WCDO Radio News

Congressman Marc Molinaro announced his constituent service team will hold mobile office hours from 12:00 noon to 2:00pm on Wednesday, December 20 at the Town of Oneonta Town Hall. This comes after a home exploded in Oneonta, killing 1 person, injuring others, and damaging neighboring homes. Constituents will be able to connect with representatives from Congressman Molinaro's office to get assistance with issues they are facing.

The ABC Holiday Benefit will be held Saturday, @ 2:00 pm at the Bainbridge Guilford High School. Non-perishable food donations will be collected for Bainbridge & Sidney food pantries.

The Otsego County Sheriff's Office will participate in the next Shop with a Cop event tomorrow. 36 children were selected by area school district to participate, they will shop with Deputies, officers from the Cooperstown & Oneonta Police Departments & SUNY Oneonta Police tomorrow.

The Unatego School District will induct 3 alumni into their "Hall of Distinction" today, Spokesperson Judy Pitel explains:

(Judy Pitel 12-1-23)

All are welcome to attend the festivities, which begin at 5:30 PM.

The 2023 U.S. Marine Corps Reserve Toys for Tots Train will be coming through the region Saturday. The holiday train will stop in Oneonta at the Gas Avenue Rail Crossing, from 12:05 pm. to 12:40 pm. The train will be in Bainbridge at the Walnut Street Rail Crossing from 1:30 pm. to 2:00 pm. The train's schedule ends at the East Binghamton Yard Entrance, 3:20 pm. to 4:00 pm.

Governor Hochul announced the annual statewide holiday donation drive to benefit families in need across the state, will begin Today. Donations of new unwrapped toys, coats and school supplies are requested, Drop off locations will be set up locally through December 15th at the Binghamton State Office Building, 44 Hawley Street and the Homer Folks Facility, 28 Hill Street, Oneonta.

A Lawsuit was filed in Broome County Supreme Court against the Vestal School District where a former Vestal High School student alleges that economics teacher Robert Carr asked her to meet him, he allegedly kissed the victim numerous times, groped her inappropriately and continued to force sexual activity upon her until she moved to the state of Texas and changed her phone number. The lawsuit claims that School Officials did not take any action against Carr after learning of the accusations.

A.M. NEWS Wednesday 11-29-23

On Tuesday, Broome County Sheriff’s Deputies assigned to the US Marshal’s Regional Fugitive Task Force arrested 22 year old Nathan Williams Jr. of Endicott, at 68 Thorp Street in the City of Binghamton. Williams was wanted by the Endicott Police Department for Murder in connection with the shooting death of 25-year-old Molique Dawson in Endicott in July. The Metro SWAT Team of the Binghamton Police Department executed the search warrant and Williams was successfully taken into custody after a 5 hour standoff, Williams was transported to the Broome County Sheriff’s Correctional Facility, arraigned at Central Arraignment and is currently being held without bail.

Congressman Marc Molinaro announced over $3.5 million in federal funding will go to 9 airports for infrastructure improvements. Locally, the Greater Binghamton Edwin Link Field Airport will get about $1,000,000, the Tri-Cities Airport in Endicott: $144,000, the Eaton Airport in Norwich: $144,000, the Sidney Municipal Airport: $144,000 & the Albert Nader Regional Airport in Oneonta: $113,000

The Oneonta City School District will hold a capital project public meeting tonight on their $30.4 million dollar project. The meeting will be held at 6:00 PM at the Oneonta High School Auditorium, voting on the project will be in December.

P.M. NEWS TUESDAY 11-14-23

Delaware County District Attorney's Office announced that 45 year old Luke Lupo of Walton appeared in Delaware County Court Monday and pleaded guilty to 3rd degree Burglary. Lupo admitted that in April of 2022, he entered a building owned by Herman’s Trailer Sales and Service in Walton, and stole property, he will be sentenced to 5 years of felony probation supervision and ordered to pay restitution to the victim. Sentencing was scheduled for January 16, 2024.

The State Department of Transportation will hold their Public Information Meeting regarding the reconstruction of the State Route 7 & Maple Street intersection in Oneonta into a roundabout. The meeting will be held at the Oneonta High School starting at 5:30 PM, it will also be available for viewing online at dot.ny.gov/oneontaroundabout.

U.S. Rep. Marc Molinaro announced his constituent service team will hold mobile office hours Friday from 12:00 noon to 2:00pm at the Town of Oneonta Town Hall in West Oneonta. Constituents will be able to connect with representatives from Rep. Molinaro's office to share comments and resolve issues they are having with federal agencies like the VA, IRS, and Social Security Administration.

A.M. NEWS Thursday 11-2-23

State Police arrested 3 people after a fight at the Lantern Hill trailer park in Oneonta Saturday. An investigation by Troopers at the scene determined that 25 year old La-Tee Baker of Oneonta, 21 year old Bryanna Patterson of Oneonta, and 23 year old Bethany Brown of Delhi, were involved in a fight, both women sustained injuries, Brown was transported to A.O. Fox Hospital. Baker and Patterson were located by Troopers walking along State Highway 23 and were arrested. They were issued appearance tickets to the Oneonta Town Court on November 21, 2023. After release from the hospital, Brown was charged with Assault, she was issued appearance tickets to the Oneonta Town Court on December 5.

The Sidney Democratic Committee is holding a Meet and Greet for Deirdre Hay, who is running on the Democratic line for NY State Supreme Court Justice for the 6th Judicial District, in the upcoming November 7th general election. Hay will meet with area residents at 6:30 in the Sidney Library Smart Community Room tonight. Hay is running for the seat against Republican candidate Cheryl Insinga. Also, Democratic Sidney Town Board Candidate Kevin Greene will also be participating.

The Bainbridge Guilford Central School District will hold their annual breakfast for veterans next week, BG Superintendent Tim Ryan told WCDO News about the event:

(Tim Ryan 11-2-23)

Veterans interested in attending the breakfast should RSVP to 607-967-6321.

More Red Cross Blood Drives are scheduled for today, 1 will be held at the Pines Brook Church in Walton from 1:30 TO 6:00 PM, another will be held at the Schenevus Central School from 2:00 to 6:00 PM, appointments can be made with the Red Cross Blood donor App, at redcrossblood.org or by calling 1-800-redcross.

The process for the new nickname at the Sidney Central School District is in the next phase. The 2nd survey, which allows people to submit their favorite nickname, is now open. The survey will require a person's name, email address, your connection to the Sidney CSD, and the option to select a nickname, Sidney Superintendent Eben Bullock comments:

(Eben Bullock 10-20-23)

The survey link is available on Facebook, and at sidneycsd.org/nicknamechange. The survey will remain open through Tuesday, October 31. Only one submission per email is allowed.

This Saturday night, The Grand Oneonta Opry is coming to Foothills Performing Arts Center at 6:00 PM, with several local acts backed by the Driftwoods. The show is a fundraiser for Helios Care, Director of Development & Marketing Kathryn Dailey comments:

(Kathryn Dailey 10-20-23)

To Purchase tickets, go to helioscare.org/events.

The Tri Town Theater will be performing “The Music Man” at the Sidney High School Stage starting tonight, continuing on Saturday Night & Sunday Afternoon, performers George Wells commented about the show:

(George Wells 10-20-23)

Tickets for all of the performances can be purchased at tritown.booktix.com.

State Comptroller's office conducted an audit of the South Kortright School District, the audit found that District officials generally ensured claims were adequately supported and properly audited prior to payment, certain purchases lacked necessary supporting documentation. There were issues with Request for Proposals for 7 professional service providers and the insurance provider & 18 claims were approved without documentation. The Auditors recommend that the claims auditor and deputy claims auditor Conduct a thorough and deliberate audit of each claim before authorizing payment.

Another American Red Cross Blood Drive is scheduled in Oneonta today from 12 pm. - 5 pm., at the South side Mall YMCA, Appointments ca be made by downloading the Red Cross Blood Donor App, visiting Crossbreed or calling 1-800-RED CROSS.

Visions Federal Credit Union will host a Business After Hours Event today at their Oneonta Branch in the Well Now Plaza on State Route 23. The program runs from 5:00 to 7:00 PM today.

P.M. NEWS FRIDAY 10-13-23

Broome County Sheriff’s Deputies arrested 35 year old Devyn Wilcox of Harpursville on 27 counts of Endangering the Welfare of a Child & 1 count of disorderly conduct on Thursday. Deputies responded Thursday afternoon to the Harpursville School District Bus, Wilcox is accused of entering the stopped bus and began yelling, screaming, swearing and threatening juveniles, according to witnesses & video. There were 30 students from elementary school to high school ages on the bus. Wilcox was taken into custody without incident at his residence, he was processed at the Broome County Sheriff’s Correctional Facility and released on appearance tickets for the Town of Colesville Court at a later date. The investigation is continuing.

The next Nate Lull Scholarship Fundraiser will be held at Awestruck Ciders in Sidney this Sunday from 11am to 5pm, Lull told WCDO News that Sunday's fundraiser is one of the key fundraisers for the Scholarship:

(Nate Lull 10-10-23)

The scholarships will be announced next year, for seniors at schools in the WCDO listening area, details are available at natelull.com.

The 2nd Annual Shocktoberfest will be held at the Foothills performing Arts Center in Oneonta Saturday from 3:00 PM to Midnight, spokesman Geoff Doyle comments:

(Geoff Doyle 10-13-23)

More Information is available at foothillspac.org, that also includes a link to eventbrite.com for tickets to Shocktoberfest.

The Out Of The Woodwork Players present "YOU KNOW THE OLD SLAYING", Today & Tomorrow at 7:00 PM & Sunday at 2:00 PM at the Bainbridge Town Hall Theater, 15 North Main Street in Bainbridge. A Photography exhibit will be in the Gallery, Doors open at 6:00 PM tonight & Saturday.

A.M. NEWS FRIDAY 10-13-23

The Amphenol Corporation will have a recruitment event at SUNY Oneonta Morris Conference Center Saturday from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM for on-site applications & on the spot interviews. A list of Job openings can be found online at amphenol/sidneyny.jobs.

The Sidney Central School Observatory will be open tonight 9:00-10:00 PM after the Sidney football game. In the event of cloudy skies or inclement weather, the session will be canceled. The Observatory is located behind the high school building, go past the main entrance of the gymnasium and turn right past the pool & follow the road to the lower back parking lot.

Delaware County Sheriff's Deputies received a complaint regarding a group of students from Walton High School who received a message via a social media app, which contained threats to bomb the Walton School and cause harm to other students. Deputies responded to Walton and interviewed multiple students and it was determined that the threat was made after school hours and that an 18 year-old student of Walton High School did make threats to “bomb” the Walton High School. The juvenile was charged with Making a Terroristic Threat and was held at the Delaware County Correctional Facility for arraignment.

The Jericho Arts Council will have another concert at the Bainbridge Town Hall Theater Saturday evening, coupled with another show in the Gallery, according to spokesman Phil Wade:

(PHIL WADE 10-6-23)

Wade said that Reservation for tickets can be obtained by calling 607-288-3882, or just prior to the show at 7:00 PM Saturday night.

A.M. NEWS FRIDAY 10-6-23

The Broome County District Attorney's Office announced that a plea deal was given to 35-year-old Bradley Law of Harpursville. Law admitted to operating the vehicle in a hit & run Crash that killed 13 year old Brennan Loveless as he was riding hid Bicycle along Route 7 near his home in Sanitaria Springs back on New Year’s Day. Law was sentenced to 1 1/3rd to 4 years in prison for leaving the scene of a fatal accident and a weapons charge.

State Police reported that 16 year old Emily Clapper was located in good health in the city of Oneonta by Oneonta Police. Clapper was reported missing on October 2nd.

Oneonta City Officials announced that on Thursday, from 7:00 am to 4:00 pm there will be no parking on both sides on Market Street between Chestnut Street Extension and Water Street Extension. NYSEG crews will be installing overhead power lines, more information is available at 432-2100.

The Sidney Central School District Student Stakeholder committee met this afternoon & the Community Stakeholders meeting will be held this evening at 6:00 PM, regarding changing the school nickname & mascot, Superintendent Eben Bullock told WCDO news of the timeline following today's meeting and the survey that will be going out:

(Eben Bullock 9-27-23)

Bullock said that he is hoping that the nickname & mascot name change will be concluded by the end of the year.

A.M. NEWS WEDNESDAY 9-26-23

State Police responded to a crash involving a pedestrian and a vehicle at the intersection of Country Club Road and Hooper Road in the town of Union. A 70-year-old-female was crossing the road when she was struck by an SUV driven by a 76 year old Female, the pedestrian was transported to Wilson Hospital and is in critical condition. The Troop “C” Collision Reconstruction Unit responded to the scene to assist with the investigation.

The Delaware County District Attorney's Office announced that 41 year old Mary Cutting of Sidney, pleaded guilty in Delaware County Court for Criminal Sale of a Controlled Substance. Cutting appeared on Monday September 25th for a conference, she admitted that on January 19, she sold fentanyl to an unidentified individual in the Village of Sidney. Cutting will be sentenced to 3 years of incarceration, and 2 years of post-release supervision.

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.

P.M. NEWS THURSDAY 9-14-23

The Sidney Central School District is continuing with the process of changing the school nickname & mascot, 2 meeting have been set up on September 27th, Sidney Superintendent Eben Bullock explains:

(Eben Bullock 9-14-23)

The district is now seeking members for the community stakeholder group, which will meet 3 times, on September 27, October 18, and November 1. Community members who are interested should RSVP to Nancy Edwards at nedwards@sidneycsd.org, or call 607-561-7700, extension 3.

Bassett Healthcare Network, Hartwick College, and SUNY Oneonta gathered on September 13 to inaugurate a groundbreaking workforce development partnership aimed at retaining new graduates in the region and addressing critical workforce shortages across Bassett’s network. Bassett President & CEO Dr. Tommy Ibrahim comments at a Fox Hospital Press Conference Wednesday:

(Dr. Tommy Ibrahim 9-14-23)

Dr. Ibrahim said that Bassett CARES is open to graduates from all disciplines, participants may earn up to $25,000 in loan repayment stipends. SUNY Oneonta and Hartwick College students may also get free or subsidized on-campus housing in the summer for matriculated students who are working for Bassett Healthcare Network during the summer months. SUNY Oneonta also plans to provide bridge housing for recent graduates for the summer directly following their graduation to ease the transition to professional life at Bassett.

The Otsego County Health Department, Sheriff's Office & The Governor's Traffic Safety Committee will hold a Child car Seat Safety check event today at the AAA office on State Highway 28 in Oneonta. The clinic will run from 2:00 to 5:00 PM, More information is available at 607-547-4230.

P.M. NEWS MONDAY 9-11-23

The Utica City School District today released the name of the security officer who was shot after a football game at Proctor High School. District Officials said that Jeff Lynch was shot Saturday, he was taken to an area hospital, he is recovering & is expected to be released shortly according to the Utica Police Department. An unidentified 16 year old male was charged with 2nd degree attempted Murder, Criminal possession of a weapon, among other similar charges.

After a summer of decreased donor turnout, the American Red Cross is experiencing a national blood shortage, which has lead to an increase in Blood Drives locally into the fall, American Red Cross Spokesperson Meg Rossman comments:

(Meg Rossman 9-11-23)

Blood Drives are being held tomorrow at SUNY Delhi's Farrell Hall from 10:30 AM to 4:30 PM, in Cooperstown at the Community Bible Church from 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM, and in Oneonta at the Foothills Performing Arts Center from 1:00 to 6:00 PM, Appointments can be scheduled with the Red Cross Blood Donor App, at Redcrossblood.org or by calling 1-800-Red Cross.

State Police at Richfield Springs were dispatched to assist the Richfield Fire Department with a fire in a 2nd-floor bathroom at Richfield Springs Central School. An investigation revealed that a 15-year-old male intentionally lit a soap dispenser on fire, which caused property damage only. No injuries were reported. The juvenile was charged with 2nd degree Arson.

P.M. NEWS FRIDAY 8-11-23

Chenango County Sheriff's Office arrested 52 year old Robert Colson of Norwich following a lengthy investigation into the burglary of two Chenango County Gas Stations in late October of 2022. Colson is accused of forcing his way into the establishements and stealing thousands of dollars' worth of tobacco products. The Chenango County District Attorney's Office presented the case to a Grand Jury where Colson was indicted for 3rd degree Burglary, 3rd & 4th Degree Grand Larceny, & 3 counts of criminal mischief. Colson was arrested Monday while he was incarcerated at the Chenango County Correctional Facility on separate charges, he was arraigned in Chenango County Court where he was remanded back to the Chenango County Correctional Facility and scheduled for a later day in court.

The State Comptroller's office concluded an audit of the Morris Central School District recently. The Audit found that The board and district officials did not effectively manage the district's fund balance, overestimating appropriations by an average of $617,000, or 6%, also surplus fund balance exceeded the 4% statutory limit in all 3 of the audited fiscal years by approximately $1.1 million to $2 million and 4 of the district's 10 reserves were not reasonably funded, or were used to pay related expenditures.

A.M. NEWS Friday 8-11-23

Oneonta Emergency crews responded to the report of truck in the Susquehanna River at Exit 14 at lower Main Street, Thursday Afternoon. The truck came off the I-88 Exit Ramp, went through Main Street & went into the river, crews removed the driver at about 5:15 PM, WCDO will have more details as they become available.

Delaware County Sheriff Deputy’s responded to a report of a suspicious person in a vehicle located at the intersection of Scotch Mountain Road & Arbuckle Hollow Road, in the Town of Delhi. Deputies observed 78-year-old Dante Musci of Delancey lying in the back seat of the vehicle, he had traveled along Arbuckle Hollow Road and was involved in a property damage auto accident and had left the scene. Musci was charged with leaving the scene of a property damage auto accident, Operating a Motor Vehicle while impaired by drugs and driving while intoxicated, he was released and will appear in the Town of Delhi Court at a later date.

Congressman Marc Molinaro announced over $27 million in federal funding for community development projects in New York's 19th Congressional District. The City of Norwich will receive over 1.2 Million Dollars for Sanitary Sewer System Repairs& the Town of Oneonta will receive $4.2 Million Dollars for installation of 7,000 linear feet of sewer and water lines and associated laterals, meters, and hookups.

A.M. NEWS Monday 8-7-23

A Delaware County Grand Jury indicted Benjamin Moyse of Delhi on 11 charges. Count 1 alleged that, while a 10th grade teacher at Delaware Academy, Moyse intentionally aided a person under 16 years of age to commit the felony crimes of possessing and disseminating child pornography. The Grand Jury also charged Moyse with 5 separate counts of Endangering the Welfare of a Child, for knowingly engaged in a course of conduct likely to be injurious to the physical, mental, or moral welfare of 5 separate children at Delaware Academy. Moyse was also charged with 2 counts of Official Misconduct, for failing to follow the school’s policy and procedures when students and parents repeatedly reported to him that students were being sexually abused & for failing to report child abuse or maltreatment by his students and his students’ parents.

Catholic Charities of Sidney is still seeking children from the Sidney central School District, to sign up for free backpacks with school supplies, for the coming school year, spokesperson Penny McKnight explains:

(Penny McKnight 8-2-23)

McKnight said that this year, the free back pack program is open to Sidney School District Students from Kindergarten through 6th grade.

The Chenango County Sheriff’s Office Detectives Division arrested 40 year old Todd Jorgensen for Criminal Possession of Stolen Property, 2 counts of Criminal Sale of firearms and false written statement. The arrest came following an investigation of a Burglary of firearms in the Town of Columbus in December 2022. Jorgensen is accused of possessing the stolen firearms, he allegedly sold the stolen firearms to 2 different people, and provided a false statement to impede the recovery of the firearms. Jorgensen was processed and released on an appearance ticket to appear in the Town of Columbus Court at a later date.

A.M. NEWS Wednesday 8-2-23

State Police thanked the public & tips are no longer needed in the Oneonta Walmart theft of about $1100 worth of merchandise by a man & woman. Police said that they have identified the pair who robbed the store on July 27.

Sidney Police Department arrested 33 year old Jesse Terry of Unadilla Wednesday, for criminal possession of stolen property, unlawful fleeing a police officer, aggravated unlicensed operation of a motor vehicle, driving while under the influence of drugs & resisting arrest amon other charges. Sidney Police received an alert about a stolen vehicle out of Oneonta, the vehicle was observed at a car wash, with State Police assisting the traffic stop, Terry did not comply and rammed the Sidney Police car, police pursued along West Main Street, the pursuit ended at the Circle Drive Apartments, where Terry hit 1 of the apartment buildings with the vehicle, he fled into an apartment building and was taken into custody, he was treated at the hospital & was later arraigned in the Village of Sidney Court & was remanded to the Delaware County Jail. More charges are pending.

Delaware County District Attorney's Office announced that 41 year old Darren Moscato of Delhi, was arraigned on a sealed indictment in Delaware County Court Monday. The indictment was unsealed, Count One accused Moscato of attempting to endanger the welfare of a child, the other counts accuse him of Attempted Disseminating of Indecent Material to Minors, Engaging in a sexually explicit conversation with a minor with the intention of enticing the child to engage in sexual activity, and for sending explicit pictures to the minor. Moscato was released to the supervision of the Delaware County Probation Department, pending a conference on July 24th.

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

A.M. NEWS THURSDAY 7-13-23

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

Today is Day 3 of the Delaware County IRT at the Walton High School, Delaware County Director of Planning & Watershed Affairs Shelly Johnson Bennett said that Tuesday was successful, Wednesday was slower & in the coming days there will be plenty of opportunities for people to get free medical, vision, veterinary & dental services:

(Shelly Johnson Bennett 7-12--23)

Johnson Bennett said that today's hours are 8:00 to 4:00, Saturday will be expanded to 8:00 AM to 7:00 PM, Spaying & Neutering of pets requires pre-registration at 607-832-5444, all other services are free and available in a timely fashion.

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.

Republican Paul Battisti has won the primary in Broome County for the party nomination for District Attorney, over current DA Mike Korchak. Korchak announced that he would not run as a 3rd party candidate like he did tin the previous election 4 years ago & defeated republican Steve Cornwell. Former Binghamton Mayor Matt Ryan announced that he will run on the Democratic Party Line for District Attorney in November.

The Sidney Central School District has begun the process to change the School Nickname from "The Sidney Warriors", District Superintendent Eben Bullock explains the process:

(Eben Bullock 6-28-23)

More information is available at sidneycsd.org/nicknamechange.

The Greater Oneonta Historical Society will host the 2nd in a series called “Let's Talk Oneonta Baseball” on Tuesday, July 11th from 6:00-8:00 pm at the 183 Main Street. Special guest Helen Rees is the daughter of the late Jim Konstanty on Oneonta, who was the National League's Most Valuable Player in 1950 for the Philadelphia Phillies. The Society's Baseball related display continues through September 1. This informal event is free and open to the public, more information, is available at (607) 432-0960.

A.M. NEWS WEDNESDAY 6-28-23

Delaware County Board of Elections confirmed the Primary Election Results from Tuesday. In the Republican Primary for Distrit Attorney, Shawn Smith recevied 1,684 votes, while Joe Ermeti received 1,088, there were 2 write in votes.

P.M. NEWS TUESDAY 6-27-23

Today is Primary Day, the race with a lot of local interest is the Delaware County Republican Party Primary for the nomination for District Attorney. Long time area Attorney Joe Ermeti faces current Acting County District Attorney Shawn Smith for the County Republican endorsement. Smith already has the Conservative party nomination & will be on the ballot for Delaware County District Attorney in the November General Election.

The Broome County District Attorney's office announced that 51 year old David Rexer of Endicott was found guilty of conspiracy by a jury in Broome county Court recently. Rexer was found guilty of conspiring with another person to commit arson on an Endicott building last year, however the person that Rexer attempted to conspire with was an undercover police officer. Rexer has a prior conviction for 3rd degree Rape and will be sentenced to 1/13 to 4 years in jail on September 23rd.

Delaware County will host an Innovative Readiness Training mission, or "IRT" which will be bringing medical professionals to the Walton High School July 11th through the 19th, providing free Medical, Dental & Veterinary services. Director of Delaware County Planning & Watershed Affairs, Shelly Johnson-Bennett told WCDO News that they will need some volunteers for a variety of functions at the event:

(Shelly Johnson-Bennett 6-27-23)

the link to volunteer is available at delawareopportunities.org, WCDO will air the full interview with Shelly Johnson-Bennett on Wednesday night July 5th following the 6:00 PM news.

Family Planning of South Central New York is participating in National HIV Testing Day today by providing free Rapid HIV testing at their Binghamton, Oneonta, and Norwich medical centers. A rapid HIV test uses a finger prick to quickly detect the presence of HIV antibodies or antigens, which can deliver results within a shorter time frame, typically within 20 minutes or less. More information is available at fpscny.org.

P.M. NEWS FRIDAY 6-23-23

Anielle "AK" McEwan Lomnicki has been cleared to play basketball at the Gus Macker Tournament in Norwich next Month, AK suffered numerous injuries when she was struck by a drunk driver while walking home from school in Sidney February 15th, she told WCDO News that she is excited & ahead of schedule in her ongoing recovery:

(AK McEwan Lomnicki 6-23-23)

AK's father, Rick Lomnicki said that they have been watching other people playing various sports, but watching his daughter compete after all she has been through will be exciting:

(Rich Lomnicki 6-23-23)

"AK" will be competing at the Norwich Macker July 8th & 9th on 1 of 9 WCDO sponsored teams, she also plans to play in the Ithaca Gus Macker tournament, and 2 other tournaments later this summer.

High School Graduations are scheduled all over the Southern Tier this weekend. Hancock Commencement exercises began this morning, other districts with ceremonies today include Afton, Andes, Charlotte Valley, Deposit, Downsville, Edmeston, GMU, Laurens, Milford, Morris, South Kortright, Schenevus, Unatego & Windsor. Saturday Graduation ceremonies will include Sidney, Bainbridge Guilford, Norwich, Oneonta, Delaware Academy, Greene, Harpursville, Oxford Academy, Unadilla Valley, Sherburne Earlville & Walton. 2 area district will hold their ceremonies on Sunday, they are Cooperstown & Worcester.

The State Comptroller's Office audited the Afton Central School District, , they found that the Afton Board and District officials did not effectively manage the District’s fund balance, so they levied more taxes than needed to fund operations and were not transparent with taxpayers. The Board annually overestimated appropriations by an average of $1.1 million or 7%. The District incurred $63,561 in unnecessary interest and other associated costs for the issuance of bonds to purchase school buses. The Comptrollers office recommended adopting realistic budgets, Reduce surplus fund balance to comply with the statutory limit to benefit taxpayers. District officials agreed with our recommendations and indicated they will take corrective action, the full report can be found at osc.state.ny.us.

On Saturday at 2pm, the Greater Oneonta Historical Society will tour the Fairchild Mansion, which is now the Masonic Lodge at 322 Main Street. George Fairchild was a U.S. Congressman and the first chairman of the Board of IBM, he was also the founder of Fairchild Camera, Fairchild Aviation, and funded the founding of Fairchild Semiconductor. The tour is by donation and reservations are not required.

State Comptroller's office announced the results of an audit of the Oxford Academy and Central School District. District officials did not comply with competitive bidding requirements for 33 of 35 transportation contracts totaling $322,056, fuel credit card purchases resulting totaling $16,258 did not comply with district procedures, and that vehicle repair invoices and parts ordered by the vehicle maintenance and repair vendor were not reviewed to verify that the parts ordered were for district vehicles.

The Oneonta Common Council held a special meeting last week, they voted to demolish the municipal parking garage, new plans call for the building of a new garage and possibly re-imagining the area into a new transit hub, Consulting firm Wendell Companies reported to the council that the whole project could cost up to $30 Million Dollars.

The Otsego County Chamber of Commerce will be holding their Quarterly Networking Mixer today. The mixer runs from 5:00 to 6:30 Pm at Damaschke Field, prior to tonight's Oneonta Outlaws game.

The next American Red Cross Blood Drive will be held in Oneonta today. The Blood Drive will be from 1:00 to 6:00 PM at the Quality Inn, 5206 State Highway 23, To make an appointment, download the American Red Cross Blood Donor App, visit RedCrossBlood.org, call 1-800-RED CROSS.

Butternut Valley Alliance will hold its third annual “On the Trail of Art” Festival Saturday & Sunday in the General Jacob Morris State Park in Morris. The trail will feature student artists from Edmeston, Gilbertsville-Mount Upton and Morris Central schools, plus 40 local artists will exhibit their works. Admission to the event is free; reservations are required and may be made at ButternutValleyAlliance.org.

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.

Delaware County District Attorney's office announced that 31 year old Derek Wignall of Hancock was sentenced to a split sentence of six months incarceration in the County Jail and a subsequent five-year period of felony probation supervision for the crime of Criminal Contempt. On July 12, 2022, Wignall violated an Order of Protection, & threatened to kill the victim, he was arrested by Troopers. On April 3, Wignall pleaded guilty to the charge.

The Delaware-Otsego Audubon Society will host the Electric Vehicle Car Show on Saturday, from 11:00 AM to 2:00 PM at Damaschke Field in Oneonta. Delaware Otsego Audubon Society Spokesperson Susan O'Handley explains:

(Susan O'Handley 5-9-23)

EV Owners are invited to participate at no charge, registration information can be found at doas.us/ev-2023.

The Tri-Town Theatre will present the "LITTLE SHOP OF HORRORS" this weekend at the Sidney High School Auditorium,Cast members Evelyn Kinnear & Shawn Smith commented about the quirky show featuring an alien evil plant & Doo-Wop music:

(Evelyn Kinnear-Shawn Smith 6-2-23)

The show will be performed tonight & Saturday Night at 7:30 pm with a Sunday Matinee at 2:00 pm, Tickets are $20 for reserved seating and are available at tritown.booktix.com, or at the door beginning 1 hour prior to showtime!

Delaware County District Attorney's Office announced that 30 year old Scott Conrad of Walton pleaded guilty to 3rd Degree Burglary & Aggravated Harassment. Conrad admitted that he kicked down the door of his ex-girlfriend’s home and after an altercation & spat on her. A child was present during the Burglary, he will be sentenced to 6 months of incarceration in the County Jail and a 5-year term of felony probationary supervision.

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.

Otsego County Sheriff's Office arrested 50 year old Hasan Taylor of Oneonta, following an investigation of narcotics within the Correctional Facility. Taylor is accused of concealing narcotics with the intent to sell, after being admitted to the Correctional facility on separate charges, he was released, however investigators received a report from the State Police indicating that the substance seized from Taylor was Fentanyl, an arrest warrant was issued by the Town of Middlefield Court. Taylor was located by the Oneonta Police & was charged with Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance, Promoting Prison Contraband & Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance, he was being held in the Otsego County Correctional Facility for court action.

There has been a lot of confusion regarding New York State's rules on the gas stove to electric stove change over, and the expected timeline, Local Assemblyman Joe Angelino said that right now, the proposal has almost no effect on the region:

(Angelino 5-17-23)

Assemblyman Angelino said that there may be some changes addressing mandates that school busses change over to electric battery power in the near future, but the manufacturing of the busses and the access to charging points will not ready in time for the mandate's expected start date.

A.M. NEWS WEDNESDAY 5-17-23

Early results indicate that all area school districts had their budgets & propositions passed in the Tri County Region. The large majority of district statewide proposed budgets at or under the state established spending cap this year.

School district Budget Votes will be held on Tuesday across the state, Unatego District Superintendent Dr. Dave Richards told WCDO News about their budget proposal:

(Dave Richards 5-12-23)

Richards said that there are also 2 propositions regarding transportation for district students based on their distance from school, another regarding an Energy Performance Contract. Voting will be from 12:00 noon until 8:00 PM Tuesday at the Unatego District Office.

A.M. NEWS FRIDAY 5-12-23

Delaware County District Attorney's Office announced that 44 year old Dana Britton of Delhi, was re-sentenced to jail after violating his probation supervision. Britton admitted to using illegal drugs while on probation, The Probation Department recommended that he be sent to an inpatient rehabilitation facility, Britton refused to engage in treatment, his probation was revoked & he was sentenced him to 22 months in jail at the Delaware County Correctional Facility.

The Greater Oneonta Historical Society will hold a walking tour of the site of the Former Roundhouse on Saturday, at 4:00 pm, Society Executive Director Marcela Micucci explains:

(Marcela Micucci 5-12-23)

The tour will be down Roundhouse Road, parallel to the railroad tracks and nearby the former location of the D&H Roundhouse, one of the world's largest, the tour leaves at 4:00 pm from the D&H Roundhouse Historic Marker at the corner of Fonda Avenue and Roundhouse Road.

The 26th Annual Norwich Gus Macker 3-on-3 basketball tournament returns to Norwich, on July 8 & 9, at the Norwich High School Complex, Organizer Tom Revoir told WCDO News that registration will continue for several more weeks & they need volunteers & especially, they need referees:

(Tom Revoir 5-8-23)

Teams can Register at macker.com, and interested parties who can referee can contact Tom Revoir at 336-9622 extension 29.

Former long time area Assemblyman Gary Finch passed away Friday at the age of 79. Finch retired from the Assembly in 2020 after serving for 10 terms in the Assembly, part of his district was in Chenango County.

U.S. Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer announced that a proposed change to Medicare wage payments, could bring about $43 million for UHS hospitals locally. Schumer said that almost $4 million alone could go to UHS Chenango Memorial Hospital in Norwich.

A.M. NEWS Monday 5-8-23

All levels of the City of Oneonta municipal parking garage will be closed until further notice. Routine visual inspection has revealed some additional structural deterioration. City officials are taking precautionary measures until the entire garage can be reevaluated by the City’s structural engineering consultant. The Trailways bus terminal may remain open with no impact to regular operations. Parking restrictions will be lifted in the City’s Dietz Street Lot. There is additional public parking available in the Damaschke Field and Neahwa Park Large Pavilion parking lots & The City is working to establish a downtown shuttle bus to downtown.

The Broome County District Attorney Mike Korchak announced that Kyle Babola of Johnson City pleaded guilty for killing Scott Groover with a machete in 2021. Babola took a plea deal of 20 years to life before the trial could start, the maximum sentence could have been 25 years to life in prison.

3 blood drives are being conducted around the Otsego County today. 1 drive will be held from 12 pm. - 5 pm.,at the State University in Oneonta, in the Hunt College Union, another drive will be held from 8:30 am. - 1:30 pm., at the Neonatal High School, & another drive will be in Cooperstown from 12:30 pm. - 5:30 pm., St Mary's Roman Catholic Church, 31 Elm Street. To make an appointment, download the Red Cross Blood Donor App, visit RedCrossBlood.org or call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767).