WCDO Radio News

P.M. NEWS THURSDAY 12-30-21

Delhi Firefighters responded Wednesday evening to a fire at 161 Main Street in the village, at a homeless shelter.  4 occupants escaped without injury, the building is a total loss, and the cause of the fire is under investigation.

Governor Kathy Hochul today announced New York State's success in awarding $900 million in Child Care Stabilization Grants to child care programs statewide. The grants are part of a $2.3 billion package of investments in New York State's child care industry funded by the federal American Rescue Plan Act and Coronavirus Response and Relief Supplemental Appropriations Act. The Office of Children and Family Services (OCFS) awarded funding to nearly 15,000 eligible child care providers over four months, from August through November.  Over 219 Million Dollars will go to the Southern Tier Counties child care programs.

The Otsego County Health Department Reported 116 new COVID 19 cases Wednesday, they reported 299 active cases, 11 hospitalized and a positivity rate of 8.2% over the previous 7 days.  COVID Vaccines are available in Milford; appointments can be made at appointments.bioreference.com/nystatecovidtesting

The American Red Cross is holding a blood drive today at the A.O. Fox Hospital Tri-Town Campus Lab between 1:30 PM and 6:30PM in the Conference Room N-112. Another Blood drive will be held in Cooperstown from 12:00 Noon until 5:00 PM at the Otsego County Office of Emergency Services, 140 County Highway 33W, Appointments may be made at redcrossblood.org or by calling 1-800-RedCross.

Delaware County Public Health reported 117 new COVID cases for Tuesday & Wednesday, with a positivity rate still at 9.5%.  They have 272 active cases, 10 hospitalized & 336 quarantined, there have been 85 deaths from the virus in Delaware County.

Chenango County Health Department has scheduled a Moderna and Janssen booster clinic today at the South Plaza Clinic site in Norwich.  The vaccination appointments link can be found at co.chenango.ny.us/public-health, other vaccine clinics can be found at covid19vaccine.health.ny.gov.

P.M. NEWS WEDNESDAY 12-8-21

Chenango County Health Department confirmed their 92nd Resident death attributed to COVID-19 infection. Chenango County reports 321 active cases, 25% of them are fully vaccinated, there are 710 quarantined, 8 hospitalized. Links to Vaccination clinics are available at co.chenango.ny.us or covid19vaccine.health.ny.gov.

Governor Kathy Hochul today announced New York's annual statewide holiday donation drive to benefit families in need across New York will begin tomorrow. 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 , local drop off points will be the Binghamton State Office Building, 44 Hawley Street, & the Homer Folks Facility, 28 Hill Street, Oneonta.

Chenango County Has added another set of materials to be recycled, Spokesman Dustin Hendricks explains:

(Dustin Hendricks 12-8-21)

Hendricks said that they have added Apparel Impact to the Textile recycling program, in addition to the Salvation Army Collection containers, they ask that all items are dry and don't contain mold, and they don't have to be in wearable condition.

Delhi Police arrested 28-year-old Andrew Kreger of Delhi for 6 counts of Petty Larceny, 6 counts of Criminal Possession of Stolen Property, 6 counts of Criminal Possession of Forged Instrument and 3 counts of Forgery, follow a recent investigation. Kreger was arraigned in Delhi Town Court where he was remanded to the Delaware County Jail on $25,000 cash bail or $25,000 secured bond.

P.M. NEWS FRIDAY 12-3-21

State Police arrested 36 year old William Sabines of Preston after he was indicted by a Chenango County Grand Jury Thursday. Sabines was charged with 2nd degree Murder, Concealment of a Human Corpse and Tampering with Physical Evidence. Sabines was arrested following an investigation into the disappearance of Jesse Donlin, formerly of Sidney, Unadilla and Afton locally. Donlin was reported missing in September of 2019 after failing to appear for a court appearance in Utica, the investigation ultimately led to Sabines arrest. Sabines was remanded to the Chenango County Jail on $250,000 cash bail or $500,000 bond pending future court action.

Chenango County Sheriff's Office received a missing person complaint regarding 32 year old Amanda Lanfair, who was last seen on November 26th, and stated that she was going to Long Island and was to return on November 28th. Lanfair was last seen wearing a black baseball cap, green Carhartt jacket and black Puma sneakers. Any information on her whereabouts please contact the Chenango County Sheriff's Office at 607-334-2000.

Former New York City Health Commissioner Dr. Mary Bassett became the State Health Commissioner on Wednesday, replacing Dr. Howard Zucker, who had been the state Health Commissioner since 2015. Bassett takes over as the state's COVID-19 hospitalizations are increasing across the state. Bassett was credited, along with Dr. Zucker & Dr. Anthony Fauci of the CDC with stopping a potentially deadly Ebola Outbreak after 1 case was found and contained in New York City in 2013.

A.M. NEWS FRIDAY 12-3-21

Governor Kathy Hochul today announced the first 5 confirmed cases of the COVID-19 Omicron variant in New York State. So far, the cases appear unrelated and have been confirmed through sequencing of the SARS-CoVID-2 virus. 1 case is from Suffolk County, 4 others are in New York City, 4 other states have also reported cases of the new COVID variant. On Thursday, Governor Hochul announced that the State has ordered 1 Million Testing Kits to Distribute to Local Health Departments & 40 New Pop-Up Vaccine Sites will be launched this month.

Oneonta Fire Department responded to a structure fire last night at Monser Brothers Tire & Auto on Chestnut Street in Oneonta. Fire fighters responded to the report of flames through the roof of the building late last night, Multiple fire departments also responded including West Oneonta, Laurens, West Laurens, Mount Vision, Franklin, Sidney, Worcester, Pindars Corners & Otego.

Bassett Healthcare Network will be holding a COVID-19 vaccination clinic open to community members, including children, on Saturday, from 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM at Bassett Medical Center’s outpatient clinic building in Cooperstown. The clinic will offer boosters for Moderna, Pfizer, Johnson & Johnson; first- and second-dose Pfizer shots for children ages 5 to 17; and flu shots. No appointments are needed for this walk-in clinic. Patients should bring their vaccination cards and prescription insurance cards.

P.M. NEWS WEDNESDAY 12-1-21

The Village of Sidney announced that the demolition of a fire damaged building will begin today. 14 East Main Street was damaged by fire a couple of years ago, the structure at the corner of East Main & Chestnut will be demolished, the project is expected to last between 3 & 5 days.

The Otsego County Health Department announced another COVID 19 death in their most recent report released Tuesday. The County had 48 new cases, 208 active cases, 8 are hospitalized, and the 7 day rolling average for positivity rate was 8.5%. Otsego County has had 878 COVID deaths since the pandemic started, 66 of them this year.

Former Broome District Attorney Steve Cornwell's case will be handled by a special prosecutor, instead of by current DA Michael Korchak. The 2 indictments accuse the former DA of public corruption and larceny during his 4-year term in office, Korchak spent 4 years as the chief assistant DA under Cornwell before taking office in January 2020 after a heated election between the 2 prosecutors.

The Chenango County Health Department is hosting a Pfizer Vaccine Clinic at Afton Central School for children 5 and older today in the old gym at Door 13, on Sands Street, from 4:00 to 7:00 PM. Registration is available at apps2.health.ny.gov or go to co.chenango.ny.us/public-health and click on the COVID vaccine and scheduling button.

P.M. NEWS MONDAY 11-29-21

The Silo Restaurant in Greene was destroyed by a fire early Sunday Morning, with 17 fire companies from 3 counties responding, WCDO News spoke with owner Gary Kurz, who said that he had an agreement in place to sell the legendary restaurant & was ready to sign papers this week:

(Gary Kurz 11-29-21)

Kurz said that he had about 35 employees at the Silo, he said that investigators are at the scene today to try to determine where the fire started, it was not a kitchen fire & appeared to start in the middle of the building, and the nearby Carriage house was not affected.

The Delaware County Sheriff's Office announced that a motor vehicle accident in the Town of Sidney has resulted in the arrest of a Village of Sidney resident on a suspended registration charges. On Tuesday November 23rd, Deputies were dispatched to a report of a 1 car motor vehicle accident, Deputies observed that the vehicle involved had exited the roadway and impacted the guide-rail rendering the vehicle inoperable. Deputies located the operator of the vehicle, 25 year old Alexandra Ahern, of Sidney and issued her an appearance ticket for Operating a Motor Vehicle with a Suspended Registration, she will appear before the Town of Sidney Court at a later date to answer for the charge.

Delaware County Sheriff's Sheriff’s Deputies responded Thursday to a physical domestic dispute in the Village of Walton. Deputies were informed that the suspect, 33-year-old Leanne Woolard of Walton, had left on foot and was possibly armed with a knife. Woolard allegedly engaged in physical contact with another person during a domestic dispute and caused another person physical injury with a dangerous instrument. Deputies charged Woolard with 2nd degree Assault, plus Menacing, she was arraigned in the Village of Walton court and was released & was ordered to reappear at a later date.

A.M. NEWS MONDAY 11-29-21

The Silo Restaurant in Greene was destroyed by fire early Sunday morning. Chenango County Fire Officials reported that Coventry Fire department responded first, & was assisted by firefighters from Bainbridge, Oxford, Greene, Guilford, Harpursville, Afton, Masonville & Sidney, along with several Broome County Fire Companies. No injuries were reported, The nearby Carriage House was not affected, the Cause of the fire is under investigation.

P.M. NEWS FRIDAY 10-22-21

The Broome County Health Department announced that they have reached 400 deaths from COVID-19 since March 2020. The department reported that the peak month was January of 2021 when 86 people died from the virus. Currently, there are 778 cases of COVID 19 in Broome County, with 73 hospitalized, The deadliest month was January 2021, where the county reports 86 deaths from the disease. Currently, there are 778 active cases of COVID-19 in Broome County. 73 people are hospitalized. More than 24,200 positive cases have been reported since the beginning of the pandemic.

Delaware County District Attorney John Hubbard has announced the start of his campaign for Delaware County Judge in the 2022 election. The position will be on the 2022 ballot following the announcement of retirement by Judge Richard Northrup. Hubbard was elected District Attorney in November 2016 and was re-elected in 2020, he previously served as Chief Assistant District Attorney under Northrup for 10 years, after first joining the office in 2000 as an Assistant D.A.

The US Attorney's office announced that 35 year old Matthew Bormann of Sherburne pleaded guilty to possession of child pornography, in federal court this week. Bormann admitted that on March 12th, during a visit at his home from his United States Probation Officer, he possessed at least 3500 images and video files of child pornography on a cellular telephone he was prohibited from possessing under the conditions of his supervised release, following a 2014 federal conviction for possession of child pornography. Bormann will be sentenced for this 2nd conviction & for violating the terms of his probation on March 2nd 2022.

Village of Bainbridge Officials announced that the former Great American building and property will be auctioned on 3:00 PM today on site at 51 North Main St., Bainbridge, by Manasse Auctions. More information is available at manasseauctions.com.

Delaware County Board of Elections reminds voters that Early Voting begins tomorrow at the Board of Elections Office in Delhi. Early voting will be held from Saturday through Sunday October 31st, those who vote early can NOT vote on Election Day. More information is available at Delaware County Board of Elections at 607 832-5321

The Chenango Arts Council presents "Till Death Investigations" a film about paranormal activities, this Sunday night at 7:00 PM at the Martin W. Kappel Theater, Arts Council Executive Director Alecia O'Neill explains:

(Alecia O'Neill 10-22-21)

O'Neill said that Till Death Investigations has their own series on YouTube of similar paranormal investigations; more information is available by calling 336-2787, or going to chenangoarts.org.

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 American Red Cross of Western New York will be holding a Job Fair for a number of positions within the Binghamton area, this Thursday from 12:00 to 6:00 PM at the Southern Tier Chapter office at 620 East Main Street in Endicott. Regional donor Services Director Hanna Malak told WCDO News what positions are available:

(Hanna Malak 9-8-21)

Malak said that the interviews will be held on site Thursday in Endicott for both positions, Walk-ins are welcome or applicants can pre-register at redcross.org/careers, those interested are reminded to bring a resume Thursday.

Delaware County Sheriff's Deputies were dispatched to a neighbor dispute on July 31st, at 60 River Street in the Town of Stamford. 58-year-old Kenneth Utter and 69-year-old Janet Starkweather, both of Stamford, are accused of subjecting another person to unwanted physical contact, the victim’s harassment complaints were forwarded to the Town of Stamford Court, which was requested to issue a criminal summons for Starkweather and Utter. Deputies located and arrested Utter and Starkweather last week, they were charged with 1 count each of harassment, they were ordered to appear in the Town of Stamford Court on a later date.

A.M. NEWS TUESDAY 9-7-21

Governor Kathy Hochul signed four pieces of legislation, to establish a demonstration program to implement speed violation monitoring systems in work zones to keep workers safe and make construction contractors liable for the wages owed to their subcontractors. They also require the payment of prevailing wage to building service employees at high-end co-ops and condos and extend Shared Work Benefits.

The State Department of Transportation announced that State Route 28 near Frank Slawson and Epps roads in the town of Franklin will close starting today for a culvert replacement over Knapp Brook. DOT Officials stated that motorists on State Route 28 will be detoured to take state Route 23 to Davenport Center and then take county Highway 10 to Meridale to connect back to state Route 28, the project is expected to be completed on September 22nd. Also, starting today, Old Route 17 in the Town of Windsor will undergo culvert construction; a road closure is near the intersection of 17 and Ostrander Road. Old Route 17 will likely be closed for 2 months & is scheduled to reopen around November 9th.

Firefighters from several companies responded to the report of a Barn Fire at 723 Hotchkiss Road in Greene Late Sunday Night. Firefighters from Greene, Chenango Forks, Port Crane, Coventry, and Brisben responded, the barn was fully engulfed & was a total loss, and the investigation into the cause of the fire is ongoing.

P.M. NEWS MONDAY 8-30-21

Commerce Chenango will hold their annual Luncheon at Hidden Springs Brewhouse on September 9th in Norwich, Commerce Chenango President & CEO Kerri Green explains:

(Kerri Green 8-30-21)

Green said that the "Spirit of Chenango" award will go to long time area educator Grayson Stevens, the Excellence in Small Business Award goes to Build Block Building systems; the manufacturer of the year is Chenango Valley Technologies & Lamb's Quarters is the Non-Profit Agency of the Year.

The United Way of Delaware and Otsego Counties’ fall funding process has opened on its website, unitedwaydo.org; the 1-year funding application process is open to any 501 C-3 nonprofit organization serving Delaware or Otsego County families and addressing the issues of income (basic needs or financial stability), education or health in our community.   The due date for all Delaware and Otsego County applications is November 15th, Applications will be reviewed, and funding decisions will be announced in late February, 2022. More information is available at 334-8815, or by email to: cuwelizabeth@chenangouw.org.

The Sidney Central School District announced a plan for the school year that will include being in session 5 days per week for in-person learning for all grade levels. There will be no health screenings or temperature checks upon entering the building, but Face coverings will be required starting today, Sidney Superintendent Eben Bullock told WCDO News that the requirements are in line with Governor Hochul's recommendations, plus the district has an added bonus:

(Eben Bullock 8-30-21)

Bullock said that Face coverings for all students and staff are also required on district transportation, in hallways, entrances, exits, lobbies, restrooms & in all other congregate settings.  There will be no face coverings required while outside, Physical Distancing of at least 3 feet between students will exist in the classroom setting, whenever possible.  More information is available at 561-7700.

NYSEG officials determined that a raccoon made its way into a substation in Broome County last night, leaving about 10,000 Broome County Area residents without power.  NYSEG officials said that power was restored in about an hour.

Lawmakers could be called back to Albany as early as this Wednesday for a Special Session.  Lawmakers are expected to extend the eviction moratorium until next January, to alleviate financial pressure on both renters and owners due to the COVID 19 pandemic.

A.M. NEWS MONDAY 8-30-21

State Police arrested 32 year old Phillip Cosilmon of Preston for Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance following a traffic stop in the village of Greene and the execution of a search warrant at his residence. State Police seized crystal methamphetamine, suboxone strips, cocaine, LSD, heroin, prescription pills & a large quantity of Cash, multiple firearms which included 4 assault rifles, a large quantity of ammunition and various stolen items.   Cosilmon was arraigned in the Coventry Town Court and was remanded to the Chenango County Jail on $150,000 bail.

State Police 35 year old Jovonne Best of Bainbridge for 2 counts of Aggravated Assault against a Police Officer with a Deadly Weapon, Reckless Endangerment, Criminal Mischief, Driving While Impaired by Drugs and Obstructing Governmental Administration.   Officers responded to a report of a violation of an order of protection in the town of Bainbridge, a trooper was interviewing Best when she ran into the garage and got into a vehicle, accelerated in reverse and nearly struck the Investigator, struck the garage door frame, the debris struck the trooper, she also struck the State Police vehicle, she was pursued by Police into a cornfield, where she fled on foot & was arrested. Best was arraigned at the Bainbridge Town Court where she was remanded to the Chenango County Jail on $25,000 cash bail or $50,000 property bond.

Otsego County Sheriff's Office arrested 33 year old Casey Smith of the Town of Butternuts for Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance, after deputies responded to assist State Parole Officers with a home visit where Smith is accused of possessing a large amount of narcotics, he was arraigned in Otsego County Centralized Arraignment and released on his own recognizance, he was then sent to the Otsego County Correctional Facility on a parole warrant. He is scheduled to appear in the Town of Butternuts Court at a later date.

A JOHNSON CITY MAN WAS FOUND GUILTY ON TWO COUNTS OF SEXUAL ABUSE FRIDAY IN BROOME COUNTY COURT. RAYVON MCNEALY WAS CONVICTED OF SEXUAL ABUSE IN THE FIRST DEGREE AND ONE COUNT OF ENDANGERING THE WELFARE OF A 7 YEAR OLD CHILD. MCNEALY WILL BE SENTENCED ON OCTOBER 7TH.

AS OF TODAY, ANYONE ENTERING A BROOME COUNTY-OPERATED BUILDING, MUST WEAR A MASK. THE DECISION WAS MADE BY BROOME COUNTY OFFICIALS AFTER THE CDC ELEVATED BROOME COUNTY TO A QUOTE, "SUBSTANIAL LEVEL OF VIRUS TRANSMISSION. THE ROSS PARK ZOO IN BINGHAMTON HAS ALSO SAID ALL GUESTS MUST WEAR MASKS WHETHER OR NOT THEY HAVE BEEN VACCINATED.

THE CHENANGO ARTS COUNCIL IN NORWICH ANNOUNCES IT'S FIRST LIVE PERFORMANCE SINCE THE PANDEMIC CAUSED THEM TO CLOSE DOWN. THE NEW SEASON KICKS OFF THIS SATURDAY AT 7PM WITH MARK SANDS REALTIME DIXIELAND BAND...FEATURING NEW ORLEANS DIXIELAND JAZZ AND MUSIC FROM LOUIS ARMSTRONG, BILLE HOLIDAY, JELLYROLL MORTON AND MORE. TICKETS ARE AVAILABLE AT CHENANGO ARTS DOT ORG, BY CALLING 336-2787, AND AT THE DOOR.

P.M. NEWS THURSDAY 6-17-21

Police in Cobleskill arrested 53 year old Raymond George for 1st degree manslaughter, for allegedly driving his vehicle into the Colonial Motel Tuesday, killing fellow Motel resident James Williams, following an argument.  Police reported that 2 dogs were also killed in the incident, 11 people were displaced due to the structural damage to the building.  George was arrested shortly after the incident nearby, Police determined that Williams had been sitting on a bench outside his room with his dogs, when he was struck; he was trapped in the wreckage and was pronounced dead at the scene. George was arraigned and ordered held without bail.  State Police, Schoharie County Sheriff's Department, the Schoharie County District Attorney’s Office and state corrections officials assisted with the investigation.

Otsego County Sheriff's Office arrested 32 year old Joseph Santiago of Burlington following a traffic stop in the Town of Burlington on June 7th.   Santiago was charged with Criminal Possession of a Hypodermic Instrument & Criminal Possession Controlled Substance.  The Investigation revealed that Santiago, who was a passenger in the stopped vehicle, was wanted on an active bench warrant issued out of the Town of New Lisbon court, he was found to be in possession of numerous narcotics during the stop.  Santiago was remanded to the Otsego County Correctional Facility on the bench warrant; he faces action in Town of Burlington court June 21st.

The Otsego County Department of Health will be holding a Johnson and Johnson single dose COVID Vaccine clinic tomorrow.  The clinic will be held from 1:00 to 3:00 PM at the Laurens Fire Department, for those 18 & older, no appointments are necessary; the clinic will be walk in only.

The Binghamton Rumble Ponies return to Binghamton to play a 4 game homestand starting tonight against Portland, at the newly renamed Mirabito Stadium.  Team General Manager J.B. Bayne told WCDO News that the COVID guidelines have been changed, and fans can come out to the games like they did before the Pandemic.

(J.B. Bayne 6-17-21)

Information about the team's schedule, ticket prices, promotions & roster are available at BINGRP.com.

A.M. NEWS THURSDAY 6-17-21

Frontier Communications reported 2 work vans missing from their property at 2 Oak Avenue in the Village of Sidney on Monday; the vans were recovered Tuesday in a wooded area outside the village.  Sidney Police Department, Delaware County Sheriff’s Office and State Police executed a search warrant of 5 Division Street in Sidney Wednesday; they arrested 47 year old Brian Kingsbury of Sidney & 24 year old Nikita Crumb of Sidney for Criminal Possession of Stolen Property.  Both were arraigned in the Village of Sidney court, Crumb was released on her own recognizance to appear back in court at a later date, Kingsbury was remanded to the Delaware County Jail. The investigation is on-going and more arrests are expected.

State Police continue to investigate a fatal hit and run involving a vehicle that struck 2 bicyclists on Route 26 in Cincinnatus.   The deceased bicyclist is identified as 67 year old Kitt Warren of De Ruyter; the injured bicyclist is identified as 67 year old John Rutan of McGraw, who was taken to Upstate Medical Center with non-life-threatening injuries.  2 other bicyclists were not injured and are identified as a 34-year-old female of Greene, and a 64-year-old male of Cincinnatus.  The operator of the vehicle did not stop; the vehicle was located by a Cortland County Sheriff’s Deputy in the Town of Willet. The investigation is on-going; more will be released when it is available.

Afton Fire fighters responded to a Commercial Building Fire at 175 Main Street last night, at the new Gavin's Pizza location that opened earlier that day.  Afton received assistance from Harpursville, Masonville, Bainbridge & Coventry.  Fire was located in the wall of the building, & was knocked down quickly; Mike Gavin told WCDO News that he hopes to be re-opening sometime next week.

Commerce Chenango will host their 2021 Gala This evening at the Canasawacta Country Club in Norwich, Commerce Chenango CEO & President Kerri Green said that awards will be given out to deserving area businesses & organizations:

(Kerri Green 5-21-21)

Green said that this will be the first in person social event for Commerce Chenango Members in over a year, due to the pandemic.

The Delaware County Chamber of Commerce's Third Thursday program continues with Assemblyman Joe Angelino.  The event will run virtually this morning from 8:30 to 9:30 AM, to register, go to delawarecounty.org.

The Otsego County Sheriff's Office arrested 21 year old Scott Sieger of Oneonta following an investigation into a Forged Check.   Sieger was charged with Forgery, criminal Possession of Stolen Property & Criminal Impersonation, for allegedly forging a stolen check in order to purchase a vehicle, he will appear in Town of Oneonta Court at a later date.

P.M. NEWS MONDAY 6-14-21

The Sidney Police Department is requesting the public's assistance in locating 2 Frontier Communications vehicles that were stolen.  Today, Sidney Police Department responded to the Frontier building at 2 Oak Avenue for a report of a burglary, officers learned that the 2 vehicles, assorted tools and equipment were taken from the property.   Police are looking for a 2008 Chevrolet Express Full-size van bearing a NYS license plate number of 64460JV & A 2012 Chevrolet Express Full-size van bearing a NYS license plate number of 74516MC.  Sidney Police believes the vehicles were taken sometime between Sunday night and early this morning, anyone with information is asked to contact the Sidney Police Department at 561-2301. Anyone who finds or observes either van should call 911 immediately.

Delaware County Sheriff’s Office arrested 33 year old Chad Ellis of Port Crane on an active Bench Warrant held by the Village of Sidney Police Department and a Delaware County Family Court Warrant held by the Delaware County Sheriff's Office.   Ellis was located last Thursday, he was turned over to members of the Sidney Police Department for arraignment in the Village of Sidney Court, following his release, Deputies arrested Ellis on the Delaware County Family Court Warrant committing him to the Delaware County Correctional Facility for a term of 6 months or until payment of arrears is made to the Delaware County Support Collection Unit.

Utica Police & State Police reported that a Utica area woman stole & ambulance Sunday Morning in Utica and drove it to the Rochester area, before crashing it into the Irondequoit Bay.   Kunkel Ambulance Service alerted Utica Police, they alerted State Police the ambulance was heading west on the Thruway, a Monroe County scuba team was able to pull the ambulance up from the water just after 5:00 PM Sunday, The woman was rescued shortly after the ambulance went into the bay, She was taken into custody, her name has not been released & The investigation is continuing.

The 2021 New York State Fair will run from August 20th to September 6th in Syracuse, it will increase capacity to 100% and reopen many popular buildings with additional vendors.  In accordance with the State's evolving health guidelines, indoor spaces will be subject to capacity limits to allow attendees to be socially distanced within each building.  Attendees will be required to follow COVID-19 health guidance that is in effect at that time. Further details can be found at the State Fair website.

The Chenango County Fair will be on in August, Fair Spokesperson Mary Weidman explains:

(Mary Weidman 6-14-21)

Weidman said that more information is available at chenangocountyfair.homestead.com.

On Sunday, the Sidney Police Department responded to a domestic dispute on Riverview Drive, the officer entered the home & was attacked by a 17 year old male.  The officer was able to draw his Taser and after warning was forced to use it when the 17 year old male appeared to charge the officer a 2nd time.  The 17 year old male was then taken into custody without any further incident, the officer was not injured and the 17 year old male was evaluated by EMS at the scene and released. The 17 year old male was charged with Harassment & was released on an appearance ticket to appear in Sidney court at a later date.

The Delaware County Chamber of Commerce's Third Thursday program continues this week, with Assemblyman Joe Angelino.  The event will run virtually Thursday from 8:30 to 9:30 AM, to register, go to delawarecounty.org.

Otsego County Sheriff's Office arrested 35 year old Randy Deese of Unadilla for violating a valid order of protection while incarcerated at the Otsego County Correctional Facility.  Deese was charged with 90 counts of Criminal Contempt following an investigation for continuously contacted the protected party in an order of protection.

P.M. NEWS THURSDAY 5-27-21

Chenango County Public Health confirmed the 77th death from COVID 19 in the County.  The county has 33 active cases, 119 quarantined, & 1 hospitalized.  There have been 3458 total confirmed cases in Chenango County of the virus, with 3261 recoveries.

UHS Chenango Memorial Hospital's Sidney office on Pearl Street, will host a Pfizer vaccination Clinic for children ages 12 to 18, tomorrow from 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM, Dr. Rohan Jayasena told WCDO News getting the children vaccinated is crucial in returning to returning to pre-COVID activities:

(Dr. Rohan Jayasena 5-27-21)

Appointments must be made at 337-4888 to reserve a specific time slot.

Sidney Village Police are investigating the painting of a religious slur on a trash container at a building on Cartwright Avenue that is owned by Village Mayor Andy Matviak and rented to a Muslim owned business, Matviak talked to WCDO news about the incident:

(Andy Matviak 5-27-21)

Mayor Matviak said that so far, no arrests have been made.

A.M. NEWS THURSDAY 5-27-21

State Police arrested 29 year old Kyle Vansteensburg of Ohio, was wanted by the Cuyohoga County Sheriff’s Office in Ohio for Attempted Unlawful Sexual Conduct with a Minor after he was one of 27 men arrested in an undercover sting by Ohio’s Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force.    Vansteensburg was found to be a passenger in a vehicle that was stopped by troopers for vehicle and traffic violations on State Route 23 in the Town of Oneonta.   Vansteensburg was arraigned in the Town of Oneonta court and remanded to the Otsego Jail without bail, pending an extradition hearing back to Ohio.

State Police reported that 15 year old Adrianna Leidecker was located in Steuben County by Troopers, She was returned to the custody of her parent.  Leidecker has had a recent history of running away from her home.

The Delaware County Sheriff's Office will be holding a Police Memorial Day ceremony today.  The ceremony will begin at 5:00 PM at the Delaware County Sheriff's Office in Delhi.

P.M. NEWS MONDAY 5-17-21

Chenango County Sheriff's Deputies were dispatched Sunday morning to the Mirabito Gas Station in the Village of Greene where they located 31 year old Phillip Cosilmon of Smithville slumped over his steering wheel, with drugs & drug paraphernalia in plain view. Cosilmon was taken into custody and the Sheriff's Office Narcotics Division conducted a search of the vehicle and seized 2 pounds of Methamphetamine, Cocaine, Heroin, & other narcotics plus over $22,000 in cash, the narcotics seized had a street value exceeding $100,000.   Cosilmon was charged with Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance, he was arraigned in the Town of Norwich Court & was remanded to the Chenango County Correctional Facility without bail, pending action in Chenango County Court on May 17th. The investigation is still ongoing, and more charges are likely.

The Chenango County Health Department is hosting a Free Johnson & Johnson 1 shot Vaccine Clinic in West Park in Norwich Wednesday from 1:00 to 2:30 pm.  No appointment is needed; the Clinic is first come first serve, with 40 doses available. More information is available at 337-1660.

The Unatego Central School district will be asking for voter approval tomorrow on a $27.8 million dollar building project, Unatego Superintendent Dr. Dave Richards explains:

(Dr. Dave Richards 5-17-21)

Dr. Richards said that the project would be paid for with 87.5% state aid plus a capital reserve fund, resulting in no tax increase to district taxpayers.  Voting on the project & The Unatego Budget, and all state school budgets, will be tomorrow.

A.M. NEWS MONDAY 5-17-21

This Week is National EMS week, local state Senator Peter Oberacker said that volunteers are needed across the state at fire departments & emergency squads:

(Senator Oberacker 5-17-21)

Senator Oberacker is looking to submit legislation to make it easier to someone looking to volunteers for their local emergency squad, Senator Oberacker still volunteers with the Schenevus Emergency Squad.

Chenango County Public Health reported 9 new COVID cases today, 112 active case, 5 hospitalizations & 483 quarantined.  Chenango County has had 3238 Cases with 2962 recoveries & over 105,000 tests conducted.

Hospice & Palliative Care of Chenango County is concluding their annual Spring plant sale Fundraiser shortly, with pick-ups of orders next week, Hospice spokesperson Sarah Green explains:

(Sarah Green 4-29-21)

Green said that the orders are due in by tomorrow April 30th, more information is available at 334-3556 or at hospicechenango.org.

UHS Chenango Memorial Hospital will hold its first walk-in COVID-19 vaccine clinic tomorrow from 11:00 AM to 6:30 PM at the Awestruck Tap Room in the Sidney Industrial Park.  Chenango Memorial Vice President of Clinical Services David Finney told WCDO News that now is the time to get the COVID Vaccine:

(David Finney 4-29-21)

Finney said that Walk-ins are welcome and encouraged, anyone who wishes to reserve a spot can call Awestruck at 232-1143.  The CMH Vaccine Team will return to Awestruck on Thursday, May 27 to administer the 2nd dose of the Moderna vaccine to those who attend tomorrow's clinic.   Those interested in scheduling an appointment at one of UHS Chenango Memorial's upcoming vaccine clinics, can call their COVID Vaccine Line at 337-4888.

Binghamton Fire Investigators believe that an electric baseboard heater near a couch is to blame for Tuesday's fire at 74 Front Street.  Members of the SUNY Men's Lacrosse team had been living in the house, the building was demolished after the fire & subsequent investigation, and no injuries were reported.

A.M. NEWS THURSDAY 4-29-21

Beginning Today, all New York State mass vaccination sites will open to eligible New Yorkers 16 years of age & older for walk-in vaccination on a 1st come, 1st serve basis.  The walk-in appointments are reserved for 1st doses only, 2nd-dose appointments will be scheduled immediately after New Yorkers receive their first dose.

Sidney Town Supervisor Gene Pigford is calling a special public hearing regarding zoning laws. The public hearing will be Today at 6:30 p.m. at the Town Hall Building located at 44 Grand Street, Sidney.

The Otsego County Department of Health will be holding a first dose only vaccination clinic Today at the Meadows Complex in Cooperstown.  This clinic will be using the MODERNA Vaccine, to vaccinate individuals age 18 and older.  Registration can be found on the Otsego County Department of Health Website at otsegocounty.com.

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P.M. NEWS MONDAY 4-26-21

Governor Cuomo announced that the State Fair will be open all 18 days this year in Syracuse, with some restrictions:

(Cuomo 4-26-21)

The Governor also said that Stadiums can go from 20 to 33% capacity, Office can increase from 50 to 75% capacity, Casinos can increase from 25 to 50% capacity & Gyms & Fitness Centers from 33 to 50% capacity.

Chenango County Public Health reported 3213 total COVID cases since the beginning of the pandemic & 57 since Friday. They reported 116 Active Cases today with 4 hospitalized and 494 Active Quarantines & 73 deaths.

The Broome County Department of Health reported 120 new COVID cases with 2 more COVID deaths on Friday. Broome County has had a total of 333 deaths from the Virus; they have had 17,311 cases since the pandemic began.

The Broome County Sheriff's Department reported that on Saturday, on Prescription Drug Take Back Day, they collected 1,920 pounds of old & unused medications. The event is scheduled every year to keep the unused medications out of the waste stream, but also to keep them from getting into the wrong hands.

Delaware County Public Health reported 17 new COVID cases Friday out of 421 tested, they reported 108 active cases, 15 hospitalized & 219 quarantined.

Sidney Town Supervisor Gene Pigford is calling a special public hearing regarding zoning laws. The public hearing will be on Thursday at 6:30 p.m. at the Town Hall Building located at 44 Grand Street, Sidney.

P.M. NEWS THURSDAY 4-15-21

Chenango County Public Health reported another death from COVID 19, giving the county 69 deaths since the pandemic started last year.  Chenango County reports 13 new cases, 114 active cases, 374 Quarantines & 7 hospitalized.

Commerce Chenango is now accepting Award Nominations for local people who make their communities a better place to live.  All nominees must be Commerce Chenango Chamber Members or employees of members and nominations must be received by May 1st, more information is available at 334-1402.

The Unatego Central School district will hold a ZOOM meeting tonight at 6:00 PM regarding their $27.8 million dollar building project, Unatego Superintendent Dr. Dave Richards told WCDO News about the proposal:

(Dr. Dave Richards 4-15-21)

The project would be paid for with 87.5% state aid plus a capital reserve fund, resulting in no tax increase to district taxpayers, voting is on May 18th.

A $1.48 million grant from the New York State Office of Addiction Services and Supports has been announced.   The Mohawk Valley Behavioral Health Care Collaborative and the South Central Behavioral Health Care Collaborative will merge, the funding will be sued to strengthen prevention, treatment, and recovery care services throughout 11 counties, including Broome, Chenango, Delaware, & Otsego Counties locally.  Friends of Recovery of Delaware & Otsego and Leatherstocking Education of Alcoholism and Addictions Foundation are 2 local organizations that will receive grant funding, more information is oasas.ny.gov.

The Delaware County Chamber of Commerce will hold their 3rd Thursday virtual event this morning from 8:30 to 9:30 AM.  The featured speaker for this event is New York State Comptroller Thomas DiNapoli.  More information or registrations are available at delawarecounty.org.

Delaware County Public Health reported 16 new COVID cases Wednesday, out of 475 tested; hospitalizations are at 18, quarantines down to 195 & active cases are at 125.

P.M. NEWS FRIDAY 3-12-21

Delaware County will be presenting the Delaware County Sheriff's Department Reform plans to the state before the April 1st deadline; Delaware County Sheriff Craig DuMond said he was pleased with the plan & some of the changes that will be made:

(DuMond 3-12-21)

Governor Cuomo ordered all law enforcement agencies to meet with the communities they serve & submit reform plans, following last year’s George Floyd incident in Minnesota that sparked nationwide outrage over Police tactics.

Chenango County Public Health added 4 more COVID 19 cases today, bringing them up to 2531 since the pandemic started.  They report 11 hospitalized, 72 active cases with 212 quarantined, they have had 2303 recoveries & 63 deaths.

Several Fire Companies responded to a fire at about 1:20 this morning for structure fire at the Hansman Mill on Water Street in Smithville Flats.  The Genegantslett, Greene, Brisben, McDonough,  fire Departments plus the Chenango County Bureau of Fire, NYSEG & the state DEC responded, the Building was a complete loss. The fire Is still under investigation by the Chenango County Bureau of Fire.

The Otsego County Department of Health will be holding a vaccination clinic at the Meadows Office Complex in Cooperstown on Tuesday March 16th, the registration link is on the Otsego County Department of Health Website.  Registration is mandatory & the vaccine is available to anyone currently listed as eligible according to State Guidelines.

A.M. NEWS FRIDAY 3-12-21

Sidney Village Police responded to a domestic disturbance Thursday,  officers arrested 43 year old Anthony Fiorillo of Sidney for Criminal contempt, Menacing & Harassment.   Fiorillo was arraigned in the Village of Sidney Court & was remanded to the Delaware County Jail on $1000 cash bail or $2000 bond.

Chenango County Sheriff's Office arrested 32 year old Aaron Wickham of Norwich Thursday afternoon for Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance, failing to comply, and several vehicle and traffic law violations. Detectives and Deputies attempted to stop Wickham's motorcycle in Norwich, a chase took place from Norwich into the Village of Bainbridge, where Wickham lost control & was involved in a motor vehicle accident. Wickham was found to be in possession of 2 ounces of methamphetamine and more than a gram of fentanyl, he was scheduled to be processed last night.

Delaware County Sheriff's Deputies responded to a Town of Walton residence after a vehicle sustained extensive damage, a garage was forcefully entered and a fire had been set the night of January 23rd.  The victim’s vehicle was intentionally damaged by a 17-year-old female, the doors of a garage on the property were then kicked in by a second 17-year-old female, they entered the building and started a “bon fire”.  Deputies charged both teens with arson and criminal mischief,  both were issued appearance tickets for Delaware County Youth Court at a later date.

Delaware County Public Health reported 22 new COVID cases out of 287 tested Thursday, they reported 14 hospitalized, 185 quarantined & 133 active cases.  Delaware County Public Health has vaccinated 1,563 people.

P.M. NEWS TUESDAY 3-9-21

US Senators Chuck Schumer & Kirsten Gillibrand announced today the breakdown of stimulus package money to New York Residents & to local governments, Senator Gillibrand commented:

(Gillibrand 3-9-21)

In the stimulus bill, Broome County gets 36.9 Million dollars, Chenango County 9.1 million, Delaware County 8.5 million & Otsego County 11.5 Million dollars, the state gets $12.6 billion in direct fiscal relief, New York cities will get $6.14 billion, counties will receive $3.9 billion, and smaller cities, towns and villages will receive $825 million. New York State will also receive $358 million from the state and local fund for building out broadband infrastructure.

Otsego County Department of Health announced that they are able to vaccinate those individuals that are homebound and unable to get out of the house and travel to a vaccination clinic.   Homebound residents or family should email their contact information to covidvaccine@otsegocounty.com; include person's name, physical address and phone number. More information is also available by calling Otsego County Office for the Aging at 547-4232.  Daily updates regarding COVID 19 or the vaccines can go to otsegocounty.com.

Delaware County Public Health reported 12 new Positive COVID cases out of 111 tested Monday, they have 124 active cases, 11 hospitalized and 266 quarantined.

Chenango County Public Health reported 3 new COVID cases today; they have had a total of 2505 cases since last year.  Currently Chenango County reports 69 active cases, 7 hospitalized & 242 quarantined.

The sentencing of Anais Soto of Oneonta in Otsego County Court has been delayed a 2nd time, Soto pleaded guilty to a 1st degree burglary charge in connection with the robbery & murder of Kenneth Robinson in Worcester, and the subsequent arson of Robinson's home in October 2019.  A new sentencing hearing for Soto was scheduled for May 10th.  Others arrested in connection with the Robinson case included his son, Dylan Robinson, plus Alexander Borgreen, Alexis Lotterman of Walton & Tatiana Febo of Downsville; Nicolas Meridy has already been sentenced to 22 years to life in prison for his role in the case.

The Otsego County Health Department announced that they had 30 new cases of COVID 19 Monday, they have 202 active cases, 6 hospitalized, they had 1 new death from the virus,  they have had 1350 cases of COVID since January 1st with 34 deaths since the beginning of the year, and 53 deaths total since last year.

The Sidney Central School District has been notified that a 10th grade student has tested positive for COVID-19. The student has not been on campus since Wednesday, March 3rd. The Delaware County Health Department has conducted an investigation and the contact tracing has been completed. There will be no change to the instructional model at this time

P.M. NEWS THURSDAY 3-4-21

Delaware County officials announced that, Effective immediately the construction of the new Delaware County Behavioral Medicine building in Walton is being shut down as a precautionary measure, after 2 contractors working on the building have tested positive for COVID-19 and several coworkers are now quarantined.  The shutdown is in effect through March 15, the delay is not expected to impact the timeline for completion.

Chenango County Public Health had 9 COVID 19 positive tests announced today.  They report  62 Active Cases, 245 Active Quarantines, 6 are hospitalized and there have been a Total of 2452 Confirmed Cases since the start of the pandemic in New York State a year ago.

The state Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance announced that all New Yorkers enrolled in the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program or "SNAP" will receive the maximum allowable level of food benefits for March. Roughly half of all households participating in SNAP will receive the supplemental allotment later this month, which will result in an infusion of roughly $100 million into the state’s economy.  More information is available at otda.ny.gov/SNAP-COVID-19 or mybenefits.ny.gov.

A.M. NEWS THURSDAY 3-4-21

Delaware County Public Health reported 10 new COVID cases Wednesday out of 376 tested.  They report 97 positive cases with 11 hospitalized & 401 quarantined.

Delaware County Public Health reported that a raccoon in the Town of Middletown has tested positive for rabies. One person was bitten by the rabid raccoon and has begun Rabies Post-Exposure Prophylaxis.  Raccoons, foxes, skunks, and bats are considered a primary carrier of the rabies virus in the United States.  More information is available at 832-5200 or delawarecountypublichealth.com

Bassett Hospital has just announced a two-day clinic this weekend to administer 1,200 doses of anti-COVID vaccines the county Health Department received for people over 65.  Vaccination clinics will be on Saturday, March 6, and Sunday, March 7, at the Clark Sports Center.  To make an appointment, call 1-833-697-4829 or go to the State Health Department website.

The Sidney Central School District was notified that a 1st grade, 2nd grade and 8th grade student have tested positive for COVID-19. The students have not been on campus since February 26th, Delaware County Health Department conducted an investigation and contact tracing, there will be no change to the instructional model at this time.

Chenango County Public Health reported another death from COVID 19 today, bringing the number up to 39 since the pandemic began.  Chenango County has 17 hospitalized, 187 active cases, 507 are quarantined; they have had 2001 total cases, with 1762 recoveries.

Chenango County, like many other counties, has experienced a rise in COVID 19 deaths, and Chenango County Director of Public Facilities Julie Gates was asked if she could put something together to remember those lost to COVID 19, she told WCDO News what has been decided:

(Julie Gates 1-29-21)

Gates said that in February & March, the lighted ribbon will be displayed on the county Office Building at 5 Court Street in Norwich.

Governor Cuomo recently announced that effective February 1st, participants in higher-risk sports may participate in individual or distanced group training and organized no or low-contact group training, competitions and tournaments.  Delaware County Public Health is advising school districts that they cannot resume high-risk winter sports until the Delaware County's 7-day rolling positivity for coronavirus is at or below 4% & activities must be restricted to individual or distanced group training or organized no or low-contact group training. Delaware County’s rolling 7-day positivity is 5.9% as of Thursday; they reported 10 new COVID cases, with 17 hospitalized, 147 active cases & 319 quarantined.

P.M. News Tuesday 1-26-21

Delaware Valley Humane Society received their figures from the Staff Works Fundraiser that they participated in back in December; Society Director Erin Insinga told WCDO News that this year's effort was unexpectedly successful:

(Erin Insinga 1-26-21)

Insinga said that the money raised will be used for some repairs to the building & for day to day expenses that the shelter faces.

Chenango County Public Health reported that they are up to 1943 total cases since last year, with 23 hospitalized, 215 active cases & 582 quarantined; they've have had 35 deaths & 1676 recoveries.

Delaware County Sheriff's Office announced that a Mount Upton man and woman were arrested at the conclusion of a lengthy investigation into a November 5th trespass at a Town of Walton residence.  On January 22, Deputies arrested 38 year old Harry Weed and 31 year old Ambrosia Ford, both of Mount Upton, for 2nd degree criminal trespass, they were processed and released on appearance tickets for Town of Walton Court at a later date.

Delaware County Sheriff's Deputies responded to the Town of Hamden to investigate alleged violations of an order of protection, the Investigation revealed that 59-year-old Timothy Yeary of Delhi had repeatedly contacted and left voice messages for the protected party.  Deputies located, arrested and charged Yeary with 1 count of criminal contempt; he was issued an appearance ticket for Town of Hamden Court at a later date.

Chenango County Public Health reported 7 news deaths form COVID-19 Thursday, bringing their death toll to 28, they had 36 new cases reported, bringing the total number of cases to 1393. Chenango County has 190 total cases, 15 are hospitalized, and 452 are quarantined.

The Broome County Health Department continues to see an increase in COVID 19 cases, with more than 1100 new cases since start of the New Year. They are up to 9090 cases and 189 deaths from the virus, 58 of the deaths have come since the end of November. The county has had over 7400 recoveries and they are monitoring over 220 people.

Bainbridge Guilford School Superintendent Tim Ryan is holding a Zoom Meeting with parents today, regarding how the school district is dealing with the uptick in Chenango County COVID cases, he told WCDO News that their hybrid model seems to be working well:

(Tim Ryan 1-8-21)

Ryan said that they have had 4 students recently test positive, 2 of those were remote only students & they did not expose anyone in the school itself.

A new session of Congress is underway but the seat for the New York 22nd District in the House of Representatives remains empty. Oswego County Supreme Court Justice Scott DelConte continues to review challenged ballots, the most recent tally had Republican Claudia Tenney with a slim lead over incumbent Democrat Anthony Brindisi, there will be no Representative in the 22nd district until Judge DelConte renders a final decision on the disputed ballots.

State Comptroller Tom DiNapoli is urging New Yorkers to read the fine print for details about fees and expiration dates, and to spend the gift cards in a timely fashion. If gift cards expire, the money would get turned over to the Office of Unclaimed Funds. New Yorkers should visit osc.state.ny.us to see if they are owed money from unused Gift cards or for other reasons. The state currently has 16 Billion Dollars in unclaimed funds.

A.M. NEWS FRIDAY 1-8-21

Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer is demanding President Donald Trump be removed from office immediately following a violent protest in Washington D.C. Wednesday.

(Schumer 1-8-21)

5 people were killed, many were injured & there were over 50 arrests after rioters supporting President Trump breached the US Capitol building to defy the election results as members of congress validated the electoral votes Wednesday.

The Sidney Central School District reported 2 new COVID 19 cases, they report 2 middle school students are presumed positive, they have not been on campus since Monday, January 4th. The Delaware County Health officials have conducted an investigation and the contact tracing has been completed. There will be no change to the instructional model at this time.

Delaware County Public Health reported another death from COVID 19, they have had 16 deaths. they had 24 new cases Thursday, with 5 now hospitalized and 237 quarantined.

Otsego County Department of Health reported 25 new cases of COVID Thursday, they have 16 hospitalized and there were 2 more deaths, bringing the County total to 20.