WCDO Radio News

P.M. NEWS MONDAY 5-12-25

Otsego County Sheriff's Office arrested 28 year old Ryan Oltjenbruns of Unadilla for 2nd 7 3rd Degree Assault, Harassment & Endangering the Welfare of a Child, following a domestic incident in the Town of Unadilla. Oltjenbruns allegedly engaged in a physical domestic dispute with a family member in the presence of a minor, by striking the victim in the face, causing serious injury. The victim was transported to Bassett Hospital and later to Albany Medical Center for additional medical treatment, Oltjenbruns was taken in to custody and processed at the Otsego County Sheriff’s Office, he was arraigned & was released on his own recognizance and issued an order of protection was issued on behalf of the the victim.

Terrell Heyward of Binghamton, pleaded guilty to 2nd degree Murder in Broome County Court and he faces a sentence of up to life in State Prison. On January 11th, Binghamton Police Department responded to 21 Exchange Street, for a report of shots fired, Sarah Hauer was pronounced dead at the scene. Heyward faces Sentencing on August 6th in Broome County Court.

Delaware County Public Health, the New York National Guard and New York State Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services, is hosting a Citizen Preparedness Training Event on Wednesday, June 11th, Isabella Ziolkowski of Delaware County Public Health explains:

(Isabella Ziolkowski 5-12-25)

This event is free and open to the public. Each family that attends will receive a free preparedness kit. Registration is required to attend, call Delaware County Public Health at 607-832-5200. The event will be held from 6:00PM – 7:30PM at the New Hope Community Church, 45 Stockton Avenue, Walton.

A.M. NEWS Monday 5-12-25

54 year old Jason Burress of Bainbridge appeared in Delaware County Court last week & was sentenced to 6 months in jail. Sidney Police initiated a traffic stop in Sidney on July 11, 2024, Burress was believed to be impaired by drugs, lab test showed that Burress was impaired by methamphetamine. Burress pleaded guilty in April to Driving While Ability Impaired by Drugs, he will serve his term at the Delaware County Correctional Facility.

Oneida County Sheriff's Deputy Aaron Alshaman has been charged with 4 counts of attempted murder and 1 count of Arson, he allegedly set a home on fire on April 9th, while his infant child, the child's mother and her parents were inside. All occupants escaped without injury, an Oneida County Grand Jury has indicted Alshaman on the charges, he faces arraignment on the Grand Jury Indictment shortly.

Chenango County Department of Public Works announced the closure of the bridge on North Chenango Street over Birdsall Brook in Greene will be closed on May 12th, and will remain closed for 3 to 5 months. Local residents will be allowed to get to and from their homes. More information is available at 337-1710.

Delaware County Public Health is scheduling Rabies vaccination clinics, following the recent report of the first rabid animal of the year in Masonville last week. The next clinic will be held in Sidney on May 5, from 5:30PM-7:30PM, at the Sidney Fire Hall at 74 River Street. More information about rabies can be found at delawarecountypublichealth.com

A Citizen Preparedness Training Event will be held on Monday, April 28th in Margaretville at the Town Hall, hosted by Delaware County Public Health, with representatives from the New York National Guard & The State Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services. Isabella Ziolkowski of Delaware County Public Health explains:

(Isabella Ziolkowski 4-11-24)

This event is free and open to the public, they can register by calling 607-832-5200, Ziolkowski said that they are planning to do additional training events in Walton & Sidney as soon as possible.

New York State residents are reminded to learn about the different types of driver’s licenses, available through the Department of Motor Vehicles. A REAL ID will be required for domestic air travel and access to certain federal buildings starting May 7th, an Enhanced Driver's License serves as a REAL ID compliant document that allows for land and sea travel to Canada, Mexico, and Caribbean without the need for a passport. A Standard License is still available but can’t be used for domestic air travel or entry into certain federal buildings after May 7th. For more information, visit your local DMV office or visit DMV.NY.gov.

The Chenango County Historical Society will host an unveiling of the recently refurbished “special edition” marker at Rogers Environmental Education Center at 10:45 am. on April 25. the “Game Farm” plaque is situated roadside along Route 80 in the town of Sherburne. The unveiling is being held on National Historic Marker Day to honor the New York State Department of Transportation sign crew who refurbished the sign, for more information, go to ChenangoHistorical.org.

Wildfires have been reported on Long island, as well as another in the Adirondacks, the State's annual Burn Ban will start on March 16th & will run through Mid May. The DEC reports that the Open burning of debris is the single-largest cause of spring wildfires in New York State. When temperatures warm and the past fall's debris and leaves dry out, wildfires can start and spread easily, further fueled by winds and a lack of green vegetation.

The State Department of Corrections and Community Supervision announced an agreement between the department and the union representing thousands of corrections officers who have been on strike state-wide for 20 days. Staff were expected to return to work today, The details of the agreement were not disclosed.

Former Major League Manager Buck Showalter, who managed both the Yankees & the Mets, was announced as the keynote speaker at the 10th Greater Binghamton Sports Hall of Fame Induction Class. Showalter was a four-time Manager of the Year in MLB, The Hall of Fame ceremony is set for April 28 at the Double Tree Hotel in Binghamton.

A.M. NEWS MONDAY 3-10-25

Attorney General Letitia James and a coalition of 7 other attorneys general filed a lawsuit Friday against the U.S. Department of Education for unlawfully canceling teacher pipeline grant programs that were authorized by Congress. The Teacher Quality Partnership and Supporting Effective Educator Development grant programs, which creates a new teacher pipeline to fill positions in hard-to-staff schools in rural and urban areas, helping hundreds of teachers-in-training to graduate and fill positions in schools experiencing teacher shortages.

State Police at Deposit responded Thursday to a fatal crash in the 4100 block of State Route 26 in the town of Nanticoke. Troopers, Maine Ambulance and Glen Aubrey Fire Department found that a Ford pick-up that had crashed, with the driver pinned underneath the tire. It was determined that the driver was already deceased by the time the first responders arrived. The driver is identified as 22 year old Sethe Menta of Lisle, Members of the Bureau of Criminal Investigation and the Collision Reconstruction Unit also responded to the scene.

Walton Fire Department responded Sunday afternoon to a structure fire in the Town of Walton. The call came in as a chimney fire with the homeowner concerned that it had extended into the wall behind the wood stove as there was black smoke and the sound of fire within the walls. At 4:45 pm the homeowner reported seeing flames upstairs and was unsure if it was coming from walls or chimney. Sidney Center and Trout Creek departments were moved from their station to the scene and Franklin Fire Dept was requested for a tanker. By 5:17 the fire was reported under control with units checking for extension and doing overhaul work. No injuries were reported.

The Norwich Police Department, the Norwich City School District and the Vestal Police Department have teamed up to bring interested Norwich High School Students to the Youth Police Academy in Vestal this summer, Norwich Police Department School Resource Officer Nicholas Moody explains:

(Nicholas Moody 2-7-25)

Officer Moody said that the Norwich City School District will provide daily transportation for the students to attend this training. Students interested should sen an email to nmooney@norwichpd.org and ask for an application.

Another Red Cross Blood Drive is being held today at the Franklin Fire Department from 12:30 PM TO 5:30PM. Appointments can be made at redcrossblood.org, by calling 1-800-redcross or using the Blood Donor App.

The Community Cultural Center in Sidney will have their next Comedy Night tonight with 2 comedians scheduled to perform, according to spokesperson Amy Williams:

(AMY WILLIAMS 2-7-25)

Tickets are available at the door, more information is available at the Community Cultural Center Facebook page.

P.M. NEWS WEDNESDAY 5-15-24

Sidney Police & EMS responded at about 6:10 this morning to the report of a Norfolk Southern Train & Pedestrian Accident at West Road. 34 year old Nikita Burns of Sidney was pronounced deceased at the scene, the investigation into the incident is continuing by the Sidney Police Department.

There is still time in the month of May to drop off metal to Waste Recovery Enterprises in Sidney, which in turns helps out the Delaware Valley Humane Society, according to Director Erin Insinga:

(Erin Insinga 5-15-24)

The fundraiser runs through May 31st, over the past few years it has raised about $8,000 for the Humane Society.

U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand announced her push to provide a boost in federal funding for the FEMA Assistance to Firefighters Grant Program in the Federal 2025

appropriations bill, follow recent cuts to the program:

(Gillibrand 5-15-24)

Senator Gillibrand said that the Grant provides funding for local fire departments to purchase equipment and emergency vehicles and to address staffing shortages.

A.M. NEWS Wednesday 5-15-24

The 214th New York State Police Academy Graduation, was held today this morning at the Empire State Plaza Convention Center in Albany. 228 new Troopers completed the Basic School of the New York State Police Academy, 26 of the new Troopers are being assigned to Troop C in Sidney.

An American Red Cross Blood Drive will be held in Laurens from 1:00 to 6:00 PM at the Laurens Fire Department, 34 Main Street. Appointments can be made at RedCrossBlood.org, calling 1-800-RED CROSS or by using the Red Cross Blood Donor App.

Broome County Sheriff’s Office was awarded a grant totaling $834,118 from the New York State Division of Criminal Justice Services. The majority of the funding will be utilized to purchase a county-wide License Plate Reader network, to help in identifying and locating wanted criminals and fugitives entering the community, as well as helping locate stolen vehicles and vehicles involved in ongoing investigations. Some of the funding will also go toward purchasing a new Digital Forensic Computer and provide tablet and smartboard training technology for the Broome County Law Enforcement Academy.

The Southern Tier Chapter of the American Red Cross will be hosting its 15th Annual Real Heroes event this morning at the Binghamton DoubleTree Hotel at 8:30 AM. Participating sponsors and donors will be handing out awards to recipient “heroes”, ranging from a 9-year-old who safely evacuated other members of her family during a rapidly progressing home fire, to a high school student and school resource officer who saved the student’s mom when she showed signs of a stroke, to a Firefighter who, while on his way to his own retirement party, coordinated the rescue of occupants of a car submerged in water, Awards will be presented in 12 categories.

The Tri Town Theater will be performing "The Music Man" at the Sidney High School Stage next week, on October 20th & 21st at 7:30 PM & Sunday October 22nd at 2:00 PM, performers George Wells & Jack Doyle visited the WCDO Morning show today to talk about the production:

(George Wells Jack Doyle 10-11-23)

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

Broome County Sheriff Fred Akshar and Undersheriff Sam Davis welcomed K9 Raven to the Sheriff's Office today. K9 Raven and her partner and handler, Deputy Thomas Holden have undergone extensive training at Cedar Creek Kennels in Illinois over the past few weeks and are set to conclude their training this month. Raven is a female German Shepherd trained in tracking, protection, drug detection and other skills needed for law enforcement K-9 units.

Helios Care in Oneonta announced that they will have a fundraising Country Music Show on Saturday October 21st at the Foothills Performing Arts Center in Oneonta. 8 acts are signed up to perform, tickets can be purchased at helioscare.org.

October is Fire Prevention Month and Departments around the state will have a variety of events scheduled this week. The Sidney Fire Department will have an “Open House” tonight, Sidney Fire Chief John Gilmore explains:

(Chief Gilmore 10-11-23)

Chief Gilmore said that the Open House will beheld from 6:00 to 8:00 PM tonight.

Delaware County Public Health announced that a raccoon tested positive for rabies in the town of Delhi. This is the first animal in Delaware County to test positive for rabies in 2023, 1 dog was bitten by a the rabid raccoon, there were no human exposures. According to the owner of the exposed dog, the raccoon was not acting sick or appeared to be rabid. Vaccination records of the dog indicated the animal was not up to date on its rabies vaccinations & will have a 6-month quarantine following State Department of Health guidelines. Public Health recommends that pet owners take advantage of any of the free remaining rabies clinics in Delaware County, in Sidney on May 8th from 5:30PM to 7:30PM at the Sidney Fire Hall: 74 River Street, or in Hancock on May 22nd from 5:30 to 7:30PM at the Hancock Town Hall, at 661 West Main Street.

Les Gregory of Sidney will turn 100 years old on Sunday, there will be Celebration for Gregory on Saturday at the Sidney Fire Station, Mr. Gregory told WCDO News of how he made it to 100 yeas of age & how he is humbled by all the attention he has received:

(Les Gregory 3-31-23)

Area resident Larry Halbert has known Les Gregory since he was a boy & he told WCDO News about Mr. Gregory:

(Larry Halbert 3-31-23)

Halbert said that Gregory served in the Army Air Core, which turned into the Air force, over 28 years, he operated his own insurance business, volunteered in the Sidney & other Fire Departments for over 70 years, he created the Delaware County Arson Task Force and is a long time Sidney Rotary member. Halbert said that every Sidney household will get a copy of the Walton Reporter this week, which spotlights Les Gregory's life. WCDO will air the full interview with Les Gregory following the 6:00 PM News tonight, and again tomorrow immediately following the WCDO Birthday Club at 9:30 AM.

The Annual Town of Sidney Republican Dinner will be held Saturday at 6:00 PM at Club 55 in Sidney. Prominent Republicans attending include 19th District Congressman Marc Molinaro, State Senator Peter Oberacker as well as local officials, more information is available at 563-1993.

The 9th Annual Youth For Christ "Joker 3.6 Mile Run And 1.1 Mile Walk" will be held Saturday, starting at 10:30 AM at 16 Watson Street in Unadilla, more information or registration available at 607-432-0594, money raised will go for the Teen center in Unadilla.

Volunteer fire departments across New York will open their doors on Saturday, April 23rd, and Sunday, April 24th as part of the 13th annual RecruitNY weekend.  The Unadilla Fire Department will participate on both days as they need to add to their ranks, according to Spokesman Jeremy Johnson:

(Jeremy Johnson 4-7-22)

Individuals looking to find out if their fire department is participating in RecruitNY can visit?recruitny.org/participation-area/. For specific information, contact your local volunteer fire department via a non-emergency phone number or its website.

CDO Workforce in Norwich is offering free in person training to support job seekers efforts in getting employment. the 4 day "Job Jump Start" training series will begin Monday April 11th through Thursday April 14th at the Norwich CDO Workforce facility at 1 O'Hara Drive, to register for the training, call 334-2201.

Sidney Police investigated the theft of tools and construction equipment from a local business last month. Surveillance cameras helped police in identifying the person responsible, & an arrest warrant was issued for 37 year old Peter Puglisi of Afton. On Monday, Sidney Police located Puglisi, he was taken into custody and charged with Petty Larceny, he was arraigned in Village of Sidney Court & he was released to appear back in court at a later date.

The Otsego County Department of Health will be offering an Additional Booster Dose Vaccination Clinic at the Otsego Meadows Complex on April 18th. A Registration link can be found on the Otsego County Department of Health webpage. Those eligible include anyone age 12 and older who are moderately or severely immunocompromised, they may choose to receive a second booster dose at least 4 months after the first booster dose, also all adults 50 and older regardless of health status may choose to receive a 2nd booster dose, also 4 months after the first booster dose. More information is available at (607) 547-4230.

Several Area Fire Departments responded to a house fire on County Route 35 in the Hamlet of Sidney Center this afternoon. The house was completely destroyed, WCDO will have more information as it becomes available.

A.M. NEWS THURSDAY 4-7-22

Delaware County Sheriff's Deputies, were dispatched Sunday to a Domestic dispute in the Town of Delhi. 28-year-old Michael Stein of Delhi allegedly engaged another person in a physical domestic dispute, and unlawfully imprisoned the victim in his residence. Deputies charged Stein with Unlawful Imprisonment, Menacing, and Reckless Endangerment, he was released on appearance tickets for Town of Delhi Court on a later date.

4 Towns Forward announced that Community Garage & Yard Sales will be held on Saturday, April 23rd from 9:00 am - 4:00 pm. Organizer Teri Schunk told WCDO that the deadline to get on the map that will be available to all on the day of the event, is tomorrow:

(Teri Schunk 4-7-22)

Residents in Afton, Bainbridge, Sidney & Unadilla can participate, participation in the event is FREE.

P.M. NEWS THURSDAY 3-24-22

The State Department of Labor reported that the number of private sector jobs in the Sate increased over the month by 39,800, or 0.5%, to 7,888,300 in February. The State's unemployment rate decreased from 5.3% to 4.9% in February.

CDO Workforce in Norwich is offering free in-person training to support job seekers to successfully apply for jobs. The 4-day “Jobs Jump-Start” training series will run from Monday, April 11th to Thursday, April 14th. Class times: 11:00am to 12:30pm. Training will be at the Norwich CDO Workforce Center at 1 O’Hara Drive, Norwich, To register call (607) 334-2201.

227 new Troopers were honored for their perseverance and dedication in completing the 210th session of the Basic School of the New York State Police Academy during graduation exercises at the Empire State Plaza in Albany, New York. Over 50 of the new troopers will be assigned to Troop C in Sidney.

The city of Oneonta announced plans to close West Street between Chestnut and Center streets for 5 months, for a construction project, starting Monday. The project calls for the replacement of water mains, sewer mains, manholes, catch basins and fire hydrants as well as related infrastructure. Detours will be posted, Construction work will be done between 7 am. and 3:30 pm. on week days and is expected to be completed in August prior to the return of students to SUNY Oneonta & Hartwick College.

The American Red Cross has resumed testing all blood, platelet and plasma donations for COVID-19 antibodies. Plasma from routine donations that have high levels of COVID-19 antibodies may be used as convalescent plasma to help meet the needs of COVID-19 patients with weakened immune systems. At the same time, the Red Cross blood supply remains vulnerable, and individuals are urged to schedule a blood or platelet donation. To make an appointment, use the Red Cross Blood Donor App, visit RedCrossBlood.org or call 1-800-RED CROSS. The next blood drive locally will be in Sidney on March 29 from 2:00 to 6:00 PM at the Sidney Elks Lodge, 104 River Street.

P.M. NEWS FRIDAY 1-7-22

Oneonta Fire Department responded to a fire at the Motel 88 on Chestnut Street Thursday afternoon.  The fire was started in an unoccupied room, 2 adjacent rooms suffered damage, it was knocked down in less than an hour, no injuries were reported, and the cause of the fire is under investigation.

Binghamton Police are investigation the shooting of an 18 year old Binghamton High School Male Student, near the High School Thursday morning at about 11:15.  The victim was taken to an area hospital, the School district implemented lockdowns at all buildings, Binghamton Police arrested a 17 year old suspect for attempted murder & criminal use of a fire arm, the investigation is ongoing.

New York’s Independent Redistricting Commission met January 3 to approve new maps that would shape those districts for the next 10 years, but ended the meeting with two separate proposals.  The Commission sent its 2 plans to lawmakers for consideration during the 2022 session.

A.M. NEWS FRIDAY 1-7-22

State Police released more details about Wednesday arrest of 29 year old Anthony Masi of Sidney, who was wanted for 1st degree Assault in Oneonta on December 30 & also charged for Criminal Possession of Stolen Property,  Sidney Police Department spotted Masi in a stolen vehicle and attempted to stop him, he failed to comply and fled from Sidney Police and Delaware County Sheriff’s Deputies on State Route 8 in the town of Masonville, Troopers attempted to stop Masi, who again failed to comply, he was stopped on State Highway 17 in Hancock and was taken into custody.  Masi was processed on the Stolen Property charge, was arraigned & was released & ordered to appear in Hancock Village Court at a later date; he was then turned over to troopers, was arraigned on the Assault charge & was remanded to the Otsego County Jail on $50,000 bail or $500,000 bond.

The State Health Department & the Governor's Office announced that the Omicron Variant of COVID 19 continues to spread quickly.  Over 377,000 were tested Wednesday, with 84,202 positives, for a 22.3% positivity rate.  Patient Hospitalization increased by 317 to 11,184, Patients in ICU bed were up to just over 1,400 with 695 on ventilators and 130 New deaths reported by healthcare facilities from COVID.

SUNY Oneonta will host one of the state’s 10 new COVID-19 community testing sites,  which opens today,  in the training room of the college’s new Emergency Services Building, located at the lower end of campus, and is open to anyone in the community who is experiencing mild to moderate COVID symptoms. Appointments are required and must be scheduled in advance. Testing, which is saliva-based, is provided at no cost to individuals. The site will be open from 8:30 am to noon on Mondays, Tuesdays and Fridays. The Oneonta site is scheduled to operate through the end of February.  Appointments for testing at the Oneonta site can be scheduled at bit.ly/covid-test-oneonta.

OTSEGO COUNTY OFFICE OF EMERGENCY SERVICES announced that KN95 masks will be made available, FREE for distribution to the public, beginning today at the American Legion COVID test site in the Village of Milford, located at 86 West Main Street in Milford, as well as the SUNY Oneonta COVID test site.  An additional distribution site is being established at the Richfield Springs Fire Department in the coming week.

Delaware County is 1 of 6 counties in New York State chosen to receive support from the State Health Department to conduct COVID vaccination clinics. Personnel from The State and the National Guard will support the county operated clinics beginning today in Sidney at the Sidney Elks Lodge on River Street from 11:00 AM to 7:00 PM, as well as on Saturday & January 28th and 29th. The second clinic will be in Stamford at the Catskill Veterans Outreach Center, from 11AM-7PM, on January 14th, 15th & February 4th and 5th. The third location at the Hancock Central School Bus Garage, from 11AM-7PM on January 21st, 22nd, February 11th and 12th. More Information is available at 607-832-5200.

Catholic Charities of Sidney announced another Community partnership Mass Food Distribution to be held January 26th at 11:00 AM at the River Street Fire Station in Sidney, Spokesperson Jordan Fradenburgh explains:

(Jordan Fradenburgh 1-6-22)

Other organizations assisting with the Food Distribution include the Regional Food Bank, United Way, Salvation Army & the Village of Sidney.

Firefighters from Oneonta, Franklin & other surrounding communities responded this afternoon to a fire at the Motel 88 at 340 Chestnut Street in Oneonta. The fire was under control in a little more than an hour, the cause of the fire is under investigation.

A.M. NEWS Thursday 1-6-22

State Police took 29 year old Anthony Masi into custody Wednesday afternoon on an arrest warrant for 1st Degree Assault. The warrant stems from a serious assault that occurred in Oneonta after Masi allegedly attacked a victim with a machete-type knife at the Budget Inn on State Route 23 on December 30th, the investigation is continuing.

The Village of Sidney is seeking applications for the our Animal Control Officer position, Applications can be picked up at the Village of Sidney Clerk's Office, Monday - Friday 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM, more information is available at 607-561-2323.

About $11.5 million dollars in federal funding will be distributed to fire departments across the State. The funding will be used to provide protective gear, training, and supplies to emergency personnel across more than ninety fire departments. This federal funding was administered through the U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s Assistance to Firefighters Grant, Locally, in this round of funding, the Milford Fire department will receive over $40,000 in funding, and Richfield Springs will receive over $48,000.

NAC Entertainment announced the return of their "Test Drive Your Seat" event at the Forum Theater in Binghamton next week, Spokesperson Tina Niles explains:

(Tina Niles)

More information about the line-up of shows can be located at nacentertainment.com/broadway-in-Binghamton

The Sidney Rotary Club & the Cullman Child Development Center will hold a "Family of Heroes" Event for area Children on Sunday September 12th at the Sidney Veteran's Memorial Park, spokesman Larry Halbert explains:

(Larry Halbert 9-2-21)

Halbert said that the Event was scheduled in July & was postponed due to the weather, the event on the 12th runs from 1:00 to 3:00 PM.

The State Health Department announced COVID 19 numbers for Tuesday.  Over 146,000 tests were Reported, with over 4600 testing positive, or 3.15% of all tested.  Patient Hospitalization continue to climb, to 2,285, ICU Patients went up slightly to 493; the number on ventilators is back up to 250.

Otsego County Department of Health reported 33 new cases of COVID-19 on Thursday, the highest number of cases reported since March. There have been 2 deaths this week from COVID-19. The County reported 93 active cases, with 4 hospitalized, the Delta variant is suspected in more than 95% of the current cases. Otsego County remains at a HIGH level of community transmission, the CDC & Otsego County Department of Health recommend everyone wear a mask indoors in public. They urge those who have not been vaccinated to do so as quickly as possible, sites can be found at otsegocounty.com or covid19vaccine.health.ny.gov.

The “Share The Bounty” program will return in Sidney, after the program was forced to shut down due to the COVID 19 pandemic last year, Spokesperson Kate Porter explains:

(Kate Porter 8-27-21)

The first "Share The Bounty" Dinner will be on Thursday September 23rd, at the Sacred Heart Church Parish Center on Liberty Street in Sidney.

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

P.M. NEWS TUESDAY 6-29-21

The State Health Department reported today that almost 72% of adult New Yorkers have received at least 1 COVID 19 Vaccine & 65.1% have completed their vaccine series.   The Statewide 7 day rolling average for Positive COVID tests is .39%; The Southern Tier Counties is slightly higher at .42%.

Oneonta area Motorists are reminded that NYSEG and DDS Companies will be digging at Woodside Avenue & East Street today, through Friday.  Additional information is available by calling the Department of Public Service at 432-2100.

The Unadilla Valley Central School District will host a 5K run/walk at 9:00 a.m. Saturday, July 17, for 14 year old Cooper Hine, who is a Unadilla Valley 8th Grader, who was seriously injured in an ATV crash in New Berlin recently.  Another fundraising chicken barbecue and Chinese auction will follow at the South New Berlin Fire Department on July 17th.  Hine is hospitalized at the Upstate Medical center in Syracuse.

Chenango County Public Health announced that due to the continued decline in COVID 19 cases, they will release updates once a week.  Currently Chenango County reported 7 active cases, 14 quarantines & no hospitalizations; they have had a total of 35212 cases, 3331 recoveries, & 77 deaths since the pandemic started 15 months ago.

A.M. NEWS TUESDAY 6-29-21

State Police responded Saturday to an ATV crash in the town of Davenport.   35-year-old Raina Andrews of Davenport was operating the vehicle, when it exited the roadway, struck a ditch and she was ejected.   Andrews was transported by LifeNet to Upstate Medical Center in Syracuse with serious injuries.  The investigation is on-going.

The American Red Cross continues to experience a severe blood shortage, Donors of all blood types; especially type O are urged to make an appointment by using the Red Cross Blood Donor App, visiting RedCrossBlood.org, calling 1-800-RED CROSS.  Blood drives this week include Today in Sidney at the Fire training Center on River Street from 12:00 to 5:00 PM, Today in Oneonta from 1:00 to 6:00 PM at the Foothills Performing Arts Center on market Street & tomorrow in Morris from 12:00 to 5:00 PM at the Episcopal Church, at 162 Main Street.

Sidney Village Crews will be turning the water off this afternoon along West Main Street from Sunset to Pearl Street.  The water will be shut off at around 2:30 PM for a couple of hours, as work is conducted on the water main near the Sidney High School.

Sidney Rotary Pancake Breakfast will be held tomorrow from 7:00 am to 12:00 pm, at the River Street Fire Station in Sidney.  Indoor & Outdoor seating is available, drive through options are also available.

The State Health Department announced the latest Coronavirus Numbers for Monday.  The number of Hospitalizations state wide is 891, there were 13 deaths Monday from the virus; bring the state death toll to 24,855.  There were 524 new positive cases diagnosed Monday, or about 1% of those tested, the state number since early March is 393,454.

The Broome County Department of Health announced today that they are up to 680 cases of the Coronavirus, they report 51 deaths, 572 recoveries, 265 are being monitored by the Heath Department, they have conducted over 19,500 tests.

The New York State Department of Health announced that they have led a study on multisystem inflammatory syndrome in children associated with COVID-19.  The study describes 99 cases of the syndrome and concludes the emergence of the condition in the State followed widespread COVID-19 transmission and often is associated with cardiac dysfunction in children up to the age of 21.   Of the 99 patients 36 had a pre-existing condition, the most common being obesity, Of the 99, there were two fatalities, the syndrome is compared to Kawasaki disease, and more studies will be conducted.

Former Delaware County Social Services Commissioner Dana Scuderi-Hunter has filed a lawsuit against the Delaware County Board of Supervisors, and Chairperson Tina Mole for wrongful dismissal.  Scuderi-Hunter was suspended in early 2019, & was fired at the end of the suspension.

The Sidney Central School District will receive over $52,000 in grant money from the U.S. Department of Agriculture, for a farm to school program.  The district will expand their efforts to procure locally sourced produce & food products from area farms, for school lunches & breakfast programs.

The Village of Unadilla announced that the Village playground will be open from 9:00 AM-12:00 PM and 1:00 PM-5:00 PM. The playground equipment will be sanitized every day between 8-9 AM and 12:00-1:00 PM. This playground equipment will be closed during this time to allow the cleaner to dry.  Also, the Tennis Court is opened on 1 side at this time; they are working to open up both sides shortly.

3 people have been arrested after the discovery of illegal fireworks in their vehicle.  On June 27th, State Police arrested 29 year old Leon Tryon and 25 year old Garett Lavalley, both of Wolcott, NY.  They were each charged with Unlawfully Dealing with Fireworks and Dangerous Fireworks.  A third person was charged with a violation level offense for Possessing a Firework or Dangerous Firework.   A trooper monitoring traffic on I-81 in Kirkwood observed Tyron make a vehicle and traffic infraction. A stop was initiated and an investigation led to the discovery of $900 worth of illegal fireworks.  All 3 were processed and issued appearance tickets to the town of Kirkwood court on July 15th.

State Police arrested 35 year old Holly Cornell of Berkshire for Unlawfully Dealing with Fireworks and Dangerous Fireworks, after a trooper monitoring traffic on I-81 in the town of Kirkwood initiated a traffic stop after a traffic violation, troopers located over $2,000 worth of illegal fireworks in Cornell’s possession, she was released on appearance tickets to the town of Kirkwood court on July 7th.

The New York State Board on Electric Generation Siting and the Environment will meet by a Webcast at 10:30 AM Today, which can be heard at dps.ny.gov/Webcasts.  The Siting Board agenda includes the Application of High Bridge Wind, LLC for a Certificate of Environmental Compatibility and Public Need Pursuant to Article 10 to construct a Wind Powered Electric Generating Facility in the Town of Guilford.

The Otsego County Department of Health has 1 New case of the Coronavirus, giving them 76 total confirmed cases, no one is hospitalized,  69 have recovered, there have been 5 deaths, 11 people are quarantined, 5,589 tests have been performed.

A Red Cross Blood Drive is being held in Sidney today from 11:30 AM to 4:30 PM at the Sidney Fire Hall Training Center on River Street.  All Blood types are needed; appointments can be made by downloading the free Blood Donor App, visiting RedCrossBlood.org, calling 1-800-RED CROSS.

The State Department of Transportation will host a virtual public hearing by videoconference with a phone-in option for the upcoming bridge replacement project in the Towns of Fenton and Barker in Broome County; and the Town of Greene in Chenango County.  The Hearing will be held today, at 5:00 pm at dot.ny.gov/NY79ChenangoRiverBridge

Governor Cuomo gave his latest Coronavirus briefing today in Watertown, as 12 more upstate counties in the state will have a 1st phase "Re-Open" Friday, along with the Southern Tier, The Mohawk Valley Region & Central New York.  Governor Cuomo said that everyone will be keeping a watchful eye on the progress of the 1st 4 regions upon reopening:

(Cuomo 5-13-20)

The State Labor Department continues to work on getting all of the unemployment & pandemic Unemployment claims paid out as quickly as possible after an unprecedented demand on benefits due to the Pandemic shutdown & the addition of 3000 new employees to help tackle the load, according to Secretary to the Governor Melissa DeRosa:

(DeRosa 5-13-20)

Governor Cuomo said that people can log on daily & see how the re-opening is going with the 7 key criteria at forward.ny.gov/industries-reopening-phase.

The State Health Department reported that there are now over 340,794 Coronavirus cases, with another 2176 testing positive Tuesday, there were 166 more deaths Tuesday, bringing the state death toll to 22,013.

The Otsego County Health Department has not had a new Coronavirus positive test since May 2nd, had a total of 62 positive cases, with 4 deaths, there were no current hospitalizations in Otsego County.

Delaware County Sheriff’s Deputies responded to an accident on Elk Creek Road in the Town of Meredith Sunday afternoon, resulting in tickets for 26 year old Brandon Bathrick of Oneonta.  Deputies ticketed Bathrick for unlicensed operation of motor vehicle and aggravated unlicensed operation of motor vehicle, after he struck a tree limb in the roadway.   Bathrick’s driver’s license was suspended as a result of his failure to pay outstanding vehicle and traffic fines in the Town of Milford, Town of Oneonta and City of Oneonta Courts, he was released & will appear in the Town of Meredith Court at a later date.

The American Red Cross has blood drives scheduled Today at the Norwich VFW from 11:00 AM to 4:00 PM, & the Sidney Fireman's Training Center from 1:30 to 5:30 PM.  Appointments are requested at 1-800-Red Cross or redcrossblood.org.

Sidney Central School Alumni Association announced the cancellation of the All Class Reunion scheduled for July 17th through the 19th in Sidney.  The Association Board of Directors will meet later this month to assess whether they may be able to hold the event later this year, possibly in early October.

The Sidney Central School District is continuing with the Wednesday Bulk food deliveries today to families of District students who have signed up.  The district requests that families receiving a bulk food delivery should leave a cooler or container that can keep food cool at your door. We will put the food inside of the container at delivery. Those who are interested in receiving a bulk food delivery should call 561-7703.  The District is seeking feedback regarding communication and learning during this extended closure, with an online survey, the link is available; through the school website, the district's Facebook page and twitter account.

On Monday, a Red Cross EMERGENCY
Blood Drive will be held at the Sidney Fire Department Training Center on River
Street.  Blood supplies are extremely low
as a number of Blood Drives were cancelled due to the COVID 19 Pandemic, the
blood drive will be held from 10:00 am to 3:00 pm Monday.

Delaware County
Officials announced today that the Solid Waste Site is still open, but that are
asking visitors to visit as little as possible and to get in and out as quickly
as possible.  Also, Effective Saturday
March 20 the SWMC will operate on a cashless pre-paid debit basis only, for
customers wishing to dispose of construction & demolition debris,
furniture, and any waste items subject to tipping disposal fee. More
information is available at the Solid Waste Department page on at the Delaware
County Website.

The Small Business Administration
announced that the statewide disaster declaration for New York is now in place,
Commerce Chenango CEO Kerri Green comments:

(Kerri Green 3-20-20)

Eligible businesses can apply for the
SBA Economic Injury Disaster Loans online at disasterloan.sba.gov/ela.  Green also said that those businesses that
want to get the exemption forms that want to be considered as
"Essential" can get it at Commercechenango.com.

The Otsego County Planning Department
announced that Otsego Express Routes 5, 6, 9 are all suspended starting Monday
March until further notice.

3 men were arrested for Criminal Mischief for allegedly
vandalizing the Oneonta Walmart on January 7th. Troopers were dispatched to
Walmart and Office Max for 3 suspicious males, after Employees from Walmart
told troopers that 3 men vandalized their Arts & Crafts area & then
attempted to enter Office Max.  On
January 11th, State Police arrested 19 year old Devin Castillo of Walton
following a rollover accident in Sidney Center which also involved several
parked cars.  An investigation revealed
that Castillo was arrested For DWI, he was implicated in the Walmart case,
police arrested Castillo, 21 year old Jamie Sophie of Unadilla, & 21 year
old Nathaniel Rubera of Unadilla, all 3 were released on appearance tickets for
Oneonta Court at a later date.

The Village of Delhi Police Department arrested 25-year-old
Cheyenne Strong of Sidney for Endangering the Welfare of a Child, Criminal
Contempt and Harassment.  Strong was
arraigned in the Delhi Town Court where she was released on her own
recognizance.

Congressman Anthony Brindisi
announced the FEMA Assistance to Firefighters Grant Program is now taking
applications from local fire departments, through March 13th.  Grant Money can be used for training,
equipment, vehicles, and other necessities for local fire departments.  Last year, Congressman Brindisi secured more
than $2 million in Grant money for Fire departments, more information is
available at 315-732-0713

3 players and a labor leader who changed baseball's economic
model will receive the National Pastime’s highest honor in Cooperstown during
Hall of Fame Weekend on July 24-27th.
The National Baseball Hall of Fame’s 2020 Induction Ceremony will
feature Baseball Writers’ Association of America electees Derek Jeter and Larry
Walker along with Modern Baseball Era electees Union Leader Marvin Miller and
Ted Simmons. The Class of 2020 will be formally inducted during the event
beginning at 1:30 p.m. on Sunday, July 26 on the grounds of the Clark Sports
Center in Cooperstown,

The Morris fire department was dispatched to the Brian
Madden residence at 287 West Hill Road home at just Monday afternoon.   Mutual aid was provided by from
Gilbertsville, West Laurens, Laurens, Mt. Vision, South New Berlin, New Berlin,
Pittsfield, and Mt. Upton, no injuries were reported, Madden escaped without
injury.

Firefighters responded Monday
afternoon to a fire at 959 County Highway 10 in Laurens.  The fire at the Decker residence was
attributed to a clogged chimney, the Deckers & their dog escaped without
injury, friends & relatives have started a go fund me page to assist the
family.

Governor Cuomo announced a proposal for eliminating the
"Pink Tax" on products aimed specifically for women.  A study in 2015 that analyzed prices of toys,
clothing, personal care products and home health products that were substantially
similar and found that 42% of the time, products targeted towards women are
more expensive than men's.   Women’s
merchandise costs 7% on average more than similar items for men, with personal
care products for women found to be priced 13% higher than men's products.

The Annual free Christmas dinner put on by Gene Schmidt
& his family will be held tomorrow Christmas Day in Sidney.  The dinner will be held at the River Street
Fire Station from 1:00 to 4:00 & it is free to the public.

State Police & the Otsego County Sheriff's Department
responded to the report of a Tractor Trailer accident on I-88 Eastbound, at the
Milford & Maryland Town Line this morning.
No injuries were reported, the investigation is continuing.

The Sidney Fire Department will be holding an Open House
tonight at their River Street Location.
The Open House will run from 6:00 to 8:00 PM.

The Sidney Junior Senior High school will hold an open House
this evening.  The Open House will run
from 6:30 to 8:00 PM.

Catholic Charities will hold
their 3rd Annual 5K Color Run on October 13th at the Sidney Central School,
with the 5K starting at 2:00 PM & the color run at 3:00 PM.  Registration is available at local races.com.

Governor Cuomo signed legislation prohibiting ambulance and
first response service providers from disclosing or selling private patient
information to third parties for marketing purposes. Under prior law, emergency
response providers could sell information that identifies an individual patient
such as addresses and phone numbers, prescriptions and medical history. The new
law prohibits the disclosure of such information to third parties, except to
healthcare providers, the patient's insurer and parties acting under
appropriate legal authority.

Otsego County Chamber will host their state Mandated
Anti-Harassment Policies and Sexual Harassment Training today at 1:00 PM at
Northern Eagle Beverages at 41 Browne Street in Oneonta.   The State mandates ALL employers adopt a
sexual harassment prevention policy as well as to train ALL employees on sexual
harassment prevention.  Pinnacle Human
Resources, LLC will conduct the training.

Development Chenango has committed $100,000 to support the
UHS Chenango Memorial Hospital capital campaign, to support construction of a
new Emergency Room and Walk-In Center, as well as investments in Diagnostic
Imaging and infrastructure to support the growth of future services.

The Annual Bainbridge
Glow Run will be held on September 14th at General Clinton Park in
Bainbridge.  The event began in 2015
after Heather Bucalos of Sidney finished her treatment for Hodgkin’s Lymphoma
and decided to hold fundraisers for area cancer patients.  This year, Heather has suffered a relapse
& her friends are teaming up to raise funds for her with the Glow Run
Fundraiser, Bucalos talked to WCDO News this morning about the activities
scheduled for that day:

(Heather Bucalos
8-26-19)

More information is
available at www.bainbridgeglowrun.com.
Heather’s treatment is expected to begin again in the next few weeks.

CDO Workforce is
offering Supervisory Training Classes at the Delaware County eCenter, 5 1/2
Main Street, Delhi on September 6, 13 and 20th.
This 9-hour course is divided into 3 segments and will give participants
an advanced foundation of management skills. More information is available at
832-5781.

The Hancock Fire
Department and EMT’s were dispatched Saturday to Jensen’s Ledges for a report
of a 10 year old boy who had fallen off the ledges.  The Hancock Fire Department  rope rescue team performed a high angle rope
rescue to extricate the boy within 1 hour and he was transported down the
mountain in a UTV & was transported by LifeNet to a pediatric trauma center
with life threatening injuries.

The Dormitory Authority has issued
approximately $482 million in low-cost, tax-exempt bonds on behalf of 54 school
districts across the state as part the School Districts Revenue Bond Financing
Program, for fire protection, security, and air quality systems upgrades;
renovations, Athletic field improvements; and technology updates.  Locally, the Norwich City School District
receives $7,430,000, Sidney Central School District gets $9,820,000 &
Unadilla Valley Central School District gets $6,890,000.

State Senator Jim Seward opposes the state issuing
driver's licenses to illegal immigrants.
The legislation would permit illegal immigrants to apply for standard
driver's licenses using forms of foreign identification, leaving county clerks
and employees at local Departments of Motor Vehicles unable to truly verify
authenticity:

(Seward 6-6-19)

The New York Association of County Clerks opposes
the legislation since they cannot vet documents from other countries.

Fire fighters responded Friday night to a fire at
630 Sutherland Road No. 2 in the town of Meredith.  Fire investigators determined that 78 year
old Bart Misiewicz tripped & fell while carrying a kerosene lamp, his house
was completely destroyed.  Fire fighters
from the Treadwell, Franklin, Delhi, Meridale, East Meredith and Pindars
Corners fire departments assisted, no injuries were reported.

Delaware County Public Health and Friends of Recovery
of Delaware Otsego in conjunction with Sidney Memorial Library are offering
free Narcan trainings to the public today. Each person will receive a Narcan
Rescue Kit after their training; Narcan is a nasal spray to reverse the effects
of opioids.  The event will be held at
the 6:00 pm at the Sidney Memorial Public Library- Smart Community Room at 8
River Street in Sidney.

Delaware County Public Health Free Rabies
Vaccination Clinic for dogs, cats and ferrets will be held today from 5:00 to
7:00 pm at Pindar’s Corners Fire Department, on State Route 23 in Davenport
Center.   More information is available
at 832-5200 or delawarecountypublichealth.com

The Sidney Chamber of Commerce will honor Lori
Roach as the Citizen of the Years & ABC Dance Studio as the Business of the
years, at tonight’s annual Dinner.  Lori
Roach commented:

(Lori Roach 6-6-19)

Amy Burns Cuozzo, owner of the ABC Dance Studio also
commented:

(Amy Burns Cuozzo 6-6-19)

Tonight’s Sidney Chamber of Commerce Dinner will be
held at 5:30 at the Sidney Fire Department Training Center on River Street,
both will be in the SFCU Hometown Parade Saturday.

Governor Cuomo signed the "Cancer Bill” for volunteer firefighters into law late last year, and it went into effect January 1st. The gap insurance policy that volunteer fire departments are required to carry for each member will provide tax-free disability and death benefits to volunteers with 5 years of service if they're diagnosed with specific cancers covered under the new law. New York's previous law did not cover all types of cancer. There are an estimated 96,000 volunteer firefighters in New York State.

Sears Holdings, owners of Kmart and Sears stores, announced that 80 more stores will be closed this year. The stores will all be closed by the end of March, with Texas and Florida having 7 stores closed, New York State had 5 stores closing; however no local stores were affected.

Broome County District Attorney Steve Cornwell today released drug overdose death statistics for 2018. Cornwell reported that there were 31 overdose deaths in Broome County, there were 76 overdose deaths in 2017. Cornwell said that the average age for opioid deaths was 40, 71% were male & 29% were female, 56% were in the city of Binghamton, while 44% were in other parts of Broome County. Cornwell said that 94% of the overdose deaths were from heroin or other opioids; 6% attributed to other drugs.

New York State passed legislation requiring all New York businesses - regardless of size - to provide sexual harassment prevention training to their employees. The Delaware County Chamber of Commerce has partnered with New Haven Consulting Group to provide members with an online "Preventing Sexual Harassment" workshop that meets New York state requirements and can be taken by your employees online. More information is available through the Delaware County Chamber of Commerce at delawarecounty.org or at 746-2281.

Delaware County Sheriff’s Deputies arrested 40-year-old Crystal Gager of Franklin for Endangering the Welfare of a Child and Harassment, following an investigation of an altercation in December in the Town of Franklin. Gager is accused of knowingly acting in a manner likely to be injurious to the physical, mental or moral welfare of a child less than 17-years-old; Gager also allegedly subjected another individual to unwanted physical contact by striking the individual in the face. Gager was arraigned in the Town of Sidney Court and released on her own recognizance. Gager is scheduled to appear in the Town of Franklin Court at a later date.

UHS Chenango Memorial, Commerce Chenango, Chenango Health Network and Care Compass Network are hosting an event related to Substance Use/Abuse in the Workplace on Thursday, January 31st at 7:45 AM at The Canasawacta Country Club in Norwich. Speakers will be from the legal & health care communities, Registration is requested at 334-1400 or by email: register@chenangony.org, no later than January 23rd.

Oneonta Police & Fire Department officials held a press conference Wednesday regarding the fatal fire at 5 Walling Avenue Saturday morning that killed former Oneonta Fire Fighter John Heller. Oneonta Police Chief Douglas Brenner commented:

(Chief Brenner 1-3-18)

Chief Brenner said that Truitt resided in an apartment at 5 Walling Avenue at the time of the fire, the investigation is ongoing, and anyone with information can contact the Oneonta Police Department at 432-1111, or through the department Facebook page, or through the city's Nixle web page. The Calling hours for John Heller will be held today from 5:00 to 8:00 PM at Bookhout Funeral Home, 357 Main Street in Oneonta. Funeral services will be at 1:00 PM Friday at the Foothills Performing Arts Center, a celebration of Heller's life will be held at the East Meredith Fire Department, immediately following the funeral service.

The Bainbridge-Guilford Central School will hold a Board of Education Meeting Today in the Guilford Elementary School Cafeteria at 6:30 PM. The business portion of the meeting will start at 7:00 PM.

Delaware County Sheriff’s Deputies arrested 69 year old Robert Walker of Davenport for criminal impersonation unauthorized use of emergency lights, unauthorized lights, failure to keep right, speed unreasonable and prudent and following too closely & official misconduct. Walker is accused of using a Volunteer Fire Department emergency blue light on his personal vehicle to conducted a traffic stop on another vehicle in the Town of Davenport without official authority to do so. Walker was issued appearance tickets for Town of Davenport Court at a later date.

The Oneonta Department of Public Service will be flushing water mains in the low service area starting 9:00 AM to 4:00 pm Friday. Flushing is expected to go into the better part of next week, in the Chestnut Street Area & Winnie Hill Road neighborhood. During flushing, water users may experience a change in water color, water pressure or loss of water. More information is available at 432-2100.

Otsego County Sheriff's Department arrested 21 year old Jared Talbot of Oneonta after an animal cruelty investigation involving pigs in the Town of Laurens. Talbot is accused of overriding torturing or injuring animals and failure to provide sustenance in violation of the NYS Agriculture and Markets Law. Talbot will appear in the Town of Laurens Court on a later date.

The Southside Mall Job Fair will be held today, from 3:00 to 5:00 pm. Various employers from local businesses, Agencies & Training Providers will talk with local job seekers; more information is available at cdoworkforce.org.

The Tri County Senior Center will hold a meeting today, featuring guest speaker Barbara Losee, on the topic of "changes we face as we age". The event will run from 5:15 to 6:30 pm in the Smart Community Room at the Sidney Public Library. More information is available at 563-8065

29 year old Corey Robinson was sentenced to 15 years in state prison today in Broome County Court, for the shooting of 46 year old Erika Smith-Cunningham, in Johnson City on Easter Sunday. Robinson had been at a house party at 92 Crocker Avenue in Johnson City; he left after a fight broke out & returned later & fired a shotgun into the building, fatally striking Smith-Cunningham. Robinson fled to Georgia; he was extradited back to New York to face prosecution.

U.S. Senators Charles Schumer and Kirsten Gillibrand announced $225,000 in federal funding for the Oneonta Municipal Airport. The funding was allocated through the U.S. Department of Transportation and the FAA’s Airport Improvement Program. The funding will be used to purchase new snow removal equipment.

The Binghamton Devils have announced their 2018 training camp schedule at the Floyd L. Maines Veterans Memorial Arena. Players have their first on-ice practice at 10:30 AM Tomorrow morning. Training camp will run through Friday, the Devils invite the general public to Open Practice on Thursday; the doors will open at 10:00 AM. The Devils will open up the 2018-19 season at home on Saturday, October 6 at 7:05 p.m. against the Toronto Marlies.

The State Department of Health should continue to improve how it informs the public of potential hazards in public drinking water systems, according to an audit released today by State Comptroller Tom DiNapoli. New York has 9,155 public water systems, which serves 95% of all New Yorkers. The audit stated that when water safety violations occurred, the Department did not always take appropriate or timely action to hold water systems accountable for required follow-up, such as notifying the public. Of the 126 water safety violations that auditors sampled, the Offices lacked evidence that system operators
notified the public 46% of the time, 21% were issued late. DiNapoli recommended that they prioritize actions to regulate emerging contaminants with known adverse health effects; and to make sure that safe drinking water is distributed to the public through a robust monitoring program that reports issues to the public in a timely fashion.

The 1st Annual "Pull For A Cure" event will be held this Saturday at the Trout Creek Fire Department, with a variety of events scheduled to raise money for Sidney Center resident Joshua Newell, who is battling cancer, spokesperson Melissa Oakley explains:

(Melissa Oakley 9-24-18)

Sponsors who are interested in participating can contact Oakley by email: moakley8866@gmail.com or by calling 369-4174.

The Otsego County Chamber of Commerce announced their annual small business and Entrepreneurial spirit award recipients. Directive, of Oneonta, is the recipient of the Key Bank, 19th Annual Small Business of the Year Award; The Otsego ReUse Center is the recipient of the Excellus Blue Cross Blue Shield Breakthrough Business of the Year. The award winners will be honored at the Chamber’s Small Business Banquet that will be held on Thursday, October 11th at The Otesaga Hotel in Cooperstown, beginning at 5:45 PM.

Oneonta-area non-profit organizations are getting an assist from students in a Hartwick College grant writing class. Students in the “Introduction to Grant Writing” class, partner with a local organization with the goal of developing and submitting a grant proposal on their behalf. This year, 6 students assisted: Girls on the Run, the EDD Memorial Fund, Valleyview Elementary School, the Oneonta Fire Department, and the College’s own Yager Museum of Art & Culture with grant writing assistance. More information is available at 431-4422.

The National Baseball Hall Of Fame announced that the 2018 Inductees Exhibit is open and will remain on display through May 2019. The exhibit is located on the first floor & features a display for Vladimir Guerrero, Trevor Hoffman, Chipper Jones, Jack Morris, Jim Thome and Alan Trammell. The exhibit is accompanied by a highlight video for each member of the Class of 2018. The 2018 Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony will be held at 1:30 PM on July 29 at the Clark Sports Center in Cooperstown and will be shown live on MLB Network. More than 50 Hall of Famers are expected to attend, more information is available at baseballhall.org.

A.O. Fox Hospital is offering training for individuals interested in becoming junior volunteers. The training is scheduled for Tuesday, July 10, from 8:30 am to 3:30 pm in A.O. Fox Hospital's Education Department. Applicants must be at least 14 years of age, Applications are available in the guidance offices of Oneonta Community Christian School, as well as the Oneonta, Unatego, Charlotte Valley, Franklin, Laurens, Gilbertsville–Mt. Upton, Morris and Edmeston Schools. More information is available at 431-5042.

Cornell Cooperative Extension of Delaware County will be sponsoring farmers’ markets for the 2018 season in Sidney, Walton and Deposit. The Sidney Farmers Market will be held at the Video Entertainment parking lot, 89 Main Street Every other Tuesday from July 10 to September 18, the Walton Farmers Market will be at the Veterans Plaza, 181 Delaware Street, Every other Friday from July 6 to September 28, & the Deposit Farmers Market will be at the First United Methodist Church, on August 16 & September 20, all Markets are open from 10:00 to 2:00 pm.

Delaware County Board of Elections reminds voters that absentee ballot applications can be picked up at their office in Delhi, or downloaded from their website. The Board of Elections will also be opened on Saturday October 298th, & November 4th from 9:00 AM to 12:00 Noon for absentee voting. Also, the board reminds Sidney Center voters that the polling site from District 1 & 3 Voters has been changed to the new Sidney center Fire Department Building on County Route 35. More information is available 832-5321.

The Sidney Town Board & Supervisor Gene Pigford announced that they would hold a ribbon cutting & public tours of the town’s new Municipal Building at 44 Grand Street, this Friday from 4:00 to 6:00 PM. The building formerly housed the offices of the Mirabito Fuel Group & Mang Insurance.

The New York State Preparedness Corps will conduct disaster preparedness training on Tuesday November 7th at the Sidney Public Library. The Training is free, & will cover how to prepare for a disaster, how to respond to one & how to recover as quickly as [possible. There will 2 sessions, one from 3:00 to 4:30 PM for senior citizens & another for the general public from 6:00 to 7:30 PM. The Tri County Senior Center & The Sidney United Way sponsors the Disaster Training, pre-registration is requested at 563-8065, or in person at the Senior Center.

Governor Cuomo signed legislation to deliver health care benefits to volunteer firefighters who have been diagnosed with certain cancers. Currently, volunteer firefighters are eligible for accidental disability and death benefits through Workers' Compensation if they are injured in the line of duty. Under the bill, volunteer firefighters who contract lung, prostate, breast, lymphatic, urinary, neurological, melanoma & many other types of cancer will be automatically eligible for health benefits if: Upon entry to volunteer, a physical exam did not show any evidence of the cancers; Individuals have at least 5 years of service fighting structure fires; and the firefighter is currently active or has been within the last 5 years.

Heather Franklin was back in Chenango County Court Friday, she is facing charges along with her husband Ernest Franklin, for allegedly killing their adopted son Jeffrey on March 1st, and setting their home on fire to cover up the murder. The Franklins will be tried separately, in early 2018.

Governor Cuomo announced that $1.25 million in funding is available through two grant programs designed to assist farmers across the state. The New Farmers Grant Fund helps new and early-stage farmers, and the New York State Veterans Farmer Grant Fund supports farms owned and operated by military veterans. Additional resources for new or prospective farmers are available on the Department's website, agriculture.ny.gov,

An Informational meeting will be held this morning at 10:00 AM regarding the current situation with the Main Street Revitalization project. The public is invited to attend & participate, the meeting will be held in the Civic Center 1st Floor Board Room.

Delaware County Sheriff’s Deputies and local Fire Departments and Emergency Squads responded to a fatal all-terrain vehicle accident on a riding trail in Town of Stamford at about 12:30 AM today. The accident was discovered and reported by other ATV riders, the deceased has been identified as 27 year old Daniel Reed of Stamford, who lost control of the vehicle, which subsequently overturned, Reed was ejected from the vehicle and suffered fatal injuries. Deputies believe excessive speed and failure to wear a seat belt were contributing factor, the investigation is continuing.

State Senator Fred Akshar announced over two dozen funding grants to support local volunteer fire departments and emergency services squads totaling $125,000. The grants will go toward a variety of projects depending on the needs of each department. Locally, the Bainbridge Fire Department, Colesville Fire Company, Greene Emergency Squad, Brisben Fire Department, Town of Hancock Volunteer Ambulance Corps, Hancock Fire Department, &  Windsor Emergency Services all received $5,000.

Delaware County Public Health will be sponsoring a free EPA Certified Lead Renovator 8-Hr. Training Course on Thursday, October 26th at the Walton Town Hall. ConTrax, LLC is conducting the class, which is sponsored by Delaware County Public Health, Free Tuition offered on a first come basis, with preference given to Delaware County Residents, businesses, rental property owners, home improvement contractors and Their employees. Registration is underway at 607-588-6640, or email INFO@CONTRAXLLC.COM. More information is available at contraxllc.com

State Police Major William McEvoy invites the public to help celebrate 100 years of service by attending the Centennial Open House at Troop C in Sidney on October 7th from 11:00 am to 3:00 pm. The event will have demonstrations from the K-9 unit, Helicopter Rescue, Underwater Recovery Team, Special Operations Response Team, & the Centennial Mounted Unit, and much more. There will be historical displays, firearm displays, vintage Troop cars, motorcycles, along with hands-on patrol car displays, McGruff the Crime Dog, tours of Troop Headquarters and the new Forensic Center. There is no admission; parking will be done at off-site parking on Delaware Avenue and Union Street in Sidney, with Shuttle buses running from that site.

Chenango County Sheriff's department arrested 2 Town of Greene residents for Criminal Sale of a Controlled Substance, Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance and Criminal Nuisance. Arrested were 47-year-old Chad Shields of Greene, & 19-year-old Shawn Rhodes of Greene. Shields and Rhodes were arrested following an investigation into the sale and possession of Cocaine and Methamphetamine in Chenango County; they were arraigned in the Town of Oxford Court and remanded to the Chenango County Jail on $30,000.00 cash bail. The Greene Police Department, State Police, and the Chenango County District Attorney’s Office assisted the Chenango County Sheriff’s Office.

Sidney Village Police arrested 22-year-old Christopher Schoonmaker of Sidney, following an investigation into illegal drug sales in Sidney. Schoonmaker was charged with criminal sale of marijuana, he was remanded to the Delaware county jail on $4,000 cash bail pending future court action.

A new office for Sidney & Tri Town Area Veterans may be opening shortly, according to Assemblyman Cliff crouch:

(Crouch 6-20-17)

The Veterans Affairs office that was formerly located at the SIdney Civic Center has been closed, since the building was sold to 2+4 developers, and they started converting the 2nd & 3rd Floors to senior housing.

Sidney Village police arrested 32 year old Jason Katalinas of Unadilla for felony DWI, driving with a BAC over .08, aggravated unlicensed operation of a motor vehicle, and operating a motor vehicle without a court ordered interlock device. Katalinas faces court action shortly.

CDO Workforce will hold a program about College Degrees & Career Opportunities available from SUNY Delhi, on Friday, June 30th at 1:00 pm. The session will be held at the CDO Workforce Center at the Sidney Civic Center. Misty Fields, who is the Assistant Director of Admissions at SUNY Delhi will be available to provide information about the application process, financial aid and training & career programs with SUNY Delhi and other SUNY Colleges. For reservations or more information, interested residents can call 832-5776.

The Delhi Fire Department responded to a reported structure fire at 123 Main Street in the Village of Delhi at the O’Neill’s Shire Pub, Monday Morning. Bloomville, Bovina and Walton Fire Departments were requested as mutual aid. The fire was deemed under control by 9:00 am. The investigation revealed that the fire was accidental in nature and started in the kitchen of the Pub from spontaneous combustion of cleaning towels that were recently laundered. Two upstairs residents were not home, Their dog and 2 cats were rescued by firefighters, no firefighter injuries were reported. The building remains structurally sound however there was heavy smoke and heat damage to the kitchen and bar area. The upstairs apartments suffered smoke damage and some water damage.

Chenango County Sheriff's Department responded Sunday evening at 7:12 PM, to a 2 car crash on State Route 12 in the Town of Norwich. A vehicle operated by 37 year old Amber Ryan of Norwich NY, made a left turn into the path of a vehicle operated by 61 year old Randolph Smith of Earlville. Ryan was transported to UHS Wilson Hospital with minor injuries, her front seat passenger 26 year old Nicholas Ohl was transported to Wilson Hospital with serious injuries. Randolph Smith was transported to UHS Chenango Memorial with minor injuries; Robin Smith, a front seat passenger in Randolph Smith’s vehicle was also transported to UHS Wilson with minor injuries. Two rear passengers in Smith vehicle were uninjured. State Route 12 was closed for approximately 3 hours due to the investigation. The investigation into the crash is ongoing.

Campus sexual assault was the topic of a daylong training session Monday by State Police. More than 120 campus administrators, victim advocates and others attended the session at the State University of New York at Geneseo. Topics included domestic violence, stalking and how to preserve digital evidence. The training was presented by the State Police Campus Sexual Assault Victims Unit.