WCDO Radio News

Governor Kathy Hochul announced $23 million in grants to help improve water quality across New York State while mitigating the effects of climate change. Locally, the Village of Sidney will receive $480,000 to install water meters equipped with advanced meter reading technology, the Village of Walton will get $30,000 to identify sources of inflow and infiltration, evaluate alternatives, and recommend improvements to the wastewater collection system.

Delaware County Department of Emergency Services has received a shipment of disposable masks from the State and starting today, they are being distributed to a variety of locations in the County. The masks can be found in Delhi at the Price Chopper & County Office Buildings, in Walton at the Big M & Delaware County Mental Health Facility, in Deposit at the Big M & DMV office & in Sidney at the Price Chopper, Great American and DMV. The masks will be free to anyone in the community and will be on a first come first serve basis.

New York’s ban on single-use Styrofoam food and beverage containers, as well as ‘packing peanuts,’ takes effect Saturday. The new law allows a civil penalty of up to $250 for the first offense, $500 for the second in the same calendar year, and $1000 for the third and subsequent violations in the same calendar year.

A.M. NEWS MONDAY 12-27-21

State Police have identified the Trooper who fired his issued firearm Last Wednesday in Unadilla as Trooper Justin Miller, who has been a trooper since 2016. Trooper Miller responded on December 22 to a domestic dispute in Unadilla, he was confronted by Mark Beilby who was armed with a knife inside the home. Beilby did not comply with Trooper Miller’s repeated commands to drop the knife and advanced at the trooper, Trooper Miller discharged his firearm, striking Beilby, and then administered first aid, Beilby was first takn to AO Fox Hospital’s Tri-Town Campus in Sidney & then to Wilson Hospital in Johnson City, where he was pronounced deceased. The State Attorney General’s Office is investigating the incident.

Otsego County Sheriff's Office arrested 41 year old Brian Boore of Worcester following a traffic stop in the Town of Worcester. Boore was charged with Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance following a traffic stop on Main Street Worcester, Boore was a passenger in the vehicle and was found to be in possession of a small quantity of heroin and methamphetamine, he was an appearance ticket returnable to the Worcester Town Court at a later date.

The Village of Oxford has received $50,000 for tree planting from the DEC, the Village Tree Board will coordinate the planting of 175 street and park trees during the spring and fall of 2022 with guidance from the NYS DEC and a local certified tree expert. The grant was awarded in celebration of Arbor Day as part of a $1.18 million award to communities across the state to inventory, plant, and maintain public trees.

The Town of Bainbridge Board held a meeting last night where the board voted to reject the state's mask mandate that went into effect Monday. The Board also voted to opt in for allowing marijuana dispensaries, but opted out of the law to allow for places of consumption in the town.

The Town of Guilford held a special vote Monday regarding the state's new marijuana law. 121 Guilford residents voted in favor of allowing marijuana dispensaries & on-site consumption business in the town, 67 voted against the measure.

The Community Cultural Center of Sidney will hold another Comedy Night this Saturday night starting at 8:00 PM, center President Teri Schunk explains:

(Teri Schunk 12-15-21)

Schunk said that on Sunday, at 2:00 PM, there will be a Christmas Concert featuring the Sidney Community Band

P.M. NEWS TUESDAY 12-14-21

Delaware County Chamber of Commerce President Ray Pucci defended accusations made against him & The Chamber today on the WCDO Morning show, that were made at the Delaware County Board of Supervisors meeting in Delhi, where he was accused of withholding financial statements to the Board, they have removed the Chamber as the County's Official Tourism agency & passed that responsibility over the Delaware County Department of Economic Development:

(Ray Pucci 12-14-21)

Pucci said that the chamber will continue with its other programs for its 300 members businesses, plus the annual Toys for Tots campaign, and trying to solve the issue of transportation for county residents to County jobs, more information is available at delawarecounty.org.

Delaware County Board of Supervisors Chairperson Tina Mole announced today that the County will not reallocate resources to enforce the newest New York State mask mandate that took effect on Monday. Mole stated that Delaware County does not have the internal framework to enforce this mandate, but businesses have oversight from other state agencies, such as Agriculture and Markets or other professional licensing boards, which may enforce the Mask newest mandate. County residents are asked to follow the mandate in business following the mandate lease, pleases wear masks in public spaces, get vaccinated and continue to be diligent with social distancing and hand washing practices. More information about COVID is available at delawarecountypublichealth.com.

The 3rd Annual Staff Works Save a Life fundraising campaign for the Delaware Valley Humane Society is underway until the end of the month, where donations made to the shelter will be matched by Staffworks, Humane Society Director Erin Insinga received a donation from Sean Sands at S&S Landscaping Depot of Sidney on WCDO this morning:

(Erin Insinga Sean Sands 12-14-21)

People can donate through the Delaware Valley Humane Society website at dvhsny.org, or through their Facebook Page, more information is available by calling the society during normal business hours at 563-7780.

Chenango County Health Department continues to schedule vaccine clinics around the county. a 1st dose Pfizer Vaccine clinic for ages 5 and older will be held at the Greenlawn Elementary School in Bainbridge today from 4:00 to 6:00 PM.

A.M. NEWS TUESDAY 12-14-21

Delaware County Sheriff’s Deputies initiated a traffic stop on a vehicle in the Town of Hamden last Tuesday for an equipment violation. 53 year-old Lisamichelle LaLonde, of Morris, was operating a motor vehicle with a suspended New York driver’s license, due to a previous insurance lapse. LaLonde was later issued traffic tickets for Aggravated Unlicensed Operation of a Motor Vehicle in the Third Degree, Unlicensed Operator, and Insufficient Brake Lamps. LaLonde is scheduled to appear before the Town of Hamden Court at a later date to answer the charges.

P.M. NEWS MONDAY 12-13-21

State Police have released body cam footage State Trooper David Draudt, who saved a child who was choking in the Town of Union on November 29th, Trooper Draudt talked about the incident:

(State Trooper David Draudt 12-13-21)

The full body cam video & interview with Trooper Draudt is available at the WCDO Facebook Page.

Gene Schmidt & his family announced today that they will once again host a free Christmas Dinner in Sidney on Christmas Day:

(Gene Schmidt 12-13-21)

Those who would like to volunteer to help out with the Christmas Dinner can call Gene Schmidt at 607-610-4030.

The New York State Common Retirement Fund will invest $2 billion in an index focused on reducing the risks of climate change and capitalizing on the opportunities arising from the transition to a low-carbon economy, according to State Comptroller Tom DiNapoli. The decision is part of the State Comptroller's Climate Action Plan to get to net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2040.

A.M. NEWS Monday 12-13-21

The Delaware County Board of Supervisors has decided to remove the Delaware County Chamber of Commerce as the tourism promotion agent for the County, even as visitor spending & sales tax revenue has increased in recent years, Delaware County Chamber of Commerce President Ray Pucci told WCDO News Friday that the Chamber Board fears that the decision will hurt the county economy:

(Ray Pucci 12-13-21)

Pucci also said that the chamber has been transparent with their finances, and recent audits showed no issues, Delaware County board of Supervisors Chairperson Tina Mole was unavailable for comment on the Chamber Decision on Friday.

The Town of Guilford is holding a special election today at the Town Hall on Marble Road from 12:00 Noon until 8:00 pm. Guilford Voters will decide on a proposition regarding the possible opting out of the state's new Cannabis bill that that allows for dispensaries & places of consumption for marijuana.

Otsego County Sheriff's Office arrested 49 year old Gladys McLaughlin of Oneonta following the Execution of an Arrest warrant on November 30th. McLaughlin was charged with Resisting arrest, Obstruction of Governmental Administration, & Harassment, she was released on an appearance ticket to appear in the Town of Oneonta Court at a later date.

Otsego County Sheriff's Office arrested 50 year old Aaron Chianta of Oneonta following the Execution of an Arrest warrant on November 30th. Chianta was charged with Resisting arrest, Obstruction of Governmental Administration, he was released on an appearance to appear in the Town of Oneonta Court at a later date.

P.M. NEWS MONDAY 11-22-21

The Greater Binghamton Sport Complex on Airport Road in the Town of Maine had its roof collapse Sunday, for the 2nd time in less than a year. The roof collapsed last December after snowfall, the structure was replaced and the roof collapsed during construction Sunday Afternoon. No injuries were reported & the investigation into the latest collapse is ongoing.

13 new candidates will be appearing on the 2022 National Baseball Hall of Fame ballot that is being mailed this week to approximately 400 voting members of the Baseball Writers’ Association of America. Among the players now eligible; Alex Rodríguez, Justin Morneau, Ryan Howard and Jimmy Rollins; pitchers Tim Lincecum and Jake Peavy; and DH-first baseman David Ortiz will join 17 holdovers from the 2021 balloting, which failed to produce a new Hall of Famer. Candidates must be named on 75% of ballots cast by selected Baseball Writers of America members, Induction Weekend will be July 22nd to the 25th in Cooperstown, Voting Results to be Announced at 6 p.m. ET Jan. 25 Live on MLB Network.

Delaware County Board of Elections announced that Eric Wilson won the town of Sidney Supervisor write in race, with 313 votes, to 191 for Kevin Greene; there were 22 votes for various other write in candidates.

State Police responded to a report of a vehicle into a pond in the town of Laurens. An investigation revealed that a 56-year-old male of Hopewell Junction, NY swerved in an attempt to avoid a deer. He went off the roadway and into a pond. The man was not injured. The New York State Police Underwater Recovery Team responded to assist in removing the Dodge Challenger out of the pond. State Police remind motorists that if a deer enters the roadway brake firmly and calmly and stay in your lane. Swerving can cause you to lose control of the vehicle. If you do hit a deer, pull off to the side of the road as soon as it’s safe to do so. Turn on your hazard lights, stay in the car & Call local police.

Delaware County Sheriff’s Deputies were dispatched to the Town of Walton October 29th, on a report of a domestic dispute, where it was alleged that 39 year old Martin Planty had stolen another person’s vehicle & threatened to cause another person bodily harm. Planty left the scene and an arrest warrant was issued by the Town of Walton Court. On November 16th, Deputies conducted a traffic stop on a vehicle operated by Planty in the Town of Davenport, Panty’s driving privileges were suspended due a failure to answer a summons, and he was arrested for Unauthorized Use of a Motor Vehicle, Aggravated Harassment, Aggravated Unlicensed Operation of a Motor Vehicle and Speeding. Planty was arraigned & was released on his own recognizance; he is scheduled to appear at Walton & Davenport Courts at later dates.

P.M. NEWS WEDNESDAY 11-10-21

Tri-Town Theatre will present "All Together Now" this weekend in Sidney, Cameron Kinnear & George Wells stopped by WCDO this morning to talk about the production:

(Cameron Kinnear-George Wells 11-10-21)

Performances will take place at the Community Cultural Center in Sidney at 8:00pm Friday & Saturday and 7:00pm on Sunday, Tickets can be purchased online at tritown.booktix.com or at the door.

Following Monday's announcement of the closing on the merger of the Price Chopper/ Market 32 & Tops Supermarkets, 12 of the stores that were divested out of the merger were sold to C&S Wholesale Grocers. Today, C&S announced that their stores will bring back the name "Grand Union", the current Tops Supermarkets locally in Cooperstown & Norwich will be Grand Union Supermarkets, the changeover is expected to be complete in February.

The New York State Office of Cannabis Management announced the availability of a web-based portal at cannabis.ny.gov/local-government, through which localities seeking to opt-out of hosting cannabis retail dispensary and/or on-site cannabis consumption licensees within their jurisdictions, can easily send their requests to the state Cannabis Control Board. The new state Marijuana Regulation & Taxation Act gives cities, towns, and villages until December 31, 2021 to pass a local law that makes a request to the state Cannabis Control Board to opt their jurisdiction out of hosting retail and/or on-site cannabis consumption licensees. Localities that opt-out by December 31, 2021, can always opt back in. After the December 31 deadline has passed, the Office of Cannabis Management will compile the information provided by localities and make it public so that those seeking a license will have the information they need to find jurisdictions in which they can operate.

A.M. NEWS Wednesday 11-10-21

State Police responded to a fatal accident Saturday involving a pedestrian. The incident occurred on State Highway 17C near exit 69 in the town of Union, where 38 year old Wesley Conklin entered the roadway and was stuck by 2 vehicles. Conklin was pronounced deceased at the scene, no criminal charges will be filed. State Police Bureau of Criminal Investigation, Collision Reconstruction Unit, Johnson City Fire and the Broome County Sheriff’s Department assisted at the scene.

The Friends of Afton announced the return of Afton’s Annual Christmas Parade, scheduled for Saturday December 4th at 5:00 pm. Floats and vehicles will line up at Corporate Park off Route 7, Walking groups, bicycles, and golf carts will gather at the Afton Edge Apartments.

A.M. News Wednesday 11-3-21

Yesterday was Election Day, The Delaware County Board of Elections did not announce a winner for the Sidney Town Supervisor’s race, between write-in candidates Eric Wilson & Kevin Greene, Officials told WCDO News it will take days or maybe even weeks to count & certify all of the write in votes across all 19 towns from this year's elections, there were 552 write in Votes Tuesday in Sidney Town Supervisors race. The winners for the Sidney Town board were Frank Selleck & Bill Heath, in the Town of Meredith, Town Council winners were John Janiszewski & David Briggs, the Town of Franklin Board seats go to Garret Sitts & Heather Ross, the town of Middletown Supervisor Will be Patrick Davis, the Town of Tompkins Clerk was Michelle Phoenix, in the Town Of Delhi, the supervisor will be Mark Tuttle, the Town Council winners were Margaret Baldwin & Matthew Kryston & the Walton Town Supervisor will be Joseph Cetta. In Chenango County, Sheriff Ernest Cutting was re-elected, The County Clerk winner is Brian Wessels, & the winners for the Norwich City Council are Fred Gee, William Loomis, Tom Revoir & Barry Christopherson. The winners for the Guilford Town Board were Thomas Ives & Matthew Retz, in Otsego County, the Board of Representatives winners were Ed Frazier, Jerry Madsen, Rick Brockway, Margaret Kennedy, Jennifer Mickle, Charles Varney, Keith McCarty, Clark Oliver & Donald Scanlon & the Town of Oneonta Supervisor will be Randall Mowers, while Karen Liddle & Sean Farrell Won the 2 Town of Oneonta Justice seats & Kimberly Fierke & Skylar Thompson Win the 2 Seats on the Oneonta Town Board. The town of Hartwick Supervisor will be Robert O’Brien while Christopher Briggs & Bruce Markussen win the seats on the Town Board. In the Town of Unadilla, the Town Justice winner is Joshua Palmer The Unadilla Town Clerk will be Terry Yoder & the Town Council winners were Ron Reed & Jessica Grow, in the town of Laurens, George Decker, Edwin Winslow were the winners of Town Board Seats. Across New York State, voters rejected the propositions, amending the apportionment and redistricting process, eliminating the 10 day advance voter registration requirement, & authorizing the no excuse absentee balloting. Voters approved the proposition to the Right to clean air, clean water and a healthy environment.

The New York State Cannabis Control Board will hold their next meeting today, at 1:00 pm. virtually. The public is able to observe this meeting at players.brightcove.net. Videos and transcripts of the meeting will be posted at cannabis.ny.gov.

The Town of Oneonta will hold a public budget hearing tonight at 7:00 PM at the town hall in West Oneonta, the town board will also discuss a law to over-ride the State Tax cap.

The Sidney Chamber of Commerce will hold their next meeting this morning at 8:00 am, it will be held at Trackside Dining on Main Street.

On October 21st, Delaware County Sheriff’s Deputies observed a vehicle traveling at 68 miles per hour in a 55 mile per hour zone on State Highway 8 in Masonville. 52-year-old Jack Mason of Whitney Point, was stopped, his license was revoked due to failure to answer a prior summons from the Sidney Town Court. Mason was charged with Aggravated Unlicensed Operator of a Motor Vehicle, Speeding, Failure to Use a Turn Signal, and Operating a Motor Vehicle Without Stop Lamps. Mason was later released on traffic tickets to Masonville Town Court at a later date.

In the town of Sidney, 2 candidates are seeking to be elected Supervisor, and both are Write-In Candidates following the deaths of Sidney Town Supervisor Gene Pigford a few months ago. Republican Eric Wilson has served on the Town board for many years and has been part of holding the line on Taxes:

(Eric Wilson 11-1-21)

Kevin Greene is seeking the Sidney Town Supervisor's position, he feels he can manage the town responsibly & seek not opportunities:

(Kevin Greene 11-1-21)

In the town of Sidney, there is a hotly contested race by 4 people for 2 seats on the Town Board; they include Democrat Bill Heath, whose main goal is to help the Business community grow:

(Bill Heath 11-1-21)

Republican Frank Selleck seeks re-election after serving on the board for 4 years; he wants to continue to work as a team with other board members:

(Frank Selleck 11-1-21)

Democratic Bea Bishop told WCDO News that the Town Board needs to improve communication with residents & help with their needs:

(Bea Bishop 11-1-21)

Write In Republican Candidate Paul Muratore hopes to get on the Town Board, to continue the work started by the late Supervisor Gene Pigford:

(Paul Muratore 11-1-21)

In the town of Sidney, Bill Hunt is running unopposed for another seat on the town board. Polls will be open tomorrow from 6:00 AM to 9:00 PM state wide.

In Delaware County Elections of interest on Election day, in the Town of Meredith, 2 seats are open on the town board; the candidates are Democrat John Janiszewski, Democrat Michael Morgenfruh & Republican David Briggs. In the Town of FRANKLIN, there are 4 candidates for 2 seats on the town board; Garret Sitts, Heather Ross, George Coulter & John O'Connor. In the TOWN OF MIDDLETOWN, Democrat Todd Pascarella & Republican Patrick Davis are running for Town Supervisor. In the town of DELHI; 4 PEOPLE Running for 2 seats on the board, for FRANKLIN TOWN COUNCIL there are 4 Candidates for 2 seats and in Walton, Lillian Brown & Joseph Cetta are running for Town Supervisor.

In CHENANGO COUNTY elections tomorrow, residents are voting for Sheriff between incumbents Ernie Cutting & Democratic Challenger Debra Cubbedge. County voters will also vote for County Clerk between Republican Brian Wessels & Independent Leonard Smith, Norwich City Voters will be voting for Mayor, between Democrat John Quattrocchi & Republican Brian Doliver, there are races for Alderman positions in wards 2 & 4. there are 3 candidates running for 2 seat on the Guilford Town Board between Republican Thomas Ives, Republican Matthew Retz & Libertarian Jennifer Caci

Voters in OTSEGO COUNTY have races for the County Board of Representatives in Districts 1, 2, 3, 5, 6, 7, 9, 11 & 13; there is a race for Oneonta Mayor between 2 Common Council members: Mark Drnek & Len Carson. In the town of Oneonta, in the Supervisors’ race, Randal Mowers faces Teresa DeSantis, there are 4 people running for 2 town justice positions & 3 people are running for 2 seats on the Town Board. In the Town of Hartwick Supervisor's Race, candidates are Bryan LoRusso & Robert O'Brien & there are 5 candidates for 2 seats on the town council. In Unadilla, Dwight Mott & Joshua Palmer are running for Town Justice, Terry Yoder & Kelly Moore are running for the Unadilla Town Clerk's Position & for the Unadilla Town Council, BARBARA NOLAN, RON REED, JESSICA GROW, & Write In Candidate Sheri Kinsella are running for 2 Seats. For the Laurens Town Board, George Decker, Edwin Winslow & Mark Peterson are running for 2 seats.

Governor Kathy Hochul signed legislation designating a portion of State Route 51 in the Town of Butternuts as SP4 Richard F. Walton, Jr. Memorial Highway. Richard Walton, Jr. was born and raised in the Town of Butternuts, he underwent basic training and medical training after enlisting, he volunteered to go to Vietnam, On February 6th, 1970, while serving in Vietnam, Walton lost his life in a helicopter crash.

17 organizations were awarded grants totaling over $318,000 from the Community Foundation for South Central New York. The successful grant applications were approved through a competitive, volunteer panel and board review process, are for a variety of capital projects, operations, economic development, and programming. The Foundation received 70 applications this year requesting over 1.2 Million dollars. More information about the Foundation can be found on its website at donorswhocare.org.

24 year old Elijah Burnside of Binghamton pleaded guilty to 2nd degree manslaughter in Broome County Court Monday, Burnside admitted to driving at a high rate of speed in Binghamton November 21, 2019, & hitting a vehicle driven by 70 year old Ronald Phetphonsy of Binghamton, resulting in his death. Burnside faces sentencing at a later date.

A.M. NEWS TUESDAY 10-26-21

On Saturday, Sidney Police received a complaint of a robbery in progress at the Mirabito convenience store at 1 West Main Street, by a white female wearing a mask over the lower part of her face and a hooded sweatshirt. The employee handed $1,619 to the suspect who then fled the scene. No firearm or weapon was displayed during the incident. On Sunday, the suspect was taken into custody, 28 year old Alicia McAdams of Sidney was charged with 3rd degree Robbery & 4th degree Grand larceny, McAdams was arraigned in Village of Sidney Court, and she was released on her own recognizance to appear back in court at a later date.

Delaware County Sheriff's Office arrested 24 year old Elizabeth Crandall of Meredith after Deputies observed a vehicle fail to stop at the stop sign at the intersection of County Highway 26 and State Highway 10 in Hamden. A check of Crandall’s driver’s license revealed that her driving privileges were suspended for failure to answer a summons out of the Town of Franklin Court. Crandall was charged with Aggravated Unlicensed Operation of a Motor Vehicle, Failure to Stop at a Stop Sign, and Operating a motor Vehicle with an Obstructed View, she was released on and directed to appear at the Hamden Town Court on a later date.

P.M. NEWS MONDAY 10-25

State Police responded to a 3-vehicle crash in the town of Guilford Sunday night shortly before 8:00 PM. Troopers and multiple EMS and fire personnel responded to the intersection of County Road 35 and State Highway 8, where a Dodge Pickup traveling eastbound on County Road 35 and a Ford Fusion was traveling north on State Highway 8. The Dodge Ram entered the intersection and struck the Ford Fusion then struck a Subaru Forester which was stopped at the intersection on County Road 35. The operator of the Fusion was a 36-year-old female of New Bedford, Massachusetts, & the passenger was a 30-year-old female of Port Leyden, New York, they were taken to Wilson Hospital with serious injuries. A 5-year-old female, a 7-year-old female and a 3-year old female all of Port Leyden, were transported to Tri-Town Hospital with non life-threatening injuries. The 69 year old man driving the Dodge was evaluated at Tri-Town Hospital and released. His passenger, a 37-year-old male was not injured. The operator & a passenger in the Subaru were taken to Tri-Town Hospital then to Wilson Hospital. The crash remains under investigation.

Sidney Police Department received a complaint Friday Morning of a fight in progress in the parking lot of the Smiley's convenience store on West Main Street. The investigation revealed that it was a home invasion at the residence above the convenience store. 2 males entered 17 West Main Street by force, they took a small safe or lock-box, they got into a physical altercation with a resident, a witness called 911 and also give a description of the vehicle & license plate number. State Police assisted & arrested 22 year old Lucas Tanner of Franklin, Friday, he was charged with 2nd degree Burglary, 2nd degree Robbery, plus Conspiracy & Petty larceny, he was arraigned in Village of Sidney Court & was remanded to the Delaware County Jail on $25,000 bail. The 2nd suspect is still at large and is expected to be identified & arrested shortly.

Operation Merry Christmas is already underway, to serve children from struggling families in the region, to receive presents under the Christmas trees this year. Program coordinator Dorene Ireland stopped by WCDO this morning to discuss the program:

(Dorene Ireland 10-25-21)

Ireland said that a few trees are out in local stores & financial institutions with more to come, people can take the tags off of the trees, purchase the item on the tag & bring the present back to the location the tag came from. Ireland said that the giveaway day will be on Saturday December 11th at the AO Fox Hospital Tri-Town Campus on Pearl Street in Sidney, more information is available at 607-610-4002 or on the Operation Merry Christmas Facebook page.

Area Attorney Joe Ermeti announced today that he will be seeking the position of Delaware County Judge in the 2022 election, Ermeti told WCDO News of his qualifications:

(Joe Ermeti 10-25-21)

Ermeti said that a kick off to his campaign will be held tonight at Club 55 in Sidney at 6:00 PM, Town of Sidney Republican Candidates are also expected to be participating in tonight's event.

The Village of Sidney Board of Trustees will hold a Public Hearing on the Local Law #3 tonight at 7:00 PM at the Community Cultural Center at 1 Bridge Street. The proposed local law is for the Village to Opt-out of the Dispensaries and places of consumption for the newly passed marijuana legalization by the State, copies of the proposed Law are available at villageofsidney.org.

Otsego County Sheriff's Office arrested 43 year old Dennis Kropp of Oneonta on outstanding warrants after a traffic stop in the Town of Hartwick Tuesday.  Kropp was charged with Speeding, operating an Uninspected Motor Vehicle & other charges, Kropp was taken into custody for the warrants out of the Oneonta City Court, he was turned over to Oneonta Police Department to await arraignment, Kropp was order to appear in Town of Hartwick Court at a later for the traffic violations.

The Village of Sidney will hold a public meeting later this month, regarding the village's option to opt out of the state Marijuana legalization program, Mayor Andy Matviak told WCDO News that the village has options:

(Andy Matviak 10-13-21)

The Village of Sidney Board of Trustees will hold a Public Hearing on the Local Law #3 on October 25th at 7:00 PM at the Community Cultural Center at 1 Bridge Street.

Bassett Healthcare Network announced some temporary changes to services beginning today.  Officials reported that Outpatient Laboratory blood draws are now by appointment only, Monday through Friday, from 7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.  Patients can schedule an appointment online at mybassetthealthconnection.org or call 547-3700.  Also, the Cooperstown’s Convenient Care location is temporarily closed; those services are available in Oneonta with more information available at 433-6400.  Also officials said that over the next several days, patients may find that on hold times may be slightly longer than usual.  The most up-to-date information about temporary service changes can be found at bassett.org.

The Village of Sidney announced that they be paving on Spruce Street,  Overlook Drive today along with the Upper & Lower parts of Hatfield Street, some of those street may be paved on Wednesday, more information is available at 561-2339.

A.M. NEWS TUESDAY 9-28-21

Shane Santiago of Otego was sentenced to 4 to 12 years in prison in Otsego County Court Monday for 2nd degree manslaughter, from the July 15, 2020, crash that killed 2 people in Pittsfield on county Route 13.  Tehya Gonzalez and Cheyenn Aubry were passengers in his Santiago’s car, which drove off the road at 85 miles an hour, killing them both. Santiago survived and was treated at the hospital for minor injuries.

The New York State Board on Electric Generation Siting and the Environment will meet on Today at 10:30 A.M., in Albany,   on the agenda for that meeting is the application of Bluestone Wind, LLC for a Certificate of Environmental Compatibility and Public Need for the Construction of their proposed Wind Farm Project in the Towns of Windsor and Sanford.  The meeting is available online at dps.ny.gov/Webcasts.

Delaware County Sheriff's Deputies patrolling State Highway 10 in the Town of Delhi last Friday night, observed and stopped a vehicle that was being operated erratically, crossing the solid yellow center lines.   41-year-old Melissa Pycroft of Hobart was charged with driving while intoxicated, driving with a blood alcohol content of .08% or more, failure to keep right and moving from lane unsafely.    Pycroft was released on appearance tickets directing her to appear in the Town of Delhi Court on a later date to answer the charges.

Delaware County Sheriff's Office announced that a violation of post release conditions imposed by the Village of Walton Court has resulted in the arrest of a Sidney man.  Deputies & Sidney Police officers arrested 42-year-old Dana-John Britton of Sidney on the warrant for the parole violation after his release from the Delaware County Correctional Facility.  Britton was arraigned in the Village of Walton Court and was remanded to the Delaware County Correctional Facility on $10,000 cash bail or $20,000 bond.

The Delaware County Board of Elections is reminding county potential voters that October 8th is the last day to register in person and to postmark a registration form for the November 2nd General Election.  On this year's ballot is a Supreme Court Justice seat and many Town Offices, plus 5 State propositions and the Town of Colchester has one proposition on the Ballot. Early voting will be in their Delhi office from October 23rd through October 31st, more information is available at delcony.us or by calling 832-5321.

Chenango River Theatre will present only the 2nd staging of "The Craftsman ' a new play by author Bruce Graham that premiered in Philadelphia recently.  Theatre spokesman Bill Lelbach explains:

(Bill Lelbach 9-24-21)

Lelbach said that the Author Bruce Graham will be in attendance on opening night to see the show, which will run from October 8th through the 24th, on Thursday, Friday & Saturday nights at 7:30 & Sunday Matinees at 2:00 PM, Tickets can be purchased at chenangorivertheatre.org, or by calling the box office at 656-8499.

A.M. NEWS FRIDAY 9-24-21

The Sidney Chamber of Commerce is holding their "Halfway To The Hooley" event in Downtown Sidney tomorrow, Chamber President Teri Schunk explains:

(Teri Schunk 9-24-21)

Schunk said that other events will also be going on at the Sidney Cultural Community Center at Main & Bridge Street, in addition to the Division & Main Street activities Saturday.

P.M. NEWS MONDAY 9-13-21

State Police have arrested 7 people linked to a crime spree across 4 local counties.  In July, State Police arrested Christopher Youngs of the town of Maryland & John Clark of Morris in connection with multiple burglaries in Otsego, Delaware, Chenango and Madison counties.  State Police Investigators have lodged additional charges against Youngs and Clark, & they have also arrested 32 year old Joseph Santiago of Burlington Flats, 32 year old Charles Hall of Edmeston, 23 year old Kayla Van Pelt of Edmeston, 59 year old Henry Schmidt of Garratsville, 56 year old Samuel Madero of Morris, All 7 have been linked to over 40 cases between the State Police, local Sheriff’s departments and local police departments.  More charges are likely as investigators continue to work through the open cases.

Hartwick College President Margaret Drugovich announced her Plans to Retire Sometime next summer.  Drugovich has led Hartwick College for 13 years, she received national news coverage for her program for an accelerated 3 Year Degree program; plus the development of 6 new undergraduate majors, a graduate-level program in Translational Biomedical Research Management, and soon, its Master of Science in Nursing Education and a Certificate of Advanced Study in Nursing Education and the development of Hartwick’s Center for Craft Food & Beverage program. The College’s Board of Trustees has initiated a formal search to choose Hartwick’s 11th president.

State Police arrested 22 year old Jessica Winans of Unadilla for the felony Aggravated Unlicensed Operation of a motor vehicle as well as Driving While Intoxicated, following an accident on September 6th.  Troopers were dispatched to a report of a vehicle that struck a tree on Plankenhorn Road in the town of Sidney.  Winans was the only person in the vehicle, she was transported to Wilson Hospital in Johnson City for the treatment of injuries to the face & ankle, and she was issued appearance tickets to the Sidney Town Court on September 23rd.

A.M. NEWS MONDAY 9-13-21

On the 20th anniversary of 9/11, Governor Kathy Hochul has proposed legislation that would allow National Guard members to qualify as veterans under New York State law. Governor Hochul has also issued a Citation honoring members of the New York National Guard for their service during and after the events 9/11.  Over 6,700 New York State National Guard members were called to serve in response to and recovery from the attack on September 11th 2001.

The State Department of Transportation is advising motorists that State Route 51 will be closed just north of Walters Road in the Town of New Lisbon, today through October 4th, for a culvert replacement.  Motorists should follow posted detours utilizing County Routes 12, 14 and 16. All properties along State Route 51 will remain accessible to local traffic between the diversions and the closure.  Up-to-date travel information is available by calling 511, visit 511NY.org or download the free 511NY mobile app.

P.M. NEWS FRIDAY 9-10-21

Tomorrow is the 20th anniversary of the 9/11 terrorist attacks, Locally, 4 churches in Unadilla & Sidney  will be hosting a free event Saturday afternoon for those who wish to commemorate the event, Rick Fisher of the Unadilla United Methodist Church explains:

(Rick Fisher 9-10-21)

The event runs from 4:00 to 7:00 PM Saturday in Unadilla, More information is available at 267-9933.

Delaware County Sheriff's Deputies were dispatched to a 1 car motor vehicle accident Thursday on State Highway 23 in the Town of Davenport, near the intersection of Brick House Hill Road.  The investigation determined that a 13-year-old passenger sustained a serious head injury from the accident & LifeNet airlifted the teen to Albany Medical Center.  The driver 35 year-old Robert Smith of Davenport sustained minor injuries and was treated at the scene.   Deputies learned that Smith fell asleep at the wheel, the car travelled across the on-coming lane of traffic and ran off the roadway where it struck a tree, Smith was charged with operating a motor vehicle with a suspended registration, moving from a lane unsafely, failure to keep right, he will appear in the Town of Davenport Court at a later date.

Joshua Beams was appointed this week as the Otsego County Administrator, at a special Meeting of the Otsego County Board of Representatives.  Beams is a 2005 SUNY Oneonta Graduate, he will start on October 4th.

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

(Larry Halbert 9-2-21)

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

The 2021 Sidney Veteran’s Memorial Park Fundraising Golf Tournament will be held at the Sidney Golf & Country Club Saturday, organizer Tom Ruff told WCDO News that there is work to be done at the Park this year with the money raised:

(Tom Ruff 8-18-21)

The Tournament begins at 9:00 AM tomorrow with a shotgun start; more information is available at 518-256-7899.

Colorscape Chenango is back as an in person event in downtown Norwich Saturday & Sunday, Spokesperson Celeste Friend explains:

(Celeste Friend 9-10-21)

The 2 day free event will be held rain or shine, in East and West Parks in Norwich, all local health department COVID-19 guidelines will be in effect, more information is available at colorscape.org.

P.M. NEWS Friday 8-27-21

State Police responded to a crash between a motorcycle and vehicle on Conklin Road/ State Route 7 in the town of Conklin. The operator of the motorcycle was pronounced deceased on scene, he has been identified as 21 year old Tristan Thor of Vestal. The investigation indicates that 44 year old Seth Delvillano of Binghamton was traveling north on Conklin Road when he crossed over into the southbound lane and struck the motorcycle head-on, the investigation is on-going.

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

(Kate Porter 8-27-21)

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

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

Delaware County's Board of Elections has received funding from a grant to change their system thanks. The Board is planning to create more access with a new early voting site at an undetermined location & they are working on securing a Technology Innovation and Election Resource Grant to purchase an absentee ballot scanner and additional software.

Governor Andrew Cuomo issued a last-minute commutation to David Gilbert, who was convicted of 3 murders in the 1981 killings of Nyack Police Sergeant Edward O’Grady, Police Officer Waverly Brown and Brink’s Guard Peter Paige. Law Enforcement officials around the state are calling the Gilbert commutation reprehensible, including Delaware County Sheriff Craig DuMond:

(Sheriff Craig DuMond 8-25-21)

Former Governor Cuomo’s actions will allow David Gilbert to have his case heard by a Parole Board after spending 40 years in Jail, Sheriff DuMond said that the same Parole Board has released 15 cop killers from prison since 2017.

Colorscape Chenango will be returning this year, after missing in-person activities due to the pandemic last year, spokesperson Celeste Friend comments:

(Celeste Friend 8-25-21)

Colorscape Chenango will be held in East & West Parks in Downtown Norwich on September 11th & 12th.

A.M. NEWS WEDNESDAY 8-25-21

State Police are looking for the public’s help in finding a man who stole vehicle parts recently. Police stated that on June 27th and July 19th, a man operating a white Chevrolet Silverado stole scrap brake rotors from Sidney Tire, also on June 27th, he was observed at Certified Auto in Oneonta, taking truck tires and 5 rims into the same white Chevrolet Silverado. The man is described as a white male with short darker hair, between 30 -40 years old, wearing a dark t-shirt, dark pants, dark shoes with white soles. Anyone with information should call State Police at 561-7400.

State Police are investigating a fatal 1-vehicle crash on I-81 in the town of Triangle Tuesday Night at about 6:15 PM. Troopers were dispatched to a report of a vehicle on its side and on fire with a fatality. Troopers are looking for any witnesses that may have seen the black Kia Sedona with Missouri license plates, the deceased has been identified as a 64 year old man from Missouri, the name will be released after family notification. Anyone with information is asked to call State Police at 775-1241.

Commerce Chenango announced that the effort to strengthen broadband across Chenango County will be getting a $1.9 million assist from the New York State Office of Community Renewal. The Chenango County Board of Supervisors accepted the Community Development Block Grant recently through the federal Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act, or "CARES" Act. Funds will be used to bolster wireless internet in the City of Norwich and the Town of New Berlin, plans call for the installation of wireless antennas atop already existing tall structures within the municipalities.

Sidney Police Department responded early this morning to the area of Great American for a report of a person causing a disturbance. Upon arrival officers located 38 year old Bobbi Worden, who is alleged to have caused damage to a vehicle, she became combative when officers attempted to take her into custody. Worden was charged with Criminal mischief, Resisting arrest, Obstruction of governmental administration, she was released on an appearance ticket for Village of Sidney Court at a later date.

The Chenango Blues Festival begins tonight in the East Park in Downtown Norwich with a free show starting at 7:00 PM tonight, with Friday Night's concert at the Chenango County Fair Grounds in Norwich, the Friday show is Free to all but unvaccinated individuals should wear a mask and social distance. Blues festival Spokesman Eric Larsen told WCDO News that they have a full line up of great acts & all safety protocols are in place:

(Eric Larsen 8-19-21)

Larsen said that the Main show will be at the Chenango County Fairgrounds Saturday, tickets will be only be available at chenangobluesfest.org/tickets.

Otsego County's annual Household Hazardous Waste Days will be this Friday & Saturday, for County Residents to properly dispose of items free of charge. Accepted Items this year includes enamel paints, pesticides, Antifreeze, batteries & more. Items can be dropped off Friday from 8:00 to 11:00 AM at the Unadilla Town barn & Saturday at the Meadows Office Complex in Cooperstown, residents are asked to arrive by name, A through H will go from 8:00 to 9:30 AM, I through Q from 9:30 to 11:00 AM, and R through Z from 11:30 AM to 1:00 PM, more information is available at 547-4225.

The Sherburne EMS Squad received a gift from Chobani, a $150,000 ambulance. The new Ambulance was unveiled Tuesday at the Chobani plant, Sherburne Mayor Bill Acee told WCDO News recently that the old ambulance had numerous problems that would cost about $10,000 to repair, and fundraising efforts were underway to get a new ambulance, which will cover the Village of Sherburne and the Fire Departments that protects 3 adjacent townships.

Catholic Charities Sidney office is taking pre-registration through tomorrow for their School Supplies & Backpack Program for the 2021-2022 school year. Households who have children enrolled in the Sidney Central School district and meet our income requirements may qualify for FREE school supplies and backpack, call 604-4071 for more information.

Downtown Norwich continues with the Thursday evening NBT Bank’s free Summer Concert Series. The weekly musical performances are presented by the Chenango Blues Association, to East Park, tonight, Johnson & Johnson 1-shot COVID vaccines are available from UHS Chenango Memorial Hospital. “We will have several doses of the Johnson & Johnson vaccine on-hand on a first come, first serve basis with no appointment necessary, set up opposite the stage near the gazebo; from 6:30 pm. to 8:30 pm., for those 18 & older.

State Comptroller Tom DiNapoli today announced the audit of the Town of Butternuts. The audit found that the board did not provide adequate oversight of the disbursement process and exceeded its authority under New York State Town Law by authorizing insurance claims and annual contracts to be paid before audit and approval. The board also exceeded its authority by allowing a third-party vendor direct access to the town's bank account that, at times, had more than $500,000 on deposit. In addition, the board allowed debit cards to be used, which resulted in a circumvention of the town's disbursement controls. Auditors found that the142 disbursements totaling $142,200 they reviewed were for proper purposes and adequately supported. However, the board, did not audit and approve 53 of these claims totaling $15,600 before payment as required.

Delaware County Sheriff's Office announced that a Downsville man is facing a charge of criminal contempt following a report of a domestic dispute in the Town of Colchester. On Tuesday evening, Deputies responded in the Town of Colchester, 53 year-old Michael Colao, of Downsville violated the terms of an order of protection issued by Delaware County Family Court. Colao was charged with criminal contempt, he was released & will appear in the Colchester Town Court on a later date.

Delaware County Sheriff's Office arrested 21 year-old Shawn Zimmerman, of Gloversville, for endangering the welfare of a child and forcible touching, Zimmerman is accused of inappropriately touching a juvenile female in the Village of Stamford. Zimmerman was arraigned in the Town of Harpersfield Court where he was issued a temporary order of protection prohibiting him from having contact with the victim, he was released in his own recognizance pending a future appearance in that court.

Otsego County is currently at a SUBSTANTIAL level of community transmission, and is on the verge of becoming HIGH level of community transmission. CDC & Otsego County Department of Health recommends everyone to wear a mask indoors in public if you are in an area of substantial or high transmission, to maximize protection from the Delta variant and prevent possibly spreading it to others. This week there have been several cases of individuals having a repeat COVID-19 infection. This occurs when someone is infected with COVID-19 and 90 or more days later tests positive again for COVID-19. These repeat infections are mostly occurring in unvaccinated individuals. This reinforces that immunity from natural infection diminishes after 90 days. It is important if you have had COVID-19 and are not vaccinated please consider getting vaccinated to prevent a reinfection. In Otsego County. there are 82 active cases, 19 new cases reported today, with 5 hospitalized, there have been 2614 total cases in 2021.

A.M. NEWS Thursday 8-12-21

Broome County Sheriff’s Office responded to a fatal motorcycle crash Tuesday night in West Corners at Glendale Drive & Campville Road at 11:44 pm. 42-year-old Jason Krissel of the Town of Union was ejected off of his motorcycle & was pronounced dead, Krissel applied the brakes aggressively at the intersection, after traveling at a high rate of speed. The investigation is continuing.

Bassett Healthcare Network’s FoxCare Center in Oneonta remains closed today due to a water outage. Officials say all patients with scheduled appointments will continue to be contacted by their provider’s offices. Pharmacy patients are encouraged to call the Cooperstown clinic at 607-547-5127 for medication assistance.

THE AMERICAN RED CROSS CURRENTLY HAS A CRITICAL NEED FOR ALL BLOOD TYPES. RED CROSS SPOKESPERSON, MEG ROSSMAN EXPLAINS WHY...

(MEG ROSSMAN 8-11-21)

UPCOMING BLOOD DRIVES IN THE TRI COUNTY AREA INCLUDE TUESDAY, AUGUST 17TH AT THE GUERNSEY MEMORIAL PUBLIC LIBRARY IN NORWICH AND AO FOX-TRI TOWN CAMPUS IN SIDNEY AND THURSDAY AUGUST 19TH AT THE FRANKLIN UNITED METHODIST CHURCH AND THE WALTON FIRE DEPARTMENT. VISIT RED CROSS BLOOD.ORG FOR A LISTING OF BLOOD DRIVES IN YOUR AREA.

Delaware County Sheriff's Office arrested of 33-year-old Brad Wenk of Lakewood, Pennsylvania, on State Highway 268 in the Town of Tompkins for traveling at a high rate of speed. Deputies determined that Wenk was operating a motor vehicle while intoxicated, he is charged with aggravated DWI & Wenk will appear in the Tompkins Town Court on a later date.

THE CHENANGO COUNTY BOARD OF SUPERVISORS VOTED MONDAY TO APPROVE AN ADDITIONAL COUNTY MOTOR VEHICLE REGISTRATION FEE TO HELP FUND A NEW COUNTY-RUN EMS SERVICE. THE PROPOSAL INCLUDES AN ANNUAL $5 FEE FOR COUNTY RESIDENTS WITH VEHICLES WEIGHING 35 HUNDRED POUNDS OR LESS AND A $10 FEE FOR HEAVIER VEHICLES. THE COUNTY BOARD ESTIMATES THE ADDITIONAL FEE WILL GENERATE NEARLY 300 THOUSAND DOLLARS EACH YEAR.

COMMUNITY WIDE YARD SALES WILL BE HELD THIS SATURDAY, AUGUST 14TH FROM 9AM TO 4PM IN THE VILLAGE AND TOWN OF GREENE. SALE LISTS WILL BE AVAILABLE ON THE GREENE COMMUNITY YARD SALES FACEBOOK PAGE.

A.M. NEWS 8-11-21

The Chenango County Fair returns today at the Fairgrounds in Norwich with a variety of events for the whole family, spokesperson Mary Weidman explains:

(Mary Weidman 8-11-21)

The full list of events is available at chenangofair.com.

P.M. NEWS FRIDAY 7-23-21

The Chenango County Sheriff's Office announced this afternoon that the stolen Excavator that was stolen from the Town of McDonough on July 19th has been recovered.  No arrests have yet been announced, the investigation is ongoing.

A fundraiser will be held in downtown Sidney Tomorrow to benefit the Delaware Valley Humane Society, director Erin Insinga explains:

(Erin Insinga 7-23-21)

The vendors will be set up in the Market Square lot at Main & Division Street in downtown Sidney from 9:00 AM to 2:00 PM.

State Comptroller Tom DiNapoli's Office audited the Town of Otselic, the report showed that The Supervisor did not maintain complete, accurate and timely financial records and reports,  did not provide the board with accurate financial reports and did not record deposits totaling $127,000, cash withdrawals totaling $199,000 and fund transfers totaling $874 in the accounting records.  Auditors also found, the required 2016 through 2019 annual financial reports were not filed with the Comptroller’s office; also a board member had a prohibited interest in the contracts between the town and his auto parts businesses.

The Chenango County Fair Board is reminding area fairgoers that there will be tractor pulls on Thursday & Friday of Fair week.  Fair spokesperson Mary Weidman gave WCDO a timeline of highlights at this year's fair:

(Mary Weidman 7-23-21)

Weidman said that the Tractor Pull on Thursday will begin at 10:00 AM, the Empire State Pullers begins at 7:00 PM, and The Friday Chenango County Truck Pull is new this year and will be run with the New York Hot Farm Tractor Pull at 6:30 PM, more information is available at nyhotfarm.com.

A.M. NEWS FRIDAY 7-23-21

The ARC of Delaware County is seeking to add up to 25 people for a variety of positions, and they are holding their 3rd & 4th job fairs this month, ARC director of Community Relation Catherine Tweedie commented:

(Catherine Tweedie 7-23-21)

The next ARC Job Fair is today from 4:00 to 8:00 PM & another will be held tomorrow from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM, at their location on State Highway 10 in Walton.

The Rotary Club of Sidney and the Cullman Developmental Center are teaming up to create a series of events that will engage kids in curious, stimulating educational fun filled activities this summer.  The 2nd of 4 events will be held this Sunday for "Dairy Day" at Keith Clark Park, Rotary Spokesman Larry Halbert explains:

(Larry Halbert 7-23-21)

Halbert said that The Dairy Princess and her Court, Future Farmers of America students and advisors will provide hands on opportunities for kids to learn about the importance of Dairy Farming, the event will run from 1:00 to 3:00 PM on Sunday.  The 3rd event of the series will be held August 7th.

Otsego County Department of Emergency Services reported that State Route 51 remains closed south of the village of Morris to the Butternuts Town Line is still closed.  In the town of Morris, portions of Dimock Hollow Road, Gulf Road & Pittsley Road are closed.  In the Town of Butternuts, Dunham’s Cross road is closed, in the town of Pittsfield Cobb & Hawks roads are still closed, all roads in the town of Unadilla that were affected by flooding, are now open.

The Delaware County Fair board is looking to hire someone to handle some of their expected garbage during Fair week, Spokesman Jason Craig explains:

(Jason Craig 7-21-21)

Craig also announced that the Walton Police Department arrested 3 unidentified juveniles for damaging the Fair Secretary's Office; they will be hiring a company to come in & for clean-up & repairs.

Sidney Police Department responded July 13th to Walgreens for a report of an employee having personal property stolen from them by customers, on Monday, Sidney Police arrested 28 year old Russell LeBlanc of Delhi & 37 year old Jamie Benham of Sidney for 1 count each of Petty Larceny & Conspiracy.  Benham was released on an appearance ticket to appear back in court at a later date, State Parole was notified of LeBlanc's arrest, who issued their own warrant for his arrest, LeBlanc was arraigned in Village of Sidney Court, where he was released on his own recognizance to appear back in court at a later date, he was then turned over to State Parole officers who remanded him to the Delaware County Jail.

P.M. NEWS TUESDAY 7-13-21

Officials with the Delaware County Fair announced that their Secretary’s office and fair store was broken into and vandalized, Fair Spokesman Jason Craig comments:

(Jason Craig 7-13-21)

Craig said that the Fair Board of Directors is offering a reward for information leading to the arrest and conviction of those involved. The Walton Police Department is investigating and anyone with information can call them at 865-5400 or send us a Facebook message or email to delcofair@gmail.com.

A.M. NEWS TUESDAY 7-13-21

State Police are investigating multiple burglaries at seasonal residences in Chenango, Delaware and Otsego counties. 23 year old Christopher Youngs of the town of Maryland and 27 year old John Clark of Morris have been charged with 2nd degree Burglary and Criminal Possession of Stolen Property for burglaries in Otsego and Delaware counties.  Youngs was remanded to the Delaware County Jail on $50,000 cash bail or $150,000 bond.  Clark was remanded to the Otsego County Jail on $25,000 cash bail or $50,000 bond.  The investigation is ongoing; anyone with information should contact State Police at Troop C in Sidney at 561-7400.

State Police arrested 33 year old Johnny Rivera of South Glens Falls for Criminal Possession of Stolen Property, following an accident on Delaware County Road 4 in the Town of Sidney.  A trooper found an unoccupied Rent-A-Center Van that crashed into the guide rail, which had been reported stolen from Glens Falls, Rivera was walking away from the scene, he was taken to Tri-Town Hospital for the treatment of injuries then he was arraigned in Sidney Town Court & was released on his own recognizance and scheduled to reappear on July 22nd.

Sidney Police Department arrested 66 year old Paul Ferron of  Sidney for Aggravated unlicensed operation in the 1st degree,  Aggravated DWI with a BAC .18 or greater, Driving while intoxicated, and several tickets for traffic infractions following a recent traffic stop.  Ferron was released on appearance tickets to appear in Village of Sidney Court at a later date.

P.M. NEWS FRIDAY 7-9-21

Sidney Police Department assisted a Department of Homeland Security Investigation unit to execute a federal search warrant at 243 Johnston Circle in the Village of Sidney into the illegal possession and manufacture of firearms.  Police seized 6 handguns, 18 rifles or shotguns, 4 of which had no serial numbers, 41 high-capacity magazines, and parts for the manufacture of AR15 assault rifles and Over 18,000 rounds of assorted ammunition.  35 year old Jordan O’Neill of Sidney was taken into custody Thursday; his prior felony conviction prohibited him from possessing firearms. O'Neill was charged with 1 count of 1st degree Criminal possession of a weapon & 41 counts of 3rd degree Criminal possession of a weapon, he was arraigned in Village of Sidney Court where he was remanded to the Delaware County jail on $125,000 cash bail or $250,000 Bond. The investigation is continuing & more charges & arrests are expected.

Delaware County Sheriff’s Deputies and members of the Andes Fire Department responded to a 911 report of a two car motor vehicle accident on Main Street in the Village of Andes on July 5th.  38-year-old Gleb Temkin of Andes lost control of his vehicle and struck a legally parked vehicle, he is accused of operating a motor vehicle while intoxicated at the time of the accident, he was charged with DWI, refusal to take a breath screening test, failure to keep right, among other charges, Temkin was released & will appear in the Town of Andes Court on a later date.

State Comptroller Tom DiNapoli's office conducted an audit of the Town of Oneonta Clerk's office.  The audit showed that the clerk properly recorded all the fees auditors reviewed and remitted all fees collected during the audit period in a timely manner, however, the clerk did not always deposit fees within the required time frame.  Also, an audit was conducted of the Laurens Fire District, where the audit showed that the board did not establish adequate controls over financial activities did not segregate key duties or implement adequate mitigating controls & did not contract for an independent audit of its 2019 records, as required by law, or provide for an annual audit of the treasurer's records.

A.M. NEWS FRIDAY 7-9-21

New York State has reached a settlement with Purdue Pharmaceuticals over the company's role in falsely marketing its products to get more Americans hooked on opioids. The owners of Purdue Pharma, the Sackler family, will be required to pay $4.5 billion over the next 9 years, with New York State expected to receive at least $200 million as part of Purdue's bankruptcy process.  Funding from the settlement will be used to fund prevention, treatment and recovery programs

The Rotary Club of Sidney and the Cullman Developmental Center are teaming up to create a series of events for area children this summer, the 1st is this Sunday at Sidney Veterans Memorial Park from 1:00 to 3:00 PM, with the Family of Heroes Event,  Rotary Spokesman Larry Halbert explains;

(Larry Halbert 7-9-21)

Halbert said that other events will be held on July 25th & August 7th & 22nd.

The Unadilla Valley School District Board of Education has hired Brenton Taylor as the new District Superintendent.  Taylor replaces long time Superintendent Bob Mackey, who announced his retirement earlier this year.

The Otsego County Household Hazardous Waste Days will be held in August this year.  Collections will be held on Friday August 20th at the Unadilla Town Barn & Saturday August 21st at the Meadow Office Complex in Cooperstown.   To volunteer to help call 282-4087, more information is available by emailing solidwaste@otsegocounty.com

The Delaware County Chamber of Commerce is celebrating the "Grand Re-Opening" of businesses after the recent removal of COVID pandemic restrictions, with a series of ceremonial ribbon cuttings all over the County, Chamber President Ray Pucci explains:

(Ray Pucci 6-30-21)

Pucci said that his team will start the series Saturday in Roxbury, next Tuesday in Stamford & Wednesday in Sidney, Walton & Delhi, Thursday in Margaretville, Fleischmann’s, Arkville & Hobart & they will conclude the series on Friday in Hancock & Andes.

The American Red Cross continues to experience a severe blood shortage, Donors of all blood types; especially type O are urged to make an appointment to ensure hospital shelves are stocked with blood products over the Fourth of July holiday and beyond.   Appointments can be made by using the Red Cross Blood Donor App, visiting RedCrossBlood.org, calling 1-800-RED CROSS.  Blood drives this week include Tuesday in Sidney at the Fire training Center on River Street from 12:00 to 5:00 PM, Tuesday in Oneonta from 1:00 to 6:00 PM at the Foothills Performing Arts Center on market Street & Wednesday in Morris from 12:00 to 5:00 PM at the Episcopal Church, at 162 Main Street.

A New Jersey fugitive was arrested June 19th by Delaware County Sheriff's Deputies following an incident in the Town of Colchester.  Deputies responded to a report of a vehicle in the East Branch Delaware River near the Corbett bridge, the Investigation revealed that a New Jersey couple were attempting to drive their pickup across the river when it became partially submerged and disabled in deep water, also a passenger, 30 year-old Brian Olin, of New Jersey was wanted by authorities in Hunterdon County, New Jersey, on an outstanding warrant for failure to appear in court on a felony drug charge in September, 2019.  Olin was charged with being a fugitive from justice and was later arraigned and remanded to the Delaware County Correctional Facility without bail pending his extradition by New Jersey.

Otsego County Sheriff's deputies arrested 36 year old Thomas Palmatier of South New Berlin, for Fleeing an Officer in Motor Vehicle, Aggravated Unlicensed Operation, Unregistered Vehicle & several other similar charges, following a recent traffic stop in the Town of Pittsfield.   Palmatier allegedly drove off from the traffic stop while emergency lights were activated; he was issued appearance ticket returnable to the Town of Pittsfield Court at a later date.

Otsego County Sheriff Deputies arrested 48 year old Brett Brooks of New Berlin after providing Deputy’s with false information of his identity in the Town of Pittsfield on June 13th.  Brooks was a passenger in a vehicle that had been stopped; he had an active bench warrant issued out of Chenango County & gave a false name to law enforcement. Brooks was issued an appearance ticket returnable to the Town of Pittsfield Court & was turned over to the custody of Chenango County Sheriff Office for the warrant.

The State Board on Electric Generation Siting and the Environment will meet on Thursday at 10:30 AM in Albany, the meeting will be available for public viewing at dps.ny.gov, The Siting Board agenda includes the Application of High Bridge Wind, LLC for a Certificate of Environmental Compatibility and Public Need to Construct a Wind Powered Electric Generating Facility in the Town of Guilford.

The National Weather Service reported that a "large tree" fell on a house near the intersection of Neal Road and Route 26 in the Town of Pitcher Thursday Afternoon.  The Chenango County Sheriff's Office responded & no injuries were reported, several storms passed through the region yesterday afternoon & through the overnight hours.

Chenango County Sherriff’s Office Deputies arrested 48 year old Jeffrey Bolster of Sidney after investigating a complaint of 2 horses that were stolen from Guilford.  Good Samaritan’s found the horses & brought them to their home & contacted the Sheriff’s Office, deputies determined that Bolster owned the horses; a Veterinarian determined that the horses were receiving inadequate care and nutrition.   Bolster relinquished custody of the horses after being charged with Overdriving, torturing and injuring animals; failure to provide proper sustenance, & other similar charges, Bolster was issued an appearance ticket for Guilford Town Court at a later date.

State Comptroller Tom DiNapoli released the latest Municipal Audits, Locally; Otsego County officials adequately assessed the impact of the pandemic on financial operations while developing estimates for revenues and expenditures in their 2021 budget.  DiNapoli's Audit of the East Meredith Fire District stated that the board did not establish adequate controls over cash receipts and disbursements, did not segregate duties or provide oversight to ensure the treasurer accurately recorded transactions.   The Audit of the Franklin-Treadwell Fire District reported that district officials had good controls over disbursements, the board did not always provide adequate oversight of the treasurer's activities & their Board of Fire Commissioners did not properly segregate duties over disbursements that could lead to

inappropriate transactions.

A.M. NEWS FRIDAY 6-4-21

Delaware County Public Health announced their weekly COVID statistics Thursday.  They had 12 new cases in the last week, with 16 active cases, 3 hospitalized & 23 in quarantine.  Delaware County has had a total of 2397 cases since the pandemic started with 47 deaths & 2334 recoveries.

Village of Delhi Police Department arrested 28-year-old Andrew Kreger for Reckless Driving, Endangering the Welfare of a Child and Improper Passing. Kreger was released on appearance tickets returnable to the Delhi Town Court at a later date.

Delaware County Board of Elections announced that the Local Primary Election date is June 22nd, with the polls will be open from 6:00 AM to 9:00 PM. Primary races include the Republican Party primaries for the Town of Colchester Council & the Walton Superintendent of Highways. More information is available at 832-5321, sample ballots are available delcony.us/departments.

The Sidney Chamber of Commerce announced their annual winners at their meeting Tuesday, the Non-Profit award winner is the Sidney Library, Head Librarian Beth Paine commented:

(Beth Paine 6-3-21)

The Sidney Chamber announced Erin Insinga of the Delaware Valley Humane Society is the Citizen of the Years winner, East Main Lanes as the Business of the Years winner & Sidney School Superintendent Eben Bullock as the "Better Together" award winner, the Chamber is tentatively planning their annual Dinner in September.

A.M. NEWS 6-3-21

State Police responded Tuesday Night to the Perch Pond Cemetery on Nabinger Hill Road in Colesville for a report of a vehicle that struck a tree. 20 Year old Joshua Klee of Nineveh was the only occupant and was pronounced dead at the scene.

Go Cart Racing is returning to Action Park East on River Valley Lane in the town of Greene tomorrow, local businessman Brandon Clapperton is reviving the races:

(Brandon Clapperton 4-28-21)

Clapperton said that more information is available on the Action Park East Facebook page.

Chenango County Department of Public Works announced that starting May 24th, Cold In-Place Recycling will begin on County Road 17, between State Route 206 and State Route 41 in the Towns of Bainbridge and Afton.  The procedure should take 3 days to complete and weather permitting.   The traveling public is asked to find alternate routes if possible.  Local traffic shall be allowed to and from their homes.  More information is available by calling Director of Public Works Shawn Fry at 337-1710.

Fire Fighters from Sidney & Unadilla responded this afternoon, at around 2:00 PM, to the report of a barn fire, on the Back River Road, near Carr's Creek.  The fire was fully involved; WCDO will have more details as they become available.

Construction is continuing on the building of a new road in Sidney, Village Mayor Andy Matviak explains:

(Andy Matviak 5-7--21)

Mayor Matviak said that the money was promised to Sidney as long as the project was completed by February of 2022.

The Utica Comets confirmed Thursday that they have entered into a 10-year agreement with The New Jersey Devils to move their AHL team back to Utica, and the request was approved by the AHL Board of Governors. The board also approved the move of Vancouver's AHL team, from Utica to Abbotsford, British Columbia.  The move leaves Binghamton without an NHL affiliation after the seasons.

Sidney Village residents can drop off certain items  at the Village Garage on Sherman Avenue today & tomorrow from 8:00 AM to 3:00 PM, accepted items include Computer monitors, TV’s, Copiers, Fax Machines, Cell Phones, Radios, Microwaves, Gaming Devices, Metal & non-Freon appliances.  More information is available on the village of Sidney website.

The Virtual Town Hall with Congresswoman Claudia Tenney has been rescheduled to Today, from 2:00 to 3:00 PM.   Commerce Chenango President & CEO Kerri Green comments:

(Kerri Green 4-8-21)

Registration is required at commercechenango.com; Congresswoman Tenney is also planning to tour UHS Chenango Memorial Hospital for a look at their renovations.

The Town of Sidney will hold a public hearing tonight at 7:00 PM, regarding possible zoning law changes affected Sidney Center, Sidney Town Supervisor Gene Pigford commented:

(Gene Pigford 4-8-21)

The Sidney Town Board Meeting will be held at the Town Hall on Grand Street in Sidney & it will also be available on Zoom.