WCDO Radio News

P.M. NEWS TUESDAY 10-8-24

23 year old Dakota Mann of Walton pleaded guilty in Delaware County Court Monday to 3rd degree Assault & Criminal Contempt. On May 17, 2024, Delaware County Sheriff’s Deputies were dispatched to a residence in Walton for an ongoing domestic, where the caller & 1 other person claimed to have been assaulted by Mann, who violated an order of protection. Mann was remanded to the Delaware County Correctional Facility. On July 1, 2024, while incarcerated, Mann assaulted & injured a fellow inmate, Mann was additionally charged with 2nd degree Assault. Mann faces sentencing on December 9th to 1 1/2 to 3 years in state prison for Criminal Contempt, and 1 year for Assault.

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The Sidney Veterans' Memorial Park Annual Bowling Fundraiser is coming up at East Main Lanes in Sidney in November, Park President Doug Barnard explains:

(Doug Barnard 10-8-24)

The Bowling Fundraiser will be on the weekends of November 2nd & 9th, more information about the Sidney Veterans' Memorial Park is available at SVMPA.org.

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Helios Care will have their annual fundraising concert at Foothills Performing Arts Center in Oneonta on Saturday October 19th, spokesperson Kathryn Dailey

explains:

(Kathryn Dailey 10-8-24)

Tickets & more information about the Helios Care Programs covering Otsego, Delaware & Schoharie Counties can be found at helioscare.org.

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Governor Kathy Hochul today announced that 221 State and local government workers have been deployed to North Carolina, South Carolina and Georgia to help with response and recovery efforts following Hurricane Helene. Team members include staff from the National Guard, Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services, Department of Transportation, DEC, State Police, Department of Agriculture and Markets, among many others. State Agencies are also gearing up deployment top Florida following the expected devastation from as Hurricane Milton heads towards Florida.

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The Delaware County Chamber of Commerce announced that Drivers are able to reduce the cost of their auto insurance coverage by taking a Defensive Driving Course offered at the Chamber Business Center in Delhi on Tuesday, October 22 from 10:00 am to 4:00 pm in the Meeting Room at 5 ½ Main Street in Delhi. The course fee is $35 and attendance is limited to 20 people. Advance registration is required and may be completed by calling Sherry Stewart at 607.538.9632.

A.M. NEWS Tuesday 10-8-24

Otsego County Sheriff's Office arrested 35 year old Richie Rodriguez of Bronx for Criminal Possession of Stimulant, Criminal Possession of Controlled Substance, Criminal Use of Drug Paraphernalia, Aggravated Unlicensed Operation and a host of traffic tickets following an investigation after a traffic stop on State Highway 7 in the Town of Otego. Rodriguez was processed and held at the Otsego County Correctional Facility pending Arraignment.

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A man and a woman were arrested in an assault on former Governor David Paterson and his stepson, Friday Night in New York City. Paterson & Anthony Sliwa were treated for minor injuries, 2 adults, a 12 year old & a 13 year old were all charged with gang assault and assault.

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Broome County Sheriff’s Office Road Patrol observed motorcycle without a license plate on I-81, a traffic Stop was initiated, the operator failed to comply onto Colesville Road to State Route 17, the motorcycle eventually had a mechanical failure and came to a stop. 29 year old Trae Salisbury of Binghamton had an unsecured dog on his lap throughout the pursuit, deputies secured the dog and placed Salisbury under arrest for Unlawful Fleeing a Police Officer in a Motor Vehicle, Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance, Obstruction of Governmental Administration, Carrying an Animal in a Cruel Manner & Numerous traffic violations. Salisbury was processed at the Broome County Sheriff’s Office and issued appearance tickets returnable to the Town of Kirkwood Court. The dog was transported back to its owner.

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Delaware County Public Health will hold a free Rabies Vaccination Clinic for dogs, cats, and ferrets today from 5:30PM to 7:30PM, at the Deposit Highway Garage. More information about rabies is available at (607) 832-5200.

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P.M. NEWS MONDAY 8-14-23

The Afton Arts & Crafts Festival will be held this weekend, August 19th & 20th in Downtown Afton, Spokesperson Judy Hinman told WCDO News about the event:

(Judy Hinman 8-14-23)

Hinman said that the bands will be performing each day after the event, more information is available at the Afton Arts and Crafts Festival Facebook page.

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Sidney Police are investigating a round of thefts of cash & items from vehicles, most recently around Willow Street Friday. Sidney Police Chief Eric Oliver comments:

(Chief Oliver 8-14-23)

Chief Oliver said that there could be an arrest relating to vehicle thefts shortly, he also said that people should not leave any valuables in their vehicles in plain sight.

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NBT Bancorp announced that it completed the merger of Salisbury Bancorp, with and into NBT on Friday. The Merger added 13 banking offices to the NBT franchise in complementary markets, including northwestern Connecticut, the Hudson Valley region of New York and southwestern Massachusetts. NBT Bank now has 153 banking offices across its 7-state footprint.

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SUNY Oneonta will welcome more than 5,000 students for the fall semester, including more than 1,600 new students. New students will move in Wednesday, Aug. 23, Thursday, Aug. 24, and Friday, Aug. 25, followed by returning students over the weekend on Aug. 26 and 27. Classes will begin Monday, Aug. 28.

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The Bainbridge Chamber of Commerce will hold their next General Membership Meeting Tuesday Morning in Bainbridge. The meeting will begin at 7:30 AM in the back of Bob's Diner.

A.M. NEWS MONDAY 8-14-23

Chenango County Sheriff's Office received on August 8th for a call of shots fired at a residence along State Highway 220 in the Town of Smithville, 49 year old April Chandler of Endicott was charged with Criminal Possession of a Weapon, Reckless Endangerment and Menacing. Chandler was processed and arraigned & was released & was ordered to return to the Town of Smithville Court at a later date. An order of protection has been issued for the victim. The investigation is ongoing, and more charges may be filed.

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U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand was at Brewery Ommegang in Cooperstown Sunday, as she talked with local leaders & members of the New York State Craft Brewers Association regarding the upcoming Federal Farm Bill. The craft beer industry currently has an economic impact of $3.4 billion with almost 20,000 full time jobs in New York.

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P.M. NEWS TUESDAY 7-11-23

Delaware County District Attorney's Office announced that 41 year old Mary Cutting of Sidney appeared in Delaware County Court Monday & was arraigned on a sealed indictment, which was unsealed & accuses Cutting of selling fentanyl in the Village of Sidney on January 19th, another Count accuses her of selling methamphetamine in the Village of Sidney on January 25th. Cutting pleaded not guilty, she was released from custody, and faces court action on July 31st. Cutting could face up to 9 years in State Prison if convicted.

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Commerce Chenango will host the 1st "Taste of Chenango" event on July 29 in Norwich, Commerce Chenango CEO Sal Testani visited the WCDO Morning Show today & explained what they are planning:

(Sal Testani 7-11-23)

Testani said that musical acts Jason Wicks & The Nate Gross band will perform, the event will be from 1:00 o 7:00 PM on July 29th, more information is available at commercechenango.com or by calling 334-1400, those interested in becoming a vendor can call 226-2211.

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37 year old Leroy Poole was sentenced to 4 years in State Prison and 2 years of post-release supervision in Broome County Court. Poole pleaded guilty to Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance for possessing fentanyl with intent to sell, The Broome County Special Investigations Unit executed a search warrant at Poole's residence and seized cocaine, methamphetamines, a scale, packaging materials & fentanyl, he was on probation from a 2021 felony narcotics possession charge.

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

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The Otsego County Department Of Health will have a free rabies clinic today for dogs, cats & ferrets at the Edmeston Town Barn from 6:00 to 8:00 PM, more information is available at 607-547-4230.

A.M. NEWS Tuesday 7-11-23

The Norwich Police Department is investigating a homicide. Around 6:30 pm. on Sunday, officers responded to 89 North Broad St. for a welfare check and missing person complaint. During an investigation, police found the body of 44-year-old Alisa Ann Martin in the residence. Norwich Police are working closely with the State Police and Chenango County Sheriff’s Office. Anyone with information about this case is asked to contact Norwich Police at 607-336-8477.

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Delaware County Sheriffs Deputies received a Trespassing complaint in the Town of Davenport. The investigation revealed that 73 year old George Sydlar had called 911 3 times on July 6th and more than 20 times prior to report similar incidents which were all determined to be unfounded. Deputies arrested Sydlar for falsely reporting an incident, he was released on an appearance ticket to the Town of Davenport court at a later date.

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Oneonta Mayor Mark Drnek announced that a visit to Fox Hospital over the weekend resulted in the finding of a blood clot in his lungs. Drnek said on his Twitter page that he will have a reduced schedule due to the pulmonary Embolism, but still plans on attending regularly scheduled City meetings.

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NBT Bancorp announced that it has received regulatory approval to complete the proposed merger of Salisbury Bancorp. The Office of the Comptroller of the Currency and the Connecticut State Banking Department both approved the Merger, and NBT received an application waiver from the Federal Reserve Bank of New York. The Merger is expected to close on August 11, a weekend systems conversion will follow with locations of Salisbury Bank opening as NBT Bank offices on August 14.

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An American Red Cross Blood Drive is scheduled in Walton from 1:30 pm to 6:00 PM today at the Pines Brook Church. To make an appointment, download the American Red Cross Blood Donor App, visit RedCrossBlood.org, call 1-800-RED CROSS

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P.M. NEWS FRIDAY 4-14-23

Fire Fighters from Franklin, Sidney Center & Wells Bridge responded to a Franklin barn & brush fire. Thursday afternoon at about 3:45 PM. Firefighters were at the scene until about 8:30 PM, no injuries were reported.

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The Otsego County Office of Emergency Services reported that firefighters are continuing to fight a fire of brush & trees along the Otsego & Schoharie County line, the 2nd operational period was conducted yesterday, Fire fighters & EMS providers from Otsego, Delaware and Schoharie County expect to wrap up the the fires today, about 237 acres were affected, with 90% containment reported Thursday Afternoon.

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The Town Of Guilford will hold a special Board meeting Tuesday at 6:00 PM at the Town Hall on Marble Road. The meeting will be informational featuring representatives from Invenergy & Northland Power, Town of Guilford residents are urged to attend the meeting.

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Binghamton Police arrested 28 year old Christopher Frederick for 2nd degree attempted murder, criminal possession of a weapon and first-degree criminal use of a firearm, in connection with a shooting that occurred on Binghamton's North Side on February 25th, following the report of several shots being fired, and where a 22 year old man was injured with a gunshot wound to the chest. Frederick was arrested without incident in Endwell, he was arraigned in Binghamton City Court and sent to Broome County Jail.

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The Chenango Historical Society is looking for volunteers to help out at the museum in Norwich through the summer hours into early October, Historical Society Executive Director Jessica Moquin told WCDO News who they are looking for:

(Jessica Moquin 4-14-23)

Moquin said that those interested in volunteering should visit chenangohistorical.org/get-involved

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NBT Bancorp Announced that the shareholders of Salisbury Bancorp, voted to approve the proposed merger of Salisbury with NBT. The proposal was announced last December, Salisbury has 14 banking offices in northwestern Connecticut, the Hudson Valley region of New York, and southwestern Massachusetts.

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The Delaware County District Attorney's Office announced that 50 year old Brett Conklin of Walton was convicted for DWI In Tompkins Town Court. Conklin was arrested last November after a 1 vehicle crash, where registered a BAC of .14. Conklin was ordered to pay $900 in fees and fines, he was sentenced to a 1 year conditional discharge, he must install an ignition interlock device on any vehicle he owns & he must attend a victims impact panel & an impaired Drivers program.

A.M. NEWS FRIDAY 4-14-23

3 individuals are facing 16 felony charges after being apprehended by Broome County Sheriff’s Deputies following the theft of a vehicle and trailer in the Town of Binghamton. On Tuesday, Deputies responded to the reported theft of a truck & trailer containing a zero turn lawn mower on Mill Street in the Town of Binghamton, the truck’s owner had security cameras, & a tracking device, where the vehicle was located at Phillips Way in the Town of Binghamton, the 3 suspects, fled on foot into a creek. Deputies arrested 30 year old Heather Brewer of Endicott, 38 year old Joseph Schultz & 35 year old Ryan White of Endicott on a variety of charges including Grand Larceny, Criminal Possession of stolen Property, & Conspiracy, Schultze was found to have outstanding warrants for Grand Larceny, resisting arrest, identity theft and drug charges in the State of Pennsylvania and violating parole in Albany.

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The twice Annual "Coffee with the Chiefs" event will be held in Norwich on Saturday April 15th from 9:00 to 11:00 AM at the Norwich McDonald's, local residents will have the chance to talk to new Norwich Police Chief Reuben Roach and City of Norwich Fire Department Chief Jan Papelino.

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The Sidney Community Cultural Center will have a Comedy Night Saturday Night & another event Sunday afternoon, Spokesperson Amy Williams explains:

(Amy Williams 4-14-23)

Tickets for the Comedy night are available at the door or at cccsidneyart.booktix.com

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P.M. NEWS TUESDAY 1-24-23

Wintry weather will be reaching our region Wednesday afternoon, local Meteorologist Rich Townsend told WCDO News what he expects:

(Townsend 1-24-23)

WCDO will have out complete weather forecast following the newscast.

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The Broome County Sheriff’s Office Warrants Division arrested 23 year old Haven Strong of Binghamton, he is accused of knowingly entering the Broome County Sheriff’s Correctional Facility with a quantity of a controlled substance. Strong was charged with 1 count each of Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance & Promoting Prison Contraband in the 1st Degree. Strong was processed for arrest and remains in the custody of the Broome County Sheriff’s Correctional Facility.

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The State Department of Labor today released preliminary local area unemployment rates for December 2022. The State's seasonally adjusted unemployment held constant at 4.3% in December, Locally, Chenango County had 3% Unemployment, Delaware County 3.3% and Otsego County 3.2%.

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The State Department of Public Service and the DPS Consumer Advocate, will hold a virtual public forum on Tuesday, January 31, and in-person public forums, including one on Wednesday, February 8th In the Binghamton State Office Building at 44 Hawley Street from 1:00 to 3:00 PM and 6:00 to 8:00 PM to receive public comments regarding NYSEG. The forums have been set up after multiple complaints of spikes in billing by NYSEG & sister Company Rochester gas & Electric last year, and the inability to reach the companies’ customer service representatives by telephone without substantial delay. Public comments can also be made at the DPS’ toll-free line at 1-800-335-2120.

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New Yorkers enrolled in SNAP will receive the maximum allowable level of food benefits for January, including those already at the maximum level of benefits, will receive a supplemental allotment this month. All households will receive a supplement of at least $95.

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Delaware County Sheriff’s Deputies responded Friday to a 911 call for a 1 car motor vehicle accident on County Highway 44 in the Town of Sidney. The driver was identified as Amber Astrologo, who had a suspended driver’s license due to insurance not in effect. Deputies subsequently arrested Astrologo for Aggravated Unlicensed Operator and Speed not Reasonable and Prudent. Astrologo was then directed to appear in the Town of Sidney Court at a later date to answer for said charges.

A.M. NEWS TUESDAY 1-24-23

The New York State Department of Health’s Weekly Influenza Surveillance Report shows that the number of flu cases declined 50 percent from 14,656 to 7,373 for the week ending January 14th, the virus remains widespread across the State for the 15th consecutive week. The Department also announced two additional pediatric deaths in New York, bringing the total to eight so far this season. The Department's report, shows a total of 300,907 influenza cases reported to date in New York.

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State Senate and Assembly Republican Conferences unveiled a legislative package to Create a Safer New York, State Senator Peter Oberacker supports the package of bills:

(Oberacker 1-24-23)

The package calls for Rolling back bail, Increasing penalties for habitual repeat offenders, Increasing penalties for crimes committed with stolen firearms, and mandatory consecutive sentencing for crimes involving illegal firearms, and amending Raise the Age to ensure 16- and 17-year-olds charged with certain gun or gang-related crimes are prosecuted as adults.

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NBT Bancorp reported Net income for the year ended December 31, 2022, was $152.0 million, compared to $154.9 million in the prior year. In the fourth quarter, the Company incurred merger expenses of $1.0 million related to the pending acquisition of Salisbury Bancorp, Inc.

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P.M. NEWS TUESDAY 1-17-23

Oneonta Police Department responded On the morning of Saturday, January 14th, at 8:58 a.m., for a report of a person down in Neahwa Park. Officers responded with members of the Oneonta Fire Department and located a 35-year-old male who was unresponsive and later declared deceased by Otsego County Coroner Terry Knapp. The male was identified, and his family notified of his passing. A death investigation was completed by the Oneonta Police Detective division and revealed no indication of foul play. Oneonta Police are not releasing the name of the deceased.

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The Raymond Corporation of Greene will be holding a Job Fair this Saturday at their facility, Executive Vice President Steve Van Nostrand told WCDO News what positions they will be looking to fill:

(Steve Van Nostrand 1-17-23)

The Raymond Job Fair will be Saturday from 10:00 am to 2:00 pm, at 22 South Canal Street in Greene.

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The Norwich City School District reported that on Early Friday morning, cafeteria staff in the Gibson school were following protocol, washing bananas to serve our students, employees discovered a scorpion in the bananas. It was quickly contained. Cafeteria and custodial staff followed all protocols and no staff or students were harmed in the discovery. In addition, High School Zoology students were able to capitalize on the discovery and feed it crickets and study it under a glow light. Norwich school Officials believe that the scorpion traveled to Norwich from Guatemala, in the banana box.

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State Police arrested 24 year old Patrick Combs of Roxbury for Grand Larceny, Criminal Possession of Cannabis and Operating a Motor Vehicle while Under the Influence of Drugs. State Police were called to State Highway 30 in the town of Roxbury Sunday for a report of a larceny by a store employee. A preliminary investigation determined that Combs stole $2000 from a safe and then left the store in his vehicle. Troopers located Combs and when approaching his vehicle could smell an odor of cannabis. While conducting an inventory of the vehicle, Troopers located a large amount of cannabis, a weight scale, drug paraphernalia and alcohol. The investigation is ongoing.

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Congressman Marc Molinaro announced he has been selected to serve on the House Committee on Agriculture and the House Committee on Transportation & Infrastructure for the 118th Congress. Congressman Molinaro represents New York’s 19th Congressional District

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The State Department of Health announced that the XBB.1.5. variant is now the most dominant strain in New York, accounting for more than 50 percent of COVID-19 infections statewide, the strain is more transmissible than other circulating variants, though there is not yet clear evidence of significant changes to virulence or severity of disease. Currently over 3400 New Yorkers are hospitalized with COVID. The Health Department's weekly flu surveillance report for the week ending January 7, shows influenza remaining widespread throughout the state for a fourteenth consecutive week, with a total of 293,541 positive cases across all 62 counties reported to date. Confirmed cases statewide dropped 36 percent, while overall hospitalizations were down 34 percent from the previous week with 1621 hospitalized.

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The State DOT reported that a tractor trailer jack-knifed on I-88 at about 11:30 this morning in the westbound between Exit 12 Otego and Exit 11. both lanes were blocked & traffic was detoured to state Route 7. DOT officials and other emergency personnel were on scene. WCDO will have additional details as they become available.

A.M. NEWS TUESDAY 1-17-23

State Police will step up speed enforcement efforts along the New York portion of U.S. Highway 20 today, as part of a 1 day project, targeted at reducing speed related crashes on non-interstate highways. The program was created by the Iowa State Patrol, U.S. Highway 20 spans 3,365 miles coast to coast. New York State has jurisdiction over 372 miles of the highway, other participating states include Iowa, Montana, Wyoming, Nebraska, Illinois, Indiana, Ohio and Pennsylvania.

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State Police located 58-year-old Jan Dager of Salisbury in Herkimer County, deceased in a wooded area about half a mile from his home. Dager was reported missing from his home January 14th, The investigation is on-going.

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Village of Sidney announced that the water service disruption will be starting around 9:00 AM Tuesday, water system customers north of the Susquehanna River along Route 8 and the surrounding areas will experience water service disruptions, until about 4:00 PM. This service disruption is associated with the Village of Sidney’s work to install new water mains under the Unadilla and Susquehanna Rivers.

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The Sidney Police Department in 2022 handled a total of 3,050 calls for service. 1,791 were criminal in nature, while 1,259 were non-criminal in nature. Sidney Police responded to 85 were false business alarms, 100 were animal complaints, 196 were EMS or Fire related, there were 61 were mental health incidents. Sidney Police had 445 arrests consisting of 181 Violations, 204 Misdemeanors, 60 Felonies, 319 Traffic tickets were issued there were 389 Warnings, Sidney Police responded to 95 Motor vehicle accidents & 92 Parking tickets were issued.

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The Bainbridge Chamber of Commerce will hold their next meeting this morning at 7:30 am. the meeting will be held at the back of Bob's Diner. All are welcome to attend.

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P.M. NEWS MONDAY 1-16-23

The State Police Commercial Vehicle Enforcement Units are participating in a national effort to call attention to human trafficking. Members are educating Commercial Drivers about human trafficking, and providing a card that contains the number for the National Human Trafficking Hot-line, which is 888-373-7888.

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Broome County Sheriff’s Deputies responded last Tuesday to a domestic incident at the Knights Inn in the Town of Union and arrested 60 year old Samuel Stukes of Endicott. Stukes was in violation of an order of protection and was wanted by the Binghamton Police Department. Deputies heard a disturbance coming from the rear of the motel building at the same address, 43 year old Keith Johnson of Endicott was found engaging in a physical fight a 15-year-old child, he resisted arrest, tried to fight with deputies and was tased and subdued. Johnson was charged with 5 counts of Endangering the Welfare of a Child, & 1 count each of Obstruction, Resisting Arrest & Harassment. Both Stukes and Johnson were taken into custody.

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The Delaware County Chamber of Commerce is holding a Legislative Leadership Forum with area lawmakers, on Wednesday April 12th at the Old Schoolhouse Inn & Restaurant in Downsville. The event will begin at 9:00 AM, Chamber members can register at delawarecounty.org/events.

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The Getthere Mobility Program is looking for Volunteer Drivers in Delaware County. Drivers will bring County Residents to Appointments, Shopping, Drivers are reimbursed at 62.5 cents a mile as well as $100 for training. More information is available at gettherescny.org, or by calling 833-373-4040. Getthere is a program of the Rural Health Network of South Central New York.

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State Police are searching for 58 year old Jan Dager of Salisbury in Herkimer County. Dager has been missing since January 10th, he was last seen wearing black sweatpants and a black T-shirt, with no jacket, he is 5'8" & about 225 pounds with white hair, he left in an unknown direction, he did not have a cell phone with him. Anyone with information should call 315-366-6000.

A.M. NEWS MONDAY 1-16-23

The City of Oneonta Police Department is investigating the discovery of a deceased individual in Neahwa Park Saturday. No other details have been released, pending the results of an autopsy.

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U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand announced her plans to seek re-election to another 6 year term in the U.S. Senate. Gillibrand has served in the Senate since 2009, prior to that she served in the House of Representatives serving much of the WCDO listening area.

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An American Red Cross Blood Drive is being held in Oneonta today at the Quality Inn on State Route 23. The Blood Drive runs from 1:00 to 6:00 PM, Appointments can be made with the Red Cross App, calling 1-800 RED CROSS or going online to redcrossblood.org.

P.M. NEWS FRIDAY 12-9-22

There could be some snowfall locally Sunday with a small amount of Accumulation possible, according to Meteorologist Rich Townsend:

(Rich Townsend 12-9-22)

The full WCDO Forecast will follow this newscast.

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Broome County District Attorney Mike Korchack announced that 48 year old Lance Johnson was sentenced to 70 years in Prison in Broome County Court Thursday. Johnson was found guilty for the murder of of his girlfriend Alison Salisbury, who was killed august 7th of 2020.

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The State Department of Transportation announced that construction is complete on a $16 million project to replace the bridge carrying Front Street over Interstate 81 at Exit 5 in the Town of Dickinson. The project consisted of roundabouts placed at 2 intersections, along Route 11 and the upgrade of another intersection with new traffic signals.

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$55.4 million in financial assistance will be available for water infrastructure improvement projects throughout the state. Locally, the City of Oneonta will receive $6.7 Million Dollars from interest-free financing for upgrades to the city's wastewater treatment plant.

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Governor Kathy Hochul will deliver the State of The State address on Tuesday, January 10 at 1:00 PM in Albany. The address will be delivered in the State Assembly Chamber to a joint session of the legislature.

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The Binghamton Black Bears announced that the long standing Binghamton Hockey tradition, the Teddy Bear Toss, will be part of Saturday night’s game against the Delaware Thunder at the Arena. Fans are invited to bring teddy bears, or other stuffed animals, to the game and throw them on the ice after the Black Bears’ first goal, the bears will be picked up and donated to the Crime Victims Assistance Center, where they will be given to local children as gifts this Christmas. The game begins at 7 pm. at the Visions Veterans Memorial Arena, tickets are available at the box office, by calling 607-722-7367, or at ticketmaster.com.

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The Bainbridge Chamber of Commerce & 4 Towns Forward announced that they have a variety of activities today, tomorrow & Sunday, Chamber Spokesperson June White explains:

(June White 12-9-22)

More information about the Chamber if available at the Bainbridge Chamber of Commerce Facebook page, or by calling 607-967-8700.

A.M. NEWS FRIDAY 12-9-22

Chenango Arts Council's Christmas Show is Saturday Night at the Martin W. Kappel Theater, Director Alecia O'Neill explains:

(Alecia O'Neill 12-9-22)

More information about this show & future shows & exhibits can be obtained by calling 607-336-2787 or going to ChenangoArts.org.

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The Sidney Center Improvement Group will host the 15th Annual "Holidays in The Hamlet" event Saturday, group spokesman Mike Sellitti explains:

(Mike Sellitti 12-9-22)

The event begins at 5:00 PM Saturday, more information is available on the Sidney Center Improvement Facebook Page.

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The Mid-York Concert Band is presenting a Holiday Concert this Sunday at the Norwich high School Auditorium. Doors will open at 1:30 PM and the Concert starts at 2 PM, Director Doug Ernst explains:

(Doug Ernst 12-9-22)

The concert is free with a request for free-will offerings, more information is available at 607-263-2618.

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The Annual Giveaway for Operation Merry Christmas will be held tomorrow. The giveaway to families enrolled in the program will be from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM at the AO Fox Hospital Tri Town Campus on Pearl Street in Sidney.

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P.M. NEWS TUESDAY 12-6-22

State Police responded to a crash Monday involving a pedestrian in town of Sherburne. Police reported that a vehicle was traveling west on State Highway 80 when a pedestrian who was standing in the roadway and wearing dark clothing was struck. The pedestrian has been identified as 30 year old Megan Mikalunas of North Norwich, she was pronounced deceased on scene. The driver of the vehicle, 57 year old Robert Allen of Oneida stopped and flagged down another vehicle to call 911. Sherburne EMS and State Police responded to the scene, the investigation is on-going.

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State Police responded to a 2-vehicle crash Monday in the town of Columbus where 1 person was pronounced deceased on scene. A preliminary investigation revealed that a tractor trailer and a van were both traveling south on State Route 8. The driver of the tractor trailer was making a right turn when the van struck the rear of the tractor trailer. A female passenger in the van, from Rome, was killed, the male driver from Lee Center, was airlifted to Upstate Medical Hospital in Syracuse. The unidentified driver of the tractor trailer was not injured. The crash remains under investigation.

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The Bandera Family & Community Alliance announced Free Christmas Dinners again this year for Binghamton & Norwich residents, and this year they are adding a free Christmas Dinner for the Oneonta Community, Bill Bandera told WCDO News about their plans this Christmas:

(Bill Bandera 12-6-22)

Bandera the meals will be served at the American Legion Halls in each community, he said that they are looking for volunteers, More information for Volunteers sign ups can be found at banderachristmas.com, those who need a meal delivered can call 211 until December 22nd.

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NBT Bancorp and Salisbury Bancorp, Inc. of Connecticut announced that they have entered into a agreement where Salisbury will merge with and into NBT. Chief Accounting Officer Annette Burns of NBT Bancorp told WCDO News what the merger means:

(Annette Burns 12-6-22)

The merger is expected to close in the second quarter of 2023 following the expected approval by the shareholders and required regulatory approvals.

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Leadership Otsego announced they are accepting applications for their program to establish future leaders in the County. The 6 month program meets 1 day a month, Classes will primarily be held in Oneonta, applications will be accepted through January 13th, more information is available at 607-432-4500 extension 2.

A.M. NEWS TUESDAY 12-6-22

The Broome County District Attorney's Office announced that former Broome County DA Stephen Cornwell pleaded guilty in State Supreme Court to Grand Larceny, he was sentenced to 3 year conditional discharge, was ordered to pay a fine of $5,000 and will have to give up his license to practice law. Former Administrative assistant to Cornwell, James Worhach pleaded guilty to Criminal Possession of Stolen property for illegally possessing criminal case files belonging to the office of the Broome County District Attorney's Office, he was sentenced to 1 year conditional discharge, he is still facing additional charges.

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In the month of November, members from the State Police at Troop "C" removed 61 impaired drivers off the roadways. 1 of those impaired drivers also had a child under the age of 15 in the vehicle with them, 14 of the drivers were more than double the legal limit, 5 drivers had been previously convicted of DWI in the last 10 years, 11 of those drivers were under the influence of drugs

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The SUNY Board of Trustees appointed John King, Jr., as the 15th SUNY Chancellor Monday. Chancellor King served as U.S. Secretary of Education under President Barack Obama.

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A Federal Judge has thrown out bribery and fraud charges against former Lieutenant Governor Brian Benjamin. Benjamin resigned last April, he still faces records falsification charges.

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Firefighters from Deposit, Windsor, Hancock, Harpursville & West Windsor responded at about 3:00 AM this morning to a fire at the New England Wood Pellet factory at 1580 Airport Road in Deposit. Firefighters are expected to be at the facility throughout the morning hours, more details are expected to be released later today.

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P.M. NEWS FRIDAY 7-8-22

State Police responded Thursday to a motorcycle crash on State Highway 8 in the town of Masonville. 54 year old Joseph Beers of Sidney was traveling south on State Highway 8 when he left the roadway and struck a guide-rail. Beers was transported to AO Fox Hospital's Tri-Town Campus in Sidney, where he was pronounced dead.

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The Gus Macker tournament gets underway today in Norwich, with early registration, with hundreds of teams participating in the annual tournament, which returns after a 2 year break due to the pandemic. Jamey Mullen is one of the organizers & he told WCDO News that this a family event:

(Jamey Mullen 7-8-22)

Mullen said that the schedule of events can be found at Macker.com & then go to the Norwich page.

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The U.S. Department of Agriculture announced that Smithfield Packaged Meats of Iowa, has recalled about 185,610 pounds of ready-to-eat bacon topping products. The bacon is being recalled because it may be contaminated with "extraneous materials, specifically metal," Consumers who have purchased these products are to return them to their place of purchase, or throw them out.

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In the 1st 6 months of mobile sports wagering, New York State has far surpassed every other state, as well as the Division of the Budget's revenue projections. So far the State has generated more than $302 million in tax revenue from mobile sports wagering since January 8th, New York has collected more in mobile sports wagering revenue in six months than the total sports wagering revenue than any other state has generated over several years.

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Delaware County Sheriff Craig DuMond announced the graduation of Corporal Jeffrey Clark and his partner "K-9 Edge" from the K-9 Academy. After more than 3 months of training, the class graduated 10 handlers and their K-9 partners as certified in patrol techniques. Corporal Clark and Deputy K-9 Edge are now certified for patrol, with specific training in obedience, tracking individuals, locating discarded or secreted items, criminal apprehension and handler protection.  Corporal Clark and K9 Edge will return to the Academy this fall and further their training and certification in explosives detection.

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STATE POLICE at Troop C announced that 1 person was arrested during an Underage Drinking Initiative in Delaware County on Wednesday. Alcohol was sold to a minor at Smiley’s Convenience Store located at West Main Street, Sidney, an appearance ticket was issued to the clerk who sold alcohol to the minor. Several other businesses in Sidney, Walton, Franklin & Delhi were in compliance.

A.M. NEWS FRIDAY 7-8-22

The Broome County District Attorney Mike Korchak announced that 47 year old Lance Johnson of Binghamton was found guilty on all counts in Broome County Court Thursday, for the fatal shooting of Alison Salisbury of Binghamton and for the shooting of Shannon Brooks of Conklin, on August 7, 2020. Johnson will be sentenced on October 7th.

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Blood Supplies are still low, according to the American Red Cross, another blood donation opportunity will be held Saturday from 8:00 AM to 1:00 PM at the Main Street Baptist Church Briggs Hall, 333 Main Street in Delhi. To schedule an appointment to donate, download the Red Cross Blood Donor App, visit RedCrossBlood.org or call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767).

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This Sunday, the Sidney Rotary Club & The Cullman Child Development Center will team up for the 2nd of their Free Summer Series, with "The Buzz About Honey Bees”, Rotary Club Spokesman Larry Halbert explains:

(Larry Halbert 7-8-22)

The event will be held from 1:00 to 3:00 PM Sunday at The Sidney American Legion on Union Street.

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The Greater Oneonta Historical Society will hold their next Walking Tour Saturday, as Oneonta native Dr. John Nader leads the group on a tour of Oneonta’s 6th Ward. The tour will meet at 2:00 PM at the Boys and Girls Club on River Street, where parking will be available. This tour is by donation and reservations are not required.

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