WCDO Radio News

Governor Kathy Hochul today announced Empire AI campus partnerships between SUNY’s university centers, university colleges, technology colleges, and community colleges to advance artificial intelligence research and education for the public good. The State University of New York at Albany is partnering with SUNY Oneonta, SUNY Cobleskill Ag & Tech, and Hudson Valley Community College on 1 project, and The State University of New York at Binghamton is partnering with SUNY Cortland, SUNY Delhi, SUNY New Paltz, SUNY Oneonta, Broome Community College, and Tompkins Cortland Community College om\n another project.

A.M. NEWS MONDAY 2-2-26

Delaware County Sheriff’s Deputies arrested 30-year-old Daniel Roe of Davenport, who is accused of subjecting a juvenile to sexual contact in May 2024. Roe was also alleged to have subjected another juvenile to inappropriate sexual conversations during the same time frame. Investigators arrested Roe on 2 counts of Endangering the Welfare of a Child, 1 count of Forcible Touching, 1 count of Sexual Abuse, Roe was arraigned & Orders of Protection were issued for the victims. Roe was later released on his own recognizance and was directed to appear at the Town of Davenport Court at a later date to answer the charges.

P.M. NEWS THURSDAY 9-25-25

The Town of Guilford is hosting a fall Community Clean Out Event this Friday and Saturday, at the Guilford Town Highway Garage, 223 Marble Road, Guilford Town Supervisor Sue McIntyre explains:

(Sue McIntyre 9-25-25)

For assistance, contact the Guilford Trash Troopers ON FACEBOOK, more information is available by calling the Guilford Town Hall at 607-895-9966.

The Eastern Broome Senior Center in Harpursville will hold their annual "Fun Fest & Open House" Friday from 9:00 AM to 6:30 PM. The event is open to the public & will feature raffles, door prizes, a bake sale, ice cream & entertainment, more information is available at 607-693-2069.

A.M. NEWS Thursday 9-25-25

Hospice & Palliative Care of Chenango County will hold their annual "Celebrity Dinner" tonight at the Canasawacta County Club, spokesperson Sarah Green explains:

(Sara Green 9-25-25)

The event begins at 6:00 PM tonight, more information about Hospice is available at chenangohospice.org.

2 more American Red Cross Blood Drives will be held today, one in Garrattsville from 1:00 to 5:30 PM, at the New Lisbon Town Hall, 908 County Road 16, and another will be in ONEONTA from 12:00 to 5:00 PM at the State University of Oneonta, Hunt College Union, to make an appointment, visit RedCrossBlood.org, call 1-800-RED CROSS or use the Red Cross Blood Donor App.

44 year old Jerry Green of Binghamton, pleaded guilty to 2nd degree Assault in Broome County Court during the second day of his jury trial. Green admitted to assaulting another man with a metal pipe during a violent incident on September 27, 2024, at a residence located at 38 Pine Street, in the City of Binghamton. Green will be sentenced on September 12, 2025, before the Honorable Carol A. Cocchiola, and is expected to receive six years in New York State Prison, followed by five years of postrelease supervision.

Broome County District Attorney F. Paul Battisti announced the allocation of $52,500 in funding to support enhanced summer traffic safety & community policing patrols throughout the County. The fund from the DA’s Traffic Diversion Program, will be distributed to the Binghamton, Endicott, Johnson City & Vestal Police Departments and the Broome County Sheriff Office.

P.M. NEWS MONDAY 1-13-25

A Broome County Jury found 51 year old Antoine Loup of Endicott, guilty Friday for 2nd degree Murder and Tampering with Physical Evidence. On July 8, 2023, Loup went to to 4 Filmore Avenue in Endicott where the victim, Aaron LeGare, and others were playing cards, Loup’s asked LeGare to approach his vehicle, an argument ensued, Loup shot LeGare in the chest & fled the scene, and hid the murder weapon in his attic. Loup faces up to 25 years to life in state prison, when sentenced at a later date.

The Chenango County Historical Society is accepting applications for the Elinor Robb Troicke Memorial Scholarship, named after a local woman who was involved in a number of organizations, including the the Historical Society, Executive Director Jessica Moquin explains:

(Jessica Moquin 1-13-25)

the Scholarship will be awarded to a Chenango County High School Senior, who must be enrolling in a two- or four-year college the semester following high school graduation, application materials and information is available at chenangohistorical.org.

Governor Kathy Hochul announced an initiative to ensure every one of New York’s over 2.7 million students can receive breakfast and lunch for free at school. The State 2025 Budget included $180 million to help incentivize eligible schools to participate in the federal Community Eligibility Provision, allowing all students in participating schools to eat breakfast and lunch at no charge regardless of their families’ income. This new State of the State initiative will cover the cost of free lunch and breakfast for every student, adding meals for an additional 300,000 additional students.

P.M. NEWS TUESDAY 9-17-24

The Broome County Sheriff's Office announced that a fugitive wanted for murder in Georgia was arrested Monday by their Warrants Division. Last week, the Sheriff’s Office received information that 21 year old Dawensley Astrel of Binghamton had an active arrest warrant out of the state of Georgia for Murder, he was enrolled as a student at Broome Community College. The Sheriff's Office coordinated with SUNY Broome Campus Safety to take Astrel into custody without incident, he will be extradited back to Georgia to face murder charges.

Hartwick College in Oneonta launched their "The Life Balance College" concept starting this semester, that places student success at the forefront. Hartwick College President Jim Mullen explains:

(Jim Mullen 9-17-24)

More information about Hartwick College & their new approach can be found at hartwick.edu.

A.M. NEWS TUESDAY 9-17-24

Delaware County Sheriff's Office arrested 43 year old Jonathan Hynes of Stamford on an Arrest Warrant for 2nd Degree Assault following an investigation by the Otsego County Sheriff's Office for an incident that occurred in Worcester. On September 5th, Otsego County Sheriff’s Deputies contacted and requested assistance from the Delaware County Sheriff's Office in locating a vehicle and driver which were involved in a hit and run motor vehicle accident and an assault, Delaware County Deputies were able to locate the vehicle and Hynes, he was arrested & was turned over to the Otsego County Sheriff''s Office.

The Norwich Police Department reminds area residents that they will be hosting a Citizens Police Academy in October. The 6-week course will be two hours, one night of the week, Anyone interested in attending this course should email info@norwichpd.org. Class size will be limited to fifteen community members.

Broome County Sheriff Road Patrol deputies responded to a motor vehicle accident involving 2 vehicles Early Sunday morning on Morgan Road in the Town of Binghamton. Broome County Sheriff Fred Akshar identified the deceased as 29 year old Charles Burrell of Conklin, who was ejected from 1 of the vehicles, he said that the operators of the 2 vehicles were engaged in a continuing dispute over women & narcotics, they engaged in a road rage incident that ended with the fatality. 20 year old Cody Diffendorf of Kirkwood & 26 year old James MacDowall of Binghamton were each charged with 2nd degree manslaughter, both are in the custody of the Broome County Correctional facility pending future court action.

The Delaware County Planning Board announced that they plan to develop a Strategic Comprehensive Plan, to guide future growth, development, and preservation in the County. Fisher Associates will lead the planning process and public engagement efforts. Public Input Sessions will be today from 6:00 PM -8:00 PM at the Hobart Community Center & Tuesday, September 17 from 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM at the Walton Fire Hall, on West Street. The input gathered from the public survey and during these initial input sessions will be reviewed by Delaware County Planning and Fisher Associates, followed by additional opportunities for public review and comment.

Red Cross Blood Drives are continuing locally, with one in Sidney today from 1 pm. - 6 pm., at the American Legion Post at 22 Union Street, another will be in Oneonta from 12 pm. - 5 pm., at the SUNY Hunt College Union, appointments can be made at RedCrossBlood.org, call 1-800-RED CROSS or use the Red Cross Blood Donor App.

Broadway In Binghamton announced that single tickets for the Broadway smash hit musical AIN'T TOO PROUD – THE LIFE AND TIMES OF THE TEMPTATIONS, will go on sale today at 10am. Tickets will be available at BroadwayInBinghamton.com, Ticketmaster.com, and in person at the Arena Box Office. AIN'T TOO PROUD will play at the Broome County Forum Theatre October 22 & 23 AT 7:30PM.

Hartwick College in Oneonta launched their Together, We Soar campaign last November, with the goal of raising $50 Million dollars for a variety of reason, James Kellerhouse, Vice President for Institutional Advancement & External Relations, told WCDO News about their efforts:

(James Kellerhouse 4-11-24)

Kellerhouse said that they have already raised about $30 million dollars, and that enrollments increased this year by about 10%, with an even higher percentage of new students from the local counties, more information is available at hartwick.edu/giving/together-we-soar.

The Binghamton Police Department arrested a 17-year-old from Johnson City for leaving the scene of a pedestrian hit-and-run Tuesday afternoon. Binghamton Police responded at Court and Water streets for a report of a person who was crossing the road being struck by a vehicle, the victim was a 45 year old man from Binghamton, He was transported to an area hospital w& was in critical condition. Detectives found the suspect and their vehicle later, he was arrested & was released on an appearance ticket.

A.M. NEWS Thursday 4-11-24

40 year old Jesse Barnum of Endicott was arrested in Pennsylvania on multiple felony charges for failing to register under the Sex Offender Registration Act. Barnum was found hiding under a blanket in the rear of a van, he was arrested and extradited to appear in Broome County and Town of Union courts. On Friday, April 1, 2024, members of the Broome County Sheriff’s Warrants Division and the United States Marshals Regional Fugitive Task Force traveled to Scranton area, Barnum was wanted 2 separate counts of Failure to Register Under the Sex Offender Registration Act, plus Bail Jumping.

The Sidney Chamber of Commerce will have their next Buisness After Hours event at the Community Cultural Center today, Sidney Chamber President Teri Schunk explains:

(Teri Schunk 4-11-24)

The next Community Cultural Center will have their next Comedy night Friday night with Angela Cobb & Headline Vinnie Mark.

The Deadline to sign up to sell your wares & get on the 4 Towns Forward Maps for their April 27th event is approaching, Teri Schunk of 4 Towns Forward explains:

(Teri Schunk 4-9-24)

The 4 Towns Forward Yard Sale event will be on Saturday April 27th, also the Unadilla & Bainbridge Fire Departments will have their community Open House & Recruitment event as well.

State Attorney General Letitia James announced that 2 conservative political operatives; Jacob Wohl and Jack Burkman, will have to pay $1.25 million under a settlement to New York. Wohl & Burkman orchestrated a robocall campaign to dissuade about 85,000 Black people from voting in the 2020 election, in Ohio, Michigan, New York, Pennsylvania and Illinois. The robocall told the victims that they could be subjected to arrest, debt collection and forced vaccination if they voted by mail. Wohl and Burkman pleaded guilty to felony telecommunications fraud in Ohio, they were sued in New York by The National Coalition on Black Civil Participation, they also recruited a college student to falsely claim he was raped by then-Democratic presidential candidate Pete Buttigieg.

A.M. NEWS TUESDAY 4-9-24

Broome County District Attorney's office announced that 39 year old Majid Richardson of Binghamton was found guilty of 4 counts of Criminal Contempt, plus 3rd degree Robbery and 2 counts of Grand Larceny by a Jury in Broome County Court. On June 1, 2023, Richardson forcibly stole from a victim and then attempted to contact that victim multiple times from Broome County Jail after an order of protection was issued. Richardson is due back in court for sentencing on July 3, 2024, where he will be sentenced to State Prison.

The State Department of Agriculture & markets announced that 22 organizations will receive grants for food resiliency projects. The Unadilla Community Farm Education Center will receive over $44,000 dollars in grant money.

The Broome County Sheriff’s Office is currently looking for Veronica Mitchell on an outstanding warrant for Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance, Mitchell is a white female, 5'2" 100 Pounds with brown hair & eyes, anyone with information should go to gobroomecounty.com/sheriff/warrants or call (607) 778-1196.

The Vestal Police Department arrested 43 year old Lori Littler of Vestal on a variety of drug charges. Members of the police department executed a search warrant at Littler’s residence, they seized methamphetamine, fentanyl, cocaine, suboxone, plus Packaging materials & Scales, Littler was remanded to the Broome County Jail to await arraignment.

A.M. NEWS WEDNESDAY 2-28-24

Otsego County Sheriff's Office arrested 23 year old Lucian Decker of Pittsfield, for 2nd degree Assault with a weapon, Endangering the Welfare of a Child, plus he was wanted on 2 warrants. Decker was arrested following an investigation into an assault in the Town of Morris on April 7 2022, where he allegedly struck the victim in the head with a lead pipe after an argument, Decker fled the scene & left the state, earlier this month, deputies learned that Decker was back in the area, and was involved in another incident that is still under investigation. Decker was located in the Town of Pittsfield and was taken into custody without incident, he was arraigned & was remanded to the Otsego County Jail on $3,000 cash bail/$30,000 secured bond.

The Broome County Sheriff's Office is currently investigating a one-person motorcycle accident with injuries on Interstate Route 81 South between Exits 1 and 2 in the Town of Kirkwood Tuesday. The initial investigation revealed that the motorcyclist was the only individual involved and speed was a factor in the crash. The motorcyclist was transported to Wilson Hospital with serious injuries.

The Broome County Sheriff’s Office and SUNY Broome have partnered on a program to begin introducing community college “life skills” curriculum to incarcerated men and women at the Broome County Correctional Facility. The pilot program consists of five, 1-hour weekly classes taking place over five weeks, offered in both a male and a female housing pod. Undersheriff Sam Davis is the instructor for each class, he previously served as the Director of Training for the Broome County Sheriff’s Office and taught several criminal justice courses at SUNY Broome over the past 8 years.

ACHIEVE in Norwich gave a tour of their new facility at East Main Street in Norwich yesterday, the renovated facility will offer a 200 capacity multi-purpose meeting space, a cafe & kitchen for job skills training, a nursing station, Hoyer Lift Systems and a community center. Achieve is a non-profit organization that provIdes support & services to more than 2200 individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities in Broome, Chenango & Tioga Counties, more information is available at achieveny.org.

Governor Kathy Hochul today announced that the application for the Excelsior Scholarship for new applicants for the Spring 2024 term is now open. Students from households with federal adjusted gross incomes up to $125,000 are eligible, Students must Plan to attend a SUNY or CUNY two- or four-year college; Complete 30 credits per year towards their program of study and must be on track to graduate with an associate degree in two years or a bachelor's degree in four years. more information is available at webapps.hesc.ny.gov, Applications will be accepted through February 2, 2024.

A.M. NEWS TUESDAY 12-19-23

Otsego County Officials announced that several roads are closed due to flooding conditions, including County Highway 48 between Chamberlain Hill and Downey Road Spur in Otego, County Highway 4 between Mill Street and Hilton Street in the Town of Butternuts, Miller Road in Pittsfield, Bemis Road from State Highway 51 to Pegg Road in Morris. In Delaware County, State Route 30 in Roxbury has flooding issues, officals in all around counties advise motorists to turn around if they find flooded roads & report them to authorites as soon as possible. Motorists can check 511ny.org for road closures.

Delaware County Sheriff's Office arrested 31 year old Cachet Fernandez of Sidney on a sealed indictment arrest warrant issued out of the Delaware County Court. On Friday Morning, Broome County Sheriff’s Deputies, located and identified Fernandez, he was turned over to the custody of Delaware County Sheriff’s Deputies. The Delaware County Court issued a sealed indictment arrest warrant, stemming from Fernandez allegedly not reporting his new residence as a registered Sex Offender to the proper authorities upon moving. Fernandez was remanded to the Delaware County Jail to await arraignment in Delaware County Court at a later date.

The Broome County Sheriff’s Office is currently looking for Pamela Fox on an outstanding warrant for a Violation of Probation for Aggravated Unlicensed Operation of a motor vehicle. Fox is described as a white female, 5' 2" tall about 130 pounds with Blond hair & Blue eyes, Anyone with information on the location of Fox is asked to contact the Broome County Sheriff’s Office at gobroomecounty.com/sheriff/warrants or by calling the Broome County Sheriff’s Office tip line at (607) 778-1196.

The State Comptroller's Office announced that State tax receipts totaled $51.5 billion through the 1st 6 months of State Fiscal Year 23-24, $1.7 billion higher than estimates released in the Division of the Budget in July. However, tax receipts were $6.9 billion lower than the first half the previous year according to the monthly State Cash Report released today. The new report reflected a higher than anticipated tax collections and lower than anticipated spending. The full report can be found online at osc.state.ny.us.

A.M. NEWS Wednesday 10-18-23

The Delaware County Chamber of Commerce will hold their 2023 Business Awards celebration at Bluestone Restaurant in Delhi today. Delaware county Chamber President Ray Pucci told WCDO News that they have many "Rising Star" award recipients this year, for businesses that have been operating for 1 to 5 years:

(Ray Pucci 10-18-23)

Pucci said that UHS Delaware Valley Hospital & Decker Advertising of Delhi will share the Business of the Year honors, their Community Connector Award will go to the Delaware County Industrial Development Agency. The celebration coincides with National Chamber of Commerce Day.

2 more American Red Cross Blood Drives will be held today, 1 in Oneonta from 12 p.m. - 5 p.m., at SUNY Oneonta, Hunt College Union, and another will be held in Walton from 12:30 p.m. - 5:30 p.m., at the Walton First Baptist Church, 55 Townsend Street, appointments can be made with the Red Cross Blood Donor App, visiting RedCrossBlood.org or calling 1-800-RED CROSS

P.M. NEWS FRIDAY 10-13-23

Broome County Sheriff’s Deputies arrested 35 year old Devyn Wilcox of Harpursville on 27 counts of Endangering the Welfare of a Child & 1 count of disorderly conduct on Thursday. Deputies responded Thursday afternoon to the Harpursville School District Bus, Wilcox is accused of entering the stopped bus and began yelling, screaming, swearing and threatening juveniles, according to witnesses & video. There were 30 students from elementary school to high school ages on the bus. Wilcox was taken into custody without incident at his residence, he was processed at the Broome County Sheriff’s Correctional Facility and released on appearance tickets for the Town of Colesville Court at a later date. The investigation is continuing.

The Community Cultural Center in Sidney will be holding an artistic event tonight, Saturday Night & Sunday Afternoon, with local artist Branden Hurd, with a Jazz concert planned on Sunday as well, spokesperson Amy Williams explains:

(Amy Williams 10-13-23)

Tickets are available at Roasted Coffee House & Barking Cat Boutique, more information is available at the Community Cultural Center Facebook page.

The Norwich Rotary Club will have their 38th annual AMBA Program Saturday from 6:30 TO 10:00 AM at the Norwich YMCA Community Room. Low cost blood screenings are available for those who register at 1-800 234-8888 & have a prescription from their health care provider.

A Red Cross Blood Drive will be held at Hartwick College today from 12:00 Noon until 5:00 PM, appointments can be made with the Red Cross Blood donor app, at redcrossblood.org or by calling 1-800 RED CROSS.

P.M. NEWS THURSDAY 9-14-23

The Sidney Central School District is continuing with the process of changing the school nickname & mascot, 2 meeting have been set up on September 27th, Sidney Superintendent Eben Bullock explains:

(Eben Bullock 9-14-23)

The district is now seeking members for the community stakeholder group, which will meet 3 times, on September 27, October 18, and November 1. Community members who are interested should RSVP to Nancy Edwards at nedwards@sidneycsd.org, or call 607-561-7700, extension 3.

Bassett Healthcare Network, Hartwick College, and SUNY Oneonta gathered on September 13 to inaugurate a groundbreaking workforce development partnership aimed at retaining new graduates in the region and addressing critical workforce shortages across Bassett’s network. Bassett President & CEO Dr. Tommy Ibrahim comments at a Fox Hospital Press Conference Wednesday:

(Dr. Tommy Ibrahim 9-14-23)

Dr. Ibrahim said that Bassett CARES is open to graduates from all disciplines, participants may earn up to $25,000 in loan repayment stipends. SUNY Oneonta and Hartwick College students may also get free or subsidized on-campus housing in the summer for matriculated students who are working for Bassett Healthcare Network during the summer months. SUNY Oneonta also plans to provide bridge housing for recent graduates for the summer directly following their graduation to ease the transition to professional life at Bassett.

The State Department of Labor announced that the number of private sector jobs in New York State increased over the month by 4,900, to 8,252,700 in August. The State's seasonally adjusted unemployment rate held constant at 3.9% in August, New York's labor force participation rate increased to 61.5% in August, highest level since 2013.

A.M. NEWS THURSDAY 9-14-23

Broome County Sheriff’s Deputies responded Monday to a 911 call of a pedestrian-train accident in the Town of Union. The pedestrian, 33 year old Joey Rosa of Endwell was pronounced dead at the scene. Detectives found that Rosa had been known to frequent the area and was on the tracks as the train approached. The conductor of the train attempted to signal multiple times to get Rosa’s attention, but Rosa did not move off the tracks. The engineer was unable to stop the train, and at Rosa was struck and killed. Investigators have ruled the incident an accident.

P.M. NEWS FRIDAY 5-19-23

The Broome County Sheriff's Office arrested 22 year old Houston Alexander of Binghamton following a high speed pursuit Thursday night. A Deputy was conducting a routine speed enforcement on I-81 in the Town of Dickinson when he encountered a vehicle traveling at 90 miles per hour in a 55 miles per hour zone, after pursuits through several towns, Alexander's vehicle collided with a patrol vehicle, he fled on foot, which ended a few block later in Johnson City with a Taser deployment, and he was taken into custody. Alexander was charged with Unlawful Fleeing a Police Officer in a Motor Vehicle, Unauthorized Use of a Vehicle, Reckless Endangerment, Obstructing Government Administration & Resisting Arrest, Alexander was processed and issued appearance tickets for a future court date, The Sheriff’s Office was assisted by Johnson City Police and State Police. There were no injuries stemming from the incident.

SUNY Broome announced that just under 750 people graduated last night at the Visions Veterans Memorial Arena in downtown Binghamton. College Officials said that 65% of the graduates are female and 35% are male, the most popular major again this year was nursing.

The Mid-York Concert Band will present its annual Spring Concert on Sunday at 2:00 PM in the Norwich High School Auditorium, conductor Doug Ernst comments:

(Doug Ernst 5-19-23)

Ernst said that the ensemble is made possible with public funds from the Statewide Community Regrants Program, which is a program of the New York State Council on the Arts.

Hartwick College will celebrate Earth Day, Saturday with the world premiere of the film, The Search for Up, which was shot in Hartwick’s Observatory in early November 2022. In addition to the film screening at 6 pm. in Hartwick’s Yager Museum, the event will feature a 5 pm. opening of a showcase of creative projects by secondary students from local and regional schools. More information is available at sheehym@hartwick.edu.

Sidney & Walton Fire Departments are participating in the "Recruit New York" Event tomorrow. The statewide event runs from 10:00AM to 2:00 PM as fire departments around the state look to recruit more members. Participating Fire Departments can be found at recruitny.org/participants.

A.M. NEWS FRIDAY 4-21-23

Delaware County Sheriff's Office arrested 32-year-old John Durgala of Syracuse and 26 year old Prince Johnson of Binghamton. Deputies were dispatched Wednesday to Marvin Hollow Road and State Highway 10 in the Town of Walton for a suspicious vehicle complaint. Prince Johnson was the operator of the vehicle was found to have an active Violent Felony Warrant out of Broome County and he was arrested. John Durgala provided a false identity to Deputies, he was found to have an active Violent Felony Warrant out of Broome County Sheriff’s Office in relation to Johnson’s arrest warrant. Durgala was charged with false impersonation, Obstructing Governmental Administration, he was issued appearance tickets and was directed to appear in the Town of Walton Court at a later date to answer to the charges.

An anonymous tip from the community led to multiple drug smuggling charges at the Broome County Sheriff’s Correctional Facility this week. Investigators received information from anonymous community member that an 37 year old Luis Bigio of Endicott allegedly smuggling contraband into the Correctional Facility. Investigators searched Bigio’s cell & recovered 136 suboxone strips, Bigio was charged with 2 Counts of Promoting Prison Contraband, he was serving a Broome County Court sentence related to disobeying a court mandate. Bigio was processed at the Broome County Correctional Facility and will answer for his charges at the Town of Dickinson Court on a future date.

The City of Norwich Common Council voted recently to award the bid for the water main replacement project to Vacri Construction of Binghamton, City of Norwich Community Development Director Erik Scrivener said they must now go through the Federal application process with the EPA to get the grant money necessary for the project, with the hope of getting the project started as soon as possible.

(Eric Scrivener 4-18-23)

Scrivener said if the grant was delayed they have made arrangements to use a USDA loan, that would be paid back with the grant money if it delayed beyond the length to complete the project. The planned project area includes a new mains on South Broad Street, and East Main Street.

Broome County Sheriff's Office will hold the 1st of 4 Public Safety Town Halls this Thursday’s meeting at the Town of Chenango Town Hall from 6:00 to 7:30 PM. Sheriff Akshar, Undersheriff Davis and members of the Sheriff's Office team will be present to discuss issues, answer questions. The Town of Chenango Town Hall is located at 1529 State Route 12, Binghamton.

A.M. NEWS Tuesday 4-18-23

State Police, the FBI & local law enforcement agencies arrested 20 year old Peter Howard of Louisville Kentucky, who is a student at Hamilton College in Clinton, Howard is accused of posting a a false alert of a possible active shooter situation at the Hamilton Campus, on a social media site called Jodel. No active threat was found, students were told to shelter in place during the investigation, Howard was arrested on Sunday and charged with making a threat of mass harm.

Broome County District Attorney Mike Korchak announced that Philip Garcia of Endicott, pleaded guilty to felony Arson. Garcia admitted that on May 2, 2021, in the Village of Endicott, he intentionally damaged property by setting a fire on a stove inside a Hillside Court apartment and the interior of a motor vehicle, by lighting objects inside the car on fire, after a domestic dispute with a 31-year-old female in the Village. The fire in the apartment was put out by residents with minimal smoke damage. The Endicott Fire Department responded to the scene and quickly extinguished the car fire. The vehicle sustained interior damage. Garcia, who has a criminal history dating back to 1992, will be sentenced to 5 years in New York State prison followed by 2 1/2 years post release supervision on June 9, 2023.

A free virtual job fair will be held on Wednesday, April 12th, from 11:00am to 1:00pm. All businesses and job seekers from across a 6-county region are invited to attend: including from the local counties of Chenango, Delaware, and Otsego. More information is available at working-solutions.org.

The Town of Unadilla announced their Spring Clean up will be held this Friday starting at 6:30 Am until 2:00 PM. The town will accept, Appliances, Scrap Metal, Electronics, 4 tires per residence, more information is available at town of unadilla.org.

A.M. NEWS MONDAY 3-27-23

Governor Kathy Hochul today announced the nomination of Dr. James McDonald to serve as Commissioner of the New York State Department of Health. Dr. McDonald is originally from Cohoes and received his bachelor's degree from Siena College. He joined the New York State Department of Health in July of 2022, serving as medical director of the Department's Office of Public Health. He later was appointed Interim Director of the Center for Community Health and began serving as Acting Commissioner of Health on January 1 of this year.

Former Assistant to Former Broome County District Attorney James Worhach was sentenced to 2 to 4 years in prison. Worhach served under previous DA Steven Cornwell, In January, Worhach pleaded guilty to Grand Larceny after admitting he stole more than $1,000 from 2016-2019 from the Broome County government. Worhach was also ordered to pay $5,727.75 in restitution to Broome County plus a fine of $1,000.

Broome County Sheriff's Office welcomed 27 new Corrections Officers at a ceremony at SUNY Broome Community College, including 7 women. The 27 officers was the largest group of new Corrections Officers in the history of the Sheriff's Office, freshman Sheriff Fred Akshar stated that it was a priority to bolster the number of Corrections officers as soon as possible, when he took office in January.

Bassett Healthcare Network announced today that masks are no longer required for patients, visitors, or staff members across most areas of the health system. 1 exception is in Bassett’s skilled nursing facilities at A.O. Fox Nursing Home, Valley Residential Services, and Valley Health Services, where masks will still be required for all employees and visitors. Long-term care facilities continue to follow stricter guidelines from the Centers for Disease Control & Prevention (CDC) based on community transmission rates to protect residents.

A.M. NEWS MONDAY 3-20-23

The Otsego County Sheriff's Office arrested 48 year old Charles Bodie of Edmeston for 2nd degree Rape, Criminal Sex Act, Dissemination of Indecent Material to Minors, Obscenity, & Endangering the Welfare of a Child. Bodie is accused of engaging in sexual relationship with a minor for several months, allegedly sent indecent material to the minor while he was employed outside of the State, and then Homeland Security was requested to assist. Bodie was located and arrested & he was returned to New York, he was turned over to investigators and was being held at the Otsego County Correctional Facility to await arraignment. Additional charges are expected.

Governor Kathy Hochul appeared in Johnson City this morning, she outlined some of the executive Budget Proposal Items that are aimed at helping the Southern Tier:

(Governor Hochul 2-22-23)

Governor Hochul discussed $1.4 billion in School Aid for the Southern Tier, Over $151 million in DOT capital projects, $50 million for Binghamton University to continue establishing a hub for battery technology innovation, Over $23 million for local paving and pothole repairs, $963,000 for Broome Community College, $16 million for addiction services funding, the 227 Billion Dollar Budget proposal is being negotiated & is due on April 1st.

A.M. NEWS WEDNESDAY 2-22-23

The New York State Department of Health today issued the results of its latest annual chronic disease public opinion survey. According to the survey, 88% think heroin use is a serious public health problem, 90% site the use or misuse of prescription opioids, 92% said childhood obesity, 85% think tobacco use continues to be a major problem, 80% reported issues with health care access, 77% said alcohol consumption & 46% think marijuana are other serious health problems.

P.M. NEWS Thursday 1-12-23

The City of Norwich is receiving federal money for the upcoming water Main replacement project downtown, City of Norwich Community Development Director Eric Scrivener told WCDO News where the money is coming from for the $4 Million Dollar project:

(Eric Scrivener 1-12-23)

The planned project area includes 5,760 feet of piping on South Broad Street, from the Prentice and Broad Street intersection to the Mechanic and Broad Street intersection, and a 640-foot section of East Main Street between the Broad Street intersection and the railroad tracks, the water Main are about 140 years old.

A Red Cross Blood Drive at Hartwick College in Oneonta today. The Blood Drive runs from 12:00 Noon until 5:00 PM, Appointments are requested at 1-800 RED CROSS, with the Red Cross Blood Donor App, or at redcrossblood.org.

Village of Sidney announced that the water service disruption scheduled for Monday has been postponed until Tuesday, due to Mondays holiday. Starting around 9:00 AM Tuesday, water system customers north of the Susquehanna River along Route 8 and the surrounding areas will experience water service disruptions, until about 4:00 PM. This service disruption is associated with the Village of Sidney’s work to install new water mains under the Unadilla and Susquehanna Rivers.

A.M. NEWS THURSDAY 1-12-23

The Broome County Sheriff’s Office is currently looking for Kiana Montanez, on an outstanding warrant and asking the residents of Broome County for assistance. Montanez is wanted for Burglary, Bail Jumping, Resisting Arrest and Obstructing Governmental Justice. She is described as 5’5?, 140 pounds, anyone with information is asked to contact the Broome County Sheriff’s Office at gobroomecounty.com/sheriff/warrants or by calling the Broome County Sheriff’s Office tip line at (607) 778-1196.

The Delaware County Tourism Advisory Board is now accepting applications for funding under the 2023 Local Community Tourism Grant program. This program will provide funding assistance to eligible applicants for projects that seek to attract visitors to Delaware County and enhance the overall tourism industry. For a copy of the program guidelines and application, contact the Delaware County Department of Economic Development at 607-832-5123. Applications are due by February 28th.

4Towns Forward will hold their Community Yard Sales Saturday, spokesperson Teri Schunk told WCDO news where people will be set up:

(Teri Schunk 4-21-22)

The event runs from 9:00 am to 4:00 pm in Afton, Bainbridge, Sidney & Unadilla.

40 organizations in the region were awarded grants totaling $287,684 from the Community Foundation for South Central New York. Funded Organizations included museums, theater groups, libraries, human service agencies, animal welfare organizations, chambers of commerce, food banks, housing programs, and public safety agencies and other nonprofits, municipalities, and school districts. More information about the Foundation can be found on its website at www.donorswhocare.org.

A.M. NEWS THURSDAY 4-21-22

Attorney General Letitia James distributed the 1st round of payments from the opioid settlements to the Southern Tier. In 2022, the Southern Tier will receive a total of $4.8 million, from the $1.5 billion settlement Attorney General James secured with the manufacturers and distributors of opioids for prevention efforts. Later this year, the Southern Tier will receive additional payments from the settlements with Endo Health Solutions, Janssen Pharmaceuticals, and Allergan. Locally Broome County receives $1.6 Million dollars, Chenango County, $308,000, Delaware County: $327,000.

The Board of Trustees of Hartwick College announced today that they have selected Darren Reisberg, executive vice president and chief strategy officer at the Joyce Foundation, as the College’s 11th president, he will take office on August 1, replacing Dr. Margaret Drugovich, who announced her retirement earlier this after serving as Hartwick College President for 14 years.

NYSEG reports that thousands are still without power this morning across the region. Broome County had more than 15,000 customers without power, Chenango County over 9,600, Delaware County over 5300, Otsego County with more than 6300, earlier today.

P.M. NEWS FRIDAY 1-21-22

Broome County District Attorney Mike Korchak announced today that Larry Harris received a 79 years to Life sentence this morning in Broome County Court. Harris was found guilty of killing 11 year old Jerome Smith in 2019, raping an 11 year old female in 2013 and dealing narcotics.

State Police at Binghamton and multiple fire agencies responded to a house fire Thursday on Old State Road in the town of Kirkwood. Once the fire was extinguished by fire crews, Broome County Fire Investigators, State Fire Investigators, State Police BCI and State Police Forensic Identification Unit located 2 deceased individuals. The cause of the fire is under investigation.

Chobani announced an expansion of its Scholars Program, adding a pledge of $1 million for those who wish to pursue agriculture. Through its partnerships with Cornell University and the University of Idaho, the Chobani Scholars Program will offer eight $20,000 scholarships ($5,000 each year) over 5 years to historically underserved students interested in studying agriculture, dairy, food science, and/or food entrepreneurship. Chobani Scholars will have an opportunity to intern with Chobani during their college careers. More information is available at the Chobani website.

The Community Cultural Center at 1 Bridge Street in Sidney will be holding another Comedy Night, this Saturday night at 8:00 PM. Tickets are available by calling 607-604-4584.

A.M. NEWS FRIDAY 1-21-22

Endicott Police arrested 31 year old Dominique Wortham of Endicott for attempted Murder, following an investigation into shots being fired in front of 140 Washington Avenue on December 14th. One person was shot in the leg, during that incident, an arrest warrant was issued, Wortham was arrested Wednesday in Binghamton by members of the U.S. Marshals Service Fugitive Task Force, and he was processed and was transported to the Centralized Arraignment Facility at the Broome County Jail.

P.M. NEWS Tuesday 10-26-21

Governor Kathy Hochul announced that the State DOT & Emergency crews are gearing up to respond to any issues that pop up due to the nor'easter spinning across the state today & into tonight. Governor Hochul declared a State Disaster Emergency for several counties, including Broome, Chenango, Delaware, & Otsego Counties, locally; The National Weather service has Flood Watch's & Flood Warnings in effect throughout the state.

17 organizations were awarded grants totaling over $318,000 from the Community Foundation for South Central New York. The successful grant applications were approved through a competitive, volunteer panel and board review process, are for a variety of capital projects, operations, economic development, and programming. The Foundation received 70 applications this year requesting over 1.2 Million dollars. More information about the Foundation can be found on its website at donorswhocare.org.

24 year old Elijah Burnside of Binghamton pleaded guilty to 2nd degree manslaughter in Broome County Court Monday, Burnside admitted to driving at a high rate of speed in Binghamton November 21, 2019, & hitting a vehicle driven by 70 year old Ronald Phetphonsy of Binghamton, resulting in his death. Burnside faces sentencing at a later date.

A.M. NEWS TUESDAY 10-26-21

On Saturday, Sidney Police received a complaint of a robbery in progress at the Mirabito convenience store at 1 West Main Street, by a white female wearing a mask over the lower part of her face and a hooded sweatshirt. The employee handed $1,619 to the suspect who then fled the scene. No firearm or weapon was displayed during the incident. On Sunday, the suspect was taken into custody, 28 year old Alicia McAdams of Sidney was charged with 3rd degree Robbery & 4th degree Grand larceny, McAdams was arraigned in Village of Sidney Court, and she was released on her own recognizance to appear back in court at a later date.

Governor Kathy Hochul announced the grand opening of Binghamton University's Decker College of Nursing and Health Sciences in Johnson City, Monday. The State has invested a total of $287 million to complete the 13-acre Health Sciences Campus, which includes Decker College, More than 130 faculty and staff are employed, with more than 700 students.

P.M. NEWS WEDNESDAY 10-13-21

State Police arrested 20 year old Brandon Carlson of Endwell for Criminal Possession of Stolen Property, Criminal Mischief, Reckless Endangerment & 2nd degree Assault Monday.  Shortly before 3:00 p.m., a trooper spotted Carlson in a truck that had been involved in a hit and run in the village of Endicott.   The trooper attempted to stop the vehicle, but Carlson failed to comply.  A short distance later, Carlson crashed into another vehicle on Country Club Road in Endwell, he fled on foot and was ultimately taken into custody.  Carlson was transported to Wilson Hospital and was treated and released.  Carlson was processed then transported to Broome County Central Arraignment and Processing. The driver of the vehicle that was struck by Carlson on Country Club Road is identified as 90 year old Eileen Patch of Endwell, She was transported to Wilson Hospital and is being treated for injuries sustained in the crash.  The investigation is on-going by state Police & Endicott Police.

The Village of Sidney will hold a public meeting later this month, regarding the village's option to opt out of the state Marijuana legalization program, Mayor Andy Matviak told WCDO News that the village has options:

(Andy Matviak 10-13-21)

The Village of Sidney Board of Trustees will hold a Public Hearing on the Local Law #3 on October 25th at 7:00 PM at the Community Cultural Center at 1 Bridge Street.

The City of Oneonta held a ribbon cutting for a new fenced in Dog Park in Neahwa Park Tuesday.  The park is split into 2 areas, one for big dog & another for small dogs.

A.M. NEWS WEDNESDAY 10-13-21

New York Attorney General Letitia James will continue her 'HealNY' tour by visiting Binghamton and Ithaca today, and making two announcements regarding support to New York families and communities impacted by the opioid crisis.  James will first be at Binghamton General Hospital at 11:00 AM where she will be joined by Broome County Executive Jason Garnar & other local leaders.

Otsego County Department of Health reported 380 total COVID 19 cases reported in the month of August, with 52% were unvaccinated which includes those who had no or 1 vaccines in the 2 shot series, while 48% were fully vaccinated, 100% of hospitalizations are unvaccinated. 9% of the cases in August were in college students/employees; 10% of the cases were 0-11 years old, 27% were 12 to 24 years old, 46% of the cases were in the 25-55 age group & 17% were 56 & older.

State Senator Fred Akshar will join officials from Broome County and the Broome County Health Department to recognize Rebecca Kaufman as the 52nd Senate District's 2021 Woman of Distinction on Wednesday at 10:30 AM at the Broome County Health Department in Binghamton. Kaufman earned this recognition through her work as Director of Public Health for Broome County; Senator Akshar said that she led the Broome community through the pandemic:

(State Senator Fred Akshar 9-7-21)

Akshar said that in addition to her work as the Director of Public Health, she also serves as the Broome Opioid Awareness Council Coordinator to help treat & prevent Substance Abuse disorder & addiction in Broome County.

The Broome County Sheriff's Office is investigating a rollover crash This Morning on State Route 17 in Windsor.  The accident occurred around 3:00 this morning, Deputies found the vehicle, but not the driver, the investigation is continuing.

Delaware County Sheriff’s Deputies assisted State Parole Officers recently with locating and arresting 40 year-old William McLean of Hobart on a Parole warrant issued by the New York State Department of Corrections and Community Supervision.  McLean was found in possession of 6 different controlled substances at the time of his arrest and was charged with 6 counts of criminal possession of a controlled substance, he was remanded to the Delaware County Correctional Facility to be held as a parole violator pending a future parole revocation hearing.   McLean was issued an appearance ticket to Town of Stamford Court on a later date to answer the drug possession charges.

The Latest vote count in the 22nd Congressional District has now swung back to give Republican Claudia Tenney the lead over incumbent Democrat Anthony Brindisi.  All of the Counties have to certify their vote totals, State Supreme Court Justice Scott DelConte ordered each of the 8 counties in the congressional district to submit a final, unofficial count to the court by yesterday afternoon, the next court action is expected next Monday December 7th, when Judge DelConte is expected to rule on

2000 disputed ballots.

A.M. NEWS TUESDAY 12-1-20

Governor Cuomo today announced New York's annual statewide holiday donation drive to benefit families in need across the state begins today.  Donations of new unwrapped toys, coats and school supplies are being sought to assist community-based organizations during the holiday giving season.  The Office of General Services has set up drop-off locations across the state through Wednesday, December 16.  COVID-19 protocols will be in place to ensure the safety of those dropping off donations including masks, social distancing, and access to hand sanitizer.  The drop-off locations include the Binghamton State Office Building, 44 Hawley St., Binghamton & the Homer Folks Facility, 28 Hill Street Oneonta.

Otsego County Department of Health reported 19 new COVID cases Monday, bringing them to 1314 total confirmed cases since March.  There are 89 active cases, 4 are hospitalized there have been 8 deaths, 764 cases are linked to SUNY Oneonta & 71 to Hartwick College.

The Broome County Health Department had 179 more positive cases of COVID 19 diagnosed since Friday, bringing their total to 4744 since March, they had 2 more deaths reported, bringing their total to 114, there have been 4089 recoveries and over 4200 are being monitored by the Health Department.

The SUNY Oneonta COVID Response Team gathered feedback and answered questions about the college’s Draft Re-opening Plan for spring 2021 at 2 virtual town halls last week.   SUNY Oneonta Acting President Dennis Craig told WCDO News that the plan is largely in place but will be amended as needed:

(Dennis Craig 11-23-20)

Over 750 staff, faculty, students and their parents participated. The recordings of both town halls are available at suny.oneonta.edu/covid-19 regarding the spring 2021 reopening plan.

The Sidney Central School District has been notified that 2 members of the District community have tested positive for COVID-19. The first individual has not been on campus since Thursday, November 12th and the second individual since last Friday, November 20th.  The Department of Health Services has conducted and completed the contact tracing. Any and all people impacted have been notified. The potential exposure has been minimized in this case because of the emphasis placed on wearing face coverings and social distancing; there will be no change to the current Sidney School Schedule.

A.M. NEWS MONDAY 11-23-20

Governor Cuomo held a COVID 19 briefing in New York City Sunday; he stated that the current concern will be how high the infection rates will get after Thanksgiving & the Christmas holidays:

(Cuomo 11-23-20)

The state performed over 196,608 tests Saturday, with 5391 positive tests, 2562 are now hospitalized, 500 are in an ICU Bed, 234 are on ventilators & there were 30 deaths from COVID Saturday.

Otsego County Department of Health reported 11 new cases of COVID on Saturday & 17 cases Sunday.   Otsego County now has had 1185 total confirmed cases, 93 active cases, 4 hospitalized, 8 deaths, 764 cases are linked to SUNY Oneonta & 71 confirmed cases in Hartwick College students.

P.M. NEWS TUESDAY 11-17-20

SUNY Acting President Dennis Craig announced that the college's COVID Response Team with more than 50 college employees, students and parents shared its Draft Re-opening Plan for the Spring 2021 semester with staff & students & parents recently.  President Craig Told WCDO News of the timeline to bring back students on the spring:

(President Craig 11-17-20)

President Craig said that 2 Town halls are planned, 1 on Wednesday afternoon for faculty & staff, & another 1 Wednesday Evening for students & parents.  The full document is at suny.oneonta.edu/covid-19, the COVID Response Team is adding items into the draft plan by the December 10th deadline to SUNY.

Broome County Health Department reported another 61 positive COVID 19 tests Tuesday, giving the County 4,340, they have had 112 deaths, 3776 recoveries & 3900 are being monitored. The Broome County Health Department has learned that a person who was at Midway Lanes, in Vestal, on November 11th and 12th has tested positive for COVID-19, if you were at the location you should self-quarantine until November 26th or 27th respectively & contact a health care provider if symptoms occur.

The Community Foundation for South Central New York has received $200,000 in grants from Chobani, to 4 central New York organizations helping organizations expand their economic opportunities and entrepreneurship in the region. Chobani has named four recipients: The Charlotte Valley Central School District, Clear Path for Veterans, Cornell Cooperative Extension of Chenango County & The Center for Agricultural Development and Entrepreneurship.

Otsego County Department of Health reported 6 new cases of COVID 19 Monday.  The County is up to 1104 total confirmed cases, they have 47 active cases with 2 hospitalized, there have been 8 deaths, 756 cases are linked to SUNY Oneonta & 67 confirmed cases in Hartwick College students.

Broome County Health Department announced another death from COVID 19, giving them a total of 112 since March. They report 4279 total cases, 3724 recoveries & they are still monitoring over 4200 people. The Health Department has learned of a person who was on a Greyhound bus traveling from Port Authority, in New York to Binghamton on November 7th between 10:00 AM & 2:00 PM, has tested positive for COVID-19, anyone who was on that bus should self-quarantine until November 22nd & they should contact a healthcare provider if COVID symptoms develop.

Otsego County Department of Health had 12 cases of COVID 19 reported over the past 2 days, the number of community cases with no identifiable exposures are rising. Otsego County is up to 1098 total confirmed cases, with 44 active cases, 2 are hospitalized, there have been 8 deaths, 756 are linked to SUNY Oneonta & there are 65 confirmed cases in Hartwick College students.