WCDO Radio News

P.M. NEWS TUESDAY 12-22-20

U.S. Senator Charles Schumer announced that New York will receive 54 billion dollars from the latest Stimulus package; residents are expected to get about 9 Billion Dollars in direct payments.  Schumer said that there was still no Stimulus money for State & Local Governments in this package; he hoped that would be included in January under the Biden Administration.

P.M. NEWS WEDNESDAY 12-16-20

The National Weather Service has issued a Winter Storm Warning this afternoon through tomorrow Morning as a major storm heads up the East Coast; Meteorologist Rich Townsend told WCDO News what he expects:

(Townsend 12-16-20)

Townsend & the National weather service expect a total of about 14 inches from this storm.

Chenango County Public Health announced their latest COVID 19 statistics today, they added 12 more positive cases, they have 137 Active Cases, 8 are hospitalized, 558 are Quarantined, and they have had 892 Total Confirmed Cases, with 730 recoveries & 16 deaths.

SUNY Broome announced that they will go to all remote learning this afternoon & this evening, no decision has been made regarding Thursday classes at SUNY Broome.

A.M. NEWS WEDNESDAY 12-16-20

Otsego County Department of Health reported 28 new COVID cases Tuesday, they report 16 hospitalized and 1 more death. Otsego County has had 1625 total confirmed cases, 151 active cases, & 10 deaths.

P.M. NEWS THURSDAY 12-3-20

Governor Cuomo announced that New York State will receive an initial delivery of COVID-19 vaccine doses for 170,000 New Yorkers; they should start arriving on December 15. Governor Cuomo said that it could be difficult to get enough vaccines, and over time it could be difficult to get people to want to get the vaccine, which is why they will have their own state panel check out the FDA approvals:

(Cuomo 12-3-30)

Governor Cuomo said that the State expects additional allocations of vaccines from Pfizer and Moderna later this month.

State & Local Health Departments are seeing a rapid increase in COVID 19 cases in the last month, with a state wide increase in Hospitalizations of about 350% since November 1st.  Heather Warner of Delaware County Public Health told WCDO news of the latest trends that they are finding with COVID 19 positive cases:

(Heather Warner 12-3-20)

Warner said that people need to remember to wash their hands, wear their facemasks correctly, socially distance by 6 feet and avoid large gatherings or event get together with a small number of people in one residence or location.

Bidding ends tomorrow on the Bainbridge Chamber of Commerce Holiday Wreaths fundraiser, Chamber spokesperson June White explains:

(June White 12-3-20)

The highest bidders on each of the 22 wreaths will be notified, and the wreaths will be distributed at Bob's Diner in Bainbridge.

A.M. NEWS THURSDAY 12-3-20

Otsego County Department of Health reported 16 new COVID cases reported Wednesday, they report 91 active cases, 11 are hospitalized, they've had 1340 total confirmed cases with 8 deaths, and 766 cases are linked to SUNY Oneonta & 71 confirmed cases linked to Hartwick College.

P.M. NEWS TUESDAY 12-1-20

State Police arrested 29 year old Norman Shaheen of Smithville following a raid on his residence last week.  Police seized 339 grams of methamphetamine, as well as a shotgun, a handgun, drug paraphernalia & packaging materials, he was charged with criminal possession with intent to distribute a controlled substance and possession of firearms, he is being held in jail pending court proceedings.

The Latest vote count in the 22nd Congressional District has now swung back to give Republican Claudia Tenney the lead over incumbent Democrat Anthony Brindisi.  All of the Counties have to certify their vote totals, State Supreme Court Justice Scott DelConte ordered each of the 8 counties in the congressional district to submit a final, unofficial count to the court by yesterday afternoon, the next court action is expected next Monday December 7th, when Judge DelConte is expected to rule on

2000 disputed ballots.

A.M. NEWS TUESDAY 12-1-20

Governor Cuomo today announced New York's annual statewide holiday donation drive to benefit families in need across the state begins today.  Donations of new unwrapped toys, coats and school supplies are being sought to assist community-based organizations during the holiday giving season.  The Office of General Services has set up drop-off locations across the state through Wednesday, December 16.  COVID-19 protocols will be in place to ensure the safety of those dropping off donations including masks, social distancing, and access to hand sanitizer.  The drop-off locations include the Binghamton State Office Building, 44 Hawley St., Binghamton & the Homer Folks Facility, 28 Hill Street Oneonta.

Delaware County Public Health released their latest COVID 19 numbers Monday, they report 14 new cases, they have 71 active cases, 4 people are hospitalized, 234 are quarantined, and they have had 372 cases since March with 9 deaths & 292 recoveries.

P.M. NEWS Monday 11-30-20

Governor Cuomo held a daily COVID 19 briefing today, as the numbers keep increasing, he talked about the importance of Hospitals being ready for the next wave of activity:

(Cuomo 11-30-20)

The state tested over 148,000 Sunday, with over 6800 people testing positive, a rate of 4.5%, the number of people hospitalized is 3532, triple the number in the last 30 days, there were 57 deaths from the virus Sunday, the state death toll is 26,747.

Chenango County Public Health announced their latest COVID 19 numbers today, they have 60 active cases, 324 Quarantines & 6 Hospitalizations, they have had 639 total cases, with 551 Recoveries, 10 deaths & they have conducted 44,991 tests.

The Delaware County Chamber of Commerce & other organizations have teamed up for the annual Toys for Tots campaign throughout the county, Chamber President Ray Pucci explains:

(Ray Pucci 11-30-20)

Area drop off points include Delhi Telephone Company, Arc of Delaware County, Beaver Mountain Log Homes in Deposit, Mirabito Energy Products on Steiner Road in Sidney & the Sidney Airport.  This year’s Delaware County campaign runs through this Friday December 4th, when Chamber staff will pick up the toys from member businesses, more information is available at 746-1600.

A.M. NEWS MONDAY 11-30-20

The State Health Department tested over 158,000 people Saturday, with more than 6700 positive tests reported.  Patient Hospitalization is up to 3,372, the Number in an ICU bed is up to 667 & those on Ventilators are at 326.  There were 55 Deaths; the Total number of Deaths statewide is 26,690.

P.M. NEWS MONDAY 11-26-20

Governor Cuomo announced that 124,565 COVID 19 tests were administered Sunday, with 3490 positive results, or 2.8% of all tested. another 123 New Yorkers were hospitalized, bringing the state number to 1,968. another 13 were placed in an ICU unit, bringing the state total to 391, patients on Ventilators stayed the same at 158. There were another 25 deaths Sunday, the state death toll is at 26,159.

Motorists on the New York State Thruway won't have to stop at toll booths anymore, as cashless tolling is now in effect. Old Toll booths are being removed, and when motorists driving under a "gantry"; cameras will capture each and every license plate, those who do not have an EZ Pass will get a bill in the mail about 30 days later.

A.M. NEWS MONDAY 11-16-20

Governor Cuomo discussed the New York State approach to get vaccines to every New York as quickly as possible, once is becomes available & once it is proven effectively by an independent study:

(Cuomo 11-16-20)

The Governor said that in 8 month since the COVID 19 crisis hit the US, less than half the people were able to be tested, vaccinated everyone will be an even bigger task.

Delaware County Public Health released their latest statistics Sunday, 4 new cases were reported, following 2 new cases on Saturday, they are up to 64 active cases, 11 are hospitalized & quarantines are at 204. Delaware County has had 273 total cases, 200 recoveries & 9 deaths.

Governor Cuomo released the latest COVID 19 Numbers for Saturday with 133,202 test performed with 3649 positive tests, or 2.7%: Patient Hospitalization were up to 1,845, Patients in an ICU were up to 378 & patients on Ventilators went up to 158, there were 30 deaths, the state death toll is up to 26,133

P.M. NEWS WEDNESDAY 11-11-20

50 year old Richard Millard of Vestal was sentenced to 6 years in prison for starting a fire that caused Home Central in Vestal, to burn down in February. Millard was charged with 2nd degree arson, he pleaded guilty in August in Broome County Court & was sentenced there Tuesday.

Chenango County Public Health announced today their latest COVID 19 numbers, they have 36 Active cases, 240 are quarantined, & 4 people are hospitalized. They report a total of 472 cases since the spring, with 9 deaths, 413 recoveries & they have conducted just under 40,000 tests.

Hartwick College reported no new cases of COVID-19 were reported, they still have 9 active cases on campus; the total number of cases detected on campus since August 1st is 66.

A.M. NEWS WEDNESDAY 11-11-20

Otsego County Department of Health reported 4 new cases of COVID 19 Tuesday. The County has 39 active cases, no one is hospitalized, there have been 8 deaths, of the 1072 total confirmed cases, 755 cases are linked to SUNY Oneonta & 64 cases are reported in Hartwick College students .

Assemblyman Cliff Crouch participated in a bridge dedication ceremony for the Sidney Veterans’ Memorial Highway Tuesday, he told WCDO News of the importance of that dedication to Veterans:

(Cliff Crouch 11-11-20)

Crouch and State Senator Jim Seward sponsored legislation last year that allowed for the dedication of the stretch of Route 8 between the Susquehanna River and I-88 in Sidney to honor veterans in the community and state.

P.M. NEWS FRIDAY 10-23-20

Delaware County Sheriff's Department arrested 19 year old Dakota Hall of Fleischmanns for 2nd degree murder following a domestic dispute in Fleischmanns Thursday night.  Deputies, State Police & EMT's responded at about 10:50 PM Thursday night to a reported stabbing at a residence on Main Street. The stabbing victim, 27-year-old Eric Hall, was taken to Margaretville Memorial Hospital and died for injuries sustained in the attack.  Dakota Hall was taken into custody without incident by Deputies for allegedly stabbing his brother; Hall was arraigned and was remanded to the Delaware County Jail without bail pending future court action.  The investigation is ongoing.

The Chenango County Health Department announced that their contact tracing team interviewed a confirmed positive COVID-19 case, that individual reported having visited the Greene Community Fitness Center at 7 South Canal Street in Greene between October 11th & 14th during the infectious period.   Any individual frequenting this establishment during the time indicated below should closely monitor themselves for COVID symptoms, those who exhibit symptoms should self-quarantine and contact their medical provider.  Chenango County Public Health announced their latest COVID 19 statistics today.  Currently they have 47 Active Cases, 230 Quarantines with 2 hospitalizations.  They have had 347 Total Confirmed Cases, 253 Total Recoveries, 7 deaths & they have conducted over 33,900 tests, more information is available at 337-1660.

Early voting begins tomorrow around the region.  Area Counties have different times & locations for early voting from tomorrow through November 1st, contact your county Board of Elections for specific dates & times.

A.M. NEWS FRIDAY 10-23-20

Broome County Health Department announced that they have 103 new COVID 19 cases and 55 recoveries, the county's active cases up to 646.  There was another death reported, bringing the county's death count up to 89, the number of people hospitalized went up by 5 to a total of 19.  The total number of cases is up to 3060, 2325 have recovered.  The County has a 3.7% positivity rate; it's over 9% in the state designated "Yellow" zone.

P.M. NEWS FRIDAY 10-16-20

The Delaware County Board of Elections reminds area voters that Early Voting is available prior to the November 3rd General Election. Early voting for Delaware County registered voters will take place at the Board of Elections Office at 3 Gallant Avenue in Delhi, at various times starting on Saturday October 24th through Sunday November 2nd. The Board of Elections Office is accessible to voters with disabilities; more information is available at 832-5321.

The Circle Drive Alliance Church in Sidney is participating in the Samaritan's Purse Operation Christmas Child "ShoeBox" program, where people can donate items for children in need around the world. Local Spokesperson Marie Cole told WCDO News that they will participate using COVID guidelines starting this weekend:

(Marie Cole 10-16-20)

People can pick up the boxes at various times starting Monday, through Wednesday, after they are returned they can be dropped off at Circle Drive Alliance church where they will be trucked to Charlotte North Carolina for distribution where needed. More information about the programs is available at samaritanspurse.org.

Chenango County Public Health announced their latest COVID 19 numbers today, they report that they are up to 291 cases, with 26 Active Cases, no one is hospitalized, and there are 205 Active Quarantines. Since March there have been 7 deaths 246 Total Recoveries & 32,599 tests have been conducted.

A.M. NEWS FRIDAY 10-16-20

The State Department of Labor announced that the State's seasonally adjusted unemployment rate decreased from 12.5% to 9.7% in September. The number of unemployed New York State residents decreased by 302,000, while labor force levels decreased by 362,900.

P.M. NEWS THURSDAY 10-15-20

SUNY Oneonta President Barbara Jean Morris has resigned and SUNY Chancellor Jim Malatras named an interim president in Oneonta This Afternoon:

(Jim Malatras 10-15-20)

Acting SUNY Oneonta President Dennis Craig will take over until a permanent president is named, after guiding SUNY Purchase to a successful re-opening plan this fall:

(Dennis Craig 10-15-20)

SUNY Oneonta's re-opening was problematic, with over 700 positive cases associated with the college; Hartwick College meanwhile had 21 cases.

Governor Cuomo gave the latest statistics regarding COVID 19 today.  133,000 people were tested Wednesday, with 1460 testing positive, there were 13 deaths bringing the state death toll to 25,618.    Hospitalizations went down by over 40 to 897, Patients ICU beds went down slightly to 197 and Patients on ventilators went down to 95.

The deadline to respond to the US Census is this tomorrow Morning at 6:00 AM.  The Census can be filled out online at 2020 census.gov & takes 10 to 15 minutes to complete.

A.M. NEWS Thursday 10-15-20

Delaware County Public Health reported 2 new cases of COVID 19 Wednesday, giving the County 137 since March.  There are 10 active cases, all isolating at home, 106 are quarantined, and there have been 8 deaths and 119 recoveries.

P.M. NEWS Thursday 10-1-20

Governor Cuomo reported that Clusters of COVID 19 cases increased several of the state’s numbers on Wednesday.  There were 1382 new cases diagnosed out of over 109,000 tests administered, which was a 1.27% positivity rate.  Patient Hospitalizations went up to 612, there were 141 Patients in ICU beds, 63 were on ventilators, and there were 11 deaths Wednesday, bringing the state death toll to 25,490.

The Broome County Health Department reported 83 more positive cases of COVID 19 since Tuesday, bringing their total to 1610 cases, they still report 82 deaths, 1285 recoveries and 1157 people are being monitored by the health department, following the latest cluster reported in Binghamton last weekend.

With cold weather just around the corner, customers will be firing up furnaces and other appliances for the first time this season. NYSEG officials urge the public to recognize the potential signs of a natural gas leak and review the following safety tips about what do if a leak is suspected.

(Ridge Harris 10-1-20)

NYSEG officials report that you should leave immediately & call NYSEG at 1-800-572-1121 from a safe location, Do not smoke or operate electrical switches or appliances, as those items may produce a spark that  might ignite the natural gas and cause an explosion.

A.M. NEWS Thursday 10-1-20

Otsego County Department of Health reported 4 new cases of COVID 19 Wednesday, all 4 were SUNY Oneonta students, and also 3 cases were reported in SUNY students that had not previously been reported.  Otsego County reports 893 total confirmed cases, 17 are active cases with 1 hospitalization, there have been 7 deaths.   722 cases are linked to the SUNY Oneonta outbreak, 19 confirmed cases in Hartwick College students

P.M. NEWS WEDNESDAY 9-30-20

Governor Cuomo announced that the state had an even 1000 new positive COVID 19 tests Tuesday, out of almost 98,000 tests administered. The state has a total of 458,649 positive cases since March, there were 9 deaths, bringing the state total to 25,470. The Governor also announced Tuesday that 1 state was added & 2 were removed from the state's traveler’s advisory list. Travelers from Colorado will now have to self-quarantine for 14 days after arriving in New York, Arizona and Virginia were removed today, the full list is available at coronavirus.health.ny.gov.

Chenango County Public Health announced their latest COVID 19 numbers Wednesday. They report 251 total cases since March, there are 3 Active Cases, 2 hospitalizations, 7 deaths, 228 recoveries, and they have conducted more than 28,800 tests.

P.M. NEWS TUESDAY 9-29-20

Governor Cuomo today held a COVID 19 briefing regarding an outbreak of clusters of the virus in 27 zip codes around the state, including 1 in Binghamton:

(Cuomo 9-29-20)

The Governor Said that Rapid Testing kits are being sent immediately to the areas where the clusters have hit, he also said that many of the downstate clusters were tied to religious events, and he is addressing various religious leaders today to remind them that all faiths are required to wear masks, keep social distance and wash hands vigorously.

Governor Cuomo announced that there were 1189 news positive COVID 19 tests on M0onday with over 88,000 tests administered. Hospitalizations increased again to 571, there are 147 in ICU beds and 61 are on Ventilators, there were 2 deaths Monday, the death toll is 25,470.

The Broome County Health Department reported another 50 COVID 19 positive cases since yesterday, with a total of 1527 cases, an increase of about 156 since Friday. The number of deaths remains at 82, recoveries is at 1265, which is 15 more since Monday, 876 people are being monitored by the Broome Health Department since the latest Binghamton area cluster was found.

Chenango Arts Council has not been able to bring any live events to the region this year due to the pandemic & subsequent shutdown, & they had to come up with a way to pay the bills and keep going until better days arrived. Council Executive Director Alecia O'Neill told WCDO News that they have devised an online catalog on their website to act as a conduit between those who want to see the arts and the artists:

(Alecia O'Neill 9-29-20)

O'Neill said that the Guide to the New World of Arts and Culture is an interactive 54 page online catalog is available at chenangoarts.org, more information about sponsorships or the online catalog is available at 336-2787.

A.M. NEWS TUESDAY 9-29-20

The Otsego County Department of Health had 15 additional cases reported over the past 4 days. 1 of those is a Hartwick college student, 5 were county residents, & 9 were SUCO students, of those 9, 5 were new infections and 4 are already recovered but had not been reported to the health department. Otsego County reports a total of 883 confirmed cases, with 15 active cases, 1 hospitalization, there have been 7 deaths. 714 cases are linked to SUNY Oneonta, 18 confirmed cases were from Hartwick College students

P.M. NEWS MONDAY 9-28-20

Governor Cuomo announced today that the residential tenant eviction protection has been extended to January 1st.  The state's Safe Harbor Act protects tenants from COVID-related residential evictions and foreclosures. Last week, the governor also announced an emergency moratorium on evictions and foreclosures for commercial tenants is being extended through October 20th.

Chenango County Public Health announced their latest COVID 19 numbers Monday.  They have had 249 cases since March; currently there are 2 Active Cases, 1 hospitalization, 73 Active Quarantines 227 Recoveries, 7 deaths and over 28,600 Tests Performed.

This is the final week of the Hospice & Palliative  care of Chenango County's "The Greatest Dinner that Never Was" fundraiser.  Spokesperson Sarah Green told WCDO news about this week's schedule of events:

(Sarah Green 9-28-20)

More information is available by calling their office at 334-3556, or going to their website HospiceChenango.org/Events or their Facebook page.

The Bainbridge Chamber of Commerce announced that the Deadline is this Wednesday to vote for their CITIZEN    & BUSINESS OF THE YEAR awards.  Votes can be cast by sending an email to bainbridge.chamber@yahoo.com.

A.M. NEWS MONDAY 9-28-20

Delaware County Sheriff's Department & State Police investigated a 2-car fatal accident Friday morning in Delhi.  Killed were 74 year old Sandra Elmore and her passenger, 80 year old Eugene Mills, both of Downsville.  Elmore was driving north on state Route 10 when her car crossed over into the southbound lane and collided with a car driven by 32 year old Michael Beilby of East Meredith.  The cause of the crash remains under investigation by members of the Delaware County Sheriff's Office Criminal Investigation Division and State Police Collision Reconstruction Unit.

P.M. NEWS FRIDAY 9-25-20

State Police arrested an Otsego County juvenile for Making a Terroristic Threat. State Police reported that on Tuesday approximately 40 illegitimate phone calls were made to Otsego County 911 between 7:00 & 9:00 PM, some of the calls threatened the 911 center and members of Law Enforcement. An investigation led troopers to a residence in the city of Oneonta where troopers interviewed an adult and a juvenile. The juvenile was arrested and issued a Family Court Appearance ticket. Investigators determined there are no other suspects involved.

Several Oneonta Area organizations have teamed up for a series of outdoor movies to be held at the Foothills Performing Arts Center Parking lot on Market Street in Oneonta. The gates open at 6:00 PM, Labyrinth will be the feature tomorrow night, Jurassic Park will play October 3rd & The Hunger Games October 10th, in case of inclement weather, the movies will be moved to the Club Odyssey at 80 Water Street in Oneonta, with COVID restrictions.

A.M. NEWS FRIDAY 9-25-20

The Broome County Health Department announced their latest COVID 19 numbers Thursday afternoon, they are reporting 1377 total cases, with 82 deaths, 1232 recoveries & 729 people are being monitored by the Department

P.M. NEWS FRIDAY 9-18-20

The Otsego County Department of Health, Bassett Medical Center & NYS Department of Health has partnered to provide a rapid testing to Otsego County residents.  The testing will be performed on Tuesday & Wednesday from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM each day at the Foothills Performing Arts & Civic Center on Market Street in Oneonta, for those who pre-register at 547-4279.

Chenango County Public Health announced their latest COVID 19 numbers today; they still report 245 total cases, with 6 active cases & 1 current hospitalization, & 104 quarantines.  Chenango County has had 7 deaths, 220 recoveries & they have performed over 26,400 tests.

Governor Cuomo today announced that the New York State Department of Motor Vehicles is expanding online services, making it easier for New Yorkers to do business with the DMV from the comfort of their homes, and allowing the DMV to serve more customers in person who cannot complete their transactions online. The DMV has initiated a pilot program to offer the written learner permit tests for passenger cars and motorcycles online. It is also piloting a process to allow customers who reside in counties served by the state DMV to register their vehicles online. More information can be found on the DMV website at dmv.ny.gov.

A.M. News Friday 9-18-20

The Lake County Sheriff’s Office in Florida found the body of Otsego County Native Michael Shaver buried under a concrete slab in the backyard of his home in 2018,  his wife, 37-year-old Laurie Shaver, has been arrested for 2nd-degree homicide.  Shaver's family had told authorities that they had not heard from Michael since 2015.

P.M. NEWS THURSDAY 9-17-20

Governor Cuomo released the latest statewide numbers for COVID 19 on Wednesday. Over 75,000 tests were conducted, 652 positive tests were diagnosed, about .87% of all tested. The State has had over 447,000 cases of COVID 19 since March, there were 483 people hospitalized, 4 people died on Wednesday from the virus, the death toll is 25,413.

Chenango County Sheriff's Department arrested 2 Norwich for allegedly stealing 8 Catalytic Converters from cars at a Norwich Dealership. 35 year old Paul Knuth Jr. & 36 year old Samuel Furlong were charged with 3rd degree Grand Larceny, Criminal Mischief & conspiracy, for removing the Converters selling them, causing about $11,000 damage to the vehicles, both were issued appearance tickets for town of Norwich Court at a later date.

A.M. NEWS THURSDAY 9-17-20

Binghamton Police have arrested 28-year-old Macoley Saunders of Binghamton on charges of Attempted murder, criminal use of a firearm, Criminal possession of a firearm, Assault & Resisting arrest, plus charges relating to a domestic dispute in July. Saunders was located riding on the back of a motorcycle on Main Street in Johnson City. He led police on a pursuit on Route 17 going the wrong way in an attempt to evade police, Eventually, Saunders led police on a foot chase. A Binghamton K9 was able to take him down, a struggled ensued, and Saunders was able to fire one shot toward police officers before being disarmed. Saunders is currently being held in the Broome County Jail.

P.M. NEWS THURSDAY 9-3-20

State University of New York Chancellor Jim Malatras announced today that he has directed SUNY Oneonta to develop and implement a plan to send on-campus students home and cease all in-person classes and activities for the rest of the fall semester, all classes will be held virtually.   SUNY Oneonta officials announced this morning that they had another 100 positive cases of COVID 19 to report, bringing the campus total to 389 since August 24th.  The number of students in quarantine on campus remains at 54, the 100 students who tested positive, are in isolation on campus, they will be required to stay on campus until their quarantine is over.

Broome County Public Health updated their latest COVID 19 numbers today, they report 1236 total cases since March, with 79 deaths, 1091 recoveries, 406 are being monitored by the Department, they have conducted over 43,400 tests.

Triple A & State Police are reminding Motorists of the beginning of their annual "School's Open Drive Carefully" Campaign.  Elizabeth Carey of the AAA of Central New York Comments about 3 things that people should remember during this pandemic changed school opening season:

(Elizabeth Carey 9-3-20)

State Police also remind motorists that it is illegal to pass school bus with flashing lights, and there has been an increase in that illegal behavior in recent years, & police agencies will be cracking down on that activity.

A.M. NEWS THURSDAY 9-3-20

3 sites are open today in Oneonta for free rapid testing for COVID 19, following the outbreak at SUNY Oneonta.  The sites will be open Today through Saturday from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM at the Oneonta Armory at 4 Academy Street, The Foothills Performing Arts Center on Market Street & the St. James Church at 305 Main Street.  Testing is by appointment only by calling 833-NYSTRNG.

P.M. NEWS WEDNESDAY 9-2-20

Governor Cuomo announced that the state had an infection rate for COVID 19 under 1% for the 26th day in a row, with 708 cases or .8% out of over 88,000 tests, testing positive Tuesday. The total number of cases since March is at 436,218, there were 5 COVID-19 Deaths reported, the state death toll is at 25,336. The State Health Department reported 445 hospitalizations, 117 ICU patients and 61 patients on ventilators from the virus.

Chenango County Public Health released their latest COVID 19 numbers today. They have had 229 positive cases since March, with 4 cases active, 2 people are hospitalized, 78 people are in quarantine, they have had 7 deaths, 205 Recoveries & they have performed 23,189 tests.

Gyms & Fitness Centers around the state are re-opening with many safety protocols in place, Mike Banks of My Home Gym on State Route 7 between Sidney & Bainbridge told WCDO News what they are doing to keep everyone safe:

(Mike Banks 9-2-20)

Gyms & Fitness Centers were among the last businesses to re-opening in New York State after getting shutdown earlier in the year when the COVID 19 pandemic hit.

The Town of Masonville announced that tonight's board meeting, scheduled for 7:00 PM has been cancelled, no rescheduled date was announced.

A.M. NEWS WEDNESDAY 9-2-20

Otsego County Department of Health continues to investigate a large outbreak of Coronavirus involving SUNY Oneonta students, with 53 new cases were reported Tuesday, 50 of the cases were in SUNY Oneonta students, 2 cases in the community and 1 case in a Hartwick College student. SUNY Oneonta reportedly had 295 cases on Tuesday afternoon, the county now has 357 total confirmed cases, there are No hospitalizations.

P.M. NEWS FRIDAY 8-28-20

Governor Cuomo & the State Health Department are anticipating clusters of COVID 19 cases as college students return to campuses across the state.  The Health Department issued guidance that establishes a threshold, where if a college experiences 100 COVID cases or an outbreak equal to 5% of its student body, whichever is less, that college MUST go to remote learning for 2 weeks. If the local health department finds after the 2 week period, that the college cannot contain the number of cases, and then further remote learning could be required, the guidance for colleges is available at governor.ny.gov.

The State Health Department announced the latest state wide COVID 19 numbers, as they have now tested over 8 million tests, after testing over 97,000 on Thursday, which uncovered 636 new cases, there were 3 more death attributed to the virus, bringing the state death toll is up to 25,312.

A.M. NEWS FRIDAY 8-28-20

Otsego County Department of Health is investigating 7 new cases of coronavirus, 6 of the cases are SUNY Oneonta students. The other case has been associated with a gathering of high school students.  Currently there are 13 cases in SUNY Oneonta students and 5 cases in high school students. All cases are have been investigated and contacts are being notified.  Otsego County has 135 total confirmed cases, there are 21 active cases, and no one is hospitalized.

"Unite Chenango" will host a Black Lives Matter event at Kurt Beyer Park in Norwich tonight, 1 of the guest speakers is Reverend LaDana Clark of the 1st Presbyterian Church of Cooperstown, who served in the US Army and also served in the Plainfield New Jersey Police Department in a variety of roles in 2005 through 2011.  She told WCDO News that no one is suggesting that Police be eliminated, and she gave her ideas of what should be happening:

(Reverend Clark 8-28-20)

Tonight's event will begin at 6:00 PM; Reverend Clark also has a website related to her church activities at ChurchNTheHood.org.

P.M. NEWS TUESDAY 8-25-20

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

Chenango County Public Health released their latest COVID 19 statistics this morning.  They report that they are up to 223 total confirmed cases since March, there are 84 people in quarantine, 1 is hospitalized, there have been 7 deaths, 200 recoveries, & over 21,300 tests have been performed.

Oneonta Fire Fighters responded to a garage fire on Railroad Avenue at about 4:00 this morning.  Early reports indicated that there were 3 vehicles inside; WCDO NEWS will have more information as it becomes available.

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

A.M. NEWS Tuesday 8-25-20

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

P.M. NEWS MONDAY 8-24-20

Governor Cuomo held a COVID 19 update earlier today; he reported that guidance has been issued with regards to the High School Sports season:

(Cuomo 8-24-20)

The governor said that 408 tested positive out of more than 62,000 tests administered statewide on Sunday, giving the state a total of 430,135 total cases since March, hospitalizations were down to 482, the number of patients in an ICU went down to 122, the number of patients on ventilators was down to 54 & 7 people died from the virus Sunday, bringing the state death toll to 25,295.

Today is the day that Gyms & Fitness Center across the state may begin to re-open with a variety of special restrictions.  Jamey Mullen at the Norwich YMCA told WCDO News that while many of their services have been open all along, their fitness center is not open today & will take some time to be ready:

(Jamey Mullen 8-24-20)

Mullen said that members of the YMCA can get the latest information posted on their Facebook page.

Chenango County Public Health released their latest COVID 19 numbers today.  They have had 223 positive cases, with 85 Active Quarantines, 1 Active Hospitalization, 200 Total Recoveries, 7 deaths, and they have conducted over 21,200 tests.

Delaware County Sheriff's Deputies arrested 28 year old Corey Bateman of Binghamton following a traffic-stop on State Route 8 in the Town of Sidney Sunday afternoon.  Deputies observed a vehicle towing a camping trailer with improper license plates, it was determined that Bateman had a suspended driver’s license for failure to answer a summons in Broome County and for possession and/or sale of drugs.  Bateman was charged with aggravated unlicensed operation of a motor vehicle, unlicensed operator, improper plates, unregistered trailer, as well as improper brake light; he will appear in the Town of Sidney Court at a later date.

A.M. NEWS MONDAY 8-24-20

Governor Cuomo announced that the state had 572 new COVID 19 cases diagnosed Saturday statewide, giving New York over 429,700 cases since March.  There were 472 hospitalized for the virus, 110 were in an ICU, 50 were on ventilators, 5 more deaths were reported, including 1 in Broome County, bringing the state death toll to 25,288.

Representatives from Casinos across the state were rallying in Albany today, as they seek guidance from the Governor's Office & The State Health Department in order to re-open.   Todd Chandler is the Assistant General Manager & Regional Director of Marketing for Tioga Downs; he told WCDO News that they have taken all the precautions for reopening, and casinos are always under intense scrutiny:

(Todd Chandler 8-6-20)

Chandler said that if Tioga Downs does not reopen by October 1st, the furloughed employees would officially become unemployed.  About 5000 New Yorkers were employed at casinos prior to the beginning of the pandemic & the subsequent shutdown.

Governor Cuomo and the State Health Department announced the latest statewide COVID 19 numbers on Wednesday.  There were 601 new cases discovered Wednesday, about .78% of all those tested, which brings the state total to over 427,800.  There are 518 people Hospitalized, 120 are in an ICU, 62 are on ventilators, there were 5 deaths from the virus, the state death toll since March is 25,275

Chenango county Public Health released their latest COVID 19 numbers today.  They are still at 218 total cases & have been for several days, they report that there are 101 Active Quarantines, 1 current Hospitalization, 7 deaths, 199 Recoveries and over 20,270 tests have been administered.

Chenango County Public Health released their latest COVID 19 statistics today.  They remain at 212 cases, with 134 Active Quarantines, 1 Active Hospitalization, 189 Recoveries, 7 deaths & a Total of 17,454 Tests Performed.

Casinos, Racinos Gyms and several other businesses have still not been given the go-ahead to re-open, when the last regions of the state reached Phase 4 a few weeks ago.  Todd Chandler is the Assistant General Manager & Regional Director of Marketing for Tioga Downs; he told WCDO News that they have taken all the precautions for reopening:

(Todd Chandler 8-6-20)

Chandler said that they have invested heavily in every type of disinfecting equipment and gear for the facilities & staff; he said that if they do not reopen by October 1st, the furloughed employees would officially become unemployed.

Sidney Central School District Superintendent Eben Bullock announced that they received 481 responses which covers 830 students, to their survey, sent out to parents regarding what they are planning to regarding schooling their children this fall, , That amount covered a significant sample size of about 75% of the school population.  Bullock told WCDO News that the information compiled from the survey was sent to the state by in the district’s re-opening plan by last Friday’s deadline, he believes that there is room for many but not all students within the existing square footage in the district:

(Eben Bullock 8-3-20)

Governor Cuomo & the state education department, state health department will put together the guidelines for school districts around the state in the coming weeks.  The Sidney District plans to for virtual informational forums to be shared the week of August 10th.

Chenango County Public Health released their latest COVID 19 numbers today, they are up to 211 total cases, with 172 Active Quarantines, 1 Active Hospitalization, 188 Recoveries, 7 deaths and just under 17,000 test conducted.

Governor Cuomo unveiled the latest numbers regarding the Coronavirus.  There were 753 news cases diagnosed Thursday, bringing the state total to 410450, the number of people hospitalized was down to 650, there were 9 deaths on the state, bringing the total to 25,090.

Chenango County Public Health released their latest COVID 19 numbers today, they report 194 total cases since March, with 145 Active Quarantines, no Active Hospitalizations, 7 deaths, 168 Recoveries, and they have performed 15157 tests.  Isaiah Sutton of Chenango County Public Health said that a latest positive test showed that the individual was at 2 Norwich Bars recently, & ignored Pandemic protocols:

(Isaiah Sutton 7-24-20)

Sutton said that all of the local counties have been seeing increases again, largely due to larger summertime gatherings; he urges that people continue to practice socially distancing, wear a face mask properly & avoid large gatherings wherever possible.

The Broome County Health Department announced Friday that they are up to 906 positive cases of COVID 19, with 63 deaths, 695 recoveries and 610 are being monitored by the Health Department.

Chenango County Public Health released their latest Coronavirus numbers this morning; they report 188 total cases, with 142 Active Quarantines, no Active Hospitalizations, 168 recoveries, 7 deaths and over 14,600 Tests Performed.

School Districts across the state are trying to come up with plans to meet any scenario in order to teach for the 2020-21 school year.  Sidney School District Superintendent Eben Bullock told WCDO News that they have a survey for parents to fill out, in order to help establish plans:

(Eben Bullock 7-22-20)

The survey can be found at the Sidney central School district website, Facebook page or twitter page. It can also be accomplished by phone at 561-7703, the district would like to have those completed & back to officials by this Sunday.  School district will submit their proposals to the state by August 1st, and decisions will be made around August 7th.

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

(Kathy Connerton 7-7-20)

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

(Terry Potter 7-7-20)

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

Chenango County Public Health announced their latest statistics regarding the Coronavirus.  There have been 156 total cases, with 57 Active Quarantines, 6 deaths, 140 recoveries, no one is hospitalized.  They have conducted 12,150 Tests.

Chenango County Public Health announced their latest Coronavirus numbers today, they have 139 total cases, with 6 deaths, 1 person is hospitalized, 46 are quarantined, 127 have recovered. They have performed over 7800 tests.

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

(Vic Furman 6-17-20)

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

The Governor's office & County Board of Elections officials are working toward sending self-addressed stamped absentee ballots to registered voters for the June 23rd Primaries and possibly for the November General Elections, Secretary to the Governor Melissa DeRosa  explains:

(Melissa DeRosa 5-6-20)

Also, at today’s Coronavirus briefing by Governor Cuomo, the governor revealed that the State will be working with former Google CEO Eric Schmidt on a possible reworking of the future of education with remote learning with technology; Schmidt discussed that with the Governor by Teleconference today:

(Eric Schmidt 5-6-20)

Governor Cuomo also said that the re-opening by region in phases will be flexible, based on the latest data & the businesses models drawn up by individual businesses:

(Cuomo 5-6-20)

Governor Cuomo said that the Re-Opening is expected to begin when "New York on Pause" ends May 15th.

There will be a free milk giveaway on Thursday, starting at 11:00 am, at the Unadilla Elementary School, Unatego Middle/High School and the former Otego Elementary school parking lots, Unatego School District teacher Sandra Bonczkowski told WCDO News how it came about:

(Sandra Bonczkowki 5-6-20)

The milk giveaway is open to anyone, while supplies last Thursday morning.

Chenango County Public Health announced their Latest Coronavirus Numbers today.  They have 100 Confirmed cases, with 47 quarantined, 4 Hospitalized, 77 recoveries & 4 deaths.