WCDO Radio News

P.M. NEWS THURSDAY 11-19-20

Otsego County Department of Health is announcing a potential COVID 19 exposure at the Copper Fox at 7 Market Street in Oneonta.  Anyone who spent time at the bar between November 12th through November 17th should monitor for symptoms, if you have developed symptoms, get tested and isolate yourself.  The Copper Fox is closed for a minimum of 7 days and all staff will be tested, more information is available at 547-4231.

Chenango County Public Health announced that they have had 518 total cases of COVID 19 since March.  They currently report 55 active cases, 3 hospitalizations & 363 quarantines, they have had 10 deaths, 458 recoveries & over 41,700 tests have been conducted.

Bassett Healthcare Network is tightening visitor restrictions at all of its hospitals and long-term care facilities as COVID-19 cases continue to rise regionally and statewide. Effective Monday, Nov. 23, 2020, only individuals considered essential to the medical care of a patient will be allowed at Bassett Medical Center, Cooperstown; A.O. Fox Hospital, in Sidney & Oneonta; Little Falls Hospital, Cobleskill Regional Hospital, and O’ Connor Hospital in Delhi.   Visitation is also suspended at the Bassett network’s two long-term care facilities and assisted living facilities – A.O. Fox Nursing Home in Oneonta, and Valley Health Services and Valley Residential Services in Herkimer.

Delaware County Sheriff’s Deputies responded to a two-car property damage accident on State Highway 206 in the Town of Colchester last Friday, where a vehicle and trailer driven by 32-year-old Stephen Depuy of Downsville was making a turn from State Highway 206 on to Hill Top Drive when his trailer was struck in the rear by a vehicle driven by 84 year-old Eugene Marner of Franklin.  Deputies charged Depuy with aggravated unlicensed operation of a motor vehicle, and being an unlicensed driver.  Marner was ticketed for speed not reasonable and prudent.  Both drivers were released on traffic summonses directing them to appear in the Town of Colchester Court on a later date to answer their charges.

People have been captivated by the story of the little owl that was transported to New York City from West Oneonta last week, on the Tree that is being set up for the Christmas holidays in Rockefeller Center.  Susan O'Hanley of the Delaware Otsego Audubon Society told WCDO News that they believe that the owl was on the tree through the whole process & made the trip to the city:

(Susan O'Hanley 11-19-20)

O'Hanley said that many have commented to the Society that the Owl should be brought back to West Oneonta, the Society members feel that the additional travel would be too stressful & that he will assimilate to the Owl population in the Hudson Valley.

A.M. NEWS THURSDAY 11-19-20

Otsego County Department of Health reported 18 new COVID cases Wednesday, the number of cases in the county since March is up to 1128, with 58 active cases,  1 hospitalized,  8 deaths,  760 cases are now linked to SUNY Oneonta & 67 at Hartwick College.

Delaware County Public Health had 3 new cases of COVID 19 to report Wednesday, with 53 active cases, 6 are hospitalized, and 197 are quarantined.  Delaware County has had 289 cases, 227 recoveries & 9 deaths.

State Police are appealing to the public to help locate the driver of a tractor trailer that sideswiped a troop car in Broome County Tuesday night at approximately 6:46 pm.  A trooper was assisting Broome County Sheriff’s with a traffic crash on Interstate 81 northbound near milepost 34.5 in the town of Lisle.  The marked State Police vehicle was on the right side of the road with all of its emergency lights activated when it was sideswiped by a tractor trailer without stopping.  The trooper was not inside the vehicle at the time of the incident.   Anyone that has any information contact State Police at 775-1241.

P.M. NEWS THURSDAY 10-29-20

Hospice & Palliative Care of Chenango County will hold a virtual event as part of their Light Up A Life Holiday event, that was usually held as a live event at NBT in Norwich each Year.  Hospice Spokesperson Sarah Green explains:

(Sarah Greene 10-29-20)

More information about the event or the purchase of ornaments is available by calling Hospice at 334-3556.

The Annual Toys for Tots campaign will be kicking off next week, Delaware County Chamber of Commerce President Ray Pucci comments:

(Ray Pucci 10-29-20)

Pucci said that families in need can contact Delaware Opportunities at 746-1600.

Broome County Health Department announced another 4 deaths from COVID 19 Thursday, bringing their total to 98, they have had 3522 cases since March, with 2825 recoveries, and almost 5200 people are being monitored.

Chenango County Public Health announced 9 more COVID 19 positive cases Thursday, they still have 48 active cases, 278 quarantines, & 6 hospitalized.  They report a total of 397 total cases since March, with 333 recoveries & 7 deaths.

Hartwick College reported two new cases of COVID-19 have been detected. There are 15 active cases on campus; the total number of cases detected on campus since August 1, 2020 is 36.

A.M. NEWS Thursday 10-29-20

State Police is reminding people to be aware of when someone calls and requests payment in the form of gift cards.  Scammers will say you owe money to the IRS, Social Security, the U.S. Marshal’s Office or some other government entity.  The scammers will even use scare tactics and say there’s a family emergency.  Do not give out your personal information over the phone, do not allow someone to remotely connect to your computer, do not cash check you are not anticipating.

Delaware County Public Health reported 2 new COVID 19 cases Wednesday, they have 19 active cases, 4 hospitalized, 119 quarantined. Delaware County now has 162 total cases, 9 deaths & 134 recoveries.

Otsego County Department of Health reported 3 new COVID 19 cases Wednesday, the county now has 989 total confirmed cases, 38 active cases, 0 hospitalized, there have been 8 deaths, 751 cases linked to SUNY Oneonta & 34 confirmed cases in Hartwick College students

The Cancer Services Program mobile screening coach will be at the Oneonta Southside Mall Today from 9:00am to 2:30pm to provide NO COST mammograms and Pap tests to women 40 and over.  Appointments are requested at 1-888-345-0225, Colo-rectal cancer screening kits also available for men and women 50 and over.

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.

Delaware County Public Health announced 3 new positive test for COVID 19 for the weekend, giving the county 132 positive cases since March. 8 active cases are all recovering at home, 91 are quarantined, there have been 8 deaths and 116 recoveries.

Delaware County Public Health is offering seasonal flu vaccine for County residents, who are income eligible on Tuesday October 13, between 12:00 to 3:00 PM at the Health Department located at 99 Main Street in Delhi. Appointments are required, more information is available at 832-5200.

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.

The Bainbridge Rotary Club will have a “Doug's Fish Fry" To Go Fundraiser from 11:00 to 6:00 today, Bainbridge Rotary Spokesperson June White explains:

(June White 10-12-20

The event's proceeds will benefit Rotary Club Projects such as BG Student Scholarships, BG School Clubs, The Bainbridge Free Library, The Community Chest, Head Start & for Bainbridge Emergency Squad equipment.

Resident Assistants at SUNY Oneonta have posted a series of demands on Instagram, calling for pay increases, increasing protections for any Resident Assistant that has to go into quarantine as a result of their regular required meeting with students in on campus dorms, the group is giving SUNY Oneonta President Barbara Jean Morris 5 days to meet their demands or they will reduce to “emergency only” status.

The Delaware County Sheriff’s Office held a K9 Monument dedication ceremony in remembrance of K9 "Ozzie" on Monday, who served in the department for 7 years before his passing earlier this year. Delaware County Sheriff Craig DuMond comments:

(Sheriff DuMond 9-2-20)

Sheriff DuMond said that Donations to the Delaware County Sheriff’s K9 program can be made by check payable to the Delaware County Sheriff’s Office, attention K9 Fund, and mailed to 280 Phoebe Lane, Suite 1, Delhi, NY 13753.

Chenango County Public Health released their latest COVID 19 numbers today. They have had 229 positive cases since March, with 4 cases active, 2 people are hospitalized, 78 people are in quarantine, they have had 7 deaths, 205 Recoveries & they have performed 23,189 tests.

The Delaware County Sheriff's Department investigated a domestic dispute in the Town of Stamford Saturday, which resulted in the arrest of 66 Wayne Johnson of Stamford for Menacing, unlawful imprisonment, & endangering the welfare of a child. Upon arrival, Deputies learned that Johnson was intoxicated & had threatened to use a firearm to hurt a number of people in the residence, and he had also blocked all points of entry into the house. Johnson was virtually arraigned, & was issued appearance tickets for Stamford court at a later date, and order of protection was issued for the victims.

The Town of Masonville announced that tonight's board meeting, scheduled for 7:00 PM has been cancelled, no rescheduled date was announced.

A.M. NEWS WEDNESDAY 9-2-20

Otsego County Department of Health continues to investigate a large outbreak of Coronavirus involving SUNY Oneonta students, with 53 new cases were reported Tuesday, 50 of the cases were in SUNY Oneonta students, 2 cases in the community and 1 case in a Hartwick College student. SUNY Oneonta reportedly had 295 cases on Tuesday afternoon, the county now has 357 total confirmed cases, there are No hospitalizations.

Hartwick College announced that they will switch to all-remote instruction for the next 14 days through September 15th. Both Hartwick students who have tested positive are isolating at their homes outside of the City of Oneonta. Contact tracing is being conducted by the Department of Health & the College’s Perrella Health Center. Residential students were informed that they should plan to remain on campus. Dining services continue, and all students not in quarantine will continue to have access to the campus and its facilities. The College had a Reopening Plan that included preparation for a hybrid semester of limited in-person and remote learning, plus testing of every campus member, socially-distanced classrooms and campus offices, Students were required to bring a negative test with them before entry to campus, and students were tested again upon returning to campus. All employees were also tested last week; they will be tested every 2 weeks.

Delaware County Public Health received three positive lab reports for COVID-19. The County reports 110 total cases, 98 recoveries, 6 active cases isolated at home, 36 are quarantined, & there have been 6 deaths.

Chenango County released their latest COVID 19 statistics today, with 1 new positive, giving them 212 cases since March.  Chenango County has 136 people in Quarantine, 1 person is hospitalization, and there have been 189 Recoveries, 7 deaths, & 17,275 tests Performed.

Broome County Health Department announced that they had 9 more positive COVID 19 cases today, bringing their total to 1029.  They report 829 recoveries, 69 deaths, 703 are being monitored by the Health Department.

The Otsego County Chamber of Commerce will host its 34th Annual Chamber Classic Golf Tournament at the Oneonta Country Club on Thursday, August 20th, with a 1:00 PM shotgun start.  The event will follow all Social Distancing Guidelines and Safety Protocols.   A portion of the event proceeds will be donated to the CommunityFoundation of Otsego County.  More information is available at 432-4500.

U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand discussed the US Senate's lack of renewing the CARES Act that lapsed August 1st, which led to state and local governments cutting services, & families face lesser or no unemployment benefits & families have been unable to pay their rent and face eviction.

(Gillibrand 8-5-20)

Gillibrand also said that New Yorkers returning to work are also challenged by a growing child care crisis and reduced transportation due to budget shortfalls which limited service, plus millions of jobs have not yet come back since closing in the early days of the COVID 19 pandemic.

Otsego Now established a State Disaster Emergency Grant Program for Otsego County, with financial assistance from the Community Foundation of Otsego County and the Cooperstown Foundation. Small businesses and not-for-profit corporations with fewer than 50 employees are eligible for grants up to $500 for the purpose of acquiring personal protective equipment or installing fixtures to prevent the spread of Covid-19, More information is available otsegonow.com.

The Cancer Services Program has a free mobile coach cancer screening event today at the Morris Fire Department from 9:00am to 2:00 pm to provide NO COST mammograms and Pap tests to women 40 or older.  More information is available at 1-888-345-0225.

Delaware County Public Health received no new positive test results for COVID-19 Tuesday and 2 additional recoveries have been reported. The known active cases in the County is now 2. To date there have been 96 confirmed positive cases,  with 17 people under mandatory quarantine, 2 people are isolated at home and no one is in a hospital, 6 people have died and 88 have fully recovered.

Chenango County Public Health announced that they have had 206 total confirmed cases of COVID 19 since March, with 162 Active Quarantines, 1 current Hospitalization, 7 deaths, and over 16,200 Tests have been performed.

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.

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.

Delaware County received no new positive test results for COVID-19 Thursday and 1 additional recovery, the known active cases is 4. To date there have been 94 confirmed positive cases of COVID-19 in Delaware County, with 37 people under mandatory quarantine and 1 person under precautionary quarantine, 4 people are isolated at home and no one is hospitalized, 6 people have died and 84 have fully recovered.

Chenango County Public Health announced that they have 140 total confirmed cases, with 23 people quarantined, no one is hospitalized, 131 have recovered, there have been 6 deaths, and over 9300 tests have been conducted.

Commerce Chenango will present their next webinar regarding the potential Phase 4 Reopening this Thursday at 3:30 p.m.   Presenters include Commerce Chenango President & CEO Kerri Green, members of the Chenango County Health Department, and Chenango County Emergency Services Manager Matt Beckwith & Jessica Moquin of the Chenango County Historical Society.  Preregistration is required by emailing register@chenangony.org.

Primary voting is being held today across New York State.  All Chenango County Voters will vote Today at the Chenango County Sheriff's Office in the town of Norwich, while Otsego, Delaware & Broome counties have cut back on the number of polling places, the information can be found on the county websites, or by calling Broome County Board of Elections: 778-2172, Delaware County Board of Elections: 832-5321 or the Otsego County Board of Elections: 547-4247

Otsego County Department of Health announced 1 New case of the Coronavirus Monday, they now have 74 total confirmed cases, no one is hospitalized, 65 have recovered, there have been 5 deaths, 26 people are quarantined, 314 people released from quarantine, they have conducted 4,754 tests.

Delaware County is reporting no new case of COVID-19, To date there have been 81 confirmed positive cases, 9 people are quarantined,  1 person is in the hospital, 2 are isolated at home, 5 people have died and 73 have fully recovered.

Delaware County Sheriff's Deputies arrested 20-year-old Noah Shambaugh of Oneonta Sunday in relation to a domestic dispute earlier this year.   On March 30th, Deputies responded to a domestic dispute in the Town of Delhi, The complaint was referred to Delaware County Court for further action and Deputies received a criminal summons and order of protection, Shambaugh was located in the City of Oneonta Sunday where he was arrested & was directed to appear in the Town of Delhi Court at a later date.

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.

Chenango County Public Health announced today that they are up to 139 positive Coronavirus cases since early March.  Currently, 39 are quarantined, no one is hospitalized, there have been 6 deaths and 130 recoveries, and they have conducted over 8200 tests.

Broome County Health Department announced their Coronavirus numbers Friday, they have 627 total cases, 49 deaths, 535 recoveries, 172 are being monitored by the department, and they have conducted over 17,420 tests.

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.

Delaware County is reporting no new cases of COVID-19 and 2 additional recoveries, there have been 80 confirmed positive cases, 10 people are quarantined, 1 person is in the hospital, 1 is isolated at home, 5 people have died and 73 have fully recovered.

Early Voting for next Tuesday's primaries will run through Sunday, Question about early voting, or the polling sites on Tuesday can be found on the county websites of by calling Broome County Board of Elections: 778-2172,  Chenango County Board of Elections: 337-1760, Delaware County Board of Elections: 832-5321 or the Otsego County Board of Elections: 547-4247

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.

Delaware County Sheriff’s
Deputies and Delhi Fire Department and Emergency Squad responded Monday Evening
to a reported tractor-trailer accident at the intersection of County Highway 2
and East Terry Clove Road in the Town of Delhi. 35 year-old David Stanton of
Oneonta was the operator of the tractor trailer loaded with logs; it
jack-knifed on the slush covered roadway and partially rolled onto its side as
Stanton attempted a left turn.  Stanton
was not injured in the accident, but the highway remained closed for several
hours for the cleanup.

Delaware County Public Health
announced that the current total of laboratory confirmed positive COVID-19
cases received in Delaware County is 5, excluding the 3 cases transferred to
the county where the individuals are actually residing. Public Health SpokespersonHeather
Warner told WCDO News that while these numbers may seem low, there is still a
threat to all who do not practice handwashing, social distancing and the other
suggestions by health officials:

(Heather Warner 3-26-20)

Warner said that there are 2
cases that are recovering at home here in Delaware County, 3 cases are isolated
and receiving medical care in a hospital.
There are 8 people under mandatory quarantine and 5 people under
precautionary quarantine.

The Otsego County Department of
Health is investigating two more lab confirmed cases of COVID 19. One case is a
close contact to a confirmed case and one was tested out of county. The
investigations are ongoing and all contacts are being notified and quarantined.
The number of lab confirmed cases is 4.

A list of Delaware County food
pantries is available online, that are served by Delaware Opportunities. The
list is available at delawareopportunities.org/homeless-assistance

State Police and the Otsego County Sheriff’s Department were
dispatched to a report of a pedestrian struck by a tractor trailer with a dump
trailer Wednesday at approximately 1:44 p.m., on County Road 22 in Schuyler
Lake.    An initial investigation reveals
that the tractor trailer with the dump trailer was traveling on County Road 22
when 47 year old Clarence Travis of Exeter stepped into the path & was
struck.  Travis was taken to a Utica Hospital
& succumbed to his injuries, the driver of the tractor trailer was not
injured, and the incident remains under investigation.

The Chenango County Department of Public Works announced
that their Brisben and North Norwich Facilities are both closed until further
notice.  The Landfill in the Town of
Pharsalia is Open Monday through Friday from 8AM to 4PM to Residents and
haulers.  Saturday the landfill will be
open from 8AM to 4PM for residential bagged garbage only, more information is
available at 337-1792

The Sidney Town Clerk’s office announced that they will be
closed to the public next week due to the ongoing COVID-19 concerns.  Town Clerk Sheila Paul announced that all payments,
dog licenses, handicap placard applications, and any other services needed from
the Town Clerk’s Office may be sent by mail or left in the drop box at the Town
Office at 44 Grand Street.  More
information is available at 561-2334, 237-6394 or by Email:
Clerk@townofsidney.com

Otsego
County Health Department announced that they have had their first positive
Coronavirus test.  The individual was in
close contact with another person who had tested positive in another county,
that person is quarantined & close contacts have been notified.

Delaware
County Board of Supervisors Chairperson Tina Mole is asking people from outside
of the county, to not visit here at this time.
Mole also reminded residents that Congregations of more than 50 persons
are a direct violation of the Governor's Executive Order & it could quickly
overwhelm the County healthcare system if there is a large influx of
coronavirus cases.

Delaware
County received 2 new positive reports Saturday, 1 positive case do not reside
in Delaware County; the case was transferred to New York City Health
Department. Currently, Delaware County has 2 confirmed positive cases of
COVID-19, they are unrelated. Delaware County Public Health Services in
partnership with the New York State Department of Health, local hospitals and
healthcare providers is actively investigating these cases and providing
guidance on reducing the spread (i.e., quarantine, cleaning and other recommendations)
as appropriate.

Broome
County Executive Jason Garnar announced Saturday that the 1st person in Broome
County has died from the coronavirus in Lourdes Hospital. The individual was a
new case in addition to those 2 previously announced late last week; the Broome
County Health Department is trying to locate all those who came in contact with
the deceased for testing & possible quarantine.

The
Delaware County Clerk has announced that All Department of Motor Vehicles
Offices will be closed as of Monday March 23, 2020 until further notice.  This is in compliance with the Executive
Order of Governor Cuomo on March 20, 2020.
This order supersedes the previous posting of reduced hours for
Department of Motor Vehicle Offices in Delaware County.

Delaware
County officials announced that due to the Coronavirus situation, they will not
be requiring businesses to pay for occupancy tax at this time.

There
will be an emergency Red Cross Blood Drive at the Sidney Fireman's Training
Center on River Street in Sidney Today, from 10:00 Am to 3:00 PM.

Delaware County Sheriff Craig DuMond announced that the CDC
COVID-19 Alerts are available free from the Delaware County Sheriff’s
App.

(Sheriff Craig DuMond 3-18-20)

The app and the upgrade are available free for Android and
Apple.   The upgrade also includes
an Inmate Search, A map of sex offenders in Delaware County, press releases
& more.  Search for Delaware
County Sheriff's Office in the App Store or Google Play, or
apps.myocv.com.

1 Chenango County resident is among the newly confirmed
cases of the Corona Virus.  The
unidentified person is in quarantine, the County Health Department is not at
liberty to discuss the location of the quarantined patient.

Delaware County Sheriff’s Deputies responded to a domestic
dispute in the Town of Walton last Friday.
Deputies arrested 32 year old Heather Norton of Walton for Harassment,
Endangering Welfare of Child and Unlawful Imprisonment, for allegedly
restraining a person while acting in a manner likely to be injurious to a child
less than 17 years of age.  Norton was
arraigned in the Hamden Town Court and released on her own recognizance pending
her appearance in the Town of Walton Court on a later.

The New York State Department of Labor today released
preliminary local area unemployment rates for January 2020, which decreased
1/10th to 3.8%.   Locally, Chenango,
Delaware & Otsego County all had 5.6% unemployment in January.

Delaware Valley Humane Society officials
announced today that the office is open by appointment only, & dog &
cat food is available for those in need.
Adoptions services are still available; all inquiries should be made by
calling 563-7780.

Delaware County Board of Supervisors Chairwoman Tina Mole
has declared a State of Emergency and County offices will be closed until
further notice, Mole said that maintaining “Social Distancing” is extremely
import during this COVID 19 Pandemic:

(Tina Mole 3-18-20)

The Delaware County Clerk’s office will remain open Tuesdays
and Thursdays, & Department of Motor Vehicles in Deposit, Margaretville and
Sidney will be closed until further notice.

The Otsego County Sheriff’s Office has received information
of a possible scam occurring. Allegedly subjects are approaching residences
identifying themselves as being from the CDC and looking for test samples for
the Coronavirus.  Neither the Center for
Disease Control or the Otsego County Health Department has agents in the field
soliciting test samples.  If you
encounter such a situation request identification and DO NOT allow anyone into
your residence.  Report the matter to law
enforcement, any information as far a description of the subjects, vehicle info
would be helpful.

Otsego County Planning & Solid Waste Department
announced that Otsego Express Route 9 service is suspended until further
notice.  More information is available at
547-4228.

State Police announced today that if residents are
experiencing an emergency, they should still call 911, but when placing an
emergency call, please advise dispatchers if any members of your household are
experiencing flu-like symptoms so that 1st responders can prepare to prevent
the spread of any illnesses. Also, until further notice, the State Police are
suspending employment fingerprinting & child safety seat checks at their
stations.

UHS Chenango Memorial is restricting visitors at the
hospital & all off-site locations.
All patients and visitors will be screened upon arrival, Only 1 healthy
visitor will be allowed per patient at a time, Patients coming for medical
appointments or testing may only be accompanied by 1 healthy individual, and
Children under the age of 18 are restricted from visiting.  Visitors experiencing cough, sore throat,
fever, or any other flu-like symptoms will not be permitted.  Individuals who are asymptomatic but who have
an international travel history, or who have recently been in a community with
active cases of COVID-19, or have been in contact with someone who has tested
positive for the virus, will be screened.
Those with symptoms should call their provider’s office or emergency
room before arriving.  Patients and
visitors are asked to enter through the Main Rear Entrance, except for patients
going to the Emergency Room or patients of the UHS Women’s Health Center.  More information is available at 337-4111 or
at nyuhs.org.

David Thomas of Oneonta Pleaded Guilty to Attempted Murder
in Otsego County Court, for a December 2018 incident in which he injured a
woman's neck by strangulation.  Thomas
will be sentenced on the charge on June 5th.

The Chenango County Sheriff’s Office arrested 34 year old
Lance Barnhart of McDonough for 3rd degree Burglary, Petty Larceny and Criminal
Mischief.   Barnhart is accused of
entering a town of Norwich residence by cutting a window screen to steal an
animal. Barnhart was released on appearance tickets and schedule to appear in
the Town of Norwich at a later date.

Former area Congressman Richard Hanna of Barneveld has died
at the age of 69.  Hanna died Sunday at a
hospital in Oneida County surrounded by loved ones after a battle with
cancer.  Hanna served 3 terms in
Congress, retiring in 2016.

Oneonta Mayor Gary Herzig Announced that as of today, all
City buildings will be closed to the public. Persons requiring emergency
assistance from the Oneonta Police Department can do so by entering the lobby
at the Public Safety Building, all essential services will still be provided,
but all non-essential services and activities will be curtailed. At 7:00 pm
tonight, Mayor Herzig will conduct a live broadcast on the City of Oneonta’s
Facebook page of the Common Council Meeting where the changes will be discussed
in more detail.

Governor Cuomo announced 221 new cases of COVID-19 in New
York, bringing the statewide total to 950, 1 New York City Department of
Corrections officer has died from the Coronavirus, bring the state death count
to 4.  The governor also announced a
tri-state effort to curb the spread of the virus.  Cuomo, New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy and
Connecticut Governor Ned Lamont today announced that they will limit crowd
capacity for social and recreational gatherings to 50 people, also restaurants
and bars will close for on premise service and will have take-out and delivery services
only, they also will be provided a waiver for carry-out alcohol.   The 3 governors will temporarily close movie
theaters, gyms and casinos, all of these restrictions go into effect at 8:00 PM
tonight.

The Sidney Town Clerk's office announced that they will be
closed to the public for 2 weeks due to the ongoing COVID-19 concerns.  Town Clerk Sheila Paul announced that she
will continue to work, all payments, dog licenses, handicap placard
applications, and any other services needed from the Town Clerk’s Office may be
sent by mail or left in the drop box at the Town Office.  More information is available at 561-2334,
237-6394 or by Email: Clerk@townofsidney.com

Delaware County Officials have declared a State of Emergency
effective through Monday April 13, 2020.
The order calls for the suspension of all classroom and extracurricular
functions at all public schools, except for administrative and staff functions,
the Order shall take effect Wednesday, March 18th & will remain in effect
until April 14th.  Also, the Delaware
County Office for the Aging Senior Meal sites and Senior Transit have stopped
operations until April 14th.

Chenango County Officials announced Sunday afternoon that
they have issued a State of Emergency.
Chenango County Schools will be closed Monday, but staff must report.
The state of Emergency will require all county schools to close from Wednesday,
through April 14th.  Unadilla Valley
& Oxford Academy announced that they will close Monday & will remain
closed Tuesday & then through April 14th.

The Delaware County Sheriff’s Office announced that due to
the increased cases of the Coronavirus, all visitation and programs at the
Delaware County Correctional Facility will be suspended until further notice.
More information is available at 832-5607.

All Otsego, Schoharie, Broome & Tioga County Schools
will be closed starting today.  Many Delaware
& Chenango County Schools will be closed today for students, but staff
members must report, decisions on Tuesday for some of those schools have not
been made, more information will be posted on each school's website.

Governor
Andrew Cuomo announced the 2nd confirmed case of Coronavirus, the patient is a
man from New Rochelle in Westchester County in his 50's who was diagnosed with
a respiratory illness, and He is hospitalized in New York City in serious
condition.  The patient is an attorney,
who works in Manhattan, & he recently traveled to Miami, the case cannot be
traced back to China or any other foreign travel.   Governor Cuomo also signed into law the $40
million emergency appropriations for the State's coronavirus response.

A.O. Fox
Hospital’s Tri-Town Campus in Sidney will transition to a daytime schedule
starting May 1st; the facility’s emergency services will operate from 7:00 AM
to 11:00 PM daily.  Sidney Village Mayor
Andy Matviak commented about the change in Emergency room hours:

(Andy
Matviak 3-3-20)

Officials
with Fox Hospital reported that the Tri-Town’s Emergency Department receives an
average of 2.76 per night, with declining visitations over time, they are also
exploring extending primary care hours in the Sidney region to accommodate
same-day appointment needs.”

The
Manslaughter trial of Kimberly Steeley of East Worcester is underway in Otsego
County court.  Steeley is accused in the
asphyxiation deaths of her 2 infants 2 weeks apart in June 2018.

The 1st Democrat has entered the race for New York's 122nd
State Assembly District, Richard Shaw of Downsville is a vet, & has served
as the President of the Downsville Fire Department, 4 republicans are running
for the seat, Joe Angelino, Vic Fuhrman, Nick Libous & James Powers, all
are running to fill the seat that has been occupied by Cliff Crouch since 1995,
Crouch announced that he is retiring at the end the year & is not seeking
re-election.

Delaware
County Sheriff's Deputies arrested 56 year old Richard Costello of Franklin in
relation to an October 2019, oil spill on roadways in the Town of Franklin.  Costello was charged with Reckless
Endangerment following an investigation of a motor vehicle accident on Case
Hill Road in the Town of Franklin on October 27, 2019, caused by a fuel oil
spill, which resulted in slick road conditions on several area roadways and
thousands of dollars in clean-up costs.
Costello was issued an appearance ticket and is scheduled to appear in
the Town of Franklin Court on a later date.

Governor
Cuomo announced that New York has had its 1st Coronavirus positive test
results.  The positive came from a New
York City Woman in her late 30's, who contracted the virus while traveling
abroad in Iran, she is currently isolated in her home with respiratory symptoms,
but is not in serious condition and has been in a controlled situation since
arriving to New York. The Governor asked for the Legislature to pass a $40
million emergency management authorization to confront the evolving situation

Delaware
County Sheriff Deputies received a complaint from the State Child Abuse Hotline
registry regarding alleged physical abuse to an 11 year old child.   Deputies arrested 55 year-old Yvette
Rivera-Wood of Sidney for Endangering the Welfare of Child, for allegedly
striking a child & causing injuries. Rivera-Wood was released on an
Appearance Ticket and is to appear in the Town of Sidney Court at a later date.

The Delaware, Otsego, Schoharie Oneida Herkimer & Madison Counties Cancer Services program has been offering free testing around the region with the Basset Mobile Coach, Outreach Coordinator Cali Riese explains:

(Cali Riese 3-2-20)

The
Next Oneonta screening day will be Saturday April 4th at the Foothills
Performing Arts center during the Oneonta Living Healthier Expo, appointments
are requested at 1-888-345-0225.

A
Downsville man was arrested on Arrest Warrant for allegedly disseminating
“revenge porn” on social media.    Delaware
County Sheriff’s Deputies arrested 44 year-old James Amato of Downsville for
Unlawful Dissemination or Publication of an Intimate Image.  Amato was taken into custody by the Town of
Colchester Police & was turned over to Sheriff's Deputies to be arraigned
on the arrest warrant from the Village of Walton Court in November, 2019.

Delaware
County Sheriff’s Deputies arrested and charged 50-Year-Old Edmund Rajner of
Sidney Sunday for Aggravated Unlicensed Operation, unlicensed operation of a
motor vehicle, operating a motor vehicle without an inspection certificate, as
well as failure to signal a turn.  Rajner
was released on traffic tickets and is scheduled to appear in the Village of
Sidney Court on a later date.

Governor
Cuomo announced that the state will begin testing for the Corona Virus at their
own Wadsworth labs in Albany.  Previous
samples were sent to the CDC, but now the FDA Approved of testing in Albany.

The New York State Association of
Counties is calling on the Federal government to provide $3.1 billion in
emergency supplemental funding for the public health response to the novel
coronavirus. Of the $3.1 billion, at least $500 million should be directed to
local and state health departments.
Additionally, Governor Cuomo recently announced that he was seeking a$40
million emergency appropriation for the New York State Department of Health to
hire additional staff, procure equipment and other resources necessary to
respond to the potential novel coronavirus.

Governor Cuomo
announced that New York State is now offering a free text message program to
help kids quit e-cigarettes as the state moves to reverse the alarming rise in
youth vaping.   To access this program,
text "DropTheVape" to 88709, more information about e-cigarettes is
available at health.ny.gov/NoVape

The Otsego County Office of Emergency
Services confirmed that 5 firefighters were injured in a Middlefield garage
fire from a series of explosions Wednesday night at 3679 Otsego County Route
35.  The firefighters were James Tallman,
Jon Roach & Scott Monington of the Cooperstown Fire Department & John
Sears & Ryan Smith of the Middlefield Fire Department, Roach &
Monington were taken to a Syracuse Hospital for treatment of injuries, the
other 3 were treated at Bassett Hospital & were released.  Firefighters from Middlefield, Cooperstown,
Westford, Cherry Valley, and Milford responded to the fire Wednesday
night.  State Police, State office of
Fire Prevention & Control & the Otsego County Sheriff’s department are
investigating the cause & origin of the fire.

State Police arrested 55 year old
Robert Horan of Unadilla for Endangering the Welfare of a Child and Forcible
Touching, after an investigation of an incident in Unadilla in January.  Horan is a case worker with Otsego County,
the incident did not occur as a part of Horan’s official work duties;  he was arraigned & was released on his
own recognizance and is due back in court on April 13th.

Delaware County Sheriff’s Deputies responded to a 911 call
for a burglary in progress on Seeley Wood Road in the Town of Walton.  Deputies were informed that 40 year old Ryan
Kite of Walton fled from the scene; Kite is accused of forcefully entering the
residence & allegedly stole prescription medication and choked a female
victim.  Deputies located Kite in Walton
Tuesday evening, he was charged with 2nd degree Burglary, Criminal
Mischief & Criminal Obstruction of Breathing or Blood Circulation, he was
arraigned & was released on his own recognizance pending his appearance in
the Town of Walton Court on a later date.

The Emmanuel Episcopal Church of Norwich has committed
$25,000 toward a new emergency room and walk-in center at UHS Chenango Memorial
Hospital.  Parish leaders presented a
ceremonial check Tuesday to campaign leaders; it is the latest pledge in the Chenango
Memorial Hospital’s largest fundraising effort in 3 decades.  More information about the fundraiser &
the project is available at 337-4183 or via email at
melissa.stagnaro@nyuhs.org.

Jury selection began Tuesday in
Otsego County court for the trial of Kimberly Steeley of East Worcester.  Steely is charged with Manslaughter for the
asphyxiation deaths of her 2 infants 2 weeks apart in June 2018.

Oneonta Police arrested 26 year old Thomas Miller of Oneonta
for 8 counts of Making Graffiti, & 5 counts of Criminal Mischief & 1
count of Criminal Mischief in the 3rd degree as a hate crime.  Miller is accused of painting an offensive
symbol on an Oneonta church, and graffiti on private property & businesses
in recent months, he was issued an appearance ticket for the City of Oneonta
Court at a later date.

A State Budget Presentation will be held by Commissioner of
the Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services Major General Patrick
Murphy in Norwich today.  The presentation
will be held at 12:00 p.m. at the Northeast Classic Car Museum, Rexford Street
in Norwich.

The Tobacco Free Communities of Delaware Otsego &
Schoharie Counties will hold an open house & ribbon cutting today in
Oneonta today.  The organization will
open their office at 155 Main Street in Oneonta in Suite C; the event will run
from 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM & is open to the public.

Emergency crews in Chenango County closed down State Route 12 following the report of a 1 car crash at about 9:45 this morning near Greene.  Early reports stated that the vehicle in question rolled over & caught fire, with at least 1 person trapped inside.  WCDO News will have more details as they become available.

The Chenango County Sheriff’s Office announced the arrest of
28 year old Tanner Leone of Norwich for violating the terms of his parole from previous
charges of Burglary, Criminal Mischief, and Assault.  Deputies took custody of Leone following a lengthy
high speed vehicle pursuit, he was additionally charged with Reckless
Endangerment, Unlawful Fleeing a Police Officer and multiple traffic offenses,   Leone was arraigned in the City of Norwich
Court and remanded to the Chenango County Jail on $50,000 cash bail or $100,000
bond & faces court action in the Town of New Berlin Court on Wednesday.

Otsego County Sheriff’s department arrested 39 year old
James Sitts of Laurens for the theft of a motor vehicle 1 day after being
released from jail on the new bail reform law on a Burglary Charge.  Sitts was charged with Grand Larceny &
Criminal Possession of Stolen Property following an investigation into a report
of a stolen pickup truck in the Town of Laurens.  Sitts was released on from jail on December
31st after being held in Otsego County Jail for Burglary, he was arraigned on
the new charges & was remanded back to the Otsego County Jail.

A.O. Fox Hospital held a ribbon-cutting ceremony to open its
new Food “Farmacy” program this afternoon at their Tri-Town Campus in
Sidney.  The prescription food location
will provide emergency food, education, and navigation services to patients and
their families in need, according to Program coordinator Sarah Buttice:

(Sarah Buttice 1-6-20)

Fox is partnering with a number of local businesses and food
pantries for supplies, practitioners will create referrals based on key social
determinants or diagnoses that place patients at risk for food insecurity.

State Police arrested 44 year old Steven Haney of Franklin,
last month for Aggravated DWI with a B.A.C of .18%.  Troopers were dispatched by Delaware County
911 to a report of a vehicle blocking the roadway in the town of Franklin.  The troopers observed Haney in the running
vehicle and sleeping in the driver’s seat.
Haney failed standardized field sobriety tests and was subsequently
arrested.  Haney was processed and
released on appearance tickets to the town of Franklin court.

State Police arrested 38 year old Gary Jennings Jr. of
Unadilla for the felony Aggravated Driving While Impaired by Drugs with Child
as Passenger.   A trooper was dispatched
by Otsego County 911 to a report of a one-car rollover on State Route 7 near
State Route 357.  Jennings was operating
the vehicle and had a 1-year-old in the vehicle with him when he crashed.  Both Jennings and the child were transported
to A.O Fox Hospital for observation and were released.