WCDO Radio News

P.M. NEWS WEDNESDAY 5-21-25

Oneonta Fire Department responded at about 1:30 this morning to a structure fire at 5 Grand Street. An Occupant in 1 of the apartments reported a kitchen fire, crews found light smoke showing from the exterior of the building, they encountered heavy smoke and poor visibility on the 2nd floor, they located the involved apartment and quickly extinguished the fire. The Department reported that all 6 residents from the 3 affected apartments have been displaced and will remain so until repairs can be completed. 1 occupant was taken to A.O. Fox Hospital for evaluation, 1 resident's cat perished in the fire. Assistance was provided by the Sidney Fire Department FAST Team, West Oneonta Fire Department was on stand-by, the cause of the fire is currently under investigation.

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The Sidney Veteran's Memorial Park will have an Installation Ceremony Saturday, Park president Doug Barnard explains:

(Doug Barnard 5-21-25)

Barnard also said that their Fundraising Golf Tournament will be held on June 7th at the Sidney Golf Course.

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John Lewis of Bainbridge, will be inducted into the General Clinton Canoe regatta Hall of Fame this weekend, he has 40 70-mile finishes in both the C-1 and C-2 classes, he commented about the honor to WCDO today.

(John Lewis 5-21-25)

Lewis & the rest of the inductees will be honored in a ceremony at General Clinton Park Saturday afternoon at General Clinton Park. WCDO''s full interview with John Lewis will be played during our coverage of the the General Clinton Canoe Regatta on Sunday.

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Broome County DA Paul Battisti announced that the County has received over $750,000 to strengthen law enforcement's ability to identify & address High Risk Domestic Violence. The funding allows for on scene crisis response by law enforcement and professional advocates to provide safe planning & support to victims, comprehensive care review sessions to address the needs of victims & implement a new system to ensure offender accountability through a coordinated response.

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A.M. NEWS WEDNESDAY 5-21-25

Many of the Southern Tier area schools had their budgets passed by voters on Tuesday, however not all of the results are in this morning. Locally, Voters in the Sidney Central School District approved the budget 147-43, they also passed the bus proposition & the Sidney Luibrary budget, Bainbridge-Guilford School Budget passes 180-78, Franklin had their budget, bus & library votes passed, other local who schools who reported budget votes passing by substantial margins were Unatego, Oneonta, GMU, DEPOSIT, WALTON, Afton, UNADILLA VALLEY, Greene, Harpursville.

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Workers in the Southern Tier Counties will have acces to expanded services through the GetThere program, Spokesman Stan Varghese explains:

(Stan Varghese 5-21-25)

Anyone in need of the services can contact them at 855-373-4040 to set up transportation through GetThere. More information is available at rhnscny.org.

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Due to inclement weather, Wednesday's Rumble Ponies game against the Richmond Flying Squirrels at Mirabito Stadium has been suspended with the score 2-2 entering the top of the sixth inning. The suspended game will resume on Thursday at 4:30 p.m. The regularly scheduled game Thursday night will begin approximately 40 minutes after the conclusion of the suspended game. Fans can exchange their tickets to Wednesday's game for any remaining Rumble Ponies home game this season.

P.M. NEWS MONDAY 5-19-25

A Delaware County Grand Jury handed down a Sealed Indictment Warrant for the arrest of 50-year-old James Amato. Delaware County Sheriff’s Deputies arrested Amato on the Warrant, he was arraigned in Delaware County Court, where the indictment was unsealed, alleging that in April of 2021 Amato had taken logs off multiple properties in the Town of Hamden, causing damage to trees and property and selling the timber for profit. Amato was charged with 3 counts each of 3rd & 4th degree Grand Larceny and 6 counts of Criminal Mischief, Amato was released on his own recognizance and directed to re-appear in court at a future date.

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63 year old Daniel Schultz of Margaretville was sentenced to 6 months in the Delaware County Correctional Facility to be followed by 3 years of a conditional discharge for the crime of Aggravated Driving While Intoxicated with a Child in the Vehicle, commonly known as Leandra’s Law. On August 10, 2024, a State Trooper observed a pickup truck operated by Daniel Schultz, Schultz’s license had previously been revoked, a traffic stop was initiated, Schultz stopped the vehicle, a passenger quickly exited the truck, who was under the age of 16. Schultz failed sobriety testing & was charged with several crimes, Schultz pleaded guilty, Schultz was sentenced in Delaware County Court last week, his license was revoked, and if he obtains a license, he will need to install an ignition interlock device on any vehicle he owns or operates. If he violates any condition of his conditional discharge, he could be re-sentenced to 1 1/3 to 4 years in state prison.

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School Budget votes will be held tomorrow across the state, Sidney Central School District Superintendent Eben Bullock told WCDO news about their proposed budget:

(Eben Bullock 5-19-25)

The Unatego School District is also seeking approval on a new budget, Superintendent Dr. Dave Richards explains:

(Dr. Dave Richards 5-19-25)

School Districts are also looking to fill Board of Education Seats, and in some cases capital projects and/or buss purchases around the state tomorrow.

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The City of Oneonta announced a Traffic Alert regarding the Lettis Highway Lane Closures. Starting today, motorists can expect northbound lane closures on Lettis Highway (Route 23) between Fair Street and Main Street for approximately two weeks while drainage work is underway as part of State DOT's Oneonta Roundabout project. Drivers are reminded to slow down in work zones and obey all traffic control devices. Traffic updates can be found at 511, visiting 511NY.org or download the free 511NY mobile app.

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Otsego County, in partnership with the Mohawk Valley Economic Development District, will host a public kickoff meeting on Thursday, May 29, to launch its Broadband Technical Assistance Project. The event will be held from 6:00 to 7:30 PM at the Meadows Office Complex, at 140 County Highway 33W, Cooperstown.

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Residents in Broome, Chenango, Delaware and Otsego Counties have access to an expanded range of transportation services, thanks to the Getthere program, providing rides to medical appointments,emergency food access, and employment. Getthere is a program of the Rural Health Network of South Central New York, more information is available at (855) 373-4040 or rhnscny.org.

A.M. NEWS Monday 5-19-25

State Police is enhancing its approach to investigating animal cruelty through a new partnership with the State Animal Protection Federation. More than 200 Troopers and Investigators will receive advanced instruction on identifying and responding to animal cruelty cases so that they will be better equipped to detect, investigate, and document cruelty cases, Enhance collaboration with local law enforcement, animal welfare organizations, and prosecutors and it will allow for a more efficient response to these complex investigations.

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The Delaware County Chamber of Commerce is rebranding and will host a first look at a launch party on Monday, May 19, at 4:00 pm in The Okun Theatre of Farrell Hall at SUNY Delhi. Chamber President Ray Pucci comments:

(Ray Pucci 5-19-25)

Pucc said that Josiah Brown of Famous Destination Marketing, has been working with the chamber Staff & Board of Directors Everyone is invited to attend. Advanced registration is not required but is appreciated at the Programs and Events tab at DelawareCounty.org.

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P.M. NEWS THURSDAY 3-20-25

45 year old Thomas Stanley of South New Berlin was sentenced in Delaware County Court to 4 years in prison for Attempted Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance & Possession with the Intent to Sell. On April 30th , 2023, Sidney Police conducted a traffic stop with 4 passengers inside, including Thomas Stanley, it was discovered that the driver, Thomas Wright, was the subject of an Order of Protection granted to a separate passenger of the vehicle. The car was impounded and heroin, fentanyl, and methamphetamine packaged for sale were located. Stanley and Wright were indicted by a Grand Jury for 6 counts of drug- related felonies.

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Delaware County Sheriff’s Deputies responded to a Domestic Dispute in Walton, 26-year-old Jacob Goodman of Warwick, violated an order of protection & got into a physical altercation with his wife, Goodman was charged with Criminal Contempt and Harassment, he was transported to the Delaware County Correctional Facility and was held for Centralized Arraignment Court.

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33 year old Charles Larson of Oneonta appeared in Delaware County Court Tuesday and pleaded guilty to Driving While Intoxicated, Larson was sentenced to 3 years of felony probation supervision. On October 20, 2024, Colchester Police observed 2 speeding motorcycles, After conducting a traffic stop, Larson failed the Standardized Field Sobriety Tests and he was arrested. On November 14, 2024, the Delaware County Grand Jury returned a 5-count indictment against Larson for the latest DWI, he was previously convicted of DWI within the last ten years, Larson’s license was revoked for 6 months and any vehicle he operates for the next 12 months must have an Ignition Interlock Device installed, if he violates the terms he will be re-sentenced to 1 1/3 to 4 years in state prison.

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Delaware County Sheriff’s Deputies observed a vehicle where an occupant had an open container of alcohol, a search was conducted & Deputies located cocaine and other narcotics 24 year old Maxwell Kaufman of Downsville was charged with several counts of Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance, Tampering with Physical Evidence and Obstructing Governmental Administration. 24 year old Treyton Hathaway of Oneonta was charged with Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance, Criminal Possession of a weapon. Kaufman was released on his own recognizance and Hathaway was turned over to the Delaware County Correctional Facility pending further proceedings.

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The Amphenol Corporation in Sidney is celebrating their 100th anniversary in Sidney this year, with a special open house on July 19th at their facility on Delaware Avenue, Director of Marketing Communication Chris Cappello told WCDO News about the open house:

(Chris Cappello 3-20-25)

Cappello said that he has also written a book that should be ready by the time of the Open House about the history of Amphenol in Sidney entitled "Connecting History", complete with interviews & donated memorabilia.

A.M. NEWS Thursday 3-20-25

Binghamton Police announced that 50 year old Scott Mitchell of Binghamton, was extradited from Florida back to Binghamton, Mitchell was wanted regarding the homicides of Daniel McCloe and Marshall VanOven, on February 3rd in Binghamton. Mitchell has been charged with 2 counts of 2nd degree murder, he was arraigned in Binghamton City Court and remanded to the Broome County Jail, anyone with information about the murders should contact Binghamton Police Detectives at (607) 772-7080

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Phyllis Wheeler pleaded guilty in Chenango County Court to 2nd-degree burglary, she will be sentenced to 3 1/2 years in prison followed by 5 years of post release supervision, her son, Brendan Wheeler pleaded guilty to 1st degree burglary for his role in the attack, he will likely be sentenced to a 5 year term in prison followed by 5 years post release supervision. The pair admitted to attacking the victim violently at the victims home.

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State Police with the assistance of the Broome County Sheriff’s Department responded to the report of possible human remains that were located behind the Windsor school bus garage on Main Street in the town of Windsor. The investigation is ongoing at this time.”

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Commerce Chenango will hold an Open House at their new location at 19 East Main Street in Norwich today. The Open House will be held from 4:30pm-6:00pm today.

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P.M. NEWS WEDNESDAY 1-22-25

49 year old Keith Audette of Hamden, appeared in Delaware County Court and was sentenced to a 5-year term of probation supervision for the crime of Driving While Ability Impaired by Drugs. Audette had previously appeared in Delaware County Court in November and entered a plea of guilty to the charge, he had been previously convicted of Operating a Motor Vehicle While Intoxicated in Chenango County Court in 2015, he also admitted that he drove a motor vehicle in the Village of Walton on April 9, 2024, while under the influence of methamphetamine. Audette was also ordered to pay fines, fees, and a surcharge at a total amount of $1,570, his license was revoked, and he was ordered to provide a sample of his DNA for inclusion in the state DNA data base. If he violates any of the terms of probation, he may be re-sentenced to one and one third to four years in state prison.

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Deposit & Windsor Firefighters responded to a basement fire in on 2nd Street in Deposit shortly before 7:00 PM Tuesday Night. Deposit Fire crews found the fire in the basement of a 2 story home, no injuries were reported, the cause of the fire is under investigation.

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With the cold stretch that we are currently experiencing, Delaware County DPW spokesman Tyson Robb reminds people on what to do with ashes from their wood stoves:

(Tyson Robb 1-22-25)

Robb said that the county policy is to not accept ashes at the landfill under any circumstances.

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Gilbertville Mount Upton Superintendent Annette Hammond announced that she will retire following the completion of her 10th year as superintendent and 16th overall at GMU. Hammond became GMU’s middle/high school principal in August 2009, and was named superintendent in August 2015. The District will begin conducting a search for a new Superintendent shortly.

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CORNELL COOPERATIVE EXTENSION IS HAVING A FREE ENERGY WORKSHOP today from 5:30 TO 7:00 PM, AT THE COOPERATIVE EXTENSION CHENANGO OFFICE AT 99 NORTH BROAD STREET IN NORWICH. RSVP's are encouraged at 607-366-0833.

A.M. NEWS WEDNESDAY 1-22-25

State Police responded yesterday afternoon to at about 3:50 pm to a 3-vehicle crash at the intersection of State Highway 7 and County Highway 9 in the town of Oneonta. A preliminary investigation determined that a BMW was traveling on State Highway 7 when it struck a Toyota from behind while the Toyota was waiting to turn left onto County Highway 9, the Toyota was pushed into the path of a Chevrolet SUV and they collided head-on. The operator of the BMW, a 76-year-old male was pronounced deceased on scene, it is unknown at this time whether he died as a result of the collision or if he suffered a medical event. The operator of the Toyota, a 24-year-old male was transported to A.O Fox Hospital, The operator of the Chevrolet SUV, a 52-year-old male with 3 children were checked out on scene but not transported. The investigation is on-going.

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Chenango County Sheriff’s Office arrested 43 year old Randall Harmon of Sherburne for Criminal Contempt & Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance, after he violated specific conditions of an Order of Protection. Members of the Chenango County Sheriff’s Office & Parole Officers made a home visit, in the home Officers located a female subject & a child, who had an order of protection against Harmon, Officers seized methamphetamine. Harmon was taken to the Chenango County Sheriff’s Office for processing, he was then remanded to the Chenango County Correctional Facility on an active Parole Warrant as a result of the previous charges.

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23 year old Bryce Farrell of Sidney appeared in Delaware County Court and pleaded guilty to Attempted Burglary, he admitted that on July 28, 2023, in the Village of Walton, he entered a building he did not have permission to be in for the purpose of committing a crime, 3 days later, an individual reported to Walton Police Department that his residence had been broken into and a safe stolen. Investigators reviewed security footage, identified Farrell as one of the burglars, an arrest warrant was issued & Farrell was apprehended by State Police in November. Judge Hubbard ordered the Delaware County Probation Department to conduct a pre-sentencing report. His sentencing is tentatively scheduled for March 11th.

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American Red Cross Blood Drives are continuing, a drive will be held today from 1:00 to 6:00 PM at the Foothills Performing Arts Center on Market Street in Oneonta, appointments can be made at 1-800 REDCROSS, with the blood donor app or at redcrossblood.org.

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P.M. NEWS TUESDAY 1-21-25

Governor Kathy Hochul unveiled the State Executive Budget proposal today in Albany, totaling 252 Billion Dollars, an increase of 3.6% over last year's budget. Hochul discussed 3 plans to assist working class families in the Budget proposal:

(Hochul 1-21-25)

The increase in the budget follows an 8% state revenue increase over the last year, the Governor also discussed the continuance of plans to build more housing & changing the formula for state aid to school district and to stay on top of the state's crumbling roads & infrastructure due to the tough winter weather.

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Delaware County Sheriff’s Office arrested 59 year old Karen Bryant of Greene & 71 year old Nancy Nowalk of Greene in connection with the misconduct investigation by the Greene Central School District. The woman were arrested Saturday after Greene Schoo Officlas reported that a 9-year-old female student had been “physically attacked” on a school bus by a school employee while in the Town of Masonville on Wednesday, January 8th. Video evidence revealed that Bryant struck the student “multiple times”, while Nowalk, failed to report it to the district. Bryant and Nowalk have been charged with Endangering the Welfare of a Child. Bryant was also charged with Harassment, they were released on appearance tickets for the Town of Masonville Court at a later date.

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Chenango County Sheriff’s Office arrested 23 year old Brandon King of Norwich for Burglary, Rape, 2 counts of Menacing and Criminal Obstruction of Breathing. Deputies responded to a Trespass in progress complaint, they located the female victim inside the residence, they determined that King unlawfully entered the victim’s residence, pointed a firearm at her, then displayed a knife and held it to the victim’s throat before forcing the victim to engage in sexual intercourse, a phone call was received from family members and the victim explained the situation, they contacted Police and King fled the scene on foot, he was later located in Utica and taken into custody. King was processed & was remanded without bail to the Chenango County Correctional Facility and is to appear in the Town of Norwich Court at a later date.

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Chenango County Sheriff's Office arrested 42 year old Natasha Meeks of the Town of Otselic for Criminal Possession of Stolen Property, Tampering with Physical Evidence, and Criminal Mischief. Last April the Sheriff’s Office received a complaint from a victim that items were stolen from a property in the Town of Plymouth, at the end of the investigation, the case was presented to a Chenango County grand jury, and Following the indictment, an arrest warrant was issued. Meeks turned herself into the Detectives at the Chenango County Sheriff’s Office earlier this month, she was processed, arraigned in the Chenango County Court, and was Released in her own recognizance, she is scheduled to appear in the Chenango County Court at a later date.

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A.M. NEWS TUESDAY 1-21-25

With the Cold Weather Advisory in effect, People who must go outside are advised to dress with many layers of clothing, wear a mask or scarf to keep from inhaling the cold air, wear a hat or hood, as 40% of body heat can escape through an uncovered head.

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The American Red Cross announced that if local residents donate Blood this month, they can enter for a chance to win 2 tickets to the Super Bowl in New Orleans. There are 2 Blood Drives in Oneonta today, one from 12:00 Noon until 5:00 PM at the Oneonta Elks Lodge on Chestnut Street and another from 1:00 to 6:00 PM at the St. James Episcopal Church at 205 Main Street. Donations can be made with the Blood Donor app, at redcrossblood.org or by calling 1-800-redcross.

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WCDO NEWS FRIDAY 11-15-24

Broome County Sheriff’s Office Office arrested 51 year old Byron Bump of the Town of Colesville, for 1st & 2nd degree Rape, & Attempted Rape, Bump was relieved from his job as a school bus driver for the Chenango Valley School District, he is accused of sexually abusing multiple minors over a lengthy period of time, Anyone with information should contact the Broome County Sheriff’s Office by calling 607-778-1196.

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Otsego County Sheriff's Office arrested 35 year old Jacob Snook of Gilbertsville on multiple charges following the execution of a search warrant following a residential fire in the Town of Butternuts. Snook was charged with Criminal Manufacture of Undetectable Firearm, Criminal Possession of Ammunition Feeding Device, Criminal Possession of a Firearm, Criminal Possession of a Ghost Gun, among other similar charges, Deputies and investigators executed the search warrant at the residence and discovered that Snook had two 3D printers to manufacture untraceable firearms, plus loaded high-capacity magazines and a large quantity of ammunition, he was taken into custody and was being held at the Otsego County Correctional Facility to await Centralized Arraignment.

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The Oneonta Board of Public Service has issued a "water supply emergency" and is recommending that water conservation efforts be implemented, as their main reservoir is 74 inches below normal. officials recommend taking short showers, repair leaks, more information is available at 607-432-2100. .

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Lambrecht Auction in Sidney will have their 2nd Annual Sidney EMS Charity event to raise money for the Emergency squad, on Saturday t\starting at 5:00 PM Jared Lambrecht explained that they are looking to raise money for the Sidney EMS, which needs a new ambulance:

(Jared Lambrecht 10-28-24)

More information is available online at laibids.com, last year they raised about $18,000 for the Sidney Emergency Squad.

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The Community Cultural Center of Sidney will have another Comedy Night tonight, tickets to see Karen Rontkowski & Josh Wilbert, Tickets will be available at the Community Cultural Center Facebook page or at the door prior to tonight’s Show.

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Broadway In Binghamton announced their latest season special, Menopause The Musical 2, coming to the Forum Theatre, June 4 at 7:30PM. Tickets go on sale today at 10:00 AM at the Forum Box Office, Ticketmaster or online at BroadwayInBinghamton.com. More information is available at 607-772-1391 or BroadwayInBinghamton.com.

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Hospice & Palliative Care of Chenango County will be having their "Home-Made" sale tomorrow in Norwich, spokesperson Sarah Green explains:

(Sarah Green 11-15-24)

Green said that 100% of of the money raised will go to fund Hospice programs for the families they serve.

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The Jericho Arts Council will have another concert Saturday along with an Art exhibit in the Gallery at the Town Hall. Council Spokesman Phil Wade explains:

(Phil Wade 11-15-24)

Reservations can be made in advance at 607-288-3882.

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The Unatego Booster Club No-Tap Bowling Tournament will be held tomorrow at 10:00 AM & 1:30 PM, at Galaxy Bowl in Bainbridge. More information is available at 237-6638.

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P.M. NEWS WEDNESDAY 11-13-24

Last week, Delaware County District Attorney Shawn Smith announced that his office would no longer be participating the the County's Drug Court, as changes like the State's Bail Reform laws & other factors have kept those that the program was meant to help, they are no longer entering into the criminal justice system and they can not get the help they need. Smith told WCDO News that at the very least, more decisions need to be made by the judges again:

(Shawn Smith 11-13-24)

WCDO News will be broadcasting the full interview with District Attorney Smith soon, and we will announce the broadcast dates shortly.

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The Community Cultural Center of Sidney will have another Comedy Night this Friday Night, spokesperson Amy Williams explains:

(Amy Williams 11-13-24)

Tickets to see Karen Rontkowski & Josh Wilbert will be available at the Community Cultural Center Facebook page or at the door prior to Friday Night's Show.

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Chenango County Sheriff’s Office arrested 29 year old Damion Spicer of Plymouth for 2nd degree Assault last week. Deputies were called for an assault in Sherburne, Spicer allegedly hit the victim several times in the face, causing serious physical injury. The victim was transported to Upstate Medical Center in Syracuse to receive further treatment. Spicer was arraigned & was remanded to the Chenango County Correctional Facility on $50,000 cash bail. Spicer is set to appear in the Town of Sherburne Court at a later date.

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New York's annual statewide holiday donation drive to benefit families in need will begin next Monday, Donations of new unwrapped toys, new and gently used coats, and new school supplies are requested to assist community-based organizations during the holiday giving season. The local drop-off locations will collect donations from November 18 through December 13th at the Binghamton State Office Building - 44 Hawley Street, or at the Homer Folks Facility at 28 Hill Street, Oneonta

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Chenango County Fire officials are investigating a fire at 27 State Street in Oxford Friday afternoon. 2 people were injured, 1 suffered severe burns, 2 Life Net Helicopters were called for the victims.

A.M. NEWS WEDNESDAY 11-13-24

The Southern Tier 8 Regional Board is hosting the 1st State Infrastructure Summit: Building a More Resilient Southern Tier, where federal, state and regional leaders address the infrastructure needs of the 14-county Central and Southern Tier Regions. About 200 local, state and federal partners, are participating from 8:30 a.m. To 4:00 p.m. at the Doubletree Hotel, in Binghamton.

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An American Red Cross Blood Drive will be held today from 12:00 Noon until 5:00 PM, at the SUNY ONEONTA, HUNT UNION HALL. Appointments can be made at rossblood.org, 1-800- RedCross or with the blood donor App.

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P.M. NEWS WEDNESDAY 10-30-24

Chenango County Residents will be voting to fill the Family Court Judge position for the 1st time on Tuesday, Democrat Lisa Natoli told WCDO News why she feels that she should fill the position:

(Lisa Natoli 10-30-24)

Republican candidate Diane DiStefano is also running for the newly created positions & told WCDO News why she should be elected:

(Diane DiStefano 10-30-24)

More information about Chenango County Elections can be found at the County Board of Elections website at chenangocountyny.gov.

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42 year old Dennis Fickeria of Margaretville pleaded guilty to Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance this week in Delaware County Court. In January, members of the Delaware County Sheriff’s Office executed a search warrant at Fickeria’s residence in the town of Middletown, they seized controlled substances and firearms, he was indicted for 38 counts related to illegal gun possession and drug sales, he admitted in court that he possessed Fentanyl with the intention of selling it, he faces 4.5 years in state prison, to be followed by 1 year of post release supervision, when sentenced on December 16th.

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Hospice & Palliative Care of Chenango County will be hosting a "Caregivers Support Group" for those assisting those with a variety of health issues, that can be overwhelming to loved ones who are caring for them, Hospice Spokesperson Sarah Green comments:

(Sarah Green 10-30-24)

Registration is requested by calling Hospice at 607-334-3556, the next session will be on November 7th in Norwich.

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The Otsego County Chamber of Commerce will hold their annual Membership Meeting & Awards Ceremony on November 14th. Several County businesses will receive awards at the event, which will be held at the Foothills Performing Arts Center Atrium on Market Street in Oneonta.

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Local government sales tax collections totaled $5.98 billion in the 3rd quarter of 2024, an increase of 1.4%, or $82.7 million, according to State Comptroller Tom DiNapoli. 8 of the 10 regions in the state, saw collections rise. Aggregate growth in third quarter collections for the counties and cities outside of New York City was 1.5%, year over year, it was the largest increase so far this year.

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Delaware Academy Central School District at Delhi will again be hosting area veterans for a special Veterans Day breakfast event on Thursday, November 8. Veterans and their families are invited to attend the event, beginning with a breakfast at 8:15 am, followed by an assembly and special program in the high school auditorium at 9:00 am. Veterans who are interested in attending are asked to RSVP by calling the high school office, 607-746-1308.

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P.M. NEWS TUESDAY 9-24-24

The State Department of Labor announced that Unemployment increased .1% in August from July to 4.4% , Locally Chenango County had 3.5% unemployment, Delaware County 4.2% and Otsego County 4.1% in August.

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Edmeston Central School District went into lock-down today following a situation that district Officials Stated posed a potential threat to students if they were outside the school building today. Law Enforcement was notified & no one was allowed to enter or leave the school building. Law enforcement investigated & claimed that situation was safe & the lock-down was lifted.

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State Police are looking to identify 2 people that are linked to several “smash and grabs” thefts. The suspects have smashed windows and taken valuable items from vehicles in broad daylight at Otsiningo Park, & other Southern Tier Locations, they were spotted in a white BMW, the license plate on that vehicle was found to be stolen from Connecticut. Anyone with information is asked to contact State Police at Troop C at (607)561-7400. State Police also remind residents to never leaving valuables in plain view in a vehicle even if the vehicle is locked.

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Delaware County Sheriff’s Deputies conducted a traffic stop in the Town of Walton that resulted in 2 arrests. The driver of the vehicle was 37 year old Aaron Howard of Walton, who's driving privileges had been revoked, he was charged with Aggravated Unlicensed Operation of a motor vehicle among other lesser charges. Deputies also arrested the passenger, 36 year old Courtney Condon of Walton, on 2 counts of Criminal Possession of a control substance, both were released on appearance tickets for Town of Walton court at a later date to answer the charges.

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45 year old Kareem Young of Binghamton, was sentenced to 11 years in State Prison followed by 3 years post-release supervision after being found guilty as a second felony offender of Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance & 2 counts of Criminally Using Drug Paraphernalia, by a jury in Broome County Court In January, the Broome County Special Investigations Unit executed a narcotics search warrant At Young's residence in Binghamton, he was in possession of cocaine and implements of narcotics trafficking.

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The Springbrook 5K – Miles for a Mission fundraiser will be held this Saturday, at Mirabito Stadium in Binghamton, Springbrook Director of Giving Kim Johnson explains:

(Kim Johnson 9-24-24)

Interested participants can register online at springbrookny.org/race, or at Mirabito Stadium prior to the race time Saturday.

A.M. NEWS Tuesday 9-24-24

38 year old Nikita Kingsbury of Sidney appeared in Delaware County Court Monday and was sentenced to a 2-year period of incarceration to be followed by two years of post-release supervision. Kingsbury previously pleaded guilty to 2 counts of Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance with the Intent to Sell, On July 13, 2023, Kingsbury was indicted by the Delaware County Grand Jury on allegations that she sold methamphetamine in the Village of Sidney on August 11, 2022. Shortly afterwards, she was arrested and then released on her own recognizance while the case was pending. Separately, a felony complaint was filed against Ms. Kingsbury alleging the sale of illegal narcotics in the Town of Davenport on May 21, 2024.

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The Family Resource Network is hosting an Open House today from 11am-6:30pm at the Community Cultural Center, 1 Bridge Street in Sidney. Director Michelle Zuk told WCDO News about the positions they are looking to fill:

(Michelle Zuk 9-24-24)

For those interested in the positions but can not attend the Open House, call 607-432-0001 or email; kwinn@familyrn.org. More information is available at familyrn.org.

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The Re-organizational meeting for the former Bainbridge Initiative, now renamed "Path To Hope" will be tonight at in Sidney, spokesperson Carole Kanzer explains to change:

(Carole Kanzer 9-24-26)

The meeting begins at 6:30 this evening at the Full Life Assembly of God Church on Plankenhorn Road in Sidney, all are welcome to attend.

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2 more American Red Cross Blood Drives are scheduled today, one in Oneonta from 1 pm. - 6 pm., at Foothills Performing Arts & Civic Center, 24 Market Street, another from 9:30 am. - 2:30 pm., at the DCMO BOCES Harrold Campus on State route 206 in Trout Creek, appointments can be made at RedCrossBlood.org, call 1-800-RED CROSS or by using the Red Cross Blood Donor App.

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P.M. NEWS FRIDAY 9-20-24

Chenango County Sheriff's Office arrested 43 year old Thomas Toomer of Oxford for multiple counts of Criminal Possession of a Weapon, 1 count of Aggravated Criminal Possession of a Weapon, 1 count of Criminal Contempt. Members of the Chenango County Sheriff’s Office responded to Toomer’s residence to serve an eviction notice, Toomer and an additional occupant of the residence were removed, the other occupant had an order of protection against Toomer. Toomer was then taken into custody without incident. Several firearms, ammunition, and high-capacity magazines were located in the residence. Toomer had 3 previous Felony convictions & was not allowed to have firearms, he was arraigned & was remanded to the Chenango County Correctional Facility without bail pending additional court action in Chenango County Court.

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WCDO Sports Director Nate Lull has a fall golf tournament coming up this weekend at the Colonial Ridge Golf Course in Morris to support The Nate Lull Scholarship, Lull said he wasn’t planning on another Tournament, but the chance to add to the scholarship fund made was a no brainer:

(Nate 9-20-24)

The Phone Number to sign up again is 607-263-5291, and request to sign-up for the Nate Lull Tournament specifically when you call. The Nate Lull Scholarship has handed out $30,000 dollars over the last two years to local high school seniors.

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The 9th Annual AUTUMN MARKET will be held Saturday, from 9am to 3pm at General Clinton Park in Bainbridge. Locally artisans, antique collectors, and small businesses will be participating, & there will be carnival games, pony rides and horse drawn carriage rides.

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The 14th Annual Sidney Center Tractor Parade will be held Saturday starting at 12:00 Noon, interested participants can sign up starting at 9:00 AM.

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An American Red Cross Blood Drive will be held Saturday from 10:00 Am to 3:00 PM at The Southside Mall, appointments can be made at redcrossblood.org, by calling 1-800 RedCross or using the Blood Donor App.

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The 7th Annual Tom "Uncle Bear" Safford Memorial truck Show will be held Saturday at the Chenango County Fairgrounds, from 8:00 Am to 2:00 PM, money raised will go to the American Cancer Society.

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The Jericho Arts Council will have Ron Fetner at the Town Hall Theatre Saturday at 7:00 PM. Tickets can be reserved at 607-288-3882, in The Gallery will be the works of John Keating

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State Police in Troop “C” will be hosting a child car seat check at the "Touch A Truck" event at the Broome County Fairgrounds in Whitney Point from 10:00am – 2:00pm, Appointments are preferred at (607)561-7604. Also, the Governor's Office announced a car seat check from 9 am. to 12 pm. at Visions Federal Credit Union, State Highway 12, Norwich.

A.M. NEWS FRIDAY 9-20-24

On September 18th, 2024 the Sidney Police Department began an investigation into a social media post that made a threat to several specific students of the Sidney School District. The same threat was also directed to several specific students of the Walton School District. Sidney Police Department has charged a 14 year old female with one count of Making a terroristic threat and four counts of Aggravated harassment, Due to the subject's age she was issued a juvenile appearance ticket to appear at the Delaware County Probation Department and released.

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State Police is warning the public of a nationwide automated sextortion scam in which scammers use people’s email address to coerce payments using intimidation. Scammers obtain emails and other personal information purchased illegally on the dark web to contact victims, & claim to possess images of the victim viewing pornographic material and threatens to disclose this content to everyone in their contact list unless they pay in Bitcoin, however, the scammer does not have access to the victim’s device or personal information. If you receive one of these emails, do not engage or share any personal information, Victims should block the sender, delete the email, and report it through the FBI Internet Crime Complaint Center at ic3.gov or call the FBI at 1‐800‐CALL‐FBI. State Police or local law enforcement agencies can also assist with criminal investigations.

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The Broome County Sheriff’s Office is currently looking for James Pruitt on an outstanding warrant for Failure to Register Under the Sex Offender Registration Act, he is known to frequent the Ridge Road area of the Town of Colesville. Pruitt is a balding white male, 6'2", 260 pounds with brown eyes, Anyone with information on Pruitt can submit tips to gobroomecounty.com/sheriff or call (607) 778-1196.

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The Sidney Alumni Sports Hall of Fame Induction weekend starts today & continues on Saturday with the dinner & ceremony starting at 4:00 PM at the Sidney Elks Lodge on River Street, spokesman Larry Halbert told WCDO about the Inductees:

(Larry Halbert 9-20-24)

This event is also a key fundraiser for the school’s athletic scholarship.

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Foothills Performing Arts Center will be the site of a number of events today through Sunday, titled the "Foothills Fringe', Executive Director Geoff Doyle explains:

(Geoff Doyle 9-20-24)

More information about this & future events can be found at foothillspac.org.

The Binghamton Rumble Ponies announced that they will have a "Garage Sale" this Sunday at Mirabito Stadium. Game worn Jerseys, Helmets bats & baseballs will be available, from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM.

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