WCDO Radio News

P.M. NEWS FRIDAY 4-4-25

Assemblyman Joe Angelino announced that a bill that required a mandatory prison sentence without parole for those convicted of killing a police officer, firefighter or 1st responder, or for killing a child, failed to pass the assembly code committee and was not sent for a full floor vote. Another bill would have made it a crime to spit in the face of a police officer, correction officer or 1st responder, it also failed to pass the codes committee. Angelino said that there are bills coming up that fall short for the safety of the general public that may pass:

(Angelino 4-4-25)

Angelino also said that a budget agreement has still not been passed, it was due on April 1st, an extender was passed through Thursday, another extender was passed to extend it into next week.

Delaware County Sheriff’s Deputies responded on September 29th, 2024, to Davenport for a report of a car into a house. 2 occupants of the house had sustained major injuries, the operator of the vehicle, 18-year-old Jayden Aviles, of Maryland, New York was impaired by Cannabis, 1 of the victims died as a result of the injuries sustained during the collision. A Delaware County Grand Jury handed down an indictment charging Aviles with Driving while Ability Impaired by Drugs, Vehicular Manslaughter & Vehicular Assault, Aviles was arrested Friday & was released but had to surrender his passport, Drivers License, he could not leave the region Aviles is scheduled to re-appear at the Delaware County Court at a later date for further Court Action.

Governor Kathy Hochul today announced that 8 SUNY campuses are developing departments, centers, and institutes of AI and Society to broaden AI development. The state has provided $5 million in funding to foster collaboration across disciplines to promote inclusive AI research, to address ethical concerns in the use of AI, and to advance responsible data use. Investments will launch the creation of the Institute for AI and Society at Binghamton University.

A.M. NEWS FRIDAY 4-4-25

The Chenango County Farm Bureau will host its Inaugural Pancake Breakfast Fundraiser from 8 to 11 am., April 5, at the Norwich Grange Hall, located at 167 County Road 32A in Norwich.

The Double A New York Mets affiliate, the Binghamton Rumble Ponies will open the season on the road tonight against the New Hampshire Fisher Cats. The home opener will be on Tuesday night against the Hartford Yard Goats at Mirabito Stadium starting at 6:07 pm.

P.M. NEWS TUESDAY 3-11-24

New York Farm Bureau outlined their priorities for the federal Farm policies today, Farm Bureau President David Fisher said that Tariffs present a problems for New York Farmers:

(David Fisher 3-11-25)

The US Farm bill that is currently followed was formulated in 2018, it runs through September 30, 2025, so a new farm bill will need to be passed in the coming months.

Hartwick College is offering over 50 online summer classes across three sessions between May 26 and Aug. 15. The session will be open to current Hartwick students, students from other colleges, recent high school graduates, high school seniors (with permission), and adult learners, registration for Hartwick's summer online classes opened on March 3rd, more information, including course offerings and session dates, are available at hartwick.edu/summeronline.

A.M. NEWS Tuesday 3-11-25

The latest Sienna College Poll shows that Governor Kathy Hochul has the support of 46% of Democrats, with a commanding lead over Lt. Governor Antonio Delgado, 11%, and Rep. Ritchie Torres, 10%. Hochul’s favorability has 40% approval while 50% disapprove, with an even split on job approval (46-48%). President Trump’s favorability rating, 39% approve, while 57% disapprove, is little changed from last month, but his overall job approval rating was 42% favor & 55% disapprove, is down by 3% from February.

Lieutenant Governor Antonio Delgado will deliver the 2025 Leslie G. Rude Memorial Lecture on Tuesday, Mar. 11, at 5 p.m. in the Anderson Center for the Arts on the Hartwick College campus. His presentation, "Public Service in New York," is free and open to the public.

P.M. NEWS FRIDAY 12-27-24

Otsego County Sheriff's Office arrested 42 year old Christopher Devins of Milford, for Sex Offender Failure to Report Change in Status, following an investigation in to a report of a Registered Sex Offender operating a Facebook account not listed on his sex offender registry, and doing so under a false name. Additionally, Devins was found to have prior convictions of violations of the sex offender registry, he was located by deputies at his residence in the Town of Milford and taken in to custody without incident, he was processed and turned over to corrections staff to await further court proceedings.

Otsego County Sheriff's Office arrested 36 year old Benjamin Combes of New Lisbon on 38 counts of Criminal Contempt. The Investigation revealed that Combes contacted the protected party of an order of protection 38 times while incarcerated in the Otsego County Correctional Facility. Combes was processed and returned to the Otsego County Correctional Facility to await further court proceedings.

The United Way of Mid Rural New York Campaign Ends, & they are seeking donations to try to meet their annual goal. Donations help various programs, donations can be made online at uwmrny.org/Donate.

A 2025 Virtual Challenge hosted by the Bainbridge Glow Run will benefit former B-G Bobcat Apryl Mazepa, who has been battling cancer for 14 years and needs financial assistance to pay for medical expenses. The Virtual Run is online & starts January 1st and ends March 31st, Registration is free for kids under 18 and adults over 85, registration is available at runsignup.com/Race/NY/Bainbridge/MilesForTheMazepas.

A.M. NEWS FRIDAY 12-27-24

Governor Kathy Hochul signed legislation that requires large fossil fuel companies to pay for critical projects while creating a ‘Climate Superfund’ to support New York-based projects that bolster New York’s resiliency to climate impacts like flooding and extreme heat, it also closes a loophole that broadens laws against "Fracking" in New York State.

New York Farm Bureau announced that Governor Hochul signed 10 bills into law that were endorsed by them this year. 1 law authorizes the direct intrastate and interstate shipment of alcoholic beverages, which allows distilleries & cideries the same shipping privileges enjoyed by wineries and liquor stores, another Clarifies the law that requires each livestock and equine rescue facility to hold a Domestic Animal Health Permit and another Allows the DEC commissioner to enter into contracts for maple tree tapping and sap production on state lands, another new law allows for fresh produce from farms for incarcerated individuals.

P.M. NEWS MONDAY 12-9-24

Otsego County Sheriff's Office arrested 43 year old John Crotts of Oneonta following a motor vehicle accident last week. Crotts was charged with Driving while intoxicated, Driving while ability impaired by drugs, Criminal possession of a controlled substance & Miscellaneous Traffic Citations, The investigation revealed that Crotts had been operating a motor vehicle while impaired by drugs he was arrested and later released after the issuance of appearance tickets for Town of Oneonta court at a later date.

Starting January 1st, the minimum wage will go up 50 cents, followed by another 50-cent increase starting January 1, 2026. The minimum wage will be set at $17 in New York City, Long Island, and Westchester County and the rest of the state will be set at $16. More information about minimum wage can be found on the New York State Department of Labor’s website at dol.ny.gov/minimum-wage.

30 year old Joshua Mazyck of Endicott, pleaded guilty to Attempted Criminal Possession of a Weapon in the Second Degree and will serve 6 years in New York State Prison followed by 5 years post release supervision as a second felony in Broome County Court. On June 5, after a traffic stop and subsequent investigation by State Police, Mazyck was found to be in possession of fentanyl, packaging materials, a loaded handgun, cutting agents, and a digital scale.

New York Farm Bureau attracted a record-breaking 400-plus attendees and nearly 70 sponsors to its State Annual Convention in Verona last week. Judi Whittaker was a winner of the Distinguished Service to Agriculture Awards, she is a third-generation owner of Whittaker Farms in Broome County, The James Quinn Award was presented to Barb Hanselman of Delaware County, the New York Farm Bureau’s state legislative priorities will be released in January.

A.M. NEWS Monday 12-9-24

State Police issued a total of 24,191 tickets statewide during this year’s special Thanksgiving holiday traffic enforcement period, from Saturday, November 23, through Sunday, December 1st. Troopers arrested 251 people for DWI and investigated 1,259 crashes, including three fatal crashes. In the Southern Tier there were 1146 total tickets issued.

P.M. NEWS TUESDAY 5-21-24

School district across the state are putting up their budget proposals today for public approval, many district also have School Board Seats, capital projects & School Bus Propositions up for public vote. More information is available at most school district websites for locations & duration for the voting public.

State Police arrested 4 people in connection with a case of over 100 neglected animals at a farm on Clark Lane and Pig Farm Lane in New Berlin. Arrested were 44 year old Dominick Brown, for 9 counts of aggravated cruelty to animals & 95 counts of Overdriving, Torturing and Injuring Animals; Failure to Provide Proper Sustenance. 74 year old Jane Richards for 9 counts of Aggravated Cruelty to Animals & 87 counts of Overdriving, Torturing and Injuring Animals; Failure to Provide Proper Sustenance. 56 year old Helen Goude & 60 year old Katheriena Goude, lesser counts of Aggravated Cruelty to Animals & Overdriving, Torturing and Injuring Animals; & Failure to Provide Proper Sustenance. On April 26th, over 2 dozen animals were located deceased and an additional 107 neglected animals were removed, including horses, pigs, cattle, sheep, goats, a llama, dogs and cats. All 4 were issued appearance tickets for New Berlin Town Court tomorrow

State Department of Labor today released preliminary local area unemployment rates for April 2024. Rates are calculated using methods prescribed by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. The State's area unemployment rates rely in part on the results of the Current Population Survey, which contacts approximately 3,100 households in New York State each month. To recap last week's statewide press release, New York State's seasonally adjusted unemployment rate decreased from 4.3% in March to 4.2% in April 2024. Locally, Chenango County had 3.4% Unemployment, Delaware County 4.1% & Otsego 3.8% in April.

Water levels are a big issue every year for the General Clinton Canoe Regatta, Local Paddler Ed Curley Told WCDO News about the usual conditions for the 70 mile race on Sunday:

(Ed Curley 5-21-24)

The full slate of race schedules can be found at canoeregatta.org. WCDO will have extensive coverage of the General Clinton Canoe regatta again this year.

The Sidney High School Flood Monitoring Team will be giving a special presentation for the public in the Smart Community Room at the Sidney Memorial Public Library on Tuesday, May 28th at 6PM. Rich Townsend was a Science Teacher at Sidney at the start of the program in 2007, & is still guiding the program, he told WCDO about donations that they have received recently & what the money will be used for:

(Rich Townsend 5-21-24)

Townsend said that the students have given several presentations about the flood monitoring program. Anyone interested in donating to the project should email: rtownsend@sidneycsd.org. The presentation on the 28th is free & open to the public.

A.M. NEWS Tuesday 5-21-24

Delaware County Sheriff's Office arrested 25 year old Sean Gillespie of Delhi on a bench warrant for failing to appear in court to answer to a drug related charge, issued out of the Town of Delhi. On May 9th, Deputies were contacted by the City Oneonta Police Department, who advised that they who had taken Gillespie into custody, he was turned over to central arraignment processing at the Delaware County Jail to await arraignment.

FRIENDS OF THE UPPER DELAWARE RIVER & the New York City Department of Environmental Protection will hold a meeting today regarding the Delaware Aqueduct Shutdown scheduled for October 1st. The meeting will be today at 10:00 AM until 12:00 Noon at 158 East Front Street, Hancock.

P.M. NEWS THURSDAY 3-21-24

Delaware County Sheriff's Office arrested 45 year old Nehemiah Clark of Bloomville and 25 year old Jordan Clark of Andes man on drug charges. Deputies assisted State Parole Officers with conducting a home visit at the Delaware County homeless shelter in Bloomville, where it was determined that the parolee was not at the residence and was violating his terms with parole, a vehicle was observed passing by with the parolee inside and a traffic stop was conducted. Deputies & K9 Dexter determined that both occupants were in possession of fentanyl, they were charged with criminal possession of a controlled substance & were released on appearance tickets to the Town of Kortright Court at a later date.

Bassett Healthcare Network’s board of directors has announced that Staci Thompson has been named President and CEO of Bassett Healthcare Network,she told WCDO News that she is excited to continue the work started by her predecessor Dr. Tommy Ibrahim:

(Staci Thompson 3-21-24)

Thompson has been serving as interim President and CEO since January 1, 2024, after succeeding Dr. Ibrahim, Her tenure as President and CEO of Bassett Healthcare Network begins immediately. Thompson arrived at Bassett Healthcare Network in 2023 after serving at The Guthrie Clinic for more than 28 years, where she held several executive leadership positions.

The Delaware County Sheriff's Office arrested 27 year old Ford Bailey-Banks of Davenport for 2nd degree Burglary, criminal trespass. On March 5th, 2024, Sheriffs Deputies received a complaint that Bailey-Banks had entered onto another’s property and into dwelling, where he stole multiple items as well a firearm, he was transported to the Delaware County Sheriffs Office to await Centralized Arraignment Processing and will be scheduled to appear at the Town of Harpersfield Court at a later date to answer for the charges.

A.M. NEWS 3-21-24

State Police arrested 25 year old Jesse Micha-Hurlburt of Bainbridge, for Endangering the Welfare of a Child, Disseminating Indecent Material of a Minor 2nd degree, Coercion and Unlawful Publication of an Intimate Image. On December 8, 2023, State Police received a report of an unknown individual requesting indecent material from a minor over text message and social media, he was arrested earlier this week, and was transported to Chenango County Jail.

New York Farm Bureau members donated eight million pounds of food to regional food banks across the state last year through the Harvest for All program. More information on local food donation projects, is available through local food banks.

P.M. NEWS Wednesday 2-14-24

The Broome County Sheriff Fred Akshar gave an update today regarding the investigation into last Friday's multi-vehicle accident on State Route 12A in the Town of Chenango where a 15 year old faces several charges & will be processed in Family Court:

(Sheriff Akshar 2-14-24)

The 15 year old juvenile had no previous record, the driver of 1st vehicle that was hit, sustained serious injuries and was transported to UHS Wilson Medical Center, and remains there in recovery, the juvenile was also taken to Wilson & was treated & released.

State Police at Troop C are also investigating the death of 46 year old Terence Johnson of 14 Game Farm Road, Ithaca. Johnson was discovered deceased in his apartment from a gunshot wound to the head during the early morning hours of Sunday, January 28th, Anyone with information pertaining to the investigation is requested to contact the New York State Police Bureau of Criminal Investigation at 607-561-7400.

The Workforce Development Board is offering a free virtual job fair on Tuesday, February 27, 2024, from 11:00am to 1:00pm, for all businesses and job seekers in several area counties, including Chenango, Delaware, and Otsego. To learn more, visit working-solutions.org.

A.M. NEWS WEDNESDAY 2-14-24

The Binghamton Police Department is currently investigating a shooting on Monday At approximately 7:10 pm. at 100 Roberts Street building 6. officers located 15- 9mm shell casings and 10- 40 caliber Shell casings, No injuries have been reported, 4 vehicles had been struck by gunfire. The suspects are described as five to six masked men, last seen fleeing the area on foot. Anyone with information should contact the Binghamton Police Detective Bureau at (607) 772-7080.

Broome County Sheriff's Deputies arrested 37 year old Helene Delnegro of Port Dickinson, for Reckless Endangerment and Obstructing Governmental Administration, after driving through an active crime scene while fleeing police. Delnegro was taken into custody by New York State Police on separate charges related to his incident.

P.M. NEWS WEDNESDAY 10-25-23

46 year old John Jaromack Jr, formerly of Franklin, appeared in Delaware County Court Monday, he was sentenced to a total of 10 years in State Prison to be followed by 10 years of post-release supervision. Jaromack pleaded guilty to 2 counts of Criminal Sexual Act in August in Delaware County Court, he admitted to sexually abusing a minor child. The court also issued orders of protection in favor of the two children for the next 13 years. The defendant will be mandated to register as a sex offender upon being released from prison.

U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand announced today that millions in federal funding will be available for New Yorkers through the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program this winter:

(Gillibrand 10-25-23)

The money will help thousands of households across the state afford their heating bills and make cost-effective home energy repairs this winter. She is also calling for additional funding for LIHEAP to make sure that as many qualifying families as possible can get the assistance they need throughout the coming months.

The Salvation Army is looking for volunteers to man the Red Kettles prior to the Christmas holiday, at 2 Sidney Locations, spokesperson Marie Cole explains:

(Marie Cole 10-25-23)

Those interested in volunteering should call Cole at 607-435-5882 & leave a message.

A.M. NEWS WEDNESDAY 10-25-23

The Broome County Sheriff's Office arrested 45 year old Danielle Ashdown of Binghamton during the intake process at the Broome County Correctional Facility. On October 6th, Ashdown was arrested by Binghamton Police for a conditional discharge. A routine search uncovered 2 clear bags hidden on her person, containing methamphetamine and fentanyl, they also recovered 2 other substances. Ashdown was charged with Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance & 3 Counts of Promoting Prison Contraband, she was remanded to the Broome County Correctional Facility.

The Chenango County Farm Bureau Annual Meeting will be held today at Fred’s Inn, in Norwich, beginning at 6:00 pm. Members, farmers, and legislators will be present to discuss the future of agriculture & how green energy is affecting production.

P.M. NEWS TUESDAY 9-19-23

41 year old Paul Thayer of Utica was sentenced in Delaware County Court for his conviction of Attempted Dissemination of Indecent Materials to a Minor. On May 2nd, Thayer drove from Utica to the Village of Walton to meet a person he believed to be a 14 year old boy after sending the boy numerous text messages soliciting sexual acts. Thayer admitted he believed the boy was 14, the boy was actually a fictitious entity controlled by an organization dedicated to catching sexual predators, Judge Hubbard sentenced him to a 3-year term of probation supervision, which will include specific sex offender terms and conditions.

New York Farm Bureau is hosting a State Convention on December 4th through the 6th at the Sleepy Hollow Hotel and Convention Center in Tarrytown. This year's theme "A Bridge to Opportunity" will focus on creating new openings for farms and agribusinesses in the competitive northeast marketplace. Registration is now open at stacon.nyfb.org.

A free Health & Wellness Fair will be held on Saturday, from 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM on the Bainbridge Village Green. Reverend Kenneth Simurro of the 1st Presbyterian Church of Bainbridge & The United Presbyterian Church of East Guilford is helping to organize the event & he told WCDO news of some of the key participants:

(Rev. Kenneth Simurra 9-19-23)

Reverend Simurra said that the other participants include the Bainbridge Fire Department, and the Lighthouse Cancer Support Group among many others, there will also be a bake sale & winter clothing and personal hygiene giveaway. A blood drive will be held at the Town Hall. More information is available by email to healthfairbainbridge@gmail.com.

The Unadilla Historical Society is having a Fall Open House tonight at the Village & Town Museum at 133 Main Street in Unadilla. The event runs from 6:30 to 8:30 PM & is open to the public.

A.M. NEWS TUESDAY 9-19-23

State Police arrested 48 year old Theresa Price of Utica for 3rd degree Grand Larceny. Troopers were advised last week that Price took a used vehicle for a test drive from a car dealership, told them she’d like the vehicle checked out by her mechanic but never returned. An investigation revealed that on September 15, the vehicle was traveling on Interstate 90. Price and the vehicle were located at a truck stop in the town of Pembroke. She was arrested and was processed and was turned over to the Otsego County Jail for Arraignment.

P.M. N EWS MONDAY 5-22-23

32 year-old Courtni Baker of Sidney pleaded guilty in Delaware County Court today to charges relating to a February 15th accident, where Baker struck 14-year-old Anielle “AK” McEwan-Lomnicki as she was walking home from Sidney middle school. Delaware County Acting District Attorney Shawn Smith told WCDO news about the verdict:

(DA Shawn Smith 5-22-23)

Baker registered a .24 blood alcohol content, three times the legal limit at the time of her arrest, Smith said that Baker faces 4 to 12 years in prison at her sentencing on September 25th.

The New York Farm Bureau announced support today for Governor Hochul's request to the federal government to expedite work visas for migrants who have been properly processed and who want to work on farms in New York State. There is a lengthy tradition of migrant workers on New York State farms, Farm Bureau officials stated that the State Department of Agriculture and Markets along with Cornell's Agricultural Workforce Development program are working to rectify the situation, the latest action would just be a temporary one and Washington officials must act to come up with a permanent solution to all angles of the immigration issue.

The State Department of Health today issued updated advisories for the consumption of fish from waterbodies in the State. The most notable update this year is the release of a new Catskill Region advisory, which includes the Cannonsville & Pepacton reservoirs in Delaware County, The Advisory is for a “Sensitive population”, which includes people who may bear children and children under 15; the fish in question include rainbow, brook & brown trout. More information about the advisories is available at health.ny.gov.

Otsego County Sheriff's Office aarested 28 year old Joseph Spataro of Otego following a welfare check investigation in the Town of Oneonta. Spataro was chargeedd with Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance, DWI, Unlicensed Operator, Driving While Ability Impaired by Drugs & Aggravated Unlicensed Operation of a mtoro vehicle, Spataro is accused of operating a motor vehicle while impaired and in possession of drugs, he was issued an appearance ticket for the Oneonta Town Court on a later date.

A.M. NEWS MONDAY 5-22-23

The Otsego County Sheriff’s Office arrested 48 year old Richard Sherman of Guilford following a motor vehicle accident on State Highway 51 in the Town of Morris. Sherman was arrested for Driving While Intoxicated , Speed not reasonable and prudent, Failure to Keep Right among other charges, Sherman will appear in Town of Morris Court on May 22, 2023 at 3:00pm.

P.M. NEWS TUESDAY 3-21-23

Sidney Village Elections are being held today at the Sidney Civic Center 1st Floor Board Room, Deputy Mayor Vic Tartaglia & Sidney EMS Director Ray Baker are seeking to replace Andy Matviak, who is not seeking re-election after serving as Sidney Mayor for 12 years. Village elections are being performed throughout the state, polling places will be open until 9:00 PM.

Today is the 50th Anniversary of National Agriculture Day, Chenango County Farm Bureau President Bradd Vickers told WCDO News that Agriculture remains as critically important:

(Bradd Vickers 3-21-23)

Vickers said that this year, the Farm bureau has received proclamations from the Chenango County Board of Supervisors, Assemblyman Joe Angelino and tonight they will receive one from the Norwich Common Council, recognizing the importance of agriculture.

A.O. Fox Hospital and Bassett Healthcare Network announced that FoxCare Fitness in Oneonta will be closing permanently as of June 1 for Gym memberships, Spokesperson Gabby Argo told WCDO News that the pandemic made things harder for the facility to remain open as a Gym:

(Gabby Argo 3-21-23)

Argo said that Bassett has been discussing a possible collaboration with the Oneonta YMCA but so far no agreement has been reached. The last day of operations at FoxCare Fitness will be May 31.

A Red Cross blood drive is being held in Walton today until 6:00 PM. at the Pines Brook Church, Appointments can be made by visiting RedCrossBlood.org, downloading the Red Cross Blood Donor App, or calling 1-800-RED CROSS.

A.M. NEWS Tuesday 3-21-23

Delaware County Sheriff’s Deputies responded to a disabled vehicle on State Highway 28 in the Town of Franklin, 23 year old Devon Finch of Andes, had been operating a motor vehicle in an intoxicated state, Deputies arrested and charged Finch with operating a motor vehicle while intoxicated. Finch was released on an appearance ticket and directed to appear at the Town of Franklin Town Court at a later date.

The City of Oneonta announced that a safety concern on the exit ramp in the City’s Parking Garage located on Market Street, The ramp was immediately closed Monday and a structural engineer brought in , who advised that repairs to the ramp are required before it can be safely re-opened to vehicular traffic. The top level of the parking garage and the exit ramp will remain closed until those repairs can be made. Also, City officials announced that their contractor, R.B. Robinson Contracting, will begin construction for Gardner Place Street Reconstruction project on Wednesday, This project will continue thru the end of June 2023. Work includes replacement of sanitary and storm sewer mains, including new sewer laterals to residents and businesses, and full street reconstruction including some sidewalks and curbs followed by final restoration and stripping.

P.M. NEWS WEDNESDAY 10-26-22

With Election Day less than 2 weeks away, WCDO has been interviewing candidates for key area races. In the 19th Congressional District race, WCDO News asked Democrat Josh Riley & Republican Marc Molinaro to comments on their top priorities should they win the election, first we hear from Josh Riley:

(Josh Riley 10-26-22)

Republican Marc Molinaro also told WCDO News of his priorities should he be sent to Washington by district voters:

(Marc Molinaro 10-26-22)

The 19th Congressional District has changed substantially, even since the recent election where Molinaro lost to Democrat Pat Ryan, both men are running again against different opponents on November 8th in a District previously served by current Lieutenant Governor Antonio Delgado.

Assemblyman Joe Angelino & State Senator Peter Oberacker and local officials unveiled the newly-named SP4 Richard F. Walton, Jr. Memorial Highway in Gilbertsville. A bill sponsored by the lawmakers renamed a portion of State Highway 51 after the fallen Vietnam War medic, who was raised in the Town of Butternuts, he served in the 326th Medical Battalion, 101 Airborne, American Division of the U.S. Army. On February 6 1970, Walton lost his life in a helicopter crash while serving his country as a medic.

The State DMV announced that in order to take domestic flights, you will either need a valid passport, or a new "Real ID" from the DMV. The deadline to do upgrade is May 3rd, 2023, more information is available at dmv.ny.gov.

A.M. NEWS Wednesday 10-26-22

$48.7 million in federal highway safety grants have been awarded to 580 programs across New York State. The purpose of this grant program is to provide funds to local, state and not-for-profit agencies for projects that improve highway safety and reduce deaths and serious injuries due to crashes. Southern Tier Counties will receive Southern Tier $305,755.00 in grants.

The Delaware County Chamber of Commerce is again participating in the Annual Toys For Tots Campaign. Chamber President Ray Pucci told WCDO News that they are looking for area businesses to be collection site for toys:

(Ray Pucci 10-26-22)

Any Delaware County Business that is interested in becoming a 'Toys for Tots' Collection Site, should contact the Chamber soon at 607-746-2281. In December, Chamber staff will pick up the toys and deliver them to Delaware Opportunities, to provide distribution of the gifts to Delaware County families.

The Chenango County Farm Bureau Annual Meeting date is today, at Fred’s Inn, Route 12, Norwich. the event begins at 6:30PM.

P.M. NEWS THURSDAY 10-13-22

The U.S. Department of Agriculture is awarding more than $13 million in grants across rural New York state, Bassett Hospital will be receiving $229,071 in funding. Basset Officials announced that the money will be used for projects such as implementing tele-health and nutrition assistance programs, increase staffing to administer COVID-19 vaccines and testing, to build or renovate facilities, and purchase medical supplies.

The Chenango County Farm Bureau Annual Meeting date is set for October 26, 2022. The meeting will be held at Fred’s Inn, Rte. 12, Norwich, NY. Cocktails at 6:30pm (networking) Dinner at 7:00pm.

A.M. NEWS Thursday 10-13-22

Delaware County Sheriff's Office arrested 59 year old David Spry of South Kortright for DWI & moving from a lane unsafely, after an investigation of a 1 car motor vehicle accident in the Town of Stamford October 1st. Deputies observed a vehicle that appeared to have gone off of the roadway and sustained damage, they made contact with Spry, who appeared to be under the influence of alcohol. Spry was transported to O’Connor Hospital for treatment of injuries sustained in the motor vehicle accident, he was released on appearance tickets and will appear at the Town of Stamford Court at a later date.

P.M. NEWS FRIDAY 10-7-22

State Police Superintendent Kevin Bruen resigned from his position today, First Deputy Superintendent Steven Nigrelli will serve as Acting Superintendent of the State Police on an interim basis, and a search for a permanent replacement is underway.

Members of the Chenango County Farm Bureau recently lobbied lawmakers in Washington regarding a series of agricultural issues, Farm Bureau President Bradd Vickers comments:

(Bradd Vickers 10-7-22)

Vickers said that the issues were discussed in hopes of having the issues possibly resolved in the 2023 US Farm bill.

A.M. NEWS FRIDAY 10-7-22

The Chenango County Historical Society will host a Living History & Industrial Heritage Festival this Saturday at their Norwich location, commemorating the importance of the Chenango Canal, Historical Society Executive Director Jessica Moquin explains:

(Jessica Moquin 10-7-22)

For more information, visit ChenangoHistorical.org or call (607) 334-9227, extension 2.

P.M. NEWS TUESDAY 3-22-21

Sidney Police responded to a trespassing complaint on March 17th at a vacant home on Ritton Street in the Village. During the investigation it was learned that a male involved in the case had an active arrest warrant issued by Delaware County Family Court. 41 year old James Nash was arrested on a Delaware County Family Court warrant & was then turned over to the Delaware County Sheriff's Office.

A.M. NEWS TUESDAY 3-22-22

Governor Kathy Hochul reported that the State Health Department is closely monitoring BA.2 variant of COVID 19 as the positivity rate has increased over the last several days. On Sunday, the rate increased back up to 1.98%, 901 Patients are Hospitalized, there are 159 in an ICU with 71 on ventilators, 6 died in hospitals & nursing homes Sunday from the virus.

Today is "National Agriculture Day" a day to celebrate the importance of the American Farm, Chenango County Farm Bureau President Bradd Vickers told WCDO News that the number of farms continues to trend downward:

(Bradd Vickers 3-22-22)

Vickers said that Agriculture has contributed more than 5.7 billion dollars to New York State's economy, there are 33,400 farms in the State with 6,900,000 acres of operated farmland, more information is available at ccfbny.org.

P.M. NEWS THURSDAY 1-13-22

The 2022 Legislative session is underway in Albany, Local Assemblyman Joe Angelino, one of the few former Law Enforcement officers now in the legislature, wants to be part of the process to change the controversial Bail Reform Law passed 2 years ago:

(Joe Angelino 1-13-22)

Assemblyman Angelino said that other big issues this include dealing with the ongoing pandemic, and the issue of worker shortages brought on by the pandemic.

New York high school seniors who are graduating and interested in pursuing a career in agriculture can apply for New York Farm Bureau's Agricultural Youth Scholarship. Statewide winners can earn up to $3,000 towards their future education.  For more information, including the online application, go to New York Farm Bureau's website at www.nyfb.org or call the New York Farm Bureau office at 1-800-342-4143 for more information.

A.M. NEWS Thursday 1-13-22

Delaware County Public Health will be conducting a COVID-19 vaccination clinic for people 18 & older today at 97 Main Street, Delhi.  Moderna 1st or 2nd doses will only be available from 2:00 to 4:00 PM for walk-ins only.  Moderna boosters will be available from 2:00 to 4:00 PM, registration is required at apps2.health.ny.gov. There will be No Johnson & Johnson vaccines available for this clinic. For more information, call Delaware County Public Health at 607-832-5200.

P.M. NEWS THURSDAY 11-19-21

Chobani has filed paperwork for an initial public offering, which would allow them to become a publicly-traded company on the stock market. Bloomberg News reported that the company listed the size of the offering as $100 million, 5 years ago; Chobani gave 2,000 employees shares that would amount to 10% of the company’s future value in the event of a Public Offering.

New York Farm Bureau's 2021 Market Basket Survey shows the price of a traditional Thanksgiving dinner saw a modest uptick from last year's meal. The average total price, which includes a 16-pound turkey and other common items found on a holiday dinner table, is $52.59, a 1.7% increase over last year. Turkey prices are about $1.46 per pound in New York State, which is about five cents per pound over last year's average price there were small price increases for whipped cream, Pumpkin Pie Mix, fresh cranberries, and a veggie tray, the biggest decrease is for sweet potatoes. The Farm Bureau reported that the higher costs do not trickle down to the farmer, who receives only about 8 cents of each dollar consumers spend on food at the store.

The Bainbridge Chamber of Commerce will be doing a Collection for Toys for Tots on Saturday, December 11th. The Bainbridge Christmas Parade will be at 5:00 pm and they will have a pickup with Toys for Tots banner at the Firehouse for Collection, all donated Toys must be new & unwrapped. The Chamber will also have another collection on Sunday, December 12th during our Christmas Caroling at 5:00 pm behind Bob's Diner.

According to preliminary figures released today by the State Department of Labor, the number of private sector jobs in New York State increased to over 7.5 million in October. The State's seasonally adjusted unemployment rate decreased from 7.1% to 6.9% in October.

A.M. NEWS Thursday 11-18-21

The Chenango County Health Department is offering a Pfizer Vaccine clinic for children ages 5 and up on November 18th from 3:00 to 5:00 PM in Norwich at the Old Label Shopper store location in the South Plaza. More information is available at co.chenango.ny.us. vaccine clinics ARE ALSO EXPECTED TO Be conducted at local School Districts in December & January.

Delaware County Public Health reported another COVID 19 death in today's report, covering Tuesday & Wednesday, with 46 new cases, 226 active cases and 328 quarantined, they will be conducting a COVID-19 vaccination clinic today at 97 Main Street, Delhi from 2:00 to 4:00 PM. This clinic is open to people over the age of 18. Boosters will be available at this clinic, appointments are required for all Moderna Boosters at apps2.health.ny.gov. COVID vaccines are also available for people or completing their first series, more information is available by calling Delaware County Public Health at 607-832-5200.

P.M. NEWS Wednesday 3-17-21

Village elections were held in New York State Tuesday.  Locally in the Sidney Trustees race, Incumbent Vic Tartaglia received 118 votes, Pat Cristelli 102 votes, they were elected to the Village Board, and Write in Candidate Teri Schunk received 83 votes.  In Walton Ed Snow Defeated Incumbent Stephen Condon, many other local races featured unopposed candidates.

A new Sienna Poll showed that Voters believe by a 50 to 35% margin that Governor Cuomo should not immediately resign, a similar margin believes that he can continue to effectively do his job as governor.    Voters are satisfied with the way Cuomo has addressed the allegations, by a 57% to 32% margin, they approve of Cuomo’s handling of the pandemic, 60-33%, and voters gave Cuomo a negative grade, 27-66% regarding the reporting of Nursing home deaths during the pandemic.

Chenango County Public Health announced that their website has been updated and there is now a place to register for COVID-19 vaccine appointments at co.chenango.ny.us/public-health/nursing/covid19.  Registration for vaccine appointments must be done online. There will be no Walk-ins; the vaccine will only go to eligible groups outlined by the state Health Department.  The next Chenango Vaccine clinic is this Friday March 19th at the former Label Shopper Store in the South Plaza Center on State Route 12 in Norwich.  Chenango County reported 15 new COVID cases today, they report 2585 total cases, and they have 83 active cases, 247 quarantined and 7 hospitalizations.

A.M. NEWS WEDNESDAY 3-17-21

The State Department of Labor today released preliminary local area unemployment rates for January 2021.  The State unemployment rate increased to 8.8% in January 2021.  Locally, Chenango County had 6.3% unemployment, Delaware County 6.6% & Otsego County 6.7% in January.

Delaware County Public Health reported 8 new COVID 19 cases Tuesday out of 187 tested.  The county has 99 active cases, 7 hospitalized & 364 quarantined.

The American Farm Bureau Federation recognized New York Farm Bureau's Young Farmers and Ranchers program for its efforts to donate more than 8 million pounds of food to the regional food banks across the state last year.  The 8 Million pounds of food collected was through the "Harvest for All" donation program, the food was distributed among the 10 Feeding America food banks throughout the state.

The state-run mass vaccination site at SUNY Oneonta will open tomorrow, along with 9 others across the upstate Counties.  Bassett Healthcare Network staff will work at the site each day, along with Staff from the State, the National Guard and Otsego County Public Health.  Anyone currently eligible under state guidelines can find the link to register at bassett.org/covid-19/covid-19-vaccine, starting today.  After registering, patients should go to forms.ny.gov/s3/vaccine.  Eligible New Yorkers can also schedule appointments by utilizing New York's 'Am I Eligible' website or by calling the state's COVID-19 Vaccination Hotline at 1-833-NYS-4-VAX (1-833-697-4829).

P.M. NEWS FRIDAY 3-12-21

Delaware County will be presenting the Delaware County Sheriff's Department Reform plans to the state before the April 1st deadline; Delaware County Sheriff Craig DuMond said he was pleased with the plan & some of the changes that will be made:

(DuMond 3-12-21)

Governor Cuomo ordered all law enforcement agencies to meet with the communities they serve & submit reform plans, following last year’s George Floyd incident in Minnesota that sparked nationwide outrage over Police tactics.

The State DEC announced that the annual open burning ban will go into effect March 16th & run through May 14th this year.  The DEC reported that Open burning of household trash releases dangerous compounds including arsenic, carbon monoxide, benzene, formaldehyde, lead, & others into the air,  Open burning is also the single greatest cause of wildfires in New York.  More information is available at dec.ny.gov/chemical.

Several Fire Companies responded to a fire at about 1:20 this morning for structure fire at the Hansman Mill on Water Street in Smithville Flats.  The Genegantslett, Greene, Brisben, McDonough,  fire Departments plus the Chenango County Bureau of Fire, NYSEG & the state DEC responded, the Building was a complete loss. The fire Is still under investigation by the Chenango County Bureau of Fire.

The Otsego County Department of Health will be holding a vaccination clinic at the Meadows Office Complex in Cooperstown on Tuesday March 16th, the registration link is on the Otsego County Department of Health Website.  Registration is mandatory & the vaccine is available to anyone currently listed as eligible according to State Guidelines.

A.M. NEWS FRIDAY 3-12-21

Sidney Village Police responded to a domestic disturbance Thursday,  officers arrested 43 year old Anthony Fiorillo of Sidney for Criminal contempt, Menacing & Harassment.   Fiorillo was arraigned in the Village of Sidney Court & was remanded to the Delaware County Jail on $1000 cash bail or $2000 bond.

The State Board on Electric Generation Siting and the Environment granted approval to High Bridge Wind to build and operate a 100 megawatt wind farm in the Town of Guilford. The facility will be located on 3,900 acres, The turbines will have a total tip height of between 655 to 671 feet and be connected to the bulk electric transmission system owned by NYSEG.  A 17-mile long electrical collection system corridor will also be set up.

Delaware County Public Health reported 22 new COVID cases out of 287 tested Thursday, they reported 14 hospitalized, 185 quarantined & 133 active cases.  Delaware County Public Health has vaccinated 1,563 people.

Governor Cuomo announced that there were 855 new cases of the Coronavirus diagnosed Monday, about 1.3% of all those tested.  724 people are hospitalized, & there were 2 fatalities from the virus, the lowest numbers since early march & 91 patients are currently intubated on a ventilators, There have been 408,181 cases of the virus since the pandemic hit over 4 months ago, there have been 25,058 deaths.

Governor Cuomo announced today that 10 more states have been added to the list where individuals traveling from those states must quarantine for 14 days.  The new states are Alaska, Delaware, Indiana, Maryland, Missouri, Montana, North Dakota, Nebraska, Virginia and Washington Meet Metrics to Qualify for Travel Advisory, the state of Minnesota has been dropped from the list.  The 31 states are listed at coronavirus.health.ny.gov.

New York Farm Bureau unveiled the results of a member survey found that 65% of the state's farms and agribusinesses have been negatively impacted financially by the COVID-19 pandemic.    43% of farms have lost sales during the pandemic, 37% are experiencing cash flow issues, 47% have reduced spending to local vendors and suppliers & 84% have a plan in place to train and assist their employees to mitigate the spread of the virus, 46% are concerned about their own or someone else's mental health.

Congressman Anthony Brindisi today announced $800,000 in CARES Act Recovery Assistance Grants for New York’s 22nd District.   Mohawk Valley Economic Development District & the Southern Tier East Regional Planning Development Board each get $400,000, the funds will be used to update local economic development plans & strengthen community assistance programs.

The Village of Unadilla Board Meeting is tonight at 6:30 PM at the Firehouse 77 Clifton St. This meeting will be open to the public- social distancing will be observed and masks will be required.

Delaware County received 1 new case of COVID-19 Monday and is reporting 1 additional recovery. The known active cases in the County remains 4, the total number of positive cases is 87, with 31 people under quarantine, 4 people are isolated at home,  none are in the hospital, 6 people have died and 77 have fully recovered.

Otsego County Department of Health reported 3 new cases of COVID 19, giving the county a total 92 cases since March. There are 9 active cases with 2 hospitalized, 78 have recovered, there have been 5 deaths.

Governor
Cuomo announced a proposal that will require telecommunications companies to
deploy technology that allows customers to block suspected robocalls.  Telecom companies will be required to update
their blocking technology to protect their consumers; they must also adopt
available technology that warns consumers about potential robocalls and scams,
including those not originating from New York numbers. The proposal would also
ramp up financial penalties against companies who do not comply with New York's
"Do Not Call Law."

New
York lost more people than any other state in the nation for the 2nd year in a
row, according to estimates by the U.S. Census Bureau.  New York has a population of  19.5 million people, ranking 4th out of the
50 states,  the state's population
dropped by 76,790 other states losing significant population were Illinois,
West Virginia & Alaska.   New York
could lose 1 congressional seat when district lines are redrawn based on the
2020 Census.  Top reasons cited for
leaving New York included low wages, lack of jobs, high housing costs, bad
weather, partisan politics, high energy costs, crime & high taxes.

Several
Fire Companies responded to a blaze at 78 Broad Street in Morris Saturday.  The cause of the fire appears to be
electrical in nature, fire fighters from Morris as well as Gilbertsville, West
Laurens, West Oneonta, Laurens, Mount vision, Garrettsville and Pittsfield
responded.  No injuries were reported
& the Red Cross is assisting the displaced residents.

First
Night Oneonta’s alcohol free, family friendly New Year’s Eve Celebration will
be held tonight at the Foothills Performing Arts Center, on Market Street in
Oneonta.  At 5 pm the celebration begins
with a parade down Main Street. Line-up is at the Foothills between 4 and 4:30,
followed by a full line-up of activities at Foothills.

New
York Farm Bureau has released its annual "Circle of Friends," naming
77 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.   All of the representatives
from the state Senate & Assembly from the tri County area were chosen.

New York State is the 1st state to require makers of feminine
Hygiene products to list the ingredients in plain language, after a law was
signed recently by Governor Cuomo.  The
law was passed by the state legislature this year, in order to allow women who
use tampons or other sanitary products to be informed about possible toxic and
allergenic chemicals used in the manufacture of the products.    The law takes effect next April & it
gives the manufacturers 18 months to develop new packaging or labels.

The State DMV has added a new step in order to crack down on
vehicles that violate federal safety requirements. The changes affect modified
stretch limousines; 1 year after a modified Limo crashed in Schoharie &
killed the driver, 17 passengers & 2 people in a convenience store parking
lot.  The limo in the crash was a
modified 2001 Ford SUV that wasn't properly inspected, DMV officials now
believe that vehicles that carry this many passengers should  be subjected to higher standards that a
typical family vehicle.

The Chenango County Farm Bureau will hold their 64th Annual
Meeting this Wednesday evening.  The
meeting will be held at the Silo Restaurant in Greene at 6:30 pm.  Rsvp's by phone are requested by the end of
today at 334-6061.

Fire fighters from Sidney Center & surrounding
Communities responded to a structure fire on Wheat Hill Road earlier this
afternoon.  WCDO News will have more
details as they become available.

State Police have arrested 5 people in connection with a
Murder, robbery & suspected Arson at Head Road in Worcester Thursday
night.  The deceased has been identified
as 53 year old Kenneth Robinson of Worcester; State Police Captain Scott
Heggelke told WCDO news what their investigation has uncovered:

(Capt. Scott Heggelke 1-14-19)

32-year-old Nicolas Meridy of Oneonta has also been charged
with 2nd degree murder & Robbery,  4
minors are being held, 3 for 2nd degree Murder & Robbery, 1 minor is being
held just on the Robbery Charge.  State
Police said that Robinson sustained fatal gunshot wounds; the investigation is
on-going.

Governor Cuomo today launched a
statewide survey to select New York State's new license plate design. The
voting which opened today at now.ny.gov runs through Monday, September 2nd and
will allow New Yorkers to choose their favorite among the five proposed
designs. Voting will also be available to the public at the Governor's exhibit
at the Great New York State Fair starting August 21st. the winning plate design
will be available starting in April 2020.

State Police are investigating a
shooting early this morning in the parking lot of an apartment house on Shaffer
Road in the town of Newfield.  Troopers
discovered that a male subject was transported to any area hospital for a
gunshot wound to his back; Police are looking for a dark colored SUV traveling
south, Anyone with information is asked to call the State Police at 347-4440.

The Chenango County Farm Bureau announced that they have
teamed up with the New York Center for Agricultural Medicine & Health for a
presentation Monday in Norwich, regarding safety issues with farm equipment,
Farm Bureau President Bradd Vickers explains;

(Bradd Vickers 8-15-19)

The event will be free of charges & will be held at the
Norwich Fire House today at 2:00 PM until 5:00 PM.

Governor Cuomo is proposing a new Law to specifically
penalize domestic terrorism a response to recent mass shootings across the
country targeting Hispanics, Jews, Gays and other, by home grown radicalized
white males.  Cuomo said that the bill
would penalize those committing mass shootings as hate crimes should face the
same penalties of life in prison without parole, as those who committed the
9/11 terrorist acts.  The bill could be
passed this year if Cuomo calls lawmakers back to Albany by the end of the
year, or he could wait for the start of next year's session in January.

The 27th Chenango Bluesfest continues with a free
lineup tonight at the Fairgrounds in Norwich.
Blues fest organizer Eric Larsen said that the festival gets bigger
every year:

(Eric Larsen 8-16-19)

Tickets are required for
Saturday's all day line up; they can be purchased at the gate or online at
chenangobluesfest.org/tickets.

The Chenango County Farm Bureau announced that they have
teamed up with the New York Center for Agricultural Medicine & Health for a
presentation Monday in Norwich, regarding safety issues with farm equipment,
Farm Bureau President Bradd Vickers explains;

(Bradd Vickers 8-15-19)

The event will be free of charges & will be held at the
Norwich Fire House Monday at 2:00 PM until 5:00 PM.

The Appellate Division of state Supreme Court has declared
that farm workers have the same right to unionize as all other workers in New
York State.  State labor laws excluded
farm workers from collective bargaining rights, that was ruled unconstitutional
Thursday.  The New York Farm Bureau said
that they will appeal to the state's highest court, the Court of Appeals.

Filmmaker Lori Bailey grew up in the Adirondacks & in
Oneonta, she directed the film “Garrow” about Adirondack Serial Killer Robert
Garrow, who was once the target of the biggest manhunt in state history when he
was killed in 1973; Bailey told WCDO News that her film will be shown this
weekend in Oneonta:

(Lori Bailey 5-24-19)

Bailey said that her father went to school with Garrow in
Mineville New York, so the story held a special interest for her & her
family, the film is also available in DVD.

The 92nd Scripps National
Spelling Bee starting Sunday through next week & for the 3rd year in a row,
Bainbridge resident Melodie Loya will be participating.    Loya placed 18th and 25th in her two
previous years of national competition, and made it to the final 41of last
year’s 516 spellers.  The Scripps
national Spelling Bee will be held Sunday through next Friday at the Gaylord
National Resort & Convention Center in Fort Washington, Maryland.

A.M. NEWS FRIDAY 5-24-19

State Police and local law enforcement statewide will
increase patrols to combat drunk, impaired and reckless driving throughout
Memorial Day weekend. Troop C Commanding Officer Major Brian Shortall comments:

(Major Shortall 5-24-19)

The STOP-DWI enforcement period runs through Monday night,
Governor Cuomo announced that temporary lane closures for road and bridge
construction projects on New York State highways will be suspended through
Tuesday morning at 6:00 AM, to accommodate increased travel throughout Memorial
Day weekend.

Employment among New York’s small businesses has increased
slightly faster than the national pace, according to a report released today by
State Comptroller Tom DiNapoli. The report from the U.S. Census Bureau,
examined the 5-year trend through 2016, where small business employment rose by
9.2% in New York while increasing 8.9% across the country. Small Businesses
provided more than 4.1 million jobs in the state, which is about half of all
private sector jobs. Small businesses provided more than $212 billion in
payroll, nearly 40 percent of the total private sector payroll in the state.

The Chenango County Farm Bureau is hosting an Agricultural
Celebration Wednesday at the Silo Restaurant in Greene, from 11:00 AM until
2:00 PM, to celebrate National Agriculture Day.
Chenango County farm Bureau President Bradd Vickers comments:

(Bradd Vickers 3-19-19)

Vickers said that this year’s
theme is "Agriculture: Food for Life” & the keynote speaker will be
New York State Deputy Commissioner of the Department of Agriculture &
Markets; Dave Valesky.

Village elections are being held across the state today.  Locally, in Sidney incumbent Mayor Andy Matviak faces a challenge from Jeffrey Stefanek, plus 3 people are running for 2 seats on the board, Sheri Youngs, Raymond Baker & Barry MacPherson.  In Walton incumbent Mayor Ed Snow, faces a challenge from Steve Condon. In Gilbertsville, incumbent mayor Ken Nolan faces challenger Mark Muller. 3 people are seeking 2 trustee seats: Glenn Foster, Randolph Palada & John Wargo & in Afton 2 Trustee seats are open, 3 candidates are seeking those seats, Sally Muller; DeAnna Lawrence; Melissa Matthews. Polling places are open from 12:00 noon until 9:00 pm.  Those who have questions regarding their eligibility to vote in village elections, should contact their county Board of elections, or they should go to their polling place to see if they are eligible to vote today.

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.

New York Farm Bureau members along with the Food Bank Association of New York State announced this morning that farmers from across the state donated 10,628,208 million pounds of fresh food and farm products this year through the month of November. That is 1.6 million pounds more of food compared to this time last year, and it translates to almost nine million meals

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.

The State Health Department announced 5 suspected cases of the Acute Flaccid Myelitis virus in New York. So far, 4 of the cases were reported just outside of New York City and a 5th case in Buffalo, Health officials confirmed 39 cases of EV-D68 in children across the state, which is a virus that is linked to Acute Flaccid Myelitis. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention revealed that they are investigating 155 suspected cases of AFM nationwide.

State Police arrested 45 year old James Mumbulo of Edmeston for 27 counts of Overdriving, Torturing and Injuring Animals, after State Police were dispatched to check the welfare of several animals at a rented dairy farm on County Route 20 in Edmeston. Troopers located 27 deceased cow carcasses and several inches of manure, there was no food or water in the barn. After consulting with a veterinarian and the District Attorney’s office, Mumbulo was arrested. He was released on appearance tickets returnable to the town of Edmeston Court on November 19th.

The Chenango County Farm Bureau will hold their 63rd Annual Meeting tonight. The meeting will start at 6:30 PM at the Silo Restaurant in Greene.

Delaware County Sheriff's Department Investigators arrested 35 year old Philip Albergo of Meridale and charged him with Criminal Possession of a Weapon, Unlawfully Dealing With Fireworks and Dangerous Fireworks. Albergo was out on Probation on an unrelated charge, Probation Officers discovered a high capacity ammunition feeding device, which is banned in New York State, they also seized numerous unlawful fireworks. Albergo is being held at the Delaware County Correctional Facility as a Probation Violator, to be arraigned in the Town of Meredith Court on these charges at a later time.

The Town of Hartwick will receive $1 million in grant money from the state for upgrades to the town’s water system. The money will be used to replace water mains, the auxiliary well and the primary well-house building, and to help pay for new mixers for the water storage tank and an emergency backup generator, as well as replacing or repairing water meters.

Delaware County's Clean Sweep Hazardous Waste disposal days are coming up this week, County Solid Waste Coordinator Sue McIntyre comments:

(Sue McIntyre 10-16-18)

The event will allow for county farms, businesses & residents to get rid of items such as paints, pesticides & other house hold chemicals, plus Pharmaceutical Wastes, Sharps & Syringes.

19th Congressional District Candidates will be debating in Walton on Tonight from 6:30 - 8:30 p.m., at the Walton Theater on Gardiner Place. Congressional candidates who have secured a place on the ballot have been invited, including incumbent John Faso and Democratic challenger Antonio Delgado, Green Party candidate Steven Greenfield and Independent Diane Neal. The debate is co-sponsored by the League of Women Voters, the Delaware County Farm Bureau and the Delaware County Chamber of Commerce.

New York state’s health care jobs exceeded 1.2 million in 2017, according to a report released today by State Comptroller Tom DiNapoli. Health care employment rose by more than 18 percent over the past decade, more than double the pace of overall employment growth. DiNapoli’s report found the health care industry in New York provided nearly $71 billion in wages, with an average annual wage of $57,200 in 2017. New York ranked 3rd in the nation for its share of health care jobs.