WCDO NEWS TUESDAY 3-10-26

P.M. NEWS TUESDAY 3-10-26

The Chenango County Sheriff’s Office arrested 45 year old Gerald Schmitt of Norwich following an investigation into a stolen trailer and snowmobiles from the Town of Norwich. Schmitt was charged with Criminal possession of stolen property, tampering with physical evidence & Conspiracy, after 2 stolen snowmobiles were found on Schmitt’s property. Schmitt was released on appearance tickets in accordance with New York State Bail Reform and is scheduled to appear in the Town of Norwich Court at a later date.

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State lawmakers have 3 weeks to get a state budget passed for the next fiscal year, local assemblyman Joe Angelino told WCDO News that he will likely vote no on the budget:

(Angelino 3-10-26)

The Governor’s Budget proposal totaled 260 Billion Dollars, that number will likely increase once both houses of the legislature come up with their final proposals.

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The State Attorney General’s Office is investigating the death of an unidentified Binghamton man this past weekend. On March 7, Binghamton Police responded to the report of a man in the road blocking a Broome County Transit bus, he eventually climbed onto the front of the bus, resisted arrest, was taken to Binghamton General Hospital for a health evaluation, & was discharged the following day& was taken to Binghamton Police Headquarters, he experienced a medical emergency, officers administered 1st aid until EMT’s took him to Wilson Medical Center, where he was later pronounced dead. Anyone with information is asked to contact the Attorney General or the Binghamton Police at 607-772-7080.

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Oneonta Department of Public Service will be flushing water mains beginning tomorrow, March 11th starting at 9am to 4pm everyday until completed. During flushing, water users may experience a change in water color, pressure and/or loss of water. This is a common, temporary occurrence and is not a cause for alarm. See attached frequently asked questions. For additional questions, please call the Department at (607) 432-2100 or go to nixle.com through the City’s Facebook page.

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The State DEC & local fire departments remind area residents that the annual burn ban will will take effect March 16th, and will run through May 14th this year. During the Burn Ban, people will not be allowed to have large open fires and the burning of leaves, brush, cardboard are prohibited. The use of fire pits with fireguards, small cooking fires, charcoal and propane gas grills are allowed. The Burn Ban exists due to the high risk of wildfires & grass fires that can occur during the early spring and spread rapidly due to the drier than normal conditions.

A.M. NEWS Tuesday 3-10-26

State Police arrested Steven Vitalo of Cold Brook for grand larceny, insurance fraud and other similar offenses. Vitalo owns a company called Central Plumbing & Drains in Herkimer County, The Otsego County District Attorney’s Office accuses Vitalo of defrauding multiple clients throughout the county, Anyone who believes they were a victim of fraud can call the State Department of Financial Services hotline at 1-888-930-6565.

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RIVERDANCE 30 – The New Generation, comes to the Forum in Binghamton starting tonight, the international Irish dance phenomenon has been witnessed by an estimated 30 million people worldwide, Murphy Fauci of NAC Entertainment explains:

(Murphy Fauci 3-10-26)

Riverdance 30 will visit 67 American cities on the current tour through June, tickets are on sale online at BroadwayInBinghamton.com, Ticketmaster.com, and in person at the Arena Box Office.

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WCDO NEWS MONDAY 3-9-26

P.M. NEWS MONDAY 3-9-26

Delaware County Public Health reported that a raccoon tested positive for rabies in the town of Colchester, it’s the 1st positive case of rabies in Delaware County in 2026. The rabid raccoon exposed 2 dogs, There were no human exposures. Both dogs are up to date on their rabies vaccinations and received a booster. To report a suspected rabid animal call Delaware County Public Health Services at 607-832-5200, for more information visit delawarecountypublichealth.com

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A Local Couple that just lost their senior dog have decided to set up a fundraiser in Norwich at the end of the month, to help local pet owners get the care for their pet, and get help paying for the vet bills, Anett Slater of Norwich told WCDO news about their effort:

(Anett Slater 3-9-26)

Slater said that the event ” Luszi’s Legacy” will be at the Canasawacta Country Club on Saturday March 28th from 12:00 Noon until 3:00 PM with raffles, vendors, live music and food, more information is available at the “Luszi’s Legacy” Facebook page or by calling 607-244-3638

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The average price of gasoline at the pump in New York has increased by almost 40 cents per gallon in the last week, reaching $3.36 per gallon, according to GasBuddy. Nationally, the average price of gasoline went up 51 cents per gallon, averaging $3.45 per gallon. GasBuddy attributes the spike in gas prices to the U.S. strikes on Iran and the closure of the Strait of Hormuz, they suspect that prices will continue to rise as long as the conflict is continuing.

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The UHS Chenango Memorial Hospital Auxiliary will host its annual Trivia Night fundraiser on Saturday, March 14 at Canasawacta Country Club, 261 County Rd 44 in Norwich. Registration opens at 5 pm. and trivia begins at 6 pm. All proceeds benefit the UHS Chenango Memorial Hospital Auxiliary, the Registration deadline is this Wednesday, March 11. Teams can register online at norwichny.wixsite.com/cmhtrivia.

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Hartwick College in Oneonta announced that Kerry Tatlock, will be the guest speaker on April 9th at 7 pm. Tatlock is the executive vice president of global marketing partnerships and media at the National Basketball Association, she will headline the Meredith Sport Management Speaker Series in the Anderson Theatre at Hartwick College. The event is free and open to the public. Tatlock joined the NBA in 2005. More information is available at hartwick.meritpages.com

A.M. NEWS MONDAY 3-9-26

Governor Kathy Hochul today announced New York State Police and local law enforcement patrols will be increased through St. Patrick’s Day to combat drunk, impaired and reckless driving. This annual traffic safety enforcement period will begin on Monday, March 9, and run through Tuesday, March 17.? During last year’s St. Patrick’s Day impaired driving enforcement operation, officers statewide arrested 1,224 people for DWI, issued 10,314 tickets for speeding and issued 55,661 tickets in total.?

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New York State Police are continuing with their Recruitment efforts. Those who take the test by August 15, will have the chance to be a part of the August 2027 Academy, those interested can apply at joinstatepolice.ny.gov

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Commerce Chenango and the Chenango Foundation announced that registration is open for the 3rd annual Chenango Women’s Leadership Conference at DCMO BOCES Campus in Norwich on March 16th. Registration is available at the commercechenango.com.

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WCDO NEWS FRIDAY 3-6-26

P.M. NEWS FRIDAY 3-6-265

Unadilla Fire Department responded to a structure fire at about 5:20 PM at Weidman Street. The first arriving unit was on scene within 5 minutes of dispatch, the situation under control quickly and prevented further damage. Wells Bridge Fire Department responded with several other departments on standby. No injuries were reported.

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State Police announced that Marc Barbera of Oneonta is now leading the State Police at Troop D in Oneida. His appointment took effect on February 26th, Troop D covers seven Central New York counties, serving 167 towns, 89 villages, and 5 cities. Barbera joined the State Police in 2000.

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The Jericho Arts Council Announced that the Ryan Clan will perform Saturday Night at the Bainbridge Town Hall Theater, spokesman Phil Wade comments about the show & the show in the Gallery:

(Phil Wade 3-6-26)

Ticket Reservations are available by calling 607-288-3882

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This weekend will be the when clocks get turned ahead by 1 hour officially at Sunday, at 2:00 AM, make sure to change clocks before going to bed Saturday night.

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State Police at Troop C will be hosting a FREE child car seat check on Saturday, from 8 a.m., – 11 a.m. at the Chenango Fire Company at on Castle Creek Road. Appointments must be made at (607)561-7400.

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A.M. NEWS Friday 3-6-26

Broome County Sheriff’s Office arrested 44 year old Christopher West of Deposit following the report of copper piping stolen from a house while the residents were out of town. On Tuesday, deputies responded to a report of a suspicious vehicle parked at a residence on Yarnes Road in the Town of Colesville, the vehicle was registered to West, Deputies confirmed with the homeowner that no one was allowed to be in the residence. West was located in the basement and was taken into custody without incident. Copper pipes were found to have been cut, West was charged with Burglary, Criminal Mischief & Possession of Burglar Tools, he was processed and remains in custody at the Broome County Correctional Facility.

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The State Office for People with Developmental Disabilities will be holding walk in interviews for those interested in positions with the Department, today from 12:00 to 3:00 PM on March 6th at the Sidney Memorial Public Library, spokesman Joe Ramsey explains:

(Joe Ramsey 2-25-26)

More information is available by calling 607-240-4786 or by email Broome.Careers@opwdd.ny.gov.

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Bassett Healthcare Network’s FoxCare Center is hosting a blood drive with the American Red Cross today, from 12:00 Noon to 5:00 PM, at the Conference Room 1 at FoxCare Center in Oneonta. Appointments are available by calling 1-800-RED-CROSS, visiting redcrossblood.org, or using the American Red Cross Blood Donor App.

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WCDO NEWS THURSDAY 3-5-26

P.M. NEWS THURSDAY 3-5-26

U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand announced her opposition to President Trump’s illegal war with Iran, which she said must be ended as soon as possible:

(Gillibrand 3-5-26)

Senator Gillibrand voted yes Wednesday on the Senate’s war powers resolution to reassert Congress’ responsibility, demand accountability, and send a clear message that military force must be debated, justified, and authorized before American lives are put at risk. Additionally, President Trump admitted this week that his administration didn’t have a plan for how to evacuate Americans in the Middle East caught in the crossfire, leaving Americans stranded, with no support from their government.

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State Attorney General Letitia James & other Attorney’s General are teaming for a new Lawsuit Against Trump Administration, The lawsuit accuses Trump is misusing Section 122 of the Trade Act of 1974 and violating the Constitution and statutory rules requiring consistent tariff application.

(Letitia James 3-5-26)

James is joining Attorneys General of Arizona, California, and Oregon in that lawsuit against the Trump administration. So Far, the Tariffs have cost New York Families an average of over $1,700 in the 1st 12 months, The state is seeking reimbursement for every constituent & business that were affected adversely by the Trump Tariffs.

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The Competition will begin soon for those interested in performing at the Southern Tier Music Fest on July 4th at the Sidney Airport, Jeff Wood of Norther Star Productions told WCDO News that there will be 3 levels of a process of elimination auditions starting on March 19th:

(Jeff Wood 3-5-26)

Entry forms for the competition can be found on the Northern Star Facebook page or at Southern tier music fest .com, Tickets are still available at that website as well for the all day music festival on July 4th for the show headlined by Jackson Dean.

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The New York State Department of Taxation and Finance reminds New Yorkers that they are again offering Free tax Filing Options that are Secure & Efficient. The Free File software options can be used for Federal & State tax filing, the deadline to file returns and pay any tax owed is April 15, For information visit the State Tax Department website, tax.ny.gov.

A.M. NEWS THURSDAY 3-4-26

Chenango County Sheriff’s Office arrested 33 year old Kimberly Hart of Norwich, following an investigation into allegations of sexual abuse involving a juvenile victim. Hart allegedly engaged in sexual relations with a female juvenile victim & promoted the production of nude images of the juvenile victim and disseminated those images electronically to a registered sex offender residing in North Carolina. Hart was charged with Obscenity, Sexual Abuse, Disseminating Indecent Material to Minors, Sexual Misconduct, Endangering the Welfare of a Child, Promoting a Sexual Performance by a Child & Promoting an Obscene Sexual Performance by a Child Less Than 17 Years of Age. Hart was arraigned & remanded to the Chenango County Correctional Facility on $15,000 cash bail, $30,000 bond, The investigation remains ongoing.

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Attorney General Letitia James said recent events in Iran, may cause shipping delays that could impact U.S. imports and lead to unfair pricing on items like food, pharmaceuticals & gasoline. Anyone who notices excessively high prices can file a complaint with the Attorney General’s office using the price gouging complaint form at formsnym.ag.ny.gov.

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The Chenango County Historical Society and the Chenango County Historian’s Office are continuing with the planning of the America 250 Anniversary “Turtle Island” festival, another public meeting will be held on March 11th to get public input on the celebration, Historical Society Executive Director Jessica Moquin explains:

(Jessica Moquin 3-5-26)

The community dialogue will take place 6:00 to 7:30 pm. on March 11 at the SUNY Morrisville Norwich Campus, at 20 Conkey Ave. “Turtle Island” Festival is scheduled for July 5th at the Chenango County Fairgrounds in Norwich.

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WCDO NEWS WEDNESDAY 3-4-26

WCDO NEWS Wednesday 3-4-26

State Police Responded early this morning to 1092 County Road 37 in Mount Upton for a report of a plow truck that struck a house. An investigation determined that a Chenango County Highway Department plow was traveling west on County Road 37 salting the roadway when due to slick road conditions, the plow truck lost traction going up the hill. The plow truck rolled back down the hill while the operator attempted to regain control of the plow truck but was unable to and damaged a trailer, fence, road sign then struck the house. The accident led to the Gilberstville Mount Upton School District cancelling classes today, No injuries were reported.

A.M. NEWS WEDNESDAY 3-4-26

Attorney General Letitia James released a statement as New federal rules now require many New Yorkers without dependents to meet work or activity requirements to keep their SNAP benefits, effective on March 1st, following the end of a longstanding statewide waiver. The requirements apply to people aged 18 to 64 who do not have a child under 14, who are not pregnant or caring for someone who cannot care for themselves, and do not have a disability that prevents them from working. James said that she advised SNAP recipients to watch for communications from State or local officials and to contact their local social services office if they believe they qualify for an exemption or need help meeting the requirements. More information is available at otda.ny.gov

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Governor Hochul met business leaders to assess the damage of President Trump’s tariffs, so far, Based on estimates by the Budget Lab at Yale, the average New York household has faced an estimated $1,751 in added costs due to tariffs since they were enacted last year, for a total estimated $13.5 billion statewide impact. The Governor said that she was forced to propose $30 million in tariff relief in the Executive Budget to help impacted farmers across the state, after the tariffs causing higher equipment and supply costs among other major challenges. Last week the US Supreme Court ruling overturned Trump’s tariffs, business owners & Farmers told the Governor that the decision came too late.

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State Department of Transportation released the state Highway Bridge statistics for each county, which includes when it was built, last inspected and what waterway it crosses, Delaware County had 16 of 448 bridges in poor condition, Otsego County had 26 out of 266 bridges in poor shape & in Chenango County a total of 15 out of 257 bridges were determined to be in poor condition. The list of bridges that will require work or replacement can be found at dot.ny.gov

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The next meeting of the Sidney Chamber of Commerce will be held this morning, at Club 55 on Union Street, starting at 8:00 AM. Members & Directors are encouraged to attend.

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WCDO NEWS TUESDAY 3-3-26

P.M. NEWS TUESDAY 3-3-26

The weather in the region took an unexpected turn this afternoon, causing issues with after school activities & travel, local Meteorologist Rich Townsend comments:

(Townsend 3-3-36)

Multiple accidents are being reported throughout the region by law enforcement agencies, they advise motorists to slow down & leave extra time to get to your destination. Also, With all of the postponements of sectional semi final basketball games, the Boys & Girls Class C Basketball games will be held at Delaware Academy in Delhi & TC3 in Dryden tomorrow. All of the Boys & Girls Class D semi finals will be held Wednesday at SUNY Delhi.

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Otsego County Sheriff’s Office arrested 20 year old Kyle Ruiz of Hartwick, for Promotion of a Sexual Performance by a Child & Obscenity, following an investigation in to multiple Cyber Tips received from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children. The Investigation revealed that Ruiz used multiple usernames to solicit sexual content from other users on various social media platforms. In January investigators executed a search warrant at the Ruiz residence, Following the examination of multiple seized devices, additional information contributed to arrest. Ruiz turned himself in today & was held in the Otsego County Correctional Facility to await Arraignment.

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30 year old Andrew Weiskopff of Johnson City was arrested on 4 counts of Assault, plus Reckless Endangerment, leaving the scene of a personal injury accident & reckless driving. Weiskopff is accused of striking 2 victims with his vehicle in front of Tully’s in Vestal last Thursday. Both female victims were taken to an area hospital, Weiskopff was located at he returned to his residence, and he was taken into custody without issue, He was also issued two traffic tickets for varying offenses, Weiskopff was remanded to the Broome County Jail

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The State Department of Motor Vehicles announced that their department helped New Yorkers recover more than $13.6 million in stolen vehicles, titles, parts and services during 2025. The department reported that 384 Stolen Vehicles were Recovered in 2025 Worth $10.4 Million, and an Additional $3.2 Million Recouped in Titles, Repairs and Refunds, That number is an increase from $11 million recovered in 2024.

A.M. NEWS TUESDAY 3-3-26

On Thursday Night, Broome County Sheriff’s Office Road Patrol observed a stolen vehicle traveling at a high rate of speed on State Route 17 in the Town of Vestal, A pursuit followed, to I-81, to I-88 into the town of Fenton & back through Binghamton into Johnson City, the pursuit ended when a tire fail off, the driver, 28 year old Romario Robinson of Binghamton, was taken into custody. 28 year old Shelby Medovich of Harpursville exited a nearby restaurant & interfered with the investigation of Robinson, she is accused of being a participant in the theft of the vehicle. Robinson and Medovich were charged with Criminal Possession of Stolen Property, Criminal Possession of a Forged Instrument, Conspiracy, Robinson faced additional traffic violations both were processed, arraigned & were released on their own recognizance pending future court action.

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The Raymond Corporation will host an On-Site Job Fair in Greene On March 3, from 12:00pm to 6:00 pm. Job seekers interested in manufacturing and warehousing careers will be able to complete on the spot interviews and tours. Raymond intends to make offers to qualified job seekers within (1) business day from time of interview.

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WCDO NEWS MONDAY 3-2-26

P.M. NEWS MONDAY 3-2-26

41 year old Franklin Gentry of Utica was arrested by Norwich Police Friday for Attempted Murder in connection with a fatal stabbing in Utica on February 15th. U.S. Marshals tracked gentry to Norwich, they coordinated with Norwich Police, Gentry was found Friday at West Main & Guernsey Street in Norwich at around 2:00 PM. Gentry was brought back to Utica by US Marshalls & faces court action On the attempted Murder charge, additional charges are anticipated.

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Governor Hochul directed intelligence communities & cyber experts here in the State to coordinate with local law enforcement as well as federal law enforcement to Keep New Yorkers safe following military interaction with Iran in recent days:

(Hochul 3-2-26)

Governor Kathy Hochul has directed local and federal law enforcement to prioritize the safety of New Yorkers, especially at their places of worship for the near future as long as the military actions are continuing in the Middle East.

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The Gus Macker Basketball Tournament returns to downtown Norwich again July 11th & 12th, and the push is on to get certified referees to participate, according to organizer Tom Revoir:

(Tom Revoir 3-2-26)

Revoir said that the National Macker tournament officials have added 12 more locations for tournaments this year, more information is available at Macker.com.

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The State DMV is urging New York Vehicle Owners to check their vehicles for safety recalls as part of Vehicle Safety Recalls Week this week through March 8th. State Department of Motor Vehicles officials stated that 1 out of every 5 cars on the road had an open recall, which amounts to about 2 million vehicles in New York, go to dmv.ny.gov to see if your vehicle has a recall.

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The State DEC & Area Fire Departments announced that the annual Burn Ban will be from March 16th to May 14th this year. Open Burning of brush or debris is prohibited during that time-frame, to prevent wildfires & grass fires during the traditional driest time of the year.

A.M. NEWS MONDAY 3-2-26

Following U.S. military operations in Iran, State Police are taking precautionary steps to protect communities across the state. Troopers are increasing their presence at religious, diplomatic, and cultural sites in coordination with our federal, state, and local law enforcement partners. So far, there were no specific, credible threats to New York, residents are asked to remain alert and report any suspicious activity to law enforcement.

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The Grand Union grocery store on East Main Street in Norwich is closing On March 7th, leaving many city without its only local grocery option within walking distance of Downtown. City officials are working with state & federal representatives to try to bring a centrally located grocery store to downtown Norwich. The Grand Union in Hartwick Seminary is also schedule to close permanently this week.

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The Governor’s Office reminds New Yorkers that March is Maple Month. Residents & visitors are encouraged To Participate in Upcoming Maple Weekends on March 21-22 and 28-29, and Special Promotions at New York’s Welcome Centers. New York State Ranks Second in the Nation in Maple Production behind Vermont, New York Maple Producers had 829,000 Gallons of Maple Syrup in 2025.

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WCDO NEWS FRIDAY 2-27-26

P.M. NEWS FRIDAY 2-27-26

The Otsego County Sheriff’s Office & The State Comptroller’s Office announced the arrest of 37 year old Johnathan Kersman of Worcester, who was charged with Grand Larceny. The Joint Investigation accuses Kersman of misappropriation of funds while serving as the Town of Decatur Supervisor from the Town Budget. Kersman allegedly paid himself an additional salary from the town budget that he did not have approval from the board to do so, in the amount of about $2,000. Deputies located Kersman Thursday at his residence where he was taken into custody without incident, he was processed and released with an appearance ticket returnable to the Town of Decatur Court at a later date.

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Governor Hochul & the State Department of Health announced $10 million to enhance dental care services at school-based health centers and improve oral health outcomes for children across the state. The program includes dental services offering preventive and restorative oral health care, including screenings, sealants, and treatments, Delivered directly at the schools.

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Student artwork from across Chenango County will be featured in the Mariea Brown and Raymond Loft Galleries. Opening reception will be Saturday, February 28, 2026 from 1-4pm, during which awards for Drawing, Painting, Sculpture, Photography, and Mixed Media will be present, along with 2 student scholarships. Live music will be performed special thanks to Preferred Mutual. This event is free and open to the public.

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The Oneonta Department of Public Works announced that Crews were working to repair a Water Main Break on Scrambling Avenue this morning. Once the repair is complete, water users may experience a change in water color and/or pressure, More information is available by calling the Department of Public Works at (607) 432-2100 or email dpsinfo@oneonta.ny.us.

A.M. NEWS FRIDAY 2-27-26

38 year old Eslam Hegazy of Vestal has been identified as the person who was shot by Vestal Police Wednesday, Hegazy threw a television set at officers and he failed to put down a knife & attempted to attack an officer, after they responded to the report of a mental health issue, Hegazy was taken to Wilson Hospital where he succumbed to his injuries, the case has been turned over to the State Attorney General’s Office.

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The State Girl’s Wrestling Tournament was held at the MVP Arena in Albany Thursday, Sidney High School Sophomore Bella Phelps took 1st Place Honors in the 114 pound weight class, beating her opponent 11 to 1 in the Championship Match. Sophomore Wrestler Cadence Guy of the Walton Delhi Team finished in 4th place in the 100 pound weight class. The 2 Day Boys State Wrestling Tournament begins today in Albany.

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American Red Cross Blood Drives are continuing today & Saturday, as Blood Supplies continue to be very low. Today in Oneonta, from 1 pm. – 5 pm., a blood drive will be held at the Elm Park Methodist Church, 401 Chestnut Street, and another will be from 3 pm. – 7 pm., at the Laurens High School, On Saturday, a blood drive will be held in Gilbertsville from 10 am. – 2:30 pm., at the Christ Episcopal, book an appointment by using the Blood Donor App, RedCrossBlood.org or by calling 1-800-RED CROSS

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