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.

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.

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.

The State Health Department reports a steady increase has been continuing in COVID 19 cases, along with many cases of various flu strains. From the period of Saturday through Monday, there were over 48,000 New Yorkers tested for COVID with 4438 positive tests, for an 8% positivety rate. Patient Hospitalization have increased to just under 3800, there were 363 ICU Patients & 153 on Ventilators, there were 94 deaths reported in Hospitals & Nursing homes. The State Health Department urges New Yorkers to get vaccinated & boosted for COVID 19 & to find out about flu vaccine clinics, contact your local health department or visit vaccines.gov/find-vaccines/.

The State Department of Labor announced that the state unemployment rate remained at 4.3% in November. Locally, Chenango & Otsego Counties had 2.7% Unemployment, Delaware County was at 2.9% in November.

The Chenango Arts Council's 2022 Member's Show and Opening Reception was postponed last week due to inclement weather, the event has been moved to tonight starting at 5:30 PM at 27 West Main Street in Norwich.

A.M. NEWS TUESDAY 12-20-22

Delaware County Sheriff’s Deputies received a 911 call reporting a one car motor vehicle accident last Thursday in the Town of Delhi. 45 year old William Smith of Bloomville was found to be operating a motor vehicle in an intoxicated condition, and had been involved in a property damage motor vehicle accident. Smith was charged with Driving While Intoxicated & moving from lane unsafely. He was then released on an appearance ticket for Town of Delhi Court at a later date.

State Police arrested 45 year old James Galarneau of Albany & 43 year old Megan Laprade of Massena, for multiple counts of Petty Larceny, Conspiracy, Criminal Possession of Stolen Property and Scheming to Defraud. The arrests follow the investigations into separate shoplifting complaints from businesses throughout the Capital Region and in Delaware County. The investigation determined Galarneau and Laprade worked together to steal items from businesses over 20 times beginning in June, both were arrested in Rotterdam and transported to 3 State Police troops for processing, they were issued appearance tickets returnable to the Courts on a later date and released.

The State Health Department reported the COVID 19 continues to be a concern, along with influenza variants this winter. Over 65,000 tests were conducted State Wide from Saturday through Monday, with over 4500 positive tests, or 5.3%, Patient hospitalizations are over 3500, with almost 1300 in an ICU bed & 138 on ventilators, there were 98 deaths reported over the 3 day [period.

The Delaware County Chamber of Commerce and Delaware Opportunities will be asking people to donate toys for the annual Toys for Tots Campaign for another week, Chamber President Ray Pucci explains:

(Ray Pucci 12-1-22)

The toys will be picked up from all locations with collection boxes on December 8th, the toys will be distributed to Delaware County Families in Need.

Delaware County Sheriff’s Deputies were dispatched to a trespass complaint in the Town of Davenport last week. 73 year old George Sydlar is accused of cutting his neighbors barbed wire fence that was dividing their 2 properties. Sydlar was arrested and charged with Criminal Mischief. He was released on an appearance ticket and is scheduled to appear in the Town of Davenport Court at a later date.

The Chenango County Health Department is urging everyone six months and older to receive a flu vaccine as cases of influenza rise across the state. Statistics show that the flu season is ramping up early, with flu hospitalizations higher at this point in the season than they have been in a decade. Flu is also spreading at the same time as other respiratory illnesses, including RSV and COVID-19. More information is available at health.ny.gov/flu, or call the Chenango County Health Department at (607) 337-1660.

The State Health Department reports increases in COVID 19 cases Tuesday. Over 81,000 were tests were conducted with 7,110 new positive cases, for a 7.86% positivity rate, Patient Hospitalization increased to 3,293, with more than 300 patients since Friday, there were 288 Patients in an ICU bed & 115 on ventilators, and there were 18 more deaths attributed to the virus Tuesday in Hospitals & nursing homes.

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 Broome County District Attorney’s office announced that 42-year-old David Coffey pleaded guilty to Criminal Possession of a Weapon for having an illegal, loaded .40-caliber pistol in the City of Binghamton on May 25, 2021. Members of the Broome County Special Investigations Unit Task Force, executing a search warrant, found the gun and small amounts of methamphetamine at Coffey’s home on Clifford Street. Coffey had previously been convicted of Assault in Delaware County in 2003, & had previously was charged with Criminal Possession of a Forged Instrument, Petty Larceny and Conspiracy for allegedly trying to cheat a Town of Chenango resident by paying for electronics with counterfeit funds. Coffey will be sentenced to 7 years in State prison plus 5 years post-release supervision in February.

Delaware County Sheriff's Deputies responded Friday to a report of a violation of an Order of Protection in the Town of Deposit. 50 year old Brett Conklin of Walton, allegedly violated an active Order of Protection by entering the residence of the protected party, Deputies located and arrest Conklin for Criminal Contempt, he was released on an Appearance Ticket to appear before the Town of Deposit Court at a later date.

The Rural Health Care Network's "Get-There" program is looking for volunteers to help area residents get to medical appointments, pharmacies & food stores. Drivers will be trained & compensated, more information is available at 855-373-4040.

A.M. NEWS Tuesday 11-29-22

State Police arrested 29 year old Kristofor O’Rourke of Newfield, for Criminal Sexual Act and Official Misconduct. O’Rourke who was last employed by the Tompkins County Sheriff’s Office, was previously employed by the Watkins Glen Police Department, Mt. Morris Police Department, and the Geneseo Police Department. Anyone who may have had inappropriate contact with O’Rourke is urged to call State Police at (585)-398-4100.

State Health Department tested over 39,000 New Yorkers last Thursday & Friday for COVID 19 with over 3,000 positive tests, for a 7.3% positivity rate. Patient Hospitalizations were back up to almost 2900, with 282 ICU patients & around 100 on ventilators, there were 43 more deaths attributed to COVID 19 over the 2 day reporting period.

P.M. NEWS WEDNESDAY 11-23-22

The State Health Department and the Governor's office reminds New Yorkers to get their annual flu vaccine as flu season is widespread across New York State. The flu virus and the COVID virus are both circulating, with the COVID 19 positivity rate still at 6.7% with another 3700 cases documented on Tuesday. Patient Hospitalizations from COVID were at 2,882, and over 620 from the 3 strains of the flu, The state Health department reported that there were 281 ICU COVID patients with 96 on Ventilators & there 31 deaths attributed to COVID on Tuesday. New Yorkers can to get their bivalent COVID-19 vaccine boosters at their local pharmacy, county health department, or healthcare provider; or visit vaccines.gov.

The Delaware County Board of Supervisors unanimously passed the 2023 county budget Tuesday. The budget totals $110 million, a $4 million decrease from the previous budget, The tax increase will be less than 1%.

New Yorkers who are currently enrolled in SNAP will receive additional assistance in the month of November. Officials stated that even if a household is already receiving the maximum allowable benefits, they will receive a supplemental emergency assistance payment of at least $95.00.

A.M. NEWS WEDNESDAY 11-23-22

Delaware County residents hosting Thanksgiving Dinner this year will be able to recycle various items from the table that other municipalities do not, County Solid Waste Coordinator Tyson Robb explains:

(Tyson Robb 11-23-22)

More information is available at co.delaware.ny.us.

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.

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.

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.

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 WEDNESDAY 11-16-22

Delaware County Sheriff's Deputies arrested 30-year-old Michael Vogel of Delhi, back on October 13th, Deputies received a 911 call for a suspicious vehicle located on Hoag Cross Road in the Town of Delhi, they found Vogel, who was found to have operated a motor vehicle with his driving privileges suspended, he was also found to be in possession of a controlled substance and to have an active bench warrant out of the Village of Sidney for failure to appear. Vogel was charged with Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance, Aggravated Unlicensed Operation among other charges, he was released & was ordered to appear in court at a later date.

The Delaware Valley Humane Society will be holding a variety of different fundraisers in the near future, after it was announced that they would not be a participant in the Staff Works Save A Life campaign like they did the last 3 years, Society Director Erin Insinga explains:

(Erin Insinga 11-16-22)

Insinga said that they will have a fundraising event December 4th at Awestruck Ciders in Sidney, they also have a fundraising calendar, more information and other items for sale are available at they Delaware Valley Humane society Facebook Page.

Delaware County Sheriff's Deputies arrested of 41 year old Corey Maraglio of Davenport, on November 7th, Deputies received a complaint from a female reporting that her ex-boyfriend had disconnected the power supply to her residence in an attempt to unlawfully evict her in the Town of Davenport. Maraglio was charged with Unlawful Eviction, he was released on an appearance ticket returnable to the Town of Davenport Court at a later date to answer for said charge.

The CDC announced today that there have been a total of 28,999 cases of Monkey pox nationwide. New York State has 4144 of confirmed cases, about 14.2% of the cases currently. Locally vaccines can be obtained through the Broome & Otsego County Health Departments

Delaware County Sheriff's Office arrested 22 year old Devin Castillo of Walton for Aggravated Unlicensed Operation of a Motor Vehicle, Unlicensed Operator and No license Plate Lamps. Castillo was stopped by Deputies on November 5th, a check of Castillo’s driver’s license revealed that his driving privileges were revoked. Castillo was released and is scheduled to appear in the Town of Colchester Court at a later date.

A.M. NEWS Wednesday 11-16-22

Governor Kathy Hochul today announced that more than $33 million in Community Development Block Grant funding has been awarded to dozens of municipalities for local infrastructure improvement and housing rehabilitation projects. The City of Oneonta will use more than $200,000 in Community Development Block Grant funds to replace 30 water service laterals for low- to moderate-income households.

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.

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.

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.

DELAWARE COUNTY

County Court Judge: John Hubbard (R)

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.

P.M. NEWS TUESDAY 11-8-22

Today is Election Day, all voters in New York State will vote for Governor, Attorney General, Comptroller, plus all seats for the State Senate & State Assembly, one seat in the US Senate & 27 seats for the House of Representatives. Delaware County Voters will vote for County Judge, in the town of Sidney , voters will decide on 1 seat on the Town Board. Polls are open until 9:00 PM.

The State Health Department reported that COVID 19 statistics continue to increase, as the regular flu cases are also widespread. Statistics from November 5th through the 7th showed that 6.84% of those test were positive for the virus, patients hospitalizations are approaching 3000 statewide, with 302 ICU patients and 105 of those were on ventilators. There were 66 more deaths reported in Hospitals & nursing homes over the 3 day reporting period.

Delaware County Sheriff’s Deputies observed a vehicle traveling at 57 mph while in a posted 30 mph speed zone Sunday. Deputies identified the driver as 21 year-old Nicholas Wanamaker of Maybrook, a check of Wanamaker’s driver’s license revealed that his driving privileges were suspended in the State of New York. Deputies arrested Wanamaker for Aggravated Unlicensed Operation of a Motor Vehicle, and Speeding, Wanamaker released and is scheduled to appear in the Town of Colchester Court at a later date,

The New Bivalent COVID-19 BOOSTER Vaccines are now available to anyone 12 and older, to provide protection against currently circulating variants. The Chenango County Health Department is hosting a variety of Bivalent BOOSTER clinics, one will be held at the Afton School today for those who pre-registered on the County website, more information is available at 607-337-1660.

Delaware County Sheriff's Office announced that a man missing from Delaware County was discovered illegally harvesting ginseng in the town of Middletown. The unidentified man was reported missing on August 31st after he failed to return home; an acquaintance found the man’s vehicle on a private logging road in the town of Middletown. The Sheriff’s Office K9 team located the missing person in good health, An Environmental Conservation Office seized the ginseng he was charged with harvesting ginseng without landowner permission, trespassing, and petty larceny.

Delaware County Sheriff’s Deputies received a 911 call regarding a disabled vehicle blocking a portion of the roadway located on Case Hill Road in the Town of Franklin on Ocotber 18th. Deputies interviewed the driver of the vehicle, 52 year of Terri Nocela of Downsville, she was charged with DWI, Felony DWI, Operation of a motor vehicle with a BAC greater than .08%, Operating a motor vehicle without an ignition interlock device, along with other lesser charges, Nocela was arraigned & was released on her own recognizance, she was ordered to appear in the Town of Walton Court at a later date.

The Otsego County Health Department reported that a skunk from the town of Springfield tested positive for rabies Tuesday. Health Department officials said that 1 unvaccinated dog was exposed & was euthanized, 3 people are undergoing post exposure treatment. More information about rabies is available at the health department website at otsegocounty.com, or by calling 547-4230.

The New Bivalent COVID-19 BOOSTER Vaccines are available to anyone 12 and older. The Chenango County Health Department is hosting a variety of Bivalent BOOSTER clinics, one today at the Unadilla Valley School & another at the Afton School on November 3rd. Pre-registration is required on the County Health Department website, for more information call 607-337-1660.

P.M. NEWS MONDAY 10-24-22

The State Health department reports the incidence of COVID 19 cases has remained steady, with the state positivity rate for those tested still slightly over 6%. Patient Hospitalizations have been slowly increasing, up to more than 2800, with almost 300 New Yorkers in an ICU & 116 on Ventilators, a 27% increase over a 7 day period. The total number of deaths in Hospitals & nursing homes is 58, 578 since the pandemic began.

Delaware County Sheriff's Office arrested 25 year old Ryan Decker of Walton Sunday, after Deputies observed a vehicle traveling at 72 miles per hour in a posted 55 mph speed zone. Decker was stopped & a check of his driver’s license revealed that his driving privileges were suspended in the State of New York. Decker was charged with Aggravated Unlicensed Operation of a Motor Vehicle, speeding along with other charges, he was released and is scheduled to appear in the Town of Colchester Court at a later date.

The Grandparent scams are being reported to local law enforcement again, where people call elderly residents, and relay an elaborate scenery in order to get money to bail out a loved one, Delaware county Sheriff Craig DuMond explains:

(Sheriff DuMond 10-18-22)

Sheriff DuMond said that if people get this kind of phone call, they should hang up & should never give out personal banking information to callers they do not know.

The Heavy Metal Haul Out fundraiser by Waste Recovery Enterprises for Delaware Valley Humane Society was a huge success in September, according to society Director Erin Insinga:

Erin Insinga 10-18-22)

Sean LaRose of Waste Recovery enterprises told WCDO News that they enjoy helping out local charitable events:

(Sean LaRose 10-18-22)

LaRose said that the event raised about $300 more than last year.

The State Health Department reminds New Yorkers to get caught up on their flu vaccines & get vaccines & booster to protect against COVID 19. COVID positivity rates were still high statewide at 6.79%, and 9.4% in the Southern Tier. Patient Hospitalization were back up to 2,731, the number of Patients in an ICU was at 274, and Patients on ventilators are still are 92, there weer 25 death attributed to COVID last Friday.

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.

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.

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.

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 TUESDAY 10-11-22

On Sunday, New York State extended the Executive Order to continue to maximize the resources available to protect New Yorkers against polio through vaccination. So far. Only 1 case of polio has been identified, but ongoing wastewater surveillance provides evidence of repeated polio-virus detections in sewage samples throughout the state. The latest wastewater results in Brooklyn & Queens, tested by CDC, found samples genetically linked to the case original case in Rockland County. More information is available at health.ny.gov/polio.

Delaware County Sheriff's Office arrested 40 year old Christopher Lacey of Downsville for Aggravated Unlicensed Operation of a Motor Vehicle, following an investigation into a motor vehicle accident on October 5th on River Road in the Town of Colchester. Deputies reported that the driver left the scene, Walton Police located Lacey, who's driving privileges were revoked for refusing to submit to a chemical test. Lacey was issued an appearance ticket for the Town of Colchester Court at a later date.

Delaware County Sheriff Craig DuMond will continue with the "Coffee With The Sheriff's Office" tomorrow morning in Sidney, he invited area residents to come & talk with members of the Sheriff's Office:

(Sheriff DuMond 10-12-22)

Sheriff DuMond will be at the Trackside Diner on Main Street in Sidney from 9:30 to 10:30 this morning, the next event will be October 19th at the Hancock McDonald's.

P.M. NEWS MONDAY 10-10-22

44 of New York State's 62 counties are already reporting cases of the flu, according to the state Health department. Health officials encourage New Yorkers to get the flu vaccine, with the flu starting a little earlier than normal, and especially as high rates of COVID 19 are still being reported statewide. Southern Tier counties are sill reporting an 8.35% COVID 19 positivity rate, more information about the flu, COVID 19 % other healthcare issues can be found at health.ny.gov.

The State DEC issued an update on drought conditions across the state. The State’s Drought Management Task Force updated the drought status to “Normal” from “Drought Watch” for multiple regions including most of upstate New York because of recent rainfall and higher levels of ground and surface water. The following counties will return to Normal designations: Broome, Chenango, Delaware & Otsego Counties locally.

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.

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.

Delaware County Public Health will hold a Free Rabies Vaccination Clinic for dogs, cats and ferrets today from 6:45PM to 8:45PM at DPW Garage, at 200 Front Street in Deposit. More information is available at 607-832-5200 or delawarecountypublichealth.com.

P.M. NEWS FRIDAY 9-30-22

State Police were dispatched Wednesday to check the welfare of a 34-year-old man at a residence on Savitch Road in the town of Chenango. Troopers made contact with the man, who was suffering from a mental health issue and made threats to harm himself. State Police & other First Responders responded, After hours of tactical negotiations, the man exited his residence and was taken into custody without any injuries. He was evaluated by members of Chenango Ambulance Services and was scheduled to receive a mental health evaluation.

Delaware County Sheriff's Deputies initiated a traffic Stop on September 22nd, in the Town of Middletown. Deputies initially stopped the vehicle and driver for it traveling 77 Miles Per Hour in a posted 55 Mile an hour zone, Steven Mendoza was driving with his driving privileges suspended, he was arrested for Aggravated Unlicensed Operation, Speeding, Unlicensed Operator and Non-Distinctive Plate. Mendoza was released on appearance tickets returnable to the Town of Middletown Court to answer for the charges at a later date.

Delaware County leaders met with federal State & New York City officials on Tuesday, to show that Delaware County is keeping up its end of the bargain regarding the 1995 Watershed Agreement, Watershed Affairs Coordinator Nick Carbone of the Delaware County planning Department told WCDO news about the purpose of calling the meeting:

(Nick Carbone 9-30-22)

Carbone said that negotiations will be ongoing as they have about a 3 year window to reach an agreement on an updated Watershed agreement, they hope that they can slow down the continuing issue of New York City buying up land in Delaware County to protect their water supply.

The Sidney Central School District announced that their Observatory will be open on Friday Night October 14th from 9:00 to 10:00 PM, Weather Permitting. Several Telescopes will be available for viewing, the observatory is located behind the high school.

A.M. NEWS FRIDAY 9-30-22

Delaware County Sheriff's Deputies arrested 2 people Monday following a traffic stop in the Town of Colchester. Deputies observed a vehicle with no taillights on, a traffic stop was conducted & 21-year-old Bushra Turki of Seattle, Washington was driving, the passenger was 26-year-old Mady Sy of the Bronx. Turki's license was suspended, the vehicle had an invalid registration & inspection and did not have insurance. A search of the vehicle was conducted, Deputies located a large quantity of Marijuana and drug paraphernalia. Deputies charged Turki for Operating a Motor Vehicle without an Ignition Interlock Device, Unlicensed Operator, Unregistered Motor Vehicle, Operating without Insurance, along with several other charges, he was released to appear in the Town of Colchester Court at a later date. Sy was charged with 1 count of Unlawful possession of Cannabis.

On May 28th, Delaware County Sheriff’s Deputies were dispatched to a 1 vehicle motor vehicle accident in the Town of Franklin. The investigation revealed that 18 year old William Mettler of Franklin was the driver of the vehicle, he was taken to a hospital, where Deputies secured a blood test to determine Mettler's blood alcohol content, Mettler also had a suspended driver’s license. Last Week, Deputies arrested Mettler for Driving with a BAC of 0.08% or higher, Aggravated Unlicensed Operation of a Motor Vehicle, as well as other traffic violations, he will appear before the Town of Franklin Court at a later date.

Governor Hochul announced plans to expand the availability of funding and resources to support local health departments in hopes of establishing immunization clinics, sending vaccines to health care partners and conducting outreach to unvaccinated New Yorkers in the battle against Polio. Currently, health departments are monitoring wastewater to find the polio virus, they encourage New Yorkers to get vaccinated as soon as possible. Wastewater surveillance results are available at health.ny.gov.

Chenango County is experiencing a 40% increase in cases of Chlamydia and Gonorrhea, with 26 new cases reported in the last month, 18 of the cases were Chlamydia and 7 were Gonorrhea, and 1 was a coinfection. More information about these & other sexually transmitted diseases is available at health.ny.gov, or cdc.gov or by calling the Chenango County Health Department at (607) 337-1660.

A.M. NEWS Thursday 9-29-22

State Police arrested 22 year old Corey Sawyer of Norwich for allegedly stabbing 2 people in Chenango County. Sawyer was charged with 2 counts each of Attempted Murder & 2nd degree Assault and 4 counts of Endangering the Welfare of a Child. Troopers responded Wednesday to a residence on State Route 80 in the town of Otselic just before 1:30 AM, Sawyer is accused of stabbing 2 people with a knife during a domestic dispute, The victims were both taken to Chenango Memorial Hospital then later transported to Wilson Medical Center, with non-life-threatening injuries. 3 children under the age of 17 were at the residence when the incident occurred. Sawyer was transported to Chenango Memorial Hospital due to injuries he sustained prior to Trooper’s arrival. He was treated and released, he was arraigned & was remanded to the Chenango County Jail on $250-thousand cash bail, $500-thousand bond or $1-million partially secured bond. His next court date was set for October 4th.

2 Federal Inmates at the Delaware County Correctional Facility were arrested following an assault within the Delaware County Corrections Facility. On Thursday, September 22nd, members of the Criminal Investigation Division responded to the Correctional Facility, the Investigation revealed that 31-year-old Daquan Dowdell and 45-year-old Rashawn Wynn, both of Syracuse punched another Inmate in the face, which caused the serious physical injury. Wynn and Dowdell each with one count of 2nd degree Assault, they were arraigned and were remanded back to the Delaware County Correctional Facility pending other charges.

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.

Governor Kathy Hochul today announced nearly $7.9 million is being awarded through the Climate Resilient Farming Grant Program to help over 70 farms across the state reduce their environmental footprints and prepare for extreme weather events related to climate change. Locally, in the Southern Tier, a Total Award, of more than $693,000 will distributed, the Delaware Soil & Water Conservation District was awarded $159,160 to assist three farms.

The State Department of Health announced the launch of a dedicated long COVID website, and audio resources, providing a more comprehensive and more accessible destination for the State’s latest information, at health.ny.gov/diseases/long_COVID.

The Delaware County Chamber of Commerce will honor this year's Business Awards in a variety of categories, Chamber President Ray Pucci told WCDO News about the winners:

(Ray Pucci 9-22-22)

The Event begins at 5:30 PM at The Andes Hotel.

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 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.