WCDO Radio News

The State Police, the State DOT and the Thruway Authority announced that State Police and local law enforcement agencies issued a record number of tickets during 2021’s Operation Hardhat, which is a joint initiative to crack down on work zone violations and highlight the importance of safe driving when encountering construction, maintenance and emergency operations along state highways. A total of 2,336 tickets were issued during Operation Hardhat details this year, breaking the previous record of 2,018 tickets set during 2020. The region with the highest number of Tickets was the Southern Tier, with 490.

State Senator Peter Oberacker announced that Construction Mechanic First Class Richard Scheiner or Worcester is the first veteran from his district to be inducted into the State Senate Veterans’ Hall of Fame. Scheiner served as a member of the Naval Seabees from 1979 to 1994, receiving numerous awards during his service time. The induction ceremony was held virtually earlier today.

A.M. NEWS Thursday 11-11-21

Delaware County Public Health reported 2 more COVID deaths for the period of Tuesday & Wednesday, with 60 new positive cases and a positivity rate up to 8.5%. Delaware County reports 212 active cases, 11 are hospitalized and 298 are quarantined, the total number of deaths is now 67. 52.7% of County residents are fully vaccinated.

P.M. NEWS Tuesday 10-26-21

Governor Kathy Hochul announced that the State DOT & Emergency crews are gearing up to respond to any issues that pop up due to the nor'easter spinning across the state today & into tonight. Governor Hochul declared a State Disaster Emergency for several counties, including Broome, Chenango, Delaware, & Otsego Counties, locally; The National Weather service has Flood Watch's & Flood Warnings in effect throughout the state.

State Police reported that no one was injured in a prolonged dangerous issue early Monday Morning. Delaware County 911 received about 30 calls regarding a wrong-way driver on State Route 17 in Hancock travelling eastbound in the westbound lanes. Troopers responded, coordinated a road closure of State route 17 East of Exit 94 and were able to stop the vehicle. The investigation found that an 86-year-old man from Ithaca had not returned home and had been reported missing by his wife to the Ithaca Police Department, the man was suffering from Dementia, he was transported to an area hospital, and there were no reported accidents or injuries from the incident.

The New York State Department of Labor today released preliminary local area unemployment rates for September 2021. Rates are calculated using methods prescribed by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. The State's area unemployment rates rely in part on the results of the Current Population Survey, which contacts approximately 3,100 households in New York State each month. To recap last week's statewide press release, New York State's seasonally adjusted unemployment rate decreased from 7.4% in August to 7.1% in September 2021. Locally, Chenango County had 3.8% unemployment, Delaware County 4% & Otsego County 3.9% in September.

Delaware County Sheriff's Office arrested 24 year old Elizabeth Crandall of Meredith after Deputies observed a vehicle fail to stop at the stop sign at the intersection of County Highway 26 and State Highway 10 in Hamden. A check of Crandall’s driver’s license revealed that her driving privileges were suspended for failure to answer a summons out of the Town of Franklin Court. Crandall was charged with Aggravated Unlicensed Operation of a Motor Vehicle, Failure to Stop at a Stop Sign, and Operating a motor Vehicle with an Obstructed View, she was released on and directed to appear at the Hamden Town Court on a later date.

Governor Kathy Hochul announced the grand opening of Binghamton University's Decker College of Nursing and Health Sciences in Johnson City, Monday. The State has invested a total of $287 million to complete the 13-acre Health Sciences Campus, which includes Decker College, More than 130 faculty and staff are employed, with more than 700 students.

According to preliminary figures released today by the New York State Department of Labor, the number of private sector jobs in New York State increased over the month by 14,800, or 0.2%, to 7,524,900 in September 2021. New York State's seasonally adjusted unemployment rate decreased from 7.4% to 7.1% in September 2021.

The Food & Drug Administration and the Centers for Disease Control & Prevention are investigating an outbreak of salmonella linked to whole, fresh onions, distributed nationwide by ProSource Produce of Idaho, the contaminated onions were imported from Mexico. ProSource has agreed to recall red, yellow and white onions imported from Mexico with import dates from July 1 to Aug. 27th, The CDC reported there are at least 11 persons infected with Salmonella in New York State.

The State Department of Transportation is looking to hire & train drivers for snowplows for the coming winter season, Drivers & other DOT positions can be found at ny.gov/programs/nysdot-employment-opportunities.

A.M. NEWS THURSDAY 10-21-21

Delaware County Public Health reported 2 more COVID Deaths for the period of Tuesday & Wednesday, bringing the COVID Death Toll to 62. Delaware County reported 30 new cases, for a 9.28% positivity rate, they have 125 active cases, with 5 hospitalized & 220 quarantined. 51.7% of Delaware County residents are vaccinated.

Former State Senator Jen Metzger, who was recently appointed to the state's Cannabis Control Board will be the featured speaker for the Delaware County Chamber of Commerce's virtual Third Thursday, this morning from 8:30 to 9:30 a.m. to Register go to delawarecounty.org/chamber-events to get the link to the ZOOM presentation free.

Governor Kathy Hochul today announced that because of the low percentage of 12 to 18 year old getting vaccinated against COVID 19, more & more pop up vaccination sites will be set up at school around the state:

(Hochul 9-30-21)

Hochul said that the statewide positivity rate on COVID tests has been hovering around 2.8% for the last week, State officials are also working at getting pop up vaccination sites at houses of worship around the state, to continue to get the percentage of New Yorkers vaccinated higher & higher.

Governor Kathy Hochul today announced $45 million in state grant funding has been awarded to counties statewide for improving the operability of emergency communications across the State. This funding will enable local governments to expand their ability to communicate, exchange valuable data, and streamline information to enhance collaboration and assist first responders. Locally, Broome County receives $710,422, Chenango County gets $511,743, Delaware County gets $604,415 & Otsego County receives $663,885.

Delaware County Public Health reported 29 new cases of COVID 19 on Tuesday & Wednesday, with a positivity rate over 8%. Public Health reports 145 active cases, 6 are hospitalized & 320 quarantined. Only 50.6% of the total population are vaccinated, 74% of the positive cases are unvaccinated 26% of the positive cases are Pre-K-12th students/employees

A.M. NEWS WEDNESDAY 9-30-21

The American Red Cross continues to ask for eligible people to donate blood, as blood supplies are at their lowest since the summer of 2015 locally. Blood Drives are being held locally today in Morris from 12:00 PM to 5:00 PM at the Zion Episcopal Church, at 162 Main Street, and in South Kortright from 11:30 AM to 5:30 PM at the South Kortright Central School on State Highway 10. Appointments can be made by using the Red Cross Blood Donor App, visiting RedCrossBlood.org or calling 1-800-RED CROSS.

State Police were dispatched to State Route 28 in Andes for a State DOT truck struck by a vehicle. An investigation at the scene revealed that 4 DOT workers were in a truck retrieving cones in a work zone. 2 of the occupants of the DOT truck exited the vehicle when a 43-year-old male rear ended it. The 43-year-old male was not injured. The driver of the DOT truck, a 53-year-old male sustained a shoulder injury, A 24-year-old male passenger in the DOT truck was not injured, the 2 DOT workers that had stepped out were injured after they jumped over the guiderail; one had a minor Knee injury, the other sustained a laceration to the arm, he was transported to O’Connor Hospital for further medical care. Impairment was not a factor in the crash.

A new study conducted by the U.S. Department of Agriculture appears to indicate white-tailed deer can carry the COVID-19 virus, but health officials say the chances of a human getting infected by a COVID-positive deer are low, but they still urge hunters to take precautions. The study analyzed serum samples from free-ranging white-tailed deer in four states, New York, Pennsylvania, Michigan and Illinois, 40% of deer tested were positive for antibodies, meaning they had been exposed to the virus at some point. The New York Department of Environmental Conservation said that the risk of animals spreading COVID-19 to people is low.

P.M. NEWS WEDNESDAY 9-22-21

State Police announced today that 22 year old Michael Andreev Jr. has been charged with 2 counts of 2nd degree murder & 1 count of criminal possession of a weapon, for allegedly stabbing his father, 67 year old Michael Andreev Sr. and 12-year-old sister, Sofia Trusova in Jordanville Sunday.  State Police said that they found Andreev Jr. in the front yard of the family residence with a neck laceration Sunday, he was taken to a Syracuse Hospital for treatment, and he was discharged today & was taken into police custody, he was processed and was being held in the Herkimer County Jail without bail, the investigation is still ongoing.

The State Senate hearings into New York's election difficulties concluded in Albany Tuesday.  Several County Board of Elections reported problems in the 22nd Congressional District race Between Anthony Brindisi & Claudia Tenney, which took weeks to decide in court; eventually Tenney was declared the winner.  Reforms may be forwarded in the State Senate based on the findings in the latest hearings.

Catholic Charities in Sidney is helping to administer the New York State Excluded Worker Fund, for those who lost income because of the COVID 19 pandemic.  Those who would like assistance in applying, or who would like more information can call 604-4071 or 353-5732, or visit dol.ny.gov/EWF.

A.M. NEWS WEDNESDAY 9-22-21

Governor Kathy Hochul announced 120 new "VaxtoSchool" pop-up vaccination sites will take place across New York over a 12-week-period as part of the campaign to increase vaccination rates among younger New Yorkers.   The State Department of Health will be working with localities, community-based organizations and healthcare centers to establish these new sites in all regions of the state, each region will be hosting 2 new events per week.

The State Department of Transportation will hold a public meeting today at 5:30 PM, to present the design plans for improvements to pavement, sidewalks and drainage on State Route 7 in the Village of Otego.   The project will enhance bicycle and pedestrian safety and improve resiliency along Main Street from the I-88 ramps to the Otsdawa Creek Bridge.  The in-person event will take place at the Otego Fire Department at 5 River Street in Otego.  To join online, open the project website at dot.ny.gov/Route7Otego and click on the "Attend Live Public Meeting", more information is available at 772-7333.

The New York State Department of State and the Division of Consumer Protection warned New Yorkers of a fraudulent letter scheme. These illegitimate letters have the heading “Executive Letter of Guarantee” and claim that recipients are due to receive a large payment, supposedly being held by the Department of State, to settle debts relating to the sale of timeshares.  The letters are not genuine and were not issued by the Secretary of State.

The State Department of Transportation will hold a public meeting on Wednesday, September 22 at 5:30 PM, to present the design plans for improvements to pavement, sidewalks and drainage on State Route 7 in the Village of Otego. The project will enhance bicycle and pedestrian safety and improve resiliency along Main Street from the I-88 ramps to the Otsdawa Creek Bridge. The in-person event will take place at the Otego Fire Department at 5 River Street in Otego. To join online, open the project website at dot.ny.gov/Route7Otego and click on the "Attend Live Public Meeting", more information is available at 772-7333.

A.M. NEWS FRIDAY 9-17-21

State Police are investigating the intentional burning of a pride flag outside of a home in Gilbertsville.   The flag was hanging on the front porch of the home on Spring Street when it was set on fire sometime between September 9 and September 12.  The fire also caused minor damage to the paint on the front porch.  The homeowner also reported that another pride flag and a “Keep it Kind” lawn sign were stolen from the same property several weeks ago.  It is unknown at this time if the incidents are related.  Anyone with information is asked to New York State Police at (607) 561-7400.

Governor Kathy Hochul announced that $200 Million dollars in additional food assistance through the SNAP program will be available through the end of September.  All SNAP Recipients Will Receive Maximum Food Benefits for the Month, Governor Hochul also directed the state Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance to continue working with the federal government to ensure these supplemental benefits will reach households in need throughout the fall.

State Senator Fred Akshar will join officials from Broome County and the Broome County Health Department to recognize Rebecca Kaufman as the 52nd Senate District's 2021 Woman of Distinction on Wednesday at 10:30 AM at the Broome County Health Department in Binghamton. Kaufman earned this recognition through her work as Director of Public Health for Broome County; Senator Akshar said that she led the Broome community through the pandemic:

(State Senator Fred Akshar 9-7-21)

Akshar said that in addition to her work as the Director of Public Health, she also serves as the Broome Opioid Awareness Council Coordinator to help treat & prevent Substance Abuse disorder & addiction in Broome County.

The State Department of Transportation announced that State Route 28 near Frank Slawson and Epps roads in the town of Franklin will close starting today for a culvert replacement over Knapp Brook. DOT Officials stated that motorists on State Route 28 will be detoured to take state Route 23 to Davenport Center and then take county Highway 10 to Meridale to connect back to state Route 28, the project is expected to be completed on September 22nd. Also, starting today, Old Route 17 in the Town of Windsor will undergo culvert construction; a road closure is near the intersection of 17 and Ostrander Road. Old Route 17 will likely be closed for 2 months & is scheduled to reopen around November 9th.

Gilbertsville-Mount Upton will host a ribbon-cutting ceremony for its Bassett Healthcare School-Based Health Center at 5:00 PM Today. Former State Senator Jim Seward is expected to attend the ceremony, which will begin GMU’s Open House for the 2021-2022 school year. The Open House also will feature a free chicken dinner and the grand opening of the GMU Raiders Apparel Store.

The State Health Department conducted over 100.000 COVID Tests Sunday, with 3660 positives, for a 3.65% positivity rate Hospitalizations were up to 2334, Patients in an ICU bed went up to 519, Patients on ventilators went up to 263, there were 26 deaths from COVID Sunday.

The New York State Department of Transportation is advising motorists that State Route 28 will be closed from Frank Slawson Road to Coe Hill Road in the Town of Meredith, tomorrow through Wednesday, September 22nd, for a culvert replacement. All work is weather dependent. Northbound through traffic will be diverted onto County Route 10 in Meridale and southbound through traffic will be directed onto State Route 23 in Oneonta. Local traffic will retain access to the closure points. For up-to-date travel information, call 511, visit 511NY.org or download the free 511NY mobile app.

A.M. NEWS WEDNESDAY 9-1-21

Governor Kathy Hochul announced a Special Session of the State Legislature today to address New York's rent and eviction crisis, the Open Meetings Law, and the state's cannabis program. Governor Hochul also announced she is extending New York State's eviction moratorium to January 15, 2022.

Governor Kathy Hochul today announced that $89 million in child care provider stabilization grant funds have been disbursed. More than 10,600 of New York State's 18,000 eligible child care providers have applied for Child Care Stabilization Grant funding. To date, child care providers have requested $585 million of the available $1.1 billion in federal funding. The New York State Office of Children and Family Services is administering the funds.

P.M. NEWS THURSDAY 8-26-21

Governor Kathy Hochul has chosen State Senator Brian Benjamin of New York City to be her lieutenant governor, who accepted the position in New York City this afternoon:

(Brian Benjamin 8-26-21)

Benjamin was the senior assistant majority leader in the State Senate, a special election will be held after Labor Day to fill Benjamin's State Senate Seat.

State Police announced that the driver in a fatal accident on I-81 in the town of Triangle Tuesday evening was 64 year old Paul Fridley of Fenton, Missouri. Troopers were dispatched Tuesday at about 6:15 PM for the report of a vehicle on its side & on fire. State Police are asking anyone who may have witness the crash of the Kia Sedona with Missouri plates, to call them at 775-1241.

State Police & Delaware County Emergency Management responded to the report of a woman falling from a rock ledge in the town of Andes Tuesday. 60 year old Corinne Whitaker of Hastings-on-Hudson was pronounced dead at the scene by the Delaware County Medical Examiner’s Office after falling from a cliff on the Snake Pond Hiking Trail at around 8:00 PM Tuesday. State Forest Rangers, the Andes Fire Department and LifeNet medevac assisted at the scene.

The State Department of Transportation announced that State Route 28 near Frank Slawson and Epps roads in the town of Franklin will close September 7th, for a culvert replacement over Knapp Brook. DOT Officials stated that motorists on State Route 28 will be detoured to take state Route 23 to Davenport Center and then take county Highway 10 to Meridale to connect back to state Route 28, the project is expected to be completed on September 22nd.

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Sidney Chamber of Commerce announced their "Halfway to St. Patrick's Day Hooley" event, to be held on Saturday September 25th in downtown Sidney, Chamber President Teri Schunk explains:

(Teri Schunk 8-26-21)

The Chamber is looking for parade participants, they can message the chamber through their Facebook page or email the chamber at office @sidneychamber.org.

A.M. NEWS THURSDAY 8-26-21

Governor Kathy Hochul has directed the State Department of Health to institute a universal mask requirement in all public & private schools, as determined necessary at the discretion of the Commissioner. The Department of Health will issue the requirement through regulatory action established by the Public Health and Health Planning Council. Governor Hochul will also pursue options to mandate vaccines for school employees or require weekly testing in the absence of vaccines and will continue to work with the Department of Health and the Legislature on establishing the mandate.

The American Red Cross continues to urge people to donate blood, as the severe Blood Shortage continues. Donors are strongly urged to give today at the Broad Street Methodist Church in at 74 North Broad Street in Norwich from 9:00 AM to 2:00 PM. Another blood drive is being held today at the South New Berlin Fire Department on State Route 8, from 12:00 Noon until 5:00 PM. Registration is requested at Red Cross Blood.org.

State Police issued over 40 citations during an Operation Hard Hat detail in Broome County Wednesday. Troopers were set up while workers completed bridge work along I-81 in Binghamton, Police issued 25 tickets for speeding, 3 for failing to use seat belts, 3 for using a cell phone use, & 10 others for other infraction.

THE FOXCARE CENTER AND FOXCARE FITNESS IN ONEONTA REMAIN CLOSED TODAY. BASSETT SPOKESPERSON, GABI ARGO EXPLAINS WHY….

(GABBY ARGO 8-13-21)

ARGO SAID THAT A NEW WELL PUMP IS EXPECTED TO ARRIVE AND BE INSTALLED OVER THE WEEKEND AND THEY HOPE TO RESTORE FULL MEDICAL SERVICES BY MONDAY. UPDATES WILL BE POSTED AT BASSETT DOT ORG ON BASSETT’S FACEBOOK PAGE. PATIENTS NEEDING PRESCRIPTIONS SHOULD CALL 547-5127 FOR ASSISTANCE.

THE DELAWARE COUNTY FAIR IN WALTON WILL BE HELD FROM AUGUST 16TH TO THE 21ST THIS YEAR. THIS YEAR’S FAIR WILL FEATURE OVER 150 VENDORS AND NEARLY 15 HUNDRED HEAD OF LIVESTOCK…AS WELL AS MUSIC, ENTERTAINMENT, 4H COMPETITIONS, TRACTOR & TRUCK PULLS, DEMOLITION DERBY, CONTESTS, BIKE GIVEAWAYS, AND EVEN A DAILY GIANT ICE CREAM SUNDAE. THE DELAWARE COUNTY FAIR IS ONE OF THE BIGGEST COUNTY FAIRS IN New York STATE.

The State DOT is looking for people to fill a variety of positions in the Southern Tier. Currently there is a need to hire Snow plow drivers for the upcoming winter, those with CDL’s are preferred, but all applicants are welcome. More information is available at ny.gov.

A.M. NEWS FRIDAY 8-13-21

The Columbus Community Church will be celebrating their 100 anniversary tomorrow with a Chicken Barbecue & other activities, Pastor Dick Sliter explains:

(Pastor Dick Sliter 8-13-21)

Pastor Sliter said that State Senator Peter Oberacker & New Berlin Mayor Peter Lennon will attend, the church is located at 4311 State Highway 80 in New Berlin.

State Comptroller Tom DiNapoli today announced the audit of the Town of Butternuts. The audit found that the board did not provide adequate oversight of the disbursement process and exceeded its authority under New York State Town Law by authorizing insurance claims and annual contracts to be paid before audit and approval. The board also exceeded its authority by allowing a third-party vendor direct access to the town's bank account that, at times, had more than $500,000 on deposit. In addition, the board allowed debit cards to be used, which resulted in a circumvention of the town's disbursement controls. Auditors found that the142 disbursements totaling $142,200 they reviewed were for proper purposes and adequately supported. However, the board, did not audit and approve 53 of these claims totaling $15,600 before payment as required.

Delaware County Sheriff's Office announced that State Route 206, between the Village of Walton and Lower Third Brook Road, was closed to traffic for several hours Tuesday morning as a result of a tractor trailer accident. At approximately 9:30 am., Tuesday morning, Deputies, members of the Walton Volunteer Fire Department and Emergency Squad and State DOT workers responded, the driver, 59 year-old Rogelio Rodriguez, of Decatur, Indiana, was driving an empty milk tanker when he momentarily took his eyes off the road causing the truck to strike the guide cables and a tree. Rodriquez was not injured in the collision.

The State Education Department today released a health and safety guide to help schools and school districts as they plan for the 2021-22 school year. The guide provides strategies, based on information from the Centers for Disease Control and the American Academy of Pediatrics, to position schools and districts to manage the risks for students and staff from COVID-19. The health and safety guide, as well as other back to school resources, are available on the Department’s Back to School website.

P.M. NEWS MONDAY 8-9-21

The victim of an August 5th shooting in Delhi has been released from the hospital. State Police said that 28 year old William Effner was shot by Roger Lynch of Franklin, who fled the scene and was killed by a member of the State Police Special Operations Response Team member during a standoff on August 6th. Effner was flown to Albany Medical Center with non-life-threatening injuries.

State Police continue to search for the body of 57 year old James Jones of Louisiana in the Whitney Point Reservoir. Jones was Kayaking with a friend Saturday when his boat overturned & he failed to resurface.

IN NEW YORK STATE COVID NEWS...THERE WERE NEARLY 113 THOUSAND COVID 19 TEST RESULTS REPORTED ON SATURDAY, WITH 3467 POSITIVE RESULTS EQUALING 3% OF THOSE TESTED. THERE ARE ELEVEN HUNDRED AND 62 NEW YORKERS IN THE HOSPITAL AND THERE WERE 11 COVID DEATHS SATURDAY. THERE WERE NEARLY 43 THOUSAND VACCINE DOSES ADMINISTERED SATURDAY.

THE NEW YORK STATE SHERIFF'S ASSOCIATION HAS JOINED THE LIST OF THOSE CALLING ON GOVERNOR CUOMO TO STEP DOWN. THE ASSOCIATION'S STATEMENT SAID THAT CUOMO HYPOCRITICALLY CHAMPIONED WOMEN'S RIGHTS TO BE FREE OF SEXUAL HARRASMENT IN THE WORK PLACE. THE STATEMENT ALSO STATED THAT IF THE GOVERNOR DOES NOT RESIGN, THE STATE ASSEMBLY SHOULD PROMPTLY IMPEACH HIM.

THE CHENANGO ARTS COUNCIL IN NORWICH ANNOUNCES IT'S FIRST LIVE PERFORMANCE SINCE THE PANDEMIC CAUSED THEM TO CLOSE DOWN. THE NEW SEASON KICKS OFF THIS SATURDAY AT 7PM WITH MARK SANDS REALTIME DIXIELAND BAND...FEATURING NEW ORLEANS DIXIELAND JAZZ AND MUSIC FROM LOUIS ARMSTRONG, BILLE HOLIDAY, JELLYROLL MORTON AND MORE. TICKETS ARE AVAILABLE AT CHENANGO ARTS DOT ORG, BY CALLING 336-2787, AND AT THE DOOR.

Afton Open Air Market returns Saturday, at 9:00 AM at their location in Afton Next to Suburban Propane on State Route 7, organizer Melissa Matthews OF 6ZERO7 events explains:

(Melissa Matthews 8-6-21)

Matthews said that the full list of vendors and more information is available at AftonMarket dot com.

1 of the women that accused Governor Cuomo of Sexual Harassment has filed a criminal complaint with the Albany County Sheriff's Department. The woman claimed that the Governor reached under her blouse and groped her breast in his office at the Executive Mansion, among other sexual advances. The State Assembly's Judiciary Committee has given Cuomo's Legal team's deadline of August 13th to provide additional evidence in his defense, Cuomo said that he is not planning to resign.

A BILL TO REPLACE THE WORD "INMATE" WITH "INCARCERATED INDIVIDUAL" WAS JUST SIGNED INTO LAW BY GOVERNOR CUOMO. THE BILL PASSED THE NEW YORK STATE ASSEMBLY AND SENATE WITH BIPARTISAN SUPPORT IN JUNE. THE LAWMAKERS WHO WROTE THE BILL CLAIM THAT THE WORD "INMATE" PERMANENTLY DEMONIZED AND STIGMATIZED AN INDIVIDUAL. THE NEW LAW TAKES EFFECT IMMEDIATELY.

TIME IS RUNNING OUT TO SUBMIT APPLICATIONS FOR THE UPCOMING DEPUTY SHERIFF EXAM IN DELAWARE COUNTY. APPLICATIONS MUST BE SUBMITTED TO THE DELAWARE COUNTY PERSONNEL OFFICE IN DELHI NO LATER THAN 4:30PM ON WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 11TH. INFORMATION IS AVAILABLE ON LINE AT DEL CO NY DOT US. THE SHERIFF'S DEPUTY TEST WILL BE GIVEN ON SEPTEMBER 18TH.

IN LIGHT OF THE ATTORNEY GENERAL'S REPORT ON GOVERNOR CUOMO, A DOWNSTATE ASSEMBLYMAN IS URGING ASSEMBLY COLLEAGUES TO JOIN HIM ON 2 PIECES OF LEGISLATION. ASSEMBLYMAN MIKE LAWLER FROM ROCKLAND COUNTY WANTS TO CHANGE THE NAME OF THE MARIO M. CUOMO BRIDGE BACK TO THE TAPPAN ZEE BRIDGE. AND HIS SECOND PIECE OF LEGISLATION WOULD ESTABLISH CRIMINAL PENALTIES FOR RETALIATION AGAINST STATE EMPLOYEES.

IN NEW YORK STATE COVID NEWS, THERE WERE 121,000 COVID TESTS ADMINISTERED TUESDAY WITH 3100 POSITIVE RESULTS. 902 PATIENTS ARE HOSPITALIZED STATEWIDE AND 7 PEOPLE DIED FROM COVID . NEARLY 43,000 VACCINE DOSES WERE ADMINISTERED STATEWIDE TUESDAY.

P.M. News Monday 7-12-21

State Police issued 10,238 tickets statewide during the July 4th Weekend enforcement campaign.  Troopers arrested 195 people for DWI and investigated 648 crashes, including 122 personal injury crashes and 2 fatalities.  3955 were issued tickets for speeding, 202 for distracted driving, 671 for seatbelt violations and 132 for violating the Move Over Law.

Governor Cuomo directed State agencies to prepare emergency response assets as storms are forecast to bring heavy rain and high wind gusts this afternoon & tonight, possibly leading to localized flooding and isolated power outages.  The State DOT,  State Police,  DEC En-Con Police, Forest Rangers, Emergency Management staff are monitoring the situation and are patrolling areas and infrastructure likely to be impacted by more severe weather.   NYSEG crews had restored power in the Tri-County Region today; they are gearing up for more possible outages due to the severe weather expected in their service area.  Broome County announced several road closures in the town of Colesville & in Johnson City today, roads in other towns have been repaired and re-opened earlier today.

On Saturday over 65,000 COVID tests were performed with 666 positives, which was a positivity rate just over 1%, and on Sunday, just fewer than 52,000 were tested statewide, with 573 testing positive, for a 1.1% positivity rate.  Patient Hospitalization were 348, there were 78 ICU Patients and 36 on ventilators, & 1 death from COVID Saturday & 1 on Sunday, over 21 million vaccines have been administered 65.1% of adult New Yorkers have competed their vaccine series.

P.M. NEWS TUESDAY 6-8-21

State Police were dispatched Saturday Afternoon to a 1-vehicle rollover on State Route 17 near exit 84 in the Town of Sanford.  Troopers located a Honda Civic struck the guide rail, crossed the roadway and struck a guide rail on the opposite side of the roadway before leaving the highway & rolling multiple times.  The rear seat passenger of the vehicle, 62 year old Miriam Jimenez of Middletown was deceased, the driver, 23 year old Yanluilly Fernandez of the Bronx and front seat passenger 22 year old Jaynilin Jimenez of the Bronx were transported to Wilson Hospital, the investigation is on-going.

28 year old Randy Butler was arrested by Oneonta Police for allegedly discharging a gun outside the Speedway in Oneonta early Sunday Morning.  Butler got into a verbal altercation with a woman, the incident continued into the parking lot, where another woman became involved, he allegedly pointed the e gun at both women, a physical altercation ensued & Butler discharged his weapon into the ground, he was located, arrested & was arraigned in Oneonta City Court Monday.  State Police assisted with the investigation.

State DOT is advising motorists of long term single lane closures and crossovers on Interstate 88 between Exits 17 and 18 in the Town of Maryland; and Exits 19 to 21 in the Towns of Worcester and Richmondville,  to accommodate pavement renewal and bridge rehabilitation projects. Construction is expected through November 15th, when normal traffic patterns will resume until construction begins again in the spring of 2022.   Up-to-date travel information is available at 511, 511NY.org, or the mobile phone App.

Sidney Town Supervisor Gene Pigford passed away Sunday at Bassett Hospital in Cooperstown.  Pigford was an officer for the Salvation Army for 40 years & served as Sidney Town Supervisor for the last 7 1/2 years.  Calling hours will be held from 5:00 to 8:00pm on Wednesday at C.H. Landers Funeral Chapel, 21 Main Street in Sidney, Graveside services will take place at 1:00pm on Thursday, June 10, 2021 in Evergreen Hill Cemetery, in Unadilla.  Pigford was 76.

A.M. NEWS TUESDAY 6-8-21

11 new pop-up vaccination sites will open in areas where the vaccination rate is significantly lower than the statewide average. In the Southern Tier, a pop up site will be at the Windsor Fire Department at 4 Academy Street in Windsor this Saturday, June 12th.

Identity thefts in New York surged during the pandemic with more than 67,000 complaints filed statewide in 2020, which was 85 percent more than the previous year and more than four times the annual total from a decade earlier, according to a report released today by New York State Comptroller Tom DiNapoli.  Credit card fraud was the most common type of identity theft reported last year, with nearly 25,000 New Yorkers victimized.

The State Clinical Advisory Task Force approved the use of the Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine for 12 - 15-year-olds.  All New York State vaccination sites are open for walk-in appointments to all eligible individuals. Appointments can be made through the Am I Eligible tool or by calling 1-833-NYS-4-VAX.

The State DOT is advising motorists that starting today; the right lanes of US Route 11 northbound and southbound in the Town of Dickinson in Broome County will be closed for approximately 1 year to re-construct the interchange of Exit 5 on I-81. During that time, the on and off ramps of I 81 northbound at Exit 5 will both be reduced to one lane. Travelers on US 11 should expect minor to moderate delays at peak commuting times.  Motorists are urged to slow down and drive responsibly in work zones.

State Senator Fred Akshar released the results of his latest Community Survey.  More than half of those surveyed viewed New York's Vaccine distribution as fair to good, more than 70% have had the vaccine of plan to get it, more than 75% believe that the Governor's Emergency Powers should end very soon, 54% opposed continuing to defer rent and evictions, while support for legalizing marijuana was evenly split. The full results are available on Senator Akshar's website.

Delaware County Public Health announced a Free Rabies Vaccination Clinic For dogs, cats and ferrets on Tuesday May 18th, from 6:30PM-8:30PM at The Deposit Town Clerk’s building at 3 Elm Street; more information is available at 832-5200 or go to delawarecountypublichealth.com.

A.M. NEWS MONDAY 5-10-21

60% of New Yorkers who are 18 years of age or older have received at least one dose of the COVID-19 vaccine, with more than 1 million doses have been administered over the past seven days.  All New York State mass vaccination sites are now open to eligible New Yorkers for walk-in vaccination on a first come first serve basis. The walk-in appointments are reserved for first doses only with second doses to be scheduled automatically after administration of the initial shot.

On Saturday, COVID 19 numbers continue to decrease in New York State.  Hospitalizations Drop to 2,024, the Lowest Since November 15; the number of ICU Patients Drop to 511, the lowest Since November 21 & those on Ventilators Dropped to 317, the Statewide Positivity Rate is 1.32%, there were 35 COVID-19 Deaths Saturday.

The State Department of Transportation is advising motorists of a milling and paving project on a portion of State Route 10/ Main Street beginning Today, May 10th, in the Village of Delhi. Flaggers will be controlling alternating, one-way traffic on Route 10 from Sherwood Road to Meredith Street for approximately 5 days, weather permitting. Alternate side of the street parking will be established within the scope of the project during that time frame.

P.M. NEWS FRIDAY 5-7-21

The State Health Department continues to see a decline in COVID cases across the state.  On Thursday, there were just under 195,000 tests administered, with 2370 positive, for a 1.2% positivity rate.  Hospitalization declined again to 2264, ICU patients’ decreases to 571, the number on ventilators declined to 354, there were 25 COVID deaths Thursday.

Chenango County Department of Public Works announced that starting May 24th, Cold In-Place Recycling will begin on County Road 17, between State Route 206 and State Route 41 in the Towns of Bainbridge and Afton.  The procedure should take 3 days to complete and weather permitting.   The traveling public is asked to find alternate routes if possible.  Local traffic shall be allowed to and from their homes.  More information is available by calling Director of Public Works Shawn Fry at 337-1710.

Delaware County Public Health will be conducting a Single dose Johnson & Johnson COVID-19 vaccination clinic on Wednesday May 12, at 97 Main Street Delhi,  from 1:00 to 3:00 PM.  This vaccination clinic is open to all New York state residents or people who work in the State over the age of 18. Registration is mandatory at apps2.health.ny.gov.  For more information or assistance getting registered call Delaware County Public Health at 607-832-5200.  Public Health reported 2 new cases out of 790 tests Thursday, with 4 hospitalized, 44 active cases & 83 quarantined.

The State Department of Transportation is advising motorists of a milling and paving project on a portion of State Route 10/ Main Street beginning Monday, May 10th, in the Village of Delhi. Flaggers will be controlling alternating, one-way traffic on Route 10 from Sherwood Road to Meredith Street for approximately 5 days, weather permitting. Alternate side of the street parking will be established within the scope of the project during that time frame.

P.M. NEWS TUESDAY 4-27-21

Governor Cuomo visited SUNY Binghamton today and he announced that beginning Thursday, all New York State mass vaccination sites will be Open to eligible New Yorkers 16 and older, for walk-in vaccination on a first come first serve basis. Broome County Executive Jason Garnar urged Broome County Residents to take advantage of this change:

(Garnar 4-27-21)

The Governor also announced the mass vaccination site located at 10 Gannett Drive in Johnson City will move inside the building at the same address, to allow for increased capacity and will be less impacted by any adverse weather conditions.  The Governor stated that the metrics that the state is following will allow for re-opening to continue:

(Cuomo 4-27-21)

The walk-in appointments are reserved for first doses only with second doses to be scheduled automatically after administration of the initial shot. Additionally, all vaccine providers are encouraged to likewise allow walk-in appointments and for eligible New Yorkers.

Chenango County Public Health reported 6 new COVID 19 cases today, bringing their total up to 3219.  They reported 116 active cases, 6 hospitalizations & 455 quarantines.

The Sidney Center Improvement Group will hold a fundraising bake sale this Sunday at 11:00 AM.  The event will be held at the Fire Station Field at the corner of Routes 35 & 23 in Sidney Center

39 organizations in the Southern Tier region were awarded grants totaling $276,168 from the Community Foundation for South Central New York. The successful grant applications will be used for a variety of capital projects, operations, COVID-19 related needs, and programming.  Organizations funded included, among others; museums, theater groups, libraries, school districts, human service agencies, animal welfare, and recreational programs.

A.M. NEWS TUESDAY 4-27-21

Delaware County Public Health reported 11 new COVID cases on Saturday Sunday & Monday combined, The County reports 115 active cases, 19 hospitalized & they are down to 180 quarantined

State Police will conduct “Operation Hard Hat” through this Friday, where they will be patrolling State DOT & Thruway Authority construction sites, to make sure that motorists are obeying flagged personnel & are slowing down in construction zones, Last year State Police issued 1770 tickets during “Operation Hard Hat” which was a 70% increase over 2019.

The Online Learner’s Permit for class D & M driver’s licenses is now available online to New Yorkers, Following a successful pilot program launched last year.  The new service allows people to take the learner’s permit at home, which will cut down on the number of people in DMV offices statewide; more information is available at dmv.ny.gov.

The U.S Census Bureau announced that New York State will lose 1 seat in the House of Representatives, due to the continuing population shifts away from the Northeast, to southern & western States.  New York will have 26 representatives in Congress after redistricting; New York is one of 7 state losing Congressional seats, following the 2020 census.

P.M. NEWS MONDAY 4-26-21

Governor Cuomo announced that the State Fair will be open all 18 days this year in Syracuse, with some restrictions:

(Cuomo 4-26-21)

The Governor also said that Stadiums can go from 20 to 33% capacity, Office can increase from 50 to 75% capacity, Casinos can increase from 25 to 50% capacity & Gyms & Fitness Centers from 33 to 50% capacity.

The Village of Sidney’s annual Arbor Day tree planting ceremony will be held this Friday at 1:00PM at Keith Clark Park. A Commemoration Sugar Maple will be planted, the Sidney Shade Tree Commission has conducted the Arbor Day tree planting tradition since 1994 & Sidney has been designated as a "Tree City USA" community for 24 years.

A.M. NEWS MONDAY 4-26-21

State Health Commissioner Dr. Howard Zucker announced that the state will move forward with using the 1 dose Johnson & Johnson COVID vaccine. The vaccines were re-examined after 8 women out of 8 Million doses developed blood clots, with 1 death reported.

The State Health Department reported 217,972 COVID tests were administered Saturday, with Total number of Positives at 4,087, or 1.88% of all tested, Patient Hospitalization were down to 3,198, the number of ICU patients is down to 742, those on Ventilators went down to 460, there were 50 deaths reported from COVID Saturday.

The State DOT announced that work has begun in Bainbridge, to renew pavement & sidewalks on State Route 206. Alternating lane closures will be controlled by flaggers from 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM between Case Road & East River Road through November.

P.M. NEWS MONDAY 4-12-21

Governor Cuomo announced today that the State University System will work to get every student vaccinated against COVID:

(Cuomo 4-12-21)

The State University system is striving to get all students vaccinated before they return to their home communities this summer.

Chenango Arts Council 2021 Student Art Show will be featured in the Mariea Brown and Raymond Loft Galleries at 27 West Main Street in Downtown Norwich, as well as virtually on their social media pages and website starting tomorrow.  The exhibit will feature 3D art, drawings, and paintings from Chenango County High School Students.  1st place, 2nd and Honorable Mention will be awarded in these categories with the winners announced at the close of the show on Friday, April 30th; more information is available at 336-2787 or by emailing info@chenangoarts.org.

A.M. NEWS MONDAY 4-12-21

The State Health department reported 189,820 vaccine Doses were administered Saturday.  The state  reports Nearly 1.5 Million Doses Administered Over Past 7 Days, Nearly 1 in 4 New Yorkers Are Now Fully Vaccinated, the Vaccine Dashboard Will Update Daily to Provide Updates on the State's Vaccine Program; Go to ny.gov/vaccinetracker

The State Health department reports Hospitalizations Dropped to 4,083 Saturday, the Lowest since December 2nd.  There were 877 Patients in the ICU; 577 Intubated on ventilators, the Statewide Positivity Rate is 2.99%, there were 53 COVID-19 Deaths in New York State Saturday

State DOT Officials reported that a bridge replacement project starts today on State Route 10 in Walton over Pines Brook.  Alternating lane closures will be monitored by temporary signals, the project is expected to be completed in May.

The State DOT reported has begun a construction project on I-88.  The 45.6 Million Dollar project will resurface the road & replace bridges from exit 19 Worcester in Otsego County to Exit 21 Richmondville in Schoharie County.  28 miles of road repaving & 14 bridge rehabilitations are included in this project.

Beginning Friday, Collegiate Sports can bring fans back to the stands across the state, Large Scale Venues can host spectators at 10% indoor & 20% Outdoor capacity, small scale venues can host 2 fans per player.  A Recent negative COVID test or proof of immunization is required.

The State Health Department continues to see favorable numbers regarding COVID.  The state tested over 176,000 New Yorkers Tuesday with 4% positive, the lowest rate since late November, Hospitalizations continue to decrease, the number of Patients in an ICU bed went up slightly & the number of Patients on Ventilators decreased to 955, there were 136 COVID related deaths Tuesday.

State Police responded Tuesday Morning at about 11:30, to Interstate 88 west in the town of Bainbridge for a 2-vehicle crash involving a State Department of Transportation Plow and a garbage truck.   The westbound lanes were closed at exit 9 for several hours to remove the two vehicles.  An investigation revealed that the plow truck was in the left lane plowing the passing lane and shoulder of the roadway.  The garbage truck passed on the right and struck the snowplow wing on the passenger side.  The impact caused both vehicles to go into the median. The garbage truck was registered to Global Transportation in Iowa & was being operated by 77-year-old male from Tennessee, The DOT truck was operated by a 22-year-old male of Oxford with a 55-year-old passenger of Greene, and No injuries were reported.  The roadway reopened around 2:20 p.m.

State Police at Binghamton are searching for a missing runaway teen. 15 year old Trevor Mallory was last seen on February 2nd at 4:30 PM leaving an address on Colesville Road in the town of Colesville.  Troopers were told he got into a grey colored 4-door-sedan; the vehicle make and model are unknown.  Mallory is described as 5 foot 9 inches and 135 pounds.  He has brown hair and brown eyes, anyone with information should contact State Police at 775-1241.

A.M. NEWS WEDNESDAY 2-10-21

Current Oneonta Mayor Gary Herzig announced the passing of Former Oneonta Mayor & Businessman Albert "Sam" Nader at the age of 101.  Nader co-owned the Oneonta Yankees Baseball team from the late 60’s until 2008 & was responsible for getting Oneonta an airport while mayor.

P.M. NEWS TUESDAY 2-9-21

State Police closed down I-88 Near exit 9 in Sidney earlier today following a collision between a DOT Snowplow & a tractor trailer.  The crash occurred at about 11:50 this morning, both vehicles slid off the highway, there has been no report of injuries, the investigation is continuing.

GOVERNOR CUOMO ANNOUNCES LOWEST 7-DAY AVERAGE COVID-19 POSITIVITY RATE SINCE DECEMBER 1 as the 7-Day Average Positivity Rate Drops to 4.38%.  On Monday, 153,648 tests were conducted, with 7,866 positives, a 5.12% rate, there were 7,875 Patient Hospitalizations Statewide Monday, with 1,412 Patients in the ICU; 971 Intubated & 138 deaths were reported.

Chenango County Public Health confirmed their 48th death attributed to COVID 19. They reported 28 hospitalized, 107 active cases & 304 quarantined.  They had 12 new positive cases to report, their total is up to 2249 since the pandemic first hit, they have had 2034 recoveries.  Chenango County Public health also reports that they received 300 total doses of the COVID vaccine this week, Distribution of vaccine will go to more 1A and 1B priority groups that have been identified by the State Health Department.

Governor Cuomo announced an effort to get the Arts back into the spotlight, prior to re-opening theaters & galleries and similar venues around the state:

(Cuomo 2-9-21)

The events & scheduled will be announced shortly, and will be happening in every corner of the state.

A.M. NEWS TUESDAY 2-9-21

Republican Claudia Tenney has been named the winner of the 22nd Congressional District race following vote certification Monday; incumbent Congressman Anthony Brindisi has conceded the race to Tenney.