WCDO Radio News

P.M. NEWS TUESDAY 12-1-20

State Police arrested 29 year old Norman Shaheen of Smithville following a raid on his residence last week.  Police seized 339 grams of methamphetamine, as well as a shotgun, a handgun, drug paraphernalia & packaging materials, he was charged with criminal possession with intent to distribute a controlled substance and possession of firearms, he is being held in jail pending court proceedings.

Delaware County Sheriff's Deputies responded Saturday to a residence on State Highway 28 in the Town of Delhi to execute a State Parole Warrant; they arrested 23-year-old Jonathon Stein of Delhi, on the Parole Warrant as well as for Criminal Possession of a Hypodermic Instrument when the warrant was executed.  Stein was remanded to the Delaware County Correctional Facility without bail on the Parole Warrant.

U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand urged Congress to invest $6 billion in the WIC program in the Fiscal Year 2021 Agriculture Appropriations bill.

(Gillibrand 12-1-20)

New York State WIC providers have reported 3% increased need since the pandemic began many other states were well into the double digits in increased need for WIC's services.

Chenango County Public Health announced that they had 52 active cases of COVID 19 today, with 5 people hospitalized & 295 quarantined.  Chenango County has had 643 cases of the virus since March with 564 recoveries; they have performed over 45200 tests.

The Latest vote count in the 22nd Congressional District has now swung back to give Republican Claudia Tenney the lead over incumbent Democrat Anthony Brindisi.  All of the Counties have to certify their vote totals, State Supreme Court Justice Scott DelConte ordered each of the 8 counties in the congressional district to submit a final, unofficial count to the court by yesterday afternoon, the next court action is expected next Monday December 7th, when Judge DelConte is expected to rule on

2000 disputed ballots.

A.M. NEWS TUESDAY 12-1-20

Governor Cuomo today announced New York's annual statewide holiday donation drive to benefit families in need across the state begins today.  Donations of new unwrapped toys, coats and school supplies are being sought to assist community-based organizations during the holiday giving season.  The Office of General Services has set up drop-off locations across the state through Wednesday, December 16.  COVID-19 protocols will be in place to ensure the safety of those dropping off donations including masks, social distancing, and access to hand sanitizer.  The drop-off locations include the Binghamton State Office Building, 44 Hawley St., Binghamton & the Homer Folks Facility, 28 Hill Street Oneonta.

Lieutenant Governor Kathy Hochul Visits the Chenango County Historical Society Museum and she will visit Businesses Downtown Norwich today, Hochul’s visit will start around 1:45 PM.

Delaware County Public Health released their latest COVID 19 numbers Monday, they report 14 new cases, they have 71 active cases, 4 people are hospitalized, 234 are quarantined, and they have had 372 cases since March with 9 deaths & 292 recoveries.

Otsego County Department of Health reported 19 new COVID cases Monday, bringing them to 1314 total confirmed cases since March.  There are 89 active cases, 4 are hospitalized there have been 8 deaths, 764 cases are linked to SUNY Oneonta & 71 to Hartwick College.

P.M. NEWS MONDAY 11-23-20

The Health Department continues to aggressively test New Yorkers for the COVID 19 virus, with over 191,000 tested on Sunday, with 5906 positive tests, or 3% of those tested.  2724 people are hospitalized; increases of 162 from Saturday, there were 33 more deaths from the virus Sunday, bringing the state death toll to 26,390.

Chenango County Public Health continues to see an increase in COVID 19 cases.  They currently have 62 active cases, with 399 people quarantined.  They have had 10 deaths, 486 recoveries; they have had a total of 563 cases since March.

The Broome County Health Department had 179 more positive cases of COVID 19 diagnosed since Friday, bringing their total to 4744 since March, they had 2 more deaths reported, bringing their total to 114, there have been 4089 recoveries and over 4200 are being monitored by the Health Department.

Delaware County sheriff's Deputies arrested 41 year old Robert Stutzer of Sidney for 2 felonies.  On November 13th Deputies responded to the Mirabito Gas Station in Hobart for a report of a male subject passed out behind the wheel of a motor vehicle, Deputies identified the driver as Stutzer, who is accused of operating the vehicle while impaired by drugs, and with suspend drivers’ license.   Stutzer was charged with Felony driving while ability impaired by drugs, and felony aggravated unlicensed operation of a Motor Vehicle, he was released on tickets returnable to Stamford Town Court at a later date.

The SUNY Oneonta COVID Response Team gathered feedback and answered questions about the college’s Draft Re-opening Plan for spring 2021 at 2 virtual town halls last week.   SUNY Oneonta Acting President Dennis Craig told WCDO News that the plan is largely in place but will be amended as needed:

(Dennis Craig 11-23-20)

Over 750 staff, faculty, students and their parents participated. The recordings of both town halls are available at suny.oneonta.edu/covid-19 regarding the spring 2021 reopening plan.

State Comptroller Tom DiNapoli announced that New York State leads the nation in what it pays to the federal government compared to what it gets back from Washington. New York taxpayers paid $23.7 billion more in federal taxes than the state received in federal spending in federal fiscal year 2019, for every tax dollar paid to Washington; the state received $0.91, well below the national average of $1.24. New Mexico gets the most value at $2.83 per tax dollar paid, followed by Mississippi ($2.50), West Virginia ($2.43), Alabama ($2.17) and Kentucky ($2.05).

O’Connor Hospital in Delhi is hosting a special drive-through parade for families to visit Santa Claus on Saturday, December 5, from 11:00 AN to 12:00 Noon. The event will be an alternative to Delhi’s traditional holiday parade, Vehicles will drive around the front upper parking lot of O’Connor Hospital, and more information is available on Facebook or by calling 746-0331.

The Sidney Central School District has been notified that 2 members of the District community have tested positive for COVID-19. The first individual has not been on campus since Thursday, November 12th and the second individual since last Friday, November 20th.  The Department of Health Services has conducted and completed the contact tracing. Any and all people impacted have been notified. The potential exposure has been minimized in this case because of the emphasis placed on wearing face coverings and social distancing; there will be no change to the current Sidney School Schedule.

A.M. NEWS MONDAY 11-23-20

Governor Cuomo held a COVID 19 briefing in New York City Sunday; he stated that the current concern will be how high the infection rates will get after Thanksgiving & the Christmas holidays:

(Cuomo 11-23-20)

The state performed over 196,608 tests Saturday, with 5391 positive tests, 2562 are now hospitalized, 500 are in an ICU Bed, 234 are on ventilators & there were 30 deaths from COVID Saturday.

Otsego County Department of Health reported 11 new cases of COVID on Saturday & 17 cases Sunday.   Otsego County now has had 1185 total confirmed cases, 93 active cases, 4 hospitalized, 8 deaths, 764 cases are linked to SUNY Oneonta & 71 confirmed cases in Hartwick College students.

Delaware County Public Health announced Saturday that they had 4 new cases of COVID 19 & 7 new cases Sunday, they have 43 active cases, 5 were hospitalized, and 201 were quarantined.  They are up to 308 total cases since March with 9 deaths and 256 recoveries.

Tourism-related dollars spent in Delaware County in 2019 have grown to $121 million, according to a report issued by the Empire State Development Division for Tourism Development, Delaware County Chamber of Commerce President Ray Pucci comments:

(Ray Pucci 11-23-20)

Traveler spending increased 2.5% across of all New York. The strongest growth occurred in the Catskills with a 7.3% increase in spending last year.  Tourism accounted for over 1,145 jobs in Delaware County resulting in $41.7 million in labor income recirculating through the local economy.  Tourism generated more than $7.7 million in local taxes and over $6.6 million in state taxes.

P.M. NEWS THURSDAY 11-19-20

Otsego County Department of Health is announcing a potential COVID 19 exposure at the Copper Fox at 7 Market Street in Oneonta.  Anyone who spent time at the bar between November 12th through November 17th should monitor for symptoms, if you have developed symptoms, get tested and isolate yourself.  The Copper Fox is closed for a minimum of 7 days and all staff will be tested, more information is available at 547-4231.

Chenango County Public Health announced that they have had 518 total cases of COVID 19 since March.  They currently report 55 active cases, 3 hospitalizations & 363 quarantines, they have had 10 deaths, 458 recoveries & over 41,700 tests have been conducted.

Bassett Healthcare Network is tightening visitor restrictions at all of its hospitals and long-term care facilities as COVID-19 cases continue to rise regionally and statewide. Effective Monday, Nov. 23, 2020, only individuals considered essential to the medical care of a patient will be allowed at Bassett Medical Center, Cooperstown; A.O. Fox Hospital, in Sidney & Oneonta; Little Falls Hospital, Cobleskill Regional Hospital, and O’ Connor Hospital in Delhi.   Visitation is also suspended at the Bassett network’s two long-term care facilities and assisted living facilities – A.O. Fox Nursing Home in Oneonta, and Valley Health Services and Valley Residential Services in Herkimer.

The State Health Department reminds New Yorkers that if you get a call from NYS Contact Tracing, answer it.  Contact tracers are working around the clock to trace clusters and inform people who have been in contact with someone who tested positive for COVID. Also, legitimate Tracers will never ask for your Social Security Number or financial information; if someone does, hang up.

Delaware County Sheriff’s Deputies responded to a two-car property damage accident on State Highway 206 in the Town of Colchester last Friday, where a vehicle and trailer driven by 32-year-old Stephen Depuy of Downsville was making a turn from State Highway 206 on to Hill Top Drive when his trailer was struck in the rear by a vehicle driven by 84 year-old Eugene Marner of Franklin.  Deputies charged Depuy with aggravated unlicensed operation of a motor vehicle, and being an unlicensed driver.  Marner was ticketed for speed not reasonable and prudent.  Both drivers were released on traffic summonses directing them to appear in the Town of Colchester Court on a later date to answer their charges.

The 14th annual Benefit Auction of the Greater Oneonta Historical Society takes place online at 32Auctions.com/GOHSBenefitAuction through Saturday. Society Executive Director Bob Brzozowski comments:

(Bob Brzozowski 11-19-20)

Bidding ends on Saturday November 21 at 5:00 PM, more information is available by email at info@OneontaHistory.org or by calling 432-0960.

People have been captivated by the story of the little owl that was transported to New York City from West Oneonta last week, on the Tree that is being set up for the Christmas holidays in Rockefeller Center.  Susan O'Hanley of the Delaware Otsego Audubon Society told WCDO News that they believe that the owl was on the tree through the whole process & made the trip to the city:

(Susan O'Hanley 11-19-20)

O'Hanley said that many have commented to the Society that the Owl should be brought back to West Oneonta, the Society members feel that the additional travel would be too stressful & that he will assimilate to the Owl population in the Hudson Valley.

A.M. NEWS THURSDAY 11-19-20

Otsego County Department of Health reported 18 new COVID cases Wednesday, the number of cases in the county since March is up to 1128, with 58 active cases,  1 hospitalized,  8 deaths,  760 cases are now linked to SUNY Oneonta & 67 at Hartwick College.

Delaware County Public Health had 3 new cases of COVID 19 to report Wednesday, with 53 active cases, 6 are hospitalized, and 197 are quarantined.  Delaware County has had 289 cases, 227 recoveries & 9 deaths.

Oneonta City School District was made aware of a positive COVID-19 staff member at the Oneonta Middle School, several staff members are close contacts to 2 additional positive COVID cases resulting in quarantines through the Thanksgiving break.  All Oneonta schools will go fully remote beginning today through at least Monday, November 30th.

The Norwich High School and Middle School will have remote instruction today, after the District discovered a positive COVID-19 student case at the high school, and a middle school teacher's family member had tested positive.  The buildings will be closed today for contact tracing and deep cleaning, and they are working with Health officials in order to re-open for in-person instruction on Friday.  The Gibson and Browne Elementary schools will remain open, and will follow the normal schedule.

Governor Cuomo, as well as the Governors of surrounding states, announced they will encourage residential colleges and universities in their respective states to provide testing for all students traveling home for Thanksgiving break to the maximum extent possible before they leave campus. Any student who tests positive will be encouraged to isolate on campus before they can travel or detail arrangements of their safe travel home with the local department of health.

Sidney Police responded to a 911 call of a domestic dispute at a business in the Village of Sidney Tuesday, they arrested 43 year old Anthony Fiorillo of Sidney for Criminal contempt, Harassment & Trespassing.  Fiorillo was arraigned in the Village of Sidney court & was released to appear in court at a later date.

State Police are appealing to the public to help locate the driver of a tractor trailer that sideswiped a troop car in Broome County Tuesday night at approximately 6:46 pm.  A trooper was assisting Broome County Sheriff’s with a traffic crash on Interstate 81 northbound near milepost 34.5 in the town of Lisle.  The marked State Police vehicle was on the right side of the road with all of its emergency lights activated when it was sideswiped by a tractor trailer without stopping.  The trooper was not inside the vehicle at the time of the incident.   Anyone that has any information contact State Police at 775-1241.

P.M. NEWS THURSDAY 10-29-20

Hospice & Palliative Care of Chenango County will hold a virtual event as part of their Light Up A Life Holiday event, that was usually held as a live event at NBT in Norwich each Year.  Hospice Spokesperson Sarah Green explains:

(Sarah Greene 10-29-20)

More information about the event or the purchase of ornaments is available by calling Hospice at 334-3556.

The Annual Toys for Tots campaign will be kicking off next week, Delaware County Chamber of Commerce President Ray Pucci comments:

(Ray Pucci 10-29-20)

Pucci said that families in need can contact Delaware Opportunities at 746-1600.

New York State of Health will launch the open enrollment period starting this Sunday November 1st for 2021 Qualified Health Plans.  Consumers can enroll in a health plan calling the Customer Service Center at 1-855-355-5777, Logging onto nystateofhealth.ny.gov, or by Speaking with an enrollment assistor, which can be located at nystateofhealth.ny.gov/agent.

The American Hockey Board of Governors announced that they have moved the anticipated start date of the next season on February 5th 2021, due to the ongoing COVID 19 pandemic.  Further details about the next season will be announced at a later date.

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.

Chenango County Public Health announced 9 more COVID 19 positive cases Thursday, they still have 48 active cases, 278 quarantines, & 6 hospitalized.  They report a total of 397 total cases since March, with 333 recoveries & 7 deaths.

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.

Delaware County Public Health reported 2 new COVID 19 cases Wednesday, they have 19 active cases, 4 hospitalized, 119 quarantined. Delaware County now has 162 total cases, 9 deaths & 134 recoveries.

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 Cancer Services Program 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 are requested at 1-888-345-0225, Colo-rectal cancer screening kits also available for men and women 50 and over.

P.M. NEWS FRIDAY 10-2-20

The State Health Department reported 1598 news cases of COVID 19 Thursday, after more than 119,000 tests were performed statewide.  The state has had over 461,000 positive tests since March; Hospitalizations were up to 648, there were 7 COVID deaths Thursday, giving the state 25497 deaths from the virus.

Chenango County Public Health reports 253 total cases of COVID 19, with 7 Active Cases, 3 Hospitalizations, & 83 Active Quarantines.  Chenango County reports 7 deaths & 229 Recoveries, they have performed over 29200 tests.

The Broome County Health Department announced today that they set a one day record with 78 new COVID cases diagnosed.  9 people are hospitalized, 1682 cases of the virus have been diagnosed in Broome County since March, there have been 82 deaths, and 1296 recoveries.  Health Department official remind residents to wear a mask & be vigilant about Hand washing & social distancing, following a recent spike in the numbers stemming from 2 local establishments.

New York State has released a mobile app that will alert people if they were in close contact with someone who tests positive for coronavirus.  The app is called COVID Alert NY, is voluntary and anonymous.  State officials believe that the app will help with contact tracing, and reduce the risk of infection, by allowing people to quarantine immediately once they are notified of an exposure through the app.

There is still a chance that New York State Lawmakers get called back to act on legislation, Assemblyman Cliff Crouch comments:

(Crouch 10-2-20)

State Officials are waiting to see if any federal aid will come to the states to help with large deficits associated with the pandemic & subsequent shutdown.  Crouch is retiring after this year, Voters will decide between Republican Joe Angelino & Rick Shaw to fill his seat.

Commerce Chenango announced today that Golden Artist Colors has been selected as the Commerce Chenango 2020 Manufacturer of the Year.  The award was announced today as part of national Manufacturing Day, which occurs every year on the first Friday in October.  Golden Artists Colors has been operating in New Berlin since 1980; more information is available at goldenpaints.com.

A.M. NEWS FRIDAY 10-2-20

Delaware County Public Health was notified Thursday of a COVID 19 related death. The County now reports 8 deaths, 110 recoveries and a total of 123 cases since March. Currently there are 5 active cases, no one is hospitalized, and 41 are quarantined.

Otsego County Department of Health reported 2 new cases Thursday, 1 in SUNY Oneonta & 1 in Hartwick College. The County has had 895 total confirmed cases, 21 are active cases with 1 hospitalization, there have been 7 deaths, 723 of the cases are linked to SUNY Oneonta, & 20 confirmed cases are Hartwick College students.

The Raymond Corporation will host a virtual Manufacturing Day experience today from 8:00 AM & 5:00 PM, Raymond’s event will coincide with Manufacturing Day, Raymond senior Director of Operations Tony Topencik said that a lot of students are interested in manufacturing careers again:

(Tony Topencik 10-2-20)

Topencik said students in the past came to the facility, but this year's virtual events is expected to have a lot more students interested than in previous years. More information about the company is available through Raymondcorp.com or through the company's pages on Facebook, Twitter, YouTube and Linked-In.

The Cancer Screening Services mobile screening coach will be at Jerry’s Place Ice Cream in Fly Creek/Hartwick on Sunday from 9:00am-2:30pm to provide NO COST mammograms and Pap tests to women 40 and over. Appointments are requested at 1-888-345-0225, Colorectal cancer screening kits also available for men and women 50 and over.

Delaware County Public Health announced that their next Free Rabies Vaccination Clinic For dogs, cats and ferrets will be held on Thursday October 15, from 5:00 to 7:00 PM at Heart of the Catskills Humane Society, State Route 10 in Delhi. Appointments are required at 832-5200; more information is available at delawarecountypublichealth.com.

State Police responded to a 2-car fatal crash on State Highway 8 in the town of New Berlin Tuesday afternoon at about 2:45 PM.  Troopers said that a vehicle traveling northbound operated by 31 year old Kerri Bunnelle of Little Falls, crossed over into the opposite lane of traffic and struck a vehicle head-on driven by 43 year old Mathew Fredericks of Herkimer, who was pronounced dead at the scene.  Bunnelle was transported to St. Elizabeth Medical Center in Utica. The investigation is on-going.

Governor Cuomo announced Tuesday's results regarding the ongoing COVID 19 Pandemic. There were 636 new positive cases yesterday, or .87% of those tested statewide, bringing the state wide total to 418,225.  There were 4 COVID-19 Deaths, bringing the toll since March to 25,179.    Patient Hospitalizations were down to 564, the number of ICU patients was down to 134, there were 69 patients on Ventilators.

Chenango County released their latest COVID 19 statistics today, with 1 new positive, giving them 212 cases since March.  Chenango County has 136 people in Quarantine, 1 person is hospitalization, and there have been 189 Recoveries, 7 deaths, & 17,275 tests Performed.

Broome County Health Department announced that they had 9 more positive COVID 19 cases today, bringing their total to 1029.  They report 829 recoveries, 69 deaths, 703 are being monitored by the Health Department.

Governor Cuomo announced that State Police and local law enforcement will be increasing patrols over the next week to crack down on speeding across the state. Unsafe speed was a contributing factor in 34% of all fatal crashes from January to May this year, compared to 30% of fatal crashes during the same period in 2019, The "Speed Awareness Week" enforcement campaign is part of the Governor's Traffic Safety Committee's ongoing efforts to improve safety on New York roadways.

The Otsego County Chamber of Commerce will host its 34th Annual Chamber Classic Golf Tournament at the Oneonta Country Club on Thursday, August 20th, with a 1:00 PM shotgun start.  The event will follow all Social Distancing Guidelines and Safety Protocols.   A portion of the event proceeds will be donated to the CommunityFoundation of Otsego County.  More information is available at 432-4500.

U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand discussed the US Senate's lack of renewing the CARES Act that lapsed August 1st, which led to state and local governments cutting services, & families face lesser or no unemployment benefits & families have been unable to pay their rent and face eviction.

(Gillibrand 8-5-20)

Gillibrand also said that New Yorkers returning to work are also challenged by a growing child care crisis and reduced transportation due to budget shortfalls which limited service, plus millions of jobs have not yet come back since closing in the early days of the COVID 19 pandemic.

Otsego Now established a State Disaster Emergency Grant Program for Otsego County, with financial assistance from the Community Foundation of Otsego County and the Cooperstown Foundation. Small businesses and not-for-profit corporations with fewer than 50 employees are eligible for grants up to $500 for the purpose of acquiring personal protective equipment or installing fixtures to prevent the spread of Covid-19, More information is available otsegonow.com.

The Cancer Services Program has a free mobile coach cancer screening event today at the Morris Fire Department from 9:00am to 2:00 pm to provide NO COST mammograms and Pap tests to women 40 or older.  More information is available at 1-888-345-0225.

The Regatta Row 2020 Art Trail on North and West Main streets in Bainbridge will be coming to an end this week.   The online auction of the chairs and paddles is closing at 10:00 pm Friday, at 32auctions.com/rr2020chairs and www.32auctions.com/rr2020paddles.  To vote for People's choice chair go to jerichoarts.com and click on the link on the homepage.

Delaware County Public Health received no new positive test results for COVID-19 Tuesday and 2 additional recoveries have been reported. The known active cases in the County is now 2. To date there have been 96 confirmed positive cases,  with 17 people under mandatory quarantine, 2 people are isolated at home and no one is in a hospital, 6 people have died and 88 have fully recovered.

Preferred Mutual Insurance Company presented the Village of New Berlin with a $150,000 donation to the New Berlin Firehouse project; which will be a  7,000 square-foot firehouse with 6 garage bays, offices, meeting rooms and training area, construction is slated to begin later this year.

57 year old Robert Bresee of Norwich has been sentenced to 15 years in prison for transporting and possessing child pornography, according to federal prosecutors & the FBI.  Bresee was previously convicted in Chenango County Court of 1st degree Rape, and was sentenced to 15 years’ in prison; he admitted that while on post-release supervision he uploaded child pornography.  Bresee was additional sentenced to another 15-year term of supervised release, & he is designated as a Level 3 Sexually Violent Offender, will be required to continue to register as a sex offender upon his release from prison.

The State Health Department announced 769 new Positive Coronavirus tests Wednesday, bringing the state total to 404,775 since March.  there were 11 deaths from the Virus Wednesday, bringing the state death toll to 25,014.  about 1% of those tested Wednesday tested positive.

Delaware County Public Health reported 1 new case of COVID-19 and no additional recoveries Thursday. The known active cases is 3, there have been 85 positive cases since March, with 32 people quarantined, 3 people are isolated at home, none are hospitalized, 6 have died & 76 have recovered.

Chenango County Public Health continues to see an uptick in Coronavirus cases, they are now up to 175 total cases, with 132 active Quarantines, no one is Hospitalized 149 have recovered, they have reported 6 deaths, & they have conducted over 13,700 tests.

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.

The Bainbridge Chamber of Commerce is organizing its 8th annual golf tournament fundraiser. Donations are being accepted from local businesses for prizes, the tournament is scheduled for Sunday, August 9th, more information is available by calling John Payne at 316-6854 or at Terri DeRoche 434-2400.

The Binghamton Rumble Ponies announce "A Night at the Rumble Town" on July 31st, with their summer movie schedule with a movie and fireworks.  Gates will open at 6:00 PM and "The Lion King" will begin at 7:30 PM with fireworks following immediately after.  Tickets will be available online at bingrp.com or by calling 607-722-3866.

Gabriel Truitt will be sentenced in Otsego County Court Friday on Murder & Arson charges, for setting the fire at Walling Avenue that killed former Oneonta fireman John Heller on December 29th, 2018.  Truitt started the fire in the building for revenge against an ex-girlfriend; Heller lived in another apartment in the building & died getting others out.  Truitt will appear live in Court Friday, as in person court appearances are back following virtual court action through the pandemic period.

Governor Cuomo announced that the Special Enrollment Period for uninsured New Yorkers will be extended for another 30 days, through August 15th, as the State continues to provide supportive services during the COVID-19 public health crisis. New Yorkers can apply for coverage through NY State of Health online at nystateofhealth.ny.gov, by phone at 1-855-355-5777, and by connecting with a free enrollment assistor.

Sidney Center residents are advised that a follow up Re-Zoning meeting with Town Supervisor Gene Pigford will be held tonight @ 6:30PM @ the firemen's field in downtown Sidney Center. The meeting was arranged following a meeting on July 1st, where Sidney Center residents wanted more information regarding the potential for rezoning a sizable portion of the hamlet.

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 State Health Department announced the latest Coronavirus Numbers for Monday.  The number of Hospitalizations state wide is 891, there were 13 deaths Monday from the virus; bring the state death toll to 24,855.  There were 524 new positive cases diagnosed Monday, or about 1% of those tested, the state number since early March is 393,454.

Chenango County Public Health announced their latest statistics regarding the Coronavirus pandemic.  They have had a total of 146 cases, with 134 recoveries, there are Currently 26 people Quarantined, there are no Active Hospitalizations, 6 deaths, they have conducted 10,803 tests.

The Broome County Department of Health announced today that they are up to 680 cases of the Coronavirus, they report 51 deaths, 572 recoveries, 265 are being monitored by the Heath Department, they have conducted over 19,500 tests.

The Board of Directors for the Delaware County Fair announced today, that the Annual County Fair in Walton is cancelled this year, spokesman Jason Craig explains:

(Jason Craig 6-30-20)

Craig said that they are going forward to plan for the 2021 Delaware County Fair in Walton in August of 2021.

The New York State Department of Health announced that they have led a study on multisystem inflammatory syndrome in children associated with COVID-19.  The study describes 99 cases of the syndrome and concludes the emergence of the condition in the State followed widespread COVID-19 transmission and often is associated with cardiac dysfunction in children up to the age of 21.   Of the 99 patients 36 had a pre-existing condition, the most common being obesity, Of the 99, there were two fatalities, the syndrome is compared to Kawasaki disease, and more studies will be conducted.

Former Delaware County Social Services Commissioner Dana Scuderi-Hunter has filed a lawsuit against the Delaware County Board of Supervisors, and Chairperson Tina Mole for wrongful dismissal.  Scuderi-Hunter was suspended in early 2019, & was fired at the end of the suspension.

The Sidney Central School District will receive over $52,000 in grant money from the U.S. Department of Agriculture, for a farm to school program.  The district will expand their efforts to procure locally sourced produce & food products from area farms, for school lunches & breakfast programs.

Delaware County DPW announced that the New York City owned road around the Cannonsville Reservoir will be closed from 7:00 AM to 4:00 PM on July 7th & 8th for paving.  Motorists are asked to use alternate routes during the paving project.  The DPW also announced that oil & stone projects will begin on County roads in the northern part of the county starting on July 6th.

Syracuse native & former area businessman Robert Raide died on June 18th in Canandaigua, he owned Raide Canvas Company in Syracuse & was the founder & Principal Owner of WCDO, which went on the air on May 8th 1982, until he sold it to the current ownership group that includes Craig Stevens, in 1986.  Raide was 76.

The Village of Unadilla announced that the Village playground will be open from 9:00 AM-12:00 PM and 1:00 PM-5:00 PM. The playground equipment will be sanitized every day between 8-9 AM and 12:00-1:00 PM. This playground equipment will be closed during this time to allow the cleaner to dry.  Also, the Tennis Court is opened on 1 side at this time; they are working to open up both sides shortly.

3 people have been arrested after the discovery of illegal fireworks in their vehicle.  On June 27th, State Police arrested 29 year old Leon Tryon and 25 year old Garett Lavalley, both of Wolcott, NY.  They were each charged with Unlawfully Dealing with Fireworks and Dangerous Fireworks.  A third person was charged with a violation level offense for Possessing a Firework or Dangerous Firework.   A trooper monitoring traffic on I-81 in Kirkwood observed Tyron make a vehicle and traffic infraction. A stop was initiated and an investigation led to the discovery of $900 worth of illegal fireworks.  All 3 were processed and issued appearance tickets to the town of Kirkwood court on July 15th.

State Police arrested 35 year old Holly Cornell of Berkshire for Unlawfully Dealing with Fireworks and Dangerous Fireworks, after a trooper monitoring traffic on I-81 in the town of Kirkwood initiated a traffic stop after a traffic violation, troopers located over $2,000 worth of illegal fireworks in Cornell’s possession, she was released on appearance tickets to the town of Kirkwood court on July 7th.

The New York State Board on Electric Generation Siting and the Environment will meet by a Webcast at 10:30 AM Today, which can be heard at dps.ny.gov/Webcasts.  The Siting Board agenda includes the Application of High Bridge Wind, LLC for a Certificate of Environmental Compatibility and Public Need Pursuant to Article 10 to construct a Wind Powered Electric Generating Facility in the Town of Guilford.

Delaware County is reporting no new cases of COVID-19 and 1 additional recovery. The known active cases is now 0. To date there have been 82 confirmed positive cases of COVID-19, 17 people are quarantined, 6 people have died and 76 have fully recovered.

The Otsego County Department of Health has 1 New case of the Coronavirus, giving them 76 total confirmed cases, no one is hospitalized,  69 have recovered, there have been 5 deaths, 11 people are quarantined, 5,589 tests have been performed.

State Senator Jen Metzger announced that her staff will hold a Mobile Office event on Tuesday, June 30th from 10:00 AM to 1:00 PM in Delhi.  Appointments are required, they can be scheduled by emailing cordella@nysenate.gov More information is available by calling (845) 344-3311.

The State Department of Transportation will host a virtual public hearing by videoconference with a phone-in option for the upcoming bridge replacement project in the Towns of Fenton and Barker in Broome County; and the Town of Greene in Chenango County.  The Hearing will be held today, at 5:00 pm at dot.ny.gov/NY79ChenangoRiverBridge

Governor Cuomo held a Coronavirus briefing this morning, he said that the main concern now is containing the spread of the virus from people coming from other states with a high infection rate:

(Cuomo 6-29-20)

Governor Cuomo said that New York's Decent from the highest infection rate to the lowest of all 50 states, stems from the use of masks, and social distancing, the he feels the President needs to sign an executive order mandating face masks:

(Cuomo Masks)

Governor Cuomo said that there were 391 new coronavirus cases diagnosed Sunday across the state, .84% off all tested were positive, bringing the state total to 392,930.  There were 7 deaths Sunday, the state death toll is 24,842, and the number of people hospitalized is down to 853.

The Cancer Services Program mobile screening coach will be at the Unadilla Bishop Lot on Thursday, July 30, from 9:00 AM to 2:00 PM to provide no cost mammograms and Pap tests to women 40 or older.  Colorectal cancer screening kits are also available for men and women 50 or older and can be sent by mail.  More information or appointments can be made at 1-888-345-0225.

Chenango County Public Health announced that they are up to 146 total Coronavirus cases since March.  33 people are currently quarantined, there are no Hospitalizations there have been 6 deaths, and 10,641 tests have been performed.

The Broome County Health Department is up to 674 Coronavirus cases Monday, there have been 553 recoveries, 51 deaths, 244 are being monitored by the Health Department, and they have conducted 19,285 tests.

The Village of Sidney announced that crews will be working on a water main break on Main Street between Liberty Street & the Red Light at River Street & Bridge Street.   The street will be closed to traffic starting at 7:00 AM, & the work is expected to be finished at around 3:30 PM.  Detour signs will be set up for motorists to follow during the work period.

U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand visited and volunteered at the Community Hunger Outreach Warehouse, also known as "CHOW" in Binghamton this morning, where she helped pack meals for New Yorkers struggling to make ends meet during the coronavirus pandemic. The CHOW Program provides food to the hungry in Broome County through its network of over 100 partner agencies including food pantries, soup kitchens, and community meal programs.

The State Department of Transportation will host a virtual public hearing by videoconference with a phone-in option for the upcoming bridge replacement project in the Towns of Fenton and Barker in Broome County; and the Town of Greene in Chenango County.  The Hearing will be held Tuesday, at 5:00 pm at dot.ny.gov/NY79ChenangoRiverBridge

The State DEC announced that additional DEC campgrounds in the Adirondack and Catskill parks will open on July 1 to existing reservation holders for the 2020 season. To maintain social distancing and reduce the density of facilities and protect visitors, DEC is not accepting additional reservations or walk-in camping for the 2020 season at this time. Only existing reservations for all DEC campgrounds will be honored. Please visit DEC’s website for the latest updates on DEC campgrounds and information about each facility.

Delaware County Public Health received no positive lab reports for COVID-19 Friday.  They report 82 total Positive tests, 75 have recovered, 1 is recovering at home, no one is hospitalized, 6 have died, and 16 are quarantined.

The State Health Department reports that the total number of Coronavirus cases is 391,220 after 805 new positive tests on Thursday, there were 14 deaths attributed to the virus, the state death toll since March is 24,814. The number of hospitalizations dropped below 1,000 Wednesday, for the first time since March 18, the highest total was 18,825 hospitalizations on April 12th.

The death of 37-year-old Casie Weese of Glen Aubrey back in March has been ruled accidental.  Weese died of hypothermia, there was no trauma or sexual assault, Weese went missing March 1st, after she left her husband behind after their vehicle suffered a flat tire, she was found March 5th in a wooded area near I-86 & State route 434 near the Broome-Tioga County line.

NBT Bank is moving forward on a plan that restores lobby access by appointment while enacting new protocols to protect the safety of its employees and customers.  The phased approach to reopening branch lobbies includes a market-by-market analysis of conditions, close coordination with local government and health officials and strict adherence to state and federal guidelines. Customers are encouraged to visit www.nbtbank.com/access to learn about their preferred branch hours and service options.

The Ross Park Zoo will be re-opening in Phase 4, Officials will be implementing the safety measures following CDC & State Health Department guidelines, and Opening dates will be June 29 through July 1 for members only; July 2 will be open to the public.  More information is available at rossparkzoo.org/covid-19/

The Arc Otsego has been awarded $60,000 in grants from the Trustee Management Board of NYSARC Trust Services to support The Arc Otsego’s guardianship* and recreation programs for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities who would not otherwise have a legal guardian or advocate. More information about The Arc Otsego is available at arcotsego.org.

Delaware County IDA announced a $25,000 Business expansion loan for Greentopia farms of East Meredith.  The company started last year & has taken a former factory building & is growing mushrooms of various types for gourmet food applications, more information about their mushrooms is available at 718-483-4675.

Chenango County Public Health announced that they have 144 positive cases of the Coronavirus, there are 31 people quarantined, no one is hospitalized, 132 have recovered, there have been 6 deaths, they have conducted 9908 tests.

The Broome County Health Department is up to 661 Coronavirus cases, there have been 553 recoveries, 51 deaths, 149 are being monitored by the Health Department, and they have conducted over 18,700 tests.

Delaware County is reporting no new cases of COVID-19, no additional recoveries, but a 6th death was reported Thursday.  To date there have been 82 confirmed positive cases of COVID-19, with 16 people quarantined.  There are no hospitalizations, 2 are isolated at home, and 74 have fully recovered.

Otsego County Department of Health reported one new positive COVID 19 test Thursday, bringing their total to 75 confirmed cases.  Currently there are no hospitalizations, 67 have recovered, there were 5 deaths, 16 people are quarantined, and 5,158 tests were performed.

New Yorkers can participate in this year’s 2nd free fishing weekend on June 27th and June 28th.  The State DEC hosts 6 free fishing days throughout the year, which allows New Yorkers the opportunity to fish local waterways without purchasing a license.  Because of the Corona virus Pandemic, social distancing guidelines should be followed.

Delaware Valley Humane Society will hold a Virtual Fundraiser called “Run For The Dogs 4th of July 5K Virtual Run, Shelter manager Erin Insinga explains:

(Erin Insinga 6-25-20)

Results from the virtual 5K will be posted online; more information is available by calling 563-7780 of going to the Delaware Valley Humane Society Facebook Page.

(UPDATE)

Governor Cuomo announced that 5 regions, including the Southern Tier; are on track to enter Phase 4 of reopening on Friday. Commerce Chenango President & CEO Kerri Green told WCDO News about the Phase 4 reopening:

(Kerri Green 6-25-20)

Green hosted a webinar with local officials covering more details about the reopening; the webinar was recorded this afternoon & is available for viewing on YouTube or at the Commerce Chenango Facebook page.  More information is available at forward.ny.gov/phase-four-industries.

Chenango County Public Health Announced that they have added 2 more Coronavirus positive cases, bringing their total to 142, they have 28 people under quarantine, no one is hospitalized, 131 have recovered, 6 have died and there have been 9691 tests conducted.

Broome County Health Department announced their Coronavirus numbers Thursday, they added 13 more positive to bring their number to 651, with 51 deaths, 550 recoveries, 155 are being monitored by the department, they have conducted 18,555 tests.

The National Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum is preparing to reopen its doors on Friday, June 26, in accordance with New York State’s regionally-focused phased reopening plan and with many enhanced health and safety procedures.  The Hall of Fame will be open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.  Timed admission tickets will be available for purchase at baseballhall.org for visitors to reserve a specific date and time to enter the Museum, alleviating congestion in the front lobby and throughout the Museum. More information will be posted on the Hall of Fame’s website, baseballhall.org.

The Binghamton Rumble Ponies will hold their annual tradition of fireworks at NYSEG Stadium on July 3rd, with July 4th as a rain date.  Gates will open at 6:00 PM and guests will be treated to a free movie at 7:30 PM with fireworks following immediately after. Gates to NYSEG Stadium will open at 6:00 PM, Fans will be allowed to bring in blankets, pillows for comfort, & they will also be allowed to bring in outside food and beverage.   social distancing will be observed, spectators will also be required to wear a face mask, Tickets will be available online at bingrp.com or at 607-722-3866.

State Senator Jen Metzger announced that her staff will hold a Mobile Office event on Tuesday, June 30th from 10:00 AM to 1:00 PM in Delhi.  Appointments are required, they can be scheduled by emailing cordella@nysenate.gov More information is available by calling (845) 344-3311.

Governor Cuomo today announced that 5 regions, including the Southern Tier; are on track to enter Phase 4 of reopening on Friday. New York State issued guidance for Phase IV, which will allow low-risk indoor and outdoor arts and entertainment, film and TV production, higher education and professional sports without fans. More information is available at forward.ny.gov/phase-four-industries.

Commerce Chenango will present their next webinar regarding the Phase 4 Reopening, today at 3:30 p.m.   Presenters include Commerce Chenango President & CEO Kerri Green, who stopped by to WCDO this morning & discussed some of the changes coming in the Reopening process:

(Kerri Green 6-25-20)

Green will discuss the changes at length this afternoon with the Zoom webinar; she will be joined by members of the Chenango County Health Department, Chenango County Emergency Services Manager Matt Beckwith along with Guest Speaker Jessica Moquin of the Chenango County Historical Society.  Pre-registration is required by emailing register@chenangony.org.  The webinar will also be recorded & will be available through the Commerce Chenango Facebook page.

Delaware County is reporting no new cases of COVID-19 and 1 additional recovery, there have been 82 confirmed positive cases of COVID-19, 18 people are quarantined, 1 of the confirmed active cases is in the hospital, 2 are isolated at home, 5 people have died and 74 have fully recovered.

An American Red Cross Blood Drive is being held today in Walton, from 12:00 Noon until 5:00 PM at the Walton Fire Department, 59 West Street.  Donation appointments can be made by downloading the free Blood Donor App, visiting RedCrossBlood.org, calling 1-800-RED CROSS.

Governor Cuomo announced today that many of the upstate counties, including all of our local counties,  will move into Phase 3 of the Reopening tomorrow, he asked that people still use caution & follow the guidelines, so that New York Does not see a Spike in Coronavirus cases like most of the other states did:

(Cuomo 6-11-20)

Businesses that can re-open in Phase 3 include Food Services & Personal Care, as long as they follow the Health Department Guidelines, More information about Phase 3 can be found at forward.ny.gov/phase-three-industries.

The State Health Department announced that there were 736 Additional Coronavirus Cases confirmed in New York State, bringing the Statewide Total to 380,892; the state death toll since March is 24,442.

Maines Paper & Food Service of Conklin has filed for Chapter 11 Bankruptcy protection.  Maines recently laid off hundreds of workers from their Conklin facility, & they have been sued by several firms for failing to pay for received items.

Chenango County Public Health reported that they are up to 137 cases of the Coronavirus, with 6 deaths, 64 quarantines, 2 are hospitalized, & 124 have recovered.

The Broome County Health Department announced that there are up to 611 Confirmed Coronavirus cases.  They have reported 48 deaths, 498 recoveries, 228 are being monitored, and they have conducted just fewer than 16,000 tests.

Governor Cuomo today announced that the State is Allowing Localities to Open Public Pools and Playgrounds at their Discretion Beginning Today, Social Distancing guidelines should be followed.

Commerce Chenango will host a webinar this afternoon, getting local businesses ready for a potential Phase 3 reopening shortly, Kerri Green of Commerce Chenango explains:

(Kerri Green 6-11-20)

The webinar will start at 4:00 PM; interested parties can register by email Register@chenangony.com, or by calling 334-1400.

In celebration of national Adopt a Shelter Cat Month, the Susquehanna SPCA is waiving adoption fees for all cats 6 years and older through Saturday, June 20th.   There are currently 11 senior cats awaiting adoption at the SPCA, ranging in age from seven to 14 years.  More information is available at sqspca.org or by calling 547-8111.

The State Senate passed State Senator Jen Metzger’s bill to designate a New York State Route 30 bridge in the hamlet of Downsville as the "Colchester Veterans Memorial Bridge.”  Colchester town officials originally requested the designation for the bridge, which crosses the east branch of the Delaware River, to memorialize the fallen veterans who have sacrificed their lives to their country.

Delaware County is reporting no new cases of COVID-19 Wednesday and 1 additional recovery, there have been 79 confirmed positive cases of COVID-19, with 17 people quarantined, 2 of the confirmed active cases are in the hospital, 6 are isolated at home, 5 people have died and 66 have fully recovered.

Otsego County Department of Health announced 3 more confirmed cases of the Coronavirus, bringing their total to 70. currently, no patients are hospitalized, 62 have recovered, there have been 5 deaths, 14 people are quarantined, over 4000 tests have been conducted.

Governor Cuomo is alerting New Yorkers they may receive a phone call where the Caller ID may say “NYS Contact Tracing” and they need to answer that call:

(Cuomo Tracers)

Governor Cuomo said that the state has added enough tracers through the help of foundations from former New York City Mayor Mike Bloomberg; most of the state has now been able to re-open as they have enough tracers to follow up on contacts of those who have been tested positive for the Coronavirus.

The Otsego County Department of Health has learned of a potential exposure to coronavirus at a public venue & they are now seeking to identify and notify individuals who attended a livestock auction at Unadilla Livestock 38 Maple Avenue in Unadilla on Saturday May 16th.   Otsego County Assistant Public Health Director Kim Schlosser told WCDO News that the auction was agricultural and was allowed to be open in Phase 1 of the Reopening:

(Kim Schlosser 5-22-20)

Schlosser said that an individual who lives in another county attended the auction from 1:30-9:30pm has since been confirmed to have COVID 19 & that individual was not wearing a mask.  Anyone who attended the auction, who develops symptoms, should contact their primary care provider, or the COVID Hotline at 547-5555 or the Otsego County Health Department at 547-4316 to get tested, also, if attendees know someone who attended the auction in the Amish community, to inform them of positive test & self-monitor for symptoms of the illness.

The State Health Department announced Friday that they are reporting over 358,000 coronavirus cases, with another 1696 positives discovered Thursday.  109 people died from the virus Thursday , bringing the state death toll to 23,195 since early March.

The New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation will open 16 beaches across the state for swimming today with lifeguards staffed at normal levels to ensure public safety. Beach-goers are reminded to practice social distancing, State Parks will limit parking and other means of entry to keep capacity at 50% or less,   Locally Glimmerglass State Park & Chenango Valley state park will be open from 11:00 Am to 7:00 PM over the Memorial Day Weekend, More information is available at parks.ny.gov/covid19.

The Sidney, Afton, Bainbridge & Unadilla Chambers of Commerce, 4 towns forward & My Home Gym are co-sponsoring the fundraising Wipe Out Covid-19 Virtual 5K Walk/Run, Starting tomorrow through May 31st. So far, about 400 people have signed up & Anna Banks of My Home Gym told WCDO how much money has been raised, and where it goes:

(Anna Banks 5-22-20)

Mike Banks of My Home Gym reminded participants to be careful & maintain Social Distancing during this event:

(Mike Banks 5-22-20)

The virtual 5K can be run or walked from any location; People can donate or get more information at runsignup.com/MyHomeGym2020 or call 320-4024.

Chenango County Public Health announced their Coronavirus statistics, they announced a 5th death, there is 1 person in a Hospital, 33 are quarantined, there are 118 total cases & 86 recoveries, they have performed 2236 tests.

The Broome County Health Department announced that they were up to 468 positive Coronavirus cases Friday, with 32 deaths, 331 recoveries & 237 are being monitored by the Health Department.  They have conducted just under 9000 tests so far.

Volunteers & donations are requested for the Bainbridge Community Center at 3 Prospect Street.  Officials are looking for monetary donations as well as skilled volunteers for concrete, carpentry, electrical, plumbers, painters, landscapers and laborers, they can email to mgermonddc@yahoo.com.  Monetary donations can be sent by check payable to Bainbridge Chamber of Commerce, note Community Center Donation in the memo section, and mail it to P.O. Box 2, Bainbridge, NY 13733.

According to the preliminary results from the U.S. Department of Labor’s business and household surveys for April 2020, the number of private sector jobs in New York State decreased over the month by 1,764,600, or 21.4 percent, to 6,467,600. This was the state’s largest monthly employment drop on record. Just under one-third of the monthly jobs decline occurred in leisure and hospitality, mostly in accommodation and food services.  In April 2020, New York State's seasonally adjusted unemployment rate increased from 4.1% to 14.5%, the largest recorded monthly increase since current record keeping began in 1976.

Delaware County Public Health received 3 positive lab reports for COVID-19 Thursday, the total is now up to 68 positive cases, 54 have recovered, 7 are isolating at home, 3 are hospitalized, 4 are deceased & 17 are quarantined.

Congressman Antonio Delgado announced the award of nearly $100,000 in federal funding through U.S. Department of Transportation & the Federal Aviation Administration. Delgado announced $69,000 for Columbia County Airport in Hudson and $30,000 for Sidney Municipal Airport in Delaware County.

Governor Cuomo announced today that the state now has over 251,690 cases of the Coronavirus, Hospitalizations are down to 16,076 & the number of deaths statewide was 441 Monday, making the state death toll at 14,788. The Governor said that the plans going forward are for the re-opening of the state on a regional basis, they need to ramp up testing as soon as possible before sending people back to work, & then they must track down the people associated with anyone who tests positive:

(Cuomo 4-21-20)

The Governor said that some Hospitals will also be allowed to perform elective surgeries, where the Corona Virus is reported in much smaller number, and where the lack of activity led to some hospitals actually laying off employees in spite of the pandemic.

Delaware County Public Health reported that they had no new positive coronavirus cases Monday, they still have 62 confirmed cases, with 8 cases referred back to the patients home county, 4 are hospitalized, 17 are isolating at home, 4 have died & 75 are quarantined.

Chenango County Public Health announced their latest Coronavirus stats today.  They have 78 total cases, with 7 in a hospital, 47 recoveries, and 149 people are in quarantine.

The Sidney Town Board will meet Thursday April 23rd at 7:00 PM; the meeting will be available for viewing on "Zoom".  Also, the Sidney Town Clerk’s office has a walk up window to do business and keep the social distance. Hours are Monday -Thursday 9:00 to 4:00 to Fridays 9:00 to Noon.

Helios Care will offer free bereavement counseling to anyone experiencing the loss of a loved one during the COVID-19 pandemic.  Spokesperson Alicia Rule explains:

(Alicia Rule 4-21-20)

More information is available at 432-5525 or on the Helios Care website at www.helioscare.org/grief.

Good Shepherd Communities & Chase Nursing Home & Rehabilitation of New Berlin have given their employees a $2 dollar an hour differential for putting in the long hard hours at their nursing homes during the Coronavirus pandemic, President & CEO Mike Keenan explains:

(Mike Keenan 4-21-20)

WCDO will air the full interview with Mike Keenan & Chase Memorial Executive Director Gabby Skillen Wednesday Afternoon after the news at 3:00 PM and again on Thursday after the 10:00 AM news.

Sidney School District Superintendent Eben Bullock announced that the district will continue to provide food services, with a bulk food delivery on Wednesday, All food deliveries will be door to door for those that have signed up.  More information is available at 561-7703.

Broome County Health department reported Monday that they now have 215 positive cases of the Coronavirus; they now report 11 deaths, 339 in quarantine & 49 recoveries.

The Village of Bainbridge Board of trustees will hold their next meeting today at 6:30 PM.  The meeting will be held remotely, those who are interested in viewing the meeting should call the village clerk's office at 967-7373 to get the code.

Governor Cuomo announced today that the Death Toll from the Coronavirus went up another 606 Wednesday, to a total of 12,252 people since the Pandemic hit the New York State about 6 weeks ago, while hospitalization decreased by 600 to 17,735.  Going Forward, Governor Cuomo said that the state is trying to keep the infection rate as low as possible, but still slowly allow people to go back to work & get the economy moving again:

(Cuomo 4-16-20)

Governor Cuomo said that the testing of people before they head back to work is crucial in keep the infection rate from going back to its peak of 1.2, which is where it was 2 to 3 weeks ago.  The Governor Also said that the New York On Pause initiative will be expanded to May 15th, and the Executive Order on wearing masks will take effect on Friday at 8:00 PM.

Acco Brands in Sidney announced that they will be laying off the bulk of their existing employees within the next week, in part due to the coronavirus pandemic.  The shipping & distribution employees are expected to be remaining on the job to get out existing product. The Sidney plant employs about 490 people.

The Chenango County Department of Health now has 71 confirmed cases of the Coronavirus, with 10 people hospitalized, 34 have recovered & 194 ibn quarantine situations.

The number of private sector jobs in New York State decreased over the month by 42,900, or 0.5 percent, to 8,315,700. This was the state’s steepest monthly employment drop since April 2009.  More than 50% of the job loss came in the leisure and hospitality industry and food services.   the state unemployment rate leaped up to 4.5% in March the largest monthly increase since 1976, due in part by the start of the Coronavirus pandemic & the state's initial shutdown.   the number of unemployed New York State residents rose by 73,900, while labor force levels dropped by 132,300 – both monthly records.

The Village of Bainbridge Board of trustees will hold their next meeting on Tuesday April 21st, at 6:30 PM.  the meeting will be held remotely, those who are interested in viewing the meeting should call the village clerk's office at 967-7373 to get the code.

Delaware County has received 3 new positive test results Wednesday, 28 more people have been place under mandatory quarantine bringing that total up to 71.  Delaware County now has 58 confirmed positive cases of COVID-19, 7 confirmed cases have been transferred out of the county to where the person actually resides, 6 people are isolated in a hospital, 25 are recovering at home, 3 people are deceased and 17 have fully recovered.

Otsego County Department of Health announced that they now have 47 confirmed cases of the Coronavirus, 5 are hospitalized, 21 have recovered and are off isolation & there have been 3 deaths. 31 people are in mandatory quarantine, 3 people on precautionary quarantine, 124 people have been released from quarantine.

Broome County Department of Health reports that they have 159 coronavirus cases, with 31 recoveries, 8 deaths, & 259 people are quarantined.

Governor Cuomo announced he will issue an Executive Order requiring all people in New York to wear a mask or a face covering when out in public and in situations where social distancing cannot be maintained, such as on public transportation. The Executive Order will go into effect on Friday, April 17th.

Commerce Chenango will hold their 2nd "Virtual Lunch" Webinar Series on "Zoom" this afternoon at 12:00 Noon.   Commerce Chenango CEO Kerri Green told WCDO News about today's presenters & topic:

(Kerri Green 4-16-20)

Green said that the virtual series is being offered free of charge and is open to the public. Participants are asked to support a local restaurant by ordering their to-go lunch prior to the webinar. To register, email "register@chenangony.org" or call 334-1402.  The 3rd in the series will be held Next Thursday April 23rd at 12:00 Noon, with the presentation from attorneys at Hinman, Howard & Kattell, LLP.

Governor Cuomo announced the submission of 53 vetoes from the Fiscal Year Enacted State Budget.  19 appropriations were fully expended, and 4 additional appropriations had minimal spending authority remaining. 22 appropriations are vetoed on unconstitutional grounds, and 8 were duplicative of other reappropriations for the same purpose. The full list of vetoes is available at governor.ny.gov.

The State has well over 200,000 cases of the Coronavirus, and while the number of Hospitalizations has remained relatively flat, & the number of people requiring ventilators has gone down, Governor Cuomo said that the next step is to figure out how to return to normal economic activity, but that requires the seemingly impossible task of testing of millions of people before they can be cleared to go to work:

(Cuomo 4-15-20)

Governor Cuomo said that another 752 people died from the Coronavirus Tuesday statewide, bringing the death toll to 11,646 people.

The Chenango County Health Department announced their latest Coronavirus numbers today.  The County has 68 confirmed cases, with 38 Precautionary Quarantines & 177 Mandatory Quarantines.  Currently, there are 9 Hospitalizations, 24 Recoveries they have conducted 397 Tests.

State Police reported that counterfeit $100 bills have been used in businesses recently in Margaretville, Arkville, Binghamton, Deposit & Marathon.  In some cases, store employees have noticed the bill was fake and refused to complete the purchase.  Businesses that suspect counterfeit activity, Contact local law enforcement & try to get a description of the suspect or their vehicle.

Delaware County Sheriff Deputies responded to a domestic dispute on Arbuckle Hollow Road in Delhi, they arrested 20 year-old Noah Shambaugh of Delhi, for falsely reporting an incident, 4 counts of criminal obstruction of breathing and 1 count of harassment for allegedly striking and choking a victim repeatedly & then falsely reporting the facts of the dispute to Deputies.  Shambaugh was arraigned remotely through Town of Kortright court, an Order of Protection was issued for the victim.  Shambaugh was released on his own recognizance pending his appearance in the Town of Delhi Court on a later date.

Bassett Medical Center has started a clinical trial assessing the safety and efficiency of several medications as potential treatments for COVID- 19 among hospitalized patients. The trial was designed by the hospital’s Department of Medicine and the Bassett Research Institute, it will include only patients with laboratory confirmed COVID-19 infection who are hospitalized at Bassett Medical Center in Cooperstown or A.O. Fox Hospital in Oneonta. Other qualifying institutions nationwide have been invited to join the trial; up to 4,000 patients can be accepted into the clinical trial, more information is available at clinicaltrials.gov.

The Community Foundation for South Central New York has released an additional $142,705 in grants to organizations providing essential services to the individuals and communities during the COVID-19 crisis.  The Otsego County Department of Health receives $5,000 for a public awareness campaign on social distancing, The Delaware Valley Humane Society will receive $5,000 for increased capacity at the shelter as owners are forced to surrender animals, Good Shepherd Communities Foundation will receive $5,000 for Personal Protective Equipment, Helios Care receives $10,000 for Personal Protective Equipment & Catskill Center for Independence receives $8,000 for their meal and prescription delivery program to community members with disabilities.  More information is available at donorswhocare.org.

State Police arrested 38 year old Dennis Lafferty of Unadilla twice Sunday on 2 separate complaints.  At about 1:30 PM, troopers responded to a domestic dispute in Unadilla, Troopers located Lafferty, who was accused of making threats to physically harm one of the residents, which violated an order of protection,  Lafferty was charged with Criminal Contempt, was arraigned by teleconference and released on his own recognizance.   At about 7:30 PM, troopers learned that Lafferty was once again at the residence, he was charged with Criminal Contempt, he was arraigned again by teleconference and remanded to the Delaware County Jail on $2,500 cash bail or $5,000 bail bond.

Delaware County Public Health received 2 new positive tests for the Coronavirus Tuesday. There are 55 confirmed positive cases, 45 are quarantined, 7 confirmed cases have been transferred back to the person’s home County, 5 are isolated in a hospital, 25 are isolated at home, 3 people are deceased and 15 have fully recovered.

The Broome County Department of Health announced Tuesday that they have 144 positive cases of the Coronavirus.  So far, they have 8 deaths from the Coronavirus, 29 people have recovered, with 243 people under quarantine.

Sidney United Way has teamed up with another area organization, to raise funds to assist non-profits during the Coronavirus Pandemic, Sidney United Way Executive Director Dennis Porter explains:

(Dennis Porter 4-14-20)

The Applications can be located at sidneyunitedway.org.

Governor Cuomo welcomed the Floating Naval Hospital to New
York City today, giving the city added help for its beleaguered Hospitals at
the epicenter of the Coronavirus outbreak.
Cuomo said that the number of positive cases statewide is 66,497, the
number of deaths jumped to 1,218, the number Hospitalized is now over 9500, the
number of ICU Beds occupied is 2352, & the number discharged from hospitals
is now 4202.  The statistics also showed
that the rate of increase is slowing down:

(Cuomo 3-30-20 doubling the rate)

Governor Cuomo also said that too many people are treating
the "Stay At Home" mandate like it was optional:

(Cuomo 3-30-20 stay home)

Local officials have expressed concern that too many people
are leaving the most affected areas and are coming to Otsego & Delaware
Counties to wait it out, and they could be driving up the local numbers &
threatening the local population and healthcare systems.

State Senator Jim Seward's office announced today that the
Senator & his wife Cindy both tested positive for the Coronavirus.  Seward has displayed mild Symptoms and is expected
to be released from Albany Medical Center shortly, while Cindy Seward was
treated & released from Bassett Hospital and is recovering while
quarantined at home, both are expected to fully recover.

NYSEG today announced they are donating approximately 17,700
protective masks to assist health care workers across the state amid a shortage
of protective gear for medical personnel fighting the coronavirus pandemic. The
donation comes on the heels of Governor Cuomo’s call for assistance as New York
continues to face increasing strains on the health care system. The surgical
masks and N95 respirators are being delivered to a state receiving center,
where officials will disperse them to facilities most in need.

Chenango County Health Department announced this morning that they have 14 positive cases of the Coronavirus, with 10 more positives over the weekend.  Otsego County also had 14 Positives with 1 death, Delaware County Had 12; Broome County has 29, with 3 deaths.

The Unadilla Community Food Pantry is open to residents of
Unadilla on Mondays, Fridays and Saturdays from 11:00-12:30 with curb side
service.  More information is available
at 563-7713.

The Community Foundation for
South Central New York has released $110,000 in grants to organizations
providing services during the COVID-19 Crisis in the region. The Friends of Recovery
Delaware/Otsego will receive $5,000, the Food Bank of the Southern Tier will
get $7,500 for meal delivery programs, Delaware Opportunities receives $15,000
for meal delivery programs, Chenango United Way gets $15,000 for their
community response, Opportunities for Otsego receives $15,000 for their
community response to COVID-19, & ARC of Delaware County receives $2,500
for the Walton Food Pantry.  More
information about the Foundation can be found at donorswhocare.org.

Governor Cuomo stated yesterday that there were 59,573 cases
of the Corona Virus in the State, with 965 deaths, over 8500 are in Hospitals,
2037 were in ICU Beds, & 3572 have been discharged.   The Governor talked about the heroism of all
the 1st Responders during this crisis:

(Cuomo 3-30-20)

Governor Cuomo announced all New York on Pause functions
will be extended for the next 2 weeks; the state nonessential workforce will
continue to work from home for an additional two weeks through April 15th.
Executive Orders regarding the closing of restaurants and bars, gyms, movie
theaters, casinos; local government workforces, school districts; malls, public
amusement facilities; barber shops & salons are also extended until April
15th.

The Otsego County Coronavirus Task Force is asking
Individuals who are traveling to Otsego County from the New York City and other
areas hard hit by COVID-19, to notify the Otsego County Department of Health
upon their arrival by phone and self-isolate for 14 days. During the 14-day
period, you should monitor all household members for signs and symptoms of
COVID-19. These include fever, cough and shortness of breath.

Acco Brands Bargaining employees will be having their
Contract Extension Vote today at the CWA Sidney Union Hall 9 River Street;
until 6:00 PM.  Only 2 people will be
allowed in the hall at a time because of the Corona Virus recommendations
regarding social distancing.

State Police arrested 27 year old Brandon Parry of Sherburne
Wednesday for the felony of Disseminating Indecent Material to Minors and
Endangering the Welfare of a Child.
Parry is employed as a police officer with the Village of Sidney Police
Department, he is accused of sending indecent messages and pictures to a minor,
and he was arraigned in the village of Sidney Court where he was released on
his own recognizance pending court action on May 4th.  An order of protection was issued to the
victim by the judge.  The investigation
is continuing.

Commerce Chenango is open & will assist Chenango County
businesses through a variety of issues they may face due to the COVID 19,
Commerce Chenango CEO Kerri Green explains:

(Kerri Green 3-19-20)

Green said that Businesses can call 334-1400, or check their
website or social media pages for details.

The number of Corona Virus cases in New York State
approached 2400 yesterday; Governor Cuomo said today that equipment for
hospitals is crucial:

(Cuomo 3-19-20)

Cuomo said that a Navy Hospital ship will be deployed near
New York City, adding 1000 beds quickly for the growing need for increased
capacity.

Panic & Fear are leading people to do things during the
COVID-19 Pandemic that are counter-productive, like removing all of their money
from their financial institutions.  SFCU
President & CEO Jim Reynolds explains:

(Jim Reynolds 3-19-20)

Reynolds said that while SFCU has closed their lobbies to
protect staff & Members, The hours have been extended at their Drive
through Windows & Call centers to assist members until further notice.

A Joint Statement has been released by State Senator Fred
Akshar and Assemblyman Cliff Crouch on misleading mail sent by Assembly
Candidate Nick Libous.  Akshar &
Crouch took exception to mailing by Libous where both men are in pictures with
him, giving the illusion that they are backing his attempt to win election to
Assemblyman Crouch's seat that he will be retiring from at the end of the
year.  Akshar & Crouch said that they
do not support the Libous candidacy & they both endorse former police
chief, Fireman & Military combat veteran Joe Angelino for the Assembly
Seat.

Chenango County Health
Department confirmed today that they have a 2nd positive test for the
coronavirus of a County resident.
Officials said that the 2 cases are in quarantine currently, they cannot
release the location of the 2 patients.

Governor Cuomo, New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy and
Connecticut Governor Ned Lamont today announced Pennsylvania Governor Tom Wolf
is joining their coalition to implement a regional approach to combatting
COVID-19.  The 4 governors announced
indoor portions of retail shopping malls, amusement parks and bowling alleys in
the 4 states will close by 8:00 PM Tonight, which is an expansion of the guidance
issued Monday.

Delaware County Sheriff Craig DuMond announced that
uninterrupted law enforcement services will continue, however he advises that
if anyone is experiencing an emergency, call 911, but make sure that
dispatchers are advised if any members of your household are experiencing
flu-like symptoms, in order to protect all 1st responders, who can then respond
correctly to the situation which can help prepare to prevent the spread of any
illnesses or future quarantine of law enforcement members.

SUNY Broome's campus remains open; there will be no
on-campus classes today & Friday while staff prepares to work
remotely.   Some labs and hands-on
classes that are scheduled to still meet on campus will resume on Monday, all
other classes will continue to be delivered in a distance education format,
starting today, and visit sunybroome.edu for the latest updates.

Governor Cuomo signed an executive order temporarily
modifying election procedures to help reduce the spread of the
coronavirus.  The order suspends the
candidate petitioning process for the June primaries for Congressional, State
Senate, State Assembly and Judicial races, it also modifies the signature
requirements for ballot access; & modifies deadlines and procedures
regarding absentee voting.

Governor Cuomo announced 221 new cases of COVID-19 in New
York, bringing the statewide total to 950, 1 New York City Department of
Corrections officer has died from the Coronavirus, bring the state death count
to 4.  The governor also announced a
tri-state effort to curb the spread of the virus.  Cuomo, New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy and
Connecticut Governor Ned Lamont today announced that they will limit crowd
capacity for social and recreational gatherings to 50 people, also restaurants
and bars will close for on premise service and will have take-out and delivery services
only, they also will be provided a waiver for carry-out alcohol.   The 3 governors will temporarily close movie
theaters, gyms and casinos, all of these restrictions go into effect at 8:00 PM
tonight.

State lawmakers are still in Albany this week, trying to
wrap up the State budget early, Assemblyman Cliff Crouch Comments:

(Crouch 3-16-20)

2 members of the State Assembly, Helene Weinstein &
Charles Barron, both of Brooklyn, have tested positive for the
Coronavirus.  The state Capital will be
closed to visitors & all legislative buildings will be vigorously cleaned.

19th District Congressman Antonio Delgado announced today
that he will have to close his offices in Washington DC and in his home
district.  Public meeting & Town
Halls will also be postponed.  More information
is available at Delgado.house.gov.

The Town of Unadilla announced that they are closing the
Town Hall until further notice due to the Coronavirus situation.  All court session are cancelled, any court
payments can be made online, can be mailed or put in the drop box outside, Dog
License & Handicapped applications can be mailed, the date for Dog
Enumeration will be extended until the end of Aprils, and Tax payments may be
mailed or put in the drop box. More information is available at 369-4922 or by
email: unadillaclerk@stny.rr.com

The Sidney Town Clerk's office announced that they will be
closed to the public for 2 weeks due to the ongoing COVID-19 concerns.  Town Clerk Sheila Paul announced that she
will continue to work, all payments, dog licenses, handicap placard
applications, and any other services needed from the Town Clerk’s Office may be
sent by mail or left in the drop box at the Town Office.  More information is available at 561-2334,
237-6394 or by Email: Clerk@townofsidney.com

The National Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum announced that
they are closed to the public, in accordance with recommendations by the CDC to
limit opportunities for large gatherings and the further spread of the COVID-19
virus. The Hall of Fame will provide updated information regarding this closure
on each subsequent Sunday, at baseballhall.org and by social media
channels.  As a precautionary measure due
to the COVID-19 virus, our 2020 Hall of Fame Classic Weekend events have been
canceled.

The State DEC announced that the
statewide ban prohibiting residential brush burning begins today and runs
through May 14th, as conditions for wildfires are heightened in
springtime.  When temperatures are warmer
and the past fall's debris and leaves dry out, wildfires can start and spread
easily and be further fueled by winds and a lack of green vegetation.  More information is available at dec.ny.gov.

Governor Cuomo announced that the statewide total of coronavirus
cases has increased to 729, and 3 deaths have been confirmed.  The deaths were an 88 year old woman in
Brooklyn with emphysema, and a 65 year old man with many health problems &
a 79 year old female with many serious illnesses.  Governor Cuomo said that they are working on
a plan regarding schools; he said that closing all schools brings up other
issues:

(Cuomo 3-16-20)

Cuomo said that they are working to increase testing for the
Corona Virus rapidly, they are trying to convince more businesses to have
employees work from home, and they are trying to increase hospital capabilities
rapidly.

Delaware County Officials have declared a State of Emergency
effective through Monday April 13, 2020.
The order calls for the suspension of all classroom and extracurricular
functions at all public schools, except for administrative and staff functions,
the Order shall take effect Wednesday, March 18th & will remain in effect
until April 14th.  Also, the Delaware
County Office for the Aging Senior Meal sites and Senior Transit have stopped
operations until April 14th.

Chenango County Officials announced Sunday afternoon that
they have issued a State of Emergency.
Chenango County Schools will be closed Monday, but staff must report.
The state of Emergency will require all county schools to close from Wednesday,
through April 14th.  Unadilla Valley
& Oxford Academy announced that they will close Monday & will remain
closed Tuesday & then through April 14th.

The Delaware County Sheriff’s Office announced that due to
the increased cases of the Coronavirus, all visitation and programs at the
Delaware County Correctional Facility will be suspended until further notice.
More information is available at 832-5607.

All Otsego, Schoharie, Broome & Tioga County Schools
will be closed starting today.  Many Delaware
& Chenango County Schools will be closed today for students, but staff
members must report, decisions on Tuesday for some of those schools have not
been made, more information will be posted on each school's website.

Several Area Officials met Friday to decide how to handle
the Coronavirus issue locally, Bainbridge Mayor Phil Wade comments:

(Phil Wade 3-16-20)

Wade said that those who would like to sign up for the
Bainbridge, Sidney or Unadilla Email blasts known as Small Town Connects,
should contact the village offices to sign up.