WCDO Radio News

Delaware County Sheriff’s Office arrested 32-year-old Matthew Rose of Unadilla on a sealed indictment warrant issued by the Delaware County Court, at the time of his arrest, ROSE was in possession of a small amount of marijuana, ROSE was charged with Unlawful Possession of Marijuana, plus 2 counts of Criminal Sale of a Controlled Narcotic, for allegedly selling prescription medications twice in the Village of Sidney. Rose was arraigned and was remanded to the Delaware County Jail on $40,000 cash bail or $80,000 secured bond.

Delaware County Sheriff’s Office executed a search warrant and arrested two residents in the Town of Colchester. Investigators charged 57-year-old Douglas James & 57 year old Karen James of Downsville, for Criminal Possession of Cocaine with the intent to sell, plus Criminal Possession of Marijuana. Investigators seized 1-½ pounds of Marijuana, plus Cocaine, $6,026 in cash, a digital scale, several rifles and Public Assistance Benefit cards. Both were arraigned & were remanded to the Delaware County Jail on $100,000 cash bail or $500,000 property bond.

The State Labor department released the unemployment rate numbers by county, for the month of November today. Locally, Chenango County had 4.8%, Delaware County had 4.9% & Otsego County had 4.3% unemployment, the statewide rate dropped 1 tenth to 5.1% in November.

State Police arrested 62-year-old Charlotte Hart of Bainbridge for Criminal Mischief, Disorderly Conduct & Harassment, after troopers responded to a report of an ongoing argument at the Xtra Mart in the Town of Bainbridge. Hart allegedly entered the store and was upset with a neighbor, who was working inside, and struck the woman in the face and smacked a cell phone from the woman’s hand. Hart was arraigned in the Town of Bainbridge Court and was released without bail being required. An order of protection was issued, she faces court action in the Town of Bainbridge on January 24th.

Governor Cuomo today announced that New York State's Cigarette Strike Force seized 53,307 cartons of contraband cigarettes and 261,220 untaxed cigars in 2016. The combined street value of these items is approximately $5.6 million and the seizures represent a 117% increase in illegal tobacco confiscations. Locally, The Southern Tier had only 4 cartons of illegal cigarettes confiscated, but had over 42,000 illegal cigars confiscated, which was the second highest total in the state behind New York City.

The Oneonta Downtown Revitalization Initiative will hold their 4th meeting of the Local Planning Committee. Oneonta Mayor Gary Herzig said that they must work quickly:

(Mayor Gary Herzig 12-20-16)

Today's meeting is open to the public & will run from 1:00 to 3:00 PM at the Foothills Performing Arts Center.

CDO Workforce and the BEAM Program are offering a free Interviewing Workshop on today, from 10:30 to Noon at the CDO Workforce Center, 2nd Floor, at the Sidney Civic Center. BEAM Spokesman Alan Sessions explains:

(Alan Sessions 12-20-16)

Also scheduled for today, interested residents can meet with BEAM representatives from 1:00 to 2:00 pm at the CDO Workforce Center, 2nd Floor, at the Sidney Civic Center, regarding affordable college and training opportunities. More information is available at 561-7550.

The next Bainbridge Chamber of Commerce General meeting is this morning at 7:30am at Bob's Diner. During this meeting, leaders of local organizations will present their plans for 2017. The meeting is open to the public.

Cornell Cooperative Extension of Delaware County will be conducting NYSERDA’s free energy workshops titled “EMPOWER Save Energy, Save Dollars” at three locations, for those who pre-register through Cornell Cooperative Extension of Delaware County at 865-6531. A new workshop has been scheduled for Monday October 31st at the Opportunities for Otsego from 1:00 to 2:30 pm at 3 West Broadway in Oneonta. Other workshops will be held on November 3rd from 11:30 am to 12:30 pm at the Deposit Senior Meals Site at 14 Monument Street, and on November 7th from 1:00 to 2:30pm at Opportunities for Otsego at 3 West Broadway, Oneonta.

The Delaware County Board of Elections reminds county voters that the general election will be on November 8th this year, with the polls open from 6:00 AM to 9:00 PM. Absentee ballots and sample ballots for the General Election are available at the Board of Elections Office at 3 Gallant Ave., Delhi NY. Absentee ballot applications may be downloaded from co.delaware.ny.us Sample ballots may also be viewed on that website. The Board of Elections Office will be open on Saturday October 29th and Saturday November 5th from 9AM until Noon for absentee voting. More information is available at 832-5321

The Otsego County Chamber of commerce announces that their Education Committee will host a discussion supporting Tourism on Wednesday, November 9, from 8:30 10:00 AM. The event will be held at the Foothills Performing Arts Center on Market Street in Oneonta, NY 13820. Those interested in attending must R.S.V.P by Monday, November 7. More information is available at 432-4500 extension 207.

Attorney General Eric Schneiderman today announced that Cigna Insurance would end its policy of requiring prior authorization for medication-assisted treatment for opioid use disorder. Cigna’s change comes just months after Schneiderman requested that the company provide information about their policies to address concerns about barriers to treatment for opioid use disorder. Schneiderman said that Preauthorization requirements can lead to delays in patients obtaining quick, necessary treatment for addiction.

The Sidney Police Department will have a new Chief sworn in at tonight’s Village Board meeting, and then Jan Gorshack will replace Mike Hood as chief officially Thursday. Gorshack told WCDO news about taking over as the Sidney Police Chief:

(Jan Gorshack 10-14-16)

Gorshack has served in the Sidney Police Department for 23 years, he ran the DARE Program for 20 years, out going Chief Mike Hood will work part time with the Bainbridge Police Department and the Delaware County Sheriffs department.

The Broome County District Attorney’s Office announced that 6 individuals have been arrested as part of a "Major drug trafficking enterprise” The 6 were arrested Sunday following a joint investigation by law enforcement agencies in Binghamton, arrested were Devon Johnson, Ferris Brown, Shawn Perry, Maurice Rollins, Mary Peters, & Andrew Savo. All 6 were arraigned in Binghamton City Court, and were remanded to the Broome County Jail without bail.

Broome County DA Steve Cornwell announced that 32-year-old Christopher Clerveau of Kirkwood, pleaded guilty Friday to charges relating to his involvement in a large-scale drug ring operating in the region by Terrence Wise. Clerveau is scheduled to be sentenced on February 1st.

The International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers at The Amphenol Corporation of Sidney voted to approve their new 3-year contract Saturday. The Union & Amphenol negotiate a new deal every 3 years.

Governor Cuomo today announced that his administration has reached a three-year labor agreement with the New York State Public Employees Federation. PEF is one of the largest unions in the United States and is New York's second-largest state-employee union, representing 54,000 workers. The three-year contract agreement includes a 2 percent increase in 2016-17, 2 percent increase in 2017-18 and a 2 percent increase in 2018-19. Both the state and PEF agree to work together on a plan to reduce out-of-control healthcare costs. Other elements of the contract will be released shortly. The contract must now be approved by its Executive Board and ratified by its membership.

Governor Cuomo today announced that State Park campgrounds set a new record for attendance for the fifth consecutive year. Through Columbus Day, campsites, cabins and cottages across the state were occupied for more than 633,000 nights, surpassing 2015's record of 623,891 nights. State Park camping occupancy has climbed nearly 17 percent since 2009.

The Chenango County Sheriff’s Office has been receiving a large number of larcenies from vehicles over the last couple of weeks. We ask that people remain vigilant and make sure that they do not leave anything of value in their vehicles as well as keeping their vehicles locked. The investigation into these incidents is ongoing and we ask that if anyone has any information on these larcenies to contact the Chenango County Sheriff’s Office at (607)334-2000.

Tickets for the Bainbridge Commitment to Community Dinner will be available for only a few more days. The Dinner will honor the Bainbridge Chamber of Commerce Citizen of the Year; John Payne & Business of the Year: Nana's Keepsakes, it will be held at the Sundown Golf & Country Club on Saturday, October 29th. Tickets for the dinner are available to purchase at the Bainbridge Town Clerk's Office, NBT Bank in Bainbridge, Bob's Diner & Nana's Keepsakes or you can contact Chris Smith @ 967-3005.  Tickets will be available for purchase until Saturday, October 22nd.

NYSERDA’s NY-Sun PV Trainers Network and the Otsego County Planning Department invite all local public officials to attend the Land Use Planning and Zoning for Solar Workshop tonight. The workshop will cover information on current solar topics, including relevant property tax topics related to solar development and agricultural assessments. The presentation will take place at the ETC Room, at the Milford BOCES at 1914 County Route 35, tonight from 6:00 PM to 8:30 PM

2 more blood donation opportunities will be held in Otsego County today. A blood drive will be held in Franklin from 1:30 to 6:30 PM at the Franklin Methodist Church, 101 Main Street, and another will be in Oneonta from 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM at the Fox Hospital Levine Center, at 1 Norton Avenue. Appointments can be made by downloading the Red Cross Blood donor App, online at redcrossblood.org or by calling 1-800-RED CROSS.

The City of Oneonta will be paving the utility trenches at the intersection of Chestnut street & West Street today & tomorrow between the hours of 7:00 AM and 4:00 PM, 2 way traffic will be maintained but traffic delays can be expected, West Street will require closing to through traffic between chestnut & Center during the work hours & detours will be set up along Church Street. More information is available at 432-6465.

The Bainbridge-Guilford Central School will hold a Board of Education Meeting on Tonight in the District Conference Room at 6:30 PM. The business portion of the meeting will start at 7:00 PM.

State Police arrested 43 year old Angel Rodriguez of Long Island, and 25 year old Desiree Hernandez of Brooklyn for criminal possession of stolen property, after a trooper responded to check on the welfare of the occupants of a broken down vehicle on State Route 17 in the Town of Hancock. An investigation determined that the car had been reported stolen on August 6th in New York City. Rodriguez & Hernandez were arraigned in the Town of Hancock court and were remanded to the Delaware County jail. Rodriguez had his bail set at $25,000 cash and Hernandez had her bail set at $15,000.

State Comptroller Tom DiNapoli released a report on student loan debt which found the average New Yorker with college loans owed $32,200 in 2015, higher than the national average of $29,700. Student loan debt more than doubled during the last decade in the state, growing to $82 billion from $39 billion, an increase of 112%. The number of students taking out loans rose sharply in New York over the past 10 years by 41% to 2.8 million. Student loans represented 11.4% of the $722 billion outstanding consumer (or household) debt in New York in 2015. The full report is available at osc.state.ny.us.

A new poll of registered New Yorkers suggests that Hillary Clinton has a big lead over Republican candidate Donald Trump. A Sienna Poll released today shows Clinton with 51% compared to only 30% for Trump. 19% were undecided or favored other candidates.

Another child safety seat check is being held in Oneonta this afternoon. The event will take place from 4:00 to 6:00 PM at the AAA Offices at 195 Oneida Street. Certified technicians will be on hand, more information is available at the Otsego county department of health at 547-4230.

Oneonta Mayor Gary Herzig announced that s steering committee of local shareholders & community leaders has been formed, who will work with urban planners and staff members from the department of state, homes & community Renewal & the governors office. The city received a $10 million dollars Downtown revitalization award through the Mohawk Valley Economic Development regional council, the first meeting of the steering committee will be on September 27th, a time & a place has not yet been announced. The meetings will be open to the public, and time will be allotted for public input.

The Bainbridge Chamber of Commerce announced this years winners of the “Citizen Of The Year” and “Business of the year”. The Citizen of the year is John Payne, the Business of the Year is “Nana’s Keepsakes”, and both will be honored at the annual dinner to be held at the Sundown Golf & Country Club in Guilford on October 29th.

A Broome County jury has found Brendan Barrett not guilty of beating an infant to death. Barrett was originally charged with 2nd-Degree Murder, 1st-Degree Manslaughter, and 2nd-Degree Assault in the December 2013 death of Camryn Davies.

GO-EDC energy sub-committee has scheduled a general interest presentation on this subject for Today, at 4:00 PM in the conference room of the Oneonta Hampton Inn. Dan Sullivan, the Mohawk Valley Region's new outreach coordinator for the Clean Energy Program will be the presenter. The CECP is a NYSERDA program which provides grant opportunities to Clean Energy designated communities of between $100,000 - $250,000 depending on population.

New York State Electric & Gas are making headway in returning power to those who were affected by these weekends’ storms. In Chenango County NYSEG reported that power outages affected just under 700 this afternoon, the majority of affected customers were in New Berlin, Norwich & North Norwich. Otsego County had about 1000 customers without power, scattered through the middle & northern townships. Delaware County had all power restored this afternoon.

Governor Cuomo today announced $13.7 million in grants to support eight critical municipal water infrastructure projects across the Southern Tier. These grants are part of the second round of NYS Water Grants funded through the state’s Water Infrastructure Improvement Act. Locally the villages of Sidney, Delhi & Stamford, &the town of Guilford will receive grants for their drinking water improvement projects.

State Senator Jim Seward joined in the dedication Saturday of the historic Andes Train Depot and announced a $75,000 state grant he secured to help with restoration costs. The capital funding through the State and Municipal Facilities Program has been used to help fund the restoration of the Delaware and Northern Railroad Depot building, it is now the starting point of the Andes Rail Trail.

NYSEG is reporting that hundreds are still without power this morning following the damaging weekend storms. Chenango County had over 1100 without power late this morning, mainly in Norwich, New Berlin & Preston. In Otsego County, over 1300 were without power, scattered mainly in the middle & northern sections, Delaware County had a little over 100 without power, mostly around Andes and Downsville. NYSEG opened a distribution center at the Norwich Fire Department and is handing out free bottled water.

The New York State Health Department today announced that the more than 2.8 million people signed up for health insurance through the end of the 2016 open enrollment period on January 31, 2016. The data show that enrollment in the Marketplace increased by 33 percent, or nearly 700,000 enrollees from the previous enrollment period; 92 percent of those enrolled through the Marketplace report that they did not have health insurance at the time they applied.

The Delaware County Board of Elections will have a voting machine at the Delaware County Fair on Friday August 19 to educate the public on how to vote on the machines. It will be at the Republican Booth from 11am to 3pm and at the Democratic Booth from 3pm to 7pm. They will also have registration forms and absentee applications available.

State Office of General Services Commissioner RoAnn Destito today announced that OGS is hosting a free training seminar meant to familiarize local governments, schools, and nonprofit organizations with the use of new state contracts. The all-day training is scheduled to begin at 10:30 a.m. on Wednesday, August 24 at the Binghamton State Office Building. During the event, purchasing officials will receive a general overview on how to use new OGS contracts. To register for the training or learn more about upcoming training opportunities visit www.nyspro.ogs.ny.gov/roadshow.

The Delaware county board of elections announced that they have sent out their annual yellow mail check cards. Officials said that the cards are returned to the Board, if there is a change of address, & they are not forwarded. Delaware County residents who do not receive the annual cards may be inactive as voters & will need to contact the Board at 832-5321

The 5th annual Mount Upton Community Days will be held Saturday, with town wide garage sales, a chicken barbecue at the Methodist church, and a variety of events in Mount Upton Park on State route 8.more information is available at 316-9601.

Governor Cuomo today announced 30 Smart Schools Investment Plans totaling $39 million have been approved as part of the $2 billion Smart Schools Bond Act. The Act supports investments in education technology that will equip students with the skills they need to thrive and succeed in the global economy. Locally, the Oxford Academy will receive about $1 Million Dollars for High Tech Security & School connectivity project.

The State DEC seized more than 1,100 pounds of undersized lobsters from Price Chopper in 3 different inspections over the last 4 months. The case was sparked in March when short lobsters were found at 2 Price Chopper stores in Binghamton. The distribution center for Price Chopper in Schenectady, & a routine inspection Tuesday, determined that 820 lobsters, or 15% of the inventory, were under the legal size limit. Price Chopper faces fines of up to $100 for every shellfish involved.

The DCMO BOCES Board selected Perry Dewey as the new District Superintendent, to lead 16 component school districts in Delaware, Chenango, Madison and Otsego Counties. The decision is the result of review and interview sessions conducted over a seven-month period. Dewey will be leaving his position as Superintendent of Madison Central School, where he has served for over 4 years.

Norfolk Southern Railroad officials as well as Sidney Village DPW, expect the Main street railroad crossing in Sidney to be open later tonight. This after noon, the last coat of asphalt is being put down.

The State DEC announced that sporting licenses and Deer Management Permits for the 2016-17 season would be available for purchase beginning August 1. Licenses and permits can be purchased at any one of DEC’s license-issuing agents, in person, by telephone, or online. Hunting and trapping licenses are valid for one year beginning September 1st. More information is available at dec.ny.gov.

State Senator Jim Seward announced that $65,000 in grant funds he secured will go to local domestic violence programs. The funding was set aside in the 2016-2017 state budget, with $15,000 going to Opportunities for Otsego & $5,000 for Delaware Opportunities.

The Sidney Chamber of Commerce Arts & Music Festival will be held on MAIN STREET tomorrow. Sidney Chamber President Stephanie Taylor comments:

(Steph Taylor 7-29-16)

WCDO will be broadcasting live during the Car Cruise in Portion of the event, Taylor said that the next Chamber event will be their annual Golf Tournament on August 4th.

Opportunities for Chenango announced that the Literacy Volunteers Program in Chenango County will close on Thursday. Program Director Ellen Hurtubise explains:

(Ellen Hurtubise 6-29-16)

There is a chance that a Literacy program could be extended to Chenango County from the Literacy Volunteers Program of Otsego & Delaware county, according to Program Director Dawn Rogers-Kroll:

(Dawn Rogers Kroll 6-29-16)

Those who would like to volunteer or assist in getting a literacy program to re-open in Chenango COunty can call Rogers-Kroll at 287-0036.

Governor Cuomo will host the first-ever Catskill Summer Challenge with various State leaders competing tomorrow, including rafting, fishing, & biking. Delaware County Chamber President Ray Pucci told WCDO News that this will shine an additional spotlight on the Catskills:

(Ray Pucci 6-29-16)

Tomorrow's Catskill Challenge will end with a reception and presentation of awards, Cuomo hopes to make this & the Adirondack Challenge an annual event that carries on beyong his tenure in Albany.

The Candidates are now set following the 22nd Congressional District Republican Primary Tuesday. Claudia Tenney defeated 2 challengers to get the Republican nomination, Tenney will now take on Democrat Kim Myers of Vestal in the November election.

The Town of Guilford will hold a special meeting of the town board for the purpose of discussing the Guilford Water Project. The meeting will begin at 7:00 PM at the Guilford town Hall on Marble road.

23 Year old Andre Lee of Binghamton was convicted Tuesday afternoon of 2nd-degree murder, assault & criminal possession of a weapon, in the death of 19 year old Scott Wright on July 4, 2014. Wright died 3 days later; Sentencing for Lee is scheduled for September 21st.

Last year, Governor Cuomo announced the launch of the first annual Catskill Challenge to promote tourism in the region during the Ride the Catskills motorcycle ride. With the Catskill Challenge set to take place Thursday, cabinet officials will hop on their motorcycles and kick-off the festivities a day early with the second Ride the Catskills Today. At 10:00 AM, Ride the Catskills starts at the Windham Mountain Ski Resort, and concludes with a reception in Roscoe.

Delaware County Public Health will be providing a Car Seat Safety Event at the 8th Annual Children’s Festival at Delaware Opportunities, State Highway 10, in Hamden today from 10:00 AM to 1:00 PM. 73% of car seats are not used or installed correctly; Nationally certified child passenger safety technicians will be there to teach parents how to correctly install and use your child’s safety or booster seat. More information is available at 832-5200.

State fair officials announced that the Rock band “Daughtry” fronted by singer Chris Daughtry provides the final 8:00 PM show of the 2016 Chevy Court concert season, on Sunday, September 4th. This year, the Chevy Court will have 23 free shows as part of the Fair's lineup of entertainment & activities. The state fair runs from August 25th to September 5th this year.

The village of Unadilla will hold their annual Flag Day parade &they will follow that with a dedication of their new veterans memorial tonight. Unadilla Village Mayor Dave Welch explains:

(Dave Welch 6-14-16)

Mayor Welch said that those interested in being in the parade should begin lining up between 5:30 & 6:00 PM, the parade should start at 7:00 PM and the ceremony will begin at approximately 7:45 PM.

Governor Cuomo & state lawmakers have a few issues left to deal with in the last days of the 2016 session. Cuomo specifically mentioned Combating the heroin epidemic; increasing access to breast cancer screening and treatment; Passing comprehensive ethics reform; Combating Citizens United; and Updating the Alcohol Beverage Control Law.

The Town of Unadilla Board meeting originally scheduled for today has been rescheduled for this Thursday at 6:30 PM at the Unadilla town hall on State route 7. The meeting was moved in order to avoid interference with the Village Flag Day Parade.

The Delaware county sheriffs department responded to a 3-car personal injury accident in Stamford yesterday. 23-year-old Kevin Matthew of New City crossed the double yellow line on State Route 23, striking a vehicle operated by 37-year-old William Eklund of Stamford. The force of the collision forced Eklund's vehicle to hit a parked car, which was occupied by 62-year-old Margaret Smith of Otego. All involved were taken to Fox Hospital in Oneonta for treatment, Mathew was ticketed for failure to keep right, speed not reasonable & Prudent, he will face court action on June 27th.

State Police responded to the report Sunday night of a man who jumped off of a highway overpass onto Interstate 88 in Oneonta, in an apparent suicide attempt. The victim was airlifted to Wilson Hospital in Johnson City with a variety of injuries; the victims name & address are not being released.

Governor Cuomo & state leaders announced an agreement on legislation to improve rail safety measures across New York State. The agreement includes a series of initiatives that will reduce the risk of train-motor vehicle collisions at grade crossings across the State. The new initiatives will require coordinated, frequent inspections of traffic control devices at highway-rail crossings and impose penalties on railroad companies and repeat offender drivers who continue to disobey the law and ignore important safety requirements.

The New York State Office of General Services will hold a surplus vehicle auction today at Troop C State Police Headquarters on State Route 7 starting at 9:30 AM. information on specific items and terms of sale, please visit www.nysstore.com.

The American Red Cross has scheduled blood drives today. Upcoming blood donation opportunities are in New Berlin from 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM at Golden Artist Colors, at 188 Bell Road, another is in Norwich from 1:00 to 6:00 PM at the Norwich VFW Post at 61-63 East Main Street. Appointments can be made with the Red Cross Blood Donor App, at 1-800 RED CROSS or at Red Cross Blood.org.

Another free rabies clinic will be held in Otsego County today. The clinic will be held at the Edmeston Town Barn from 6:00 until 8:00 PM, for dogs & cats.

Governor Cuomo today announced that State Police issued 11,946 tickets as a result of increased enforcement efforts during the Memorial Day Weekend 2016. State Troopers arrested 224 people for DWI and investigated 170 personal injury accidents, which resulted in 229 people injured. Three people were killed in three separate fatal motor vehicle accidents over the holiday weekend. Troopers issued a total of 11,946 tickets during the Memorial Day Weekend campaign, including 3,424 for speeding, 358 for distracted driving and 2, 173 for seat belt violations.

Oneida Healthcare and Bassett Healthcare Network announce their intention to pursue a partnership agreement aimed at enhancing the delivery of health care services in the Oneida region, with a strong emphasis on population health management and expanded access to primary care. The agreement will provide opportunities to exchange best practices that reduce costs and provide better outcomes for patients.

Binghamton Police arrested 31-year-old Lamont Weaver of Binghamton for attempted murder. Weaver is accused of stabbing the victim in the stomach multiple times and once in the head on Saturday at 8 Crandall Street, the victim is in critical condition at an area hospital, weaver is being held pending court action.

State Police & Oneonta Police arrested 30-Year-old Kurtis Breed of Oneonta for criminal tampering and criminal mischief. Breed is accused of throwing eggs & Hash Brown potatoes at the windows of 2 Oneonta Businesses, after those 2 businesses owners rebuffed his ideas for business dealings between those businesses & his business "Breed Fitness" of Oneonta. He faces court action later this month to answer to the charges.

Officials with Rock in the Park looking to add vendors for the July 9th event, which features a full line up of talent according to organizer Jason Hall:

(Jason Hall 6-1-16)

Vendors interested in setting up at Rock in the Park at General Clinton Park in Bainbridge can call 972-6526 for more information. This year's proceeds will benefit the Chenango County SPCA.

The Village of Sidney announced that the Annual Water Quality Report is now available online. The report can be accessed at the link on the village of Sidney .org website, hard copies are also available at the Village offices at the civic center, by request at 561-2324.

Chenango County Department of Public Works announced that they have closed a bridge on County Road 8 between County Road 10 and Brown-Gale Road, in the Town of Pharsalia today. The closure will be in place until the required bridge reconstruction work is completed, local traffic will be allowed access to their homes, however, they will be required to travel away from the immediate area of the project for the closure period. More information is available at 337-1710.

State Police arrested 30-year-old Jacqueline Graves of Otego, for operating a motor vehicle while impaired by drugs, aggravated unlicensed operation, resisting arrest, criminal possession of a controlled substance, use of a motor vehicle without an interlock device and other traffic violations. This arrest occurred after a trooper observed Graves crossing a road hazard on State Route 7 in Otego. Graves pulled away from police and ran a short distance before being grabbed by the trooper. Graves unlawfully possessed heroin and did not have a court ordered interlock device installed on her ignition. Graves was arraigned and was remanded to the Otsego County jail on $2000 cash bail or $4000 property bond, pending court action on June 9th.

State Police responded to a motorcycle accident on State Route 17C, in the Town of Owego. An investigation determined that 35-year-old Justin King of Owego was driving his motorcycle with his wife 34-year-old Tonya King as a rear passenger; he was unable to avoid a deer in the roadway and crashed after striking it. Both were transported to Packer Hospital in Sayre, Tonya King was pronounced dead due to head trauma. Justin King was treated for multiple minor injuries; Troopers reported that both were wearing helmets. The investigation is ongoing.

The State DOT announced that construction work for the Prospect Mountain construction project will be performed today. I-81 northbound/State Route 17 westbound will be reduced to 1 lane between Exit 3 & 4S for pavement marking and overhead sign work for a long-term traffic pattern change at Exit 4. Exit 4S will be closed long term for the construction of a new ramp. Drivers will be detoured through side streets.

The 1st Pine Ridge Grocery Dash For Cash race from Sidney to Bainbridge was run last night on the Susquehanna River. C2 winners were Ben Schlimmer & Trevor Lefever of Oneonta, Schlimmer told WCDO’s Nate Lull at the finish line that they started slow:

(Ben Schlimmer 5-25-16)

Lefever described the river conditions for the race:

(Trevor Lefever 5-25-16)

The C1 winner was Matt Rudnitsky of Gilbertsville described the experience:

(Matt Rudnitsky 5-25-16)

The Mixed C2 winning team was Mary Schlimmer & Pat Madden.

Chenango County area fire departments responded to a barn fire on Newton Road in Pharsalia just after 4:00 PM yesterday At Balsam View Dairy Farm. Fire fighters from Pharsalia, McDonough, and McGraw responded, no injuries were reported, but several cows were killed in the blaze. The cause of the fire is still under investigation.

The Town of Unadilla Highway Department announced that they will be paving Ben McCumber Road Today. The paving project will start at 6:30 AM and is expected to be completed at around 4:30 PM.

Delaware County Emergency Services has been notified that many residents in the hamlet of Bloomville and the immediate surrounding area in the Town of Kortright who have landline phone service through Verizon have been without phone service for an extended period of time, which includes the inability to dial 911 in the event of an emergency. If this outage is affecting you, or you know of someone being affected by this outage, please call the Delaware County Emergency Services Office at 607-832-5600.

Delaware County Public Health is offering free one day training today from 8:30am-3:00 PM at SUNY Delhi, for therapists, parents, and educators. The morning session “Get Your Game On!” explores the power for play-based instruction through the implementation of cooperative learning games and identify the developmental benefits for individuals. The afternoon session titled Sensational Sensory Experiences-Enhancing Learning Opportunities through Sensory Play, to recognize the benefits of intentionally creating sensory experiences for individuals with sensory needs. Each session has includes “make and takes”, all supplies are provided.

Broome County Sheriff’s department reported that 1 person was killed when a disabled Jeep was struck by a tractor-trailer at 1:30 this morning on state Route 17 near Windsor. Deputies reported that a disabled Jeep stopped in the right lane of the highway was rear-ended by a tractor trailer, the Jeep & the tractor Trailer both went over an embankment. The Jeep's driver was pronounced dead at the scene, the identity of the driver has not been released pending family notification. The tractor trailer driver suffered head injuries and was taken to Wilson Memorial Hospital, the investigation is continuing.

Convicted Murderer 46 year old David Dart has been denied parole, Dart was convicted in Otsego County Court of fatally stabbing Gillian Gibbons of Milford in 1989 her body was found in her car in the lower level of the Oneonta Municipal Parking Garage. Dart will continue to serve a prison term of 25 years to life.

Oneonta Police arrested two residents on burglary & grand larceny charges. 44-year-old Courtney Griffin & 54 year old Joanne Roberts of Oneonta allegedly broke into a college student's apartment on Main Street & stole over $3,000 worth of property. The two were charged with the 2nd degree burglary & 3rd degree grand larceny plus criminal mischief, they face court action shortly.

The Broome County Sheriff’s Office arrested 26-year-old Jennifer Hinman of Sidney following a burglary investigation in the town of Sanford. Hinman is accused of unlawfully entering a home & taking property from the home on May 18th. Hinman was charged with 2nd degree burglary, she was arraigned in Fenton town court and released on her own recognizance.

There are only about 3 weeks to go for the current session of the state Legislature, and there seems to be little talk about ethics reforms, even after the convictions & sentencing of recent leaders of both houses. Assemblyman Pete Lopez explains:

(Lopez 5-26-16)

Legitimate topics of discussion in the final weeks include economic development, Job creation & tackling the Heroin & Opioid crisis.

The Binghamton Mets announced NYSEG Stadium would go tobacco-free starting in the 2017 season. Inside the gates, fans will no longer be allowed to use cigarettes, cigars, smokeless tobacco, e-cigarettes nor vaporizers. Tobacco users will have a special smoking area at all games outside the gates of the stadium. The tobacco-free policy will go into effect on Opening Day in April 2017.

The State Economic Development Council announced that Otsego Now has been named a recipient of several 2016 Marketing, Literature and Promotion Awards. The awards will be presented at the Awards Banquet Tonight at the 2016 NYSEDC Annual Meeting in Cooperstown. Otsego Now was honored as Best in Class for its fiscal year 2014 Annual Report, & they received a Certificate of Excellence for its Workforce Training Center brochure, and an Honorable Mention for its web site at www.otsegonow.com.

Supporters came from all over to show their support for the residents of Islamberg in the town of Tompkins, as a group of Bikers known as the "American Bikers United Against Jihad" planned a rally, against the Muslim group who have been targeted in certain media as being a terrorist training ground. Julia Reischel of the Watershed Post was at yesterday's rally; she told WCDO News that the rally was a lot smaller than expected:

(Julia Reischel 5-16-16)

Reischel said that state Troopers & Delaware County Sheriff’s deputies were on hand to insure the safety of the community & the supporters. Islamberg had also been targeted by Robert Doggart of Tennessee, who vowed to get a militia together to burn down the community and kill the residents; he was arrested earlier this year by the FBI for making terrorist threats.

Tomorrow is school budget vote day across the state. Locally, 2 area school districts managed to lower the tax levy slightly; they were the Milford & Afton School Districts. School that have the tax levy unchanged from last year are Walton, Delhi, Charlotte VALLEY, Deposit, Oxford Academy, Laurens, Gilbertsville Mount Upton, & Morris. Slight increases in the tax levy were in Unatego, Bainbridge Guilford, Oneonta, increases of 1% or more are proposed in the Unadilla VALLEY & Norwich Districts, 2% or more were proposed in Sidney, Greene & Franklin and more than 3% increases were proposed in Harpursville & Windsor. State officials said that the tax cap for the tri-county region was tabulated at roughly 1%.
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Voting for the BG school district residents on the Budget & for the School Board seats will be held in the Bainbridge & Guilford town Halls this year. Voting will be from 12:00 Noon until 9:00 PM.

Johnson City Police Patrolman Lou Cioci was presented the Congressional Medal of Valor by President Barack Obama this morning at the White House. Cioci was recognized for his actions on March 31st 2014, after fellow Johnson City Police Officer David Smith was shot and killed on Harrison Street, as Patrolman Cioci arrived, he opened fire on the gunman, hitting him several times, The injured gunman tackled Cioci, attempting to grab his service weapon, Cioci shot the man twice more during the confrontation, ending the attack.

State Police arrested 47-year-old Albert Hughes of the town of Maryland for Aggravated DWI with a B.A.C. result of .23%, plus other traffic tickets. The arrest occurred after troopers responded to an Otsego County 911 report of a one-vehicle property damage accident on State route 7 in the Town of Oneonta. Hughes drove into a guide rail and caused damage, he was issued tickets returnable to the Town of Oneonta on May 24th.

Delaware County Sheriff Deputies arrested 40-year-old Ian Lyle of Unadilla on one count of DWI following an investigation of a one-car motor vehicle accident in the Town of Sidney. Lyle was additionally charged with making an unsafe lane change and was released on tickets returnable to Sidney Town Court at a later date.

Governor Cuomo today announced $20 million in federal funding to support the State's efforts to get unemployed New Yorkers back to work. The grant is the largest awarded to any state and exceeds last year’s total of $18 million. The southern tier will receive $818,516 in federal support.

Governor Cuomo announced that he is advancing legislation to end the HIV/AIDS epidemic in New York State. The legislation would Increase the number of individuals who will be linked to and remain in care by allowing HIV-related information to be shared with care managers. It would Streamline HIV testing efforts and extends the upper age limit of the beyond the current age of 64. It would Make clear that minors have the right to obtain life-saving HIV treatment and preventive services without parental consent & it would Expand the opportunities for STD screening and access to post exposure prophylaxis to prevent infection.

Congressman Chris Gibson announced the passage of 18 bills aimed at combating heroin and opioid abuse. The Comprehensive Addiction and Recovery Act would improve the use of opioid therapy and pain management in treating veterans; amends federal law to impose penalties for extraterritorial drug trafficking and production of precursor chemicals used for illegal drugs; clarifies when a prescription for a drug like oxycodone may be partially filled; & amends the Controlled Substances Act to expand access to medication-assisted treatment for people suffering from addiction.

Oneonta City Officials announced that crews will be milling & paving Water Street & Chestnut Street Extension today & tomorrow. There will be no on street parking, all vehicles must be removed by 6:00 AM, and remaining vehicles will be towed away. More information is available at 432-6465.

Firefighters responded on at about 1:30 Sunday afternoon to a Structure Fire on Dunk Hill Road in Walton. Walton Firefighters received aid from Franklin, Delhi, Trout Creek, Bovina & Otego. Walton Fire fighters reported that the Fire was Called in by an alarm company, as a small fire in the wall of the building on the 2nd floor, the fire spread to the roof. The fire was under control at about 6:00 PM, no injuries were reported. Walton Firefighters were called back to the site at about 11:30 this morning for the report of a rekindle.

State Police arrested 21-year-old William Holden of Bainbridge for felony criminal contempt and 3rd degree Assault. The arrest occurred after troopers were advised of a dispute that happened in a vehicle on State Route 206 in the Town of Bainbridge, where Holden allegedly struck the victim in the face causing an injury. Holden violated a court order of protection; he was arraigned in the Town of Bainbridge court and was remanded to the Chenango County jail in lieu of $2,500 cash bail or $5,000 property bond.

Governor Cuomo today directed the State Department of Health to expand free Zika virus testing to all pregnant women who, during their pregnancy, had unprotected sex with a partner who traveled to an area with ongoing Zika virus transmission. This expansion comes as the Department is investigating 1 case of possible sexual transmission of the Zika virus, and the federal Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has published reports of increasing numbers of confirmed and probable sexual transmission of Zika virus, including several involving pregnant women. To date The State Lab at the Wadsworth Center in Albany has conducted tests on samples from more than 1,400 patients and 40 have been found to be positive, those infected patients have been returning travelers from countries where Zika virus is ongoing.

Attorney General Eric Schneiderman issued a consumer alert today for National Consumer Protection Week, reminding New Yorkers to protect themselves against recurring government “imposter” phone scams. These scams often target seniors, students, and first-generation Americans. Recent scams include callers posing as a representative from the Attorney General’s office, the IRS, or as officers of the court regarding alleged missed Jury Duty & the threat of arrest or other penalties. Schneiderman said that New Yorkers should also report instances of fraud to ag.ny.gov or 1-800-771-7755.

The New York State Senate today passed a resolution honoring Mike Piazza for his impending induction into the National Baseball Hall of fame this summer. Piazza will be inducted with a New York Mets cap on his plaque, for his 7 1/2 years as a member of the team, which won the National League championship in 2000. Piazza spent part of Tuesday at the National Baseball Hall of Fame & Museum at Cooperstown before visiting the state Capital today. A copy of the resolution can be found at nysenate.gov/legislation/resolutions.

The Delaware County Sheriff’s Department announced that there will be a fundraiser this Sunday in Walton, to support their K9 Unit, which has been an integral part of the County's crackdown on Drug dealers in the County. The fundraise will be held on Sunday at Danny's Restaurant at 14 Gardiner Place in Walton from 12:00 noon until 7:00 PM, donations can be made by check to Delaware County Sheriff Tom Mills, with "K9 Drug Fund" in the memo box. More information about the fundraiser can be directed to Danny's restaurant at 865-8496.

The Sidney Chamber of Commerce is accepting the nominations for Citizen of the Years & Business of the Years through tomorrow. Sidney Chamber President Stephanie Taylor comments:

(Steph Taylor 3-10-16)

More information is available at the newly revamped website, Sidney chamber.org or by calling 561-2642

Governor Cuomo announced that $2.4 million has been distributed to 100 organizations that provide employment services to individuals with disabilities via the New York State Employment Services System. This funding is part of the Governor’s Employment First Initiative to increase employment opportunities for individuals with disabilities, decrease the poverty rate of those with disabilities; and encourage businesses to establish formal policies to hire people with disabilities.

The Otsego county Chamber of Commerce will offer the Leadership Otsego program, which is accepting applications for the class of 2016. Leadership Otsego is a program that kicks off in April and engages emerging and existing leaders in a 6-month program that sharpens leadership skills. An informational session will be held today at 6:00 PM at Roots Brewing Company on Main Street, Oneonta. More information is available at 432-4500