WCDO Radio News

P.M. NEWS THURSDAY 3-19-26

46 year old Arthur Cotten of Sidney, pleaded guilty to Reckless Endangerment & resisting Arrest in Delaware County Court, he was appearing for a conference on a pending indictment, he decided to pleaded guilty to the charges, relating to an incident on July 19, 2025, in the Village of Sidney, where he attempted to light himself on fire with gasoline in a garage near a propane tank, Sidney Police Officers Royce Terry and Jenna Nordberg, managed to get the fire extinguished without any person or property being seriously harmed. Cotten will be sentenced on April 28th

31 year old Mathew Hall of Columbia, South Carolina, was sentenced in Broome County to 10 years in state prison, followed by 10 years of post-release supervision, and will be required to register as a sex offender, and a no-contact order of protection was issued for the victim. Hall was found guilty of rape after a Jury Trial in December from a sexual assault that occurred in the City of Binghamton in October 2024, where Hall engaged in sexual contact with a person who was incapable of consent due to being physically helpless.

Another former corrections officer has pleaded guilty in the case connected to the beating death of Marcy Correctional Facility inmate Robert Brooks in December of 2024. Robert Kessler entered his plea in Oneida County Court, to a gang assault charge as part of a plea bargain deal in which he testified against his former colleagues David Kingsley, Nicholas Kieffer and Mathew Galliher. Kessler is scheduled to be sentenced to 4 years in State prison on May 14th.

The Norwich St. Baldrick's event last Saturday raised $65,715, with Donations still coming in, contributions will be accepted until the end of the year online. The amount raised broke last year's record of over $63,000. More information is available at stbaldricks.org.

State Comptroller Tom DiNapoli announced that 7 villages were designated in fiscal stress under his office's Fiscal Stress Monitoring System for their fiscal year ending in 2025. DiNapoli's office evaluates municipalities & school district each year for fiscal stress, no villages in the Tri-County Region were on the list this year. The report can be found at osc.ny.gov.

A.M. NEWS Thursday 3-19-26

Delaware County DA Shawn Smith announced that the Appellate Division of the New York State Supreme Court affirmed the Delaware County County Court conviction of Joshua Condon that resulted in a 20 year prison term & 10 years old post release supervision. Condon appealed the sentence for Criminal Sexual Act for abusing an 8 year old child, but after losing the appeal, Condon's original sentence will stand.

37 year old Michael Brutvan of Binghamton, pleaded guilty to Murder in the Second Degree in Broome County Court and will serve a sentence of 17 Years to Life in a New York State Correctional Facility. On May 13, 2025, the Binghamton Police Department was dispatched to the Salvation Army located at 131 Washington Street for a report of a stabbing. Upon arrival, officers located a male inside the establishment suffering from stab wounds to the shoulder and neck. The victim was later pronounced deceased. Sentencing is scheduled for June 22, 2026, in Broome County Court.

Attorney General Letitia James today joined a coalition of 7 other attorneys general in suing to stop the merger of Nexstar Media Group and Tegna, 2 of the biggest owners of local television stations in the nation. The proposed merger would create the largest broadcast station group in the country and consolidate ownership of popular local television stations in media markets across the nation, the coalition argues that this merger would be illegal, could raise costs for consumers, and would degrade the quality of local news. The lawsuit seeks a court order declaring the merger illegal and preventing it from being completed.

The Competition will begin today from 6:00 to 10:00 PM for those interested in singing at the Southern Tier Music Fest on July 4th at the Sidney Airport, Festival Co-organizer Jake Cotten explains:

(Jake Cotten 3-19-26)

Entry forms for the competition can be found on the Northern Star Facebook page or at Southern Tier Music Fest.com, the music festival will be held on July 4th at the Sidney Airport headlined by Jackson Dean.

Hospice & Palliative Care of Chenango and the New York State Veterans Home at Oxford recently finalized a long-awaited partnership which now allows residents of the home and their families to receive hospice care from the nurses and volunteers of the organization. Executive Director Kendall Johnson of Hospice & Palliative Care of Chenango told WCDO news about the partnership:

(Kendall Johnson 3-13-26)

Johnson said that the contract was signed in January & Hospice has already served clients at the Vets home in Oxford. More information about Hospice & Palliative Care of Chenango County can be obtained by calling 607-334-3556.

The final two weekends in March have been designated as New York State Maple Weekends, & the making maple syrup will be highlighted this year at Rogers Environmental Center during their Maple Magic Weekend Celebration in Sherburne on Saturday, March 28 and Sunday, March 29, from 12PM-3PM on both days. The evaporator will be boiling in the Sugarshack, which will be open for syrup samples and educational demonstrations, The event will also feature live music, the Rogers Center is one of the state's 4 environmental education centers, at 2721 state highway 80, Sherburne.

A.M. NEWS FRIDAY 3-13-26

The Annual St. Baldrick's head shaving fundraising event will be held at the Canasawacta Country Club in Norwich, Saturday from 1:00 to 4:00 PM, the annual event raises funds for the St. Baldrick's Foundation in their effort to find a cure for cancer through research. More information is available at stbaldricks.org/events/norwich2026.

Fenimore Farm & Country Village in Cooperstown will have the next of their “Sugaring Off Sundays” event this Sunday from 8:30 am - 1:00 pm, spokesperson Kerri Green explains:

(Kerri Green 3-13-26)

More information about Sugaring Off Sunday all this month, and other events can be found at fenimorefarm.org.

The New York State Burn Ban will be in effect starting Monday until May 14th, The law stipulates that there will be no Burning of brush of debris in order to prevent wildfires or grass-fires from spreading during the driest time of the year.

P.M. NEWS MONDAY 3-18-24

The Norwich St. Baldricks head shaving fundraiser for the battle against Childhood Cancers, broke last year's record Saturday, spokesman Zachary Wentworth explains:

(Zachary Wentworth 3-18-24)

More information about the St. Baldricks efforts are available on the charity's website at stbaldricks.org.

Restore New York funding is now available for projects involving the demolition, deconstruction, rehabilitation, and/or reconstruction of vacant, abandoned, condemned, and surplus properties. The Intent to Apply Form is due Monday March 25, Priority is given to projects in Empire Zones and Brownfield Opportunity Areas, as well as to projects that leverage other state or federal redevelopment, remediation, or planning programs. There is also a strong emphasis placed on projects from economically distressed communities. More information is available at esd.ny.gov.

The Binghamton Rumble Ponies Season will be getting underway shortly with the home opener to be held on April 5th at Mirabito Stadium against the New Hampshire Fisher cats at 6:35 PM. Tickets for that game & all other home games are available at milb.com/binghamton/tickets.

The Next Bainbridge Chamber of Commerce will be held tomorrow morning. The meeting will be held at 7:30 am at the back of Bob's Diner.

A.M. NEWS MONDAY 3-18-24

The Chenango County Sheriff's Office announced that on Sunday, a reported missing person, 38 year old Nicholas Andrews of Preston was found deceased from injuries related to an ATV accident, in the Town of Preston area. Andrews was reported missing on March 14, after he had left his residence at approximately 6 PM on a white Polaris 4 wheeler. The Chenango County Sheriff's Office was assisted by the Forest Rangers, State Search and Rescue Federation, and the Oxford Fire Department.

State Police were dispatched early Saturday morning to 162 Tim Hill Road in Marathon, Upon arrival, the Troopers determined that the 54-year-old male was suffering a mental health crisis and was in possession of a gun, while the Troopers were making contact with the man, he pointed the gun toward the Troopers. The man was shot by a Trooper and was immediately rendered medical care. No one else was injured. The male was transported by ambulance to Wilson Hospital where he remains in critical but stable condition. This is an on-going investigation, No names or other details have been released.

Otsego County Sheriff's Office arrested 31 year old Carmine Yonnone of Delhi Friday following a traffic stop in the Town of Oneonta. Yonnone was charged with Aggravated Unlicensed Operation, Consumption of Alcohol in a motor vehicle, among other charges, he was also found to have a Suspended Driver’s License, was was issued appearance tickets for a court appearance at a later date.

Otsego County Sheriff's Office arrested 47 year old Albert Deas of Schenevus following a traffic stop in the Town of Maryland. Deas was charged with Aggravated Unlicensed Operation, speeding and operating an uninspected vehicle, he was issued uniform traffic tickets and is set to appear in court at a later date.

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,

Delaware County Sheriff's Office arrested a current Delaware County Inmate. Last Friday, Investigators of the Delaware County Sheriff’s Office received information that 48-year-old Deanna Besser of Brooklyn was a fugitive from the State of Pennsylvania, with outstanding warrants for failure to appear on a total of 16 separate charges not related to the Delaware County charges. At the conclusion of their investigation, Sheriff’s Investigators arrested Besser on a Fugitive from Justice complaint. Besser was later arraigned at the Delaware County CAP court and was remanded back to the Delaware County Correctional Facility pending extradition back to the State of Pennsylvania.

Governor Kathy Hochul today announced recommendations by the State Board for Historic Preservation to add 15 properties to the State and National Registers of Historic Places. Locally the house at 120 Balcom Road, in Mount Vision built in 1810 was nominated, along with The Methodist Episcopal Church and the Free Church were both built in 1857 directly across the road from each other in North Harpersfield.

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.

An American Red Cross Blood drive is being held in Oneonta from 1:00 to 6:00 PM today at the Quality Inn, on State Highway 23. Appointments can be made with the RedCrossBlood.org, the Red Cross Blood Donor App, or by calling 1-800-RED CROSS.

The Norwich St. Baldrick's Event will be held tomorrow, Spokesman Zachary Wentworth comments:

(Zachary Wentworth 3-7-24)

Wentworth said that the details regarding the organizations efforts against Childhood cancers can be found at the St. Baldricks website, at the Norwich events Facebook Page or by calling 607-373-7228. The head-shaving event will be held at the Canasawacta Country Club in Norwich on March 16th starting at 1:00 PM.

P.M. NEWS THURSDAY 3-7-24

The Norwich St. Baldrick's Event will be held on March 16th this year, back as an in-person event, Spokesman Zachary Wentworth comments:

(Zachary Wentworth 3-7-24)

Wentworth said that the details regarding the organizations efforts against Childhood cancers can be found at the St. Baldricks website, at the Norwich events Facebook Page or by calling 607-373-7228. The head-shaving event will be held at the Canasawacta Country Club in Norwich on March 16th starting at 1:00 PM.

The State Labor Department announced that the number of private sector jobs increased .6%, to 8,346,200 in January. The State's seasonally adjusted unemployment rate decreased from 4.6% in December 2023 to 4.5% in January 2024. The Job Participation rate was 61.4% in January 2024.

Broome County Sheriff’s Deputies performed a traffic stop on Chenango Street in the City of Binghamton, 47 year old James Bell of Conklin was found to be in possession of Methamphetamine along with a scale, Bell was charged with 2 Counts of Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance & Criminal Use of Drug Paraphernalia, While in custody, Bell was found to have concealed on his person an additional amount of Methamphetamine, leading to an additional charge of Tampering with Physical Evidence. Bell was processed, arraigned and currently remains in custody. The Sheriff's Office reported that Bell had previously been arrested on February 23, 2024 on drug charges and was released on an appearance ticket.

Otsego County officials are at odds over a proposal to spend $160,000 for a study regarding the County Correctional Facility & Otsego County Sheriff's Office. Otsego County Administrator Steve Wilson is seeking funds for the study, while Sheriff Rich Devlin released a Statement saying that the study would be repetitive, as it has been well documented regarding the needs and issues at the County Correctional facility that have existed for many decades, he urged the County Board to deny Wilson's request for the study.

A.M. NEWS THURSDAY 3-6-24

State Police received a cybertip of child sexual abuse material that was uploaded to a mobile messaging application, they arrested 21 year old Stephen Guilbault and 34 year old Dimitri Escrich both of Deposit, for Possessing a Sexual Performance by a Child. Guilbault was additionally charged with Promoting a Sexual Performance by a Child. Guilbault was arraigned in Delaware County Court, Escrich was issued an appearance ticket and is due to appear in the Town of Deposit Court on March 25th.

Broome County Sheriff's Office announced that Correctional Facility Searches by K-9 Marley have led to Felony Drug and Contraband Charges. In Case #1 On February 14, 36 year old Heather Aviles of Owego was found to have Heroin, Aviles was charged with Promoting Prison Contraband & Criminal Use of Drug Paraphernalia. In Case #2, On February 23, 34 year old Marvin Greene of Binghamton was flushing his toilet multiple times, which led to cell search and strip search, Greene became uncooperative, physically struggling with officers, they found synthetic cannabis. Greene was charged with Promoting Prison Contraband, Attempting to Conceal/Alter/Destroy Physical Evidence, & Obstructing Governmental Administration.

Chenango County Sheriff’s Office arrested 32 year old Chad Buyea of Norwich for Assault, Criminal Obstruction of Breathing, Endangering the Welfare of a Child, and Harassment. Deputies responded to a report of child abuse, after a mother of a 17-month-old child reporting that her child had injuries to the face, after Buyea was babysitting the child, home security cameras revealed the abuse. Buyea was arraigned in Centralized Arraignment and remanded to the Chenango County Correctional Facility on cash bail. Buyea is to appear in the Town of Norwich Court at a later date.

Mohawk Valley Assemblyman Robert Smullen announced on his Facebook page that his 14 year old son A.J. passed away, he had been in critical condition in the Pediatric ICU at Albany Medical Center following emergency surgery, the boy sustained injuries in an accident, resulting in a traumatic brain injury.

P.M. NEWS FRIDAY 9-15-23

The Norwich Chapter of the St. Baldrick’s Foundation will hold a fundraising raffle today & tomorrow at Hidden Springs Brewery in the town of Norwich. Organizer Jamie Burchill explains:

(Jamie Burchill 9-15-23)

Burchill said that they are already gearing up for next year’s St. Baldrick’s event in March, last year they raised of $50,000 dollars with the event, to raise money to fight Childhood Cancer.

Sidney Village Police arrested 33 year old Codey Miner of Sidney for burglary, criminal possession of a weapon, criminal mischief, endangering the welfare of a child, preventing an emergency call and menacing 2nd degree. Miner released on own recognizance &will appear back in court later this month.

The annual Sidney Center Tractor Parade will be held tomorrow at 12:00 Noon. A chicken barbecue will also be set up at the Sidney Center Fire House, Registration is from 9:00 to 11:45 A.M.

The City of the Hills Festival will be held this weekend in Downtown Oneonta. The event will be held both Saturday & Sunday with arts, music & food available, it is free to attend & is sponsored by the Community Arts Network of Oneonta.

The State Department of Health released a report regarding tobacco related cancers from 2016 - 2020. Approximately 46,000 cases of tobacco-related cancers are diagnosed in New York State each year. Among the four cancers most closely related to tobacco, rates of esophagus, larynx and lung cancer have steeply declined, but oral cancer increased by 1.3%. Tobacco-related cancers make up 40% of all State cancer cases diagnosed annually. Also 22.5% of high school students reported use of e-cigarettes in the past 30 days; 6.8% of middle school students reported the same. The New York State Smokers' Quitline is available by calling 1-866-NY-QUITS or nysmokefree.com.

An AMBA Blood Screening Clinic is being held Saturday by The Tri-County Chapter of New York State Women, at the Sidney Elks Club. The money raised from the $10.00 sponsor fee are used for local high school scholarships. Call 1-800-234-8888 for an appointment, prescriptions from your health care provider are required.

Blues on the Bridge returns to Binghamton for the 21st year on Saturday, The event is centered around the South Washington Street Bridge. Numerous area bands will perform, More than 50 food tents and other vendors will be set up, more information is available at bluesonthebridge.com.

A.M. NEWS Friday 9-15-23

The Demolition of 27 Market Street in Oneonta will begin today. The building and site have been condemned and deemed unsafe. Absolutely no one is allowed on or near the work area except for the asbestos abatement contractor’s crews. There will be no parking on Chestnut Street Extension except for deliveries, on Monday, building demolition operations will begin, followed by backfilling and grading the site for parking. The project is expected to continue until the end of October.

Delaware Valley Humane Society & Waste Recovery Enterprises have teamed up for the 4th consecutive year for the Heavy Metal Haul Out, Humane Society Director Erin Insinga said that they will do the fundraiser differently this year:

(Erin Insinga 8-23-23)

More information about the fundraiser or adoptions is available at 563-7780.

September is Suicide awareness Month, and 2 events will be coming this month to raise awareness & raise funds to combat the continuing suicide problem. Karen Heisig is the Director of the Greater New York Chapter of the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention, she talked about Tomorrow's Walk in Oneonta:

(Karen Heiseg 9-15-23)

Heiseg said Saturday's Oneonta Walk will be at the 6th Ward Booster Club Field, another will be on September 24th starting at SUNY Delhi at 12:00 Noon, people can register for the walks at AFSP.ORG/Oneonta or AFSP.Org/Delaware County, more information is also available at 315-664-0346.

The Rock Band Jimkata returns home for a show at the Foothills Performing Arts Center Saturday Night, Spokesman Geoff Doyle explains:

(Geoff Doyle 9-15-23)

Doyle said that a few tickets were still available at the box office or at foothillspac.org. for Saturday Night's show.

P.M. NEWS TUESDAY 9-12-23

State Police announced that No arrests were made during an Underage Drinking Initiative in Troop “C” in Chenango County Monday. During the initiative, 14 businesses were checked. All 14 were in compliance and did not sell alcohol to an under-aged operative. the businesses that were checked were located in Norwich, Oxford & Greene.

The Norwich Chapter of the St. Baldrick's Foundation will hold a fundraising raffle this Friday & Saturday at Hidden Springs Brewery in the town of Norwich. Organizer Jamie Burchill explains:

(Jamie Burchill 9-12-23)

Burchill said that they are already gearing up for next year's St. Baldrick's event in March, last year they raised of $50,000 dollars with the event, to raise money to fight Childhood Cancer.

State Police are currently recruiting to add to their numbers, especially those who live in the Troop C coverage area. Troop C Recruiting Officer Trooper Lauren Warner Told WCDO News that she started out as a teacher & is now a State Trooper:

(Trooper Lauren Warner 9-12-23)

Trooper Warner Said that anyone interested in Becoming a State Trooper can visit JoinStatePolice.Ny.Gov, or call her at Troop C Headquarters at 607-561-7400, the current deadline to apply is October 1st.

The Broome County Sheriff’s Office and the Broome County Department of Social Services, announced that a homeless man that was living in a bus stop in the town of Dickinson, has returned home to his family. Earl Sutton had been living at the bus stop shelter where numerous people attempted to help him access various community services and find a permanent residence, but he refused any assistance. Sheriff Fred Akshar directed the Broome County Sheriff’s Office team to locate and contact Sutton's family, they found his Uncle James Sutton, in Toledo, Ohio, Officers found out that Earl Sutton had been missing for 2 years, earlier he had a bike accident that left him Mentally challenged, he had stopped taking his medication and disappeared. On September 8th, Earl Sutton went home to Ohio.

A.M. NEWS TUESDAY 9-12-23

In July, uniformed Broome County Deputies and members of the Broome County Special Investigations Unit Task Force conducted a targeted enforcement within the Village of Endicott, focusing on the trafficking and distribution of weapons and narcotics. The targeted crime response during that month yielded a grand total of 20 felony arrests and 19 misdemeanor arrests were made, nearly all involving weapon and narcotics possession or distribution. 3 illegal shotguns and 1 illegal handgun were also confiscated during the targeted enforcement period in the Village of Endicott. During the same time frame, The Task Force also conducted 3 search warrants in the Village of Endicott, leading to a total of 17 felony charges and 10 Misdemeanors.

The Broome County Sheriff's Office is currently investigating a fatal pedestrian-train accident that occurred Monday night near the area of South Kelly Avenue in Endwell and resulted in the death of an adult male. The Broome County Sheriff's Office will provide further updates as the investigation concludes.

Delaware County Public Health has a Free Rabies Vaccination Clinic For dogs, cats and ferrets today from 5PM-7PM, at the Stamford Fire Hall, more information is available at 607-832-5200 or delawarecountypublichealth.com.

19th District Congressman Marc Molinaro announced $180,000 is being delivered to Margaretville Memorial Hospital to address the shortage of Emergency Medical Services personnel in Delaware County. The funding is available through the Department of Health and Human Services, Margaretville Memorial Hospital will expand EMS training opportunities through its partnership with Delaware County EMS and SUNY Cobleskill.

P.M. NEWS WEDNESDAY 3-22-23

The Village of Sidney Mayoral & Village Board seat election results were released this morning, Sidney Village Clerk Lisa French told WCDO News the numbers:

(Lisa French 3-22-23)

French said that all ballots had to be turned in by 9:00 PM last night to be counted, including early & absentee ballots.

The United States Department of Justice announced Tuesday that 30 year old Shelby Ortiz of Maryland, New York was sentenced to serve 15 years in prison and a 20-year term of supervised release, for distributing child pornography. Ortiz also will be required to register as a sex offender upon her release from prison. Ortiz pleaded guilty in October 2022, she admitted that she subjected a 7-month-old boy to sexual contact which was video recorded and sent to to a person living in Florida with whom she was participating in an online and telephone dominant/submissive sexual relationship. The case was investigated by U.S. Homeland Security, the Oneonta Police Department, and the State Police

The Otsego County Sheriff's Office announced that 27 year old Brandon Morse of Edmeston was charged with cashing a stolen check last month was arrested again over the weekend for falsely reporting an incident to law enforcement. Morse is accused of lying to authorities about a man outside of his residence with a gun. Prior to the February arrest, Morse allegedly stole a $3,500 check from a local business and cashed it illegally. Morse was released with an appearance ticket and is due back in court at a later date.

The Afton Sertoma Club presents Goofy Golf again this Saturday at the Afton Central school, Spokesperson Helen Kittle explains:

(Helen Kittle 3-22-23)

The event runs from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM Saturday, no pre registration is required.

The 2023 Norwich St. Baldrick's "Brave the Shave" fundraising event was held at the Norwich American Legion Post 189 Saturday, the fundraiser to support childhood cancer research raised $49,236 this year with the event. Donations for the 2023 Norwich St. Baldrick's are being accepted at StBaldricks.org/events/norwich2023.

Delaware County Board of Supervisors were notified that the federal civil rights suit filed against the County by former Social Services Commissioner Dana Scuderi-Hunter, was dismissed by the U.S. District Court Monday. Scuderi-Hunter had filed the civil rights suit last year, claiming that the County had violated her 1st Amendment rights; that she was denied due process as part of her 2019 dismissal; and that the County’s actions were retaliatory as a result of her testimony during a Family Court proceeding. U.S. District Court Judge Lawrence Kahn, ordered the claims made by Scuderi-Hunter be dismissed on the basis that the claims had already been litigated and decided by the State Appellate Division in February 2022, she additionally appealed that decision, which was denied last June, she then sought an appeal from the State Court of Appeals which was also denied. Judge Kahn also dismissed Scuderi-Hunter’s claims that County Attorney Amy Merklen had a conflict of interest in carrying out her duties as assigned.

The Village of Sidney Police Benevolent Association endorsed Acting Delaware County District Attorney Shawn Smith in this year's race for the the Delaware County District Attorney's Position. The Association stated that they reached this decision following an increase in communication, transparency & compassion from the DA's office & Staff since Smith became the Acting DA January 1st. Smith faces a primary in June from fellow Republican Joe Ermeti of Sidney, who announced his candidacy recently for the DA position.

A.M. NEWS Wednesday 3-22-23

Delaware County District Attorney's office announced that 71 year old Vincent Balsamo of Walton was arraigned on a sealed indictment in Delaware County Court Monday. The Indictment charges Balsamo with 2nd degree Manslaughter, 2nd degree Assault & Reckless Endangerment, for repeatedly choking, strangling & slapping & striking 52 year old April Kestner of Honesdale Pennsylvania at his residence in the Town of Walton in December 7th of 2022. Balsamo faces 5 to 15 years in jail on the Manslaughter charge, he was sent to the Delaware County Correctional facility on $50,000 cash bail or $150,000 bond.

The City of Oneonta announced that there will be one lane traffic at the intersection of Main Street and Gardner Place in order to tie the new sewer pipe into an existing sanitary sewer manhole. Temporary traffic signals with stop bars will be used to direct traffic and maintain a steady flow. For questions or concerns related to this project, please contact the Department of Public Works by emailing dpsinfo@oneonta.ny.us, or calling 432-2100.

The New York State Department of Transportation is advising motorists to expect daily single lane closures along both directions of State Route 434 (Vestal Parkway) between Murray Hill Road in the Town of Vestal and Pennsylvania Avenue in the City of Binghamton, weekdays from 6:30 am. to 6 pm. through approximately October 15. The lane closures are necessary to facilitate construction of a multi-purpose pedestrian path.

Delaware County Sheriff’s Deputies responded to disabled vehicle on County Highway 26 in the Town of Hamden. During the course of the investigation Sheriff’s Deputies identified the driver as 21 year old Edwards Khali of Delhi, Deputies discovered that Khali’s vehicle was suspended due to an insurance lapse. Khali was charged with with Operating a Vehicle with a Suspended Registration & Unregistered Vehicle, he was released on an appearance ticket, and was directed to appear before the Town of Hamden Court at a later date to answer for the charge.

P.M. NEWS TUESDAY 3-14-23

Winter Weather is expected to continue for several more hours, local meteorologist Rich Townsend comments:

(Townsend 3-14-23)

The National Weather Service Winter Storm Warning remains in effect until 8:00 AM Wednesday.

Delaware County District Attorney's Office announced that 39 year old Leigh Murray of Patterson pleaded guilty to DWI in Delaware County Court. Murray admitted to driving at a high rate of speed on State Route 17 in Hancock after 2 to 3 vodkas in November of last year, she will be sentenced to 6 months in jail and 5 years of post release supervision at sentencing at a later date.

U.S. Senator Majority Leader Chuck Schumer and U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand announced $5,196,000 in federal funding to develop and preserve affordable housing and invest in community development efforts throughout New York. The funding was allocated through NeighborWorks America, locally, Greater Opportunities for Broome and Chenango, will receive $212,000 in funding.

Delaware County Sheriff's Deputies responded to a report of harassment occurring in the Village of Margaretville. During the course of the investigation, the complainant advised that 51-year-old Melissa Hull of Margaretville contacted her via telephone and made threats & came to her residence in a confrontational manner and made additional threats. Hull was arrested Friday, & an order of protection was also issued against Hull ordering her to stay away from the complainant. Hull was processed and released on an appearance ticket.

The New York State Department of Labor today released preliminary local area unemployment rates for January 2023. New York State's seasonally adjusted unemployment increased from 4.1% to 4.2% in January 2023. Locally Chenango County had 4.3% unemployment, Delaware County 5.1% and Otsego County also had 5.1% in January.

A.M. NEWS TUESDAY 3-14-23

Governor Kathy Hochul has declared a State of Emergency, State Police are urging New Yorkers to avoid any unnecessary travel. High winds, rapidly falling heavy snow, and whiteout conditions, will make travel extremely dangerous.

NYSEG crews will continue to be out as the heavy wet snow is expected to adversely affecting trees & power lines. Earlier this morning, over 1500 Delaware COunty custoomers were without power, but that was rectified by about 8:00 AM. Columbia County is the hardest hit, with over 6,000 customers without power this afternoon.

The Norwich St. Baldrick’s Event will return to an In-Person Event on Saturday at the Norwich American Legion on Sheldon Street. More information is available on their website, stbaldricks.org/events/norwich2023.

P.M. NEWS WEDNESDAY 2-15-23

The Delaware County District Attorney's Office announced that 40 year old Adam Bright of East Meredith entered a Guilty Plea in a Vehicular Manslaughter Case. Bright pleaded guilty to 1 count of Vehicular Manslaughter and 1 count of Driving While Ability Impaired by Drugs, in Delaware County Court this week, Bright admitted that he was using methamphetamine while driving & that he crossed the double yellow line and hit a milk truck head on, killing his passenger. Bright faces a state prison term of 1-3 years on the Vehicular Manslaughter charge, he will be sentenced to 364 days in jail for driving while his ability was impaired by drugs, which will run concurrently to the previous sentence. Bright was remanded to the custody of the Delaware County Sheriff's office, without bail, pending sentencing.

At least 3 people were killed in a crash in Newark Valley This Morning. The Tioga County Sheriff’s Office reported that a vehicle traveling along Route 38 struck several pedestrians, at least 1 person was taken by a medial; helicopter to an unidentified trauma center, The Sheriff’s Office will release more information following family notification.

The Norwich St. Baldrick's Event will return to an In-Person Event this year, on Saturday March 18th at the Norwich American Legion on Sheldon Street. Organizer Jamie Burchill told WCDO News how they raise the money:

(Jamie Burchill 2-15-23)

Burchill said that the information is available on their website, stbaldricks.org/events/norwich2023.

Bassett Healthcare Network will continue to require masks for all people in patient care and public areas of their buildings, including in hospitals, clinics, long-term care and rehabilitation facilities, and school-based health centers. Bassett Officials said that COVID-19 and influenza community transmission rates in Central New York remain high or substantial & the State Department of Health's latest safety guidance continues to affirm the importance of masking as a key infection prevention tool. Bassett's experts in Infection Prevention and other disciplines will continue to monitor community transmission levels and proceed forward with safety measures that are aligned with CDC guidance and in the best interest of our patients and communities.

The Otsego County Sheriff's Office arrested 25 year old Alexis Damulis of Burlington following a traffic stop on February 7th in the Town of Edmeston. Damulis was charged with Operating a Motor Vehicle with a suspended or revoked registration, Failure to comply & Driving on the shoulder among other charges, Damulis is accused of failing to stop for police, she was taken into custody after pulling into a driveway, she faces court action in the Town of Edmeston court at a later date.

The Otsego County Sheriff's Office arrested 38 year old Tristan Buss of Utica following a traffic stop on February 2, 2023 in the Town of Edmeston. Buss was charged with Aggravated Unlicensed Operator, Forged Inspection among other charges, He is scheduled to appear in the Town of Edmeston Court on a later date.

A.M. NEWS Wednesday 2-15-23

Payton Gendron of Conklin will be sentenced today on state charges of Murder & domestic terrorism motivated by hate, for the May 2022 mass shooting at a Buffalo Tops Supermarket that killed 10 and injured 3, all of the victims were black. Tomorrow Gendron faces an appearance in a federal courtroom, he could face the death penalty on the state charges foe the same crime.

Broome County Sheriff’s Office deputies arrested 45 year old John Turner of the town of Dickinson. Turner was stopped for an expired vehicle inspection, he fled from deputies on foot, he allegedly attempted to dispose of methamphetamine crystals, Deputies caught Turner and recovered 11.3 grams of methamphetamines. Turner allegedly attempted to consume a large portion of the narcotics, he was transported to Binghamton General Hospital, after release he was charged with Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance, Tampering with Physical Evidence, and Obstructing Governmental Administration, plus 2 traffic violation, he was processed and issued an appearance ticket to answer for his charges in the Town of Dickinson Court.

Truth Pharm will be holding a free Narcan training at the Afton Free Library, at 105 Main Street in Afton, at 10:00 AM today The training is open to the Chenango County and surrounding communities, and will teach participants the science of substance abuse and addiction, as well as how to recognize an overdose, and how to respond to an overdose using Narcan.

Broome County District Attorney Mike Korchak announced that Vance Murray of Binghamton was sentenced to 2 years in State prison followed by 2 years post release supervision, after pleading guilty to felony Attempted Criminal Possession of a Weapon. Murray admitted that on March 26, 2022, in the Village of Endicott he illegally possessed a loaded 9 millimeter pistol, during a traffic stop of a vehicle that he was a passenger in.

A Davenport man was arrested by Delaware County Sheriff’s deputies responded to an ongoing complaint. 20-year-old Brandon Navas was allegedly stealing electricity for his residence, he was released on an appearance ticket and is scheduled to appear in the Town of Davenport Court at a later date.

P.M. NEWS MONDAY 2-13-23

The Norwich St. Baldrick’s event will be held in person on Saturday, March 18th at the American Legion Post 189 located at 29 Sheldon Street in Norwich at 1:00 PM. Those who sign up participate in a head-shaving event, to raise money against Childhood Cancer, more information is available at Stbaldricks.org/events/Norwich2023.

New Yorkers who receive SNAP assistance will get some more help during the month of February. Governor Kathy Hochul is announcing New Yorkers will get at least the maximum level of food benefits. It comes as federal funding for SNAP assistance is scheduled to dry up after February. All counties outside New York City should receive assistance by Friday, February 24th.

The State Department of Health dropped the mask mandate for healthcare facilities this past weekend. following a steady drop in COVID cases and deaths in recent months. The State Health Department still reminds Healthcare workers to be up to date on vaccinations and booster efforts. President Biden recently declared the federal public health emergency would come to an end on May 11th.

Delaware County District Attorney's Office announced that 51 year old Charles Wise of Grand Gorge was convicted for DWI in the Town of Roxbury Court. The charge followed an investigation into a motor vehicle crash on State Highway 20, in Roxbury on September 1, 2022. Wise was sentenced to a 1-year conditional discharge, and his driver’s license was revoked for 6 months, he must also install and maintain an ignition interlock device in any motor vehicle he owns or operates for the next 12 months & he was ordered to pay a $500 fine, and to attend a victim impact panel.

The Susquehanna SPCA hosted an event last week in Oneonta, to meet with others in the field of animal care, to establish a program to deal with large numbers of feral cats in area communities. Susquehanna SPCA Executive Director Stacie Haynes told WCDO News about the meeting and their course of action:

(Stacie Haynes 2-13-23)

Anyone who did not attend last Thursday's meeting, but would like to get involved can call the SPCA at 607-547-8111.

York County South Carolina Sheriff’s Detectives are investigating the death of 55 year old Michael Aaron Ingraham of Endicott New York in Fort Mill. Ingraham’s body was discovered about 20 feet off the road by a passerby, Thursday Afternoon. So far, Investigators discovered Ingraham has no known family or acquaintances in the York County or surrounding areas. Anyone with information can call 803-628-3059 or or go to crimestoppersofyorkcounty.com.

P.M. NEWS TUESDAY 3-22-21

Sidney Police responded to a trespassing complaint on March 17th at a vacant home on Ritton Street in the Village. During the investigation it was learned that a male involved in the case had an active arrest warrant issued by Delaware County Family Court. 41 year old James Nash was arrested on a Delaware County Family Court warrant & was then turned over to the Delaware County Sheriff's Office.

Wegmans has issued a voluntary recall for select store brand pre-cut fruit due to possible listeria contamination. Certain Wergman's brands of Watermelon, Pineapple, Cantalopes & Melons are part of the recall, the items may be returned to the Customer Service desk for a full refund. For more information, customers can call 1-855-934-3663.

The Madison County Sheriff's Office is investigating an accident that killed an Otsego County man Sunday morning. The crash happened around 4:45 a.m. Sunday in the town of Brookfield, deputies found a Jeep Cherokee off the road and overturned partially in a creek. 36-year-old Travis Chesebro of West Edmeston was pronounced dead at the scene, the investigation is ongoing.

For National Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month, Oneonta's Muller Plaza will be the site of the "Main Street Goes Blue Event" on Friday, spokesperson Rebecca Hess explains:

(Rebecca Hess 3-22-22)

The Program runs from 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM Friday in Oneonta, more information about the program is available at 1-888-345-0225.

A.M. NEWS TUESDAY 3-22-22

Governor Kathy Hochul reported that the State Health Department is closely monitoring BA.2 variant of COVID 19 as the positivity rate has increased over the last several days. On Sunday, the rate increased back up to 1.98%, 901 Patients are Hospitalized, there are 159 in an ICU with 71 on ventilators, 6 died in hospitals & nursing homes Sunday from the virus.

Today is "National Agriculture Day" a day to celebrate the importance of the American Farm, Chenango County Farm Bureau President Bradd Vickers told WCDO News that the number of farms continues to trend downward:

(Bradd Vickers 3-22-22)

Vickers said that Agriculture has contributed more than 5.7 billion dollars to New York State's economy, there are 33,400 farms in the State with 6,900,000 acres of operated farmland, more information is available at ccfbny.org.

The annual St. Baldrick's fundraiser in Chenango County shattered last year's record of $38,315, by bringing in over $52,000 Saturday. 40 participants shaved their heads, in solidarity with children enduring cancer treatments, Saturday's event was dedicated to 6 year old Trinity O'Connor, of Sidney, who recently passed away following a 4 year battle with cancer.

Norwich St. Baldrick’s has announced that their annual head shaving fundraiser to fight childhood cancers will again be a virtual event for 2022, on Saturday, March 19th, Event Organizer Jamie Burchill told WCDO News how the virtual event will work:

(Jamie Burchill 2-11-22)

The 2021 St. Baldrick’s event in Norwich, despite being a virtual event, raised a record $38,315 to fund childhood cancer research, those wishing to participate can go to Stbaldricks.org/events/Norwich2022 to sign up.

State Police at Norwich are asking the public to keep their eyes open for a missing snow machine from the town of McDonough. The “Snowdog” snow machine was taken from Balsam Pond sometime between February 5th to the 7th, The owner was using it on February 5 and had to leave it behind after it got stuck in the snow. When they returned, it was gone. The snow machine is a walk behind and is white and gray camouflage colored, pictures can be found on the State Police website, or Facebook or twitter accounts. Anyone with information, can contact State Police at (607)561-7400.

The Firefighters Association of the State of New York will kick off the 16th Annual Firefighter Winter Games in Cortland this weekend at the Greek Peak Mountain Resort & at SUNY Cortland. Firefighters from across the State, dressed in full turnout gear, will participate in a variety of winter events and races. More information is available at fasny.com.

A.M. NEWS FRIDAY 2-11-22

State and local law enforcement agencies across New York will be stepping up patrols and targeting impaired driving during the Super Bowl weekend. The enforcement campaign will run from today through Monday. During the 2021 campaign, law enforcement throughout the state issued 26,127 tickets for vehicle and traffic law violations, including 846 arrests for DWI.

Governor Kathy Hochul announced 63 new #VaxForKids pop-up vaccination sites statewide, to increase vaccination rates among children and adolescents. In the Southern Tier, there will be a vaccination clinic at the Hancock Central School Bus Garage Saturday, from 11:00 AM to 7:00 PM, featuring the Pfizer and J&J vaccines, for those 5 years of age and up.

The Chenango County Sheriff’s Office arrested 30 year old Jesse Whaley of McDonough on February 4th, for harassment, endangering the welfare of a child and criminal mischief, After the Sheriff’s Office received a complaint of a domestic dispute in the Town of Norwich. Whaley is accused of engaging in a physical domestic dispute and damaging property, he was arrested and arraigned in the Town of Oxford Court, where an order of protection was issued. Whaley was then released on his own recognizance; he is to appear in the Town of Norwich Court on a later date.

P.M. NEWS FRIDAY 3-12-21

Delaware County will be presenting the Delaware County Sheriff's Department Reform plans to the state before the April 1st deadline; Delaware County Sheriff Craig DuMond said he was pleased with the plan & some of the changes that will be made:

(DuMond 3-12-21)

Governor Cuomo ordered all law enforcement agencies to meet with the communities they serve & submit reform plans, following last year’s George Floyd incident in Minnesota that sparked nationwide outrage over Police tactics.

The State DEC announced that the annual open burning ban will go into effect March 16th & run through May 14th this year.  The DEC reported that Open burning of household trash releases dangerous compounds including arsenic, carbon monoxide, benzene, formaldehyde, lead, & others into the air,  Open burning is also the single greatest cause of wildfires in New York.  More information is available at dec.ny.gov/chemical.

The annual Norwich St. Baldrick’s head shaving fundraiser to fight childhood cancers will be a virtual event tomorrow live on Facebook.  Last year’s St. Baldrick’s event in Norwich was held last March just before the COVID statewide shutdown; they still raised $31,771 for childhood cancer research. More information is available at Stbaldricks.org/events/Norwich.

Chenango County Public Health added 4 more COVID 19 cases today, bringing them up to 2531 since the pandemic started.  They report 11 hospitalized, 72 active cases with 212 quarantined, they have had 2303 recoveries & 63 deaths.

Bob Brozozowski, who ran the Greater Oneonta Historical Society for almost 2 decades, has been chosen to lead the Friends of Oneonta Theatre group.  The group is looking to purchase, & renovate the theater at 47 Chestnut Street in Oneonta; more information is available at their Facebook page.

Several Fire Companies responded to a fire at about 1:20 this morning for structure fire at the Hansman Mill on Water Street in Smithville Flats.  The Genegantslett, Greene, Brisben, McDonough,  fire Departments plus the Chenango County Bureau of Fire, NYSEG & the state DEC responded, the Building was a complete loss. The fire Is still under investigation by the Chenango County Bureau of Fire.

The Otsego County Department of Health will be holding a vaccination clinic at the Meadows Office Complex in Cooperstown on Tuesday March 16th, the registration link is on the Otsego County Department of Health Website.  Registration is mandatory & the vaccine is available to anyone currently listed as eligible according to State Guidelines.

A.M. NEWS FRIDAY 3-12-21

Sidney Village Police responded to a domestic disturbance Thursday,  officers arrested 43 year old Anthony Fiorillo of Sidney for Criminal contempt, Menacing & Harassment.   Fiorillo was arraigned in the Village of Sidney Court & was remanded to the Delaware County Jail on $1000 cash bail or $2000 bond.

Chenango County Sheriff's Office arrested 32 year old Aaron Wickham of Norwich Thursday afternoon for Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance, failing to comply, and several vehicle and traffic law violations. Detectives and Deputies attempted to stop Wickham's motorcycle in Norwich, a chase took place from Norwich into the Village of Bainbridge, where Wickham lost control & was involved in a motor vehicle accident. Wickham was found to be in possession of 2 ounces of methamphetamine and more than a gram of fentanyl, he was scheduled to be processed last night.

The State Board on Electric Generation Siting and the Environment granted approval to High Bridge Wind to build and operate a 100 megawatt wind farm in the Town of Guilford. The facility will be located on 3,900 acres, The turbines will have a total tip height of between 655 to 671 feet and be connected to the bulk electric transmission system owned by NYSEG.  A 17-mile long electrical collection system corridor will also be set up.

Delaware County Sheriff's Deputies responded to a Town of Walton residence after a vehicle sustained extensive damage, a garage was forcefully entered and a fire had been set the night of January 23rd.  The victim’s vehicle was intentionally damaged by a 17-year-old female, the doors of a garage on the property were then kicked in by a second 17-year-old female, they entered the building and started a “bon fire”.  Deputies charged both teens with arson and criminal mischief,  both were issued appearance tickets for Delaware County Youth Court at a later date.

Delaware County Public Health reported 22 new COVID cases out of 287 tested Thursday, they reported 14 hospitalized, 185 quarantined & 133 active cases.  Delaware County Public Health has vaccinated 1,563 people.

P.M. NEWS MONDAY 1-11-21

Governor Cuomo held a Virtual State of the State Address today, outlining the immediate future of dealing with COVID testing & Vaccinations, as well as several other proposals for 2021:

(Cuomo 1-11-21)

Other proposals include expanding access to Tele-medicine for all New Yorkers, Prohibiting Disconnections by Utility Companies during a state of emergency, modernizing the Office of Professional Medical conduct and pushing for additional Green Technologies and transitioning to renewable energy sources.

New York State is moving on to the next phase of people for vaccinations against the COVID virus. All of those eligible in Phase 1A have not been completed due to he slow rollout of vaccines, New York is already starting to vaccinate those in Phase 1B this week, using the State Fairgrounds, doctors' offices, county health departments and about 1,200 pharmacies to get doses to those in Phase 1B. More information is available at am-i-eligible.covid19vaccine.health.ny.gov.

The Norwich St. Baldrick’s annual head shaving fundraiser to fight childhood cancers will be a virtual event this year due to the ongoing pandemic. Details are still be worked out, tentative plans call for those getting shaved & have it broadcast on Facebook Live, on Saturday, March 13th. People can sign up at Stbaldricks.org/events/Norwich.

Sidney Village Department of Public Works announced this afternoon that there is a water leak near the intersection of Circle Drive & Manatee. Water will be shut off to all of the area apartments complexes on Circle Drive, repairs are expected to be completed by 6:00 PM.

A.M. NEWS MONDAY 1-11-21

Governor Cuomo updated New Yorkers on the state's COVID-19 pandemic numbers. On Saturday, over 246,000 New Yorkers were tested for the virus, with 15,355 testing positive, that was 6.22% of all tested. Hospitalizations went down slightly to 8,484, the number in ICU beds was 1436, with 892 on Ventilators, and there were 151 deaths Saturday from the virus.

Otsego County Department of Health announced that they had 25 new cases of COVID 19 Saturday, with 154 active cases & 15 Hospitalized. The Department announced a potential COVID 19 exposure at Nancy’s Bar in Schenevus, anyone who was at the bar between 11:00 AM to 6:00 PM on January 1st should monitor for symptoms, & if symptoms develop, get tested and self-isolate, more information is available at 607-547-4231

Sidney Fire Fighters were called to a kitchen range fire at 23 Sharon Street Sunday night at about 6:30 PM. The kitchen was severely damaged; the Sidney Fire Department was assisted by the Bainbridge and Masonville Fire Departments.

The New York Lottery announced a 2nd-prize ticket for the January 8 Mega Millions drawing was sold in BINGHAMTON. The ticket is worth a guaranteed $2,000,000, & was purchased at LOVE'S TRAVEL STOP at 2 Industrial Park Drive.

The mobile screening coach will be at the Oneonta Southside Mall Today from 9:00 am to 2:30 pm to provide NO COST mammograms and Pap tests to women 40 and over. Appointments are required at 1-888-345-0225, colorectal cancer screening kits also available for men and women 50 and over.

Governor
Cuomo & the State Health Department announced the latest situation today
regarding the Coronavirus.  The state
Health Department is in contact with the 28 private labs, to get them up to
speed for testing for the virus, they expect to double the number of testing
next to 6000 a day.  Today there are 421 confirmed
cases of the Coronavirus in New York State, 50 people are hospitalized, there
have been no deaths in New York State, and there are 41 nationwide, 31 in the
State of Washington.

Delaware
County Sheriff's Office is investigating an on-line computer repair scam that
led to significant financial loss to an elderly local resident.  Investigators were contacted by The Delaware
National Bank of Delhi, the customer had fallen victim twice to an on-line
Pop-Up scam and lost thousands of dollars, the victim was stopped from further
issues by an alert UPS employee. The investigation is on-going by Delaware
County Sheriff's Investigators and San Diego County Sheriff’s Office.  Sheriff DuMond reminds the public that they
should contact the Sheriff's Office or local law enforcement if they may be the
target of a scam or identity theft.  On-line
complaint forms are available through the State Attorney General, ag.ny.gov;
the Federal Trade Commission, consumer.ftc.gov; and the FBI at ic3.gov.

Officials
with Quest Diagnostics announced that the AMBA Blood Clinic will continue as
planned tomorrow morning at the Sidney Elks Lodge.  The event will run from 6:00 AM to 9:30 AM,
officials said that just over 80 people have made appointments, spread out over
the 3 1/2 hours, which falls within the parameters set by the State Health
Department Thursday.

State
Police will increase patrols to combat drunk, impaired and reckless driving as
St. Patrick’s Day celebrations get underway this weekend. This enforcement
detail begins today and runs through next Wednesday.  Drivers can expect to encounter additional
DWI patrols and a number of sobriety checkpoints during the enforcement period.
State Police will also be ticketing districted drivers who are using handheld
electronic devices, and will also conduct underage drinking and unlawful sales
to minor’s details during the campaign.
The Governor's Traffic Safety Committee & the State STOP-DWI
Foundation suggest that people download the "Have a Plan" mobile app,
to locate and call a taxi service and program a designated driver list.

The
Chenango County Board of Supervisors passed a resolution to implement a 4%
occupancy "Bed" tax in Chenango County. The new Law will provide a
dedicated funding stream to promote and develop the tourism industry in
Chenango County and to reduce pressure on the property tax levy.  Chenango County has been one of just a few
counties in New York State that had not previously collected a bed tax.   Tourism is New York’s 3rd largest industry,
hosting 253 million visitors annually who spend 71.8 billion at NYS businesses
creating 114.8 billion in economic impact.

The New
York State Public High School Athletic Association announced that regional
& state championships will be postponed indefinitely.  The impacted events include Ice Hockey, Bowling
& the Boys & Girls Basketball regional & State Championships.  Officials announced the postponements were
due to the reports of the Corona Virus outbreaks across the state, to insure
the safety & health of the student athletes.

The St.
Baldrick’s Foundation will host head-shaving events tomorrow at the American
Legion in Norwich, where over 30 volunteers will shave their heads to raise
money for childhood cancer research.
The Norwich St. Baldrick’s event routinely raises over $30,000 a year,
their event starts at 6:00 PM, it is free and open to the public, more
information is available at stbaldricks.org/events/Norwich

The
Sidney Rotary Club announced that they are cancelling their Pancake Breakfast
Saturday.  The event is being cancelled
due to the Coronavirus concerns.

The
American Hockey League announced the suspension of play until further notice
due to the COVID-19 health and safety concerns of players, officials, staff and
fans.  The Binghamton Devils will post
pertinent ticketing information to social media, as well as send email updates
directly to season ticket members, sponsors and group buyers. More information
is available at the Binghamton Devils Front Office at 722-7367.

Norwich Police arrested 49 year old Rebecca Evans for grand larceny and forgery, for allegedly stealing property worth more than $3,000 and about $7,600 in cash from the Norwich Purple Tornado Community Team. The thefts began in July 2016, while Evans served as treasurer; She was released on her own recognizance and ordered back in Norwich City Court at a later date.

21-year-old Jabari Ashe was found guilty today in Broome County Court, for the April 2017 murder of Tyquan Gumbs according to the Broome County District Attorney's Office says the jury found Jabari Ashe guilty of murder in Broome County Court on Friday. Ashe was found guilty of the fatal shooting of Gumbs, whose body was found behind a residence on Fayette Street in Binghamton last year.

The Otsego County Chamber of Commerce announced that this year’s recipient of the Distinguished Business Award is NBT Bank. NBT Bank has 58 employees in the county & in 2017; NBT Bank marked its 20th business anniversary in Oneonta and Otsego County. The Otsego County Chamber of Commerce will host this celebration on Thursday, May 3rd beginning at 5:45 PM at The Foothills Performing Arts Center in the Atrium.

More than 5,750 consumers have received rebates to buy electric cars in New York since the State’s Drive Clean Rebate was launched a year ago. The Program provides residents with a rebate of up to $2,000 for the purchase or lease of a new electric car from participating dealers. Most of the consumers were on Long Island, or in Mid-Hudson valley region, only 217 rebates or 3.8% came from the Central New York region. More than 10,000 electric cars were sold in New York in 2017, a 67% increase over 2016.

DCMO BOCES announced that the 2018 Educational Forum will be held on April 12th, at the Sidney Central School Auditorium. Reservations are requested By April 2nd through dcmoboces.com

The State Department of Health announced that for the 4th consecutive week, the number of laboratory confirmed influenza cases has decreased. Last week 3,005 laboratory confirmed influenza cases were reported, the number of weekly hospitalizations decreased for the 6th consecutive week, with 493 New Yorkers hospitalized. Since December, 20,612 people have been hospitalized with influenza, there have been 5 pediatric influenza-associated deaths this flu season.

The St. Baldrick’s Foundation will host their head-shaving event in Norwich Saturday, where 3 dozen volunteers will shave their heads to raise money for lifesaving childhood cancer research. The Norwich St. Baldrick’s event starts at 6 pm at the American Legion Post 189 Banquet Hall, 29 Sheldon Street, Norwich. The event is free and open to the public.

The Blizzard of 2017 is continuing & is likely to continue beyond the early expectations, according to Sidney High School Science Teacher & Meteorologist Rich Townsend:

(Rich Townsend 3-14-17)

All Area Roads are closed in the Tri County Area except for Emergency Personnel, The Blizzard Warning remains in effect through 11:00 PM tonight.

Governor Cuomo said that emergency responders around the state kept the state's Citizens safe, due to advance preparation before today's storm, he gave an update earlier this afternoon:

(Cuomo 3-14-17)

The governor's office says the state has called up 2,000 National Guard members and will deploy them to the Southern Tier, after the storm tracked further west than initially anticipated.

State Senator Fred Akshar released the results of his Constituents Survey; he discussed some of the results with WCDO:

(Fred Akshar 3-14-17)

Akshar said that he received over 9600 responses to his recent survey. The closest question on the survey regarding decriminalizing Marijuana was split 50/50.

The State Department of Labor released preliminary local unemployment rates for January. The number of private sector jobs in the State was over 8 Million, & the State’s unemployment rate decreased 2 10ths to 4.6%. Locally, Delaware County was at 6.6%, Chenango County, had 6.2%, & Otsego County was at 6.1% for January.

Governor Cuomo today reminded New Yorkers who need help paying their heating bills to apply to the Home Energy Assistance Program by Friday, March 17. Nearly 1.3 million households have already received help heating their homes this winter through the program. Households eligible for HEAP can receive one regular benefit per year, of up to $626, depending on income, household size and heating source.

The Annual St. Baldrick fundraiser held Saturday in Norwich, raised about $27,000 for childhood cancer research. Officials believe that another $3,000 could come in on top of what was raised at Saturday’s event at the Norwich American Legion. Over 2 dozen people had their heads shaved at the fundraiser.

Governor Cuomo declared a state of emergency across all 62 counties in New York. The Governor also directed non-essential state employees impacted by the winter storm to stay home from work on Today. All New Yorkers should exercise caution, avoid unnecessary travel and pay close attention to winter storm advisories as the day progresses.

Attorney General Eric Schneiderman issued a consumer alert warning both consumers and businesses about price gouging during this week's storm. General Business Law prohibits excessive increases in prices of essential goods and services like food, water, gas, generators, batteries, and flashlights, hotel lodging, and transportation, during natural disasters or other events that disrupt the market. During and after severe winter weather events, these goods and services might also include snow plowing, snow removal from roofs, shovels and other snow removal equipment, salt, and contract services for storm-related damage. Any New Yorkers who believe they have been the victim of price gauging should call the Attorney General's office at 800-771-7755 or visit www.ag.ny.gov/price-gouging-complaint-form to file a complaint.

Broome County Sheriff's Department arrested a Binghamton man, who was found possessing a large amount of construction materials in his SUV. 28 year old Kole Rose was charged with criminal possession of stolen property, he was released pending future court action.

Governor Cuomo today announced that New York State's high school student smoking rate in 2016 was the lowest on record at 4.3%, down from 27.1% in 2000. A survey recently released by the State Department of Health also found that e-cigarette use by high school students nearly doubled in the last 2 years from 10.5% in 2014 to 20.6% in 2016. According to a 2016 report by the U.S. Surgeon General, the number of high school students using e-cigarettes soared 900 percent between 2011 and 2015, becoming the most commonly used form of nicotine among youths.

The Otsego County Board of Representatives has requested an employee file from Otsego County Sheriff Richard Devlin. The board wants to review potential violations of the county’s workplace violence prevention program & what if any disciplinary actions were taken, regarding the sheriff’s son, Corrections Officer Ross Devlin. Vice Chairman of the County Board of Representatives Ed Frazier of Unadilla told WCDO News that Ross Devlin’s Superiors came to the board:

(Ed Frazier 3-10-17)

Sheriff Devlin told WCDO News what actions he has taken to resolve the issue:

(Richard Devlin 3-10-17)

Ed Frazier also said that during their workplace violence investigation, other information came to light regarding disciplinary procedures and treatment of inmates at the Otsego County Jail.

Oneonta Police were dispatched Wednesday to a reported attempted home invasion robbery at 306 Chestnut Street. 3 men reportedly arrived in a dark colored sedan; one of the men was described as a “young black male” with short hair. The initial officers noted a powerful odor of marihuana in the dwelling. A search warrant was obtained & executed & 4 pounds of marihuana and over $14,000 cash was seized. Police arrested 25 year old Edwin Milette of Oneonta for Criminal possession of marihuana, the investigation into the alleged burglary is continuing. Milette was arraigned in Oneonta City Court and was remanded to the custody of the Otsego County Sheriff on $15,000 cash bail or $30,000 bond.

The Sidney High School and the Tri Town Coalition on Substance Abuse prevention will hold a substance abuse education night on Wednesday march 22nd at 6:00 PM. Community Members, families & students of the Sidney, Bainbridge & Unadilla areas are encouraged to attend; free dinner will be served by the Sidney school. Pre-Registration is encouraged at 561-7707.

The 64th Sidney Rotary Pancake Breakfast will be served Saturday at the River Street Fire Station Training Center in Sidney. Breakfast will be served from 7:00 AM to 1:00 PM; proceeds will benefit community service projects.

The St. Baldrick’s Foundation of Norwich will host a head-shaving event Saturday, at the American Legion, 29 Sheldon Street, Norwich. About 2 dozen people will have their heads shaved in solidarity with children with cancer and raise money to Conquer Childhood Cancers. The event starts at 6 pm in the banquet hall of the Legion. It is free and the public is invited to attend.

State Senator Fred Akshar told WCDO that he will hold 2 Town Hall Meetings with Constituents Saturday, first in Hancock & then in Windsor:

(Fred Akshar 3-1017)

Senator Akshar said that the received over 10,000 responses to his recent survey, the results will be released in the next few days.

The annual Train Show in Binghamton will be held this Saturday. The show is sponsored by Village Train & Hobby of Windsor, owner Jeff Olin comments:

(Jeff Olin 3-10-17)

The show will once again by held at the American Legion on Robinson Street in Binghamton, from 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM Saturday.

Governor Cuomo today announced $17 million in awards to nonprofit organizations and municipalities to create more than 700 affordable homes and new home ownership opportunities throughout the state. An announcement for the Southern tier will include more than $1 million to improve and repair the homes of 46 residents in the Southern Tier; it includes $400,000 for Opportunities for Chenango, to provide rehabilitation and energy conversation measures to 16 low-income households.

Governor Cuomo today announced the expansion of the New York State Master Teacher Program. The current 623 Master Teachers have an average teaching experience of 14 years. To be eligible for application to the NYS Master Teacher Program, teachers must be certified New York State public school teachers in grades six through twelve, have a minimum of 4 years of experience teaching STEM subjects and must spend at least 60 percent of their time in the classroom teaching those subjects. Additional information about the Master Teacher Program and the application requirements and process is available at www.suny.edu/masterteacher.

Binghamton Mets New Owner John Hughes announced that the team would remain as a New York met Affiliate, but he is soliciting ideas from fans to rebrand the team & give it a new name synonymous with the Greater Binghamton Area. Hughes revealed the Double-A affiliate of the New York Mets would play at NYSEG Stadium under a new name starting in 2017. The team will launch a “Name the Team” contest on Opening Day, April 7. Submissions will be accepted through April 25th, when the top 6 possible team names will be unveiled. Fans can vote for their favorite name for two weeks via the team website. The new official name of the Double-A Mets will be revealed in October 2016.

The 63rd annual Sidney Rotary Club Pancake Day tomorrow at the River Street Fire Station in Sidney from 7:00 AM to 1:00 PM.

The Delaware County Sheriff’s Department announced that there will be a fundraiser this Sunday in Walton, to support their K9 Unit, which has been an integral part of the County’s crackdown on Drug dealers in the County. The fundraiser will be held on Sunday at Danny’s Restaurant at 14 Gardiner Place in Walton from 12:00 noon until 7:00 PM, donations can be made by check to Delaware County Sheriff Tom Mills, with “K9 Drug Fund” in the memo box. More information about the fundraiser can be directed to Danny’s restaurant at 865-8496.

Doctor Stephen Benham of Sidney announced his retirement and the closing of his practice, effective march 24th after 32 years in Sidney. Doctor Benham will see patients until the March 24th date, at which point all of his patients medical charts will be transferred and located at the UHS Primary care building at 44 Pearl Street, across for Tri Town regional Hospital. Patients wishing to have their medical records copied or sent to another health care provider should call Benham’s office at 563-7477 until march 24th, and to the UHS Sidney office at 561-2200 after that date.

The City of Oneonta Department of Public Service will be installing a new storm water collection system on Tilley Avenue & Walters street and they will be replacing an existing system on James Street, starting on march 15th. Work will take place between 7:00 AM to 6:00 PM weekdays through April 30th, with paving scheduled for this summer. More information is available at 432-2100.

State Police reported that KyLea Fortner and her sister Shaeleen Fitch-Fortner, who were reported as teen runaways in April of 2015, were found at 327 Torrance Avenue in Vestal. Both girls were turned over to the Broome County Family Services. State Police received and investigated numerous leads, information was developed which indicated that they were present at the Vestal address. State Police arrested 29 year old Amanda Hellman of Vestal, for 2nd degree Kidnapping. Hellman is a family acquaintance of the victims, she was arraigned in Town of Vestal Court & was remanded to the Broome County Jail without bail. Anyone with information can call 775-1241, The investigation is continuing.

State Police and local law enforcement will initiate special St. Patrick’s Day traffic enforcement efforts as celebrations begin this weekend. The effort will begin Saturday, and run through Thursday, drivers can expect a number of sobriety checkpoints, additional DWI patrols, and underage drinking details during the campaign. State Police will also be ticketing distracted drivers who use handheld electronic devices. During the 2015 St. Patrick's Day weekend enforcement effort, Troopers made 264 arrests for DWI and issued more than 14,000 tickets.

With Daylight Savings Time approaching this weekend, The Firefighters Association of New York encourages all New Yorkers to test their smoke and carbon monoxide alarms and ensure their homes are properly protected against fire. Alarms with removable batteries should be replaced; residents possessing alarms equipped with sealed-in batteries should test the alarms to ensure they are in proper working condition. more information is available at fasny.com and nfpa.org.

The Chenango Arts Council announced their 1st Chenango Student Art Competition. The opening reception will be held on Friday, March 11th at 5:30 pm in the Mariea Brown and Raymond Loft Gallery at 27 West Main Street, Norwich, it is free and open to the public. Awards will be presented at 6:00 pm; more information is available at 336-ARTS or ChenangoArts.org.

Mike Piazza spent the last couple of days in upstate New York, visiting the Baseball Hall of fame in Cooperstown, where he will be inducted this summer. He was also honored by Governor Cuomo at the executive mansion in Albany Thursday:

(Piazza 3-10-16)

Piazza will be inducted into the national Baseball Hall Of Fame with Ken Griffey Junior in July.

Budget negotiations continue among lawmakers in Albany with Conference Committee activity beginning next week. State lawmakers are dealing with a budget surplus this year, Area Assemblyman Cliff Crouch Comments:

(Crouch 3-10-16)

Crouch said that the surplus includes 1 time settlement money, which he hopes will be used for infrastructure projects upstate, where 40% of the bridges are in need of repair or replacement.

Constitution Pipeline Company announced today that they are changing the projected start of service from the 4th quarter of this year to the 2nd half of 2017. The company says it won't be able to complete tree-clearing before the end of March; they have completed tree-felling along the Pennsylvania leg of the project, New York work will not begin until state regulators issue a water quality certification. The Constitution Pipeline would be a 124-mile of natural gas pipeline from Pennsylvania through the southern Tier for distribution into the New England markets.

The State Department of Environmental Conservation and local Fire Departments remind area residents that the annual burn ban will be in effect from March 16th to May 14th. The DEC prohibits outdoor residential burning during the high-risk fire season to reduce the number of wildfires and protect people, property and natural resources. Since being enacted in 2009, the ban has been effective in reducing the number of wildfires. More information is available at dec.ny.gov.

The Saint Baldrick's Foundation will hold one of their head shaving events on Saturday at the American Legion Hall at 29 Sheldon Street in Norwich at 6:00 PM. About 45 people are expected to get their head shaved to show solidarity with children with cancer, and to raise money to conquer childhood cancers. More information is available at stbaldricks.org/events/Norwich, or that the Norwich Saint Baldricks facebook page.

Nearly a thousand people will come to Broome County this summer to take part in the 98th annual New York State American Legion Convention, as well as the 96th annual New York State Auxiliary Convention and the 42nd annual Sons of the American Legion Convention. The conventions will take place from Thursday, July 13th through Saturday, July 16th; The Holiday Inn in Downtown Binghamton, along with the Floyd L. Maines Veterans Memorial Arena will serve as the headquarters for the Legion Convention.

The Broome County Sheriff's Office & New York State Parole arrested 3 people on drug charges at a motel in the Town of Dickinson during a parole Check. Deputies found the parolee & 2 females, as well as cocaine, hypodermic needles, packaging material, Marihuana & heroin. 23-year-old Odell Tindley from the Bronx & Binghamton was charged with Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance, he was sent to the Broome County Jail on the parole warrant & will be arraigned at a later date. 22-year-old Rochelle Landon Of Newfield and 20-year-old Hanna Lecoq Of Interlaken were both charged with Criminal Possession of a Controlled substance, and Unlawful Possession of Marihuana Violation. They were released on appearance ticket for the Town of Dickinson Court.

The Chenango County Sheriff's Office & Sherburne Police investigated incidents of criminal mischief and larceny, on March 8the & 9th. The investigation began with the report of a motor vehicle crash in the Town of Smyrna, the occupants of the vehicle left the scene, and the vehicle was stolen from Sherburne. Information led to the arrest of a 15 year old male & 17 year old Michael Wilson, of Sherburne. The pair is accused of stealing the vehicle; spray painting vehicles, school buildings, and residences & stealing items from vehicles. Both were charged for multiple counts of Grand Larceny, Petty Larceny, and Criminal Mischief, the amount of damage and stolen property is approximately $15,000.00 The 15 year old male was released on a juvenile appearance ticket and Michael Wilson is being arraigned in the Village of Sherburne Court. The investigation is continuing and the Sheriff's Office is asking anyone with information to call 337-1931 or 334-2000 option 1.

The village of Bainbridge Board of Trustees will hold a special meeting today at 4:30 PM at the village office at 33 West Main Street. The Purpose of the meeting will be to discuss the 2016-2017 Village Budget; the meeting is open to the public.

The Cuomo Administration will host the Citizen Preparedness Corps Training Program tomorrow at the will take place tomorrow at the Events Center at SUNY Binghamton.   The program looks to provide 100,000 New Yorkers with the tools and resources to prepare for emergencies and disasters; Pre-registration for the training session is available at prepare.ny.gov.

A raccoon has tested positive for rabies in Delaware County. This is the first animal testing positive for rabies in 2014.  The raccoon attacked a dog in the village of Stamford; the raccoon was dispatched and sent to NYS State Rabies Laboratory for testing. The owner of the dog reported that the incident occurred during the day, a strange behavior for raccoons. To report a suspected rabid animal call Delaware County Public Health Services at 832-5200, more information is available at delawarecountypublichealth.com

Commerce Chenango will hold Lunch with State Senator Tom Libous today at the Sherwood Hotel at 25 Genesee Street, Greene, beginning at 11:30 AM.  Libous will discuss legislative action in Albany.

Tomorrow the Norwich Family YMCA will be the location for Chenango County Habitat for Humanity's 3rd annual Souper bowl fundraiser from 4:00 to 6:00 p.m. 31 different soups from 26 area restaurants will be featured, proceeds will help to support Chenango County’s Habitat for Humanity, more information is Online at habitat.chenango.org or 656-8155.

The St. Baldrick’s Foundation will host a head-shaving event at the American Legion in Norwich tomorrow to raise money to Conquer Childhood Cancers.  The event starts at 4:00 pm, in the past 9 years; over $160,000 has been raised locally for childhood cancer research. Donations are also possible at stbaldricks.org/events/Norwich.

Assemblyman Cliff Crouch will host another forum on SATURDAY from 9:00 A.M. TO 11:00 A.M. about the NY SAFE Act at Walton Central School. Crouch will be joined by Delaware County Sheriff Thomas Mills and Delaware County Clerk Sharon O'Dell.

State troopers in Oneonta arrested Samir Champaneri of Illinois for Felony Driving While Intoxicated with a child less then 15 years of age in the vehicle, Endangering the Welfare of a Child and Consumption of an Alcoholic Beverage in a Motor Vehicle. The arrest resulted from a traffic stop on State Route 28 in Oneonta, Champaneri was arraigned in Oneonta Town Court and remanded to the Otsego County Jail in lieu of $2,500.00 cash bail/bond. He is scheduled to reappear before the Town of Oneonta Court on August 22nd.

State Troopers arrested 32-year-old Reginald Bridgeforth of Oneonta for 3rd degree Attempted Assault and Trespassing. The arrest resulted from an investigation into a reported altercation on Pine Cliff Circle in the Town of Davenport, Bridgeforth was arraigned before the Town of Davenport Court and remanded to the Delaware County Jail in lieu of $8,000.00 cash bail/ $16,000.00 bond, and he will appear in the Town of Oneonta Court on July 23rd.

Tonight at 9:00 pm The Shire Pub in Delhi will be hosting a fundraiser for Habitat of Delaware County. Local band Betwixt Bothered & Bewildered will perform. Habitat for Humanity of Delaware County officials are planning for a building project in the Delhi area. Additional information regarding Habitat for Humanity of Delaware County is available by accessing delawarecountyhabitat.org or at 746-9987.

The annual Chenango County Republican Committee Lobsterfest will be held this Sunday in Norwich. The event will run from 12:00 noon until 4:00 PM at the Canasawacta country club in Norwich, the event is a top fundraiser for republican candidates for a variety of races involving Chenango county offices.

Local organizers announced the inaugural 5K Run-Walk through the City of Norwich to support the St. Baldrick's Foundation for childhood cancer research. The 5K run/walk will be held on Saturday, September 28th where it will start and end at East Park, in the City of Norwich at 9:00 am. Registration is available at stbaldricks.org/events/2013Norwich5K.

The Ottawa Senators announced today that they have signed Binghamton Senators head coach Luke Richardson to a one-year contract extension. Also receiving one-year extensions are assistant coaches Steve Stirling and Matt Meacham. Richardson led an inexperienced Binghamton team to a 44-24-1-7 record in his rookie season as a head coach, finishing fourth in the AHL's Eastern Conference.