WCDO Radio News

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

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

A.M. NEWS Thursday 12-10-20

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

P.M. NEWS FRIDAY 11-20-20

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

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

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

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

(Teri Schunk 11-20-20)

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

(June White 11-20-20)

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

During a Zoom press conference with New Mets Owner Steve Cohen & Mets President Sandy Alderson, it was announced that the Mets' minor league affiliates going forward will be AAA in Syracuse, AA in Binghamton & Single A teams in Brooklyn & St. Lucie, low A teams in Kingsport and Columbia will no longer be affiliated with the New York Mets.

A.M. NEWS TUESDAY 11-10-20

A reward of $50,000 has been posted by the FBI in connection with the investigation into the fatal shooting of 50-year-old Shakeel Khan in Johnson City. Khan was shot as he was closing up his restaurant Halal Bites at 652 Riverside Drive on March 30th 2019.

State Police need the public’s assistance in locating a missing vulnerable adult. 44 year old Gregory Gale Jr. left his home in Endwell Sunday at approximately 10:45 a.m. He regularly walks to the Speedway on East Main Street and was there around 11 a.m. Sunday but has not returned home. Gale is a 44-year-old autistic male, with a mental development of a 5-year-old. He moved to the area only a few months ago from Staten Island and does not know the area well. Gale is a light skinned black male, with brown eyes, a mustache and a goatee. He has black hair which is in a short afro style. Gale is approximately 6 feet tall and weighs approximately 260 to 270 pounds. He was last seen wearing a green camo jacket, light blue jeans and black sneakers. Anyone who sees Gale, should call the State Police at Endwell at 754-2701 or at Binghamton at 775-1241.

Otsego County Department of Health reported 8 new cases reported Monday, bringing them up to 1068 total confirmed cases, with 42 active cases, no hospitalizations & 8 deaths. 755 cases are linked to SUNY Oneonta & 63 confirmed cases are in Hartwick College students.

P.M. NEWS MONDAY 10-26-20

Governor Cuomo held a COVID 19 briefing in Albany today, the state conducted over 82,000 tests on Sunday, with 1191 new positive cases statewide. The state remains at over 1000 hospitalized, with 1059, the highest numbers since May, there are 237 in ICU Beds, 118 are on ventilators, and there were 12 more deaths Sunday, bringing the state death toll to 25,742. The Governor talked about how they continue to attack the micro clusters when they pop up, keeping the cases in a much smaller area:

(Cuomo 10-26-20)

The Governor announced today that The RealReal is working with top fashion designers, who are going to design masks; the RealReal is going to make them available through their website, and the profits from the mask sales will go to charities. The campaign goes for five weeks at RealReal.com.

With the Passing of Country Music Legend Jerry Jeff Walker, the idea has resurfaced to memorialize the Oneonta native in his hometown. Previous administrations have liked the idea, but could not appropriate the necessary $20,000 in funding, to put up a bandstand in Muller Plaza, but Long time area broadcaster & performer Doug Decker has started a GoFundMe page to get the necessary funds for the project:

(Doug Decker 10-26-20)

Decker is hoping that some local business owners may come forward as well & help make the Jerry Jeff Walker Bandstand possible.

Delaware County Sheriff's Deputies responded Early Sunday morning, to a domestic dispute in the village of Downsville. Deputies arrested 33 year-old Amandamarie Herzog of Downsville for harassment, 2 counts of endangering welfare of child, 1 count of criminal obstruction of breathing or blood circulation and 2 felony counts of criminal mischief. Herzog was arraigned virtually & was released in her own recognizance & will appear in the Town of Colchester Court on a later date, an order of protection was issued for the victim.

Otsego County Department of Health announed that they had 19 cases of COVID 19 reported over the weekend, 9 of the cases are college students. The County now has 975 total confirmed cases, with 36 active cases, 1 hospitalization, 7 deaths, 751 cases linked to SUNY Oneonta & 30 confirmed cases in Hartwick College students

A Broome County Grand Jury has indicted 45 year-old Larry Harris of Johnson City on 2 charges of predatory sexual assault against a child and 2 counts of rape.  Broome County District Attorney Mike Korchak said that Harris was already being held in the Broome County Jail facing murder and manslaughter charges for the death of 11 year-old Jerome Smith in February of 2019.  The new charges were filed after a victim came forward accusing Harris of sex crimes between 2013 and 2019, Harris will be tried separately on the new charges.

State Police and local law enforcement agencies statewide will be ramping up enforcement of impaired driving today through Labor Day, Monday, September 7th with their annual "Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over" campaign is designed to reduce alcohol and other drug-related traffic crashes.  Law enforcement will be stepping up patrols, and the NYS Thruway Authority and State Department of Transportation will have Variable Message Signs alerting motorists to the consequences of impaired driving to help deter that behavior. During the 2019 enforcement campaign, law enforcement throughout the state issued 4,995 tickets for impaired driving and 170,378 tickets for other vehicle and traffic law violations.

State Police and a Delaware County deputy were dispatched to a reported burglary in the town of Kortright where the homeowner told troopers a man & woman left the scene & that their residence in the town of Meredith had also been burglarized & a vehicle had been stolen.  The stolen vehicle was found at the Quality Inn of Oneonta, police arrested 34 year old Amber Weaver of Bloomville and 33 year old Christiaan Stewart of Bloomville for Burglary, Grand Larceny & Criminal Possession of Stolen Property, and Weaver was additionally charged with Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance.  Both were arraigned and were remanded to the Delaware County Jail on $30,000 cash bail or $60,000 bond.

Governor Cuomo announced that the Special Enrollment Period for uninsured New Yorkers will be extended for another 30 days, through September 15, 2020, as the State continues to provide supportive services during the COVID-19 public health crisis. New Yorkers can apply for coverage through nystateofhealth.ny.gov, by phone at 1-855-355-5777, and by connecting with a free enrollment assistor.

Congressman Anthony Brindisi will Host a Telephone Town Hall on Tuesday, July 7th at 5:00 p.m.   Constituents are encouraged to RSVP at brindisi.house.gov/live to receive the call or dial-in at 5:00 p.m. to 855-614-0159

The Binghamton Rumble Ponies will host their Bing Bang Boom Fireworks Show tonight at 7:30 p.m. at NYSEG Stadium.  Gates open at 6:00 p.m. with the movie at 7:30 p.m.  Due to COVID-19 restrictions, NYSEG Stadium will be operating at a limited seating capacity; Tickets are on sale at bingrp.com.

Hundreds of owners of Gyms, Spas, Fitness Centers & Health Clubs are planning to file a class action lawsuit against the Governor Cuomo & the State next week, as they have not yet been allowed to open in any of the phases of reopening.  Anna Banks of My Home Gym in the town of Bainbridge told WCDO News that they are part of that action:

(Anna Banks 7-3-20)

Owners of malls around the state have lodged similar complaints about re-opening as the gyms have, Currently; businesses are advised by the state to follow guidelines at forward.ny.gov.

State Police and local law enforcement agencies will increase patrols to crack down on drunk and drugged driving and other traffic infractions during the 4th of July holiday through Sunday. State Troopers will conduct sobriety checkpoints and target reckless and aggressive driving statewide, Drivers should also remember to "move over" for stopped emergency and hazard vehicles on the side of the road. Last year, the State Police issued nearly 13,410 tickets during the 4th of July weekend; they arrested 249 people for DWI and investigated 187 crashes, which resulted in 2 fatalities.

Governor Cuomo announced state outdoor pools across New York will open for swimming for the July 4 weekend under the standard operating schedule of the New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation. Pool-goers are reminded to practice social distancing, respect the rules, and do their part to keep the pool area safe for everyone. Pool capacity will be reduced, the list of swimming area at state parks can be found at parks.ny.gov.

The Chenango County Health Department announced their Coronavirus numbers for today, they have had 146 positive cases, there are 25 people under Quarantine, no one is Hospitalizations, there have been 6 deaths, 137 Recoveries & the Total number of Tests Performed is 10907.

New York State has joined with New Jersey and Connecticut in jointly issuing a travel advisory for anyone returning from states that have a significant spread of COVID-19.   All travelers entering New York who have recently traveled within a state with either a positive test rate or a testing positivity rate of higher than a 10% over a 7-day rolling average, will be required to quarantine for 14 days. Analysis of the metrics will be conducted weekly to determine if travelers from other states qualify.

State Department of Labor Commissioner Roberta Reardon announced that as the Southern Tier continues to reopen there are a growing number of positions available on the Jobs Express website, at jobs.ny.gov. Currently more than 4,400 jobs are available in a number of different fields from businesses looking to hire immediately.

Regatta Row 2020 is going forward this summer.  11 adult canoe paddle Adirondack chairs, 8 child sized chairs and 1 double chair will be going out on the sidewalks in front of businesses along North and West Main in Bainbridge starting today, along with some mini canoe paddles painted by area young people. The chairs and paddles will go to auction online from July 5 at noon until August 7 ending at 10:00 pm at 32auctions.com.

Major League Baseball has informed Minor League Baseball that it will not be providing its affiliated Minor League teams with players for the 2020 season, there will not be a Minor League Baseball season in 2020.  The Binghamton Rumble Ponies are currently exploring plans to host other events at NYSEG Stadium this summer, all fans holding tickets for the 2020 Season may call The NYSEG Stadium Box Office to receive a refund Monday through Friday, between the hours of 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM.

The Board of Directors for the Delaware County Fair announced today, that the Annual County Fair in Walton is cancelled this year, spokesman Jason Craig explains:

(Jason Craig 6-30-20)

Craig said that they are going forward to plan for the 2021 Delaware County Fair in Walton in August of 2021.

Syracuse native & former area businessman Robert Raide died on June 18th in Canandaigua, he owned Raide Canvas Company in Syracuse & was the founder & Principal Owner of WCDO, which went on the air on May 8th 1982, until he sold it to the current ownership group that includes Craig Stevens, in 1986.  Raide was 76.

The Village of Unadilla announced that the Village playground will be open from 9:00 AM-12:00 PM and 1:00 PM-5:00 PM. The playground equipment will be sanitized every day between 8-9 AM and 12:00-1:00 PM. This playground equipment will be closed during this time to allow the cleaner to dry.  Also, the Tennis Court is opened on 1 side at this time; they are working to open up both sides shortly.

3 people have been arrested after the discovery of illegal fireworks in their vehicle.  On June 27th, State Police arrested 29 year old Leon Tryon and 25 year old Garett Lavalley, both of Wolcott, NY.  They were each charged with Unlawfully Dealing with Fireworks and Dangerous Fireworks.  A third person was charged with a violation level offense for Possessing a Firework or Dangerous Firework.   A trooper monitoring traffic on I-81 in Kirkwood observed Tyron make a vehicle and traffic infraction. A stop was initiated and an investigation led to the discovery of $900 worth of illegal fireworks.  All 3 were processed and issued appearance tickets to the town of Kirkwood court on July 15th.

State Police arrested 35 year old Holly Cornell of Berkshire for Unlawfully Dealing with Fireworks and Dangerous Fireworks, after a trooper monitoring traffic on I-81 in the town of Kirkwood initiated a traffic stop after a traffic violation, troopers located over $2,000 worth of illegal fireworks in Cornell’s possession, she was released on appearance tickets to the town of Kirkwood court on July 7th.

The New York State Board on Electric Generation Siting and the Environment will meet by a Webcast at 10:30 AM Today, which can be heard at dps.ny.gov/Webcasts.  The Siting Board agenda includes the Application of High Bridge Wind, LLC for a Certificate of Environmental Compatibility and Public Need Pursuant to Article 10 to construct a Wind Powered Electric Generating Facility in the Town of Guilford.

State Senator Jen Metzger announced that her staff will hold a Mobile Office event on Tuesday, June 30th from 10:00 AM to 1:00 PM in Delhi.  Appointments are required, they can be scheduled by emailing cordella@nysenate.gov More information is available by calling (845) 344-3311.

The State Department of Transportation will host a virtual public hearing by videoconference with a phone-in option for the upcoming bridge replacement project in the Towns of Fenton and Barker in Broome County; and the Town of Greene in Chenango County.  The Hearing will be held today, at 5:00 pm at dot.ny.gov/NY79ChenangoRiverBridge

NBT Bank is moving forward on a plan that restores lobby access by appointment while enacting new protocols to protect the safety of its employees and customers.  The phased approach to reopening branch lobbies includes a market-by-market analysis of conditions, close coordination with local government and health officials and strict adherence to state and federal guidelines. Customers are encouraged to visit www.nbtbank.com/access to learn about their preferred branch hours and service options.

The Arc Otsego has been awarded $60,000 in grants from the Trustee Management Board of NYSARC Trust Services to support The Arc Otsego’s guardianship* and recreation programs for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities who would not otherwise have a legal guardian or advocate. More information about The Arc Otsego is available at arcotsego.org.

Delaware County IDA announced a $25,000 Business expansion loan for Greentopia farms of East Meredith.  The company started last year & has taken a former factory building & is growing mushrooms of various types for gourmet food applications, more information about their mushrooms is available at 718-483-4675.

The Next American Red Cross Blood Drive will be held today in Oneonta from 12 p.m. - 6 p.m., at the Elm Park Methodist Church, 401 Chestnut St.  Donation appointments can be made by downloading the free Blood Donor App, visiting RedCrossBlood.org, calling 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767) or enabling the Blood Donor Skill on any Alexa Echo device.

Graduations ceremonies will be held at some area schools today & tomorrow.  The Hancock seniors will have their ceremony this morning at 10:00 AM @ the football field, Afton seniors will have a graduation car parade at 4:30 this afternoon, Gilbertsville-Mount Upton will celebrate at 5:30 PM on the school grounds.  Milford seniors will celebrate at 6:00 PM, Sidney at 6:30 on the Athletic Field, Deposit at 7:00 PM on their football field, Franklin 7:00 PM at Franklin Stage Company & Morris at 7:00 PM.  Saturday celebrations include Oneonta Seniors in 3 ceremonies beginning at 10:00 AM, the Delaware Academy at 10:00 AM, Norwich at 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM at High School field, South Kortright at 1:00, Unadilla Valley Central School District at 2:00 PM in the Gym & Bainbridge Guilford at 7:00 PM on the lawn.

(UPDATE)

Governor Cuomo announced that 5 regions, including the Southern Tier; are on track to enter Phase 4 of reopening on Friday. Commerce Chenango President & CEO Kerri Green told WCDO News about the Phase 4 reopening:

(Kerri Green 6-25-20)

Green hosted a webinar with local officials covering more details about the reopening; the webinar was recorded this afternoon & is available for viewing on YouTube or at the Commerce Chenango Facebook page.  More information is available at forward.ny.gov/phase-four-industries.

The National Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum is preparing to reopen its doors on Friday, June 26, in accordance with New York State’s regionally-focused phased reopening plan and with many enhanced health and safety procedures.  The Hall of Fame will be open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.  Timed admission tickets will be available for purchase at baseballhall.org for visitors to reserve a specific date and time to enter the Museum, alleviating congestion in the front lobby and throughout the Museum. More information will be posted on the Hall of Fame’s website, baseballhall.org.

The Binghamton Rumble Ponies will hold their annual tradition of fireworks at NYSEG Stadium on July 3rd, with July 4th as a rain date.  Gates will open at 6:00 PM and guests will be treated to a free movie at 7:30 PM with fireworks following immediately after. Gates to NYSEG Stadium will open at 6:00 PM, Fans will be allowed to bring in blankets, pillows for comfort, & they will also be allowed to bring in outside food and beverage.   social distancing will be observed, spectators will also be required to wear a face mask, Tickets will be available online at bingrp.com or at 607-722-3866.

State Senator Jen Metzger announced that her staff will hold a Mobile Office event on Tuesday, June 30th from 10:00 AM to 1:00 PM in Delhi.  Appointments are required, they can be scheduled by emailing cordella@nysenate.gov More information is available by calling (845) 344-3311.

Governor Cuomo today announced that 5 regions, including the Southern Tier; are on track to enter Phase 4 of reopening on Friday. New York State issued guidance for Phase IV, which will allow low-risk indoor and outdoor arts and entertainment, film and TV production, higher education and professional sports without fans. More information is available at forward.ny.gov/phase-four-industries.

Commerce Chenango will present their next webinar regarding the Phase 4 Reopening, today at 3:30 p.m.   Presenters include Commerce Chenango President & CEO Kerri Green, who stopped by to WCDO this morning & discussed some of the changes coming in the Reopening process:

(Kerri Green 6-25-20)

Green will discuss the changes at length this afternoon with the Zoom webinar; she will be joined by members of the Chenango County Health Department, Chenango County Emergency Services Manager Matt Beckwith along with Guest Speaker Jessica Moquin of the Chenango County Historical Society.  Pre-registration is required by emailing register@chenangony.org.  The webinar will also be recorded & will be available through the Commerce Chenango Facebook page.

Governor Cuomo concluded his 111 day string of Coronavirus briefings today in Albany; he reminded New Yorkers that although the state now has the lowest infection rate, 22 states are still seeing large increases in positive cases & New Yorkers must remain vigilant:

(Cuomo 6-19-20)

The state has 1284 people hospitalized, & is averaging about 25 deaths daily, the state death toll is 24, 686.  New York has had a total of 386,556 positive Coronavirus cases, currently just less than 1% are testing positive.

Congressman Anthony Brindisi announced a more than $1 million grant for Opportunities for Chenango. The funds are administered through the Department of Health and Human Services, & will be used for the Head Start Program.

Nick Libous is once again running for the Republican Party nomination in the 122nd Assembly District, following the announcement that Cliff Crouch was retiring after 25 years in the Assembly.  Libous Told WCDO News what his priorities are:

(Nick Libous 6-19-20)

Libous faces 3 other Republicans in the June 23rd Primary, James Powers, Vic Furman & Joe Angelino.

Otsego County is in receipt of hand sanitizer from New York State to be distributed to businesses that prove they have completed the business affirmation required on the NY Forward website.  Any business may request and receive two gallons of hand sanitizer and one pump for their business.  Businesses can contact the Otsego County Office of Emergency Services at 547-4227.

Governor Cuomo signed additional Police reforms into law today, The legislation stipulates that Officers must report weapon discharge within 6 hours, Police departments and courts must track arrest data, including race and ethnicity & Require police officers to provide for the medical and mental health needs of any person under arrest or in custody who requires it.

Governor Cuomo Held his latest Coronavirus update this morning he outlined some changes to regions in Phase 3 of Reopening, and 2 things to do going forward:

(Cuomo 6-15-20)

The Governor said the number of Hospitalizations from the Coronavirus is down to 1608, the number of deaths Sunday was 25, one of the lowest numbers since Mid-March, bringing the state death toll to 24,579; there have been just fewer than 384,000 coronavirus cases since early March.

Attorney General Letitia James today announced that her Office will make its Election Protection Hotline available for the upcoming June 23RD election and during New York's early voting period, which lasts from June 13 to June 21. The hotline will be available to troubleshoot and resolve a range of issues encountered by voters, including voting by absentee ballot due to the COVID-19 crisis or in-person at their polling place. Voters can report issues to the Attorney General's Office by calling 1-800-771-7755, submitting complaints online, or emailing election.hotline@ag.ny.gov.

State Comptroller Tom DiNapoli announced that due to the Coronavirus Pandemic, Local Sales Tax Collections across the state Dropped by more than 32% in the Month of May, from the previous year.  DiNapoli reported that Sales tax collections for counties and cities in May totaled $918 million, which was $437 million less than May of 2019, DiNapoli is one of many state leaders urging the federal government to make federal aid available to the states hardest hit by the pandemic.

Governor Cuomo announced today that many of the upstate counties, including all of our local counties,  will move into Phase 3 of the Reopening tomorrow, he asked that people still use caution & follow the guidelines, so that New York Does not see a Spike in Coronavirus cases like most of the other states did:

(Cuomo 6-11-20)

Businesses that can re-open in Phase 3 include Food Services & Personal Care, as long as they follow the Health Department Guidelines, More information about Phase 3 can be found at forward.ny.gov/phase-three-industries.

Governor Cuomo today announced that the State is Allowing Localities to Open Public Pools and Playgrounds at their Discretion Beginning Today, Social Distancing guidelines should be followed.

Commerce Chenango will host a webinar this afternoon, getting local businesses ready for a potential Phase 3 reopening shortly, Kerri Green of Commerce Chenango explains:

(Kerri Green 6-11-20)

The webinar will start at 4:00 PM; interested parties can register by email Register@chenangony.com, or by calling 334-1400.

Governor Cuomo gave his daily Coronavirus briefing this morning in New York City; he discussed the protesting & looting & instances of Police Brutality, which comes at a time when people should not be gathering in large groups to begin with:

(Cuomo 6-1-20)

State Health Commissioner Dr. Howard Zucker talked about the mass protests & the potential of an increase in Coronavirus Cases:

(Zucker 6-1-20)

Governor Cuomo said that State Police & the National Guard will be ready to respond tonight if there are any more outbreaks of violence in Cities across the state.

A report released by New York State Comptroller Tom DiNapoli found 50% of the contracts in 2019 between Not-for-Profit organizations and the state were not processed until after the contract start date. DiNapoli’s report showed that  50% were processed after their start or renewal dates, he recommends that State agencies make prompt contracting a priority, The Not-for-Profit Contracting Advisory Committee should meet regularly & that State agencies should use electronic means to pay promptly & pay any interest due with the first payment to avoid cash flow problems.

4 Towns Forward, which was a collaborative effort between the Sidney, Unadilla, Afton & Bainbridge Chambers, & My Home Gym, held their virtual 5k walk/run last week that ended Sunday, Teri Schunk of the Sidney Chamber of Commerce told WCDO how they did:

(Teri Schunk 6-1-20)

Schunk said that Donations will also go to the Bainbridge Community Center Construction, the Sidney Library, the Afton Community Theatre & the Unadilla Food Bank.

Governor Cuomo announced that State Attorney General Letitia James will be conducting an investigation into the protests and Violence across the state this weekend, in regards to the killing of George Floyd by Police in Minneapolis:

(Cuomo 6-1-20)

Protests turned violent in New York City, Rochester & Albany this weekend, State Police & the National Guard are ready to employ extra backup to police again tonight if needed.

State Senator Fred Akshar will be taking his Town Hall Meetings online for the 52nd Senate District through Zoom.  Residents who would like to participate in the virtual town hall meetings are asked to register at Akshar.NYSenate.Gov. When meetings are scheduled, participants in certain municipalities will be notified via email and phone.

Governor Cuomo is alerting New Yorkers they may receive a phone call where the Caller ID may say “NYS Contact Tracing” and they need to answer that call:

(Cuomo Tracers)

Governor Cuomo said that the state has added enough tracers through the help of foundations from former New York City Mayor Mike Bloomberg; most of the state has now been able to re-open as they have enough tracers to follow up on contacts of those who have been tested positive for the Coronavirus.

The Otsego County Department of Health has learned of a potential exposure to coronavirus at a public venue & they are now seeking to identify and notify individuals who attended a livestock auction at Unadilla Livestock 38 Maple Avenue in Unadilla on Saturday May 16th.   Otsego County Assistant Public Health Director Kim Schlosser told WCDO News that the auction was agricultural and was allowed to be open in Phase 1 of the Reopening:

(Kim Schlosser 5-22-20)

Schlosser said that an individual who lives in another county attended the auction from 1:30-9:30pm has since been confirmed to have COVID 19 & that individual was not wearing a mask.  Anyone who attended the auction, who develops symptoms, should contact their primary care provider, or the COVID Hotline at 547-5555 or the Otsego County Health Department at 547-4316 to get tested, also, if attendees know someone who attended the auction in the Amish community, to inform them of positive test & self-monitor for symptoms of the illness.

The New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation will open 16 beaches across the state for swimming today with lifeguards staffed at normal levels to ensure public safety. Beach-goers are reminded to practice social distancing, State Parks will limit parking and other means of entry to keep capacity at 50% or less,   Locally Glimmerglass State Park & Chenango Valley state park will be open from 11:00 Am to 7:00 PM over the Memorial Day Weekend, More information is available at parks.ny.gov/covid19.

The Sidney, Afton, Bainbridge & Unadilla Chambers of Commerce, 4 towns forward & My Home Gym are co-sponsoring the fundraising Wipe Out Covid-19 Virtual 5K Walk/Run, Starting tomorrow through May 31st. So far, about 400 people have signed up & Anna Banks of My Home Gym told WCDO how much money has been raised, and where it goes:

(Anna Banks 5-22-20)

Mike Banks of My Home Gym reminded participants to be careful & maintain Social Distancing during this event:

(Mike Banks 5-22-20)

The virtual 5K can be run or walked from any location; People can donate or get more information at runsignup.com/MyHomeGym2020 or call 320-4024.

Volunteers & donations are requested for the Bainbridge Community Center at 3 Prospect Street.  Officials are looking for monetary donations as well as skilled volunteers for concrete, carpentry, electrical, plumbers, painters, landscapers and laborers, they can email to mgermonddc@yahoo.com.  Monetary donations can be sent by check payable to Bainbridge Chamber of Commerce, note Community Center Donation in the memo section, and mail it to P.O. Box 2, Bainbridge, NY 13733.

According to the preliminary results from the U.S. Department of Labor’s business and household surveys for April 2020, the number of private sector jobs in New York State decreased over the month by 1,764,600, or 21.4 percent, to 6,467,600. This was the state’s largest monthly employment drop on record. Just under one-third of the monthly jobs decline occurred in leisure and hospitality, mostly in accommodation and food services.  In April 2020, New York State's seasonally adjusted unemployment rate increased from 4.1% to 14.5%, the largest recorded monthly increase since current record keeping began in 1976.

Today is day one of the Phase 1 of re-opening of many types of businesses following the shutdown during the early days of the coronavirus pandemic in March.  Kerri Green of Commerce Chenango said that many businesses will have to change the way they operate on many levels from this point on:

(Kerri Green 5-15-20)

Glen Nealis of Delaware County Economic Development said that one of the reasons this part of the state is part of the Phase 1 Re-Opening is that people & businesses took the warnings seriously:

(Glen Nealis 5-15-20)

Nealis said that the hardest part of the reopening of the state is the 4th phase, which would be the opening of businesses that rely on a large gathering of people, where social distancing is difficult.  Business can find out where they fit in, and how the 1st phase is going by logging onto forward.ny.gov.

Tomorrow, 4 upstate regions will begin the 1st phase of the Re-Opening, following the statewide shutdown as the Coronavirus began to spread in Mid-March.  Kerri Green of Commerce Chenango is part of the "Southern Tier Regional Control Room" overseeing the reopening, she commented about the process:

(Kerri Green 5-14-20)

The Southern Tier, Central New York, Mohawk Valley & the North Country will reopen starting tomorrow after meeting the 7 criteria established by the CDC  for safe re-opening, leaders have been appointed in each region to watch those 7 parameters, which can be viewed at forward.ny.gov. Governor Cuomo today said that there is some flexibility within the state guidelines for re-opening businesses, which will be figured out in accordance with the regional Control Rooms:

(Cuomo 5-14-20)

Businesses that will be allowed to re-open include in Phase 1 are Manufacturing, Construction, Agriculture, Forestry, Fishing and Hunting, Retail  with curbside or in-store pickup or drop off only, plus Wholesale Trade.

Helios Care is offering free Grief Counseling to anyone experiencing the loss of a loved one during the COVID-19 pandemic.  Spokesperson Alicia Rule explains:

(Alicia Rule 5-14-20)

More information is available at 432-5525 or on the Helios Care website at www.helioscare.org/grief.

Governor Cuomo gave his latest Coronavirus briefing today in Watertown, as 12 more upstate counties in the state will have a 1st phase "Re-Open" Friday, along with the Southern Tier, The Mohawk Valley Region & Central New York.  Governor Cuomo said that everyone will be keeping a watchful eye on the progress of the 1st 4 regions upon reopening:

(Cuomo 5-13-20)

The State Labor Department continues to work on getting all of the unemployment & pandemic Unemployment claims paid out as quickly as possible after an unprecedented demand on benefits due to the Pandemic shutdown & the addition of 3000 new employees to help tackle the load, according to Secretary to the Governor Melissa DeRosa:

(DeRosa 5-13-20)

Governor Cuomo said that people can log on daily & see how the re-opening is going with the 7 key criteria at forward.ny.gov/industries-reopening-phase.

Governor Cuomo further discussed the parameters for re-opening New York State by regions in phases; he said that 31 states & several Countries have re-opened with bad results:

(Cuomo 5-5-20)

The number of deaths in Nursing Homes for the Coronavirus has fluctuated since the crisis started, and after 2 months of data, the Governor's Aide Dr. Jim Malatras commented about changes to those numbers going forward:

(Dr. Jim Malatras 5-5-20)

New York State Health Department now confirms 321,192 Coronavirus positive tests, there are still over 9600 current hospitalizations, and another 230 people died Monday, bringing the state death toll to 19,645.

Congressman Anthony Brindisi announced more than $36 million for medical institutions in the 22nd district. Brindisi secured these funds through the bipartisan CARES Act. This is the second round of funding for the facilities and Brindisi vowed to fight for more dollars moving forward. Locally, Lourdes Hospital receives $6,599,000, Chenango Memorial Hospital gets $1,382,000 & the UHS Hospitals get $12,502,000

The State Department of Labor announced that it has distributed $3.1 billion in unemployment benefits to New Yorkers since the coronavirus pandemic started impacting New York businesses in early March. In total, more than 1.4 million New Yorkers have submitted completed applications for unemployment benefits since the crisis began, including traditional unemployment insurance and Pandemic Unemployment Assistance.  More information is available at dol.ny.gov.

State Police have received several reports of email scams that demand that the person who receives the email must pay a Bitcoin ransom in order to keep alleged sexually explicit videos from being sent to all the contacts in the person’s email and social media contacts.  The email contains personal information, sometimes the complainant’s password or a password similar to their actual password.    Police said that the emails are fake, & the recipient should not send any money, just ignore the email and change the password to your account, they also suggest that you do not open any links that you are not familiar with.  If you have lost money in a scam, contact the State Police or your local law enforcement.

Alpine Roofing in Sidney has converted 2500 snorkel masks into respirators for area health care professionals, Alpine owner Hans Hass explains:

(Hans Hass 4-23-20)

Hass said that he received technical assistance from Neil Anderson at BOCES, as well as from SUNY Binghamton & SUNY Delhi regarding the 3D printing aspect of the construction; some of the masks went to the Sidney EMS squad & UHS Hospitals.  More information is available at 563-9999

U.S. Senators Charles Schumer and Kirsten Gillibrand today announced $145,510 in federal funding to help offset the cost of preparing and responding to the coronavirus health crisis. The City of Binghamton received $87,502 and the City of Albany Courthouse received $58,008. The funding was allocated through the Department of Justice as part of the recently passed "CARES" Act.

A.M. NEWS Thursday 4-23-20

Governor Cuomo announced that the state is up to 257,000 cases of the Coronavirus with 15,302 deaths and just fewer than 16,000 people hospitalized for the virus.  The Governor stated Wednesday that this country needs to get back into the manufacturing of testing equipment, ventilators & PPE's going forward, instead buying all of those items from China:

(Cuomo 4-23-20)

Governor Cuomo also said that the state will implement a regional approach to opening up schools & businesses, based on the numbers associated with the Coronavirus around the state.

Governor Cuomo announced today that the state now has over 251,690 cases of the Coronavirus, Hospitalizations are down to 16,076 & the number of deaths statewide was 441 Monday, making the state death toll at 14,788. The Governor said that the plans going forward are for the re-opening of the state on a regional basis, they need to ramp up testing as soon as possible before sending people back to work, & then they must track down the people associated with anyone who tests positive:

(Cuomo 4-21-20)

The Governor said that some Hospitals will also be allowed to perform elective surgeries, where the Corona Virus is reported in much smaller number, and where the lack of activity led to some hospitals actually laying off employees in spite of the pandemic.

Helios Care will offer free bereavement counseling to anyone experiencing the loss of a loved one during the COVID-19 pandemic.  Spokesperson Alicia Rule explains:

(Alicia Rule 4-21-20)

More information is available at 432-5525 or on the Helios Care website at www.helioscare.org/grief.

State Senator Fred Akshar is asking constituents to answer his latest online survey regarding Reopening New York State, Questions include "Do you support or oppose a regional reopening plan for New York State versus a one-size-fits all approach for both upstate and downstate, & How do you feel about returning to restaurants and retail stores if Governor Cuomo eases the current restrictions.  The survey can be found at Akshar.NYSenate.Gov.

Governor Cuomo announced today that the Death Toll from the Coronavirus went up another 606 Wednesday, to a total of 12,252 people since the Pandemic hit the New York State about 6 weeks ago, while hospitalization decreased by 600 to 17,735.  Going Forward, Governor Cuomo said that the state is trying to keep the infection rate as low as possible, but still slowly allow people to go back to work & get the economy moving again:

(Cuomo 4-16-20)

Governor Cuomo said that the testing of people before they head back to work is crucial in keep the infection rate from going back to its peak of 1.2, which is where it was 2 to 3 weeks ago.  The Governor Also said that the New York On Pause initiative will be expanded to May 15th, and the Executive Order on wearing masks will take effect on Friday at 8:00 PM.

Commerce Chenango will hold their 2nd "Virtual Lunch" Webinar Series on "Zoom" this afternoon at 12:00 Noon.   Commerce Chenango CEO Kerri Green told WCDO News about today's presenters & topic:

(Kerri Green 4-16-20)

Green said that the virtual series is being offered free of charge and is open to the public. Participants are asked to support a local restaurant by ordering their to-go lunch prior to the webinar. To register, email "register@chenangony.org" or call 334-1402.  The 3rd in the series will be held Next Thursday April 23rd at 12:00 Noon, with the presentation from attorneys at Hinman, Howard & Kattell, LLP.

Governor Cuomo announced the submission of 53 vetoes from the Fiscal Year Enacted State Budget.  19 appropriations were fully expended, and 4 additional appropriations had minimal spending authority remaining. 22 appropriations are vetoed on unconstitutional grounds, and 8 were duplicative of other reappropriations for the same purpose. The full list of vetoes is available at governor.ny.gov.

New
York State put out a call for retired healthcare professionals to enlist in the
state's Coronavirus response & they also called on qualified medical &
nursing school students to enlist.
Governor Cuomo stated that 30,000 people have responded, but more are
needed, they can enlist health.ny.gov/assistance

State
Senator Fred Akshar and Assemblyman Cliff Crouch are not happy with a mailing
sent out by Republican Assembly Candidate Nick Libous, Assemblyman Crouch
comments:

(Cliff
Crouch 3-23-20)

Assemblyman
Crouch announced that he would not seek re-election after 25 years in the State
Assembly, leading to a number of candidates coming forward to replace him,
& he promptly endorsed former Norwich police chief, Fireman & Military
combat veteran Joe Angelino for his Assembly Seat.

President
Donald Trump has approved a major disaster declaration for New York due to the
coronavirus outbreak.  The FEMA announced
federal disaster assistance is available to New York to supplement coronavirus
recovery efforts.  The move makes federal
crisis counseling funds available to affected individuals in all areas of the
state.

The
Bainbridge Guilford Central School district announced that 1 member of their
staff has tested positive for the Coronavirus, they do not believe that there
was any contact at the school & there should be no risk to staff or
students at this time.  The investigation
is ongoing.

As New Yorkers prepare to set their clocks
forward one hour this Sunday for Daylight Saving Time, the Firemen's
Association of the State of New York is urging everyone to change the batteries
in their smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors. Homeowners with alarms
that have sealed, non-removable batteries should test the alarms to see if they
are functional.  Batteries should be
changed twice a year, because according to the National Fire Protection
Association, almost 3 of every 5 home fire deaths resulted from fires in homes
with no smoke alarms or without working smoke alarms. Last year New York State
led the nation in home fire deaths with 126 fatalities, more information is
available at fasny.com.

The DCMO BOCES Spelling bee will be held
tomorrow in at the SUNY Oneonta Goodrich Theater Saturday at 10:00 AM,
Spokesperson Martha Ryan comments:

(Martha Ryan 3-6-20)

Melodie of course is Melodie Loya of
Bainbridge, who made it into the top 50 the last 2 years at the Scripps
National Spelling Bee in Washington DC.  Ryan
also said that the fundraising effort is continuing to help the families of
tomorrow's winner, to make it to the Scripps competition & stay in
Washington for all the days of the event, more information is available at
335-1292.

Governor Cuomo has proclaimed today “Special
Olympics New York Day" as the nonprofit organization marks the 50th
anniversary of its founding.   Special
Olympics New York is the largest state chapter in the country, serving more
than 67,000 athletes across New York; more information is available at
specialolympicsNY.org.

The Broome County Sheriff's Office responded to an accident
in the town of Sanford, where the driver of a tractor-trailer collided with a
farm tractor Monday morning.  The
deceased has been identified as 32-year-old Cole Wood of Walton.   The preliminary investigation revealed that
Wood's tractor-trailer was carrying steel-I beams and the farm tractor hauling
a manure spreader & both were traveling south on State Route 41, the
tractor-trailer came upon the farm tractor and swerved into a ditch,  the momentum of the steel-I beams continued
to move them forward into the cab of the tractor-trailer, pinning Wood
inside.  The operator of the farm tractor
was not injured.  The tractor-trailer was
owned by Richard Gray Trucking of Bainbridge, The crash remains under
investigation.

Governor Cuomo today announced the first statewide free
fishing weekend in New York for 2020 will take place on this weekend, February
15th & 16th.  During the designated
days, residents and visitors are permitted to fish for free without a fishing
license.  More information is available
at dec.ny.gov/outdoor.

The State Medicaid Redesign Team II will convene its first
meeting of all members today at the Albany Capital Center. The MRT II will
identify changes to the State's Medicaid program within the upcoming State
Budget.  The meeting will be open to the
public and streamed live online at health.ny.gov.

The Delaware County IDA requests proposals to lease, buy
and/or develop a commercially-zoned corner lot, at the intersection of Meredith
and Main Streets in the village of Delhi.
The site has no environmental impairments, has municipal water and sewer
and is considered "shovel ready." There are no standing structures on
the property. The deadline for submission is March 31 with an anticipated award
date of May 1. Proposals and inquiries can be sent directly to Delaware County
IDA, 1 Courthouse Square, Suite 4, Delhi, 13753 or emailed to
evan.bowker@co.delaware.ny.us. More information is available at 832.5123