WCDO Radio News

P.M. NEWS WEDNESDAY 6-11-25

The Delaware County Board of Supervisors approved of a plan to safeguard an original County landfill cell, County Solid Waste Manager Tyson Robb Explains:

(Tyson Robb 6-11-25)

Robb said that the project has been slowed down somewhat with all of the rain in the County since the start of the project.

Otsego County Sheriff's Office has responded to the scene of a car crashing into a tree in the Village of Milford at about 1:00 PM today on State Route 28. The Otsego County Sheriff's Office, Otsego County EMS and the Milford Fire Department were currently at the scene, initial reports suggest that the car left the roadway and struck a tree. Traffic may be delayed in that area for clean up & accident reconstruction work.

The Delaware County Sheriff's Office is seeking the public's assistance in locating 39 year old Stephanie White, who is wanted on a probation violation. White is described as a white female, about 5'1" with brown hair & hazel eyes, anyone with information should call 607-832-5555 or go to "Submit A Tip" on the Sheriff's Office App.

The Afton Central School District closed at 11:30 this morning & all after school activities are canceled. The water in Afton was discolored or dirty, the Village of Afton Public Works Department told WCDO News that there was no water main break, but road crews using jack hammers adversely affected the quality of the water earlier today, it should clear up and there is NO order to boil water in effect.

A.M. NEWS WEDNESDAY 6-11-25

Delaware County Public Health, the New York National Guard and State Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services, is hosting a Citizen Preparedness Training Event today in Walton, DCPH Spokesperson Isabella Ziolkowski comments:

(Isabella Ziolkowski 6-11-25)

This event is free and open to the public. Registration is required to attend, call Delaware County Public Health at 607-832-5200. The event will be held from 6:00PM – 7:30PM at the New Hope Community Church, 45 Stockton Avenue, Walton.

37 year old Daniel Klenchik pleaded guilty to Tampering with a Witness in Broome County Court, he made a threatening video phone call to intimidate a victim involved in his pending criminal case, while he was incarcerated at the Broome County Jail, Klenchik will be sentenced to 2 to 4 years in New York State Prison on July 18.

State Police will be hosting a car seat check today, from 3:00pm to 7:00pm at the Troop C Headquarters on State Route 7 between Sidney & Unadilla. State Police car seat technicians will check if the seat is installed properly or if there are any recalls with the current seat you have. If possible, bring the child that will be sitting in the seat to make sure they are in the correct seat for their age, weight and height. Call Troop C with any questions at (607)561-7604.

The Delaware County Business Alliance reminds members to Nominate your favorite businesses for the annual Business Awards. All nominees must be Delaware County Business Alliance members, Nominations may be made in three categories: Business of the Year, Rising Star New Business, and Business Advocate. The Awards will be presented at the annual business award dinner in August. More information is available at delawarecounty.org.

The American Red Cross will have a Blood Drive today from 9 am. - 2 pm., at the Downsville Fire Department, 15166 State Highway 30, Schedule a time to give now by visiting RedCrossBlood.org, calling 1-800-RED CROSS or by using the Red Cross Blood Donor App.

P.M. NEWS MONDAY 5-12-25

Otsego County Sheriff's Office arrested 28 year old Ryan Oltjenbruns of Unadilla for 2nd 7 3rd Degree Assault, Harassment & Endangering the Welfare of a Child, following a domestic incident in the Town of Unadilla. Oltjenbruns allegedly engaged in a physical domestic dispute with a family member in the presence of a minor, by striking the victim in the face, causing serious injury. The victim was transported to Bassett Hospital and later to Albany Medical Center for additional medical treatment, Oltjenbruns was taken in to custody and processed at the Otsego County Sheriff’s Office, he was arraigned & was released on his own recognizance and issued an order of protection was issued on behalf of the the victim.

Terrell Heyward of Binghamton, pleaded guilty to 2nd degree Murder in Broome County Court and he faces a sentence of up to life in State Prison. On January 11th, Binghamton Police Department responded to 21 Exchange Street, for a report of shots fired, Sarah Hauer was pronounced dead at the scene. Heyward faces Sentencing on August 6th in Broome County Court.

Otsego County Sheriff's Office arrested 33 year old Robert Harris of New Lisbon for 2 counts of Criminal Contempt Friday, following an investigation in to allegations of domestic violence in the Town of New Lisbon. Investigation revealed that during the month of February Harris located a family member at a residence in the Town of Pittsfield and placed the victim in fear for their life by brandishing a baseball bat, he violated a court order prohibiting him from contacting the victim. Harris was located in New Berlin and taken in to custody without incident, he was processed at the Otsego County Sheriff’s Office and turned over to correctional staff for Arraignment.

Delaware County Public Health, the New York National Guard and New York State Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services, is hosting a Citizen Preparedness Training Event on Wednesday, June 11th, Isabella Ziolkowski of Delaware County Public Health explains:

(Isabella Ziolkowski 5-12-25)

This event is free and open to the public. Each family that attends will receive a free preparedness kit. Registration is required to attend, call Delaware County Public Health at 607-832-5200. The event will be held from 6:00PM – 7:30PM at the New Hope Community Church, 45 Stockton Avenue, Walton.

A.M. NEWS Monday 5-12-25

54 year old Jason Burress of Bainbridge appeared in Delaware County Court last week & was sentenced to 6 months in jail. Sidney Police initiated a traffic stop in Sidney on July 11, 2024, Burress was believed to be impaired by drugs, lab test showed that Burress was impaired by methamphetamine. Burress pleaded guilty in April to Driving While Ability Impaired by Drugs, he will serve his term at the Delaware County Correctional Facility.

Oneida County Sheriff's Deputy Aaron Alshaman has been charged with 4 counts of attempted murder and 1 count of Arson, he allegedly set a home on fire on April 9th, while his infant child, the child's mother and her parents were inside. All occupants escaped without injury, an Oneida County Grand Jury has indicted Alshaman on the charges, he faces arraignment on the Grand Jury Indictment shortly.

Otsego County Sheriff's Office arrested 39 year old Michael Andreoli of Exeter, for Criminal Contempt, following an investigation into a 2 car personal injury motor vehicle accident. Andreoli was found to be violating a full stay away order of protection protecting the passenger in the vehicle, he was arrested and held for Arraignment.

Chenango County Department of Public Works announced the closure of the bridge on North Chenango Street over Birdsall Brook in Greene will be closed on May 12th, and will remain closed for 3 to 5 months. Local residents will be allowed to get to and from their homes. More information is available at 337-1710.

P.M. NEWS MONDAY 4-28-25

The State Budget is now 28 days late, with the reform of the state's Discovery Laws as one of the sticking points, local Assemblyman Joe Angelino explains:

(Joe Angelino 4-28-25)

Governor Hochul has publicly stated that she wants the Discovery Law Reforms, but those changes are unpopular with New York City Area Lawmakers and leadership.

Sidney’s Annual Arbor Day celebration will be held tomorrow morning with Sidney Central School Students participating in the ceremony, ending with a giveaway of saplings, Sidney Shade Tree Commission chairperson Lorrie Roach explains:

(Lorrie Roach 4-28-25)

Roach said that a tree planting dedication will also be scheduled, this year in honor of Mike Gavin.

The Bainbridge Girl Scout are holding another free Community giveaway with the drop off of gently used items to be held on Friday at the Greenlawn Elementary School from 3:30-6:30, and the giveaway of those items will be on Saturday from 9:00 AM to 12:00 Noon.

State DEC announced that the regular spring turkey season for all licensed turkey hunters opens May 1st, Spring turkey harvests average 16,000 to 18,000 birds, Sporting licenses may be purchased online at any time, Licenses can also be displayed digitally using the HuntFishNY mobile app, licenses are also available in person at more than 1,100 Agents across the State, For more information about sporting licenses, dec.ny.gov.

A.M. NEWS MONDAY 4-28-25

Chenango Sheriff Office arrested 47 year old Andrew Harris of Plymouth for Obstructing Fire Fighting Operations, Reckless Endangerment of Property, Unlawful Imprisonment. Harris was arrested after deputies determined he would not let fire department personnel extinguish a house fire in the Town of Plymouth. Harris was found standing in his driveway in close proximity to a fully involved house fire, he aggressive yelled at emergency personnel and failed to obey lawful orders, Deputies also determined that Harris committed crimes the night before against his girlfriend during a domestic incident, he was arraigned & released on his own recognizance.

Chenango Sheriff office arrested 38 year old Nicholas Partis of Cortland for Grand Larceny, after a complaint was filed by a local business. Deputies were dispatched to a local business, they obtained a license plate number and vehicle description. While deputies were reviewing camera footage, the Village of Oxford Police Department located the vehicle and initiated a traffic stop. Deputies responded to Oxford and positively identified Partis, he was arrested & was released on an appearance ticket and is due to appear in the Town of Norwich Court at a later date.

A Citizen Preparedness Training Event will be held today at 6:00 PM in Margaretville at the Town Hall, hosted by Delaware County Public Health, with representatives from the New York National Guard & The State Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services. Isabella Ziolkowski of Delaware County Public Health explains:

(Isabella Ziolkowski 4-11-24)

This event is free and open to the public, Ziolkowski said that they are planning to do additional training events in Walton & Sidney as soon as possible.

Former Major League Manager Buck Showalter, who managed both the Yankees & the Mets, will be the was announced as the keynote speaker at the 10th Greater Binghamton Sports Hall of Fame Induction Class today, The Hall of Fame ceremony is set for April 28 at the Double Tree Hotel in Binghamton, starting at 6:30 this evening.

The New York Theatre Ballet will present their "Once Upon A Ballet" series at the Chenango Arts Council's Martin W. Kappel Theater in Norwich Saturday night, spokesperson Mary Beth Miller explains:

(MARY BETH MILLER 4-11-25)

The ballet will be at 7:00 PM Saturday night, more information about this and other performances are available at chenangoarts.org

Delaware County Public Health is scheduling Rabies vaccination clinics, following the recent report of the first rabid animal of the year in Masonville last week. The next clinic will be held in Sidney on May 5, from 5:30PM-7:30PM, at the Sidney Fire Hall at 74 River Street. More information about rabies can be found at delawarecountypublichealth.com

State Comptroller Tom DiNapoli's auditors found that New York state bought hundreds of millions of dollars' worth of medical equipment at the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, that now sits unused in storage facilities. To compete for the purchase of the medical equipment at the start of the pandemic, Then Governor Cuomo took emergency steps to accelerate the procurement process, inconsistent with Office of General Services guidance. DiNapoli's auditors determined the state paid $452.8 million to purchase 247,343 Medical items & machines, only 324 of those items were distributed, the audit recommends that the state distribute the items to hospitals & medical providers who may be able to use them, and stop paying for excessive storage fees for those items.

A.M. NEWS FRIDAY 4-11-25

Registration for the 4th annual Nate Lull Scholarship Golf Tournament is now underway, for the tournaments to be held at the Ouleout Creek Golf Course in Franklin, Lull told WCDO news that interested golfers should sign up as soon as possible:

(Nate Lull 4-11-25)

Golfers can go to Nate Lull.com, click on the golf tournament banner on the homepage. All proceeds go to Nate’s scholarship, which has handed out just under $50-thousand dollars in its first 3 years, including money going to the Class of 2025.

A Citizen Preparedness Training Event will be held on Monday, April 28th in Margaretville at the Town Hall, hosted by Delaware County Public Health, with representatives from the New York National Guard & The State Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services. Isabella Ziolkowski of Delaware County Public Health explains:

(Isabella Ziolkowski 4-11-24)

This event is free and open to the public, they can register by calling 607-832-5200, Ziolkowski said that they are planning to do additional training events in Walton & Sidney as soon as possible.

New York State residents are reminded to learn about the different types of driver’s licenses, available through the Department of Motor Vehicles. A REAL ID will be required for domestic air travel and access to certain federal buildings starting May 7th, an Enhanced Driver's License serves as a REAL ID compliant document that allows for land and sea travel to Canada, Mexico, and Caribbean without the need for a passport. A Standard License is still available but can’t be used for domestic air travel or entry into certain federal buildings after May 7th. For more information, visit your local DMV office or visit DMV.NY.gov.

The Chenango County Historical Society will host an unveiling of the recently refurbished “special edition” marker at Rogers Environmental Education Center at 10:45 am. on April 25. the “Game Farm” plaque is situated roadside along Route 80 in the town of Sherburne. The unveiling is being held on National Historic Marker Day to honor the New York State Department of Transportation sign crew who refurbished the sign, for more information, go to ChenangoHistorical.org.

P.M. NEWS TUESDAY 10-8-24

23 year old Dakota Mann of Walton pleaded guilty in Delaware County Court Monday to 3rd degree Assault & Criminal Contempt. On May 17, 2024, Delaware County Sheriff’s Deputies were dispatched to a residence in Walton for an ongoing domestic, where the caller & 1 other person claimed to have been assaulted by Mann, who violated an order of protection. Mann was remanded to the Delaware County Correctional Facility. On July 1, 2024, while incarcerated, Mann assaulted & injured a fellow inmate, Mann was additionally charged with 2nd degree Assault. Mann faces sentencing on December 9th to 1 1/2 to 3 years in state prison for Criminal Contempt, and 1 year for Assault.

The Sidney Veterans' Memorial Park Annual Bowling Fundraiser is coming up at East Main Lanes in Sidney in November, Park President Doug Barnard explains:

(Doug Barnard 10-8-24)

The Bowling Fundraiser will be on the weekends of November 2nd & 9th, more information about the Sidney Veterans' Memorial Park is available at SVMPA.org.

Governor Kathy Hochul today announced that 221 State and local government workers have been deployed to North Carolina, South Carolina and Georgia to help with response and recovery efforts following Hurricane Helene. Team members include staff from the National Guard, Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services, Department of Transportation, DEC, State Police, Department of Agriculture and Markets, among many others. State Agencies are also gearing up deployment top Florida following the expected devastation from as Hurricane Milton heads towards Florida.

The Delaware County Chamber of Commerce announced that Drivers are able to reduce the cost of their auto insurance coverage by taking a Defensive Driving Course offered at the Chamber Business Center in Delhi on Tuesday, October 22 from 10:00 am to 4:00 pm in the Meeting Room at 5 ½ Main Street in Delhi. The course fee is $35 and attendance is limited to 20 people. Advance registration is required and may be completed by calling Sherry Stewart at 607.538.9632.

A.M. NEWS Tuesday 10-8-24

Otsego County Sheriff's Office arrested 35 year old Richie Rodriguez of Bronx for Criminal Possession of Stimulant, Criminal Possession of Controlled Substance, Criminal Use of Drug Paraphernalia, Aggravated Unlicensed Operation and a host of traffic tickets following an investigation after a traffic stop on State Highway 7 in the Town of Otego. Rodriguez was processed and held at the Otsego County Correctional Facility pending Arraignment.

A man and a woman were arrested in an assault on former Governor David Paterson and his stepson, Friday Night in New York City. Paterson & Anthony Sliwa were treated for minor injuries, 2 adults, a 12 year old & a 13 year old were all charged with gang assault and assault.

Broome County Sheriff’s Office Road Patrol observed motorcycle without a license plate on I-81, a traffic Stop was initiated, the operator failed to comply onto Colesville Road to State Route 17, the motorcycle eventually had a mechanical failure and came to a stop. 29 year old Trae Salisbury of Binghamton had an unsecured dog on his lap throughout the pursuit, deputies secured the dog and placed Salisbury under arrest for Unlawful Fleeing a Police Officer in a Motor Vehicle, Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance, Obstruction of Governmental Administration, Carrying an Animal in a Cruel Manner & Numerous traffic violations. Salisbury was processed at the Broome County Sheriff’s Office and issued appearance tickets returnable to the Town of Kirkwood Court. The dog was transported back to its owner.

Delaware County Public Health will hold a free Rabies Vaccination Clinic for dogs, cats, and ferrets today from 5:30PM to 7:30PM, at the Deposit Highway Garage. More information about rabies is available at (607) 832-5200.

P.M. NEWS TUESDAY 10-1-24

The U.S. Small Business Administration has announced the availability of low interest loans related to storm damage caused by the remnants of tropical Storm Debby, August 8-10. Low-interest disaster loans will be made available to certain Private Non-Profit organizatIons, such as food kitchens, homeless shelters, museums, libraries, community centers, schools and colleges. Eligible PNPs can call the Delaware County Emergency Services Office at (607) 832-5600 or the Delaware County Planning Office (607) 832-5444 to get more information. Also, The Office of Disaster Recovery at the State Department of Homeland Security has scheduled a virtual Applicants Briefing at 10:00 AM on Tuesday October 8th. To register for the Applicants Briefing, go to meetny.webex.com.

Binghamton Police are investigating the fatal shooting of 41 year old Tyrell Norris in his apartment on the city's North Side Monday Night. Norris was wounded by a bullet that was fired during a dispute in the parking lot outside the Town and Country Apartments at 100 Roberts Street. Norris was taken to Wilson Medical Center in Johnson City where he was pronounced dead. Police also found out that another man suffered a gunshot wound to a foot about a block away from the Norris shooting at 104 Liberty Street. Norris was "an uninvolved party" who was struck by gunfire while in his residence, anyone with information should call Binghamton police detective division at (607) 772-7080.

42 year old James English pleaded guilty to 2nd Murder today in Broome County Court. On June 6, 2023, English stabbed Jessica Picciano 31 times causing her death, English will be sentenced on January 7, 2025 where he is expected to receive 23-years-to- life-in State Prison.

The Chenango County Historical Society invites all community members to participate in the annual “Parade of Trees,” to be held in-person and virtually again this year. Historical Society Executive Director Jessica Moquin explains:

(Jessica Moquin 10-1-24)

Charitable organizations that would like to participate in this year’s “Parade of Trees” should visit chenangohistorical.org to register.

Chenango County Public Health announced that vaccines against RSV, COVID 19 & the flu are available at their office at 5 Court Street in Norwich. Clinics will be held on Fridays in the Month of October, more information is available at the Chenango County Public Health Facebook page.

Chenango County Sheriff's Office arrested 43 year old Lori Devine of Sherburne for Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance with Intent to Sell, Tampering with Physical Evidence, Criminal Nuisance, Criminal Use of Drug Paraphernalia and Criminal Possession of a Weapon. Devine was charged after an investigation into drug activity, she is accused of selling Methamphetamine and Fentanyl from her residence in the Town of Sherburne, During the execution of the search warrant, Devine attempted to dispose of physical evidence, she was taken into custody, Officers seized Methamphetamine, and Fentanyl. Devine was arraigned & was released on her own recognizance. Devine is to appear in the Town of Sherburne Court at a later date.

P.M. NEWS Tuesday 8-13-24

The Binghamton Police Department arrested 31 year old Matthew Carrasquillo of Binghamton, When he was eventually taken into custody after a brief pursuit, officers found a loaded and defaced handgun & a high-capacity handgun magazine. He was charged with numerous counts of criminal possession of a weapon as well as criminal possession of a firearm. These are felony charges. He is also facing misdemeanor charges of obstruction of governmental administration in the second degree and resisting arrest.

52 year old James Kenyon of Smithville Flats pleaded guilty in US District Court to transmitting a threat to injure in interstate commerce and unlawfully possessing 3 firearms while subject to a domestic violence order of protection. Kenyon admitted that on December 10, 2022, he made a profanity-laced Facebook post in which he threatened to decapitate another individual and told the individual to move out-of-state. Kenyon also admitted to possessing 2 rifles and a shotgun, while there was a restraining order that prohibited him from possessing any firearms. Kenyon could face a combined maximum term of 20 years in prison, a fine of up to $250,000, and a term of supervised release of up to 3 years.

The Community Foundation for South Central New York partnered with Horn Research to complete a regional community assessment focused on Mental Health, Housing, Poverty, Non-Profit Capacity and Equitable Access to Resources. Tina Barber, Community Foundation Executive Director, will present Delaware County specific findings on Wednesday, August 28th at 10 AM at the Walton Theatre and at 2 PM at the MTC Community Room in Margaretville. Delaware County Chamber of Commerce President Ray Pucci explains:

(Ray Pucci 8-13-24)

Barber’s presentation on August 28th is a free event, but registration is required by Monday, August 26th. You can register for Walton at tinyurl.com/NeedsWalton and Margaretville tinyurl.com/NeedsMargaretville. The Community Foundation serves donors and nonprofits in Broome, Chenango, Delaware, Otsego and Tioga Counties, more information is available at donorswhocare.org.

The State DOT is alerting motorists that State Route 79 will be closed from about 1,000 feet east of the Interstate 88 interchange to the intersection with Main Street in the Town of Colesville, until further notice. The closure is necessary to facilitate a culvert repair, which is expected to take several weeks. Motorists should follow posted detours. Drivers are asked to use caution when traveling through the work zone area and pay attention to all traffic control devices. Motorists are reminded that fines are doubled for speeding in work zones. For more information, call 511, visit 511NY.org or download the free 511NY mobile app.

A.M. NEWS Tuesday 8-13-24

The New York State Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services has developed a Damage Self Report tool for individuals to report damages from the August 9th storms without having to call the Delaware County Emergency Services Office. A QR code is available that will take smartphone users directly to the tool, if you are unable to use the QR Code or would like assistance, you can visit the Planning Department and Sheriff Office booths in the Commercial Tent at the Delaware County Fair, or you can call the planning office at (607) 832-5444.

The 137th Delaware County Fair continues today, with a host of free entertainment all week long, according to spokesman Jason Craig;

(Jason Craig 8-13-24)

More information is available at counterrevolutionary.

Another American Red Cross Blood Drive will be held in Oneonta today from 1:00 to 6:00 PM at the Oneonta Quality Inn, on State Route 23. Another is scheduled in Roxbury from 9 am. - 2 pm., at the Carriage House, Jay Gould Memorial Church, Main Street, State Highway 30, book a time to give blood by visiting RedCrossBlood.org, calling 1-800-RED CROSS or by using the Red Cross Blood Donor App.

P.M. NEWS THURSDAY 1-4-24

Broome County Sheriff’s Road Patrol initiated a routine traffic stop Tuesday of a pickup truck on Route 17 West near Exit 71 in Binghamton. The driver, 35 year old Kyle Kasmarcik of Port Crane, was found to have a suspended license. The investigation and towing of the vehicle uncovered a loaded and unregistered 9mm handgun, a digital scale and a small bag of white crystal-like substance, which field tested positive for methamphetamine. Also found in the truck was a separate license plate, which was used on the same vehicle a day prior Kasmarcik was taken into custody and charged with Criminal Possession of a Weapon, Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance, Criminally Using Drug Paraphernalia, Aggravated Operation of a Motor Vehicle, along with other similar charges, Kasmarcik was taken to Central Arraignment and remains in custody at the Broome County Sheriff’s Correctional Facility.

State Lawmakers will be heading back to Albany for the 2024 session, local Assemblyman Joe Angelino comments:

(Angelino 1-4-24)

Assemblyman Angelino can be reached in Albany at 518-455-5741, or in Broome County at 607-648-6080.

Effective immediately, Bassett Medical Center in Cooperstown has re-instituted temporary masking requirements per COVID-19 safety guidelines, all patients, visitors, employees, students, and volunteers are now required to wear medical-grade masks across Bassett Medical Center’s facilities in Cooperstown. Masks will be available at all entrances. Currently, the number of COVID-19 cases confirmed among employees at Bassett Medical Center reached the threshold for masking, the requirement will be reassessed in 14 days and lifted as soon as the number of active COVID-19 cases within the facility falls below the established threshold. The Cobleskill Health Center also currently has temporary masking measures.

The Otsego County Department of Health announced that a bat tested positive for rabies in the town of Oneonta today. 1 person was exposed & started post exposure vaccinations, more information about rabies is available at their web page at otsegocounty.com or by calling 607-547-4230.

A.M. NEWS THURSDAY 1-4-23

The State Department of Health released a report on food insecurity, Among Adults by County. Food insecurity is characterized by limited or uncertain access to adequate food due to limited economic resources. Among Counties outside of New York City, the highest percentage of adults who experience food insecurity are Herkimer 28.8% and Oswego 26.2%.The full report can be found at health.ny.gov/statistics.

The New York State Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services’ Office of Counter Terrorism conducted training exercises at more than 1,100 locations statewide in 2023. Counter terrorism experts from over 80 federal, state, local and tribal law enforcement agencies completed exercises assessing the ability of businesses to recognize and report suspicious activity in nearly every county in the state. More than 6,300 exercises have been conducted across New York since 2016.

The Broome County Sheriff’s Office is currently looking for Dominick Polhamus on an outstanding warrant for Aggravated Family Offense. Polhamous is described as a white male, 5'7" with brown hair and brown eyes, Anyone with information is asked to contact the Broome County Sheriff’s Office at gobroomecounty.com/sheriff/warrants or by calling the Broome County Sheriff’s Office tip line at (607) 778-1196 or Warrants Division at (607) 778-2923 or (607) 778-2933. Thank you.

P.M. NEWS WEDNESDAY 12-20-23

ACCO Brands announced to their employees last week that they will be closing their Sidney manufacturing and distribution plant late next year. Kori Reed the Director of Communication at ACCO Brands in Ohio told WCDO News that there is no firm timeline for the closure, the process will take most of next year to fully execute.

State Police will continue to participate in the “Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over” initiative through New Year's day. Drivers can expect to see sobriety checkpoints, Troopers will be watching for distracted drivers, vehicle occupants who are not properly buckled up, and drivers violating the “Move Over Law,” . State Police will also conduct underage drinker enforcement details statewide.

The Otsego County Sheriff’s Office announces the arrest 52 year old Donald Lane of Portlandville following an investigation in to a sex offender who failed to register a change of address with the New York State Sex Offender registry. Lane is accused of relocating from a residence in the Town of Oneonta to a new location in the Town of Milford without notifiying authorities, Lane was located in the City of Oneonta Tuesday & was taken in to custody, he was processed & was being held in the Otsego County Correctional Facility to await an appearance in Otsego County Centralized Arraignment.

Delaware County Sheriff's Deputies were on patrol in the Village of Walton Sunday and stopped a vehicle for multiple vehicle and traffic law violations. Deputies seized a quantity of narcotics and methamphetamine from the occupants and vehicle, Deputies arrested 40 year old Patrick Ladd of Walton for 5 counts of criminal possession of a controlled substance, & 43 year old Leslie McClenon of Walton was charged with several traffic violations & criminal possession of a controlled substance for possessing Methamphetamine with intent to sell, a 3rd occupant of the vehicle was released at the scene without charges at this time. McClenon was subsequently released on appearance tickets and directed to appear at the Village of Walton court at a later date. Ladd was held at the Delaware County Correctional Facility for centralized arraignment.

Fresh Express has issued a voluntary recall of a Fresh Express Spinach, 8 oz. size, with product code G332 and use-by date of December 15 and Publix Spinach, 9 oz size, with product code G332 and a now expired use-by date of December 14 due to a potential health risk from Listeria. Fresh Express is sold in a large number of grocery stores across the region, so far no illnesses have been reported and no other Fresh Express products are being recalled. Consumers who still have these products in their refrigerators are advised to discard them immediately.

The City of Norwich Police Department announced that their phone lines and internet are down at the Police station today Wednesday, and possibly tomorrow. They hope to have the services restored as soon as possible.

The storm which hit the region Sunday & Monday has claimed the lives of 4 New Yorkers so far. State Police said that an elderly woman in Catskill had her vehicle submerged in flood waters Monday, & she could not be reached by first responders due to the raging flood waters.

A.M. NEWS WEDNESDAY 12-20-23

Local sales tax collections in New York state increased by 5.1% in November compared to the same month in 2022, according to State Comptroller Tom DiNapoli. Overall, local collections totaled $1.81 billion, up $88.6 million compared to the same time last year. County and city collections outside of New York City totaled $887 million, an increase of 4.4%, 55 out of 57 counties experienced year-over-year increases.

Congressman Marc Molinaro's constituent service team will hold mobile office hours from 12:00 noon to 2:00pm today at the Oneonta Town Hall. This comes after a home exploded in Oneonta December 9th, killing 1 person, injuring others, and damaging neighboring homes. Constituents will be able to connect with representatives from Congressman Molinaro's office to get assistance with issues they are facing.

Governor Kathy Hochul announced $25 million in capital grants will be made available to help volunteer fire departments upgrade their facilities and equipment. The grants will be administered by the state’s Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services, fire companies have until April 30 2024 to respond to the request for applications at dhses.ny.gov.

P.M. NEWS WEDNESDAY 7-19-23

The National Transportation Safety Board released information regarding the crash of a single engine Cessna Airplane on May 28th in the town of Plymouth at about 2:50 PM, the pilot, Shawn McMahon of Binghamton, was fatally injured. The plane flew 2 separate sky diving flights that day, a co-owner of the airplane reported that following the 2nd flight, McMahon determined that he had 40 gallons of fuel. During the accident flight, McMahon announced that the skydivers were away & he was descending rapidly, a follow up announcement was unintelligible. 1 eyewitness told investigators that an airplane flew near her house very low, with the engine sputtering & the pilot attempted to start the engine unsuccessfully & she heard the impact, another eyewitness heard the engine shut off earlier when the skydivers jumped, the engine restarted and the plane continued. The investigation is continuing.

Governor Hochul announced today that New York will be sending engineers to Perform Dam Safety Inspections in Vermont, after their recent devastating flooding. So far, New York has deployed 9 engineers from the New York Power Authority and the Department of Environmental Conservation to Montpelier, Vermont to assist in performing dam safety evaluations throughout the state. The Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services is coordinating additional incoming requests for assistance from Vermont and State agency partners stand ready to provide resources as necessary.

The Delaware County District Attorney's Office announced that 29 year old Autumn Transue of Denver Colorado was indicted for Driving While Intoxicated. On March 8th, Transue is alleged to have operated a motor vehicle while intoxicated, she was stopped by the Colchester police. The indictment accused Transue of felony DWI, & driving with a blood alcohol content over .08%. A warrant for Transue's arrest has been issued, if she fails to appear, the DA’s office will work on extradiction.

The Broome County Sheriff’s Office is currently looking for Calvin Bulluck on an outstanding warrant for Burglary & a Parole Violation. Bulluck is described as a Black Male, 5'11" about 200 Pounds with brown eyes & black hair, Anyone with information on the location of Bulluck is asked to contact the Broome County Sheriff’s Office at gobroomecounty.com or by calling their tip line at (607) 778-1196.

A.M. NEWS WEDNESDAY 7-19-23

Sentencing was delayed in Chenango County Court for William Sabines of Oxford, Sabines pleaded guilty to criminally negligent homicide, concealment of a human corpse and attempted criminal possession of stolen property, in connection with the burning & dismemberment death of Jesse Donlin of Unadilla & Sidney in 2019, & hiding Donlin's vehicle in Chenango County. Sabines was originally scheduled to be sentenced last Friday.

State Police issued 39 tickets in Broome County during an “Operation Hard Hat” detail. Troopers from the Troop C Traffic Incident Management Unit monitored traffic on State Route 17 in the town of Sanford where road crews were completing bridge work. The 39 tickets issued included 13 for speeding, 8 for cell phone use while driving, 12 were for not wearing seatbelts, and 6 were for other assorted violations.

P.M. NEWS MONDAY 5-15-23

Governor Hochul today announced the launch of Round 13 of the Regional Economic Development Council Initiative, which will include core capital grant and tax-credit funding combined with a wide range of programs from 10 State agencies, including $150 million in grant funds from Empire State Development. The Councils are encouraged to support projects that advance or address strategic State priorities, More information is available at apps.cio.ny.gov.

The Delaware County Chamber of Commerce will host a special presentation tomorrow regarding potential public transportation options for Delaware County Chamber President Ray Pucci comments:

(Ray Pucci 5-16-23)

The meeting will begin at 11:00 am in the Meeting Room of the Delaware County Business Center at 5 ½ Main Street in Delhi, a ZOOM link will be posted at delawarecounty.org.

Delaware County Sheriff’s Deputies responded May 10th to the Town of Meredith to assist US Homeland Security Units with the apprehension of 48 year old Charles Bodie of Meredith, who was wanted on an active US Federal Court Warrant for the Sexual Exploitation of a Child. Deputies and Homeland Security conducted surveillance of property in Meredith where Bodie had been living, on May 11th, they arrested Bodie on the warrant, he was transported to the Delaware County Correctional Facility, where he was to be held indefinitely. Bodie was scheduled to be transported to the United States District Court for the Northern District of New York at a later date for arraignment on the Sexual Exploitation of a Child charge, if found guilty, Bodie could face 15 to 30 years in prison.

The Broome County Sheriff's Office announced that a stolen vehicle traffic stop in the Town of Kirkwood led to an arrest on multiple felony drug charges last week. On May 7th, a deputy identified a vehicle as stolen from Binghamton, after stopping the vehicle and confirming its status, Officers seized 11.3 grams of cocaine, a digital scale and $1,423 in cash, 38 year old Jorge Cortina of Binghamton was charged with Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance with Intent to Sell & Criminally Using Drug Paraphernalia, he was processed and issued an appearance ticket to answer for his charges on June 7, 2023 in the Town of Kirkwood Court.

The Arc Otsego has been awarded $30,002 in grants from the Trustee Management Board of New York State ARC Trust Services to support The Arc Otsego’s guardianship and recreation programs. More information about The Arc Otsego Guardianship and Fit and Fun Grants, is available at 607-433-8400.

The Chenango County Historical Society opens a new exhibit today from 4:30-6:00 PM. “Hometown Health” explores the healthcare and the pharmaceutical industry in Chenango County throughout the first half of the 20th century. Refreshments will be provided compliments of UHS Chenango Memorial Hospital, and each guest will receive a vintage booklet commemorating NBT Bank’s 150th anniversary, along with a promotional coupon from Sherwin-Williams.

The federal public health emergency declaration for COVID-19 expired on May 11th, but COVID-19 remains a threat. The Chenango County Health department suggests that county residents stay up to date with COVID-19 vaccines, get tested, and stay away from others when they appear sick or are experiencing any COVID-19 symptoms. The Chenango County Department of Public Health will continue to offer FREE COVID-19 vaccine, more information is available at 607-337-1660.

A.M. NEWS MONDAY 5-15-23

Delaware County Public Health announced that a Skunk tested positive for rabies in the Village of Deposit. An unvaccinated dog and 1 person were exposed to the rabid skunk, the dog had to be euthanized because it had not been vaccinated. The individual exposed to the skunk is receiving post exposure prophylaxis. To report a suspected rabid animal call Delaware County Public Health Services at 607-832-5200, for more information visit delawarecountypublichealth.com

A Broome County judge on Friday has sentenced Jason Johnson of Nineveh to 60 years in jail for the attempted murder of Trooper Rebecca Seager in June 2021, Johnson was found guilty on a number of felony counts last year in Broome County Court for shooting Trooper Seager in the hip in the Town of Colesville, Johnson was taken into custody following a 21-hour manhunt.

The Chenango County Department of Public Works announced the closure of Church Hill Road in the town of North Norwich today. The road will be closed between Bryant Road and Ellison Road for the replacement of a bridge deck. Local traffic will be allowed, more information is available at 337-1710.

The 18th Annual Women’s Fund Breakfast, will be held on May 30th at the Double tree Inn by Hilton in Binghamton, the Keynote Speaker will be Pulitzer prize & Emmy Award Winning journalist Maria Hinojosa. the event is sponsored by the Women’s Fund, which is a component fund of the Community Foundation for South Central New York, more information is available at donorswhocare.org

P.M. NEWS THURSDAY 1-26-23

The Broome County District Attorney Mike Korchak announced that 34 year old Kyle Babola of Johnson City pleaded guilty for the killing of 55 year old Scott Grover in Johnson City on New Year’s Eve in 2021. Babola killed Grover by striking him numerous times with a machete during a dispute at 330 Floral Avenue. He will be sentenced to 20 years to life in state prison in April 2023.

The City of Norwich is receiving federal money for the upcoming water Main replacement project downtown, City Community Development Director Eric Scrivener told WCDO News that they will be working with other agencies to do the water main project followed by paving in the effected downtown areas:

(Eric Scrivener 1-26-23)

The Water Main will be replaced along South Broad Street, between Prentice and Mechanic streets, and a section of East Main Street between the Broad Street intersection and the railroad tracks

Sidney Central School District 7th Grader Bella Phelps will be competing in the 1st New York State High School Wrestling Championships tomorrow in Syracuse, her coach Tony Ferrara comments:

(Tony Ferrara 1-26-23)

Sidney residents are asked to line West Main & Main Streets tomorrow morning between 8:45 & 9:00 AM for a send off to Phelps to Syracuse for the State Championship competition.

Delaware County Sheriff's Office announced the arrest of 34-year-old Jessica Arnott of Queens. On January 17th, Deputies were notified that Arnott was at the Delaware County Family Court surrendering herself on an active Delaware County Family Court Arrest Warrant. Deputies arrested and arraigned Arnott on the warrant, she was committed to the Custody of the Delaware County Correctional Facility pending further appearance in court, at a later date.

The State Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services' Office of Counter Terrorism conducted training exercises at more than 1,000 locations statewide in 2022, As part of this process, teams assessed suspicious activity reporting and recognition at 842 retailers and businesses that sell chemicals, compounds, components, services, or rent space or resources that could be exploited by those with nefarious intent. Additionally, teams assessed more than 180 infrastructure locations across the state, including stadiums and arenas, malls and shopping centers, colleges and universities, airports, transit hubs and other mass-gathering locations.

State Department of Health announced that the XBB.1.5. variant is now the most dominant strain in New York, accounting for more than 50 percent of COVID-19 infections statewide, which may indicate that XBB.1.5. is more transmissible than other circulating variants, though there is not yet clear evidence of the severity of strain. The percentage of those testing positive for COVID 19 is down to 6%, with Patient Hospitalization down to 3,029, ICU patients numbers are down to 313 with 124 on ventilators, with 33 deaths reported over the course of the latest 3 day testing period.

A.M. NEWS THURSDAY 1-26-23

The Broome County Sheriff’s Office is currently looking for Kara Yager on an outstanding warrant and asking the residents of Broome County for assistance. Yager was last known to frequent the Kirby Street area of the Town of Bainbridge, she is described as a white female, 5'4, 115 pounds, with blue eyes, and brown hair, she is wanted for violation of probation for criminal possession of a controlled substance. Anyone with information on the location of Yager is asked to contact the Broome County Sheriff’s Office at gobroomecounty.com/sheriff/warrants or by calling the Broome County Sheriff’s Office tip line at (607) 778-1196.

Otsego County Sheriff's Deputies responded to the report of a tractor-trailer and a pickup truck colliding on I-88 in near Exit 15 Wednesday morning. Both vehicles sustained heavy damage, the driver of the pickup truck was taken to the hospital with minor injuries. State DOT crews, state police and the Oneonta Fire Department also responded to the scene, part of the highway was closed temporarily for the clean up & investigation, the cause of the crash is still under investigation.

Broome County Sheriff’s Office Warrants Division arrested 36 year old Matthew Hackel of Vestal, for failing to register an address with the State Sex Offender Registry. Hackel was processed and is currently in the custody of the Broome County Sheriff’s Correction Facility.

P.M. NEWS WEDNESDAY 10-12-22

30 year old Shelby Ortiz of the town of Maryland, pleaded guilty to distributing child pornography in federal court. Ortiz admitted to having sexual contact with a 7-month-old boy and sending it to someone else electronically. Ortiz is scheduled to be sentenced in February & could face 10 to 20 years in prison if convicted. .

The Broome County Sheriff’s Office is investigating a fentanyl overdose that occurred at the jail last Friday. The unidentified 34-year-old inmate was found by a correctional officer, 1st aid was administered, the inmate was taken to Wilson Regional Medical Center for further medical attention. The investigation into the incident is continuing.

The Otsego County Sheriff's Office arrested 26 year old Kynisha Atkinson of Oneonta following a recent traffic stop in the Town of Oneonta. Atkinson was found to be operating a motor vehicle on a public highway with a suspended registration on September 25th, she will appear in Town of Oneonta court at a later date.

The Binghamton Black Bears Hockey Team of the Federal Prospects Hockey League, will begin their new season this Friday Night at the Visions Veterans Memorial Arena in Binghamton, new team announcer Brooks Hill told WCDO News that the team looks poised to return to the playoffs this year:

(Brooks Hill 10-12-22)

Hill said that tickets are available on their website: binghamtonblackbears.com/tickets, or by calling 607-722-7367.

Governor Kathy Hochul today announced more than $246 million from FEMA to support counter-terrorism and emergency preparedness efforts across New York. The New York State Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services manages the programs with local stakeholders, locally Chenango & Otsego Counties will receive over $93,000, Delaware County over $85,000 and Broome County over $311,000.

A.M. NEWS Wednesday 10-12-22

Delaware County Sheriff’s Office arrested 29-year-old Osman Mendoza-Garcia of Scranton, Pennsylvania, on October 1st, after Deputies responded to a 2-car accident on State Highway 10. The investigation found that Mendoza-Garcia was following another north bound vehicle that was attempting to make a turn, he was unable to stop. Mendoza-Garcia was driving with a suspended driver’s license, he was charged with Aggravated Unlicensed Operation and Following too Closely, he was released with appearance tickets made returnable to the Town of Tompkins Court at a later date.

State Police arrested 31year old Jesse Sklenarik of Oneonta, for Attempted Petty Larceny, after a trooper was dispatched to a report of a larceny in progress at Certified Auto. When the trooper arrived, an employee was holding down Sklenarik after he allegedly attempted to cut the catalytic converter off a vehicle on their property. Sklenarik was released on an appearance ticket to the Oneonta Town Court on October 18th.

The Northeast Classic Car Museum will have their annual drawing today, for someone to win a 1965 Ford Mustang Convertible, valued at about $30,000. Tickets have been sold for several months, the event is one of the key fundraisers for the museum, last year's winner was Rick Hulse of Cooperstown.

The New Bivalent COVID-19 BOOSTER Vaccines are available to anyone 12 and older, to provide increased protection against currently circulating variants. A booster clinic is being hosted by the Chenango County Health Department today at the Broad Street Methodist Church in Norwich, from 12:00 to 3:00 pm, at the Unadilla Valley School on October 27th, and Afton School on November 3rd. Pre-registration is required on the County website, more information is available at 607-337-1660.

P.M. NEWS MONDAY 9-26-22

Governor Hochul announced the start of the 2nd phase of a plan to allow 3rd parties to offer the Commercial Driver License road test, to both public and private entities. The program is being implemented to address the shortage of bus and truck drivers. Any qualified third party is now eligible to apply for certification through the DMV, New Yorkers can find more information at dmv.ny.gov/commercial-drivers.

Famed "Star Trek" star & Author George Takei is scheduled to be a speaker at SUNY Oneonta on October 24 at 7:00 PM at the Alumni Field House. Takei is the author of “They Called Us Enemy”, which is a New York Times Best Seller, in which he describes his experiences of growing up in internment camps in the United States as a Japanese American during World War II.

State Police and the Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services announced that a contingent of 50 State Troopers left Saturday morning for Puerto Rico to help the island nation as it recovers from the devastation left behind in the wake of Hurricane Fiona. The first wave of 50 Troopers, along with 69 New Jersey State Troopers, flew out of JFK airport at about 10 am. this morning bound for Luis Munoz Marin International Airport in San Juan, Puerto Rico. The flight was donated by Jet Blue Airlines.

The State DOT will hold a public hearing this Wednesday at 5:30 pm. to discuss plans to enhance safety at 4 sites on State Route 8 in the towns of Columbus, New Berlin and Norwich. The proposed project will widen traffic lanes and shoulders, improve sight distances & reduce curves, the hearing will take place at the Unadilla Valley Central School Auditorium. More information is available at dot.ny.gov/Rt8Safety

Otsego County Sheriff's Office arrested Amy Schermerhorn of New Berlin following a traffic Stop in the town of Pittsfield. Schermerhorn was charged with Driving While Intoxicated and Operating a Motor Vehicle with .08% Blood Alcohol Content, She will appear in court at a later date.

Johnson City Police arrested 3 people in connection with the shooting of a man in the abdomen last week. Destiany Kleine-Hill, Justice Marimberga and David Van Patten were all charged with Attempted Murder, 1st degree Robbery & 2nd degree Burglary.

A.M. NEWS MONDAY 9-26-22

Delaware County Public Health Services will be conducting a Monkeypox vaccine clinic on Wednesday, October 5, from 4:30PM to 6:00 PM, at 99 Main Street in Delhi. The two vaccine doses are given 28 days apart. This is a 1st dose clinic only. More information is available at 607-832-5200 To register for the clinic, go to delawarecountypublichealth.com.

DCMO BOCES in Norwich is currently auctioning off 3 used school buses. The online auctions are open to the public at municibid.com and ends Thursday, September 29th.

Assemblyman Joe Angelino announced the launch of a $200 million Seed Fund Grant Program, which is targeted at helping small businesses recover after the COVID-19 pandemic. More Information and access to the application portal can be found at nyseedgrant.com. The program is in addition to the $800 million Pandemic Small Business Recovery Grant Program, which helped more than 35,000 small businesses with roughly $639 million since it began last year. Businesses may call 877-721-0097 for assistance from Empire State Development.

Norwich Police Department arrested Luis Franco of Brooklyn after they responded to a repport of an assault on September 22nd. The victim sustained broken bones, a fractured spine and a collapsed lung and was taken to a Binghamton Hospital, Franco was charged with Assault in the 2nd degree, he was arraigned and held on $25,000 cash bail.

P.M. NEWS TUESDAY 9-6-22

The Village of Sidney will be seeking community input with their Resilient Sidney program, next week, Sidney Village Mayor Andy Matviak commented:

(Andy Matviak 9-6-22)

The Community meeting will be held on Wednesday September 14th from 6:30 to 8:00 PM at the Community Cultural Center at 1 Bridge Street, more information about the program is available at resilient-sidney.com/nyforward.

The Delaware Valley Humane Society Started their annual "Heavy Metal Haul Out" teaming up with Waste Recovery Enterprises, owner Sean LaRose told WCDO News what they are taking:

(Sean LaRose 9-6-22)

Delaware Valley Humane Society Director Erin Insinga told WCDO News that this fundraiser proved to be very successful last year:

(Erin Insinga 9-6-22)

Insinga said that the Items will be accepted at the collection bin at the Humane Society through the end of the month of September.

State Police responded Friday to State Route 17 west to a crash involving several vehicles. In the 1st crash, vehicles were stopped on State Route 17 due to a construction barrel in the road, a vehicle was unable to stop and struck the rear of a vehicle, causing 2 vehicles to spin, 1 of them hit the guide rail, the other vehicle, struck a different vehicle and pushed it into 1 of the original vehicles. 2 drivers were taken to Wilson Hospital with non-life-threatening injuries, 2 other drivers were injured, & were treated at the scene.

The Chenango County Weekly Wastewater Surveillance Data Report showed an increase in COVID 19 levels over the past 2 weeks, which changes the county's detection level to "HIGH". County Health Officials recommend that people should wear a mask indoors in public and on public transportation, Get Tested if you have symptoms, more information is available by contacting the Chenango County Health Department at (607) 337-1660.

State Police were dispatched Saturday to assist Cherry Valley Fire with a hiker who had fallen from a waterfall down about 150-feet into a gorge. 1st responders hiked about a mile through a wooded area to locate the 32-year-old woman from Troy, she was pulled to safety and was airlifted to Albany Medical Center, where she was treated & released.

The Otsego County Sheriff's Office arrested 32 year old Emily Wood of Morris for Aggravated Harassment, following a complaint in the Town of Morris. Wood is accused of sending threatening and unwanted text messages to the victim. The defendant is set to appear in the Town of Morris Court at a later date.

Broome County Sheriff’s Deputy responded to a 2-car accident on I-86 in the Town of Windsor. During the investigation, 39 year old Michael Morgan of Queens, failed a field sobriety test & was charged with operating a motor vehicle while impaired by drugs. Morgan was processed and released on tickets returnable to the Town of Windsor Court.

A.M. NEWS TUESDAY 9-6-22

Firefighters from Bainbridge, Guilford, Mount Upton, Masonville, Coventry, Franklin, Trout Creek, Afton and Sidney all responded to a structure fire at the Auto Plus Store at 4 Front Street Monday Night at about 9:00 PM. Investigators are trying to determine how the fire started, the store was closed when the fire broke out, no injuries among fire fighters were reported.

The fire at the Minnewaska State Park Preserve was contained on Sunday, according to the Governor's office. The State DEC Forest Rangers are leading the incident response in cooperation with the Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation, Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services, State Police and many other State and local partners. Response actions in the area will continue in the coming days with a smaller force of state and local experts as fire control efforts advance. More than 200 firefighters, bulldozer operators, pilots, and other professional staff and volunteers have been working to contain the fire.

The Town of Guilford announced that a repair to the water tank will begin today for customers of the Mt. Upton Water District. The repairs are expected to take 1 week to complete, back up tanks are in place & no disruption of service is anticipated, but water conservation measures are encouraged., more information is available at 607-895-9966.

The Out Of The Woodwork Players announced that auditions will be taking place soon for "A Suessified Christmas Carol". Auditions for will be held Saturday September 10th from 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM, and Friday September 16th from 6:30 to 8:00 PM, in the Bainbridge Town Hall Theater, many roles are available for children, teens and adults. The performances will be held in December.

P.M. NEWS WEDNESDAY 8-31-22

State Supreme Court Justice Peter Lynch today suggested a prison sentence of 16 months to 4 years was appropriate for Nauman Hussain, the owner of Prestige Limousine, who operated the limo in the 2018 Schoharie crash that killed 20 people. In September 2021, Hussain pleaded guilty to 20 counts of criminally negligent homicide as part of a plea deal, he was sentenced to 2 years of probation and 1,000 hours of community service. Hussain's attorney decided to vacate that plea follow the judges suggestion, they will meet September 14th to discuss a date for a trial.

The Centers for Disease Control confirm that Sullivan County is the latest New York county to test positive for Polio, Sullivan County has a 62.33% polio vaccination rate, their residents are urged to get vaccinated. New York State reported the first polio case in the United States since 2014, when an unvaccinated Rockland County man was hospitalized after traveling in Europe in July. The CDC began testing Rockland County residents and water samples, polio has also been found in Orange County and New York City wastewater, and testing is continuing.

The Town of Guilford announced that a repair to the water tank will begin on September 6th, for customer of the Mt. Upton Water District. The repairs are expected to take 1 week to complete, back up tanks are in place & no disruption of service is anticipated, but water conservation measures are encouraged., more information is available at 607-895-9966.

The Out Of The Woodwork Players announced that auditions will be taking place soon for "A Suessified Christmas Carol". Auditions for will be held Saturday September 10th from 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM, and Friday September 16th from 6:30 to 8:00 PM, in the Bainbridge Town Hall Theater, many roles are available for children, teens and adults. The performances will be held in December.

New York Motorists are reminded, as school gets ready to return in the coming weeks, that it is illegal to pass a New York School Bus that has its flashing lights on & is receiving or dismissing students. The 1st conviction can result in a $250 to $400 fine, 5 points on a license, and up to 30 days in jail, a 2nd conviction within 3 years could result in a $600 to $750 fine, 5 points on a license, and up to 90 days in jail.

A.M. NEWS WEDNESDAY 8-31-22

The Broome County District Attorney's Office announced that 44 year old Michael Carley of Johnson City and South Carolina pleaded guilty to Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance. Carley was stopped for a traffic violation, he was wanted on an unrelated warrant and was taken into custody, he was also found to be in possession of methamphetamines. Carley will be sentenced to 2 years in New York State and 2 years of post-release supervision on November 28th.

The State Health Department reported that the COVID 19 positivity continues to trend downward, down to 4.78%, the 7 Day Average Positivity rate to 6.35%, Patient Hospitalizations were down to 2,329, with 248 ICU patients, with 94 on ventilators.

Governor Kathy Hochul announced the deployment of the New York Army and Air National Guards To support fire suppression efforts at the 150-acre wildfire currently burning in Minnewaska State Park Preserve in Ulster County. 2 Army National Guard Black Hawk helicopters, capable of dropping 600 gallons of water at a time, began aerial operations, the Air National Guard have been deployed, the State DEC Forest Rangers are serving as Incident Commanders, with more than 200 wild-land firefighters and volunteers, local firefighters, the Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services, State Police Aviation, and State Fire also fighting the fire.

P.M. NEWS THURSDAY 5-19-22

18 year old Payton Gendron of Conklin was indicted by a Grand Jury for 1st Degree Murder today, for the murder of 10 people at a Tops Supermarket in Buffalo. Gendron is accused of purposely picking out the Tops Market due to the neighborhoods largely Black Population, 10 people were killed and 3 others were injured in the Saturday shooting 11of the 13 victims were Black. The Investigation is now being headed up by the FBI, more charges may be forthcoming.

Governor Kathy Hochul unveiled a package aimed at fighting domestic terrorism and closing loopholes in state gun laws and cracking down on social media platforms that host violent content. The announcement comes after the mass shooting in Hochul's hometown of Buffalo. The first Executive Order is designed to fight domestic terrorism and violent extremism on social media, the State Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services will establish a new unit that focuses on domestic terrorism, the 2nd Executive Order will call on the State Police to create a dedicated unit to identify possible threats through social media analysis.

Delaware County Sheriff's Deputies responded May 8th, to Delhi for a reported domestic dispute in progress. 33-year-old Amanda Prevost and 30-year old Anthony Prevost were involved in a physical altercation, in the presence of a child less than 17 years of age. Deputies arrested Amanda and Anthony Prevost and charged them with Endangering the Welfare of a Child, both parties were released on appearance tickets for Town of Delhi Court at a later date.

The State Department of Labor announced that the number of private sector jobs in the State increased over the month by 23,600, to 7,937,300 in April. New York State's unemployment rate decreased from 4.6% to 4.5% in April, in April of 2021, the unemployment rate was 7.7%.

The Delaware Valley Humane Society Pop Out program continues tomorrow in Sidney, Society Director Erin Insinga said that the program has gone well so far:

(Erin Insinga 5-19-22)

Insinga said that tomorrow's Pop Out event will be at Curtis Lumber in Sidney from 11:00 AM to 3:00 PM, with Smoke Out Barbecue donating 10% of food sales to the Delaware Valley Humane Society.

A.M. NEWS Thursday 5-19-22

U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand announced the introduction of the Emergency Infant Formula Act, to try to increase domestic production and expand sourcing of formula in order to alleviate the current crisis and prevent future shortages.

(Gillibrand 5-18-22)

Senator Gillibrand said that following a recall at Abbott Nutrition, roughly 40% of formula nationwide is out of stock, compounded by supply chain disruptions as a result of the pandemic, The FDA gave Abbott the go-ahead to begin producing formula again at the Sturgis Michigan facility, but it will likely take many weeks to get shelves filled again at retail stores throughout the state.

The New York State Department of Health alerted New Yorkers that seasonal flu rates are rising statewide and recommended that the public take the same precautions as they follow with COVID-19 – stay home if you have any symptoms, consult your physician, get tested and get treatment, and wear a mask in indoor public spaces. The week ending May 7 saw statewide positive flu rates increase by 25 percent from the previous week, the 25th consecutive week widespread influenza has been reported.

The New York State Division of Human Rights has filed a complaint against Amazon, alleging the company engages in discrimination against pregnant workers and workers with disabilities by denying them reasonable accommodations. The Division also alleges that Amazon has policies that force pregnant workers and workers with disabilities to take an unpaid leave of absence rather than allowing them to work with a reasonable accommodation, more information is available at dhr.ny.gov.

Catholic Charities announced an "ALL YOU CAN EAT PASTA DINNER" at the Quality Inn on Route 23 in Oneonta today from 5:00 to 7:30 PM. Tickets are $10.00 for adults, $5.00 for children ages 5 to 12, under 5 are free, tickets can be purchased by calling the Sidney office at 607-604-4071. Volunteers are needed for tonight, more information about volunteering is available at 607-604-4071 or by emailing callen4@stny.rr.com.

P.M. NEWS TUESDAY 2-15-22

Oneonta Mayor Mark Drnek announced that the Common Council meeting tonight will be back in the Chambers at Oneonta City Hall. Mayor Drnek will be delivering his first State of the City Address, masks will be required at tonight's meeting, which will also be broadcast at 7:00 PM on YouTube.com/cityofoneonta

Delaware County Public Health will be conducting a COVID-19 vaccination clinic for people 12 and older on Thursday at 97 Main Street in Delhi. Pfizer 1st or 2nd doses will be available from 2:00 to 3:00 PM for walk-ins only. Pfizer boosters will be available from 2:00 to 3:00 PM for those who pre-register at apps2.health.ny.gov. For more information, call Delaware County Public Health at 607-832-5200.

State Comptroller Tom DiNapoli announced the results of an audit of the Otsego County Industrial Development Agency regarding the Oneonta Rail Yards Acquisition. The audit stated that the agency did not adequately plan for the 2017 acquisition of the rail yards, which was acquired based on a $6 million to $20 million development plan, but without an interested developer. Auditors found no indication that the board of directors had significant discussions of the pros and cons of developing the property, they then learned that a large-scale timber operation would be the only type of local industry that could profitable at the Rail Yards property.

The Friends of Recovery of Delaware and Otsego Counties will be expanding into Chenango County with a new site being prepared in the City of Norwich. The new location will be located at at 24 East Main Street in Norwich, they hope to open up the facility sometime this spring, more information about the program is available at friendsofrecoverydo.org.

The Chenango Arts Council’s annual Chenango Student Art Show will take place from March 4th to March 31st, the exhibit will open with a reception and awards ceremony on Friday March 4 beginning at 5:30 pm. In addition to a number of awards for different categories, 2 scholarships will be awarded for Chenango County seniors intending to pursue a degree in the Arts. The exhibit will be displayed in the Mariea Brown and Raymond Loft Galleries, located at the Chenango Arts Council, 27 West Main Street, Norwich and on the Arts Council’s social media. More information is available at 607-336-2787.

A.M. NEWS TUESDAY 2-15-22

The Otsego County Office of Emergency Services were requested to respond to a reported structure fire at 22 Maple Street in the Village of Gilbertsville Monday morning at about 9:15 AM. Firefighters from Gilbertsville, Morris, Mount Upton, Otego, Sidney, Wells Bridge and Otsego County EMS, all responded to the scene, 64 year old Louise Dubben was located deceased inside her residence. The Otsego County Office of Emergency Services, New York State Office of Fire Prevention and Control and the New York State Police are leading investigation efforts. An investigation into the fire is ongoing.

The City of Oneonta Police Department has arrested 29 year old Elijah Vergari of Oneonta in connection with the NBT bank robbery that occurred at 1 Wall Street in the City of Oneonta on December 29th. An indictment was handed down by a Grand Jury for the arrest of Vergari, Vergari was delivered to the Otsego County Court Monday, he was arraigned for 3rd degree Robbery, Due to the existence of pending felony charges in Delaware County, bail was set for $10,000 cash bail and he was remanded to the custody of the Otsego County Sheriff. The Oneonta Police Department worked in conjunction with the New York State Police Forensic ID unit, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security Investigations, and NBT bank security services.

An Oneonta man died in a two-car crash on Route 365 in Westmoreland late Sunday night. The Oneida County Sheriff's Office stated that 20-year-old Joshua Parker of Utica, was driving westbound on Route 365 when he started to have car trouble and put his flashers on while trying to make it to a gas station, Parker's vehicle was hit from behind by 40-year-old Lance Johnson of Oneonta, who was transporting medical test samples to a lab. Johnson was pronounced dead at the scene. Parker was taken to St. Elizabeth Medical Center to be treated for injuries that are not considered to be life-threatening. The investigation is ongoing.

Assemblyman Joseph Angelino is announcing his re-election campaign. Angelino is serving in his first term, He is the ranking Republican on the Assembly Committee on Oversight, Analysis and Investigation. Angelino will be running in the new 121st Assembly District which includes the majority of Chenango and Broome counties, and portions of Madison, Otsego, Sullivan and Delaware counties.

P.M. NEWS TUESDAY 10-5-21

Delaware County Public Health reported they 55th COVID-19 death on Monday.  Delaware County Public Health's reported 52 new COVID positive cases Saturday through Monday, they have 152 active cases, 6 hospitalized and 248 quarantined. The county has recorded 3,338 cases with 3131 recoveries since the pandemic began.

NY State of Health announced the affordable health insurance options available to New Yorkers in 2022. Open enrollment for coverage in a 2022 Qualified Health Plan starts November 16th for new and returning consumers and ends on January 31, 2022.   For additional information, visit the NY State of Health website at: nystateofhealth.ny.gov or call us at: 1-855-355-5777.

Commerce Chenango will hold their annual Legislative Breakfast on Thursday October 14th, at the Silo Restaurant in Greene, starting at 8:00 AM.  Representatives from the Economic Development Council and The Business Council of New York State will attend, local lawmakers State Senators Fred Akshar & Peter Oberacker and Assemblyman Joe Angelino have been invited to attend, and RSVP’s are required by this Thursday on the Commerce Chenango website, by calling the office at 334-1400 or email to register@chenangony.org.

The State DEC announced that the State’s new catch-and-release trout stream season begins on October 16th, as part of the DEC’s Statewide Trout Stream Management Plan.  The new season runs until March 31st of next year & requires anglers to use only artificial lures and immediately release trout they catch. More information about freshwater fishing in New York is available at dec.ny.gov.

Chobani and the Utica based non-profit Compassion Coalition donated & delivered $29,000 worth of food and supplies to help 4 local backpack programs in Central New York last week.  Chobani distributed more than 1,200 cases of their products to the Edmeston Central School, Unadilla Valley School District, Sherburne-Earlville Central School, and Norwich City Schools, to restock school food pantries, which helps to feed more than 200 children and their families throughout the year.  Chobani also announced that they are sending 200,000 Chobani products to those affected by Hurricane Ida; this follows a recent delivery of 100,000 products to Afghan evacuees in temporary housing across the country, and the US servicemen and women supporting them.

State Police arrested 24 year old David Kemp of Eaton for using a fake COVID 19 Vaccination card, after his employer turned him in.  Kemp could face 7 years in prison after being charged with possession of a forged instrument & the unauthorized use of a government agency’s seal on the fake card makes it a federal crime.

A.M. NEWS TUESDAY 10-5-21

State Police have identified the deceased individual shot by a Walton Police Officer as 66 year old Paul Weeden of Walton.  On Monday Morning, an officer from the Walton Police Department was dispatched to a mental health call on Griswold Street, the officer made contact with Weeden, who pointed what was believed to be a gun at the officer, the officer retreated, Weeden followed & ignored multiple commands to drop his weapon, he again pointed the suspected gun at the officer, who fired his weapon and struck Weeden.  The officer called for EMS and rendered emergency aid, Weeden was pronounced dead at the scene.  The investigation is continuing.

Dylan Robinson was sentenced to 20 years to life in prison in Otsego County Court on Monday, for the murder of his father, Kenneth Robinson in Worcester in October 2019.  Robinson & several others were accused of going to Kenneth Robinson's home to steal money & marijuana, it escalated to the killing of the elder Robinson & attempting to burn the house down to cover up the crimes.  Robinson was convicted after a 3 day trial in June.

Governor Kathy Hochul today announced State agencies, cities, towns, and Indian Tribal governments can now apply for federal funding  to assist with mitigation projects designed to strengthen resiliency against future national disasters. The application period is open through November 30th using FEMA GO online. The State Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services will review the applications and assist applicants with questions on the process.

Otsego County Department of Health reported 24 new positive COVID tests Monday; they have 102 active cases, 6 hospitalized, and a 7 day rolling average positivity rate of 2.9%.  They have had over 5500 total cases & 69 deaths during this pandemic.

New York State officials and members of the Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services' Office of Fire Prevention and Control will preside over the 24th Annual New York State Fallen Firefighters Memorial Ceremony at the Empire State Plaza Convention Center in Albany today at 11:00 AM.  The event will also be livestreamed at ny.gov.

The State Department of Health is continuing to monitor the
status of the Corona Virus in New York State.
Governor Cuomo commented this afternoon in Albany:

(Cuomo 2-26-20)

There are no positive cases yet in New York State for the
virus.  There have been 26 negative test results,
with one case pending, according to the Centers for Disease Control &
Prevention, and additional 40 million dollars will be made available to the
State Health Department in the event that a positive test result occurs in New
York State.

Delaware County Sheriff’s Deputies responded to a 911 call
for a burglary in progress on Seeley Wood Road in the Town of Walton.  Deputies were informed that 40 year old Ryan
Kite of Walton fled from the scene; Kite is accused of forcefully entering the
residence & allegedly stole prescription medication and choked a female
victim.  Deputies located Kite in Walton
Tuesday evening, he was charged with 2nd degree Burglary, Criminal
Mischief & Criminal Obstruction of Breathing or Blood Circulation, he was
arraigned & was released on his own recognizance pending his appearance in
the Town of Walton Court on a later date.

The Emmanuel Episcopal Church of Norwich has committed
$25,000 toward a new emergency room and walk-in center at UHS Chenango Memorial
Hospital.  Parish leaders presented a
ceremonial check Tuesday to campaign leaders; it is the latest pledge in the Chenango
Memorial Hospital’s largest fundraising effort in 3 decades.  More information about the fundraiser &
the project is available at 337-4183 or via email at
melissa.stagnaro@nyuhs.org.

Jury selection began Tuesday in
Otsego County court for the trial of Kimberly Steeley of East Worcester.  Steely is charged with Manslaughter for the
asphyxiation deaths of her 2 infants 2 weeks apart in June 2018.

Oneonta Police arrested 26 year old Thomas Miller of Oneonta
for 8 counts of Making Graffiti, & 5 counts of Criminal Mischief & 1
count of Criminal Mischief in the 3rd degree as a hate crime.  Miller is accused of painting an offensive
symbol on an Oneonta church, and graffiti on private property & businesses
in recent months, he was issued an appearance ticket for the City of Oneonta
Court at a later date.

The Bainbridge Chamber of Commerce will hold a Business
After Hours Event today, at My Home Gym On state Route 7.  The event will be held 6:00 to 8:00 PM this
evening.

The American Red Cross and the American Cancer Society have
teamed up to encourage people across the country to Give Blood to Give Time,
ensuring loved ones have the strength and support to battle cancer.  A blood drive is being held today at the
Bainbridge High School from 8:00 AM to 2:00 PM.

A State Budget Presentation will be held by Commissioner of
the Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services Major General Patrick
Murphy in Norwich today.  The presentation
will be held at 12:00 p.m. at the Northeast Classic Car Museum, Rexford Street
in Norwich.

The Tobacco Free Communities of Delaware Otsego &
Schoharie Counties will hold an open house & ribbon cutting today in
Oneonta today.  The organization will
open their office at 155 Main Street in Oneonta in Suite C; the event will run
from 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM & is open to the public.

State Police have released additional information about the
fatal snowmobile accident on Chipmunk Hollow Road in the town of Walton Friday
Evening.  46-year-old Jeffrey Benson of
Walton succumbed to hypothermia/cardiac arrest after he and his sled went through
ice.   Benson and a friend were riding on
snowmobiles across a pond when the friend observed Benson and his snowmobile
break through the ice and went back to assist Benson unsuccessfully.  The unidentified friend rode to the nearest
residence to call 911.   Benson was
located up to his neck in water and was pulled out of the pond the Walton Fire
Department and EMS, Benson was deceased.
No foul play was observed.

Delaware County Sheriff Deputies were dispatched Monday
Morning to a 1 car property damage auto accident in the McDonald’s parking lot
in Delhi.   19 year-old Andrew Lyon of
East Meredith collided with a protective pylon located near the restaurant’s
drive-thru, he was charged with Aggravated DWI, with a Blood Alcohol Content
more than 3 times the legal limit.  Lyon
was also issued numerous tickets for other infractions; he was arraigned in the
Town of Delhi Court and remanded to the Delaware County Correctional Facility
on lieu of $1,000 Cash Bail pending action in Town of Delhi Court at a later
date.

32 year old Nicolas Meridy of Oneonta will be held on
$50,000 cash bail or $100,000 bond, after arraignment Monday in Otsego County
Court on 4 felony counts, for his role in the October killing of 53 year old
Kenneth Robinson of Worcester.  Meridy
was previously being held without bail prior to the arraignment on Grand Jury
charges, he was charged with 2nd degree Murder, 1st degree Burglary, plus
attempted robbery & arson, along with Dylan Robinson & Alexander
Borgreen of Oneonta.

The Broome County Sheriff’s Office arrested 30 year old
Matthew Baxter of Harpursville Saturday following a domestic dispute in the
Town of Colesville.   Baxter allegedly
broke a chair over his mother's back while being under the influence of
narcotics, the victim sustained a serious physical injury and Baxter was
charged with 1st degree Assault, and was sent to the Broome County Correctional
Facility for processing.

The Unatego Central school District will hold their annual
Senior Citizens day tomorrow morning, with a variety of events scheduled,
according to Student Council Advisor Jeanne Butler:

(Jeanne Butler 12-10-19)

The event will begin at 8:30 Wednesday morning; The Unatego District
has hosted this event for about 10 years.

The Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services'
Office of Counter Terrorism conducted more than 1,000 counter terrorism
exercises throughout the state for the 2nd consecutive year. During these
exercises, state and local counter terrorism experts work in tandem to assess
the ability of businesses to recognize and report suspicious activity; so far
the Department of Homeland Security has conducted more than 3,500 exercises.

Chenango County Sheriff’s Department arrested William Hatton
of Oxford on a bench warrant issued by the Town of Norwich Court for the felony
of Grand Larceny.   Hatton was located
inside of a garage in Smithville at the residence and refused to come outside,
he was located hiding in a crawl space in the roof of the building & was
taken into custody, & was arraigned in the Town of Norwich Court & was
remanded to the Chenango County Jail on $2,000 cash bail.

Chenango County Sheriff’s
Department arrested 22 year old Andrew Palmer of Norwich on a warrant issued by
the Chenango County Court for violating his terms of Probation for a prior
charge of Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance; Palmer was remanded to
the Chenango County Correctional Facility without bail.

Governor Cuomo announced that opioid overdose deaths among
New York State residents, outside New York City, declined 15.9 percent in 2018
compared to 2017, the first decrease in 10 years. Over 1,900 people died from
opioid overdoses last year.  The progress
is the direct result of recommendations from the New York State Heroin and
Opioid Task Force, which Governor Cuomo convened in 2016 & reconvened
earlier this year.  The full report is
available at health.ny.gov.

The Award-winning hit musical JERSEY BOYS, the story of
Frankie Valli and The Four Seasons, will play the Forum Theatre
Tonight & Tomorrow night.  Tickets
can be purchased online at BroadwayInBinghamton.com, at The Arena Box Office or
through Ticketmaster at 1-800-745-3000.

The Otsego County Chamber of Commerce will hold their next
Business After Hours event today from 5:00 to 7:00 PM at Bombers Burrito Bar
221 Main Street in Oneonta.  The event
allows for chamber members to network with other area business owners.

Plans are underway to have the State Police in charge of
State Park Police, due to the soaring attendance at state parks.  Governor Cuomo stated that the change will
make it easier to deploy state resources to parks visited by 74 million people
a year; executive staff members will oversee the transition over the next 6
months.

Governor Cuomo announced $45 million has been awarded to 57
counties and New York City to enhance emergency communications. The funding
enables local governments to expand emergency response capabilities and enhance
overall public safety operations.
Locally,   Delaware County gets
$460,776, Chenango County $544,575 & Otsego County gets $679,156.

Governor
Cuomo today announced that New York State is partnering with the National
Supermarket Association and the Community Service Society of New York to help
feed thousands of people this Thanksgiving.
The Governor Said that Supermarkets across the state will deliver meals
to feed more than 35,000 people statewide.

State
Police will be offering an examination for Communication Specialist positions
across the state.  Communications
Specialists are responsible for all radio communications within a Troop’s
jurisdiction.   To apply and to receive
more information on the test and position; visit troopers.ny.gov/Employment.  Applications must be postmarked by November
26th.

The
State Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services' Office of Fire
Prevention and Control today urged New Yorkers to stay alert and focused while
cooking this season as more home cooking fires occur during the Thanksgiving
and Christmas holidays than at any other time of the year. Thanksgiving is the
one day which leads all others, in the most cooking related fires, causing an
average of 173,000 structure fires annually, resulting in an average of 550
deaths, 5,000 injuries and $1.2 billion in property damage.   Cooking fire safety tips are available at
dhses.ny.gov.

Spotted
lantern flies are causing problems in nearby states including Pennsylvania, the
New York DEC reported that it puts New York counties at risk.  Spotted lantern flies have bee transported to
the northeast in shipments that have come into the state, the insect feeds off
of dozens of different trees and crops crucial to the New York agricultural
economy.  DEC Officials reported that no
live Spotted lanternflies have been located in the state yet, but they are
concerned for next spring when their eggs hatch.  Anyone who thinks they have found a spotted
lantern fly or its egg mass can contact the DEC by emailing
spottedlanternfly@dec.ny.gov.

The
Delaware County Sheriff’s department announced that during the months of
October and November 2019, 28 members of the Delaware County Sheriff’s Office
Correctional Division participated in a varied form of “No-Shave
October/November”.  Officers raised
$1,105, which was divided evenly between the Delaware County Veterans Service
Agency and Delaware Opportunities-Safe Against Violence program.

Animal
Adventure Park announced today that Azizi, The last offspring of April the
Giraffe is heading to the East Texas Zoo & Gator Park in Grand Saline,
Texas, by next spring.  More than 300,000
people watched Azizi’s birth live on YouTube last March.  Officials said that April is now retired from
the park’s breeding program.

David
Dart has been denied parole again; he was convicted for the 1989 murder of
Gillian Gibbons in the Oneonta municipal parking lot.   Dart was sentenced to 25 years to life in
1991 for the Gibbons murder.  Dart has
had multiple parole hearings since first becoming eligible in 2014.

Governor
Cuomo today announced New York State Grown & Certified Christmas trees and
wreaths will be on display in the State's regional Welcome Centers and Taste NY
stores, promoting New York's agricultural and tourism industries.  New York's Christmas tree industry sells
nearly 300,000 trees from more than 750 tree farms located across the State.

NY
State of Health announced its partnership with food pantries for the third
holiday season to educate consumers about enrolling in affordable health
insurance. Food pantries across New York will have certified enrollment
assistors on-site throughout November and December to answer questions about
health coverage options and how to enroll in a health plan. This year, the
Marketplace is also offering eligible New Yorkers the option to receive
information on the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program during the
enrollment process.

Toys
For Tots & Norfolk Southern Railroad were unable to work out an agreement to
run its annual train through the southern Tier this year.  Last year, the train ran an abbreviated route
from Binghamton to Delanson, delivering about 18,000 toys to area organizations
for distribution.

State Comptroller Tom DiNapoli released a statement
regarding criminal charges filed against former Delhi village clerk Michelle
Barnes for theft of public funds. Dinapoli said that the charges resulted from
a joint investigation conducted by the Comptroller’s office and State Police,
Barnes allegedly wrote $4,788 in village checks to herself for her personal
use, & she faces grand larceny charges.

The National Transportation and Safety Board made 4 safety
recommendations as a result of the October 6th 2018 Schoharie Limousine crash
that killed 20 people. Federal lawmakers took those recommendations and
introduced a bipartisan bill aimed at closing the gaps in regulations on a
federal level, State lawmakers failed to pass limousine safety measures, they
may tackle it in the 2020 session.

Local Congressmen are split over the notion of pursuing
impeachment proceedings against President Trump.  19th District Congressman Antonio Delgado
released a statement over the weekend saying that it has become clear that the
president has placed his personal interests above the national security of our
nation by admitting to soliciting the Ukrainian president to investigate
potential Democratic President Nominee & former Vice President Joe Biden,
which Delgado said is an impeachable offense.
22nd District Congressman Anthony Brindisi stated that while the
allegations against the President regarding the call to the President of
Ukraine is troubling, he wants to first make sure that the impeachment is
Constitutional.

Funeral arrangements for Brooke Ketchum of Unadilla are
being handled by C.H. Landers Funeral Chapel at 21 Main Street in Sidney.   Ketchum died in an automobile accident in
the town of Otego Friday, Calling hours will be on Wednesday, October 9 from
2:00 to 4:00 PM with the funeral immediately following at 4:00pm. The family
invites those in attendance to the Sidney VFW for a reception following
services; donations can be made to a memorial fund for her 2 daughters.

State officials and members of the Division of Homeland
Security and Emergency Services' Office of Fire Prevention and Control will
preside over the 22nd Annual New York State Fallen Firefighters Memorial
Ceremony.   The Ceremony will honor 23
fallen firefighters who gave their lives in the line of duty, at the Empire
State Plaza Convention Center in Albany, tomorrow morning at 11:00 AM.

The 26th Annual Pit Run was Held in Oneonta Sunday.  The winner of the 10K race was Michael
Hamilton of Oneonta, the winner of the 5K was Charles Hollister on Oneonta,
Money raised benefits the Rick Parisian Memorial Scholarship fund, and Parisian
was a state Police Investigator who tried to stop an armed Robbery in an
Oneonta Grocery in 1994.

Governor Cuomo today signed
legislation prohibiting the performance or supervision of a pelvic exam on an
anesthetized or unconscious person without informed consent. The legislation
also makes it professional misconduct to perform unauthorized pelvic exams.
This legislation takes effect in 180 days.

The Delaware County Department of Public Works will hold the
23rd annual Clean Sweep October 25th & 26th; Delaware County Solid Waste
Coordinator Tyson Robb explains the schedule for those 2 days:

(Tyson Robb 10-7-19)

Residents are required to register online at
cleansweepdelaware.eventbrite.com, by phone at 865-6474 during normal weekday
business hours, or by email CleanSweepDelaware@gmail.com, all registrations are
accepted until October 18th.

The Award-winning hit musical JERSEY BOYS, the story of
Frankie Valli and The Four Seasons, will play the Forum Theatre on December
10th & 11th. Tickets go on sale today & can be purchased online at
BroadwayInBinghamton.com or at The Arena Box Office, or By-Phone through
Ticketmaster at 1-800-745-3000. More information is available at
BroadwayInBinghamton.com or JerseyBoysTour.com.

The Village of Unadilla Zoning Board of Appeals will hold a
Public Hearing, this evening at 6:00 PM at the Community House 193 Main Street,
regarding a variance for 215 Main Street and/or 6 Adams Street. More
information is available through Village Clerk- Treasurer Clarissa Riker at
369-3421.

The Unatego Central School District will be soliciting
proposals for repurposing the former Otego Elementary School, after the
previous developer failed to meet deadlines, Unatego Superintendent Dr. Dave
Richards comments:

(Dave Richards 9-9-19)

The Otego property consists of the 2 floor former elementary
school building & 4.85 acres of adjoining land.    The Request for Proposals is available
online at unatego.org, or through the District Office at 988-5038.

Governor announced he will advance legislation to make the
“New York Buy American” Act permanent.
The law requires all structural steel and structural iron used in all
state road and bridge construction projects with contracts worth more than $1 million
to be made in America.  The current law
is set to expire April 2020.

A.O. Fox Hospital, part of Bassett Healthcare Network, has
been awarded $10,000 by the MultiPlan Rural Health Grant Program to help launch
a food “farmacy” based at its Tri-Town Campus in Sidney.  Spokesperson Sarah Buttice comments:

(Sarah Buttice 9-9-19)

The prescription food location will open in January; Buttice
said that they will partner with local businesses including Great American,
Price Chopper, Hannaford, the Regional Food Bank of Northeastern New York, as
well as local farms and food pantries.
In Delaware County, it is estimated that more than 8,400 people suffer
from hunger.

Governor Cuomo is pushing to move up the state’s primary
Election Day from April to February, in order to get a larger voter turnout by
combining the presidential, congressional and state elections.  15 other states combine their primaries.

The Hancock Fire Department was dispatched to a 2 vehicle
head on, car vs tractor-trailer, with serious injuries on State Highway 17 in
the Village of Hancock early Sunday Morning.
1 victim was entrapped in the vehicle and another patient was injured
but not entrapped. The entrapped patient was extricated; both patients were
transported to Wilson Hospital with serious injuries. The cause of the accident
remains under investigation.

Governor Cuomo announced $10 million in grant funding to
strengthen local emergency response operations across the state through
improvements to 911 emergency service dispatch operations. The funding is
administered by the Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services
through the Public Safety Answering Points Operations Grant.  Locally, Chenango county received $179,000,
Delaware county $149,000 & Otsego County $164,000.

Governor Cuomo announced that the driver of the limousine involved in Saturday's in Schoharie, did not have the appropriate license to be driving the vehicle. Cuomo also announced today that the vehicle in question was inspected last month & failed the inspection. State attorneys are seeking a cease and desist order to stop Prestige Limo from operating until the investigation into the accident has been completed. 18 people in the vehicle, including the driver were killed; also 2 bystanders were killed in a convenience store parking lot when they were struck by a vehicle that had been struck by the limo. The investigation is continuing.

The state Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services' Office of Fire Prevention and Control held their 21st annual ceremony Monday morning in the Empire State Plaza Convention Center. 28 names were added today, many of the names added in recent years were from New York City Fire Department who died from illnesses associated with working at the World Trade Center after the September 11th 2001 terrorist attacks.

Corning announced that they will invest 11 million dollars for upgrades to their Oneonta Plant. The upgrades will allow for the company to keep 175 jobs at the plant, local officials also expect that the Corning Expansion could help attract more businesses to locate at the railyard redevelopment project area.

Drug Overdose deaths from Opioids have declined in Broome County. In the first 9 months of 2018, Officials said that there were 22 overdose deaths, in 2016 there were 60 deaths, and in 2017 there were 55. Most of the deaths were male, the average age was 41.

The city of Oneonta Department of Public Service will flush water mains in a portion of the low-service area, starting at 9:00 this morning. Work will continue until 4:00 PM, Flushing is expected to take place through the end of the week. Streets where service will be affected include Main Street and various side streets in the City’s East End.

The Delaware County Board of Elections reminds area residents interested in voting the in the November 6th General Election, need to register by this Friday October 12th, which is the last day to register in person and to postmark a registration form for the November 6th General Election. Registration forms and applications for absentee ballots may be found online at co.delaware.ny.us/departments or by calling 832-5321.

State Police and the Schoharie County Sheriff's Department responded to a motor vehicle crash at the intersection of State Route 30 and S30A in the town of Schoharie. A Ford Excursion limousine was traveling in a southwestern direction on State Route 30 and failed to stop at the intersection with State Route 30A. The limousine traveled across the intersection into a parking lot and struck a 2015 Toyota Highlander which was unoccupied and parked; the Highlander then struck and killed 2 pedestrians. 20 victims were killed, all 18 in the limousine, including the driver, and the two pedestrians. The investigation is ongoing.

Otsego County Sheriff Department arrested 31 year old Joel Young of Exeter, after he pointed a shotgun at a Sheriff’s Deputy during a domestic dispute call. The deputy entered the residence and attempted to arrest the defendant, who fled from into his bedroom & retrieved a shotgun and pointed it at the Deputy. Young was taken in to custody following a physical struggle, he was arrested for Menacing a police officer, Criminal Possession of Weapon, Resisting Arrest & Harassment, he was arraigned in the Town of Otsego Court, & was remanded to the Otsego County Jail on $20,000 cash bail or $40,000 bond and he is scheduled to reappear at a later date.

State DOT announced the completion of a $2.7 million pavement resurfacing project on Interstate 88 in the town and city of Oneonta. The 3.9-mile improvement project between Exit 13 and 16 included the milling & repaving, the shoulders were also given a surface treatment and all pavement markings were replaced. Curb ramps at the ends of the Exit 14 and Exit 15 off ramps were improved to comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act.

Fire Prevention Week is this week & the Firemen's Association of the State of New York is urging New Yorkers to ensure their smoke alarms are in proper working order, they specifically encourage New Yorkers to install smoke alarms equipped with sealed-in, non-removable batteries that last for 10 years. According to the National Fire Protection Association, three of every five home fire deaths occur in homes without smoke alarms or working smoke alarms. Firefighters frequently encounter smoke alarms with missing or dead batteries.

Physician Assistant Alyssa MacIntosh of UHS Women’s Health Center in Norwich will hold a discussion about Breast Cancer & earl y detection in a free presentation today at Bohemian Moon, 103 W. Main Street in Norwich. An optional buffet and cash bar will be available at 6 p.m., with the presentation and discussion to start at 7 p.m. The event is part of UHS Chenango Memorial’s 2018 Women’s Health Series, which will conclude on Monday, November 12 with a discussion on pre-diabetes and diabetes risk factors. More information is available at 337-4183.

The Peanuts gang will be coming to The Forum, Binghamton, on November 20th at 6:00pm for A Charlie Brown Christmas Live On Stage. Tickets are on sale Monday, October 8th at 10:00am at the arena box office, Ticketmaster.com or by calling (800) 745-3000. The Emmy and Peabody award-winning story by Charles Schulz originally aired on television over 50 years ago.

The Raymond Corporation in Greene announced that they will hold a Career fair on September 8th & September 12, as the international Forklift manufacturing leader looks to expand their workforce. Raymond Vice President Steve VanNorstrand told WCDO News that it is easy to register for a specific time frame for an interview at their career fair:

(Steve VanNorstrand 8-21-18)

Raymond Corporation is looking to add about 75 people to their current levels of about 1850 employees; Hours for the Career Fair on September 8th will be from 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM, and on September 12th from 3:00 to 7:00 PM.

Tourism-related dollars spent in Delaware County in 2017 have grown to nearly $112 million, according to a report issued by Tourism Economics for New York State Empire State Development Division of Tourism; Delaware County Chamber of Commerce President Ray Pucci comments:

(Ray Pucci 8-21-18)

The report showed that tourist spending statewide increased by 4.4%, growth in the Catskills region increased by 7.1%, while Delaware County saw an increase of 11.6% in 2017. Pucci said that tourism dollars translates into 1,100 Jobs, which translates into $38 Million in Labor Income recirculating into the County's economy. More information is available at delawarecounty.org or 746-2281.

Broome, Chenango, Delaware and Otsego counties will all receive funding to support emergency response operations, as part of a statewide program administered by the Department of Homeland Security and Emergency Services. Funding will be used for upgrades in call-taking and dispatching technology, including investing in new services such as text messaging, data communication and improvements to geo-location for emergency response. Local Assemblyman Cliff Crouch said that Broome County was awarded $194,069, Chenango County $179,215, Delaware County $168,096 and Otsego County $157,615.

The State Labor Department released the statistics for the month of July today, as unemployment statewide fell 2/10's to 4.3%. Locally, Chenango County had 4.1% unemployment, Delaware County had 4.7% & Otsego County had 4.3% in July.

State Police arrested 39 year old Christopher McMahon of Fenton for Criminal Mischief & Reckless Endangerment, following a complaint that McMahon was damaging a window of a vehicle. McMahon allegedly threw an item at the victim's windshield while both vehicles were in motion, causing damage. McMahon was arrested and released on appearance tickets; he will appear in the town of Fenton Court on August 23rd.

Reports from South Carolina said that it was a Union-Endicott teacher from Broome County New York who was attacked and killed by an alligator while walking her dog near her vacation home in South Carolina. 45 year old Cassandra Cline was a kindergarten teacher at the Johnson Elementary School, investigators said that the alligator went for the dog first, Cline tried to rescue the dog when the 9 foot alligator attacked her & pulled her several feet into the lagoon.

Governor Cuomo signed legislation to further protect children from exposure to secondhand smoke. The bill prohibits individuals from smoking in facilities that provide child care services, including private homes. All facilities required to be licensed or registered for child care services must comply with the smoking ban within 90 days.

The Bainbridge Chamber of Commerce will hold their next general membership meeting today at the back of Bob’s Diner. The meeting will begin at 7:30 am.

Governor Cuomo today announced that applications from non-profit non-public schools and day care centers, are now being accepted for the $25 million Securing Communities Against Hate Crimes Grant program, for grants to strengthen security and prevent hate crimes or attacks against these facilities because of their ideology, beliefs or mission. The grant is administered by the State Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services, & could provide up to $50,000 for security upgrades. Applications are due by December 18th.

The Chenango Substance Abuse Prevention Coalition in collaboration with The Chenango County Sheriff’s Office & The Norwich City Police Department will hold 3 National Drug Take-Back Month Events this Saturday. The events will be held between 10:00 AM & 1:30 PM at the Norwich Police Department at 18 East Main Street, the Bainbridge Town Hall at 33 West Main Street & the Smyrna Town Hall at 7 East Main Street. Unwanted or expired medications will be accepted at the event, organizers remind those bringing in the unwanted meds, to have them in their original containers.

Governor Cuomo has vetoed a bill that would ban gravity knives. The Governor stated that overly broad language in the legislation would have applied to too many knives. A compromise on the bill failed to be passed in the final days of the 2017 session of the legislature in Albany, Cuomo said that bill approved by lawmakers was not a sufficient improvement from a previous plan that tightened up the definition of a “gravity knife.” The proposed compromise by the governor’s office would have addressed issues raise by police departments and added protections for workers who carrying knives as part of their jobs.

8 of the Baseball’s most recognizable voices have been named as the finalists for the 2018 Ford C. Frick Award, presented annually for excellence in baseball broadcasting by the National Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum. The 8 finalists for the 2018 Award include Joe Buck, Bob Costas, Al Michaels, & Joe Morgan, the winner will be announced on December 13th at baseball’s Winter Meetings and will be honored during the July 28 Awards Presentation in Cooperstown.

ACHIEVE Broome-Chenango-Tioga welcomes the community to visit their Chenango Day Habilitation facility, at 214 County Route 44 in Norwich on Tuesday November 2nd for light refreshments provided by Canasawacta Country Club and an introduction to ACHIEVE and the services they provide.

High winds led to a number of power outages across the Southern Tier overnight & into Tuesday afternoon. NYSEG reported that about 350 customers were without power in the town of Sidney & about 60 in the Town of Bainbridge, as of 2:00 this afternoon. NYSEG Crews were working on restoring power as quickly as possible.

Governor Cuomo signed legislation adding electronic cigarettes to the Clean Indoor Air Act, which bans their use everywhere that smoking tobacco products are prohibited. The bill would reduce the exposure to potentially dangerous chemicals for e-cigarette users and those around them. Under current law, only smoking substances containing tobacco, including cigars, cigarettes or pipes, are restricted in public places.

The Chenango County Farm Bureau the 62nd Annual Meeting is starting at 6:30 PM tonight at the Silo Restaurant in Greene. State Senator Fred Akshar, a representative from Senator Seward’s office and Assemblyman Cliff Crouch have been invited.

The Chenango County Health Department announces another Flu Vaccination Clinic to be held today. The Clinic will be held from 5:00 to 7:00 PM at the Bainbridge Firehouse. Registrations or more information is available at 337-1660.

NBT Bancorp reported record net income for both the 3 months & 9 months periods ending September 30th. Net income for the last quarter was $22.9 million, up from $21.4 million for the 2nd quarter of 2017 and up from $20.0 million for the third quarter of last year. Net income for the 9 months of 2017 was $64.5 million, up 9.7% from $58.8 million for the same period last year.

James Brower and Tobias Rundstrom-Wooding were indicted by a Chenango County Grand Jury last week; they were arraigned in Chenango County Court on the indictment charges today. Rundstrom-Wooding was indicted last week on 8 counts including 1st & 2nd degree murder, plus 1st degree rape, tampering with physical evidence, possession of a sexual performance by a child and making false statements, his bail was set at $500,000 cash or $1 million bond. Brower had a 4-count indictment which included a 2nd-degree murder, hindering prosecution, tampering with physical evidence and making false statements, his bail was set at $400,000 cash or $800,000 bond. Both men are accused of the rape and murder of 11 year old Jacelyn O'Connor in the town of Norwich in July.

Sidney Village Police announced the arrest of 60-year-old Jesse Riglioni of Sidney on a sealed indictment warrant, for criminal sale of a controlled substance. Friday's arrest followed a 3 month investigation into the sale of narcotics in the village of Sidney, Rigliono is accused of selling cocaine in Sidney, he was remanded to the Delaware County Jail without bail, state Police assisted in the investigation.

Governor Cuomo has proclaimed this week as Sheriff’s Week in New York State, which celebrates the significant contributions made Sheriff’s Departments in county government and in the statewide criminal justice system. 55 of New York's 58 sheriffs are elected officials, accountable to the citizen voter every 4 years and responsible for the operations of a sheriff’s office, which can include traffic patrols, emergency rescue operations, homeland security programs, SWAT operations, civil emergency response, jail operations, courtroom security, and civil litigation process.

Delaware County Sheriff’s Deputies arrested 36-year-old David Alleyne of Delhi Friday on charges of operating a vehicle without an attached front license plate, criminal possession of a hypodermic instrument, and driving while ability impaired by drugs following a traffic stop in the Village of Delhi. Alleyne was arraigned and was remanded to the Delaware County Jail in lieu of $1000 bail.

Responding to the reported Equifax Breach last week affecting about 150 Million Americans, Governor Cuomo today directed the Department of Financial Services to issue a new regulation making credit reporting agencies to register with New York for the first time and comply with this state's first-in-the-nation cyber security standard. The Department Superintendent will also have the authority to deny and revoke a consumer credit reporting agency's authorization to do business in New York if they are not in compliance.

The Chenango Arts Council will have Smyrna Native Matt Nakoa performing at the Martin W. Kappel Theater this Saturday, to start the Chenango Arts Council's 2017-18 season. Executive Director Alecia O'Neill explains:

(Alecia O'Neill 9-18-17)

Nakoa played as part of last year's season, and has even played the White House in his young career, Tickets are available at 336-ARTS or at ChenangoArts.org.

The Sidney Center Tractor Parade on Saturday drew a large group of participants again this year. 169 vehicles participated, which included 91 tractors parading through the hamlet of Sidney Center Saturday.

Delaware County Sheriff’s Deputies arrested 42-year-old Amanda Losurdo of Delhi for violation of parole. The arrest occurred during the course of assisting the Delaware County Probation Department, where it was determined that Losurdo was in violation of the conditions of her parole. Losurdo was taken into custody and turned over to the Delaware County Correctional Facility, to await the future action of the State Department of Corrections or by a court.

Casey Callahan was found guilty Friday morning in Otsego County Court of 2nd degree murder in the death of his wife, Elizabeth Callahan in 2000 in Pennsylvania. The jury began deliberations Thursday & announced its decision Friday, Callahan will be sentenced October 30th in Otsego County Court.

The Village of Sidney Board of Trustees will hold a special board meeting on Monday, September 18, 2017 at 7 AM in the board room of the Sidney Civic Center, 21 Liberty St., Sidney, NY 13838. The purpose of this meeting is to approve the grant funding on the Construction of a Full Length Parallel Taxiway at the Sidney Municipal Airport.

An estimated 3000 people attended the Funeral of New York State Trooper Timothy Pratt today in South Glens Falls. Trooper Pratt was killed last week, while he was assisting a tractor-trailer driver stuck on a median in the town of Wilton, & was accidentally struck by a second vehicle driven by 59 year old Joel Duguay of Corinth. Trooper Pratt was a 30-year veteran of the State Police and also served in the United States Air Force for 7 years prior to becoming a New York State Trooper.

Governor Cuomo announced the availability of $45 million for counties to improve their emergency communications systems and upgrade technology. Each county and New York City can submit applications to fund projects involving infrastructure, equipment and technology upgrades. The grant is administered by the state Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services. Applications must be received via email by December 8th at Grant.Info@dhses.ny.gov.

The 2016 Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree will be a Norway Spruce tree, that will be removed from the property of Angie & Greg Eichler at 72 Country Club Road in the town of Oneonta. The Tree will be cut down November 12th and will be taken to New York City November 12th, and will be lit up in Rockefeller Plaza November 30th, live on Network Television.

Norwich City Police, Fire fighters & EMT's responded to a 2 vehicle crash, into a house at 88 South Broad Street. 1 person was removed from the scene by ambulance, following the noontime accident. More details are expected to be released following the conclusion of the accident investigation.

Delaware County Deputies arrested 22-year-old Courtney Jennings of Walton Thursday on an arrest warrant for Menacing, Criminal Trespass & Endangering the Welfare of a Child, On Sunday, Deputies then arrested 45-year-old Donald Jennings of Hancock, for Menacing & Endangering the Welfare of a Child. Both were charged in connection with a recent altercation at a residence in the Town of Colchester. Both were arraigned & were released pending future court action.

A holiday tradition of the American Red Cross New York kicks off tomorrow, November 1st, as they will give away a $50 VISA gift card every day throughout the month. Also, All donors during November will be entered in the daily Turkey-A-Day Giveaway. To donate blood, download the American Red Cross Blood Donor App, visit redcrossblood.org or call 1-800-RED CROSS.

Tickets went on sale today for the Musical "Once" which will be performed for 2 shows on Sunday December 11th at the Forum Theater on at 3 & 7:30 PM. Tickets for "ONCE" go on sale at the Arena Box Office, through Ticketmaster at 800-745-3000 or ticketmaster.com, more information is available at BroadwayInBinghamton.com.

In April, the Department of Defense ordered a stop shipment at Amphenol of Sidney, which led to a layoff of about 100 employees, an expected 2 year wait for the order to be lifted, but today, U.S Senator Charles Schumer, Congressman Chris Gibson & Amphenol leaders announced that the ordered was revered in 4 months, the federal red tape was cut through & the employees have returned to the Sidney facility. Senator Schumer responded:

(Schumer 8-29-16)

Congressman Gibson also discussed the reversal of fortune for Amphenol:

(Gibson 8-29-16)

Others who addressed the press conference today were Sidney mayor Andy Matviak, Amphenol General Manager Ryan Fisher & Amphenol CEO Adam Norwitt.

Upstate New York lags behind downstate New York and the nation in job growth since the Great Recession, according to a report issued by State Comptroller Tom DiNapoli. Since June 2009, total employment in upstate New York rose by 0.3 percent compared to 2.2 percent in the downstate region and 1.9 percent nationwide during the same time frame. The overall average annual wage gain in upstate of 3.3 percent outpaced both the downstate and national averages in 2015. Currently, total employment across upstate stands at slightly over 3 million, representing 32 percent of all jobs statewide.

In a letter sent this week, State Senator Fred Akshar joined Senate Health Committee Chairman Kemp Hannon in calling Attorney General Eric Schneiderman to investigate the sharp increase in the cost of EpiPens. Between 2007 and 2016, the cost of an EpiPen has increased from $57 to approximately $500. The letter stated that some have resorted to using expired EpiPens, buying Epinephrine abroad, or using needles from local pharmacies to administer their medication, Emergency First Responders are affected as well.

On Sunday, the Delaware County Sheriffs Deputies arrested 25-year-old Cody Satkowski of Fish’s Eddy, after Satkowski was involved in a motor vehicle accident on County Highway 17 in the Town of Hancock. Satkowski was in possession of marihuana and found to be operating a motor vehicle while intoxicated, he was charged with aggravated DWI and unlawful possession of marihuana & he will appear at the Town of Hancock Court at a later date.

The Ithaca Police Department is opening a homicide investigation after one of two Ithaca College students stabbed on the Cornell campus early Sunday morning, was pronounced dead at Cayuga Medical Center. 19-year-old Anthony Nazaire of Brooklyn was killed, a 2nd student was injured, and was treated and released from a Syracuse area hospital. The incident occurred at around 2:00 AM Sunday at the conclusion of a campus event, several altercations broke out as students left the hall, and police are looking at video recorded by witness on their phones.

A "major announcement" will be made at 3 p.m. today at Amphenol Aerospace in Sidney, according to the office of U.S. Senator Charles Schumer. Schumer will be joined by Amphenol Aerospace CEO Adam Norwitt, Sidney facility executives, employees and local leaders.

The Maine-Endwell Little League Team beat South Korea, 2-1, to win the Little League World Series on Sunday, becoming the first US team to win the title since 2011 and the first team from New York to win since 1964. Maine-Endwell ended its perfect season 24-0. The Team will be welcomed back with a parade this morning at 11:15 a.m. starting at Hooper Road and Watson Boulevard, ending at the little league field at Struggle Road.

State Police arrested 28 year old Cassandra Reithoffer of Nineveh, for 2nd degree burglary, after troopers were advised of a burglar at a home on O’Brien Road in the Town of Sanford. Reithoffer allegedly forced entry into the home and stole over $2,000 in property from it. Reithoffer was arraigned in the Town of Sanford court and was remanded to the Broome County jail with no bail set.

State Police arrested 21 year old Mohammad Sadique of Woodmere for criminal possession of a controlled substance, unlawful possession of marihuana and traffic violations. Sadique was observed speeding at 60 mph, while in a 30 mph zone, on Lower Main Street in the Town of Oneonta. Sadique was found to unlawfully possess a small amount of LSD and marihuana. He was issued tickets returnable to the Town of Oneonta court on September 6th.

Chenango County Sheriff’s department arrested 32 year old Corey Weidman following a traffic stop in the Town of Norwich for an equipment violation. Weidman exited the car and dropped a warm marihuana pipe with burnt and un-burnt marihuana; he was charged with unlawful possession of marihuana & was released on an appearance ticket for Town of Norwich Court at a later date. Deputies then arrested Weidman’s passenger 26 year old Heather Steigerwald of Oxford for criminal contempt possession of a controlled substance, for allegedly possessing two narcotic prescription pills concealed in her bra and unlawful possession of marihuana, she was processed and released on an appearance ticket to appear in the Town of Norwich Court at a later date.

Governor Cuomo announced that the Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services and Office of Fire Prevention and Control will visit the state’s colleges and universities to conduct inspections, education programs, and a series of campus fire safety education training days. In the last year, Office of Fire Prevention and Control has conducted 23,689 inspections.