WCDO Radio News

P.M. NEWS TUESDAY 11-25-25

39 year old Tanya Carson of Masonville was convicted in Delaware County Court today to Endangering the Welfare of an Incompetent or Physically Disabled Person in the First Degree. The investigation began when a 14-year-old disabled child was found unresponsive on the bathroom floor, the unconscious child was airlifted to Upstate Medical Center in Syracuse, where it was discovered that he had methamphetamine in his system. Carson admitted that she & 2 male individuals had been using methamphetamine in the same home as the disabled child and the child must have accessed the illicit substance, Carson will be sentenced on January 20th.

54 year old James Baker pleaded guilty in Broome County Court to Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance and Criminal Possession of a Weapon. Baker admitted to possessing a significant quantity of methamphetamine, fentanyl, a loaded .38 caliber revolver, about $1400 in cash from suspected drug sales as well as drug paraphernalia. Baker will face 8 years in State Prison with 3 years of post-release supervision for the drug charge, and 8 years in State Prison with 5 years of post-release supervision for the Weapons charge, The sentences will run concurrently. Baker was arrested on March 6, after the Broome County Special Investigations Unit Task Force executed a Search Warrant at 10 Cary Street in Binghamton.

P.M. NEWS TUESDAY 7-29-25

Cooperstown & Charlotte Valley Railroad announced that they will hold a Milford Fire Benefit Train on August 17th, with 100% of ticket sales donated to the Milford Fire Victims Fund. Railroad President Bruce Hodges explains:

(Bruce Hodges 7-29-25)

The fire on July 18th destroyed 4 buildings & damaged others nearby, the fundraising train ride takes off from 136 East Main Street in Milford, more information can be found at cooperstowntrain.com/milford-fire-benefit-train or on the Cooperstown & Charlotte Valley Railroad Facebook page.

20 Attorney's General including New York State, are suing the Trump Administration over its efforts to obtain data from the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, also known as SNAP. According to the lawsuit, the Department of Agriculture is improperly attempting to gather sensitive personal information from low-income families who use the program, including social security numbers and home addresses. New York Attorney General Letitia James reported that it was not the 1st time this administration has tried to use federal agencies to access Americans’ personal data, recently a federal judge declined to stop the IRS from sharing sensitive taxpayer information with federal immigration authorities.

P.M. NEWS WEDNESDAY 7-23-25

State Police arrested 62 year old Kenneth Friedlander of Oneonta for Reckless Endangerment, Criminal Mischief, Menacing and Resisting Arrest, after Troopers were dispatched to Oneida Village Mobile Home Park in the town of Oneonta. Friedlander is accused of attempting to set a trailer on fire with a paper bag that he set on fire, and threatening to kill people, he barricaded himself in a bedroom, when the Troopers made contact with him, he charged at the Troopers with a pair of scissors, he continued to resist arrest, even after a taser was deployed but was ultimately placed in handcuffs. Friedlander was processed and was transported to the Otsego County Jail for Central Arraignment.

Governor Kathy Hochul announced the start of phase 2 of the STAR program benefit season. Eligible homeowners in communities with school tax due dates in August or September will start receiving their STAR benefit in the coming weeks, most homeowners will receive a check between $350 and $600. Most seniors eligible for an Enhanced STAR credit will receive a check between $700 and $1,500. More information is available at ny.gov/STAR.

SFCU announced that they are opening a new Branch in Morris, with a ribbon cutting today, SFCU's vice president of sales and marketing Andrew Smith explains:

(Andrew Smith 7-23-25)

Smith said that the new branch is located at 132 Main Street in Morris.

P.M. NEWS MONDAY 7-21-25

Chenango County Sheriff's Office arrested 39 year old Thomas Kopech of Norwich Friday on an active Arrest Warrant from Town of Plymouth Court from an incident on May 31st, where Kopech allegedly broke into a residence in the Town of Plymouth and assaulted the victims inside the home. Kopech then fled the scene before Deputies responded which resulted in the warrant of arrest. Kopech was arrested without incident and arraigned & was remanded to the Chenango County Correctional Facility on $10,000 cash bail. Kopec is to appear in court on a later date. Kopech was charged with Burglary, Criminal Mischief, Aggravated Criminal Contempt, Aggravated Sexual Abuse, Criminal Obstruction of Breath/Blood Circulation & Unlawful Imprisonment.

SFCU announced that they are opening a new Branch in Morris, with a ribbon cutting this week, SFCU's vice president of sales and marketing Andrew Smith explains:

(Andrew Smith 7-21-25)

Smith said that the new branch is open at 132 Main Street in Morris.

P.M. NEWS FRIDAY 5-30-25

Norwich City Police Department conducted a no-knock search warrant at 35 Pleasant Street as part of an investigation methamphetamine and fentanyl sales. 10 people were arrested on various drug & Criminal Nuisance charges. Arrested were 55 year old Todd Diamond, 66 Year old Charles Bates, 34 year old Todd Diamond, 52 year old Loreen Diamond, 27 year old Andrew Palmer, 24 year old Stephanie Donnelly, 58 year old Howard Grome, 37 year old Travis Foster, 42 year old Matthew Tiedemann & 29 year old Richard Garreau, all of Norwich. The arrests followed a months-long investigation into drug activity, investigators successfully conducted controlled purchases of the drugs, a search warrant executed Thursday which led to the discovery of a methamphetamine lab inside the home. The State Police Contaminated Crime Scene Emergency Response Team was called in to collect hazardous materials, Norwich Fire and Codes Department condemned the property.

4 Towns Forward Community Yard/Garage Sales will be held on Saturday, May 3rd starting at 9:00 am until 2:00 pm, spokesperson Teri Schunk explains:

(Teri Schunk 4-1-25)

Schunk said that for those outside the towns, space in the downtown areas can be reserved by email to dnabinger10@gmail.com, the annual event will be held rain of

shine.

The Binghamton Rumble Ponies announced their 2025 Opening Day roster, with 4 of the top 6 Mets Prospects starting there in Binghamton, and some who excelled in the annual Prospect showcase the "Spring Breakout" game last Month, Team Spokesman Jacob Wilkins explains:

(Jacob Wilkins 4-1-25)

The Rumble Ponies will open the season on the road against the New Hampshire Fisher Cats on Friday, The home opener will be on Tuesday, April 8 against the Hartford Yard Goats at Mirabito Stadium at 6:07 pm.

A.M. NEWS TUESDAY 4-1-25

The Chenango County Sheriff’s Office arrested 58 year old Frederick Clarkson of McDonough for Strangulation, Criminal Mischief, Assault and Menacing, following a Domestic Dispute. Clarkson is accused of causing physical injury, menaced the victim with a blunt object, strangled the victim and took the victim’s phone preventing them from calling 911. Clarkson fled the scene prior to Deputies arriving and was later located in the City of Norwich and was taken into custody without incident, he was arraigned and was remanded to the Chenango County Correctional Facility on no bail.

Local sales tax collections in New York state increased by 3.8% in August compared to the same month in 2023, after stagnant figures in July, according to data released today by State Comptroller Tom DiNapoli. County and city collections in the rest of the state totaled $945 million, an increase of 3.5%. 45 of 57 counties experienced year-over-year increases.

2 more American Red Cross Blood Drives are scheduled for today in Delaware County, 1 in Stamford from 1 pm. - 5 pm., at the Robinson Terrace Nursing Home and Rehabilitation Center,another in Walton from 2 pm. - 6 pm., at the Pines Brook Church, Appointments are scheduled at RedCrossBlood.org, call 1-800-RED CROSS or use the Red Cross Blood Donor App.

Long time Sidney businessman Bill Thomas passed away Friday at the age of 70, Thomas & his wife Linda ran Sidney Auto Body until 2018, Bill also served on the Masonville Town Board & The Sidney School District Board of Education, calling hours will be Thursday from 5:00 to 7:00 PM on at C.H. Landers Funeral Home, 21 Main Street Sidney, A memorial service will be held at the Sidney United Methodist Church, 12 Liberty Street in Sidney, at 11am on Friday.

Broome County District Attorney's office announced that 38 year old Andrew Bethune of Binghamton was sentenced in Broome County Court to 4 years in New York State Prison, followed by 3 years of post-release supervision for Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance. On January 25, 2023, authorities conducted a search of Bethune's apartment located at 111 Oak Street, Apartment 4 in Binghamton, they seized cocaine, fentanyl & methamphetamines, plus packaging materials, a digital scale and $5,481 in cash from suspected drug sales.

National Baseball Hall of Fame Chairman of the Board Jane Forbes Clark announced that a Hank Aaron statue will be unveiled at the National Baseball Hall of Fame in Cooperstown on May 23. The bronze representation of Aaron will be installed on the first floor of the Museum. Aaron was elected to the Hall of Fame in 1982 following a 23-year big league career with the Braves and Brewers, Aaron launched his 715th career home run 50 years ago today. Aaron’s Hall of Fame plaque made a rare appearance outside of the Hall of Fame Plaque Gallery when it traveled to Atlanta for today’s event, the plaque will also be featured at Truist Park today for fans to view at this evening’s Braves-Mets game.

A.M. NEWS MONDAY 4-8-24

A raccoon tested positive for rabies in the town of Meredith. This is the first laboratory confirmed positive case of rabies in Delaware County in 2024. A rabid raccoon entered a cow barn in the town of Meredith and attacked and bit a cow. The raccoon was sent for testing to the State Department of Health Wadsworth Laboratory. The cow that was attacked and bitten has been euthanized. There were no human exposures, and no other domestic animals were exposed to the rabid raccoon. For more information call 607-832-5200 or visit our website at delawarecountypublichealth.com

P.M. NEWS THURSDAY 3-14-24

State Police will increase patrols to combat drunk, impaired, and reckless driving as St. Patrick’s Day celebrations which begins on Friday and runs through Sunday. Drivers can expect to encounter additional DWI patrols and a number of sobriety checkpoints during the enforcement period. State Police will also be ticketing distracted drivers who are using handheld electronic devices and will also conduct underage drinking and unlawful sales to minors details during the campaign.

48-year-old Justin Valk of Davenport was convicted of 2nd degree Burglary in Delaware County Court. Valk was scheduled for a jury trial but at a pre-trial conference, he pleaded guilty. Valk admitted that he went to a seasonal home in Harpersfield, with other co-defendants & the co-defendants entered the home and committed larceny. Valk will be sentenced to 6 years in state prison, followed by 3 years of post-release supervision, he was sent back to the Delaware County Correctional Facility pending sentencing. Valk still faces a 2nd indictment involving the death of his wife, those charges are not included in this case.

A.M. NEWS THURSDAY 3-14-24

The Otsego County Sheriff's Office announced the arrest of 35 year old Ashley Williams of Laurens on multiple counts of Aggravated Cruelty to Animals, Abandonment of Animals & Failure to Provide Sustenance to Animals. On February 19th a search warrant was executed which lead to the discovery of 5 deceased dogs in trash bags. Additionally, 5 live canines were seized & were turned over to the Susquehanna SPCA for medical attention. The deceased dogs were transported to the Cornell University of Veterinary Medicine, it was determined that they starved to death and were partially cannibalized by the living dogs. Williams was found in Oneonta, where city police officers and Otsego County probation officers took the her in to custody, she was transferred to the Sheriff’s Office for processing. Additional charges are pending.

Attorney General Letitia James today co-led a coalition of every attorney general in the nation in securing $350 million from Publicis Health, LLC for the company's role in the opioid crisis. Publicis is one of the world's largest healthcare advertising companies and developed predatory and deceptive marketing strategies for Purdue Pharma to increase prescriptions and sales of opioids such as OxyContin, ultimately fueling the opioid epidemic. New York will receive $19,176,750 as a result of the agreement, which will be used to fund opioid abatement, treatment, and prevention.

Cortland County Deputies were attempting service at 171 Homer Avenue in the City of Cortland, Monday, they were confronted at the door by a male subject with gun, and the Cortland City Police Department and State Police responded to assist. Multiple unsuccessful attempts were made to deescalate the situation and the subject fired upon the Officers. Gunfire was exchanged within the residence and the subject was struck, he was transported to Upstate Medical Center in Syracuse, where he currently remains in stable condition. No Officers were hurt and the State Police have assumed control of the investigation.

The Binghamton Rumble Ponies announced that individual game tickets for the 2024 campaign will go on sale today, at 9:00 AM. Tickets for all 69 Rumble Ponies Home Games will be on sale online at www.bingrp.com, at 607-722-3866, and in-person at the Mirabito Stadium Administrative Offices.

Chenango County Sheriff’s Office arrested 32 year old Keith Tompkins of Oxford for several counts of Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance, 9 counts of Criminally Using Drug Paraphernalia, after deputies observed a male, laying on the floor in the back of the vehicle, attempting to conceal himself by hiding under automotive parts. Tompkins had an active arrest warrant out of the Village of Oxford Court for Unlawful Fleeing of a Police Officer. Tompkins was in possession of over 2 ounces of crack cocaine, about 4 ounces of crystal Methamphetamine, 1,150 wax envelopes of Fentanyl, packaging material, digital scales, and over $2,000 in cash from suspected drug sales. Tompkins was arraigned and was remanded to the Chenango County Correctional Facility without bail. Tompkins is to appear in Chenango County Court at a later date.

Norwich Firefighters responded early Thursday Morning to 137 Horstman Lane for a reported structure fire in a mobile home, they located a fire in the ceiling and roof area of the structure. Crews quickly extinguished the fire containing it to the room of origin along with ensuring all occupants were clear of the structure. Firefighters from New Berlin & North Norwich also responded, the cause of the fire is under investigation. No injuries were reported & all occupants safely evacuated without injuries.

The storm which hit the region Sunday & Monday has claimed the lives of 4 New Yorkers so far. State Police said that an elderly woman in Catskill had her vehicle submerged in flood waters Monday, & she could not be reached by first responders due to the raging flood waters.

A.M. NEWS WEDNESDAY 12-20-23

Local sales tax collections in New York state increased by 5.1% in November compared to the same month in 2022, according to State Comptroller Tom DiNapoli. Overall, local collections totaled $1.81 billion, up $88.6 million compared to the same time last year. County and city collections outside of New York City totaled $887 million, an increase of 4.4%, 55 out of 57 counties experienced year-over-year increases.

Congressman Marc Molinaro's constituent service team will hold mobile office hours from 12:00 noon to 2:00pm today at the Oneonta Town Hall. This comes after a home exploded in Oneonta December 9th, killing 1 person, injuring others, and damaging neighboring homes. Constituents will be able to connect with representatives from Congressman Molinaro's office to get assistance with issues they are facing.

Governor Kathy Hochul announced $25 million in capital grants will be made available to help volunteer fire departments upgrade their facilities and equipment. The grants will be administered by the state’s Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services, fire companies have until April 30 2024 to respond to the request for applications at dhses.ny.gov.

The Broome County District Attorney’s Office announced that Johnathon Aldrich of Binghamton will serve 14 years behind bars and 5 years of post-release supervision after pleading guilty to attempted murder, burglary, robbery & other charges for a home-invasion robbery and attempted murder in Binghamton on July 31st, 2022. Aldrich admitted that he and another person forcibly entered a residence on Bevier Street, threatened the occupants 7 stole money & handguns, also a gun was fired , no one was injured, Aldrich was apprehended by State Police and the firearms were recovered.

The 29th Colorscape Festival will be held September 9 & 10 in in East and West Parks in Downtown Norwich. 107 artists have been accepted into this year’s show. There are 19 first-time exhibitors this fall, Colorscape Chenango Arts Festival organizers are also inviting all high school art seniors in Chenango and adjacent counties to apply for Colorscape's 2023 Francis K. Wilcox Emerging Young Artist Scholarship. 2 students will be selected to receive $350 cash awards plus a $100 gift certificate from Golden Artist Colors. The application form & more information is available at colorscape.org.

A.M. NEWS FRIDAY 5-5-23

The 4Towns Forward Community Yard Sales have been rescheduled to this Saturday, due to last Saturday's predicted rainfall, 4Towns Forward President Teri Schunk comments:

(Teri Schunk 5-5-23)

The events will be held at local homes in Afton, Bainbridge, Unadilla & Sidney, as well the old Bishop Lot in Unadilla, behind Bob's Diner in Bainbridge, at the Community Cultural Center or Market Square in Sidney or at the Afton School Parking Lot for renters or people who live outside the villages. The yard sales will run from 9:00 am to 4:00 pm.

Sunday will be the 2nd part of the 1st "Gilbertsville Hullabaloo" with a variety of sales & activities planned, according to co-organizer Tracie Owen Martinetti:

(Tracie Owen Martinetti 4-28-23)

Martinetti & Gina Gardner have organized the event, which they hope to make into an annual tradition, The event will take place from 10 am. to 3 pm. inside 5 Commercial Street, the site of the former Gilbertsville Value Way and bookstore. All money received for vendor fees will be remitted to Gilbertsville’s Village Improvement Society.

4 Towns Forward will be holding their 2nd annual Community Yard Sales, but due to the predicted poor weather condition this Saturday, the event will be moved to the following Saturday May 6th, according to 4Towns Forward President Teri Schunk:

(Teri Schunk 4-28-23)

Schunk said that they are expecting an even bigger number of Participants this year in Afton, Bainbridge, Sidney & Unadilla. More information is available at the 4Towns Forward Facebook page.

Law Enforcement Agencies around the state are participating in "Operation Safe Stop Day" today, where police officers are checking to see if motorists are stopping for school busses with their flashing lights on, picking up or dropping off students. It is estimated that 50-thousand New Yorkers illegally pass stopped school buses each day that school is in session. Penalties for a first-time offense include a fine of up to 400 dollars, five points on a person's drivers license and possibly 30 days in jail.

A.M. NEWS Thursday 4-27-23

The family of Jorge Jimenez, who was fatally struck by a vehicle driven by former Syracuse University basketball coach Jim Boeheim in February 2019, has agreed to settle a lawsuit against Boeheim. Terms of the settlement will remain sealed, Jimenez was a passenger in a car that that skidded on Interstate 690 and hit a guardrail. Boeheim was driving home after a game when he swerved to avoid the car and hit Jimenez, who was later pronounced dead at a hospital. Boeheim was not charged by police investigating the crash.

P.M. NEWS TUESDAY 3-7-23

Delaware County District Attorney's Office announced that 31 year old Courtni Baker of Sidney was arraigned today on Grand Jury Charges in Delaware County Court . A Grand Jury handed up a 10 count indictment, including charges of vehicular assault, Aggravated vehicular assault, 2nd degree Assault, And Escape, for the February 15th incident where Baker is accused of Hitting 14 year old Anielle AK McEwan Lomnicki on Sharon Street in Sidney as she was walking home from school. Baker is accused of driving while intoxicated at the time of the incident, with a BAC of higher than .18, she is being held in the Delaware County Jail on $100,000 cash bail, $250,000 secured bond or $1 Million Dollars Partially Secured bond.

State Attorney General Letitia James released a list today of the top complaints her office has received in 2022. Over 5200 complaints were received regarding price gouging defective merchandise & poor customer service at retail establishments, over 3,000 were landlord or tenants complaints. over 2800 were about credit, banking & mortgage issues, over 2700 complaints were about consumer services organizations like COVID testing facilities, dry cleaners, restaurants or movers, and over 2500 for automobile sales & service.

A.M. NEWS TUESDAY 3-7-23

The Broome County District Attorney's office announced that 53 year old Robert Randolph of Endicott was sentenced after pleading guilty to felony Criminal Possession of a Controlled substance. Randolph was caught with large quantities of methamphetamine, heroin, and fentanyl when police raided his motel room in Endicott in August of 2021, he was on parole from a previous conviction for selling methamphetamine. Randolph was sentenced to 5 years in state prison followed by 2 years of post-release supervision.

AK Strong T-shirts are being made available locally, to assist with the medical expenses for the McEwan-Lomnicki as their daughter Anielle, also known as "AK", remains at a Syracuse Hospital with injuries sustained when she was hit by a car while walking home from school last week. Local businessman Mike Gavin explains:

(Mike Gavin 2-22-23)

Gavin said that area restaurants will be donating 10% of their sales to the family, Beez Kneez will participate on Friday, Gavin's, Machos Taco's, Tina Old Fashioned Donuts, Sidney Joe's Pizzeria, Trackside Dining & Club 55 will be participating on Saturday. Donations are also being accepted through the Trinity O'Connor Foundation, more information is available by contact Kim Ayres at 607-226-8031.

P.M. NEWS TUESDAY 2-21-23

Fundraisers are underway with more to come, to help the family of Anielle "AK" McEwan Lomnicki with Medical Expenses associated with AK getting hit by a car while walking home from school last week. AK's father, Rich Lomnicki told WCDO news this morning how she was doing:

(Rich Lomnicki 2-21-23)

Kim Ayres of the Trinity O'Connor Foundation is helping to coordinate the fundraising efforts for AK's Family, she said that the Polar Bear Club donated a sizable amount at Saturday Night's Vigil at Keith Clark Park, which drew over 400 people, She told WCDO News about other efforts getting underway:

(Kim Ayres 2-21-23)

Ayres said that JM Trophies & Specialty Gifts will be making up T-Shirts & donating proceeds, plus Shupperd's Tack Shop is printing up signs "AK Strong", all proceeds from that will go to the family, information is available at Shupperd's Facebook page, also Gavin's Pizza is collaborating with local restaurants, On Friday, The Beez Kneez will be donating 10% of all sales & on Saturday, Gavin’s, Machos Tacos, Tina’s Old Fashioned Donuts, Sidney Joe’s Pizzeria, Trackside Dining, Club 55 Restaurant will be donating 10% of all sales to AK and her family.

P.M. NEWS MONDAY 1-23-23

36 year old Jason Gerhard of Montrose Pennsylvania was found guilty in Broome County Court today for Criminal Possession of a Weapon. State Police responded to a home on Patch Road in the Town of Chenango last February, where Gerhard entered a residence without permission, he was in possession of an illegal handgun & was arrested, at that time, Gerhard was on probation for illegal possession of a .38 caliber revolver. Gerhard could spend 3½ to 7 years in State prison when he is sentenced on April 20th.

The Endicott Police Department arrested 44 year old David Scanlin for 3rd degree burglary, Grand Larceny and & 3rd degree Arson. Back on January 11th, Scanlin is accused of setting fire to a vehicle parked at J&K Auto Clinic, later that day, Scanlin is accused of stealing a vehicle on the lot at Tank's Auto Sales. Scanlin was remanded to the Broome County Jail without bail.

Governor Kathy Hochul unveiled a package aimed at fighting domestic terrorism and closing loopholes in state gun laws and cracking down on social media platforms that host violent content. The announcement comes after the mass shooting in Hochul's hometown of Buffalo. The first Executive Order is designed to fight domestic terrorism and violent extremism on social media, the State Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services will establish a new unit that focuses on domestic terrorism, the 2nd Executive Order will call on the State Police to create a dedicated unit to identify possible threats through social media analysis.

The Delaware Valley Humane Society Pop Out program continues tomorrow in Sidney, Society Director Erin Insinga said that the program has gone well so far:

(Erin Insinga 5-19-22)

Insinga said that tomorrow's Pop Out event will be at Curtis Lumber in Sidney from 11:00 AM to 3:00 PM, with Smoke Out Barbecue donating 10% of food sales to the Delaware Valley Humane Society.

A.M. NEWS Thursday 5-19-22

U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand announced the introduction of the Emergency Infant Formula Act, to try to increase domestic production and expand sourcing of formula in order to alleviate the current crisis and prevent future shortages.

(Gillibrand 5-18-22)

Senator Gillibrand said that following a recall at Abbott Nutrition, roughly 40% of formula nationwide is out of stock, compounded by supply chain disruptions as a result of the pandemic, The FDA gave Abbott the go-ahead to begin producing formula again at the Sturgis Michigan facility, but it will likely take many weeks to get shelves filled again at retail stores throughout the state.

The New York State Department of Health alerted New Yorkers that seasonal flu rates are rising statewide and recommended that the public take the same precautions as they follow with COVID-19 – stay home if you have any symptoms, consult your physician, get tested and get treatment, and wear a mask in indoor public spaces. The week ending May 7 saw statewide positive flu rates increase by 25 percent from the previous week, the 25th consecutive week widespread influenza has been reported.

Telephone registrations began today for the Delaware County Clean Sweep Chemical Disposal Days. Solid Waste Department spokesman Tyson Robb explains:

(Tyson Robb 9-17-21)

Telephone registrations are available through October 1st at 865-6474, online registrations are continuing at cleansweepdelaware.eventbrite.com. Farms & Businesses will dispose of their items on Friday October 8th; Homeowners will bring theirs on Saturday October 9th.

A.M. NEWS FRIDAY 9-17-21

State Police are investigating the intentional burning of a pride flag outside of a home in Gilbertsville.   The flag was hanging on the front porch of the home on Spring Street when it was set on fire sometime between September 9 and September 12.  The fire also caused minor damage to the paint on the front porch.  The homeowner also reported that another pride flag and a “Keep it Kind” lawn sign were stolen from the same property several weeks ago.  It is unknown at this time if the incidents are related.  Anyone with information is asked to New York State Police at (607) 561-7400.

A fundraiser to benefit the Chenango County Habitat for Humanity is being held today & tomorrow from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM at 16 North Canal Street in Oxford, next to the Mirabito gas station.  Various items are for sale at local yard sales, more information is available at 843-6249; or chenangohabitat.org.

The United Way of Delaware and Otsego Counties’ campaign started today with the announcement of the fall campaign goal of $50,000. Executive Director Elizabeth Monaco told WCDO News that last year was a tough year for the chapter due to the COVID 19 pandemic:

(Elizabeth Monaco 9-9-21)

Monaco said that last year, largely due to the pandemic & subsequent shutdown,, the United Way of Delaware & Otsego Counties only raised about $17,000, but they also raised $31,000 in local COVID-19 Relief Funds over the last 18 months, beyond the campaign dollars raised, to assist the community in both the short and long term impacts of the pandemic. . This year's campaign will conclude on December 31st, more information is available at 334-8815 or unitedwaydo.org.

A.M. NEWS Thursday 9-9-21

Governor Kathy Hochul announced that New York will delay the requirement that state employees get vaccinated against COVID 19 or undergo weekly tests to October 12th, which is the same day telecommuting workers are scheduled to return to their offices. Governor Hochul said that Workers in hospitals and nursing homes must get their first dose by September 27th, and employees at home care agencies, hospices and adult care facilities have until October 7th to get the first shot. SUNY and CUNY students are also mandated to show proof of vaccination by Sept. 27 to remain enrolled in classes. Some medical exemptions will be accepted.

The American Red Cross of Western New York will be holding a Job Fair today from 12:00 Noon until 6:00 PM at the Southern Tier Chapter office at 620 East Main Street in Endicott. 2 Outside Sales Donor Recruitment representatives & Entry-level Phlebotomists to assist in operating upcoming blood drives are needed locally, Walk-ins are welcome or applicants can pre-register at redcross.org/careers. Those interested are reminded to bring a resume the day of the event.

Governor Cuomo announced a plan for those unable to travel to vaccination sites to receive their vaccine from the comfort of their own home.   Those interested in having someone come to their home can contact their County Public Health Department to make arrangements, in Delaware County call 832-5750, in Chenango County call 337-1660 & in Otsego County call 547-4232

State Comptroller Tom DiNapoli's office reported that Chenango County's local sales tax collections were up over 21% in the first 5 months of 2021, following similar good News about Delaware County.  Sales tax collections across the state were up significantly in the first 2 quarters, New Yorkers as a whole were making home improvements, spending more with local merchants, and the state is collecting a growing amount of tax collections from online retailers and at the gas pumps.

A new Sienna Poll showed that Voters believe by a 50 to 35% margin that Governor Cuomo should not immediately resign, a similar margin believes that he can continue to effectively do his job as governor.    Voters are satisfied with the way Cuomo has addressed the allegations, by a 57% to 32% margin, they approve of Cuomo’s handling of the pandemic, 60-33%, and voters gave Cuomo a negative grade, 27-66% regarding the reporting of Nursing home deaths during the pandemic.

State Police will increase patrols to combat drunk, impaired and reckless driving as St. Patrick’s Day celebrations get underway through Sunday.   Drivers can expect to encounter additional DWI patrols, sobriety checkpoints, State Police will also be ticketing distracted drivers who are using handheld electronic devices, and will also conduct underage drinking and unlawful sales to minor’s details during the campaign.   Last year, Troopers arrested 203 people for DWI, issued 372 tickets for distracted driving and 12,279 tickets in total.

The Orpheus Theatre will hold a virtual "Home For The Holidays Cabaret" online stating this Sunday evening.  Producer Director Sarah Lynn Serafin explains:

(Sarah Lynn Serafin 12-18-20)

The event will streamed online throughout the holiday season on YouTube after the premier Sunday Night.

A.M. NEWS Thursday 12-17-20

Delaware County Public Health announced that they had 5 new cases of COVID 19 Wednesday they report 72 active cases, 1 person is hospitalized & 363 are quarantined.  they have had 540 total cases with 458 recoveries and 10 deaths.

Local government sales tax collections declined by 7.1% in November compared to the same month last year, according to State Comptroller Tom DiNapoli.  The decline is steeper than October's 5.2% decline, but not as significant as the double-digit declines in April, May & June at the beginning of the pandemic. Total local government collections in 2020 are down 10.1% compared to the same period in 2019.

State Police arrested 38 year old Herbert Bidwell Jr., of Mount Vision for Burglary and Criminal Trespass, after Troopers responded to a report of a burglary in progress at a residence on State Highway 28 in the town of Oneonta.  The residents heard glass breaking and called 9-1-1,  troopers found Bidwell inside the residence, he had also entered another home nearby illegally,  He was also found in possession of suspected heroin. Bidwell was processed then transported to Otsego County Central Arraignment and Processing.

Otsego County Department of Health reported 14 new cases of COVID 19, 2 are in college students, and there is a cluster of 10 cases related to a residential group home in Oneonta. Otsego County reports 1039 total confirmed cases with 47 active cases, 0 hospitalized, 8 deaths, and 754 cases linked to SUNY Oneonta & 56 confirmed cases in Hartwick College students

Richelle and Delana Wood of Walton held a lemonade sale at their Walton home in September to benefit the Delaware County Sheriff’s K9 program. The Wood Sisters indicated they wanted to recognize K9 “Ozzie” who passed away due to a medical condition earlier this year, & support the continuation of the program and our agency’s new K9, “Eli”. The girls raised $516.55 for the K9 program; $416.55 through lemonade sales as well as another $100.00 by private donation, Deputy Kyle Karcher and K9 Eli received the donation from the girls at their Walton home last week.

P.M. NEWS MONDAY 10-26-20

Governor Cuomo held a COVID 19 briefing in Albany today, the state conducted over 82,000 tests on Sunday, with 1191 new positive cases statewide. The state remains at over 1000 hospitalized, with 1059, the highest numbers since May, there are 237 in ICU Beds, 118 are on ventilators, and there were 12 more deaths Sunday, bringing the state death toll to 25,742. The Governor talked about how they continue to attack the micro clusters when they pop up, keeping the cases in a much smaller area:

(Cuomo 10-26-20)

The Governor announced today that The RealReal is working with top fashion designers, who are going to design masks; the RealReal is going to make them available through their website, and the profits from the mask sales will go to charities. The campaign goes for five weeks at RealReal.com.

With the Passing of Country Music Legend Jerry Jeff Walker, the idea has resurfaced to memorialize the Oneonta native in his hometown. Previous administrations have liked the idea, but could not appropriate the necessary $20,000 in funding, to put up a bandstand in Muller Plaza, but Long time area broadcaster & performer Doug Decker has started a GoFundMe page to get the necessary funds for the project:

(Doug Decker 10-26-20)

Decker is hoping that some local business owners may come forward as well & help make the Jerry Jeff Walker Bandstand possible.

Delaware County reported 4 new cases of COVID-19 Friday & 2 more on Sunday, the known active cases is now 16. To date there have been 155 confirmed positive cases, with 118 people under mandatory quarantine, 12 people are isolated and receiving care at home and 4 people are in the hospital, 8 people have died and 131 have fully recovered.

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

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

(Alexis Van Buren 10-23-20)

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

The Broome County Special Investigations Unit Task Force executed 3 narcotics search warrants in Port Crane, Binghamton, and a U-Haul storage unit in the Village of Johnson City Friday night.  Investigators arrested 32 year old Worth Brown of Binghamton and 37 year old Amy Nieves of Port Crane, on a variety of drug charges, Police seized $27,000 worth of fentanyl & $78,000 in cash from suspected drug sales, along with a loaded handgun, ammunition, cocaine, Digital scales and drug packaging materials, Brown & Nieves were remanded to the Broome County jail to await further court proceedings.

Delaware County Public Health reported 2 new cases of COVID-19 Tuesday. The known active cases in the County is 12, with 2 hospitalized & 10 recovering at home.  The County has had 145 confirmed positive cases of COVID-19 with 69 people now under mandatory quarantine, 8 people have died and 125 have fully recovered.

Binghamton Mayor Rich David announced today that he tested positive yesterday for COVID 19. Mayor David said that he was feeling fine, but is following COVID guidelines, & he will follow the recommendations of health care providers, he will isolate at home & is working with the Health Department staff for contact tracing purposes. Several other mayors around Central New York are also reporting COVID positive tests following an in-person meeting among mayors & a press conference this week in Syracuse. The mayors of Fayetteville, Ithaca & Syracuse have also reported positive tests since that meeting.

Delaware County Public Health announced 1 positive case of COVID 19 Wednesday, giving the County a total of 129 since March. There are 7 active cases, all patients are isolated at home, 90 people are quarantined, and there have been 8 deaths & 114 recoveries.

Governor Cuomo signed into law 2 bills sponsored by Senate Agriculture Chair Jen Metzger of the local 42nd Senate District, to support New York's family farms. The first bill ensures farmers negatively affected by COVID-19 do not lose their agricultural property tax assessments due to reduced sales. The 2nd bill provides marketing assistance to promote products widely used in holiday celebrations that are produced by New York farms.

State Comptroller Tom DiNapoli said that state tax receipts are $3.2 billion lower than last year, as he released the State Cash Report for August. DiNapoli noted state tax receipts of $4.3 billion in August were $219.1 million below collections in August 2019, due to the COVID 19 pandemic & subsequent shutdown. Personal income tax collections were 6.4% lower than last year. Sales tax receipts were 20.2% lower than last year & August sales tax receipts were 7.8% below those a year earlier.

Delaware County Public Health received no positive lab reports for COVID-19 Wednesday, they still report 117 Positive Results, 108 recoveries, 3 active cases are isolating at Home, 6 are Deceased 55 are under Mandatory Quarantine, they have conducted 16661 tests.