WCDO Radio News

P.M. NEWS TUESDAY 11-9-21

State Police at Endwell arrested 32 year old James Kvassay of the town of Union on Sunday, for the felony 3rd degree Arson. Troopers were dispatched to assist with a house fire on Foster Street in the town of Union, their investigation revealed that Kvassay allegedly intentionally set the residence on fire, he was arrested & was transported to Broome County Central Arraignment and Processing.

New York Attorney General Letitia James today announced an agreement with the Price Chopper & Tops Friendly Market supermarket chains, where they will divest themselves of 12 stores located around the state, in connection with the companies' proposed merger, in order to promote competition & keep groceries prices from going up even more than they have been. The agreement resolves an 8-month investigation that the Office of the Attorney General conducted with the Federal Trade Commission, it will continue to keep union jobs in the stores. Price Chopper and Tops have closed on the merger the 2 companies today, The stores will keep their names and management but will be owned by a new parent company called Northeast Grocery. C&S Wholesale Grocers agreed to purchase the divested stores, including the Tops location in Cooperstown.

The Delaware County Chamber of Commerce announced the launch of the Great Western Catskills Film Commission. The commission will use of occupancy tax revenue, The Commission was created to develop the motion picture, television, advertising, and entertainment media industry in Delaware County. The primary focus of the commission is to increase local employment opportunities and increase revenue for Delaware County businesses. The project is spearheaded by Delhi resident Lisa Wisely, the website is GreatWesternCatskillsFilmCommission.com, anyone with a potential filming location is encouraged to submit information on the website.

The Sidney Chamber of Commerce will hold their Jolly Holly days parade on December 3rd this year, Chamber President Teri Schunk comments:

(Teri Schunk 11-9-21)

Anyone needing more information can email the chamber: office@sidneychamber.org or call 561-2642.

Operation Merry Christmas has placed more of their Christmas Trees in Area businesses, where people can take a tag off of the tree and return with the item requested on the tag. Program Spokesperson Dorene Ireland said that last year was one of the busiest years in the program's history:

(Dorene Ireland 11-9-21)

Ireland said that the give away day will be on Saturday December 11th starting at 9:00 AM at the AO Fox Hospital Tri Town campus on Pearl Street in Sidney, more information is available on the Opreation Merry Christmas Facebook page.

A.M. News TUESDAY 11-9-21

Assemblyman Joseph Angelino, former Assemblyman Cliff Crouch, and others will be unveiling the newly-named "Colchester Veterans Memorial Bridge" today at 1:00 PM. The ceremony will be held at the James S. Moore Post 167, 4466 River Road in Downsville in the parking lot. Legislation was passed last year by Crouch in honor of the fallen veterans who sacrificed their lives in the line of duty.

The General Clinton Canoe Regatta 2022 Kickoff Meeting will be held tonight in Bainbridge. The meeting will be held at Galaxy Bowl starting at 7:00 PM

Delaware County Public Health reported another death from COVID 19 in their latest report, covering Saturday through Monday, they have had 65 deaths since the start of the pandemic. Delaware County had 76 new cases, for a positivity rate of 6.8.%, they increased to 196 active cases, 12 hospitalized and 220 quarantined.

P.M. NEWS THURSDAY 11-4-21

State Police were dispatched to I-81 north near exit 2 Wednesday morning at about 10:00 AM for a reported 1-vehicle crash. An investigation at the scene revealed that the operator was traveling north when for an unknown reason, she went off the shoulder of the roadway and struck a tree, and was pronounced deceased on scene. State Police have identified the deceased as 33 year old Jocelyn Kendall of Binghamton, the investigation continues.

The State DEC announced that regular firearms season for deer and bear in the Southern Zone begins on Saturday, November 20th, through December 12th. DEC officials said that approximately 85% of New York's 550,000 licensed hunters participate, with the Harvest during that period accounts for nearly 60% of the total statewide deer harvest and 30-60% of the statewide bear harvest. More information is available at dec.ny.gov.

State Assemblyman Joe Angelino, State Senator Mike Martucci, former Assemblyman Cliff Crouch, and Town of Colchester Supervisor Arthur Merrill will be unveiling the newly-named "Colchester Veterans Memorial Bridge" on Tuesday, November 9 at 1:00 PM. The ceremony will be held at the James S. Moore Post 167, River Road in Downsville in the parking lot. The Legislation was passed last year by Crouch; it designates a portion of the state highway system as the "Colchester Veterans Memorial Bridge" in honor of the fallen veterans who have sacrificed their lives to fulfill their patriotic duty.

Outgoing New York City Mayor Bill de Blasio has filed paperwork with the Board of Elections to create a fundraising committee; he is expected to announce a run for Governor. 2 top Democrats have already announced a run for Governor, current Governor Kathy Hochul & Attorney General Letitia James, who are considered the front runners for a Democratic Party Primary in the 2022 Governor’s race in the most recent Siena Poll.

Norwich Native Matt Beadle has formed a Billy Joel Tribute Band with top musicians in the state, and they will be performing in Norwich on Saturday November 20th at 7:30 PM the Martin W. Kappel Theater. Beadle told WCDO News about "The Billy Joel Guys"

(Matt Beadle 11-4-21)

Beadle said that tickets are available at Nazzitto's Wines & Liquors, the Chenango County Council of the Arts, at eventbrite.com, or through the "Billy Joel Guys" Facebook page.

A.M. NEWS THURSDAY 11-4-21

Delaware County Sheriff’s Deputies responded to the report of a Domestic Dispute, they observed 62-year old Timothy Lynch of Treadwell, leaving the scene of the incident in a motor vehicle. Deputies stopped the vehicle and they determined that Lynch’s license was revoked due to numerous prior convictions for driving under the influence of alcohol and drugs. Lynch was charged with Aggravated Unlicensed Operator of a Motor Vehicle, he was later released on traffic tickets and directed to appear at the Hamden Town Court at a later date to answer the charge.

Delaware County Public Health announced a COVID-19 Vaccination Clinic in Delhi of Johnson & Johnson & Moderna vaccines, with Pre-registration is required for Moderna Booster vaccines. The clinic will be held today at 97 Main Street in Delhi from 2:00 to 4:00 PM. The clinic is open to people over the age of 18. More information is available at 832-5200.

P.M. NEWS FRIDAY 9-24-21

Chenango County Public Health has witnessed an increase in COVID 19 cases lately, like its surrounding Counties have, Public Health Spokesman Isaiah Sutton commented:

(Isaiah Sutton 9-24-21)

Sutton said that they reported 140 active cases today, which includes 51 vaccinated cases, they are up to 344 people quarantined & 3 hospitalized, 2 of those are vaccinated.

Delaware County Sheriff's Office announced that a violation of post release conditions imposed by the Village of Walton Court has resulted in the arrest of a Sidney man.  Deputies & Sidney Police officers arrested 42-year-old Dana-John Britton of Sidney on the warrant for the parole violation after his release from the Delaware County Correctional Facility.  Britton was arraigned in the Village of Walton Court and was remanded to the Delaware County Correctional Facility on $10,000 cash bail or $20,000 bond.

The Delaware County Board of Elections is reminding county potential voters that October 8th is the last day to register in person and to postmark a registration form for the November 2nd General Election.  On this year's ballot is a Supreme Court Justice seat and many Town Offices, plus 5 State propositions and the Town of Colchester has one proposition on the Ballot. Early voting will be in their Delhi office from October 23rd through October 31st, more information is available at delcony.us or by calling 832-5321.

Chenango River Theatre will present only the 2nd staging of "The Craftsman ' a new play by author Bruce Graham that premiered in Philadelphia recently.  Theatre spokesman Bill Lelbach explains:

(Bill Lelbach 9-24-21)

Lelbach said that the Author Bruce Graham will be in attendance on opening night to see the show, which will run from October 8th through the 24th, on Thursday, Friday & Saturday nights at 7:30 & Sunday Matinees at 2:00 PM, Tickets can be purchased at chenangorivertheatre.org, or by calling the box office at 656-8499.

A.M. NEWS FRIDAY 9-24-21

The Sidney Chamber of Commerce is holding their "Halfway To The Hooley" event in Downtown Sidney tomorrow, Chamber President Teri Schunk explains:

(Teri Schunk 9-24-21)

Schunk said that other events will also be going on at the Sidney Cultural Community Center at Main & Bridge Street, in addition to the Division & Main Street activities Saturday.

The Chenango County Sheriff's Department announced that a Child Safety Car Seat Check Event will be held on Saturday, from 9:00 am to 12:00 pm, at the Visions Federal Credit Union on State Highway 12 in Norwich.  State Certified Child Safety Car Seat Technicians on hand to check for correct car seat installation, proper car seat fit for your child and the Chenango County Sheriff's Office will be replacing any car seats, at no cost to the family, that are found to be expired or do not properly fit your child.  More information is available at 337-1874.

P.M. NEWS THURSDAY 9-16-21

Governor Kathy Hochul today announced the suspension of the state hiring freeze through the end of the fiscal year, Following the release of the updated State Financial Plan projecting $2.1 billion in revenue above projections. Lifting the hiring freeze will enable state agencies to grow their work-forces after the number of workers in Executive Agencies declined by more than 10,000 between March 2020 and August 2021.

The Independent Redistricting Commission met Wednesday & released 2 proposed maps for Congressional Districts.  The newly created independent commission is tasked with drawing the lines for Congressional seats & state legislative offices.  The maps are being drawn based on the 2020 census; the meeting was recorded & can be viewed at nyirc.gov.

The State Department of Labor announced that the number of private sector jobs in the State increased over the month by 28,000, or 0.4%, to 7,519,400 in August. The increase was double the national average for August, the state unemployment rate dropped from 7.6% to 7.4% in August.

Delaware County Department of Public Works will be closing the Downsville Covered Bridge over the East Branch of the Delaware River in the Town of Colchester on Thursday, September 16th.  The structure will remain closed until the Corbett Bridge is reopened. Motorists should use alternate routes.

Binghamton University has reported 187 COVID-19 cases among on-campus students and staff over the past 2 weeks, that number is 15% of positive cases across the entire SUNY system.  SUNY officials reported a total of 1,259 cases during a 14-day period through Tuesday September 14th at its 64 campuses.  SUNY Binghamton reported 93% of their students are currently vaccinated; Students are required to get vaccinated by the end of the month or risk being unregistered from their courses.

The Friends of Rogers is hosting their 3rd Annual Electric Car Show on October 3rd, from 11:00 AM to 2:00 PM at the Rogers Environmental Education Center in Sherburne. The Friends of Rogers will also have the 2020 Tesla Model 3 on display, tickets for the raffle of the Tesla are available at the show or they are available online at friendsofrogers.org, the last day to purchase raffle tickets is October 15th at 6:00 PM.

A.M. NEWS THURSDAY 9-16-21

Delaware County Public Health reports that Vaccinations rates have stalled at 49.6 & 85% of the positive cases are unvaccinated, 17% of the positive cases are Pre-K to 12th grade students & employees.  The County reports 59 new cases in the previous 2 days, with 195 active cases, 4 hospitalized & 369 quarantined.

The US Small Business Administration will offer a free webinar training and tutorial on its enhanced the COVID Economic Injury Disaster Loan program to better serve and support small businesses still reeling from the pandemic, especially hard-hit sectors such as restaurants, gyms, and hotels. The SBA is taking new applications immediately from small businesses looking to take advantage of these new policy changes.  The webinar will take place this morning from 10:00 to 11:00 AM. To register, go to eventbrite.com.

Governor Kathy Hochul announced new efforts to increase COVID-19 vaccinations and prepare for booster shots upon FDA approval. The Governor has directed the State Department of Health to authorize basic emergency medical technicians to administer the COVID-19 vaccine, which immediately adds more than 2,000 fully trained vaccinators back into the State's program. An additional 50,000 basic EMTs will be able to receive the required training in order to help administer the COVID-19 vaccine and booster doses.  The Health Department is continuing to work with local health departments to reach out to medical practices, clinics, and other providers in their counties to encourage participation in the upcoming COVID 19 Vaccination booster program.

P.M. NEWS Thursday 8-12-21

New York Attorney General Letitia James and the U.S. Department of Labor announced landmark agreements with United Healthcare to resolve allegations that United unlawfully denied health care coverage for mental health and substance use disorder treatment for thousands of Americans. United will pay approximately $14.3 million in restitution to consumers affected by the policies, including $9 million to more than 20,000 New Yorkers with behavioral health conditions who received denials or reductions in reimbursement.

Catholic Charities Sidney office is taking pre-registration through tomorrow for their School Supplies & Backpack Program for the 2021-2022 school year. Households who have children enrolled in the Sidney Central School district and meet our income requirements may qualify for FREE school supplies and backpack, call 604-4071 for more information.

Downtown Norwich continues with the Thursday evening NBT Bank’s free Summer Concert Series. The weekly musical performances are presented by the Chenango Blues Association, to East Park, tonight, Johnson & Johnson 1-shot COVID vaccines are available from UHS Chenango Memorial Hospital. “We will have several doses of the Johnson & Johnson vaccine on-hand on a first come, first serve basis with no appointment necessary, set up opposite the stage near the gazebo; from 6:30 pm. to 8:30 pm., for those 18 & older.

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.

Delaware County Sheriff's Office announced that a Downsville man is facing a charge of criminal contempt following a report of a domestic dispute in the Town of Colchester. On Tuesday evening, Deputies responded in the Town of Colchester, 53 year-old Michael Colao, of Downsville violated the terms of an order of protection issued by Delaware County Family Court. Colao was charged with criminal contempt, he was released & will appear in the Colchester Town Court on a later date.

Delaware County Sheriff's Office arrested 21 year-old Shawn Zimmerman, of Gloversville, for endangering the welfare of a child and forcible touching, Zimmerman is accused of inappropriately touching a juvenile female in the Village of Stamford. Zimmerman was arraigned in the Town of Harpersfield Court where he was issued a temporary order of protection prohibiting him from having contact with the victim, he was released in his own recognizance pending a future appearance in that court.

Due to an increased spread of COVID-19, Chenango County is requiring mandatory face masks in all County Buildings and Offices at the start of business on Monday, August 16, 2021. All employees and members of the public (vaccinated and unvaccinated) fall under this requirement. It is also at this time recommended that Chenango County businesses, organizations and schools immediately implement a face mask requirement for their vaccinated and unvaccinated employees, patrons and students.

Otsego County is currently at a SUBSTANTIAL level of community transmission, and is on the verge of becoming HIGH level of community transmission. CDC & Otsego County Department of Health recommends everyone to wear a mask indoors in public if you are in an area of substantial or high transmission, to maximize protection from the Delta variant and prevent possibly spreading it to others. This week there have been several cases of individuals having a repeat COVID-19 infection. This occurs when someone is infected with COVID-19 and 90 or more days later tests positive again for COVID-19. These repeat infections are mostly occurring in unvaccinated individuals. This reinforces that immunity from natural infection diminishes after 90 days. It is important if you have had COVID-19 and are not vaccinated please consider getting vaccinated to prevent a reinfection. In Otsego County. there are 82 active cases, 19 new cases reported today, with 5 hospitalized, there have been 2614 total cases in 2021.

A.M. NEWS Thursday 8-12-21

Broome County Sheriff’s Office responded to a fatal motorcycle crash Tuesday night in West Corners at Glendale Drive & Campville Road at 11:44 pm. 42-year-old Jason Krissel of the Town of Union was ejected off of his motorcycle & was pronounced dead, Krissel applied the brakes aggressively at the intersection, after traveling at a high rate of speed. The investigation is continuing.

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.

Bassett Healthcare Network’s FoxCare Center in Oneonta remains closed today due to a water outage. Officials say all patients with scheduled appointments will continue to be contacted by their provider’s offices. Pharmacy patients are encouraged to call the Cooperstown clinic at 607-547-5127 for medication assistance.

P.M. NEWS MONDAY 6-28-21

Governor Cuomo announced that over 55,300 people were tested for COVID on Sunday, with only 290 positives, of .5% of all tested.  Hospitalization, ICU Patients & Patients on Ventilators continues to trend downward, there were 3 deaths attributed to the virus Sunday; one of those was in Chenango County.  Just fewer than 72% of New Yorkers have had at least 1 Vaccination, 65% have completed the series of shots.

The American Red Cross continues to experience a severe blood shortage, Donors of all blood types; especially type O are urged to make an appointment to ensure hospital shelves are stocked with blood products over the Fourth of July holiday and beyond.   Appointments can be made by using the Red Cross Blood Donor App, visiting RedCrossBlood.org, calling 1-800-RED CROSS.  Blood drives this week include Tuesday in Sidney at the Fire training Center on River Street from 12:00 to 5:00 PM, Tuesday in Oneonta from 1:00 to 6:00 PM at the Foothills Performing Arts Center on market Street & Wednesday in Morris from 12:00 to 5:00 PM at the Episcopal Church, at 162 Main Street.

The Dick's Sporting Goods Open starts today with a series of events leading up to the start of the Golf Tournament Friday at the En-Joie Golf Course in Endicott, organizer Dave Pessagno explains:

(Dave Pessagno 6-28-21)

Pessagno said that they had to plan for smaller attendance at the Concert & at other events throughout the week, as they were planning this event earlier in the year when the COVID 19 pandemic still had high infection rates; they hope to be back to normal attendance figures in 2022.

A New Jersey fugitive was arrested June 19th by Delaware County Sheriff's Deputies following an incident in the Town of Colchester.  Deputies responded to a report of a vehicle in the East Branch Delaware River near the Corbett bridge, the Investigation revealed that a New Jersey couple were attempting to drive their pickup across the river when it became partially submerged and disabled in deep water, also a passenger, 30 year-old Brian Olin, of New Jersey was wanted by authorities in Hunterdon County, New Jersey, on an outstanding warrant for failure to appear in court on a felony drug charge in September, 2019.  Olin was charged with being a fugitive from justice and was later arraigned and remanded to the Delaware County Correctional Facility without bail pending his extradition by New Jersey.

The National Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum announced that Josh Rawitch has been named President; he will begin serving in that capacity on September 9th.  Jeff Idelson will continue in his current role as Interim President until September 9th.  Rawitch was the Arizona Diamondbacks Senior Vice President of Content and Communications for the past 6 years; he previously served for 15 years as part of the Los Angeles Dodgers’ front office.

A.M. NEWS MONDAY 6-28-21

Attorney General Letitia James announced an agreement with Johnson & Johnson that will deliver up to $230 million to New York state, it resolves claims made by James for the company's role in helping to fuel the opioid epidemic and would allocate payments over 9 years, it also requires J&J to pay $30 million more in payments in the first year if the Governor signs into law new legislation that creates an opioid settlement fund, and other criteria are met.

Otsego County Sheriff's deputies arrested 36 year old Thomas Palmatier of South New Berlin, for Fleeing an Officer in Motor Vehicle, Aggravated Unlicensed Operation, Unregistered Vehicle & several other similar charges, following a recent traffic stop in the Town of Pittsfield.   Palmatier allegedly drove off from the traffic stop while emergency lights were activated; he was issued appearance ticket returnable to the Town of Pittsfield Court at a later date.

Otsego County Sheriff Deputies arrested 48 year old Brett Brooks of New Berlin after providing Deputy’s with false information of his identity in the Town of Pittsfield on June 13th.  Brooks was a passenger in a vehicle that had been stopped; he had an active bench warrant issued out of Chenango County & gave a false name to law enforcement. Brooks was issued an appearance ticket returnable to the Town of Pittsfield Court & was turned over to the custody of Chenango County Sheriff Office for the warrant.

The State Board on Electric Generation Siting and the Environment will meet on Thursday at 10:30 AM in Albany, the meeting will be available for public viewing at dps.ny.gov, The Siting Board agenda includes the Application of High Bridge Wind, LLC for a Certificate of Environmental Compatibility and Public Need to Construct a Wind Powered Electric Generating Facility in the Town of Guilford.

P.M. NEWS WEDNESDAY 6-23-21

The trial of Dylan Robinson was turned over to the Jury in Otsego County Court today and they have determined that Robinson is guilty of 2nd degree murder, 1st degree burglary, he was found not guilty on the arson charge.   Robinson was accused of acting with 5 others in killing his father, Kenneth Robinson after robbing him, and then setting the father's house in Worcester on fire in October 2019.

The investigation into an Otsego County Correctional facility suicide of an inmate is ongoing.  The inmate was found unresponsive in his cell on Saturday, corrections officers used a defibrillator and performed CPR until emergency responders arrived, and the inmate was taken to Bassett Hospital & was pronounced dead, the State Commission of Correction and the State Attorney General’s Office are reviewing the death.

State Police arrested 40 year old Johnny Walker of Rochester on June 13th, for Aggravated Unlicensed Operation of a motor vehicle.  Troopers were dispatched following a report of a vehicle that struck a guide rail, a traffic sign, a restaurant sign, near the Farmhouse Restaurant on State Highway 7 in the Town of Oneonta.  Police were told that the vehicle left the scene, eyewitnesses provided a description & the Troopers Walker & passengers inside a local supermarket, and troopers said that Walker declined medical attention, but a child passenger was taken to Fox Hospital as a precaution.  Walker's license has been suspended 27 times.

State Police were dispatched to investigate the theft of a golf cart on June 12 from a Golf course in the Town of Middletown.  Troopers located the golf cart with three people in it while on State Highway 30 and initiated a traffic stop.  Troopers said that the driver of the golf cart, 34 year old Davis McPartland of Wappingers Falls, was charged with DWI & unauthorized use of a motor vehicle, 2 passengers were also arrested, 37 year old Matthew Davis of Wappingers Falls and 34 year old Brian Davis of Beacon were charged with Unauthorized Use of a Vehicle & all 3 face court action on July 13th in Middletown Court.

The New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation and the DEC are launching a new loyalty program starting with the 9-month online reservation period for the 2022 camping season. The 2 offices manage 120 campgrounds with 15,000 campsites statewide, Camping reservations can be made online at newyorkstateparks.reserveamerica.com or by calling 1-800-456-CAMP.

Governor Cuomo announced today that New York will end the COVID-19 state of emergency tomorrow.  The Governor said that the emergency part of the COVID 19 pandemic is over, it ends the restrictions that were put in place in the early days of the pandemic last year, as infection rates from COVID testing have plummeted to about 1.3 of 1%, and 71% of adult New Yorkers have received at least 1 vaccine against the virus & over 63% have completed their full series of Vaccines.

U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand is urging families to take all necessary steps to secure the Child Tax Credit in the American Rescue Plan:

(Gillibrand 6-23-21)

Approximately 3.5 Million New York households are expected to receive benefits without need for further action; more information is available at childtaxcredit.gov.

A.M. NEWS WEDNESDAY 6-23-21

The Local Primary elections results are in:

The Republican primaries in Chenango County: The County Clerk Primary winner is Brian Wessels, the towns of Columbus Supervisor Primary winner is Diane Scalzo, Guilford Town Council Primary winners are Mathew Retz & Thomas Ives, the McDonough Town Clerk Primary winner is Shirley Cook, the Smithville Highway Superintendent Primary winner is Vincent Witkowski, the Town of Norwich Highway Superintendent Primary winner is Barry Christopherson, the City of Norwich Ward 4 Alderman Primary winner is William Loomis.

In the Delaware County Republican primaries: the Colchester Town Council Primary winners are Daniel Pinner & Julie Markert, the Walton Highway Superintendent Primary winner is Jeffrey Offnick.

In the Republican Primaries in Otsego County, the Hartwick Town Supervisor Primary winner is Bryan LoRusso, the 2 Town Council winners are Jonathon Horth & Cindy Carr, the Highway Superintendent winner is Frederick Koffer. The Milford Town Justice Primary Winners were Matthew Kane & Deborah McMullen, The Oneonta Supervisor Primary Winner is Randal Mower, The Otego Town Clerk Primary winner is Terry Horan, the Unadilla Town Clerk Republican Primary Winner is Terry Yoder; there is a tie in the Town Council Republican Primary.  The only Local Democratic Primary was for The County Representative position in District 3, the winner is Caitlin Ogden.

P.M. NEWS MONDAY 6-21-21

Primary elections will be held tomorrow with polls open from 6:00 AM to 9:00 PM. Republican primaries will be held in CHENANGO COUNTY for County Clerk, as well as other positions in the Towns of Columbus, Guilford, McDonough & Smithville plus the Town & City of Norwich. In DELAWARE COUNTY, there are Republican primaries for position in the Towns of Colchester & Walton. There are republican Primaries in Otsego County in the towns of Hartwick, Laurens, Maryland, Milford, Oneonta, Otego & Unadilla; there is a Democratic Primary in for OTSEGO COUNTY representative in District 3 covering Laurens & Otego.

Governor Cuomo signed legislation that will require hospitals to form committees composed of registered nurses, licensed practical nurses, ancillary staff members providing direct patient care, and hospital administrators to form the staffing plans, the Governor also signed another bill Friday that will require minimum levels of staffing at nursing homes.

Chenango County Public Health continues to see a downturn in their COVID 19 numbers. Today’s Numbers, there are 6 Active Cases, 26 Quarantines & 1 Hospitalized from the virus. Chenango County has had a Total of 3504 Confirmed Cases with 77 deaths & 3324 Recoveries.

Delaware County Sheriff's Deputies patrolling State Highway 28 in the Town of Delhi last Thursday, stopped an erratic vehicle & charged 67 year-old Joan McIntosh, of Bovina for failure to keep right and aggravated unlicensed operation of a motor vehicle, after a routine check revealed that McIntosh’ driving privileges were suspended for failure to pay taxes. McIntosh was released and directed to appear in the Delhi Town Court on a later date to answer those charges.

The National Baseball Hall of Fame’s September 8th Induction Ceremony will return to its standard seating format, following last Tuesday’s announcement by New York Governor Andrew Cuomo that lifted significant COVID-19 restrictions. Tickets will not be required for the event’s free lawn seating area. The Induction Ceremony, scheduled for 1:30 p.m. on Wednesday, Sept. 8, on the grounds of Cooperstown’s Clark Sports Center, will celebrate the inductions of Class of 2020 members Derek Jeter, Marvin Miller, Ted Simmons and Larry Walker. For more information, visit baseballhall.org.

The Village of Unadilla Department of Public Works is working on a potential water main break on Clifton Street. The area may experience low pressure and eventually water will be shut off in that area. Clifton Street will also be shut down from the Community House Parking lot to Sperry Street while the work is being performed.

A.M. NEWS MONDAY 6-21-21

Otsego County Sheriff's Office arrested 30 year old James Stilson of Oneonta following a burglary investigation in the Town of Unadilla. Stilson was arrested following a burglary in progress complaint at 188 Main Street in Unadilla, he was charged with possession of a hypodermic instrument & was issued Appearance Ticket returnable to Town of Unadilla Court today at 4:00pm.

State Police announced that 14 year old Angelia Sturtevant of Roseboom was located Saturday morning, she was found in good health & was returned to her family. State Police also reported that 12 year old Tamel Thompson, who was reported missing over the weekend in Broome County, was also located, and has returned to his family.

Village of Delhi Police Department arrested 28-year-old Andrew Kreger for Reckless Driving, Endangering the Welfare of a Child and Improper Passing. Kreger was released on appearance tickets returnable to the Delhi Town Court at a later date.

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 statewide single-day COVID-19 positivity rate dropped to 0.44% Wednesday, and the 7-day rolling average dropped to 0.60%, & hospitalizations from COVID statewide fell below 1,000 to 970 for the first time since October 21st of last year. There were 245 ICU patients with 143 on ventilators Wednesday, over 128,000 tests were administered with 565 positive tests, and there were 10 COVID attributed deaths. The State Health Department reported that 46.3% of New Yorkers have completed their full Vaccine series.

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.

The Chenango County Health Department is hosting a FREE Janssen Vaccine Clinic at the Norwich Firehouse During the Chicken Barbecue on Saturday June 12th, from 1:00 to 3:00 pm. NO APPOINTMENT IS NEEDED, The Clinic is first come first serve, 100 doses are available. Participants must be 18 years or older for this type of vaccine & they will need to complete a health screening form before the shot. More information is available at 337-1660.

P.M. NEWS Wednesday 3-24-21

State Police arrested 33 year old Savannaha Odum of New Lisbon for the felonies Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance with Intent to Sell and Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance, after a trooper was dispatched to a report of a coin purse that was found in the parking lot of the Speedway gas station in Unadilla, with illegal drugs, the trooper was able to identify the owner & the type of vehicle that she was driving. Odum was located in the town of Unadilla, she was processed and released on appearance tickets to the town of Unadilla court on April 12th.

This year, The Firemen's Association of the State of New York RecruitNY Weekend will be on April 24th & 25th will be unlike any before. In response to COVID-19, many firehouses across New York State are choosing to organize a virtual open house or conduct other digital outreach in an effort to attract new volunteers. Some firehouses may still elect to open their doors to the public. Individuals looking to find out if their fire department is participating in RecruitNY, visit?recruitny.org/participation-area. For more information, contact your local volunteer fire department via a non-emergency phone number or its website.

State Police are investigating an attempted bank robbery in Cherry Valley Monday at around 2:00 PM at the NBT Bank at 16 Main Street in Cherry Valley. The suspect is described as a white male, 30 to 40 years of age and is approximately 5’5” – 5’7” in height. He was last seen walking on Lancaster Street in Cherry Valley. There was a white sedan in the area that may or may not have been involved. Anyone with information is asked to contact State Police at 432-3211.

A.M. NEWS WEDNESDAY 3-24-21

Delaware County Public Health will be conducting a first dose Moderna COVID-19 vaccination clinic on Thursday at 97 Main Street Delhi, from 8: 00 AM to 5:00 PM. This vaccination clinic is open to all New York state residents or people who work in New York State, who qualify by being 50+ years of age, An eligible worker 18+ years of age, Those with qualifying medical conditions 18+ years of age, Registration is mandatory, at apps2.health.ny.gov.

The Sidney Police Reform and Reinvention Collaborative Committee will hold their final Zoom meeting tonight at 6:00 PM, and is open to the public. The link to the Zoom meeting is available at villageofsidney.org; the plan will be submitted to the state for approval before the April 1st deadline

Governor Cuomo announced a record $52.5 million is now available through the Farmland Protection Implementation Grant program to help farmers across New York protect valuable and at-risk farmland. This is the highest level of funding being offered in the program's 25-year history. In addition, for the first time, the program will distribute funds to each of the state's 10 economic development regions, with $5 million being allocated to each region. More information is available at grantsgateway.ny.gov.

Delaware County Sheriff's Office arrested 31 year old Cameron Hart of Middletown earlier this month. Sheriff’s Deputies observed a vehicle traveling at an excessive speed on March 5th in the town of Colchester, Deputies stopped the vehicle, a routine DMV inquiry revealed that Hart’s driving privileges were suspended. Hart was charged with aggravated unlicensed operation & speeding at 76 miles an hour in a 55 zone. Hart was released and directed to appear in the Town of Colchester Court on a later date to answer the charges.

New York State Electric & Gas announced that crews recently started proactive tree trimming work in the towns of Chenango and Maine in Broome County to protect the electrical system from hazards caused by fallen branches and vegetation overgrowth. The trimming activity will extend 67.23 miles along Airport Drive, Bringham Road and Commercial Drive in the Town of Maine. In the Town of Chenango, crews will be working along Castle Creek Road, Dunham Hill Road, Kolb Road and W. Chenango Road. Trimming work is expected to be completed by April 1st.