Delaware County District Attorney’s Office announced that 32 year old Courtni Baker of Sidney, appeared in Delaware County Court on September 25th and was sentenced for Aggravated Vehicular Assault. Baker had previously pleaded guilty to Aggravated Vehicular Assault and Aggravated DWI following a crash in February in the Village of Sidney, where she struck 14 year old Anielle “AK” McEwan Lomnicki as she was walking home from school. Judge Hubbard sentenced Baker to an indeterminate term of state prison having a minimum of 4 years and a maximum of 12 years for Aggravated Vehicular Assault, she was also sentenced to serve a concurrent 1-year sentence for her conviction of Aggravated DWI. The Court imposed fines totaling $2,270.00 and ordered that the defendant’s driver’s license be revoked.
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State Comptroller Tom DiNapoli has published a report detailing the economic issues facing 10 rural upstate counties, including Chenango & Delaware Counties. DiNapoli’s report states that while the state population increased by about 4% from 2011 to 2021, rural population dropped by 3.4%. Rural populations tend to be older, the labor force dropped by 3.7% & the job participation rate was only 55%, compared to 63% statewide. The full report can be found at osc.state.ny.us.
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The Sidney Center Improvement Group will hold their 1st annual Down Home Fall Festival this Sunday, which will feature the newly installed playground & a wide variety of activities, according to Group Spokesman Mike Sellitti:
(Mike Sellitti 9-26-23)
The event will run from 2:00 to 6:00 PM Sunday at the Sidney Center Park, more information about the event & the Sidney Center Improvement Group can be found on the group’s Facebook Page.
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The Unatego Booster Club & The local Chapter of the Alzheimer’s Association will hold the 1st annual Alec Pitel Memorial: sprinting For the Spartan’s walk & run on Sunday at 10:00 AM. Booster Club Spokesperson Kathy Newman said that Alec Pitel was an active Community member who passed away earlier this year after a battle with Alzheimer’s disease:
(Kathy Newman 9-26-23)
The 5K Run & Walk will start at 10:00 AM Sunday at the Unatego High School Cross Country Course, registration is available online sprintinforspartans5K.itsyourrace.com.
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State Attorney General Letitia James & 17 other state’s attorneys general, joined the Federal Trade Commission in suing Amazon, alleging that the online retail and technology company is a monopolist that uses a set of interlocking anti-competitive and unfair strategies to illegally maintain its monopoly power. The lawsuit alleges that Amazon’s actions allow it to stop rivals and sellers from lowering prices, degrade quality for shoppers, overcharge sellers, stifle innovation, and prevent rivals from fairly competing against Amazon.
A.M. NEWS TUESDAY 9-26-23
State Police announced that applications to take the New York State Trooper Entrance Exam have reached 10,000. The age to become a State trooper has been changed from 29 to 34. New York State will be offering the Trooper Entrance Exam at 59 testing centers across the state, as well as over 250 locations across the United States and 112 military locations around the world. Individuals wishing to take the Trooper Entrance Exam may sign up on the website at JoinStatePolice.ny.gov. The last day to submit an application is Sunday, October 1. The last day to submit your entrance exam, whether online or in person, is Sunday, October 15.
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A free virtual job fair will be held today, from 11:00am to 1:00pm, for all businesses and job seekers in the several local counties, including Chenango, Delaware, and Otsego Counties. The online event is sponsored by the Workforce Development Board, more information is available at working-solutions.org.
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]]>Anielle “AK” McEwan Lomnicki has been cleared to play basketball at the Gus Macker Tournament in Norwich next Month, AK suffered numerous injuries when she was struck by a drunk driver while walking home from school in Sidney February 15th, she told WCDO News that she is excited & ahead of schedule in her ongoing recovery:
(AK McEwan Lomnicki 6-23-23)
AK’s father, Rick Lomnicki said that they have been watching other people playing various sports, but watching his daughter compete after all she has been through will be exciting:
(Rich Lomnicki 6-23-23)
“AK” will be competing at the Norwich Macker July 8th & 9th on 1 of 9 WCDO sponsored teams, she also plans to play in the Ithaca Gus Macker tournament, and 2 other tournaments later this summer.
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High School Graduations are scheduled all over the Southern Tier this weekend. Hancock Commencement exercises began this morning, other districts with ceremonies today include Afton, Andes, Charlotte Valley, Deposit, Downsville, Edmeston, GMU, Laurens, Milford, Morris, South Kortright, Schenevus, Unatego & Windsor. Saturday Graduation ceremonies will include Sidney, Bainbridge Guilford, Norwich, Oneonta, Delaware Academy, Greene, Harpursville, Oxford Academy, Unadilla Valley, Sherburne Earlville & Walton. 2 area district will hold their ceremonies on Sunday, they are Cooperstown & Worcester.
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State Police today announced that Troopers issued 20,952 total traffic tickets during the special “Speed Week” traffic enforcement campaign, from Monday, June 12 to Sunday, June 18 Troopers issued 10,478 tickets for speeding, Statewide, 172 people were arrested for DWI, State Police also responded to 175 personal injury crashes, including two fatal crashes. At Troop C, officers issued 1567 tickets, with 927 for speeding.
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The State Comptroller’s Office audited the Afton Central School District, , they found that the Afton Board and District officials did not effectively manage the District’s fund balance, so they levied more taxes than needed to fund operations and were not transparent with taxpayers. The Board annually overestimated appropriations by an average of $1.1 million or 7%. The District incurred $63,561 in unnecessary interest and other associated costs for the issuance of bonds to purchase school buses. The Comptrollers office recommended adopting realistic budgets, Reduce surplus fund balance to comply with the statutory limit to benefit taxpayers. District officials agreed with our recommendations and indicated they will take corrective action, the full report can be found at osc.state.ny.us.
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State Police arrested 35 year old Heather Wrench of Coventry, for Criminal Possession of a Weapon, Grand Larceny & Petit Larceny, after a trooper and a Chenango County Deputy were dispatched to a report of a trespass on State Highway 206 in the town of Coventry. Wrench allegedly entered a vehicle and removed items, including a pistol, from a vehicle, she is also accused of trespassing several other area properties. Wrench was arrested and was remanded to the Chenango County Jail without bail.
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The Chenango County Historical Society will hold their annual Summer Barn Party fundraiser, to be held from 6:00 to 8:30 PM on Thursday, June 29 at 41 Rexford Street in Norwich. More information is available at (607) 334-9227.
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A.M. NEWS Friday 6-23-23
The Dick’s Open Golf Tournament Pro rounds begin today through Sunday at the En-Joie Golf Course in Endicott. The concert to be held their tonight features Country Music Star Kenny Chesney.
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Delaware County Public Health Services and Friends of Recovery- Delaware Otsego will be sponsoring a Science of Addiction and Recovery 1 day training on June 30, 2023 from 9am to 4pm at 84 Main St. Delhi. The deadline to register is June 23, 2023. For more information or to register, contact Kyle LaFever at (607) 376-4388.
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On Saturday at 2pm, the Greater Oneonta Historical Society will tour the Fairchild Mansion, which is now the Masonic Lodge at 322 Main Street. George Fairchild was a U.S. Congressman and the first chairman of the Board of IBM, he was also the founder of Fairchild Camera, Fairchild Aviation, and funded the founding of Fairchild Semiconductor. The tour is by donation and reservations are not required.
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]]>32 year-old Courtni Baker of Sidney pleaded guilty in Delaware County Court today to charges relating to a February 15th accident, where Baker struck 14-year-old Anielle “AK” McEwan-Lomnicki as she was walking home from Sidney middle school. Delaware County Acting District Attorney Shawn Smith told WCDO news about the verdict:
(DA Shawn Smith 5-22-23)
Baker registered a .24 blood alcohol content, three times the legal limit at the time of her arrest, Smith said that Baker faces 4 to 12 years in prison at her sentencing on September 25th.
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49-year-old Hasaan Coston of Binghamton was found guilty in Broome County Court on 3 felony drug possession charges related to two separate raids by members of Broome County’s Special Investigations Unit Task Force. Officers executed the 1st search warrant on July 29, 2021, and recovered cocaine, crack cocaine, $1200 cash and drug paraphernalia, at the 2nd search on August 4, 2022, in Endicott, officers seized more cocaine, crack cocaine and $1260 cash, Coston could face over 25 years in jail upon sentencing later this year.
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Delaware County Sheriff’s Deputies, State Police and the Village of Delhi Police Department, responded May 14th to a report of a Physical Domestic in Progress in the Town of Meredith. 35-year-old James Twito of Meredith, allegedly engaged another person in a physical domestic dispute where he is accused of obstructing the breathing of the victim, he was charged with Unlawful Imprisonment, Criminal Obstruction of Breathing, 3rd degree Assault & Criminal Mischief , Twito was arraigned in the Town of Delhi Court where he was remanded to the Delaware County Jail on $5,000 cash or $10,000 in secured bond.
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The New York Farm Bureau announced support today for Governor Hochul’s request to the federal government to expedite work visas for migrants who have been properly processed and who want to work on farms in New York State. There is a lengthy tradition of migrant workers on New York State farms, Farm Bureau officials stated that the State Department of Agriculture and Markets along with Cornell’s Agricultural Workforce Development program are working to rectify the situation, the latest action would just be a temporary one and Washington officials must act to come up with a permanent solution to all angles of the immigration issue.
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The State Department of Health today issued updated advisories for the consumption of fish from waterbodies in the State. The most notable update this year is the release of a new Catskill Region advisory, which includes the Cannonsville & Pepacton reservoirs in Delaware County, The Advisory is for a “Sensitive population”, which includes people who may bear children and children under 15; the fish in question include rainbow, brook & brown trout. More information about the advisories is available at health.ny.gov.
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Otsego County Sheriff’s Office aarested 28 year old Joseph Spataro of Otego following a welfare check investigation in the Town of Oneonta. Spataro was chargeedd with Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance, DWI, Unlicensed Operator, Driving While Ability Impaired by Drugs & Aggravated Unlicensed Operation of a mtoro vehicle, Spataro is accused of operating a motor vehicle while impaired and in possession of drugs, he was issued an appearance ticket for the Oneonta Town Court on a later date.
A.M. NEWS MONDAY 5-22-23
The Otsego County Sheriff’s Office arrested 48 year old Richard Sherman of Guilford following a motor vehicle accident on State Highway 51 in the Town of Morris. Sherman was arrested for Driving While Intoxicated , Speed not reasonable and prudent, Failure to Keep Right among other charges, Sherman will appear in Town of Morris Court on May 22, 2023 at 3:00pm.
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State Police in Troop C Headquarters are hosting child safety seat checks on June 5 and June 7 from 3:00 to 8:00 PM. Appointments are not necessary but are preferred. Please schedule an appointment or leave a message with Troop C Traffic at (607)561-7604.
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SUNY Oneonta held their 134th commencement ceremonies Saturday. The class of 2023 was honored with three separate graduation ceremonies at the Dewar Arena in the Alumni Field House. Also, Over 250 students participated in the 91st commencement ceremonies at Hartwick College Saturday morning.
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A Red Cross Blood Drive will be held in Sidney today. The drive will be held from 1:00 to 6:00 PM at the Sidney American Legion Post 183, at 22 Union Street. To make an appointment, download the American Red Cross Blood Donor App, visit RedCrossBlood.org, call 1-800-RED CROSS.
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]]>The Survey Team at the National Weather Service in Binghamton confirmed that there was an EF2 tornado in Sullivan County Saturday evening, with estimated maximum wind speed of 115 mph, it had a path of nearly 10 miles and a maximum width of 300 yards. A tornado touched down north of Jeffersonville, along Callicoon Center Road, damaging trees, it moved north, where with damage to trees & structures, including a 180 foot truss tower that collapsed, The tornado continued north to the Roscoe area with uprooted trees, & some damage to structures along Dutch Hill Road, it lifted as it approached Rockland. More information is available at weather.gov/bgm.
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Bainbridge’s Regatta Row Art Exhibition will have Adirondack style canoe paddle chairs and 5 child size chairs along with student painted mini paddles made by local artists. Jericho Arts Council Spokesperson Rachel Hares explains:
(Rachel Hares 4-25-23)
The chairs will be on display tomorrow at the Bainbridge Town Hall, at 15 North Main Street, those who would like to View & bid on all the art online can do so starting Saturday at jerichoarts.com and Regatta Row Facebook page, prior to the auction in May.
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The annual Sidney Veterans Memorial Park fundraising Golf Tournament will be held June 10th at the Sidney Golf & Country Club, event organizer Tom Ruff explains:
(Tom Ruff 4-25-23)
Those who would like to sign up a team can contact Ruff at 518-256-7899, or at the Sidney Golf & Country Club.
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Delaware County Sheriff’s office arrested 61 year old Fredrick Hallstead of McDonough for Criminal Mischief and Harassment. Deputies responded on March 12th, in the Town of Walton for a Domestic Incident in progress, where Hallstead is accused of making physical contact with a female victim, in an effort to prevent her from calling 911. Deputies subsequently located Hallstead recently and issued a summons to appear at Town of Walton Court at a later date.
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Stomp returns to the Forum Theater in Binghamton the next 2 nights with some tickets still available, Tina Niles of NAC Entertainment explains:
(Tina Niles 4-25-23)
Tickets are available at the Box Office or at BroadwayInBinghamton.com.
A.M. NEWS TUESDAY 4-25-23
Delsa McEwan, the mother of Anielle “AK” McEwan Lomnicki, has filed a lawsuit In Delaware County Supreme Court, against a number of people in relation to the February 15th incident where the 14 year old was run down by a car allegedly driven by Courtni Baker in Sidney. The lawsuit is filed against Baker, Baker’s mother Theresa Baker who owned the vehicle, plus Ermeti’s Community Lounge, owner Joe Ermeti and bar manager Laura Huntley. The Lawsuit claims that Community Lounge Staff should have stopped serving Courtni Baker that day, That Theresa Baker should not have allowed her daughter to operate the car while intoxicated, and against Baker for driving the vehicle into the Sidney Teenager. The case was filed on April 18th.
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Delaware County Sheriff’s office arrested 31 year old Kyle Oakley of South Kortright for Criminal Mischief & Burglary. Deputies were dispatched to a Burglary Report in the Town of Stamford, between the dates of February 23rd and March 8th, someone had forced entry into a residence and intentionally damaged property, Deputies recovered evidence which was sent to the State Police Crime Lab for analysis, Deputies later received a positive DNA match with Oakley, an arrest warrant was issued & Oakley was located & was taken into custody last week, Oakley was arraigned in the Town of Middletown Court where he was remanded to the Delaware County Jail in lieu of $5,000 cash or $10,000 in secured bond.
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The Delaware County Department of Public Works will be closing County Route 16 in the Town of Delhi to through traffic beginning at 7:00 This morning to replace a culvert pipe between the two intersections with Fleming Road. On Wednesday, the road will be closed in the Town of Franklin between the northern intersection with Fleming Road and Douglas Hall Road. The traveling public should seek alternate routes.
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The American Red Cross is holding 2 local blood drives today, as blood supplies remain critically low. In Sidney, a blood drive will be held from 1:00 to 6:00 PM at the Sidney Elks Lodge at 104 River Street. A blood drive is also being held in Delhi from 10:30 AM to 4:30 PM at the SUNY Delhi Farrell Student & Community Center, at 454 Delhi Drive. To make an appointment for the Sidney & Delhi Blood Drives, download the Red Cross Blood Donor App, visit RedCrossBlood.org or call 1-800-RED CROSS.
]]>Back on February 15th, Sidney Central School District 8th grader Anielle McEwan-Lomnicki, better known as AK, was struck by a suspected Drunk driver while walking home from school. Since that time, AK has been at a Syracuse area hospital recuperating from her injuries, she returned home April 4th, on Wednesday, AK was a special guest on The Nate Lull Podcast, she said that she is grateful for the support she has received since returning home from the hospital:
(AK 1)
AK told Nate Lull that she has been working hard with her medical team to get back to her daily activities, she said that her favorite sport, basketball, is a major motivating factor for her:
(AK 3)
The full Nate Lull podcast interview with AK McEwan Lomnicki is available 24/7 on wcdosports.com, natelull.com or on any podcast app, WCDO will also air the interview in its entirety following the news at 10:00 AM Friday Morning.
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Several area fire companies responded shortly after 12:00 Noon today for the report of a Brush Fire in the vicinity of 237 Main Street in Delhi. The fire was under control in about 30 minutes, fire companies remind are residents that the gusty winds & low humidity make conditions favorable for brush fires, the state’s burn ban remains in effect until May 14th.
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The Broome County Special Investigations Unit Task Force executed a search warrant at 75 Shelby Street in Johnson City, they arrested 39-year-old Michael Buchanan was arrested, on charges of Criminal possession of firearm, criminal possession of a Controlled substance, Police seized 4.5 grams of Fentanyl, 12.5 grams of Methamphetamine as well as scales, packaging materials, loaded handguns, including one reported stolen from the State of Kentucky plus 3 large capacity ammunition feeding devices. Buchanan was arraigned and remanded to the Broome County Jail pending further court action.
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Broome County Sheriff’s Office announced that an Open Competitive Exam is scheduled for those interested in becoming Corrections Officers. The Deadline to file is May 12th & the exam will take place on June 30th. More information is available at the Sheriff’s Office page at gobroomecounty.com. or by calling 607-778-3076.
A.M. NEWS Thursday 4-13-23
The Virginia State Police charged 34 year old Michael Davis for abduction, and is now in Police custody. Davis was charged in connection with the April 5th abduction of Tatiana David Ithaca, which ended in a shootout with Police in Virginia, and with David deceased outside the Davis vehicle. Davis was shot by police after he opened fire on them as they responded when he crashed his vehicle following a 25 mile chase.
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Hundreds of Firefighters were battling a brush fire on the Otsego County-Schoharie County border yesterday afternoon at about 3:00 PM. Firefighters stayed at the scene into the night, the fire is believed to have started from a spark from a train, and spread quickly due to gusty winds & dry weather conditions. A command post is being opened this morning at the Richmondville Elementary school, The fire stretched about 6 miles.
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Otsego County Sheriff’s Office arrested 42 year old Bobbi Jo Worden of Oneonta on charges of Burglary, Trespassing & Petty Larceny for allegedly stealing numerous items from an Oneonta Business, and for trespassing at that businesses numerous times. Worden was taken to the Otsego County Jail where she was held without bail.
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]]>The Norwich City Police Department and Norwich Fire Department responded to a residence in the City of Norwich where 4 victims of an apparent drug overdose were located. One victim was found outside the residence unconscious and the two others were found unconscious inside. The fourth victim was found deceased inside the residence. The City Police Department wants to make everyone aware of the possibility of an unusual type of narcotic being sold, laced with something that could have irreversible effects on the person using it. Anyone with information on the source of the illegal narcotics, should call the Norwich Police T.I.P.S line on 607-334-8477.
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“AK” McEwan Lomnicki has been released from a Syracuse hospital & has returned home to Sidney. McEwan Lomnicki was struck by a vehicle while walking home from School on February 15th, 31 year old Courtni Baker of Sidney was charged with Aggravated DWI, & numerous other charges for the incident. The 14 year Sidney Basketball enthusiast has a long recovery ahead of her & she expressed gratitude for the community support following the incident, AK’s Father, Rich Lomnicki told WCDO News that she still requires rest at home and it is unknown when she can return to Sidney Middle School.
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State Police & The Governor’s Office announced that More than 50 school districts across the state received ‘swatting’ threats today including in Central New York, Long Island, the Southern Tier and the North Country. “Swatting threats are false and are intended to cause panic, the State Police will investigate all of the threats and work closely with all levels of law enforcement to identify the perpetrators & prosecute them.
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30 year old Robert Grice of Deposit, appeared in the Deposit Town Court on Monday and pleaded guilty to Criminal Obstruction of Breathing. Grice allegedly put his hands around the throat of a 22-year-old female victim during the course of a domestic dispute. The Court imposed over $650 in fines & fees, Grice was also required to provide a sample of his DNA for inclusion in the State DNA databank, the Court also issued a 1-year full stay away order of protection mandating, he was also sentenced to a one-year conditional discharge, if he violates the terms, he is subject to being re-sentenced to 364 days incarceration.
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The Broome County Sheriff’s Office announced that A routine traffic stop in Binghamton led to an arrest on an outstanding warrant for aggravated harassment charges on Sunday. Deputies observed a parked car at a gas Station and identified the driver as 26 year old Jesse Roberts who was wanted for aggravated harassment for allegedly sending threatening messages to a woman and was taken into custody. Roberts had been driving with an open container of alcohol and six open license suspensions for failing to appear in court for traffic tickets, he faces a number of additional charges and was taken to the Broome County Correction Facility for arraignment.
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Tickets went on sale for the new season at the Chenango River Theatre in Greene, Artistic Director Zach Curtis told WCDO News about the upcoming season:
(Zach Curtis 4-4-23)
Curtis said that “Lend Me A Tenor” will start June 2nd, followed by “Shout The Musical” July 14th, “Wait Until Dark”, August 2nd & “The Mountaintop” on October 6th, tickets are available at chenangorivertheatre.org, also the “1 Night Stand” series shows will be announced later this month.
A.M. NEWS TUESDAY 4-4-23
State Police responded Friday to a fatal motor vehicle crash a the intersection of State Route 51 and Flatiron Road in the Town of Butternuts. The investigation determined that a vehicle was traveling north on State Route 8 in the Town of Guilford when a Chenango County Sheriff’s Deputy attempted a traffic stop, the driver of the vehicle failed to comply, continuing into the Otsego County Town of Butternuts, where the driver left the roadway and crashed into several trees. The driver of the vehicle was 17 year old Christian Enrico and a passenger, 16 year old Liam Pakonis both of Wayne, New Jersey were pronounced deceased at the scene. The Office of the New York State Attorney General responded to the scene and is handling the investigation.
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Broome County District Attorney’s Office reported that 28 year old John Flora of Windsor pleaded guilty to Burglary in Broome County Court Monday. In September of 2021, Flora broke into a residence on Beaver Lake Road and stole personal property of the owner, he faces 3 1/2 years in Jail when sentenced on June 30th.
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The Binghamton Rumble Ponies “Meet the Ponies” dinner will be held tonight at the Downtown Holiday Inn in Binghamton. The Rumble Ponies open the 2023 season on the road against the Portland Sea Dogs on Thursday April 6th, with the home opener on Tuesday, April 11th against the Somerset Patriots at 6:35 PM.
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]]>Delaware County District Attorney’s Office announced that 31 year old Courtni Baker of Sidney was arraigned today on Grand Jury Charges in Delaware County Court . A Grand Jury handed up a 10 count indictment, including charges of vehicular assault, Aggravated vehicular assault, 2nd degree Assault, And Escape, for the February 15th incident where Baker is accused of Hitting 14 year old Anielle AK McEwan Lomnicki on Sharon Street in Sidney as she was walking home from school. Baker is accused of driving while intoxicated at the time of the incident, with a BAC of higher than .18, she is being held in the Delaware County Jail on $100,000 cash bail, $250,000 secured bond or $1 Million Dollars Partially Secured bond.
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35-year-old Bruice Jeffrey of North Norwich was arrested by Chenango County Sheriff’s Deputies Sunday after allegedly stealing more than $130,000 from an elderly person. The arrest followed an investigation into Jeffrey started by a claim from the Chenango County Social Services Department, he is accused of stealing from an elderly person’s account for 7 years. Jeffrey was charged with 3 counts of grand larceny and petty larceny, he was released with an appearance ticket and is due back in court at a later date.
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Delaware County Sheriff’s Office arrested Timothy Taylor of Franklin for Endangering Welfare of a Child and Sexual Misconduct Taylor is accused of performing sexual acts with a 15 year old female in the Town of Hancock. Taylor was processed and issued an appearance ticket to appear before the Hancock Town Court at a later date.
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Lisa Driscoll of Harpersfield has joined the Delaware County Board of Supervisors. Driscoll replaces long time Supervisor James Eisel , who retired recently due to health issues.
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Governor Hochul announced that approximately $110 million was awarded to 86 projects through 2 grant programs to improve water quality across the state. Locally, Town of Chenango will get $10 Million for a new treatment technology at its Northgate facility to help meet State standards and improve water quality by reducing the amount of phosphorus entering the Chenango River and the Chesapeake Bay watershed.
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State Attorney General Letitia James released a list today of the top complaints her office has received in 2022. Over 5200 complaints were received regarding price gouging defective merchandise & poor customer service at retail establishments, over 3,000 were landlord or tenants complaints. over 2800 were about credit, banking & mortgage issues, over 2700 complaints were about consumer services organizations like COVID testing facilities, dry cleaners, restaurants or movers, and over 2500 for automobile sales & service.
A.M. NEWS TUESDAY 3-7-23
The Broome County District Attorney’s office announced that 53 year old Robert Randolph of Endicott was sentenced after pleading guilty to felony Criminal Possession of a Controlled substance. Randolph was caught with large quantities of methamphetamine, heroin, and fentanyl when police raided his motel room in Endicott in August of 2021, he was on parole from a previous conviction for selling methamphetamine. Randolph was sentenced to 5 years in state prison followed by 2 years of post-release supervision.
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59-year-old Norman O’Neil of Endwell died Friday after he fell through the ice when he and 1 other man were ice fishing in Tioga County. Tioga County Sheriff’s Office and area EMT’s & Firefighters responded, The sheriff’s office reported that the other man fell through the ice but pulled himself out but was unable to save O’Neill, First responders pulled O’Neil out, he was not responsive attempts to resuscitate O’Neil, he died from the injuries he sustained. The unidentified companion was taken to an area hospital & was treated and released.
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Commerce Chenango announced that they are looking for nominations for their Board of Directors. The requirements stipulate that a board member must be a Chamber member in good standing; Must agree to accept the responsibility of directorship; Must agree to represent the best interest of the membership of Commerce Chenango. Nominations should be received by March 15, 2023, at 5:00 pm, more information is available at 607-334-1400 or by email: info@chenangony.org.
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The Chenango County Sheriff’s Office is looking to sponsor children ages 9 to 12 to attend the 2023 New York State Sheriff’s Camp this summer. The camp will be held from Sunday, June 25th, to Saturday, July 1st, on Keuka Lake in Yates County. Parents with interested children can submit an application to smithkr@co.chenango.ny.us by March 10th.
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The Unadilla Chamber of Commerce is accepting nominations for the 2023 Business & Commitment to Community/Good Neighbor Awards. The awards will be given out at the chamber’s annual dinner on June 11th, nominations must be received by March 30, more information is available by email to Unadillachamber@yahoo.com.
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]]>It’s been 2 weeks since Anielle “AK” McEwan Lomnicki was hit by a car while walking home from from school in Sidney, an area fundraiser for medical expenses incurred by the family, while AK remains in a Syracuse Hospital, was conducted this past weekend, spokesperson Kim Ayres told WCDO News how much was raised:
(Kim Ayres 3-1-23)
Ayres said that the effort was spearheaded by Mike Gavin, his businesses, Gavin’s Pizza, Machos Tacos & Tina’s Old Fashioned Donuts, with Sidney Joe’s Pizza, Club 55, Trackside Dining, Beez Kneez, Roasted Coffee House and Houndstooth also participated, more fundraisers are being planned and all legitimate fundraising efforts will be posted on the “AK Strong” Facebook page. Meanwhile, AK continues to be in a medically induced coma but has been slow but stead improvement, according to her father, Rich Lomnicki.
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The Tri-Town Theatre will be performing the John Steinbeck Classic “Of Mice & Men” on Saturday March 11th at 7:30 PM & Sunday at 2:00 PM at the Sidney High School Auditorium, Theatre Spokesperson George Wells and Sarah Norris visited the WCDO Studios this morning & talked about the next production:
(George Wells Sarah Norris 3-1-23)
Tickets & information about other productions are available through a link on the TriTownTheatre.com website.
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The Broome County Sheriff’s Office announced that Kimberly Ferguson is wanted on a warrant for Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance and was last known to frequent the Norwich area. Ferguson is described as a white female, 5’6, weighing 140 pounds, with blue eyes and brown hair. Tips may be submitted on our website at gobroomecounty.com/sheriff/warrants or Sheriff’s Office Warrant tip line at (607) 778-1911.
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The Delaware County District Attorney’s Office announced that 26 year old Brandin VanTassel of Walton, New York pleaded guilty in Delaware County Court to Criminal Contempt, for intentionally violating an order of protection, by contacting the protected party by sending multiple text messages. VanTassel will be sentenced to serve 6 months in the Delaware County Correctional Facility, followed by 5 years of probation supervision. Sentencing is scheduled for March 27, at 9:00 A.M.
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A.M. NEWS Wednesday 3-1-23
A.O. Fox Hospital and Bassett Healthcare Network announced today that FoxCare Fitness in Oneonta will be closing permanently as of June 1. Hospital and network leadership reached the decision following an extended period of declining membership and operational challenges, many of which are directly related to the COVID-19 pandemic. The last day of operations at FoxCare Fitness will be May 31.
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Delaware County Public Health will hold a Free Rabies Vaccination Clinic For dogs, cats and ferrets today, from 5:00 to 6:30PM at Colchester Town Garage on River Road in Downsville. More information is available at 607-832-5200 or delawarecountypublichealth.com
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CATS will make its return to the Broome County Forum stage March 1 & 2 at 7:30 PM. Tickets can be purchased at www.BroadwayInBinghamton.com or in person at the Arena Box Office.
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The Masonville Town Board meeting originally scheduled for tonight at 7:30 PM at the Masonville Town Offices, has been postponed. The mext meeting will be held on March 15th at 7:30 PM.
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]]>The State Department of Labor announced the adoption of the final farm labor overtime regulations, the phased-in, gradual reduction in the overtime pay threshold will begin on January 1, 2024, with the threshold set at 56 hours. The process will continue with the overtime threshold limit reducing by 4 hours every other year until reaching 40 hours in 2032. More information is available at dol.ny.gov/farm-laborers-wage-board.
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The Delaware County Board of Supervisors announced that a joint mission of the U.S. military and the County of Delaware with an Innovative Readiness Training mission, which will be bringing medical professionals to Walton July 11th through the 19th, providing several free medical, dental & Veterinary services. Director of Delaware County Planning & Watershed Affairs, Shelly Johnson-Bennett told WCDO News about the effort:
(Shelly Johnson-Bennett 2-22-23)
Volunteers will be needed to help with the event anyone interested can call Delaware Opportunities at (607) 746-1600.
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AK Strong T-shirts are being made available locally, to assist with the medical expenses for the McEwan-Lomnicki as their daughter Anielle, also known as “AK”, remains at a Syracuse Hospital with injuries sustained when she was hit by a car while walking home from school last week. Local businessman Mike Gavin explains:
(Mike Gavin 2-22-23)
Gavin said that area restaurants will be donating 10% of their sales to the family, Beez Kneez will participate on Friday, Gavin’s, Machos Taco’s, Tina Old Fashioned Donuts, Sidney Joe’s Pizzeria, Trackside Dining & Club 55 will be participating on Saturday. Donations are also being accepted through the Trinity O’Connor Foundation, more information is available by contact Kim Ayres at 607-226-8031.
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A mix of Winter Precipitation is expected this evening & over night, Local Meteorologist Rich Townsend comments:
(Townsend 2-22-23)
The National Weather Service has a Winter Weather Advisory in effect through tomorrow Morning.
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Governor Kathy Hochul appeared in Johnson City this morning, she outlined some of the executive Budget Proposal Items that are aimed at helping the Southern Tier:
(Governor Hochul 2-22-23)
Governor Hochul discussed $1.4 billion in School Aid for the Southern Tier, Over $151 million in DOT capital projects, $50 million for Binghamton University to continue establishing a hub for battery technology innovation, Over $23 million for local paving and pothole repairs, $963,000 for Broome Community College, $16 million for addiction services funding, the 227 Billion Dollar Budget proposal is being negotiated & is due on April 1st.
A.M. NEWS WEDNESDAY 2-22-23
The New York State Department of Health today issued the results of its latest annual chronic disease public opinion survey. According to the survey, 88% think heroin use is a serious public health problem, 90% site the use or misuse of prescription opioids, 92% said childhood obesity, 85% think tobacco use continues to be a major problem, 80% reported issues with health care access, 77% said alcohol consumption & 46% think marijuana are other serious health problems.
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The Downsville Fire Department is hosting a Red Cross blood drive today at their location on State Route 30 from 9:00 AM to 2:00 PM. Appointments can be made at 1-800 RED CROSS, redcrossblood.org or with the Red Cross Blood Donor App.
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]]>Fundraisers are underway with more to come, to help the family of Anielle “AK” McEwan Lomnicki with Medical Expenses associated with AK getting hit by a car while walking home from school last week. AK’s father, Rich Lomnicki told WCDO news this morning how she was doing:
(Rich Lomnicki 2-21-23)
Kim Ayres of the Trinity O’Connor Foundation is helping to coordinate the fundraising efforts for AK’s Family, she said that the Polar Bear Club donated a sizable amount at Saturday Night’s Vigil at Keith Clark Park, which drew over 400 people, She told WCDO News about other efforts getting underway:
(Kim Ayres 2-21-23)
Ayres said that JM Trophies & Specialty Gifts will be making up T-Shirts & donating proceeds, plus Shupperd’s Tack Shop is printing up signs “AK Strong”, all proceeds from that will go to the family, information is available at Shupperd’s Facebook page, also Gavin’s Pizza is collaborating with local restaurants, On Friday, The Beez Kneez will be donating 10% of all sales & on Saturday, Gavin’s, Machos Tacos, Tina’s Old Fashioned Donuts, Sidney Joe’s Pizzeria, Trackside Dining, Club 55 Restaurant will be donating 10% of all sales to AK and her family.
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Broome County Sheriff Fred Akshar announced that they will be offering a $5,000 sign-on bonus for all new Corrections Officers hired as lateral transfers. Sheriff Akshar stated that they were down by about 40 full time positions in the Corrections Department, Eligibility for this bonus is open to certified Corrections Officers currently employed at local correctional facilities across New York State. Under the new incentive, qualified lateral transfers will receive an extra $2,500 in their first paycheck with the Broome County Sheriff’s Correctional Facility, plus other incentives, The incentive was approved by the Broome County Legislature on February 16th.
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Broome County DA Michael Korchak announced that 45 year old Alan Holmes of Binghamton pleaded guilty to felony Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance. In June of 2021, Holmes was arrested following a Traffic Stop in Johnson City, he was a passenger in the vehicle & was found to be in possession of a large quantity of fentanyl, plus he was out on parole for a 2019 narcotics conviction. Holmes will be sentenced to 5 years in New York State prison on May 17th.
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CDO Workforce announced a Job fair at their Sidney Office in the Civic Center at 21 Liberty Street tomorrow from 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM. Job Openings are currently available at the US Postal Service, Cullman Child Development Center, Unalam & Chobani among others, more information is available at 607-832-5776.
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The State Department of Labor reminds New Yorkers that a new law is in effect that reiterates the State’s commitment to protecting workers who take legally protected absences from work. The law clarifies that it is illegal for employers to threaten, penalize, discriminate, or retaliate against employees for using absences protected under federal, state, or local law, including time off covered by New York State Paid Family Leave and New York State Paid Sick Leave. More information is available at dol.ny.gov/retaliation.
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A.M. NEWS TUESDAY 2-21-23
The Norwich City Police Department is investigating an assault on 1 of their officer on Monday at 8:47 p.m. at the Stewart’s Shop on State Route 23 in the Town of Norwich. The suspect driver is a White Male wearing a baseball cap, with a black Puma Hoody, dark pants and was seen driving a white Chevy sedan with out of state plates, traveling east on Route 23 toward South New Berlin. The passenger with the suspect was Jesse Dann. Anyone with information should call the Police Department at 607-334-1212.
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Bainbridge Chamber of Commerce will hold their next meeting this morning at 7:30, the meeting will be held at the back of Bob’s Diner, members & directors are urged to attend.
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]]>A Group of Sidney residents & businesses are teaming up for a fundraiser Saturday at 6:30 at Keith Clark Park for the family of Anielle “AK” McEwan-Lomnicki, who was severely injured when she was hit by a vehicle while walking home from school Wednesday afternoon. Kim Ayres is one of the organizers, she told WCDO News how the money will be raised:
(Kim Ayres 2-17-23)
Ayres also said that the Polar Bear Jump at Good year Lake will be held tomorrow and a portion of those funds raised will also go to AK’s family. Also, At the MAC basketball championship games tonight at UV they will be taking up a collection for the Sidney student who was hit by a car earlier this week. Anielle McEwan-Lomnicki. BG Boys play Delhi at 5 and Unatego Girls take on Greene at 7:30.
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The Sidney Chamber of Commerce has scheduled an event in March as well as the annual Hometown Day parade & activities in June, Chamber President Teri Schunk appeared live on the WCDO Morning show:
(Teri Schunk 2-17-23)
Schunk also said that the 4 Towns Forward organization will beholding their annual Yard Sale April 29th at locations in Afton, Bainbridge, Sidney & Unadilla again this year.
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The Broome County Sheriff’s Office is currently looking for Dominic Howe, on an outstanding warrant for Grand Larceny, Criminal possession of a Weapon & 3rd Degree Rape. Howe id described as a white male, 5’11” tall, 130 pounds, with brown hair & brown eyes, anyone with information is asked to call the Broome County Sheriff’s Office tip line at (607) 778-1196.
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Delaware County Sheriff’s Office arrested 51 year old Donna Dalton of Davenport for driving with a suspended registration. Deputies were patrolling Sunday on State Highway 10 in the Town of Delhi, they conducted a traffic stop & charged Dalton with Operating a Motor Vehicle with a Suspended/Revoked Registration, she was released and is scheduled to appear in the Town of Delhi Court at a later date.
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Delaware County Sheriff’s Deputies arrested 38 year-old Danielle Pitre of Staten Island, for driving with a suspended registration. Deputies were patrolling Sunday on State Highway 30 in the Town of Colchester, they conducted a traffic stop, Pitre was charged with Operating a Motor Vehicle with a Suspended/Revoked Registration, Failure to turn in License Plate to DMV, Failure to Notify DMV of Address Change, and several other lesser charges, she was released on the traffic tickets and is scheduled to appear in the Town of Colchester Court at a later date to answer the charge.
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See New York’s premiere Billy Joel Tribute Band, The Downtown Men, in the Martin W. Kappel Theater Saturday, February 18, 2023. Doors open at 6:30, show starts at 7, tickets are available at ChenangoArts.org, by calling 607-336-2787, or at the door.
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More than 330 guests attended the Friends of Bassett Healthcare Network’s fifth annual Valentine’s Soirée at the Otesaga Resort & Hotel in Cooperstown on Saturday, February 11. The event raised over $250,000 in support of Bassett’s School-Based Health and Dental Program.
A.M. NEWS FRIDAY 2-17-23
Delaware County District Attorney’s office announced that 40 year old Denise Wells of Herkimer was convicted of 1 count of Driving While Ability Impaired by Drugs, in the Town of Delhi Court Wednesday. Wells was charged after driving erratically through Delhi on December 12th of last year, she eventually drove off the road on State Highway 10, she was under the influence of heroin. Wells was sentenced to a 1-year conditional discharge, she was also ordered to undergo a drug and alcohol evaluation, attend and complete an Impaired Driver Program, and attend a Victim Impact Panel, her license was revoked for 6 months, and she was ordered to pay $900 in fines & fees.
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U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand laid out some of her priorities in the Senate, as the negotiations continue for the next 5 year farm bill, which she said will address rising concerns about inflationary food prices, supply chain issues & millions GOING Without sufficient food:
(Gillibrand 2-16-23)
Gillibrand said that the last Farm Bill came in 2018 before the pandemic, which has added or changed many of the provisions from previous Farm bills out of necessity due to new problems that the pandemic created or expanded.
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Broome County Sheriff’s Office deputies responded to a physical injury domestic dispute in the Town of Union. 66 year old Brian Sanks of the Town of Union, had attempted to smother his Girlfriend in her sleep, threatened to shoot her with a pistol, and threatened to use a taser baton on her. Sanks was taken into custody by deputies and an Extreme Risk Protection Order was subsequently issued, several weapons & drug paraphernalia were removed from Sanks residence. Sanks was charged with Criminal Possession of a Weapon, Criminal obstruction of breathing or blood circulation, he was arraigned and has remained in custody of the Broome County Sheriff’s Office.
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The Binghamton Black Bears Hockey Team are hosting the 23rd Annual Career Fair tonight, prior to tonight’s game against Danbury. The career fair will be held at the Arena from 2:30 to 5:30 PM.
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An American Red Cross Blood Drive is being held today at the Sidney High School, Appointments can be made with the Red Cross Blood Donor App, or by calling 1-800-Red Cross.
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]]>The Village of Sidney Police Department responded yesterday afternoon at about 2:50 PM, to the report of a unconscious female lying in the middle of Sunset Avenue. Police were advised that the female had been struck by a vehicle, 14 year old Anielle McEwan-Lomnicki was transported to Wilson Medical Center in Johnson City & was transferred to SUNY Upstate University Hospital in Syracuse where she remains in stable but critical condition with bleeding & pressure on the brain, an upper spine fracture & fractured ribs according to family, The driver, 31 year old Courtni Baker of Sidney left the scene and returned a short time later, she was charged with Aggravated DWI, with a BAC of .18 or higher, plus DWI, Leaving the scene of a personal injury accident, Reckless Driving, Vehicular Assault & Escape for allegedly attempting to leave the Police Station, along with several other lesser charges. Baker was arraigned in the Town of Delhi court where she was remanded to the Delaware County Jail without bail. The investigation is ongoing which could result in more charges being filed.
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The Otsego County Health Department reported that a bat from Otego tested positive for Rabies. 1 vaccinated cat was exposed & will recieve a rabies booster, there was no human exposure. More information about rabies is available at 547-4230 or at otsegocounty.com.
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The Tioga County Sheriff’s Office has confirmed that 3 people died and another was hospitalized after they were hit by a car in Newark Valley Wednesday afternoon. According to the Sheriff’s Office, an 18-year-old man was driving south on State Route 38 around 11:20 am Wednesday and hit 4 pedestrians walking on the shoulder. 66 year old John Stephens, 25 year old Kurtis Acker & 52 year old Doreen Wood were killed, a 27-year-old woman was flown to Upstate Medical Center in Syracuse in critical condition. All 4 pedestrians were from Newark Valley.
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The Broome County District Attorney’s office announced that 37 year old Ronald Bodden of Binghamton pleaded guilty to promoting prison contraband in Broome County Court. Bodden admitted that he possessed methamphetamines while in the County Jail on an unrelated charge, he will serve 2 to 4 years in prison on the new charges starting on March 23rd.
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Commerce Chenango announced that their annual Economic Outlook Breakfast will beheld on March 2nd at the Canasawacta Country Club in Norwich. Key Note Speaker will be Ken Entenmann of NBT Bank, more information is available at commercechenango.com
A.M. NEWS THURSDAY 2-16-23
19 year old Payton Gendron of Conklin was sentenced to life in prison without parole yesterday, for the mass shooting of 10 people in May of 2022 at a Tops grocery store in Buffalo. Gendron pleaded guilty in November to 15 charges, including murder, attempted murder & Domestic Terrorism motivated by Hate in a state court room, today Gendron faces Federal Court action, if convicted on the federal charges, he could face the death penalty.
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State Police arrested 44 year old Rodney Oakley of Plymouth, for Scheming to Defraud, 5 counts of 4th degree Grand Larceny & 8 counts of Petty Larceny. State Police received a report last November that Oakley, who was the town Highway Department Superintendent, was allegedly using town money for his own personal use, it was determined that since December 2020 Oakley allegedly had been using town funds to purchase various car parts, tools and materials for his own personal use, he was issued an appearance for the town of Plymouth Court on February 22nd.
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Governor Kathy Hochul today announced the 2023 dates for Free Freshwater Fishing Days in New York. The requirement for a fishing license is waived during the 6 days this year: February 18 to 19; June 24 to 25; September 23; and November 11. More information is available at dec.ny.gov.
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The Bethel Woods Center for the Arts, is asking for those who attended the original Woodstock Music & Arts festival at that site in 1969, to come forward & share their story. The Center is conducting its “Oral Histories Project” to document the memories of fans who attended the event. Curators from The Museum will be traveling around the country to interview those who attended. The Oral Histories Project began in 2020; over 18,00 stories have been documented. The museum is hoping to get about 4,500 more, More information can be found at Bethelwoodscenter.org.
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