WCDO Radio News

P.M. NEWS WEDNESDAY 6-10-26

The Chenango County Health Department announced that the BOIL WATER ORDER has been Lifted for the Village of Bainbridge Water System & residents may resume normal use of the water. Emergency water quality monitoring has indicated that the water system again meets State Drinking Water Standards. Some residents may experience discolored water or a change in taste or odor of the water; if this occurs flush all water lines for 15-20 minutes or until the water runs clear. More information is available by calling the Bainbridge Village Office 607-967-7373 or the Chenango County Health Department at 607-337-1673.

Governor Kathy Hochul today announced that nearly $140 million in federal funding is available to support counter-terrorism and emergency preparedness efforts across the state. The funding is provided by FEMA to support local security preparedness efforts, Locally Otsego & Chenango Counties receive over $58,000, Delaware County over $53,000.

Otsego County Emergency Services reported that Milford Fire Fighters responded to a fire on Lee Drive Monday Night. Multiple fire crews from the surrounding area assisted, 2 people were in the residence, 1 suffered minor injuries, a vehicle was damaged, the Red Cross responded to assist the displaced residents, the cause of the fire is under investigation.

State Police Troop C Traffic Incident Management Unit conducted an Operation Hard Hat enforcement detail on I-81 in near Homer Monday, where highway crews were making pavement and pothole repairs. During the enforcement, Troopers issued a total of 60 citations and made one arrest, 49 year old Rashi Brown of Illinois for Unlawfully Fleeing a Police Officer in a Motor Vehicle and 10 traffic violations. Police issued 25 speeding tickets, 10 for failing to use seat belts, 10 for using an electronic device while driving & 1 for failing to move over.

New York Attorney General Letitia James called for the passage of the One Fair Price law, which would ban surveillance pricing in New York state. Surveillance pricing is when companies use algorithms to analyze consumers spending habits, and then determine the highest price they will pay for a product. James said that 2 neighbors could buy the same product at the same time but pay different prices, The package includes 2 bills, one for online shopping and one for traditional retail stores. The bills also ban the use of electronic shelf labels in grocery stores and pharmacies.

A.M. NEWS MONDAY 5-11-26

State Police announced a 35% increase in vehicle and traffic tickets issued during this year’s Operation Hard Hat initiative, from April 20 through April 24th. State Police conducted 12 enforcement details across the state. Troopers were deployed within active work zones, 967 tickets were issued, 401 for speeding, 138 for distracted driving, 160 for violations of New York’s Move Over Law. In Troop c there were 65 tickets issued, 34 of those were for speeding,

A heavy presence of emergency responders and volunteers from both New York and Pennsylvania are searching for 18-year-old Dalton Malmstrom, who was last seen leaving his residence near the Susquehanna River in the town of Nichols, at 7:45 am. Saturday, Family members told Police that he was not acting like himself prior to leaving. Dalton is described as a 5-foot-10 white male with dark hair and was last seen wearing a dark-colored shirt. Anyone who with information regarding his whereabouts is urged to contact the State Police at (607) 561-7400 immediately, a picture is posted at the State Police Facebook page.

P.M. NEWS THURSDAY 4-23-26

The results are in for the Otsego County Solid Waste Plastic Film Recycling challenge, where students were encouraged to recycle bread-bags and similar plastics, Otsego County Waste Management & Recycling Coordinator Kyle King told WCDO News who the winners were:

(Kyle King 4-23-26)

King said that each winning district will get an ice cream social Sponsored by Stewart's

Governor Hochuls's Office announced that $237.7 Million Dollars was returned to New Yorkers in 2025. The Department of Financial Services Returned $134 million to Consumers and Health Care Providers, the Public Service Commission Helped Over 75,000 New Yorkers with Complaints in 2025, Collecting Nearly $66 Million for Consumers, the Department of Labor Recovered More Than $35 Million in Wage Theft and Collected $2.2 Million in Penalties. Also, the Division of Consumer Protection Helped Over 27,000 New Yorkers, collecting Nearly $2.7 Million for Consumers, New Yorkers Can File a Complaint at dfs.ny.gov/complaint.

The Delaware County Sheriff Craig DuMond reported to the Board of Supervisors meeting this week, that the road patrol division responded to 18,518 total calls for service in 2025, arrests were up 6.2% last year from 2024, traffic tickets increased by 5.4% and motor vehicle accidents saw an increase of 37.66%. The office's Criminal Investigations Division investigated 740 cases last year, including 69 where warrants were requested, making 64 arrests. The corrections division saw a 28% reduction in the number of inmates processed into the jail in 2025.

A.M. NEWS Thursday 4-23-26

State Police arrested 23 year old Bradley Scymanski of Newark Valley after a road rage incident that resulted in shots fired. Scymanski was charged with Attempted Assault, Criminal Possession of a Weapon, Criminal Use of a Firearm & Reckless Endangerment, An investigation determined that on Wednesday afternoon, a road rage incident between 2 vehicles occurred on East Main Street in the town of Union, when Scymanski allegedly discharged a firearm at the other vehicle, No injuries were reported. Scymanski was located and taken into custody without incident, he was processed & then turned over to the Broome County Jail for Centralized Arraignment, where he was remanded without bail.

State Police in Troop C conducted an “Operation Hard Hat” detail Wednesday along State Route 17 in the town of Windsor. The detail coincides with National Work Zone Awareness Week, 65 citations were issued; 34 for Speeding, 8 for Seat-belt compliance, 4 for Operating an electronic device, 9 for Failure to move over and 10 for other assorted violations.

Broome County officials announced today that they have received $854,370.00 in New York State funding through the STRIVE II program to cut down on domestic violence. This funding will support a coordinated countywide effort to improve outcomes for victims of domestic violence and strengthen public safety.

State Police issued 109 tickets during a four-hour long Operation Hard Hat detail within a work zone on Interstate 81 in the town of Chenango Thursday. The detail was a combined effort with the State Police and the Broome County Sheriff’s Department, Crews from the DOT were repairing the bridge rail over Front Street. The area is a 55mph zone and just the left lane was closed, while two others were still open to accommodate traffic. Troopers charged 27 for using cell phones while driving, 36 for speeding, 27 for no seat belt, 19 other cvarious tickets were issued.

Delaware County Sheriff's Deputies arrested 50 year old Adam Zuk of Masonville for his non-compliance to Family Court Order of Protection. On August 18th, Deputies o served Zuk with a Delaware County Family Court Order of Protection, he was advised that he needed to vacate the property, Zuk failed to comply, he was charged with Criminal Contempt, he was processed, arraigned & was released on his own recognizance. On August 20th, Deputies were advised that Zuk had attempted to make telephone contact with the protected party, he was charged with Criminal Contempt, he was arraigned and was being held at the Delaware County Correctional Facility on $5,000 cash bail and $10,000 bond.

The Bainbridge Chamber of Commerce will be holding their annual "Bainbridge Days" this Saturday throughout the village, Mayor Phil Wade explains:

(Phil Wade 8-29-25)

The full schedule can be found at the Bainbridge Chamber of Commerce Facebook page, also the 3rd Annual Community Health Fair will be held Saturday from 10 AM to 3 PM at the Bainbridge Village Green, in conjunction with the Bainbridge Days celebration, organizer Reverend Kenneth Simurra told WCDO News about some of the organizations that are already signed up to participate:

(Kenneth Simurra 8-29-25)

Reverend Simurra said that the 1st Presbyterian, Bainbridge and United Presbyterian, East Guilford along with St. Peter’s Episcopal Church have teamed up to help present the Community Health Fair, more information is available at 845-522-4200.

The Otsego County Sheriff's Office, Department of Health & The Governor's Traffic Safety Committee will host a Child Car Seat Safety Check Saturday at the Oneonta Home Depot on State Highway 28 from 11:00 AM to 2:00 PM. Certified Technicians will make sure that seats are installed properly & answer questionb particicpants in the Saturday event.

P.M. NEWS THURSDAY 7-31-25

Spiedie Fest returns to Otsiningo Park in Binghamton Friday through Sunday with a full line up of activities according to Organizer Dave Pessagno:

(Dave Pessagno 8-1-25)

Pessagno also said that All of the information, schedules & tickets can be found at spiediefest.com.

U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand is calling for the Kay Hagan Tick Re-authorization Act, named after the late South Carolina lawmakers who died from a tick borne illness:

(GILLIBRAND 7-31-25)

Senator Gillibrand said that reported cases of Lyme disease in New York have skyrocketed in recent years, from about 2,200 in 2020 to over 22,000 in 2023, which shows the need for the act & additional funding for research.

The Binghamton Rumble Ponies game tonight has been postponed due to the thunderstorms in the region, the game will be made up as part of a doubleheader on Saturday at Mirabito Stadium.

A.M. NEWS Thursday 7-31-25

Troopers from the Troop “C” Traffic Incident Management Unit partnered with the DOT for an Operation Hard Hat enforcement detail on I-86/State Route 17 east where crews were completing bridge work in the town of Vestal. State Police issued 54 total citations, 20 for using cellphones, 16 for speeding, 11 for no seat-belt, 2 for improper child restraints.

P.M. NEWS TUESDAY 7-15-25

State Police are reminding motorists this summer to obey the state's Move Over Law. The law was passed several years ago to protect law enforcement, Emergency squads, Transportation Department Road crews, and was amended to add town truck operators & others who may have to attend to a road side emergency. State Police are continuing with their "Operation Hard Hat" details, where they set up at construction sites and make sure that motorists are slowing down in Construction zones, fines are much higher for those who speed in the work zones.

The 29th Annual Delaware County Clean Sweep will be held in October this year, where residents can properly dispose of a variety of household chemicals, Solid Waste Coordinator Tyson Robb told WCDO News that resident, farms & businesses can start registering now:

(Tyson Robb 7-15-25)

Robb said that for those without the internet, there will be a 2 week period in September to phone in for a registration period.

The US census Bureau has released statistics showing that New York State lost nearly 121,000 residents to other states in 2024, yet the state's Population increased by 129,000 people. The census bureau reported that almost 14% came from New Jersey, 11.5% came from California, 9.3% came from neighboring Pennsylvania, 7% left Florida fro New York, followed by Massachusetts, Connecticut, Texas & Virginia.

The 2026 property tax levy growth will be capped at 2% for local governments that operate on a calendar-based fiscal year, according to State Comptroller Tom DiNapoli. This figure affects tax cap calculations for all counties, towns, and fire districts, as well as 44 cities and 13 villages. DiNapoli’s office calculated the 2026 inflation factor at 2.64%, The tax cap, limits annual tax levy increases to the lesser of the rate of inflation or 2% with certain exceptions. The law also includes a provision that allows municipalities to override the cap.

A.M. NEWS Tuesday 7-15-25

Delaware County District Attorney Shawn Smith announced the unsealing of an indictment that charged 44 year old Chad Walters of Unadilla, with 1st degree Rape, for allegedly forcibly raping a physically incapacitated female at the victim’s home in Sidney in 2024. The case was presented to a Grand Jury, a warrant for Walters arrest was issued, Sidney Police attempted to locate him, he was found in Texas, he was taken into custody, and was returned to New York by Sidney Police Detective Sergeant Dionne and Officer Wheeler. Walters was returned to Delaware County Court and the indictment was unsealed, Walters was arraigned on the rape charge & he was remanded to the custody of the Delaware County Sheriff on $50,000 cash bail or $250,000 bond.

P.M. NEWS TUESDAY 4-22-25

Chobani announced plans to build another plant in New York State, which will be a $1.2 billion facility Rome’s Griffiss Business and Technology Park. The Project would add another 1000 jobs in addition to the 1100 jobs at the South Edmeston & Norwich facilities. Chobani also employs 1,100 people at a yogurt plant in Twin Falls, Idaho, and they recently announced an expansion in Twin Falls that is expected to create a minimum of 160 new jobs.

4 Towns Forward Community Yard & Garage Sales will be held on Saturday, May 3rd starting at 9:00 am until 2:00 pm, the deadline for those interested in participating is coming right up, spokesperson Teri Schunk explains:

(Teri Schunk 4-1-25)

Schunk said that for those outside the towns, space in the downtown areas can be reserved by email to dnabinger10@gmail.com.

Recruit New York events are coming up this weekend around the state, where area Fire Departments & emergency squads are looking to add to their ranks, Assemblyman Joe Angelino still volunteers with the Norwich Fire Department, he told WCDO News that the fire departments need younger members, in order to continue to provide quality service:

(Angelino 4-22-25)

WCDO News spoke with Joe Angelino & Roger Barnhart of the Bainbridge Fire Department about local companies participating in the recruit New York weekend, that full interview can be heard Thursday evening following the 6:00 PM news. more information is available at recruitny.org.

A.M. NEWS TUESDAY 4-22-25

State Police Troop “C” Traffic Incident Management Unit partnered up with the DOT for an Operation Hard Hat enforcement detail in Kirkwood. DOT crews were out on Interstate 81 north completing bridge work, The work zone where the detail was held had signage reminding motorists that it’s a work zone with a lowered speed limit and that one of three lanes was shut down, In about four hours, 69 tickets were issued: 52 for speeding, 11 for cell phone us & 1 failure to move over

On Saturday, evening, Broome County Sheriff's Office responded to a one-car accident on I-88 East near Exit 3 Port Crane. The responding deputy found a juvenile passenger from the crashed vehicle alert and conscious, being tended to by a bystander after having crawled out of the wreck. The deputy successfully located the crashed vehicle on an embankment, on its roof with the driver trapped inside, the deputy cut the driver’s seat belt and successfully pulled the driver out, both were transported to UHS Wilson Medical Center, The initial investigation showed that the driver had been driving recklessly at a high rate of speed before crashing into the right side of an embankment. The driver was initially issued several traffic violations, but the accident is still under investigation.

Walmart has recalled nearly 10,000 cases of apple juice sold in stores across the U.S. that were found to contain potentially harmful levels of inorganic arsenic. The recall applies to 9,535 cases of Great Value brand apple juice sold in 25 states, including New York State, as well as Puerto Rico and the District of Columbia. Florida-based manufacturer Refresco Beverages voluntarily recalled the contaminated 6-packs of 8-ounce juice bottles after discovering levels of the chemical contaminant that exceeded industry standards.

The TOPS Club, Inc. which stands for "Take Off Pounds Sensibly", picked Barbara Rifenburgh of West Davenport, who lost 117.25 pounds, she was the 2023 New York Queen or TOPS, & was honored at a ceremony last year, WCDO Spoke with Barbara Rifenburgh about her journey with the TOPS program

(Barb Rifenburg 8-21-24)

Today there are about 65,000 TOPS members, spread out over all 50 states and Canada, The Oneonta Chapter that Barb attends meets Mondays at 5:00 PM at the Elm Park Methodist Church on Chestnut Street. More information about the TOPS program & locations can be found at tops.org, the full interview with Barbara Rifenburg will be aired Thursday Morning at 8:40AM.

A.M. NEWS MONDAY 8-26-24

State Police responded to Otsego County Road 23 and Wing Hill Road in the town of Exeter Friday Afternoon for a two vehicle crash. A 4 door sedan was making a left turn on a sharp curve onto Wing Hill Road when the driver did not see an SUV from the opposite direction, The vehicles collided and both caught fire, A passerby with a fire extinguisher assisted in getting a family out of the sedan and another person assisted the driver of the SUV out of their vehicle. 3 LifeNet helicopters responded to the area. 3 children & the driver of the sedan; Nicole Rinaldo of Ilion were transported to various hospitals, The driver of the SUV, 52 year old Michael Salon of Herkimer, was transported by helicopter to Albany Medical Center with non-life-threatening injuries.

State Police Troop “C” Traffic Incident Management unit in partnership with the Department of Transportation held an Operation Hard Hat enforcement in Windsor along State Highway 17 east between exits 78 and 79. In just over four hours, 75 tickets were issued, 58 for Speeding, including 1 person was observed and ticketed for traveling 92 mph in the 55 mph active work zone.

Otsego County Sheriff's office arrested 41 year old Justin Ingalls of Milford for Reckless Endangerment of Property, Criminal Possession of Controlled Substance, Trespassing & Aggravated Unlicensed Operation, following an investigation following an incident at Apple Foods Store in Milford. Ingalls was held at the Otsego County Correctional Facility.

P.M. NEWS THURSDAY 9-21-23

The Bainbridge Lions Club will conclude their annual fundraising raffle Saturday, when they give away a Zero Turn Lawn mower & other prizes & McDowell & Walker in Sidney, Lions spokesman Cliff Crouch told WCDO News that the money raised goes to a good cause:

(Cliff Crouch 9-21-23)

Crouch said that people can still buy the raffle tickets at McDowell & Walker, Johns Garage or through a Lions club Member, the winners will be announced Saturday at 12:00 Noon at McDowell & Walker.

A.M. NEWS THURSDAY 9-21-23

The Small Business Resource Fair will be held today from 4:00 to 6:00 pm, Sidney Community Cultural Center, Delaware County Chamber Of Commerce President Ray Pucci comments:

(Ray Pucci 8-21-23)

Pucci said that the event is free & open to all businesses and entrepreneurs, who registered, more information is available at delawarecounty.org.

On Wednesday, State Police Traffic Incident Management Unit issued a total of 25 tickets in Broome County during an “Operation Hard Hat” detail. Troopers monitored traffic on State Route 17 in the town of Sanford where road crews were doing bridge work. Of the 25 tickets issued, 9 were for speeding, 6 for seatbelt violations & the rest for a variety of offenses.

Broome County Sheriff's Deputies responded Monday in the Town of Fenton for a Burglary complaint. The homeowner had found an unknown man in a 2nd floor room around 1:30 AM, the intruder left on foot, a laptop computer and several other electronics were missing from his residence, a downstairs window was left ajar with the screen ripped out. Deputies apprehended an individual with the stolen items in a drawstring bag, 24 year old Mitchell Paul of Binghamton, was charged with Burglary, Grand Larceny, Criminal Possession of Stolen Property & Criminal Mischief, he was taken to Central Arraignment and is currently being held at the Broome County Correctional Facility. Later that morning Deputies responded to a separate Burglary complaint in the Town of Fenton, where various items were stolen, they discovered that those items were in Mitchell Paul's drawstring bag, he was additionally charged with Burglary.

P.M. NEWS TUESDAY 8-15-23

Delaware County Acting District Attorney Shawn Smith & Delaware County Sheriff Craig DuMond announced 3 felony charges against 43 year old Cruz Garcia, an illegal immigrant accused of Rape in Fleischmanns, Smith Told WCDO News about Garcia's case:

(Shawn Smith 8-15-23)

Congressman Marc Molinaro was part of a press conference today in Delhi regarding the Garcia case, he commented to WCDO News after the press conference:

(Molinaro 8-15-23)

Molinaro said that he will work from the federal side to allow state & ICE officials to communicate, DA Smith said that Garcia was previously arrested on separate felony charges in other jurisdictions but was released due to New York State's bail reform laws forwarded by then Governor Andrew Cuomo.

The Broome County Sheriff's Office announced that a man wanted on a warrant for a Sex Offender Registration Violation last week, has been taken into custody. On Monday, Jessie Barnum was taken into custody in Binghamton by the Broome County Special Investigations Unit Task Force.

The Otsego County Law Enforcement Torch Run was held Sunday in Cooperstown with the Flame of Hope that made its way around the state in support of Special Olympics New York. There are more events coming up in the next few months, including a Special Olympics competition coming in the fall according to spokesperson Michaela Darbyshire:

(Michaela Darbyshire 8-15-23)

Special Olympics New York is the largest state chapter in the country, serving more than 42,000 athletes across New York with year-round sports training, athletic competition, and health screenings. More information is available at specialolympicsNY.org.

The Delaware County Chamber of Commerce announced that a report studying public transportation options for Delaware County is available for public review and comment, according to the Delaware County Chamber of Commerce. The Chamber has been working with various entities to assess transportation needs and opportunities in Delaware County as transportation has been a significant barrier to employment. The full Public Transportation Study report is available for review and comment under the “Resources” tab at the Chamber’s website at DelawareCounty.org.

The Co-Ed Sidney Slow Pitch Softball Tournament will be held this Saturday at Keith Clark Park in Sidney, with teams from around the state competing, the day will also be coupled with a fundraiser for the American Legion, to Help Sidney's league play at Keith Clark Park & pay for lights & other costs, according to tournament organizer Matt Walsh of Sidney:

(Matt Walsh 8-15-23)

Walsh said that Saturday's Tournament starts at 10:00 AM, anyone with questions about the tournament tor the fundraiser can call Walsh at 607-282-0094.

A.M. NEWS Tuesday 8-15-23

State Police Traffic Incident Management Unit issued a total of 38 tickets in Broome County during an “Operation Hard Hat” detail. Troopers monitored traffic on State Route 17 in the town of Sanford where road crews were doing construction work. 9 tickets were issued for speeding, 4 for using a cellphone while driving, 18 were seat belts violations & 9 other assorted tickets were issued last Thursday.

A contraband investigation led to multiple drug smuggling charges at the Broome County Sheriff’s Correctional Facility this week. 36 year old Jamell Jones was charged with 2 Counts of Promoting Prison Contraband, 2 Counts of Tampering with Physical Evidence, plus Obstructing Governmental Administration. Jones became uncooperative, & was combative with investigators, Jones was placed in a Medical Housing Unit under Contraband Protocol to monitor his health and prevent a possible overdose from the Methamphetamines that were smuggled on his person. Jones was processed at the Broome County Correctional Facility and will answer for his charges at the Town of Dickinson Court on a future date.

P.M. NEWS WEDNESDAY 7-19-23

The National Transportation Safety Board released information regarding the crash of a single engine Cessna Airplane on May 28th in the town of Plymouth at about 2:50 PM, the pilot, Shawn McMahon of Binghamton, was fatally injured. The plane flew 2 separate sky diving flights that day, a co-owner of the airplane reported that following the 2nd flight, McMahon determined that he had 40 gallons of fuel. During the accident flight, McMahon announced that the skydivers were away & he was descending rapidly, a follow up announcement was unintelligible. 1 eyewitness told investigators that an airplane flew near her house very low, with the engine sputtering & the pilot attempted to start the engine unsuccessfully & she heard the impact, another eyewitness heard the engine shut off earlier when the skydivers jumped, the engine restarted and the plane continued. The investigation is continuing.

Governor Hochul announced today that New York will be sending engineers to Perform Dam Safety Inspections in Vermont, after their recent devastating flooding. So far, New York has deployed 9 engineers from the New York Power Authority and the Department of Environmental Conservation to Montpelier, Vermont to assist in performing dam safety evaluations throughout the state. The Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services is coordinating additional incoming requests for assistance from Vermont and State agency partners stand ready to provide resources as necessary.

The Delaware County District Attorney's Office announced that 29 year old Autumn Transue of Denver Colorado was indicted for Driving While Intoxicated. On March 8th, Transue is alleged to have operated a motor vehicle while intoxicated, she was stopped by the Colchester police. The indictment accused Transue of felony DWI, & driving with a blood alcohol content over .08%. A warrant for Transue's arrest has been issued, if she fails to appear, the DA’s office will work on extradiction.

WCDO Sports Director Nate Lull held his 2nd Golf Tournament to raise money for the Nate Lull Scholarship that he has established for students in the region, Lull told WCDO News how much was raised with Sunday's tournament at the Ouleout Golf Course in Franklin:

(Nate Lull 7-19-23)

Lull said that he is planning more fundraisers in the fall, the information will be available at NateLull.com.

State Police issued 39 tickets in Broome County during an “Operation Hard Hat” detail. Troopers from the Troop C Traffic Incident Management Unit monitored traffic on State Route 17 in the town of Sanford where road crews were completing bridge work. The 39 tickets issued included 13 for speeding, 8 for cell phone use while driving, 12 were for not wearing seatbelts, and 6 were for other assorted violations.

The Gus Macker Basketball Tournament is returning to Norwich this summer after a 2 year break due to the COVID 19 pandemic. Organizer Tom Revoir told WCDO that the tournament will be in a new location, and that volunteers are needed:

(Tom Revoir 6-23-22)

Those who would like to register a team to play in this summers Macker Tournament can go online by Monday June 27th at Macker.com, those who want to volunteer can call Tom Revoir or Jamey Mullen at the Norwich YMCA at 336-9622.

Law Enforcement agencies are warning Motorcyclists to watch out for deer on state roads, following an uptick in that type of accident. More people are rising motorcycles due to the summer weather and the high gas prices, a Steuben County Motorcyclist had to be airlifted after his bike his a deer earlier today, about 1 in 11 accidents with motorcycles involve deer.

The Affordable Care Act’s premium tax credits are set to expire in the coming months, U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand is urging her colleagues to extend this coverage and save millions of Americans from losing their health care coverage:

(Gillibrand 6-23-22)

Gillibrand said that the tax credits were included in the American Rescue Plan Act, the credits are due to expire at the end of 2022.

State Comptroller Tom DiNapoli's office recently conducted an audit of the Franklin Central School. The Key Findings were that District officials did not adequately manage network user accounts, periodically compare installed software to an authorized software inventory or develop an IT contingency plan. In addition to finding sensitive information technology control weaknesses, the audit found that 9 of the District’s network user accounts were not needed. District officials generally agreed with the Audit's recommendations and have initiated or indicated they planned to initiate corrective action.

Governor Kathy Hochul signed Alyssa's Law, requiring schools to consider the use of silent panic alarm systems when conducting review and development of their school safety plans. The bill is named after one of the victims of the 2019 mass shooting at the Marjorie Stoneman Douglass High School in Parkland, Florida. The panic alarm systems cost just a few thousand dollars to purchase, and can be implemented in the classroom as a smartphone app.

A.M. NEWS Thursday 6-23-22

State Police issued 15 tickets in Deposit Tuesday during an "Operation Hard Hat" detail. Troopers monitored traffic on the Interstate through Deposit while road crews made bridge repairs. During the detail, a trooper blends in with the workers and watches for risky and unsafe behavior. 15 tickets were issued, 11 of them were for Speeding.

P.M. NEWS WEDNESDAY 5-4-22

The Delaware Valley Humane Society Pop Up Program stopped at the WCDO Studios this morning, Society Director Erin Insinga brought 3 Kittens ready for adoption, she told WCDO news about her pop up idea:

(Erin Insinga 5-4-22)

Insinga does Facebook Live videos at each business that she visits, the program will go into June, as they hope to get more adoptions than usual during a traditionally slow time of the year for adoptions.

The General Clinton Canoe Regatta is fast approaching over the Memorial Day Weekend, Regatta Chairman John Harmon told WCDO News that the Youth Races are Friday this year, and they need more participation:

(John Harmon 5-4-22)

The General Clinton Canoe Regatta will from from Friday May 27th through Sunday Night the 29th, there will be no activity on Monday Memorial Day this year.

The State DEC is reminding area residents that the annual burn ban remains in effect until May 14th. The ban was implemented more than a decade ago to prevent wildfires during a traditionally dry & windy period of the years, when brush fires can start & spread quickly. The State Rangers recently ticketed an Unidentified Town of Hartwick man who attempted to get rid of Blueberry bushes on his property by burning them.

State Police announced that Construction season is here again and Operation Hard Hat will return. Motorists can expect to see workers on the roadway rain or shine, & State Police will be manning the work zones to help keep work zones safe. Police remind motorists to follow the signs, slow down, and stay off electronic devices. & that fines are higher for those who speed in work zones.

On April 28th 2022, members of the Delaware County Sheriff’s Office Criminal Investigation Division received a report that an assault occurred in the Delaware County Correctional Facility involving two inmates. Martin Planty Jr, of Walton assaulted another inmate by striking the other inmate, causi9ng injuries to the victim's face and chest. On Tuesday, Planty was charged with 2nd degree Assault, he was arraigned at the Town of Delhi Court, he was returned to the Delaware County Correctional facility.

A.M. NEWS WEDNESDAY 5-4-22

State Police made 3 arrests during an Underage Drinking Initiative in Chenango County last Friday. Alcohol was sold to a minor at 3 Norwich establishments; Nazzitto’s Wine & Liquors, Norwich Fresh Market & South End Wine & Liquor, An appearance ticket was issued to each clerk who sold alcohol to the minor. 10 other business were in compliance in Sherburne & Norwich.

Binghamton Police responded to the report of shots fired, officers arrested 18 year old Savon Turell of Binghamton, on multiple counts of Criminal Possession of a Weapon & 2 counts Criminal Possession of Stolen Property & 38 year old Nayquen McKoy of Binghamton, on several counts of Criminal Possession of a Weapon & 2 counts Criminal Possession of Stolen Property. Police discovered that shots were fired from 2 SUV's, several firearms were seized & no one was injured & the investigation is ongoing.

In The City of Norwich, Residents will be voting for a new Mayor, as Shawn Sastri has declined to seek re-election, Republican candidate Brian Doliver told WCDO News that the drug problem & infrastructure are his top p[priorities if elected:

(Brian Doliver 11-2-21)

Democratic Candidate John Quattrocchi told WCDO News that as a lifelong Norwich resident, change is needed to grow the city:

(John Quattrocchi 11-2-21)

Voting will be held until 9:00 PM.

In the City of Oneonta, Residents will be voting for a new Mayor, as long time Mayor Gary Herzig decided to not seek re-election, Democratic Candidate Mark Drnek told WCDO news that his vision is to add people & jobs to Oneonta:

(Mark Drnek 11-2-21)

Republican Candidate Len Carson told WCDO News that he feels his public service & experience will help him as Mayor:

(Len Carson 11-2-21)

Both Drnek & Carson have been serving as Oneonta City Aldermen, voting will be until 9:00 PM.

Former Assembly Republican Minority Leader Brian Kolb pleaded guilty Monday to driving while ability impaired, relating to an incident on New Year's Eve 2019 in Ontario County. Police reported that Kolb was behind the wheel when he crashed his state-issued vehicle went into a ditch, he blamed the crash on his wife. Kolb stepped down from the position of Assembly Minority Leader days later, he did not seek re-election to the Assembly in November 2020.

On Wednesday, October 27th, Delaware County Sheriff’s Deputies responded to a report of a male subject acting irrational and driving at an extremely high rate of speed on State Highway 30 in the Middletown/Andes area. Responding Deputies located 29-year old James Lor of Margaretville, who is accused of operating the vehicle while in an intoxicated condition. Lor’s Driver’s license was revoked due to numerous previous DWI related suspensions. Lor was also found to be in possession of a small quantity of Cocaine. Lor was charged with Felony DWI, Aggravated Unlicensed Operation of a Motor Vehicle, Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance, along with several other charges, Lor was arraigned in the Town of Delhi Court and was released on his own recognizance, pending court action at the Town of Middletown Court at a later date.

A.M. NEWS TUESDAY 11-2-21

State Police, the Delhi Police Department, and the State University Police at Delhi responded to a fight Sunday at a large college party off campus on Scotch Mountain Road in Delhi. One person sustained stab wounds and was ultimately transported to Albany Medical Center for treatment. 3 others were treated at a local hospital for non-life-threatening injuries. The incident is still under investigation but appears to be an isolated incident. Anyone who may have witnessed the altercation is asked to call New York State Police at (607)432-3934.

16 citations were issued during an “Operation Hard Hat” detail in Broome County. On October 28, 2021, Troopers monitored traffic in the active work zone on State Route 17 east to Interstate 81 north in the city of Binghamton. Road crews were replacing concrete pavement. During the detail, a trooper blends in with the workers and watches for risky and unsafe behavior. 5 Tickets were issued for speeding, 4 for cellphone use while driving, 2 for violating seat belt laws & 5 for other assorted violations.

Local sales tax collections totaled $5.2 billion in the third quarter (July-September of 2021), up $861 million (20%) from the same period last year and continuing the trend of exceeding pre-pandemic levels, according to a report released today from State Comptroller Thomas P. DiNapoli. Statewide, every region saw solid growth in sales tax collections during the third quarter compared to the same period last year. Outside of New York City, the July-September period marked the fifth consecutive quarter that county and city sales tax receipts met or exceeded pre-pandemic levels. Statewide local sales tax collections in the third quarter of 2021 grew 8.6% ($409 million) over the pre-pandemic third quarter of 2019.

Governor Kathy Hochul announced that she will fire individuals who allegedly contributed to a culture that allowed for sexual harassment under former Governor Andrew Cuomo who resigned this week after the the report by Attorney General Letitia James alleged that Cuomo sexually harassed 11 women. Former Cuomo Staffer Melissa DeRosa & Linda Lacewell have already resigned, Governor Hochul said that she would finish assembling her team within 45 days of her inauguration.

State Police announced that the driver in a fatal accident on I-81 in the town of Triangle Tuesday evening was 64 year old Paul Fridley of Fenton, Missouri. Troopers were dispatched Tuesday at about 6:15 PM for the report of a vehicle on its side & on fire. State Police are asking anyone who may have witness the crash of the Kia Sedona with Missouri plates, to call them at 775-1241.

The State Department of Transportation announced that State Route 28 near Frank Slawson and Epps roads in the town of Franklin will close September 7th, for a culvert replacement over Knapp Brook. DOT Officials stated that motorists on State Route 28 will be detoured to take state Route 23 to Davenport Center and then take county Highway 10 to Meridale to connect back to state Route 28, the project is expected to be completed on September 22nd.

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Sidney Chamber of Commerce announced their "Halfway to St. Patrick's Day Hooley" event, to be held on Saturday September 25th in downtown Sidney, Chamber President Teri Schunk explains:

(Teri Schunk 8-26-21)

The Chamber is looking for parade participants, they can message the chamber through their Facebook page or email the chamber at office @sidneychamber.org.

A.M. NEWS THURSDAY 8-26-21

Governor Kathy Hochul has directed the State Department of Health to institute a universal mask requirement in all public & private schools, as determined necessary at the discretion of the Commissioner. The Department of Health will issue the requirement through regulatory action established by the Public Health and Health Planning Council. Governor Hochul will also pursue options to mandate vaccines for school employees or require weekly testing in the absence of vaccines and will continue to work with the Department of Health and the Legislature on establishing the mandate.

State Police issued over 40 citations during an Operation Hard Hat detail in Broome County Wednesday. Troopers were set up while workers completed bridge work along I-81 in Binghamton, Police issued 25 tickets for speeding, 3 for failing to use seat belts, 3 for using a cell phone use, & 10 others for other infraction.

P.M. NEWS FRIDAY 8-20-21

State police have identified the deceased in a Hit & Run Motor Vehicle & Pedestrian accident on August 15th, or 16th as 72 year old Alan Weill of Oneonta. State Police continue to ask the public to call them at 561-7400 if they were in the area and may have observed anything. Police announced earlier in the week that that had located the vehicle involved in the hit & run accident, which occurred on State Route 205 near Country Club Road in the town of Oneonta.

Delaware County Public Health received 61 new positive cases of COVID-19 in the last week; there are currently 90 active cases in the county with 3 hospitalizations & 126 quarantined. According to The CDC Delaware County is currently at high level of community transmission. The CDC and Delaware County Public Health recommend that everyone, even those who are fully vaccinated, wear a mask in indoor public locations, to maximize protection from all variants. In New York State, the Delta variant of COVID-19 has been found to be the predominant strain of COVID-19 currently circulating.

State Police reported that 27 citations were issued during an Operation Hard Hat detail in Broome County Thursday. Troopers were set up while workers completed bridge work along Interstate 81 in Binghamton; they issued 19 tickets for speeding, 2 for violating seatbelt laws, & 6 for other violations.

The CDC recommends that people with moderately to severely compromised immune systems should receive an additional dose of a COVID-19 vaccine about 28 days after a 2nd dose of either the Pfizer or Moderna COVID-19 vaccines. The additional dose of COVID-19 vaccine is recommended only for those being treated for solid tumors or malignancies, those who have had organ transplants, those receiving STEM cell transplants, those being treated with certain cortisone therapies, or those with Chenango County Public Health will host a 3rd dose Moderna Vaccine Clinic on September 1st, at the South Plaza in Norwich from 10:00 AM to 12:00 Noon. Appointments or More information regarding eligibility is available at 337-1660.

Delaware County Sheriff's Office arrested 2 people Tuesday after Deputies responded to a burglary reported in the Town of Hamden. The home owner's Video captured 2 subjects, 1 with a handgun, who forcefully entered the home. Randy Hawkins of Morris was taken into custody by State Police; George Klinger was taken into custody at his Morris residence by members of the Delaware County Sheriff's Office and State Police. Officers executed a search warrant at Hawkins’ and Klinger’s Morris residence and recovered a quantity of firearms, ammunition and other property reported stolen in recent Delaware County burglaries. Hawkins and Klinger were charged with 1st degree burglary and criminal use of a firearm, they were arraigned in the Town of Hamden Court, Hawkins was remanded to the Delaware County Correctional Facility on $75,000 cash bail and Klinger was remanded on $40,000 cash bail. The investigation is on-going and more arrests are anticipated.

A.M. NEWS FRIDAY 8-20-21

The Rotary Club of Sidney and the Cullman Developmental Center will hold an event for children this Sunday, from 1:00 to 3:00 pm, "The Buzz about Honeybees" will be held at Keith Clark Park on River Street in Sidney, Rotary Spokesman Larry Halbert told WCDO News that it is a safe event for the children:

(Larry Halbert 8-20-21)

Halbert said that the children in attendance will see honeybees contained behind a glass enclosure, & they will get samples of honey to take home.

The Afton Sidewalk Day returns tomorrow along Main Street & Caswell Street in Downtown Afton, Event coordinator Melissa Matthews of 6Zero7 Events told WCDO that there will fundraisers & vendors set up downtown:

(Melissa Matthews 8-20-21)

The event in Afton runs from 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM, the full lineup of events & participants is available at aftonsidewalkday.com, or on their Facebook page.

The Chenango Blues Festival begins tonight in the Chenango County Fair Grounds in Norwich, the show is Free to all but unvaccinated individuals should wear a mask and social distance. Blues festival Spokesman Eric Larsen told WCDO News that they have a full line up of great acts & all safety protocols are in place:

(Eric Larsen 8-20-21)

Larsen said that the Main show will be at the Chenango County Fairgrounds Saturday, tickets will be only be available at chenangobluesfest.org/tickets.

P.M. NEWS TUESDAY 4-27-21

Governor Cuomo visited SUNY Binghamton today and he announced that beginning Thursday, all New York State mass vaccination sites will be Open to eligible New Yorkers 16 and older, for walk-in vaccination on a first come first serve basis. Broome County Executive Jason Garnar urged Broome County Residents to take advantage of this change:

(Garnar 4-27-21)

The Governor also announced the mass vaccination site located at 10 Gannett Drive in Johnson City will move inside the building at the same address, to allow for increased capacity and will be less impacted by any adverse weather conditions.  The Governor stated that the metrics that the state is following will allow for re-opening to continue:

(Cuomo 4-27-21)

The walk-in appointments are reserved for first doses only with second doses to be scheduled automatically after administration of the initial shot. Additionally, all vaccine providers are encouraged to likewise allow walk-in appointments and for eligible New Yorkers.

39 organizations in the Southern Tier region were awarded grants totaling $276,168 from the Community Foundation for South Central New York. The successful grant applications will be used for a variety of capital projects, operations, COVID-19 related needs, and programming.  Organizations funded included, among others; museums, theater groups, libraries, school districts, human service agencies, animal welfare, and recreational programs.

Chenango County Public Health reported 6 new COVID 19 cases today, bringing their total up to 3219.  They reported 116 active cases, 6 hospitalizations & 455 quarantines.

The Sidney Center Improvement Group will hold a fundraising bake sale this Sunday at 11:00 AM.  The event will be held at the Fire Station Field at the corner of Routes 35 & 23 in Sidney Center

39 organizations in the Southern Tier region were awarded grants totaling $276,168 from the Community Foundation for South Central New York. The successful grant applications will be used for a variety of capital projects, operations, COVID-19 related needs, and programming.  Organizations funded included, among others; museums, theater groups, libraries, school districts, human service agencies, animal welfare, and recreational programs.

A.M. NEWS TUESDAY 4-27-21

Delaware County Public Health reported 11 new COVID cases on Saturday Sunday & Monday combined, The County reports 115 active cases, 19 hospitalized & they are down to 180 quarantined

State Police will conduct “Operation Hard Hat” through this Friday, where they will be patrolling State DOT & Thruway Authority construction sites, to make sure that motorists are obeying flagged personnel & are slowing down in construction zones, Last year State Police issued 1770 tickets during “Operation Hard Hat” which was a 70% increase over 2019.

The Online Learner’s Permit for class D & M driver’s licenses is now available online to New Yorkers, Following a successful pilot program launched last year.  The new service allows people to take the learner’s permit at home, which will cut down on the number of people in DMV offices statewide; more information is available at dmv.ny.gov.

The U.S Census Bureau announced that New York State will lose 1 seat in the House of Representatives, due to the continuing population shifts away from the Northeast, to southern & western States.  New York will have 26 representatives in Congress after redistricting; New York is one of 7 state losing Congressional seats, following the 2020 census.

The Silo Restaurant in Greene has been put up for sale by owners Gary Kurz & his wife Joanne, after operating for more than 4 decades, Kurz told WCDO News about the decision:

(Gary Kurz 12-4-20)

Kurz said that he will continue to operate the restaurant until it is sold along with other area properties they have.

An Upside Down Parade day will be held in Afton tomorrow, after the annual Christmas Parade had to be cancelled due to COVID 19.  Mellissa Matthews of 6Zero7 events told WCDO News that they will be doing instead of the parade:

(Melissa Matthews 12-4-20)

The full schedule is available at the "Afton In Winter" Facebook Page.

State Police conducted an Underage Drinking Initiative that spanned 3 counties, an employee at Blue Ox on State Route 8 in the town of Guilford was found to be not in compliance with the laws dealing with the sale of alcohol to person under the age of 21.  22 year old Matthew Tubbs of Norwich was charged with Prohibited Sale to a Person Under the Age of 21, He was issued an appearance ticket to the town of Guilford court.

Chenango County Public Health announced that they had 652 COVID 19 cases since March, with 51 Active Cases, 268 Quarantines & 4 Hospitalizations. there have been 11 deaths, 588 recoveries & over 45,700 tests performed.

Broome County Health Department announced that they had 106 more COVID 19 positive cases Friday, bringing their total up to 5596 since the Spring, they have 622 active cases, with 30 hospitalized, there were 4 more deaths, their death toll is up to 140, over 4200 are being monitored by the Health Department.

A.M. NEWS FRIDAY 12-4-20

State Police issued 1,779 tickets during this year's Operation Hardhat, an initiative between State Police, the State Department of Transportation and others, to crack down on work zone violations and highlight the importance of safe driving when encountering construction, maintenance and emergency operations along state highways.   The number of violations issued was 69.8% Higher than the 2019 Operation Hard Hat.

The Sidney Chamber of Commerce is holding a virtual Tree Lighting Ceremony this afternoon at 5:00 PM.  Sidney Chamber President Teri Schunk explains:

(Teri Schunk 12-3-20)

Schunk said that the event can be found through the Sidney Chamber of Commerce Facebook page with a "Facebook Live" Event.

Governor Cuomo reported that the state tested over 203,000 people Wednesday, with 9855 new positive tests for COVID 19.  Patient Hospitalization were up to 4,063, the Number of ICU patients was up to 783 with 377 on ventilators, there were 61 deaths, the state death told is now at  26,955.

The 24th Annual Delaware County Clean Sweep began today & continues Saturday.  Farms, businesses & local governments will bring their hazardous materials for collection Friday at their designated times, households that have registered will bring their hazardous items Saturday.

State Police responded at about 12:15 today to a report of a vehicle that went off the roadway near the on County Route 13 in the town of Pittsfield.  2 passengers in the vehicle did not survive the crash; the driver of the vehicle was transported to Bassett Hospital for an evaluation.   The investigation is on-going.

State Police will be working in Work Zones along state highways this summer, making sure that Motorists are obeying the Move Over Laws & other laws during "Operation Hard Hat"  Trooper Aga Dembinska of Troop C in Sidney explains:

(Trooper Aga 7-15-20)

During last year's "Operation Hardhat" enforcement,  State Police issued 1,048 tickets across the state, including 493 speeding violations, 92 cell phone violations, 94 seatbelt, 72 move over violations among many other infractions.

The State Health Department announced that the number of Coronavirus cases Tuesday increased by 831  or about 1.3% of those tested, bringing the states total number of cases to 404,006.  831 people were hospitalized due to the virus, 94 were on ventilators, and there were 9 deaths, bringing the total since March to 25,003.

Congressman Antonio Delgado announced that his local offices in Oneonta & Delhi are open for in person meetings by appointment only.  More information is available at delgado.house.gov or by calling the main office in Kingston at 845-443-2930.

Property tax levy growth for local governments with fiscal years closing Dec. 31 will be capped at 1.56% for 2021, according to State Comptroller Tom DiNapoli. This figure affects tax cap calculations for all counties, towns, fire districts, 44 cities and 11 villages.   The tax cap limits annual tax levy increases to the lesser of the rate of inflation or 2% with certain exceptions, including a provision that allows municipalities to override it.