WCDO Radio News

The Bainbridge American Legion VA Clinic will be closing on December 1st, & Area Veterans can go to the Binghamton VA Clinic at 203 Court Street, or the the new VA Clinic located at the Fox Care Center, in Oneonta. Peter Potter of the Stratton VA Center in Albany said that the new Oneonta location is a better alternative:

(Peter Potter 11-28-22)

Potter said that Veterans should contact the Bainbridge clinic by Thursday & let them know where to transfer their records,

The Susquehanna SPCA will launch its year-end fundraiser starting tomorrow on Giving Tuesday aiming to raise $100,000 to support the animals at the shelter, with matching contributions from two special community members. Beth and Gary Glynn will donate an additional $5,000 to the shelter for every $20,000 raised during the Promise for Parkie campaign, in memory of their late dachshund, Parker. The fundraiser runs from Nov. 29 to Dec. 31 in place of the shelter’s traditional Save A Life Campaign, more information is available at sqspca.org, or by calling 547-8111.

The new "Bainbridge Athletics" will open this weekend at the site of the former Bainbridge Great American Store, owner Steve Cafasso told WCDO News what he has set up:

(Steve Cafasso 11-28-22)

The facility will open Saturday, more information is available at bainbridgeathletics.com.

A.M. NEWS MONDAY 11-28-22

Governor Kathy Hochul announced that more than $68 million has been awarded to support 74 projects across New York State through the Regional Economic Development Council initiative, The application for Empire State Development Grant funds remains open, and applications are being reviewed on an on-going basis until funds are exhausted, more information is available at apps.cio.ny.gov.

State Comptroller Tom DiNapoli audited the State Department of Labor regarding their failure to replace its long-troubled Unemployment Insurance system, which contributed to billions of dollars in improper payments sent out during the COVID-19 pandemic. The audit recommended the Department recommended the replacement of the system, take steps to improve the verification process to stop fraudulent claims, Department officials generally agreed with the audit’s findings and recommendations.

The State DEC announced that November 15th will be recognized as New York Recycles Day.. The DEC is working with SUNY partners to increase the ability to recycle items like glass, paper, and plastics, and to increase education to the public on best practices for recycling, more information is available at dec.ny.gov.

A.M. NEWS Tuesday 11-15-22

Oneonta police announced that 50 year old Taver Brown of Oneonta died last Thursday morning in a bicycle accident in Huntington Park. Brown died from head & neck injuries in the bicycle crash, he was not wearing a helmet, he was pronounced dead at the scene.

Attorney General Letitia James, as part of a coalition of 40 attorneys general, today secured $391.5 million from Google for misleading millions of users about its location data tracking. A multi-state investigation found that Google failed to notify users that location tracking services were automatically turned on for web and app activity. Millions of consumers with Google accounts who used Google's apps, such as Google Maps, Google Search, Google Chrome, and other Google apps, were unaware that their location was being tracked.

An American Red Cross Blood drive will be held today, from 12:00 PM from 5:00 PM at the State University of Oneonta, at 101 C Hunt Hall. Appointment can be made with the Red Cross Blood Donor App, visiting RedCrossBlood.org or calling 1-800-RED CROSS.

Early voting began Saturday for the November general election, with New York voters casting their ballots for governor, state Senate and Assembly, as well as congressional offices & some town board seats. Early Voting ends Sunday November 6th, more information is available at elections.ny.gov.

The State DEC announced that remaining Deer Management Permits in several Wildlife Management Units will be available to hunters starting Tomorrow. Deer management Permits allows hunters to harvest antlerless deer, in Specific Wildlife Management Units to control deer populations. More information is available at dec.ny.gov/outdoor/hunting.

U.S. Senate Majority Leader Charles Schumer announced that Upstate New York will receive over $50 million in federal funding through the first round of the EPA's Clean School Bus Program to purchase over 130 brand new electric school buses. Locally, the Downsville central School District will receive over $395,000 for the purchase of 1 new electric school bus.

A.M. NEWS MONDAY 10-31-22

Today is Halloween, in Sidney trick or treating will be from 5:00 to 8:30, in Oneonta, trick or treating will be from 3:30 to 8:00 PM, with a parade on Main Street at 6:00 PM. In Bainbridge this year, a community Halloween Party Trunk or Treat will be held in the Village parking lot behind Bob's Diner, from 5:00 to 7:00 PM. In Unadilla, Trick or Treating with a costume parade will be held at the Unadilla Elementary School starting at 6:30 PM.

P.M. NEWS MONDAY 10-10-22

44 of New York State's 62 counties are already reporting cases of the flu, according to the state Health department. Health officials encourage New Yorkers to get the flu vaccine, with the flu starting a little earlier than normal, and especially as high rates of COVID 19 are still being reported statewide. Southern Tier counties are sill reporting an 8.35% COVID 19 positivity rate, more information about the flu, COVID 19 % other healthcare issues can be found at health.ny.gov.

New York Attorney General Letitia James took action today to maintain the Concealed Carry Improvement Act, after a federal judge granted a temporary restraining order last week. James said that the Act was passed by the State Legislature and was enacted this summer, with requirements for concealed carry permits, prohibits guns in sensitive places, requires individuals with concealed carry permits to request a property owner's consent to carry on their premises, enhances safe storage requirements, requires social media review ahead of certain gun purchases, and requires background checks on all ammunition purchases.

The State DEC issued an update on drought conditions across the state. The State’s Drought Management Task Force updated the drought status to “Normal” from “Drought Watch” for multiple regions including most of upstate New York because of recent rainfall and higher levels of ground and surface water. The following counties will return to Normal designations: Broome, Chenango, Delaware & Otsego Counties locally.

The 2022 New York State Fallen Firefighters Memorial Ceremony will honor 11 firefighters Tuesday in Albany, who gave their lives in the line of duty. With the addition of these 11 names, the Memorial will honor 2,631 individuals who lost their lives in the line of duty.

The State DEC announced that a Free Fishing Day is scheduled statewide Saturday, anyone can fish the fresh waters of New York State and no fishing license is required. All other freshwater fishing regulations still apply, more information can be found at dec.ny.gov.

State Police responded Friday to State Route 17 west to a crash involving several vehicles. In the 1st crash, vehicles were stopped on State Route 17 due to a construction barrel in the road, a vehicle was unable to stop and struck the rear of a vehicle, causing 2 vehicles to spin, 1 of them hit the guide rail, the other vehicle, struck a different vehicle and pushed it into 1 of the original vehicles. 2 drivers were taken to Wilson Hospital with non-life-threatening injuries, 2 other drivers were injured, & were treated at the scene.

State Police were dispatched Saturday to assist Cherry Valley Fire with a hiker who had fallen from a waterfall down about 150-feet into a gorge. 1st responders hiked about a mile through a wooded area to locate the 32-year-old woman from Troy, she was pulled to safety and was airlifted to Albany Medical Center, where she was treated & released.

The fire at the Minnewaska State Park Preserve was contained on Sunday, according to the Governor's office. The State DEC Forest Rangers are leading the incident response in cooperation with the Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation, Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services, State Police and many other State and local partners. Response actions in the area will continue in the coming days with a smaller force of state and local experts as fire control efforts advance. More than 200 firefighters, bulldozer operators, pilots, and other professional staff and volunteers have been working to contain the fire.

The Out Of The Woodwork Players announced that auditions will be taking place soon for "A Suessified Christmas Carol". Auditions for will be held Saturday September 10th from 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM, and Friday September 16th from 6:30 to 8:00 PM, in the Bainbridge Town Hall Theater, many roles are available for children, teens and adults. The performances will be held in December.

P.M. NEWS THURSDAY 9-1-22

Broome County Sheriff David Harder has appealed the State Supreme Court’s Decision to force the county correctional facility to resume in-person visitation. A recent State Supreme Court ruling stated that the Broome County Correctional Facility must allow visitors to be able to see their jailed friends and family beginning on September 5th, as COVID did not have the same threat of transmission level as it did in the beginning. Visitation was suspended in March 2020 as the COVID-19 pandemic began closing down businesses, schools, government offices and organization worldwide & virtual visitation was permitted at the Broome County Facility.

State Senator Peter Oberacker marked Women’s Equality Day by announcing Delaware County Undersheriff Kim Smith as the 2022 New York State Senate “Woman of Distinction” from the 51st Senate District. Smith started as a part-time corrections officer with the Delaware County Sheriff’s Office in 1997. She was named as the Delaware County's 1st female Undersheriff by Sheriff Craig DuMond in May of 2022. The complete list of 2022 honorees is available at nysenate.gov/women-of-distinction.

Chenango County Sheriff's Office arrested 55 year old Kevin Washington of Sherburne on an active Arrest Warrant Tuesday. Washington was arrested in Sherburne after being located by Detectives, he was taken into custody without incident. The Village of Sherburne Court issued the warrant after Washington failed to appear on previous charges, he was arraigned in the Village of Sherburne Court and was released & was ordered to appear in court at a later date.

A.M. NEWS THURSDAY 9-1-22

New York's new gun laws are enacted today, following the U.S. Supreme Court's decision to strike down the state's century-old pistol permitting process. The laws contain strengthened background checks and firearm safety and live-fire training for individuals seeking to obtain concealed carry permits; prohibit concealed carry permit holders from bringing their firearms into sensitive locations, including bars, libraries, schools, government buildings and hospitals, among others; and require renewal or re-certification of permits every three years, More information is available at gunsafety.ny.gov.

Commerce Chenango will hold their next Business After Hours Event today. The event will run from 5:00 to 6:30 pm at the Friends of Rogers Environmental Education Center on State Route 80 in Sherburne.

The State DEC announced that open hunting seasons are starting up. Hunting season begins for Squirrel and Canada goose today, with early bear and antlerless deer seasons starting on September 10th, in certain wildlife management units. More information is available at the State DEC website.

P.M. NEWS WEDNESDAY 8-31-22

State Supreme Court Justice Peter Lynch today suggested a prison sentence of 16 months to 4 years was appropriate for Nauman Hussain, the owner of Prestige Limousine, who operated the limo in the 2018 Schoharie crash that killed 20 people. In September 2021, Hussain pleaded guilty to 20 counts of criminally negligent homicide as part of a plea deal, he was sentenced to 2 years of probation and 1,000 hours of community service. Hussain's attorney decided to vacate that plea follow the judges suggestion, they will meet September 14th to discuss a date for a trial.

The Centers for Disease Control confirm that Sullivan County is the latest New York county to test positive for Polio, Sullivan County has a 62.33% polio vaccination rate, their residents are urged to get vaccinated. New York State reported the first polio case in the United States since 2014, when an unvaccinated Rockland County man was hospitalized after traveling in Europe in July. The CDC began testing Rockland County residents and water samples, polio has also been found in Orange County and New York City wastewater, and testing is continuing.

The Out Of The Woodwork Players announced that auditions will be taking place soon for "A Suessified Christmas Carol". Auditions for will be held Saturday September 10th from 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM, and Friday September 16th from 6:30 to 8:00 PM, in the Bainbridge Town Hall Theater, many roles are available for children, teens and adults. The performances will be held in December.

New York Motorists are reminded, as school gets ready to return in the coming weeks, that it is illegal to pass a New York School Bus that has its flashing lights on & is receiving or dismissing students. The 1st conviction can result in a $250 to $400 fine, 5 points on a license, and up to 30 days in jail, a 2nd conviction within 3 years could result in a $600 to $750 fine, 5 points on a license, and up to 90 days in jail.

A.M. NEWS WEDNESDAY 8-31-22

The Broome County District Attorney's Office announced that 44 year old Michael Carley of Johnson City and South Carolina pleaded guilty to Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance. Carley was stopped for a traffic violation, he was wanted on an unrelated warrant and was taken into custody, he was also found to be in possession of methamphetamines. Carley will be sentenced to 2 years in New York State and 2 years of post-release supervision on November 28th.

The State Health Department reported that the COVID 19 positivity continues to trend downward, down to 4.78%, the 7 Day Average Positivity rate to 6.35%, Patient Hospitalizations were down to 2,329, with 248 ICU patients, with 94 on ventilators.

Governor Kathy Hochul announced the deployment of the New York Army and Air National Guards To support fire suppression efforts at the 150-acre wildfire currently burning in Minnewaska State Park Preserve in Ulster County. 2 Army National Guard Black Hawk helicopters, capable of dropping 600 gallons of water at a time, began aerial operations, the Air National Guard have been deployed, the State DEC Forest Rangers are serving as Incident Commanders, with more than 200 wild-land firefighters and volunteers, local firefighters, the Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services, State Police Aviation, and State Fire also fighting the fire.

P.M. NEWS TUESDAY 8-16-22

Nicholas & Terry DeCutler were arraigned in Otsego County Court Monday on 2nd degree Murder charges. The Brothers are accused of fatally stabbing 24 year old Kaleb O'Neill in an alleyway at Dietz Street in Oneonta on Memorial Day. The DeCutler's were being held on Bail in the Otsego County Jail pending a court appearance on September 19th.

The State DEC has expanded its Drought Watch to about 2/3rds of the state's land, as dry weather conditions continue. The watch now includes all of the counties south of the Mohawk River Valley, & excludes those in the Adirondacks, Eastern Great Lakes, Westchester County & New York City. DEC Officials are encouraging residents in affected counties, particularly those dependent on private groundwater wells, to conserve water whenever possible during the coming weeks. No mandatory restrictions are in place under a state drought watch.

A.M. NEWS Tuesday 8-16-22

Broome County District Attorney Mike Korchak announced that 35-year-old Jason Johnson of Nineveh has been found guilty of attempted murder & several other charges for the shooting of State Trooper Becky Seager on June 9th , 2021. Troopers responded to East Windsor Road for a welfare check, Trooper Becky Seager was shot in the hip, which was followed by a 19-hour manhunt, Johnson was found the next day at State Route 79 near the Susquehanna River in the town of Colesville.

US Senator Chuck Schumer announced Thursday that a federal bill designed to bolster semiconductor manufacturing passed in the House of Representatives after passing in the U.S. Senate Wednesday. The bill would allow the United States to better compete with international rivals & keep technology jobs in America, the . Schumer said that the White Pine and the Marcy nano center In New York, should greatly benefit after President Biden signs the bill.

The State DEC announced that the beach at Glimmerglass State Park on Otsego Lake has been closed for swimming due to a Harmful Algae Bloom. DEC officials said that other beaches on the lake at 3 Mile Point, and Fairy Springs remain open, but are being monitored.

The Sidney Police Department & State Police, participated Thursday in the "Go for the Gold" event at the Dunkin Donuts Location at the Speedway convenience store at State Route 7 and 8. This fund raising event benefits the Special Olympics of New York, the local effort raised $1,967 for the athletes of the Special Olympics.

A.M. NEWS FRIDAY 7-29-22

The 1st Chenango County Wine, Beer, and Food Festival presented by Commerce Chenango Tourism will be held Saturday at the Chenango County Fairgrounds in Norwich from 11 am. to 7 pm. Commerce Chenango President & CEO Kerri Green explains:

(Kerri Green 7-29-22)

More information is available at Chenangowbffest.com, or on their Facebook, Twitter or Instagram pages.

An American Red Cross Blood Drive will be held in Oneonta today, from 12:00 Noon until 6:00 PM, at the Quality Inn, on State Route. To donate blood, download the American Red Cross Blood Donor App, visit RedCrossBlood.org, call 1-800-RED CROSS.

P.M. NEWS THURSDAY 7-7-22

The State Department of Health updated New Yorkers on its strategic response to the current monkeypox outbreak. In accordance with the CDC guidance, The Department released vaccine eligibility for the initial doses of the vaccine from the federal government, prioritizing communities with the highest level of need & they will continue to communicate with providers and local county health departments, expand access to resources, and encourages increased testing and treatment of suspected monkeypox cases. More information is available at at health.ny.gov/monkeypox.

Governor Kathy Hochul today announced the availability of $255 million in state grants for critical water infrastructure projects that will protect public health and the environment through the State's Water Infrastructure Improvement programs. This announcement marks the latest action to upgrade New York's water and sewer systems, reduce water pollution and safeguard vital drinking water supplies from emerging contaminants and toxic chemicals.

41 year old Bradley Cook of Oneonta was sentenced to 20 years in state prison and 15 years of post-release supervision, Cook was convicted on 2 counts of a first-degree criminal sexual act.

The application period is now open for New York State's entry-level law enforcement civil service exam, will be held in the fall. Qualified candidates can apply online until August 3rd. The exam is used to fill jobs for the DEC for Environmental Conservation Police Officer Trainee & Forest Rangers, in the Parks Department for Park Police Officer Trainees & in SUNY for University Police Officers. Approximately 400 entry-level law enforcement positions statewide will be filled over the next year.

The state DEC is not doing enough to ensure rechargeable batteries are recycled as required by law, according to an audit by State Comptroller Tom DiNapoli. Rechargeable batteries can contain toxic metals such as mercury, lead, cadmium, nickel and silver, and lithium-ion, all of which can pose a threat to the environment and human health and safety if they are not properly recycled. If they’re just put in the garbage and enter the waste stream, they can end up in landfills and their chemicals can leak into public water systems, lakes and streams. Lithium-ion batteries can ignite or explode if they are damaged in the waste stream and were the cause of a six-alarm fire on a trash barge in December 2021.

The Norwich DRI Local Planning Committee will be holding their next meeting on Tuesday, July 12th at 3:30 PM in the Community Room at Commerce Chenango at 15 South Broad Street in Norwich. At this meeting, the LPC will officially vote on the final slate of projects to be recommended for DRI funding and included in Norwich’s Strategic Investment Plan. This meeting is open to all members of the public, with time reserved at the end of the meeting for public comment. The meeting will also be available through ZOOM.

A.M. NEWS THURSDAY 6-30-22

Governor Kathy Hochul has signed a proclamation calling lawmakers back to Albany for a special session Today, after the Supreme Court deemed New York State’s concealed carry law unconstitutional because it required proper cause to carry a handgun outside a person’s home.

The State Health Department is reporting a slow increase in COVID 19 cases, with over 5800 positives tests out of over 72,000, for a 7.8.% positivity rate Tuesday. Patient Hospitalization have gone back over 2000 statewide, ICU patients were back up to 186, with 73 on ventilators, there were 12 deaths in hospitals & nursing homes.

State Police arrested 19-year-old Edward Gaydos for allegedly breaking into Smoker’s Choice in Oneonta. On June 26, state police were called to the scene around 2:30 AM, Gaydos was charged with 3rd-degree burglary, He was released on his own recognizance and is scheduled to appear in court on July 7.

State Police issued a statewide alert for 53 year old Norman Wilson, who is wanted for questioning in a robbery last month in Onondaga County. Wilson is wanted regarding a robbery on 4th in Brewerton, & he is expected to be charged with 1st degree Robbery, unlawful imprisonment, conspiracy & criminal possession of a weapon, Wilson is a white male, 6-foot-2 and 220 pounds, with brown hair and hazel eyes. Anyone with information is asked to call police at 315-366-6000 or email Crimetip@troopers.ny.gov.

Southern Tier 8 Regional Board is holding the first-ever Upstate Rural Broadband Conference that will bring national and state, and regional leaders together to identify ways to speed-up the deployment of high-speed networks in Central New York and the Southern Tier. The event will be held next Tuesday, from 8:30 AM to 4:00 PM at the Doubletree Hotel, 225 Water Street, Binghamton.

Governor Kathy Hochul today announced a Free Fishing Weekend in New York State this Saturday & Sunday, the 2nd of 6 scheduled free fishing weekends this year. New York residents and non-residents are permitted to fish for free without a fishing license, all other fishing regulations remain in effect. For more information go to dec.ny.gov.

NAC Entertainment announced their 2022-2023 M&T Bank Broadway Season this week, Spokesperson Tina Niles told WCDO News what shows are scheduled:

(TINA NILES 6-24-22)

The 1st show, Fiddler on The Roof will by on November 8th & 9th, more information on upcoming shows, visit BroadwayInBinghamton.com or 607-772-1391

A.M. NEWS Friday 6-24-22

The State Department of Health announced updated clinical guidance for use of the Pfizer and Moderna COVID-19 vaccines in children down to 6 months of age. Following the FDA authorization and CDC'S recommendation, Children 6 months to 4 years of age are eligible for 3 shots of the Pfizer vaccine, the initial 2 doses are administered 3 weeks apart, followed by a 3rd dose administered at least 8 weeks later, Children 6 months to 5 years of age are eligible for 2 shots of the Moderna vaccine, given 1 month apart.

New York State Economy Added 27,200 Private Sector Jobs in May & the Unemployment Rate Decreased from 4.5% to 4.4% Over the Month, according to the State Department of Labor. The number of private sector jobs was back up just under 8 Million, the number of unemployed in the state dropped to 414,800 in May.

State Police in Troop C arrested 63 year old Candy Barklow of Apalachin for Aggravated Vehicular Assault. Troopers were dispatched on June 6th to a report of a vehicle that struck a man working on his front lawn when he was struck. Barklow fled the scene, the victim was taken to Wilson Medical Center with serious injuries. Barklow was arrested about 25 minutes later by Vestal Police for DWI, Barklow was transported to Tioga County Central Arraignment and Processing.

A.M. NEWS THURSDAY 6-16-22

Over 1600 customers of NYSEG in Otsego, Delaware, Broome & Chenango Counties were without power this morning, due to the overnight storms, crews have been working to restore power, this afternoon, the number of customers without power was down to about 280.

State Police responded at about 7:00 PM last night to a report of a tractor trailer rollover on Interstate 81 north near McGraw, No injuries have been reported. The driver of the tractor trailer has been arrested for Driving While Intoxicated. DEC spill response was called in for cleanup, The investigation is on going.

Democratic Party Chairmen across the 19th Congressional District chose Ulster County Executive Pat Ryan to run for the seat in a special election on August 23rd. Republican County Committee Chairmen have chosen Marc Molinari as their candidate for Congressional seat, that was vacated when Antonio Delgado became State Lieutenant Governor.

The State Department of Transportation is advising motorists that beginning Monday, the on and off ramps at Exit 5 of Northbound I-81 and U.S. 11 will be closed for approximately one week to facilitate a bridge replacement project in the Town of Dickinson. Signed detours will be in place during the ramp closures. Motorists are urged to slow down and drive responsibly in work zones. Fines are doubled for speeding in a work zone.

State Police issued 13,688 tickets statewide during the Memorial Day Weekend traffic enforcement campaign. Troopers arrested 213 people for DWI and investigated 808 crashes, including 142 personal injury crashes and eight fatal crashes, which killed eight people. 965 people were ticketed in Troop C locally.

A.M. NEWS FRIDAY 6-10-22

Today & Tomorrow, the village of Sidney will celebrate its 250th anniversary with a host of events, Teri Schunk & Anna Banks told WCDO about today's scheduled activities:

(Teri Anna Friday)

Saturday has a full line up as well, More information is available at the Sidney Chamber of Commerce Facebook Page.

Saturday is the annual Get Outdoors & Get Together Day with State DEC at Rogers Center in Sherburne. The free event features fishing, kayak and canoe demonstrations. Saturday is also the date for the 2nd annual Shredding Event at Rogers Center, where people can bring unwanted old paper documents and shred them for free in the Rogers Center parking lot from 9:00 AM to 12:00 Noon, for more information go to FriendsofRogers.org.

An American Red Cross Blood drive is being held in Oneonta today from 1:00 to 6:00 PM at the Quality Inn, at State Highway 23. To schedule an appointment to donate, download the Red Cross Blood Donor App, visit RedCrossBlood.org or call 1-800-RED CROSS.

P.M. NEWS THURSDAY 5-26-22

State Police Will be out in full force over the Holiday weekend with patrols on the highways, watching for drunk drivers, districated drivers and others failing to obey the laws, Troop C Major Jeffrey VanAuken comments:

(Major VanAuken 5-26-22)

Major VanAuken said that the state highways are also busy on the Memorial Day Weekends, which is the unofficial kick off of the summer driving season.

State Police responded to State Route 23 in the town of Davenport at about 4:00 this morning, for a report of a tractor trailer vs. passenger vehicle collision. As a result of the head on collision, a 43-year-old female passenger of the van was pronounced deceased at the scene. The operator of the passenger vehicle was transported by helicopter to a hospital with leg and pelvis injuries. The operator of the tractor trailer suffered minor injuries. The investigation is ongoing.

The State University of New York needs to make sure its campuses are upholding in-state residency requirements so that only eligible students receive the benefit of a lower tuition, according to an audit by Comptroller Tom DiNapoli. The audit found that many campuses had little or no verification of residency for SUNY graduate students, resulting in tuition undercharging. Auditors randomly sampled 1,207 graduate student application assessments from the 7 campuses, the problem was confined to 4 schools, including SUNY Binghamton, The sample translates to a potential $1.3 million in tuition undercharges. The full report can be found at osc.state.ny.us.

Governor Kathy Hochul convened an emergency meeting with State Police, to discuss additional ways to protect schools, following the latest school mass shooting in Texas on Tuesday. Hochul said that State Police will increase patrols and conduct daily check-ins at schools. Hochul said that since forming the Interstate Gun Task Force, State Police have seized 60% more guns per month than before the Task Force was formed, this year, State Police have seized over 4,100 illegal firearms.

The State DEC has released proposed Regulations that will prevent County Solid Waste Management Departments from building new or expanding existing landfills, Delaware County Department of Public Works Commissioner Sue McIntyre told WCDO News that the proposal is not doable:

(Sue McIntyre 5-26-22)

McIntyre said that Delaware County has been progressive with Composting & recycling programs removing more than 50% of items out of the waste Stream & these regulations will still make it difficult for them even to deal with future garbage from Delaware County residents.

The State DEC reported that there were over 211,000 deer harvested during the 2021-22 hunting season, which is a 17% decrease from the previous Hunting Season's numbers. Officials said that some reasons for the decline was the resurgence of a Disease in Deer in certain regions of the State and the overall lower number of Deer Management Permits that were granted to prospective hunters. The full deer harvest in the State can be found at dec.ny.gov.

Antonio Delgado officially became the state's Lieutenant Governor this afternoon in New York City. Delgado stepped down as 19th district Congressman prior to being sworn into his new position.

The CDO Workforce Development Board, ONC BOCES, The State Labor Department and other organizations will hold 2 free apprenticeship roundtable events in June. The June 15th roundtable will take place at ONC BOCES in Milford. The June 16th roundtable will take place at SUNY Delhi.  Both events will take place from 9:00am to 11:00am, more information is available at cdoworkforce.org.

A.M. NEWS WEDNESDAY 5-25-22

The Latest COVID strains have pushed the state's Positivity rate back up to 10.45% Tuesday, with almost 6000 positive cases in over 57,000 tests. Patient Hospitalizations are over 2700 & there were 27 more deaths in Hospitals & nursing homes Tuesday. The CDC Reports over 71,000 New Yorkers have died from COVID.

The American Red Cross has 2 more local blood drives today. One drive is being held at the DCMO BOCES on State Route 206 from 3:30 to 7:30 PM, another is being held at St. Mary's Church on Elm Street in Cooperstown from 12:30 to 5:30 PM. To schedule an appointment, go to Red Cross Blood Donor App, visit RedCrossBlood.org or call 1-800-RED CROSS.

P.M. NEWS FRIDAY 5-13-22

State Police have arrested a woman who allegedly stabbed a man inside Stewart's in Sherburne last night. State Police said that an Investigator walked into the Stewart's when he saw a man and a woman physically fighting. He attempted to separate the two when the woman stabbed the man. The Investigator restrained the woman and store employees called 911. The victim, identified as 56 year old Daniel Purdy of Sherburne was transported to Upstate Medical Center in Syracuse with serious but non-life threatening injuries. 25 year old Jessica Collins of Sherburne was charged with 1st Degree Assault, She was processed and transported to Chenango County Jail. State Police were assisted on scene by Chenango County Deputies, the investigation is continuing.

The State DEC reminds area residents that in spite of the fact that the Burn Ban ends Saturday, weather conditions are still favorable for the spread of brush fires. A Brush Fire spreads when conditions remain dry, with brisk winds & difficult terrain are prevalent.

The Raymond Corporation was recently honored by New York State Skills USA with a Distinguished Service Award for their support and contributions to career and technical education. Raymond received the award during the NYS Skills USA Championships showcase in Syracuse, last month, more information is available at raymondcorp.com.

New York State honored 49 police officers who recently sacrificed their lives in service to New York State. The 49 officers honored Tuesday in Albany represented 6 Police Agencies, the Police Officers Memorial in Albany now includes the names of 1,717 men and women from 150 police departments across New York State.

School District will ask for voter approval of their budgets next Tuesday State Wide, with many also adding propositions for building projects or vehicle purchases, and also for Board of Education seats. Locally Bainbridge Guilford Superintendent Tim Ryan told WCDO News that they were able to keep the tax levy increase under the state cap:

(Tim Ryan 5-13-22)

Ryan said that the BG Budget totals $21.4 million dollars, voting will be from 12:00 Noon until 9:00 PM at Greenlawn Elementary & Guilford Elementary Schools on Tuesday.

A.M. NEWS FRIDAY 5-13-22

Delaware County Sheriff’s Deputies responded to a 1 car property damage automobile accident on County Highway 14 in the Town of Franklin on May 5th. Deputies determined that the vehicle crossed over the dividing lines, entered into the oncoming lane of travel, struck guardrails, causing it to become disabled. 53-year-old Dorian Stewart of Unadilla was operating the vehicle with a suspended license and in an intoxicated state, she was charged with failure to keep right, aggravated unlicensed operation and operating a motor vehicle while under the influence of drugs. Stewart was released on tickets returnable to the Town of Franklin Court at a later date

The State DEC is reminding area residents that the annual burn ban remains in effect until May 14th. The ban was implemented more than a decade ago to prevent wildfires during a traditionally dry & windy period of the years, when brush fires can start & spread quickly. The State Rangers recently ticketed an Unidentified Town of Hartwick man who attempted to get rid of Blueberry bushes on his property by burning them.

State Police announced that Construction season is here again and Operation Hard Hat will return. Motorists can expect to see workers on the roadway rain or shine, & State Police will be manning the work zones to help keep work zones safe. Police remind motorists to follow the signs, slow down, and stay off electronic devices. & that fines are higher for those who speed in work zones.

On April 28th 2022, members of the Delaware County Sheriff’s Office Criminal Investigation Division received a report that an assault occurred in the Delaware County Correctional Facility involving two inmates. Martin Planty Jr, of Walton assaulted another inmate by striking the other inmate, causi9ng injuries to the victim's face and chest. On Tuesday, Planty was charged with 2nd degree Assault, he was arraigned at the Town of Delhi Court, he was returned to the Delaware County Correctional facility.

A.M. NEWS WEDNESDAY 5-4-22

State Police made 3 arrests during an Underage Drinking Initiative in Chenango County last Friday. Alcohol was sold to a minor at 3 Norwich establishments; Nazzitto’s Wine & Liquors, Norwich Fresh Market & South End Wine & Liquor, An appearance ticket was issued to each clerk who sold alcohol to the minor. 10 other business were in compliance in Sherburne & Norwich.

P.M. NEWS FRIDAY 4-29-22

A joint investigation with State Police Investigators at Sidney and Binghamton has led to the arrest of 32-year-old James Blackman of Afton. Troopers received a report accusing Blackman of inappropriate behavior with children, the investigation revealed that Blackman allegedly raped and sexually abused 2 children under the age of 11 on multiple occasions in Chenango County. Blackman was charged with 2 counts of Predatory Sex Assault Against a Child, 4 counts of Criminal Sex Act, 2 counts of Sex Abuse, and 2 counts of Endangering the Welfare of a Child. Blackman was arraigned and remanded to the Chenango County Jail.

A State DEC patrol caught 30 teenagers holding a party with alcohol on Friday, April 22, at the Charles Baker State Forest in Sherburne. The group included teens ranging in age from 15 to 19 years old, including an unidentified 18-year-old from Norwich, who allegedly had 3 cases of beer, who was charged with underage possession of alcohol in a State Forest.

A.M. NEWS FRIDAY 4-29-22

The HALos Board of Directors announced their Open House at their facility at 146 Main Street in Afton tomorrow, Spokesperson Joyce Humphrey comments:

(Joyce Humphrey 4-26-22)

More information about HALos is available by calling (607) 639-4256.

The State Department of Transportation is advising motorists that starting Today, eastbound traffic on I-88 will be crossed over to the westbound lanes from just west of Exit 19 in Worcester to Exit 21 in Richmondville. The crossover will result in one lane of travel in each direction, the on-ramp at Exit 20 eastbound will close, followed by the westbound off ramp at Exit 19. The crossover and ramp closures are expected to be in place for approximately 5 months. Motorists are urged to slow down and drive responsibly in work zones.

The State Health Department have included Broome and Tioga counties in an "orange zone" designation for counties at high risk of transmission of the latest strains of the COVID-19 virus . 10 counties have been designated orange, The Broome County Health Department reported 677 new confirmed cases of the virus since the middle of last week, with 31 people hospitalized on Friday & a 7 day positivity rate of 9.5%.

The State DEC are reported sightings of the invasive Southern Pine Beetle, which is native to the southeastern U.S. They are known as destructive pests and pose a significant risk to New York’s pine forests. The DEC said that infestations are spreading and most recently were found in Saratoga County, as well as several locations in the Hudson Valley. DEC and the Office of Parks, Recreation, and Historic Preservation said they will be closely monitoring multiple State Parks.

The US Census Bureau reported the top 5 states where Former New York residents have moved to over the last 2 years. The number 1 state that New Yorkers relocate to is New Jersey, nearly 60,000 people moved out of New York into Jersey. Florida was the in the 2nd position, followed by Pennsylvania, California & Connecticut.

Delaware County Sheriff’s Deputies on patrol in Delhi observed a vehicle fail to stop for a stop sign, failing to signal a turn & traveling through a parking lot to avoid the intersection. Deputies identified the driver as 18 year old Mikaela Duran on Brooklyn, Duran had a BAC measured at .15%. she was charged with DWI & driving with a BAC of .08%, operating a motor vehicle after consuming alcohol under age 21, as well as several other infractions, Duran was released on tickets returnable to the Town of Delhi Court at a later date.

A.M. NEWS MONDAY 4-18-22

The State Office of Fire Prevention and Control, the Otsego County Office of Emergency Services & the Worcester Fire Department have determined the cause of the recent fire in Worcester was accidental. It was determined that the fire originated from an electric appliance that was in use at Hidden Memories at 143 Main Street, the fire destroyed 3 downtown buildings.

A new state law goes into effect today that will fine motorists with vehicle mufflers and exhaust systems modified to make them louder than the stock applications. The maximum fines for installing the illegal equipment will increase from $150 to $1,000, and if repair shop owners are caught installing the equipment three times within 18 months, they risk losing their certificate of inspection stations and operating certificate. The legislation also adds a requirement for inspection stations to check motorcycles for mufflers and exhausts that have been illegally modified.

A judge has ordered New York’s Democrat-controlled Legislature to redraw the state’s congressional and legislative districts after finding they were unconstitutional. Judge Patrick McAllister ruled that maps redrawing the state’s congressional districts were gerrymandered to benefit Democrats, he gave lawmakers until April 11 to draw new maps, if those fail, the judge said he would order the state to pay for a court-approved expert to redraw the maps.

Beginning Today, the State DEC will be adopting changes to fishing regulations, including year-round fishing for Atlantic salmon as well as other lake and pond fish. Ice fishing will also be permitted on all waters, except for a few limitations. There are also new season opening dates for several species of fish, as well as changes to harvest sizes. The full list is available on the DEC's website.

Assemblyman Joe Angelino of Norwich joined other Republican legislators, law enforcement and prosecutors recently in Albany to call on the governor to make changes to the bail reform law as part of the 2022-23 State Budget. Angelino told WCDO News that the Bail Reform Bill passed by then Governor Cuomo 2 years ago, has backfired:

(Joe Angelino 3-31-22)

Angelino Said that judges need more discretion on bail like they did before, Judges should be able to require bail for violent defendants and those who repeatedly break the law. Additionally, Angelino said that changes should include Bail for Gun Crimes, an Additional 5 Years for committing a felony while possessing a loaded firearm, and no parole of anyone who sexually assaults and murders a child under 18 years of age.

The State's new solitary confinement law goes into effect tomorrow. The HALT Act of 2021 restricts the use of solidarity confinement for all incarcerated people for up to 15 days. The State Correctional officers union opposes the measure, saying that 15 days is sometimes insufficient for an inmate to be rehabilitated & returned to the general jail population after a violent offense while incarcerated.

The deadline to pass a State Budget plans is April 1st. Governor Hochul proposed a 216 Billion dollar spending plan back in January, some items that could be passed in the budget are changes to the state's controversial Bail reform Law from 2 years ago, a suspending of the state's portion of the Gasoline Tax, one proposal even calls for State Car & Truck owners to get $250 check to offset high gas prices.

A.M. NEWS THURSDAY 3-31-22

The State DOT announced that the State Route 79 bridge over the Chenango River, will be replaced by a new structure. The $12.6 Million project will replace an old bridge that runs from the Town of Fenton to the Town of Barker in Broome County, the new bridge will connect from the Town of Fenton to the Town of Greene about a half mile from the existing location.

The State DEC is warning area residents that it's time for black bears to come out of hibernation. DEC recommends taking down bird feeders & bringing trash cans indoors to avoid attracting bears looking for food.

P.M. NEWS MONDAY 3-21-22

Governor Kathy Hochul today announced that the State Liquor Authority is now accepting applications for new permits to allow craft beverage manufacturing businesses the ability to manufacture and sell alcoholic beverages while their liquor license is pending. These new permits can generally be processed and approved in less than 30 days, compared to applications for new licenses that currently take an average of six months, expediting the time it takes to open a new craft beverage manufacturing businesses throughout the state.

The State Health Department is warning New Yorkers about a potentially deadly virus found in ticks in New York State. This year, Ticks may carry the Heartland virus, which causes symptoms in humans such as fever, nausea, diarrhea, joint pain, and low white blood cells. The State Health Department reports that in tick-infested areas, avoid contact with soil, leaf litter and vegetation, Wear light-colored clothing with a tight weave, Wear enclosed shoes, long pants and a long-sleeved shirt. Consider using insect repellent, Avoid contacting vegetation & Avoid sitting directly on the ground or on stone walls.

The Joint Commission on Public Ethics passed a motion Friday that orders former governor Andrew Cuomo to repay royalties from his book deal. The move is the second time the commission has ordered Cuomo to repay his earnings from the book, “American Crisis: Leadership Lessons from the COVID-19 Pandemic.” JCOPE gave Cuomo approval to write the book in July 2020, he earned $5.1 million from the book, but an investigation by the State Assembly found that the book was written in part by state employees during their off-hours. Following the investigation, JCOPE rescinded the book’s approval. Cuomo’s team denied the allegations.

Beginning April 1st, the State DEC will be adopting changes to fishing regulations that will make fishing easier for New Yorkers. Changes include year-round fishing for Atlantic salmon as well as other lake and pond fish. Ice fishing will also be permitted on all waters, except for a few limitations. There are also new season opening dates for several species of fish, as well as changes to harvest sizes. The full list is available on the DEC's website.

After a 2 year absence, The National Baseball Hall of Fame announces the return of the 2022 Hall of Fame Classic, scheduled for Saturday, May 28th at Doubleday Field. Hall of Fame members Wade Boggs, Fergie Jenkins, Jack Morris, Tim Raines and Ted Simmons will be joined by at least one additional Hall of Famer as well as recently retired players representing all 30 major league teams for a seven-inning legends game at Cooperstown’s historic Doubleday Field. Tickets are available via phone at 1-888-325-0470 or by a link at baseballhall.org. The schedule features a pre-game Home Run Contest at noon, followed by the first pitch at 1:05 p.m.

A.M. NEWS MONDAY 3-21-22

The State Health Department reported that 119,475 were tested for COVID 19 with 2,013 positives on Saturday, for a positivity rate of 1.68%. Patient Hospitalization are down to 900 statewide, with 159 ICU Patients, with 77 on a ventilators. New deaths reported by healthcare facilities was 12

Governor Kathy Hochul wants to expand the number of bail-eligible crimes, and give judges more discretion to consider the criminal history of those accused of serious felonies. Bail reform may be be modified in the state budget, which is due on April 1st.

P.M. NEWS WEDNESDAY 3-16-22

The State Comptroller's Office conducted an audit of the State Department of Health, they found that the Department was unprepared to respond to infectious disease outbreaks at nursing homes, even before the COVID-19 pandemic hit New York. A lack of funding for public health forced the Department to operate without critical information systems and staff that could have identified and helped limit the spread of COVID-19 at nursing homes, also the department did not provide the public with accurate COVID-19 death counts and became entangled in the undercounting of those deaths as Governor Cuomo took control of information provided to the public. The Auditors believe that the actual number of nursing home residents who died is still uncertain.

The Afton Community Theater & the Tri-Town Theater are teaming up for "Into The Woods" later this month in Norwich. Cast Members Sarah Norris and Mikaela Sepulveda talked about the characters they portray in this musical, on the WCDO Morning show this morning:

(Sarah Mikaela 3-26-22)

The show will be at the Martin W. Kappel Theater in Norwich on Friday & Saturday Nights, March 25 & 26th with a Sunday Afternoon Matinee on March 27th, Tickets are available at tritown.booktix.com more information is also available on their Facebook Page.

A.M. NEWS Wednesday 3-16-22

Norwich City Police officers conducted a traffic stop on Mitchell Street Friday Morning, the driver left the vehicle & ran, & was apprehended after a short foot pursuit. Norwich police charged 23 year old Dylan Keenan of Bridgewater for criminal possession of a controlled substance, obstruction of governmental administration and aggravated unlicensed operation of a motor vehicle, plus Keenan was wanted on several outstanding warrants from different police agencies. Police confiscated methamphetamines packaged for sale, Keenan was processed & was was released on an appearance ticket, but was turned over to State Police for additional processing on the warrants.

The New York State Department of Labor released preliminary local unemployment rates for January 2022. The State’s seasonally adjusted unemployment rate decreased from 5.4% in December 2021 to 5.3% in January 2022. Delaware & Chenango Counties reported at 4% Unemployment, Otsego had 4.1% unemployment in January.

The State DEC announced that the annual brush burning ban begins in New York State today, the ban runs through May 14 this year, more information is available at dec.ny.gov.

Chenango County Sheriff's Office arrested 36 year old Daniel Rice of Plymouth for allegedly attempting to have sexual relations with a 15 year old female. Deputies responded following a complaint of a man making arrangements to perform sexual acts with a 15 year old victim in the Town of Norwich. Rice was charged with Attempted Rape & Attempted Dissemination of Indecent Material to a Minor, he was arraigned in the Town of Norwich Court and remanded to the Chenango County Correctional Facility on $20,000 cash bail. Rice is due back in the Town of Norwich Court at a later date.

The State Comptroller's office announced that Federal Relief Aid paid to New York State reversed the usual trend last year, when New York State sent more money to Washington than it received. In 2021, New York Received $1.59 for Every Tax Dollar Sent to Washington, Federal Fiscal Year 2020, Still Below National Average of $1.92. New York’s Per Capita Balance of Payments Rank Among States Rises to 40th from Near Last Place

The State DEC announced that the annual brush burning ban begins in New York State next week. The brush burning runs from March 16 through May 14 this year, more information is available at dec.ny.gov.

Catholic charities announced that there will be another Mass Food Distribution in Sidney later this month. Penny McKnight from Catholic Charities said that volunteers are needed:

(Penny McKnight 3-9-22)

The Mass Food Distribution will be at 11:00 AM at the Sidney River Street Fire Station, anyone interested in volunteering should email CALLEN4@stny.rr.ccom or call Catholic Charities at 607-604-4071.

Due to today's Storm, the Town of Guilford Board meeting, originally scheduled for tonight, has been moved to tomorrow night, at 7:00 At the Town Hall on Marble Road.

A.M. NEWS WEDNESDAY 3-9-22

The State Health Department reported that 67,714 COVID tests were conducted Monday, with 1,060 positives, for a positivity rate of 1.57%. Patient Hospitalization were 1,507, with 251 Patients in ICU and 138 on ventilators & 17 deaths in Hospitals & Nursing homes.

Community Cultural Center in Sidney won a $2,000 grant from Upstate Shredding through their Southern Tier Tuesdays program. Southern Tier Tuesdays is a philanthropic endeavor of Adam Weitsman, owner of Upstate Shredding, more information is available at southerntiertuesdays.com.

A New Sienna College Poll reports that 58% of New Yorkers Polled believe that the state should wait until early March before deciding whether to lift the school mask mandate, compared to 30% who say the school mask mandate should have ended already, and 10% who want to see it end after this week’s school break. On New York’s indoor public mask mandate 45% say that the mandate should still be in place, compared to 31% who say it should have ended already and 20% who say it ended at the right time. Also in the New Poll, 60% say crime is a very serious problem, 31% said it’s somewhat serious. By a 65-27% margin, voters say ‘the bail reform law should be amended to give judges more discretion regarding bail.

State Comptroller Tom DiNapoli today released a report showing that New York’s environment and sustainability initiatives are creating new green occupations, as well as creating additional demand for existing occupations and changing the skills required to fulfill others. In total, these occupations made up over 17% of all jobs in the state pre-pandemic. He urged the state to fund more educational and workforce development programs to grow the green economy and help bolster New York’s pandemic recovery. DiNapoli’s report found that the number of jobs influenced by the green economy in New York exceeded one million in 2019 and 2020. The report can be found at osc.state.ny.us.

The Musical version of "AN OFFICER AND A GENTLEMAN" hits the stage tonight for the 1st of 2 performances at the Forum Theater in Binghamton, Tina Niles of NAC Entertainment comments:

(Tina Niles 2-23-22)

Show Times will be at 7:30 tonight & Tomorrow Night, tickets are available at the Box Office or through ticketmaster.com.

A.M. NEWS WEDNESDAY 2-23-22

Governor Kathy Hochul announced the creation of a Joint Security Operations Center in Brooklyn that will serve as the nerve center for joint local, state and federal cyber efforts. The Center Will Serve as a 1st-of-its-Kind Hub for Data Sharing and Cyber Coordination Across the State, New York City, the 5 Major Upstate Cities, plus Local and Regional Governments and Federal Partners.

State DEC announced that the 2021 hunting seasons in New York were the safest ever, with the lowest number of hunting-related shooting incidents since record-keeping began. DEC Environmental Conservation Police Officers investigated nine hunting-related shooting incidents in 2021, including 1 fatality. 7 of the 9 incidents in 2021 were two-party firearm incidents; two incidents were self-inflicted. All identified shooters were experienced hunters with an average of 40 years of hunting experience, All incidents could have been prevented if those involved followed hunting safety rules.