WCDO Radio News

P.M. NEWS FRIDAY 5-1-26

The Chenango County Sheriff's Office arrested 38 year-old Zachary Lindow of Greene following an investigation into 2 separate incidents. Deputies responded Sunday to a reported domestic dispute in Greene, where Lindow allegedly subjected the victim to unwanted sexual contact and threats, he fled before deputies arrived, An arrest warrant was issued. On Monday deputies responded to a harassment complaint in Greene, also involving Lindow, he was located by the Broome County Sheriff's Office and he was turned over to the Chenango County Sheriff's Office and was charged with 2 counts of Aggravated Harassment, plus Sexual Abuse, 2 counts of Intimidating a Victim or Witness, he was was arraigned and released on his own recognizance. He will appear in court at a later date.

18 year old Kyle Whitmarsh of Dickinson is facing multiple charges following a motor vehicle theft in the Town of Fenton Monday. Broome County Sheriff’s Office Deputies observed a vehicle speeding out of the Red Apple parking lot, followed by another individual riding a minibike. Patrols located the minibike driver, who advised the deputies that his friend had stolen the car and driven to a nearby park, the owner of the vehicle also reported his vehicle was stolen. Whitmarsh was charged with Grand Larceny, Criminal Mischief, & Obstructing Governmental Administration, & face court action shortly.

The Susquehanna SPCA in Cooperstown is teaming up with the Bissell Pet Foundation this year, in an effort to get adoptable pets into their new homes, Susquehanna SPCA Executive Director Stacie Haynes told WCDO News hos the program works:

(Stacie Haynes 5-1-26)

Haynes said that people can go to their website to see a profile of their animals, at sqspca.org, the program runs today through May 17th.

The Village of Sidney Spring Cleanup will begin Monday through Friday May 8th. Village crews will pick up Brush Piled neatly at curb, plus leaves, grass clippings, weed-stalks & hedge trimmings placed in open containers or clear bags. All items must be out to the curb by Monday morning at 7:00 AM for pick-up. The Village will also provide containers at the Village Garage at 28 Sherman Avenue on Friday & Saturday, May 8th & 9th, from 8 AM – 3 PM, for electronics like Computers, TV’s, Cell Phones, Microwaves, Gaming Devices, plus Metal and non-Freon appliances, Tires, as well as Freon containing appliances like refrigerators, freezers & air conditioners.

Governor Hochul announced action to protect survivors of domestic violence, by selecting 5 counties including Delaware county to participate in a 2-year Coordinated Community Response Pilot Program. The effort will be led by the State Office for the Prevention of Domestic Violence, the initiative aims to help survivors access safety and support faster while ensuring accountability for offenders.

A.M. NEWS Friday 5-1-26

UHS Chenango Memorial Hospital in Norwich will hold their 7th "Community Baby Shower" for expectant parents & families with newborns, on Saturday, spokesperson Melissa Stagnaro explains:

(Melissa Stagnaro 5-1-26)

The Community Baby Shower will run from Saturday, from 10:00 AM to 1:00 PM at UHS Chenango Memorial Hospital, it is free and available for pregnant individuals, new parents, and families with babies up to 12 months old.

The annual "I Love My Park Day" is being held statewide tomorrow at a variety of locations. Locally, groups will help clean up Gilbert Lake State Park from 9am-12pm, at Glimmerglass State Park from 9:00 am to 1:00 pm and at the Rogers Environmental Conservation Center in Sherburne from 1pm-4pm, For more information, visit ptny.org

P.M. NEWS MONDAY 1-22-24

Broome County Sheriff Fred Akshar announced a new program today to combat domestic violence with assistance from the Crime Victims Assistance Center and the Family Violence Prevention Council:

(Sheriff Akshar 1-22-24)

Family Violence Prevention Council Coordinator Kristin Beylo commented that the program is patterned after one in Westchester County, and what the plans are for the program going forward:

(Kristin Beylo 1-22-24)

The program utilizes evidence-based screenings to help law enforcement better assess potential lethality by identifying common red flags, patterns and responses associated with domestic homicides.

Delaware County Sheriff's Office arrested 62 year old Bert Mullineaux of Walton on January 9th. Deputies were dispatched to a 1 car motor vehicle accident on Bobs Brook Road in the Town of Tompkins, Deputies determined that Mullineaux's driving privileges are revoked for DWI since 2006, he was charged with aggravated unlicensed operation of a motor vehicle, Moving from a lane Unsafely, and Speed not reasonable and Prudent, he will appear in Tompkins Town Court at a later date to answer those charges.

The Oneonta Department of Public Works announced a water main break on Bugbee Road near Crestmont Terrace this morning. Traffic was closed in the immediate vicinity & water was shut off for surrounding residents. More information will be available for area residents at 607-432-2100.

Delaware County Sheriff's Office arrested 31 year old Natalie Petruch of Andes following an investigation of an accident on January 18th on Arbuckle Hollow Road in Delhi. Petruch was charged with Operating a Motor Vehicle while intoxicated, moving from a lane unsafely, operating a vehicle with a BAC above .08% , she was released on appearance tickets for Town of Delhi Court at a later date.

A.M. NEWS MONDAY 1-22-24

Chenango County Sheriff’s Office announced the arrest of 22 year old Kaleb Weinmuller of Morris, for Rape, Criminal Sexual Act and Endangering the Welfare of a Child. The Chenango County Sheriff’s Office investigated a sexual abuse complaint in the Village of Oxford, where it was discovered that Weinmuller was 21 years old & performed sexual acts with a minor. Weinmuller was arrested and arraigned in the Village of Oxford Court, he was remanded on $25,000 cash bail & was transported back to Broome County Correctional Facility where he is currently being held on other charges.

An Otsego County ambulance was at the scene of a motor vehicle accident on I-88 Sunday in Schenevus when the ambulance was struck by a passing vehicle. The ambulance was parked on the shoulder of the roadway with its Emergency lighting activated. The crew was treating a patient from a previous accident in the rear of the ambulance when they were struck. Both providers were transported to an area hospital with non-life threatening injuries.

Delaware County Sheriff's Office arrested 28 year old Frank Mazepa of Morris on 2 counts of Criminal Possession of a controlled substance. On January 8, Deputies assisted the SUNY Delhi Police Department on a traffic stop in the Village of Delhi, it was determined that the passenger in the vehicle was in possession of a quantity of crack cocaine and heroin. Mazepa was released on appearance tickets for the Town of Delhi court at a later date.

The Broome County district Attorney's Office announced that on January 12th, in Broome County Court, just prior to trial, Craig Brigham of the Town of Maine, pleaded guilty to felony Attempted Robbery. On August 1st, 2022, Brigham entered the Vestal Walmart selected a backpack and miscellaneous merchandise. When an employee attempted to retrieve the stolen merchandise, Brigham pulled out a small aerosol can and threatened to pepper spray the employee. Brigham will be sentenced in Broome County Court on April 12th to 1.5 to 3 years at a state prison.

The Sidney Center Improvement Group annual meeting will be held tonight at 6:30pm at the Sidney Center Fire Hall. The meeting is open to the public and all are welcome to attend. The Improvement Group Board is seeking new members and more involvement in order to continue bringing programming, events and improvement projects to the Hamlet of Sidney Center and for the Town of Sidney.

P.M. NEWS THURSDAY 9-8-22

Governor Hochul announced that masks in New York will be "options" in some places that had previously been required. Masks are still required at healthcare facilities, nursing homes, correction facilities and domestic violence shelters. Local municipalities may chose to impllement masks rules in areas where the rate of transmission is higher.

The 28th annual Colorscape Chenango Arts Festival will be held this Saturday & Sunday in Norwich, Colorscape Chenango Vice President Laura Parker explained what makes this arts & music festival special:

(Laura Parker 9-9-22)

Parker said that the event is listed as one of the top 200 events in the nation by Sunshine Magazine, Parker's full interview with WCDO's Craig Stevens will air tomorrow morning in its entirety at 8:40 AM. More information about the 2022 Colorscape event can be found at colorscape.org.

The Rural Health Network of South Central New York announced their 2nd annual virtual fundraising event, “On the Hunt for Good Health.” The active phase of the event runs September 16th to October 2nd, where participants can choose from activities on the website or make up their own. The event website is p2p.onecause.com, all donations from this fundraiser will go to programs and services of Rural Health Network.

The SUNY Oneonta campus will reflect on the anniversary of the 9/11/2001 terrorist attacks & honor 7 SUNY Oneonta alums lost on that day. The event will be held at the 9/11 Memorial in the upper quad on tomorrow from 9:00 to 10:00 AM.

A.M. NEWS THURSDAY 9-8-22

Delaware County Sheriff's Deputies responded on September 3rd to Domestic Dispute in the Town of Hamden, between Christopher Yeary and a victim that had an Order of Protection against him. Yeary left the scene & Deputies located him a short time later, he physically obstructed uniformed police officers attempting to take him into custody, he was charged with Criminal Contempt and Obstructing Governmental Administration. Yeary was arraigned in the Town of Hamden and was remanded to the Delaware County Correctional Facility on $40,000 cash bail or $80,000 bond, pending future court action..

New COVID-19 vaccine boosters are available to New Yorkers which are designed to add Omicron BA.4 and BA.5 variants and bolster previous vaccination protection. The announcement follows the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's recommendation to use updated COVID-19 boosters from Pfizer for anyone age 12 or older and from Moderna for those 18 or older. To find a location near your home to get the latest shot, go to vaccines.gov. The State Health Department reported that the 7 day rolling average for those tested for COVID was just under 6%, with over 2200 hundred hospitalized, 235 were in an ICU bed, with 88 on ventilators.

Governor Hochul announced that start of the Fall Foliage & travel season in New York State. People can view Weekly I LOVE NY Fall Foliage Reports Available Every Wednesday, beginning September 14th, at iloveny.com.

The Broome County District Attorney’s Office announced Wednesday that 21 year old Brandon Carlson of Endwell was sentenced to 2 1/3rd to 7 years in jail and pay $45,000 in restitution, after pleading guilty to vehicular assault & attempted criminal possession of stolen property. On October 11th last year, Carlson stole a truck and led New York State Troopers on a high-speed chase, which ended when Carlson struck a car that caused a serious physical injury to the other driver, Carlson was found under the influence of methamphetamine during the incident.

Governor Cuomo today had former New York City Mayor Michael Bloomberg teleconferenced into his daily Coronavirus briefing, Bloomberg said that his Bloomberg Philanthropies, the Bloomberg School of Public Health at John Hopkins University, Vital Strategies & “Resolve To Save Lives” are teaming up with others, to for a "Tracing Army" to investigate those who came in contact with the latest people to test positive for the Coronavirus:

(Mike Bloomberg 4-30-20)

State Budget Director Robert Mujica discussed the issue of Child Care and summer camps, as Phase 1 is implemented to send back the first group of workers, who have children at home:

(Mujica 4-30-20)

New York State now has over 304,000 cases of the Coronavirus, with over 11,500 hospitalized, and another 306 deaths Wednesday bringing the state death toll to 18,321.

Chenango County Public Health announced today that they are up to 96 confirmed cases of the Coronavirus, they've had 3 deaths, 67 recoveries 7 people are hospitalized & 68 are quarantined.

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.

The Dick's Sporting Goods Open has been canceled for 2020.  The PGA TOUR Champions event was scheduled for August 10-16 at En Joie Golf Club in Endicott.  The Cancellation is due to the impact from the pandemic in the state of New York.  Anyone who has questions pertaining to tickets purchased for this year's event is advised to contact the Dick's Sporting Goods Open office at 607-205-1500.

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.

Delaware County Sheriff's department announced that a
51-year-old Town of Sidney man reported missing on June 27th was located
deceased on Wednesday afternoon.  Human
remains were discovered by utility line employees working in a wooded area near
the intersection of Lawton Hill Road and Franklin Depot Road in the Town of
Sidney.   Deputies and Investigators
identified the remains as those of Byron Furman who had been reported missing
from his Lawton Hill Road residence.
Delaware County Medical Examiner Dr. Richard Ucci determined that Furman
died of natural causes.

State Police and the DOT are continuing "Operation
Hardhat," as they try to crack down on work zone violations and promote
safe driving through active work zones on state highways.  State Trooper are patrolling active work
zones on I-81 in Broome and Route 17 in Tioga County; on Wednesday troopers
issued 21 tickets in the I-81 work zone on Interstate 81 in Broome County, 16
were cell phone tickets, 2 for the Move Over Law, 2 for Moving From a Lane
Unsafely & 1 for a seat belt violation.

Governor Cuomo today signed Erin's Law on to New York's
books today.  The law requires public
schools to teach age appropriate child sexual abuse and exploitation prevention
classes to students in kindergarten through eighth grade. Erin's Law is named
for Erin Merryn, who is an abuse survivor and activist against child sexual
abuse, the law will take effect on July 1, 2020.

The Bainbridge Chamber of Commerce will hold their annual
"Bainbridge Day" this Saturday with a variety of events around the
village, spokesperson Lori McGraw explains:

(Lori McGraw 8-31-19)

The event runs from 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM this Saturday
throughout the village of Bainbridge.
More information is available at 967-8700 or on the Bainbridge Chamber
of Commerce Facebook page.

Governor Cuomo signed a new law designed to spare victims of
domestic violence some penalties on some of their utility bills.  The law allows people fleeing their batterers
to terminate multi-year telephone or cable contracts at the home they're
leaving without paying a penalty; it covers victims who have received an order
of protection.  The law takes effect immediately.

The Broome County Sherriff’s
Office is warning people about a new phone scam where people posing as law
enforcement.  Victims are receiving calls
from a caller claiming to be a deputy & that the victim missed a jury duty
assignment and needs to complete paperwork and pay a fine to avoid being
arrested.  The caller requests the victim
to meet in the parking lot of the Sherriff’s office and wait there to pay the
fine.  The Sherriff’s department does not
collect fines and official transactions are processed inside their office.  Anyone who has received this call should
report it to 778-1191, extension 1.

U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand is dropping out of the
presidential race, after she failed to make the cut for the next Democratic
candidate’s debate next month in Houston. Gillibrand announced her decision on
Twitter also after low poll numbers and difficulty in raising funds.  Gillibrand was appointed to the Senate in
2009 to fill the seat vacated by Hillary Clinton, after she had served this
region in the U.S House of Representatives.

The Bainbridge Old Time Band will have their final
performance of the free concerts in the park series this evening.  The concert will start at 7:00 PM at the
Bainbridge Village Green Park.

The Chenango County Sheriff’s Office arrested 32 year old
Matthew Jones of Greene following a Burglary investigation.  Officers received a complaint early Monday
Morning that an individual was breaking into 45 Genesee Street in Greene; Jones
is accused of placing a ladder up to a window, breaking the window, and
entering the building. Deputies   &
Village of Greene Police responded, they located Jones leaving the area on
foot, after a brief pursuit, Jones was taken into custody, and a defaced gun
dropped near the scene was confiscated.
A search warrant was conducted on Jones’ residence, Officers seized a
2nd defaced handgun, methamphetamines, marihuana, & items reported stolen
from other local burglaries.  Jones was
charged with 2nd & 3rd degree Burglary, criminal possession of stolen
property, plus weapons & drug charges, he was arraigned and remanded to the
Chenango County Jail on $10,000 cash bail, more arrests are expected.

According to the State Department of Health reported cases
of the flu were up another 23% from the week before.  Statewide, more than 43,000 flu cases have
been confirmed this season, which covers the previous 19 weeks.

State Attorney General Letitia James announced that New York
is joining 15 other states in a lawsuit challenging President Donald Trump’s
national emergency declaration.  the
lawsuit claims that the President is threatening public safety with his move to
divert funding from military construction and other programs to pay for a
U.S.-Mexico border wall.  The lawsuit
alleges that the President is manufacturing a crisis and that his declaration
is an “unconstitutional and unlawful.”

The Delaware County Board of Elections reminds voters that
Governor Cuomo has signed into law that the state & local primary will be
held on the 4th Tuesday in June.  This
changes the dates for circulating and filing designating party petitions for
county, town and committee offices.
February 26th is the first day to circulate a designating petition for
the elected town and party committee offices that are up for election in
2019.  More information is available
through the Delaware County Board of Elections at 832-5321 or through town
party chairpersons, to get a petition if you wish to run for a town office or
party committee.

Chronic Wasting Disease has been
detected in wild deer, elk or moose in 24 states, including New York State,
according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.  The CDC is warning hunters to avoid handling &
they advise people not to handle or eat meat from deer and elk that seem sick
or have been found dead.   New York’s
cases were found in the North Country.

Governor Cuomo announced legislation expanding assistance
available for victims of hate crimes and certain other crimes associated with
domestic violence who were not physically injured during the crime, is now
effective.  The new law allows these
individuals to apply for reimbursement of shelter costs and crime scene cleanup
expenses from the New York State Office of Victim Services, previously, victims
who were not physically injured during the crime were only eligible for certain
OVS benefits if the charges included criminal obstruction of breathing or blood
circulation; certain menacing, harassment, aggravated harassment, criminal
contempt and stalking offenses; and hate crimes.

Congressman Anthony Brindisi invites constituents to an open
house at his Utica & Binghamton offices. The Utica Office Open House will
be Tuesday, from 4:30 to 5:30 pm at 430 Court Street, Suite 102, the Binghamton
Office Open House will be held Saturday, from 5:00 to 6:00 PM at 49 Court
Street, Suite 210 Binghamton.

The Board of Trustees of the Village of Unadilla tonight at
6:30 p.m. at the Unadilla Fire Station on Clifton Street, The board is
considering the adoption of Local Law No. 1 for 2019, to Amend chapter 47 of
the Code entitled “Animals” to allow chickens in the Village.

Governor Cuomo today announced that $15 million in
additional funding is available to help eligible New Yorkers heat their homes
following a spate of severe weather over the past month. Starting Today, households
in danger of running out of heating fuel or having their utility service shut
off may apply for a second emergency benefit through the Home Energy Assistance
Program. In addition, Governor Cuomo announced the extension of the application
period for both regular and emergency HEAP benefits until April 26.  More information is available at otda.ny.gov.

3 proposals were received by the Unatego School District for the sale of the former Otego Elementary School. Superintendent Dr. Dave Richards explains:

(Dave Richards 7-10-18)

Dr. Richards said that the proposals received were from the Kildonan School of Amenia, to turn the building into a school for Dyslexic children, from LPP Management for a mixed use facility & 2+4 Management for senior apartments.

State Police are investigating a 1 vehicle crash on State Route 357 in the town of Unadilla that troopers discovered while on patrol. The Unidentified 40 year old man apparently drove off the highway, into Guide wires & a tree, he was extricated by Unadilla Firefighter & he was airlifted to Wilson Hospital in Johnson City for treatment of head injuries & an arm fracture. The investigation is ongoing.

The Town of Sidney Offices, including the Court, has been moved into the New Sidney office building at 44 Grand Street. Sidney Town Supervisor Gene Pigford comments:

(Gene Pigford 7-10-18)

The next Town of Sidney Board meeting will officially be held in the 44 Grand Street location in Sidney. The moves were precipitated by the sale of the Sidney Civic Center to 2+4 Management Company, who have built senior apartments on the 2nd & 3rd Floors, which forced offices to move to the 1st floor, or out of the building into new locations.

Otsego County Sheriff's department arrested 36 year old Ryan Biggs of Gloversville following an accident in Worcester Sunday. Biggs is accused of driving mentally & physically disabled people in an ARC vehicle while intoxicated, he was charged with DWI & endangering the welfare of an incompetent or disable person, he was released & faces court action at a later date.

A Cortland man was found guilty by an Otsego County Jury for selling heroin & cocaine in the city of Oneonta recently. 34 year old Jason Chase was found guilty after the jury deliberated for about 40 minute, he was returned to the Otsego County Jail pending sentencing on August 3rd on 2 counts of criminal possession of a controlled substance.

Delaware County Sheriff’s Deputies arrested 28 year old Aaron Dumond of Denver New York for Tampering with Physical Evidence & Conspiracy, after a reported Assault in Roxbury in May. Dumond allegedly altered and concealed physical evidence; he was arraigned & was remanded to the Delaware County Jail on $20,000 cash bail or $40,000 bond pending future court action.

State Police at Deposit arrested 25 year old William Caiati of Tompkins, for Aggravated Family Offense, Criminal Mischief, Criminal Obstruction of Breathing and Harassment. A trooper responded July 4th to a domestic dispute, where 1 victim reported that Caiati placed his hands around her neck, restricting breathing and she was shoved to the ground and injured her wrist, Ciaiti is also accused of disabling the victim's phone. A second victim reported that he allegedly punched her when she attempted to intervene. Caiati left, but was located by phone & turned himself in, he was arraigned in the town of Deposit and remanded to the Delaware County Jail on $1000 cash bail. An order of protection was also issued.

State Police at Oneonta arrested 28 year old Kevin Matthews of Worcester for Unlawful Use of a Motor Vehicle. Troopers responded to a report of a vehicle that was taken without the owner’s permission, Matthews allegedly took the vehicle on July 4th, another vehicle in that driveway sustained damage. Troopers observed the vehicle on I-88 in Richmondville, they arrested Matthews for Driving while Ability Impaired by Drugs and other charges. Matthews was later turned over to troopers at SP Oneonta where he was arrested for Unlawful Use of a Motor Vehicle. He was arraigned in the Decatur Town Court and remanded to the Otsego County Jail on $1000 cash bail or $2500 bond.

State Senator Jim Seward joined officials from local domestic violence prevention programs Monday to announce state grants totaling $45,000 to help support key community services. The funding awards included: Opportunities for Otsego - $15,000; Catholic Charities of Delaware, Otsego & Schoharie Counties - $15,000; Delaware Opportunities - $7,500 & Liberty Resources in Chenango County - $7,500.

State Police at Sidney arrested 35 year old Ronald Greek of Dansville, for DWI with a reported B.A.C of .24%. A trooper on State Route 23 in Oneonta where Greek is accused of Speeding & being intoxicated, He was arrested & was released on appearance tickets for town of Oneonta Court on July 24th.

State Police at Sidney arrested 39 year old John Forte of Unadilla for Aggravated DWI with a reported B.A.C of .21%. Troopers were dispatched to a complaint of an intoxicated driver, a trooper located the vehicle in the driveway of a residence on Depot Street, Forte was arrested & was released on appearance tickets returnable to the town of Unadilla Court on July 23, 2018 then later turned over to a sober third party.

Thousands attended the Calling Hours & Funeral Services over the weekend for Trooper Nicholas Clark. Troopers & officers from various law enforcement agencies paid their respects, along with friends and family members, at the services held at Alfred University. Trooper Clark died in the line of duty last Monday while responding to the report of a suicidal man who had barricaded himself inside a home in Steuben County.

The American Red Cross is now facing an emergency blood shortage following a difficult Fourth of July week for blood donations; with hundreds fewer blood drives than a typical week and a resulting decline in donations. All eligible donors are urgently needed to give now to help replenish the blood supply. Locally, blood drives are being held today in from 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM at the SFCU main branch in Sidney; in Gilbertsville, from 1:00 to 6:00 PM, at the Christ Episcopal Church, In Delhi Wednesday from 9:30 am to 3:30 pm at the State University of New York Delhi O’Connor Center for Community Engagement, at 2 Main Street & Friday from 1:00 to 6:00 PM at the Delhi Rehabilitation and Nursing Center, 41861 State Highway 10

Norwich City police arrested an area couple for allegedly assaulting a child. Police were notified by the Chenango County Department of Child Protective Services, The child had been taken to Chenango Memorial Hospital’s Emergency room with injuries to the head & face, police arrested 31-year-old Marrianne Ray and 31-year-old Scott Ray of Norwich for 2nd degree Assault and endangering the welfare of a child, Both were arraigned in Norwich City Court and sent to the Chenango County Jail on $75,000 cash bail, they will reappear in Norwich City Court at a later date.

The trial of Dean & Adam Skelos continued Friday, with former Senate Majority Leader Dean Skelos taking the stand. Dean Skelos was convicted in his first trial for exchanging political favors in order to get his son Adam High Paying No-Show Jobs, a new trial was ordered after the US Supreme Court changed the definition of Corruption, leading to new trials for Skelos & Former Assembly Speaker Sheldon Silver.

The Town of Oneonta announced that they are flushing Hydrants starting today. Hydrants will be flushed in the Plains Parish, Morningside Heights & Angel Heights locations, local residents may have discolored water, they are advised to let the water run until it is clear, more information is available at 432-4581.

The Town of Guilford announced that the Town Office will be closed Tuesday. Officials with the town said that the office is closed due to a jury trial, more information is available at 895-9966.

The Town & Village of Unadilla announced road closures Tuesday & Wednesday. Highway Superintendent Rodney Renwick told WCDO News that Wendall Bachman & Buckhorn Lake Roads will be closed for paving, from 6:00 AM to 4:30 PM both days.

Governor Cuomo announced that New York's maple industry hit a 74-year record in 2018 with the production of 806,000 gallons of maple syrup. The maple industry in New York has grown by nearly 50 percent in the last five years and continues to maintain the state's standing as the second leading producer of fresh maple syrup in the nation. According to the USDA's National Agricultural Statistics Service, New York's maple production constituted about 19 percent of the national total. New York producers also benefited from a long season in 2018 which lasted 52 days, compared to 43 days in 2017

State Senator Jim Seward will be in Otsego County today at Opportunities for Otsego in Oneonta at 2:00 PM. Senator Seward will announce special state grants he secured to help fund local domestic violence prevention programs. Representatives from Opportunities for Otsego, Catholic Charities of Delaware, Otsego & Schoharie Counties, Delaware Opportunities, and Liberty Resources of Chenango County will join Senator Seward for the announcement. Senator Seward will also detail several legislative accomplishments from the past year to combat domestic violence and sexual harassment.

The Broome County Special Investigation Unit Task Force executed a search warrant in Port Crane, which resulted in the arrests of 31-year-old Brett Poyer & 30 year old Jodi Bickos. Officers seized 2.2lbs of methamphetamine, packaging materials, and paraphernalia at the residence, Poyer and Bickos were charged with Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance, and Criminally using Drug Paraphernalia, they face court action shortly.

State Assembly Republicans released the findings of a Domestic Violence Task Force, that conducted 5 meetings on the domestic violence crisis issue, Assemblyman Cliff Crouch comments:

(Cliff Crouch 1-24-18)

The Assembly Minority Conference will introduce a package of bills this session to address the issues facing victims of domestic violence and their families.

State Senator Fred Akshar will continue with his "Akshar's All-Stars" student recognition program Thursday at the Greene High School as well as the Union-Endicott High School & the Owego Free Academy. Each month, Senator Akshar recognizes three or four local students selected by their school districts in the 52nd Senate District who have shown great leadership, compassion, & school spirit. Akshar will appear at the Greene High School at 12:15PM Thursday.

The Tri-Town Coalition On Substance Abuse Prevention will hold their next meeting at the Sidney High School Library on Wednesday, January 31st from 6:00 to 7:30 PM. Topics of discussion will be the "Truth Pharm” Parental Education Program, a Review of the "Chasing the Dragon" documentary & planning for the 2018 year.

Magic City Productions announced today that Daughtry will play at the Broome County Forum on March 30th at 8:00 PM. Tickets will g o on sale on Friday morning at 10:00 AM at the Arena Box office, ticketmaster.com or 800-745-3000.

The Chenango County Sheriff’s Office has completed its investigation of Monday's fatal fire at 553 German Hollow Road in the Town of Plymouth. Investigators have determined the fire started in the area of a wood stove being used to heat the residence. It was also determined from autopsies that Debbie Pfeiffer, Amber Morrow and Benjamin Pfeiffer all died from smoke inhalation.

Delaware County Sheriff’s Deputies arrested 22 year old Nicholas Corrao of Stamford on 1 count of Endangering the Welfare of a Child following a report of child abuse in the village of Stamford. Deputies allege that Corrao acted in a manner which was injurious to the mental and moral welfare of a child less than 17 years of age. Corrao was issued an appearance ticket and is scheduled to reappear at the Town of Stamford court at a later date.

The State Labor Department released local unemployment rates for the month of December. Locally, Chenango County was up to 5.8%, Delaware County had 5.7% unemployment & Otsego County had 5.2% unemployment, the state rate was at 4.4% for December.

The Unatego School District Board of Education is holding a special vote today from 12:00 noon to 8:00 PM, in the Unatego Middle/High School building in Wells Bridge. Eligible voters in the Unatego district will vote on the leasing of 3 large and 1 small passenger school buses.

State tax collections through the first three quarters of the fiscal year are down, According to State Comptroller Tom DiNapoli. The decline was 2.2% or around $1.2 billion, which is about $30 million lower than mid-year projections. DiNapoli’s report showed that there was Significant increases in spending for Medicaid and other public health programs.

New regulations will be issued by the New York State Department of State, requiring structural inspections of above-ground parking garages. The State does not currently have laws or regulations requiring public or private parking garages to undergo structural inspections, only fire and general safety rules. The regulations follow the collapse of a parking ramp at Wilson Memorial Hospital in Johnson City in July 2015, and the November 2015 closure of the Collier Street parking ramp in Binghamton, due to safety concerns. The State Department of State will soon begin drafting the regulations.

The head of New York State’s Public Service Commission is stepping down to take a job in Australia. Audrey Zibelman announced her departure Monday, she will stay on until the end of March before going to work for the Australian Energy Market Operator, which oversees electricity and natural gas markets and networks.

Governor Cuomo announced the state would invest up to $20 million for major upgrades at Whiteface and Gore Mountains to attract more visitors to the upstate region in the winter time. The investments will enhance the current facilities at Gore and Whiteface Mountains and create state-of-the art skiing, lodging, dining and retail opportunities and year-round activities. The project will be the first major upgrade at both Whiteface and Gore in 30 years.

The Bainbridge-Guilford Central School will hold an information session in conjunction with the regular Board of Education Meeting tonight, which starts at 6:30 PM with the business portion of the meeting starting at 7:00 PM. A special Board Meeting will be held tonight for Board members to vote on SEQRA and the Capital Project, which will likely go before the public for a vote in March.

Chenango County Sheriff’s Deputies arrested Matthew Maclaury of Oxford for aggravated driving while intoxicated and DWI after a report of a 2-car accident on County Road 32 in the Town of Norwich it was found that Maclaury went off the roadway and struck a parked vehicle & that Maclaury was driving with a blood alcohol content of .18 or higher. Maclaury will appear in the Town of Norwich Court at a later date.

Attorney General Eric Schneiderman announced the guilty plea of 44 year old Darin Cox of Johnson City, who is the owner and operator of Broome Taxi, for his fraudulent actions in obtaining over $3,000 from the Medicaid system by operating his business without the licensing necessary to operate a taxicab in Broome County. Cox pleaded guilty to 1 count of Grand Larceny, he faces a sentence of up to 7 years in prison.

Governor Cuomo today announced the opening of the $12.3 million “Binghamton Gateway,” which is a 37-unit affordable housing development located on Front Street, for low-income New Yorkers, six of which are designed to support people who have physical disabilities. The project rehabilitated 11 buildings and constructed a new mixed-use building with 2 commercial storefronts and 10 residential units on the site of the former Lincoln Hotel that was destroyed by fire.

The State DEC announced the renewal of 2 general permits for technical programs designed to reduce the potential for water pollution on large livestock farms. The permits provide new requirements for Concentrated Animal Feeding Operations to ensure proper management of nutrients while increasing water quality protection. Governor Cuomo’s proposal for the $2 billion Clean Water Infrastructure Act of 2017 will also invest resources for drinking water and wastewater infrastructure and other water quality protection across the state, including funds for ensuring proper management and storage of nutrients such as manure on farms.

Gwen Wright, of the State Office for the Prevention of Domestic Violence will deliver Governor Cuomo's Regional Budget Briefing today in Delhi. The presentation will begin at 1:00 PM at SUNY Delhi.

The Otsego County IDA will hold a public hearing this morning on the State Eminent Domain Procedure Law at 11:00 AM at their offices at 189 Main Street, Oneonta. The purpose of the hearing is to outline and/or describe the proposed acquisition by the Agency of the parcels commonly known as the Ford Block at Market Street in Oneonta.

Local lawmakers are weighing in on the new state budget plan, area state senator Jim Seward comments:

(Seward 4-1-16)

Seward said that the Budget includes the Minimum wage increase to $15.00 an hour by 2021, something that was opposed to, he approves of the $1 billion dollar Middle Class Tax cut in the 1st year, which will reach $4.2 Billion dollars when implemented over the next several years.

The out of the woodwork players have assembled a 28 member cast for the play "A Funny Little Thing Call Love" Area Merchant & Local Theater veteran Rich Cooley told WCDO News that he read the script, loved it and then went about putting together the largest production in recent memory:

(Rich Cooley 4-1-16)

The play will be held at the Bainbridge Town Hall Theater Performances: Friday, April 15th & Saturday, April 16th at 7:00pm, and Sunday April 17th at 2:00pm. Tickets can be purchased at owptheatre@yahoo.com OR contact or at Cooley's jewelers on Main Street in Sidney at 563-1311.

The Delaware county fair comes back to the fairgrounds in Walton August 15ht to the 20th. Spokesman John Jackson said that tickets for the Saturday night concert go on sale tomorrow:

(John Jackson 4-1-16)

Jackson said that Reithoffers midways are back, as well as the demolition derby, Tractor and farm equipment displays and demonstrations, Livestock contests and encounters with over 1,000 animals, Food & a variety of Live entertainment each day.

Delaware County Sheriff Deputies arrested 57-year-old Calvin Wank of Deposit on 1 count of unlawful possession of marijuana, and 2 counts of criminal possession of a controlled substance. Deputies accuse Wank of possessing Cocaine, marijuana & Methamphetamine. Wank was arraigned at Deposit Town Court and was remanded to the Delaware County Jail on $1000 bail.

Delaware County Sheriff’s Deputies arrested 22-year-old Tyler Davis of Walton for 2 counts of Endangering the Welfare of a Child, 1 count of Sexual Misconduct & 1 count of Criminal Sexual Act. Davis was taken into custody at the conclusion of an investigation conducted by Delaware County Sheriff’s Office Criminal Investigation Division and Deputies. Davis was arraigned & was released to reappear at a later date.

Governor Cuomo announced a last minute agreement with legislative leaders on the 2016-17 state budget, which includes Raising the minimum wage to $15 an hour in every region of the state by 2021, Enacting a paid family leave policy, Holding the growth in state spending to 2%, Cutting the personal income tax, Providing $24.8 billion in School Aid, & ending the Gap Elimination Adjustment. The budget also includes Investing $55 billion in the largest state transportation plan ever approved – including $27 billion for the DOT and Thruway and $27 billion for the MTA of New York City.

The remaining law that completed the Women’s Equality Agenda package will take effect today. This measure creates a pilot program that would enable domestic violence victims to seek temporary orders of protection through electronic means rather than having to appear in person.

The New York State Department of Health announced that Commissioner Dr. Howard Zucker will lead a team of state and local health officials to a federal Zika Action Plan Summit to share strategies and best practices with colleagues from across the nation. The gathering will be held today at the Atlanta headquarters of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. There is increasing evidence that Zika is linked to a birth defect, in the developing fetuses of infected mothers. The State Plan includes distributing 100,000 larvicide tablets to eliminate mosquito breeding grounds; aggressively monitoring the mosquito population through trapping and testing; providing free Zika protection kits to pregnant women; deploying Rapid Response Teams wherever local mosquito transmission is confirmed; issuing emergency regulations requiring local Zika Action Plans; and launching a broad public awareness campaign.

State Police arrested 37 year old Brian Johns of Sidney & 43 year old Jason Rude of Unadilla for Trespassing. The arrest occurred after a complaint from a residence on Sanly Road in Franklin, , where both men were accused of walking near the residence while wearing dark clothing and possessing binoculars at night. Johns and Rude were arraigned in town of Sidney Court and were remanded to the Delaware County Jail on $1,000 cash bail. An order of protection was issued against both men.

The city of Oneonta has hired a new city manager, who will officially begin his duties on Monday. 54 year old Martin Murphy will start at an annual salary of $110,000. Murphy was most recently a Cortland County administrator. Murphy succeeds Michael Long, who retired May 29th

As the deadline to register to vote in next month's general election approaches, the State Board of Elections reminds residents to turn in their paperwork as soon as possible. The final day to register to vote for the Nov. 4 General Election is Oct. 10. Registration forms are available at elections.state.ny.gov. The forms can also be found at the post office, DMV site or by calling your county board of elections

Binghamton Police arrested a Broome County legislator for DWI after a crash involving a bicycle rider. 49 year old Anthony Fiala of Binghamton, was charged with DWI early this morning. The arrest was the result of a car and bycyle crash on the corner of Clinton and Oak streets in Binghamton. Fiala allegedly hit a bicyclist with his vehicle and left the scene. The unidentified rider received minor injuries and refused medical treatment. Police later located Fiala at his home on Stanley Street. Fiala was released on an appearance ticket at a later date

The Southern Tier Independence Center is offering help to those who are looking to enroll in the next round for the AMERICANS WITH DISABILITIES ACT. Center spokesman Chad Eldred explains:

(Chad Eldred 10-2-14)

Those who would like more information about the Center can call 724-2111 or log on at stic-cil.org.

Sidney village police & NYSEG are alerting residents of a scam, where a caller poses as a NYSEG representative to report a passed due bill & threatens to turn off electricity if a payment is not made. A second person will then pose as a manager to acquire personal financial information from the caller. NYSEG does not operate in this manner, if you should receive such a call, offer to call back at the phone number on your NYSEG Bill, do not give out financial information to unsolicited callers.

New York will mail a second rebate check to homeowners – the “Property Tax Freeze” credit. To qualify, homeowners must: Receive the Star Property Tax Exemption, The property must be the homeowner’s primary residence, The total household income must be $500,000 or less and The School District in which the property is located must comply with the state’s property tax cap. The check amount will be the actual increase in your tax bill with an inflation factor – whichever is greater. Homeowners whose tax bills go down, stay the same, or increase less than the inflation factor will receive a credit equal to the previous year’s tax bill with inflation

Governor Cuomo said October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month. The office for the prevention of domesitc violence works to raise awareness of the issue by launcing a campaign to turn New York State purple. Purple is the color chosen to help spread the message. The campaign is a low- or no-cost way for organizations to show their support for ending violence against women. OPDV provides free tools and resources that can be used by service providers, public and private businesses, government agencies, college campuses, community organizations and individuals. Go to opdv.ny.gov

Mang Insurance Agency officials announced that the company would now be known as NBT-Mang Insurance Agency. Mang became part of the NBT Bancorp organization in 2008, the name change requires no action from customers, and no services will be affected by the change.