WCDO Radio News

Delaware County Sheriff's Office arrested 30 year old Nicholas Kahl of Middle Island following an investigation of a larceny complaint. On March 22nd, Deputies were dispatched to a complaint in Hamden, it was discovered that Kahl allegedly stole a tractor from a property without the owner’s consent. Deputies arrested Kahl for Grand Larceny, he was transported to the Delaware County Correctional Facility to await Arraignment.

The 4th annual Nate Lull Scholarship is available and applications for current High School Seniors can be accessed, Lull Commented about this year's scholarship & process:

(Nate Lull 3-26-26)

4 boys & 4 girls will receive scholarships, which will be announced in the week leading up to graduations in June, go to natelull.com for more information.

State Comptroller Tom DiNapoli announced that Wall Street’s securities industry bonus pool reached a record $49.2 billion in 2025, up 9% from the previous year, while the average bonus rose 6% to $246,900. The increases reflect a rise of more than 30% in Wall Street’s profits, which totaled $65.1 billion in 2025. Wall Street accounted for 19.4% of the state’s tax collections in the current State Fiscal Year.

State Police arrested 62 year old Frank Kovacs of Laurens, on a warrant for 8 counts of Rape, 3 counts of Criminal Sex Act, 3 counts of Sexual Abuse, Investigators received information pertaining to the rape and sexual assault of a child in Saratoga County from 2008 until 2011 in Clifton Park. Kovacs was arrested at his place of employment in Oneonta, and was transported to State Police in Clifton Park for processing. He was then arraigned at the Clifton Park Town Court where he was remanded to the Saratoga County Correctional Facility on $50,000 cash bail, a $250,000 bond, or a $500,000 partially secured bond. In June 2025, Kovacs was arrested by State Police for rape and sex abuse charges following a Otsego County grand jury indictment, this arrest is a continuation of that investigation. Kovacs is also mayor of the village of Laurens.

Chobani announced that they awarded $400,000 in grants to 40 nonprofit groups through the eighth annual Community Impact Fund. The grants will go to organizations in Central New York, Idaho, Philadelphia and Muskegon Michigan. Locally, the Afton Central Schools will use the funds to build a greenhouse for agricultural education and to supply fresh produce for the FFA Food Pantry. The Food Bank of Central New York will support its Senior Grocery Program, the Norwich City School District will expand its backpack program, the Oneonta Middle School will provide grocery gift cards to families throughout the year, and the Cooperstown Food Pantry will use its grant to offer year-round farmers market vouchers, SNAP matching and CSA shares from regional farms.

The Sidney Police Department has added K9 Chase, to the department, he is handled by Officer Royce Terry & he is a 1 year old Dutch Shepherd. Officer Terry told WCDO news about his new canine partner, and how the community support by area businesses, private donations, & the Sidney Central School district has been outstanding:

(Royce Terry 10-16-25)

K9 Chase replaces K9 Riggs who was retired as a police dog this month, but will continue to live with Officer Terry's family, the program has no cost to taxpayers and Chase will be ready for his position in February.

City of Oneonta officials are asking city residents around the SUNY Oneonta campus to Boil their water before using. on Wednesday the water system lost pressure due to the isolation of a broken water main on East Dormitory Road near the intersection of Bugbee Road on the SUNY Oneonta Campus, which could lead to untreated water containing harmful microbes. For more information, contact the City Department of Public Works at (607) 432-2100, or the State Department of Health at (607) 432-3911.

A.M. NEWS Thursday 10-16-25

NYSEG will be holding a public statement hearing at SUNY Oneonta on Thursday, October 16th at 1:00pm in the Morris Conference Center, for the purpose of receiving comments concerning the proposed changes in the electric and gas delivery rates and practices and the proposed closure of certain walk-in office locations operated by the Company.

State tax receipts totaled $59.9 billion through September, the middle of State Fiscal Year, $702.2 million higher than financial plan estimates from the Division of Budget, according to State Comptroller Tom DiNapoli. State tax collections through September were $5.2 billion higher than those through the same period last year. The Full Report can be found at osc.ny.gov.

Gilbertville Mount Upton Superintendent Annette Hammond announced that she will retire following the completion of her 10th year as superintendent and 16th overall at GMU. Hammond became GMU’s middle/high school principal in August 2009, and was named superintendent in August 2015. The District will begin conducting a search for a new Superintendent shortly.

CORNELL COOPERATIVE EXTENSION IS HAVING A FREE ENERGY WORKSHOP today from 5:30 TO 7:00 PM, AT THE COOPERATIVE EXTENSION CHENANGO OFFICE AT 99 NORTH BROAD STREET IN NORWICH. RSVP's are encouraged at 607-366-0833.

A.M. NEWS WEDNESDAY 1-22-25

State Police responded yesterday afternoon to at about 3:50 pm to a 3-vehicle crash at the intersection of State Highway 7 and County Highway 9 in the town of Oneonta. A preliminary investigation determined that a BMW was traveling on State Highway 7 when it struck a Toyota from behind while the Toyota was waiting to turn left onto County Highway 9, the Toyota was pushed into the path of a Chevrolet SUV and they collided head-on. The operator of the BMW, a 76-year-old male was pronounced deceased on scene, it is unknown at this time whether he died as a result of the collision or if he suffered a medical event. The operator of the Toyota, a 24-year-old male was transported to A.O Fox Hospital, The operator of the Chevrolet SUV, a 52-year-old male with 3 children were checked out on scene but not transported. The investigation is on-going.

American Red Cross Blood Drives are continuing, a drive will be held today from 1:00 to 6:00 PM at the Foothills Performing Arts Center on Market Street in Oneonta, appointments can be made at 1-800 REDCROSS, with the blood donor app or at redcrossblood.org.

P.M. NEWS THURSDAY 10-31-24

The Bainbridge Guilford School District will hold a Veterans Day breakfast next week, BG Superintendent Tim Ryan explains:

(Tim Ryan 10-31-24)

Veterans interested in participating can RSVP to the District office at 607-967-6321.

The Delaware County Chamber of Commerce announced the launch of the 2025 National Civics Bee, aimed at encouraging more young Americans to engage in civics and contribute to their communities. Middle school students in 6th, 7th, and 8th grade from public, private, charter, and home schools from across New York State are invited to take part in the first-round civics essay competition. The Delaware County Chamber will host its local competition in the spring of 2025. Winners from each of the local competitions across New York will be invited to take part in the state finals. More information is available under the Event and Programs tab at DelawareCounty.org.

The American Red Cross will hold a blood drive from 12 pm. - 5 pm., at the State University in Oneonta, in the Hunt College Union. to make an appointment, download the American Red Cross Blood Donor App, visit RedCrossBlood.org, call 1-800-RED CROSS.

Otsego County announces an open-competitive examination for Deputy Sheriff, with the Examination Date on September 28, tomorrow, August 29th is the last day to file. Applicants must have a high school diploma or a New York State Equivalency diploma, application are available at otsego-portal.mycivilservice.com/exams

A.M. NEWS Wednesday 8-28-24

State Police & the Delaware County District Attorney’s office announced that a Delaware County Grand Jury has indicted 27 year old James Christ Jr. of Deposit for 2nd degree Murder, among other charges in connection with the death of a 3 year old child. The child’s mother, Marielys Ramos of Unadilla has been indicted on Reckless Endangerment and Endangering the Welfare of a Child, both are currently at the Delaware County Correctional Facility, pending arraignment. State Police arrested Christ in May, after they were dispatched to Fair Street in Deposit for the report of an unresponsive child, it was determined that Christ recklessly caused the death of the child.

State Police responded Sunday to Route 17C in Barton for a NYSEG utility pole broke that was attached to power lines. Power lines and a portion of the pole fell onto Route 17C, 3 people were injured. Troopers determined that a live wire fell onto the middle of the roadway when several motorcycles were coming down the roadway. The wire struck the passenger on the back of 1 motorcycle, the bike then overturned. The 62-year-old male driver and a 63-year-old female both of Athens, Pennsylvania were transported by ambulance to Guthrie Robert Packer Hospital. A 70-year-old male driver and a 79-year-old female passenger from Sayre, were on another motorcycle and in an attempt to avoid the bike in front of them, went off the roadway. The driver of that motorcycle was also transported to Packer Hospital.

Mallinckrodt Pharmaceuticals of Hobart is hosting a Job Fair at the Quality Inn of on Route 23 in Oneonta today, from 3:00 to 6:00 6:00 Pm, with about 25 businesses also on hand looking for prospective employees, Mallinckrodt spokesperson Aneta Miller explains what kind of candidates they are looking for:

(Aneta Miller 8-28-24)

More information about careers at Mallinckrodt are available at mallinckrodt.com/careers.

Norwich City School District Superintendent Scott Ryan announced that This morning at 10:13 am, the lock-down system was activated the Middle School and High School campus. This activation was not planned. Our safety team followed all of the procedures and protocols. Each building on the MS/HS campus has been declared safe and free of threat by the Norwich Police Department and our safety team. At 11:30 a.m. the campus was restored to full activity.

An American Red Cross Blood Drive will be held today at the Southside Mall YMCA in Oneonta from 1:00 to 6:00 PM. Appointments can be made with the Red Cross Blood Donor App, at Redcrsossblood.org or by calling 1-800 RED CROSS.

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.

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.

P.M. NEWS MONDAY 7-10-23

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

(Shelly Johnson-Bennett 7-10-23)

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

The Broome County Sheriff's Office arrested 55 year old Daniel Erickson of Greene, who was the Principal of Johnson City Middle School, & who has been charged with luring a child and 3rd degree attempted rape. On Friday, Detectives arrested Erickson following an investigation into suspicious behavior involving a minor that attends Johnson City High School. Erickson is accused of communicating by Snapchat with a 16-year-old female student, he agreed to meet with her in a remote location with the intentions of engaging in sexual acts, however, detectives were at there and he was taken into custody without incident. Erickson was taken to Central Arraignment, he was remanded to the Correctional Facility without bail. The investigation is currently ongoing.

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

A.M. NEWS MONDAY 7-10-23

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

The Seattle Mariners selected Right Handed Pitcher Teddy McGraw of Oneonta & Wake Forest, in the 3rd round of the Major League Baseball Draft Monday. WCDO Sports Director Nate Lull comments:

(Nate Lull 7-10-23)

McGraw didn’t pitch this season for Wake Forest due to the most recent Tommy John Surgery, McGraw was interviewed on a recent Nate Lull Podcast, available at natelull.com, through the WCDO website or at any of the popular podcast apps.

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

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

A.M. NEWS Thursday 6-1-23

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

(Dr. Rohan Jayasena 6-1-23)

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

(Sean LaRose 6-1-23)

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

(Kyle Westcott 6-1-23)

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

P.M. N EWS MONDAY 5-22-23

32 year-old Courtni Baker of Sidney pleaded guilty in Delaware County Court today to charges relating to a February 15th accident, where Baker struck 14-year-old Anielle “AK” McEwan-Lomnicki as she was walking home from Sidney middle school. Delaware County Acting District Attorney Shawn Smith told WCDO news about the verdict:

(DA Shawn Smith 5-22-23)

Baker registered a .24 blood alcohol content, three times the legal limit at the time of her arrest, Smith said that Baker faces 4 to 12 years in prison at her sentencing on September 25th.

Otsego County Sheriff's Office aarested 28 year old Joseph Spataro of Otego following a welfare check investigation in the Town of Oneonta. Spataro was chargeedd with Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance, DWI, Unlicensed Operator, Driving While Ability Impaired by Drugs & Aggravated Unlicensed Operation of a mtoro vehicle, Spataro is accused of operating a motor vehicle while impaired and in possession of drugs, he was issued an appearance ticket for the Oneonta Town Court on a later date.

A.M. NEWS MONDAY 5-22-23

The Otsego County Sheriff’s Office arrested 48 year old Richard Sherman of Guilford following a motor vehicle accident on State Highway 51 in the Town of Morris. Sherman was arrested for Driving While Intoxicated , Speed not reasonable and prudent, Failure to Keep Right among other charges, Sherman will appear in Town of Morris Court on May 22, 2023 at 3:00pm.

SUNY Oneonta held their 134th commencement ceremonies Saturday. The class of 2023 was honored with three separate graduation ceremonies at the Dewar Arena in the Alumni Field House. Also, Over 250 students participated in the 91st commencement ceremonies at Hartwick College Saturday morning.

The Otsego County Sheriff’s Office arrested a juvenile following an incident Monday that occurred in an Otsego County school. The investigation revealed that the juvenile subjected another student to unwanted physical contact in a bathroom at the school. Due to their age, the defendant was issued an Appearance Ticket returnable to the Otsego County Probation Department. The unidentified student was charged with Unlawful Imprisonment, Obstruction of Breathing & Forcible Touching

The Gus Macker 3-on-3 Basketball Tournament in Norwich will be back this summer July 8th and 9th in the parking lot at the Norwich High School and Middle School. Organizer Tom Revoir said that they are hoping to approach pre-pandemic numbers for teams participating this year:

(Tom Revoir 3-9-23)

Revoir said that there are 3 divisions: Junior Divisions (18 years of age and below), Adult Divisions (19 years of age and above), and Top Divisions (Most experienced level of play). More information is available at Macker.com.

A.M. NEWS Thursday 3-9-23

Delaware County Sheriff's Office arrested 35 year old Michael Catapano of Oneonta for DWI, following the report of an accident Sunday on State Highway 28, near Frank Slawson Road in the Town of Franklin. Deputies observed a vehicle that had left the roadway and came to rest in the Ditch. Deputies charged Michael Catapano with DWI, Driving with a BAC greater than 0.08%, Failure to keep Right, Catapano was released on uniform traffic summons returnable to the Town of Franklin Court.

State Police were called to the Oneonta Walmart for a report of a larceny in progress. 38 year old Joseph Murray of Rome allegedly took items from the store without paying and loaded them into a truck, Police determined that 33 year old John Grass of Rome was still in the store taking more items. Grass provided Troopers with a false name, and it was found that he had a warrant out of the Oneida County Sheriff’s Office. Murray and Grass were both charged with Grand Larceny, Grass was also charged with Obstruction of Governmental Administration 2nd degree and False Personation, he was turned over to the Oneida County Sheriff’s Office. Murray and Grass were both given appearance tickets and are due to appear in the town of Oneonta Court on March 21, 2023.

The Mid York Concert Band is looking for more musicians to join, as they prepare for their Spring Concert on Sunday, May 21,, at 2:o0 PM in the Norwich High School Auditorium. Band Director Doug Ernst told WCDO news what they are looking for:

(Doug Ernst 1-30-23)

Ernst said that the next rehearsals will be Tuesday Night at 7:00 PM in the Norwich Middle School Band room, followed by rehearsals on February 7th & 14th, more information is available by calling Ernst at 607-263-2618 or by email: midyorkband@gmail.com.

A Red Cross Blood Drive is being held in Oneonta today. The drive will run from 1:00 to 6:00 PM at the Quality Inn, State Highway 23, appointments can be made at RedCrossBlood.org, download the Red Cross Blood Donor App, or call 1-800-RED CROSS.

Sidney 7th grader Isabella Phelps competed in the first ever New York State High School Girls Wrestling Tournament on Friday in Syracuse. She finished a 3rd overall in her weight class of 107 pounds. Bella's record was 5-1 for the one day event and she avenged her only loss by beating the same wrestler in the 3rd place match. More information on local results from the tournament, please visit Nate Lull dot com and click on the all-star tab.

Otsego County Sheriff's Office arrested 25 year old Brandon Loucks of Oneonta following a traffic stop in the Town of Maryland on January 21st. Loucks was charged with Aggravated Unlicensed Operation, Operating M/V with Suspended or Revoked Registration & Uninspected motor vehicle. Loucks will appear in the Town of Maryland Court at a later date.

Laurens Fire Fighters responded Sunday Morning to a fire in a garage on Brook Street, which spread to a shed and then to a building on Laurens Central School property. Surrounding structures suffered heat damage, no injuries have been reported, the cause of the fire is under investigation.

New York Voters will decide on Proposition 1 next week on election Day. Proposal 1 would issue $4.20 billion in general obligation bonds for projects classified as climate change mitigation, flood-risk reduction, water infrastructure, and land conservation and recreation. The ballot measure would require that bond issue revenue be distributed for air and water pollution reduction projects; wetland protections, flooding; green building projects; zero-emission school buses; plus water & sewer infrastructure projects.

Delaware County Sheriff's Office arrested 58 year old Floyd Moseman of East Meredith for driving with a suspended New York State Driver’s license. On October 26th, Deputies responded to a report of a male walking in the middle of the road on State Highway 28 in the Town of Delhi, the investigation revealed that Moseman had operated a Motor Vehicle until it became disabled, then started walking, a check of Moseman’s driver’s license revealed that his driving privileges were suspended in the State of New York. Moseman was charged with Aggravated Unlicensed Operation of a Motor Vehicle, he was released and is scheduled to appear in the Town of Delhi Court at a later date.

A.M. NEWS Wednesday 11-2-22

Broome County District Attorney Mike Korchak announced that Kristopher Duncan of Plattsburgh, pleaded guilty to Attempted Criminal Possession of a Weapon in Broome County Court this week. Duncan admitted to firing an unlicensed and loaded handgun in a room at the Comfort Inn on Upper Front Street in the Town of Dickinson on June 11th. No one was injured in the shooting. Duncan will be sentenced in January.

River Street in Oneonta will be limited to one lane of traffic Today & Tomorrow, as a private contractor will be working in front of 55 River Street on both days from 8 a.m. until 5 p.m. Drivers are reminded to pay attention to flaggers and temporary traffic control devices. For more information, please contact the Department of Public Works at 432-2100.

New Yorkers needing help paying their heating bills can begin applying for home heating assistance on Tuesday, November 1. The Home Energy Assistance Program, also known as HEAP, can provide up to $976 this winter to help low- and middle-income households and senior citizens, Nearly 1.7 million HEAP benefits were issued last winter, the highest in at least the past five years. Similar demand for assistance is expected again this winter. Applications can be found at mybenefits.ny.gov.

U.S. Senate Majority Leader Charles Schumer announced that Upstate New York will receive over $50 million in federal funding through the first round of the EPA's Clean School Bus Program to purchase over 130 brand new electric school buses. Locally, the Downsville central School District will receive over $395,000 for the purchase of 1 new electric school bus.

A.M. NEWS MONDAY 10-31-22

Today is Halloween, in Sidney trick or treating will be from 5:00 to 8:30, in Oneonta, trick or treating will be from 3:30 to 8:00 PM, with a parade on Main Street at 6:00 PM. In Bainbridge this year, a community Halloween Party Trunk or Treat will be held in the Village parking lot behind Bob's Diner, from 5:00 to 7:00 PM. In Unadilla, Trick or Treating with a costume parade will be held at the Unadilla Elementary School starting at 6:30 PM.

P.M. NEWS TUESDAY 8-16-22

Nicholas & Terry DeCutler were arraigned in Otsego County Court Monday on 2nd degree Murder charges. The Brothers are accused of fatally stabbing 24 year old Kaleb O'Neill in an alleyway at Dietz Street in Oneonta on Memorial Day. The DeCutler's were being held on Bail in the Otsego County Jail pending a court appearance on September 19th.

Norwich Middle School Principal Michelle Osterhoudt, has accepted the position of Superintendent of the Margaretville School District. Osterhoudt, of Oneonta will take over as the Margaretville Superintendent for the start of the new school year, she had served in the Norwich district for several years, she also served on the Oneonta Common Council and served various capacities for the Oneonta NAACP.

New York State has reverted to calling the "TASC" program back to it's original name "GED", for those interested in earning their High school Diploma, local Program director June White told WCDO News of the programs origins & of their current programs:

(June White 4-4-22)

White said that a home study course call "GRASP" is available for those who can't attend classes in person, more information about the GED programs is available by calling White at the Afton Central School at 639-2811.

Another Area Middle School student is heading to the National Spelling Bee in Washington in May, Martha Ryan of the DCMO Boces told WCDO News that local funds are needed to send Daanya Butt to DC:

( Martha Ryan 4-4-22)

Daanya Butt is a middle school student at the Oneonta Central School District, she recently won The Daily Star Spelling Bee, BG Student Melodie Loya went to the National Spelling Bee twice. More information is available by calling 334-7526.

The 28th annual Colorscape Chenango Arts Festival will be held September 10th & 11th in East and West Parks in Norwich in Norwich. 95 exhibitors will be at the annual Arts Festival, organizers are also inviting all high school art seniors in Chenango and adjacent counties to apply for Colorscape's 2022 Francis K. Wilcox Emerging Young Artist Scholarship. The application form is available at colorscape.org, The application deadline is June 17th.

P.M. NEWS FRIDAY 9-3-21

Governor Kathy Hochul announced that the Public Health and Health Planning Council passed an emergency regulation and the Health Commissioner issued a determination requiring all teachers, administrators and other school employees to submit to weekly COVID-19 testing unless they show proof of vaccination, with either a CDC vaccine card or the Excelsior Pass.   The Governor also announced that the State Department of Health has finalized and released official guidance for classroom instruction regarding Facemasks, which closely echoes the CDC guidance which districts were advised to follow. More information is available at coronavirus.health.ny.gov.

Bassett Healthcare Network will be showcasing its school-based health center at Gilbertsville-Mount Upton Central School with a ribbon-cutting on Tuesday, September 7, at 5:00 pm.  The event is being held in conjunction with the school’s annual open house, Bassett Healthcare Network President & CEO Dr. Tommy Ibrahim will offer remarks.   Available Care will include Annual physical exams, Immunizations, Diagnosis and treatment of both short-and long-term illnesses,   mental health services & Preventive dental care

The Mid York Concert band is looking for area musicians to join, with rehearsals starting this month in Norwich, Band conductor Mark Sands explains:

(Mark Sands 9-3-21)

Anyone interested in joining the band can call sands at 334-4307, or email him: Midyorkcb@gmail.com, rehearsals will start Tuesday September 14th from 7:00 to 9:00 PM at the Norwich Middle School band room.

The Friends of Recovery of Delaware & Otsego County announced the Rothenberger Run for Recovery event on Saturday at Neahwa Park in Oneonta, Spokesman Kyle LaFever explains:

(Kyle LaFever 9-3-21)

Registration for the virtual or in-person run is available at rothenbergerrun.itsyourrace.com/register; online registration will remain open until this morning at 9:00 AM. Day of registration will be held from 7:30am-8:30am in Neahwa Park on Saturday, September 4th. Packet Pickup will take place today from 3:00 to 6:00 PM, or at day of registration.

Chenango Arts Council is seeking memorabilia, yearbooks and other items from the years its 27 West Main Street location served as the Norwich City Middle and High Schools. Submitted items will be displayed in the gallery exhibit “Back to School”, and items will be returned once the show closes. Those interested in sharing their memorabilia will be please deliver it to the Council at 27 West Main Street, Norwich by September 10th, the exhibit will open with a public reception on Friday, September 17th at 5:30pm. The exhibit will run until October 1st. More information is available at 336-2787 or info@chenangoarts.org.

A.M. NEWS FRIDAY 8-27-21

The Chenango River Theater will be back with live performances today at the facility in Greene, Spokesman Bill Lelbach commented about the controversial topic of "Ben Butler":

(Bill Lelbach 8-27-21)

"Ben Butler" starts tonight & runs through September 19th at their facility in Greene, tickets for “Ben Butler” or the following show: “The Craftsman” are available at chenangorivertheatre.org.

An American Red Cross Blood drive will be held at the Sidney Fire department Training center on River Street today from 11:00 to 4:00 PM. A Blood drive is also being held today at the Elm Park Methodist Church on Chestnut Street in Oneonta from 9:00 AM to 2:00 PM, and a blood drive is also being held in Norwich today at the Broad Street Methodist Church from 9:00 AM to 2:00 PM. Registration is available at redcrossblood.org.

The Barstool Fund has been set up by Barstool Sports.com, to raise money for small businesses struggling to survive due to the pandemic.  Locally, Interskate 88 in Oneonta received substantial funding, owner Eric Nelson comments:

(Eric Nelson 1-25-21)

More information about contributing to the fund to help small businesses or what other small businesses received funds, go to barstoolsports.com.

A.M. NEWS MONDAY 1-25-21

The total week 6 federal allocation of vaccine delivery to providers was completed over the weekend.  New York's health care distribution sites have received 1,304,050 first doses and administered 88% or 1,144,000 first dose vaccinations.  Delivery of the week 7 allocation from the federal government does not begin until the middle of this week.

The Sidney central School district was notified that 2 6th grade students have tested positive for COVID-19. The last time the students were on campus was Tuesday, January 19th.  The Delaware County Health Department has conducted an investigation and the contact tracing has been completed. There will be no change to the instructional model.

SUNY Chancellor Jim Malatras joined SUNY Oneonta Acting President Dennis Craig Sunday to reopen campus for the spring semester.   On Sunday, students moved back to campus housing for pre-semester COVID testing and quarantining before the Spring Semester start date of in-person classes of February 1st.  The SUNY system has announced it will be increasing the frequency of mandatory COVID-19 testing at schools.  All students, staff, and faculty who frequent the campuses will be tested weekly for the start of the semester, prior to the start of in-person classes, there will be mandatory mask-wearing & there will be no Spring Break this semester.

Delaware Academy announced that a student tested positive for COVID 19, their middle and high schools moved to fully remote instruction yesterday & again today.  The student was last in attendance on Tuesday, November 24th; Students will be notified today regarding tomorrow's instructional plans.

The Latest vote count in the 22nd Congressional District has now swung back to give Republican Claudia Tenney the lead over incumbent Democrat Anthony Brindisi.  All of the Counties have to certify their vote totals, State Supreme Court Justice Scott DelConte ordered each of the 8 counties in the congressional district to submit a final, unofficial count to the court by yesterday afternoon, the next court action is expected next Monday December 7th, when Judge DelConte is expected to rule on

2000 disputed ballots.

A.M. NEWS TUESDAY 12-1-20

Governor Cuomo today announced New York's annual statewide holiday donation drive to benefit families in need across the state begins today.  Donations of new unwrapped toys, coats and school supplies are being sought to assist community-based organizations during the holiday giving season.  The Office of General Services has set up drop-off locations across the state through Wednesday, December 16.  COVID-19 protocols will be in place to ensure the safety of those dropping off donations including masks, social distancing, and access to hand sanitizer.  The drop-off locations include the Binghamton State Office Building, 44 Hawley St., Binghamton & the Homer Folks Facility, 28 Hill Street Oneonta.

Otsego County Department of Health reported 19 new COVID cases Monday, bringing them to 1314 total confirmed cases since March.  There are 89 active cases, 4 are hospitalized there have been 8 deaths, 764 cases are linked to SUNY Oneonta & 71 to Hartwick College.

P.M. NEWS THURSDAY 11-19-20

Otsego County Department of Health is announcing a potential COVID 19 exposure at the Copper Fox at 7 Market Street in Oneonta.  Anyone who spent time at the bar between November 12th through November 17th should monitor for symptoms, if you have developed symptoms, get tested and isolate yourself.  The Copper Fox is closed for a minimum of 7 days and all staff will be tested, more information is available at 547-4231.

Bassett Healthcare Network is tightening visitor restrictions at all of its hospitals and long-term care facilities as COVID-19 cases continue to rise regionally and statewide. Effective Monday, Nov. 23, 2020, only individuals considered essential to the medical care of a patient will be allowed at Bassett Medical Center, Cooperstown; A.O. Fox Hospital, in Sidney & Oneonta; Little Falls Hospital, Cobleskill Regional Hospital, and O’ Connor Hospital in Delhi.   Visitation is also suspended at the Bassett network’s two long-term care facilities and assisted living facilities – A.O. Fox Nursing Home in Oneonta, and Valley Health Services and Valley Residential Services in Herkimer.

The 14th annual Benefit Auction of the Greater Oneonta Historical Society takes place online at 32Auctions.com/GOHSBenefitAuction through Saturday. Society Executive Director Bob Brzozowski comments:

(Bob Brzozowski 11-19-20)

Bidding ends on Saturday November 21 at 5:00 PM, more information is available by email at info@OneontaHistory.org or by calling 432-0960.

People have been captivated by the story of the little owl that was transported to New York City from West Oneonta last week, on the Tree that is being set up for the Christmas holidays in Rockefeller Center.  Susan O'Hanley of the Delaware Otsego Audubon Society told WCDO News that they believe that the owl was on the tree through the whole process & made the trip to the city:

(Susan O'Hanley 11-19-20)

O'Hanley said that many have commented to the Society that the Owl should be brought back to West Oneonta, the Society members feel that the additional travel would be too stressful & that he will assimilate to the Owl population in the Hudson Valley.

A.M. NEWS THURSDAY 11-19-20

Otsego County Department of Health reported 18 new COVID cases Wednesday, the number of cases in the county since March is up to 1128, with 58 active cases,  1 hospitalized,  8 deaths,  760 cases are now linked to SUNY Oneonta & 67 at Hartwick College.

Oneonta City School District was made aware of a positive COVID-19 staff member at the Oneonta Middle School, several staff members are close contacts to 2 additional positive COVID cases resulting in quarantines through the Thanksgiving break.  All Oneonta schools will go fully remote beginning today through at least Monday, November 30th.

The Norwich High School and Middle School will have remote instruction today, after the District discovered a positive COVID-19 student case at the high school, and a middle school teacher's family member had tested positive.  The buildings will be closed today for contact tracing and deep cleaning, and they are working with Health officials in order to re-open for in-person instruction on Friday.  The Gibson and Browne Elementary schools will remain open, and will follow the normal schedule.

P.M. NEWS TUESDAY 11-10-20

Delaware Academy officials announced that their elementary school will go to remote learning until after the Thanksgiving holiday, due to a recent COVID 19 positive test. The infected person was last on the campus on November 5th, the Middle School & High School will continue as previously scheduled.

Otsego County Department of Health reported 8 new cases reported Monday, bringing them up to 1068 total confirmed cases, with 42 active cases, no hospitalizations & 8 deaths. 755 cases are linked to SUNY Oneonta & 63 confirmed cases are in Hartwick College students.

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

(Doug Decker 10-26-20)

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

The Norwich Middle School and District Offices will be closed Today after a positive COVID-19 case was reported. The district's website reported that they are closing the school to allow for contract tracing and deep cleaning.

Otsego County Department of Health announed that they had 19 cases of COVID 19 reported over the weekend, 9 of the cases are college students. The County now has 975 total confirmed cases, with 36 active cases, 1 hospitalization, 7 deaths, 751 cases linked to SUNY Oneonta & 30 confirmed cases in Hartwick College students

Country Music singer songwriter Jerry Jeff Walker, born Ronald Crosby on March 16, 1942 in Oneonta, died on Friday in Austin, Texas, from throat cancer-related complications. Walker is best known for writing the 1968 song "Mr. Bojangles", which was a big hit for the Nitty Gritty Dirt Band .

Delaware County Sheriff's Deputies investigated a head-on collision in the Town of Franklin on Wednesday afternoon.  Deputies reported that at about 5:30 PM, they responded with EMT's to the accident on County Highway 21 near Leland Hull Road.  Deputies determined that a vehicle driven by 50 year-old Jeffrey Lewis of Walton crossed over the center line and collided with a vehicle driven by 62 year-old Wayne Knorr of Laurens, causing the Knorr vehicle to overturn several times.  Knorr was taken to Fox Hospital in Oneonta for a head injury; Lewis was taken to Delaware Valley Hospital also for the treatment of a head injury.  Lewis’ driving privileges were revoked as a result of previous alcohol related offense, he was charged with aggravated unlicensed operation of a motor vehicle, operation of a motor vehicle without an ignition interlock device, failure to keep right and unlicensed operation of a motor vehicle, he was released to appear in Town of Franklin court at a later date.  Alcohol was not a contributing factor in this accident.

The Oneonta City School District have switched middle and high school students to remote learning yesterday & again today after being notified of a teacher testing positive.  NO student or any faculty/staff member is deemed a “close contact” to the affected teacher, according to a district letter; all elementary buildings will open as normal. Middle & High School students are scheduled to return on the previous hybrid schedule Monday.

Otsego County Department of Health reported 10 new cases of COVID 19 Thursday; they are investigating a cluster of cases that originated at a wedding that has now spread into the community.  Current COVID numbers, they report 952 total confirmed cases, 27 active cases with  2 hospitalizations, they've had 7 deaths,  747 probable and confirmed cases linked to SUNY Oneonta &  Hartwick College reported 2 more cases of COVID-19 have been detected, they have 3 active cases on campus; the total number of cases is 24.

An Oxford Academy Middle School student tested positive for COVID-19 earlier this week.  Oxford officials said that based on the hybrid schedule, the student was only in school on October 13, 2020 for part of the school day.  The district has coordinated with the Chenango County Public Health to identify through contact tracing protocols any student or staff member who may be at high risk of exposure.  The Chenango County Public Health has been reaching out to those staff members and parents of students identified to inform them if they need to be placed under mandatory quarantine for precautionary purposes. Due to privacy requirements, The Oxford District cannot give specific information about any individual who has a confirmed or suspected case of COVID-19.

Officials gathered in New Berlin to break ground at the site of the new fire house and Chobani Community Center, located on South Main Street in the village.  The fire station will have 6 garage bays, offices and rooms for training and storage and a space for community meetings.  The village received a $150,000 grant from the state, plus donations from Chobani for $650,000 & Preferred Mutual Insurance for $150,000.

A.M. NEWS THURSDAY 10-22-20

Otsego County Department of Health reports 5 new cases of COVID 19 Wednesday, and 10 cases reported over the past 5 days, 5 of those cases have been traced back to a recent wedding. Since October 1st The Health Department reports 12 cases related to 2 separate weddings. The County reports 942 total confirmed cases,  19 are active cases with 2 hospitalizations, 7 deaths,  746 probable and confirmed cases linked to SUNY Oneonta & 21 confirmed cases in Hartwick College students

There will be a free milk giveaway on Thursday, starting at 11:00 am, at the Unadilla Elementary School, Unatego Middle/High School and the former Otego Elementary school parking lots, Unatego School District teacher Sandra Bonczkowski told WCDO News how it came about:

(Sandra Bonczkowki 5-6-20)

The milk giveaway is open to anyone, while supplies last Thursday morning.

Congressman Anthony Brindisi announced more than $7 million
in federal funds for housing assistance across Upstate and Central New York.
The grant dollars are administered by HUD & will be dispersed to more than
a dozen organizations across New York.
Brindisi will hold his January town hall today at 5:30 PM, at the Maine
Endwell Middle School; it is free and open to the public.

Members of the State Police held a private remembrance for
the 10 year anniversary of Trooper Jill Mattice’s death at the State Police
Barracks in Oneonta Monday.  A
remembrance was held then laid a wreath in front of the station barracks.  Members of trooper Mattice’s family &
police agencies, including the State Park Police, Otsego County Sheriff’s
Department, Oneonta City Police Department, and The Town of New Berlin Police
attended.  Trooper Mattice was killed in
a crash with a troop car on State Route 23 near Morris in 2010.

Tomorrow is Election Day in New York State, locally, 5
people are running for 3 spots in the State Supreme Court 6th
District, they are Democrats Pete Charnetysky & Claudette Newman &
Republicans Chris Baker, Oliver Blaise, Mark Masler.  In Delaware County for the Sidney Town
Clerk's position, Incumbent Lisa French faces Republican Sheila Paul,   In Delhi & Hamden Town Council races;
each race has 3 candidates for 2 seats.
There are races in 3 districts of the Otsego County Board of
Representatives in districts 2, 3 & 14, there is an election for Laurens
Town Supervisor between Democrat Dean Buccheri & Republican David Neske,
and there are town council seat races in Butternuts, Hartwick, Laurens, New Lisbon,
Oneonta, and Worcester.  In the City of
Oneonta, there are races for common council seats in Wards 2, 4, 5, 6 &
8.  In Chenango County, there is an
election for Norwich City Mayor between incumbent Christine Carnrike, Jill
Osterhoudt-Kraft, Shawn Sastri & former Mayor Joe Maiurano; there are races
for Norwich City Council seats in wards 3 & 5, for Town of Norwich
Supervisor, the voters will decide between Debra Cubbedge & Stanley
Foulds.  In the Town of Coventry, a race
exits for Supervisor between Jan Andrews vs. Jennifer Boudreau.  In the town of Guilford Supervisor's race,
incumbent George Senek faces a challenge from Write-In candidate Dan
Harrington.   In the Guilford Town Council,
2 seats are up between Terence Ives, Richard Dunnigan, Gilda Ward, plus Write
Ins:  Rebecca Young and Duane Reif for
Town Council,   for Town of Pharsalia
Supervisor, the race is between Jeremiah Micklas vs. David Soule & there
are 3 candidates for 2 seats on the Town of Plymouth board.

Governor Cuomo announced that New York's law raising the
minimum sales age from 18 to 21 for tobacco and electronic cigarette products
beginning November 13th.   The law seeks
to prevent cigarettes and vaping products from getting into the hands of our
youth, & creating an addiction to a deadly habit.   According to the State Department of Health,
almost 40% of 12th grade students and 27% of all high school age students are
now using e-cigarettes, and this increase is largely driven by flavored
e-liquids.   The State Police will
partner with the Department of Health to conduct undercover investigations
across the state, retailers found selling tobacco and vaping products to
underage individuals will face criminal penalties in addition to civil
penalties.

The Unatego Board of Education is expected to make a
decision as to which proposal to accept for the Former Otego Elementary School
Building at their regular Board meeting tonight at 7:00 PM at the Middle
School/High School cafeteria in Wells Bridge.
Unatego Superintendent Dr. Dave Richards said that the 3 proposals are
down to 2 for tonight:

(Dr. Dave Richards 11-4-19)

The remaining proposals are from Dirig Design of Wells
Bridge & Oneonta Christian Academy.

Governor Cuomo signed legislation authorizing school
districts to install stop-arm cameras on school buses in order to catch drivers
who unlawfully pass a stopped school bus. In New York State, approximately 1.5
million students ride school buses to and from school every year, However,
Operation Safe Stop in April 2018 exposed that hundreds of people ignore this
law and over 850 people were ticketed in 1 day.

The 11th Annual Susquehanna Balloon Festival at NEAHWA PARK
in Oneonta, will be held on Friday, August 30th from 5:00 to 9:00 PM
& Saturday, August 31st from 3:00 to 9:00 PM, with live music,
vendors, entertainment, bounce house, food & Hot Air Balloons.  More information is available by calling Destination
Oneonta at 432-2941.

The Chenango County Department
of Public Works closed County Road 17 between State Route 41 and Loomis Road in
the Town of Afton today for the replacement of a large culvert. The work is
expected to take 3 to 5 days, Drivers should seek alternate routes. Local
residents will be allowed to travel to and from their homes. More information
is available at 337-1710.

22nd District Congressman Anthony Brindisi will hold a rural
broadband town hall in Chenango County This afternoon.  The event will begin at 4:45 pm at
Sherburne-Earlville Middle School. This event is free and open to all members
of the community.