WCDO Radio News

Minimum Wage employees across the state will see their paycheck go about for the New Year. New York City employees for large companies will see an increase to $15 dollars an hour; Long Island and Westchester County workers will see the minimum wage set at $12 dollars an hour, the rest of the state will see an increase to $11.10 an hour.

The state Department of Health says as of Thursday new cases of flu have been reported in 58 counties, including the five boroughs of New York City. Only Wyoming, Yates, Seneca and Hamilton counties are not reporting any cases yet. Officials say the number of people hospitalized with laboratory-confirmed flu was 363 this past week, a 41 percent increase over the previous week. So far this season more than 1,300 people have been hospitalized with the flu.

Delaware County Sheriff's Office responded to a tractor trailer accident on State Route 10 in the Town of Hamden Thursday Night. 41 year old Shaun Koch of Varysburg was driving a milk tanker on State Highway 10 when he ran off the right side of the roadway and the truck and trailer rolled over onto the side. Koch suffered a head injury and was transported to Delaware Valley Hospital in Walton where he was treated and released. A small quantity of milk was spilled as a result of the accident, the DEC Spill Response Team was notified, Koch was charged with Driving While Intoxicated with a Commercial Vehicle, moving from lane unsafely and criminal possession of a controlled substance, he was arraigned in the Town of Hamden Court and was remanded to the Delaware County Correctional Facility on $2,000 cash bail or $4,000 bond.

The Chenango United Way is in the last days of fundraising for 2019. Spokesperson Elizabeth Monaco comments:

(Elizabeth Monaco 12-28-18)

Monaco said that they are at 91% of their state goals of $419,000 for 2019.

The Fenimore Art Museum of Cooperstown announced that an exhibit of photos from famed photographer Herb Ritts will be displayed their next year. The Ritts exhibit will be on loan from the Rock & Roll hall Of Fame in Cleveland, featuring photos of David Bowie, Tina Turner, Michael Jackson, Paul McCartney, Elton John, Billy Joel, and Madonna. The exhibition opens on April 2nd & will be on display through early September.

Bethel Woods officials announced that the they will host the Music and Culture Festival, Celebrating the 50th Anniversary of the 1969 Woodstock festival at the original site. The 3 day event will be held August 16th to the 18th at Bethel Woods, the line-up & the date of the sale of the ticket will be announced shortly.

State Police & Local Law Enforcement Agencies are participating in the "Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over" campaign again this year, during the Christmas & New Year’s Holiday season. Checkpoints will be established all over the state, last year, police issued over 40,000 tickets from DWI, Speeding, Distracted driving & failing to obey the "Move Over Law", among other infractions

Governor Cuomo announced that temporary lane closures for road and bridge construction projects on New York State highways will be suspended from 6:00 AM tomorrow through 6:00 AM Wednesday, January 2nd, to ease travel during the peak New Year's travel days. Some work may continue behind concrete barriers or for emergency repairs. The New York State Thruway Authority will also continue its 48-year tradition of offering free coffee and hot tea to travelers at all 27 travel plazas along the Thruway from 11:00 PM New Year's Eve through 7:00 AM New Year's morning to promote safe and alert driving.

Delaware County Sheriff’s Deputies arrested 32-year-old Jamison Galietta of Hancock, for Tampering with Physical Evidence, Criminal Mischief, Menacing, Criminal possession of weapon, Criminal obstruction of breathing, and Harassment, following an investigation into a domestic dispute at his residence. Galietta was arraigned in the Town of Hancock Court and later remanded to the Delaware County Correctional Faculty on $25,000 cash bail pending action in the Town of Hancock Court at a later date.

The Johnson City Police Department arrested 26-year-old Tyler DeCamp of Deposit as the 5th person involved in the stabbing of 2 men at a Johnson City McDonalds last week. Decamp was charged with 2 counts of attempted murder, he is accused of stabbing both victims. He was taken into custody in Johnson City Thursday, 4 others were already charged in connection with the incident Monday. Decamp was being held at the Johnson City Police Department pending arraignment.

Police in Vestal announced that they are seeking 87 year old Charles McGlynn of Vestal, as a missing vulnerable adult. McGlynn suffers from dementia, and may require medical attention, he was last seen Tuesday afternoon at about 3:00PM on Hazel Drive in Vestal, he may be driving a 2009 grey Honda Civic with license plate number ANW-2161, he is described as a white male, 6'1", about 150 pounds, with white hair & a mustache, and blue eyes & wears glasses, he was wearing a white shirt, blue jeans and a blue jacket. Anyone with information is asked to call Vestal Police at 786-7600 or 911.

State Police and the American Red Cross are Co-hosting the 5th annual State Trooper Christopher Skinner Memorial Blood Drive in Kirkwood today. Trooper Skinner was intentionally run down by Almond Upton while he was conducting a traffic stop on I-81 in 2014, a blood drive has been held in Skinner's memory every year since his death. The blood drive today runs from 12:00 Noon until 6:00 PM at the 5 Mile Point Fire Company at 16 Crescent Drive in Kirkwood. The blood drive is open to the public as well as those in Law Enforcement, appointments can be made at redcrossblood.org or at 1-800-red cross.

The Delaware County Chamber of Commerce will hold their next Friday Breakfast event in Walton on January 11th. The event will run from 8:30 to 10:00 am at the Castle on the Delaware 139 Stockton Avenue in Walton. The featured speaker is Perry Dewey, Superintendent at DCMO BOCES, who will talk about on-campus, work-ready training programs for graduating high school seniors and how Delaware County's educational leaders are collaborating with the business community. More information is available at delawarecounty.org.

Former Broome County Family Court Judge Rick Miller has had a lawsuit filed against him by 2 former employees in his office of sexual harassment. The lawsuit claims that Miller subjected the employees to harassing and abusive behavior at least 50 times between 2015 and June of 2017. Miller was removed from the bench in 2016.

Now that Christmas has passed, chenango County residents may wonder how they shoudl dispose of their trees this year. Dustin Hendricks of Chenango County DPW Explains:

(Dustin Hendricks 12-26-18)

Chenango County has 3 solid waste and recycling facilities operated by the Department of Public Works, the Pharsalia Landfill, plus 2 Transfer Stations, 1 in the Town of North Norwich and the other near Brisben.

4 Deposit men have been arrested in connection with a stabbing at the McDonald's on Main Street in Johnson City on December 20th. 2 men were taken to Wilson Hospital with stab wounds, Arrested for 2 counts each of gang assault were 22 year old Dane Edwards, 33 year old Jay Moore, 24 year old Travis Dise & 31 year old Christopher Nugent of Deposit, they were taken into custody without incident and will appear in court at a later date; additional arrests are expected.

Illegally manufactured fentanyl was the driving force behind a 45.2% increase in deaths involving synthetic opioids from 2016 to 2017, according to a new report by the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. In all, there were 70,237 drug overdose deaths in 2017. Opioids were involved in 67.8%, or 47,600 of those deaths. Of those opioid-involved overdose deaths, 59.8% of them, or 28,466, were due to synthetic opioids. A separate report from the CDC's National Center for Health Statistics released earlier this month found that in 2016 fentanyl surpassed heroin as the most commonly used drug in overdose deaths in the US.

The state Department of Health announced Thursday that the flu virus is prevalent in New York state. Health care workers, who are not vaccinated, are now required to wear a surgical procedure mask around patients. The department has also launched a flu tracker that allows people to stay up-to-date about flu rates in their county. Department reps say there have been over 3,000 flu cases in the state so far this season

The Otsego County Chamber of Commerce will hold their annual State of The State Breakfast on January 2nd at the SUNY Oneonta Otsego Grille in the Morris Conference Center. The event will begin at 8:30, State Senator Jim Seward & Oneonta Mayor Gary Herzig will be among the guest speakers.

The City of Oneonta Department of Public Service will be replacing a water main valve located on West Ann Street today. Work is to take place starting at 8am with water outages to begin at 9am. Residents on West Ann, Baker, London, Wilcox, and River Street (between Ann and Wilcox) will be without water for the duration of the project. West Ann St will be closed to traffic for the duration of work. Drivers on West Ann Street are advised to move vehicles from driveways prior to 8am. More information is available at 432-2100

Delaware County Sheriff's Deputies responded Wednesday to an accident on State Highway 28 in the Town of Middletown. 46 year old Luke Dougherty of Bovina hit an icy patch on the roadway and lost control of his vehicle, crossed into the southbound lane and struck an on-coming Delaware County Public Health vehicle driven by 50 year old Melissa Thomas of Masonville. The Dougherty vehicle then continued off the roadway where it struck and damaged an unoccupied, parked vehicle and other equipment parked in a driveway. Dougherty and Thomas were transported to O’Connor Hospital in Delhi; Dougherty was ticketed for failure to keep right and will appear in the Town of Middletown Court at a later date.

The New York State Appellate Court denied the appeal of John Guzy of Bainbridge, for the road rage murder of 26 year old Derek Prindle of Afton, in a 2014 road rage incident on State Route 7 between Sidney & Bainbridge. Guzy was sentenced to 40 years to life in prison, which has been upheld by Thursday’s court decision.

Governor Cuomo today announced that temporary lane closures for road and bridge construction projects on New York State highways will be suspended during peak holiday travel times over the next two weekends. All road construction work behind temporary lane closures stopped earlier this morning & will remain in effect until 6:00 AM Wednesday Morning. Construction will also be suspended from 6:00 AM Saturday, December 29th through 6:00 AM Wednesday, January 2nd. Some work may continue behind concrete barriers or for emergency repairs.

State DOT Officials announced the completion of the project to pave and repair a portion of State Route 10 in the town of Walton. The 1-mile project which stretched from a parking area outside the village of Walton and proceeds east, Construction addressed a 2,000-foot-long curve by increasing the road elevation on the outside of the curve, which reduces the chance of vehicles drifting over the center line and causing crashes & the slope near the parking area was flattened, creating better sight distance for cars pulling out of the lot.

State Senator Fred Akshar released the results of a recent online survey posted gauging constituents on legislation that would require anyone applying for or renewing a pistol permit license to consent to having their social media accounts and search engine history of the past 1-3 years reviewed and investigated by police as part of the mandatory background check. Within the 52nd Senate District, 79% of respondents opposed the proposal, 21% supported it; Outside of the 52nd Senate District, New York respondents opposed the measure 97% to 3%. Akshar plans on introducing or cosponsoring several bills to help address gun violence and mental health issues that are connected to the recent mass shooting tragedies.

State Senator Jim Seward announced that he has been appointed by State Senate Republican Leader John Flanagan to serve as the ranking member of the Senate Finance Committee. The Senate Finance Committee is the second most influential panel in the senate – tasked with conducting public hearings on the governor's budget proposal and guiding development of the final plan. In addition, the finance committee is responsible for reviewing nominations sent by the governor for appointments, and moving the nominations to the full senate.

State Police & Local Law Enforcement Agencies are participating in the "Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over" campaign again this year, during the Christmas & New Year’s Holiday season. Checkpoints will be established all over the state, last year, police issued over 40,000 tickets from DWI, Speeding, Distracted driving & failing to obey the "Move Over Law", among other infractions

The 27th Annual Sidney Alumni Basketball Association “Alumni Night’ will be held tonight at the Sidney High School gym. Proceeds to the event go to fund the Association’s Scholarship each June for a graduating Sidney basketball player. Older players are invited to play in the 6:00 pm opener, the “young guns” game will follow at about 7:15. More information is available at 643-5728, or at the Sidney Alumni Basketball Facebook page.

State Police released the names of the people involved in a 2-car Head-On crash in the Town of Columbus Saturday. 27 year old Bradley Prosser of Sherburne was the driver of the first vehicle that crossed into the opposing lane and crashed head on into a 2nd vehicle. Prosser was pronounced dead at the scene, he had a .23 BAC according to the autopsy report. Prosser’s passenger, 26 year old Tasha Carney of Edmeston suffered minor injuries from the crash. The driver of the 2nd vehicle was 46 year old Shannon Donnelly-Travis of Schuyler Lake; she was airlifted to Upstate Medical Center in Syracuse, for a fractured arm and leg.

State Senator Fred Akshar continued the 2nd year of his "Akshar's All-Stars" student recognition program on Tuesday by recognizing students at 4 school districts. At the Harpursville High School, Akshar recognized senior Colin LaDue for his leadership, dedication and many contributions to his school and community. At the Afton High School, Akshar recognized sophomore Logan Ives for her selfless devotion to charity and giving back to others in need. At Bainbridge-Guilford High School, Akshar recognized senior Tannar Cliffe for his kindness and dependability both in and out of school. At DCMO BOCES in Norwich, Akshar recognized senior Destin Foley for his energy and dedication to both his academic studies and to helping others in the classroom.

Firefighters from Sherburne & 2 other local departments responded to a fire at Crandall's Auto on Blanding Road in Sherburne last night at about 8:30 PM. No injuries were reported, the building was completely destroyed; investigators are trying to determine how that fire started.

The Chenango Arts Council's 2019 Grants for Teachers application deadline has been extended until this Friday, December 21st. The Program provides up to $500 to K-12 teachers in Chenango County who find innovative ways to integrate the arts into the regular school curriculum through projects that are not covered by the school budget. Teachers currently employed by a public or private school in Chenango County are eligible to apply; more information is available at chenangoarts.org/grants/grants-for-teachers. Awards will be made in February 2019.

A Free Christmas Dinner will be available in Sidney this year on Christmas Day at the Sidney Fire Station, organizer Gene Schmidt comments:

(Gene Schmidt 12-19-18)

More information about the free Christmas day Dinner is available at 607-610-4030; this year will be the 6th year that Schmidt & his family have offered the free Christmas dinner.

Lieutenant Governor Kathy Hochul will tour several area business today. Hochul will Tour Amphenol Aerospace in Sidney this morning at 9:15, Corning Incorporated in Oneonta, at 10:30, and then at 1:30 this afternoon she will tour Chobani in New Berlin.

Otsego County Chamber of Commerce will host the state Mandated Anti-Harassment Policies and Sexual Harassment Training today, from 8:30 to 10:00 AM. New York State mandates ALL employers to adopt a sexual harassment prevention policy as well as to train ALL employees on sexual harassment prevention. The Seminar will be held at the Otsego County Chamber/Otsego Now Offices at 189 Main Street on the 5th floor, in Oneonta.

Governor Cuomo announced his agenda for the 1st 100 days of 2019 on Monday. Among the items on his agenda: adopting a Progressive Tax System, Cut Middle Class Taxes, Protecting Affordable Health Care, Gender Equality, Combat Gun Violence, ensure Clean, Safe Drinking Water, Pass the Child Victims Act & Legalize Adult Use of Recreational Marijuana.

Delaware County Sheriff’s Deputies arrested 40 year old Brenna Talbot of Walton for Aggravated Unlicensed Operation 3rd degree following a traffic stop on County Highway 21 in the Town of Franklin. Talbot was additionally charged with unlicensed operator, operating without a headlight. She was released on tickets returnable to Franklin Town Court at a later date.

State Police continue to investigate tips that will help locate the person or persons responsible for throwing 2 beagle mix dogs out of a moving vehicle on Wednesday, December 12th on I-81 in Marathon. Several local, state and national animal welfare agencies and private donors are now offering a total of $16, 500 reward leading to the conviction of the person(s) responsible after the case has gained national attention. The following agencies have contributed: the Animal Legal Defense Fund $10,000, People for Ethical Treatment of Animals $5,000, the New York State Humane Association $1,000 and a private donation $500. Anyone with information about the suspect(s) is asked to call SP Homer at (607)749-1614.

Governor Cuomo today announced that more than $763 million in economic and community development funding has been awarded through Round 8 of the Regional Economic Development Council initiative. Locally, the Southern Tier RDC, which covers Delaware & Broome Counties, will get 65.4 Million dollars for various projects, Central New York, which includes Chenango County, receives 88.2 million dollars, and the Mohawk Valley region, which includes Otsego County, receives in 85.4 Million dollars.

NY State of Health announced that enrollment reached 4.7 million at close of business on December 15th, the deadline for January 1st 2019 coverage. Enrollment volumes in Qualified Health Plans and the Essential Plan outpaced last year’s levels with over 83,000 more people enrolled compared to last year.

In 2018, The Raymond Corporation contributed to over 150 nonprofit and educational organizations with monetary contributions, forklift donations and voluntary participation. Raymond gave food donations to the local food pantries, supported causes ranging from cancer awareness, veterans rehabilitation and animal rescue, & Raymond and its employees supported such programs as the American Red Cross, Habitat for Humanity, Breast Cancer Awareness, & Big Brothers and Big Sisters. More information is available at raymondcorp.com.

Charter Spectrum will pay a record $174 million and refund customers in New York $62 million in a settlement over claims it defrauded internet subscribers. The settlement announced Tuesday by the State Attorney General's Office is the largest consumer payment by an internet provider in U.S. history. Charter Spectrum has agreed to provide some premium cable channels for free to customers as part of the deal, customers will each receive between $75 and $150, and they will also get streaming services and premium channels, with a retail value of over $100 million, at no charge for about 2.2 million active subscribers.

The Oneonta Common Council will hold their next regular meeting this evening at 7:00 PM at City Hall. A Public hearing will be held regarding Sewers another will be held regarding fire prevention, the meeting is open to the public.

Emergency crews responded to a Tractor Trailer fire at about 12:00 Noon today. The fire was knocked down quickly & the westbound lanes of I-88 were re-opned quickly, WCDO news will have further details as they become available.

The Binghamton Devils donated over six barrels of non-perishable food to CHOW today with the help of team captain, Kevin Rooney. The food was collected from fans during the Put the Biscuit in the Basket food drive from November 28 to December 15, 2018. Totaling 1,415 pounds, the provisions will help feed Broome County families in need this holiday season.

Senator Fred Akshar will continue the second year of his district-wide "Akshar's All-Stars" student recognition program on Tuesday by recognizing students at one Broome County school and three Chenango County schools. Each month, Senator Akshar recognizes local students selected by their school districts in the 52nd Senate District who have shown great leadership, compassion, school spirit or improvement amongst their peers. Senator Akshar will make presentations starting at 8:00 AM at the Harpursville High School, then at 9:00 AM at Afton High School, 11:00 AM at Bainbridge-Guilford High School and and at 1:15 pm at the DCMO BOCES Campus in Norwich.

Oneonta Police arrested 28 year old David Thomas of Oneonta for attempted Murder, Assault and Strangulation, following a domestic dispute. Police accuse Thomas of twisting the unidentified woman's neck “in a violent manner,” causing extensive damage, she was transported to Fox Hospital & was transferred to Bassett Hospital in Cooperstown where she required surgery.

State Police are seeking the public’s assistance locating the people responsible for throwing 2 dogs out of an SUV on I-81 Wednesday. Troopers patrolling I-81 in the Whitney Point area spotted a tractor trailer parked in the left lane, Wednesday morning, they observed the truck driver carrying one badly injured dog and another following behind him. A State Police K9 handler bandaged the injured dog to stop bleeding, the Broome County Humane Society was contacted and took possession of the dogs. The truck driver observed a Dodge Durango SUV slow down, roll down their rear window and throw the dogs out of the window. Anyone with information is asked to call State Police at 749-1614.

The Salvation Army Empire State Division provided nearly 4 million meals to individuals and families who needed it most, through last year’s Annual Red Kettle Campaign. This year, with just 10 ringing days left in this year’s campaign, the kettles are trending short of the statewide goal. Volunteer bell ringers are needed throughout The Salvation Army's 48-county region. An hour of bellringing yields enough money in the kettle to provide thirteen meals. Anyone interested in ringing the bell is invited to visit: http://bit.ly/beabellringer to sign up.

The New York State Department of Health is advising parents/guardians, caregivers and health care providers to be aware of the signs and symptoms of enterovirus EV-D68, which has now been confirmed in 39 children in New York State. EV-D68 can cause mild to severe respiratory illness, or no symptoms at all. EV-D68 infection most commonly results in mild symptoms such as runny nose, sneezing, cough, body aches and muscle aches. Severe symptoms, may include wheezing and difficulty breathing. Recent cases in NYS have been confirmed among individuals who reside in Western and Central New York, the Capital Region and Long Island, and specimens have been received from other regions for specialized testing at Wadsworth. More information about enterovirus EV-D68 can be found cdc.gov.

Tickets are still available for this Sunday's 2 performances of "The King & I" at the Forum Theater in Binghamton. Shows will begin at 3:00 PM & &;30 PM Sunday, Tickets are available through Ticketmaster.com.

A.M. NEWS Friday 12-15-18

18 Year Old Gunnar Hassard of Oneonta has been arrested and charged with a hate crime after allegedly posting pro-Nazi posters around the SUNY Purchase campus, where he was a freshman. Hassard is accused of hanging 16 posters containing Nazi imagery, swastikas and images of Adolph Hitler; he was arraigned in Harrison Town Court yesterday and charged with Aggravated Harassment in the First Degree, a class E felony.

The Department of Environmental Protection announced plans to build a $34 million hydroelectric facility at Cannonsville Reservoir, which should produce enough electricity to power more than 3,500 homes each year. DEP officials announced that they will host 2 public meetings today, 1 at 9:00 AM at the Deposit State Theater, at 148 Front Street in Deposit & another at 12:30 PM at the Upper Delaware Council office, 211 Bridge Street in Narrowsburg. More information is available at nyc.gov.

The Sidney American Legion will host their Annual Children's Christmas Party tomorrow, spokesman Larry Halbert explains:

(Larry Halbert 12-14-18)

The event will run from 12:00 Noon until 1:30 PM at the American legion tomorrow at 22 Union Street in Sidney.

Officials with Dick’s Sporting Goods Open announced that Keith Urban will be the concert performer on August 16th in Endicott. Tickets for that show will be available today through Ticketmaster.com.

The American Red Cross is hosting a blood drive in Sidney Saturday, from 8:00 AM to 1:00 PM at the Sidney Elks Lodge, at 104 River Street. Blood donors of all blood types, especially type O, are needed; appointment can be made at RedCrossBlood.org or by calling 1-800-RED CROSS.

Delaware County Sheriff’s Office’s Criminal Investigation Division arrested 32 year-old Andrew Baker and 26-year-old Terry Linen Jr. for possessing contraband while incarcerated in the Delaware County Correctional Facility. It is alleged that Baker possessed tobacco while in custody, and was charged with Promoting Prison Contraband, Linen was found to be in possession of a disposable lighter which he had hidden inside his person. Linen was charged with Promoting Prison Contraband. Both Linen and Baker will appear in the Town of Delhi Court to answer these charges.

NY State of Health announced in the first 4 weeks of the 2019 open enrollment period, enrollment is outpacing last year, with more than 930,000 consumers enrolled or renewed coverage in a Qualified Health Plan or the Essential Plan for 2019. Consumers must enroll or renew by December 15, for coverage beginning January 1, 2019. More information on enrollment eligibility or to enroll in a health plan is available at nystateofhealth.ny.gov, at 1-855-355-5777, or by contacting an enrollment assistor.

Governor Cuomo announced more than $9 million in federal funding has been secured to expand opioid addiction treatment services across the state. This funding includes $5.7 million to expand access to medication assisted treatment, $2.1 million to develop new recovery centers in areas of high need, and over $1.3 million for specialized treatment and recovery programs. These initiatives are being funded through the State Opioid Response Grant, which is administered by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration. New Yorkers struggling with an addiction can find help by calling 1-877-8-HOPENY.

Governor Cuomo & area leaders announced the start of construction on the $20.5 million Canal Plaza with 48 apartments and new commercial space to Binghamton's North Side. The project will transform and revitalize land that is currently a brownfield; it will include 3 commercial suites totaling about 15,000 square feet, 1 of which will be occupied by Catholic Charities of Broome County for the operation of Encompass Health Home, which will deliver assistance to Medicaid-eligible adults and children with chronic medical and/ or behavioral health conditions. The project will be partially funded with $1.1 million in Community Development Block Grant - Disaster Recovery funding from the Governor's Office of Storm Recovery.

Delaware County Sheriff’s Deputies arrested 28 year old Kristin Shoulars of Milton, after she was stopped for Traffic violations on State Highway 17 in the Town of Hancock. During the stop, it was found that her privileges to operate a motor vehicle were suspended, a search of the vehicle revealed that she was in possession of several controlled substances. Shoulars was charged with Aggravated Unlicensed Operation, 4 counts of Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance, she was arraigned in the Village of Hancock Court where she was remanded to the Delaware County Correctional Facility in lieu of $1,000 cash bail or $2,000 secured bond.

Delaware County supervisors released their preliminary, proposed 2019 budget to the public on Wednesday, November 14 which reflects a 1.5602 % increase from the 2018 budget. There will be a public hearing on the proposed 2019 budget, at the next Board of Supervisors meeting Today at 1:00 PM at the Charles Cook County Office Building at 111 Main Street, Delhi.

Some individuals on Medicaid receiving treatment for opioid use disorder might have received opioid prescriptions outside of their treatment programs, according to an audit issued by State Comptroller Tom DiNapoli. Auditors examined state Department of Health records from 2013 to Sept. 3th 2017 and identified 18,786 Medicaid recipients who received 208,198 prescriptions for opioids through Medicaid while also receiving opioids such as methadone, as part of a treatment program for opioid use disorder. DiNapoli recommended the Department of Health develop a report that can be used to notify treatment programs when I-STOP indicates recipients are receiving dangerous prescriptions; & to take steps to ensure Medicaid managed care organizations require reviews prior to dispensing opioids to recipients with opioid use disorder. The report is available at osc.state.ny.us/audits.

Delaware County Sheriff’s Deputies arrested 24 year old Kyle Gardner of Franklin for DWI, & Driving with a blood alcohol content of 0.08% or higher, following a 1-car accident in the Town of Franklin, where the vehicle was found to have travelled over an embankment. Gardner was subsequently released on an appearance ticket and scheduled to appear before the Town of Franklin Court at a later date.

Delaware County Sheriff’s Deputies arrested and charged 30 year old Stephen Tanner of Deposit for Criminal Contempt for allegedly violating of an order of protection issued by the Delaware County Family Court. Tanner was arraigned at the Village of Deposit Court, where he was later remanded to the Delaware County Correctional Faculty in lieu of $1,000 cash bail or $2,000 secured bond. Tanner is set to appear in the Village of Deposit Court at a later date.

NY State of Health announced that Qualified Health Plan enrollees can begin renewing their coverage for 2019 starting today. Consumers must enroll or renew by December 15, 2018 for coverage beginning January 1, 2019. Renewal notices have been sent to more than 500,000 households with current NY State of Health coverage with information about their 2019 eligibility, health plan options, and costs. More information is available at nystateofhealth.ny.gov or 1-855-355-5777.

Delaware County Sheriff’s Deputies arrested 39 year old Michael Allen of Delhi with disseminating indecent material to minors and endangering the welfare of a child. Allen is accused of electronically sending pornographic material to a minor. Allen was arraigned at the Town of Delhi Court, where he was later remanded to the Delaware County Correctional Faculty in lieu of $5,000 cash bail. Allen is set to appear in the Town of Delhi Court at a later date for further court proceedings.

ACCO Brand employees rallied together for the Sidney United Way campaign this year, with 250 employees taking part in this year’s fundraiser. The donations will help local charities such as the Sidney Emergency Squad, Local Girl and Boy Scout Troops, Delaware Valley Humane Society, Tri-County Senior Center, American Red Cross, Local Food Banks, Catholic Charities and many others. the fall 2018 campaign raised and donated more than $25,000 to help support the work of the Sidney United Way.

The Delaware County Board of Supervisors has proposed a 103 Million dollar budget proposal for fiscal year 2019 this week. The plan calls for a Property tax increase of about 1.56%. A public meeting will be held on the budget at the next board meeting on November 28 at 1:00 PM in Delhi.

Delaware County Sheriff Deputies’ responded to a physical domestic dispute on Dry Brook Rd in the Town of Tompkins in August, upon completion of the investigation 65 year old Gerald Brundege of Tompkins was arrested for Harassment, 53 year old Mary Brundege of North Branch, NY was arrested for Harassment, she was released on a Criminal Summons. 64 year old Erpherd Brundege was arrested on an Arrest Warrant issued by the Town of Tompkins Court for Harassment, Reckless Endangerment & Assault; he was arraigned in the Village of Walton Court and released on his own recognizances. All parties are to appear in the Town of Tompkins Court at a later date to answer the said charges.

The State Department of Health announced that it has issued the 2nd 2-year report on the Medical Use of Marijuana Under the Compassionate Care Act. The report recommends changes to increase patient access, which includes allowing practitioners to certify patients who previously did not qualify for medical marijuana; permitting all practitioners who can prescribe controlled substances to people to become registered providers; and initiating a pilot study to assess the cost-benefits of health insurance coverage. More information is available at health.ny.gov/regulations/medical_marijuana/.

The 2018 Women’s Health Series continues today in Norwich. RN Judith Samsel will discuss Diabetes at the Bohemian Moon at 103 East Main Street in Norwich starting at 7:00 PM; more information is available at 337-4183.

Delaware County Sheriff’s Deputies arrested 44 year old Patricia McNeilly of Franklin for Aggravated Unlicensed Operation of a Motor Vehicle in the 3rd Degree, and Operating a Motor Vehicle with a Suspended Registration, and insufficient head lamps. McNeilly was issued appearance tickets for Town of Delhi Court at a later date.

Delaware County Sheriff’s Deputies arrested 36 year old Dara Matthews of Meredith for DWI, Aggravated DWI, & having blood alcohol content greater that 0.18%, & criminal mischief, following an investigation of a domestic incident in the Town of Davenport. Matthews was arraigned at the Town of Davenport Court and was released upon her own recognizance.

State Police Responded to an apparent Murder Suicide in the town of Stamford Tuesday, after 57 year old Christopher German of South Kortright failed to show up for work in Cooperstown. Troop C BCI Captain Scott Heggelke Explains:

(Capt Scott Heggelke 11-7-18)

Captain Heggelke said that the incident occurred after 9:00 PM Monday; The Delaware County Coroner's Office ordered the bodies removed for autopsies, which were being performed at Lourdes Hospital in Binghamton this afternoon, the official cause and approximate time of death is expected to be in the final Autopsy report, which may be released later today.

State Police arrested 32 year old Jessica Klinegardner of Tompkins for Unlawful Possession of Personal Identification Information, after a complaint by the victim that she noticed suspicious charges on her deceased mother’s credit card. An investigation revealed that Klinegardner was working as a home health aide for the deceased victim; she was issued an appearance ticket to appear in the town of Tompkins Court on December 6th.

New York State of Health announced that its 6th Open Enrollment Period is underway, through January 31st, 2019. New Yorkers who are new to the Marketplace can enroll now and existing customers can renew their health plans starting November 16th. Consumers must enroll or renew by December 15th for coverage effective January 1st. Consumers can call 1-855-355-5777, log onto nystateofhealth.ny.gov or Meet with an in-person assistor.

Delaware County Sheriff Deputies conducted a traffic stop on Andes Road in the Village of Delhi. 21 year old Brittney Barnett of Oakdale was observed traveling at 43 mph in a posted 20 mph School Zone, during dismissal time at Delaware Academy. Deputies detected an odor of marijuana coming from the vehicle, Barnett was charged with Speeding in school zone, obstructed license plate & unlawful possession of marijuana, she was released on an appearance ticket & will to appear in the Town of Delhi Court at a later date.

The Delaware County Chamber of Commerce will hold their 1st Friday Eat & Meet this Friday in Hobart, from 8:30 to 10:00 am at Liberty Rock Books at 678 Main Street. The guest speakers are Paul Van der kruik of the Leatherstocking Council of the Boy Scouts of America and Kimberly Lorraine of the United Way of Delaware and Otsego Counties.

The Delaware County Chamber of Commerce will hold their 1st Friday Eat & Meet this Friday in Hobart, from 8:30 to 10:00 am at Liberty Rock Books at 678 Main Street. The guest speakers are Paul Van der kruik of the Leatherstocking Council of the Boy Scouts of America and Kimberly Lorraine of the United Way of Delaware and Otsego Counties.

The CDC and the State Health Department are urging New York State Residents to get their flu vaccine as soon as possible, as an early flu season has already started. A flu outbreak in 1 Michigan school district led that district to close with students & teachers experiencing a flu outbreak. The FDA has approved a new flu vaccine that will be rushed to the market to try to slow down the latest strain of the flu.

The Delaware Valley Humane Society is looking to gather various items for the Southern New York Pig Rescue of Hornell, that will be picked up by them in Sidney this Wednesday. The humane Society is accepting Hog Pellets, Vegetables, Pumpkins, Pig Milk Replacer, Hay & Straw through Wednesday Morning. More information is available at 563-7780.

The State Health Department announced 5 suspected cases of the Acute Flaccid Myelitis virus in New York. So far, 4 of the cases were reported just outside of New York City and a 5th case in Buffalo, Health officials confirmed 39 cases of EV-D68 in children across the state, which is a virus that is linked to Acute Flaccid Myelitis. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention revealed that they are investigating 155 suspected cases of AFM nationwide.

The State Labor Department announced local unemployment rates today. Statewide, the rate was at 4.1% for September, in Chenango County, unemployment was 3.6%, in Delaware County, 3.9% and in Otsego County, 3.5%.

Delaware County Sheriff’s Deputies arrested 24 year old Frances Thomas of Harpersfield for cruelty to animals; failure to provide proper food and sustenance. Deputies allege that Thomas failed to care for a dog over a period of time, failing to provide it with proper food, water, shelter and veterinary care. Thomas was issued an appearance ticket and is scheduled to appear at the Harpersfield Town Court at a later date.

New York State’s unemployment rate fell to 4.1% in September 2018, reaching its lowest level since June 1988, according to preliminary figures released by the State
Department of Labor. The biggest job gains were in the fields of Educational & Health Services; Leisure & Hospitality & Construction.

The State Office for the Aging reminds seniors that the Medicare open enrollment period is underway until December 7th. Medicare health and prescription drug plans
can make changes each year to costs, coverage, and what providers and pharmacies are in their networks. The open enrollment period is when all people with Medicare
can change their health plans and prescription drug coverage for the following year. More information is available at Medicare.gov or 1-800-MEDICARE.

The Otsego County Health Department announces the release of an iPhone and Android mobile app, which is available as a free download from the app stores. The app
is designed to help Otsego County receive information regarding important health issues, services and programs of the health department; it also includes a calendar of
upcoming clinics and events. More information is available through the Otsego County Department of Health at 547-4231.

Delaware County Sheriff’s Deputies arrested 18-year-old Devon Dority of Hamden for Menacing and Attempted Assault. Dority is accused of attempting to cause physical
injury by throwing a knife at a person during a domestic dispute. Dority was arraigned at Hamden Town Court and was remanded to the Delaware County Jail on $1000
bail. Dority is scheduled to appear at Hamden Town Court at a later date to answer the charges.

Delaware County Sheriff's Department investigators have filed more charges against 29 year old Lacey Benson of Fish's Eddy, for 2 counts of Promoting Prison Contraband. Benson was being booked into the Delaware County Jail on Separate Charges, when she was found to possess a hypodermic syringe with the needle attached, hidden inside her body, later that same day she was found to be in possession of 2 more hypodermic syringes with needles attached, inside the Delaware County Jail. Benson was arraigned & was sent back to the Delaware County jail without bail.

State Police arrested 26 year old Thomas Harris of Unadilla for DWI, Reckless Driving and Harassment Sunday, after a trooper monitoring State Highway 357 observed
Harris driving at about 100 miles an hour. Harris was stopped; his B.A.C was measured at .20%. Harris is also accused of making numerous threats of physical violence
toward troopers and their family members. He was arraigned in the town of Sidney Court and remanded to the Delaware County Jail on $5,000 cash bail or $10,000
property bond.

Delaware County Public Health will hold a Free Rabies Vaccination Clinic For dogs, cats and ferrets today from 6:00 to 8:00 PM at the Delhi Fire Hall, more information is available at 832-5200 or delawarecountypublichealth.com

The Delaware County Sheriff’s Office arrested Mark Tubbs and Angela Huggins both of Sidney, for 1 count each of Unlawful Possession of Marijuana and Endangering the Welfare of a Child. The pair are accused of possessing marijuana in their apartment, where a 9 year old child also resided. The arrests came during the execution of arrest warrants at the Huggins and Tubbs residence by the Delaware County Sheriff’s Office Special Response Team. Both Huggins and Tubbs will appear in the Village of Sidney Court shortly to answer these charges.

Delaware County Sheriff's Department Investigators arrested 35 year old Philip Albergo of Meridale and charged him with Criminal Possession of a Weapon, Unlawfully Dealing With Fireworks and Dangerous Fireworks. Albergo was out on Probation on an unrelated charge, Probation Officers discovered a high capacity ammunition feeding device, which is banned in New York State, they also seized numerous unlawful fireworks. Albergo is being held at the Delaware County Correctional Facility as a Probation Violator, to be arraigned in the Town of Meredith Court on these charges at a later time.

Delaware County Sheriff’s Deputies arrested 39 year old Eric Rossman of Davenport for criminal possession of stolen property, following an investigation into a stolen vehicle in the Town of Harpersfield earlier this year. Deputies encountered Rossman after responding to an accident in the Town of Delhi where he left the scene, they also discovered that Rossman was operating a motor vehicle with a suspended license, which led to several other charges. Rossman was arraigned at the Town of Davenport Court and was remanded to the Delaware County Correctional Facility in lieu of $5,000 cash bail or $10,000 secured bond, he will appear in the Town of Davenport and the Town of Delhi courts at a later date.

Delaware County's Clean Sweep Hazardous Waste disposal days are coming up this week, County Solid Waste Coordinator Sue McIntyre comments:

(Sue McIntyre 10-16-18)

The event will allow for county farms, businesses & residents to get rid of items such as paints, pesticides & other house hold chemicals, plus Pharmaceutical Wastes, Sharps & Syringes.

19th Congressional District Candidates will be debating in Walton on Tonight from 6:30 - 8:30 p.m., at the Walton Theater on Gardiner Place. Congressional candidates who have secured a place on the ballot have been invited, including incumbent John Faso and Democratic challenger Antonio Delgado, Green Party candidate Steven Greenfield and Independent Diane Neal. The debate is co-sponsored by the League of Women Voters, the Delaware County Farm Bureau and the Delaware County Chamber of Commerce.

Due to saturated subgrade conditions, Delaware Avenue in Oneonta will remain closed until further notice. The City's contractor, R.B. Robinson, will leave appropriate signage in place overnight, and will be working to correct this issue today. Businesses on Railroad Avenue will remain accessible at all times through Sand Street or Rose Avenue. More information is available at 432-2100.

New York state’s health care jobs exceeded 1.2 million in 2017, according to a report released today by State Comptroller Tom DiNapoli. Health care employment rose by more than 18 percent over the past decade, more than double the pace of overall employment growth. DiNapoli’s report found the health care industry in New York provided nearly $71 billion in wages, with an average annual wage of $57,200 in 2017. New York ranked 3rd in the nation for its share of health care jobs.

Delaware County Sheriff's Department and State DOT Inspectors conducted a commercial vehicle inspection on State Highway 30 in the Town of Colchester. 3 Inspections were conducted; Deputies issued 17 summonses for various safety violations including unsafe tires, uninspected motor vehicle, unregistered vehicle, loose cargo, spreading debris on the highway, & inadequate brakes. 2 of the vehicles were taken out of service, 1 driver was arrested for a displaying a forged commercial motor vehicle inspection certificate and issued multiple summons returnable to the Town of Colchester Court.

Delaware County Sheriff’s Office Criminal Investigation Division arrested 46 year old Michael Lynch of Sidney following the execution of a search warrant at his County Highway 23, Town of Sidney, and residence. Members of the Criminal Investigation Division, acting on a tip, obtained a search warrant for Lynch's residence, they seized marijuana plants, drying marijuana and a number of rifles and shotguns, Lynch was charged with criminal possession of marijuana & unlawful cultivation of cannabis, he was issued an appearance ticket for Town of Sidney Court at a later date.

The Otsego County Health Department will hold the next Rabies Vaccination clinic tonight in Otego. The clinic will be held at the Otego Fire Department from 6:00 to 8:00 PM. More information is available at 547-4230.

The Broome County Health Department has confirmed 2 cases of the West Nile Virus in recent weeks. Both Patients were hospitalized and both are recovering. Mild cases usually feature a fever, headache, body aches and occasionally skin rash or swollen glands, more serious cases include high fever, neck stiffness, muscle weakness and an altered mental status. Public health officials say the key is to avoid being bitten by mosquitoes, through insect repellent, screens and the elimination of standing water.

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

Long time area attorney Dee Fogarty of Unadilla passed away on September 29th. Calling hours will be held on Saturday, October 13, from 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM followed
by a memorial service at 1:00PM at C.H. Landers Funeral Chapel on Main Street in Sidney. Family has requested that donations may be made in her name to the Catskills
Humane Society in Delhi or the Delaware Valley Humane Society in Sidney.

The Delaware County Board of Elections reminds area residents interested in voting the in the November 6th General Election, need to register by this Friday October 12th, which is the last day to register in person and to postmark a registration form for the November 6th General Election. Registration forms and applications for absentee ballots may be found online at co.delaware.ny.us/departments or by calling 832-5321.

Physician Assistant Alyssa MacIntosh of UHS Women’s Health Center in Norwich will hold a discussion about Breast Cancer & earl y detection in a free presentation today at Bohemian Moon, 103 W. Main Street in Norwich. An optional buffet and cash bar will be available at 6 p.m., with the presentation and discussion to start at 7 p.m. The event is part of UHS Chenango Memorial’s 2018 Women’s Health Series, which will conclude on Monday, November 12 with a discussion on pre-diabetes and diabetes risk factors. More information is available at 337-4183.

Delaware County officials have received the go ahead to put a transmission tower near the Cannonsville Reservoir, as part of their overhaul of the Emergency Services radio communications system. County EMS Coordinator Steve Hood explains:

(Steve Hood 9-26-18)

Hood said that they started updating their system in 2012; this latest development will allow them to fill in a spot that did not have a tower & did not receive optimum service.

Otsego County Chamber of Commerce President and CEO Barbara Ann Heegan has been chosen to participate in a program to develop plans to improve community health. Heegan is one of 10 chamber executives chosen nationwide by the Association of Chamber of Commerce Executives for the Healthy Communities program, Bassett Healthcare Network Dr. Henry Kurban & Heegan will colloborate on plans to promote mental health and prevention of substance abuse & chronic diseases.

The State Department of Labor today released preliminary local area unemployment rates for August 2018. The State’s seasonally adjusted unemployment rate decreased from 4.3% to 4.2% in August 2018. Locally, Chenango County had 3.8% unemployment, Delaware county registered 4.2% & Otsego County 3.9% in August.

Former Focus Otsego operators Joseph Zupnik and Daniel Herman pleaded guilty recently to endangering the welfare of an incompetent or physically disabled person, in connection with an incident in which a 94-year-old resident in the facility was left in a recliner for almost 2 straight days. Zupnik & Herman were ordered to pay a fine of $5,000, the maximum fine for that charge. Zupnik & Herman are no longer associated with the facility, which is under new ownership, and is doing business as "Centers Home Health Care"

Governor Cuomo signed legislation that adds acute pain management to the list of conditions for which medical marijuana can be recommended as an alternative to opioid use. The bill will also allow for substance use disorder treatment providers to recommend medical marijuana to help patients manage underlying pain that contributes to the abuse of substances such as opioids. In order to recommend medical marijuana for pain management, a registered practitioner must determine that the patient's pain degrades health and functional capability, along with certain other requirements.

The Chenango County Department of Health and Area Agency on Aging will be hosting their annual Senior Flu Vaccination Clinic for adults age 60 and over Today, from 9:30 to 11:30 AM at the Norwich Family YMCA. The Chenango County Health Department will administer flu shots, and are available to discuss programs and services. The Norwich Police Department will be doing a drug take back where they will collect any old or unused prescription medications for proper disposal. more information call the Chenango County Health Department at 337-1660.

The 4th Annual Sidney Health Fair will be held at Keith Clark Park in Sidney this Saturday, with a host of activities planned, Spokesperson Gabrielle Argo told WCDO News that many organizations are participating:

(Gabrielle Argo 9-21-18)

The event will run from 10:00 to 2:00 PM at Keith Clark Park in Sidney.

This Saturday, the 23rd annual "Doctors With A Heart" event will be held at Progressive Dental offices at 101 South Broad Street in Norwich, plus at their Kirkwood, Endwell & Montrose Pennsylvania locations. Spokesperson Michelle Parker explains:

(Michelle Parker 9-19-18)

The event will run from 8:00 AM to 12:00 noon, on a first come first served basis, for those with urgent dental needs, who have no money, job, or health care.

A "Free Weekend at Noah’s World" for Delaware County Residents will be held today through Sunday at their 144 Roundhouse Road location in Oneonta. The free weekend is for Delaware County Residents with Children with Special Health Care Needs, who need help in accessing health care professionals and community resources. The event will run
today until 7:00 pm & Saturday and Sunday, from 1:00 to 5:00 PM. More information is available at noahsworld.net or by calling Delaware County Public Health at (607) 832-5200.

19th Congressional District Candidates will be debating in Walton on Tuesday, October 16th from 6:30 - 8:30 p.m., at the historic Walton Theatre on Gardiner Place. Congressional candidates who have secured a place on the ballot have been invited, including incumbent John Faso and challengers Antonio Delgado, Steven Greenfield and Diane Neal. The debate is co-sponsored by the League of Women Voters, the Delaware County Farm Bureau and the Delaware County Chamber of Commerce.

Last Year, Hurricane Maria plowed through Puerto Rico, making public health conditions for the survivors very poor, with a 1 major Hospital being destroyed, and chronically ill patients are still struggling to get the care they need. 4 Members of Bassett Hospital will be going to Puerto Rico Saturday for about a week; Dr. Celeste Johns is one of the 4:

(Dr. Celeste Johns 9-21-18)

Dr. Chris Kjolhede (Coal-Heed), a Bassett pediatrician is also going:

(Dr. Chris Kjolhede 9-21-18)

Along with Drs Johns & Kjolhede, registered nurses Anna Buell & Rachel Gaston from Bassett will make the trip along with 8 other volunteers from around New York State.

DELAWARE COUNTY PUBLIC HEALTH SERVICES announced a "Free Weekend at Noah’s World" for Delaware County Residents, at 144 Roundhouse Road in Oneonta.
The free weekend is for Delaware County Residents through the Children with Special Health Care Needs Program, who need help in accessing various health care
professionals and other community resources. This sponsored weekend will take place this Friday through Sunday, Friday's hours are 11:00 am to 7:00 pm & Saturday
and Sunday, the hours are from 1:00 to 5:00 PM. More information is available at noahsworld.net or by calling Delaware County Public Health at (607) 832-5200.

The 4th Annual Sidney Health Fair will be held at Keith Clark Park in Sidney this Saturday, with a host of activities planned,
Spokesperson Gabrielle Argo explains:

(Gabrielle Argo 9-20-18)

Representatives from Fox Hospital's Tri Town Regional Hospital will participate, along with representatives from Sidney EMS, Catholic Charities, The United Way & the Tri Town Coalition on Substance Abuse Prevention.

The 2018 Campaign Kick Off of the United Way of Delaware & Otsego Counties will be held today in Oneonta. The event will be held from 4:00 to 7:00 PM at the B Side Ballroom & Supper Club in the Clinton Plaza.

The State Department of Health should be doing more to insure that nursing homes are properly inspecting, maintaining and testing their medical equipment, according to an audit released today by State Comptroller Tom DiNapoli. Auditors found that while DOH completes its surveys on time and reports deficient practices to the public, as required, but they only looked at a small number of items in the facilities and could be missing equipment defects. In visits to 36 facilities, auditors found several pieces of poorly maintained equipment, including a transport wheelchair that was covered by rust, mold or mildew, and a suction machine, used to remove airway fluid, covered in dust. The full Audit is available at osc.state.ny.us/audits.

Delaware County Sheriff’s Deputies and Investigators arrested 49 year old Christopher Knipper of Harpersfield for Criminal Possession of Stolen Property and Falsifying Business Records. Knipper is accused of possessing a stolen motor vehicle that he took to a scrap yard where he had claimed ownership of the vehicle. He was arraigned in the Town of Davenport Court and remanded to the Delaware County Correctional Facility on $10,000 cash or $20,000 secured bond.

Delaware County Sheriff’s Deputies arrested 29 year old Shawn Banks of Oneonta for aggravated unlicensed operation of a motor vehicle, following an accident on State Highway 28 in the Town of Meredith. Deputies discovered that Banks had his driving privileges suspended; he was also issued a summons for failure to keep right. Banks was released on tickets and is scheduled to re-appear in the Town of Meredith Court at a later date.

This Saturday, the 23rd annual "Doctors With A Heart" event will be held at Progressive Dental offices at 101 South Broad Street in Norwich, plus at their Kirkwood, Endwell & Montrose Pennsylvania locations. Spokesperson Michelle Parker explains:

(Michelle Parker 9-19-18)

The event will run from 8:00 AM to 12:00 noon, on a first come first served basis, for those with urgent dental needs, who have no money, job, or health care, services will include cleanings, fillings, extractions, fluoride treatments, and x-rays.

The Chenango County Department of Health and Area Agency on Aging will be hosting their annual Senior Flu Vaccination Clinic for adults age 60 and over on Tuesday, September 25th from 9:30 to 11:30 at the Norwich Family YMCA. The Norwich Police Department will be doing a drug take back, they will collect outdated or unused prescription medications for proper disposal, more information about the event is available at 337-1660.

Delaware County Sheriff's Department responded to the report of a man with a shot gun near the Charlotte Valley School Monday. The school was in lockdown while deputies investigated, the man with the shot gun was a hunter in the area behind the Davenport head Start, the lockdown was lifted, and no arrests were made.

Governor Cuomo today requested that the federal government grant a Major Disaster Declaration for 8 counties devastated by flash flooding during severe storms in August. A Declaration would result in financial assistance from the federal government for emergency protective measures, debris removal, and repairs to public buildings and infrastructure. The 8 county request includes Broome, Chenango, & Delaware Counties locallly, after damage estimates exceeded $36 million in infrastructure repair, debris removal and structural damage as a result of these storms. Widespread power outages impacted more than 1,500 homes and businesses in the area, responders rescued and evacuated more than 200 people from campgrounds.

The Otsego County Department of Health reported that a raccoon tested positive for rabies in the town of Milford today. The raccoon was killed by a dog that was not current with rabies vaccination, it will be placed on 6 month quarantine, and there was no known human exposure to the raccoon. This is the 2nd rabies-positive animal in
Otsego County this year, more information about rabies is available at 547-4230, or at otsegocounty.com.

Nearly a year after Hurricane Maria plowed through Puerto Rico, public health conditions are still poor and access to basic health care is limited. Maria was a Category 4 hurricane, a Hospital was destroyed, and chronically ill patients are still struggling to get the care they need. Waterborne and infectious diseases continue to rise, and the mental health crisis Puerto Rico faced before Maria has worsened. 4 representatives will be going to Puerto Rico later this month to assist, according to Nurse Anna Buell:

(Anna Buell 9-12-18)

The Bassett staff will include Buell, Dr. Celeste Johns, chief of Psychiatry; Dr. Chris Kjolhede (Coal-Heed), a pediatrician, and registered nurse Rachel Gaston along with 8 other volunteers from New York State.

Delaware County Public Health will hold a Free Rabies Vaccination Clinic For dogs, cats and ferrets today from 5:00 to 7:00 pm at the Sidney Fire Station on River Street. More information is available at 832-5200 or delawarecountypublichealth.com