CONGRESSMAN JOHN FASO – WCDO Radio News

WCDO NEWS WEDNESDAY 11-7-18

wcdonews — Wed, 07 Nov 2018 20:12:58 +0000

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

(Capt Scott Heggelke 11-7-18)

Captain Heggelke said that the incident occurred after 9:00 PM Monday; The Delaware County Coroner’s Office ordered the bodies removed for autopsies, which were being performed at Lourdes Hospital in Binghamton this afternoon, the official cause and approximate time of death is expected to be in the final Autopsy report, which may be released later today.
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The Trial for Ernest Franklin of Guilford has been delayed again, until early next year. Franklin & his wife Heather are accused of killing their developmentally disabled son & setting fire to their house to cover up the murder in the town of Guilford in March of 2017. Ernest Franklin is being held without bail pending the start of his trial; Heather Franklin was released on bail.
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State Police arrested 25 year old Taylor Nelson of Afton for 2 counts of Criminal LOUDESPossession of a Controlled Substance, Criminal Possession of a Forged Instrument, Operating a Motor Vehicle while Impaired by Drugs, & Criminally Using Drug Paraphernalia. Troopers were dispatched to the Sunoco on County Route 39 in the town of Bainbridge to check the welfare of a male slumped behind the wheel of his vehicle. Troopers determined that Nelson was impaired and was in possession of a counterfeit $100 bill, methamphetamine, drug paraphernalia and items used to measure drug quantity. Nelson was arraigned in the town of Bainbridge Court where he was remanded to the Chenango County Jail on no bail.
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State Police arrested 51 year old Marianne Stanislawski of Chenango for Grand Larceny, for allegedly taking advantage of a 75-year-old man who suffers from Alzheimer’s. An investigation revealed that Stanislawski knew the victim for several years; she would visit him weekly at his residence and help him run errands. The investigation further revealed that Stanislawski was making cash withdrawals that the victim did not approve of. Stanislawski was arrested and arraigned in the town of Oxford Court and released on her own recognizance and is to appear in court at a later date. An order of protection was issued by the judge protecting the victim.
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Long Time State Assemblyman Cliff Crouch easily won the 122nd Assembly District on Election Day; he told WCDO News that he was thankful for that level of Support:

(Cliff Crouch 11-7-18)

Crouch defeated Conservative Nicholas Libous in Tuesday’s election; there was no Democratic candidate in the race. Crouch has served in the State Assembly since 1995.
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Sidney Village Police reported that local residents have reported that their vehicles have had items removed from them. Police remind residents to close and lock your windows and doors, keep all valuables hidden from plain sight, if you see anything suspicious, contact the police department at 561-2301
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The Southern Chenango County Community Listening Session, Hosted by Truth Pharm, will be held this evening in Bainbridge. The main topic of discussion will be the local drug abuse problem; the event will begin at 6:30 PM at Bob’s Diner in Bainbridge.
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The results are in from the State Board of Elections in the U.S. Senate seat, Democratic incumbent Kirsten Gillibrand by a 2 to 1 margin over Republican Chele Farley, in local Congressional races, in the 19th District, Democrat Antonio Delgado defeats incumbent John Faso by about 3%. In the 22nd District: Democrat Anthony Brindisi defeats incumbent Claudia Tenney. In State Office races, Incumbent Democrat Andrew Cuomo defeated all challengers to win a 3rd term as Governor, State Comptroller Tom DiNapoli easily defeats all challengers for another term., and the new Attorney General will be Democrat Letitia James. In the race for the 6th District State Supreme Court seat, Republican Joe McBride wins. In area State Senate races, in the 42nd district, Democrat Jennifer Metzger wins over Republican Ann Rabbitt for the seat previously held by the retiring John Bonacic, in the 51st district, Republican Incumbent Jim Seward wins re-election for a 17th term, in the 52nd district , Incumbent Republican Fred Akshar was unopposed. In local State Assembly Races, in the 121 District: Republican John Salka defeats longtime incumbent Bill Magee, in the 122 District: Incumbent Cliff Crouch easily defeats Conservative Nicholas Libous, in the 123rd District: Democratic incumbent Donna Lupardo was unopposed & in the 102nd District: Democrat Aidan O’Conner wins by a slim margin over incumbent Republican Christopher Tague. Rich Devlin is re-elected as Otsego County Sheriff & David Harder is re-elected as Broome County Sheriff.
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The National Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum will partner with the New York State Division of Veterans’ Affairs today to offer all military veterans free admission to the home of baseball in Cooperstown. More information is available at baseballhall.org or 888-HALL-OF-FAME or 547-7200.
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Governor Cuomo today announced the state is dedicating $3 million for state-of-the-art studies to reduce flooding and ice jams and improve ecology on 48 priority flood-prone streams throughout New York State. The DEC and Office of General Services will implement the studies as part of the Resilient NY program, which will consist of flood studies to identify the causes of flooding within each watershed and develop, evaluate, and recommend effective and ecologically sustainable flood and ice-jam hazard mitigation projects.
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State Police arrested 32 year old Jessica Klinegardner of Tompkins for Unlawful Possession of Personal Identification Information, after a complaint by the victim that she noticed suspicious charges on her deceased mother’s credit card. An investigation revealed that Klinegardner was working as a home health aide for the deceased victim; she was issued an appearance ticket to appear in the town of Tompkins Court on December 6th.
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WCDO NEWS MONDAY 11-5-18

wcdonews — Mon, 05 Nov 2018 19:25:10 +0000

Tomorrow is Election Day, with a host of important races to be decided.
For FEDERAL Positions, in the U.S. SENATE, Democratic incumbent Kirsten Gillibrand faces Republican challenger Chele Farley. In area House of Representative Races; in the 19th District: Incumbent Republican John Faso faces challenges from Democrat Antonio Delgado, Green Candidate Steven Greenfield, & Independent Dianne Neal; in the 22nd District: Republican Incumbent Claudia Tenney vs Democrat Anthony Brindisi.
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In key races on the County Level, for Otsego County Sheriff; Incumbent Rich Devlin faces Robert Fernandez, in the Broome County Sheriff’s race: Incumbent David Harder Vs Matt Ryan. . In the race for the 6th District of the State Supreme Court: Republican Joe McBride faces Democrat Elizabeth Burns.
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For State Offices, for Governor: 2 term Incumbent Democrat Andrew Cuomo faces challenges from Republican Marcus Molinaro, Green Party Candidate Howie Hawkins, Libertarian Larry Sharpe, & Independent Stephanie Miner; in the race for Comptroller: Incumbent Democrat Tom DiNapoli, faces Republican Jonathan Trichter & Green Candidate Mark Dunlea, for Attorney General; Democrat Letitia James, Republican Keith Wofford, Green Candidate Michael Sussman, Libertarian Christopher Garvey are running In local State Senate races, in the 42nd District, Democrat Jennifer Metzger faces Republican Ann Rabbitt, in the 51st District; Republican Incumbent Jim Seward faces Democrat Joyce St. George. In the 52nd District, Incumbent Republican Fred Akshar is unopposed. In local State Assembly races, in the 121 District: Incumbent Bill Magee faces Republican John Salka, in the 122 District Incumbent Cliff Crouch faces a challenge from Conservative Nicholas Libous, there is no Democratic candidate. In the 123rd District: Democratic incumbent Donna Lupardo is unopposed, in the 102 District: Incumbent Republican Christopher Tague faces Democrat Aidan O’Conner
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Attorney General Barbara Underwood announced her office’s Election Day Hotline, which is available to help troubleshoot and resolve a range of issues encountered by voters at the polls during the general election on Tuesday, November 6th. The Attorney General urges voters experiencing problems or issues at the polls to call the office’s hotline at 800-771-7755 or email civil.rights@ag.ny.gov at any time between 6:00 AM and 9:00 PM on Tuesday. The hotline will be staffed by attorneys and staff in the Attorney General’s Civil Rights Bureau.
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Delaware County Sheriff’s Deputies arrested 31 year old Jessie Bolster and 40 year old Roy Bolster of Harpursville after they were stopped in Hancock for Traffic infractions. Jessie Bolster was operating the motor vehicle while having several active suspensions; Roy Bolster was wanted on an active arrest warrant from Tompkins County Family Court. A search of the vehicle revealed the pair were in possession of Oxycodone & bags of crystal methamphetamine. Both were charged with 4 counts of Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance, Jessie Bolster was additionally charged with Aggravated Unlicensed Operation. Both were arraigned & were remanded to the Delaware County Correctional Facility in lieu of $10,000 cash/$20,000 secured bond.
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The Otsego County Sheriff’s Department responded Friday to the report of a bear getting hit by a car on State Route 28 in the town of Milford. The unidentified Driver was not injured, the vehicle was towed from the scene and the bear was killed in the collision, which was reported at about 7:20 AM Friday Morning.
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State Police executed a residential search warrant at a home in the town of Delancey; they arrested 20 year old David Dotey on 3 felony counts of Promoting Obscene Sexual Performance by a Child, Possessing Obscene Sexual Performance by a Child and Computer Trespass. Dotey is accused of uploading and distributing sexual performance by prepubescent children, he was arraigned and was remanded to the Delaware County Jail on $2,500 cash bail or $5,000 property bond. The case is still under investigation, additional charges are possible.

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Governor Cuomo announced $13 million is available for restoration and recovery efforts following the severe storms and flash flooding on August 13-15 that severely impacted communities in the Southern Tier. A new residential assistance program has been created to provide funding to primary homeowners whose damages exceed insurance claims and other available aid. With maximum grants of $50,000, this program will help eliminate the unmet need of homeowners. Applications from homeowners for the residential assistance program will be accepted starting today, the deadline for applications are February 4, 2019.
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A woman, who suffered cardiac arrest Friday, is expected to survive after the quick actions of State Troopers and a citizen. A trooper was dispatched to a report of a 70-year-old woman who had collapsed in the lobby of the Richfield Springs Post Office, She was unresponsive when the trooper arrived and a citizen was already performing CPR. Another trooper arrived & administered the Automated External Defibrillator, EMS arrived, and they took the woman to Basset Hospital in Cooperstown. The unidentified woman regained consciousness at the hospital and is expected to recover.

WCDO NEWS FRIDAY 9-21-18

wcdonews — Fri, 21 Sep 2018 17:45:49 +0000

A former top aide to Governor Cuomo, Joseph Percoco was sentenced to 6 years in prison for fraud and accepting bribes. Percoco was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Valerie Caproni. he was convicted in March of accepting more than $300,000 from companies that wanted influence with the Cuomo administration regarding economic development projects.
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The 4th Annual Sidney Health Fair will be held at Keith Clark Park in Sidney this Saturday, with a host of activities planned, Spokesperson Gabrielle Argo told WCDO News that many organizations are participating:

(Gabrielle Argo 9-21-18)

The event will run from 10:00 to 2:00 PM at Keith Clark Park in Sidney.
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This Saturday, the 23rd annual “Doctors With A Heart” event will be held at Progressive Dental offices at 101 South Broad Street in Norwich, plus at their Kirkwood, Endwell & Montrose Pennsylvania locations. Spokesperson Michelle Parker explains:

(Michelle Parker 9-19-18)

The event will run from 8:00 AM to 12:00 noon, on a first come first served basis, for those with urgent dental needs, who have no money, job, or health care.
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The Unatego Touchdown Club will be holding a 5K run or Walk in Otego this Saturday. Proceeds raised by the event will benefit Unatego Athletic Programs. The run begins at 3:30 PM at the American Legion on Willow Street in Otego, Pre Registration or more information is available at 725-6315 or at the Unatego Touchdown Club” Facebook Page.
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A “Free Weekend at Noah’s World” for Delaware County Residents will be held today through Sunday at their 144 Roundhouse Road location in Oneonta. The free weekend is for Delaware County Residents with Children with Special Health Care Needs, who need help in accessing health care professionals and community resources. The event will run
today until 7:00 pm & Saturday and Sunday, from 1:00 to 5:00 PM. More information is available at noahsworld.net or by calling Delaware County Public Health at (607) 832-5200.
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19th Congressional District Candidates will be debating in Walton on Tuesday, October 16th from 6:30 – 8:30 p.m., at the historic Walton Theatre on Gardiner Place. Congressional candidates who have secured a place on the ballot have been invited, including incumbent John Faso and challengers Antonio Delgado, Steven Greenfield and Diane Neal. The debate is co-sponsored by the League of Women Voters, the Delaware County Farm Bureau and the Delaware County Chamber of Commerce.
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The 2nd Annual Uncle Bear truck Show will be held on Saturday September 22nd at General Clinton Park in Bainbridge, Family Spokesperson Julie Fuller explains:

(Julie Fuller 9-21-18)

Musical acts will include Jason Wicks, Rylee Lum & others, all proceeds will go to the American Cancer Society.
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Last Year, Hurricane Maria plowed through Puerto Rico, making public health conditions for the survivors very poor, with a 1 major Hospital being destroyed, and chronically ill patients are still struggling to get the care they need. 4 Members of Bassett Hospital will be going to Puerto Rico Saturday for about a week; Dr. Celeste Johns is one of the 4:

(Dr. Celeste Johns 9-21-18)

Dr. Chris Kjolhede (Coal-Heed), a Bassett pediatrician is also going:

(Dr. Chris Kjolhede 9-21-18)

Along with Drs Johns & Kjolhede, registered nurses Anna Buell & Rachel Gaston from Bassett will make the trip along with 8 other volunteers from around New York State.
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Live Nation Urban and TCG Entertainment announced that their new production “4U: A Symphonic Celebration of Prince” will come to the Anderson Center for the Performing Arts at Binghamton University Tonight at 7:30pm. Spokesman Chris Bodnarczuk explains:

(Chris Bodnarczuk 9-21-18)

Tickets are available at the Anderson Center Box Office at (607) 777-ARTS or online at anderson.binghamton.edu
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WCDO NEWS WEDNESDAY 9-19-18

wcdonews — Wed, 19 Sep 2018 18:58:45 +0000

The State Department of Health should be doing more to insure that nursing homes are properly inspecting, maintaining and testing their medical equipment, according to an audit released today by State Comptroller Tom DiNapoli. Auditors found that while DOH completes its surveys on time and reports deficient practices to the public, as required, but they only looked at a small number of items in the facilities and could be missing equipment defects. In visits to 36 facilities, auditors found several pieces of poorly maintained equipment, including a transport wheelchair that was covered by rust, mold or mildew, and a suction machine, used to remove airway fluid, covered in dust. The full Audit is available at osc.state.ny.us/audits.
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Delaware County Sheriff’s Deputies and Investigators arrested 49 year old Christopher Knipper of Harpersfield for Criminal Possession of Stolen Property and Falsifying Business Records. Knipper is accused of possessing a stolen motor vehicle that he took to a scrap yard where he had claimed ownership of the vehicle. He was arraigned in the Town of Davenport Court and remanded to the Delaware County Correctional Facility on $10,000 cash or $20,000 secured bond.
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Chenango County Sheriff’s Deputies arrested 33 year old Nicholas Andrews of Preston for criminal sale of a controlled substance & criminal possession of a controlled substance Friday, after deputies executed a Search Warrant. Andrews was arraigned in the Chenango County Court and remanded to the Chenango County Correctional Facility with $12,000 bail. Norwich Police Department and Chenango County District Attorney’s Office assisted with the investigation.
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Delaware County Sheriff’s Deputies arrested 29 year old Shawn Banks of Oneonta for aggravated unlicensed operation of a motor vehicle, following an accident on State Highway 28 in the Town of Meredith. Deputies discovered that Banks had his driving privileges suspended; he was also issued a summons for failure to keep right. Banks was released on tickets and is scheduled to re-appear in the Town of Meredith Court at a later date.
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This Saturday, the 23rd annual “Doctors With A Heart” event will be held at Progressive Dental offices at 101 South Broad Street in Norwich, plus at their Kirkwood, Endwell & Montrose Pennsylvania locations. Spokesperson Michelle Parker explains:

(Michelle Parker 9-19-18)

The event will run from 8:00 AM to 12:00 noon, on a first come first served basis, for those with urgent dental needs, who have no money, job, or health care, services will include cleanings, fillings, extractions, fluoride treatments, and x-rays.
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The State Supreme Court Appellate Division ruled that Actress Diane Neal of Hurley will be on the November ballot as an independent congressional candidate in the 19th District. The state Board of Elections last month rejected over 1,800 of the more than 4,100 signatures on Neal’s petition, on Monday, the state Supreme Court Appellate Division ruled in Neal’s favor in her challenge of the decision. Democrat Antonio Delgado is challenging Republican incumbent John Faso for the 19th Congressional District seat.

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Empire State Development announced that Amphenol Aerospace in Sidney will construct a 5-megawatt solar farm on its industrial campus. The solar farm will utilize a large land site in the Village that would otherwise be unusable because it is located in a floodplain, will provide power to the rest of Amphenol’s operations and will promote stability of the electrical supply as the power generated goes back into the grid-especially during peak usage periods in the summer. The total project cost has been placed between $14 and $15 million. More information is available at esd.ny.gov.
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Chenango County Sheriff’s Department arrested 46 year old Robert Coleman of Smithville for DWI and criminal possession of a controlled substance. Sheriff’s Deputies were patrolling the area of State Hwy 220 in the Town of McDonough when Deputies came across a vehicle that had been involved in an accident. Coleman’s vehicle left the roadway and struck an embankment, he was found to be in possession of methamphetamine. Coleman was processed on the charges and released until a later date in the Town of McDonough Court.
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WCDO NEWS MONDAY 8-20-18

wcdonews — Mon, 20 Aug 2018 18:34:35 +0000

The Otsego County Democratic committee announced that they will hold their annual dinner and Silent Auction on September 8th at the Hunt Union Ballroom at SUNY Oneonta. The special guest will be 19th congressional District candidate Antonio Delgado, who is running against Republican incumbent John Faso in November.
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Broome County District Attorney Steve Cornwell announced that 31 year old Brett Poyer of Port Crane pleaded guilty today to all charges, Poyer was due to stand trial in Broome County Court today. Poyer pleaded guilty to 2nd & 3rd degree criminal possession of a controlled substance, and 3 counts of criminal use of drug Paraphernalia. Poyer was arrested for allegedly operating a Methamphetamine ring that sold Meth along the East Coast; he faces sentencing on October 18th.
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Governor Cuomo is outspending Democratic gubernatorial Race rival Cynthia Nixon by a huge margin, with the Democratic primary less than one month away. Cuomo’s Campaign spent $7.5 million between July 17th & August 13th, while Nixon spent over $600,000 during the same time period. The Governors Campaign fund currently has More than $20 million left, while Nixon’s campaign reported less than $450,000 left for Nixon’s campaign.
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The State of Emergency for 14 counties hit by flash flooding last week, ends tomorrow. Locally, Broome & Chenango Counties suffered significant damage; the counties with the most damage are Cayuga & Seneca Counties.
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Delaware County Sheriff’s Deputies arrested 25 year old Deontre Samuels of Lebanon, Illinois, Thursday for Criminal Mischief and Harassment, following the report of a Domestic incident at the Delaware County Fairgrounds. It is alleged that Samuels engaged his female partner in a physical domestic dispute and also caused damage to the property of the victim. Samuels was arraigned at the Village of Walton Court, he was remanded to the Delaware County Jail on $2000 cash or $4000 bond, pending Action in Village of Walton Court at a later date.
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The City of Oneonta has been awarded a New York State Agriculture and Markets Community Growers Grant in the amount of $25,000 to make improvements to the Community Garden located at the Swart-Wilcox Park on Wilcox Avenue. Work at the garden will include installing a new accessible area with 4 raised table top beds, a new accessible path from the street and sidewalk to the garden, reinforced fencing to keep animals out, extending the water system through the length of the garden, a new shed and Communal gardening equipment, and new picnic tables and benches.
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Catholic Charities will again give away back packs & school supplies to underprivileged children in the Sidney School District this year, Spokesperson Penny McKnight Explains:

(Penny McKnight 8-13-18)

McKnight said that the Sidney office is open Monday Wednesday & Friday; Pre-registration is required by 4:30 this afternoon.
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The Delaware County Chamber of Commerce First Friday Eat & Meet Breakfast will be held at Delaware County FoodWorks+, 27905 State Highway 28 in Andes on Sept. 7 from 8:30 – 10 a.m. The guest speaker for September’s event will be Delaware County Sheriff Craig DuMond, The event Cost is $10 per person and it is sponsored by the Delaware County Industrial Development Agency. More information is available at delawarecounty.org or call 746-2281.
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The Sidney Village Board will meet at 7:00 PM tonight at the Civic Center & they will hold a Public Hearing on Local Law No. 1, which provides new procedures for meter requirements & installation for each water hookup with the Village of Sidney Water System.

WCDO NEWS FRIDAY 8-10-18

wcdonews — Fri, 10 Aug 2018 18:29:32 +0000

State Police arrested 41 year old John Fox of Greene for Criminal Possession of a Firearm and several counts of Criminal Possession of a Weapon, Harassment & Unlawful Possession of Marihuana. The arrest stems from a domestic dispute reported on Monday, where Fox is accused of possessing firearms that were not registered to him. Fox was arraigned in the town of Greene Court he was remanded to the Chenango County Jail on $50,000 cash bail or $100,000 bond penindg court action today.
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The Delaware County Chamber of Commerce & the County Solid Waste Facility on State Highway 10 in Walton, have teamed up for a public open house at the facility on Saturday from 10:00 AM to 12:00 noon. There will be guided tours of the compost facility and recycling center where people can see how solid waste is handled through the sustainable practices of composting, recycling and resource recovery. Reservations are NOT required. More information is available at delawarecounty.org.
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Democratic State Senate Candidate Joyce St. George & 19th Congressional District Democratic Party candidate Antonio Delgado will meet with Oneonta resident this Saturday & Sunday at 2:00 PM. Both candidates will meet with prospective constituents on Ford Avenue, followed by local door to door campaigning. St. George is running against incumbent Republican Jim Seward, Delgado is running against incumbent John Faso.
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The Major’s Inn Foundation in Gilbertsville will hold a “Putting On The Ritz/Great Gatsby” fundraiser Saturday night. The event will begin at 6:30, reservations or more information about the event is available at 371-4030, all proceeds from Saturday’s event will go to ongoing renovations at the Major’s Inn.
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The 2018 Lucas Oil Pro Motocross Championship makes a stop at Unadilla Valley Sports center in New Berlin ,starting today through Sunday, Sports Director Nate Lull has more:

(Nate Lull 8-10-18)

Ticket Information & a full race schedule are available at Unadilla MX.Com.
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Otsego County’s 21st Annual Household Hazardous Waste Days will be held on September 7th and 8th. Otsego County Residents can bring household hazardous waste, such as enamel paints, pesticides, antifreeze, batteries and more FREE of CHARGE for proper disposal. Last year 550 cars from an estimated 600 households brought various hazardous materials for disposal. NO REGISTRATION FOR HOUSEHOLD COLLECTION. Household collections will be held on Friday, September 7th at the Unadilla Town Barn from 8:00AM to 11:00 AM, and Saturday, September 8th at the Meadows Office Complex in Cooperstown from 8:00AM to 1:00PM.
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The Broome County Forum Theater announced that Comedian Jerry Seinfeld will perform at the Forum on Thursday, November 8 at 7:00 PM. Tickets will go on sale at 10 AM Friday, August 17th at the Floyd L. Maines Veterans Memorial Arena Box Office, on Ticketmaster.com, or by phone at 1-800-745-3000.

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State Police responded to a train derailment parallel to State Route 17 in Deposit early Thursday morning. The train was traveling in a westbound direction from New Jersey to Binghamton, heavy rainfall and flooding caused a small section of the NY Southern Railroad line to erode at a culvert overpass making the tracks impassible. The train was hauling 59 cars and 4 locomotives, 16 of them derailed, 2 of the locomotives were leaking diesel fuel into the west branch Delaware River tributary. All of the cargo remained intact and there was no danger to the public. As a precaution, four trailers and one single family residence were evacuated but the residents were told they could return. There were no injuries & Cleanup efforts continue.
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State Police were dispatched to a one fatal accident on Old Route 17 in the town of Windsor. A 43 year old male resident from Windsor was operating a 2005 Dodge Caravan when he went off the roadway for an unknown reason. His vehicle struck several mailboxes, went through a lawn and over a creek landing in a wooded area. Neighbors heard the crash at approximately 10:30 pm Wednesday Night, but were not able to see what occurred, another resident contacted 911 Wednesday morning when they spotted the vehicle. When troopers arrived, the male was obviously deceased. The investigation continues.
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Governor Cuomo today announced that $1.5 million is available for eligible school districts to support the growth of Farm-to-School programs across the State ahead of the upcoming school year. The program helps Kindergarten through Grade 12 schools to increase the volume and variety of locally grown and produced food on school menus, it also assists the agricultural economy, providing additional business to New York’s farmers. Grant funding of up to $100,000 per project will be awarded for Employing a local or regional farm to school coordinator; Training programs for food service staff; & money to expand kitchens & storage for farm products in the schools.
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The City of Oneonta with its contractor, Cobleskill Stone, will be paving streets today & Saturday. The work will be performed between 7:00 AM & 5:00 PM on Oak Street, Spring Street, Grove Street (from Cliff Street to Spring Street) & Grove Street from Main Street to Academy Street. The streets will be closed to traffic during paving operations. More information is available at 432-2100 or dpsinfo@oneonta.ny.us
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WCDO NEWS FRIDAY 8-3-18

wcdonews — Fri, 03 Aug 2018 19:01:00 +0000

Long Time Sidney community leader Roma “Ronnie” Haag died Monday at the age 87. Calling hours will be held today from 2:00 to 4:00pm and 6:00 to 8:00pm at C.H. Landers Funeral Chapel at 21 Main Street in Sidney, A memorial service will be held at 10:30am on Saturday, at St. Luke’s Church at 139 W. Main Street in Sidney, followed by a luncheon. Memorial Donations may be directed to the Tri-Town Youth Club, at 12 Liberty Street Sidney, Haag was a driving force in establishing the clubs presence at its current location, among many other community projects over the years, including the skateboard park in Keith Clark Park.
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Organizers for the 34th Annual Spiedie Fest & Balloon Rally announced that due to the continued heavy rain, Otsiningo Park is closed today & all of today’s scheduled events have been cancelled, with the exception of the KC & The Sunshine Band concert, which has been moved to the Floyd L. Maines Veterans Memorial Arena at 8:00 PM, the doors will open at 7:00 PM. The Spiedie Fest will re-open Saturday Morning at 8:00 AM. Concerts by Phil Vassar on Saturday & Cheap Trick on Sunday are expected to be held as originally scheduled. Updates & changes will be posted at spiediefest.com
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Destination Oneonta’s Fabulous Friday has been postponed until Friday, August 17th due to rainy weather. scheduled events including Tom & Doug’s Cruise-In, live music by Off the Record, and tastings of Awestruck Ciders by Northern Eagle Beverages, will be held on the 17th.
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Delaware County Fair will be running August 13th through the 18th in Walton, Spokesman Jason Craig comments:

(Jason Craig 8-3-18)

This year will be the 132nd edition of the Delaware County fair, last year, about 80,000 people attended over the 6 days of the event.
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The 2nd annual New York State Craft Beer Competition featured 642 New York State-brewed beers. For the second straight year, Brooklyn-based Threes Brewing took home top honors, winning the Governor’s Excelsior Cup. Gold medals were awarded to 23 beers from breweries across the state; including regional brewers Roscoe Beer Company, Good Nature Brewing of Hamilton & Brewery Ommegang of Cooperstown. Since 2012, the number of businesses producing craft beverages has more than doubled, while the number of farm-based manufacturers has increased by over 160%.
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Congressman John Faso announced today that he has challenged all of his opponents for the 19th Congressional District Seat to a series of debates, including Democratic Party primary winner Antonio Delgado, & as well as Green party Candidate Steve Greenfield, & Independents Dal LaMagna, Diane Neal, and Luisa Parker.
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The Sidney Elks Lodge will hold their annual “Looking Back” Car Show & Chicken Barbecue tomorrow, spokesman Mark Little explains:

(Mark Little 8-3-18)

Little said that the event starts at 9:00 AM; Awards will be announced starting at 2:30 PM on the field behind the Elks Lodge on River Street in Sidney.
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The City of the Hills Art & Music Festival will be held in Oneonta tomorrow from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM on Main Street Oneonta. A complete list of activities is available at cityofthehillsartsfestival.com. The event is sponsored by Community Arts Network of Oneonta.
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WCDO NEWS THURSDAY 7-5-18

wcdonews — Thu, 05 Jul 2018 19:47:14 +0000

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

(Rhonda Barriger 7-5-18)

This year is the 129th Afton Fair; more information is available at theaftonfair.com or at the Afton Fair Facebook page.
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A portion of a railroad bridge in downtown Syracuse has collapsed, causing closures in the area & stopping Central New York Rail Traffic this afternoon. Emergency crews blocked off the area of West Onondaga Street and South Clinton Street after part of a bridge collapsed in Syracuse This afternoon at about 1:00 PM. Syracuse
Mayor Ben Walsh said that nobody was hurt in the accident, some utility lines were brought down. The bridge is owned by the New York, Susquehanna and Western Railway.
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Catholic Charities announced that they will hold their Family Color Run Walk on July 21st in Keith Clark par in Sidney. Spokesperson Tracy Martindale said that there is a discount if people sign up to participate by tomorrow:

(Tracy Martindale 7-5-18)

Registration forms can be found at the Oneonta, Sidney or Cobleskill Catholic Charities offices or online at charitiesccdo.org. The race will begin at 9:00 AM on July 21st; registration will begin before the race at 8:15 AM.
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US Senator Chuck Schumer visited Brewery Ommegang in Cooperstown Tuesday, where he discussed a proposal to cut taxes by 50% for the growing number of small breweries opening up across the state. Schumer was also calling for more funding for the Tobacco Trade & Tax Bureau, who are understaffed with inspectors tasked with reviewing & allowing permits for the growing amount of small breweries.
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State DEC Officials announced that 2 men have been charged, for allegedly dumping waste from the power cleaning of the Oneonta High School Track, into the Oneonta creek nearby. John Scott & Victor Doratto of Copeland Coating Company were ticketed for disturbing a protected stream, after local residents reported the change in color of the creek.
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The race for the 19th Congressional District is heating up, after the recent Democratic primary. Both republican Incumbent John Faso & Democratic challenger Antonio Delgado appeared in Oneonta this week, Faso toured Custom Electronics in Oneonta Tuesday, Delgado campaigned in Neahwa Park Wednesday during the annual 4th of July Hometown Festival.
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Bullthistle Brewing Company of Sherburne will be photographed and videotaped on Monday July 9 for the Brew Central national advertising campaign, which brings together the stories behind craft beer, hard cider, wineries and spirits in Central New York with a website and ad placement in some of the nation’s premier beer magazines. Bullthistle Brewing Company will also be featured in the next installment of the YouTube series, “Stories on Tap”, the filming is scheduled for about 5:00 PM Monday at the Company’s site at 45 South Main Street in Sherburne.

=========================

Service arrangements for Trooper Nicholas Clark have been set for Saturday and Sunday. Calling Hours will be held Saturday from 1:00PM to 6:00PM at Alfred University’s Physical Education Center; the Funeral Service will be on Sunday at 11:00 AM at Alfred University’s Physical Education Center. Trooper Clark was fatally shot Monday Morning responding to the report of a suicidal suspect barricaded in his residence, in Steuben County.
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Delaware County Sheriff’s Deputies 22 year old arrested Daniel Tompkins of Gilboa for Criminal Mischief, Tampering with Evidence, Assault, Conspiracy, Tompkins allegedly assaulted an individual after having conspired with others and that Tompkins damaged the property of the assaulted victim with damages estimated to be in excess of $1500.00. Tompkins is accused of altering & hiding evidence from this incident. Tompkins was arraigned at the Town of Stamford Court; he was remanded to the Delaware County Correctional Facility on $15,000 cash bail or $30,000 in bond. He will re-appear in the Town of Stamford Court at a later date.
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Delaware County Sheriff Deputies were dispatched to Delaware Valley Hospital in Walton on June 26th as a result of patients seeking medical treatment following an ATV accident. The Investigation revealed that a 12 year old Walton girl was operating an ATV in the Town of Tompkins when she lost control, left the roadway, traveled down an embankment, overturned and came to a rest in a creek bed. The driver and 2 passengers on the ATV, 42 year old Beth Czerniak and an 8 year old girl, all 3 were treated at Delaware Valley Hospital. Czerniak was later transported to Wilson Hospital, Johnson City, for further treatment of a head injury. Deputies have arrested Beth Czerniak of Walton for 2 counts of endangering the welfare of a child and for numerous other traffic charges, she will appear in Town of Tompkins Court at a later date to answer the charges.

WCDO NEWS WEDNESDAY 6-27-18

wcdonews — Wed, 27 Jun 2018 18:42:46 +0000

The Norwich Gus Macker tournament has extended the deadline for teams to register, and volunteers are needed for a host of jobs at this year’s Macker, according to organizer Tom Revoir:

(Tom Revoir 6-27-18)

The Annual Macker Tournament benefits the Norwich YMCA, an estimated 1,200 players have already signed up for the 3 on 3 Basketball tournament in Norwich on July 14th & 15th. Those who want to volunteer can call Revoir at the Norwich YMCA at 336-9622, extension 29.
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The Broome County District Attorney’s office announced that 27 year old Thomas Sessions of Whitney Point was arraigned Wednesday in Broome County Court, in connection with a March 23rd attack that seriously injured a Lisle resident. Sessions was located earlier this month in Arizona and taken into custody. The grand jury indictment charges Sessions with attempted 2nd degree murder, 1st degree assault, & attempted 1st & 2nd degree assault; he is accused of striking the victim in the head after knocking on the victim’s door & claiming to have a disabled vehicle.
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A new report released Monday by a coalition of New York State law enforcement officials, public health experts and elected officials, showed that The Delaware County had the highest rates of gun-related suicide and homicide. The research focused at the rate of homicide and suicide in each county from 2012 to 2016, the report showed that for every 100,000 residents of Delaware County, there were 13.4 gun-related deaths, & the a rate of suicide by gun at 12.9. Other counties that ranked high were Allegany, Wyoming, Cattaraugus and Sullivan counties. New York State’s overall gun-related death rate was 4.4 deaths per 100,000 residents, which is below the national average of 11.8 deaths per 100,000 residents.
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Governor Cuomo announced the launch of Open FOIL NY, to provide access to public records in New York. Open FOIL NY offers an open-access online form to request records from up to 3 agencies simultaneously, Access & contact information for 59 State agencies and authorities, and direct access to a growing body of online information and resources.
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The Chenango County Sheriff’s Office arrested 19 year old Cordell Witherow of Plymouth for 3rd degree Assault. Witherow is accused of causing serious physical injury to an unidentified male victim. Witherow was released on an appearance ticket and is to appear in the Town of Plymouth Court at a later date.
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Chenango County Sheriff’s Department arrested 24 year old Cara Kaskeski of Mount Vision, for Welfare Fraud & Offering a False Instrument for Filing. Kaskeski allegedly collected more than $9,000 in child care assistance from July 2014 through November 2017 which she was not entitled to receive, she was issued appearance tickets to appear in the City of Norwich Court at a later date.
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The next meeting of the Tri-Town Coalition on Substance Abuse Prevention will be held at Track Side Dining on Main Street in Sidney this evening. The meeting will run from 6:00 to 7:30 PM, participants are invited to use the rear entrance.
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Antonio Delgado of Rhinebeck won the 19th Congressional District Democratic Primary yesterday; he will face Republican incumbent John Faso in November. Delgado beat out 6 other Democrats to win the primary. The 19th district will be one of the most-watched races in the country
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US Postal Inspectors, State Police CNET, Homeland Security Investigators (HSI), Vestal Police Department and the Broome County Drug Task Force made a controlled delivery of a package containing approximately 250 grams of Ecstasy to a residence in Binghamton. Following the delivery, a search was conducted at the home of 32 year old Andrew Davis, A search of the residence leads to the recovery of the package, digital scales, cellphone, & other items, Davis was charged with Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance, he was arraigned and was remanded to the Broome County Jail without bail.
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Delaware County Sheriff Deputies arrested 42 year old Patrick Renner Jr. of Stamford for Aggravated Unlicensed Operation of a Motor Vehicle, Operating a Motor Vehicle without an Ignition Interlock Device, Unlicensed Operation of a Motor Vehicle & violating the terms of his probation. Renner is accused of driving a vehicle on Main Street in the Village of Stamford on Thursday with a revoked driver’s license and without an ignition interlock device, from a previous DWI conviction. Renner was arraigned and was remanded to the Delaware County Correctional Facility without bail pending further court action.
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State Police arrested 36 year old Jennifer Grant of Westford for DWI, Operating a Vehicle While Registration Suspended, & Unlawful Possession of Marihuana, plus numerous traffic tickets. Troopers stopped Grant while on Otsego County Highway 34 after they observed her cross the center line and drive onto the shoulder. Grant was released to a sober third party and given appearance tickets to the town of Westford Court on July 17th.
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State Police arrested 35 year old Todd Bailey of Cobleskill for felony Criminal Mischief, plus 3rd degree Assault & Endangering the Welfare of a Child. Troopers were dispatched to Gilbert Lake Park in the town of Laurens for a domestic dispute involving several people; Bailey is accused of having a physical altercation with several family members, including a child under the age of 17, and causing damage to a vehicle. Bailey was arraigned in the town of Laurens Court and was released in his recognizance, pending court action Thursday
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Delaware County Public Health and Delaware Opportunities will be holding a free Car Seat Safety Event at Delaware Opportunities 35430 NY-10, in Hamden, today from 10:00 AM to 1:00 PM. Parents and caregivers can have their child’s car seat checked at no cost by certified child safety seat technicians. Car seats which do not meet the Federal Motor Safety Standard may be replaced; more information is available at 832-5200.

WCDO NEWS TUESDAY 6-12-18

wcdonews — Tue, 12 Jun 2018 18:34:44 +0000

Governor Cuomo announced a $62 million investment for the Pedestrian Safety Action Plan, to utilize engineering, education and enforcement campaigns to enhance pedestrian safety across the state. More than $22 million is already being used for the 1st projects on state roads, while $40 million is being invested to enhance pedestrian safety on local roadways. In the Southern Tier; Work will begin soon to make $3.8 million in safety upgrades at 123 locations, 48 sites this year & another 75 sites to be completed in the summer of 2019.
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The contract to keep the Veterans Affairs Clinic on State Route 7 in Bainbridge will expire at the end of the year, they see between 75 to 100 Veterans a day, and are scheduled to get a 2nd doctor to serve their, yet the facility may be moved to Oneonta. Ruth Tompkins of Chenango Links said that their group is trying to keep the clinic in Bainbridge:

(Ruth Tompkins 6-12-18)

Tompkins said that Chenango Links is urging area veterans & residents to contact Congresswoman Claudia Tenney or Congressman John Faso to try to get the Bainbridge clinic, with 2 doctors, renewed before the end of the year. Tompkins said that such efforts worked in 2014, when then-Congressman Richard Hanna successfully kept the clinic from moving from Bainbridge.
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Oneonta-area non-profit organizations are getting an assist from students in a Hartwick College grant writing class. Students in the “Introduction to Grant Writing” class, partner with a local organization with the goal of developing and submitting a grant proposal on their behalf. This year, 6 students assisted: Girls on the Run, the EDD Memorial Fund, Valleyview Elementary School, the Oneonta Fire Department, and the College’s own Yager Museum of Art & Culture with grant writing assistance. More information is available at 431-4422.
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The National Baseball Hall Of Fame announced that the 2018 Inductees Exhibit is open and will remain on display through May 2019. The exhibit is located on the first floor & features a display for Vladimir Guerrero, Trevor Hoffman, Chipper Jones, Jack Morris, Jim Thome and Alan Trammell. The exhibit is accompanied by a highlight video for each member of the Class of 2018. The 2018 Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony will be held at 1:30 PM on July 29 at the Clark Sports Center in Cooperstown and will be shown live on MLB Network. More than 50 Hall of Famers are expected to attend, more information is available at baseballhall.org.
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State DEC Commissioner Basil Seggos announced $4 million in grant funding for generators of excess wholesome food and food scraps to expand their capacity to donate it to organic recycling facilities. An estimated 40% of the food produced in the United States goes uneaten while about 2.5 million New Yorkers go hungry. Seggos said that much of the wasted food is disposed of in solid waste landfills where its decomposition accounts for more than 15% of emissions of methane, which is a potent greenhouse gas. More information is available at rit.edu.
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A.O. Fox Hospital is offering training for individuals interested in becoming junior volunteers. The training is scheduled for Tuesday, July 10, from 8:30 am to 3:30 pm in A.O. Fox Hospital’s Education Department. Applicants must be at least 14 years of age, Applications are available in the guidance offices of Oneonta Community Christian School, as well as the Oneonta, Unatego, Charlotte Valley, Franklin, Laurens, Gilbertsville–Mt. Upton, Morris and Edmeston Schools. More information is available at 431-5042.
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Cornell Cooperative Extension of Delaware County will be sponsoring farmers’ markets for the 2018 season in Sidney, Walton and Deposit. The Sidney Farmers Market will be held at the Video Entertainment parking lot, 89 Main Street Every other Tuesday from July 10 to September 18, the Walton Farmers Market will be at the Veterans Plaza, 181 Delaware Street, Every other Friday from July 6 to September 28, & the Deposit Farmers Market will be at the First United Methodist Church, on August 16 & September 20, all Markets are open from 10:00 to 2:00 pm.

WCDO NEWS THURSDAY 4-19-18

wcdonews — Thu, 19 Apr 2018 20:01:13 +0000

Governor Cuomo signed the New York Democracy Protection Act Wednesday, which calls on all political advertising in print, TV & radio to disclose the organization or individual paying for that ad. The Act also amends the definition of “political communication” to include paid Internet and digital advertisements, it ensures foreign entities cannot form an independent expenditure committee and purchasing political ads to influence elections; Requires all digital ad buyers to register as an independent expenditure committee, Requires paid independent political online ads to clearly display that the ad was not authorized by any candidate; and Directs the State Board of Elections to create an online archive of all political communications in order to make them transparent and accessible to the press, fact-checkers, political opponents and the public.
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The slow start of Spring weather is forcing a slow start to the racing season at Afton Motorsports Park, spokesman Ron Ford explains:

(Ron Ford 4-19-18)

Ford said that the special events scheduled for later in the season should not be affected by the late start to the season.
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Hartwick College will host a Rural Prosperity Forum on Infrastructure, presented by the US Department of Agriculture Rural Development Office and Congressman John Faso. The Topics of discussion will include innovative partnerships that have been developed to overcome challenges in rural areas and exploring best practices to build and support economic development. The event will run from 9:00 AM to 11:00 AM Friday at the Shineman Chapel House on the Hartwick College campus, the public is welcome to attend.
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The Bainbridge Girls Scouts are coordinating Their Annual Community Giveaway to be held this Saturday, spokesperson Jessica Chambers explains:

(Jessica Chambers 4-19-18)

Those wishing to Drop Off gently used items can do so Friday from 3:30 to 6:00 PM or Saturday between 8:30 to 9:00 AM The giveaway will then be held from 9:00 AM to 12:00 Noon at the GreenLawn Elementary School, more information is available at 267-2378.

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A Chenango County jury found Jeremy Coates of Norwich guilty of the murder of David Green in Oxford in 2016. Coates and his girlfriend Melissa Crispell robbed Green, Coates beating him 20 times with various weapons, Crispell pleaded guilty to robbery last May, in a plea deal in exchange for her testimony against Coates, Sentencing for Coates is scheduled for June 1st.
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The “Seen Enough” Tobacco Presentation will be held at the Sidney Library This evening, Linda Wegner is the Program Director of Advancing Tobacco Free Communities in Delaware, Otsego and Schoharie Counties:

(Linda Wegner 4-18-18)

Wegner’s special guests at the presentation will be Former Sidney Business Owner Whit Whitaker & his wife Rosemary; the program will start at 6:30 PM at the Sidney Memorial Public Library.
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Chenango Links & the Chenango Arts Council present the Documentary “UNFRACTURED” at the Martin W. Kappel Theater tonight, which follows the story of Biologist Sandra Steingraber, who helped get Hydraulic Fracturing banned in New York State, she talked to WCDO News about her efforts & the movie:

(Sandra Steingraber 4-18-18)

The movie director was Chanda Chevannes of Toronto Canada, she told WCDO News about the film:

(Chanda Chevannes 4-18-18)

Both Steingraber & Chevannes will be at the screening of “Unfractured” tonight in Norwich, the movie starts at 7:00 PM, more information is available at chenangolinks.com or unfractured.com.
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Afton village residents, business owners & property owners are encouraged to attend the unveiling of the Economic Revitalization Strategic Plan draft & the Water/ Flooding Study this evening at the Bolster Community Center. The program will begin at 7:00 PM; more information is available at 639-4849.
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The Otsego County Chamber of Commerce & the Otsego-Delaware Job Service Employer committee is co-hosting a free “Opioid Crisis in the Workplace” discussion, with featured speaker, attorney Theresa Levine of Coughlin & Gerhart. The event will be held from 8:30 AM to 12:00 Noon at the Otsego Chamber offices at 189 Main Street in Oneonta.
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Delaware County Public Health is hosting a Free Rabies Vaccination Clinic today for dogs, cats and ferrets. The Clinic will run from 5:00 to 7:00 PM, at the Pindars Corners Fire Hall on State Highway 23, in the town of Davenport, more information is available at 832-5200 or delawarecountypublichealth.com
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WCDO NEWS MONDAY 11-13-17

wcdonews — Mon, 13 Nov 2017 19:55:53 +0000

Closing arguments ended this morning & the Jury received their orders this afternoon, as the trial of Ramadan Abdullah draws to a conclusion in Broome County Court. Abdullah was originally charged in June & was indicted on 15 counts of Criminal possession of a weapon among other charges, for having a stockpile of weapons stored in various locations around Broome County.
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The State Office of Alcoholism and Substance Abuse Services announced the availability of funding to establish or expand services for youth and young adults in recovery from addiction. Up to 15 projects will be awarded up to $12,000 each. This funding is part of the $25.2 million federal State Targeted Response Grant that New York State received in early 2017. More information is available at FindAddictionTreatment.ny.gov.
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The Oxford and McDonough Communities are invited to the 33rd annual Free Thanksgiving Dinner, served from 12:00 noon to 1:00 PM on Thursday, November 23 at St. Joseph’s Church. Volunteers are needed to assist in serving and in the kitchen; more information is available at 843-6249. Free will donations will be accepted at the NBT Bank in Oxford.
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Several state lawmakers have written to Governor Cuomo and the state’s top corrections official to urge them to end solitary confinement of prisoners. More than 40 members of the Senate and Assembly claimed that the practice of isolating inmates for long periods of time amounts to torture, Cuomo’s administration insists it has taken significant steps to end traditional solitary confinement with new rules and standards for when a person may be placed in isolation.
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The 2017 regular deer and bear hunting seasons in New York’s Southern Zone begin at sunrise this Saturday through Sunday, December 10th. The Southern Zone regular season is New York’s most popular hunting season; approximately 85 percent of New York’s 575,000 licensed hunters participate. in the Southern Zone, late bow hunting and muzzle loading seasons will run from December 11th through December 19th this year. Hunters should refer to the 2017-2018 Hunting and Trapping Regulations Guide at dec.ny.gov.
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Congressman John Faso of the 19th Congressional district announced a live meeting on the current tax reform proposal tomorrow evening at 6:55pm. Those who would like to participate can sign up by faso.house.gov.signs up will continue until 3:00 pm Tuesday

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Governor Cuomo signed 5 bills Saturday on Veteran’s day, to support the Veterans living in New York:

(Cuomo 11-13-17)

There are 770,000 veterans in New York State, 28 of the 29 states with medical marijuana programs will now allow patients with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder to qualify. Other bills signed Saturday include Providing combat veterans employed by the State with additional days of paid leave to obtain health services, counseling and access to other benefits & Waiving the civil service examination fee for veterans who were honorably discharged;
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Binghamton Police arrested a 66-year-old Ronald Cook of Utica at the Little Venice Restaurant in Binghamton Saturday afternoon. Cook is a Level 3 sex offender who removed his GPS ankle bracelet and didn’t report to his parole officer Wednesday, sparking a state wide manhunt. Cook was convicted of raping a 24-year-old woman in Binghamton in 1990; he was also convicted in 1988 of first-degree sexual abuse and impersonating a police officer.

WCDO NEWS TUESDAY 3-21-17

wcdonews — Tue, 21 Mar 2017 18:46:09 +0000

Governor Cuomo & State health officials held a press conference this morning, blasting Congressman Chris Collins of Buffalo and area congressman John Faso for supporting the House Republican health care bill and the push to have the state assume county Medicaid costs.

(Cuomo 3-21-17)

The Governor stated that over 4 years New York State would lose $4.6 billion and lose at least $2.4 billion a year by fiscal year 2020. The Collins-Faso amendment would stop the counties from paying a share of Medicaid, which would cost upstate counties is 2.3 Billion Dollars.
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Conference committee activity will continue among lawmakers in Albany through the end of the month, local assemblyman Cliff Crouch has been assigned to serve on some committees, he said that the Agriculture portion of the budget should be favorable this year:

(Crouch 3-21-17)

The Governor’s Budget proposal increased spending by 1.9% over last year, with over 152 billion dollars in spending, the deadline to pass the budget is April 1st.
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The Tri-Town Coalition on Substance Abuse Prevention will hold their annual dinner & Prevention education night Wednesday night at the Sidney High School. Coalition President Lorraine Keckeisen told WCDO about the guest speakers & other items of interest:

(Lorraine Keckesien 3-21-17)

More information is available at 561-7707.
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The Oneonta City Commission of Community Relations & Human Rights announced that they have selected Carla Balnis & Luisa Montanti as the “Over 25” recipients of the “Women’s Trailblazer” award, and Judy Morales as the Under 25 recipient. The women will be honored with a ceremony at 6:30 PM tonight in the lobby of City hall, prior to tonight’s Oneonta Common Council meeting at 7:00 PM.
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The State DOT will hold a public open house meeting on Thursday, March 23 to discuss plans to replace a bridge on State Route 7 in the village of Afton. The meeting will be held at the Afton Town Hall, from 5:30-7:00 pm. The bridge in question was built in 1922 and carries State Route 7 over Kelsey Brook. The bridge is safe for continued travel and is regularly inspected.
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Chenango County Sheriff Ernest Cutting encourages residents to support the State Sheriff’s Institute, during their membership drive currently underway. The Sheriffs Institute has numerous programs, including the Sheriff’s Summer Camps, the Criminal Justice Scholarship Program & the Victim Notification program. More information is available at sheriffsinstitute.org.

State Police located wanted subject Troy Maloney of Hampton, New Hampshire operating a motor vehicle on Interstate 88 in the Town of Colesville. Maloney was wanted by the State of Massachusetts for Arson to a Dwelling, Troopers stopped the vehicle Maloney was traveling in and arrested him without incident. Maloney was arraigned as a Fugitive From Justice in Town of Colesville Court and remanded to the Broome County Jail in lieu of bail pending an extradition hearing.
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State Senator Jim Seward has been named co-chairman of the general government/local assistance budget conference committee and will also serve as a member of the education budget conference committee. The conference committees are made up of five senators and five assemblymen tasked with negotiating budget differences between the houses, in concert with the governor, to develop a final spending plan. The conference committees conduct open, public meetings, which can be viewed on-line at www.nysenate.gov.
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The Arc Otsego, in partnership with the Office for People with Developmental Disabilities is holding a free Front Door Information Session from 4:00 to 6:00 PM today for individuals and families regarding access to services through OPWDD. The session will be held at The Arc Otsego, located at 35 Academy Street in Oneonta.
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The Unadilla Chamber of Commerce will have its next regular meeting today at Green’s Long River Inn, State Route 357, in Unadilla beginning at 8:15 am. Nominations for Business of the Years and Good Neighbor/Commitment to Community are to be turned in at this meeting for selection with honorees to be honored at the Annual Dinner meeting on Sunday, April 23 at the Unadilla Methodist Church, Main Street, Unadilla. All members and directors are urged to attend.
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Many area villages will hold elections for local positions today. many of the races have candidates running unoopposed, In Sidney Andrew Skrobanski is running unopposed for Village court justice, in Milford Taylor Brose, Michael Strong & William Tallman are running for 2 seats on the village board.
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The Next Commerce Chenango Business After Hours will be today, co-hosted by the Binghamton Rumble Ponies at The Stadium in Oxford. The staff of the Rumble Ponies will discuss various promotions & the changes at NYSEG Stadium. More information is available at 334-1400.

WCDO NEWS THURSDAY 2-23-17

wcdonews — Thu, 23 Feb 2017 19:18:45 +0000

Oneonta Police responded Wednesday to a vehicle fire on Burnside Avenue in the City of Oneonta. Police said that a 2009 Subaru Forester was fully engulfed, The Oneonta Fire Department extinguished the blaze & officers conducted a neighborhood canvass. 31-year-old Jonathan Delgado, of Oneonta, was charged with 3rd degree Arson & Criminal Mischief. Delgado was arraigned in Oneonta City Court & was remanded to the custody of the Otsego County Sheriff Department. The investigation is continuing
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Plans are in the works to transport the mobile Veterans wall to be displayed in Oneonta over the Memorial Day weekend, spokesman Gene Schmidt explains:

(Gene Schmidt 2-23-17)

Schmidt said that they need over 150 to 200 volunteers to man the facility, those wishing to volunteer can sign up at 607-610-4030, or FriendsofOneonta.com
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The inaugural season of the Binghamton Rumble ponies will begin in April, with many upgrades at NYSEG Stadium, according to team spokesman Ed Saunders:

(Ed Saunders 2-23-17)

Details & tickets are available at 722- FUNN, BingRP.com. or at the stadium box office.
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U.S Senator Kirsten Gillibrand will promote a bill to protect seniors form financial scams, by changing the way senior financial abuse if reported, and to establish a national hotline for seniors. Gillibrand said that she wants to have those services provided to fight the financial exploitation of seniors, who have been especially targeted by scammers in recent years.
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Governor Cuomo plans to dedicate $32 million dollars in federal funding to improve public transpiration in the state’s rural areas. Como said that the funding will be targeted for small city bus lines, regional transportation authorities and public transportation programs, in order to connect rural residents to their nearest small cities.
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Many members of the Congress & Senate have cancelled “Town Hall Meetings” in their home district while they are off this week. Freshman Congress members John Faso of the 19th District, and Claudia Tenney of the 22nd district have not scheduled town hall meetings this week, Tenney’s Washington office announced that they have received threats, they announced that Tenney was looking to set up a telephone conference call town hall meeting in the coming months.
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Fire departments in & around Chenango county were kept busy Wednesday afternoon. Firefighters responded to a house fire at 266 Kilroy Road in Oxford, a stove fire at 11 South Main Street in Bainbridge, and another house fire at 389 County Road 27 in Coventry, all toned out within a 30 minute time frame. Chenango County EMS stated that firefighters from Coventry, Afton, Greene, Sidney, Bainbridge, Masonville, Oxford, Guilford, Norwich, Brisben, Preston and the Chenango County Bureau of Fire responded to all calls, no injuries were reported.
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State Attorney General Eric Schneiderman responded to a congressional inquiry, making clear that there was not one single substantiated claim of voter fraud in New York last year. Schneiderman wrote that the state’s voting system actually has restrictive laws, rules and procedures, as well as administrative errors, that both legally and illegally keep many New Yorkers from voting. Schneiderman also recently filed suit against the New York City Board of Elections for widespread violations that illegally purged over 200,000 New Yorkers from the voter rolls.
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Governor Cuomo is calling for cuts in state funding for $25 million from 39 public health programs that fight cancer, diabetes and other conditions. Cuomo’s administration said it will be up to state health officials to decide where to make the reductions, which are intended to make public health spending more efficient. Cuomo’s $152 billion budget proposal actually increases health care spending overall.