WCDO Radio News

P.M. NEWS WEDNESDAY 11-11-20

50 year old Richard Millard of Vestal was sentenced to 6 years in prison for starting a fire that caused Home Central in Vestal, to burn down in February. Millard was charged with 2nd degree arson, he pleaded guilty in August in Broome County Court & was sentenced there Tuesday.

Construction is underway for the New Berlin Firehouse & Community Center, New Berlin Mayor Terry Potter has an update:

(Terry Potter 11-11-20)

Mayor Potter said that they are planning for a ribbon cutting ceremony at the conclusion of the construction.

Hartwick College reported no new cases of COVID-19 were reported, they still have 9 active cases on campus; the total number of cases detected on campus since August 1st is 66.

A.M. NEWS WEDNESDAY 11-11-20

Otsego County Department of Health reported 4 new cases of COVID 19 Tuesday. The County has 39 active cases, no one is hospitalized, there have been 8 deaths, of the 1072 total confirmed cases, 755 cases are linked to SUNY Oneonta & 64 cases are reported in Hartwick College students .

Assemblyman Cliff Crouch participated in a bridge dedication ceremony for the Sidney Veterans’ Memorial Highway Tuesday, he told WCDO News of the importance of that dedication to Veterans:

(Cliff Crouch 11-11-20)

Crouch and State Senator Jim Seward sponsored legislation last year that allowed for the dedication of the stretch of Route 8 between the Susquehanna River and I-88 in Sidney to honor veterans in the community and state.

The Broome County Health Department announced today that they added 51 more Positive COVID 19 test results, bringing their total to 3934. They have had 106 deaths, 3497 recoveries & about 4200 people are being monitored by the Department.

Hartwick College reported 1 new case of COVID-19 has been detected. There are 11 active cases on campus; the total number of cases detected on campus since August 1st is 66.

The Sidney Cultural Community Center will have its inaugural event on Saturday November 21st with a holiday bazaar, Sidney Chamber of Commerce President Teri Schunk explains:

(Teri Schunk 11-21-20)

The Sidney Cultural Community Center is located in the former 1st Congregational church at the corner of Bridge & Main Streets in Sidney.

Otsego County Department of Health reported 8 new cases reported Monday, bringing them up to 1068 total confirmed cases, with 42 active cases, no hospitalizations & 8 deaths. 755 cases are linked to SUNY Oneonta & 63 confirmed cases are in Hartwick College students.

Hartwick College reported 12 new cases of COVID-19 Friday, there are 27 active cases on campus; the total number of cases detected on campus since August 1, 2020 is 48.  The College announced that all campus dining will be takeout only, Use of Campbell Fitness Center and recreational use of indoor athletic facilities is suspended,  The Hartwick Campus continues to remain closed to all non-approved visitors, they are encouraging students to remain on campus, and Classroom instruction will continue as scheduled.

State Police arrested 3 men last week after they were spotted on I-81 in a stolen vehicle.  A Zone Sergeant observed the vehicle and attempted to initiate a traffic stop in Kirkwood.  The operator of the vehicle failed to comply and sped off and crashed in a wooded area, witnesses reported men running from the vehicle to State Route 11.  The 1st suspect was taken into custody in a wooded area, he was identified as 23 year old Christopher White of Brooklyn, and he was transported to Wilson Hospital for evaluation and later released back to the custody of troopers. Police located the driver of the vehicle, 27 year old Naquan McMaster of Brooklyn in Kirkwood; he was also treated at Wilson Hospital for an injury & was turned over the custody of Police.  Binghamton police located the 3rd male, 18 year old Konnor Scharborough of Elmira.  All 3 were charged with Criminal Possession of Stolen Property & were processed at Broome County Central Arraignment and Processing.

SUNY Oneonta has assembled a new task force to review campus police practices and strengthen the relationship between officers and the college community.  The group of 8 includes students, professors and a member of law enforcement.  The group plans to conduct a survey, interview stakeholders, review practices and policies, and identify the strengths and weaknesses of the campus police.

Otsego County Department of Health reported 10 new cases of COVID 19 Thursday, they are up to 999 total confirmed cases with 44 active cases,  0 hospitalizations, 8 deaths, 753 cases linked to SUNY Oneonta, and 39 confirmed cases in Hartwick College students.

28 organizations were awarded grants totaling $454,200 from the Community Foundation for South Central New York. The successful grant applications are for a variety of capital projects, operations, COVID-19 related needs, and programs for Non Profit organizations around the Southern Tier, more information is available at donorswhocare.org.

Broome County Health Department announced another 4 deaths from COVID 19 Thursday, bringing their total to 98, they have had 3522 cases since March, with 2825 recoveries, and almost 5200 people are being monitored.

Hartwick College reported two new cases of COVID-19 have been detected. There are 15 active cases on campus; the total number of cases detected on campus since August 1, 2020 is 36.

A.M. NEWS Thursday 10-29-20

State Police is reminding people to be aware of when someone calls and requests payment in the form of gift cards.  Scammers will say you owe money to the IRS, Social Security, the U.S. Marshal’s Office or some other government entity.  The scammers will even use scare tactics and say there’s a family emergency.  Do not give out your personal information over the phone, do not allow someone to remotely connect to your computer, do not cash check you are not anticipating.

Otsego County Department of Health reported 3 new COVID 19 cases Wednesday, the county now has 989 total confirmed cases, 38 active cases, 0 hospitalized, there have been 8 deaths, 751 cases linked to SUNY Oneonta & 34 confirmed cases in Hartwick College students

The Chenango County Health Department announced that their contact tracing team interviewed a confirmed positive COVID-19 case, that individual reported having visited the Greene Community Fitness Center at 7 South Canal Street in Greene between October 11th & 14th during the infectious period.   Any individual frequenting this establishment during the time indicated below should closely monitor themselves for COVID symptoms, those who exhibit symptoms should self-quarantine and contact their medical provider.  Chenango County Public Health announced their latest COVID 19 statistics today.  Currently they have 47 Active Cases, 230 Quarantines with 2 hospitalizations.  They have had 347 Total Confirmed Cases, 253 Total Recoveries, 7 deaths & they have conducted over 33,900 tests, more information is available at 337-1660.

Early voting begins tomorrow around the region.  Area Counties have different times & locations for early voting from tomorrow through November 1st, contact your county Board of Elections for specific dates & times.

A.M. NEWS FRIDAY 10-23-20

Broome County Health Department announced that they have 103 new COVID 19 cases and 55 recoveries, the county's active cases up to 646.  There was another death reported, bringing the county's death count up to 89, the number of people hospitalized went up by 5 to a total of 19.  The total number of cases is up to 3060, 2325 have recovered.  The County has a 3.7% positivity rate; it's over 9% in the state designated "Yellow" zone.

Otsego County Department of Health reported 10 new cases of COVID 19 Thursday; they are investigating a cluster of cases that originated at a wedding that has now spread into the community.  Current COVID numbers, they report 952 total confirmed cases, 27 active cases with  2 hospitalizations, they've had 7 deaths,  747 probable and confirmed cases linked to SUNY Oneonta &  Hartwick College reported 2 more cases of COVID-19 have been detected, they have 3 active cases on campus; the total number of cases is 24.

The Bainbridge Chamber of Commerce will hold their "Commitment to Community" Annual Dinner Saturday Night.  The guest Speakers will be Kerri Green of Commerce Chenango & Assemblyman Cliff Crouch, at Club 55 on Union Street in Sidney.  The Chamber will honor their Citizen of the Year award winner Roy Nabinger, their Business of the Year; My Home Gym, The Business of Distinction award goes to John’s Garage and the Service Organization of the Year is The Bainbridge Lion’s Club.

The Broome County Health Department reported 2825 COVID 19 cases on Monday, an increase of more than 200 since last Thursday.  They report 86 deaths, 2176 recoveries, the Health Department is monitoring over 4600 people.

The Bainbridge Chamber of Commerce "Commitment to Community Dinner" tickets are on sale until Tuesday, October 20th at Bob's Diner.   The Guest Speakers will be Kerri Green; President & CEO of Commerce Chenango & Assemblyman Cliff Crouch.  The dinner will begin at 6:00 on SATURDAY, OCTOBER 24, at Club 55, on Union Street, Sidney, more information is available at 967-8700.

Governor Cuomo announced that movie theaters outside of New York City can reopen at 25 percent capacity under state guidance starting October 23. No more than 50 people are allowed in front of each screen in each movie theater at once. Theaters can only open outside of New York City in counties that have COVID-19 positivity rates of less than 2 percent on a 14-day average and do not have any cluster zones.   Theaters cannot reopen in Broome County due to their current cluster situation.

Otsego County Department of Health announced 2 new COVID 19 cases; both are in SUNY Oneonta students. Otsego County reports 927 total confirmed cases, 8 active cases, 2 hospitalizations, 7 deaths, there are 744 probable and confirmed cases linked to SUNY Oneonta & 21 confirmed cases in Hartwick College students

P.M. NEWS WEDNESDAY 10-7-20

Governor Cuomo announced the "Crush The Cluster" initiative Tuesday, as more than 20 zip codes around the state have clusters of COVID 19 cases & more than 5% of the people tested, were positive for the virus:

(Cuomo 10-7-20)

The Governor announced that a section of Binghamton was one of the cluster hot spots in the state, A former BC Transit bus has been outfitted with a lab, to test people all over the Broome County for the virus if they are exhibiting symptoms.

The Broome County Health department reported another 114 positive cases of COVID 19 Wednesday, giving them a total of 2043 cases. Broome County Health Department reported another COVID death, giving them 83 since March; they have had 1420 recoveries and are monitoring 2363 people.

Former State Senate Majority Leader Joe Bruno has died. Bruno led the state Senate for 14 years, before being convicted on corruption charges, which were later overturned on appeal. Bruno died of Prostate Cancer, he was 91.

A.M. NEWS WEDNESDAY 10-7-20

Governor Cuomo announced that New Mexico has been added to New York State's COVID-19 travel advisory. No areas have been removed. The advisory requires individuals who have traveled to New York from areas with significant community spread to quarantine for 14 days. The full list is available at coronavirus.health.ny.gov.

Otsego County Department of Health reported 2 new cases reported Tuesday; both are close contacts of positive cases. The Department is investigating a cluster of 7 positive cases related to a wedding, which was not held in Otsego County, all contacts have been notified & put on quarantine. Otsego County reports a total of 912 confirmed cases; there are 30 active cases with 1 hospitalization. There have been 7 deaths, 731 cases are linked to SUNY Oneonta & 20 confirmed cases are in Hartwick College students.

Chenango County Sheriff's Department arrested 2 Norwich for allegedly stealing 8 Catalytic Converters from cars at a Norwich Dealership. 35 year old Paul Knuth Jr. & 36 year old Samuel Furlong were charged with 3rd degree Grand Larceny, Criminal Mischief & conspiracy, for removing the Converters selling them, causing about $11,000 damage to the vehicles, both were issued appearance tickets for town of Norwich Court at a later date.

A.M. NEWS THURSDAY 9-17-20

Binghamton Police have arrested 28-year-old Macoley Saunders of Binghamton on charges of Attempted murder, criminal use of a firearm, Criminal possession of a firearm, Assault & Resisting arrest, plus charges relating to a domestic dispute in July. Saunders was located riding on the back of a motorcycle on Main Street in Johnson City. He led police on a pursuit on Route 17 going the wrong way in an attempt to evade police, Eventually, Saunders led police on a foot chase. A Binghamton K9 was able to take him down, a struggled ensued, and Saunders was able to fire one shot toward police officers before being disarmed. Saunders is currently being held in the Broome County Jail.

The Catholic Charities community food distribution will be held Today in Sidney. Those who would like to volunteer should arrive to the Sidney Fire department site on River Street by 8:30 AM Thursday, and the food giveaway begins at 10:00 AM. People are requested to come by car, but walk ups will also be allowed, more information is available at 604-4071.

Otsego County Department of Health reported 4 new cases of COVID 19 were reported Wednesday, 2 SUNY Oneonta students, 1 Hartwick student and 1 resident. The County's Current COVID numbers: 686 confirmed cases linked to SUNY Oneonta, 16 confirmed cases in Hartwick College students, there are 34 active cases residing in the county, there have been 848 total confirmed cases & there is 1 hospitalization.

Broome County Health Department reports 1315 total cases of COVID 19 Wednesday with 82 deaths, 1185 recoveries, 607 are being monitored by the Department, they have conducted over 46,000 tests.

Hartwick College will return to offering face-to-face as well as remote instruction on Wednesday, after a voluntary and precautionary 2-week, remote-only period. The college went to remote-only instruction following the COVID 19 outbreak at nearby SUNY Oneonta. Hartwick officials said that they had 12 total infection & the known active cases is 7 among Hartwick students, there were no infections to staff. Students who studied off campus for these two weeks will be invited to return on an appointment-only basis from September 16 through September 23; Returning students are required to complete a pre-arrival form, provide proof of a negative COVID test result from a test taken within 72 hours prior to their arrival, and be tested again upon arrival. More information is available at hartwick.edu.

The Midstate Athletic Conference voted to postpone all interscholastic athletics until January 4th, 2021, Upon the start of athletics in January, the MAC will follow the New York State Public High School Athletic Associations scheduled for condensed seasons for winter sports, Fall Sports then spring sports. Mac officials are hopeful that all athletic seasons will be able to be completed in their entirety. The Mac will continue its work to prepare for successful seasons & the will coordinate with state Public High Schools Athletic Associations officials, Section 4, local health departments & government authorities.

SUNY Oneonta announced that there were no new cases of COVID-19 Sunday. The total number of confirmed cases within the campus community is 723, currently, 10 students who have tested positive are in isolation on campus and 31 students are in quarantine on campus awaiting test results.

The Broome County Health Department announced their COVID 19 numbers this afternoon, they report 1307 cases since March, they have had 82 deaths, 1161 recoveries, the Department is monitoring 505 people, and they have conducted more than 46,000 tests.

The Broome County Health Department announced Friday that they are reporting a total of 1293 COVID 19 cases since March.  They now report 82 deaths, 1149 recoveries, 423 are being monitored by the Health Department, and they have conducted over 46,000 tests.

The Community Foundation for South Central New York has released the results of their most recent survey of the needs of local non-profits as they continue to respond to the COVID-19 Pandemic. In August, as a follow-up to an earlier survey done, the Foundation surveyed local organizations including non-profits, school districts, economic development agencies and others, 111 responded with ongoing concerns about lost revenue, cash flow, the mental health of employees and clients, and the expectation that their circumstances will likely be worse in 2021.  More information about the Foundation can be found on its website at www.donorswhocare.org.

Broome County Executive Jason Garnar submitted his proposed county budget by Zoom Thursday.  Broome County is facing hard economic times due to the economic shutdown following the COVID 19 pandemic earlier this year, a no -frills budget with a small tax decrease was forwarded by Garnar for consideration by the Broome County Legislature, all New York Counties are waiting to see if the next federal COVID relief package will finally contain aid to state & local governments.

The Board of Directors for the Village Bountiful have decided that they will open their new market in the Willow Bend Plaza at 1004 State Highway 7 in Unadilla later this month, Spokesperson Jakkie Bickos explains:

(Jakkie Bickos 9-11-20)

Bickos said that more information about the store or membership is available at villagebountiful.com.

A.M. NEWS FRIDAY 9-11-20

Otsego County Department of Health continues to investigate a large outbreak of Coronavirus involving SUNY Oneonta.  Over the past 2 days 14 new cases have been reported. Currently, there are 829 total confirmed cases with 665 cases linked to SUNY Oneonta, there were 11 confirmed cases in Hartwick College, and 2 have since recovered.  268 active cases are currently residing in the county, and there are no hospitalizations.

The American Red Cross is hosting a "Never Forget 9/11" Blood Drive today at the Broome County Veterans Memorial Arena.  All Blood types are needed; the drive runs from 12:00 PM - 06:00 PM, Appointments can be made at redcrossblood.org.

P.M. NEWS TUESDAY 9-8-20

Governor Cuomo gave a COVID 19 update today, where he first discussed the regulations regarding Colleges:

(Cuomo Colleges)

The Governor also discussed the COVID report card for K-12 School districts:

(Cuomo K-12)

The COVID-19 Report Card will be live at schoolcovidreportcard.health.ny.gov. The Governor also announced that 4 states: Delaware, Maryland, Ohio and West Virginia have been added to the State's COVID-19 travel advisory. Puerto Rico and the United States Virgin Islands have been removed. The advisory requires individuals who have traveled to New York from areas with significant community spread to quarantine for 14 days.

The Broome County Health Department reported that they have had 1265 positive COVD cases since March, they reported 1 more deaths since Friday, with a death toll of 80 1132 have recovered, and 353 are being monitored by the health department, they have conducted over 45,200 tests.

A.M. NEWS TUESDAY 9-8-20

Otsego County Department of Health continues to investigate a large outbreak of Coronavirus involving SUNY Oneonta.  On Monday, 32 new cases were reported, 31 of the cases are linked to SUNY Oneonta, 1 case in not connected to the college outbreaks.  Currently, 139 students are isolating on campus and 43 students are in quarantine on campus awaiting test results. Current COVID numbers, there have been  807 total confirmed cases,  685 confirmed cases linked to SUNY Oneonta,  11 confirmed cases in Hartwick College students,  8 linked to the high school gathering, there are no hospitalizations currently.

Governor Cuomo and SUNY Chancellor Jim Malatras announced the launch of a SUNY system-wide COVID-19 case tracker dashboard. The centralized dashboard will provide real time, up-to-date information on COVID-19 cases, testing, and quarantine and isolation space availability across SUNY's 64 colleges and universities to more efficiently monitor, respond to, and contain the virus.

P.M. NEWS FRIDAY 8-28-20

Governor Cuomo & the State Health Department are anticipating clusters of COVID 19 cases as college students return to campuses across the state.  The Health Department issued guidance that establishes a threshold, where if a college experiences 100 COVID cases or an outbreak equal to 5% of its student body, whichever is less, that college MUST go to remote learning for 2 weeks. If the local health department finds after the 2 week period, that the college cannot contain the number of cases, and then further remote learning could be required, the guidance for colleges is available at governor.ny.gov.

The Sidney community rallied behind the Sidney Police Department with a fundraising campaign that allowed for the purchase of a storage unit at the Police Departments firing range, about a mile away from their station.  Erin Insinga of the Delaware Valley Humane Society was one of the people involved in the fundraiser:

(Erin Insinga 8-28-20)

The Sidney Police Department now has their shed to store all the training accessories; a picnic table has also been donated for their site.

2 Broome County residents have been arrested following a break-in that occurred at a residence on Wilson Hill Road in the town of Chenango. Troopers arrested 28 year old Christina Martinez of Johnson City for the Criminal Possession of Stolen Property, She was processed and released on appearance tickets to the village of Johnson City court, on Thursday State Police arrested 44 year old Jamie Levene of Binghamton for 2nd degree Burglary, he was already at the Broome County Jail for an unrelated crime with another agency.  He was transported to SP Binghamton for processing and then returned to the Broome County Jail.

The Broome County Health Department announced that Friday that they were up to 1102 COVID 19 cases, with 74 deaths, 926 recoveries & 496 are being monitored by the Health Department they have conducted over 32,600 tests since March.

Chenango County Public Health announced that they had no new COVID 19 positive tests Thursday, they have had 218 total cases since March, there are 96 people under quarantine, 1 person is hospitalized, there have been 197 recoveries, and they have performed just under 19,000 tests.

The Oneonta City School District has posted their extensive District Re-opening plan on their website.  With the expected influx of college students coming from all over the country to Oneonta, the district announced that they will remain in the remote learning environment to start the 2020-2021 school year; they will reevaluate that model when they approach the Interim Progress Report period of October 9th.

The Afton Central School district announced that there will be a remote Special Community Meeting today at 2:00 PM; the link to the virtual meeting is available on the district website.  Afton Superintendent Tim McNamara told WCDO News what their plans are for students for the fall:

(Tim McNamara 8-14-20)

McNamara said that on August 21 at 9:00 A.M. there will be a special live presentation in the Margery Secrest Memorial Auditorium and available remotely by clicking Special Community Meeting on the school website. The district's reopening plan is also available on the district website.

The Empire 8 Athletic Conference Presidents Council today announced the postponement of all fall athletic competition for the 2020 season due to the ongoing impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. As a member of the Empire 8, Hartwick College affected teams include men’s football, men’s and women’s soccer, men’s and women’s cross country, women’s field hockey, women’s tennis, and women’s volleyball.

The Unadilla Summer Concert series will begin tonight at the Community House Lawn starting at 6:30 PM.  The concert is free & will feature Country Express, face Masks and social distancing is required.

The Binghamton Devils have teamed up with the American Red Cross and Broome County Executive Jason Garnar to host a blood drive, which will take place on Tuesday, July 28 from 11:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. at the Broome County Arena.  Every fan who donates blood will receive a voucher for a Binghamton Devils merchandise gift card for the 2020-21 season, to make an appointment, visit RedCrossBlood.org, call 1-800-RED CROSS or download the Blood Donor App.

Broome County Health Department reported that they are up to 815 Coronavirus cases, with 58 deaths, 632 recoveries and 465 people are being monitored by the Health Department.  They have conducted over 23,700 tests.

The Broome County Special Investigations Unit Task Force
executed a narcotics search warrant Wednesday in Binghamton; they arrested 32
year old Christopher Fox on a variety of Drug charges.  Officers seized 24 grams of Fentanyl, plus
marijuana, drug packaging materials and approximately $ 7,400 in cash from
suspected drug sales.  Fox was arraigned
& was remanded to the Broome County Jail pending future court action

The Franklin Railroad & Community Museum announced that
they will raise money for Helios Care, with their Sports Memorabilia Auctions
this month & Bids can be placed by calling 829-2692. The Museum on Main
Street in Franklin will be open this Saturday from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM, the
winning auction bids will be announced on December 29th.

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

Hartwick College will host its First Year Seminar Symposium
today 4:00 to 5:30 PM in the Library at Yager Hall. The event, which is free
and open to the public, will provide an opportunity for first-year students to
show off their work, ranging from research about political change to displays
of visual and performing arts. Appetizers, desserts, and beverages will be available
for all participants and guests.

State Police arrested 59-year-old Carl Pritchard of Exeter
for overdriving, torturing and injuring animals; failure to provide proper
sustenance and failure to provide appropriate shelter for dogs left
outside.  K. Pritchard was arrested after
Troopers responded to a complaint from a UPS driver who observed a dog whose
left leg appeared to be missing, The Susquehanna SPCA responded and a
veterinarian was contacted, who believed that Zoe had chewed off her own leg
after they observed bone fragments in her stomach, she also had previous
untreated injuries and scarred ear tips.
Zoe was transported to Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine
for further care.  Pritchard surrender
Zoe due to his inability to pay for any vet bills, he is due to appear in the
town of Exeter court on December 4th.

2 unidentified people were arrested Monday night at
Binghamton University, following protests of republican Economist Arthur
Laffer, who was scheduled to give a speech on campus after being invited to
speak by College Republicans.  Laffer was
not able to deliver his speech; the protest came 2 days after an outside
protest on the campus following a separate event, also by College
Republicans.    State Senator Fred Akshar
announced that he has cancelled his planned visit tonight to Binghamton
University’s campus; he extended an invitation to the leaders of the Binghamton
University College Progressives, College Democrats and the College Republicans
to meet to discuss the incidents.

Sunday night, the Deposit Fire Department and Eastern Broome
Emergency Services were dispatched to a motor vehicle accident where the
vehicle involved had gone into a creek in the Town of Sanford. The sole
occupant of the vehicle was able to get out of the vehicle and water prior to
our arrival. The occupant sustained injuries as a result of the accident and
was transported to a local hospital for treatment.

The Delaware County Chamber of Commerce announced their
"Community Heroes Awards” are George Bergleitner, of Delaware County Real
Estate of Stamford,   Eric Wedemeyer,
founding broker of Coldwell Banker Timberland Properties, & Patty Wood of
the Walton Town Council.  A reception
will be held tonight from 5:30 - 7 p.m., at the Delaware County Historical
Association at 46549 State Highway 10, Delhi, more information is available at
delawarecounty.org or at 746-2281.

Following a recent
inspection, State DOT engineers are recommending immediate repairs with a
temporary closure and 5-ton weight restriction on the large culvert carrying
State Route 80 over Hayden Creek in the Town of Springfield in Otsego
County.  A new traffic pattern consists
of a 1-lane, 2-way operation controlled by a temporary traffic signal. Traffic
information is available at 511NY.org.

Congressman Anthony Brindisi is hosting a Veterans
Resource Fair Today at the SUNY Broome Community College West Gymnasium from
3:30 PM to 6:30 PM, to connect Southern Tier Veterans with resources and
services.  More than a dozen
organizations will be in attendance including Clear Path for Veterans, the
Southern Tier Veterans Support Group, representatives from the VA, More
information is available at Congressman Brindisi’s Binghamton office at
242-0200.

The Broome County Sheriff’s Office Detective Division
arrested 18 year old Crystal Green of the Town of Chenango, 18 year old Justin
Gumaer of Deposit and 17 year old Jayden Howe of Binghamton, following a
traffic stop Friday in Binghamton.  Green
and Gumaer have been charged with Hindering Prosecution, Obstructing
Governmental Administration & Criminal Possession of Marijuana. While being
taken into custody, Green physically resisted and was charged with Resisting
Arrest.  Howe was taken into custody on
an active Probation Warrant. Green, Gumaer and Howe are currently in the
custody of the Broome County Sheriff’s Office.

The Bainbridge Chamber of Commerce announced that they will
hold their annual Commitment to Community Dinner Saturday at 6:00 PM at the
Sundown Golf & Country Club in Guilford.
The CITIZEN OF THE YEAR award will go to   MATTHEW GERMOND, the BUSINESS OF THE YEAR
award goes to GALAXY BOWL & the SERVICE ORGANIZATION RECOGNITION award goes
to the JERICHO GARDEN CLUB.

On Friday, Members of the Broome County Special
Investigations Unit Task Force executed a narcotics search warrant at 132 Main
St in the City of Binghamton. Investigators recovered: approximately an ounce
of Crystal Methamphetamine, drug packaging materials and approximately $5,000
in suspected drug sale proceeds.
Investigators charged Timothy Bell and Stephanie Starks on numerous drug
charges, they were held at the Binghamton Police Department awaiting
arraignment in Binghamton City Court. Starks is additionally being held on a
Petit Larceny Warrant out of the Village of Johnson City.

The State Health Department reports that people should be
getting their flu shots soon, as we are entering the start of the traditional
flu season.  There have been 187 flu
cases reported statewide, 100 of them last week, there were no cases reported
in the tri-county region, and 1 in Broome County so far.

Congressman Anthony Brindisi is
hosting a Veterans Resource Fair on November 5th at the SUNY Broome Community
College West Gymnasium from 3:30 PM to 6:30 PM, to connect Southern Tier
Veterans with resources and services, with more than a dozen organizations in
attendance including Clear Path for Veterans, the Southern Tier Veterans
Support Group, representatives from the VA, and more.  Veterans with questions can contact
Congressman Brindisi’s Binghamton office at 607-242-0200.

Chenango County Sheriff’s Deputies responded early Saturday
morning to the call of 1-car motor vehicle accident involving a bicyclist on
State Route 80 in the Town of Columbus.
49 year old Allen Emrich of New Berlin struck the bicyclist, 30 year old
Martin Logsdon Jr, he was  pronounced
deceased at the scene.  Emrich was
operating the vehicle with a blood alcohol content of more than .08% & with
a child in the vehicle he was charged with Vehicular Manslaughter, Aggravated
DWI with a child in the car, Endangering the Welfare of a Child among other
charges, he was arraigned in the Town of Columbus Court & was remanded to
the Chenango County Correctional facility on $2500.00 cash bail. The
investigation is ongoing.

Governor Cuomo today announced the launch of the 3rd
round of the Energy to Lead competition with $5 million available for New York
colleges and universities to lower their carbon footprint & reduce energy
use.  The competition is open to 2 or 4-year
colleges or universities that are REV Campus Challenge members and it is
administered through NYSERDA. Proposals will be accepted through February 20,
2020.  Ongoing projects under previous
rounds include the Broome Community College's "Geothermal Learning
Laboratory" to install a closed loop geothermal system that uses the heat
energy stored in the earth.

The Binghamton Devils will be starting a new season shortly
at the Floyd L. Maines Broome County Arena.
Team practices are being held this week at the Arena; Single-game
tickets are on sale at Binghamton Devils.com, or at the Arena Box Office.  The Devils will open up the 2019-20 season at
home on Saturday, October 5 at 7:05 p.m. against the Utica Comets.

The Afton Community Theater presents "Matilda the
Musical" this weekend. Erin Wehrli is directing the performances of
"Matilda" this weekend:

(Erin Wehrli 9-24-19)

"Matilda The Musical" will be performed Friday
& Saturday nights at 7:00 PM, with Saturday & Sunday Matinees at 2:00
PM, at the Margery Secrest Theater at the Afton Central School.  Tickets are available at
BrownpaperTickets.com.

The 13th annual O’Connor
Hospital Invitational took place on September 18th at The College Golf Course
at Delhi, raising more than $40,000 to support hospital equipment and building
upgrades.  Numerous area businesses
sponsored the event; those interested in sponsoring for next year can call the
Friends of Bassett Healthcare Network office at 547-4799 or email
sheila.lemaster@bassett.org.

The New York Mets Monday announced
the winners of the 2019 Sterling Awards, emblematic of the top minor league
performers in New York’s farm system. Three of the seven honorees spent at
least part of the season with the Binghamton Rumble Ponies.  Mark Vientos was the Hitter of the Year; LHP
Kevin Smith was named Pitcher of the Year; Andrés Giménez was the Mets’
Defender of the Year; and Sam Haggerty was the system’s top baserunner. Haggerty
was a September call up to New York, he scored his first big league run September
6th against Philadelphia.

The
Community Foundation for South Central New York announced a new mini-grant
opportunity for qualified non-profit organizations in Broome, Tioga, Chenango,
Delaware and Otsego counties.   Proposals
may be submitted for projects that support, develop and/or expand the skill set
of young professionals in our region and/or increase their involvement in the
community.  The deadline for applications
is Friday, September 6th.  Details on
submission requirements can be found at donorswhocare.org.

A
new Siena College Poll of registered New York voters found that the majority of
New Yorkers say Governor Cuomo has made the state a better place since he took
office in 2011, the poll also found that his favorability and job performance
ratings currently match record lows.  New
York voters said Cuomo has improved the state by a 51 to 39% margin,  but his favorability ratings of 43% negative
and 50% positive matches his lowest ratings, his job performance rating of 34%
positive and 64% negative is his lowest ever.

The
State Department of Health announced that a proposal for a new Medicaid model
of care serving children throughout the state with complex health needs has
been approved by the federal Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services. The
new model will improve access to Medicaid services and expand Medicaid coverage
to home- and community-based care for more than 6,000 youth under age 21 who
are faced with an array of serious health issues and otherwise could be forced
to live in hospitals and other institutionalized settings.

33 year old Kevin Wilcox of
Harpursville pleaded not guilty to charges of vehicular assault and driving
while impaired by drugs, at his arraignment Tuesday.  Wilcox was arrested following the
investigation into Monday afternoon's incident in Binghamton, where he
allegedly drove onto the sidewalk on Beethoven Street and struck 17-year-old
Harper Stantz and 19-year-old Britney Laserinko.   Both were taken to Wilson Hospital with a
variety of serious injuries, including internal injuries & fractures.  Wilcox is being held in the Broome County
Jail pending future court action.

Jody Zakrevsky, who is the CEO of Otsego Now, will be
holding a series of "town hall" meetings throughout Otsego County in
the coming weeks. The first of these meetings will be held today at Hartwick
College in the Shineman Chapel from 5:30pm - 7:00pm. The second one will be
held on Thursday, at Oneonta Town Hall from 5:00pm - 6:30pm Topics to be
discussed range from grant opportunities available under the next consolidated
funding application process, economic and community development interests, and
energy. Questions and comments from the public are welcomed and encouraged.

Cornell Cooperative Extension will host a Farmers’ Market
Community Meeting at their Hamden office this morning from 9:30-11:30 am.  The goal of this meeting is to create and/or
strengthen relationships among individuals and groups that support farmers’
markets in Delaware County.  More
information is available at 865-6531 or ccedelaware.org.

Broome County District Attorney Steve Cornwell held a press
conference earlier today, regarding the investigation of the shooting involving
Trooper Timothy Conklin & Nicholas Philhower on January 28th, when Conklin
attempted to apprehend Philhower in the town of Kirkwood:

(Steve Cornwell 2-18-19)

Cornwell state that Trooper Conklin responded to the report
of a stolen Nissan that Philhower took from his mother without permission, and
she reported the car stolen.   Philhower
was pronounced dead at the scene, Trooper Conklin was treated for an arm wound,
he will return to duty this week, and Trooper Conklin’s actions have been ruled
as justified.

Governor Cuomo announced plans to close up to 3 correctional
facilities following record reductions in the State's incarcerated population
and reported crime.  The Department of
Corrections and Community Supervision will select the prisons, transition staff
and incarcerated individuals, and cease facility operations by no later than
September 1st.   Since 2011, the prison
population has declined by nearly 10,000 or 16.7% from 56,419 to 46,973 people,
currently.

The Delaware County Chamber of Commerce will hold Job and
Resource Fairs on Wednesday, April 10th from 11:00 am to 3:30 pm at ONC BOCES
in Grand Gorge and on Thursday, April 11 at DCMO BOCES Harrold Campus in
Masonville.  Employers will be connected
to a viable workforce consisting of recent high school and college graduates as
well as adults who are eager to obtain employment.   There is no fee to participate, but
registration is required.  To register or
to obtain more information, go to delawarecounty.org or call 746-2281.

On January 20th troopers were dispatched to a possible
overdose in a vehicle parked in Dollar General on North Road in the town of
Windsor.  Troopers observed both
occupants passed out, they were assessed by paramedics & were charged with
a variety of drug & other charges.  Arrested
were 24 year old Caitlynn Rhodes of Colesville, & 24 year old Tieler
Kennerup of Windsor, they were arraigned at Broome County Central Arraignment
and Processing.  Kennerup was released on
his own recognizance and Rhodes was remanded to the Broome County Jail without
bail.

A new survey by the Commission on Independent Colleges and
Universities reports that Hartwick College generated an estimated $123 million
in total economic impact on the region in 2017. More than $49 million was a
result of direct spending by the institution.
Also noted in the survey, Hartwick College accounted for $5.4 million in
average annual construction spending, up $700,000 from the previous survey in
2015. In 2017, the College opened its new $7.1 million living-learning
apartment community on campus, which houses 72 upper-class students.

Broome County District Attorney Stephen Cornwell has
announced today he will not seek re-election to the office for a 2nd 4 year
term.   Cornwell defeated long-time
District Attorney Gerald Mollen in 2015.

The City of Oneonta has been
designated as a "Clean Energy Community" by NYSERDA, for reducing
energy use, cutting costs and driving clean energy locally.  The City received the designation for
completing 4 of 10 high-impact clean energy actions identified by NYSERDA as
part of the Clean Energy Communities initiative. In addition, the designation
gives the City an opportunity to apply for up to $5,000 toward additional clean
energy projects, with no local cost share.

State Police arrested 34 year old Justin Wilson of Colesville for Criminal Mischief, Menacing and Endangering the Welfare of a Child. Wilson got in to a verbal argument with a victim, damaged a television and entertainment center and damaged a vehicle, in the presence of a 2 and 3 year-old. Wilson was arraigned at Broome County Central Arraignment and Processing and released on his own recognizance. An order of protection was issued to the victim.

THE UNATEGO GIRLS SOCCER TEAM CAPTURED THE 2018 SECTION 4 CLASS-C CHAMPIONSHIP LAST NIGHT WITH A 2-1 VICTORY OVER TOP RANKED GROTON. MORGAN PERRY HAD THE GAME WINNING GOAL AND DANA STEPP SCORED THE OTHER GOAL FOR THE SPARTANS. LONG TIME UNATEGO COACH SUE HERODES SAID IT WAS A GREAT TEAM EFFORT TO CAPTURE THE PROGRAMS FIRST SECTIONAL TITLE SINCE 2012...

(Sue Herodes 10-30-18)

UNATEGO ADVANCES TO PLAY SECTION 3 CHAMPION LITTLE FALLS IN THE NEW YORK STATE TOURNAMENT THIS FRIDAY AT 7:30 PM AT HERKIMER COUNTY COMMUNITY COLLEGE

Hartwick College officials revealed today that 1 of their graduates was a victim of the Schoharie crash that killed 20 on Saturday. Officials said that class of 2015 graduate
Savannah Bursese was killed Saturday in the Schoharie Limousine crash; she earned Bachelor of Arts degrees in both Political Science and Business Administration.
State Police & The NTSB are still investigating the circumstances that led up to the crash.

The Broome-Endicott Swat Team executed a narcotics search warrant for the Broome County Special Investigations Unit Task Force on East Windsor Road in Nineveh
today; they arrested 24 year old Marissa Price of Port Crane for Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance, Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance, Criminal
Possession of Marihuana & Criminally Using Drug Paraphernalia. Officers seized 7 grams of Methamphetamine, 5 ounces of Marijuana, prescription pills, Digital scales
and drug packaging materials as well as 5 shotguns and rifles & $5,188 in cash from suspected drug sales. Price was arraigned in the Town of Colesville Court today and
was remanded to the custody of the Broome County Sheriff’s Correctional Facility without bail.

3 New York State agencies; the Office of Alcoholism and Substance Abuse Services, the Office of Mental Health and the Department of Financial Services, announced a
new program to help ensure all New Yorkers are able to access their insurance coverage for substance use disorders and mental health services. The Community
Health Access to Addiction and Mental Healthcare Project will educate individuals, families, and health care providers on their legal rights to coverage, help them to
access treatment and services and will investigate and resolve complaints regarding denial of health insurance coverage. more information is available at 888-614-5400.

The Federal Emergency Management Agency announced today that federal disaster assistance has been made available to New York to supplement state, and eligible tribal and local recovery efforts in the areas affected by severe storms and flooding on August 13th to August 15th. Federal funding is available to state, and eligible tribal and local governments, and certain private nonprofit organizations on a cost-sharing basis for emergency work and the repair or replacement of facilities damaged by the severe storms and flooding in 7 area counties, including Broome, Chenango, & Delaware counties.

The latest Sienna Poll has Governor Cuomo ahead of Republican challenger Marcus Molinaro by a 50 to 28% margin, with Working Families Party candidate Cynthia Nixon at 10% and 3 other candidates with a combined support of 4% & 8% were still undecided. The latest Siena College poll also has incumbent US Senator Kirsten Gillibrand ahead of Republican challenger Chele Farley by a 61 to 29% margin. In the race for Attorney General, Democrat Letitia James leads Republican Keith Wofford 50 to 36%.

This Friday, Hartwick College will celebrate the 75th anniversary of the College's Nursing Program, which has graduated over 1,500 graduates into the profession. On Friday, Hartwick College will host an all-day symposium, after a welcome at Yager Hall, 4 seminars will be offered throughout the morning, at 3:00 PM, the College will unveil a new 11-bed nursing simulation unit housed in Smith Hall and funded by grants from the Clark Foundation and an additional private foundation. Registration information and the full event schedule is available at Hartwick.edu.

Governor Cuomo today announced that the Raise the Age law is now in effect, it removes 16-year-olds who have committed a criminal act from the adult criminal justice system and places them in age-appropriate settings. 16-year-olds who are arrested for non-violent offenses will have the same opportunities for diversion and community-based services as youth 15 and under. 16-year-olds charged with serious offenses will be processed as adolescent offenders in a Youth Part of criminal court and placed in specialized secure detention facilities for adolescents instead of adult jails.

A.O. Fox Hospital is co-hosting a special panel discussion event at Hartwick College’s Slade Theatre in Yager Hall today from 3:30 to 5:00 PM, Community agencies, law enforcement, crisis counselors, survivors, & A.O. Fox’s Emergency Department will facilitate a candid conversation about sexual assault, more information is available at 431-5180.

Governor Cuomo announced a joint effort by state agencies to crack down on underage drinking on college campuses and in college towns as the fall semester begins. The State Liquor Authority and the State DMV, working with local law enforcement agencies, will conduct statewide sweeps of locations holding liquor licenses, including bars, restaurants, liquor stores and grocery stores, looking for fake IDs and illegal sales to minors. The combined enforcement effort will begin immediately, Persons under the age of 21 found to be using fake IDs or false documents with the intent of purchasing alcohol can be arrested and have their license revoked for a minimum of 90 days or up to one year. Businesses charged by the State Liquor Authority with underage sales face civil penalties of up to $10,000 per violation, and repeat offenders also face potential suspension or revocation of their liquor licenses.

State Police arrested 32 Year Old Brent Fallon of Endwell for Unlawful Manufacture of Methamphetamine, following an explosion & fully engulfed house fire on Wayne Street Sunday. Broome County fire investigators and State Police revealed that the basement had precursors for the manufacture of methamphetamine. Fallon was arrested and released on an appearance ticket returnable to the town Union Court on September 4th.

Commerce Chenango and the Hamilton Business Alliance will celebrate the 50th anniversary of Rogers Environmental Education Center. Business and community leaders are invited to attend the “Business After Hours” event from 5:00 to 7:00 PM at Rogers Environmental Education Center on Route 80 in Sherburne.

Democratic Party Congressional Candidate Anthony Brindisi has agreed to 6 debates throughout the 22nd district ahead of the November election. The League of Women Voters of Broome and Tioga Counties debate has been scheduled for November 1st at the PBS Media Studios in Vestal from 8:00 - 9:00 PM. The League of Women Voters of Cortland County debate will take place on September 22 at the Elks Lodge in Cortland from 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM. Details are still being worked out for the remaining 4 debates, as well as for debates with other organizations.

The Hartwick College experience begins today for new students, who began the check-in process this morning & moved into residence halls and attended Welcome Weekend activities and events, to acclimate them to the college environment. Returning student move-in begins at Sunday, August 26th, the full schedule of events for the opening week is available at Hartwick.edu.

The last concert at the Don Clayton Memorial Trailside Concert Series in Sidney will feature the Sidney Community Band Tonight. The concert will begin at 6:30 under the pavilion at Keith Clark Park on River Street; the concert is free and open to the public,