WCDO Radio News

P.M. NEWS MONDAY 7-13-26
The American Red Cross is declaring an emergency blood shortage as the blood supply fell nearly 25% in June. The shortage is Especially serious for platelets and types O positive and B negative blood, American Red Cross Spokesperson Meg Rossman comments:

(Meg Rossman 7-13-26)

Appointments can be made with the Red Cross Blood Donor App, at RedCrossBlood.org or by calling 1-800-RED CROSS, a blood drive is being held in Sidney Tuesday from 1 pm. - 6 pm., at the American Legion Post 183, 22 Union Street.

The Chenango County Board of Supervisors invite the Chenango County Public to an Open House tomorrow at the Chenango County Office Building in Norwich, regarding the proposed new County Office building project. Board of Supervisors Chairman Jeffrey Blanchard explains:

(Jeffrey Blanchard 7-13-26

The Open House on Tuesday runs from 10:00 AM to 7:00 PM at 5 Court Street in Norwich, more information about the project is available at chenangocountyny.gov.

The State DOT advises motorists that the I-88 westbound Exit 20 on-ramp will be closed from Monday, July 20 through Friday, July 31, weather permitting, to accommodate for resurfacing work. The closure is part of an ongoing project to resurface I-88 between the Otsego County line and Exit 20. The project includes the installation of new guide-rail, The interstate will remain open and is currently restricted to one lane of travel in each direction, the ramp must be fully closed during this phase of work and motorists should follow the posted detour.

A.M. NEWS MONDAY 7-13-26
Oneonta Fire Department responded to a fire at 10 Luther Street Sunday morning at about 9:00 Am. all occupants escaped without injuries, there were no injuries to firefighters, the cause of the fire is under investigation, the structure was a total loss.

Otsego County Sheriff's Office arrested 25 year old Samuel Layton of New Lisbon, for 3 counts of Reckless Endangerment, following an investigation into a shots fired complaint in the Town of Exeter. Layton is accused of firing a semi-automatic rifle in the direction of an occupied residence with a family of 3 inside, resulting in a rifle round impacting through the residence, he was located, arrested, processed, and turned over to Otsego County Corrections pending Centralized Arraignment

P.M. NEWS MONDAY 7-6-26

The Gus Macker 3 on 3 Basketball Tournament hits the streets of Norwich this weekend, organizer Tom Revoir said that they still need some volunteers to help out:

(Tom Revoir 7-6-26)

Revoir said that those interested in volunteering should call the Norwich YMCA at 607-336-9622, extension 0 to sign up.

The Sidney Village Clerk's Office at the Sidney Civic Center is closed for emergency repairs, Mayor Ray Baker told WCDO News what the interim plans are:

(Ray Baker 7-6-26)

Village employees came to work this morning to find ceiling damage to the office, WCDO News will have updates regarding changes in schedule for the Village clerk's office when they are announced.

The Otego Fire Department is hosting The Otsego County Fire Fighters Convention this Thursday through Saturday with a variety of events, G.X. Cramatte is one of the organizers, he told WCDO News about Thursday's schedule;

(G.X. Cramatte 7-6-26)

The events continue at the site on fair Street in Otego Friday & Saturday from 12:00 noon each day into the evening hours, with Fireworks on Saturday night.

The Place in Norwich has signed a contract with the Chenango County Department of Social Services to run the Summer Youth Employment Program, a program of New York State's Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance. The Place will receive funds to make this program possible for Chenango County youth. The program runs today through July 31st, providing youth ages 14 to 20 years of age, from eligible households with valuable work experience and a paycheck. For more information, call 607-336-9696 x106 or x103.

A.M. NEWS MONDAY 7-6-26

State Police arrested 25 year old Hunter Lawrence of Auburn, New York, following an investigation into an inappropriate relationship with a minor. The investigation determined that Lawrence engaged in multiple sexual encounters with a victim under the age of 17 over an extended period of time. Lawrence is employed as a Deputy with the Cayuga County Sheriff’s Office. There are no allegations that the conduct occurred while he was on duty. Lawrence was charged with 4 counts of Rape, plus Endangering the Welfare of a Child, Lawrence was processed and transported to the Cortland County Jail for arraignment, The investigation remains ongoing.

Otsego County Sheriff's Office arrested 71 year old Debra Sanford of Garrattsville for 2 counts of Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance and Driving While Intoxicated following an investigation into a motor vehicle accident in the Town of New Lisbon, Sanford is accused of operating a motor vehicle under the influence of narcotics, and possessed 2 different illegal types of controlled substances on her person, she was ordered to appear in New Lisbon Town Court at a later date.

P.M. NEWS THURSDAY 5-7-26

The Binghamton Police Department & the Broome County District Attorney’s Office announced that after the death of 45 year old Peter Bennedum Friday at an area Hospital, the investigation is now being handled as a homicide. The 4 juveniles were previously charged with Attempted Murder in the 2nd degree, the charges have been amended to 2nd degree Murder, they are housed at a juvenile detention facility and are scheduled to appear in Broome County Court at a later date to be arraigned on the new charge. Additionally, the 13-year-old suspect was located and arrested at an address in Whitney Point, and has also been charged with 2nd degree Murder and was also sent to a juvenile detention facility in Syracuse, New York. This matter remains an ongoing investigation, Anyone with information is asked to contact the Binghamton Police Detective Bureau by phone at 607-772-7080.

Norwich City Police arrested 21 year old Brayden Pollock of Plymouth along with a Juvenile, in connection to the damage at Angelino Fields on Borden Avenue on May 2nd. Norwich Police determine that both individuals came in separate vehicles & damaged property, amounting to about $2,500 in damages. Both were charged with Criminal Mischief, Pollock was issued an appearance ticket for Norwich City Court, the juvenile was ordered to return to Youth Court at a later date.

A.M. NEWS THURSDAY 5-7-26

State Police arrested 19 year old Derick Danielsen of Laurens after a couple driving in Laurens saw Danielsen follow them in his vehicle into the town of Oneonta, they reported that Danielson was pointing a handgun at their vehicle. The couple drove to the State Police Barracks in Oneonta to report the incident. Troopers located Danielson and his vehicle in Laurens, Troopers seized cocaine, ecstasy, oxycodone pills, Xanax, fentanyl, 150 THC vape cartridges, cash & a number of loaded weapons, he was charged with Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance, Criminal Possession of a Weapon, and Menacing, he was processed & then transported to the Otsego County Jail for Arraignment.

2 American Red Cross Blood Drives are being held today, one in Garrattsville from 1:30 pm. - 5:30 pm., at the New Lisbon Town Hall, another in Sidney from 11 am. - 4 pm., at the Sidney High School, Book a time to give blood or platelets by visiting RedCrossBlood.org, calling 1-800-RED CROSS or by using the Red Cross Blood Donor App.

P.M. NEWS WEDNESDAY 2-18-26

State Comptroller Tom DiNapoli & the State Department of Financial Services announced the approval of the Butternut Valley Banking Development District as a participant in the Banking Development District program and deposited $35 million in New York State funds to Sidney Federal Credit Union’s new Morris Branch. SFCU Senior Vice President Andrew Smith said that it was a team effort with the Butternut Valley Alliance & State Officials to make this happen:

(Andrew Smith 2-18-26)

The Butternut Valley Alliance, local municipalities partnered with SFCU on the BDD application, Alliance Chairperson Maggie Brenner comments:

(Maggie Brenner 2-18-26)

The program supports the establishment of bank and credit union branches across the State where there is a demonstrated need for banking services, the new District covers the towns of Butternuts, New Lisbon, and Morris, and the villages of Gilbertsville and Morris.

The Delaware Valley Humane Society's Shelter Saviors fundraising efforts brought in a lot of money for the shelter recently, Shelter Director Erin Insinga told WCDO news how much was raised:

(ERIN Insinga 2-18-26)

The Shelter Saviors who matched the December donations were Alpine Roofing, Island Premium Printing, Forno Enterprises, McDowell & Walker, Lambrecht Auction, Oneonta Fence, Roasted Coffee House, & Deer-run Collectibles.

Progress is continuing with the Stewart's shops project in Sidney, Mayor Ray Baker told WCDO News when the previous Great American store should be torn down:

(RAY BAKER 2-18-26)

Mayor Baker also said that they are waiting on the state department of health to give approval for the water for the Clover Lane Development project, and they may get that approval at Thursday's Village Planning Board meeting.

A.M. NEWS Wednesday 2-18-26

4 Binghamton men who were arrested February 4th by the Broome County Sheriff’s Office on 11 felony weapons charges have been remanded to the Broome County Correctional Facility following an indictment filed by the Broome County District Attorney’s Office in Broome County Court. Samear Wallace, Johnathan Ayala, Isaiah Johnson, and Jahliek Walker-Coates, were charged with a total of 11 felony weapons charges following an investigation into gunshots fired in the Town of Dickinson, they were found to be in possession of 4 loaded ghost guns, one stolen and loaded handgun and six high-capacity ammunition feeding devices, including a 50-round drum magazine.

P.M. NEWS TUESDAY 2-3-26

The State DEC announced that on January 28th, in the Town of New Lisbon, Forest Rangers responded for a search for a missing 70-year-old after her husband called to report her missing. Otsego County Sheriff’s Deputies followed her tracks to Butternut Creek, A Forest Ranger Laymon went to County Route 12, where the road crosses the creek, and spotted the missing subject standing in a cornfield. Otsego County Emergency Medical Services transported the patient to Bassett Hospital.

Local government sales tax collections in New York state totaled $24.4 billion in calendar year 2025, an increase of 4.5%, or $1 billion, from 2024, according to a report released today by State Comptroller Tom DiNapoli. Aggregate county collections outside of New York City grew 4%, or $443 million, in 2025 compared to the previous year. 52 of 57 Counties experienced an increase in collections, Chenango County had the highest growth at 11.8%, followed by Yates, Hamilton and Delaware at 10.7%.

With the cold weather forecasted for this upcoming weekend, the Friends of Rogers Winter Living Celebration is RESCHEDULED and moving to February 14th from 11AM-3PM. The Rogers Center is located in Sherburne, more information is available at friendsofrogers.org.

A.M. NEWS Tuesday 2-3-26

The DCMO BOCES Board of Education proposed capital building project plan will be voted on today until 8:00 PM, by residents of all of the school districts associated with the Pole Campus in Norwich & the Harrold Campus in Trout Creek, and they will also vote on the purchase of the former Masonville Elementary School to house programs for students. BOCES District Superintendent Michael Rullo told WCDO News of the main reasons for the projects:

(Michael Rullo 11-4-25)

Rullo said that the BOCES buildings are over more than 50 years old, with the most recent renovations approved in 2005. The projects would start in March of 2027 and conclude in 2028, if approved by voters today.

P.M. NEWS Tuesday 1-6-26

Delaware County Deputies responded last July to an investigation in Town of Middletown involving a child, where it was determined that 36-year-old Ariel Devers of Middletown, had endangered the welfare of a child, in September an arrest warrant was issued for Devers by the Town of Middletown Court. On December 30th,Deputies were notified by the Delhi Police Department that Devers was in Delhi, they located, arrested and charged Devers on the warrant, Devers was turned over to the Delaware County Correctional Facility for arraignment.

State Police arrested 26 year old Jason Alicea of New York for Criminal Possession of Stolen Property, after a Trooper observed a speeding vehicle & initiated a traffic stop in Delhi. The Trooper learned that the vehicle was reported stolen to the New York City Police, Alicea was arrested, 2 dogs in the vehicle were turned over to a third party. Alicea was held at the Delaware County Jail for Arraignment.

U.S. Congressman Josh Riley announced the "Tractor Safety Act" which proposes to renew the National ROPS Rebate Program, which covers the cost of putting rollover protective structures on older tractors. The bill proposes to cap ROPS installations at $500, well below the usual cost, Riley's bill has bipartisan support, he hopes to see it pass into law shortly.

The Sidney Memorial Public Library is receiving a state grant to maintain accessibility in its building, by replacing an elevator, Sidney Library Director Patrick McGowan explains:

(Patrick McGowan 1-6-26)

McGowan said that the library hopes to award the bid next month and have the project beginning in the Spring & possibly completed by the end of June.

A.M. NEWS Tuesday 1-6-26

State Police arrested 25 year old Cagan Sodan of Greene after he was involved in a domestic dispute. State Police responded to a residence on English Lane in Greene, a Trooper encountered Sodan, who was uncooperative & attempted to grab the Trooper’s service weapon from its holster. The Trooper was able to restrain Sodan and take him into custody. Sodan did have an injury to his hand that he sustained from punching a window, prior to his encounter with the Trooper. The Trooper was not injured. Sodan has been charged with Attempted Robbery, Attempted Assault, Reckless Endangerment, Criminal Mischief & Obstructing Governmental Administration, he was transported to the Chenango County Jail for Centralized Arraignment where he was remanded until his next court date on January 8, 2026.

Otsego County Office of Emergency Services reported that the Garrattsville Fire Department and nearby departments responded to a structure fire at 436 Texas Road in New Lisbon. The house was fully involved, & was a total loss, several cats & a guinea pig were believed to have died in the blaze. One tanker responding to the blaze rolled onto its side in adverse weather conditions, no injuries at the fire or the accident were reported. The cause of the fire is being investigated.

P.M. NEWS MONDAY 12-29-25

The Norwich Fire Department responded to a structure fire at 102 Gilmore Lane just south of the Walmart Saturday Night at about 6:12 PM, Norwich Fire Chief Jan Papelino explains:

(Chief Jan Papelino 12-29-25)

Norwich Firefighters were assisted by the Oxford, North Norwich and Sherburne Fire Departments, Chenango County Office of Emergency Services, NYSEG, Norwich Water Department, Chenango County Sheriff's Office.

The Otsego County Sheriff’s Office arrested Joshua Sandell of New Lisbon following an investigation of a domestic dispute in the Town of New Lisbon. Sandell allegedly engaged in a physical domestic dispute while there were children present in the residence, he was held in the Otsego County Correctional Facility for Centralized Arraignment for Harassment & Endangering the Welfare of a minor.

The City of Oneonta announced that The Department of Public Works will be collecting Christmas trees beginning Monday, January 5th through the end of January 2026. Decorations, tinsel & electrical wires & bulbs should be removed.

A.M. NEWS MONDAY 12-29-25

Governor Hochul signed legislation that will require social media platforms to display labels warning of the dangerous impact certain features can have on young users’ mental health. The Legislation requires social media platforms that offer addictive feeds, auto play or infinite scroll to post warning labels on their platforms. Recent studies show that adolescents who spend more than 3 hours a day on social media face double the risk of anxiety and depression, About half claim that social media makes them feel worse about their bodies, and teenagers with the highest levels of social media use are nearly twice as likely to rate their overall mental health as poor or very poor.

P.M. NEWS THURSDAY 9-25-25

The Town of Guilford is hosting a fall Community Clean Out Event this Friday and Saturday, at the Guilford Town Highway Garage, 223 Marble Road, Guilford Town Supervisor Sue McIntyre explains:

(Sue McIntyre 9-25-25)

For assistance, contact the Guilford Trash Troopers ON FACEBOOK, more information is available by calling the Guilford Town Hall at 607-895-9966.

A total of 23 local governments in New York state were designated in fiscal stress for fiscal years ending in 2024, up from 14 a year ago, according to a report released from State Comptroller Thomas P. DiNapoli. These designations were based on the State Comptroller’s Fiscal Stress Monitoring System (FSMS) scores. None of the local Governments in the Tri-County region made the list this year, the full report can be found at osc.ny.gov.

The Eastern Broome Senior Center in Harpursville will hold their annual "Fun Fest & Open House" Friday from 9:00 AM to 6:30 PM. The event is open to the public & will feature raffles, door prizes, a bake sale, ice cream & entertainment, more information is available at 607-693-2069.

A.M. NEWS Thursday 9-25-25

Hospice & Palliative Care of Chenango County will hold their annual "Celebrity Dinner" tonight at the Canasawacta County Club, spokesperson Sarah Green explains:

(Sara Green 9-25-25)

The event begins at 6:00 PM tonight, more information about Hospice is available at chenangohospice.org.

The State DEC announced that small game hunting and furbearer trapping seasons for the 2025–26 license year are now open or will open soon across New York. Most small game and furbearer seasons open between Sept. 1 and Nov. 1, depending on species and zone. Full season dates, bag limits, and regulations are published in the 2025–26 Hunting & Trapping Regulations Guide at dec.ny.gov.

2 more American Red Cross Blood Drives will be held today, one in Garrattsville from 1:00 to 5:30 PM, at the New Lisbon Town Hall, 908 County Road 16, and another will be in ONEONTA from 12:00 to 5:00 PM at the State University of Oneonta, Hunt College Union, to make an appointment, visit RedCrossBlood.org, call 1-800-RED CROSS or use the Red Cross Blood Donor App.

P.M. NEWS FRIDAY 7-25-25

Norwich Police Detectives successfully concluded an investigation Wednesday into the distribution of counterfeit U.S. currency and the illegal sale and possession of controlled substances, including fentanyl and methamphetamine. Police arrested 34 year old Zachary England of Norwich, for 1 count of Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance with Intent to Sell, 18 counts of Criminal Possession of a Forged Instrument, plus Tampering with Physical Evidence among other charges, England was found in possession of $1,800 in cash upon arrest, along with fentanyl and methamphetamine. England was arraigned and was held without bail due to prior felony convictions, the investigation remains ongoing.

The Next in the series of educational programs for children by the Cullman Center in Sidney will be Ag Day this Sunday at Keith Clark Park in Sidney, Cullman Director Amy Williams explains:

(Amy Williams 7-25-25)

The event runs from 11:00 AM to 2:00 PM on Sunday.

A.M. NEWS FRIDAY 7-25-25

The Class of 2025 will be inducted into the National Baseball Hall of Fame this weekend in Cooperstown. Dick Allen, Dave Parker, CC Sabathia, Ichiro Suzuki and Billy Wagner will be enshrined, More than 50 Hall of Famers are expected to return to honor the newest members. The Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony will be held Sunday, at 1:30 p.m. on the grounds of the Clark Sports Center, The Induction Ceremony will be shown live on MLB Network, or at MLB.com.

An American Red Cross Blood Drive will be held today in Garrattsville from 1:00 to 5:30 PM at the New Lisbon Town Hall, another Blood Drive will be held tomorrow in Oneonta from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM at the Southside Mall - Oneonta YMCA, to donate blood, download the American Red Cross Blood Donor App, visit RedCrossBlood.org, call 1-800-RED CROSS.

P.M. NEWS MONDAY 5-12-25

Otsego County Sheriff's Office arrested 28 year old Ryan Oltjenbruns of Unadilla for 2nd 7 3rd Degree Assault, Harassment & Endangering the Welfare of a Child, following a domestic incident in the Town of Unadilla. Oltjenbruns allegedly engaged in a physical domestic dispute with a family member in the presence of a minor, by striking the victim in the face, causing serious injury. The victim was transported to Bassett Hospital and later to Albany Medical Center for additional medical treatment, Oltjenbruns was taken in to custody and processed at the Otsego County Sheriff’s Office, he was arraigned & was released on his own recognizance and issued an order of protection was issued on behalf of the the victim.

Otsego County Sheriff's Office arrested 33 year old Robert Harris of New Lisbon for 2 counts of Criminal Contempt Friday, following an investigation in to allegations of domestic violence in the Town of New Lisbon. Investigation revealed that during the month of February Harris located a family member at a residence in the Town of Pittsfield and placed the victim in fear for their life by brandishing a baseball bat, he violated a court order prohibiting him from contacting the victim. Harris was located in New Berlin and taken in to custody without incident, he was processed at the Otsego County Sheriff’s Office and turned over to correctional staff for Arraignment.

Delaware County Public Health, the New York National Guard and New York State Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services, is hosting a Citizen Preparedness Training Event on Wednesday, June 11th, Isabella Ziolkowski of Delaware County Public Health explains:

(Isabella Ziolkowski 5-12-25)

This event is free and open to the public. Each family that attends will receive a free preparedness kit. Registration is required to attend, call Delaware County Public Health at 607-832-5200. The event will be held from 6:00PM – 7:30PM at the New Hope Community Church, 45 Stockton Avenue, Walton.

A.M. NEWS Monday 5-12-25

54 year old Jason Burress of Bainbridge appeared in Delaware County Court last week & was sentenced to 6 months in jail. Sidney Police initiated a traffic stop in Sidney on July 11, 2024, Burress was believed to be impaired by drugs, lab test showed that Burress was impaired by methamphetamine. Burress pleaded guilty in April to Driving While Ability Impaired by Drugs, he will serve his term at the Delaware County Correctional Facility.

P.M. NEWS FRIDAY 1-24-25

A Delaware County Grand Jury returned a 2-count indictment against 36 year old Benjamin Combes of New Lisbon, for Course of Sexual Conduct Against a Child, & Predator Sexual Assault against a child. Combes is accused of engaging in acts of sexual conduct against a child less than 13 years old, he faces up to 25 years in prison and 20 years of post-release supervision, Combes is currently incarcerated in Otsego County for unrelated charges. He is scheduled to be transported to Delaware County Court for arraignment on January 28th. .

A.M. NEWS FRIDAY 1-24-25

State Police executed a search warrant at a property on Mudge King Road in the town of North Norwich Wednesday night as part of an investigation into possible animal neglect. Over 4 dozen animals were removed, including 30 horses, all animals were all in need of medical care & were taken to various animal rescue locations around the region, Police located multiple deceased animals on the property. The landowners are cooperating with State Police, who were assisted by the Chenango County Sheriff’s Office, Chenango County Office of Emergency Management, the Susquehanna SPCA, Chenango County SPCA, and numerous animal care professionals and advocates. The investigation is on-going.

The Environmental Facilities Corporation Board of Directors approved $273 million in financial assistance for water infrastructure improvement projects across New York State. Locally, Funding was approved for the City of Norwich for $4 million in grant and interest-free financing for the planning, design, and construction of wastewater treatment plant upgrades, the Village of Sherburne receives $3.7 million grant for the planning, design, and construction of wastewater treatment plant upgrades.

Various Law Enforcement Officials in Broome County joined with the Lindsey family, to express their opposition to the potential parole of James Wales, the convicted murderer of 12-year-old Cheri Lindsey in 1984. Wales was convicted for rape and murder, he has been denied parole 5 times since becoming eligible in 2017, he is scheduled for consideration by the New York State Parole Board.

The Oneonta Rotary & the Otsego County Department of Health announced the installation of 5 new Narcan Boxes throughout the county as part of its ongoing efforts to combat the opioid epidemic. The vending machines are located in Cherry Valley, Edmeston, Cooperstown, and Richfield Springs, the Oneonta Narcan Box is located at the Elm Park Methodist Church.

P.M. NEWS FRIDAY 12-27-24

Otsego County Sheriff's Office arrested 42 year old Christopher Devins of Milford, for Sex Offender Failure to Report Change in Status, following an investigation in to a report of a Registered Sex Offender operating a Facebook account not listed on his sex offender registry, and doing so under a false name. Additionally, Devins was found to have prior convictions of violations of the sex offender registry, he was located by deputies at his residence in the Town of Milford and taken in to custody without incident, he was processed and turned over to corrections staff to await further court proceedings.

Otsego County Sheriff's Office arrested 36 year old Benjamin Combes of New Lisbon on 38 counts of Criminal Contempt. The Investigation revealed that Combes contacted the protected party of an order of protection 38 times while incarcerated in the Otsego County Correctional Facility. Combes was processed and returned to the Otsego County Correctional Facility to await further court proceedings.

The United Way of Mid Rural New York Campaign Ends, & they are seeking donations to try to meet their annual goal. Donations help various programs, donations can be made online at uwmrny.org/Donate.

A 2025 Virtual Challenge hosted by the Bainbridge Glow Run will benefit former B-G Bobcat Apryl Mazepa, who has been battling cancer for 14 years and needs financial assistance to pay for medical expenses. The Virtual Run is online & starts January 1st and ends March 31st, Registration is free for kids under 18 and adults over 85, registration is available at runsignup.com/Race/NY/Bainbridge/MilesForTheMazepas.

A.M. NEWS FRIDAY 12-27-24

Governor Kathy Hochul signed legislation that requires large fossil fuel companies to pay for critical projects while creating a ‘Climate Superfund’ to support New York-based projects that bolster New York’s resiliency to climate impacts like flooding and extreme heat, it also closes a loophole that broadens laws against "Fracking" in New York State.

New York Farm Bureau announced that Governor Hochul signed 10 bills into law that were endorsed by them this year. 1 law authorizes the direct intrastate and interstate shipment of alcoholic beverages, which allows distilleries & cideries the same shipping privileges enjoyed by wineries and liquor stores, another Clarifies the law that requires each livestock and equine rescue facility to hold a Domestic Animal Health Permit and another Allows the DEC commissioner to enter into contracts for maple tree tapping and sap production on state lands, another new law allows for fresh produce from farms for incarcerated individuals.

P.M. NEWS TUESDAY 11-19-24

State Police responded at about 6:50 this morning to the report of a single vehicle crash on Broad Street in the village of Morris. An investigation at the scene determined that a 42-year-old male from Utica was operating an SYV when he crashed, he was pronounced deceased on scene. The roadway reopened shortly after 10:00 AM, the name of the deceased has not been released pending family notification.

The Clean Slate Act went into effect in New York State Saturday, which will automatically seal an individual’s New York State criminal records. The law states that Convictions under New York state law are eligible for sealing, Except for Sex crimes, Sexually violent offenses or class “A” felonies with the exception of drug-related convictions. The law does not apply to federal crimes or convictions in other states. For the record to be sealed, a specific period has to pass, 3 years for a misdemeanor & 8 years for a non”A” felony. The full law can be read at lawny.org.

State Police and Broome County Sheriff’s Deputies responded to a fire alarm and disturbance at an apartment located at 2708 North Street in Endicott Saturday. 46 year old Michael Stephens of Endicott is accused of intentionally starting the fire & for menacing troopers with a knife before retreating back into his apartment. Stephens suffered from smoke inhalation, 1 Trooper climbed a ladder and removed Stephens from the scene, he was taken to Wilson Hospital where he was treated & released, he was then charged with 2nd degree Arson & Menacing a police officer, he was taken to the Broome County Correctional Facility for Arraignment.

A.M. NEWS TUESDAY 11-19-24

New York City officials announced that they have elevated to a drought warning and paused the $2 billion Delaware Aqueduct Repair Project upstate, the reservoirs are expected to be re-opened to allow for more water to reach New York City, meanwhile the Statewide burn ban continues as wildfires continue to burn at more than a dozen locations, due to low water levels & exceedingly dry conditions. Various warnings have been released to conserve water because of drought-level conditions throughout the Catskill region and beyond.

Otsego County Sheriff's Office arrested 43 year old Andrew Vandusen of New Lisbon for 2nd degree assault & Menacing following an investigation involving a Domestic Incident that occurred in the Town of New Lisbon. VanDusen was held for arraignment at the Otsego County Correction Facility and is set to appear in court at a later date.

WCDO NEWS FRIDAY 10-25-24

Bassett Healthcare Network announced the elimination of around 100 positions, the majority were administrative. Patient care would not be affected by the layoffs, which represent 2% of their total workforce.

On Saturday "AK" McEwan Lomnicki has organized a Halloween Dog Costume Contest in Downtown Sidney, she told WCDO News about her event:

(AK 10-24-24)

A portion of the proceeds will benefit the Delaware Valley Humane Society, more information about animals up for adoption can be obtained by calling (607) 563-7780.

The New York State Veterans home is Oxford is hosting "Trunk Or Treat" Saturday where area children in costumes & their families can celebrate Halloween activities with the resident of the Vet's Home, Spokesman John Wiktor explains:

(John Wiktor 10-25-24)

More information is available at 607-843-3115.

2 More American Red Cross Blood Drives are being held today, 1 from 1:30 pm. - 5:30 pm., at the New Lisbon Town Hall, another in Oneonta from 12:30 pm. - 6 pm., at the Elm Park Methodist Church, to schedule an appointment, download the American Red Cross Blood Donor App, visit RedCrossBlood.org, call 1-800-RED CROSS.

P.M. NEWS MONDAY 10-7-24

Otsego County Sheriff's office arrested 33 year old Schuyler Schmidt of Garratsville following an investigation of a structure fire in the Town of New Lisbon. Schmidt was charged with Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance, Arson, Criminal Mischief in connection with a structure fire of a garage owned by a relative, multiple area Fire Departments responded, investigators located approximately thirteen vehicles & Machinery sustained significant damage or had become a total loss. Upon Arrested, Schmidt allegedly possessed methamphetamine, he was held at the Otsego County Correctional Facility pending arraignment.

Governor Kathy Hochul today extended the application deadline for homeowners to apply for emergency repair grants for the July and August 2024 extreme weather events across the state. Funds are available to eligible homeowners flood or insurance coverage or other forms of disaster recovery funds insufficient. Locally Delaware County Residents who had damage from the severe weather of August 9th & 10th are eligible, more information on the program, is available on HCR’s website: hcr.ny.gov. The application deadline has now been extended to Friday, November 8.

A.M. NEWS MONDAY 9-7-24

52 year old Shannon Finch of Margaretville was indicted by the Delaware County Grand Jury & was charged with Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance. The indictment alleges that on May 5 in a hotel room in Fleischmanns, Finch, possessed methamphetamine, he was previously arraigned in the Town of Middletown Town Court where he was released on his own recognizance, he faces up to 5 1/2 years in state prison and 2 years of post-release supervision if convicted.

19 year old Lamont Weaver of Binghamton, and an 18-year-old adolescent offender from Binghamton, pleaded guilty to Criminal Possession of a Weapon in Broome County Court. On April 27th, Weaver was involved in a shooting in Binghamton, at sentencing on October 25, 2024, Weaver is expected to receive a sentence of up to 8 years in New York State Prison, along with up to 5 years of post-release supervision. On August 18th, the adolescent offender was involved in shooting in Binghamton, firing several rounds at people during a dispute. the adolescent faces 6 years in State Prison, followed by 5 years of post-release supervision.

The Oneonta Job Corp will be holding an open house today to recruit new students, Business Engagement Specialist Jocelyn Plows comments:

(Jocelyn Plows 9-26-24)

The Open House will be at their location at 21 Homer Folks Avenue in Oneonta, from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM, more information is available at 431-1507.

2 more American Red Cross Blood Drives are being held today, 1 from 11:30 am. - 5:30 pm., at the South Kortright Central School, another from 1 pm. - 6 pm., at the New Lisbon Town Hall, appointments can be made at RedCrossBlood.org, 1-800-RED CROSS or use the Red Cross Blood Donor App.

P.M. NEWS TUESDAY 7-23-24

State Police responded at about 5:00 AM today to State Highway 7 in Oneonta for a report of a pedestrian struck by a vehicle. A preliminary investigation indicates that 40 year old Amber Joy of Oneonta was walking in the roadway and was struck by a vehicle, she did not survive. The crash remains under investigation, the operator of the vehicle has been cooperative with Investigators. The roadway was reopened just before 9:30 am.

State Department of Labor today released preliminary local area unemployment rates for June 2024. The State’s seasonally adjusted unemployment rate held steady at 4.2% in June 2024. Locally, Chenango County had 3.1% unemployment, Delaware County 3.9% & Otsego County 3.8% in June.

A.M. NEWS Tuesday 7-23-24

The National Weather Service has confirmed that storm damage in Lee in Oneida County is consistent with a tornado., as they continue to survey damage in recent weeks across several upstate counties. The total count of tornadoes in New York for July has reached 20.

An American Red Cross Blood Drive will be held in Garrattsville today from 1:00 to 6:00 PM at the New Lisbon Town Hall, at 908 County Road 16, Appointments can be made with the Red Cross Blood Donor App, visit RedCrossBlood.org, call 1-800-RED CROSS.

P.M. NEWS THURSDAY 7-18-24

NYSEG reports that about 440 customers are without power this afternoon in the WCDO Listening area, as crews continue to work to restore power after several thunderstorms whipped through the region this week.

Chenango County Office of Emergency Services announced that Dry Ice and Bottled Water are still available for residents affected by this week's storms, at the South Otselic Fire Station today until 8:00 pm.

Otsego County Sheriff's Office arrested 40 year old Fredrick Canfield of New Lisbon following an investigation in the Town of Pittsfield. Canfield was charged with several counts of Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance, Aggravated Unlicensed Operation of a motor vehicle, as well as several other related charges. Deputies were conducting traffic enforcement on June 23rd and observed a vehicle with switched license plates, they attempted a traffic stop, Canfield failed to stop and pulled into the driveway of a residence & fled inside, A quantity of Methamphetamine and Cocaine was located, deputies learned that Canfield was on Parole and residing at an unregistered address. Canfield was apprehended last week, in the Town of Pittsfield, he was taken into custody & is being held at the Otsego County Jail.

49 year old Demetrius Armstrong of Binghamton, pleaded guilty to Burglary in Broome County Court Wednesday. On September 7, 2023 Armstrong broke into a residence in the City of Binghamton with the intent to steal items and was found inside of the residence by the Binghamton Police Department. Armstrong is scheduled to appear back in court for sentencing this October, he faces between 5 and 15 years in State Prison followed by 5 years post-release supervision.

A.M. NEWS THURSDAY 7-18-24

NYSEG is reporting that just under 1000 customers were without power this morning following 3 days of thunderstorm across the region, they are working to restore power as quickly as possible.

P.M. NEWS FRIDAY 6-7-24

State Police responded Thursday at about 11:45 AM to a motorcycle and a utility truck crash on Bert Washburn Road in the town of Otego. An investigation revealed that a utility truck was parked and unoccupied when 39 year old Robert Burns of Otego lost control of his motorcycle and slid into the front of the utility truck. He was thrown from the motorcycle and was located underneath the truck. Troopers, Otego EMS and Otego Fire rendered aid to Burns, but he was pronounced deceased on scene. The investigation is ongoing.

Butternut Valley Alliance will hold its annual “On the Trail of Art” Festival Saturday & Sunday at the Texas Schoolhouse State Forest in New Lisbon. Butternut Valley Alliance Spokesperson Maggie Brenner explains:

(Maggie Brenner 6-7-24)

Admission to the event is free, more information or reservations can be found at butternutvalleyalliance.org.

Otsego County is accepting applications continuously for Correction Officers, at the County Correctional Facility. Interested Applicants should have Graduated from high school or possess a high school equivalency diploma, plus they should possess a New York State driver’s license they must pass a background investigation and psychological test, applications can be found at otsegocounty.com.

A.M. NEWS FRIDAY 6-7-24

The annual Airport Community Day will be held at the Eaton Airport in Norwich, this Saturday, Airport Administrator Shane Butler explains:

(Shane Butler 6-7-24)

The Show will be held Saturday from 8:00 AM to 2:00 PM

P.M. NEWS TUESDAY 6-4-24

State Police issued 10,949 tickets and arrested 225 people for DWI on Memorial Day weekend. The special enforcement period began on Friday, May 24, 2024, and ran through Monday, May 27th, in the Troop C Area, there were 770 total arrests, 11 for DWI, 192 for speeding & 234 violated the child restraint & seat belts laws.

Governor Kathy Hochul today announced the ratification of a three-year labor agreement with the Police Benevolent Association of New York State, which includes more than 1,100 members of the New York State Agency Police Services Unit in titles such as Forest Ranger, Environmental Conservation Officer, Park Patrol Officer and University Police Officer. The agreement, which runs until March 31, 2026, won the approval of 97 percent of PBA of New York State members who cast ballots.

Butternut Valley Alliance will hold its annual “On the Trail of Art” Festival Saturday & Sunday at the Texas Schoolhouse State Forest in New Lisbon. The trail will feature student artists from Edmeston, Gilbertsville-Mount Upton and Morris Central schools, Butternut Valley Alliance Spokesperson Maggie Brenner explains:

(Maggie Brenner 6-4-24)

Brenner said that Admission to the event is free, reservations & more information is available at Butternutvalleyalliance.org.

A.M. NEWS TUESDAY 6-4-24

20 year old Aidan Demorier of Johnson City, was sentenced to 1 1/3 to 4 years in prison for Bail Jumping in Delaware County Court. On April 1, 2022, Demorier failed to appear in court after being released on his own recognizance, On March 21, the Delaware County Grand Jury indicted Demorier, An arrest warrant was issued, and he was taken into custody & he pleaded guilty & was sentenced yesterday.

P.M. NEWS THURSDAY 9-28-23

37-year-old Justin Knapp was found guilty in Broome County Court for Criminal Possession of a Firearm and Tampering with Physical Evidence. On January 14, Knapp possessed an illegal .22 caliber pistol. While investigating an incident in the Town of Lisle, State Police attempted to stop a vehicle in which Knapp was a passenger in Newark Valley. The vehicle refused to stop, and a pursuit began, the car crashed, & Knapp was seen tossing something out of the window. With the help of a canine, troopers recovered the pistol later that day. Knapp faces sentencing at a later date.

The Rural Health Network of South Central New York will be hold a 25th anniversary celebration in October in Binghamton, Director of Resource Development Cindy martin told WCDO News about their services:

(Cindy Martin 9-28-23)

The celebration will be held October 16th at 5:00 PM at the Double Tree at the Hilton in Binghamton, tickets are available until October 6th, more information & tickets are available at rhnscny.org.

A.M. NEWS Thursday 9-28-23

Delaware County District Attorney's Office announced that 47 year old Russell Ellis of Hancock, was convicted of 3rd degree Assault, for assaulting a woman during an argument in Deposit in July. State Police responded to the incident and took Ellis into custody, he was later remanded to the Delaware County Correctional Facility. Ellis appeared in Hancock Village Court and pleaded guilty to Assault and was sentenced to time served and a 1-year conditional discharge, the Court also issued an Order of Protection in favor of the victim, he was ordered to pay a fine of $500, a surcharge of $205, a DNA fee of $50.00 and to provide a DNA sample for inclusion in the State DNA database.

American Red Cross continues to host blood drives, as supplies remain critically low. A drive will be held today from 1 pm. - 6 pm., at the New Lisbon Town Hall, & another will be held from 11:30 am. - 5:30 pm., at the South Kortright Central School, Appointments can be made with the Red Cross Blood Donor App, visiting RedCrossBlood.org or calling 1-800-RED CROSS.

P.M. NEWS TUESDAY 7-25-23

The Broome County provided an update on the progress of their new Criminal Investigations Unit at the Broome County Correctional Facility. The new unit consists of a supervisor and 2 full-time investigators, including a trained K9 handler that can search for drugs and various contraband inside the facility. The Unit has made 8 arrests resulting in 6 felonies and 3 misdemeanors, ranging from Promoting prison contraband to assault, to criminal mischief.

Delaware County Chamber of Commerce is seeking Nominations for their annual business awards, that will be presented at their annual dinner in October. Delaware County Chamber President Ray Pucci told WCDO news about the award categories:

(Ray Pucci 7-25-23)

Pucci said that all nominees must be Delaware County Chamber of Commerce members, Nominations may be submitted to by Email to info@DelawareCounty.org, the deadline to submit nominations is July 31, the annual Dinner will be October 18th in Delhi.

A.M. NEWS Tuesday 7-25-23

NYSEG reports that almost all of the power has been restored following yesterday's storms. downed trees at State Route 7 & The I-88 Access road in Unadilla were also cleared & the road was re-opened last night.

Commerce Chenango will host the 1st “Taste of Chenango” event on July 29 in Norwich, Commerce Chenango CEO Sal Testani told WCDO News that the number of vendors has been increasing for this Saturday's event at the Chenango County Fairgrounds:

(Sal Testani 7-25-23)

Testani said that musical acts Jason Wicks & The Nate Gross band will perform, the event will be from 1:00 o 7:00 PM on Saturday, more information is available at commercechenango.com or by calling 334-1400.

The American Red Cross will have 2 more Blood Drives today, one will be in Garrattsville from 1:00 to 6:00 PM at the New Lisbon Town Hall, another will be in Roxbury from 9:00 AM to 2:00 PM at the Carriage House at the Jay Gould Memorial Church, on Main Street, to make an appointment, download the American Red Cross Blood Donor App, visit RedCrossBlood.org, call 1-800-RED CROSS

P.M. NEWS THURSDAY 7-6-23

The Afton Fair is back with a variety of activities Friday through Sunday, according to Fair Spokesperson Rhonda Barriger:

(Rhonda Barriger 7-6-23)

More information about this year's Afton Fair can be found at theaftonfair.com.

State Comptroller Tom DiNapoli announced that the State Common Retirement Fund’s investment return was -4.14% for the state fiscal year that ended March 31, 2023. The Fund closed the year valued at $248.5 billion. The Fund had 44.14% of its assets invested in publicly traded equities, with the remaining assets invested in cash, bonds and mortgages, private equity & real estate.

A.M. NEWS THURSDAY 7-6-23

Delaware County Sheriff's Deputies were dispatched to a one car motor vehicle accident located on East Brook Road, in the Town of Hamden on June 14th. 48-year-old William Track of Delhi swerved to avoid a deer and drove over an embankment and into the stream causing his vehicle to become disabled. Track was taken to the hospital for his injuries.   Deputies arrested Track and charged him with driving while intoxicated, Consumption of Alcohol in a Motor vehicle, no seat belt and moved from lane unsafely, Track was released on uniformed traffic tickets and is to appear in the Town of Hamden Court on a later date to answer the charges.

The Otsego County Sheriff's Office arrested 31 year old Brittany Mumbulo of Edmeston following an investigation of a personal injury motor vehicle accident in the Town of New Lisbon. Mumbulo was charged with DWI, Operating M/V with BAC 0.08% or more, Open Container, Uninspected Motor Vehicle & Speed Not Reasonable and Prudent, she was air lifted to Albany Medical Center, she will appear in the Town of New Lisbon court at a later date.

P.M. NEWS MONDAY 11-28-22

19 year old Payton Gendron of Conklin pleaded guilty today to various charges, for the May shooting at the Buffalo TOPS Supermarket, killing 10 black people & injuring 3 others. Gendron pleaded guilty to murder, murder as a hate crime and hate-motivated domestic terrorism, which carries an automatic sentence of life without parole. Gendron admitted in court that he killed the people because of their race, he still faces federal charges relating to the same attack.

The Bainbridge American Legion VA Clinic will be closing on December 1st, & Area Veterans can go to the Binghamton VA Clinic at 203 Court Street, or the the new VA Clinic located at the Fox Care Center, in Oneonta. Peter Potter of the Stratton VA Center in Albany said that the new Oneonta location is a better alternative:

(Peter Potter 11-28-22)

Potter said that Veterans should contact the Bainbridge clinic by Thursday & let them know where to transfer their records,

The new "Bainbridge Athletics" will open this weekend at the site of the former Bainbridge Great American Store, owner Steve Cafasso told WCDO News what he has set up:

(Steve Cafasso 11-28-22)

The facility will open Saturday, more information is available at bainbridgeathletics.com.

A.M. NEWS MONDAY 11-28-22

Governor Kathy Hochul announced that more than $68 million has been awarded to support 74 projects across New York State through the Regional Economic Development Council initiative, The application for Empire State Development Grant funds remains open, and applications are being reviewed on an on-going basis until funds are exhausted, more information is available at apps.cio.ny.gov.

An American Red Cross Blood Drive will be held today from 1:00 to 6:00 PM at the New Lisbon Town Hall, appointment can be made by using the Red Cross Blood Donor App, visiting RedCrossBlood.org or calling 1-800-RED CROSS

P.M. NEWS Monday 11-7-22

Tomorrow is Election day, New Yorkers Statewide will be voting candidates to send to Washington, in the U.S. Senate seat currently occupied by Charles Schumer, he faces competition from Republican Joe Pinion & 3rd party candidate Diane Sare. Locally, voters in the 19th Congressional District will be choosing between a Republican Mark Molinaro of Duchess County, and Democrat Josh Riley of Tompkins county. Molinaro told WCDO News of his priorities:

(Marc Molinaro 11-7-22)

Riley told WCDO News about his position on some of the major issues:

(Josh Riley 11-7-22)

Polling places are open 6:00 AM to 9:00 PM

New York Voters are also going to be deciding on candidates to send to Albany tomorrow, for Governor, incumbent Democrat Kathy Hochul faces Republican Lee Zeldin; for Attorney General incumbent Democrat Letitia James seeks re-election against Republican Michael Henry & for State Comptroller, incumbent Democrat Tom DiNapoli faces a challenge from Republican Paul Rodriguez.

In Delaware County, there is an election for County Judge between current District Attorney John Hubbard on the Republican line & for the Democrats, Andrew Van Buren. Hubbard told WCDO News that one of the changes he would like to enact, if elected, would be better communication between the County & Local Courts:

(John Hubbard 11-7-22)

Van Buren told WCDO News that people should be aware that the judge will have to follow the rule of law, whether they approve of the law or not:

(Andrew Van Buren 11-7-22)

The winner replaces Richard Northrup, who has decided to retire after many years of service on the bench & in the District Attorney's office.

Voters in the town of Sidney will fill a seat on the town board, between Republican Paul Muratore & Democrat Kevin Greene. Muratore told WCDO News that he has been serving on the board & feels like he accomplished a lot in a short time:

(Paul Muratore 11-7-22)

Democrat Kevin Greene told WCDO News that he is running for town Board to fulfill potential he sees in the town of Sidney:

(Kevin Greene 11-7-22)

The seat is for one year only, and will be up for election again in November of 2023.

Local Area Voters will be deciding on who they should send to Albany in the State Senate & State Assembly. In 51st State Senate District, Incumbent Peter Oberacker faces Democratic Challenger Eric Ball. In State Assembly District 121, incumbent Republican Joe Angelino is unopposed. The new 101st District covers Otego, Laurens, Morris, & Franklin locally, the candidates are Democrat Matthew Mackey & Republican Brian Maher, in the new 122nd District, covering Oneonta, Milford, Hartwick, Burlington, & New Lisbon locally, Democrat Dan Butterman, Republican Brian Miller & Working Families Party candidate Colton Mennig are running for the seat.

Broome County officials are investigating the death of an inmate in the Broome County Jail on Friday. 30 year-old Mitchell Lindow of Binghamton was being held on a murder charge when he was found deceased by Corrections officers conducting a head count, an autopsy was conducted Friday, no cause of death was determined.

A.M. NEWS MONDAY 11-7-22

State Police announced that 9 people were arrested & drugs were seized after search warrants were executed at Budget Inn Motel on Route 23 Southside in the town of Oneonta Thursday & Friday. Items seized included methamphetamine, cocaine, heroin, fentanyl, crack cocaine, ecstasy, Suboxone strips & Packaging materials and scales, The investigation is on-going.

the Internal Revenue Service reports that some New Yorkers may be getting a 2nd stimulus check from the IRS. More than 9 million people may qualify to receive stimulus payments and tax credits, these are people who did not file a tax return because their income was too low. the deadline to file for the additional stimulus money is November 17th.

P.M. NEWS MONDAY 9-19-22

The Delaware County Sheriff’s Office is re-establishing its Law Enforcement Explorer’s Program and is now accepting applications. The program is designed for high school students ages 14-18 who are interested in learning more about law enforcement, Delaware County Sheriff Craig DuMond explains:

(Sheriff DuMond 9-19-22)

Sheriff DuMond said that applications or more information is available through Deputy Collin Roche at collin.roche@co.delaware.ny.us or at (607)-237-1641.

Governor Kathy Hochul today announced that more than 100 New York communities are now certified as Climate Smart Communities. Locally, the Town of New Lisbon in Otsego County was 1 of the 11 new municipalities, plus the town of Roseboom was 1 of 4 local governments that were re-certified by completing additional actions, more information is available at climatesmart.ny.gov.

The Bainbridge Chamber of Commerce will hold their next regular meeting tomorrow morning. The meeting will begin at 7:30 am at the back of Bob's Diner. Chamber members are encouraged to attend & participate.

A.M. NEWS MONDAY 9-19-22

The State DOT will hold a public hearing on Wednesday, September 28th at 5:30 pm. to discuss plans to enhance safety at 4 sites on State Route 8 in the towns of Columbus, New Berlin and Norwich. The proposed project will widen traffic lanes and shoulders, improve sight distances, reduce curvature in the roadway, The hearing will take place at the Unadilla Valley Central School Auditorium. More information is available at dot.ny.gov/Rt8Safety

P.M. NEWS THURSDAY 12-9-21

The Southern Tier Regional Economic Development Council has awarded the City of Norwich a 10-Million-Dollar grant for the revitalization of downtown Norwich. Commerce Chenango President & CEO Kerri Green commented about the award on WCDO this morning:

(Kerri Green 12-9-21)

Green said that the area that will benefit is about 1 mile long and a quarter-mile wide and is in the existing Business Improvement District in Norwich, the Norwich Proposal can be viewed by going to ny.gov, click on downtown revitalization initiative, go to round 5 winners & scroll to Southern Tier & click on Norwich & then view DRI Application.

Otsego County Sheriff's department arrested a County inmate Wednesday for assaulting a Corrections Officer and fleeing from custody during a Court appearance in the Town of New Lisbon yesterday afternoon. 27 year old John Clark was charged with Assault on Police Officer, 2nd degree Escape, 3rd degree Assault, Obstruction of Governmental Administration, Resisting Arrest & Harassment. Otsego County corrections officers were transporting Clark to a regularly scheduled court appearance when he fled from the custody of the corrections officers, a foot pursuit was initiated and a corrections officer attempted to take the defendant back in to custody. During a brief struggle, Clark caused the correction officer to sustain a hand fracture. Clark was returned back to the Otsego County Correctional Facility and will be processed at Otsego County Centralized Arraignment at a later time. The corrections officer was treated at Bassett Hospital and a return to work has not been established.

Bassett Healthcare Network announced today that in accordance with an executive order enacted by the New York State Department of Health on December 3, 2 of their hospitals; A.O. Fox Hospital in Oneonta & Little Falls Hospital, have been placed on a state-wide list of facilities that currently have occupancies of 90% or more. These facilities will limit non-essential elective procedures for the next 2 weeks.

The Delaware County Board of Supervisors has decided to name the Delaware County Department of Economic Development as the entity to promote tourism. Previously, tourism programs were run by the Delaware County Chamber of Commerce, through a contract with Blue Spark Creative Services of Delhi, Blue Spark is expected to continue its work through the Department of Economic Development.

A.M. News Thursday 12-9-21

Delaware County Public Health will hold a COVID 19 Vaccination Clinic at 97 Main Street in Delhi today. Johnson & Johnson vaccine-Walk-ins and Moderna 1st or 2nd shot Walk-ins will be held from 1:00 to 2:00 PM, Moderna boosters require Pre-registration, they can get the boosters between 2:00 to 400 PM, register at apps2.health.ny.gov/doh2, for more information, call Delaware County Public Health at 607-832-520

P.M NEWS MONDAY 11-15-21

State Police are warning residents to keep an eye out for people stealing packages out of mailboxes and off porches, following incidents that have been reported in the towns of Hartwick, Garrattsville and New Lisbon. Police said that today, 2 people were arrested and charged with Petty Larceny, Criminal Possession of Stolen Property and Conspiracy, arrested were 42 year old Karen Decarlo of Garrattsville and 41 year old Joshua Talbot of Garrattsville, after Troopers spotted them in a vehicle near mailboxes on State Highway 205 after receiving a complaint of a larceny from a mailbox. Decarlo and Talbot were arrested, processed then released on appearance tickets to the Hartwick Town Court on January 12th.

The Unadilla Historical Association & the Unadilla Chamber of Commerce will hold their Santa Saturday & Holiday Magic Parade on December 4th, Spokesperson Linda Bickos told WCDO what is scheduled:

(Linda Bickos 11-15-21)

More Information is available at the Unadilla Chamber of Commerce Facebook page.

A.M. NEWS MONDAY 11-15-21

New York State's COVID 19 numbers have been trending back up over the last week, after Test Results were reported Saturday. Over 156,000 were tested with 5078 testing positive, for a 3.25% positivity rate. Patient Hospitalization are back up over 1900, patients in an ICU bed was just under 400, and those on ventilators were back up to 216, there were 29 deaths in hospitals & nursing homes Saturday from COVID.

SUNY Broome admitted the Windsor High School’s entire Senior Class of 2022 to the college in the Windsor/SUNY Broome College Express Partnership event last Wednesday. Windsor Assistant Superintendent for Instruction Scott Beattie told WCDO News that this is the classic Win Win for all parties:

(Scott Beattie 11-12-21)

Beattie said that this was the 3rd year of the College Express Partnership, Windsor's Class of 2020 became the 1st full class in history to be immediately admitted to SUNY Broome.

P.M. NEWS MONDAY 9-13-21

State Police have arrested 7 people linked to a crime spree across 4 local counties.  In July, State Police arrested Christopher Youngs of the town of Maryland & John Clark of Morris in connection with multiple burglaries in Otsego, Delaware, Chenango and Madison counties.  State Police Investigators have lodged additional charges against Youngs and Clark, & they have also arrested 32 year old Joseph Santiago of Burlington Flats, 32 year old Charles Hall of Edmeston, 23 year old Kayla Van Pelt of Edmeston, 59 year old Henry Schmidt of Garratsville, 56 year old Samuel Madero of Morris, All 7 have been linked to over 40 cases between the State Police, local Sheriff’s departments and local police departments.  More charges are likely as investigators continue to work through the open cases.

The Spiedie Fest moves to the fall this year, with a full line up of musical acts at Otsiningo Park in Binghamton October 8th through the 10th, Organizer Dave Pessagno told WCDO News who they have lined up:

(Dave Pessagno 9-13-21)

Pessagno said that more acts will be announced in the coming weeks that will open for Country Artist Billy Currington on Saturday October 9th, all the updates will be posted at spiediefest.com.  Tickets are available at the Visions FCU Veterans Memorial Arena Mirabito Box Office, Ticketmaster, or the Johnson City Wegmans.

Hartwick College President Margaret Drugovich announced her Plans to Retire Sometime next summer.  Drugovich has led Hartwick College for 13 years, she received national news coverage for her program for an accelerated 3 Year Degree program; plus the development of 6 new undergraduate majors, a graduate-level program in Translational Biomedical Research Management, and soon, its Master of Science in Nursing Education and a Certificate of Advanced Study in Nursing Education and the development of Hartwick’s Center for Craft Food & Beverage program. The College’s Board of Trustees has initiated a formal search to choose Hartwick’s 11th president.

State Police arrested 22 year old Jessica Winans of Unadilla for the felony Aggravated Unlicensed Operation of a motor vehicle as well as Driving While Intoxicated, following an accident on September 6th.  Troopers were dispatched to a report of a vehicle that struck a tree on Plankenhorn Road in the town of Sidney.  Winans was the only person in the vehicle, she was transported to Wilson Hospital in Johnson City for the treatment of injuries to the face & ankle, and she was issued appearance tickets to the Sidney Town Court on September 23rd.

A.M. NEWS MONDAY 9-13-21

On the 20th anniversary of 9/11, Governor Kathy Hochul has proposed legislation that would allow National Guard members to qualify as veterans under New York State law. Governor Hochul has also issued a Citation honoring members of the New York National Guard for their service during and after the events 9/11.  Over 6,700 New York State National Guard members were called to serve in response to and recovery from the attack on September 11th 2001.

Governor Kathy Hochul today updated New Yorkers on the state's progress combating COVID-19.  Over 179,000 Test Results were Reported Saturday, the positivity rate has stayed steady at about 3% with over 5400 Positives, Patient Hospitalization decreased by 47 to 2,367, ICU patients remained at 519, the number on Ventilators decreased by 9 to 267, there were 29 Deaths reported.

The State Department of Transportation is advising motorists that State Route 51 will be closed just north of Walters Road in the Town of New Lisbon, today through October 4th, for a culvert replacement.  Motorists should follow posted detours utilizing County Routes 12, 14 and 16. All properties along State Route 51 will remain accessible to local traffic between the diversions and the closure.  Up-to-date travel information is available by calling 511, visit 511NY.org or download the free 511NY mobile app.

P.M. NEWS THURSDAY 6-17-21

Police in Cobleskill arrested 53 year old Raymond George for 1st degree manslaughter, for allegedly driving his vehicle into the Colonial Motel Tuesday, killing fellow Motel resident James Williams, following an argument.  Police reported that 2 dogs were also killed in the incident, 11 people were displaced due to the structural damage to the building.  George was arrested shortly after the incident nearby, Police determined that Williams had been sitting on a bench outside his room with his dogs, when he was struck; he was trapped in the wreckage and was pronounced dead at the scene. George was arraigned and ordered held without bail.  State Police, Schoharie County Sheriff's Department, the Schoharie County District Attorney’s Office and state corrections officials assisted with the investigation.

According to preliminary figures released today by the New York State Department of Labor, the number of private sector jobs in New York State increased over the month by 17,500, or 0.2%, to 7,459,100 in May 2021. By comparison, the number of private sector jobs in the U.S. increased by 0.4% in May 2021.  New York State's seasonally adjusted unemployment rate decreased from 8.2% to 7.8% in May 2021.

US Senator Kirsten Gillibrand introduced the Senior Financial Empowerment act, to try to streamline the reporting by seniors, of phone & Email scams designed to steal their personal financial information:

(Gillibrand 6-17-21)

Senator Gillibrand stated that Millions of seniors across the country are victims of financial scams and abuse every year, with scams related to COVID-19 alone costing consumers more than $460 million.  New York State seniors lose as much as $1.5 billion per year to financial fraud and abuse.

Otsego County Sheriff's Office arrested 32 year old Joseph Santiago of Burlington following a traffic stop in the Town of Burlington on June 7th.   Santiago was charged with Criminal Possession of a Hypodermic Instrument & Criminal Possession Controlled Substance.  The Investigation revealed that Santiago, who was a passenger in the stopped vehicle, was wanted on an active bench warrant issued out of the Town of New Lisbon court, he was found to be in possession of numerous narcotics during the stop.  Santiago was remanded to the Otsego County Correctional Facility on the bench warrant; he faces action in Town of Burlington court June 21st.

The Binghamton Rumble Ponies return to Binghamton to play a 4 game homestand starting tonight against Portland, at the newly renamed Mirabito Stadium.  Team General Manager J.B. Bayne told WCDO News that the COVID guidelines have been changed, and fans can come out to the games like they did before the Pandemic.

(J.B. Bayne 6-17-21)

Information about the team's schedule, ticket prices, promotions & roster are available at BINGRP.com.

A.M. NEWS THURSDAY 6-17-21

Frontier Communications reported 2 work vans missing from their property at 2 Oak Avenue in the Village of Sidney on Monday; the vans were recovered Tuesday in a wooded area outside the village.  Sidney Police Department, Delaware County Sheriff’s Office and State Police executed a search warrant of 5 Division Street in Sidney Wednesday; they arrested 47 year old Brian Kingsbury of Sidney & 24 year old Nikita Crumb of Sidney for Criminal Possession of Stolen Property.  Both were arraigned in the Village of Sidney court, Crumb was released on her own recognizance to appear back in court at a later date, Kingsbury was remanded to the Delaware County Jail. The investigation is on-going and more arrests are expected.

Afton Fire fighters responded to a Commercial Building Fire at 175 Main Street last night, at the new Gavin's Pizza location that opened earlier that day.  Afton received assistance from Harpursville, Masonville, Bainbridge & Coventry.  Fire was located in the wall of the building, & was knocked down quickly; Mike Gavin told WCDO News that he hopes to be re-opening sometime next week.

The Village of Sidney announced that the water will be shut off today from about 7:00 AM to 12:00 Noon on West Main Street between Sunset Avenue & Circle Drive.  Crews will be installing a new Water valve in that area at that time.