WCDO Radio News

P.M. NEWS FRIDAY 12-31-21

State Police are asking the public’s help in locating 29-year-old Anthony Masi after an assault in Oneonta. State Police were called to the Budget Inn on State Route 23 Thursday evening for a report of a woman bleeding, Troopers found a victim bleeding heavily from a large cut on her nose, from a machete-type knife during an argument. The victim was taken to Bassett Hospital, and transferred to Upstate Medical Center in Syracuse to undergo surgery, Anyone with information about Masi or his location is asked to contact State Police at 607-561-7400.

State Police will be on full patrol to crack down on impaired and reckless for New Year's Eve & New Year's Day tomorrow, Drivers can expect to see sobriety checkpoints, Troopers will also be watching for distracted drivers, vehicle occupants not properly buckled up, and drivers violating the “Move Over Law,” State Police will also conduct underage drinker enforcement details statewide.

The Chenango County Bureau of Fire and Emergency Services will distribute of KN-95 masks from the state throughout the County. Masks will be distributed to high volume locations like the Norwich YMCA, county offices, non-profit organizations, schools, and other municipalities. The State has been delivering masks for people to have free of charge in order to try to slow down the spread of the Omicron variant of COVID 19.

A.M. NEWS FRIDAY 12-31-21

Oneonta Police Department is continuing the investigation into the bank robbery that occurred at the NBT Bank on Wall Street in Oneonta, Wednesday. Police believe that the suspect was aided by another person that drove him to the scene in a small four door sedan, possibly red in color with New York State blue and gold plates, which was parked in the municipal parking lot at Wall and Dietz Streets. Anyone with surveillance cameras downtown that may have captured video of traffic on Main Street from 10:40 am to 11:10 am is asked to contact the Oneonta Police Detective Division, at (607) 432-1111.

Several New Laws go into effect in 2022 in New York state. Officials in towns, villages, and cities across the state have until the end of the day today to opt-out of allowing marijuana sales within their jurisdictions. There will be an increase in the minimum wage, with different wages around the state, the new Paid Family Leave Act clarifies the number of leave days eligible employees can take and a Solitary Confinement Act restricts the use of solitary confinement in state prisons to no more than 15 consecutive days. Also, New York’s ban on single-use Styrofoam food and beverage containers, as well as ‘packing peanuts,’ takes effect tomorrow.

First Night Oneonta will have a New Year's Eve Festival of Lights event at Neahwa Park this evening from 5:00 to 8:00 PM. Food & Entertainment & a 150 foot long sparkling pedestrian archway will be among the highlights to the event, which is free to the public.

The annual Ball Drop to ring in the new year is scheduled this year on Court street in Binghamton, there will also be a fireworks display at Otsiningo Park this evening, the full line up of events can be found at allevents.in/binghamton/new-year

P.M. NEWS THURSDAY 12-30-21

Delhi Firefighters responded Wednesday evening to a fire at 161 Main Street in the village, at a homeless shelter.  4 occupants escaped without injury, the building is a total loss, and the cause of the fire is under investigation.

Governor Kathy Hochul today announced New York State's success in awarding $900 million in Child Care Stabilization Grants to child care programs statewide. The grants are part of a $2.3 billion package of investments in New York State's child care industry funded by the federal American Rescue Plan Act and Coronavirus Response and Relief Supplemental Appropriations Act. The Office of Children and Family Services (OCFS) awarded funding to nearly 15,000 eligible child care providers over four months, from August through November.  Over 219 Million Dollars will go to the Southern Tier Counties child care programs.

The Otsego County Health Department Reported 116 new COVID 19 cases Wednesday, they reported 299 active cases, 11 hospitalized and a positivity rate of 8.2% over the previous 7 days.  COVID Vaccines are available in Milford; appointments can be made at appointments.bioreference.com/nystatecovidtesting

New York Attorney General Letitia James today released the following statement after a jury voted that Teva Pharmaceuticals USA, Inc. and its affiliates were liable for the public nuisance charges made by New York state in its opioid trial in State Supreme Court:  A subsequent trial will be held to determine how much Teva and others will be required to pay.   Attorney General James has already negotiated deals with Johnson & Johnson, McKesson, Cardinal Health, and Amerisource Bergen for a global value of approximately $26 billion, the cases against Mallinckrodt and Rochester Drug Cooperative are now moving separately through U.S. Bankruptcy Court.

The Center for Agricultural Development & Entrepreurships Farmer' Survey deadline is tomorrow.  The survey takes about 15 minutes to complete and allows farmers to identify their top food system priorities.  The survey represents the 2nd phase of CADE’s data collection process, from 17 focus groups which were conducted between March and October in partnership with Cornell University, SUNY Cobleskill, and other researchers. The survey can be found at cornell.ca1.qualtrics.com, more information is available at cadefarms.org.

A.M. NEWS Thursday 12/30/21

The City of Oneonta Police Department is investigating a bank robbery at the NBT bank at 1 Wall Street Wednesday at about 11:00 AM.  A single male suspect demanded the teller to hand over an undisclosed amount of money, he  is described a 5’8 to 6’ tall, wearing a dark colored hooded sweatshirt, dark colored pants and is about 220-250 pounds with a heavy build.  He was last seen walking in an easterly direction on Wall Street.  The public is encouraged to contact the Oneonta Police Detectives with any additional information at (607) 432-1111.

Delaware County Public Health reported 117 new COVID cases for Tuesday & Wednesday, with a positivity rate still at 9.5%.  They have 272 active cases, 10 hospitalized & 336 quarantined, there have been 85 deaths from the virus in Delaware County.

Governor Hochul signed into law a bill which allows for New York air ambulances to carry blood products. The measure followed an injury of Travis Flanagan in Greene, who was severely injured & was airlifted from Greene to Syracuse in an air ambulance based in Pennsylvania that carried blood on board; New York was the only state in the nation whose regulations prohibited medical helicopters from carrying blood.  Flanagan appeared at a press conference in Binghamton yesterday with Assembly members Donna Lupardo & Joe Angelino & State Senator Fred Akshar.

P.M. NEWS WEDNESDAY 12-29-21

The Norwich Police Department arrested 54 year old Steven Manwarren of Norwich for 2nd degree Arson, Reckless Endangerment, & criminal Mischief, following the investigation into a fire at 30 Cortland Street at about 12:10 Tuesday morning. Manwarren is accused of intentionally setting a fire in his apartment, residents in other apartments escpaeescaped without injury, Manwarren was arraigned at Norwich City Court and held without bail pending a felony hearing.

Governor Kathy Hochul today announced a substantial year-over-year increase in available emergency home heating aid. HEAP will begin accepting emergency benefit applications starting Monday, January 3rd, for those New Yorkers who have already used up their regular benefit and who are now facing a heating emergency. More information is available at otda.ny.gov/programs/heap/contacts.

The winner of the Friends of Rogers 2021 Electric Car Raffle is Keith Thode of Grapevine, Texas, who graduated from Sherburne High School in 1989, he won a 2020 Tesla Model 3 and arrived in New York to pick up the car on December 2nd. Heather Tehan of the Friends of Rogers told WCDO News the rest of this story:

(Heather Tehan 12-29-21)

Tehan said that Thode visited friends & family around Sherburne & in Albany & then brought the Tesla to Pennsylvania to have it shipped back to Texas, where he has owned electric vehicles since 2014. All proceeds of the Electric Car Raffle, along with Thode's $5,000 donation, benefits Friends of Rogers Environmental Education Center in Sherburne.

Susquehanna SPCA's pop-up thrift shop in the Southside Mall generated $7,359.52 in income, today they presented checks to Super Heroes in Ripped Jeans, Delaware Valley Humane Society, and Heart Of The Catskills Humane Society, for $1,839.88 each.

A.M. NEWS WEDNESDAY 12-29-21

Almost 211,000 New Yorkers were tested for COVID Monday, with 40,780 testing positive, for a positivity rate of 19.33%. Patient Hospitalizations are up over 6100, Patients in an ICU bed went up by 32 to 945, the number of ventilators went up by 18 to 519, New deaths reported by healthcare facilities was 77

Delaware County is 1 of 6 counties in New York State chosen to receive support from NYSDOH to conduct COVID vaccination clinics. Personnel from NYSDOH and the national guard will support the county operated clinics beginning January 7th. The first location will be held in Sidney at the Sidney Elks Lodge on River St. from 11:00 AM to 7:00 PM, on Friday January 7th, , 8th, 28th, and 29th. The second in Stamford at the Catskill Veterans Outreach Center, 56 Main St. from 11AM-7PM, on January 14th, 15th & February 4th and 5th. The third location in Hancock at the Hancock Central School Bus Garage, from 11AM-7PM on January 21st, 22nd, February 11th and 12th. Online pre-registration links will be available next week. Walk-in appointments are also accepted for all eligible individuals. More Information is available at 607-832-5200.

P.M. NEWS TUESDAY 12-28-21

Chenango County Health Department announced today that they have scheduled a Moderna and Janssen booster clinic on December 30th at the South Plaza Clinic site in Norwich. The Health Department will be offering Pfizer boosters for ages 16 and older starting in January. The vaccination appointments link can be found at co.chenango.ny.us/public-health, other vaccine clinics can be found at covid19vaccine.health.ny.gov.

Assemblyman Joe Angelino is urging aspiring nurses to apply for the Nurses for Our Future Scholarship. The scholarship will pay for the tuition of 1,000 new or current health care workers working toward earning an associate’s or bachelor's degree in nursing at a 2 or 4-year New York state public college or university. Those interested in applying should visit: governor.ny.gov/programs/nurses-our-future-scholarship. The scholarship is available to both full-time and part-time students; applications are being accepted now through February 5th.

Demolition is underway in Binghamton, at the Water Street Parking Garage behind the Boscov's department Store downtown. The city is making more free parking spaces available downtown, until the old facility is knocked down & a new one of constructed.

NBT Bank announced that they have donated $12,500 to the Norwich YMCA this year. The donations will go for operating expenses as well as for the Gus Macker Basketball Tournament, The Turkey Trot & various Youth Programs & Summer camp programs.

A.M. NEWS Tuesday 12-28-21

The American Red Cross & State Police is hosting a blood drive today in Kirkwood in memory of Trooper Christopher Skinner, who lost his life by a hit-and-run driver while conducting a traffic stop on I-81 in Broome County in 2014. Blood Supplies are the lowest they have been during the holiday season, in 10 years, appointments are available at RedCrossBlood.org, downloading the free Blood Donor app or by calling 1-800 RED CROSS. The Drive is being held from 12:00 to 6:00 PM today at 16 Crescent Drive in Kirkwood, More information is available at 607- 237-9747.

Delaware County Public Health reported 93 new COVID cases from Friday to Monday, they have 232 active cases, 6 hospitalized 289 in quarantine and there are 84 deaths since the pandemic began.

P.M. NEWS MONDAY 12-27-21

Governor Kathy Hochul is urging New Yorkers to get vaccinated & complete the entire series as quickly as possible, as the omicron variant spreads quickly & hospitalizations continue to increase:

(Governor Hochul 12-27-21)

The latest vaccine information is available at Vaccines.gov.

Governor Kathy Hochul announced $23 million in grants to help improve water quality across New York State while mitigating the effects of climate change. Locally, the Village of Sidney will receive $480,000 to install water meters equipped with advanced meter reading technology, the Village of Walton will get $30,000 to identify sources of inflow and infiltration, evaluate alternatives, and recommend improvements to the wastewater collection system.

New York’s ban on single-use Styrofoam food and beverage containers, as well as ‘packing peanuts,’ takes effect Saturday. The new law allows a civil penalty of up to $250 for the first offense, $500 for the second in the same calendar year, and $1000 for the third and subsequent violations in the same calendar year.

A.M. NEWS MONDAY 12-27-21

State Police have identified the Trooper who fired his issued firearm Last Wednesday in Unadilla as Trooper Justin Miller, who has been a trooper since 2016. Trooper Miller responded on December 22 to a domestic dispute in Unadilla, he was confronted by Mark Beilby who was armed with a knife inside the home. Beilby did not comply with Trooper Miller’s repeated commands to drop the knife and advanced at the trooper, Trooper Miller discharged his firearm, striking Beilby, and then administered first aid, Beilby was first takn to AO Fox Hospital’s Tri-Town Campus in Sidney & then to Wilson Hospital in Johnson City, where he was pronounced deceased. The State Attorney General’s Office is investigating the incident.

The State Health Department tested over 650,000 people Friday & Saturday combined, with about 85,000 new positives, for a positivity rate of 14.1%. Patients Hospitalizations were close to 4900, patients in an ICU dropped slightly to 880, the number on ventilators went up by 6 to 501. The State reports over 60,700 deaths since the start of the pandemic. Vaccine Locations can be found at vaccines.gov.

The State Department of Health announced new guidance allowing healthcare workers and other essential workers who test positive for COVID-19 and are fully vaccinated to return to work sooner than previously allowed, in order to provide healthcare and other essential services. This decision follows new guidance from the CDC, after a surge of the Omicron variant. Workers can return if they have not had a fever for at least 72 hours without fever-reducing medication, have a resolution of symptoms & testing is not required.

P.M. NEWS FRIDAY 12-24-21

State Police & law enforcement agencies around the state will continue to participate in the “Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over” initiative through Saturday, January 1st. Drivers can expect to see sobriety checkpoints, Troopers will be watching for distracted drivers, vehicle occupants who are not properly buckled up, and drivers violating the “Move Over Law”.

Otsego County Sheriff's Office arrested Michael Bell of Westmoreland, following an investigation into a report of a violation of a Temporary Order of Protection. Bell is accused of violating the conditions of an Order of Protection issued by the Otsego County Supreme Court; he was arraigned & was released in his own recognizance and is scheduled to appear in the Town of Oneonta Court on a later date.

A.M. NEWS FRIDAY 12-24-21

The State Health Department reported testing a record 324,000 people for COVID Wednesday, with over 38,800 testing positve, for a positivity rate of just under 12%. Patient Hospitalizations increased to 4,534, the number in an ICU bed went up slightly to 837, those on ventilators went down by 1 to 474, and there were 63 deaths from COVID in Nursing Homes & Hospitals.

Governor Kathy Hochul signed a bill that will require the testing of 37 different hazardous chemicals in drinking water supplies. The law will be rolled out in 2 phases next year; currently, New York requires the testing of 2 types of hazardous chemicals.

P.M. NEWS THURSDAY 12-23-21

The Sidney Police Department executed an arrest warrant on 37 year old Barry Bradt of Unadilla, following an investigation into a level 3 registered sex offender failing to register his address with the State Sex Offender Registry, as required by law. Bradt is accused of registering with the Sidney Police Department and the state Registry as living at an address in the Village of Sidney, while physically residing at an address in Unadilla. Bradt was charged with Failure to register change of address within 10 days & Offering a false instrument for filing, he was arraigned in Village of Sidney Court & he was remanded to the Delaware County Jail on $5000 bail.

The Jericho Arts Council announced that they are accepting applications from artists who wish to participate in next year’s Regatta Row’s, featuring 12 Adirondack paddle chairs, and new this year story poles, Spokesperson Rachel Hares explains:

(Rachel Hares 12-23-21)

The Art will be displayed on Bainbridge sidewalks from April 27 until Memorial Day weekend, Proceeds from the May 28th Art Auction will go to the Jericho Arts Council to support our Artists & Musicians and to create future events. Artist applications and details are online at jerichoarts.com, applications are due by January 16th, and more information is available at 607-643-2211.

Delaware County Sheriff’s Office Arrested 24 year old Jake Vanwagner of Hobart for speeding & Aggravated Unlicensed Operation of a motor vehicle. Vanwagner was stopped by deputies Tuesday night, he is scheduled to appear at the Town of Davenport Court at a later date to answer the charges.

A.M. NEWS THURSDAY 12-23-21

State Police at Sidney were dispatched last night at about 7:00 PM, to a report of a domestic dispute at a residence on Lyons Street in the village of Unadilla. The responding trooper was confronted by 24 year old Mark Beilby, who was armed with a knife inside the home. Beilby did not comply with the trooper’s repeated commands to drop the knife and advanced at the trooper. The trooper discharged his issued firearm, striking Beilby, who was transported to Tri-Town Hospital then transferred to Wilson Medical Center where he was pronounced deceased. The New York State Attorney General’s Office is investigating the incident.

The State Health Department continues to report an increase in COVID cases, with over 28,900 new cases Tuesday out of 271,000 tested, for a positivity rate of 10.66%. patient hospitalization are over 4400, patients in an ICU Bed are over 828 and the number of ventilators is 475, there were 57 deaths in Hospitals & nursing homes Tuesday from the virus.

Delaware County Public Health reported 70 new COVID cases on Tuesday & Wednesday, their positivity rate was at 9.3%. There are 279 active cases, 4 hospitalized and 520 quarantined, and an 83 death from COVID has been confirmed. 54.5% of County residents are fully vaccinated.

P.M. NEWS WEDNESDAY 12-22-21

Governor Kathy Hochul announced that temporary lane closures for road and bridge construction projects on State highways will be suspended starting tomorrow morning at 6:00 AM, until Monday December 27th at 6:00 AM. Construction will also be suspended from Thursday December 30th to Monday, January 3rd to ease travel for motorists.   Motorists should be aware that some work may continue behind permanent concrete barriers or for emergency repairs.

Employees of Health Departments around the state have put in a lot of overtime during the pandemic, and have also been the target of threats of physical violence, Otsego County Sheriff Rich Devlin told WCDO news that the local health Department received such threats, and that is unacceptable:

(Sheriff Devlin 12-22-21)

Sheriff Devlin said that no arrests have been made so far for the threats to Otsego County Health Department staff.

A.M. NEWS WEDNESDAY 12-22-21

The State Health Department reports that the winter surge is continuing, after 214,165 were tested for COVID 19 Monday & 22,258 people were positive, for a 10.4% positivity rate.  Patient Hospitalizations went up by more than 300 to 4,328; almost 800 are in an ICU unit with 470 on ventilators, 57 died at hospitals & nursing homes Monday.

The New York State Education Department is canceling January regents’ exams for the second year in a row due to the COVID-19 pandemic.   The education department will ask the Board of Regents to approve changes to diploma requirements to accommodate students who were scheduled to take the January exams.

P.M. NEWS TUESDAY 12-21-21

The State Department of Labor released preliminary local unemployment rates for November. Locally, Chenango County had 3.4% unemployment, Otsego & Delaware Counties both had 3.5%, the State's unemployment rate dropped 3/10th's to 6.6% in November.

Bassett Healthcare Network announced today that Bassett Medical Center in Cooperstown and Cobleskill Regional Hospital have been placed on a state-wide list of facilities that currently have occupancies of 90% or more; A.O. Fox Hospital and Little Falls Hospital remain on that list. Those impacted facilities are also limiting non-essential elective procedures in accordance with an executive order enacted by the New York State Department of Health on December 3rd. Capacities at affected hospitals are being reassessed every 2 weeks. With rising cases of COVID-19 in the region, Bassett Healthcare Network will suspend visitation for the safety of patients and staff in all emergency departments across its network starting Wednesday.

Otsego County Sheriff Rich Devlin announced the temporary closure of 2 housing units within the Jail today due to critically low staffing levels after consulting with the the State Commission of Correction, he talked to WCDO News about the need for positive changes coming from the Otsego County Board of Representatives:

(Sheriff Devlin 12-21-21)

Sheriff Devlin stated that this is the 2nd facility shutdown in as many years, and he hopes that next year will bring more realistic discussion about the future of the Department of Corrections.

A.M. NEWS TUESDAY 12-21-21

Firefighters from Unadilla, Franklin, Wells Bridge, & Otego responded to a fire last night at 10:30 PM, at 43 Watson Street in Unadilla. The House and garage were fully involved, adult and 2 children were being treated for smoke inhalation, the cause of the fire is under investigation. The Unadilla Fire Department has posted a list of items the displaced residents need following the fire, it is posted on the Unadilla Fire Department Facebook page.

Governor Kathy Hochul today announced that she is making $65 million available to counties across New York State to help with the costs associated with administering vaccines and boosters and enforcing the mask-or-vaccine mandate for indoor public places that went into effect statewide last week. Up to $1 million will be available for most counties, with larger counties eligible to receive up to $2 million.

The State Health Department tested over 258,000, with 23,391 testing positive, for a Positivity rate of 9.04%. Patient Hospitalization are up to 4,020, with 769 in an ICU bed, and Patients on ventilators is up to 451, New deaths reported by healthcare facilities was 60 on Sunday.

Delaware County Public Health reported 77 new cases of COVID 19 Saturday through Monday, there are 263 active cases, 4 hospitalized & 533 in quarantine.

Visitation is suspended at Otsego County Correctional Facility until further notice due to the increase in COVID cases in the area, according to the Otsego County Sheriff’s Office. Otsego County Health Department reported 21 new cases Monday, there are 320 active COVID-19 cases, 12 people are hospitalized & there were 2 new deaths reported.

Assemblyman Joseph Angelino announced $25,000 in funding to the Four County Library System to support libraries within the 122nd Assembly District. The most recent state budget allowed each legislator to submit aid requests on behalf libraries within their districts. The Sidney Memorial Public Library will receive $5,000, to purchase new technology items such as virtual reality headsets and a 3D printer. Other area libraries will receive $1,111 each, including Afton, Bainbridge, Deposit, Franklin, Gilbertsville, New Berlin, the Guernsey Memorial Library in Norwich, plus Oxford, South New Berlin, Unadilla, & the Ogden Free Library in Walton.

P.M. NEWS MONDAY 12-20-21

Norwich City Police responded to the report of a gunshot Saturday Night on Broad Street, and discovered an alleged meth lab at 134 South Broad Street and arrested 27 year old Tyler Mills. Mills was charged with resisting arrest, 2nd degree obstruction of governmental administration, and criminal nuisance. A search warrant was executed at Mills residence, & the evidence of a meth lab was collected by officers, the investigation is continuing & more charges are expected.

Governor Hochul announced that over 40 New Vaccine & Booster Pop up sites will be up & running this week around the state. The State Health Department & the Governor's Office are partnering with local health departments and community partners to launch more sites over the coming weeks. Sites are expected to be announced for the tri county area shortly, as this region has among the lowest vaccination rates in the state. Current Vaccine sites can be found at vaccines.gov/search.

Rural Health Network of South Central New York’s Getthere Call Center seeks volunteer drivers for a new program in the City of Norwich: Community Rides, starting December 29th. Volunteer drivers will provide local rides to healthcare, food, prescriptions, events, and other community locations on Wednesdays from 9 AM to 3 PM, for seniors and others in need, those who want to sign up as a volunteer driver, should call 1-855-373-4040.

The Bainbridge Chamber of Commerce will have their next meeting tomorrow morning at 7:30 at the back of Bob's Diner. Chamber members are encouraged to attend.

A.M. NEWS MONDAY 12-20-21

State Police have arrested 46 year old Charles Richter of Bainbridge, who was wanted in connection with an assault during a domestic dispute in Bainbridge. The victim sustained serious injuries and was transported to Wilson Hospital for treatment, Richter has been charged with Attempted Murder, 1st degree Assault, Criminal Contempt, Unlawful Imprisonment.

Delaware County Public Health reported 77 new cases of COVID 19 for Thursday & Friday, for an 8.9% positivity rate. There were 289 active cases, 7 hospitalized and 530 quarantined, 54.3% of Delaware County Residents were fully vaccinated.

P.M. NEWS FRIDAY 12-17-21

The Community Cultural Center of Sidney will hold another Comedy Night this Saturday night starting at 8:00 PM, center President Teri Schunk explains:

(Teri Schunk 12-17-21)

The comedians will be Gomez Adams and Tom Anzalone, also on Sunday, at 2:00 PM, there will be a Christmas Concert featuring the Sidney Community Band at the Community Cultural Center at 1 Bridge Street in downtown Sidney.

State Police conducted an Underage Drinking Initiative in Chenango County & 1 establishment was not in compliance and sold alcohol to a minor. Police said that B&W wines & Liquors of Bainbridge was not in compliance under the New York Beverage Control Law Section 65, the unidentified clerk was issued an appearance ticket to answer to the charge at a later date.

A.M. NEWS FRIDAY 12-17-21

Area School district announced that they are aware of the latest social media post threatening gun violence at un-named schools today. A TikTok post was circulating like last week, it is not specific to any specific school district, area law enforcement agencies are aware of the threat & schools will be vigilant in their security efforts today, which may include lockdowns again.

P.M. NEWS THURSDAY 12-16-21

The State Department of Labor announced today that the number of private sector jobs increased by 24,200, from October to November to over 7.6 Million, the highest numbers since before the pandemic began to affect the state 22 months ago. The State's seasonally adjusted unemployment rate decreased from 6.9% to 6.6% in November 2021.

Delaware County Sheriff's Office announced the arrest of an Inmate of the Delaware County Correction Facility, on a warrant issued by the Chenango County Family Court. 42-Year-Old Timothy Byrne had just completed his sentence on unrelated charges, & he was turned over to Chenango County for a violation of the New York State Family Court Act & faces court action shortly.

U.S. Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer and U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand announced over $136 Million Dollars in federal funding for 59 airports across New York State. The funding was allocated through the recently enacted Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act and can be used for a variety of infrastructure improvements. Locally, the Albert S. Nader Regional Airport in Oneonta & the Sidney Municipal airport will receive $159,000.

A.M. NEWS Thursday 12-16-21

Delaware County Public Health reported 71 new cases of COVID 19 on Tuesday & Wednesday, 9.1% of those tested being positive. There are 296 active cases, 14 hospitalized and 482 quarantined. Delaware County Public Health will be conducting a COVID-19 vaccination clinic for people 18 and older today at 97 Main Street, Delhi. Moderna 1st or 2nd doses will only be available from 2:00 to 4:00 PM for walk-ins only, while Moderna boosters will be available from 2:00 to 4:00 PM with pre-registration required at apps2.health.ny.gov. Individuals receiving boosters, need to bring a copy of previous shot records to prove eligibility, for more information, call Delaware County Public Health at 607-832-5200.

P.M. NEWS WEDNESDAY 12-15-21

The Chenango County Correctional Facility has suspended inmate visitation due to the increased threat in our area connected to the COVID-19 Pandemic. The situation will be closely monitored, and inmate visitation will resume as soon as possible, but will remain suspended until further notice.

The Town of Guilford held a special vote Monday regarding the state's new marijuana law. 121 Guilford residents voted in favor of allowing marijuana dispensaries & on-site consumption business in the town, 67 voted against the measure.

The Otsego County Chamber of Commerce will host an informational ZOOM seminar tomorrow morning at 8:30 AM on Leadership Otsego 2022, which is a 6 month program that begins in February 2022. More information or registration is available at otsegoccny.chambermaster.com.

A.M. NEWS WEDNESDAY 12-15-21

State and local law enforcement agencies throughout the state will increase patrols targeting impaired driving during the holiday travel season. The campaign will begin this Friday, through Saturday, January 1st, as part of the national "Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over" initiative designed to reduce alcohol and drug-related traffic crashes. During the 2020 holiday season initiative, law enforcement throughout the state arrested 2,067 people for impaired driving & issued over 70,000 tickets for vehicle and traffic law violations.

P.M. NEWS TUESDAY 12-14-21

Delaware County Chamber of Commerce President Ray Pucci defended accusations made against him & The Chamber today on the WCDO Morning show, that were made at the Delaware County Board of Supervisors meeting in Delhi, where he was accused of withholding financial statements to the Board, they have removed the Chamber as the County's Official Tourism agency & passed that responsibility over the Delaware County Department of Economic Development:

(Ray Pucci 12-14-21)

Pucci said that the chamber will continue with its other programs for its 300 members businesses, plus the annual Toys for Tots campaign, and trying to solve the issue of transportation for county residents to County jobs, more information is available at delawarecounty.org.

Delaware County Board of Supervisors Chairperson Tina Mole announced today that the County will not reallocate resources to enforce the newest New York State mask mandate that took effect on Monday. Mole stated that Delaware County does not have the internal framework to enforce this mandate, but businesses have oversight from other state agencies, such as Agriculture and Markets or other professional licensing boards, which may enforce the Mask newest mandate. County residents are asked to follow the mandate in business following the mandate lease, pleases wear masks in public spaces, get vaccinated and continue to be diligent with social distancing and hand washing practices. More information about COVID is available at delawarecountypublichealth.com.

A softcover edition of a book about the history of Bainbridge "Stones From The Walls Of Jericho" is available, as a fundraiser for the Bainbridge Rotary Club, spokesman Dave DeClue told WCDO News about the book & how to get a copy in time for Christmas for the history buff on your Christmas List.:

(Dave DeClue 12-14-21)

Copies are available by emailing DeClue for the information to DaveDeClue@stny.rr.com; the book was originally published in 1986 & was republished in the last couple of years for the Bainbridge Rotary.

Chenango County Health Department continues to schedule vaccine clinics around the county. a 1st dose Pfizer Vaccine clinic for ages 5 and older will be held at the Greenlawn Elementary School in Bainbridge today from 4:00 to 6:00 PM.

A.M. NEWS TUESDAY 12-14-21

Delaware County Sheriff’s Deputies initiated a traffic stop on a vehicle in the Town of Hamden last Tuesday for an equipment violation. 53 year-old Lisamichelle LaLonde, of Morris, was operating a motor vehicle with a suspended New York driver’s license, due to a previous insurance lapse. LaLonde was later issued traffic tickets for Aggravated Unlicensed Operation of a Motor Vehicle in the Third Degree, Unlicensed Operator, and Insufficient Brake Lamps. LaLonde is scheduled to appear before the Town of Hamden Court at a later date to answer the charges.

Delaware County Public Health reported another COVID 19 Death, bringing their number up to 81. The report covers Saturday through Monday, with 64 new cases, 321 active cases, 12 hospitalized & 379 in Quarantine, the positivity rate was at 9.5%. 54.1% of Delaware County residents are vaccinated.

P.M. NEWS MONDAY 12-13-21

State Police have released body cam footage State Trooper David Draudt, who saved a child who was choking in the Town of Union on November 29th, Trooper Draudt talked about the incident:

(State Trooper David Draudt 12-13-21)

The full body cam video & interview with Trooper Draudt is available at the WCDO Facebook Page.

The New York State Common Retirement Fund will invest $2 billion in an index focused on reducing the risks of climate change and capitalizing on the opportunities arising from the transition to a low-carbon economy, according to State Comptroller Tom DiNapoli. The decision is part of the State Comptroller's Climate Action Plan to get to net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2040.

A.M. NEWS Monday 12-13-21

The Delaware County Board of Supervisors has decided to remove the Delaware County Chamber of Commerce as the tourism promotion agent for the County, even as visitor spending & sales tax revenue has increased in recent years, Delaware County Chamber of Commerce President Ray Pucci told WCDO News Friday that the Chamber Board fears that the decision will hurt the county economy:

(Ray Pucci 12-13-21)

Pucci also said that the chamber has been transparent with their finances, and recent audits showed no issues, Delaware County board of Supervisors Chairperson Tina Mole was unavailable for comment on the Chamber Decision on Friday.

The Town of Guilford is holding a special election today at the Town Hall on Marble Road from 12:00 Noon until 8:00 pm. Guilford Voters will decide on a proposition regarding the possible opting out of the state's new Cannabis bill that that allows for dispensaries & places of consumption for marijuana.

Delaware County Public Health reported another COVID 19 death in their report for Thursday & Friday, the county has had 80 deaths from the pandemic. They had 82 new cases 396 active cases, 6 hospitalized 451 Quarantined, their positivity rate was 10.4%.

Zephyr Teachout has officially dropped out of the race to be New York’s attorney general, days after incumbent Letitia James decided to seek reelection. Teachout lost the 2018 Democratic primary for attorney general to James, She also ran for the Democratic nomination for governor of New York in 2014, losing to Andrew Cuomo, and lost a congressional race in 2016 but Republican John Faso in the general election.

P.M. NEWS FRIDAY 12-10-21

The Otsego County Sheriff's Office stated that they were notified this morning by a local school district regarding the social media threat to unnamed schools, regarding possible gun violence at 12:15, but no specific date or school was named. This incident is currently being investigated by not only the Sheriff’s Office but multiple police agencies within and outside of Otsego County. The threat has been received by students at various schools in the area and statewide, the threat appears to be false. Officers communicated with school officials and were present in the areas of all of the schools this morning. Officers will continue to show a police presence & the investigation is ongoing.

State Attorney General Letitia James Announced that she is backing out of a run for New York Governor, and will concentrate on re-election to her current position. James was polling at a distant 2nd to current Governor Kathy Hochul among democrats, according to recent Sienna College Polls.

The Delaware County Chamber of Commerce announced today that the annual Toys For Tots Campaign was wildly successful. Delaware County Chamber of Commerce President Ray Pucci comments:

(Ray Pucci 12-10-21)

Toys for Tots works with the U.S. Marine Corps to provide a tangible sign of hope to economically disadvantaged children at Christmas. The Toys for Tots program was created in 1947 and has distributed 584 million toys to date to 265 million children.

A.M. NEWS FRIDAY 12-10-21

Otsego County Sheriff's Department arrested 41 year old Jeremiah Butler of the town of Maryland, following an investigation into a November 13th motor vehicle accident in the Town of Middlefield. Butler was charged with Felony DWI, operating a Motor Vehicle with a BAC of .08 of higher, failure to keep right, speed not reasonable & prudent along with other charges, Butler was released on an appearance tickets for Town of Middlefield Court at a later date.

The Bainbridge Christmas Parade will held Saturday Afternoon at 5:00 pm, Chamber President John Payne explains:

(John Payne 12-20-21)

Payne said that photos with Santa Claus will be held after parade at Jerry's Inn, The Bainbridge Chamber of Commerce will also have a Toys for Tots collection at the Bainbridge Firehouse, they will have another collection on Sunday during the Christmas Caroling at 5:00 pm behind Bob's Diner, and toys must be new & unwrapped.

North Country Comedy will bring 3 comedians to the Sidney American Legion Hall at 22 Union Street Saturday Night, Show MC Mikael Gregg told WCDO News about the comedians:

(Mikael Gregg 12-10-21)

The American Legion will have a Prime Rib dinner at 6:00 PM, prior to the show, tickets for the show are available at the Legion or at northcountrycomedy.com.

P.M. NEWS THURSDAY 12-9-21

The Southern Tier Regional Economic Development Council has awarded the City of Norwich a 10-Million-Dollar grant for the revitalization of downtown Norwich. Commerce Chenango President & CEO Kerri Green commented about the award on WCDO this morning:

(Kerri Green 12-9-21)

Green said that the area that will benefit is about 1 mile long and a quarter-mile wide and is in the existing Business Improvement District in Norwich, the Norwich Proposal can be viewed by going to ny.gov, click on downtown revitalization initiative, go to round 5 winners & scroll to Southern Tier & click on Norwich & then view DRI Application.

Otsego County Sheriff's department arrested a County inmate Wednesday for assaulting a Corrections Officer and fleeing from custody during a Court appearance in the Town of New Lisbon yesterday afternoon. 27 year old John Clark was charged with Assault on Police Officer, 2nd degree Escape, 3rd degree Assault, Obstruction of Governmental Administration, Resisting Arrest & Harassment. Otsego County corrections officers were transporting Clark to a regularly scheduled court appearance when he fled from the custody of the corrections officers, a foot pursuit was initiated and a corrections officer attempted to take the defendant back in to custody. During a brief struggle, Clark caused the correction officer to sustain a hand fracture. Clark was returned back to the Otsego County Correctional Facility and will be processed at Otsego County Centralized Arraignment at a later time. The corrections officer was treated at Bassett Hospital and a return to work has not been established.

Bassett Healthcare Network announced today that in accordance with an executive order enacted by the New York State Department of Health on December 3, 2 of their hospitals; A.O. Fox Hospital in Oneonta & Little Falls Hospital, have been placed on a state-wide list of facilities that currently have occupancies of 90% or more. These facilities will limit non-essential elective procedures for the next 2 weeks.

The Delaware County Board of Supervisors has decided to name the Delaware County Department of Economic Development as the entity to promote tourism. Previously, tourism programs were run by the Delaware County Chamber of Commerce, through a contract with Blue Spark Creative Services of Delhi, Blue Spark is expected to continue its work through the Department of Economic Development.

A.M. News Thursday 12-9-21

Delaware County Public Health will hold a COVID 19 Vaccination Clinic at 97 Main Street in Delhi today. Johnson & Johnson vaccine-Walk-ins and Moderna 1st or 2nd shot Walk-ins will be held from 1:00 to 2:00 PM, Moderna boosters require Pre-registration, they can get the boosters between 2:00 to 400 PM, register at apps2.health.ny.gov/doh2, for more information, call Delaware County Public Health at 607-832-520

P.M. NEWS WEDNESDAY 12-8-21

Chenango County Health Department confirmed their 92nd Resident death attributed to COVID-19 infection. Chenango County reports 321 active cases, 25% of them are fully vaccinated, there are 710 quarantined, 8 hospitalized. Links to Vaccination clinics are available at co.chenango.ny.us or covid19vaccine.health.ny.gov.

In light of the emergence of the Omicron variant in New York State, U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand announced her bipartisan COVID-19 and Pandemic Response Centers of Excellence Act, to prepare for all Hospitals for health emergencies in the near and distant future.

(Gillibrand 12-8-21)

Senator Gillibrand said that Academic medical centers are already at the epicenter of integrating research, clinical operations, vaccine development, and education, and are uniquely positioned to serve as a bridge between government and public health programs in rural & urban areas.

Governor Kathy Hochul today announced New York's annual statewide holiday donation drive to benefit families in need across New York will begin tomorrow. Donations of new unwrapped toys, coats and school supplies are being sought to assist community-based organizations during the holiday giving season. The Office of General Services has set up drop-off locations across the state , local drop off points will be the Binghamton State Office Building, 44 Hawley Street, & the Homer Folks Facility, 28 Hill Street, Oneonta.

A.M. NEWS WEDNESDAY 12-8-21

The State Health Department reported 2 more Omicron variant cases Tuesday, in Broome and Westchester Counties. Over 149,000 were tested for COVID with 8210 positives, for a positivity rate of 5.5%, Patient Hospitalization continue to sharply increase, they are up to 3,401, with 631 Patients in an ICU and 352 on ventilators, there were 52 deaths from COVID in hospitals & Nursing Homes Tuesday.

New York State of Health announced that the deadline is approaching for New Yorkers who want coverage in a Qualified Health Plan by the start of 2022. Consumers must renew or enroll in a health plan through NY State of Health by December 15th, for coverage starting January 1st, more information is available at nystateofhealth.ny.gov or 1-855-355-5777.

P.M. NEWS TUESDAY 12-7-21

Delaware County Public Health reported that they are now up to 78 deaths from the COVID 19 virus pandemic. From Saturday through Monday, the County reported 105 new cases, 411 active cases with 22 hospitalized and 348 quarantined, and their positivity rate was over 15%. 53.7% of Delaware County Residents are vaccinated, 85% of active cases were not vaccinated.

Local Lawmakers gathered in Binghamton yesterday to continue to state their opposition to the controversial Bail Reform laws put into place by Former Governor Cuomo almost 2 years ago. Local Assemblyman Joe Angelino told WCDO News that the Bail reform law has removed the option for a judge to send someone arrested for a drug related crime to get help:

(Joe Angelino 12-7-21)

Yesterday, State Senator Akshar introduced legislation to make certain drug crimes bail eligible and allow courts to consider the risk of continued substance abuse when faced with defendants who have addiction issues.

The latest Siena College Poll has Governor Kathy Hochul with a big lead over her Democratic challengers in the 2022 gubernatorial race. Hochul had 36%, followed by Attorney General Letitia James with 18%, New York City Public Advocate Jumaane Williams with 10% and Congressman Tom Suozzi with 6%, tied with New York City Mayor Bill de Blasio, who is considering a bid for governor.

A.M. NEWS TUESDAY 12-7-21

Governor Kathy Hochul announced the detection of 4 more confirmed cases of the COVID-19 Omicron variant in New York State, for a total of 12. 2 of the new cases are from Suffolk County and 2 are from Oneida County. Starting Today, all further Omicron updates will be included in the Governor's daily COVID-19 progress update press release. The State Department of Health's Wadsworth Center Laboratory continues to actively monitor COVID-19 virus samples selected throughout the State to compare sequences and identify circulating and new variants, including Omicron at coronavirus.health.ny.gov/covid-19-variant-data.

Governor Kathy Hochul announced that New York State is the first state in the nation to receive U.S. Department of the Treasury's approval to launch its Homeowner Assistance Fund, a program that will provide up to $539 million to help eligible homeowners avert mortgage delinquency, default, foreclosure, and displacement. Applications will be accepted beginning Monday, January 3rd, at nyhomeownerfund.org.

P.M. NEWS MONDAY 12-6-21

2 Chenango County Sheriff’s Deputies suffered minor injuries late Saturday night, as they were answering a call in a patrol car when they were hit by another vehicle at East Main Street and North Broad Street in Norwich. 19 year old Seth Wessels was the driver of the pickup truck that struck the Deputies patrol vehicle, he was found to be intoxicated at the time of the accident, he was charged with DWI by Norwich City Police, who responded to the accident. 1 of the deputies returned to work after being treated at Chenango Memorial Hospital, the other suffered a wrist injury & is expected to miss some time. the investigation is opngoing, Wessels will appear in Norwich City court at a later date.

Chenango County Health Department continues to urge County residents to get vaccinated, as they are experiencing a surge again in COVID 19 cases, Spokesman Isaiah Sutton told WCDO News that research shows that naturally immunity after having COVID once, has minimal effect in getting COVID a 2nd time:

(Isaiah Sutton 12-6-21)

Chenango County Residents can register to get vaccinated by going to the co.chenango.ny.us, The County reported 280 active cases, with 23% of those vaccinated, and they have 9 people hospitalized & 622 quarantined.

Delaware County Sheriff Craig DuMond announced that members of the Sheriff’s Office recently completed a fundraiser in participation of “No-Shave November” and awarded donations to 2 local Delaware County agencies. Officers raised $1,000, which was divided evenly between the Delaware County Veterans Service Agency and Delaware Opportunities-Safe Against Violence program.

A.M. NEWS MONDAY 12-6-21

Governor Kathy Hochul reported 3 more cases of omicron variant of COVID in New York State. Positivity rates, the number hospitalized is over 3200, & the number in ICU Beds & on Ventilators continues to increase, more information is available at coronavirus.health.ny.gov/covid-19-variant-data

Delaware County Public Health continues to see an increase in COVID test positivity rates. Testing on Thursday & Friday showed a rate of 16.67%, with 103 new cases, 23 hospitalized, 340 active cases and 403 quarantined. 53.4% of Delaware County Residents are fully vaccinated.

P.M. NEWS FRIDAY 12-3-21

State Police arrested 36 year old William Sabines of Preston after he was indicted by a Chenango County Grand Jury Thursday. Sabines was charged with 2nd degree Murder, Concealment of a Human Corpse and Tampering with Physical Evidence. Sabines was arrested following an investigation into the disappearance of Jesse Donlin, formerly of Sidney, Unadilla and Afton locally. Donlin was reported missing in September of 2019 after failing to appear for a court appearance in Utica, the investigation ultimately led to Sabines arrest. Sabines was remanded to the Chenango County Jail on $250,000 cash bail or $500,000 bond pending future court action.

Former New York City Health Commissioner Dr. Mary Bassett became the State Health Commissioner on Wednesday, replacing Dr. Howard Zucker, who had been the state Health Commissioner since 2015. Bassett takes over as the state's COVID-19 hospitalizations are increasing across the state. Bassett was credited, along with Dr. Zucker & Dr. Anthony Fauci of the CDC with stopping a potentially deadly Ebola Outbreak after 1 case was found and contained in New York City in 2013.

A.M. NEWS FRIDAY 12-3-21

Governor Kathy Hochul today announced the first 5 confirmed cases of the COVID-19 Omicron variant in New York State. So far, the cases appear unrelated and have been confirmed through sequencing of the SARS-CoVID-2 virus. 1 case is from Suffolk County, 4 others are in New York City, 4 other states have also reported cases of the new COVID variant. On Thursday, Governor Hochul announced that the State has ordered 1 Million Testing Kits to Distribute to Local Health Departments & 40 New Pop-Up Vaccine Sites will be launched this month.

The Afton Annual Christmas Parade, will be part of the scheduled activites tomorrow, Greater Afton Area Chamber of Commerce President John Hinman told WCDO News what activites are planned:

(John Hinman 12-3-21)

Hinman said that floats and vehicles will line up at Corporate Park off Route 7, Walking groups, bicycles, and golf carts will gather at the Afton Edge Apartments.

Also on Saturday, Unadilla's Santa Saturday & Holiday Magic Parade will be held, sponsored by the Unadilla Chamber of Commerce & The Unadilla Historical Society, spokesperson Linda Bickos explains:

(Linda Bickos 12-3-21)

More Information is available at the Unadilla Chamber of Commerce Facebook page.

P.M. NEWS THURSDAY 12-2-21

State Police are reminding motorists to obey the states "Move Over Law" after a state trooper on duty in his patrol car in Westchester County, had a truck crashed into his vehicle early Tuesday morning. Trooper Carlos Desilva was monitoring traffic from inside his troop car on the shoulder of I-87 when he was struck by a truck that drifted off the roadway and slammed into Desilva's marked cruiser. State Police said the vehicle sustained heavy damage, Trooper Desilva was taken to an area hospital & was treated & released.

Delaware County Public Health continues to report a surge in COVID 19 cases, with 111 new positive cases reported on Tuesday & Wednesday. The County has 290 Active cases, 18 are now hospitalized and 290 are quarantined, only 53.4% of County Residents are fully vaccinated.

Families visiting the Susquehanna Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals on Saturday from 10:00 AM to 12:00 noon, can have their pictures taken with Santa, Mrs. Claus and the shelter’s adoptable pets. Family dogs are invited to participate as well, but must be up to date on vaccinations. To view available animals or to donate, visit sqspca.org. or call 607-547-8111, The New Shelter is located on State Route 28 in Cooperstown.

Small Business Saturday may have already passed this holiday season, but area chambers are asking residents to continue to shop local wherever possible through the holiday season, Delaware County Chamber of Commerce President Ray Pucci explains:

(Ray Pucci 12-2-21)

Pucci said that 67% of money spent at local stores stays in the community, while shopping at chain stores contributes as low as only 14% to the community they are located in.

A.M. NEWS Thursday 12-2-21

Otsego County Department of Health reported 55 new cases of COVID 19 have been reported Wednesday, with an additional 22 cases also reported from November 18th to the 28th, which were in a nursing home and were not previously reported to the health department. Otsego County has 267 Active cases, with 8 Hospitalized & 2 more Deaths, Otsego County Department of Health recommends everyone, even those who are fully vaccinated, to wear a mask indoors in public, and to continue actively washing hands & practice social distancing.

P.M. NEWS WEDNESDAY 12-1-21

The Village of Sidney announced that the demolition of a fire damaged building will begin today. 14 East Main Street was damaged by fire a couple of years ago, the structure at the corner of East Main & Chestnut will be demolished, the project is expected to last between 3 & 5 days.

The Otsego County Health Department announced another COVID 19 death in their most recent report released Tuesday. The County had 48 new cases, 208 active cases, 8 are hospitalized, and the 7 day rolling average for positivity rate was 8.5%. Otsego County has had 878 COVID deaths since the pandemic started, 66 of them this year.

The Former Fire House on East Main Street in Sidney will become "The Wakeman Coffee Company” soon, it will be a coffee shop & roastery, partners Sage McKinley & Jesse Wakeman told WCDO News how this business venture started, and what renovations have been done:

(Sage McKinley-Jesse Wakeman 12-1-21)

The Wakeman Coffee Company is expected to open in the next few weeks.

U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand announced her bipartisan Dairy Pricing Opportunity Act today, following the Senator’s Senate Agriculture Subcommittee hearing on modernizing milk pricing and the Federal Milk Marketing Order system:

(Gillibrand 12-1-21)

Gillibrand said that the price increase for milk producers would have little affect on Milk prices in the upstate counties, as most people have their dairy supplied from farms close to their hometowns, plus farmers only receive pennies on the dollar for their role in milk priduction.

A.M. NEWS Wednesday 12-1-21

The State Health Department reported that over 130,000 COVID tests were conducted Monday, with close to 6600 positives, the positivity rate is back over 5%. Patient Hospitalization are approaching 3000, ICU patients are back up to 567, the number on ventilators was at 303, there were 41 deaths in Hospitals & nursing homes from COVID on Monday.

P.M. NEWS TUESDAY 11-30-21

Fire Investigators in Chenango County are continuing their investigation into what started the fire that Destroyed the Silo Restaurant in Greene early Sunday Morning, Silo Owner Gary Kurz told WCDO News what he was told so far:

(Gary Kurz 11-30-21)

Kurz told WCDO News that he was ready to sign papers this week to turn the ownership of the restaurant over; instead he will talk with his insurance company & also try to help the 35 employees at the SIlo, who now find themselves unemployed.

The Delaware County Chamber of Commerce held it 1st steering committee meeting recently as they try to implement a "Micro-Transit" plan to get Delaware County residents to & from Delaware County jobs, Chamber President Ray Pucci explains:

(Ray Pucci 11-30-21)

Pucci said that they are working with Getthere New York to try to implement a micro transit system similar but different than current Ride Sharing systems in place around the county, to accommodate Delaware County's rural nature.

Long Island Democratic Congressman Tom Suozzi announced that he is running for New York Governor in 2022. Suozzi becomes the 4th Democrat to announce a run for Governor, following current Governor Kathy Hochul, Attorney General Letitia James & New York City Public Advocate Jumaane Williams. Suozzi has been a congressman since 2016, he recently ruened down an invitation to Join the administration of the next New York City Mayor Eric Adams.

Local car dealers have been having issues with people stealing Catalytic Coverters off of the bottom of the cars they have for sale, Sidney Police Chief Eric Oliver comments about the recent crimes & what local residents can do:

(Sidney Police Chief Eric Oliver 11-30-21)

Chief Oliver said that while some of the dealerships are technically out of their jurisdiction, they still patrol that area, and they work cooperatively with the State Police & local Sheriff's Departments if an issue arises.

A.M. NEWS TUESDAY 11-30-21

Delaware County Public Health continues to see a high positivity rate of COVID 19, 12.08% of all tested Saturday through Monday have the virus, there were 76 new cases, there are 202 active cases, 14 hospitalized & 218 quarantined. 53.2 of Delaware County Residents are fully vaccinated, 80% of the positive cases are unvaccinated.

P.M. NEWS MONDAY 11-29-21

The Silo Restaurant in Greene was destroyed by a fire early Sunday Morning, with 17 fire companies from 3 counties responding, WCDO News spoke with owner Gary Kurz, who said that he had an agreement in place to sell the legendary restaurant & was ready to sign papers this week:

(Gary Kurz 11-29-21)

Kurz said that he had about 35 employees at the Silo, he said that investigators are at the scene today to try to determine where the fire started, it was not a kitchen fire & appeared to start in the middle of the building, and the nearby Carriage house was not affected.

Governor Kathy Hochul today announced changes aimed at encouraging more food-insecure older adults and disabled individuals to enroll in the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program. The changes include simplifying the SNAP application, extending the duration these households can receive benefits before needing to recertify, and eliminating the need for them to complete an interview during the recertification process. Starting in December, eligible older New Yorkers can also now recertify their benefits for 36 months—12 months longer than the previous timeline for recertification, applicants will no longer be required to complete an interview to recertify their benefits.

A.M. NEWS MONDAY 11-29-21

The Silo Restaurant in Greene was destroyed by fire early Sunday morning. Chenango County Fire Officials reported that Coventry Fire department responded first, & was assisted by firefighters from Bainbridge, Oxford, Greene, Guilford, Harpursville, Afton, Masonville & Sidney, along with several Broome County Fire Companies. No injuries were reported, The nearby Carriage House was not affected, the Cause of the fire is under investigation.

Governor Hochul declared a state of emergency aimed at increasing hospital capacity and addressing medical staffing shortages as the nation braces for the new omicron variant of the coronavirus. The new protocols will take effect December 3rd, and the order will remain in place at least until January 15th, when it will be reassessed. The emergency declaration will allow the state Department of Health to limit nonessential and non-urgent hospital procedures in situations where a hospital has less than 10% staffed bed capacity. The order will also expand state purchasing capability to obtain emergency medical supplies.

P.M. News Friday 11-26-21

State Police and local law enforcement agencies will continue with their special traffic safety initiative to prevent unsafe driving behavior during the holiday weekend. Temporary lane closures for road and bridge construction projects are suspended statewide through Monday morning; State Police will supplement regular patrols statewide with dedicated impaired driving patrols with sobriety checkpoints, underage drinking enforcement and the use of Concealed Identity patrol vehicles to locate drivers talking or texting on handheld devices.

The New York State Consumer Protection Board & area Law Enforcement Agencies are reminding residents of a few tips to avoid getting shipped items stolen from your front porch of steps this year. Residents are advised to Keep track of packages, as many retailers or Delivery companies like Federal Express or UPS offer online shipping details the holidays. Also, Beware of phishing attempts, where scammers will send emails and text messages and impersonating delivery companies, or banking and credit card companies, or large retailers, which may include links to sites attempting to steal your banking information. More information is available at https://dos.ny.gov/consumer-protection

A.M. NEWS FRIDAY 11-26-21

The American Red Cross continues to report Blood Shortages, they are asking eligible residents to donate blood, a blood drive is being held today in Oneonta from 12:00 PM to 6:00 PM at the Elm Park Methodist Church on Chestnut Street & in Cooperstown from 12:30 to 6:30 PM at Bassett Hall, appointments can be made by using the Red Cross Blood Donor App, visiting RedCrossBlood.org or calling 1-800-RED CROSS.

Delaware County Public Health reported 2 more COVID Deaths, for Tuesday & Wednesday, bringing the total to 76 for the pandemic. Delaware County still reports a high positivity rate of almost 10.5%, there were 55 new cases of COVID, 227 active cases, 10 hospitalized & 403 quarantined. 53.2% of County residents are fully vaccinated, 76% of cases are not vaccinated.

P.M. NEWS WEDNESDAY 11-24-21

4 Towns Forward & local Chambers of Commerce are urging area Holiday shoppers to shop local on Small Business Saturday, Sidney Chamber & 4 Towns Forward President Teri Schunk comments.

(Teri Schunk 11-24-21)

For every dollar spent at a small business, American Express estimates an average of 67 cents stays in that business's local community, plus many small businesses are trying to rebound after the pandemic shut down many retailers in 2020.

The State Health Department continues to monitor the surge in COVID 19 cases statewide. Over 178,000 people were tested Monday with 7166 positive, just over 4% of all tested. Hospitalizations continue to increase, to 2580, the number in an ICU bed is just under 500 again & the number on Ventilators is 242, there were 31 deaths from COVID in Hospitals & Nursing homes Monday.

A.M. NEWS WEDNESDAY 11-24-21

State Police and local law enforcement agencies will participate in a special traffic safety initiative to prevent unsafe driving behavior during the Thanksgiving weekend today through Sunday. temporary lane closures for road and bridge construction projects on New York State highways will be suspended beginning Wednesday, Nov. 24 at 6 am. through Monday, Nov. 29 at 6 am. The State Police will supplement regular patrols statewide with dedicated impaired driving patrols including Drug Recognition Experts, fixed sobriety checkpoints, underage drinking enforcement, speed enforcement, and the use of Concealed Identity Traffic Enforcement patrol vehicles to better locate drivers talking or texting on handheld devices.

P.M. NEWS TUESDAY 11-23-21

Chenango County Public Health confirmed 4 more COVID-19 attributed deaths in the county from COVID 19, bringing their total number of deaths to 91 spokesman Isaiah Sutton comments:

(Isaiah Sutton 11-23-21)

Chenango County continues to have COVID 19 numbers as high, or higher than the numbers they were getting in January of this year, there are 238 active cases, 1/3 of which are fully vaccinated, 5 are hospitalized and 582 are quarantined.

Governor Kathy Hochul today announced that over $81 million has been awarded to support 97 priority projects across New York State through the Regional Economic Development Council initiative. Locally, in the Southern Tier, Buckingham Manufacturing will be able to purchase New equipment, The Delaware County IDA will expand the existing Andes food hub, “Catskills Harvest,” to include an advanced geothermal and solar powered carbon-neutral greenhouse & also for the Delhi Industrial Wastewater Pipeline to address environmental concerns , and Finback Brewery will re-develop a 320-acre farm in the Town of Walton into a brewery, taproom, orchard, and modern bed & breakfast.

U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand announced her bipartisan More Options to Develop and Enhance Remote Nutrition in WIC Act today.

(Gillibrand 11-23-21)

In the first year of the pandemic, WIC providers reported a 2.5% increase in WIC participation, and more than 360,000 low-income New Yorkers continue relying on this social safety net to feed themselves and their families. To keep up with the growing need, Gillibrand’s bill would codify 2 waivers granted through the Families First Coronavirus Response Act that simplified user access to WIC benefits by offering remote services, and it would also invest $60 million to modernize the critical safety net program.

A.M. NEWS Tuesday 11-23-21

Delaware County Public Health reported 3 more COVID deaths, bringing their total up to 74 during this pandemic. Delaware County had 70 more positive cases of COVID 19 during the latest reporting period of Saturday through Monday, there are now 265 active cases, 12 hospitalized & 366 quarantined. 53.2% of the total Delaware County population are vaccinated while 73% of the positive cases are unvaccinated, 32% of the cases are in public schools among students & staff.

The Windsor Central School District will hold a special vote on two propositions today; the 1st is a $27.5-million-dollar Capital Improvement Project with 85% state aid & capital reserves covering the costs. The 2nd proposition is for the purchase of three 66-passenger buses at a cost not to exceed $390,000 dollars, the new buses would replace old busses with high mileage, and State aid would cover 90% of the cost with the rest coming from the district's annual budget. More information is available at windsor-csd.org

P.M. NEWS MONDAY 11-22-21

The Greater Binghamton Sport Complex on Airport Road in the Town of Maine had its roof collapse Sunday, for the 2nd time in less than a year. The roof collapsed last December after snowfall, the structure was replaced and the roof collapsed during construction Sunday Afternoon. No injuries were reported & the investigation into the latest collapse is ongoing.

Binghamton Rumble Ponies announced a 23-year lease extension at Mirabito Stadium early Thursday morning; they also announced that John Hughes & his Evans Street Baseball group have sold the Binghamton Rumble Ponies to Southpaw Resources LLC, led by David Sobotka. Binghamton Rumble Ponies Spokesman JB Bayne told WCDO news what the 23 year agreement & new ownership is all about:

(JB Bayne 11-22-21)

Bayne said that $3.1Million Dollars has been allocated to bring the facility into compliance with MLB's new Facility Standards, and the new lease carries into the year 2045. Hughes, has owned the Binghamton Rumble ponies for the last 6 years.

Governor Kathy Hochul announced the distribution of 3,200 Turkeys statewide, for New Yorkers facing food insecurity issues on Thanksgiving. Various corporations donated over $100,000 dollars to the turkey distribution program, the turkeys will be distributed throughout every region of the State thanks to the donations and a partnership with Feeding New York State.

13 new candidates will be appearing on the 2022 National Baseball Hall of Fame ballot that is being mailed this week to approximately 400 voting members of the Baseball Writers’ Association of America. Among the players now eligible; Alex Rodríguez, Justin Morneau, Ryan Howard and Jimmy Rollins; pitchers Tim Lincecum and Jake Peavy; and DH-first baseman David Ortiz will join 17 holdovers from the 2021 balloting, which failed to produce a new Hall of Famer. Candidates must be named on 75% of ballots cast by selected Baseball Writers of America members, Induction Weekend will be July 22nd to the 25th in Cooperstown, Voting Results to be Announced at 6 p.m. ET Jan. 25 Live on MLB Network.

The State Assembly released their report regarding their impeachment investigation into former Governor Andrew Cuomo. The legislative investigation found overwhelming evidence that Cuomo engaged in sexual harassment many times and ordered state workers to help produce his book on the COVID-19 pandemic during their normal work hours. The former governor was guaranteed at least $5.2 million in personal profit for the book, the investigation into whether the Governor will have to return that money is ongoing.

A.M. NEWS MONDAY 11-22-21

Broome County DA Michael Korchak announced that a jury in Broome County Court found Scott Mawhiney guilty Friday for the attempted murder of New York State Trooper Ryan Thorp in Deposit. Mawhiney was also found guilty of and aggravated assault of a police officer, criminal possession of a weapon, and 2nd-degree harassment. Trooper Thorp was shot by Mawhiney, when he was responding June 23rd to a domestic dispute in Deposit, Mawhiney faces sentencing at a later date.

Delaware County Public Health reported 2 more COVID 19 deaths in their report covering Thursday & Friday; they are now up to 71 deaths since the pandemic began. Delaware County reported 59 new cases, 219 active cases and 386 quarantined, 10 are hospitalized, their positivity rate was 10.4%, and only 53% are fully vaccinated.

State Police responded to a report of a vehicle into a pond in the town of Laurens. An investigation revealed that a 56-year-old male of Hopewell Junction, NY swerved in an attempt to avoid a deer. He went off the roadway and into a pond. The man was not injured. The New York State Police Underwater Recovery Team responded to assist in removing the Dodge Challenger out of the pond. State Police remind motorists that if a deer enters the roadway brake firmly and calmly and stay in your lane. Swerving can cause you to lose control of the vehicle. If you do hit a deer, pull off to the side of the road as soon as it’s safe to do so. Turn on your hazard lights, stay in the car & Call local police.

P.M. NEWS THURSDAY 11-19-21

Chobani has filed paperwork for an initial public offering, which would allow them to become a publicly-traded company on the stock market. Bloomberg News reported that the company listed the size of the offering as $100 million, 5 years ago; Chobani gave 2,000 employees shares that would amount to 10% of the company’s future value in the event of a Public Offering.

New York Farm Bureau's 2021 Market Basket Survey shows the price of a traditional Thanksgiving dinner saw a modest uptick from last year's meal. The average total price, which includes a 16-pound turkey and other common items found on a holiday dinner table, is $52.59, a 1.7% increase over last year. Turkey prices are about $1.46 per pound in New York State, which is about five cents per pound over last year's average price there were small price increases for whipped cream, Pumpkin Pie Mix, fresh cranberries, and a veggie tray, the biggest decrease is for sweet potatoes. The Farm Bureau reported that the higher costs do not trickle down to the farmer, who receives only about 8 cents of each dollar consumers spend on food at the store.

The Bainbridge Chamber of Commerce will be doing a Collection for Toys for Tots on Saturday, December 11th. The Bainbridge Christmas Parade will be at 5:00 pm and they will have a pickup with Toys for Tots banner at the Firehouse for Collection, all donated Toys must be new & unwrapped. The Chamber will also have another collection on Sunday, December 12th during our Christmas Caroling at 5:00 pm behind Bob's Diner.

According to preliminary figures released today by the State Department of Labor, the number of private sector jobs in New York State increased to over 7.5 million in October. The State's seasonally adjusted unemployment rate decreased from 7.1% to 6.9% in October.

A.M. NEWS Thursday 11-18-21

The Chenango County Health Department is offering a Pfizer Vaccine clinic for children ages 5 and up on November 18th from 3:00 to 5:00 PM in Norwich at the Old Label Shopper store location in the South Plaza. More information is available at co.chenango.ny.us. vaccine clinics ARE ALSO EXPECTED TO Be conducted at local School Districts in December & January.

Delaware County Public Health reported another COVID 19 death in today's report, covering Tuesday & Wednesday, with 46 new cases, 226 active cases and 328 quarantined, they will be conducting a COVID-19 vaccination clinic today at 97 Main Street, Delhi from 2:00 to 4:00 PM. This clinic is open to people over the age of 18. Boosters will be available at this clinic, appointments are required for all Moderna Boosters at apps2.health.ny.gov. COVID vaccines are also available for people or completing their first series, more information is available by calling Delaware County Public Health at 607-832-5200.