WCDO Radio News

Camp Forget Me Not is a camp for children from Helios Care, to help them deal with their grief from the loss of a loved one, program organizer Inda Fitch comments:

(Inda Fitch 7-9-26)

Children can get signed up for the July 23rd class at the Townsend Elementary School in Walton, by calling 607-432-5525 by July 16th, more information is available at Helioscare.org.

The Village of Sidney announced that the Village Clerk’s office will be open starting Monday, they will operate out of the Former DMV office in the Sidney Civic Center until ceiling repairs are completed in the regular clerk’s office.

A.M. NEWS THURSDAY 7-9-26

47 year old Neil Wesley was sentenced to 25 years in prison for receipt and possession of child pornography in US District Court. As part of his guilty plea, Wesley admitted he had been previously convicted of rape in New York in 2001, he also admitted that from at least December 2024 through February 2025 he received and distributed child pornography & he possessed over 200 images and 18 videos of child pornography. In addition to the 25-year imprisonment term, United States District Judge Anthony J. Brindisi imposed 15 years of supervised release, forfeiture and directed restitution to victims of the offense.

60 year old Robert Scott of Binghamton, was indicted in US District Court on a charge of possession with intent to distribute fentanyl and crack cocaine. According to the indictment, on October 30, 2025, Scott possessed with the intent to distribute 40 grams or more of fentanyl and 28 grams or more of crack cocaine. Scott was also on federal probation at the time of the offense. The charge filed against Scott carries a minimum sentence of 5 years in prison and a maximum sentence of up to 40 years in prison, a fine of up to $5,000,000, and a period of supervised release of at least 4 years and up to life, if convicted.

The Sidney Town Board announced that they will hold a Public Information Session This evening at 7:00 PM, to discuss Data Centers, & Battery Storage Units, followed by the Regular meeting at 44 Grand Street in Sidney.

P.M. NEWS TUESDAY 6-30-26

With extreme heat forecast in the Tri-County Region over the next few days, Cooling stations will be open at various location, in Delaware County, cooling stations will be at the Sidney Memorial Public Library, the Andes Public Library, other locations may be announced, In Chenango County, designated emergency cooling centers include the Guernsey Memorial Library at 3 Court Street, in Norwich, the Sherburne Public Library, more information may be available from the Chenango County Clerk's Office. IN Otsego County, cooling centers include the Southside Mall, The Foxcare Center as well as the greater Plains & Wilber Pools in Oneonta or the Clark Sport Center in Cooperstown, more information is available at the State Department of Health

35 Year old Ciera Washington of the Bronx pleaded guilty in US District Court to conspiracy to commit health care fraud and aggravated identity theft. Washington admitted that from April 2023 through October 2024, she worked with 2 others to steal the personal information of Medicaid beneficiaries and use that information to fraudulently obtain prescription medications from pharmacies throughout New York State & the Northeastern States, which caused a loss of nearly $4 million to the Medicaid program and tens of thousands of dollars to pharmacies. Washington agreed to forfeit over $400,000 in proceeds from her crimes and to consent to an order of restitution for the losses they caused. Washington faces up to 10 years’ imprisonment on the fraud count and a mandatory term of 2 years on the aggravated identity theft count, which must run consecutively, when sentenced in October in Federal Court, She also faces a term of supervised release of up to 3 years.

A community-wide conversation about housing insecurity and homelessness will take center stage in Norwich next month, as leaders come together to host A Conference on Housing and Belonging. The event will take place from 9:30 am. to 2 pm. on Friday, July 17 in the Norwich High School Auditorium. The conference is free and open to the public. Registration is recommended but not required. For more information or to register, contact AnnMarie Smith, Assistant Director of Housing Services, Catholic Charities of Chenango County at (607) 334-8244, ext. 242, or via email at amsmith@ccofcc.com.

Walton Police arrested former Walton Teacher Eric Scofield who allegedly violated an Order of Protection by being on school property. Scofield was located on the property of the Walton High School, Scofield was charged with 4 counts of Criminal Contempt, he was arraigned & was being held at the Delaware County Correctional Facility on $50,000 cash bail or $100,000 bond. Scofield was ordered to stay away from the district after an investigation for engaging in improper communications with students.

Some tickets are still remaining for the Southern Tier Music Fest on July 4th at the Sidney Airport, one of the Organizers Ed Curley visited WCDO today to talk about ticket availability:

(Ed Curley 6-11-26)

Country Star Jackson Dean is the headline with many other local bands performing throughout the day, the full line up & other information can be found at southerntiermusicfest.com.

P.M. NEWS MONDAY 6-8-26

Delaware County District Attorney Shawn Smith & Delaware County Sheriff DuMond will hold a press conference Tuesday at 10:30 to announce the conviction of Brent Trimbell of Hobart, who was the high school coach that was alleged to have sexually abused two female victims while serving in his position and previously raping a third victim. Trimbell had also bee arrested on Federal charges in connection with this investigation.

No Arrests have been reported regarding the theft of nameplates at the Sidney Veterans Memorial Park. Assemblyman Joe Angelino has offered a $1,000 rewards, those who want to donate to defer the cost of replacement, there is a donate link on the web page, SVMPA.org.

Keiko Howard is an artist and painter from Sidney Center who is painting a mural on the Liberty Street Side of 7 Stones in downtown Sidney, She told WCDO News that she was commissioned to paint the mural after completing a small 1 on the side of Sidney Flowers & Gifts:

(Keiko Howard 5-28-26)

Howard said that she is going to paint an indoor mural at the Community Cultural Center in Sidney after the completion of the current work, she is also looking to recruit other area artists to try to have painting & murals in village business district in the region.

The 218th Session of the New York State Police Basic School held their graduation today at the Empire State Plaza Convention Center. 175 Troopers graduated, 23 are training in Troop C, 8 are local from the Troop C area. The new Troopers will be starting May 30 and will be with a Field Training Officer for 10 weeks before getting their official permanent station assignment. The list of the graduates can be found at troopers.ny.gov.

The Children's Home will have a Foster Care and Adoption information session tonight at the Sidney Library, Meryl Juster conducts the session and said that tonight's session is more informal:

(Meryl Juster 5-20-26)

More information about foster care is available at 607-765-9059.

Delaware Valley Humane Society & Waste Recovery Enterprises are teaming up for the Spring "Heavy Metal Haul-Out" through the end of this month. Interested participants can bring scrap metal to the large bin across from WRE on Valley View Road off of State Route 7 in Sidney. WRE donates the money they get for the scrap metal to the Delaware Valley Humane Society.

Area School District budgets were passed yesterday, mostly by large margins. Sidney voters approved the budget, the purchase of 2 Diesel busses & the library budget, budgets and propositions passed in Franklin, GMU, BG, Unatego & Afton. Norwich School District voters voted against a plan to sell the Flanagan Field property, which would have allowed for a housing complex to be built there, Milford voters decided against a plan to eliminate seats on the School Board, in Oxford voters turned down a proposal for the purchase of zero emissions vehicles. ============================================

School budgets will be voted on state wide today, as well as Board of Education in school bus purchases in some cases. Check with you local school district website or Facebook page for the times & locations for voting.

2 American Red Cross Blood Drives are being held today, 1 in Sidney from 1 pm. - 6 pm., at the American Legion Post 183, 22 Union Street, and another will be in Cooperstown, from 12:30 pm. - 5:30 pm., at Bassett Hall, 31 Beaver St; make appointments at RedCrossBlood.org, calling 1-800-RED CROSS or by using the Red Cross Blood Donor App.

New Yorkers will vote on School Budgets in New York State Tuesday, as well as Board of Education seats, school bus purchases or other ancillary costs associated with education. Sidney Superintendent Eben Bullock told WCDO News about their 35.5 Million Dollar Budget with 0% tax levy increase:

(Eben Bullock 5-18-26)

Voting will be at the Sidney High School from 11:00 AM to 8:00 PM. Bainbridge Guilford Superintendent Tim Ryan told WCDO News that they had to deal with a $1 Million dollar gap before sending the proposal to voters:

(TIM RYAN 5-18-26)

The BG total budget is 26.9 Million dollars, the Tax Levy Increase is 1.59% Voting will be at the Greenlawn & Guilford Elementary school buildings. In the Unatego School District, Dr. Dave Richards told WCDO about their budget:

(Dr Dave Richards -18-26)

Voting for Unatego area residents will be from 12:00 to 8:00 PM at the Jr. Sr. High school.

Regatta Row will be set up for another week in the Bainbridge Business District, the canoe paddle Adirondack chairs will be brought to the General Clinton Canoe Regatta grounds next Friday & they will be auctioned off at 4:00 PM Saturday May 23rd in the Chamber of Commerce tent at General Clinton park during the canoe regatta. The auctions will start online at 32auctions.com.

A.M. NEWS FRIDAY 5-15-26

Hartwick College will confer degrees to approximately 220 students during its 94th Commencement ceremony, which begins at 10 am. Saturday, on Elmore Field. For more information, visit hartwick.edu, the event will also be live streamed on the Hartwick College You Tube Channel.

The Mid-York Concert Band will hold their annual Spring Concert in Norwich Sunday, band director Doug Ernst explains:

(Doug Ernst 5-15-26)

The Mid-York Concert Band is celebrating its 42nd year, the next performance is Sunday, at 2:00 PM in the Norwich High School Auditorium, and they will hold a Christmas program later in the holiday season.

2 more American Red Cross Blood Drives are being held today 1 in Margaretville from 1:30 pm. - 5:30 pm., at the Fire Department, another in Deposit from 8 am. - 1 pm., at the Deposit Central School, make appointments at RedCrossBlood.org, by calling 1-800-RED CROSS or by using the Red Cross Blood Donor App.

Saturday will be the 2nd annual “Play for Pete” Peter Stanton Jr Memorial Softball Tournament @Keith Clark Park in Sidney. The day will include an 8 team softball tournament, concessions, Hot Air Balloon Rides, face painting, music, Cornhole raffles & door prizes. ALL proceeds from the event go to Athletic awards, Scholarships and Youth sports programs.

P.M. NEWS THURSDAY 5-7-26

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

48 year old Jason Gray of Bainbridge, pleaded guilty to Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance for possessing Fentanyl with intent to sell. Gray also pleaded guilty to Driving While Ability Impaired by Drugs, in Delaware County Court Tuesday. Gray admitted that he was found with Fentanyl during a traffic stop on West Main Street in the Village of Sidney on January 22nd & he was impaired by methamphetamine while driving, Gray will be sentenced to 5 years in state prison and 2 years of post-release supervision & his drivers license will also be revoked.

2 American Red Cross Blood Drives are being held today, one in Garrattsville from 1:30 pm. - 5:30 pm., at the New Lisbon Town Hall, another in Sidney from 11 am. - 4 pm., at the Sidney High School, Book a time to give blood or platelets by visiting RedCrossBlood.org, calling 1-800-RED CROSS or by using the Red Cross Blood Donor App.

Otsego County School Districts Plastic Film Recycling challenge ends today, after Otsego County Students collected & turned in plastics like grocery bags, bread bags & bubble wrap to get them out of the waste stream, Kyle King of the Otsego County Solid waste Department explains:

(Kyle King 4-17-26)

King said that in recent years, the challenge has successfully recycled tons of the plastic film items, with the winning district getting the ice cream event each year of the contest.

The Community Cultural Center will have a comedy night tonight at 1 Bridge Street in Sidney, spokesperson Amy Williams explains:

(AMY WILLIAMS 4-17-26)

Tickets for tonight's show can be found online at MikaelGregg.com, or at the door before the show.

Butternut Valley Alliance, Morris Rotary, and Morris Central School are partnering for an Earth Day community clean-up and creek-side planting day on Saturday, from 10:00 AM to 12:00 in the village of Morris. Participants will meet at the Morris Central School parking lot to spread out in groups to pick up debris along the roads in Morris and plant milkweed provided by Upper Susquehanna Coalition along the Butternut and Calhoun creeks. For more information, visit butternutvalleyalliance.org

Volunteers are needed for a spring clean up day at Keith Clark Park in Sidney Saturday starting at 10:00 AM, organizer Lori Roach explains:

(Lori Roach 4-14-26)

People are advised to dressaccordingly & they can bring gardening tools, more information is available at 607-604-4445.

Greater Opportunities of Broome and Chenango County, recently won the bid from the Norwich School District to purchase Flanagan Field on Plymouth Street in Norwich, they plan to build a $9 million multi-unit apartment project for low-income housing at the site. The sale of the parcel has to be approved by voters in the Norwich School District when they vote on the district budget on May 19th in the Norwich City School District Office, 89 Midland Drive in Norwich.

AM NEWS TUESDAY 4-14-26

Walton Fire Department and Emergency Squad were dispatched Sunday at about 2:00 PM to a working structure fire on Fish Hollow Road in the Town of Hamden, that was called in by a passerby. Upon arriving, units found a 2 1/2 story farm house with smoke & flames showing, by 3:00 pm the fire was under control, the structure was a total loss and 1 nearby structure was saved, No injuries were reported to the 3 residents or firefighters, mutual aid was provided by several area Fire Departments.

P.M. NEWS WEDNESDAY 4-8-26

The State Legislature approved of another 7 day extension for the new State budget, it was passed today and will keep the State government running until April 14. The State budget was originally due April 1st, 2 extension have been put in place, the budget has been late for the last 5 years. Sticking points included school aid, car insurance reforms, adjustments to the state's climate laws and changes to Tier 6 pension rules.

27 year old Delos Thurston of Clinton, pleaded guilty on Tuesday in US District Court to money order fraud. Thurston admitted that between April 2025 and January 2026, while he was employed as the Postmaster of the Morrisville Post Office, he fraudulently issued 179 money orders for his own benefit without paying for them, in the amount of $118,088.19 from the United States. Thurston is scheduled for sentencing on August 6, he faces a maximum term of 5 years in prison, a fine of up to $250,000, and a term of supervised release of up to 3 years.

On April 2nd, Delaware County Sheriff's Deputies observed a vehicle on Division Street in Sidney, pulling out onto Main Street and cutting another vehicle off that was traveling on Main Street. Upon conducting a traffic stop, 66 year-old JeanMichel Letennier of Sidney, was found to have his driving privileges suspended, with a total of 28 suspensions, 26 in the State of New York. Letennier was charged with Aggravated Unlicensed Operation of a Motor Vehicle, as well as a host of violations of the State Vehicle and Traffic Law. Letennier was processed and transported to the Delaware County Correctional Facility to await Arraignment.

The State DEC & The National Weather Service are reminding residents that th estate burn ban remains in effect through May 14th. The Weather service reported today that the combination of dry grounds, wind gusts of 20 to 30 miles & hours & low relative humidity levels can contribute to an elevated risk of fast spreading wildfires currently in New York State.

P.M. NEWS FRIDAY 3-20-26

Sidney Police Department responded to a 3 vehicle head on collision Thursday Morning at about 10:20 AM on State Route 8 & River Street. Upon arrival, officers determined that a commercial Box Truck traveling southbound on State Route 8, was involved in a head-on collision with 2 vehicles traveling in the opposite direction. 1 driver sustained injuries and was transported by Lifenet to Upstate Medical University Hospital for treatment. The other two drivers were treated at Tri-Town Regional Hospital and subsequently released. The Sidney Police Department was assisted at the scene by the Sidney Fire Department, Sidney EMS, State Police & DOT, among others, The cause of the accident remains under investigation at this time.

Republican Candidate Terry Bernardo will hold a Meet & Greet with local voters, on Sunday from 12:00 Noon until 2:00 PM, at the Community Cultural Center at 1 Bridge Street in Sidney. Bernardo is running for the 51 State Senate District, seeking to replace Peter Oberacker, who has decided to run for Congress in the next election.

A.M. NEWS FRIDAY 3-20-26

State Police responded to Hancock High School Thursday morning for a report of shots fired. Police investigated & found no evidence of a shooting & no threat to the public.

The Afton Sertoma Club's Goofy Golf event will be held at the Afton School Saturday, starting at 11:00 am, participants will play miniature golf throughout the school building, the event is the Sertoma's key fundraiser to fund area programs.

P.M. NEWS THURSDAY 3-19-26

46 year old Arthur Cotten of Sidney, pleaded guilty to Reckless Endangerment & resisting Arrest in Delaware County Court, he was appearing for a conference on a pending indictment, he decided to pleaded guilty to the charges, relating to an incident on July 19, 2025, in the Village of Sidney, where he attempted to light himself on fire with gasoline in a garage near a propane tank, Sidney Police Officers Royce Terry and Jenna Nordberg, managed to get the fire extinguished without any person or property being seriously harmed. Cotten will be sentenced on April 28th

State Comptroller Tom DiNapoli announced that 7 villages were designated in fiscal stress under his office's Fiscal Stress Monitoring System for their fiscal year ending in 2025. DiNapoli's office evaluates municipalities & school district each year for fiscal stress, no villages in the Tri-County Region were on the list this year. The report can be found at osc.ny.gov.

A.M. NEWS Thursday 3-19-26

Delaware County DA Shawn Smith announced that the Appellate Division of the New York State Supreme Court affirmed the Delaware County County Court conviction of Joshua Condon that resulted in a 20 year prison term & 10 years old post release supervision. Condon appealed the sentence for Criminal Sexual Act for abusing an 8 year old child, but after losing the appeal, Condon's original sentence will stand.

The Competition will begin today from 6:00 to 10:00 PM for those interested in singing at the Southern Tier Music Fest on July 4th at the Sidney Airport, Festival Co-organizer Jake Cotten explains:

(Jake Cotten 3-19-26)

Entry forms for the competition can be found on the Northern Star Facebook page or at Southern Tier Music Fest.com, the music festival will be held on July 4th at the Sidney Airport headlined by Jackson Dean.

Greater Opportunities of Broome and Chenango County has been awarded $9 million in grant funding for a new 20-unit residential housing project in Norwich. The development will be located at the former Flanagan Field on Plymouth Street, $8 million from the State Homes and Community Renewal Home-ARP and $1 million from a Chenango County Infrastructure Grant. The project calls for a 20-unit residential development that will be ADA compliant, Greater Opportunities will enter into a purchase agreement with the Norwich City School District to acquire the land after a survey is performed.

The National Baseball Hall of Fame & Museum today announced that artifacts from Team Venezuela, have been acquired by the Hall, after Venezuela’s 3-2 win over Team USA, to win the World Baseball Classic Tuesday night in Miami Florida. The Museum acquired Helmet worn by WBC Most Valuable Player Maikel Garcia in the championship game, Venezuela-themed shoes worn by closer Danny Palencia in the championship game, Batting gloves worn by Eugenio Suárez when he hit the game-winning double. Other artifacts were acquired from manager Omar López, Wilyer Abreu & Salvador Perez

A.M. NEWS WEDNESDAY 3-18-26

The Tri-County Seniors will begin a 3 part series regarding End Of Life Issues starting today at the Sidney Library Smart Community Room, Spokesperson Carol Allen explains:

(Carol Allen 2-10-26)

The next in the series will be held on April 15th & May 13th also at the Sidney Library, Pre Registration is requested by calling 607-563-8065, or by email tricountyseniorcenter@yahoo.com.

WCDO NEWS Wednesday 3-4-26

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

A.M. NEWS WEDNESDAY 3-4-26

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

The next meeting of the Sidney Chamber of Commerce will be held this morning, at Club 55 on Union Street, starting at 8:00 AM. Members & Directors are encouraged to attend.

P.M. NEWS MONDAY 2-16-26

The Walton Police Department & the Delaware County District Attorney's Office announced the arrested of Walton High School teacher Eric Scofield for dissemination of indecent materials to Minors. 2 counts of a Sexually motivated felony, 7 counts of tampering with physical evidence & 5 counts of official misconduct, following a complaint that Scofield was engaging in improper communications with students. Scofield was brought to the Delaware County Correctional facility pending arraignment on the charges.

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

Dr. Joseph Tabone of Sidney passed away on February 12th, He moved to Sidney in 1967 where he continued his practice as a Chiropractor until his retirement in 2005. Visitation will be held at C. H. Landers Funeral Home; 21 Main Street in Sidney on Thursday February 19, 2026 from 4-7 pm. Mass Services will be held at Sacred Heart Church, 15 Liberty St, Sidney, NY on Friday February 20, 2026 at 11:00 am with gathering following at the Parrish Hall.

59 year old Brian Gill of Andes, pleaded guilty to social security fraud in US District Court, Gill admitted that between January 2021 and November 2023, he was collecting social security disability benefits, while managing and engaging in physical labor for a tree services company he owned and operated. Sentencing is scheduled for May 21, Gill faces a maximum sentence of 5 years in federal prison and a fine of up to $250,000. As part of his plea deal, Gill agreed to pay restitution for the funds he fraudulently collected to the Social Security Administration.

Blood Supplies are still very low after a challenging winter and an active Flu season, Meg Rossman of the American Red Cross urges people to make & keep their blood donation appointments, and they have sweetened the deal this month:

(Meg Rossman 2-12-26)

A Blood Drive is being held in Sidney today from 11 am. - 4 pm., at the Sidney High School, book an appointment to give blood or platelets now by using the Blood Donor App, visiting RedCrossBlood.org or calling 1-800-RED CROSS.

Today is the last day to register for a new Grief Support group called "GRIEF-SHARE" which will meet weekly on Monday evenings beginning at 5:30 at the Sidney Methodist Church on Liberty Street. The session will run from February 16th through May 11th, call 607-563-1921 or send an email: SIDNEY U M C 4@ GMAIL.COM.

State Police at Troop C responded to a school bus crash on its side in the town of Truxton this morning. A bus from the Homer Central School District had 11 elementary school aged students on the bus, the school bus driver and a school bus aide. Troopers & Local EMS responded, 2 seven year old & an 9 year old were taken to an area hospital, 2 with head injuries and 1 with a hand injury, several other reported minor injuries & were treated at the scene & released, other students were transferred to another bus and transported to the Homer School District.

More acts have been added to the Southern Tier Music Fest in July at the Sidney Airport, spokesman Jake Cotten told WCDO News who has been added:

(Jake Cotten 2-9-26)

Tickets are on sale at southerntiermusicfest.com, VIP Tickets will be reduced February 12th through the 15th.

An American Red Cross Blood Drive is being held today from 9 am. - 2 pm., at the Unatego Junior Senior High School, book an appointment by using the Blood Donor App, visiting RedCrossBlood.org or calling 1-800-RED CROSS

The latest Sienna Institute Polling has Governor Kathy Hochul holding a commanding lead over Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman, 54-28%. Among registered Democrats, Hochul has an overwhelming 64-11% lead over Lt. Governor Antonio Delgado. 6 of the Governors proposals received 58-68% support, including eliminating state income tax on the first $25,000 earned in tips, ensuring immigration enforcement targeting those in the country illegally, cannot occur in sensitive locations such as schools, hospitals, & places of worship, increasing childcare funding & providing $30 million in payments to farmers to offset what Hochul calls rising costs due to tariffs (59-17%).

Delaware County District Attorney Shawn Smith announced that 62 year old Amber Sines of Sidney pleaded guilty in the Village of Sidney Court to Driving While Intoxicated, Sines was sentenced yesterday to 60 days in jail to be followed by 3 years of probation supervision, her license was revoked, and she will be required to install an ignition interlock device in any vehicle she owns or operates if she re-obtains the privilege to drive. Sines was arrested last March by State Police after observing a vehicle sitting stationery at the intersection of State Highway 8 and Delaware Avenue in the Village of Sidney, the vehicle had an expired registration and inspection and she failed Standardized Field Sobriety Tests at the scene and was placed into custody.

With the cold weather forecasted for this upcoming weekend, the Friends of Rogers Winter Living Celebration is RESCHEDULED and moving to February 14th from 11AM-3PM. The Rogers Center is located in Sherburne, more information is available at friendsofrogers.org.

A.M. NEWS Tuesday 2-3-26

The DCMO BOCES Board of Education proposed capital building project plan will be voted on today until 8:00 PM, by residents of all of the school districts associated with the Pole Campus in Norwich & the Harrold Campus in Trout Creek, and they will also vote on the purchase of the former Masonville Elementary School to house programs for students. BOCES District Superintendent Michael Rullo told WCDO News of the main reasons for the projects:

(Michael Rullo 11-4-25)

Rullo said that the BOCES buildings are over more than 50 years old, with the most recent renovations approved in 2005. The projects would start in March of 2027 and conclude in 2028, if approved by voters today.

Chobani announced that they awarded $400,000 in grants to 40 nonprofit groups through the eighth annual Community Impact Fund. The grants will go to organizations in Central New York, Idaho, Philadelphia and Muskegon Michigan. Locally, the Afton Central Schools will use the funds to build a greenhouse for agricultural education and to supply fresh produce for the FFA Food Pantry. The Food Bank of Central New York will support its Senior Grocery Program, the Norwich City School District will expand its backpack program, the Oneonta Middle School will provide grocery gift cards to families throughout the year, and the Cooperstown Food Pantry will use its grant to offer year-round farmers market vouchers, SNAP matching and CSA shares from regional farms.

Sidney Federal Credit Union announced a $1 million community support initiative for 2026, titled "Why SFCU? 1 Million Reasons," the initiative seeks to make a difference in the lives of residents throughout the region, Chief Retail Officer Andrew Smith explains:

(Andrew Smith 1-29-26)

Smith said that they will be announcing the organizations that will benefit from the initiative shortly, more information is available at sfcuonline.org/1millionreasons or follow @sidneyfcu on social media.

P.M. NEWS TUESDAY 1-27-26

Delaware County District Attorney Shawn Smith announced today that 49 year old Justin Valk of Davenport was found guilty of 2nd degree Murder, Assault, Reckless Endangerment, 2 counts of Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance with Intent to Sell, by a jury in Delaware County Court. The jury found that Valk recklessly caused the death of his wife, Stephanie under circumstances of a depraved indifference, by injecting his wife with multiple doses of Methamphetamine and Fentanyl over a 24-hour period, in their Davenport home in August of 2022. Sentencing is set for March 25th, the Murder charge carries a maximum sentence of 25 years to life in state prison, The drug convictions carry the potential of a consecutive state prison sentence of up to 9 years.

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

A.M. NEWS TUESDAY 1-27-26

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

Gene Schmidt of Unadilla & his family will once again offer a free Christmas Dinner on Christmas Day at the Sidney Elks Lodge, Schmidt said that do need some volunteers to help with preparation, serving and cleaning up:

(Gene Schmidt 12-4-25)

Those who would like to volunteer or donate can call Gene at 607-610-4030.

The 14th Annual Holiday Craft Fair will be held by the Bainbridge Guilford Teacher's Association on Saturday from 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM in the BG High School Gym. Over 40 local crafter & artisans will participate, there will be raffle & door prizes, people are asked to bring a non-perishable food item, pet food or a hygiene product as a donation & to get a ticket for a door prize.

A.M. NEWS THURSDAY 12-4-25

33 year old Corey Green of Vestal was sentenced in U.S. District Court to 19 years in federal prison for his role in a drug trafficking conspiracy spanning the United States. Green admitted that he possessed, distributed, and conspired to distribute large quantities of fentanyl, heroin & Methamphetamine in and around Broome County, he also admitted to possessing 3 handguns and 2 AK-47 style weapons to further his drug-trafficking activities, while being prohibited from possessing firearms due to previous convictions, & conspiring to launder his drug-trafficking proceeds. Green was sentenced to a 19 year prison term, concurrent 3 and 5-year terms of post-release supervision, and a money judgment of over $185,000 of unrecovered proceeds from his drug trafficking. Co-conspirator Michael Jacobs of Endicott, was previously sentenced to 10 years and 10 months term of imprisonment & 5 years of post-release supervision.

P.M. NEWS MONDAY 11-10-25

State Police responded to a 3 car crash on I-88 in the town of Sidney Sunday night with 2 people with injuries. At about 5:25 pm a Trooper came upon a 3 vehicle crash on I-88 east near exit 9, where a Chevrolet Malibu operated by 58 year old Ray Saddlemire of Endicott and Dodge pick up towing a camper, driven by 68 year old David Benjamin of Tennessee collided, with the Benjamin vehicle going off the roadway and it overturned, the Saddlemire vehicle was partially in the left lane when it was struck by a Honda driven by 68 year old Gerald Hawkes of Ithaca. Saddlemire & Benjamin were taken to Wilson Hospital with non-life threatening injuries, Hawkes was not injured.

A.M. NEWS Monday 11-10-25

The Otsego County Sheriff’s Office received a report of a missing person in the Town of Morris Saturday, Deputies located the individual deceased on County Route 49 in the Town of Morris. The investigation remains ongoing in cooperation with the New York State Police and the Otsego County District Attorney’s Office, At this time, there is no threat to public safety.

Starting Today, Otsego County School District will participate in the Plastic Film Recycling challenge, to get plastics like grocery bags, bread bags & bubble wrap out of the waste stream, Kyle King of the Otsego County Solid waste Department explains:

(Kyle King 11-10-25)

King said that in recent years, the challenge has successfully recycled between 3 1/2 to 6 tons of the plastic film, from students at Otsego County Schools.

.M. NEWS TUESDAY 11-4-25

The Sidney Elks Lodge will host a Veterans Resource Fair tomorrow with a variety of services from area organizations, spokesperson Toni Gardner explains:

(Toni Gardner 11-4-25)

The event runs from 10:30 AM to 1:30 PM for all Veterans and their guest., at 104 River Street in Sidney, more information is available at 607-349-0041

The DCMO BOCES Board of Education reviewed a proposed capital building project plan at a recent meeting on a plan for renovation of the Robert W. Harrold Campus, the Alan Pole Campus in Norwich and the purchase of the former Masonville Elementary School to house programs for students. BOCES District Superintendent Michael Rullo told WCDO News of the main reasons for the projects:

(Michael Rullo 11-4-25)

Both the renovations and the purchase of the Masonville School site are subject to voter approval on February 3rd of next year, the BOCES buildings over more than 50 years old, with the most recent renovations approved in 2005. The projects would start in March of 2027 and conclude in 2028.

The City of Oneonta is accepting applications for a firefighter civil service exam to be held on January 10, 2026. The application deadline is December 10, Applications can be submitted in person or by mail to the Oneonta Civil Service Commission at City Hall at 258 Main Street and the starting salary for 2026 hires is $52,000. More information is available at oneonta.ny.us.

A.M. NEWS TUESDAY 11-4-25

Today is Election Day, with several important local races in the Tri County Region:

The Town of Sidney has several key races this year, Incumbents Town Supervisor Eric Wilson faces a challenge from Giffen Ott, 5 candidates are seeking 2 seats on the Sidney Town Board, Incumbents Bill Heath & Frank Selleck are seeking re-election, they face challengers Andrew Hinkley, Richard DeCola & Jesse Wakeman. The Sidney Town Justice position race feature incumbents Greg McCann against challenger Jennifer Ruling

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There are Town Supervisor races locally, in Guilford it is a rematch between incumbent Sue McIntyre against Gilda Ward, in Unadilla George Denys faces a late challenge from Write In Candidate Ed Gross, in the town of Colchester, the candidates are Robert Hafele & Arthur Merrill, in the town of Oneonta, the candidates are William Rivera Jr. & Brett Holleran

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The Cities of Norwich and Oneonta will have new Mayors, in Norwich the candidates are Robert Jeffrey & Jason Miller, in Oneonta the candidates are Luisa Montanti & Dan Butterman

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In the race for Delaware County Treasurer, Ronda Williams faces Carli Pinner.

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Polls are open from 6am to 9pm today, more information is available at your County Board of Elections Website.

State Police responded to I-88 in Afton for a crash involving a Department of Transportation vehicle and a pick-up truck. Troopers learned that a crew of 7 DOT workers were completing pothole repairs along the east bound lanes of I-88, an attenuator truck in the right lane warned drivers that there was roadwork ahead and that the right lane was closed, while a second attenuator truck was in the vicinity of the crew members. A Pick-up truck pulling an enclosed trailer with picnic tables crashed into rear of the second attenuator truck, The DOT worker that was operating the attenuator and the 20-year-old operator of the pick-up truck were both transported to Wilson Hospital for non-life-threatening injuries. Both eastbound lanes were closed during the removal of the vehicles. Troopers were assisted by Afton Fire, Bainbridge Fire, Sidney Ambulance.

Many local races are on the ballot for Election day tomorrow, in the Town of Sidney, 5 people are running for 2 seats on the town Board, Incumbents Bill Heath & Frank Selleck are looking to keep their spots on the Board, first, Bill Heath:

(Bill Heath 11-3-25)

Frank Selleck wants to continue on the board, to continue his tenure:

(Frank Selleck 11-3-25)

Republican Andy Hinkley feels that the Town of Sidney has not shared in prosperity in many years:

(Andy Hinkley 11-3-25)

Former Marine Rich DeCola told WCDO that he feels that collaboration between the Town & Village of Sidney has been lacking:

(Rich DeCola 11-3-25)

Jesse Wakeman is a young businessman who feels that partisan politics has prevented Sidney from moving forward in recruiting business and building housing:

(Jesse Wakeman 11-3-25)

Also, Giffen Ott is challenging Incumbent Eric Wilson for Sidney Town Supervisor.

The Bainbridge Guilford Central school District will host their 10th annual Veterans breakfast this Friday, BG Superintendent Tim Ryan explains:

(Tim Ryan 11-3-25)

RSVP's are requested by Wednesday by calling Kelly at 607-967-6321.

The Sidney American Legion announced that they will hold their annual Halloween Kids Party tomorrow at their facilities on Union Street, Spokesman Larry Halbert explains:

(Larry Halbert 10-31-25)

There will be snacks, a costume contest & they hope to make this an annual event.

The Chenango County Sheriff’s Office will participate with the Shop with a Sheriff event will take place on Saturday, December 6, in Norwich. Sheriff’s Deputies will take approximately 30 children from across Chenango County shopping for gifts for themselves and their families. Each child will be provided with $200 to spend, Children are selected for participation by officials from each school district in Chenango County. For more information, call 607-337-1705, or stop by 279 County Road 46 Norwich.

The Sidney Police Department has added K9 Chase, to the department, he is handled by Officer Royce Terry & he is a 1 year old Dutch Shepherd. Officer Terry told WCDO news about his new canine partner, and how the community support by area businesses, private donations, & the Sidney Central School district has been outstanding:

(Royce Terry 10-16-25)

K9 Chase replaces K9 Riggs who was retired as a police dog this month, but will continue to live with Officer Terry's family, the program has no cost to taxpayers and Chase will be ready for his position in February.

The Annual Sidney Veterans Memorial Park fundraising Bowling tournament will be held November 1, 2, 8, & 9th at East Main Lanes in Sidney this year, Park President Doug Barnard explains:

(Doug Barnard 10-16-25)

Barnard said that a fundraising raffle will also be held, with the winners of 3 prizes to be announced on November 9th, Money raised will go for the upkeep of the park on River Street, all interested bowlers and sponsors can contact East Main Lanes, more information is available on the Sidney Veterans Memorial Park Facebook page.

Sidney Village Library today announced that they are closed today due to unforeseen circumstances, they hope to reopen with normal hours & programs on Friday.

P.M. NEWS Thursday 10-2-25

Delaware County District Attorney Shawn Smith and Assistant DA Rachael Collins plan a countywide school outreach on sexual abuse with separate sessions for girls, boys, and parents; a team that includes Child Protective Services & the Department of Social Services, Safe Against Violence, and local law enforcement; Assistant DA Rachael Collins told WCDO News of the plans:

(Rachael Collins 10-2-25)

DA Smith told WCDO that the have received approval for going forward with the plan from County Authorities, any school interested in participating should call the DA's Office at 607-832-5452.

Delaware County District Attorney's office announced that 69 year old Sidney Wallace of Roxbury, pleaded guilty to 2 counts of Sexual Abuse in Delaware County Court. Wallace had previously been entrusted as a foster parent, he admitted that during the winter of 2023-24 he had inappropriate sexual contact with a child under the age of 13, and in 2023 he had inappropriate sexual contact with a different child under the age of 14. Wallace faces sentencing on November 18th.

An American Red Cross Blood Drive will be held today from 12:00 Noon until 5:00 PM at the Charlotte Valley Central School in Davenport, Make an appointment with the Red Cross Blood Donor App, got to redcrossblood.org or call 1-800-red cross.