WCDO Radio News

P.M. NEWS WEDNESDAY 12-23-20

The National Weather Service has issued a Flood Watch for Thursday into Friday, local Meteorologist Rich Townsend told WCDO News that flash flooding is a concern:

(Townsend 12-23-20)

The Flood Watch runs from 12:00 Noon Thursday to 12:00 Noon Friday, Christmas Day.

The Village of Sidney Police Reform and Reinvention Collaborative Committee will be getting surveys out to village residents soon, to get public input regarding the Sidney Police Department. Sheri Youngs is co-chair of the committee:

(Sheri Youngs 12-23-20)

After the public input is collected, the committee will draft a reform and reinvention plan & they will make changes as needed and submit the revised plan to the Village board for approval, in March the approved plan will then be submitted to New York State.

Delaware County Sheriff's Office arrested 40 year old Bonnie Tanner of Hobart for Cruelty to animals, after deputies discovered 2 deceased dogs & one malnourished dog in her apartment. The Investigation revealed that the dogs had been held in a single bedroom for the past 6 months and had not been provided adequate food, water or veterinary care. Tanner surrendered the malnourished dog to the Dog Control Officer and it was transported to the Delaware County Humane Society in Sidney for evaluation and treatment. Tanner was issued an appearance ticket for Stamford Town Court at a later date.

State Police arrested 34 year old Brandon MacLaury of Guilford & 25 year old Candace Cullipher of Oxford, who were illegally living at the Unadilla House Hotel. MacLaury and Cullipher were each charged with 3rd-degree burglary and criminal possession of a controlled substance,  MacLaury was also charged with criminal possession of a weapon.  They are accused of possessing Methamphetamines and a rifle, they were processed at the Troop C Sidney Headquarters and were released on appearance tickets for Unadilla Town Court on January 11th.

As the state deficit from the pandemic balloons to 15 billion dollars, the state announced the closure of 3 prisons and the displacement of about 900 corrections officers.  The state will close the Clinton Correctional facility in Dannemora, plus the Gowanda facility in Western New York and the Watertown facility in Jefferson County.

Governor Cuomo signed the New York Automatic Voter Registration Act of 2020 into law, requiring designated State agencies to establish an automatic voter registration system as proposed by the Governor in the State of the State address.  The new law designates the Department of Motor Vehicles and other State agencies that interact directly with New York residents to work with the State Board of Elections to integrate agency and voter registration applications.  Applicants will also be given the opportunity to choose a political party.

P.M. NEWS TUESDAY 12-15-20

The 1st big winter storm of the season is heading this way late Wednesday in Thursday, Local Meteorologist Rich Townsend explains:

(Townsend 12-15-20)

The National Weather service has a Winter Storm Watch in Place from 3:00 PM Wednesday through 10:00 AM Thursday.

The Town of Sidney will be holding a Special Meeting and receive public comments and act on the proposed Annexation request from the Village of Sidney for 2 parcels totaling 5.6 acres along County Route 4 in Sidney.  The meeting will take place on Monday December 28th at 7:00 p.m. at 44 Grand Street in Sidney.

The Cooperstown Central School District announced today that they will go to all remote learning until January 19th.  The district reported 1 new COVID 19 case, and a rising number of close contacts to that case, as the reason to go to remote learning.

The Otsego County Board of representatives approved of a measure to add to the staff of the County Health Department.  The Health Department continues to respond to the rising number of COVID 19 cases, at least 3 more health professionals will be added to the staff for the fight against the ongoing pandemic.

Delaware County Sheriff's deputies arrested 21 year old Jessica Winans of Unadilla after a report of a motor vehicle accident on River Road in the Town of Sidney.  Upon arrival Troopers observed that Winans exhibited signs of intoxication during their interview.   Winans was charged with DWI, operating a motor vehicle with a BAC of .08% or more, operating a motor vehicle while using a mobile phone, as well as other charges. Winans was released to appear in the Town of Sidney Court on a later date.

A.M. NEWS Thursday 12-10-20

Otsego County Department of Health had 21 new COVID 19 cases reported Wednesday, giving the county 1496 total confirmed cases,  143 active cases,  17 are hospitalized, there have been 8 deaths;  767 cases linked to SUNY Oneonta & 71 confirmed cases linked to Hartwick College

Barbara Ann Heegan will resign shortly from the Otsego County Chamber of Commerce, to be the next president and CEO of the Greenwood South Carolina Chamber of Commerce.   Heegan starts January 4th, the Chamber Board of Directors announced the appointment of Alan Rubin as Interim President & CEO effective Tuesday, December 29th.

1 person was killed in a 3 vehicle accident Saturday Night on State Route 235 in the town of Coventry.  26 year old Kyle Smith of Afton was attempting to pass a vehicle driven by 20 year old Austin Smith of Harpursville, Kyle Smith attempted to get back into his lane after observing a 3rd vehicle driven by 36 year old Dennis Robinson of Susquehanna Pennsylvania, Kyle Smith lost control, hit Austin Smith's vehicle, which then hit the Robinson Truck.  Austin Smith was pronounced dead at the scene, the investigation is continuing.

A traffic stop in the town of Norwich led the to the arrest of a man wanted for stealing a camper from Otsego County in October then abandoning it in Binghamton.   State Police arrested 46 year old Clint Payne of Beaver, Pennsylvania, for Grand Larceny, Criminal Possession of Stolen Property and Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance.  On November 20th,  Payne came to the State Police Norwich barracks inquiring about another matter, when he drove off a trooper observed that Payne’s vehicle had multiple vehicle and traffic infractions, he was stopped & the trooper discovered that Payne was wanted for Grand Larceny in Otsego County & he was accused of possessing of methamphetamine.  Payne was processed in Oneonta, the Otsego County Central Arraignment and Processing & Broome County Central Arraignment and Processing.

State Police arrested 26 year old John Flora of Windsor for allegedly burglarizing residences in the town of Windsor. An investigation by State Police BCI arrested Flora at his residence.  He was charged with multiple counts of 2nd degree Burglary & was taken to Broome County Central Arraignment and Processing.

Village of Sidney Police Reform and Reinvention Collaborative Committee has had 16 community members appointed, with Village residents, business owners, Religious leaders, Village Board members, Members of the Police Department, Delaware County Public Defender's office  and Delaware County District Attorney John Hubbard.  The committee has reviewed how the Sidney Police Department operates and with public input determines what changes, if any, need to be made.  Sidney mayor Andy Matviak told WCDO News about how they will get public input:

(Andy Matviak 12-7-20)

After the public input in the months of December and January, they will draft a reform and reinvention plan that will be shared with the public, in February the committee will make any needed changes & submit the revised plan to the Village board for approval. In March the approved plan will be submitted to New York State.

A.M. NEWS MONDAY 12-7-20

Attorneys for the Claudia Tenney and Anthony Brindisi campaigns filed new motions in State Supreme Court in Oswego regarding the ongoing ballot counts in the 22nd congressional district race.   55 recently-discovered Chenango County early voting ballots & about 2000 other disputed ballots will be ruled on by Justice Scott Delconte in State Supreme Court in Oswego this afternoon.

The Sidney Central School District has been notified that a student has tested positive for COVID-19. This person has not been on campus since Wednesday, December 2nd. The Delaware County Health Department is conducting the investigation and will notify anyone who they feel may have been exposed. The teachers and students impacted by the quarantine have been contacted, as they will transition to a remote learning environment.

Otsego County Department of Health announced that they had 14 COVID cases reported Saturday & 22 new cases Sunday.  Otsego County is up to 1418 total confirmed cases, 109 are active cases, 9 are hospitalized, and there have been 8 deaths since March.  Otsego County Department of Health is announcing a potential COVID 19 exposure at the American Legion 60 Main Street Cooperstown, from November 25th through November 30th, should monitor themselves for symptoms and get tested.

1 Small Business Saturday event will encompass more than 1 Saturday this year, for holiday shopping convenience locally. Sidney Chamber of Commerce President Teri Schunk explains:

(Teri Schunk 11-5-20)

Schunk said that they are still planning out the schedule for special events leading up to the holidays, and announcements will be made shortly.

Catholic Charities, other charities & the Village of Sidney are teaming up for another mass food distribution at the Sidney Fire Department Friday starting at 11:00 AM. Penny McKnight of Catholic Charities explains:

(Penny McKnight 11-5-20)

McKnight said that the September 17th Mass Food Distribution helped out about 1200 individuals from 500 families, with 12 tons of food given out.

The State Education Department announced the cancellation of the January Regents Examinations due to the ongoing coronavirus pandemic. The Education department also plans to submit a proposal at the December Board of Regents meeting to modify requirements for high school diplomas, so the Regents cancellation will not affect students about to graduate. The Education department canceled the June Regents earlier this year because of the pandemic, and modified high school diploma requirements for the Class of 2020.

A.M. NEWS THURSDAY 11-5-20

The State Health Department reported that 133,000 COVID 19 test results were reported Tuesday, yielding 2126 positives. Patient Hospitalization went up again by 26 to 1,253, the number of ICU patients increased to 284, 129 are on ventilators, there were 14 COVID Deaths.

Delaware County Sheriff's Deputies responded to a reported burglary in the Town of Walton, Deputies were informed by the victim that property stolen from a building located on County Highway 21 was found at the Cow Path Lane location. Deputies obtained and executed a search warrant and recovered the stolen property. Deputies arrested 40 year-old Robert Smith and 35 year-old Terriann Connolly, both of Walton, for 3rd degree burglary & Petty larceny. Smith was also charged with criminal possession of stolen property; both were released on appearance tickets directing them to appear in the Town of Walton Court on a later date.

P.M. NEWS TUESDAY 10-27-20

The Broome County Sheriff's Office reported that 2 people were indicted following an investigation into the death of a 23-year-old Kayla Kunkel, who was on the autism spectrum. 56-year-old Renee Kunkel and 61-year-old Edward Kunkel were indicted for 2nd degree manslaughter, Endangering the welfare of an incompetent or physically disabled person, & endangering the welfare of a child. Deputies & EMS responded to 40 Theresa Blvd in the town of Chenango for the report of a person not breathing, they found Kayla Kunkel and performed CPR, before she was taken to Wilson Hospital, where she later died. The investigation determined Kayla Kunkel was not capable of caring for herself and her death was from "inadequate guardianship.” 2 other children were living in the residence, in unsafe and unsanitary conditions.

The Chenango County Board of Elections announced that a hacker attack against their computer system has raised concerns that some emailed absentee ballot applications may not be processed. The Chenango Board of Elections has advised anyone who emailed an absentee ballot application after Oct. 15 to call 337-1760 to verify that it had been received. The Computers are being repaired & the State Board of elections believes the issue will not affect the election results.

The Sidney Police Department responded to a fight in progress call on Smith Street in the Village of Sidney. Officers located the victim lying on the sidewalk being tended to by local residents. Officers located 23 year old John Rathbun of Sidney at the scene; he was arrested and charged with harassment, aggravated harassment, criminal mischief & Criminal obstruction of breathing or blood circulation. Rathbun was arraigned in the Village of Sidney Court where a temporary order of protection was issued on behalf of the victim, he was released on an appearance ticket, At 7:50 PM Monday, Rathbun was found to be in violation of the temporary order of protection, he was then charged with Criminal contempt, he was arraigned virtually, & was again released & was ordered to appear in court at a later date.

Delaware County Sheriff's Deputies performed a traffic-stop on River Street in the Village of Sidney last Thursday night; they arrested 33 year old Carmine DeClemente of Sidney for unlawful possession of marijuana & operating a vehicle without a headlight. Deputies seized an undisclosed amount of marijuana from the vehicle; DeClemente was issued an appearance ticket for the Village of Sidney Court on a later date to answer the charges.

Commerce Chenango's annual fundraising Auction will be a virtual one this year, starting on November 6th. Commerce Chenango President & CEO Kerri Green explains:

(Kerri Green 10-27-20)

The live Auction will be held November 12th at 7:00 PM, at 32auctions.com/commerce Chenango.

The Village of Bainbridge announced their Halloween schedule this Saturday, Village Mayor Phil Wade explains:

(Phil Wade 10-27-20)

Mayor Wade suggested that trick or treaters avoid State Route 206 this year due to the construction project.

A.M. NEWS Tuesday 10-27-20

Nicolas Meridy was sentenced to 22 years to life in prison in Otsego County Court Monday. Meridy was 1 of 4 people charged in the death of 53 year old Kenneth Robinson of Worcester, he pleaded guilty to 2nd-degree murder in August, in a plea bargain deal. 53-year-old Kenneth Robinson was shot and killed while being robbed in his Worcester home in October of 2019, his home was set on fire, 1 of those arrested was Robinson's son, Dylan Robinson, others arrested were 15-year-old Anias Soto, 16-year-old Alexander Borgreen for murder and burglary, 16-year-old Alexi Lottermann was charged with burglary.

Delaware County Sheriff's Deputies responded Thursday to a disturbance at the Masonville Mirabito convenience store. 67-year-old Edward Sherman of Masonville was operating a motor vehicle while his driving privileges were revoked & that he had been operating an unregistered, uninspected, and uninsured motor vehicle. Sherman was charged with aggravated unlicensed operation of a motor vehicle, among other similar charges, he was released and directed to appear in the Town of Masonville Court on a later date.

Otsego County Department of Health reported Monday that they had 6 more cases of COVID 19. Since October 1, 2020 84 cases have been reported, 35 have been in college students & 49 in county residents. Of those 49 cases 25 have been linked to 2 separate weddings. 7 cases have been associated with the first wedding and 18 cases with the most recent wedding. Otsego County has had 981 total confirmed cases, there are 39 active cases, 1 hospitalization, 7 deaths, 751 cases are linked to SUNY Oneonta, and 30 confirmed cases in Hartwick College students.

Delaware County reported 2 new cases of COVID-19 Monday & 1 death. The number of active cases is now 15. To date there have been 157 confirmed positive cases, with 119 people under mandatory quarantine, 11 people are at home and 4 people are in a hospital, 9 people have died and 133 have fully recovered.

Delaware County Sheriff's Deputies investigated a head-on collision in the Town of Franklin on Wednesday afternoon.  Deputies reported that at about 5:30 PM, they responded with EMT's to the accident on County Highway 21 near Leland Hull Road.  Deputies determined that a vehicle driven by 50 year-old Jeffrey Lewis of Walton crossed over the center line and collided with a vehicle driven by 62 year-old Wayne Knorr of Laurens, causing the Knorr vehicle to overturn several times.  Knorr was taken to Fox Hospital in Oneonta for a head injury; Lewis was taken to Delaware Valley Hospital also for the treatment of a head injury.  Lewis’ driving privileges were revoked as a result of previous alcohol related offense, he was charged with aggravated unlicensed operation of a motor vehicle, operation of a motor vehicle without an ignition interlock device, failure to keep right and unlicensed operation of a motor vehicle, he was released to appear in Town of Franklin court at a later date.  Alcohol was not a contributing factor in this accident.

The Prospect Hill Cemetery Association Board is looking to receive a grant to help with repairs to the wall near East Main Street, they have decided to apply to Southern Tier Tuesdays.com and see if we could a $2,000 Grant.  Association President Debra Tompkins-Cornett explains how people can help by voting once a day for 5 days, starting this Sunday:

(Debra Tompkins-Cornett 10-23-20)

Prospect Hill Cemetery has been nominated along with 11 others for the Grant; people can go to southerntiertuesdays.com to vote beginning this Sunday.

Governor Cuomo announced $357 million in funding for the renewal of 135 paving projects throughout the State. Locally $42.4 million will go for rehabilitating I-88 from exit 17 Colliersville/Cooperstown Junction to exit 18 Schenevus in Otsego County, $3.2 million will be used to resurface Route 8 from the Village of Sidney Line to south of the intersection of Routes 37 and 51 in Mount Upton & $4.5 million to resurface Route 206 from Route 27 in the Hamlet of Trout Creek to the Village of Walton Line.

Early voting begins tomorrow around the region.  Area Counties have different times & locations for early voting from tomorrow through November 1st, contact your county Board of Elections for specific dates & times.

A.M. NEWS FRIDAY 10-23-20

Broome County Health Department announced that they have 103 new COVID 19 cases and 55 recoveries, the county's active cases up to 646.  There was another death reported, bringing the county's death count up to 89, the number of people hospitalized went up by 5 to a total of 19.  The total number of cases is up to 3060, 2325 have recovered.  The County has a 3.7% positivity rate; it's over 9% in the state designated "Yellow" zone.

The Bainbridge Chamber of Commerce will hold their "Commitment to Community" Annual Dinner Saturday Night.  The guest Speakers will be Kerri Green of Commerce Chenango & Assemblyman Cliff Crouch, at Club 55 on Union Street in Sidney.  The Chamber will honor their Citizen of the Year award winner Roy Nabinger, their Business of the Year; My Home Gym, The Business of Distinction award goes to John’s Garage and the Service Organization of the Year is The Bainbridge Lion’s Club.

The Baristacrats Coffee Bar of Afton is teaming up with Gavin's Pizzeria on Division Street in Sidney on Sunday; they will be donating a percentage of the day's sales to the Afton VFW Building Project.  Baristacrats owner Alexis Van Buren explains:

(Alexis Van Buren 10-23-20)

Van Buren said that The Afton VFW building needs renovations; the building was built in 1898.  Contributions can also be mailed to P.O. Box 238, Afton NY 13730.  The combined effort will be held at Gavin’s Sunday from 12:00 Noon to 6:00 PM.

P.M. NEWS FRIDAY 10-16-20

The Delaware County Board of Elections reminds area voters that Early Voting is available prior to the November 3rd General Election. Early voting for Delaware County registered voters will take place at the Board of Elections Office at 3 Gallant Avenue in Delhi, at various times starting on Saturday October 24th through Sunday November 2nd. The Board of Elections Office is accessible to voters with disabilities; more information is available at 832-5321.

The Board of Directors of the Community Foundation for South Central New York is pleased to announce the Racial Justice and Equity Fund at the Community Foundation is now accepting grant inquiries. Amounts to be distributed from the Fund will provide support for projects, programs, and organizations that build community dialogue, increase the capacity of Black-led organizations supporting historically underserved communities, promote racial justice and equity, and fund projects that counteract systemic racism. The Deadline for applications is November 15th; more information is available at donorswhocare.org.

The Circle Drive Alliance Church in Sidney is participating in the Samaritan's Purse Operation Christmas Child "ShoeBox" program, where people can donate items for children in need around the world. Local Spokesperson Marie Cole told WCDO News that they will participate using COVID guidelines starting this weekend:

(Marie Cole 10-16-20)

People can pick up the boxes at various times starting Monday, through Wednesday, after they are returned they can be dropped off at Circle Drive Alliance church where they will be trucked to Charlotte North Carolina for distribution where needed. More information about the programs is available at samaritanspurse.org.

The Sidney Chamber of Commerce is having their Fall Festival Downtown tomorrow, Sidney Chamber President Teri Schunk explains:

(Teri Schunk 10-16-20)

Schunk said that all of the vendor slots were filled up to Health Department Guidelines, plus all in attendance must use masks & be socially distanced, more information is available at 561-2642.

State Police and Broome County Sheriff’s Department are investigating the death of an unidentified 47 year old Endicott man who was struck by a train in the Town of Union. The incident occurred at 11:45 AM Thursday near the Hooper Road overpass in Endwell. Police do not suspect foul play, the investigation is continuing.

Village Elections were held Tuesday around the state.  Many area candidates ran unopposed, in the Unadilla mayor's race; write in candidate Jack Insinga defeated longtime incumbent mayor Dave Welch 36 to 29.  Trustees’ seats were won by Paul Baldwin & Joshua Palmer.  In Afton, incumbent Mayor Janice Nickerson won over write in candidate Mellissa Mathews, village board member Robert Humphrey defeated write in candidate Alexis VanBuren.

Volunteers are needed to assist with the Catholic Charities community food distribution Thursday in Sidney.  Those who would like to volunteer are advised to Carol Allen, at 563-8065, they should arrive to the Sidney Fire department site on River Street by 8:30 AM Thursday, and the food giveaway begins at 10:00 AM.

A.M. NEWS WEDNESDAY 9-16-20

Governor Cuomo announced that 6 states have been removed from the travel advisory requiring 14 day quarantines after arriving in New York State.  The Governor said that California, Hawaii, Maryland, Minnesota, Nevada and Ohio Are Removed.  The Full list is at coronavirus.health.ny.gov.

State Police at Oneonta arrested 26 year old Eric Meade of Oneonta for Petit Larceny, Criminal Possession of Stolen Property and Criminal Trespass, following a complaint of a theft in progress on South Side Drive in the town of Oneonta Sunday morning.  Troopers spotted Meade, who was in possession of coins that were allegedly stolen out of unlocked cars on South Side Drive.  The investigation also revealed he had also taken items from an unlocked vehicle on Glen Drive.  Meade was processed then released on appearance tickets to the town of Oneonta court on October 20, 2020.

State Police arrested 48 year old Chrisanthon Santana of Bronx on September 2nd for Criminal Possession of marihuana, after a trooper monitoring traffic on I-88 in the town of Sidney observed a vehicle make several violations. A traffic stop was initiated on State Route 8, which resulted in the discovery of over 28 pounds of marihuana. Santana was virtually arraigned and released; he faces court action in the town of Sidney court on September 24th.

The Town of Masonville Board meeting that was postponed last week has been rescheduled. The meeting will be held this evening at 7:00 PM at the Masonville town Building.

State Police arrested 34 year old Robert Youngblood of South New Berlin, for Over-driving, Torturing and Injuring Animals, Criminal Contempt, Obstructing Governmental Administration and Making a False Statement. On August 16, a trooper was dispatched to Dunhams Cross Road in the town of Butternuts, where they discovered that a 6-month old pig had been shot multiple times with a pellet gun. The pig was alive but in obvious distress. Youngblood was additionally charged with violating an order of protection while he was in the trooper’s presence. Youngblood was issued appearance tickets to the town of Butternuts court for September 24th & to the town of Unadilla court for September 21st.

Delaware County Sheriff's Department arrested 6 people for a seasonal residence burglary in the Town of Andes On August 18th. Deputies responded to a seasonal home located on Shaver Hollow Road in the Town of Andes where the home owner reported discovering forced entry into his residence and the theft of a garden tractor. Deputies discovered the stolen tractor dismantled outside of a neighboring residence, they arrested 4 youths, ages 11 to 14 for 1 count each of burglary, criminal mischief & grand larceny, a 17 -year old was charged with criminal possession of stolen property, their grandmother, 61 year-old Kathleen Shaffer of Andes was charged with endangering the welfare of a child and criminal possession of stolen property. All face court action at a later date.

Gyms & Fitness Centers around the state are re-opening with many safety protocols in place, Mike Banks of My Home Gym on State Route 7 between Sidney & Bainbridge told WCDO News what they are doing to keep everyone safe:

(Mike Banks 9-2-20)

Gyms & Fitness Centers were among the last businesses to re-opening in New York State after getting shutdown earlier in the year when the COVID 19 pandemic hit.

The Delaware County Sheriff's Department investigated a domestic dispute in the Town of Stamford Saturday, which resulted in the arrest of 66 Wayne Johnson of Stamford for Menacing, unlawful imprisonment, & endangering the welfare of a child. Upon arrival, Deputies learned that Johnson was intoxicated & had threatened to use a firearm to hurt a number of people in the residence, and he had also blocked all points of entry into the house. Johnson was virtually arraigned, & was issued appearance tickets for Stamford court at a later date, and order of protection was issued for the victims.

The Town of Masonville announced that tonight's board meeting, scheduled for 7:00 PM has been cancelled, no rescheduled date was announced.

A.M. NEWS WEDNESDAY 9-2-20

Otsego County Department of Health continues to investigate a large outbreak of Coronavirus involving SUNY Oneonta students, with 53 new cases were reported Tuesday, 50 of the cases were in SUNY Oneonta students, 2 cases in the community and 1 case in a Hartwick College student. SUNY Oneonta reportedly had 295 cases on Tuesday afternoon, the county now has 357 total confirmed cases, there are No hospitalizations.

The Federal EPA is planning to complete the clean-up of the GCL Tie & Treating plant in Sidney that closed over 26 years ago, and was included on the Federal Superfund site in 1994.  The plant was contaminated by creosote, which was used to treat railroad ties, the owners abandoned the business & the creosote contaminated groundwater.  The EPA will hold an online public meeting September 3rd at 7 PM at Eventbrite.com.

Governor Cuomo issued an executive order that requires county boards of elections to be ready for the changes in voting in the November elections.  The executive order requires county boards of elections to Send a mailing outlining all deadlines for voters by Tuesday, September 8, Send staffing plans and needs to the State Board of Elections by September 20th so they can assist them in ensuring adequate coverage, make sure that boards are ready to count votes and reconcile affidavit and absentee ballots by 48 hours after elections & Provide an option for New Yorkers to vote absentee in village, town and special district elections.

The National Baseball Hall of Fame & Museum announced that the Inductees Exhibit for Class of 2020 is now on Display.  Career stories, artifacts photos & documents regarding inductees Derek Jeter, Marvin Miller, Ted Simmons and Larry Walker is now open and will remain on display through 2021 on the Museum’s third floor.  The Class of 2020 will be inducted along with any elected members of the Class of 2021, on July 25 2021 in Cooperstown.  More information is available at baseballhall.org/reopening.

The Sidney Town Board Meeting will be held on August 13th at 7:00 in person at 44 Grand Street. There will be limit seating for social distance.  Is will also be on Zoom and information will be posted on the Town Webpage and on the Town Facebook page in the near future.

State Senator Jim Seward announced that Diane Munro of Roxbury has been confirmed by the state senate as a member of the Olympic Regional Development Authority.  Munro has held positions as a teacher, principal, and superintendent, & while a Sidney resident Years ago, she was a co-founder of Sidney Area Youth Advocate Program, and the Tri-Town Boys and Girls Club, she currently serves the board of directors of the Alcohol and Drug Abuse Council of Delaware County, and is a member of the Delaware County and Central Catskills Chamber of Commerce, the appointment runs through June 19, 2024.

Governor Cuomo stated Thursday that New York State has one license for bars & restaurants, and people are misunderstanding the concept of outdoor dining;

(Cuomo food bars)

The State Police & State Liquor Authority will look into as many cases as they can of violating of the state laws, local police agencies are also being asked to enforce the law.

The State DOT is advising motorists that State Route 7 between Chase Street and Mill Street in the Town of Worcester, will be closed until approximately September 1 to replace the large culvert over West Hill Road Creek. Through traffic is being diverted to I-88 from exit 18 (Schenevus) to exit 19 (Worcester). Detours are posted. Motorists are urged to slow down and drive responsibly in work zones. Fines are doubled for speeding in a work zone.

Delaware County Sheriff's Department announced that a Stamford man succumbed to a cardiac emergency while driving in the Town of Kortright Wednesday afternoon.  At approximately 12:20 PM Wednesday Deputies & EMS responded to a report of a vehicle off the roadway, upon their arrival, emergency medical personnel discovered the driver 67 year old John Mason of Stamford was in cardiac arrest and began lifesaving treatment, however, efforts to resuscitate Mason were unsuccessful.  The Investigation determined that Mason suffered a fatal cardiac related emergency while driving and drifted off the roadway and into a ditch.

U.S. Senator Charles Schumer was in Cooperstown yesterday.  Schumer is urging the President to send more federal aid to municipalities; Otsego County officials reported that they lost an estimate 15 million dollars in revenue because of the shutdown from the Coronavirus pandemic.

The Oneonta Common Council approved of a measure to form the Community Advisory Board, to review the Oneonta Police Departments' policies & procedures.  All municipalities in New York State with a police force are mandated to hold public meetings to reform police practices by April 1st of next year.

The next Sidney Town Board Meeting will be held live at 7:00 pm tonight at 44 Grand Street in Sidney.  Social distancing and masks will be required for entrance. Public attendance is limited to 30% of the meeting room capacity and seats are available until that capacity is reached.  Arrangements will also be in place to view the Meeting on Zoom. A link will be provided on the Town website.

The State DOT is advising motorists the ramp from State Route 7 Northbound to I-88 Eastbound in the town of Dickinson will close today through July 23rd for repairs, milling and paving. Motorists should allow extra travel time to follow posted detours.  Motorists are urged to slow down and drive responsibly in work zones.

Sidney Town Supervisor Gene Pigford announced that the next Sidney Town Board Meeting will be held live at 7:00 pm this Thursday, July 9th at 44 Grand Street in Sidney.  Social distancing and masks will be required for entrance. Public attendance is limited to 30% of the meeting room capacity and seats are available until that capacity is reached.  Arrangements will also be in place to view the Meeting via Zoom. A link will be provided on the Town website.

The free concert tonight sponsored by the Bainbridge Community Foundation at General Clinton Park featuring Fetish Lane has been cancelled by order of the Chenango County Health department.  The Foundation & Chenango County officials are working a viable solution for future concerts in this year's Summer Series.

Congressman Anthony Brindisi will Host a Telephone Town Hall Today at 5:00 p.m.   Constituents are encouraged to RSVP at brindisi.house.gov/live to receive the call or dial-in at 5:00 p.m. to 855-614-0159

Sidney Center residents are advised that a follow up Re-Zoning meeting with Town Supervisor Gene Pigford will be held Thursday, July 16th, @ 6:30PM @ the firemen's field in downtown Sidney Center. The meeting was arranged following a meeting last week on July 1st, where Sidney Center residents wanted more information regarding the potential for rezoning a sizable portion of the hamlet.

State Police continue their crackdown on people bringing illegal fireworks into the state; Troopers arrested 2 people Tuesday for Unlawfully Dealing with Fireworks.  A trooper initiated a traffic stop on I-81 in the town of Kirkwood, after he observed a driver commit a traffic violation. An investigation resulted in the discovery of illegal fireworks totaling over $500.  Arrested were 31 year old Xavier Santos of Syracuse and 34 year old Aristides Lopez-Robles of Syracuse, Both men were released on appearance tickets to the town of Kirkwood court on July 15th.

State Police arrested 25 year old Casey Jean of Tully for Unlawfully Dealing with Fireworks, after a trooper initiated a traffic stop on Interstate 81 in the town of Dickinson.  An investigation yielded numerous illegal fireworks in Jean’s possession totaling over $2,700 dollars.   He was arrested, processed then released on an appearance ticket to the town of Dickinson court on July 14, 2020.

Delaware County Sheriff Deputies arrested 40 year old Jennifer Briggs of Stamford Tuesday on an Arrest Warrant issued by the Town of Stamford Court following a domestic dispute last week.  Deputies arrested Briggs for harassment and criminal mischief for allegedly striking the victim and causing the victim to strike and break a window.  Briggs was released on an appearance ticket for Town of Stamford Court on a later date.

The Sidney Village offices are now open regular hours, Monday through Friday from 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM.  Village Board Meetings are now open to the public, masks must be worn.  The Village also announced that the playground at Keith Clark Park is open, it will be disinfected 3 times a day, a schedule is posted at the playground, all other playgrounds around the village are still closed.

The Sidney Library is now open by appointment only, at 563-1200, the Masonville & Sidney Center Libraries will remain closed until July 7th.

The Board of Directors for the Delaware County Fair announced today, that the Annual County Fair in Walton is cancelled this year, spokesman Jason Craig explains:

(Jason Craig 6-30-20)

Craig said that they are going forward to plan for the 2021 Delaware County Fair in Walton in August of 2021.

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.

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

Emergency crews responded to a Tractor Trailer crash this morning near Exit 2 of I-88 in the town of Fenton.  A fuel spill was reported from the early morning accident, no injuries were reported.

The Sidney Central School District announced that 5 days of breakfast & lunches will go to all students 18 and under & will be distributed weekly on Wednesdays, July 1st through August 26th, at the Masonville Library from 9:00 to 10:00 AM; Sidney Center Fire House from 10:15 to 11:15 AM, Meadow Valley Park from 9:00 to 11:00 AM; Circle Drive Apartments from 11:30 AM to 12:30 PM & the Sidney Junior/Senior High School from 8:00 AM to 12:30 PM.  More information is available at 563-2135, extension 4264.

Joe Angelino is a big winner in the 122 State Assembly Republican Primary yesterday, winning with 75% of the vote, he will face Democrat Richard Shaw in the November General Election.  In Other races, Joe Biden wins the state Democratic Party Nomination for President, Claudia Tenney beats George Phillips for the Republican Nomination to take on incumbent Democratic Congressman Anthony Brindisi in the fall, Tenney lost the seat to Brindisi 2 years ago. The results do not include absentee ballots.

The Town of Guilford Board will hold a special meeting on Zoom Tonight at 7:00 PM.  The Town Attorney & the Board will be discussing the proposed Certificate Conditions on the High Bridge Wind farm LLC proposal, more information is available at 895-9966.

The New York State Workers Compensation Board has received many questions about how the Coronavirus relates to Workers Comp claims, for both the employer & employee.  The latest information has been posted at wcb.ny.gov/covid-19.

Delaware County Sheriff’s Office arrested 31 year old Mario Darder of Hancock following an investigation into a domestic dispute.  Deputies located an individual walking away from the scene of the reported domestic dispute, Darder possessed methamphetamine and heroin, he was charged with criminal possession of a controlled substance, he was released on an appearance ticket and directed to appear in the Tompkins Town Court on a later date.

There will be a Community Partnership Mass Food Distribution Today at the Sidney Fire Station on River Street at 11:00 AM.  Arriving early will cause traffic problems & larger crowds, so please arrive at 11:00 & Stay in your vehicle.

The Sidney Central School District announced that they will be hosting a car parade for the graduating class of 2020 on Friday June 12th, beginning at 11:00 AM at the Junior Senior High school.  The Parade will go down West Main Street to Main, River Union Street, onto Pearl Street & back to the School grounds for a drive through Barbecue.

A traffic-stop by Delaware County Sheriff's Deputies on May 30th resulted in 24 year old Garrett Gascon of Sidney being arrested on State Highway 10 in the Town of Walton.  Deputies discovered that Gascon's driving privileges were suspended for failure to answer summonses in Chenango and Otsego Counties & he was charged with aggravated unlicensed operation of a motor vehicle and speeding & will appear in the Walton Town Court on a later date.

Delaware County Sheriff Deputies arrested 68 year old Thomas Lima of Franklin after they responded to a harassment complaint in the Town of Franklin on May 27th.  Lima allegedly made contact with, and harassed, a protected party for whom an order of protection was issued by the Delaware County Family Court, Deputies arrested Lima for harassment & criminal contempt, during processing at the Delaware County Sheriff's Office, Lima is accused of spitting on and attempting to trip Deputies, he was additionally charged with obstructing governmental administration & attempted assault on a police officer.  Lima was arraigned & was remanded to the Delaware County Correctional Facility on cash bail, pending future appearances in the Town of Franklin and Delhi Courts.

The Walton Central School District Board of education announced that they have appointed Michael MacDonald as the new Superintendent, starting on July 1st.  MacDonald will succeed interim Superintendent Larry Thomas; MacDonald started his education career as a Special Ed Teacher in Walton in the early 90's

Cornell Cooperative Extension, Catholic Charities, the SUNY Morrisville Norwich Campus will be holding dairy and ag product drive-thru event today at the Chenango County Fairgrounds.  A variety of dairy products, including Chobani yogurt, will be donated to those families in-need beginning at 2:00 p.m. until supplies are gone.

The Broome County Agricultural Society announced today that they have decided to cancel the 2020 Broome County Fair.   The Board of Directors aims to resume the Broome County Fair, July 27 to August 1, 2021.

The Bainbridge Guilford central School District will hold their public budget hearing at 6:00 PM tonight through Zoom, BG Superintendent Tim Ryan comments:

(Tim Ryan 6-2-20)

The Proposed budget is 20.1 Million dollars; the tax levy increase is 2.4%.

The Town of Sidney announced that there will be a Round Table Zoning Law meeting on Tuesday June 9th starting at 6:30 on Zoom! Information is available at the Town of Sidney Website.  More information is available at 561-2334.

Delaware County Sheriff's Deputies responded to a domestic dispute in the Town of Walton on April 7th,  during their investigation, they learned that 32 year-old Katie Komosinski, of Walton, endangered a young child by driving her car with the child clinging to the side of the vehicle.  Upon completion of their investigation, Sheriff’s Deputies forwarded the complaint to the Walton Town Court which issued a Criminal Summons last week, Deputies located and arrested Komosinski Sunday at her residence and served the criminal summons, she will appear in the Walton Town Court on a later date.

The Village of Unadilla Board meeting will be held on Tonight at 6:30 PM at the firehouse at 77 Clifton Street, the meeting is not open to the public at this time but can be attended via Zoom.

Congressman Anthony Brindisi will address and take questions from AARP members on the coronavirus pandemic. During the town hall, AARP will poll participants on their top information needs in relation to COVID-19.  The event takes place this afternoon from 2:10 to 3:10 PM, by call-in, listen-only at 877-229-8493 with PIN Number 18948 or by Facebook live stream at facebook.com/AARPNY

An American Red Cross Blood Drive is being held today at the Sidney American Legion.  The Blood drive will be held from 2:00 to 6:00 PM all blood types are needed, appointments are requested at redcrossblood.org or 1-800 Red Cross.

In the coming weeks the Village of Afton will be sending out income surveys to area residents, to determine if the village qualifies for funding programs.  More information is available at the Town of Afton website.

A traffic-stop by Delaware County Sheriff's Deputies in East Meredith on Monday evening, led to the arrest of 25 year old Devyn Clum of Bloomville.  Deputies stopped a vehicle in East Meredith after observing the driver fail to stop at a stop sign, Deputies charged Clum with failure to stop at a stop sign, operating a motor vehicle with broken glass, & aggravated unlicensed operation of a motor vehicle, and he was released & will appear in the Town of Meredith Court at a later date.

Sidney Town Board is holding the Town Board Meeting today at 7:00 on Zoom.  More Information is on the Town of Sidney Facebook page and the web-site

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.

State Police and the Unadilla Emergency Squad responded Monday evening to Ben McCumber Road in the town of Unadilla for a report of an accidental death.   The investigation revealed that 80 year old William Marszal of Unadilla was clearing trees on the property & while pulling a downed tree, the downed tree uprooted another tree that then fell on Marszal causing head trauma.  Marszal was pronounced deceased on scene.

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.

The Delaware County Chamber of Commerce announced a Town Hall Meeting with Congressman Antonio Delgado today exclusively for Delaware County Business Owners.  The meeting will be held through Zoom at 1:15 pm, more information is available at 746-2281 or Delawarecounty.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.

The American Red Cross has blood drives scheduled in the coming weeks, 1 in Oxford at the American Legion on South Washington Street on Saturday from 7:30 AM to 12:30 PM, also in Oneonta on Saturday at the Main Street Baptist Church from 8:00 AM to 1:00 PM.  There will also be blood drives on Wednesday May 13th 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 Town Board is holding the Town Board Meeting on Thursday May 14th at 7:00 on Zoom.  More Information is on the Town of Sidney Facebook page and the web-site

My Home Gym is sponsoring the Wipe Out Covid-19 Virtual 5K Walk/Run, Which is a cooperative fundraising effort May 23rd through May 30th.  Sidney Chamber of Commerce President Teri Schunk explains:

(Teri Schunk 5-5-20)

People can register at runsignup.com/MyHomeGym2020 or call Anna Banks at 320-4024, Registration ends May 12th at 11:59pm.

The Afton Village board announced that their next village board meeting will be held on Monday May 11th at 7:00 PM.  Due to the Coronavirus, the monthly meeting will be held through zoom, & all information will be placed on the Town of Afton website.

Delaware County Sheriff's Deputies arrested 44 year old Christopher Merwin of Walton for disseminating “revenge porn” early last month.   Deputies responded to a harassment complaint in the Town of Hamden involving the alleged non-consensual sharing and dissemination of an intimate image depicting the victim, Merwin is accused of sending the image of the victim to a 3rd party by electronic means. Merwin was picked up Friday on an arrest warrant issued by the Delaware County Court he was charged him with unlawful dissemination or publication of an intimate image, he was arraigned by teleconference& he was served with a temporary order of protection.

Governor Cuomo issued an executive order delaying school board elections and budget votes statewide until June 9, 2020. The school board elections and budget votes will all be conducted by mail and all qualified voters will be sent an absentee ballot with return postage paid. The Executive Order also delays local special district and village elections until September 15, 2020.

Sidney Central School District Superintendent Eben Bullock asks that as the temperatures start to increase, each family receiving a bulk food delivery should leave a cooler or container that can keep food cool at your door, the food will be placed inside of the container at delivery. For those interested in signing up for the bulk food delivery, contact the school at 561-7703.  Bullock also asks that district parents fill out the online survey, a link can be found on the school district website, the district's Facebook page and twitter account.

The Village of Sidney announced that May 4th "SPRING CLEAN UP"  Curbside pickup of bagged leaves, bagged lawn debris and brush must be out by Monday May 4th. Due to Covid-19 and safety, there will be no drop-off of electronics, appliances, metal and tires this year. Village residents may take electronics, appliances, metal and tires, free of charge (year round) to the Delaware County Solid Waste Management Center located at 32230 State Hwy 10 Walton, and they need make an appointment for drop off at 865-5805.

Delaware County Sheriff's Deputies arrested 38 year old Dennis Lafferty of Unadilla for violating an order of protection earlier this month.  Deputies received a complaint from an Otsego County domestic violence victim earlier this month, reporting receiving a phone call from the Delaware County Correctional Facility where the victim’s alleged abuser was being housed for the Otsego County Sheriff’s Office, Lafferty allegedly violated the terms of an order of protection issued by the Hartwick Town Court last November, by making calls to the protected party following his incarceration on April 13th.  Lafferty was charged with 4 counts of criminal contempt & he remains incarcerated in the Delaware County Correctional Facility, pending a court appearance in the Town of Delhi Court on a later date.

The Annual Re-dedication Ceremony at the Sidney Veterans Memorial Park originally scheduled for May 23rd has been canceled for this year.  Also the June 7th Annual Sidney Veterans Memorial Park Association Golf Tournament has been canceled for this year, due to the COVID 19 pandemic.

The National Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum announced today that its Board of Directors has voted unanimously to cancel 2020 Hall of Fame Induction Weekend events as a result of health and safety concerns associated with the COVID-19 pandemic.  The Class of 2020 – consisting of Derek Jeter, Marvin Miller, Ted Simmons and Larry Walker – will be inducted on Sunday, July 25, 2021, in Cooperstown, alongside any new members elected as part of the Hall of Fame Class of 2021.

Congressman Anthony Brindisi will hold Telephone Town Hall this afternoon at 5:00 PM regarding the latest developments on the coronavirus pandemic.  To receive a call, go to brindisi.house.gov/live or call (315) 732-0713.

The Tri Town Coalition on Substance Abuse Prevention will their next meeting today at 6:00 PM through Zoom.   Today's Presenter is Amanda Decker of the Alcohol and Drug Abuse Council of Delaware County,  more information is available at 437-4274 or 265-9273.