WCDO Radio News

P.M. NEWS TUESDAY 6-30-26

With extreme heat forecast in the Tri-County Region over the next few days, Cooling stations will be open at various location, in Delaware County, cooling stations will be at the Sidney Memorial Public Library, the Andes Public Library, other locations may be announced, In Chenango County, designated emergency cooling centers include the Guernsey Memorial Library at 3 Court Street, in Norwich, the Sherburne Public Library, more information may be available from the Chenango County Clerk's Office. IN Otsego County, cooling centers include the Southside Mall, The Foxcare Center as well as the greater Plains & Wilber Pools in Oneonta or the Clark Sport Center in Cooperstown, more information is available at the State Department of Health

Governor Kathy Hochul today announced that more than $10 million in funding was awarded to 20 projects as part of Round 2 of the Municipal Parks and Recreation (MPR) Grant Program to fund the development and improvement of municipal parks and recreation sites statewide for the public to enjoy. Funding for this program was provided by the $4.2 billion Clean Water, Clean Air and Green Jobs Environmental Bond Act. 1 of the awards will go to the City of Norwich, they receive $810,000 to improve safety, accessibility and play opportunities by replacing aging playground equipment, court space and safety surfacing at the park on Hale Street.

A.M. NEWS TUESDAY 6-30-26

State and local law enforcement agencies will increase patrols to crack down on reckless and impaired driving statewide ahead of and during the July 4th holiday weekend. This campaign began Monday & will run through Sunday, July 5. Law enforcement officers across New York will conduct sobriety checkpoints and target dangerous and aggressive driving during what is considered the busiest travel weekend of the summer. To help ease travel during the busy holiday weekend, temporary lane closures for road and bridge construction projects on New York State highways will be suspended from 6 am. Thursday, July 2, through 6 am. Monday, July 6, some work may continue behind permanent concrete barriers or for emergency repairs.

The Unadilla Fire Department was alerted to a possible structure fire in the town of Unadilla on State Route 7 near the State Police Barracks, around 12:00 AM earlier today, Unadilla Firefighters were able to make an aggressive push into the residence and contain the fire to the room of origin. Crews were back and in service by 4:45am, Unadilla was assisted by Sidney Fire Department & EMS, and the Wells Bridge, Franklin, Otego & Sidney Center Fire Departments.

The Raymond Corporation will celebrate its 11th annual Manufacturing Day tomorrow by welcoming students to the Greene facility. Ryan DeLaney, VP of Operations told WCDO news about the event:

(Ryan DeLaney 10-8-25)

The event will be held in person, with about 125 people signed up, there were virtual sessions that were well attended during the Pandemic, with the shift back to in person tours in the last couple of years.

A.M. NEWS WEDNESDAY 10-8-25

A Chenango County Grand Jury handed up felony indictments recently, Shane Lum was indicted for criminal possession of a controlled substance with intent to sell and possession of cocaine, following a June 1st arrest in New Berlin. Also, Sherri Campbell was indicted for failing to register an address change, within the 10 days required by law for sex offenders, both will appear in Chenango County Court in the near future.

P.M. NEWS THURSDAY 8-28-25

On Wednesday morning, detectives from the Norwich Police Department successfully concluded a drug investigation, resulting in the seizure of 64 grams of fentanyl—an amount capable of causing tens of thousands of fatal overdoses, as well as cocaine, Methamphetamine and a Stun Gun. 38 year old Leo Moore of Norwich, was charged with 12 felonies and 4 misdemeanors following the execution of an arrest warrant, the most serious charge is Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance. Detectives allege that the arrest closed an extensive investigation into the distribution of methamphetamine, fentanyl, and cocaine throughout the community. Moore was arraigned in Norwich City Court and is currently held without bail pending further court proceedings.

Broome County Sheriff’s Office Strategic Response Group observed a motorcycle Wednesday Night operating in Binghamton with improper plates, a traffic stop was attempted & the operator failed to comply and led deputies on a pursuit throughout the City. Eventually, the operator, 28 year old Brian Harrison of Binghamton lost control and attempted to flee on foot, he was apprehended & was found to possess a loaded handgun, as well as a quantity of Methamphetamine. Harrison was charged with Criminal Possession of a Loaded Firearm, and other similar charges, plus Obstruction of Governmental Administration, Unlawful Fleeing a Police Officer & Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance, he faces court action shortly.

Governor Kathy Hochul announced that temporary lane closures for road and bridge construction projects on New York State highways will be suspended from 6:00 am. on Friday, August 29, to 6:00 am. on Tuesday, September 2, to ease travel throughout Labor Day weekend. Drivers should be aware some work may continue behind permanent concrete barriers or for emergency repairs. State Police and local law enforcement are participating in the national “Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over” enforcement campaign, through Monday, targeting impaired and reckless driving through increased patrols and check points.

A.M. NEWS THURSDAY 8-28-25

Otsego County, the Mohawk Valley Economic Development District and Vernonburg Group, will host a public community update meeting Today, from 6:00 PM to 7:30 PM at the Morris Fire Hall. The meeting will be held in person and live-streamed, with a recording available afterward at otsegocountyny.gov/broadband. This community session is part of Otsego County’s Broadband Technical Assistance Project aimed at improving high-speed internet access for residents, businesses, and institutions across the region.

Delaware County Sheriff's Office arrested 19 year old Johnny Mackinsdixon and 24 year old Bless King of Brooklyn, On April 27th, Colchester Police attempted a traffic stop, the vehicle fled the scene, but the operator was unable to maintain control of the vehicle, striking the curb, sidewalk and retaining wall of the bridge. Both the driver and passenger fled the accident scene on foot & were apprehended. The vehicle had been reported stolen out of Brooklyn NY on April 26, it had stolen Washington State License plates. Mackinsdixon was charged with Obstruction of Governmental Administration, Aggravated Unlicensed Operation of a motor vehicle and leaving the scene of a personal injury accident, speeding, as well as several other lesser charges, King was charged with Obstructing Governmental Administration. Both were turned over to the Delaware County Correctional Facility where they were remanded on $10,000 cash Bail.

The Otsego County Office of Emergency Services announced that they have sent personnel to assist in the fighting of the Catskills area wildfires in Ulster, Sullivan & Orange Counties. Otsego County deployed 5 Hand-crews, totaling 25 firefighters, to assist in Greenwood Lake, with fire fighters from Milford, Otego, Unadilla, & West Laurens Fire Departments, as well as Otsego County Emergency Services Deputy Fire Coordinator Jeremy Hilton. An extended appreciation is warranted to the Cherry Valley, Garrattsville, Gilbertsville, Morris, Mount Vision, Richfield Springs, West Exeter & Worcester Fire Departments for also offering additional personnel for deployment.

State Senator Peter Oberacker and Assemblyman Joe Angelino announced the signing of legislation renaming a bridge spanning the Chenango River, connecting the Town of Greene and the Town of Fenton in honor of decorated Vietnam veteran Herman Anders Jr. Specialist Anders was awarded the Bronze Star, the Purple Heart, and the National Defense Service Medal, while facing intense enemy fire, he put himself in harm's way and led his unit to safety, he continued to defend his fellow soldiers, engaging enemy forces until his last moments. Specialist Anders rests now in Sylvan Lawn Cemetery in Chenango County.

The Southern Tier Music Festival went over well this past weekend at the Sidney Airport, Teri Schunk was 1 of the organizers of the event:

(Teri Schunk 7-10-24)

Schunk also said that the Sidney Summer Music Series begins tonight with the Sidney Community band at 6:00 PM, due to the inclement weather, the concert will at the Sidney Community Center at 1 Bridge Street, the shows will all be free.

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.

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.

Delaware County Officials are aware of a complaint filed in the Northern District of New York by The Reporter. Officials can not make any comment at this time as the matter is in pending litigation, but officials deny all claims against the County as well as any individual named as a defendant in that matter, and will vigorously defend the action. The County was sued last week by the Reporter, as they claim that the action by the Board of Supervisors to remove The Reporter as the County's official paper for the publishing of legal notices, was in retaliation for coverage of county affairs by the Reporter's staff.

State Police will participate in a special traffic enforcement initiative to crack down on unsafe driving behaviors through Thanksgiving weekend. The special traffic enforcement period runs through Sunday, and will focus on impaired and distracted driving as well as speeding and the Move Over Law. Temporary lane closures for road and bridge construction projects on New York State highways will be suspended through 6:00 am on Monday, some work may continue behind permanent concrete barriers for emergency repairs.

State Police will participate in a special traffic enforcement initiative to crack down on unsafe driving behaviors through Thanksgiving weekend. The special traffic enforcement period runs from Wednesday through Sunday, and will focus on impaired and distracted driving as well as speeding and the Move Over Law. Temporary lane closures for road and bridge construction projects on New York State highways will be suspended through 6:00 am on Monday, some work may continue behind permanent concrete barriers for emergency repairs.

Governor Kathy Hochul announced that airports across the State will receive approximately $49 million for strategic infrastructure enhancements that will enhance safety, facilitate innovation, leverage existing resources, advance business development, and promote sustainability and resiliency. Locally, the Eaton Airport, in Norwich will receive $600,000 toward the acquisition of a new snow removal equipment vehicle and attachments & the Tri-Cities Airport, Broome County will get $1.2 million toward the replacement of the existing refueling facility and the installation of new fuel tanks as well as a new self-service credit card reader and tank monitoring system.

The Bainbridge & Afton Girl Scouts are holding their bi annual Community Giveaway Days November 3rd & 4th at the Greenlawn Elementary school in Bainbridge, spokesperson Jessica Chambers explains:

(Jessica Chambers 10-23-23)

More information is available by Email to jjchambers@frontiernet.net, or call 267-2378, the drop off of items will be Friday November 3rd from 3:30 to 6:30 PM and the giveaway will be Saturday November 4th from 9:00 AM to 12:00 Noon.

A.M. NEWS Monday 10-23-23

State Police were dispatched Friday Night to a fatal crash on State Route 13 in the town of Newfield. A preliminary investigation reveals that a 42 year old Patrick Robinson of Ithaca lost control of a motorcycle on wet roads, laying the bike down, A Passerby, 34 year old Mathew Poplawski of Schenectady stopped to assist Robinson when a vehicle stuck both men, both were pronounced deceased on scene. The operator of the vehicle was a 57-year-old man from Illinois is cooperating with State Police, Alcohol does not appear to be a factor. The investigation is on-going.

Sidney Fire Department was dispatched to a reported structure fire with possible entrapment at approximately 5:44 am Friday at 50 East Main Street, lot 19 in the village of Sidney. All residents were out, Sidney Fire units had the fire extinguished within 15 minutes, The fire was determined as accidental in nature, starting in a bedroom. Sidney was assisted by firefighters from Bainbridge, Unadilla, Wells Bridge, Sidney Center and Sidney Fire Department Auxiliary.

The trial of the Yaron Kweller and Jordan Rindgen on rape charges, will begin today in Broome County, both men were part owners of the Colonial restaurant in Binghamton & they are accused of sexually assaulting 2 women on November 27, 2021. Jury Selection in the case gets underway this morning.

P.M. NEWS THURSDAY 9-21-23

The Bainbridge Lions Club will conclude their annual fundraising raffle Saturday, when they give away a Zero Turn Lawn mower & other prizes & McDowell & Walker in Sidney, Lions spokesman Cliff Crouch told WCDO News that the money raised goes to a good cause:

(Cliff Crouch 9-21-23)

Crouch said that people can still buy the raffle tickets at McDowell & Walker, Johns Garage or through a Lions club Member, the winners will be announced Saturday at 12:00 Noon at McDowell & Walker.

On Wednesday, State Police Traffic Incident Management Unit issued a total of 25 tickets in Broome County during an “Operation Hard Hat” detail. Troopers monitored traffic on State Route 17 in the town of Sanford where road crews were doing bridge work. Of the 25 tickets issued, 9 were for speeding, 6 for seatbelt violations & the rest for a variety of offenses.

Delaware County Public Health will be holding a free Car Seat Safety Event at The Cullman Center in Sidney today from 3:30PM-5:30PM. Parents and caregivers can have their child’s car seat checked at no cost by certified child safety seat technicians. Car seats which do not meet the Federal Motor Safety Standard may be replaced. Be sure to bring your child/children to the event and expectant parents are welcome as well, more information is available at 607-832-5200.

P.M. NEWS THURSDAY 6-29-23

The Southern Tier Music Festival will be held Saturday at the Sidney Airport, featuring Country Stars Maddie & Tae and Restless Road, among 5 other locally known acts. organizers Ed Curley & Teri Schunk told WCDO about the start time & the parking situation for Saturday's event:

(Ed-Teri 6-29-23)

Tickets are available today & tomorrow at SFCU Branches in Sidney, Bainbridge & Norwich, at brownpapertickets.com or at the gate the day of the show. More information is available at southerntiermusicfest.com, or on their Facebook page.

Broome County Sheriff’s Deputies responded Friday to a report of a domestic incident in the Town of Barker. The victim reported that she had met 31 year old Ryan Storm of Endwell, 2 days prior on Snapchat. Storm began repeatedly calling her and sending threatening text messages, he then allegedly broke into her house to retrieve a personal possession & he threatened to rape her. Storm was charged with Burglary, Criminal Mischief & Harassment, he was arraigned, released & is due back in Town of Barker Court at a later date, an Order of Protection was issued on behalf of the victim.

Governor Hochul announced that temporary lane closures for road and bridge construction projects on State highways will be suspended from 6:00 AM Saturday, July 1 to 6:00 AM on Wednesday, July 5, to ease travel throughout the July 4th holiday weekend. Motorists should be aware that some work may continue behind permanent concrete barriers or for emergency repairs. AAA predicts record breaking traffic volumes over the holiday weekend, an increase of 2.4% over 2022.

Catholic Charities in Sidney is offering schools supplies & backpacks to local children in need, Spokesperson Penny McKnight explains:

(Penny McKnight 6-29-23)

More information is available by stopping at the Catholic Charities office in the Sidney Civic Center, or by calling 607-604-4071.

A.M. NEWS THURSDAY 6-29-23

The New York City Department of Environmental Protection announced a schedule change for planned work on the Delaware Aqueduct, with the project now scheduled to start in October of 2024. The project calls for shutting down a portion of the aqueduct in order to attach a bypass tunnel under the Hudson River, it was scheduled to begin in October of this year and last up to eight months. The shift in schedule was necessary to allow for additional pumps, as well as related drainage infrastructure and electrical support, to be installed to keep the construction zone dry and ensure worker safety during the repair of decades-old leaks.

P.M. NEWS THURSDAY 6-22-23

The Southern Tier Music Fest will be held on July 1st at the Sidney Airport, both levels of VIP tickets are sold out but General Admission tickets still available, according to organizer Ed Curley:

(Ed Curley 6-22-23)

The concert features a variety of activities on site as well as Country Music Headliners Maddie and Tae, along with Restless Road & 5 local bands at the all day event.

The City of Oneonta announced that R.B. Robinson Contracting, will begin construction for River Street and Ann Street Reconstruction and Water Main Replacement project starting today. Work includes replacement of the water mains, new services to curb boxes, stormwater improvements, and pavement replacement from Main Street to past the Oneonta Boys and Girls Club, all of Ann Street, and from Bridge Avenue to the end of River Street. Construction is expected to continue into the fall months, for more information, contact the Department of Public Works at 432-2100.

State tax receipts totaled $79.8 billion through the 3rd quarter of the State Fiscal Year 2022-23, exceeding the latest projections from the Division of the Budget’s (DOB) Mid-Year Update to the State Financial Plan by nearly $7.7 billion, according to State Comptroller Tom DiNapoli. Personal income tax receipts totaled $42.1 billion and were $8.1 billion above the latest financial plan projections through December 31st, but $6.9 billion lower than the same period in Fiscal Year 21-22. DiNapoli said that there were 2 fewer collection days from the prior year as well as higher refunds from the Pass-Through Entity Tax and property tax relief.

The Community Cultural center at 1 Bridge Street in Sidney, will be hosting a fundraising event on Saturday January 28th, with music & food, according to the Center's Board President Amy Williams:

(Amy Williams 1-19-23)

The Admission price will be $15, with proceed benefiting the Community Cultural Center's future programs.

The National Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum announced that items from the World Champions Houston Astros is being displayed currently. Artifacts donated by the Astros include a Jersey worn by World Series MVP Jeremy Peña, wristbands & toothpicks from Manager Dusty Baker, a Glove used by outfielder Chas McCormick, spikes from Pitchers Justin Verlander & Ryan Pressly, and a ball thrown by Cristian Javier from the Game 4 combined no-hitter and signed by all 4 Astros pitchers as well as catcher Christian Vázquez.

The Sidney Chamber of Commerce will hold their Jingle & Mingle Holiday After Hours event today from 5:00 to 7:00 PM. The event will be held at the Community Cultural Center at 1 Bridge Street in Sidney.

The Covered Bridge Farm Market Fall Festival will be held on Sunday in Unadilla, Organizer Luke Johnson explains:

(Luke Johnson 9-23-22)

Johnson said that last year's event drew about 2000 people to the festival on Covered Bridge Road in Unadilla.

The Otsego County Sheriff's Office arrested 50 year old Ashraf Moussa of Schuyler Lake on 9 counts of possession of a forged instrument. Moussa is accused of utilizing forged documents and licenses to buy and sell vehicles for profit. A search warrant was executed at the defendant's residence where numerous other forged documents were located and seized, he is being held in the Otsego County Correctional Facility pending Court action.

A.M. NEWS Friday 9-23-22

The Community Cultural Center in Sidney will host the 1st of a series of Comedy Nights this Saturday night, as well as a puppet show Sunday Afternoon, spokesperson Teri Schunk explains:

(Teri Schunk 9-21-22)

Tickets for both events can be located online at cccsidneyart.booktix.com, by calling 607-604-4584 or at the door before the show Saturday night.

The Jericho Arts Council announced an oldies flavored show Saturday night at the Bainbridge Town Hall Theater, Spokesman Phil Wade explains:

(Phil Wade 9-23-22)

Tickets are available at the door before the show, or can be reserved by phone at (607) 288-3882.

Today at 4:00 PM, the family of Bainbridge native Griffin Fisher, will hold a memorial at General Clinton Park. Fisher died recently at the age of 22 in Queens, friends & family are invited to attend.

The 40th Annual Algonquin Antique Auto Show & Flea Market will be held Sunday at General Clinton Park in Bainbridge, spokesman Ernest Thompson explains:

(Ernest Thompson 6-10-22)

The show is scheduled from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM with 3 trophies for vehicles each class, more information is available at 764-8134.

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

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

A.M. NEWS FRIDAY 6-10-22

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

(Teri Anna Friday)

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

P.M. NEWS WEDNESDAY 4-13-22

The Bainbridge Fire Department will be holding an Open House on April 23rd from 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM as part of the Statewide Recruitment effort for Volunteer Fire Departments & Emergency Squads. Roger Barnhart of the Bainbridge Fire Department comments:

(Roger Barnhart 4-13-22)

More information about what fire departments are participating on April 23rd can go to Recruitny.org, or go to their fire department's website.

The Chenango United Way & the Delaware Otsego United Way exceeded their campaign goals in the most recent fundraising cycle, Chenango United Way Executive Director Elizabeth Monaco is now in charge of the Delaware Otsego chapter as well, and she told WCDO News about changes that are coming to make their efforts more efficient:

(Elizabeth Monaco 4-13-22)

More information about the United Way local programs can be accessed by calling 607-373-0297 or at unitedwaydo.org.

Binghamton Police & First Responders rescued a woman who jumped into the Susquehanna River shortly after 12:00 Noon Tuesday. Officers tried to persuade the woman not to jump into the River, from the Washington Street Bridge, she did & was successfully pulled out by the Binghamton Fire department rescue boats. The unidentified woman was taken to Lourdes Hospital for treatment.

The Spring Concert series continues at the Community Cultural Center at 1 Bridge Street in Sidney Saturday Night at 8:00 PM with the Driftwood & special Guest Jason Wicks. Tickets are available at 607-604-4584.

The Habitat for Humanity of Otsego County is now accepting applications from Otsego County residents currently living in unsuitable or unaffordable housing, to work with them on obtaining a loan and are willing to help build homes for others through the program. For more information or to apply, click on habitatotsego.org/homeowner-application. The application deadline is May 31.

A.M. NEWS FRIDAY 4-1-22

Broome County District Attorney Mike Korchak announced that Jordan Rindgen, Yaron Kweller & Leor Kweller were arraigned in Broome County Court. Rindgen was charged with Criminal Sale of a controlled substance, Criminal Possession of a controlled substance, sexual abuse, criminal sexual act, Criminal facilitation & Unlawfully dealing with a child. Yaron Kweller was charged with 1st degree Rape & Criminal Sexual act, Leor Kweller was charged with 1st degree rape & Sexual Abuse. The charges stem for an incident near the Colonial Bar in Downtown Binghamton that the 3 men owned, on November 27th of 2021. All 3 pleaded not guilty to the Charges from the Indictment handed down in Broome County Court.

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

P.M. NEWS THURSDAY 3-31-22

The inaugural Chenango County Wine, Beer and Food Festival will be held Saturday, July 30 11:00 AM to 7:00 PM at the Chenango County Fairgrounds in Norwich. Commerce Chenango President & CEO Kerri Green explains:

(Kerri Green 3-31-22)

Organizers are currently seeking sponsors as well as vendors for the July 30th event, More information can be found on the festival website, chenangowbffest.com.

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

A.M. NEWS THURSDAY 3-31-22

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

The Unadilla Rotary Club announced the return of the annual Autumn Fest, which will be held at the Covered Bridge Farm Market on Sunday September 26th at 10:00 am until 4:00 PM.  Vendors can get more information at unadillarotary.org.

Delaware County Sheriff's Deputies arrested a Walton resident June 19th on Delaware Street in the Village of Walton.  Deputies observed a speeding vehicle traveling north on Delaware Street, they stopped the vehicle and identified the driver as 28-year old Kassondra  Pierce of Walton,  A routine DMV inquiry revealed that Pierce’s driving privileges and vehicle registration were suspended due to an insurance lapse.  Pierce was charged with unlicensed operation of a vehicle, speeding, operating an uninspected motor vehicle as well as other charges, her vehicle was towed from the scene & she was released to appear in the Village of Walton Court on a later date.

Delaware County Sheriff's Office announced that a “Click-it or Ticket” detail in the Town of Davenport on May 29th, with the Otsego County Sheriff’s Deputies, resulted in the arrest of 46 year old Stacey Juhl of Worcester. While conducting a seatbelt checkpoint, Deputies observed a vehicle attempting to avoid the checkpoint; they stopped the vehicle on Southside Drive & found that Juhl’s driving privileges had been suspended on 3 occasions for failure to answer summonses in Otsego County courts, as well as for an insurance lapse. Juhl was charged with aggravated unlicensed operation of a motor vehicle and having an obstructed drivers view, she was released and directed to appear in the Town of Davenport Court on a later date.

The Community Cultural Center of Sidney will have their official Ribbon Cutting ceremony this Saturday at 1:00 PM, at the corner of Bridge & Main Street. The 1st use of the building will be for an art exhibit, and then many other options will be available, according to Executive Director Pat Cristelli:

(Pat Cristelli 6-10-21)

Cristelli said that the Students Art Exhibit will be open from Monday June 14th to Friday the 18th, from 6:00 to 9:00 PM each evening, Saturday the 19th from 5:00 to 9:00 PM and Sunday June 20th from 1:00 to 4:00 PM.

A.M. NEWS THURSDAY 6-10-21

UPDATE IN MANHUNT:

Just after 4:30 p.m., Jason Johnson was taken into custody near a river bank off State Route 79 in Colesville.

EARLY AFTERNOON UPDATE:

Broome County Sheriff’s Deputies and State Police responded to East Windsor Road in Colesville to check on the welfare of an individual at 8:35 PM Wednesday night, . Law enforcement did exchange gunfire with Johnson, State Trooper Becky Seager was shot in the hip & was taken to Wilson Hospital with non-life threatening injuries. Multiple agencies are looking for 34 year old Jason Johnson this afternoon, he is described as a white male, 5’7 and 160 pounds with a Mohawk style haircut, he was last seen in the East Windsor Road area near Thorn Hill. He is considered armed and dangerous, It’s possible that Johnson may be operating a 1996 Ford F-250 pick-up truck, blue in color with the NY license plate HZV7759, Police said that the public should not approach him and should call 911 immediately.

P.M. NEWS MONDAY 5-10-21

Otsego County Sheriff's Deputies arrested 46-year-old Joseph Amato of Treadwell on I-88 in Oneonta for DWI.  Amato refused to take a sobriety test and locked himself in his vehicle; he was eventually removed from the vehicle and placed under arrest.   Amato was found to be in possession of an illegal weapon, he was also charged with obstruction of governmental administration and criminal possession of a weapon as well as several traffic violations & faces court action at a later date.

Sidney Fire Department responded Saturday afternoon at about 4:30 PM, to a fire reported at the Gravel residence at 25 Pearl Street.  The fire started in the basement & was knocked down quickly.  Franklin, Unadilla & Wells Bridge Fire Departments responded, smoke damage was reported.

Chenango Arts Council 2021 Student Art Show will be featured in the Mariea Brown and Raymond Loft Galleries at 27 West Main Street in Downtown Norwich, as well as virtually on their social media pages and website starting tomorrow.  The exhibit will feature 3D art, drawings, and paintings from Chenango County High School Students.  1st place, 2nd and Honorable Mention will be awarded in these categories with the winners announced at the close of the show on Friday, April 30th; more information is available at 336-2787 or by emailing info@chenangoarts.org.

A.M. NEWS MONDAY 4-12-21

The State Health department reported 189,820 vaccine Doses were administered Saturday.  The state  reports Nearly 1.5 Million Doses Administered Over Past 7 Days, Nearly 1 in 4 New Yorkers Are Now Fully Vaccinated, the Vaccine Dashboard Will Update Daily to Provide Updates on the State's Vaccine Program; Go to ny.gov/vaccinetracker

State DOT Officials reported that a bridge replacement project starts today on State Route 10 in Walton over Pines Brook.  Alternating lane closures will be monitored by temporary signals, the project is expected to be completed in May.

Governor Cuomo signed legislation designating a bridge on State Highway 206 in Downsville as the "Colchester Veterans Memorial Bridge." The legislation was requested by the Town of Colchester to recognize fallen veterans, The Governor signed the legislation on Veterans Day, the designation becomes effective immediately.

Governor Cuomo announced that Effective Friday, bars, restaurants and gyms or fitness centers, as well as any State Liquor Authority-licensed establishment, will be required to close from 10:00 PM to 5:00 AM daily. Restaurants will still be allowed to provide curbside, food-only pick-up or delivery after 10 pm., they can not serve alcohol to go. Indoor and outdoor gatherings at private residences will be limited to no more than 10 people, following the recent prevalence of COVID spread from recent Halloween parties.

State Police announced that 44 year old Gregory Gale Jr. of Endwell has been located in good health, & is back with family. Gale is an autistic adult who had failed to return home from a walk to a local store in Endwell Sunday Morning

The Sidney Cultural Community Center will have its inaugural event on Saturday November 21st with a holiday bazaar, Sidney Chamber of Commerce President Teri Schunk explains:

(Teri Schunk 11-21-20)

The Sidney Cultural Community Center is located in the former 1st Congregational church at the corner of Bridge & Main Streets in Sidney.

State Police need the public’s assistance in locating a missing vulnerable adult. 44 year old Gregory Gale Jr. left his home in Endwell Sunday at approximately 10:45 a.m. He regularly walks to the Speedway on East Main Street and was there around 11 a.m. Sunday but has not returned home. Gale is a 44-year-old autistic male, with a mental development of a 5-year-old. He moved to the area only a few months ago from Staten Island and does not know the area well. Gale is a light skinned black male, with brown eyes, a mustache and a goatee. He has black hair which is in a short afro style. Gale is approximately 6 feet tall and weighs approximately 260 to 270 pounds. He was last seen wearing a green camo jacket, light blue jeans and black sneakers. Anyone who sees Gale, should call the State Police at Endwell at 754-2701 or at Binghamton at 775-1241.

Several
Fire companies as well as police agencies are on the scene of a structure fire
at 288 Ketchum Hill Road in Port Crane.  The
fire started earlier this afternoon, the home was recently purchased & was
going through renovations, it was not occupied at the time the fire broke
out.  WCDO News will have more details as
they become available.

The
Unadilla Chamber Of Commerce announced their award winners for 2020.  The Business of the Year will be awarded to
Covered Bridge Farm Market, The Good Neighbor Commitment to Community award
goes to Erin Insinga of Unadilla, who is the Director of the Delaware Valley
Humane Society, she commented about the recognition:

(Erin
Insinga 3-12-20)

The
Unadilla Chamber Annual dinner will be held on April 19th at 5:00 PM at the 1st
United Methodist Church in Unadilla.

State
officials are looking to add more census takers this year for the 2020 census
count.  States receive federal funding
based on the results of the census every 10 years,  related to health care, education, housing,
economic development and transportation, as well as congressional
representation in Washington. Those interested in a census job can get more
information at 2020 census.gov.

Governor
Cuomo announced that New York State will contract with 28 private labs to
increase testing capacity for the coronavirus; the labs will begin testing as
soon as they are ready. The Governor also announced the State University of New
York and the City University of New York will implement plans to maximize
distance learning and reduce in-person classes, beginning March 19th, for the
remainder of the spring semester.
Distance learning and other options will be developed by campuses.    43 additional cases of the coronavirus were
confirmed, bringing the statewide total to 216, only 3 cases are north of
Rockland County.

During a briefing on the novel
coronavirus earlier today, Governor Cuomo confirmed 11 additional cases of
novel coronavirus, bringing the total to 22 confirmed cases in New York State.
Of the 22 individuals who tested positive for the virus, one resides in Nassau
County, three reside in New York City and 18 reside in Westchester County. In
response to the growing number of cases, the Governor activated the statewide
Emergency Operation Center in Albany, as well as two Emergency Operations
Center outposts in Westchester County: one in Hawthorne and one in New
Rochelle.

A group of State Senate &
Assembly Minority Republicans are looking to get an increase in local Highway
funding in the CHIPS program, which has not been increased in 7 years.  Governor Cuomo has forwarded a $275 Billion
Dollar Infrastructure program in his latest Budget proposal for highway &
bridge projects.

The Unatego Board of Education received 3 proposals after
their recent Request for Proposals to repurpose the former Otego Elementary
School building, Unatego Superintendent Dr. Dave Richards’s comments:

(Dave Richards 10-10-19)

The 3 proposals are from Dirig Design, a drafting and design
firm located in Wells Bridge, Granite Data Solutions of California which is an
IT service provider & the Oneonta Christian Academy, who wish to move their
private school from Oneonta to Otego.  More
information is available at unatego.org.

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers released the new East
Sidney Lake Master Plan to serve as a guiding document for decision making at
the lake for the next 15 to 25 years.
The Plan includes land use classifications that govern the way land is
managed and used as well as outdoor recreation to meet the needs of the
public.    The final Master Plan, previous
master plans and additional information can be found on the project website
nab.usace.army.

The Chenango County Department of Public Works will close a bridge on Bentley Road between State Route 23 and Lum Cross Road, in the Town of Pitcher, Monday for the replacement of the bridge deck.  There shall be NO ON-SITE DETOUR, The traveling public shall be asked to seek alternative routes.   Questions and concerns can be directed to 337-1710.

Former Norwich Assistant Superintendent of Public Works,
George Carnrike Jr., of Norwich faces 21 charges following an investigation
into alleged illegal dumping of waste and chemicals while working for the City
of Norwich and falsifying documents to cover up the dumping. Carnrike resigned
last September, he is charged with unlawful dealing with hazardous wastes,
offering a false instrument for filing, unlawful delivery of regulated waste,
failure to properly contain regulated waste during transport as well as many
related charges.