WCDO Radio News

P.M. NEWS TUESDAY 12-2-25

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

(Tom Armao 12-2-25)

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

The State DEC is now accepting applications for $851,255 in Volunteer Fire Capacity grants to help rural fire departments protect public safety and natural resources. The application deadline is December 22, 2025. Interested fire departments can obtain applications and additional information about the grant program, at (518) 402-8839, or at the DEC website at dec.ny.gov.

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

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

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

P.M. NEWS THURSDAY 1-9-25

Federal funds totaling $15 million will be designated for the installation of 350 electric vehicle charging stations at SUNY campuses, This initiative is part of the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Charging and Fueling Infrastructure Grant Program, which is a component of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Investment & Jobs Act that was passed by Congress and signed into law by President Joe Biden in 2021.

The Chenango County Historical Society is currently accepting submissions for the 2025 issue of their annual Journal, Society Executive Director Jessica Moquin told WCDO News about The journal:

(Jessica Moquin 1-9-25)

Moquin said that complete submission guidelines or more information regarding the Journal, is available by calling (607) 334-9227 extension 2 or by email at info@chenangohistorical.org.

Chenango Arts Council announced today a grant totaling $40,000 has be awarded from the State Council on the Arts to support the nonprofit arts and culture sector, the state council has awarded $82 million this year to 509 artists and 1,497 organizations across the state.

A.M. NEWS Thursday 1-9-25

A Delaware County Grand Jury returned a 12 count indictment against 47 year old Nicholas Cartelli of Otego and 38 year old Taylor Church of Bainbridge on a variety of drug & weapons charges on Tuesday. The pair are accused of possessing Heroin, Methamphetamines, cocaine, packaging materials, a loaded handgun & rifles in the Town of Sidney, where they are accused of possessing the drugs with intent to sell.

State Police are asking for the public’s assistance in locating 68 year old Edward Crampton, who was reported missing on January 3rd. Crampton has not been seen by his family since around Thanksgiving, he was known to stay in his vehicle on Old Route 17 near ARS Auto in Windsor and known to walk to Mirabito or the Big M but has not been seen at any of those locations in several weeks. Crampton does not drive the vehicle and it is still parked on Old Route 17. It's believed that Crampton does not currently have a working cellphone. Troopers have checked the area, with local shelters and local hospitals but have not been able to locate Crampton. Crampton is about 5’7” with green eyes and gray hair, anyone with information is asked to contact State Police at (607)561-7400.

Broome County Sheriff’s Office Strategic Response Group public safety and crime response initiative was activated in June, The Full results included 16 Narcotics Arrests, 23 Warrant Arrests, 27 Vehicle and Traffic Arrests & 227 Traffic Violations Issued in areas of higher criminal activity by Utilizing statistical and crime-mapping data from the Southern Tier Crime Analysis Center in Binghamton.

The Susquehanna Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals invites the public to a Community Forum TODAY at 5:30PM at Foothills Performing Arts Center. Community members are invited to discuss all animal related issue in local communities, last year's forum led to the formation of a group dealing with feral cat issues, for more information or to donate, visit www.sqspca.org.

The Annual Chenango Blues Festival begins tonight with some free music, followed by free music Friday night & the headliners on Saturday, at the Chenango County Fairgrounds in Norwich, according to organizer Eric Larsen:

(Eric Larsen 8-15-24)

More information is available at chenangobluesfest.org.

P.M. NEWS WEDNESDAY 8-7-24

The Daughter of Country Music Legend Garth Brooks; Allie Colleen, has stepped out on her own & will be the headliner Saturday night at the Chenango County Fair in Norwich, Terry Potter of Millennia Entertainment stopped in to talk about that and another act that he has brought in to the Chenango County Fair this year:

(Terry Potter 8-7-24)

More information about those shows & other activities can be found at chenangofair.org, or the Fair's Facebook page.

Delaware County District Attorney Shawn Smith announced that 22 year old Nalya Jimenez of Sidney appeared in Delaware County Court Monday for arraignment on a 4 count indictment for Welfare Fraud, Offering a False Instrument. Jimenez was indicted after evidence was presented to the Delaware County Grand Jury, she is accused of providing false information while applying for the SNAP benefits & concealing recurring income from several sources, she is accused of receiving about $5,600 in public benefits that she was not entitled to, she faces court action at a later date.

The 30th Colorscape Chenango Arts Festival will return to downtown Norwich in September, with many new participants and previous favorites returning, according to organizer Michele Erickson:

(Michelle Erickson 8-7-24)

The Colorscape Chenango Arts Festival will be held on September 7th & 8th in downtown Norwich with the artists, numerous musical acts and numerous food vendors

Governor Kathy Hochul announced that $200 million in funding is now available through the State’s Downtown Revitalization Initiative and New York Forward programs. Together, the programs have awarded $1 billion in funding to 124 communities across the State since 2016. Applications are now available, the deadline to apply is October 18th, Municipalities can get more information at ny.gov/programs.

The Annual Chenango County Fair will run today through Sunday at the Chenango County Fairgrounds in Norwich, according to spokesperson Mary Weidman:

(Mary Weidman 8-7-24)

More information can be found at chenangofair.com or at their Facebook page.

A different kind of Comedy Show will be at the Foothills Performing Arts Center in Oneonta this weekend, spokesman Geoff Doyle visited WCDO this morning & described the next show:

(Geoff Doyle 7-9-24)

Tickets & more information about future shows can be found at foothillspac.org or by calling (607) 431-2080.

Otsego County Public Health will hold a free rabies vaccination clinic for dogs, cats & ferrets this evening, at Clifton Park in Unadilla, the clinic will run from 6:00 to 8:00 PM.

A.M. NEWS Tuesday 7-9-24

On July 3, State Police conducted an Underage Drinking Initiative in Chenango and Otsego Counties. During the initiative, 10 businesses were checked for compliance. All ten were found in compliance and did not sell any alcohol to the underage operative, in Norwich, Oxford, Greene, Smithville Flats & Morris. During these investigations, businesses are checked utilizing a Trooper in plain clothes and one or several underage operatives who cannot lie about their age or provide a false date of birth. State police also announced that 22 people were arrested for DWI, from June 28th to July 5th in Troop c.

State Comptroller Tom DiNapoli announced that the percentage of New Yorkers without health insurance declined every year since 2010 from 12% to 5.2% in 2021, well below the national average of 8.6%. Rates of uninsured New Yorkers are lower than the national average due to the state's higher enrollment in public health insurance programs, which provided coverage to 4 in 10 New Yorkers in 2021. The full report can be found at osc.state.ny.us.

Colorscape Chenango Arts Festival has announced the 2023 Francis K. Wilcox Emerging Young Artist Scholarship winner, Tiannah Dean-Anderson of Oxford High School. Tiannah will be awarded $350 at the Festival’s Award’s Breakfast on the Sunday morning of Colorscape, where she will receive a gift certificate for Golden Artist Colors products and the opportunity to display and sell her work in a booth provided by Colorscape. The 2023 Colorscape will be held rain or shine on September 9-10 in East and West Parks in Norwich.

4 arrests were made during an Underage Drinking Initiative in Troop “C” in Delaware County Tuesday. During the initiative, 26 businesses were checked, the 4 who were not in compliance were Carroll and Carver Wine & Spirits, Sidney, Breakey’s Liquor Store in Walton, Mirabito Quickway in Franklin & The Country Store in Roxbury. The clerk at each of the business that sold alcohol was issued an appearance ticket for the Alcohol Beverage Control Law violation of Unlawful Sale of Alcohol to a Minor.

The Delaware County Chamber of Commerce is seeking public comments regarding their study with various entities, into a public transportation system to accommodate the rural nature of the county, & the difficulty of many to get to & from County employers, Chamber President Ray Pucci explains:

(Ray Pucci 8-16-23)

The study is available for public review and comment under the “Resources” tab at the Chamber’s website at DelawareCounty.org.

A.M. NEWS WEDNESDAY 8-16-23

Norwich Police arrested Kevin Dunmire & Ashley Bradley of Norwich on a number of drug charges, the 2 are accused of possessing & selling methamphetamines & Fentanyl in the city of Norwich & face court action shortly

P.M. NEWS FRIDAY 8-19-22

New York State has been awarded $501.5 million in federal funds through the State Small Business Credit Initiative, which was reauthorized and expanded as part of the American Rescue Plan Act. The Initiative provides funds to support programs for small businesses, with an emphasis on those still struggling from the economic impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, for more information, please visit esd.ny.gov/ssbci.

Delaware County Public Health’s Children & Youth with Special Health Care Needs program Is sponsoring Art in the Park, hosted by The Oneonta World of Learning. Activities will be held Saturday August 20 & 27th from 1:00 pm to 4:00 PM, at 167 Youngs Road in Oneonta. More information is available by calling Oneonta World of Learning at 607-353-9503.

The Boards of Directors for the Chenango United Way and the United Way of Madison County have approved the formal affiliation of their 2 agencies, with the intent to complete an application for merger in the first quarter of 2023. Elizabeth Monaco will be the Executive Director of the new affiliated United Way, she told WCDO News how this will benefit the affected communities:

(Elizabeth Monaco 8-19-22)

The Chenango United Way also affiliated with the United Way of Delaware & Otsego Counties, so the 3 United Ways will now serve more than 224,000 people in the 4 county region, a new name for the 4-county organization will be announced next year.

A.M. NEWS FRIDAY8-19-22

State Police arrested 39 year old Adam Bright of East Meredith for Aggravated Vehicular Homicide, Aggravated Vehicular Assault, Aggravated Unlicensed Operation, Driving While Impaired by Drugs & Reckless Driving, after an investigation into a head-on crash on May 26th, on State Highway 23 in Davenport. Bright's minivan collided with a tractor trailer driven by 53 year old Michael Lutz of Oneonta. Bright was airlifted to a hospital for non-life-threatening injuries, his passenger, 43 year old Stacey Stachow of Meredith died at the scene, Lutz suffered minor injuries and was treated and released at a local hospital. Bright was located by Troopers Wednesday, he was arraigned at the Hamden Town Court and remanded to the Delaware County Jail.

Delaware County Public Health Services has confirmed its first monkeypox case in Delaware County. The person had traveled outside of Delaware County and contact tracing efforts are underway. Monkeypox spreads through close, physical contact between people. The Delaware County Public Health Services advises those who experience symptoms, such as rashes or lesions, to contact their healthcare provider, this includes anyone who has traveled to countries and areas where monkeypox cases have been reported, for more information, go to health.ny.gov/diseases.

The Chenango Blues Festival returns to Norwich tonight with a free show, and the main concerts to be held at the Chenango County Fairgrounds Saturday, Spokesman Eric Larsen said that tickets are still available:

(Eric Larsen 8-15-22)

More information, updates and tickets are available at chenangobluesfest.org

The Afton Arts & Crafts Festival will be held this Saturday & Sunday along Main Street & in the Afton Fairgrounds, Greater Afton Chamber of Commerce President John Hinman explains:

(John Hinman 8-15-22)

More information is available at the Greater Afton Chamber of Commerce Facebook Page or at aftonartsandcraftsfestival.com.

Chenango County Public Health reported another 11 Positive COVID 19 cases Friday. They have 126 active cases, 498 quarantined & 8 hospitalized.  Chenango County has had 928 cases of the virus, with 770 recoveries & 16 deaths.

Governor Cuomo today announced that state and local law enforcement agencies throughout New York will be stepping up patrols to crack down on impaired driving during the holiday travel season. The enforcement campaign will run through Friday, January 1. This crackdown is part of the national "Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over" initiative designed to reduce alcohol and drug-related traffic crashes. It is sponsored by STOP-DWI with funding from the Governor's Traffic Safety Committee.

Chenango Arts Council will have Santa Claus in Norwich Saturday from 1:00 to 3:00 PM on the Martin W. Kappel stage at the Arts Council, at 27 West Main Street, Chenango Arts Council Executive Director Alecia O'Neill explains:

(Alecia O'Neill 12-18-20)

More information can be found at ChenangoArts.org, or the Council's Facebook, Twitter and Instagram pages, or at 336-2787.

The Sidney Chamber of Commerce announced that Santa Claus will appear in Downtown Sidney again this Saturday& the Sidney Chamber also will have their annual house decorating contest conclude this weekend, Chamber President Teri Schunk explains:

(Teri Schunk 12-18-20)

Schunk said that Santa Claus's appearance will include masks & social distancing due to the ongoing pandemic.

A.M. NEWS Friday 12-18-20

Following the Winter Storm, Governor Cuomo Declared a STATE OF EMERGENCY in 18 Counties.  The Disaster Emergency was declared in Broome, Chenango, Delaware, & Otsego Counties locally, there were over 600 accidents on the roads statewide Thursday, with 2 fatalities.

Delaware County Public Health had 13 more COVID 19 positive cases Thursday, 79 cases are active & there are 3 people hospitalized & 318 in quarantine.  Delaware County has had 553 total cases with 464 recoveries & 10 deaths.

Commerce Chenango, NBT Bank, The Bainbridge Chamber of Commerce, SUNY Morrisville & others have teamed up to distribute complete holiday meals in 2 Chenango County locations today, Commerce Chenango President & CEO Kerri Green comments;

(Kerri Green 12-18-20)

Site #1 will be at SUNY Morrisville, Conkey Avenue in Norwich and pick-up time is 1:00 PM to 3:30 PM, and Site #2 will be manned by the Bainbridge Chamber of Commerce at General Clinton Park with a pick-up time of 2:00 to 3:00 PM, for those who pre-registered.

The Sidney Central School District has been notified by the Delaware County Public Health of 4 positive COVID-19 cases in the elementary school in grades K, 2, 3 and 5, Contact tracing has begun and the health department or school district officials will be in contact with any student and staff member impacted by the exposure.  The Sidney elementary school grades K-6 will transition to full remote learning for next Monday & Tuesday due to continued contact tracing efforts. Teachers will be in contact to communicate instructional schedules, there will be no change to the 7-12 instructional schedules.

Chenango County Public Health announced that they are up to 157 cases of the Coronavirus with 66 active quarantines, no one is hospitalized, 140 have recovered, there have been 6 deaths, and 12,375 tests have been performed.

The New York State Council on the Arts announced that $490,000 in Cares Act Funding will go to 49 arts organizations around the state.  Locally, the West Kortright Centre in Delaware County will receive $10,000 in funding.

Delaware County Sheriff Deputies arrested 23 year old Travis Jennings of Hancock with 3rd degree rape and endangering a child.   Jennings is accused of engaging in sexual intercourse with a female child under the age of 17-years-of-age in the Town of Hancock in August of 2019, he was arraigned & was released on his own recognizance pending his appearance in the Town of Hancock Court on a later date.

Due to the number of complaints from the public over the July 4th holiday weekend, State Police targeted people bringing illegal fireworks purchased in Pennsylvania into New York State.  State Police arrested 21 individuals and charged them with unlawfully dealing with fireworks; more than $27,000 in illegal fireworks were seized.

Oneonta's Survive, then Thrive initiative is providing 2 gallons of hand sanitizer, disinfecting wipes, touch-free thermometers and surgical masks to city small businesses free of charge.  Distribution will take place on Thursday and Friday from 10:00 a.m.-1:00p.m. in front of the Clubhouse at Damaschke Field. Eligible businesses should reserve these supplies in advance by calling 434-3130 or 376-7599.

Delaware County Public Health received no positive lab reports for COVID-19 for the 14th straight day Tuesday, they are still at 82 positive tests since March, and they report 76 recoveries. No patients are isolated at home or in a hospital, 6 have died, 18 are in quarantine.

A Flash Flood Watch is in effect through tomorrow morning, due
to expected heavy rain at times, local Meteorologist Rich Townsend comments:

(Rich Townsend
4-18-19)

River Gauges can
be accessed at wcdoonline.com/river.

Governor Cuomo announced the
State Budget includes $100 million for the 4th round of the Downtown
Revitalization Initiative, to support 10 additional downtown neighborhoods, 1
in each region of the state.  The City of
Oneonta was one of the 30 municipalities that received the $10 million dollar
award.

State Police arrested 35 year
old Benjamin Bishop of Otselic for Criminal Contempt, 2nd degree Burglary,
& 2 counts of Criminal Mischief, after Troopers were dispatched to a
domestic dispute on April 12th in the town of Pitcher.  Bishop is accused of damaging several
vehicles, and trying to break into a residence, the victim left through a fire
escape.  Troopers discovered there was an
active Order of Protection against Bishop on behalf of the victim.  Bishop fled before troopers arrived but he
was located on April 15th and arrested, arraigned & was remanded to the
Chenango County jail on $15,000 cash bail or $30,000 bond.

A Fundraiser for the "Help
Restore Hope Center" of Chenango County will be held tomorrow in
Afton.  The "Full Moon
Fundraiser" will be held from 12:00 Noon until 5:00 PM at the Baristacrats
Coffer Bar at 190 Main Street.

The Grand Oneonta Opry Show will be held this Saturday night
at the Foothills Performing Arts Center in Oneonta, to raise money for Catskill
Area Hospice & Palliative Care.
Alicia Fish of Catskill Area Hospice & Palliative care comments:

(Alicia Fish 4-19-19)

John Thompson of the Driftwoods told WCDO News that his band
will back up several area musical acts at Saturday's show, and he encourages
the local public to come out & support this fundraising effort:

(John Thompson 4-19-19)

More information about the show is available by calling
431-2080; tickets can be purchased at the Foothills Box Office or online at
eventbrite.com.

The annual springtime turkey hunting weekend for young
hunters is this weekend in New York State.
Licensed hunters 12 to 15 years old are eligible for the special 2-day
hunt this weekend; they must have a turkey permit and must be accompanied by a
parent or other adult with written permission from a parent or guardian.  Shooting hours are from a half hour before
sunrise until noon.  The regular spring
turkey season starts on May 1 in upstate New York.

State Police issued 7,891 tickets and arrested 139 people
for impaired driving during the Super Bowl weekend impaired driving crackdown.
The STOP-DWI initiative started on Saturday, February 2, and continued through
4 a.m. on Monday, February 4, 2019. During the special enforcement period State
Police increased patrols and conducted sobriety checkpoints to deter, identify
and arrest impaired drivers.

Governor Cuomo announced that New York is making up to $31.6
million available to ramp-up the expansion of electric vehicle fast charging
stations to serve the future electric vehicle market.  The plan approved by the Public Service
Commission will leverage existing State Energy Research and Development
Authority and New York Power Authority funds to spur the private-sector
development of the charging infrastructure to support the goal of 800,000
zero-emission vehicles in New York by 2025.

The Chenango Arts Council will feature the Popovich Comedy
Pet Theater will be at the Martin Kappel Theater Saturday at 7:00 pm.  Council Executive Director Alecia O’Neill
comments:

(Alecia O'Neill 2-8-19)

Tickets can be purchased online at ChenangoArts.org or by
calling the box office at 336-ARTS.

The Jericho Arts Council will bring the "Elvis and
Orbison Show" to the Bainbridge Town Hall Theater this evening at 7:00
PM.  Tickets can be reserved at 288-3882

Governor Cuomo today requested that the federal government grant a Major Disaster Declaration for 8 counties devastated by flash flooding during severe storms in August. A Declaration would result in financial assistance from the federal government for emergency protective measures, debris removal, and repairs to public buildings and infrastructure. The 8 county request includes Broome, Chenango, & Delaware Counties locallly, after damage estimates exceeded $36 million in infrastructure repair, debris removal and structural damage as a result of these storms. Widespread power outages impacted more than 1,500 homes and businesses in the area, responders rescued and evacuated more than 200 people from campgrounds.

The Jericho Arts Council will open their fall season with a variety of shows at the Bainbridge Town Hall Theater. Council Treasurer Phillip Wade said that the season starts Saturday with the award winning Beatles tribute band "Beatles For Sale" at 7:00 PM:

(Phillip Wade 9-13-18)

Tickets can be reserved by calling 288-3882, more information is available at JerichArts.com or at the council's Facebook page.

Governor Cuomo announced more than 200 communities across the state have earned the Clean Energy Community designation, completing more than 1,250 total high-impact clean energy actions. The designation recognizes community leadership in reducing energy use, cutting costs and driving clean energy, all supporting the state's clean energy goals. More than 450 communities are participating in the Clean Energy Communities initiative and have completed at least one high-impact action

Governor Cuomo today issued a cease and desist letter to ICE to demand the immediate stop of their unconstitutional enforcement actions. Cuomo condemns the agency's patterns of targeting immigrants and jeopardize public safety in places of businesses, and public places such as schools. Also the Governor signed an executive order to modify executive order #170 to prohibit ICE arrests in state facilities without a warrant, and it also prohibits law enforcement officers from inquiring about immigration status unless they are investigating illegal criminal activity.

The Chenango Arts Council received a grant to spruce up their facility in Downtown Norwich, Council Executive Director Alecia O'Neill explains:

(Alecia O'Neill 4-25-18)

O'Neill said that they are also getting ready for the Annual Allego 5K run and walk in May, details about their events are available at Chenango Arts.org.

The State Board of Elections announced that all precincts have reported in the 102nd State Assembly race, they have declared Republican Christopher Tague as the winner, with 45.8% of the vote, over Democrat Aidan O'Connor with 44.3%, and Independent candidate Wesley Laraway with 9.7%. Tague replaces Pete Lopez, who left the seat last year following an appointment to the EPA.

Governor Cuomo launched the 3rd round of the Downtown Revitalization Initiative, investing $100 million into 10 additional downtown neighborhoods across the state. In its third year, the proven-successful investment will boost local economies; locally the City of Oneonta won the 10 million dollar award & is in the process of improving several areas for future developments.

Oxford Central School will be hosting a Robotics Competition called "Robo-Rave" in the High School Gymnasium Saturday from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Over 20 teams will be competing. Robo-Rave is a program designed to teach students how to design, build, code & program Robots to perform a variety of tasks, Oxford High School Science Teach Mark Muller explains why he wanted to bring Robo Rave to Oxford:

(Mark Muller 4-6-18)

Muller said that Saturday's event is the first Robo Rave event in New York State, Robo rave is associated with NASA, who brought a team of engineers to Oxford to speak & teach at the event, which is free & open to the public. More information is available at oxac.org.

State Police arrested 38 year old Michael Sullivan of Agawam, Massachusetts & 30 year old Gabrielle Graham of Pittsfield, Massachusetts for criminal possession of a controlled substance, Sullivan was additionally charged with Unlawful Possession of Marihuana. Troopers received a complaint of a disabled vehicle on I-88 in the town of Afton; they located marijuana and a smoking pipe with residue. Sullivan and Graham were arraigned in the town of Afton Court and remanded to the Chenango County Jail on $1,000 cash bail or $2,000 bond. Their next court date is scheduled for April 23, 2018 in the town of Afton Court.

Governor Cuomo today announced a new initiative to provide teachers and coaches with resources they can use to help prevent and address substance use disorder among young people. Starting next week, the New York State Department of Health, the New York State Education Department, and the New York State Office of Alcoholism and Substance Abuse Services will notify schools statewide of the availability of flash drives loaded with materials in English and Spanish for coaches, teachers, school nurses, and other educators to use in personal conversations with students and in community forums.

The Otsego County Department of Health is hosting the 2018 Living Healthier Expo at the Foothills Performing Arts center on market Street in Oneonta today & tomorrow. The American Red Cross will be holding blood drives over both days, topics will include Lyme disease, rabies Awareness, Chronic Disease management; more information is available at 547-4230 or LHEOtsego.com.

Democratic Congressional candidate Gareth Rhodes will appear in Sidney today. Rhodes will appear at the Sidney Golf & Country Club this morning at 9:00 AM, he is one of 7 announced candidates running for the Democratic Party Nomination for the right to face incumbent Republican Congressman John Faso for the 19th District.

The Flood warning is continuing to be issued by the National Weather service for the WCDO listening area through Saturday afternoon. In Sidney, Mayor Andy Matviak told WCDO what is expected after consulting with Sidney High School Science Teacher & Meteorologist Rich Townsend this morning:

(Andy Matviak 4-7-17)

Minor flooding has been reported along the Susquehanna River in Unadilla & Bainbridge locally, as well as in Walton on the Delaware River, and in Sherburne & Greene along the Chenango River. River Gauges can be accessed at WCDORadio.com & click on the River Levels Icon.

The Sidney Chamber of Commerce will hold the Annual Arts & Music Festival on July 15th in Keith Clark Park, as Main Street will be undergoing renovations during the summer months. The chamber is looking for vendors who want to participate to contact the Chamber soon, according to Stephanie Taylor & Teri Schunk:

(Steph Taylor-Teri Schunk 4-7-16)

This, the Headliners will be Woodshed Prophets, The Art portion of the event is being coordinated by Dan Harrington of the Harrington Gallery. Other scheduled activities will include the Classic Car Cruise in, Cullman Days and the event will also fall on the Sidney Alumni weekend.

Chenango Arts Council will have the "Open Hand Theater" presenting "The Chocolate War". Council Interim Executive Director Alecia O'Neill explains:

(Alecia O’Neill 4-7-17)

The show will be held at the Martin W. Kappel Theater in Norwich at 2:00 PM Sunday, more information about this & other events can be accessed at Chenango Arts.org or at 336-2787.

More than 300 fire departments across New York State have already signed up for the seventh annual RecruitNY weekend, a major initiative of the Firemen’s Association of the State of New York (FASNY). On April 29-30, firehouses across the State will open their doors to the public in an effort to increase membership in the volunteer fire service. Members of the public are invited to visit their local firehouses, where volunteer firefighters will be conducting tours of their facilities, demonstrating firefighting techniques, and allowing visitors to try on turnout gear. more information, is available at recruitny.org.

The Delaware County Tourism Advisory Board will meet this morning at 10am at the County Office Building, 111 Main Street, Delhi. The meeting is open to the public.

The Oneonta downtown Revitalization Initiative committee will hold another meeting tonight, at the Foothills Performing Arts Center on Market Street. The meeting is open to the public & begins at 7:00 PM.

The Commerce Chenango 2017 Economic Forecast Breakfast will be held from 7:30 AM to 9:15 AM at the Canasawacta Country Club in Norwich this morning. The Keynote Speaker will be Kenneth Entenmann of NBT Wealth Management.

23-year-old Caden Cruz of Oxford pleaded guilty to a number of charges in Chenango County Court Thursday. Cruz was originally charged last March with 2nd degree Assault, resisting arrest, & criminal possession of a hypodermic instrument. Cruz was arrested by Norwich Police following a foot pursuit on March 1st; he was also accused of striking the first responding Police officer. He faces sentencing shortly.

Governor Cuomo announced $3 million in new funding to help eligible municipalities and rural electricity cooperatives purchase electric vehicles for use in their municipal use fleets. The initiative is part of the New York Power Authority’s Municipal Electric-Drive Vehicle Program, which provides financial assistance to facilitate the replacement of less fuel-efficient vehicles. This announcement supports Governor Cuomo's energy goal to reduce greenhouse gas emissions in New York 40 percent by 2030.

New York State of Health is holding information sessions at libraries throughout the state to reach uninsured New Yorkers. Certified in-person assistors will be available to answer questions and provide enrollment assistance during more than 200 information sessions at 77 libraries in February. a local session will be held in Walton at the Ogden Public Library on February 17th from 10:00 am to 3:00 PM.

The Foothills Performing Arts Center will once again feature the "Not Too Far From Home" Comedy tour, coming tonight at 8:00 PM in Oneonta. Aaron David Ward & 2 other comedians will perform, tickets are available by calling Foothills at 431-2080, or at FoothillsPAC.org.

A free business partnership workshop open to the public will be held tonight at the Oxford Academy primary school multi purpose room. Representatives from the Voss Group & Southern Tier Startup Alliance will speak to those who are thinking about becoming entrepreneurs in the Greater Chenango Area, the workshop runs form 6:30to 8:00 PM tonight & is one of a series of workshops as part of the 2 year "Innovation Series" of monthly forums. More information is available at 843-2025 extension 3301.

State Assembly Speaker Carl Heastie announced that the Assembly Majority plans on implementing legislation to protect & enhance the lives of New York's Immigrant population:

(Carl Heastie 2-7-17)

Heastie also said that they would once again act on the "Dream Act" to allow illegal immigrants to pursue higher education that legislation has failed to pass in the Republican led State Senate in the past.

The next meeting of the Oneonta Downtown revitalization Initiative Planning Committee will be held today, at the Foothills Performing Arts center on the 2nd floor. The meeting will run from 1:00 to 3:00 PM & is open to the public and there will be a period for public comments. Also, the Oneonta Common Council will hold their next meeting tonight, at 7:00 PM at City Hall.

The National Women's Hall of Fame will announce their 2017 inductees today in Seneca Falls, the site of the first women's rights convention. 10 women who will be inducted to the hall during a ceremony in September, so far 266 women who have influenced arts, athletics, business, education, government, and the sciences, have been inducted.

Firefighters from Norwich, North Norwich & Sherburne responded to a vehicle fire on State route 12 between North Norwich & Sherburne, yesterday afternoon. A Pepperidge farms delivery truck was in flames when fire fighters arrived shortly after 12:00 Noon Wednesday, Chenango county fire investigators reported that the vehicle had broken down, was towed to a rest area, when a mechanic ruptured a gas line. The vehicle was totally destroyed, no injuries were report, and no tickets were issued.

The next meeting of the Oneonta Downtown revitalization Initiative Planning Committee will be held next Tuesday, at the Foothills Performing Arts center on the 2nd floor. The meeting will run from 1:00 to 3:00 PM & is open to the public and there will be a period for public comments.

Chenango County Sheriff Ernest Cutting was Elected 2nd Vice Chair of the Executive Committee of the New York State Sheriffs' Association, at the 83rd Annual Winter Training Conference last week in Albany. Sheriff Cutting will work with Sheriffs around the state, to further the efforts of the Sheriffs' Association to enhance public safety in New York State through professional training and accreditation programs, public safety programs, and advocacy. The New York State Sheriffs' Association, Inc. is a not-for-profit corporation, formed in 1934, for the purpose of assisting sheriffs in the efficient and effective delivery of services to the public.

The State Department of Labor released local unemployment rates for December today. Locally Chenango County had 5.2% unemployment, Delaware county 5.3% and Otsego County at 4.8%, the State’s unemployment rate decreased 2/10 to 4.9% in December.

Another public meeting of the Oneonta Downtown Revitalization initiative will be held on Tonight at the Foothills Performing Arts Center Atrium. Updated information will be provided by Stantec Urban Planners, Otsego Now & the local planning committee, regarding plans to transform the downtown business district. Oneonta received 10 million dollars from the state last year for the projects. The public is encouraged to attend & participate in the meeting at 7:00 PM.

Breastfeeding support is currently available every Tuesday at UHS Pediatrics in Sidney. Rene Stratton of Delaware County Public Health explains:

(Rene Stratton 1-24-17)

More information about the program is available at 561-2200.

State Police responded to a report of a 1-vehicle crash on County Road 2 near Echo Lake Road in the Town of Greene, where the driver had fled the scene on foot into the woods. The driver was identified as 23-year-old Alexander Drost of Greene. A man had knocked on the door to a home nearby asking for help, Drost was found hiding in a large backhoe. He was arrested for DWI, Aggravated Unlicensed Operation and several traffic violations & was arraigned and remanded to the Chenango county Jail on $10,000 cash bail or $20,000 property bond.

Delaware County Sheriff’s Office executed a search warrant and arrested two residents in the Town of Colchester. Investigators charged 57-year-old Douglas James & 57 year old Karen James of Downsville, for Criminal Possession of Cocaine with the intent to sell, plus Criminal Possession of Marijuana. Investigators seized 1-½ pounds of Marijuana, plus Cocaine, $6,026 in cash, a digital scale, several rifles and Public Assistance Benefit cards. Both were arraigned & were remanded to the Delaware County Jail on $100,000 cash bail or $500,000 property bond.

The State Labor department released the unemployment rate numbers by county, for the month of November today. Locally, Chenango County had 4.8%, Delaware County had 4.9% & Otsego County had 4.3% unemployment, the statewide rate dropped 1 tenth to 5.1% in November.

The Oneonta Downtown Revitalization Initiative will hold their 4th meeting of the Local Planning Committee. Oneonta Mayor Gary Herzig said that they must work quickly:

(Mayor Gary Herzig 12-20-16)

Today's meeting is open to the public & will run from 1:00 to 3:00 PM at the Foothills Performing Arts Center.

The next Bainbridge Chamber of Commerce General meeting is this morning at 7:30am at Bob's Diner. During this meeting, leaders of local organizations will present their plans for 2017. The meeting is open to the public.

State Police arrested 25 year old Andrew Carnrike of Smyrna for the felony Assault, plus Criminal Obstruction of Breathing and 2nd degree Harassment, after troopers responded to a dispute on East Main Street in Smyrna. Carnrike allegedly pushed & grabbed the vicitm by the throat and followed the vicitm to a neighbor’s home, Carrike is also accused of assaulting the neighbor, causing injuries. Carnrike was located, arrested & was arraigned in the Town of Smyrna Court and was remanded to the Chenango County Jail on $10,000 cash bail, he faces court action on Thursday.

State Comptroller Tom DiNapoli proposed changes to the state’s procurement practices in the wake of criminal charges and allegations of corruption in the awarding of state economic development project contracts. By state law, the Comptroller’s office is responsible for reviewing and approving state agency contracts above $50,000 and certain contracts over $1 million for state public authorities, In recent years, executive and legislative actions have eroded the Comptroller’s contract oversight. In 2015, state agencies issued over $6.8 billion in contracts without Comptroller review. DiNapoli suggested restoring previous powers to his office that have been steadily removed in the last 5 years, Create tougher ethics requirements and penalties for those who abuse the procurement process, & Increase transpoarency over the entire process.

The next meeting of the Oneonta Downtown Revitalization Initiative local planning committee is tonight at 7:00 PM at the Foothills Performing Arts Center. 2 more committee meeting are scheduled for December 20th & January 3rd, both at the Foothills Performing Arts center.

Former top aide to Governor Cuomo; Joseph Percoco & 7 others were indicted Tuesday on federal public-corruption charges, some of which are connected to the Governor’s "Buffalo Billion" economic development plan. the indictments included charges of bribery, extortion, conspiracy & wire fraud.

The next meeting of the Oneonta Downtown Revitalization Initiative will be held next Tuesday November 29th from 1:00 to 3:30 PM at the Foothills Performing Arts Center. All meetings are open to the public and there is a period for public comment on the agenda near the end of each meeting.

The State Department of Health today announced that it has officially filed amendments to the Medical Use of Marijuana regulations that will authorize nurse practitioners to register with the Department to certify patients for medical marijuana. The amendments will take effect on November 30th, when the notice of adoption will be published in the New York State Register. Nurse practitioners will need to take the Department-approved Medical Use of Marijuana course online. The proposed rulemaking will be published on November 30th and will be subject to a 45-day public comment period. So far, over 10,500 patients have been certified by more than 740 registered physicians to participate.

The Chenango SPCA is raising funds by collecting old inkjet or printer cartridges from area businesses, and sending them out in exchange for a donation. Danielle Nolan of the Chenango SPCA explains:

(Danielle Nolan 11-22-16)

More information about the program is available at 334-9724 during normal business hours.

The Chenango County IDA announced significant progress in its Rail Revitalization project, which aims to restore service to the 45 ½ miles of the Utica Mainline track between the Madison and Broome County lines. Frontier Railroad Services of New Stanton, PA is nearing completion of the construction phase of the project, which repaired numerous washouts caused by floods in 2006 and 2011. Chenango County IDA Spokesman Steve Craig comments:

(Steve Craig 10-21-16)

Frontier is working with IDA's engineers at Stone Consulting on the final "punch list" of remaining tasks.

Sportsfield Specialties has completed a recent expansion to their manufacturing facility in Delhi. The company is inviting the public to their Open House Saturday, from 11:00 AM to 2:00 PM it will include tours, demonstrations, family activities, and complimentary refreshments.

The Jericho Arts Council will feature the bluegrass music of "Zink & Company Saturday night. Spokesman Phillip Wade comments:

(Phillip Wade 10-21-16)

ZINK & COMPANY will perform at the Town Hall Theatre on Main Street in Bainbridge beginning at 7:00 PM

Republican Congressional Candidate Claudia Tenney will be speaking at the Bainbridge Town Hall tonight at 6:30 PM. Tenney is the Republican candidate for the Congressional District 22 seat being vacated by Richard Hanna, she is facing Democrat Kim Myers & Independent candidate Martin Babinec. The public is invited to attend.

Governor Cuomo announced the winners of the Regional Economic Development awards and the Upstate Revitalization Initiative Award winners this morning, at an Albany Ceremony:

(Cuomo 12-10-15)

State Senator John Bonacic was pleased that Delaware county, which is part of the Southern Tier Regional Council, came up big today:

(Bonacic 12-10-15)

Locally, the Southern Tier & Central New York Regional Councils won the 500 Million Dollar Upstate Revitalization Initiative Awards, & the Mohawk Valley won the largest Regional Economic Development Award at 100.3 million dollars.

Convicted murderer, Ganesh Ramsaran appeared in Chenango County Court Wednesday, where he pleaded guilty to a bribery charge, for offering $100,000 to a corrections officer to assist in a scheme to break out of jail. Ramsaran was returned to the Chenango County Jail where he was being held for the murder of his wife Jennifer 3 years ago, he faces sentencing on the new bribery charge on February 3rd.

A Broome County Sheriff’s Deputy pulled over a vehicle for a loud exhaust early Thursday morning; the Deputy noticed a hypodermic needle in plain sight in the passenger’s purse. The passenger also provided the deputy with her sister’s name to hide that she was wanted on a warrant elsewhere in New York State. Melinda Sutton was charged with Criminal Possession of a Hallucinogen, 3 Counts of Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance, Criminal Impersonation, she is accused of possessing mushrooms, cocaine, methamphetamines, & controlled substances. She was arraigned in the Town of Chenango Court & is being held at the Broome County Jail without bail.

Chenango River Theatre announced that the New York State's Council on the Arts Theatre Panel has awarded the theatre a 3-year grant to support overall operations. The grant award is for $7,000 a year, for 2016 to 2018, which reflects a 40% increase over previous grant awards. Chenango River Theatre is the only non-profit, professional theatre in Chenango County to receive direct NYSCA funding, and one of only two in the greater Binghamton area.

The Oneonta Department of Public Service announced that they will be constructing drainage improvements along the southbound lane of West Street between Hartwick Derive & Ravine Parkway beginning Monday morning at 7:00 AM. The project will continue for the week, from 7:00 AM to 3:30 PM daily, 1 lane traffic will be maintained with occasional interruptions, more information is available at 432-6465.

Chenango County Suicide Prevention will hold a special event with documentary filmmaker Erin Davies tonight in Norwich, Spokesperson Ann Marie Troy comments:

(Ann Marie Troy 9-11-15)

The event will begin at 7:00 P.M. at the Broad Street United Methodist Church in Norwich, more information is available at 334-8244 extension 228.

The Chenango Arts Council, Norwich Business Improvement District, and the Norwich Rotary Club announced that the Chenango Public Arts Initiative begins with a Gallery opening reception today from 5:30 to 8:00 pm; it is free and open to the public. The Gallery will be open both days of Colorscape Weekend this Saturday and Sunday from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM and will stay on display until October 25. More information is available at 336-ARTS or email at: info@chenangoarts.org

Thursday's Primary Day elections have been tabulated, In Delaware County; The Democratic Party Town of Middletown Supervisor Primary was won by Marjorie Miller. The Republican Party Primary had Delaware County Board of Supervisors Chairman Jim Eisel winning for the Harpersfield Town Supervisors position. In the Primary for Town of Walton Supervisor, Charles Gregory defeats Bruce Dolph. In Chenango County, District Attorney Joe McBride wins the Republican primary, in the city of Norwich; Christine Carnrike won The Republican Primary for Mayor over incumbent Joe Mauirano.

Republican area Assemblyman Cliff Crouch announced that he would not run for the State Senate seat vacated by the federal conviction of Tom Libous for lying to the FBI. Crouch released a Statement where he stated that he wished to remain in his current Assembly seat; former Broome County Executive & former state DMV Commissioner Democrat Barbara Fiala announced that she would seek the seat

State Police arrested 21-year-old Tyler Backus of Binghamton, for Criminal Possession of a Weapon, after Troopers responded to a Broome County 911 report of a dispute with a man holding a gun in Conklin. Troopers observed Backus driving away from the scene, he was stopped and arrested. Backus was arraigned in the Town of Chenango Court and remanded to the Broome County Jail with no bail set.

The Chenango Arts Council announced the acceptance of Request for Proposals from New York State artists for exhibition in the Mariea Brown and Raymond Loft Galleries, located in CAC facilities at 27 West Main Street, Norwich. The proposal deadline is January 6th, 2016, with a jurying process occurring mid-January for exhibition in the following year. There is no fee for submission, and CAC staff is available for technical assistance with the application process. Also, the Arts Council, the Norwich Business Improvement District and the Norwich Rotary Club, announced a “Call for Artists” for the Chenango Public Arts Initiative for this fall, Artists of all mediums are encouraged to submit applications by August 14 for a September 11th opening. More information is available at chenangoarts.org, or 336-ARTS.

the Chenango County Health Department will hold a free rabies clinic for dogs cats & domesticated Ferrets tonight. the clinic will run form 6:00 to 7:00 PM in the town of Columbus garage, more information is available at 337-1673.

The State Assembly passed legislation to name a Town of Chenango bridge after fallen State Trooper Christopher Skinner. The Assembly unanimously passed the bill, sponsored by area Assembly members Cliff Crouch & Donna Lupardo, it passed in the Senate a few days earlier. The legislation has now been sent to the governor to be signed into law. Trooper Skinner was intentionally run down while conducting a traffic stop on I-81 between Exits 6 and 7 in Chenango in May of 2014, Almond Upton of Florida is facing multiple charges for Trooper Skinners death.

State Police at Norwich arrested 22-year-old Michael Verry of Greene for 3rd degree Assault, after Troopers responded to a Chenango County 911 report of a dispute at a residence on Crestmont Drive in the Village of Greene. Verry is accused of punching a female victim in the face, causing a jaw injury. Verry was arraigned in the Village of Greene Court and remanded to the Chenango County Jail in lieu of a $5,000.00 cash bail. The court issued an order of protection against him.

The Chenango Arts Council, Norwich Business Improvement District, and the Norwich Rotary Club announced that the Chenango Public Arts Initiative, Summer 2015 has been created to bring the arts to the public in everyday life. The Public Arts Initiative will showcase local talent and give artists exposure, be placing their artwork on display in the Chenango Arts Council’s Mariea Brown and Raymond Loft Galleries from June 26 to August 28th. Gallery hours are Monday through Friday from 9am to 4pm.