WCDO Radio News

P.M. NEWS WEDNESDAY 12-28-22

State Police were dispatched Christmas day at about 12:30 PM to assist the Oneonta City Fire Department with a fully engulfed single wide trailer at the Oneida Village Mobile Home Park on Oneida Street. Fire personnel located a deceased male in the residence. State Police Bureau of Criminal Investigation responded to the scene, the deceased man has been identified as 50 year old Aaron Blakeslee, who resided in the trailer. Oneonta Fire Department reported that 1 dog and 2 cats also died in the fire, there were no injuries to any firefighters. Investigators are working with the City of Oneonta Fire Department and State Fire Investigators to determine the cause of the fatal fire.

Governor Kathy Hochul signed a legislative package to crack down on pandemic fraud. The Legislation increases the award amounts given to individuals who report fraud related to a State of Emergency. Currently, private citizens can file civil lawsuits on behalf of the government to help recover defrauded money and may be rewarded a percentage of the money recovered. With this new law, whistleblowers may be eligible to receive additional money if the fraud was perpetrated during a state of emergency.

A.M. NEWS WEDNESDAY 12-28-22

Delaware County Emergency Services announced that crews from East Meredith, Pindars Corners, Stamford & Trout Creek Fire Departments were deployed to Erie County to assist with the disaster in Western New York. All were equipped with UTV's & brought necessary supplies for a 72 hour deployment.

The State Department of Health urges New Yorkers ages 6 months and older to get a flu shot, with the Department’s latest report showing an additional pediatric death, bringing the total to 5 so far this season. The Department's new flu surveillance report shows a total of 217,094 positive influenza cases across all 62 counties in New York have been reported to date. Outside of New York City, week-over-week lab-confirmed flu cases are up 4 percent to 36,047, the report is available at nyshc.health.ny.gov.

P.M. NEWS WEDNESDAY 12-14-22

The Winter Storm Watch is in effect Thursday Afternoon through Saturday Morning, local Meteorologist Rich Townsend told WCDO News what the latest computer models are showing for this storm:

Rich Townsend (12-14-22)

WCDO will continue to monitor this storm as it approaches and will relay any cancellations or postponements as they are announced.

Sidney Native Nancy Sue Burns passed away at the age of 85 on December 8th, Nancy Sue worked at the former Tri-Town News starting in 1975 & worked there for 43 years, rising to "Editor" of the weekly newspaper. A celebration of life for Nancy Sue will be held at a later date. In memory of Nancy Sue, donations can be made to the Chenango County Hospice in Norwich, more information is available at the CH Landers Funeral Chapel website.

A.M. NEWS Wednesday 12-14-22

State Police at Norwich arrested 62 year old Thomas Brick of Chenango Forks, on 2 counts of Grand Larceny, Troopers were contacted by a victim who had made an agreement with Brick to complete home renovations but no work had been completed. The contract was made in May and the victim paid Brick $18-thousand but called the State Police after several months of no work. Brick was arrested and processed at SP Norwich. He was arraigned and scheduled for his next court date in the Greene Village Court on January 5.

P.M. NEWS THURSDAY 12-8-22

Chenango County Sheriff's Office arrested 50 year old Andrew Frank Jr and 49 year old Rena Jones of Sherburne following a lengthy investigation & the execution of a search warrant. Frank and Jones were arrested on numerous counts of 3rd Degree Burglary and Criminal Mischief, for allegedly breaking into local businesses and stealing money and damaging property. Frank was arraigned and was remanded to the Chenango County Correctional Facility with no bail. Jones was released on an appearance ticket for Village of Sherburne Court on a later date. The investigation is still on going and more charges are pending.

The next legislative session in Albany will begin in January, local Assemblyman Joe Angelino told WCDO news that he will be watching what happens with the recently passed Environmental Bond Act:

(Joe Angelino 12-8-22)

Angelino said that with latest redistricting he gained 6 towns in Madison County to his district, but lost a few in Broome County, there will be another redistricting for the 2024 elections that could drastically change his district again.

The Sidney Central School District announced that the Observatory will be closed tonight, due to inclement weather.

A.M. NEWS Thursday 12-8-22

The Morris Central School District residents will be voting on a Building project on Tuesday December 13th, Superintendent Jamie Maistros told WCDO News about the $14.5 million dollar project:

(Jamie Maistros 12-8-22)

Maistros said that there will be a public forum today at 5:30 in the School Library, & a link to the meeting will be posted on the District Website for those who can not attend in person.

P.M. NEWS THURSDAY 12-1-22

The Bainbridge VA Clinic will be open today & tomorrow & the new Oneonta VA Clinic at Foxcare will be open on Monday, VA Spokesman Peter Potter explains:

(Peter Potter 12-1-22)

The new Clinic will be located at Foxcare in Oneonta with the latest State of the Art Equipment, all of the records for Vets who have been at the Bainbridge Clinic should be transferred over the weekend as crews get the new clinic ready to go Monday.

P.M. NEWS MONDAY 10-17-22

Ganesh Ramsaran of New Berlin will be granted a new murder trial soon in Chenango County Court, the decision follows the claim that Ramsaran received incompetent counsel from his attorney Gil Garcia, who had inflated his litigation experience & was eventually censured by the Supreme Court of New Jersey. In 2014 Ramsaran was found guilty of killing his estranged wife Jennifer in December 2012 & was sentenced to 25 years to life in prison, he has been appealing his conviction & sentence for 8 years.

The Latest Marist Poll shows incumbent Democratic Governor Kathy Hochul leading her Republican Lee Zeldin by 10% in the most recent polling. Hochul led by a 51% to 41% margin, 8% said that they voting for another party's candidate or were undecided. In the U.S. Senate contest in New York, Democratic incumbent Charles Schumer (54%) has a wide lead over his Republican challenger, Joe Pinion (34%)

The Bainbridge Chamber of Commerce will have their next regular meeting tomorrow. Tuesday's meeting will begin at 7:30 am at the back of Bob's Diner. Chamber members are encouraged to attend.

A.M. NEWS Monday 10-17-22

The International Association of Machinists & Aerospace Workers Local #1529 voted on Saturday to strike against Amphenol in Sidney following the latest 3 year contract proposal. The vote was held Saturday morning at the Sidney School District, picket lines have been set up at the Amphenol plants. The Union's Website stated that the 700 striking workers are looking for a contract that improves healthcare and paid sick leave benefits, and eliminated the two-tier wage system currently in place.

State tax receipts totaled $58.4 billion through the first half of State Fiscal Year, exceeding the latest projections from the 1st Quarterly Update, according to the September State Cash Report by State Comptroller Tom DiNapoli. Personal income tax receipts totaled $33.2 billion and were $2.4 billion above the state Division of the Budget’s latest financial plan projections through September 30.

P.M. NEWS TUESDAY 10-11-22

On Sunday, New York State extended the Executive Order to continue to maximize the resources available to protect New Yorkers against polio through vaccination. So far. Only 1 case of polio has been identified, but ongoing wastewater surveillance provides evidence of repeated polio-virus detections in sewage samples throughout the state. The latest wastewater results in Brooklyn & Queens, tested by CDC, found samples genetically linked to the case original case in Rockland County. More information is available at health.ny.gov/polio.

The Sidney Elks Lodge will host Veteran's Information & Services Day on November 2nd, at the lodge on River Street in Sidney. A variety of services will be offered, reservations are encouraged at 563-2175.

A.M. NEWS TUESDAY 10-11-22

An American Red Cross blood drive will be conducted today in Oneonta from 11:30 AM to 5:30 PM, on the State University of Oneonta campus at 101 C Alumni Hall, Appointments can be made at the Red Cross Blood Donor App, visiting RedCrossBlood.org or by calling 1-800-RED CROSS.

P.M. NEWS THURSDAY 9-22-22

With residential energy costs expected to rise nationwide this winter, U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand is calling for emergency supplemental funding for the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program or "LIHEAP":

(Gillibrand 9-22-22)

Senator Gillibrand said that over 1 million New York households get LIHEAP support to heat their homes, but additional funding is needed with the rising prices. Gillibrand said she favors the idea for the state to go back to a program where families that received help through SNAP, would automatically get LIHEAP assistance, without extra paperwork or bureaucracy.

The Otsego County Sheriff's Office is continuing with an investigation into animal cruelty at a farm in the town of Butternuts earlier this week. Numerous animals were removed & were taken to the Susquehanna SPCA for evaluation & treatment, so far, no charges have been announced against the owner of the animals.

A.M. NEWS THURSDAY 9-22-22

State Police arrested 56 year old Francesco Carotenuto of Schenevus for 1st degree rape, he was previously arrested on charges for Promoting Sexual Performance by a Child and Possessing Sexual Performance by a Child on September 8, 2022. After a further investigation, Investigators learned that Carotenuto forcibly engaged in sexual intercourse with a victim several years ago. Carotenuto was in jail for the previous charges, he was processed and returned to jail.

The State Department of Health announced the launch of a dedicated long COVID website, and audio resources, providing a more comprehensive and more accessible destination for the State’s latest information, at health.ny.gov/diseases/long_COVID.

The Delaware County Chamber of Commerce will honor this year's Business Awards in a variety of categories, Chamber President Ray Pucci told WCDO News about the winners:

(Ray Pucci 9-22-22)

The Event begins at 5:30 PM at The Andes Hotel.

P.M. NEWS TUESDAY 9-20-22

Hospice & Palliative Care of Chenango County are collecting items for their 2022 home made sale, which will be held in October, Hospice Spokesperson Sarah Green told WCDO News what kind of home made items they are looking for:

(Sarah Green 8-24-22)

Green said that the Items must be in to Hospice by this Friday September 23rd, at their Court Street Norwich offices, more information is available at 334-3556.

Delaware County Sheriff's Deputies arrested 68 year old Peter Maguire of East Meredith following a trespass investigation in Walton. On August 11th, Deputies responded to a report of a male entering onto and trespassing on several properties in the Village of Walton. After the investigation, the Village of Walton Court issued a criminal summons to Maguire for trespassing, he was arrested September 10th he was released and was ordered to appear in Walton Village Court at a later date..

A.M. NEWS Tuesday 9-20-22

The Raymond Corporation is continuing with a series of events to celebrate their 100th Anniversary, with their 8th annual Manufacturing day in October, Raymond President Michael Field told WCDO about Raymond's beginnings:

(Michael Field 9-20-22)

Fields said that the next 100th anniversary event is Manufacturing Day on October 7th, it is a virtual event, with a 1 hour video experience available throughout the month, for students who registered through their teachers, through Raymondcorp.com/ManufacturingDayRegistration.

The State Health Department reminds New Yorkers about the availability of bivalent COVID-19 vaccine boosters from Pfizer, for anyone age 12 or older and from Moderna for those 18 or older. To schedule an appointment for a booster, New Yorkers should contact their local pharmacy, county health department, or healthcare provider; or visit vaccines.gov; the latest COVID 19 stats show a 6.88% positivity rate, the 7-Day rolling average was 6.43%, Patient Hospitalization are down to 2,002, with 215 ICU Patients & 69 on ventilators.

P.M. NEWS FRIDAY 9-16-22

Broome County District Attorney Mike Korchak announced that 31 year-old James Lynch will spend 3 ½ to 3 years in prison after pleading guilty to 3rd degree attempted robbery, in Broome County Court. Lynch forcibly stole cash from a cab driver in Binghamton in January 28, The driver reported the robbery to Binghamton Police, who located Lynch & arrested him.

The Greater Oneonta Historical Society opens their latest exhibit today; entitled "Town & Gown: SUNY Oneonta and the Local Community, Past and Present" The exhibit is located at the Oneonta History Center’s at 183 Main Street, the exhibit will be on display until November 12th.

The “Doctors with a Heart Day” is tomorrow, Progressive Dental’s Endwell and Norwich offices will offer free services tomorrow from 8:00 AM until 12:00 Noon. Services offered free of charge include cleanings, fillings, and extractions.

A.M. NEWS FRIDAY 9-16-22

The Bainbridge-Guilford Board of Education voted to honor former soccer coach and technology teacher, Peter Feltham, by naming the soccer field after him, BG Superintendent Tim Ryan said that there will be a dedication tonight to the coach, and he expects a large turnout:

(Tim Ryan 9-16-22)

Coach Feltham was recently diagnosed with brain cancer and is undergoing treatment, the event will begin at 5:00 PM, followed by the dedication at 6:00 PM, followed by the varsity boys’ soccer game at 7:00 PM.

P.M. NEWS THURSDAY 9-8-22

Governor Hochul announced that masks in New York will be "options" in some places that had previously been required. Masks are still required at healthcare facilities, nursing homes, correction facilities and domestic violence shelters. Local municipalities may chose to impllement masks rules in areas where the rate of transmission is higher.

The SUNY Oneonta campus will reflect on the anniversary of the 9/11/2001 terrorist attacks & honor 7 SUNY Oneonta alums lost on that day. The event will be held at the 9/11 Memorial in the upper quad on tomorrow from 9:00 to 10:00 AM.

A.M. NEWS THURSDAY 9-8-22

Delaware County Sheriff's Deputies responded on September 3rd to Domestic Dispute in the Town of Hamden, between Christopher Yeary and a victim that had an Order of Protection against him. Yeary left the scene & Deputies located him a short time later, he physically obstructed uniformed police officers attempting to take him into custody, he was charged with Criminal Contempt and Obstructing Governmental Administration. Yeary was arraigned in the Town of Hamden and was remanded to the Delaware County Correctional Facility on $40,000 cash bail or $80,000 bond, pending future court action..

New COVID-19 vaccine boosters are available to New Yorkers which are designed to add Omicron BA.4 and BA.5 variants and bolster previous vaccination protection. The announcement follows the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's recommendation to use updated COVID-19 boosters from Pfizer for anyone age 12 or older and from Moderna for those 18 or older. To find a location near your home to get the latest shot, go to vaccines.gov. The State Health Department reported that the 7 day rolling average for those tested for COVID was just under 6%, with over 2200 hundred hospitalized, 235 were in an ICU bed, with 88 on ventilators.

P.M. NEWS WEDNESDAY 9-7-22

The U.S. Department of Justice announced Tuesday that 42 year old Jeremie Hoyt of Davenport, was sentenced to 25 Years in prison for Sexually Exploiting a Child, and Distributing and Possessing Child Pornography. Hoyt pleaded guilty to the charges in US District Court in April, he was also sentenced to a 30 year term of supervised release, Hoyt will also be required to register as a sex offender.

The latest Sienna Institute polling showed that the majority of New Yorkers approve of the student loan forgiveness plan announced by President Joe Biden. 56% of respondents supported the plan while 33% opposed it, also, 54% of respondents have paid off all their federal loans, while 45% still have a balance.

The State Health Department reports that as of today, there are a total of 3,485 confirmed monkeypox cases in New York State. 92% of the cases are in New York City, there are 2 confirmed cases in Broome County & 1 in Delaware County. Symptoms of monkeypox can include Rashes, bumps, or blisters, Flu-like symptoms, such as fever, headache, muscle aches, chills, and fatigue. These symptoms may occur before or after the rash appears, or not at all. More information is available at health.ny.gov/diseases.

A.M. NEWS WEDNESDAY 9--7-22

The Sidney Central School District will seek voter approval on September 13th for an $8 Million dollar project, Sidney Superintendent Eben Bullock told WCDO News about the proposal.

(Eben Bullock 9-7-22)

Bullock said that the project would be paid for with State Aid & A Capital Reserve fund, with no effect to District Taxpayers. Voting will be next Tuesday from 11:00 AM to 8:00 PM in the Jr/Sr High School cafeteria.

P.M. NEWS WEDNESDAY 8-31-22

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

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

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

A.M. NEWS WEDNESDAY 8-31-22

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

P.M. NEWS THURSDAY 8-25-22

The New York State Fair official opening day attendance Wednesday was 49,112, about 11,700 more people than last year’s extended fair’s Day 1. The Opening Day attendance was still far less than the record-setting 74,000 attendees on opening day in 2019, the year before the pandemic. On average, the fair attracts over 57,000 people on opening days.

The Latest COVID 19 statistics show a slow steady decline, with 7% Positivity rate reported on Tuesday, the 7 day rolling average was down to 6.29%. Patients hospitalizations have declined to 2,394, that a decrease of about 175 since last week, also there were 252 ICU patients with 102 on Ventilators, which is an increase of 13 since last week, & with the overall decline in COVID 19 cases, Students in New York state will not have to wear masks or be quarantined if they came in contact with someone with COVID.

Visitors will be allowed at the Broome County Correctional Facility starting September 5th, visitation had been suspended in March 2020 at the beginning of the COVID 19 pandemic, a Lawsuit was filed to allow visitors back into the Jail and a decision in the State Supreme Court allowed for the Jail to be re-opened for visitation, as the COVID situation had changed considerable since 2020.

A.M. NEWS THURSDAY 8-25-22

Broome County District Attorney Mike Korchak announced that 29 year old Joel Valdes-Pica of Binghamton pleaded guilty to Attempted Robbery, for assaulting a Family Dollar employee who was making a deposit at the M&T Bank on Exchange Street, taking over $1,000. Valdes-Pica is also a repeat Violent Felony Offender and will serve 5 years in New York State Prison starting in November.

P.M. NEWS THURSDAY 8-18-22

Delaware County Clean Sweep returns in October for County residents to properly dispose of hazardous materials, Delaware County Solid Waste Coordinator Tyson Robb explains:

(Tyson Robb 8-18-22)

Registration is underway online at cleansweepdelaware.eventbrite.com, farms & businesses will bring their items on Friday October 7th, households on Saturday October 8th.

The Bainbridge Guilford Central School District Board of Education meeting originally scheduled for tonight, has been postponed, the next meeting will be held on Thursday August 25th at 6:00 PM at the Guilford Elementary school.

A.M. NEWS THURSDAY 8-18-22

Governor Hochul announced that the VaxtoSchool campaign will begin soon, in order to get children vaccinated against COVID before the start of school. The latest COVID Positivity rates were just under 8%, the 7 day average was down to 5.72%, Patient Hospitalization were 2,509, with 249 ICU Patients, 96 on Ventilators, there were 24 deaths reported from nursing homes & hospitals.

P.M. NEWS MONDAY 8-8-22

The Delaware County Fair will get underway next week August 15th through the 20th, in Walton, Spokesman Jason Craig told WCDO News that the preparations are coming together quickly:

(Jason Craig 8-8-22)

The full schedule of events for the fair can be found at delawarecountyfair.org.

The State Health Department reported on the latest COVID Statistics Friday, the Positivity rate was almost 8.5% with 6502 positive cases in more than 74,000 Tests. There were 2550 people hospitalized statewide with 224 patients in an ICU, with 81 on Ventilators, there were 20 more deaths reported in Hospitals & Nursing Homes, 73,028 have died from COVID since 2020.

State Police & Emergency crews responded to the report of a concrete truck rollover today on I-88 in the town of Unadilla. No tickets have been announced, more information will be released following the investigation.

A.M. NEWS MONDAY 8-8-22

The Delaware County Department of Public Works will be closing County Route 16 in the Towns of Delhi and Franklin to through traffic beginning at 7:00 AM today, through this Thursday to replace several culvert pipes. The road will be reopened at the end of the day each day. The traveling public should seek alternate routes.

P.M. NEWS WEDNESDAY 7-27-22

The Broome County Sheriff’s Office responded Tuesday morning at the abandoned Vestal Hills Country Club, for the report of a person being shot with a Bow & Arrow. Deputies found 23-year-old Bayso Vannavongsa of Binghamton early Tuesday morning in the parking lot of the Country Club with a non-life threatening wound to his chest. He was transported to Wilson Hospital for evaluation. State police attempted to stop the vehicle that allegedly left the scene, and the 2 occupants, Savannah Perry and Carson Vanco of Endicott, fled but were found on Powderhouse Road. Police accuse Vanco of shooting the arrow at Vannavongsa, The investigation is on-going and criminal charges are expected.

Federal Prosecutors announced that 63 year old Timothy Deuel of Tioga County, pleaded guilty to 3 counts of possession of child pornography. Deuel was sentenced in the U.S. District Court in 2015 to 87 months imprisonment and 10 years supervised release as a result of his conviction for distribution of child pornography, he admitted that he again possessed approximately 1,000 images of child pornography and more than 200 video files of child pornography. Sentencing on the latest conviction will be on November 29th, Deuel faces a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison, a fine of up to $250,000, and a term of supervised release of at least 5 years and up to life.

Sidney Rotary Club & Cullman Child Developmental Center of Sidney continue to gain popularity with their free summer events, Rotary Spokesman Larry Halbert said that their recent Dairy Day event was very successful, and they anticipate similar attendance at the "Big Rig Event" August 6th:

(Larry Halbert 7-27-22)

Halbert said that the event will be held at the Cullman Center at 90 West Road in Sidney, more information is available at the Sidney Rotary Facebook Page, or by calling 563-PLAY.

A.M. NEWS Wednesday 7-27-22

The World Health Organization declared the international monkeypox outbreak a global emergency, & the State Department of Health continues to monitor the current monkeypox outbreak.   Chenango County Department of Public Health Director Isaiah Sutton told WCDO News that they are prepared if a case is confirmed locally:

(Isaiah Sutton 7-26-22)

Sutton said that anyone with symptoms of monkeypox should first call their health care provider, more information is also available by calling the Chenango County Health Department at (607) 337-1660.

P.M. NEWS TUESDAY 7-26-22

State Police reported that 79 year old RoseMarie Windisch of Jefferson was the driver of a vehicle that veered into the opposing lane & hit a Flatbed Truck July 21st. Windisch was pronounced dead at the scene, on State Route 23 in the Town of Roxbury, The flatbed truck operators was unable to avoid the collision, & was treated at Bassett Medical Center in Cooperstown for non-life-threatening injuries.

Catholic Charities announced another successful Mass Food Distribution in Sidney on July 19th. 623 Households received food, 36 Families had 6 people or more in their household, a total of 1,742 People received over 17,000 pounds of food. 58 volunteers helped distribute the food at latest Sidney event.

The State Health Department reported that the positivity rate from the latest strains of COVID 19 is still just under 10% state wide. Patient Hospitalizations continue to increase back up to 2,649, there are 253 ICU patients, 79 on ventilators, there were 24 more deaths reported in Hospitals & nursing homes from COVID 19.

The Alzheimer's Association Walk to End Alzheimer will be held in Oneonta at Neahwa Park on September 25th this year, which is a key fundraiser for the Association, Spokesperson Ann Thayer told WCDO News that while the event is 2 months away, people can start forming teams to participate right now:

(Ann Thayer 7-26-22)

More information about the Leatherstocking/Oneonta Walk on Sunday, September 25th, or other programs, can be found by calling Thayer at 607-206-4514. at Neahwa Park in Oneonta. We hope you'll join and add your flower to our Walk.

A.M. NEWS TUESDAY 7-26-22

State Police responded to a shooting in the town of Union Monday night. An adult male was found to have been shot in the chest and was transported to Wilson Memorial Hospital in Johnson City, The 40-year-old victim suffered non-life-threatening injuries.  There is no threat to the public and the investigation is on-going.  Anyone with information is asked to call State Police at (607)561-7400.

P.M. NEWS FRIDAY 7-15-22

Village of Sidney Police Department responded Thursday night at about 9:50 PM, to a security alarm activation at Smoker's Choice at 6 Doran Lane, where a burglary was in progress, a suspect has been identified and an arrest is pending. While at Smoker's Choice, officers received a report of shots fired and a person with a firearm on Union Street at the Maria's convenience store, Police found no evidence of a discharged firearm, a store employee was checking the business for a break in & legally possessed a firearm, police discovered that a burglary was attempted at Maria's prior to the Smoker's Choice burglary. The investigation is ongoing.

The State Health Department reported the latest statistics on the COVID 19 pandemic, and the results of Wednesday's testing statewide. Over 97,000 New Yorkers were tested Wednesday, with over 9200 positives, the statewide positivity rate is still slightly over 9%. Hospitalizations are back over 2400, with 233 Patients in an ICU bed & 70 on ventilators., there were 14 more deaths in hospitals & nursing homes Wednesday.

Chenango County Department of Public Works announced that they will be participating in a paint recycling program year round, spokesman Dustin Hendricks explains:

(Dustin Hendricks 7-15-22)

Hendricks said that the Paint Care program is a state wide recycling program, the paints can be brought to the Chenango County recycling locations any day during normal business hours.

A.M. NEWS FRIDAY 7-15-22

Delaware County Sheriff's Office arrested 25 year old Matthew Fenelon of Brooklyn for Aggravated Unlicensed Operation & a variety of other charges, following an investigation of a Rollover accident in the Town of Franklin July 5th. Deputies reported that the vehicle was operated by Fenelon, he was extricated from the vehicle and transported to a hospital by LifeNet. Deputies found that Fenelon was operating a vehcile with a suspended registration, his driving privileges were also suspended. On July 8th, Deputies made contact with Fenelon after he was released from the hospital & he was arrested & was released on appearance tickets for Town of Franklin Court at a later date.

P.M. NEWS MONDAY 7-11-22

The State Health Department reports elevated levels of COVID 19's latest strains, in all regions of the state in their testing on Friday. There were 11 deaths reported for Friday with 222 patients in ICU and 79 patients on Ventilators, The statewide positivity rate for the day is 9.20%, the Southern tier had among the lowest positivity rates at 6.12% Friday.

Firefighters from Norwich, North Norwich, Plymouth & Sherburne responded to a structure fire at 145 Morgan Acres north of the City of Norwich Monday morning. Norwich Fire Chief Jan Papelino told WCDO News that a neighbor removed a dog, firefighters kept the fire from spreading further into the structure, which sustained sufficient damage, the investigation is continuing.

The State Comptroller's office audited the West Colesville Volunteer Fire Company, the audit found that the board did not have sufficient controls or information to ensure all disbursements were appropriate and necessary. As a result, the company made unnecessary disbursements totaling $4,107, the board also could not determine whether all collections were properly recorded or deposited.

A.M. NEWS MONDAY 7-11-22

The New York State Department of Motor Vehicles is warning people of a phishing scam claiming the state is offering $1,500 rebates because of high gas prices, where the scammers send text messages instructing people to click the link to see if they qualify, the link leads to a website designed to look like the actual DMV site. It asks for personal information, State officials report that this is an attempt at identity theft or to install malicious software on computers or cell phones. If you suspect you may have been contacted through a phishing scam, you can email the DMV at: dmv.sm.phishingattacks@dmv.ny.gov.

P.M. NEWS THURSDAY 7-7-22

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

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

Hospice & Palliative Care of Chenango County announced their 2022 home made sale, which will be held later this year. Hospice Spokesperson Sarah Green told WCDO News what kind of home made items they are looking for:

(Sarah Green 7-7-22)

Items must be in to Hospice by September 1st, the sale will be held at the hospice location at 33- 39 Court Street in Norwich on October 15th from 9:30 AM to 3:00 PM.

A.M. NEWS THURSDAY 7-7-22

The Afton Fair will run today through Sunday this year, With Gillette rides all 4 days starting at 4:00 PM today, Spokesperson Rhonda Barriger explains:

(Rhonda Barriger 7-7-22)

This year is the 133rd edition of the Afton fair, at the Fairgrounds, more information is available at 607-639-1525 or theaftonfair.com.

P.M. NEWS THURSDAY 5-26-22

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

(Major VanAuken 5-26-22)

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

A.M. News Thursday 5-26-22

Former area Congressman Antonio Delgado Was sworn in Wednesday as New York’s lieutenant governor, The role was previously held by Brian Benjamin, who resigned following his arrest in April for federal corruption charges, Delgado will also be governor Kathy Hochul’s running mate in this year’s gubernatorial election.

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

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

(Sue McIntyre 5-26-22)

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

P.M. NEWS WEDNESDAY 5-25-22

The Village of Sidney will have their Resilient Sidney Open House Thursday, to discuss their options, according to Sidney Village Grants Administrator John Redente:

(John Redente 5-25-22)

The meeting will be Thursday from 4:00 to 7:00 PM at the Sidney Civic Center on Liberty street, more information is also available by email to resilientsidney@gmail.com or by calling 607-561-2324.

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

A.M. NEWS WEDNESDAY 5-25-22

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

P.M. NEWS MONDAY 5-16-22

The CDC reports that COVID-19 sub-variants continuing to spread, with all but 1 county in New York State designated as medium or high-risk. The State Health Department recommends that people wear masks in indoor public spaces, regardless of vaccination status. 45 counties in New York are now designated as high-risk, up from 36 counties just a week ago, another 16 counties have been designated as medium-risk and only The Bronx remains at low-risk levels. The majority of the Northeast states are deemed medium or high-risk for COVID spread of the latest sub variants.

A.M. NEWS MONDAY 5-16-22

18 year old Payton Gendron of Conklin has been charged with 1st degree murder, for the mass shooting Saturday at a Buffalo Tops Supermarket, 10 people were killed, 3 injured, Buffalo Police believe that Gendron drove to Buffalo specifically to shoot & kill black people in the supermarket in a predominantly Black neighborhood, Gendron allegedly posted a white supremacist manifesto online, he had previously received a mental health evaluation after making threats of violence in 2021 at Susquehanna Valley High School. Gendron is being held without bail pending court action on Thursday, more charges are expected as the investigation continues, the FBI is investigating.

P.M. NEWS MONDAY 4-18-22

The National Weather Service has a Winter Storm Warning in effect this evening & into tomorrow morning, Local Meteorologist Rich Townsend told WCDO News what the latest models are showing for this storm:

(Rich Townsend 4-18-22)

The Winter Storm warning is in effect from 6:00 PM tonight until 12:00 Noon tomorrow.

The Binghamton Black Bears have made the playoffs with Game 1 of a prospective 3 game series tonight at the Arena against Danbury, Black Bears Spokesman Rob Lippolis told WCDO News that its been quite a while since there has been playoff hockey in Binghamton:

(Rob Lippolis 4-18-22)

Some tickets are still available for tonight's game at Ticketmaster.com or by calling 607-722-7367.

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

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

A.M. NEWS MONDAY 4-18-22

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

P.M. NEWS WEDNESDAY 2-9-22

Governor Kathy Hochul announced the end of the indoor mask mandate in New York State effective tomorrow. Previously, the state had required masks to be worn inside businesses where vaccination status was not being checked. The mandate will remain in effect at homeless shelters, healthcare centers, state-run nursing homes, schools and childcare centers, and correctional facilities. Statewide COVID-19 Cases Down 93% Since January 7th Peak, the COVID-19 Hospitalizations is down 63% since the peak on January 12th, the positivity rate for COVID 19 tests decreased to 3.67% on Tuesday

The Chamber Alliance of New York State, a statewide association of over 70 Chambers of Commerce, has elected Kerri Green, President and CEO of Commerce Chenango, to its Board of Directors. Green officially began her term last month, she has been with Commerce Chenango since August 2019. The Chamber Alliance of NYS is an association of Chambers of Commerce dedicated to providing members with education and insight into the latest trends and issues, as well as a forum with Chambers to connect and collaborate throughout the State.

A.M. NEWS WEDNESDAY 2-9-22

The City of Norwich recently won a 10 Million Dollar Downtown Revitalization Initiative Grant, to help transform the downtown area & boost the city’s economy. The Local Planning Committee will have its next meeting through ZOOM this afternoon at 3:00 PM, more information is available by calling Commerce Chenango at 334-1400.

P.M. NEWS WEDNESDAY 1-19-22

State Lawmakers are getting a chance to see the Executive Budget proposal from Governor Kathy Hochul, State Senator Peter Oberacker told WCDO News of his initial impressions, and hopes for the state budget:

(Oberacker 1-19-22)

Assemblyman Joe Angelino also commented about the Governor's budget proposal:

(Angelino 1-19-22)

The budget, as unveiled by the Governor, totals 216.3 billion dollars, lawmakers have until April 1st to get the budget passed on time.

The Otsego County Department of Health reported their 100th death from COVID 19 in their latest report. The County has had 5 deaths already this year, they reported 128 new cases, and they have 8 hospitalized and a positivity rate of 16.8% over the previous 7 days.

U.S. Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer and U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand announced $420,000 in federal funding to develop and implement regional economic development strategies throughout New York State. The funding was allocated through the Economic Development Administration and will promote public-private partnerships to diversify and strengthen regional economies in New York. The Southern Tier East Regional Planning Development Board receives $70,000 for the Development and implementation of economic development strategies for 8 counties, 129 towns, 54 villages and the cities of Binghamton, Ithaca, Cortland, Oneonta, and Norwich.

A.M. NEWS WEDNESDAY 1-19-22

State Police at Sidney are looking to identify a white male subject, who was caught on a surveillance camera at the Bainbridge Coin Laundry on West Main Street in the village of Bainbridge November 20th, and is a suspect in a larceny investigation. Anyone with information asked to call State Police at (607) 561-7400, pictures can be viewed on the state police Facebook page.

P.M. NEWS TUESDAY 1-18-22

Governor Kathy Hochul unveiled a 216.3 Billion Dollar budget plan for the 22-23 fiscal year earlier today:

(Kathy Hochul 1-18-22)

State Budget Director Robert Mujica said that the state has learned its lesson about having money set aside for a rainy day:

(Robert Mujica 1-18-22)

State lawmakers have until April 1st to get the state budget passed on time.

Chenango County Health Department reported large decreases in their COVID 19 numbers in their latest report. There are 210 active cases in Chenango County, a third of those are vaccinated, there are 286 quarantined & 2 hospitalized. Chenango County has had just over 7900 COVID 19 cases since the pandemic hit 2 years ago.

The Southern Tier Chapter of the American Red Cross Western New York Region is accepting nominations through January 31 for its 13th annual Real Heroes event. Local heroes across Broome, Chenango, Delaware, Otsego, & surrounding counties will be honored in May. To access the nomination form and a description of award categories, visit redcross.org/SouthernTierRealHeroes.

A.M. NEWS TUESDAY 1-18-22

DCMO BOCES will host a job fair Today, as they look to fill a variety of positions. The job fair will take place from 10:00 AM to 12:00 Noon & also from 4:00 to 6:00 PM at the DCMO Support Services Center behind the main Alan Pole Campus building on County Road 32 in North Norwich.

P.M. NEWS TUESDAY 1-11-22

State Police arrested 2 men Saturday for 1st degree Robbery following the report of an armed Robbery in Davenport Friday. Troopers responded to a report of a robbery at gunpoint, their investigation revealed that 2 men known to the victim threatened, pistol whipped and stole items from him. Investigators arrested 42 year old Ryan Flood of Davenport, he was found to be in possession of an unregistered and loaded gun, he was charged with Robbery, & Criminal Possession of a Weapon, Police later arrested 34 year old Timothy White of Oneonta for Robbery, Both were arraigned and remanded to Delaware County jail on $25,000 cash bail or $50,000 bond.

The Otsego County Health Department reported 1 new death from COVID 19 in their latest report, bringing their total to 97 since the pandemic began. Otsego County has 959 active cases, with 92 added Monday, they have 6 hospitalized. Otsego County Health Department also has a feature on their website to report a positive COVID test from a home testing kit.

Governor Kathy Hochul announced today that all the New Yorkers enrolled in SNAP will receive the maximum allowed of amount of food for January. All the homes that participate in SNAP, including those that already are on the level maximum of benefits, will receive one assignment further by the end of this month, providing approximately $ 230 million in funding federal to the economy of the state. More information is available at mybenefits.ny.gov.

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A.M. NEWS TUESDAY 1-11-22

The State Health Department reported that over 282,000 were tested for COVID Sunday, with over 54,000 positives, for a positivity rate of 19.35%. Over 12,000 are hospitalized, over 1500 are in an ICU unit and almost 800 are on ventilators, there were 135 deaths in hospitals & nursing homes from COVID Sunday.

P.M. NEWS TUESDAY 1-4-22

Governor Kathy Hochul today announced a partnership with SUNY and Syracuse University in which 10 new testing sites will be opening on State University of New York campuses across the state and at Syracuse University the week of Jan. 3. More campus sites will open in the coming weeks as the project expands. SUNY testing sites to open later this week include Binghamton University & SUNY Oneonta.

Norwich has a New Mayor, Brian Doliver, who was sworn in last Friday, he told WCDO News that he has a busy schedule already, and he has State Money coming to help with their infrastructure issues:

(Brian Doliver 1-4-22)

Doliver replaces Shawn Sastri as Mayor, who declined to run for Re-election last November.

AM NEWS TUESDAY 1-4-22

State Police are seeking the public’s assistance in obtaining information about a burglary that occurred in the town of Hartwick, between the Sunday evening & Monday Morning. The suspect unlawfully entered a residence on Poplar Avenue and caused physical injury to an elderly victim, who was transported to Bassett Hospital and is in stable condition. Anyone with information is asked to contact State Police at (607)561-7400.

Delaware County Public Health reported 279 new positive cases of COVID 19 in their latest report covering Thursday through Monday, the positivity rate was up to 15.3%. Delaware County has 462 positive cases with 375 quarantined, there have been 85 deaths from the virus during the pandemic.