WCDO Radio News

P.M. NEWS FRIDAY 12-22-23

The State Police are continuing the special enforcement initiative to crack down on impaired and reckless driving this holiday season. The enforcement campaign is part of the national “Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over” initiative and runs from Wednesday, December 13, 2023, through Monday, January 1, 2024. Drivers can expect to see sobriety checkpoints, Troopers will be watching for distracted drivers, vehicle occupants who are not properly buckled up, and drivers violating the “Move Over Law,” State Police will also conduct underage drinker enforcement details statewide. During last year’s crackdown, State Police arrested 453 people for DWI and issued 32,934 tickets, including 11,305 tickets for speeding, 912 for distracted driving, and 316 for the “Move Over Law.”

The warm up act for Nate Smith at the Southern Tier Music Festival in July has been scheduled, one of the organizers Ed Curley visited WCDO This Mon ring & made the announcement:

(Ed Curley 12-22-23)

Ed was joined by Teri Schunk, they talked about new camping that will be available at General Clinton Park that weekend:

(Teri Schunk Ed Curley 12-22-23)

More information & tickets are available at southerntiermusicfest.com.

The Bandera Family and Community Alliance will be providing free meals on Christmas day at a variety of locations across the Southern Tier. Meals will be available for dine-in, take out from noon to 2 pm. at the Norwich American Legion, the Oxford American Legion, and the Sidney American Legion. For more information on the Bandera Family and Community Alliance, visit BanderaChristmas.com or the Bandera Family and Community Alliance Facebook page.

A.M. NEWS FRIDAY 12-22-23

Area Resident Gene Schmidt announced that he & his family & volunteers will be serving Christmas dinner again this year, he told WCDO News that it will be at a different location:

(Gene Schmidt 12-6-23)

Schmidt said that people interested in volunteering can also visit his Facebook page & send an instant message this year.

Filmmaker Joseph Stillman will premier his latest movie: “Bear” this weekend in Oneonta, Stillman told WCDO News about his latest film:

(Joseph Stillman 12-18-23)

Stillman said that the movie was filmed around the Gilbertsville area, with local talent on both sides of the camera, The premier of “Bear” will be this today & Saturday at Foothills Performing Arts Center, at 5:00pm and 7:30pm both days, Tickets are available at the box office or at bearthemovieinfo.ticketleap.com/bear.

Bassett Healthcare Network and Helios Care are collaborating to provide hospice and palliative care to patients in Central New York. The State Department of Health has given approval for Helios Care to expand their services to include Herkimer and Chenango Counties to better serve within the Bassett Healthcare Network. Currently, Helios Care serves Otsego, Delaware, and Schoharie Counties.

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.

P.M. NEWS MONDAY 12-11-23

The Town of Oneonta has adjusted the restricted area to the public to properties close to the area around Saturday's explosion & fire at Richards Avenue in Oneonta's West End. Residents within the affected area will be allowed to secure their homes from the outside only, Town of Oneonta Code Enforcement will be on scene with NYSEG to assist residents, the Code Enforcement Office phone number is 607-432-8606. The phone number for town hall is 607-432-2900. A representative from Mobile Crises Assessment Team is at the Oneonta Town Hall today and Wednesday at starting at 10:00 AM for anyone who needs assistance, their phone number is 315-732-6228.

The Jericho Arts Council is now looking for artists to participate in next year's Regatta Row 2024. Spokesperson Rachel Hares explains:

(Rachel Hares 12-11-23)

The chairs will be displayed in Bainbridge from April to Memorial Day Weekend, when they are auctioned off during the General Clinton Canoe Regatta, applications and details are available online at jerichoarts.com, more information is available at 607-643-2211.

A.M. NEWS MONDAY 12-11-23

On Saturday at approximately 5:30 pm; The Otsego County 911 Center received multiple 911 calls reporting an explosion and residential structure fire on Richards Avenue in the Town of Oneonta. The Oneonta Fire Department and multiple mutual aid departments responded. Upon arrival, they found multiple structures with severe damage and an active structure fire. Deputies and members of various fire departments assisted residents in the immediate area with a precautionary evacuation. Once the fire was extinguished, 60 year old Desmond Moan was found deceased. A neighboring resident received medical attention for minor injuries sustained during the explosion, the initial investigation determined the cause of the fire at 18 Richards Avenue was a result of human error.

Delaware County Officials are aware of a complaint filed in the Northern District of New York by The Reporter. Officials can not make any comment at this time as the matter is in pending litigation, but officials deny all claims against the County as well as any individual named as a defendant in that matter, and will vigorously defend the action. The County was sued last week by the Reporter, as they claim that the action by the Board of Supervisors to remove The Reporter as the County's official paper for the publishing of legal notices, was in retaliation for coverage of county affairs by the Reporter's staff.

State Senator Joseph Griffo of presented the New York State Senate Empire Awards to a few Chenango County businesses recently. Griffo announced that the awards went to Golden Artist Colors of New Berlin, Preferred Mutual Insurance Company of New Berlin, Service Pharmacy of Sherburne & The Sherburne News.

P.M. NEWS FRIDAY 12-8-23

Breakfast with Santa will be held Sunday at the Community Cultural Center at 1 Bridge Street in Sidney, Sidney Chamber President Teri Schunk & Community Cultural Center Spokesperson Amy Williams explain:

(Teri-Amy 12-8-23)

More information about this & future programs at the Cultural Center can be found on their Facebook Page.

CHENANGO COUNTY Health Department will hold a free rabies vaccine clinic for dogs, cats & ferrets Saturday, from 9:00 to 10:30 AM at the South New Berlin Fire Station, registration is required at 337-1673.

West Windsor will hold their Santa Parade Saturday at 11:00 AM, line up starts at 9:30 at the West Windsor Fire Station, Santa & Mrs. Claus will arrive at the Community House at the end of the parade, where children can take pictures with and visit & hot cocoa will also be available.

A.M. NEWS FRIDAY 12-8-23

Bainbridge will be having their holiday celebrations this weekend, Bainbridge Chamber President John Payne explains:

(John Payne 12-8-23)

Sunday's Caroling originally scheduled to begin at 5:00 pm has been canceled due to the forecast of inclement weather.

P.M. NEWS THURSDAY 12-7-23

The Sidney Community Cultural Center will feature their annual "Breakfast With Santa" event this Sunday, Sidney Chamber President Teri Schunk &Cultural Center Spokesperson Amy Williams explained on WCDO This Morning:

(Teri Schunk-Amy Williams 12-7-23)

Additional information about this & other events are available at the Community Cultural Center Facebook page.

Attorney General Letitia James & a coalition of 21 attorneys general, support a proposed Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives rule that would ensure more gun sales are subject to background checks. Following the passage of the Bipartisan Safer Communities Act, the ATF proposed a new regulation to clarify what it means for a person to be "engaged in the business" of dealing in firearms, and therefore required to obtain a license and run background checks when selling guns, that rule would close loopholes that allowed for the unlicensed sale of firearms, including online and at gun shows.

State Comptroller's office has completed audits of municipalities around the state, an audit of the Town of Colesville found that Officials did not always use a competitive process when purchasing goods or services and some officials were unfamiliar with the town's procurement policy requirements. In the village of Greene, officials developed a comprehensive investment program but did not effectively manage the program, they did not prepare monthly cash flow forecasts to estimate funds available for investment or monitor investments and did not formally solicit interest rate quotes or consider other legally permissible investment options.

A.M. NEWS Thursday 12-7-23

The Cornell Law School First Amendment Clinic and Greenberg Traurig, LLP filed suit against Delaware County, its Board of Supervisors, and its County Attorney Amy Merklin on behalf of news outlet The Reporter. The Complaint alleges that County officials violated the news outlet’s rights under the 1st & 14th Amendments when they revoked The Reporter’s designation as an official county paper in retaliation for its coverage, Attorney Heather Murray comments:

(Heather Murray 12-7-23)

This Morning, one county official, who preferred to remain anonymous, stated that as of Wednesday night, none of the County Board or County Attorney Merklen have seen the lawsuit, and that they can not comment on pending litigation.

Congressman Marc Molinaro announced his constituent service team will hold mobile office hours today from 11:00am to 1:00pm at the New Berlin Village Clerk Office at 13 South Main Street, constituents will be able to connect with representatives from Rep. Molinaro's office to share comments and resolve issues they are having with federal agencies like the VA, IRS, and Social Security Administration.

P.M. NEWS MONDAY 12-4-23

Helios Care will hold a special meeting for those grieving during the holidays, social worker Inda Fitch explains:

(Inda Fitch 12-4-23)

The event will be held Saturday December 9th from 2:00 to 3:00 PM at the Meridale Community Church on State Route 10, more information is available at HeliosCare.org or by calling 607-432-5525.

Congressman Marc Molinaro announced his constituent service team will hold mobile office hours from 11:00am to 1:00pm on Thursday, December 7 at the New Berlin Village Clerk Office at 13 South Main Street. Constituents will be able to connect with representatives from Rep. Molinaro's office to share comments and resolve issues they are having with federal agencies like the VA, IRS, and Social Security Administration.

A.M. NEWS MONDAY 12-4-23

11 Fire Companies responded Friday night a fire in Stamford. The buildings were on fire at 62 to 64 Main Street in Stamford, 2 historic buildings were lost, the fire displaced 30 residents and 2 businesses, 2 residents & 2 firefighters were injured, with non-life threatening injuries. The Red Cross & Churchill Gym helped displaced residents, the cause of the fire is under investigation. The Stamford Village Hall will accept donations today through Friday from 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM. Locally, Waste Recovery Enterprises of Sidney is collecting donations of canned food & toiletries for the 11 families displaced, teh items can be dropped off at their location at Valley View Road & they will deliver them to Stamford.

Donations of new unwrapped toys, coats and school supplies are requested, Drop off locations locally through December 15th are at the Binghamton State Office Building, 44 Hawley Street and the Homer Folks Facility, 28 Hill Street, Oneonta.

P.M. NEWS TUESDAY 10-17-23

The Chenango County Sheriff's Office is looking for the public's assistance on locating Derek Crouse, who is wanted by the Chenango County Sheriff's Office for Grand Larceny. Crouse was last known to be in the Oneida County area, anyone with information should cal (607)337-1921 or (607)334-2000 extension 1.

The State Cannabis Control Board voted to extend the adult-use cannabis license application window from December 4th until December 18th, to all adult-use license types. The Board moved to extend the application window in response to positive interest from New Yorkers, The priority application period for micro-business and retail applicants who have proof of control over a location was also extended from November 3rd to November 17th.

The Binghamton Black Bears Hockey Season began Saturday at the Arena, with a 7-3 victory, Spokesman Brooks Hill told WCDO News that the team is optimistic about their chances this year & are pleased with the fan support:

(Brooks Hill 10-17-23)

The next home game is Saturday at the Arena against Danbury, more information available at binghamtonblackbears.com

Broadway in Binghamton is teaming up with the Broome County Humane Society with a special offer on Tickets for "Bluey's Big Play" coming to the Forum Theater, Tina Niles from NAC Entertainment explains:

(Tina Niles 10-17-23)

The items that the Broome County Humane Society needs for their animals can be found at BCHumaneSOC.com, more information on Bluey's Big Play is available at BroadwayInBinghamton.com.

A.M. NEWS Tuesday 10-17-23

The Tioga County Grand Jury forwarded indictments to the Tioga County Court regarding the Thomas Rath Kidnapping & Murder case. Arraigned in the Tioga County Court were 37 year old Joseph Howell, for 1st & 2nd degree Murder, kidnapping & intimidating a witness, 31 year old Colleen Dillon for 1st & 2nd degree murder & kidnapping, 39 year old Kysha Radcliff for kidnapping & 31 year old Jonathan Glennon, for 1st & 2nd degree murder and kidnapping, 11 people were charged in the case, Additional indictments are pending.

Governor Kathy Hochul announced that more than $8.8 million has been awarded to projects to create more housing. Greater Opportunities for Broome and Chenango, will receive $4.3 million to develop 17 units including 50 beds of permanent housing for chronically homeless individuals and families in New Berlin. The project includes the preservation of seven existing units and 10 newly constructed units, as well as the moderate rehabilitation of three buildings and the gut rehabilitation of another.

P.M. NEWS WEDNESDAY 10-11-23

Broome County Executive Jason Garnar announced a new emergency order that prevents New York City residents from using housing vouchers in Broome County. County officials said the vouchers are part of a New York City program which provides a housing allowance to eligible city families in a shelter or who are homeless. Garnar previously issued an executive order earlier this year that allowed for law enforcement to order busses with migrants to turn back around & not stop in Broome County, as the County was facing its own housing issues.

A new survey on school safety has been released that places New York State near the bottom, ranking 45th out of 50 for overall student safety. New York ranked 1st in school safety plans, but ranked poorly for weapons in schools, exposure to illegal drugs, & for students feeling safe at school. The full report can be found at scholaroo.com.

A.M. NEWS Wednesday 10-11-23

The last steps are being taken to set up another way for Norwich & New Berlin residents to get high speed internet, Chenango County Director of Planning Shane Butler told WCDO News that a grant was acquired that allows Interconnect Wireless Corporation to offer a new internet service:

(Shane Butler 10-11-23)

Butler said that those who may be interested in the new service can go to intwireless.com for more information.

State Comptroller Tom DiNapoli announced that New Yorkers may check to see if they are owed money by the state, as there are 49 million unclaimed funds accounts valued at $18.4 billion with funds dating back to the 1940’s. The Comptroller’s Office has an online database is located at osc.state.ny.us or by calling 1-800-221-9311.

P.M. NEWS FRIDAY 7-21-23

National Baseball Hall of Fame Induction Ceremonies will be held this weekend in Cooperstown. The festivities start with the Parade of Legends Cooperstown at 6:00 PM Saturday. The parade originates at Lake Street and Chestnut Street, proceeds down Chestnut Street toward Main Street and onto Main Street to the Baseball Hall of Fame. The Parade of Legends will feature more than 4 dozen returning Hall of Famers as well as Class of 2023 members Fred McGriff and Scott Rolen. The Induction Weekend will conclude with the inductions of McGriff and Rolen Sunday at 1:30 at the Clark Sports Center.

The Oneonta RC Flyers will have an open house Sunday from 12:00 Noon until 4:00 PM in Milford. The event will be held at the Milford BOCES Field, there will be demonstrations of a variety of radio controlled aircraft, more information is available at ONEONTARCFLYERS.Com.

A.M. NEWS FRIDAY 7-21-23

43 year old Thomas Stanley of New Berlin appeared in Delaware County Court Thursday & was arraigned on a sealed indictment. The 6 count indictments was unsealed, the Indictment alleges that Stanley intended to sell the heroin, fentanyl, and methamphetamine that was discovered in the trunk of a car on April 30, 2023, in the Village of Sidney. After being arraigned, Stanley was released from custody under the supervision of the Delaware County Probation Department, each of the felonies carry a maximum 9-year sentence. The Village of Sidney Police arrested Stanley Thursday for 3 counts of criminal possession of a controlled substance.

P.M. NEWS MONDAY 7-17-23

Otsego County Department of Health reported that a bobcat in the town of Unadilla tested positive for Rabies Saturday. Officials said that 1 dog was exposed but was vaccinated, it received a booster shot & was treated for wounds suffered from the bobcat. 4 people are also undergoing post rabies exposure treatment, DEC officials were looking a for 2nd possibly rabid bobcat in Unadilla. Otsego County residents can call the health department at 607-547-4230 or visit otsegocounty.com for information regarding rabies.

Chenango County Sheriff's Office arrested 49 year old Edward Williamson for Burglary, Grand Larceny, Criminal Mischief and Conspiracy. Williamson was arrested following an investigation of a burglary that occurred in November 2022 in the Town of New Berlin. Williamson was arrested at the Oneida County Correctional Facility, where he was being held on unrelated charges, he was transported back to Chenango County for arraignment & was remanded back to the Oneida County Correctional Facility, he will return to Chenango County at a later date.

The Otsego County Sheriff’s Office has arrested 35 year old Brian Worden of Oneonta following a disturbance call. Worden is accused of possessing a controlled substance when police showed up to a disturbance in the Meadows Office Complex Parking lot, Worden was arrested & was issued an appearance ticket.

A.M. NEWS MONDAY 7-17-23

State Police BCI unit arrested 36 year old Ian Rotunno of Fenton, Thursday for multiple counts of Criminal Possession of a Weapon. Rotunno was found in possession of a loaded and illegal rifle when located by law enforcement after a 24 hour manhunt. An investigation revealed that the weapon is a “ghost gun”, plus he is accused of possessing 2 magazines that are not New York State SAFE Act compliant and were loaded with armor piercing ammunition. Rotunno was transported to Broome County Central Arraignment and Processing.

P.M. NEWS THURSDAY 7-13-23

Severe weather is heading east this afternoon from the western Counties, local meteorologist Rich Townsend told WCDO news what the weather models are showing for the Southern Tier:

(Townsend 7-13-23)

We will have our latest forecast following this news cast.

The Otsego County Fair is scheduled for August 1st through the 6th this year at the fairgrounds in Morris, Fair spokesperson Lisa Jackson told WCDO news about the schedule of activities:

(Lisa Jackson 7-13-23)

More information is available at otsegocountyfair.org.

Delaware County District Attorney's office announced that 58 year old Mark Seeley of Walton, was sentenced to 2 years in the County Jail for Aggravated Harassment and Criminal Contempt. On September 11, 2022, Seeley, threatened several individuals, the Court issued orders of protection for the victims, Seeley violated the orders of protection multiple times. On May 8th, Seeley agreed to a plea deal in County Court, but on May 31st, State Police were contacted by the victims who had discovered that Seeley posted about the victims on social media. Due to the numerous violations the District Attorney’s Office voided the plea & Seeley was sent to jail.

A.M. NEWS THURSDAY 7-13-23

State Police and other law enforcement agencies continue to search the State Route 79 area and continue to maintain a presence searching for a man that may be a threat to himself and others in Chenango Forks. State Police said that the man may be armed, residents from Route 369 to Richards Road were advised to stay inside, keep their doors and vehicles locked. State Route 79 has been re-opened to traffic. The suspect is described as a white male, with dark hair, approximately 6 foot 1 inches tall and 275 pounds, last seen wearing a black shirt, light-colored pants or shorts and may be wearing glasses. Anyone with information should call 911, & should not approach the suspect..

Assemblyman Joseph Angelino will unveil the signage for the newly named 1st Lieutenant Stephen Doane Bridge spanning the West Branch of the Delaware River in Walton, Doane's actions saved the lives of his fellow soldiers at the cost of his own life. The unveiling will be at the Walton Veterans Plaza at 171 Delaware Street in Walton on Thursday, July 13th, at 11:00 am.

Congressman Marc Molinaro's constituent service team will hold mobile office hours from 11am to 1pm today at the village of New Berlin Offices. During this event, constituents will be able to connect with representatives from Rep. Molinaro's office to share comments and resolve issues they are having with federal agencies like the VA, IRS, and Social Security Administration.

P.M. NEWS MONDAY 7-10-23

Delaware County will host an Innovative Readiness Training mission at the Walton High School starting tomorrow, with medical professionals providing free Medical, Dental & Veterinary services, as well as some community Heathcare providers with additional services, according to Director of Delaware County Planning & Watershed Affairs, Shelly Johnson-Bennett:

(Shelly Johnson-Bennett 7-10-23)

More information about the IRT program July 11th to the 19th, is available at delcony.us or at the Healthy Delaware Face Book Page.

State Police arrested 44 year old Reghan Parker of the town of Union for Possession of a Forged Instrument and Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance. Troopers observed a vehicle making vehicle and traffic violations, with an unlicensed driver operating the vehicle. Troopers said that the owner was Reghan Parker, who was in possession of suspected methamphetamine. Troopers also found that Parker’s vehicle had a homemade piece of paper on the front windshield attempting to represent a New York State Inspection sticker. Parker was issued appearance tickets to Broome County Centralized Arraignment and Processing.

Chenango County Sheriff's office arrested 30 year old James MacDuff of New Berlin today for 2 counts of Aggravated cruelty to animals, 2 counts of Failure to provide proper food and drink to an impounded animal, and 2 counts of Overdriving, torturing and injuring animals, failure to provide proper sustenance in the Town of Norwich. MacDuff was charged after he allegedly left 2 dogs locked in cages with no food or water in an uninhabited residence for over a month, both of the dogs died as a result. Neighbors alerted law enforcement after they noticed a foul smell coming from the residence. When law enforcement arrived, they found two decaying corpses that were still locked inside of their cages. Subject was arrested and released on an appearance ticket. He is set to appear in the Town of Norwich court on a later date.

Delaware County Sheriff's Office Criminal Investigation Division assisted the State Office of Cannabis Management Enforcement Division at an inspection of a local business known as HEMPIRE on State Highway 30 Roxbury. Since June 7th, the New York State Office of Cannabis Management and the State Department of Taxation and Finance have conducted inspections of unlicensed cannabis retail businesses, At the HEMPIRE location, the proprietor did not have the necessary license required to legally sell hemp or cannabis, they seized about $40,000 worth of illicit products. Hempire was issued a Notice of Violation and Cease Order, Businesses found in violation are required to appear at administrative hearings where fines and penalties will be determined.

Catholic Charities of Sidney announced that their backpack with school supplies registration starts today & runs through August 11th. Students of the Sidney School District, whose family meets income requirements, can register by contacting the Sidney office in the Civic Center, or by calling at 607-604-4071.

A.M. NEWS MONDAY 7-10-23

State Police issued a total of 12,991 tickets statewide during the 4th of July STOP-DWI enforcement campaign, which ran from Friday, June 30, to July 5. Troopers arrested 193 people for DWI and investigated 949 crashes, including 158 personal injury crashes and 5 fatalities. Troopers issued over 4600 tickets for speeding, In Troop c, there were 497 speeding tickets issued, 9 DWI arrests, & 110 for child restraint or seat belt violation.

P.M. NEWS WEDNESDAY 7-5-23

The Southern Tier Music Festival on July 1st at the Sidney Airport was considered a success by those who attended & those who helped organize the event, one of those was Ed Curley:

(Ed Curley 7-5-23)

The concert was headlined by Country Acts Maddie & Tae and Restless Road along with a number of local acts, Curley said that the meeting to talk about the future of the event will be on July 19th in Bainbridge.

The Delaware County IRT will be held July 11th through the 19th at the Walton High school, featuring a variety of free services for Medical, Dental, Veterinary as well as mental health, Director of Delaware County Planning & Watershed Affairs, Shelly Johnson-Bennett said that most of the services are available without an appointment, but one service requires registration:

(Shelly Johnson-Bennett 7-5-23)

WCDO News conducted a full interview with Shelly Johnson Bennett recently about the event, you can hear that full interview following the 6:00 PM news tonight on WCDO.

The Gus Macker Basketball Tournament is this weekend at the Norwich High School, organizers are looking for scorekeepers and other positions, according to organizer Tom Revoir:

(Tom Revoir 7-5-23)

Those interested should contact Tom Revoir at 607-336-9622 extension 29.

A.M. NEWS WEDNESDAY 7-5-23

Morris Fire Fighters responded to a blaze at a vacant house at 50 South Broad Street Saturday at around 5:15 pm. Mutual aid was received from fire fighters in West Laurens, South New Berlin, Gilbertsville, Pittsfield, Edmeston, Unadilla and Otego, the cause of the fire is under investigation, no injuries were reported.

P.M. NEWS THURSDAY 6-1-23

Over the past 24 hours, the Broome County Sheriff’s Office has received several reports from residents who received phone calls from individuals pretending to be detectives or deputies of the BCSO. Residents were informed that they had missed their court appearances and were threatened with warrants for arrest or thousands of dollars in fines, the scammer will request payment in the form of credit card information or other means. Residents are urged to terminate the call and not share any credit card information over the phone, Residents who receive scam calls are urged to contact the Broome County Sheriff’s Office at 607-778-1911.

The State Department of Health Bureau of Tobacco Control is releasing 3 new reports that point to the effectiveness of ongoing tobacco control policies adopted in the State over the last few years. The New York Youth Tobacco Survey of middle and high school students, found a decrease in cigarette smoking from 27.1% in 2000 to an all-time low of 2.1% among high school students. A 2nd report showed a decrease from 14.1% to 12.0% between 2017 and 2021. A 3rd report found that flavored vaping product sales and use decreased across the State following the implementation of a ban on flavored vaping products and new limits on the legal age to purchase other products.

The Greater Oneonta Historical Society has a display exploring baseball’s Major Leaguers who played for Oneonta teams. “Oneonta – On the Road to Major League Baseball” opened Today and will run through September 1st at the Oneonta History Center, 183 Main Street. The display will feature baseball cards of some of those players, including Frank Malzone, Don Mattingly, Curtis Granderson, and many more. More information about this & other programs can be found at oneontahistory.org.

A.M. NEWS Thursday 6-1-23

The Sidney Chamber of Commerce will hold their Annual Dinner at the Sidney Fire Hall beginning at 5:00 PM. The Chamber will be honoring Dr. Rohan Jayasena as the Citizen of the Years, He commented to WCDO about this honor:

(Dr. Rohan Jayasena 6-1-23)

Waste Recovery Enterprises will be honored as the Business of the Years, spokesman Sean LaRose comments:

(Sean LaRose 6-1-23)

Also, former Great American Food Store operator Kyle Westcott will be honored for the Commitment to Community Award tonight:

(Kyle Westcott 6-1-23)

Also, the Chamber will honor recent Long time Sidney Mayor Andy Matviak for a special Retirement Recognition.

State Police at Sidney responded to a crash involving a tractor trailer and SUV on State Route 8 near County Road 35 in the town of Guilford. An investigation at the scene revealed that the SUV was on State Route 35 when the vehicle entered the intersection and collided with a tractor trailer that had been traveling on State Route 8. The driver of the SUV, 27 year old Erin Hazen of South New Berlin was transported to A.O Fox Hospital - Tri Town. A passenger in the vehicle, a 3-year-old male was not injured. The driver of the tractor trailer, 51 year old Sergei Maliutin of Cohoes, did not report any injury.

Delaware County Sheriff's office arrested 33 year old Christopher Snyder of West Winfield for driving with a suspended New York State Driver’s license. On Saturday afternoon, May 27th, 2023, Sheriff’s Deputies observed a vehicle traveling on State Highway 206 in the Town of Walton, at 75 mph in a posted 55 mph zone. Upon conducting a traffic stop, Snyder's driving privileges were suspended, he was arrested and was charged with Aggravated Unlicensed Operation of a Motor Vehicle, speeding and failing to surrender NYS License to DMV, Snyder released and is scheduled to appear in the Town of Colchester Court at a later date.

P.M. NEWS FRIDAY 5-26-23

There will be a special ceremony tomorrow at the Sidney Veteran's Memorial Park on River Street in Sidney, Park Committee President Doug Barnard told WCDO about the ceremony:

(Doug Barnard 5-26-23)

Barnard also said that their annual fundraising Golf Tournament will be held on Saturday June 10th at the Sidney Golf & Country Club, teams can still sign up by calling Tom Ruff at 518-256-7899.

28 time General Clinton Canoe Regatta Champion Serge Corbin will be competing for the 1st time in a mixed Pro Team, in this years 70 mile Race on Sunday with a new partner, Ev Chamberlain, they talked to WCDO's Craig Stevens about coming to The Regatta this year:

(Ev-Serge 5-26-23)

Chamberlain was in the Clinton last year in a women's team, Corbin will be competing the in the Clinton for the 32nd time.

State Comptroller Tom DiNapoli's Office audited the Village of Sidney, covering the period of June 2020 to June 2022. The Audit said that the Board and Clerk-Treasurer did not properly monitor selected financial activities, so the total general fund balance for fiscal year-end 2021-22 was overstated by $571,719. For the past 5 years, the total airport operating deficits exceeded $293,000, Delinquent taxes totaling $575,182 date back to fiscal year 2011-12 and officials cannot identify which taxpayers owe $60,452 of that total. General fund assets were overstated by $288,510 and liabilities by $434,929 in fiscal year 2021-22. 2 capital project funds and 3 community development funds have negative fund balances. The Audit's Recommendations were to determine whether revenues are adequate to cover expenditures, Collect delinquent real property taxes & Maintain proper accounting records, Village officials generally agreed and indicated corrective actions would be taken.

A.M. NEWS FRIDAY 5-26-23

The State Police will increase patrols to combat drunk, impaired, and reckless driving throughout this Memorial Day weekend. The special enforcement period starts today and runs through Tuesday. Drivers can expect to see sobriety checkpoints and increased patrols by State Police and local law enforcement agencies during this holiday weekend. On Memorial Day weekend in 2022, Troopers arrested 213 people for driving while impaired, issued 13,688 total tickets, and investigated 808 crashes, which resulted in four fatalities.

Broome County District Attorney Mike Korchak announced that 50 year old Michael Seaman was sentenced to 4 years in New York State prison followed by 5 years post-release supervision after pleading guilty to felony Attempted Assault. Seaman admitted that on October 18, 2022, in the Town of Fenton, he attempted to cause serious injury to an 18-year-old male by stabbing him in the leg with a knife during a road rage altercation. The victim was hospitalized and required surgery. Seaman was located in Chenango County later that day.

On Friday, State Police were at a property on County Road 29 in New Berlin, investigating another matter, when they discovered 61 dogs, 11 birds, and 3 cats, all of which were in questionable health, and many were being sold on Craiglist, according to Delaware Valley Human Society Director Erin Insinga, who responded to this New Berlin location, she said that people should either adopt animals at shelters & Humane Society or from licensed reputable breeders:

(Erin Insinga 5-4-23)

Insinga said that all of the animals from the New Berlin location, are being checked out by area veterinarians and the State Police announced that the investigation is ongoing.

Attorney General Letitia James today announced that consumers who were tricked by TurboTax's owner Intuit into paying for free tax services will begin receiving checks from the $141 million settlement. Approximately 4.4 million consumers nationwide will receive checks in the mail from the multistate settlement led by Attorney General James. New York will receive more than $5.4 million for more than 176,000 New Yorkers who were tricked. Individuals who filed for 3 consecutive years could be reimbursed, information about the settlement is available at AGTurboTaxSettlement.com.

Family Planning of South Central New York has been awarded the Comprehensive Adolescent Pregnancy Prevention, the $1.8 million dollar, 5 year grant by the State Department of Health will be used to enhance and expand medically accurate, age appropriate, evidence based programs in specifically Broome, Chenango, and Cortland Counties.

The American Red Cross announce blood drives in Otsego County. 1 drive will be held in Cooperstown from 10:30 AM to 3:30 PM at the Cooperstown High School, another will be in Oneonta from 1:00 to 6:00 PM at the Quality Inn, on State Highway 23. To make an appointment, simply download the American Red Cross Blood Donor App, visit RedCrossBlood.org, call 1-800-RED CROSS.

P.M. NEWS WEDNESDAY 4-12-23

Attorney General Letitia James today secured the largest multi-state agreement with JUUL Labs and its former directors and executives for their alleged role in contributing to the nationwide youth vaping epidemic. As part of a multi state agreement, JUUL will pay $462 million to 6 states and the District of Columbia, New York will receive $112.7 million, which will support underage vaping abatement programs across the state.

Firefighters in Mount Upton & South New Berlin have responded to a reported Structure Fire at 415 Copes Corners Road, in the town of Butternuts. The fire was called in at about 1:00 PM this afternoon, early reports suggest that it is contained to a barn, WCDO News will have more details as they become available.

National Prescription Drug Take Back Day is April 22nd from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM. To find out what local law enforcement agencies are participating this year, go to deadiversion.usdoj.gov.

A.M. NEWS WEDNESDAY 4-12-23

The National Weather Service announced that there is an Elevated Risk of Wildfire today & into this evening across the entire region. The combination of low relative humidity, gusty winds and dry fine fuels could lead to fires spreading today, Everyone is urged to exercise caution if handling any potential ignition source, including machinery, cigarettes, and matches. The annual statewide burn ban is in effect until May 14.

Animal Adventure Park & Preserve opens for the season today, a series of new exhibits & events will be featured this year, the full schedule is available at theanimaladventurepark.com/events.

P.M. NEWS WEDNESDAY 3-8-23

Norwich Police Department's new Chief Reuben Roach was sworn in by City of Norwich Mayor Brian Doliver Tuesday. Roach has had a 19-year career in law enforcement, serving in multiple positions over his career.

19th District Congressman Marc Molinaro announced that Opportunities for Otsego will receive $4.3 million dollars. The funds will be used to support the Head Start program, which provides early childhood education, health, nutrition, and parent involvement services to children from low-income families.

A.M. NEWS Wednesday 3-8-23

Broome County District Attorney Mike Korchak announced that Michael Seaman of New Berlin pleaded guilty in Broome County Court to felony Attempted Assault. Seaman admitted that on October 18, 2022, in the Town of Fenton he attempted to cause serious injury to an 18-year-old male by stabbing him in the leg with a knife during a road rage altercation. The victim was hospitalized and required surgery. Seaman will serve 4 years in State prison followed by 5 years post release supervision, he also waived his right to appeal. He will be sentenced on May 24th.

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.

Broome County Sheriff Fred Akshar announced that they will be offering a $5,000 sign-on bonus for all new Corrections Officers hired as lateral transfers. Sheriff Akshar stated that they were down by about 40 full time positions in the Corrections Department, Eligibility for this bonus is open to certified Corrections Officers currently employed at local correctional facilities across New York State. Under the new incentive, qualified lateral transfers will receive an extra $2,500 in their first paycheck with the Broome County Sheriff’s Correctional Facility, plus other incentives, The incentive was approved by the Broome County Legislature on February 16th.

Broome County DA Michael Korchak announced that 45 year old Alan Holmes of Binghamton pleaded guilty to felony Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance. In June of 2021, Holmes was arrested following a Traffic Stop in Johnson City, he was a passenger in the vehicle & was found to be in possession of a large quantity of fentanyl, plus he was out on parole for a 2019 narcotics conviction. Holmes will be sentenced to 5 years in New York State prison on May 17th.

The State Department of Labor reminds New Yorkers that a new law is in effect that reiterates the State’s commitment to protecting workers who take legally protected absences from work. The law clarifies that it is illegal for employers to threaten, penalize, discriminate, or retaliate against employees for using absences protected under federal, state, or local law, including time off covered by New York State Paid Family Leave and New York State Paid Sick Leave. More information is available at dol.ny.gov/retaliation.

A.M. NEWS TUESDAY 2-21-23

The Norwich City Police Department is investigating an assault on 1 of their officer on Monday at 8:47 p.m. at the Stewart's Shop on State Route 23 in the Town of Norwich. The suspect driver is a White Male wearing a baseball cap, with a black Puma Hoody, dark pants and was seen driving a white Chevy sedan with out of state plates, traveling east on Route 23 toward South New Berlin. The passenger with the suspect was Jesse Dann. Anyone with information should call the Police Department at 607-334-1212.