WCDO Radio News

P.M. NEWS THURSDAY 7-16-26
State DEC & State Department of Health issued an updated Air Quality Health Advisory for fine particulate matter for Today, due to the statewide impact of smoke from wildfires in Canada. New Yorkers may see visible smoke and hazy skies across the state and spikes in smoke-related pollution. The updated advisory for the Eastern Lake Ontario, Central New York and Western New York regions are forecast to reach Very Unhealthy status, through midnight tonight. More information regarding the Canadian wildfire smoke can be found at airnow.gov.

The Final Report from the National Transportation Safety Board has been released regarding a 2024 plane crash in Delaware County. The report said that the accident was likely due to the pilot; 76 year old Roger Beggs who had spatial disorientation while flying in poor weather conditions, the single-engine, Piper Malibu crashed on June 30, 2024, near Trout Creek, 12 minutes after taking off from the Albert S. Nader Regional Airport in Oneonta, on its way to Yeager Airport in Charleston, West Virginia. State Police identified the victims of the crash as Roger Beggs, his daughter Laura VanEpps, and her husband, Ryan VanEpps, and their children James and Harrison VanEpps.

The Sidney Alumni Weekend will be held from Friday through Sunday with a variety of events, according to Alumni President Bryan Innes:

(Bryan Innes 7-16-26)

The full schedule of events can be found at sidneyalumni.org.

A.M. NEWS THURSDAY 7-16-26
Governor Hochul announced that the AIR QUALITY ADVISORY has been expanded to the entire State, as the Smoke From Canadian Wildfires and High Temperatures are Creating Unhealthy Air Conditions Across the State. New Yorkers Should Avoid Spending Time Outdoors if Possible; Sensitive Groups Should Take Particular Caution, More Than 100,000 N95-Style Masks are Available to Counties Statewide. New Yorkers Can Sign Up for Weather and Emergency Alerts by Texting 333111. New Yorkers should also continue to monitor the Air Quality Index at airnow.gov.

A Delaware County Grand Jury returned a 9-count indictment against 24 year old Donovan Connelly of Walton, for 6 counts of Sexual Abuse, for the alleged sexual abuse of a 17 year female co-worker while working in a position of authority. Other counts charge Connelly with Criminal Obstruction of Breathing, 2 counts of Stalking. Connelly was issued a criminal order of protection, which he violated, which led to a charge of Criminal Contempt. The investigation is continuing, anyone with additional information should contact the Walton Police Department at 607-865-5400.

State Comptroller Tom DiNapoli has completed a study of the $277 billion Enacted Budget for the current State Fiscal Year, which has an increase of 7% from the previous State Budget. DiNapoli's report stated the largest increases in spending have been in Medicaid and School Aid, other potential issues are the the retrenchment of federal support; persistent inflation and increasing local government fiscal needs, also the state took action to preserve healthcare coverage for over a million New Yorkers, but that still resulted in 450,000 New Yorkers losing eligibility. The state has significantly increased its reserve levels at approximately $15 billion.

The Delaware County Sheriff’s Office is seeking the public’s assistance in locating 38 year old Jennifer Hewitt, who is wanted on a Bench Warrant issued by the Town of Davenport Court, Hewitt was indicted by a Delaware County Grand Jury on charges of 3rd-degree Grand Larceny recently, following an investigation into a fraud complaint where Hewitt unlawfully issued bad checks totaling more than $14,000 and withdrew the funds without having sufficient balances in her accounts. Anyone with information pertaining to Hewitt's location should call the Delaware County Sheriff’s Office at (607)832-5555 or “Submit a Tip” at their Sheriff’s APP.

A.M. NEWS WEDNESDAY 7-15-26
The State DEC and State Department of Health are issuing an Air Quality Health Advisory for fine particulate for today, for the region due to the impact of smoke from wildfires in Canada. In addition, there is the potential for visible smoke and hazy skies across the state and New Yorkers may see temporary spikes in smoke-related pollution. The advisory will be in effect until 11:59 pm. More information is available at airnow.gov

P.M. NEWS WEDNESDAY 7-8-26

Otsego County Health Department announced that a Raccoon has tested positive for rabies. The animal was found in Westford, all of the animals that were exposed to the Raccoon are being treated, Officials urge residents to get all pets & farm animals vaccinated, those that are not vaccinated & are exposed will be euthanized. More information is available at 607-547-4230, or at the Health Department web page at otsegocountyny.gov.

A Program entitled “Healthcare in Delaware County” will be held today at the Sidney Memorial Public Library, the session will be held from 6:00 to 7:30 PM.

P.M. NEWS TUESDAY 6-30-26

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

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

Delaware County Public Health will hold their next free rabies clinic for dogs, cats and ferrets in Roxbury today from 4:00 to 6:00 PM at the Highway Garage on State Highway 30. Pre-registration is suggested at health.ny.gov/go2clinic, more information about rabies is available at 607-832-5200.

State Attorney General Letitia James today released guidance to help New Yorkers understand their health insurance options and avoid scams as major changes to New York's Essential Plan take effect. Beginning July 1, 2026, New Yorkers enrolled in the Essential Plan with household incomes over 200 percent of the federal poverty level will no longer be eligible for that coverage, which translates to approximately 450,000 New Yorkers who are set to lose Essential Plan coverage. New Yorkers who enrolled in health insurance through New York State of Health can get free help renewing or changing coverage from New York State of Health-certified enrollment assistors by visiting nystateofhealth.ny.gov or calling 1-855-355-5777. Anyone who believes they have been misled, scammed, or improperly enrolled in a health insurance plan is encouraged to contact OAG's Health Care Helpline for assistance.

Delaware Valley Humane Society reported that Waste Recovery Enterprises donated $2689.79 from the latest Heavy Metal Haul Out campaign. The Next drive will be in September, where people can leave scrap metal at a bin across from WRE on Valley View Road.

The Broome County Sheriff's Office updated the public on the recent Salmonella outbreak at the jail, with 12 hospitalized over hundreds sickened, Broome County Health Department Director Olivia Catalano spoke at this afternoon's press conference:

(Olivia Catalano 6-18-26)

Broome County Executive Jason Garnar stated that while many have called for the quick dismissal of the Food Care Provider, that process would take months to dismiss and appoint a new provider, he referenced a similar situation several years ago with a food provider at an area nursing home:

(Jason Garnar 6-18-26)

There are no current hospitalizations among the inmates, Health care workers are remaining on site to continue to monitor the situation to insure that another outbreak does not occur.

41 year old Alex Scrivani of Claryville pleaded guilty to Criminal Mischief in Delaware County Court On May 11, a deputy was flagged down by multiple individuals reporting a male that was pulling on door handles of multiple residences and going into a local business, the Deputy located Scrivani, who was uncooperative, it was determined that Scrivani went into a building and damaged a screen door, he was remanded to the Delaware County Correctional Facility pending sentencing on June 30th.

State DEC announced several changes to deer hunting regulations to increase harvest of female deer and improve DEC’s ability to manage abundant deer populations. Under the new system, all hunters will receive a first Antlered Deer Tag which can be used during any season, except the September antlerless season. Hunters who harvest and report an antlerless deer, will be eligible to receive a second Antlered Deer Tag, More information is available at dec.ny.gov/things-to-do/hunting.

The Delaware County Sheriff’s Office is seeking the public’s assistance in locating 40 year old Barbara Brooke Walley, who is wanted on a Bench Warrant issued by Delaware County Court. Walley is a 5'2" tall white female with brown hair and green eyes, Anyone with information pertaining to the whereabouts of this person, please contact the Delaware County Sheriff’s Office at (607)832-5555 or “Submit a Tip” via our Sheriff’s APP.

A.M. NEWS WEDNESDAY 6-17-26

SFCU has recently presented a $20,000 donation to the United Way Mid Rural NY, supporting efforts to improve access to dental care for children across Chenango, Delaware, Otsego, and Madison counties. SFCU President & CEO JIm Reynolds comments;

(Jim Reynolds 6-17-26)

Reynolds said that access to dental care remains a significant challenge in many rural communities, where provider shortages and transportation barriers exist, More information about the SFCU 1 Million Reasons initiative is available at sfcuonline.org/1millionreasons.

New York State Department of Agriculture & Markets has put new rules in place for bringing domestic animals into the State to stop the spread of the New World Screwworm after cases were found in Texas and New Mexico. The State is restricting the movement of livestock and pets from areas affected or suspected to be affected by the parasite, so far there have been no cases detected in New York. The new order requires extra veterinary testing, proof of good health, and preventative treatment for animals coming from impacted areas.

The Town Of Oneonta announced that the town pool should be opening for the season later this month, following inspections by the County Health Department. Renovations to the 50 year old pool have been ongoing since last year, the pool is free the town will offer free swim lessons to town residents.

A.M. NEWS MONDAY 6-15-26

Chenango County Sheriff’s Office arrested 40 year old Amy Gonzalez of the town of German for Harassment, Resisting Arrest & Obstructions of Governmental Administration. Deputies responded to an address in the Town of German for a domestic dispute, it was found that Gonzalez subjected the victim to unwanted physical contact. While deputies were taking Gonzalez into custody she resisted arrest. Gonzalez was taken into custody and transported back to the Chenango County Sheriff’s Office, she became uncooperative again. Gonzalez was released on appearance tickets to appear in the Town of German Court at a later date.

The Sidney Police Department reports that on Saturday officers became aware of multiple incidents of graffiti vandalism affecting both Village property and private property within the Village of Sidney. The graffiti consisted of derogatory phrases directed at President Donald Trump and U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement. Officers apprehended 3 individuals, arrested were 19 year old Mara Van Kingsley of Sidney, 21 year old Harley Riglioni of Unadilla, & 20 year old Saaniah Small of Afton, for 1 count each of Criminal Mischief, Making Graffiti, Conspiracy & Possession of Graffiti Instruments, All 3 defendants were processed by the Sidney Police Department and transported to the Delaware County Court for arraignment, the investigation remains ongoing, and additional charges may be filed as further information becomes available.

44 year old Richard Robinson of Holland Patent pleaded guilty to Attempted Promoting Prison Contraband in Delaware County Court Tuesday. Robinson was an inmate at the Delaware County Correctional Facility on April 17th, he had 2 small plastic bags with a white powdery residue in a brown paper bag, the substance tested positive for methamphetamine. The case was presented to the Delaware County Grand Jury, Robinson was indicted for Promoting Prison Contraband & Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance, sentencing will be on August 25th, Robinson is expected to be sentenced to 1.5 to 3 years in jail.

Walton Police arrested former Walton Teacher Eric Scofield who allegedly violated an Order of Protection by being on school property. Scofield was located on the property of the Walton High School, Scofield was charged with 4 counts of Criminal Contempt, he was arraigned & was being held at the Delaware County Correctional Facility on $50,000 cash bail or $100,000 bond. Scofield was ordered to stay away from the district after an investigation for engaging in improper communications with students.

Delaware County Public Health recommends that pet owners take advantage free rabies vaccinations clinics for dogs, cats and ferrets, the next one will be today from 4:00 to 6:00 PM at the Margaretville Fire Hall, Pre-registration is suggested at health.ny.gov/go2clinic.

P.M. NEWS WEDNESDAY 6-10-26

The Chenango County Health Department announced that the BOIL WATER ORDER has been Lifted for the Village of Bainbridge Water System & residents may resume normal use of the water. Emergency water quality monitoring has indicated that the water system again meets State Drinking Water Standards. Some residents may experience discolored water or a change in taste or odor of the water; if this occurs flush all water lines for 15-20 minutes or until the water runs clear. More information is available by calling the Bainbridge Village Office 607-967-7373 or the Chenango County Health Department at 607-337-1673.

Governor Kathy Hochul today announced that nearly $140 million in federal funding is available to support counter-terrorism and emergency preparedness efforts across the state. The funding is provided by FEMA to support local security preparedness efforts, Locally Otsego & Chenango Counties receive over $58,000, Delaware County over $53,000.

P.M. NEWS MONDAY 6-8-26

Delaware County District Attorney Shawn Smith & Delaware County Sheriff DuMond will hold a press conference Tuesday at 10:30 to announce the conviction of Brent Trimbell of Hobart, who was the high school coach that was alleged to have sexually abused two female victims while serving in his position and previously raping a third victim. Trimbell had also bee arrested on Federal charges in connection with this investigation.

Delaware County Sheriff's Office arrested 48- year-old Noel Wildey of Walton on an arrest warrant issued by the Masonville Town Court. On October 16th, 2024, The Sheriff's Office - Civil Division conducted an eviction in Masonville, During the eviction, Wildey refused to identify himself & gave Officers several false names. Wildey was charged with False Personation, Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance and Obstruction of Governmental Administration. Wildey was processed and released on appearance tickets to reappear at the Masonville Town Court at a later date to answer the aforesaid charges. Wildey later failed to show up as directed, resulting in an arrest warrant being issued by the Masonville Town Court on February 4th, 2025. On June 2nd, 2026, Wildey turned himself into the Delaware County Sheriff’s Office where he was subsequently arraigned and was released on his own recognizance to reappear in the Masonville Town Court at a later date.

The Village of Bainbridge has issued a Boil Water Alert, following a test requiring to issue the alert, Bainbridge Mayor Phil Wade explains:

(Phil Wade 6-8-26)

Bainbridge residents with Questions can call 967-7373 or the Chenango County Health Department at 607-337-1673.

40 year old Michael Salamey of Frankfort appeared in Delaware County Court and was sentenced to 2 to 6 years in state prison after he pleaded guilty to 3rd Degree Grand Larceny. Salamey entered into a contract to improve property in the Town of Roxbury, the owner paid him over $360,000 to perform a number of projects, that were not fully completed. Salamey failed to return calls from the owner, he was indicted by the Delaware County Grand Jury for 2 counts of degree Grand Larceny in 2023, after pleading guilty, Salamey remained at large pending sentencing, State Police located Salamey & arrested him on a warrant, and was sentenced last month.

A.M. NEWS Friday 6-5-26

Broome County Sheriff’s Office and the Broome County Health Department provided the public with the latest update on the outbreak of Salmonella that hit the Broome County Correctional Facility. After 11 days, operations at Broome County Correctional Facility have largely returned to normal, Over 120 IV hydration treatments were conducted, 10 individuals were hospitalized, 8 have returned from the hospital, with 2 still receiving treatment. Broome County Health Department showed a positive result for Salmonella in sample of a chicken salad meal served on May 24th, no other meals have tested positive. The Health Department identified multiple violations related to food preparation and storage that could have led to the outbreak. Several of the violations identified are repeat violations that have previously been cited to the food vendor, particularly those involving the cooling of food, The Health Department found no issues with water quality at the Correctional Facility.

Delaware County sheriff's Office arrested 33 year old Logan Coss of Grand Gorge for Aggravated Driving While Intoxicated, Driving While Intoxicated and Obstructing Firefighter Operations. On May 25th, Deputies responded to assist the Grand Gorge Fire Department and Town of Roxbury Constable at the scene of a vehicle fire, Coss is accused of attempting to obstruct fire fighters and police who were on scene. Coss was released on appearance tickets for Town of Roxbury Court at a later date.

A live music event will be held Saturday June 6th at the Community Cultural Center in Sidney, Board Member Doug Barnard & Director Amy Williams visited WCDO recently to talk about the show:

(Doug Barnard Amy Williams 6-5-26)

More information is available at the Community Cultural Center Facebook page.

The Otsego County Sheriff's Office & the Department of Health are holding 2 Car Seat safety checks Saturday. The 1st one will be from 10:00AM to 12:00 Noon at the Boys & Girls Club on River Street in Oneonta, The 2nd will be from 1:00 to 3:00 PM at the Home Depot on State Route 28, for more information, call 607-547-4230.

P.M. NEWS FRIDAY 6-5-26

Delaware County Sheriff's Office arrested 46 year old Anthony Alessi of Walton for Driving While Ability Impaired by Drugs, Criminal possession of a controlled substance, following a traffic stop at a check point in Town of Colchester,  Alessi is accused of being impaired & was found to possess cocaine, he was processed and was released on appearance tickets for Town of Colchester Court at a later date.

Clear Path for Veterans IS A NON PROFIT ORGANIZATION helping out veterans with a variety of programs, Sean Sejersen is a Peer Mentor with Clear Path For Veterans, and a veteran himself, he told WCDO News about the program:

(Sean Sejerson 6-5-26)

A benefit will be held at Awestruck Ciders in Sidney Sunday from 12:00 to 5:00 PM, Sejersen will be there explaining their services & accepting donations, a portion of the proceeds from Awestruck will also be donated.

Delaware County has continued to transition operations of the senior meals program after Delaware Opportunities abruptly ceased operating on May 7th. Delaware County Office for the Aging has supported Senior meals both at congregate meal sites and through home meal deliveries. Congregate meal sites are now fully staffed and operational in Delhi, Hancock, Walton & Grand Gorge, the Margaretville senior meals dining center is open and located back in the Margaretville Methodist Church. The Sidney senior dining center has been temporarily relocated to the Sidney Community Cultural Center at 1 Bridge Street in Sidney, today that site will be operational to serve meals on site and prepare meals for home delivery. The County continues to work with the owners of the Sidney Senior Housing site to permanently relocate senior meals back to the senior nutrition site at 21 Liberty Street Sidney. Those interested in county employment, contact the Delaware County personnel office to inquire about these positions.

Governor Hochul's Office announced a 5 year deal has been reached on a contract for the CIVIL SERVICE EMPLOYEE ASSOCIATION, with more than 55,000 New York State Employees. The Contract Includes Yearly Salary Increases, Increases in Location Pay and Changes in Health Benefits, the Contract is Subject to Union Membership Ratification

Delaware County Public Health recommends that pet owners take advantage of any of the free rabies clinics for dogs, cats and ferrets in Delaware County. Pre-registration is suggested for all clinics at health.ny.gov/go2clinic. The next clinic will be today in Franklin from 5:30PM-7:30PM at the Franklin Fire Hall, 351 Main Street.

P.M. NEWS WEDNESDAY 5-27-26

The Broome County Sheriff’s Office and the Broome County Health Department are taking action to treat and prevent the spread of a stomach bug-like illness that health experts believe to be norovirus at the Broome County Correctional Facility. On Monday, several incarcerated individuals reported symptoms of nausea, vomiting, diarrhea and headaches to medical staff at Correctional Facility. Over the next 24 hours, over 140 incarcerated individuals in multiple housing units were seen by medical staff for similar symptoms. The Norovirus is a highly contagious stomach illness effecting 19 to 21 million people in the United States each year and the leading cause of acute gastroenteritis in the country, The Correctional Facility is also taking additional precautions to limit exposure for staff and other incarcerated individuals within the facility, while performing deep and steady cleaning on any exposed surfaces or areas within the facility.

State Attorney General Letitia James and DEC Commissioner Amanda Lefton today awarded more than $1.34 million in grants to support farmers in Delaware and Sullivan Counties. The Agricultural Environmental Innovation Grant Program is funded by the Attorney General's & the DEC's 2023 settlement with FrieslandCampina, for repeated violations of environmental law at its Delhi facility. The grant program will reinvest the settlement funds by providing 25 farms with access to new technologies and practices.

A raccoon tested positive for rabies in the town of Davenport, it's the 2nd confirmed positive case of rabies in Delaware County this year. 1 dog & 3 people were exposed to the rabid raccoon, the raccoon was sent for testing to the State Department of Health Wadsworth Laboratory. The exposed dog received a booster, the 3 people exposed have begun Rabies Post-Exposure Prophylaxis. Public Health recommends that pet owners take advantage of any of the free rabies clinics for dogs, cats and ferrets in Delaware County. Pre-registration is suggested at health.ny.gov/go2clinic, more information is available at 607-832-5200 or delawarecountypublichealth.com

P.M. NEWS FRIDAY 5-15-26

Delaware County Sheriff’s Deputies were notified of a scam where callers are contacting residents and reporting that they are from the New York State Electric & Gas, The scammers state that there is an overdue bill and that if the bill is not immediately paid, the resident's electricity will be shut off. The Sheriff;s Office reported that people should never give personal financial information to cold callers, they should hang up, and contact local law enforcement if they feel that they were scammed.

The Chenango County Department of Public Health will be visiting area towns through June 30th, to educate the community on the importance of Lead and Lead Poisoning, with their annual "LEAD WALK" that has continued since 2012. Chenango County Health Department Senior Health Educator Chris Arnold explains:

(Chris Arnold 5-15-26)

Chenango County Residents should look for blue doorknob hangers on your front door to access this educational information about lead poisoning. More information, contact the Chenango County Health Department at (607) 337-1660.

Delaware County Public Health is holding free Climate & Health Workshops for Seniors, with the next one coming up today in Hancock, spokesperson Isabella Ziolkowski explains:

(Isabella Ziolkowski 5-4-26)

The events will be held during the senior meals from 11:30 to 12:30 at each location, and each participant will receive a free starter Emergency kit.

Delaware County Public Health will have a Free Rabies Vaccination Clinic For dogs, cats, and ferrets today from 5:30PM to 7:30PM, at Hancock Town Hall, 661 West Main Street. For More Information, call Delaware County Public Health at (607) 832-5200.

Delaware County Office for the Aging & Pizzo's Restaurant of Delhi are developing menus for the next 2 weeks to serve Delaware County Senior Meals. Meal Times will be at 11:30 AM, Sidney Seniors meals will be served at the Community Cultural Center , reservations are requested at 607-643-8390.

An American Red Cross Blood Drive is being held in Delhi today from 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM at the Delaware County Sheriff's Office. Make appointments at redcrossblood.org, by calling 1-800-REDCROSS or with the Blood Donor App.

The collaboration between the Tri County Senior Center & The Delaware Valley Humane Society has resulted in a cookbook for sale, to raise money for the Shelter, Carol Allen of Tri County Senior Center & Erin Insinga of the Humane Society told WCDO News how the plan started:

(Carol Allen Erin Insinga 5-6-26)

The Cookbook was turned into a book by USA Custom Pad of Sidney & is available at the Senior Center and the Delaware Valley Humane Society.

The Intensive Crisis Stabilization Center is now open and it will be one of only 12 such centers in New York State, they provide on-site care for people experiencing mental health or substance use crises, offering stabilization services for up to 24 hours. The center is for residents in the Mohawk Valley area counties, including Otsego County.

Delaware County Public Health is holding free Climate & Health Workshops for Seniors, with the next one coming up this month in Hancock, spokesperson Isabella Ziolkowski explains:

(Isabella Ziollkowski 5-4-26)

The events will be held during the senior meals from 11:30 to 12:30 at each location, and each participant will receive a free starter Emergency kit.

A free Rabies vaccination clinic will be held today at the Sidney Fire Hall. the clinic will run from 5:30 to 7:30 PM, pre-registration is requested at health.ny.gov/go2clinic.

Governor Hochul announced action to protect survivors of domestic violence, by selecting 5 counties including Delaware county to participate in a 2-year Coordinated Community Response Pilot Program. The effort will be led by the State Office for the Prevention of Domestic Violence, the initiative aims to help survivors access safety and support faster while ensuring accountability for offenders.

A.M. NEWS Friday 5-1-26

UHS Chenango Memorial Hospital in Norwich will hold their 7th "Community Baby Shower" for expectant parents & families with newborns, on Saturday, spokesperson Melissa Stagnaro explains:

(Melissa Stagnaro 5-1-26)

The Community Baby Shower will run from Saturday, from 10:00 AM to 1:00 PM at UHS Chenango Memorial Hospital, it is free and available for pregnant individuals, new parents, and families with babies up to 12 months old.

Year 3 of the Explore Chenango Outdoor Challenge has been announced by the Chenango County Department of Public Health and the Chenango County Planning Department. Kickoff day for the challenge will be Friday, interested participants can pick up a Trail map brochure in the lobby of the Chenango County office building & they can also complete it online at Chenangocountyny.gov/206/Public-Health. To complete the Challenge, Walk, Hike, Bike or Paddle 7 of the 14 locations on the trail map, Submit your completed log to Chenango County Public Health by September 4. For more information, visit alltrails.com or cnyhiking.com; or call Chenango County Planning and Development Department at 607-337-1640 or the Chenango County Health Department at 607-337-1660.

Next to New in Sidney will open at their brand new location in Sidney today, volunteers Maria Sherwood & Julie Van Buren told WCDO News where the new location is :

(Maria Sherwood Julie Van Buren 5-1-26)

More information is available at the Next to New Facebook page.

A.M. NEWS THURSDAY 4-30-26

Delaware County Sheriff’s Deputies were dispatched to a complaint for a violation of a Delaware County Family Court Order of Protection. Deputies arrested 39-year-old Jonathan Gutliph of Hamden, he had violated the Order shortly after being served, he was charged with Criminal Contempt & was processed at the Delaware County Sheriff’s Office and turned over to the Correctional Facility where he was arraigned and held on bail.

Governor Hochuls's Office announced that $237.7 Million Dollars was returned to New Yorkers in 2025. The Department of Financial Services Returned $134 million to Consumers and Health Care Providers, the Public Service Commission Helped Over 75,000 New Yorkers with Complaints in 2025, Collecting Nearly $66 Million for Consumers, the Department of Labor Recovered More Than $35 Million in Wage Theft and Collected $2.2 Million in Penalties. Also, the Division of Consumer Protection Helped Over 27,000 New Yorkers, collecting Nearly $2.7 Million for Consumers, New Yorkers Can File a Complaint at dfs.ny.gov/complaint.

The Delaware County Sheriff Craig DuMond reported to the Board of Supervisors meeting this week, that the road patrol division responded to 18,518 total calls for service in 2025, arrests were up 6.2% last year from 2024, traffic tickets increased by 5.4% and motor vehicle accidents saw an increase of 37.66%. The office's Criminal Investigations Division investigated 740 cases last year, including 69 where warrants were requested, making 64 arrests. The corrections division saw a 28% reduction in the number of inmates processed into the jail in 2025.

A.M. NEWS Thursday 4-23-26

State Police arrested 23 year old Bradley Scymanski of Newark Valley after a road rage incident that resulted in shots fired. Scymanski was charged with Attempted Assault, Criminal Possession of a Weapon, Criminal Use of a Firearm & Reckless Endangerment, An investigation determined that on Wednesday afternoon, a road rage incident between 2 vehicles occurred on East Main Street in the town of Union, when Scymanski allegedly discharged a firearm at the other vehicle, No injuries were reported. Scymanski was located and taken into custody without incident, he was processed & then turned over to the Broome County Jail for Centralized Arraignment, where he was remanded without bail.

P.M. NEWS WEDNESDAY 4-22-26

79 year old Stanley Suchy of Stamford, was sentenced to 10 years of incarceration and 20 years of post-release supervision in Delaware County Court Tuesday. Suchy had pleaded guilty to Course of Sexual Conduct Against a Child, He was remanded to the Delaware County Correctional Facility to begin his sentence.

Delaware County Public Health is hosting free Climate and Health Workshops at the Delaware County Senior Dining Centers. Participants will learn how changes to the climate can impact their health and ways to prepare for emergencies. These workshops are free and open to residents 60 years and older. Each workshop will take place during the senior dining program lunch hour from 11:30 AM – 12:30 PM, each participant will receive a starter emergency preparedness kit. Workshops will be held today at Grand Gorge Civic Center, Thursday at the Sidney Civic Center Room, Friday in Walton at the St. John’s Roman Catholic Church, others are planned in May & July.

For the entire month of March The Delaware Valley Humane Society will be having a Can & Bottle drive where people are encouraged to drop off bags of redeemable cans & bottle at the shelter, pick ups can be arranged for those within 8 miles of our shelter with 10 or more bags to pick up, call the shelter to make arrangements at (607) 563-7780. The shelter will also accept dry dog food, canned dog and cat food, cleaning supplies, such as Fabulosa and bleach, and Clorox wipes.

Delaware County Public Health recommends that pet owners take advantage of any of the free remaining rabies clinics for dogs, cats and ferrets in Delaware County. Pre-registration is suggested for all clinics, the next one will be today from 5PM-6:30PM, at the Colchester Highway Garage on River Road, Downsville, pre-register at health.ny.gov/go2clinic.

P.M. NEWS MONDAY 3-16-26

A Delaware County Grand Jury returned a 4 Count Indictment against 36 year old William Weil of Bainbridge last week. Weil was indicted for Aggravated DWI, Felony DWI & Endangering the welfare of a child, for allegedly driving intoxicated with a child in his vehicle in Delhi on January 22nd, the DWI is a felony as Weil was convicted of DWI within the last 10 years. Weil faces action on the indictments shortly.

Thousands of unlawful vape and marijuana products were seized from a Conklin gas station as part of a compliance check by the Broome County Health Department. On March 9, members of the Sheriff’s Office and the Broome County Special Investigations Unit Task Force assisted the Broome County Health Department with a flavored nicotine vape compliance check at the “One Dream” Sunoco gas station located at 976 Conklin Rd in the Town of Conklin, they seized approximately 4,000 unlawful flavored nicotine vapes along with THC products, The business does not possess a valid license to dispense THC products. The unlawful flavored vapes are not taxed. In 2019, New York raised the legal age to purchase tobacco and vape products to 21, and in 2020 the state banned the sale of flavored vaping products, other than tobacco flavor. The compliance check was generated via a tip from the Susquehanna Valley Central School District.

P.M. NEWS MONDAY 3-9-26

Delaware County Public Health reported that a raccoon tested positive for rabies in the town of Colchester, it's the 1st positive case of rabies in Delaware County in 2026. The rabid raccoon exposed 2 dogs, There were no human exposures. Both dogs are up to date on their rabies vaccinations and received a booster. To report a suspected rabid animal call Delaware County Public Health Services at 607-832-5200, for more information visit delawarecountypublichealth.com

Helios Care has been awarded a grant of $195,000, from the Mother Cabrini Health Foundation to support its Choices program, for those in Delaware, Otsego, and Schoharie counties. Through the Mother Cabrini Health Foundation, Helios Care can serve certain patients at no cost to them and their families. This funding advances Helios Care’s mission of providing compassion, choices, and dignity for all patients and their families. For questions about palliative care or other Helios Care services, please call (607)432-5525

Mirabito Cares announce the launch of its March 2026 Round Up at the Register campaign, a month-long community giving initiative dedicated to improving access to pediatric healthcare for children and families across Mirabito’s service areas. From March 2 through March 31, customers at all 112 Mirabito Convenience Store locations will be invited to round up their in-store purchases to the nearest dollar. Proceeds from the campaign will benefit Friends of Bassett supporting School-Based Health Program and the Upstate Foundation supporting vital patient care, education and research at Upstate Golisano Children’s Hospital.

The Future for Oneonta Foundation announced the appointment of Gary Herzig as the new Chair of the Board of Directors, along with the addition of Kim Muller and John Nader to the Board. Herzig, Muller & Nader are all former Mayors of the City of Oneonta, the Future for Oneonta Foundation remains committed to investing in programs and projects that create lasting impact. For more information, visit www.futureforoneonta.org

A.M. NEWS THURSDAY 2-26-26

Vestal Police responded Wednesday to a report of an individual experiencing a mental health crisis in the area of 581 Sequoia Lane, officers encountered an individual who was in possession of a knife and threatening self-harm. During the course of the interaction, officers made numerous requests for the individual to drop the knife. The individual ignored commands and threw a television at officers & raised the knife and advanced toward an officer. Despite the continued de-escalation efforts, shots were fired and the individual was struck. The individual was transported to Wilson Medical Center. No officers were injured during the incident. State Police will conduct an independent investigation into the circumstance surrounding the shooting. State Police announced that the individual was identified as 38 year old Eslam Ahmed Hegazy of Vestal, he has succumbed to his injuries.

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

(Danielle Ryan 2-28-26)

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

A.M. NEWS TUESDAY 2-24-26

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

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

(Kimberly Lorraine 2-23-26)

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

The Delaware County Firefighters' Association announced that they have been alerted of a scam phone call, where people claim to be seeking donations on their behalf. The Association does not solicit by phone, their annual fund drive letter was mailed in November, it is the only solicitation they make each year, to support the ongoing training and recruitment here in Delaware County. if you get such a phone call, hang up & do not give any personal financial information.