WCDO Radio News

State Attorney General Letitia James today released guidance to help New Yorkers understand their health insurance options and avoid scams as major changes to New York's Essential Plan take effect. Beginning July 1, 2026, New Yorkers enrolled in the Essential Plan with household incomes over 200 percent of the federal poverty level will no longer be eligible for that coverage, which translates to approximately 450,000 New Yorkers who are set to lose Essential Plan coverage. New Yorkers who enrolled in health insurance through New York State of Health can get free help renewing or changing coverage from New York State of Health-certified enrollment assistors by visiting nystateofhealth.ny.gov or calling 1-855-355-5777. Anyone who believes they have been misled, scammed, or improperly enrolled in a health insurance plan is encouraged to contact OAG's Health Care Helpline for assistance.

Tomorrow is is Primary Election day around the State. Democrats will vote statewide for the Comptroller candidate between long time incumbent Tom DiNapoli and challengers Drew Warshaw and Raj Goyle. Locally Democrats in the 102nd Assembly District will decide between 3 candidates, Thomas Boomhower, Janet Tweed & Mary Finneran. In the Republican Primaries locally, Peter Oberacker & Alexander Portelli are seeking the nomination to be on the ballot for the 19th Congressional District, in the 51st State Senate District, the Republican candidates are Chris Tague & Terry Bernardo, for Otsego County Sheriff, Incumbent Rich Devlin faces a challenge from Mike Stalter, In Afton, Jason Wicks is challenging long time Town Supervisor John Lawrence.

A.M. NEWS MONDAY 6-22-26

State Police arrested 56 year old Joel Salinas of Bainbridge following a traffic stop on Chenango County Road 35 last Tuesday. Troopers observed a vehicle committing multiple violations, initiated a traffic stop, Troopers observed a sawed-off shot gun and other illegal weapons, Salinas was driving to sell the shotgun, the investigation resulted in the seizure of several other illegally possessed weapons. Salinas was charged with multiple counts of Criminal Possession of a Weapon, Criminal Sale of a Firearm, he was processed & transported to the Chenango County Jail for Centralized Arraignment.

Sidney Fire Department was dispatched to a structure fire with smoke and flames visible Friday night at about 7:00 PM at 826 Circle Drive, heavy smoke was showing from the ridge of the roof. Sidney firefighters launched an aggressive interior and exterior attack and contained the fire to one apartment. Assistance was provided by Masonville, Unadilla, Sidney Center, Oneonta, Guilford & Harpursville fire departments, no injuries were reported, Sidney was back in service at about 8:30PM.

P.M. NEWS WEDNESDAY 10-22-25

The 3rd Annual Sidney EMS Charity event will be held on November 1st at Lambrecht Auction in Sidney, Sidney Chamber of Commerce President Teri Schunk Explains:

(Teri Schunk 10-22-25)

The Sidney Emergency squad employs about 30 people, and they are looking to replace their ambulances on a regular basis, they cost over $200,000 to replace.

The Playground at Keith Clark Park has been closed as repairs are needed, according to Sidney Mayor Ray Baker:

(Ray Baker 10-22-25)

Baker also said that the Clover Lane Development site should be purchased with a closing coming soon.

A Groundbreaking Ceremony will be held today for the Delaware Valley Medical Neighborhood in Walton at 2:00 PM. The project calls for an $80 million, 4-story facility featuring medical services like primary care, specialty care, physical therapy, and lab services to a single location. Construction is expected to be completed by the end of 2027.

The Sidney Memorial Library is participating along with other libraries around the state for the “Great Give Back,” Sidney Library Director Patrick McGowan explains:

(Patrick McGowan 10-14-25)

McGowan said that the idea for the Great give back started on Long Island and spread through the rest of the state, more information is available at sidneylibrary.org, more information about pets up for adoption can be obtained by calling the Humane Society at (607) 563-7780.

A Groundbreaking Ceremony will be held on October 22nd for the Delaware Valley Medical Neighborhood in Walton at 2:00 PM. The project calls for an $80 million, 4-story facility featuring medical services like primary care, specialty care, physical therapy, and lab services to a single location. Construction is expected to be completed by the end of 2027.

The Otsego County Department of Health invites all county residents to attend the "Voices of Otsego: Forum on Community Health Needs and Priorities" today from 6:00–7:30 PM at Morris Central School. Health Department spokesperson Abigail Mosenthin comments:

(Abigail Mosenthin 10-14-25)

For questions or more information, please contact the Otsego County Department of Health at (607) 547-4230.

UHS Delaware Valley Hospital has been awarded a $20 million grant through the State Department of Health. The Hospital recently announced plans to build a 4-story addition & the grant will support that expansion. The new building will house primary medical care services, specialty services, physical, occupational & speech therapy and a laboratory, The Medical Neighborhood Project is expected to begin shortly, with the anticipated completion by the end of 2027.

The last show of the Sidney Summer Music Series will be tonight at Main & Division Streets in Sidney, Sidney Chamber of Commerce President Teri Schunk explains:

(Teri Schunk 8-20-25)

Schunk said the show was originally scheduled for last Wednesday but was moved due to the inclement weather.

Catholic Charities of Sidney will hold their Roll The Dice LCR fundraising tournament on July 10th in Sidney, Spokesperson Penny McKnight explains:

(Penny McKnight 6-24-25)

The event will be held on July 10th from 5:00 to 8:00 PM at the Community Cultural Center in Sidney, more information is available at 607-604-4071.

A.M. NEWS TUESDAY 6-24-25

Today is Primary Day in New York State, The Chenango County Republican Party Primary Elections will be held in the towns of Afton, Plymouth, Smithville and Smyrna. Sample ballots can be viewed at chenangocountyny.gov; or by calling the Chenango County Board of Elections at 607-337-1760. In Delaware County: Republicans will vote for a candidate for County Treasurer between Ronda Williams & Carli Pinner; In the Town of Sidney 4 Republicans are running for 2 seats on the Town Board, between Richard DeCola, Frank Selleck, William Hunt & Andrew Hinkley. Republican primaries are being held for Town Supervisor in Colchester, Hancock, & Meredith, more information is available at the County Board of Elections page at co.delaware.ny.us. There are no Democratic Party primaries in Chenango or Delaware Counties & there are no primaries in Otsego County this year.

On Monday Morning, the Colchester Town Police Department, the Downsville Fire Department and Emergency Squad, responded to a reported motorcycle accident on State Highway 30 & Delaware County Highway 7. The operator of the motorcycle, a 42-year-old female, left the roadway and struck a ditch, she was ejected, sustained serious injuries and was transported by LifeNet of New York to Albany Medical Center for advanced medical care.

Amphenol of Sidney is celebrating 100 years in operation in the village of Sidney, with an Open House on Saturday July 19th, with a host of activities & exhibits at the Delaware Avenue facility. WCDO News interviewed Chris Cappello, who is helping to organize the event & wrote a book on the company's rich history in Sidney, that interview will be aired in its entirety following the 6:00 PM News tonight on WCDO.

2 American Red Cross Blood Drives are being held today, 1 in Delhi from 12:30 pm. - 5:30 pm., at the Delhi United Ministry, another in  Sidney from 1 pm. - 6 pm., at the Sidney Elks Lodge, Appointments can be made with American Red Cross Blood Donor App, visit RedCrossBlood.org, call 1-800-RED CROSS

P.M. NEWS TUESDAY 3-12-24

The US Department of Veteran’s Affairs announced that all Veterans who were exposed to toxins and other hazards while serving in the military are eligible to enroll directly in VA health care through the recently signed PACT Act. Peter Potter of the VA in Albany told WCDO News that veterans can come to the Albany VA clinic where they are staffed to help eligible vets:

(Peter Potter 3-12-24)

Potter said that Veterans from all branches are eligible, they can go to VA.gov/PACT or call 1-800-MYVA411 to get additional information.

A presentation for the public will be held at the Sidney Library Smart Community Room, regarding the Flood Gauge project that was installed by & monitored by students at the Sidney Central School, after the 2006 flooding. Science Teacher Rich Townsend explains:

(Rich Townsend 3-12-24)

Townsend said that they are also looking for additional sources of funding, as many of the other revenues streams & grants are no longer available. The presentation on the 27th will begin at 6:00 PM.

Delaware County Board of Elections reminds are voters that the Presidential Primary will be held on Tuesday, April 2 at your usual polling site from 6:00 AM to 9:00 PM. Early Voting by Mail or Absentee ballot applications can be made through the state Board of Elections website at elections.ny.gov/request-ballot & Early Voting at Delaware County Board of Elections, will be from Saturday, March 23 to Saturday, March 30th. More information is available at 607-832-5321

A.M. NEWS TUESDAY 3-12-24

Guilford Firefighters with assistance from other area departments responded to a report of a basement fire at 427 Ives Settlement Road, which was called in at about 4:30 PM Monday. The basement fire was knocked down quickly, Guilford received assistance from Bainbridge, Sidney & Oxford fire Departments.

P.M. NEWS THURSDAY 6-15-23

The campaigning is continuing in the race for the Delaware County Republican Party nomination in this year's District Attorney's Race, Long time area Attorney Joe Ermeti told WCDO why he should get the endorsement of Republicans in the upcoming primary:

(Joe Ermeti 6-15-23)

Current Acting District Attorney Shawn Smith is also running to get the Republican Party nomination in the Primary, he told WCDO why he should be the party's choice:

(Shawn Smith 6-15-27)

Smith already has the Conservative party nomination in the race for Delaware County District Attorney, the promary day will be on June 27th.

Amphenol in Sidney is planning for a variety of celebrations to coincide with the 100th anniversary in Sidney in 2025, Chris Cappello of Amphenol is helping to plan the festivities:

(Chris Cappello 6-15-23)

Cappello said that they are starting to collect memorabilia from the Scintilla, Bendix, Allied & Amphenol days, a new website has been set up at sparkinthedark100.com with more information regarding getting the items to Amphenol for consideration in their displays or for their future museum.

Commerce Chenango announced that their next Business After Hours event will be held today, at Hospice & Palliative Care of Chenango County. The event will run from 4:00 to 6:00 PM at the Hospice location at 33-39 Court Street in Norwich.

United Health Services announced they will close their primary care office at 179 River Street in Oneonta on July 28. The UHS Pediatrics Oneonta office at that location will remain open, More information about other UHS Primary Care locations can be found at nyuhs.org.

A.M. NEWS FRIDAY 5-19-23

The State Department of Transportation is advising motorists that the off-ramp from I-88 eastbound at Exit 2 in the Town of Fenton, will be closed from 8 pm. to 5 am. for 5 consecutive nights from Sunday, May 21 to Thursday, May 25. Drivers should follow the signed detour utilizing Exit 3 and State Route 7. Motorists are urged to slow down and drive responsibly in work zones.

Oneonta Fire Department last night responded to a fire at 7 Hubbell Avenue in Oneonta, they were assisted by West Oneonta, & Otego Fire Department As well as the FAST teams from Sidney, Franklin & Worcester. There were no injuries reported, but several pets died in the blaze. The cause of the fire is under investigation.

P.M. NEWS WEDNESDAY 5-3-23

The State Legislature has passed the final State Budget Agreement for the 23-24-fiscal year. In the budget, an Agreement was reached To Provide Greater Discretion for Judges To Set Bail for the Most Serious Crimes; There were no Income Tax Increases in the Budget, additional funds were approved for mental health care, abortion access, Capital project at SUNY & CUNY Schools, increases in the education portion of the budget & increases in the Minimum Wage to $15 in the upstate counties over a 2 year period to adjust with inflation,

The Delaware County Board of Elections confirmed that, following yesterday's public hearing, a republican party primary will be held in the race for District Attorney. Joe Ermeti of Sidney will face acting District Attorney Shawn Smith in the primary on June 27th.

The next meeting of the Sidney Chamber of Commerce will be held this morning at the Sidney Golf Course. The meeting will begin at 8:00 AM.

P.M. NEWS TUESDAY 5-2-23

Governor Kathy Hochul signed legislation to expand access to reproductive health care across the state and solidify New York's historic standing as the nation's first Safe Harbor State:

(Hochul 5-2-23)

Governor Hochul signed legislation to expand access to contraception by making it available over the counter & legislation to ensure that every student enrolled in a SUNY or CUNY college has access to medication abortion on campus.

The Hospice & Palliative Care of Chenango County Spring Plant Sale's deadline to order is tomorrow, for those who would like to have their plants for the May 9th pick up Date, spokesperson Sarah Greene explains:

(Sarah Greene 5-2-23)

Orders can be placed at hospicechenango.org/spring-plant-sale. More information is available at 334-3556.

The Delaware County Chamber of Commerce & the Leatherstocking Education Addiction Foundation are teaming up for a discussion on May 17 at the Sidney Memorial Public Library. Delaware County Chamber President Ray Pucci explains:

(Ray Pucci 5-2-23)

Those interested in attending can register by calling Kyleen Joslyn at LEAF at 607-433-0090, extension 108 or email Kyleen.Joslyn@leafinc.org.

A.M. NEWS TUESDAY 5-2-23

Otsego County Sheriff's Office arrested 26 year old Tyler Rose of Exeter for 1st, 2nd & 3rd degree Assault, Unlawful Imprisonment, Criminal Possession of a Weapon, Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance, Aggravated Harassment among other charges, Deputies were dispatched to the West Exeter Fire Department after fire personnel located an adult victim with serious physical injuries, who was transported to Bassett Hospital with multiple fractures, lacerations and contusions. The investigation revealed that the victim was imprisoned at Rose's residence for days while subjected to continued assaults with a variety of tools and implements.

Congressman Marc Molinaro will make local appearances Today. At 11:45 am, Molinaro will tour Amphenol Aerospace in Sidney & at 1:45 pm he will meet with students at the Delaware Academy Central School District at Delhi.

The Commissioners of the Delaware County Board of Elections will hold a public meeting at their offices at 97 Main Street, Suite 5, in Delhi as 12:00 Noon. The Commissioners are expected to make a final determination on the validity of the petition for District Attorney candidate Joe Ermeti, who is seeking the Republican Party nomination, if his petition is approved, he will face acting DA Shawn Smith in a Republican Party Primary on June 27th.

The Chenango Memorial Hospital Emergency Room and walk in portions of the Hospital recently celebrated their 1st Anniversary, Dr. Kenneth Herman is the Emergency Department Medical Director & he told WCDO News how the upgrades have been received:

(Dr. Kenneth Herman 2-24-23)

Also, UHS Chenango Memorial was recently awarded a $20 Million state grant, to redesign primary and specialty care services over the next 5 years. Hospital officials said that they will be creating a new Infusion Center, dedicated Women’s Imaging Suite and Pre-Admission Testing Center as well as make other strategic investments in hospital-based services.

The Tri-County Seniors will hold an Open House today at their new location in the AO Fox Tri-Town Campus building at 43 Pearl Street in Sidney. The Open House runs from 3:00 - 5:00 pm, more information is available at the Tri-County Senior Center Facebook Page.

Another lawsuit is being filed to throw out the new redistricting maps that set the boundaries of State Assembly districts. The lawsuit has been filed by a bipartisan group of political activists that contends that the maps drawn by the legislature, it asks for a judge to throw out the Assembly Maps and move all of New York’s primary elections to the same day. Currently, the Assembly & Gubernatorial Primaries are scheduled for June, while the State Senate & Congressional primaries have been moved to August.

The Village of Sidney is preparing for its 250th anniversary celebration June 10th & 11th, Sidney Chamber of Commerce President Teri Schunk comments:

(Teri Schunk 5-16-22)

The Full schedule is available at the Sidney Chamber of Commerce Facebook page, more information is also available at (607) 561-2642 or by email: office@sidneychamber.org.

Catholic Charities announced an "ALL YOU CAN EAT PASTA DINNER" to be held at the Quality Inn on Route 23 in Oneonta this Thursday from 5:u to 7:30 PM. Tickets are $10.00 for adults, $5.00 for children ages 5 to 12, under 5 are free, tickets can be purchased by calling the Sidney office at 607-604-4071.

During the Summer months, the American Red Cross typically sees a decline in donors, which can impact patient care. The Red Cross asks people to donate at the next available Blood Drive in their area, one is being held in Sidney today from 1:00 to 6:00 PM at the American Legion at 22 Union Street. To schedule an appointment, download the Red Cross Blood Donor App, visit RedCrossBlood.org or call 1-800-RED CROSS.

The Delaware County Sheriff's Office announced the arrest of 46 year old Gweyn Brockway of Davenport on charges of Forgery and Grand Larceny in the Town of Sidney. Brockway was working as a Home Health Care nurse, she was accused of stealing, forging and depositing checks owned by a patient and her family, totaling over $17,000. Brockway and charged her with 21 counts of Forgery and 1 Count of Grand Larceny, she was issued appearance tickets for Town of Sidney Court at a later date.

Catholic Charities announced another Community Mass Food Distribution on May 24th at 11:00 AM at the River Street Fire Station in Sidney, spokesperson Penny McKnight told WCDO News that volunteers are needed on the 24th:

(Penny McKnight 5-11-22)

Those planning on attending the Mass Food Distribution are asked to not arrive before the 11:00 AM start time, in order to avoid traffic issues & large crowds.

New Yorkers will have to wait until August to vote in the primary elections for Congressional Seats and State Senate Seats, following a a ruling by U.S. District Judge Gary Sharpe of Albany on Tuesday. The Primaries for governor and the state Assembly are still scheduled for June. A state judge and an independent expert are now drawing up new maps, which were ordered after a judge ruled that Democrats gerrymandered the maps to get more representation & ordered new maps be drawn.

A.M. NEWS Wednesday 5-11-22

Antonio Delgado announced today that the Delgado for New York campaign committee is officially open, with a new campaign website, delgadoforny.com. Delgado will be on the ticket with Governor Hochul in the June 28th primary and the November 8th general election. Delgado has until June 1st to formally resign from Congress, to then allow another Democratic Party Candidate to run for the 19th Congressional District, The primary for that race will be in August.

P.M. NEWS MONDAY 10-18-21

UHS hospitals announced that they are temporarily suspending visitation for all areas of Wilson Medical Center in Johnson City, Binghamton General Hospital and all UHS Primary & Specialty Care locations in the greater Binghamton region. UHS officials announced that the temporary suspension is due to the unprecedented outbreak of COVID-19, more information about the exceptions is available at nyuhs.org.

The Village of Sidney is beginning to gather the community’s ideas for reusing publicly owned land near the Susquehanna River. Sidney is 1 of 2 communities Statewide to receive support from The Nature Conservancy, Sidney Grants Manager Clarissa Walrath said that the village received a $60,000 grant to deal with flood mitigation issues:

(Clarissa Walrath 10-18-21)

Walrath said that after the surveys are out to the public, a planned workshop on Thursday, November 11 at 5:30 PM, the meeting will focus on community’s vision for types of outdoor amenities that would enhance the Village, it will be held as an online Zoom meeting. Login information for the meeting will be posted at resilient-sidney.com/events. Village of Sidney residents will receive a mailed newsletter providing more information in the coming weeks, Sidney Residents can also call 561-2320.

Congresswoman Claudia Tenney will hold a telephone town hall for anyone who lives in the 22nd Congressional District on Wednesday, from 6:00 to 7:00 PM. Registration is requested for constituents of the 22nd District at 202-225-3665 or RSVP online at tenney.house.gov/rsvp

A.M. NEWS MONDAY 10-18-21

Nasir Azmat of Franklin accepted a plea deal Friday in the Town of Sidney court, he pleaded guilty to overdriving, torturing, and injuring animals. Azmat was sentenced to 60 days in jail followed by 3 years of probation; he cannot own, possess or register animals during the 3 year probation. Azmat will also be placed on the Delaware County Animal Abuse Registry. Azmat was charged in February 2020 after Delaware County Sheriff's Office found 20 dogs in deplorable conditions on Azmat's property, the dog were allegedly used for dog-fighting.

Delaware County Board of Elections announced that the Local Primary Election date is June 22nd, with the polls will be open from 6:00 AM to 9:00 PM. Primary races include the Republican Party primaries for the Town of Colchester Council & the Walton Superintendent of Highways. More information is available at 832-5321, sample ballots are available delcony.us/departments.

The Sidney Chamber of Commerce announced their annual winners at their meeting Tuesday, the Non-Profit award winner is the Sidney Library, Head Librarian Beth Paine commented:

(Beth Paine 6-3-21)

The Sidney Chamber announced Erin Insinga of the Delaware Valley Humane Society is the Citizen of the Years winner, East Main Lanes as the Business of the Years winner & Sidney School Superintendent Eben Bullock as the "Better Together" award winner, the Chamber is tentatively planning their annual Dinner in September.

A.M. NEWS 6-3-21

State Police responded Tuesday Night to the Perch Pond Cemetery on Nabinger Hill Road in Colesville for a report of a vehicle that struck a tree. 20 Year old Joshua Klee of Nineveh was the only occupant and was pronounced dead at the scene.

Bassett Healthcare Network’s Fox Pediatrics at FoxCare Center in Oneonta is offering first dose Pfizer vaccines for patients 12 and up Today, Clinics are from 4:00 to 6:00 PM, appointments can be made at 433-1790. More information is available at bassett.org/covid-19.

P.M. NEWS Monday 12-21-20

Governor Cuomo held a COVID briefing this morning, as phase 1 of COVID Vaccines are being administered around the state for health care workers, the Governor discussed the prioritizing of the vaccine distribution earlier today:

(Cuomo 12-21-20)

Over the weekend, 38,000 vaccines were administered, there were 350 Bassett Hospital employees received the COVID vaccines, more information about the vaccine program is available at ny.gov/vaccine.

The Greene Central School District announced that their Primary and Intermediate schools had to go to remote learning today, due to a water main break. Students from Pre-K to 5th grade students were affected. Also, Due to the poor road conditions, all students in the Harpursville Schools will be fully remote Tuesday & Wednesday.

There were many who did not or could not pick up their gifts at the "Operation Merry Christmas" Giveaway day over the weekend at the AO Fox Hospital Tri Town Hospital in Sidney. Those who could not make it to an extended giveaway earlier today are asked to call Dorene Ireland at 643-6334 to make arrangements for pick up prior to Christmas day.

Delaware County Sheriff's office reported that a disabled vehicle blocking the I-88 exit ramp in the Town of Sidney Wednesday evening resulted in a Norwich man being ticketed. 23-year-old Richard Finnegan is accused of operating the vehicle while his driving privileges were suspended for failure to answer a summons in the Town of Norwich Court. Finnegan was ticketed for aggravated unlicensed operation and for unlicensed operation of a motor vehicle and will appear in the Town of Sidney Court on a later date.

Dan Butterman of Oneonta has emerged as the winner of the Democratic Primary over Corey Mosher of Hamilton, to run for the 121st Assembly District.  Butterman will run against Republican Incumbent John Salka of Brookfield, who defeated longtime democratic assemblyman Bill Magee in 2018.

Ascension Lourdes Hospital of Binghamton has teamed up with Chase Memorial Nursing Home & Rehab, to open the Lourdes Medical Group at 12 School Street in New Berlin, Lourdes Hospital CEO Kathy Connerton explains:

(Kathy Connerton 7-7-20)

New Berlin Mayor Terry Potter told WCDO News that the project was about 3 years in the making, & it is especially important to have it opening during the current situation:

(Terry Potter 7-7-20)

The Primary Care facility will open on in New Berlin on July 13th.

Sidney Town Supervisor Gene Pigford announced that the next Sidney Town Board Meeting will be held live at 7:00 pm this Thursday, July 9th at 44 Grand Street in Sidney.  Social distancing and masks will be required for entrance. Public attendance is limited to 30% of the meeting room capacity and seats are available until that capacity is reached.  Arrangements will also be in place to view the Meeting via Zoom. A link will be provided on the Town website.

Sidney Center residents are advised that a follow up Re-Zoning meeting with Town Supervisor Gene Pigford will be held Thursday, July 16th, @ 6:30PM @ the firemen's field in downtown Sidney Center. The meeting was arranged following a meeting last week on July 1st, where Sidney Center residents wanted more information regarding the potential for rezoning a sizable portion of the hamlet.

All area school districts passed their budgets yesterday.  Capital projects were passed in Afton, Charlotte Valley, Delaware Academy, Oneonta & Greene.  Bus & vehicles propositions passed in Franklin, Deposit, Delaware Academy, Afton, Bainbridge Guilford, Norwich, Unadilla Valley, Oxford, Edmeston, Laurens, Oneonta,  Library budgets were passed in Sidney, Deposit, Norwich, Oxford & a Capital reserve fund vote was passed in Sidney.

U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand is pushing for the inclusion of the Child Care Is Essential Act in the next coronavirus relief package, as that industry took a major hit from the Pandemic:

(Gillibrand 6-17-20)

The Act would establish a $50 billion Child Care Stabilization Fund to provide grants to stabilize child care providers who were still open during the pandemic and would help child care providers that were forced to close, to safely reopen.

4 people are running to get the Republican Party Nomination on Primary day on June 23rd, in the 122nd Assembly District.  The seat is being vacated this year by the retiring Cliff Crouch, Area landowner’s rights activist Vic Furman is running, he told WCDO News about his experiences & agenda:

(Vic Furman 6-17-20)

Furman faces opposition from James Powers, Joe Angelino & Nick Libous.

New York State Senate Minority Leader John Flanagan announced that he would not seek re-election to the Senate this fall, he announced Tuesday that effective June 28th, and he will be ending his State Senate career and pursuing a private sector opportunity.

Hospice & Palliative Care of Chenango County will hold an online "Service of Remembrance" at 7:00 PM tonight on YouTube. More information about the service is available at hospicechenango.org or by calling 334-3556.

Attorney General Letitia James announced that the state has renewed an order to halt the collection of medical and student debt owed to the State that has been referred to their Office, for an additional 30-day period, starting tomorrow through Thursday, July 16th. After this 30-day period, the Attorney General will reassess the needs of state residents for another possible extension.

The American Red Cross is holding a blood drive in Sidney today.  The drive will be held from 2:00 to 6:00 PM at the Sidney Elks Lodge, at 104 River Street, appointments can be made by downloading the free Blood Donor App, visiting RedCrossBlood.org, calling 1-800-RED CROSS or enabling the Blood Donor Skill on any Alexa Echo device.

4 people are running for the Republican Party Nomination to run for the 122nd Assembly District, to replace the retiring Cliff Crouch.  James Powers of South New Berlin are the only candidate of the 4 Republicans who has held a political office in Otsego County Government, he told WCDO News of that experience & his agenda:

(James Powers 6-16-20)

Powers faces competition from Joe Angelino, Nick Libous & Vic Furman in the Republican Primary.

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

(Kim Schlosser 5-22-20)

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

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

(Anna Banks 5-22-20)

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

(Mike Banks 5-22-20)

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

Congressman Antonio Delgado announced the award of nearly $100,000 in federal funding through U.S. Department of Transportation & the Federal Aviation Administration. Delgado announced $69,000 for Columbia County Airport in Hudson and $30,000 for Sidney Municipal Airport in Delaware County.

Governor Cuomo signed an executive order delaying village
elections statewide until the April 28th presidential primary.  The Governor said that Public health
officials have been clear that reducing density is one of the most effective
ways to stop the spread, and delaying village elections will help ensure poll
workers and voters are not potentially exposed to the virus and at the same
time maintain integrity in our election system.

Bassett Healthcare announced that for the health and safety
of patients, employees, and the communities that they serve, they are
implementing new visitation restrictions across all network facilities.  Access to clinic buildings and outpatient
service areas at all Bassett Healthcare Network facilities will be limited to
only those patients with scheduled appointments or required business, such as a
prescription pick up.  FoxCare Fitness in
Oneonta is also closed until further notice.
Bassett has set up a central phone number; 607-547-5555, for those who
are concerned they may have symptoms of upper respiratory illness, patients
determined to need an in-person visit will be given an appointment and directed
to next steps.  Also Telemedicine
capabilities are being expanded to be able to screen more patients remotely;
Visitation has been suspended to all inpatient units at the 5 hospitals across
the network and the network’s long-term care facilities.  More information is available at bassett.org.

The State-run Department of
Motor Vehicles locations are moving to an appointment only system to help stop
spread of the coronavirus.   The DMV is
encouraging all New Yorkers to complete routine transactions on its website.

Governor Cuomo signed an executive order directing all
schools in New York to close by Wednesday, for 2 weeks ending April 1, at that
time, the state will reassess whether to extend the school closures further and
continue to suspend the 180-day instructional requirement.   Schools that exceed the closure period
without state authorization will not be exempted from the 180-day rule.  School districts are required to develop a
plan for alternative instructional options, including distance learning;
distribution and availability of meals; and daycare, with an emphasis on
children of parents of first responders and healthcare workers.

An American Red Cross blood drive will be hosted today by
the Sidney Elks Lodge 104 River St. Sidney.
The drive will run from 2:00 to 6:00 pm, appointments are requested at
Register online at redcrossblood.org, call 1-800-redcross, walk ins welcome.

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.”

A.O. Fox Hospital, part of Bassett Healthcare Network, has
been awarded $10,000 by the MultiPlan Rural Health Grant Program to help launch
a food “farmacy” based at its Tri-Town Campus in Sidney.  Spokesperson Sarah Buttice comments:

(Sarah Buttice 9-9-19)

The prescription food location will open in January; Buttice
said that they will partner with local businesses including Great American,
Price Chopper, Hannaford, the Regional Food Bank of Northeastern New York, as
well as local farms and food pantries.
In Delaware County, it is estimated that more than 8,400 people suffer
from hunger.

Governor Cuomo is pushing to move up the state’s primary
Election Day from April to February, in order to get a larger voter turnout by
combining the presidential, congressional and state elections.  15 other states combine their primaries.

An Area Boy Scout recruitment effort will be held this week
for students in the Sidney Central School District, spokesman Paul Van Der
Kruik explains:

(Paul Van der Kruik 9-9-19)

Additional information about the Sidney Recruitment, or
others around the region, can call the Leatherstocking Council at 432-6491.

A.O. Fox Hospital has
been awarded $10,000 by the MultiPlan Rural Health Grant Program to help launch
a food “farmacy” based at its Tri-Town Campus in Sidney.  The prescription food location will open in
January 2020, & will provide emergency food, education, and navigation
services to patients and their families in need. A.O. Fox Hospital will partner
with local businesses & it will operate on an outpatient basis; visitors
will receive vouchers for food prescribed by their primary care providers.  In Delaware County, it is estimated that more
than 8,400 people suffer from hunger; more than 1,800 of those struggling are
children. In children, hunger can lead to growth impairment, poor academic
performance, behavioral issues, sickness, social disorders, and more.

Delaware County Sheriff’s Deputies
arrested 19 year old Brianna Reynolds of Auburn for Aggravated Unlicensed
Operation of a Motor Vehicle, Unlicensed operator and Speeding at 85 miles per
hour in a 55 mph zone.  Reynolds was
stopped by deputies on State Highway 17 in the Town of Hancock; she will appear
in Town of Hancock Court at a later date.

Governor Cuomo signed legislation, sponsored by local State
Senator Jen Metzger, to increase health and safety standards in animal care for
all pet dealers. The bill sets guidelines for sanitary living enclosures, food
receptacles, annual veterinary examinations, regular grooming, and separate
spaces for pregnant dogs for sufficient room to nurse and care for a litter, it
will also require that primary enclosures for animals must be cleaned daily and
sanitized every two weeks.

Assemblyman Cliff Crouch announced today that the 4
libraries in the 122nd Assembly District have received funding through the
State Library and State Department of Education for various construction
projects and improvements. The funding derives from a $34 million capital fund
set aside for public library construction and broadband internet projects that
was secured in last year's State Budget.
The 4 libraries awarded funding includes Guernsey Memorial Library in
Norwich, Mary Wilcox Memorial Library in Whitney Point, Sidney Memorial Public
Library& the Ogden Free Library in Walton.

Governor Cuomo today announced $187 million in funding to
support 25 statewide projects that will protect and transform New York State's
health care system. This funding from the Statewide Health Care Facility
Transformation Program will improve patient care through the development of
high-quality medical facilities and programs serving the inpatient, primary
care, mental health, substance use disorder and long-term care needs of
communities throughout the State.  The
Southern Tier will get 11.5 Million Dollars.

Local law enforcement officers
will take to the rooftops of several Dunkin' restaurants Friday Morning for the
annual "Cops on Top" event in order to raise awareness and funds for
Special Olympics New York. Locally, Law enforcement agencies are participating
Friday morning at the Dunkin Donuts at 117 State Route 7 in Sidney.

Governor Cuomo signed legislation authorizing firefighters
and other emergency medical responders to remove animals in unattended motor
vehicles under conditions that endanger their health or well-being. This
legislation will help reduce wait times when calls are made to 911 that a pet
is in danger, especially in areas and at times when law enforcement or animal
control availability is limited. The bill goes into effect immediately.

19th District Congressman Antonio Delgado will be holding a
town hall meeting today at Awestruck Ciders at 8 Winkler Road in Sidney.  The meeting will be held from 6:30 to 7:30
PM.

The Sidney Village Planning Board's regularly scheduled
meeting for Today at 6:00 PM has been cancelled.  The next meeting will be held Thursday
September 5, 2019 at 7:00 pm.

The Greater Chenango Cares event
will be held July 11th through July 20th at the Norwich High School.  Elizabeth Monaco of Chenango United Way is
helping to put this event together & volunteers are needed to assist the
military medical technicians at this event:

(Elizabeth Monaco 6-3-19)

Monaco said people can call the
Chenango United Way at 334-8815 for additional information.

Catskill Area Hospice and
Palliative Care is hosting a Caregiver Support Group at Tri-Town Regional
Hospital in Sidney beginning Monday, July 15th.
The group will meet 6 times to provide information and support for those
who are taking care of seriously ill family members or friends.  Caregivers will have an opportunity to
identify concerns, discuss feelings, receive support from others, and locate
community resources which may be helpful for their unique situations.  There is no cost, but registration is
required at 432-5525.

The Sidney Community Band
Announced their 2019 Don Clayton Memorial Trailside Concert Series will be held
at the Pavillion at Keith Clark Park at 6:30 PM on wednesday nights, starting
July 10th with the Sidney Community Band.
Shows will be held each wednesday night through August 21st, All
concerts free and open to the public. More information is available at the
Sidney Community Band facebook page.

Republican primary Results have been released; Town of
Sidney Clerk Primary was won by Sheila Paul over Lisa French 134 - 112. The
Broome County District Attorney Republican Primary was won by Paul Battisti by
a slim margin over Michael Korchak, in the Republican Primary for Norwich Mayor,
Shawn Sastri handily defeats incumbent
mayor Christine Carnrike  & North
Norwich Town Supervisor between Timothy Brown & Robert Wansor ended as a
tie, 51 votes each. The Republican primary for Town of Hancock Highway Superintendent
was won by Neil Emerich, Democratic Party Primaries for the Oneonta Common
Council, were won by Mark Davies in Oneonta’s 2nd ward & Katie Lapari Shue
won in the 4th Ward.

Delaware County Public Health will be holding a free Car
Seat Safety Event at Delaware Opportunities State Highway 10 Hamden, from 10:00
AM to 1:00 PM.  Parents and caregivers
can have their child’s car seat checked at no cost by certified child safety
seat technicians    more information is
available at 832-5200.

Hospice & Palliative care of Chenango County will hold
their annual "Camp-4-Seasons" on Saturday March 23rd from 9am - 3pm,
at the Stanford Gibson Primary School in Norwich.   Grief Services Coordinator Rachel Barletta
explains:

(Rachel Barletta 3-1-19)

Barletta said that registration is requested by March 18th,
more information is available at 334-3556 or by email at
rbarletta@hospicechenango.org.

A fundraising “Sock Hop” will be held Saturday at the Sidney
Elks Lodge to raise money for the Delaware Valley Humane Society, Spokespe4rson
Robin Ballo comments:

(Robin Ballo 3-1-19)

The Doors will open at 5:30 PM; all proceeds will go to the
Delaware Valley Humane Society.

The Delaware County Sheriff’s Office arrested Mark Tubbs and Angela Huggins both of Sidney, for 1 count each of Unlawful Possession of Marijuana and Endangering the Welfare of a Child. The pair are accused of possessing marijuana in their apartment, where a 9 year old child also resided. The arrests came during the execution of arrest warrants at the Huggins and Tubbs residence by the Delaware County Sheriff’s Office Special Response Team. Both Huggins and Tubbs will appear in the Village of Sidney Court shortly to answer these charges.

The Town of Sidney Zoning Board of Appeals meeting, regarding the Muddy River Hops, that was originally scheduled for this evening at 7:00 PM has been cancelled. The meeting was due to be held in the Town of Sidney Office building at 44 Grand Street.

The Town of Hartwick will receive $1 million in grant money from the state for upgrades to the town’s water system. The money will be used to replace water mains, the auxiliary well and the primary well-house building, and to help pay for new mixers for the water storage tank and an emergency backup generator, as well as replacing or repairing water meters.

New York state’s health care jobs exceeded 1.2 million in 2017, according to a report released today by State Comptroller Tom DiNapoli. Health care employment rose by more than 18 percent over the past decade, more than double the pace of overall employment growth. DiNapoli’s report found the health care industry in New York provided nearly $71 billion in wages, with an average annual wage of $57,200 in 2017. New York ranked 3rd in the nation for its share of health care jobs.

The Main Street Railroad Tracks in Sidney were re-opened Wednesday afternoon, following the conclusion of track work by crews from Norfolk Southern Railroad. Sidney Village crews began milling work on River Street & Division Street this morning.

Attorney General Barbara Underwood announced the guilty pleas of Joseph Zupnik & Daniel Herman, the former owners and operators of Focus Rehabilitation and Nursing Center in Cooperstown, for endangering the welfare of an incompetent or physically disabled person. Herman and Zupnik's guilty pleas included admissions that between May 28th and June 1st 2016, they recklessly acted in a manner likely to be injurious to the physical, mental, or moral welfare of a physically disabled person & failing to provide sufficient staff to provide the necessary care for one Focus resident, including, nutrition, medications, and incontinence care. Zupnik and Herman face sentencing on October 10, 2018.

Attorney General Barbara Underwood announced her office's Election Day Hotline, which is available to help troubleshoot and resolve a range of issues encountered by voters at the polls during the statewide primary election today. The Attorney General urges voters experiencing problems or issues at the polls to call the office's hotline at 800-771-7755 or email civil.rights@ag.ny.gov at any time between 6:00 AM and 9:00 PM on Thursday. The hotline will be staffed by attorneys and staff in the Attorney General's Civil Rights Bureau.