WCDO Radio News

P.M. NEWS MONDAY 2-2-26

The Chenango County Sheriff’s Office has been made aware of a scam currently circulating, as Several county residents have reported receiving phone calls claiming they have an active warrant for their arrest and are instructed to pay a sum of money to have the matter “cleared up.” This is a scam, as the Chenango County Sheriff’s Office will never contact individuals by phone to demand payment.

The Binghamton Rumble Ponies announced an extension of 5 more years to the naming rights agreement with Mirabito. The new agreement also continues in with Visions Federal Credit Union, who is the title sponsor of the Starting Gate Box Office at Mirabito Stadium, Rumble Ponies GM Richard Tylicki explains:

(Richard Tylicki 2-2-26)

The new Agreement between Mirabito Energy Products and Visions Federal Credit Union runs through the duration of the Major League Baseball's Professional Development agreement with the New York Mets through 2030. Also today, tickets went on sale for Rumble Ponies games at Mirabito Stadium, more information is available at bingrp.com.

Local Film-makers Joe Stillman & Jeri Wachter will be showing 5 of their Documentaries on uniquely American Stories on Friday & Saturday at Foothills in Oneonta, Joe Stillman told WCDO News about the films:

(Joe Stillman 2-2-26)

The films include the Jimmy Massey Story, about a former Marine speaking out on abuses during the Iraq War, another about former US Attorney General Ramsey Clark, another about poverty in Agriculture, another about COVID 19's effect on Americans & the 5th about 500 years of history being rediscovered in South Texas. Jeri Wachter said that both of them will be there both Friday & Saturday at Foothills, Veterans can attend free and how tickets can be purchased:

(Jeri Wachter 2-2-26)

More information is available at important films media.com. the films will be run from 2:00 PM through 10:00 PM both days.

Governor Kathy Hochul today announced Empire AI campus partnerships between SUNY’s university centers, university colleges, technology colleges, and community colleges to advance artificial intelligence research and education for the public good. The State University of New York at Albany is partnering with SUNY Oneonta, SUNY Cobleskill Ag & Tech, and Hudson Valley Community College on 1 project, and The State University of New York at Binghamton is partnering with SUNY Cortland, SUNY Delhi, SUNY New Paltz, SUNY Oneonta, Broome Community College, and Tompkins Cortland Community College om\n another project.

A.M. NEWS MONDAY 2-2-26

Delaware County Sheriff’s Deputies arrested 30-year-old Daniel Roe of Davenport, who is accused of subjecting a juvenile to sexual contact in May 2024. Roe was also alleged to have subjected another juvenile to inappropriate sexual conversations during the same time frame. Investigators arrested Roe on 2 counts of Endangering the Welfare of a Child, 1 count of Forcible Touching, 1 count of Sexual Abuse, Roe was arraigned & Orders of Protection were issued for the victims. Roe was later released on his own recognizance and was directed to appear at the Town of Davenport Court at a later date to answer the charges.

Delaware County Sheriff's Office arrested 35 year old Shane Tweedie of Walton following an investigation into a stolen vehicle complaint reported in the Town of Bovina and was later located in the Village of Walton. Tweedie was located by deputies in the Village of Walton and he was charged with Unauthorized Use of a Motor Vehicle, Grand Larceny, Burglary, Criminal Contempt & Criminal Trespass, Tweedie was transported to the Delaware County Correctional Facility to await Centralized Arraignment Court.

City of Oneonta announced that crews will be installing new Rapid Flashing Beacons at crosswalks at the new roundabout project. Motorists should expect temporary lane closures at various times over the next two weeks, at Main Street East, Lettis Highway South, Main Street West through the roundabout and at Pine Street.

Otsego County Sheriff's Office arrested 19 year old Dayton Carney of Pittsfield, for Assault & Endangering the Welfare of a Child, following an investigation into an assault complaint in the Town of Milford. Carney was arrested and processed & was turned over to Corrections Staff to await arraignment, he will appear in the Milford Town Court at a later date.

P.M. NEWS WEDNESDAY 1-14-26

The Broome County Sheriff's Office announced that a former Broome-Tioga BOCES employee is facing additional felony charges after another juvenile victim was identified during an ongoing investigation into inappropriate conduct with BOCES students. 51 year old Evan Thorson of Endicott was charged with Child Endangerment and Official Misconduct, after the Sheriff’s Office followed up on a referral from the State Child Abuse Hotline regarding his conduct as a member of the Broome-Tioga BOCES faculty. Today, Thorson was charged with 3rd degree Rape & Criminal Sexual Act before being remanded to the Broome County Correctional Facility.

Governor Hochul announced plans in the State of The State Address Tuesday, where the State will partner with 3 counties in a new State pilot program to help counties offer additional child care options, which will include $60 million in State funding, along with new investments in each of the 3 counties, as they expand child care access with a particular focus on serving children 0-3:

(Hochul 1-14-26)

The 3 Counties are Dutchess County, Monroe County and Broome County, More information is available at governor.ny.gov.

State Police arrested Arthur Stewart for Unlawful Possession of a Noxious Matter. Troopers were dispatched to the town of Ithaca for a report of dispute, where a person was sprayed with bear spray in a staircase between apartments, following an on-going dispute when Stewart intentionally sprayed the victim in the face. Troopers also determined that the bear spray that Stewart used is illegal to carry for self-defense. Stewart was arrested and turned over to the Tompkins County Jail for Centralized Arraignment.

A.M. NEWS Wednesday 1-14-26

State Police arrested 34 year old Mitchell Colburn of Windsor, for Promote a Sexual Performance by a Child Less Than 17 Years of Age and Possessing Sexual Performance by a Child less than 16. Colburn is accused of possession and promoting child sex abuse material. The investigation began after the State Police received a referral from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children regarding suspicious online activity. Members of the Troop C Computers Crime Unit and the Binghamton Bureau of Criminal Investigation executed a search warrant on Colburn’s residence. Colburn was processed at SP Binghamton and later transported to the Broome County Jail for Centralized Arraignment.

58 year old Anthony Gardner of Binghamton was sentenced in Broome County Court for 2 separate DWI convictions. Gardner faces up to 9 years in a New York State Prison. Gardner initially was convicted of Operating a Motor Vehicle with .08 of One Percent or More Alcohol, he had 2 Prior Convictions of a Designated Offense Within 10 Years. This offense occurred on January 18, 2025, and Gardner pleaded guilty in September, in a separate incident, Gardner was again convicted of DWI, with a Previous Conviction Within 10 Years, he pleaded guilty in December 2025, The cases were investigated by the New York State Police and the Broome County Sheriff’s Office.

The Otsego County Sheriff’s Office arrested 30 year old Kaylee Croft of Hartwick on an arrest warrant, and also for Endangering the Welfare of a Child & Unlawful Imprisonment, following an investigation into a domestic dispute/ child custody dispute in the Town of Otsego on December 25th. An arrest warrant was applied for and granted by the Town of Otsego Court, Croft turned herself in to the Sheriff’s office & was turned over to Otsego County Corrections pending Centralized Arraignment.

P.M. NEWS FRIDAY 10-10-25

State Police responded to a 3 vehicle crash on State Route 12 in the town of Greene, where a Mazda driven by 22 year old Makayla Cummings of Utica, was traveling south on State Route 12, when she crossed into the opposing lane, striking a Ford Focus head-on, driven by 44 year old Angel Kiekel of Nineveh. Cummings continued off the roadway and struck a parked Honda Civic, then she struck the exterior of a residence. Cummings & Keikel were both transported to Wilson Hospital for non-life-threatening injuries, Cummings faces charges for the incident.

30 year old Karl Calhoun pleaded guilty in Broome County Court to Attempted Rape & Criminal Possession of a Weapon. On August 24th, Calhoun forcibly attacked a female, struck her multiple times, strangled her, and forcibly removed her clothing, she was able to resist the attack and escape to safety, the incident was captured on video surveillance, on September 5th, Vestal Police Department conducted a traffic stop on Calhoun, a search uncovered a loaded pistol with an extended magazine containing 9 live rounds, Calhoun will be sentenced to 10 years in state prison for Attempted Rape and 7 years for Criminal Possession of a Weapon, the sentences will run concurrently, and Calhoun will be required to register as a sex offender and an Order of Protection will remain in effect.

State Police are reminding the public to be aware of phone scams that tell a victim to withdraw large sums of money or buy gold bars to “protect their assets”. Scammers will call asking if the victim made a large purchase on Amazon, if they did not, the caller is told that their identity and social security number have been stolen, they are “transferred” to someone who claims to be from a credit union or a bank and advises that the victim to withdraw their money or purchase gold bars so that it can be held for “safe keeping”. The scammers will send a “courier” to collect the money or gold bars. State Police BCI announced the arrest of 41 year old Akash Thakkar of Hiawatha, New Jersey for Grand Larceny for a June 2024 larceny where scammers swindled $500,000 in gold bars, Troopers were able to identify Thakkar as the man who picked up the gold bars, he was processed & was turned over to the Tompkins County Jail for Arraignment.

A.M. NEWS Friday 10-10-25

Delhi Police Department arrested 23 year old Xavier Calderon of New City on 2 counts of Criminal Trespass, on September 27th Calderon allegedly broke into a residence and when confronted by the occupants, claimed he was retrieving property he had left there the previous night, the investigation revealed that Calderon had been inside the residence on September 26, when the tenants were away, and that he had slept in one of the bedrooms without permission. The tenants reported that they do not know Calderon and had never authorized him to be inside the home. Calderon was taken into custody, was processed and transported to for arraignment, where a Temporary Order of Protection was issued.

The Broome County Sheriff’s Office is investigating a fatal motor vehicle accident on I-81 in the City of Binghamton Thursday morning. Broome County Sheriff’s Office Road Patrol and emergency personnel responded to a 3-car accident on I-81 south at the off ramp of Exit 12, they found a U-Haul truck on fire with the driver entrapped in the vehicle, they attempted to extinguish the flames, the U-Haul operator was extricated and transported to Wilson Medical Center, but was was pronounced deceased at the hospital. The U-Haul was towing a vehicle, after merging from Route 17 and was approaching the off ramp of Exit 12 when an SUV attempted to merge across several lanes and struck the U-Haul, causing the operator to lose control and collide with a DOT attenuator truck. The identity of the deceased will be released pending notification of next of kin.

Fenimore Farms in Cooperstown will hold their annual Tractor Fest thus weekend, Spokesperson Kerri Green explains:

(Kerri Green 10-10-25)

The schedule & more information is available at fenimorefarm.org.

Helios Care will hold a fundraising concert tonight beginning at 7:00 PM, at the Foothills Performing Arts Center on Market Street in Oneonta, spokesperson Kathryn Dailey said that fundraisers like this help fund a variety of useful programs:

(Kathryn Dailey 10-10-25)

The Grand Oneonta Opry Benefit concert will feature Elijah Wise, John Thompson and the Driftwoods joined by local musicians like Ken Wilber, The Horseshoe Lounge Playboys and Doug Decker, more information is available at helioscare.org.

The Foothills Performing Arts center will have their annual "Shocktoberfest" tomorrow, with a variety of activites according to spokesman Geoff Doyle:

(GEOFF DOYLE 10-10-25)

More information about Shocktoberfest & other events is available at foothillspac.org.

The 29th Annual Oktoberfest presented by the Deposit Chamber of Commerce will be held Sunday Oct 12th from 10am-5pm on Front Street in Deposit. There will be live music, children's activities, food vendors, beer tent, crafts, and street vendors. Visit the Deposit Chamber of Commerce Facebook page for more details.

P.M. NEWS TUESDAY 6-10-25

State Police are targeting speeding and aggressive drivers during a special week-long traffic enforcement initiative now underway through this Sunday, as Speeding is a contributing factor in nearly 1/3rd of all fatal crashes in New York State. Last year, Troopers issued 22,476 total traffic tickets, including 11,175 for speeding and 592 for violations of the Move Over law, During this “Speed Week” enforcement period, Troopers will be using both marked State Police vehicles and unmarked vehicles as part of the operation.

The Delaware County Department of Public Works will be closing County Route 67 in the Town of Tompkins to through traffic at 7:00 am tomorrow to replace a large culvert. The closure is in the vicinity of 5667 County Route 67, the nearest crossroads are Dry Brook Road and Hathaway Pond Road, a detour will be South Dry Brook Road. It is expected that the road will be reopened to one lane traffic by the end of the day on Thursday.

Amphenol Aerospace will be celebrating their 100th anniversary in Sidney with an open house on Saturday July 19th, they have also decided to have a 5K run or walk on the morning of July 19th, Spokesman Chris Cappello explains:

(Chris Cappello 6-10-25)

Registration for the 5K can be found at zippy-reg.com, the Open House at the Amphenol Facility will start at 12:00 Noon on July 19th.

The Otsego County Conservation Association is accepting nominations for its 2025 Conservationist of the Year Award, which honors outstanding contributions to environmental protection, preservation, and education in Otsego County. The award recognizes an individual, group, organization, or business , the award will be presented during OCCA's Annual Dinner on August 24 at Creekside Station in Hartwick. The deadline for nominations is July 18.

A.M. NEWS TUESDAY 6-10-25

The State Senate approved a bill Monday that would allow terminally ill people die on their own terms, it would allow a person with an incurable illness to be prescribed life-ending drugs if he or she requests the medication and gets approval from 2 physicians, the bill goes to Governor Hochul for approval.

State DOT Crews responded to the report of embankment slide on I-88 westbound near exits 16 and 17. DOT reports that about 60 to 80 feet of unpaved shoulder backup material at the pavement edge has slid into the ditched median, the left lane has been blocked under DOT supervision and will conduct assessments for repairs. Motorists can check 511 for the latest conditions there.

P.M. NEWS THURSDAY 1-16-25

Governor Hochul Delivered her State of the State Address to a joint session of the legislature Tuesday in Albany, local Assemblyman Joe Angelino comments:

(Angelino 1-16-25)

Angelino said that the Budget Address with all the details behind the Governor's agenda will be unveiled on January 21st.

John Pierre Regazzi was sentenced to a state prison term of no less than two years and no more than six years for violating the terms of his probation sentence. Law Enforcement responded in August of 2021, August 1st of 2024, October 11th of 2024 for a number of issues regarding Regazzi for Burglaries, Assault, & violating the terms of probation, in November, the Delaware County Grand Jury returned a one count Indictment charging Regazzi with Criminal Contempt. Regazzi was brought before Judge Rosa Wednesday for sentencing, where the DA"s office asked for the maximum sentence allowable under the law due to Regazzi’s latest violent charges and for his willful disobedience of the Court’s orders, from 3 different courts.

In light of California’s devastating wildfires and the increasing frequency and severity of climate disasters across the country, U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand is calling for state-federal cooperation to ensure that New York is fully prepared to respond to wildfires and other threats. Gillibrand commented about reaching out to state officials to see what can be done in New York State:

(Gillibrand 1-16-25)

Gillibrand said that New York State is not immune from the perils of wildfires, following last years Catskill's Fires, New York City's battle against brush fires & the previous years poor air quality from the Canadian Wildfires.

Mirabito Philanthropy, announced that their Golf Tournament from last year raised over $150,000 to various Charities. The Golf Tourney brought together Mirabito Energy Products customers, partners, employees and family members together for golf at the Turning Stone courses, money raised went to such charities as the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation, Make-A-Wish, the Upstate Golisano Children's Hospital, the Roswell Park Cancer Center & the Boys & Girls Clubs, among many others. This year's Golf Fundraiser will be held June 11th & 12th, more information is available at Mirabito.com.

A.M. NEWS Thursday 1-16-25

The family of Robert Brooks filed a federal civil rights lawsuit on Wednesday after Brooks was beaten by correctional officers at Marcy Correctional Facility and died at an area hospital the following day in December. The New York State Attorney General's Office has stepped back from the investigation, the case has been turned over to Onondaga County District Attorney's office for the officials investigation. The Lawsuit in the United States District Court for the Northern District of New York is against 17 defendants who are directly or indirectly involved in Brooks case.

The Transportation Security Administration officers confiscated a total of 23 handguns, at upstate New York Airports last year. All weapons were found during the routine screening of carry-on luggage. Locally, No firearms were intercepted at Greater Binghamton Airport or Ithaca Tompkins International Airport.

The Broome County Sheriff’s Office is investigating a missing person, last seen in the Town of Chenango. 69 Year old Adib “Eddie” Rouhana, of Vestal was last seen on Saturday, January 11th around Noon in the 1100 block of Upper Front St. in the Town of Chenango, report any tips, video footage, sightings, or information to the Broome County Sheriff’s Office at Tip Line at (607) 778-1196.

The Otsego County Chamber of Commerce will hold their annual State of the County Breakfast today at SUNY Oneonta's Morris Hall, starting at 8:00 AM.

P.M. NEWS FRIDAY 1-3-25

The Broome County Sheriff’s Office is currently investigating a fatal shooting in Conklin that left 1 individual dead and 1 hospitalized this morning at approximately 10:45 AM. Broome County Sheriff’s Office and State Police responded to a shooting incident involving a handgun at a residence on Leslie Avenue in the Town of Conklin. Law enforcement successfully brought the suspect into custody. 1 victim was pronounced deceased at the scene and a 2nd victim was taken to Wilson Medical Center with serious injuries, the investigation is ongoing, and more details will be released as the investigation continues.

Chenango County Fire Investigators are trying to determine the cause of a fire on December 28 in McDonough that destroyed a house and killed pets and farm animals. The Brandt family escaped the blaze, McDonough fire fighters wee assisted by the Pharsalia, Oxford, Smithville, Preston and Greene Fire Departments

Delaware County Sheriff's Deputies arrested a Hancock man and woman on charges stemming from a Domestic Dispute in the Town of Hancock last month. 24-year-old Porter Crawson and 22-year-old Vanessa Tompkins, both of Hancock had engaged in a physical Domestic Dispute, with children present, Crawson and Tompkins were each with Endangering the Welfare of a Child, they were turned over to Delaware County Correctional Facility to await Arraignment.

The New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation welcomed 29 new graduates to the New York State Park Police ranks. After six months of intense training in the 19th Basic School at the State Parks Police Academy, these new officers will be assigned to serve New York's 250 state parks, historic sites and recreational facilities serving more than 84 million visitors.

A.M. NEWS FRIDAY 1-3-25

New State Laws that went into effect Wednesday include the extension of mental health coverage under Workers’ Compensation to all workers, not just first responders, including conditions like post-traumatic stress sustained on the job. Another new law allows Eligible employees to receive up to $1,177 per week in benefits, covering 67% of their wages during family-related absences. Another bill extends the ban on single-use plastic containers in hotels to include establishments with fewer than 50 rooms, to reduce waste and pollution.

State Attorney General's Office has recused itself from prosecuting the case against corrections officers involved in the death of inmate Robert Brooks last month at the Marcy Correctional facility. Onondaga County District Attorney William Fitzpatrick has been appointed to prosecute the case by the Onondaga County Supreme Court.

P.M. NEWS TUESDAY 11-26-24

Otsego County Sheriff's Office arrested 23 year old Kristian Deloatch of Oneonta following a traffic stop Sunday in the Town of Oneonta. Deloatch was charged with Reckless Driving & Speed Over 55 mph, he is accused of driving at approximately 40 mph over the posted speed limit, he was issued an Appearance Ticket and scheduled to appear in the Town of Oneonta Court at a later date.

State Comptroller Tom DiNapoli that Governor Hochul has signed legislation that amends the Abandoned Property Law to authorize the Comptroller to administer an expedited payment program, which eliminates the need for persons and organizations to submit a claim for abandoned property of $250 or less. The average claim paid out is between $50 and $100. Every day, DiNapoli's office returns over $1.5 million.

On Monday at the DEP Offices on Smith Street in Kingston, community leaders gathered to announce a new initiative to improve wireless connectivity across the watershed. New York City DEP Commissioner Aggarwala discussed the project’s aim to build wireless infrastructure that will not only enhance DEP operations but also address the gaps in connectivity affecting local communities. The project will help fill in "dead zones" along critical roadways and ensure better communications for first responders, in areas where cell service is unreliable. The DEP's ability to create this infrastructure on their land will allow private wireless carriers to also utilize it to provide much-needed service boost to residents and businesses.

A.M. NEWS TUESDAY 11-26-24

Delaware County Sheriff’s Deputies received a complaint last week regarding a stolen vehicle from a driveway in the Town of Tompkins. Deputies were contacted by State Police, as they had located the vehicle parked at a residence in the Town of Bainbridge. 37 year old Aaron Howard of Walton was charged with Grand Larceny, Criminal Possession of Stolen Property and Unauthorized use of a Motor Vehicle. 36 year old Courtney Condon of Walton was charged with Grand Larceny and Criminal Possession of Stolen Property.

A pilot and a rescue dog he was transporting to an animal shelter were killed when a small plane crashed near Windham Sunday. 49 year old Seuk Kim of Springfield Virginia was flying from Maryland to Albany, when his plane crashed, 2 other dogs on the plane survived. Kim died on impact, the Federal Aviation Administration and the National Transportation Safety Board were investigating the crash.

Otsego County Sheriff's Office arrested 68 year old Frederick Pangburn of Schoharie for 2 counts of Grand Larceny, following an investigation in to a report of possible extortion. Pangburn allegedly threatened to post intimate photographs of a victim online if he was not given the victim’s vehicle and additional cash, he was located in Worcester and taken in to custody & was being held at the Otsego County Correctional Facility to await Centralized Arraignment. A request for an order of protection was made on behalf of the victim.

P.M. NEWS MONDAY 6-17-24

Norwich Police Department received an emergency call about a male at Flanagan Field Sunday Morning with a gun who had made comments about shooting police officers and then taking his own life. Multiple officers from the Norwich Police Department, the Chenango County Sheriff’s Office and State Police responded to the scene. 24 year old Tyler Hotaling of Norwich fled into the surrounding woods, police cordoned off the location while negotiations began. Hotaling was eventually charged with Falsely Reporting an Incident, after Norwich Police were able to convince Hotaling to surrender after an hour-long standoff. Norwich Police Chief Reuben Roach reported that Hotaling was under the influence of methamphetamine and posed an extreme risk to the police officers and citizens in the Plymouth Street and Flanagan Field area, he was transported to a medical facility and his court case is pending with Norwich City Court.

CHENANGO COUNTY SHERIFF’S OFFICE arrested 42 year old Joshua Squires of Norwich for Failure to Notify Law Enforcement of an Address Change. Squires is a level 1 convicted sex offender in the state of New York and failed to register his new address after being released from the New York State Department of Corrections to the Division of Parole. Squires was held at the Chenango County Correctional Facility on a parole warrant and is to appear in the Town of Norwich Court at a later date.

High Temperatures with High Humidity will affect the Southern Tier this week, Local Meteorologist Rich Townsend explains:

(Rich Townsend 6-17-24)

With the extreme heat in the forecast for the next few days, people are invited to go to the Saint Luke's Church in Sidney Tuesday, Wednesday & Thursday from 3:00 to 6:00 PM to be safe from the heat, St Luke's Spokesperson Chris Camann explains:

(Chris Camann 6-17-24)

St. Luke's is located at 139 West Main Street in Sidney, and there is room for about to 100 people.

Broadway in Binghamton has released their line-up of shows coming in the 2024-2025 season, Tina Niles of NAC Entertainment told WCDO News what has been scheduled:

(Tina Niles 6-17-24)

More information is available at BroadwayInBinghamton.com or by calling 607-772-1391.

The Next Bainbridge Chamber of Commerce meeting will be held tomorrow Morning in Bainbridge. The Meeting will be at 7:30 am at the back of Bob's Diner.

A.M. NEWS MONDAY 6-17-24

On Friday, the Broome County Sheriff’s Office Corrections Academy graduated 21 new corrections officers in a ceremony recognizing this year’s Class of 2024. Of today’s graduates, 2 will serve as members of the Tioga County Sheriff’s Office, 2 with the Tompkins County Sheriff’s Office and 17 will serve with the Broome County Sheriff’s Office at the Broome County Correctional Facility, they will start today.

The Delaware County Chamber's annual Legislative Leadership Forum will be held today, at 9:30 am, in the Okun Theatre on the campus of SUNY Delhi. Confirmed panel speakers include US House Representative Marc Molinaro, State Senator Peter Oberacker, and State Assembly representatives Joe Angelino, Brian Maher, and Chris Tague. More information may be found under the Event tab at DelawareCounty.org.

Bassett Healthcare Network will be starting a parking lot paving project today at FoxCare Center; 1 FoxCare Drive, Oneonta. The project is expected to last a minimum of 15-20 business days--possibly longer, depending on weather and other factors. During this period, there will be temporary changes to traffic patterns in FoxCare Center's parking lot. Please follow construction cones, signs, and personnel directing motorists.

P.M. NEWS MONDAY 4-15-24

Broome County Sheriff's deputies responded last Thursday to a report of inappropriate behavior and abuse of a juvenile female victim in the Town of Maine, where a family acquaintance had conducted several inappropriate physical and sexual interactions with a child. 74 year old Mark Turner of the Town of Maine was charged with 4 Counts of Sexual Abuse, he was arrested and taken into custody without incident and was being held for Court action at the Broome County Correctional Facility.

39 year old Timothy Jarczynski of Maryland pleaded guilty to DWI in Davenport Town Court & was sentenced to a 1-year conditional discharge. On September 28, 2022, a citizen called 911 to report an erratic driver on State Route 23, after following Jarczynski for approximately 10 minutes, he crashed into a ditch where a State Trooper determined that Jarczynski was impaired at the time of the accident. Jarczynski was sentenced to a 1-year conditional discharge and his license was revoked, he was ordered to attend a victim impact panel and successfully complete the impaired driver’s program, If he obtains a driver’s license, he will be required to install an ignition interlock device in any vehicle he owns or operates, he could still face 1 year in jail if he violates any of these conditions.

Delaware County Sheriff's Office arrested 23 year old Jarrett Griffin of Walton on an arrest warrant issued out of the Town of Tompkins Court. On April 4th, Deputies located Griffin and arrested him, Griffin is accused of making threats over texts and Facebook, he's been charged with 3 counts of Aggravated Harassment, he was processed, and turned over to the custody of the Delaware County Jail for future court action.

Waste Recovery Enterprises has teamed up again with the Delaware Valley Humane Society in the month of May for the "Heavy Metal Haul-Out", Humane Society Director Erin Insinga explains:

(Erin Insinga 4-12-24)

The event runs thought the entire month of May, the previous events have resulted in about $8,000 for the Humane Society.

45 year old Katrina Lott of West Edmeston pleaded guilty to Driving While Intoxicated and was sentenced to 3 years of probation, in Deposit Town Court last week. On June 13, 2023, Lott was driving on County Route 8, when she lost control of her vehicle and drove into the ditch. A State Trooper responded to the crash scene and determined that Lott was likely under the influence of alcohol when open containers were spotted in the vehicle. Lott had a BAC of .16% - two times the legal limit.

A.M. NEWS MONDAY 4-15-24

2 Law Enforcement officers were killed, and the suspect was also killed in an incident in Liverpool Sunday night. Syracuse Police Officers encountered a suspicious vehicle Sunday Night, they attempted a traffic stop & the vehicle took off, officers did get the License plate number, it was traced to a Liverpool address to stop the vehicle, Syracuse Police & Onondaga Sheriff's Deputies responded & were encountered by an armed male and an exchange of gunfire followed. One Syracuse Police Officer and one Onondaga County Sheriff’s Deputy were struck by gunfire. The armed suspect was also shot, all 3 were taken to Upstate University Hospital, all 3 succumbed to their injuries.

The Acco Brands plant in Sidney is being sold, Acco Officials said that the company signed a non-binding letter of intent to sell the building to a renewable energy company, if the building is sold in 2024, operations would continue in Sidney throughout much of 2024. CONVALT of Watertown is believed to be the purchaser as they announced on their website their plans to build their main factory, in Sidney with a targeted date of commercial operation in the 1st quarter of 2025.

24-year-old Kelvin Marfo of Delhi was charged with Aggravated Unlicensed Operator of a Motor Vehicle, plus other charges following an accident investigation. On April 6th Deputies responded to an iPhone Crash Detection for a motor vehicle accident on State Highway 28 in the Town of Meredith. Deputies found the motor vehicle accident, 2 of the occupants were transported for non-life-threatening injuries to a local hospital, while 2 others were treated by EMS. Marfo’s driving privileges were suspended for Failing to Answer a Summons, Marfo was issued an Appearance Ticket to appear before the Town of Meredith Court at a later date.

Last Wednesday, Oneonta Police Department was called to investigate a reported gunshot wound by A.O. Fox hospital emergency room staff. Officers learned that 51-year-old John Walley of Otego was transported to the hospital by a third party in a private vehicle, which left before police arrived. Walley was interviewed briefly and stated that he was on Chestnut Street when he was injured by a bullet, no evidence at the scene was found, he was re-interviewed & has refused to cooperate. The case will be closed but may be re-opened should additional information be received and the victim agree to cooperate. Information may be submitted by calling the Oneonta Police Department at (607) 432-1111 or through the City Website.

The 4Towns Forward Community Yard Sale Day is scheduled for Saturday, April 27th in Afton, Bainbridge, Sidney & Unadilla. those who wish to participate & have their sale listed on the map must email 4townsforward@gmail.com, today is the deadline to get on the map.

Congressman Marc Molinaro's constituent service team will hold mobile office hours from 1:00pm to 3:00pm today, at the New Berlin Village Office, constituents will be able to connect with representatives from Rep. Molinaro's office to share comments and resolve issues they are having with federal agencies like the VA, IRS, and Social Security Administration.

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 10-26-23

Chenango County Sheriff's Office arrested 35 year old Garrett Huffman of Nineveh after they received a complaint of an assault to an elderly couple. Huffman was acting as a Home Healthcare Aid for the elderly couple, he allegedly assaulted them & forced them to turn over debit card and signed checks, he then stole the victim's vehicle and fled the area. The victims were taken to an area hospital, in serious condition. Detectives tracked Huffman into Pennsylvania and then later back into Broome County, a felony Arrest Warrant was issued, he was found in Broome County & was taken into custody without incident. Huffman was charged with Robbery, Assault, Strangulation, 3rd & 4th Degree Grand Larceny, criminal mischief, endangering a vulnerable elderly adult among other charges, he was arraigned and was remanded to the Chenango County Corrections Division on $50,000 cash bail, $100,000 bond. Huffman is due to appear in the Town of Afton Court on a later date.

U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand discussed her bipartisan legislation to expedite provisional FDA approval of drugs intended to treat ALS, Parkinson’s, Alzheimer’s, and other life-threatening diseases.

(GILLIBRAND 10-26-23)

Gillibrand’s Act would create a quicker approval pathway to get promising treatments to those who need them, & who's lives may not continue during the normal FDA drug approval period, the bill has a sponsor in the US House of Representatives.

Delaware County Sheriff Office announced that 2 Walton juveniles were arrested regarding an Environmental Conservation complaint. On October 17th, Deputies located a vehicle parked in the roadway in the Town of Walton, unoccupied and nobody around the vehicle, they located hunting equipment in plain view inside the vehicle, they located multiple juveniles in a field nearby along with a recently killed deer. The Department of Environmental Protection seized the deer and the juveniles were turned over to the care of their parents. This week Deputies arrested the 2 juveniles, ages 16 and 17 of Walton, for multiple violations of the State Environmental Conservation Law, the juveniles were directed to appear at Delaware County Probation to answer the charges.

Broome County Sheriff Fred Akshar announced that tomorrow morning at 10:00 AM, Broome County Law Enforcement Academy will hold its graduation ceremony for the Class of 2023 at the Visions Veterans Memorial Arena in Binghamton. This year, 38 graduates representing 17 law enforcement agencies will officially earn the rank of Officer or Deputy Sheriff.

U.S. Marshalls arrested a Brooklyn man this morning in the City of Binghamton after attempting to escape authorities in New York City. 26-year-old Thomas Nimmons was arrested by members of the U.S. Marshal’s Binghamton Division, he was wanted on a parole warrant as well as a federal arrest warrant for Unlawful Flight to Avoid Prosecution. He is currently a suspect in an ongoing homicide investigation by the New York Police Department. Nimmons was taken into custody by the Binghamton Metro SWAT team after a search warrant was executed at 77 Mary Street. He was transported to the Binghamton Police Department and turned over to members of the NYPD shortly after.

A.M. NEWS THURSDAY 10-26-23

State Police and other emergency responders were dispatched to a two-vehicle crash at about 4:45 Wednesday afternoon, with a rollover on State Highway 23 near Interskate 88 in the town of Oneonta. A preliminary investigation indicates that the operator of a Chevrolet Silverado rear-ended a Dodge Durango. The Silverado rolled after impact with the Durango. The operator of the Silverado, was a 42-year-old male of Grand Gorge, A 7-year-old passenger was airlifted to Upstate Medical Center for a head injury. The operator of the Durango, a 38-year-old female of Bloomville was transported to Bassett Medical Center in Cooperstown. The crash remains under investigation.

State Police at Oneonta are looking for the public’s assistance in locating a work truck that was taken without permission from Barney and Sons Well Drilling which is located on County Highway 10 in the town of Laurens. The truck is a pump hoist, and is described as 2021 Ford F550 White Utility Truck with a red crane attached to the roof. It was stolen sometime late Tuesday or early Wednesday, Anyone with information is asked to call New York State Police at (607)561-7400.

Broome County Sheriff's Office released more details after a manhunt that ended in Tompkins County on Wednesday. On Tuesday, at 6:00 PM, Broome County deputies and State Police responded to a domestic disturbance in Whitney Point, the couple left the scene in a U-Haul van, a deputy observed it on State Route 12 in the Town of Chenango & recognized 30 year old Christopher Borges of Binghamton, who was wanted by Binghamton Police for Robbery. The deputy attempted to perform a traffic stop, but the driver, 20 year old Abigail Galusha of Endicott failed to comply. The pursuit continued onto I-81, state route 79, and ended in Tompkins County, when the vehicle went off the road and over an embankment. Galusha was taken into custody, she was wanted on multiple warrants, Borges fled into the woods. Around 10:00 AM Wednesday, Tompkins County Sheriff’s Office was notified of a possible sighting of Borges near the abandoned van, deputies took Borges into custody, he was taken to Broome County Central Arraignment, charged with Kidnapping, Criminal Contempt, Unlawfully Fleeing a Police Officer

The Broome County Sheriff’s Office is currently looking for Erica Gonzalez on an outstanding warrant, she is described as a Black Female, 5'4" 240 pounds with black hair & brown eyes, she is wanted on a charge of criminal contempt. anyone with information on the location of Gonzalez can submit tips to gobroomecounty.com/sheriff/warrants or by calling the Broome County Sheriff’s Office tip line at (607) 778-1196.

P.M. NEWS WEDNESDAY 10-25-23

46 year old John Jaromack Jr, formerly of Franklin, appeared in Delaware County Court Monday, he was sentenced to a total of 10 years in State Prison to be followed by 10 years of post-release supervision. Jaromack pleaded guilty to 2 counts of Criminal Sexual Act in August in Delaware County Court, he admitted to sexually abusing a minor child. The court also issued orders of protection in favor of the two children for the next 13 years. The defendant will be mandated to register as a sex offender upon being released from prison.

U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand announced today that millions in federal funding will be available for New Yorkers through the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program this winter:

(Gillibrand 10-25-23)

The money will help thousands of households across the state afford their heating bills and make cost-effective home energy repairs this winter. She is also calling for additional funding for LIHEAP to make sure that as many qualifying families as possible can get the assistance they need throughout the coming months.

The Tompkins County Sheriff's Office reported that a Binghamton man who led police agencies on a manhunt, was taken into custody today. Christopher Borges of Binghamton led police on a manhunt covering several hours, he was located and taken into custody around 10:07 am. on Deerfield Lane in the Town of Caroline without incident. Charges against Borges include kidnapping, robbery and criminal contempt.

52 year old Shelly Genung of Sidney appeared in Delaware County Court Tuesday and pleaded guilty to 1 count of Aggravated Driving While Intoxicated with a child in the vehicle. Genung admitted that she was operating the motor vehicle on a public highway in the Village of Sidney, while she was intoxicated by alcohol, with a 6-year-old child in the vehicle, she will be sentenced to 5 years of felony probation supervision and required to comply with any substance abuse treatment recommendations & successfully complete the Impaired Driving Program and attend a Victim Impact Panel, her license will be revoked, and she will be required to install an ignition interlock device in any vehicle she owns or operates.

The Salvation Army is looking for volunteers to man the Red Kettles prior to the Christmas holiday, at 2 Sidney Locations, spokesperson Marie Cole explains:

(Marie Cole 10-25-23)

Those interested in volunteering should call Cole at 607-435-5882 & leave a message.

A.M. NEWS WEDNESDAY 10-25-23

The Broome County Sheriff's Office arrested 45 year old Danielle Ashdown of Binghamton during the intake process at the Broome County Correctional Facility. On October 6th, Ashdown was arrested by Binghamton Police for a conditional discharge. A routine search uncovered 2 clear bags hidden on her person, containing methamphetamine and fentanyl, they also recovered 2 other substances. Ashdown was charged with Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance & 3 Counts of Promoting Prison Contraband, she was remanded to the Broome County Correctional Facility.

The Chenango County Farm Bureau Annual Meeting will be held today at Fred’s Inn, in Norwich, beginning at 6:00 pm. Members, farmers, and legislators will be present to discuss the future of agriculture & how green energy is affecting production.

Hartwick College officials announced that they are hosting 2 Candidate Forums prior to Election Day. The Hartwick Institute of Public Service announced that the forum for today features candidates running for election in Otsego County, on Wednesday, November 1, the institute will host candidates running for election in the City of Oneonta. Both events are scheduled for 6:00 to 8:00 PM in the Shineman Chapel House on the Hartwick College campus.

The Otsego County Department of Health reports that a cat tested positive for rabies in the Village of Cherry Valley on October 24, 2023. This cat belonged to a feral cat colony on Montgomery Street in the Village of Cherry Valley. The chance of rabies in other cats in the colony is very high, anyone who may have had contact with the cats should call the Health Department at 607-547-4230

American Red Cross Blood Drives will continue today. 1 Blood Drive will be held at the St. Mary's Church on Elm Street in Cooperstown, from 12:30 TO 5:30 PM. A blood drive will also be held at the Delaware Academy in Delhi from 8:00 AM to 1:00 PM, appointments can be made with the red cross app, at redcrossblood.org or by calling 1-800 RED CROSS.

P.M. NEWS WEDNESDAY 5-24-23

The Tri Town Theater will be performing "Little Shop of Horrors" at the Sidney High School Auditorium in Early June based on the 1960 movie & the updated 80's movie, adapted for the stage, cast members Evelyn Kinnear & Shawn Smith told WCDO about the show and their characters, Audrey 1 & Audrey 2:

(Evelyn Kinnear/Shawn Smith 5-24-23)

Tickets are available for the shows at tritowntheatre.org, shows will be June 2nd & 3rd at 7:30 PM with a Sunday Matinee on June 4th at 2:00 PM

The Four County Library System Bookmobile is celebrating the 60th anniversary of the Bookmobile, which has traveled across the rural areas of Broome, Chenango, Delaware & Otsego Counties, Spokesperson Sarah Reid told WCDO news why the program has kept going for 6 decades:

(Sarah Reid 5-24-23)

Reid said that they are planning some special events to coincide with the Bookmobile anniversary this summer, more information is available at the 4 County Library System Facebook page.

The Southern Tier Chapter of the American Red Cross will be hosting its 14th Annual Real Heroes event Thursday, at the Binghamton DoubleTree Hotel, featuring color guard and bagpipes, the event will begin at 7:30 AM, Several Southern Tier residents will be honored for their heroic, sometimes life-saving, assistance of their neighbors in need. Participating sponsors and donors will be handing out awards to 20 recipient “heroes”, ranging from a second-grader who saved a classmate from choking to a pair of NYS Troopers who went above and beyond.

Delaware County Sheriff’s Deputies responded Friday to a 2 car motor vehicle accident with injuries on State Highway 206 in the Town of Tompkins. After further investigation, deputies identified the one of the drivers of the vehicle as 66 year-old Terence Gebler of Walton, whose driver’s license was suspended. Deputies arrested Gebler for Aggravated Unlicensed Operation of a Motor Vehicle and Failure to turn in license to DMV, & Failure to yield while entering an intersection, Gebler was released and is scheduled to appear in the Town of Tompkins Court at a later date.

A.M. NEWS Wednesday 5-24-23

The Otsego County Chamber of Commerce will hold their Annual Awards Dinner tonight at 5:30pm at the SUNY Oneonta Alumni Field House. This year's award winners are: Geoffrey Doyle of Foothills Performing Arts Center for the Eugene Bettiol Jr. Distinguished Citizen Award, Connie Herzig for the Volunteer of the Year Award, Dan Buttermann - Leadership Otsego Distinguished Alumni Award, & Casella Waste Systems for the Business of the Year Award & Creekside Industries for the Breakthrough Business of the Year Award.

A Red Cross Blood Drive will be held today in Cooperstown, from 9 am. - 2 pm., at St Mary's Roman Catholic Church, 31 Elm Street. To make an appointment, simply download the American Red Cross Blood Donor App, visit RedCrossBlood.org, call 1-800-RED CROSS.

The Otsego County Office of Emergency Services reported that firefighters are continuing to fight a fire of brush & trees along the Otsego & Schoharie County line, the 2nd operational period was conducted yesterday, Fire fighters & EMS providers from Otsego, Delaware and Schoharie County expect to wrap up the the fires today, about 237 acres were affected, with 90% containment reported Thursday Afternoon.

The Town Of Guilford will hold a special Board meeting Tuesday at 6:00 PM at the Town Hall on Marble Road. The meeting will be informational featuring representatives from Invenergy & Northland Power, Town of Guilford residents are urged to attend the meeting.

Binghamton Police arrested 28 year old Christopher Frederick for 2nd degree attempted murder, criminal possession of a weapon and first-degree criminal use of a firearm, in connection with a shooting that occurred on Binghamton's North Side on February 25th, following the report of several shots being fired, and where a 22 year old man was injured with a gunshot wound to the chest. Frederick was arrested without incident in Endwell, he was arraigned in Binghamton City Court and sent to Broome County Jail.

NBT Bancorp Announced that the shareholders of Salisbury Bancorp, voted to approve the proposed merger of Salisbury with NBT. The proposal was announced last December, Salisbury has 14 banking offices in northwestern Connecticut, the Hudson Valley region of New York, and southwestern Massachusetts.

The Delaware County District Attorney's Office announced that 50 year old Brett Conklin of Walton was convicted for DWI In Tompkins Town Court. Conklin was arrested last November after a 1 vehicle crash, where registered a BAC of .14. Conklin was ordered to pay $900 in fees and fines, he was sentenced to a 1 year conditional discharge, he must install an ignition interlock device on any vehicle he owns & he must attend a victims impact panel & an impaired Drivers program.

A.M. NEWS FRIDAY 4-14-23

3 individuals are facing 16 felony charges after being apprehended by Broome County Sheriff’s Deputies following the theft of a vehicle and trailer in the Town of Binghamton. On Tuesday, Deputies responded to the reported theft of a truck & trailer containing a zero turn lawn mower on Mill Street in the Town of Binghamton, the truck’s owner had security cameras, & a tracking device, where the vehicle was located at Phillips Way in the Town of Binghamton, the 3 suspects, fled on foot into a creek. Deputies arrested 30 year old Heather Brewer of Endicott, 38 year old Joseph Schultz & 35 year old Ryan White of Endicott on a variety of charges including Grand Larceny, Criminal Possession of stolen Property, & Conspiracy, Schultze was found to have outstanding warrants for Grand Larceny, resisting arrest, identity theft and drug charges in the State of Pennsylvania and violating parole in Albany.

The twice Annual "Coffee with the Chiefs" event will be held in Norwich on Saturday April 15th from 9:00 to 11:00 AM at the Norwich McDonald's, local residents will have the chance to talk to new Norwich Police Chief Reuben Roach and City of Norwich Fire Department Chief Jan Papelino.

P.M. NEWS FRIDAY 12-30-22

State Police & the State Attorney General’s Office are investigating a fatal motor vehicle crash in Cortland County Wednesday night, where a Cortland County Sheriff’s Deputy observed an SUV driving through a red traffic light in the Town of Cortlandville. The Deputy attempted to initiate a traffic stop, the SUV failed to comply, both the SUV and the patrol vehicle crashed, after failing to negotiate a turn onto the Interstate 81 on-ramp in Homer. A rear seat passenger in the SUV, 16-year-old, Salena Wallner was pronounced dead at the scene. The driver of the SUV, a 15-year-old female, a 16-year-old female passenger and a 15-year-old female passenger were transported to Upstate Medical Center in Syracuse with serious injuries. The Sheriff’s Deputy sustained non-life-threatening injuries and was transported to a local hospital for treatment. The SUV had been reported stolen from the William George Agency for Children’s Services in Tompkins County shortly before the accident.

Governor Kathy Hochul signed legislation that will allow those who are living and donate a kidney or liver to receive reimbursement. The law is designed to get rid of any financial barrier that may be holding an individual back from donating an organ & it will reduce transplant wait times and address the organ shortage in the state.

Over $22 million in grant funding was awarded to 76 communities across the state through Round 12 of the Regional Economic Development Council Initiative, with an emphasis on Waterfront Revitalization, Brownfield remediation & Sustainable Community Planning and Zoning. The Village of Sidney will receive $700,000 dollars for their GreenPlain Community Park Plan, Sidney Village Mayor Andy Matviak comments:

(Andy Matviak 12-30-22)

Plans call for the construction of recreational amenities including a green soccer complex and event lawn, adjacent to the Susquehanna River. Broome County will receive funds for improvements at Grippen Park, The Ross Park Trail & the Roberson Museum.

Elected officials will be sworn in for a new term on Sunday, January 1st. Governor Hochul will be sworn in at 2:00 PM Sunday at the Empire State Plaza in Albany, Sheriff-elect Fred Akshar and the Broome County Legislature will be joined by hundreds of family and friends for a special Joint Swearing-in Ceremony at the DoubleTree in Binghamton on Sunday at 1:00 PM. Akshar passed on running for re-election to the State Senate, in order to return to Law Enforcement.

A.M. NEWS FRIDAY 12-30-22

The new Minimum wage is set to go into effect on Saturday, Workers outside of New York City, Long Island, and Westchester County will see the minimum wage go from $13.20 to $14.20 an hour.

A new provision of Brianna’s Law goes into effect Saturday in New York State. This legislation was signed into law in 2019, but a new provision requires operators of mechanically propelled boats to complete a boating safety course. Before, those born on or after January 1, 1988 needed the safety certificate. Beginning January 1, 2023, those born on or after January 1, 1983 need the boating safety certificate to operate mechanically propelled boats.

P.M. NEWS TUESDAY 11-29-22

37 year old Jonas Whaley was sentenced Monday in US District Court in Syracuse to 87 months in prison for possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine and possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime. Whaley admitted that he possessed 50 grams or more of a substance containing methamphetamine & he possessed 2 pistols and a revolver, which he used to protect himself while distributing the drugs. Whaley will also serve a 4-year term of post-imprisonment supervised release and will forfeit $3,600 in drug proceeds.

The Broome County District Attorney’s office announced that 42-year-old David Coffey pleaded guilty to Criminal Possession of a Weapon for having an illegal, loaded .40-caliber pistol in the City of Binghamton on May 25, 2021. Members of the Broome County Special Investigations Unit Task Force, executing a search warrant, found the gun and small amounts of methamphetamine at Coffey’s home on Clifford Street. Coffey had previously been convicted of Assault in Delaware County in 2003, & had previously was charged with Criminal Possession of a Forged Instrument, Petty Larceny and Conspiracy for allegedly trying to cheat a Town of Chenango resident by paying for electronics with counterfeit funds. Coffey will be sentenced to 7 years in State prison plus 5 years post-release supervision in February.

Destination Oneonta announced that Festival of Trees will be held later this week, Director David Kropp explains:

(David Kropp 11-29-22)

Kropp also said the the annual Tree Lighting will be held Thursday December 8th in the Muller Plaza in downtown Oneonta, starting at 5:30 PM.

Delaware County Sheriff's Deputies responded Friday to a report of a violation of an Order of Protection in the Town of Deposit. 50 year old Brett Conklin of Walton, allegedly violated an active Order of Protection by entering the residence of the protected party, Deputies located and arrest Conklin for Criminal Contempt, he was released on an Appearance Ticket to appear before the Town of Deposit Court at a later date.

The Rural Health Care Network's "Get-There" program is looking for volunteers to help area residents get to medical appointments, pharmacies & food stores. Drivers will be trained & compensated, more information is available at 855-373-4040.

A.M. NEWS Tuesday 11-29-22

State Police arrested 29 year old Kristofor O’Rourke of Newfield, for Criminal Sexual Act and Official Misconduct. O’Rourke who was last employed by the Tompkins County Sheriff’s Office, was previously employed by the Watkins Glen Police Department, Mt. Morris Police Department, and the Geneseo Police Department. Anyone who may have had inappropriate contact with O’Rourke is urged to call State Police at (585)-398-4100.

State Attorney General Letitia James announced that her office, along with a coalition of 5 other states and the Federal Trade Commission, secured $9.4 million from Google and iHeartMedia for airing misleading ads about a Google device. Google paid Corporate radio personalities to record endorsement ads describing their positive experience using the Google Pixel 4 phone, without ever using them, the misleading ads ran in English and Spanish more than 23,000 times in 10 different markets, in violation of New York's consumer protection laws. Google and iHeartMedia will pay New York $1.58 million.

State Comptroller Tom DiNapoli's office audited the Downsville School District, The audit found that the board and district officials did not always ensure claims were properly audited before payment. Auditors reviewed 150 claims packets totaling $870,798 and found claims totaling $700,507 were not properly audited. School Officials also did not obtain the minimum number of quotes for nine claims totaling $18,628.

P.M. NEWS MONDAY 11-21-22

Delaware County Sheriff’s Deputies investigated a fatal UTV accident on Carcass Brook Road in the Town of Tompkins. 45-year-old William Youhas of New Jersey was operating a side-by-side Utility Vehicle When he lost control & the vehicle overturned, Youhas was partially ejected & was pinned underneath, 1st responders were not successful and Youhas was pronounced deceased at the scene.

19 year old Payton Gendron of Conklin has had his court date adjourned, due to the snow storm that dumped about 6 feet of snow on the Buffalo area since Thursday. Gendron was due in Erie County Court today to to answer to a series of charges for the fatal shooting for 10 people and the injuring of 3 others, during an attack on a Supermarket in a black neighborhood in May. Gendron is being held pending court action in for local and federal courts in the near future.

Delaware County Sheriff's deputies arrested 24 year old Henry Kaufmann of Delhi following an investigation into a 1 vehicle accident Friday night on State Highway 10 in Delhi. Deputies responded to the accident site, where the driver left the scene, Kaufmann was later located & he was charged with operating a motor vehicle while intoxicated, leaving the scene of a motor vehicle accident, moving from lane unsafely, speed not reasonable and prudent, operating with no seat belt, and open container. Kaufmann was released on an appearance ticket and was scheduled to appear before the Town of Delhi Court at a later date.

Open Enrollment is underway for the New York State of Health 2023 cycle. New Yorkers looking to renew, change their insurance or enroll for the 1st time can go to nystateofhelth.ny.gov or call 1-855-355-5777.

State Police and local law enforcement agencies will participate in a special traffic safety initiative this Thanksgiving weekend, from Wednesday, through Monday. Construction-Related Lane Closures Limited will be limited from Wednesday Morning to Monday morning to ease the increased holiday traffic, except in the case of emergencies.

On Saturday, staff and youth from the Tobacco Free Zone/Reality Check program of Chenango County commemorated this year’s Great American Smokeout by conducting a cigarette Butt cleanup in the East & West Parks in the City of Norwich. Tobacco Free Zone coordinator Brad Morrison explains:

(Brad Morrison 11-21-22)

The Tobacco Free Zone program of Chenango County can assist municipalities, employers and other groups to transition their property to tobacco-free spaces. More information is available at TFreeZone.net.

A.M. NEWS MONDAY 11-21-22

The State Department of Education is now requiring all State schools to drop Native American Imagery or names as their mascots. Districts will have until the end of this school year to comply with the directive or risk the loss of funding and even school officers such as the superintendent.

Morris Central School District residents will vote on a $14.5 million capital project, which includes replacing the bus garage, roofs on the main building, repaving the parking lot and installing LED energy efficient lights and replacing flooring as necessary, installing more cameras, replacing fire doors and updating the heating of the school. 86% of the project will come from state aid and the district will use $1 million in its capital reserves fund, a public forum will be held at 5:30 PM on December 8th in the school's library. The vote will be December 13th at the school's main entrance.

Sidney Federal Credit Union announced a location for their flagship branch in the Syracuse market, on Brewerton Road in front of the Cicero Walmart Supercenter. The new branch will feature the same concierge-style concept that SFCU established in its Amsterdam location, with personal teller pods and video-enabled iTMs that allow members to connect virtually with a representative while conducting transactions. Sfcu Membership is over 64,000 with $775 million in assets.

P.M. NEWS Monday 11-7-22

Tomorrow is Election day, New Yorkers Statewide will be voting candidates to send to Washington, in the U.S. Senate seat currently occupied by Charles Schumer, he faces competition from Republican Joe Pinion & 3rd party candidate Diane Sare. Locally, voters in the 19th Congressional District will be choosing between a Republican Mark Molinaro of Duchess County, and Democrat Josh Riley of Tompkins county. Molinaro told WCDO News of his priorities:

(Marc Molinaro 11-7-22)

Riley told WCDO News about his position on some of the major issues:

(Josh Riley 11-7-22)

Polling places are open 6:00 AM to 9:00 PM

In Delaware County, there is an election for County Judge between current District Attorney John Hubbard on the Republican line & for the Democrats, Andrew Van Buren. Hubbard told WCDO News that one of the changes he would like to enact, if elected, would be better communication between the County & Local Courts:

(John Hubbard 11-7-22)

Van Buren told WCDO News that people should be aware that the judge will have to follow the rule of law, whether they approve of the law or not:

(Andrew Van Buren 11-7-22)

The winner replaces Richard Northrup, who has decided to retire after many years of service on the bench & in the District Attorney's office.

Voters in the town of Sidney will fill a seat on the town board, between Republican Paul Muratore & Democrat Kevin Greene. Muratore told WCDO News that he has been serving on the board & feels like he accomplished a lot in a short time:

(Paul Muratore 11-7-22)

Democrat Kevin Greene told WCDO News that he is running for town Board to fulfill potential he sees in the town of Sidney:

(Kevin Greene 11-7-22)

The seat is for one year only, and will be up for election again in November of 2023.

43 year old Ray Hyer of Unadilla was arrested in Ohio after he failed to appear in n Otsego County court earlier this year for sentencing on a criminal sexual act charge. Hyer was located in Sandusky, Ohio on October 21st, he was arrested and was extradited back to the Otsego County Jail, he faces additional charges on top of the original criminal sexual act conviction.

Broome County officials are investigating the death of an inmate in the Broome County Jail on Friday. 30 year-old Mitchell Lindow of Binghamton was being held on a murder charge when he was found deceased by Corrections officers conducting a head count, an autopsy was conducted Friday, no cause of death was determined.

A.M. NEWS MONDAY 11-7-22

State Police announced that 9 people were arrested & drugs were seized after search warrants were executed at Budget Inn Motel on Route 23 Southside in the town of Oneonta Thursday & Friday. Items seized included methamphetamine, cocaine, heroin, fentanyl, crack cocaine, ecstasy, Suboxone strips & Packaging materials and scales, The investigation is on-going.

The Houston Astros won the 2022 World Series, artifacts from the team are coming to the Baseball Hall of Fame in Cooperstown. Among the items donated, the Bat used by Yordan Álvarez in Game 6 when he hit a go-ahead 3-run home run, a Jersey worn in Game 2 and wristbands worn in Game 6 by Astros manager Dusty Baker, a Ball thrown by Cristian Javier in Game 4 and signed by all 4 pitchers who combined on just the second World Series no-hitter.

P.M. NEWS WEDNESDAY 10-12-22

30 year old Shelby Ortiz of the town of Maryland, pleaded guilty to distributing child pornography in federal court. Ortiz admitted to having sexual contact with a 7-month-old boy and sending it to someone else electronically. Ortiz is scheduled to be sentenced in February & could face 10 to 20 years in prison if convicted. .

The Broome County Sheriff’s Office is investigating a fentanyl overdose that occurred at the jail last Friday. The unidentified 34-year-old inmate was found by a correctional officer, 1st aid was administered, the inmate was taken to Wilson Regional Medical Center for further medical attention. The investigation into the incident is continuing.

The Otsego County Sheriff's Office arrested 26 year old Kynisha Atkinson of Oneonta following a recent traffic stop in the Town of Oneonta. Atkinson was found to be operating a motor vehicle on a public highway with a suspended registration on September 25th, she will appear in Town of Oneonta court at a later date.

The Binghamton Black Bears Hockey Team of the Federal Prospects Hockey League, will begin their new season this Friday Night at the Visions Veterans Memorial Arena in Binghamton, new team announcer Brooks Hill told WCDO News that the team looks poised to return to the playoffs this year:

(Brooks Hill 10-12-22)

Hill said that tickets are available on their website: binghamtonblackbears.com/tickets, or by calling 607-722-7367.

Governor Kathy Hochul today announced more than $246 million from FEMA to support counter-terrorism and emergency preparedness efforts across New York. The New York State Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services manages the programs with local stakeholders, locally Chenango & Otsego Counties will receive over $93,000, Delaware County over $85,000 and Broome County over $311,000.

A.M. NEWS Wednesday 10-12-22

Delaware County Sheriff’s Office arrested 29-year-old Osman Mendoza-Garcia of Scranton, Pennsylvania, on October 1st, after Deputies responded to a 2-car accident on State Highway 10. The investigation found that Mendoza-Garcia was following another north bound vehicle that was attempting to make a turn, he was unable to stop. Mendoza-Garcia was driving with a suspended driver’s license, he was charged with Aggravated Unlicensed Operation and Following too Closely, he was released with appearance tickets made returnable to the Town of Tompkins Court at a later date.

State Police arrested 31year old Jesse Sklenarik of Oneonta, for Attempted Petty Larceny, after a trooper was dispatched to a report of a larceny in progress at Certified Auto. When the trooper arrived, an employee was holding down Sklenarik after he allegedly attempted to cut the catalytic converter off a vehicle on their property. Sklenarik was released on an appearance ticket to the Oneonta Town Court on October 18th.

The Northeast Classic Car Museum will have their annual drawing today, for someone to win a 1965 Ford Mustang Convertible, valued at about $30,000. Tickets have been sold for several months, the event is one of the key fundraisers for the museum, last year's winner was Rick Hulse of Cooperstown.

P.M. NEWS THURSDAY 5-12-22

Otsego County Sheriff's Office arrested 31 year old Steven Barrows of Sidney on burglary & Grand Larceny charges, after stopping a suspected stolen vehicle from the Town of Otego. Barrows was located driving the vehicle in the Town of Oneonta, he was taken into custody at the Super 8 Motel by Deputies and State Troopers, Barrows was arraigned and was remanded to the Otsego County Correctional Facility. The investigation is on-going and additional charges are expected.

Referees & Volunteers are needed for this years Gus Macker Basketball Tournament in Norwich, on July 9th & 10th at the Norwich High School, organizer Tom Revoir told WCDO News that recruiting volunteers is more difficult after the 2 year layoff:

(Tom Revoir 5-12-22)

Those who would like to register a team to play in this summers Macker Tournament can go online by June 20th at Macker.com, referees volunteers and sponsors can call Tom Revoir or Jamey Mullen at the Norwich YMCA at 336-9622.

Otsego County Sheriff’s Office arrested 29-year-old Andrew Kreger of Oneonta, after Deputies responded to a shoplifting complaint at the Hannaford Grocery Store in Oneonta. Kreger is accused of leaving the store with $848.35 worth of merchandise without paying, he was also found to be in possession of a small quantity of LSD. Kreger was charged with petit larceny and criminal possession of a controlled substance, he was processed and released on an appearance ticket pending future court action.

Former Lieutenant Governor Brian Benjamin will have his court date next January, he is accused of using his political clout to get campaign contributions. Benjamin resigned as lieutenant governor after pleading not guilty on the day of his arrest, he has been replaced by local Congressman Antonio Delgado.

State Police arrested 27 year old Amanda-Lynn Pedlar of Cooperstown, for Criminal Possession of a Forged Instrument, after Troopers were dispatched to the Oneonta Walmart after employees reported that Pedlar attempted to use a counterfeit $100 bill mixed in with actual currency. Pedlar was located at the Town House Inn and arrested, she was processed and issued an appearance ticket to the Oneonta Town Court on May 17th.

A.M. NEWS Thursday 5-12-22

The Norwich Downtown Revitalization Initiative Local Planning Committee will be holding a meeting today from 3:30-5:30 PM in the Norwich High School Cafeteria, they will be reviewing proposed DRI projects to be potentially included in Norwich’s Strategic Investment Plan. The meeting is open to the public, with time reserved at the end for public comment. A public workshop will also be held at 6:30 PM in the Norwich High School Cafeteria, where the public is invited to learn about the proposed projects being considered for DRI funding and to participate in a session to provide feedback.

Delaware County Sheriff's Office arrested of 31 year old Lisa Rosengrant of Hancock for Aggravated Unlicensed Operation of a motor vehicle. On May 3rd on State Highway 10 in the Town of Tompkins, Deputies observed a vehicle traveling at a high rate of speed, a traffic stop was conducted and it was learned that Rosengrant’s operating privileges were suspended. Rosengrant was also issued Tickets for Operating without a license and Speeding, she was released and is scheduled to appear in the Town of Tompkins Court at a later date.

On May 4th, Delaware County Sheriff Deputies were dispatched to a reported domestic dispute, they arrested 57-year-old Brett Shepler of Harpersfield, for allegedly obstructing the breathing of the victim and damaging property. Deputies arrested and charged Shepler Friday with Unlawful Imprisonment, Criminal Obstruction of Breathing, Reckless Endangerment and Criminal Mischief, he was arraigned in the Town of Harpersfield Court and released on his own recognizance & he was ordered to return at a later date.

Schenevus fire department responded to a reported brush fire shortly after 11:30 Wednesday Morning, near the intersection of State Highway 7 & Stone House Road in the Town of Maryland. Dry conditions, wind and steep terrain were contributing factors while firefighters from 18 different departments fought the blaze. An additional 8 departments were on standby. The Fire was under control at approximately 5:00 PM. Otsego County EMS reminds area residents that the statewide burn ban through May 14.

P.M. NEWS WEDNESDAY 3-23-22

New York State plans to start testing wastewater in all counties across New York State for variants of the coronavirus and track changes in concentration. The sub-variant is responsible for an uptick in cases, making up about 42% in the state. State health Commissioner Dr. Mary Bassett and Governor Hochul stressed that vaccines continue to be a critical tool & people should take advantage of vaccines, and to contact their physician if they get sick, in order to avoid more serious illness.

Otsego County Sheriff's Office arrested 28 year old Robert Wehrenberg on a warrant for failure to appear in Otsego County Court. Wehrenberg previously failed to appear in Otsego County Court, a bench warrant was issued through Otsego County Court, he did make an appearance in court and was remanded to the Otsego County Correctional Facility, & will appear in Otsego County Court at a later date.

U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand announced the introduction of the "Rural Prosperity Act" today to stream line local governments ability to access federal programs that are spread out & inefficient:

(Gillibrand 3-23-22)

Senator Gillibrand said that currently, there are more than 400 federal programs dedicated to helping rural communities, spread across 13 departments, and over 50 offices and sub-agencies. This bill would cut federal red tape by establishing the Office of Rural Prosperity, a permanent office in the White House tasked with coordinating federal efforts to support and connect New York’s rural communities to federal programs.

A.M. NEWS WEDNESDAY 3-23-22

State Health Commissioner Dr. Mary Bassett said that she doesn’t expect to see a “steep surge” in COVID-19 cases as a new omicron subvariant grows more prevalent in the state. Dr. Bassett said that the BA.2 variant comprises about 42% of all New York State cases, the positivity rate of COVID tests on Monday was back up to 2.36%.

State Police arrested 42 year old David Hook & 41 year old David Alleyne, both of Delhi for Criminal Mischief, Auto stripping, Falsifying Business Records & Criminal Possession of Stolen Property, after an investigation into the theft of catalytic converters from vehicles at a private residence in the town of Delhi. Hook allegedly took a stolen catalytic converter to Otsego Auto Crushers in the town of Davenport and signed a receipt that he was the owner of the stolen catalytic converter, Alleyne was found to be in possession of a stolen catalytic converter, Both men were issued appearance tickets and released & will appear in the Davenport & Delhi Town Courts shortly.

Fantasy sports contests like those operated by FanDuel and DraftKings were declared constitutional in New York on Tuesday by the state’s highest court. The state Court of Appeals reversed an appeals court’s decision last year that found daily fantasy sports violated the state constitution’s ban on gambling.

Chenango River Theatre’s 14th annual Winter Gala will be held at the Genegantslet Golf Club this Saturday from 6:00 – 9:30pm.  The evening includes both a Silent and Live Auction, according to Theater Director Zach Curtis:

(Zach Curtis 3-23-22)

Curtis said that they will also be announcing the schedule of shows this year, at Saturday night's event, Tickets for Saturday Night are available online at chenangorivertheatre.org or by calling 607-656-8778.

Delaware County Public Health reported that a raccoon in the Town of Tompkins has tested positive for rabies. The raccoon attacked and exposed one dog; no human exposures were reported. The dog was up to date on its rabies vaccinations and received a booster. To report a suspected rabid animal call Delaware County Public Health Services at 607-832- 5200. For more information call 607-832-5200 or visit our website at delawarecountypublichealth.com.

P.M. NEWS MONDAY 1-10-22

A Wind Chill Advisory is in effect through tomorrow morning, area Meteorologist Rich Townsend comments about the danger of frostbite & Hypothermia in extreme cold weather conditions:

(Rich Townsend 1-10-22)

The Nation weather Service has the Wind Chill Advisory from 1:00 AM Tuesday to 10:00 AM Tuesday.

Firefighters from area department responded Sunday night to a fire at a house an garage on Riverstone Road near Otsego County route 58 in the town of Oneonta. Otsego County Fire officials reported that Oneonta Firefighters received Mutual Aid from Milford, Pindars Corners, West Oneonta, Laurens, Otego & Schenevus departments; both structures were destroyed, the cause of the fire is under investigation.

The Colonial Bar and restaurant, Dos Rios & The Stone Fox all re-opened Friday, after being closed following accusations of sexual misconduct against a member or Members of the ownership group of the 3 establishments. The Binghamton Police Department is investigating claims, no arrests have been announced, and the restaurant group announced on its Facebook page that they have revised their management team, hired an outside law firm and a Human Resources firm.

The Internal Revenue Service announced today that the IRS kick off to the tax season begins on January 24th this year. The deadline for filing federal income tax this year will be April 18th, instead of the usual April 15th.

A.M. NEWS MONDAY 1-10-22

Governor Kathy Hochul announced new guidance recommending booster doses for all New Yorkers ages 12 and older. The guidance, following action by the CDC, recommends that people, including the newly authorized 12-15 year-old age group, who received the Pfizer vaccine should receive a booster dose at least 5 months after their 2nd dose; the previous recommended interval was 6 months. Moderately to severely immunocompromised 5-11-year-olds can receive an additional primary dose of the Pfizer vaccine 28 days after their 2nd dose. The CDC recommended the same change to a 5 month booster interval for the Moderna vaccine, which is only authorized for people 18 years and older.

The State Department of Health supports "Test to Stay" as a strategy that allows asymptomatic unvaccinated school-based close contacts, such as students, teachers or staff, to avoid school exclusion by testing negative through serial testing using rapid or antigen tests. Delaware County Public Health is allowing school districts to implement Test to Stay; It is the decision of each individual school district to implement the program, as early as today. Sidney Central School District will begin the Test To Stay Program today.

The City of Oneonta Fire Department announced that they responded to 3422 calls for service last year. 55 of the calls were for Fires, 2 for Over-pressure or ruptures, there were 2472 EMS calls, and 370 calls were canceled while in route, 336 False Alarms, 16 Natural Disasters & 6 Special Incidents among those calls.

State Police announced that During the month of December, 37 impaired drivers were taken off the roadways of Troop C. Troop C encompasses seven counties; Broome, Chenango, Cortland, Delaware, Otsego, Tioga and Tompkins.

P.M. NEWS MONDAY 1-3-21

The Delaware County Sheriff’s Office investigated multiple burglaries in the Towns of Masonville, Tompkins, Franklin and Hamden, last summer, while State Police also received multiple reports of burglaries in the same towns. On August 17th, Delaware County Sheriff’s Deputies and Investigators arrested 40-year-old Randy Hawkins and 38-year-old George Klinger, both of Morris, for a Burglary the 2 allegedly committed in the Town of Hamden, subsequent to that arrest, a Search Warrant was executed at their Morris residence, Klinger and Hawkins were arrested again on December 30th, and charged with an additional 15 counts each of 3rd degree Burglary for crimes committed in the Towns of Masonville, Tompkins, Franklin and Hamden. Both defendants remain incarcerated on the original Burglary charges and will be arraigned in the Town of Hamden at a later time.

Governor Hochul Announced a continuation of their Winter Surge plan as they anticipate the ongoing increases in Hospitalizations from the Omicron Variant of COVID 19:

(Governor Hochul 1-3-22)

The state has had record numbers of new cases of the Omicron variant with much higher percentages of positive tests than from previous strains, Governor Hochul has secured 37 million COVID tests distributed to schools, to try to avoid another lengthy period of remote learning for New York Students..

State lawmakers are getting ready for the 2022 session in Albany, Local Assemblyman Joe Angelino will be stressing the need to change the controversial Bail Reform law passed 2 years ago:

(Joe Angelino 1-3-22)

Angelino said that not only is there a revolving door for repeat offenders, but people with drug addictions are not getting the help they need to get cleaned up & improve their lives.

Delaware County Public Health will be conducting a COVID-19 vaccination clinic for people 18 and older this Thursday at 97 Main Street, Delhi. Moderna 1st or 2nd doses will only be available from 2:00 to 4:00 PM, for walk-ins only; Moderna boosters will be available from 2:00 to 4:00 PM for those who register at apps2.health.ny.gov, more information is available by calling Delaware County Public Health at 607-832-5200.

Mark Drnek has been sworn in as the new Mayor of Oneonta, Drnek told WCDO News that committee meetings are already underway:

(Mayor Mark Drnek 1-3-22)

Drnek replaces Gary Herzig as Oneonta Mayor, who did not seek re-election last November, Drnek previously served on the Oneonta Common Council.

Governor Hochul has extended the state's mask mandate for all businesses and venues to February 1. The mask mandate went back in effect for the state on December 13. Businesses or venues that require proof of vaccination to enter will be exempt from the mandate. Also on Friday, Gov. Hochul announced that all SUNY and CUNY students will be required to receive a COVID-19 booster when they are eligible starting January 15.

The Firemen's Association of the State of New York applauds Governor Hochul for signing legislation that bans carcinogenic flame retardant chemicals in household items, furniture, and electronic enclosures. The chemicals pose danger to firefighters; the bill established a fine of up to $2,500 per day for repeated offenses.

P.M. NEWS THURSDAY 12-2-21

State Police are reminding motorists to obey the states "Move Over Law" after a state trooper on duty in his patrol car in Westchester County, had a truck crashed into his vehicle early Tuesday morning. Trooper Carlos Desilva was monitoring traffic from inside his troop car on the shoulder of I-87 when he was struck by a truck that drifted off the roadway and slammed into Desilva's marked cruiser. State Police said the vehicle sustained heavy damage, Trooper Desilva was taken to an area hospital & was treated & released.

Delaware County Public Health continues to report a surge in COVID 19 cases, with 111 new positive cases reported on Tuesday & Wednesday. The County has 290 Active cases, 18 are now hospitalized and 290 are quarantined, only 53.4% of County Residents are fully vaccinated.

On Wednesday November 24th, 2021, the Town of Walton Court issued a bench warrant for the arrest of 41 year old Robert Smith of Walton, for failing to appear at court on a prior charge of criminal possession of stolen property. Delaware County Sheriff’ Deputies located Smith Tuesday in the Town of Walton, and arrested him on the bench warrant. Smith was arraigned at the Town of Walton Court and was released again in his own recognizance.

Families visiting the Susquehanna Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals on Saturday from 10:00 AM to 12:00 noon, can have their pictures taken with Santa, Mrs. Claus and the shelter’s adoptable pets. Family dogs are invited to participate as well, but must be up to date on vaccinations. To view available animals or to donate, visit sqspca.org. or call 607-547-8111, The New Shelter is located on State Route 28 in Cooperstown.

The Otsego County Fairgrounds in Morris is the site of this year's "Holiday Of Lights" Event. The event will run December 10th, 11th, 12th, 17th & 18th from 6:00 to 9:00 PM each night, the cost is $10 per carload, more information is available on the Otsego County Fair Facebook page.

Small Business Saturday may have already passed this holiday season, but area chambers are asking residents to continue to shop local wherever possible through the holiday season, Delaware County Chamber of Commerce President Ray Pucci explains:

(Ray Pucci 12-2-21)

Pucci said that 67% of money spent at local stores stays in the community, while shopping at chain stores contributes as low as only 14% to the community they are located in.

A.M. NEWS Thursday 12-2-21

Otsego County Department of Health reported 55 new cases of COVID 19 have been reported Wednesday, with an additional 22 cases also reported from November 18th to the 28th, which were in a nursing home and were not previously reported to the health department. Otsego County has 267 Active cases, with 8 Hospitalized & 2 more Deaths, Otsego County Department of Health recommends everyone, even those who are fully vaccinated, to wear a mask indoors in public, and to continue actively washing hands & practice social distancing.

Delaware County Public Health will be conducting a COVID-19 vaccination clinic today at 97 Main Street in Delhi from 2:00 to 4:00 PM. This clinic is open to people over the age of 18 & Boosters will be available at this clinic, pre-registration is required for all Moderna Boosters through apps2.health.ny.gov. The COVID vaccine is also available for people who are completing their first series

The caregivers of Bassett Medical Center will be holding a candle lighting service of remembrance in honor of patients who have died due to COVID-19 tonight at 7:00 PM. The in-person event for the families of the deceased will be held at the United Methodist Church in Fly Creek, The virtual event will be held on Zoom, the link is available at bassett.org/2021-memorial.

On Sunday evening, November 28th, 2021, Delaware County Sheriff’s Deputies were dispatched to a report of a car accident in the Town of Tompkins. 19-year old Tyler Wood of Sidney Center had 2 rifles in the vehicle, Wood is prohibited from possessing firearms, due to a previous felony conviction, he was charged with Criminal Possession of a Weapon & was released on an appearance ticket & is scheduled to appear in Town of Tompkins Court at a later date.

Delaware County Sheriff's Deputies observed a vehicle traveling on State Highway 10 in the Town of Walton, with one headlight out recently, the driver was identified as 22-year old Trevor Merwin of Walton, whose driver’s license was suspended for a previous failure to answer a summons. Merwin was charged with Aggravated Unlicensed Operation of a Motor Vehicle, Operating with Driver’s View Obstructed, and Operating with Inadequate Headlamps; he was released on tickets and is scheduled to appear at the Town of Walton Court at a later date.

P.M. NEWS WEDNESDAY 11-3-21

Mark Drnek won the race for Oneonta Mayor Tuesday, he told WCDO news of how the first weeks of his administration will go:

(Mark Drnek 11-3-21)

Drnek said that he has about 8 weeks to transition into the mayor's position, with help from outgoing mayor Gary Herzig.

Brian Doliver was elected Tuesday as the next Mayor of the City of Norwich, he told WCDO News that there a lot of big issues to deal with right from the start:

(Brian Doliver 11-3-21)

Doliver said that he will also reach out to former Norwich Mayors Christine Carnrike & Joe Mauriano, who he served with a member of the Norwich Common Council.

The National Baseball Hall of Fame & Museum announced that they will be receiving artifacts from the World Series Champion Atlanta Braves. Artifacts will include Spikes worn by Braves Game 6 starter Max Fried, a Batting helmet worn by World Series MVP Jorge Soler, a Bat used by Braves first baseman Freddie Freeman in Game 6 & the Jersey worn in Games 1 and 2 by Braves manager Brian Snitker.

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

A.M. News Wednesday 11-3-21

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

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

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

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

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

P.M. NEWS WEDNESDAY 9-29-21

Chenango County Public Health announced that next Tuesday, October 5th, they are hosting a Pfizer booster clinic for those eligible, from 1:00 to 4:00 PM at the South Plaza location in Norwich. About 400 appointments are available, more information or registration is available at co.chenango.ny.us. The County currently has 108 Active Cases of COVID 19, 29% are vaccinated cases, and 272 are quarantined.

The American Red Cross continues to ask the public to donate blood as soon as possible, as donations are at their lowest point since the summer of 2015. A Blood drive is being held in Cooperstown until 4:30 this afternoon at the St. Mary's Roman Catholic Church, at 31 Elm Street. Appointments can be made by using the Red Cross Blood Donor App, visiting RedCrossBlood.org or calling 1-800-RED CROSS.

Bassett Healthcare Network announced some temporary changes to services, this week, as they anticipated that there would be a significant shortage of employees, based on the state mandate that health care workers had to get COVID Vaccinations, or leave their jobs. Gabby Argo of Bassett Healthcare said that they had a high percentage of vaccinated workers:

(Gabby Argo 9-29-21)

Argo said that the most up-to-date information about temporary service changes can be found at bassett.org.

Governor Kathy Hochul today announced Dr. Mary Bassett has been appointed Commissioner of the Department of Health. From 2014 through summer 2018, Dr. Bassett served as commissioner of the New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene. Dr. Bassett replaces Dr. Howard Zucker, who served as Health Commissioner for just under 7 1/2 years.

A.M. NEWS WEDNESDAY 9-29-21

Delaware County Sheriff's Deputies investigated a personal injury car-deer accident on State Highway 206 in Trout Creek Saturday Night. 32 year-old Anthony Mister of Sidney collided with a deer and sustained a head injury, he was transported to Delaware Valley Hospital in Walton for treatment. A routine driver’s license inquiry revealed that Mister’s driver’s license was suspended for failure to answer a summons, he was charged with aggravated unlicensed operation of a motor vehicle, he was released and directed to appear in the Town of Tompkins Court on a later date.

The State Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance announced that construction is underway on Greater Opportunities for Broome and Chenango’s North Side Rehabilitation Project, that will create 27 units of permanent supportive housing across 4 sites in Binghamton. The 8.1 Million Dollar project will serve people who have experienced homelessness, mental illness, people who were formerly incarcerated, veterans, young adults and youth aging out of foster care.

Governor Hochul announced that all New Yorkers enrolled in SNAP will see their level of benefits increase next month resulting from a federal cost adjustment. On average, households enrolled in SNAP will see their regular benefits increase by about $36 per person. The U.S Department of Agriculture to re-calculated SNAP benefits, which resulted in the 1st increase in more than 45 years. In New York, a family of four will see their benefits increase from a maximum allotment of $680 to $835 under the new plan.

P.M. NEWS Wednesday 8-11-21

Lt. Governor Kathy Hochul held a press conference this afternoon, she said that she will continue with many of the policies, but not with the toxic drama associated with outgoing Governor Andrew Cuomo:

(Kathy Hochul 8-11-21

Governor Cuomo announced his resignation yesterday, Kathy Hochul will take over as Governor on August 24th.

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

(MEG ROSSMAN 8-11-21)

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

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

STATE POLICE reported that 57 year old James Jones of Louisiana was recovered from the Whitney Point Reservoir around 9:00 AM Tuesday, he was kayaking with another person when his kayak tipped over. His kayak was located but he did not resurface. The incident remains under investigation. Troopers were assisted by Broome County Sheriff’s, Chenango County Sheriff’s, Broome County Emergency Services, Broome County Technical Rescue Team, Whitney Point Fire, Harpursville Fire, West Windsor Fire, Chenango Bridge Fire, Vestal Fire, Killawog Fire, Lisle Fire, Greene Fire, Marathon Fire, Triangle Fire, Broome Ambulance, Greene Ambulance, Marathon Ambulance and Broome Security Division.

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

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

A.M. NEWS 8-11-21

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

(Mary Weidman 8-11-21)

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

P.M. NEWS WEDNESDAY 5-5-21

Governor Cuomo announced today the loosening of restrictions regarding the New York Mets & New York Yankees In their stadiums starting May 19th, where people vaccinated against COVID can sit in adjacent seats at a game, and those who are not will have to maintain social distancing in the ball parks.  Also, Broadway Theater will re-open in September and will be allowed 100% capacity when they re-open, as the COVID positivity rates & Hospitalizations go down.

(Cuomo 5-5-21)

WCDO Reached out to the Binghamton Rumble Ponies to see if the new guidelines will also apply to NYSEG Stadium, they had not yet been notified if the Major League Ballpark Guidelines will be allowed in the Minor League Ballparks.

The state continues to see favorable statistics regarding COVID 19, as Tuesday's statewide testing showed a positivity rate of 1.49%, the lowest numbers since last October.  The number of decreased by more than 100 to 2658, the number in ICU Beds went down by 15 to 610, and the number of Patients on Ventilators went down slightly to 379.  There were 31 deaths attributed to the COVID virus Tuesday in New York State.

Delaware County Public Health reported 4 new COVID cases Tuesday, out of 185 tested.   Delaware County reports decreases in active cases to 51, quarantines to 99 & hospitalizations to 8.

Cornell Cooperative Extension of Delaware County will be hosting a live stream Energy Chat on Tuesday, May 18th at 12:00 noon on Facebook Live.  This event will feature a discussion about Clean Energy Communities with Terry Carroll from Cornell Cooperative Extension of Tompkins County. More information is available at 865-6531 or ccedelaware.org.

A.M. NEWS WEDNESDAY 5-5-21

Governor Cuomo signed an extension of the COVID-19 Emergency Eviction and Foreclosure Prevention Act of 2020 and the COVID-19 Emergency Protect Our Small Businesses Act. The legislation extends protections prohibiting residential and commercial evictions, foreclosure proceedings, credit discrimination and negative credit reporting related to the COVID-19 pandemic until August 31st.

State Police found a missing toddler who was allegedly abducted in Minnesota after spotting the suspect’s vehicle on the Thruway Tuesday.   27-year-old Amina Mohamed of Minneapolis, is accused of kidnapping her little sister, 2-year-old Nasteha Mohamed, State police received a ‘be on the lookout’ notification for a gold Chevrolet Equinox, they were stopped near in the town of Elbridge, the child appeared to be in good health & will be in the care of Onondaga County Child Protective Services until she can be safely returned to her mother.   Amina Mohamed was taken into custody, the investigation is ongoing.

P.M. NEWS FRIDAY 4-16-21

Chenango County Public Health reported 3 more COVID related deaths today, bringing their total to 72 since that pandemic began. Chenango County has 113 active cases, 411 quarantined & 7 Hospitalizations; the number of tests conducted is now over 100,000.

Delaware County Sheriff’s Deputies responded Thursday to a report of a vehicle partially blocking Windfall Road in the Town of Tompkins.   Deputies located the vehicle & later located and identified the vehicle’s driver as Robert Price of Lansing.   Price’s New York State driving privileges were suspended and he had 16 current suspensions for failure to pay fine, failure to appear or answer summonses and failure to pay child support, his vehicle was unregistered and was displaying incorrect license plates.  Price was charged with aggravated unlicensed operation,  operating an unregistered motor vehicle, displaying improper plates and improper parking, he will appear in the Town of Tompkins Court at a later date.

The Otsego County Conservation Association’s Earth Festival will be held April 22nd to the 24th, highlighted by a "Drive Through, Drop Off" event on Saturday April 24th, Program Director Jeff O'Handley explains:

(Jeff O'Handley 4-16-21)

Preregistration is available at occainfo.org. more information is available at 282-4087.

National Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum President Tim Mead announced that he will be resigning, effective mid-May.  Mead was named President in April 2019 following a 40-year career working for the Los Angeles Angels organization; he became the 7th president in the 82-year history of the organization, succeeding Jeff Idelson.

A.M. NEWS FRIDAY 4-16-21

The State Labor Department announced that the state Economy Added 61,200 Private Sector Jobs in March.  The number of private sector jobs was over 7.4 Million; it was over 8.2 million before the pandemic.   New York State's seasonally adjusted unemployment rate decreased from 8.9% to 8.5% in March.

State Police at Norwich were dispatched Tuesday morning at about 10:00 AM to a reported domestic related incident involving 3 people at Fred's Inn in the town of Norwich.  An investigation revealed that 2 people were assaulted with a sharp object resulting in minor injuries; they were taken to Chenango Memorial Hospital & were treated and released.  The investigation is on-going and appears to be an isolated incident; Police are looking for 53 year old Jose Gonzalez of Norwich as a person of interest.

Otsego County Sheriff's Office arrested 50 year old David Lolik of Hartwick following a Domestic Dispute on March 22nd.   Lolik was charged with Criminal Contempt & Criminal Trespass; he was taken into custody and arraigned at the Otsego County Jail central arraignment where he was released on his own recognizance.

Delaware County Public Health reported 6 new COVID cases Thursday out of 684 tested, with 117 active cases, 233 mandatory quarantines & 19 hospitalized.

More than 50% of New Yorkers 18 years of age and older have received at least one dose of the COVID-19 vaccine, and more than 1 in 3 in the same age group have been fully vaccinated. More than 12.5 million doses of the vaccine have been administered in New York State. 198,257 doses have been administered across the state's vast distribution network in the last 24 hours, and more than 1.5 million doses have been administered over the past seven days.

P.M. NEWS TUESDAY 2-16-21

Chenango Public Health reported another COVID related death last week, bringing their total to 50. The County reports 19 hospitalized, 75 active cases & 247 quarantined, they've had a total of 2327 cases since last year.

Delaware County Public Health announced that there were 8 new cases of COVID 19 reported on Monday out of 115 tested, their active cases are at 129, the number hospitalized is 23 & 256 are quarantined.  Delaware County Public Health will continue to vaccinate 1B essential workers, this week, public health will be vaccinating people 65 and older with comorbidities, appointments can be made through the Office for the Aging at 607-832-5750, vaccines will continue to be available for people over 65 at pharmacies & state mass vaccination sites.

Bassett Healthcare Network has resumed partial visitation for inpatients at its hospital locations, Fox Hospital in Oneonta, Bassett Medical Center in Cooperstown, Cobleskill Regional Hospital, Little Falls Hospital, and O’Connor Hospital in Delhi.  Visitation hours are limited from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. and 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. on weekdays. On weekends, hours will be open from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m.  Visitation remains suspended at A.O. Fox Nursing Home in Oneonta, Valley Health Services in Herkimer, and all outpatient locations across the network, more information is available at bassett.org/covid-19.

Governor Cuomo announced his 30-day amendments to his Executive Budget proposal, which includes the establishment of an adult-use Marijuana program in the state:

(Cuomo 2-16-21)

The amendments also include funding for Job placement programs, adult education, mental health treatments, & also the reducing of penalties for 3 drug charges.  The budget is due to be passed by the legislature on Aprils 1st.

The Delaware County Chamber of Commerce will be starting their "Leaderful Delaware" classes virtually, starting in March on 2 afternoons a month for 8 months.  Chamber President Ray Pucci explains:

(Ray Pucci 2-16-21)

Applicants can go to Delawarecounty.org or call 746-2281 for an application or more information about the program.

A.M. NEWS TUESDAY 2-16-21

State Police arrested 2 people after a Trooper witnesses 1 man chasing another with a baseball bat in Unadilla January 26th.  The suspect with the baseball bat ran to the Unadilla House after seeing the trooper, the victim, 26 year old Justin Cirigliano of Bainbridge was taken to AO Fox Hospital Tri Town Campus in Sidney, he was found to be in possession of a syringe, & was charged with Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance & was will appear in the town of Unadilla court.   State Police arrested 44 year old Daniel Racquet of Unadilla for 2nd degree Assault & Menacing, after he was located at an unrelated incident and was hiding in a closet.  Racquet was transported to Otsego County Central Arraignment and Processing.

Delaware County Sheriff's Deputies responded to the report of a disabled vehicle on State Highway 206 on February 10th, they assisted 61-year-old Victor Passela of Arkville, who ran out of gas, the vehicle’s registration and Passela's driver’s license were both suspended, Deputies issued Passela traffic summonses for aggravated unlicensed operation, operating a motor vehicle with a suspended registration and failure to surrender his suspended license and registration, plus several other charges.   Passela will appear in the Town of Tompkins Court on a later date.

State Police arrested 37 year old Justin Lopez of Richfield Springs for Possessing Sexual Performance by a Child, following a cyber tip and a subsequent investigation, Lopez was arrested at his residence, he was processed at the State Police barracks in Richfield Springs, he was released & was ordered to appear for arraignment at the town of Richfield court on February 24th.