WCDO Radio News

P.M. NEWS THURSDAY 12-31-20

Governor Cuomo directed State agencies to prepare emergency assets and assist local governments as needed as multiple storm systems are expected to impact locations throughout the state with snow, sleet and freezing rain through the holiday weekend.  Isolated power outages may also occur; NYSEG Officials announced today that they are getting crews ready to handle weather related issues.

Chenango County Public Health continues to see an increase in COVID 19 cases, they reported 19 more active cases, giving them 150 current cases, Hospitalizations went down by 1 to 5, and Quarantines went up by 36 to 569.  Chenango County has had 536 of their 1179 cases in December.

The Otsego County Health Department reported 33 new COVID 19 cases today, bringing their active total to 120, with 21 now hospitalized.  They have reported just fewer than 600 new cases in December with 9 of their 17 reported deaths occurring since December 1sst.

The Broome County Health Department continues to average almost 100 new cases of COVID 19 each day in the month of December, including another 137 reported today, The County has had a total of 7959 cases since the Spring, 2646 of them have been reported since the beginning of the month, County Health Department officials said that 45 of their 176 deaths have occurred in December, COVID hospitalizations have been hovering around 100 and 3 nursing homes continue to be COVID hotspots.

A.M. NEWS THURSDAY 12-31-20

Governor Cuomo announced he is signing an Executive Order to extend the requirement that death benefits be paid out to families of frontline government workers for an additional 30 days. The legislation providing these benefits would otherwise expire Tonight, The Governor also announced that more than 200,000 New Yorkers have now been vaccinated with the first dose of the COVID-19 vaccine and beginning next week, New York will open vaccination criteria to ambulatory care health workers and public-facing public health workers, including those administering COVID-19 tests.

Governor Cuomo announced Wednesday that the Buffalo Bills will have 6,700 fans in attendance when they host a 1st-round playoff game the weekend of January 9th & 10th.  Fans will be allowed in who are wearing masks and test negative before the game, there will also be contact tracing after the game, and that the game will serve as a pilot program for how the state can safely reopen large events.

Delaware County Public Health reported a 13th death from COVID 19 Wednesday.  The County had 15 new positive cases, 4 are hospitalized and 274 are quarantined.

The Broome County Special Investigations Unit Task Force executed a narcotics search warrant at 296 Main Street in Binghamton and arrested 42 year old Bernard Barnes, 42 year old Cora Stevens and 35 year old Leroy Poole, all of Binghamton.  Investigators seized Cocaine, Fentanyl & drug packaging materials and about $1,400 in cash from alleged drug sales.  Barnes, Stevens and Poole were charged with several counts of criminal possession of a controlled substance, criminally using drug paraphernalia. Poole and Barnes were jailed while awaiting further court action and Stevens was released after Monday's arrests.

Unemployed New Yorkers will begin receiving extended and expanded federal unemployment benefits, starting the week January 3rd.  Unemployed New Yorkers will receive an additional $300 payment through the extended Pandemic Emergency Unemployment Compensation and Pandemic Unemployment Compensation programs. New Yorkers currently receiving benefits do not need to call the Department of Labor to receive these extended benefits.

The Otego County Chamber of Commerce is hosting a virtual Town Hall State of the State on Tuesday January 5th at 9:00 am.  Congressman Antonio Delgado will be the Keynote presenter More information is available at 432-4500 extension 2.

Chenango County Public Health announced 31 new positive cases of COVID 19 today; they report 131 active cases with 6 hospitalizations, & 533 Active Quarantines. The Broome County Health Department had 274 new cases of COVID-19 over the last 2 days with 1 more death; they have had 175 deaths from the virus.

The New York State Division of Consumer Protection is alerting consumers about scammers taking advantage of COVID-19 vaccinations to steal personal information. Scammers are using techniques that typically arise with a major global event such as: falsely claiming to be online sellers of the vaccination; sending fake emails and texts that contain harmful links designed to steal your personal information; and using robocalls to pitch vaccination information.  Information about legitimate Vaccination sites can be found at ny.gov/vaccine.

A.M. NEWS WEDNESDAY 12-30-20

Governor Cuomo announced updated quarantine guidelines for New York which are consistent with the CDC guidance.  Individuals exposed to COVID-19 can end their quarantine after 10 days without a testing requirement as long as no symptoms have been reported during the quarantine period, after day 10, individuals must continue monitoring for symptoms through day 14 and if any develop, they should immediately self-isolate and contact the local health department or their healthcare provider.

The state reported over 160,000 Tests Tuesday, with 11,438 positives, that was 7.14% of all tested.  Hospitalization went up to 7,814, ICU Patients & those on ventilators remained the same, and there were 124 deaths.

Otsego County Department of Health reported 23 new cases of COVID 19 Tuesday.  They report 17 hospitalized & 1 new death reported, brings the total number of deaths to 17.

Delaware County Public Health reported 12 new cases of COVID 19 Tuesday.  They have 4 hospitalized out of 96 active cases, 276 are quarantined.

P.M. NEWS TUESDAY 12-29-20

Chenango County Public Health reported 2 additional COVID-19 deaths today, bringing their total to 18. Chenango County has 137 active cases, 6 hospitalized and 521 quarantined, and they have had 1129 confirmed cases of the virus.

Governor Cuomo signed an Executive Order that states that a provider can be fined up to $1 million and lose all State licenses if they are found to have committed fraud or intentionally administered a vaccine to a person who is not eligible. The order follows reports of health care providers getting the vaccines & administering them against the state's vaccination priority protocols.

Delaware County Sheriff's Office arrested 44 year old Joseph Garone of South Kortright for driving while ability impaired by drugs for the 2nd time in 2 weeks, after Deputies responded to the front of the County Public Safety building after Garone's vehicle drove over a concrete parking block and became lodged by the main entrance.   Garone was charged with operating a motor vehicle while ability impaired by drugs, on December 4th, he was charged with driving while ability impaired by drugs following their investigation of a two car motor vehicle accident in the Town of Delhi.

Broome County Health Department reported 7548 total positive COVID tests, which is about 2600 positives in the last month.  Broome County reported 174 deaths, 58 of those since Thanksgiving and they have had 6567 total recoveries, which is 2365 recoveries since the end of November.

Broome County's Festival of Lights returns tonight, after crews cleaned up Otsiningo Park following recent flooding and subsequent damage.  Officials said that that the New Year's Eve fireworks display should go on as scheduled at 7:00 PM; more information is available at the Spiedie Fest Facebook page.

State Police arrested 54-year-old Robert Trella on an arson charge following the investigation of a suspicious fire at 305 Pease Hill Road in the town of Barker Monday afternoon.  Trella lived in the home, no one else was inside at the time of the fire, he was arraigned and released on his own recognizance & will appear in court at a later date.

A.M. NEWS TUESDAY 12-29-20

Governor Cuomo signed the COVID-19 Emergency Eviction and Foreclosure Prevention Act of 2020, which prevents residential evictions, foreclosure proceedings, credit discrimination and negative credit reporting related to the COVID-19 pandemic. It also extends the Senior Citizens' Homeowner Exemption and Disabled Homeowner Exemption from 2020 to 2021. The Act adds to New York State's efforts to protect tenants and homeowners from the economic hardship incurred as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Governor Cuomo will sign an Executive Order withholding pay increases for all commissioners and statewide elected officials. The statewide elected officials included in the Executive Order are the Governor, the Lieutenant Governor, the Attorney General and the Comptroller.  The State has a 15 Billion Dollar deficit from costs associated with fighting the COVID 19 pandemic.

Otsego County Department of Health reported 9 new COVID 19 cases Monday, they have 16 hospitalized, and they reported 4 new deaths from the virus, bringing their total to 16 deaths.  Also, Delaware County Public Health announced 18 new COVID 19 cases Monday; they report 97 active cases with 3 hospitalized & 276 in quarantine.

Delaware County Sheriff's Deputies arrested 44 year old Gregory Schaub of South New Berlin on a variety of Charges after Deputies observed a vehicle with a non-functional brake light in front of them. Deputies initiated a traffic stop and a routine inquiry revealed that Schaub only possessed a non-driver’s ID and that his driving privileges in the State of New York were revoked from a previous DWI charge.  Schaub was charged with aggravated unlicensed operation of a motor vehicle, unlicensed operator and operating a vehicle with insufficient stop lamps.  Schaub was released on appearance tickets directing him to appear before the Town of Meredith Court on a later date.

The annual Blood Drive in Honor of Trooper Christopher Skinner will be held today at the 5 Mile Point Fire Station in Kirkwood.  The Drive will be held from 12:00 Noon until 6:00 PM, Trooper Skinner was killed in the line of duty while conducting a traffic stop on I-81 in Broome County in 2014.

The State had an uptick in the positivity rate of COVID 19 tests Sunday, at 8.3%, which was significantly higher than the 7 day average of over  5%.  Over 124,000 were tested Sunday, with over 10,300 testing positive.  The number of Hospitalizations, ICU Patient’s and patients on Ventilators continues to climb and there were 114 deaths Sunday attributed to the virus.

Chenango County Public Health reported 88 new COVID 19 cases since last Thursday; they are up to 1108 cases, with 9 hospitalized, 138 Active Cases, 511 Quarantines and 16 deaths.

The state Legislature is expected to pass an emergency bill in a special session this week that would extend an eviction moratorium and strengthen a variety of laws for renters and homeowners due to the COVID-19 pandemic.  Legislative leaders will pass the COVID-19 Emergency Eviction and Foreclosure Prevention Act to keep people in their homes and help small landlords through May 1st 2021, Governor Cuomo said today that he will sign the bill into law.

Chenango County Sheriff’s Office arrested 38 year old Brandon Hannah of Norwich for Criminal Contempt.  Hannah is accused of violating an order of protection; he was remanded to the Chenango County Sheriff’s Office on $5,000 cash bail and $10,000 bond.

35 year old Heather Prince of Mt Upton was arrested by the Chenango County Sheriff’s Office for 2 counts of Petit Larceny, 2 counts of Unlawful Possession of Personal Identification Information & 2 counts of Identity Theft.  Prince is accused of taking 2 separate victim's credit card information while working at a local business & then she allegedly used the credit cards to make unlawful money transactions. Prince was released on an appearance ticket to appear in the Town of Norwich Court at a later date.

A.M. NEWS Monday 12-28-20

The Town of Sidney will be holding a Special Meeting and receive public comments and act on the proposed Annexation request from the Village of Sidney for 2 parcels totaling 5.6 acres along County Route 4 in Sidney.  The meeting will take place at 7:00 p.m. at 44 Grand Street in Sidney.

Former state Assemblyman Bill Magee died on Christmas Eve, at a nursing home in Morrisville, he was 81.  Magee served from 1990 to 2018 in the State Assembly, representing a district that included Madison, Otsego and Oneida counties. He recently had the COVID virus, though an official cause of death has not been released.

Delaware County Public Health announced that the 11th & 12th patients have died of Covid-19 related complications.  County officials announced 40 new cases since last Thursday, Christmas Eve, with 86 active cases, 3 hospitalized, 252 quarantined.

Otsego County Health Department announced new COVID numbers Saturday, they report 114 Active cases, 29 new cases, 16 are hospitalized, and they have had 12 deaths reported.

New York State Health Department reported a 5.8% positivity Rate for COVID Saturday, with over 130,000 tested & 7623 positives. Hospitalizations, ICU patients & Patients on Ventilators all continue to increase, there were 115 Deaths Saturday.

Delaware County DPW announced that Bridge 136 over Dug Road/ Old Route 10 over Cold Spring Brook in the town of Deposit have been closed due to flooding.  Inspections are underway and the bridge will be re-opened when it is deemed safe.

Otsiningo Park in Broome County will remain closed until further notice, due to flooding & subsequent repairs that are needed because of the flooding.

A.M. NEWS THURSDAY 12-24-20

State Police and local law enforcement agencies throughout New York will be stepping up patrols to crack down on impaired driving during the holiday travel season. The enforcement campaign will run through Friday, January 1st, it is part of the national “Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over” initiative designed to reduce alcohol and drug-related traffic crashes.

The State tested over 204,000 people for the COVID virus Tuesday, with 5.8% testing positive.  Governor Cuomo stated that Hospitalizations, the number of patients in ICU Beds & the number of those on Ventilators continues to increase, 164 died Tuesday from the virus.

Otsego County Department of Health urges residents to avoid Travel this holiday season as it can increase your chance of SPREADING AND GETTING COVID-19.  Otsego County reported 16 new cases of COVID Wednesday, 15 are hospitalized, there are 122 Active cases & 1 death has been reported, this brings the total number of deaths to 12.

Delaware County Public Health reported 6 new COVID cases Wednesday, they still have 87 active cases, 3 are hospitalized and 325 are quarantined.

Bassett Healthcare Network received its first allocation of the Moderna COVID-19 vaccine this week and vaccinated staff that works in direct patient care areas. All 5 hospitals in the network, received their initial allotment of the Moderna vaccine just ahead of Christmas, some Bassett staff traveled to Utica and Elmira to receive the Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine. Those who received the Pfizer vaccine will be vaccinated again 21 days later, staff who receives the Moderna vaccine will get a second dose 28 days later.

The Village of Sidney has been meeting with our emergency response teams the last few days, and they are monitoring the streams and river closely.  Information will be posted on the Village Facebook page or check wcdoonline.com/river.htm.

The Village of Sidney Police Reform and Reinvention Collaborative Committee will be getting surveys out to village residents soon, to get public input regarding the Sidney Police Department. Sheri Youngs is co-chair of the committee:

(Sheri Youngs 12-23-20)

After the public input is collected, the committee will draft a reform and reinvention plan & they will make changes as needed and submit the revised plan to the Village board for approval, in March the approved plan will then be submitted to New York State.

The Broome County Sheriff's Department arrested 45-year-old William Applegate of Nineveh after a deputy pulled him over while knowing that Applegate did not have a valid license. Applegate was found to be in possession of methamphetamine, he was charged with criminal possession of a controlled substance & aggravated unlicensed operation of a vehicle & he faces court action at a later date.

New York's Wadsworth Laboratory in Albany has begun research of the new, more contagious COVID-19 strain discovered in England, they have looked at more than 3,700 virus sequences & they have not found that variant present in any of their random samples, Governor Cuomo commented about the state labs at today's COVID briefing in Albany:

(Cuomo 12-23-20)

The Wadsworth Lab and the Department of Health have made agreements with 6 hospitals from across the State to obtain additional samples for further research and are making arrangements with other hospitals to do the same, in order to find out if that virus variant is here in New York State.

The First COVID vaccines have been given at Chenango Memorial Hospital in Norwich, on Tuesday, Dr. Jason Joseph became the first to receive a COVID vaccine in Chenango County. Chenango Memorial Vice President of Service Coordination & Development, Chris Kisacky told WCDO about the arrival & distribution of the vaccines:

(Chris Kisacky 12-23-20)

Kisacky said that the 1st group of recipients getting the vaccine includes medical providers, ICU nurses, Emergency Department staff, lab personnel, a respiratory therapist and other hospital staff members.

Delaware County Sheriff's Office arrested 40 year old Bonnie Tanner of Hobart for Cruelty to animals, after deputies discovered 2 deceased dogs & one malnourished dog in her apartment. The Investigation revealed that the dogs had been held in a single bedroom for the past 6 months and had not been provided adequate food, water or veterinary care. Tanner surrendered the malnourished dog to the Dog Control Officer and it was transported to the Delaware County Humane Society in Sidney for evaluation and treatment. Tanner was issued an appearance ticket for Stamford Town Court at a later date.

The State Department of Labor released preliminary local unemployment rates for November. The State’s seasonally adjusted private sector jobs increased over the month by 36,300, or 0.5%, the State’s seasonally adjusted unemployment rate decreased from 9.2% to 8.4%. Locally, Chenango County was down to 4.6%, Delaware County 4.7% & Otsego County 4.9% in November.

Delaware County Public Health reported 7 new COVID cases Tuesday, they still have 95 active cases and 306 are in quarantine.

P.M. NEWS Monday 12-21-20

Governor Cuomo held a COVID briefing this morning, as phase 1 of COVID Vaccines are being administered around the state for health care workers, the Governor discussed the prioritizing of the vaccine distribution earlier today:

(Cuomo 12-21-20)

Over the weekend, 38,000 vaccines were administered, there were 350 Bassett Hospital employees received the COVID vaccines, more information about the vaccine program is available at ny.gov/vaccine.

Chenango County Public Health announced that they have 104 active cases of COVID-19 in Chenango County, with 11 hospitalized. Chenango County also confirmed there are 429 residents under quarantine, and 972 total cases, with 831 recoveries & 16 deaths.

Delaware County Public Health reported 7 new cases of COVID Sunday; they have 100 active cases with 4 hospitalized & 300 quarantined. Delaware County has had 596 positive cases, with 486 recoveries & 10 deaths.

Otsego County Department of Health reported 35 new COVID cases Friday with 16 hospitalized & 142 Active cases. Otsego County has had 1692 total confirmed cases, with 10 deaths.

The Festival of Lights opened up in Neahwa Park in Oneonta this past weekend. Visitors can drive through the park to see the colorful displays created by Oneonta area businesses & Organizations; the display is sponsored by First Night Oneonta & is open daily at Sundown.

The Oxford Lions Club & St. Paul’s Church in Oxford are teaming up to offer their annual "Free Will" Christmas Dinner this afternoon at 4:30at the St. Paul's Parish Hall on Main Street, the Free Christmas Dinner normally serves 200 people.

A.M. NEWS MONDAY 12-21-20

Governor Cuomo announced Saturday's COVID 19 statistics, there were over 191,000 tests conducted, with 9919 positive tests, there were 6,208 Patient Hospitalizations Statewide; 1,088 Patients in the ICU; 610 on Ventilators, there were 127 COVID-19 Deaths in Saturday, the total number of Deaths is 28,474.

Delaware County Public Health reported 23 new cases of COVID 19 Friday & 13 new cases Saturday, with 103 active cases, 3 are hospitalized and 316 are quarantined. Delaware County has had 589 total cases with 476 recoveries and 10 deaths.

Delaware County Sheriff’s Office announced the arrest of a Deputy for Driving While Intoxicated and Official Misconduct. 25 year old Anthony Shields of Colchester was arrested on December 17th by Sheriff’s Deputies for reporting to work in an alleged intoxicated condition. Shields recently graduated the Police Academy in November and was previously employed at the Sheriff’s Office as a Corrections Officer since 2017. Shields was processed and released on appearance tickets reportable to the Delhi Town Court on January 26th & has been terminated from his position.

A Village of Bainbridge resident was arrested by the Chenango County Sheriff's Office for 1 count of criminal possession of a controlled substance and 2 counts of criminal possession of a controlled substance. Lance Madsen of Bainbridge was arrested after a traffic stop in the Village of Bainbridge; he is accused of possessing Methamphetamine with intent to sell, as well as 2 other controlled substances which were not prescribed to him. Madsen was released on an appearance ticket for Town of Bainbridge Court on a later date.

Delaware County Sheriff's office reported that a disabled vehicle blocking the I-88 exit ramp in the Town of Sidney Wednesday evening resulted in a Norwich man being ticketed. 23-year-old Richard Finnegan is accused of operating the vehicle while his driving privileges were suspended for failure to answer a summons in the Town of Norwich Court. Finnegan was ticketed for aggravated unlicensed operation and for unlicensed operation of a motor vehicle and will appear in the Town of Sidney Court on a later date.

Chenango County Sheriff's Office arrested 51 year old Joseph Bulwin following an investigation into a domestic dispute. Bulwin is accused of subjecting a victim to unwanted contact and threatened another victim under the age of 17; he was taken into custody with incident, arraigned and released to appear in the Town of New Berlin Court at a later date.

Chenango County Sheriff's Office arrested 43 year old Robert Mohammed of Plymouth for DWI and false personation, following a traffic stop on State Highway 12 in the Town of Oxford. Mohammed is accused of operating a motor vehicle under the influence of alcohol & providing a false identity to the investigating Deputy. Mohammed was released on an appearance tickets and is to return to the Town of Oxford Court on a later date.

P.M. NEWS FRIDAY 12-18-20

Governor Cuomo held a COVID 19 briefing earlier today, he said that he does not foresee shutdowns again in the state, but he said that people have to celebrate smart over the holidays so that the Hospitalizations do NOT spiral up again like they have since the Thanksgiving holidays & subsequent "Living Room" spread of the virus:

(Cuomo 12-18-20)

The state tested a record 249,000 people for COVID 19 on Thursday, with 12,694 positive tests or 5.09% of all tested.  Hospitalizations went down Thursday for the 1st time in a few weeks, to 6,081, the number of patients in an ICU bed was at 1,068, the number of patients on Ventilators was 592, there 120 deaths from COVID Thursday.

Chenango County Public Health reported another 11 Positive COVID 19 cases Friday. They have 126 active cases, 498 quarantined & 8 hospitalized.  Chenango County has had 928 cases of the virus, with 770 recoveries & 16 deaths.

NY State of Health announced New Yorkers applying for Qualified Health Plan coverage have until December 31 to sign up for health the coverage starting January 1st, 2021. Individuals who were unable to enroll by the December 15 deadline should enroll now by visiting the NY State of Health website.   More information is available at nystateofhealth.ny.gov or 1-855-355-5777

Governor Cuomo today announced that state and local law enforcement agencies throughout New York will be stepping up patrols to crack down on impaired driving during the holiday travel season. The enforcement campaign will run through Friday, January 1. This crackdown is part of the national "Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over" initiative designed to reduce alcohol and drug-related traffic crashes. It is sponsored by STOP-DWI with funding from the Governor's Traffic Safety Committee.

The Sidney Chamber of Commerce announced that Santa Claus will appear in Downtown Sidney again this Saturday& the Sidney Chamber also will have their annual house decorating contest conclude this weekend, Chamber President Teri Schunk explains:

(Teri Schunk 12-18-20)

Schunk said that Santa Claus's appearance will include masks & social distancing due to the ongoing pandemic.

A.M. NEWS Friday 12-18-20

Following the Winter Storm, Governor Cuomo Declared a STATE OF EMERGENCY in 18 Counties.  The Disaster Emergency was declared in Broome, Chenango, Delaware, & Otsego Counties locally, there were over 600 accidents on the roads statewide Thursday, with 2 fatalities.

Delaware County Public Health had 13 more COVID 19 positive cases Thursday, 79 cases are active & there are 3 people hospitalized & 318 in quarantine.  Delaware County has had 553 total cases with 464 recoveries & 10 deaths.

Otsego County Department of Health reported 14 new COVID cases reported Thursday, there are 16 hospitalized, 135 active cases & 1657 total cases & there have been 10 deaths & 840 cases associated with the 2 Oneonta colleges.

Commerce Chenango, NBT Bank, The Bainbridge Chamber of Commerce, SUNY Morrisville & others have teamed up to distribute complete holiday meals in 2 Chenango County locations today, Commerce Chenango President & CEO Kerri Green comments;

(Kerri Green 12-18-20)

Site #1 will be at SUNY Morrisville, Conkey Avenue in Norwich and pick-up time is 1:00 PM to 3:30 PM, and Site #2 will be manned by the Bainbridge Chamber of Commerce at General Clinton Park with a pick-up time of 2:00 to 3:00 PM, for those who pre-registered.

The Sidney Central School District has been notified by the Delaware County Public Health of 4 positive COVID-19 cases in the elementary school in grades K, 2, 3 and 5, Contact tracing has begun and the health department or school district officials will be in contact with any student and staff member impacted by the exposure.  The Sidney elementary school grades K-6 will transition to full remote learning for next Monday & Tuesday due to continued contact tracing efforts. Teachers will be in contact to communicate instructional schedules, there will be no change to the 7-12 instructional schedules.

P.M. NEWS THURSDAY 12-17-20

A winter storm has dumped between 24 to 40 inches of snow on the Southern tier, closing down schools, government offices & businesses throughout the region. State DOT Officials are asking people to stay off the roads so that Plow trucks can get the roads cleared quickly.  Chenango & Broome Counties have called for a State of Emergency because of the storm.

Governor Cuomo announced that over 202,000 COVID tests were administered Wednesday across the state.  there were 10,914 positive tests, or 5.38% of all tested.  The number of People in ICU Beds was up to 6147, and there were 120 deaths from the virus Wednesday.

State Police announced that I-81 Northbound in the town of Barker in Broome County was closed off & traffic had been backed up for several miles today, due to the storm & a disabled tractor trailer truck.  The road was closed northbound between exit 7 & 8, troopers in an all-terrain vehicle checked on drivers waiting for the disabled vehicle to be removed.

Chenango County Public Health had another 25 positive cases of COVID 19 reported Wednesday, they have 132 Active Cases with 7 hospitalizations, & 542 Active Quarantines. The County has had 917 Cases with 730 Total Recoveries.

The State Department of Labor today announced the state's minimum wage phase-in will continue, with the next stage taking effect on December 31st.  The minimum wage will go to $12.50 an hour in the local counties.

The Franklin Central School District Board of Education will hold a special meeting on Monday with executive session at 5:30 p.m. and open session at 6:30 p.m.  COVID-19 restrictions remain in effect and they will limit the number of people to 17 in the cafeteria for the meeting at one time.   Franklin officials announced that district residents can email the District Clerk, Donna Dean, at ddean@franklincsd.org (mailto:ddean@franklincsd.org) no later than 3:00 PM Tomorrow, to share information with the Board at Monday's meeting.

The Orpheus Theatre will hold a virtual "Home For The Holidays Cabaret" online stating this Sunday evening.  Producer Director Sarah Lynn Serafin explains:

(Sarah Lynn Serafin 12-18-20)

The event will streamed online throughout the holiday season on YouTube after the premier Sunday Night.

A.M. NEWS Thursday 12-17-20

Delaware County Public Health announced that they had 5 new cases of COVID 19 Wednesday they report 72 active cases, 1 person is hospitalized & 363 are quarantined.  they have had 540 total cases with 458 recoveries and 10 deaths.

Local government sales tax collections declined by 7.1% in November compared to the same month last year, according to State Comptroller Tom DiNapoli.  The decline is steeper than October's 5.2% decline, but not as significant as the double-digit declines in April, May & June at the beginning of the pandemic. Total local government collections in 2020 are down 10.1% compared to the same period in 2019.

Bassett Healthcare Network & Public Health department will hold a COVID 19 Vaccine Webinar Today from 12:00 Noon to 1:00 PM.  The webinar is available through ZOOM, or by calling 1-646-876-9923.

State Police arrested 38 year old Herbert Bidwell Jr., of Mount Vision for Burglary and Criminal Trespass, after Troopers responded to a report of a burglary in progress at a residence on State Highway 28 in the town of Oneonta.  The residents heard glass breaking and called 9-1-1,  troopers found Bidwell inside the residence, he had also entered another home nearby illegally,  He was also found in possession of suspected heroin. Bidwell was processed then transported to Otsego County Central Arraignment and Processing.

P.M. NEWS WEDNESDAY 12-16-20

The National Weather Service has issued a Winter Storm Warning this afternoon through tomorrow Morning as a major storm heads up the East Coast; Meteorologist Rich Townsend told WCDO News what he expects:

(Townsend 12-16-20)

Townsend & the National weather service expect a total of about 14 inches from this storm.

Unatego School District has decided that they will go to remote learning on Thursday for the Winter storm, Superintendent Dr. Dave Richards Explains:

(Dave Richards 12-16-20)

WCDO will have the full run down of how tomorrow's storm will affect area school district during the pandemic.

Governor Cuomo today held a COVID Briefing, he stated that the COVID Vaccine program is now underway in the state; the Vaccines will have no cost attached:

(Cuomo 12-16-20)

More information on the vaccine program is available at covid19vaccine.health.ny.gov.

New York State reported just less than 10,000 new COVID 19 cases on Tuesday, out of 160,947 tests conducted statewide, which translates into a 6.2% positivity rate. 115 more people were hospitalized, the state total is now 6,097, there are 1098 patients in an ICU bed, and 611 are on ventilators, there were 95 deaths Tuesday.

Chenango County Public Health announced their latest COVID 19 statistics today, they added 12 more positive cases, they have 137 Active Cases, 8 are hospitalized, 558 are Quarantined, and they have had 892 Total Confirmed Cases, with 730 recoveries & 16 deaths.

Otsego County Department of Health reported 18 new COVID cases today, there are 16 hospitalized, there are 141 active cases. Otsego County is up to 1643 cases, there have been 10 deaths, and 840 cases are attributed to SUNY Oneonta & Hartwick College.

The Delaware Valley Humane Society is partnering with Staffworks for the annual Save A Life Fundraiser; Erin Insinga of the Humane Society said that they have items posted on their Facebook page to give away for those who donate:

(Erin Insinga 12-16-20)

The Fundraiser runs through December 31st, Checks must be postmarked by December 31st in order for those donations to be matched by Staffworks; more information is available at 563-7780 or on the Delaware Valley Humane Society Facebook page.

SUNY Broome announced that they will go to all remote learning this afternoon & this evening, no decision has been made regarding Thursday classes at SUNY Broome.

A.M. NEWS WEDNESDAY 12-16-20

Otsego County Department of Health reported 28 new COVID cases Tuesday, they report 16 hospitalized and 1 more death. Otsego County has had 1625 total confirmed cases, 151 active cases, & 10 deaths.

Delaware County Announced their 10th COVID death Tuesday. They report 7 new cases, 91 active cases, 4 are hospitalized, 385 are quarantined, and there have been 535 cases with 434 recoveries.

The State Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance announced more than $100 million in additional emergency food assistance to help New Yorkers avoid food insecurity during the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. About 700,000 low-income individuals and families enrolled in SNAP will receive additional food benefits to bring them up to the maximum allowable amount for December. More information is available at otda.ny.gov/SNAP-COVID-19.

P.M. NEWS TUESDAY 12-15-20

The 1st big winter storm of the season is heading this way late Wednesday in Thursday, Local Meteorologist Rich Townsend explains:

(Townsend 12-15-20)

The National Weather service has a Winter Storm Watch in Place from 3:00 PM Wednesday through 10:00 AM Thursday.

Governor Cuomo said that Hospitalizations could approximately double in one month if the current rate of growth continues:

(Cuomo 12-15-20)

The Governor said that the fall and winter surge could lead to 11,000 people hospitalized with COVID and 3,500 additional fatalities in a month if the current rate continues.

Broome County Health Department reported another 116 positive COVID 19 cases today, they reported no deaths, they have had 154 so far.  There are 5610 recoveries & almost 4700 are being monitored by the Broome Health Department.

Chenango County Public Health reported 2 more deaths today from COVID-19.  The County reports 130 active cases, 8 active hospitalizations, 552 quarantines, there were 12 more positive cases, bringing the county total to 880. There have been 714 recoveries, 16 total deaths & over 50,000 tests have been performed.

The Town of Sidney will be holding a Special Meeting and receive public comments and act on the proposed Annexation request from the Village of Sidney for 2 parcels totaling 5.6 acres along County Route 4 in Sidney.  The meeting will take place on Monday December 28th at 7:00 p.m. at 44 Grand Street in Sidney.

The Cooperstown Central School District announced today that they will go to all remote learning until January 19th.  The district reported 1 new COVID 19 case, and a rising number of close contacts to that case, as the reason to go to remote learning.

The Otsego County Board of representatives approved of a measure to add to the staff of the County Health Department.  The Health Department continues to respond to the rising number of COVID 19 cases, at least 3 more health professionals will be added to the staff for the fight against the ongoing pandemic.

A.M. NEWS TUESDAY 12-15-20

Governor Cuomo directed state agencies to prepare emergency response assets as a coastal storm system is expected to bring heavy snow & strong winds beginning Wednesday afternoon and continuing into Thursday morning.    The track of the storm is still developing, early forecasts and models show it has the potential to deliver 7 to 12 inches of snow and sleet across the New York City, Long Island, Southern Tier and the Mid-Hudson Regions.

Otsego County Department of Health reported 11 new COVID 19 cases, 17 are hospitalized & they report another death, giving them 9 since the spring.  Otsego County has had 1597 total confirmed cases, with 146 active cases, 840 of the cases come from the Oneonta colleges.

Delaware County Public Health announced that there were 16 positive new cases of COVID 19 Monday there were 99 active cases, 4 are hospitalized, 384 are quarantined, and Delaware County has had 528 total cases with 420 recoveries & 9 deaths.

P.M. NEWS MONDAY 12-14-20

Governor Cuomo announced that COVID vaccinations began today, with thousands expected to be vaccinated.  The Governor commented about who gets the first & 2nd groupings of vaccines at his briefing today in Albany:

(Cuomo 12-14-20)

The Governor said that 90 sites to deep freeze the vaccines have been set up around the state, over 516,000 doses are expected to arrive this month, Research indicates that 75% to 85% of the population need to get vaccinated in order the spread of the virus to slow down & eventually stop, however, 49% of those polled said that they don’t want to get this vaccine.

New York State tested 159,844 people Sunday across the state for COVID, 5.66% tested positive, or 9044 people.  Hospitalizations are now up to 5,712. The number of people in ICU beds is up to 1040, the number on Ventilators is 572 & there were 83 COVID related deaths Sunday.

Chenango County Public Health reported 87 more positive cases of COVID 19 since Friday.  They have 134 Active Cases, 573 Quarantines, 8 people are hospitalized, and they have had a total of 868 Confirmed Cases.  Chenango County has had 699 recoveries, 14 deaths and over 50,000 tests have been conducted.

The Broome County Health Department reported 180 more positive COVID 19 tests since Friday, and they also report 3 more deaths.  They report 6317 total cases, 154 deaths, there have been 5545 recoveries & over 4600 are being monitored by the Health Department.

The Bainbridge Chamber of Commerce announced that there will be no General Membership Meeting Tuesday, due to an uptick in local COVID 19 Cases.  Chamber officials said that 1 agenda item that needs to be finalized prior to the end of the year is the vote for an open Board of Director Seat. There are 3 openings due to Director Terms expiring, 2 Directors Barb Mulkins & Matt Germond are willing to continue, there is 1 nomination for the open seat, and that is Roger Barnhart.  Anyone with an objection to the nominee or the Directors staying on should email:  bainbridge.chamber@yahoo.com.

Delaware County Public Health reported that 74% of recent COVID cases are linked to “living room spread” involving small gatherings among family and friends.  Delaware County had 12 new cases Saturday & 5 more Sunday, 83 cases are active with 4 hospitalized & 402 are quarantined.  The County is up to 512 positive cases, 420 recoveries & 9 deaths.

Otsego County Department of Health reported 25 new cases of COVID Friday, 27 on Saturday & 21 on Sunday.  There are currently 869 individuals on quarantine for being in close contact with a positive case.  Otsego County has had 1588 total confirmed cases, 170 active cases, 16 are hospitalized, there have been 8 deaths, and 768 cases are linked to SUNY Oneonta & 71 confirmed cases linked to Hartwick College

The Sidney Central School District announced that the district has been notified that a 1st grade student has tested positive for COVID-19. The student has not been on campus since Tuesday, December 8th. The Delaware County Health Department has conducted an investigation and the contact tracing has been completed. There will be no change to the instructional model at this time.

A former aide to Governor Cuomo, who is now running for Manhattan borough president, has accused him of sexual harassment in a series of tweets Sunday.  Lindsey Boylan tweeted that the Democratic governor “sexually harassed her for years.   Cuomo’s press office said that there was no truth to the claims.

The Broome County Health Department had another 73 positive COVID 19 tests to report today, bringing their total to 6137 since the spring.  They reported 1 more death bringing their total to 151.  They have 5251 recoveries and the Health Department is monitoring almost 5000 people.

Chenango County Public Health reported 14 more positive tests for COVID today, they report  125 Active Cases, 502 Active Quarantines, 7 people are Hospitalized & 14 have died.  Chenango County has had 781 Confirmed Cases since March, with 653 recoveries & over 48,800 tests have been performed.

Delaware County Sheriff's Deputies were contacted by a Deposit resident who reported that her social security number was used by another person to commit fraud.  22 year old Kinda Osborne of Deposit is accused of misrepresenting herself as a State employee, in order to gain access to the victim’s social security number, which she is accused of using to apply for a debit card.  Osborne was charged with Identity Theft & Criminal Impersonation, she was released on appearance tickets for the Town of Deposit Court at a later date.

Delaware County Sheriff’s Office arrested 22-year-old Sean Gillespie of Bovina on a warrant issued by the Town of Delhi Court.  Gillespie was wanted for Criminal Mischief, Grand Larceny & 2 counts of Petty Larceny, for allegedly removing catalytic converters from vehicles that were parked in the Town of Delhi.  Gillespie was located by the City of Oneonta Police Department; he was arraigned in the Town of Andes Court & was remanded to the Delaware County Correctional Facility on $5,000 cash bail or $10,000 bond.

The Sidney Chamber of Commerce announced that Santa Claus will be visiting the next 2 Saturdays, but due to the pandemic, the appearance will be a little different this year, Chamber President Teri Schunk explains:

(Teri Schunk 12-11-20)

Also this year, the annual Holiday House Decorating contest will be held; Judges will make the round on Saturday December 19th at 7:00 PM.

THE New York STATE PUBLIC HIGH SCHOOL ATHLETIC ASSOCIATION ANNOUNCED TODAY THAT THE 2021 WINTER STATE CHAMPIONSHIPS HAVE BEEN CANCELLED.  HIGH RISK SPORTS SUCH AS BASKETBALL, WRESTLING AND ICE HOCKEY HAVE ALSO BEEN POSTPONED UNTIL AUTHORIZATION IS GRANTED BY STATE OFFICIALS. LOW AND MODERATE RISK REGULAR SEASON SPORTS CONTINUE TO BE PERMITTED, MORE INFORMATION WILL BE AVAILABLE SOON, FOR THE MOST UP-TO-DATE LOCAL SPORTS NEWS, go to WCDOSPORTS.COM.

A.M. NEWS FRIDAY 12-11-20

Governor Cuomo reported that over 197,000 COVID tests were conducted statewide on Wednesday, with 10,178 positives, or 5.15%.  Patient Hospitalizations went up by 171 to  5,164, patients in ICU beds continues to climb, they are up to 994 & 539 patients are on Ventilators, there were 92 Deaths Wednesday.

Otsego County Department of Health reported 20 new cases Thursday, Since December 1st there have been 203 confirmed cases reported, 745 are quarantined for being in close contact with a positive case.  Otsego County has had 1516 total confirmed cases, with 151 active cases, 17 are hospitalized, there have been 8 deaths, and more than half of the cases came from SUNY Oneonta & Hartwick College.

Delaware County Public Health reported 6 new cases of COVID Thursday they have 95 active cases with 5 hospitalized & 338 in quarantine.  Most of the new cases are attributed to "living Room Spread" from small home gatherings.  Delaware County has had 481 cases, 377 recoveries and 9 deaths.

Delaware County Sheriff's Deputies responded to a 2 car accident December 4th in the Town of Delhi that has resulted in the arrest of a Delhi man on driving while ability impaired by drugs charges.  Deputies were dispatched to Spring Valley Road in the Town of Delhi, where 44-year-old Joseph Garone of Delhi had allegedly backed into another vehicle, causing substantial damage, he appeared to be under the influence of drugs & was taken into custody.  Garone was charged with driving while ability impaired by drugs, unsafe backing and failure to notify DMV of an address change he was released on an appearance tickets for Town of Delhi Court at a later date.

Chenango County Public Health announced that they have 13 more positive cases & another death from COVID 19.  The county reports a 14th death, 99 Active Cases, 480 Active Quarantines 7 people are hospitalized.  Chenango County has had 767 Total Confirmed Cases, 647 recoveries & they have conducted over 48,300 tests.

Broome County Health Department reports another 84 positive COVID cases today, bringing their total to 6064 since the spring.  They also reported 5 more deaths, bring their toll up to 150, they have had 5157 recoveries & they are monitoring over 4700 people.

Governor Cuomo today announced the launch of the New York Forward Small Business Lease Assistance Partnership. The program will provide small businesses and their landlords that have struggle during the COVID 19 Pandemic, with informational resources and pro bono assistance to help both parties reach mutually-beneficial lease workout agreements. This service is available to all New York State small businesses and landlords, and participation is voluntary.   Additionally, the New York Forward Loan Fund continues to provide working capital loans of up to $100,000 to help small businesses and non-profit organizations reopen.

Delaware County Sheriff's deputies arrested 21 year old Jessica Winans of Unadilla after a report of a motor vehicle accident on River Road in the Town of Sidney.  Upon arrival Troopers observed that Winans exhibited signs of intoxication during their interview.   Winans was charged with DWI, operating a motor vehicle with a BAC of .08% or more, operating a motor vehicle while using a mobile phone, as well as other charges. Winans was released to appear in the Town of Sidney Court on a later date.

A.M. NEWS Thursday 12-10-20

Otsego County Department of Health had 21 new COVID 19 cases reported Wednesday, giving the county 1496 total confirmed cases,  143 active cases,  17 are hospitalized, there have been 8 deaths;  767 cases linked to SUNY Oneonta & 71 confirmed cases linked to Hartwick College

Delaware County Public Health reported 11 new cases of COVID 19 Wednesday, with 96 active cases, 8 hospitalizations & 320 in quarantine.  Delaware County has had 475 total cases, 370 recoveries & 9 deaths.

The National Baseball Hall of Fame has announced that Al Michaels will be the 45th recipient of the Ford C. Frick Award for broadcasting excellence. He will be honored during induction weekend in July 2021.  Michaels became lead broadcaster on ABC’s “Monday Night Baseball” telecasts in 1983. He was in the booth when an earthquake struck at San Francisco’s Candlestick Park in 1989.

Barbara Ann Heegan will resign shortly from the Otsego County Chamber of Commerce, to be the next president and CEO of the Greenwood South Carolina Chamber of Commerce.   Heegan starts January 4th, the Chamber Board of Directors announced the appointment of Alan Rubin as Interim President & CEO effective Tuesday, December 29th.

State Police arrested 26 year old Nicholas Weathers of Endicott for Criminal Possession of a Weapon, Unlawfully Fleeing an Officer in a Motor Vehicle.  Troopers spotted a vehicle traveling at a high rate of speed, they stopped the vehicle and began to interview Weathers, When troopers asked him to step out of his vehicle, and he drove off.   Weathers parked in Endicott and took off on foot, he was taken into custody.  Weathers was found in possession of a loaded handgun; he does not possess a pistol permit.  Weathers was transported to Wilson Hospital for an evaluation, he was later processed at Broome Central Processing.

P.M. NEWS WEDNESDAY 12-9-20

Governor Cuomo held a COVID 19 briefing today, he outlined the priorities for Vaccine distributions in the state, with the first shipment expected sometime next week:

(Cuomo 12-9-20)

The Governor said that 90 sites are being set up around the state for the cold storage of the Vaccines; the first shipments are expected from Pfizer, with more coming from Moderna & Pfizer later in the month.

Governor Cuomo reported that 10,585 New Yorkers tested positives for COVID 19 Tuesday, out of more than 194,000 tested, or 5.44% of all tested.  4,993 Patients are Hospitalizations Statewide, 952 Patients in the ICU; 521 are on ventilators, there were 95 COVID-19 Deaths in New York State Tuesday.

Chenango County Public Health reported another 15 positive COVID 19 cases Tuesday, bringing their totals to 754.  They have 95 active cases with 6 hospitalizations, 452 are quarantined 640 have recovered & there have been 13 deaths.

The Broome County Health Department announced that they are up to 5980 total COVID 19 cases, after announcing 79 more positive tests today.  The county has 145 deaths, over 5106 recoveries with over 4700 being monitored by the Health Department.

Bassett Healthcare Network & local Public Health Departments announced that they will hold a COVID 19 Vaccine Webinar on Thursday December 17th from 12:00 Noon to 1:00 PM.  The webinar will be available through ZOOM or by calling 1-646-876-9923 shortly before the beginning of the webinar.

19th District Congressman Antonio Delgado is holding a Facebook Live Town Hall at 7:00 PM tonight, to update constituents and answer their questions.  Interested constituents can submit questions in advance by going to the congressman's Facebook page.

A.M. NEWS WEDNESDAY 12-9-20

State Police were dispatched early Monday Morning to a report of a fire on Welton Street in the town of Colesville.  60 year old Wendy Sutton died as a result of the fire, Harpursville, Windsor, Ouaguaga and West Colesville Fire Departments responded.   The fire is not believed to be suspicious & the investigation is ongoing.

Governor Cuomo reported that 9935 tested positives for COVID 19 Monday, out of more than 162,000 tested, or 5.74% of all tested.  4,835 Patients are Hospitalizations Statewide, 906 Patients in the ICU; 493 are on ventilators, there were 74 COVID-19 Deaths in New York State Monday.

Otsego County Department of Health reported 35 new COVID cases reported Tuesday, the county now reports 1475 total confirmed cases, 134 active cases,  17 are hospitalized, there have been 8 deaths,  767 cases linked to SUNY Oneonta & 71 confirmed cases linked to Hartwick College

Delaware County is reporting 18 new cases of COVID-19 Tuesday and 5 recoveries. The known active cases have reached 100. To date there have been 464 confirmed positive cases, 298 people are under mandatory quarantine, 93 people are isolated at home and 7 people are in a hospital, 9 people have died and 355 have recovered.

Commerce Chenango, NBT Bank, The Bainbridge Chamber of Commerce, SUNY Morrisville & others have teamed up to distribute complete holiday meals in 2 Chenango County locations on December 18th. Commerce Chenango President & CEO Kerri Green comments;

(Kerri Green 12-9-20)

Site #1 on December 18th will be at SUNY Morrisville, Conkey Ave in Norwich and pick-up time is 1:00 PM to 3:30 PM, reservations are requested at 334-5144, Site #2 will be manned by the Bainbridge Chamber of Commerce at General Clinton Park with a pick-up time of 2:00 to 3:00 PM, pre-registration is requested at 607-316-2319.

P.M. NEWS TUESDAY 12-8-20

State Supreme Court Judge Scott DelConte ruled today that the Board of Elections for all 8 counties in the 22nd Congressional District must fix their errors in the ballot counting process.  Justice DelConte said that the Board of Elections must ensure there are no more misplaced ballots, that all challenged ballots noted as challenged and all previously uncounted ballots must be counted, if those 3 items are not finished, a recount may be ordered.  Vote counts had both Anthony Brinidisi & Claudia Tenney leading by about a dozen votes at various times, after more than 28,000 ballots were counted.

Chenango County Public Health continues to see an increase in COVID 19 cases locally, with 15 more positives reported Monday.  Chenango County is up to 89 Active Cases, 6 are hospitalized & 430 are quarantined.  Chenango County had had 739 Total Cases with 632 recoveries 13 deaths and over 47,800 tests have been conducted.

All of the local Counties have seen an increase in COVID 19 cases since the beginning of November, with more increases expected due to continuing Holliday gatherings, Heather Warner of Delaware County Public Health told WCDO news that we could see New York on Pause again if people continue to ignore guidance:

(Heather Warner 12-8-20)

Governor Cuomo has Hospitals will be Mandated to Expand Capacity by 25%, Regions to Be Designated as Red Zones if Hospital Capacity Is Projected to Become Critical, New York State is Asking Retired Doctors and Nurses to Return to Service & Indoor Dining could be Reduced to 25% in the upstate counties if a Region's Hospitalizations Do Not Stabilize in Next few Days.

Delaware County Sheriff Craig DuMond said that he continues to receive phone calls regarding a grandparent scam, where someone calls an unsuspecting grandparent pretending to be a grandchild in trouble, or a law enforcement official who has arrested a grandchild.  Sheriff DuMond told WCDO News that unfortunately, the caller sounds realistic:

(DuMond 12-8-20)

Sheriff DuMond said that people can report any fraud targeting older people to the Federal Trade Commission online or at 877-382-4357.

Speculation continues to swirl regarding the future of Acco Brands in Sidney, as employment has continues to decrease over the last several years, Julie McEwan is in Media Relations in Acco's Illinois headquarters, and she told WCDO News that nothing has been decided yet:

(Julie McEwan 12-8-20)

McEwan said that the company typically employs up to 500 people at their Sidney facility.

State Police arrested 27 year old Brittany Cochran of Binghamton for felony Possession of a Forged Instrument; she is accused of trying to purchase a vehicle from a private seller using counterfeit money.  State Police also arrested 36 year old Hahseem McQueen of Binghamton for Criminal Possession of Stolen Property, in connection with the case, both were transported to Broome County Central Arraignment and Processing after their arrests.

Raymond Corporation’s Sales and Service Centers raised a total of $11,700 for breast cancer awareness during the 7th annual Pink Pallet Jack Project online auction.  3 Raymond powered pallet jacks were auctioned off on eBay between October 19th & the 29th, with all the proceeds split evenly between the 3 organizations,  Winning bids were accepted from 3 transportation companies, with their donations going to assist patients recovering from breast cancer treatments, both physically and financially.

A.M. NEWS TUESDAY 12-8-20

Otsego County Department of Health reported 22 new cases of COVID 19 Monday; there has been a cluster of 12 cases associated with the Cooperstown American Legion.  Otsego County reports 1440 total confirmed cases, 127 active cases, 14 hospitalized, there have been 8 deaths since March.

Delaware County Public Health announced that they had 8 news COVID cases Monday, with 87 active cases 5 hospitalized & 254 are quarantined, they are up to 446 total cases with 350 recoveries & 9 deaths.

P.M. NEWS MONDAY 12-7-20

Governor Cuomo held a COVID briefing today, with Dr. Anthony Fauci of the CDC, the governor recapped the state strategy as more small gatherings are expected over the holidays, which is contributing to 70% of the new cases currently:

(Cuomo 12-7-20)

Dr. Fauci said that if people let their guard down & don't follow the CDC guidelines, the surge could hit badly in the New Year:

(Dr. Anthony Fauci 12-7-20)

The state reported that 152000 tests were performed Sunday, with 7302 positive  tests, or about 4.8% of all tested, over 4600 are hospitalized, 872 are in ICU beds & 477 are on ventilators, and another 80 died from the virus Sunday.

Chenango County Public reported today that they have had 42 new COVID 19 cases since Friday’s report, and 2 more residents died from COVID complications.   The County now has 87 active cases, 405 are quarantined, and 5 are hospitalized.  Chenango County had had 724 total cases since March, with 13 deaths, 618 recoveries & over 47,500 tests conducted.

1 person was killed in a 3 vehicle accident Saturday Night on State Route 235 in the town of Coventry.  26 year old Kyle Smith of Afton was attempting to pass a vehicle driven by 20 year old Austin Smith of Harpursville, Kyle Smith attempted to get back into his lane after observing a 3rd vehicle driven by 36 year old Dennis Robinson of Susquehanna Pennsylvania, Kyle Smith lost control, hit Austin Smith's vehicle, which then hit the Robinson Truck.  Austin Smith was pronounced dead at the scene, the investigation is continuing.

A traffic stop in the town of Norwich led the to the arrest of a man wanted for stealing a camper from Otsego County in October then abandoning it in Binghamton.   State Police arrested 46 year old Clint Payne of Beaver, Pennsylvania, for Grand Larceny, Criminal Possession of Stolen Property and Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance.  On November 20th,  Payne came to the State Police Norwich barracks inquiring about another matter, when he drove off a trooper observed that Payne’s vehicle had multiple vehicle and traffic infractions, he was stopped & the trooper discovered that Payne was wanted for Grand Larceny in Otsego County & he was accused of possessing of methamphetamine.  Payne was processed in Oneonta, the Otsego County Central Arraignment and Processing & Broome County Central Arraignment and Processing.

State Police arrested 26 year old John Flora of Windsor for allegedly burglarizing residences in the town of Windsor. An investigation by State Police BCI arrested Flora at his residence.  He was charged with multiple counts of 2nd degree Burglary & was taken to Broome County Central Arraignment and Processing.

Village of Sidney Police Reform and Reinvention Collaborative Committee has had 16 community members appointed, with Village residents, business owners, Religious leaders, Village Board members, Members of the Police Department, Delaware County Public Defender's office  and Delaware County District Attorney John Hubbard.  The committee has reviewed how the Sidney Police Department operates and with public input determines what changes, if any, need to be made.  Sidney mayor Andy Matviak told WCDO News about how they will get public input:

(Andy Matviak 12-7-20)

After the public input in the months of December and January, they will draft a reform and reinvention plan that will be shared with the public, in February the committee will make any needed changes & submit the revised plan to the Village board for approval. In March the approved plan will be submitted to New York State.

A.M. NEWS MONDAY 12-7-20

Attorneys for the Claudia Tenney and Anthony Brindisi campaigns filed new motions in State Supreme Court in Oswego regarding the ongoing ballot counts in the 22nd congressional district race.   55 recently-discovered Chenango County early voting ballots & about 2000 other disputed ballots will be ruled on by Justice Scott Delconte in State Supreme Court in Oswego this afternoon.

The State Health Department reported that over 205,000 people were tested for COVID Saturday, with over 9700 positive tests.  Patient Hospitalization continue to increase to 4,442, the Number in ICU beds is up to 850, the Number on ventilators increased to 464, there were 56 deaths Saturday.

The Sidney Central School District has been notified that a student has tested positive for COVID-19. This person has not been on campus since Wednesday, December 2nd. The Delaware County Health Department is conducting the investigation and will notify anyone who they feel may have been exposed. The teachers and students impacted by the quarantine have been contacted, as they will transition to a remote learning environment.

The Walton Central School District will learn remotely today and Tuesday, after the Delaware County Health officials notified the district of a positive COVID-19 case involving a staff member, contact tracing will take place the next two days.

Delaware County Public Health announced that they had 13 new COVID 19 cases Sunday, bringing their total to 438 since spring.  There are 87 active cases, 5 are hospitalized & 246 are quarantined.

Otsego County Department of Health announced that they had 14 COVID cases reported Saturday & 22 new cases Sunday.  Otsego County is up to 1418 total confirmed cases, 109 are active cases, 9 are hospitalized, and there have been 8 deaths since March.  Otsego County Department of Health is announcing a potential COVID 19 exposure at the American Legion 60 Main Street Cooperstown, from November 25th through November 30th, should monitor themselves for symptoms and get tested.

P.M. NEWS FRIDAY 12-4-20

O’Connor Hospital in Delhi is hosting a special drive-through parade for families to visit Santa, Mrs. Claus, and others on Saturday, from 11:00 AM to 12:00 Noon.  The event will be a pandemic related alternative to Delhi’s traditional holiday parade; it will feature goodie bags, gifts, and other surprises for those who drive through. Vehicles are asked to follow traffic and drive around the front upper parking lot of O’Connor Hospital, children are asked to bring their Christmas wish lists for Santa, and more information is available at 746-0331.

An Upside Down Parade day will be held in Afton tomorrow, after the annual Christmas Parade had to be cancelled due to COVID 19.  Mellissa Matthews of 6Zero7 events told WCDO News that they will be doing instead of the parade:

(Melissa Matthews 12-4-20)

The full schedule is available at the "Afton In Winter" Facebook Page.

Chobani is hosting its 6th annual Community Giveaway at the Chenango County Fairgrounds in Norwich to show appreciation to the Central New York region.  This year’s event moved to a larger venue due to the Coronavirus. All the fun takes place with Chobani on Saturday, from 10:00 AM to 12:00 Noon while supplies last. Every December, the company hands out 5,000 free cases of Chobani products as a thank you gift to local residents.

State Police conducted an Underage Drinking Initiative that spanned 3 counties, an employee at Blue Ox on State Route 8 in the town of Guilford was found to be not in compliance with the laws dealing with the sale of alcohol to person under the age of 21.  22 year old Matthew Tubbs of Norwich was charged with Prohibited Sale to a Person Under the Age of 21, He was issued an appearance ticket to the town of Guilford court.

Chenango County Public Health announced that they had 652 COVID 19 cases since March, with 51 Active Cases, 268 Quarantines & 4 Hospitalizations. there have been 11 deaths, 588 recoveries & over 45,700 tests performed.

Broome County Health Department announced that they had 106 more COVID 19 positive cases Friday, bringing their total up to 5596 since the Spring, they have 622 active cases, with 30 hospitalized, there were 4 more deaths, their death toll is up to 140, over 4200 are being monitored by the Health Department.

A.M. NEWS FRIDAY 12-4-20

State Police issued 1,779 tickets during this year's Operation Hardhat, an initiative between State Police, the State Department of Transportation and others, to crack down on work zone violations and highlight the importance of safe driving when encountering construction, maintenance and emergency operations along state highways.   The number of violations issued was 69.8% Higher than the 2019 Operation Hard Hat.

The Sidney Chamber of Commerce is holding a virtual Tree Lighting Ceremony this afternoon at 5:00 PM.  Sidney Chamber President Teri Schunk explains:

(Teri Schunk 12-3-20)

Schunk said that the event can be found through the Sidney Chamber of Commerce Facebook page with a "Facebook Live" Event.

Governor Cuomo reported that the state tested over 203,000 people Wednesday, with 9855 new positive tests for COVID 19.  Patient Hospitalization were up to 4,063, the Number of ICU patients was up to 783 with 377 on ventilators, there were 61 deaths, the state death told is now at  26,955.

Otsego County Department of Health reported 16 new cases of COVID 19 on Thursday, the county has had 1356 total confirmed cases, they report 91 active cases with 10 hospitalized, and there have been 8 deaths.

The 24th Annual Delaware County Clean Sweep began today & continues Saturday.  Farms, businesses & local governments will bring their hazardous materials for collection Friday at their designated times, households that have registered will bring their hazardous items Saturday.

P.M. NEWS THURSDAY 12-3-20

Governor Cuomo announced that New York State will receive an initial delivery of COVID-19 vaccine doses for 170,000 New Yorkers; they should start arriving on December 15. Governor Cuomo said that it could be difficult to get enough vaccines, and over time it could be difficult to get people to want to get the vaccine, which is why they will have their own state panel check out the FDA approvals:

(Cuomo 12-3-30)

Governor Cuomo said that the State expects additional allocations of vaccines from Pfizer and Moderna later this month.

State & Local Health Departments are seeing a rapid increase in COVID 19 cases in the last month, with a state wide increase in Hospitalizations of about 350% since November 1st.  Heather Warner of Delaware County Public Health told WCDO news of the latest trends that they are finding with COVID 19 positive cases:

(Heather Warner 12-3-20)

Warner said that people need to remember to wash their hands, wear their facemasks correctly, socially distance by 6 feet and avoid large gatherings or event get together with a small number of people in one residence or location.

Chenango County Public Health announced their 11th death from the COVID 19 virus today.  They report 51 active cases, 4 hospitalizations, 268 are quarantined & they are up to 652 cases since the Spring with 588 recoveries.

Delaware County Sheriff’s Deputies were dispatched Wednesday morning to a tractor trailer rollover on County Highway 16 in the Town of Delhi.  Deputies located a pick-up truck and flatbed trailer  carrying a farm tractor that had overturned while navigating a sharp curve, the driver 76 year old Donald Hebbard of Franklin, was not injured,  diesel fuel was spilled from the farm tractor & the DEC Spill Team responded to the scene for evaluation and clean-up.  Hebbard was issued a ticket for speed not reasonable and prudent.

The 24th Annual Delaware County Clean Sweep days begin tomorrow & continue on Saturday.  Farms, businesses & local governments will bring their hazardous materials for collection Friday at their designated times, households that have registered will bring their hazardous items Saturday.

the Chenango county historical Society will hold their "Parade of Trees" event differently this year due to the pandemic, Executive Director Jessica Moquin explains:

(Jessica Moquin 12-3-20)

Charitable organizations can still participate by contacting the Chenango Historical Association tomorrow at 334-9227 or by email to Operations@ChenangoHistorical.org.

Hospice Chenango is holding their annual "Light Up A Life" event virtually this year, organizer Inda Gillette explains:

(Inda Gillette 12-3-20)

Gillette said that the sale of ornaments can be purchased through tomorrow; more information is available at 334-3556.

Bidding ends tomorrow on the Bainbridge Chamber of Commerce Holiday Wreaths fundraiser, Chamber spokesperson June White explains:

(June White 12-3-20)

The highest bidders on each of the 22 wreaths will be notified, and the wreaths will be distributed at Bob's Diner in Bainbridge.

A.M. NEWS THURSDAY 12-3-20

Otsego County Department of Health reported 16 new COVID cases reported Wednesday, they report 91 active cases, 11 are hospitalized, they've had 1340 total confirmed cases with 8 deaths, and 766 cases are linked to SUNY Oneonta & 71 confirmed cases linked to Hartwick College.

Delaware County Public Health announced that they had 8 more new cases of COVID Wednesday, they have 76 active cases, 4 are hospitalized, & 255 are quarantined.  Delaware County has had 389 total cases, with 304 recoveries and 9 deaths.

The Delaware County Chamber of Commerce & Delaware Opportunities have teamed up for the annual Toys for Tots campaign, Area drop off points include Delhi Telephone Company, Arc of Delaware County, Beaver Mountain Log Homes in Deposit, Mirabito Energy Products on Steiner Road in Sidney & the Sidney Airport.  The campaign runs through tomorrow when Chamber staff will pick up the toys from member businesses, more information is available at 746-1600.

Broome County Health Department reported 3 more deaths from COVID 19 Wednesday, they have had 134 deaths since March; they've had 5395 cases so far, with 4693 recoveries and over 4000 are being monitored by the department.

Chenango County Sheriff’s Office arrested 64 year old John Brussell of Oxford for aggravated unlicensed operation. After conducting a traffic stop on State Highway 12 in the Town of Oxford, Brussell is accused of operating a motor vehicle without a valid New York State driver’s license. Brussell was released on an appearance ticket and is to return to the Town of Oxford Court on a later date.

P.M. NEWS WEDNESDAY 12-2-20

Governor Cuomo held a COVID 19 briefing today, he outlined how the state will try to keep hospitalizations from COVID at manageable levels, and the state will have to work to get everyone vaccinated against COVID, once the vaccines physically arrive in the state:

(Cuomo 12-2-20)

The Governor said that over 193,000 tests were conducted Tuesday, with over 8900 testing positive, about 4.6% of all tested.  Hospitalizations continue to increase, with 3924 hospitalized, 742 are now in an ICU bed & 373 are on ventilators, there were 69 deaths Tuesday.

Chenango County Public Health issued a COVID19 Update today, they report 49 active cases with 5 people hospitalized & 256 are quarantined.  Chenango County has had 225 cases since November 1st and 649 cases since March, they have had 578 recoveries.

The City of Oneonta Common Council passed their $15.7 million dollar budget at their meeting Tuesday.  The Property tax increase is about 2%, the budget was much less than the previous year's budget due to lost revenue from the pandemic.

The tree lighting ceremony at Rockefeller Center will be held virtually tonight. There will be no public viewing of the lighting ceremony, but New Yorkers can watch it on NBC at 8:00 PM.  Starting Thursday, December 3rd, the tree will open to the public with protocols in place to manage crowds.  This Year's tree came from West Oneonta.

The State Division of Consumer Protection reminds consumers that New York’s gender price equity law protects shoppers this holiday season.  This new law eliminates the “Pink Tax,” otherwise known as the practice of charging different prices for "substantially similar" consumer goods or services that are marketed to different genders, now, similar products must have the same price.

A.M. NEWS WEDNESDAY 12-2-20

The controversy continues in the 22nd Congressional District, which showed that Republican Claudia Tenney had regained a slight lead over incumbent Democrat Anthony Brindisi.  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 Monday, however 55 more uncounted absentee ballots were discovered in Chenango County, the next court action is expected next Monday December 7th, when Judge DelConte is expected to rule on 2000 disputed ballots & the new Chenango Ballots.

Broome County Health Department today reported another 376 positive COVID 19 since Wednesday November 25th, they have had a total of 5313 cases, they reported 15 more deaths since last Wednesday, they report a total of 131 deaths, they've had 4652 recoveries since March & over 4000 are being monitored.

Otsego County Department of Health reported 11 new COVID 19 cases reported Tuesday, they now have had a total of 1325 cases,  there are 85 active cases with 8 hospitalized, there have been 8 deaths with 765 cases linked to SUNY Oneonta and 71 confirmed cases linked to Hartwick College.  Otsego County has had 292 positive tests in the last month; only 27 of the cases came from the 2 college campuses.

Delaware County Public Health announced that they had 8 more COVID 19 positive tests Tuesday, with 72 active cases, 4 are hospitalized & 239 are quarantined.  Delaware County Public Health reports a total of 380 cases, 299 recoveries & 9 deaths since March. Delaware County has had 192 new positive tests in the last 30 days.

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.

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.

Delaware Academy announced that a student tested positive for COVID 19, their middle and high schools moved to fully remote instruction yesterday & again today.  The student was last in attendance on Tuesday, November 24th; Students will be notified today regarding tomorrow's instructional plans.

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 11-30-20

Governor Cuomo held a daily COVID 19 briefing today, as the numbers keep increasing, he talked about the importance of Hospitals being ready for the next wave of activity:

(Cuomo 11-30-20)

The state tested over 148,000 Sunday, with over 6800 people testing positive, a rate of 4.5%, the number of people hospitalized is 3532, triple the number in the last 30 days, there were 57 deaths from the virus Sunday, the state death toll is 26,747.

Chenango County Public Health announced their latest COVID 19 numbers today, they have 60 active cases, 324 Quarantines & 6 Hospitalizations, they have had 639 total cases, with 551 Recoveries, 10 deaths & they have conducted 44,991 tests.

The Delaware Valley Humane Society is partnering with Staffworks for the annual Save A Life Fundraiser, Erin Insinga of the Humane Society explains:

(Erin Insinga 11-30-20)

The Fundraiser runs through December 31st, more information is available at 563-7780 or on the Delaware Valley Humane Society Facebook page.

State Police announced that Superintendent Keith Corlett will retire after 35 years with the New York State Police. He became the 16th Superintendent of the New York State Police on June 4, 2019. As Superintendent, he commanded more than 5,000 troopers, investigators and civilian support staff.

The Delaware County Chamber of Commerce & other organizations have teamed up for the annual Toys for Tots campaign throughout the county, Chamber President Ray Pucci explains:

(Ray Pucci 11-30-20)

Area drop off points include Delhi Telephone Company, Arc of Delaware County, Beaver Mountain Log Homes in Deposit, Mirabito Energy Products on Steiner Road in Sidney & the Sidney Airport.  This year’s Delaware County campaign runs through this Friday December 4th, when Chamber staff will pick up the toys from member businesses, more information is available at 746-1600.

A.M. NEWS MONDAY 11-30-20

The State Health Department tested over 158,000 people Saturday, with more than 6700 positive tests reported.  Patient Hospitalization is up to 3,372, the Number in an ICU bed is up to 667 & those on Ventilators are at 326.  There were 55 Deaths; the Total number of Deaths statewide is 26,690.

Otsego County Department of Health reported 27 cases reported Thursday & Friday & 22 cases reported over the weekend, past 2 days.  Otsego County is up to 1295 total confirmed cases with 97 active cases,  4 are hospitalized there have been 8 deaths,  764 cases are linked to SUNY Oneonta & 71 confirmed cases linked to Hartwick College

Delaware County Public Health reported 9 new cases of COVID 19 Saturday & 3 new cases on Sunday.  62 cases were active, there were 5 people hospitalized & 240 quarantined.  They report 358 total cases with 9 deaths & 287 recoveries.

Broome County Sheriff’s Office Patrol Division responded Thursday to the report of a 1-car roll-over accident on Oquaga Lake Road in the Town of Sanford.  Upon arrival to the scene, Patrols found a 2001 Nissan Xterra SUV on its side down a 40 foot embankment. The driver and sole occupant of the vehicle was partially ejected from the vehicle and did not survive the accident. The investigation is still on-going, and it is unknown why the vehicle left the roadway. The driver was identified as 42 year old Brian Ellis of Hancock.

P.M. NEWS FRIDAY 11-27-20

Chenango County Public Health reported that they had 76 Active Cases of COVID 19 to report today. They have 402 Quarantines, 6 people are hospitalized, and they have had 605 Total Cases with 503 Total Recoveries

Hartwick College reported two new cases of COVID-19 have been detected. There are five active cases on campus; the total number of cases detected on campus since August 1, 2020 is 73.

When The Vote Count Stopped in the 22nd Congressional district stopped Tuesday, incumbent Democrat Anthony Brindisi had a lead of about 1 dozen votes over Republic Claudia Tenney.  On Tuesday, State Supreme Court Justice Scott DelConte issued an injunction on any new vote totals until Monday November 30, even though the State Board of Elections had set a deadline of November 28 for county boards of elections to certify their vote totals.

Catholic Charities of Delaware Otsego & Schoharie Counties is selling paper “Bricks” at their Sidney office for their “Keeping Our Communities Warm 1 Brick at a Time” fundraiser, Penny McKnight of Catholic Charities explains:

(Penny McKnight 11-9-20)

More information about the program is available at 604-4071 or stopping at the Sidney office in the Civic Center at 21 Liberty Street.

Attorney General Letitia James today released the annual "Pennies for Charity: Fundraising by Professional Fundraisers" report, which found that nearly 1/3rd of charitable donations ended up in the pockets of professional fundraisers.  People can report suspicious organizations by contacting the Attorney General's Charities Bureau by email to bureau@ag.ny.gov or (212) 416-8401.  More information about the Attorney General's Charities Bureau and organizations regulated by the Bureau may be found at charitiesnys.com.

A.M. NEWS FRIDAY 11-27-20

The State Health Department tested over 217,000 New Yorkers Wednesday, with over 6900 positive tests.  Patient Hospitalization increased to 3, 056,  the number of patients in ICU beds is up to 628 & the Number on Ventilators is up to 286, there were 67 deaths from the virus, the Total number of Deaths is 26,549.  The state has conducted 18.7 million tests since March.

Delaware County Public Health reported 11 new cases of COVID 19 Wednesday & 4 more on Thursday, bringing their total to 339 since March.  They reported 56 active cases, 4 are hospitalized, 230 are in quarantine, and there have been 274 recoveries & 9 deaths.

Otsego County Department of Health reported 13 new COVID 19 cases Wednesday, they have had 1249 total confirmed cases, 113 active cases, 6 are hospitalized, there have been 8 deaths, and 764 cases are linked to SUNY Oneonta & 73 cases are linked to Hartwick College.

P.M. NEWS WEDNESDAY 11-25-20

State health department tested over 173,000 New Yorkers Tuesday, with 6265 testing positive, or 3.6% of all tested.  41 died from the virus Tuesday, the state death toll is 26,482 & 2982 are hospitalized.

Chenango County Public Health continues to see smaller increases in COVID 19 cases; they reported 72 Active Cases, 5 hospitalizations & 410 Quarantines.  Chenango County reported 20 more cases since Monday, they have had 583 Confirmed Cases since March, with 503 Recoveries & over 43,400 Tests have been performed.

Broome County Health Department reported 85 more cases of COVID 19 today; they have had a total of 4937 cases.  They report 116 deaths, 4202 recoveries & about 2900 are being monitored by the department.

Rockefeller the Owl was released back into the wild early this morning.  The owl made the trip from West Oneonta to New York City on the tree that will be the official Rockefeller Center Christmas tree this year, the owl was found by workers & was turned over to the Ravensbeard Wildlife Center in Saugerties, it is expected to acclimate itself to the local Owl Population.

The Norwich City School District Board of Education announced that Scott Ryan will be the next Superintendent of the District; Ryan is expected to take over for Interim Superintendent Diana Bowers in January.

Oswego State Supreme Court Justice Scott DelConte has ordered an injunction stopping the review of ballots in the 22nd Congressional District race between Anthony Brindisi & Claudia Tenney.  Judge DelConte stated that any new motions need to be filed by the campaigns’ attorneys by 5:00 p.m. Monday, November 30th; however, the State Board of Elections set a deadline of November 28th for county boards of elections to certify and transmit their election returns to the state.  Tenney was leading Brindisi by about 200 votes when the counting of absentee ballots was stopped.

A.M. NEWS WEDNESDAY 11-25-20

Otsego County Department of Health reported 21 new COVID 19 Cases reported Tuesday, 42 recent cases are linked to the Copper Fox in Oneonta, the department also reports a Potential exposure to COVID at the Red Jug Pub on Friday November 20th, patrons at that time should monitor for symptoms until December 4th.  Currently, Otsego County has had 1236 total confirmed cases, with 115 active cases, 6 hospitalized; there have been 8 deaths since March.  764 cases are linked to SUNY Oneonta & 71 confirmed cases linked to Hartwick College

Oneonta City School District announced that they have learned of a 5th staff member COVID 19 positive case & 1 confirmed case in a student. All District schools will go fully remote until Tuesday, January 19th & then return to hybrid instruction on January 19th.  81 students are in quarantine & 27 staff members are also in quarantine.   Meal distribution will continue to take place at the designated meal distribution points on Wednesdays.

Delaware County Public Health announced that they had 9 more cases of COVID 19 Tuesday, with 5 hospitalizations, 49 active cases & 222 in quarantine.  Delaware County has had 324 total cases of COVID 19, with 266 recoveries & 9 deaths.

The Sidney Central School District has been notified that 3 members of the District have tested positive for COVID-19. The Department of Health Services is conducting and completing the contact tracing. The Health Department will be contacting people impacted by a potential exposure. There will be no change to the instructional model at this time. The district is working in collaboration with local health departments to make sure all necessary procedures are followed.

The State Department of Labor released preliminary local area unemployment rates for October, the State’s seasonally adjusted unemployment rate decreased from 9.7% to 9.6%. Locally, Chenango County had 5% unemployment, Delaware County had 5.2% and Otsego County had 5.6% in October.

State Senator Jen Metzger of the 42nd Senate District, conceded the race to Republican Michael Martucci Tuesday.  There were 30,000 absentee ballots that needed to be counted in that district; the results confirmed Martucci's Election Day lead in the race.

The Delaware County Board of Supervisors adopted the county budget at their meeting Tuesday, several department heads received pay raises.  The budget has a property tax levy increase of about 1.7%

P.M. NEWS TUESDAY 11-24-20

17 year old Alexander Borgreen of Oneonta pleaded guilty to 1st degree Burglary, for his role in the October 10th 2019 murder of Kenneth Robinson at his home in Worcester.  Borgreen is accused of going to Robinson's house to steal Money & drugs, Dylan Robinson is accused of fatally shooting his father, and the house was set on fire.  Borgreen faces sentencing at a later date, Nicolas Meridy pleaded guilty to 2nd-degree murder earlier this year for his role in the crime, and he was sentenced to 22 years to life in prison.

The New York State Association of Counties applauds Governor Cuomo for signing legislation to end the incineration of firefighting foam that contains toxic PFA chemicals.  Since the 1970s, PFA's have been used in firefighting foams because of their ability to produce fast-spreading foam. However, the “forever chemicals” accumulate in the body and the environment and have been linked to serious health effects, including birth defects, delayed development, liver and immune system damage, and cancer.

Chenango County Public Health reported that they had 58 Active Cases of COVID 19, they have 399 Active Quarantines, and 5 are hospitalized.  Chenango County has had 578 confirmed cases since March, with 495 recoveries and 10 deaths.

The Broome County Health Department had 105 more COVID 19 cases Monday bringing their total to 4849.  They reported 2 more deaths, their total is now 116, they have had over 4100 recoveries & they are monitoring over 4400 people.

Governor Cuomo held a COVID 19 briefing on Long Island this afternoon, he said that is people do not mask up & get together in large gatherings, the rate of increase of the infections from COVID 19 could go up by 20%, he also commented that most of the executive orders he has signed since the pandemic started are not really "Enforceable" and that they have only worked because people took their health seriously:

(Cuomo 11-24-20)

The state Health Department reported that over 164,000 tests were conducted Monday with 4881 positive outcomes, the number of people hospitalized is up to 2856, and there were 47 deaths from the virus Monday.

A.M. NEWS TUESDAY 11-24-20

Otsego County Department of Health announced that they had 30 new cases of COVID 19 Monday, they have had a total of 1215 cases, with 109 active cases, 5 are hospitalized, there have been 8 deaths, and 764 cases are linked to SUNY Oneonta & 71 confirmed cases in Hartwick College students.

Delaware County Public Health announced that they had another 7 new cases of COVID 19 Monday.  They have 46 active cases, 4 are hospitalized, and 212 are quarantined.  The total for Delaware County is now 315 since March, with 260 recoveries & 9 deaths.

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 FRIDAY 11-20-20

The Sidney Police Department investigated 2 incidents of a scheme where a forged postal money order had been used or attempted to be used at the Sidney Federal Credit Union in Sidney. The investigation revealed that the Sidney cases were similar to cases in other jurisdictions. Sidney Police teamed up with Police in Delhi, Walton and Bainbridge, they arrested 22 year old Daron Bartholomew of Brooklyn for Grand larceny & Scheming to defraud, & 21 year old Anthony Someone of Merrick for Possession of a forged instrument & Attempted Scheming to defraud, both were arraigned in Village of Sidney Court and were released & will return to court at a later date.

Broome County Health Department reported another 81 positive COVID 19 Friday, they have had a total of 4565 cases, they reported another death, they are up to 113 deaths, they’ve had 3881 recoveries & over 4000 are being monitored.

Chenango County Public Health is up to 531 COVID 19 cases since March, they have 57 Active Cases, 4 Hospitalizations, & 411 Active Quarantines.  There have been 465 Total Recoveries, 10 deaths and over 42,000 Tests have been performed.

Hartwick College reported 1 new case of COVID-19, there is 2 active cases on campus; the total number of cases detected since August is 68.  After today, Hartwick students will be completing the rest of the semester remotely, as planned.

The Helio Health Center announced 50 new stabilization and rehabilitation beds in Binghamton, in the fight against the ongoing opioid crisis.  The $13 million investment will add 50 more beds to the current 50 bed facility on Glenwood Road.

A.M. NEWS FRIDAY 11-20-20

Otsego County Sheriff's office arrested 23 year old George Wang of Lawrence Kansas for Attempted Murder, Vehicular Assault, DWI & Operating a vehicle while impaired by drugs, after intentionally striking a pedestrian with a motor vehicle in the Town of Hartwick Wednesday afternoon.  Wang allegedly drove off the roadway and shoulder into a grassy area in front of TOPS Plaza, where he struck a pedestrian, Witnesses aided the victim, Wang fled at a high rate of speed south on State Route 28.  State Police stopped Wang at State Route 28 and the I-88 interchange; he was arraigned & is being held at the Otsego County Jail on $300,000 bond.  The victim is listed as in stable condition and is being treated for multiple injuries sustained during the incident.

Otsego County Health Department had 14 new COVID 19 cases reported Thursday & they continue to investigate a cluster of cases linked to the Copper Fox. Otsego County had had 1142 total confirmed cases, 75 active cases with 1 hospitalized.  There have been 8 deaths, 762 cases linked to SUNY Oneonta & 67 confirmed cases in Hartwick College students

Delaware County Public Health had 7 new COVID 19 cases on Thursday, with 5 hospitalized, 55 active cases, & 187 people are quarantined.  They are up to 296 total cases, with 232 recoveries & 9 deaths.

Delaware County Sheriff’s Deputies responded to County Highway 14 in the hamlet of Treadwell Wednesday to investigate a report of a female slumped over in the driver’s seat and causing a traffic obstruction.  60-year-old Lora Leitenberger of Treadwell is accused of operating a motor vehicle in an intoxicated condition, she was charged with the felony DWI, for having 2 prior DWI convictions within the previous 10-years.  Leitenberger was also issued traffic summonses for parking on pavement & open container; she faces court action at a later date.

4 Towns Forward is an effort from Sidney, Unadilla, Bainbridge & Afton & they are working together for a Small Business Saturday event for the holidays tomorrow, Teri Schunk of the Sidney Chamber comments about their plans:

(Teri Schunk 11-20-20)

June White told WCDO News about the Bainbridge Chamber's event with many vendors spread out over several sites tomorrow:

(June White 11-20-20)

Also, 6zero7 Advertising & Events of Afton will hold their 2nd Locally Made Holiday Shop event at the Hitching Post on Route 7 in Port Crane Saturday from 9:00 to 2:00 and 4:00 to 8:00 PM.

The Helios Care Tree of Lights event will be a virtual event this year due to the ongoing pandemic, Helios Care Director of Development Alicia Fish explains:

(Alicia Fish 11-20-20)

More information about the Tree of Lights event this weekend is available by calling Helios Care at 432-6773.

Delaware County Sheriff Deputies responded November 8th to the Town of Davenport where 65-year-old Jack Burgess of Davenport allegedly engaged in communications and the exchange of images with a child, in violation of an order of protection issued for that child.  On Tuesday November 10th, Deputies located, arrested and charged Burgess with criminal contempt of court and endangering the welfare of a child, Burgess is directed to appear in the Town of Davenport Court on a later date.

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.

After the absentee ballots were counted, 19th District Congressman Antonio Delgado has won re-election over Republican Kyle Van De Water.  In the 22nd Congressional District, Republican Claudia Tenney's lead has shrunk to about 2,000 votes over incumbent Democrat Anthony Brindisi; more than 68,000 absentee ballots were requested in the 22nd district this year.

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 WEDNESDAY 11-18-20

Governor Cuomo announced that the state continues to see an increase in COVID 19 positive test rates, hospitalizations, patients in ICU beds & on ventilators.  There were 154,434 tests conducted yesterday, with over 5294 positive tests, which was about 3.4% of all tested.  There were 35 deaths from COVID Tuesday, 2202 are hospitalized, 433 are in an ICU unit & 192 are on Ventilators.

Governor Cuomo announced today that the southern portions of Broome County are no longer in a "Yellow Zone" as their rate of positivity in COVID tests has dropped to the state average, and yellow zone restrictions that have been a place for weeks will be dropped.  Broome County Health Department announced that they had 79 more positive tests for the virus, they have had 112 deaths, almost 3800 recoveries and they are monitoring over 3800 people.

Chenango County Public Health announced that they were up to 512 total cases of COVID 19 so far, they have 48 Active Cases, 4 people are hospitalized, and 326 are quarantined.  There have been 441 Recoveries, 10 deaths, & fewer than 41,500 tests have been performed.

Delaware Valley Humane Society is teaming up with the Tulip & The Rose Restaurant in Franklin for a Vegan Meal at 2 time slots this Friday & Saturday. Society Director Erin Insinga said that they are selling $5 Tickets for specific time slots to be able to have Social Distancing at the restaurant, and they will get a portion of the proceeds from the prices of the meals:

(Erin Insinga 11-10-20)

More information about the fundraiser is available by calling the shelter at 563-7780 during normal business hours.

The 75-foot Norway spruce from West Oneonta is getting set up at Rockefeller Center in New York City. It will be illuminated on December 2nd, but there will be no public viewing of the tree lighting ceremony because of the pandemic. The tree lighting will instead be broadcast nationally on NBC.

Oneonta Mayor Gary Herzig announced that he & his wife Connie will voluntarily quarantine for 14 days, after Connie was possibly exposed to COVID-19 while substitute teaching at Cooperstown Elementary School.  A teacher at Cooperstown tested positive for the Virus, leading to remote learning for Elementary School students through the end of the month.  So far, Mayor Herzig & his wife have not experienced any symptoms of the virus, and are waiting for test results.

Norwich Theater Company has teamed with Chenango Arts Council to stage a 10 year retrospective in the Mariea Brown and Raymond Loft Galleries. The exhibit, “Norwich Theater Company’s 10th Anniversary Show” displays costumes, props, photos, posters and more from the theater company’s shows, as well as details about this year’s virtual season. The Show Will Go On until Friday, December 4th, Go to norwichtheatercompany.org or chenangoarts.org for more information.

A.M. NEWS WEDNESDAY 11-18-20

Delaware County Public Health had 10 new cases of COVID 19 Tuesday, with 8 hospitalizations, 195 in quarantine.  They have had 286 total cases. with 214 recoveries & 9 deaths.

Otsego County Department of Health had 6 cases reported today of COVID 19.  They report 1110 total confirmed cases, with 43 active cases, 1 hospitalized, 8 deaths, 756 cases linked to SUNY Oneonta & 67 confirmed cases in Hartwick College students

Voters in the Walton Central School District approved the 2020 Capital Project to repair to the district's buildings and grounds, including replacing aging roofs, a new parking lot, and flood mitigation at Townsend Elementary School, and address energy upgrades and increased security.  The final vote on the proposal was 256 in favor, and 55 against.

Oneonta Mayor Gary Herzig signed the new mask ordinance into law last night following a public meeting during the Common Council meeting.  The law requires masks be worn at all time in all public spaces downtown in Oneonta and when you cannot social distance. This includes retail, service businesses, organizations and in any public space when social distancing cannot be maintained.  The local law does not apply to private residences.

New York State Chief Judge Janet DiFiore announced that Due to the rise in coronavirus cases, the state is postponing scheduling new jury trials until further notice.  Any trials that are already in progress can continue virtually, but no new proceedings will begin, including Grand Juries.  Since September, there have been 47 cases outside of New York City since early September, and 12 in New York City this past month.

P.M. NEWS TUESDAY 11-17-20

SUNY Acting President Dennis Craig announced that the college's COVID Response Team with more than 50 college employees, students and parents shared its Draft Re-opening Plan for the Spring 2021 semester with staff & students & parents recently.  President Craig Told WCDO News of the timeline to bring back students on the spring:

(President Craig 11-17-20)

President Craig said that 2 Town halls are planned, 1 on Wednesday afternoon for faculty & staff, & another 1 Wednesday Evening for students & parents.  The full document is at suny.oneonta.edu/covid-19, the COVID Response Team is adding items into the draft plan by the December 10th deadline to SUNY.

Broome County Health Department reported another 61 positive COVID 19 tests Tuesday, giving the County 4,340, they have had 112 deaths, 3776 recoveries & 3900 are being monitored. The Broome County Health Department has learned that a person who was at Midway Lanes, in Vestal, on November 11th and 12th has tested positive for COVID-19, if you were at the location you should self-quarantine until November 26th or 27th respectively & contact a health care provider if symptoms occur.

Chenango County Public Health had 5 more positive cases of COVID 19 to report, today, they have 46 Active Cases with 3 hospitalizations, 277 Active Quarantines; they are up to 506 Total Cases.  They report 441 Recoveries, 10 deaths, and over 41,300 tests administered.

The Cooperstown Central School District learned Monday afternoon that a teacher in the Elementary Building has tested positive for COVID 19.  The district developed lists of all students and staff members who were in direct contact with this teacher last Thursday and Friday, and a small number of students will be required to quarantine for 14 days. Due to the number of staff members requiring 14 days of quarantine, the Elementary Building will be turning to emergency remote instruction until November 30th.   More information is available at cooperstowncs.org.

Governor Cuomo announced the launch of a new online training platform with nearly 4,000 online programs, to enable unemployed and underemployed New Yorkers affected the COVID-19 pandemic to learn new skills, earn certificates, and advance their careers at no cost.  New Yorkers can request a free account on the New York State Department of Labor website.

The Community Foundation for South Central New York has received $200,000 in grants from Chobani, to 4 central New York organizations helping organizations expand their economic opportunities and entrepreneurship in the region. Chobani has named four recipients: The Charlotte Valley Central School District, Clear Path for Veterans, Cornell Cooperative Extension of Chenango County & The Center for Agricultural Development and Entrepreneurship.

A.M. NEWS TUESDAY 11-17-20

The Walton Central School District was advised Monday that 1 person in the district has tested positive for the COVID-19 virus. The District is coordinating with the Delaware County Department of Health and they have indicated that due to the timing of the onset of symptoms and the last date of the individual being physically present in a district building or vehicle, there is no requirement of contact tracing at this time. As a result, the school operations will continue as normal.

Otsego County Department of Health reported 6 new cases of COVID 19 Monday.  The County is up to 1104 total confirmed cases, they have 47 active cases with 2 hospitalized, there have been 8 deaths, 756 cases are linked to SUNY Oneonta & 67 confirmed cases in Hartwick College students.

Delaware County Public Health is reporting 3 new cases of COVID-19 Monday. The known active cases in the County is now 59. To date there have been 276 confirmed positive cases of COVID-19, with 196 people now under mandatory quarantine,  49 people are isolated and receiving care at home and 10 people are isolated in the hospital, 9 people have died and 208 have fully recovered.

Binghamton Police Department responded Friday to a report of a loud party at 140 Front Street, officers discovered around 100 people inside, there was alcoholic beverages & some people under 21 years of age.  2 unidentified people were charged with violating the City's Social Host laws that were enacted earlier this year.

The Oneonta Common Council will hold their next meeting tonight at 7:00 PM through Zoom.  The Council recently approved an amended Mask Law, after a previous one was vetoed by Mayor Gary Herzig.  A public hearing will be held tonight on the bill; Mayor Herzig is expected to act on it after the hearing.