WCDO Radio News

P.M. NEWS THURSDAY 12-29-22

The State Health Department continues to see a high positivity rate for COVID 19 testing across the state. The most recent test period had over 3600 positive tests out of 38,200 tested, for an 8.66% rate. Patient hospitalization have surged back up to over 3800. with 403 ICU patients & 179 on ventilators, and 128 deaths reported at hospitals & nursing homes.

Schenevus Central School District Superintendent Theresa Carlin resigned during a special board of education meeting earlier this week. Carlin's resignation takes effect on Saturday, she has served as the Schenevus Superintendent since 2018.

Delaware County Chamber of Commerce is exploring the possibility of public transportation. A survey is currently available regarding what county residents have or need for transpiration, some County residents are using the GetThere mobility program, more information is available t For more information at gettherescny.org or 833-373-4040.

State Police are reminding state residents that if they get a fundraising call from someone claiming to be with the State Police, the call is a scam. State Police will never solicit funds by phone, email or social media, anyone who receives such a call should hang up.

A.M. NEWS Thursday 12-29-22

The Otsego County Office of Emergency Services announced that resources were deployed to assist Erie County recover from a historic series of storms. On Tuesday, Otsego County Special Operations Team members were activated to respond with equipment & personnel for a 72-hour deployment to assist with stranded residents or those in need of medical attention. On Wednesday, December 28, Otsego County Highway Department deployed 10 personnel with various pieces of equipment to assist with the clearing of roadways and impassable streets, they are expected to be working 12-hour periods each session into Monday

An American Red Cross Blood Drive is being held today at the A.O. Fox Tri-Town Campus, from 1:30 PM to 6:30 PM, in the Conference Room N-112. The Red Cross is experiencing a blood shortage due to the cancellation of blood drives and has issued an emergency request for all blood types. Appointments may be made at redcrossblood.org, or by calling 1-800-RedCross (1-800-733-2767).

The New York Textile Act goes into effect in the new year. The Act aims to accelerate the growth of the animal and plant fiber growing, processing, and textile manufacturing industry in New York, it includes expanding annual farm recognition awards, state procurement process training for small businesses, It goes into effect January 1.

The New York State Thruway re-opened to traffic yesterday in Western New York, as crews have cleared the roads after the recent 4 foot snowstorm. The City of Buffalo lifted it's travel ban today, as crews from all over the state are assisting with removing cars that were stuck.

P.M. NEWS WEDNESDAY 12-28-22

State Police were dispatched Christmas day at about 12:30 PM to assist the Oneonta City Fire Department with a fully engulfed single wide trailer at the Oneida Village Mobile Home Park on Oneida Street. Fire personnel located a deceased male in the residence. State Police Bureau of Criminal Investigation responded to the scene, the deceased man has been identified as 50 year old Aaron Blakeslee, who resided in the trailer. Oneonta Fire Department reported that 1 dog and 2 cats also died in the fire, there were no injuries to any firefighters. Investigators are working with the City of Oneonta Fire Department and State Fire Investigators to determine the cause of the fatal fire.

The State Department of Public Service announced it has expanded its investigation into NYSEG and sister company Rochester Gas & Electric, for potential mismanagement of their utilities’ billing systems and protocols. The Department’s Consumer Advocate will host a series of public forums in affected areas starting in January to hear consumer concerns first-hand, after over 4700 customers complained of sudden spikes in their electric bills of about 60% on average earlier this year. Customers t should contact the Department’s Office of Consumer Services to file a complaint at dps.ny.gov.

Delaware County Sheriff's Deputies arrested a Hamden man on charges stemming from a Menacing Complaint Tuesday. Deputies responded to a reported menacing complaint, Upon arrival Deputies interviewed 49-year-old Hayes Hathaway, deputies determined that Hathaway had pushed the victim from behind, displayed an axe while verbally threatening to cause harm to the victim and then terminated the victim’s electrical supply. Deputies charged Hathaway with 1 count of each of Menacing & Harassment, & was released & ordered to appear in Town of Hamden Court at a later date.

Governor Kathy Hochul signed a legislative package to crack down on pandemic fraud. The Legislation increases the award amounts given to individuals who report fraud related to a State of Emergency. Currently, private citizens can file civil lawsuits on behalf of the government to help recover defrauded money and may be rewarded a percentage of the money recovered. With this new law, whistleblowers may be eligible to receive additional money if the fraud was perpetrated during a state of emergency.

A.M. NEWS WEDNESDAY 12-28-22

Delaware County Emergency Services announced that crews from East Meredith, Pindars Corners, Stamford & Trout Creek Fire Departments were deployed to Erie County to assist with the disaster in Western New York. All were equipped with UTV's & brought necessary supplies for a 72 hour deployment.

The State Department of Health urges New Yorkers ages 6 months and older to get a flu shot, with the Department’s latest report showing an additional pediatric death, bringing the total to 5 so far this season. The Department's new flu surveillance report shows a total of 217,094 positive influenza cases across all 62 counties in New York have been reported to date. Outside of New York City, week-over-week lab-confirmed flu cases are up 4 percent to 36,047, the report is available at nyshc.health.ny.gov.

Cortland County Sheriff’s Officers responded to the Town of Homer for a motor vehicle accident, the driver, 20 year old Lucas Walley of Walton is accused of being intoxicated & driving off of the road. Walley was charged with Driving with .08 of 1% or More of Alcohol, Driving While Intoxicated, Driving Across Hazard Markings, he was processed and released on his own recognizance with appearance tickets returnable to the Town of Homer Court.

P.M. NEWS WEDNESDAY 11-30-22

Norwich Police & State Police responded Saturday evening to the report of a victim of an assault arriving at a downtown business asking for help. Police arrested 32 year old Jeffrey Sabines of Oxford, for 1st degree assault & criminal possession of a weapon, 44 year old Jason Lowe of Norwich, for 3 counts of criminal possession of a controlled substance, and 4th degree conspiracy, 45 year old Daniel McCoy of Norwich, for conspiracy, and 37 year old Meredith Conkey of Norwich for obstruction of governmental administration & criminal possession of a controlled substance. Sabines was sent to the Chenango County Correctional facility without bail for violating his parole and for being a repeat offender, Lowe, McCoy, and Conkey were ticketed and released & will appear in Norwich City Court at a later date.

Delaware County Sheriff's Deputies arrested 32 year old Kody MacDonald with Criminal Contempt, for allegedly violating an order of protection from Delaware County Family Court. MacDonald is accused of contacting protected parties in the town of Colchester last week, he was released on an appearance ticket and is scheduled to appear in the Town of Colchester Court at a later date.

The State Department of Health & the CDC recommend individuals get vaccinated and stay up to date with all recommend doses, as positivity rates for COVID 19 remain around 7 to 12%. Booster doses are free and available statewide, more information is available through your healthcare provider, your child’s healthcare provider, or go to cdc.gov to find out when you can get a booster.

The annual Holiday Open House returns from 10 am. to 4 pm. on Sunday December 4th at the Chenango County Historical Society at 45 Rexford Street in Norwich. The annual Holiday Open House will feature the “Alice’s Wonderlands: The Art of Alice Hudson” exhibit and the “Parade of Trees”.

The Mid-York Concert Band will present a Holiday Concert Sunday December 11th at the Norwich high School Auditorium at 2:00 PM. The 40 Piece ensemble will play a number of Christmas pieces, The concert is free with a request for free-will offerings, more information is available at 607-263-2618.

Oneonta officials announced that Traffic on East Street on Graduate Drive near the 'S' curve, will be reduced to one lane tonight. The Oneonta Department of Public Works will be installing a water valve at 130 East Street on Graduate Drive, starting at 8:00 PM until the work is completed.

A.M. NEWS WEDNESDAY 11-30-22

Hospice & Palliative Care of Chenango County is holding their annual Ornament sale through the end of the week, Spokesperson Sarah Green explains:

(Sarah Green 11-30-22)

Green said that 3 styles of ornaments are available this year, more information is available at hospicechenango.org or by calling 607-334-3556.

P.M. NEWS MONDAY 11-21-22

Delaware County Sheriff’s Deputies investigated a fatal UTV accident on Carcass Brook Road in the Town of Tompkins. 45-year-old William Youhas of New Jersey was operating a side-by-side Utility Vehicle When he lost control & the vehicle overturned, Youhas was partially ejected & was pinned underneath, 1st responders were not successful and Youhas was pronounced deceased at the scene.

19 year old Payton Gendron of Conklin has had his court date adjourned, due to the snow storm that dumped about 6 feet of snow on the Buffalo area since Thursday. Gendron was due in Erie County Court today to to answer to a series of charges for the fatal shooting for 10 people and the injuring of 3 others, during an attack on a Supermarket in a black neighborhood in May. Gendron is being held pending court action in for local and federal courts in the near future.

Delaware County Sheriff's deputies arrested 24 year old Henry Kaufmann of Delhi following an investigation into a 1 vehicle accident Friday night on State Highway 10 in Delhi. Deputies responded to the accident site, where the driver left the scene, Kaufmann was later located & he was charged with operating a motor vehicle while intoxicated, leaving the scene of a motor vehicle accident, moving from lane unsafely, speed not reasonable and prudent, operating with no seat belt, and open container. Kaufmann was released on an appearance ticket and was scheduled to appear before the Town of Delhi Court at a later date.

Open Enrollment is underway for the New York State of Health 2023 cycle. New Yorkers looking to renew, change their insurance or enroll for the 1st time can go to nystateofhelth.ny.gov or call 1-855-355-5777.

State Police and local law enforcement agencies will participate in a special traffic safety initiative this Thanksgiving weekend, from Wednesday, through Monday. Construction-Related Lane Closures Limited will be limited from Wednesday Morning to Monday morning to ease the increased holiday traffic, except in the case of emergencies.

On Saturday, staff and youth from the Tobacco Free Zone/Reality Check program of Chenango County commemorated this year’s Great American Smokeout by conducting a cigarette Butt cleanup in the East & West Parks in the City of Norwich. Tobacco Free Zone coordinator Brad Morrison explains:

(Brad Morrison 11-21-22)

The Tobacco Free Zone program of Chenango County can assist municipalities, employers and other groups to transition their property to tobacco-free spaces. More information is available at TFreeZone.net.

A.M. NEWS MONDAY 11-21-22

The State Department of Education is now requiring all State schools to drop Native American Imagery or names as their mascots. Districts will have until the end of this school year to comply with the directive or risk the loss of funding and even school officers such as the superintendent.

Morris Central School District residents will vote on a $14.5 million capital project, which includes replacing the bus garage, roofs on the main building, repaving the parking lot and installing LED energy efficient lights and replacing flooring as necessary, installing more cameras, replacing fire doors and updating the heating of the school. 86% of the project will come from state aid and the district will use $1 million in its capital reserves fund, a public forum will be held at 5:30 PM on December 8th in the school's library. The vote will be December 13th at the school's main entrance.

Sidney Federal Credit Union announced a location for their flagship branch in the Syracuse market, on Brewerton Road in front of the Cicero Walmart Supercenter. The new branch will feature the same concierge-style concept that SFCU established in its Amsterdam location, with personal teller pods and video-enabled iTMs that allow members to connect virtually with a representative while conducting transactions. Sfcu Membership is over 64,000 with $775 million in assets.

P.M. NEWS THURSDAY 11-17-22

The Sidney Chamber Of Commerce announced that the annual Jolly Holly Days parade is returning this year, Chamber President Teri Schunk explains:

(Teri Schunk 11-17-22)

More information is available at the Sidney Chamber of Commerce Facebook Page.

The State Department of Labor announced that the number of private sector jobs in the State increased by 3,700 to 8,063,000 in October. The State's unemployment rate increased .1% to 4.4% in October. The number of private sector jobs is back up to where it was prior to the start of the pandemic in March 2020.

The Tri-County Seniors is partnering with Delaware Opportunities to collect gift items for senior citizens in need this holiday season. The collections began this week & will run through Monday, November 28, with collection boxes at the Tri-County Senior Center in the Sidney Civic Center, Conklin Fashions in Bainbridge, Sidney Memorial Public Library and Trackside Dining in Sidney, and Jess F. Howes Building Supplies in Sidney Center. Suggested items to donate include calendars, stamps, scarves, gloves, books, crosswords, socks, toiletries, flashlights, small blankets, and gift cards, the items will be distributed to seniors through the Delaware Opportunities home meal delivery program.

A.M. NEWS THURSDAY 11-17-22

The Chenango County Health Department is holding a flu shot clinic tomorrow at the Chenango County Office Building in Norwich, for those who are uninsured or under-insured, Health Department spokesman Isaiah Sutton comments:

(Isaiah Sutton 11-17-22)

Sutton said that people can still register through the Chenango County Health Department number at 607-337-1660, or through their website.

The Greater Oneonta Historical Society's final installment of History After Hours will be Today, from 5:00 TO 7:00 pm, regarding the city's Holiday History. The event is free and open to the public. More information is available at oneontahistory.org or by calling (607) 432-0960.

Delaware County Sheriff's Deputies arrested a Walton resident for driving while intoxicated after Deputies observed a vehicle traveling at around 80 miles per hour on State Hwy 206 in the Town of Walton. 22 year old Dakota Nichols of Walton was charged with DWI, driving with a .08% or more of alcohol, & Speeding, Nichols faces court action at a later date.

P.M. NEWS Thursday 11-10-22

Oneonta Police Department & Fire Department responded early this morning at about 6:50 AM, to the report of an unresponsive male lying near a bicycle in Huntington Park in the City of Oneonta. The 50-year-old male was found deceased, video surveillance revealed a bicycle accident had occurred. The cause of death is unknown at this time pending a medical examination, The investigation is ongoing, the name of the deceased will not be released until proper family notifications can be made. Anyone with additional information on this investigation is asked to contact the Oneonta Police Department Detectives Division at (607) 432-1111.

Chenango County Health Department reported that multiple cases of rabies have been identified within the local wildlife population inside Norwich City limits. Any wild animal acting strangely and in close proximity to residential areas should be considered dangerous. If city residents supect that their pet has interactions with any rabid animal, they should not handle the pet, the pet should be isolated, more information is available at the Chenango County Health Department at (607) 337-1660.

Hospice of Chenango County will be hosting an event for Veteran's Friday morning outside their Norwich offices on Court street, Spokesperson Sarah Green explains:

(Sarah Greene 11-11-22)

The event is open to the public, the event is co-sponsored by the Norwich American Legion Post 189 & The Norwich VFW Post 2782.

Firefighters responded to a fire at 164 Dumas Hill Road in the town of Fenton last night. Firefighters from Port Crane, Chenango Bridge and Five Mile Point responded, the building was completely destroyed, occupants escaped without injury, The cause of the fire is under investigation.

The Broome County Sheriff’s Deputies & local 1st responders were called to State Route 235 in Harpursville Wednesday night for the report of a car down an embankment with driver entrapment. The unidentified driver was extricated & taken to an area hospital, no other vehicles were involved & the cause off the accident is under investigation.

A.M. NEWS Thursday 11-10-22

The Bainbridge Guilford Central School District will host a free in-person breakfast for Veterans this Morning at the Greenlawn Elementary School in Bainbridge, BG Superintendent Tim Ryan comments:

(Tim Ryan 11-4-22)

The Breakfast will start at at 9:00 AM Today.

Delaware County Sheriff's Deputies arrested 19 year old Eyan Laboy of Chester after an investigation of an Accident on November 1st to Holmes Hollow Road in the Town of Delhi. Deputies charged Laboy with DWI & failure to keep right, he was ordered to appear in the Town of Delhi Court at a later date.

46 year old Jamie Crowley of Windsor was found guilty by a jury of Criminal Possession of a Weapon, 2 counts of Menacing in Broome County Court, on July 3, 2021, Broome County Sheriff’s deputies responded to Crowley’s home after reports of Crowley firing a gun at a woman’s car who turned around in his driveway, and at responding deputies, who returned fire, Crowley sustained non-life threatening injuries. Crowley was sent back to the Broome County Jail following the guilty verdict.

The Chenango County Health Department announced that a flu shot clinic will be held Friday November 18th at the Chenango County Office Building in Norwich. The Flu Clinic is free for those 10 years of age & older who have no or limited coverage insurance, per-registration is requested at 337-1660.

The Otsego County Solid Waste Department and the Otsego County Conservation Association are teaming up once again to promote the Otsego County Schools Plastic Film Recycling Challenge. The challenge promotes recycling of film plastics and is open to all public and private k-12 school buildings located in Otsego County. The challenge kicks off on America Recycles Day, November 15, and runs through April 14, 2023.

Governor Kathy Hochul today announced that since early January, when mobile sports wagering became available in New York, the State has collected $542 million in taxes through the week ending October 30, far surpassing every other state in the nation. An additional $200 million in licensing fees has also been collected, generating a total of more than $740 million in revenue, most of it to be used for education.

DELAWARE COUNTY

County Court Judge: John Hubbard (R)

Town of Sidney Board Seat: Paul Muratore (R)

Proposition 1: Clean Air/ Clean Water Act passed.

A.M. NEWS WEDNESDAY 11-9-22

State Police announced that the body of Frederick Mayock of Springfield Massachusetts was found in Canadarago Lake in Otsego County yesterday. Mayock was reported missing after he went kayaking October 22nd.

Delaware County Sheriff's office arrested 41 year old Billie Jo Browning of Unadilla, after Deputies responded on October 28th, to a 2-car property damage motor vehicle accident on State Highway 28 in the Town of Meredith. Deputies arrested Browning for Aggravated Unlicensed Operation, she will appear in the Town of Meredith court at a later date.

The Chenango County Historical Society announced that they are celebrating the 100th anniversary of The Raymond Corporation, at their annual Membership dinner at 5:00 PM tonight at Raymond in Greene. The event combines the annual Society membership meeting with an exclusive viewing of The Raymond Corporation’s recently unveiled centennial exhibit.

P.M. NEWS THURSDAY 10-13-22

The U.S. Department of Agriculture is awarding more than $13 million in grants across rural New York state, Bassett Hospital will be receiving $229,071 in funding. Basset Officials announced that the money will be used for projects such as implementing tele-health and nutrition assistance programs, increase staffing to administer COVID-19 vaccines and testing, to build or renovate facilities, and purchase medical supplies.

The Chenango County Farm Bureau Annual Meeting date is set for October 26, 2022. The meeting will be held at Fred’s Inn, Rte. 12, Norwich, NY. Cocktails at 6:30pm (networking) Dinner at 7:00pm.

The Greater Oneonta Historical Society's 16th Annual Live Benefit Auction will be held on Friday, October 28 at the Quality Inn on Route 23 at 5:30 pm. The Greater Oneonta Historical Society will be offering an online auction again this year, starting 1 week before the live auction, on Friday, October 21, at 5:00 pm through 7:00 pm on Thursday, October 27. Offerings can be viewed at 32Auctions.com, more information is available at oneontahistory.org, or at 607-432-0960, or email at info@oneontahistory.org.

The Binghamton Rumble Ponies are hosting the first ever "Rock'n'Rumble", a special Binghamton University student and faculty concert at Mirabito Stadium on Friday, from 4:30 pm. to 8:30 pm. General admission tickets are on sale for only $2.50 in advance when purchased at the box office, $4 when purchased in advance online, and $5 the day of the show. Tickets can be purchased online at BINGRP.com, by phone at 607-722-3866, or at the Visions Federal Credit Union Box Office. In case of inclement weather, the rain date is Saturday October 15th at 2:00 pm.

Commerce Chenango will host an open house next Wednesday as part of "Support Your Local Chamber Of Commerce Day, Commerce Chenango Director of Communications & Tourism Audrey Robinson comments:

(Audrey Robinson 10-13-22)

Robinson said that the event is also open to the public Next Wednesday at their South Broad Street Norwich location, beginning at 4:00 PM.

A.M. NEWS Thursday 10-13-22

Delaware County Sheriff's Office arrested 59 year old David Spry of South Kortright for DWI & moving from a lane unsafely, after an investigation of a 1 car motor vehicle accident in the Town of Stamford October 1st. Deputies observed a vehicle that appeared to have gone off of the roadway and sustained damage, they made contact with Spry, who appeared to be under the influence of alcohol. Spry was transported to O’Connor Hospital for treatment of injuries sustained in the motor vehicle accident, he was released on appearance tickets and will appear at the Town of Stamford Court at a later date.

State Police & Emergency Personnel responded to the report of an Amazon Delivery Truck on fire outside of Cooperstown yesterday. The driver was not injured, the incident occurred on Bedbug Hill Road in the town of Otsego, the cause of the truck fire is under investigation.

A Red Cross Blood Drive will be held in Franklin today from 12:30 to 5:30 PM at the Franklin Fire Department. Appointments can be sceduled with the Red Cross Blood Donor App, visiting RedCrossBlood.org or by calling 1-800-RED CROSS.

P.M. NEWS WEDNESDAY 10-12-22

30 year old Shelby Ortiz of the town of Maryland, pleaded guilty to distributing child pornography in federal court. Ortiz admitted to having sexual contact with a 7-month-old boy and sending it to someone else electronically. Ortiz is scheduled to be sentenced in February & could face 10 to 20 years in prison if convicted. .

The Broome County Sheriff’s Office is investigating a fentanyl overdose that occurred at the jail last Friday. The unidentified 34-year-old inmate was found by a correctional officer, 1st aid was administered, the inmate was taken to Wilson Regional Medical Center for further medical attention. The investigation into the incident is continuing.

The Otsego County Sheriff's Office arrested 26 year old Kynisha Atkinson of Oneonta following a recent traffic stop in the Town of Oneonta. Atkinson was found to be operating a motor vehicle on a public highway with a suspended registration on September 25th, she will appear in Town of Oneonta court at a later date.

The Binghamton Black Bears Hockey Team of the Federal Prospects Hockey League, will begin their new season this Friday Night at the Visions Veterans Memorial Arena in Binghamton, new team announcer Brooks Hill told WCDO News that the team looks poised to return to the playoffs this year:

(Brooks Hill 10-12-22)

Hill said that tickets are available on their website: binghamtonblackbears.com/tickets, or by calling 607-722-7367.

Governor Kathy Hochul today announced more than $246 million from FEMA to support counter-terrorism and emergency preparedness efforts across New York. The New York State Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services manages the programs with local stakeholders, locally Chenango & Otsego Counties will receive over $93,000, Delaware County over $85,000 and Broome County over $311,000.

A.M. NEWS Wednesday 10-12-22

Delaware County Sheriff’s Office arrested 29-year-old Osman Mendoza-Garcia of Scranton, Pennsylvania, on October 1st, after Deputies responded to a 2-car accident on State Highway 10. The investigation found that Mendoza-Garcia was following another north bound vehicle that was attempting to make a turn, he was unable to stop. Mendoza-Garcia was driving with a suspended driver’s license, he was charged with Aggravated Unlicensed Operation and Following too Closely, he was released with appearance tickets made returnable to the Town of Tompkins Court at a later date.

State Police arrested 31year old Jesse Sklenarik of Oneonta, for Attempted Petty Larceny, after a trooper was dispatched to a report of a larceny in progress at Certified Auto. When the trooper arrived, an employee was holding down Sklenarik after he allegedly attempted to cut the catalytic converter off a vehicle on their property. Sklenarik was released on an appearance ticket to the Oneonta Town Court on October 18th.

The Northeast Classic Car Museum will have their annual drawing today, for someone to win a 1965 Ford Mustang Convertible, valued at about $30,000. Tickets have been sold for several months, the event is one of the key fundraisers for the museum, last year's winner was Rick Hulse of Cooperstown.

The New Bivalent COVID-19 BOOSTER Vaccines are available to anyone 12 and older, to provide increased protection against currently circulating variants. A booster clinic is being hosted by the Chenango County Health Department today at the Broad Street Methodist Church in Norwich, from 12:00 to 3:00 pm, at the Unadilla Valley School on October 27th, and Afton School on November 3rd. Pre-registration is required on the County website, more information is available at 607-337-1660.

P.M. NEWS WEDNESDAY 10-5-22

The Hartwick College Women's Field Hockey Team has been conducting fundraising efforts for the Trinity O'Connor Foundation, named after 6 year old Trinity O'Connor of Sidney who died earlier this year after a battle with cancer. Foundation Spokesperson Kim Ayres told WCDO News that their efforts will culminate with their game today:

(Kim Ayres 10-5-22)

Ayres said that money raised for the foundation will go to families of children battling cancer, more information is available at trinityoconnorfoundation.org, or at their Facebook Page.

The Broome County District Attorney’s Office announced that 33 year old Kevin Cochrane was sentenced to 3 years in prison followed by 6 years of post-release supervision, for attempted use of a child less than 17 years of age in a sexual performance. Cochrane was taken to the Broome County Jail after sentencing in Broome County Court, he will be transferred over to a state correctional facility.

The New York State Department of Health proposed regulations for 23 additional emerging contaminants in drinking water in the State Register today, which then starts a 60-day public review and comment period. The proposed regulations would set new drinking water standards, or maximum contaminant levels, for 4 additional hazardous chemicals, requiring public water systems to reduce levels under the requirements. The proposed rules would also require testing, reporting, and public notification for 19 additional PFAS compounds. The proposed regulations appear at dos.ny.gov/state-register, the public will until December 5th to review and comment

The Otsego County Health Department will hold a rabies vaccination clinic for Dogs, Cats & Ferrets tonight in Otego. The clinic will run from 6:00 to 8:00 PM at the Otego Fire Department, more information is available at 547-4230.

A.M. NEWS Wednesday 10-5-22

In the month of September, members State Police from Troop "C" removed 53 impaired drivers off the roadways. 2 of those impaired drivers also had a child under the age of 15 in the vehicle with them, 15 of those drivers were more than double the legal limit, 12 of those drivers were under the influence of drugs, 3 of those drivers were previously convicted of DWI within the last 10 years

Delaware County Public Health Services will be conducting a Monkeypox vaccine clinic Today, from 4:30PM to 6:00 PM, at 99 Main Street in Delhi. The two vaccine doses are given 28 days apart. This is a 1st dose clinic only. More information is available at 607-832-5200 To register for the clinic, go to delawarecountypublichealth.com.

The Sidney Chamber of Commerce will hold their next meeting this morning at 8:00 AM. This morning's meeting will be held at the Trackside Diner, chamber members & Directors are urged to attend.

P.M. NEWS MONDAY 9-26-22

Governor Hochul announced the start of the 2nd phase of a plan to allow 3rd parties to offer the Commercial Driver License road test, to both public and private entities. The program is being implemented to address the shortage of bus and truck drivers. Any qualified third party is now eligible to apply for certification through the DMV, New Yorkers can find more information at dmv.ny.gov/commercial-drivers.

Famed "Star Trek" star & Author George Takei is scheduled to be a speaker at SUNY Oneonta on October 24 at 7:00 PM at the Alumni Field House. Takei is the author of “They Called Us Enemy”, which is a New York Times Best Seller, in which he describes his experiences of growing up in internment camps in the United States as a Japanese American during World War II.

State Police and the Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services announced that a contingent of 50 State Troopers left Saturday morning for Puerto Rico to help the island nation as it recovers from the devastation left behind in the wake of Hurricane Fiona. The first wave of 50 Troopers, along with 69 New Jersey State Troopers, flew out of JFK airport at about 10 am. this morning bound for Luis Munoz Marin International Airport in San Juan, Puerto Rico. The flight was donated by Jet Blue Airlines.

The State DOT will hold a public hearing this Wednesday at 5:30 pm. to discuss plans to enhance safety at 4 sites on State Route 8 in the towns of Columbus, New Berlin and Norwich. The proposed project will widen traffic lanes and shoulders, improve sight distances & reduce curves, the hearing will take place at the Unadilla Valley Central School Auditorium. More information is available at dot.ny.gov/Rt8Safety

Otsego County Sheriff's Office arrested Amy Schermerhorn of New Berlin following a traffic Stop in the town of Pittsfield. Schermerhorn was charged with Driving While Intoxicated and Operating a Motor Vehicle with .08% Blood Alcohol Content, She will appear in court at a later date.

Johnson City Police arrested 3 people in connection with the shooting of a man in the abdomen last week. Destiany Kleine-Hill, Justice Marimberga and David Van Patten were all charged with Attempted Murder, 1st degree Robbery & 2nd degree Burglary.

A.M. NEWS MONDAY 9-26-22

Delaware County Public Health Services will be conducting a Monkeypox vaccine clinic on Wednesday, October 5, from 4:30PM to 6:00 PM, at 99 Main Street in Delhi. The two vaccine doses are given 28 days apart. This is a 1st dose clinic only. More information is available at 607-832-5200 To register for the clinic, go to delawarecountypublichealth.com.

DCMO BOCES in Norwich is currently auctioning off 3 used school buses. The online auctions are open to the public at municibid.com and ends Thursday, September 29th.

Assemblyman Joe Angelino announced the launch of a $200 million Seed Fund Grant Program, which is targeted at helping small businesses recover after the COVID-19 pandemic. More Information and access to the application portal can be found at nyseedgrant.com. The program is in addition to the $800 million Pandemic Small Business Recovery Grant Program, which helped more than 35,000 small businesses with roughly $639 million since it began last year. Businesses may call 877-721-0097 for assistance from Empire State Development.

Norwich Police Department arrested Luis Franco of Brooklyn after they responded to a repport of an assault on September 22nd. The victim sustained broken bones, a fractured spine and a collapsed lung and was taken to a Binghamton Hospital, Franco was charged with Assault in the 2nd degree, he was arraigned and held on $25,000 cash bail.

P.M. NEWS TUESDAY 9-20-22

Hospice & Palliative Care of Chenango County are collecting items for their 2022 home made sale, which will be held in October, Hospice Spokesperson Sarah Green told WCDO News what kind of home made items they are looking for:

(Sarah Green 8-24-22)

Green said that the Items must be in to Hospice by this Friday September 23rd, at their Court Street Norwich offices, more information is available at 334-3556.

State Department of Labor today released preliminary local area unemployment rates for August. The State's unemployment rate increased from 4.3% in July to 4.7% in August, locally, Delaware County had 3.7% unemployment, Chenango County 3.3% and Otsego County 3.4% in August.

The Delaware County Historical Association is accepting nominations for its annual Awards of Merit. Individuals and groups who have made significant contributions to the preservation and presentation of local history, traditions and culture will be presented with awards at DCHA’s Annual Meeting to be held on Sunday, November 6, 2022. For more information call, (607) 746-3849, Email dcha@delhi.net or go to dcha-ny.org

The Delaware County Sheriff’s Office is currently investigating the theft of a 30-foot camper from a Case Hill Road residence in the Town of Franklin. The camper was last seen on August 13th or August 14th and was reported stolen on August 27th, it is described as beige & gray colored, Keystone Ultralite Camper with New Jersey plates TXP17X. Anyone with information is asked to contact the Delaware County Sheriff’s Office at 607-832-5555.

Delaware County Sheriff's Deputies arrested 68 year old Peter Maguire of East Meredith following a trespass investigation in Walton. On August 11th, Deputies responded to a report of a male entering onto and trespassing on several properties in the Village of Walton. After the investigation, the Village of Walton Court issued a criminal summons to Maguire for trespassing, he was arrested September 10th he was released and was ordered to appear in Walton Village Court at a later date..

A.M. NEWS Tuesday 9-20-22

The Raymond Corporation is continuing with a series of events to celebrate their 100th Anniversary, with their 8th annual Manufacturing day in October, Raymond President Michael Field told WCDO about Raymond's beginnings:

(Michael Field 9-20-22)

Fields said that the next 100th anniversary event is Manufacturing Day on October 7th, it is a virtual event, with a 1 hour video experience available throughout the month, for students who registered through their teachers, through Raymondcorp.com/ManufacturingDayRegistration.

The Broome County DPW will host a public information session today about the Colesville Road Safety Improvement project. The project calls for the installation of a traffic signal at the intersection of Colesville Road, North Road, and Sanitaria Springs Road, the meeting will be tonight at 7:00 PM at 780 Welton Street, Harpursville.

The State Health Department reminds New Yorkers about the availability of bivalent COVID-19 vaccine boosters from Pfizer, for anyone age 12 or older and from Moderna for those 18 or older. To schedule an appointment for a booster, New Yorkers should contact their local pharmacy, county health department, or healthcare provider; or visit vaccines.gov; the latest COVID 19 stats show a 6.88% positivity rate, the 7-Day rolling average was 6.43%, Patient Hospitalization are down to 2,002, with 215 ICU Patients & 69 on ventilators.

P.M. NEWS MONDAY 9-19-22

The Delaware County Sheriff’s Office is re-establishing its Law Enforcement Explorer’s Program and is now accepting applications. The program is designed for high school students ages 14-18 who are interested in learning more about law enforcement, Delaware County Sheriff Craig DuMond explains:

(Sheriff DuMond 9-19-22)

Sheriff DuMond said that applications or more information is available through Deputy Collin Roche at collin.roche@co.delaware.ny.us or at (607)-237-1641.

Governor Kathy Hochul today announced that more than 100 New York communities are now certified as Climate Smart Communities. Locally, the Town of New Lisbon in Otsego County was 1 of the 11 new municipalities, plus the town of Roseboom was 1 of 4 local governments that were re-certified by completing additional actions, more information is available at climatesmart.ny.gov.

Broome County District Attorney office announced that Vernon Riddick pleaded guilty to Attempted Criminal Possession of a Weapon, for having an unlicensed and loaded .40 handgun on July 24th while driving erratically in Binghamton. Police said that Riddick fled in his car, he abandoned the car and ran on foot, Police confiscated that weapon from a trash can nearby. Riddick faces sentencing in December in Broome County Court.

The Bainbridge Chamber of Commerce will hold their next regular meeting tomorrow morning. The meeting will begin at 7:30 am at the back of Bob's Diner. Chamber members are encouraged to attend & participate.

A.M. NEWS MONDAY 9-19-22

The State DOT will hold a public hearing on Wednesday, September 28th at 5:30 pm. to discuss plans to enhance safety at 4 sites on State Route 8 in the towns of Columbus, New Berlin and Norwich. The proposed project will widen traffic lanes and shoulders, improve sight distances, reduce curvature in the roadway, The hearing will take place at the Unadilla Valley Central School Auditorium. More information is available at dot.ny.gov/Rt8Safety

The Otsego Department of Health and the Sheriff's Office announced that certified Child Safety Seat Technicians are available today to check if the child seats are properly installed. The event will take place from 2:00 to 5:00 Pm today at the Home Depot on State highway 28 in Oneonta.

Otsego County Sheriff’s Deputies and employees of the Susquehanna SPCA seized an assortment of malnourished animals from Village Farms in Gilbertsville on Friday, 17 horses, 2 pigs, a llama, a donkey and a cat were taken from the farm, The investigation is ongoing.

P.M. NEWS TUESDAY 9-6-22

The Village of Sidney will be seeking community input with their Resilient Sidney program, next week, Sidney Village Mayor Andy Matviak commented:

(Andy Matviak 9-6-22)

The Community meeting will be held on Wednesday September 14th from 6:30 to 8:00 PM at the Community Cultural Center at 1 Bridge Street, more information about the program is available at resilient-sidney.com/nyforward.

The Delaware Valley Humane Society Started their annual "Heavy Metal Haul Out" teaming up with Waste Recovery Enterprises, owner Sean LaRose told WCDO News what they are taking:

(Sean LaRose 9-6-22)

Delaware Valley Humane Society Director Erin Insinga told WCDO News that this fundraiser proved to be very successful last year:

(Erin Insinga 9-6-22)

Insinga said that the Items will be accepted at the collection bin at the Humane Society through the end of the month of September.

State Police responded Friday to State Route 17 west to a crash involving several vehicles. In the 1st crash, vehicles were stopped on State Route 17 due to a construction barrel in the road, a vehicle was unable to stop and struck the rear of a vehicle, causing 2 vehicles to spin, 1 of them hit the guide rail, the other vehicle, struck a different vehicle and pushed it into 1 of the original vehicles. 2 drivers were taken to Wilson Hospital with non-life-threatening injuries, 2 other drivers were injured, & were treated at the scene.

The Chenango County Weekly Wastewater Surveillance Data Report showed an increase in COVID 19 levels over the past 2 weeks, which changes the county's detection level to "HIGH". County Health Officials recommend that people should wear a mask indoors in public and on public transportation, Get Tested if you have symptoms, more information is available by contacting the Chenango County Health Department at (607) 337-1660.

The Otsego County Sheriff's Office arrested 32 year old Emily Wood of Morris for Aggravated Harassment, following a complaint in the Town of Morris. Wood is accused of sending threatening and unwanted text messages to the victim. The defendant is set to appear in the Town of Morris Court at a later date.

Broome County Sheriff’s Deputy responded to a 2-car accident on I-86 in the Town of Windsor. During the investigation, 39 year old Michael Morgan of Queens, failed a field sobriety test & was charged with operating a motor vehicle while impaired by drugs. Morgan was processed and released on tickets returnable to the Town of Windsor Court.

A.M. NEWS TUESDAY 9-6-22

Firefighters from Bainbridge, Guilford, Mount Upton, Masonville, Coventry, Franklin, Trout Creek, Afton and Sidney all responded to a structure fire at the Auto Plus Store at 4 Front Street Monday Night at about 9:00 PM. Investigators are trying to determine how the fire started, the store was closed when the fire broke out, no injuries among fire fighters were reported.

The fire at the Minnewaska State Park Preserve was contained on Sunday, according to the Governor's office. The State DEC Forest Rangers are leading the incident response in cooperation with the Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation, Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services, State Police and many other State and local partners. Response actions in the area will continue in the coming days with a smaller force of state and local experts as fire control efforts advance. More than 200 firefighters, bulldozer operators, pilots, and other professional staff and volunteers have been working to contain the fire.

The Town of Guilford announced that a repair to the water tank will begin today for customers of the Mt. Upton Water District. The repairs are expected to take 1 week to complete, back up tanks are in place & no disruption of service is anticipated, but water conservation measures are encouraged., more information is available at 607-895-9966.

The Out Of The Woodwork Players announced that auditions will be taking place soon for "A Suessified Christmas Carol". Auditions for will be held Saturday September 10th from 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM, and Friday September 16th from 6:30 to 8:00 PM, in the Bainbridge Town Hall Theater, many roles are available for children, teens and adults. The performances will be held in December.

P.M. NEWS FRIDAY 8-26-22

Otsego County Department of Health & the CDC recommends that everyone who is not fully vaccinated to contact their Health Care Provder & complete the polio vaccination series as soon as possible, especially children. In Otsego County, only 80.4% of 2 year olds are recorded as having the recommended doses of polio vaccine, locally, Delaware County has a vaccination rate of 89.4%, and Schoharie County 88.8%. So far, 8 polio cases are being investigated in Rockland, Sullivan and Orange Counties.

The 7th Annual Binghamton Porchfest returns this Sunday, from 12:00 noon to 7:00 PM. Porchfest invites thousands of community members each summer for a free afternoon of live music performed from the residential porches, stoops, this year 165 local and regional bands and 59 host locations will participate. Food vendors and restroom locations will be set up and a free shuttle service is available throughout Binghamton's West End neighborhood.

The State Office of Cannabis Management announced that the State has begun accepting applications for the first adult-use cannabis retail dispensary licenses. The 1st legal retail dispensaries will be operated by those most impacted by the enforcement of the prohibition of cannabis, and those first sales will be made with products grown by New York farmers. New York’s recreational cannabis market is expected to reach $4.2 billion by 2027 and to create up to 60,000 jobs.

The J/C Cruise In Car Show will be held at the Unadilla Drive In Saturday, from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM. trophies will be awarded in a variety of categories, more information is available at 845-332-4144.

The Broome County Health Department reports a continuing increase in Overdoses in 2022, with 54 fatal overdoses & 333 Non fatal overdoses from January to this week. Broome County had as many as 76 fatal overdoses in 2016, the number was down to 32 in 2018, but the number of cases has increased every year since, with 54 last year. More information is available at gobroomecounty.com/boac.

A.M. NEWS FRIDAY 8-26-22

Delaware County Public Health’s Children & Youth with Special Health Care Needs program is sponsoring Art in the Park, hosted by The Oneonta World of Learning, tomorrow from 1:00 pm to 4:00 PM, at 167 Youngs Road in Oneonta. More information is available by calling Oneonta World of Learning at 607-353-9503.

P.M. NEWS WEDNESDAY 8-24-22

The Deposit Fire Department and Eastern Broome Emergency Services responded to a house fire in the Town of Sanford, Oquaga Lake Road was closed between Old Route 17 and Hanson Road. No injuries were reported, the structure sustained significant fire damage. Mutual aid was provided by fire fighters from Windsor, West Windsor, Harpursville, Ouaquaga and Afton.

Agriculture in New York state paid close to $1 billion in wages and produced roughly $3.3 billion in gross domestic product in 2021, according to a report by New York State Comptroller Thomas P. DiNapoli. The sector has proved to be among the most resilient during the COVID-19 pandemic, losing just 1% of jobs in 2020 compared to the statewide annual employment loss of 8.7%. Both employment and wages in the farming sector grew in 2021 to reach new highs of 23,868 employees and $970.2 million in wages.

Broome County District Attorney Mike Korchak announced that 32 year old Amanda Hoyt of Binghamton, pleaded guilty to the felony offense of Attempted Burglary in the Second Degree. In January, Hoyt illegally entered a St. Charles Street apartment in the Village of Johnson City and struck the resident in the arm with a hammer causing injury. Hoyt is a Second Violent Felony Offender and will be sentenced to 5 years in state prison on November 15th.

Delaware County Sheriff’s Deputies responded to a Fight-in-Progress Complaint in the Hamlet of Arkville on July 16th. Rolland Billadeau of Shandaken allegedly pushed and struck the victim, Billadeau was located on August 21st and was served with a criminal summons on the charge of Harassment in the Second Degree. Billadeau is scheduled to appear before the Town of Middletown Court at a later date to answer for the charge. Sheriff’s Deputies were assisted by members of the New York State Police.

The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service issued a public health alert for Perdue’s frozen ready-to-eat chicken breast tenders “gluten free”, They may be contaminated with small pieces of clear plastic and blue dye. Officials advise that consumers return the product to the store where it was purchased or throw it away.

Hospice & Palliative Care of Chenango County are collecting items for their 2022 home made sale, which will be held in October, Hospice Spokesperson Sarah Green told WCDO News what kind of home made items they are looking for:

(Sarah Green 8-24-22)

Green said that the Items must be in to Hospice by September 23rd, the sale will be held at the hospice location at 33- 39 Court Street in Norwich on October 15th from 9:30 AM to 3:00 PM, more information is available at 334-3556.

A.M. NEWS WEDNESDAY 8-24-22

The Election results have been tabulated; in the 19th Congressional District, special election, Pat Ryan appears to have defeated Republican Marcus Molinaro to fill the Congressional seat through the end of this year. 51st State Senate District, incumbent Republican Peter Oberacker won & will be on the ballot in November. In the 52nd State Senate District, Lea Webb won the Democratic party nomination, and will face Republican Rich David in November. In the 19th Congressional District, the Democratic Party Primary Josh Riley is the winner & he will appear on the Ballot in November for the term starting January 1st 2023.

Delaware County Public Health will host a Free Rabies Vaccination Clinic For dogs, cats and ferrets today from 5:00 to 7:00 PM in Delhi. The clinic will be held at the Delhi Fire Hall, 140 Delview Terrace Extension, more information is available at 607-832-5200 or at delawarecountypublichealth.com

The State Department of Health will be operating a COVID-19 vaccination clinic on the grounds of the Great New York State Fair in Syracuse during its entire 13-day run, beginning August 24. The clinic will be open from 10:00 A.M. to 6:00 P.M. every day of the fair, inside the Exposition Center. Access to the clinic is included with Fair admission. There is no charge for the vaccines or boosters.

P.M. NEWS FRIDAY 8-12-22

The Office of the Attorney General will make its Election Protection Hotline available for the upcoming August 23rd election and during New York's early voting period, tomorrow through Sunday, August 21. Voters that experience problems can report issues by calling (866) 390-2992, or by emailing election.hotline@ag.ny.gov.

The Delaware County Chamber of Commerce will start the 2022 Leaderful Delaware classes, which will start on September 13 with an in-person session in Delhi, with meeting on the 2nd & 4th Tuesday's from 1 to 4 pm, through October. Applicants may be sponsored by a business or a community leader. Tuition is $300 and includes all materials and fees. Application due Sept. 1. For more information and an application visit delawarecounty.org, email info@delawarecounty.org or call 607.746.2281.

The State Department of Labor announced the conclusion of an identity theft and fraud case from a 2017 investigation. 54 year old Guy Cuomo of Frederick, Maryland, was sentenced yesterday to 45 months after being found guilty of computer fraud, misuse of a social security number, aggravated identity theft, and related conspiracy charges.

Former New York Governor Andrew Cuomo believes that state taxpayers should pay for his legal defense against the allegations of sexual harassment that led to his resignation from office one year ago. Cuomo filed suit Thursday against the state Attorney General for allegedly violating state law by denying his request to be assigned public assistance for his defense, after Attorney General James denied the former Governor legal counsel. James issued a statement saying: “Taxpayers should not have to pony up for legal bills that could reach millions of dollars so Mister Cuomo’s lawyer can attack survivors of his abuse.”

Federal Health Officials are arriving in New York, following an increase in Polio cases detected in the wastewater in 2 counties this week. The State Health department is urging everyone who has not received a Polio vaccine to get one as soon as possible, more information is available by contacting your County Health Department.

A.M. NEWS Friday 8-12-22

The Chenango County Fair will have a free show tonight, Terry Potter of Millennia Entertainment explains;

(Terry Potter 8-12-22)

Chenango County Fair Spokesperson Mary Weidman told WCDO about the Saturday & Sunday activities at the Fairgrounds in Norwich:

(Mary Weidman 8-12-22)

The Chenango County Fair will run through Sunday, the remaining schedule is available at chenangofair.com.

Friends of Rogers of Sherburne is participating in the 3rd anniversary celebration for Hidden Springs Brewhouse in the town of Norwich, today through Sunday, with Food Trucks, Live Music & a fundraising raffle. The Friends of Rogers Educational Event will be the Cornell Raptor Program on Saturday Aug 13th from 1:00 to 3:00 pm, more information is available at Friendsofrogers.org.

P.M. NEWS WEDNESDAY 8-10-22

Over 1,300 of cases of Monkeypox have been reported in New York State so far, about 25% of the nationwide total, the Majority of State cases are downstate. There are 2 vaccines which were developed for smallpox that have been proven to help with Monkey pox, which requires 2 doses, 4 weeks apart, to prevent the disease within a certain timeframe. The State has recevied well over 100,000 vaccines, appointments should be scheduled through your County health department.

Governor Kathy Hochul announced that $10 million will be made available to assist in creating and operating threat assessment management teams, to combat domestic terrorism, that will be made up from law enforcement agencies, mental health professionals, & school officials from around the state. The Executive order was issued in response to the Mass Shooting at a Buffalo Supermarket, where Payton Gendron of Conklin is accused of targeting the neighborhood because of a high percentage of black residents.

2 people have been reported deceased following a head on crash on the Vestal Parkway Monday night near Binghamton University. 1 person was pronounced dead at the scene and the 2nd passed away Tuesday at an area hospital, the investigation is ongoing, the names of the deceased have not been released.

The State officials are warning New Yorkers to kill the invasive spotted lanternfly, which were located on Staten Island 2 summers ago, they have migrated throughout New York City, Long Island and into the Hudson Valley. The Spotted Lanternfly feeds on 70 species of plants, including several important New York crops that are important to the state's agricultural economy. Anyone who sees a spotted lanternfly is asked to fill out a survey so the Department of Agriculture at survey123.arcgis.com.

The American Red Cross continues schedule blood drives as blood supplies remain critically low in the summer months. Currently, about 62% of the U.S. population are eligible to give blood, but only about 3% donates, Spokesperson Meg Rossman comments:

(Meg Rossman 8-10-22)

Several blood drives are scheduled locally in this month, all who donate in August will be automatically entered for a chance to win gas for a year, everyone will also receive a $10 e-gift card to a merchant of choice. Donors can schedule an appointment with the Red Cross Blood Donor App, by visiting RedCrossBlood.org or by calling 1-800-RED CROSS.

A.M. NEWS Wednesday 8-10-22

State Police arrested 46 year old Justin Valk of Davenport, for 2nd degree Manslaughter and Criminally Negligent Homicide. Troopers responded August 1st to a residence on Pine Cliff Circle in the town of Davenport for a medical event involving 47 year old Stephanie Valk of Davenport, she was transported to a local hospital, and died on August 3rd. Police accused Justin Valk of being awarde that Stephanie Valk was suffering from a medical event, inflicted additional physical harm, and failed to call for medical assistance, he was arrested and arraigned & was remanded to the Delaware County Jail on $30,000 cash bail or $75,000 bond. Anyone with information in this case, is asked to call State Police at 607-561-7400.

Chobani will host the World Refugee Forum Today online. Chobani founder and CEO Hamdi Ulukaya stated that they have successfully brought many refugees to work in their plants, Speakers will include Ulukaya, Congressmen Michael McCaul of Texas & Jason Crow of Colorado; among others, The virtual event will be held at 1:00 PM, it is free and open to the public. To register go to chobanirefugeeforum.com.

P.M. NEWS MONDAY 8-8-22

The Delaware County Fair will get underway next week August 15th through the 20th, in Walton, Spokesman Jason Craig told WCDO News that the preparations are coming together quickly:

(Jason Craig 8-8-22)

The full schedule of events for the fair can be found at delawarecountyfair.org.

Sidney Area 1st Responders were dispatched to the report of a tractor trailer going into a ditch in the south bound lane of State Route 8 South of Sidney This Morning. Crews emptied the contents of the trailer for several hours, the vehicle was being removed from the site earlier this afternoon.

Fire Companies from Broome and Chenango Counties responded early this morning to a house fire at 101 Sapbush Road in the Town of Barker at about 3:30 AM. Fire Fighters from Chenango Forks, Whitney Point, Lisle, Greene, Smithville among others were called to the scene, occupants in nearby houses were evacuated, no injuries were reported, the cause of the fire is under investigation.

Police responded to the report of a Bomb Threat at the Heath Sciences Building on Corliss Avenue in Johnson City Friday. The threat is being investigated by the University Police Department & local law enforcement agencies & the FBI, the threat was deemed not credible & the building was opened again on Saturday. The investigation is continuing & no arrests have been announced.

The State Health Department reported on the latest COVID Statistics Friday, the Positivity rate was almost 8.5% with 6502 positive cases in more than 74,000 Tests. There were 2550 people hospitalized statewide with 224 patients in an ICU, with 81 on Ventilators, there were 20 more deaths reported in Hospitals & Nursing Homes, 73,028 have died from COVID since 2020.

Broome County DA's office announced that 42 year old Matthew Bowden of Deposit, pleaded guilty to felony Criminal Contempt. In 2021, Bowden Violated a court order of protection by harassing the protected party named in the order. He was sentenced to 1 to 3 years in New York State Prison.

State Police & Emergency crews responded to the report of a concrete truck rollover today on I-88 in the town of Unadilla. No tickets have been announced, more information will be released following the investigation.

A.M. NEWS MONDAY 8-8-22

The Delaware County Department of Public Works will be closing County Route 16 in the Towns of Delhi and Franklin to through traffic beginning at 7:00 AM today, through this Thursday to replace several culvert pipes. The road will be reopened at the end of the day each day. The traveling public should seek alternate routes.

The Chenango County Fair will feature the Saturday Night Showdown, at 7:00 PM, Terry Potter of Millennia Entertainment explains:

(Terry Potter 8-8-22)

Potter Said that the Roping qualifiers Saturday afternoon is a free event, the finalists will qualify to compete in the Saturday Night Showdown, Tickets are available at The Fair Office, Norwich Copies on East Main Street Norwich or at brownpapertickets.com , more information call 607-334-9198

State Police announced that they removed 36 impaired drivers off the roadways in the month of July. Troop "C" encompasses seven counties including Broome, Chenango, Delaware, & Otsego counties.

P.M. NEWS Wednesday 8-3-22

Delaware County Sheriff's Office arrested 34 year old Amanda Nodine of Delhi & 25-year-old Chance Byington of Colchester, after Deputies received a call Sunday from a Home owner reporting that his personal property in the Town of Delhi had been set on fire. Deputies charged Nodine with Criminal Contempt for Violating an active Order of protection, plus 1 count each of Arson & Criminal Mischief. Deputies charged Byington for Criminal Mischief & Arson. Nodine was arraigned in the Town of Hamden Court, an order of protection was issued on behalf of the victim, and she was released in her own recognizance will appear in Town of Delhi Court at a later date. Byington was also released on an Appearance Ticket returnable to the Town of Delhi Court at a later date.

State Police arrested 18 year old Noe Casas-Aguilar of Binghamton and a 17-year-old juvenile for 2 counts of 1st degree Burglary, 2 counts of 1st degree Robbery plus Criminal Possession of a Weapon & Reckless Endangerment. Troopers were dispatched Sunday Morning to a residence on Bevier Street in the town of Dickinson for a report of 2 males that broke into an occupied home. The suspects fled the area and were located later in Binghamton and were arrested. Casas-Aguilar was transported to Broome County Jail for Central Arraignment and Processing. The 17-year-old was transported to Oneida County Correctional Facility.

New York State has about 170,000 Monkeypox vaccines that are ready to be distributed, about 80,000 will go to the upstate counties, According to US Senator Kirsten Gillibrand:

(Gillibrand 8-3-22)

Symptoms of Monkeypox include a new, unexplained rash that develops into hard, round, fluid-filled skin lesions, along with Fever, Swollen lymph nodes, Muscle aches & Chills, over 1300 cases have been found in New York, about a quarter of all nationwide cases. Vaccine locations can be found at health.ny.gov.

Binghamton police arrested 38 year old Carheem Felton of BInghamton, for the shooting of an individual at the Northside Deli on Chenango Street Tuesday afternoon. Felton was charged with Attempted Murder, & possession of a weapon, Police recovered a 9mm ghost gun , anyone with information is asked to contact Binghamton Police at 772-7080.

Governor Kathy Hochul today announced the ratification of a 5-year labor agreement with the Civil Service Employee Association, which includes over 52,000 State employees. The agreement passed with 80% approval, it runs until April 1st 2026, it includes raises in each year of the agreement of 2% for the first 2 years and 3% for the remaining 3 years.

A.M. NEWS WEDNESDAY 8-3-22

State Police were dispatched Sunday Night to Parker Hollow Road near Sunshine Mountain Road in the town of Sidney to a single vehicle crash, where a vehicle went off the roadway, struck a tree and became engulfed in flames. The victim has been identified as 58 year old Tammy Oefelein of Bainbridge, her dog also died in the accident.

The Delaware County Fair will begin on August 15th this year at the Fairgrounds in Walton, Fair Spokesman Jason Craig said that this year, they are preparing for a return to pre-pandemic levels of activity:

(Jason Craig 8-3-22)

The Delaware County Fair runs through August 20th, the full schedule can be found at delawarecountyfair.org.

Otsego County Department of Health and Bassett Healthcare are seeking community input on health concerns. The Department wants to know what are areas of concern for Otsego County, the information will be used to determine future public health interventions in Otsego County. The Survey can be found at redcap.bassett.org.

The Sidney Chamber of Commerce will hold their next meeting this morning. The meeting begins at 8:00 AM at the Sidney Golf & Country Club.

P.M. NEWS WEDNESDAY 7-27-22

The Broome County Sheriff’s Office responded Tuesday morning at the abandoned Vestal Hills Country Club, for the report of a person being shot with a Bow & Arrow. Deputies found 23-year-old Bayso Vannavongsa of Binghamton early Tuesday morning in the parking lot of the Country Club with a non-life threatening wound to his chest. He was transported to Wilson Hospital for evaluation. State police attempted to stop the vehicle that allegedly left the scene, and the 2 occupants, Savannah Perry and Carson Vanco of Endicott, fled but were found on Powderhouse Road. Police accuse Vanco of shooting the arrow at Vannavongsa, The investigation is on-going and criminal charges are expected.

Federal Prosecutors announced that 63 year old Timothy Deuel of Tioga County, pleaded guilty to 3 counts of possession of child pornography. Deuel was sentenced in the U.S. District Court in 2015 to 87 months imprisonment and 10 years supervised release as a result of his conviction for distribution of child pornography, he admitted that he again possessed approximately 1,000 images of child pornography and more than 200 video files of child pornography. Sentencing on the latest conviction will be on November 29th, Deuel faces a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison, a fine of up to $250,000, and a term of supervised release of at least 5 years and up to life.

State Police responded to Otsego County Highway 13 and Hawks Road in the town of Pittsfield for a report of a vehicle on fire with a person trapped inside. Troopers learned that firefighters were already on scene and confirmed that the vehicle was fully engulfed with a person inside who was deceased. An investigation revealed that the 36-year-old female operator went off the roadway, struck an embankment and a tree.

Delaware County Sheriff's Deputies were dispatched Tuesday to a 2 car motor vehicle accident at State Highway 23 and County Highway 10 in the Town of Davenport. Initial reports state that a car was traveling Northwest on County Highway 10, it entered the intersection of County Highway 10 and State Highway 23, when it was it was struck by a pickup truck traveling Southwest on State Highway 23. A female passenger in the car was pronounced dead at the scene. The male driver of the car suffered serious, life threatening injuries. The male driver of the pickup truck suffered minor injuries and his male passenger was uninjured. The cause of the accident is still under investigation by the Sheriff’s Office Accident Reconstruction Team, no tickets have been issued and no arrests have been made.

Sidney Rotary Club & Cullman Child Developmental Center of Sidney continue to gain popularity with their free summer events, Rotary Spokesman Larry Halbert said that their recent Dairy Day event was very successful, and they anticipate similar attendance at the "Big Rig Event" August 6th:

(Larry Halbert 7-27-22)

Halbert said that the event will be held at the Cullman Center at 90 West Road in Sidney, more information is available at the Sidney Rotary Facebook Page, or by calling 563-PLAY.

A.M. NEWS Wednesday 7-27-22

The World Health Organization declared the international monkeypox outbreak a global emergency, & the State Department of Health continues to monitor the current monkeypox outbreak.   Chenango County Department of Public Health Director Isaiah Sutton told WCDO News that they are prepared if a case is confirmed locally:

(Isaiah Sutton 7-26-22)

Sutton said that anyone with symptoms of monkeypox should first call their health care provider, more information is also available by calling the Chenango County Health Department at (607) 337-1660.

The Delaware County Department of Public Works will be closing County route 14 in the Town of Franklin to through traffic beginning at 7:00 a.m. today, to remove a large tree. The closure will be between Church Street and Blue School Road. The traveling public should seek alternate routes. Because of this work, the DPW will not be closing County Road 16 Today, it will be closed tomorrow, July 28th.

Village of Sidney officials announced that today, at approximately 10:00am, the Circle Drive Booster Pump will be going online. Resident may notice discolored water that should clear up quickly.

P.M. NEWS TUESDAY 7-26-22

State Police reported that 79 year old RoseMarie Windisch of Jefferson was the driver of a vehicle that veered into the opposing lane & hit a Flatbed Truck July 21st. Windisch was pronounced dead at the scene, on State Route 23 in the Town of Roxbury, The flatbed truck operators was unable to avoid the collision, & was treated at Bassett Medical Center in Cooperstown for non-life-threatening injuries.

State Police were requested to check the welfare of 62 year old Theodore Hammer of Unadilla Monday, he was located in a creek near his residence on Martin Brook Road in Unadilla. The investigation into the cause of his death is continuing.

The State Department of Labor today released preliminary local area unemployment rates for June 2022. Locally, Chenango County had 3% unemployment, Delaware County 3.5% & Otsego County 3.1% unemployment in June, the state Unemployment was at 4.4%.

Catholic Charities announced another successful Mass Food Distribution in Sidney on July 19th. 623 Households received food, 36 Families had 6 people or more in their household, a total of 1,742 People received over 17,000 pounds of food. 58 volunteers helped distribute the food at latest Sidney event.

The Chenango County Historical Society announced their Summer Barn Party, to be held from 6:00 to 8:30 PM on Friday August 5th in the Society’s Loomis Barn, at 41 Rexford Street in Norwich. Event proceeds will support a significant portion of the organization’s annual operating budget. Early bird tickets are $39 each at ChenangoHistorical.org through this Friday July 29.

Nyseg reported that the number of people without power locally was about 45 this afternoon, after crews have worked since Sunday to restore power. Downed trees & power lines caused thousands of power outages following Sunday's Storms.

The State Health Department reported that the positivity rate from the latest strains of COVID 19 is still just under 10% state wide. Patient Hospitalizations continue to increase back up to 2,649, there are 253 ICU patients, 79 on ventilators, there were 24 more deaths reported in Hospitals & nursing homes from COVID 19.

The Alzheimer's Association Walk to End Alzheimer will be held in Oneonta at Neahwa Park on September 25th this year, which is a key fundraiser for the Association, Spokesperson Ann Thayer told WCDO News that while the event is 2 months away, people can start forming teams to participate right now:

(Ann Thayer 7-26-22)

More information about the Leatherstocking/Oneonta Walk on Sunday, September 25th, or other programs, can be found by calling Thayer at 607-206-4514. at Neahwa Park in Oneonta. We hope you'll join and add your flower to our Walk.

A.M. NEWS TUESDAY 7-26-22

State Police responded to a shooting in the town of Union Monday night. An adult male was found to have been shot in the chest and was transported to Wilson Memorial Hospital in Johnson City, The 40-year-old victim suffered non-life-threatening injuries.  There is no threat to the public and the investigation is on-going.  Anyone with information is asked to call State Police at (607)561-7400.

Governor Kathy Hochul today announced that nearly $70 million in grant funding has been awarded to newly licensed, registered or permitted child care programs in areas lacking child care slots, The funds were made available through the American Rescue Plan Act and are administered by the State Office of Children and Family Services. In the Southern Tier, $4,148,000 in grant funding will go to 26 child care facilities.

The State DOT announced that the Exit 5 ramp from southbound I-81 to U.S. Route 11 and the intersection of Route 11 and Old Front Street in the Town of Dickinson, is closed for about 10 days to accommodate construction of a new roundabout. Variable Messaging Signs are in place advising motorists of detours, Travelers should anticipate delays and allow for extra travel time.

P.M. NEWS THURSDAY 7-21-22

The State Department of Labor announced that the number of private sector jobs in the State increased over the month by 19,700, to just under 8 million in June 2022. The number is about 300,000 less than the highest number registered before the COVID 19 pandemic kicked in & the state closed down in 2020. The State's unemployment rate held steady at 4.4% in June, following 5 consecutive months of decline.

The Delaware County Chamber of Commerce will host a New York 19th Congressional Candidate Forum with a question and answer session featuring Republican candidate Marcus Molinaro and Democratic candidate Patrick Ryan. Both candidates are looking to fill the seat vacated by Antonio Delgado, who now serves as the New York Lieutenant Governor. The event will be held on August 4th from 6:30 to 8:00 PM at the Roscoe Beer Company Garden, on 145 Rockland Road. The special election will be held on August 23rd.

Governor Kathy Hochul announced the opening of the initial intake tool to help small businesses determine their eligibility for the COVID-19 Capital Costs Tax Credit Program. The $250 million COVID-19 Capital Costs Tax Credit Program will support small businesses that made investments to comply with emergency orders and regulations or to increase public safety in response to COVID-19. If deemed eligible by the screening tool, a link to the application will be provided when the program application opens. The Screening Tool Available online at formrouter.apps.esd.ny.gov.

Catholic Charities is offering free School Supplies & & Backpacks for children enrolled in the Sidney Central School District. Spokesperson penny McKnight explains:

(Penny McKnight 7-21-22)

Eligible families can Preregister at the Sidney Office of Catholic Charities in the Sidney Civic Center on Liberty Street, through August 12th, more information is available at 607-604-4071.

The State Health Department reported a polio case, in Rockland County, it's the 1st case of Polio in the U.S. in nearly a decade. Officials did not offer details yet on who the resident is, whether the person was vaccinated or their current condition. In 1979, polio was declared eliminated in the U.S., however travelers with polio have brought infections into the U.S., the case was in 2013.

A.M. NEWS THURSDAY 7-21-22

Friends of Recovery of Delaware and Otsego Counties announced that they have the first Narcan vending machine available locally. The vending machine offers Naloxone kits that with 2 doses of Narcan nasal spray, it is located at The Turning Point of Otsego County at 22 Elm Street in Oneonta.

Upstate Shredding's Southern Tier Tuesday's philanthropic team announced that Getthere Mobility Management is this week’s winner of a $2,000 grant. Getthere is a program from the Rural Health Network of South Central New York to get people to appointments who have no other way to get to them.

P.M. NEWS FRIDAY 7-15-22

Village of Sidney Police Department responded Thursday night at about 9:50 PM, to a security alarm activation at Smoker's Choice at 6 Doran Lane, where a burglary was in progress, a suspect has been identified and an arrest is pending. While at Smoker's Choice, officers received a report of shots fired and a person with a firearm on Union Street at the Maria's convenience store, Police found no evidence of a discharged firearm, a store employee was checking the business for a break in & legally possessed a firearm, police discovered that a burglary was attempted at Maria's prior to the Smoker's Choice burglary. The investigation is ongoing.

State Comptroller Tom DiNapoli reported that the total cost of overtime in 2021 reached an all-time high at more than $924 million, up 8.7% from 2020. Total overtime hours worked at state agencies have increased by 38% since 2012, while the number of employees has declined by more than 10% at 10 major agencies. 66% of the state’s overtime in 2021 came from the Office for People with Developmental Disabilities & the Department of Corrections and the Office of Mental Health.

The State Health Department reported the latest statistics on the COVID 19 pandemic, and the results of Wednesday's testing statewide. Over 97,000 New Yorkers were tested Wednesday, with over 9200 positives, the statewide positivity rate is still slightly over 9%. Hospitalizations are back over 2400, with 233 Patients in an ICU bed & 70 on ventilators., there were 14 more deaths in hospitals & nursing homes Wednesday.

New Yorkers enrolled in SNAP will receive the maximum allowable level of food benefits for July, including those already at the maximum level of benefits. Eligible families will see the extra benefits post between today and Friday, July 22.

Broome County District Attorney Mike Korchack announced that 38 year old Shandel Terry of Binghamton was sentenced to 10 years in prison today in Broome County Court, following a guilty plea for criminal possession of a controlled substance. Terry was arrested following the execution of a search warrant in March of 2021, Terry possessed crack cocaine & fentanyl with intent to sell. Terry was also sentenced to serve 3 years of post release supervision at the conclusion of his jail term.

Chenango County Department of Public Works announced that they will be participating in a paint recycling program year round, spokesman Dustin Hendricks explains:

(Dustin Hendricks 7-15-22)

Hendricks said that the Paint Care program is a state wide recycling program, the paints can be brought to the Chenango County recycling locations any day during normal business hours.

A.M. NEWS FRIDAY 7-15-22

Delaware County Sheriff's Office arrested 25 year old Matthew Fenelon of Brooklyn for Aggravated Unlicensed Operation & a variety of other charges, following an investigation of a Rollover accident in the Town of Franklin July 5th. Deputies reported that the vehicle was operated by Fenelon, he was extricated from the vehicle and transported to a hospital by LifeNet. Deputies found that Fenelon was operating a vehcile with a suspended registration, his driving privileges were also suspended. On July 8th, Deputies made contact with Fenelon after he was released from the hospital & he was arrested & was released on appearance tickets for Town of Franklin Court at a later date.

Delaware County Chamber of Commerce will hold its "3rd Friday Business & Breakfast" event this morning at the Hamden Inn. Featured speakers are Deborah Roberts and Ivana Guzy of Friends of Recovery of Delaware and Otsego Counties on ways to create recovery-friendly workplaces to eliminate barriers for those impacted by addiction. The event will be from 8:30 to 10:00 AM, more information about this or other Delaware County Chamber events can be found at delawarecounty.org, or by calling 607-746-2281.

P.M. NEWS TUESDAY 7-12-22

State Police reported this afternoon that 13 year old Allison Burns of Stillwater was located and is safe. Burns was reported missing and was last seen yesterday at approximately 8:30 AM outside her home, she got into a blue Honda CRV, & police beleived that she may have been headed to the Southern Tier, more details are expected to be released shortly.

Delaware County Chamber of Commerce will be hosting their next Business & Breakfast event this Friday Morning at 8:30 at the Hamden Inn. Delaware County Chamber President Ray Pucci explains:

(Ray Pucci 7-12-22)

Chambers members can register for Friday's discussion at delawarecounty.org.

Chenango County Health Department is conducting a county-level Community Health Assessment. The Assessment helps identify the specific health needs of local communities, The survey can be found at surveymonkey.com.

The Otsego County Department of Health is holding a Rabies Vaccination Clinic at the Edmeston Town Barn from 6:00 to 8:00 PM. More information is available at 607-547-4230.

A.M. NEWS Tuesday 7-12-22

Governor Kathy Hochul announced the launch of a free hotline for people who test positive for COVID-19 but do not have a health care provider. The hotline, 888-TREAT-NY, was launched by the State Department of Health after reaching an agreement to utilize the Virtual ExpressCare Platform operated by NYC Health + Hospitals. The hotline is available to all New York residents.

Broome County District Attorney Mike Korchak announced that 62-year-old James Sullivan of Vestal pleaded guilty to felony charges of the criminal sexual act and 1st degree sexual abuse. Sullivan admitted that he engaged in sexual conduct with a male child under the age of 11 for a 6 year period, Sullivan will serve 7 years in prison followed by 10 years of post-release supervision, when he is Sentenced in October.

The Norwich DRI Local Planning Committee will be holding a meeting today at 3:30 PM in the Community Room at Commerce Chenango at 15 South Broad Street in Norwich. The LPC will officially vote on the final slate of projects to be recommended for DRI funding and included in Norwich’s Strategic Investment Plan. This meeting is open to the public.

P.M. NEWS MONDAY 7-11-22

The State Health Department reports elevated levels of COVID 19's latest strains, in all regions of the state in their testing on Friday. There were 11 deaths reported for Friday with 222 patients in ICU and 79 patients on Ventilators, The statewide positivity rate for the day is 9.20%, the Southern tier had among the lowest positivity rates at 6.12% Friday.

Firefighters from Norwich, North Norwich, Plymouth & Sherburne responded to a structure fire at 145 Morgan Acres north of the City of Norwich Monday morning. Norwich Fire Chief Jan Papelino told WCDO News that a neighbor removed a dog, firefighters kept the fire from spreading further into the structure, which sustained sufficient damage, the investigation is continuing.

The Sidney Memorial Public Library announced that they will be permanently closing the Sidney Center Branch Library shortly, Sidney Library Director Beth Paine explains:

(Beth Paine 7-11-22)

The final date for the Sidney Center Library will be August 31st, materials will be moved to the Masonville branch.

Catholic Charities in Sidney is offering their free backpack & school supplies giveaway this year, Spokesperson Penny McKnight explains:

(Penny McKnight 7-11-22)

Registration starts today through August 12th by stopping at the Catholic Charities Sidney Office at the Civic Center or by calling 607-604-4071.

Delaware County Sheriff's Office have arrested 29 year old Victor Grandel of Brooklyn. Deputies responded July 2nd to an accident scene on County Route 21 in Franklin, where the vehicle had been reported stolen out of New York City in June, a search of the vehicle revealed a quantity of drugs, drug paraphernalia, a loaded firearm, and cash. 3 individuals occupying the vehicle were transported to the hospital for treatment of injuries, Grandel was taken into custody by Deputies and charged with Criminal Possession of Stolen Property & Criminal Possession of a Weapon, he was arraigned & was remanded to the custody of the Delaware County Correctional Facility pending a future court appearance. Arrest warrants were issued for the other 2 occupants of the vehicle.

State Police reported that 6-year-old Onnex Thompson-Hall was found dead at around 6:40 Sunday evening. Police said that the boy was autistic, and his body was in a pond not far from his home in Washington County. Investigators believe the death to be an accidental drowning, the boy was reported missing late Sunday morning, the investigation is continuing.

The State Comptroller's office audited the West Colesville Volunteer Fire Company, the audit found that the board did not have sufficient controls or information to ensure all disbursements were appropriate and necessary. As a result, the company made unnecessary disbursements totaling $4,107, the board also could not determine whether all collections were properly recorded or deposited.

A.M. NEWS MONDAY 7-11-22

The New York State Department of Motor Vehicles is warning people of a phishing scam claiming the state is offering $1,500 rebates because of high gas prices, where the scammers send text messages instructing people to click the link to see if they qualify, the link leads to a website designed to look like the actual DMV site. It asks for personal information, State officials report that this is an attempt at identity theft or to install malicious software on computers or cell phones. If you suspect you may have been contacted through a phishing scam, you can email the DMV at: dmv.sm.phishingattacks@dmv.ny.gov.

The Broome County District Attorney Michael Korchak announced that 45-year-old Donnell Bailey of Binghamton will serve 1 to 3 years in prison after pleading guilty to failure to comply with the New York State Sex Offender Registration Act. Bailey failed to provide an address to local law enforcement in 2021 while living in Broome County, he was convicted in 20 years ago for criminal sexual act.

Otsego County Sheriff's Office arrested 58-year-old Dale Beach of Franklin for criminal mischief for an incident last month. Beach is accused of damaging a vehicle by throwing rocks at it in the town of Otego, he was arrested and faces court action shortly.

The Broome County Health Department reported an increase in overdoses this year. This year there have been 44 fatal overdoses and 258 suspected non-fatal overdoses already reported, more information about treatment programs can be found at gobroomecounty.com/boac.

New York State Economy Added 27,200 Private Sector Jobs in May & the Unemployment Rate Decreased from 4.5% to 4.4% Over the Month, according to the State Department of Labor. The number of private sector jobs was back up just under 8 Million, the number of unemployed in the state dropped to 414,800 in May.

Bassett Healthcare Network is putting in place new visitation guidelines at its hospital and clinic locations starting next Tuesday. All people who enter Bassett Healthcare Network’s buildings must wear a properly fitting surgical-grade mask during the entirety of their visit and participate in screening procedures upon entrance, including temperature checks and a brief questionnaire. Proper personal protective equipment will be provided at building entrances for those who need it. Full visitation policy information for Bassett Healthcare Network is available on www.bassett.org.

US Senator Kirsten Gillibrand's bill expanding health care and benefits for veterans exposed to toxic military burn pits in Iraq and Afghanistan passed the U.S. Senate on Thursday, Gillibrand has been pushing for this bill for several years:

(Gillibrand 6-16-22)

The Senate Passage sends the legislation back to the House for final approval before moving to the president's desk for signature into law.

State Police in Troop C arrested 63 year old Candy Barklow of Apalachin for Aggravated Vehicular Assault. Troopers were dispatched on June 6th to a report of a vehicle that struck a man working on his front lawn when he was struck. Barklow fled the scene, the victim was taken to Wilson Medical Center with serious injuries. Barklow was arrested about 25 minutes later by Vestal Police for DWI, Barklow was transported to Tioga County Central Arraignment and Processing.

A.M. NEWS THURSDAY 6-16-22

Over 1600 customers of NYSEG in Otsego, Delaware, Broome & Chenango Counties were without power this morning, due to the overnight storms, crews have been working to restore power, this afternoon, the number of customers without power was down to about 280.

State Police responded at about 7:00 PM last night to a report of a tractor trailer rollover on Interstate 81 north near McGraw, No injuries have been reported. The driver of the tractor trailer has been arrested for Driving While Intoxicated. DEC spill response was called in for cleanup, The investigation is on going.

Democratic Party Chairmen across the 19th Congressional District chose Ulster County Executive Pat Ryan to run for the seat in a special election on August 23rd. Republican County Committee Chairmen have chosen Marc Molinari as their candidate for Congressional seat, that was vacated when Antonio Delgado became State Lieutenant Governor.

The Oneonta Susquehanna Greenway announced that a groundbreaking will be held today, after the Future for Oneonta Foundation provided a $50,000 Grant to help complete a trail connecting several Oneonta Parks. 3 of 4 sections are complete and open to the public, when completed, the trail will follow the Susquehanna River for about 6 miles from the Silas Lane Loop in the West End of Oneonta to Neawha Park and around New Island in the city of Oneonta, future plans call for a possible expansion to Fortin Park in the East End of Oneonta. More information is available at oneontagreenway.org.

P.M. NEWS WEDNESDAY 6-15-22

Federal prosecutors have filed hate crime charges against 18-year-old Payton Gendron of Conklin, he is accused of killing 10 people & injuring 3 others in a Buffalo Tops Supermarket in a predominantly black neighborhood on May 14th. Gendron faces 26 counts of hate crimes and firearms offenses, he charges include 10 counts of hate crimes resulting in death, three counts of hate crimes involving bodily injury and attempt to kill, 10 counts of using a firearm to commit murder during and in retaliation to a crime of violence and three counts of using and discharging of a firearm during and in retaliation to a crime of violence.

Local sales tax collections in New York state increased by 16.7% in May compared to the same month in 2021, according to an analysis released today by State Comptroller Thomas P. DiNapoli. Overall, local collections totaled $1.7 billion, up $242 million from May of last year. Every county also experienced double-digit growth in collections, at least partially due to recent high inflation, including soaring gas prices. Yates County saw the largest increase at 34.8% in May. Among cities that impose their own general sales tax, the City of Oneida came in at the highest at 30.9%.

The Otsego County Sheriff's Office arrested 41 year old Dezarae Yother of Morris after an investigation into a disabled vehicle in Pittsfield. Yother allegedly forged and attempted to use a stolen check to pay for services in Morris. Yother faces charges of forgery, Possession of a Forged Instrument, Possession of Stolen Property in Morris, and Inadequate Exhaust, Unsafe Tire, Improper Plates, Unregistered Motor Vehicle, Uninspected Motor Vehicle, and Operating without Insurance in Pittsfield.

The State Health Department reports that the decline in COVID 19 cases is continuing. Statewide 7-Day Average positivity rate is Lowest Since mid -April at 5.4%, Statewide Hospitalizations were below 2000 to 1,938, down from a recent peak of 2724 in Mid May. there were 38 deaths reported over the weekend in Hospitals & nursing homes.

The Greater Oneonta Historical Society Walking Tour Series kicks off tonight, as Oneonta natives Liz Rowley Morley and Art Torrey lead their tour of Main Street in the late 1960s. This tour coincides with the opening of Remembering Oneonta in the 1960s this weekend, Society Executive Director Dr. Marcela Micucci explains:

(Marcela Micucci 6-15-22)

The tour will meet at 7pm at the History Center at 183 Main Street in Oneonta, more details are available at oneontahistory.org or their Facebook events page.

A.M. NEWS Wednesday 6-15-22

35 year old Tadd Sherwood of Oneonta has been arrested after he allegedly pointed a gun at a victim during a dispute and fired a shot in the victim’s direction. Sherwood was charged with criminal possession of a loaded firearm, menacing, and criminal possession of a weapon, Sherwood is a convicted felon & is not legally allowed to possess weapons, he is being held in the Otsego County Jail pending future court action.

State Police arrested 6 people, for allegedly possessing guns and illegal magazines that are not compliant with the New York SAFE Act. Troopers initiated a traffic stop on Upper Front Street in the town of Chenango, they arrested 39 year old Jeffrey Everetts of Sayre, Pennsylvania & 32 year old Nephrem Holt of Albany for Criminal Possession of a Weapon, another traffic stop on Upper Front Street in the town of Chenango resulted in the arrest of 4 men from Pennsylvania, 56 year old Robert Applegate II, 31 year old Robert Applegate III, 28 year old Glen Applegate, & 29 year old Trevor Sweigart, All 6 were arraigned and were remanded to the Broome County Jail without bail.

4 people were injured & 2 pets were killed in a house fire at 127 Walnut Street in Binghamton early this morning. The cause of the fire is under investigation.

Delaware County Public Health will hold a Free Rabies Vaccination Clinic For dogs, cats and ferrets today from 4:45 to 6:45 PM, at the Franklin Fire Hall. More information is available at 607-832-5200 or delawarecountypublichealth.com.

The CDO Workforce Development Board, BOCES, SUNY Delhi, & the State Department of Labor, among other organizations, will hold 2 free apprenticeship round-table events, one today & another tomorrow. Today's round table will take place at the ONC BOCES in Milford, tomorrow's round table will take place at SUNY Delhi.  Both events will take place from 9:00am to 11:00am.

An American Red Cross Blood Drive is being held today in Downsville from 9:00 AM to 2:00 PM at the Downsville Fire Department on State Highway 30. To schedule an appointment to donate, download the Red Cross Blood Donor App, visit RedCrossBlood.org or call 1-800-Red CROSS.

P.M. NEWS THURSDAY 6-9-22

Plans are going forward regarding the Norwich Downtown Boutique Hotel project on South Broad Street, Commerce Chenango President & CEO Kerri Green visited WCDO Today & gave an update regarding the timeline:

(Kerri Green 6-9-22)

Green also said that a 6th meeting of the Norwich DRI Local Planning Committee will be held on Tuesday, at 3:00 PM in the Community Room of Commerce Chenango at 15 South Broad Street in Norwich, to continue the Committee's discussion and review of potential projects for inclusion in Norwich’s Strategic Investment Plan. This meeting is open to all members of the public, with time reserved at the end of the meeting for public comment. The meeting will also be available on ZOOM.

The Raymond Corporation is celebrating their 100th Anniversary this month, President & CEO Michael Field told WCDO News about the origins of the company:

(Michael Field 6-9-22)

Field Said that they will have a celebration next Tuesday which will feature the unveiling of their 100th Anniversary Exhibit, which will tour the County, Country & even into Mexico in the coming year. Field said that Raymond is also looking to hire more people, more information can be found at Raymondcorp.com.

The Oneonta Fire Department responded to a truck fire on Grand Street Wednesday Afternoon. The engine was fully engulfed when firefighters arrived, the driver escaped without injury, there were no injuries among firefighters reported.

The New York City Department of Environmental Protection announced today that they are not in a position to shutdown the Delaware Aqueduct this fall as originally planned. The schedule is now planned for October 1, 2023 through May 31, 2024, the new timeline will ensure that the DEP completes and tests new system configurations and that outside communities are also prepared for the shutdown.

Southern Tier 8 is holding the first-ever Upstate Rural Broadband Conference, on June 28th at the Doubletree by Hilton Hotel in Binghamton. The daylong conference will bring national and state, and regional leaders together to identify actionable ways to speed-up the deployment of high-speed networks. Over 20 speakers from Washington, Albany, and the region will discuss how to get networks built, whom to partner with, how to fund high-speed broadband expansion, and the advocacy efforts needed to make it all happen. For more information, please visit southerntier8.org.

A.M. NEWS THURSDAY 6-9-22

The Oneonta Police Department is seeking public help in the murder on May 30th of 24 year old Kaleb O'Neill of Oneonta. O’Neill was found with stab wounds in the alley near 6 Dietz Street, he was declared dead after being transported to A.O. Fox Hospital. Anyone with additional information on the investigation is asked to contact the Oneonta Police Department Detective Division at 607-432-1111.

An American Red Cross Blood Drive is being held in Cooperstown today from 1:00 to 5:00 PM at the Otsego County Office of Emergency Services, 140 County Highway 33W. To schedule an appointment to donate, download the Red Cross Blood Donor App, visit RedCrossBlood.org or call 1-800-CROSS (1-800-733-2767).

The Otsego County Department of Health will host a Free Rabies Vaccination Clinic tonight in Unadilla. The clinic will be held in Clifton Park from 6:00 to 8:00 PM, more information is available at 547-4230.

The Village of Sidney announced that the Water service was restored to residents & businesses downtown last night. Superintendent of Public Works Brandon McEwan told WCDO that the Main Street Bridge will remain closed until further notice, as they continue to assess the need for repairs.

P.M. NEWS WEDNESDAY 6-8-22

The Gus Macker Tournament returns to Norwich after a 2 year break due to the COVID 19 pandemic, Co-Organizer Tom Revoir visited the WCDO Studios this morning, and he is looking for volunteers for a variety of roles:

(Tom Revoir 6-8-22)

The Gus Macker Tournament runs from July 8th to the 10th at the Norwich High School Complex this year. The Deadline to register a team is June 20th at Macker.com, Prospective sponsors of volunteer can call the Norwich YMCA at 336-9622 and speak with Revoir or Jamey Mullen.

Sidney Village Officials announced that due to a water main repair, the village is shutting of water in the downtown area through 6:00 PM. The Main Street Bridge is closed for repairs, Chambers & O'Hara announced that their Main Street entrance is closed, but patrons can enter the lot from the driveway on Bridge Street about 200 yards from the Traffic Light.

The Greater Oneonta Historical Society announced that they will open its exhibition, on Saturday, June 18th, entitled “Remembering Oneonta in the 1960's” at the Oneonta History Center at 183 Main Street. The exhibit will explore the decade of the 1960s as one of expansion, modernization, and social and cultural growth in Oneonta, exploring themes like social activism, college life, retail and shopping, sports, local government, & Urban Renewal, More information is available at oneontahistory.org or at the Oneonta History Center pages on Facebook or Instagram.

New York State now has Early Voting, for Delaware County registered voters it will take place at the Board of Elections Office, 3 Gallant Avenue in Delhi. Hours for Early Voting for the June 28th Primaries will start Saturday June 18 & run through Sunday June 26th. The polls for the Primaries for in person voting will be from 6:00 am to 9:00 pm on June 28th, more information is available at 607 832-5321.

32 year old Anthony Schorer of Burlington was sentenced to 10 years probation in Otsego County Court. Schorer pleaded guilty to a 2nd degree criminal sexual act against a child, State Police originally arrested Schorer on January 4th and his brother, 33 year old Timothy Schorer of Hartwick on January 11th, he is due in court on June 24th. The alleged crimes happened between 2003 and 2010, the victim was between the ages of 5 and 11 years old.

A.M. NEWS Wednesday 6-8-22

The State Department of Health today announced the 1st confirmed orthopoxvirus case outside of New York City, following testing at the Wadsworth Lab in Albany. The Sullivan County health department is treating the case as a probable monkeypox case, and contact tracing efforts are underway. The State Health Department 9 confirmed monkeypox cases, including 8 in New York City. For more information on monkeypox, go to health.ny.gov/Monkeypox.

Broome County Transit premiered their new fully electric buses that the county will be transitioning to in the coming months. The Busses are manufactured by Nova Bus of Plattsburgh, Broome County will be the only county in the state to transition to an all-electric public transit system.

Delaware County Public Health Free Rabies Vaccination Clinic For dogs, cats and ferrets Today from 4:00 TO 6:00 PM, at Arkville Fire Hall. For questions or more information call 607-832-5200 or delawarecountypublichealth.com