WCDO Radio News

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

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

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

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

State Police released the names of the people involved in a 2-car Head-On crash in the Town of Columbus Saturday. 27 year old Bradley Prosser of Sherburne was the driver of the first vehicle that crossed into the opposing lane and crashed head on into a 2nd vehicle. Prosser was pronounced dead at the scene, he had a .23 BAC according to the autopsy report. Prosser’s passenger, 26 year old Tasha Carney of Edmeston suffered minor injuries from the crash. The driver of the 2nd vehicle was 46 year old Shannon Donnelly-Travis of Schuyler Lake; she was airlifted to Upstate Medical Center in Syracuse, for a fractured arm and leg.

State Senator Fred Akshar continued the 2nd year of his "Akshar's All-Stars" student recognition program on Tuesday by recognizing students at 4 school districts. At the Harpursville High School, Akshar recognized senior Colin LaDue for his leadership, dedication and many contributions to his school and community. At the Afton High School, Akshar recognized sophomore Logan Ives for her selfless devotion to charity and giving back to others in need. At Bainbridge-Guilford High School, Akshar recognized senior Tannar Cliffe for his kindness and dependability both in and out of school. At DCMO BOCES in Norwich, Akshar recognized senior Destin Foley for his energy and dedication to both his academic studies and to helping others in the classroom.

Firefighters from Sherburne & 2 other local departments responded to a fire at Crandall's Auto on Blanding Road in Sherburne last night at about 8:30 PM. No injuries were reported, the building was completely destroyed; investigators are trying to determine how that fire started.

The Chenango Arts Council's 2019 Grants for Teachers application deadline has been extended until this Friday, December 21st. The Program provides up to $500 to K-12 teachers in Chenango County who find innovative ways to integrate the arts into the regular school curriculum through projects that are not covered by the school budget. Teachers currently employed by a public or private school in Chenango County are eligible to apply; more information is available at chenangoarts.org/grants/grants-for-teachers. Awards will be made in February 2019.

A Free Christmas Dinner will be available in Sidney this year on Christmas Day at the Sidney Fire Station, organizer Gene Schmidt comments:

(Gene Schmidt 12-19-18)

More information about the free Christmas day Dinner is available at 607-610-4030; this year will be the 6th year that Schmidt & his family have offered the free Christmas dinner.

Lieutenant Governor Kathy Hochul will tour several area business today. Hochul will Tour Amphenol Aerospace in Sidney this morning at 9:15, Corning Incorporated in Oneonta, at 10:30, and then at 1:30 this afternoon she will tour Chobani in New Berlin.

Otsego County Chamber of Commerce will host the state Mandated Anti-Harassment Policies and Sexual Harassment Training today, from 8:30 to 10:00 AM. New York State mandates ALL employers to adopt a sexual harassment prevention policy as well as to train ALL employees on sexual harassment prevention. The Seminar will be held at the Otsego County Chamber/Otsego Now Offices at 189 Main Street on the 5th floor, in Oneonta.

Governor Cuomo announced his agenda for the 1st 100 days of 2019 on Monday. Among the items on his agenda: adopting a Progressive Tax System, Cut Middle Class Taxes, Protecting Affordable Health Care, Gender Equality, Combat Gun Violence, ensure Clean, Safe Drinking Water, Pass the Child Victims Act & Legalize Adult Use of Recreational Marijuana.

Delaware County Sheriff’s Deputies arrested 40 year old Brenna Talbot of Walton for Aggravated Unlicensed Operation 3rd degree following a traffic stop on County Highway 21 in the Town of Franklin. Talbot was additionally charged with unlicensed operator, operating without a headlight. She was released on tickets returnable to Franklin Town Court at a later date.

Walton Central School Superintendent Roger Clough has been placed on administrative leave, the High School Principal Rob Knuschke & Assistant Principal Mark Lamoreaux & Middle School Principal Andy Gates have all resigned in recent weeks, following alleged misconduct by Clough while serving as Superintendent since 2013. Clough has hired a Syracuse Law firm; they have begun the process to sue the District, the Board of Education, and Board President Ronda Williams. The Walton School Board released a statement to WCDO today, first the stated that personnel matters cannot be discussed, secondly, 3 of the Walton Administrators accepted positions in other districts, the Board will consider all options to quickly work on replacements, & they are confident that they will have capable staff in place for their opening day events.

The last concert at the Don Clayton Memorial Trailside Concert Series in Sidney will feature the Sidney Community Band Tonight. The concert will begin at 6:30 under the pavilion at Keith Clark Park on River Street; the concert is free and open to the public,

The Bainbridge-Guilford Central School will hold a Board of Education Meeting tonight at the BAINBRIDGE TOWN HALL at 6:30 PM. The business Portion of the meeting will start at 7:00 PM.

The City of Oneonta will be performing maintenance on the upper and middle levels of the parking garage on Monday beginning at 4:00 a.m. The upper level entrance and exit will be open for the duration. All vehicles must be removed from the mid-level no later than 7:00 PM this Sunday. The upper and lower levels of the garage will remain open, and all other municipal parking lots, at Dietz Street, Wall Street & the Westcott Lot will remain open. More information is available at 431-1365.

Graduates of SUNY Oneonta will walk the stage in 3 ceremonies on Saturday: the School of Social Science at 9:00 AM, the School of Arts and Humanities and School of Natural and Mathematical Sciences at 1 PM and the School of Education and Human Ecology and School of Economics and Business at 4:00 PM. Receptions will be held after each on the academic quad.

The Tri Town Theater will be performing "4 Weddings & An Elvis" for 3 performances at the Sidney High School this weekend. Steve Quimby is a veteran actor who performed early in his career with the Late Jack Deuel in the Tri Town Theater, he told WCDO News that he was honored to be asked to direct this play, & he is dedicating his efforts in Jack's memory:

(Steve Quimby 5-11-18)

Performances will be tonight & Saturday Night at 7:30 PM, and a Sunday Matinee at 2:00 PM, Tickets are available at the door.

The Delaware County Historical Association will feature Kurt Reigel, who owns & is restoring the Andrew Mann Inn on State Route 7 Riverside Sidney. The presentation will begin at 2:00 pm Saturday regarding the building that was built in 1787; it was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1980. There is no admission fee for this event, more information, is available at 746-3849.

The 20th annual SADD “Strides for Safety” 5K will be held Sunday in Oneonta. Students will run, or walk from upper East Street to the Oneonta High School, money raised will go to facilitate activities that promote drug- and alcohol-free lifestyles, for teenagers.

The St. Luke's Lutheran Church Parish Nurse Committee and the Sidney Area Youth Advocate Program will present the documentary "Chasing The Dragon" on Saturday, April 14th at 2:00 PM. Organizer Ronnie Haag told WCDO News that the documentary focuses on the addiction stories of young people addicted to opioids:

(Ronnie Haag 4-13-18)

the content is considered acceptable for youths in Middle School and up, refreshments & a discussion will follow.

DCMO BOCES is hosting an educational forum on Thursday at the Sidney Central School District Auditorium, featuring educational consultant Mark Perna. BOCES Superintendent Perry Dewey told WCDO news about this important forum:

(Perry Dewey 4-10-18)

Dewey said that people can register for this event at DCMOBOCES.com; more information is available at 335-1200

Governor Cuomo announced the nation's largest state investment in computer science, as the new state Budget includes a $6 million annual investment in professional development for teachers, paired with the creation of new academic standards for computer science. The program is designed to ensure that every elementary, middle, and high school across the state provides computer science education by 2025.

The Otsego County Planning Department & New York Department of State are hosting a land use training work at the Milford Central School Auditorium, today from 5:00 to 8:15PM. 2 sessions will be offered covering planning, zoning, and General Municipal Law. The sessions offered in this workshop can qualify to meet the state requirement for members of planning boards and zoning boards of appeals. To register, call the Planning Department at 547-4225 or otsegocountyworkshop.eventbrite.com.

The next meeting of the Tri-Town Coalition on Substance Abuse prevention, will be held tonight in Sidney. The meeting will begin at 6:00 PM at the Sidney Library.

Norwich City Police arrested Regina Donovan on charges of Making a Terroristic Threat against a staff member at the Norwich School District Middle School. Donovan was arraigned & was released on her own recognizance, an order of protection was put in place for the staff member & grand jury action is anticipated in April.

State Police arrested John Griffioen for Reckless Endangerment & Disorderly Conduct, after troopers discovered that Griffioen deliberately caused a traffic hazard by parking his vehicle in the middle of West Hill Road in the town of Worcester, which almost caused a school bus with 31 passengers to collide with his vehicle. He is accused of approaching the bus and shouting at the bus driver. Griffioen was released on appearance tickets and is due in the town of Worcester Court on March 20th.

The Sidney Chamber of Commerce is holding a St. Patrick's Day Parade along with other activities this Saturday, Chamber Spokesperson Teri Schunk explains:

(Teri Schunk 3-16-18)

Those who would like to sign up to participate in the parade can do so today by calling 435-5620, others participating in the St. Patrick's Day festivities in Sidney include Main Street 88 Tavern, the Houndstooth Bakery & Boutique, Awestruck Ciders, Sidney Flowers & Gifts, Trackside Dining, & Ermetti's Community Lounge.

Afton Sertoma Club will hold their 15th annual “Goofy Golf” fundraiser tomorrow from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM at the Afton Central School. Prizes will be awarded & money raised will support Afton Sertoma programs.

Saint Luke's Church, Parish Nurse Committee & the Sidney Area Youth Advocate Prgram will be presenting the documentary "Chasing The Dragon" free of charge, on Saturday April 14th at St. Luke's. The film deals with the issue of heroin & Opiod Abuse in Graphic Terms, and is a must see, according to Sidney Area Youth Advocate Program Spokesperson Ronnie Haag:

(Ronnie Haag 3-15-18)

Haag said that Parents & children middle school age & up are especially encouraged to attend, Light Refreshaments & a discussion is scheduled after the Documentary is screened.

Sheriffs from all over the state are pushing for lawmakers to include money for enough resource officers to be stationed at every school district in the state, Delaware County Sheriff Craig Dumond comments:

(Dumond 3-15-18)

The Sheriff's Association lobbied lawmakers to include the money in the state budget, following an increase in mass shootings at schools since January nationwide.

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

State Senator Fred Akshar will continue with his "Akshar's All-Stars" student recognition program Thursday at the Greene High School as well as the Union-Endicott High School & the Owego Free Academy. Each month, Senator Akshar recognizes three or four local students selected by their school districts in the 52nd Senate District who have shown great leadership, compassion, & school spirit. Akshar will appear at the Greene High School at 12:15PM Thursday.

The Tri-Town Coalition On Substance Abuse Prevention will hold their next meeting at the Sidney High School Library on Wednesday, January 31st from 6:00 to 7:30 PM. Topics of discussion will be the "Truth Pharm” Parental Education Program, a Review of the "Chasing the Dragon" documentary & planning for the 2018 year.

The Unatego School District Board of Education is holding a special vote today from 12:00 noon to 8:00 PM, in the Unatego Middle/High School building in Wells Bridge. Eligible voters in the Unatego district will vote on the leasing of 3 large and 1 small passenger school buses.

The Village of Sidney is reminding Main Street area property owners & residents to NOT use salt or salt-like products on the newly poured concrete this winter. Sand is available by request to building & businesses owners or caretakers to throw sand on any snow this winter, as the rock salt could be harmful to the new concrete. More information is available at 561-2329 Monday through Friday between 7:00 AM & 2:30 PM.

State Senator Fred Akshar will be visiting classrooms in 3 more schools Today as part of his new district-wide "Akshar All-Star" student recognition program. Akshar will visit the Tioga Central High School in Barton, The Vestal Middle School Library & at 2:00pm, the Oxford High School

The Bassett Mobile Screening Coach is coming to Sidney today. The screenings will be offered from 9a-2:30p at the Great American in Sidney and on Tuesday, December 5th from 9a-3p at the Bassett Healthcare Clinic in Walton. More information is available at 1-888-345-0225.

The Afton Central School District Board of Education has invited 2 candidates to interview for the Superintendent position. A forum for each candidate will be held next week, with the forum with Daniel Erickson; who is the middle school principal in Johnson City, will be November 28th, from 5:30 to 6:30 PM in the Afton Central School auditorium. Timothy McNamara is the principal in the Downsville Central School District; his public forum will be on November 30th from 5:30 to 6:30 PM in the Afton Central School auditorium.

CDO Workforce and BEAM are offering a free Interviewing Workshop Today, at 11:00 am at the CDO Workforce Center, at the Sidney Civic Center. Participants can learn about the interview process; clarifying Interview questions; knowing your resume; selling yourself; anticipate questions and answering difficult questions. Reservations are requested at 832-5776, walk-ins are also welcome to attend.

The Sidney Chamber of Commerce announced that the annual Jolly Holly Days parade would be held on Friday December 1st in Downtown Sidney. Interested participants are asked to contact the Sidney Chamber Office at 561-2642.

A large cast of actors from all over the Southern Tier will perform in the Afton Community Theater's production of Shrek The Musical for 3 performances starting tonight at the Afton Central School. Director Brandy Engle comments:

(Brandy Engel)

The shows will be tonight at 7:00 PM, Saturday Night at 7:00 PM, & Sunday Afternoon at 2:00 PM.

A Sidney 5K Walk or Run will be held this Sunday at 1:30 PM, to raise money for the fight against childhood cancer. Sidney Heath Education Teacher Jonathan Yurka explains:

(Jonathan Yurka 10-20-17)

The event will be held between the Sidney High School & Middle school buildings Sunday afternoon with a variety of food & entertainment also scheduled.

A fundraiser is being held Sunday in Sidney, for a recently departed Masonville resident who lost a battle with cancer. The Benefit for Kenny Cutting will be held at the American Legion beginning at 1:00 PM, to assist the family with bills associated with the illness. There will be a $5.00 charge at the door, plus donations will also be accepted.

A Sidney 5K Walk or Run will be held this Sunday, with a variety of events scheduled to go along with the run, to raise money for the fight against childhood cancer. Sidney Heath Education Teacher Jonathan Yurka explains:

(Jonathan Yurka 10-17-17)

More information about the race is available at localraces.com, and then search for "Warriors” the event will be held between the Sidney High School & Middle school buildings Sunday afternoon.

State Senator Fred Akshar & Assembly Members Donna Lupardo and Cliff Crouch will hold a public Town Hall Meeting to discuss the repurposing of the Broome Developmental Center to provide substance abuse treatment to individuals struggling with addiction. Officials from the Office of Alcoholism and Substance Abuse Services, Syracuse Behavioral Health, Broome County Department of Social Services and the Broome County Health Department will answer questions and address concerns related to the repurposing project. The Meeting will be held on Thursday, October 26th from 6:00 to 8:00 PM at Chenango Valley High School at 221 Chenango Bridge Rd.

A Motorcyclist was airlifted to Wilson hospital after colliding with a pick up truck on State Route 12 in the town of Norwich this morning at 11:15. Lifenet of Sidney was called in to transport the operator of the motorcycle, whose name has not been released. The investigation is ongoing.

The Unatego School District Board of Education will hold their next regular meeting at the Middle School/ High School today in Room 93. The session will begin at 6:30 PM, with the open portion beginning at 7:00 PM.

Sidney Mayor Andy Matviak has announced a series of Meetings to get the public & the businesses owners up to date on the progress of the Main Street Revitalization Project:

(Andy Matviak 10-2-17)

Matviak said that the delays are making the board considering stopping the project for the winter after the one side is completed, and then begin the other side of Main Street next spring.

Delaware County Public Health will hold a Free Rabies Vaccination Clinic For dogs, cats and ferrets today. The clinic will run from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM at the Sidney Fire Hall on River Street, more information is available at 832-5200 or delawarecountypublichealth.com.

The next meeting of the Tri-Town Coalition on Substance Abuse Prevention is being held today, at 6:00 PM at the Sidney Middle School Library.

Governor Cuomo was in Johnson City this morning, to deliver state funds to assist the Regional Econimic Development's wishes to assist Binghamton area businesses add jobs:

(Cuomo 8-2-17)

The State has already invested more than $3.1 billion in the region since 2012, recent REDC efforts in Binghamton have led to the building of the new Pharmacy School in Johnson City & the expansion of the Decker School of Nursing into a bigger facility.

Area Law Enforcement Agencies will team up with Area Dunkin Donuts locations to raise money for the "Cops On Top" fundraiser. Sidney Police Chief Jan Gorshack told WCDO News that the SIdney Police Deaprtment will be involved Friday:

(Jan Gorshack 8-2-17)

Police officers will also assist in the fundraising efforts in Bainbridge, Norwich, Vestal, Binghamton, Johnson City & Whitney Point this coming Friday morning.

New York State has announced a new round of funding for a program aimed at keeping students from dropping out of school. The state Education Department on Monday said 44 colleges and universities would receive a total of $17 million as part of the Liberty Partnerships Program. Under the program, colleges partner with struggling schools and community-based organizations to help middle and high school students who are at risk of dropping out complete school and go on to college. Commissioner MaryEllen Elia says the program gives students access to skills assessment, tutoring, counseling and mentoring. The program was started in 1988.

The Sidney Center Improvement Group will be holding their Luck Day Auction Sunday from 1:00 to 5:00 PM. Group Spokesman Mike Sellitti explains:

(Mike Sellitti 7-26-17)

The event will be held at the Sidney Center Fire Department Sunday. More information is available at scigny.org or the Sidney Center Improvement group facebook page.

The next Meeting of the Coalition On Substance Abuse Prevention will be today at 6:00 PM at the Sidney Middle School Library. The Coaltion is looking for board members, potential officers and committee chair persons to join in the effort, interested residents are invited to attend tonight's meeting.

An American Red Cross Blood drive will be held today in Sidney. The drive will be held from 2:30 to 6:30 PM at Tri-Town Regional Hospital, Appointments can be made with the Red Cross Blood Donor App, at redcrossblood.org or 1-800-RED CROSS.

Lawmakers were called back to Albany today for an Extraordinary session to deal with some left over legislation that was not dealt with before the end of the 2017 session last Wednesday. Local Assemblyman Cliff Crouch said that some of the bills really should be dealt with by the local municipalities, and not the state legislature:

(Cliff Crouch 6-28-17)

In the last weeks of the legislative session, state lawmakers had to decide on what Crouch called "Home Rule" issues, like allowing for counties to continue to collect sales tax, in addition to the issue of New York City Mayor Bill DeBlasio overseeing the City schools.

Delaware County Sheriff's Deputies & local EMT’s responded to a 1 car roll-over accident with entrapment, at approximately 2:00 PM Tuesday on State Highway 28 in the Town of Middletown. 78 year old Doris Hubar of Margaretville was extricated from the overturned vehicle & was transported to Margaretville Memorial Hospital and was transferred to Albany Medical Center for further treatment. Hubar may have experienced a medical emergency while driving, causing her to lose control & flip her vehicle after striking a tree. No tickets have been issued, the investigation is continuing.

The Tri-Town Coalition On Substance Abuse Prevention meeting will be this evening at 6:00 pm in the Sidney Middle School Cafeteria-Gym. The agenda for the meeting will be action planning for the upcoming 2017/2018 coalition year. This meeting will be led by the Prevention Resource Center and the National Guard Counterdrug Task Force.

The Village of Sidney announced today that Keith Clark Park will be closed until further notice, as a safety precaution. The Susquehanna River is expected to crest Friday, Those who live near the River, or any other waterways in the region can check river levels & predictions at wcdoonline.com, and click on the river levels icon.

The Sidney Chamber of Commerce has selected their annual Business of Year and Citizens of years award winners at this week’s meeting, Chamber President Stephanie Taylor explains:

(Steph Taylor 4-6-17)

Paul Eaton and Carl Griffiths & the Sidney Elks Club will receive their honors at the Chamber's annual Dinner in June.

Governor Cuomo announced that there were only a few more items to negotiate for the state Budget plan, at a press conference last night:

(Cuomo 4-6-17)

Cuomo said that agreements were made on the Millionaire’s Tax, on the middle-class tax cut, on the Clean Water program, on ride sharing, on college affordability, workers comp, property tax reform, a prescription drug program & an opioid program.

The Bainbridge-Guilford Central School will hold a Board of Education Meeting on Thursday, April 6, 2017 in the District Conference Room at 6:30 PM. The business portion of the meeting will start at 7:00 PM.

The village of Sidney will be putting bids out in the next couple of weeks for the Main Street Project, with an eye on getting the projects under by the end of may or early June, which led to SFCU Officials deciding to cancel this year’s home town day parade. Sidney Mayor Andy Matviak explains:

(Andy Matviak 4-4-17)

SFCU officials announced that they fully plan on running the next Hometown Day Parade in June of 2018.

Opioid Overdose training will be held the next 2 nights at the Bainbridge Guilford high school. The training session will begin at 6:00 PM tonight & Wednesday night, all participants will be taught how to administer Naloxone & will receive a free rescue kit. More information is available at 967-6321.

Governor Cuomo announced the passage of a budget extender in order to continue all state operations and the $16.4 billion New York construction and economic development plan for the next complete fiscal year. Local Assemblyman Cliff Crouch said that he voted against the extender:

(Crouch 4-4-17)

Governor Cuomo said that agreements must still be made on free college tuition for the middle class, funding public schools, middle class tax cuts, & the controversial "Raise the Age" proposal, which calls for raising the age of criminal responsibility for 16 & 17 year olds.

A free entrepreneur workshop, "Customer Discovery Tactics," will be held today from 6:30-8:00 pm in the Oxford Academy Primary School. The presentation will be led by Southern Tier Startup Alliance

Governor Cuomo discussed his plans to strengthen the Upstate economy, with income tax cuts for middle class families, free tuition at SUNY & CUNY Schools for middle class families, and the continuing of the Regional Economic Development Councils.

(Cuomo 1-23-17)

Lawmakers will begin hearing later this week on various aspects of the Governor's 152 Billion Dollar Executive Budget Proposal.

The Unatego School District Board of Education will be deciding next month on the recommendations from a Facilities study on the district's buildings. Unatego Superintendent Dave Richards explains:

(Dave Richards 1-23-17)

Richards said that the 2 Elementary school buildings are each about 90 years old & would require millions of dollars in renovations, however the need for the extra space is negated by the fact that the district population has decreased by 28% over the last 10 years.

THE UNADILLA CHAMBER of Commerce IS HOSTING THE 4 CHAMBER MIXER at Green's Long River Inn, Unadilla today. The Meeting will begin at 6:30 pm for members of the Unadilla, Sidney, and Bainbridge & Afton Chambers of Commerce.

State Senator Jim Seward addressed the Sidney Rotary club this afternoon, & discussed the upcoming legislative session. Seward told WCDO News that he would like to see movement quickly on the Constitution Pipeline in order for planned expansion for area businesses to go forward:

(Senator Seward 1-13-17)

The 2017 Legislative session will begin dealing with Governor Cuomo's aggressive agenda shortly.

The Sidney Central School Alumni Association invites the public to an Open House & ribbon Cutting for the New Alumni Room, In Room 102 Of The Sidney Middle School. Alumni Association spokesman Greg Davie explains:

(Greg Davie 1-13-17)

More information about the association is available at sidneyalumni.org.

State Senator Jim Seward will be in Sidney for the weekly meeting of the Rotary Club. Senator Seward will discuss his priorities for the year ahead, as the Rotary Club’s featured speaker today. Sidney Rotary meets at 12:00 Noon at St Luke’s Lutheran Church; 139 West Main Street;

There is 1 more week left for the Sidney Chamber Of Commerce "Passport Game" Sidney Chamber President Stephanie Taylor explains:

(Steph Taylor 12-12-16)

Taylor said that the winner of the Passport game would be announced on December 19th at 2:00 PM. More information is available at the Sidney Chamber's new office at 85 Main Street.

The Binghamton Rumble Ponies have recruited the Maine-Endwell Little League World Series Champions to help them unveil their new uniforms on Wednesday, at 5:30 PM. Rumble Ponies officials will bring the 4 new team uniforms to the Maine-Endwell Middle School auditorium; they will be sported by members of the Maine-Endwell Little League team in a special presentation.

The Village of Sidney, along with officials with Delaware County & the Governors Office of Storm Recovery, will host a meeting on Wednesday December 14th at the Sidney High School Auditorium. Sidney Village Mayor Andy Matviak said that there are plans for 122 more Buyouts of flood damaged properties, among other items to be discussed:

(Andy Matviak 12-9-16)

The meeting will run from 6:30 to 8:30 as the village continues to make plans for the buyouts, new townhouses & related infrastructure, The Senior apartments in civic center, which was officially sold last week, more information is available at 561-2320

The Sidney Students against Destructive Decisions are hosting a community holiday party from 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM Saturday, at the Sidney middle school gymnasium. The day will feature games, arts and crafts with elves, as well as being able to visit with Santa Claus. Pizza, hot cocoa, and cookies will be provided and will be available in the middle school cafeteria. The event is open to the public and free of charge. Gently used clothes and other items are available to the community in the middle school rubber room during the event.

Afton Central School has teamed up with NBT Bank to add financial education to its curriculum. The school is bringing NBT Bank's Strive® financial literacy programs to students in pre-kindergarten through second grade. NBT Bank Customer Service Representative Jennifer Cower will visit students today, The session will enhance the student’s math and science lessons.

The City Of Oneonta announced that Minor Painting work in the middle level & the down ramp of the Municipal Parking Garage will begin Tuesday. The top Level, & the south bay of the middle level will be closed to traffic & parking, the up ramp tot eh top level will be closed at the Chestnut Street Extension, parking will be allowed in 2/3rds of the middle level & all of the bottom level. The work is expected to take about 4 days to complete.

The Next UNATEGO BOARD OF EDUCATION MEETING WILL BE HELD this evening at 6:30 PM. THe meeting will be held at the MIDDLE/SENIOR HIGH SCHOOL IN Wells Bridge in Room 93. The MEETING WILL GO INTO EXECUTIVE SESSION TO DISCUSS CSE RECOMMENDATIONS WITH THE REGULAR MEETING TO START AT 7:00 PM.

The Delaware County Sheriff’s Office announces the arrest of 3 Margaretville people on Sealed Grand Jury Indictment Warrants. Deputies and Investigators arrested 39 year old Christopher Fairbairn for allegedly selling heroin in the Town of Middletown. 69 year old Salvatore Esposito was arrested for allegedly selling Oxycodone & Fentanyl transdermal patches from his residence. 62 year old Karen Certain was charged for allegedly selling hydrocodone in Margaretville. While acting on the Warrant, Investigators discovered marihuana being grown outside Certain’s residence, they arrested 61 year old Robert Cline for Unlicensed Cultivation of Cannabis. All face court action shortly.

The Sidney Village Board will have a special meeting tonight at 7:00 PM, to discuss Village Court Personel. The board will meet in executive session.

Delaware County Deputies arrested 78-year-old Sidney Cunningham of Unadilla for DWI & failure to keep right, following a 1-car accident on Dunshee Road in the Town of Sidney. Cunningham was released on his appearance tickets to the Town of Sidney Court on July 14th.

Lawmakers wrapped up their 2016 session Friday, State Senator Jim Seward Comments:

(Seward 6-20-16)

Seward also mentioned a $1.5 billion increase in school aid, eliminating the Gap Elimination Adjustment, provided resources to improve our upstate roads and bridges, and tax cuts for the middle-class.

Local lawmakers are weighing in on the new state budget plan, area state senator Jim Seward comments:

(Seward 4-1-16)

Seward said that the Budget includes the Minimum wage increase to $15.00 an hour by 2021, something that was opposed to, he approves of the $1 billion dollar Middle Class Tax cut in the 1st year, which will reach $4.2 Billion dollars when implemented over the next several years.

The out of the woodwork players have assembled a 28 member cast for the play "A Funny Little Thing Call Love" Area Merchant & Local Theater veteran Rich Cooley told WCDO News that he read the script, loved it and then went about putting together the largest production in recent memory:

(Rich Cooley 4-1-16)

The play will be held at the Bainbridge Town Hall Theater Performances: Friday, April 15th & Saturday, April 16th at 7:00pm, and Sunday April 17th at 2:00pm. Tickets can be purchased at owptheatre@yahoo.com OR contact or at Cooley's jewelers on Main Street in Sidney at 563-1311.

Governor Cuomo announced a last minute agreement with legislative leaders on the 2016-17 state budget, which includes Raising the minimum wage to $15 an hour in every region of the state by 2021, Enacting a paid family leave policy, Holding the growth in state spending to 2%, Cutting the personal income tax, Providing $24.8 billion in School Aid, & ending the Gap Elimination Adjustment. The budget also includes Investing $55 billion in the largest state transportation plan ever approved – including $27 billion for the DOT and Thruway and $27 billion for the MTA of New York City.

State Police responded to a Broome County 911 report of shots fired in the area of 117 Glenwood Road in the Town of Dickinson near the Binghamton City Line early Thursday Monring. 2 people were in a vehicle heading south on Glenwood Road when a suspect fired 5 or 6 shots at their vehicle, the driver attempted to leave quickly but struck several parked vehicles and came to rest in the middle of the roadway. No injuries were received. Troopers from the Special Operations Response Team have not located the shooter, the road is re-opened to traffic. State Police were assisted by the Binghamton Police Department and Broome County Sheriff’s Department, the investigation is ongoing.

Those who may have an idea for a business or a product, but don't know how to get started, are invited to "Pitch Night" at the Oxford high School Auditorium on March 24th at 7:00 PM. A Panel featuring members of Commerce Chenango & The southern Tier Startup Alliance will be on hand, according to organizer Steve Palmatier:

(Steve Palmatier 3-4-16)

Those wishing to present an idea should be prepared to give a 3 to 5 minute presentation; more information is available at 336-7727

NYSEG reports a power outage this morning & this afternoon affecting 649 customers in Otsego County. Affected areas include the towns of Butternuts, Gilbertsville, Mount Upton & Unadilla, Students at the Gilbertsville Mount Upton School District were dismissed early due to the power outage, Crews hope to have the power restored as soon as possible.

The American Red Cross will hold Blood Drives Saturday at 2 area locations. One blood drive will be from 8:00 AM To 1:00 PM At the Main Street Baptist Church at 333 Main Street in Oneonta. Another Blood drive will be from 8:00 AM to 12:00 PM At the 1st congregational Church at Bridge & Main Streets in Sidney. All Blood Types are needed; appointments can be made at RedCrossBlood.org, through the Red Cross Blood Donor App or by calling 1-800-RED CROSS.

The Sidney Rotary club will sponsored the 3rd annual "PINS FOR POLIO BOWL-A-THON" today at 7:00 PM AT East Main Lanes in Sidney. Participants do not have to be Rotarians to bowl; pre registration is requested with Rosemary Fisher at East Main Lanes at 563-BOWL.

Many Sidney Main Street businesses went "Blue" today, to increase awareness about colorectal cancer and encouraging them to get screened for this preventable disease. Stephanie Thorne of the Cancer Services Program of Delaware, Otsego and Schoharie Counties comments:

(Stephanie Thorne 3-4-16)

Thorne said that More than half of deaths from colon cancer can be prevented with regular screening and it’s still the #2 cause of death among New Yorkers. More information is available at 1-888-345-0225.

The Sidney High School Drama Club will Perform "Grease" at 7:30 PM tonight, Saturday at 2:30 PM & 7:30 PM. The performance will be held at the Sidney High School Auditorium, tickets can be purchased at the High School Main Office or at the door prior to each performance.

Eclipse Winterguard will be holding a benefit Spaghetti & Meatball Dinner and Basket Raffle today at the Sidney American Legion, 22 Union Street, from 5 - 8 pm. The Fundraiser is for 4 year old Savannah who was injured in an accident on Feb 20th. Dinner is $10 per plate, all proceeds and donations will go to the family.

THE AMERICAN RED CROSS WILL HOLD A BLOOD DRIVE AT THE LAURENS HIGH SCHOOL ON 64 MAIN STREET today, from, 3:00 TO 7:00 PM. ALL BLOOD TYPES ARE NEEDED AT THIS TIME. TO MAKE AN APPOINTMENT, VISIT REDCROSSBLOOD.OR OR CALL 1-800 RED CROSS.

Oneonta city officials announced a public meeting would be held today at 7:00 PM in the Oneonta Middle school cafeteria, regarding the status of the citywide property revaluations that were conducted last year. Representatives from the firm that conducted the revaluation will be present along with the city assessor to let residents know when they can expect to be notified, how to interpret their notice and how to make inquiries. More information is available at 432-2397 or by email: rmaxwell@oneonta.ny.us

The Sidney Chamber of Commerce has refurbished their website, chamber president Stephanie Taylor Explains:

(Steph Taylor 2-24-16)

the Sidney Chamber website is located at SidneyChamber.org.