WCDO Radio News

A winter storm could leave some wintery precipitation on the region starting later today & overnight. Area Meteorologist Rich Townsend explains:

(Rich Townsend 11-15-18)

The National Weather service has a Winter Storm Warning Weather Advisory in effect until 10:00 AM Friday.

The Otsego County Sheriff’s Office arrested 33-year-old James Carey Jr. of Oneonta for disseminating indecent material to minors and endangering the welfare of a child. Carey is accused sending and receiving nude photographs” between himself and a 12-year-old girl, he was sent to the Otsego County Correctional Facility and is scheduled to appear in Town of Otsego Court on November 28.

Governor Cuomo today announced $22.9 million in grants to support 11 critical municipal water infrastructure projects in the Southern Tier. This funding represents $46.6 million in taxpayer savings and supports the creation of more than 3,200 jobs. These grants are funded through the state's highly successful Water Infrastructure Improvement Act program. The Village of Hancock will get a grant for 2.4 Million dollars toward their $4 Million dollar drinking water project.

2 people were arrested after an alleged domestic dispute last month where a shotgun was displayed. Troopers responded to a residence on Hotchkiss Hill Road in Greene where 32 year old Brian Brick of Greene allegedly waved a shotgun during a dispute, he left in a truck with 37 year old Michael Halstead of Scranton, Pennsylvania. Halstead is accused of accepting the shotgun from Brick; he cannot legally possess weapons as a convicted felon. Halstead was charged with Criminal Possession of a Weapon; he was arraigned in the village of Greene Court and remanded to the Chenango County Jail on $5,000 cash bail or $10,000 bail bond. Brick turned himself in to State Police last week, he was charged with Criminal Possession of a Weapon & Menacing, and he was arraigned and remanded to the Chenango County Jail on $10,000 cash bail or $15,000 bail bond.

State Police arrested 34 year old Donald Shurock of Oxford for Resisting Arrest and 2 counts of Criminal Mischief, Troopers were dispatched to a domestic dispute on Lucas Lane in the town of Oxford, where Shurock damaged property and also took the victim’s phone while the victim attempted to call for help the previous day. After an investigation, Shurock Jr. was arrested. He was arraigned in the town of Oxford Court where he was remanded to the Chenango County Jail on $2,500 cash bail or $10,000 bail bond. An order of protection was issued by the judge.

State Police arrested 53 year old Michael Kane of Bainbridge for DWI, after a trooper monitoring traffic on State Highway 7 in the town of Unadilla observed the vehicle that Kane was operating to have an equipment violation. After a traffic stop was initiated, Kane was arrested and released on appearance tickets returnable to the town of Unadilla Court on November 19th.

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

State Police arrested 43 year old Arzou Hami of Coventry for Menacing a Police Officer, Menacing, Criminal Possession of a Weapon and Resisting Arrest. A trooper was dispatched to a residence on State Route 235 in the town of Coventry that Hami was allegedly breaking property, allegedly threatened the victim with a Barbecue skewer. When the trooper entered the residence, Hami was sitting on the floor; she displayed a knife and threatened the trooper several times. Hami was tased and was taken into custody. She was arraigned in the town of Afton Court where she was remanded to the Chenango County Jail on $10,000 cash bail or $20,000 bail bond. She will return to Afton Court on November 14th.

The American Red Cross is facing a severe blood shortage and urgently needs donors to give at the next area blood drive today in Oneonta from 2: to 6:00 PM at the Oneonta Family YMCA on Ford Avenue. Blood donors of all blood types, especially type O, and platelet donors are urged to make an appointment to donate at RedCrossBlood.org or by calling 1-800-RED CROSS

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

O’Connor Hospital in Delhi is offering a Free Smoking Cessation Program today during the American Cancer Society's "Great American Smokeout". The event will be held from 12:00 noon to 1:00 PM at the O’Connor Hospital, Board Conference Room, appointments are requested at 746-0334.

Autopsies have been completed on Christina Arvidson and Dustin McMahon of Richmondville, Who were found 1 week ago deceased in the town of Summit. The cause of death for Arvidson was a gunshot wound to the head, and the manner of death has been ruled a homicide. The cause of death for Dustin McMahon was a gunshot wound to the head, and the manner of death has been ruled suicide. The autopsy results are consistent with the evidence located at the scene. State Police are continuing with the investigation into the circumstances that led to the murder-suicide.

Over 800 Otsego County residents were without power earlier this morning. About 550 were without power around Cooperstown and the rest were in the Unadilla area. NYSEG reported that all power was restored by the late morning.

The Sidney Super 8 is holding a winter clothing drive for children, Super 8 General Manager Vesna Hoblitz explains:

(Vesna Hoblitz 11-12-18)

All of the items collected these items will be distributed at VEP on Main Street Sidney after the Jolly Holly Days Parade on November 30th at 7:00 PM. More information is available at 563-8880 of be email super8sidney@gmail.com.

O’Connor Hospital in Delhi announced today that they are offering a Free Smoking Cessation Program this Thursday November 15th, during the American cancer Society's "Great American Smokeout". The event will be held from 12:00 noon to 1:00 PM at the O’Connor Hospital, Board Conference Room, appointments are requested at 746-0334.

State & Local leaders & Binghamton Rumble Ponies President John Hughes announced today a $5.1 million dollar upgrade to NYSEG Stadium. The upgrades include new seats, a series of structural upgrades to the stadium infrastructure, new sod & drainage system for the ball field & 2 new video boards, in left & right field, a sound new system & upgrades to the clubhouse & dugouts and new netting to protect fans in the stands.

65 year old Daniel Drew of Buffalo has been identified as the pilot of the fatal plane crash near Chase Brook Road in the town of Tompkins Friday afternoon. Drew was the only person on the 6 passenger Cessna; he was heading for New Jersey after taking off from Niagara Falls. The cause of the crash is under investigation.

Delaware County Sheriff’s Deputies arrested 44 year old Patricia McNeilly of Franklin for Aggravated Unlicensed Operation of a Motor Vehicle in the 3rd Degree, and Operating a Motor Vehicle with a Suspended Registration, and insufficient head lamps. McNeilly was issued appearance tickets for Town of Delhi Court at a later date.

Delaware County Sheriff’s Deputies arrested 36 year old Dara Matthews of Meredith for DWI, Aggravated DWI, & having blood alcohol content greater that 0.18%, & criminal mischief, following an investigation of a domestic incident in the Town of Davenport. Matthews was arraigned at the Town of Davenport Court and was released upon her own recognizance.

Governor Cuomo announced that more than $372 million in assistance is available to help older adults and low- and middle-income New Yorkers heat their homes this winter. Applications for the Home Energy Assistance Program will be accepted by local departments of social services starting tomorrow. Eligibility is based on income, household size and how the home is heated. Applications are available at myBenefits.ny.gov.

State Police Responded to an apparent Murder Suicide in the town of Stamford Tuesday, after 57 year old Christopher German of South Kortright failed to show up for work in Cooperstown. Troop C BCI Captain Scott Heggelke Explains:

(Capt Scott Heggelke 11-7-18)

Captain Heggelke said that the incident occurred after 9:00 PM Monday; The Delaware County Coroner's Office ordered the bodies removed for autopsies, which were being performed at Lourdes Hospital in Binghamton this afternoon, the official cause and approximate time of death is expected to be in the final Autopsy report, which may be released later today.

The Trial for Ernest Franklin of Guilford has been delayed again, until early next year. Franklin & his wife Heather are accused of killing their developmentally disabled son & setting fire to their house to cover up the murder in the town of Guilford in March of 2017. Ernest Franklin is being held without bail pending the start of his trial; Heather Franklin was released on bail.

State Police arrested 25 year old Taylor Nelson of Afton for 2 counts of Criminal LOUDESPossession of a Controlled Substance, Criminal Possession of a Forged Instrument, Operating a Motor Vehicle while Impaired by Drugs, & Criminally Using Drug Paraphernalia. Troopers were dispatched to the Sunoco on County Route 39 in the town of Bainbridge to check the welfare of a male slumped behind the wheel of his vehicle. Troopers determined that Nelson was impaired and was in possession of a counterfeit $100 bill, methamphetamine, drug paraphernalia and items used to measure drug quantity. Nelson was arraigned in the town of Bainbridge Court where he was remanded to the Chenango County Jail on no bail.

State Police arrested 51 year old Marianne Stanislawski of Chenango for Grand Larceny, for allegedly taking advantage of a 75-year-old man who suffers from Alzheimer’s. An investigation revealed that Stanislawski knew the victim for several years; she would visit him weekly at his residence and help him run errands. The investigation further revealed that Stanislawski was making cash withdrawals that the victim did not approve of. Stanislawski was arrested and arraigned in the town of Oxford Court and released on her own recognizance and is to appear in court at a later date. An order of protection was issued by the judge protecting the victim.

Long Time State Assemblyman Cliff Crouch easily won the 122nd Assembly District on Election Day; he told WCDO News that he was thankful for that level of Support:

(Cliff Crouch 11-7-18)

Crouch defeated Conservative Nicholas Libous in Tuesday’s election; there was no Democratic candidate in the race. Crouch has served in the State Assembly since 1995.

The Southern Chenango County Community Listening Session, Hosted by Truth Pharm, will be held this evening in Bainbridge. The main topic of discussion will be the local drug abuse problem; the event will begin at 6:30 PM at Bob’s Diner in Bainbridge.

The results are in from the State Board of Elections in the U.S. Senate seat, Democratic incumbent Kirsten Gillibrand by a 2 to 1 margin over Republican Chele Farley, in local Congressional races, in the 19th District, Democrat Antonio Delgado defeats incumbent John Faso by about 3%. In the 22nd District: Democrat Anthony Brindisi defeats incumbent Claudia Tenney. In State Office races, Incumbent Democrat Andrew Cuomo defeated all challengers to win a 3rd term as Governor, State Comptroller Tom DiNapoli easily defeats all challengers for another term., and the new Attorney General will be Democrat Letitia James. In the race for the 6th District State Supreme Court seat, Republican Joe McBride wins. In area State Senate races, in the 42nd district, Democrat Jennifer Metzger wins over Republican Ann Rabbitt for the seat previously held by the retiring John Bonacic, in the 51st district, Republican Incumbent Jim Seward wins re-election for a 17th term, in the 52nd district , Incumbent Republican Fred Akshar was unopposed. In local State Assembly Races, in the 121 District: Republican John Salka defeats longtime incumbent Bill Magee, in the 122 District: Incumbent Cliff Crouch easily defeats Conservative Nicholas Libous, in the 123rd District: Democratic incumbent Donna Lupardo was unopposed & in the 102nd District: Democrat Aidan O’Conner wins by a slim margin over incumbent Republican Christopher Tague. Rich Devlin is re-elected as Otsego County Sheriff & David Harder is re-elected as Broome County Sheriff.

The National Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum will partner with the New York State Division of Veterans’ Affairs today to offer all military veterans free admission to the home of baseball in Cooperstown. More information is available at baseballhall.org or 888-HALL-OF-FAME or 547-7200.

Governor Cuomo today announced the state is dedicating $3 million for state-of-the-art studies to reduce flooding and ice jams and improve ecology on 48 priority flood-prone streams throughout New York State. The DEC and Office of General Services will implement the studies as part of the Resilient NY program, which will consist of flood studies to identify the causes of flooding within each watershed and develop, evaluate, and recommend effective and ecologically sustainable flood and ice-jam hazard mitigation projects.

State Police arrested 32 year old Jessica Klinegardner of Tompkins for Unlawful Possession of Personal Identification Information, after a complaint by the victim that she noticed suspicious charges on her deceased mother’s credit card. An investigation revealed that Klinegardner was working as a home health aide for the deceased victim; she was issued an appearance ticket to appear in the town of Tompkins Court on December 6th.

Tomorrow is Election Day, with a host of important races to be decided.
For FEDERAL Positions, in the U.S. SENATE, Democratic incumbent Kirsten Gillibrand faces Republican challenger Chele Farley. In area House of Representative Races; in the 19th District: Incumbent Republican John Faso faces challenges from Democrat Antonio Delgado, Green Candidate Steven Greenfield, & Independent Dianne Neal; in the 22nd District: Republican Incumbent Claudia Tenney vs Democrat Anthony Brindisi.
- - - - - - - - - -
In key races on the County Level, for Otsego County Sheriff; Incumbent Rich Devlin faces Robert Fernandez, in the Broome County Sheriff's race: Incumbent David Harder Vs Matt Ryan. . In the race for the 6th District of the State Supreme Court: Republican Joe McBride faces Democrat Elizabeth Burns.
- - - - - - - - -
For State Offices, for Governor: 2 term Incumbent Democrat Andrew Cuomo faces challenges from Republican Marcus Molinaro, Green Party Candidate Howie Hawkins, Libertarian Larry Sharpe, & Independent Stephanie Miner; in the race for Comptroller: Incumbent Democrat Tom DiNapoli, faces Republican Jonathan Trichter & Green Candidate Mark Dunlea, for Attorney General; Democrat Letitia James, Republican Keith Wofford, Green Candidate Michael Sussman, Libertarian Christopher Garvey are running In local State Senate races, in the 42nd District, Democrat Jennifer Metzger faces Republican Ann Rabbitt, in the 51st District; Republican Incumbent Jim Seward faces Democrat Joyce St. George. In the 52nd District, Incumbent Republican Fred Akshar is unopposed. In local State Assembly races, in the 121 District: Incumbent Bill Magee faces Republican John Salka, in the 122 District Incumbent Cliff Crouch faces a challenge from Conservative Nicholas Libous, there is no Democratic candidate. In the 123rd District: Democratic incumbent Donna Lupardo is unopposed, in the 102 District: Incumbent Republican Christopher Tague faces Democrat Aidan O’Conner

Attorney General Barbara Underwood announced her office's Election Day Hotline, which is available to help troubleshoot and resolve a range of issues encountered by voters at the polls during the general election on Tuesday, November 6th. The Attorney General urges voters experiencing problems or issues at the polls to call the office's hotline at 800-771-7755 or email civil.rights@ag.ny.gov at any time between 6:00 AM and 9:00 PM on Tuesday. The hotline will be staffed by attorneys and staff in the Attorney General's Civil Rights Bureau.

Delaware County Sheriff’s Deputies arrested 31 year old Jessie Bolster and 40 year old Roy Bolster of Harpursville after they were stopped in Hancock for Traffic infractions. Jessie Bolster was operating the motor vehicle while having several active suspensions; Roy Bolster was wanted on an active arrest warrant from Tompkins County Family Court. A search of the vehicle revealed the pair were in possession of Oxycodone & bags of crystal methamphetamine. Both were charged with 4 counts of Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance, Jessie Bolster was additionally charged with Aggravated Unlicensed Operation. Both were arraigned & were remanded to the Delaware County Correctional Facility in lieu of $10,000 cash/$20,000 secured bond.

The Otsego County Sheriff's Department responded Friday to the report of a bear getting hit by a car on State Route 28 in the town of Milford. The unidentified Driver was not injured, the vehicle was towed from the scene and the bear was killed in the collision, which was reported at about 7:20 AM Friday Morning.

State Police executed a residential search warrant at a home in the town of Delancey; they arrested 20 year old David Dotey on 3 felony counts of Promoting Obscene Sexual Performance by a Child, Possessing Obscene Sexual Performance by a Child and Computer Trespass. Dotey is accused of uploading and distributing sexual performance by prepubescent children, he was arraigned and was remanded to the Delaware County Jail on $2,500 cash bail or $5,000 property bond. The case is still under investigation, additional charges are possible.

Governor Cuomo announced $13 million is available for restoration and recovery efforts following the severe storms and flash flooding on August 13-15 that severely impacted communities in the Southern Tier. A new residential assistance program has been created to provide funding to primary homeowners whose damages exceed insurance claims and other available aid. With maximum grants of $50,000, this program will help eliminate the unmet need of homeowners. Applications from homeowners for the residential assistance program will be accepted starting today, the deadline for applications are February 4, 2019.

A woman, who suffered cardiac arrest Friday, is expected to survive after the quick actions of State Troopers and a citizen. A trooper was dispatched to a report of a 70-year-old woman who had collapsed in the lobby of the Richfield Springs Post Office, She was unresponsive when the trooper arrived and a citizen was already performing CPR. Another trooper arrived & administered the Automated External Defibrillator, EMS arrived, and they took the woman to Basset Hospital in Cooperstown. The unidentified woman regained consciousness at the hospital and is expected to recover.

3 proposals were received by the Unatego School District for the sale of the former Otego Elementary School. Superintendent Dr. Dave Richards explains:

(Dave Richards 7-10-18)

Dr. Richards said that the proposals received were from the Kildonan School of Amenia, to turn the building into a school for Dyslexic children, from LPP Management for a mixed use facility & 2+4 Management for senior apartments.

State Police are investigating a 1 vehicle crash on State Route 357 in the town of Unadilla that troopers discovered while on patrol. The Unidentified 40 year old man apparently drove off the highway, into Guide wires & a tree, he was extricated by Unadilla Firefighter & he was airlifted to Wilson Hospital in Johnson City for treatment of head injuries & an arm fracture. The investigation is ongoing.

The Town of Sidney Offices, including the Court, has been moved into the New Sidney office building at 44 Grand Street. Sidney Town Supervisor Gene Pigford comments:

(Gene Pigford 7-10-18)

The next Town of Sidney Board meeting will officially be held in the 44 Grand Street location in Sidney. The moves were precipitated by the sale of the Sidney Civic Center to 2+4 Management Company, who have built senior apartments on the 2nd & 3rd Floors, which forced offices to move to the 1st floor, or out of the building into new locations.

Otsego County Sheriff's department arrested 36 year old Ryan Biggs of Gloversville following an accident in Worcester Sunday. Biggs is accused of driving mentally & physically disabled people in an ARC vehicle while intoxicated, he was charged with DWI & endangering the welfare of an incompetent or disable person, he was released & faces court action at a later date.

A Cortland man was found guilty by an Otsego County Jury for selling heroin & cocaine in the city of Oneonta recently. 34 year old Jason Chase was found guilty after the jury deliberated for about 40 minute, he was returned to the Otsego County Jail pending sentencing on August 3rd on 2 counts of criminal possession of a controlled substance.

Delaware County Sheriff’s Deputies arrested 28 year old Aaron Dumond of Denver New York for Tampering with Physical Evidence & Conspiracy, after a reported Assault in Roxbury in May. Dumond allegedly altered and concealed physical evidence; he was arraigned & was remanded to the Delaware County Jail on $20,000 cash bail or $40,000 bond pending future court action.

State Police at Deposit arrested 25 year old William Caiati of Tompkins, for Aggravated Family Offense, Criminal Mischief, Criminal Obstruction of Breathing and Harassment. A trooper responded July 4th to a domestic dispute, where 1 victim reported that Caiati placed his hands around her neck, restricting breathing and she was shoved to the ground and injured her wrist, Ciaiti is also accused of disabling the victim's phone. A second victim reported that he allegedly punched her when she attempted to intervene. Caiati left, but was located by phone & turned himself in, he was arraigned in the town of Deposit and remanded to the Delaware County Jail on $1000 cash bail. An order of protection was also issued.

State Police at Oneonta arrested 28 year old Kevin Matthews of Worcester for Unlawful Use of a Motor Vehicle. Troopers responded to a report of a vehicle that was taken without the owner’s permission, Matthews allegedly took the vehicle on July 4th, another vehicle in that driveway sustained damage. Troopers observed the vehicle on I-88 in Richmondville, they arrested Matthews for Driving while Ability Impaired by Drugs and other charges. Matthews was later turned over to troopers at SP Oneonta where he was arrested for Unlawful Use of a Motor Vehicle. He was arraigned in the Decatur Town Court and remanded to the Otsego County Jail on $1000 cash bail or $2500 bond.

State Senator Jim Seward joined officials from local domestic violence prevention programs Monday to announce state grants totaling $45,000 to help support key community services. The funding awards included: Opportunities for Otsego - $15,000; Catholic Charities of Delaware, Otsego & Schoharie Counties - $15,000; Delaware Opportunities - $7,500 & Liberty Resources in Chenango County - $7,500.

State Police at Sidney arrested 35 year old Ronald Greek of Dansville, for DWI with a reported B.A.C of .24%. A trooper on State Route 23 in Oneonta where Greek is accused of Speeding & being intoxicated, He was arrested & was released on appearance tickets for town of Oneonta Court on July 24th.

State Police at Sidney arrested 39 year old John Forte of Unadilla for Aggravated DWI with a reported B.A.C of .21%. Troopers were dispatched to a complaint of an intoxicated driver, a trooper located the vehicle in the driveway of a residence on Depot Street, Forte was arrested & was released on appearance tickets returnable to the town of Unadilla Court on July 23, 2018 then later turned over to a sober third party.

The Afton Fair will be held 3 days this year from Friday through Sunday with a host of activities. Fair Spokesperson Rhonda Barriger told WCDO News about Friday’s Line-up:

(Rhonda Barriger 7-5-18)

This year is the 129th Afton Fair; more information is available at theaftonfair.com or at the Afton Fair Facebook page.

A portion of a railroad bridge in downtown Syracuse has collapsed, causing closures in the area & stopping Central New York Rail Traffic this afternoon. Emergency crews blocked off the area of West Onondaga Street and South Clinton Street after part of a bridge collapsed in Syracuse This afternoon at about 1:00 PM. Syracuse
Mayor Ben Walsh said that nobody was hurt in the accident, some utility lines were brought down. The bridge is owned by the New York, Susquehanna and Western Railway.

Catholic Charities announced that they will hold their Family Color Run Walk on July 21st in Keith Clark par in Sidney. Spokesperson Tracy Martindale said that there is a discount if people sign up to participate by tomorrow:

(Tracy Martindale 7-5-18)

Registration forms can be found at the Oneonta, Sidney or Cobleskill Catholic Charities offices or online at charitiesccdo.org. The race will begin at 9:00 AM on July 21st; registration will begin before the race at 8:15 AM.

US Senator Chuck Schumer visited Brewery Ommegang in Cooperstown Tuesday, where he discussed a proposal to cut taxes by 50% for the growing number of small breweries opening up across the state. Schumer was also calling for more funding for the Tobacco Trade & Tax Bureau, who are understaffed with inspectors tasked with reviewing & allowing permits for the growing amount of small breweries.

State DEC Officials announced that 2 men have been charged, for allegedly dumping waste from the power cleaning of the Oneonta High School Track, into the Oneonta creek nearby. John Scott & Victor Doratto of Copeland Coating Company were ticketed for disturbing a protected stream, after local residents reported the change in color of the creek.

The race for the 19th Congressional District is heating up, after the recent Democratic primary. Both republican Incumbent John Faso & Democratic challenger Antonio Delgado appeared in Oneonta this week, Faso toured Custom Electronics in Oneonta Tuesday, Delgado campaigned in Neahwa Park Wednesday during the annual 4th of July Hometown Festival.

Bullthistle Brewing Company of Sherburne will be photographed and videotaped on Monday July 9 for the Brew Central national advertising campaign, which brings together the stories behind craft beer, hard cider, wineries and spirits in Central New York with a website and ad placement in some of the nation’s premier beer magazines. Bullthistle Brewing Company will also be featured in the next installment of the YouTube series, “Stories on Tap”, the filming is scheduled for about 5:00 PM Monday at the Company's site at 45 South Main Street in Sherburne.

Service arrangements for Trooper Nicholas Clark have been set for Saturday and Sunday. Calling Hours will be held Saturday from 1:00PM to 6:00PM at Alfred University's Physical Education Center; the Funeral Service will be on Sunday at 11:00 AM at Alfred University's Physical Education Center. Trooper Clark was fatally shot Monday Morning responding to the report of a suicidal suspect barricaded in his residence, in Steuben County.

Delaware County Sheriff’s Deputies 22 year old arrested Daniel Tompkins of Gilboa for Criminal Mischief, Tampering with Evidence, Assault, Conspiracy, Tompkins allegedly assaulted an individual after having conspired with others and that Tompkins damaged the property of the assaulted victim with damages estimated to be in excess of $1500.00. Tompkins is accused of altering & hiding evidence from this incident. Tompkins was arraigned at the Town of Stamford Court; he was remanded to the Delaware County Correctional Facility on $15,000 cash bail or $30,000 in bond. He will re-appear in the Town of Stamford Court at a later date.

Delaware County Sheriff Deputies were dispatched to Delaware Valley Hospital in Walton on June 26th as a result of patients seeking medical treatment following an ATV accident. The Investigation revealed that a 12 year old Walton girl was operating an ATV in the Town of Tompkins when she lost control, left the roadway, traveled down an embankment, overturned and came to a rest in a creek bed. The driver and 2 passengers on the ATV, 42 year old Beth Czerniak and an 8 year old girl, all 3 were treated at Delaware Valley Hospital. Czerniak was later transported to Wilson Hospital, Johnson City, for further treatment of a head injury. Deputies have arrested Beth Czerniak of Walton for 2 counts of endangering the welfare of a child and for numerous other traffic charges, she will appear in Town of Tompkins Court at a later date to answer the charges.

The Broome County Special Investigations Unit Task Force Arrested 2 people on drug charges after they searched a vehicle and a hotel room Tuesday. 30 year old Johnnah Degraw of Binghamton & 36 year old Marlon Graham of East Patchogue are accused of possessing crystal meth, Suboxone strips, drug packaging materials and $1,066 from suspected drug sales. Both were charged with criminal possession of a controlled substance & criminally using drug paraphernalia, they face court action shortly.

State DEC Commissioner Basil Seggos announced the release of New York’s final policy for manufacturer disclosures under the State’s Household Cleansing Product Information Disclosure Program. The program requires manufacturers of cleaning products to disclose chemical ingredients, byproducts and contaminants with the potential to trigger asthma in adults and children, on their websites. More information about the Household Cleansing Product Information Disclosure Program can be found at on.ny.gov/cleaningproducts.

The Main Street Revitalization Project in continuing in Sidney. Crews have been cementing the West Side of the street this week, today, Trees were being placed in the ground on the East side of the street. The whole project is expected to be completed in Late July.

Catholic Charities is looking to help area people with limited space, to have their own "Container Garden" of various vegetables to grow & eventually eat. Penny McKnight of the Sidney Catholic Charities office explains:

(Penny McKnight 6-6-18)

McKnight said that the registration period to participate in the Container gardening program is Friday; the pick-up event will be June 13th from 1:30 to 3:00 PM at the Sidney United Methodist Church on Liberty Street in Sidney. More information is available at 604-4071.

Governor Cuomo announced an extreme risk protection order law that would prevent individuals determined by a court that are likely to engage in violent conduct from purchasing, possessing, or attempting to purchase or possess any type of firearm. The legislation would make New York the first state in the nation to empower its teachers and school administrators to prevent school shootings by pursuing court intervention. No law currently exists in New York State that enables a court to issue an order to temporarily seize firearms from a person who is believed to pose a severe threat of harm to himself, herself, or others unless that person has also been accused of a crime or family offense.

Delaware County Sheriff’s Office and the Walton Volunteer Fire Department Emergency Squad responded to a tractor trailer accident in the Town of Walton last Thursday. 37 year old Joel Klinegardner of Sidney Center was towing a trailer carrying a log skidder, the vehicle’s brakes failed, Klinegardner lost control, the truck struck a sign, the trailer detached & overturned in a parking lot, the truck struck a tree before coming to rest, Klinegardner was not injured, charges will be filed at the conclusion of this investigation.

Southern Tier Solar Works is launching its 2018 Community Shared Solar non-profit program, which offers discounted solar power to people who cannot or choose not to install solar at home. The free event will take place today from 4:30-6:00 pm at Awestruck Cider in Sidney; more information is available at SouthernTierSolarWorks.org.

Delaware County Public Health will hold a Free Rabies Vaccination Clinic today for dogs, cats and ferrets. The Clinic will be held from 5:00 to 7:00 PM at Town of Tompkins Highway Garage at 148 Bridge Street in Trout Creek.

The Norwich Fire Department announced that Jan Papelino was unanimously voted to become the fire chief by all six members of the city council. Papelino was an assistant fire chief and volunteer for 39 years & will succeed the recently retired former chief, Tracy Chawgo.

The Broome County Special Investigations Unit Task Force arrested 30 year old Rashi Johnson of Queens, as he exited a bus in Binghamton. Johnson is accused of possessing 217 bags of heroin and 7.3 grams of crack cocaine, Johnson is charged with 3 counts of Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance with intent to sell & Criminal Sale of a Controlled Substance.

20 year old Kurtis Richards of Johnson City faces up to 20 years in federal prison for his involvement in a meth-manufacturing lab. Richards was part of an arrest of 16 people charged with operating a meth lab in the Southern Tier. Richards will be sentenced August 9th in US District court in Binghamton, for his guilty plea for possessing the pseudoephedrine, an over the counter medicine used to manufacture methamphetamine.

The State Legislature approved of Barbara Underwood remaining as interim attorney general in the aftermath of Eric Schneiderman's resignation. Underwood will stay on as the Attorney General until the end of the year; she will not seek election for the office in November.

State DEC officials are warning New York Motorists to be on the lookout for turtles in the road. Thousands of turtles are killed each year in New York by vehicles; Turtles migrate to nesting areas in May and June, and are more likely to cross roads near rivers and marshy areas. State environmental officials remind drivers that they should only stop and move turtles when conditions are safe.

The Arc Otsego is accepting artwork submissions for its 14th Annual Voice event, which will be held July 27th through August 10th in the Fine Arts Building at SUNY Oneonta. The opening reception will be held on July 27th from 5:00 to 7:00 PM, anyone living in New York State who is 18 years of age or older and has an intellectual and/or other developmental disability may submit artwork for consideration. The artwork submission form is available at www.arcotsego.org. The deadline for submissions is June 10th.

A.O. Fox Hospital will offer training for teenagers interested in becoming junior volunteers. The training is scheduled for July 10th from 8:30 AM to 3:30 PM in the Fox Hospital’s Education Department. More information is available at the Fox Volunteer Office at 431-5042; the registration deadline is June 22nd.

The Induction Ceremony for this year's General Clinton Hall of Fame will be taking place this SaturdayHall Of Fame Committee member Greg Davie explains:

(Greg Davie 5-23-18)

The ceremony will start with a meet and greet 5:30 PM, at General Clinton Park in Bainbridge.

Governor Cuomo's office announced that he will take on Cynthia Nixon in a televised debate. The details of the debate are still being worked out, such as the date & location of the event.

The State Department of Labor released preliminary local unemployment rates for April. The number of private sector jobs in the State was 8,155,700 while the State’s seasonally adjusted unemployment rate was unchanged at 4.6% in April. Locally, Chenango County's unemployment rate was 5.6%, Delaware County was 6% & Otsego County was at 5.1%

The State DOT will host an open house public information meeting this evening at 6:00 PM at the Colesville Town Hall on Welton Street in Harpursville regarding the Dilly Road culvert replacement project. The proposed work zone traffic control will require an approximate 2 week closure of Dilly Road at the intersection of State Route 7. Traffic will use a three-mile, six-minute detour. Dilly Road accommodates an average of 60 vehicles daily. The project is in the preliminary design phase. Construction is currently scheduled for the 2019 construction season.

After 2 confirmed Rabies case, Delaware County Public health announced that Rabies clinics in Delaware County will be held today from 6:00 to 8:00 PM at the Town of Stamford Garage, June 6th from 5:00 to 7:00 PM at the Town of Tompkins Highway Garage, in Trout Creek & June 13th from 6:00 to 8:00 PM at the Town of Walton Highway Garage.

The Work is moving along at a good pace so far this year, on the 2nd side of the Sidney Main Street Revitalization plan. Ian Law of Place Alliance outlined the timeline of the project at this morning’s public meeting:

(Ian Law 5-21-18)

Law said that the Torta Construction has set an end date for both sides of the street for August.

Delaware County Sheriff’s Deputies arrested 34 year old James Bellows of Fleischmanns, as a fugitive from justice from McLeod County, Minnesota. Bellows was arraigned at the Town of Delhi Court where he was remanded to the custody of the Delaware County Jail without bail pending extradition from Minnesota.

The State DOT will host an open house public information meeting on Wednesday from 6 – 7 p.m. at the Colesville Town Hall, regarding the Dilly Road culvert replacement project. NYSDOT representatives will be available, Construction is currently scheduled for the 2019 construction season.

The Otsego County Relay For Life held in Milford, raised about $42,000 for cancer research & programs this weekend. the next Relay for Life locally will be the Tri Town Relay on Friday June 8th at General Clinton Park in Bainbridge.

Saturday will be another busy day at general Clinton Park, for the General Clinton Canoe regatta, with the Section 4 Wrestling Officials Association youth wrestling tournament & the Annual Dan Elwood Run/Walk, regatta Chairman John Harmon comments:

(John Harmon 5-21-18)

More information about the Wrestling Tournament is available at 656-7241 or 237-8042. The Dan Elwood Memorial event will begin at 9:00 AM on Saturday at General Clinton Park, more information about all the races & events are available at canoeregatta.org.

2 raccoons have tested positive for rabies, one in Andes and the other in Bovina. 1 dog was exposed to a confirmed rabid raccoon in Andes, there were no human exposures, and the dog was not up to date on vaccinations & has begun 6 month quarantine. In Bovina one person was bitten by a confirmed rabid raccoon, that person has begun Rabies Post Exposure Treatment. Rabies clinics in Delaware County will be held Wednesday from 6:00 to 8:00 PM at the Town of Stamford Garage, June 6th from 5:00 to 7:00 PM at the Town of Tompkins Highway Garage, in Trout Creek & June 13th from 6:00 to 8:00 PM at the Town of Walton Highway Garage.

22nd Congressional District Candidate Assemblyman Anthony Brindisi of Utica will be holding a town hall meeting that will be free and open to the public. The meeting will be held at the American Legion at 177 Robinson Street in Binghamton beginning at 6:00 pm.

Sidney Village Police announced the arrest of 2 people Tuesday, after they executed a search warrant along with State Police. An 18 year old Sidney youth was charged with criminal possession of a controlled substance, criminal possession of a weapon & Criminal Possession of Stolen Property Assault, Endangering the welfare of a minor & Harassment, he was arraigned & was remanded to the Delaware county jail on $10,000 cash bail. Am 18 year old Unadilla youth was also charged with criminal possession of Stolen property, he was arraigned & was sent to the Delaware County Jail on $3,000 bail. The investigation is ongoing & more charges are pending.

Governor Cuomo today issued a cease and desist letter to ICE to demand the immediate stop of their unconstitutional enforcement actions. Cuomo condemns the agency's patterns of targeting immigrants and jeopardize public safety in places of businesses, and public places such as schools. Also the Governor signed an executive order to modify executive order #170 to prohibit ICE arrests in state facilities without a warrant, and it also prohibits law enforcement officers from inquiring about immigration status unless they are investigating illegal criminal activity.

Delaware County Sheriff Deputies arrested 28 year old Donald Kern of Hancock for Aggravated Unlicensed Operation after they responded to a 1 car property damage accident on South Dry Brook Road in the Town of Tompkins. Kern is accused of operating his motor vehicle while his driving privileges were suspended. Kern was issued an appearance ticket having to appear in the Town of Tompkins Court at a later date.

The Annual "Regatta Row" display of chairs, tables made from canoe paddles, plus canoe paddles designed by local artists, will be on display starting Saturday, this year's theme is "Scenes of New York, event organizer Nancy Kitchen told WCDO News that the items will be judged, and auctioned off during the regatta this year:

(Nancy Kitchen 4-25-18)

The pieces will be on display along North main Street in Bainbridge for the next few weeks & will be auctioned off on May 24th at under a tent at General Clinton park, prior to this year's Regatta Hall Of fame ceremonies.

The Chenango Arts Council received a grant to spruce up their facility in Downtown Norwich, Council Executive Director Alecia O'Neill explains:

(Alecia O'Neill 4-25-18)

O'Neill said that they are also getting ready for the Annual Allego 5K run and walk in May, details about their events are available at Chenango Arts.org.

State Comptroller Tom DiNapoli released the results of several audits today, including an audit of the Village of Milford. Key Findings were: Duties performed by the Clerk-Treasurer are not segregated, and the Board does not provide adequate oversight & The Board did not ensure that the required annual audit of the Clerk-Treasurer’s records was performed. DiNapoli's auditors recommended that the Board should periodically review bank statements, canceled check images, bank reconciliations and monthly reports & they should perform the required annual audit of the Clerk-Treasurer’s records.

Community Foundation for South Central New York announced that they have awarded $5,000 to Organizations in Walton, from the Paul G. and Miriam B. Mattern Fund. After a competitive local selection process, the advisory committee approved 2 grants to the Town of Walton for $2,500 to support the River Edge Trail planning activities, and $2,500 for the Walton Cemetery Association for the repair and maintenance of roads in the cemetery.

The State Board of Elections announced that all precincts have reported in the 102nd State Assembly race, they have declared Republican Christopher Tague as the winner, with 45.8% of the vote, over Democrat Aidan O'Connor with 44.3%, and Independent candidate Wesley Laraway with 9.7%. Tague replaces Pete Lopez, who left the seat last year following an appointment to the EPA.

Governor Cuomo last week signed an executive order last week that allows parolees to be able to register to vote after completing their sentence, Local Assemblyman Cliff crouch responds:

(Cliff Crouch 4-25-18)

Crouch said that he thinks that Governor Cuomo is feeling pressured from the Left Wing of the Democratic Party, since Liberal Actress Cynthia Nixon entered the race for Governor.

Governor Cuomo launched the 3rd round of the Downtown Revitalization Initiative, investing $100 million into 10 additional downtown neighborhoods across the state. In its third year, the proven-successful investment will boost local economies; locally the City of Oneonta won the 10 million dollar award & is in the process of improving several areas for future developments.

State Police CNET officers & Oneonta Police Department executed a search warrant at 5357 State Route 7 in Oneonta's East End. Police arrested 35 year old Benjamin Bockus of Oneonta for multiple counts of Criminal Possession of Controlled Substance, plus Criminal Possession of Marihuana, Criminal Nuisance and 2 counts of Criminally using Drug Paraphernalia. Police seized approximately 48 grams of cocaine, approximately 300 grams of psychedelic mushrooms, concentrated cannabis, 2.5 pounds of marihuana, 3 digital scales, cellular phones, drug packaging material and $7,985.00 in cash. Bockus was arraigned in the Town of Oneonta Court and remanded to the Otsego County Jail on $25,000 cash bail or $50,000 bond.

State Police at Troop C have released the results of their crackdown on impaired drivers over the St. Patrick’s Day weekend. 11 impaired driving arrests were reported by Troop C, while statewide, there were 217 impaired driving arrests in New York State on Friday, Saturday and Sunday.

Bassett Healthcare Network announced that William Streck will return to the organization to assume the role of President and CEO, following the decision by current CEO Vance Brown to step down effective April 20th, , to pursue opportunities outside of Bassett. Streck served as Bassett’s President & CEO from 1984 to 2014, he then joined the Healthcare Association of New York State as Chief Medical and Health Systems Innovation Officer. Streck will also be tasked with developing a long-term leadership strategy for Bassett Healthcare Network. Last fall, William LeCates, was appointed acting president of Bassett Medical Center and will be president of Bassett Medical Center when the network CEO transition is completed.

Delaware County Chamber of Commerce along with other agencies, is transforming the former Andel inn of Andes into an agri-business incubator, called the " Delaware County Foodworks Plus", Chamber President Ray Pucci explains:

(Ray Pucci 3-20-18)

The Inn was purchased last month by the Delaware County IDA for $320,000.

State Police arrested 25 year old Chad Darwesh of Schenectady for Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance and Criminally Using Drug Paraphernalia, Unlawful Possession of Marihuana and Controlled Substances in Non-Original Container and several traffic infractions. Troopers observed Darwesh speeding on Interstate 88 in Otego, A passenger 30 year old Michael Horton of Schenectady, was charged with Unlawful Possession of Marihuana. Darwesh was arraigned in the town of Otego Court and remanded to the Otsego County Jail on $1,000 cash bail or $2,000 bond.

41 year old Louisa Garcia of Oxford pleaded guilty to making a false claim against the United States for assisting in the preparation of a false tax return. Garcia admitted that she prepared 110 false tax returns between 2011 and 2014, resulting in an intended loss to the United States of $848,196. Garcia faces up to 8 years in prison, post-imprisonment supervised release of up to 3 years, and a maximum $250,000 fine, when she is sentenced on July 17th.

The New York State Fair Officials announced today that Rock & Roll Hall of Fame members "Blondie" will take the stage on the fair's opening day on the Chevy Court. Opening day for the Great New York State Fair is Wednesday August 22nd at 8:00 pm.

The Delaware Academy Girls Basketball Team will celebrate their State Championship on Wednesday, with a parade down Main Street in downtown Delhi at 5:30 PM. The parade will line up at 5:00 PM at Clinton Street & will end up by the Social Services Building on Main Street, more information is available at delhischools.org.

Oneonta Mayor Gary Herzig will deliver the annual State of The City Address tonight at 7:00 PM, during the Oneonta Common Council meeting. Prior to the annual address at 6:15, Mayor Herzig will present the annual Trailblazer Awards in the City Hall Lobby.

Broome County District Attorney Steve Cornwell announced that a $5,000 reward was issued for information leading to the arrest of 20 year old Valentino Mondolfi, who is a witness in the ongoing Broome County Court murder trial of Jabari Ashe. Mondolfi is described as 5 feet 6 inches tall, 140 pounds, with brown eyes and black hair. Anyone with information is asked to call Binghamton Police at 772-7080.

Delaware County Sheriff Deputy’s arrested 48 year old Michael Wright of Walton for DWI & Aggravated Unlicensed Operation, after deputies observed a vehicle traveling at a high rate of speed in the Town of Tompkins. Wright is also accused of driving with a revoked license; he was arraigned in the Town of Hamden Court & was remanded to the Delaware County Jail on $500 cash bail. Wright is to re-appear in the Town of Tompkins Court at a later date.

State Police arrested 21 year old Johnathan Ruland of Lancaster, Pennsylvania for DWI, Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance and Unlawful Possession of Marijuana. Ruland was stopped at a checkpoint on State Highway 7, in the town of Unadilla, troopers accused Ruland of possessing marijuana and cocaine & he was wanted on a warrant with the Village of Sidney Police. Ruland was arraigned in the town of Unadilla and remanded to the Otsego County Jail on $1,500 bail. He is scheduled to reappear in the town of Unadilla on April 9th.

Delaware County Sheriff’s Deputies arrested and charged 54 year-old Lorraine Hahn of the Walton for DWI in the Village of Walton, she was also issued a ticket for operating a motor vehicle with inadequate brake lights. Hahn was released on an appearance ticket and scheduled to appear before the Village of Walton Court at a later date.

Former Sidney Mayor Jim Warren has died at the age of 81. Warren taught in the Sidney High School, served for many years on the Sidney Village Board, before being elected as Mayor from 1999 to 2011. No services are scheduled, but donations in Warren's name can be made to the Delaware Valley Humane society.

Governor Cuomo today announced he is advancing a 30-day budget amendment to prohibit sexual contact between police officers and those in custody. Under current law, incarcerated individuals cannot give consent to corrections officers or probation officers, but the law does not apply to sexual activity between police officers and those who are detained or otherwise in custody. This legislation will amend the law to expressly include police officers.

Delhi police arrested 20-year-old Willie Lopez of Queens for burglary & criminal mischief. Lopez is accused of breaking into the Delhi McDonalds, and damaging ceiling tiles, he was arraigned & was sent to the Delaware County Jail on $5,000 cash bail pending future court action.

New York State is now home to 400 breweries, surpassing the previous record of 393 breweries set in 1876. The number of breweries has skyrocketed since the state's first Wine, Beer and Spirits Summit in 2012, with 243 new breweries obtaining licenses, and beer being brewed in 57 of the state's 62 counties. Additionally, 202 new farm brewery licenses have been issued since a farm brewery law went into effect on January 1, 2013. Additionally, institutions including Cornell University, SUNY Morrisville, and Hartwick College's Center for Craft Food and Beverage are now engaged in research and offering testing of barely, malt and beer quality, Morrisville and Hartwick also have programs to train New York's next generation of brewers.

State Police arrested 27 year old Nathaniel Richardson of Unadilla and 28 year old Katrina Ellis-Seymour of Sidney, for Petty Larceny, the 2 are accused of shoplifting several times on February 9th at the Oneonta Wal-Mart, and allegedly stole merchandise valued at more than $200. Richardson and Ellis-Seymour were subsequently arraigned before the Oneonta Town Court and were remanded to Otsego County Jail in lieu of $300 cash bail. Their next court date is pending.

Governor Cuomo today announced he is advancing a 30-day budget amendment to crack down on physician misconduct. The legislation will authorize the Health Commissioner to order those charged with a felony related to their medical practice whose alleged conduct may present a public risk to immediately stop practicing medicine, and to obtain a warrant to search an accused physician's home, office and belongings. In addition, the legislation reduces the response time for supplying relevant documentation.

The Chenango County Republican Committee has endorsed District Attorney Joseph A. McBride for New York State Supreme Court in the Sixth Judicial District. The endorsement came following a vote of Committee Members from across Chenango County. The Sixth Judicial District encompasses all of Broome, Chemung, Chenango, Cortland, Delaware, Madison, Otsego, Schuyler, Tioga and Tompkins Counties. The vacancy in this office was created by the recent retirement of Judge Kevin Dowd.