WCDO Radio News

P.M. NEWS WEDNESDAY 12-11-24

Governor Hochul has proposed giving out checks to New York State families next year, for either $300 or $500 coming to households. 8.6 million New York State households would be eligible. The deposits or checks will be sent next Fall of 2025.

NYSEG shut off power in the City of Oneonta this afternoon at the Henry Street substation and impacted about 300 customers in the River Street, Gilbert Street & Fonda Avenue area. The power should be restored to all of the affected residents by the end of the afternoon.

A.M. NEWS WEDNESDAY 12-11-24

The Otsego County Sheriff’s Office arrested 35 year old Holly Adams of New Berlin for allegedly subjected a juvenile to on-going sexual abuse for approximately three years, using threats and coercion to perpetuate multiple forms of sexual abuse on the victim, in the town of Pittsfield. Adams was located Monday in the Town of Columbus and taken in to custody without incident, she was charged with Course of Sexual Conduct Against a Child, Sexual Abuse, Coercion, Forcible Touching, 5 counts of endangering the Welfare of a Child, she was transported to the Otsego County Sheriff’s Office for processing and was lodged in the Otsego County Correctional Facility to await arraignment, An order of protection was requested on behalf of the victim.

P.M. NEWS TUESDAY 12-10-24

According to a recent survey for the New York State Quitline, 64% of Healthcare professionals throughout the state say that they feel that youth and young adults experiencing a vaping epidemic. Tony Astran from the New York State Quitline comments:

(Tony Astran 12-10-24)

Astran will be conducting a Webinar on the topic this Thursday, from 12:00 to 12:45 pm. The program is open to anyone interested in the subject, registration is free & available at nysmokefree.com/newsroom.

Hill City Celebrations announced that their annual Festival of Lights will be open to the public starting this Saturday at Neahwa Park in Oneonta, through January 1st. Also, the New Year's Eve Celebration will be held on December 31st at Foothills Performing Arts Center in Oneonta from 5:00 to 8:30 PM. More information is available at the Hill City Celebrations Facebook page.

Charlotte Bennett voluntarily dismissed her federal lawsuit against former Governor Andrew Cuomo and 3 of his top aides, but will continue to pursue her case in State Court. Bennett filed the lawsuit in federal court 2 years ago, which faced numerous delays and various tactics by Cuomo's legal team. Bennett started working for New York State in 2019, she claimed that Cuomo sexually harassed her while she worked as an executive assistant, she resigned from the position and pursued legal action, Cuomo denied the allegations, but eventually resigned as Governor.

A.M. NEWS TUESDAY 12-10-24

State Police & multiple area Fire Departments responded to 68 White Birch Lake Road in the town of Windsor Sunday for a house fire. 84 year old Daniel Price, was located deceased inside the residence by members of the Windsor Fire Department. An 82-year-old female and a 53-year-old male were transported by ambulance to Wilson Medical Center for what appear to be non-life-threatening injuries. The investigation is ongoing.

Chenango County Sheriff’s Office arrested two State of Louisiana residents on several weapons charges, as well as charges from a Domestic Dispute. 27 year old Jennifer Cascio, and 40 year old Jonathan Rieben were arrested after a domestic dispute in the Town of New Berlin. Deputies found that Cascio and Rieben were in possession of several handguns, high-capacity magazines, as well as an assault weapon. Deputies verified that the firearms were not stolen. Both subjects were arrested, and all weapons were seized for the time being. Cascio, was charged with Criminal Possession of a Weapon, Rieben was charged with Harassment and Criminal Possession of a Weapon, both were released and were ordered to appear in court at a later date.

State Police are reminding people to keep their vehicles locked and to never leave valuables in the vehicle. Criminals are finding vehicles that are unlocked and stealing valuables, also Police remind gun owners to never leave a firearm in an unattended vehicle, it is now a crime in New York to leave a firearm in a vehicle and could result in misdemeanor charges. ALL firearms out of your immediate control should be unloaded and stored in a safe storage depository which requires a key, keypad or other mechanism to access it.

P.M. NEWS THURSDAY 12-5-24

The announcement was made this morning on WCDO, about the Southern Tier Music Fest in Sidney next Summer, Ed Curley is one of the organizer & he announced the

headliner & support acts:

(Ed Curley 12-5-24)

The Southern Tier Music Fest will be on July 5th at the Sidney Municipal Airport, the tickets can be found at southern tier music fest.com or Universe.com.

Gene Schmidt & his family will once again host a Free Christmas Dinner this year in Sidney, Schmidt gave WCDO News the details:

(Gene Schmidt 12-5-24)

Anyone who would like to volunteer at the Christmas Dinner can call Schmidt at 607-610-4030.

A.M. NEWS THURSDAY 12-5-24

41 year old Philip Albergo of Delhi appeared in the Delaware County Court and pleaded guilty to 2 counts of Criminal Mischief, Judge Hubbard sentenced him to 1 year of jail on each count to be served concurrently. On July 1, Albergo had damaged his apartment by ripping out the electrical wiring & kicked a door in response to receiving eviction papers, he was indicted by the Delaware County Grand Jury, was arraigned & was released on the condition that he have no further violations of the law. In August, Albergo returned to the apartment and smashed a window, he was indicted again by a Grand Jury, an arrest warrant was issued, and Albergo was taken into custody. Albergo was issued an order of protection for 3 years and and was ordered to pay restitution to the landlord.

Chenango County Sheriff’s Office arrested 42 year old Mark Tubbs of Unadilla on an active Arrest Warrant for Obstruction of Governmental Administration and Conspiracy, in the Town of New Berlin. Members of the Chenango County Sheriff’s Office arrested Tubbs after positively identifying him as the driver of a vehicle, he was taken into custody without incident, he was arraigned and released on his own recognizance, he faces court action at a later date.

Judge Anthony Brindisi was confirmed to the United States District Court for the Northern District of New York. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand recommended Judge Brindisi to President Biden earlier this year and he was nominated in July. Brindisi has been a judge on the New York State Court of Claims in Utica since 2022, he has been serving as an Acting Supreme Court Justice in Oneida County, Brindisi was served as a member of the U.S. House of Representatives representing New York’s 22nd congressional district.

Norwich Theater Company will present "Scrooge! the Musical" this weekend in Norwich, Mary Beth Miller of the Chenango Arts Council comments:

(Mary Beth Miller 12-5-24)

Tickets are available at norwichtheatercompany.org, or at Service Pharmacy Norwich, New Berlin, & Sherburne or at the Chenango Arts Council Office, or by calling 607-244-3852.

P.M. NEWS FRIDAY 10-18-24

Otsego County Sheriff's Office arrested 37 year old Tyrell Adams of Pittsfield on a number of charged following an investigation. Adams was charged with 3 counts of Sexual Abuse, Forcible Touching, 3 counts of Endangering the Welfare of a Child, Animal Cruelty & Criminal Contempt. Investigation revealed that over the course of several years, Adams allegedly subjected minors to persistent sexual abuse, Additionally he is accused of killing a family pet near children. Otsego County Family Court issued an order of protection against Adams prohibiting contact with multiple protected parties, he then sent Facebook messages to one of the protected parties. Adams was sent to the Otsego County Correctional Facility for arraignment.

Chenango County Health Department reported that a skunk found along State Highway 8 in South New Berlin tested positive for rabies at the State Lab in Albany. The Health Department reminds area residents to make sure that all pets are up to date on the vaccines, more information is available by contacting the Chenango County Health Department at (607) 337-1673

Another American Red Cross Blood Drive will be held Saturday in Oneonta, as blood is needed following the recent hurricanes in the Southern States. The drive will be held Saturday from 10 am. - 3 pm., at the Southside Mall Oneonta YMCA, Appointments can be made at RedCrossBlood.org, by calling 1-800-RED CROSS or by using the Red Cross Blood Donor App.

A.M. NEWS Friday 10-18-24

Otsego County Sheriff's Office announced the arrest of 29 year old Eugene Buzie of Unadilla for multiple sex offense charges following an investigation. The Otsego County Sheriff’s Office announces the addition of charges in to the investigation involving Buzie, On July 19th he was arrested by investigators for multiple sex offense related charges. Upon further investigation, it was discovered that the defendant did request, receive and possess a sexual performance by a child through online sources & was charged additionally with Possession of Sexual Performance by a child, Buzie was still incarcerated on the previous charges, he was produced from the Oneida County Correctional Facility to be processed on the new charge, at the Otsego County Correctional Facility and he was returned to the Oneida County Correctional Facility with an Appearance Ticket returnable to the Town of Unadilla Court at a later date.

P.M. NEWS MONDAY 9-30-24

Early Sunday, Delaware County Sheriff’s Deputies responded to a fatal, 1 car motor vehicle accident on State Highway 23 in the Town of Davenport, that claimed the life of a Davenport resident. An investigation revealed that at approximately 1:03AM, 18 year old Jayden Aviles of Tarrytown was traveling Eastbound on State Highway 23, he was unable to maintain control of the vehicle on a curve, left the roadway, crashing into a private home, 2 sleeping people in the home were seriously injured, 34 year old Larry Vankeuren succumbed to his injuries and was pronounced deceased. This investigation is ongoing.

Norwich Police Department attempted to stop an UTV Saturday afternoon that was illegally driving on Mitchell Street in the City of Norwich. 22 year old Michael Bliss of New Berlin was charged with DWI and Unlawful Fleeing a Police Officer in a Motor Vehicle, Bliss is accused of trying to flee officer, Bliss flipped his UTV at the Rexford Street bridge as he tried to turn onto State Highway 23.

The Broome County Sheriff’s Office aims to create a safer, more understanding environment for interactions between law enforcement and individuals and families with autism, by unveiling the “Blue Envelope Program,” a first-in-New-York-State initiative aimed at easing communication and preventing misunderstandings between individuals with autism and law enforcement during interactions like traffic stops or during an emergency. Sheriff Fred Akshar explained at a press conference today:

(Sheriff Akshar 9-30-24)

More information on either the Blue Envelope Program or the Yellow Dot Program or to request your envelope and sticker, please contact the Broome County Sheriff’s Office Community Engagement Team at 607-778-1168.

Binghamton Police are investigating a fatal shooting early Saturday morning at The North Side Deli on Chenango Street, officers were made aware that a male had arrived at a nearby hospital with gunshot wounds, was provided with emergency surgery and died several hours later. The identity of the victim is not being released at this time.

A.M. NEWS Monday 9-30-24

The City of Oneonta Fire and Police Departments continue to investigate a fire that occurred at 47 Chestnut Street Thursday afternoon. Oneonta Firefighters located the fire in a second-floor street-side bedroom and quickly brought it under control. It was then discovered that what is believed to be gasoline had been present in the room, contributing to the rapid spread of the fire. The deceased has been identified as 48-year-old Jason Stevenson, the investigation indicated that Stevenson ignited what is believed to be gasoline inside the bedroom before taking his own life with a firearm, and the investigation is continuing.

P.M. NEWS THURSDAY 9-19-24

Governor Kathy Hochul announced that $2.3 billion in tax relief will go to nearly 3 million New Yorkers under the State’s School Tax Relief program. More than 2 million New Yorkers have already received their STAR tax relief and nearly 1 million more will receive their benefits in the coming weeks. Additional Information is available at ny.gov/STAR

The State Department of Labor announced that the number of private sector jobs in New York State decreased over the month by 8,100, or 0.1%, to 8,393,400 in August 2024. The State's seasonally adjusted unemployment rate increased from 4.3% to 4.4% in August, the statewide labor force participation rate held constant at 61.3% in August.

A.M. NEWS THURSDAY 9-19-24

A social Media Threat against the Sidney & Walton Central School District was posted on Instagram and Facebook, Sidney Superintendent Eben Bullock told WCDO News that 4 were quickly identified, placed into a safe space & their parents were contacted, they also coordinated with the Sidney Police Department. Sidney Police stated that there was no credible information or evidence to support the threat being real & they remained at the school until dismissal, they are back at the Sidney District again today. Sidney Police are asking anyone with information to contact them at 607- 561-2301.

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

P.M. NEWS TUESDAY 6-11-24

29 year old Jessica Lopez of Sidney was sentenced to 6 years in prison and two years of post-release supervision for Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance in Delaware County Court Monday. Lopez pleaded guilty and admitted that she possessed fentanyl in the Village of Sidney on February 27, 2024, and that she had intended to sell it.

Sidney Fire Department responded at about 11:30 this morning for the report of smoke showing at 11 Division Street. Sidney Fire Chief John GIlmore told WCDO News that a faulty light bulb in the basement was the cause of the smoke, no injuries were reported.

The Chenango Arts Council will present "Melodrama At The Murder" an interactive event on June 21st, Spokesperson Marybeth Miller explains:

(Mary Beth Miller 6-11-24)

Tickets & more information are available at chenangoarts.org or by calling 336-2787.

A.M. NEWS TUESDAY 6-11-14

The Broome County Sheriff's Office said that 2 people were taken to area hospitals, following a serious accident on State Route 369 in the Town of Fenton on Saturday. The investigation revealed that at approximately 5:52 PM, the driver of a silver Honda Civic traveling northbound on State Route 369 near Rogers Road failed to negotiate a turn and crossed over into the southbound lane, colliding with a purple SUV. No fatalities were reported, but both drivers were hospitalized and treated for serious injuries. The unidentified driver of the Honda Civic was issued multiple traffic violations.

The Otsego County Sheriff's Office arrested 28 year old Jeremy Vanpelt of New Berlin following an investigation of a domestic dispute in the Town of Edmeston. Vanpelt was charged with Criminal Obstruction of Breathing or Circulation, Aggravated Harassment, & 2 counts of Harassment, he was later arrested on a probation violation, he was processed and was held at the Otsego County Jail for Centralized Arraignment. An order of protection was issued to the victims of the domestic dispute.

P.M. NEWS TUESDAY 5-21-24

School district across the state are putting up their budget proposals today for public approval, many district also have School Board Seats, capital projects & School Bus Propositions up for public vote. More information is available at most school district websites for locations & duration for the voting public.

State Police arrested 4 people in connection with a case of over 100 neglected animals at a farm on Clark Lane and Pig Farm Lane in New Berlin. Arrested were 44 year old Dominick Brown, for 9 counts of aggravated cruelty to animals & 95 counts of Overdriving, Torturing and Injuring Animals; Failure to Provide Proper Sustenance. 74 year old Jane Richards for 9 counts of Aggravated Cruelty to Animals & 87 counts of Overdriving, Torturing and Injuring Animals; Failure to Provide Proper Sustenance. 56 year old Helen Goude & 60 year old Katheriena Goude, lesser counts of Aggravated Cruelty to Animals & Overdriving, Torturing and Injuring Animals; & Failure to Provide Proper Sustenance. On April 26th, over 2 dozen animals were located deceased and an additional 107 neglected animals were removed, including horses, pigs, cattle, sheep, goats, a llama, dogs and cats. All 4 were issued appearance tickets for New Berlin Town Court tomorrow

State Department of Labor today released preliminary local area unemployment rates for April 2024. Rates are calculated using methods prescribed by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. The State's area unemployment rates rely in part on the results of the Current Population Survey, which contacts approximately 3,100 households in New York State each month. To recap last week's statewide press release, New York State's seasonally adjusted unemployment rate decreased from 4.3% in March to 4.2% in April 2024. Locally, Chenango County had 3.4% Unemployment, Delaware County 4.1% & Otsego 3.8% in April.

Water levels are a big issue every year for the General Clinton Canoe Regatta, Local Paddler Ed Curley Told WCDO News about the usual conditions for the 70 mile race on Sunday:

(Ed Curley 5-21-24)

The full slate of race schedules can be found at canoeregatta.org. WCDO will have extensive coverage of the General Clinton Canoe regatta again this year.

The Sidney High School Flood Monitoring Team will be giving a special presentation for the public in the Smart Community Room at the Sidney Memorial Public Library on Tuesday, May 28th at 6PM. Rich Townsend was a Science Teacher at Sidney at the start of the program in 2007, & is still guiding the program, he told WCDO about donations that they have received recently & what the money will be used for:

(Rich Townsend 5-21-24)

Townsend said that the students have given several presentations about the flood monitoring program. Anyone interested in donating to the project should email: rtownsend@sidneycsd.org. The presentation on the 28th is free & open to the public.

A.M. NEWS Tuesday 5-21-24

Delaware County Sheriff's Office arrested 25 year old Sean Gillespie of Delhi on a bench warrant for failing to appear in court to answer to a drug related charge, issued out of the Town of Delhi. On May 9th, Deputies were contacted by the City Oneonta Police Department, who advised that they who had taken Gillespie into custody, he was turned over to central arraignment processing at the Delaware County Jail to await arraignment.

FRIENDS OF THE UPPER DELAWARE RIVER & the New York City Department of Environmental Protection will hold a meeting today regarding the Delaware Aqueduct Shutdown scheduled for October 1st. The meeting will be today at 10:00 AM until 12:00 Noon at 158 East Front Street, Hancock.

P.M. NEWS TUESDAY 5-7-24

The deadline to register for races at this year's General Clinton Canoe Regatta is approaching, Regatta Chairman Mike Kaufman told WCDO News about that & this year's 70 mile races on Sunday May 26th:

(Mike Kaufman 5-7-24)

More information is available at canoeregatta.org.

Governor Kathy Hochul today announced the completion of renovations at Red Mill Apartments, a $5.2 million, 18-unit affordable housing complex in the town of New Berlin in Chenango County. The rehabilitation included gutting the building interior and extensive repairs to the exterior. The building received a new roof, siding, windows, walls, and doors; upgraded heating, plumbing, electric, and septic pump systems; and a new fire alarm system for the complex. All of the apartments are available for households earning 80 percent or less of the Area Median Income. More information is available at regionalcouncils.ny.gov.

State Supreme Court Justice Daniel Doyle blocked an abortion rights amendment from appearing before New York State voters on the November ballot today. Judge Doyle found that state lawmakers failed to follow procedural rules around passing constitutional amendments, incorrectly approving the amendment before getting a written opinion on the language from the attorney general.

The state Office of General Services has discontinued holding periodic auctions of state surplus vehicles and highway equipment at various locations around the state. State vehicles will be auctioned off online only, along with other surplus items such as used desks or computer screens, tools, & other items that state government workers no longer need. The switch to auctioning vehicles started on May 1. Bidders will no longer be required to show up in person to bid on a vehicle, and OGS and its partner agencies will not have to transport surplus items to auction sites.

A.M. NEWS TUESDAY 5-7-24

Binghamton Police arrested a 17 year old juvenile & seized a “ghost gun” & a high capacity magazine during a stop of a stolen vehicle. The unidentified 17-year-old fled from the vehicle and was pursued by the Binghamton Police & was captured. The Juvenile was charged with multiple counts of criminal possession of a weapon & obstructing governmental administration.

State University of New York Board of Trustees announced an additional allocation of $114 million in direct state tax support across the state-operated SUNY campuses from the Fiscal Year 2025 enacted New York State budget. The money will be used for salary increases and internship funding,

P.M. NEWS TUESDAY 4-30-24

State Police, State EnCon Officers, State Forest Rangers, New Berlin Police, Chenango County Sheriff's Deputies, the Susquehanna SPCA as well as the Office of Emergency Management served a search warrant at properties located on Clark Lane and Pig Farm Lane in the town of New Berlin. Over 2 dozen animals were located deceased and an additional 107 neglected animals were removed, which included horses, swine, cattle, sheep, goats, a llama, plus dogs and cats. The Investigation is continuing.

Another Red Cross Blood Drive is being held this afternoon in Cooperstown from 1:00 to 6:00 PM at the Clark's Sports Center. Appointments are encouraged by using the Red Cross Blood Donor App, at RedCrossBlood.org, or by calling 1-800-RED CROSS.

A.M. NEWS Tuesday 4-30-24

The Village of Bainbridge Board of Trustees will hold an informational meeting tonight at 6:30 PM in the Bainbridge Town Hall, Mayor Phil Wade explains:

(Phil Wade 4-30-24)

Streets that potentially may be affected are Front, River, North Main, Pruyn, Parsons and Freiot Avenue, tonight The board is seeking comments from all interested parties. Representatives from the solar project will also be present to address any questions or concerns.

Broome County Sheriff's Office arrested 37 year old Scott Hanrahan of Sanford for Criminal Possession of a Weapon, Criminal Possession of an Assault Weapon & Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance. On Saturday Broome County Sheriff’s Road Patrol conducted a traffic stop on Route I-86 West in the Town of Windsor, deputies located cocaine, along with various assault weapons & multiple rounds of ammunition, Hanrahan had previous felony convictions & is facing new charges for illegal weapon and drug possession following the traffic stop. Hanrahan was arraigned at Central Arraignment Part and remains in custody at the Broome County Correctional Facility.

P.M. NEWS MONDAY 4-15-24

Broome County Sheriff's deputies responded last Thursday to a report of inappropriate behavior and abuse of a juvenile female victim in the Town of Maine, where a family acquaintance had conducted several inappropriate physical and sexual interactions with a child. 74 year old Mark Turner of the Town of Maine was charged with 4 Counts of Sexual Abuse, he was arrested and taken into custody without incident and was being held for Court action at the Broome County Correctional Facility.

45 year old Katrina Lott of West Edmeston pleaded guilty to Driving While Intoxicated and was sentenced to 3 years of probation, in Deposit Town Court last week. On June 13, 2023, Lott was driving on County Route 8, when she lost control of her vehicle and drove into the ditch. A State Trooper responded to the crash scene and determined that Lott was likely under the influence of alcohol when open containers were spotted in the vehicle. Lott had a BAC of .16% - two times the legal limit.

A.M. NEWS MONDAY 4-15-24

2 Law Enforcement officers were killed, and the suspect was also killed in an incident in Liverpool Sunday night. Syracuse Police Officers encountered a suspicious vehicle Sunday Night, they attempted a traffic stop & the vehicle took off, officers did get the License plate number, it was traced to a Liverpool address to stop the vehicle, Syracuse Police & Onondaga Sheriff's Deputies responded & were encountered by an armed male and an exchange of gunfire followed. One Syracuse Police Officer and one Onondaga County Sheriff’s Deputy were struck by gunfire. The armed suspect was also shot, all 3 were taken to Upstate University Hospital, all 3 succumbed to their injuries.

The Acco Brands plant in Sidney is being sold, Acco Officials said that the company signed a non-binding letter of intent to sell the building to a renewable energy company, if the building is sold in 2024, operations would continue in Sidney throughout much of 2024. CONVALT of Watertown is believed to be the purchaser as they announced on their website their plans to build their main factory, in Sidney with a targeted date of commercial operation in the 1st quarter of 2025.

Congressman Marc Molinaro's constituent service team will hold mobile office hours from 1:00pm to 3:00pm today, at the New Berlin Village Office, 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 THURSDAY 4-11-24

Chenango County Sheriff’s Office arrested 29 year old Elizabeth Gajdzis of New Berlin for 2nd degree Burglary, 3rd & 4th degree Grand Larceny, Unauthorized use of a motor vehicle, and Aggravated Unlicensed Operation of a Motor Vehicle. On March 30th, The Chenango County Sheriff’s Office Road Patrol Division received a complaint of a stolen vehicle from a residence in the Town of New Berlin. Gajdzis is accused of stealing the vehicle, On April 1, she contacted a member of the Detectives Division regarding a separate matter and agreed to meet the Detective, she was arrested, was processed, arraigned & was remanded back to the correctional on cash bail and is scheduled to reappear in the Town of New Berlin Court at a later date.

Hartwick College in Oneonta launched their Together, We Soar campaign last November, with the goal of raising $50 Million dollars for a variety of reason, James Kellerhouse, Vice President for Institutional Advancement & External Relations, told WCDO News about their efforts:

(James Kellerhouse 4-11-24)

Kellerhouse said that they have already raised about $30 million dollars, and that enrollments increased this year by about 10%, with an even higher percentage of new students from the local counties, more information is available at hartwick.edu/giving/together-we-soar.

The Binghamton Police Department arrested a 17-year-old from Johnson City for leaving the scene of a pedestrian hit-and-run Tuesday afternoon. Binghamton Police responded at Court and Water streets for a report of a person who was crossing the road being struck by a vehicle, the victim was a 45 year old man from Binghamton, He was transported to an area hospital w& was in critical condition. Detectives found the suspect and their vehicle later, he was arrested & was released on an appearance ticket.

A.M. NEWS Thursday 4-11-24

40 year old Jesse Barnum of Endicott was arrested in Pennsylvania on multiple felony charges for failing to register under the Sex Offender Registration Act. Barnum was found hiding under a blanket in the rear of a van, he was arrested and extradited to appear in Broome County and Town of Union courts. On Friday, April 1, 2024, members of the Broome County Sheriff’s Warrants Division and the United States Marshals Regional Fugitive Task Force traveled to Scranton area, Barnum was wanted 2 separate counts of Failure to Register Under the Sex Offender Registration Act, plus Bail Jumping.

P.M. NEWS FRIDAY 3-15-24

Area Fire Department & Emergency Squads will be conducting open houses next month, in an effort to get more people involved in their local fire department, following years of dwindling numbers, Bainbridge Emergency Squad member Roger Barnhart comments:

(Roger Barnhart 3-15-24)

Barnhart said that so far, the Afton Fire Department will hold their open house on April 13th, which is the same day as the state wide "Recruit New York" Initiative, the Bainbridge & Unadilla Departments planning to hold theirs on April 27th,

On Monday at 12:00pm, Congressman Marc Molinaro will host an education round-table with school faculty, parents, and teachers at Chenango Valley High School, regarding a loss of state funding.

A.M. NEWS Friday 3-15-24

State DEC reminds residents that the annual statewide burn ban prohibiting residential brush burning begins tomorrow and runs through May 14. Since 2009, DEC has enforced the annual brush burning ban to help prevent wildland fires and protect communities during heightened conditions for wildfires.

The Coventry Fire Department's EMS unit is holding classes as they try to get more people involved, Spokesman Kyle Button told WCDO News that they have classes on Sunday for those interested in the basics of life saving techniques:

(Kyle Button 3-15-24)

Button said that the session will be held at the Coventry Fire Department on State Route 206, more information is available at coventryems.org or by calling 607-656-4060.

Our Krazy 8 Redemption LLC of South New Berlin will be helping with the “March Madness” fundraiser for the Delaware Valley Humane Society this Saturday in Sidney, Humane Society Director Erin Insinga comments:

(Erin Insinga 3-13-24)

The fundraiser will run through the end of March, more information is available on the Delaware Valley Humane Society or Our Krazy 8 Redemption center Facebook pages.

P.M. NEWS Wednesday 3-13-24

36 year old Justin Baker of Sidney appeared in Delaware County Court Monday and pleaded guilty to Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance, Baker admitted that he had possessed methamphetamine with the intent to sell in the Village of Sidney. Judge Hubbard ordered the Delaware County Probation Department to conduct a pre-sentencing report, it is expected that Baker will be sentenced to 2 1/2 years in state prison to be followed by one year of post release supervision, he will likely be enrolled in the Lakeview Rehabilitation Program as part of his state prison sentence.

Our Krazy 8 Redemption LLC of South New Berlin will be helping with the "March Madness" fundraiser for the Delaware Valley Humane Society this Saturday in Sidney, Humane Society Director Erin Insinga comments:

(Erin Insinga 3-13-24)

Christina Dewey of Our Krazy 8 Redemption told WCDO News that they are happy to help out this & other shelters in the region:

(Christina Dewey 3-13-24)

The fundraiser will run through the end of March, more information is available on the Delaware Valley Humane Society or Krazy 8 Redemption center Facebook pages.

Delaware County Sheriff's Office arrested 28 year old Kenneth Dillman of Stamford for Aggravated Unlicensed Operator of a Motor Vehicle and Operation of a Motor Vehicle with an Ignition Interlock device following a traffic stop in the Town of Harpersfield. Deputies observed Dillmann operating a motor vehicle, they knew that Dillmann had 22 suspensions on his revoked license, A traffic stop was conducted, Dillmann was charged & was issued traffic tickets and Appearance Tickets for Town of Harpersfield Court at a later date.

A.M. NEWS WEDNESDAY 3-13-24

State Comptroller’s Office announced that 2 Otsego County area businessmen have been indicted for a $1 million Medicaid transportation fraud scheme. 46-year-old Philip Mtui and 47-year-old Mbaga Kaiza were partners in Phinaliz Communications, they allegedly sought and received payments for rides that did not actually happen and billed multiple times for rides that did occur. This resulted in $1 million being stolen from Medicaid, they were charged with 1st Degree Grand Larceny & they face court action on May 6.

P.M. NEWS THURSDAY 2-29-24

NYSEG reports that the number of power outages in the WCDO listening area this afternoon was down to around 250, down from about 850 this morning, all attributed to the high winds that came through the region last night. NYSEG crews hopes to have all the power restored shortly.

Chenango County Sheriff’s Office arrested Sabrina Johnson of Oswego County for 2nd degree Burglary, Attempted Grand Larceny, Criminal Mischief & Conspiracy, last November, the Chenango County Sheriff’s Office Road Patrol Division received a Burglary complaint in New Berlin, the investigation found that Johnson and a co-defendant caused damage while burglarizing a residence, stole items from within the residence, and attempted to steal a car. Johnson was located at the Town of New Berlin Court and was taken into custody without incident, she was arraigned and was remanded to the Chenango County Correctional Facility on cash bail, she will return to Town of New Berlin Court at a later date.

State Lawmakers approved the new Congressional redistricting maps on Wednesday in Albany. The maps were said to be very similar to the maps used in the 2022 elections with only a few changes.

The New York State Department of Taxation and Finance reminds seniors that, for most localities, the deadline to apply for greater property tax savings through the Enhanced STAR property tax exemption is March 1. Basic STAR exemption recipients who turn 65 this year and meet the eligibility requirements should apply to their assessor for the Enhanced STAR exemption. For more information go to tax.ny.gov.

Attorney General Letitia James is leading an investigation into the February 22 AT&T outage that left many customers without service for up to 12 hours nationwide. New Yorkers affected by the service outage are encouraged to file a complaint online at att.com.

A.M. NEWS THURSDAY 2-29-24

Bainbridge Chamber of Commerce is holding a follow up meeting tonight as a follow up to the “Re-Unite Bainbridge” meeting of a few years ago, Bainbridge Chamber President John Payne explains:

(John Payne 2-29-24)

Payne said that the meeting will be at 6:00 PM in the Bainbridge Town Hall Theater and the public is invited.

P.M. NEWS FRIDAY 2-23-24

Craig Ross Jr. pleaded guilty Wednesday to 1st-degree kidnapping and predatory sexual assault of a child, according to the Saratoga County district attorney, and faces 47 years to life in prison. Ross abducted 9 year old Charlotte Sena on September 30th from Moreau Lake State Park, as she was riding her bicycle while picnicking with her family, she disappeared and a search led to Ross 2 days later when state police troopers and an FBI SWAT team stormed a camper Ross was staying in. Rescuers found the girl alive in a cabinet. The guilty plea comes prior to a trial that was scheduled in April, Ross will be sentenced on April 17.

A.M. NEWS FRIDAY 2-23-24

The case of Ganesh "Remy" Ramsaran of New Berlin will go national tonight on NBC's Dateline. Ramsaran pleaded guilty last year to a reduced charge of Manslaughter fro the 2012 killing of his wife Jennifer Ramsaran. NBC Dateline will devote 2 hours of airtime to the the case entitled “The Perfect Life,” at 9:00 PM, More information and a preview for the episode can be found at nbcnews.com.

Local Photographer Ron Sager will have an exhibit & discussion of his photography at the Sidney Library Saturday from 2:00 to 4:00 PM, he told WCDO News about this exhibit:

(Ron Sager 2-23-24)

Sager will have another exhibit on March 2 at the 246 Main Street in Unadilla, with an exhibit & discussion specifically about Unadilla.

P.M. NEWS MONDAY 2-19-24

The Annual Goodyear Lake Polar Bear Jump was held Saturday and was a rousing success, according to organizer Brenda Waters:

(Brenda Waters 2-19-24)

Waters said that the money raised will go to help with the medical expenses of 12 area children with a variety of health issues, more information about their efforts can be found at pbjump.com.

The Coventry Fire Department's EMS unit is holding classes in the coming weeks, as they try to get more people involved, Spokesman Kyle Button told WCDO News that they have free classes coming up on March 17th for those interested in the basics of life saving techniques:

(Kyle Button 2-19-24)

Button said that there is also a basic course for training to be an EMT, that will be held this Saturday, both session will be held at the Coventry Fire Department on State Route 206, more information is available at coventryems.org or by calling 607-656-4060.

The case of Ganesh "Remy" Ramsaran will go national this Friday Night on NBC's Dateline. Ramsaran pleaded guilty last year to a reduced charge of Manslaughter for the 2012 killing of his wife Jennifer Ramsaran. At 9:00 PM this Friday, NBC Dateline will devote 2 hours of airtime to the the case entitled “The Perfect Life,” More information and a preview for the episode can be found at nbcnews.com.

The Bainbridge Chamber of Commerce will hold their next meeting tomorrow morning at Bob's Diner. The meeting begins at 7:30 AM, members & Directors are urged to attend.

A.M. NEWS MONDAY 2-19-24

The Otsego County Sheriff’s Office arrested 43 year old Brian Boore of Oneonta following the investigation into a complaint at the Otsego County Correctional Facility. Boore was charged with 3rd & 4th degree Criminal Mischief, he is accused of intentionally damaging property at the Sheriff’s Office property, he was arrested and issued an appearance ticket returnable to the Town of Middlefield Court at a later date.

P.M. NEWS Tuesday 1-30-24

Jerell Thompson of Binghamton, pleaded guilty in Broome County Court to Attempted Criminal Possession of a Weapon. On December 23, 2023, Thompson was found to be in possession of a loaded Handgun after a traffic stop by State Police. Thompson will be sentenced to 5 years in New York State Prison and 5 years post-release supervision. Sentencing is scheduled for April 24, 2024, in Broome County Court.

Interconnect Wireless is up & running & is accepting customers for their new high speed internet services in Norwich & New Berlin, spokesman Terry Potter explains:

(Terry Potter 1-30-24)

Potter said that more information is available at intwireless.com or by calling 335-4492.

The Binghamton Rumble Ponies announced that Reid Brignac returns as manager, along with Pitching Coach AJ Sager, Hitting Coach Darin Everson, and Bench Coach Mariano Duncan. Juan Loyo joins the staff as the team's development coach. The Rumble Ponies made it to the Eastern League Championship Series in 2023, they open the 2024 at Mirabito Stadium against the New Hampshire Fisher Cats on Friday, April 5. Season Tickets and flex booklets are currently on sale at Mirabito Stadium, on the phone at (607)-722-FUNN, or on our website www.bingrp.com.

A.M. NEWS TUESDAY 1-30-24

Delaware County Sheriff's Deputies responded last Thursday to a domestic incident in progress in the Town of Meredith. Upon arrival one of the individuals involved was identified as 32- year-old Edward Reed of Meredith, a tinfoil containing a white powdery substance along with a scale was discovered within the residence, Deputies charged Reed with criminal possession of a controlled substance and criminal use of drug paraphernalia, . Reed was released on appearance tickets returnable at a later date to the Meredith Town Court.

The Guthrie Clinic will take over operations at Lourdes Hospital in Binghamton Thursday. The take over includes all of Lourdes facilities, including the new clinic at the Oakdale Commons, a new name for the facility will be announced Thursday.

The U.S. National Science Foundation has designated the New Energy New York Storage Engine as a Regional Innovation Engine, at Binghamton University. They will receive up to $15 million for 2 years and up to $160 million over 10 years to establish a hub that will accelerate the growth of the domestic battery industry.

P.M. NEWS MONDAY 1-29-24

The Otsego County Sheriff's Office arrested John Williams of Edmeston following an accident investigation on January 5th in Edmeston. Williams was charged with Criminal Possession of a controlled substance, DWI, DWAI, failure to keep right, Moving from lane unsafely, Leaving the scene of an accident with personal injury, Speed not reasonable and prudent, Williams was found in the Town of Pittsfield with a controlled substance later that day, he was issued an Appearance ticket

Utz Quality Foods issued a voluntary recall for Utz 2.75 ounce Wavy Original Potato Chips due to an undeclared milk allergen. The items in question had an expiration date is May 6, 2024. The recall was initiated after Utz learned that approximately 1,200 single-serve bags of the chips were flavored with seasoning instead of including the plain Utz Wavy Original Potato Chips, the chips were distributed to New York retailers only. No other Utz products are part of the recall. Consumers who purchased the recalled product may discard it and contact the Utz Customer Care team for a refund by email customerservice@utzsnacks.com; or by phone: 1-800-367-7629.

The annual Goodyear Lake Polar Bear Jump is coming up February 17th, with their annual auction to be held this Sunday at 12:30 at the Milford Central School. Brenda Waters & her husband Jamie have been organizing this event for 26 years, Brenda told WCDO News that they raised over $141,000 with last years event for area people with a variety of medical issues, and they hope to exceed that this year, starting with the auction:

(Brenda Waters 1-29-24)

Waters said that the Polar Bear Jump will be on February 17th at 12:30, the awards banquet will be held that evening at the Oneonta Elks club, all the information is available at pbjump.com.

A.M. NEWS MONDAY 1-29-24

State Police Bureau of Criminal Investigation arrested 69 year old Francesco Baio of New Berlin for Forcible Touching and Endangering the Welfare of a Child. An investigation revealed that on Sunday, January 21, Baio allegedly inappropriately touched a person under the age of 17. Baio was arrested and is due back at the New Berlin Town Court on February 14.

P.M. NEWS FRIDAY 1-19-24

35 year old Charles Harrison of Binghamton was sentenced Thursday to serve 48 months in federal prison following his trial and conviction for possessing a firearm as convicted felon. The trial evidence demonstrated that, following his 2012 conviction in a federal court for Conspiracy to Possess and Distribute controlled substances, Harrison was serving the final portion of his sentence at a halfway house in Connecticut, he escaped, resulting in a warrant being issued for his arrest, US Marshals found him in March 2022 hiding under a mattress in an apartment in Binghamton, Marshals also located a loaded handgun next to Harrison, the jury voted to convict him of possessing the firearm Harrison was sentenced to serve 3 years of supervised release to begin after his prison sentence.

Delaware County Sheriff's office arrested Thomas Taranto of South New Berlin for DWI, on State Highway 8 in the Town of Masonville. On January 11th, Deputies observed a vehicle traveling at 72 miles per hour in a 55 miles per hour zone, they performed a traffic stop & charged Taranto with driving while ability impaired by drugs, Speeding, obstructed plate, & Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance, Taranto released on the traffic tickets and an appearance ticket and is scheduled to appear in the Town of Masonville Court at a later date to answer the charges.

The Sidney Center Improvement Group annual meeting will be held this coming Monday, at 6:30pm at the Sidney Center Fire Hall. The meeting is open to the public and all are welcome to attend. The Improvement Group Board is seeking new members and more involvement in order to continue bringing programming, events and improvement projects to the Hamlet of Sidney Center and for the Town of Sidney.

There is still time for New Yorkers to Apply for the HEAP program, to get help in paying for heating bills this winter. Low-income New Yorkers must show Proof of residency, have recent pay stubs for all household members, along with Photo Identification for each household member, more information is available at ny.gov/services.

A.M. NEWS Friday 1-19-23

Delaware County District Attorney's Office announced that 25 year old Zachary Rowe of Harpursville appeared in Delaware County Court and pleaded guilty to Attempted Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance and Endangering the Welfare of a Child. Rowe appeared in Delaware County Court for a court conference on January 16th, he admitted that he possessed fentanyl in the Village of Sidney on October 1, 2023, and he intended to sell fentanyl, he also admitted to using drugs in close proximity to a child. Rowe was sentenced to a 5-year term of felony probation supervision, he must successfully complete the Delaware County Adult Treatment Program, if he does not successfully complete the program, he will be re-sentenced to 4 years in state prison and two years of post-release supervision.

The Norwich Theater Company will present 3 performances of "Always…Patsy Cline", featuring 27 of Patsy Cline's most famous songs at the Martin W. Kappel Theater in downtown Norwich, Mary Beth Miller of the Chenango Arts Council explains:

(Mary Beth Miller 1-19-24)

The Performances will be tonight & Saturday Night at 7:30PM & Sunday Afternoon at 2:00 PM, Tickets are available at the Chenango Arts Council office, at Service Pharmacy in Norwich, New Berlin, and Sherburne, or online at www.norwichtheatercompany.org.

P.M. NEWS WEDNESDAY 1-17-24

The Broome County Special Investigations Unit Task Force executed a search warrant Tuesday at 373 Prospect Street in the Town of Dickinson. Police arrested 39 year old Andrew Fuller of Binghamton for multiple counts of Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance & criminally using drug Paraphernalia and 45 year old Betty Hobbs of Binghamton for multiple Counts of Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance. Officers seized Methamphetamine, Suboxone, Oxycodone & other narcotics, ecstasy, cocaine scales & packaging materials, Fuller and Hobbs were transported to the Broome County Correctional facility for processing and arraignment.

The Workforce Development Board is offering a free virtual job fair on Tuesday, January 30, from 11:00am to 1:00pm, for all businesses and job seekers in several regional counties. More information for businesses looking to add to their staff, or job seekers, can be obtained at working-solutions.org.

AM NEWS WEDNESDAY 1-17-24

Chenango County Sheriff’s Office arrested 30 year old Mark Lamphear of New Berlin for Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance with Intent to Sell, Criminally Using Drug Paraphernalia, Driving While Ability Impaired by Alcohol and DWI. Deputies conducted a traffic stop in the Town of Norwich for a speeding violation. they found Lamphear to be in possession of methamphetamine, Hydrocodone, gun parts that pieced together a non-compliant AR-15 and a 30-round magazine, packaging material and had a large sum of cash. Lamphear was processed and released on an appearance ticket and is to appear in the Town of Norwich Court at a later date, Additional Weapons Charges are Pending**