WCDO Radio News

Norwich Theater Company will present the The Wizard of Oz! with performances Tonight & Saturday Night at 7:00 pm, with a matinee Sunday, at 2:00 pm. Tickets are available from Norwich Theater Company by calling 607-244-3852 or visiting norwichtheatercompany.org, or at the Box Office at the Martin W. Kappel Theater, 27 West Main Street, Norwich.

A Stevie Nicks/ Fleetwood Mac Tribute band “Gold Dust Woman” will appear at the Foothills Performing Arts Center in Oneonta tonight, spokesman Geoff Doyle said that this tribute band is as close as it gets to the real thing:

(Geoff Doyle 7-28-23)

Tickets are available at foothillspac.org or at the box office on Market Street in Oneonta during normal business hours.

An American Red Cross Blood drive will be held today in Cooperstown, from 12:30 pm. - 6:30 pm., at the Cooperstown Fire Department, 24 Chestnut Street. To make an appointment, simply download the American Red Cross Blood Donor App, visit RedCrossBlood.org, call 1-800-RED CROSS

Delaware County Public Health announced that a raccoon tested positive for rabies in the town of Delhi. This is the first animal in Delaware County to test positive for rabies in 2023, 1 dog was bitten by a the rabid raccoon, there were no human exposures. According to the owner of the exposed dog, the raccoon was not acting sick or appeared to be rabid. Vaccination records of the dog indicated the animal was not up to date on its rabies vaccinations & will have a 6-month quarantine following State Department of Health guidelines. Public Health recommends that pet owners take advantage of any of the free remaining rabies clinics in Delaware County, in Sidney on May 8th from 5:30PM to 7:30PM at the Sidney Fire Hall: 74 River Street, or in Hancock on May 22nd from 5:30 to 7:30PM at the Hancock Town Hall, at 661 West Main Street.

19th District Congressman Marc Molinaro announced his schedule for visits around the district. Today, Congressman Molinaro visits the Otsego- Northern Catskills BOCES at 12:15, & Fox Hospital in Oneonta at 1:30pm & the Oneonta Town Council at 3:15pm on Monday the Congressman will visit SUNY Binghamton at 2:30pm.

Les Gregory of Sidney will turn 100 years old on Sunday, there will be Celebration for Gregory on Saturday at the Sidney Fire Station, Mr. Gregory told WCDO News of how he made it to 100 yeas of age & how he is humbled by all the attention he has received:

(Les Gregory 3-31-23)

Area resident Larry Halbert has known Les Gregory since he was a boy & he told WCDO News about Mr. Gregory:

(Larry Halbert 3-31-23)

Halbert said that Gregory served in the Army Air Core, which turned into the Air force, over 28 years, he operated his own insurance business, volunteered in the Sidney & other Fire Departments for over 70 years, he created the Delaware County Arson Task Force and is a long time Sidney Rotary member. Halbert said that every Sidney household will get a copy of the Walton Reporter this week, which spotlights Les Gregory's life. WCDO will air the full interview with Les Gregory following the 6:00 PM News tonight, and again tomorrow immediately following the WCDO Birthday Club at 9:30 AM.

State Police arrested 51-year-old Lauren Brooks, of West Edmeston, following an investigation and subsequent indictment by the Steuben County Grand Jury, for contact he had with a minor child. The incidents of contact occurred while Brooks resided in the town of Corning from 2012-2016, he was arraigned for Course of Sexual Conduct Against a Child, Endangering the Welfare of a Child, and 298 counts of Criminal Sexual Act, 90 counts of 2nd degree Rape and 28 counts of 3rd degree Rape. Brooks was remanded to the Steuben County Jail in lieu of $10,000 cash bail $20,000 property bond. The investigation is continuing, and anyone who may have been a victim of Brooks and has not come forward, can contact the State Police at 607-962-3282.

The Bandera Family & Community Alliance announced Free Christmas Dinners again this year for Binghamton & Norwich residents, and this year they are adding a free Christmas Dinner for the Oneonta Community, Bill Bandera told WCDO News about their plans this Christmas:

(Bill Bandera 12-6-22)

Bandera the meals will be served at the American Legion Halls in each community, in Norwich from 12:00 to 2:00 PM & in oneonta from 12:00 Noon until 3:00 PM, More information can be found at banderachristmas.

Gene Schmidt & his family announced that they will again host a free Christmas Dinner on Christmas Day at the Sidney Fire Station on River Street:

(Gene Schmidt 12-14-22)

Schmidt said that this is the 10th year that he & his family have hosted this event, with the contributions from many area businesses & organizations.

P.M. NEWS TUESDAY 9-27-22

Otsego County Sheriff's Office arrested 35 year old Brandon Hill of Oneonta after patrols responded to the report of a fight in progress on September 12th, at 954 State Highway 205 in the Town of Oneonta. Hill was charged with Resisting Arrest, Criminal Mischief & Disorderly Conduct, he was processed and was released on an appearance ticket, Deputies also arrested 34 year old Michelle Mead of Oneonta following the investigation into the fight & trespassing complaint, she was charged with Resisting Arrest & Obstruct Governmental Administration. Hill & Mead will appear in Town of Oneonta Court to answer to the charges on October 6th.

Catholic Charities of Sidney and other local organizations will hold another Community Partnership Mass Food Distribution this Friday morning at the Sidney Fire Station on River Street. Catholic Charities spokesperson Penny McKnight told WCDO News that they need volunteers to assist on that day:

(Penny McKnight 9-27-22)

McKnight reminds those wishing to attend to not arrive before 11:00 AM, and to stay in their vehicles in order to have an efficient distribution.

A.M. NEWS TUESDAY 9-27-22

The National Weather Service investigators revealed that a tornado moved through the Walton area on Sunday September 25th. The tornado moved through between 6:38 and 6:41 pm. Tornado damage was located along Walton Mountain Road where trees fell in a convergent pattern, damage was also reported on Route 10 to an auto repair shop and the west branch of the Delaware River along South River Road. The Weather Service measured the tornado’s winds at EF0 to EF1.

The American Red Cross has scheduled blood donation opportunities today. One drive will be held in West Oneonta from 11:30 am. - 4:30 pm., at the The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, 107 Balmoral Drive, another will be held at the DCMO BOCES on State Route 206 in Trout Creek, from 8:30 am. - 2:30 pm., Appointments can be made by using the Red Cross Blood Donor App, visiting RedCrossBlood.org or by calling 1-800-RED CROSS

State Police responded on September 24th to the Oneonta Walmart after a report that a Samsung cell phone and wallet containing cash and cards were stolen. Both items were accidentally left in the women’s restroom, when the owner realized that they left the items behind, they returned to the restroom and could not find them. The cell phone and the wallet were later located inside the Grand Union in the town of Hartwick, the cash was not located. Anyone with information is asked to contact State Police at 561-7400, pictures of the suspects & their vehicle can be found at the Troop C Facebook Page.

Catholic Charities announced another Community Mass Food Distribution, will be held tomorrow in Sidney, spokesperson Penny McKnight comments:

(Penny McKnight 7-18-22)

The Mass Food Distribution will be held at the Sidney Fire Station on River Street starting at 11:00 AM.

The National Weather Service has confirmed that a tornado touched down in Ulster County on Wednesday, July 13, shortly before 9:00PM. Investigators determined that the EF-1 tornado with 90 mile per hour winds touched down 2 miles west of Kingston, near State Route 29, it then moved southeast to just west of the NY State Thruway where it uprooted and snapped trees, displaced a car canopy. Many homes were damaged by fallen trees, thousands lost power from the storm.

The Bainbridge Chamber of Commerce will hold their next meeting tomorrow Morning. 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 7-18-22

State Police reported that Route 7 in Oneonta has been reopened, following an incident Sunday. Police said that no injuries were sustained, More details will be released Today as the investigation is still on-going. State Police were on scene for 23 hours at State Route 7 near Emmons Hill Road.

The Sidney Chamber of Commerce has a few tickets remaining for their annual Dinner on June 2nd At the River Street Fire Station. Chamber President Teri Schunk explains:

(Teri Schunk 5-20-22)

This year, the Chamber fill honor Gavin's Pizzeria as the Business of the Year, The Sidney Central School District Alumni Association as the organization of the year, & Schunk herself was voted as Citizen Of The Year.

The American Red Cross Continues to hold local blood drives, the next one is in West Oneonta today from 1:00 to 6:00 PM at the West Neonatal Fire Department. Appointments can be made with the Red Cross Blood Donor App, visit RedCrossBlood.org or call 1-800-RED CROSS.

SUNY Oneonta faculty and staff will join Graduating Seniors Commencement exercise Saturday. Class of 2022. More information is available at oneontabulletin.wordpress.com,

Construction of a new SUNY Oneonta sign on the corner of Ravine Parkway and West Street will soon be underway. The groundbreaking for this project is scheduled for Monday, May 23 and we anticipate that the project will take approximately five months to complete. All construction will take place between 7:30 am. and 4:00 pm. Monday through Friday.

Delaware County Public Health will host a rabies vaccination clinic for Dogs, Cats & Ferrets today in Sidney. The Clinic will be held from 6:30 to 8:30 PM at the River Street Fire Station, More information is available at 832-5200 or delawarecountypublichealth.com

The Otsego County Health Department will hold a free Rabies vaccination clinic today at the Large Pavilion in Neahwa Park in Oneonta. The clinic will run from 6:00 to 8:00 PM, more information is available at 547-4230.

36 Year Old Jonas Whaley of the Town of German pleaded guilty to possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine and possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug-trafficking crime in US District Court in Syracuse. Whaley was arrested in September of 2021 & As part of his guilty plea, he admitted to possessing 50 grams of an illicit substance containing methamphetamine, plus handguns to protect himself while distributing drugs. Whaley faces sentencing on August 23rd.

Otsego County District Attorney's office announced the conviction of Bradley Cook of Oneonta for 2 counts of 1st degree criminal sexual act, for performing sexual acts with a minor under the age of 11 on 2 occasions. Cook will be sentenced June 24th.

Hartwick College is sponsoring the "Hawks Town Fever" street fair in Oneonta this Saturday, from 1:00 to 5:00 PM On Main Street between Chestnut Street and Ford Avenue. The event will include carnival games, zip lines, live music, food trucks, The event is free and open to the public.

A.M. NEWS TUESDAY 4-26-22

Fire investigators continue to search for a cause to an early Sunday Morning Fire on West Street in Oneonta. Firefighters were called to 452 West Street at about 1:00 AM Sunday to find the home fully engulfed, Fire Fighters from West Oneonta, Otego, Laurens, West Laurens, Mt. Vision, Worcester, Schenevus, Franklin and Pindars Corners fire departments assisted at the scene, no one was home when the fire broke out & no injuries were reported.

The State DMV is reminding Motorcycle owners that all motorcycle registrations expire on April 30th and must be renewed by then. Motorcycles also must be inspected once a year at a licensed station. More information on how to renew a motorcycle registration can be found by visiting dmv.ny.gov.

P.M. NEWS TUESDAY 2-15-22

Oneonta Mayor Mark Drnek announced that the Common Council meeting tonight will be back in the Chambers at Oneonta City Hall. Mayor Drnek will be delivering his first State of the City Address, masks will be required at tonight's meeting, which will also be broadcast at 7:00 PM on YouTube.com/cityofoneonta

State Comptroller Tom DiNapoli announced the results of an audit of the Otsego County Industrial Development Agency regarding the Oneonta Rail Yards Acquisition. The audit stated that the agency did not adequately plan for the 2017 acquisition of the rail yards, which was acquired based on a $6 million to $20 million development plan, but without an interested developer. Auditors found no indication that the board of directors had significant discussions of the pros and cons of developing the property, they then learned that a large-scale timber operation would be the only type of local industry that could profitable at the Rail Yards property.

The Chenango Arts Council’s annual Chenango Student Art Show will take place from March 4th to March 31st, the exhibit will open with a reception and awards ceremony on Friday March 4 beginning at 5:30 pm. In addition to a number of awards for different categories, 2 scholarships will be awarded for Chenango County seniors intending to pursue a degree in the Arts. The exhibit will be displayed in the Mariea Brown and Raymond Loft Galleries, located at the Chenango Arts Council, 27 West Main Street, Norwich and on the Arts Council’s social media. More information is available at 607-336-2787.

A.M. NEWS TUESDAY 2-15-22

The Otsego County Office of Emergency Services were requested to respond to a reported structure fire at 22 Maple Street in the Village of Gilbertsville Monday morning at about 9:15 AM. Firefighters from Gilbertsville, Morris, Mount Upton, Otego, Sidney, Wells Bridge and Otsego County EMS, all responded to the scene, 64 year old Louise Dubben was located deceased inside her residence. The Otsego County Office of Emergency Services, New York State Office of Fire Prevention and Control and the New York State Police are leading investigation efforts. An investigation into the fire is ongoing.

The City of Oneonta Police Department has arrested 29 year old Elijah Vergari of Oneonta in connection with the NBT bank robbery that occurred at 1 Wall Street in the City of Oneonta on December 29th. An indictment was handed down by a Grand Jury for the arrest of Vergari, Vergari was delivered to the Otsego County Court Monday, he was arraigned for 3rd degree Robbery, Due to the existence of pending felony charges in Delaware County, bail was set for $10,000 cash bail and he was remanded to the custody of the Otsego County Sheriff. The Oneonta Police Department worked in conjunction with the New York State Police Forensic ID unit, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security Investigations, and NBT bank security services.

An Oneonta man died in a two-car crash on Route 365 in Westmoreland late Sunday night. The Oneida County Sheriff's Office stated that 20-year-old Joshua Parker of Utica, was driving westbound on Route 365 when he started to have car trouble and put his flashers on while trying to make it to a gas station, Parker's vehicle was hit from behind by 40-year-old Lance Johnson of Oneonta, who was transporting medical test samples to a lab. Johnson was pronounced dead at the scene. Parker was taken to St. Elizabeth Medical Center to be treated for injuries that are not considered to be life-threatening. The investigation is ongoing.

P.M. NEWS MONDAY 5-17-21

Chenango County Sheriff's Deputies were dispatched Sunday morning to the Mirabito Gas Station in the Village of Greene where they located 31 year old Phillip Cosilmon of Smithville slumped over his steering wheel, with drugs & drug paraphernalia in plain view. Cosilmon was taken into custody and the Sheriff's Office Narcotics Division conducted a search of the vehicle and seized 2 pounds of Methamphetamine, Cocaine, Heroin, & other narcotics plus over $22,000 in cash, the narcotics seized had a street value exceeding $100,000.   Cosilmon was charged with Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance, he was arraigned in the Town of Norwich Court & was remanded to the Chenango County Correctional Facility without bail, pending action in Chenango County Court on May 17th. The investigation is still ongoing, and more charges are likely.

The Chenango County Health Department is hosting a Free Johnson & Johnson 1 shot Vaccine Clinic in West Park in Norwich Wednesday from 1:00 to 2:30 pm.  No appointment is needed; the Clinic is first come first serve, with 40 doses available. More information is available at 337-1660.

The Unatego Central School district will be asking for voter approval tomorrow on a $27.8 million dollar building project, Unatego Superintendent Dr. Dave Richards explains:

(Dr. Dave Richards 5-17-21)

Dr. Richards said that the project would be paid for with 87.5% state aid plus a capital reserve fund, resulting in no tax increase to district taxpayers.  Voting on the project & The Unatego Budget, and all state school budgets, will be tomorrow.

A.M. NEWS MONDAY 5-17-21

This Week is National EMS week, local state Senator Peter Oberacker said that volunteers are needed across the state at fire departments & emergency squads:

(Senator Oberacker 5-17-21)

Senator Oberacker is looking to submit legislation to make it easier to someone looking to volunteers for their local emergency squad, Senator Oberacker still volunteers with the Schenevus Emergency Squad.

The public is invited to shop for gently-used items donated by SUNY Oneonta students following the campus' annual Move-Out Donation and Reuse collection, tomorrow at 9:00 AM at the ReUse Center, 23 Duane Street, Oneonta.  The college had designated collection spaces in each of the 10 active residence halls to collect the items students no longer wanted, Off-campus students donated directly to the ReUse Center Proper mask use and social distancing will be enforced at the event. More information about the Move-Out Program and other campus sustainability initiatives is available suny.oneonta.edu/sustainability/move-out.

The Statewide Positivity Rate for Saturday's COVID tests was down to 1%, the lowest since October 10th of last year, with the 7 day rolling average declining for more than 40 days.   Patient Hospitalizations Drop to 1,583, ICU Patients Drop to 392, Intubations Drop to 225 & there were 33 COVID-19 Deaths in New York State Saturday.

Sidney Village Crews will be turning the water off this afternoon along West Main Street from Sunset to Pearl Street.  The water will be shut off at around 2:30 PM for a couple of hours, as work is conducted on the water main near the Sidney High School.

A.M. NEWS FRIDAY 5-14-21

About 1,300 members of SUNY Oneonta’s graduating class will be recognized tomorrow during 2021 commencement exercises that include virtual and in-person components, including an opportunity to cross the stage and hear their name called.  The virtual ceremony is a full commencement program that will air Saturday, with 4 ceremonies based on academic major: School of Economics and Business at 9 a.m.; School of Education, Human Ecology, and Sports Studies at 11 a.m.; School of Liberal Arts at 1 p.m.; and School of Sciences at 3 p.m.

Sidney Rotary Pancake Breakfast will be held tomorrow from 7:00 am to 12:00 pm, at the River Street Fire Station in Sidney.  Indoor & Outdoor seating is available, drive through options are also available.

P.M. NEWS TUESDAY 3-30-21

The City of Oneonta Common Council will hold a special Zoom meeting Thursday evening, to discuss & possibly vote on their Police reform & Reinvention plan.  The Plan is posted on the City’s website.

Norwich Police & State Police are seeking the public’s help in locating a sexual assault suspect.  On March 23rd, an individual was attacked at around 2:30 PM while walking along the railroad tracks downtown.  The attacker forced the victim into the brush & attempted to remove clothing, when the victim managed to break free & ran for help.  The suspect is described as a white male, in his mid-20 with dirty blond hair, wearing a gray colored tank top & holding either a red belt or handkerchief, anyone with information is asked to contact Norwich police at 336-TIPS.

Otsego County Health department reported 18 new Positive COVID 19 tests results, giving them over 3800 total cases & 55 deaths since the pandemic began.  Chenango County today reported 120 active cases with 414 quarantined, they have had over 2700 cases so far.  In Delaware County, there are 132 active cases, 354 in quarantine and 1888 total cases with 45 deaths.

A Rochester woman becomes the latest person to accuse governor Cuomo with inappropriate advances.  Sherry Vill said that the governor kissed her several times, while he was examining her home for flooding in 2017.  Lawmakers from both parties are calling for the governor to resign following several accusations of sexually harassing behavior.

23 year old George Wang of Kansas pleaded not guilty to attempted murder in Otsego County Court.  Wang is accused of driving off of state route 28 in the town of Hartwick in front of the Tops Market & Striking a pedestrian last November, he then sped off.  Wand was charged with operating a motor vehicle while impaired by drugs & alcohol he is free after posting $300,000 bond, he is due back in court may 24th.

Trout Season begins in New York State tomorrow.  The State DEC is stocking 1.8 million trout in waters across the state.

The Sidney Elks Lodge will hold their annual Easter Egg Hunt on Saturday April 3rd at 11:30 AM.  The hunt will be held outside & Masks are required, the Easter Bunny will be available for pictures.

The Murder Trial of Dylan Robinson of Oneonta will begin in Otsego County Court on April 14th Robinson is accused of murdering his father, along with several others, and then setting the house on fire  in October of 2019 in Worcester.

A.M. NEWS TUESDAY 3-30-21

The Sidney Police Department is partnering with the Delaware County Sheriff's Office and Chenango Health Network for a medication take back day. Anyone with any unused, outdated or unwanted medication can safely dispose of it at the date, time and place listed below. Note: no sharps or needles will be accepted.  The event will be held at the River Street Fire Station from 2:00 to 7:00 PM today.

Delaware County Sheriff's Deputies announced that a traffic violation on West Main Street in the Village of Hancock Wednesday evening resulted in the arrest of New Jersey woman.   Deputies observed a vehicle being operated without headlights. Deputies stopped the vehicle and identified the driver as 28 year-old Lilly Cosme of Mount Holly, New Jersey; a routine driver’s license inquiry revealed that Cosme’s driving privileges were suspended in 2016.  Cosme was arrested for aggravated unlicensed operation and operating an unregistered motor vehicle. Cosme’s vehicle was towed from the highway and she was released after being directed to appear in the Village of Hancock Court on a later date.

Chenango County Health Department announced that they will have 3 Drive-through rabies clinics this year.  The next one will be in Bainbridge at General Clinton Park on October 10th from 9:00 to 11:00, one is also scheduled at the Sherburne Earlville High School bus garage on October 31st from 9:00 to 11:00 and another will be held at the South New Berlin Fire Station on December 5th from 9:00 to 11:00, Pre-Registration is Required at health.ny.gov/go2clinic/9 or by calling 337-1673.

The Greater Oneonta Historical Society's 14th annual benefit auction will be 2 virtual auctions this year, they have contracted with 32Auctions, and the 1st auction has about a dozen items. The auction will open on Friday September 25 at 10:00 AM, and will close on Sunday September 27 at 9:00 PM, Society Executive Director Bob Brzozowski told WCDO news of some of the items offered this weekend:

(Bob Brzozowski 9-22-20)

The link for the preliminary auction is 32auctions.com/GOHSMiniAuction; a 2nd bigger auction is scheduled online November 15 to November 21. More information is available at 432-0960 or by email:  info@OneontaHistory.org. The History Center at 183 Main Street in Oneonta will be open during the auction on Friday from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM and Saturday from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM, and can assist visitors with online auction questions.

A.M. NEWS TUESDAY 9-22-20

The Otsego County Department of Health, Bassett Medical Center & the State Department of Health have partnered to provide a rapid testing to Otsego County residents Today & Wednesday from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM at the Foothills Performing Arts Center on Market Street in Oneonta, pre-registration is required at 547-4279.

Otsego County Department of Health reported 3 new COVID 19 cases over the past 2 days & 1 death has also been reported.  The 3 new cases gives Otsego County 869 total confirmed cases, there are 19 active cases, 1 hospitalization, 7 deaths, 694 confirmed cases are linked to SUNY Oneonta & 16 confirmed cases in Hartwick College students.

Chenango Arts Council announced that their Mariea Brown and Raymond Loft Galleries will reopen to the public on Today, with the Photography exhibit "Water- Different Forms”;  Chenango Arts Council Director Alecia O'Neill explains:

(Alecia O'Neill 9-22-20)

O'Neill said that the public can visit the show until October 2, Masks and social distancing will be required, at the Gallery at the Arts Council at 27 West Main Street, Norwich.  More information is available at ChenangoArts.org as well as on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram or by calling 336-2787.

All area school districts passed their budgets yesterday.  Capital projects were passed in Afton, Charlotte Valley, Delaware Academy, Oneonta & Greene.  Bus & vehicles propositions passed in Franklin, Deposit, Delaware Academy, Afton, Bainbridge Guilford, Norwich, Unadilla Valley, Oxford, Edmeston, Laurens, Oneonta,  Library budgets were passed in Sidney, Deposit, Norwich, Oxford & a Capital reserve fund vote was passed in Sidney.

Governor Cuomo announced today that the number of Hospitalizations & Deaths from the Coronavirus were at their lowest levels since the pandemic first hit New York in March:

(Cuomo 6-17-20)

Governor Cuomo said that the state should still exercise caution as 22 states are still reaching their highest levels of positive tests for the virus, & many of those started an aggressive re-opening in spite of the increasing amo0unt of cases,  people from any of those states could easily travel to New York & start a 2nd wave.

The American Red Cross is holding a blood drive in Walton today, from 9:00 AM to 2:00 PM at the Walton Fire Department, 59 West Street.  Appointments can be made by downloading the free Blood Donor App, visiting RedCrossBlood.org, calling 1-800-RED CROSS.

The Morris fire department was dispatched to the Brian
Madden residence at 287 West Hill Road home at just Monday afternoon.   Mutual aid was provided by from
Gilbertsville, West Laurens, Laurens, Mt. Vision, South New Berlin, New Berlin,
Pittsfield, and Mt. Upton, no injuries were reported, Madden escaped without
injury.

Firefighters responded Monday
afternoon to a fire at 959 County Highway 10 in Laurens.  The fire at the Decker residence was
attributed to a clogged chimney, the Deckers & their dog escaped without
injury, friends & relatives have started a go fund me page to assist the
family.

Governor Cuomo announced a proposal for eliminating the
"Pink Tax" on products aimed specifically for women.  A study in 2015 that analyzed prices of toys,
clothing, personal care products and home health products that were substantially
similar and found that 42% of the time, products targeted towards women are
more expensive than men's.   Women’s
merchandise costs 7% on average more than similar items for men, with personal
care products for women found to be priced 13% higher than men's products.

State Police arrested 38 year old Andrew Van Dusen of
Gilbertsville for allegedly stealing packages off porches in Oneonta’s West
End. Van Dusen was charged with 2 counts of Burglary, criminal mischief &
numerous counts of petty Larceny, he was arraigned & was released on his
own recognizance, he is scheduled appear in the town of Oneonta court on Jan.
2, 2019.

The Annual free Christmas dinner put on by Gene Schmidt
& his family will be held tomorrow Christmas Day in Sidney.  The dinner will be held at the River Street
Fire Station from 1:00 to 4:00 & it is free to the public.

4 people accused of participating in the murder of 53 year
old Kenneth Robinson of Worcester in October, were arraigned in Otsego County
Court.  15-year-old Anais Soto of Oneonta
was granted a reduction in bail to $2500; she was released & was ordered to
wear an ankle monitor.  Dylan Robinson,
Alexander Borgreen & Nicolas Meridy were arraigned for 2nd degree Murder,
1st degree Burglary, and Attempted Robbery, Meridy is still being held without
bail; Robinson and Borgreen’s are being held on $25,000 cash Bail or $50,000
Bond.

Sidney Center will have their annual "Holiday In The
Hamlet" celebration Saturday starting at 5:15 with Santa Claus, the event
will be held at the Sidney Center Fire station.

The Chenango County Health Department will hold their last
Rabies vaccination clinic tomorrow in Norwich.
The clinic for dogs, cats & ferrets will be held from 9:30 to 11:00
AM at the Norwich Fire Station, More information is available at 337-1673.

Krystal Lee "The Country Sweetheart" has launched
a campaign to collect toy donations to benefit the Salvation Army’s Angel Tree
program. 2 shows will be held to collect toy donations, the 1st at J&D’s
Wagon Wheel tonight from 9:00 to 11:00 PM, the 2nd on Saturday at 4:00 PM at
the Oneonta Holiday Parade, where Krystal will perform on Santa’s float. Drop
Boxes for toys will be located at the Eighth Note Music Store, Transitions
Boutique and the Amish Barn Company in Oneonta.

Destination Oneonta will hold
their 3rd Annual Day of Holiday Fun Saturday & Sunday.  Saturday celebrations include the Home for
the Holidays Parade at 4:00 PM, followed by the Annual Tree Lighting Ceremony
at 5:30pm on Main Street in Muller Plaza; Santa will meet with children at
Santa's Cottage.  On Sunday, there will
be a Gingerbread Contest, the Festival of Trees & Holiday Cookie Swap, at
the Foothills Performing Arts Center on Market Street.

Otsego County Sheriff's Department arrested 22 year old John
Morton of Fayetteville, for the theft of a motor vehicle from the Village of
Cooperstown on December 1st.  Police were
called to Stewart's following the complaint by a patron that when she returned
to her car from inside the store, her vehicle was gone; she did leave the car
unlocked with it running.   State Police
located the vehicle on State Route 28 in Richfield Springs, Morton was charged
with 3rd degree Grand Larceny, & 2 counts of Petty Larceny, he was
arraigned & remanded to the Otsego County Jail on $2000 cash bail or $4,000
bond pending future court action.

The Delaware County Chamber of Commerce will hold their next
networking breakfast this morning from 8:30 to 10:00 am at the Feather &
Stone Restaurant at 38 West Street in Walton.
The featured speaker is State Senator Jen Metzger.

The Friends of Afton Parade Committee will hold the annual
Afton Christmas Parade Saturday.  The
Parade line-up will be at Corporate Park on Route 7 at 4:00 pm, the parade
starts at 5:00pm & Santa will be in the NBT Bank after the parade. Food and
hot beverages provided by the Chamber of Commerce and VFW, located inside the
VFW. Community bonfire located in the First Baptist Church Parking lot after
the parade. More information is available at 208-5005, or the "Friends of
Afton" Facebook page.

Ernest Franklin of Guilford was sentenced in Chenango County
Court Monday, to 21 years to life in state prison, for the murder of his
adopted and disabled teen son Jeffrey, and starting a fire at the family home
to cover it up, in February of 2017.
Franklin planned the murder with his wife, Heather Franklin, who
accepted a guilty plea to manslaughter; she has not been sentenced for her role
in the murder.

Oneonta Mayor Gary Herzig announced that Oneonta Attorney
Donald Schwartz has been appointed a part time City Judge.  Schwartz fills the position vacated by the
retirement of Judge Richard McVinney, he was sworn in by Mayor Herzig Monday
afternoon.

Delhi Telephone Company is expanding broadband services into
previously unserved or underserved areas, with Internet, Cable TV including HD
& DVR & phone services.  Jason
Miller of DTC explains:

(Jason Miller 7-9-19)

Miller said that DTC
Representatives will be hosting a Meet & Greet with the Sidney center Fire
Department Saturday from 11:00 to 2:00 PM, as their services are available in
Sidney Center.

State Police arrested 36 year old Joshua Brown of West
Monroe, for Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance, Driving While
Ability Impaired by Drugs. Troopers responded to County Road 32 in the town of
North Norwich for a 1-car accident, they located the vehicle in a corn field
with Brown behind the wheel.  Brown was
transported to Chenango Memorial Hospital for an evaluation.  An investigation yielded suspected
concentrated cannabis, LSD, mushrooms and Marihuana wax.  Brown was arraigned in the town of Norwich
court and remanded to the Chenango County Jail on $5,000 cash bail or $10,000
property bond.

The next Delaware County Public Health Free Rabies
Vaccination Clinic for dogs, cats and ferrets will be held today from 5:00 to
7:00 pm at Franklin Fire Hall at 351 Main St. Franklin.   More information is available at 832-5200 or
delawarecountypublichealth.com

Final arguments were being delivered today in Chenango
County Court in the Ernest Franklin murder trial.  Franklin is accused of killing his special
needs son & setting the family home on fire in the town of Guilford in 2017,
watching the movie "Manchester by the Sea" with his wife, which
featured a similar plot.  Heather
Franklin will be tried separately at a later date, also in Chenango County
Court.

33 year old Kevin Begeal of Oxford has been arrested by
Oneonta City Police on Burglary, Grand Larceny & other Charges.  Begeal is accused of breaking into a Chestnut
Street home and stealing two guitars and a television, and he allegedly tried
to sell them to a Norwich Music Store.

International Women’s Day is today, and the Chenango County
Council of the Arts will be hosting a gallery exhibit At the Mareia Brown &
Raymond Loft galleries at 27 West Main Street in Norwich today.  Council Executive director Alecia O'Neill
explains:

(Alecia O'Neill 3-8-19)

The event is free & Open to the public, light refreshments
will be served, more information is available at 336-2787.

This Sunday morning at 2:00 AM marks a change in Daylight
savings time, clocks will be turned ahead 1 hour.  Local Fire Departments also remind area
residents to change the batteries in their smoke alarms at that time.

The Sidney Rotary Club Pancake Day will be held Saturday at
the River Street Fire Station.  The
fundraiser will be held from 7:00 AM to 12:00 Noon.

Many area fire departments responded to a fire on State Route 7 in the Wells Bridge area this morning. The fire started at about 7:00 AM at a 2 story structure across the road from the former Babcock's, firefighters from Wells Bridge, Unadilla, Franklin, Sidney, Oneonta, West Oneonta & Gilbertsville responded, traffic was detoured off of route 7 while firefighters tackled that fire. The investigation into the cause of the blaze is continuing.

Laurens Firefighters responded yesterday to a fire at a Main Street structure right across the street from their station Thursday afternoon at about 5:30. Firefighters from Laurens, West Laurens, Oneonta, West Oneonta, Mount Vision, Hartwick, Milford and Otego Fire Departments responded, the building contained 4 apartments and room for 2 businesses on the first floor, which were vacant. The building was considered destroyed. The cause of the fire is under investigation.

The Broome County Sheriff’s Office & Port Dickinson Police stopped a vehicle on the West Service Road near Chenango Street Sunday Morning after the vehicle was observed driving erratically & striking a concrete wall. Casey Farrell of Greene was arrested for Driving while Intoxicated, resisting arrest, & refusing to submit to a Chemical Test. Farrell was arraigned in Town of Fenton court and was remanded to the Broome County Jail on $2500 cash bail.

State Police arrested 27-year-old Justin Martin of Guilford, for DWI with a B.A.C. result of .16% along with other traffic violations, after Martin allegedly failed to stop at a red light in the Village of Bainbridge. Troopers discovered that Martin was wanted by the Oneonta City Police Department on a warrant. Martin was issued tickets for the Town of Bainbridge Court on January 23; he was then turned over to the Oneonta Police Department.

State Police arrested Heidi Cronin of Whitney Point, for Aggravated DWI with a B.A.C. result of .18%, as well as Resisting Arrest and several other traffic tickets. The arrest occurred after troopers responded to a Broome County 911 report of an intoxicated woman at the Speedway Gas Station in the Town of Triangle. Cronin allegedly flailed her arms and kicked officers as they handcuffed her; she Cronin was arraigned in the Town of Triangle Court and was remanded to the Broome County Jail with no bail.

The Oneonta Common Council will hold their next regular meeting this evening. The meeting will begin at 7:00 PM in City Hall & is open to the public.

Several area fire companies responded to a blaze at 389 Hunts Pond Road. The fire was reported at about 1:30 PM Monday & was under control by 5:30. No injuries among fire fighters were reported. The cause of the fire is under investigation.

The Sidney Civic Center was officially sold to 2+4 Management earlier this month; they plan to turn the 2nd & 3rd floors into Senior Apartments. Sidney Village mayor Andy Matviak comments:

(Andy Matviak 12-27-16)

Matviak said that village offices would remain where they are on the 1st floor. Matviak said that plans are also moving forward on Main Street, in the River street area, and also for new housing on Upper West Main Street.

The American Red Cross urges eligible donors to make an appointment to give blood to help meet the constant need for blood this winter. A blood drive is being held in Sidney today, from 1:00 to 6:00 PM, at the Sidney Elks Lodge at 104 River Street, another blood drive is being held in West Oneonta from 1:00 to 6:00 PM at the West Oneonta Fire Department, at 2865 County Highway 8. Those wishing to donate can Download the American Red Cross Blood Donor App, visit redcrossblood.org or call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767) to make an appointment or to get additional information.

Governor Cuomo won't be giving his usual State of the State address in Albany this January, instead, he will give 6 regional addresses during the week of January 9th. Cuomo will give his regional addresses in New York City, Western New York, the Hudson Valley, Long Island, Capital Region and Central New York. Times & locations will be announced shortly.

The American Red Cross encourages eligible donors to give blood to help ensure a readily available blood supply for emergencies. Donations decline around summer holidays like Labor Day. Appointments can be made by downloading the Red Cross Blood Donor App, visiting redcrossblood.org or by calling 1-800-RED CROSS. A blood drive will be held tomorrow from 8:00 AM to 1:00 PM at the Main Street Baptist Church Briggs Hall, 333 Main Street in Oneonta

The West Kortright Centre presents its 11th Annual Fair on Sunday, from 12:00 Noon until 6:00 PM. Spokesperson Charlene Sugihara explains:

(Charlene Sugihara 9-2-16)

Admission is $5.00 per person and children under 10 are free. The West Kortright Centre is located at 49 West Kortright Church Road in East Meredith; more information is available at 278-5454 or westkc.org.

City of Oneonta Police arrested 18-year-old Noah Graetz of Owings Mills Maryland & Hartwick College for Criminal possession of a Controlled substance & Criminal possession of marihuana. Oneonta Police Department Detectives received information regarding illegal narcotics and a large amount of marihuana on the Hartwick College campus; Police seized 6 grams of cocaine, 27 ounces of marijuana, & $2,150 cash. Graetz was held in the City of Oneonta Police Department pending arraignment in the City of Oneonta Court.

Delaware County Public Health announced that a raccoon has tested positive for Rabies in the town of Middletown. The Raccoon was sent to the State Rabies Lab for testing, the positive test results were received Wednesday. Officials said that there was 1 domestic animal and 1 human exposure; they are coordinating the Rabies Post Exposure Prophylaxis treatment that the adult will be receiving. The animal has been placed in quarantine for 6 months due to a short lapse in rabies vaccination status. The next scheduled rabies clinic is: Delhi Fire Station on October 19th, from 6:00 to 8:00 PM. More information is available at 832-5200 or delawarecountypublichealth.com.

The Susquehanna Balloon Glow Festival will be held in Oneonta this weekend. Activities begin this evening at 5:00 PM and will continue Saturday & Sunday. The full schedule of events is available at the Balloon Glow Fest Facebook page.

State Police arrested 34 year old Corey Maraglio of Oneonta, for criminal mischief, resisting arrest and disorderly conduct, after he jumped into the passenger seat of a state troopers vehicle at a gas station, He appeared to be in a drug induced state and refused to get out of the patrol vehicle. Maraglio did get out, the trooper handcuffed him, placed him in the front seat, and Maraglio became aggressive and struck his head twice on the patrol vehicle computer screen breaking it. Additional troopers responded, Maraglio was transported to Fox Hospital, he had no injuries, he was arraigned in the Town of Oneonta court and was remanded to the Otsego County jail in lieu of $3,000 cash bail or $6,000 property bond, pending future court action

The Sidney Center Improvement group is holding a "Lucky Day " Auction this Sunday May 1st at the Sidney center Fire Department. Group Spokesman Mike Sellitti explains:

(Mike Sellitti 4-26-16)

The Sidney center Fire department will also be holding their annual spring chicken barbecue Sunday, more information is available at scigny.org or at the Sidney center Improvement Group facebook page.

The Chenango Arts Council proudly announces the 15th annual Allegro 5K Run for the Arts will take place along the streets of downtown Norwich on Saturday, May 7th, spokesperson Alecia O’Neill comments:

(Alicia O’Neill 4-26-16)

Registration on May 7th begins at 8:00 am; the race starts at 9:00am at 27 West Main Street, in front of the Chenango Arts Council building. Online registration for the Run is available at www.ChenangoArts.org or by calling 336-ARTS.

The Norfolk Southern Railroad announced that the Rose Avenue crossing in Oneonta would be closed today for maintenance. Crews are scheduled to perform routine tie & surfacing work, and the road will be closed at the crossing only. More information is available at 304-964-0863 or 304-993-8293.

The 63rd annual Sidney Rotary Club Pancake Day tomorrow at the River Street Fire Station in Sidney from 7:00 AM to 1:00 PM.

The City of Oneonta Department of Public Service will be installing a new storm water collection system on Tilley Avenue & Walters street and they will be replacing an existing system on James Street, starting on march 15th. Work will take place between 7:00 AM to 6:00 PM weekdays through April 30th, with paving scheduled for this summer. More information is available at 432-2100.

With Daylight Savings Time approaching this weekend, The Firefighters Association of New York encourages all New Yorkers to test their smoke and carbon monoxide alarms and ensure their homes are properly protected against fire. Alarms with removable batteries should be replaced; residents possessing alarms equipped with sealed-in batteries should test the alarms to ensure they are in proper working condition. more information is available at fasny.com and nfpa.org.

The Chenango Arts Council announced their 1st Chenango Student Art Competition. The opening reception will be held on Friday, March 11th at 5:30 pm in the Mariea Brown and Raymond Loft Gallery at 27 West Main Street, Norwich, it is free and open to the public. Awards will be presented at 6:00 pm; more information is available at 336-ARTS or ChenangoArts.org.

The American Red Cross encourages eligible donors to donate blood today. Appointments can be made with the free Red Cross Blood Donor App, at redcrossblood.org or 1-800-RED CROSS. A Blood drive will be held in West Oneonta today from 1:00 to 6:00 PM at the West Oneonta Fire Department.

Governor Cuomo signed a bill into law that will help prevent future home fire deaths in New York State. The bill provides that batteries in battery operated single station smoke detecting alarm devices shall be non-replaceable, non-removable and capable of powering the devices for a minimum of ten years. The bill was proposed as Firefighters frequently encounter homes without smoke alarms or working smoke alarms, where residents fail to replace old batteries. The law goes into effect in 2017.

Delaware County Sheriff’s Deputies arrested 63-year-old Patricia Carlson of Oneonta following a Motor Vehicle Accident, for aggravated driving with a blood alcohol content of .18% or greater. Lab tests confirmed Carlson's BAC to be .32%, 4 times the legal limit. Carlson was arraigned at Delhi Town court and was released on her own recognizance.

The Chenango Arts Council presents " Cocktail Hour: The Show" at the Martin W. Kappel Theater at 27 West Main Street, Norwich Saturday night. Chenango Arts Council Executive Director Diane Batson Smith comments:

(Diane Batson Smith 12-4-15)

The show will start at 7:00 PM Tickets are available at chenangoarts.org, or at the Box Office at 336-ARTS.

The next free Chenango County rabies clinic will be held tomorrow at the city of Norwich Fire Station. The clinic will run from 9:30 to 11:00 AM.

Foothills Performing Arts Center will feature "Ornament" tonight in downtown Oneonta. Foothills Director Bill Young’s comments:

(Bill Youngs 12-4-15)

The doors open at 6:00 with food available prior to the Show at 7:00 PM. More information is available at 431-2080.

Destination Oneonta Annual Tree Lighting Event is scheduled this evening from 5:00 pm to 8:00 pm on Main Street. There will also be a Meet and Greet at the Welcome Center for the incoming and outgoing City, Town and County Representatives, Main Street will be closed beginning at 4:00 pm.

The Toys for Tots Train will be in Bainbridge Saturday. Bainbridge Chamber Of Commerce President John Payne Comments:

(John Payne 12-4-15)

Donations for Toys for Tots will be accepted at that time, The Train will leave at about 12:40, it will then arrive in Oneonta at about 1:30.

The State Attorney General's office will be doing a presentation on "Senior Scams" this afternoon at 2:00 PM at St. James Manor, Oneonta. The event is open to the public. More information is available at 432-4500 extension 207.

Springbrook will host an "Informed Decision Making" workshop today in the Events Room at their Campus on State Route 7 in Oneonta. The main goal of the workshop is to provide training for direct support professionals in understanding how to properly guide the people they support through the decision making process. The workshop is a half-day event from 9:00 AM to 12:30 PM and again from 1:30 to 4:30 PM.

State Police at Oneonta arrested 25-year-old Britney Fraser of Oneonta for criminal possession of a controlled substance, aggravated unlicensed operation of a motor vehicle & possessing a controlled substance in a non-original container. 21-year-old Ashley Harty of Sherburne was also charged with 3 counts of criminal possession of a controlled substance, and unlawful possession of marihuana. The arrests occurred after a vehicle stop when Fraser was observed failing to stop for approaching traffic as she drove onto State Route 7 in the Town of Oneonta. Troopers detected the odor of marihuana & a search was conducted, troopers accuse Fraser of possessing half of a narcotic and driving with a suspended license. Harty was found to unlawfully possess marijuana, heroin and cocaine. Fraser and Harty were arraigned at the Town of Oneonta court and both were remanded to the Otsego County jail on $400 cash bail or $800 property bond, pending Town of Oneonta court on November 12th.

The Oneonta Town Board will consider a presentation of a proposed budget for 2016 during a meeting at 6:30 PM today, in The Town Hall in West Oneonta.

Delaware County Public Health Services announces that the next free Rabies Vaccination Clinic For dogs, cats, and ferrets today from 6:00 to 8:00 PM at the Delhi Fire Hall at 140 Delview Terrace. This will be the last rabies clinic for 2015 for Delaware County; more information is available at 832-5200 or delawarecountypublichealth.com.

The Sidney Fire Department will host their annual Open House tonight at the River Street Fire Station, from 6:00 to 8:00 PM. The fire department will have a live burn demonstration, an auto extrication demonstration, aerial ladder rides, the Sidney Police Department will conduct their child-fingerprinting program, & refreshments will be available.

The United Way of Delaware and Otsego Counties, the Oneonta Lion’s Club and Hannaford of Oneonta, will be holding a food drive at the 2015 Oneonta Halloween Parade on Saturday, October 31st at 7:00 PM. All food and monetary donations will be given directly to Opportunities for Otsego and the Salvation Army Food Pantry to help defray the loss that both agencies will incur this year by the Holiday Train not making its annual visit to Oneonta. Volunteers from United Way will be on hand at the Halloween Parade with shopping carts donated by Hannaford to collect non-perishable food items. More information is available at 434-2458. Those who would like to donate prior to the parade can call the United Way at 432-8006.

The Oneonta Department of Public Service announced that flushing of water mains would continue on the low service in the Town of Oneonta, west of West End Avenue, for the next 2 weeks. Water users may experience a temporary change in water color or pressure; more information is available at 432-2100.

AM NEWS 7-9-13

Gov. Andrew Cuomo will consider calling the state Legislature back to Albany if the federal government does not quickly dispatch relief funds to the severely flooded parts of upstate. Persistent rain in recent weeks caused rivers and streams throughout the state to overflow, flooding counties throughout the Albany area, central New York, the Southern Tier and the North Country. During a briefing on the damage in Herkimer County on Sunday, Cuomo said he would push for President Obama to declare the flooded sites “disaster areas,” which would allow for the distribution of emergency federal funds. If the federal government does not respond, he will convene a special session.

New York Senator Charles Schumer announced Monday that New York State will be a participant in the USDA Greek Yogurt Pilot Program. The USDA released a solicitation to purchase Greek yogurt for delivery to participating schools in the upcoming School Year. Schools in New York, Tennessee, Idaho, and Arizona will be participating in the program. Bids are due on July 22 and the FSA expects to evaluate the bids and make awards by the end of July.

State Senator Jim Seward Announced a 250 Thousand dollar state grant for medical equipment and to help complete renovations at A.O. Fox Hospital in Oneonta. The grant will assist in the purchase of wall mounted computers and scanners to be used in single occupance patient rooms.

The Village of Bainbridge Planning Board will hold a special meeting Wednesday night to consider a site plan review for 2-4 Whitney Way in Bainbridge, the location where a fire recently destroyed the Upturn Industries building. The Meeting will be held at 7pm inside the Bainbridge Village Clerk's Office. The meeting is open to the public.

The New York State Department of Transportation will hold a public information meeting to discuss the replacement of the State Route 30 and 206 bridge over the East Branch Delaware River in the town of Colchester. The meeting will take place at the Downsville Fire Station this Wednesday at 7pm. The DOT said the bridge was constructed in 1953 and is nearing the end of it's service life.

The Binghamton Zoo will have an ice cream safari this Saturday July 13th. Five station will be positioned around the zoo with 5 different ice cream flavors. All of the zoo's animals will be on display including animal spotlights. For more information, go to Ross Park Zoo dot com.

The next Free Rabies Vaccination Clinic for dogs, cats, and ferrets in Delaware County, will be held today at the Deposit Town Clerk building at 3 Elm Street. The clinic will run from 6:00PM-8:00PM, more information is available at 832-5200 or at delawarecountypublichealth.com

On Friday evening, July 19th at 9:00 pm The Shire Pub in Delhi will be hosting a fundraiser for Habitat of Delaware County. Members of Habitat for Humanity of Delaware County are planning for a building project in the Delhi area. Additional information regarding Habitat for Humanity of Delaware County is available by accessing delawarecountyhabitat.org or at 746-9987.

Oneonta Police arrested 24-year-old Joshua West of Oneonta and 21-year-old Kyle Macken of Oneonta on charges of 1st degree robbery and 2nd degree assault.  The 2 were charged in connection with a robbery at knifepoint, the victim suffered a broken nose in the attack.  West and Macken face court action on the charges shortly, the unidentified victim was treated at Fox Hospital.

Fire fighters responded to a blaze at 311 Tunnel Road in Port Crane early this morning.  The house was completely destroyed the structure was fully involved when firefighters arrived at around 4:20AM.  Fire fighters from Port Crane, Harpursville and Sanitaria Springs responded, fire investigators are investigating the cause of that fire this afternoon.

This Saturday from 10:00am to 2:00pm, the Norwich Police Department will be accepting unwanted, unused or outdated prescription medications for disposal.  All of the unused medications will be accepted at the rear of the Police Station located at 18 East Main Street Norwich.