WCDO Radio News

Minimum Wage employees across the state will see their paycheck go about for the New Year. New York City employees for large companies will see an increase to $15 dollars an hour; Long Island and Westchester County workers will see the minimum wage set at $12 dollars an hour, the rest of the state will see an increase to $11.10 an hour.

The state Department of Health says as of Thursday new cases of flu have been reported in 58 counties, including the five boroughs of New York City. Only Wyoming, Yates, Seneca and Hamilton counties are not reporting any cases yet. Officials say the number of people hospitalized with laboratory-confirmed flu was 363 this past week, a 41 percent increase over the previous week. So far this season more than 1,300 people have been hospitalized with the flu.

Delaware County Sheriff's Office responded to a tractor trailer accident on State Route 10 in the Town of Hamden Thursday Night. 41 year old Shaun Koch of Varysburg was driving a milk tanker on State Highway 10 when he ran off the right side of the roadway and the truck and trailer rolled over onto the side. Koch suffered a head injury and was transported to Delaware Valley Hospital in Walton where he was treated and released. A small quantity of milk was spilled as a result of the accident, the DEC Spill Response Team was notified, Koch was charged with Driving While Intoxicated with a Commercial Vehicle, moving from lane unsafely and criminal possession of a controlled substance, he was arraigned in the Town of Hamden Court and was remanded to the Delaware County Correctional Facility on $2,000 cash bail or $4,000 bond.

The Chenango United Way is in the last days of fundraising for 2019. Spokesperson Elizabeth Monaco comments:

(Elizabeth Monaco 12-28-18)

Monaco said that they are at 91% of their state goals of $419,000 for 2019.

The Fenimore Art Museum of Cooperstown announced that an exhibit of photos from famed photographer Herb Ritts will be displayed their next year. The Ritts exhibit will be on loan from the Rock & Roll hall Of Fame in Cleveland, featuring photos of David Bowie, Tina Turner, Michael Jackson, Paul McCartney, Elton John, Billy Joel, and Madonna. The exhibition opens on April 2nd & will be on display through early September.

Bethel Woods officials announced that the they will host the Music and Culture Festival, Celebrating the 50th Anniversary of the 1969 Woodstock festival at the original site. The 3 day event will be held August 16th to the 18th at Bethel Woods, the line-up & the date of the sale of the ticket will be announced shortly.

State Police & Local Law Enforcement Agencies are participating in the "Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over" campaign again this year, during the Christmas & New Year’s Holiday season. Checkpoints will be established all over the state, last year, police issued over 40,000 tickets from DWI, Speeding, Distracted driving & failing to obey the "Move Over Law", among other infractions

Governor Cuomo announced that temporary lane closures for road and bridge construction projects on New York State highways will be suspended from 6:00 AM tomorrow through 6:00 AM Wednesday, January 2nd, to ease travel during the peak New Year's travel days. Some work may continue behind concrete barriers or for emergency repairs. The New York State Thruway Authority will also continue its 48-year tradition of offering free coffee and hot tea to travelers at all 27 travel plazas along the Thruway from 11:00 PM New Year's Eve through 7:00 AM New Year's morning to promote safe and alert driving.

Delaware County Sheriff’s Deputies arrested 32-year-old Jamison Galietta of Hancock, for Tampering with Physical Evidence, Criminal Mischief, Menacing, Criminal possession of weapon, Criminal obstruction of breathing, and Harassment, following an investigation into a domestic dispute at his residence. Galietta was arraigned in the Town of Hancock Court and later remanded to the Delaware County Correctional Faculty on $25,000 cash bail pending action in the Town of Hancock Court at a later date.

The Johnson City Police Department arrested 26-year-old Tyler DeCamp of Deposit as the 5th person involved in the stabbing of 2 men at a Johnson City McDonalds last week. Decamp was charged with 2 counts of attempted murder, he is accused of stabbing both victims. He was taken into custody in Johnson City Thursday, 4 others were already charged in connection with the incident Monday. Decamp was being held at the Johnson City Police Department pending arraignment.

Vestal Police cancelled the missing vulnerable adult alert for 87 year old Charles McGlynn of Vestal late last night. Police said that McGlynn was found safe, & further details have not yet been released.

The Chenango County Sheriff's Office has an active Arrest Warrant for 42 year old Jason Barrows, who is known to frequent the Oxford and McDonough areas. Barrows has an active arrest warrant for 2nd degree Burglary, anyone with information on his whereabouts is asked to contact the Sheriff's Office at 334-2000 extension 1.

State DOT announced the opening of 2 lanes of traffic on the newly constructed section of Interstate 81 northbound and State Route 17 westbound between I-81 Exit 3 & Chenango Street in the city of Binghamton. This marks the end of the temporary, two-lanes-in-each-direction traffic pattern on I-81 southbound/Route 17 eastbound. The project is scheduled for completion in December 2020. Work in 2019 will include the construction of Front Street northbound lanes and a multi-use path.

The State DEC reported that hunters reported taking 14% more deer in the Northern Zone and 11% more in the Southern Zone, than they did last year. Preliminary figures show hunters killed nearly 109,000 deer this fall statewide, compared to just under 98,000 last year and 86,000 in 2016. Bear hunters reported taking 1,066 bears, the 2nd straight decrease since 2016.

The State Labor department released the report of local unemployment rates for November. The state rate was 3.9%, Locally, Chenango County had 3.5%, Delaware County had 3.7% & Otsego County had 3.4% unemployment in November.

Delaware County Sheriff’s Deputies arrested 32 year old Terence Ito of Walton for Criminal Contempt; he is accused of violating an order of protection that had been put in place by the Delaware County Family Court. He was arraigned in the Delhi Town Court where he was released on his own recognizance; he will reappear at a later date in the Franklin Town Court.

State Senator Jim Seward will be sworn into office on January 1st at the Foothills Performing Arts Center in Oneonta. Seward will be sworn into office for his 17th senate term. Otsego County Judge John Lambert and Otsego County Sheriff Richard Devlin will also be sworn in for new terms. Otsego County Board of Representatives Chairman David Bliss will serve as master of ceremonies. Otsego County Judge Brian Burns will administer the oath of office.

Delaware Valley Humane Society will see some added revenue next month, following a pledge by a Sidney business, Erin Insinga of the Humane Society explains:

(Erin Johnson 12-28-18)

Additional information about the fundraiser, pet adoptions or items that can be donated to the shelter can be obtained by calling 563-7780.

The 2018 Greater Binghamton Project Homecoming Job & Career fair will be held today at the Oakdale Mall in Johnson City. Representatives from 65 area employers will be on hand, the fair will run from 11:00 AM to 4:00 PM, it is sponsored by the Greater Binghamton Chamber of Commerce.

Police in Vestal announced that they are seeking 87 year old Charles McGlynn of Vestal, as a missing vulnerable adult. McGlynn suffers from dementia, and may require medical attention, he was last seen Tuesday afternoon at about 3:00PM on Hazel Drive in Vestal, he may be driving a 2009 grey Honda Civic with license plate number ANW-2161, he is described as a white male, 6'1", about 150 pounds, with white hair & a mustache, and blue eyes & wears glasses, he was wearing a white shirt, blue jeans and a blue jacket. Anyone with information is asked to call Vestal Police at 786-7600 or 911.

State Police and the American Red Cross are Co-hosting the 5th annual State Trooper Christopher Skinner Memorial Blood Drive in Kirkwood today. Trooper Skinner was intentionally run down by Almond Upton while he was conducting a traffic stop on I-81 in 2014, a blood drive has been held in Skinner's memory every year since his death. The blood drive today runs from 12:00 Noon until 6:00 PM at the 5 Mile Point Fire Company at 16 Crescent Drive in Kirkwood. The blood drive is open to the public as well as those in Law Enforcement, appointments can be made at redcrossblood.org or at 1-800-red cross.

The Delaware County Chamber of Commerce will hold their next Friday Breakfast event in Walton on January 11th. The event will run from 8:30 to 10:00 am at the Castle on the Delaware 139 Stockton Avenue in Walton. The featured speaker is Perry Dewey, Superintendent at DCMO BOCES, who will talk about on-campus, work-ready training programs for graduating high school seniors and how Delaware County's educational leaders are collaborating with the business community. More information is available at delawarecounty.org.

Former Broome County Family Court Judge Rick Miller has had a lawsuit filed against him by 2 former employees in his office of sexual harassment. The lawsuit claims that Miller subjected the employees to harassing and abusive behavior at least 50 times between 2015 and June of 2017. Miller was removed from the bench in 2016.

Now that Christmas has passed, chenango County residents may wonder how they shoudl dispose of their trees this year. Dustin Hendricks of Chenango County DPW Explains:

(Dustin Hendricks 12-26-18)

Chenango County has 3 solid waste and recycling facilities operated by the Department of Public Works, the Pharsalia Landfill, plus 2 Transfer Stations, 1 in the Town of North Norwich and the other near Brisben.

4 Deposit men have been arrested in connection with a stabbing at the McDonald's on Main Street in Johnson City on December 20th. 2 men were taken to Wilson Hospital with stab wounds, Arrested for 2 counts each of gang assault were 22 year old Dane Edwards, 33 year old Jay Moore, 24 year old Travis Dise & 31 year old Christopher Nugent of Deposit, they were taken into custody without incident and will appear in court at a later date; additional arrests are expected.

Illegally manufactured fentanyl was the driving force behind a 45.2% increase in deaths involving synthetic opioids from 2016 to 2017, according to a new report by the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. In all, there were 70,237 drug overdose deaths in 2017. Opioids were involved in 67.8%, or 47,600 of those deaths. Of those opioid-involved overdose deaths, 59.8% of them, or 28,466, were due to synthetic opioids. A separate report from the CDC's National Center for Health Statistics released earlier this month found that in 2016 fentanyl surpassed heroin as the most commonly used drug in overdose deaths in the US.

The state Department of Health announced Thursday that the flu virus is prevalent in New York state. Health care workers, who are not vaccinated, are now required to wear a surgical procedure mask around patients. The department has also launched a flu tracker that allows people to stay up-to-date about flu rates in their county. Department reps say there have been over 3,000 flu cases in the state so far this season

The Otsego County Chamber of Commerce will hold their annual State of The State Breakfast on January 2nd at the SUNY Oneonta Otsego Grille in the Morris Conference Center. The event will begin at 8:30, State Senator Jim Seward & Oneonta Mayor Gary Herzig will be among the guest speakers.

The City of Oneonta Department of Public Service will be replacing a water main valve located on West Ann Street today. Work is to take place starting at 8am with water outages to begin at 9am. Residents on West Ann, Baker, London, Wilcox, and River Street (between Ann and Wilcox) will be without water for the duration of the project. West Ann St will be closed to traffic for the duration of work. Drivers on West Ann Street are advised to move vehicles from driveways prior to 8am. More information is available at 432-2100

Chenango County Sheriff department arrested 39 year old Joseph Horton following a sealed indictment handed down by a Chenango County Grand Jury. On April 4th, 2018 the Chenango County Sheriff’s Office conducted an investigation into a burglary at the Unadilla Motocross Track in the Town of Columbus, where vehicles, generators, and several pieces of equipment were stolen. The investigation and physical evidence recovery led to the sealed indictment and arrest of Horton, who was located at the Chenango County Correctional Facility where he was being held on separate charges, he is scheduled to be arraigned in Chenango County Court at a later date.

Governor Cuomo signed legislation to establish a sexual assault survivors' bill of rights. The new law requires the Department of Health, in consultation with the Division of Criminal Justice Services, the Office of Victim Services, to establish a sexual assault survivors' bill of rights. Notifying victims of their legal rights will help ensure survivors request and receive the information they need to navigate complicated medical and criminal justice systems.

State Police & Local Law Enforcement Agencies are participating in the "Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over" campaign again this year, during the Christmas & New Year’s Holiday season. Checkpoints will be established all over the state, last year, police issued over 40,000 tickets from DWI, Speeding, Distracted driving & failing to obey the "Move Over Law", among other infractions

Governor Cuomo announced $4.2 million for snowmobile trail maintenance and grooming across New York State and designated the weekend of January 25-27 as a free snowmobiling weekend for all out-of-state and Canadian snowmobilers. During this promotional weekend, the requirement to register in New York is waived for properly registered and insured out-of-state snowmobiling enthusiasts wishing to explore New York's 10,400 miles of snowmobile trails. The trail grants support 10,400 miles of designated trails across the state for snowmobilers, the program is funded by snowmobile registration fees collected by the DMV.

Delaware County Sheriff's Deputies responded Wednesday to an accident on State Highway 28 in the Town of Middletown. 46 year old Luke Dougherty of Bovina hit an icy patch on the roadway and lost control of his vehicle, crossed into the southbound lane and struck an on-coming Delaware County Public Health vehicle driven by 50 year old Melissa Thomas of Masonville. The Dougherty vehicle then continued off the roadway where it struck and damaged an unoccupied, parked vehicle and other equipment parked in a driveway. Dougherty and Thomas were transported to O’Connor Hospital in Delhi; Dougherty was ticketed for failure to keep right and will appear in the Town of Middletown Court at a later date.

The New York State Appellate Court denied the appeal of John Guzy of Bainbridge, for the road rage murder of 26 year old Derek Prindle of Afton, in a 2014 road rage incident on State Route 7 between Sidney & Bainbridge. Guzy was sentenced to 40 years to life in prison, which has been upheld by Thursday’s court decision.

Governor Cuomo today announced that temporary lane closures for road and bridge construction projects on New York State highways will be suspended during peak holiday travel times over the next two weekends. All road construction work behind temporary lane closures stopped earlier this morning & will remain in effect until 6:00 AM Wednesday Morning. Construction will also be suspended from 6:00 AM Saturday, December 29th through 6:00 AM Wednesday, January 2nd. Some work may continue behind concrete barriers or for emergency repairs.

State DOT Officials announced the completion of the project to pave and repair a portion of State Route 10 in the town of Walton. The 1-mile project which stretched from a parking area outside the village of Walton and proceeds east, Construction addressed a 2,000-foot-long curve by increasing the road elevation on the outside of the curve, which reduces the chance of vehicles drifting over the center line and causing crashes & the slope near the parking area was flattened, creating better sight distance for cars pulling out of the lot.

State Senator Fred Akshar released the results of a recent online survey posted gauging constituents on legislation that would require anyone applying for or renewing a pistol permit license to consent to having their social media accounts and search engine history of the past 1-3 years reviewed and investigated by police as part of the mandatory background check. Within the 52nd Senate District, 79% of respondents opposed the proposal, 21% supported it; Outside of the 52nd Senate District, New York respondents opposed the measure 97% to 3%. Akshar plans on introducing or cosponsoring several bills to help address gun violence and mental health issues that are connected to the recent mass shooting tragedies.

State Senator Jim Seward announced that he has been appointed by State Senate Republican Leader John Flanagan to serve as the ranking member of the Senate Finance Committee. The Senate Finance Committee is the second most influential panel in the senate – tasked with conducting public hearings on the governor's budget proposal and guiding development of the final plan. In addition, the finance committee is responsible for reviewing nominations sent by the governor for appointments, and moving the nominations to the full senate.

State Police & Local Law Enforcement Agencies are participating in the "Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over" campaign again this year, during the Christmas & New Year’s Holiday season. Checkpoints will be established all over the state, last year, police issued over 40,000 tickets from DWI, Speeding, Distracted driving & failing to obey the "Move Over Law", among other infractions

The 27th Annual Sidney Alumni Basketball Association “Alumni Night’ will be held tonight at the Sidney High School gym. Proceeds to the event go to fund the Association’s Scholarship each June for a graduating Sidney basketball player. Older players are invited to play in the 6:00 pm opener, the “young guns” game will follow at about 7:15. More information is available at 643-5728, or at the Sidney Alumni Basketball Facebook page.

New York State’s seasonally adjusted unemployment rate fell to 3.9% in November 2018, reaching its lowest level since these records began in 1976, according to preliminary figures released today by the State Department of Labor. The number of unemployed New Yorkers fell in November, from 387,500 to 379,400, its lowest level since August 1988. In addition, New York State’s private sector job count rose by 5,200, or 0.1%, to 8,231,100 in November 2018, a new, all-time high.

New York's population continues to decline faster than any other state, according to new statistics released by the U.S. Census Bureau. The report found New York was just 1 of 9 states to see a decrease in population, losing an estimated 48,510 residents between July 1, 2017, and July 1, 2018. Illinois saw the second largest population loss, followed by West Virginia, Louisiana, Hawaii, Mississippi, Alaska, Connecticut and Wyoming. New York's over 19.4 million populations is the 4th highest behind California, Texas and Florida.

Attorney General Barbara Underwood today announced the settlement of a lawsuit against FedEx that will distribute $2 million to an estimated 500 qualifying drivers who delivered packages. The Attorney General’s office filed the lawsuit back in October 2010, alleging that the drivers had been unlawfully misclassified as independent contractors and was, in fact, employees. The Attorney General's action sought restitution for violations of New York Labor Law, including unpaid overtime and unlawful deductions from wages. Qualifying drivers will be sent notice by the claims administrator and be required to submit a claim form in order to qualify for payment from the settlement fund.

State Police arrested 3 people for DWI after a 1 car crash in the town of Smyrna last Sunday. Troopers were dispatched to State Highway 80 in the town of Smyrna, when they arrived they found an unoccupied vehicle they observed another vehicle parked next to the vehicle that had crashed but it took off as soon as troopers approached. Troopers caught up to that vehicle & they accuse the driver, 43 year old Raymond Haitian Jr of Georgetown of driving while Intoxicated. The investigation revealed that 34 year old Kyle Dulian of Tonawanda was operating the original vehicle that had crashed and was also one of the occupants in Haitian's vehicle. Dulian was arrested for DWI. While troopers were still on scene, 34 year old Alicia Martin of Georgetown arrived looking for her friend, she was also arrested for DWI. All 3 will appear in court in January to answer to the charges.

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Baltimore District is in the process of updating the Master Plan for the East Sidney Lake Project. THE Army Core of Engineers is preparing an environmental assessment in accordance with the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 to assess the impact of the Master Plan Revision to the human and natural environment. A public review meeting will be held after the initial public comment period, ending January 11, 2019, to allow opportunity for the public to submit ideas, comments, and feedback on the Draft Master Plan and Draft Environmental Assessment, the public meeting is planned for some time in April 2019. All updates regarding the Master Plan Update and public meetings may be found at nab.usace.army.mil/ESL-Master-Plan-Revision/.

Afton area businesses & The Afton Girl Scouts are teaming up this holiday season to put together Military care Packages for soldiers overseas. Scout leader Lora Vanderheide explains;

(Lora Vanderheide 12-20-18)

Vanderheide said that the collections will be accepted through December 24th & will be shipped out the following week. More information is available at 639-1700.

The Oneonta Department of Public Service will be replacing a water main valve located on Ann Street today, starting at 8:00 AM, Water outages will begin at 9:00 AM. Residents on Ann Street, West Ann, Meckley Ave, Baker Street, and Wilcox Ave will be without water for the duration of the project. River Street residents from Meckley to Wilcox Ave will also experience a water outage during work. Parking on the street will not be permitted, and the street will be closed to traffic for the duration of work. More information is available at 432-2100.

State Police released the names of the people involved in a 2-car Head-On crash in the Town of Columbus Saturday. 27 year old Bradley Prosser of Sherburne was the driver of the first vehicle that crossed into the opposing lane and crashed head on into a 2nd vehicle. Prosser was pronounced dead at the scene, he had a .23 BAC according to the autopsy report. Prosser’s passenger, 26 year old Tasha Carney of Edmeston suffered minor injuries from the crash. The driver of the 2nd vehicle was 46 year old Shannon Donnelly-Travis of Schuyler Lake; she was airlifted to Upstate Medical Center in Syracuse, for a fractured arm and leg.

State Senator Fred Akshar continued the 2nd year of his "Akshar's All-Stars" student recognition program on Tuesday by recognizing students at 4 school districts. At the Harpursville High School, Akshar recognized senior Colin LaDue for his leadership, dedication and many contributions to his school and community. At the Afton High School, Akshar recognized sophomore Logan Ives for her selfless devotion to charity and giving back to others in need. At Bainbridge-Guilford High School, Akshar recognized senior Tannar Cliffe for his kindness and dependability both in and out of school. At DCMO BOCES in Norwich, Akshar recognized senior Destin Foley for his energy and dedication to both his academic studies and to helping others in the classroom.

Firefighters from Sherburne & 2 other local departments responded to a fire at Crandall's Auto on Blanding Road in Sherburne last night at about 8:30 PM. No injuries were reported, the building was completely destroyed; investigators are trying to determine how that fire started.

The Chenango Arts Council's 2019 Grants for Teachers application deadline has been extended until this Friday, December 21st. The Program provides up to $500 to K-12 teachers in Chenango County who find innovative ways to integrate the arts into the regular school curriculum through projects that are not covered by the school budget. Teachers currently employed by a public or private school in Chenango County are eligible to apply; more information is available at chenangoarts.org/grants/grants-for-teachers. Awards will be made in February 2019.

A Free Christmas Dinner will be available in Sidney this year on Christmas Day at the Sidney Fire Station, organizer Gene Schmidt comments:

(Gene Schmidt 12-19-18)

More information about the free Christmas day Dinner is available at 607-610-4030; this year will be the 6th year that Schmidt & his family have offered the free Christmas dinner.

Lieutenant Governor Kathy Hochul will tour several area business today. Hochul will Tour Amphenol Aerospace in Sidney this morning at 9:15, Corning Incorporated in Oneonta, at 10:30, and then at 1:30 this afternoon she will tour Chobani in New Berlin.

Otsego County Chamber of Commerce will host the state Mandated Anti-Harassment Policies and Sexual Harassment Training today, from 8:30 to 10:00 AM. New York State mandates ALL employers to adopt a sexual harassment prevention policy as well as to train ALL employees on sexual harassment prevention. The Seminar will be held at the Otsego County Chamber/Otsego Now Offices at 189 Main Street on the 5th floor, in Oneonta.

Governor Cuomo announced his agenda for the 1st 100 days of 2019 on Monday. Among the items on his agenda: adopting a Progressive Tax System, Cut Middle Class Taxes, Protecting Affordable Health Care, Gender Equality, Combat Gun Violence, ensure Clean, Safe Drinking Water, Pass the Child Victims Act & Legalize Adult Use of Recreational Marijuana.

Delaware County Sheriff’s Deputies arrested 40 year old Brenna Talbot of Walton for Aggravated Unlicensed Operation 3rd degree following a traffic stop on County Highway 21 in the Town of Franklin. Talbot was additionally charged with unlicensed operator, operating without a headlight. She was released on tickets returnable to Franklin Town Court at a later date.

State Police continue to investigate tips that will help locate the person or persons responsible for throwing 2 beagle mix dogs out of a moving vehicle on Wednesday, December 12th on I-81 in Marathon. Several local, state and national animal welfare agencies and private donors are now offering a total of $16, 500 reward leading to the conviction of the person(s) responsible after the case has gained national attention. The following agencies have contributed: the Animal Legal Defense Fund $10,000, People for Ethical Treatment of Animals $5,000, the New York State Humane Association $1,000 and a private donation $500. Anyone with information about the suspect(s) is asked to call SP Homer at (607)749-1614.

Governor Cuomo today announced that more than $763 million in economic and community development funding has been awarded through Round 8 of the Regional Economic Development Council initiative. Locally, the Southern Tier RDC, which covers Delaware & Broome Counties, will get 65.4 Million dollars for various projects, Central New York, which includes Chenango County, receives 88.2 million dollars, and the Mohawk Valley region, which includes Otsego County, receives in 85.4 Million dollars.

NY State of Health announced that enrollment reached 4.7 million at close of business on December 15th, the deadline for January 1st 2019 coverage. Enrollment volumes in Qualified Health Plans and the Essential Plan outpaced last year’s levels with over 83,000 more people enrolled compared to last year.

In 2018, The Raymond Corporation contributed to over 150 nonprofit and educational organizations with monetary contributions, forklift donations and voluntary participation. Raymond gave food donations to the local food pantries, supported causes ranging from cancer awareness, veterans rehabilitation and animal rescue, & Raymond and its employees supported such programs as the American Red Cross, Habitat for Humanity, Breast Cancer Awareness, & Big Brothers and Big Sisters. More information is available at raymondcorp.com.

Charter Spectrum will pay a record $174 million and refund customers in New York $62 million in a settlement over claims it defrauded internet subscribers. The settlement announced Tuesday by the State Attorney General's Office is the largest consumer payment by an internet provider in U.S. history. Charter Spectrum has agreed to provide some premium cable channels for free to customers as part of the deal, customers will each receive between $75 and $150, and they will also get streaming services and premium channels, with a retail value of over $100 million, at no charge for about 2.2 million active subscribers.

The Oneonta Common Council will hold their next regular meeting this evening at 7:00 PM at City Hall. A Public hearing will be held regarding Sewers another will be held regarding fire prevention, the meeting is open to the public.

Emergency crews responded to a Tractor Trailer fire at about 12:00 Noon today. The fire was knocked down quickly & the westbound lanes of I-88 were re-opned quickly, WCDO news will have further details as they become available.

The Binghamton Devils donated over six barrels of non-perishable food to CHOW today with the help of team captain, Kevin Rooney. The food was collected from fans during the Put the Biscuit in the Basket food drive from November 28 to December 15, 2018. Totaling 1,415 pounds, the provisions will help feed Broome County families in need this holiday season.

Senator Fred Akshar will continue the second year of his district-wide "Akshar's All-Stars" student recognition program on Tuesday by recognizing students at one Broome County school and three Chenango County schools. Each month, Senator Akshar recognizes local students selected by their school districts in the 52nd Senate District who have shown great leadership, compassion, school spirit or improvement amongst their peers. Senator Akshar will make presentations starting at 8:00 AM at the Harpursville High School, then at 9:00 AM at Afton High School, 11:00 AM at Bainbridge-Guilford High School and and at 1:15 pm at the DCMO BOCES Campus in Norwich.

The Chenango County Sheriff’s Office announced the arrests of 34 year old Corey Weldman & 22 year old Cheyenne Moore following the execution of a search warrant at 93 East Main Street in Norwich. Police seized crystal meth, cocaine, marijuana, MDMA, suboxone, a loaded handgun and more than $35,000 in cash. Weldman and Moore were charged with Criminal possession of a controlled substance & Criminal possession of drug paraphernalia, more charges are pending.

A Delaware County Grand Jury handed down Sealed Indictments Thursday afternoon, relating to 3 separate drug trafficking investigations in Grand Gorge, Roxbury and Delhi. Arrested were Ramar Hassell & Valerie Alexander of Delhi, for allegedly selling Heroin in the Village of Delhi, also William Effner of Delhi was indicted for possession of packaged heroin plus marijuana, a scale and drug packaging paraphernalia. Deputies also arrested Lorelei Hayden of Grand Gorge for allegedly selling Oxycodone and Hydrocodone, and Michael Johnson of Roxbury for allegedly selling Suboxone, all 5 were arraigned in Delaware County Court Friday, and they were all remanded to the Delaware County Jail pending future court action.

Voters in the Unadilla Valley School District approved of the 10 million dollar capital improvement project last week. The project calls for various improvements to school buildings & the athletic field, with the work covered by a combination of State Aid & the district's Capital Reserve Fund.

State Police & Local law Enforcement agencies or participating in the "Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over" campaign again this year, during the Christmas & New Year’s Holiday season. Checkpoints will be established all over the state, last year, police issued over 40,000 tickets from DWI, Speeding, Distracted driving & failing to obey the "Move Over Law", among other infractions

The Government Justice Center filed a lawsuit Friday challenging the legality of a panel's vote last week to raise New York State Lawmakers' pay for the first time in 20 years. The group claims pay raises must be voted on by the state Senate and Assembly themselves. The 63% proposed increase will be phased in over 3 years, from $79,500 a year to $130,000. Some Lawmakers oppose the plan because it would limit how much money they could make outside of their salary as lawmakers.

The Delaware County Chamber of Commerce, the United Way of Delaware & Otsego Counties, Delaware Opportunities, and the Delaware County business community joined forces to participate in the 2018 Toys for Tots campaign. 420 toys, 37 books and 235 stocking stuffers were collected over a 3 week period; the toys were delivered to Delaware Opportunities in Hamden on Friday and will be distributed to Delaware County families this week in time for Christmas.

Congressman Elect Anthony Brindisi is hosting ‘Thank You Celebrations' today, to show appreciation to supporters and volunteers of his campaign. Thank-you events have also been held in Binghamton, Cortland, and Utica. The Congressman-Elect will be present at a party this afternoon & this evening at the Bohemian Moon at 103 East Main Street in Norwich.

State Troopers closed down Chenango County Road 25 in the town of Columbus following a fatal car crash. State Police responded to a head-on collision at approximately 1:34 AM Saturday, where a 27-year-old male from Sherburne, crossed into oncoming traffic, he was pronounced dead at the scene. His passenger, a 26-year-old female of Edmeston sustained minor injuries; she was transported to Bassett Hospital in Cooperstown. The operator of the 2nd vehicle, a 46-year-old female of Schuyler Lake was airlifted to Upstate Medical Center, after she sustained severe injuries. Troop C’s Collision Reconstruction Unit continues to investigate the crash.

Oneonta Police arrested 28 year old David Thomas of Oneonta for attempted Murder, Assault and Strangulation, following a domestic dispute. Police accuse Thomas of twisting the unidentified woman's neck “in a violent manner,” causing extensive damage, she was transported to Fox Hospital & was transferred to Bassett Hospital in Cooperstown where she required surgery.

State Police are seeking the public’s assistance locating the people responsible for throwing 2 dogs out of an SUV on I-81 Wednesday. Troopers patrolling I-81 in the Whitney Point area spotted a tractor trailer parked in the left lane, Wednesday morning, they observed the truck driver carrying one badly injured dog and another following behind him. A State Police K9 handler bandaged the injured dog to stop bleeding, the Broome County Humane Society was contacted and took possession of the dogs. The truck driver observed a Dodge Durango SUV slow down, roll down their rear window and throw the dogs out of the window. Anyone with information is asked to call State Police at 749-1614.

The Salvation Army Empire State Division provided nearly 4 million meals to individuals and families who needed it most, through last year’s Annual Red Kettle Campaign. This year, with just 10 ringing days left in this year’s campaign, the kettles are trending short of the statewide goal. Volunteer bell ringers are needed throughout The Salvation Army's 48-county region. An hour of bellringing yields enough money in the kettle to provide thirteen meals. Anyone interested in ringing the bell is invited to visit: http://bit.ly/beabellringer to sign up.

The New York State Department of Health is advising parents/guardians, caregivers and health care providers to be aware of the signs and symptoms of enterovirus EV-D68, which has now been confirmed in 39 children in New York State. EV-D68 can cause mild to severe respiratory illness, or no symptoms at all. EV-D68 infection most commonly results in mild symptoms such as runny nose, sneezing, cough, body aches and muscle aches. Severe symptoms, may include wheezing and difficulty breathing. Recent cases in NYS have been confirmed among individuals who reside in Western and Central New York, the Capital Region and Long Island, and specimens have been received from other regions for specialized testing at Wadsworth. More information about enterovirus EV-D68 can be found cdc.gov.

Tickets are still available for this Sunday's 2 performances of "The King & I" at the Forum Theater in Binghamton. Shows will begin at 3:00 PM & &;30 PM Sunday, Tickets are available through Ticketmaster.com.

A.M. NEWS Friday 12-15-18

18 Year Old Gunnar Hassard of Oneonta has been arrested and charged with a hate crime after allegedly posting pro-Nazi posters around the SUNY Purchase campus, where he was a freshman. Hassard is accused of hanging 16 posters containing Nazi imagery, swastikas and images of Adolph Hitler; he was arraigned in Harrison Town Court yesterday and charged with Aggravated Harassment in the First Degree, a class E felony.

The Department of Environmental Protection announced plans to build a $34 million hydroelectric facility at Cannonsville Reservoir, which should produce enough electricity to power more than 3,500 homes each year. DEP officials announced that they will host 2 public meetings today, 1 at 9:00 AM at the Deposit State Theater, at 148 Front Street in Deposit & another at 12:30 PM at the Upper Delaware Council office, 211 Bridge Street in Narrowsburg. More information is available at nyc.gov.

The Sidney American Legion will host their Annual Children's Christmas Party tomorrow, spokesman Larry Halbert explains:

(Larry Halbert 12-14-18)

The event will run from 12:00 Noon until 1:30 PM at the American legion tomorrow at 22 Union Street in Sidney.

Officials with Dick’s Sporting Goods Open announced that Keith Urban will be the concert performer on August 16th in Endicott. Tickets for that show will be available today through Ticketmaster.com.

The American Red Cross is hosting a blood drive in Sidney Saturday, from 8:00 AM to 1:00 PM at the Sidney Elks Lodge, at 104 River Street. Blood donors of all blood types, especially type O, are needed; appointment can be made at RedCrossBlood.org or by calling 1-800-RED CROSS.

The River Valley News group of Pennsylvania announced that they will cease operating the Tri Town News, The Chenango American, as well as weekly newspapers in Oxford & Whitney point. Tri Town New editor Allison Collins comments:

(Allison Collins 12-13-18)

Collins said that the Tri Town News had its start in 1882 as the Sidney Record; its last issue will come out on December 21st.

The Chobani Foundation announced the recipients of Their 1st Community Impact Fund, which will provide $100,000 in grant funds to 4 beneficiaries locally. The Sidney Central School District was awarded $21,000, to incorporate a food truck into its nutritional education program. The Catskill Development Foundation was awarded $28,150 for a food and agricultural entrepreneur training program at Delaware County FoodWorks+, The Oxford Academy and Central School District was granted $30,000 to fund the salaries of 25 students working for local businesses in the 10-month Career Pathways Program, Cornell Cooperative Extension of Madison County received $20,850 to provide marketing assistance for farmers and managers of farmers markets looking to expand their businesses. The Chobani Foundation partnered with the Community Foundation for South Central New York to facilitate the grant selection process; more information is available at chobani.com/impact/chobanifoundation.

Governor Cuomo’s office announced on Tuesday of their goal to create a program for regulated marijuana use next year. The governor’s office hosted the listening sessions throughout September and October to gauge community appetite for legalizing marijuana, A study by the New York City Comptroller’s office estimated that revenues from taxes on regulated marijuana sales could bring in $3.1 billion dollars for the state. In Colorado, marijuana retailers made $1.5 billion last year and collected $247 million in taxes.

New York Farm Bureau has released its annual "Circle of Friends," naming 160 New York State Legislators to the distinguished list. The award is an indication of the individual lawmaker's support of New York agriculture and Farm Bureau. The "Circle of Friends" honor is based upon each legislator's voting record on issues of agricultural importance as well as other evidence of legislative support, including sponsorship of bills that New York Farm Bureau has either supported or opposed during the most recent legislative session, State Senators Fred Akshar, Jim Seward & John Bonacic plus Assembly members Cliff Crouch, Bill Magee, Donna Lupardo & Gary Finch were all named to the Farm Bureaus “Circle of Friends" again this year.

Governor Andrew Cuomo's office has announced the start of a child care availability task force. The group is comprised of representatives from the child care provider community, the business community, unions that represent child care providers, representatives from several state agencies and local departments of social services will develop recommendations to make quality, affordable child care accessible across the state. The task force met for the first time on Wednesday.

Voters in the Unadilla Valley School district have until 8:00 tonight to vote on the district's proposed 10 million dollar capital improvement project. Voting is being held at the District Office Lobby.

The Food and Drug Administration announced today that Del Monte Foods has recalled more than 64,000 cases of "Fiesta Corn" seasoned with red and green peppers. So far there had been no reports of illness, Del Monte determined the cans had not been properly sterilized, leading to the risk of spoilage. The corn was in 15.25-ounce cans with the UPC number printed on the label: 24000 02770, it can be returned to the point of purchase for a refund or exchange, more information is available by calling Del Monte Foods at 800-779-7035.

A.M. NEWS Thursday 12-13-18

State Police have located James Sitts, who was wanted on an arrest warrant out of the town of Oneonta Court for 2 counts of Grand Larceny. Sitts was located and arrested by City of Oneonta Police Officers on December 8, He was later transferred to the custody of State Police and was arraigned in the town of Oneonta Court where he was remanded to the Otsego Jail with no bail. His next court date is January 3rd.

The American Red Cross is hosting 2 area Blood Drives today, 1 in Oneonta from 1:00 to 6:00 PM at the Foothills Performing Arts Center, at 24 Market Street, and another in Walton from 12:00 Noon until 5:00 PM at the United Presbyterian Church, at 58 East Street Blood donors of all blood types, especially type O, appointments can be made at RedCrossBlood.org or by calling 1-800-RED CROSS

The Binghamton Rumble Ponies named Kevin Boles as the team's manager for the 2019 season. Boles joins the New York Mets organization after spending the last eleven seasons managing in the Boston Red Sox system.

The number of Animal Cruelty cases or cases of animal hoarding have spiked recently in the Southern Tier, which creates a difficult situation for area Shelters. Erin Insinga of the Delaware Valley Humane Society told WCDO News that if you know of those situations, the first call is to your local sheriff's department:

(Erin Insinga 12-12-18)

Insinga said that the animals are removed by law enforcement, they get checked by vets and can then be adopted following a brief process, and more information is available at 563-7780.

A Free Christmas Dinner will be available in Sidney this year on Christmas Day at the Sidney Fire Station, organizer Gene Schmidt said that donations & volunteers are needed:

(Gene Schmidt 12-12-18)

Schmidt said that he can be reached at 607-610-4030. This year will be the 6th year that Schmidt & his family have offered the free Christmas dinner.

Almond Upton of Florida has died in Prison, where he was serving time for the murder of State Trooper Christopher Skinner on I-81 In Broome County in May of 2014. Upton was serving his sentence in the Clinton Correctional Facility in Dannemora. Upton claimed he was in a manic state at the time he intentionally ran over Trooper Skinner, who was ocnducting an unrealted traffic stop, Upton was found guilty & was sentecned to life in prison, he died Sunday & the cause of death has not yet been released.

The Department of Environmental Protection announced plans to build a $34 million hydroelectric facility at Cannonsville Reservoir, which should produce enough electricity to power more than 3,500 homes each year. DEP officials announced that they will host 2 public meetings on Friday, one at 9:00 AM at the Deposit State Theater, at 148 Front Street in Deposit, & at 12:30 PM at the Upper Delaware Council office, 211 Bridge Street in Narrowsburg. More information is available at nyc.gov.

Residents in South New Berlin are voting today on a proposed $1.1 million project to purchase property and construct a new fire department building. Voting will be held from 12:00 Noon until 9:00 PM at the South New Berlin Firehouse.

Voters in the Unadilla Valley School District will vote Thursday on a capital improvement project involving heating, parking lots, roof replacement, and auditorium improvements, among many other projects. The project would be paid for through a Capital Reserve Fund & State Aid, the $10 million dollar project vote will be held from 12:00 Noon to 8:00 PM in the District Office lobby Thursday.

Delaware County Sheriff’s Deputies arrested 21 year old Rebecca Kole of Delancey, for moving from a lane unsafely, DWI, and other charges, following an investigation into a Motor Vehicle accident in the Town of Walton. Kole was later released on traffic tickets and is scheduled to appear at Walton Town Court at a later date to answer the charges.

The City of Oneonta and the Otsego County Conservation Association will be co-sponsoring a talk on the emerald ash borer on today, at 6:30pm. The insect is highly destructive; the first one was discovered in the town of Unadilla in 2014. The free talk will take place at the Otsego County Chamber of Commerce, 189 Main Street, Suite 500; it is free and open to the public. More information is available by calling OCCA at 282-4087.

The City of Oneonta has listed a number of items available for public auction. The items can be viewed & bidded on at publicsurplus.com/sms/oneonta,ny

The State Office of Alcoholism and Substance Abuse Services announced new actions to increase the availability and awareness of problem gambling services, which includes the opening of 2 new Problem Gambling Resource Centers which will serve as central hubs for the public to access prevention, treatment and recovery support services.  New Yorkers struggling with an addiction, or whose loved ones are struggling, can find help and hope by calling the state’ stoll-free, 24-hour, 7-day-a-week HOPEline at 1-877-8-HOPENY (1-877-846-7369) or at oasas.ny.gov/gambling.

Governor Cuomo today announced more than 520 new jobs will be created through the latest round of Recharge NY power allocations. Recharge NY supports new and existing partnerships with qualifying businesses and non-profit organizations with low-cost New York Power Authority power in exchange for commitments to retain or create jobs statewide.  Locally, in the Southern Tier, 60 jobs will be retained & 46 new ones will be created.

Delaware County Sheriff’s Office arrested 44-year-old DeannaO’Connor of the Village of Walton, for 1 count of Grand Larceny.  O’Connor allegedly withheld property or payment for that property to Liberty Mutual Insurance Company, following a reported burglary in Walton and a subsequent insurance claim.  O’Connor was issued an appearance ticket returnable to the Village of Walton Court at a later date.

Firefighters from a dozen area companies responded to a blaze on Porter Hollow Road in Port Crane at about 8:00 PM Sunday. Firefighters were on the scene for about 4 ½ hours, No injuries were reported , and the unidentified family of 4 were left homeless.

Sheriff Cutting reports on December 6th, 2018 the Chenango County Sheriff’s Office arrested an inmate for assaulting a Corrections Officer. Members of the Detectives Division arrested Michael J. Perry, age 42 who was incarcerated on a separate charge. It is alleged that Perry assaulted a Corrections Officer in an attempt to get to another inmate within the facility. Perry was processed for Assault in the Second Degree and arraigned in the Town of Norwich Court. He was remanded back to the Chenango County Correctional Facility.

Firefighters from Franklin, Oneonta, West Oneonta, Otego, Sidney, SIdney Center, Treadwell & Wells Bridge responded early this morning to a fire at 161 HODGE ROAD in the town of Franklin. The fire was called in at about 12:10 AM; The home was destroyed in the blaze, the cause of the fire is under investigation.

SFCU announced that James Reynolds will replace Jim Doig as the President & CEO of SFCU shortly, both talked to WCDO News about the change in leadership:

(Reynolds/ Doig 12-10-18)

Doig announced his retirement recently after serving for 22 years as the President & CEO of SFCU.

Lee Smith and Harold Baines have been elected to the National Baseball Hall of Fame by the Today’s Game Era Committee, it was announced today on MLB Network. The Today’s Game Era Committee considered a ballot of six former players, 3 former managers and 1 former executive whose contributions to the game were most significant from 1988 through the present. The Today’s Game Era Committee held meetings today in Las Vegas, site of Baseball’s Winter Meetings. Smith and Baines will be joined in the Hall of Fame Class of 2019 by any electees who emerge from the Baseball Writers’ Association of America voting, which will be announced on Tuesday, January 22nd.

Retiring State Senator John Bonacic announced that he will be closing his Delhi Office on Friday December 21st. anyone needing to contact Senator Bonacic can call the Middletown Office at 845-344-3311 until the end of the year. Bonacic decided to retire this year after serving for decades in both the State Assembly & State Senate.

State Police arrested 30 year old Dustin Freeman of Morris after he allegedly threatened a victim with a knife and sexually assaulted the victim in the New Berlin area. Freeman was charged with 1st degree Rape, Criminal Sexual Act and Unlawful Imprisonment, after Troopers located Freeman in the city of Rome, where he fled on foot. He was taken into custody & was transported to Norwich where he was processed and later arraigned in the town of Norwich Court where he was remanded to the Chenango County Jail without bail. An order of protection was also issued by the judge to the victim. The investigation is still on-going.

A Town of Norwich resident was arrested by the Chenango County Sheriff’s Office for Endangering the Welfare of a Child and Harassment. Deputies arrested 61 year old Larry Conant after an incident that occurred on a Norwich Central School bus in the town of Guilford. Conant, was a school bus aid, he allegedly used unnecessary force on a 7 year old child. Conant was released on an appearance ticket for a later date.

A Town of Norwich resident was arrested by the Chenango County Sheriff’s Office for Criminal Contempt. Deputies arrested 20 year old Jeremy Thomas After responding to a complaint at a business in the Town of Norwich it was found that Thomas violated an order of protection. Thomas was processed and released on an appearance ticket. Thomas is to appear in the Town of Norwich Court at a later date.

The American Red Cross is hosting a Blood Drive in Sidney today from 2:30 p.m. - 6:30 pm, at the A.O. Fox Tri-Town Campus. Blood donors of all blood types, especially type O, and platelet donors are urged to make an appointment to donate at RedCrossBlood.org or by calling 1-800-RED CROSS

Luis Rojas will join the New York Mets Major League coaching staff for the 2019 season, filling the new position of Quality Control Coach. Rojas served as the Binghamton Rumble Ponies manager for two seasons, The Mets have yet to name a replacement for Rojas in Binghamton. The Rumble Ponies will start their 2019 home schedule at NYSEG Stadium on April 11, 2019 against the Erie Sea Wolves.

P.M. NEWS FRIDAY 12-7-18

State police are asking for the public's help in locating 39 year old James Sitts of Oneonta, who is wanted in connection with a grand larceny investigation. Sitts is described as a white male, 5 feet 10 inches tall, 165 pounds with brown hair, blue eyes and a beard, he has several distinctive tattoos on his neck and right arm, his last known address was in the Lantern Hill Trailer Park in Oneonta. Anyone with information is asked to call state police at (607) 561-7400.

Federal law Enforcement officials arrested 41 year old Justin Hobbie of Springfield, on child pornography charges. Hobbie was working as a physical education teacher & was formerly a girls’ soccer coach in the Cooperstown School District. District officials alerted parents of the arrest this morning, they did not believe that any incident involving a Cooperstown Student occurred, the investigation is continuing.

60 year old Lynn Beilby of South New Berlin has been charged with animal abuse, for allegedly torturing an animal and failing to provide sustenance to an animal. Beilby is scheduled to appear in the Town of Morris Court on January 14th to answer to the charges.

The Delaware County Historical Association will host its inaugural Christmas Fair on Saturday from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM. The event is free & open to the public, more information is available at 746-3849 or e-mail dcha@delhi.net

The Village of Franklin will hold their annual Christmas celebration tomorrow. Events will include a Library Book Sale, Grandma’s Pantry will be open from 11:00 to 3:00 at the Methodist Church, and the annual Holiday Market will run from 12:00 to 4:00 at the Fire House, pictures with Santa Claus will begin at 6:00 PM, also at the Fire House.

The Bainbridge Chamber of Commerce announces a variety of events to be held Saturday. The highlight will be a parade starting at 5:00 PM, there will also be a library open house from 4:00 to 7:00 PM, and carolers, and after the parade be sure to go to the Episcopal Church (with red doors) for your photos with Santa.

State Police arrested 37 year old Michael Collins of Butternuts, for Unlawful Imprisonment, Criminal Obstruction of Breathing and Criminal Mischief, after Troopers were dispatched to a residence on Wilbur Hill Road in the town of Butternuts for a domestic dispute. After an investigation, troopers determined that Collins and a victim were involved in an argument that turned physical, where Collins is accused of choking, taking a phone away when the victim attempted to call for help and not allowing the victim to leave. Collins was arraigned in the town of Butternuts Court where he was released on his own recognizance. The judge issued an order of protection to the victim.

The American Red Cross is facing a severe blood shortage and they are hosting 3 blood drives today. In Oneonta, a blood drive is being held at SUNY Oneonta from 12:00 Noon until 5:00 PM, one is being held in Cooperstown from 1:00 to 6:00 PM at the Clark's Sports Center, & another is being held in Morris from 1:00 to 6:00 PM at the Zion Episcopal Church on Main Street. Blood donors of all blood types, especially type O, and platelet donors are urged to make an appointment to donate at RedCrossBlood.org or by calling 1-800-RED CROSS

The Unadilla Rotary Club & the Unadilla Chamber of Commerce will be presenting the Annual Santa Saturday in Unadilla, with Events being held at the Bauer Community Center at 246 Main Street, from 1:30 to 4:00 pm. Santa will arrive by Fire Truck at 3:00 pm. The parade will form at 2:30 on Sperry Street, off Clifton Street and proceed down Main Street to the Community Center. The Unadilla Rotary Club will have their annual basket raffle fundraiser with ticket winners announced. The Unadilla Public Library will be showing Classic Christmas Movies.

Delaware & Ulster Rail Road is participating in the 2018 Delaware County Toys for Tots campaign and passengers can ride the Silver Sleigh on Sunday, in exchange for a new, unwrapped toy that will be delivered to a Delaware County child in time for Christmas! For departure times and more information visit durr.org.

The Otsego County Sheriff's Office announced the arrest of 50 year old James Smoot of Harmony North Carolina, as part of the investigation into the theft of firearms in the Town of Middlefield. Smoot was charged with Grand Larceny, & weapons charges following a larceny investigation of multiple firearms in the Town of Middlefield, Smoot was arraigned in Town of Middlefield Court, he was remanded to the Otsego County Jail on $3,000 cash bail or $6,000 bond and is scheduled to reappear in Middlefield Court on a later date.

The Otsego County Chamber of Commerce will host an inaugural Energy Infrastructure Summit on January 31, 2019 from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. at The Otesaga Resort Hotel in Cooperstown, NY. Details on how to register for Summit will be available mid-December and sent to all our members.

State Police arrested 43 year old Jason Rude of Oneonta for Grand Larceny, following a complaint that Rude allegedly took a victim’s vehicle without permission then sold the vehicle to Otsego Auto Crushers. Rude was arraigned in the town of Middlefield Court where he was released on his own recognizance.

The Broome County District Attorney's office announced that a Grand Jury has handed down a 14 count indictment against 2 Deposit residents on a variety of drug charges. Johanna DeGraw & Marlon Graham were arrested Friday, police seized Heroin, Methamphetamines and Fentanyl following a raid on Wheeler Street in Deposit. Both are being held in the Broome County Jail awaiting future court action.

NY State of Health announced in the first 4 weeks of the 2019 open enrollment period, enrollment is outpacing last year, with more than 930,000 consumers enrolled or renewed coverage in a Qualified Health Plan or the Essential Plan for 2019. Consumers must enroll or renew by December 15, for coverage beginning January 1, 2019. More information on enrollment eligibility or to enroll in a health plan is available at nystateofhealth.ny.gov, at 1-855-355-5777, or by contacting an enrollment assistor.

Governor Cuomo announced more than $9 million in federal funding has been secured to expand opioid addiction treatment services across the state. This funding includes $5.7 million to expand access to medication assisted treatment, $2.1 million to develop new recovery centers in areas of high need, and over $1.3 million for specialized treatment and recovery programs. These initiatives are being funded through the State Opioid Response Grant, which is administered by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration. New Yorkers struggling with an addiction can find help by calling 1-877-8-HOPENY.

A.M. NEWS TUESDAY 12-4-18
The Rochester City Police Department has activated the State AMBER Alert following child abduction in Rochester Saturday Night. The CHILD is 14 year old JOANNA COATES, described as a White female with brown hair and green eyes, about 5 feet 4 inches and 100 pounds; she was last seen wearing TIMBERLAND BOOTS, BLUE NIKE SHIRT, and BLACK LEGGINGS. The SUSPECT is 41 year old ROBERT GONZALEZ, described as a Hispanic male with black hair and brown eyes, 6 feet tall and he weighs about 185 pounds, he was last seen traveling southeast possibly heading for NEW YORK CITY. THE CHILD WAS TAKEN UNDER CIRCUMSTANCES THAT LEAD POLICE TO BELIEVE THAT THEY ARE IN IMMINENT DANGER OF SERIOUS HARM AND OR DEATH. Anyone with any information is asked to call (866) N Y S-AMBER or dial 911 to provide information to law enforcement.

The Broome County Special investigations Unit Task Force executed a search warrant at 62 1/2 Wheeler Street in Deposit Friday afternoon at 2:00 PM, they seized Heroin, Fentanyl, Methamphetamines, with a net worth well over one million dollars, plus $24,000 in cash & Property. Arrested were Johanna DeGraw of Deposit & Marlon Graham of Deposit, on a variety of drug charges, both were arraigned Friday night & were remanded to the Broome County Jail without bail pending future court action.

State Police arrested 56 year old Stephen Christoffersen of Port Crane for felony DWI, after a trooper was dispatched to a 1 car rollover on County Route 32 in the town of Greene. When the trooper arrived, he located the vehicle on its side, Christoffersen was not injured, and He was arrested and arraigned in the town of Oxford Court where he was released on his own recognizance.

State Police arrested 27 year Sabrina Gray of New Berlin for felony of Aggravated DWI after a trooper was dispatched to State Highway 12 in the town of Norwich to check on a female who appeared to be sleeping in her parked vehicle. The trooper observed the vehicle running with Gray in the driver’ seat and a 5-year-old child in the passenger’s seat. Gray was arrested & the child was turned over to a family member. Gray was arraigned in the town of Norwich Court and remanded to the Chenango County Jail on $50,000 cash bail or $100,000 property bond.

State Police at Troop C are warning residents of a phone scam where the caller claims to be with NYSEG. Troopers recently have received several complaints from businesses where scammers threaten to cut service unless it’s immediately paid using a prepaid debit card. The scam also provides a call back number with a recorded greeting similar to that of NYSEG. Troopers warn residents never to trust anyone who calls you and asks you to make a payment using a prepaid card. If you have any questions about your NYSEG bill, call them directly.

The Otsego County Sheriff’s Department has arrested 31 year old Stephanie Shulgay of Worcester for 3rd degree Grand larceny. Shulgay is accused of stealing about $11,000 dollars from a Worcester family while working as a home aide. Shulgay was arraigned in Worcester Town Court & was released in his her recognizance pending future court action.

Oxford Village Mayor Terry Stark will officiate their annual holiday spectacular this Sunday at 5:00 PM. There will be local entertainment, a visit by Santa Claus & the official tree lighting ceremony. More information is available at oxfordny.com.

The Sidney Chamber of Commerce has added more events to go along with the annual Holly Jolly Days Parade & Celebration later today. Chamber Vice President Teri Schunk explains:

(Teri Schunk 11-30-18)

There be many specials sales at downtown Sidney Merchants today & The Sidney Super 8 will distribute donated winter clothes for children at VEP after the parade.

The Bainbridge-Guilford Teachers' Association is hosting its 8th Annual Craft Fair, in the Greenlawn Elementary School Gymnasium tomorrow from 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM. Many local artists and crafters will be featured, along with crafts for kids, a pancake breakfast, and a Chinese Auction, with proceeds benefiting the Student Council's Angel Fund which provides holiday food baskets for local families in need. Admission is free.

State Police are looking to identify an individual described as a white female with shoulder length blond hair, driving a white 4 door late model sedan. The suspect is accused of going through a vehicle while it was parked at Animal Adventure Park near Colesville on October 16 and taking money, credit cards and checks. The suspect's picture was obtained when she attempted to cash a check using the victim’s identification at the NBT Bank in Syracuse. Anyone with information should call State Police at 775-1241; photos have been posted at the State Police Troop C web page.

The State Department of Taxation and Finance announced more than 62,000 payments worth more than $46.6 million have been made through its convenient Quick Pay application since the beginning of 2018. The free service provides individuals a way to promptly pay a tax bill or debt owed from an audit or collection case, or as part of an installment payment agreement. More information is available at tax.ny.gov at the Bills & Notices page.

The race in the 22nd Congressional District is over, with Anthony Brindisi officially being called the winner, and outgoing Republican Claudia Tenney finally conceded the race yesterday. Brindisi has already been in Washington for orientation, Tenney leaves after serving only 1 term in Congress.

State Senator Fred Akshar has posted a survey on his website regarding social media and search history background checks for pistol permit applications and renewals. The survey can be taken at nysenate.gov/senators/fred-akshar.

State Police Superintendent George Beach announced the line of duty death of Trooper Jeremy VanNostrand this morning. Trooper VanNostrand was reporting to work at the State Police barracks in Fonda when he was involved in a motor vehicle crash at about 7:45 AM. The investigation revealed that Trooper VanNostrand was stopped in traffic in his personal vehicle, waiting to turn into the station, when he was rear-ended and pushed into oncoming traffic; he was transported to Albany Medical Center where he succumbed to his injuries. Trooper VanNostrand served with the State Police for 6 years, he is survived by his wife & daughter, and funeral arrangements will be announced shortly.

Attorney General Barbara Underwood released the annual "Pennies for Charity: Where Your Money Goes; Fundraising by Professional Fundraisers" report, which found that nearly 1/3rd of charitable donations ended up in the pockets of professional fundraisers. In 2017, more than $1.18 billion was raised in New York State through 964 fundraising campaigns conducted by professional fundraisers on behalf of charities. The report and the searchable Pennies for Charity database containing the underlying data is posted at www.CharitiesNYS.com.

Some individuals on Medicaid receiving treatment for opioid use disorder might have received opioid prescriptions outside of their treatment programs, according to an audit issued by State Comptroller Tom DiNapoli. Auditors examined state Department of Health records from 2013 to Sept. 3th 2017 and identified 18,786 Medicaid recipients who received 208,198 prescriptions for opioids through Medicaid while also receiving opioids such as methadone, as part of a treatment program for opioid use disorder. DiNapoli recommended the Department of Health develop a report that can be used to notify treatment programs when I-STOP indicates recipients are receiving dangerous prescriptions; & to take steps to ensure Medicaid managed care organizations require reviews prior to dispensing opioids to recipients with opioid use disorder. The report is available at osc.state.ny.us/audits.

Oneonta Mayor Gary Herzig joined 50 mayors from across the State in Albany recently, to discuss the New York Conference of Mayors priorities for the 2019 Legislative Session. The mayors announced that the Creation of a Municipal Investment Initiative, Increase State Funding for Infrastructure & Allow Municipalities to be Compensated for the Cost of Providing Services to Large Tax Exempt Properties.

Otsego County Sheriff’s Department announced the arrest of 2 men on multiple charges after a joint investigation by his Office and the NYS DEC Police in the Town of Middlefield. 22 year old Dylan Kingsley of Rome & 23 year old Nathanial Smoot of Statesville, North Carolina were charged with illegally taking of a deer, possession of a loaded weapon in a vehicles, trespassing & hunting without a license among other charges, for allegedly hunting illegally on private land in the Town of Middlefield. Kingsley is accused of illegally shooting a deer while Smoot is accused of hunting without a license. Both were arraigned in the Town of Middlefield Court & face action at a later date.

As part of an initiative to be designated as a Clean Energy Community, the City of Oneonta has installed a ChargePoint Level 2 electric vehicle charging station in the Dietz Street parking lot. The Program is a NYSERDA initiative to reward communities for becoming more energy efficient. The charging station is equipped with two ports, allowing two vehicles to charge simultaneously. Initially, the City will not apply a fee for drivers to use this EV charging station. However, drivers must be a member of the ChargePoint network. 2 parking spaces, adjacent to the charging station in the Dietz Street Parking Lot, will be reserved for electric vehicles only.

20-year-old Michael Roque of Long island was sentenced today in Broome County Court for the murder of Joao Souza on April 15 at Windham Hall on the Binghamton University campus. Roque pleaded guilty in September to 2nd degree murder, he was sentenced to 20 years in prison.

After all the absentee ballots were accounted for, Anthony Brindisi has defeated one term incumbent republican Congresswoman Claudia Tenney in the 22nd district. Brindisi had small lead last week as the ballots were being counted, he attended orientations for new incoming members of Congress in Washington while the votes were being tabulated, and he will be sworn in in January.

State Comptroller Tom DiNapoli is urging New Yorkers to read the fine print on gift cards this holiday season for details about fees and expiration dates. DiNapoli said New Yorkers should use their gift cards within a year of purchase to avoid inactivity fees and register cards with the retailers. By registering their cards, owners can be identified which improves the opportunity of finding and claiming unused card balances that may be reported as unclaimed funds. Money from unused gift cards issued by New York businesses is turned over to the State Comptroller’s office as abandoned property after five years of dormancy. State residents can find out if the state owes them money, can find out at osc.state.ny.us.

NY State of Health announced that Qualified Health Plan enrollees can begin renewing their coverage for 2019 starting today. Consumers must enroll or renew by December 15, 2018 for coverage beginning January 1, 2019. Renewal notices have been sent to more than 500,000 households with current NY State of Health coverage with information about their 2019 eligibility, health plan options, and costs. More information is available at nystateofhealth.ny.gov or 1-855-355-5777.

ACCO Brand employees rallied together for the Sidney United Way campaign this year, with 250 employees taking part in this year’s fundraiser. The donations will help local charities such as the Sidney Emergency Squad, Local Girl and Boy Scout Troops, Delaware Valley Humane Society, Tri-County Senior Center, American Red Cross, Local Food Banks, Catholic Charities and many others. the fall 2018 campaign raised and donated more than $25,000 to help support the work of the Sidney United Way.

The American Red Cross is facing a severe blood shortage and urgently needs donors to give blood today at 2 area locations. The Oneonta blood drive will be held from 12:00 Noon until 5:00 PM at SUNY Oneonta & in Cooperstown from 12:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m., at Bassett Hall, 1 Atwell Road. Blood donors of all blood types, especially type O, and platelet donors are urged to make an appointment to donate at RedCrossBlood.org or by calling 1-800-RED CROSS

Free Coats, Hats, Scarves & Gloves in gently used condition will be given away this Saturday from 9:00 AM to 12:00 Noon at the Butternut Grange hall at 7 Bloom Street in Gilbertsville. The event is open to anyone in need.

Delaware County Sheriff Deputies’ responded to a physical domestic dispute on Dry Brook Rd in the Town of Tompkins in August, upon completion of the investigation 65 year old Gerald Brundege of Tompkins was arrested for Harassment, 53 year old Mary Brundege of North Branch, NY was arrested for Harassment, she was released on a Criminal Summons. 64 year old Erpherd Brundege was arrested on an Arrest Warrant issued by the Town of Tompkins Court for Harassment, Reckless Endangerment & Assault; he was arraigned in the Village of Walton Court and released on his own recognizances. All parties are to appear in the Town of Tompkins Court at a later date to answer the said charges.

The State Department of Health announced that it has issued the 2nd 2-year report on the Medical Use of Marijuana Under the Compassionate Care Act. The report recommends changes to increase patient access, which includes allowing practitioners to certify patients who previously did not qualify for medical marijuana; permitting all practitioners who can prescribe controlled substances to people to become registered providers; and initiating a pilot study to assess the cost-benefits of health insurance coverage. More information is available at health.ny.gov/regulations/medical_marijuana/.