WCDO Radio News

P.M. NEWS TUESDAY 6-30-26

With extreme heat forecast in the Tri-County Region over the next few days, Cooling stations will be open at various location, in Delaware County, cooling stations will be at the Sidney Memorial Public Library, the Andes Public Library, other locations may be announced, In Chenango County, designated emergency cooling centers include the Guernsey Memorial Library at 3 Court Street, in Norwich, the Sherburne Public Library, more information may be available from the Chenango County Clerk's Office. IN Otsego County, cooling centers include the Southside Mall, The Foxcare Center as well as the greater Plains & Wilber Pools in Oneonta or the Clark Sport Center in Cooperstown, more information is available at the State Department of Health

The Nate Lull Scholarship winners were announced, Lull told WCDO that there were 8 winners out of over 200 Applicants:

(Nate Lull 6-30-26)

Lull said that the was the 4th year old of the Scholarship, which has handed out about $65,000 so far to graduating seniors.

35 Year old Ciera Washington of the Bronx pleaded guilty in US District Court to conspiracy to commit health care fraud and aggravated identity theft. Washington admitted that from April 2023 through October 2024, she worked with 2 others to steal the personal information of Medicaid beneficiaries and use that information to fraudulently obtain prescription medications from pharmacies throughout New York State & the Northeastern States, which caused a loss of nearly $4 million to the Medicaid program and tens of thousands of dollars to pharmacies. Washington agreed to forfeit over $400,000 in proceeds from her crimes and to consent to an order of restitution for the losses they caused. Washington faces up to 10 years’ imprisonment on the fraud count and a mandatory term of 2 years on the aggravated identity theft count, which must run consecutively, when sentenced in October in Federal Court, She also faces a term of supervised release of up to 3 years.

Governor Kathy Hochul today announced that more than $10 million in funding was awarded to 20 projects as part of Round 2 of the Municipal Parks and Recreation (MPR) Grant Program to fund the development and improvement of municipal parks and recreation sites statewide for the public to enjoy. Funding for this program was provided by the $4.2 billion Clean Water, Clean Air and Green Jobs Environmental Bond Act. 1 of the awards will go to the City of Norwich, they receive $810,000 to improve safety, accessibility and play opportunities by replacing aging playground equipment, court space and safety surfacing at the park on Hale Street.

A.M. NEWS TUESDAY 6-30-26

State and local law enforcement agencies will increase patrols to crack down on reckless and impaired driving statewide ahead of and during the July 4th holiday weekend. This campaign began Monday & will run through Sunday, July 5. Law enforcement officers across New York will conduct sobriety checkpoints and target dangerous and aggressive driving during what is considered the busiest travel weekend of the summer. To help ease travel during the busy holiday weekend, temporary lane closures for road and bridge construction projects on New York State highways will be suspended from 6 am. Thursday, July 2, through 6 am. Monday, July 6, some work may continue behind permanent concrete barriers or for emergency repairs.

A community-wide conversation about housing insecurity and homelessness will take center stage in Norwich next month, as leaders come together to host A Conference on Housing and Belonging. The event will take place from 9:30 am. to 2 pm. on Friday, July 17 in the Norwich High School Auditorium. The conference is free and open to the public. Registration is recommended but not required. For more information or to register, contact AnnMarie Smith, Assistant Director of Housing Services, Catholic Charities of Chenango County at (607) 334-8244, ext. 242, or via email at amsmith@ccofcc.com.

P.M. NEWS THURSDAY 7-10-25

State Police arrested 43 Year old Delbert Dewey of Sherburne for Arson & Criminal Mischief, On July 5th, Troopers responded to a report of a vehicle on fire in a driveway on Classic Street in Sherburne. The investigation revealed that Dewey intentionally started a fire inside the vehicle after having a disagreement earlier in the day with the residents on Classic Street. Dewey was later arrested and was arraigned and was remanded to the Chenango County Jail on $15,000 cash bail, $30,000 bond, pending future court action.

Otsego County Sheriff's Office arrested 36 year old Joseph Clary of Oneonta, for Sex Offender Failure to Update Change of Address. Clary was released from the Elmira Correctional Facility, he was to report to the Otsego County Department of Social Services to secure temporary housing which would provide an address that would be listed on his State registry. After 10 days, Clary failed to notify or report to the DSS, the Otsego County Sheriff’s Office or his parole officer, he was located Tuesday in Oneonta by parole officers and taken in to custody, he was taken to the Otsego County Correctional Facility for arraignment. .

The Chenango County Health Department is asking County Residents to fill out an online health survey in the next few weeks, County Director of Health Isaiah Sutton explains:

(Isaiah Sutton 7-10-25)

Sutton said that the online survey can be found at chenangocounty.ny.gov, through August 31st. More information is also available at 607-337-1660.

The 3rd Annual Taste of Chenango will be held in Norwich later this month to highlight what the County has to offer, according to Commerce Chenango President & CEO Sal Testani:

(Sal Testani 7-10-25)

The event will be held at the Chenango County Fairgrounds on Saturday July 26th from 1:00 to 6:00 PM, they will accept donations for local food banks at the event.

A.M. NEWS THURSDAY 7-10-25

Otsego County Sheriff's Office arrested 39 year old Jacqueline Barkman of Oneonta for Grand Larceny, Burglary, Criminal Possession Controlled Substance & Criminal Trespass, following a larceny investigation at Walmart in the Town of Oneonta. Barkman was found to have removed over $1000 worth of merchandise without paying, she was also found to be in possession of a controlled substance, she was issued an appearance ticket to appear at a later date at Oneonta Town Court.

Otsego County Sheriff's Office arrested 58 year old Michael Mollo of Worcester, for DWI, Obstructing Governmental Administration, Reckless Driving, Aggravated Unlicensed Operation, and Leaving the Scene of a Property Damage Motor Vehicle Accident, as well as a host of other related charges, following an investigation into a property damage accident in the Town of Worcester. Mollo was found to be intoxicated and arrested, he was processed and released and is set to appear in court at a later date.

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

(Penny McKnight 7-10-25)

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

P.M. NEWS TUESDAY 6-24-25

An Endicott man is facing a felony charge after allegedly stealing 27 iPhones from a FedEx facility while working for the company. Last Friday the Broome County Sheriff’s Office Road Patrol responded to a larceny complaint at FedEx Freight East, at Industrial Park Drive in the Town of Kirkwood. Security at the facility advised that someone had been stealing from iPhones since April by sneaking them out of the facility in his coat pocket. After reviewing footage, 22 year old Leon Roberts of Endicott was charged with 3rd degree Grand Larceny. Roberts was arraigned at Central Arraignment Part and released with an appearance ticket returnable to the Town of Kirkwood Court.

Organizer at the Gus Macker 3 on 3 Basketball Tournament in Norwich announced that the Registration period has been extended

(Tom Revoir 6-24-25)

A large number of teams were still trying to register yesterday, so registration was extended until midnight on Wednesday, June 25th, more information is available at Macker.com, Tournament Dates are July 12th & 13th

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

(JUNE WHITE 6-24-25)

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

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

(Penny McKnight 6-24-25)

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

A.M. NEWS TUESDAY 6-24-25

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

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

Amphenol of Sidney is celebrating 100 years in operation in the village of Sidney, with an Open House on Saturday July 19th, with a host of activities & exhibits at the Delaware Avenue facility. WCDO News interviewed Chris Cappello, who is helping to organize the event & wrote a book on the company's rich history in Sidney, that interview will be aired in its entirety following the 6:00 PM News tonight on WCDO.

P.M. NEWS FRIDAY 3-28-25

Paddlers interested in signing up for this year's General Clinton Canoe Regatta can start the registration process, the sooner the better according to Regatta Co-Chair Mike Kaufman:

(Mike Kaufman 3-28-25)

All of the information regarding sign up & other activities can be found at canoeregatta.org., this year's even will be Friday Night through Sunday Night of the Memorial Day Weekend, May 23rd through the 25th.

The Sidney Chamber of Commerce announced their award winners this week, Tim Doyle was named as the Citizen of the Years, for all of his involvement in area

organizations:

(Tim Doyle 3-28-25)

Amphenol was named as the Business of the Years, as they celebrate the 100th anniversary of the company & their related predecessors, General Manager Kyle Brown

Comments:

(Kyle Brown 3-28-25)

The Sidney Chamber named Catholic Charities as the Non Profit organization of the years, spokesperson Christy Houck comments:

(Christy Houck 3-28-25)

All will be celebrated at the Sidney Chamber's Annual Dinner in June.

Delaware County District Attorney Shawn Smith announced that the Delaware County Grand Jury returned a 5-count indictment against Jeramiah Burke of Margaretville. Each count of the five count Indictment accuses Burke of Menacing a Police Officer, on March 9th, in the Town of Middletown, he is accused of intentionally place or attempt to place several different uniformed police officers, including State Troopers and Deputies, in reasonable fear of physical injury by displaying a knife while such police officers were in the course of performing their official duties.

A.M NEWS Friday 3-28-25

State Police arrested 24 year old Evan Eldred of McDonough following an investigation and the execution of a search warrant at his residence Tuesday. In June of 2023, Troopers received information in Virginia that an adult man had inappropriate communications, sent sexually explicit images and was soliciting a juvenile, During the execution of the search warrant Eldred was found to be in possession of 5 assault rifles and high-capacity magazines, he was charged with 9 counts of Criminal Possession of a Weapon, disseminating Indecent Material to Minors, Endangering the Welfare of a Child, he was arraigned at the Norwich City Court and remanded to the Chenango County Correctional Facility on $10,000 cash bail, $75,000 partially secured bond.

The State Department of Labor announced the number of private sector jobs increased by 3,700, to 8,463,100 in February 2025. The State's unemployment rate decreased from 4.4% in January to 4.3% in February, the State's labor force participation rate increased from 60.8% in January to 60.9% in February 2025.

The Norwich Theater Company will be bringing their production of "Terms of Endearment" to the Martin W. Kappel Theater at 7:00 PM tonight & Saturday Night and at 2:00 PM matinee on Sunday, Mary Beth Miller of the Chenango Arts Council explains:

(Mary Beth Miller 3-28-25)

Tickets for "Terms of Endearment" are on sale at the Chenango Arts Council, C.S. Miller Books, Service Pharmacy in Norwich, or by calling 607-244-3852.

The Afton Sertoma “Goofy Golf” fundraiser will be held this Saturday at the Afton Central School, Spokesperson Helen Kittle explains:

(Helen Kittle 3-24-25)

The event will run from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM Saturday to raise money for the Afton Sertoma & the programs they support.

Chenango County Sheriff's Office arrested 49 year old Michael Hackett of Norwich following a traffic stop in the Town of Norwich Monday. Deputies and Detectives initiated a traffic stop on a motorcycle on State Highway 12 for Vehicle and Traffic violations. During the investigation, Deputies located Methamphetamine, Cocaine, and Crack Cocaine. Hackett was charged with multiple counts of Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance, Hackett was arraigned & he was held without bail until a later court date.

Governor Kathy Hochul today announced that major construction has begun on a $21.8 million project along a stretch of I-88 from Exit 18 in the town of Maryland to Exit 19 in the town of Worcester. The $21.8 million project will resurface 8.4 miles of pavement, Additionally, minor work will take place on the bridges over South Hill Road, and rehabilitation work will be done on 16 small culverts.

The State Department of Labor announced that the number of private sector jobs in New York State increased by 0.1%, to 8.35 Million in April. The State's unemployment rate decreased slightly to 4.2% in April & the State's labor force participation rate decreased slightly to 61.3%.

Chenango County Sheriff’s Office arrested the 2nd suspect of a Grand Larceny complaint. On July 15, 2023 a business in the Town of North Norwich reported that an enclosed trailer was stolen, Detectives were able to identify the 2 suspects by tracking the vehicle used in the larceny, into Oneida County by viewing security cameras, the suspects were Michael Garramone of Remsen, and Derek Crouse of Whitesboro. On July 28, 2023 Garramone was arrested, Crouse fled to Rhode Island, a warrant was issued for Crouse’s arrest. Cranston Police Department in Rhode Island was involved in a vehicle pursuit Sunday with Crouse on a motorcycle, they took Crouse into custody & he was turned over to the Chenango County Sheriff’s Office, he was charged with Grand Larceny & Conspiracy & was arraigned & remanded to the Chenango County Correctional Facility on no bail pending action in Town of North Norwich Court.

The Otsego County Sheriff’s Office arrested 26 year old Tyler Mitchell of Stamford, following a traffic stop in the Town of Edmeston. Mitchell was found to be operating a motor vehicle on a public highway with a suspended driver’s license, he was found to be in possession of a modified pistol that had the serial number removed, he was found to be in possession of a quantity of Methamphetamine and Suboxone. Mitchell was charged with Criminal Possession of a firearm, Criminal Possessing of a controlled Substance, among several traffic infractions, he was taken into custody and later held at the Otsego County Jail pending central arraignment.

Catholic Charities will hold their 11th annual fundraising Pasta Dinner on May 16th at the Quality Inn of Oneonta, from 5:00 to 7:00 PM. Tickets can be purchased at the Catholic Charities offices at the Sidney Civic Center, 176 Main Street in Oneonta or 489 West Main in Cobleskill. More information is available at 607-604-4071.

P.M. NEWS WEDNESDAY 1-17-24

The Broome County Special Investigations Unit Task Force executed a search warrant Tuesday at 373 Prospect Street in the Town of Dickinson. Police arrested 39 year old Andrew Fuller of Binghamton for multiple counts of Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance & criminally using drug Paraphernalia and 45 year old Betty Hobbs of Binghamton for multiple Counts of Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance. Officers seized Methamphetamine, Suboxone, Oxycodone & other narcotics, ecstasy, cocaine scales & packaging materials, Fuller and Hobbs were transported to the Broome County Correctional facility for processing and arraignment.

Governor Hochul today announced a plan to remove barriers for perspective school bus drivers applying for a commercial driver license. The DMV has implemented a federal waiver that allows school bus driver applicants to skip the engine compartment component of the commercial driver license road test, at a time when school bus drivers are desperately needed. More information is available at dmv.ny.gov/commercial-drivers/become-school-bus-driver

Catholic Charities in Sidney has a Food Pantry for those who would like to utilize their services, spokesperson Penny McKnight explains:

(Penny McKnight 1-17-24)

McKnight said that more information is available by calling the Sidney Office at 607-604-4071.

The Workforce Development Board is offering a free virtual job fair on Tuesday, January 30, from 11:00am to 1:00pm, for all businesses and job seekers in several regional counties. More information for businesses looking to add to their staff, or job seekers, can be obtained at working-solutions.org.

AM NEWS WEDNESDAY 1-17-24

Chenango County Sheriff’s Office arrested 30 year old Mark Lamphear of New Berlin for Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance with Intent to Sell, Criminally Using Drug Paraphernalia, Driving While Ability Impaired by Alcohol and DWI. Deputies conducted a traffic stop in the Town of Norwich for a speeding violation. they found Lamphear to be in possession of methamphetamine, Hydrocodone, gun parts that pieced together a non-compliant AR-15 and a 30-round magazine, packaging material and had a large sum of cash. Lamphear was processed and released on an appearance ticket and is to appear in the Town of Norwich Court at a later date, Additional Weapons Charges are Pending**

Otsego County Sheriff's Office arrested 41 year old Rashon Spear of Oneonta, for Criminal Mischief, Criminal Tampering, Criminal Nuisance & Harassment. Investigation revealed that while incarcerated at the correctional facility, Spear caused damage to a television set in his cell & used his bodily fluids to create a hazardous risk to corrections officers, hew as arraigned & was returned to the correctional facility with an Appearance Ticket returnable to the Town of Middlefield Court at a later date.

The 7th Annual Commerce Chenango Career Expo invites job seekers to explore career options at SUNY Morrisville’s Norwich campus Today, the Expo will take place from 1 pm. to 4 pm. at 20 Conkey Avenue in Norwich. More information is available at 334-1429.

P.M. NEWS WEDNESDAY 8-2-23

Chenango County Sheriff's Office arrested 52 year old Michael Garramone of Remsen, following an investigation of a trailer reported stolen from a North Norwich business July 14th. Investigators learned that 2 male suspects entered the business parking lot operating a Chevy Silverado which was used to steal the trailer, and Detectives were able to track the truck and stolen trailer into Oneida County with the help of a video security systems, pictures were released to the Sheriff's Social media pages, leading to the arrest. Garramone was located on July 28, he was charged with Grand Larceny and Conspiracy he was processed & was released pending court action in Town of North Norwich Court, additional arrests are expected shortly.

The Delaware County Chamber of Commerce along with many other agencies, will host a Business Resource Fair, in Sidney September 21st at the Sidney Community Cultural Center. Delaware County Chamber of Commerce President Ray Pucci visited the WCDO Morning show this morning & explained:

(Ray Pucci 8-2-23)

The event will run from 4:00 to 6:00 PM on September 21st, More information is available at DelawareCounty.org.

Catholic Charities of Sidney is still seeking children from the Sidney central School District, to sign up for free backpacks with school supplies, for the coming school year, spokesperson Penny McKnight explains:

(Penny McKnight 8-2-23)

McKnight said that this year, the free back pack program is open to Sidney School District Students from Kindergarten through 6th grade.

The Chenango County Sheriff’s Office Detectives Division arrested 40 year old Todd Jorgensen for Criminal Possession of Stolen Property, 2 counts of Criminal Sale of firearms and false written statement. The arrest came following an investigation of a Burglary of firearms in the Town of Columbus in December 2022. Jorgensen is accused of possessing the stolen firearms, he allegedly sold the stolen firearms to 2 different people, and provided a false statement to impede the recovery of the firearms. Jorgensen was processed and released on an appearance ticket to appear in the Town of Columbus Court at a later date.

A.M. NEWS Wednesday 8-2-23

State Police thanked the public & tips are no longer needed in the Oneonta Walmart theft of about $1100 worth of merchandise by a man & woman. Police said that they have identified the pair who robbed the store on July 27.

State Police in Troop "C" announced today that they will be hosting an interactive event on Saturday, at Spiedie Fest at Otsiningo Park in Binghamton. Between the hours of 10 am. and 8:00 pm., numerous specialty units will be available to answer questions and give Demonstrations, Troopers from the Troop C Recruitment Team will be available at this event and throughout the weekend to answer questions about becoming a New York State Trooper. State Police are currently offering the Trooper entrance exam through October 1, You can find the link at publicapps.troopers.ny.gov.

DTC or Delhi Telephone, will be holding an Open House Today in Delhi. Officials said that money raised will be used for area scholarships, the event runs from 11:00 AM to 2:00 PM at 107 Main Street in Delhi.

The Sidney Chamber of Commerce will hold their next meeting this morning at the Sidney Golf Course. the meeting begins at 8:00 AM, the Guest Speaker will be Delaware County Chamber of Commerce President Ray Pucci.

P.M. NEWS MONDAY 7-10-23

Delaware County will host an Innovative Readiness Training mission at the Walton High School starting tomorrow, with medical professionals providing free Medical, Dental & Veterinary services, as well as some community Heathcare providers with additional services, according to Director of Delaware County Planning & Watershed Affairs, Shelly Johnson-Bennett:

(Shelly Johnson-Bennett 7-10-23)

More information about the IRT program July 11th to the 19th, is available at delcony.us or at the Healthy Delaware Face Book Page.

State Police arrested 44 year old Reghan Parker of the town of Union for Possession of a Forged Instrument and Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance. Troopers observed a vehicle making vehicle and traffic violations, with an unlicensed driver operating the vehicle. Troopers said that the owner was Reghan Parker, who was in possession of suspected methamphetamine. Troopers also found that Parker’s vehicle had a homemade piece of paper on the front windshield attempting to represent a New York State Inspection sticker. Parker was issued appearance tickets to Broome County Centralized Arraignment and Processing.

Chenango County Sheriff's office arrested 30 year old James MacDuff of New Berlin today for 2 counts of Aggravated cruelty to animals, 2 counts of Failure to provide proper food and drink to an impounded animal, and 2 counts of Overdriving, torturing and injuring animals, failure to provide proper sustenance in the Town of Norwich. MacDuff was charged after he allegedly left 2 dogs locked in cages with no food or water in an uninhabited residence for over a month, both of the dogs died as a result. Neighbors alerted law enforcement after they noticed a foul smell coming from the residence. When law enforcement arrived, they found two decaying corpses that were still locked inside of their cages. Subject was arrested and released on an appearance ticket. He is set to appear in the Town of Norwich court on a later date.

The Broome County Sheriff's Office arrested 55 year old Daniel Erickson of Greene, who was the Principal of Johnson City Middle School, & who has been charged with luring a child and 3rd degree attempted rape. On Friday, Detectives arrested Erickson following an investigation into suspicious behavior involving a minor that attends Johnson City High School. Erickson is accused of communicating by Snapchat with a 16-year-old female student, he agreed to meet with her in a remote location with the intentions of engaging in sexual acts, however, detectives were at there and he was taken into custody without incident. Erickson was taken to Central Arraignment, he was remanded to the Correctional Facility without bail. The investigation is currently ongoing.

Delaware County Sheriff's Office Criminal Investigation Division assisted the State Office of Cannabis Management Enforcement Division at an inspection of a local business known as HEMPIRE on State Highway 30 Roxbury. Since June 7th, the New York State Office of Cannabis Management and the State Department of Taxation and Finance have conducted inspections of unlicensed cannabis retail businesses, At the HEMPIRE location, the proprietor did not have the necessary license required to legally sell hemp or cannabis, they seized about $40,000 worth of illicit products. Hempire was issued a Notice of Violation and Cease Order, Businesses found in violation are required to appear at administrative hearings where fines and penalties will be determined.

Catholic Charities of Sidney announced that their backpack with school supplies registration starts today & runs through August 11th. Students of the Sidney School District, whose family meets income requirements, can register by contacting the Sidney office in the Civic Center, or by calling at 607-604-4071.

A.M. NEWS MONDAY 7-10-23

State Police issued a total of 12,991 tickets statewide during the 4th of July STOP-DWI enforcement campaign, which ran from Friday, June 30, to July 5. Troopers arrested 193 people for DWI and investigated 949 crashes, including 158 personal injury crashes and 5 fatalities. Troopers issued over 4600 tickets for speeding, In Troop c, there were 497 speeding tickets issued, 9 DWI arrests, & 110 for child restraint or seat belt violation.

State Police arrested 62 year old Reginald Ross of Davenport for Criminal Mischief, Theft of Services, Criminal Tampering, Overdriving, torturing and injuring animals & failure to provide proper sustenance. Troopers were dispatched after it was discovered that Ross was stealing electricity from a residence on Charlotte Creek Road, Troopers also found several dogs on the Ross’ property, including one dog which had visible porcupine quills on its face and mouth, the dog was removed from the property to receive proper care. Ross was arraigned and released on his own recognizance and scheduled to appear in court on July 17th.

A free virtual job fair will be held on Wednesday, from 11:00am to 1:00pm with businesses and job seekers from several counties. The online event is sponsored by the Workforce Development Board of Herkimer, Madison and Oneida Counties, more information is available at working-solutions.org.

The Seattle Mariners selected Right Handed Pitcher Teddy McGraw of Oneonta & Wake Forest, in the 3rd round of the Major League Baseball Draft Monday. WCDO Sports Director Nate Lull comments:

(Nate Lull 7-10-23)

McGraw didn’t pitch this season for Wake Forest due to the most recent Tommy John Surgery, McGraw was interviewed on a recent Nate Lull Podcast, available at natelull.com, through the WCDO website or at any of the popular podcast apps.

P.M. NEWS THURSDAY 6-29-23

The Southern Tier Music Festival will be held Saturday at the Sidney Airport, featuring Country Stars Maddie & Tae and Restless Road, among 5 other locally known acts. organizers Ed Curley & Teri Schunk told WCDO about the start time & the parking situation for Saturday's event:

(Ed-Teri 6-29-23)

Tickets are available today & tomorrow at SFCU Branches in Sidney, Bainbridge & Norwich, at brownpapertickets.com or at the gate the day of the show. More information is available at southerntiermusicfest.com, or on their Facebook page.

Broome County Sheriff’s Deputies responded Friday to a report of a domestic incident in the Town of Barker. The victim reported that she had met 31 year old Ryan Storm of Endwell, 2 days prior on Snapchat. Storm began repeatedly calling her and sending threatening text messages, he then allegedly broke into her house to retrieve a personal possession & he threatened to rape her. Storm was charged with Burglary, Criminal Mischief & Harassment, he was arraigned, released & is due back in Town of Barker Court at a later date, an Order of Protection was issued on behalf of the victim.

Governor Hochul announced that temporary lane closures for road and bridge construction projects on State highways will be suspended from 6:00 AM Saturday, July 1 to 6:00 AM on Wednesday, July 5, to ease travel throughout the July 4th holiday weekend. Motorists should be aware that some work may continue behind permanent concrete barriers or for emergency repairs. AAA predicts record breaking traffic volumes over the holiday weekend, an increase of 2.4% over 2022.

Catholic Charities in Sidney is offering schools supplies & backpacks to local children in need, Spokesperson Penny McKnight explains:

(Penny McKnight 6-29-23)

More information is available by stopping at the Catholic Charities office in the Sidney Civic Center, or by calling 607-604-4071.

A.M. NEWS THURSDAY 6-29-23

The New York City Department of Environmental Protection announced a schedule change for planned work on the Delaware Aqueduct, with the project now scheduled to start in October of 2024. The project calls for shutting down a portion of the aqueduct in order to attach a bypass tunnel under the Hudson River, it was scheduled to begin in October of this year and last up to eight months. The shift in schedule was necessary to allow for additional pumps, as well as related drainage infrastructure and electrical support, to be installed to keep the construction zone dry and ensure worker safety during the repair of decades-old leaks.

The Greater Oneonta Historical Society and the Oneonta Job Corps Academy will unveil a historical marker for Homer Folks Tuberculosis Hospital at the corner of West Street and Homer Folks Drive this morning, This yellow and blue marker recognizes the former state hospital that treated hundreds of TB patients between 1935 and 1973. The hospital grounds are now occupied primarily by the Oneonta Job Corps Academy campus, along with several other entities.

The Chenango County Historical Society will hold their annual Summer Barn Party fundraiser, tonight from 6:00 to 8:30 PM 41 Rexford Street in Norwich. More information is available at (607) 334-9227.

P.M. NEWS THURSDAY 2-2-23

U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand discussed her dairy priorities for the upcoming 2023 Farm Bill negotiations. Gillibrand said she will reintroduce her Dairy Pricing Opportunity Act, to change Class I milk pricing by requiring the United States Department of Agriculture to hold national hearings to review Federal Milk Marketing Orders.

(Gillibrand 2-2-23)

Senator Gillibrand will pushing Canada to uphold its dairy trade obligations as part of the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement, currently Canada is not allowing American Dairy Farmers to import their product into Canada.

U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development announced $1,162,978 to 2 local homeless housing and services organizations. In New York, HUD awarded a total of $2,042,599.  The Binghamton, Town of Union, Otsego, Chenango, Delaware, Cortland, and Tioga Counties Continuum of Care received $716,456 for Opportunities for Otsego and $446,522 for Catholic Charities of Chenango County.

It was a Basketball Homecoming for Hancock resident Laycee Drake at Binghamton University, Drake plays for The University of Maryland Baltimore County Retrievers, they took on the Lady Bearcats in Binghamton last night, WCDO Sports Director Nate Lull said that drake received tremendous local support last night:

(Nate Lull 2-2-23)

Drake graduated from Hancock on 2021 and finished her High School Career with over 1800 points, she scored 11 point last night, but Binghamton won the game 80-70.

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

A.M. NEWS THURSDAY 2-2-23

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

On Saturday night, Delaware County Sheriff’s Deputies conducted a traffic stop in the Town of Colchester, Deputies identified the driver of the vehicle as 44-year-old Tyrece Williams of Syracuse, who's vehicle registration was suspended, due to an Insurance Lapse. Williams was charged with Operating a Motor Vehicle with a Suspended/Revoked Registration, Aggravated Unlicensed Operator, Failing to turn in license plates into DMV, among other charges, Williams was released and is scheduled to appear in the Town of Colchester Court at a later date.

About a dozen people were arrested at a protest at the Johnson City Wegman's Parking lot last night. People were protesting the police brutality cases of Tyre Nichols in Memphis & the Hamail Waddell keeling incident by Binghamton Police January 1st. Police from the Johnson City, Binghamton and Endicott Police departments, as well as the Broome County sheriffs Deputies and State Troopers responded.

P.M. NEWS FRIDAY 10-21-22

State Police & The Norwich City Police are investigating a situation where an individual entered the Chenango Memorial Hospital Today in need of medical attention from a gun shot wound. Proper protocols were followed at the hospital, Area Schools were also locked down, the public is not in imminent danger, this is an ongoing investigation.

The Greater Oneonta Historical Society’s 16th Annual Live Benefit Auction will be held next Friday, October 28 at the Quality Inn on Route 23 at 5:30 pm. The Society's live online auctions, starts today at 5:00 PM, with a variety of items that will not be at next Friday's live in-person auction, Offerings can be viewed at 32Auctions.com, more information is available at oneontahistory.org, or by calling 607-432-0960.

Catholic Charities in Sidney is continuing to collect items for their “Winter Clothing Drive” to help families in need as the winter approaches. New or Gently used winter coats, gloves, hats can be dropped off at the Sidney Catholic Charities office at 21 Liberty street, Offices in Oneonta & Cobleskill are also collecting.

Governor Kathy Hochul today announced that nearly $30 million has been awarded to help increase capacity at more than 400 existing state-licensed, registered, or permitted child care programs that are located in underserved areas of the state. In the Southern Tier, 12 awards will be issued, totaling over $620,000.

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

A.M. NEWS FRIDAY 10-21-22

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

Otsego Express public transit routes will start charging fares again in November. Over the last 6 months, Otsego County subsidized fares for passengers and funded the program with the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act.

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

(Dennis Walrath 10-21-22)

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

The Jericho Arts Council announced 2 items of interests at the Bainbridge Town Hall Theater & Gallery Saturday Night. Council Spokesman Phil Wade told WCDO News about Moonshine Falls Bluegrass & the new Photography Exhibit in the Gallery:

(Phil Wade 10-21-22)

Reservations for the Concert can be made at (607) 288-3882.

P.M. NEWS FRIDAY 10-14-22

Otsego County Sheriff’s deputies responded to the Dollar General on State Highway 28 in Hartwick for the report of a vehicle running into a utility pole, where the driver fled the scene on foot. Deputies and Cooperstown Police located the driver , 40 year old Kevin Clapper of Fly Creek a short distance from the scene. Clapper was arrested and charged with Aggravated DWI; Leaving the scene of a property damage accident & Consuming alcohol in a motor vehicle among several other charges, He was issued appearance tickets to the Town of Hartwick Court at a later date.

The Binghamton Black Bears Hockey Team of the Federal Prospects Hockey League, will begin their new season Tonight at the Visions Veterans Memorial Arena in Binghamton against Elmira. Team Announcer Brooks Hill said that the team is looking to improve on last year's accomplishments:

(Brooks Hill 10-14-22)

Tickets are available on their website: binghamtonblackbears.com/tickets, or by calling 607-722-7367.

Greater Oneonta Historical Society & Otsego 2000 are sponsoring a Walking Tour of downtown Oneonta on Saturday. The tour will focus on opportunities and threats in the Oneonta Downtown Historic District, which the State Preservation League has named to its bi-annual “7 To Save” list. The tour will leave from the Oneonta History Center at 183 Main Street at 3:00 PM and is by donation. In case of inclement weather, the tour will be held on Sunday.

Tickets for the “Buddy: The Buddy Holly Story” are still available for Saturday Night's Performance at the Forum Theater in Binghamton, Tina Niles of NAC Entertainment explains:

(Tina Niles 10-14-22)

Niles said that the show was well received & well attended last year & they decided to bring it back this season.

The Community Cultural Center in Sidney will feature the Small Town Big Band Saturday night at 8:00 pm, theater Director Dennis Walrath comments:

(Dennis Walrath 10-14-22)

Walrath said that Tickets are available at the door or at cccsidneyart.booktix.com.

A.M. NEWS FRIDAY 10-14-22

The 2022 Hospice & Palliative Care of Chenango County Home Made Sale will be held at their location on Court Street in downtown Norwich tomorrow from 9:30 AM to 3:00 PM, Spokesperson Sarah Green comments:

(Sarah Green 10-10-22)

More information about the home made sale or Hospice is available at 607-334-3556.

Sidney SSAD program & Catholic Charities are teaming up again this year for a 5K/10K Walk run and the Color run, Penny McKnight of Catholic Charities comments:

(Penny McKnight 10-14-22)

The event will be held Sunday at the Sidney High School from 1:00 to 5:00 PM. People can sign up online to participate at runsignup.com.

State Police are looking for 2 people who scammed a clerk at the Owego Speedway October 5th, by engaging in a series of purchases including lottery tickets and Visa cards, stealing over $3,693 from the store. The incident occurred on October 5, and it is believed the pair conducted a similar scam in Johnson City earlier that evening. They may be operating a white Ford sedan. Anyone with information is asked to call (607) 561-7400.

The American Legion of Bainbridge is sponsoring a Flu Shot Clinic today at the Bainbridge Town Hall. The clinic will run from 3:00 PM to 8:00 PM. All individuals must have proper Identification, A Medicare Card or other proof of valid Health Insurance, more information is available at 607-423-2167.

P.M. NEWS TUESDAY 10-11-22

On Sunday, New York State extended the Executive Order to continue to maximize the resources available to protect New Yorkers against polio through vaccination. So far. Only 1 case of polio has been identified, but ongoing wastewater surveillance provides evidence of repeated polio-virus detections in sewage samples throughout the state. The latest wastewater results in Brooklyn & Queens, tested by CDC, found samples genetically linked to the case original case in Rockland County. More information is available at health.ny.gov/polio.

Delaware County Sheriff's Office arrested 40 year old Christopher Lacey of Downsville for Aggravated Unlicensed Operation of a Motor Vehicle, following an investigation into a motor vehicle accident on October 5th on River Road in the Town of Colchester. Deputies reported that the driver left the scene, Walton Police located Lacey, who's driving privileges were revoked for refusing to submit to a chemical test. Lacey was issued an appearance ticket for the Town of Colchester Court at a later date.

The Chenango County Historical Society announced a new membership program with streamlined categories, expanded core benefits, and newly created offerings. Historical Society Director Jessica Moquin explains:

(Jessica Moquin 10-11-22)

The museum’s current seasonal hours are Wednesday through Saturday, from 10 am. to 4 pm. For more information, call (607) 334-9227 or visit www.ChenangoHistorical.org.

Sidney SSAD program & Catholic Charities are teaming up again this year for a 5K/10K Walk run and the Color run, Sidney SSAD coordinator Jonathon Yurka explains that the event is back after a it was suspended due to the pandemic:

(Jonathon Yurka 10-14-22)

The event will be held Sunday at the Sidney High School from 1:00 to 5:00 PM.

Delaware County Sheriff Craig DuMond will continue with the "Coffee With The Sheriff's Office" tomorrow morning in Sidney, he invited area residents to come & talk with members of the Sheriff's Office:

(Sheriff DuMond 10-12-22)

Sheriff DuMond will be at the Trackside Diner on Main Street in Sidney from 9:30 to 10:30 this morning, the next event will be October 19th at the Hancock McDonald's.

The Sidney Elks Lodge will host Veteran's Information & Services Day on November 2nd, at the lodge on River Street in Sidney. A variety of services will be offered, reservations are encouraged at 563-2175.

A.M. NEWS TUESDAY 10-11-22

An American Red Cross blood drive will be conducted today in Oneonta from 11:30 AM to 5:30 PM, on the State University of Oneonta campus at 101 C Alumni Hall, Appointments can be made at the Red Cross Blood Donor App, visiting RedCrossBlood.org or by calling 1-800-RED CROSS.

The 2022 New York State Fallen Firefighters Memorial Ceremony will honor 11 firefighters who gave their lives in the line of duty. The Memorial was dedicated in 1998, to honor fallen firefighters every year in October, it also pays tribute to the more than 100,000 New York State active firefighters who risk their lives every day to protect New Yorkers. Lieutenant Governor Antonio Delgado will deliver remarks at this mornings memorial, starting at 11:00 AM in Albany.

P.M. NEWS FRIDAY 10-7-22

State Police Superintendent Kevin Bruen resigned from his position today, First Deputy Superintendent Steven Nigrelli will serve as Acting Superintendent of the State Police on an interim basis, and a search for a permanent replacement is underway.

State Senator Peter Oberacker announced that community libraries throughout the 51st senatorial district have been awarded a total of over $800,000 in public library construction grant funds. Locally, the Bovina Public Library receives over $74,000, The Edmeston Free Library receives over $246,000, the Huntington Memorial Library receives over $19,000, the Kinney Memorial Library over $6,500

Catholic Charities is holding a winter clothing drive in 3 local counties, Penny McKnight of the Sidney Catholic Charities office explains:

(Penny McKnight 10-7-22)

More information about the clothing drive is available at 607-604-4071.

Members of the Chenango County Farm Bureau recently lobbied lawmakers in Washington regarding a series of agricultural issues, Farm Bureau President Bradd Vickers comments:

(Bradd Vickers 10-7-22)

Vickers said that the issues were discussed in hopes of having the issues possibly resolved in the 2023 US Farm bill.

A.M. NEWS FRIDAY 10-7-22

The Chenango County Historical Society will host a Living History & Industrial Heritage Festival this Saturday at their Norwich location, commemorating the importance of the Chenango Canal, Historical Society Executive Director Jessica Moquin explains:

(Jessica Moquin 10-7-22)

For more information, visit ChenangoHistorical.org or call (607) 334-9227, extension 2.

The Chenango Arts Council will have a performance of the Agatha Christie's "The Mousetrap" Saturday night at 7:00 PM at the Martin W. Kappel Theater in Norwich, spokesperson Mary Beth Miller explains:

(Mary Beth Miller 10-7-22)

Tickets are available at the door, at chenangoarts.org or by calling today at 336-2787.

The Community Cultural Center in Sidney will host a free showing of the Movie "Asteroids" tonight at 8:00 PM, which was made by "Otsego Media" & was shot in Oneonta, Theater Manager Dennis Walrath comments:

(Dennis Walrath 10-7-22)

Walrath said that one or maybe both of the filmmakers will be in attendance tonight.

P.M. NEWS MONDAY 10-3-22

Catholic Charities announced the results of Friday's Community Mass Food Distribution in Sidney. Overall, 684 Households participated, with 1,669 People attending the distribution, 16,968 pounds of food were given out, 34 volunteers participated.

The State Department of Labor announced the next steps in the state’s $15 minimum hourly wage phase-in. The minimum wage rate in local counties will rise by $1 per hour, from $13.20 to $14.20,on December 31st. The Division's analysis found evidence of pressure for wages to rise in the midst of a continued pandemic-driven labor shortage.

Tomorrow On Tuesday, State Senator Fred Akshar, Assemblywoman Donna Lupardo, Johnson City Police Chief Brent Dodge and representatives of the State Department of Transportation will join local officials, family and community members to dedicate a portion of New York Route 17C the Patrolman David 'DW' Smith Memorial Highway in the Village of Johnson City. The dedication will begin at 11:00am at the Johnson City Police Department, Officer Smith served with the Johnson City Police Department for 18 1/2 years, in 2014, he was fatally shot after responding to a disturbance at a local business.

Delaware County Sheriff's Office arrested Catherine Shepler of Jefferson, following an investigation of a reported fraud that occurred in the Town of Stamford. Shepler is accused of intentionally purchasing items on a charge account of the victim, she was arrested & charged with 1 count Forgery & was released on an appearance ticket and is scheduled to return to the Town of Stamford Court at a later date to answer the charge.

The Chenango County Sheriff's Office has received numerous complaints involving a scam that is occurring nationwide. The callers are identifying themselves as Chenango County Sheriff's Office personnel and informing people by phone that they have an active arrest warrant and requesting gift cards be sent to rectify the outstanding warrant. Chenango County Sheriff's Office personnel will never call to request money or gift cards for any criminal matters.

A.M. NEWS Monday 10-3-22

State Police are searching for 16 year old Connor McLean of Peru New York, who was last seen on September 27th, at 8:00 pm near his residence. McLean is approximately 5’10 feet tall, and weighs approximately 190 pounds, he was wearing blue hoodie, shorts, brown slippers with socks, & was carrying a black backpack. Anyone with any information is asked to please contact State Police at 518-563-3761

State Police are looking to identify 2 people in connection with a September 4th report of a wallet that was stolen from the Mount Upton Dollar General.. The wallet that was stolen from a cart, A woman is seen in surveillance video taking the wallet, a male is with her while at the store. The empty wallet was later found at a gas pump at Speedway at State Routes 7 and 8, & was turned in to the store by a patron, Anyone with information is asked to call State Police at (607)-561-7400, Pictures of the people in question can be viewed at the WCDO Facebook page.

State Police responded to a report that an 85-year-old woman with dementia left her residence on foot several hours prior and could not be located. An organized search was formed in the town of Andes. Troopers and New York State Police K9 were assisted by State Forest Rangers and Delhi Village Police. The woman was located deceased about a mile from her residence, There is no indication of any foul play.

State Department of Labor Commissioner Roberta Reardon issued an order accepting the recommendation of the Farm Laborers Wage Board to lower the current 60-hour threshold for overtime pay to 40 hours per week by January 1, 2032, allowing 10 years to phase in the new threshold, following a 2-year process and 14 public meetings and hearings. Farm work in excess of 40 hours per week would be required to be compensated at overtime rates, as it is in other occupations.

Broadway in Binghamton announced today that the individual tickets for Fiddler on the Roof, on November 8 & 9 at 7:30 PM at the FORUM THEATRE will go on sale today, at 10:00 AM. Tickets can be purchased in person at the Arena Box Office or through Ticketmaster. For more information visit BroadwayInBinghamton.com.

P.M. NEWS THURSDAY 9-29-22

State Police arrested 27 year old Gerard Bourgeois of Otego for 2nd degree Burglary & 3rd degree Arson, Police responded on Monday just before 8:00 PM to a report of a suspicious person in the area of Pleasant Valley Road in the town of Hartwick, troopers heard smoke alarms & observed smoke coming from a residence on Bunn Hill Road. The troopers notified area Firefighters & entered the home, they found an active fire at a gas stove, they could not turn off the stove due to the damage to the controls, & instead turned the propane tanks outside. Troopers responded to another report of a suspicious person near the Hartwick Restaurant on State Highway 205, when they located Bourgeois. Bourgeois was arraigned at Otsego County Centralized Arraignment and remanded to the Otsego County Jail on $5,000 cash bail or $10,000 bond pending court action on October 12th.

Otsego County Sheriff's Office arrested 42 year old Katherina Cassata of Gilbertsville for 9 counts of Animal Cruelty after a search warrant was executed on September 16th, regarding an ongoing animal cruelty investigation. Cassata was charged with 9 counts of Overdriving, Abuse of Animals & Failure to Provide Sustenance, the investigation revealed that there were deceased animals were on the property and the remaining animals were malnourished. The animals were removed to the Susquehanna SPCA, the seizure included 19 horses, 2 pigs, a llama, a donkey, and a cat, plus a deceased alpaca was found on the property. Cassata was issued an Appearance Ticket returnable to the Town of Butternuts Court at a later date.

Another Community Mass Food Distribution is being held Friday morning at the Sidney Fire Station at 11:00 AM on Union Street, Catholic Charities spokesperson Penny McKnight explains:

(Penny McKnight 9-30-22)

McKnight said that the mass food distribution started early last year, an average of 9 to 12 tons of food has been given away at each of the distributions.

Governor Hochul announced plans to expand the availability of funding and resources to support local health departments in hopes of establishing immunization clinics, sending vaccines to health care partners and conducting outreach to unvaccinated New Yorkers in the battle against Polio. Currently, health departments are monitoring wastewater to find the polio virus, they encourage New Yorkers to get vaccinated as soon as possible. Wastewater surveillance results are available at health.ny.gov.

Chenango County is experiencing a 40% increase in cases of Chlamydia and Gonorrhea, with 26 new cases reported in the last month, 18 of the cases were Chlamydia and 7 were Gonorrhea, and 1 was a coinfection. More information about these & other sexually transmitted diseases is available at health.ny.gov, or cdc.gov or by calling the Chenango County Health Department at (607) 337-1660.

A.M. NEWS Thursday 9-29-22

State Police arrested 22 year old Corey Sawyer of Norwich for allegedly stabbing 2 people in Chenango County. Sawyer was charged with 2 counts each of Attempted Murder & 2nd degree Assault and 4 counts of Endangering the Welfare of a Child. Troopers responded Wednesday to a residence on State Route 80 in the town of Otselic just before 1:30 AM, Sawyer is accused of stabbing 2 people with a knife during a domestic dispute, The victims were both taken to Chenango Memorial Hospital then later transported to Wilson Medical Center, with non-life-threatening injuries. 3 children under the age of 17 were at the residence when the incident occurred. Sawyer was transported to Chenango Memorial Hospital due to injuries he sustained prior to Trooper’s arrival. He was treated and released, he was arraigned & was remanded to the Chenango County Jail on $250-thousand cash bail, $500-thousand bond or $1-million partially secured bond. His next court date was set for October 4th.

2 Federal Inmates at the Delaware County Correctional Facility were arrested following an assault within the Delaware County Corrections Facility. On Thursday, September 22nd, members of the Criminal Investigation Division responded to the Correctional Facility, the Investigation revealed that 31-year-old Daquan Dowdell and 45-year-old Rashawn Wynn, both of Syracuse punched another Inmate in the face, which caused the serious physical injury. Wynn and Dowdell each with one count of 2nd degree Assault, they were arraigned and were remanded back to the Delaware County Correctional Facility pending other charges.

The Otsego County Sheriff's Office arrested 36 year old Robert Furman of Laurens following a traffic stop in the town of Oneonta, for Aggravated Unlicensed Operator. Furman was issued traffic tickets and released, he will appear in the Town of Oneonta Court on a later date.

P.M. NEWS TUESDAY 7-26-22

State Police reported that 79 year old RoseMarie Windisch of Jefferson was the driver of a vehicle that veered into the opposing lane & hit a Flatbed Truck July 21st. Windisch was pronounced dead at the scene, on State Route 23 in the Town of Roxbury, The flatbed truck operators was unable to avoid the collision, & was treated at Bassett Medical Center in Cooperstown for non-life-threatening injuries.

State Police were requested to check the welfare of 62 year old Theodore Hammer of Unadilla Monday, he was located in a creek near his residence on Martin Brook Road in Unadilla. The investigation into the cause of his death is continuing.

The State Department of Labor today released preliminary local area unemployment rates for June 2022. Locally, Chenango County had 3% unemployment, Delaware County 3.5% & Otsego County 3.1% unemployment in June, the state Unemployment was at 4.4%.

Catholic Charities announced another successful Mass Food Distribution in Sidney on July 19th. 623 Households received food, 36 Families had 6 people or more in their household, a total of 1,742 People received over 17,000 pounds of food. 58 volunteers helped distribute the food at latest Sidney event.

The Chenango County Historical Society announced their Summer Barn Party, to be held from 6:00 to 8:30 PM on Friday August 5th in the Society’s Loomis Barn, at 41 Rexford Street in Norwich. Event proceeds will support a significant portion of the organization’s annual operating budget. Early bird tickets are $39 each at ChenangoHistorical.org through this Friday July 29.

Nyseg reported that the number of people without power locally was about 45 this afternoon, after crews have worked since Sunday to restore power. Downed trees & power lines caused thousands of power outages following Sunday's Storms.

The State Health Department reported that the positivity rate from the latest strains of COVID 19 is still just under 10% state wide. Patient Hospitalizations continue to increase back up to 2,649, there are 253 ICU patients, 79 on ventilators, there were 24 more deaths reported in Hospitals & nursing homes from COVID 19.

The Alzheimer's Association Walk to End Alzheimer will be held in Oneonta at Neahwa Park on September 25th this year, which is a key fundraiser for the Association, Spokesperson Ann Thayer told WCDO News that while the event is 2 months away, people can start forming teams to participate right now:

(Ann Thayer 7-26-22)

More information about the Leatherstocking/Oneonta Walk on Sunday, September 25th, or other programs, can be found by calling Thayer at 607-206-4514. at Neahwa Park in Oneonta. We hope you'll join and add your flower to our Walk.

A.M. NEWS TUESDAY 7-26-22

State Police responded to a shooting in the town of Union Monday night. An adult male was found to have been shot in the chest and was transported to Wilson Memorial Hospital in Johnson City, The 40-year-old victim suffered non-life-threatening injuries.  There is no threat to the public and the investigation is on-going.  Anyone with information is asked to call State Police at (607)561-7400.

Governor Kathy Hochul today announced that nearly $70 million in grant funding has been awarded to newly licensed, registered or permitted child care programs in areas lacking child care slots, The funds were made available through the American Rescue Plan Act and are administered by the State Office of Children and Family Services. In the Southern Tier, $4,148,000 in grant funding will go to 26 child care facilities.

The State DOT announced that the Exit 5 ramp from southbound I-81 to U.S. Route 11 and the intersection of Route 11 and Old Front Street in the Town of Dickinson, is closed for about 10 days to accommodate construction of a new roundabout. Variable Messaging Signs are in place advising motorists of detours, Travelers should anticipate delays and allow for extra travel time.

P.M. NEWS MONDAY 7-18-22

18 year old Payton Gendron of Conklin was arraigned today on a federal indictment, for the May 14th Mass Shooting at a Buffalo Tops Supermarket that killed 10 & wounded 3 others. Gendron was arraigned on a 27-count indictment which was handed up last week, he could face the federal death penalty for the shooting. Gendron also faces a state charges in addition to the federal indictment.

Catholic Charities announced another Community Mass Food Distribution, will be held tomorrow in Sidney, spokesperson Penny McKnight comments:

(Penny McKnight 7-18-22)

The Mass Food Distribution will be held at the Sidney Fire Station on River Street starting at 11:00 AM.

The Chenango United Way will join with the Madison County United Way shortly, following a recent merger plan with the Delaware & Otsego County Chapters. Elizabeth Monaco will be Executive Director of the 4 county chapter going forward, she told WCDO News that this type of merger is becoming necessary:

(Elizabeth Monaco 7-18-22)

Monaco said that after the mergers are all official, a new name for the 4 county United way will be announced early next year.

The National Weather Service has confirmed that a tornado touched down in Ulster County on Wednesday, July 13, shortly before 9:00PM. Investigators determined that the EF-1 tornado with 90 mile per hour winds touched down 2 miles west of Kingston, near State Route 29, it then moved southeast to just west of the NY State Thruway where it uprooted and snapped trees, displaced a car canopy. Many homes were damaged by fallen trees, thousands lost power from the storm.

The Bainbridge Chamber of Commerce will hold their next meeting tomorrow Morning. The meeting will begin at 7:30 am at the back of Bob's Diner, chamber members are urged to attend.

A.M. NEWS MONDAY 7-18-22

State Police reported that Route 7 in Oneonta has been reopened, following an incident Sunday. Police said that no injuries were sustained, More details will be released Today as the investigation is still on-going. State Police were on scene for 23 hours at State Route 7 near Emmons Hill Road.

STATE POLICE reported that In the month of June, members from Troop "C" removed 44 impaired drivers off the roadways. Troop "C" encompasses 7 counties, they had removed 41 impaired drivers the month before.

State tax receipts totaled $34.4 billion through the first quarter of State Fiscal Year 22-23, exceeding the Division of the Budget's forecast by $1.7 billion, according to the monthly State Cash Report released by State Comptroller Tom DiNapoli. Some of the increase can be attributed to inflation, The full report can be found at osc.state.ny.us.

P.M. NEWS THURSDAY 6-30-22

The Broome County Sheriff's Office is looking for Alexa Woolfolk, she is described as a white female, 5'3 tall, 145 pounds with brown hair and eyes, she is wanted on an outstanding warrant for probation violation and criminal possession of a controlled substance. Anyone with information to her location is asked to contact the Broome County Sheriff's Office at (607) 778-1911.

The state DEC is not doing enough to ensure rechargeable batteries are recycled as required by law, according to an audit by State Comptroller Tom DiNapoli. Rechargeable batteries can contain toxic metals such as mercury, lead, cadmium, nickel and silver, and lithium-ion, all of which can pose a threat to the environment and human health and safety if they are not properly recycled. If they’re just put in the garbage and enter the waste stream, they can end up in landfills and their chemicals can leak into public water systems, lakes and streams. Lithium-ion batteries can ignite or explode if they are damaged in the waste stream and were the cause of a six-alarm fire on a trash barge in December 2021.

Catholic Charities in Sidney announced that their free Backpack with School Supplies giveaway will be available again this year, spokesperson Penny McKnight explains:

(Penny McKnight 6-30-22)

Preregistration begins July 11th by calling the Sidney Office of Catholic Charities at 607-604-4071, or by stopping by their office in the Sidney Civic Center.

The Norwich DRI Local Planning Committee will be holding their next meeting on Tuesday, July 12th at 3:30 PM in the Community Room at Commerce Chenango at 15 South Broad Street in Norwich. At this meeting, the LPC will officially vote on the final slate of projects to be recommended for DRI funding and included in Norwich’s Strategic Investment Plan. This meeting is open to all members of the public, with time reserved at the end of the meeting for public comment. The meeting will also be available through ZOOM.

A.M. NEWS THURSDAY 6-30-22

Governor Kathy Hochul has signed a proclamation calling lawmakers back to Albany for a special session Today, after the Supreme Court deemed New York State’s concealed carry law unconstitutional because it required proper cause to carry a handgun outside a person’s home.

The State Health Department is reporting a slow increase in COVID 19 cases, with over 5800 positives tests out of over 72,000, for a 7.8.% positivity rate Tuesday. Patient Hospitalization have gone back over 2000 statewide, ICU patients were back up to 186, with 73 on ventilators, there were 12 deaths in hospitals & nursing homes.

The Chenango County Historical Society in Norwich has extended Saturday hours through October 8th and they are seeking volunteers. More information & a volunteer application can be found at ChenangoHistorical.org.

P.M. NEWS MONDAY 6-27-22

The Afton Fair will run from Thursday July 7th through Sunday July 10th this year, Spokesperson Rhonda Barriger explains:

(Rhonda Barriger 6-27-22)

This year is the 133rd edition of the Afton fair, at the Fairgrounds, more information is available at 607-639-1525 or theaftonfair.com.

Catholic Charities announced another Community Mass Food Distribution, to be held on July 19th in Sidney, spokesperson Penny McKnight said that volunteers are needed to assist with the distribution:

(Penny McKnight 6-27-22)

The Mass Food Distribution will be held at the Sidney Fire Station on River Street starting at 11:00 AM.

The 1st Primary Elections of 2022 will be held tomorrow around the state, with Polls open from 6:00 AM to 9:00 PM. The Democratic and Republican primaries for New York Governor are on the ballot. For the Democratic primary only, the primary race for lieutenant governor is on the ballot. State Assembly Primaries will also be held tomorrow in New York State. Congressional & State Senate Primaries will be held on August 23rd.

Governor Kathy Hochul today announced the opening of the initial intake tool to help small businesses determine their eligibility for the COVID-19 Capital Costs Tax Credit Program. The $250 million Program will support small businesses that made investments to comply with emergency orders and regulations or to increase public safety in response to COVID-19. If deemed eligible by the screening tool, a link to the application will be provided when the program application opens, more information is available at formrouter.apps.esd.ny.gov.

A.M. NEWS MONDAY 6-27-22

Governor Hochul is bringing state lawmakers back to Albany on Thursday to consider gun safety legislation in response to the Supreme Court striking down key portions of the state's licensing law. The court on Thursday overturned the state law that required that people applying for a concealed carry permit demonstrate a specific need to have a gun in public. New York officials are considering restrictions on concealed carry in “sensitive locations,” such as government buildings and bars. They're also looking at implementing specific training for permit applicants, among other options.

$178.8 million has been awarded to 75 communities across New York State for projects that promote environmentally friendly modes of travel and make it easier and safer to walk, bike or hike. Locally, $5,000,000 will go to the City of Oneonta to construct sidewalks and shoulders for pedestrians and bicycles along State Routes 23 and 28.

The Chenango County Heath Department is hosting a free COVID booster clinic at 33 Borden Avenue in Norwich today from 1:00 to 3:00 PM. No Appointment is necessary, more information is available at 607-337-1660.

P.M. NEWS WEDNESDAY 5-11-22

The Binghamton Police Department announced the arrested of 28 year old Justin Williams of Greenville North Carolina in connection with a fatal shooting at 58 Floral Avenue Tuesday morning. Williams was charged with 2nd degree murder and criminal possession of a weapon for the shooting death of 31-year-old Victor Texidor of Binghamton. Williams was stopped by a Pennsylvania State Trooper who spotted Williams Vehicle on Interstate 81 near Gibson. Williams was arraigned in Binghamton City Court and remanded to the Broome County Jail. Anyone with information is asked to contact Binghamton detectives at 607-772-7080.

The Delaware County Sheriff's Office announced the arrest of 46 year old Gweyn Brockway of Davenport on charges of Forgery and Grand Larceny in the Town of Sidney. Brockway was working as a Home Health Care nurse, she was accused of stealing, forging and depositing checks owned by a patient and her family, totaling over $17,000. Brockway and charged her with 21 counts of Forgery and 1 Count of Grand Larceny, she was issued appearance tickets for Town of Sidney Court at a later date.

U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand announced that she will vote in favor to codify the Roe Vs. Wade Supreme Court decision, when it comes up for a vote today:

(Gillibrand 5-11-22)

Senator Gillibrand said that she doesn't expect that the legislation will pass the 60 vote threshold in the Senate today, she said that she supports the State Legislature's efforts to have New York State continue to allow for Abortions in spite of the expected Supreme Court's actions.

Catholic Charities announced another Community Mass Food Distribution on May 24th at 11:00 AM at the River Street Fire Station in Sidney, spokesperson Penny McKnight told WCDO News that volunteers are needed on the 24th:

(Penny McKnight 5-11-22)

Those planning on attending the Mass Food Distribution are asked to not arrive before the 11:00 AM start time, in order to avoid traffic issues & large crowds.

New Yorkers will have to wait until August to vote in the primary elections for Congressional Seats and State Senate Seats, following a a ruling by U.S. District Judge Gary Sharpe of Albany on Tuesday. The Primaries for governor and the state Assembly are still scheduled for June. A state judge and an independent expert are now drawing up new maps, which were ordered after a judge ruled that Democrats gerrymandered the maps to get more representation & ordered new maps be drawn.

A.M. NEWS Wednesday 5-11-22

Antonio Delgado announced today that the Delgado for New York campaign committee is officially open, with a new campaign website, delgadoforny.com. Delgado will be on the ticket with Governor Hochul in the June 28th primary and the November 8th general election. Delgado has until June 1st to formally resign from Congress, to then allow another Democratic Party Candidate to run for the 19th Congressional District, The primary for that race will be in August.

STATE POLICE Troop C Commander officer, Major Jeffrey VanAuken, announced that In the month of April members from Troop "C" removed 46 impaired drivers off the roadways. Troop "C" encompasses 7 counties, including Broome, Chenango, Delaware & Otsego Counties.

P.M. NEWS TUESDAY 3-29-22

Catholic Charities announced that there will be another Mass Food Distribution in Sidney tomorrow, Penny McKnight from Catholic Charities explains:

(Penny McKnight 3-9-22)

McKnight said that the past Mass Food Distributions gave away 9 to 12 tons of food on average, more information is available at 607-604-4071.

The Chenango River Theatre announced its lineup of 4 shows this year in Greene, Spokesman Zach Curtis told WCDO News about the shows:

(Zach Curtis 3-29-22)

Curtis said that more information about the shows & tickets are available at chenangorivertheatre.org.

The State Labor Department released local Unemployment information for the Month of February today. The Statewide Unemployment rate dropped .4% to 4.9%, locally Chenango County reported 4.2%, Otsego & Delaware Counties both reported 4.3% unemployment in February.

Delaware County Sheriff’s Deputies observed a vehicle Sunday, traveling 55 miles per hour in a 30 mile and hour zone on Meredith Street in the Village of Delhi. Deputies identified the driver as 29-year-old Toni Savino of Sidney, the investigation revealed that Savino’s driving privileges were suspended for failure to pay a driver’s responsibility assessment. Savino was arrested and charged with Aggravated Unlicensed Operator, Unlicensed Operator and Speeding, she was released and directed to appear in the Town of Delhi Court on a later date to answer the charges.

Delaware County Sheriff Deputies’ observed a vehicle traveling 90 miles an hour in a 55 Mile an hour zone, on State Hwy 17 in the Village of Hancock on March 22nd. Deputies identified the operator as 24 year old Malik Oliver of East Stroudsburg, Pennsylvania, Oliver’s operating privileges in New York had been suspended for failure to answer a summons in Brooklyn & there was an active Arrest Warrant for Oliver, issued by the Johnson City Court. Oliver was charged with Aggravated Unlicensed Operation of a Motor Vehicle & Speeding, he was released and is to appear in the Village of Hancock Court to answer the said charges at a later date, he was turned over to the Johnson City Police Department on the Arrest Warrant.

A.M. NEWS Tuesday 3-29-22

The American Red Cross has resumed testing all blood, platelet and plasma donations for COVID-19 antibodies. Plasma from routine donations that have high levels of COVID-19 antibodies may be used as convalescent plasma to help meet the needs of COVID-19 patients with weakened immune systems. The Red Cross reports that blood supplies remains low & individuals are urged to schedule a blood or platelet donation. The next blood drive locally will be in Sidney today from 2:00 to 6:00 PM at the Sidney Elks Lodge at 104 River Street. To make an appointment, use the Red Cross Blood Donor App, visit RedCrossBlood.org or call 1-800-RED CROSS.

The North American Tour of SUMMER: The Donna Summer Musical will make its Binghamton premiere at the Forum Theatre March 29 & 30 at 7:30PM each night as part of the M&T Bank Broadway Season. Tickets can be purchased at the Arena Box Office, Ticketmaster or online at BroadwayInBinghamton.com. Shows are tonight & tomorrow night at the Forum.

Governor Kathy Hochul announced the opening of the 2022 New York State Master Teacher program. The program is a network of more than 1,400 outstanding public-school teachers throughout the state who are recognized for their dedication to providing the most innovative STEM education to their students.

P.M. NEWS WEDNESDAY 3-9-22

The Tri-County Area received more snow than expected today, local Meteorologist Rich Townsend explains:

(Rich Townsend 3-9-22)

Local Law Enforcement & Emergency crews have responded to many accidents across the region today, they advise motorists to slow down & use extra caution.

Chenango County Sheriff's Office arrested 36 year old Daniel Rice of Plymouth for allegedly attempting to have sexual relations with a 15 year old female. Deputies responded following a complaint of a man making arrangements to perform sexual acts with a 15 year old victim in the Town of Norwich. Rice was charged with Attempted Rape & Attempted Dissemination of Indecent Material to a Minor, he was arraigned in the Town of Norwich Court and remanded to the Chenango County Correctional Facility on $20,000 cash bail. Rice is due back in the Town of Norwich Court at a later date.

Authorities in Pennsylvania are looking for 42 year old Jeffrey Johnson of Hancock. The Wayne County Drug Task Force announced that Johnson is facing charges of possession of weapons of mass destruction, Unlawful Possession of a Firearm, Risking Catastrophe, Possession of Controlled Substance, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, and a variety of game violations. Law Enforcement officials said that during their search for Johnson, they discovered white-tailed deer hanging in the backyard with no visible harvest tags, they also discovered deer & wild turkey parts, and the remains of black bear, they also discovered a pipe bomb, rifles, ammunition, and drug paraphernalia, Johnson did not have a hunting license and was not permitted to own firearms. The Scranton bomb squad was notified and detonated the bomb on location. Anyone with information about Johnson's whereabouts are asked to contact the Wayne County Communications Center at (570) 253-3109.

The State Comptroller's office announced that Federal Relief Aid paid to New York State reversed the usual trend last year, when New York State sent more money to Washington than it received. In 2021, New York Received $1.59 for Every Tax Dollar Sent to Washington, Federal Fiscal Year 2020, Still Below National Average of $1.92. New York’s Per Capita Balance of Payments Rank Among States Rises to 40th from Near Last Place

Catholic charities announced that there will be another Mass Food Distribution in Sidney later this month. Penny McKnight from Catholic Charities said that volunteers are needed:

(Penny McKnight 3-9-22)

The Mass Food Distribution will be at 11:00 AM at the Sidney River Street Fire Station, anyone interested in volunteering should email CALLEN4@stny.rr.ccom or call Catholic Charities at 607-604-4071.

Due to today's Storm, the Town of Guilford Board meeting, originally scheduled for tonight, has been moved to tomorrow night, at 7:00 At the Town Hall on Marble Road.

A.M. NEWS WEDNESDAY 3-9-22

The State Health Department reported that 67,714 COVID tests were conducted Monday, with 1,060 positives, for a positivity rate of 1.57%. Patient Hospitalization were 1,507, with 251 Patients in ICU and 138 on ventilators & 17 deaths in Hospitals & Nursing homes.

Nyseg reports about 1200 without power this afternoon in Chenango, Delaware, Otsego & Broome Counties, from Monday Night's storm & high winds. crews will continue to work today to return power to customers.

Community Cultural Center in Sidney won a $2,000 grant from Upstate Shredding through their Southern Tier Tuesdays program. Southern Tier Tuesdays is a philanthropic endeavor of Adam Weitsman, owner of Upstate Shredding, more information is available at southerntiertuesdays.com.

P.M. NEWS THURSDAY 1-6-22

Local Lawmakers responded to Governor Kathy Hochul's State of The State Address delivered Wednesday in Albany, Local Assemblyman Joe Angelino commented about his top 3 priorities for the 2022 session:

(Joe Angelino 1-6-22)

Governor Hochul did not specifically mention the Bail reform Law, but did discuss term limits for the state's top officials & installing a new Ethics panel to replace the failed J-Cope panel.

Catholic Charities of Sidney announced another Community partnership Mass Food Distribution to be held January 26th at 11:00 AM at the River Street Fire Station in Sidney, Spokesperson Jordan Fradenburgh explains:

(Jordan Fradenburgh 1-6-22)

Other organizations assisting with the Food Distribution include the Regional Food Bank, United Way, Salvation Army & the Village of Sidney.

Bassett Healthcare Network is holding a COVID-19 vaccine and flu vaccine clinic at the Edmeston Central School gymnasium on Saturday, January 15th from 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM. Vaccinations offered include the Pfizer and Moderna 1st, 2nd, and booster shots; Pediatric Pfizer COVID Vaccines, as well as Flu shots; the event is open to the public. Recipients do not need to be established Bassett patients & no appointments are necessary. More information is available at bassett.org/covid-19.

In the last two days Delaware County has had a surge of positive covid-19 cases with 98 new positive cases on Tuesday & 121 Positives on Wednesday, there was 1 more COVID 19 death attributed to the virus. Delaware County Public Health announced that a limited number of COVID test kits for the public, have arrived from the State, the Office of Emergency Services is distributing the allotments to town offices. Residents are asked to Contact their town clerk's office for distribution information. Positive home tests are now able to be reported to the Delaware County Public Health Services, to delcony.us/coronavirus/#ReportTest and delawarecountypublichealth.com. More information is available at 607-832-5200.

Firefighters from Oneonta, Franklin & other surrounding communities responded this afternoon to a fire at the Motel 88 at 340 Chestnut Street in Oneonta. The fire was under control in a little more than an hour, the cause of the fire is under investigation.

A.M. NEWS Thursday 1-6-22

State Police took 29 year old Anthony Masi into custody Wednesday afternoon on an arrest warrant for 1st Degree Assault. The warrant stems from a serious assault that occurred in Oneonta after Masi allegedly attacked a victim with a machete-type knife at the Budget Inn on State Route 23 on December 30th, the investigation is continuing.

Delaware County Public Health will be conducting a COVID-19 vaccination clinic for people 18 and older on Today at 97 Main Street, Delhi. Moderna 1st or 2nd doses will only be available from 2:00 to 4:00 PM for walk-ins only. Moderna boosters will be available from 2:00 to 4:00 PM, registration is required at apps2.health.ny.gov, and more information is available at 607-832-5200.

CDO Workforce is partnering with Otsego County Chamber of Commerce, Commerce Chenango, and Delaware County Economic Development to host a ZOOM webinar: “Workforce Services for Businesses” on January 12th at 11:00AM, CDO Workforce Spokesperson Alice Savino explains:

(Alice Savino 1-6-22)

Businesses get more information through CDO Workforce, the Otsego County Chamber, Commerce Chenango or the Delaware County Economic development to get the ZOOM link.

The Village of Sidney is seeking applications for the our Animal Control Officer position, Applications can be picked up at the Village of Sidney Clerk's Office, Monday - Friday 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM, more information is available at 607-561-2323.

P.M. NEWS MONDAY 9-27-21

The Annual Spiedie Fest has been moved to October this year, at the Otsiningo Park in Binghamton, organizer Dave Pessagno told WCDO News that they still have a full line up of events & activities:

(Dave Pessagno 9-27-21)

Pessagno said that more information & updates will be posted at spiedie fest .com.

Catholic Charities in Sidney will hold another Community Mass Food Distribution tomorrow in Sidney at 11:00 AM, spokesperson Penny McKnight explains:

(Penny McKnight 9-28-21)

McKnight said that they have averaged between 9 & 12 tons of food at the previous 4 food distributions At the Sidney River Street Fire Station.

Funeral Services were held this morning in Utica, for long time area Congressman Sherwood Boehlert.  Boehlert served as the Oneida County Executive before running for Congress, where he served for 24 years before retiring in 2006.  Boehlert is survived by his wife Marianne, 4 children, and 6 grandchildren, Boehlert was 84.

Delaware County Sheriff's Deputies responded to Thursday Betty Brook Road in the Town of Kortright to investigate a complaint of property damage reportedly caused by cattle.  The Investigation revealed that loose cattle owned by 60-year-old Joseph Wyble, Jr., had caused damage to victim’s lawn on that day and at least 3 previous occasions.  On Friday, Deputies located and arrested Wyble and charged him with criminal mischief for recklessly causing damage to the property of another after having been previously warned by Deputies.  Wyble was issued an appearance ticket directing him to appear in the Town of Kortright Court on a later date to answer that charge.

41 year old Jeremie Hoyt of Davenport appeared in federal court last week on charges that he sexually exploited a child.  Hoyt is accused of producing a sexually explicit photograph and video of a 14-year-old child, and distributing the image and video on the Internet to other users on a messaging application.  Hoyt was ordered to be held pending a trial, if convicted, Hoyt faces a mandatory minimum term of imprisonment of 15 years and a maximum term of imprisonment of 30 years, a maximum fine of $250,000, and a term of supervised release of between 5 years and life.

Otsego County Department of Health reported its 69th death last week, with 115 active cases and 4 people hospitalized.  The 7-day rolling average positive rate was 2.8%.

A.M. NEWS MONDAY 9-27-21

The State Health Department reported over 180,000 COVID tests were reported Saturday, with over 4300 positive tests, a positivity rate now down to 2.39%.  Hospitalizations were down to about 2300, patients in ICU beds declined to 548 & patients on ventilators are down to 317, there were 31 deaths & 55,911 Vaccine Doses were administered Saturday.

Delaware County reported 46 new COVID cases Thursday & Friday, with a positivity rate over 9%, they reported 185 active cases, 363 quarantined 7 hospitalized & 54 deaths.  Just over 50% of Delaware County residents are vaccinated, while 77% of positive cases were unvaccinated.  25% of the cases are school aged children & school district employees.

Chenango County Sheriff's Office announced that 13 year old Charlotte Heier of the Town of Smithville has been located successfully.  The Office announced this morning that Charlotte was located in good health, & they thanked the public for help with the successful investigation.

State Comptroller Tom DiNapoli, Cortland County DA’s office and State Police announced that former Pharsalia Town Supervisor Dennis Brown was sentenced to serve 2 to 3 years in a state prison. Brown pleaded guilty for 2nd degree Grand Larceny, for stealing $240,000 in public funds, he was ordered to pay $240,000, and he has already paid $125,000.  Brown charged personal items on the town’s credit card to pay for groceries, vacations, clothes, jewelry, home utilities, and work on his property.

P.M. NEWS WEDNESDAY 9-22-21

State Police announced today that 22 year old Michael Andreev Jr. has been charged with 2 counts of 2nd degree murder & 1 count of criminal possession of a weapon, for allegedly stabbing his father, 67 year old Michael Andreev Sr. and 12-year-old sister, Sofia Trusova in Jordanville Sunday.  State Police said that they found Andreev Jr. in the front yard of the family residence with a neck laceration Sunday, he was taken to a Syracuse Hospital for treatment, and he was discharged today & was taken into police custody, he was processed and was being held in the Herkimer County Jail without bail, the investigation is still ongoing.

The State Senate hearings into New York's election difficulties concluded in Albany Tuesday.  Several County Board of Elections reported problems in the 22nd Congressional District race Between Anthony Brindisi & Claudia Tenney, which took weeks to decide in court; eventually Tenney was declared the winner.  Reforms may be forwarded in the State Senate based on the findings in the latest hearings.

Melissa Stagnaro has been named Executive Director of the Chenango Memorial Hospital Foundation; she succeeds Deb Cassavaugh, who retired this summer.  Stagnaro joined the UHS Chenango Memorial Hospital team in December of 2017 as Director of Fundraising & Business Development, she led the Chenango Medical Neighborhood Capital Campaign, which to date has raised in excess of $6 million, twice the campaign’s initial goal.

The Chenango Arts Council will have their current gallery exhibit continuing for local residents who went to School when the Chenango Arts Council Building was a school building in the Norwich City School District, Council Executive Director Alecia O'Neill explains:

(Alecia O'Neill 9-22-21)

O'Neill said that the exhibit will run through October 1st, and that will be followed by a series of Halloween themed events in October, the full list of events can be found at chenangoarts.org, on their Facebook page of by calling 336-ARTS.

Catholic Charities in Sidney is helping to administer the New York State Excluded Worker Fund, for those who lost income because of the COVID 19 pandemic.  Those who would like assistance in applying, or who would like more information can call 604-4071 or 353-5732, or visit dol.ny.gov/EWF.

A.M. NEWS WEDNESDAY 9-22-21

Governor Kathy Hochul announced 120 new "VaxtoSchool" pop-up vaccination sites will take place across New York over a 12-week-period as part of the campaign to increase vaccination rates among younger New Yorkers.   The State Department of Health will be working with localities, community-based organizations and healthcare centers to establish these new sites in all regions of the state, each region will be hosting 2 new events per week.

The State Department of Transportation will hold a public meeting today at 5:30 PM, to present the design plans for improvements to pavement, sidewalks and drainage on State Route 7 in the Village of Otego.   The project will enhance bicycle and pedestrian safety and improve resiliency along Main Street from the I-88 ramps to the Otsdawa Creek Bridge.  The in-person event will take place at the Otego Fire Department at 5 River Street in Otego.  To join online, open the project website at dot.ny.gov/Route7Otego and click on the "Attend Live Public Meeting", more information is available at 772-7333.

The New York State Department of State and the Division of Consumer Protection warned New Yorkers of a fraudulent letter scheme. These illegitimate letters have the heading “Executive Letter of Guarantee” and claim that recipients are due to receive a large payment, supposedly being held by the Department of State, to settle debts relating to the sale of timeshares.  The letters are not genuine and were not issued by the Secretary of State.

P.M. NEWS TUESDAY 9-14-21

Chenango County Sheriff's Office responded to a fatal 2-car motor vehicle accident on County Road 36 in the Town of Guilford Monday.  Investigators reported that 22-year-old Dominique Brissett of Walkill was traveling north bound on County Road 36 and collided with an SUV operated by 23-year-old Rachel Feyh of Sidney.  Brissett was pronounced dead on the scene, Feyh was air lifted by Life Net to SUNY Upstate Medical in Syracuse, where she was listed in critical but stable condition. The investigation into the cause of the motor vehicle accident is still ongoing.

The state has made progress in making high-speed connections available to New Yorkers, ranking 2nd in the U.S. in the percentage of the population with broadband available in their neighborhood, but more than one million, or 13.8%, of households do not have access or a subscription to home broadband services, according to a report released today by State Comptroller Tom DiNapoli.  The report finds that predominantly rural areas remain underserved by broadband infrastructure, approximately 1 in 3 New York households with income less than $20,000 lacked access to broadband at home.   The entire report can be found at osc.state.ny.us.

Governor Kathy Hochul today announced significant progress with the Emergency Rental Assistance Program and the Excluded Workers Program. The amount of pandemic-related emergency rental assistance paid out has nearly doubled in the past 3 weeks, up to $399 million, enabling tenants at risk for eviction to stay in their homes and helping struggling landlords to receive unpaid rent. Starting tomorrow, middle-income renters previously ineligible for assistance can begin applying for funding through the Emergency Rental Assistance Program, also Governor Hochul announced that over $1 billion in Excluded Workers Program funds have been approved for distribution to date.   More information is available at otda.ny.gov.

A Ribbon Cutting will be held tomorrow morning at the Leilani Way Community Center in Norwich at 105 Leilani Lane, for the Roots & Wings new location.  Robin Cotter of the Roots & Wings Program told WCDO News about the event tomorrow:

(Robin Cotter 9-14-21)

Cotter said that the event is open to the public, more information about their programs can be found at the Facebook page.

Catholic Charities in Sidney is looking for volunteers to assist them in their next community mass food distribution on September 28th, spokesperson Penny McKnight explains:

(Penny McKnight 9-14-21)

McKnight said that they need about 40 to 50 volunteers to help set & then distribute the food to those who show up on the 28th; McKnight said that they have averaged between 9 & 12 tons of food at the previous distributions.

A.M. NEWS Tuesday 9-14-21

Delaware County Public Health reported 101 new cases of COVID 19 in the last week, bringing their total of active cases to 184, with 4 hospitalized & 266 quarantined.  49.6% of the total population is vaccinated, 80% of the positive cases are unvaccinated, and Delaware County residents can find vaccine clinic sites at covid19vaccine.health.ny.gov or vaccines.gov

The State Department of Health today announced that New York State's youth smoking rate has reached an all-time low. As of 2020, less than 3% of high school students smoke cigarettes, down from 27.1% in 2000.  The Youth Tobacco Survey found that youth tobacco use was down across all tobacco product categories, including a drop in e-cigarette use for the first time.  New Yorkers of all ages can contact the New York State Smokers’ Quitline at 1-866-NYQUITS or visit nysmokefree.com.

CDO Workforce is partnering with Otsego County Chamber of Commerce, Commerce Chenango, and Delaware County Chamber of Commerce for the 2nd Virtual Career Fair, today, from 11:00 am to 1:00 pm. The free event will allow local companies and job seekers to connect one-on-one for immediate placement opportunities, especially in industries that are in high demand including Healthcare, Hospitality, Tourism, & Manufacturing, more information is available at 432-4800.

After a year and a half hiatus, due to the Covid-19 Virus, the Mid York Concert Band is looking forward to beginning rehearsals today for the 40 plus piece ensemble made up of professionals, educators, students and dedicated amateurs from Chenango and surrounding counties.   Spokesman Mark Sands told WCDO News about the musicians they are recruiting:

(Mark Sands 9-14-21)

Sands said that the rehearsals are every other Tuesday evening, with the 1st rehearsal tonight from 7:00 to 9:30 in the Norwich Middle School band room. There are 2 scheduled concerts, December 14, 2021 and May 22, 2022.More information is available at 334-4307 or by email: midyorkcb@gmail.com

P.M. NEWS WEDNESDAY 9-1-21

Catholic Charities will hold their 5th mass food distribution at the River Street Fire Station in Sidney Later this month, Spokesperson Penny McKnight explains:

(Penny McKnight 9-1-21)

McKnight said that in the previous 4 mass food distribution, they gave away between 9 & 12 tons of food each time.

Chenango County Sheriff's Office arrested 23 year old Korey Crandall of Sherburne on a Bench Warrant issued out of the City of Norwich Court. Deputies located Crandall in the Town of Sherburne and was in possession of methamphetamines. Crandall was issued an appearance ticket for Possession of a Controlled Substance and was later turned over to the Norwich City Police Department.

Delaware Valley Humane Society will hold its 2nd annual "Heavy Metal Haul-out" fundraiser through the month of September, Shelter Director Erin Insinga explains:

(Erin Insinga 9-1-21)

Items like washer, dryers & other metal items can be dropped off at any time at the Delaware Valley Humane Society on the Back River Road in Sidney, Waste recovery Enterprise will bring the metals to Binghaton for disposal & money raised goes for operating expenses at the Shelter.

The Binghamton Rumble Ponies announced that today's game against Richmond at Mirabito Stadium has been postponed in conjunction with Minor League Baseball due to Covid-19 health and safety protocols as well as inclement weather in the forecast. The Rumble Ponies will continue to practice caution and follow the guidance of medical experts. Fans with tickets to today's game can exchange their tickets for a future Rumble Ponies home game this season.

The New York State Department of Transportation is advising motorists that State Route 28 will be closed from Frank Slawson Road to Coe Hill Road in the Town of Meredith, tomorrow through Wednesday, September 22nd, for a culvert replacement. All work is weather dependent. Northbound through traffic will be diverted onto County Route 10 in Meridale and southbound through traffic will be directed onto State Route 23 in Oneonta. Local traffic will retain access to the closure points. For up-to-date travel information, call 511, visit 511NY.org or download the free 511NY mobile app.

A.M. NEWS WEDNESDAY 9-1-21

Governor Kathy Hochul announced a Special Session of the State Legislature today to address New York's rent and eviction crisis, the Open Meetings Law, and the state's cannabis program. Governor Hochul also announced she is extending New York State's eviction moratorium to January 15, 2022.

Chenango County Public Health announced that a Moderna COVID 19 Vaccine clinic will be held today at the old Label Shopper location for 3rd doses, from 10:00 AM to 12:00 Noon for those that are eligible. Other clinics will be held at the same location in the South Plaza in Norwich on September 7th, 14th & 21st, more information is available at 337-1660.

Helios Care has been notified that they have been selected as a top 25 finalist in the 2nd round of the Tipping Point Challenge, for their Choices Palliative care Program, Helios Care Director of Development & Marketing Alicia Fish explains:

(Alicia Fish 8-31-21)

Fish said that the winners of the Tipping Point Challenge will be announced in October.

The Next Sidney Chamber of Commerce Meeting will be held this morning at 8:00 AM. The meeting will be held at the Sidney Golf & Country Club, members & directors are urged to attend.

Governor Kathy Hochul today announced that $89 million in child care provider stabilization grant funds have been disbursed. More than 10,600 of New York State's 18,000 eligible child care providers have applied for Child Care Stabilization Grant funding. To date, child care providers have requested $585 million of the available $1.1 billion in federal funding. The New York State Office of Children and Family Services is administering the funds.

P.M. NEWS Thursday 8-12-21

New York Attorney General Letitia James and the U.S. Department of Labor announced landmark agreements with United Healthcare to resolve allegations that United unlawfully denied health care coverage for mental health and substance use disorder treatment for thousands of Americans. United will pay approximately $14.3 million in restitution to consumers affected by the policies, including $9 million to more than 20,000 New Yorkers with behavioral health conditions who received denials or reductions in reimbursement.

Catholic Charities Sidney office is taking pre-registration through tomorrow for their School Supplies & Backpack Program for the 2021-2022 school year. Households who have children enrolled in the Sidney Central School district and meet our income requirements may qualify for FREE school supplies and backpack, call 604-4071 for more information.

Downtown Norwich continues with the Thursday evening NBT Bank’s free Summer Concert Series. The weekly musical performances are presented by the Chenango Blues Association, to East Park, tonight, Johnson & Johnson 1-shot COVID vaccines are available from UHS Chenango Memorial Hospital. “We will have several doses of the Johnson & Johnson vaccine on-hand on a first come, first serve basis with no appointment necessary, set up opposite the stage near the gazebo; from 6:30 pm. to 8:30 pm., for those 18 & older.

State Comptroller Tom DiNapoli today announced the audit of the Town of Butternuts. The audit found that the board did not provide adequate oversight of the disbursement process and exceeded its authority under New York State Town Law by authorizing insurance claims and annual contracts to be paid before audit and approval. The board also exceeded its authority by allowing a third-party vendor direct access to the town's bank account that, at times, had more than $500,000 on deposit. In addition, the board allowed debit cards to be used, which resulted in a circumvention of the town's disbursement controls. Auditors found that the142 disbursements totaling $142,200 they reviewed were for proper purposes and adequately supported. However, the board, did not audit and approve 53 of these claims totaling $15,600 before payment as required.

Delaware County Sheriff's Office announced that State Route 206, between the Village of Walton and Lower Third Brook Road, was closed to traffic for several hours Tuesday morning as a result of a tractor trailer accident. At approximately 9:30 am., Tuesday morning, Deputies, members of the Walton Volunteer Fire Department and Emergency Squad and State DOT workers responded, the driver, 59 year-old Rogelio Rodriguez, of Decatur, Indiana, was driving an empty milk tanker when he momentarily took his eyes off the road causing the truck to strike the guide cables and a tree. Rodriquez was not injured in the collision.

Delaware County Sheriff's Office announced that a Downsville man is facing a charge of criminal contempt following a report of a domestic dispute in the Town of Colchester. On Tuesday evening, Deputies responded in the Town of Colchester, 53 year-old Michael Colao, of Downsville violated the terms of an order of protection issued by Delaware County Family Court. Colao was charged with criminal contempt, he was released & will appear in the Colchester Town Court on a later date.

Delaware County Sheriff's Office arrested 21 year-old Shawn Zimmerman, of Gloversville, for endangering the welfare of a child and forcible touching, Zimmerman is accused of inappropriately touching a juvenile female in the Village of Stamford. Zimmerman was arraigned in the Town of Harpersfield Court where he was issued a temporary order of protection prohibiting him from having contact with the victim, he was released in his own recognizance pending a future appearance in that court.

Due to an increased spread of COVID-19, Chenango County is requiring mandatory face masks in all County Buildings and Offices at the start of business on Monday, August 16, 2021. All employees and members of the public (vaccinated and unvaccinated) fall under this requirement. It is also at this time recommended that Chenango County businesses, organizations and schools immediately implement a face mask requirement for their vaccinated and unvaccinated employees, patrons and students.

Otsego County is currently at a SUBSTANTIAL level of community transmission, and is on the verge of becoming HIGH level of community transmission. CDC & Otsego County Department of Health recommends everyone to wear a mask indoors in public if you are in an area of substantial or high transmission, to maximize protection from the Delta variant and prevent possibly spreading it to others. This week there have been several cases of individuals having a repeat COVID-19 infection. This occurs when someone is infected with COVID-19 and 90 or more days later tests positive again for COVID-19. These repeat infections are mostly occurring in unvaccinated individuals. This reinforces that immunity from natural infection diminishes after 90 days. It is important if you have had COVID-19 and are not vaccinated please consider getting vaccinated to prevent a reinfection. In Otsego County. there are 82 active cases, 19 new cases reported today, with 5 hospitalized, there have been 2614 total cases in 2021.

A.M. NEWS Thursday 8-12-21

Broome County Sheriff’s Office responded to a fatal motorcycle crash Tuesday night in West Corners at Glendale Drive & Campville Road at 11:44 pm. 42-year-old Jason Krissel of the Town of Union was ejected off of his motorcycle & was pronounced dead, Krissel applied the brakes aggressively at the intersection, after traveling at a high rate of speed. The investigation is continuing.

The State Education Department today released a health and safety guide to help schools and school districts as they plan for the 2021-22 school year. The guide provides strategies, based on information from the Centers for Disease Control and the American Academy of Pediatrics, to position schools and districts to manage the risks for students and staff from COVID-19. The health and safety guide, as well as other back to school resources, are available on the Department’s Back to School website.

Bassett Healthcare Network’s FoxCare Center in Oneonta remains closed today due to a water outage. Officials say all patients with scheduled appointments will continue to be contacted by their provider’s offices. Pharmacy patients are encouraged to call the Cooperstown clinic at 607-547-5127 for medication assistance.

P.M. NEWS MONDAY 8-9-21

The victim of an August 5th shooting in Delhi has been released from the hospital. State Police said that 28 year old William Effner was shot by Roger Lynch of Franklin, who fled the scene and was killed by a member of the State Police Special Operations Response Team member during a standoff on August 6th. Effner was flown to Albany Medical Center with non-life-threatening injuries.

State Police continue to search for the body of 57 year old James Jones of Louisiana in the Whitney Point Reservoir. Jones was Kayaking with a friend Saturday when his boat overturned & he failed to resurface.

Democrats announced their unanimous endorsement of Molly Fitzgerald of Binghamton for re-election in the race for the Supreme Court 6th Judicial District. In addition to her duties as a trial court Judge from 2008 until 2019, Justice Fitzgerald also served as the Administrative Judge for the Sixth Judicial District from 2016 through 2019.

SUNY Delhi Athletics has achieved full NCAA Division III status, They will be eligible for full status starting Sept. 1st, it will include all 9 women's sports and 8 of the men's sports. SUNY Delhi will become eligible to participate in the NCAA Division III National Championships.

A.M. NEWS Monday 8-9-21

Assemblyman Joe Angelino is urging voters to participate in an upcoming virtual hearing on legislative redistricting for the Southern Tier and Central New York on Today at 2:00 PM. The input from these meetings will help the Independent Redistricting Commission in the redrawing of legislative and congressional district lines for 2022. Those who wish to participate are encouraged to register at: nyirc.gov/meetings.

Catholic Charities in Sidney is once again offering their Free Backpack program with School supplies for children in need in the Sidney School district, Spokesperson Penny McKnight explains:

(Penny McKnight 8-9-21)

McKnight said that the Deadline to apply for the program is this Friday, August 13th.

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

IN NEW YORK STATE COVID NEWS...THERE WERE NEARLY 113 THOUSAND COVID 19 TEST RESULTS REPORTED ON SATURDAY, WITH 3467 POSITIVE RESULTS EQUALING 3% OF THOSE TESTED. THERE ARE ELEVEN HUNDRED AND 62 NEW YORKERS IN THE HOSPITAL AND THERE WERE 11 COVID DEATHS SATURDAY. THERE WERE NEARLY 43 THOUSAND VACCINE DOSES ADMINISTERED SATURDAY.

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

THE NEW YORK STATE SHERIFF'S ASSOCIATION HAS JOINED THE LIST OF THOSE CALLING ON GOVERNOR CUOMO TO STEP DOWN. THE ASSOCIATION'S STATEMENT SAID THAT CUOMO HYPOCRITICALLY CHAMPIONED WOMEN'S RIGHTS TO BE FREE OF SEXUAL HARRASMENT IN THE WORK PLACE. THE STATEMENT ALSO STATED THAT IF THE GOVERNOR DOES NOT RESIGN, THE STATE ASSEMBLY SHOULD PROMPTLY IMPEACH HIM.

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