WCDO Radio News

P.M. NEWS WEDNESDAY 4-29-26

Hundreds of UTV riders showed up Sunday for the UTV ride & Poker Run through the woods in the town of Guilford, to raise money for the building of a new fire house for the Guilford Fire Department, organizers Teri Schunk & Roger Barnhart told WCDO News about the fundraiser:

(Teri Schunk-Roger Barnhart 4-29-26)

The Amount raised through the UTV ride participants, poker players & money raised from food located at PAK Construction in Guilford has not bee tabulated yet, it should be announced shortly.

3 More American Red Cross Blood Drives are being held today, as blood supplies remain low. The 1st on will be at the DCMO Boces Campus on State Route 206 from 9:30 to 2:30, another will be in Oneonta from 12:00 Noon until 5:00 PM at the SUNY Oneonta Hunt College Union, & the 3rd will be in Walton 1:30 to 5:30 PM, at the 1st Baptist Church on Townsend Street, make an appointment for either location at RedCrossBlood.org, by calling 1-800-RED CROSS or by using the Red Cross Blood Donor App.

Chenango County Health Department announced a free rabies clinic in Plymouth today. The Clinic will be held from from 5:30 to 6:30 PM at the Plymouth Fire Department. For More information call 607-337-1673.

Greater Opportunities of Broome and Chenango County, recently won the bid from the Norwich School District to purchase Flanagan Field on Plymouth Street in Norwich, they plan to build a $9 million multi-unit apartment project for low-income housing at the site. The sale of the parcel has to be approved by voters in the Norwich School District when they vote on the district budget on May 19th in the Norwich City School District Office, 89 Midland Drive in Norwich.

AM NEWS TUESDAY 4-14-26

Walton Fire Department and Emergency Squad were dispatched Sunday at about 2:00 PM to a working structure fire on Fish Hollow Road in the Town of Hamden, that was called in by a passerby. Upon arriving, units found a 2 1/2 story farm house with smoke & flames showing, by 3:00 pm the fire was under control, the structure was a total loss and 1 nearby structure was saved, No injuries were reported to the 3 residents or firefighters, mutual aid was provided by several area Fire Departments.

P.M. NEWS MONDAY 2-16-26

The Walton Police Department & the Delaware County District Attorney's Office announced the arrested of Walton High School teacher Eric Scofield for dissemination of indecent materials to Minors. 2 counts of a Sexually motivated felony, 7 counts of tampering with physical evidence & 5 counts of official misconduct, following a complaint that Scofield was engaging in improper communications with students. Scofield was brought to the Delaware County Correctional facility pending arraignment on the charges.

Delaware County Sheriff's Office arrested 48 year old Luke Lupo of Walton man on charges of Promoting Prison Contraband, after they received a complaint from the Delaware County Correctional Facility. Lupo allegedly possessed contraband while incarcerated at the Delaware County Correctional Facility on pre-existing charges. Lupo was arraigned and was remanded back to the custody of the Delaware County Correctional Facility on the charges that led to his initial incarceration.

Oneonta Fire Department responded to a fire at 57 Maple Street Saturday morning, 1st floor residents and visitors were able to leave the house safely, the 2nd floor apartments were under construction, the 1st floor apartment suffered water damage from fire operations, The cause of the fire has not yet been determined, Mutual aid was provided by Otego, West Oneonta and Franklin fire departments. no injuries were reported.

Otsego County Office of Emergency Services reported that the Garrattsville Fire Department and nearby departments responded to a structure fire at 436 Texas Road in New Lisbon. The house was fully involved, & was a total loss, several cats & a guinea pig were believed to have died in the blaze. One tanker responding to the blaze rolled onto its side in adverse weather conditions, no injuries at the fire or the accident were reported. The cause of the fire is being investigated.

Delaware County Sheriff's Office arrested 41 year old Joseph Jimenez of Walton for Assault, Menacing, and Criminal Possession of a Weapon, following an incident December 10th in Walton. Deputies were dispatched to an assault where Jimenez is accused of engaging in a physical domestic with a tenant of the household in which Jimenez allegedly produced a bladed weapon, stabbing the victim multiple times. Deputies arrested Jimenez was transported to the Delaware County Correctional Facility where he was held pending arraignment.

On Friday, Walton Fire and EMS were dispatched to a UTV accident, where the UTV had lost its brakes and hit a tree head on. There were 6 occupants at the time of the crash with no one wearing helmets. UTVs were brought to the remote scene and were used to transport EMS to the patients. All of the occupants were removed in a 45 minute span, 5 were removed by LifeNet helicopters or local Ambulance squads, The final patient had minor injuries and refused medical treatment.

Governor Kathy Hochul today announced that New York State's first-ever inflation refund checks up to $400 are now being sent to 8.2 million households statewide. Starting today, checks will be mailed directly to eligible New Yorkers, with deliveries to continue throughout October and November. There is no need to apply

Bassett Medical Center in Cooperstown has begun the next phase of its project to construct a childcare center on the hospital’s campus, which is expected to be completed in spring 2026. The facility will be called the Harrison House Childcare Center in honor of Dr. Francis Harrison, an internist who joined Bassett in 1928, The new facility will be at 1 Beaver Street & it will have space for 58 children, plus 15 additional spots for sick care. The center will employ around 18 staff members.

The 5th Annual Trout Creek Volunteer Fire Company will be held on Sunday September 28th, spokesman Roger Barnhart told WCDO about the event:

(Roger Barnhart 9-17-25)

Registration begins at 10:00 AM for the ride beginning as 12:00 Noon, proceeds will benefit the Trout Creek Fire Company.

The Walton Theatre Preservation Association looking to raise money for newer LED lights, plus fixtures & a digital control board to upgrade the 110 year old Theater’s lighting, Association President Jim Rice explains:

(Jim Rice 7-30-25)

Rice said that the fundraising effort deadline is September 21st, for more information, visit waltontheatre.org.

Delaware County Sheriff Craig DuMond announced that in observance of New York State Sheriff's Week, the Delaware County Sheriff's Office will be hosting an Open House event on Sunday, September 21st, 2025, from 12pm-3pm at their office located at 280 Phoebe Lane, Delhi. Live demonstrations will be conducted by the K-9 Teams, Drone Pilots, Project Lifesaver Team, and our Motor Vehicle Accident Reconstructionist, plus Certified Child Passenger Safety Technicians from Delaware County Public Health will conduct a Car Seat Safety event.

The City of Oneonta will be working on the sidewalk at the corner of Main St. and Ford Ave. near Community Bank today until completed. For more information, please contact the Department of Public Works at 432-2100 or dpsinfo@oneonta.ny.us.

UHS Delaware Valley Hospital has been awarded a $20 million grant through the State Department of Health. The Hospital recently announced plans to build a 4-story addition & the grant will support that expansion. The new building will house primary medical care services, specialty services, physical, occupational & speech therapy and a laboratory, The Medical Neighborhood Project is expected to begin shortly, with the anticipated completion by the end of 2027.

Delaware County Office for the Aging will present " Name that Scam" an interactive, and informative presentation from the Elder Abuse Center at Lifespan of Greater Rochester. The event will be held on September 25th at 10 am. at the Delaware County Sheriff's Department at 280 Phoebe Lane, Delhi, RSVP's are requested at 607-832-5750.

A.M. NEWS Wednesday 8-27-25

State Police and the Broome County Sheriff’s Department responded to a residential fire at a home on Broad Street in the town of Chenango, A 26-year-old female resident had been able to get herself and two children, ages five and two, out of the home, but was unable to get to a one-year-old due to the heavy thick smoke. Troopers and Sheriff’s Deputies were able to get in through a window and get the one-year-old out of the home. The child was transported to Upstate Medical Center and passed away from the injuries sustained in the fire. Troopers are working with Broome County Fire Investigators to determine the cause of the fire.

P.M. NEWS MONDAY 7-7-25

State Police were dispatched on July 4th to Ridge Runner Road in Hancock for a report of an accident with fireworks. A preliminary investigation at the scene indicates that 2 males were on a pontoon boat on Somerset Lake setting off fireworks when numerous fireworks apparently ignited at the same time causing an explosion. One male was transported to a local hospital with non-life-threatening injuries and the other male succumbed to his injuries on the scene.

Helios Care announced that their next "Camp Forget-Me-Not" will be held in Walton later this month, helping children deal with grief, spokesperson Meghan Sagese comments:

(Meghan Sagese 7-7-25)

The program is facilitated by Grief Professionals, Registration is required by July 14th, at 607-432-5225, the meeting will be held at the Townsend Elementary School, on July 24th from 9:00 AM to 4:30PM

An Ad-Hoc organization has been formed call the "Butternut Valley Neighbors", they will be holding a meeting this Thursday at the Morris Fire Hall regarding concerns that area resident may have regarding Federal budget cuts for various programs, spokesperson Andrea Hull explains:

(Andrea Hull 7-7-25)

The meeting at the Morris Fire House Thursday will begin at 6:30 PM, more information is available at 202-531-7393.

West Colesville Fire Chief James Sitek suffered a medical emergency while responding to the fire, Friday Morning in Conklin. Sitek was transported to Wilson Hospital where he was pronounced deceased, he served as the West Colesville Fire Chief for 3 years. The Case is currently under investigation by the Broome County Fire Investigation Office, the New York State Office of Fire Prevention and Control, and the Broome County Sheriff’s Office.

Over 2,000 people attended the 3rd annual Southern Tier Music Fest in Sidney at the Airport Saturday. About 400 walk up tickets were purchased due to the perfect weather conditions, there was 7 hours of music featuring headliner Uncle Kracker, plus a Queen & an AC/DC tribute band, Alyssa Crosby from “The Voice” and the 9-1-1 Band, the day ended with a Fireworks Display, Organizer Ed Curley told WCDO News that the even was deemed a complete success.

Delaware County Sheriff's Deputies responded recently to a report of a trespass in progress in the Village of Walton, with a physical altercation had occurred while in the presence of a child, and personal property belonging to multiple individuals had been damaged throughout the incident. Deputies arrested and charged both 34-year-old Charles Boecke and 27-year-old Siara Mettler for Endangering the Welfare of a Child and Criminal Mischief, they were both processed and released on appearance tickets returnable to the Village of Walton court at a later date.

P.M. NEWS WEDNESDAY 6-25-25

Unofficial results were released today regarding Tuesday's Primary Elections. In the Delaware County Republican Primary for the Treasurer's race, Carli Pinner defeated Ronda Williams with 56% of the vote, in the Town of Colchester, Robert Hafele will be the Republican candidate for Colchester Town Supervisor, David Rubera win the nomination in the Hancock town Supervisors race, James Ellis wins the nod in the Meredith Town Supervisors race, In the town of Sidney Board race, the nominees will be Frank Selleck & Andrew Hinkley, and for the Walton town board, the nominees will be Luis Rodriguez-Betancourt and Kevin Armstrong. In Chenango County, Ronald Sherman & Joel Lawrence won the Republican Party Nomination for Afton Town Board.

Delaware County Sheriff’s Deputies responded to a 1 Car Motor Vehicle Accident on County Highway 21 in the Town of Walton, they identified the driver as 75-year-old Erol Tural of Walton, Deputies charged Tural with, DWI and driving with a blood alcohol content of .08% or greater, Moving from a Lane Unsafely, Speed not Reasonable & other charges, Tural was released on appearance tickets and traffic summonses and was directed to appear in the Town of Walton Court at a later date.

A.M. NEWS WEDNESDAY 6-25-25

Tickets will be going on sale soon for the 138th Delaware County Fair in Walton, according to Fair President Jason Craig:

(Jason Craig 6-25-25)

More information about this year's fair can be found at delawarecountyfair.org.

State Police arrested 32 year old Jason Hubbell of Cooperstown, for 2nd degree Burglary, Criminal Mischief and Resisting Arrest. Troopers were dispatched to a report of a domestic dispute in Roseboom, Hubbell allegedly kicked in the front door of a residence, broke a secondary door then drove his vehicle into the victim’s vehicle before leaving the area. Troopers were able to locate Hubbell in Middlefield where he resisted arrest. Hubbell was ultimately taken into custody and later transported to the Otsego County Jail for Centralized Arraignment.

Commerce Chenango announced that they will hold an Open House at their new location at 19 East Main Street in Norwich, Today from 4:30 to 6:30 PM, those in attendance will get to see the plans for the Early Learning Center that will be located on the 1st floor of that building.

A.O. Fox Hospital will be conducting a routine water flow test of its fire sprinkler system today at approximately 6 pm. The test will last 1 to 2 Hours. Residents in the immediate area may notice a temporary drop in water pressure or a slight discoloration of water during and directly following the testing period. The safety of the water will not be compromised during this time. More information is available at 607-431-5405.

Otsego County Sheriff's Office has responded to the scene of a car crashing into a tree in the Village of Milford at about 1:00 PM today on State Route 28. The Otsego County Sheriff's Office, Otsego County EMS and the Milford Fire Department were currently at the scene, initial reports suggest that the car left the roadway and struck a tree. Traffic may be delayed in that area for clean up & accident reconstruction work.

The Afton Central School District closed at 11:30 this morning & all after school activities are canceled. The water in Afton was discolored or dirty, the Village of Afton Public Works Department told WCDO News that there was no water main break, but road crews using jack hammers adversely affected the quality of the water earlier today, it should clear up and there is NO order to boil water in effect.

A.M. NEWS WEDNESDAY 6-11-25

Delaware County Public Health, the New York National Guard and State Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services, is hosting a Citizen Preparedness Training Event today in Walton, DCPH Spokesperson Isabella Ziolkowski comments:

(Isabella Ziolkowski 6-11-25)

This event is free and open to the public. Registration is required to attend, call Delaware County Public Health at 607-832-5200. The event will be held from 6:00PM – 7:30PM at the New Hope Community Church, 45 Stockton Avenue, Walton.

The American Red Cross will have a Blood Drive today from 9 am. - 2 pm., at the Downsville Fire Department, 15166 State Highway 30, Schedule a time to give now by visiting RedCrossBlood.org, calling 1-800-RED CROSS or by using the Red Cross Blood Donor App.

P.M. NEWS WEDNESDAY 5-14-25

4 people were injured in a 2 car crash on State Highway 206 near Bear Spring Mountain Tuesday at about 4:00 PM. Walton Fire and EMS were dispatched they found 2 vehicles with heavy front-end damage, 1 went over the guardrail and down the embankment, 2 patients were transported to Delaware Valley Hospital, 2 others were airlifted to trauma centers by LifeNet helicopters. The road was closed for several hours last night for accident reconstruction & clean up.

Governor Kathy Hochul today announced that inflation refund checks up to $400 will be sent this fall to 8.2 million households across New York State. Checks will be mailed directly to eligible New Yorkers starting in October and will continue through November. There is no need to apply, sign up or do anything to receive a check. Governor Hochul secured and enacted this initiative in the FY 2026 State Budget, Visit ny.gov/inflationrefund for More Information.

A.M. NEWS Wednesday 5-14-25

On May 1st, 22 year old Seth Ostrander of Unadilla was arrested and charged with 2nd degree Attempted Murder and Criminal Use of a Firearm. State Police & Delaware County Sheriff’s Deputies responded to a report of a domestic disturbance on State Highway 8 in the town of Masonville, Troopers determined that a verbal argument had escalated into a physical altercation during which Ostrander discharged a shotgun in the direction of another individual. The victim was not struck by the gunfire and declined further medical treatment at the scene. Ostrander was taken into custody and arraigned at Delaware County Centralized Arraignment. The investigation is ongoing.

Binghamton Fire Department responded Monday night to a house fire at 72 Thorp Street, which caused damage to an adjacent house. The structure was deemed a total loss, the cause of the fire was a lithium-ion battery failure, no injuries were reported.

State DEC announced that the regular spring turkey season for all licensed turkey hunters opens May 1st, Spring turkey harvests average 16,000 to 18,000 birds, Sporting licenses may be purchased online at any time, Licenses can also be displayed digitally using the HuntFishNY mobile app, licenses are also available in person at more than 1,100 Agents across the State, For more information about sporting licenses, dec.ny.gov.

A.M. NEWS MONDAY 4-28-25

Chenango Sheriff Office arrested 47 year old Andrew Harris of Plymouth for Obstructing Fire Fighting Operations, Reckless Endangerment of Property, Unlawful Imprisonment. Harris was arrested after deputies determined he would not let fire department personnel extinguish a house fire in the Town of Plymouth. Harris was found standing in his driveway in close proximity to a fully involved house fire, he aggressive yelled at emergency personnel and failed to obey lawful orders, Deputies also determined that Harris committed crimes the night before against his girlfriend during a domestic incident, he was arraigned & released on his own recognizance.

A Citizen Preparedness Training Event will be held today at 6:00 PM in Margaretville at the Town Hall, hosted by Delaware County Public Health, with representatives from the New York National Guard & The State Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services. Isabella Ziolkowski of Delaware County Public Health explains:

(Isabella Ziolkowski 4-11-24)

This event is free and open to the public, Ziolkowski said that they are planning to do additional training events in Walton & Sidney as soon as possible.

Delaware County Sheriff’s Deputies responded Saturday to an ATV crash near Fuller Hollow Road in the Town of Hamden. Prior to Deputies’ arrival, Delaware County 911 reported that a victim had been privately transported to Delaware Valley Hospital in the Village of Walton with a second victim still on scene. Deputies located the 2nd victim, an 11-year-old male, at a residence, who was transported to Albany Medical Center by Life Net for non-life-threatening injuries. The 1st Victim was a 13-year-old female who was pronounced deceased at the Delaware Valley Hospital, due to injuries sustained from the crash.

The Chenango County Historical Society will participate in Giving Tuesday, on December 3rd. Giving Tuesday asks people to donating to local charities, Giving Tuesday is held on the Tuesday after Thanksgiving. Also, the annual Holiday Open House and Museum Store Sunday will be from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM on December 1st at the Chenango County Historical Society on Rexford Street in Norwich.

The Bainbridge Chamber of Commerce will hold their next meeting tomorrow morning in Bainbridge. The meeting will begin at 7:30 am at the back of Bob's Diner, Chamber members are urged to attend.

A.M. NEWS MONDAY 11-18-24

The FEMA authorized the use of federal funds to assist in combating the Catskills Wildfires, The Grant Declaration will allow for funding to help cover costs associated with responding to the Jennings Creek/Sterling State Park wildfire and protecting those in its path. Statewide there were 13 wildfires reported Sunday, encompassing more than 5,000 acres, the state wide burn ban remains in effect.

Firefighters from Sidney Center & surrounding departments responded to the report of a structure fire late Sunday morning at 1129 Vandervoort Hill Road. The fire was contained to the basement and was quickly extinguished, no injuries were reported.

UHS Chenango Memorial Hospital Auxiliary will launch “Be the Light,” to illuminate Newton House on Broad Street in Norwich. With a suggested donation of $20, community members can purchase a light that celebrates or memorializes a loved one. Names of honorees will be displayed at CMH throughout December. Proceeds will benefit the Auxiliary’s efforts to support patient services at CMH, the lighting ceremony and reception on Tuesday, December 3rd at 5:30pm at Newton House. For more information, call 607-337-4151.

Commerce Chenango's Thanksgiving Luncheon will be held Today at 11:00 AM at Saint Bart's in Norwich, more information is available at Commercechenango.com

The Delaware County Planning Board announced that they plan to develop a Strategic Comprehensive Plan, to guide future growth, development, and preservation in the County. Fisher Associates will lead the planning process and public engagement efforts. Public Input Sessions will be on Monday, September 16, from 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM at the Hobart Community Center & Tuesday, September 17 from 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM at the Walton Fire Hall, on West Street. The input gathered from the public survey and during these initial input sessions will be reviewed by Delaware County Planning and Fisher Associates, followed by additional opportunities for public review and comment.

Broadway In Binghamton will host an open house event Tuesday, September 10 from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM, offering patrons an opportunity to explore the Forum Theatre and "Test Drive" seats for the upcoming season. Broadway In Binghamton staff will be on hand to answer any questions about the 2024-2025 M&T Bank Broadway Season, as well as additional information on subscriber benefits, and group booking information. The 2024-2025 Season includes: Ain’t Too Proud – The Life and Times of the Temptations, The Cher Show, The Addams Family, and Chicago. For more information, go to BroadwayInBinghamton.com.

A.M. NEWS THURSDAY 9-5-24

State Police responded late Tuesday Night & early Wednesday Morning to 2 multiple vehicle crashes on I-81 in the towns of Lisle & then Marathon. The 1st accident occurred when 28 year old Singh Simran of Calgary, Alberta went off the roadway into the grassy median & attempted to bring the tractor trailer back into the roadway but overturned, blocking both lanes, 19 year old Danial Kirmani struck the cab with his car, 2nd tractor trailer operated by 67 year old Mykola Khudyk of Quebec collided with the trailer portion of the first tractor trailer, Kirmani was transported to Wilson Hospital for minor injuries. in the 2nd accident, in the town of Marathon, 31 year old Nicholas Espino of Bronx, failed to observe another tractor trailer slowing down, driven by 34 year old Gregory Wilson of Mexicao New York, & rear ended it, No injuries were reported. The portion of I-81 from Marathon to Lisle was closed for several hours due to the dense fog, clean up & the investigation of both crashes, The highway was reopened at 8:30 Wednesday Morning.

Chenango County residents are signing up for the next Household Hazardous Waste Collection day to be held on August 10th at the Chenango County Highway Garage on Rexford Street in Norwich. David Blackman of Chenango DPW told WCDO News what they can not accept at this event:

(David Blackman 7-15-24)

More information about he Household Hazardous Waste Collection day for Chenango Count is available at 607-337-1792.

State Comptroller Tom DiNapoli announced that the Property tax levy growth will be capped at 2% for 2025 for local governments that operate on a calendar-based fiscal year. The figure affects tax cap calculations for all counties, towns, and fire districts, as well as 44 cities and 13 villages. DiNapoli’s office calculated the 2025 inflation factor at 3.3% for those local governments, which set the cap at the 2% allowable levy increase.

2 American Red Cross Blood Drives will be held in Delaware County today, 1 in Walton from 12 p.m. - 5 p.m., at the Watershed Agricultural Council, 44 West Street, another will be held in Roxbury from 9 a.m. - 2 p.m., at the Carriage House, on Main Street, to make an appointment, download the American Red Cross Blood Donor App, visit RedCrossBlood.org, call 1-800-RED CROSS

WCDO NEWS Friday 7-12-24

The annual Gus Macker 3 on 3 Basketball Tournament is this weekend & it is back in Downtown Norwich this year. About 250 teams were signed up, anyone interested in volunteering can call the Norwich YMCA at 607-336-9622 extension 0. Registration will be today from 4:00 to 7:00 PM at the Norwich Fire House.

The Town of Colchester Police & State EnCon Police responded to a motorcycle accident July 6th, Officers located a Harley Davidson off the road into trees. The operator of the vehicle 45 year old Larry Plows of Sidney was located down an embankment with serious head and internal injuries, Plows was transported to Delaware Valley Hospital in Walton where he was pronounced deceased.

2 more American Red Cross Blood Drives will be held today, 1 in Cooperstown from 11:30 am. - 4:30 pm., at the Cooperstown Fire Department, another will be held in Edmeston from 10 am. - 3 pm., at Pathfinder Village, 3 Chenango Road, to schedule an appointment, download the American Red Cross Blood Donor App, visit RedCrossBlood.org, call 1-800-RED CROSS.

Oneonta Fire Fighters responded to a fire Sunday morning on Columbia Street, several occupants escaped, the fire began on the 1st floor, The cause of the fire is under investigation, the house is uninhabitable.

Blood Supplies are still critically low, there will be 2 Red Cross Blood Drives locally today. A Walton blood drive will be held from 1:30 pm. - 6 pm., at the Pines Brook Church, Another will be held from 10 am. - 3 pm., at Springbrook, 105 Campus Drive in Oneonta, appointments are requested at RedCrossBlood.org, 1-800-RED CROSS or by using the Red Cross Blood Donor App.

Local sales tax collections in New York state increased by 0.3% in January compared to the same month in 2023, according to State Comptroller Tom DiNapoli. Collections totaled nearly $1.9 billion, up $4.8 million from the same time last year, with the increase led by New York City's 3.5% increase, County and city collections in the rest of the state had a decrease of -2.8%, as 27 of 57 remaining counties experienced year-over-year increases.

A.M. NEWS WEDNESDAY 2-21-24

Unadilla Fire Department was alerted for a house fire in the town of Unadilla Monday night with possible entrapment. Crews responded & it was quickly confirmed that all subjects were accounted for and out of the structure. One subject was transported to A.O. FOX Hospital, firefighters were able to halt the fire before it could spread to the rest of the residence. Unadilla received assistance from Franklin, Sidney Center, Wells Bridge, and Otego Fire Departments, the cause of the fire is under investigation.

The American Red Cross will be holding 2 blood drives in Delaware County today, 1 drive will be held from 9:00 AM to 2:00 PM at the Downsville Fire Department, another will be held from 12:30 pm. to 5:30 pm., at the Walton First Baptist Church, 55 Townsend Street, Appointments are available at RedCrossBlood.org, downloading the Red Cross Blood Donor App, or calling 1-800-RED CROSS

P.M. NEWS MONDAY 12-11-23

The Town of Oneonta has adjusted the restricted area to the public to properties close to the area around Saturday's explosion & fire at Richards Avenue in Oneonta's West End. Residents within the affected area will be allowed to secure their homes from the outside only, Town of Oneonta Code Enforcement will be on scene with NYSEG to assist residents, the Code Enforcement Office phone number is 607-432-8606. The phone number for town hall is 607-432-2900. A representative from Mobile Crises Assessment Team is at the Oneonta Town Hall today and Wednesday at starting at 10:00 AM for anyone who needs assistance, their phone number is 315-732-6228.

The Jericho Arts Council is now looking for artists to participate in next year's Regatta Row 2024. Spokesperson Rachel Hares explains:

(Rachel Hares 12-11-23)

The chairs will be displayed in Bainbridge from April to Memorial Day Weekend, when they are auctioned off during the General Clinton Canoe Regatta, applications and details are available online at jerichoarts.com, more information is available at 607-643-2211.

A.M. NEWS MONDAY 12-11-23

On Saturday at approximately 5:30 pm; The Otsego County 911 Center received multiple 911 calls reporting an explosion and residential structure fire on Richards Avenue in the Town of Oneonta. The Oneonta Fire Department and multiple mutual aid departments responded. Upon arrival, they found multiple structures with severe damage and an active structure fire. Deputies and members of various fire departments assisted residents in the immediate area with a precautionary evacuation. Once the fire was extinguished, 60 year old Desmond Moan was found deceased. A neighboring resident received medical attention for minor injuries sustained during the explosion, the initial investigation determined the cause of the fire at 18 Richards Avenue was a result of human error.

1 person has died as a result of a house fire Friday night at 72 Colfax Avenue in Binghamton, 2 dogs were also killed by the flames. Binghamton Fire fighters arrived at the scene, they found heavy flames coming from 72 Colfax spreading to 74 Colfax Ave. Firefighters removed 1 person from the house, who was transported to a nearby hospital and was pronounced dead. The cause of the fire is still under investigation.

The Unadilla Fire was dispatched to a possible structure fire in the town of Unadilla on Kilkenny Road, at about 4:15 Saturday afternoon. Additional personnel were called in from Franklin, Wells Bridge, and Sidney Fire departments, it took approximately 25 minutes to get the fire knocked down.

The Tioga County District Attorney’s Office announced that 32 year old Boyd Fenton of Athens, Pennsylvania was arraigned on a 105-count indictment for setting a fire at Tioga Downs that killed 30 horses, destroyed the barn, injured a trainer, he was indicted for arson, assault, burglary, 38 counts of criminal mischief, 30 counts of interference with or injury to domestic animals; 31 counts of overdriving, torturing and injuring animals; aggravated cruelty to animals; bail for Fenton has been set at $25,000 cash, $50,000 property and $250,000 secured bond.

Delaware County District Attorney's Office announced that 44 year old Laura Davis of Big Indian was indicted for Drugged Driving by the Delaware County Grand Jury on December 7th. The Indictment alleges that on March 3rd, Davis was driving in the Village of Walton while her ability to operate that motor vehicle was impaired by a stimulant, she was also charged with Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance, and Possession of a Controlled Substance Outside of its Original Container.

4Towns Forward announced that Santa's Mailbox is set up in 2 locations, for children who would like to send Santa a letter this holiday season. Santa Mailbox will be available today through December 18th at Bob’s Diner in Bainbridge and Roasted Coffee House in Sidney, drop off times are between 6:00 am - 2:00 pm daily.

A.M. NEWS MONDAY 12-4-23

11 Fire Companies responded Friday night a fire in Stamford. The buildings were on fire at 62 to 64 Main Street in Stamford, 2 historic buildings were lost, the fire displaced 30 residents and 2 businesses, 2 residents & 2 firefighters were injured, with non-life threatening injuries. The Red Cross & Churchill Gym helped displaced residents, the cause of the fire is under investigation. The Stamford Village Hall will accept donations today through Friday from 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM. Locally, Waste Recovery Enterprises of Sidney is collecting donations of canned food & toiletries for the 11 families displaced, teh items can be dropped off at their location at Valley View Road & they will deliver them to Stamford.

Delaware County Sheriff's Deputies responded to a call, where it was alleged that a fully disabled and incompetent individual had been left on a bus after it was parked for the evening, & after noticing that the victim had not returned home, a residential facility aid had discovered the victim’s location and brought her to a hospital. Deputies charged the bus driver, 74 year-old Lyndon Doig and the aid, 63 year-old Norma Castro, both of Walton, with endangering the welfare of an incompetent or physically disabled person, they are scheduled to appear in front of the Walton Town Court at 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.

Oneonta Fire fighters were dispatched last night to a fire 15 Fonda Avenue. The fire was reported at about 7:45, with several area departments on standby, the fire was quickly extinguished and more details are expected later today.

Delaware County Sheriff's Deputies received a complaint regarding a group of students from Walton High School who received a message via a social media app, which contained threats to bomb the Walton School and cause harm to other students. Deputies responded to Walton and interviewed multiple students and it was determined that the threat was made after school hours and that an 18 year-old student of Walton High School did make threats to “bomb” the Walton High School. The juvenile was charged with Making a Terroristic Threat and was held at the Delaware County Correctional Facility for arraignment.

An American Red Cross will hold a Blood Drive at the Otego Fire house today from 12:30 to 5:30 P.M. Appointments can be made at downloading the the Red Cross Blood Donor App, by calling 1-800 RED CROSS or at redcrossblood.org.

P.M. NEWS TUESDAY 9-19-23

41 year old Paul Thayer of Utica was sentenced in Delaware County Court for his conviction of Attempted Dissemination of Indecent Materials to a Minor. On May 2nd, Thayer drove from Utica to the Village of Walton to meet a person he believed to be a 14 year old boy after sending the boy numerous text messages soliciting sexual acts. Thayer admitted he believed the boy was 14, the boy was actually a fictitious entity controlled by an organization dedicated to catching sexual predators, Judge Hubbard sentenced him to a 3-year term of probation supervision, which will include specific sex offender terms and conditions.

A free Health & Wellness Fair will be held on Saturday, from 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM on the Bainbridge Village Green. Reverend Kenneth Simurro of the 1st Presbyterian Church of Bainbridge & The United Presbyterian Church of East Guilford is helping to organize the event & he told WCDO news of some of the key participants:

(Rev. Kenneth Simurra 9-19-23)

Reverend Simurra said that the other participants include the Bainbridge Fire Department, and the Lighthouse Cancer Support Group among many others, there will also be a bake sale & winter clothing and personal hygiene giveaway. A blood drive will be held at the Town Hall. More information is available by email to healthfairbainbridge@gmail.com.

The Unadilla Historical Society is having a Fall Open House tonight at the Village & Town Museum at 133 Main Street in Unadilla. The event runs from 6:30 to 8:30 PM & is open to the public.

A.M. NEWS TUESDAY 9-19-23

State Police arrested 48 year old Theresa Price of Utica for 3rd degree Grand Larceny. Troopers were advised last week that Price took a used vehicle for a test drive from a car dealership, told them she’d like the vehicle checked out by her mechanic but never returned. An investigation revealed that on September 15, the vehicle was traveling on Interstate 90. Price and the vehicle were located at a truck stop in the town of Pembroke. She was arrested and was processed and was turned over to the Otsego County Jail for Arraignment.

P.M. NEWS FRIDAY 8-25-23

60 year old John Hussey of Walton, pleaded guilty in Walton Town Court for Driving While Intoxicated. On February 21st, a State Trooper responded to the report of a vehicle stuck in a ditch on Beebe Road, the Trooper found Hussey face down in the ditch, he was uncooperative & impaired, he refused to take a Field Sobriety Test and attempted to get into his vehicle, Hussey was arrested & taken into custody. Hussey was sentenced Thursday, he had his license revoked for 6 months, was assessed a fine and surcharge, and ordered the installation of an Ignition Interlock Device, he will also be required to enroll in the Impaired Driving Program and the Victim Impact Panel.

Broome County Sheriff's Office announced the arrest of 2 people following a home invasion with shots fire Wednesday evening at Bradley Creek Road in the Town of Maine. Sheriff Akshar explained at a Press Conference this afternoon.:

(Sheriff Akshar 8-25-23)

Sheriff Akshar said that 2 people were arrested within 3 hours of the incident; 21 year old Jayvon Phillip & 31 year old Rozlyn Warthen of Binghamton were each charged with Attempted Murder, Attempted Burglary & Criminal Use of A Firearm, Phillip sustained a gunshot wound to his leg during the incident and was being treated at a local hospital when he and Warthen were arrested. The investigation is currently open and active. If anyone has additional information related to this case, please call the Broome County Sheriff’s Office Detectives Division at 607-778-1196

The Johnson City Central School District announcing the resignation of middle school principal Daniel Erickson of Greene. Erickson was arrested in July after he allegedly attempted to lure a 16-year-old former student through social media, to perform sexual acts with him. He was remanded to Broome County Jail and released on bail on July 12.

A.M. NEWS Friday 8-25-23

Otsego County Residents will have 2 opportunities to properly dispose of Household Hazardous waste today & tomorrow, County Solid Waste Spokesman Kyle King told WCDO News what they are accepting:

(Kyle King 8-25-23)

King said that the 1st event is in Unadilla at the Town Highway building this morning from 8:00 to 11:00 AM, the 2nd event will be at the Meadows Office Complex in Cooperstown Saturday from 8:00 AM to 1:00 PM, no pre-registration is required, more information is available at Otsegocounty.com.

A Red Cross Blood Drive is being held today in Unadilla from 12 pm. - 5 pm. at the Unadilla Fire Department, 77 Clifton St, Schedule an appointment to give by downloading the Red Cross Blood Donor App, visiting RedCrossBlood.org or calling 1-800-RED CROSS.

Congressman Marc Molinaro announced he is hosting an Open House event at his Broome County Office in Binghamton today at 49 Court Street Suite 210 from 3:00pm to 5:00pm. The event is open to the public. Constituents will be able to connect with Rep. Molinaro and his office to share comments, and learn how the office can help resolve issues with federal agencies like the VA, IRS, and Social Security Administration.

The Delaware County IRT will be held July 11th through the 19th at the Walton High school, featuring a variety of free services for Medical, Dental, Veterinary as well as mental health, Director of Delaware County Planning & Watershed Affairs, Shelly Johnson-Bennett said that most of the services are available without an appointment, but one service requires registration:

(Shelly Johnson-Bennett 7-5-23)

WCDO News conducted a full interview with Shelly Johnson Bennett recently about the event, you can hear that full interview following the 6:00 PM news tonight on WCDO.

The Gus Macker Basketball Tournament is this weekend at the Norwich High School, organizers are looking for scorekeepers and other positions, according to organizer Tom Revoir:

(Tom Revoir 7-5-23)

Those interested should contact Tom Revoir at 607-336-9622 extension 29.

A.M. NEWS WEDNESDAY 7-5-23

Morris Fire Fighters responded to a blaze at a vacant house at 50 South Broad Street Saturday at around 5:15 pm. Mutual aid was received from fire fighters in West Laurens, South New Berlin, Gilbertsville, Pittsfield, Edmeston, Unadilla and Otego, the cause of the fire is under investigation, no injuries were reported.

Several Fire Companies responded Monday night to a fire at 242 Lippa Road in the town of Colesville. The fire was reported shortly after 10:00pm & the house was fully engulfed when firefighters arrived. No injuries have been reported, the investigation is continuing.

The Oxford Fire Department was dispatched to a structure Friday early Friday morning. 1 silo was destroyed, an adjacent was was saved by firefighters from several other area fire departments, no injuries to firefighters were reported, the property was vacant at the time of the blaze. The Chenango County Office of Emergency Services is investigating the cause of the fire.

Delaware County will host an Innovative Readiness Training mission, or "IRT" which will be bringing medical professionals to the Walton High School July 11th through the 19th, providing free Medical, Dental & Veterinary services. Director of Delaware County Planning & Watershed Affairs, Shelly Johnson-Bennett told WCDO News that they will need some volunteers for a variety of functions at the event:

(Shelly Johnson-Bennett 6-27-23)

the link to volunteer is available at delawareopportunities.org, WCDO will air the full interview with Shelly Johnson-Bennett on Wednesday night July 5th following the 6:00 PM news.

The State continues to closely monitor air quality for potential impacts from Canadian wildfires, as well as ozone and other pollutants. The current DEC forecast for Wednesday shows the potential for unhealthy air quality to impact most of the state with thick surface smoke overnight Wednesday. More information is available at airnow.gov

Delhi Telephone, or DTC, announced that they will be holding a Meet & Greet with Walton residents on Saturday July 15th at the Walton Fire Department from 11:00 AM to 2:00 PM. DTC will donate $25.00 to the Walton Fire Department for every installation that Walton Residents sign up for at the event. DTC is currently installing infrastructure in the village of Walton for their High Speed Internet services.

Several Area Fire companies responded to a fire on Stowell Road in Smyrna late Monday night. 1 man was airlifted to a Syracuse hospital for burns, the house was completely destroyed, the cause of the fire is being investigated.

P.M. NEWS FRIDAY 4-28-23

Delaware County District Attorney's office announced that 45 year old Timothy Bennett of Walton, pleaded guilty to Aggravated Driving While Intoxicated by alcohol and Aggravated Unlicensed Operation of a Vehicle, Wednesday. Bennet crashed his car in January on State Highway 10, in the Town of Walton. The investigation revealed that the Bennet was intoxicated by alcohol and had a BAC of .18 & had a suspended driver’s license, he was sentenced to a 3-year term of probation supervision, he must complete the impaired driver program and a victim impact panel, undergo a drug and alcohol evaluation, & he must install an ignition interlock device in any vehicle he owns, his license was revoked for a minimum of 1 year, and he was ordered to pay over $1600 in fines and surcharges.

The Unadilla & Bainbridge Fire Departments will hold their annual Open House & recruitment effort Tomorrow, according to Bainbridge Fire Department spokesman Roger Barnhart:

(Roger Barnhart 4-28-23)

More information about Saturday activities can be obtained at 607-349-5101, or by calling the Bainbridge or Unadilla Fire Departments.

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 in Norwich. Norwich residents will have the change to talk to new Norwich Police Chief Reuben Roach and City of Norwich Fire Department Chief Jan Papelino,

A.M. NEWS TUESDAY 3-28-23

Walton fire fighters responded to 14 Tripp Avenue in Walton last Wednesday for a shed and a garage fire that spread to a nearby house. Firefighters arrived to the scene, 2 occupants had escaped the fire, 2 neighboring homes were evacuated, The shed and garage were destroyed, home suffered significant damage on the second floor, 1 firefighter suffered a minor injury and was treated at the scene. Walton was assisted by Delhi and Trout Creek Fire Departments, Sidney Fire Department’s FAST team. The cause of the fire is under investigation.

P.M. NEWS Thursday 3-16-23

Delaware County Sheriff's office arrested 2 people following an investigation of a motor vehicle accident. On Monday night, Deputies responded to a 1 car motor vehicle accident with injuries on State Highway 206, near Davis Road in the Town of Walton. 1 vehicle left the roadway, struck a tree, Deputies made contact with the driver, 41-year-old Christine Falsetta of Sidney, she was charged with Driving while ability impaired by drugs, Aggravated Unlicensed Operator and Moving from a lane unsafely, Falsetta was released on tickets returnable to the Town of Walton Court at a later date. Falsetta was released to a third party identified as 49-year-old Shawn Smith of Sidney, a check of Smith’s driver’s license revealed his was suspended, Smith was charged with Aggravated Unlicensed Operation of a Motor Vehicle as well as Failing to turn in his License to DMV and Unlicensed Operator, he was released on the uniformed traffic tickets and is scheduled to appear in the Town of Walton Court at a later date.

Broome County District Attorney’s Office announced that 19 year old Savon Turrell of Binghamton, pleaded guilty in Broome County Court to Criminal Possession of a Weapon. Turrell admitted that on May 3, 2022, he illegally possessed a loaded 45 caliber pistol. Binghamton Police responded to a report of shots fired with the suspects leaving the scene in a light-colored Dodge Caliber. Police tracked the vehicle to a house on Oak Street. Turrell was located & was arrested, no one was injured in the shooting. Turrell will be sentenced to 3 ½ years in New York State prison followed by 3 years post release supervision on May 19th.

The Firefighters Association of the State of New York announced that their annual RECRUIT NY event will be held shortly across the state. Volunteer fire departments will open their doors to residents Saturday, April 22nd and Sunday, April 23rd, as part of the 14th annual RecruitNY weekend, to try to increase the numbers of firefighters. Individuals looking to find out if their fire department is participating in RecruitNY, can visit recruitny.org/participation-area.

A.M. NEWS Thursday 3-16-23

Otsego County Sheriff's Office arrested 29 year old Bret VanValkenburg of Bainbridge following a Burglary Investigation in the Town of Laurens. Vanvalkenburgh was charged with 2nd degree Burglary & 3rd degree Grand Larceny, VanValkenburgh allegedly entered an occupied residence on June 29th 2021 and stole a set of car keys, & stole the victim’s Chevrolet Trax, which was found abandoned in the Village of Sidney. An Otsego County Grand Jury indicted Vanvalkenburgh, who was being held in the Delaware County jail on an unrelated charge, he was arraigned in Otsego County Court this week & bail was set at $1,000 cash bail or $10,000 bond and he was returned to the Delaware County Correctional Facility.