WCDO Radio News

P.M. NEWS TUESDAY 12-19-23

The United Way of Mid Rural New York has increased their fundraising totals by 12% in the last week alone, as they head for the end of their annual fundraising campaign, according to Executive Director Elizabeth Monaco:

(Elizabeth Monaco 12-19-23)

More information about the annual campaign is available at their Norwich Office at 607-334-8815, or by going to uwmrny.org.

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.

Commerce Chenango announced that there is still time to register for the Leadership Chenango Class for 2024. The Class of 2024 will be facilitated by Melissa Stagnaro, it will kick off with an orientation and two-day retreat in February. The class will meet twice monthly from March to October and conclude with a final class and graduation in November. Tuition is $1,750, the application is available at commercechenango.com, more information is available at (607) 334-1400 or via email at info@chenangony.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.

The Otsego County Sheriff's Office held a public meeting Monday afternoon, Investigators announced that the occupant of 18 Richards Avenue, 60-year-old Desmond Moan, allegedly fired a gun inside his home severing a gas line. NYSEG was called to 24 Richards Avenue around 8 am Saturday after a report of the smell of gas, that was followed by another report at 14 Richards Ave for a similar issue, then 18 Richards Avenue exploded, the technician was uninjured. The Town of Oneonta code enforcement office has waived fees for building permits for those whose homes were damaged in the blast.

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 Governor's Office & the Public Employees Federation and Civil Service Employees Association announced an agreement to award nearly $3 million in backpay to more than 2,100 New York State employees who worked overtime during the COVID-19 pandemic. Starting this week, more than 1,700 PEF members and more than 400 members of CSEA will receive payments for work completed beyond traditional work hours at the height of the pandemic.

The Delaware County Sheriff's Office arrested 38 year old Richard Santiago of Masonville on a bench warrant, issued by the Village of Sidney. Deputies responded to Delaware County Correctional Facility where Richard Santiago was being arraigned on a separate charge. Deputies subsequently arrested 38-year-old Santiago on two active bench warrants issued by the Village of Sidney Court. Santiago was arraigned at Delaware County Central Arraignment Court, released on his own recognizance, and directed to appear in the Village of Sidney Court at a later date to answer for the charges.

The Chenango County Historical Society will also have their annual Holiday Open House Sunday from 10 am. to 4 pm at the Chenango County Historical Society at 45 Rexford St., Norwich.

A.M. NEWS FRIDAY 12-1-23

Sidney Chamber of Commerce Holly Jolly parade tonight, no pre-registration is required to be in the parade. Sidney Chamber of Commerce President Teri Schunk comments:

(Teri Schunk 12-1-23)

Santa will be set up at the Limitless Performing Arts Complex following the Holly Jolly Parade at their new location at 22 River Street.

Governor Hochul announced the annual statewide holiday donation drive to benefit families in need across the state, will begin Today. Donations of new unwrapped toys, coats and school supplies are requested, Drop off locations will be set up locally through December 15th at the Binghamton State Office Building, 44 Hawley Street and the Homer Folks Facility, 28 Hill Street, Oneonta.

P.M. NEWS TUESDAY 11-14-23

Delaware County District Attorney's Office announced that 45 year old Luke Lupo of Walton appeared in Delaware County Court Monday and pleaded guilty to 3rd degree Burglary. Lupo admitted that in April of 2022, he entered a building owned by Herman’s Trailer Sales and Service in Walton, and stole property, he will be sentenced to 5 years of felony probation supervision and ordered to pay restitution to the victim. Sentencing was scheduled for January 16, 2024.

22 year old Dakota Mann of Walton pleaded guilty to Criminal Contempt in Delaware County Court Monday. Mann admitted that he was aware of an order of protection prohibiting him from having contact with the protected party, he had contact with the victim and “engaged in a domestic dispute.” he will be sentenced to 1 year in the Delaware County Correction Facility upon sentencing on November 27th.

The Chenango County Health Department is hosting a COVID-19 vaccine clinic for uninsured and under-insured individuals through the Bridge Access Program. This COVID-19 vaccine clinic is for 18 years of age and older, it will be held November 16th &17th, from 9-11 am and 1-3 pm at 5 Court Street Norwich. Appointments can be made at 607-337-1660.

A.M. NEWS TUESDAY 11-14-23

Governor Kathy Hochul announced that more than $57 million has been awarded to support 238 projects across New York State through the Regional Economic Development Council initiative. Sportsfield Specialties will receive a $500,000 Grant & a $1.5 Million Excelsior Jobs Tax Credit, to expand its manufacturing operations in Delhi, by utilizing vacant property adjacent to its existing site. The proposed project will include a 60,000 square-foot manufacturing plant expansion with modern equipment, a new office complex, mechanical shop and storage, the Total Project Cost will be $27.5 Million.

The State Office of General Services announced an auction of surplus vehicles, highway equipment, and miscellaneous property today. More information is available at ogs.ny.gov/nysstore, The auction will be Today, starting at 9:30 am. at State Police Troop C headquarters on State Route 7.

The Chenango County Historical Society has will hold their annual meeting & they will combine that meeting with the 25th anniversary of the Guilford Historical Society beginning at 5:30 pm on Today, at 124 County Road 36 in Guilford. Historical Society Executive Director Jessica Moquin comments:

(Jessica Moquin 11-14-23)

Moquin said that the Guilford Historical Society anniversary celebration includes traditional music performed by Katie Boardman.

P.M. NEWS TUESDAY 10-3-23

State Police announced the arrest of 46 year old Craig Ross Jr., of Ballston Spa, for 1st degree kidnapping. Ross was arraigned & was remanded to the Saratoga County Correctional Facility without bail. Additional charges are anticipated. Ross is accused of kidnapping 9 year old Charlotte Sena Saturday evening as she was riding her bicycle at Moreau Lake State Park State Police located Charlotte last night, she was safe, in good health & was reunited with her family.

The Oneida County Sheriff's Office announced that The driver who was killed in a 1-vehicle crash on Route 8 in Bridgewater has been identified as 36-year-old Edward Cuevas, of Oneonta. Cuevas was driving on State Route 8 at about 8:15 on September 25 when the crash occurred, the cause remains under investigation. Anyone with information is asked to call the Oneida County Sheriff's Office at 315-765-2737.

The Matthews Auto Group announced their 5th Annual Matthews Walk-A-Thon to benefit 10 children's charities in Binghamton, Syracuse, Norwich, & other locations this Saturday, October 7th from 7:30AM to 6:30PM, Spokesperson Kathy Breno told WCDO about the Norwich Walk-A-Thon:

(Kathy Breno 10-3-23)

The Norwich & Vestal Walk-a-thon will be the only in-person events, the rest will be virtual, the Chenango County Child Advocacy Center in Norwich is one of the charities that will benefit from this effort. Walkers can register in advance at MatthewsWalkathon.Com or at Weiler Park on the day of the event. Matthews will distribute up to $150,000 to the charities based on the miles walked and the percentage of votes each charity receives during registration.

The Broome County District Attorney's office announced that DeJoghn Llamas pleaded guilty to Attempted Assault and was sentenced to 7 years in state prison and 5 years of post-release supervision. Llamas admitted that he slashed a 61-year-old woman in the face with a knife during an argument at a Binghamton residence in October of 2022.

A.M. NEWS TUESDAY 10-3-23

9 year old Charlotte Sena, who went missing Saturday evening while on a bike ride at a park, has been found. State Police reported Monday night that the girl was located and in good health and that a suspect is in custody. State Police said they identified an individual as being in the area of the Moreau Lake State Park around the time Charlotte went missing Saturday & the investigation is continuing.

Delaware County Sheriff’s Deputies responded to a 1 car motor vehicle accident with injuries on September 26th, where the vehicle was found to have rolled over and the operator was found to be suspected of operating the vehicle in an intoxicated state. 19 year old Samantha Hanneman of New Jersey was charged with driving while intoxicated with a blood alcohol concentration over .08, Failure to Keep Right, Move from Lane Unsafely, No Seatbelt, and Speed not Reasonable and Prudent. Hanneman was released to a family member on appearance tickets and directed to appear at the Town of Middletown court at a later date to answer the charges.

The Next General Clinton Canoe Regatta Meeting will be held today at General Clinton Park Office, the meeting will start at 6:30 PM.

The Sidney Town Board will hold its Budget Workshop at 6:30 pm this evening. The meeting will be held in the Board Room at the Town Building, located at 44 Grand Street.

P.M. NEWS FRIDAY 8-11-23

Chenango County Sheriff's Office arrested 52 year old Robert Colson of Norwich following a lengthy investigation into the burglary of two Chenango County Gas Stations in late October of 2022. Colson is accused of forcing his way into the establishements and stealing thousands of dollars' worth of tobacco products. The Chenango County District Attorney's Office presented the case to a Grand Jury where Colson was indicted for 3rd degree Burglary, 3rd & 4th Degree Grand Larceny, & 3 counts of criminal mischief. Colson was arrested Monday while he was incarcerated at the Chenango County Correctional Facility on separate charges, he was arraigned in Chenango County Court where he was remanded back to the Chenango County Correctional Facility and scheduled for a later day in court.

Broome County Sheriff's Office announced that State Route 17 Westbound has been cleared & re-opned following a tractoer trailer rollover Thursday afternoon. The highway was closed for several hours for the investigation & clean up, near exit 80 Damascus, No injuries were reported,

The Delaware County fair begins on Monday at the Fairgrounds in Walton, spokesman Jason Craig told WCDO News that a lot of preparation goes into getting the fair ready for thousands to attend & enjoy:

(Jason Craig 8-11-23)

The Delaware County Fair runs from Monday through Saturday the 19th, more information is available at http://delawarecountyfair.org.

Governor Kathy Hochul today announced more than $38.6 million for housing projects across the state . In the Southern Tier, the YWCA of Binghamton and Broome County will receive $6.6 million to develop 38 units in Binghamton in Broome County & the Lisle Avenue Apartments will construct a 4-story building for the residential component and renovate an adjacent building to serve as a childcare center.

The State Comptroller's office concluded an audit of the Morris Central School District recently. The Audit found that The board and district officials did not effectively manage the district's fund balance, overestimating appropriations by an average of $617,000, or 6%, also surplus fund balance exceeded the 4% statutory limit in all 3 of the audited fiscal years by approximately $1.1 million to $2 million and 4 of the district's 10 reserves were not reasonably funded, or were used to pay related expenditures.

A.M. NEWS Friday 8-11-23

Oneonta Emergency crews responded to the report of truck in the Susquehanna River at Exit 14 at lower Main Street, Thursday Afternoon. The truck came off the I-88 Exit Ramp, went through Main Street & went into the river, crews removed the driver at about 5:15 PM, WCDO will have more details as they become available.

Broome County Special Investigations Unit Task Force executed a narcotics search warrant in Endicott, they arrested 34 year old Veronica Mitchell for 3 Counts of Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance, 2 Counts of Criminal Possession of a Weapon & 3 Counts of Criminally Using Drug Paraphernalia, police seized Fentanyl, Methamphetamine, scales, packaging materials, Metal knuckles and a metal knuckle knife, plus $122.00 in cash, Mitchell was taken to Central Arraignment at the Broome County Sheriff’s Correctional Facility.

The 38th Festival of Giants R/C Air show will be held at the Chenango Bridge Airport Today & Tomoorw from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM each day. Many of the largest radio controlled aircraft from all over the East Coast will be participating.

P.M. NEWS TUESDAY 8-1-23

Commerce Chenango's “Taste of Chenango" Event Saturday at the Chenango County Fairgrounds in Norwich went extremely well, according to Commerce Chenango CEO & President Sal Testani:

(Sal Testani 8-1-23)

Testani said that they were hoping to get about 1000 to the event, their estimates suggest that about 3000 people attended the event.

Hospice & Palliative Care of Chenango County has a new fundraiser underway through October, spokesperson Sarah Greene told WCDO News about “100 for Hope”:

(Sarah Greene 8-1-23)

Tickets can be purchased by calling 607-334-3556 or going to their offices at Court Street in Downtown Norwich.

Chenango County Department of Public Health announced a new permanent building at the Chenango County Fairgrounds at 168 East Main Street in Norwich. The new office is next to the Emergency Services Building, it will also serve as a location for other events and activities, such as drive-through shot clinics, rabies clinics, and community educational events. The new structure was placed at the fairground on July 17th. additional information may contact the Chenango County Health Department at (607) 337-1660.

The CDC reports that Pennsylvania is 1st & New York State 2nd for reported cases of tick-borne diseases. The CDC report said that in New York, the most common tick-borne illness is Lyme disease, which can cause flu-like symptoms, joint pain, fatigue, and, if left untreated, severe complications. The CDC suggest that those hiking in wooded areas should be fully clothed with footwear that covers the entire foot, they also suggest using EPA-approved insect repellent on any exposed skin and clothing and follow instructions

A.M. NEWS Tuesday 8-1-23

Delaware County Sheriff's Office announced the arrest 46 year old Renee Bueller of New Kingston for DWI, following an investigation into a motor vehicle accident in the Town of Middletown, where the operator left the scene. Deputies located Bueller, who was charged with DWI, leaving the scene of a property damage accident, moved from lane unsafely, speed not reasonable and prudent and failing to remove debris from a highway. Bueller was subsequently released on appearance tickets and directed to appear at the Town of Middletown court at a later date to answer for the charge.

Sidney Police Department arrested 33 year old Jesse Terry of Unadilla Wednesday, for criminal possession of stolen property, unlawful fleeing a police officer, aggravated unlicensed operation of a motor vehicle, driving while under the influence of drugs & resisting arrest amon other charges. Sidney Police received an alert about a stolen vehicle out of Oneonta, the vehicle was observed at a car wash, with State Police assisting the traffic stop, Terry did not comply and rammed the Sidney Police car, police pursued along West Main Street, the pursuit ended at the Circle Drive Apartments, where Terry hit 1 of the apartment buildings with the vehicle, he fled into an apartment building and was taken into custody, he was treated at the hospital & was later arraigned in the Village of Sidney Court & was remanded to the Delaware County Jail. More charges are pending.

Delaware County District Attorney's Office announced that 41 year old Darren Moscato of Delhi, was arraigned on a sealed indictment in Delaware County Court Monday. The indictment was unsealed, Count One accused Moscato of attempting to endanger the welfare of a child, the other counts accuse him of Attempted Disseminating of Indecent Material to Minors, Engaging in a sexually explicit conversation with a minor with the intention of enticing the child to engage in sexual activity, and for sending explicit pictures to the minor. Moscato was released to the supervision of the Delaware County Probation Department, pending a conference on July 24th.

The Otsego County Fair is scheduled for August 1st through the 6th this year at the fairgrounds in Morris, Fair spokesperson Lisa Jackson told WCDO news about the schedule of activities:

(Lisa Jackson 7-13-23)

More information is available at otsegocountyfair.org.

Delaware County District Attorney's office announced that 58 year old Mark Seeley of Walton, was sentenced to 2 years in the County Jail for Aggravated Harassment and Criminal Contempt. On September 11, 2022, Seeley, threatened several individuals, the Court issued orders of protection for the victims, Seeley violated the orders of protection multiple times. On May 8th, Seeley agreed to a plea deal in County Court, but on May 31st, State Police were contacted by the victims who had discovered that Seeley posted about the victims on social media. Due to the numerous violations the District Attorney’s Office voided the plea & Seeley was sent to jail.

A.M. NEWS THURSDAY 7-13-23

State Police and other law enforcement agencies continue to search the State Route 79 area and continue to maintain a presence searching for a man that may be a threat to himself and others in Chenango Forks. State Police said that the man may be armed, residents from Route 369 to Richards Road were advised to stay inside, keep their doors and vehicles locked. State Route 79 has been re-opened to traffic. The suspect is described as a white male, with dark hair, approximately 6 foot 1 inches tall and 275 pounds, last seen wearing a black shirt, light-colored pants or shorts and may be wearing glasses. Anyone with information should call 911, & should not approach the suspect..

Delaware County Sheriff's Office arrested 51 year old Stacy Coss of Andes for driving while ability is impaired by the use of drugs, and aggravated unlicensed operator. On July 7th, Deputies stopped a motor vehicle in the Town of Andes being operated by Coss, her driving privileges were revoked from a prior DWI and she was operating a motor vehicle in an impaired state. Coss was released on appearance tickets and directed to appear at the Town of Andes court at a later date.

Today is Day 3 of the Delaware County IRT at the Walton High School, Delaware County Director of Planning & Watershed Affairs Shelly Johnson Bennett said that Tuesday was successful, Wednesday was slower & in the coming days there will be plenty of opportunities for people to get free medical, vision, veterinary & dental services:

(Shelly Johnson Bennett 7-12--23)

Johnson Bennett said that today's hours are 8:00 to 4:00, Saturday will be expanded to 8:00 AM to 7:00 PM, Spaying & Neutering of pets requires pre-registration at 607-832-5444, all other services are free and available in a timely fashion.

Congressman Marc Molinaro's constituent service team will hold mobile office hours from 11am to 1pm today at the village of New Berlin Offices. During this event, constituents will be able to connect with representatives from Rep. Molinaro's office to share comments and resolve issues they are having with federal agencies like the VA, IRS, and Social Security Administration.

P.M. NEWS TUESDAY 6-27-23

Today is Primary Day, the race with a lot of local interest is the Delaware County Republican Party Primary for the nomination for District Attorney. Long time area Attorney Joe Ermeti faces current Acting County District Attorney Shawn Smith for the County Republican endorsement. Smith already has the Conservative party nomination & will be on the ballot for Delaware County District Attorney in the November General Election.

The Broome County District Attorney's office announced that 51 year old David Rexer of Endicott was found guilty of conspiracy by a jury in Broome county Court recently. Rexer was found guilty of conspiring with another person to commit arson on an Endicott building last year, however the person that Rexer attempted to conspire with was an undercover police officer. Rexer has a prior conviction for 3rd degree Rape and will be sentenced to 1/13 to 4 years in jail on September 23rd.

The Oxford Fire Department was dispatched to a structure Friday early Friday morning. 1 silo was destroyed, an adjacent was was saved by firefighters from several other area fire departments, no injuries to firefighters were reported, the property was vacant at the time of the blaze. The Chenango County Office of Emergency Services is investigating the cause of the fire.

Delaware County will host an Innovative Readiness Training mission, or "IRT" which will be bringing medical professionals to the Walton High School July 11th through the 19th, providing free Medical, Dental & Veterinary services. Director of Delaware County Planning & Watershed Affairs, Shelly Johnson-Bennett told WCDO News that they will need some volunteers for a variety of functions at the event:

(Shelly Johnson-Bennett 6-27-23)

the link to volunteer is available at delawareopportunities.org, WCDO will air the full interview with Shelly Johnson-Bennett on Wednesday night July 5th following the 6:00 PM news.

A.M. NEWS Tuesday 6-27-23

State Police arrested 53 year old Robert Covello of Endwell, after they executed a search warrant regarding an unlawful surveillance investigation. While at Covello’s residence, Investigators observed items indicative of narcotics sales and use, suspected cocaine, drug paraphernalia and a large amount of U.S. currency was seized. Covello has been charged with Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance with intent to sell, Criminal Use of Drug Paraphernalia, Unlawful Surveillance & Disseminating Unlawful Surveillance Images. Covello was processed & was transported to the Broome County Central Arraignment and Processing.

Commerce Chenango announced that The Red Roof Inn is hosting the next Business After Hours Program today from 4:30 to 6:30 PM. The Red Roof Inn is at 75 North Broad Street in Norwich, they will show the renovations to Commerce Chenango’s members. The Red Roof Inn was established in 2019 at the former Howard Johnson site in Norwich.

P.M. NEWS TUESDAY 6-13-23

The Cortland County Sheriff's Department had issued an Amber Alert for 2 small children taken by their father Sunday night. The alert was canceled after a couple of hours, the children, Anthony & Aaliyah Bowman were found safe this morning, the investigation is ongoing, and more details may be released later today.

Afton residents and business owners John & Judy Hinman announced that they have purchased the land & the Carriage house, at the site of the former Silo Restaurant on Moran Road in Greene, Judy Hinman told WCDO news of their plans:

(Judy Hinman 6-13-23)

Hinman said that the closing is expected to wrap up shortly with former owner Gary Kurz, who operated the restaurant for decades prior to the November 2021 fire that destroyed the building.

Delaware County District Attorney's Office announced that 43 year old Nicholas Marte of Mount Upton pleaded guilty to Attempted Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance with Intent to Sell, in Delaware County Court Monday. On April 6, 2022, Hancock Police responded to a 911 call, Marte was found passed out in his vehicle at the Valero Parking lot, police found multiple used needles and several glassine envelopes containing heroin. Marte pleaded guilty to the Attempted Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance, he will be sentenced to a 5-year term of probation with the special condition that he successfully completes a Drug Treatment Court Program, if he fails to complete the program or violates the terms of his probation, he will be re-sentenced to state prison.

A.M. NEWS Tuesday 6-13-23

The Chenango County Sheriff's Office Detectives Division arrested 29 year old Cory Brazee of Utica for stealing a motorcycle from a business in the Village of Sherburne. Brazee was charged with 3rd Degree Grand Larceny & 5th degree Conspiracy, he was transported back to Chenango County, where he was processed and released on an appearance ticket, to appear in the Village of Sherburne Court at a later date.

Delaware County Sheriff’s Deputies were dispatched to a reported 2 car motor vehicle collision at the intersection of Thompson Hollow Road and Jensen Road in the Town of Middletown Monday. Initial reports stated that 1 vehicle was on fire and the 2nd vehicle contained an entrapped person within. 2 good Samaritans heard the collision and went to the scene, they were able to extinguish the fire and provide first aid to both drivers until the arrival of first responders. 41 year old John Todd of Roxbury, was pronounced deceased at the scene, 65 year old Daniel Plummer of East Branch was extricated, he was airlifted to Albany Medical Center by Life Net and is currently in critical condition. The Sheriff’s Accident Reconstruction Unit responded to the scene to investigate the cause of the accident,

The State Department of Labor released preliminary local area unemployment rates for April. The State's area unemployment decreased 1/10th to 4.0% in April, Chenango County had 2.5% unemployment in April, Delaware County had 2.9% & Otsego County had 2.8%.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s National enforcement effort is underway, it coincides with the Memorial Day holiday, & runs until June 4th, According to the Traffic Safety Administration, in 2021 there were 11,813 unbuckled passenger vehicle occupants killed in crashes in the United States, 57% of passenger vehicle occupants killed at night were not wearing their seat belts. Participating law enforcement agencies will be taking a no-excuses approach to seat belt law enforcement, for more information, go to NHTSA.gov/ciot.

A.M. NEWS Tuesday 5-23-23

The Broome County Sheriff’s Office announced A Public Safety Town Halls taking place in Windsor. Sheriff Fred Akshar, Undersheriff Sammy Davis, and other members of the Sheriff's Office will be on hand to discuss public safety issues, answer questions, The Windsor Public Safety Town Hall will take place from 6:00pm – 7:30pm at the Windsor Central High School Cafeteria.

Governor Kathy Hochul announced more than $112.9 million has been awarded to 70 projects through the Restore New York Communities Initiative. The City of Binghamton will be awarded $2 million for the Crowley Factory Lofts project. The project, located at 149 and 135 Conklin Avenue, will restore the waterfront building's second and third floors with 48 one and two-bedroom market rate housing units. The ground floor will be flexible commercial space. Also, the City of Norwich will receive $2 million for the Norwich Hotel project, to repurpose an existing vacant, unoccupied building at 14-16 South Broad Street into a 45-room boutique hotel.

P.M. NEWS MONDAY 3-6-23

Johnson City Police were called Sunday afternoon to the Oakdale Commons to check the welfare of a male subject who was believed to be intoxicated and was attempting to break into vehicles. 20-year-old Rajee Almashni of Binghamton is accused of trying to flee a police officer in a vehicle at a high rate of speed, striking 72 year old Elizabeth Atkinson of Johnson City. Additional officers responded & Almashni's vehicle became disabled and he fled on foot, he was located and was taken into custody. Atkinson was taken to Wilson Hospital where she succumbed to her injuries. Almashni was charged with DWI, 2nd degree murder, Vehicular manslaughter, Leaving the scene of a fatal motor vehicle accident, Unlawful fleeing, Reckless endangerment & Grand Larceny, Almashni is being held at Broome County central arraignment awaiting processing

A Chenango County Grand Jury indicted 50-year-old Andrew Frank Jr. on several charges for a series of commercial break-ins in downtown Sherburne in November & December of last year. Frank and 49-year-old Rena Jones were arrested by the Chenango County Sheriff's Office on December 7, Frank was indicted on 3 counts of 3rd degree burglary, 3 counts of criminal mischief, & 1 count of attempt burglary, and 3 counts of petty larceny. Jones has been indicted with for 3rd degree burglary, for her role in 1 of the burglaries. Frank was arraigned in court and remanded to the Chenango County Correctional Facility with no bail. Rena was released on an appearance ticket for Village of Sherburne Court.

The Chenango County Traffic Safety Board & NBT Insurance are sponsoring a poster contest for school aged children in Chenango County, to raise awareness about impaired driving. Interested students will participate in 3 categories. grades K to 4, Middle school & High School. the deadline to submit a poster is March 21st. entry forms are available at the lobby of the Chenango County Office Building, or at the Chenango County Sheriff's Office.

A.M. NEWS Monday 3-6-23

The Broome County District Attorney's Office announced that Benjamin Forestier pleaded guilty to felony Aggravated Family Offense, for violating an Order of Protection which prohibited him from having contact with a 32-year-old woman. Forestier ignored the order and sent several harassing text messages to her, he had previously been convicted of Criminal Mischief for damaging the property of the same victim in 2021 & he has a prior felony conviction for Criminal Possession of a Weapon from 2019. Forestier will spend 1.5 to 3 years in state prison, when sentenced at a later date.

Broome County Sheriff’s Deputies responded to a motor vehicle accident on Ouaquaga Road in the Town of Colesville Thursday. 35-year-old Tina Harb of Harpursville lost control of her car and collided with a car that was parked off the roadway, her 9-year-old daughter was in the car during the accident and sustained minor injuries & she was taken to Wilson Hospital. Harb displayed several signs of impairment, she had alcoholic beverages in her vehicle and her purse, plus she refused a field sobriety test and was charged with felony DWI, Aggravated Driving While Intoxicated With a Child, Endangering the Welfare of a Child plus other charges, she was released on an appearance ticket and will return to the Town of Colesville Court at a later date.

Broome County Sheriff Fred Akshar announced this afternoon the arrests of 3 inmates for having contraband in their housing pods at the Broome County Sheriff’s Correctional Facility this week. Investigators recovered crack cocaine, synthetic cannabis, & suboxone strips, they arrested 36 year old Dreyshawn McDonald for Criminal Possession Controlled Substance & Promoting Prison Contraband, 41 year old Ryan Carney of Endicott for Promoting Prison Contraband & 35 year old Paul reed of Endicott for Promoting Prison Contraband. This sweep was the latest in a series of investigations into narcotics, drug and contraband smuggling at the Correctional Facility, which have led to 9 arrests and dozens of charges since the beginning of the year.

The Broome County District Attorney’s Office announced that 37 year old Farrah Singleton of the Bronx, pleaded guilty in Broome County Court today to 3rd degree Burglary. Singleton admitted that he unlawfully a residence at 226 Court Street in Binghamton and stole property on September 1st 2021, he was arrested a week later by Binghamton Police, he will serve 2 1/2 to 5 years in prison when sentenced on May 4.

ACHIEVE announced that they will be breaking ground at 96-100 East Main Street in Norwich, on March 10th. ACHIEVE's Board of Directors voted to move their facility from their current location near the Canasawacta Country Club golf course down to former CWS Plant 5 building in Norwich. More information is available at achieveny.org.

Delaware County Public Health Services and Friends of Recovery- Delaware Otsego will be sponsoring a Recovery Coach Academy, Ethical Considerations & Medicated Supported Recovery Training March 27th, 2023 – April 1st, from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM in Delhi The training is designed for individuals involved in the recovery initiation of others and/or in sustained recovery themselves who want to become a personal guide and mentor for people seeking or already in recovery. more information or registration is available by calling Kyle LaFever by phone at (607) 267-4435 or by email at Kyle@friendsofrecoverydo.org. The deadline to register is March 20th.

The Binghamton Rumble Ponies announced that tickets are now on sale for the “Meet the Ponies” annual dinner on Tuesday, April 4th at the Downtown Holiday Inn in Binghamton. Tickets are available to purchase until April 1st online at bingrp.com, by calling 607.722.FUNN, or at Mirabito Stadium, The Rumble Ponies open the 2023 season on the road against the Portland Sea Dogs on Thursday April 6th, with the home opener on Tuesday, April 11th against the Somerset Patriots at 6:35 PM.

A.M. NEWS THURSDAY 3-2-23

The Otsego County Sheriff's Office arrested 34 year old Ashley Williams of Laurens on 2 counts of Torturing or Injuring Animals/Failure to Provide Sustenance. Williams was arrested following an investigation into a report of loose horses in the road in the Town of Laurens on December 11th of last year. During the course of the investigation, it was found that Williams did not provided proper care for her animals, Williams was issued an appearance ticket returnable to the Town of Laurens Court for a later date.

The Otsego County Sheriff's Office arrested 20 year old Colin Leonard of Otego following an investigation of a personal injury motor vehicle accident in the Town of Oneonta. Leonard was charged with Driving While Intoxicated, Driving on the shoulder, Failure to keep right, Drivers view obstructed, and speed not reasonable & prudent among several other charges, he was issued appearance tickets returnable to the Town of Oneonta Court at a later date.

Commerce Chenango's Annual Economic Outlook Breakfast will be held this morning at 7:30 at the Canasawacta Country Club in Norwich. Key Note Speaker will be Ken Entenmann of NBT Bank, more information is available at commercechenango.com

P.M. NEWS FRIDAY 2-24-23

Otsego County Sheriff's Office arrested 46 year old Sallie Cherry of Texas following an investigation in the Town of Hartwick on February 19th. Cherry was charged with Criminal Possession of a Firearm, Unlawful Possession of Certain Ammunition Feeding Devices, Cherry was released on an Appearance Ticket returnable to the Hartwick Town Court at a later date.

The Chenango Memorial Hospital Emergency Room and walk in portions of the Hospital recently celebrated their 1st Anniversary, Dr. Kenneth Herman is the Emergency Department Medical Director & he told WCDO News how the upgrades have been received:

(Dr. Kenneth Herman 2-24-23)

Also, UHS Chenango Memorial was recently awarded a $20 Million state grant, to redesign primary and specialty care services over the next 5 years. Hospital officials said that they will be creating a new Infusion Center, dedicated Women’s Imaging Suite and Pre-Admission Testing Center as well as make other strategic investments in hospital-based services.

A Red Cross Blood Drive is being held in Oneonta this afternoon, the drive will be on until 6:00 PM at the Quality Inn, on State Highway 23. Appointments can be made with the Red Cross Blood Donor App, at  RedCrossBlood.org, or by calling 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767)

A.M. NEWS FRIDAY 2-24-23

Chenango County Sheriff's Office arrested 43 year old Hayes Cutting Jr of Bainbridge, for 2nd degree assault, Tampering with Physical Evidence, unlawfully fleeing a police officer and resisting arrest, following the investigation into the assault of Norwich Police Officer with a motor vehicle on Monday in Norwich, while attempting to take Cutting into custody on an active warrant. State Police responded to the Town of Oneonta after a tip that Cutting was there, Cutting was found hiding in the ceiling of a building, he was held at the Chenango County Correctional Facility on a State Parole Warrant and will appear in the Town of Norwich Court for the new charges. The passenger in Cutting's vehicle, Jesse Dann, had an unrelated warrant out for his arrest and was taken into custody.

The Broome County Special Investigations Unit Task Force, and local Police agencies, arrested 32 year old Cody Dickson of the Town of Maine man on 17 charges. The Task Force executed a search warrant at 383 Kolb Road, they seized over $10,000 in methamphetamine, plus weapons, high capacity magazines and ammunition. Dickson was charged with Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance & Criminal Possession of a Weapon, plus Criminal Possession of Stolen Property & Criminally Using Drug Paraphernalia, Dickson faces court action shortly.

Broome County District Attorney Mike Korchack announced that 26-year-old Kout Akol of Binghamton was sentenced for Manslaughter, Criminal Possession of a weapon, tampering with physical evidence, and endangering the welfare of a child, in Broome County Court, for the fatal stabbing of 27-year-old Takecia Mitchell in Binghamton, Akol was sentenced to 25 years in state prison, followed by 5 years of post-release Supervision.

The Tri-County Seniors will hold an Open House today at their new location in the AO Fox Tri-Town Campus building at 43 Pearl Street in Sidney. The Open House runs from 3:00 - 5:00 pm, more information is available at the Tri-County Senior Center Facebook Page.

The Broome County Sheriff’s Office Warrants Division arrested 23 year old Haven Strong of Binghamton, he is accused of knowingly entering the Broome County Sheriff’s Correctional Facility with a quantity of a controlled substance. Strong was charged with 1 count each of Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance & Promoting Prison Contraband in the 1st Degree. Strong was processed for arrest and remains in the custody of the Broome County Sheriff’s Correctional Facility.

The State Department of Labor today released preliminary local area unemployment rates for December 2022. The State's seasonally adjusted unemployment held constant at 4.3% in December, Locally, Chenango County had 3% Unemployment, Delaware County 3.3% and Otsego County 3.2%.

The State Department of Public Service and the DPS Consumer Advocate, will hold a virtual public forum on Tuesday, January 31, and in-person public forums, including one on Wednesday, February 8th In the Binghamton State Office Building at 44 Hawley Street from 1:00 to 3:00 PM and 6:00 to 8:00 PM to receive public comments regarding NYSEG. The forums have been set up after multiple complaints of spikes in billing by NYSEG & sister Company Rochester gas & Electric last year, and the inability to reach the companies’ customer service representatives by telephone without substantial delay. Public comments can also be made at the DPS’ toll-free line at 1-800-335-2120.

Delaware County Sheriff’s Deputies responded Friday to a 911 call for a 1 car motor vehicle accident on County Highway 44 in the Town of Sidney. The driver was identified as Amber Astrologo, who had a suspended driver’s license due to insurance not in effect. Deputies subsequently arrested Astrologo for Aggravated Unlicensed Operator and Speed not Reasonable and Prudent. Astrologo was then directed to appear in the Town of Sidney Court at a later date to answer for said charges.

A.M. NEWS TUESDAY 1-24-23

The New York State Department of Health’s Weekly Influenza Surveillance Report shows that the number of flu cases declined 50 percent from 14,656 to 7,373 for the week ending January 14th, the virus remains widespread across the State for the 15th consecutive week. The Department also announced two additional pediatric deaths in New York, bringing the total to eight so far this season. The Department's report, shows a total of 300,907 influenza cases reported to date in New York.

P.M. NEWS FRIDAY 1-6-23

The Chenango United Way and the United Way of Delaware and Otsego Counties announced that the 2 organizations have officially combined as of January 1st, as the United Way of Mid Rural New York, Incorporated.  Executive Director Elizabeth Monaco explains:

(Elizabeth Monaco 1-6-23)

Monaco said that the United Way of Madison County merger process should be finalized in April, & they will be combined with Chenango Delaware & Otsego Counties under the United Way of Mid Rural New York name. More information is available at 607-334-8815

The Tioga County Sheriff's Office responded to a residence on Day Hollow Road in the Town of Owego after receiving a call requesting to check the welfare of 78 year-old Phyllis Kvassay, Deputies located her deceased, they also encountered her son, 33 year-old son James Kvassay inside of the residence, he was arrested for 2nd degree murder for allegedly causing the death of his mother. James Kvassay was arraigned and was remanded to the Tioga County Jail without bail. The investigation is still ongoing at this time.

The State Department of Health updated New Yorkers on the XBB.1.5 variant, which now makes up over 50% of COVID-19 cases in New York. Early studies indicate that XBB.1.5 is able to spread more rapidly than other currently circulating variants, there is no clear evidence of significant changes to virulence or severity of disease, the Department reminds all New Yorkers to take precautions, get vaccinated & get booster shots, and more information is available at coronavirus.health.ny.gov/covid-19-variant-data.

A.M. NEWS Friday 1-6-23

The Norwich Fire Department responded to a fire in the basement of St. Paul's Catholic Church on Pleasant Street Tuesday morning. Norwich Fire Department Chief Jan Papelino told WCDO NEws that the firewas started by a defective Dehumidifier in the basement, a church employee spotted the issue & called the Fire Department. Several other fire departments were called to the scene, Smaoke & Water damage was reported with heavy soot throughout the building, No injuries were reported, Chief Papelino said that the church will be closed for several weeks for clean up.

The Delaware County Sheriff's Office arrested 68-year-old Jeffrey Hall of Treadwell, after Deputies observed a vehicle fail to obey a traffic control device in the Village of Delhi. Deputies conducted a traffic stop, Hall's Registration was suspended, his driver’s license was revoked , Hall was charged with Aggravated Unlicensed Operation of a Motor Vehicle, operating a Motor Vehicle While Registration is Suspended, Unlicensed Operator and Failure to Obey a Traffic Control Device, Hall was released on tickets for the Town of Delhi Court at a later date.

Delaware County Sheriff's Office arrested 23 year old Damien Croley of Downsville, Deputies were patrolling on State Highway 206 in the Town of Colchester when they received a license plate reader alert on a vehicle with a Suspended Registration, they conducted a traffic stop, Croley’s registration was suspended, he was charged with Operating a Motor Vehicle with a Suspended/Revoked Registration, he was released and is scheduled to appear in the Town of Colchester Court at a later date.

The Broome County Sheriff's Office arrested 34 year old Bradley Law of Harpursville in connection with a hit-and-run motor vehicle accident involving a pickup truck fatally striking Brennan Loveless on a bicycle on State Route 7 in the Town of Colesville on Sunday at 5:30pm. Law was charged with Criminally Negligent homicide & leaving the scene of a fatal motor vehicle accident, he was taken to Broome County Central Processing last night & was remanded to the Broome County Jail Without Bail. Loveless was a student at the Harpursville Central School District, where their Crisis Response Team will be available for grieving students.

The Chenango County Sheriff's Office arrested 37 year old Nicholas Visser of Port Crane for 3rd degree Burglary, 3rd degree Grand Larceny & Conspiracy, following an investigation of a reported Burglary in the Town of Greene. Visser & 2 unknown male suspects allegedly entered a building on private property & stole nearly $40,000 in property, most of the stolen property was recovered at Visser's property in the Town of Port Crane. Visser was processed and released on an appearance ticket. Visser is to appear in the Town of Greene Court at a later date. The Sheriff’s Office was assisted with the incident by the Broome County Sheriff's Office.

The Otsego County Sheriff's Office arrested 29 year old Ryan Chesebro of Edmeston following a traffic stop on December 26th in the Town of Burlington. Chesebro was charged with Aggravated Unlicensed Operation of a motor vehicle for allegedly operating a motor vehicle on a public highway with a suspended license, he was issued appearance tickets for Burlington Town Court at a later date.