WCDO Radio News

There are maybe about a dozen VIP Tickets left for the Southern Tier Music Fest on July 4th in Sidney, featuring local musical acts & Headliner Jackson Dean, Teri Schunk is one of the organizers of the event & she talked to WCDO News today that the time is now to get the VIP Tickets:

(Teri Schunk 6-24-26)

Tickets and more information is available at southerntiermusicfest.com.

A.M. NEWS Wednesday 6-24-26

Primary election results have been released, Democrats voted for incumbent Comptroller Tom DiNapoli in a landslide over 2 challengers, Locally Democrats in the 102nd Assembly District chose Janet Tweed over 2 other candidates. In the Republican Primaries locally,New York's 19th Congressional District, Peter Oberacker won the Republican primary, advancing to the November general election to face incumbent Josh Riley, in the 51st State Senate Republican Primary, Chris Tague was the winner, for Otsego County Sheriff, Incumbent Rich Devlin & Mike Stalter were in a virtual tie with some votes still to be counted, In Afton, Town Supervisor John Lawrence wins the Republican Primary.

47 year old Eric Rossman of Stamford appeared in the Town of Harpersfield Court Monday & pleaded guilty to 1 count of Criminal Possession of Stolen Property and 1 count of Conspiracy. In August of 2025, State Police received a report of stolen tools, at a residence located on Wood Road in Jefferson, it was determined that the stolen tools had previously been moved from a house in Harpersfield. Rossman admitted that he did not originally know that the tools were stolen, as he had put his initials on many of them, Once he was aware that they were stolen, he and one co-defendant moved to evade law enforcement. Rossman was sentenced to 1 year of incarceration to be followed by a one-year conditional discharge.

Governor Kathy Hochul announced the launch of the 2026 Regional Economic Development Council Initiative, eligible REDCs will compete for funding through the $150 million ACHIEVE competition to support high-impact regional projects to advance regional goals. Up to $60 million in Regional Council Capital Funds will be made available in the 2026 Consolidated Funding Application in addition to funding from more than 20 programs to facilitate projects that advance each region’s strategic plan and state priorities. more information is available at regionalcouncils.ny.gov.

A.M. NEWS MONDAY 6-1-26

On Friday, State Police arrested Lieutenant Thomas Fellrath of the Otsego County Sheriff’s Office on multiple charges following an investigation by the State Police & the Otsego County District Attorney’s Office. Fellrath is charged with Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance, Defrauding the Government, Official Misconduct, Fellrath is accused of possessing 10 grams of cocaine during a traffic stop on the New York State Thruway in Herkimer County, At the time of his arrest, Fellrath was on-duty and driving an unmarked Otsego County Sheriff’s Office vehicle outside of Otsego County.

Delaware County has continued to transition operations of the senior meals program after Delaware Opportunities abruptly ceased operating on May 7th. Delaware County Office for the Aging has supported Senior meals both at congregate meal sites and through home meal deliveries. Congregate meal sites are now fully staffed and operational in Delhi, Hancock, Walton & Grand Gorge, the Margaretville senior meals dining center is open and located back in the Margaretville Methodist Church. The Sidney senior dining center has been temporarily relocated to the Sidney Community Cultural Center at 1 Bridge Street in Sidney, today that site will be operational to serve meals on site and prepare meals for home delivery. The County continues to work with the owners of the Sidney Senior Housing site to permanently relocate senior meals back to the senior nutrition site at 21 Liberty Street Sidney. Those interested in county employment, contact the Delaware County personnel office to inquire about these positions.

The Otsego County Sheriff's Office announce that a new labor agreement has been reached with Corrections Union, the Otsego County Board of Representatives approved a new contract for the men and women of the Otsego County Sheriff’s Office Corrections Division, making the Sheriff’s Office comparable to surrounding County agencies.

The Otsego County Solid Waste Department will host the 21st Earth Festival event from 10 am. to 3 pm. Saturday, at SUNY Oneonta, in the Chase Auditorium. Events include educational workshops, the repair Café, and activities for children, seed exchange, and a morning bird walk. County Officials will be there promoting recycling and waste diversion practices that the county has developed over the years for residents of the county.

2 more American Red Cross Blood drives are being held today, 1 in Oneonta from 1:30 pm. - 5:30 pm., at the American Legion at 279 Chestnut Street, and another from 8:00 AM to 1:00 PM at the O'Neil High School, in Walton. Book a time to give blood or platelets now by visiting RedCrossBlood.org, calling 1-800-RED CROSS or by using the Red Cross Blood Donor App.

P.M. NEWS THURSDAY 5-7-26

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

The Otsego County Sheriff's Office arrested 24 year old Alexander Woeppel of Cooperstown, for Criminal Mischief, DWI, reckless Driving and numerous related charges following an investigation into a motor vehicle accident in the Town of Milford. Woeppel was located at the scene and was found to be Intoxicated, he initially crashed into a parked vehicle, then into a private garage, he was released on appearance Tickets for town of Milford court at a later date.

Otsego County Sheriff's Office arrested 55 year old Donald Lane for Resisting Arrest, Obstructing Governmental Administration, Bail Jumping as well as on 2 Warrants, Lane was located by a Deputy in Oneonta, he had failed to appear in court for sentencing on previous felony charges, he failed to comply with verbal commands and attempted to flee on foot, he was apprehended & physically resisted arrest. Lane was then turned over to the Otsego County Correctional Facility to await arraignment, he was remanded to the Otsego County Correctional facility without bail.

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

A.M. NEWS THURSDAY 5-7-26

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

The Appalachian Regional Commission Area Development Grant opportunity for 2027 funding is now open, offering funding opportunities for non-profits, educational institutions, economic development agencies and municipalities to strengthen communities, expand workforce capacity & plan reconstruction projects. Theapplication deadline is June 15th, at southerntier8.org/how-to-apply.

A.M. NEWS WEDNESDAY 5-6-26

The Broome County Department of Public Works announced that a culvert replacement will be taking place along Old Route 17 in the Town of Sanford starting next week, the road will be closed from May 11th through August 14th, motorists will need to seek alternative routes, Detour routes will be posted for motorists to follow.

The Intensive Crisis Stabilization Center is now open and it will be one of only 12 such centers in New York State, they provide on-site care for people experiencing mental health or substance use crises, offering stabilization services for up to 24 hours. The center is for residents in the Mohawk Valley area counties, including Otsego County.

P.M. NEWS TUESDAY 4-7-26

The State DOT & the Otsego County Office of Emergency Services announced that 1 lane of eastbound travel is open on I-88 Between Exits 10 & 12 this afternoon. The work is continuing in that area and there is no timetable yet for re-opening the 2nd lane of I-88 Eastbound.

New York State Department of Transportation announced that they plan to fill 175,000 potholes across the state, now that the snow & Ice season has ended. Governor Hochul and Commissioner Dominguez joined a paving crew Monday morning to show that filling potholes is a priority this spring.

Otsego County Sheriff's Office arrested 35 year old Warren McKee of Milford for Dissemination of Indecent Material to Minors, following an investigation in to a report of a suspect engaging in sexual online communications with a subject he believed to be a juvenile. Investigation revealed that McKee utilized text messaging and instant messaging from a social media platform to solicit sex from the juvenile. McKee was located at his residence and taken in to custody without incident, he was processed and issued an Appearance Ticket returnable to the Town of Milford Court at a later date.

The State DEC & Area Fire Departments announced that the annual Burn Ban is in effect now to May 14th this year. Open Burning of brush or debris is prohibited during that time-frame, to prevent wildfires & grass fires during the traditional driest time of the year.

Registration for Hartwick College's Summer Online courses is now open, offering students a flexible way to earn credits while balancing work, internships or travel. More than 65 courses will be offered online across 3 summer sessions between May 25 and Aug. 14. Courses are open to current Hartwick students, students from other colleges, recent high school graduates, high school seniors with permission, and adult learners. For more information, including course offerings and session dates, visit hartwick.edu/summeronline.

A.M. NEWS Thursday 3-12-26

33 year old Christopher Reynolds of Hancock pleaded guilty on Tuesday, to criminal possession of a weapon after a child was injured when he shot the gun inside his home, State Police investigation revealed that on August 27, 2025 Reynolds unintentionally shot a gun inside his home, the child was taken to a nearby hospital and was treated and released.

the Otsego County Chamber of Commerce Annual Business Dinner will be held on Thursday, May 14, During the evening, they will present the awards for the Business of the Year, Eugene Bettiol Distinguished Citizen Award, Leadership Otsego Distinguished Alumni Award & Volunteer of the Year, at Foothills in Oneonta. more details will be released shortly.

WCDO NEWS Wednesday 3-4-26

State Police Responded early this morning to 1092 County Road 37 in Mount Upton for a report of a plow truck that struck a house. An investigation determined that a Chenango County Highway Department plow was traveling west on County Road 37 salting the roadway when due to slick road conditions, the plow truck lost traction going up the hill. The plow truck rolled back down the hill while the operator attempted to regain control of the plow truck but was unable to and damaged a trailer, fence, road sign then struck the house. The accident led to the Gilberstville Mount Upton School District cancelling classes today, No injuries were reported.

A.M. NEWS WEDNESDAY 3-4-26

Attorney General Letitia James released a statement as New federal rules now require many New Yorkers without dependents to meet work or activity requirements to keep their SNAP benefits, effective on March 1st, following the end of a longstanding statewide waiver. The requirements apply to people aged 18 to 64 who do not have a child under 14, who are not pregnant or caring for someone who cannot care for themselves, and do not have a disability that prevents them from working. James said that she advised SNAP recipients to watch for communications from State or local officials and to contact their local social services office if they believe they qualify for an exemption or need help meeting the requirements. More information is available at otda.ny.gov

State Department of Transportation released the state Highway Bridge statistics for each county, which includes when it was built, last inspected and what waterway it crosses, Delaware County had 16 of 448 bridges in poor condition, Otsego County had 26 out of 266 bridges in poor shape & in Chenango County a total of 15 out of 257 bridges were determined to be in poor condition. The list of bridges that will require work or replacement can be found at dot.ny.gov

There are now 3 candidates running for the New York’s 51st State Senate seat, as incumbent Republican Peter Oberacker decided to run for Congress. The 3 candidates are Democrat Michelle Frazier of Delhi, Current Republican Assemblyman Chris Tague and Sullivan County Republican Terry Bernardo, The district covers Sullivan County, Delaware, Schoharie, and Otsego counties, along with parts of Broome, Chenango, and Ulster counties.

A.M. NEWS MONDAY 2-16-26

Otsego County Sheriff's Office arrested 41 year old Kyle Wedderspoon of Morris for Sex Offender Failure to Notify of Address Change within 10 days following a complaint received in Morris. Deputies were notified that Wedderspoon was no longer living at his registered address, he is a Level 1 Sex Offender, he had been living at a residence in the Town of Otego and failed to make proper notifications of his address change, he was taken into custody and processed at the Sheriff’s Office, he was released with an appearance ticket and is set to appear in the Town of Morris Court at a later date.

During the latest winter snowstorm, members of the State Police in Troop C responded to a total of 76 weather-related events between Sunday and the early morning hours TODAY. In Chenango, Delaware and Otsego Counties, there were 5 Property Damage, 1 Personal Injury accident, 14 Disabled Vehicles & in Broome County, there were 13 Property Damage Accident, 2 Personal Injury Accidents & 9 Disabled Vehicles, there were no Fatal accidents reported.

Sidney Central School District announced that class will resume tomorrow at the upk-6 grade building, as the heat has been restored. Students were released early today at 10:30 due to the heat issue.

A.M. NEWS TUESDAY 1-27-26

Governor Kathy Hochul reminds New Yorkers to take advantage of the State’s recently expanded child tax credit, also known as the Empire State Child Credit. The refundable credit can either help offset taxes or be paid out directly to taxpayers as cash back in the form of a refund. Eligible families can now receive up to $1,000 per child under age four and $330 per qualifying child age 4 through 16 years old. Next year, the credit for children ages four through 16 will also increase to up to $500 per child and households with eligible children under age four will still be able to claim up to $1,000 per child. More information is available at tax.ny.gov.

A.M. NEWS FRIDAY 1-2-26

Otsego County Sheriff's office arrested 58 year old David Hand of Morris for 2nd degree Murder, Criminal Use of a Firearm, Tampering with Physical Evidence & Concealing a Corpse, for the murder of 71 year old Lynn Barton of Morris. On November 8th, the Sheriff’s Office was contacted by Barton's family, they had not had contact with Barton for more than 2 days. Deputies checked the residence, Barton was not present, the Investigation led to County Route 49 to interview Hand, who was the last known person to have contact with Mr. Barton, he directed deputies to an area behind a vacant building where Barton was deceased, his body was removed for an autopsy, the manner of death was a gunshot wound to the head. Hand was arraigned & was remanded to the Otsego County Jail.

A new state law now in effect is the "Click-to-Cancel" Subscription Rights law, These laws target the "subscription trap" by requiring businesses to make it as easy to leave a service as it was to join, the Companies must provide a precise, simple "click-to-cancel" mechanism for any online subscription, they will also be required to provide advanced notice of upcoming automatic renewals and clearly state any price changes before they take effect, preventing surprise charges on monthly statements.

New York's paid leave policies expand further this year, with a specific focus on maternal health takes full effect this January. Employees in New York are now entitled to an additional 20 hours of paid sick leave specifically for prenatal care, such as doctors' appointments and ultrasounds, it is separate from the state's existing paid family leave and general sick leave, ensuring that expecting parents don't have to exhaust their standard time off for routine pregnancy-related medical care.

State Forest Rangers & the Otsego County Sheriff's Office conducted a Wilderness Search On December 25 at 6:18 pm., the Sheriff’s Office called for assistance in the search for a patient who jumped out of an ambulance. The ambulance was transporting the 47-year-old unidentified Unadilla resident from Fox Hospital to Bassett Medical Center, Ambulance personnel pursued the patient but lost sight near Walnut and Linden Streets, they searched a wooded area, about 5 hours later, a civilian notified Rangers that someone was pounding on the front door of a house on Linden Street, a Deputy found the patient sitting at the bus stop shelter and drove the patient to the hospital.

A.M. NEWS TUESDAY 12-30-25

1 of the new laws going into effect on Thursday January 1st, is an effort to crack down on money laundering and "shell company" secrecy, the New York LLC Transparency Act stipulated that liability companies (LLC's) formed in or authorized to do business in New York must now disclose their "beneficial owners", or the actual people who own or control the company, to the Department of State. Existing companies have until the end of the year to file, while any new LLC's formed on or after January 1, 2026, January 1 have to submit the information within 30 days of formation.

2 American Red Cross Blood drives are being held in Cooperstown today, 1 from 12 pm. - 4 pm., at the Otsego County Office of Emergency Services, 140 County Highway 33W, another will be from 12 pm. - 5 pm., at the Clark Sports Center, appointments can be made by using the Red Cross Blood Donor App, visiting RedCrossBlood.org or calling 1-800-RED CROSS

P.M. NEWS WEDNESDAY 12-17-25

Otsego County Sheriff's Office arrested 38 year old Christopher Decker of Unadilla, following the report of a domestic dispute. Decker was charged with Assault, Criminal Obstruction of Breathing or Blood Circulation, Unlawful Imprisonment, Endangering the Welfare of a Child & Harassment. Decker was being held at the Otsego County Sheriff’s Office pending Arraignment, he is scheduled to appear in Unadilla Town Court at a later date.

Governor Kathy Hochul has signed a law banning online sweepstakes casinos in New York, which are sites that let people play casino-like games with virtual coins that could be traded for cash or prizes. The new law not only outlaws these online casino-like games, it also prohibits companies that support them, like payment processors and advertisers. Penalties can reach up to $100,000 per violation. New York now joins New Jersey, California, Connecticut, Montana, and Nevada, in the ban of those online activities.

A.M. NEWS Wednesday 12-17-25

The Broome County Sheriff’s Strategic Response Group utilized drone technology and its K9 unit to track down 2 fleeing suspects on foot following a high-speed vehicle pursuit in Binghamton, Kirkwood and Windsor. On December 11, deputies observed a pickup with a loud exhaust and an obstructed license plate in Binghamton, and attempted a routine traffic stop, the Pickup failed to comply, and led deputies on the pursuit, reaching speeds of 100miles per hour before the driver drove through a field before getting stuck, the 2 suspects fled on foot through the woods. K9 Raven and a drone tracked the suspects through the woods, they arrested 63 year old Tod Archibald of Starlight, Pennsylvania and 42 year old Ryan Dirig of Long Eddy, Officer seized cocaine, crack cocaine and fentanyl from Dirig, he was charged with Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance with Intent to Sell, Attempted Grand Larceny, Unlawful Fleeing a Police Officer in a Motor Vehicle, Reckless Endangerment, and a host of other charges, Archibald was charged with Obstruction of Governmental Administration.

The City of Oneonta is happy to announce the new 115-space public parking lot on Market Street at the site of the former parking garage, is now open to the public. The lot includes 11 spaces will be reserved for electric vehicle charging. The new stair and elevator tower in the northwest corner of the lot is also open, providing an accessible pedestrian connection to Water Street, Oneonta Public Transit began operating today out of the new Transit Center at 47 Market Street, adjacent to the new parking lot.

The Sidney Chamber of Commerce announced that the Official Santa's Mailbox will be ready to take letters to Santa from area children starting this Wednesday December 3rd. The Mailboxes will be set up at Roasted Coffee House on Main Street in Sidney and at Bob's Diner in Bainbridge. The Chamber reminds parent to make sure that there is a return address, Letters must be received by December 17th.

A.M. NEWS MONDAY 12-1-25

The National Weather Service announce that there is a Winter Storm Watch, with snow anticipated from late Monday night through Tuesday evening, local meteorologist Rich Townsend explains:

(Rich Townsend 12-1-25)

Total snow accumulations of 7 inches or more is possible in the Tri County Region. Travel could be difficult with hazardous conditions impacting the Tuesday morning and evening commutes.

The Otsego County Sheriff’s Office arrested 24 year old Austin Hitt of Schenevus for Arson, Burglary & Criminal Mischief, following an investigation into a reported residential fire in Schenevus. Hitt allegedly entered the residence unlawfully and intentionally set a fire inside, he was arrested and was held at the Otsego County Correctional Facility pending arraignment at Otsego County Central Arraignment and was later released.

Governor Hochul today announced that 8.2 million checks have now been mailed to eligible New Yorkers under the state’s first-ever Inflation Refund Check program. Over the last two months, inflation refund checks of up to $400 have been mailed to those who meet eligibility criteria. The main phase of large-scale check mailing is now complete, checks will continue to be mailed in small numbers in the weeks ahead as the State Tax Department determines that additional taxpayers are eligible. In the Southern Tier, there will be over 251,000 beneficiaries, receiving over $66.7 Million Dollars.

NAC Entertainment & Broadway in Binghamton announced that Tickets are now on sale for Riverdance, Clue, and The Music Man in 2026. Tickets can be purchased at BroadwayInBinghamton.com, Ticketmaster.com, and in person at the Arena Box Office.

The Otsego County Sheriff’s Office arrested 18 year old Quincy Speller of Oneonta following an investigation in to physical altercation between 2 students at the BOCES School in Milford. Preller is accused of sending threatening text messages to another student over the course of several days, he engaged in physical altercation with the other student on school grounds, causing physical injury to the student, Preller was charged with Assault and Aggravated Harrassment & faces court action shortly.

The Otsego County Sheriff’s Office arrested 42 year old Amy Jones of Oneonta for felony DWI, aggravated unlicensed Operation, open container in a vehicle along with other similar charges, following a traffic stop in the Town of Oneonta. Jones was intoxicated by alcohol & was also found to have a revoked driver’s license in New York State for 2 previous DWI convictions, She was processed and turned over to Otsego County Corrections pending Centralized Arraignment.

The Delaware County Business Alliance is now accepting applications for the 2026 Leaderful Delaware Emerging Leaders Program, designed for business and community leaders who are interested in becoming more engaged in shaping the region's future. The 5-session program dates are February 12, March 12, April 9, May 14, and June 11, and will be conducted by former Alliance President Ray Pucci. More information is available at 1-607-746-2281.

A.M. NEWS MONDAY 11-24-25

Delaware County District Attorney Shawn Smith announced the indictment of 18 year old James Tinebra of Plainview, A Delaware County Grand Jury indicted Tinebra for Burglary & Grand Larceny for stealing a State Police Vehicle from a repair shop in Davenport on November 5th at about 3:45 AM. Tinebra was located later in the day by the Schodack Police Department in Rensselaer County, where he is also facing separate charges.

The Otsego County Office of Emergency Services reported a fatal structure Fire Saturday Morning at 125 Lake Street in Cooperstown. Cooperstown Fire Department, with mutual Aid from surrounding communities entered the structure and found an 89 year old female, who was pronounced deceased at the scene. the cause of the fire remains under investigation, the identity of the deceased has not been released pending family notification.

State Police & local Law Enforcement agencies responded today to a host of accidents related to the slippery roads in all of the local counties. Police agencies are reminding motorists to drive slowly now that wintry conditions have returned to the region.

The annual Shop With a Cop event is on December 14th this year in Otsego County, where members from the Sheriff's Office, Oneonta Police Department, Cooperstown Police Department, and NYS University Police at Oneonta will be Christmas Shopping with area students. Area schools will be selecting a student representative to participate, Kids will be given a gift card and paired with a member of local law enforcement to shop for Christmas presents for themselves and/or their family. for those wishing to donate, contact your local law enforcement agency or send a check to the Otsego County Deputy Sheriff's PBA, 172 County Highway 33W, Cooperstown, NY 13326.

The Village of Sidney announced that the Village Clerks office is closed Today in observance of Veterans Day. The office will reopen Wednesday. Also, Due to unforeseen circumstances Village brush pickup has been extended 1 more week, until this Friday.

A.M. NEWS TUESDAY 11-11-25

The Otsego County Sheriff’s announces the arrest of 31 year old Marcus Borggreen & 26 year old Destiny Grant both of Mt. Upton, following a trespass complaint in the Town of Westford. Deputies were dispatched to a residence for a report of 2 subjects, they were located inside the basement of the residence, and were detained and were in possession of MDMA, narcotic drugs, and several weapons. the pair are facing numerous drug & weapons charges & were transported to the Sheriff’s Office and were turned over to the Jail to be held for Arraignment.

Governor Kathy Hochul today announced that New York State's first-ever inflation refund checks up to $400 are now being sent to 8.2 million households statewide. Starting today, checks will be mailed directly to eligible New Yorkers, with deliveries to continue throughout October and November. There is no need to apply

Mohawk Valley Gives, the annual one-day on-line fundraiser, was a big success for Otsego County Non-Profit Organizations this year, according to Executive Director Jeff Katz of the Community Foundation of Otsego County:

(Jeff Katz 9-29-25)

Katz said that the Community Foundation of Otsego County grants $300 to each nonprofit that participates in the annual fundraiser and offers prizes for a variety of accomplishments during Mohawk Valley Gives, including greatest number of new donors, greatest number of donors, most successful environmental organization and others. More information is available by email: contact@cfotsego.org, or by calling 607-286-3750.

Broadway In Binghamton announced that single tickets for TINA – The Tina Turner Musical are now on sale. The musical will make its Binghamton debut October 30 & 31 at the Forum Theatre. Tickets can be purchased at BroadwayInBinghamton.com, Ticketmaster.com, or in person at the Arena Box Office. For more information visit BroadwayInBinghamton.com.

P.M. NEWS WEDNESDAY 9-24-25

The State DEC announced a drought warning was issued in 12 counties in the Adirondack and Southern Tier regions and a drought watch was expanded to include 6 counties in the Susquehanna region. The counties added to the drought watch today are Broome, Chenango, Cortland, Otsego, Madison, and Tioga. A drought watch or warning is now in effect for the entire state except for New York City and Westchester County. more information is available at dec.ny.gov.

P.M. NEWS WEDNESDAY 8-27-25

Governor Hochul announced the Environmental Facilities Corporation surpassed $3.4 billion in executed financial assistance agreements for 328 water infrastructure projects across the State, A 55% in funding over the previous year. The projects improve water quality, safeguard public health and the environment and contribute an estimated 30,000 jobs. The application period for the next round of Grants is now open through September 12, Applications and information about the grants can be found at efc.ny.gov.

Public Meeting #1 for the Otsego Lake Watershed Protection Plan will be held Today, from 6:00 to 8:00 pm. at Glimmerglass State Park in the Lakeview Pavilion, at County Road 31, Cooperstown. The public meeting will provide an overview of the planning process and the desired outcome of the Watershed Protection Plan. A community survey will be launched during the public meeting and will be available for at least one month to gather additional input from the community. The Department of State provided funding to develop a Plan that identifies water quality threats and recommends local actions to safeguard the resource. Water quality in Otsego Lake is changing because of climate change, invasive species, and harmful inputs to the lake, the plan will identify causes of the degrading water quality and define specific actions to protect the lake and watershed.

Governor Kathy Hochul announced that Homeowners, renters and business owners are now eligible to apply for U.S. Small Business Administration low-interest loans to aid in recovery from the Storm Damage on June 22, in Madison, Chenango and Otsego Counties locally. Homeowners can receive up to $500,000 to repair their primary residence, Homeowners and renters can get up to $100,000 to repair or replace damaged or destroyed personal property, Businesses and non-profits can get up to $2,000,000 for the replacement of real property, inventories, machinery, equipment, for more information, or to apply online at sba.gov, or call the SBA's Customer Service Center at (800) 659-2955.

2 American Red Cross Blood Drives are scheduled in Oneonta, today from 1 pm. - 5 pm., Oneonta Elks Lodge 1312, 86 Chestnut Street, another on Saturday from 10 am. - 3 pm., at the Southside Mall - Oneonta YMCA, 5006 NY-23, Schedule a time to give now by visiting RedCrossBlood.org, calling 1-800-RED CROSS or by using the Red Cross Blood Donor App.

P.M. NEWS Tuesday 8-19-25

The State Department of Civil Service announced that the application period is now open for the State’s entry-level law enforcement civil service exam. The exam is for applicants seeking a position at the DEC, the Office of State Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation and the State University of New York. Qualified candidates can apply online until 11:59 pm. on September 17th to take the exam, scheduled to be held in November. Applications and more information is available at cs.ny.gov/police.

Otsego County, the Mohawk Valley Economic Development District and Vernonburg Group, will host a public community update meeting on Thursday, August 28th from 6:00 PM to 7:30 PM at the Morris Fire Hall, the meeting will be held in person and live-streamed online, with a recording available afterward on the project website: www.otsegocountyny.gov/broadband.php. The community session is part of Otsego County’s Broadband Technical Assistance Project, aimed at accessing high-speed internet access for residents, businesses, and institutions across the region.

U.S. Senator Chuck Schumer met with Oneonta Job Corps students and staff Thursday, Schumer explained that the Trump administration is targeting Job Corps centers for closure & completely eliminate funding for the program. Schumer said the Senate Appropriations Committee has passed a bipartisan bill out of committee that protects funding for Job Corps for next year, and now is calling on the House to follow suit. The Oneonta Job Corps employs 120 people in Oneonta.

The Otsego County Hazardous Waste Collection days will be held This Morning in Unadilla & Saturday in Cooperstown, Spokesman Kyle King explains:

(Kyle King 8-15-25)

More Information is available at otsegocountyny.gov or at 607-547-4226.

31 year old Dustin Cole of Rotterdam pleaded guilty in Delaware County Court to Attempted Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance, Possession with Intent to Sell, and was sentenced to 4 years in state prison and 2 years of post-release supervision. On February 28, 2025, Cole was stopped by a State Trooper in Stamford, Cole failed Field Sobriety Tests. Police found Cocaine, a digital scale and several empty glassine envelopes, plus $2,141.00 in cash, Cole was sentenced to four years of incarceration and two years of post-release supervision, he was also ordered to forfeit the $2,141.00 to the District Attorney’s office. This money will now be used to fund additional drug investigations.

Otsego County Sheriff's Office arrested 34 year old Keith Echiverri Jr., of Hawaii for DWI, Refusal to take breath test, Speed not Reasonable and Prudent, Moving From a Lane Unsafely, Failure to Keep Right and Open container of Alcohol in Motor Vehicle, following an investigation into a motor vehicle accident in the Town of Otsego. Echiverri struck a guard rail and utility pole on State Highway 80, he was found be intoxicated by alcohol and arrested, processed and released with Appearance Tickets and is set to appear in court at a later date.

Otsego County Sheriff's Office arrested 48 year old Paula Carbonara of Worcester, for Burglary, Criminal Trespass, Criminal Contempt, and Harassment, following a burglary in progress complaint in the Town of Worcester. Deputies were dispatched to a residence after receiving reports that a female subject was trying to gain entry, deputies found that the female had made entry into the residence but fled on foot, Carbonara was located and taken into custody& was held for Arraignment.

Otsego County Sheriff's Office has responded to the scene of a car crashing into a tree in the Village of Milford at about 1:00 PM today on State Route 28. The Otsego County Sheriff's Office, Otsego County EMS and the Milford Fire Department were currently at the scene, initial reports suggest that the car left the roadway and struck a tree. Traffic may be delayed in that area for clean up & accident reconstruction work.

The American Red Cross will have a Blood Drive today from 9 am. - 2 pm., at the Downsville Fire Department, 15166 State Highway 30, Schedule a time to give now by visiting RedCrossBlood.org, calling 1-800-RED CROSS or by using the Red Cross Blood Donor App.

P.M. NEWS TUESDAY 6-10-25

State Police are targeting speeding and aggressive drivers during a special week-long traffic enforcement initiative now underway through this Sunday, as Speeding is a contributing factor in nearly 1/3rd of all fatal crashes in New York State. Last year, Troopers issued 22,476 total traffic tickets, including 11,175 for speeding and 592 for violations of the Move Over law, During this “Speed Week” enforcement period, Troopers will be using both marked State Police vehicles and unmarked vehicles as part of the operation.

The Otsego County Conservation Association is accepting nominations for its 2025 Conservationist of the Year Award, which honors outstanding contributions to environmental protection, preservation, and education in Otsego County. The award recognizes an individual, group, organization, or business , the award will be presented during OCCA's Annual Dinner on August 24 at Creekside Station in Hartwick. The deadline for nominations is July 18.

A.M. NEWS TUESDAY 6-10-25

The State Senate approved a bill Monday that would allow terminally ill people die on their own terms, it would allow a person with an incurable illness to be prescribed life-ending drugs if he or she requests the medication and gets approval from 2 physicians, the bill goes to Governor Hochul for approval.

Otsego County Sheriff's Office arrested 53 year old Robert Smith of Sidney, for Aggravated Unlicensed Operation of a motor vehicle, Driving While Ability Impaired by Alcohol, and Operating a Motor Vehicle against Interlock Restrictions, and several other violations following a Traffic Stop in the Town of Unadilla. Smith was found to have a revoked driver’s license in New York State, he was processed and released & will appear in court at a later date.

The Sidney Central School District announced the 13th annual Summer Enrichment & Summer Sports Camps, which will run from July 7th to July 31st, Monday through Thursday, The link to register will be found on our school district website. Registration is now open, and slots are limited, & will continue until filled or closed June 6th, more information is available at 607-561-7701.

DCMO BOCES announced that the Regional Spelling Bee winner, 13 year old Margot Fieni from Oneonta High School, is competing at the National Spelling Bee competition in National Harbor Maryland. Fieni successfully completed the spelling and the vocabulary preliminary competition round at the 2025 National Spelling Bee Competition today, she now moves to the Round Three Test that determines which competitors advance to the quarterfinals level.

Otsego County Sheriff's Office arrested 47 year old Eric Bormann of Laurens, on 3 counts of Endangering the Welfare of a Child, Criminal Possession of a Firearm and Harassment. Deputies responded to a domestic dispute in the Town of Laurens, Bormann was also found to be in possession of a semi-automatic handgun without a State Pistol Permit, he was issued an Appearance Ticket and is scheduled to appear in the Laurens Town Court at a later date.

NBT Bancorp Inc. announced that it completed the merger of Evans Bancorp, Inc. last week, followed by a core systems conversion over the weekend. The Merger has extended the NBT Bank branch network into the Western Region of New York with the addition of 14 banking offices, NBT Bank now has 175 branches across 7 states.

A.M. NEWS Thursday 5-8-25

The Otsego County Sheriff's Office announced an Additional Charge has been filed against 42 year old Christopher DeMarco of Unadilla. Investigators located additional child sexual abuse material on a cell phone that had been found in DeMarco's possession, he was processed for Possession of a Sexual Performance by a Child & was issued an Appearance Ticket returnable to the Town of Middlefield Court at a later date. DeMarco was arrested in March on a variety of charges including Unlawful Surveillance, Sex Offender Failure to Notify Change of Address & Endangering the Welfare of a Child.