The Deposit Fire Department and Eastern Broome Emergency Services responded to a house fire in the Town of Sanford, Oquaga Lake Road was closed between Old Route 17 and Hanson Road. No injuries were reported, the structure sustained significant fire damage. Mutual aid was provided by fire fighters from Windsor, West Windsor, Harpursville, Ouaquaga and Afton.

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Agriculture in New York state paid close to $1 billion in wages and produced roughly $3.3 billion in gross domestic product in 2021, according to a report by New York State Comptroller Thomas P. DiNapoli. The sector has proved to be among the most resilient during the COVID-19 pandemic, losing just 1% of jobs in 2020 compared to the statewide annual employment loss of 8.7%. Both employment and wages in the farming sector grew in 2021 to reach new highs of 23,868 employees and $970.2 million in wages.

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Broome County District Attorney Mike Korchak announced that 32 year old Amanda Hoyt of Binghamton, pleaded guilty to the felony offense of Attempted Burglary in the Second Degree. In January, Hoyt illegally entered a St. Charles Street apartment in the Village of Johnson City and struck the resident in the arm with a hammer causing injury. Hoyt is a Second Violent Felony Offender and will be sentenced to 5 years in state prison on November 15th.

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Delaware County Sheriff’s Deputies responded to a Fight-in-Progress Complaint in the Hamlet of Arkville on July 16th. Rolland Billadeau of Shandaken allegedly pushed and struck the victim, Billadeau was located on August 21st and was served with a criminal summons on the charge of Harassment in the Second Degree. Billadeau is scheduled to appear before the Town of Middletown Court at a later date to answer for the charge. Sheriff’s Deputies were assisted by members of the New York State Police.

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The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service issued a public health alert for Perdue’s frozen ready-to-eat chicken breast tenders “gluten free”, They may be contaminated with small pieces of clear plastic and blue dye. Officials advise that consumers return the product to the store where it was purchased or throw it away.

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Hospice & Palliative Care of Chenango County are collecting items for their 2022 home made sale, which will be held in October, Hospice Spokesperson Sarah Green told WCDO News what kind of home made items they are looking for:

(Sarah Green 8-24-22)

Green said that the Items must be in to Hospice by September 23rd, the sale will be held at the hospice location at 33- 39 Court Street in Norwich on October 15th from 9:30 AM to 3:00 PM, more information is available at 334-3556.

A.M. NEWS WEDNESDAY 8-24-22

The Election results have been tabulated; in the 19th Congressional District, special election, Pat Ryan appears to have defeated Republican Marcus Molinaro to fill the Congressional seat through the end of this year. 51st State Senate District, incumbent Republican Peter Oberacker won & will be on the ballot in November. In the 52nd State Senate District, Lea Webb won the Democratic party nomination, and will face Republican Rich David in November. In the 19th Congressional District, the Democratic Party Primary Josh Riley is the winner & he will appear on the Ballot in November for the term starting January 1st 2023.

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Delaware County Public Health will host a Free Rabies Vaccination Clinic For dogs, cats and ferrets today from 5:00 to 7:00 PM in Delhi. The clinic will be held at the Delhi Fire Hall, 140 Delview Terrace Extension, more information is available at 607-832-5200 or at delawarecountypublichealth.com

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More American Red Cross Blood Drives are scheduled locally today, one will be held in Walton from 12:00 Noon until 5:00 PM at the New Hope Community Church, 45 Stockton Avenue, another will be held in Cooperstown, from 9:00 AM to 2:00 PM at St Mary’s Roman Catholic Church on Elm Street. Donors can schedule an appointment to give using the Red Cross Blood Donor App, by visiting RedCrossBlood.org or by calling 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767).

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The State Department of Health will be operating a COVID-19 vaccination clinic on the grounds of the Great New York State Fair in Syracuse during its entire 13-day run, beginning August 24. The clinic will be open from 10:00 A.M. to 6:00 P.M. every day of the fair, inside the Exposition Center. Access to the clinic is included with Fair admission. There is no charge for the vaccines or boosters.

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The Ricky J. Parisian Memorial Scholarship Foundation announced today that they will retire the annual “Pit Run” event. The Pit Run began in 1994, shortly after the death of Investigator Parisian of the State Police, when he attempted to stop an armed robbery in an Oneonta Grocery store. The foundation will continue to operate by raising money for a scholarship available to graduates of the Oneonta School District

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Delaware County Sheriff’s Deputies received information that 61-year old Alden Briggs had an active Bench Warrant out of the Village of Johnson City Court due to a failure to appear in court in connection with a charge of Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance. After receiving information about his whereabouts, Delaware County Sheriff’s Deputies located Briggs at a Deposit residence last Thursday, he was arrested on the Bench Warrant & was turned over to the Broome County Sheriff’s Office for arraignment.

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Delaware County Sheriff’s Deputies were notified Friday by the Delaware County Family Court that an Arrest Warrant had been issued for 36-year-old Terriann Conolly for failure to appear in the Delaware County Family Court. Deputies located Conolly in the Town of Walton and arrested her on the Arrest Warrant. Connolly was arraigned in Delaware County Family Court, and released on her own recognizance, she will re-appear in the Delaware County Family Court at a later scheduled date.

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The Sidney Chamber of Commerce is accepting nominations for the Business and Citizen of the Years Awards. Sidney Chamber President Teri Schunk explains:

(Teri Schunk 2-8-22)

Nominations forms can downloaded from the Sidney Chamber website or Facebook page & then sent to the Sidney Chamber by Friday, March 11th, at PO Box 57, Sidney NY 13838 or emailed to office@sidneychamber.org.

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Federally provided N95 masks will be distributed for free at Price Chopper stores this week. Tables will be set up at the center of the stores or at the pharmacies starting Today, each customer will receive up to 3 of the N95 masks. The N95 masks offer the highest level of protection against COVID-19.

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The U.S. Department of Agriculture has confirmed COVID 19 infections in deer in 13 additional states, including New York. White-tailed deer on Staten Island have been found carrying the highly transmissible Omicron variant of the coronavirus, marking the first time the variant has been reported in wild animals.

A.M. NEWS TUESDAY 2-8-22

Governor Hochul & the State Health Department reported 3,795 new COVID Cases Statewide Sunday, Lowest number since November 8th. New Cases are Down by More than 40% Over Past Week, Statewide COVID-19 Hospitalizations Down Nearly 30% Over Past Week, there were 90 COVID-19 Deaths Statewide Sunday.

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State Troopers in Troop “C” responded to 95 traffic related incidents in their 7 County region, during the winter storm that hit the area between February 3rd and February 5th . In Chenango, Delaware and Otsego counties, troopers responded to 13 disabled vehicle complaints, 28 crashes with property damage and one crash that resulted in an injury.

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U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand, chair of the Senate Armed Services Personnel Subcommittee, held a video press conference to address the rising rate of suicide in the military, the Department of Defense released its annual report on suicide, showing that 580 service members died by suicide in 2020, a large increase from 2019’s report of 498 service members. Gillibrand said that she told top Military Brass this week that mental health issues can no longer be swept under the rug:

(Gillibrand 9-30-21)

Gillibrand said that 3 10th Mountain Division soldiers at Fort Drum lost their lives to suicide within 48 hours, two weeks ago & She is also renewing her push to pass the Brandon Act, named in Brandon Castera’s honor, which would expand access to mental health care services for active-duty military personnel, including access to confidential mental health evaluation referrals without fear of retaliation.

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Governor Kathy Hochul today announced that because of the low percentage of 12 to 18 year old getting vaccinated against COVID 19, more & more pop up vaccination sites will be set up at school around the state:

(Hochul 9-30-21)

Hochul said that the statewide positivity rate on COVID tests has been hovering around 2.8% for the last week, State officials are also working at getting pop up vaccination sites at houses of worship around the state, to continue to get the percentage of New Yorkers vaccinated higher & higher.

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The Raymond Corporation will host a virtual Manufacturing Day event tomorrow, between 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. This is the 2nd year that Raymond’s Manufacturing Day will be an entirely digital and virtual event, Raymond Executive Vice President of Human Resources Steve VanNostrand told WCDO news about the event:

(Steve Van Nostrand 9-29-21)

Van Nostrand said that Raymond is looking to add to their workforce over the next years & decades, Overall, manufacturers seek to fill 4.6 million jobs over the next decade.

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Governor Kathy Hochul today announced $45 million in state grant funding has been awarded to counties statewide for improving the operability of emergency communications across the State. This funding will enable local governments to expand their ability to communicate, exchange valuable data, and streamline information to enhance collaboration and assist first responders. Locally, Broome County receives $710,422, Chenango County gets $511,743, Delaware County gets $604,415 & Otsego County receives $663,885.

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Delaware County Public Health reported 29 new cases of COVID 19 on Tuesday & Wednesday, with a positivity rate over 8%. Public Health reports 145 active cases, 6 are hospitalized & 320 quarantined. Only 50.6% of the total population are vaccinated, 74% of the positive cases are unvaccinated 26% of the positive cases are Pre-K-12th students/employees

A.M. NEWS WEDNESDAY 9-30-21

The American Red Cross continues to ask for eligible people to donate blood, as blood supplies are at their lowest since the summer of 2015 locally. Blood Drives are being held locally today in Morris from 12:00 PM to 5:00 PM at the Zion Episcopal Church, at 162 Main Street, and in South Kortright from 11:30 AM to 5:30 PM at the South Kortright Central School on State Highway 10. Appointments can be made by using the Red Cross Blood Donor App, visiting RedCrossBlood.org or calling 1-800-RED CROSS.

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State Police were dispatched to State Route 28 in Andes for a State DOT truck struck by a vehicle. An investigation at the scene revealed that 4 DOT workers were in a truck retrieving cones in a work zone. 2 of the occupants of the DOT truck exited the vehicle when a 43-year-old male rear ended it. The 43-year-old male was not injured. The driver of the DOT truck, a 53-year-old male sustained a shoulder injury, A 24-year-old male passenger in the DOT truck was not injured, the 2 DOT workers that had stepped out were injured after they jumped over the guiderail; one had a minor Knee injury, the other sustained a laceration to the arm, he was transported to O’Connor Hospital for further medical care. Impairment was not a factor in the crash.

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The Northeast Classic Car Museum announced today is the last day to purchase a raffle tickets for the 1970 Candy Apple Red Ford Mustang convertible. The drawing will be held at 10:00 am on Thursday, October 7th in the Lobby of the Museum on Rexford Street in Norwich, to enter and for Official Rules visit classiccarmuseum.org, Tickets must be purchased or postmarked by 4:00 PM today.

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A new study conducted by the U.S. Department of Agriculture appears to indicate white-tailed deer can carry the COVID-19 virus, but health officials say the chances of a human getting infected by a COVID-positive deer are low, but they still urge hunters to take precautions. The study analyzed serum samples from free-ranging white-tailed deer in four states, New York, Pennsylvania, Michigan and Illinois, 40% of deer tested were positive for antibodies, meaning they had been exposed to the virus at some point. The New York Department of Environmental Conservation said that the risk of animals spreading COVID-19 to people is low.

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Democratic Candidate for Norwich Mayor, John Quattrocchi is hosting a Town Hall meeting tonight from 6:30 – 8:30 PM, at Creative Works & The Artist’s Palette at 17 & 19 South Broad Street in Norwich. Quattrocchi faces Republican Brian Doliver on Election Day in November,

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The State Health Department reports that 95% of Recent COVID Positive tests are linked to the Delta Variant. So far, More Than 23 Million Vaccine Shots have been delivered Statewide, with over 52,000 Vaccine Doses Administered Over the most recent 24 Hour period. Over 156,000 people were tested for COVID Tuesday. With over 4700, or just over 3% testing positive. 75 more New Yorkers were hospitalized bring the total close to 1900, over 380 patients are in ICU Beds, 157 are on ventilators. There were 20 COVID deaths reported.

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New York State 1st Responders & Law Enforcement Agencies Are Gearing up For action that may be necessary due to the heavy downpours that may come from Tropical Storm Fred. The State Department of Transportation will be patrolling areas susceptible to flooding. State Police has instructed all Troopers to remain vigilant and closely monitor conditions for any problems. Additional personnel will be deployed to affected areas as needed, including in the Southern Tier, Central New York. All four-wheel drive vehicles and all specialty vehicles, including Utility Terrain Vehicles, are in-service. Utility companies are urged to be ready to respond for issues masticated with flash flooding as well as downed trees & power lines.

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Governor Andrew Cuomo is now being investigated for alleged sexual harassment by the Manhattan & Westchester District Attorney’s offices, in addition to the investigation already underway by the Albany County Sheriff’s Department. The findings of the State Assembly Impeachment investigation are being turned over to all who are investigating Cuomo’s alleged improprieties.

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Following the United States Department of Agriculture’s announcement that up to $500 million in American Rescue Plan emergency rural health care funding will be newly available, Senator Kirsten Gillibrand is encouraging all eligible New York entities to apply ahead of the deadline. Applicants may apply for Impact Grants by October 12th, and Recovery Grants on a continual basis until funds are expended. Applications & more information can be found at rd.usda.gov or gillibrand.senate.gov.

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The 2021 Sidney Veteran’s Memorial Park Fundraising Golf Tournament will be held at the Sidney Golf & Country Club on September 11th, organizer Tom Ruff told WCDO News that there is work to be done at the Park this year with the money raised:

(Tom Ruff 8-18-21)

To register for the Golf Tournament, call Tom Ruff at 518-256-7899, the deadline to register is September 9th.

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The Appalachian Regional Commission announced approval of a grant today to the Rural Health Network for $150,000 for their “Get There” transportation to employment program. The program provides for assistance for those who are not able to purchase their own transportation, to get to & from work in the Southern Tier. More information about the program is available at 692-7669.

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The Chenango Blues Festival begins tonight in the East Park in Downtown Norwich with a free show starting at 7:00 PM tonight, with Friday Night’s concert at the Chenango County Fair Grounds in Norwich, the Friday show is Free to all but unvaccinated individuals should wear a mask and social distance. The Main show will be at the Chenango County Fairgrounds, No tickets will be available this year by mail or at the gate, Advance sale tickets will be $40 for adults 18 and over at chenangobluesfest.org/tickets, the headliner will be Jimmy Vaughn of Fabulous Thunderbird’s” fame.

Governor Cuomo today announced Grants to help small Businesses, struggling renters & their landlords emerge from the COVID 19 shutdowns:

(Cuomo 5-26-21)

Governor Cuomo also announced the ‘Get a Shot to Make Your Future’ incentive for 12- to 17-year-olds to get vaccinated for COVID-19, Participants can enter into a random prize drawing and potentially receive a full scholarship to a SUNY or CUNY college. Federal COVID-19 relief and outreach funds will be used to cover the cost of this vaccination incentive program.

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U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand & others are calling on the United States Department of Agriculture to provide additional relief to New York dairy farmers that have taken a financial hit during the COVID-19 crisis. The Coronavirus Food Assistance Program or “CFAP” was created last year to provide direct relief to farmers and help keep them afloat as their clients closed down due to the pandemic, these payments were put on pause in January due to a 60 day regulatory review, when the review was over, and no payments to dairy farmers were announced:

(Gillibrand 5-26-31)

Gillibrand serves on the Senate Agriculture committee, she said that New York State is the 4th largest producer of milk, and the largest producer of yogurt, cottage cheese and sour cream, and that will not keep up if the Dairy farmers are assisted.

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Sidney Police Department responded Tuesday to a suspicious person complaint on Cartwright Avenue. Officers found a person sleeping on a discarded couch on the sidewalk, it was learned that 50 year old Richard Chlebuch of Philadelphia Pennsylvania was wanted on an active arrest warrant from Pennsylvania for a probation violation and on another warrant out of New Jersey. Chlebuch was arrested as a fugitive from justice and was arraigned & was remanded to the Delaware County Jail to await extradition to Pennsylvania.

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Village of Sidney Police Department arrested 2 people following an investigation into the sale of heroin and methamphetamine in the Village of Sidney. Police arrested 22 year old Colin Stanton of Sidney & 42 year old Jessica Ambrose of Sidney for criminal sale of a controlled substance. Both subjects were arraigned in Sidney Village Court & were released on their own recognizance & were ordered to appear back in court at a later date.

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The Chenango County Sheriff’s Office arrested 2 parolees on drug charges, following a narcotics investigation at the Norwich Motor Lodge. Officers seized methamphetamines, heroin, and illegally possessed prescription medication. 24 year old Cheyenne Davenport was charged with Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance and Criminal Use of Drug Paraphernalia, she was wanted on a parole warrant & she was remanded to the Chenango County Correctional Facility without bail. 30 year old Zackery England was charged with Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance & Criminal Use of Drug Paraphernalia, he was also wanted on an active warrant and he was remanded to the Chenango County correctional Facility without bail.

A.M. NEWS WEDNESDAY 5-26-21

The Broome County Sheriff’s Office responded to a 2 vehicle accident that resulted in the death of 37-year-old Justin Chordas of Chenango Forks early Tuesday Morning. Chordas was entering State Route 79 in the town of Barker, from a driveway when he collided with a Pick-up truck, Chordas was found unconscious & was extricated from the vehicle & was taken to Wilson Hospital where he was pronounced dead. The unidentified driver of the truck suffered minor injuries & was taken to Wilson, the investigation into the crash is ongoing.

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Delaware County Public Health nurses will be offering curbside single dose J&J vaccinations in front of the Public Health office at 99 Main Street in Delhi, from 12:00 to 2:00 PM every Wednesday beginning today, during the Delhi Farmer’s Market. All individuals 18 years of age and older that reside in the United States are eligible to be vaccinated, more information is available at 832-5200.

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A bill sponsored in the State Senate by local Senator Peter Oberacker, unanimously passed both houses of the legislature this week. The new bill would amend the current law to allow air ambulances to administer transfusions while providing air transport services. The bill is headed to Governor Cuomo’s desk for approval.

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The State Department of Labor released preliminary unemployment rates for April, New York State’s seasonally adjusted unemployment rate decreased from 8.4% in March to 8.2% in April 2021.

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(Cuomo 4-14-20)

The State has almost 202,208 cases of the Coronavirus with 18,697 people hospitalized, which is essentially a flat number for the last 5 days, but another 778 people died Monday, bring the state death toll to 10,894.

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State Police arrested 26 year old Steven Carpenter of Niagara Falls for Criminal Trespass, Resisting Arrest and Criminal Impersonation.  Troopers were assisting the village of Sidney Police with an investigation at the Speedway on State Routes 7 and 8 in the town of Bainbridge, troopers spotted Carpenter on a bicycle, he ran inside the house of an unsuspecting homeowner then out a window, across the road and down an embankment and out of sight.  Carpenter was ultimately located, he gave troopers a false name and date of birth, and he was wanted on a parole warrant from Steuben County.  Carpenter was transported to the village of Sidney police department, He was then turned over to State Police where he was issued appearance tickets to the town of Bainbridge court, and he was then turned over to the Chenango County Jail and held without bail for the parole warrant.

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Commerce Chenango has teamed up with UHS Chenango Memorial Hospital to provide meals to their staff as they combat the Coronavirus locally.  Commerce Chenango CEO & President Kerri Green Comments:

(Kerri Green 4-14-20)

A donation can be made by going to the “Fueling the Frontline” Go Fund Me page & by doing a search for Commerce Chenango; Donations can also be sent to The Chenango Foundation, 15 South Broad Street, Norwich, More information is available at 334-1402, or at commercechenango.com.

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Delaware County Board of Elections is reminding residents of the Election Changes from Executive Orders issued by Governor Cuomo.  The April 28th Presidential Election has been postponed until June 23, however, the Yellow mail check cards were mailed before the Governor changed the election date.  There is no early voting for the April 28th Primary.  If you are eligible to vote in the June 23rd Primary but do not want to vote in person because of COVID-19 you may obtain an absentee ballot, You may check the box “Temporary illness or physical disability” as a reason for voting absentee on the absentee application, which are by download from co.delaware.ny.us, by calling the Elections Office at 832-5321 or requesting by email at: boe.move@co.delaware.ny.us.

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The Otsego County Department of Health reported that a skunk has tested positive for Rabies.  The skunk was located injured on the side of a road, it was removed & Sent to the state lab in Albany.  1 person who was exposed to the rabid skunk & is undergoing post exposure treatment.  More information about rabies is available at otsegocounty.com.

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Congressman Anthony Brindisi and Congresswoman Elise Stefanik led a New York delegation letter to Secretary of Agriculture Sonny Perdue calling for action from the USADA to assist dairy farmers.  The letters asks to Create a direct payment program for dairy farmers equivalent, Establish a Temporary Milk Disposal Reimbursement program, Create a voucher program through the Milk Donation Program to allow for the facilitation of milk donated by grocery stores and other venues to local and regional food banks & make sure that dairy processors have access to loan programs that can help them continue to operate during the Coronavirus crisis.

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The Sidney Town Board announced today that their next meeting has been rescheduled for April 29th at 7:00 PM. The meeting will not be open to the public, but it will be available on Zoom, more information is available at the Town of Sidney web page. 

State Senator Jim Seward has been discharged from Albany Medical Center, following a bout with the Coronavirus.  Senator Seward will continue convalescing at home.

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Delaware County has received 5 new positive test results Monday for the Coronavirus, the County now has 53 confirmed positive cases, there are an additional 40 people under mandatory quarantine, 6 confirmed cases have been transferred out of the county to where the person resides. Of the 47 confirmed positive cases still in Delaware County 4 are isolated in a hospital, 28 are isolated and recovering safely at their homes, 3 people are deceased and 12 have fully recovered and are no longer in isolation.

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Otsego County has released an update on the Coronavirus pandemic, they have 45 confirmed cases with 5 hospitalized, 19 have recovered and are off isolation & there have been 2 deaths.  49 people on mandatory quarantine, 3 people on precautionary quarantine 102 people have been released from quarantine.

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Broome County now has 146 Positive Coronavirus cases, they now have 8 deaths, 27 recoveries, and 218 are in quarantine, they have administered 1038 tests.

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Chenango County Public Health reported Tuesday 65 Positive cases of the Coronavirus, after getting 2 more positive tests.   Chenango County reports 9 Hospitalizations, 22 Recoveries, there are 227 people under quarantine, and they have tested 361 people so far.

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Amphenol Aerospace has begun producing 75 face shields a week for local healthcare workers as they combat the coronavirus pandemic.  The face shields are manufactured in Amphenol’s prototype lab, more information for healthcare workers to obtain the face shields is available, by contacting Neal Wobbe at 563-5687.

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(Mark Little 7-9-18)

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 Town of Oneonta announced that they are flushing Hydrants starting today. Hydrants will be flushed in the Plains Parish, Morningside Heights & Angel Heights locations, local residents may have discolored water, they are advised to let the water run until it is clear, more information is available at 432-4581.
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The Town of Guilford announced that the Town Office will be closed Tuesday. Officials with the town said that the office is closed due to a jury trial, more information is available at 895-9966.
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The Town & Village of Unadilla announced road closures Tuesday & Wednesday. Highway Superintendent Rodney Renwick told WCDO News that Wendall Bachman & Buckhorn Lake Roads will be closed for paving, from 6:00 AM to 4:30 PM both days.

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Governor Cuomo announced that New York’s maple industry hit a 74-year record in 2018 with the production of 806,000 gallons of maple syrup. The maple industry in New York has grown by nearly 50 percent in the last five years and continues to maintain the state’s standing as the second leading producer of fresh maple syrup in the nation. According to the USDA’s National Agricultural Statistics Service, New York’s maple production constituted about 19 percent of the national total. New York producers also benefited from a long season in 2018 which lasted 52 days, compared to 43 days in 2017
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State Senator Jim Seward will be in Otsego County today at Opportunities for Otsego in Oneonta at 2:00 PM. Senator Seward will announce special state grants he secured to help fund local domestic violence prevention programs. Representatives from Opportunities for Otsego, Catholic Charities of Delaware, Otsego & Schoharie Counties, Delaware Opportunities, and Liberty Resources of Chenango County will join Senator Seward for the announcement. Senator Seward will also detail several legislative accomplishments from the past year to combat domestic violence and sexual harassment.
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State Police CNET along with State Troopers & Norwich Police executed a search warrant following an investigation into Heroin sales in the Norwich area. 54 year old Antonio Totten of Norwich was found to be in possession of crack cocaine, $1803. in cash, wax envelopes containing heroin, brass knuckles, marijuana, and 2 cell phones. Totten was charged with 2 counts of Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance, Criminal Possession of a Weapon & Unlawful Possession of Marijuana. Totten was arraigned & was remanded to the Chenango County Jail on $100,000 cash bail or $250,000 bond.
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The Village of Sidney Police Department announced the Main Street railroad crossing will be closed to traffic today for repairs. Reopening of the railroad crossing is expected on Tuesday, Motorists are advised to use an alternate route.
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3 public meetings will be held today at Oneonta City Hall. The Operations, Planning & Evaluation Committee will begin their meeting at 4:00 PM, followed by the Finance & Human Resources Committee meeting at 5:00 PM, and the Zoning & Housing Board of Appeals at 7:00 PM. All 3 meeting will be held in the Common Council Chambers on the 2nd Floor of City Hall.
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The State DOT announced that construction work for the Prospect Mountain construction project will require alternating lane closures in the City of Binghamton, today through Thursday, from 7:00 AM to to 5:00 PM. Front Street will have periodic, alternating lane closures between Prospect Street and Bevier Street. Crews will be performing bridge pier work. Flag personnel will guide alternating traffic through the work zone. Work will be performed weather permitting. Motorists are advised to be alert for slow moving traffic and sudden stops.
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(John Jackson 6-17-16)

The Delaware County Fair will be held on August 15th through the 20th, wrapping up with the Frankie Ballard Concert on Saturday august 20th, tickets are available at Hodge’s Power Equipment on Liberty Street in Walton or at Delaware county fair.Org.
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State Police arrested 30-year-old Kurtis Breed of Oneonta, for 2nd degree Reckless Endangerment, following the report of an incident in the parking lot of the Price Chopper on State Route 7 in the Town of Oneonta on June 5th. Breed allegedly drove his vehicle recklessly at another motorist and veered at the last second and then drove away, he was arraigned in the Town of Oneonta court and was released without bail required. An order of protection was issued, pending future court action.
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State Police arrested 48-year-old Chauncey Couse of Davenport for criminal possession of a controlled substance, criminal possession of a weapon 4th degree and other traffic violations. The arrest occurred after a traffic stop for Couse talking on his cell phone while driving on Main Street in the Town of Oneonta, police accused Couse of possessing 12 grams of heroin and a Billy club in his vehicle, he faces court action returnable to the town of Oneonta on June 29th.
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The Chenango County Sheriff’s Department arrested a City of Norwich resident on an active arrest warrant for Criminal Mischief. 50-year-old Brian Doeberl was charged following an investigation into allegations that he intentionally damaged county property while being incarcerated in the Chenango County Correctional Facility. Doeberl was arraigned in the Town of Norwich court and released on his own recognizance; he will reappear in the Town of Norwich Court at a later date.
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The Broome County Sheriff’s Department arrested 47-year-old Gina Criscitello of Binghamton for DWI, Driving while ability impaired by Drugs among other charges, in the Town of Chenango Thursday night. Criscitello was transported to the Broome County Sheriff’s Office for further evaluation by a Drug Recognition Expert. Criscitello was released she will be arraigned in the Town of Chenango Court at a later date.
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A Broome County Grand Jury handed up a 9-count indictment of 50-year-old James Starnes of Binghamton for Felony Predatory Sex Against a Child. Starnes faces a number of charges relating to performing illegal sexual acts with a Child,
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State Lawmakers are wrapping up session & passing a flurry of bills. Area Assemblyman Cliff Crouch commented on the Heroin & Opioid agreement that was reached:

(Crouch 6-17-16)

Lawmakers will continue today to act on left over legislation, and try to wrap up the 2016 session in Albany.
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I-88 Speedway will begin the Fast Cash Summer series starting tonight at the Afton Fairgrounds. Track Spokesperson Denise Page explains:

(Denise Page 6-17-16)

Page said that there would also be a special night of racing Tuesday night with Hot Laps at 6:45 and racing at 7:00 PM. More information is available at I88speedway.com.
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The Chenango County Dairy Day will be held this Saturday in Norwich. The event is coordinated each year by a committee of area dairy farmers, Cornell Cooperative Extension, Chenango County Farm Bureau members, USDA employees, and local Chenango County businesses. The event will be held at the Chenango County Fairgrounds, following a parade in the City of Norwich leading to the Fairgrounds.
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The Otsego County Chamber of Commerce & the Greater Oneonta Historical Society will introduce the self-guided walking tour of Main Street in Oneonta this Sunday at 2:00 PM. The self-guided walking tour is in the format of an app for mobile devices, it was constructed by Sweet Home Productions; it will be accompanied by a print version, which will be downloaded at www.OneontaHistory.org. At the launch, visitors will view a version of the app, and then be able to download it for free and try it out on the street. Refreshments will be served. This event is free and open to the public. The History Center will be open on June 19 from 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM. For more information, contact 607-432-0960 or info@OneontaHistory.org.

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The Chenango County Sheriff’s Office investigated a 1-car motor vehicle accident involving 3 occupants on State Highway 320, near the intersection of Tiffany Road in the Town of North Norwich Last night. The vehicle left the roadway and crashed into a ditch. Two occupants of the vehicle were transported by ambulance to the hospital. The other occupant was transported by helicopter to Wilson Hospital and is in critical condition. The accident is still under investigation.

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The State DEC, Cornell University & the USDA Animal Plant Health Inspection Service have confirmed emerald ash borer Beatle in both Westchester and Broome counties. The beetle was found in DEC-deployed traps just north of the city of Peekskill in Westchester County, and southeast of Binghamton in Broome County. The DEC urges residents and municipalities to inventory their ash trees and inspect them for signs of infestation. Homeowners and municipalities can contact the nearest DEC Forestry Office for technical assistance and management recommendations to prepare for the latest threat. More information is available at DEC.Ny.Gov.

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THE USC Open house will be held today until 6:00 PM. The event will be held on the 2^nd Floor of the Tri-Town Regional Hospital on Pearl Street in Sidney. The public in invited to tour the newly expended facility, learn about the Spring 2015 class offerings and programs in a number of concentrations.

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The Sidney memorial public library, along with their Masonville & Sidney Center Branches, will accept non-perishable food items in lieu of overdue book fines. Those who bring in an overdue book along with a food donation per book, will have overdue fines waived, the donated food items will go to area food banks for the upcoming holiday season.

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State Police at Oneonta arrested 31-year-old Jody Currie of Oneonta for Driving While Ability Impaired by Drugs and Alcohol and Unlawful Possession of Marihuana.  The arrest resulted from a traffic stop in Milford, Troopers accuse Currie of driving while impaired by drugs and alcohol, he submitted to a urine test with the lab results pending.  Currie was issued tickets returnable to the Town of Milford Court on November 25^th.

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New York has been declared “Wine Region of the Year.” The honor was bestowed by Wine Enthusiast magazine, citing the quality of New York wines, the tremendous growth of the industry, and improved business climate. The state was selected locations in France, Italy, Washington state California. Governor Cuomo has hosted 2 Beer, Wine, Spirits and Cider Summits to help the businesses grow. There are now more than 375 wineries in New York State.

(Cuomo 6-19-14)

State Senator Jim Seward served on the Senate Task force that held a series of hearings around the state, he talked about the legislation that was agreed to by the legislature & the governor:

(Seward 6-19-14)

Seward said that after negotiations with the Governor, an agreement was been reached on 10 bills, which will be passed before the end of legislative session today.
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Former 1986 world Champion Outfielder Mookie Wilson made an appearance for a book signing at the National Baseball Hall of Fame today, in conjunction with the publishing of his book: “Mookie Deluxe: Life, Baseball, and the ’86 Mets:

(Mookie Wilson 6-19-14)

Wilson still works as a roving minor league instructor for the New York Mets, he was scheduled to tutor the Binghamton Mets today at NYSEG stadium prior to tonight’s game with Richmond.
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The U.S. Department of Agriculture today selected Chobani Greek yogurt as the supplier for a school lunch pilot program that will expand to 12 states this fall. The USDA awarded Chobani the first 1-month contract to supply Greek yogurt to New York, Arizona, Idaho, California, Iowa, Illinois and Mississippi.
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The state Senate approved legislation, to postpone for two years, Cuomo administration plans to close state institutions for the disabled and mentally ill. The bill would postpone closures and consolidations of four facilities operated by the Office of Mental Health and the Office for People with Developmental Disabilities until April 1, 2017. Sponsors say more time is needed to put appropriate safety nets in place. The bill sponsors represent Binghamton, where the Broome Development Center is scheduled to close in 2016. The bill moves to the assembly for consideration as the state Legislature is scheduled to wrap up their session this week
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Chenango County Sheriff’s Deputies arrested 38-year-old Richard Small of Cortland on charges of Grand Larceny and Conspiracy. Small & 3 other individuals are accused of stealing over $1000 of merchandise from the Norwich Wal-Mart. Small was arraigned in the Town of Norwich court and is being held on $1000 cash bail pending action in the Town of Norwich Court at a later date.
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Oneonta Police Department arrested 27-year-old Erika Speller of Oneonta, for criminal sale of a controlled substance & criminal possession of a controlled substance. Speller was charged after Police confiscated cocaine and cash, she was arraigned in Oneonta City Court and sent to the Otsego County Jail on $25,000 cash bail or $50,000 bond.
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US Senator Charles Schumer said the federal government must step up funding to chip away at a backlog of repairs to aging local bridges in upstate New York. There are 2,200 bridges across the state that are owned by cities, towns, villages and counties and are considered either structurally deficient or functionally obsolete. The state receives $71 million a year in federal money to help localities fix and maintain bridges. That amount has been flat for the past five years. Schumer said Congress is still talking about how to fund the transportation bill
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The State legislature has made it legal for pet owners to be buried with their deceased animals. Beginning in August, pet cemeteries will be allowed to accept the cremated remains of people. The regulation, which was proposed last fall and recently adopted, does not allow pet cemeteries to charge a fee for a human burial and cannot advertise human burial services
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State lawmakers wrapped up the state budget one week ago, area assemblyman Pete Lopez said that Agriculture was funded favorably in this budget:

(Lopez 4-7-14)

Lopez said that the education portion of the budget also addressed the need for additional state aid to poorer school districts.

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U.S. Senator Charles Schumer said the U.S.D.A will begin soliciting proposals on May 20^th from Greek yogurt makers, who want to provide Greek yogurt to 12 states, as part of USDA’s  Greek yogurt pilot program. Schumer is urging New York Greek yogurt producers like Chobani & other  to apply for the  program, which will expand to 8 new states, from September 2014 to June 2015 and include New York, Arizona, Idaho, Tennessee, California, Iowa, Connecticut, Illinois, North Carolina, Vermont, Washington and Mississippi. USDA will select one or multiple vendors to provide Greek yogurt.

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The Chenango County Sheriff’s Office arrested Jason Wheeler of Sherburne on charges of 2nd degree Burglary and 4th degree Grand Larceny.  Wheeler was picked up at the Wyoming State Correctional Facility; he was wanted in connection with the theft of firearms from a Sherburne residence.  Wheeler arraigned in the Town of Sherburne court and remanded to the Chenango County Jail on $5,000 cash bail.

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Students entering 8th and 9th grade this fall will have the opportunity to spend two days in the world of hospital healthcare this summer when UHS Chenango Memorial Hospital hosts their annual “M.A.S.H. Camp” on Tuesday, August 5th and Wednesday, August 6th.   The 2-day camp is sponsored by UHS Chenango Memorial Hospital and the Central New York Area Health Education Center, to help encourage young people to explore health careers. Space is limited to 20 students the deadline for applying is Friday, May 2nd. Students can access the online application at cnyahec.org.

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The Chenango county sheriffs department arrested Michelle Venditti of Whitesboro for Aggravated Unlicensed Operation of a motor vehicle.   Venditti was charged following an investigation for speeding in the Town of North Norwich, it was discovered that Venditti’s Driver’s License was suspended on 7 separate occasions. Venditti was arraigned & was remanded to the custody of the Chenango County Sheriff’s Office on $2,000 cash bail.

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New York’s ethics commission reports $210 million was spent on state and local lobbying last year. The Joint Commission on Public Ethics, in its 2013 annual report, says its enforcement cases resulted in more than $450,000 in penalties. The report shows a record $191 million was spent last year on compensation for in-house and retained lobbyists. Top spenders on lobbying included tobacco companies, teachers’ unions and hospital groups.

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Many of the breath mints, chocolate bars and sodas bought from vending machines won’t be subject to sales tax under New York’s new budget. Items purchased for less than $1.50 from automatic vending machines will be exempt from the tax beginning June 1st.

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The Executive Budget continues efforts to control costs while tackling tough issues, according to a report released by State Comptroller Tom DiNapoli. The report also points out that details are lacking on spending changes required for balance in the coming years.  DiNapoli stated that based on Division of the Budget projections, the state faces the risk of General Fund out-year gaps totaling $1.5 billion, $2.2 billion and $3.4 billion in the following 3 years, if unspecified savings from the 2% spending limit are excluded, the gaps would be smaller.  The report is located at osc.state.ny.us.

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Members of the Circle Drive Alliance Church in Sidney are holding a fundraising dinner shortly, to raise money for a trip to Peru this summer, to assist with people living & working at a Garbage Dump.  Spokesperson Megan Owens explains about the dinner & the trip:

(Megan Owens 2-25-14)

Owens said that the trip would be for 10 days at the end of July into early August, more information is available at 437-5799.

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New York State Energy Research and Development Authority is seeking proposals to establish and operate an Advanced Building Consortium in New York State made up of experts in the building trades, to make buildings more energy efficient and cheaper to construct.  Funding of up to $7.5 million is available. More information is available at NYSERDA.NY.GOV.

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In 2011, Governor Cuomo divided the state into 10 regional councils and awarded the Southern Tier close to $50 million for 58 projects, which are on track for completion.  Locally, Norwich Pharmaceuticals is using $2 million for a new lab and equipment, allowing it to test and develop medications. It also retains 350 jobs in Chenango County

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Members of Habitat for Humanity of Delaware County are planning to undertake a building renovation project in Delhi this summer.    Currently the organization is looking for volunteers and volunteer organizations to assist with all components of the build.   The existing structure is on 3 acres along Spring Valley Road, it was donated to the local Habitat Board last year and is in need of an addition to accommodate the average needs of a family.  More information is available at 746-9987 or by email at: habitatdelawarecounty@gmail.com.

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Federal officials say the number of farms in New York fell slightly from 2007 to 2012.  The U.S. Department of Agriculture said preliminary numbers, from its 2012 census, show there are 35,538 farms in the state, down from 36,352.  The 2.2% decrease in the number of farms in the state compared favorable to the 4.3% drop nationally.  The USDA said that decreases in farms continue to be a long-term trend.

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The State Public Service Commission will develop a review process for future transmission projects that can be built within existing utility or State-owned rights-of-way.  The plan stems from Governor Cuomo’s call in his State of the State address, to make upgrades to aging infrastructure, and address congestion problems that cost electric customers hundreds of millions of dollars in excess electricity costs. Upgrading the system to reduce congestion could enhance system flexibility and efficiency, reduce environmental and health impacts and promote lower cost generation in upstate areas

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New York Senator Charles Schumer announced Monday that New York State will be a participant in the USDA Greek Yogurt Pilot Program. The USDA released a solicitation to purchase Greek yogurt for delivery to participating schools in the upcoming School Year. Schools in New York, Tennessee, Idaho, and Arizona will be participating in the program. Bids are due on July 22 and the FSA expects to evaluate the bids and make awards by the end of July.

State Senator Jim Seward Announced a 250 Thousand dollar state grant for medical equipment and to help complete renovations at A.O. Fox Hospital in Oneonta. The grant will assist in the purchase of wall mounted computers and scanners to be used in single occupance patient rooms.

The Village of Bainbridge Planning Board will hold a special meeting Wednesday night to consider a site plan review for 2-4 Whitney Way in Bainbridge, the location where a fire recently destroyed the Upturn Industries building. The Meeting will be held at 7pm inside the Bainbridge Village Clerk’s Office. The meeting is open to the public.

The New York State Department of Transportation will hold a public information meeting to discuss the replacement of the State Route 30 and 206 bridge over the East Branch Delaware River in the town of Colchester. The meeting will take place at the Downsville Fire Station this Wednesday at 7pm. The DOT said the bridge was constructed in 1953 and is nearing the end of it’s service life.

The Binghamton Zoo will have an ice cream safari this Saturday July 13th. Five station will be positioned around the zoo with 5 different ice cream flavors. All of the zoo’s animals will be on display including animal spotlights. For more information, go to Ross Park Zoo dot com.

The next Free Rabies Vaccination Clinic for dogs, cats, and ferrets in Delaware County, will be held today at the Deposit Town Clerk building at 3 Elm Street. The clinic will run from 6:00PM-8:00PM, more information is available at 832-5200 or at delawarecountypublichealth.com

On Friday evening, July 19th at 9:00 pm The Shire Pub in Delhi will be hosting a fundraiser for Habitat of Delaware County. Members of Habitat for Humanity of Delaware County are planning for a building project in the Delhi area. Additional information regarding Habitat for Humanity of Delaware County is available by accessing delawarecountyhabitat.org or at 746-9987.

State Police are continuing with the investigation into the 2 shootings in Mohawk & Herkimer last week, by 64-year-old Kurt Meyers of Mohawk.  Police stated that Meyers  was broke,   unemployed since 2006, yet they have no motive of why Meyers targeted John’s Barbershop in Mohawk & Gaffee’s Car Wash in Herkimer last Wednesday, killing 4 & injuring 2 others, before he died in a shootout with police in an abandoned Herkimer bar.   The Funerals for Michael Ransear and Harold Montgomery took place on Monday, while services for . Thomas Stefka and Michael Renshaw, will be later in the week.  the 2 survivors from the Mohawk shooting, Dan Haslauer and John Seymour, remain hospitalized Monday.  Police are asking anyone with information on Meyers to call them at  315-866-7275.

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Budget negotiations have slowed down today, as a few items are being brought into the final budget document, that have little to do with the budget itself, according to area assemblyman Bill Magee:

(Bill Magee 3-20-13)

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The Oneonta department of public service is working in a water main today, located at the intersection of Fair & Hickory streets.  During the repairs, area residents may experience a temporary water outage; anyone with questions can call 432-6465.