State Police were called yesterday afternoon to Old Barton Road in the town of Barton for a report of a motor vehicle accident involving a pedestrian. A preliminary investigation determined that 77 year old Gloria Phillips of Barton was driving when 4 year old Joanna VanOstrand rode a tricycle into the roadway, it was determined that Phillips was unable to avoid VanOstrand and struck her. VanOstrand died at the scene. The investigation is ongoing.

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41 year old Patrick Ladd of Walton, was convicted in Delaware County Court for Attempted Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance, with intent to sell, Ladd appeared Monday for a conference on his pending indictment, he then pleaded guilty to the charge, he admitted that he possessed 2 grams of methamphetamine and 13 bags of heroin in Walton on December 17, 2023, he also admitted that he planned to sell those drugs. Judge Hubbard ordered Ladd to serve 4 years in state prison and 2 years of post-release supervision. The defendant was remanded to the Delaware County Correctional Facility to begin serving his sentence.

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Chenango County Sheriff’s Office arrested 42 year old Lori Devine & 45 year old Aaron Morgan of Sherburne for multiple counts of Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance and Criminal Use of Drug Paraphernalia, after an investigation into drug activity. Detectives accuse Devine and Morgan of selling Methamphetamine from their apartment in the Village of Sherburne. A search warrant was obtained & Methamphetamine, digital scales, packaging material, US currency, and other items were located & seized, Devine and Morgan were processed and were released on appearance tickets, they are due to appear in the Village of Sherburne Court at a later date.

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Delaware County Sheriffs Deputies responded in December to an address in the Town of Franklin to assist the Delaware County Probation Office with a search of a residence. Deputies secured a quantity of drugs & paraphernalia from 43 year old Ryan Vandeusen of Franklin. Vandeusen was on Probation at the time of the possession, Vandeusen was charged with 2 counts of criminal possession of a controlled substance and criminally using drug paraphernalia, he was released on an appearance ticket returnable to Franklin Town Court at a later date.

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Governor Kathy Hochul announced that beginning on Monday, April 1, New York State veterans and Gold Star Families will have free access to New York State parks, campgrounds, day use areas, historic sites, and recreation areas through the expansion of the Lifetime Liberty Pass Program. More information is available at parks.ny.gov.

.M. NEWS MONDAY 3-27-24

A presentation for the public will be held at the Sidney Library Smart Community Room, regarding the Flood Gauge project that was installed by & monitored by students at the Sidney Central School, after the 2006 flooding. Science Teacher Rich Townsend explains:

(Rich Townsend 3-27-24)

Townsend said that they are also looking for additional sources of funding, as many of the other revenues streams & grants are no longer available. The presentation on the 27th will begin at 6:00 PM.

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Scammers impersonating local banks and other financial institutions are contacting Broome County residents in an effort to obtain account numbers, PIN numbers and other personal information. The Broome County Sheriff’s Office has received several new reports from residents who received phone calls, where the victims are asked to verify their account numbers and PIN, then the scammers transfer funds out of the victim’s account. Residents are reminded to never give out personal financial information over the phone, those who receive scam calls are urged to contact the Broome County Sheriff’s Office at 607-778-1911.

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More Red Cross Blood Drives are scheduled today, 1 from 9 am. – 2 pm., at the DCMO BOCES Harrold Campus, another in Oneonta from 1 pm. – 6 pm. at the Foothills Performing Arts & Civic Center, 24 Market Street, visit RedCrossBlood.org, download the Red Cross Blood Donor App, or call 1-800-RED CROSS.

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On Sunday night, Delaware County Sheriff’s Deputies responded to a one car motor vehicle accident with entrapment on State Highway 357, in the town of Sidney. Deputies arrived on scene and observed that the vehicle left the roadway, struck an embankment, causing the vehicle to rollover, then coming to rest off of the roadway. Deputies made contact with the driver, 65-year-old Lawrence Peloso of Mount Upton. Deputies charged Peloso with DWI, driving with a BAC greater than 0.08%, Moving from lane unsafely, and Speed not Reasonable and Prudent, Peloso was released on tickets returnable to the Town of Sidney Court at a later date.

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The US Department of Veteran’s Affairs announced that all Veterans who were exposed to toxins and other hazards while serving in the military are eligible to enroll directly in VA health care through the recently signed PACT Act. Peter Potter of the VA in Albany told WCDO News that veterans can come to the Albany VA clinic where they are staffed to help eligible vets:

(Peter Potter 3-12-24)

Potter said that Veterans from all branches are eligible, they can go to VA.gov/PACT or call 1-800-MYVA411 to get additional information.

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A presentation for the public will be held at the Sidney Library Smart Community Room, regarding the Flood Gauge project that was installed by & monitored by students at the Sidney Central School, after the 2006 flooding. Science Teacher Rich Townsend explains:

(Rich Townsend 3-12-24)

Townsend said that they are also looking for additional sources of funding, as many of the other revenues streams & grants are no longer available. The presentation on the 27th will begin at 6:00 PM.

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NYSEG is reporting additional success in getting power back on following yesterday’s high winds knocking down tree limbs & power lines, area counties are back on, crews have shifted efforts to Sullivan County where about 1200 were without power this afternoon.

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The State Department of Labor today released preliminary local area unemployment rates for January. The State’s seasonally adjusted unemployment rate decreased from 4.6% in December 2023 to 4.5% in January 2024. Locally, Chenango County had 4.5% unemployment in January, Delaware County had 5.2% & Otsego County had 5.3%.

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Delaware County Board of Elections reminds are voters that the Presidential Primary will be held on Tuesday, April 2 at your usual polling site from 6:00 AM to 9:00 PM. Early Voting by Mail or Absentee ballot applications can be made through the state Board of Elections website at elections.ny.gov/request-ballot & Early Voting at Delaware County Board of Elections, will be from Saturday, March 23 to Saturday, March 30th. More information is available at 607-832-5321

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The Food & Drug Administration announced that some types of ground cinnamon products sold at discount stores are being recalled because of elevated levels of lead. The Cinnamon in questions locally was available at stores like Dollar Tree and Family Dollar, under the Supreme Tradition name, sold by Greenbriar International, of Chesapeake, Virginia, the cinnamon can be returned to the stores for a refund, or should be disposed of, the cinnamon with lead has been pulled from the shelves at the stores in question.

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A.M. NEWS TUESDAY 3-12-24

Guilford Firefighters with assistance from other area departments responded to a report of a basement fire at 427 Ives Settlement Road, which was called in at about 4:30 PM Monday. The basement fire was knocked down quickly, Guilford received assistance from Bainbridge, Sidney & Oxford fire Departments.

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6 people were arrested following a fight at Binghamton High School Monday right after dismissal. 1 student suffered a head injury & was taken to an area hospital.

Craig Ross Jr. pleaded guilty Wednesday to 1st-degree kidnapping and predatory sexual assault of a child, according to the Saratoga County district attorney, and faces 47 years to life in prison. Ross abducted 9 year old Charlotte Sena on September 30th from Moreau Lake State Park, as she was riding her bicycle while picnicking with her family, she disappeared and a search led to Ross 2 days later when state police troopers and an FBI SWAT team stormed a camper Ross was staying in. Rescuers found the girl alive in a cabinet. The guilty plea comes prior to a trial that was scheduled in April, Ross will be sentenced on April 17.

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The Coventry Fire Department EMS is looking to add to their numbers, they will hold a basic Life Support class tomorrow, Spokesman Kyle Button Explains:

(Kyle Button 2-23-24)

More information is available at coventryems.org or by calling 607-656-4060.

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Tri Town Theatre will perform the Tony award winning comedy, GOD OF CARNAGE, starting tonight in Sidney, George Wells of Tri-Town Theater told WCDO about this 2009 comedy:

(George Wells 2-15-24)

Tickets for TriTown Theatre’s production of “God Of Carnage” are on sale at TritownTheatre.com and will also be available at the door. The Shows are tonight & tomorrow night at 7:30PM and a Sunday Matinee at 2:00 PM at the Sidney High School auditorium, more information is also available on their Facebook page.

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The Sidney United Way will be holding a fundraiser in Sidney this Sunday at Awestruck Ciders, spokesperson Teri Schunk explains:

(Teri Schunk 2-23-24)

The event will run from 2:00 to 5:00 PM at Awestruck in Sidney Industrial Park.

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A.M. NEWS FRIDAY 2-23-24

The case of Ganesh “Remy” Ramsaran of New Berlin will go national tonight on NBC’s Dateline. Ramsaran pleaded guilty last year to a reduced charge of Manslaughter fro the 2012 killing of his wife Jennifer Ramsaran. NBC Dateline will devote 2 hours of airtime to the the case entitled “The Perfect Life,” at 9:00 PM, More information and a preview for the episode can be found at nbcnews.com.

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Karim Dobson of Johnson City pleaded guilty as a second felony offender to Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance in Broome County Court. On October 17, Dobson was found in possession of more than 4 ounces of fentanyl following a traffic stop on I-81 in the Town of Kirkwood. Dobson admitted to possession with the intent to sell, he is due back for sentencing on May 12, where he is expected to be sentenced to 6 years in State Prison, followed by 3 years of post-release supervision.

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The Jericho Arts Council present the Country Gentlemen Tribute Band Saturday Night in the Bainbridge Town Hall Theatre, spokesman Phil Wade explains:

(Phil Wade 2-23-24)

Wade said that in the Gallery will be the works of Colette Aimee, tickets for the concert can be reserved by calling 607-288-3882.

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A Red Cross Blood drive is being held in Oneonta today from 1:00 to 6:00 PM at the Quality Inn, on State Route 23. Appointments to give blood can be made at RedCrossBlood.org, with the Red Cross Blood Donor App, or calling 1-800-RED CROSS.

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Local Photographer Ron Sager will have an exhibit & discussion of his photography at the Sidney Library Saturday from 2:00 to 4:00 PM, he told WCDO News about this exhibit:

(Ron Sager 2-23-24)

Sager will have another exhibit on March 2 at the 246 Main Street in Unadilla, with an exhibit & discussion specifically about Unadilla.

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Delaware County Sheriff’s Office arrested 36 year old Derrik Koehler of Walton for operating a motor vehicle while the registration or privilege is suspended, along with other charges, following a motor vehicle accident. On December 11th, Deputies were dispatched to an accident in the Town of Walton, Koehler was the driver of the vehicle, which had improper plates. On December 31st, Deputies arrested Koehler, He was scheduled to appear before the Town of Walton Court at a later date.

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The Otsego County Sheriff’s Office arrested 21 year old Kathleen Lapine of Oneonta following a traffic stop on December 27th in the Town of Oneonta. Lapine was charged with Aggravated Unlicensed Operation of a motor vehicle and Speed over 55, she was ordered to appear in the Town of Oneonta court at a later date.

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The Tri Town Theater announced their line up for their 60th Season, which starts in October, Cameron Kinnear made the announcement on WCDO Live this morning:

(Cameron kinnear 1-4-23)

More information about the current season and the 60th season will be on the Tri Town Theater Facebook page.

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Local newly elected Assemblyman Brian Maher was sworn-in during a ceremony in Albany Tuesday,

(Brian Maher 1-4-23)

Maher represents the 101st Assembly District which includes several towns in Delaware & Otsego Counties locally.

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State Police issued 32,934 tickets and arrested 453 people for impaired driving during the National DWI Crackdown which started on Wednesday, December 14, 2022, and continued through New Year’s Day on Sunday, January 1, 2023. Troopers arrested 453 people for DWI and investigated 4,417 accidents, which resulted in 528 people being injured and eight fatalities.

A.M. NEWS WEDNESDAY 1-4-23

The State Department of Health reported that influenza activity remains widespread in New York, it’s the 12th consecutive week of widespread activity reported this season. The Department’s latest flu surveillance report, through December 24, shows a total of 255,981 positive influenza cases across all 62 counties have been reported to date, there were 43 outbreaks in acute care and long-term care facilities & 5 influenza-associated pediatric deaths have been reported for the season. COVID 19 cases continue to trend upward, the latest report had a positivity rate over 10%, with 30 deaths reported in hospitals & nursing homes.

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Delaware County Sheriff’s Office announced the arrest of 30-year-old Michael Vogel of Delhi. On December 27th, Deputies picked up Vogel at the Village of Sidney Police Department, he was arrested on the Bench Warrant for failure to appear. Vogel was arraigned & was released on his own recognizance, he was ordered to appear in court at a later date.

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The Otsego County Sheriff’s Office arrested 38-year-old Christine Gates of Morris, following an investigation into reports of physical abuse. Gates is accused of abusing 2 juveniles, she was released on an appearance ticket returnable to the Town of Morris Court at a later date.

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The Sidney Chamber of Commerce will hold their first meeting of the New Year this morning. The meeting will be held at 8:00 AM, at the Sidney Memorial Library.

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The City of Norwich is accepting applications for the city’s Housing Rehabilitation Program, Norwich Community Development Director Eric Scrivener told WCDO News that there is no deadline to apply, but it would make the most sense to apply as soon as possible:

(Eric Scrivener 10-31-22)

Scrivener said that more information is available at city’s website: norwichny.net or by calling 334-1229.

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Early voting began Saturday for the November general election, with New York voters casting their ballots for governor, state Senate and Assembly, as well as congressional offices & some town board seats. Early Voting ends Sunday November 6th, more information is available at elections.ny.gov.

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The State DEC announced that remaining Deer Management Permits in several Wildlife Management Units will be available to hunters starting Tomorrow. Deer management Permits allows hunters to harvest antlerless deer, in Specific Wildlife Management Units to control deer populations. More information is available at dec.ny.gov/outdoor/hunting.

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New Yorkers needing help paying their heating bills can begin applying for home heating assistance on Tuesday, November 1. The Home Energy Assistance Program, also known as HEAP, can provide up to $976 this winter to help low- and middle-income households and senior citizens, Nearly 1.7 million HEAP benefits were issued last winter, the highest in at least the past five years. Similar demand for assistance is expected again this winter. Applications can be found at mybenefits.ny.gov.

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U.S. Senate Majority Leader Charles Schumer announced that Upstate New York will receive over $50 million in federal funding through the first round of the EPA’s Clean School Bus Program to purchase over 130 brand new electric school buses. Locally, the Downsville central School District will receive over $395,000 for the purchase of 1 new electric school bus.

A.M. NEWS MONDAY 10-31-22

Today is Halloween, in Sidney trick or treating will be from 5:00 to 8:30, in Oneonta, trick or treating will be from 3:30 to 8:00 PM, with a parade on Main Street at 6:00 PM. In Bainbridge this year, a community Halloween Party Trunk or Treat will be held in the Village parking lot behind Bob’s Diner, from 5:00 to 7:00 PM. In Unadilla, Trick or Treating with a costume parade will be held at the Unadilla Elementary School starting at 6:30 PM.

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The General Clinton Canoe Regatta committee will hold their 1st meeting at 7:00 pm tonight at Galaxy Bowl in Bainbridge, people are invited to attend & give input on next year’s regatta.

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The Sidney Historical Association will present Terry McMaster, who is a direct descendant of Sidney Village Founder William Johnston this coming Saturday. Historical Society President Larry Halbert explains:

(Larry Halbert 1-31-22)

The event will be held at the Sidney Public Library starting at 1:30 PM.

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Village of Sidney Police Department responded to a complaint of a burglary in progress on River Street Wednesday. Officers responded to the area and arrested 29 year old Bradly Falkenmeyer of Sidney for 3rd degree Burglary, Criminal mischief & Petty larceny. Falkenmeyer was arraigned in Village of Sidney Court where he was remanded to the Delaware County Jail with no option of bail.

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State Senator Peter Oberacker announced that community libraries throughout the 51st senatorial district have been awarded a total of nearly $300,000 in public library construction grant funds. The grants are from $14 million in capital funds for public library construction and broadband infrastructure projects provided in the current state budget. Locally, the Edmeston Free Library will receive over $92,000 for 3 projects, the Kinney Memorial Library in Hartwick will receive $9,000 for a roofing project, & the Sidney Memorial Public Library will receive over $32,000 to renovate the parking lot.

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Governor Kathy Hochul today announced that the Great New York State Fair will return in 2022 as a 13-day event, running from Wednesday, August 24 to Labor Day, Monday, September 5. The return to a 13-day event will allow for greater participation of fairgoers and vendors at not only the New York State Fair, but also at a number of the State’s county fairs that had coinciding schedules. The Governor also seeks a Review of Opportunities to improve Youth and Agricultural Programming; Marketing and Promotion for County Fairs; and the State Fair’s Smoking Policy.

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Governor Kathy Hochul reintroduced New Yorkers to new Lieutenant Governor Brian Benjamin, who was officially Sworn In today:

(Brian Benjamin 9-9-21)

Benjamin said that Governor Hochul has entrusted him with helping to fight the COVID pandemic & its aftermath, including the dealing of reimbursements to renters & landlords during the shutdown, as well as battling the ongoing opioid epidemic that continues across the state.

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The United Way of Delaware and Otsego Counties’ campaign started today with the announcement of the fall campaign goal of $50,000. Executive Director Elizabeth Monaco told WCDO News that last year was a tough year for the chapter due to the COVID 19 pandemic:

(Elizabeth Monaco 9-9-21)

Monaco said that last year, largely due to the pandemic & subsequent shutdown,, the United Way of Delaware & Otsego Counties only raised about $17,000, but they also raised $31,000 in local COVID-19 Relief Funds over the last 18 months, beyond the campaign dollars raised, to assist the community in both the short and long term impacts of the pandemic. . This year’s campaign will conclude on December 31st, more information is available at 334-8815 or unitedwaydo.org.

A.M. NEWS Thursday 9-9-21

Governor Kathy Hochul announced that New York will delay the requirement that state employees get vaccinated against COVID 19 or undergo weekly tests to October 12th, which is the same day telecommuting workers are scheduled to return to their offices. Governor Hochul said that Workers in hospitals and nursing homes must get their first dose by September 27th, and employees at home care agencies, hospices and adult care facilities have until October 7th to get the first shot. SUNY and CUNY students are also mandated to show proof of vaccination by Sept. 27 to remain enrolled in classes. Some medical exemptions will be accepted.

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Commerce Chenango will hold their annual Luncheon today in Norwich, Commerce Chenango President & CEO Kerri Green told WCDO News about this year’s award winners:

(Kerri Green 9-9-21)

The Annual event is at Hidden Springs Brewhouse in Norwich, starting at 11:00 AM.

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The mobile screening coach will be at the Oneonta Southside Mall Today, from 9:00am to 2:30pm to provide NO COST mammograms and Pap tests to women 40 and over. Appointments or more information is available at 1-888-345-0225.

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Delaware County Public Health will hold Free Rabies Vaccination Clinic for dogs, cats and ferrets today from 5:00PM to 7:00PM, at The Margaretville Town Clerk’s Office at 42339 State Highway 28, Margaretville. For questions or more information call 607-832-5200 or see our website www.delawarecountypublichealth.com

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The American Red Cross of Western New York will be holding a Job Fair today from 12:00 Noon until 6:00 PM at the Southern Tier Chapter office at 620 East Main Street in Endicott. 2 Outside Sales Donor Recruitment representatives & Entry-level Phlebotomists to assist in operating upcoming blood drives are needed locally, Walk-ins are welcome or applicants can pre-register at redcross.org/careers. Those interested are reminded to bring a resume the day of the event.

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State Senator Fred Akshar announced Today that he will run for Broome County Sheriff in 2022, seeking to replace David Harder, whom Akshar served with as Broome County Undersheriff. Akshar had worked in law enforcement for 15 years prior to running for & winning the State Senate Seat & began serving his 1st term in 2015. Akshar said that he will finish out his current Senate Term & run for the Sheriff’s Position next year.

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Village of Delhi Police Department arrested 28-year-old Andrew Kreger for Reckless Driving, Endangering the Welfare of a Child and Improper Passing. Kreger was released on appearance tickets returnable to the Delhi Town Court at a later date.

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The Greater Oneonta Historical Society has 3 new Mini-exhibits at their History Center at 183 Main Street. Society Director Dr. Marcella Micucci explains:

(Marcella Micucci 6-3-21)

The exhibits will remain on display at the History Center through Saturday, August 28th, they are open Tuesdays through Fridays, from 12:00 pm to 4:00 pm, and on Saturdays from 10:00 am to 4:00 pm. Admission is free, more information is available at 432-0960, or OneontaHistory.org.

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Delaware County Board of Elections announced that the Local Primary Election date is June 22nd, with the polls will be open from 6:00 AM to 9:00 PM. Primary races include the Republican Party primaries for the Town of Colchester Council & the Walton Superintendent of Highways. More information is available at 832-5321, sample ballots are available delcony.us/departments.

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The statewide single-day COVID-19 positivity rate dropped to 0.44% Wednesday, and the 7-day rolling average dropped to 0.60%, & hospitalizations from COVID statewide fell below 1,000 to 970 for the first time since October 21st of last year. There were 245 ICU patients with 143 on ventilators Wednesday, over 128,000 tests were administered with 565 positive tests, and there were 10 COVID attributed deaths. The State Health Department reported that 46.3% of New Yorkers have completed their full Vaccine series.

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The Sidney Chamber of Commerce announced their annual winners at their meeting Tuesday, the Non-Profit award winner is the Sidney Library, Head Librarian Beth Paine commented:

(Beth Paine 6-3-21)

The Sidney Chamber announced Erin Insinga of the Delaware Valley Humane Society is the Citizen of the Years winner, East Main Lanes as the Business of the Years winner & Sidney School Superintendent Eben Bullock as the “Better Together” award winner, the Chamber is tentatively planning their annual Dinner in September.

A.M. NEWS 6-3-21

State Police responded Tuesday Night to the Perch Pond Cemetery on Nabinger Hill Road in Colesville for a report of a vehicle that struck a tree. 20 Year old Joshua Klee of Nineveh was the only occupant and was pronounced dead at the scene.

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Bassett Healthcare Network’s Fox Pediatrics at FoxCare Center in Oneonta is offering first dose Pfizer vaccines for patients 12 and up Today, Clinics are from 4:00 to 6:00 PM, appointments can be made at 433-1790. More information is available at bassett.org/covid-19.

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The Chenango County Health Department is hosting a FREE Janssen Vaccine Clinic at the Norwich Firehouse During the Chicken Barbecue on Saturday June 12th, from 1:00 to 3:00 pm. NO APPOINTMENT IS NEEDED, The Clinic is first come first serve, 100 doses are available. Participants must be 18 years or older for this type of vaccine & they will need to complete a health screening form before the shot. More information is available at 337-1660.

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(Cuomo 7-1-20)

The State Health Department reported that hospitalizations were at 879 statewide, the number of deaths Tuesday was 11, the state Death toll of 24,866, the total number of cases since March was about 394,000.  The Southern Tier rate of positive tests was .7% Tuesday.

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State Police continue their crackdown on people bringing illegal fireworks into the state; Troopers arrested 2 people Tuesday for Unlawfully Dealing with Fireworks.  A trooper initiated a traffic stop on I-81 in the town of Kirkwood, after he observed a driver commit a traffic violation. An investigation resulted in the discovery of illegal fireworks totaling over $500.  Arrested were 31 year old Xavier Santos of Syracuse and 34 year old Aristides Lopez-Robles of Syracuse, Both men were released on appearance tickets to the town of Kirkwood court on July 15th.

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State Police arrested 25 year old Casey Jean of Tully for Unlawfully Dealing with Fireworks, after a trooper initiated a traffic stop on Interstate 81 in the town of Dickinson.  An investigation yielded numerous illegal fireworks in Jean’s possession totaling over $2,700 dollars.   He was arrested, processed then released on an appearance ticket to the town of Dickinson court on July 14, 2020.

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Delaware County Sheriff Deputies arrested 40 year old Jennifer Briggs of Stamford Tuesday on an Arrest Warrant issued by the Town of Stamford Court following a domestic dispute last week.  Deputies arrested Briggs for harassment and criminal mischief for allegedly striking the victim and causing the victim to strike and break a window.  Briggs was released on an appearance ticket for Town of Stamford Court on a later date.

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The Chenango County Health Department announced their Coronavirus numbers for today, they have had 146 positive cases, there are 25 people under Quarantine, no one is Hospitalizations, there have been 6 deaths, 137 Recoveries & the Total number of Tests Performed is 10907.

New York State has joined with New Jersey and Connecticut in jointly issuing a travel advisory for anyone returning from states that have a significant spread of COVID-19.   All travelers entering New York who have recently traveled within a state with either a positive test rate or a testing positivity rate of higher than a 10% over a 7-day rolling average, will be required to quarantine for 14 days. Analysis of the metrics will be conducted weekly to determine if travelers from other states qualify.

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Delaware County Public Health announced that they have had 82 total Positive Results for COVID 19.  76 people have recovered, no one is isolated at home, & no one is Hospitalized, 6 have died, 17 are quarantined, over 3700 have been tested.

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State Department of Labor Commissioner Roberta Reardon announced that as the Southern Tier continues to reopen there are a growing number of positions available on the Jobs Express website, at jobs.ny.gov. Currently more than 4,400 jobs are available in a number of different fields from businesses looking to hire immediately. 

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Regatta Row 2020 is going forward this summer.  11 adult canoe paddle Adirondack chairs, 8 child sized chairs and 1 double chair will be going out on the sidewalks in front of businesses along North and West Main in Bainbridge starting today, along with some mini canoe paddles painted by area young people. The chairs and paddles will go to auction online from July 5 at noon until August 7 ending at 10:00 pm at 32auctions.com.

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Major League Baseball has informed Minor League Baseball that it will not be providing its affiliated Minor League teams with players for the 2020 season, there will not be a Minor League Baseball season in 2020.  The Binghamton Rumble Ponies are currently exploring plans to host other events at NYSEG Stadium this summer, all fans holding tickets for the 2020 Season may call The NYSEG Stadium Box Office to receive a refund Monday through Friday, between the hours of 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM.

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The Sidney Village offices are now open regular hours, Monday through Friday from 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM.  Village Board Meetings are now open to the public, masks must be worn.  The Village also announced that the playground at Keith Clark Park is open, it will be disinfected 3 times a day, a schedule is posted at the playground, all other playgrounds around the village are still closed.

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The Sidney Library is now open by appointment only, at 563-1200, the Masonville & Sidney Center Libraries will remain closed until July 7th.

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Lawmakers are waiting for some action on any of the proposal regarding the controversial Bail Reform Law that went into effect January 1st, Assemblyman Cliff Crouch comments:

(Cliff Crouch 1-30-20)

The controversial law went into effect as part of a budget bill last year, it calls for people arrested on over 400 charges to be automatically released from the initial court appearance on an appearance ticket, several instances have already occurred where someone was released & almost immediately committed another crime.

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Local Mayors Andy Matviak of Sidney, Phil Wade of Bainbridge and Dave Welch of Unadilla have been meeting monthly for about the last year, one of the issues they have dealt with is how to get legal notices & other information out following the demise of the Tri Town News, and they have decided to send out an email blast together, Unadilla Mayor Dave Welch commented:

(Dave Welch 1-30-20)

Resident that want to get the email blast most contact their village offices to submit their email address, each Email blast will come out Thursdays to those who have subscribed.  WCDO will broadcast our interview with the 3 Mayors Tuesday evening following the 6:00 PM news.

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Jury deliberations are scheduled to begin today in the trial of 33 year old Gabriel Pruitt of Oneonta.  Pruitt is charged with Arson & Murder in connection with a fire at 5 walling Avenue on December 29th of 2018, former Oneonta Firefighter John Heller died while getting his family out of the burning building.

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A lawsuit has been filed in State Supreme Court against the Town Of Guilford, for their controversial renewable energy law, that would allow Calpine to erect up to 30 large wind turbines in the town.  A coalition of residents from Guilford & the adjacent town of Unadilla filed the lawsuit January 24th.

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Governor Cuomo announced legislation in the proposed Executive Budget that grants the State Police Superintendent the right to issue administrative subpoenas as a way empower the State Police to investigate internet crimes against children. This new power will enable the State Police to move quickly to identify and locate persons suspected of online sexual exploitation of minors by streamlining the subpoena process necessary to obtain their online records.

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The Tri-Town Coalition on Substance Abuse Prevention will hold their next meeting this evening in Sidney.   The meeting will be held at the Sidney Public Library Smart Community Room from 6:00 PM to 7:30 PM

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Delaware County Sheriff’s Deputies arrested 22-Year-Old Siara Mettler of Hamden on a charge of Aggravated Unlicensed Operator, Unlicensed Operator, and Uninspected Motor Vehicle. Mettler was later released on traffic tickets, and is scheduled to appear in the Walton Town Court at a later date to answer the charge.

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Governor Cuomo cut the ribbon to open the 172nd Great New York State Fair this afternoon in Syracuse.  The State Fair runs through September 2nd with food, exhibits, & entertainment. About 1 million fairgoers are expected to pass through the turnstiles at the State Fair over the 13 days.

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The Oneonta Common Council approved plans to move forward with the redevelopment of the old Railyards at last night’s meeting.  Plans call for a variety of developments in the Roundhouse Road area, which are designed to bring more jobs to the region upon completion.

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Delaware County continues to sell its recyclables at about the same rate as it has over the last several years, but they do have to be inventive in order to keep up with the market place, according to Delaware County Solid Waste Coordinator Tyson Robb explains:

(Tyson Robb 7-19-19)

Robb said they will be announcing details soon about the upcoming Delaware County Clean Sweep event, and an open house later this fall.

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Delaware County Sheriff’s Deputies arrested 28-Year-Old Ariel Alvarez of Walton, for Operating a Motor Vehicle with a Suspended Registration, Aggravated Unlicensed Operator,  Operating a Motor Vehicle without Insurance, Operating a Motor Vehicle without an Inspection Certificate, driving with an Obstructed view & Failure to Notify DMV of an Address Change, following a traffic stop recently.  Alvarez was issued appearance tickets for the Franklin Town Court at a later date.

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SUNY Oneonta officials estimate that about 2000 new students are moving in today, as classes start for the fall semester on Monday.   A number of orientations for the new students will be held prior to the start of classes for the incoming freshman. 

Delaware County Sheriff’s Deputies arrested 23 year old Joseph Hahn of Walton for Driving While Ability Impaired due to Drugs, following an investigation of a 4 car motor vehicle accident on Main Street in Delhi.   Hahn allegedly rear ended a parked vehicle, causing damage to an additional two vehicles, while operating a motor vehicle while impaired by drugs.  Hahn was released on appearance tickets, and was scheduled to appear before the Town of Delhi Court at a later date for further process.  

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Chenango County Sheriff’s Deputies arrested 47 year old William Johnson for criminal possession of a controlled substance, for allegedly possessing Methamphetamines, crack cocaine & a narcotic during a traffic stop.  Johnson was arraigned in the Town of Plymouth Court & was remanded to the Chenango County Jail on cash bail pending additional court action in the Town of Plymouth Court. 

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Delaware County Sheriff’s Deputies arrested 31 year old Alycia Possemato of Guilford for Attempted Assault & Criminal Obstruction of Breathing or Blood Circulation, following a domestic dispute at the Delaware County Fair. Possemato was arraigned and remanded to the Delaware County Correctional Facility on $1,000 cash bail pending action in Village of Walton Court on a later date.

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The State Department of Labor today released preliminary local area unemployment rates for July 2019. The State wide rate was 4%, locally; Chenango & Otsego Counties had 4% unemployment, Delaware County 4.5%.

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The Roxbury Arts Group is presenting a series of Information Sessions throughout Delaware County to inform area artists, organizations, and residents about the Decentralization Grant Program, Group Spokesperson Samantha Nick comments:

(Samantha Nick 8-21-19)

Nick is the Grants and Community Coordinator for the Roxbury Arts Group, she will present a talk at the Sidney Memorial Public Library at 10:00 am today, it is free and open to the public.

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Otsego County Sheriff’s Department arrested 21 year old Jared Talbot of Oneonta after an animal cruelty investigation involving pigs in the Town of Laurens. Talbot is accused of overriding torturing or injuring animals and failure to provide sustenance in violation of the NYS Agriculture and Markets Law. Talbot will appear in the Town of Laurens Court on a later date.
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Former New York State Senate Majority Leader Dean Skelos was sentenced on Wednesday to four years and three months in prison on federal corruption charges, including soliciting bribes and defrauding the public. Prosecutors accused the elder Skelos of using his position to pressure three companies to provide his son with consulting work, a “no-show” job and a $20,000 payment.
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The State Senate Task Force on Heroin and Opioid Addiction issued a new report describing steps currently being taken to address the state’s opioid crisis. The report includes 11 recommendations, Including Increasing resources to support the recruitment and retention of healthcare professionals trained to treat substance use disorder; Upgrade the I-STOP Program to improve interstate monitoring of potential over-prescribing of opioids, Reduce the cost of naloxone to treat overdoses, & Explore the further limitation of initial opioid prescriptions for acute pain to 3 days from the current 7days, with certain medical exceptions; more information is available at nysenate.gov/committees/heroin-task-force. Local State Senator Fred Akshar serves on the Task Force.
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The Southside Mall Job Fair will be held today, from 3:00 to 5:00 pm. Various employers from local businesses, Agencies & Training Providers will talk with local job seekers; more information is available at cdoworkforce.org.
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The October Committee Meeting of the Otsego County Democrats will be held today in Oneonta. The event will run from 7:00 to 9:00 PM at the 6th Ward Athletic Club at 22 West Broadway in Oneonta.
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The Tri County Senior Center will hold a meeting today, featuring guest speaker Barbara Losee, on the topic of “changes we face as we age”. The event will run from 5:15 to 6:30 pm in the Smart Community Room at the Sidney Public Library. More information is available at 563-8065
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The Mothers & Babies Peri-Natal Network of South Central New York will be holding their annual Meeting & Awards Presentation tonight in Binghamton. The event will run from 5:00 to 8:30 PM at the Holiday in Downtown Binghamton, more information is available at mothersandbabies.org or at 7720517.
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Governor Cuomo signed legislation to deliver health care benefits to volunteer firefighters who have been diagnosed with certain cancers. Currently, volunteer firefighters are eligible for accidental disability and death benefits through Workers’ Compensation if they are injured in the line of duty. Under the bill, volunteer firefighters who contract lung, prostate, breast, lymphatic, urinary, neurological, melanoma & many other types of cancer will be automatically eligible for health benefits if: Upon entry to volunteer, a physical exam did not show any evidence of the cancers; Individuals have at least 5 years of service fighting structure fires; and the firefighter is currently active or has been within the last 5 years.
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Heather Franklin was back in Chenango County Court Friday, she is facing charges along with her husband Ernest Franklin, for allegedly killing their adopted son Jeffrey on March 1st, and setting their home on fire to cover up the murder. The Franklins will be tried separately, in early 2018.
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Governor Cuomo announced that $1.25 million in funding is available through two grant programs designed to assist farmers across the state. The New Farmers Grant Fund helps new and early-stage farmers, and the New York State Veterans Farmer Grant Fund supports farms owned and operated by military veterans. Additional resources for new or prospective farmers are available on the Department’s website, agriculture.ny.gov,
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An Informational meeting will be held this morning at 10:00 AM regarding the current situation with the Main Street Revitalization project. The public is invited to attend & participate, the meeting will be held in the Civic Center 1st Floor Board Room.
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Endicott Police and State Police Investigators uncovered a methamphetamine-manufacturing laboratory at a residence on West Wendell Street. Police arrested 22-year-old Paige Vymislicky of Endicott, for Burglary, Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance & Unlawful Manufacture of Methamphetamine. 24 year old Bradlee Bismark of Endicott was arrested for Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance, Unlawful Manufacture of Methamphetamine and Criminally Using Drug Paraphernalia. Both suspects were arraigned in the Town of Union Court and remanded to the Broome County Jail with out bail.
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The age-adjusted suicide death rate for years 2011-2013 in Delaware County was 17.2 per 100,000 which are above the State average, and for that reason, The Suicide Prevention Network of Delaware County will be hosting “Let’s Talk about It” at 2 locations today, spokesperson Rene Stratton comments:

(Rene Stratton 9-21-15)

Let’s Talk About It will be held this morning at 9:00 AM at the Sidney Library and again at 6:00 PM at SUNY Delhi Sanford Hall.
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Oneonta officials announced that more tests are being conducted this week on their water distribution system. Hydrant flow test & pipe condition tests will be conducted today at numerous locations around the city, they will continue again on Friday, more information is available at 432-2100.
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(Congressman Chris Gibson 8-26-14)

The meeting was hosted by The Utica School of Commerce, and held at the Sidney Public Library, congressman Gibson suggested a follow up meeting in 6 months to review progress.
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Oneonta Police arrested 26 year old William Alvarez of the town of Maryland early Saturday morning, on charges of DWI, unlawful fleeing police, refusal to take a breath test, Speeding, unsafe lane change, unsafe start, failure to keep right and not wearing a seat belt. Alvarez was sent to the Otsego county jail on $1,750 bail pending future court action.
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Governor Cuomo today announced the $40 million NY Prize Competition, by challenging New York businesses, entrepreneurs, and electric utilities to design and implement community-based microgrids, which offer energy independence, local power generation and distribution. The NY Prize Competition will work with the private sector to spur new business models and community partnerships to increase reliability and reduce costs for consumers. More information is available at prize.ny.gov.
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A City of Norwich resident was arrested by Chenango County Sheriff’s Office for underage possession of alcohol and open container in a motor vehicle. 18-year-old Gage Leach was after he allegedly pulled up next to Deputy Blincoe’s patrol car and asked for directions. Leach was a passenger in the vehicle was found to be in possession of an opened bottle of an alcoholic beverage. Defendant was issued appearance tickets for Town of Norwich Court at a later date, he was charged with Underage Possession of Alcohol & Open Container in a Motor Vehicle
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Manufacturers of alcoholic beverages have more than doubled in New York over the past 4 years, according to data released by Governor Cuomo’s office. The number of alcoholic-beverage producers has risen from 366 in 2011 to 752, with significant increases in the number of farm-based manufacturers. In all, the state is now home to 291 farm wineries, up from 195 in 2011 and 57 farm-based breweries, which were authorized by a state law that took effect last year.
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The Chenango County Sheriff’s Office arrested 30-year-old Nicole Pickard of Green for Petit Larceny and Conspiracy. Pickard allegedly stole $600 from a residence in Greene, she will appear in Town of Greene Court at a later date.
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The State Association of Realtors released its July home sale report. Across the state, new listings were up 1 percent compared to July 2013. The number of sales closed was down 10 percent, the median sales price dropped 0.4 percent and the total number of homes for sale was down 2 percent. In Delaware County, new listings were up 2 percent compared to July 2013. The number of sales closed was down 5 percent, the median sales price was up 17 percent and the total number of homes for sale was up 4 percent. In Chenango County, new listings were up 19 percent. The number of sales closed was down 35 percent, the median sales price dropped 21 percent and the total number of homes for sale was down 1 percent
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