WCDO Radio News

State Police responded to an Otsego County 911 report of a fatal injury at a work site on Bissell Road in the Town of Otsego. 27 year old Adam Burgess of Laurens was working as part of a 3-man crew cutting and clearing roadside trees for the Town of Otsego Highway Department, Burgess was accidentally stuck by a falling tree, He was transported to Bassett Medical Center in Cooperstown, and pronounced deceased from injuries consisting of a skull fracture, no autopsy would be performed.

DraftKings and FanDuel will head to court today to try to continue operation in New York, as Attorney General Eric Schneiderman tries to shut them down. Schneiderman said that both fantasy websites are misleading the public with deceptive advertising and violating the state's gambling laws, while FanDuel and DraftKings argue that it's not gambling, but a game of skill. If the judge decides to keep fantasy sports out of New York, it would affect more than 600,000 players based in the state who spent at least $200 million in entry fees in 2015

Governor Cuomo announced that temporary lane closures associated with road and bridge construction projects on New York State highways will not be permitted today through Monday, at 6:00 AM, in order to accommodate motorists during the busy Thanksgiving holiday travel week. Some work may continue behind permanent concrete barriers or for emergency repairs.

The American Red Cross encourages eligible donors to give blood to help ensure a sufficient blood supply throughout the holiday season. Donors with all blood types are needed, and especially those with types O negative, B negative, A negative and AB. To donate blood, people can download the Red Cross Blood Donor App, visit redcrossblood.org or call 1-800-RED CROSS; today’s blood drive is from 12:30 to 5:30 PM at the Church of the Immaculate Conception, 1180 State Highway 206 in Gr

State Police at Sidney arrested 35 year old Sarah Cahill of Greene, for driving while ability impaired by drugs, after troopers responded to a Chenango County 911 report of a car crashing into a the front porch of a home on State Route 12 in the Town of Greene. troopers accuse Cahill of driving off the road, through a field into the home, she passed out, came to & attemtped to leave the scene. teh arrest is a felony because Cahill had a prior conviction for driving while impaired by drugs in the last ten years. She was arraigned in the Town of Oxford court and was remanded to the Chenango County jail in lieu of $500 cash bail or $2,000 property bond pending court action today.

State Police at Sidney arrested 31-year-old Scott Frawley of Bainbridge for aggravated DWI with a BAC result of .22%. Frawley was observed driving a vehicle without a working tail lamp while on Maple Street in the Town of Afton, Frawley was issued tickets returnable to the Town of Afton court on December 7th.

Delaware County Sheriff’s Deputies arrested 30 year old Cassandra Castle of Bainbridge, following a traffic stop on State Route 206, in the Town of Walton. Castle was charged with Aggravated Unlicensed Operation of a Motor Vehicle, she was arraigned in the Town of Walton Court & was released after posting $1000 cash bail & will appear in the Town of Walton Court at a later date.

State police reported that 66-year-old Robert Homik of New Jersey was working his seasonal residence at 202 Vandeusen Road in Davenport when he tripped on the dock, fell into the pond & drowned Monday. Homik’s wife attempted a rescue, called 911 and yelled for help from a neighbor. Homik was declared dead at 1:48 p.m. due to accidental drowning.

State police announced that they will host a community policing meeting on Wednesday December 2nd at the Stamford Fire Department from 700 to 9:00 PM. Police will discuss law enforcement operations, & the mission priorities of the state police, community concerns will also be addressed. There will be a question & answer period. Topics scheduled to be discussed include the school liaison program, traffic safety & community & police interaction.

Delaware County Sheriff Deputies arrested 19-year-old Keegan McCumber of Guilford in the Town of Franklin Saturday, when a vehicle had passed them on State Highway 357 with a loud exhaust. When Deputies attempted to stop the vehicle McCumber failed to comply, after a short pursuit, he was stopped in a driveway on Main Street in Franklin. , McCumber was arrested for Aggravated DWI, loud exhaust, driving left of payment markings, failure to use turn signal and failure to comply, he will appear in Town of Franklin Court at a later date

A Town of Bainbridge resident was arrested on an active arrest warrant by the Chenango County Sheriffs department. 26-year-old Richard Margarum was wanted on a charge of Criminal Possession of Stolen property, he was arrested at a Town of Afton residence, upon arrest, he was found that he was in possession of a controlled substance. Margarum was arraigned in the Town of Norwich Court and remanded to the Chenango County Correctional Facility. Margarum was also issued an appearance ticket to appear in the Town of Afton Court at a later date.

The Chenango County Sheriffs department arrested 32-year-old Rhiannon Browne of Norwich for Welfare Fraud & Offering a False Instrument for filing. Browne was issued appearance tickets and released. It is alleged that alleged that Browne failed to report a change in her household composition, which resulted in her receiving more than $63,000 in assistance she was not entitled to from 2008 through 2014.

Governor Cuomo today announced that GEICO is the first insurance company in New York State to complete the certification process through the New York State Department of Motor Vehicles to allow customers to begin using electronic identification cards on their smart phones and other electronic devices. At the Governor’s direction, DMV amended its regulations in April 2015 to allow insurance companies to issue e-cards to their customers. This new feature will be available to New York customers on the GEICO app starting tomorrow.

NYSEG and Rochester Gas & Electric will mark a milestone this month as the 50,000th refrigerator or freezer is picked up through the companies’ recycling program that began in 2011. The recycling program pays customers $50 for an energy-wasting refrigerator or freezer still in working condition. Customers can also save up to $150 a year in electricity costs by removing energy-wasting units from their homes. Customers can call 1-877-691-0021 toll-free to schedule a free pick-up of an old, working, energy-inefficient refrigerator or freezer picked at their home. They can also schedule a pick-up online at www.nyseg.com.

Governor Cuomo announced households that need help paying their heating bills this winter can begin applying for assistance from the Home Energy Assistance Program today. Eligible households can receive a one-time benefit of up to $625 this winter depending upon income, household size and heating source. Last winter in the Southern Tier; over 56,000 households received assistance. More information is available at myBenefits.ny.gov.

The Town of Sidney Zoning board of appeals will conduct a public meeting at 7:00 pm at the Sidney Civic Center board room, To continue examining findings of the Town Code Official in regards to further developing the KOA campground at 242 Union Church Road Franklin.

The Cancer Services Program of Delaware, Otsego and Schoharie counties will offer free health screenings to women 40 and older who are uninsured or underinsured, today from 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM at Family Planning of Oneonta, 37 Dietz Street. Appointments can be made at 1-888-345-0225.

The American Red Cross encourages eligible donors to give blood to help ensure a sufficient blood supply. Donors with all blood types are needed, and especially those with types O negative, B negative, A negative and AB. Blood drives today will be in Sidney from 1:30 to 6:30 PM at Tri-Town Regional Hospital & in Unadilla from 1:30 to 6:30 PM at St. Matthews Church, at 254 Main Street. To make an appointment to donate blood, people can download the Red Cross Blood Donor App from app stores, visit redcrossblood.org or call1-800-RED CROSS.

Delaware County Sheriff’s Investigators arrested 38-year-old Richard Swislosky of Sidney on Wednesday on a Sealed Grand Jury Indictment Warrant. Swislosky was arrested by Delaware County Sheriff's Office on October 8th and charged with Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance and Criminal Possession of a Forged Instrument, following an investigation by the Sheriffs department, Probation Department & the Village of Sidney Police Department for allegedly trafficking heroin in Sidney and Oneonta. A Delaware County Grand Jury indicted Swislosky on those charges and 2 additional charges of Criminal Sale of a Controlled Substance, for allegedly selling heroin in the Sidney area prior to his October 8th arrest. Swislosky was arraigned on the new charges & was remanded back to the Delaware County Jail on $100,000 cash bail pending further court action.

36 year old Jamie Blewett of Norwich was sentenced to consecutive prison terms of 1 to 3 years this week, she had pleaded guilty in July to 2 counts each for robbery & grand larceny, in connection with Bank Robberies in May at the People’s Security Bank and Trust in the Town of Chenango, and another robbery a week later at the at People’s Security Bank in Conklin.

State Police arrested 57-year-old Robert Crowley of Windsor for 2 counts of 3rd degree Grand Larceny. The arrest followed an investigation for missing money from the bank accounts of the Windsor Youth Sports Programs. Crowley is accused of taking about $18,000 from the account while serving as the director of the program. Crowley was arraigned in the Town of Windsor court and was released without bail required. The investigation is ongoing.

51-year-old Joyce Mitchell was ordered to pay nearly $80,000 in restitution to New York State, for helping to get 2 inmates out of the Clinton Correctional facility earlier this year. Mitchell is being ordered to pay for repairs needed at the jail after she provided tools to Richard Matt and David Sweat to cut their way out. Mitchell pleaded guilty to charges related to the escape and was sentenced to 2-1/3rd to 7 years in prison. Matt was shot dead, Sweat was located, shot & wounded 2 days after Matt’s death, both men were on the run from police for about 3 weeks.

The Unatego Cue & Curtain Theater group will have performances of Cinderella this coming weekend. Director Sandy Bonczkowski comments:

(Sandy Bonczkowski 11-6-15)

Bonczkowski said that tickets will be available prior to each performance at the door, the shows are tonight & Saturday night at 7:00 PM and a Sunday matinee is at 2:00 PM at the Unatego High School Auditorium.

State Police arrested 31-year-old Dax Marshall of Oneonta for aggravated driving while intoxicated with a B.A.C. result of .18%, more than twice the legal limit. This arrest occurred after a traffic stop for speeding on East End Avenue in the City of Oneonta. Marshall was issued tickets for City of Oneonta court.

State Senator Jim Seward joined officials with the State DOT Thursday to reopen the fully rehabilitated Worcester rest area on Interstate 88 eastbound between exits 18 and 19. In 2010, the DOT closed six rest areas on interstate highways in what was announced as a cost saving measure. Senator Seward objected to the closings and joined local officials and transportation advocates to press for their reopening.

(Seward 11-6-15)

Senator Seward secured an additional $2.5 million in the state budget to perform the same work at the Wells Bridge rest area, Work on the parking lot rehabilitation began in the summer, improvements to the building are being designed and construction is expected to occur in 2016.

Pathfinder Village of Edmeston, announced that a Donor & press event for the new $1.2 million Dr. William Streck Community Health Center would be held on Friday November 6th from 4:00 to 6:00 PM. The new 3,800 square foot Health Center is just east of Pathfinder Village, off of State Route 80, Pathfinder Village will lease the new facility to Bassett Healthcare Network, which will oversee medical operations. The new health center replaces an older, smaller clinic in Edmeston, and is expected to offer expanded access to healthcare services to area residents.

The Bainbridge Chamber recognition dinner will be at The Sundown Golf Club on Saturday, at 6:00 to honor the Richard Metzger as the 2015 Citizen of the Year along with Highway 7 Bar & Restaurant as the Business of the Year.

Today is Election day, with interesting races In the 52nd State Senate race, Delaware County’s First Ever family Court Judge race, Chenango County District Attorney, and town supervisor races in Franklin, oxford, Harpersfield & Guilford & Town Council races in Sidney, & Franklin locally. Polls will be open until 9:00 tonight.

State Police arrested 23-year-old Cody Mabe of Pharsalia for fleeing an officer in a motor vehicle, resting arrest and several other traffic violations. This arrest occurred after a short pursuit that started when a trooper observed Mabe driving without a front license plate and attempted to make a traffic stop on State Route 23 in the Town of Pharsalia. After refusing to comply, Mabe drove away. The pursuit ended when he drove near his home and fled into the woods. He was arrested shortly after. Mabe was arraigned in the Town of Pharsalia court and was released without bail required. His next court date in the Town of Pharsalia is on November 5, 2015

Governor Cuomo & U.S. Senator Charles Schumer are urging the leadership at Kraft-Heinz to spare 3 New York plants that may be on the chopping block, following the merger of the 2 industry giants. One of the plants operates in Walton and employs about 150 people.

The General Clinton Canoe Regatta Committees will meet this evening in Bainbridge. The Meeting will be held at the Highway 7 Bar and Grill, the 6:30 Race committee meeting, it will be followed at 7:30 with the Regular meeting.

The Unatego Cue & Curtain Theater group will have performances of Cinderella this coming weekend. Director Sandy Bonczkowski comments:

(Sandy Bonczkowski 11-3-15)

Bonczkowski said that about 35 students are participating in the performance, they started auditioning & preparing back in June.

The Bainbridge Chamber of Commerce will hold their annual awards dinner this weekend, chamber spokesman Bruce Kellogg explains:

(Bruce Kellogg 11-3-15)

More information is available by calling the Bainbridge Chamber at 967-8700.

Oneonta Police Department arrested 23-year-old Jeremiah Vonberg of Oneonta for 1st degree Rape & Criminal Possession of a weapon. Vonberg was arrested following an investigation of an incident on October 17th. Vonberg was held pending arraignment in the City of Oneonta court,

State Police arrested 41-year-old Robert McLintock of Edmeston for criminal possession of a weapon and unlawful possession of marihuana. This arrest occurred after a traffic stop for driving with a brake lamp not working on State Route 20 in the Town of Richfield. During the stop it was determined that he unlawfully possessed an unregistered handgun and marihuana. McLintock was arraigned and was released without bail required pending court action on November 4th.

Attorney General Eric Schneiderman stated that his office is operating a statewide Election Day Hotline today. Voters encountering barriers to access at their polling sites can report those issues to the Attorney General’s Office by calling the hotline at 800-771-7755, from 6:00 A.M. until 9:00 P.M. today.

Sidney Town Clerk Lisa French announced that she is running for Sidney town clerk unopposed. French pointed out that recent published reports suggested that she was running for Sidney Town Supervisor, which is not up for election this year.

Governor Andrew Cuomo announced today that State Police, local and municipal law enforcement agencies will increase patrols to crack down on drunk driving and underage drinking this Halloween weekend. The special traffic enforcement detail will begin today and continue through Sunday. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, from 2009 to 2013, 43% of all people killed in motor vehicle crashes across the U.S. on Halloween night were in crashes involving a drunk driver. Motorists can expect to see a number of sobriety checkpoints and additional patrols. Troopers will also conduct a special enforcement detail to crack down on the sale of alcohol to minors.

State Senator Jim Seward will be in Oneonta today at the City Public Safety Building in Oneonta, along with Assemblyman Bill Magee, Oneonta Mayor Gary Herzig, and Oneonta Fire Chief Patrick Pidgeon to inspect the fire department’s recently delivered ladder truck. Both Seward and Magee secured a total of $500,000 in state funds to assist in the purchase of the new truck.

The Firemen's Association of the State of New York is urging residents to check their smoke and carbon monoxide alarms as daylight saving time approaches. Officials with the Association stated that smoke and carbon monoxide alarms should be cleaned to remove any debris that could prevent them from working properly. Older alarms that have removable batteries should receive a new pair. More information is available at fasny.com.

On Sunday, the Chenango County American Legion will host a joint visitation by the Legion's State Commander James Yermas, & State Auxiliary President Jan Mahoney among others. the leaders will visit Oxford's Fort Hill Post 376, the Veterans' Home at Oxford, the Chenango County Sheriff's Department in Norwich, followed by a reception & dinner at the Lieutenant Warren Eaton, DSC Post 189, at 29 Sheldon Street, Norwich.

Governor Cuomo commemorated the three-year anniversary of Superstorm Sandy and released a report detailing the continued progress made by New York State. It underscores the advancements made in rebuilding homes, businesses, and large-scale infrastructure projects in communities and neighborhoods, as spearheaded by the Governor's Office of Storm Recovery. More information can be found at stormrecovery.ny.gov.

26-year-old Timothy Green of New Berlin has been charged with forgery and Grand Larceny following an investigation by the State office of the Inspector General. Green was a substitute worker for the New York State Office for the People with Developmental Disabilities in Norwich, he is accused of submitting fraudulent time sheets for work that he did not do, which resulted in over $39,000 in payments. Green was arraigned in the Town of Guilford court and remanded to the Chenango County jail on $50,000 cash bail or $100,000 property bond.

the City of Oneonta began investigating a decrease in sanitary sewer flow into the wastewater treatment plant, as compared to historical averages. On Monday, a flow variation was identified in the line between Market Street and Neahwa Park, on wedensdya an outside contractor was brought in with equipment sufficient to inspect the line, and a partial collapse of the underground 30” sanitary sewer line flowing near the Millrace was identified. a significant quantity of untreated wastewater has emtered the Millrace & emergency measures are underway to have the line bypassed and repaired as soon as possible. The public should avoid recreational activities in the Millrace and Susquehanna River downstream from the pipe break. Updates will be provided by the City, they can be viewed at nyalert.gov or at 432-6450.

State Police at Sidney arrested 36 year old Brandi Brown of New Berlin for the felony DWI with a BAC result of .16% which is twice the legal limit. This arrest occurred after traffic stop for failing to keep right on State Route 8 in the Town of Guilford. Brown was arraigned at the Town of Guilford court and was released without bail required. Her next court date in the Town of Guilford is November 12, 2015.

Attorney General Eric Schneiderman issued a brochure offering tips to New Yorkers buying health insurance coverage for next year, entitled “Shopping For Health Insurance Coverage” Which is being released in advance of the New York State of Health Marketplace’s open enrollment period starting on Sunday. Schneiderman encourages consumers to take advantage of this open enrollment period to evaluate how their current health plan, whether it will change, or to consider what other options are available. Open enrollment through New York State of Health begins on November 1 through December 15th, for coverage effective January 1st.

Bainbridge area dentist Dr. Michelle Gifford is participating in a program that will protect area smiles from the cavity monster, and send smiles to troops overseas, following Halloween Trick or treating this weekend. Spokesperson Trish Hippenstiel explains:

(Trish Hippenstiel 10-30-15)

The candy collection will be at Dr Gifford's office at 10 Whitney Way in Bainbridge on Monday from 4:00 to 6:00 PM. More information is available at 967-8200.

The Afton Fire Department will host a Pancake Breakfast tomorrow morning at the Fire Station on Spring Street. The Breakfast will run from 7:00 AM until 11:00 AM.

A "Meet The Candidates" event will be held tonight in Guilford. Candidates for Town Supervisor & The Town Board will meet with interested town residents beginning at 6:30 PM.

Tioga Downs in Nichols received the news from the State Gaming Facility Location Board, to go ahead with plans to expend for a full-scale casino, The board denied their bid last year, and gave the Southern Tier Casino license to the Lago resort about 85 miles north of the region. Groundbreaking on the expanded casino facilities is expected to be announced shortly.

Governor Cuomo today announced that the State Liquor Authority has approved a host of advisories to help support the continued growth and development of New York’s beverage manufacturers, retailers and wholesalers. Governor Cuomo convened the state’s 3rd Beer, Wine, Spirits and Cider Summit last week, where industry participants raised specific legislative and regulatory issues facing the industry. Bainbridge Native & Binghamton Brewing Company Owner Kristen Lyons participated in the summit:

(Kristen Lyons 10-15-15)

The new State Liquor Authority advisories are posted at sla.ny.gov, more information about the state's growing beer, wine, spirits and cider industries is available at taste.ny.gov.

Area Republican Congressman Richard Hanna made national headlines today, as he joined Kevin McCarthy in suggesting that an investigation into the Benghazi incident may have been an effort to damage Democratic presidential hopeful Hillary Clinton. In a radio interview in Utica yesterday, Hanna implied that McCarthy was forced to withdraw his bid for House Speaker, by his Republican peers because of his statements regarding the political damage that they tried to inflict on Hillary Clinton & her presidential bid.

State DOT officials today announced the scheduled reopening of the Interstate 81 southbound ramp to State Route 17 westbound, a major milestone in the $135 million project to reconstruct the Prospect Mountain Interchange of State Route 17 and I-81 in the city of Binghamton and town of Dickinson, Broome County. The I-81 southbound ramp to Route 17 had been closed since December 2014. An estimated $164 million project to reconfigure Interchange 4 will begin next spring and is expected to be completed by the end of 2019.

The New York State unemployment rate has dropped to its lowest level in over seven years in September, according to statistics released today by the State Labor Department. The statewide unemployment rate fell from 5.2% to 5.1% in September, the lowest level since April 2008, the state also added 11,400 private sector jobs in September.

The State DEC today urged outdoor adventurers to suspend exploration of caves and mine sites that serve as homes for bat hibernations. Human disturbances are harmful to the state’s bat population since the arrival of the disease known as white-nose syndrome, which has killed more than 90% of hibernating bats in New York. Officials warned that if you encounter hibernating bats while underground, leave the area as quickly and quietly as possible. 2 species of bats are currently protected under federal and state endangered species law, including the northern long-eared bat, which was prevalent in New York, but the current population for this formerly common bat is approximately 1% of its previous size.

The Norwich Business Improvement District announced a full line up of events for the annual Pumpkin Festival on Friday, October 23rd through Saturday the 24th in Norwich. On Friday, from 5:30-7:00pm is the Giant Pumpkin Contest-Weigh In, On Saturday; events include a Pumpkin Bake-Off Contest, the YMCA Halloween Parade, Horse & Wagon Rides, and music with Kaitlyn Jackson and the Hometown Ban& The Beadle Brothers, followed by fireworks at the end of the evening.

Commerce Chenango will hold a “Meet the Candidates” session on October 27th. As part of the SFCU Business After Hours event. The session will be held at the SFCU Norwich branch, at County Road 32 & State Highway 23, from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM, among those confirmed to attend are State Senate candidates Fred Akshar & Barbara Fiala, among several local Norwich and Chenango County candidates. RSVP are requested by October 23rd at 334-1402 or johara@chenangony.org

The Otsego County Chamber of Commerce will hold their annual ceremony to honor the Small Business of the Year award & the Breakthrough Business of the Year today. The award winners will be honored at the Chamber’s Small Business Banquet at The Otesaga Hotel in Cooperstown.

On Saturday night, October 10th, Delaware County Sheriff’s Deputies arrested 23 year old Erick Daly of Queens with Criminal Possession of a Weapon and Unlawful Possession of Marihuana, following traffic stop on State Highway 17 in the Town of Hancock. Troopers initially stopped Daly for driving 83 mph in a 55mph zone, Deputies found Daly to be in possession of marijuana and an electronic stun gun. Daly was arraigned in the Hancock Town Court and was remanded to the Delaware County Correctional Facility in lieu of $500 bail.

FEMA is reminding policyholders who filed Hurricane Sandy flood insurance claims that the last day to request a review of their claim is today. If you feel your Hurricane Sandy flood insurance claim was underpaid, ask FEMA to review your claim by calling 866-337-4262 between 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM.

The Oneonta police department special response team is scheduled to work in cooperation with the Greater Plains Elementary School to conduct a school lockdown drill today. The event will provide the Oneonta SRT Team the opportunity to train in full gear, and it will give students & faculty a chance to become familiar with evacuation procedures in case of an emergency.

The Bainbridge-Guilford Central School will hold a Board of Education Meeting Today, in the District Conference Room at 6:30 PM.

Governor Cuomo announced that flags on state government buildings will be flown at half-staff today, in remembrance of the nearly 3,000 men, women and children who lost their lives in the September 11th 2001 terrorist attacks in New York City.

State Police arrested 62-year-old Jeffrey Kennedy of Eaton, for aggravated DWI with a B.A.C. result of .21% and other traffic violations. The arrest occurred after Kennedy was observed failing to keep right on State Route 12 in the Town of North Norwich. Kennedy was issued tickets returnable to the Town of North Norwich Court on September 23rd

Otsego County's annual Hazardous Waste Collection Event will be held today & tomorrow. The 1st event will be at the Unadilla Town Highway Building today & Waste from Otsego County small businesses is accepted and the 2nd event will be at the Meadows Office Building in Cooperstown on Saturday. No Pre-Registration is required, Saturday Participants are asked to arrive according to the first initial of your last name. More information is available at otsegocounty.com/depts/sw or by calling 547-4225.

The Chenango Arts Council, Norwich Business Improvement District, and the Norwich Rotary Club announced that the Chenango Public Arts Initiative begins with a Gallery opening reception today from 5:30 to 8:00 pm; it is free and open to the public. The Gallery will be open both days of Colorscape Weekend this Saturday and Sunday from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM and will stay on display until October 25. More information is available at 336-ARTS or email at: info@chenangoarts.org

A SUNY Delhi freshman from Wappingers Falls was found dead in a wooded area near the campus Tuesday. The unidentified student was found unresponsive by friends, he was pronounced dead at the scene by the Delaware County Medical Examiner's office. No foul Play is suspected; a memorial service for the student is planned on September 25th in Hopewell Junction.

State Police are investigating a burglary to a home on Grove Street in Windsor, which occurred sometime during the overnight between August 2nd & 3rd. Police said that burglars took a small black Sentry Model safe, which contained a large amount of US currency. Anyone with information about this crime is encouraged to contact SP Binghamton at 607-775-1241.

Thursday's Primary Day elections have been tabulated, In Delaware County; The Democratic Party Town of Middletown Supervisor Primary was won by Marjorie Miller. The Republican Party Primary had Delaware County Board of Supervisors Chairman Jim Eisel winning for the Harpersfield Town Supervisors position. In the Primary for Town of Walton Supervisor, Charles Gregory defeats Bruce Dolph. In Chenango County, District Attorney Joe McBride wins the Republican primary, in the city of Norwich; Christine Carnrike won The Republican Primary for Mayor over incumbent Joe Mauirano.

The Delaware County Industrial Development Agency recently completed a renovation project at the Sidney Industrial Park to ensure the continued growth of Gravity Ciders. The company outgrew their Walton facility; they were looking for a new production and warehousing facility to keep up with the demand of their Awestruck Premium Hard Ciders. The IDA invested $32,000, to keep Gravity Ciders in Delaware County; more information is available at dcecodev.com or 832-5123.

A 2nd rally against a proposed pipeline and compressor in Franklin is planned for Saturday, at 10:00 AM in front of 483 Van Tassel Road in Franklin. The rally is close to the location of the proposed compressor station.

The Bainbridge Rotary Club is sponsoring the Bill Denman Memorial River Ride tomorrow for interested cyclists. The first loop will begin at 9:00 AM and the 2nd at 11:00 AM both loops begin at General Clinton Park in Bainbridge.

The Delaware county department of corrections will hold the 5th Annual Andrew Brown Memorial Golf Tournament tomorrow, at the Hardwood Hills Golf Course in Masonville. Registration is at 7:30 AM, shotgun start is at 8:30 AM, and money raised will assist Delaware county residents being cared for by Catskill Hospice & Palliative care.

Governor Cuomo today announced that New York State Police arrested 769 individuals for DWI during the 20-day Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over national crackdown on impaired driving. State Police and local law enforcement agencies reported that of the 769 DWI arrests during the enforcement period, more than 219 occurred during Labor Day weekend alone. During the same period last year, 663 people were arrested for DWI. During the “Drive Sober” campaign, Troopers also issued 47,359 tickets, 18,660 for speeding, 1,613 for distracted driving, 2,522 for child restraint and seatbelt violations, and 556 for failing to “move over.” Troopers investigated a total of 2,973 crashes during the period, 857 people were injured, and 25 people were killed.

State agencies spent more than $337 million on overtime in the first six months of 2015, a jump of $21 million over the same period in 2014, State Comptroller Tom DiNapoli announced today. State employees worked more than 8.2 million overtime hours, up 5 percent over the same period in 2014. If overtime continues to rise at this pace, total costs for 2015 would exceed $700 million, an all-time record. The Department of Corrections and Community Supervision and the Division of State Police overtime costs for June and July 2015 jumped by more than $22 million over last year. But the mid-year totals reflect only a small portion of overtime costs incurred in the statewide search for the two escapees from the Clinton Correctional Facility.

In less than a month, New York’s affirmative consent law requiring uniform steps to combat sexual assault on college campuses takes effect. State officials have announced details of how they plan to implement the law, including a dozen State Police investigators assigned to a new victims’ unit to help investigate campus rape cases. Under Governor Cuomo’s “Enough is Enough” law, the rules at state institutions are extended to private schools. They include adopting student codes requiring affirmative consent before sex, and spelling out students’ rights to report sexual assault, dating or domestic violence and stalking to police.

Governor Cuomo announced that New Yorkers have scheduled more than 700,000 reservations to visit state-operated Department of Motor Vehicles offices since introducing the service on its website in 2013. Customers who make reservations online ahead of office visits, reserving a day and time convenient for them, are able to avoid wait times, which have decreased dramatically since the launch of DMV’s Customer Service Initiative in 2012.

State Police arrested 37-year-old Brett White of Binghamton for the felony of criminal contempt of court and the misdemeanor of endangering the welfare of a child. The arrest occurred after troopers responded to a Broome County 911 report of a dispute in the Town of Binghamton. An investigation determined that during a physical dispute White grabbed and threw his wife and his 7-year-old child to the floor, which violated a prior valid order of protection. White was arraigned in the Town of Windsor Court and released after he paid a $2,000.00 cash bail.

On Tuesday, Delaware County Sheriff's Deputies arrested a Lakewood, Pennsylvania man on a felony assault charge following a domestic incident in the Town of Walton. 44 year old Joshua Loucks was charged with 2nd degree Assault and leaving the scene of a personal injury motor vehicle accident, for allegedly using a motor vehicle to cause physical injury to a 42 year old female by intentionally striking her with it, on State Highway 206 in the Town of Walton and then leaving the scene of the incident. The victim was transported to Delaware Valley Hospital where she was treated and released. Loucks surrendered to Deputies in Hancock and was arraigned in the Town of Delhi Court where he was released upon posting $1000 cash bail pending further court action.

State Police arrested 37-year-old Richard Bell of Bainbridge for assault, criminal trespass & harassment after a Delaware County 911 report of a dispute at a home on Blueberry Road in the Town of Masonville. Troopers determined that during a verbal dispute outside the victim’s home, Bell followed the man as he fled inside and allegedly struck him causing an injury. Bell was arraigned at Town of Tompkins Court, he was released without bail, & he will appear in Town of Masonville Court on September 15th.

The New York State Department of Health reminds parents that the fall season is prime time for head lice as children head back to school. Infestations are especially common in school, where children spend time in close quarters. When kids share objects like headgear, hats and hairbrushes, the lice can spread easily. An estimated 6 to 12 million children are infected each year. Information on what to do if your children have head lice is available at health.ny.gov/diseases.

The Binghamton Mets secured their playoff spot with the Divisional Round Best of 5 series beginning tonight at NYSEG Stadium at 6:35 pm; game 2 will be Thursday night at 6:35 pm with Post game Fireworks scheduled. If the B-Mets advance, the Championship Round Best of 5 series would begin on Tuesday, September 15th at 6:35 pm and continue on Wednesday, September 16th at 6:35 pm at NYSEG Stadium. More information is available at BMETS.com

The Delhi Police department is investigating the circumstances after 2 people were found dead of suspected drug overdoses in an apartment on Main Street. 34-year-old Christopher Bailey and 25-year-old Krista Hess were found dead in Bailey’s apartment Wednesday night by a co-tenant, police found evidence of intravenous drug use, Police Investigators are working with the Delaware County Medical Examiner’s Office to determine the cause of the deaths.

Governor Cuomo announced that temporary lane closures associated with road and bridge construction projects on New York State highways will be lifted today through 6:00 AM Tuesday, in order to accommodate travelers during the Labor Day holiday weekend. Some work may continue behind permanent concrete barriers or for emergency repairs. This weekend is expected to have the highest travel volume since 2008.

Bainbridge Days will be held tomorrow around the village of Bainbridge, Chamber president John Payne explains:

(John Payne 9-4-15)

Bainbridge days is sponsored by the Bainbridge Chamber of Commerce.

State and local police departments in New York are cracking down on impaired drivers for the Labor Day weekend. "Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over" is part of a national effort to reduce accidents caused by drivers under the influence of alcohol or drugs. The campaign runs through the September 7th Labor Day holiday. 364 people were killed in alcohol-related crashes in 2013, according to Governor Andrew Cuomo's Traffic Safety Committee 2014 annual report.

Delaware County Sheriff's Deputies arrested 35 year old Shane Bellows of Downsville for Reckless Driving, Criminal Mischief, Leaving the Scene of a Property Damage Accident and Falsely Reporting an Incident following an August 15th property damage accident in the in the Town of Walton. Bellows is accused driving on State Highway 10 in a reckless manner when he became involved in a head-on collision & fled the scene & then falsely reported that his vehicle was stolen. No injuries were sustained as a result of the accident, he will appear in the Town of Walton Court at a later date. 70-year-old Joseph Bellows of Downsville was also arrested for Falsely Reporting an Incident for reporting the theft of his son’s truck, he was released to appear in the Town of Walton Court at a later date to answer that charge.

The city of Oneonta department of public service will be flushing water mains on the low service next Monday through Friday during the overnight hours. Areas that will be affected by flushing include Min Street from Fox Hospital to Fairview Street, everything between Walnut & Market streets, Chestnut Street from Main to West Street, as well as side streets in the vicinity of the main roads. Changes in water color & pressure are expected; those with questions can call 432-2100.

A fundraiser for Ken Long of Binghamton, who has stage 4 brain cancer, has been scheduled to be held in Bainbridge later this month. Cancer survivor & Bainbridge native Heather Bucalos will have an area set up at “Bainbridge Days” tomorrow to help raise funds for Long, who supported her during her recent battle against cancer:

(Heather Bucalos 9-4-15)

Bucalos said that she would be set up near Bob’s Diner & “Snips & Snails Consignment Shop” Saturday with a variety of fundraising items, she is also organizing a Glow Run September 26th from 7:00 to 9:00 PM at General Clinton Park.

The final points races of the season will be tonight at I-88 Speedway in Afton, with some of the classes having the champoinship up for grabs. Spokesperson Denise Paige explains:
(Denise Paige 9-4-15)

Paige also said that special races will be held September 25th & 26th & another race night will be held in October this year at I-88 Speedway.

Governor Cuomo stated this week that he recognizes that the current Common Core program in New York State is not working and that changes to the program are needed in short order. Cuomo said in a written statement that a comprehensive review of the implementation, curriculum, and tests need to be re-examined by a commission made up of state Education Commissioner Mary Ellen Elia, teachers, parents, experts and state lawmakers to make recommendations before he delivers his State of the State address in January. Cuomo said that he does believe in having educational standards for New York's students, and that he agrees with the goals of Common Core.

The Greene Police Department & the Chenango County Sheriff's Department are currently investigating an unattended death on Iona Lane, south of Town of Greene just off county road 32. the unidentified victim is a male subject mid-fifties, more information will be relased pending a Medical Examiners investigation, processing of the scene and notification of the next of kin.

Governor Cuomo announced that New York State has been awarded a $3.75 million grant, over five years, from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention to enhance the treatment and prevention of strokes, which is the 4th leading cause of death in New York, accounting for more than 6,000 deaths annually. The grant will allow the State Department of Health to expand its existing New York Coverdell program, to improve in-hospital care for acute stroke, as well as improve programs for education, emergency medical services & addressing stroke risk factors such as high blood pressure, tobacco use, high cholesterol and poor medication adherence.

The Kick off meeting for the 2016 General Clinton Canoe Regatta will be held today at the Highway 7 Bar & Grill on Route 7 in Bainbridge at 7:00 PM. The meeting is a joint meeting of the Regular & the Race Committees, they will discuss Meeting dates & times & ideas for next year's Regatta.

The 19th annual Delaware County Clean Sweep chemical disposal days are scheduled for September. County Solid Waste coordinator Sue McIntyre told WCDO News that online registration have been going on for a couple of weeks, and telephone registration begins today:

(Sue McIntyre 9-1-15)

Businesses & farms will drop off their items at their designated times on Friday September 18th, households on Saturday September 19th

33 year old Wayne Spratley of Greene, has been indicted for 1st & 2nd degree attempted murder, 1st degree assault, & criminal use of a firearm; in connection with the July 19th shooting of a black man in a City of Norwich parking lot. Many of the charges in the indictment are also characterized as hate crimes. Spratley is accused of shooting the man & using racial slurs against him during the attack. The unidentified victim required surgery for gunshot wounds to the abdomen, he has since been released & has left the area. Spratley will be arraigned in Chenango County Court shortly on the new charges in the indictment

State Police arrested 41-year-old Barry Wenger of Endwell Monday, for 1st degree Burglary & Criminal Possession of a Weapon. Wenger is accused of entering a residence in the Town of Union & assaulting the occupant, causing injury. Wenger was arraigned & was remanded to the Broome County Jail without bail. The Investigation is continuing.

Governor Cuomo announced that he would lead a delegation to Puerto Rico to meet with local officials and discuss the Puerto Rican governments' ongoing healthcare crisis and economic challenges as well as the need for Washington to act. The Governor is leading the delegation at the invitation of Puerto Rico’s Governor, Alejandro Garcia Padilla. The group will depart on September 7th & return on September 8th.

State Police urge everyone to support the AAA’s annual “School’s Open—Drive Carefully” campaign to help preserve the safety of children traveling to and from school. The campaign alerts motorists to the special risks to school age children from motor vehicle crashes, which is the leading cause of death for children from 5 to 14 years old. The campaign begins September 2, 2015 and runs through October 14.

Governor Cuomo today announced that emergency regulations have been adopted by the State Department of Health to prevent the spread of Legionella bacteria and protect New Yorkers from future outbreaks of Legionnaires’ disease. The regulations take effect immediately. The Governor announced that the Department of Health has launched a general tip line; 1-888-769-7243, to respond to questions or inquiries regarding the regulations from members of the public, as well as engineers, technologists and technicians. These emergency regulations are in effect for 90 days, at which point they will be adopted into permanent regulations, the regulations can be amended before they become permanent.

Governor Cuomo today announced the creation of “NY Responds” to strengthen the State’s emergency preparedness. Every county will have access to universal emergency management software, at no cost to localities, to enable both local governments and state agencies to submit and share vital disaster-related information, from incident reports and resource requests to real-time tracking of assets and weather conditions. The state is supplementing its stockpile of emergency response resources with an additional $50 million worth of equipment in advance of the winter storm season.

Governor Cuomo signed legislation to protect children across New York State from exposure to second-hand smoke. The bill prohibits individuals from smoking near schools while after-school programs are in operation. This bill expands the ban on smoking within 100 feet of the entrances, exits or outdoor areas of public and private schools to prohibit smoking during after-school programs. The ban would be in effect only during those hours in which the after-school programs are in session. Residences or residential property within the 100 foot perimeter would be excluded from the new ban.

On Saturday, Delaware County Sheriff’s Deputies arrested 41 year old Christopher Ross of Franklin, for Driving While Intoxicated, operating an ATV on a public roadway, operating without a helmet, and speed not reasonable and imprudent. This arrest was a result of a motor vehicle accident on Clark Road in the Town of Masonville. Ross was later released on tickets returnable in the Masonville Town Court at a later date.

Tickets are now on sale for the musical comedy "42nd STREET" at the Forum Theatre Tuesday, October 6 and Wednesday, October 7. Tina Niles of NAC Entertainment comments:

(Tina Niles 8-18-15)

Tickets for 42nd Street are on sale at the Arena Box Office and Ticketmaster. Season Tickets are still on sale at BroadwayinBinghamton.com or by calling The Broadway Theatre League at 772-1391.

The Bainbridge-Guilford Central School will hold a SPECIAL Board of Education Meeting today in the District Conference Room at 5:30 PM. It is anticipated that the Board will move into Executive Session to discuss a particular personnel issue.

Sidney Village Superintendent of Public Works Mike Mercurio announced today that work would begin at 8:30 tomorrow morning on the traffic light at the intersection of Main & River Street in downtown Sidney. Mercurio told WCDO News that the 1962 state installed light stopped working on March 11th, and parts were no longer available.

The Norwich Fire Department reported that Route 12 just south of the City was completely shut down due to a hazard chemical spill earlier this afternoon. The highway had to be closed for several hours for the investigation & clean up; Businesses in area of Price Chopper Plaza have not been accessible since the spill. More details will be released as soon as possible.

Wednesday is Day 3 of the Delaware County Fair; it will be Kids Day according to Fair Spokesman John Jackson:

(John Jackson Wednesday)

The Fair runs through Saturday night at the Fairgrounds in Walton, concluding with the country music concert headlined by Parmalee & Jana Kramer. Daily Schedules are available at DelawareCountyFair.org.

U.S. Senator Charles Schumer has been allotted a single ticket to the Joint Meeting of Congress with Pope Francis on September 24th in Washington, DC. Those interested must sign up by August 26th and enter the raffle for the chance to win either a pair of tickets to see the Pope in the Audience outside the Capitol or the single ticket to hear him speak before Congress. 1 Joint Session ticket winner and 100 winners of a pair of tickets to the Papal Audience will be notified on August 27th.

State Police in Deposit arrested 20-year-old Shawn Stamper of Johnson City, for Driving While Intoxicated, following a report of an accident with injuries on Chestnut Street in the Town of Windsor. Stamper was charged with DWI after he crashed into a guide rail and overturned, he was transported to Wilson Hospital with lacerations to his face, he was issued tickets for Town of Windsor Court on August 24th.

United Way of Delaware and Otsego Counties is seeking donations of kid friendly foods and children’s hygiene items for its 2015 Food and Hygiene Supply Drive. Susan Kurkowski of the United Way told WCDO News what items can be donated:

(Susan Kurkowski 8-19-15)

The drive will begin tomorrow and run through September 14th, when the United Way officially kicks-off their 2015 Campaign. All donations will be given to backpack programs and food pantries in both Delaware and Otsego Counties. United Way will be partnering with Opportunities for Otsego and Delaware Opportunities to get the supplies delivered. More information is available at 432-8006.

During yesterday's National baseball hall of Fame induction ceremonies, inductees John Smoltz & Randy Johnson wanted to include messages or importance into their induction acceptance speeches. Smoltz if the first member of the Hall of Fame that went through the "Tommy John" Surgery, that is now affecting about 40% of professional pitchers, affecting younger & younger pitchers, he warned parents of this growing amount of surgeries on y0oung arms:

(John Smoltz Message)

Randy Johnson acknowledged working with the USO & Wounded Warrior Project since retirement from baseball, and he had one special poignant message to deliver at the end of his speech:

(Randy Johnson Message)

Smoltz & Johnson were inducted along with Pedro Martinez and Craig Biggio into the Baseball Hall of Fame at the Clark Sports Center in Cooperstown yesterday.

This Year's Rock in the Park center at General Clinton Park in Bainbridge raised more than expected for the Chenango County SPCA. Rock In the Park Organizer Jason Hall comments:

(Jason Hall 7-27-15)

Hall said that they will likely raise money for the Chenango SPCA again next year; they have previously raised money for Toys for Tots.

Delaware County Sheriff's Deputies arrested 53-year-old Sonia Ramirez of the Bronx & Ottawa Illinois following a traffic stop in the Town of Hancock early Saturday morning. A Deputy stopped the Ramirez vehicle for speeding, an odor of marihuana emanated from the vehicle. Ramirez was charged with Speeding, Aggravated Unlicensed Operation of a Motor Vehicle, and 2 counts of Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance, Unlawful Possession of Marihuana and Throwing Refuse on the Highway. Searches led to the seizure of ½ ounce of cocaine, a quantity of marihuana, & 499 glassine envelopes containing heroin. Ramirez was arraigned & was ordered held on $75,000 cash bail or $150,000 bail bond pending a felony hearing scheduled for Wednesday. Deputies estimate the seized cocaine; heroin and marihuana destined for the streets of the Village of Sidney had a street value in excess of $10,000.

State Police arrested 38-year-old Jeremy Astalos of Afton for 3rd degree Assault, Endangering the Welfare of a Child and Criminal Mischief. Troopers responded to a Chenango County 911 report of a domestic dispute on Hillside Drive in Afton. Astalos is accused of punching his wife in the face and smashing her cell phone so she could not call for help, the alleged incidents occurred in front of a child. Astalos was arraigned in the Town of Afton Court and remanded to the Chenango County Jail in lieu of $1,000 cash bail or $2,000 property bond pending court action today. An order of protection was placed against Astalos by the court.

Governor Cuomo signed two pieces of legislation that strengthen the State’s support of people with disabilities. The Governor also signed a proclamation, marking the 25th anniversary of the historic Americans with Disabilities Act. One law codifies protections for people with disabilities who are refused access to places of public accommodation, such as hotels, restaurants, retail stores, recreation or entertainment venues and hospitals. The 2nd law directs the New York State Office for People with Developmental Disabilities to examine state laws and regulations pertaining to military family members and suggest any necessary improvements to better serve the families of people with developmental disabilities.

The New York State Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance today announced that more than $7 million has been awarded to help provide legal assistance to people who have been denied federal disability benefits. Locally, the Delaware County Department of Social Services received $16,941

The City of Oneonta held a public hearing this afternoon on a moratorium for accepting applications for permits for the issuance of site plan reviews or variances fro billboards. The facilities-technology-operations-community improvement committee also held their regular meeting today, and the zoning & housing board of appeals will hold their next meeting tonight at 7:00 PM at City Hall.

Fire investigators have determined that it was a lightning strike that hit the Sidney Federal Credit Union Main branch in Sidney. Vice President of Marketing Keith May told WCDO News that he came to work there at about 6:00 This morning, & the Sidney Fire Department was summoned about an hour later:

(Keith May 7-20-15)

May said that the Sidney branch had only minimal damage, teh clean up is underway & the State of the art insulation in the new building smoldered for several hours since the lightning strike at about 10:00 Sunday night, traditional insulation would have likely burst into flames quicker.

A State Department of Corrections employee has been charged with 2nd degree attempted murder in Norwich. Norwich Police arrested 33-year-old Wayne Spratley Sunday morning, following a call about a person displaying a weapon in the area of a North Broad Street business. A Norwich Police Officer responded and heard gunshots near Lackawanna Avenue, where the officer found the victim who appeared to be shot in the stomach, the victim was taken to University Hospital in Syracuse & was listed in critical condition. Spratley was arraigned in Chenango County Court and was remanded to the Chenango County Correctional Facility on $50,000 bail, additional charges against Spratley are pending & the investigation is ongoing. Anyone with information is asked to call the Norwich Police at 334-1212, or the Norwich Police Department’s TIPS Line at336-8477, or at npdtips.com.

Delaware County Sheriff's Deputies arrested and charged a Delhi man with introducing dangerous prison contraband into the facility. On Saturday night Delaware County Correctional Facility intake officers conducting a search of a new inmate found Brayan Thompson of Delhi was in possession of a concealed belt buckle knife while being booked into the jail, on an unrelated Burglary charge, he was subsequently charged with Promoting Prison Contraband. Thompson was arraigned on the new charge, & was remanded to the Delaware County Correctional Facility on $2000 cash bail; he remains incarcerated pending future court appearances.

On Friday, July 17th, Delaware County Sheriff’s Deputies arrested 48 year old Wade Egan of Lake Grove New York for 1 count of Criminal Possession of a Weapon & 2 counts of Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance, failure to Keep Right, Aggravated Driving While Intoxicated, Failure to Obey a Police Officer, and several violations. The arrests were made as a result of a pursuit and subsequent traffic stop on State Highway 10 in the Town of Walton. Egan was arraigned in the Town of Walton Court and was released to reappear at a later date.

The Town of Unadilla crews are repaving Butternut Road this week. Repaving will be between 7:00 AM & 4:30 PM each day and the road will be closed at those times.

The next 4-chamber mixer will be held today, sponsored by the Bainbridge Chamber of Commerce. At the 6:00 PM at the Sundown Golf club on Hay Path Lane in Guilford. All members of the Sidney, Unadilla, and Afton & Bainbridge chambers are encouraged to attend.

The Bainbridge-Guilford Central School will hold a SPECIAL Board of Education Meeting today in the Guilford Cafeteria at 6:30 PM. Business Office staffing and Administrative staffing will be discussed.

Sidney drug bust - On Thursday afternoon, after a 5-month investigation by Delaware County Sheriff's Office & Sidney Police, 4 area residents were arrested and charged as felony-level drug dealers. Arrested on Sealed Grand Jury Indictment Warrants issued were 37 year old Lewis “Sonny” Wolcott, Jr., of Sidney on 3 counts of Criminal Sale of a Controlled Substance, for allegedly selling cocaine in Sidney late last year. Also arrested, 35 year old Stacey D. Sullivan, Jr., of Masonville, for Criminal Sale of a Controlled Substance & Criminal Sale of a Controlled Substance in or near School Grounds, for allegedly selling Heroin in Sidney, 34 year old Douglas Wilkinson of Sidney & Smyrna was charged with several counts of Criminal Sale of a Controlled Substance, for allegedly selling narcotics in Sidney. 34-year-old Amanda Caffery of Sidney was charged with Criminal Sale of a Controlled Substance for allegedly Hydrocodone in Sidney, all 4 were arraigned on the Sealed Indictments in Delaware County Court this afternoon and were remanded to the Delaware County without bail.

Delaware County Sheriffs Department arrested 19-year-old Christopher Whitely, Jr., of Stamford, on a Sealed Grand Jury Indictment Warrant charging him with three counts of Criminal Sale of a Controlled Substance, for allegedly selling cocaine in Stamford last year. Whitely was additional charged with Unlawful Possession of Marihuana, which he had in a backpack, upon arrest, he was arraigned on the Sealed Indictment in Delaware County Court on Thursday afternoon and was remanded to the Delaware County Jail on $10,000 cash bail.

State Police at Sidney arrested 24-year-old Brandon Burns of Sidney and 22-year-old Taylor Nelson of Afton for 2nd degree Burglary. Troopers responded to a Chenango County 911 report of a burglary to a residence on County Route 39 in the Town of Bainbridge, the investigation determined that Burns had entered his grandmother’s home with Nelson & without permission and stole two televisions. Both men were arrested and arraigned at the Bainbridge Town Court. Burns and Nelson were remanded to the Chenango County Jail in lieu of $10,000.00 cash bail and $20,000.00 property bond.

Delaware County Sheriff’s Deputies responded to the intersection of State Highway 10 and Delaware County Highway 2 in the Town of Hamden for a report of a one-car motor vehicle accident early Thursday morning. Deputies arrested 46-year-old Joel Ortega of El Paso, Texas for Driving While Intoxicated, aggravated DWI, Use of a portable electronic device while operating a motor vehicle, and speed not reasonable and prudent. Ortega is to appear in the Town of Hamden Court on July 20th to answer to the charges.

State Police at Binghamton arrested 27-year-old Amie Bowman of Windsor for Reckless Endangerment. The arrest occurred after a Trooper responded to a Broome County 911 report of a man jumping from a moving vehicle in the Price Shopper parking lot in the Town of Chenango, after his girlfriend drove recklessly after a dispute and would not stop and let him out. Bowman allegedly passed several vehicles recklessly at a high rate of speed and refused to stop on state route 12. Bowman was arraigned in the Town of Chenango Court and remanded to the Broome County Jail with no bail set.

The Sidney Central School District announced today that they are not soliciting funds for any informational folders/calendars or other items from an outside organization. Sidney School District Officials advise that you do not give money or personal banking information to any individual without checking with the school district first.

The 53rd General Clinton Canoe Regatta featured 4 days of canoe racing, over the Memorial Day weekend, over 1000 paddlers from North America, competed including yesterday’s 70-mile endurance races, from Cooperstown to Bainbridge. Andy Triebold from Michigan & Steve Lajoie from Quebec won the pr race for the 7th time together, Lajoie explained what it’s like paddling with all the amateur teams on the river:

(Steve Lajoie)

In the new 4-person division, the local Otego Oneonta team, of Bob Wisse, Cathy Grimes, Jeff Shultis & Larry Harrison, finished 3rd, just 3 minutes behind the 2nd place team. Harrison talked about their race:

(Larry Harrison 2015)

The 53rd regatta also featured rides, games, entertainment, music & fireworks throughout the weekend.
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
6 more people were inducted into the General Clinton Canoe Regatta Hall of fame this year, including paddlers Jan Whitaker, Calvin Hassel, Mike Packard, & Rodney Robinson & original Clinton organizers Dick Sloane & Don Loudon. Local Paddler Mike Packard of Otego commented after the ceremony:

(Mike Packard 5-26-15)

Paddler Rodney Robinson of Otego also commented after the ceremony:

(Rodney Robinson 5-26-15)

Special commendations were also given by the regatta Hall Of Fame Committee to the Benson Family for their decades of volunteering, John & Shirley Girton for handling race entries & results, and to WCDO for broadcasting the Regatta for 30 years.

State Police responded to a Delaware County 911 report of a fatal ATV accident off of Apex Road in the Town of Tompkins. Troopers observed 36 year old Keith Stratton of Bellmore, New York deceased in a shallow creek by an overturned ATV. Troopers reported thar he had been at a family party at a home on Apex Road when he decided to take a ride on an ATV, without a helmet. Troopers beleive that he failed to make a right turn and overturned in a nearby creek & was killed on impact. Alcohol was a factor in the accident, he was pronoucned deceased at the scene.

Governor Cuomo today announced that law enforcement agencies in 17 counties participating in the state’s Gun Involved Violence Elimination initiative would receive $13.3 million to target gun violence and save lives. The initiative requires the use of proven strategies to reduce shootings and firearm-related homicides in communities served by 20 police departments in those counties. Locally, The Binghamton Police Department and Broome County District Attorney’s Office and Sheriff’s Office will share $393,944.

State Police arrested 27 year old Jonathan Robinson of Oneonta for Resisting Arrest, 2 counts of Criminal Mischief & 3 counts of Harassment. The arrest resulted from a complaint of someone damaging a vehicle and making threats at a residence on County Highway 11 in the Town of Laurens. Robinson is accused of damaging 2 vehicles, threatening people from outside & physically resisting arrest. Robinson was arraigned in the Town of Laurens Court and remanded to the Otsego County Jail on $200 cash bail pending future court action.

The Village of Sidney announced that tonight's board meeting has been cancelled, the meeting has been rescheduled for june 1st at 7:00 PM in the board room at the Sidney Civic Center.

The City of Oneonta will be sweeping all 3 levels of the municipal parking garage, tonight at 10:00 PM through tomorrow morning at 11:00 AM. The garage will be closed on all levels during that time; lots at Dietz Street, Wall Street and the Westcott lot will all be open. The Clarion Hotel lot will be open for public use during that time; it can be accessed from south main street or Market Street. More information is available at 432-6465.

Voters in New York State approved of all area school budgets yesterday, with the exception of the Walton district. Building projects were approved in Sidney & Unadilla Valley, Walton voters rejected a building project proposal by a better than 3 to 1 margin. Kjersti Van Slyke-Briggs, Marissa Orezzoli, Nancy Parsons & Thomas Hoskins won school board seats in Sidney. School Board seats in the Bainbridge Guilford district were Tina Ammon, Keith Hanvey & Rebecca Sullivan, in the Norwich district, Jennifer Collins, Robert Smith & Joseph Stagliano in Franklin Jamie Archibald was elected to the school Board.

The Chenango county sheriff’s office arrested 24-year-old Brooke Snyder of Afton on a charge of 2nd degree burglary. Snyder & co-defendants are accused of unlawfully entering a Village of Afton residence and stealing an unspecified item, she was arraigned in the Town of Afton Court and was remanded to the Chenango County Jail on $5,000 cash; she will reappear in the Town of Afton Court at a later date.

State Police at Troop C in Sidney are investigating an accident on Interstate 88 between Sidney and in Unadilla at about 6:30 this morning. The highway is open in both directions; more details are expected to be released shortly.

The Chenango county sheriffs department arrested 18-year-old James Shurock of Sherburne on 11 counts of Petty Larceny. Shurock is accused of stealing 109 library books from the Sherburne-Earlville High School Library, he was released on an appearance ticket to the Village of Sherburne Court at a later date.

The Oneonta department of public Service announced that they plan to co0nnect the new Burnside Avenue water main to the existing water main On River street. The work will begin at 10:00 PM tonight, and crews will be working throughout the night. River Street will be closed to traffic between Wilcox & Mitchell; side streets may be used as detours. Officials said that about 40 customers would be without water, the trench across the street would be filled in & repaved tomorrow morning. Those with questions can call 432-6465.

The State Senate passed legislation that would make the state's property tax cap permanent. The legislation passed 4 years ago by Governor Cuomo & the legislature made the tax cap as only a temporary measure to cuts costs when the state was facing billions of dollars in deficits when Cuomo took office.

The B-G Central School District is seeking 2 Community members interested in serving on a Varsity Football Coach Selection Committee. The first meeting will be held tonight at 6:00 PM in the District Conference Room. Candidates will be interviewed next week, with the appointment by the BG School Board expected at their June 18th meeting. Interested community members should contact the District Office at 967-6321.

Rides, games & giveaways will all be part of the activities at General Clinton Park at this year's canoe regatta. Regatta Chairman John Harmon explains:

(Harmon 5-20-15)

Harmon said that the General Clinton Canoe regatta brings thousands to the region from Cooperstown to Bainbridge each year over the Memorial Day weekend.

Governor Cuomo issued an update on this weekend’s transformer fire at Indian Point Nuclear Power Plant in Westchester, as the DEC, State Police & US Coast Guard continuing working at the scene. The DEC and Coast Guard, continue to clean up oil spills, as they evaluate the environmental damage, the DEC anticipates having an estimate of the amount oil recovered from the Hudson River by the end of the week. Some oil burned during the transformer fire or dispersed before containment was in place in the river.

Delaware County Sheriff's Deputies investigated a two-car accident Saturday on County Highway 21 in the Town of Walton. 48-year-old Kathryn Smith of Franklin was northbound on County Highway 21 when she was side-swiped by a vehicle being driven by 51 year old William Davis of Franklin. Deputies charged Davis with Failure to Keep Right, DWI, & Refusal to Take a Breath Test. Davis was arraigned in the Town of Hamden Court and was remanded to the Delaware County Jail on $500 cash bail pending an appearance in the Walton Town Court on May 27th.

Delaware County Sheriff's Deputies arrested and charged a Sidney Center man with being a Fugitive from Justice from the State of New Jersey on Monday. Deputies arrested 33 year old Dennis Lafferty Jr., on a Warrant and Bail Forfeiture issued by a New Jersey Superior Court in March 2014. Lafferty was originally charged in New Jersey with Theft, Lafferty, was already incarcerated in the Delaware County Jail on an unrelated charge, he is scheduled to be arraigned in the Town of Delhi Court This morning as a Fugitive from Justice.

The Town of Unadilla will have rolling road closures beginning today at 7:00 AM, crews will be putting down oil & stone on Sheep Pen Road, Kilkenny Road & Rod & Gun Club Road.

The Chenango county Health Department will hold the next free rabies clinic in Bainbridge today. The clinic will be held from 5:30 to 6:30 at the Bainbridge village garage at 1 River Street, for dogs, cats & domesticated ferrets. More information is available at 337-1673 or co.Chenango.ny.us.

Police in New Mexico said Monday evening that mixed martial arts fighter & Endicott New York native Jon "Bones" Jones is in custody, in connections with a hit & run accident Sunday morning. Albuquerque Police Department reported that Jones was booked without incident for felony leaving the scene of an accident, the driver of the other vehicle was a pregnant woman in her 20's who suffered broken bones, she was taken to a nearby hospital for treatment and evaluation. Jones faces court action shortly.

Delaware County Sheriff’s Deputies investigated a 1-car property damage accident Sunday afternoon on State Highway 10 in the Town of Delhi. Deputies arrested 42-year-old Daniel Margiotta of Hamden, with DWI, Unlawful Possession of Marihuana, failure to keep right, moving from lane unsafely, speed not reasonable and prudent and having an open alcoholic container in the vehicle. Margiotta was issued tickets returnable to the Town of Delhi Court on May 26th, 2015, Additional charges are pending.

The Bainbridge-Guilford Central School will hold a Board of Education Meeting on Tuesday, April 28, 2015 in the District Conference Room at 5:30 PM. The Board anticipates moving into executive session at that time. The business portion of the meeting will start at 7:00 PM.

Governor Cuomo was in Buffalo this morning promoting plans to raise the minimum wage in the state:

(Cuomo 3-3-15)

Cuomo's plan is to raise the minimum wage to $10.50 an hour for the majority of the state & $11.50 an hour for New York City.

The Cash Coalition & the United Way of Delaware & Otsego Counties announced that there are free tax preparation services available this tax season for eligible families. United Way Spokesperson Cheri Albrecht explains:

(Cherri Albrecht 3-3-15)

Albrecht said that the appointments for the Delhi & Oneonta locations could be made through Catholic Charities at 432-0061.

Agriculture contributed $37.6 billion to New York's economy in 2012, an increase of more than 22% from 2007, according to a report released today by State Comptroller Tom DiNapoli. The state ranks in the top 10 nationwide for milk and other dairy production, as well as wine, apples, maple syrup and other products. Milk is the state's largest commodity, with $2.4 billion in sales, followed by grains, peas and beans at $856 million, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture's 2012 census. New York also ranked first nationwide in the production of yogurt, cottage cheese and sour cream, and was the second-largest wine producer in 2013, with 34 million gallons. The state also ranked second nationally in maple syrup production.

State Police from Sidney arrested 29-year-old Bradley Brundege of Walton for the felony of Aggravated DWI with a reportable B.A.C. result of .18%. Troopers observed Brundege drive into a rest area and stop off of County Route 23 in Sidney, Troopers determined that Brundege was driving while intoxicated, the charge became a felony due to a prior DWI conviction. Brundege was arraigned in the Town of Sidney Court and remanded to the Delaware County Jail in lieu of a $1,000 cash bail.

The Delaware County District Attorney’s Investigators arrested 27-Year-Old Jessica Rodriguez of Sidney, for Offering a False Instrument for Filing, Welfare Fraud & Criminal Possession of a Forged Instrument. Rodriguez is accused of receiving $754 in Public Assistance Benefits to which she was not entitled. Rodriguez pleaded guilty to Welfare Fraud in the 5th degree, was fined $250.00 and ordered to pay restitution.

The 53rd General Clinton canoe regatta will be held memorial day weekend & the regatta committee will meet tonight, at 7:00 PM at the Highway & Bar & Grill on Route 7 in Bainbridge. All paddlers & area residents are invited to attend & participate.

Tickets for the 2015 Hall of Fame Classic on Memorial Day Weekend are on sale today, Hall of Fame members Rollie Fingers, Tom Glavine, Phil Niekro and Ozzie Smith as well as recently retired players representing all 30 major league teams will play the 7 inning legends game. this year's contest will be played on Saturday, May 23 at Cooperstown’s Doubleday Field, Tickets are on sale at 1-877-726-9028 or at baseballhall.org.