WCDO Radio News

Chenango County Public Health and the State Department of Health have confirmed a case of measles in a Chenango County resident. The unvaccinated individual is recovering at home, the risk to the general public is considered low. Public health staff are working to identify and notify anyone who may have had close contact with the individual during the infectious period. Any individuals identified as having a potential exposure will be contacted directly with guidance and recommendations. At this time, there is no indication of ongoing community transmission. For more information about measles, visit: cdc.gov/measles or health.ny.gov.

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 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.

The U.S. Department of Transportation's Federal Aviation Administration announced an Airport Improvement Grant for the Eaton Airport in Norwich. The grant was for just over $1 Million Dollars and will be used to re-seal & resurface the runway, the grant money will fund about 95% of the project.

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.

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

The City of Oneonta announced that a contractor working for Firstlight Fiber will be installing new underground fiber cable on Ford Avenue between the intersection of Main St. and the Community Bank driveway entrance, starting at 7:00 AM until the Work is completed. The road will be closed to one lane of traffic with flaggers and temporary no parking will be implemented for both sides of the roadway throughout construction. For more information, please contact the Department of Public Works at 432-2100 or dpsinfo@oneonta.ny.us

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.

The Otego Fire department is hosting a 3 day Otsego County Fire Fighters Convention Thursday through Saturday, G.X. Cramatte is one of the organizer, he told WCDO News that there is something for everyone:

(G.X. Cramatte 7-8-26)

The activities will be held at the American Legion Field on Willow Street in Otego, starting at 12:00 Noon each day.

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.

Norwich Police Department executed a search warrant at 41 Cortland Street following an investigation into the sale and distribution of illegal narcotics. 39 year old Shawn Utter of Norwich, & 24 year old Brittany Cox were charged with several Counts of Criminal Sale of a Controlled Substance, Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance, Criminal Possession of a Weapon, Criminal Nuisance & Conspiracy, Officers seized cash from suspected drug sales, drug measuring equipment, methamphetamine, fentanyl, cocaine, marijuana, various pills, & weapons, The Village of Sidney Police Department assisted on scene with their drug detecting K9 unit, Utter was remanded to the Chenango County Correctional Facility without bail pending further proceedings. Cox was processed and arraigned in Norwich City Court, where she was remanded to the Chenango County Correctional Facility on $10,000 cash bail.

The FBI & the Johnson City Police Department arrested 69 year old Robert Randesi of Johnson City on federal drug & weapons charges after the execution of search warrant at a warehouse style building in Johnson City. Officers located over 20 pounds of suspected methamphetamine, quantities of marijuana, approximately $24,000 in cash, several firearms including AR-15 style rifles, ghost guns, firearm parts and ammunition, plus machinist tools and metal fabricating equipment consistent with tools used to construct or mill firearms & their parts. Randesi is currently in the Broome County Jail, He faces court action for both state and federal charges.

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.

P.M. NEWS MONDAY 6-22-25

Broome County 911 Center received multiple reports of a fire at the Knights Inn, at 2603 East Main Street in Endwell, at about 6:00 AM today, a total of 6 fatalities have been confirmed. Additional information, including the identities of the victims, will be released at a later time, 2 others were taken to Wilson Medical Center. over 70 residents have been displaced and are being assisted by the Red Cross. A temporary shelter has been set up at the Vestal United Methodist Church. Endwell Fire Department arrived to find heavy black smoke in the front of the building and flames showing from the rear of the building. The fire spread rapidly, and multiple Fire Departments, ambulance crews and police agencies arrived on scene to assist. The New York State Office of Fire, the Broome County Office of Emergency Services, Broome County Mobile Crisis Response Team is on scene, the cause of the fire is under investigation.

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.

Sidney Fire Department was dispatched to a structure fire with smoke and flames visible Friday night at about 7:00 PM at 826 Circle Drive, heavy smoke was showing from the ridge of the roof. Sidney firefighters launched an aggressive interior and exterior attack and contained the fire to one apartment. Assistance was provided by Masonville, Unadilla, Sidney Center, Oneonta, Guilford & Harpursville fire departments, no injuries were reported, Sidney was back in service at about 8:30PM.

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.

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.

P.M. NEWS MONDAY 6-15-26

Masonville Fire Departments responded to a barn fire Thursday at about 3:00 PM on State Route 8. 8 other Fire companies from surrounding communities also responded, Route 8 was closed off to traffic for several hours as crews worked to set up water supplies and utilized tankers from other departments. The barn was a total loss, no injuries were reported.

The New York Department of State is warning immigrants around the state of a scam designed to steal money and personal information. New Citizens are targeted by fraudulent schemes, where the callers pretend to be immigration officials or agents, typically, agencies do not text immigrants about their cases or contact them through personal social media accounts, The department also warned about extortion attempts by people impersonating federal agents who demand money under threat of deportation, more information is available at dos.ny.gov/know-your-rights.

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.

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.

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.

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 WEDNESDAY 6-3-26

The Oneonta Fire Department responded to the report of a fire at the new Dietz Street Lofts in Oneonta, at about 2:00 PM this afternoon. mutual aid was requester from fire departments in Otego, West Oneonta, Laurens and Milford, Videos from scene showed flames on the roof of one of the buildings. WCDO News will have more information as it becomes available.

New York State DEC announced new and continued investments to address extreme heat, new funding opportunities to create public cooling spaces, and expanded assistance to provide affordable cooling for New Yorkers at home. With heat waves and other extreme heat events more common, DEC is coordinating the implementation of the plan with NYSERDA and other state agencies Information about what the public can do during hot weather and how to?locate cooling centers?can be found at health.ny.gov.

A.M. NEWS Wednesday 6-3-26

CHENANGO COUNTY SHERIFF’S OFFICE arrested 30 year old Jordan Robinson of Smyrna for Harassment, Unlawful Imprisonment, Criminal Mischief and Endangering the Welfare of a Child. Deputies responded to a residence in Smyrna for a domestic dispute, where Robinson allegedly subjected the victim to unwanted physical contact, damaged property, and attempted to prevent the victim from calling 911 in the presence of a juvenile. Robinson was Arraigned & was released on an appearance ticket, and an order of protection was issued for the victim. Robinson is to appear in the Town of Smyrna Court at a later date.

The deadline has been extended for those in Chenango County to comment on the County Hazard Mitigation plan, Shane Butler of the County Planning Department explains:

(Shane Butler 6-3-26)

The link for the public comment period is at chenangocountyny.gov/416/Hazard-Mitigation-Plan---2026

The Village of Sidney Police Department is requesting the public's assistance in identifying the individuals responsible for removing 3 nameplates on the Donor Wall at the Sidney Veteran's Memorial Park were stolen, Sidney Village Mayor Ray Baker said that a reward is being offered:

(Ray Baker 6-1-26)

Anyone with information is encouraged to contact the Sidney Police Department at (607) 561-2301.

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 FRIDAY 5-29-26

The Broome County Sheriff’s Office and the Broome County Health Department provided an update on the response to the outbreak of Salmonella that hit the Broome County Correctional Facility earlier this week. Over 300 incarcerated individuals reporting gastrointestinal illness since Monday, 10 were hospitalized, Dozens of medical and healthcare workers responded, hundreds of bottles of water were sent, antibiotics were provided, After it was determined that Salmonella was what affected the inmates, On Thursday, Servpro completed a deep cleaning of all kitchen, programming areas, hallways and common areas within the Correctional Facility. All laundry and linens have been thoroughly cleaned and sanitized. Today, regular schedules resumed, visitation hours return on Monday morning.

Testing from the recent stomach illnesses in the Broome County Correctional Facility has confirmed that the cause was Salmonella infection. On Monday, incarcerated individuals began reporting symptoms of nausea, vomiting, diarrhea and headaches to medical staff, over 300 individuals reported similar symptoms over the next 2 days. Results returned on Wednesday have confirmed that the illness stems from a food-borne bacterial Salmonella infection. Correctional Facility medical and housing staff and officials from the Broome County Department of Health and Broome County Office of Emergency Services, are treating inmates, Salmonella bacteria usually stems from contaminated foods, including beef, poultry, seafood, milk or eggs & unwashed fruits and vegetables. The investigation is continuing.

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.

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

TOWN OF UNADILLA HIGHWAY DEPARTMENT WILL BE PAVING SEVERAL AREA roads starting today. Paving is scheduled for Dentwood Dr, Meadow Lane, Hill Top Lane, Old State rd., John Cook rd., Earl rd., Lovers Lane, Sand Hill Rd, and Sowles Rd, Starting today, WEATHER PERMITTING.

Chenango County Planning Department announced that they are seeking more public comments on the Hazard Mitigation Plan, Shane Butler of the Planning Department Shane Butler told WCDO News about the process:

(Shane Butler 5-15-26)

The plan is available at chenangocountyny.gov/Hazard-Mitigation, interested citizens have until the end of May to comment.

2 more American Red Cross Blood Drives are being held today 1 in Margaretville from 1:30 pm. - 5:30 pm., at the Fire Department, another in Deposit from 8 am. - 1 pm., at the Deposit Central School, make appointments at RedCrossBlood.org, by calling 1-800-RED CROSS or by using the Red Cross Blood Donor App.

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.

The State Department of Transportation reminds Oneonta area residents invites the public to an Open House on Tuesday May 19th to discuss project plans and construction for the Southside Oneonta Safety and Mobility Improvement Project. The project calls for improving safety, traffic flow, and pedestrian access on State Route 23 & 28, by extended turning lanes, additional sidewalks, full repaving, and updated pavement markings. Construction is expected to start in June and continue through fall of 2027. The open house will be held on Tuesday at the Southside Community Room at 5006 State Highway 23 in Oneonta, session will be from 11 am. to 1 pm. and 4 pm. to 6 pm.

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.

P.M. NEWS MONDAY 5-11-26

On Sunday morning at 9:14pm the City of Norwich Fire Department was dispatched for the report of a structure fire located at 6 & 6A Griffin Street in the City of Norwich. Firefighters found a working fire, crews entered the apartment building and found fire and smoke conditions within both apartments, they searched for occupants on all floors, they were able to bring the fire under control within an hour of arrival. Norwich Fire Department was assisted by the Sherburne, Oxford, North Norwich & Plymouth Fire Departments, the cause of the fire was determined to be accidental and involved improperly discarded ashes from a prior campfire with the remaining ashes placed in a garbage bag on the rear porch of the home. There were no reported injuries to firefighters. 2 occupants of the home were evaluated at the scene by EMS & were released.

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.

State Police Superintendent Steven James announced the Annual Trooper Awards, for bravery & service to New Yorkers. The Brummer Award, which is the Highest Award for Heroism, went to Trooper Thomas Stiehler of Troop G, who on July 4th 2025, responded to a shooting involving a teenage male and a structure fire one block from the Plaza, he entered the burning building to ensure all occupants had evacuated. He then entered the adjoining smoke filled residence, and removed a disabled woman, carrying her down several flights of stairs to safety. Locally, Trooper Timothy Murray at Troop C, who also volunteers as a firefighter and EMT with the Delhi Fire Department, responded to a fatal motor vehicle accident and provided life-saving care to a severely injured fellow trooper. State Police participated in the 1st National Top Trooper Competition in Texas, Sergeant Nicholas Trentanelli and Trooper Lindsey Rumenapp of Troop C, were both selected to participate following a statewide tryout process.

The Appalachian Regional Commission Area Development Grant opportunity for 2027 funding is now open, offering funding opportunities for non-profits, educational institutions, economic development agencies and municipalities to strengthen communities, expand workforce capacity & plan reconstruction projects. Theapplication deadline is June 15th, at southerntier8.org/how-to-apply.

A.M. NEWS WEDNESDAY 5-6-26

The Broome County Department of Public Works announced that a culvert replacement will be taking place along Old Route 17 in the Town of Sanford starting next week, the road will be closed from May 11th through August 14th, motorists will need to seek alternative routes, Detour routes will be posted for motorists to follow.

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.

The Next Chenango County free Rabies clinic will be held today at the Columbus Highway Department on State Highway 80. The clinic for dogs cats & ferrets will be from 5:30 to 6:30 PM, pre-registration is requested at health,ny.gov/go2clinic.

P.M. NEWS FRIDAY 5-1-26

The Chenango County Sheriff's Office arrested 38 year-old Zachary Lindow of Greene following an investigation into 2 separate incidents. Deputies responded Sunday to a reported domestic dispute in Greene, where Lindow allegedly subjected the victim to unwanted sexual contact and threats, he fled before deputies arrived, An arrest warrant was issued. On Monday deputies responded to a harassment complaint in Greene, also involving Lindow, he was located by the Broome County Sheriff's Office and he was turned over to the Chenango County Sheriff's Office and was charged with 2 counts of Aggravated Harassment, plus Sexual Abuse, 2 counts of Intimidating a Victim or Witness, he was was arraigned and released on his own recognizance. He will appear in court at a later date.

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.

P.M. NEWS WEDNESDAY 4-29-26

Hundreds of UTV riders showed up Sunday for the UTV ride & Poker Run through the woods in the town of Guilford, to raise money for the building of a new fire house for the Guilford Fire Department, organizers Teri Schunk & Roger Barnhart told WCDO News about the fundraiser:

(Teri Schunk-Roger Barnhart 4-29-26)

The Amount raised through the UTV ride participants, poker players & money raised from food located at PAK Construction in Guilford has not bee tabulated yet, it should be announced shortly.

Chenango County Health Department announced a free rabies clinic in Plymouth today. The Clinic will be held from from 5:30 to 6:30 PM at the Plymouth Fire Department. For More information call 607-337-1673.

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.

As the warmer weather arrives, with it comes an increased tendency for crimes of opportunity to occur as vehicles, homes and other valuables may be left unsecured. The Oneonta Police Department reminds resident to close and lock your home and vehicle's windows and doors, keep valuables hidden from sight and be sure to secure any easily moved home and lawn decorative items when you are not home. Oneonta Police Department will conduct patrols of all residential neighborhoods to detect and deter criminal activity, and will notify residents of any concerns that they may observe, if you suspicious activity, contact Oneonta police at 607-432-1111.

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.

Governor Kathy Hochul announced that more than $25 million is being awarded to 133 farms in 23 counties across the state through the Climate Resilient Farming Grant Program, for projects to help New York’s farmers reduce greenhouse gas emissions, protect water quality, protect and enhance soil health, in the Southern Tier, more than $3.7 Million Dollars has been awarded to 33 farms.

The Masonville Town Board announced that tonight's meeting has been re-scheduled, their next meeting will be held on Wednesday April 8th at 7:30 PM.

A.M. NEWS Wednesday 4-1-26

The Unadilla Fire Department announced an update on the I-88 Closure between Exit 10 and Exit 12. I-88 is currently closed westbound at Exit 12, to Exit 10, also the Route 357 bridge over the Susquehanna River is closed at this time, due to tractor trailers being unable to safely navigate the detour turn on to State Route 7. Motorists are urged to allow for extra travel time, and exercise caution while traveling along the detour on State Route 7.