Otsego County Department of Health & the CDC recommends that everyone who is not fully vaccinated to contact their Health Care Provder & complete the polio vaccination series as soon as possible, especially children. In Otsego County, only 80.4% of 2 year olds are recorded as having the recommended doses of polio vaccine, locally, Delaware County has a vaccination rate of 89.4%, and Schoharie County 88.8%. So far, 8 polio cases are being investigated in Rockland, Sullivan and Orange Counties.

——————————————————

The 7th Annual Binghamton Porchfest returns this Sunday, from 12:00 noon to 7:00 PM. Porchfest invites thousands of community members each summer for a free afternoon of live music performed from the residential porches, stoops, this year 165 local and regional bands and 59 host locations will participate. Food vendors and restroom locations will be set up and a free shuttle service is available throughout Binghamton’s West End neighborhood.

——————————————————

The State Office of Cannabis Management announced that the State has begun accepting applications for the first adult-use cannabis retail dispensary licenses. The 1st legal retail dispensaries will be operated by those most impacted by the enforcement of the prohibition of cannabis, and those first sales will be made with products grown by New York farmers. New York’s recreational cannabis market is expected to reach $4.2 billion by 2027 and to create up to 60,000 jobs.

——————————————————–

The J/C Cruise In Car Show will be held at the Unadilla Drive In Saturday, from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM. trophies will be awarded in a variety of categories, more information is available at 845-332-4144.

——————————————————

The Broome County Health Department reports a continuing increase in Overdoses in 2022, with 54 fatal overdoses & 333 Non fatal overdoses from January to this week. Broome County had as many as 76 fatal overdoses in 2016, the number was down to 32 in 2018, but the number of cases has increased every year since, with 54 last year. More information is available at gobroomecounty.com/boac.

——————————————————-

A.M. NEWS FRIDAY 8-26-22

Delaware County Public Health’s Children & Youth with Special Health Care Needs program is sponsoring Art in the Park, hosted by The Oneonta World of Learning, tomorrow from 1:00 pm to 4:00 PM, at 167 Youngs Road in Oneonta. More information is available by calling Oneonta World of Learning at 607-353-9503.

———————————

3rd Annual Windsor Partnership Corn Festival & Tractor Show will be held tomorrow at Klumpp Park in Windsor. The event runs from 12:00 Noon until 5:00 PM, admission is free, but a canned good donation will be accepted for Windsor’s Human Development Food Pantry, more information is available at WindsorPartners.org.

——————————–

A joint investigation with State Police Investigators at Sidney and Binghamton has led to the arrest of 32-year-old James Blackman of Afton. Troopers received a report accusing Blackman of inappropriate behavior with children, the investigation revealed that Blackman allegedly raped and sexually abused 2 children under the age of 11 on multiple occasions in Chenango County. Blackman was charged with 2 counts of Predatory Sex Assault Against a Child, 4 counts of Criminal Sex Act, 2 counts of Sex Abuse, and 2 counts of Endangering the Welfare of a Child. Blackman was arraigned and remanded to the Chenango County Jail.

——————————————-

Helios Care will hold their annual Daffodil Jazz Brunch fundraiser Saturday in Franklin, Helios Care Spokesperson Alicia Fish explains:

(Alicia Fish 4-26-22)

More information is available at helioscare.org/daffodil, or by calling 432-6773.

———————————————

Hartwick College is sponsoring the “Hawks Town Fever” street fair in Oneonta this Saturday, from 1:00 to 5:00 PM On Main Street between Chestnut Street and Ford Avenue. The event will include carnival games, zip lines, live music, food trucks, The event is free and open to the public.

———————————————–

The Oxford Village Tree Board will be holding its 35th “Tree City USA” Arbor Day Celebration on Saturday at 9:00 am at the LaFayette Park bandstand. Plans include a proclamation, Tree City USA flag presentation, and a giveaway of seedling evergreen trees and a variety of seedling shrubs. More information is available at treeboard.oxfordny.com or (607) 843-2512.

———————————————

SUNY Broome is holding their Spring Open House this weekend on Saturday from 9:00 AM to 12:00 Noon at the SUNY Broome Ice Center. SUNY faculty and staff will be present to talk to prospective students & their families, Registration is required at sunybroome.edu/open-house

————————————————–

“Beatles For Sale” will play at the Bainbridge Town Hall Theater Saturday Night, the Doors open at 6:00 pm. Tickets will be available at the door or reserve at 607-288-3882. Also, The Fine Arts Show will be featured in the gallery, more information is available at jerichoarts.com.

————————————————–

A State DEC patrol caught 30 teenagers holding a party with alcohol on Friday, April 22, at the Charles Baker State Forest in Sherburne. The group included teens ranging in age from 15 to 19 years old, including an unidentified 18-year-old from Norwich, who allegedly had 3 cases of beer, who was charged with underage possession of alcohol in a State Forest.

A.M. NEWS FRIDAY 4-29-22

The HALos Board of Directors announced their Open House at their facility at 146 Main Street in Afton tomorrow, Spokesperson Joyce Humphrey comments:

(Joyce Humphrey 4-26-22)

More information about HALos is available by calling (607) 639-4256.

———————————————-

Broome County Health Department is encouraging County residents to Shed the Meds during Saturday’s National Prescription Drug Take Back Day. The DEA Take Back Day encourages people to get rid of expired & unwanted prescription medication properly, before they can get into the wrong hands, or into the waste stream. Residents will be able to dispose of the meds at the Broome County Health Department in Binghamton.

———————————————–

The State Department of Transportation is advising motorists that starting Today, eastbound traffic on I-88 will be crossed over to the westbound lanes from just west of Exit 19 in Worcester to Exit 21 in Richmondville. The crossover will result in one lane of travel in each direction, the on-ramp at Exit 20 eastbound will close, followed by the westbound off ramp at Exit 19. The crossover and ramp closures are expected to be in place for approximately 5 months. Motorists are urged to slow down and drive responsibly in work zones.

——————————————-

The Broome County District Attorney’s Office announced 29 year old Corey Carney of Conklin was sentenced to serve 7 years in prison for attempted burglary. On October 14th 2021, Carney unlawfully entered an apartment on Louisa Street in Binghamton with two other males and attempted to steal property. Carney is also facing 5 years of post-release supervision.

———————————–

The State Police BCI Unit seized methamphetamine, illegal firearms and weapons from a home in the town of Union earlier this week. On Sunday, Troopers were dispatched to an argument with “shots fired” on Spring Street. 20 year old Carson Vanco of Endicott, was in possession of an assault rifle, a disguised homemade gun, brass knuckles, plus methamphetamine and components to make methamphetamine. Vanco was charged with 4 counts of Criminal Possession of a Weapon, manufacturing Methamphetamine, Criminal Possession of a Firearm, Criminal Possession of Stolen Property, he was arraigned & was remanded to the Broome County Jail without bail.

——————————————————–

NYSEG will be raising electric & natural gas rates starting this Sunday, after a rate increase request was approved by the Public Service Commission, who authorized the 3-year rate hike plan in November 2020. NYSEG’s customers will pay more than $43 annually in higher electricity bills, their gas customers will pay about $14.40 more per year.

————————————————–

Broome County Leaders & the Broome County Health Department are encouraging Broome County residents to help Shed the Meds during Saturday’s National Prescription Drug Take Back Day. The DEA Take Back Day encourages people to get rid of expired & unwanted prescription medication properly, before they can get into the wrong hands. Residents will be able to dispose of the meds at the Broome County Health Department.

————————————————–

The Jericho Arts Council Regatta Row display of Adirondack chairs and the new “Story poles” will be on the streets of Downtown Bainbridge for the next several weeks, organizer Rachel Hares explains:

(Rachel Hares 4-27-22)

The chairs & poles will be Auctioned off on Saturday May 28th at General Clinton park during this year’s Canoe Regatta, the money raised will go the Jericho Arts Council to support future exhibits and activities, more information is available at 607-643-2211.

——————————————————————-

Fergie Jenkins and Ozzie Smith will be the managers On May 28th at Cooperstown’s Doubleday Field, for the Hall of Fame Classic legends game. The Classic will feature a 8 Hall of Famers, in the 12th edition of the popular seven-inning contest at Doubleday Field. Tickets are on sale by calling at 1-888-325-0470 or at baseballhall.org/hofclassic. Less tickets will be available due to the ongoing renovations at Doubleday Field.

A.M. NEWS WEDNESDAY 4-27-22

State Police responded to a Mercy Flight Helicopter crash in the town of Elba in Genesee County Tuesday afternoon at around 1:00 PM. Mercy Flight Bell 429 helicopter was on a training mission during the time of the collision. Mercy Flight pilot, 60 year old James Sauer of Churchville 60 year old Stewart Dietrick of Prosper, Texas were pronounced deceased at the scene. The FAA and the National Transportation Safety Board will be assisting in this investigation. The investigation is continuing into the cause of the accident.

—————————————————

Dr. William LeCates will leave his position as president and chief operating officer of Bassett Medical Center and northern region executive for Bassett Healthcare Network, His last day will be April 30. LeCates has been a physician for 20 years, LeCates will remain on Bassett’s medical staff and serve as an advisor to Bassett President & CEO Dr. Tommy Ibrahim.

—————————————————–

Otsego Express announced that, with help from Otsego County, public transit will be free for 6 months, starting May 1st. All passengers can board Otsego Express buses without paying a fare, as an alternative to rising gas prices. Otsego County is funding this program with Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act.

——————————————————

This Year’s General Clinton Canoe Regatta will be held from Friday Night to Sunday Night on Memorial Day Weekend, Regatta Chairman John Harmon told WCDO news about the change this year:

(John Harmon 4-15-22)

Also, the next class of 2 contributors & 4 paddlers will be inducted into the General Clinton Canoe Regatta Hall of Fame next month in Bainbridge. Hall of Fame Committee Chairman Greg Davie told WCDO News about this year’s Inductees:

(Greg Davie 4-15-22)

The inductees are scheduled to be honored at General Clinton Park on Saturday, May 28th at 1:00 pm under the Main Entertainment tent at General Clinton Park during this year’s Regatta.

—————————————————-

The Delaware County Chamber of Commerce held their 3rd Friday Eat & Meet breakfast in Hamden today, With Featured Speaker Katie Blaine of GetThere New York, a program of the Rural Health Network of South Central New York, Blaine told WCDO News of new programs to go along with existing programs to get Delaware County Peiople transported to & from their Delaware County Jobs:

(Katie Blaine 4-15-22)

Delaware County Chamber of Commerce President Ray Pucci commented:

(Ray Pucci 4-15-22)

GetThere seeks to improve transportation access and coordination in the region. Those who would like to volunteer, can call 855-373-4040.

———————————————

The Norwich Downtown Revitalization Initiative’s Local Planning Committee Meeting announced a 4th meeting will be held virtually on ZOOM on Monday, April 25th at 3:00 PM. The purpose of this meeting is to continue the Committee’s discussion and review of potential projects for inclusion in Norwich’s Strategic Investment Plan. The meeting is open to all members of the public, with time reserved at the end of the meeting for public comment. The ZOOM link can be accessed on the WCDO Facebook page.

———————————————–

The New York Cannabis Control Board approved the first batch of 52 adult-use cannabis cultivation licenses allowing already established hemp farmers to begin growing marijuana for recreational use. Approval for the farmers comes two months after Gov. Hochul signed legislation creating a new Conditional Adult-use Cannabis Cultivator license that ensures existing hemp growers would get first crack at getting seeds in the ground. The new conditional cultivator licenses are good for up to two years and will allow New York growers to manufacture and distribute cannabis flower products without holding an adult-use processor or distributor license, until June 1, 2023. A 45-day public comment period will begin on May 4 and then the board will review the regulations.

————————————————

The State Health Department reported rising coronavirus infections in the state appear to be driven by 2 new versions of the Omicron BA.2 variant, which has been driving up the state’s positivity numbers to 4.7% as of Thursday. The 2 new viruses are about 25% more contagious than previous BA.2 variant, which was more contagious than any previous variant of the coronavirus, One of the subvariants has a mutation that has been shown to help evade the body’s immune defenses. The severity of the 2 new strains is yet to be determined.

————————————————–

Chenango County Sheriff’s Deputies responded on Sunday to a residence on Knapp Road in the Town of Sherburne for a reported Shooting. Deputies located 39 year old Joseph Hubbard of Poolville, deceased inside of the residence from a gunshot from a rifle. There were also two other adults and children inside the residence at the time of the incident. The parties involved were known to each other. There is no danger to the public and all parties involved have been identified and the investigation is ongoing, with assistance from State Police.

A.M. NEWS FRIDAY 4-15-22

The Delaware County Chamber of Commerce is hosting their 3rd Friday Business & Breakfast event today in Hamden, the event will run from 8:30 to 10:00 AM at the Hamden Inn & Lounge.

———————————————

The annual Easter Egg Hunt will be held in Norwich this Saturday, in the East and West Parks downtown. Children up to age four will be let into West Park at 10 a.m. to search for eggs, and children between the ages of five and eight will be let into East Park at 10:30 a.m. All children must be accompanied by an adult.

—————————————————–

The American Red Cross continues to report the need for blood donations. A Blood Drive is being held in Sidney today from 12:00 Noon until 5:00 PM at the American Legion at 22 Union Street. Prospective Donors can make an appointment by downloading the Red Cross Blood Donor App, visiting RedCrossBlood.org or calling 1-800-RED CROSS.

——————————————-

The Broome County Health Department reports an increase in opioid overdoses in 2022 compared to numbers in the previous year. For the first quarter of 2022 there has been 21 suspected fatal overdoses and 147 reported non-fatal overdoses. In 2021 Broome County reported a total of 54 total suspected fatal overdoses and 516 reported non-fatal overdoses.

—————————————–

A WINTER STORM WARNING will be in effect tonight through Friday Afternoon, Local Meteorologist Rich Townsend told WCDO News what the storm is expected to do:

(Rich Townsend 2-24-22)

The Winter Storm Warning remains in effect through Friday at 4:00 PM. Governor Hochul directed State agencies to prepare emergency response assets in advance of the winter storm system.

—————————————————

Governor Hochul Announced the availability of $65 Million in Federal Emergency Home Heating Aid. Income qualifying households that have exhausted the available regular HEAP benefit and the first emergency benefit may now apply for a second round of assistance, provided they are facing either a heating utility shutoff, or an electric utility service disconnection that will impact their primary heating equipment. More information is available at otda.ny.gov.

—————————————————–

Delaware County Sheriff’s Deputies observed an SUV on Friday February 18th traveling 80 MPH in a 55 MPH zone on State Highway 17 in the Town of Hancock. Deputies stopped the vehicle and identified the driver as 19-year-old Albierys Connor of New York City. Further investigation revealed that Connor’s NY driver’s license had been previously suspended in the Bronx, Connor was charged with Aggravated Unlicensed Operation in the 3rd Degree and operating an Unregistered Motor Vehicle. Connor was released with an appearance ticket, returnable to the Town of Hancock Court at a later date.

————————————————-

Delaware County Sheriff’s Deputies observed a vehicle traveling on State Hwy 206 in the Town of Colchester on February 13th, with an expired inspection sticker. Deputies stopped the vehicle, they learned that the operator, Dustin Howe, had his driving privileges suspended for failing to answer previous summonses. Howe was charged with Aggravated Unlicensed Operation of a Motor Vehicle, Unlicensed Operator, Uninspected & Unregistered Motor Vehicle and Obstructed License Plate, Howe was released on Traffic Tickets, and is scheduled to appear in the Town of Colchester Court at a later date to answer for the charges.

————————————————

The Broome County Health Department reports that the number of COVID-19 cases has decreased in the past month. The Health Department reported that in 1 months time, active cases went from 1421 to 313 currently, and hospitalizations from the virus decreased from just over 1100 to 72 on Wednesday.

—————————————————

The Musical version of “AN OFFICER AND A GENTLEMAN” hits the stage tonight for the 2nd of 2 performances at the Forum Theater in Binghamton. Show Time is 7:30 tonight, tickets are available through Ticketmaster.

A.M. NEWS Thursday 2-24-22

2 of the owners of The Colonial in Binghamton have been arrested by Binghamton Police after an investigation that began in November. Yaron Kweller has been charged with 3rd degree Rape and Jordan Rindgen for criminal sale of a controlled substance. Binghamton Police expect another arrest in this case shortly, Kweller and Ringden were arraigned in Binghamton City Court and released.

——————————————————–

The City of Norwich DRI Local Planning Committee will hold An informational session for an Open Call for Project Proposals, virtually tonight at 6:00 PM. Projects submitted under this Open Call will be reviewed by the Norwich DRI Local Planning Committee to be considered for inclusion in the Norwich Strategic Investment Plan. Commerce Chenango CEO & President Kerri Green explains:

(Kerri Green 2-24-22)

Green said that the Projects submitted must be capital projects that can be implemented quickly and will transform the physical environment of downtown Norwich, more information is available at NorwichDRI.com. The ZOOM Link for Tonight’s meeting can be found on the WCDO Facebook page.

—————————————————-

The Broome County Health Department announced that they have reached 400 deaths from COVID-19 since March 2020. The department reported that the peak month was January of 2021 when 86 people died from the virus. Currently, there are 778 cases of COVID 19 in Broome County, with 73 hospitalized, The deadliest month was January 2021, where the county reports 86 deaths from the disease. Currently, there are 778 active cases of COVID-19 in Broome County. 73 people are hospitalized. More than 24,200 positive cases have been reported since the beginning of the pandemic.

———————————————–

Delaware County District Attorney John Hubbard has announced the start of his campaign for Delaware County Judge in the 2022 election. The position will be on the 2022 ballot following the announcement of retirement by Judge Richard Northrup. Hubbard was elected District Attorney in November 2016 and was re-elected in 2020, he previously served as Chief Assistant District Attorney under Northrup for 10 years, after first joining the office in 2000 as an Assistant D.A.

————————————————–

The Cannabis Control Board today advanced regulations for public comment that will allow for the home cultivation of medical cannabis. The regulations follow the requirements of Marijuana Regulation and Taxation Act, allowing for up to three mature plants and three immature plants per person and a cap of six mature and six immature plants within any private residence. They will now be subject to a 60-day public comment period. More information is available at cannabis.ny.gov.

—————————————————-

The US Attorney’s office announced that 35 year old Matthew Bormann of Sherburne pleaded guilty to possession of child pornography, in federal court this week. Bormann admitted that on March 12th, during a visit at his home from his United States Probation Officer, he possessed at least 3500 images and video files of child pornography on a cellular telephone he was prohibited from possessing under the conditions of his supervised release, following a 2014 federal conviction for possession of child pornography. Bormann will be sentenced for this 2nd conviction & for violating the terms of his probation on March 2nd 2022.

—————————————————————————-

Butterball has issued a recall on more than 14,000 pounds of ground turkey products after consumers complained of finding pieces of blue plastic embedded in their raw ground turkey. The items being recalled are the 2.5-pound “farm to family Butterball all-natural Ground Turkey” trays with a sell-by date of October 18th, and the 3-pound “Kroger Ground Turkey” trays with an October 17 sell-by date. The items were produced on September 28, & should be returned to the place of purchase.

A.M. NEWS FRIDAY 10-22-21

The FCC has adopted rules to establish 988 as the new, nationwide, 3-digit phone number for Americans in crisis to connect with suicide prevention and mental health crisis counselors. To ensure that calls to 988 reach the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline, area codes with a “988 Exchange, will need to transition to 10-digit dialing. Beginning THIS SUNDAY, in the 607 area, callers must dial 10-digits, the area code + telephone number, for all local calls, those who only dial the 7 digit phone number will not have their call completed, and a recording will remind the caller to hang up and dial again using the area code and the 7-digit number.

———————————————–

Bassett Healthcare Network will be hosting several flu and COVID-19 vaccine clinics in the upcoming weeks. The Delhi Health Center is holding a patient flu shot clinic today from 10 am. – noon. Appointments are required. Call 607-746-0550. Also, Bassett Family Medicine State Route 28 on Southside in Oneonta is holding vaccine clinics for established Bassett patients on Saturday, from 8:15 am. – 11:45 am., as well as on November 6th, & 20th. Patients may make an appointment by calling Oneonta Health Center 607-433-1790 or Bassett Family Medicine 607-431-1015.

—————————————————–

Saturday will be the 20ᴛʜ ᴀɴɴɴᴜᴀʟ ᴛʜʜᴇ ɴᴀᴛɪᴏɴᴀʟ ᴘʀʀᴇsᴄʀɪᴘᴛɪᴏɴ ᴅʀᴜɢ ᴛᴀᴋᴇ–ʙᴀᴄᴋ ᴅᴀʏʏ. Law Enforcement agencies nationwide will collect the unwanted medications at various locations and submit them for destruction; more information is available at takebackday.dea.gov.

————————————————–

Village of Bainbridge Officials announced that the former Great American building and property will be auctioned on 3:00 PM today on site at 51 North Main St., Bainbridge, by Manasse Auctions. More information is available at manasseauctions.com.

—————————————————–

Delaware County Board of Elections reminds voters that Early Voting begins tomorrow at the Board of Elections Office in Delhi. Early voting will be held from Saturday through Sunday October 31st, those who vote early can NOT vote on Election Day. More information is available at Delaware County Board of Elections at 607 832-5321

——————————————————-

The Chenango Arts Council presents “Till Death Investigations” a film about paranormal activities, this Sunday night at 7:00 PM at the Martin W. Kappel Theater, Arts Council Executive Director Alecia O’Neill explains:

(Alecia O’Neill 10-22-21)

O’Neill said that Till Death Investigations has their own series on YouTube of similar paranormal investigations; more information is available by calling 336-2787, or going to chenangoarts.org.

————————————-

Governor Cuomo will be interviewed by investigators Saturday by the State Attorney General’s Office regarding several allegations of sexual harassment and misconduct.  Cuomo acknowledge that he may make people uncomfortable but denied allegations of wrongdoing, many lawmakers have asked Cuomo to resign.

————————————————-

NY State of Health announced that more than 111,000 New Yorkers have newly enrolled in Qualified Health Plan or Essential Plan coverage since January.  In addition, since March 31, 2021, when NY State of Health implemented the American Rescue Plan Act insurance provisions, more than 140,000 New Yorkers are benefitting from the increased financial assistance available. Of these 140,000 enrollees, 121,000 are low or moderate income.

——————————————————-

The Susquehanna SPCA in Otsego County will host their Ribbon Cutting & Open House at their brand new facility Tomorrow about 1 mile north of the old facility on State Highway 28 in Cooperstown, Director Stacie Haynes told WCDO News that they did a lot of preplanning to get this new facility right:

(Stacie Haynes 7-16-21)

The open house runs from 10:00AM to 4:00 PM, tomorrow, Haynes said that they started moving into the new facility earlier this week, more information is available at 547-8111.

————————————————————–

The Ron Palmer Memorial Scholarship Fund concert fundraiser has been moved indoors to the Norwich American Legion on Sheldon Street in Norwich, due to expected wet weather.  The Concert is scheduled from 12:00 noon to 7:00pm, tickets can be purchased at the door for $20.00, the money raised from this, and future concerts will go for a scholarship for area students interested in studying music in college, more information about the scholarship or the fundraiser is available at 244-5481.

————————————————–

The Greater Binghamton Airshow is this weekend at the Greater Binghamton Airport on Saturday and Sunday, with the United States Air Force Flight Demonstration Squadron, known as “The Thunderbirds”.  The airshow runs from 12:00 Noon to 4:00 PM both days, more information is available at binghamtonairshow.com

A.M. NEWS FRIDAY 7-16-21

State Police arrested 49 year old Robert Coleman of McDonough and 43 year old Billie Harris of McDonough for Criminal Possession of a Weapon, after a trooper initiated a traffic stop, both Coleman and Harris were in possession of firearms; they cannot legally possess firearms since they have been previously convicted of a crime.  Both were arraigned, Harris was released on her own recognizance; Coleman was remanded to the Chenango County Jail on $10,000 cash bail or $20,000 bond.

————————————————————–

The Unadilla Valley Central School District will host a 5K run/walk at 9:00 AM tomorrow for 14 year old Cooper Hine, who is a Unadilla Valley 8th Grader, who was seriously injured in an ATV crash in New Berlin recently.  Another fundraising chicken barbecue and Chinese auction will follow at the South New Berlin Fire Department.  Hine has been hospitalized at the Upstate Medical center in Syracuse.

——————————————-

Delaware County Public Health will be conducting a Single dose Johnson & Johnson COVID-19 vaccination clinic on Saturday at the Bloomville Fire Department, on Scotch Hill Road from 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM.  The vaccination clinic is open to people over the age of 18, No appointment or pre-registration is needed, and more information is available by calling Delaware County Public Health at 607-832-5200.

———————————————-

The Chenango County Relay For Life will be held on Saturday from 3:00 to 6:00 PM, at the East Main Park in Downtown Norwich.  More information is available on the Relay For Life Chenango County Facebook Page.

———————————————————

The 45th Annual Deposit Lumberjack Festival runs today & tomorrow, activities include games, rides, a firework show, live music, parades, and the professional lumberjack competition.  The Festival will also host a mobile vaccination clinic, which is in partnership with the Broome County Health Department; more information is available at the Deposit Lumberjack Festival’s Facebook page.

——————————————————

The Greater Oneonta Historical Society will hold a Summer Walking Tours this Sunday, July 18th at 2:00 PM.  More information is available at the Society’s Facebook page or oneontahistory.org.

———————————————-

2 men arrested for 4 gas station robberies in the same day in April of 2020 were sentenced in Otsego County Court.  42 year old Bryan Ruple was charged with Burglary & robbery & was sentenced to 7 years in jail in a plea bargain arrangement, and 41 year old Derrick Gray, 41, was charged with robbery and attempted robbery, he was sentenced to 2 1/2 to 5 years in prison, in Otsego County Court.

———————————————————-

Commerce Chenango will host the “Talent Pipeline & Population Recovery Summit” tomorrow, it a virtual event with a variety of discussions regarding the local work environment after the pandemic, Commerce Chenango CEO & President Kerri Green explains:

(Kerri Green 5-11-21)

More information is available at Commerce Chenango.com

—————————————————

Otsego County Health department reported their 61st death from COVID 19 Monday & 9 new cases.  Otsego County reports 57 active cases, 8 are hospitalized They have had a total of 2388 cases since the pandemic started & 42 of the 61 deaths have occurred since January 1st.

————————————————————–

Chenango County Public Health reported 3 new COVID cases today, they have 71 Active Cases, 261 Active Quarantines & 6 are hospitalized. They have had 3369 COVID cases.  Chenango County reported 2 more COVID deaths this morning, bringing their total to 76.

———————————————————–

The State Health Department conducted almost 100,000 tests for COVID Monday, with over 1500 testing positive, for a 1.52% positivity rate.  Total COVID hospitalizations are at 2,026, the lowest amount since last November; there were 32 COVID related fatalities statewide Monday.

——————————————————–

Governor Cuomo announced on Monday that SUNY and CUNY students must be vaccinated before they can return to in-person classes in the fall, The Governor is also calling on private universities to do the same.

———————————————————–

The New York State Sheriffs’ Association elected Delaware County Sheriff Craig DuMond as Secretary of the New York State Sheriffs’ Association.  Sheriff DuMond will work with Sheriffs around the state to further the efforts of the Sheriffs’ Association to enhance public safety in New York State through professional training and accreditation programs, public safety programs, and advocacy.

———————————-

Otsego County Sheriff’s department arrested an inmate at the Otsego County Jail on 19 counts of criminal contempt.  33 year old Tadd Sherwood is accused of repeatedly contacting the protected party that had an order of protection against him, while he was an inmate at the County Jail. 

—————————————————————-

Jeff Idelson has been appointed as Interim President of the Hall of Fame through August 15, 2021. Idelson, who served as the Hall of Fame’s President from 2008-2019, begins in this role on Saturday, May 15.   Hall of Fame President Tim Mead announced that he would be leaving the organization this month, two years after succeeding Idelson in that role.

A.M. NEWS TUESDAY 5-11-21

State Police have arrested 41 year old Jeremie Hoyt and 43 year old Peleg Booth, both of Davenport on numerous charges after an investigation into child pornography.  On April 28, State Police, their BCI Unit and the Computer Crimes Unit executed a search warrant in the town of Davenport after a tip was received from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children.   Hoyt and Booth are accused of engaging in sexual acts with a child less than the age of 15, Hoyt is also accused of possessing and promoting images of child pornography.   Hoyt was arraigned & was remanded to the Delaware County Jail on $50,000 cash bail or $250,000 bond, Booth was arraigned & was remanded to the Delaware County Jail on no bail.  The investigation is on-going.

—————————————————————————-

New York State continues to see progress against COVID-19, as Hospitalizations Drop to 2,016 Sunday, The number of ICU Patients Drop to 493, & the number of Ventilators Drop to 301, The Statewide Positivity Rate is 1.43%, there were 27 COVID-19 Deaths in New York State Sunday.

—————————————————————————-

Delaware County Public health reported 11 new COVID cases for Saturday, Sunday & Monday out of 583 tested.  The number of active cases is 47, the number hospitalized is 6 & 55 are quarantined.

———————————————————–

Delaware County Sheriff’s Deputies stopped a vehicle on State Highway 10 Wednesday after observing it fail at the stop sign and traffic light.  48-year-old Charles Pieper of Walton was stopped, his State driving privileges were suspended, he was charged with aggravated unlicensed operation and failure to stop at a stop sign, and he was released to appear in the Town of Hamden Court on a later date.

———————————————————

The Binghamton Rumble Ponies Home Opener will be tonight at NYSEG Stadium against the Altoona Curve at 6:35 PM, Spokesman Jacob Wilkins said Players on this squad, could become household names in the Major leagues:

(Jacob Wilkins 5-11-21)

The Binghamton Rumble Ponies are teaming up with the Broome County Health Department and City of Binghamton to provide Covid-19 Vaccinations for fans Today through Sunday; Fans that get vaccinated at the Stadium will receive a complimentary ticket to a future Rumble Ponies home game of their choosing.

——————————————————————-

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

(Cuomo 4-26-21)

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

—————————————————–

Chenango County Public Health reported 3213 total COVID cases since the beginning of the pandemic & 57 since Friday. They reported 116 Active Cases today with 4 hospitalized and 494 Active Quarantines & 73 deaths.

——————————————————-

The Broome County Department of Health reported 120 new COVID cases with 2 more COVID deaths on Friday. Broome County has had a total of 333 deaths from the Virus; they have had 17,311 cases since the pandemic began.

———————————————————————

The Broome County Sheriff’s Department reported that on Saturday, on Prescription Drug Take Back Day, they collected 1,920 pounds of old & unused medications. The event is scheduled every year to keep the unused medications out of the waste stream, but also to keep them from getting into the wrong hands.

———————————————————————-

U.S. Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer is urging restaurant owners to apply for a $28.6 billion federal restaurant relief program. The restaurant grant program will let restaurant owners apply for funds to cover coronavirus-related losses; the maximum grant for per restaurant is $5 million.

——————————————————————–

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

A.M. NEWS MONDAY 4-26-21

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

————————————————-

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

——————————————————-

Delaware County Public Health reported 17 new COVID cases Friday out of 421 tested, they reported 108 active cases, 15 hospitalized & 219 quarantined.

————————————————

Sidney Town Supervisor Gene Pigford is calling a special public hearing regarding zoning laws. The public hearing will be on Thursday at 6:30 p.m. at the Town Hall Building located at 44 Grand Street, Sidney.

————————————————

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

—————————————————-

The Unatego Central School district will be asking for voter approval in May on a $27.8 million dollar building project, and a public ZOOM meeting is scheduled for tomorrow night, Unatego Superintendent Dr. Dave Richards explains:

(Dr. Dave Richards 4-14-21)

Dr. Richards said that the project would be paid for with 87.5% state aid plus a capital reserve fund, resulting in no tax increase to district taxpayers.  Voting on the project & The Unatego Budget, and all state school budgets, will be on May 18th.

—————————————————-

State Police at Deposit were dispatched to 2nd Street and Dean Street in the village of Deposit Tuesday evening for a report of a pedestrian struck by a vehicle.  The investigation revealed that a 68-year-old male was operating a Chevrolet SUV on Dean Street when he turned on to 2nd Street and struck a 78-year-old woman crossing the street.  The victim was transported to Wilson Hospital where she died from her injuries, the investigation is ongoing.

—————————————————–

Chenango County Public Health reported 11 new COVID cases today, with 114 Active Cases, 8 hospitalized & 352 Quarantines.  Chenango County has had 3018 Total Confirmed Cases of COVID since the pandemic began last year.

——————————————————–

A new targeted initiative to bring the vaccine to farmers and food producers was announced on Tuesday.   Farm workers needed to have better access to the COVID-19 vaccines, pop-up vaccination sites will come directly to farms and food production facilities, more information is available at governor.ny.gov.

———————————————————–

Broome County Health Department officials announced appointments for the Pfizer vaccine are available.  Appointments are available for this Thursday & Friday as well as Monday & Tuesday at the SUNY Broome Ice Center, Appointments are available at gobroomecounty.com/hd/coronavirus/vaccine or by calling 211.

—————————————————-

The Cooperstown Dreams Park announced that they will offer refunds to teams who declined  to participate in the summer tournament this year, as long as the request is submitted in writing by next Monday April 19th.  The park  announced that they were requiring players 12 and older to be vaccinated against COVID-19 before arriving, many teams & parents of expected participants  requested refunds & cancelled their participation, as some states where the players would be coming from, have not yet allowed children to receive COVID vaccines, making it impossible for them to get vaccinated before this summer’s tournaments.

A.M. NEWS Wednesday 4-14-21

The Murder Trial of Dylan Robinson of Oneonta has been postponed in Otsego County Court Today; due to a COVID outbreak at the detention center in Syracuse where Robinson is being held. Robinson is accused of murdering his father and then setting the house on fire in October of 2019 in Worcester, several others involved in the case have had their day in court.

———————————————-

The State Health Department released guidelines for High School Proms this year.  Starting June 1st, Capacity restrictions will be in place for indoor venues and catering halls, there will also be regulations regarding food service, buffets, social distancing of tables & even rules for live musical performers.  The list of guidelines is available at the state health department website.

———————————————-

The Otsego County Department of Health is holding a “1st Dose Only”   COVID-19 Vaccination today at the Otsego County Meadows Complex in Cooperstown.  This will be the MODERNA Vaccine, for individuals ages 18 and older, Registration can be found on the Otsego County Department of Health website.

———————————————-

The State Department of Health announced a COVID-19 vaccine clinic at AO Fox Tri Town Campus in Sidney on Thursday from 9:00 AM to 3:30 PM; appointments are available at 563-7080.

———————————————-

Delaware County Public Health reported 6 new COVID cases Tuesday, out of 274 tested, they have 17 hospitalized, 113 active cases and 203 quarantined.

———————————————

The State Department of Health has added hotel workers to the vaccine eligibility list, and they further refined which restaurant workers and hired drivers can get vaccines.  People added to the vaccine list include Restaurant employees, including workers in permitted soup kitchen and congregate meal programs, Restaurant delivery workers, Public-facing hotel workers & For-hire vehicle drivers.  More information is available at am-i-eligible.covid19vaccine.health.ny.gov.

—————————————————-

Chenango County Public Health has confirmed 10 additional Chenango resident deaths attributed to COVID-19 recently.  Officials reported that the total represents a culmination of weeks of record requests and reviews and not a sudden acute loss of life. The County now reports 63 deaths from the virus in the year since the virus was discovered in New York State.  Currently, the county has 64 Active Cases, 223 Active Quarantines & 8 Hospitalized. 

———————————————————

It’s been a year since the first COVID case was confirmed in New York State, Currently; Broome County has had a total of 14,451 positive cases, with 314 deaths. There have been over 13,300 recoveries.  Statewide, over 38 million have been tested for COVID, with over 1.6 million testing positive, there have been 38,660 deaths.

——————————————————————

NYSEG crews responded to power outages from last night’s high winds.  NYSEG reported that over 2000 Chenango County customers were without power last night for several hours, with much smaller outages reported in other area counties.   Most of the power in the local counties was restored by earlier this afternoon.

—————————————————

The Glimmerglass Festival announced today it will build an outdoor stage on the festival grounds, where it will present 4 operas between July 15th & August 17th.  Tickets go on sale March 31st; more information is available at glimmerglass.org.

A.M. NEWS TUESDAY 3-2-21

Chenango County Sheriff’s Office arrested 2 men Monday for possessing controlled substances in the Town of Otselic.  The Narcotics Division conducted a traffic stop on Coakley Road in the Town of Otselic, 31 year old Chad Youngs was operating a rental vehicle, without a license, Youngs was found to be in possession of 69 bags of heroin, methamphetamine, packaging material, and a digital scale. Youngs was charged with Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance, and 2 counts of Criminal Use of Drug Paraphernalia, A passenger, 30 year old Zachary Bumpus was also found to be in possession of methamphetamine. He was charged with Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance; both men were issued appearance tickets for Town of Otselic Court at a later date. 

——————————————————————

The next meeting for the General Clinton Canoe Regatta will be held this evening.  Volunteers are needed for a variety of items for this year’s event; tonight’s meeting will begin at 7:00 PM at Galaxy Bowl in Bainbridge.

—————————————————-

Delaware County Public Health reported 12 new COVID 19 cases Monday out of 126 tested; they have 98 active cases, 11 hospitalized & 366 in quarantine.  Delaware County has had 1534 cases in the year since COVID first was diagnosed in New York State.

——————————————————-

Delaware County Sheriff’s Deputies stopped a vehicle for traveling 80 miles per hour in a 55 miles per hour zone Friday in Hancock.   The driver of the vehicle was 60 year-old Lisanne Swim of New Milford, Connecticut, a routine inquiry of State DMV records revealed that Swim’s Driver’s License was revoked in 2009 as a result of an alcohol related offense. Swim was charged with aggravated unlicensed operation of a motor vehicle and speeding; she was released & will appear in the Hancock Town Court on a later date.

———————————————————————-

A 3rd woman has come forward & claimed that Governor Cuomo made unwanted advances to her at a September 2019 wedding.  33 year old Anna Ruch told the New York Times about the incident; State Attorney General Letitia James is already investigating 2 other reports that former aides to the Governor were sexually harassed by him.

Another Winter Storm could leave some precipitation behind locally through early Friday, Meteorologist Rich Townsend commented:

(Townsend 2-17-21)

The National Weather service has a Winter Storm Watch in effect for much of the WCDO listening area through 1:00 PM Friday.

—————————————————-

Delaware County Officials announced that Delaware County Public Health has vaccinated 613 people and will continue to vaccinate 1B essential workers. This week, Public Health began vaccinating people 65 and older with comorbidities; People over the age 65 can call the Delaware County Office for the Aging at 832-5750 to schedule an appointment.  Vaccines will continue to be available for people over 65 at pharmacies, call your local pharmacy and check websites to see when they will be receiving vaccine. More information is available through the “Ami I Eligible” App or through health.ny.gov.

—————————————————————-

Chenango County Public Health added 1 new COVID- 19 case today, bringing their total to 2328.  They have 59 active cases, a decrease of 16, 206 quarantines, a decrease of 39, and 14 are hospitalized, a decrease of 5.

——————————————————

Broome County Executive Jason Garnar reported today that the U.K. variant of the coronavirus has been found in Broome County.  The County has experienced over 13,100 positive COVID 19 cases since the start of the pandemic with 300 deaths & over 12,600 recoveries.

——————————————————-

Governor Cuomo today announced $4 million is being awarded through the Climate Resilient Farming Grant Program to help 80 farms across the state reduce their environmental footprints and prepare for extreme weather events resulting from climate change. The projects selected will reduce greenhouse gases by an estimated 90,000 metric tons of CO2 per year, or as much as eliminating nearly 20,000 cars from the road.  Locally, Otsego County Soil and Water Conservation District was awarded $87,347 to assist 2 farms, & the Chenango County Soil and Water Conservation District was awarded $175,715 to assist 3 farms.

——————————————————

Delaware County Sheriff’s Office announced that an Oneonta taxi driver has been arrested for soliciting sexual acts in exchange for the cab fare Thursday evening.  Deputies responded to Treadwell to investigate a report of an individual being solicited by a taxi driver, 40 year-old Jeremy Wilcox of Oneonta was charged with 1 count of patronizing a person for prostitution, he was issued an appearance ticket and was released to appear in the Town of Franklin Court to answer the charge on a later date.

——————————————————————-

Governor Cuomo announced today that indoor family entertainment center can open March 26th, Outdoor Amusement Parks can open April 9th. There will be a 25% Capacity Limit in Indoor Centers and Amusement Centers; 33% Capacity Limit in Outdoor Amusement Parks, all must Submit Reopening Plans with Health Protocols to their Local Health Department.  Face Masks & Social Distancing will be required for Customers and Staff; Health Screening with Temperature Checks Required for All Customers Prior to Entry.  Day and Overnight Summer Camps Can Begin to Plan for Reopening; the State Department of Health Will Issue Guidance in the Coming Weeks.

A.M. NEWS Wednesday 2-17-21

The State Health Department reported that a case of the South African COVID-19 virus variant has been found in New York. A Connecticut resident who is a patient in a New York City hospital has tested positive for the South African variant. There is no evidence of any spread in New York State to date, New Yorkers should continue to wear face masks, remain socially distant and wash hands often.

—————————————————

Delaware County Public Health reported 13 new COVID 19 cases out of 120 tests Tuesday.  They report 132 active cases, 23 hospitalized & 274 quarantined. 

——————————————————————

The Village of Sidney will be having a Police Reform & Reinvention Collaborative Committee meeting by Zoom tonight at 6:00pm, where they will discuss the results of a recent citizen’s survey regarding the Sidney Police Department.  Sidney Mayor Andy Matviak explains their timeline:

(Andy Matviak 2-17-21)

The information for the Zoom meeting will be on our Village website at Village of Sidney.org or at the Village of Sidney Facebook page.

=================================================

Governor Cuomo said that there was some bad news today, as the federal government will be shipping out less COVID Vaccines than last week:

(Cuomo 1-15-21)

The state tested a record 324,000 plus people Thursday, with 19,935 positive tests, for a 6.1% positivity rate.  Over 8800 are hospitalized, over 1500 patients are in ICU beds & 962 are on ventilators, there were 183 deaths.

——————————————-

Chenango County Public Health reported that they are up to 30 deaths from COVID 19 since last spring.  They have 227 active cases with 25 hospitalizations & 548 are quarantined, their total number of new cases is 31, the total number of cases is up to 1612.

————————————————

The Otsego County Department of Health reported another potential COVID 19 exposure, at the 6th Ward Athletic Club, at 22 West Broadway in Oneonta, where a bartender tested positive for COVID-19.  Anyone who visited the bar on Saturday January 9th between 12:00 Noon to 6:00 PM or Sunday January 10th from 12:00 Noon until 8:00 PM should monitor for symptoms for 14 days, those who develop symptoms should get tested and isolate immediately.  The 6th Ward will close today to clean and disinfect & they will open when it is safe to do so.

—————————————————-

The Broome County Health Department went over 10,000 total cases of COVID 19 this week, reporting 204 deaths 8270 recoveries & over 2800 are being monitored.  A Drive Through Testing site is available for ALL New Yorkers at Binghamton University; appointments are requested at 888-364-3065 or at covid19screening.health.ny.gov.

————————————————–

State Police conducted an Underage Drinking Initiative in Otsego County Wednesday & they reported that all 14 establishments were in compliance.  Establishments were located in Worcester, Schenevus & Oneonta.  During the Initiative, retail establishments are checked utilizing a trooper in plain cloths and one or several underage operatives who cannot lie about their age or give a fake date of birth & show their real ID.

———————————————-

Oneonta City Police Department Chief Douglas Brenner will be retiring from the force after 4 years as chief & 15 years with the department.  Lieutenant Chris Witzenburg, will serve as interim chief until a new chief is appointed later this year.

A.M. NEWS FRIDAY 1-15-21

State Police arrested 38 year old Jesse Nickerson of Harpursville for Criminal Sex Act. Nickerson was arrested after an investigation revealed that he had sexual contact with another person less than the age of 15. Nickerson was arrested, processed then transported to Broome County Central Arraignment and Processing. 

———————————————————————————-

The Otsego County Health Department announced that there was a potential exposure to COVID 19, as several new cases are linked to a Cornhole tournament at the VFW in Schenevus on or around January 2nd.  The period for monitoring symptoms has passed. It is important to note that if you attended or know someone who attended and are symptomatic you should isolate yourself and be tested.  More information is available at 547-4231.

————————————————————————————-

Delaware County Public Health reported 15 more new cases of COVID 19 Thursday, they report 11 hospitalizations, 168 active cases & 314 are quarantined.

————————————————————————————-

Governor Cuomo held a COVID 19 briefing today in Albany, he said that the Hospitals need extra help in ramping up the vaccinations of 1A & 1B workers, starting Monday, they will get that help:

(Cuomo 1-8-21)

The Governor said that there were over 243,000 COVID tests administered Thursday, with over 18,700 positives, 8500 hospitalizations, over 1400 in an ICU & 912 on ventilators, there were 161 deaths Thursday from the virus.

———————————————————————-

Chenango County Public Health reported 7 news deaths form COVID-19 Thursday, bringing their death toll to 28, they had 36 new cases reported, bringing the total number of cases to 1393. Chenango County has 190 total cases, 15 are hospitalized, and 452 are quarantined.

———————————————————————

The Broome County Health Department continues to see an increase in COVID 19 cases, with more than 1100 new cases since start of the New Year. They are up to 9090 cases and 189 deaths from the virus, 58 of the deaths have come since the end of November. The county has had over 7400 recoveries and they are monitoring over 220 people.

——————————————————————

Bainbridge Guilford School Superintendent Tim Ryan is holding a Zoom Meeting with parents today, regarding how the school district is dealing with the uptick in Chenango County COVID cases, he told WCDO News that their hybrid model seems to be working well:

(Tim Ryan 1-8-21)

Ryan said that they have had 4 students recently test positive, 2 of those were remote only students & they did not expose anyone in the school itself.

———————————————

Governor Cuomo announced that New York has administered approximately 430,000 vaccine doses, New York hospitals had previously jumped from administering an average of 10,000 doses per day to approximately a high of 50,000 per day on Wednesday & Thursday. Hospital staffs are in the first phase for getting the COVID 19 vaccines.

—————————————

A new session of Congress is underway but the seat for the New York 22nd District in the House of Representatives remains empty. Oswego County Supreme Court Justice Scott DelConte continues to review challenged ballots, the most recent tally had Republican Claudia Tenney with a slim lead over incumbent Democrat Anthony Brindisi, there will be no Representative in the 22nd district until Judge DelConte renders a final decision on the disputed ballots.

———————————————

State Comptroller Tom DiNapoli is urging New Yorkers to read the fine print for details about fees and expiration dates, and to spend the gift cards in a timely fashion. If gift cards expire, the money would get turned over to the Office of Unclaimed Funds. New Yorkers should visit osc.state.ny.us to see if they are owed money from unused Gift cards or for other reasons. The state currently has 16 Billion Dollars in unclaimed funds.

A.M. NEWS FRIDAY 1-8-21

Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer is demanding President Donald Trump be removed from office immediately following a violent protest in Washington D.C. Wednesday.

(Schumer 1-8-21)

5 people were killed, many were injured & there were over 50 arrests after rioters supporting President Trump breached the US Capitol building to defy the election results as members of congress validated the electoral votes Wednesday.

———————————————————-

Governor Cuomo released statistics regarding Wednesday’s statewide COVID 19 tests; over 238,000 tests were conducted with over 17,600 positive, which was 7.39% of all tested, there were 8,548 Patient Hospitalizations Statewide with 1,424 Patients in the ICU; & 859 Intubated on ventilators, 197 COVID-19 Deaths were reported Wednesday.

—————————————————————–

The Sidney Central School District reported 2 new COVID 19 cases, they report 2 middle school students are presumed positive, they have not been on campus since Monday, January 4th. The Delaware County Health officials have conducted an investigation and the contact tracing has been completed. There will be no change to the instructional model at this time.

—————————————————————–

Delaware County Public Health reported another death from COVID 19, they have had 16 deaths. they had 24 new cases Thursday, with 5 now hospitalized and 237 quarantined.

———————————————————————-

Otsego County Department of Health reported 25 new cases of COVID Thursday, they have 16 hospitalized and there were 2 more deaths, bringing the County total to 20.

———————————————————————

Governor Cuomo directed State agencies to prepare emergency assets and assist local governments as needed as multiple storm systems are expected to impact locations throughout the state with snow, sleet and freezing rain through the holiday weekend.  Isolated power outages may also occur; NYSEG Officials announced today that they are getting crews ready to handle weather related issues.

————————————————————-

Chenango County Public Health continues to see an increase in COVID 19 cases, they reported 19 more active cases, giving them 150 current cases, Hospitalizations went down by 1 to 5, and Quarantines went up by 36 to 569.  Chenango County has had 536 of their 1179 cases in December.

—————————————————–

The Otsego County Health Department reported 33 new COVID 19 cases today, bringing their active total to 120, with 21 now hospitalized.  They have reported just fewer than 600 new cases in December with 9 of their 17 reported deaths occurring since December 1sst.

————————————————————-

The Broome County Health Department continues to average almost 100 new cases of COVID 19 each day in the month of December, including another 137 reported today, The County has had a total of 7959 cases since the Spring, 2646 of them have been reported since the beginning of the month, County Health Department officials said that 45 of their 176 deaths have occurred in December, COVID hospitalizations have been hovering around 100 and 3 nursing homes continue to be COVID hotspots.

——————————————————————

A.M. NEWS THURSDAY 12-31-20

Governor Cuomo announced he is signing an Executive Order to extend the requirement that death benefits be paid out to families of frontline government workers for an additional 30 days. The legislation providing these benefits would otherwise expire Tonight, The Governor also announced that more than 200,000 New Yorkers have now been vaccinated with the first dose of the COVID-19 vaccine and beginning next week, New York will open vaccination criteria to ambulatory care health workers and public-facing public health workers, including those administering COVID-19 tests.

———————————————————–

Governor Cuomo announced Wednesday that the Buffalo Bills will have 6,700 fans in attendance when they host a 1st-round playoff game the weekend of January 9th & 10th.  Fans will be allowed in who are wearing masks and test negative before the game, there will also be contact tracing after the game, and that the game will serve as a pilot program for how the state can safely reopen large events.

——————————————————

Delaware County Public Health reported a 13th death from COVID 19 Wednesday.  The County had 15 new positive cases, 4 are hospitalized and 274 are quarantined.

——————————————————-

The Broome County Special Investigations Unit Task Force executed a narcotics search warrant at 296 Main Street in Binghamton and arrested 42 year old Bernard Barnes, 42 year old Cora Stevens and 35 year old Leroy Poole, all of Binghamton.  Investigators seized Cocaine, Fentanyl & drug packaging materials and about $1,400 in cash from alleged drug sales.  Barnes, Stevens and Poole were charged with several counts of criminal possession of a controlled substance, criminally using drug paraphernalia. Poole and Barnes were jailed while awaiting further court action and Stevens was released after Monday’s arrests.

———————————————————-