WCDO Radio News

P.M. NEWS MONDAY 10-12-20

Governor Cuomo announced that the state has administered 12 million COVID 19 tests, with over 91,000 tested Sunday, with 1029 positive tests. there were 13 COVID related deaths Sunday, giving the state 25,587 deaths since March. Hospitalizations, Patients in an ICU Bed & patients on ventilators have all been increasing in the last 2 weeks.

The Broome County Health Department announced another 93 positive COVID 19 cases Monday afternoon, giving them a total of 2386. They report 83 deaths, 1687 recoveries, and they are monitoring 3768 people. A full list of places where COVID 19 positive cases have been confirmed is available at gobroomecounty.com/hd/coronavirus/public_statements.

The Delaware County Chamber of Commerce announced that a State Senate District 51 event, featuring candidates Jim Barber and Peter Oberacker will be held on Wednesday, October 21, starting at 12:00 noon and a State Senate District 42 forum, featuring candidates Jen Metzger and Mike Martucci will be held on Thursday, October 22, starting at 10:00 am. Both events are free and open to the public through "Zoom", Connection information will be emailed prior to the event to all those who register to info@delawarecounty.org. The programs will be recorded for later viewing.

State Police arrested 73 year old Darrel Rich for 1st degree assault, in connection with a shooting in the town of Fenton on Saturday. State police reported that a 58-year-old woman was shot and was taken to Wilson Hospital in Johnson City. Rich was processed and transported to Broome County Central Arraignment, the shooting remains under investigation.

A.M. NEWS MONDAY 10-12-20

The Masonville Fire Department responded to a barn fire in Masonville Sunday on State Route 206. The fire started around 4:30 PM Sunday, 16 fire departments responded, the barn was filled with Hay, no people or animals were injured, it was completely destroyed, Delaware County Emergency Services is investigating the cause.

The Otsego County Department of Health announced that a cease & desist order was in place for the New York Harvest Festival & Freedom Fair at 397 County Highway 15 in Mount Vision Friday through yesterday. The event is in violation of 2 Executive Orders where events must limit all non-essential gatherings to 50 or fewer. Violation of the restrictions comes with a $15,000 fine and individuals who attend the event and do not wear face coverings may be subjected to a $1,000 fine, The issue has been turned over to law enforcement.

P.M. NEWS WEDNESDAY 9-16-20

Governor Cuomo announced that 652 new cases of COVID 19 were diagnosed Tuesday out of the 75,087 tests administered Bringing Statewide Total to 446,366.   Patient Hospitalization were up slightly to 483, 138 were in ICU Beds, 67 were on Ventilators there were 4 deaths, bringing the Total number of Deaths to 25,410

U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand Discussed legislation Tuesday to help veterans with diseases linked to burn pits or other toxic exposures, to obtain benefits from the VA:

(Gillibrand 9-16-20)

Gillibrand said that An Estimated 3.5 Million Veterans Could Have Been Exposed To Burn Pits That Spewed Toxic Fumes And Carcinogens Into The Air while serving overseas, the VA Is Denying Veterans' Benefits.

Village Elections were held Tuesday around the state.  Many area candidates ran unopposed, in the Unadilla mayor's race; write in candidate Jack Insinga defeated longtime incumbent mayor Dave Welch 36 to 29.  Trustees’ seats were won by Paul Baldwin & Joshua Palmer.  In Afton, incumbent Mayor Janice Nickerson won over write in candidate Mellissa Mathews, village board member Robert Humphrey defeated write in candidate Alexis VanBuren.

Governor Cuomo today announced that the Special Enrollment Period for uninsured New Yorkers will be extended through December 31, 2020, as the State continues to provide supportive services during the COVID-19 public health crisis. New Yorkers can apply for coverage through NY State of Health, New York State's health insurance marketplace, or directly through insurers.   Consumers can apply for coverage through NY State of Health online at nystateofhealth.ny.gov, by phone at 1-855-355-5777, and by connecting with a free enrollment assistor.

Volunteers are needed to assist with the Catholic Charities community food distribution Thursday in Sidney.  Those who would like to volunteer are advised to Carol Allen, at 563-8065, they should arrive to the Sidney Fire department site on River Street by 8:30 AM Thursday, and the food giveaway begins at 10:00 AM.

A.M. NEWS WEDNESDAY 9-16-20

Governor Cuomo announced that 6 states have been removed from the travel advisory requiring 14 day quarantines after arriving in New York State.  The Governor said that California, Hawaii, Maryland, Minnesota, Nevada and Ohio Are Removed.  The Full list is at coronavirus.health.ny.gov.

State Department of Health Commissioner Dr. Howard Zucker announced nursing homes in New York will be allowed to resume limited visitations for facilities that have been without COVID-19 for at least 14 days, a revision to the 28 day guidelines previously set by the federal Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services. This updated guidance will allow eligible visitation in approximately 500 of the state’s 613 nursing homes. The guidelines go into effect Thursday; they require visitors to present a verified negative test result within the last seven days. More information is available at health.ny.gov/facilities.

The Delaware County Chamber Of Commerce is holding their 2nd of 3 job fair events this afternoon in Delhi, Chamber President Ray Pucci Comments:

(Ray Pucci 9-16-20)

Pucci said that today & the final Job Fair on Friday will be held from 1:00 to 3:30 under the tents outside of the Chamber office at 5 1/2 Main Street in Delhi.  More information is available at delawarecounty.org.

Otsego County Department of Health announced 3 new cases were reported for COVID 19, 2 were close contacts of a positive and 1 had no identified exposure. Currently, the county reports 684 confirmed cases linked to SUNY Oneonta, 15 confirmed cases in Hartwick College students, there are 42 active cases currently residing in the county.  There have been 844 total confirmed cases & there are no hospitalizations.  There will be free rapid testing at the Armory in Oneonta from 9am-6pm today, call 547-4279 to register.

State Police at Oneonta arrested 26 year old Eric Meade of Oneonta for Petit Larceny, Criminal Possession of Stolen Property and Criminal Trespass, following a complaint of a theft in progress on South Side Drive in the town of Oneonta Sunday morning.  Troopers spotted Meade, who was in possession of coins that were allegedly stolen out of unlocked cars on South Side Drive.  The investigation also revealed he had also taken items from an unlocked vehicle on Glen Drive.  Meade was processed then released on appearance tickets to the town of Oneonta court on October 20, 2020.

P.M. NEWS MONDAY 9-14-20

Governor Cuomo Announced the 38th straight day of a COVID-19 Infection rate below 1% Sunday. Over 63,300 tests were conducted statewide Sunday, with 583 positive tests diagnosed, which was 0.92% of those tested. The state has had 444,948 positive tests since March; there were 4 COVID-19 related Deaths, the state's death toll if 25,394. Patient Hospitalization were at 464, there were 143 patients in ICU Beds, & 59 on ventilators.

Hartwick College will return to offering face-to-face as well as remote instruction on Wednesday, after a voluntary and precautionary 2-week, remote-only period. The college went to remote-only instruction following the COVID 19 outbreak at nearby SUNY Oneonta. Hartwick officials said that they had 12 total infection & the known active cases is 7 among Hartwick students, there were no infections to staff. Students who studied off campus for these two weeks will be invited to return on an appointment-only basis from September 16 through September 23; Returning students are required to complete a pre-arrival form, provide proof of a negative COVID test result from a test taken within 72 hours prior to their arrival, and be tested again upon arrival. More information is available at hartwick.edu.

The Midstate Athletic Conference voted to postpone all interscholastic athletics until January 4th, 2021, Upon the start of athletics in January, the MAC will follow the New York State Public High School Athletic Associations scheduled for condensed seasons for winter sports, Fall Sports then spring sports. Mac officials are hopeful that all athletic seasons will be able to be completed in their entirety. The Mac will continue its work to prepare for successful seasons & the will coordinate with state Public High Schools Athletic Associations officials, Section 4, local health departments & government authorities.

SUNY Oneonta announced that there were no new cases of COVID-19 Sunday. The total number of confirmed cases within the campus community is 723, currently, 10 students who have tested positive are in isolation on campus and 31 students are in quarantine on campus awaiting test results.

State police at Troop D along with the village of Camden Police responded to the Grape and Grog Restaurant in Camden for an accidental weapon discharge Saturday night. The investigation revealed that an off-duty Otsego County Deputy accidentally discharged one round from a handgun while seated at a table, it went through his pants, ricocheted off the floor, it struck a 10-year-old girl who was treated by EMS for a laceration to her right thigh and elbow, a 38-year-old woman was also treated at the scene for a minor injury to her right foot. The State Police investigation is continuing.

A.M. NEWS MONDAY 9-14-20

Governor Cuomo announced that Saturday's COVID 19 infection rate of 0.99 percent marked the 37th straight day that the rate has remained below 1%. Of the 72,668 test results reported to New York State yesterday, 725, or 0.99 percent, were positive, bringing the Statewide Total to 444,365. The number of Patient Hospitalization was 464, the number of ICU patients was 131, with 54 on Ventilators, and there were 6 deaths, bringing the state death toll to 25,390.

The Otsego County Department of Health, Bassett Healthcare Network & the State Department of Health have partnered to provide rapid testing to Otsego County residents, Tuesday & Wednesday from 9:00 am to 6:00 pm at the Oneonta Armory at 4 Academy Street. Pre-registration is requested at 547-4279.

Catholic Charities in Sidney and other area organizations have teamed up for another mass food distribution in Sidney later this week, Penny McKnight of Catholic Charities explains:

(Penny McKnight 9-14-20)

People are requested to come by car, but walk ups will also be allowed, Volunteers are needed to Thursday's event, more information is available at 604-4071.

Delaware County Chamber of Commerce is holding the 1st of 3 job fairs in front of their 5 1/2 Main street location today. Employers will be set up under tents, mask & social distancing protocols will be followed, and the Job fair runs today, Wednesday & Friday from 1:00 to 3:30 PM. More information is available at 746-2281 or delawarecounty.org.

P.M. NEWS FRIDAY 9-11-20

Governor Cuomo announced that Thursday was the 35th straight day that New York State's COVID-19 infection rate has been below 1 percent. There were 880 new cases diagnosed Thursday out of 89,722 tests, the number of positive tests since March is 442,791. The number of patients hospitalized for the virus was 474, with 120 in ICU beds & 54 on ventilators.  There were 5 deaths Thursday, bringing the state Death Toll to 25,382.

State Police are reminding residents to keep valuables out of their vehicles and to keep their unattended vehicles locked.  Troopers in the Oneonta area have recently responded to numerous complaints of vehicles that have been gone through and items have been taken.  Police remind residents to remain vigilant and report suspicious activity to 911.

Broome County Executive Jason Garnar submitted his proposed county budget by Zoom Thursday.  Broome County is facing hard economic times due to the economic shutdown following the COVID 19 pandemic earlier this year, a no -frills budget with a small tax decrease was forwarded by Garnar for consideration by the Broome County Legislature, all New York Counties are waiting to see if the next federal COVID relief package will finally contain aid to state & local governments.

The Board of Directors for the Village Bountiful have decided that they will open their new market in the Willow Bend Plaza at 1004 State Highway 7 in Unadilla later this month, Spokesperson Jakkie Bickos explains:

(Jakkie Bickos 9-11-20)

Bickos said that more information about the store or membership is available at villagebountiful.com.

A.M. NEWS FRIDAY 9-11-20

Otsego County Department of Health continues to investigate a large outbreak of Coronavirus involving SUNY Oneonta.  Over the past 2 days 14 new cases have been reported. Currently, there are 829 total confirmed cases with 665 cases linked to SUNY Oneonta, there were 11 confirmed cases in Hartwick College, and 2 have since recovered.  268 active cases are currently residing in the county, and there are no hospitalizations.

The State Labor Department announced that payments for the Lost Wages Assistance program, which provides an additional $300 in weekly benefits to unemployed New Yorkers, will begin next week. Up to 2.4 million New Yorkers are eligible for the program, including 435,000 who must submit an additional certification to qualify, the Certification System Launches today, Payments Begin on a Rolling Basis Next Week.

Delaware County Chamber of Commerce will hold a job fair spread out over 3 days next week in front of their office at 5 1/2 Main Street in Delhi, Chamber President Ray Pucci explains:

(Ray Pucci 9-11-20)

Pucci said that the representatives from County employers will have their own tents out front, from 1:00 to 3:30 Monday, Wednesday & Friday, masks & social distancing is required, more information is available at delawarecounty.org.

P.M. NEWS WEDNESDAY 9-9-20

Governor Cuomo announced that 576 new COVID 19 cases were discovered Tuesday out of more than 63,200 tests performed statewide, a rate of .91%, the 33rd straight day that the state has had 1% or less. 463 are hospitalized, 121 are in ICU beds & 59 were on ventilators, there were 3 deaths, bringing the state death toll to 25,370 over the last 6 months.

State Police arrested 48 year old Chrisanthon Santana of Bronx on September 2nd for Criminal Possession of marihuana, after a trooper monitoring traffic on I-88 in the town of Sidney observed a vehicle make several violations. A traffic stop was initiated on State Route 8, which resulted in the discovery of over 28 pounds of marihuana. Santana was virtually arraigned and released; he faces court action in the town of Sidney court on September 24th.

State Police arrested 35 year old Vincent Palmisano Jr. of Grand Gorge for Felony DWI, Aggravated Unlicensed Operation, Unlawfully Fleeing from a Police Officer in a Motor Vehicle, Reckless Driving and Resisting Arrest. A trooper on patrol in Grand Gorge observed Palmisano operating a motor vehicle, who the trooper knows from past experience to be unlicensed, Palmisano failed to comply and a pursuit was initiated and Palmisano drove into a yard, jumped out the vehicle and ran into the woods.

A foot pursuit ensued with the trooper and his K9 partner, Palmisano was bit by the K9 and taken into custody, he was virtually arraigned & was remanded without bail to the Delaware County Correction Facility.

U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand said today that the US Senate Republicans unveiled their so-called “skinny” relief package, which protects large corporations and leaves working Americans in the lurch:

(Gillibrand 9-9-20)

Gillibrand is calling on Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell to prioritize the needs of American families in the next COVID 19 relief package that will be voted on this week.

Otsego County Department of Health continues to investigate a large outbreak of Coronavirus involving SUNY Oneonta. On Tuesday, 16 new cases were reported; all are linked to SUNY Oneonta. The County reports 823 total confirmed cases, 701 confirmed cases linked to SUNY Oneonta, 11 confirmed cases in Hartwick College students, there are no hospitalizations.

State Police arrested 34 year old Robert Youngblood of South New Berlin, for Over-driving, Torturing and Injuring Animals, Criminal Contempt, Obstructing Governmental Administration and Making a False Statement. On August 16, a trooper was dispatched to Dunhams Cross Road in the town of Butternuts, where they discovered that a 6-month old pig had been shot multiple times with a pellet gun. The pig was alive but in obvious distress. Youngblood was additionally charged with violating an order of protection while he was in the trooper’s presence. Youngblood was issued appearance tickets to the town of Butternuts court for September 24th & to the town of Unadilla court for September 21st.

State Senator Jim Seward announced that Mallory Delaney of Oneonta has been chosen as the 2020 New York State Senate "Woman of Distinction" from the 51st senate district. Delaney practices internal medicine in Oneonta at Bassett Healthcare Network. She has been in practice for five years, and has particular areas of interest in addiction recovery and in the care of medically complex adults.

Delaware County Chamber of Commerce will hold a job fair spread out over 5 days next week in front of their office at 5 1/2 Main Street in Delhi, Chamber President Ray Pucci explains:

(Ray Pucci 9-9-20)

Pucci said that the representatives from County employers will have their own tents out front, masks & social distancing is required, more information is available at delawarecounty.org.

Delaware County Sheriff's Department arrested 6 people for a seasonal residence burglary in the Town of Andes On August 18th. Deputies responded to a seasonal home located on Shaver Hollow Road in the Town of Andes where the home owner reported discovering forced entry into his residence and the theft of a garden tractor. Deputies discovered the stolen tractor dismantled outside of a neighboring residence, they arrested 4 youths, ages 11 to 14 for 1 count each of burglary, criminal mischief & grand larceny, a 17 -year old was charged with criminal possession of stolen property, their grandmother, 61 year-old Kathleen Shaffer of Andes was charged with endangering the welfare of a child and criminal possession of stolen property. All face court action at a later date.

Governor Cuomo updated New Yorkers on the state's progress during the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. On Wednesday 87,900 tests were reported with 737 new positive tests diagnosed, giving the state a total of over 423,000 cases since March.  555 patients are hospitalized from COVID 19, with 124 patients in an ICU, & 56 on ventilators, there were 10 deaths Wednesday, bringing the death toll to 25,228.

The National Baseball Hall of Fame & Museum announced that the Inductees Exhibit for Class of 2020 is now on Display.  Career stories, artifacts photos & documents regarding inductees Derek Jeter, Marvin Miller, Ted Simmons and Larry Walker is now open and will remain on display through 2021 on the Museum’s third floor.  The Class of 2020 will be inducted along with any elected members of the Class of 2021, on July 25 2021 in Cooperstown.  More information is available at baseballhall.org/reopening.

The State Department of Labor announced that it has prevented more than $1 billion from falling into criminal hands during the coronavirus pandemic, by identifying and stopping more than 42,000 fraudulent unemployment benefit claims since mid-March.   The Department has referred more unemployment fraud cases to federal prosecutors since March, than it did in the last 10 years combined.  New Yorkers’ identities have been stolen during data breaches involving banks, insurance companies, and major employers, the criminals have filed fraudulent claims and illegally collect benefits in the name of individuals who are not unemployed; to report a fraud relating to the Labor Department, go to on.ny.gov/uifraud.

Delaware County Sheriff’s Deputies and the Delaware County Probation Department investigated allegations of Domestic violence from an Arkville woman and her Safe Against Violence advocate. 48-year-old Israel Rivera of Arkville was arrested for 3rd degree Assault, Criminal Obstruction of Breathing, Endangering the Welfare of a child, Aggravated Harassment and Criminal Contempt.  Following Rivera’s arrest, he was retaken by the Delaware County Probation Department on a County Court Warrant for violating probation; he was remanded to the Delaware County Jail pending an appearance in Delaware County Court.

The Otsego County Chamber of Commerce is hosting a "Drive Thru Job Fair!" this Today from 9:00 AM to 12:00 Noon in the parking lot of Damaschke Field.  25 local area employers will participate; Job Seekers will just drive in, follow the signs and traffic flow and remain in the car with your face mask on as you drive to each employer.  There is no fee to job seekers.

Governor Cuomo announced $15.1 million in federal funding is being made available to the State and county emergency management agencies to support planning and operational readiness for any type of disaster New York may experience. This funding is in addition to a $4.3 million supplemental grant already awarded to the state for similar efforts focused on the COVID-19 pandemic.  Locally Broome County receives $78,847, Chenango County gets $23,582, Delaware County receives $22,663 & Otsego County gets $27,920

Otsego County Department of Health reported 1 new case of COVID 19 Wednesday, bringing their total to 112.  there are 2 active cases, no one is hospitalized, 103 have recovered, and 21 people on quarantine for close contact to a case, 218 people on quarantine for traveling to a high risk state, there have been 6 deaths.

Governor Cuomo announced a Friday deadline for school districts that have not submitted plans for in-person learning yet. Currently, 107 school districts have not submitted a plan for the fall, last Friday Governor Cuomo said that all school district should be able to re-open in September, but they must submit plans to be approved by the Health Department & the State Education Department.  Local schools that did not submit a plan include:   Cooperstown, Richfield Springs & Worcester in Otsego County, and Andes & Margaretville in Delaware County.

Delaware County Sheriff's Deputies responded to a motor vehicle accident on State Highway 357 in Franklin Sunday evening, 51 year old Ronald Roof of Franklin was charged with Felony DWI, & aggravated unlicensed operation of a motor vehicle among many other charges.   Deputies      & EMS crews were dispatched to a report of a vehicle over an embankment, on State Highway 357 in the Town of Franklin, the operator of the vehicle had fled from the scene on foot.   Deputies located  Roof, the

investigation revealed that his driving privilege was revoked from a prior alcohol related offense and for failure to answer to summonses.  Roof was released & is scheduled to reappear in the Franklin Town Court on a later date.

Driving with a broken windshield and a suspended license resulted in a Delaware County Sheriff's Deputies arresting a Delhi man last Wednesday evening and charging him with Driving While ability impaired by drugs and felony aggravated unlicensed operation of a motor vehicle.  Deputies observed a vehicle being operated on Phoebe Lane in the Village of Delhi with a broken windshield, they stopped the vehicle, which was driven by 30-year-old John Regazzi of Delhi, who was accused of driving while

impaired, along with several other lesser charges.   Regazzi was processed and released and was directed to appear in the Delhi Town Court at a later date.

The State Health Department announced 476 positive COVID 19 cases Sunday, or .88% of those tested.  The total number of cases so far is 421,336, the total number of deaths is 25,204.  Hospitalizations, Intubations & the number of patients in ICU beds continues to decline.

Five Mile Point Speedway in Kirkwood will hold their next race tonight with the 56th running of the Heath Memorial.  The grandstand will be closed to spectators per current NYS Covid-19 Guidelines. The Race will be Broadcast live at dirttrackdigest.tv. for a fee, more information is available at 651-4421.

The Otsego County Chamber of Commerce is hosting our very first "Drive Thru Job Fair!" this Thursday from 9:00 AM to 12:00 Noon in the parking lot of Damaschke Field.  25 local area employers will participate,  Job Seekers will just drive in, follow the signs and traffic flow and remain in the car with your face mask on as you drive to each employer.  There is no fee to job seekers.

Area Chambers of Commerce & Local Governments are urging people to complete the 2020 Census as soon as possible.  The Census results help determine how billions of dollars in federal funding flow into states and communities each year and helps to keep taxes lower, the census can be found online at 2020census.gov.

State Police responded Friday to a reported of a shooting at 1205 Conklin Road in the town of Conklin.  Troopers immediately located two female victims in the parking lot.   38 year old Alison Salisbury of Binghamton was shot and was pronounced deceased at the scene.  42 year old Shannon Brooks of Conklin was shot in the hand and transported to UHS Wilson Medical Center where she was treated and released.  State Police arrested 45 year old Lance Johnson of Binghamton man for 2nd degree Murder & 2nd degree Attempted Murder, & is being held in the Broome County Jail without bail.

Governor Cuomo gave an update on the state's progress in lowering the number of COVID 19 cases statewide.  On Sunday, the number of ICU Patients Dropped to 131, a New Low since March 16, .78% of those tested was COVID-19 Positive; the Lowest One-Day Percentage Reported Positive since Pandemic Began, there were 7 COVID-19 Deaths Saturday, Total hospitalizations were at 548.  The 515 Additional Cases gives the state 420,860."

Lieutenant Governor Kathy Hochul Hosts A Roundtable with Tourism Leaders to Discuss How to Build Back Better, at 1:00 PM at the National Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum Library on Fair Street in Cooperstown.

Governor Cuomo announced that Hospitalizations from COVID 19 have dropped to 576, the lowest number since March 17th.  The number of patients on respirators has dropped to 70; there were 5 deaths from the virus Thursday statewide, the death toll is up to 25,150. 644 people tested positive Thursday, about .9% of all tested, bringing the Statewide Total to 415,014.

Raymond Corporation in Greene has had their manufacturing portion of their facility closed Thursday & today, after an employee tested positive for COVID 19.  The Company released a statement, reporting that a few additional tests are pending among those who had contact with the employee, The decision was made to shut down manufacturing operations to sanitize and disinfect in accordance with recommended protocols, the company stated that they will continue to work closely with local authorities and health care providers to protect the health of their employees.

U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand visited the Prospect Terrace Fire Company in Binghamton this afternoon, as she repeated her call for legislation to provide local governments with direct federal relief that can be used to pay for essential services like Fire Departments, Police Departments & other emergency Services, and offset lost revenues and increased costs from the COVID-19 emergency. Gillibrand also called for the Trump Administration to renew the $600 week unemployment to those unemployed due to the pandemic, those benefits along with provisions that keep people from being evicted, expire at midnight tonight.

Governor Cuomo announced more than $30 million to enhance COVID-19 contact tracing and flu prevention in advance of the fall flu season. The majority of funds are available to counties in the form of grants, & they can be used to increase local health department staffing capacity for enhanced detection, surveillance and prevention of COVID-19. The Governor also announced $2 million in additional immunization funds to expand flu vaccination rates statewide to prevent overwhelming the healthcare system in the event of a severe flu season.

The Arc Otsego presented Golden Artist Colors as 1 of the statewide recipients of The Arc New York 2020 Employer Recognition Award. Golden Artist Colors produces paints used by artists worldwide, there are 2 individuals who have intellectual or other developmental disabilities currently employed, and Golden Artists have been employing individuals with disabilities from The Arc Otsego since 2000.

Development Chenango Corporation has assisted County Businesses recently to make renovations or expand their operation, & they have announced a new loan opportunity for Chenango County businesses needing financial help due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Commerce Chenango CEO & President Kerri Green explain:

(Kerri Green 7-31-20)

Green said that more information is available by calling her at 334-1404 or by email: kgreen@chenangony.org.

Otsego County Department of Health announced that they will have a testing site today from 9:00 AM to 12:00 Noon, at the Exeter Town Barn on State Highway 28 in Schuyler Lake.  The testing site is limited to people who are NOT sick, but want to be tested for the Coronavirus, The testing will be by a nasal swab.  The testing site will be drive up only, individuals are required to stay in their vehicle & wear a face mask.  Pre-Registration is required at 547-4279.

The Afton Fair Board announced that even though there is no fair at the Fairgrounds this year, those who love Fair Food will be able to buy it Today through Sunday, Board Spokesperson Rhonda Barriger explains:

(Rhonda Barriger 7-23-20)

The drive through food event will be held today from 4:00 to 8:00 PM, Saturday from 12:00 to 8:00 PM & Sunday the 2nd from 12:00 Noon to 7:00 PM.

Governor Cuomo held a COVID 19 update today in New York City; he said that July 4th gatherings upstate are increasing COVID numbers:

(Cuomo 7-23-20)

The state had 811 new cases of the virus Wednesday, bringing the state total to 409,697, the number who died from the virus, was 13, bringing the state death toll to 25,081, the number hospitalized dropped to 706 statewide.

The Oneonta Police Department is investigating a series of slashed tires Sunday night into Monday morning in the City's East End.  Police are using surveillance video to try to determine the suspect.  Anyone with information is asked to call Oneonta Police at 432-1111.

The New York State Department of Health and Delaware County Public Health are investigating reports of potential COVID-19 exposures associated with those who attended Walton First Baptist Church, 55 Townsend St in Walton, NY on Sunday, July 12th.  People that attended church on July 12th, 2020 or a church function on the night of July 12th should immediately self-isolate and call Delaware County Public Health at 607-832-5200.

The Delaware County Board of Supervisors met in person in Delhi Wednesday for the first time in several months because of the COVID 19 pandemic & state requirements that followed.  The board accepted federal grants for COVID-19 relief for the County Office for the Aging.

The Afton Fair Board announced that even though there is no fair at the Fairgrounds this year, those who love Fair Food will be able to buy it later this month, Board Spokesperson Rhonda Barriger explains:

(Rhonda Barriger 7-23-20)

The drive through food event will be held on Friday July 31st from 4:00 to 8:00 PM, Saturday August 1st from 12:00 to 8:00 PM & Sunday the 2nd from 12:00 Noon to 7:00 PM.

Due to the rising cases of COVID-19 in Broome County the Binghamton Rumble Ponies have decided to postpone "A Night at Rumble Town," originally scheduled for July 31st.  Fans who had already purchased tickets will be receiving an email in the coming days with information on refunds for the event.  As soon as it is safe to host fans at NYSEG Stadium, the Binghamton Rumble Ponies will post information on BINGRP.com along with their Facebook and Twitter pages.

SUNY Broome will be hosting a virtual graduation to celebrate the class of 2020 on Saturday.  The commencement ceremony will be held at 1:00 pm on Saturday and will be available by Livestream on YouTube and Facebook Live.  SUNY Broome has provided a webpage for graduates, friends, and family and loved ones to participate in the celebration at sunybroome.edu/graduation.

State Health Commissioner Dr. Howard Zucker discussed the findings of the state's handling of Covid Positive nursing home patients who required  hospitalization, and who were transferred back to nursing homes after they recovered:

(Zucker 7-6-20)

Zucker also said that over 37,000 staff members at Nursing homes tested positive for COVID, many of those who may have brought the virus into the nursing homes while Asymptomatic and many were before much was known about the new virus.  The Full report can be found at health.ny.gov.

Governor Cuomo announced today that the New York State Fair is cancelled this year.  Last year's Fair broke all attendance records when 1.3 million people came through the turnstiles.

Governor Cuomo today said that the state's 700 School Districts have been advised to come up with plans for a possible re-opening of classrooms in the fall:

(Cuomo Schools)

The State Health Department announced today that there were 518 new Coronavirus cases diagnosed Sunday, giving the state 397,649 total cases, there were 9 deaths attributed to the virus Sunday, bringing the state death toll to 24,913, hospitalizations were down to 817 Sunday.

Officials with the Otsego County Fair announced that they will cancel this year's event.  Organizers are planning to hold the Fair in Morris in August of 2021.

Oneonta Mayor Gary Herzig announced that the Oneonta Community Advisory Board will be formed shortly, as the city's citizens & Oneonta Police will discuss Oneonta Police policy, as mandated by Governor Cuomo.  The committee will include Oneonta Police Chief Doug Brenner, plus a cross section of local community leaders & residents.  Each Police force in the state has until April 1st of next year to get their policies discussed with the community they serve.

The State Health Department is continuing with research regarding the effects that Air Conditioner Filters may have on curtailing the spread of the COVID 19 virus in restaurants, malls, gyms & other inside businesses with heavier densities, Governor Cuomo commented on Wednesday:

(Cuomo 7-2-20)

The state Health Department announced that over 4 million tests have been administered since March, with 394,954 positive tests, there were 10 deaths Wednesday from the virus, and the state death toll is 24,877.  Hospitalizations statewide were at 878 on Wednesday.

State Police arrested 42 year old Jennifer McCluskey of Otego for Driving While Ability Impaired by Drugs.  A trooper was dispatched to a one-car crash on County Highway 3A in the town of Unadilla, the trooper discovered that McCluskey’s vehicle was in the embankment, McCluskey was arrested, processed and released on appearance tickets to the town of Unadilla court on July 27th, & was turned over to a sober third party.

State Police arrested 19 year old Ryan Spence of Port Crane for Driving While Intoxicated, after Troopers were dispatched to a one-car crash on State Route 369 in the town of Fenton.  Spence traveled off the roadway and struck a tree; He was arrested and released on appearance tickets to the town of Fenton court then released to a sober third party.

The Northeast Classic Car Museum is preparing to reopen its doors on Friday, July 10th, in accordance with the State’s phased reopening plan with many health and safety procedures being followed.  The Museum will be open from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays only through the month of July.  The Museum will then reevaluate whether to expand operating hours for the month of August.

The State Health Department announced the latest Coronavirus Numbers for Monday.  The number of Hospitalizations state wide is 891, there were 13 deaths Monday from the virus; bring the state death toll to 24,855.  There were 524 new positive cases diagnosed Monday, or about 1% of those tested, the state number since early March is 393,454.

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.

The New York State Department of Health announced that they have led a study on multisystem inflammatory syndrome in children associated with COVID-19.  The study describes 99 cases of the syndrome and concludes the emergence of the condition in the State followed widespread COVID-19 transmission and often is associated with cardiac dysfunction in children up to the age of 21.   Of the 99 patients 36 had a pre-existing condition, the most common being obesity, Of the 99, there were two fatalities, the syndrome is compared to Kawasaki disease, and more studies will be conducted.

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

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.

The Chenango County Agricultural Society announced that they have decided to cancel the 173rd Chenango County Fair in Norwich this year.  The fair is being canceled due to continuing concerns from the Coronavirus pandemic.

The State Department of Labor announced that the state economy added 137,300 Private sector jobs in May to 6.6 Million jobs.  The State's seasonally adjusted unemployment rate decreased from 15.3% to 14.5% in May, the number of unemployed New Yorkers decreased by 76,300.

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 held his coronavirus briefing today in Albany; he discussed how they are now juggling the issues of protests, looting & the potential for a spike in Coronavirus cases again among those protesting:

(Cuomo 6-2-20)

State Police Superintendent Keith Corlett said that troopers are ready to be deployed again tonight, where ever they are needed:

(Superintendent Corlett 6-2-20)

Governor Cuomo said that he didn't envision a need to send State Police or the National Guard to New York City, which has a police force of 38,000 currently.

The State Health Department reports over 1300 new coronavirus cases in Hospitals across the state Monday, bringing the state total since March of 373,040.  Another 58 died from the Virus Monday, bringing the state death toll to 24,023.

The State Health Department continues to double check the discrepancies of Coronavirus deaths attributed to both Nursing homes & Hospitals.  Early in the Pandemic, officials have learned that a Nursing home could send a positive patient to a hospital, where they later died, the hospitals would list the death among their reporting to the State, and the Nursing home, which was the patient’s legal address, would also report that death to the state.  The investigation by the Health Department is ongoing.

The Broome County Agricultural Society announced today that they have decided to cancel the 2020 Broome County Fair.   The Board of Directors aims to resume the Broome County Fair, July 27 to August 1, 2021.

The Bainbridge Guilford central School District will hold their public budget hearing at 6:00 PM tonight through Zoom, BG Superintendent Tim Ryan comments:

(Tim Ryan 6-2-20)

The Proposed budget is 20.1 Million dollars; the tax levy increase is 2.4%.

Delaware County DPW will begin milling on County Route 33 today at the intersection with State Route 23 & the work will proceed to County Route 12.  The Work will be performed daily from 7:00 AM to 5:00 PM, weather permitting & is expected to be completed June 12th.

------------------------------------------------------ &

Governor Cuomo travelled to Washington DC today to meet with President Trump, to try to get money to the states struggling with the deficits they incurred by battling the coronavirus pandemic, he said he spoke with the President about the need for finally starting much needed infrastructure projects to jump start the economy again:

(Cuomo 5-27-20)

The Governor said that the state is looking at a 61 Billion dollar deficit over the next 4 years & without Federal aid, there will be 20% cuts in education, police departments, fire departments & hospitals.  The US House has passed the Americans First Bill with State aid; The Senate has not acted on it.

The State Health Department reported that the number of Coronavirus cases continues to increase, up to 364,965, hospitalizations are about 4000 state wide, 74 people died from the virus Tuesday, bring the state death toll to 23,643.

The Otsego County Department of Health Announced today that the free rabies clinics for the month of June have been cancelled, any updates or charges in the future regarding the rabies clinics will be posted on the Otsego County Health Department website.

The Afton Fair Board has announced that this year's Afton fair has been cancelled, and they plan to hold the next fair in 2021.  The 2020 Afton Fair was originally scheduled for July 9 to July 12.

The State Board of Elections reminds all state residents that the deadline to register to vote for the June 23rd Primaries is this Friday. Mail-in voter registration forms must be postmarked by midnight, May 29th; New Yorkers wanting to register in-person may do so at their county boards of elections, but must do so no later than this Friday.  Due to the current COVID-19 pandemic, mail in registration is recommended.    The voter registration form can be downloaded from ELECTIONS.NY.GOV or through your account with the State Department of Motor Vehicles website.

Delaware County Sheriff’s Office is seeking the public’s assistance in their investigation of recent vandalism to the historic Hamden Covered Bridge. On May 21st, a local resident reported discovering new graffiti spray painted on the interior of the wooden covered bridge and area road signage, the names “Jake” and “Dylan” were spray painted inside the bridge,   Delaware County DPW employees have removed the paint from the road signage, and began attempting to remove the spray paint from the rough cut lumber of the bridge.  Deputies are asking anyone with information, to call 832-5555, or toll-free (888) 914-9111.

Governor Cuomo today announced that the State has over 149,000 cases of the Coronavirus; they have reported 6,268 deaths so far, with another record breaking amount on Tuesday of 779 deaths.

(Cuomo 4-8-20)

Cuomo said that the Number of those entering Hospitals & ICU beds is about 1/3 of the peak number from 10 days to 2 weeks ago; the number of recoveries continues to steadily increase.

Governor Cuomo today said that New Yorkers, who are unemployed because of the Coronavirus situation, will be receiving a $600 benefit, and their weekly benefits will be extended an additional 13 weeks to 39 weeks.

Commerce Chenango will start a "Virtual Lunch" Webinar Series over the next 5 Thursdays on "Zoom" starting tomorrow, regarding Important Issues and Concerns to area businesses trying to navigate their way through this difficult time.  Commerce Chenango CEO Kerri Green explains:

(Kerri Green 4-8-20)

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. An email confirmation with the invitation link for the webinar will be sent to the registrant 24 hours in advance of the webinar.

State Senator Jim Seward's office announced today that he was moved out of intensive care Unit at Albany Medical Tuesday night, where he is being treated for the Coronavirus, he is expected to begin to convalesce at home as soon as it is deemed appropriate.

The New York State Fair will be five days longer this year, if the fair isn't canceled due to the coronavirus pandemic.  The state budget includes a total of $5 million to extend the fair and continue repair and rehabilitation of the fair's facilities to allow for year-round operation of the fairgrounds.  The five-day extension will push the first day of the fair up to Friday, August 21.

Governor Cuomo announced the state will invest in private companies to bring rapid COVID-19 testing to scale and accelerate testing capacity. Businesses interested in working with the state to manufacture these rapid tests on a large scale should contact Empire State Development at 212-803-3100 or COVID19supplies@esd.ny.gov.

The Delaware County Board of Elections reported that registered voters will receive a mail check card shortly; however these cards were printed out before the dates of the Primaries were moved to June 23rd from the original April date, anyone with questions can contact the Board of Elections at 832-5321 or by email BOE.MOVE@co.delaware.ny.us

U.S. Senator Chuck Schumer will be in Binghamton next week,
as efforts are continuing to keep the Binghamton Rumble Ponies from being
contracted along with 40 other minor league teams by Major League Baseball
Commissioner Rob Manfred.  Local
Congressman Anthony Brindisi recently met with MLB Officials, imploring them to
work with Congress to keep Binghamton a minor league baseball town:

(Brinidisi 2-20-20)

Senator Schumer's will meet with Binghamton city officials,
and the Rumble Ponies owner John Hughes, The Rumble Ponies will still exist in
2020 with their season starting at home on April 9th.

Governor Cuomo is hoping for the 2nd Medicaid Redesign team
to come up with savings as successful as the first Team did going back to 2011,
to close about 1/3 of the state projected budget gap for the next fiscal year,
Cuomo discussed that during his recent Budget Presentation in Albany:

(Cuomo 2-20-20)

The Medicaid Redesign Team #2 has had to preliminary
meetings last week, they are tasked with coming up with a solution to the out
of control costs, in time for the start of the next fiscal Year on April 1st.

A statewide education and outreach campaign is underway to
ensure that New Yorkers are aware of the March 1st implementation of the ban on
single-use plastic bags.   New Yorkers
use an estimated 23 billion plastic bags annually and approximately 85 percent
ends up in landfills, recycling machines, waterways and streets.  More information about the plastic bag ban is
available at dec.ny.gov or (518) 402-8706.

The Unadilla Chamber of Commerce announced that they are
accepting nominations for their annual Business of the Year & Good Neighbor
of the Year awards.  Both recipients will
be honored at the annual Dinner in April; nominations will be accepted until
March 1st to the Chamber office PO Box 275, Unadilla NY 13849.

State Police responded to a crash involving a Susquehanna Valley Central School District school bus on State Highway 11 in the town of Kirkwood.  State Police reported that the school bus was stopped, displaying flashing lights and the stop sign extended out, when 56 year old Michael Patchen of Conklin rear-ended the bus.   27 elementary school students were on the bus, along with bus driver 61 year old Mary Reardon they were not injured, Patchen was transported to Wilson Medical Center with Hand injuries, the students on the school bus were evaluated by a school nurse.

CDO Workforce held a Job Fair today at the Sidney American
Legion.  Representatives from several
area businesses attended, officials from the CDO workforce said that dozens of job
seekers met with representatives of participating businesses.

Delaware County Sheriff’s Deputies arrested 55-Year-Old
Michael Lagano of Sylvan Beach for Aggravated Unlicensed Operation of a Motor
Vehicle following a traffic stop on State Highway 10 in the Town of
Walton.  Lagano was additionally issued
tickets for Unlicensed Operator, operating a motor vehicle without stop lamps,
and was released on traffic tickets returnable to Walton Town Court at a later
date.

“Galumpha: The Beethoven Project” comes to Norwich later
this month as Part of the Binghamton Philharmonic’s yearlong celebration of
Beethoven’s 250th Birthday.  Galumpha
President & Director Andy Horowitz explained to WCDO News how it all came
about:

(Andy Horowitz 2-7-20)

“Galumpha: The Beethoven Project” is also helping to raise
funds for the Chenango Arts Council & the Norwich Theater Company, it  will take place  at 7:00 pm on Saturday, February 22nd at the
Martin W. Kappel Theater at 27 West Main Street in Norwich. Tickets are $20, at
chenangoarts.org or by calling 336-ARTS.

Special Olympics New York and
Glens Falls officials today announced the return of State Fall Games, which is
expected to draw nearly 1,300 athletes, coaches, and families from throughout
the state to Glens Falls this October to compete in seven fall sports: bocce,
cycling, golf, equestrian, soccer, softball, and cross-country running.  State Fall Games was eliminated from the
Special Olympics New York budget five years ago due to financial constraints,  The return of State Fall Games was announced
today at a press conference at City Hall. The Games will be held Friday, Oct.
23 and Saturday, Oct. 24 at sporting venues throughout the Glens Falls and
Queensbury area.

Volunteers for the Susquehanna Society for the Prevention of
Cruelty to Animals will host a Brooks' BBQ Chicken Dinner today at Christ
Episcopal Church, with proceeds going to the shelter. The dinner will be part
of Cooperstown Winter Carnival 2020, will be held from 4:30-6:30 p.m. in the
church Parish Hall at 69 Fair Street.

The Delaware County Chamber of Commerce will hold their next
First Friday networking Breakfast this morning from 8:30 to 10:00 am at the
Belleayre Mountain and Ski Center in Highmount.
The featured speaker for the event is State Senator James Seward.

The Firemen’s Association of the State of New York will kick
off the 15th Annual Firefighter Winter Games in Cortland this weekend, at the
Greek Peak Mountain Resort, volunteer firefighters from across the State,
dressed in full turnout gear, will participate in a variety of winter events
and races throughout the weekend, more information is available at fasny.com

State Police will partner with local
law enforcement agencies statewide to crack down on impaired and reckless
driving during Super Bowl weekend. The STOP-DWI campaign will include underage
drinking enforcement, along with increased patrols and sobriety checkpoints to
deter identify, and arrest impaired drivers. The enforcement initiative runs
from Saturday through Monday.  During the
2019 Super Bowl campaign, State Police arrested 139 people for impaired driving
and issued 7,891 tickets.

CDO Workforce announced
that they will hold a JOB FAIR on Thursday February 20th at the Sidney American
Legion, 22 Union Street, Sidney, from 10:00 AM to 12:30 PM.  Businesses attending will include Amphenol,
GE Aviation/Unison, Broome Developmental, Springbrook, Mirabito, NBT,
K-Tooling, Universal Forest Products, Raymond Corporation, Joshua House,   more information is available at 832-5776.

A fundraiser is being held in Sidney
by Binghamton based Half Light Theater Company, to raise funds for Operation
Merry Christmas, Dorene Ireland from Operation Merry Christmas explains:

(Dorene Ireland 1-31-20)

The Alice in Wonderland Tea Party
event will be held Saturday February 15th at 11:30 am at the Sacred Heart
Church, tickets are available at online at TeawithAlice.bpt.me or by phone at
607-201-5850.

A.O. Fox Hospital is
partnering with the New York State Dental Association at FoxCare Dental
Associates @ 1 FoxCare Drive in Oneonta tomorrow for a free day of dental services
to children 18 and under and pregnant mothers.
Appointments can be made at 441-4945; Patients may receive exams and
cleanings, plus fillings, sealant treatment, and routine extractions as
necessary.

33 year old Gabriel Truitt of Oneonta
has been found guilty for 1st-degree arson, 1st-degree and 2nd-degree murder,
in Otsego County Court Thursday.   Truitt
was accused of setting fire to a house on 5 Walling Avenue in Oneonta in
December 2018, former Oneonta firefighter John Heller died trying to get his
family out of the burning building.

State and local health departments
and healthcare partners are remaining vigilant and have a high state of
readiness to protect New Yorkers from novel coronavirus. Officials advise New
Yorkers of the ongoing risk for seasonal flu and take recommended precautions
to prevent both, the State Department of Health has sent samples from 11
individuals to the CDC for testing for the coronavirus, with 7 found to be
negative and 4 more still pending. There are no confirmed cases in New York
State.

Delaware County Sheriff’s Deputies
responded to a report of a disabled vehicle on NYC Road 9 in the Town of Andes.
A license check of the operator 46 year old Adam Gilbert of Flemington, NJ
indicated a total of 7 revocations in the State of New York. Gilbert was issued
a ticket for Aggravated Unlicensed Operation & is scheduled to appear in
the Town of Andes Court at a later date.

The State Department of Labor today released preliminary
local area unemployment rates for December 2019. Statewide, the rate remained
at 4%; Locally Delaware County had 4.8% unemployment, Chenango County 4.9% and
Otsego County 4.7% in December.

Bassett Healthcare Network is hosting its annual Indoor
Heart Walk & Health Fair at FoxCare Center in Oneonta in partnership with
the American Heart Association on Saturday, February 15th from 10:00 AM to 2:00
PM.  Foxcare spokesperson Gabby Argo
explains:

(Gabby Argo 1-29-20)

Learn more by calling 607-431-5009.

Norwood Financial Corporation, the holding company for Wayne
Bank of Pennsylvania, and UpState New York Bancorp, announced the signing of a
merger agreement where Norwood will acquire UpState in a stock and cash
transaction. The combined company will have $1.7 billion in assets and 31
offices. Norwood will retain the brand names of Upstate’s two units, Bank of
the Finger Lakes and Bank of Cooperstown.

Local law Enforcement Agencies are again warning area
residents of the "Grandparent Scam", where a con artist calls or
emails the victim posing as a relative in distress or someone claiming to
represent the relative & requests for them to wire money for a fictitious
expense.  Law Enforcement agencies
suggests that Before sending funds, independently contact the relative the scam
artist is claiming to be, at a known phone number, to verify the details of the
story.  Also Scam artist’s payment method
of choice is the wire transfer; any urgent request to wire money should be
treated suspiciously. Consumers who have been victims of this scam should
immediately report it to local law enforcement; more information is available
at Fraud Center at Fraud.org.

Delaware County Sheriff’s
Deputies arrested 19 year old Trent Wade of Rochester for Aggravated Unlicensed
Operation of a Motor Vehicle, Operation of a Motor Vehicle with Improper
plates, Speed not Reasonable and Prudent, and Operating a Motor Vehicle without
Insurance. Wade was charged following a Motor Vehicle Accident on County
Highway 14 in the Town of Meredith. Wade is scheduled to appear before the Town
of Meredith Court at a later date.

The State DOT announced completion of a $1.1 million project
that replaced a culvert under Dilly Road in the Town of Colesville. The new
culvert ensures more efficient water flow underneath the road, reducing erosion
and enhancing safety for motorists traveling to and from nearby State Route 7.
The Town of Colesville assisted in the project and will maintain the new
pre-cast concrete box culvert.  The bulk
of construction took place last summer to comply with stream work restrictions
and minimize disruptions to school bus routes.

NY State of Health announced that consumers will have an
additional week to enroll in a Qualified Health Plan for 2020, as the Open
Enrollment deadline has been extended until February 7th.  Consumers can enroll in a health plan Online
at nystateofhealth.ny.gov, or with the help of an in-person assistor at
1-855-355-5777

The American Red Cross is holding 2 more blood drives locally
today, 1 in New Berlin from 10:00 AM to 2:30 PM at 12 School Street, another
will be held from 11:30 AM to  4:30 PM at
Binghamton University in the Old Union, at 511 West Drive.  Donors of all blood types are urged to make
an appointment to give blood or platelets now using the Red Cross 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.