WCDO Radio News

A.M. NEWS Wednesday 5-20-26

Chenango County Sheriff's Office responded Monday to State Highway 12 in the Town of Norwich for a reported motor vehicle versus bicycle crash. The preliminary investigation determined that a 69-year-old male from Oxford, NY was operating an E-bike on the southbound shoulder of the roadway when he entered the southbound lane and was struck by a vehicle operated by a 16-year-old male traveling southbound. The operator of the E-bike was airlifted to Upstate Medical Center in Syracuse, where he remains in critical condition. The investigation is ongoing.

Area School District budgets were passed yesterday, mostly by large margins. Sidney voters approved the budget, the purchase of 2 Diesel busses & the library budget, budgets and propositions passed in Franklin, GMU, BG, Unatego & Afton. Norwich School District voters voted against a plan to sell the Flanagan Field property, which would have allowed for a housing complex to be built there, Milford voters decided against a plan to eliminate seats on the School Board, in Oxford voters turned down a proposal for the purchase of zero emissions vehicles. ============================================

Chenango County Grand Jury indicted Brandon Birch for Aggravated unlicensed operation of a motor vehicle, driving while ability impaired by drugs, unlawful fleeing a police officer in a motor vehicle, Criminal possession of a controlled and reckless driving, on December 26th in Afton, Birch is accused of operated a vehicle on State Highway 7 while his driving privileges were suspended, he was impaired by fentanyl, fled State Troopers attempting a traffic stop, possessed fentanyl, and drove at speeds up to 90 miles an hour in a 55 mile an hour zone. Birch faces additional court action on the indictment shortly.

Another Community meeting will be held tonight in Norwich among those bringing the "Turtle Island Festival" to the Chenango County Fairgrounds in July, Chenango County Historical Society Executive Director Jessica Moquin explains:

(Jessica Moquin 4-15-26)

Community members are encouraged to attend, on April 15th at 6:00 PM at the SUNY Morrisville Norwich campus at 20 Conkey Avenue in Norwich, more information is available at 607-334-9227.

The Tri-County Seniors will present the 2nd of 3 discussions regarding end of decisions that seniors will have to make, Organizer Carol Allen told WCDO News about today's discussion:

(Carol Allen 4-15-26)

The program will be held in the Smart Community Room at the Sidney Public Library starting at 10:30 this morning.

Republican Candidate Terry Bernardo will hold a Meet & Greet with local voters, on Sunday from 12:00 Noon until 2:00 PM, at the Community Cultural Center at 1 Bridge Street in Sidney. Bernardo is running for the 51 State Senate District, seeking to replace Peter Oberacker, who has decided to run for Congress in the next election.

A.M. NEWS FRIDAY 3-20-26

State Police responded to Hancock High School Thursday morning for a report of shots fired. Police investigated & found no evidence of a shooting & no threat to the public.

The Afton Sertoma Club's Goofy Golf event will be held at the Afton School Saturday, starting at 11:00 am, participants will play miniature golf throughout the school building, the event is the Sertoma's key fundraiser to fund area programs.

Chobani announced that they awarded $400,000 in grants to 40 nonprofit groups through the eighth annual Community Impact Fund. The grants will go to organizations in Central New York, Idaho, Philadelphia and Muskegon Michigan. Locally, the Afton Central Schools will use the funds to build a greenhouse for agricultural education and to supply fresh produce for the FFA Food Pantry. The Food Bank of Central New York will support its Senior Grocery Program, the Norwich City School District will expand its backpack program, the Oneonta Middle School will provide grocery gift cards to families throughout the year, and the Cooperstown Food Pantry will use its grant to offer year-round farmers market vouchers, SNAP matching and CSA shares from regional farms.

Sidney Federal Credit Union announced a $1 million community support initiative for 2026, titled "Why SFCU? 1 Million Reasons," the initiative seeks to make a difference in the lives of residents throughout the region, Chief Retail Officer Andrew Smith explains:

(Andrew Smith 1-29-26)

Smith said that they will be announcing the organizations that will benefit from the initiative shortly, more information is available at sfcuonline.org/1millionreasons or follow @sidneyfcu on social media.

An American Red Cross Blood Drive is being held today in Delhi from 10:30 am. - 4:30 pm., at the State University Farrell Student & Community Center, on Delhi Drive; book an appointment to give blood or platelets now by using the Blood Donor App, visiting RedCrossBlood.org or calling 1-800-RED CROSS.

The Delaware County Business Alliance is now accepting applications for the 2026 Leaderful Delaware Emerging Leaders Program, designed for business and community leaders who are interested in becoming more engaged in shaping the region's future. The 5-session program dates are February 12, March 12, April 9, May 14, and June 11, and will be conducted by former Alliance President Ray Pucci. More information is available at 1-607-746-2281.

A.M. NEWS MONDAY 11-24-25

Delaware County District Attorney Shawn Smith announced the indictment of 18 year old James Tinebra of Plainview, A Delaware County Grand Jury indicted Tinebra for Burglary & Grand Larceny for stealing a State Police Vehicle from a repair shop in Davenport on November 5th at about 3:45 AM. Tinebra was located later in the day by the Schodack Police Department in Rensselaer County, where he is also facing separate charges.

Broome County Sheriff's Office & area firefighters responded Friday to the report of a car crashing into a house in the Town of Union. Responding deputies found that the driver, an 82-year-old female, was attempting to back out of a residential driveway and mistakenly accelerated forward off the driveway and into the adjacent house, rupturing a natural gas line. NYSEG was alerted and the gas line was turned off, nearby residents were temporarily evacuated, The driver was transported to UHS Wilson Medical Center for minor injuries. No charges were filed.

Haley Hubbard and Rendezvous Lounge will donate frozen turkeys and fixings to 25 local families in Afton today, Hubbard told WCDO News about this effort:

(Haley Hubbard 11-24-25)

Hubbard said that they chose 25 local families and they hope to do this again next year, possibly to even more families in need.

Afton Central School's Adult Education Program will be offering free G.E.D instruction into the ONC BOCES District, Program Director June White explains:

(JUNE WHITE 6-24-25)

The Programs will be available to adults 21 and over in ONEONTA, FRANKLIN, MILFORD, MORRIS, CHARLOTTE VALLEY, COOPERSTOWN among others, more information is available by calling 607-639-2811.

Catholic Charities of Sidney will hold their Roll The Dice LCR fundraising tournament on July 10th in Sidney, Spokesperson Penny McKnight explains:

(Penny McKnight 6-24-25)

The event will be held on July 10th from 5:00 to 8:00 PM at the Community Cultural Center in Sidney, more information is available at 607-604-4071.

A.M. NEWS TUESDAY 6-24-25

Today is Primary Day in New York State, The Chenango County Republican Party Primary Elections will be held in the towns of Afton, Plymouth, Smithville and Smyrna. Sample ballots can be viewed at chenangocountyny.gov; or by calling the Chenango County Board of Elections at 607-337-1760. In Delaware County: Republicans will vote for a candidate for County Treasurer between Ronda Williams & Carli Pinner; In the Town of Sidney 4 Republicans are running for 2 seats on the Town Board, between Richard DeCola, Frank Selleck, William Hunt & Andrew Hinkley. Republican primaries are being held for Town Supervisor in Colchester, Hancock, & Meredith, more information is available at the County Board of Elections page at co.delaware.ny.us. There are no Democratic Party primaries in Chenango or Delaware Counties & there are no primaries in Otsego County this year.

On Monday Morning, the Colchester Town Police Department, the Downsville Fire Department and Emergency Squad, responded to a reported motorcycle accident on State Highway 30 & Delaware County Highway 7. The operator of the motorcycle, a 42-year-old female, left the roadway and struck a ditch, she was ejected, sustained serious injuries and was transported by LifeNet of New York to Albany Medical Center for advanced medical care.

Afton Central School District will be running on a 2-hour delay today for all students. All field trips and after school activities will be canceled for the day, as the district has had issues with water quality since Wednesday morning.

The Visions Summer Concert Series at the Foothills Performing Arts Center will have a Father's Day Weekend Celebration on Saturday, Foothills Spokesman Geoff Doyle explains:

(Geoff Doyle 6-13-25)

The event runs from 12:00 Noon to 5:00 PM, more information about this & other shows is available at foothillspac.org.

The Annual Unadilla Flag Day Parade will be held this Saturday at 7:00 pm, it will go down Main Street in the Village of Unadilla, there will be an Ice cream social and bounce house after the parade in front of the Community House.

P.M. NEWS WEDNESDAY 6-4-25

Chenango County Clerk's office, the Bainbridge Chamber of Commerce and “4 Towns Forward", are teaming up for an event for area residents to apply for a US passport on June 19th at the Bainbridge Community Center, from 5:30pm to 8:00pm, Spokesman Roger Barnhart told WCDO news what people need bring with them:

(Roger Barnhart 6-4-25)

People can reserve a time slot with a passport clerk that evening, for a 15 minute period, you can call the Bainbridge Chamber of Commerce at 607-967-8700, or email at bainbridge.chamber@yahoo.com

The James R. Thomson Center for Business Development was recently dedicated by the Catskill Development Foundation in gratitude for Thompson's leadership, innovative vision, and advocacy for private sector businesses in Delaware County, Delaware County Business Alliance President Ray Pucci comments:

(Ray Pucci 6-4-25)

Thomson led the Delaware County Chamber, the County Industrial Development Agency & he helped create the e-Center facility at 5 1/2 Main Street in Delhi.

The Otsego County Sheriff’s Office arrested 53 year old Tanya Nelson of Afton following an investigation into a motor vehicle accident in the Town of Unadilla. Nelson was found to have struck another motor vehicle while at the Speedway on State Highway 8, she was found be intoxicated by alcohol and arrested, for DWI, Operating a vehicle with a BAC of .08 or highers and following too closely, she was processed and released with & was ordered to appear in court at a later date.

3 American Red Cross Blood Drives are being held in the Tri-County Area today, 1 in Cooperstown from 12 pm. - 5 pm.,at the Cooperstown Fire Department, another in Roxbury from 8:30 am. - 1:30 pm., at the Roxbury Town Hall, and another in Oneonta from 12 pm. - 5 pm., at the AO Fox Memorial Hospital Levine Center, Schedule appointments at RedCrossBlood.org, by calling 1-800-RED CROSS or by using the Red Cross Blood Donor App.

The Gilbertsville-Mount Upton’s Board of Education announced that they have offered Heather Wilcox the position of Superintendent, at Monday night’s community forum presentations at the GMU Auditorium. Wilcox is a Gilbertsville native and GMU graduate who has spent the last 13 years with the school district, Pending the successful negotiation of a contract, the Board of Education will appoint Wilcox as GMU’s next superintendent during an upcoming Board meeting. Her anticipated start date is August 1st, 1 day after Annette Hammond is set to retire as GMU’s superintendent.

The 2024 Bainbridge Guilford Holiday Craft Fair will beheld tomorrow at the BG High School Gym, from 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM, the proceeds go to the Angel fund, BG Teacher Amy LaFever explains:

(Amy LaFever 12-6-24)

LaFever said that the Lourdes Hospital Mobile Mammography Van will be parked around the corner at the Bainbridge Community Center as part of the event

The 17th Annual Holidays in the Hamlet celebration will be held Saturday from 5:00 to 7:00 PM at the Sidney Center Fire Station, Sidney Center Improvement group president Mike Sellitti explains:

(Mike Sellitti 12-6-24)

More information about future Group events benefiting the park & the hamlet can be found on the Sidney Center Improvement Group Facebook page.

The Afton Village Christmas Parade will be held Saturday, with the line up at 5:15 & the parade starts at 6:00 PM. Award Plaques will be awarded for the top 3 best interpretations of a Dickens Christmas Carol.

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

37 year old Justin Button of Kirkwood, was sentenced in Broome County Court today to 4 years in State Prison, followed by 3 years of post-release supervision for Criminal Possession of a Weapon. On March 9, 2023, Button was discovered to have a loaded and operable .25 caliber handgun while in the City of Binghamton, during a traffic stop by a Community Response Team.

Commerce Chenango is holding their annual fundraising Golf Tournament at the Afton Golf Course today, Commerce Chenango President & CEO Sal Testani explains:

(Sal Testani 9-13-24)

More information about the Golf tournament or future events can be found at commercechenango.com

The Family Resource Network will have a special 30th Anniversary Celebration at the Foothills Performing Arts Center Saturday night that is free to the public, Director Michelle Zuk explains:

(Michelle Zuk 9-13-24)

The event Saturday will run from 5:00 to 8:00 PM at Foothills in Oneonta.

DARK SARCASM, the Pink Floyd Tribute act will be at the FOOTHILLS Performing Arts Center at Market Street in Oneonta Saturday Night, spokesman Geoff Doyle told WCDO News that they are happy to have this show return:

(Geoff Doyle 4-12-24)

Doyle said that the Doors open at 6:30, the show starts at 7:30, Tickets can be purchased at foothillspac.org or at the door before the show.

Area Fire Department & Emergency Squads will be conducting open houses this month, in an effort to get more people involved in their local fire departments, following years of dwindling numbers, Bainbridge Emergency Squad member Roger Barnhart comments:

(Roger Barnhart 4-11-24)

Barnhart said that the Afton Fire Department open house tomorrow coincides with the “Recruit New York” Initiative this weekend, the Bainbridge & Unadilla Departments planning to hold their open house & recruitment events on April 27th.

The Community Cultural center in Sidney will be busy Tonight & Sunday, Spokesperson Amy Williams explains:

(Amy Williams 4-12-24)

At tonight's Comedy will be Angela Cobb opening for Vinnie Mark. Tickets are $15.00 each or 2 for $25.00. Doors open @ 7:00 pm, show @ 8:00 pm, Sunday's Jazz Musical Festival is free.

Area Fire departments & Emergency Squads will be hosting "Open Houses" this month, many on Saturday April 13th to coincide with the state's "Recruit New York" campaign, with some holding their events at other times, Bainbridge Emergency Squad member Roger Barnhart visited WCDO this morning & commented on local recruitment efforts:

(Roger Barnhart 4-4-24)

Barnhart said that anyone with a desire to help in a variety of positions is encouraged to attend the upcoming Open House events in their community, to learn more.

Commerce Chenango announced that the next Business After Hours event will be held at the UHS Chenango Memorial Women's Health Center at 32 Conkey Avenue on Wednesday April 17th. The event will run from 4:30 to 6:00 PM, RSVP's are requested by April 11th at 334-1400.

A.M. NEWS Thursday 4-4-24

State Emergency Management officials are urging New Yorkers to check travel conditions before they head outside today, depending on where in the state you are heading, wintry conditions like heavy snow, rain, sleet, and high wind gusts can be found, Travel is hazardous, for real-time travel information, motorists should call 511 or visit www.511ny.org, for traffic and travel information.

P.M. NEWS MONDAY 1-23-23

The Downtown Norwich Water Main Replacement & repaving projects are close to completion, City of Norwich Community Development Director Eric Scrivener told WCDO News that Norwich downtown businesses that suffered some losses because of the project can bet some help:

(Eric Scrivener 10-4-23)

Businesses looking to get some last minute information can call 607-334-1229, through October 31st.

The Bainbridge & Afton Girl Scouts are holding their bi annual Community Giveaway Days November 3rd & 4th at the Greenlawn Elementary school in Bainbridge, spokesperson Jessica Chambers explains:

(Jessica Chambers 10-23-23)

More information is available by Email to jjchambers@frontiernet.net, or call 267-2378, the drop off of items will be Friday November 3rd from 3:30 to 6:30 PM and the giveaway will be Saturday November 4th from 9:00 AM to 12:00 Noon.

A.M. NEWS Monday 10-23-23

State Police were dispatched Friday Night to a fatal crash on State Route 13 in the town of Newfield. A preliminary investigation reveals that a 42 year old Patrick Robinson of Ithaca lost control of a motorcycle on wet roads, laying the bike down, A Passerby, 34 year old Mathew Poplawski of Schenectady stopped to assist Robinson when a vehicle stuck both men, both were pronounced deceased on scene. The operator of the vehicle was a 57-year-old man from Illinois is cooperating with State Police, Alcohol does not appear to be a factor. The investigation is on-going.

Sidney Fire Department was dispatched to a reported structure fire with possible entrapment at approximately 5:44 am Friday at 50 East Main Street, lot 19 in the village of Sidney. All residents were out, Sidney Fire units had the fire extinguished within 15 minutes, The fire was determined as accidental in nature, starting in a bedroom. Sidney was assisted by firefighters from Bainbridge, Unadilla, Wells Bridge, Sidney Center and Sidney Fire Department Auxiliary.

The Chenango County Health Department has lifted the BOIL WATER ORDER issued for the Village of Afton, issued Saturday. The Village of Afton’s water supply currently meets the minimum standards for Public Water Supplies, Based upon repeat sampling results, Residents may now resume normal water activity, more information is available at the Environmental Division of the Chenango County Health Department at (607) 337-1673.

New York Farm Bureau is hosting a State Convention on December 4th through the 6th at the Sleepy Hollow Hotel and Convention Center in Tarrytown. This year's theme "A Bridge to Opportunity" will focus on creating new openings for farms and agribusinesses in the competitive northeast marketplace. Registration is now open at stacon.nyfb.org.

The Small Business Resource Fair will be held this Thursday from 4:00 to 6:00 pm, Sidney Community Cultural Center, Delaware County Chamber Of Commerce President Ray Pucci comments:

(Ray Pucci 8-21-23)

Pucci said that the event is free & open to all businesses and entrepreneurs, registration is available at delawarecounty.org.

P.M. NEWS MONDAY 8-21-23

State Police arrested 22 year old Dustin Dungey of Afton, for Predatory Sexual Assault Against a Child, Criminal Sexual Act, Sexual Abuse & Resisting Arrest last week, following an investigation that accuses Dungey of having inappropriate sexual contact with a child under the age of 13 in June. Dungey was arrested and was processed at State Police Troop C Headquarter in Sidney, he was transported to the Chenango County Central Arraignment and Processing where he was remanded to the Jail on $100,000 cash, $200,000 bond or $500,000 secure bond.

The Small Business Resource Fair will be held September 21st from 4:00 to 6:00 pm, Sidney Community Cultural Center, Delaware County Chamber Of Commerce President Ray Pucci comments:

(Ray Pucci 8-21-23)

Pucci said that the event is free & open to all businesses and entrepreneurs, registration is available at delawarecounty.org.

A.M. NEWS MONDAY 8-21-23

Binghamton Police & Firefighters responded Saturday to the report of shots fired & smoke coming from at 56 Howard Avenue. Binghamton police said that a man and woman were discovered inside after the fire was put out, they were taken to area hospital where they were later pronounced dead. The investigation is continuing.

The 29th Colorscape Festival will be held September 9 & 10 in in East and West Parks in Downtown Norwich. 107 artists have been accepted into this year’s show. There are 19 first-time exhibitors this fall, Colorscape Chenango Arts Festival organizers are also inviting all high school art seniors in Chenango and adjacent counties to apply for Colorscape's 2023 Francis K. Wilcox Emerging Young Artist Scholarship. 2 students will be selected to receive $350 cash awards plus a $100 gift certificate from Golden Artist Colors. The application form & more information is available at colorscape.org.

A.M. NEWS FRIDAY 5-5-23

The 4Towns Forward Community Yard Sales have been rescheduled to this Saturday, due to last Saturday's predicted rainfall, 4Towns Forward President Teri Schunk comments:

(Teri Schunk 5-5-23)

The events will be held at local homes in Afton, Bainbridge, Unadilla & Sidney, as well the old Bishop Lot in Unadilla, behind Bob's Diner in Bainbridge, at the Community Cultural Center or Market Square in Sidney or at the Afton School Parking Lot for renters or people who live outside the villages. The yard sales will run from 9:00 am to 4:00 pm.

On Friday July 7th at the Afton Fairgrounds, there will be a tribute to local 1st responders for their contributions to their communities, Terry Potter of Millennia Entertainment explains:

(Terry Potter 4-28-23)

Potter said that tickets are only $10 per person, 12 & under will get in free, the tickets can be purchased at BrownPaperTickets.com.

The Chenango County Community Baby Shower will be held later today at the Norwich YMCA as part of the Y's Family Healthy Kids Day. The event will be held from 6:30 to 8:30 for new or expecting parents, with a variety of agencies & vendors to answer their questions, More information is available at 772-0517.

The Pink Floyd Tribute Band "Dark Sarcasm" will appear at the Foothills Performing Arts Center Saturday night, spokesman Geoff Doyle explains:

(Geoff Doyle 4-28-23)

Doyle said that tickets are available online at foothillspac.org, more information is available at (607) 431-2080.

4 Towns Forward will be holding their 2nd annual Community Yard Sales, but due to the predicted poor weather condition this Saturday, the event will be moved to the following Saturday May 6th, according to 4Towns Forward President Teri Schunk:

(Teri Schunk 4-28-23)

Schunk said that they are expecting an even bigger number of Participants this year in Afton, Bainbridge, Sidney & Unadilla. More information is available at the 4Towns Forward Facebook page.

Sidney’s Annual Arbor Day Celebration will be held tomorrow morning at 10:00 AM at Keith Clark Park, spokesperson Lorrie Roach explains;

(Lorrie Roach 4-27-23)

Roach said that a Japanese Red Maple tree will be planted in recognition of Mary Jane Plummer contributions to the community. Sidney has also been designated as a "Tree City USA" community for the 27th year.

Today, the Governor's Office sent state agencies to Assist Local governments IN Sullivan County following Saturday's Tornado in Callicoon Center and Roscoe. Affected residents can call the Disaster Hotline at 800- 339-1759 For Insurance-Related Questions. The State Department of Agriculture and Markets Encourages Affected Farms to Contact U.S. Department of Agriculture's Farm Service Agency to Report Damage. The National Weather Service in Binghamton determined the tornado was an EF2, with maximum winds of 115 mph. The tornado traveled 10 miles with a maximum width of 300 yards.

Fresh off of the 1st anniversary of the new Emergency Room & Walk In Center at Chenango Memorial Hospital, came word that the Hospital would get 20 Million Dollars for future projects that had been planning, according to Melissa Stagnaro, who is the Executive Director of the Chenango Memorial Hospital Foundation:

(Melissa Stagnaro 2-27-23)

Stagnaro said that they will not have to kick off another fundraising campaign for the 2nd Phase of their projects, with the receiving of this Grant money at this time. Phase 2 is expected to take about 5 years to complete.

Bainbridge Firefighters responded to a fire at 9 East Main Street Sunday morning. Occupants escaped without injuries, Fire fighters from Sidney, Afton, Masonville, Unadilla, Guilford, & Mt Upton also responded, Bainbridge Fire Fighters have returned for rekindles yesterday & again this morning, the fire is believed to have started in a garage and spread to the nearby residence.

The Department of Agriculture and Markets has been awarded over $3.8 million from the USDA Food and Nutrition Service to help New York seniors better access locally grown food. The funding comes from the American Rescue Plan Act, to modernize and expand the Senior Farmers' Market Nutrition Program at farmers' markets, roadside stands, and community supported agriculture programs, more information is available at agriculture.ny.gov/farmersmarkets.

At least 3 people were killed in a crash in Newark Valley This Morning. The Tioga County Sheriff’s Office reported that a vehicle traveling along Route 38 struck several pedestrians, at least 1 person was taken by a medial; helicopter to an unidentified trauma center, The Sheriff’s Office will release more information following family notification.

Bassett Healthcare Network will continue to require masks for all people in patient care and public areas of their buildings, including in hospitals, clinics, long-term care and rehabilitation facilities, and school-based health centers. Bassett Officials said that COVID-19 and influenza community transmission rates in Central New York remain high or substantial & the State Department of Health's latest safety guidance continues to affirm the importance of masking as a key infection prevention tool. Bassett's experts in Infection Prevention and other disciplines will continue to monitor community transmission levels and proceed forward with safety measures that are aligned with CDC guidance and in the best interest of our patients and communities.

Truth Pharm will be holding a free Narcan training at the Afton Free Library, at 105 Main Street in Afton, at 10:00 AM today The training is open to the Chenango County and surrounding communities, and will teach participants the science of substance abuse and addiction, as well as how to recognize an overdose, and how to respond to an overdose using Narcan.

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

A.M. NEWS THURSDAY 2-2-23

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

An American Red Cross Blood Drive is being held in Delhi today. The Drive will be held at the Farrell Student & Community Center at 2 Main Street in Delhi from 10:30 AM to 4:30 PM, appointments can be made by calling 1-800 RED CROSS, going online to redcrossblood.org or by using the Red Cross Blood Donor App.

Delaware County Sheriff’s Deputies observed a vehicle traveling on State Highway 206 in the Town of Walton Saturday Night, the vehicle had failed to maintain operation within its designated lane of travel, by crossing over the center roadway markings multiple times. Deputies identified the driver of the vehicle as 22-year-old Paul Akinware of New York, A check of Akinware’s driver’s license revealed that his driving privileges were suspended in the State of New York. Deputies subsequently arrested Akinware For Aggravated Unlicensed Operation of a Motor Vehicle, Failing to Turn in License to DMV, Unlicensed Operator, Moving from lane unsafely and No/Inadequate Lights, Akinware was released and is scheduled to appear in the Town of Walton Court at a later date.

State Comptroller Tom DiNapoli oversees more than 46 million unclaimed funds accounts valued at $17.5 billion. In February, staff from the Comptroller’s office will attend community events to help residents search for lost and forgotten money that is owed to them, New Yorkers can also check at ouf.osc.state.ny.us or by calling 1-800-221-9311.

A.M. NEWS Wednesday 2-1-23

Governor Kathy Hochul will present the Executive Budget Proposal at the Capitol at 12:00 Noon today. The budget will be turned over to the legislature for consideration ,they have until April 1st to get it passed.

Deposit Fire Department responded on Saturday to a fatal fire on Lumber Road in the town of Deposit. The fire started around 4 pm. and the house was deemed a total loss, the name of the victim has not been released pending family notification. The cause of the fire is still under investigation. Firefighters from Afton, Hancock, Harpursville, Masonville, and West Windsor fire departments responded.

P.M. NEWS TUESDAY 12-20-22

Unadilla Fire Department responded Monday Night at about 10:45 PM to a reported structure fire in the area of Buckhorn Lake Road and State Highway 7. Responding Firefighters discovered a working fire on the 2nd floor rear of the residence. Unadilla crews along with Wells Bridge crews were able to gain entry and knock the fire down. No injuries were reported, other Fire Departments assisting included Franklin, Sidney Sidney Center & Otego, the cause of the fire is under investigation.

The Afton Sertoma will be having their Christmas event later today, spokesperson Judy Hinman explains:

(Judy Hinman 12-20-22)

Money raised by the event will go for future Sertoma projects in the Community, more information is available at the Afton Sertoma Facebook page.

The Afton Central School Drama Club will present the "Wizard of Oz" tonight & Saturday Night at 7:00 PM at the Afton Central School Auditorium, in case of Inclement weather & school being closed on Friday, the Friday night performance will be held at 3:00 PM Saturday.

The Sidney Community Cultural Center will have an open Mic Night tonight at 8:00 PM, all are welcome to come & participate.

The Gateway Alliance Church on Circle Drive in Sidney will hold a free Christmas Community Dinner on Sunday from 12:00 Noon until 2:00 PM, all are invited to attend.

A.M. NEWS FRIDAY 12-16-22

Sidney Police arrested 36 year old Brittany Marino of Gloversville on an arrest warrant Monday. This arrest stems from a 2021 joint investigation, between the Sidney Police Department and the Department of Homeland Security, into the possession of firearms by a person who is prohibited from possessing firearms. Marino is accused of purchasing several firearms when she lived in Sidney, & then giving them to a person who is prohibited from possessing them. Marino was charged with One count of Criminal sale of a firearm in the first degree: ten or more firearms, she was arraigned in Village of Sidney Court where she was released on her own recognizance to appear back in court at a later date.

ABC Center for the Performing Arts will have their annual ABC Family Christmas on Saturday, ABC Owner Amy Burns-Cuozzo said that the show will be dedicated to her mother Nancy Sue Burns, who passed away December 8th:

(Amy Cuozzo 12-16-22)

The ABC Family Christmas Party will be at the Bainbridge Guilford High School Saturday at 2:00 PM,

The Hope Church of Afton will hold a free giveaway Saturday from 9:00 AM to 12:00 Noon, spokesperson Maryann Palmetier explains:

(Maryann Palmetier 12-16-22)

Palmetier said that donations are still being accepted, more information is available by calling 607-226-0791

Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer announced Wednesday the Center for Medicare and Medicaid Services has reversed its eligibility criteria for Critical Access Hospital status. The program allows rural healthcare providers to receive federal reimbursements to help ensure they are able to service patients. The rule reversal is expected to go into effect January 1st.

4 Towns Forward communities will be participating in Small Business Saturday events tomorrow, spokesperson Teri Schunk told WCDO News about the Sidney, Bainbridge & Afton events:

(Teri Schunk 11-25-22)

Unadilla will hold their Community Christmas celebration on Saturday with a wide range of activities, Spokesperson Linda Bickos explains:

(Linda Bickos 11-25-22)

More information is available at the 4 Towns forward Facebook page.

New Yorkers enrolled in the SNAP will receive the maximum allowable level of food benefits for October. All households participating in SNAP — including those already at the maximum level of benefits — will receive a supplemental allotment this month, resulting in a roughly $234 million infusion of federal funding into the State economy.

A.M. NEWS FRIDAY 10-21-22

State Police arrested 66 year old Raymond Sidlauskas of Afton for 2nd degree Arson, for intentionally setting a trash can on fire and caused tens thousands of dollars of damage to a Bassett Hospital room and medical equipment. Several rooms were evacuated due to the fire and over a dozen patients, including nurses and a security guard were treated for smoke inhalation. The fire was extinguished by employees at the hospital. Sidlauskas was arrested and was transported to the Otsego County Jail for Centralized Arraignment.

The Community Cultural Center of Sidney will have an Open Mike Night tonight at 8:00 PM, followed by the next Comedy Night this Saturday Night, Theater Manager Dennis Walrath explains:

(Dennis Walrath 10-21-22)

Tickets for Comedy Night are available at cccsidneyart.booktix.com or at the door before the show.

P.M. NEWS TUESDAY 9-6-22

The Village of Sidney will be seeking community input with their Resilient Sidney program, next week, Sidney Village Mayor Andy Matviak commented:

(Andy Matviak 9-6-22)

The Community meeting will be held on Wednesday September 14th from 6:30 to 8:00 PM at the Community Cultural Center at 1 Bridge Street, more information about the program is available at resilient-sidney.com/nyforward.

State Police were dispatched Saturday to assist Cherry Valley Fire with a hiker who had fallen from a waterfall down about 150-feet into a gorge. 1st responders hiked about a mile through a wooded area to locate the 32-year-old woman from Troy, she was pulled to safety and was airlifted to Albany Medical Center, where she was treated & released.

Broome County Sheriff’s Deputy responded to a 2-car accident on I-86 in the Town of Windsor. During the investigation, 39 year old Michael Morgan of Queens, failed a field sobriety test & was charged with operating a motor vehicle while impaired by drugs. Morgan was processed and released on tickets returnable to the Town of Windsor Court.

A.M. NEWS TUESDAY 9-6-22

Firefighters from Bainbridge, Guilford, Mount Upton, Masonville, Coventry, Franklin, Trout Creek, Afton and Sidney all responded to a structure fire at the Auto Plus Store at 4 Front Street Monday Night at about 9:00 PM. Investigators are trying to determine how the fire started, the store was closed when the fire broke out, no injuries among fire fighters were reported.

P.M. NEWS WEDNESDAY 8-24-22

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.

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).

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.

Otsego County Health Department reported today that that county is now at a MEDIUM COVID-19 Community Level for transmission. The County reported 26 New cases today with 3 hospitalizations and a 10.0% 7 day positivity rate. More information is available at otsegocounty.com.

Volunteer fire departments across New York will open their doors this weekend as part of the 13th annual RecruitNY weekend, to help increase membership in local volunteer fire departments. Tom Vail of the Afton Fire Department comments:

(Tom Vail 4-22-22)

The Unadilla Fire Department will hold their Open House on both days this weekend, according to 1st Assistant Fire Chief Jeremy Johnson:

(Jeremy Johnson 4-22-22)

The Bainbridge Fire Department will be holding an Open House Saturday from 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM, Bainbridge EMT Roger Barnhart comments:

(Roger Barnhart 4-22-22)

More information about what fire departments are participating on April 23rd can go to Recruitny.org, or go to their fire department’s website.

The Sidney Community Cultural Center will have another Comedy Night Saturday night in Downtown Sidney, Spokesperson Teri Schunk explains:

(Teri Schunk 4-22-22)

Schunk said that the Comedy Nights at the Community Cultural center will begin again in the fall.

Today through April 30th Bassett Healthcare Network is holding its annual Drug Take Back Week, where people can bring any unneeded, unwanted and expired medications for safe disposal. Bassett has special collection kiosks at the Outpatient Pharmacies in Cooperstown, the FoxCare Center in Oneonta & at O’Connor Hospital in Delhi as well as the AO Fox Hospital lobby, AO Fox Tri-Town Hospital lobby in Sidney.