WCDO Radio News

The Norwich Girls Softball will be run by the Norwich YMCA this year, instead of by the Little League, Spokesperson Danielle Ryan said that they will be able to charge only $10, per player interested, and they hope to get a lot more participation & teams playing:

(Danielle Ryan 2-28-26)

Ryan said that the Registration for the Norwich Youth Softball Organization will run through March 13th, the registration & more information is available at norwichymca.com.

A.M. NEWS TUESDAY 2-24-26

The Broome County Sheriff's office arrested 61 year old MD Omar Faruk and 39 year old Mohammad Rahman for Criminal Tax Fraud, Possession or Transport of Unstamped or Unlawfully Stamped Cigarettes following an investigation into the illegal sales of cigarettes, vapes and marijuana in the Town of Colesville. On February 12th, the Sheriff’s Office, the Special Investigations Unit Task Force & the Broome County Health Department conducted a flavored nicotine vape compliance check at the Empire Plaza gas station, a search warrant uncovered illicit flavored nicotine vapes, marijuana products, untaxed cigarettes and $18,346 in Cash. Faruk was released with an appearance ticket to the Town of Colesville Court, Rahman was turned over to U.S. Border Patrol, as he had failed to appear for immigration proceedings.

Chenango Health Network & Bassett Medical Center Research Institute, are calling on residents of Norwich and Sherburne to participate in a Community Health Survey, Kimberly Lorraine of the Chenango Health Network explains:

(Kimberly Lorraine 2-23-26)

The results will be used to develop and evaluate future diabetes prevention efforts. The deadline is February 28th, For more information, visit chenangohealth.org or call 607 337-4171.

Commerce Chenango's next Economic Outlook Breakfast will be held today at the Northeast Classic Car Museum on Rexford Street in Norwich. The keynote speaker will be Ken Entenmann, chief investment officer at NBT Bank, the event begins at 8:30 AM.

Chenango Health Network & Bassett Medical Center Research Institute, are calling on residents of Norwich and Sherburne to participate in a Community Health Survey, which is designed to gather comprehensive, confidential information to assess the community’s health status and needs. Kimberly Lorraine of the Chenango Health Network explains:

(Kimberly Lorraine 1-21-26)

The results will be used to develop and evaluate future diabetes prevention efforts. The survey is now open until February 28th, For more information, visit chenangohealth.org or contact Kimberly Lorraine at 607 337-4171or kimberly@chenangohealth.org.

The Binghamton Rumble Ponies announced that Michael Collins takes over as the 19th manager in Binghamton team history. The Rumble Ponies open the 2026 season on the road against the New Hampshire Fisher Cats on Friday, April 3. The Ponies' home opener is on Tuesday, April 7 against the Somerset Patriots at 6:07 pm. Season tickets, flex booklets, and ballpark passes are currently on sale at Mirabito Stadium, or bingrp.com.

A.M. NEWS WEDNESDAY 1-21-26

The Broome County Sheriff’s Office released the autopsy findings following the death of Chelsey Davis of Port Dickinson that occurred shortly after entering the Broome County Correctional Facility on October 8th. Davis’ cause of death was listed as “Chronic Alcohol Use with Hepatic Cirrhosis,” with contributing factors listed as “hemorrhaging pancreas and heart disease. The toxicology report found no alcohol or controlled substances in her system at the time of her death. Davis was remanded to the Correctional Facility by the Town of Chenango Court., after booking procedures, she received a full medical and substance abuse screening with Correctional Facility medical staff before being housed in the Medical Unit. Over the next several hours, Davis was seen by medical staff 2 additional times, she was not exhibiting any issues, 20 minutes after the third visit with medical staff, Davis experienced a medical emergency, staff administered CPR and a Defibrillator but were unable to revive her.

The Series "Her Health Matters" continues today with a focus on Nutrition and Metabolism, with Andrea Bryan, who is a clinical dietitian at UHS Chenango Memorial Hospital, the discussion will be held at the Canasawacta Country Club, in Norwich, at 6:00 PM. For more information on UHS Chenango Memorial’s Her Health Matters Series, call (607) 337-4510.

P.M. NEWS MONDAY 12-8-25

A Chenango County Grand Jury indicted Richard Clemons on multiple charges for alleged sex crimes involving a young child. The indictment charges Clemons with 2 counts of 2nd-degree rape, multiple counts of promoting a sexual performance by a child, possessing a sexual performance by a child, tampering with physical evidence, forcible touching and sexual abuse. The crimes were reported in the City of Norwich in mid-to-late October.

Local Residents have access to an expanded range of transportation services, from the Get-there program, helping people to get to a variety of places, Spokesman Stan Varghese explains:

(State Varghese 12-8-25)

People can call the Get-there call center at (855) 373-4040 Monday through Friday from 7 am. to 5:30 pm. to get help securing rides, For more information about Get-there, visit the Rural Health Network of SCNY website at rhnscny.org.

A.M. NEWS MONDAY 12-8-25

Governor Kathy Hochul signed legislation that enhanced real property tax exemptions for Seniors. The law allows localities to provide a property tax exemption for senior citizens who meet the income eligibility limits, up to 65% of the assessed valuation of their properties, the maximum percentage of exemption local governments have been able to offer senior citizens was set at 50% and has not been raised in decades, which could translate into savings of up to $300 annually for the average senior.

Governor Hochul signed legislation Thursday that will require health insurance providers to offer lung cancer screenings to patients at no cost. The legislation would also require providers to offer follow-up screenings or other diagnostic services. Almost 14,000 New Yorkers are diagnosed with lung cancer and about 7,400 die from this disease each year.

P.M. NEWS TUESDAY 12-2-25

Country Club Auto Group in Oneonta presented a check for $10,000 to Friends of Bassett Healthcare Network on November 21 after dedicating a portion of their October sales to the Bassett Cancer Institute Expansion Initiative. Tom Armao presented the check at FoxCare Center's cancer clinic & he told WCDO News why they donated:

(Tom Armao 12-2-25)

Learn more about Bassett Healthcare Network's Bassett Cancer Institute expansion initiative by visiting bassett.org/MovingForward.

The State Department of Health is alerting the public to an increase in measles cases in parts of the state. To date, there 35 total cases , with 16 in Upstate Counties, New Yorkers are urged to be up to date on their measles, mumps and rubella vaccines. Measles is a highly contagious, serious respiratory disease that causes rash and fever. More information can be found at health.ny.gov.

39 year old Michael Davis pleaded guilty in Broome County Court to 1st Degree Assault stemming from a violent attack, on October 22, where Davis acted with the intent to cause serious physical injury to another individual by means of am unidentified instrument, Davis will serve 7 years in state prison, followed by 5 years of post-release supervision, Davis is scheduled to be sentenced in Broome County Court on March 3, 2026.

The Chenango Arts Council will host the "Night Before Christmas" free movie & Popcorn event tonight at 7:00 PM, the Tinsel-Town Free movie will be held on the 9th with "It's a Wonderful Life, and the 16th with "Scrooge" all moviees will be at the Martin W. Kappel Theater in downtown Norwich.

P.M. NEWS WEDNESDAY 9-3-25

Chenango County Sheriff's Office arrested 49 year old Christopher Prosser of North Norwich for Disseminating indecent material to minor’s. Prosser is a registered sex offender, a complaint was filed that he was having a sexually motivated conversation with a teenaged female, while using an alias. Investigators discovered that Prosser sent a nude photo of himself and solicited the minor to do the same, he also made arrangements to meet up with the female for sexual relations. Prosser was taken into custody at his home without incident and transported to the Chenango County Sheriff’s Office for processing, he was arraigned & was held on $15,000 cash bond.

Otsego County Sheriff's Office arrested 37 year old Nicolas Martinez of Milford has been arrested for Offering a False Instrument for Filing. Martinez was charged following an investigation into information he provided on paperwork submitted to the Otsego County Civil Office, a background investigation in to Martinez's pistol permit application, found that he intentionally failed to disclose sensitive information required by law for the application, he was processed and released with an Appearance Ticket returnable to the Town of Middlefield Court at a later date.

A.M. NEWS Wednesday 9-3-25

Bassett Healthcare Network's FoxCare Center is hosting a blood drive with the American Red Cross today, from 12:00 Noon to 5:00 PM, in Conference Room 1 at FoxCare Center in Oneonta. Appointments are available by calling 1-800-RED-CROSS, visiting redcrossblood.org, or using the American Red Cross Blood Donor App.

The Peila View Farms in Oxford announced that they will hold their annual Autumn Family Fun will be held on September 20th & 21st this year, in conjunction with the state Health Department. More information is available at 607-821-0707 extension 2942.

Residents in Broome, Chenango, Delaware and Otsego Counties have access to an expanded range of transportation services, thanks to the Getthere program, providing rides to medical appointments,emergency food access, and employment. Getthere is a program of the Rural Health Network of South Central New York, more information is available at (855) 373-4040 or rhnscny.org.

A.M. NEWS Monday 5-19-25

State Police is enhancing its approach to investigating animal cruelty through a new partnership with the State Animal Protection Federation. More than 200 Troopers and Investigators will receive advanced instruction on identifying and responding to animal cruelty cases so that they will be better equipped to detect, investigate, and document cruelty cases, Enhance collaboration with local law enforcement, animal welfare organizations, and prosecutors and it will allow for a more efficient response to these complex investigations.

The State Health Department announced that there are 7 cases of Measles in the state currently, 3 in New York City and 4 in the upstate counties. Measles can spread quickly among children, complications include pneumonia, encephalitis, hospitalization, and death, New Yorkers are urged to get vaccinated if they haven't already received a vaccine. A person with measles can pass it to others from 4 days before a rash appears through the 4th day after the rash appears. More information is available at CDC.gov, or by contacting your county public health department.

NBT Bancorp Inc. announced that it completed the merger of Evans Bancorp, Inc. last week, followed by a core systems conversion over the weekend. The Merger has extended the NBT Bank branch network into the Western Region of New York with the addition of 14 banking offices, NBT Bank now has 175 branches across 7 states.

The Chenango County Sheriff’s Office arrested 46 year old David Burkholder of Oxford for Failure to Notify Law Enforcement of an Address Change, Burkholder is a level 1 convicted sex offender and failed to register his new address within 10 days of his move. Burkholder was arraigned and was remanded to the Chenango County Jail with no bail. Burkholder is to appear in the Town of Norwich Court at a later date.

P.M. NEWS WEDNESDAY 5-7-25

The Department of Justice announced the results of Operation Restore Justice, which resulted in the rescue of 115 children and the arrests of 205 offenders in the nationwide crackdown. The coordinated effort was executed over the course of five days by all 55 FBI field offices. Locally, Jerry Butler of Walton was charged, he is accused of using a social messaging application to request and receive sexually explicit content from a minor, he is believed to be involved in the "764" network, whose members seek to corrupt and exploit vulnerable populations, including minors, He faces at least 15 years in prison. The Department urges the public to report suspected exploitation of a child through their tip-line at 1-800-CALL-FBI, at tips.fbi.gov, or by calling your local FBI field office.

The Chenango County Historical Society & the Chenango County Historian’s Office are collaborating on “An America250 Conversation.” and they will be seeking public input on how the County should celebrate America's 250th anniversary next year, Society Executive Director Jessica Moquin explains:

(Jessica Moquin 5-7-25)

The next community dialogue will take place from 6:00 to 8:00 PM on May 29 at the SUNY Morrisville Norwich Campus at 20 Conkey Ave. Registration is encouraged by emailing "info@chenangohistorical.org".

CoreLife Eatery, which operates restaurants throughout New York, Pennsylvania, Ohio, Illinois, and Kentucky, will pay $7,809,373 to resolve allegations that it violated the False Claims Act by falsely certifying its eligibility for a Restaurant Revitalization Fund grant, when it knew or should have known that it operated too many locations to qualify. CoreLife Eatery Admits in Federal Court to Operating Too Many Restaurants to Qualify for the Restaurant Revitalization Fund, they have 29 locations, many located in Upstate locations.

A.M. NEWS Wednesday 5-7-25

The Oneonta Common Council voted 5 to 3 against the proposal to sell 27 Market Street to Rehabilitation Support Services for a mixed use facility to be built on the lot on Market Street. Plans had called for a multi story facility to house businesses & apartments, with some housing units dedicated to RSS clients, they provide community-based mental health and substance abuse services.

Bassett Healthcare Network's FoxCare Center is hosting a blood drive with the American Red Cross TODAY. The Blood drive will be held from 12:00 Noon to 5:00 PM at Conference Room 1 at FoxCare Center in Oneonta, Appointments may be made by calling 1-800-RED-CROSS (1-800-733-2767), visiting www.redcrossblood.org, or using the American Red Cross Blood Donor App.

24 year old Michael Bush of Sidney was arrested by the Chenango County Sheriff’s Office on April 23rd in the Town of North Norwich. Bush was arrested after a brief pursuit through 3 townships on a motorcycle, passing vehicles in a no-passing zone and failing to stop at a stop sign. Deputies initiated a traffic stop and Bush failed to comply, his motorcycle malfunctioned in Sherburne & he was taken into custody, he was found to possess methamphetamine. Bush was charged with Unlawful Fleeing a Police Officer in a Motor Vehicle, Reckless Endangerment, Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance, Aggravated Unlicensed Operation of a Motor Vehicle among other charges, he was transported to the Chenango County Sheriff's Office & he was released on appearance tickets to appear in the Town of North Norwich Court at a later date.

Bassett Healthcare Network and the Oneonta Family YMCA announced they are extending their lease agreement at FoxCare Center in Oneonta for another 3 years for the Y Specialty Fitness. Bassett Director of Public Relations Gabby Argo said that the partnership is the classic "Win Win" situation:

(Gabby Argo 4-29-25)

Gym membership at the FoxCare Center location has increased since June 2023, A.O. Fox Hospital continues to operate outpatient cardiac, physical, occupational, and pulmonary rehabilitation services within the same space. More information is available at the Bassett Healthcare Network Facebook page.

State Health Commissioner Dr. James McDonald announced that flu is no longer prevalent, the declaration lifts the masking requirement for health care workers who are not vaccinated against flu. Commissioner McDonald declared flu prevalent in New York back on December 18, 2024.

Commerce Chenango's 2nd annual Women's Leadership Conference was held Tuesday at the Canasawacta Country Club in Norwich, with a large turnout for the all day event, according to Sophia Root of Commerce Chenango:

(Sophia Root 3-27-25)

Root said that they plan on having that event again next year, she also said that the Chenango Threat Advisory Committee will have next presentation on April 17th.

U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand is calling on VA employees and vets to contact her office with concerns they may be having regarding the Trump administration demanding they return to in person work, cutting staff, and making it more difficult for mental health professionals to administer confidential help to vets.

(Gillibrand 3-37-25)

Lawsuits have put a temporary hold on many of the VA firings, Gillibrand is calling on President Trump to reevaluate return to office policies and ensure that veterans’ needs are being met fully.

The Chenango County Planning Department is hosting a traveling training session today, in conjunction with “Getthere,” from the Rural Health Network of South Central New York. Shane Butler of the Chenango County Planning Department explains:

(Shane Butler 3-6-25)

Butler said that a Getthere representative will visit the Norwich American Legion from 10 am. to 12 pm.

31 year old Osvaldo Constanza was sentenced in Chenango County Court for a 3rd degree rape charge, to 1 1/2 years in state prison, followed by 3 years of post release supervision, he will also be required to register as a sex offender. An order of protection was issued on behalf of the 15 year old victim.

P.M. NEWS THURSDAY 3-6-25

The Chenango County Planning Department is hosting a traveling training session, in conjunction with “Getthere,” from the Rural Health Network of South Central New York. Shane Butler of the Chenango County Planning Department explains:

(Shane Butler 3-6-25)

Butler said that a Getthere representative will visit the Norwich American Legion from 10 am. to 12 pm. on March 27 to train organizations and individuals on how to utilize their services.

The CDO Workforce is holding a mini job fair & employment information sessions today at 5460 State Highway 12 in Norwich. Representatives from Achieve, UHS & Chenango County are looking to fill positions locally, the job fair will run from 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM.

The Otsego County Health Department announced that a Gray Fox has tested positive for rabies. The State DEC collected the fox from the Town of Otsego on September 9th, it was held until tested this week, there were no animal or human exposures. Otsego County Health officials remind residents to get their pets & farm animals vaccinated for rabies, more information is available at 607-547-4230.

The Dick's Sporting Goods Open at the En-Joie Golf Course announced that Maroon 5 will be the headliner for this year's Concert, on July 11th in Endicott. Tickets go on sale on December 6th at ticketmaster, more information is available at 607-205-1500.

A.M. NEWS THURSDAY 11-21-24

49 year old Keith Audette of Hamden pleaded guilty to Driving While Ability Impaired by Drugs, in Delaware County Court Tuesday, Audette admitted that he had been previously convicted of Operating a Motor Vehicle While Intoxicated in Chenango County in 2015, he also admitted that he drove a motor vehicle in the Village of Walton on April 9th while under the influence of methamphetamine. Audette is expected to be sentenced to 5 years of felony probation supervision, and his license will be revoked, he will also be required to pay any fines and surcharges imposed by the Court.

The Great American Smoke-Out is today nationwide, to help people quit smoking tobacco for one day, in the hope that they keep it going beyond today. The Chenango County Health Department encourages individuals who use nicotine/tobacco products to participate in the Great American Smoke-Out. A variety of treatments are available, people can call the New York State Quit-line at 1-866-NY-QUITS, go to nysmokefree.com, or cdc.gov/tobacco

A check for $4,000 was presented by the Rotary Club of Cooperstown to support a partnership between Bassett Healthcare Network’s Cancer Institute and the Cooperstown Food Pantry that delivers free food to cancer patients in need across the region. The matching grant, made up of a $2,000 grant from Central New York Rotary and a $2,000 grant from the Rotary Club of Cooperstown, will help the program continue. The Cooperstown Food Pantry, located at 25 Church Street, & currently serves between 45 to 50 households.

WCDO NEWS FRIDAY 10-25-24

Bassett Healthcare Network announced the elimination of around 100 positions, the majority were administrative. Patient care would not be affected by the layoffs, which represent 2% of their total workforce.

Chenango County Public Health will hold a vaccine clinic for RSV, COVID 19 & the flu at the public health facility in at 5 Court Street Norwich Today, the clinic will be held from 1:30 to 3:30 PM for those who register at 607-337-1660.

Otsego County Sheriff's Office arrested 43 year old Whitney Bachanas of Milford woman for animal cruelty after Deputies responded to County Highway 35 in the Town of Milford for a welfare check. Bachanas was charged with Abandonment of Animals, Failure to provide proper sustenance, Deputies located several animals abandoned, malnourished and mistreated. 2 emaciated dogs in critical condition were transported to Cornell University animal hospital. A 3rd dog was located deceased as well as a turkey and a quail. 2 quail were rescued for foster and rehabilitation. The Susquehanna SPCA, Cornell University and Farm Friends Network assisted in this rescue and investigation. Bachanas was issued appearance tickets and is set to appear in court at a later date.

A.M. NEWS FRIDAY 9-6-24

Colorscape Chenango will take place this Saturday and Sunday, in East and West Parks, downtown Norwich, director Michele Erickson comments:

(Michele Erickson 8-26-24)

The performance schedule for all the live acts can be found on www.colorscape.org.

The Chenango Historical Society will be conducting 3 tours again this year during Colorscape Chenango, of 2 significant Norwich structures, Society Executive Director Jessica Moquin explains:

(Jessica Moquin 8-22-24)

More information about this & other programs can be found at chenangohistorical.org

The 2nd Annual Health Fair on the Bainbridge Village Green will be held in Saturday, September 7th from 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM. it is being organized by Pastor Kenneth Simurra of the First Presbyterian Church, Bainbridge and United Presbyterian, East Guilford, he told WCDO News that he already has about twice as many organizations signed up for this year:

(Kenneth Simurra 8-12-24)

More information is available by email to ksimurra@msn.com.

The Chenango Health Department will hold a rabies vaccination clinic for dogs cats & ferrets Saturday at the Greene Ball Flats from 9:00 to 10:30 A.M. Pre-registration is required at 607-337-1673, a $5 Donation is suggested.

A.M. NEWS FRIDAY 7-19-24

Governor Hochul signed legislation to add new 28 judges across the state to reduce the case backlog in family and civil courts. Locally, the new legislation will create a new judge position in Chenango County, with an expedited election process to fill the position. Currently the county is served by Chenango County Judge Frank Revoir, for criminal, family and surrogate court matters.

53 Baseball Hall of Fame members are expected to return to Cooperstown this weekend as they induct 2024 electees Adrian Beltré, Todd Helton, Jim Leyland and Joe Mauer into the Hall of Fame. The Class of 2024 will be inducted on Sunday at the Clark Sports Center beginning at 1:30 PM, it will air live on MLB Network.

Bassett Healthcare Network is partnering with the Oneonta World of Learning to host the 4th annual YOUTH PAINT FEST tomorrow at the Foxcare Center in Oneonta. The event runs from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM, it is free & donations to the Oneonta World of Learning will be accepted.

A.M. NEWS FRIDAY 3-1-24

Broome County Sheriff's Office announced that 23 year old Souley Pertilla-Camara of Binghamton was arrested in Orlando, Florida. Pertilla-Camara was wanted by Binghamton City Police for the shooting of Lamont Weaver on June 17, 2023, where Weaver sustained a gunshot wound to the abdomen and survived, he was also wanted on an outstanding warrant for Criminal Possession of a Weapon. Pertilla-Camara will be returned to Broome County shortly.

Chenango County area business owners are teaming up for a Wedding Expo in Norwich Sunday, organizer Kerri Beckwith explains:

(Kerri Beckwith 3-1-24)

Beckwith said that they have 50 vendors signed up, more information is available at 607-373-9770

Bassett Healthcare Network & other health care providers are teaming up for the March into Health: A Cancer Awareness Event and Health Fair at the Southside Mall in Oneonta Saturday, from 10 am. to 2 pm. Bassett Spokesman Jim Feldman Comments:

(Jim Feldman 3-1-24)

The event will feature an opportunity to learn about colon cancer, with health related vendors participating from the Cancer Services Program of the Central New York Region, Operation Safe Child, Head Start, Tobacco Free Communities, Office for the Aging, Southern Tier Connect, LEAF & Otsego County Department of Health

Bassett Healthcare Network’s Population Health Office is participating with Oneonta Organizations in the ONEbox program, organized by the Oneonta Narcan Initiative Team. ONEboxes allows ordinary bystanders to become lifesavers in the event of a drug overdose emergency, Bassett spokesman Jim Feldman explains:

(Jim Feldman 2-28-24)

Feldman said that Naloxone is a medication that can quickly counteract opioids in someone’s body if they are experiencing an overdose. Bassett's ONEbox is located at Collaborative Health Partners, 6181 State Route 7 in Oneonta, it is accessible Monday-Friday, 8 am.-5 pm.

Governor Hochul announced that $20 million in state funding has been awarded to 7 counties and New York City to improve public safety and emergency communications. The funding can be used to install new equipment, enhance public safety radio systems, Locally, Chenango County will get $3 million in funding for a 25 digital radio system to bring multiple agencies into a single radio system.

Bassett Healthcare Network and Helios Care recently announced a collaboration to provide hospice and palliative care to patients in Central New York. Helios Care President & CEO Dan Ayres visited WCDO this morning & explained that there has been confusion about the arrangement, and the Helios Care remains as a separate entity from Bassett:

(Dan Ayres 1-15-24)

Ayres said that the State Department of Health has given approval for Helios Care to expand their services to include Herkimer and Chenango Counties to better line up with the Bassett Healthcare Network coverage area, more information regarding donations or job openings are available at helioscare.org or by calling 6070432-6773

P.M. NEWS WEDNESDAY 1-10-24

Bassett Healthcare Network has instituted temporary masking requirements across all its facilities per COVID-19 safety guidelines. All patients, visitors, employees, students, and volunteers are now required to wear medical-grade masks across all Bassett campuses, outpatient clinics, school-based health centers, administrative offices, Masks will be available at entrances. The mandatory masking requirement will be reassessed in 1 week. As Bassett's employees continue to have a higher number of COVID cases above their threshold.

The Chenango Arts Council is looking for artists to come forward if they want to display their works in their Norwich Gallery, spokesperson Mary Beth Miller explains:

(Mary Beth Miller 1-10-24)

Miller said that the artists interest in submitting proposals should email them: info@chenangoarts.org.

Chenango County Sheriff’s Office arrested 32 year old Keith Tompkins of Oxford for several counts of Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance, 9 counts of Criminally Using Drug Paraphernalia, after deputies observed a male, laying on the floor in the back of the vehicle, attempting to conceal himself by hiding under automotive parts. Tompkins had an active arrest warrant out of the Village of Oxford Court for Unlawful Fleeing of a Police Officer. Tompkins was in possession of over 2 ounces of crack cocaine, about 4 ounces of crystal Methamphetamine, 1,150 wax envelopes of Fentanyl, packaging material, digital scales, and over $2,000 in cash from suspected drug sales. Tompkins was arraigned and was remanded to the Chenango County Correctional Facility without bail. Tompkins is to appear in Chenango County Court at a later date.

Bassett Healthcare Network and Helios Care are collaborating to provide hospice and palliative care to patients in Central New York. The State Department of Health has given approval for Helios Care to expand their services to include Herkimer and Chenango Counties to better serve within the Bassett Healthcare Network. Currently, Helios Care serves Otsego, Delaware, and Schoharie Counties.

The Bassett Healthcare Network announced that O’Connor Hospital in Delhi has achieved re-accreditation by the Joint Commission after an on-site assessment and survey. All hospitals, health systems, and health services must achieve certain accreditations to remain in operation, Hospitals are evaluated quality and safety, organizational performance, care plans, and Hospital surveys by the Joint Commission generally last for 3 consecutive days and occur every three years.

Chenango Arts Council’s Holiday Show, with the New York Theater Ballet will be performed tonight at the Martin W. Kappel Theater in Norwich, Council Spokesperson Mary Beth Miller explains:

(Mary Beth Miller 12-13-23)

More information about this & other shows & activities are available at ChenangoArts.org or call (607) 336-2787. Chenango Arts Council is located at 27 West Main Street, Norwich.

Chenango Memorial Hospital is closing the long-term care unit located on the hospital’s second floor as of January 31st. CMH will no longer be accepting new residents and, over the next 2 months, they will work closely with our residents and their families to ensure their placement in other long-term care facilities. 19 residents are currently at the facility, and employees of the facility will be transferred to other positions across the Hospital's departments. The hospital’s board and leadership team are currently exploring options for alternative uses for the second floor of the hospital.

Bassett Healthcare Network’s board of directors announced that President and CEO, Dr. Tommy Ibrahim, has decided to leave the organization at the end of the year. The Bassett Healthcare Network board has voted to appoint Staci Thompson, who is the Bassett Healthcare Network’s current executive vice president and chief operating officer, as Dr. Ibrahim’s successor, on an interim basis starting on January 1st. Over the coming weeks, Ibrahim and Thompson will work together with the Bassett Healthcare Network board of directors and executive leadership team to ensure a smooth transition of leadership.

44 year old Andre Gilliam of Binghamton was arrested after a search warrant was executed on Tuesday. The Broome County Special Investigations Unit Task Force Tuesday executed a search warrant at 174 1/2 Castle Creek Road in the Town of Chenango, they seized Fentanyl, Scales and cutting agent used for the distribution of narcotics, plus $3,790 in cash from suspected drug sales. Gilliam was charged with multiple counts of Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance & 2 Counts of Criminally Using Drug Paraphernalia, he was transported to the Broome County Correctional Facility for processing and to await arraignment at Central Arraignment.

The Chenango County Sheriff's Office arrested 34 year old James Gay of North Norwich for Driving While Ability Impaired by drugs, and Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance, following a traffic stop for an equipment violation in the Town of Norwich. During the investigation of the traffic stop, James was exhibiting signs of recent drug use and failed the field sobriety testing. While being taken into custody James was found with a small amount of Methamphetamine. James was processed and released on appearance Tickets to appear in the Town of Norwich Court at a later date.

John "JB" Bayne has announced his departure as the General Manager of the Binghamton Rumble Ponies, the Double-A affiliate of the New York Mets. Team Officials said that Bayne will be replaced on an interim basis by Richard Tylicki, and the search for a new General Manager will begin immediately.

A.M. NEWS Wednesday 11-8-23

Election Night Results are coming in, The State Board of Elections stated that in the State Supreme Court 6th District, Republican Cheryl Insinga was the winner by a 49 to 46% margin, The Delaware County Board of Elections announced that unofficially, in the town of Sidney race, Kevin Greene & Paul Muratore are the winners of 2 seats, The Chenango County Board of Elections stated that unofficially, in the Town of Guilford Superviser race, Sue McIntyre defeated 2 other candidates.

Bassett Healthcare Network and the Cancer Services Program of the Central Region will have No cost cancer screenings today at the Southside Mall in Oneonta, from 9:00 am. to 3:00 PM. More information or Appointments can be made by calling 1-888-345-0225.

Bassett Healthcare Network announced that they have been alerted of an email scam, where scammers are posing as representatives or recruiters on behalf of A.O. Fox Hospital and attempting to steal money and personal identification information from victims. The suspicious emails reads: “A.O. Fox Memorial Hospital is pleased to extend an offer of employment to you a the full-time position”, it prompts the reader to “scan a copy of personal forms of identification for employment verification,” Bassett Healthcare Network will never ask potential job seekers for any forms of payment or personal documents prior to a genuine job offer. Anyone receiving the email should Report it to Trina Silver, Privacy Officer at Bassett, at 607-547-7900 or patrenia.silver@bassett.org, they should also contact Law Enforcement, change their internet passwords & contact their financial institution.

Broome County District Attorney Mike Korchak announced that Dylan Shoemaker of Chenango Forks pleaded guilty to 2nd Degree Assault, in Broome County Court Friday. Shoemaker admitted that on February 6th, he assaulted a State trooper, when police responded to a residence on Perch Pond Road in Windsor following the report of a domestic dispute. 1 trooper was hit in the face and the same trooper was cut by glass as he wrestled Shoemaker to the ground, he was treated and released at a local hospital. Shoemaker has a lengthy criminal history, he will be sentenced to 12 years to life in New York State prison on January 12.

Rural Health Network of South Central New York will hold their 25th Anniversary Celebration Event & fundraiser today, in Binghamton, Director of Resource Development Cindy Martin told WCDO News about celebration & their services:

(Cindy Martin 9-28-23)

More information is available at rhnscny.org.

P.M. NEWS THURSDAY 10-5-23

Bassett Healthcare Network announced enhanced sign-on bonuses for a variety of open job positions for the next 90 days. Spokesperson Gabby Argo explains:

(Gabby Argo 10-5-23)

Bonus increases include up to $35,000 for registered nurses, Up to $20,000 for licensed practical nurses, clinical laboratory technicians, ultrasound technologists, radiology technologists, physical therapists, and occupational therapists & Up to $15,000 for nursing assistants, emergency department technicians, physical therapy assistants, More information is available at bassett.org/careers.

The Chenango County Historical Society will host special programming Saturday from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM. Festivities include interactive demonstrations with a blacksmith and other historic artisans, the Chenango Canal Association, the Chenango Valley Amateur Radio Association, There is no charge for the “Museums & More!” Day activities, more information about this & future programs can be found at ChenangoHistorical.org for more details about this and other programs.

A.M. NEWS THURSDAY 10-5-23

State Police are searching for 16-year-old Emily Clapper who was reported missing on October 2nd, she is described as 5 foot 4 inches tall, 120 pounds with red hair and blue eyes. She was last seen wearing a gray sweatshirt with “OLD FORGE” in white letters and gray sweatpants, she may be in the city of Oneonta area. Anyone with information should call State Police at (315) 366-6000.

The Otsego County Health Department will have a Rabies Vaccination Clinic for Dog Cats & Ferrets at the Otego Fire Department today. The clinic will run from 6:00 to 8:00 PM, more information is available at 607-547-4230.

The Rural Health Network of South Central New York will be hold a 25th anniversary celebration in October in Binghamton, Director of Resource Development Cindy martin told WCDO News about their services:

(Cindy Martin 9-28-23)

The celebration will be held October 16th at 5:00 PM at the Double Tree at the Hilton in Binghamton, tickets are available until October 6th, more information & tickets are available at rhnscny.org.

Chenango County Health Department will have a drive thru flu vaccination event at the Chenango County Fairgrounds in Norwich from 9-11 am. on Saturday October 7, for ages 10 and older. Preregistration is required at health.ny.gov; more information is available at 337-1660.

State police reported that 82 year old Lorena Mayes of Norwich was killed from a 2-vehicle crash Tuesday afternoon in the town of North Norwich. Police reported that Mayes was operating her vehicle at County Highway 32 and State Highway 12, she pulled out into the path of an SUV traveling north on Route 12. Mayes was transported to Chenango Hospital, but did not survive. A 91-year-old passenger in the Mayes vehicle was taken to Chenango Memorial Hospital with non-life-threatening injuries. Both occupants of the SUV were taken to Basset Hospital in Cooperstown with non-life-threatening injuries.

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

(Dr. Tommy Ibrahim 9-14-23)

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

The Otsego County Health Department, Sheriff's Office & The Governor's Traffic Safety Committee will hold a Child car Seat Safety check event today at the AAA office on State Highway 28 in Oneonta. The clinic will run from 2:00 to 5:00 PM, More information is available at 607-547-4230.

Federal funding will be going to the Chenango Health Network, they will receive $60,000 to help the organization to further its comprehensive approach to substance abuse prevention, intervention, and treatment. The Money is coming from the US Department of Heath & Human Services.

The State Department of Labor released preliminary local area unemployment rates for June. The State’s seasonally adjusted unemployment rate held constant at 3.9% in June, locally Chenango County had 2.8% unemployment, Delaware County had 3.6% and Otsego County had 3.3% in June.

Basset Health Care recently held a conference regarding their successful School Based Health Centers, Spokesperson Gabby Argo explains:

(Gabby Argo 3-24-23)

Argo said that Basset operates the largest school based health network in New York State with 21 schools in 17 area districts participating in the program.

The Chenango County Department of Public Health is offering a free rabies clinic for Chenango County pet owners on Saturday, from 9 to 10:30 a.m. at the Guilford Highway Department, located at 223 Marble Road in Guilford. The clinic is for Dogs Cats & Domesticated Ferrets.

P.M. NEWS THURSDAY 3-23-23

2 Broome County residents are facing 20 felony charges after being apprehended by Broome County Sheriff’s Deputies following an armed robbery in the Town of Chenango that led to an extended vehicle and foot pursuit through Johnson City and Endwell. Deputies responded Wednesday to a report of a robbery and assault on Dimmock Hill Road in the Town of Chenango. Deputies determined that 39 year old Alex Shoga of Binghamton, entered the residence displaying a handgun with 27 year old Kristin Silvanic of Endicott. 1 of the victims stolen tablets allowed deputies to track the suspects in Johnson City, where Deputies converged on the area and encountered the suspect vehicle, after a short pursuit, the suspects were taken to the Broome County Sheriff’s Office Central Arraignment and charged with the following Robbery, Burglary, criminal Use of a Firearm, tampering with physical evidence & criminal possession of stolen property, among many other charges,

19th District Congressman Marc Molinaro announced over $10 million in federal funding for various local organizations. Greater Opportunities for Broome and Chenango, Inc. is receiving $2,744,923 for its Head Start Program, Cornell University is receiving $3,792,922 for pharmacology research and $776,752 for allergy and immunology research. SUNY Binghamton is receiving $783,365 for alcohol abuse treatment research & The Family Health Network of Central New York, Inc. is receiving $2,300,207 to support the continuation of care.

Following the release of a CDC report that showed a sharp increase in maternal mortality in 2021, U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand announced that start of a new hotline to help pregnant women or new mothers deal with a variety of issues:

(Gillibrand 3-23-23)

Gillibrand's "National Maternal Mental Health Hotline" has already helped 7,5000 and Gillibrand is calling for its full implementation in the next federal Budget.

A.M. NEWS 3-23-23

The Delaware County District Attorney office announced that 37 year old Douglas Rodriguez pleaded guilty in Delaware County Court to Criminal Contempt, after violating a court order of protection by phone several times, and for trying to convince that person not to testify against him. Rodriguez was remanded to the Delaware County Jail on $35,000 cash bail pending sentencing on April 10th.

The Delaware County District Attorney's office announced that 50 year old Kristopher Surdis of Kingston, appeared in Delaware County Court on March 20, 2023 and pleaded guilty to one count of Falsely Reporting an Incident. Surdis was arrested by the Colchester Police Department for allegedly calling the Downsville Country Store and reporting a bomb threat. After being arraigned on a Superior Court Information, he pleaded guilty and was sentenced to time already served in jail and also imposed a 3-year Conditional Discharge, which requires Surdis undergo a mental health evaluation, and comply with any treatment recommendations for the next three years, if he violates the terms, he could be re-sentenced to a term of 7 years in jail.

Alliance for Manufacturing and Technology will host an OSHA Ergonomic Safety Training today in the Commerce Chenango Community Room from 1:00 pm. to 3:30 pm. The event is geared towards manufacturers who employ less than 250 employees, more information is available at Commerce Chenango at 607-334-1400.