WCDO Radio News

P.M. NEWS FRIDAY 11-27-20

Chenango County Public Health reported that they had 76 Active Cases of COVID 19 to report today. They have 402 Quarantines, 6 people are hospitalized, and they have had 605 Total Cases with 503 Total Recoveries

State Police & Local Law Enforcement agencies will continue with their Holiday Weekend Patrols to keep New Yorkers safe on the highways.  Police will be looking for drunk or drugged drivers, aggressive drivers, speeders, districted drivers, people not wearing seat belts and people violating the "Move Over Laws".

Catholic Charities of Delaware Otsego & Schoharie Counties is selling paper “Bricks” at their Sidney office for their “Keeping Our Communities Warm 1 Brick at a Time” fundraiser, Penny McKnight of Catholic Charities explains:

(Penny McKnight 11-9-20)

More information about the program is available at 604-4071 or stopping at the Sidney office in the Civic Center at 21 Liberty Street.

Attorney General Letitia James today released the annual "Pennies for Charity: Fundraising by Professional Fundraisers" report, which found that nearly 1/3rd of charitable donations ended up in the pockets of professional fundraisers.  People can report suspicious organizations by contacting the Attorney General's Charities Bureau by email to bureau@ag.ny.gov or (212) 416-8401.  More information about the Attorney General's Charities Bureau and organizations regulated by the Bureau may be found at charitiesnys.com.

A.M. NEWS FRIDAY 11-27-20

The State Health Department tested over 217,000 New Yorkers Wednesday, with over 6900 positive tests.  Patient Hospitalization increased to 3, 056,  the number of patients in ICU beds is up to 628 & the Number on Ventilators is up to 286, there were 67 deaths from the virus, the Total number of Deaths is 26,549.  The state has conducted 18.7 million tests since March.

Delaware County Public Health reported 11 new cases of COVID 19 Wednesday & 4 more on Thursday, bringing their total to 339 since March.  They reported 56 active cases, 4 are hospitalized, 230 are in quarantine, and there have been 274 recoveries & 9 deaths.

Otsego County Department of Health reported 13 new COVID 19 cases Wednesday, they have had 1249 total confirmed cases, 113 active cases, 6 are hospitalized, there have been 8 deaths, and 764 cases are linked to SUNY Oneonta & 73 cases are linked to Hartwick College.

The Broome County Health Department added another 103 positive COVID 19 cases since Friday, giving them 3883 since March, they had 1 more death, giving them 106 since the virus hit.  They have had 3460 recoveries and 4048 are being monitored by the Health Department.  Their Yellow Zone positivity rate in the Southern part of the County is down to just over 3%.

The Sidney Central School District has been notified that someone has tested positive for COVID-19, the affected person has not been on campus since Thursday, October 29th. The Local Department of Health has already conducted an investigation and has notified any and all people who may have potentially been exposed. There will be no change to the instructional model as a result of the positive case. The potential exposure has been minimized because of the emphasis placed on wearing face coverings and social distancing.

NYSEG reminds customers that enrollment for New York’s Home Energy Assistance Program, also known as "HEAP" is now open. Customers who anticipate the need for heating assistance should take action now to determine their eligibility and get enrolled before the cold weather sets in.   More information is available at otda.ny.gov/programs/heap/.

Catholic Charities of Delaware Otsego & Schoharie Counties is selling paper "Bricks" at their Sidney office for their "Keeping Our Communities Warm 1 Brick at a Time" fundraiser, Penny McKnight of Catholic Charities explains:

(Penny McKnight 11-9-20)

More information about the program is available at 604-4071 or stopping at the Sidney office in the Civic Center at 21 Liberty Street.

A.M. NEWS MONDAY 11-9-20

Otsego County Department of Health reports 7 cases of COVID 19 over the weekend, they have had 1060 total confirmed cases, 38 active cases, and 0 hospitalized & 8 deaths.   755 cases are linked to SUNY Oneonta & 62 confirmed cases in Hartwick College students

State Police arrested 49 year old Timothy Young of Oneonta for Criminal Possession of Marijuana and Driving While Intoxicated, Obstructing Governmental Administration and Reckless Driving. Troopers observed Young exit the parking garage ramp on Market Street in the city of Oneonta and make several vehicle and traffic violations.  Troopers initially made a vehicle and traffic stop in the Clinton Plaza where Young stopped but then drove off toward Chestnut Street and into a parking garage.  Young was taken into custody, Young was allegedly in possession of 5 pounds of marijuana, and his B.A.C was .14%.  Young was processed and was remanded to the Otsego County Jail.

The American Hockey Board of Governors announced that they have moved the anticipated start date of the next season on February 5th 2021, due to the ongoing COVID 19 pandemic.  Further details about the next season will be announced at a later date.

28 organizations were awarded grants totaling $454,200 from the Community Foundation for South Central New York. The successful grant applications are for a variety of capital projects, operations, COVID-19 related needs, and programs for Non Profit organizations around the Southern Tier, more information is available at donorswhocare.org.

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.

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.

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.

P.M. NEWS MONDAY 10-5-20

Governor Cuomo announced that the state tested over 110,000 New Yorkers Sunday, with 1,222 positive tests, or 1.1%. The state has had over 464,000 positive tests for COVID 19 since March, Hospitalizations were steady at 618, there were 14 deaths from COVID 19 Sunday statewide, and the state death toll is 25,519.

Broome County Health Department announced that they had another 29 positive cases of COVID 19, giving them 180 since Friday. They report 1863 cases since March, they have had 82 deaths, 1368 recoveries & the Health Department is monitoring 1700 people. Due to the high rate of infections of COVID 19 in Broome County, both UHS and Lourdes will not allow visitors into their facilities starting Tuesday. The restriction affect the hospital's primary care and specialty care locations and outpatient surgery locations, there are exception for end-of-life patient situations & Pediatric patients.

State Police responded to a report of a structure fire with an entrapment at a residence on Jones Road in the town of Otsego, early Sunday morning. 39-year-old male, 32-year-old female and 3 children were able to escape the residence unharmed, but the male returned to the residence to assist a 77-year-old male out of the home, the 77-year-old male was transported to Bassett Hospital where he later died. Many area Fire Departments responded, the cause of the fire is under investigation, no foul play is suspected.

State Police and the Department of Transportation continue to work together targeting reckless and distracted drivers in active work zones with “Operation Hardhat”. Last Thursday, 2 work zones on I-81 in Broome County were targeted, during the initiative, 33 tickets were issued, 10 for Speeding, 9 for Cell Phone Use, 6 for not wearing a Seatbelt & 8 more for a variety of infractions. As of mid-September, over 1,600 tickets have been issued throughout New York; the initiative began in July and continues through construction season through the month of November.

Local Congressmen Antonio Delgado & Anthony Brindisi announced a $255,000 grant award from the Appalachian Regional Commission for the DCMO BOCES. The funding will help expand the Career Destinations – Connecting Students to Local Jobs and Careers program to 14 middle and high schools in Delaware, Otsego, and Chenango counties.

A.M. NEWS MONDAY 10-5-20

Governor Cuomo updated New Yorkers on the state's progress during the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. On Saturday, 104,937 tests were conducted yielding 961 positives, 464,582 total individuals who tested positive for the virus since March. Patient Hospitalization were at 618, the Number patients in ICU beds was 138, 67 were on ventilators, there were 14 Deaths, the state death toll is 25,519

Otsego County Department of Health Reported 2 new cases of COVID 19 Friday, both are SUNY Oneonta students. Otsego County reports 897 total confirmed cases, 20 active cases with 1 hospitalization, with 7 deaths, 725 cases are linked to SUNY Oneonta, & 20 confirmed cases in Hartwick College students.

Delaware County Public Health reports that there has been an 8th death from COVID-19. Delaware County reported 3 new cases of COVID-19 Friday. The known active cases in the County is now 6, all are recovering at home. To date there have been 126 confirmed positive cases of COVID-19 in Delaware County, with 53 people now under mandatory quarantine, 8 people have died and 112 have fully recovered

The Cancer Services Program mobile screening coach will be at the Oneonta Southside Mall on Thursday, October 29th 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, Colorectal cancer screening kits also available for men and women 50 and over.

P.M. NEWS THURSDAY 8-27-20

The Broome County Sheriff’s Department announced the arrest of Caleb Casteline of Apalachin for the fatal stabbing of Q-Quan Richardson of Binghamton, at a party in Endwell Wednesday.  Casteline was charged with 2nd degree murder and faces court action on the charge shortly.

State Police responded to a report of a tractor trailer rollover north of the Pennsylvania state line on I-81 at about 11:45 AM Wednesday.  A trooper responded & discovered that the tractor trailer struck the guide rail, continued off the roadway and overturned.  The driver was a 57-year-old male from Quebec who declined hospital treatment, the investigation is ongoing.

State Troopers were dispatched by Broome County 911 to a one-car crash near the intersection of Fox Farm and Reagan Roads in the town of Windsor Wednesday morning.  Troopers discovered that the vehicle went off the roadway and struck a utility pole, the driver was still in the vehicle and unresponsive.  The unidentified driver was pronounced deceased at the scene and an autopsy was ordered.

Former State Assembly Speaker Sheldon Silver started his prison sentence Wednesday at a federal prison in Otisville, where he will serve 6 1/2 years following a corruption conviction.  Silver left the Assembly in 2015, was convicted a short time later & various appeals & a retrial kept him out of prison.    Silver was convicted twice for administering political favors, as a new inmate, Silver will be tested for COVID-19 and placed in quarantine for 14 days.

The National Transportation Safety Board released documents this week regarding the Prestige Limousine crash in Schoharie on October 6th 2018.  The Board’s Investigators said that The ownership of Prestige Limo took great pain to register the vehicle in a many to avoid safety regulation & twice a year required inspections.  The vehicles brakes failed approaching a t intersection, it crashed into a gas station, killing 2 people in the parking lot & all 18 in the limo.   Nauman Hussain faces 20 charges each for manslaughter & criminally negligent homicide as the operator of Prestige Limousine.

The Otsego County District Attorney’s office announced that Nicolas Meridy of Oneonta has pleaded guilty in a plea bargain arrangement & will serve 22 years to life.  Meridy was arrested along with several others following the murder of Kenneth Robinson in Worcester & the arson fire at Robinson house after the fatal shooting, in October of last year.

Delaware County Sheriff's Deputies arrested a New York City man Tuesday following a property damage accident on County Highway 26 in the Town of Colchester.  23-year-old Evian Camacho of New York City had a suspended driver’s license, for failure to answer summonses in both Bronx and New York counties and for failure to pay a State DMV driver responsibility assessment.    Camacho was charged with aggravated unlicensed operation of a motor vehicle and moving from a lane unsafely.  Camacho was released and directed to appear in the Town of Colchester Court on a later date.

A variety of severe weather warnings have been issued throughout the region this afternoon, as severe weather pounded the region.  Meteorologist Rich Townsend comments:

(Rich Townsend 8-27-20)

A Tornado watch remains in effect through 7:00 PM throughout the WCDO Listening area .

Otsego County Department of Health is investigating 9 cases of coronavirus reported Wednesday, 5 of the cases are SUNY Oneonta students. The other 4 cases have been associated with a gathering of high school students. All cases are have been investigated and contacts are being notified.  Currently, Otsego County now reports 128 total confirmed cases, with 15 active cases, 1 person is hospitalized.  The Otsego County Health Department is holding another free COVID 19 testing this morning from 9:00 AM to 12:00 NOON at the former "Greenies" site on state route 7 in Otego, This testing site is for Otsego County residents only who preregister by calling 547-4279.

Delaware County Public Health received 1 positive lab report for COVID-19 Wednesday, giving them 102 total cases since March.  Currently, 3 patients are recovering at home, 93 have recovered, 6 have died, and 29 are under Mandatory Quarantine.

The Broome County Sheriff’s Office is investigating the death of a 22 year-old Q-Quan of Binghamton, following an investigation into an altercation early Wednesday Morning.  Quan was taken to Lourdes and later Wilson hospital with stab wounds, he apparently was stabbed at a large gathering in the town of Union, The suspect fled the area, and anyone with information should call the Sheriff’s Office at 778-1196.

The Broome County Sheriff's department arrested 25 year old Keenan Johnson of the town of Chenango twice Tuesday.  Johnson reportedly had a dispute with his girlfriend, he was confronted by neighbors & displayed a handgun, he fled the scene, was located by deputies & was charged with Menacing and Criminal Possession of Marijuana before being released on an appearance ticket, he was arrested a short time after his release at the girlfriends residence, fled on a Motorcycle the chase was terminated due to public safety concerns.  Additional charges against Johnson are pending.

P.M. NEWS TUESDAY 8-25-20

Governor Cuomo announced today that travelers from Alaska, Arizona, Delaware, Maryland and Montana will no longer have to self-quarantine for 14 days when arriving in New York.  The U.S. territory of Guam was added to the states quarantine list, the full list can be found at coronavirus.health.ny.gov.

The Federal EPA is planning to complete the clean-up of the GCL Tie & Treating plant in Sidney that closed over 26 years ago, and was included on the Federal Superfund site in 1994.  The plant was contaminated by creosote, which was used to treat railroad ties, the owners abandoned the business & the creosote contaminated groundwater.  The EPA will hold an online public meeting September 3rd at 7 PM at Eventbrite.com.

Attorney General Letitia James today announced an $85 million multistate settlement with American Honda Motor Company over allegations that Honda concealed safety failures in the airbags of certain Honda and Acura vehicles sold in the United States. The settlement was reached between a coalition of 48 attorneys general and Honda & it concludes a multistate investigation into Honda's alleged failure to inform regulators and consumers of issues related to the frontal airbag systems installed in certain model cars, which resulted in at least 14 deaths and over 200 injuries in the United States alone.   Customers can learn about the class action settlement at AutoAirbagSettlement.com or visit Honda's airbag recall website at HondaAirbagInfo.com.

The Otsego County Health Department announced that they will hold another free COVID 19 testing on Thursday from 9:00 AM to 12:00 NOON at the former "Greenies" site on state route 7 in Otego, near the Unatego school campus.  This testing site is for people who are not sick but want to be tested by a nasal swab.  This is a drive up testing site. Individuals will be required to remain in their vehicle and wear a mask when pulling up to the testing tent.  This testing site is for Otsego County residents only who preregister by calling 547-4279.

A.M. NEWS Tuesday 8-25-20

State Police arrested 48 year old Robert Gregory of Oneonta for 3 counts of Forcible Touching, 3 counts of Sexual Abuse and 2 counts of Endangering the Welfare of a Child.  An investigation was opened when the parents of two victims under the age of 17 contacted State Police, an investigation revealed that Gregory allegedly made inappropriate sexual comments and forcibly touched the intimate parts of 2 under aged victims. Gregory was virtually arraigned and remanded to the Otsego County Jail on $500 cash bail or $1,000 bond.  The judge issued orders of protections to each of the victims.

Governor Cuomo issued an executive order that requires county boards of elections to be ready for the changes in voting in the November elections.  The executive order requires county boards of elections to Send a mailing outlining all deadlines for voters by Tuesday, September 8, Send staffing plans and needs to the State Board of Elections by September 20th so they can assist them in ensuring adequate coverage, make sure that boards are ready to count votes and reconcile affidavit and absentee ballots by 48 hours after elections & Provide an option for New Yorkers to vote absentee in village, town and special district elections.

Delaware County received no new positive test result for COVID-19 since Friday, 1 additional recovery has been reported. The known active cases in the County as of today is 3, all are recovering at home. To date there have been 101 confirmed positive cases of COVID-19 in Delaware County, with 29 people now under mandatory quarantine, 6 people have died and 92 have fully recovered.

The Cancer Services Program's 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, more information is available at 1-888-345-0225.

State Police responded to a 2-car fatal crash on State Highway 8 in the town of New Berlin Tuesday afternoon at about 2:45 PM.  Troopers said that a vehicle traveling northbound operated by 31 year old Kerri Bunnelle of Little Falls, crossed over into the opposite lane of traffic and struck a vehicle head-on driven by 43 year old Mathew Fredericks of Herkimer, who was pronounced dead at the scene.  Bunnelle was transported to St. Elizabeth Medical Center in Utica. The investigation is on-going.

Governor Cuomo announced Tuesday's results regarding the ongoing COVID 19 Pandemic. There were 636 new positive cases yesterday, or .87% of those tested statewide, bringing the state wide total to 418,225.  There were 4 COVID-19 Deaths, bringing the toll since March to 25,179.    Patient Hospitalizations were down to 564, the number of ICU patients was down to 134, there were 69 patients on Ventilators.

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.

Governor Cuomo announced that State Police and local law enforcement will be increasing patrols over the next week to crack down on speeding across the state. Unsafe speed was a contributing factor in 34% of all fatal crashes from January to May this year, compared to 30% of fatal crashes during the same period in 2019, The "Speed Awareness Week" enforcement campaign is part of the Governor's Traffic Safety Committee's ongoing efforts to improve safety on New York roadways.

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.

The Regatta Row 2020 Art Trail on North and West Main streets in Bainbridge will be coming to an end this week.   The online auction of the chairs and paddles is closing at 10:00 pm Friday, at 32auctions.com/rr2020chairs and www.32auctions.com/rr2020paddles.  To vote for People's choice chair go to jerichoarts.com and click on the link on the homepage.

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.

Preferred Mutual Insurance Company presented the Village of New Berlin with a $150,000 donation to the New Berlin Firehouse project; which will be a  7,000 square-foot firehouse with 6 garage bays, offices, meeting rooms and training area, construction is slated to begin later this year.

Otsego County Department of Health announced today that a bat has tested positive for rabies in the city of Oneonta Wednesday, 4 people were exposed & are undergoing post-rabies exposure treatments.  Anyone seeking more information about rabies can call the health department at 547-4230 or visit the County health department website.

Otsego County Health Department reported 3 new cases of COVID 19 today, giving them a total of 102 since March.  There are 10 active cases, with 3 hospitalized, 205 are under quarantine since March, 5 have died & 87 have recovered.

Chenango County Public Health announced that they are now up to 205 COVID 19 cases since March, with 7 deaths, 186 recoveries, there are 147 Active Quarantines, 1 Active Hospitalizations, and they have performed over 16,100 tests.

The State Health Department announced that 777 people tested positive for COVID 19 yesterday, giving the state a total of 414,370 cases since March.  There were 13 deaths attributed to the virus Wednesday, bringing the death toll to 25,145.

Delaware County received 1 new positive test result for COVID-19 Wednesday & 4 additional recoveries. The known active cases is 5, To date there have been 94 positive cases of COVID-19 in Delaware County, with 38 people under mandatory quarantine and 6 people under precautionary quarantine. 4 people are isolated at home and 1 is in a hospital, 6 people have died and 83 have fully recovered.

The Cancer Services Program mobile screening coach will be at the Unadilla Bishop Lot on Today from 9:00 AM to 2:00 PM to provide no cost mammograms and Pap tests to women 40 or older.  Colorectal cancer screening kits are also available for men and women 50 or older and can be sent by mail.  More information or appointments can be made at 1-888-345-0225.

Nurse Practitioner Kathy Anderson of the UHS Primary Care of Oxford, spent 9 days in Honduras in 2018 on a medical mission, she will share her experiences with a special virtual presentation being offered as part of UHS Chenango Memorial Hospital’s 2020 Women’s Health Series.  The Zoom event will be this afternoon at 12:30 PM, to register call 337-4239 or email makenzie.ballard@nyuhs.org.

The Tri-Town Coalition on Substance Abuse Prevention will host a Zoom Meeting tonight at 6:00 PM on A Trauma Sensitive Approach to COVID-19 presented by Amanda Martin Decker of the Alcohol and Drug Abuse Council of Delaware County.  More information is available at 437-4274; the meeting will also be available by phone at 1-646-558-8656.

Governor Cuomo held a Coronavirus briefing this morning, he said that the main concern now is containing the spread of the virus from people coming from other states with a high infection rate:

(Cuomo 6-29-20)

Governor Cuomo said that New York's Decent from the highest infection rate to the lowest of all 50 states, stems from the use of masks, and social distancing, the he feels the President needs to sign an executive order mandating face masks:

(Cuomo Masks)

Governor Cuomo said that there were 391 new coronavirus cases diagnosed Sunday across the state, .84% off all tested were positive, bringing the state total to 392,930.  There were 7 deaths Sunday, the state death toll is 24,842, and the number of people hospitalized is down to 853.

The Cancer Services Program mobile screening coach will be at the Unadilla Bishop Lot on Thursday, July 30, from 9:00 AM to 2:00 PM to provide no cost mammograms and Pap tests to women 40 or older.  Colorectal cancer screening kits are also available for men and women 50 or older and can be sent by mail.  More information or appointments can be made at 1-888-345-0225.

Chenango County Public Health announced that they are up to 146 total Coronavirus cases since March.  33 people are currently quarantined, there are no Hospitalizations there have been 6 deaths, and 10,641 tests have been performed.

The Broome County Health Department is up to 674 Coronavirus cases Monday, there have been 553 recoveries, 51 deaths, 244 are being monitored by the Health Department, and they have conducted 19,285 tests.

U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand visited and volunteered at the Community Hunger Outreach Warehouse, also known as "CHOW" in Binghamton this morning, where she helped pack meals for New Yorkers struggling to make ends meet during the coronavirus pandemic. The CHOW Program provides food to the hungry in Broome County through its network of over 100 partner agencies including food pantries, soup kitchens, and community meal programs.

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 Tuesday, at 5:00 pm at dot.ny.gov/NY79ChenangoRiverBridge

The State DEC announced that additional DEC campgrounds in the Adirondack and Catskill parks will open on July 1 to existing reservation holders for the 2020 season. To maintain social distancing and reduce the density of facilities and protect visitors, DEC is not accepting additional reservations or walk-in camping for the 2020 season at this time. Only existing reservations for all DEC campgrounds will be honored. Please visit DEC’s website for the latest updates on DEC campgrounds and information about each facility.

Delaware County Public Health received no positive lab reports for COVID-19 Friday.  They report 82 total Positive tests, 75 have recovered, 1 is recovering at home, no one is hospitalized, 6 have died, and 16 are quarantined.

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.

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.

State
Police are searching for 37-year-old Casie Weese of Glen Aubrey, who was last
seen leaving a party with her husband in Apalachin Sunday morning at
approximately 1:30 a.m. but their vehicle ended up getting a flat tire a short
distance away from the party.  Weese was
last seen walking east in Main Street in Apalachin and has not been seen since.
Weese is 5 foot 5 inches and weighs approximately 100 pounds.  She has brown hair and brown eyes and was
last seen wearing a black and white checkered jacket, jeans and black boots.
Anyone with information should call 911 or the State Police at 687-3961.

The State Department of Health is continuing to monitor the
status of the Corona Virus in New York State.
Governor Cuomo commented this afternoon in Albany:

(Cuomo 2-26-20)

There are no positive cases yet in New York State for the
virus.  There have been 26 negative test results,
with one case pending, according to the Centers for Disease Control &
Prevention, and additional 40 million dollars will be made available to the
State Health Department in the event that a positive test result occurs in New
York State.

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.

The American Red Cross and the American Cancer Society have
teamed up to encourage people across the country to Give Blood to Give Time,
ensuring loved ones have the strength and support to battle cancer.  A blood drive is being held today at the
Bainbridge High School from 8:00 AM to 2:00 PM.

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.

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.

Catholic Charities of Delaware, Otsego and Schoharie
Counties is holding a fundraiser called "Keeping our community warm 1
brick at a time" for individuals who are struggling with rising heating
costs.  Individuals, groups, or
businesses can purchase a brick from Catholic Charities for $25; their name
will be placed on the brick which is used to build the fireplace displayed in
the agency's Main Street window in Oneonta.
To purchase a brick, stop by the office at 176 Main Street Oneonta,
donations may be mailed to that office, more information on Catholic Charities
of Delaware, Otsego and Schoharie Counties is available at 432-0061, or
charitiesccdos.org.

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.