WCDO Radio News

A.M. NEWS WEDNESDAY 12-31-25

Governor Kathy Hochul has announced the state’s minimum wage is set to go up again on January 1, 2026, marking the third straight year of increases. The minimum wage will rise to $17.00 per hour in New York City, Westchester, and Long Island, while the rest of the state will see an increase to $16.00 per hour. This adjustment of $0.50 per hour is part of a planned series of increases, which will then be indexed to inflation starting in 2027.

The Delaware County Sheriff’s Office has been recently made aware of a scam operating in which unknown individuals are contacting families of incarcerated individuals purporting to be employees of the Delaware County Sheriff’s Office/Corrections Division requesting the relatives provide financial information to the caller to bail out the incarcerated individual. The Delaware County Sheriff's Office will never personally contact families of incarcerated individuals requesting bail, Incarcerated Individuals are provided with that opportunity. If you receive a call, DO NOT provide any information and hang up. If you have any further questions, call the Corrections Division at (607)832-5555 ext. 5863

P.M. NEWS WEDNESDAY 9-24-25

The State DEC announced a drought warning was issued in 12 counties in the Adirondack and Southern Tier regions and a drought watch was expanded to include 6 counties in the Susquehanna region. The counties added to the drought watch today are Broome, Chenango, Cortland, Otsego, Madison, and Tioga. A drought watch or warning is now in effect for the entire state except for New York City and Westchester County. more information is available at dec.ny.gov.

Delaware County Sheriff's Office announced the arrest of 43 year old Dylan Bassani of East Meredith for 2 counts of Menacing following an investigation into a complaint filed by two NYSEG Utility workers. On September 17th, NYSEG Utility workers were attempting to make electrical repairs on Turnpike Road in the Town of Meredith, they reported that they were confronted by Bassani, who is accused of displaying a shotgun in attempt to intimidate the workers. On September 19th, Deputies applied for and were granted an Extreme Risk Protection Order through Delaware County Supreme Court, the next day, Bassani was located and arrested and the firearm was recovered. Bassani was processed & was released on an appearance ticket for the Town of Meredith Court at a later date.

Delaware County Sheriff's Deputies arrested 39 year old Ashley O'Malley of Bovina, following an investigation into a motor vehicle accident on September 18th, in Bovina Center. Deputies found that the vehicle had gone off the side of the road and came to rest overturned on a resident’s property. O'Malley appeared to be in an intoxicated state, she was charged with Aggravated Driving While Intoxicated, with a BAC of 0.18% or more, Moving from Lane Unsafely and Speed not Reasonable and Prudent, O'Malley was released on appearance tickets to the Bovina Town Court at a later date.

Delaware County Office for the Aging will present " Name that Scam" an interactive presentation from the Elder Abuse Center at Lifespan of Greater Rochester. The event will be held on Thursday at 10:00 AM at the Delaware County Sheriff's Department at 280 Phoebe Lane, Delhi,

Due to the weather on Tuesday, Delaware County Department of Public Works announced that they will be closing County Route 18 in the Village and Town of Delhi to through traffic today from 7:00 am. until 3:30 pm. today and also on Monday to replace a cross pipe. The plans were to start the project Tuesday & complete it today, DPW officials said that the road will be open by the end of each work day.

Chenango County Sheriff's Office arrested 40 year old Eric Nelson of Afton for Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance in the Town of North Norwich. Nelson was arrested after Deputies initiated a traffic stop, Nelson was a passenger in the vehicle, he was found to be in possession of Methamphetamine. Nelson was transported to the Chenango County Sheriff's Office for processing & was released on an appearance ticket and is to appear in Court at a later date.

The Delaware County Chamber of Commerce announced that they are offering a Defensive Driving Course in Delhi next week. Drivers are able to reduce the cost of their auto insurance coverage by taking the Course offered at Chamber's Business Center in Delhi on Tuesday, January 7 from 10:00 am to 4:00 pm. Certificates of completion will be issued to each participant’s home and New York State Department of Motor Vehicles will be notified of attendance. Students are responsible to notify their insurance carriers. The course fee is $35 and attendance is limited to 20 people. Advance registration is required by calling 607-538-9632.

Hill City Celebrations is hosting their annual New Year's Eve event today from 5:00 to 8:30 PM at the Foothills Performing Arts Center on Market Street in Oneonta. A variety of entertainment is scheduled & families can still drive through Neahwa Park & see the lights on display, more information is available at the Hill City Celebration's Facebook page for this & other future events.

A.M. NEWS TUESDAY 12-31-24

Starting January 1st, the minimum wage will go up 50 cents, followed by another 50-cent increase starting January 1, 2026. The minimum wage will be set at $17 in New York City, Long Island, and Westchester County and the rest of the state will be set at $16. More information about minimum wage can be found on the New York State Department of Labor’s website at dol.ny.gov/minimum-wage.

Otsego County Sheriff's Office arrested 53 year old Donald Lane of Oneonta for Sex Offender Failure to Update Change of Address, Failure to Provide Updated Photograph and Failure to Complete Annual Verification. Lane was located in the City of Oneonta by the Oneonta Police Department and taken in to custody on an active warrant issued by the Town of Middlefield Court, he was turned over to deputies who processed him and lodged him in the Otsego County Correctional Facility to await Centralized Arraignment.

Otsego County Sheriff's Office arrested 33 year old Nicole Conklin of Otego for 3rd degree Assault following an investigation into a reported physical domestic dispute in the Village of Schenevus. Conklin caused physical injury to another party, she was later located and taken into custody and was then turned over to the Otsego County Correctional Facility to await arraignment, an order of protection was issued to protect the victim.

P.M. NEWS MONDAY 12-9-24

Otsego County Sheriff's Office arrested 43 year old John Crotts of Oneonta following a motor vehicle accident last week. Crotts was charged with Driving while intoxicated, Driving while ability impaired by drugs, Criminal possession of a controlled substance & Miscellaneous Traffic Citations, The investigation revealed that Crotts had been operating a motor vehicle while impaired by drugs he was arrested and later released after the issuance of appearance tickets for Town of Oneonta court at a later date.

Starting January 1st, the minimum wage will go up 50 cents, followed by another 50-cent increase starting January 1, 2026. The minimum wage will be set at $17 in New York City, Long Island, and Westchester County and the rest of the state will be set at $16. More information about minimum wage can be found on the New York State Department of Labor’s website at dol.ny.gov/minimum-wage.

30 year old Joshua Mazyck of Endicott, pleaded guilty to Attempted Criminal Possession of a Weapon in the Second Degree and will serve 6 years in New York State Prison followed by 5 years post release supervision as a second felony in Broome County Court. On June 5, after a traffic stop and subsequent investigation by State Police, Mazyck was found to be in possession of fentanyl, packaging materials, a loaded handgun, cutting agents, and a digital scale.

New York Farm Bureau attracted a record-breaking 400-plus attendees and nearly 70 sponsors to its State Annual Convention in Verona last week. Judi Whittaker was a winner of the Distinguished Service to Agriculture Awards, she is a third-generation owner of Whittaker Farms in Broome County, The James Quinn Award was presented to Barb Hanselman of Delaware County, the New York Farm Bureau’s state legislative priorities will be released in January.

A.M. NEWS Monday 12-9-24

State Police issued a total of 24,191 tickets statewide during this year’s special Thanksgiving holiday traffic enforcement period, from Saturday, November 23, through Sunday, December 1st. Troopers arrested 251 people for DWI and investigated 1,259 crashes, including three fatal crashes. In the Southern Tier there were 1146 total tickets issued.

Otsego County Sheriffs arrested 47-year-old Timothy Stone of Cooperstown Friday, based on a report of physical child abuse at a residence in the Town of Middlefield. Further investigation revealed that Stone was involved in a domestic dispute with a pregnant juvenile, allegedly placing the juvenile in a choke-hold before throwing the victim on the floor, causing unknown injuries. Stone was located by Oneida County Sheriffs and taken into custody without further incident. Stone was charged with 3rd-degree Assault, Criminal Obstruction of Breathing, Endangering the Welfare of a Child, an order of protection has been requested on behalf of the victim.

State Police were dispatched Thursday by the Delaware County 911 Center to an assault on County Route 17 in the town of Hancock. 40 year old Nelson Lopez of Roscoe, violated an order of protection and caused physical injury to Julianna Stowers-Lopez of Roscoe, who also caused serious injury to Lopez by stabbing him in the upper body. Both suffered non-life-threatening injuries and were transported by separate ambulances to Wilson Medical Center. Both were released from the hospital Friday, Lopez was charged Criminal Contempt & 2nd degree Assault, Stowers-Lopez was charged with 1st degree Assault, Both were transported to the Delaware County Correctional Facility for Centralized Arraignment.

27 year old Martha Clemons of Oxford was arrested by the Chenango County Sheriff’s Office for Burglary, Grand Larceny, Criminal Mischief, Harassment and Resisting Arrest. Deputies responded to a domestic dispute, Clemens is accused of unlawfully and forcefully entering a residence and stole the victim’s dog, struck the victim, refused to comply with Deputies orders to come out of the residence. An arrest warrant was then signed, And Clemens was taken into custody, & was arraigned in the Town of Oxford Court and released on her own recognizance. Clemens is to appear in the Town of Oxford Court at a later date.

State Health Department Officials confirmed that a Long Island man in his 50's is the 1st confirmed case of the West Nile Virus in New York State this summer, the unidentified man was hospitalized briefly but has recovered and was released. 2 more cases were confirmed this week in Westchester County Health Department, West Nile is spread by mosquitoes, Symptoms of West Nile include fever, headache, muscle pain, nausea, vomiting, rash, joint pain, and minor bleeding. New York State had the most cases of the West Nile Virus in the nation is recently as 2022.

A.M. NEWS WEDNESDAY 8-21-24

Governor Kathy Hochul today directed the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation to issue an emergency declaration to help communities in 18 counties rebuild critical infrastructure after severe storms and flash flooding that took place August 9-10, 2024. The declaration includes Broome, Chenango, & Delaware Counties.

Broome County Sheriff’s #1 Most Wanted fugitive was arrested last night following a traffic stop in Philadelphia. 27 year old Jeremy Lewis of Endicott, was wanted for possession of a handgun that was discovered during a domestic disturbance in Endicott on October 12, 2023. Lewis fled the area and law enforcement had initially been unable to locate him. The Broome County Sheriff’s Warrants Division had tracked Lewis to the Philadelphia area and alerted the local U.S. Marshal’s Regional Fugitive Task Force, Lewis was located during a routine traffic stop on Monday evening, Lewis will remain in custody in Philadelphia until he is extradited back to Broome County for arraignment.

P.M. NEWS MONDAY 1-22-24

Broome County Sheriff Fred Akshar announced a new program today to combat domestic violence with assistance from the Crime Victims Assistance Center and the Family Violence Prevention Council:

(Sheriff Akshar 1-22-24)

Family Violence Prevention Council Coordinator Kristin Beylo commented that the program is patterned after one in Westchester County, and what the plans are for the program going forward:

(Kristin Beylo 1-22-24)

The program utilizes evidence-based screenings to help law enforcement better assess potential lethality by identifying common red flags, patterns and responses associated with domestic homicides.

Delaware County Sheriff's Office arrested 62 year old Bert Mullineaux of Walton on January 9th. Deputies were dispatched to a 1 car motor vehicle accident on Bobs Brook Road in the Town of Tompkins, Deputies determined that Mullineaux's driving privileges are revoked for DWI since 2006, he was charged with aggravated unlicensed operation of a motor vehicle, Moving from a lane Unsafely, and Speed not reasonable and Prudent, he will appear in Tompkins Town Court at a later date to answer those charges.

Delaware County Sheriff's Office arrested 31 year old Natalie Petruch of Andes following an investigation of an accident on January 18th on Arbuckle Hollow Road in Delhi. Petruch was charged with Operating a Motor Vehicle while intoxicated, moving from a lane unsafely, operating a vehicle with a BAC above .08% , she was released on appearance tickets for Town of Delhi Court at a later date.

A.M. NEWS MONDAY 1-22-24

Chenango County Sheriff’s Office announced the arrest of 22 year old Kaleb Weinmuller of Morris, for Rape, Criminal Sexual Act and Endangering the Welfare of a Child. The Chenango County Sheriff’s Office investigated a sexual abuse complaint in the Village of Oxford, where it was discovered that Weinmuller was 21 years old & performed sexual acts with a minor. Weinmuller was arrested and arraigned in the Village of Oxford Court, he was remanded on $25,000 cash bail & was transported back to Broome County Correctional Facility where he is currently being held on other charges.

An Otsego County ambulance was at the scene of a motor vehicle accident on I-88 Sunday in Schenevus when the ambulance was struck by a passing vehicle. The ambulance was parked on the shoulder of the roadway with its Emergency lighting activated. The crew was treating a patient from a previous accident in the rear of the ambulance when they were struck. Both providers were transported to an area hospital with non-life threatening injuries.

Delaware County Sheriff's Office arrested 28 year old Frank Mazepa of Morris on 2 counts of Criminal Possession of a controlled substance. On January 8, Deputies assisted the SUNY Delhi Police Department on a traffic stop in the Village of Delhi, it was determined that the passenger in the vehicle was in possession of a quantity of crack cocaine and heroin. Mazepa was released on appearance tickets for the Town of Delhi court at a later date.

The Broome County district Attorney's Office announced that on January 12th, in Broome County Court, just prior to trial, Craig Brigham of the Town of Maine, pleaded guilty to felony Attempted Robbery. On August 1st, 2022, Brigham entered the Vestal Walmart selected a backpack and miscellaneous merchandise. When an employee attempted to retrieve the stolen merchandise, Brigham pulled out a small aerosol can and threatened to pepper spray the employee. Brigham will be sentenced in Broome County Court on April 12th to 1.5 to 3 years at a state prison.

P.M. NEWS TUESDAY 1-2-24

On December 28, the Chenango County Sheriff’s Office patrol observed a sedan traveling in Sherburne committing several vehicle and traffic law violations. During the traffic stop, officers located a bong used to smoke methamphetamine, a further search located methamphetamine, packaging material, scales, a large sum of money & a loaded stolen handgun. 41 year old Daniel Knochenmus of Sherburne & 50 year old Bonnie Ramsey of Sherburne were charged with several counts of Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance, Criminal Possession of a weapon, Criminal Possession of Stolen Property & Criminal Use of Drugs Paraphernalia, they were remanded to the Chenango County Correctional Facility without bail pending an appearance in Chenango County Court.

Commerce Chenango's 7th annual Career Expo will be held at the SUNY Morrisville’s Norwich campus on Wednesday, January 17th, from 1:00 pm. To 4:00 pm. More information is available at 607-334-1429. Business exhibitors should register no later than January 11th.

A.M. NEWS TUESDAY 1-2-24

A 17 year old from North Carolina was taken into custody after the Southern Tier SWAT Team executed a search warrant in the Town of Union. On Friday, Broome County Sheriff’s Office acted on information gathered by the US Marshal’s to apprehend a 17-year-old male, who is accused of killing 2 people in Mount Holly, North Carolina last month. The fugitive was at 122 Pierce Avenue, he was apprehended after Deputies executed a search warrant & he was taken into custody without incident.

The Broome County Sheriff's Office arrested 3 men on December 22nd, in Kirkwood, after Deputies responded to a hit-and-run motor vehicle accident at a trailer park, they arrived to a dispute involving over a dozen individuals. 21 year old Guy Conklin of Binghamton is accused of threatening to shoot several individuals, driving into a parked car, leaving the scene and returning with 3 passengers in his vehicle. 19 year old Keith Palmer of Binghamton, was in possession of an illegal “Ghost Gun” & controlled substances. 27 year old Christopher Cady of Binghamton, was found to possess drug paraphernalia and a controlled substance, he gave police a false name, he was wanted on a warrant out of Pennsylvania on drug charges. Conklin, Palmer and Cady were arrested on a variety of charges, Conklin & Palmer were released on appearance tickets, Cady was held for extradition by the Monroe County Pennsylvania Sheriff’s Office.

5 New Laws went into effect yesterday in New York State, 1 new law states that Lifeguards can be 15 years old if they are directly supervised, another is that Non-public schools in New York will have to provide free menstrual products for female students, The minimum wage in will increase to $15 per hour outside of New York City, Long Island & Westchester Counties, also, the minimum age to operate an ATV in New York will go from 10 to 14 & Colleges will be required to post campus crime statistics on their websites and to investigate hate crimes. The institutions will also be responsible for informing students about how they plan to prevent hate crimes.

Attorney General Letitia James and State Department of Taxation and Finance Acting Commissioner Amanda Hiller announced the sentencing of 61 year old Carl Carro of Delaware County and 74 year old James Doyle of Westchester County, for operating a Ponzi scheme that defrauded investors in New York and throughout the nation of more than $1 million. Carro pled guilty last October to Money Laundering, Securities Fraud, Scheming to Defraud and Repeated Failure to File Personal Income Tax Returns. Doyle pled guilty to Money Laundering and Scheme to Defraud. Carro was sentenced to 4 to 8 years in prison and Doyle was sentenced to five years' probation, they will pay a total of more than $1 million in judgments to the victims of their scheme. Carro and Doyle solicited investments in their companies, Endeavor Management Solutions and Endeavor Consultancy, from 2012 to December 2020. An audit revealed that investor funds were used for personal expenses.

Village of Sidney announced that the water service disruption scheduled for Monday has been postponed until Tuesday, due to Mondays holiday. Starting around 9:00 AM Tuesday, water system customers north of the Susquehanna River along Route 8 and the surrounding areas will experience water service disruptions, until about 4:00 PM. This service disruption is associated with the Village of Sidney’s work to install new water mains under the Unadilla and Susquehanna Rivers.

A.M. NEWS THURSDAY 1-12-23

The Broome County Sheriff’s Office is currently looking for Kiana Montanez, on an outstanding warrant and asking the residents of Broome County for assistance. Montanez is wanted for Burglary, Bail Jumping, Resisting Arrest and Obstructing Governmental Justice. She is described as 5’5?, 140 pounds, anyone with information is asked to contact the Broome County Sheriff’s Office at gobroomecounty.com/sheriff/warrants or by calling the Broome County Sheriff’s Office tip line at (607) 778-1196.

The Delaware County Tourism Advisory Board is now accepting applications for funding under the 2023 Local Community Tourism Grant program. This program will provide funding assistance to eligible applicants for projects that seek to attract visitors to Delaware County and enhance the overall tourism industry. For a copy of the program guidelines and application, contact the Delaware County Department of Economic Development at 607-832-5123. Applications are due by February 28th.

P.M. NEWS FRIDAY 12-30-22

State Police & the State Attorney General’s Office are investigating a fatal motor vehicle crash in Cortland County Wednesday night, where a Cortland County Sheriff’s Deputy observed an SUV driving through a red traffic light in the Town of Cortlandville. The Deputy attempted to initiate a traffic stop, the SUV failed to comply, both the SUV and the patrol vehicle crashed, after failing to negotiate a turn onto the Interstate 81 on-ramp in Homer. A rear seat passenger in the SUV, 16-year-old, Salena Wallner was pronounced dead at the scene. The driver of the SUV, a 15-year-old female, a 16-year-old female passenger and a 15-year-old female passenger were transported to Upstate Medical Center in Syracuse with serious injuries. The Sheriff’s Deputy sustained non-life-threatening injuries and was transported to a local hospital for treatment. The SUV had been reported stolen from the William George Agency for Children’s Services in Tompkins County shortly before the accident.

Over $22 million in grant funding was awarded to 76 communities across the state through Round 12 of the Regional Economic Development Council Initiative, with an emphasis on Waterfront Revitalization, Brownfield remediation & Sustainable Community Planning and Zoning. The Village of Sidney will receive $700,000 dollars for their GreenPlain Community Park Plan, Sidney Village Mayor Andy Matviak comments:

(Andy Matviak 12-30-22)

Plans call for the construction of recreational amenities including a green soccer complex and event lawn, adjacent to the Susquehanna River. Broome County will receive funds for improvements at Grippen Park, The Ross Park Trail & the Roberson Museum.

Elected officials will be sworn in for a new term on Sunday, January 1st. Governor Hochul will be sworn in at 2:00 PM Sunday at the Empire State Plaza in Albany, Sheriff-elect Fred Akshar and the Broome County Legislature will be joined by hundreds of family and friends for a special Joint Swearing-in Ceremony at the DoubleTree in Binghamton on Sunday at 1:00 PM. Akshar passed on running for re-election to the State Senate, in order to return to Law Enforcement.

A.M. NEWS FRIDAY 12-30-22

The new Minimum wage is set to go into effect on Saturday, Workers outside of New York City, Long Island, and Westchester County will see the minimum wage go from $13.20 to $14.20 an hour.

State Police at Troop C conducted an Underage Drinking Initiative in Otsego County on December 21st. 14 businesses were found to be in compliance, in Worcester, Schenevus & Oneonta. During the Underage Drinking Initiative, retail establishments are checked using a trooper in plain clothes and one or several underage operative(s) who cannot lie about their age or give a fake date of birth (if asked). When asked for ID, they must show their real ID. All New York State driver’s licenses are horizontal if the license holder is over the age of 21; if the license holder is under the age of 21, they are vertical.

Delaware County Sheriff Deputies were dispatched to a report of an animal abuse in the Town of Hamden last week. The investigation revealed that the owner of the animals was 33-year-old Henry Baird of Hamden, Deputies arrested Baird for Over-driving, torturing and injuring animals; failure to provide proper sustenance, a search warrant was executed, which resulted in the seizure of Chickens, 2 Pigs, 2 Emu’s, a goat, and a Peacock, which were later secured by the Delaware Valley Humane Society. Baird was later released on an appearance ticket and is scheduled to appear at the Town of Hamden Court at a later date to answer the charge.

A.M. NEWS TUESDAY 12-27-22

The State University of New York announced that the number of students applying to their school increased from roughly 97,000 applicants last year to over 204,000 from last year. SUNY implemented a new application system where Students were able to apply to up to 5 schools for free, they also launched an out-of-state tuition match program and is teaming up several other colleges in order to increase the interest in the SUNY system.

Governor Kathy Hochul announced that she has chosen Hector LaSalle of Westchester County, to be the new Chief Judge of the State's Highest Court, the Court of Appeals. If approved, LaSalle would replace Judge Janet DiFiore, who retired after serving as the chief judge since 2016.

A new law goes into effect this weekend regarding Polling places. The new law allows registered voters to cast their ballot at the wrong polling place as long as they are in the correct county and State Assembly district. The law follows voter confusion over last year's changes to the district's around the state, which will change again in 2024 following legal challenges.

P.M. NEWS TUESDAY 8-16-22

Nicholas & Terry DeCutler were arraigned in Otsego County Court Monday on 2nd degree Murder charges. The Brothers are accused of fatally stabbing 24 year old Kaleb O'Neill in an alleyway at Dietz Street in Oneonta on Memorial Day. The DeCutler's were being held on Bail in the Otsego County Jail pending a court appearance on September 19th.

Delaware County Sheriff's deputies arrested Melanie Moore of New Jersey for failing to stop at a stop sign on Townsend Street in Walton. Moore's driving privileges had been suspended, she was charged with Failing to Stop at a Stop Sign and Aggravated Unlicensed Operator of a Motor Vehicle, she faces court action at a later date.

The Delaware County Fair had a successful 1st day Monday at the Fairgrounds in Walton, Spokesman Jason Craig said that the rides on the midway are ready to go today:

(Jason Craig 8-16-22)

The Delaware County Fair runs through Saturday, more information is available at delawarecountyfair.org.

The State DEC has expanded its Drought Watch to about 2/3rds of the state's land, as dry weather conditions continue. The watch now includes all of the counties south of the Mohawk River Valley, & excludes those in the Adirondacks, Eastern Great Lakes, Westchester County & New York City. DEC Officials are encouraging residents in affected counties, particularly those dependent on private groundwater wells, to conserve water whenever possible during the coming weeks. No mandatory restrictions are in place under a state drought watch.

A.M. NEWS Tuesday 8-16-22

Broome County District Attorney Mike Korchak announced that 35-year-old Jason Johnson of Nineveh has been found guilty of attempted murder & several other charges for the shooting of State Trooper Becky Seager on June 9th , 2021. Troopers responded to East Windsor Road for a welfare check, Trooper Becky Seager was shot in the hip, which was followed by a 19-hour manhunt, Johnson was found the next day at State Route 79 near the Susquehanna River in the town of Colesville.

Delaware County Sheriff's office have arrested 47 year old James Amato of Colchester, back on July 12th, Deputies responded to a trespass in progress, where Amato is accused of entering a gated property after being told he was not allowed there. On August 10th, Deputies arrested Amato for Criminal Mischief & Criminal Trespass, he is scheduled to appear in the Town of Andes Court on a later date.

P.M. NEWS THURSDAY 7-28-22

The Chenango County Health Department statistics show a slight increase in COVID 19 levels over the past two weeks, however the CDC risk level for Chenango County remains "LOW". Health Department officials remind County Residents to get vaccinated & boosted, vaccine clinics are scheduled for August 1st for those seeking to get a Moderna, Pfizer 1st or 2nd Booster dose, another clinic will be on August 11th with a Moderna 1st Dose for children aged 2 to 11 years old. For more information, or to schedule an appointment, call the Chenango County Health Department at 607-337-1600.

The Chenango County Fair returns to the Fairgrounds in Norwich August 10th through the 14th, spokesperson Mary Weidman explains:

(Mary Weidman 7-28-22)

The full lineup at at the 175th Chenango County Fair can be found on their website: chenangofair.com.

The State Health department reported that there are 80 known cases of the Monkeypox virus in New York State currently. 32 of the 80 cases are in Westchester County, 17 in Suffolk County on Long Island, the rest of the cases are mostly isolated around New York City, its Northern Suburbs, 3 in the Capital District and 10 in Western New York Counties. More information about the virus is available at health.ny.gov.

Andrew Amodeo of Westchester County is facing charges in Otsego County for unlawful surveillance, for allegedly putting a camera in the bathroom of his vacation home in Fly Creek. Amodeo pleaded guilty to 1 count of unlawful surveillance & he is scheduled to be sentenced in March of 2023.

The Habitat for Humanity of Otsego County is now accepting applications from Otsego County residents currently living in unsuitable or unaffordable housing, to work with them on obtaining a loan and are willing to help build homes for others through the program. For more information or to apply, click on habitatotsego.org/homeowner-application. The application deadline is May 31.

A.M. NEWS FRIDAY 4-1-22

Broome County District Attorney Mike Korchak announced that Jordan Rindgen, Yaron Kweller & Leor Kweller were arraigned in Broome County Court. Rindgen was charged with Criminal Sale of a controlled substance, Criminal Possession of a controlled substance, sexual abuse, criminal sexual act, Criminal facilitation & Unlawfully dealing with a child. Yaron Kweller was charged with 1st degree Rape & Criminal Sexual act, Leor Kweller was charged with 1st degree rape & Sexual Abuse. The charges stem for an incident near the Colonial Bar in Downtown Binghamton that the 3 men owned, on November 27th of 2021. All 3 pleaded not guilty to the Charges from the Indictment handed down in Broome County Court.

P.M. NEWS WEDNESDAY 12-8-21

Chenango County Health Department confirmed their 92nd Resident death attributed to COVID-19 infection. Chenango County reports 321 active cases, 25% of them are fully vaccinated, there are 710 quarantined, 8 hospitalized. Links to Vaccination clinics are available at co.chenango.ny.us or covid19vaccine.health.ny.gov.

Chenango County Has added another set of materials to be recycled, Spokesman Dustin Hendricks explains:

(Dustin Hendricks 12-8-21)

Hendricks said that they have added Apparel Impact to the Textile recycling program, in addition to the Salvation Army Collection containers, they ask that all items are dry and don't contain mold, and they don't have to be in wearable condition.

A.M. NEWS WEDNESDAY 12-8-21

The State Health Department reported 2 more Omicron variant cases Tuesday, in Broome and Westchester Counties. Over 149,000 were tested for COVID with 8210 positives, for a positivity rate of 5.5%, Patient Hospitalization continue to sharply increase, they are up to 3,401, with 631 Patients in an ICU and 352 on ventilators, there were 52 deaths from COVID in hospitals & Nursing Homes Tuesday.

Delhi Police arrested 28-year-old Andrew Kreger of Delhi for 6 counts of Petty Larceny, 6 counts of Criminal Possession of Stolen Property, 6 counts of Criminal Possession of Forged Instrument and 3 counts of Forgery, follow a recent investigation. Kreger was arraigned in Delhi Town Court where he was remanded to the Delaware County Jail on $25,000 cash bail or $25,000 secured bond.

P.M. NEWS THURSDAY 12-2-21

State Police are reminding motorists to obey the states "Move Over Law" after a state trooper on duty in his patrol car in Westchester County, had a truck crashed into his vehicle early Tuesday morning. Trooper Carlos Desilva was monitoring traffic from inside his troop car on the shoulder of I-87 when he was struck by a truck that drifted off the roadway and slammed into Desilva's marked cruiser. State Police said the vehicle sustained heavy damage, Trooper Desilva was taken to an area hospital & was treated & released.

Delaware County Public Health continues to report a surge in COVID 19 cases, with 111 new positive cases reported on Tuesday & Wednesday. The County has 290 Active cases, 18 are now hospitalized and 290 are quarantined, only 53.4% of County Residents are fully vaccinated.

On Wednesday November 24th, 2021, the Town of Walton Court issued a bench warrant for the arrest of 41 year old Robert Smith of Walton, for failing to appear at court on a prior charge of criminal possession of stolen property. Delaware County Sheriff’ Deputies located Smith Tuesday in the Town of Walton, and arrested him on the bench warrant. Smith was arraigned at the Town of Walton Court and was released again in his own recognizance.

The Otsego County Fairgrounds in Morris is the site of this year's "Holiday Of Lights" Event. The event will run December 10th, 11th, 12th, 17th & 18th from 6:00 to 9:00 PM each night, the cost is $10 per carload, more information is available on the Otsego County Fair Facebook page.

Small Business Saturday may have already passed this holiday season, but area chambers are asking residents to continue to shop local wherever possible through the holiday season, Delaware County Chamber of Commerce President Ray Pucci explains:

(Ray Pucci 12-2-21)

Pucci said that 67% of money spent at local stores stays in the community, while shopping at chain stores contributes as low as only 14% to the community they are located in.

A.M. NEWS Thursday 12-2-21

Otsego County Department of Health reported 55 new cases of COVID 19 have been reported Wednesday, with an additional 22 cases also reported from November 18th to the 28th, which were in a nursing home and were not previously reported to the health department. Otsego County has 267 Active cases, with 8 Hospitalized & 2 more Deaths, Otsego County Department of Health recommends everyone, even those who are fully vaccinated, to wear a mask indoors in public, and to continue actively washing hands & practice social distancing.

Delaware County Public Health will be conducting a COVID-19 vaccination clinic today at 97 Main Street in Delhi from 2:00 to 4:00 PM. This clinic is open to people over the age of 18 & Boosters will be available at this clinic, pre-registration is required for all Moderna Boosters through apps2.health.ny.gov. The COVID vaccine is also available for people who are completing their first series

On Sunday evening, November 28th, 2021, Delaware County Sheriff’s Deputies were dispatched to a report of a car accident in the Town of Tompkins. 19-year old Tyler Wood of Sidney Center had 2 rifles in the vehicle, Wood is prohibited from possessing firearms, due to a previous felony conviction, he was charged with Criminal Possession of a Weapon & was released on an appearance ticket & is scheduled to appear in Town of Tompkins Court at a later date.

Delaware County Sheriff's Deputies observed a vehicle traveling on State Highway 10 in the Town of Walton, with one headlight out recently, the driver was identified as 22-year old Trevor Merwin of Walton, whose driver’s license was suspended for a previous failure to answer a summons. Merwin was charged with Aggravated Unlicensed Operation of a Motor Vehicle, Operating with Driver’s View Obstructed, and Operating with Inadequate Headlamps; he was released on tickets and is scheduled to appear at the Town of Walton Court at a later date.

P.M. NEWS TUESDAY 9-28-21

Chenango County Public Health confirmed their 84th COVID-19 attributed death today.  Chenango County Public Health has 105 active cases, including 33 vaccinated cases; they have 277 quarantined, & 2 hospitalized.    Only 57% of Chenango County Residents have had at least one dose of a COVID vaccine, more Pfizer vaccine clinics are expected to be scheduled next week, more information is available by calling 337-1660.

The Broome County Health Department announced that they have had to reopen their rapid COVID testing site.   Residents can get tested on weekdays from 3:00 to 6:00 PM by appointment only, in front of the health department on Front Street in Binghamton.  The announcement follows that the rapid increase in COVID cases in the county has once again increased demand for the testing, as some local health care providers were becoming overwhelmed with testing requests.  More information is available at 778-2802.

The New York State Department of Labor today announced the state’s $15 minimum wage phase-in will continue, with the next stage taking effect December 31, 2021. The minimum wage will rise to $15 per hour on Long Island and in Westchester, matching the New York City minimum; the minimum wage should rise to $13.20 per hour in the rest of the state.

The Village of Sidney announced that they be paving on Spruce Street,  Overlook Drive today along with the Upper & Lower parts of Hatfield Street, some of those street may be paved on Wednesday, more information is available at 561-2339.

A.M. NEWS TUESDAY 9-28-21

Shane Santiago of Otego was sentenced to 4 to 12 years in prison in Otsego County Court Monday for 2nd degree manslaughter, from the July 15, 2020, crash that killed 2 people in Pittsfield on county Route 13.  Tehya Gonzalez and Cheyenn Aubry were passengers in his Santiago’s car, which drove off the road at 85 miles an hour, killing them both. Santiago survived and was treated at the hospital for minor injuries.

Delaware County Sheriff's Deputies patrolling State Highway 10 in the Town of Delhi last Friday night, observed and stopped a vehicle that was being operated erratically, crossing the solid yellow center lines.   41-year-old Melissa Pycroft of Hobart was charged with driving while intoxicated, driving with a blood alcohol content of .08% or more, failure to keep right and moving from lane unsafely.    Pycroft was released on appearance tickets directing her to appear in the Town of Delhi Court on a later date to answer the charges.

Delaware County Public Health announced 30 new COVID 19 cases Saturday through Monday, with 163 active cases, 8 hospitalized & 275 quarantined.  50.5% of County residents are vaccinated, 75% of positive cases are unvaccinated, the percentage of school aged students & faculty with COVID is up to 28%.

Governor Andrew Cuomo is now being investigated for alleged sexual harassment by the Manhattan & Westchester District Attorney's offices, in addition to the investigation already underway by the Albany County Sheriff’s Department. The findings of the State Assembly Impeachment investigation are being turned over to all who are investigating Cuomo's alleged improprieties.

The Chenango Blues Festival begins tonight in the East Park in Downtown Norwich with a free show starting at 7:00 PM tonight, with Friday Night's concert at the Chenango County Fair Grounds in Norwich, the Friday show is Free to all but unvaccinated individuals should wear a mask and social distance. The Main show will be at the Chenango County Fairgrounds, No tickets will be available this year by mail or at the gate, Advance sale tickets will be $40 for adults 18 and over at chenangobluesfest.org/tickets, the headliner will be Jimmy Vaughn of Fabulous Thunderbird's" fame.

Former Westchester County Executive Rob Astorino is making another attempt to run for the Republican nomination for Governor. Astorino ran for Governor in 2014, losing by a large margin to Andrew Cuomo. Astorino is the 3rd Republican to announce a run for Governor in 2022; the others are Long Island Congressman Lee Zeldin and Lewis County Sheriff Mike Carpinelli.

Broome County officials announced today that the Binghamton Black Bears will make their home at the Visions Federal Credit Union Veterans Memorial Arena next season. The team is in the Federal Prospects Hockey League & will start playing in October, following the departure of the Binghamton Devils, who are relocating to Utica.

Delaware County Public Health will be conducting a Single dose Johnson & Johnson COVID-19 vaccination clinic today 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. Delaware County reported 6 new COVID cases Tuesday out of 188 tested, 7 are hospitalized, there are 42 active cases & 77 quarantined.

Former Westchester County Executive Rob Astorino throwing his hat in the ring for the party’s nomination, as he makes another attempt to run for Governor.  Astorino ran for governor in 2014, losing by a large margin to Andrew Cuomo.  Astorino is the 3rd Republican to announce a run for Governor in 2022; the others are Long Island Congressman Lee Zeldin and Lewis County Sheriff Mike Carpinelli.

Broome County officials announced today that the Binghamton Black Bears will make their home at the Visions Federal Credit Union Veterans Memorial Arena next season.  The team is in the Federal Prospects Hockey League & will start playing in October, following the departure of the Binghamton Devils, who are relocating to Utica.

Delaware County Public Health will be conducting a Single dose Johnson & Johnson COVID-19 vaccination clinic today 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.  Delaware County reported 6 new COVID cases Tuesday out of 188 tested, 7 are hospitalized, and there are 42 active cases & 77 quarantined.

Chenango County Public Health reported 38 more cases of COVID 19 since last week, bringing their total to 2376 since the pandemic started early last year.  There were 81 Active Cases, 211 Active Quarantines, and 13 Active Hospitalizations; there have been 2169 Total Recoveries.

State Police were dispatched to the report of a pedestrian struck by a vehicle in the town of Roxbury Sunday.  Police said that 42 year old Cory Davis of Fleischmanns was jogging with his back to traffic & turned into the path of a vehicle driven by an unidentified 75 year old man, who assisted Davis until help arrived.  Davis suffered head and lower body injuries and was airlifted to Westchester Medical Center for treatment, the incident remains under investigation.

State Police reported Sunday that a father-to-be was killed & his brother was injured involving an exploding device that was to be used in a gender reveal in Liberty. 28-year-old Christopher Pekny was killed in the blast while constructing the device in Sullivan County, 27-year-old Michael Pekny of Liberty was injured & was taken to an area hospital.  The investigation is continuing.

A.M. NEWS MONDAY 2-22-21

The State Health Department statistics Saturday showed that the statewide positivity rate was down to 2.99% the lowest rate since November 23rd.   The state reported over 221,000 tested, with 6610 positive tests, patient  Hospitalization were down to 5,764, patients in an ICU Bed were down to 1,162 & the number on ventilators was down to 794, there were 75 deaths from COVID Saturday.

Delaware County Public Health reported 14 new COVID cases Friday, 12 new cases Saturday & 10 cases Sunday.  Delaware County reported 23 hospitalized, 120 active cases & 238 quarantined.

The Sidney Central School District reported that two 10th grade and one 11th grade student have tested positive for COVID-19. The last time the students were on campus were 1/18 & 2/11.  The Delaware County Health Department has conducted an investigation and the contact tracing has been completed. There will be no change to the instructional model at this time.

There has been another delay in finding out who actually won the 22nd Congressional District between recent incumbent Democrat Anthony Brindisi, and the previous Congressional representative, Republican Claudia Tenney.  State Supreme Court Justice Scott Delconte ordered all counties involved in the race to certify their votes this week, however there were problems with Oneida County, yesterday, Brindisi filed a motion for a new recount following differences in vote counts throughout the process since Election Day.

Local government sales tax collections declined by 10 percent overall in 2020, or $1.8 billion, compared to the previous year, according to a report issued today by State Comptroller Tom DiNapoli. This decline was steeper than the drop during the Great Recession, when local sales tax collections fell 6 percent statewide in 2009 compared to 2008.  DiNapoli’s report also found that County sales tax collections decreased by 0.9 percent outside of New York City, Delaware County had the largest year-over-year increase at 10.7%, followed by Oswego at 10.5% and Westchester at 9.8%.

Chenango County Public Health reported 9 new cases of COVID 19 today, with 147 active cases, 449 quarantined & 21 hospitalized.  They also reported that they received 200 doses of the COVID Vaccine this week; they have administered over 800 doses so far.  County residents should go to the state "Am I Eligible App or go to the am-i-eligible.COVID19vaccine.health.ny.gov website.

Otsego County Health Department reported 1 new death from COVID 19, 12 new cases were reported Monday, and they have 146 active cases & 14 hospitalized.  Otsego County has had 742 new cases since the beginning of the year with 10 deaths; most of those cases have been attributed to holiday social gatherings.

U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand announced legislation that would invest billions in public school infrastructure and help cash-strapped school districts safely reopen under CDC guidelines. Gillibrand explained during a ZOOM press conference this afternoon:

(Gillibrand 2-2-21)

The Reopen and Rebuild America’s Schools Act of 2021 would invest more than $100 billion in grant funding to schools with facilities that pose health and safety risks to students and staff, allocate funding for updates to combat the spread of COVID-19, and expand access to reliable, high-speed broadband to continue digital learning.

Delaware County Public Health reported only 4 positive COVID tests Monday out of 197 tested, for about 2% positivity rate.  The County reports 18 hospitalized, 246 quarantined & 101 total active cases.

Chenango County Public Health reported 2 more COVID 19 deaths today, bringing their total up to 39.  The County reports 179 Active Cases, 512 Quarantines & 17 Hospitalizations.

The State Health Department reported Additional cases of the UK variant have been identified throughout New York State. The new cases have been found in Long Island, New York City, Westchester, Saratoga, Tompkins, Niagara, Onondaga, Essex and Warren Counties, bringing the statewide total to 42 known cases.

The Delaware County Board of Supervisors approved of the purchase of property to begin the construction of new Department of Public Works facilities.  Delaware County Public Works Commissioner Sue McIntyre comments:

(Sue McIntyre 1-28-21)

McIntyre said that the projects will be going out for bid shortly; she said that the existing Page Avenue structure in Delhi is beyond the point of repair at a reasonable cost to County Taxpayers.

A.M. NEWS THURSDAY 1-28-21

Chenango County Public Health administered 615 doses of Moderna vaccine; they began with the first eligible groups, which included doctors, nurses, as well as law enforcement, fire personnel, EMS & adult care facilities.  Clinics were also held at the Broad Street Methodist Church & Bartle’s Pharmacy in Oxford.

The Sidney Central School District reported 2 positive COVID-19 cases, 1 teacher and 1 Kindergarten student have tested positive. The last time the student was on campus was Wednesday, January 20th.  The Delaware County Health Department has conducted an investigation and the contact tracing has been completed. There will be no change to the instructional model at this time. The exposure has been minimized in this case

Delaware County Public Health reported 15 new COVID cases Wednesday; they report 20 hospitalizations, 163 active cases & 329 quarantined.

Otsego County Health Department reported 20 new COVID cases Wednesday, with 17 hospitalized & 1 new death reported.  The County has had 9 deaths since January 1st & 28 since last spring.

Chenango County Sheriff’s Office arrested 67 year old Benjamin Izard of Norwich for Criminal Contempt and Harassment.   Izard is accused of violating an order of protection by harassing a protected party. Benjamin was arraigned using virtual arraignment and remanded to Chenango County Corrections on $500 cash bail.

The Broome County Health Department announced today that they are up to 371 Coronavirus cases since early March; they have 23 deaths, 241 recoveries & 217 patients being monitored by the Health Department.

Governor Cuomo announced that The State Department of Health is partnering with the NY Genome Center and Rockefeller University to conduct a genome and RNA sequencing study to better understand COVID-related illnesses in children and the possible genetic basis of the Kawasaki syndrome, following the deaths of 3 children from the Coronavirus:

(Cuomo children)

State Health Commissioner Dr. Howard Zucker comments:

(Zucker 5-11-20)

There have been 85 reported cases in New York where children are experiencing symptoms similar to Kawasaki disease and toxic shock-like syndrome possibly due to COVID-19. The illness has taken the lives of a 5-year old in New York City, a 7-year old in Westchester County and a teenager in Suffolk County.

Chenango County Public Health announced more positive Coronavirus cases Sunday, bringing their total up to 109.  They currently have 42 people quarantined, 5 are hospitalized, 4 have died & 79 have recovered.

Delaware County reports that they are up to 75 confirmed cases of COVID-19 Sunday, There are an additional 12 people under mandatory quarantine,  13 confirmed cases have been transferred back to the patients home county, 3 are hospitalized, 6 are isolated at home, 4 people are deceased and 49 have fully recovered.

Governor Cuomo announced that system that has been set up to distribute Ventilators where they are needed is underway.  The "Surge and Flex" hospital system led to the distribution of 802 ventilators downstate,  38 were deployed to Rockland County, 36 were deployed to Westchester County, 505 were deployed to New York City and 223 were deployed to Long Island.

Chenango County Public Health announced their latest Coronavirus Statistics today, they report 46 confirmed cases, with 80 Precautionary Quarantines, 292 Mandatory Quarantines, 7 Active Hospitalizations, 7 Recoveries, after administering 212 tests.

The Otsego County Department of Health announced that they now have 33 confirmed cases of the Coronavirus, 4 are hospitalized, 9 have recovered & there has been 1 death.   113 people are in mandatory quarantine, 2 people on precautionary quarantine, 43 people have been released from quarantine.

With uncertainty surrounding the spread of the Coronavirus, Broome County officials announced that the 2020 Greater Binghamton Air Show, originally scheduled for July 25th, 2020 will be postponed until 2021. Broome County Executive Jason Garnar stated that many of the event’s partners have already ensured commitment to their participation in the 2021 Air Show.

Governor Cuomo announced today that
New York State now has 142 confirmed cases of the Corona Virus, more than any
other state in the country.  8 of the
patients are currently hospitalized, most of the cases are in Westchester
County, 19 are in New York City, and many downstate schools are closing due to
the outbreaks.

The Otsego County Chamber of Commerce
will hold their “Evening with the Stars,” annual business awards event on
Thursday, May 7th at 5:45 pm at The Foothills Performing Arts Center in
Oneonta.    Custom Electronics is the
recipient of the NBT Bank Distinguished Business of the Year; New York State
Senator Jim Seward is the recipient of the Eugene Bettiol, Jr., Distinguished
Citizen Award.

Delaware County Sheriff Deputies
arrested 40-year-old Dana-John Britton of Oneonta on Bench Warrants issued by
the Town of Delhi Court for failure to appear on previous charges of Petty
Larceny and Falsifying Business Records.
Britton was arraigned in the Town of Delhi Court and was released on his
own recognizance; he was turned over to Binghamton City Police on a warrant for
Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance.

Delaware County Sheriff’s Deputies
arrested and charged 20 year-old Michael Bryden of Delhi for Petty Larceny
& Criminal Mischief, he is accused of physically cutting and stealing a
catalytic converter off a vehicle parked at a Town of Delhi seasonal residence
between last October & January.
Bryden was released on appearance tickets and directed to appear in the
Town of Delhi Court on a later date.

Following 1 reported quarantine for
the corona Virus in Otsego County, The Otsego County Chamber of Commerce has
compiled resources for the Coronavirus, The websites include:
health.ny.gov/coronavirus, otsegocounty.com/departments/d-m/health &
bassett.org/covid-19

During a briefing on the novel
coronavirus earlier today, Governor Cuomo confirmed 11 additional cases of
novel coronavirus, bringing the total to 22 confirmed cases in New York State.
Of the 22 individuals who tested positive for the virus, one resides in Nassau
County, three reside in New York City and 18 reside in Westchester County. In
response to the growing number of cases, the Governor activated the statewide
Emergency Operation Center in Albany, as well as two Emergency Operations
Center outposts in Westchester County: one in Hawthorne and one in New
Rochelle.

The Manslaughter Trial of
Kimberly Steeley continues today in Otsego County Court.  Steeley is accused of the asphyxiation deaths
of her 2 infants 2 weeks apart in East Worcester in June of 2018.

Governor Cuomo announced that individuals in Buffalo, Oneida
County & Suffolk County tested negative, but 4 more individuals in
Westchester County have tested positive for Coronavirus.  Governor Cuomo reported this afternoon that
the 50 year old Attorney from Westchester County is hospitalized with the
Coronavirus, his wife, 20 year old son & 14 year old Daughter tested
positive & are convalescing at home, the neighbor that drove the attorney
to the hospital also tested positive.
Those at risk include the elderly, those with compromised Immune systems
& those with lung & sinus conditions or chronic diseases.  The Governor also announced that SUNY
students studying in China, Italy, Japan, Iran and South Korea, will have those
studies suspended due to the coronavirus outbreaks in those countries.

Delaware County Sheriff’s
Deputies arrested 20-year-old Michael Scarimbolo of Meredith Tuesday for 2nd
degree harassment.  Scarimbolo is accused
of punching a vehicle window and threatening to physically strike the operator
of the vehicle during a confrontation in the Town of Meredith on February 16th,
he faces court action today in the Town of Meredith Court.

A Missing Vulnerable Adult Alert has been issued for 77 year
old Robert Shield, who suffers from Alzheimer's disease, and is missing from
Oswego County.  Shield is described as
5'8" 145 Pounds with Blond Hair, Blue Eyes; he was driving a 2019 Nissan
Rogue with License Plate Number JEM-1426.
He was last seen Tuesday Afternoon in Pennellville New York, and may be
in the Greater Binghamton area, and may be heading for Myrtle Beach South
Carolina.  Anyone with information is
asked to call 911 or State Police at 315-366-6000.

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

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

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

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

The Centers for Disease Control & Prevention announced
that Measles continues to spread in the United States, with more 704 cases
reported this year in 22 states, the highest amounts reported since 1994.  The CDC reported that 44 people caught the
disease while traveling in another country & the largest outbreaks was from
an in Orthodox Jewish community in Rockland County, No deaths have been reported
but 66 patients were hospitalized.

The State DEC announced that spring turkey season opens
tomorrow May 1st, in all of the Upstate Counties north of the Bronx-Westchester
County boundary.   Turkey hunters took an
estimated 19,000 birds in New York during last year's spring season. More
information is available at DEC.NY.GOV.

The National Baseball Hall of
Fame & Museum announced today that Tim Mead has been named as the new
President.  Mead has spent the last 22
years with the Los Angeles Angels organization as its Vice President of Communications;
Mead will replace Jeff Idelson, who recently announced his retirement as Hall
of Fame President.

The Chenango County Sheriff’s Deputies responded Sunday
night to a report of a car crashing into the Town of German Town Hall.   The cause of the crash was distracted
driving, the unidentified driver was ticketed & faces court action at a
later date, the court action will have to be held elsewhere as the court room
was destroyed in the crash, and the building will have to be replaced.

Measles
continues to spread in New York State with cases occurring in New York City,
Westchester County, Orange County, Sullivan County, and Rockland County.
Outbreaks are also occurring in the states of New Jersey, California,
Washington, and Michigan and several foreign countries. There have been no
cases of measles in Delaware County to date.
For additional information you can check the CDC’s website for
up-to-date outbreak information cdc.gov/measles/cases-outbreaks.html

The City of
Norwich Spring Cleanup of yard debris will be coming soon.   City officials stated that clear bags must
be used; Brush must be tied with string; branches and no longer than 6' or
3" inches in diameter. Debris must be placed between the sidewalk and the
curb. Pickup occurs in May, exact dates will be released shortly.

The Delaware
County Department of Public Works will be closing County Route 44 in the Town
of Sidney to through traffic on Monday at 7:00 am for bridge repairs. The road
will be closed at Bridge 44-1 which is located 0.25 miles north of the
intersection with State Route 357.  It is
expected that the road will be remain closed until Friday, April 19th. The
detour will be Covered Bridge Road to State Route 357.

As New York
State Leaders consider making the recreational use of Marijuana legal across
the state, the New York Sheriff's Association, and other law enforcement
agencies are against that idea.  Delaware
County Sheriff Craig Dumond commented on what happened in Colorado after they
became the first state to legalize recreational marijuana:

(Sheriff
Dumond 4-12-19)

A study by
the American Journal of Psychiatry showed that people who use marijuana are 3
times more likely to use opioids; another study showed an increase in Psychosis
and schizophrenia among daily users, and states with recreational marijuana saw
a jump in murders & Aggravated Assaults attributed to its use.

The 14th
annual Otsego County Conservation Association Earth Festival will take place on
tomorrow from 11:00 AM to 3:00 PM at Milford Central School.  The Earth Festival will be featuring
exhibits, workshops, vendors, food and entertainment.  More information is available at
occainfo.org.