WCDO Radio News

P.M. NEWS TUESDAY 4-28-26

The land has been cleared & construction will begin soon for the new Stewart's Shop on West Main Street & Steiner Road in Sidney, Stewart's Director of Real Estate Chuck Marshall told WCDO About the store:

(Chuck Marshall 4-28-26)

Marshall said that the new Stewart's Shop in Sidney should be open for business this July.

The Butternut Valley Alliance is accepting artist submissions for the annual "On the Trail of Art" forest exhibition, to be held June 13-14 at General Jacob Morris State Forest. Artists are invited to submit weatherproof work for outdoor display along a forest trail transformed into an immersive gallery. Artists may also contribute work to BVA's online auction. Submissions can be made at butternutvalleyalliance.org or by emailing info@butternutvalleyalliance.org.

A.M. NEWS TUESDAY 4-28-26

41 year old Frank Giacalone of Walton, pleaded guilty to Felony Driving While Intoxicated in Delaware County Court, The plea was entered as part of a negotiated disposition where it is anticipated that Giacalone will be sentenced to 1 to 3 years in state prison. State Police responded to the report of a vehicle hit a fire hydrant on Mead Street in the Village of Walton, then backed up and drove away. A Trooper observed a piece of the vehicle’s front bumper near the fire hydrant, found the vehicle matching the description, missing a portion of its front bumper, Giacalone failed field sobriety tests & was arrested, he'll be sentenced at a later date.

Delaware County DPW will be closing bridges to through traffic for inspections, including the Hamden Covered Bridge on May 11th & 12th, the Downsville Covered Bridge May 13th to May 15th, the Fitches Covered Bridge on May 16, through Monday, May 18, The traveling public should use alternate routes.

PAK Construction and other area businesses are teaming up for the 5th Annual Guilford Roads Clean up Day on April 11th. Paul Knowles of PAK Construction of Guilford explains:

(Paul Knowles 3-24-26)

Residents of Guilford, Rockdale, Mount Upton, & Rockwells Mills are encouraged to clean up trash they find on the roadside, bring in 2 bags to PAK on County Road 36 on Saturday April 11th, more information is available at the Town of Guilford Facebook page.

A.M. NEWS TUESDAY 3-24-26

The State DEC reported that Hunters harvested an estimated 1,759 black bears across New York during the 2025-26 hunting seasons, which was one of the highest totals in State History. DEC Officials said that the 2025 bear harvest was second only to the 2003 season. The Southern Zone accounted for an estimated 1,202 bears, The Northern Zone saw 557 bears harvested, which was slightly lower than 2024 but still above the 10-year average.

The Delaware County Business Alliance will hold a networking breakfast on Friday at 8:30 am. in Walton at Packin’ Heat Bar & Grill. The event registration deadline is Wednesday at delawarecounty.org.

The Delaware County Sheriff’s Office is looking for 29 year old Charles Dieterich, he is wanted on an arrest warrant issued by the Town of Harpersfield Court, for 2nd degree assault, obstructing governmental administration in the second degree and resisting arrest. Dieterich is described as a male standing 6 feet tall with black hair and brown eyes. Anyone with information about Dieterich’s whereabouts is asked to contact the Delaware County Sheriff’s Office at (607) 832-5555 or submit a tip through the sheriff’s mobile application.

AM NEWS THURSDAY 12-18-25

51 year old Timothy Hoose of Berkshire, was found guilty of Grand Larceny following a jury trial in Broome County Court. The conviction stems from criminal conduct between September 2023, and January 2024, in the Town of Windsor, where Hoose, doing business as H&H Contracting, entered into a construction contract with the victim to build a garage structure on the victim’s property, the victim paid a $15,000 down payment, Hoose illegally used over $3,000 of those funds for purposes unrelated to the project. Sentencing is scheduled for March 18, 2026, in Broome County Court, Hoose faces up to 7 years in State Prison.

An American Red Cross Blood Drive is being held in Delhi from 1 pm. - 6 pm., today at the Delhi Alliance Church, on State Route 28, schedule an appointment by using the Red Cross Blood Donor App, visiting RedCrossBlood.org or calling 1-800-RED CROSS.

Delaware County Business Alliance & the Department of Economic Development have released the 2025 Business Needs Survey, as they look for feedback on challenges like workforce, housing, broadband, and growth. The survey is linked on Department of Economic Development Face Book Page or can be found at surveymonkey.com.

The Delaware County Sheriff’s Office announced the successful completion of its annual No-Shave October and November fundraiser, in which members of the Road Patrol Division and Corrections Division raised $2,500 to support veterans in Delaware County. This year’s proceeds were donated to the Delaware County Veterans Service Agency.

This is the last week for donations to area locations for the Toys for Joy program, operated by the Delaware County Business Alliance & Delaware Opportunities. The toys will be collected shortly by the Business Alliance & will be turned over to Delaware Opportunities for distribution to under-privileged children in time for Christmas.

P.M. NEWS Monday 11-24-25

A Delaware County Grand Jury returned a 4 Count Indictment against 79 year old Stanley Suchy of Stamford, for 3 counts of Predatory Sexual Assault Against a Child and 1 count Course of Sexual Conduct Against a Child, for allegedly performing sexual acts with a minor child, if convicted Suchy faces a maximum sentence of 25 years to life in prison, he was arraigned & was remanded to the Delaware County jail without bail.

The Delaware County Sheriff's Office is conducting a food drive through December 30th. County Residents are encouraged to drop off non-perishable & Non-Expired Food Items to the Sheriff's Office front lobby at Phoebe Lane in Delhi, between 8:00 Am & 8:00 PM, all of the items collected to will donated to the Food Bank at Delaware Opportunities for distribution to food pantries throughout the County, those who can not make it to the Sheriff's Office, can call 607-832-5595 to make arrangements for a deputy to pick up the donated items.

The Delaware County Business Alliance is now accepting applications for the 2026 Leaderful Delaware Emerging Leaders Program, designed for business and community leaders who are interested in becoming more engaged in shaping the region's future. The 5-session program dates are February 12, March 12, April 9, May 14, and June 11, and will be conducted by former Alliance President Ray Pucci. More information is available at 1-607-746-2281.

A.M. NEWS MONDAY 11-24-25

Delaware County District Attorney Shawn Smith announced the indictment of 18 year old James Tinebra of Plainview, A Delaware County Grand Jury indicted Tinebra for Burglary & Grand Larceny for stealing a State Police Vehicle from a repair shop in Davenport on November 5th at about 3:45 AM. Tinebra was located later in the day by the Schodack Police Department in Rensselaer County, where he is also facing separate charges.

Delaware County Sheriff’s Deputies were dispatched to a domestic dispute, in progress, in the Town of Harpersfield, Deputies arrested 35-year-old Michael Turim of Harpersfield, for Strangulation, Assault, Endangering the Welfare of a Child, Criminal Mischief and Unlawful Imprisonment, Turim was turned over to the Delaware County Correctional Facility where he was held for arraignment.

Delaware County Business Alliance announced that Todd Pascarella has been named as the organization's new President, replacing Ray Pucci, who has retired. Pascarella has been a Delaware County Chamber & Business Alliance member for many years, and served on the board of directors for 6 years including as the Board chairman, he is also the executive director of the Catskill Revitalization Corporation, which has been recently rebuilding and restarting the Delaware & Ulster Railroad and he was co-founder of Union Grove Distillery in Arkville, and once served as the mayor of the Village of Fleischmanns.

The 1st annual Sidney Brew-to-Brew 5K on Saturday, had 180 participants finish the race and they raised about $3,000 to benefit the Uplift Collective and the Delaware Valley Humane Society. 25 year old Jon Hendley, from Oneonta, was the first male finisher and 30-year-old Lauren Castelucci of Apalachin was the first female finisher, with a time of 20:20.

Fenimore Art Museum presents "Exploring Calvin & Hobbes" beginning Saturday, September 13, through December 31st, which revisits the comic strip created by Bill Watterson from 1985 to 1995, it appeared in 2,400 newspapers worldwide at the height of its popularity. For more information on this exhibition or to pre-register for any of the related programs, visit fenimoreart.org.

A.M. NEWS Tuesday 9-9-25

Delaware County Sheriff’s Deputies were dispatched to a domestic dispute recently in the Town of Meredith, it was determined that the physical domestic had occurred in the presence of children where it was alleged that the suspect closed a car door on the victim’s leg with the intent to cause injury. Deputies arrested of 32-year-old Troy Ladlee for 3rd degree Assault, Menacing, and 2 counts of Endangering the Welfare of a Child, Ladlee was processed and was arraigned and released. Ladlee was directed to appear in the Town of Meredith Court at a later date to answer the charges.

A recent report by State Comptroller Tom DiNapoli examined healthcare professional shortages in 16 rural counties in New York state, including Chenango & Delaware Counties locally, and found shortfalls in primary care, pediatric, and obstetrician and OBGYN doctors, Chenango Memorial Hospital's new President & CEO Cecil Miller told WCDO News how they will try to correct that:

(Cecil Miller 8-20-25)

The Comptroller's Report also found a shortage of mental health practitioners, as well as dentists around the rural counties. The full report can be found at osc.ny.gov.

Broome County Sheriff's Office arrested 30 year old Patrick Summers of Deposit for Criminal Mischief, 3 counts of Menacing, 3 counts of Harassment and 1 count of Disorderly Conduct with Violent Behavior, Summer was arrested following an investigation into a recent weapons complaint in the Town of Windsor.

A.M. NEWS Wednesday 8-20-25

The Delaware County Business Alliance will recognize several businesses and groups for their service to the county’s business community at its 2025 Business Awards celebration today, Alliance President Ray Pucci told WCDO News about this year's award winners:

(Ray Pucci 8-20-25)

The 2025 Delaware County Business Awards celebration will be held at Stonewall Estates on Holmes Hollow Road in DeLancey, beginning at 5:30 until 8:30 PM.

Delaware County Public Health Free Rabies Vaccination Clinic For dogs, cats, and ferrets on today from 5:00PM-7:00PM, at Delhi Fire Hall, 140 Delview Terrace Extension, more information is available at (607) 832-5200.

Delaware County Sheriff's Deputies arrested 27 year old Derek Mead of Walton for with 1 count each of Endangering the Welfare of a Child, Criminal Obstruction of Breathing, Assault and Unlawful Imprisonment, following the investigation into a domestic dispute last Tuesday in the Village of Walton. Mead is accused of being involved in a physical domestic dispute with another person while a child was present. Mead was processed and was turned over to Delaware County Correctional Facility to await Arraignment.

The Delaware County Business Alliance will recognize several businesses and groups for their service to the county’s business community at its 2025 Business Awards celebration on August 20 at Stonewall Estate in DeLancey. Alliance President Ray Pucci told WCDO News about this year's winners:

(Ray Pucci 7-21-25)

Tickets for the dinner event are $95 per person. Reservations are required and may be made under the Events column at DelawareCounty.org.

A.M. NEWS MONDAY 7-21-25

Warren County 911 received a call from 45 year old Luciano Frattolin of Canada, reporting his 9-year-old daughter Melina Frattolin was missing, with a possible abduction, in Lake George. As the case progressed, law enforcement identified inconsistencies in the father’s account of events and the timeline he provided. The girl was found dead in Ticonderoga, the Warren County Sheriff’s Office has turned the investigation over to State Police. Luciano Frattolin, has been arrested and is currently being held at the Essex County Jail, Luciano Frattolin, the father of Melina Frattolin, was charged with second-degree murder and concealing of a corpse, The investigation is ongoing,

State Police are investigating the accidental death of a East Branch Fire Department Assistant Fire Chief Jason McGlone Thursday night, who was responding to a report of a vehicle that had struck a utility pole on State Highway 30 in the town of Hancock. A preliminary investigation determined that a low-hanging electrical wire was in contact with the top of the fire truck, when Assistant Chief McGlone exited the vehicle and made contact with the metal door and the ground, he was electrocuted and was pronounced deceased. The original crash involved a pickup truck operated by 54 year old Joseph Bellows of Downsville that veered off the roadway, struck a guardrail and utility pole. He was transported to Delaware Valley Hospital, he was charged with Driving While Intoxicated & was issued appearance tickets for Hancock Town Court on September 8th, 2025. The investigation into the firefighter’s death remains ongoing.

Sidney EMS & State Police responded to a motor vehicle accident on Delaware County Route 4 in Sidney, initial reports suggested that a vehicle rolled off the roadway with 3 possible injuries Sunday at about 5:40 PM Sunday, injured occupants were taken to area hospitals for the treatment of injuries, the cause of the crash is under investigation, The Operator was identified as 20 year old Kadance Maus of Walton.

P.M. NEWS FRIDAY 7-18-25

A ceremony was held today for Amphenol's 100th anniversary, for employees, dignitaries, customers, at the plant in Sidney, General Manager Kyle Brown comments:

(Kyle Brown 7-18-25)

Amphenol President & CEO Adam Norwitt told WCDO News about the special bond between the company & the local employees for 100 years:

(Adam Norwitt 7-18-25)

The community is invited to an Open House at Amphenol Saturday from 12:00 Noon to 6:00 PM at the new plant on Delaware Avenue.

The Norwich Police Department & Sherburne Police Department announces the apprehension of 42 year old Derek Balcom of Norwich, following a coordinated investigation and arrest operation. Balcom was charged with 2nd degree Assault, Grand Larceny, Conspiracy, Resisting Arrest, & Obstruction of Governmental Administration, On July 2nd, Balcom is accused of unlawfully entered the premises of UHS Chenango Memorial Hospital and stole a side-by-side UTV, on July 4th, he allegedly entered the property of a local business, obtaining keys to fleet vehicles before fleeing the scene. Balcom was located today in Sherburne, he fled from officers and fought with law enforcement, resulting in injuries to a Norwich Detective. Balcom was arraigned and is being held with no bail.

The Delaware County Department of Emergency Services announced the passing of East Branch Fire Department Assistant Chief Jason McGlone. The East Branch Fire Department responded to a motor vehicle crash, in the course of his duties, Assistant Chief McGlone suffered traumatic injuries, medical attention was rendered on scene, but he succumbed to his injuries.

The Greater Afton Area Chamber of Commerce is holding a "Summer Party" Sunday from 4:00 to 8:00 PM at 174 Main Street in Afton. The event will honor 130 years of the Afton Fire Department, there will be food & live music at the event.

A.M. NEWS Friday 7-18-25

Amphenol of Sidney is celebrating 100 years in operation in the village of Sidney, with an Open House on Saturday with a host of activities & exhibits. The day will start at 8:00 with the Spark in the Park 5K race, and then the activities will shift to the new plant, spokesman Chris Cappello explains:

(CHRIS CAPPELLO 7-18-25)

Cappello also wrote a 500 plus page book about the history of the plant in Sidney since it opened 100 years ago in 1925, the event runs from 12:00 to 6:00 PM tomorrow at the main facility at Delaware Avenue in Sidney, it is free & open to the public.

THE 3RD ANNUAL CHENANGO COUNTY PRIDEFEST IS SATURDAY, this year it has been moved to the CHENANGO COUNTY FAIR GROUNDS IN NORWICH, Spokesman R.J. Shay explains:

(RJ SHAY 7-18-25)

The event runs from 11:00 AM to 5:00 PM, More information is available at CHENANGO COUNTY PRIDE ALLIANCE.ORG.

Otsego County Residents will have their annual Hazardous Waste Collection events coming up in August, Otsego County Solid Waste Department spokesman Kyle King explains:

(Kyle King 7-11-25)

For more information regarding the Hazardous Waste Collection, or for small businesses to register, call 607-547-4225.

Delaware County Business Alliance will hold a meeting today at the Meredith Inn at 10:00 AM, regarding improving the ability to make a presentation at work. More information is available by calling (607) 746-2281

P.M. NEWS WEDNESDAY 6-11-25

The Delaware County Board of Supervisors approved of a plan to safeguard an original County landfill cell, County Solid Waste Manager Tyson Robb Explains:

(Tyson Robb 6-11-25)

Robb said that the project has been slowed down somewhat with all of the rain in the County since the start of the project.

The Delaware County Sheriff's Office is seeking the public's assistance in locating 39 year old Stephanie White, who is wanted on a probation violation. White is described as a white female, about 5'1" with brown hair & hazel eyes, anyone with information should call 607-832-5555 or go to "Submit A Tip" on the Sheriff's Office App.

The Afton Central School District closed at 11:30 this morning & all after school activities are canceled. The water in Afton was discolored or dirty, the Village of Afton Public Works Department told WCDO News that there was no water main break, but road crews using jack hammers adversely affected the quality of the water earlier today, it should clear up and there is NO order to boil water in effect.

A.M. NEWS WEDNESDAY 6-11-25

Delaware County Public Health, the New York National Guard and State Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services, is hosting a Citizen Preparedness Training Event today in Walton, DCPH Spokesperson Isabella Ziolkowski comments:

(Isabella Ziolkowski 6-11-25)

This event is free and open to the public. Registration is required to attend, call Delaware County Public Health at 607-832-5200. The event will be held from 6:00PM – 7:30PM at the New Hope Community Church, 45 Stockton Avenue, Walton.

The Delaware County Business Alliance reminds members to Nominate your favorite businesses for the annual Business Awards. All nominees must be Delaware County Business Alliance members, Nominations may be made in three categories: Business of the Year, Rising Star New Business, and Business Advocate. The Awards will be presented at the annual business award dinner in August. More information is available at delawarecounty.org.

The James R. Thomson Center for Business Development was recently dedicated by the Catskill Development Foundation in gratitude for Thompson's leadership, innovative vision, and advocacy for private sector businesses in Delaware County, Delaware County Business Alliance President Ray Pucci comments:

(Ray Pucci 6-4-25)

Thomson led the Delaware County Chamber, the County Industrial Development Agency & he helped create the e-Center facility at 5 1/2 Main Street in Delhi.

P.M. NEWS TUESDAY 5-20-25

41 year old Christopher Davis of Oneonta, pleaded guilty to Course of Sexual Conduct Against a Child in Delaware County Court Monday. Davis engaged in sexual conduct against a child less than 13 years old for almost 8 years, starting while the child was only 7 years old and continuing until she turned 13, between 2012 and 2018. The case was scheduled for a two-week jury trial slated to begin Monday, Davis admitted Friday to the charges, he was remanded to the Delaware County Correctional Facility, without bail, pending his sentencing on July 15th, Davis is expected to serve 10-12 years in State Prison followed by 20 years of post-release supervision, he will be required to register as a sex offender & a full stay away order of protection ‎will be issued on behalf of the victim until 2065.

State Department of Labor today released preliminary local area unemployment rates for April. the State’s seasonally adjusted unemployment rate held steady at 4.2%, Locally, Chenango County Had 3.0%, Delaware County 3.4% and Otsego County 3.5% unemployment rates in April.

The Delaware County Chamber of Commerce had their Re-brand Launch Party at SUNY Delhi Monday, President Ray Pucci said that the new brand is the "Delaware County Business Alliance":

(Ray Pucci 5-20-25)

Pucci said that the organization will still act as an advocate for area businesses, and will offer the same programs as before. Their office will remain on Main Street in Delhi & for the time being the website will be at delawarecounty.org.

A.M. NEWS TUESDAY 5-20-25

State Police announced the annual “Buckle Up New York, Click It or Ticket” campaign officially kicked off Monday and runs through June 1. During this time, Police will have more patrols, conduct more traffic stops, and will maintain a zero tolerance policy for unbuckled drivers and passengers. Seat belts reduce the risk of injury or death in a crash by 20%, an average of 200 New Yorkers die each year due to not buckling up.

Oneonta City Officials announced that On Sunday, beginning at approximately 8:00 am and continuing until approximately 4:00 pm, NYSEG crews will be shutting off electrical service to businesses and apartments on Main Street, Water Street, and Market Street. NYSEG will be contacting people in the affected areas by phone. For more information, call the Department of Public Works at 432-2100.

An American Red Cross Blood Drive is being held today until 6:00 PM at the Delhi Alliance Church, appointments can be made at RedCrossBlood.org, call 1-800-RED CROSS or use the Red Cross Blood Donor App.

Commerce Chenango's next Business After Hours Event will be held today at Preferred Mutual Insurance in New Berlin. The event will run from 4:30 to 6:00 PM.

Delaware County Public Health will be conducting a Car Safety Seat Event today. Certified Child Passenger Safety Technicians will be at Delhi Campus Child Care Center, on Arbor Hill Road from 3pm-5pm to check car seats and give instruction to parents and caregivers on proper car seat installation and use. Please bring your child or children and the vehicle owner’s manual and car seat manual;more information is available at 607-832-5200.

31 year old Cachet Fernandez of Unadilla was convicted of Failing to Register as a Sex Offender, on Monday in Delaware County Court, Fernandez appeared in Delaware County Court for a conference on his pending case, after the conference, he pleaded guilty to the indictment. Fernandez relocated from Delaware County to Binghamton, but never changed his address with the State Sex Offender Registry. Judge John Hubbard sentenced Fernandez to a 3-year conditional discharge, if he fails to keep his address current during that 3-year period, or violates any laws, he is subject to being re-sentenced to 1 and 1/3 to 4 years in state prison.

Butternut Valley Alliance will hold its annual “On the Trail of Art” Festival Saturday & Sunday at the Texas Schoolhouse State Forest in New Lisbon. The trail will feature student artists from Edmeston, Gilbertsville-Mount Upton and Morris Central schools, Butternut Valley Alliance Spokesperson Maggie Brenner explains:

(Maggie Brenner 6-4-24)

Brenner said that Admission to the event is free, reservations & more information is available at Butternutvalleyalliance.org.

A.M. NEWS TUESDAY 6-4-24

20 year old Aidan Demorier of Johnson City, was sentenced to 1 1/3 to 4 years in prison for Bail Jumping in Delaware County Court. On April 1, 2022, Demorier failed to appear in court after being released on his own recognizance, On March 21, the Delaware County Grand Jury indicted Demorier, An arrest warrant was issued, and he was taken into custody & he pleaded guilty & was sentenced yesterday.

The Delaware County Chamber of Commerce will be holding a Web Presence Seminar for Business owners and non-profit organization leaders will view their digital marketing efforts. The seminar will be conducted by Sean Griffin of Cornerstone Services TODAY, in the meeting room at the Business Center at 5 ½ Main Street in Delhi, starting at 10:00 am.

About 30 residents from Morris and surrounding towns met at the Morris Firehouse on May 23 for a follow-up to the news that Sidney Federal Credit Union intends to establish banking services in the Village of Morris. The meeting was organized by the Butternut Valley Alliance, whose task force began working to find an alternate bank when Community Bank, N.A. ended 167 years of banking services in Morris on January 19, Maggie Brenner of the Butternut Valley Alliance explains:

(Maggie Brenner 5-28-24)

Present at the meeting were SFCU president and CEO Jim Reynolds and Andrew Smith, SFCU’s vice president of sales and marketing, who gave updates on the status of the SFCU-BVA agreement and answered questions from the public. The meeting was recorded and is available on YouTube.

A.M. NEWS Tuesday 5-28-24

State Police conducted an Underage Drinking Initiative in Otsego and Delaware Counties recently. 11 businesses were checked for compliance, with 1 person charged with Unlawful Sale of Alcohol to a Minor, after selling alcohol to person under the age of 21, at Betty Beavers Fuel Stop on County Road 48 in the town of Otego. The businesses that passed were in Oneonta, Laurens, Hartwick, Milford, Otego, & Davenport. 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.

The Delaware County Chamber of Commerce will be holding a Web Presence Seminar for Business owners and non-profit organization leaders to review their digital marketing efforts. The seminar will be held on June 4 & will be conducted by Sean Griffin of Cornerstone Services. The free seminar will be held on June 4 in the meeting room at the Business Center at 5 ½ Main Street in Delhi, starting at 10:00 am. Attendance is limited and advance registration is required at DelawareCounty.org

Afton residents and business owners John & Judy Hinman purchased the land & the Carriage house, at the site of the former Silo Restaurant in Greene, they told WCDO news about their upcoming "Sneak Peak" at the site:

(John & Judy Hinman 7-26-23)

3 local bands will perform at the Sneak Peak on August 5th, The Hinman's said that the long distance plan is to have many of the events that were previously held at the Silo Restaurant, at the New Silo Retreat.

Improvements & preparations are underway at the Delaware County Fairgrounds in Walton, August 14th to the 19th, Spokesman Jason Craig said that attendance has been increasing post-COVID:

(Jason Craig 7-26-23)

Tickets and the schedule of events can be found at delawarecountyfair.org.

A.M. NEWS Wednesday 7-26-23

The Broome County Sheriff’s Office is investigating a burglary that occurred on July 17th at the Mirabito Gas Station at Old Route 17 in Damascus. The suspect arrived in an white four door sedan, possibly a BMW. The suspect used a sledgehammer to smash the front door and make entry. Packs and cartons of cigarettes were stolen from the location and the suspect fled with the proceeds and the sledgehammer. Anyone with information should call 607-778-6500

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

An American Red Cross Blood Drive will be held in Delhi today, from 9:00 AM to 2:00 PM at the Delhi Alliance Church. To make an appointment, simply download the American Red Cross Blood Donor App, visit RedCrossBlood.org, call 1-800-RED CROSS.

The Delaware County Board of Supervisors recently approved a resolution to Suspend the Gas Tax, starting June 1st. The county’s suspension runs through March of 2024.

The Delaware County Chamber of Commerce will hold their next Business & Breakfast event tomorrow from 8:30 to 10:00 am in the Maple Room at the Hancock House Hotel on East Front Street in Hancock. Registration is available at delawarecounty.org.

Alliance for Manufacturing and Technology will host an OSHA Ergonomic Safety Training on March 23, in the Commerce Chenango Community Room from 1:00 pm. to 3:30 pm. The event is geared towards manufacturers who employ less than 250 employees, more information is available at Commerce Chenango at 607-334-1400, the deadline to sign up is March 21st.

Delaware County Sheriff’s Deputies & the Downsville Fire Department and Emergency Squad responded to a 911 report of a motor vehicle accident Sunday Morning on County Highway 7; The Cat Hollow Road in the Town of Colchester. Upon arrival, first responders found the involved vehicle fully engulfed in flames. Following fire suppression, responders found that the vehicle’s driver was deceased, there were no other occupants. Investigators determined that 41 year old Anthony Driskell of Unadilla, lost control of his vehicle, left the roadway and struck a tree. The cause of this accident remains under investigation.

Delaware County Sheriff's Deputies investigated a fatal motor vehicle accident on State Highway 10 in the Town of Walton Friday Night. 21 year old Aaron Tubbs of Treadwell was operating a bicycle on State Hwy 10, when he was fatally struck by a vehicle operated by 66 year old Michelle Mason of Hamden. Mason and her passenger were uninjured. The cause of the collision remains under investigation.

The City of Oneonta has contracted with McFarland Johnson of Binghamton to complete a Master Plan Update for the Oneonta Municipal Airport, which is required to develop and update by the Federal Aviation Administration and reviews and considers potential uses of the Airport, as well as their impacts on current facilities and requirements for additional facilities, over the next 20 years. McFarland Johnson is reviewing the current use of the Airport, & they have developed a survey for the local business community at surveymonkey.com/r/8CY9ML6

A community preparedness class will be held on September 11th from 6:00 to 8:00 PM at Circle drive Alliance Church. Registration swill be accepted through today at DISASTER.SALVATION ARMY USA.ORG; The class will prepare participants in how to deal with floods, fires & snow storms.

State Police arrested 49 year old Christine Pecoraro of Oneonta for Aggravated DWI with a B.A.C of .28%, following an accident on State Route 357 in Franklin. Troopers found a vehicle in the lawn of a residence, after an investigation, Pecoraro was arrested & was arraigned in the town of Davenport Court where she was remanded to the Delaware County Jail on $1,000 cash bail or $2,000 bond. Her next court appearance is September 27th.

State Primary Elections will be held September 13th; Polls will be open from noon to 9:00 PM. The Delaware County Board of Elections reminds voters the registered Democrats will vote for candidates for Governor, Lieutenant Governor, Attorney General, and State Senator in the 42nd District & Town of Middletown Council. Delaware County Republicans will vote for a 122nd Assembly candidate, Reform Party voters will decide on candidates for Attorney General & 42nd District State Senator. More information is available at 832-5321.

Governor Cuomo announced a joint effort by state agencies to crack down on underage drinking on college campuses and in college towns as the fall semester begins. The State Liquor Authority and the State DMV, working with local law enforcement agencies, will conduct statewide sweeps of locations holding liquor licenses, including bars, restaurants, liquor stores and grocery stores, looking for fake IDs and illegal sales to minors. The combined enforcement effort will begin immediately, Persons under the age of 21 found to be using fake IDs or false documents with the intent of purchasing alcohol can be arrested and have their license revoked for a minimum of 90 days or up to one year. Businesses charged by the State Liquor Authority with underage sales face civil penalties of up to $10,000 per violation, and repeat offenders also face potential suspension or revocation of their liquor licenses.

Commerce Chenango and the Hamilton Business Alliance will celebrate the 50th anniversary of Rogers Environmental Education Center. Business and community leaders are invited to attend the “Business After Hours” event from 5:00 to 7:00 PM at Rogers Environmental Education Center on Route 80 in Sherburne.

The Otsego County Chamber of Commerce is accepting nominations currently through March 16th, for the Distinguished Business Award, for companies with 50 or more employees. The Late Eugene Bettiol, who passed away late last year, will be honored by the Chamber as the recipient this year’s Distinguished Citizen Award, which was named after him in recent years. The celebration will be held on Thursday, May 3rd, at 5:45 PM at The Foothills Performing Arts and Civic Center.

The United Way of Delaware & Otsego Counties announced that Kimberly Lorraine has been selected as the new Executive Director. Lorraine joined the untied way in December & has over 25 years experience in Non-Profit Management.

The Village of Sidney hosted an informal meeting with architects responsible for the design of the “Green Plain” project, at the Community Field behind the Sidney Memorial Park. Place Alliance Landscape Architect Andrew Bohne told WDCO news where they are at & what the timeline is;

(Andrew Bohne 2-28-18)

Bohne said that the money was only recently made available for this part of the Sidney flood mitigation program, & phase one is underway.

The number of craft beverage manufacturers has grown by 50% since the enactment of the Craft New York Act 3 years ago. In the three years since the Craft Act was enacted, 35 cideries, 60 wineries and farm wineries, 67 craft distillers and 178 craft breweries have opened for business in the state. Of those 340 new businesses, 260 are farm-based producers that use locally sourced ingredients in their production.

President Donald Trump is engaging in a Twitter feud with Democratic New York Senator Kirsten Gillibrand, after the Senator called on Trump to step down due to numerous accounts of sexual harassment by several women against Trump over the last 4 decades. The President called Gillibrand disloyal, for allegedly asking Trump for Campaign Contributions a few years ago before Trump's alliance with the Republican Party.

The Sidney Chamber of Commerce Holiday Business After Hours event is being held today. The Sidney Federal Credit Union will host the event at the headquarters on Union Street in Sidney from 5:00 to 7:00 PM.

The Delaware County Office for the Aging will hold a Holiday Open House Wednesday at their new location. The Open House will run from 12:00 Noon until 5:00 PM at the 97 Main street location in Delhi.

Delaware County Sheriff’s Deputies arrested 60 year old Louis Brigandi of Walton, for Felony Criminal Mischief, Aggravated Harassment and Trespassing. Brigandi allegedly entered on to a neighbor’s property in the Town of Hamden and intentionally damaged property, he was arraigned in the Town of Hamden Court and was released to re-appear at later date.

State Senator Jim Seward joined community, labor and business leaders to announce the launch of New Yorkers for Affordable Energy, which supports increasing access to natural gas for manufacturing facilities, power production, transportation, and other purposes to support New York's economy and quality of life:

(Seward 5-2-17)

Seward said that the Coalition partners includes the Otsego County IDA, Manufacturers Association of the Southern Tier, The Business Council of New York State, more information can be found at www.affordableenergyny.com.

The annual Big Wheels Golf Tournament, held at the Delhi College Golf Course, will take place on Friday, May 12th. The event serves as a primary fundraiser for programs and services which provide assistance to Delaware County senior citizens. More information or to request an entry form please contact the Delaware County Office for the Aging at 607-832-5750.

NYSEG reports power outages throughout the region from last night's powerful storm, with crews working to restore power as quickly as possible. A state of emergency was declared in Broome County by County Executive Jason Garnar; Broome County had over 13,000 customers without power this afternoon, Chenango County had over 5100 without power, Delaware County had over 1600 & Otsego County had over 2300 without power.

A free entrepreneur workshop, "Startup Tactics," will be held today from 6:30-8:00 pm in the Oxford Academy Primary School multipurpose room. Brad Treat of the Southern Tier Startup Alliance will lead the presentation. This event will also be live streamed free through ensemble.dcmoboces.com, more information, is available at 843-2025, ext. 3301.

Sales tax collections in Delaware County grew by about 7% in 2016, according to a report recently released by the Office of the New York State Comptroller. Delaware County Chamber of Commerce president Ray Pucci, claims that tourism is reason:

(Ray Pucci 2-7-17)

While statewide collections grew by 2.3%, Delaware County was among only six counties that saw increases of more than 4%, Regionally, the Southern Tier counties grew by less than 1%.

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.

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.

Another public meeting of the Oneonta Downtown Revitalization initiative will be held on Tuesday January 24th 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 on the 24th.

Delaware County Sheriff Deputies responded to a 2-car motor vehicle accident on State Highway 206 in the Town of Walton Monday. 48-year-old Tenzin Pelmo of Ithaca was rear-ended by a vehicle being driven by 37 year old Karyl Rose of Bainbridge. Both drivers were transported to Delaware Valley Hospital for treatment of their injuries. Rose was charged with Driving While Ability Impaired by Drugs and Aggravated Unlicensed Operation, unsafe tires and following too closely. Rose was arraigned & was released on her own recognize pending later court action in Town of Walton Court.

A presentation from Place Alliance was held at the Sidney Civic Center last night regarding the plans for the Sidney Green Streetscape project for Main Street. Ian Law is the Director of Urban Planning & Design for Place Alliance:

(Ian Law 1-18-17)

Plans call for new sidewalk configurations, new trees, lighting, and underground rainwater collection into reservoirs under the sidewalks. The plans are expected to go up for bidding next month, with construction getting underway this spring.

Governor Cuomo announced $20 million to support Binghamton University in its leading role as home to new NextFlex Flexible Hybrid Electronics Manufacturing Innovation Institute. The state’s $20 million commitment, from the Southern Tier’s $500 million Upstate Revitalization Initiative, will support the retrofitting of space in the former IBM facility in Endicott, it is expected to create up to 200 academic and private sector jobs, & up to 1,000 new jobs over the five years of the Flex Tech Alliance Program.

Delaware County Sheriff’s Deputies investigated a personal injury head-on collision Tuesday involving a tractor trailer and a car on State Highway 10 in the Town of Delhi, just south of Peakes Brook Road. The tractor trailer driver, 30 year old Michael Thompson of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania attempted to pull into a parking lot when he struck a car being driven by 56 year old Tammie Wycoff of Grand Gorge. Wycoff and her passenger were transported to O’Connor Hospital with minor injuries and were later released. Thompson was issued a traffic summons for moving from lane unsafely, he faces court action in Town of Delhi Court on April 25th.

SUNY Broome will host a Career Fair today, for those interested in pursuing a career with an area business. The event will be held at the college’s Ice center, from 10:00 until 2:00 PM.

Delaware County Sheriff's Deputies arrested 34 year old Shawn Stuber of Berne at the Orange County Jail, on an Arrest Warrant issued by the Delaware County Court for failure to appear to a court appearance for 3rd degree Assault. Stuber faced 2 additional, outstanding Bench Warrants issued by the Oneonta and Worcester Town Courts for failure to appear on charges of Making a Punishable False Written Statement and Endangering the Welfare of a Child. Stuber was arraigned in Delaware County Court and was ordered held without bail pending an April 5th court appearance. Upon his release from the Delaware County Correctional Facility, Stuber will be turned over to New York State Police to answer the pending Otsego County charges.

Delaware County Sheriff’s Deputies arrested 40-year-old Eric Hall of Andes for endangering the welfare of a child, following a report of a domestic dispute in the Town of Andes. Hall was later arraigned in Colchester Town Court & on a warrant issued by New York State Parole due to a violation of Parole provisions, and was remanded to the Delaware County Jail without bail.

Those who may have an idea for a business or a product, but don't know how to get started, are invited to "Pitch Night" at the Oxford high School Auditorium tonight at 7:00 PM. A Panel featuring members of Commerce Chenango & The southern Tier Startup Alliance will be on hand, according to organizer Steve Palmatier:

(Steve Palmatier 3-24-16)

Those wishing to present an idea should be prepared to give a 3 to 5 minute presentation; more information is available at 336-7727

Those who may have an idea for a business or a product, but don't know how to get started, are invited to "Pitch Night" at the Oxford high School Auditorium on March 24th at 7:00 PM. A Panel featuring members of Commerce Chenango & The southern Tier Startup Alliance will be on hand, according to organizer Steve Palmatier:

(Steve Palmatier 3-4-16)

Those wishing to present an idea should be prepared to give a 3 to 5 minute presentation; more information is available at 336-7727

Many Sidney Main Street businesses went "Blue" today, to increase awareness about colorectal cancer and encouraging them to get screened for this preventable disease. Stephanie Thorne of the Cancer Services Program of Delaware, Otsego and Schoharie Counties comments:

(Stephanie Thorne 3-4-16)

Thorne said that More than half of deaths from colon cancer can be prevented with regular screening and it’s still the #2 cause of death among New Yorkers. More information is available at 1-888-345-0225.

The Delaware county recycling facility has been in operation fro a full year, accepting a lot more plastic & other items for recycling, according to Delaware County Solid waste Coordinator director Sue McIntyre:

(Sue McIntyre 11-12-15)

McIntyre said that the revenue generated from the #3 to 7 Plastics is marginal, but she said that there is a market for all of the items coming in to the recycling facility, and an added bonus of NOT having those items winding up in the landfill or the comporting facility.

The first Baptist Church in Sidney will hold their services this Sunday at the Circle Drive Alliance church from 2:00 to 3:30 PM, due to a heating problem. After the church services, members of the church will return to the Baptist Church for packing the "Operation Child" boxes as originally scheduled.

New York outlawed daily fantasy sports websites and FanDuel CEO Nigel Eccles said that they're hoping to work around the decision by New York's Attorney General Eric Schneiderman, that declared daily fantasy sports sites such as FanDuel and DraftKings are illegal gambling operations. Eccles said that their attorney claims that there is a 5-day period allotted in the cease-and-desist letter in which they'll be working to figure out their options. About 10% of the 2 companies business has been from New York.

The American Red Cross encourages eligible donors to give blood today. 2 blood drives will be held in Delaware County today, one in Sidney from 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM at the Sidney Federal Credit Union, at 42 Union Street & in Delhi from 11:00 AM to 5:00 PM at the State University Farrell Student & Community Center, at 2 Main Street. Those looking to donate blood can download the American Red Cross Blood Donor App, visit redcrossblood.org or call 1-800-RED CROSS to make an appointment. All blood types are needed.