WCDO Radio News

P.M. NEWS MONDAY 2-2-26

The Chenango County Sheriff’s Office has been made aware of a scam currently circulating, as Several county residents have reported receiving phone calls claiming they have an active warrant for their arrest and are instructed to pay a sum of money to have the matter “cleared up.” This is a scam, as the Chenango County Sheriff’s Office will never contact individuals by phone to demand payment.

The Binghamton Rumble Ponies announced an extension of 5 more years to the naming rights agreement with Mirabito. The new agreement also continues in with Visions Federal Credit Union, who is the title sponsor of the Starting Gate Box Office at Mirabito Stadium, Rumble Ponies GM Richard Tylicki explains:

(Richard Tylicki 2-2-26)

The new Agreement between Mirabito Energy Products and Visions Federal Credit Union runs through the duration of the Major League Baseball's Professional Development agreement with the New York Mets through 2030. Also today, tickets went on sale for Rumble Ponies games at Mirabito Stadium, more information is available at bingrp.com.

Local Film-makers Joe Stillman & Jeri Wachter will be showing 5 of their Documentaries on uniquely American Stories on Friday & Saturday at Foothills in Oneonta, Joe Stillman told WCDO News about the films:

(Joe Stillman 2-2-26)

The films include the Jimmy Massey Story, about a former Marine speaking out on abuses during the Iraq War, another about former US Attorney General Ramsey Clark, another about poverty in Agriculture, another about COVID 19's effect on Americans & the 5th about 500 years of history being rediscovered in South Texas. Jeri Wachter said that both of them will be there both Friday & Saturday at Foothills, Veterans can attend free and how tickets can be purchased:

(Jeri Wachter 2-2-26)

More information is available at important films media.com. the films will be run from 2:00 PM through 10:00 PM both days.

Governor Kathy Hochul today announced Empire AI campus partnerships between SUNY’s university centers, university colleges, technology colleges, and community colleges to advance artificial intelligence research and education for the public good. The State University of New York at Albany is partnering with SUNY Oneonta, SUNY Cobleskill Ag & Tech, and Hudson Valley Community College on 1 project, and The State University of New York at Binghamton is partnering with SUNY Cortland, SUNY Delhi, SUNY New Paltz, SUNY Oneonta, Broome Community College, and Tompkins Cortland Community College om\n another project.

A.M. NEWS MONDAY 2-2-26

Delaware County Sheriff’s Deputies arrested 30-year-old Daniel Roe of Davenport, who is accused of subjecting a juvenile to sexual contact in May 2024. Roe was also alleged to have subjected another juvenile to inappropriate sexual conversations during the same time frame. Investigators arrested Roe on 2 counts of Endangering the Welfare of a Child, 1 count of Forcible Touching, 1 count of Sexual Abuse, Roe was arraigned & Orders of Protection were issued for the victims. Roe was later released on his own recognizance and was directed to appear at the Town of Davenport Court at a later date to answer the charges.

Delaware County Sheriff's Office arrested 35 year old Shane Tweedie of Walton following an investigation into a stolen vehicle complaint reported in the Town of Bovina and was later located in the Village of Walton. Tweedie was located by deputies in the Village of Walton and he was charged with Unauthorized Use of a Motor Vehicle, Grand Larceny, Burglary, Criminal Contempt & Criminal Trespass, Tweedie was transported to the Delaware County Correctional Facility to await Centralized Arraignment Court.

City of Oneonta announced that crews will be installing new Rapid Flashing Beacons at crosswalks at the new roundabout project. Motorists should expect temporary lane closures at various times over the next two weeks, at Main Street East, Lettis Highway South, Main Street West through the roundabout and at Pine Street.

Otsego County Sheriff's Office arrested 19 year old Dayton Carney of Pittsfield, for Assault & Endangering the Welfare of a Child, following an investigation into an assault complaint in the Town of Milford. Carney was arrested and processed & was turned over to Corrections Staff to await arraignment, he will appear in the Milford Town Court at a later date.

P.M. NEWS MONDAY 4-14-25

The New York State Budget is 14 days late, and budget extenders have been implemented to pay state employees and keep state programs functioning. Assemblyman Joe Angelino said that the hold-up is one that has come up many times over the last 3 decades in Albany:

(Joe Angelino 4-14-25)

Angelino said that the big sticking point is the reforms to the state's discovery laws, which involves including late evidence being turned in from District Attorney's to Defense attorneys prior to a trial, the Governor wants some reform, much of the legislature does not.

The annual Recruit New York Days will be on April 26th or 27th, where fire companies & EMS squads are looking to add to their ranks, Roger Barnhart of the Bainbridge Fire Department told WCDO News that at the Bainbridge & Unadilla events, there will be additional programs for the community:

(Roger Barnhart 4-14-25)

The full list of Fire Department participating in the RecruitNY program can be found at recruitny.org.

The Chenango County Department of Public works will close County Road 39 between Old Gifford Road and State Route 206 in Bainbridge, starting Tuesday for the replacement of a large culvert. The road closure is expected to last 1 to 3 days, depending on weather conditions.

The Sidney Chamber of Commerce is bringing back the Summer Music Series downtown, on the 3rd Wednesday of the month, Chamber President Teri Schunk explains:

(Teri Schunk 4-14-25)

Schunk said that more information about the music series & other events can be found at the Sidney Chamber of Commerce Facebook page.

A.M. NEWS Monday 4-14-25

State Police arrested 37 year old Christopher Banks of Nineveh for Possessing a Sexual Performance by a Child. A search warrant was executed on April 4th, Banks was found to be in possession of images consistent with child sexual exploitation. During the course of the investigation, it was revealed that 38 year old Mark Banks of Nineveh sexually abused a dairy cow while employed at a farm in the town of Colesville. Banks was charged with Sexual Misconduct, both were issued appearance tickets to the Colesville Town Court on April 24th.

Broome County Special Investigations Unit Task Force arrested 57 year old Bruce Hines of the town of Union after they executed a search warrant Thursday, Hines resisted officers and had to be detained after a brief struggle. Officers confiscated Methamphetamine, Fentanyl, Digital Scales, Packaging Material and $304 in cash, Hines was charged with multiple Counts of Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance and 2 Counts Criminally Using Drug Paraphernalia, plus Obstructing Governmental Administration & Resisting Arrest, he was arraigned and remanded to the Broome County Correctional Facility.

The Otsego County Solid Waste Department Plastic Film Recycling Challenge ends today. Participating schools collected film plastics such as Grocery Bags, Bread bags, Bubble wrap, The winner of the each division will receive an ice cream social event soon, last year over 6 tons of the plastics were diverted out of the waste stream in otsego county.

Utica University has announced its commencement speaker for the undergraduate ceremony in 2025 will be Hamdi Ulukaya, the founder and CEO of Chobani, Ulukaya will receive the honorary degree of Doctor of Humane Letters from Utica University, he emigrated from his native Turkey in 1994 to the US, he purchased a closed factory in Edmeston in 2007 with a small business loan, Chobani became he biggest seller of Greek Yogurt in the world by 2012. The undergraduate ceremony is set for May 9th at The Adirondack Bank Center at the Utica Memorial Auditorium.

P.M. NEWS MONDAY 2-3-25

Governor Kathy Hochul signed legislation to enable providers who prescribe medications used to perform abortions to request that the dispensing pharmacy print the name of their practice on prescription labels instead of their personal name, she commented today in Albany:

(Hochul 2-3-25)

The law follows a grand jury indictment in Louisiana against New York Doctor Margaret Carpenter for allegedly prescribing abortion pills online to a pregnant minor.

The State DEC announced Burn bans will be in effect again this year, from March 16th Until May 14, residents may not burn brush due to the continued increased risk of wildfires. DEC Officials report that Open burning of debris is the single-largest cause of spring wildfires in New York State, this year's burn ban follows unprecedented wildfires in the Catskills late last year, along with a prolonged dry weather pattern and a fairly mild winter in a large portion of the state, there are a few exception, those can be found at dec.ny.gov.

The 2025 Regional Spelling Bee Champion was won Saturday by Margot Fieni of the Oneonta City School District. Margot earned the title in the 16th round by correctly spelling "Burmese." she will have the chance to travel to National Harbor, Maryland in late May to compete against more than 200 other spellers from around the country and the world at the 100th Annual Scripps National Spelling Bee.

The Otsego County Sheriff’s Office is looking for New Recruits and Experienced Police Officers, applications are being accepted now for Deputy Sheriff and Correction Officer positions at otsegocounty.com/departments.

A.M. NEWS MONDAY 2-3-25

The US Northern District Court of New York's Asset Recovery Unit collected $39,262,324 in civil, criminal and forfeiture actions in Fiscal Year 2024. $14,085,025 was collected in criminal actions, $15,874,944 was collected in civil actions, and $9,302,354 was collected in asset forfeiture actions. The Northern District of New York also worked with other U.S. Attorney’s Offices and the Department of Justice to collect an additional $18,995,733 in cases pursued jointly by these offices.

32 year old Nishan Iglesias of Endicott is facing multiple felonies after fentanyl and a ghost gun were recovered during an investigation by the Broome County Special Investigations Unit Task Force last Thursday. Officers seized Fentanyl, A Digital Scale, A loaded Ghost Gun & $296.00 in US Currency, he was charged with Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance, Criminal Possession of a Firearm & Criminally Using Drug Paraphernalia among other charges.

WCDO Sports Director Nate Lull traveled to Binghamton on Saturday to cover the Division-1 Binghamton University Women's Basketball team hosting U-Albany. Hancock alumna Laycee Drake plays for Albany and always has great support from local fans when her team plays close to home. Nate caught up with Laycee after the game to ask her what it's like to play in front of family and friends:

Laycee 1

Laycee transferred to U-Albany this year after playing 3 years at a Division-1 U-M-B-C college near Baltimore, Maryland. Her Albany team is currently 18 and 4 this season and she is really enjoying the success of her new program:

Laycee 2

U-Albany defeated Binghamton 65-54 on Saturday. For more information on Laycee and her team you can visit u albany sports dot com

P.M. NEWS MONDAY 11-18-24

Lambrecht Auction in Sidney held their 2nd Annual Sidney EMS Charity event Saturday at their Sidney Location on Delaware Avenue. Jared Lambrecht told WCDO News this afternoon that they raised $50,800 for the Sidney Emergency Squad, that is in need of a new fully loaded ambulance, which costs about $250,000. Last year they raised $18,000 in their 1st charity auction effort for the Emergency squad.

Chenango County Sheriff's Office arrested 38 year old Michael VanDerWeert of Guilford & 47 year old Dawn Cavanaugh of North Carolina, for Burglary, Petty Larceny, Criminal Mischief and Conspiracy. Deputies responded to a burglary complaint at a business in the Town of Norwich, where someone broke into the building and stole multiple items. The vehicle used in the burglary was spotted at a business in the Village of Oxford, VanDerWeert and Cavanaugh were arrested and transported to the Chenango County Sheriff’s Office where they were released on appearance tickets to appear in the Town of Norwich Court at a later date.

Delaware County Sheriff’s Deputies responded Saturday to an ATV crash near Fuller Hollow Road in the Town of Hamden. Prior to Deputies’ arrival, Delaware County 911 reported that a victim had been privately transported to Delaware Valley Hospital in the Village of Walton with a second victim still on scene. Deputies located the 2nd victim, an 11-year-old male, at a residence, who was transported to Albany Medical Center by Life Net for non-life-threatening injuries. The 1st Victim was a 13-year-old female who was pronounced deceased at the Delaware Valley Hospital, due to injuries sustained from the crash.

Local sales tax collections in New York state increased by 2.3% in October according to State Comptroller Tom DiNapoli. Local collections totaled $1.84 billion for the month, up $41 million from the previous October, County and city collections outside of New York City increased by only .4%, 36 of 57 counties experienced year-over-year increases.

The Bainbridge Chamber of Commerce will hold their next meeting tomorrow morning in Bainbridge. The meeting will begin at 7:30 am at the back of Bob's Diner, Chamber members are urged to attend.

A.M. NEWS MONDAY 11-18-24

The FEMA authorized the use of federal funds to assist in combating the Catskills Wildfires, The Grant Declaration will allow for funding to help cover costs associated with responding to the Jennings Creek/Sterling State Park wildfire and protecting those in its path. Statewide there were 13 wildfires reported Sunday, encompassing more than 5,000 acres, the state wide burn ban remains in effect.

State Police at Troop C in Sidney announced that 24 people were charged with DWI, from the period of November 1st through November 12th. State Police will continue with DWI patrols, with increased efforts during the upcoming Thanksgiving & Christmas Holiday seasons.

Firefighters from Sidney Center & surrounding departments responded to the report of a structure fire late Sunday morning at 1129 Vandervoort Hill Road. The fire was contained to the basement and was quickly extinguished, no injuries were reported.

U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand will join elected officials and educators to encourage Binghamton University students to apply to the DoD Cyber Service Academy scholarship program, which provides full college tuition in return for public service in the Department of Defense or the Intelligence Community. Successful applicants will serve one year in the DoD or the IC as a civilian employee for each year of their scholarship. Gillibrand's event begins at 3:00 this afternoon at the Binghamton University Innovative Technologies Complex at 85 Murray Hill Road in Vestal.

UHS Chenango Memorial Hospital Auxiliary will launch “Be the Light,” to illuminate Newton House on Broad Street in Norwich. With a suggested donation of $20, community members can purchase a light that celebrates or memorializes a loved one. Names of honorees will be displayed at CMH throughout December. Proceeds will benefit the Auxiliary’s efforts to support patient services at CMH, the lighting ceremony and reception on Tuesday, December 3rd at 5:30pm at Newton House. For more information, call 607-337-4151.

Commerce Chenango's Thanksgiving Luncheon will be held Today at 11:00 AM at Saint Bart's in Norwich, more information is available at Commercechenango.com

P.M. NEWS THURSDAY 10-3-24

19 year old Benjamin Wheeler of Norwich pleaded guilty in federal court to possession of an unregistered short-barreled rifle, Wheeler admitted that on August 6, 2024, he knowingly possessed a “Spikes Tactical” AR-15 style rifle at his apartment in Norwich, New York, The firearm was not registered to Wheeler, Sentencing for his conviction for possession of an unregistered short-barreled rifle is scheduled for February 12, 2025, in Utica, he faces a maximum sentence of up to 10-years in prison, a fine of up to $250,000.00, and a term of supervised release of up to 3 years.

Otsego County Sheriff's Office arrested 40 year old Whitney Bachanas of Milford on 3 counts of Aggravated Animal Cruelty, following a recent animal abuse investigation. Bachanas was charged following an investigation in collaboration with Susquehanna SPCA, Cornell University Veterinary Hospital and Upstate Veterinary Specialties, she was originally charged with multiple counts of animal cruelty in September, and has been additionally charged with 3 counts of Aggravated Animal Cruelty, she was issued an appearance ticket for town of Milford Court.

Local Efforts are underway to collect a variety dry goods and ship them in Tractor Trailers to Boone North Carolina, just East of the hard his City of Asheville, which had massive amounts of destruction from Hurricane Helene, Jeff Dean is a Trucker from Bainbridge helping to organize the local collection effort:

(Jeff Dean 10-4-24)

Dean Said that their trailer will be behind Bob's Diner in Bainbridge starting Saturday through Friday October 11th, and then they will head south with the donations.

State Police held a graduation ceremony today for the Canine Handler Basic School. The ceremony was held at the State Police Academy in Albany. A total of 12 canine teams graduated, The canines and their handlers underwent 20 weeks of training at the New York State Police Canine Training Facility located in Cooperstown, In Troop C, Trooper Shane Jones, Canine Hedges were part of the Graduating class, Canine Hedges is named after Trooper Richard L. Hedges, who was killed in a traffic accident while on duty in 1942.

A.M. NEWS Thursday 10-3-24

On September 26, 2024, the Broome County Special Investigations Unit Task Force executed a search warrant in the Town of Union. 43 year old Steven Whritenour of Endicott, was present during the execution of the warrant. During the search, Officers seized Methamphetamine, Fentanyl, 219 pills of s Controlled Substances, plus a Scale, packaging and cutting agent used to distribute narcotics & $170 of cash, Whritenour was charged with multiple counts of Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance, 5 Counts of Criminally Using Drug Paraphernalia, he was transported to Central Arraignment and was remanded to the Broome County Correctional Facility.

Hospice & Palliative Care of Chenango County will have their annual Celebrity Dinner today at the Canasawacta Country Club in Norwich, Spokesperson Sarah Greene Explains:

(Sarah Green 10-3-24)

More information about Hospice programs can be found at chenangohospice.org.

Congressman Marc Molinaro's constituent service team will hold mobile office hours from 11:00am to 1:00pm today, at the Village of Afton Community Center from 12:00pm to 2:00pm & at the Delaware County Chamber of Commerce Meeting Room. Constituents will be able to connect with representatives from Rep. Molinaro's office to share comments and resolve issues they are having with federal agencies.

Commerce Chenango Announced recently that Unison has been selected as the Manufacturer of the year. A Manufacturing Appreciation Lunch will be held today starting at 11:30 at Lewis' Restaurant in Sherburne.

P.M. NEWS THURSDAY 2-2-23

U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand discussed her dairy priorities for the upcoming 2023 Farm Bill negotiations. Gillibrand said she will reintroduce her Dairy Pricing Opportunity Act, to change Class I milk pricing by requiring the United States Department of Agriculture to hold national hearings to review Federal Milk Marketing Orders.

(Gillibrand 2-2-23)

Senator Gillibrand will pushing Canada to uphold its dairy trade obligations as part of the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement, currently Canada is not allowing American Dairy Farmers to import their product into Canada.

U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development announced $1,162,978 to 2 local homeless housing and services organizations. In New York, HUD awarded a total of $2,042,599.  The Binghamton, Town of Union, Otsego, Chenango, Delaware, Cortland, and Tioga Counties Continuum of Care received $716,456 for Opportunities for Otsego and $446,522 for Catholic Charities of Chenango County.

It was a Basketball Homecoming for Hancock resident Laycee Drake at Binghamton University, Drake plays for The University of Maryland Baltimore County Retrievers, they took on the Lady Bearcats in Binghamton last night, WCDO Sports Director Nate Lull said that drake received tremendous local support last night:

(Nate Lull 2-2-23)

Drake graduated from Hancock on 2021 and finished her High School Career with over 1800 points, she scored 11 point last night, but Binghamton won the game 80-70.

Several area Fire Departments responded to a structure fire at 440 St. John Road in Afton early this morning. The fire was mainly confined to the 1st floor, there was smoke & heat damage to parts of the 2nd floor, 1 unconscious occupant was removed & was taken to Wilson Hospital. Firefighters from Afton, Harpursville, Greene, Bainbridge & Coventry Responded, the cause of the fire is under investigation.

A.M. NEWS THURSDAY 2-2-23

Governor Hochul unveiled a $227 Billion Dollar Executive Budget proposal yesterday in Albany. The Budget contains a $1 Billion Plan to Fix New York State's Mental Health Care, a pledge Not To Raise Income Taxes, the New York Housing Compact Will Build 800,000 New Homes, to Address Statewide Housing Shortage, a $337 Million Investment Aimed at Reducing Gun Violence, $5.5 Billion to Promote sustainable Energy, more information is available at budget.ny.gov.

On Saturday night, Delaware County Sheriff’s Deputies conducted a traffic stop in the Town of Colchester, Deputies identified the driver of the vehicle as 44-year-old Tyrece Williams of Syracuse, who's vehicle registration was suspended, due to an Insurance Lapse. Williams was charged with Operating a Motor Vehicle with a Suspended/Revoked Registration, Aggravated Unlicensed Operator, Failing to turn in license plates into DMV, among other charges, Williams was released and is scheduled to appear in the Town of Colchester Court at a later date.

About a dozen people were arrested at a protest at the Johnson City Wegman's Parking lot last night. People were protesting the police brutality cases of Tyre Nichols in Memphis & the Hamail Waddell keeling incident by Binghamton Police January 1st. Police from the Johnson City, Binghamton and Endicott Police departments, as well as the Broome County sheriffs Deputies and State Troopers responded.

P.M. NEWS TUESDAY 10-11-22

On Sunday, New York State extended the Executive Order to continue to maximize the resources available to protect New Yorkers against polio through vaccination. So far. Only 1 case of polio has been identified, but ongoing wastewater surveillance provides evidence of repeated polio-virus detections in sewage samples throughout the state. The latest wastewater results in Brooklyn & Queens, tested by CDC, found samples genetically linked to the case original case in Rockland County. More information is available at health.ny.gov/polio.

Delaware County Sheriff's Office arrested 40 year old Christopher Lacey of Downsville for Aggravated Unlicensed Operation of a Motor Vehicle, following an investigation into a motor vehicle accident on October 5th on River Road in the Town of Colchester. Deputies reported that the driver left the scene, Walton Police located Lacey, who's driving privileges were revoked for refusing to submit to a chemical test. Lacey was issued an appearance ticket for the Town of Colchester Court at a later date.

The Chenango County Historical Society announced a new membership program with streamlined categories, expanded core benefits, and newly created offerings. Historical Society Director Jessica Moquin explains:

(Jessica Moquin 10-11-22)

The museum’s current seasonal hours are Wednesday through Saturday, from 10 am. to 4 pm. For more information, call (607) 334-9227 or visit www.ChenangoHistorical.org.

Delaware County Sheriff Craig DuMond will continue with the "Coffee With The Sheriff's Office" tomorrow morning in Sidney, he invited area residents to come & talk with members of the Sheriff's Office:

(Sheriff DuMond 10-12-22)

Sheriff DuMond will be at the Trackside Diner on Main Street in Sidney from 9:30 to 10:30 this morning, the next event will be October 19th at the Hancock McDonald's.

The Sidney Elks Lodge will host Veteran's Information & Services Day on November 2nd, at the lodge on River Street in Sidney. A variety of services will be offered, reservations are encouraged at 563-2175.

A.M. NEWS TUESDAY 10-11-22

An American Red Cross blood drive will be conducted today in Oneonta from 11:30 AM to 5:30 PM, on the State University of Oneonta campus at 101 C Alumni Hall, Appointments can be made at the Red Cross Blood Donor App, visiting RedCrossBlood.org or by calling 1-800-RED CROSS.

The 2022 New York State Fallen Firefighters Memorial Ceremony will honor 11 firefighters who gave their lives in the line of duty. The Memorial was dedicated in 1998, to honor fallen firefighters every year in October, it also pays tribute to the more than 100,000 New York State active firefighters who risk their lives every day to protect New Yorkers. Lieutenant Governor Antonio Delgado will deliver remarks at this mornings memorial, starting at 11:00 AM in Albany.

P.M. NEWS WEDNESDAY 1-5-22

Governor Kathy Hochul today delivered her 1st "State of The State" address in Albany, she outlined what her administration plans to do this year:

(Hochul 1-5-22)

The 1st proposal submitted to the legislation calls for Term Limits for Governor, Lieutenant Governor Attorney General & State Comptroller, Hochul also called for a new tougher ethics mechanism to keep lawmakers & state leaders accountable, after years of corruption in Albany.

The State Health Department continues to report surging COVID cases from the Omicron Variant. On Monday over 236,000 New Yorkers were tested, with over 53,000 positive, for a positivity rate of 22.5%. Patient Hospitalizations surged by almost 850 to 10,411, the number in ICU beds went up to just over 1300, 625 of them are on Ventilators, there were 99 deaths in nursing homes & hospitals from COVID Monday.

At the Tuesday Night General Clinton Canoe Regatta meeting, preliminary discussions were held regarding moving the 70 mile races from Monday to Sunday, with the Sundays races moved to Saturday and run before the scout races & there will be a C4 Pro Class this year, Regatta Chairman John Harmon told WCDO News about the proposal:

(John Harmon 1-5-22)

Harmon said that the Regatta would end Sunday night with no activities on Monday at General Clinton Park in Bainbridge, the final decision on moving the race will be made at our February 1st meeting after approval from the Bainbridge Chamber of Commerce.

Delaware County Sheriff’s Deputies arrested 24-year-old Joseph Belmar of Bronx, Tuesday for 1 count of Promoting Prison Contraband. An investigation conducted by members of the Delaware County Sheriff’s Corrections, Road Patrol, and Criminal Investigations Division determined that Belmar, a Federal inmate currently boarded at the Delaware County Correctional Facility, attempted to introduce a quantity of prescription medication that he was not authorized to possess into that facility. Belmar was issued an appearance ticket returnable to the Town of Delhi Court and remains incarcerated on the unrelated Federal charges.

Chenango County Heath Department continues to see a rapid increase of COVID 19 cases attributed to the Omicron Variant & low vaccination rates. The county has 546 active cases, 721 quarantined, 12 hospitalized and they have had 6931 confirmed cases since the pandemic began. Officials continue to encourage people to get vaccinated, locations of clinics can be found at co.chenango.ny.us or covid19vaccine.health.ny.gov.

A.M. NEWS WEDNESDAY 1-5-22

Governor Kathy Hochul today announced 10 SUNY campus-based COVID-19 test sites will open beginning Thursday with a 2nd round of sites slated to open next week. COVID testing sites will begin at Binghamton University Community Testing Site, Friday from 8:30 AM to 4:00 PM & the SUNY Oneonta Community Testing Site at the Emergency Services Building, from 8:30 AM to 4:00 PM Appointments can be scheduled at app.squarespacescheduling.com. Each site will maintain capacity for approximately 225 appointments per day and up to 50 walk-ins.

Delaware County Public Health announced a Portal to report at-home positive covid-19 tests, at delcony.us/coronavirus/ReportTest and on delawarecountypublichealth.com. The portal asks for basic demographic information and test kit information. Most home tests give results in about 15 minutes. If you are positive isolate yourself. If you are infectious, you’ll want to reduce the risk of passing it on to someone else. Positive individuals should let close contacts about their potential exposure risk.

State Police are looking to identify a man & woman who, on December 31, shortly before 3:00 pm., took a pick-up truck without the owner’s permission, from the Norwich Walmart’s parking lot near the Garden Center. Troopers located the truck on January 2 in the town of McDonough, it appears that truck was abandoned after it ran out of gas. Anyone with information should contact State Police at (607) 334-3296, pictures of the suspects are located at the State Police Troop C website.

The next meeting of the Sidney Chamber of Commerce will be held this morning. The meeting will begin at 8:00 AM at Trackside Dining on Main Street, chamber members & directors are urged to attend.

P.M. NEWS TUESDAY 1-4-22

Governor Kathy Hochul today announced a partnership with SUNY and Syracuse University in which 10 new testing sites will be opening on State University of New York campuses across the state and at Syracuse University the week of Jan. 3. More campus sites will open in the coming weeks as the project expands. SUNY testing sites to open later this week include Binghamton University & SUNY Oneonta.

Albany County District Attorney David Soares is dropping a criminal charge against former Governor Andrew Cuomo for allegedly fondling an aide in Albany last year. Soares' decision comes just before Cuomo was due in court this week to answer to the misdemeanor charge, The Albany DA's decision follows other jurisdiction's prosecutors dropping similar charges against Cuomo. The Albany County charges were filed by the Sheriff's Office last October, Cuomo has denied those specific allegations.

The Otsego County Health Department reported 81 new COVID 19 cases on Monday, with 7 hospitalized 398 active cases, and a 12% seven day rolling average positivity rate. Officials remind Otsego County Residents to adhere to the Mask Mandates now in effect until February to try to stop the spread of the highly contagious Omicron Variant.

The Otsego County Department of Motor Vehicles announced that their office will be closed this week & will re-open on Monday January 10th. The office was closed due to COVID 19 issues among the DMV staff, residents can still perform transactions at dmv.ny.gov.

AM NEWS TUESDAY 1-4-22

State Police are seeking the public’s assistance in obtaining information about a burglary that occurred in the town of Hartwick, between the Sunday evening & Monday Morning. The suspect unlawfully entered a residence on Poplar Avenue and caused physical injury to an elderly victim, who was transported to Bassett Hospital and is in stable condition. Anyone with information is asked to contact State Police at (607)561-7400.

Governor Kathy Hochul has announced a plan to institute term limits for the Governor, Lieutenant Governor, Attorney General, and Comptroller, in the 2022 State of the State Wednesday. Hochul said she will introduce a constitutional amendment to set limits of 2 consecutive terms for those statewide elected officials, & she will propose legislation to impose a ban on earned outside income for those elected officials, with an exception for academic positions that receive ethics board approval. The 2022 State of the State Address will be held in the New York State Assembly Chamber on Wednesday, January 5.

Delaware County Public Health reported 279 new positive cases of COVID 19 in their latest report covering Thursday through Monday, the positivity rate was up to 15.3%. Delaware County has 462 positive cases with 375 quarantined, there have been 85 deaths from the virus during the pandemic.

Governor Kathy Hochul and Attorney General Letitia James announced that New York, Connecticut, Maryland, and New Jersey filed a petition to the U.S. Supreme Court to continue their lawsuit against the federal government for the Trump Administrations cap on the deduction for state and local taxes, known as SALT. The petition asks the Supreme Court to review an October 2021 ruling by the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Second Circuit that upheld the district court's rejection of the states' suit, which argues that the SALT cap was a politically motivated bid by the former federal administration to interfere with the policy choices of Democratic led states.

In The City of Norwich, Residents will be voting for a new Mayor, as Shawn Sastri has declined to seek re-election, Republican candidate Brian Doliver told WCDO News that the drug problem & infrastructure are his top p[priorities if elected:

(Brian Doliver 11-2-21)

Democratic Candidate John Quattrocchi told WCDO News that as a lifelong Norwich resident, change is needed to grow the city:

(John Quattrocchi 11-2-21)

Voting will be held until 9:00 PM.

In the City of Oneonta, Residents will be voting for a new Mayor, as long time Mayor Gary Herzig decided to not seek re-election, Democratic Candidate Mark Drnek told WCDO news that his vision is to add people & jobs to Oneonta:

(Mark Drnek 11-2-21)

Republican Candidate Len Carson told WCDO News that he feels his public service & experience will help him as Mayor:

(Len Carson 11-2-21)

Both Drnek & Carson have been serving as Oneonta City Aldermen, voting will be until 9:00 PM.

Former Assembly Republican Minority Leader Brian Kolb pleaded guilty Monday to driving while ability impaired, relating to an incident on New Year's Eve 2019 in Ontario County. Police reported that Kolb was behind the wheel when he crashed his state-issued vehicle went into a ditch, he blamed the crash on his wife. Kolb stepped down from the position of Assembly Minority Leader days later, he did not seek re-election to the Assembly in November 2020.

On Wednesday, October 27th, Delaware County Sheriff’s Deputies responded to a report of a male subject acting irrational and driving at an extremely high rate of speed on State Highway 30 in the Middletown/Andes area. Responding Deputies located 29-year old James Lor of Margaretville, who is accused of operating the vehicle while in an intoxicated condition. Lor’s Driver’s license was revoked due to numerous previous DWI related suspensions. Lor was also found to be in possession of a small quantity of Cocaine. Lor was charged with Felony DWI, Aggravated Unlicensed Operation of a Motor Vehicle, Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance, along with several other charges, Lor was arraigned in the Town of Delhi Court and was released on his own recognizance, pending court action at the Town of Middletown Court at a later date.

A.M. NEWS TUESDAY 11-2-21

State Police, the Delhi Police Department, and the State University Police at Delhi responded to a fight Sunday at a large college party off campus on Scotch Mountain Road in Delhi. One person sustained stab wounds and was ultimately transported to Albany Medical Center for treatment. 3 others were treated at a local hospital for non-life-threatening injuries. The incident is still under investigation but appears to be an isolated incident. Anyone who may have witnessed the altercation is asked to call New York State Police at (607)432-3934.

Delaware County Public Health reported 1 more COVID 19 death in their report covering last Thursday & Friday, bringing their total to 64. The County had a positivity rate of 4.86%, more than twice the state average, they had 39 new cases, 108 active cases & 6 hospitalized and 125 quarantined. 52.1% of eligible Delaware County Residents were vaccinated against COVID 19.

UHS Chenango Memorial Hospital will be hosting two upcoming vaccination clinics for eligible individuals looking to receive a booster or third dose of the Moderna COVID-19 vaccine. The clinics will be held from 8 am. to 2 pm. on both Saturday, November 6 and Saturday, November 13 in UHS Cardiology Norwich, located on the hospital’s first floor. For more information on vaccine availability in the Southern Tier, visit SouthernTierVax.org.

16 citations were issued during an “Operation Hard Hat” detail in Broome County. On October 28, 2021, Troopers monitored traffic in the active work zone on State Route 17 east to Interstate 81 north in the city of Binghamton. Road crews were replacing concrete pavement. During the detail, a trooper blends in with the workers and watches for risky and unsafe behavior. 5 Tickets were issued for speeding, 4 for cellphone use while driving, 2 for violating seat belt laws & 5 for other assorted violations.

Local sales tax collections totaled $5.2 billion in the third quarter (July-September of 2021), up $861 million (20%) from the same period last year and continuing the trend of exceeding pre-pandemic levels, according to a report released today from State Comptroller Thomas P. DiNapoli. Statewide, every region saw solid growth in sales tax collections during the third quarter compared to the same period last year. Outside of New York City, the July-September period marked the fifth consecutive quarter that county and city sales tax receipts met or exceeded pre-pandemic levels. Statewide local sales tax collections in the third quarter of 2021 grew 8.6% ($409 million) over the pre-pandemic third quarter of 2019.

P.M. NEWS MONDAY 8-30-21

Commerce Chenango will hold their annual Luncheon at Hidden Springs Brewhouse on September 9th in Norwich, Commerce Chenango President & CEO Kerri Green explains:

(Kerri Green 8-30-21)

Green said that the "Spirit of Chenango" award will go to long time area educator Grayson Stevens, the Excellence in Small Business Award goes to Build Block Building systems; the manufacturer of the year is Chenango Valley Technologies & Lamb's Quarters is the Non-Profit Agency of the Year.

The United Way of Delaware and Otsego Counties’ fall funding process has opened on its website, unitedwaydo.org; the 1-year funding application process is open to any 501 C-3 nonprofit organization serving Delaware or Otsego County families and addressing the issues of income (basic needs or financial stability), education or health in our community.   The due date for all Delaware and Otsego County applications is November 15th, Applications will be reviewed, and funding decisions will be announced in late February, 2022. More information is available at 334-8815, or by email to: cuwelizabeth@chenangouw.org.

The Sidney Central School District announced a plan for the school year that will include being in session 5 days per week for in-person learning for all grade levels. There will be no health screenings or temperature checks upon entering the building, but Face coverings will be required starting today, Sidney Superintendent Eben Bullock told WCDO News that the requirements are in line with Governor Hochul's recommendations, plus the district has an added bonus:

(Eben Bullock 8-30-21)

Bullock said that Face coverings for all students and staff are also required on district transportation, in hallways, entrances, exits, lobbies, restrooms & in all other congregate settings.  There will be no face coverings required while outside, Physical Distancing of at least 3 feet between students will exist in the classroom setting, whenever possible.  More information is available at 561-7700.

NYSEG officials determined that a raccoon made its way into a substation in Broome County last night, leaving about 10,000 Broome County Area residents without power.  NYSEG officials said that power was restored in about an hour.

Lawmakers could be called back to Albany as early as this Wednesday for a Special Session.  Lawmakers are expected to extend the eviction moratorium until next January, to alleviate financial pressure on both renters and owners due to the COVID 19 pandemic.

A.M. NEWS MONDAY 8-30-21

State Police arrested 32 year old Phillip Cosilmon of Preston for Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance following a traffic stop in the village of Greene and the execution of a search warrant at his residence. State Police seized crystal methamphetamine, suboxone strips, cocaine, LSD, heroin, prescription pills & a large quantity of Cash, multiple firearms which included 4 assault rifles, a large quantity of ammunition and various stolen items.   Cosilmon was arraigned in the Coventry Town Court and was remanded to the Chenango County Jail on $150,000 bail.

State Police 35 year old Jovonne Best of Bainbridge for 2 counts of Aggravated Assault against a Police Officer with a Deadly Weapon, Reckless Endangerment, Criminal Mischief, Driving While Impaired by Drugs and Obstructing Governmental Administration.   Officers responded to a report of a violation of an order of protection in the town of Bainbridge, a trooper was interviewing Best when she ran into the garage and got into a vehicle, accelerated in reverse and nearly struck the Investigator, struck the garage door frame, the debris struck the trooper, she also struck the State Police vehicle, she was pursued by Police into a cornfield, where she fled on foot & was arrested. Best was arraigned at the Bainbridge Town Court where she was remanded to the Chenango County Jail on $25,000 cash bail or $50,000 property bond.

Otsego County Sheriff's Office arrested 33 year old Casey Smith of the Town of Butternuts for Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance, after deputies responded to assist State Parole Officers with a home visit where Smith is accused of possessing a large amount of narcotics, he was arraigned in Otsego County Centralized Arraignment and released on his own recognizance, he was then sent to the Otsego County Correctional Facility on a parole warrant. He is scheduled to appear in the Town of Butternuts Court at a later date.

State Police responded to a report of a child involved in an ATV rollover accident Friday in the town of Decatur.  A 7-year-old boy who was operating the ATV when it rolled over, He was airlifted to Albany Medical Center where he succumbed to his injuries.  The accident remains under investigation, no signs of foul play were observed by Investigators on scene.

After a year of a high number of COVID cases on the State University Campus in Oneonta, Students are back on campus attending classes in person, and there is a high percentage of vaccinated students already, SUNY Oneonta spokesperson Kim MacLeod explains:

(Kim MacLeod 8-30-21)

Students in the SUNY System have a late September deadline to get vaccinated, or they could be unregistered from their courses.

The Funeral for State Trooper James Monda will be held this morning at 10:00 AM, in his hometown of Schenectady, at the St. John the Evangelist Church.  Trooper Monda’s death was ruled as an accidental drowning during a marine detail on the Great Sacandaga Lake last week, Law Enforcement officials from around the state & Governor Kathy Hochul will attend.

P.M. NEWS Friday 7-30-21

State Police and local law enforcement will be increasing patrols to target speeding from tomorrow through August 8th.  Statistics from the Institute for Traffic Safety Management and Research at the University at Albany's reported that unsafe speed was a contributing factor in 314 fatal crashes in 2020, compared to 230 fatal crashes in 2019, which was a 36% increase. The 314 fatal crashes last year resulted in 365 deaths including drivers, bicyclists, and pedestrians.  The enforcement campaign is supported by the Governor's Traffic Safety Committee, during last year's Speed Awareness Week; law enforcement throughout the state issued 21,428 tickets for speeding and 30,273 tickets for other vehicle and traffic law violations, such as impaired and distracted driving.

Delaware County Sheriff Craig DuMond was presented with a Certificate of Accreditation for the Sheriff’s Corrections Division at a meeting of the Delaware County Board of Supervisors in Delhi on Wednesday.  The Accreditation of the Corrections Division of the Sheriff’s Office finalizes the full and complete accreditation throughout all Divisions of the Sheriff’s Office; the most current accreditation stated that the corrections facility met or exceeded all 166 components for accreditation.

State Senator Peter Oberacker today announced legislation he sponsored designating baseball as New York's official state sport has been signed into law by Governor Cuomo.    This bill was proposed by a Cooperstown Elementary School 4th grade class; Cooperstown is the home of the Baseball Hall of Fame and is believed to be the birthplace of the sport.  New York State has previously designated an official gemstone, fossil, shell, bush, salt water fish and reptile.

Governor Cuomo signed legislation designating a portion of State Route 13 in Madison County as the "Assemblyman William 'Bill' Magee Memorial Highway."  Magee served in the state Assembly from 1990 until 2018, much of that tenure, he served as the Chairman of the Assembly Agriculture Committee, he passed away on December 24, 2020, he was 81.

A.M. NEWS FRIDAY 7-30-21

This week Delaware County Public Health reported 21 new cases of COVID 19; previously there have been a total of 8 breakthrough infections since June 1st.  Delaware County has 26 active cases, 2 Hospitalized & 36 quarantined, officials said that they have not received information from the state Department of Health that the Delta Variant is present in Delaware County, which is classified by the CDC as more likely to spread, cause reinfection or cause severe illness, as well as reduce vaccine effectiveness.  Currently only 47% of Delaware County residents are fully vaccinated for COVID-19, Unvaccinated individuals should get vaccinated and continue to wear a mask until they are fully vaccinated.

The American Red Cross continues to experience a severe blood shortage and donors of all blood types, especially type O.  Donors can Schedule an appointment by using the Red Cross Blood Donor App, visiting RedCrossBlood.org, calling 1-800-RED CROSS or enabling the Blood Donor Skill on any Alexa Echo device.  A blood drive is being held today from 9:00 AM to 2:00 PM at the Elm Park Methodist Church, 401 Chestnut Street in Oneonta.

Chenango County Public Health reminds area residents of upcoming COVID 19 Vaccination opportunities.  Today, a Johnson & Johnson one dose clinic is available at the Health Department, on SATURDAY a 1st dose Pfizer clinic for those 12 years of age & older will be at the former Label Shopper Store, in the South Plaza in Norwich from 10:00 AM to 12:00 Noon, register for this clinic at the Chenango County Public Health vaccine page on their website.  The Chenango County Health Department now has COVID-19 vaccinations on August 6th, 13th, 20 & 27th; more information is available at 337-1660.

P.M. NEWS MONDAY 7-26-21

The Broome County Special Investigations Unit Task Force executed a search warrant Friday in Windsor, officer seized Methamphetamines, Fentanyl, weapons & drug paraphernalia.  Police arrested Shawn McCabe of Windsor on a variety of Weapons & Drug Charges, he was being held at the Broome County Sheriff’s Correctional Facility pending arraignment.

Norwich city police are looking for a suspect in a stabbing in downtown Norwich Sunday evening.  Norwich Police said that a pedestrian was walking near American Avenue in downtown Norwich at about 5:25 PM, & was stabbed several times in the neck & chest during the robbery near American Avenue.  The victim was taken to Wilson Memorial Hospital in Johnson City; Norwich Police officers are asking anyone with information about the attack to call them at 336-8477.  The Suspect is described as a White Male with a red backpack, wearing a Baseball cap, line at 607-336-8477.

Governor Cuomo today announced a new streamlined application process for the rent relief program to help eliminate potential barriers to funding. The new process relaxes documentation standards for both tenants and landlords and implements a streamlined process for submission of arrears documentation for multi-tenant landlords effective Tuesday.   The State Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance will administer the program.

Bainbridge Fire Fighters responded to a car fire at the Mirabito's Saturday afternoon.  Firefighters found a Kia from North Carolina fully involved, the occupants were out of the vehicle & no injuries were reported.

The State HEAP Cooling Assistance Program, which provides up to an $800 benefit to purchase and install an air conditioner or a fan, will be open until August 31st.   To apply, households must contact their local social services Department; more information is available at otda.ny.gov/programs/heap/.

A.M. NEWS Monday 7-26-21

State Police arrested 29 year old Anthony Masi of Sidney for Criminal Possession of Stolen Property.  Masi was the driver of a motorcycle that crashed into an SUV near the intersection of State Highway 28 and the Lettis Highway on July 4th in Oneonta,  Masi was taken to Albany Medical Center, the other driver was not injured.  An investigation determined that the motorcycle was stolen.  Masi was charged by the Village of Sidney Police on July 19, he was turned over to the State Police. Masi was transported to Otsego County Central Arraignment and Processing.  He was remanded to the Otsego County Jail on $10,000 cash or $20,000 property bond.

Otsego County Sheriff's Office responded to a commercial bus fire earlierSaturday on State Route 28 in the Town of Otsego.  The bus passengers were heading to a wedding when the fire broke out.  No injuries are reported, the bus suffered substantial damage and was towed from the scene.  The Cooperstown and Hartwick Seminary Fire Departments responded, with Assistance by the Cooperstown Police Department and the State Police.

State Police responded to a report of a fatal skydiving incident in the area of County Highway 34 in the town of Westford.   A preliminary investigation revealed that 59 year old Karen Bernard of Wildwood, Florida jumped out of a plane to skydive when it appears she had a malfunction with her parachute,  the investigation continues.

State Police arrested 21 year old Noah Bascom of Hamilton for 3rd degree Assault and Overdriving, Torturing and injuring an Animal.  Bascom allegedly repeatedly struck a small dog with a wooden dowel.  He was also accused of striking a person in the face, causing injury.  The victim was taken to Community Hospital by a third party and received treatment.   Bascom was located at his residence in Hamilton and arrested.  He was released on an appearance ticket to the Earlville Village Court on August 11th.

Governor Cuomo announced that 4 mass vaccination sites will cease operations as part of the ongoing downscaling that will allow the State to focus on localized vaccination efforts. As part of the downscaling, the site at Binghamton University will cease operations following vaccinations TODAY.

The Bainbridge Fire Department responded to State Highway 7 for the report of a Single Engine Plane Crash last night.  The plane was tangled up in wires, & the person was able to get out of the plane. More information is expected to be released later today.

P.M. NEWS TUESDAY 7-20-21

Sidney Police Department, with the assistance of the State Police, arrested 29 year old Anthony Masi of Sidney on a number of charges.  Masi is accused of failing to comply with an officer attempting to conduct a traffic stop on July 4th; Sidney Police followed Masi into the Town of Sidney for several miles before ending the pursuit, which eventually ended with Masi crashing his stolen motorcycle into an SUV in Oneonta.  Masi was charged by Sidney Police with criminal possession of stolen property, Unauthorized use of motor vehicle, Unlawfully fleeing a police officer in a motor vehicle, Reckless driving, Aggravated unlicensed operation, plus a number of other charges, Masi was arraigned in Village of Sidney Court, he was released on his own recognizance & he was turned over to State Police who took him into custody on an arrest warrant issued from another jurisdiction.

Chenango County Public Health announced their upcoming COVID 19 vaccine schedule.  On Wednesday, 2nd doses for homebound patients will be administered, on July 31st, a 1st dose Pfizer vaccine clinic will be held for 12 years of age and older at the former Label Shopper Store in the South Plaza in Norwich from 10:00 AM to 12:00 Noon.  Chenango County Health Department now has COVID-19 vaccinations in their clinics, appointments are requested at 337-1660, the clinics will be on July 23 & 30th for the J&J Vaccine, August 6th for the Moderna Vaccine & August 13th, 20th & 27th for the Pfizer Vaccine.

Governor Cuomo today announced that 4 mass vaccination sites will cease operations as part of the ongoing downscaling that will allow the State to focus on localized vaccination efforts. As part of the downscaling, the site at Binghamton University will cease operations following vaccinations on July 26.

Assemblyman Joe Angelino is urging voters to participate in an upcoming virtual hearing on legislative redistricting for the Southern Tier and Central New York on Monday, August 9 at 2:00 PM.  The input from these meetings will help the Independent Redistricting Commission in the redrawing of legislative and congressional district lines for 2022.  Those who wish to participate are encouraged to register at: nyirc.gov/meetings.

Starting Monday, August 16th, the Susquehanna SPCA monthly rabies clinics will be first come, first serve, at the new location on State Route 28 Cooperstown.  Pet owners are reminded to bring the pet's previous rabies certificate, so that the veterinarian can look at it to determine if your pet is eligible for a 3-year vaccine.  Rabies clinics will be held on August 16th, September 13th, October 4th, November 15th & December 13th, more information is available at 547-8111 ext. 111.

A.M. NEWS TUESDAY 7-20-21

The Otsego County Office of Emergency Services continues to assess damage to area roads from the flooding over the weekend, Acting Emergency Services Coordinator Victor Jones told WCDO News that some roads are open & passable, but still in rough shape, and they are looking to Albany for help:

(Victor Jones 7-20-21)

Jones said that State Route 51 from the Village of Morris, South near the Butternuts/Morris town line is inaccessible; State Route 51 at the bridge in front of the Gilbertsville Fire Department is down to 1 lane but is open to all traffic.  In the Town of Morris, previously closed roads are passable, In the Town of Pittsfield:  Cobb Road up until the section that runs into 42nd & Broad is open, but the extension from that intersection is not passable.  Hawks Road remains closed.   Otsego County Route 4 from State Route 23 in the Town of Morris to State Route 51 in the Village of Gilbertsville remains closed on the northern end, in the Town of Unadilla, damaged roads are passable.

The Otsego County Sheriff’s Office arrested 40-year-old Bradley Cook of Oneonta on a warrant from a sealed indictment, Cook is charged with 2 counts of criminal sexual act for allegedly having sexual contact with the child under the age of 11.  Cook was arraigned and was remanded to the Otsego County jail on $10,000 cash bail or $100,000 bond he returns to court August 13th.

The American Red Cross continues to experience a severe blood shortage and donors of all blood types, especially type O are urged to make an appointment, Blood drives are being held today from 1:00 to 6:00 PM at the Sidney Elks Lodge, or from 1:00 to 6:00 PM at the Foothills Performing Arts & Civic Center, 24 Market Street, in Oneonta.  Schedule an appointment by using the Red Cross Blood Donor App, visiting RedCrossBlood.org, calling 1-800-RED CROSS or enabling the Blood Donor Skill on any Alexa Echo device.

P.M. NEWS TUESDAY 1-19-21

Governor Cuomo released his Executive Budget Proposal today with a presentation in Albany.  The Governor said that he is looking at 2 scenarios from the incoming Biden administration of either 6 Billion dollars in Federal funding coupled with a reduction in state spending by 9 Billion, or 15 Billion dollars in federal aid to make up for lost 2020 revenue from COVID:

(Cuomo 1-19-21)

The Governor also said that they will include revenue adding components to the budget in the form of allowing sports betting & by legalizing marijuana.  The State has until April 1st to pass its budget for the new fiscal year.

Governor Cuomo reported today that New York's health care distribution sites have administered 79% of first COVID Vaccine doses received from the federal government, and 77% of first and second doses.  The Governor said that the Southern Tier was at 97% which was the highest rate in the state.  A new COVID-19 Vaccine Tracker Dashboard is available at ny.gov/vaccinetracker.

COVID 19 statistics have been released, on Monday; there were 9,236 Patient Hospitalizations Statewide with 1,614 Patients in the ICU; 1,049 Intubated, all were increases from Sunday's numbers.  Over 177,000 tests were conducted, with 12,512 positives, that was just over 7% of all tested, there were 167 deaths from the virus.

Otsego County Sheriff's Office arrested 21 year old Scott Sieger of Oneonta for Larceny and Criminal Possession of Stolen property, following an investigation into a missing credit card.  Sieger was issued an appearance ticket for Town of Oneonta Court at a later date.

The Delaware County Police Reform and Reinvention Collaborative committee held a virtual meeting on Monday, and it is available for viewing on the Delaware County YouTube channel.  The committee has created a follow-up survey for Delaware County residents that may be completed online at surveymonkey.com, it can also be printed from the Delaware County website and copies can be obtained from local Town Clerk’s offices. All surveys must be received by February 2nd; Responses to the survey are anonymous, and completely voluntary.

A.M. NEWS Tuesday 1-19-21

Governor Cuomo will unveil his executive budget proposal today, virtually from Albany.  The Presentation will begin at 11:30 at Governor.NY.Gov.

Members of Governor Cuomo’s Administration will Open State Vaccination Sites.  Today at 1:00 PM, Lieutenant Governor Kathy Hochul will open the State Vaccination Site at the Binghamton University Foundation, 10 Gannett Drive in Johnson City. More information is available through am-i-eligible.covid19vaccine.health.ny.gov.

Delaware County Public Health reported a 21st person has died of Covid-19 related complications.  The County reported 5 new COVID cases Monday with 123 active cases, 15 hospitalizations & 230 quarantined.

Otsego County Health Department reported 26 new cases of COVID Monday with 17 hospitalized & 205 Active cases.  Otsego County reports 363 positive cases since January 1st, there have been 4 deaths since January 1st.

The Bainbridge Chamber of Commerce will hold a General Membership Meeting This morning at 7:30 AM.  The meeting is being held in the back of Bob's Diner.

The annual General Clinton Canoe Regatta Kick off Meeting to start planning for this year's event will be held this evening.  The meeting begins at 7:00 pm at Galaxy Bowl in Bainbridge.

Governor Cuomo today announced that the State has over 149,000 cases of the Coronavirus; they have reported 6,268 deaths so far, with another record breaking amount on Tuesday of 779 deaths.

(Cuomo 4-8-20)

Cuomo said that the Number of those entering Hospitals & ICU beds is about 1/3 of the peak number from 10 days to 2 weeks ago; the number of recoveries continues to steadily increase.

Governor Cuomo today said that New Yorkers, who are unemployed because of the Coronavirus situation, will be receiving a $600 benefit, and their weekly benefits will be extended an additional 13 weeks to 39 weeks.

Chenango County Health officials announced Wednesday that they are now up to 53 confirmed Coronavirus cases.  7 people are hospitalized, 7 have recovered, 67 are in precautionary Quarantine, and 327 are in Mandatory quarantine.

The Otsego County Department of Health had 38 confirmed cases of the Coronavirus Wednesday, 4 are hospitalized, 9 have recovered & there has been 1 death.   113 people are in mandatory quarantine, 2 people on precautionary quarantine, 43 people have been released from quarantine.

Broome County had 88 confirmed cases of the Coronavirus Wednesday, 9 have recovered, there have been 6 deaths, 48 are in precautionary quarantine, and 161 are in mandatory quarantine.

Commerce Chenango will start a "Virtual Lunch" Webinar Series over the next 5 Thursdays on "Zoom" starting tomorrow, regarding Important Issues and Concerns to area businesses trying to navigate their way through this difficult time.  Commerce Chenango CEO Kerri Green explains:

(Kerri Green 4-8-20)

Green said that the virtual series is being offered free of charge and is open to the public. Participants are asked to support a local restaurant by ordering their to-go lunch prior to the webinar. To register, email "register@chenangony.org" or call 334-1402. An email confirmation with the invitation link for the webinar will be sent to the registrant 24 hours in advance of the webinar.

State Senator Jim Seward's office announced today that he was moved out of intensive care Unit at Albany Medical Tuesday night, where he is being treated for the Coronavirus, he is expected to begin to convalesce at home as soon as it is deemed appropriate.

The New York State Fair will be five days longer this year, if the fair isn't canceled due to the coronavirus pandemic.  The state budget includes a total of $5 million to extend the fair and continue repair and rehabilitation of the fair's facilities to allow for year-round operation of the fairgrounds.  The five-day extension will push the first day of the fair up to Friday, August 21.

The Coronavirus pandemic has thrown the Dairy industry, local Assemblyman Cliff Crouch explains:

(Crouch 4-8-20)

Cornell University economists predict that the Coronavirus could be even more devastating to the Dairy industry than the 2009 recession.

Delaware County meeting will continue today, by teleconferencing.  The Department of Public Works Committee will meet via conference call at 8:45 AM, The Delaware County Finance Committee will meet via conference call at 10:30 AM, and The Delaware County Board of Supervisors will hold its regular meeting at 1:00 p.m. by teleconference as part of the County's COVID-19 response plan.  All business conducted by the Board of Supervisors will be recorded for the public and a full transcript will be made available on the county’s webpage.

The Delaware County Board of Elections reported that registered voters will receive a mail check card shortly; however these cards were printed out before the dates of the Primaries were moved to June 23rd from the original April date, anyone with questions can contact the Board of Elections at 832-5321 or by email BOE.MOVE@co.delaware.ny.us

A few more cases of the
Coronavirus have been confirmed in some upstate counties today.  1 positive test was reported in Delaware
County this afternoon by Governor Cuomo, Positive test were confirmed for a
student at the University of Albany, a staff member at Union College in
Schenectady and 3 cases have now been confirmed in Saratoga County.    Governor Cuomo stated that the state would ban all
gatherings with 500 or more people to battle the coronavirus, the ban would
start at 5:00 PM Friday. The total number of confirmed cases in the state are
up to 328.

New
Yorkers are urged to call 1-800-697-1220 to report Price Gouging of certain
items like household cleaning supplies and hand sanitizer, following the
reports of the coronavirus in the state over the last week & a half.  The State has a complaint for online, along
with more information regarding potential price gouging at
dos.ny.gov/consumerprotection.

Hartwick
College announced their Coronavirus plans today.  Classes will continue on campus for the
remainder of this week, Hartwick faculty will continue spring 2020 instruction
through remote instruction only beginning March 23, there will be no in-person
instruction.  Students should remove all
instruction related materials and any belongings by 5:00 PM on Sunday March 22,
after that, students will not be permitted to return to campus until the
College resumes normal operations.
Effective March 20th at 5:00 PM, all campus-based activities, including
athletic competitions and training, are suspended until further notice.

Several
Fire companies as well as police agencies are on the scene of a structure fire
at 288 Ketchum Hill Road in Port Crane.  The
fire started earlier this afternoon, the home was recently purchased & was
going through renovations, it was not occupied at the time the fire broke
out.  WCDO News will have more details as
they become available.

The
Unadilla Chamber Of Commerce announced their award winners for 2020.  The Business of the Year will be awarded to
Covered Bridge Farm Market, The Good Neighbor Commitment to Community award
goes to Erin Insinga of Unadilla, who is the Director of the Delaware Valley
Humane Society, she commented about the recognition:

(Erin
Insinga 3-12-20)

The
Unadilla Chamber Annual dinner will be held on April 19th at 5:00 PM at the 1st
United Methodist Church in Unadilla.

State
officials are looking to add more census takers this year for the 2020 census
count.  States receive federal funding
based on the results of the census every 10 years,  related to health care, education, housing,
economic development and transportation, as well as congressional
representation in Washington. Those interested in a census job can get more
information at 2020 census.gov.

Governor
Cuomo announced that New York State will contract with 28 private labs to
increase testing capacity for the coronavirus; the labs will begin testing as
soon as they are ready. The Governor also announced the State University of New
York and the City University of New York will implement plans to maximize
distance learning and reduce in-person classes, beginning March 19th, for the
remainder of the spring semester.
Distance learning and other options will be developed by campuses.    43 additional cases of the coronavirus were
confirmed, bringing the statewide total to 216, only 3 cases are north of
Rockland County.

The
Chenango County Sheriff’s Office 911 center received a call of an individual
who had shot a rifle in the direction of 2 people in the Town of Plymouth
Monday.  Upon arrival, officers located
27 year old Zachary Ketchum, who was charged with 2 Counts of Reckless
Endangerment & menacing & 1 Count Criminal Mischief.  Ketchum was arraigned, released, &
Temporary orders of protection were issued for the victims.  The investigation is ongoing and additional
charges are pending.

Governor Cuomo delivered his Executive Budget Proposal to a
Joint Session of the Legislature this afternoon in Albany:

(Cuomo 1-21-20)

The budget totals about 173.8 billion & could top 175
billion during the budget negotiations, the legislature is expected to pass a
budget & deal with the projected 6.1 billion dollars deficit by April 1st.

The 2020 legislative session is underway in Albany and the
first real sticking point is the issue of the controversial Bail Reform law
that went into effect January 1st, & has had numerous problems with people
being released after being charged with serious crimes, and committing crimes
almost immediately after release.
Assemblyman Cliff Crouch comments:

(Crouch 1-21-20)

Governor Cuomo announced today that bail reform will
continue to be discussed over the next couple of weeks.

Governor Cuomo’s favorability rating got a slight boost,
while his job performance got an even bigger boost in the latest Siena poll
released this morning before the budget presentation.  New Yorkers are still 49% favorable rating
with a 45% unfavorable, which improves the rating of 44% in favor & 49%
unfavorable back in November.  41%
approve of the job the Governor is doing, as compared to 35% in November.

Members of the State Police held a private remembrance for
the 10 year anniversary of Trooper Jill Mattice’s death at the State Police
Barracks in Oneonta Monday.  A
remembrance was held then laid a wreath in front of the station barracks.  Members of trooper Mattice’s family &
police agencies, including the State Park Police, Otsego County Sheriff’s
Department, Oneonta City Police Department, and The Town of New Berlin Police
attended.  Trooper Mattice was killed in
a crash with a troop car on State Route 23 near Morris in 2010.

Binghamton University’s M. Stanley Whittingham will use his
expertise to benefit the state, according to the Governor in his State of the
State Address 2 weeks ago.  Whittingham
was awarded the Nobel Prize in Chemistry 3 months ago, for his work in the
development of the lithium-ion battery, he was asked by the Governor to head up
the Blue Ribbon Task Force to expand the use of electric vehicles in New York.
The task force will be co-chaired by NYSERDA.

Bainbridge Chamber next general membership meeting will be
held this morning, at the back of Bob’s Diner, the meeting starts at 7:30 AM.

State Police arrested 20 Year Old Tyler Jordan of Oneonta
Saturday, after he allegedly drove into a utility pole while intoxicated at
about 2:45 AM Saturday.  Many Unadilla
Area residents lost power for several hours before NYSEG Crews restored
power.  Jordan was charged with DWI,
speeding & unsafe lane change on state Route 7 in Unadilla.

Governor Cuomo today announced that the second phase of the
Raise the Age law is in effect, which will remove 17-year-olds who have
committed criminal acts from automatically proceeding as adults in the criminal
justice system. The change is effective midnight tonight.  The law requires youth to be treated in age-
and developmentally-appropriate ways and will receive needed services and
treatment to avoid re-offending.
Additional information is available at ny.gov/programs/raise-age-0.

The Trial of Orlando Tercero is
underway in his home country of Nicaragua.
Tercero is accused of killing fellow Binghamton University Student
Hailey Anderson in his apartment in March of 2018 & then fled the US back
to Nicaragua.  Witnesses are being
allowed to testify by video at the Broome County District Attorney's Office.

2 teens were charged with Criminal Possession of Stolen
Property and Resisting Arrest early Monday Morning.  State Police were dispatched to a car off the
roadway that was facing the wrong way on I-88 in the town of Otego.  Troopers located the vehicle and two teens
walking near the roadway.  When the
troopers activated their emergency lights, the teens took off running, but were
taken into custody a short time later.  The
vehicle, a 2013 Chevrolet Malibu was reported stolen in Albany; the teens will
appear in Family Court.

Otsego County Sheriff Departments arrested 24 year old
Gregory O’Bryan of East Meredith for the Burglary of a commercial business in
the Town of Milford.   O’Bryan was charged
with 3rd degree Burglary plus Criminal Mischief, & Petit Larceny following
the investigation of a Burglary at The Cooperstown Brewing Company at 110 River
Street in Milford. O’Bryan was arraigned in the Town of Hartwick Court and
scheduled to appear in the Milford Court at a later date.

The 4th annual Upper Susquehanna Watershed Forum is being
held at Binghamton University Center of Excellence today from 9:00 AM t0 5:00
PM.  The program will focus on how to move
forward with the Phase III Chesapeake Bay Watershed Implementation Plan.   Otsego County Conservation Association is
planning the forum in partnership with the Upper Susquehanna Coalition, Otsego
Land Trust, SUNY Oneonta, Binghamton University, among others.  This year’s forum includes morning and
afternoon sessions covering research in the watershed, innovative practices to
enhance water quality; more information is available at occainfo.org/watershed
forum.

Broadway in Binghamton presents the Off-Broadway Sensation,
The Office! A Musical Parody at the Forum Theatre in Binghamton tonight at 7:30
PM.   Tickets are on sale at
BroadwayInBinghamton.com or at The Arena Box Office, or by Phone at
1-800-745-3000.

Meetings are underway for the planning for the 2020 General
Clinton Canoe Regatta. The Kick off meeting is tonight at 7:00 PM at Galaxy
Bowl in Bainbridge.

The State DOT will begin construction this morning on State
Route 10 in the Village and Town of Deposit. Crews are going to begin pavement
milling in the area of the Exit 84 Ramps and work North on State Route 10
through the Village. This project will take multiple days to complete.  There will be single lane alternating traffic
during construction hours with flaggers in place. Please use caution in the
area and expect delays.

Bail for 18 year old Cody Coleman of Smithville was set at
$600,000 cash or $1 million bond earlier this week in Chenango County
Court.  Coleman was charged with 2nd
degree murder, criminal use of a firearm and criminal possession of a weapon
for the May 3rd death of his 16-year-old girlfriend, Amelia Wakefield of
Oxford.   Coleman is being held at the Chenango County
Correctional Facility pending future court action.

The Delaware County Historical Association is accepting
nominations for its annual Awards of Merit. Individuals and groups who have
made significant contributions to the preservation and presentation of local
history, traditions and culture will be presented with awards at the
Association’s Annual Meeting on Sunday, November 3rd.   More
information is available at 746-3849, by E-mail:  dcha@delhi.net or online at dcha-ny.org

Tomorrow is the last day to register online for this
Saturday's Bainbridge Glow Run at General Clinton Park, benefitting the
charitable event's founder Heather Bucalos of Sidney, who is facing cancer
treatments for the 2nd time in 5 years.
Bucalos comments:

(Heather Bucalos 9-11-19)

The event starts at 5:00 PM Saturday at General Clinton Park;
Bucalos started the event in 2015 as she was wrapping up her own Chemotherapy.

Hartwick College will honor a pair of local benefactors
during their True Blue Weekend on September 21st.   The late Clyde and Mildred Wright will be
honored with the naming of Hartwick’s new turf athletic field.  Wright Stadium is home to the College’s men’s
football, women’s field hockey, and men’s and women’s lacrosse programs, as
well as intramural sports.  Starting on
the 21st, all men’s sporting events played at the stadium will take place on
“The Clyde;” all women's sporting events will play on “The Millie.”  More information is available at 431-4432 or
joness3@hartwick.edu.

The Chenango Arts Council
announced that their Fall Workshops begin on Saturday September 14th through
October 19, where Rod Sutton will teach Photography to students of all levels
of experience.  An Advanced Drawing
workshop will also be held from September 23 until October 14, the workshops
are made possible in part by the State Council on the Arts.  More information is available at 336-ARTS or
chenangoart.org.

The American Red Cross will hold blood drives today,
September 11th, which is Patriot Day and a National Day of Service and
Remembrance.  In The Southern Tier, a
blood drive will be held from 11:30 AM to 5:30 PM at Binghamton University, in
Chenango County, in New Berlin from 11:30 AM to 3:30 PM At Golden Artist
Colors, at 188 Bell Road.

Governor Cuomo announced the Department of Financial
Services is taking action against the opioid manufacturers, distributors and
pharmacy benefit managers to secure $2 billion for New York consumers who have
shouldered the cost of the ongoing opioid epidemic in the form of higher
insurance premiums.

(Cuomo 9-11-19)

Governor Cuomo said that the Department of Financial Services
Will Hold Hearings across the State to Shed Light on Issue

At 8:30 a.m., Governor Cuomo will attend the September 11
Commemoration Ceremony.  Following the
ceremony, Governor Cuomo will join more than 700 motorcycle riders
participating in the 9/11 Memorial Motorcycle Ride at a lunch and ceremony in
New York City.  Groups of riders will
travel from Albany, Ulster and Nassau Counties before converging in New York
City.  Following the lunch, Governor Cuomo
and the other riders will depart on motorcycles for a ceremonial ride down the
West Side Highway to the World Trade Center site.

State Police arrested 25 year old John Mehne of Sarasota
Florida last night following an accident on I-81, which led to a manhunt.  State Police, Broome County Sheriff's Office
and Binghamton Police Department responded to the area of Duell Road,
Colesville Road and Springer Road in the town of Kirkwood, Troopers accuse Mehne
of attempted to flee the scene of the initial accident by jumping onto a van
& then into the bed of a pick-up truck, he eventually fled on foot into a
wooded area.  Mehne is accused of threatening
1 person with an axe, stealing an ATV, killing a chicken & a dog and was
apprehended while hiding naked in a chicken coop.  State Police encourage residents in that area
to check their property and call the State Police at 775-1241 if anything appears
disturbed.  The investigation is ongoing
& a multitude of charges are pending.

Chenango County Sheriff's Deputies arrested 26 year old
Uysef Guzman of Pennsylvania and 34 year old Heather Prince of Norwich on drug
charges following a traffic stop in the Town of Norwich Tuesday.   Deputies seized over 220 packets of heroin,
that was possibly mixed with fentanyl as well as over $1,900 in cash, the
incident is still under investigation and more arrests are expected.  Both defendants were arraigned in the City of
Norwich Court and were remanded to the Chenango County Correctional Facility on
$20,000 cash each. Both are to appear in the Town of Norwich Court on a later
date.

The state’s Medicaid program paid more than $60,000 for
sexual and erectile dysfunction drugs and treatments for 47 sex offenders,
according to an audit by State Comptroller Tom DiNapoli.  DiNapoli recommended that the Department of
Health provide Managed Care Organization’s with detailed lists of all ED drugs,
procedures, and supplies that are excluded or have limited Medicaid coverage;
and take corrective actions to ensure compliance with laws, policies, and
procedures; and Improve Department of Health’s computer system to apply sex
offender status in the processing of claims.

New York would be the first state in the U.S. to ban the
declawing of cats under legislation approved by lawmakers this session.  The bill would subject veterinarians to
$1,000 fines for performing the operation; it heads to the desk of Governor
Cuomo for approval.

The Chobani Community Impact Fund is now accepting letters
of inquiry from organizations, municipalities and school districts in Chenango,
Delaware, Madison and Otsego counties. The deadline for inquiries is June 28th,
2019. For more information about this opportunity, click
donorswhocare.org/chobani.

The Next Chenango County Health Department free rabies
clinic will be held today in Preston.
The Clinic for dogs, cats & Ferrets will be held from 5:30 to 6:30
at the Preston Town Garage, more information is available at 337-1673 of
co.chenango.ny.us.

Sidney Police Department reports
that some village residents have reported their vehicles have had items removed
from them. Police remind car & truck owners to close your windows &
lock your doors, & keep all valuables hidden from eye sight. If anyone sees
suspicious activity, they should call Sidney Police at 561-2301.

State Police issued 13,693 tickets for impaired driving over
Memorial Day weekend, as part of the STOP-DWI traffic enforcement period. The
initiative targeted impaired and reckless drivers from Friday, May 24 and
through Monday, May 27.   State Troopers
arrested 225 people for DWI and investigated 134 crashes, which resulted in 190
injuries and 4 fatalities.

Governor Cuomo today announced that the 22nd Annual Cyber
Security Conference continues today in Albany, bringing over 1,300 cyber
security professionals from state and local government and the private sector
to discuss emerging developments in the industry and best practices designed to
improve the security of New York State. The conference is being held at the
Empire State Plaza again today, the annual Conference is hosted by the State
Office of Information Technology Services in partnership with the University at
Albany School of Business and the New York State Forum, Inc.

The State Senate passed State Senator Jen Metzger's bill to
aid dairy farmers in complying with regulations to address water that can
collect in waste tires used by farmers use to hold down tarps over silage and
feed, which the DEC has determined creates a risk of mosquito breeding
grounds.  The DEC regulations require
cutting waste tires in half, drilling holes in them, or disposing of them and
finding new methods of covering silage, Metzger's bill is sponsored in the
Assembly by Assemblywoman Donna Lupardo, it instructs the Commissioner of
Agriculture and Markets and the Commissioner of Environmental Conservation to
develop a plan to remove used tires from farms at no cost to the farmers.

At approximately 7:35 p.m. on
Tuesday evening, Delaware County Sheriff's Deputies and Emergency Crews
responded to a tractor trailer roll-over accident, with entrapment, on State
Highway 10 in Town of Hamden.   The tractor
trailer had struck and severed a utility pole, bringing power lines down on the
overturned truck. The driver of the truck, 77 year old James Updyke of Homer
was pronounced dead at the scene.  The
highway was closed down for several hours for the investigation & clean up;
it was re-opened for traffic Wednesday morning.
Investigators determined that Updyke failed to negotiate a curve in the
roadway, crossed the roadway and ran off the southbound shoulder where the
truck struck a utility pole and tree and overturned.  The cause of the accident remains pending
upon the completion of an autopsy.

Governor Cuomo has directed the
State Police & The State Education Department to launch an investigation
into the allegations that 12-year-old girls were strip searched for drugs at
the Binghamton middle school recently.
Cuomo said that the girls were strip searched as they were perceived as
“'hyper and giddy” and it raises concerns of racial and gender bias.

Congressman Antonio Delgado will
open an office at the County Office Building, 111 Main Street in Delhi on
Monday, February 4th.  An open house will
be held from 12:00 Noon until 2:00 PM, the Delhi office regular hours will be
from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM Tuesdays and Wednesdays and by appointment.

27 year old Steven Barrows of
Sidney has Pleaded Guilty in Chenango County Court for 3rd degree
Burglary.  Barrows was arrested along
with Nicole Bell of Oneonta & Zachery England of Sidney last year, for
allegedly burglarizing buildings & stealing lawn care equipment, Barrows
will serve 1 1/2 years in prison & was ordered to pay restitution.

Delaware County Corrections
Sergeant Alan Weaver of Andes was named “Corrections Officer of the Year” by
the New York State Sheriff’s Association winter conference held in Albany, last
week.  Corrections Officer of the Year is
an award that is bestowed on a Sheriff’s Correction Officer who has
demonstrated an exceptional degree of dedication and commitment to the duties
of the Sheriff’s Office in operating County Jails.

Franklin Fire Fighters along
with assistance from firefighters Sidney Center, trout Creek & Treadwell
responded to a structure fire to an unoccupied farm house at 6402 County
Highway 21 at about 1:30 AM Tuesday.  The
building had been in the process of being renovated, it was listed as a total
loss; the cause of the fire was under investigation.

The Murder Trial of Aaron Powell
has been turned over to the jury in Broome County Court for deliberations this
afternoon.  Powell is facing a 2nd trial
for the murder of his estranged wife Christina & Mario Masciarelli in
Binghamton on March 22nd, 2013. Powell’s early conviction had been overturned
by a higher court & this 2nd trial was ordered.

State Police received a report Monday that 30 year old
Nicholas Philhower had taken his mother’s vehicle without permission and she
requested he be located and arrested.
Trooper Timothy Conklin observed the suspect vehicle on State Route 17
in the Town of Kirkwood,  Philhower took
evasive action, traveling through the median and then onto State Route 17 east
bound, coming to a stop shortly thereafter.
Philhower was armed with a military style semi-automatic rifle,
immediately opened fire on Trooper Conklin through the rear window of the
vehicle.  Trooper Conklin returned fire
through the windshield of his troop car as Philhower exited his vehicle and
continued to advance and fire upon the trooper.
Trooper Conklin was able to reload, exit the troop car and continue to
exchange fire.   Philhower was struck
several times and died at the scene.
Trooper Conklin sustained a minor shrapnel injury to his upper right arm
and was taken to Wilson Hospital in Johnson City where he was treated and
released.  An autopsy on Philhower will
be performed today at Lourdes Hospital.
The investigation is on-going.

Governor Cuomo today announced that $30 million in Upstate
Revitalization Initiative funding has been awarded to Binghamton University to
complete its Health Sciences Campus in Johnson City. This latest investment
will finalize the nursing school building that will be housed in an historic,
former Endicott Johnson shoe box factory, and co-located with the University’s
new School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences.

The Southside Mall Job Fair will be held today, with a
number of area businesses participating.
The Job Fair will be held from 2:00 to 4:00 PM today, a list of area
businesses that will have representatives at the job fair, can be found at the
CDO Workforce face book page.

22 Year old Barbara Doyle of Oneonta has already written 20 books & published 7 of them, which are available through Amazon on their Kindle platform or in paperback. Doyle told WCDO News about her 7 book which was published last Friday:

(Barbara Doyle 11-1-18)

Doyle currently works for Bassett Healthcare in Research & has been accepted to participate in the University of Albany's graduate program for Literature, with a goal to become an English professor.

4 out of the 5 New York Gubernatorial Candidates will participate in a debate in Albany tonight. Governor Cuomo has opted out of tonight's debate, republican Marcus Molinaro, Libertarian Larry Sharpe; Green Party Candidate Howie Long & Independent Stephanie Miner will participate, at the College of St. Rose in Albany at 6:00pm.

The Delaware County Board of Elections Office will be open extra hours in the days leading up to the General Elections on November 6th. Added Hours will be today until 7:00 PM for absentee voting, Saturday November 3rd from 9:00 AM to 12:00 Noon. More information is available at 832-5321, or at the main office in Delhi, Monday through Friday, from 8:30 AM to 4:00 PM.

Following a court decision this week, The Oneonta Fire District will officially dissolve tomorrow. The Oneonta town board will meet tonight at 7:00 p.m. to hold a public hearing on the 2019 town budget and discuss the formation of the new fire district.

The State DMV announced that November is "STOP-DWI Month" in New York State. The STOP-DWI Program was established in November of 1981 to coordinate state and local efforts to reduce impaired-driving offenses and to prevent crashes across the state. Since the program was enacted, fatalities from alcohol-related crashes on New York’s roadways have decreased 74%.

A man reported missing whose vehicle was found abandoned in Oneonta has been located deceased. State Police located 53-year-old Steven J. Kassirer deceased in a ravine within heavy brush, behind Safelite Auto Glass on Oneida Street in Oneonta. Troopers located Kassirer's vehicle earlier in the week in the Safe Lite parking lot, he was reported missing in Irondequoit and was also reported missing in Massachusetts when he did not report to his place of employment on October 23. No foul play is suspected at this time but the cause of death is still pending autopsy results.

The Bainbridge-Guilford Central School will hold a Board of Education Meeting Today, in the Guilford Elementary School Cafeteria at 6:30 PM. The business portion of the meeting will start at 7:00 PM.

Sidney Chamber of Commerce “Business After Hours” will be held today, at the Sidney Memorial Library. The event will run from 5:00 to 7:00 PM, members will get a chance to meet with new Library Director Beth Paine.

Binghamton Police announced that they are looking for 22 year old Orlando Tercero of Nicaragua regarding the death of 22-year-old Haley Anderson, a nursing student at Binghamton University. Tercero and Anderson were previously in a relationship, Anderson was found dead in her Oak Street apartment Friday, while Tercero left the United States for Nicaragua. Anyone with information can contact the Binghamton Police Detective Division at 607-772-7080 or 607-772-7082.

State Budget negotiations are continuing in Albany, and something that may be included is the added school security measures following the continuing rash of school shootings nationwide. Local Assemblyman Cliff Crouch comments:

(Cliff Crouch 3-12-18)

Lawmakers have until April 1st to get the annual budget plan completed.

For the 2nd year in a row, Melodie Loya, a home schooled student from Sidney, will be going to the Scripps National Spelling bee in late May & early June, after winning the local DCMO BOCES Daily Star spelling bee this past weekend. Martha Ryan of DCMO Boces said that they are putting together a fundraiser so that Melodie can go to Washington & Compete again:

(Martha Ryan 3-12-18)

Melodie finished in the top 50 at last year's Scripps competition in Washington D.C.

State Police are alerting area residents of another scam that appears by text on your phone, that appears to be coming from a bank, & urging the recipient of the text to call a number back immediately. Police remind area residents that you should never give any banking information by email, text or by phone, they advise you to contact your bank directly if there is an issue that needs to be addressed.

The Binghamton Rumble Ponies invite fans to their annual Meet the Rumble Ponies Dinner on Tuesday, April 3rd at the Holiday Inn in Downtown Binghamton. Tickets are on sale, at the Starting Gate Box Office at NYSEG Stadium. On the night of the dinner, Rumble Ponies players will arrive at 5:30 PM for the “Meet the Rumble Ponies” autograph reception. Dinner will be served at 7:00 PM followed by a special event including an interview with returning Rumble Ponies manager Luis Rojas and introductions of the new coaching staff and players. The Rumble Ponies kick off the 2018 season at home on Thursday, April 5 against the Portland Sea Dogs at 6:35 PM.

State Police arrested 30 year old Ethan David of Norwich for Criminal Mischief, following a report of a fight in a residence on White Store Road in the town of Norwich. David is accused of causing damage by punching a wall, leaving several holes. David was arraigned & was remanded to the Chenango County Jail on $1,000 cash or $2,000 bond.

The State Department of Environmental Conservation and researchers at Cornell University are surveying New Yorkers about deer-related interests and concerns. Survey results will be used to guide deer population management decisions.

State Police arrested 16 year old Emmanuel Coy of Whitney Point, for felony Making a Terroristic Threat, following the investigation of the previous threat against the Whitney Point High School that resulted in the arrest of another teenager on February 15th. Coy was arraigned and was remanded to Broome County Jail on $2,500 cash bail. The investigation revealed no threat to the school or the public.

NYSEG has restored power to nearly all of the more than 203,000 customers that were impacted by the 2 winter storms that hit the region over the past week. The storms had heavy, wet snow and high winds that caused severe damage to electrical infrastructure through the Northeast. NYSEG crews, tackled more than 3,000 downed wires and hundreds of broken poles in the hardest hit areas of The Catskills.

New York State Police and the Utica Police Department are investigating a threat at Utica College earlier today. Staff and students at Utica College received an alert at about 11:00 AM today, that the campus was on lockdown because of the threat, everyone was ordered to stay where they were while the threat was investigated. There is no confirmation of any shots fired on campus, and there are no injuries reported. Law enforcement continues to investigate threat. Local, state, and federal law enforcement are on scene.

State Police arrested 26-year-old Christopher Neumann of Castleton in connection with a collision that injured 2 troopers & 2 tow truck operators early Sunday on Interstate 90. Troopers Brent Karow and Shane Swartz were investigating an unrelated 1-car crash on I-90 in North Greenbush at approximately 5:15 a.m. Sunday, when Neumann's vehicle struck their patrol car, which then hit both troopers and tow truck operator, Jeffrey Waite. Trooper Karow was thrown 70 feet into the median, while Trooper Swartz and Waite were thrown under the tow truck, all 3 were taken to Albany Medical Center, a 2nd Tow Truck employee was hit by flying debris & was treated at the scene. Neumann was charged with 1st degree vehicular assault, DWI and numerous other traffic violations, he was arraigned & was remanded to the Rensselaer County Jail.

Delaware County Sheriff’s Deputies arrested 49-year-old Daniel Fisher of Franklin Sunday on charges of Criminal Contempt & Harassment, for allegedly violating an Order of Protection. Fisher was arraigned in the Town of Franklin Court and remanded to the Delaware County Correctional Facility, pending action in Town of Franklin Court & Delaware County Family Court at a later date to answer the charges.

Governor Cuomo announced that the state has moved its fall primary election date back 2 days so it doesn’t interfere with the anniversary of 9/11 or a Jewish holiday. Cuomo signed the law Friday to move the primary to Thursday, September 13th.

The State University of New York has established a task force to focus on food security issues at its 64 campuses. The SUNY system reported that 70% of its campuses have a food pantry for students or partnerships with community organizations that provide meals. SUNY Chancellor Kristina Johnson said the goal is for all campuses to have food pantries or arrangements with community groups that provide resources for food.

Congresswoman Claudia Tenney announced her re-election campaign Saturday; she is running against Democratic State Assemblyman Anthony Brindisi of Utica for the 22nd Congressional District. Tenney was elected to the seat in 2016, replacing retiring Congressman Richard Hanna.

NYSEG made progress following the significant winter storm on Thursday. The storm resulted in more than 188,000 outages, as of Sunday morning, 117,000 customers had power restored. The company expects more than 90% of customers affected by the storm in the Catskills region to restored by 11:45 pm tonight.

State Police arrested 49 year old Harvey Scott of Oneonta for Petty Larceny, after Scott allegedly walked out of the Oneonta Walmart with a cart full of items totaling $676. Harvey was remanded to the Ostego County Jail on $1,000 cash bond or $2,000 bail.

Casey Callahan was sentenced to 25 years to life in prison In Otsego County Court today, for the murder of his wife Elizabeth in 2000. Pennsylvania. An Otsego County jury convicted Callahan of 2nd degree murder recently, for running over his wife with an 18-wheeler at a gas station on Route 17 in Pennsylvania; the case was tried in New York as prosecutors said that Callahan plotted to murder his wife in Otsego County.

Governor Cuomo activated the State Emergency Operations Center and has directed all state agencies to take precautionary measures and mobilize personnel in order to monitor and prepare for severe weather. Representatives from Homeland Security and Emergency Services, Office of Emergency Management, plus the DOT, DEC, State Police & many others have all been direct to immediately report to the Emergency Operations Center following the activation.

State Police arrested 28-Year-old Philip Dionisio of Mamaroneck early Sunday Morning for Felony DWI and other traffic violations. Troopers responded to a report of a car in a ditch off of Newton Town Road, in the Town of Bainbridge, Dionisio is accused of Driving while Intoxicated when he drove into a ditch; the arrest is a felony due to a prior DWI conviction. Dionisio was arraigned in the Town of Afton Court and was remanded to the Chenango County Jail on $5,000 cash bail or $10,000 property bond.

As Daylight Savings Time comes to an end on November 5, the Firemen’s Association of the State of New York urges all citizens to check their smoke and carbon monoxide alarms to ensure their homes are properly prepared for an emergency. Alarms equipped with either removable or sealed-in batteries both need to be tested. Removable batteries should be replaced, and sealed-in batteries should be checked to confirm they are functioning. Governor Cuomo signed a bill into law that will take effect in 2019 that will require all smoke alarms sold in New York State to be equipped with sealed-in, non-removable batteries that last for at least 10 years.

The State Legislature may be making a return trip to Albany in the coming weeks. Governor Cuomo said last week that the state is facing a 4 billion dollar deficit in the budget that could require legislative action.

Governor Cuomo today announced that the Excelsior Scholarship application for students to attend SUNY or CUNY tuition free this spring semester will open today, Monday, October 30th and will be open until December 4th. Recipients of the Excelsior Scholarship's spring awards will join the more than 210,000 students already attending a public college or university in New York State tuition-free, and the 45,000 students deemed eligible for the Scholarship in the fall. Applications are available at hesc.ny.gov/excelsior.

The Bainbridge Town Hall will be undergoing some renovations Tuesday through this Friday. Town Officials remind area residents that the building is still accessible during the renovations through the rear entrance.

28-year-old Justin Crandall of Sidney confessed to 3 counts of sexual exploitation on a plea bargain arrangement in Federal Court Friday, his wife, 27-year-old Jessica Crandall pleaded guilty to Conspiracy to Sexually Exploit a Child. The couple were arrested by the FBI and State Police after they executed search warrants at their Sidney residence and found the explicit videos on cell phones. Jessica Crandall still faces other charges & additional court action. Justin Crandall will face sentencing on February 23rd.

State Police and local law enforcement have increased patrols to crack down on impaired driving and underage drinking through Halloween on Tuesday. The enforcement campaign includes sobriety checkpoints, additional DWI patrols; officers will also be looking for motorists who are using their phones and other electronic devices while behind the wheel. Drivers should also remember to "move over" for stopped emergency and hazard vehicles stopped on the side of the road.

The Afton Fair is returning to the fairgrounds in Afton this summer, from Thursday July 6th to Sunday July 9th, with a full line up of events. Afton Fair Board President Rhonda Barriger explains:

(Rhonda Barriger 6-13-17)

Barriger said that more information is available by calling 639-1525, or going to their website, theaftonfair.com.

The Chenango County Sheriff's Office & Norwich Police arrested 25-year-old Randy Wilcox of Sherburne for driving while intoxicated, following a 1-car accident in the Town of Sherburne on June 1st. The Wilcox vehicle left its lane of travel and exited the State Hwy 12B, the vehicle struck numerous objects; an eyewitness told police that the vehicle left the scene & continued To Norwich. Wilcox was charged with DWI, he was arraigned in the Town of Norwich Court where he was remanded to the Chenango County Correctional Facility on $5,000 cash bail, pending future court action.

State Police arrested 49 year old Preston Bryant of Hartwick for 3rd degree Assault, Criminal Obstruction of Breathing or Blood Circulation, and Menacing, after troopers responded to dispute in the Town of Hartwick. Bryant is accused of punching & choking the victim, Bryant was arraigned in the Town of Hartwick court and was remanded to the Otsego County jail on $1,000 cash bail or $2,000 bond, pending court action on Wednesday. An order of protection was issued against Bryant on behalf of the victim.

The Delaware County Chamber of Commerce and other area groups, have revived the Meredith Dairy Fest this Saturday & Sunday. Delaware County Chamber President Ray Pucci comments:

(Ray Pucci 6-13-17)

Pucci said that the Meredith Dairy Fest will be held right near the previous location off of Catskill Turnpike Road & Honest Brook Road, more information is available at meredithdairyfest.com.

The Chenango County Sheriff's Department arrested 25-year-old Samuel Ackerman of Norwich for criminal contempt. Ackerman was charged following a complaint filed for allegedly violating of an order of protection by sending letters while incarcerated, to a woman who had filed for the Court order. Ackerman is being held in the Chenango County Jail unrelated charges; he faces court action on the new charge shortly.

The SUNY Oneonta University Police Department has named Jennifer Fila as the new campus police chief. Fila was previously the deputy chief at the SUNY Albany University Police, she will start in Oneonta July 12th.

New York State of Health & the WIC program are working together to share information about and enroll participants in affordable health insurance coverage. Through the end of the month, assistors trained and certified by NY State of Health will hold 92 in-person informational sessions at 26 WIC clinics across the State. Details are available at info.nystateofhealth.ny.gov/events

Ronette Wiley has been appointed Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer for Bassett Medical Center. Wiley previously served many roles at Bassett Medical Center since 2008. Wiley will be responsible for the operating performance of Bassett Medical Center.

A Delaware County Grand Jury handed down Sealed Indictments, Deputies arrested 30 year old Nicole Sass of Denver, New York on a the Sealed Indictment Warrant charging her with Criminal Sale of a Controlled Substance, she is accused of selling Hydrocodone in the Village of Margaretville in January of this year. Sass was arraigned in Delaware County Court on Monday afternoon and was remanded to the Delaware County Correctional Facility without bail pending further court action.

The Public Safety & Legal Affairs Committee of the Otsego County Board of Representatives announced that they continue to investigate the situation regarding Sergeant Ros Devlin of the Otsego County Corrections Department, who is also the son of Otsego County Sheriff Richard Devlin. Ros Devlin was accused of using excessive violence as a corrections officer, he is also accused of making threats, possibly against area schools and the public in general that led to his pistol permit being revoked, and he was banned from being on County Property, and his behavior was being investigated by the County District Attorney’s office, The County’s Labor Attorney, the Sheriff’s Department & State Police. Sheriff Devlin was requested to recuse himself from the investigation due to an obvious conflict of interest, which he initially refused; County officials said that the Sheriff did not advise them of his original disciplinary action until April 10th. The investigation is continuing.

Delaware County Sheriff’s Deputies arrested 21 year old Alissa Young of Hancock, Thursday for 1 count of Driving While Ability Impaired Drugs plus other charges, Following the report of a vehicle going off the road and into a ditch on State Highway 97 in the Town of Hancock, she was arraigned and was remanded to the Delaware County Jail on $1,000 cash bail or $2,000 bail bond. Deputies also arrested Young’s passenger, 26-year-old Anthony Rhinebeck of Hancock, for Criminal Possession of a Hypodermic Instrument, he is accused of possessing 3 hypodermic instruments, Rhinebeck was arraigned and was remanded to the Delaware County Jail on $5,000 cash bail or $10,000 bail bond.

The New York State Department of Taxation and Finance announced that they have extended the hours of its Income Tax Call Center through the April 18 filing deadline to assist taxpayers. On Monday & Tuesday, the call center at 518-457-5181 will remain open until 7:30 p.m. to assist taxpayers with last minute tax return filing questions. For taxpayers using a home computer or mobile device, many questions can be answered at tax.ny.gov.

Rotary District 7170 has received a Rotary Global grant to help with the local fight against heroin & Opioid abuse in 7 local counties, including Chenango, Delaware Otsego & Broome Counties. District Grant Committee Chairperson Lana Rouff told WCDO News what the money would be used for:

(Lana Rouff 4-14-17)

Rouff said that the money will also be used of an Internet program to target those who may be using Opioids and get them the help they need.

The Delaware County Tourism Advisory Board is now accepting applications for funding under the newly created Tourism Promotion & Development Grant program. This program will provide funding assistance to eligible applicants for projects that seek to attract visitors to Delaware County and enhance the overall tourism industry. Applications for grant assistance must be hand-delivered to the Delaware County Department of Economic Development or postmarked by 5:00pm on May 17th. More information is available at 607-832-5123.

4 Chenango County Farms will benefit following an announcement by Governor Cuomo, to address the impact of climate change on agriculture. The Chenango County Soil and Water Conservation District was awarded $67,716 to work with four farms to plant 1,015 acres of cover crops over a three year period, to improve soil quality, reduce erosion, increase soil organic matter and improve resiliency to the farm from extreme weather conditions like floods & droughts.

State Police arrested 34 year old Rachel Howard of Burlington Flats for the Aggravated Driving While Intoxicated with a B.A.C. result of .18 and other traffic violations. This arrest occurred after a traffic stop when Howard was observed driving across hazard markings while on County Route 22 in the Town of Exeter. An investigation determined that she was driving while highly intoxicated. Howard was issued tickets returnable to the Town of Exeter Court on April 19, 2017.

The New York State Museum is opening a new exhibit on the Empire State's experience in World War I. The exhibit titled "A Spirit of Sacrifice: New York State in the First World War" opens on Saturday, just over a week after the nation marked the 100th anniversary of the United States' entry into the conflict fought from August 1914 to November 1918. The exhibit's highlights include a life-size recreation of a trench on the Western Front. The exhibit at the downtown Albany museum runs through June 3, 2018. More than 500,000 New Yorkers served during WWI, the most of any state. Nearly 14,000 lost their lives.

The State DEC is opening spring turkey season on May 1 in the upstate counties. The DEC's annual youth turkey hunting weekend is scheduled for April 22 & 23, for junior hunters ages 12-15. The DEC encourages experienced hunters to take a novice hunter afield this spring, more information about turkey hunting in New York, see the 2016-17 Hunting and Trapping Regulations Guide or visit the "Turkey Hunting" pages of DEC's website at dec.ny.gov.

Today is the last day to sign up for free income tax preparation in Chenango County through the Colgate University Volunteer income tax assistance program. Residents who earned less than $54,000 may be eligible to participate, more information, can be made through Cornell Cooperative Extension at 99 Broad Street in Norwich, at 334-5841. The deadline to file state & federal income taxes is Tuesday April 18th this year.

The city of Oneonta department of public service announced that curbside pick up of brush & yard waste will begin again on Monday April 17th. Wards 1-4 will get their waste picked up stating on Monday, wards 5 through 8 will get their first pick up April 24th. More information about what is collectable or the city schedule, can contact the department at 432-2100 during regular business hours.

New York's 29 members of the Electoral College have cast their ballots for Hillary Clinton today, who won the state's popular vote, despite losing the presidential race to Republican Donald Trump in the expected final Electoral College tabulations, which will be completed today. The electors gathered today in the state Capitol's Senate chambers.

State police arrested 19 year old Christopher Tuckett of Floral Park, Long Island on 2 counts of Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance, Reckless Driving and other traffic violations, after a trooper observed a vehicle speeding at 106 miles per hour, in a 65 miles an hour zone on I-88 in the Town of Otego Sunday. Tuckett was found to be illegally possessing prescription pills, he was issued tickets returnable to the Town of Otego Court on Thursday.

SUNY Delhi University Police reported that 21 year old Steven Sutliff was found in good health Friday afternoon by Oneonta City Police at the Huntington Library. Sutliff was reported missing on Tuesday after he left Delhi on December 10th for Oneonta and told roommates he would return Monday December 12th.

The Word of Life church pastor Tiffanie Irwin of New Hartford was sentenced to 12 years in prison. in connection with the beating of 2 boys during a church “counseling session” last year. 9 defendants who belonged to the Word of Life Church parish in Oneida County were charged for the beatings that killed 19-year-old Lucas Leonard and severely injured 17-year-old Christopher Leonard.

Delaware County Sheriff’s Deputies arrested 33 year old Candis Gier, of Walton on 2 counts of criminal possession of a controlled substance, 2 counts of petty larceny, after an investigation into a report of a theft of prescription pills from a Walton residence. Gier was released on appearance tickets returnable to Walton Town Court at a later date.

The Village of Sidney continues to pursue several economic development projects in order to keep residents from leaving after 2 floods in the last 10 years. Sidney Mayor Andy Matviak comments:

(Andy Matviak 12-19-16)

Matviak said that the time is now for the once in a lifetime opportunity to keep Sidney moving forward, without expense to the taxpayers.

The Electoral College for the State of New York will convene in the Senate Chamber of the State Capitol in Albany on Monday, December 19, 2016 at 12:00 pm. Electors will officially cast their ballots for President and Vice President of the United States.

Fire broke out a a trailer at lot 22 at 124 Oneida Street in Oneonta Sunday. fire fighters from Otego, West Oneonta & Oneonta responded, all occupants of the Wayman family escaped without injury. A space heater is believed to be the cause of the fire.

It appears less likely that a Special Session of the Legislature will be called before the end of the year, as Governor Cuomo & Senate leaders have differing agendas as the year closes. Governor Cuomo said that he wants to appropriate up to one billion more dollars to help the homeless, and expand of the state’s hate crimes law, lawmakers wants a pay raise for the first time in 17 years, & neither side is budging. Lawmakers will wind up back in Albany for a brand new session in January.

Attorney General Schneiderman urged all New Yorkers to take immediate steps to protect their personal information online, in the wake of Yahoo's recent disclosure that a third party had breached its servers and accessed the personal data of over 1 billion users. The data compromised includes email addresses, telephone numbers, dates of birth, hashed passwords (using MD5) and, in some cases, encrypted or unencrypted security questions and answers. The investigation indicates that the stolen information did not include passwords in clear text, payment card data, or bank account information. The Attorney General urges anyone with a Yahoo account to change their passwords and security questions -- not only with Yahoo accounts, but for any other accounts which you use the same or similar information.

A Sidney native has entered into the world of publishing, when he published his first science fiction novel earlier this month through Amazon.com. Scott Scavo told WCDO News is a 1995 Sidney High School Graduate who started his story as bedtime stories for his children, and wound up with so much material it became a book:

(Scott Scavo 12-16-16)

Scavo is the son of retired Sidney Principal Gary Scavo, who was recently inducted into the Sidney Alumni Association hall of fame as a coach; Scott Scavo resides in Connecticut where he works as a hedge fund manager. His second book is about 80% complete & he hopes to publish that soon.

Delhi University police announced that they are searching for 21 year old Steven Sutliff, who told his roommates on Saturday afternoon that he was heading to Oneonta, and would return on Monday. Sutliff was reported missing on Tuesday evening. Sutliff is described as a 5'9" white male, weighing about 150 pounds, with brown hair and brown eyes. Anyone with information on Sutliff's whereabouts are asked to contact SUNY Delhi University Police at 607-746-4700, or New York State Police at 607-561-7400.

Governor Cuomo today announced that New York State will participate in the national “Drive Sober or get Pulled Over” enforcement campaign to crackdown on impaired driving this holiday season. Drivers can expect sobriety checkpoints and an increased number of Troopers patrolling New York roadways, starting today through Sunday, January 1st, 2017.

The Chenango County Sheriff’s Office and the Village of Sidney Police Department arrested 46 year old Chanin Ives on an Arrest Warrant issued out of the Town of Guilford. Ives was arrested on an Arrest Warrant for 2nd degree Aggravated Harassment, Ives was arraigned in the Town of Guilford court & was remanded to the Chenango County Correctional Facility on $500 cash bail.

In November 2016, the State’s private sector job count increased by 4,800, or 0.1%, to 7,950,000, according to preliminary figures by the State Department of Labor. In November, New York’s statewide unemployment rate decreased from 5.2% to 5.1%.