WCDO Radio News

P.M. NEWS FRIDAY 4-24-26

Norwich Police Department arrested Todd Talbot of Norwich, for Endangering the Welfare of a Vulnerable Adult, Sexual Abuse, and Forcible Touching. Talbot allegedly subjected the victim to unwanted sexual contact, he was located by and taken into custody without incident. Talbot was arraigned in Norwich City Court and remanded to the custody of the Chenango County Sheriff’s Office on cash bail. He is scheduled to appear in court at a later date.

This year, the Sidney Hometown Day Parade & the annual Memorial Day parade will be combined into 1 big parade on Memorial Day, Anna Bank of SFCU explains:

(Anna Banks 4-24-26)

The parade route this year will be from Steiner Road, to Main Street, to River Street, ending at the Sidney Veterans Memorial Park on River Street.

The Jericho Arts Council & the Bainbridge Town Hall Theatre are welcoming back the Feinberg Brothers Bluegrass Band from Long Island Saturday night, for a return engagement, according to Council Spokesman Phil Wade:

(Phil Wade 4-24-26)

Tickets can be reserved at (607) 288-3882.

The Tri County Senior Center & the Delaware Valley Humane Society have teamed up for a new fundraiser for the shelter, Carol Allen of the Tri County Seniors & Erin Insinga of the Humane Society visited WCO to explain the effort:

(Carol Allen-Erin Insinga 4-24-26)

The Cookbooks should be available shortly, more information is available at the Tri County Senior Center's Facebook Page.

A.M. NEWS FRIDAY 4-24-26

The DEA National Drug Take-back Day will be this Saturday, where people can bring old expired medicines to their local collection site, from 10 am. to 2 pm. This is free and anonymous, they can not accept LIQUIDS, INHALERS, OINTMENTS, THERMOMETERS, NEEDLES OR AEROSOLS. Check for a local collection site at DEATakeBack.com.

Chenango Arts Council presents a show Sunday "Mutts Gone Nuts Unleashed" Spokesperson Mary Beth Miller explains:

(Mary Beth Miller 4-24-26)

The show will be on Sunday afternoon at 2:00 PM at the Martin W. Kappel Theater in Norwich, tickets are available at chenangoarts.org.

The Chenango County Historical Society and the Chenango County Historian’s Office will commemorate “National Historic Marker Day” today with a plaque unveiling made possible by the William G. Pomeroy Foundation’s National Register Signage Grant Program. Historical Society Executive Director Jessica Moquin explains:

(Jessica Moquin 4-24-26)

This year’s plaque unveiling will be held at 10 a.m. this morning at 72 South Broad Street in Norwich, more information is available at (607) 337–1845.

The Oxford Village Tree Board will be holding its 33rd “Tree City USA” and Arbor Day Celebration on Saturday, at 9 am at the LaFayette Park bandstand. Plans include a proclamation, Tree City USA flag and plaque presentation, and a giveaway of seedling trees and shrubs.

P.M. NEWS TUESDAY 10-21-25

The State Police Academy Graduation, will be held tomorrow in Albany at 11:00 AM at the Empire State Plaza Convention Center. The State Police will recognize 238 new Troopers who have successfully completed the 217th session of the Basic School of the New York State Police Academy. The graduation ceremony will honor the perseverance, professionalism, and dedication of the new Troopers as they join the ranks at Troops across the state.

Otsego County Food Banks, Food Pantries or other Not for Profit organizations that assist with food insecurity issues have until this Friday to apply for a Grant to assist their mission, Executive Director Jeff Katz of the Community Foundation of Otsego County Explains:

(Jeff Katz 10-21-25)

More information is available at cfotsego.org.

Commerce Chenango will host their "Breakfast with a Banker" program tomorrow at 8:30 at their new facility at 19 East Main Street in Norwich. More information is available at commercechenango.com.

21 year Skylar Clement was sentenced to 15 years in state prison, followed by 5 years of post-release supervision, for attempted murder and assault, in Otsego County Court Monday. Clement struck a person with his car, at about 40 miles an hour, in July 2024 in the Town of Butternuts, causing serious damage to the victim's leg, Clement left the scene, State Police located him & took him into custody. The incident caused serious damage to the victim’s leg.

The next National Prescription Drug Take Back Day is this Saturday, from 10 am. to 2 pm. local time. The event is sponsored by the Drug Enforcement Administration, which partners with thousands of local law enforcement agencies nationwide to set up collection sites. The event provides a safe, convenient, and anonymous way for the public to dispose of unused or expired prescription medications. Contact your local law enforcement agencies to see if they are participating this year at DEATakeBack.com

P.M. NEWS Wednesday 4-23-25

The Otsego County Conservation Association & Otsego County Planning & Solid Waste announced the winning schools of the 2024-2025 Plastic Film Recycling Challenge. The Unatego Elementary School won the elementary division with 2,122 pounds of plastic film recycled & Springbrook won in the high school division with 801 pounds of plastic film recycled. 10 participating schools diverted a total of 4,655.4 pounds of plastic film, each winning division will receive an ice cream social event.

Tri-Town Theatre's next show will be the musical “Big Fish”, at the Sidney High School Auditorium May 2nd through 4th. Destinie Smith is new to the Tri Town Theatre and she has the lead female role of Sandra Bloom:

(Destinie Smith 4-23-25)

Tickets are on sale at TritownTheatre.com, Curtain times are 7:30 pm on Friday and Saturday, May 2 and 3rd and a 2pm matinee on Sunday May 4th.

Saturday is the National DEA Drug Take back day, where people are encouraged to bring outdated medication and prescriptions to collection boxes, for proper disposal and to keep the prescriptions from getting into the wrong hands or into the waste stream. Chenango County Sheriff's Office will have Representatives at the Bainridge Fire Department at their open house this Saturday to collect those items. More information is available at dea.gov/takebackday.

A.M. NEWS WEDNESDAY 4-23-25

State Police issued a total of 22,867 tickets during this year’s “Operation Hang Up” traffic enforcement period, including 4,607 tickets for distracted driving. This special traffic detail targeted drivers using electronic devices while behind the wheel. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, 3,275 people were killed in crashes caused by distracted driving nationwide in 2023. In Troop C, 1496 tickets were issued, 154 for texting, 89 for talking on a cell phone for a total of 243 distracted driving tickets.

The Broome County Sheriff’s Office continues its search for a 48 year old Joseph Maine of Endicott, who reportedly left his house on foot on the evening of Saturday, April 19, and never returned home, the Sheriff’s Office has conducted grid searches of the surrounding neighborhood, Maine is diabetic, he may not have taken his medication recently and may be exhibiting confused behavior. Maine is described as a White Male, 6’0” and weighing 167 lbs. He was last seen wearing a light gray sweatshirt, dark Grey sweatpants, a black baseball cap with a fishhook hanging from it, and black sneakers. Tips can be called to 778-1196.

WCDO NEWS FRIDAY 10-25-24

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

On Saturday, from 10 am. to 2 pm. the Norwich City Police Department will participate in the Drug Enforcement Administration's National Prescription Drug Take Back Day event. The DEA and Norwich Police will collect tablets, capsules, patches, and other solid forms of prescription drugs, they can NOT accept syringes, sharps, and illicit drugs. Liquid products, such as cough syrup, should remain sealed in their original container. The Norwich collection will be at the rear of the City of Norwich Police Department at 18 East Main Street, Norwich. For more information and to find other collection sites, visit www.DEATakeBack.com.

The Sidney American Legion announced that they will hold a fundraiser to help the victims of recent flooding in North Carolina. The event will be this Saturday from 1:00 to 6:00 PM at the Legion on Union Street, there will be dinner & music.

The Otsego County Board of Elections announced that Early Voting for the November 5 General Election will begins tomorrow through November 3 at the Foothills Performing Arts Center, on Market Street in Oneonta & at The Meadows Office Complex, at 140 County Highway 33W in Cooperstown. Polls will be open from 9 am. to 5 pm. on Saturday, Sunday, Monday, Wednesday, and Friday. Polls will be open from 12 to 8 pm. on Tuesday and Thursday. More information is available at the Otsego County Board of Elections at (607) 547-4247.

On Saturday "AK" McEwan Lomnicki has organized a Halloween Dog Costume Contest in Downtown Sidney, she told WCDO News about her event:

(AK 10-24-24)

A portion of the proceeds will benefit the Delaware Valley Humane Society, more information about animals up for adoption can be obtained by calling (607) 563-7780.

The New York State Veterans home is Oxford is hosting "Trunk Or Treat" Saturday where area children in costumes & their families can celebrate Halloween activities with the resident of the Vet's Home, Spokesman John Wiktor explains:

(John Wiktor 10-25-24)

More information is available at 607-843-3115.

The Bainbridge Town Hall Theatre will host "On The Trail" Saturday Night with Bluegrass Music starting at 7:00 PM. Tickets can be reserved at 607-288-3882, Also, the popular annual Photography showcase is featured in the gallery, according to spokesman Phil wade:

Phil Wade 10-25-24)

Both events are being held at the Bainbridge Town Hall Theater, sponsored by the Jericho Arts Council.

The Norwitch Festival will be held in West Park in downtown Norwich tomorrow, with a variety of scheduled activities according to organizer Mindy Chawgo:

(Mindy Chawgo 10-25-24)

The event runs from 9:00 AM to 2:00 pm Saturday.

2 More American Red Cross Blood Drives are being held today, 1 from 1:30 pm. - 5:30 pm., at the New Lisbon Town Hall, another in Oneonta from 12:30 pm. - 6 pm., at the Elm Park Methodist Church, to schedule an appointment, download the American Red Cross Blood Donor App, visit RedCrossBlood.org, call 1-800-RED CROSS.

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

P.M. NEWS THURSDAY 4-25-24

Delaware County Sheriff Craig DuMond is the president of the New York State Sheriff's Association, he held a press conference in Albany this week calling on Lawmakers to do something about the surge in attack on police officers statewide:

Sheriff DuMond 4-25-26)

Sheriff DuMond said that 4 Officers in New York State have been killed in the line of duty this year already, including 2 near Syracuse last week, & he mentioned that stabbing of a Norwich Police officer recently who escaped being fatally injured, he is calling on Lawmakers to support the efforts of law enforcement with meaningful legislation before the end of the current session in June.

The DEA's National Prescription Drug Take Back Day will be held this Saturday, as they aim to prevent medication misuse and opioid addiction by encouraging the public to dispose of unneeded medications. Various collections are being organized nationwide, from 10 AM to 2:00 PM, to gather expired or unused prescription drugs. The list of Participating organizations can be found at dea.gov.

The Sidney Arbor Day Celebration will be held Friday morning at 10:00 At Keith Clark Park in Sidney, Chairperson Lorrie Roach of the Sidney Shade Tree Commission explains:

(Lorrie Roach 4-26-24)

Roach said that they are looking to add committee members to the Shade Tree Commission, those interested can talk to a committee member at today's event or call Lorrie Roach at 563-2563.

The Broome County Special Investigations Unit Task Force said officers executed the search warrant at 15 Corbett Avenue where Officers seized methamphetamines, crack cocaine, fentanyl and methadone, as well as items used for weighing and packaging narcotics. 41 year old Jeremy Bezek was charged with multiple counts of criminal possession of a controlled substance & criminally using drug paraphernalia, 25 year old Carter Dennison was charged with criminal possession of a controlled substance, both face court action shortly.

An American Red cross Blood Drive is being held today in Delhi from 1:00 to 6:00 PM at the Delhi Alliance Church, appointments can be made at RedCrossBlood.org, calling 1-800-RED CROSS or by using the Red Cross Blood Donor App.

A.M. NEWS THURSDAY 4-25-24

The Delaware County Chamber of Commerce will host a local contest of the National Civics Bee on Saturday, April 27, as middle schoolers strive to represent New York at the national competition in Washington, D.C. The local competition will be held at The Okun Theatre at SUNY Delhi, starting at 2:00 pm. Delaware County Chamber President Ray Pucci explains:

(Ray Pucci 4-25-24)

The top three finalists from the locally hosted competition advance to the May 30 statewide competition in Albany with one moving on to the third annual national contest in November. The top three finishers will receive a cash prize and trophy.

P.M. NEWS FRIDAY 4-21-22

The Guilford Town Board held a special Meeting earlier this week with representatives from the new ownership that will be constructing & operating for the High Bridge Wind Turbine Project, Town Supervisor George Senek said that the project will go forward, but the timeline has been pushed back:

(George Senek 4-21-23)

The Project still calls for 25 wind turbines to be built in the town of Guilford.

The Chenango Historical Society is teaming up with SFCU & The Friends of Rogers, for an event called "Historic Homes are Green Homes" at the Rogers center in Sherburne Saturday for Earth Day, Historical Society Executive Director Jessica Moquin explains:

(Jessica Moquin 4-21-23)

The free event will begin at 2:30 PM Saturday, more information about this & other programs are available by calling the Historical Society at 607-334-9227.

Hartwick College will celebrate Earth Day, Saturday with the world premiere of the film, The Search for Up, which was shot in Hartwick’s Observatory in early November 2022. In addition to the film screening at 6 pm. in Hartwick’s Yager Museum, the event will feature a 5 pm. opening of a showcase of creative projects by secondary students from local and regional schools. More information is available at sheehym@hartwick.edu.

Chenango Arts Council will hold the 1st of 2 Spring classes on Saturday, spokesperson Mary Beth Miller explains:

(Mary Beth Miller 4-21-23)

Miller said that the class runs from from 2:00 to 4:00 PM, Participants will receive all supplies and step by step instructions, the class will be run by Colette Dunham, more information is available at (607) 336-2787.

Sidney & Walton Fire Departments are participating in the "Recruit New York" Event tomorrow. The statewide event runs from 10:00AM to 2:00 PM as fire departments around the state look to recruit more members. Participating Fire Departments can be found at recruitny.org/participants.

A.M. NEWS FRIDAY 4-21-23

Delaware County Sheriff's Office arrested 32-year-old John Durgala of Syracuse and 26 year old Prince Johnson of Binghamton. Deputies were dispatched Wednesday to Marvin Hollow Road and State Highway 10 in the Town of Walton for a suspicious vehicle complaint. Prince Johnson was the operator of the vehicle was found to have an active Violent Felony Warrant out of Broome County and he was arrested. John Durgala provided a false identity to Deputies, he was found to have an active Violent Felony Warrant out of Broome County Sheriff’s Office in relation to Johnson’s arrest warrant. Durgala was charged with false impersonation, Obstructing Governmental Administration, he was issued appearance tickets and was directed to appear in the Town of Walton Court at a later date to answer to the charges.

An anonymous tip from the community led to multiple drug smuggling charges at the Broome County Sheriff’s Correctional Facility this week. Investigators received information from anonymous community member that an 37 year old Luis Bigio of Endicott allegedly smuggling contraband into the Correctional Facility. Investigators searched Bigio’s cell & recovered 136 suboxone strips, Bigio was charged with 2 Counts of Promoting Prison Contraband, he was serving a Broome County Court sentence related to disobeying a court mandate. Bigio was processed at the Broome County Correctional Facility and will answer for his charges at the Town of Dickinson Court on a future date.

An annual event that began following the serious flooding of 2011, Starts this afternoon at the Greenlawn Elementary School in Bainbridge & concludes tomorrow Morning, organizer Jessica Chambers explains:

(Jessica Chambers 4-21-23)

More information about items that can be dropped off today is available by calling Chambers at 267-2378.

Many area Law Enforcement agencies will be participating in National Prescription Drug Take Back Day Saturday, from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM. The list of Participating agencies on National Prescription Drug Take Back Days can be found at dea.gov/takebackday.

P.M. NEWS FRIDAY 10-28-22

The Broome County District Attorney's Office announced that 32-year-old Stephen Moran of Binghamton was arraigned in Broome County Court Thursday, he was charged with aggravated vehicular homicide, vehicular manslaughter, 2nd degree manslaughter, along with several other charges, he is accused of driving intoxicated at an excessive speed August 8th on the Vestal Parkway, his vehicle crashed into a vehicle occupied by Alfred and Paula Latessa, Alfred was pronounced dead at the scene, Paula succumbed to her injuries at an area hospital shortly after the crash.

The Greater Binghamton Airport announced today that they will be offering additional flights to New York City shortly. Officials announced that Delta Airlines will be offering 2 flights a day to LaGuardia Airport, starting on January 9th. Tickets for the New York City flights will be sold starting tomorrow.

A.M. NEWS FRIDAY 10-28-22

State Police are continuing their search to locate Frederick Mayock who was last seen on the Canadarago Lake boat launch with a kayak on October 22, 2022. Investigators are asking the public who live or have businesses near Canadarago Lake and near the boat launch on State Highway 28 to review security or surveillance footage that show a white kayak (pictured below). If anyone has video of the kayak from Saturday, October 22 between the hours of 9am and 8pm to please contact New York State Police at (607)561-7400.

The Greater Oneonta Historical Society's 16th Annual Live Benefit Auction will be held Today at the Quality Inn on Route 23 at 5:30 pm, more information is available at oneontahistory.org, or at 607-432-0960.

The 2022 New York State Cannabis Expo, Conference & Career Fair will be held this weekend at the Albany Capital Center Saturday from 6:00-9:00pm & Sunday from 10:00 am-5:00pm. Experts in the field are expected to speak to participants over the 2 day event regarding procedures & successes in other states where Marijuana has become legal for adult use.

The "NorWitch" Fall Festival will be held in Downtown Norwich Saturday, sponsored by The Norwich BID, which will include the final Saturday in the Park with Chobani as well as a variety of Halloween themed events, according to spokesman Tracy Chawgo:

(Tracy Chawgo 10-28-22)

Chawgo said that the will be numerous vendors, a pumpkin painting contest, bounce house, hay rides, plus the annual YMCA Halloween parade set at 11:00 AM.

Saturday is National Drug Take Back day nationwide. The DEA encourages people to get rid of unwanted or expired medication properly, in order to keep them out of the waste stream & out of the wrong hands, to find out where to get rid of medications, go to dea.gov/takebackday#collection-locator.

2 Otsego County Blood drives are scheduled, the 1st will be in Oneonta today from 12:00 Noon to 6:00 PM at the Elm Park Methodist Church, 401 Chestnut Street. Another Blood drive will be held Saturday from 8:00 AM to 12:00 Noon at the Burlington Flats Baptist Church. Appointments can be made using the Red Cross Blood Donor App, visiting RedCrossBlood.org or by calling 1-800-RED CROSS.

The Bainbridge Chamber of Commerce Commitment to Community Dinner will be held Saturday at the Sundown Golf & Country Club starting at 6:00PM. The Chamber will honor Barnard's Hometown Hardware as the Business of the year, Lambrecht Auction as the Business of Distinction, the Citizen of the Year is Jennifer Lambrecht & the Service Organization of the Year - Bainbridge American Legion

P.M. NEWS FRIDAY 4-29-22

A joint investigation with State Police Investigators at Sidney and Binghamton has led to the arrest of 32-year-old James Blackman of Afton. Troopers received a report accusing Blackman of inappropriate behavior with children, the investigation revealed that Blackman allegedly raped and sexually abused 2 children under the age of 11 on multiple occasions in Chenango County. Blackman was charged with 2 counts of Predatory Sex Assault Against a Child, 4 counts of Criminal Sex Act, 2 counts of Sex Abuse, and 2 counts of Endangering the Welfare of a Child. Blackman was arraigned and remanded to the Chenango County Jail.

Helios Care will hold their annual Daffodil Jazz Brunch fundraiser Saturday in Franklin, Helios Care Spokesperson Alicia Fish explains:

(Alicia Fish 4-26-22)

More information is available at helioscare.org/daffodil, or by calling 432-6773.

Hartwick College is sponsoring the "Hawks Town Fever" street fair in Oneonta this Saturday, from 1:00 to 5:00 PM On Main Street between Chestnut Street and Ford Avenue. The event will include carnival games, zip lines, live music, food trucks, The event is free and open to the public.

The Oxford Village Tree Board will be holding its 35th "Tree City USA" Arbor Day Celebration on Saturday at 9:00 am at the LaFayette Park bandstand. Plans include a proclamation, Tree City USA flag presentation, and a giveaway of seedling evergreen trees and a variety of seedling shrubs. More information is available at treeboard.oxfordny.com or (607) 843-2512.

SUNY Broome is holding their Spring Open House this weekend on Saturday from 9:00 AM to 12:00 Noon at the SUNY Broome Ice Center. SUNY faculty and staff will be present to talk to prospective students & their families, Registration is required at sunybroome.edu/open-house

“Beatles For Sale” will play at the Bainbridge Town Hall Theater Saturday Night, the Doors open at 6:00 pm. Tickets will be available at the door or reserve at 607-288-3882. Also, The Fine Arts Show will be featured in the gallery, more information is available at jerichoarts.com.

A State DEC patrol caught 30 teenagers holding a party with alcohol on Friday, April 22, at the Charles Baker State Forest in Sherburne. The group included teens ranging in age from 15 to 19 years old, including an unidentified 18-year-old from Norwich, who allegedly had 3 cases of beer, who was charged with underage possession of alcohol in a State Forest.

A.M. NEWS FRIDAY 4-29-22

The HALos Board of Directors announced their Open House at their facility at 146 Main Street in Afton tomorrow, Spokesperson Joyce Humphrey comments:

(Joyce Humphrey 4-26-22)

More information about HALos is available by calling (607) 639-4256.

Broome County Health Department is encouraging County residents to Shed the Meds during Saturday's National Prescription Drug Take Back Day. The DEA Take Back Day encourages people to get rid of expired & unwanted prescription medication properly, before they can get into the wrong hands, or into the waste stream. Residents will be able to dispose of the meds at the Broome County Health Department in Binghamton.

The State Department of Transportation is advising motorists that starting Today, eastbound traffic on I-88 will be crossed over to the westbound lanes from just west of Exit 19 in Worcester to Exit 21 in Richmondville. The crossover will result in one lane of travel in each direction, the on-ramp at Exit 20 eastbound will close, followed by the westbound off ramp at Exit 19. The crossover and ramp closures are expected to be in place for approximately 5 months. Motorists are urged to slow down and drive responsibly in work zones.

P.M. NEWS WEDNESDAY 4-27-22

The State Police BCI Unit seized methamphetamine, illegal firearms and weapons from a home in the town of Union earlier this week. On Sunday, Troopers were dispatched to an argument with “shots fired” on Spring Street. 20 year old Carson Vanco of Endicott, was in possession of an assault rifle, a disguised homemade gun, brass knuckles, plus methamphetamine and components to make methamphetamine. Vanco was charged with 4 counts of Criminal Possession of a Weapon, manufacturing Methamphetamine, Criminal Possession of a Firearm, Criminal Possession of Stolen Property, he was arraigned & was remanded to the Broome County Jail without bail.

NYSEG will be raising electric & natural gas rates starting this Sunday, after a rate increase request was approved by the Public Service Commission, who authorized the 3-year rate hike plan in November 2020. NYSEG's customers will pay more than $43 annually in higher electricity bills, their gas customers will pay about $14.40 more per year.

Broome County Leaders & the Broome County Health Department are encouraging Broome County residents to help Shed the Meds during Saturday's National Prescription Drug Take Back Day. The DEA Take Back Day encourages people to get rid of expired & unwanted prescription medication properly, before they can get into the wrong hands. Residents will be able to dispose of the meds at the Broome County Health Department.

The Jericho Arts Council Regatta Row display of Adirondack chairs and the new "Story poles" will be on the streets of Downtown Bainbridge for the next several weeks, organizer Rachel Hares explains:

(Rachel Hares 4-27-22)

The chairs & poles will be Auctioned off on Saturday May 28th at General Clinton park during this year's Canoe Regatta, the money raised will go the Jericho Arts Council to support future exhibits and activities, more information is available at 607-643-2211.

Fergie Jenkins and Ozzie Smith will be the managers On May 28th at Cooperstown’s Doubleday Field, for the Hall of Fame Classic legends game. The Classic will feature a 8 Hall of Famers, in the 12th edition of the popular seven-inning contest at Doubleday Field. Tickets are on sale by calling at 1-888-325-0470 or at baseballhall.org/hofclassic. Less tickets will be available due to the ongoing renovations at Doubleday Field.

A.M. NEWS WEDNESDAY 4-27-22

State Police responded to a Mercy Flight Helicopter crash in the town of Elba in Genesee County Tuesday afternoon at around 1:00 PM. Mercy Flight Bell 429 helicopter was on a training mission during the time of the collision. Mercy Flight pilot, 60 year old James Sauer of Churchville 60 year old Stewart Dietrick of Prosper, Texas were pronounced deceased at the scene. The FAA and the National Transportation Safety Board will be assisting in this investigation. The investigation is continuing into the cause of the accident.

Dr. William LeCates will leave his position as president and chief operating officer of Bassett Medical Center and northern region executive for Bassett Healthcare Network, His last day will be April 30. LeCates has been a physician for 20 years, LeCates will remain on Bassett’s medical staff and serve as an advisor to Bassett President & CEO Dr. Tommy Ibrahim.

P.M. NEWS FRIDAY 10-22-21

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

The Cannabis Control Board today advanced regulations for public comment that will allow for the home cultivation of medical cannabis. The regulations follow the requirements of Marijuana Regulation and Taxation Act, allowing for up to three mature plants and three immature plants per person and a cap of six mature and six immature plants within any private residence. They will now be subject to a 60-day public comment period. More information is available at cannabis.ny.gov.

Butterball has issued a recall on more than 14,000 pounds of ground turkey products after consumers complained of finding pieces of blue plastic embedded in their raw ground turkey. The items being recalled are the 2.5-pound "farm to family Butterball all-natural Ground Turkey" trays with a sell-by date of October 18th, and the 3-pound "Kroger Ground Turkey" trays with an October 17 sell-by date. The items were produced on September 28, & should be returned to the place of purchase.

A.M. NEWS FRIDAY 10-22-21

The FCC has adopted rules to establish 988 as the new, nationwide, 3-digit phone number for Americans in crisis to connect with suicide prevention and mental health crisis counselors. To ensure that calls to 988 reach the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline, area codes with a "988 Exchange, will need to transition to 10-digit dialing. Beginning THIS SUNDAY, in the 607 area, callers must dial 10-digits, the area code + telephone number, for all local calls, those who only dial the 7 digit phone number will not have their call completed, and a recording will remind the caller to hang up and dial again using the area code and the 7-digit number.

Bassett Healthcare Network will be hosting several flu and COVID-19 vaccine clinics in the upcoming weeks. The Delhi Health Center is holding a patient flu shot clinic today from 10 am. - noon. Appointments are required. Call 607-746-0550. Also, Bassett Family Medicine State Route 28 on Southside in Oneonta is holding vaccine clinics for established Bassett patients on Saturday, from 8:15 am. - 11:45 am., as well as on November 6th, & 20th. Patients may make an appointment by calling Oneonta Health Center 607-433-1790 or Bassett Family Medicine 607-431-1015.

Saturday will be the 20ᴛʜ ᴀɴɴɴᴜᴀʟ ᴛʜʜᴇ ɴᴀᴛɪᴏɴᴀʟ ᴘʀʀᴇsᴄʀɪᴘᴛɪᴏɴ ᴅʀᴜɢ ᴛᴀᴋᴇ--ʙᴀᴄᴋ ᴅᴀʏʏ. Law Enforcement agencies nationwide will collect the unwanted medications at various locations and submit them for destruction; more information is available at takebackday.dea.gov.

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

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

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

(Alecia O'Neill 10-22-21)

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

P.M. NEWS FRIDAY 10-23-20

Delaware County Sheriff's Department arrested 19 year old Dakota Hall of Fleischmanns for 2nd degree murder following a domestic dispute in Fleischmanns Thursday night.  Deputies, State Police & EMT's responded at about 10:50 PM Thursday night to a reported stabbing at a residence on Main Street. The stabbing victim, 27-year-old Eric Hall, was taken to Margaretville Memorial Hospital and died for injuries sustained in the attack.  Dakota Hall was taken into custody without incident by Deputies for allegedly stabbing his brother; Hall was arraigned and was remanded to the Delaware County Jail without bail pending future court action.  The investigation is ongoing.

Delaware County Sheriff's Deputies investigated a head-on collision in the Town of Franklin on Wednesday afternoon.  Deputies reported that at about 5:30 PM, they responded with EMT's to the accident on County Highway 21 near Leland Hull Road.  Deputies determined that a vehicle driven by 50 year-old Jeffrey Lewis of Walton crossed over the center line and collided with a vehicle driven by 62 year-old Wayne Knorr of Laurens, causing the Knorr vehicle to overturn several times.  Knorr was taken to Fox Hospital in Oneonta for a head injury; Lewis was taken to Delaware Valley Hospital also for the treatment of a head injury.  Lewis’ driving privileges were revoked as a result of previous alcohol related offense, he was charged with aggravated unlicensed operation of a motor vehicle, operation of a motor vehicle without an ignition interlock device, failure to keep right and unlicensed operation of a motor vehicle, he was released to appear in Town of Franklin court at a later date.  Alcohol was not a contributing factor in this accident.

The Chenango County Health Department announced that their contact tracing team interviewed a confirmed positive COVID-19 case, that individual reported having visited the Greene Community Fitness Center at 7 South Canal Street in Greene between October 11th & 14th during the infectious period.   Any individual frequenting this establishment during the time indicated below should closely monitor themselves for COVID symptoms, those who exhibit symptoms should self-quarantine and contact their medical provider.  Chenango County Public Health announced their latest COVID 19 statistics today.  Currently they have 47 Active Cases, 230 Quarantines with 2 hospitalizations.  They have had 347 Total Confirmed Cases, 253 Total Recoveries, 7 deaths & they have conducted over 33,900 tests, more information is available at 337-1660.

The Prospect Hill Cemetery Association Board is looking to receive a grant to help with repairs to the wall near East Main Street, they have decided to apply to Southern Tier Tuesdays.com and see if we could a $2,000 Grant.  Association President Debra Tompkins-Cornett explains how people can help by voting once a day for 5 days, starting this Sunday:

(Debra Tompkins-Cornett 10-23-20)

Prospect Hill Cemetery has been nominated along with 11 others for the Grant; people can go to southerntiertuesdays.com to vote beginning this Sunday.

Early voting begins tomorrow around the region.  Area Counties have different times & locations for early voting from tomorrow through November 1st, contact your county Board of Elections for specific dates & times.

A.M. NEWS FRIDAY 10-23-20

Broome County Health Department announced that they have 103 new COVID 19 cases and 55 recoveries, the county's active cases up to 646.  There was another death reported, bringing the county's death count up to 89, the number of people hospitalized went up by 5 to a total of 19.  The total number of cases is up to 3060, 2325 have recovered.  The County has a 3.7% positivity rate; it's over 9% in the state designated "Yellow" zone.

The Oneonta City School District have switched middle and high school students to remote learning yesterday & again today after being notified of a teacher testing positive.  NO student or any faculty/staff member is deemed a “close contact” to the affected teacher, according to a district letter; all elementary buildings will open as normal. Middle & High School students are scheduled to return on the previous hybrid schedule Monday.

Otsego County Department of Health reported 10 new cases of COVID 19 Thursday; they are investigating a cluster of cases that originated at a wedding that has now spread into the community.  Current COVID numbers, they report 952 total confirmed cases, 27 active cases with  2 hospitalizations, they've had 7 deaths,  747 probable and confirmed cases linked to SUNY Oneonta &  Hartwick College reported 2 more cases of COVID-19 have been detected, they have 3 active cases on campus; the total number of cases is 24.

Delaware County Public Health reported 4 new cases of COVID 19 Thursday, with 12 active cases, 3 hospitalizations, & 73 in quarantine.  Delaware County is up to 149 cases since March with 8 deaths and 129 recoveries.

The Bainbridge Chamber of Commerce will hold their "Commitment to Community" Annual Dinner Saturday Night.  The guest Speakers will be Kerri Green of Commerce Chenango & Assemblyman Cliff Crouch, at Club 55 on Union Street in Sidney.  The Chamber will honor their Citizen of the Year award winner Roy Nabinger, their Business of the Year; My Home Gym, The Business of Distinction award goes to John’s Garage and the Service Organization of the Year is The Bainbridge Lion’s Club.

The Baristacrats Coffee Bar of Afton is teaming up with Gavin's Pizzeria on Division Street in Sidney on Sunday; they will be donating a percentage of the day's sales to the Afton VFW Building Project.  Baristacrats owner Alexis Van Buren explains:

(Alexis Van Buren 10-23-20)

Van Buren said that The Afton VFW building needs renovations; the building was built in 1898.  Contributions can also be mailed to P.O. Box 238, Afton NY 13730.  The combined effort will be held at Gavin’s Sunday from 12:00 Noon to 6:00 PM.

DEA's next National Prescription Drug Take Back Day is this Saturday, from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM. The National Prescription Drug Take Back Day aims to provide a safe, convenient, and responsible means of disposing of prescription drugs, many local police departments also have drop boxes available year round to get expired medications or unused narcotics out of the waste stream or out of criminal hands.  A listing of local law enforcement agencies & fire Departments participating can be found at the WCDO Facebook page.

The Drug Enforcement Administration and more than 4,200 national, tribal, and community law enforcement partners will hold another National Prescription Drug Take-Back Day tomorrow.  Americans can take their pills to one of over 5,600 collection sites across the country between 10:00 AM and 2:00 PM, the service is free and anonymous. The public can find a nearby collection site by visiting www.dea.gov (http://link.rushprnews.com/c/443/af408235670c694d0adc387d0c51374638b951c789df93ab4aee75a3d160f28c), clicking on the “Got Drugs?” icon, and following the links to a database where they enter their zip code, or they can call 800-882-9539 (tel:800-882-9539).

The Delaware county Department of Public Works will hold an informational meeting Saturday, regarding the County Route 35 “Stream Relocation” Project on Sidney Center. The meeting will be held at the fireman’s hall in Sidney Center tomorrow   starting at 10:00 AM

The village of Sidney will hold their 22nd annual “Arbor Day” celebration today at Keith Clark Park. The event begins at 10:00 AM at the pavilion; a tree will be planted in the park in honor of Jim Suriano, who has served on the Sidney Shade tree commission for many years.