Anielle “AK” McEwan Lomnicki has been cleared to play basketball at the Gus Macker Tournament in Norwich next Month, AK suffered numerous injuries when she was struck by a drunk driver while walking home from school in Sidney February 15th, she told WCDO News that she is excited & ahead of schedule in her ongoing recovery:

(AK McEwan Lomnicki 6-23-23)

AK’s father, Rick Lomnicki said that they have been watching other people playing various sports, but watching his daughter compete after all she has been through will be exciting:

(Rich Lomnicki 6-23-23)

“AK” will be competing at the Norwich Macker July 8th & 9th on 1 of 9 WCDO sponsored teams, she also plans to play in the Ithaca Gus Macker tournament, and 2 other tournaments later this summer.

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High School Graduations are scheduled all over the Southern Tier this weekend. Hancock Commencement exercises began this morning, other districts with ceremonies today include Afton, Andes, Charlotte Valley, Deposit, Downsville, Edmeston, GMU, Laurens, Milford, Morris, South Kortright, Schenevus, Unatego & Windsor. Saturday Graduation ceremonies will include Sidney, Bainbridge Guilford, Norwich, Oneonta, Delaware Academy, Greene, Harpursville, Oxford Academy, Unadilla Valley, Sherburne Earlville & Walton. 2 area district will hold their ceremonies on Sunday, they are Cooperstown & Worcester.

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State Police today announced that Troopers issued 20,952 total traffic tickets during the special “Speed Week” traffic enforcement campaign, from Monday, June 12 to Sunday, June 18 Troopers issued 10,478 tickets for speeding, Statewide, 172 people were arrested for DWI, State Police also responded to 175 personal injury crashes, including two fatal crashes. At Troop C, officers issued 1567 tickets, with 927 for speeding.

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The State Comptroller’s Office audited the Afton Central School District, , they found that the Afton Board and District officials did not effectively manage the District’s fund balance, so they levied more taxes than needed to fund operations and were not transparent with taxpayers. The Board annually overestimated appropriations by an average of $1.1 million or 7%. The District incurred $63,561 in unnecessary interest and other associated costs for the issuance of bonds to purchase school buses. The Comptrollers office recommended adopting realistic budgets, Reduce surplus fund balance to comply with the statutory limit to benefit taxpayers. District officials agreed with our recommendations and indicated they will take corrective action, the full report can be found at osc.state.ny.us.

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State Police arrested 35 year old Heather Wrench of Coventry, for Criminal Possession of a Weapon, Grand Larceny & Petit Larceny, after a trooper and a Chenango County Deputy were dispatched to a report of a trespass on State Highway 206 in the town of Coventry. Wrench allegedly entered a vehicle and removed items, including a pistol, from a vehicle, she is also accused of trespassing several other area properties. Wrench was arrested and was remanded to the Chenango County Jail without bail.

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The Chenango County Historical Society will hold their annual Summer Barn Party fundraiser, to be held from 6:00 to 8:30 PM on Thursday, June 29 at 41 Rexford Street in Norwich. More information is available at (607) 334-9227.

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A.M. NEWS Friday 6-23-23

The Dick’s Open Golf Tournament Pro rounds begin today through Sunday at the En-Joie Golf Course in Endicott. The concert to be held their tonight features Country Music Star Kenny Chesney.

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Delaware County Public Health Services and Friends of Recovery- Delaware Otsego will be sponsoring a Science of Addiction and Recovery 1 day training on June 30, 2023 from 9am to 4pm at 84 Main St. Delhi. The deadline to register is June 23, 2023. For more information or to register, contact Kyle LaFever at (607) 376-4388.

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On Saturday at 2pm, the Greater Oneonta Historical Society will tour the Fairchild Mansion, which is now the Masonic Lodge at 322 Main Street. George Fairchild was a U.S. Congressman and the first chairman of the Board of IBM, he was also the founder of Fairchild Camera, Fairchild Aviation, and funded the founding of Fairchild Semiconductor. The tour is by donation and reservations are not required.

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Delaware County District Attorney’s Office announced that 36 year old Thomas Wright of Sidney was convicted of Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance with Intent to Sell in Delaware County Court this week. Wright was sentenced to 4 years in state prison, to be followed by 2 years of post-release supervision, he was remanded to the Delaware County Correctional Facility without bail, pending his transfer to State Prison. Wright was indicted with co-defendant Alexa Tefft, who previously pleaded guilty to Reckless Endangerment, During Tefft’s plea proceedings, she admitted to recklessly endangering the life of her 1-year-old child by permitting the baby to be near the methamphetamine that Wright was selling. Sidney Police are currently pursuing additional unrelated charges against Thomas Wright, if he is convicted of the new charges, he would face an additional consecutive state prison sentence.

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The State Labor Department announced that the number of private sector jobs in New York State decreased over the month by 25,700, or 0.3%, to 8.22 Million in April. New York State’s unemployment rate decreased from 4.1% in March to 4.0% in April, the labor force participation rate increased 1/10^th to 60.8% in April.

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The tickets sales are going well for the 1st Southern Tier Music Festival, to be held July 1st at the Sidney Airport, Ed Curley is one of the organizers of the event

(Ed Curley 5-18-23)

Curley said that anyone interested in getting the tickets for the show should go to Brownpapertickets.com

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The Sidney Chamber of Commerce will hold their annual dinner will be on Thursday June 1st at the Sidney Fire Hall, Chamber President Teri Schunk explains:

(Teri Schunk 5-18-23)

The Sidney Chamber will honor Dr. Rohan Jayasena as the Citizen of the Years, Waste Recovery Enterprises as the Business of the Year, Kyle Westcott for the Commitment to Community Award, and their will be a special recognition for Andy Matviak for his years served as Mayor of Sidney.

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The Broome County Special Investigations Unit Task Force executed search warrants in Binghamton Wednesday, resulting in the arrests of Valentino & Dominick Mondolfi. Investigators recovered methamphetamine, fentanyl, pills and over $8300 cash from drug sales, assault rifles and items used to prepare drugs from sale. Valentino Mondolfi was charged with 8 counts of Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance & 4 counts of Criminal Using Drug Paraphernalia, Dominic Mondolfi is charged with 3 counts of Criminal Possession of a Weapon. Both will face court action shortly

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Delaware County Public Health Services and Friends of Recovery- Delaware Otsego will be sponsoring a Science of Addiction and Recovery 1 day training on June 30, from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM at 84 Main St. Delhi, New York, to register for this course, contact Friends of Recovery Coordinator Kyle LaFever at (607) 376-4388. The deadline to register is June 23,

Commerce Chenango will hold another local Hiring Event today from 9:30 AM – 2:30 PM for students and 3:30 – 5:30 PM for adults. The event will take place at the High School on Midland Drive in Norwich. The Hiring Event is specifically for employers with immediate entry-level job openings, more information is available at 607-334-1401.

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(Rich Townsend 3-2-23)

So far there are no watches or warnings associated with this system, WCDO will have further updates as they are released.

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Broome County Sheriff Fred Akshar announced this afternoon the arrests of 3 inmates for having contraband in their housing pods at the Broome County Sheriff’s Correctional Facility this week. Investigators recovered crack cocaine, synthetic cannabis, & suboxone strips, they arrested 36 year old Dreyshawn McDonald for Criminal Possession Controlled Substance & Promoting Prison Contraband, 41 year old Ryan Carney of Endicott for Promoting Prison Contraband & 35 year old Paul reed of Endicott for Promoting Prison Contraband. This sweep was the latest in a series of investigations into narcotics, drug and contraband smuggling at the Correctional Facility, which have led to 9 arrests and dozens of charges since the beginning of the year.

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The Village of Sidney continues with their water system upgrade, with new water lines currently being constructed from a new water source, according to Sidney Mayor Andy Matviak:

(Andy Matviak 3-2-23)

Mayor Matviak also said that about 1000 water meters will be installed around the village as part of this project.

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The Broome County District Attorney’s Office announced that 37 year old Farrah Singleton of the Bronx, pleaded guilty in Broome County Court today to 3rd degree Burglary. Singleton admitted that he unlawfully a residence at 226 Court Street in Binghamton and stole property on September 1st 2021, he was arrested a week later by Binghamton Police, he will serve 2 1/2 to 5 years in prison when sentenced on May 4.

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ACHIEVE announced that they will be breaking ground at 96-100 East Main Street in Norwich, on March 10th. ACHIEVE’s Board of Directors voted to move their facility from their current location near the Canasawacta Country Club golf course down to former CWS Plant 5 building in Norwich. More information is available at achieveny.org.

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Delaware County Public Health Services and Friends of Recovery- Delaware Otsego will be sponsoring a Recovery Coach Academy, Ethical Considerations & Medicated Supported Recovery Training March 27th, 2023 – April 1st, from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM in Delhi The training is designed for individuals involved in the recovery initiation of others and/or in sustained recovery themselves who want to become a personal guide and mentor for people seeking or already in recovery. more information or registration is available by calling Kyle LaFever by phone at (607) 267-4435 or by email at Kyle@friendsofrecoverydo.org. The deadline to register is March 20th.

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The Binghamton Rumble Ponies announced that tickets are now on sale for the “Meet the Ponies” annual dinner on Tuesday, April 4th at the Downtown Holiday Inn in Binghamton. Tickets are available to purchase until April 1st online at bingrp.com, by calling 607.722.FUNN, or at Mirabito Stadium, The Rumble Ponies open the 2023 season on the road against the Portland Sea Dogs on Thursday April 6th, with the home opener on Tuesday, April 11th against the Somerset Patriots at 6:35 PM.

A.M. NEWS THURSDAY 3-2-23

The Otsego County Sheriff’s Office arrested 34 year old Ashley Williams of Laurens on 2 counts of Torturing or Injuring Animals/Failure to Provide Sustenance. Williams was arrested following an investigation into a report of loose horses in the road in the Town of Laurens on December 11th of last year. During the course of the investigation, it was found that Williams did not provided proper care for her animals, Williams was issued an appearance ticket returnable to the Town of Laurens Court for a later date.

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The Otsego County Sheriff’s Office arrested 20 year old Colin Leonard of Otego following an investigation of a personal injury motor vehicle accident in the Town of Oneonta. Leonard was charged with Driving While Intoxicated, Driving on the shoulder, Failure to keep right, Drivers view obstructed, and speed not reasonable & prudent among several other charges, he was issued appearance tickets returnable to the Town of Oneonta Court at a later date.

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Commerce Chenango’s Annual Economic Outlook Breakfast will be held this morning at 7:30 at the Canasawacta Country Club in Norwich. Key Note Speaker will be Ken Entenmann of NBT Bank, more information is available at commercechenango.com

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The State Department of Labor announced that the number of private sector jobs in the State increased over the month by 19,700, to just under 8 million in June 2022. The number is about 300,000 less than the highest number registered before the COVID 19 pandemic kicked in & the state closed down in 2020. The State’s unemployment rate held steady at 4.4% in June, following 5 consecutive months of decline.

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The Delaware County Chamber of Commerce will host a New York 19th Congressional Candidate Forum with a question and answer session featuring Republican candidate Marcus Molinaro and Democratic candidate Patrick Ryan. Both candidates are looking to fill the seat vacated by Antonio Delgado, who now serves as the New York Lieutenant Governor. The event will be held on August 4th from 6:30 to 8:00 PM at the Roscoe Beer Company Garden, on 145 Rockland Road. The special election will be held on August 23rd.

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Governor Kathy Hochul announced the opening of the initial intake tool to help small businesses determine their eligibility for the COVID-19 Capital Costs Tax Credit Program. The $250 million COVID-19 Capital Costs Tax Credit Program will support small businesses that made investments to comply with emergency orders and regulations or to increase public safety in response to COVID-19. If deemed eligible by the screening tool, a link to the application will be provided when the program application opens. The Screening Tool Available online at formrouter.apps.esd.ny.gov.

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Catholic Charities is offering free School Supplies & & Backpacks for children enrolled in the Sidney Central School District. Spokesperson penny McKnight explains:

(Penny McKnight 7-21-22)

Eligible families can Preregister at the Sidney Office of Catholic Charities in the Sidney Civic Center on Liberty Street, through August 12th, more information is available at 607-604-4071.

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The State Health Department reported a polio case, in Rockland County, it’s the 1st case of Polio in the U.S. in nearly a decade. Officials did not offer details yet on who the resident is, whether the person was vaccinated or their current condition. In 1979, polio was declared eliminated in the U.S., however travelers with polio have brought infections into the U.S., the case was in 2013.

A.M. NEWS THURSDAY 7-21-22

Friends of Recovery of Delaware and Otsego Counties announced that they have the first Narcan vending machine available locally. The vending machine offers Naloxone kits that with 2 doses of Narcan nasal spray, it is located at The Turning Point of Otsego County at 22 Elm Street in Oneonta.

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Amphenol Aerospace is hosting a recruitment fair at the Northeast Classic Car Museum in Norwich, NY on Saturday, August 20th. The event will run from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM, more information about job openings is available at amphenol-aerospace.acquiretm.com.

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Upstate Shredding’s Southern Tier Tuesday’s philanthropic team announced that Getthere Mobility Management is this week’s winner of a $2,000 grant. Getthere is a program from the Rural Health Network of South Central New York to get people to appointments who have no other way to get to them.

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Attorney General Letitia James announced that Cross Tie Disposal of Kentucky and company Vice President Harold Young are charged in a 42-count indictment that includes 30 counts of Falsifying Business Records and 11 counts of Endangering Public Health, Safety or the Environment. Cross Tie was supposed to dispose of old wood beams that were coated with creosote at a regulated site in Erie County but instead dumped the ties, contaminated with 11 hazardous substances at a property in Chenango County. The railroad ties have been removed as part of the Chenango County Industrial Development Agency’s Chenango County Rail Revitalization Services project in 2015 to repair and improve railroad tracks throughout the county.

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Governor Kathy Hochul’s administration has lifted a 3-month pause on a new law that will require nursing homes to meet minimum standards for staffing and patient care. The law creates minimum staffing ratios and requires that nursing home residents get at least 3.5 hours per day of direct nursing care, it was approved in 2021 in response to the nursing home crisis during the pandemic, when thousands of Nursing Home residents died from the virus.

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New York State has reverted to calling the “TASC” program back to it’s original name “GED”, for those interested in earning their High school Diploma, local Program director June White told WCDO News of the programs origins & of their current programs:

(June White 4-4-22)

White said that a home study course call “GRASP” is available for those who can’t attend classes in person, more information about the GED programs is available by calling White at the Afton Central School at 639-2811.

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Another Area Middle School student is heading to the National Spelling Bee in Washington in May, Martha Ryan of the DCMO Boces told WCDO News that local funds are needed to send Daanya Butt to DC:

( Martha Ryan 4-4-22)

Daanya Butt is a middle school student at the Oneonta Central School District, she recently won The Daily Star Spelling Bee, BG Student Melodie Loya went to the National Spelling Bee twice. More information is available by calling 334-7526.

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Delaware County Public Health & Friends of Recovery -Delaware Otsego announce Recovery Coach Academy & Ethical Considerations training next week in Delhi. Spokesman Kyle LaFever told WCDO News who they are looking for:

(Kyle LaFever 4-4-22)

LaFever said that the deadline to register is today, but that could be extended for the right interested candidate, the number to call for more information is 607-267-4435.

A.M. NEWS MONDAY 4-4-22

Fire destroyed 3 commercial buildings in Worcester Friday Night into Saturday Morning. The buildings were not occupied when the fire broke out, several area fire departments assisted Worcester Firefighters with the blaze. The cause of the fire is under investigation.

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The Otsego County Sheriff’s Office assisted the US Marshals in executing an arrest warrant in the Town of Maryland on 59 year old Michael Hawkins for failure to register as a sex offender. Hawkins was convicted in 1997 for child molestation in Rhode Island, he faces a maximum term of 10 years in prison, three years of supervised release and a fine of up to $250,000.

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Governor Kathy Hochul & the State Legislature failed to pass the state budget on time Friday. Negotiations over bail reform, to-go drinks and New York City casinos stalled the completion of the budget, If the budget isn’t passed today, paychecks for state government employees will be delayed, according to state Comptroller Tom DiNapoli.

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The 28th annual Colorscape Chenango Arts Festival will be held September 10th & 11th in East and West Parks in Norwich in Norwich. 95 exhibitors will be at the annual Arts Festival, organizers are also inviting all high school art seniors in Chenango and adjacent counties to apply for Colorscape’s 2022 Francis K. Wilcox Emerging Young Artist Scholarship. The application form is available at colorscape.org, The application deadline is June 17th.

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State Senator Fred Akshar was filing his petitions to run for the office of Broome County Sheriff at the Broome County Board of Elections office in Binghamton today. Akshar has collected over 3,100 signatures from registered Republicans in Broome County in support of his run for Broome County Sheriff, Akshar declined to run for re-election after serving in the State Senate for 3 terms.

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NYSEG reports that thousands were still without power this afternoon, following last night’s Thunderstorm & High Winds, Which knocked down trees & Power lines. NYSEG Crews were working to restore the power as quickly as possible, almost 10,000 were without power in the Tri-County Region this morning, the number was down to around 6600 by mid-afternoon.

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Delaware County Public Health Services and Friends of Recovery- Delaware Otsego will be sponsoring a Recovery Coach Academy & Ethical Considerations training, April 11th through April 16th from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM in Delhi. The academy is for individuals who want to become a personal guide and mentor for people seeking or already in recovery. For more information or to register by phone call (607) 267-4435. The deadline to register is April 4th, the location is expected to be announced shortly.

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The Susquehanna SPCA is collecting financial contributions to help animals in Ukraine and neighboring countries, by partnering with International Funds for Animal Welfare. To donate, go to sqspca.org/donate, Donations will be accepted through March 14th.

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Commerce Chenango announced that their annual Economic Outlook Breakfast will be held Tuesday, April 5th at 7:30 AM at the Canasawacta Country Club in Norwich. The Keynote speaker will be Economist Ken Entenmann. Members can register online at the Commerce Chenango website or by calling 607-334-1400 by March 29th.

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State Police Bureau of Criminal Investigation arrested 24 year old Austin Kuczek of Newfield for 2 counts of Disseminating Indecent Material to Minors, for allegedly sending inappropriate images to juveniles. Kuczek was formerly a member on the Newfield Town School Board and a teacher’s aide in the Ithaca City School District. He is currently the Recreation Director in the Town of Newfield, he was released on appearance tickets to the Newfield Town Court at a later date.

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The US Air Force Band will be performing a free concert in Oneonta next week, spokesman Gene Schmidt explains:

(Gene Schmidt 3-8-22)

Schmidt said that proof of vaccination is required for next Wednesday’s concert at Foothills.

A.M. NEWS Tuesday 3-8-22

The Otsego County Sheriff’s Office arrested 33 year old Felix Hartman of Unadilla for Burglary, 3rd degree assault, Attempted Rape, forcible touching Stalking & Criminal Impersonation for an incident in the Town of Unadilla Friday evening. Hartman claimed to be with a fire department, he allegedly sexually assaulted the victim, who sustained an arm injury & was treated & released at A.O. Fox Hospital in Oneonta. Several hours later, State Police received an additional sexual assault complaint in the Town of Otego. Hartmann was located by Troopers at his residence, he was arraigned & was remanded to the Otsego County Correctional Facility on $15,000 cash bail or $30,000 bond. An order of protection was issued, more charges are expected.

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The DRI program in Norwich will hold the 2nd Local Planning Committee meeting virtually today at 3:00 PM as they plan what to do with the $10 Million Dollar Award from the state. Commerce Chenango President & CEO Kerri Green explains:

(Kerri Green 3-8-22)

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 found at the WCDO Facebook page.

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Former Oneonta Mayor David Brenner passed away Friday at the age of 90. Brenner served on the Otsego County Board of Representatives for many years, in 1985 he was elected Mayor of the City of Oneonta, a position he held for 12 years. Visitation will be held from 4:00 to 7:00 PM Friday, at the Lewis, Hurley & Pietrobono Funeral Home, 51 Dietz Street in Oneonta. The funeral service will be 11 am., Saturday at St. James Episcopal Church, 305 Main St., Oneonta,

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Governor Kathy Hochul announced that the Public Health and Health Planning Council passed an emergency regulation and the Health Commissioner issued a determination requiring all teachers, administrators and other school employees to submit to weekly COVID-19 testing unless they show proof of vaccination, with either a CDC vaccine card or the Excelsior Pass.   The Governor also announced that the State Department of Health has finalized and released official guidance for classroom instruction regarding Facemasks, which closely echoes the CDC guidance which districts were advised to follow. More information is available at coronavirus.health.ny.gov.

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Bassett Healthcare Network will be showcasing its school-based health center at Gilbertsville-Mount Upton Central School with a ribbon-cutting on Tuesday, September 7, at 5:00 pm.  The event is being held in conjunction with the school’s annual open house, Bassett Healthcare Network President & CEO Dr. Tommy Ibrahim will offer remarks.   Available Care will include Annual physical exams, Immunizations, Diagnosis and treatment of both short-and long-term illnesses,   mental health services & Preventive dental care

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CDO Workforce, serving Chenango, Delaware, Otsego counties, is partnering with Otsego County Chamber of Commerce, Commerce Chenango, and Delaware County Chamber of Commerce for the 2nd Virtual Career Fair, on Tuesday, September 14th from 11:00 am to 1:00 pm. The free event will allow local companies and job seekers to connect one-on-one for immediate placement opportunities, especially in industries that are in high demand including Healthcare, Hospitality, Tourism, & Manufacturing, more information is available at 432-4800.

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The Mid York Concert band is looking for area musicians to join, with rehearsals starting this month in Norwich, Band conductor Mark Sands explains:

(Mark Sands 9-3-21)

Anyone interested in joining the band can call sands at 334-4307, or email him: Midyorkcb@gmail.com, rehearsals will start Tuesday September 14th from 7:00 to 9:00 PM at the Norwich Middle School band room.

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The Susquehanna SPCA in Cooperstown has 4 male Beagle puppies up for adoption, and they have named the dogs after the 4 men being inducted into the National Baseball Hall of Fame next week, Executive Director Stacie Haynes explains:

(Stacie Haynes 9-3-21)

Haynes said that next Thursday, the winning puppy will be announced.  Visitors can stop at the new facility on State Route 28 in Cooperstown; pictures of the pups are also available on their website sqspca.org.

A.M. NEWS FRIDAY 9-3-21

The operator of Prestige Limousine, 31 year old Nauman Hussain, has pleaded guilty to 20 counts of negligent homicide in connection with the fatal Limo crash in Schoharie in 2018.   Hussain will be placed on interim probation for 2 years, will serve 1,000 hours of community service, he will not serve jail time & he was ordered to pay an undisclosed amount of money in restitution to the families of the deceased.  The October 6th, 2018, crash killed 18 people in the limo including the driver, plus 2 pedestrian in the parking lot of the Apple Barrel Convenience store at State Routes 30 and 30A in Schoharie. 

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The Summer Fest/ Bainbridge Days event will be held today & tomorrow, Bainbridge Chamber of Commerce spokesperson June White explains:

(June White 9-3-21)

The activities will start this afternoon at 5:00 PM, and continue on Saturday at 9:00 AM, with Events will be in the park and on Main Street.

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The Friends of Recovery of Delaware & Otsego County announced the Rothenberger Run for Recovery event on Saturday at Neahwa Park in Oneonta, Spokesman Kyle LaFever explains:

(Kyle LaFever 9-3-21)

Registration for the virtual or in-person run is available at rothenbergerrun.itsyourrace.com/register; online registration will remain open until this morning at 9:00 AM. Day of registration will be held from 7:30am-8:30am in Neahwa Park on Saturday, September 4th. Packet Pickup will take place today from 3:00 to 6:00 PM, or at day of registration.

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6zero7 Events presents the Afton Open Air Market, Labor Day edition featuring music, food and local vendors participating, organizer Melissa Matthews explains:

(Melissa Matthews 9-3-21)

The event will be set up at its usual location next to Suburban Propane on State Route 7 just outside of the village of Afton, Starting at 9:00 AM Saturday.

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The remainder of the Binghamton Rumble Ponies series with Richmond has been canceled as COVID 19 testing and contact tracing continues. Fans with tickets to Thursday, Friday, Saturday, or Sunday’s games can exchange their tickets to go to any future Rumble Ponies home game this season.

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Delaware County Public Health reported 63 new cases of COVID 19 in the last week, with 84 active cases, 6 Hospitalized and 122 quarantined.  Delaware County has had 2742 total cases, with 2606 recoveries & 52 deaths during the pandemic.

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Governor Kathy Hochul signed legislation extending virtual access to public meetings under the State’s Open Meetings Law, which allows New Yorkers to virtually participate in local government meetings during the COVID-19 pandemic, as long as the public has the ability to view or listen to the meeting and as long as the meeting is recorded and later transcribed. This change will reduce the need for congregation at public meetings while the Delta variant is prevalent, while ensuring public business can continue.

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Governor Cuomo announced today that New York will be lifting COVID restrictions when we hit 70% vaccinations for the adult population, & that could happen very soon:

(Cuomo 1)

The Governor Also said that mask restriction in schools will be changing, if individual school Districts want to do so:

(Cuomo 2)

The Governor said that the change in school district mask wearing will tie into the guidelines at summer camps when they re-open this year.

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State Police & local emergency squads responded Saturday afternoon at about 2:15 PM, to a multiple vehicle crash on State Route 7 near the Meadow Crest Park in the Town of Unadilla.  Police stated that a Chevy driven by Michael Tucker of Sidney, was traveling west bound on State Route 7, a Volkswagen Beatle was facing eastbound, driven by Jeanmarie Doelger of Bainbridge, had stopped to make a turn into a driveway when 3 motorcycles driven by Emma Stebbins of Bainbridge, Kory Bennet of Bainbridge & Ralph Bennet of Mount Upton struck the rear of the Doelger vehicle, Ralph Bennet’s Motorcycle struck Tucker’s Chevy & Tucker then hit a mail box.   Doelger was transported to AO Fox Hospital Tri- Town campus in Sidney, Stebbins was airlifted to Wilson Hospital, Bennett and Tucker were taken to Fox Hospital, Ralph Bennett was transported to Wilson Hospital.

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Blueox Corporation announced the sale of their Blueox Neighborhood Market convenience store chain to Stewart’s Shops based in Saratoga Springs, today. Blueox Corporation had 11 local convenience stores for over 35 years. The sale to Stewarts is expected to close in September.  Blueox will continue to operate their energy business, delivering fuel oil, kerosene and propane and will continue to service and replace energy equipment including furnaces, boilers, and hot water heaters.

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Sidney Police Department received a tip Saturday that 29 year old Anthony Masi of Sidney, who was wanted on an active arrest warrant, was shopping at Advance Auto on Delaware Ave in Sidney.   Police found Masi inside, he resisted arrest and refused to comply with the officer, running through the aisles to avoid arrest.   Masi was eventually taken into custody, he was found to be in possession of Methamphetamine, Suboxone and a hyperdermic needle, he was charged with Obstruction of governmental administration, Resisting arrest, Criminal possession of a controlled substance among other charges, he was arraigned & was released on his own recognizance to appear back in court at a later date. 

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Delaware County Public Health Services and Friends of Recovery- Delaware Otsego will be sponsoring a one-day Recovery Coach Basics course on June 16th, from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM at the Delaware River Masonic Lodge at 37 Meredith Street, Delhi.  The course includes all materials. Scholarships are available, to register, or for more information call 267-4435 or email at Kyle@friendsofrecoverydo.org.  The deadline to register is this Friday June 11th.

A.M. NEWS MONDAY 6-7-21

Following Saturday’s COVID testing, the state Health Department reported a .47% positivity rate, Statewide 7-Day Average Positivity is 0.52% — Has Declined for 62 Consecutive Days, there were 816 Patient Hospitalizations Statewide, the Lowest Since October 8, there were 13 COVID-19 Deaths Statewide Saturday. 

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Governor Cuomo announced that the ‘Vax and Scratch’ program, which provides free State lottery scratch-off tickets to individuals 18, has been extended through the end of this week at 10 state mass vaccination sites, including the SUNY Oneonta site.  All state mass vaccination sites are open for walk-in appointments for eligible New Yorkers.

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Delaware County Sheriff’s deputies responded 4:30 AM Friday to a report of an attempted robbery at Davenport residence, where the victims reported that an acquaintance demanded cash, Pepper-sprayed them & attempted to strike them with a hammer.  28-year-old Elijah Vergari of Oneonta fled prior to arrival of the Deputy, he was later taken into custody by Oneonta Police and was turned over to the Delaware County Sheriff’s Office.  Vergari was charged with attempted robbery, criminal possession of a weapon, 2 counts of attempted assault and unlawful possession of a noxious material.  Vergari was arraigned & was remanded to the Delaware County Correctional Facility pending further court proceedings.

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Sidney Fire Department was alerted Friday evening of 2 kayakers stuck in debris under an overpass along the Unadilla River.   Fire Department Members acted quickly and launched the rescue boat to access the stranded kayakers, who had already been in the water 20 to 30 minutes prior to the 9-1-1 call being placed. The Kayakers were transported to an area facility.

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The Unadilla Flag Day Parade will be held this year on June 14th, beginning at 7:00 PM starting at the Elementary School. Anyone interested in being in the parade contact Jeff Jones Jr. at 607-267-2494.

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Otsego County Fair officials announced that they have received clearance for the 2021 summer fair, which will run from August 3rd to Sunday, August 8th.  More information is available at otsegocountyfair.org.

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Chenango County Public Health reported another death from COVID 19, giving the county 69 deaths since the pandemic started last year.  Chenango County reports 13 new cases, 114 active cases, 374 Quarantines & 7 hospitalized.

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Commerce Chenango is now accepting Award Nominations for local people who make their communities a better place to live.  All nominees must be Commerce Chenango Chamber Members or employees of members and nominations must be received by May 1st, more information is available at 334-1402.

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The Unatego Central School district will hold a ZOOM meeting tonight at 6:00 PM regarding their $27.8 million dollar building project, Unatego Superintendent Dr. Dave Richards told WCDO News about the proposal:

(Dr. Dave Richards 4-15-21)

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 is on May 18th.

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A $1.48 million grant from the New York State Office of Addiction Services and Supports has been announced.   The Mohawk Valley Behavioral Health Care Collaborative and the South Central Behavioral Health Care Collaborative will merge, the funding will be sued to strengthen prevention, treatment, and recovery care services throughout 11 counties, including Broome, Chenango, Delaware, & Otsego Counties locally.  Friends of Recovery of Delaware & Otsego and Leatherstocking Education of Alcoholism and Addictions Foundation are 2 local organizations that will receive grant funding, more information is oasas.ny.gov.

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COVID-19 hospitalizations in New York State dropped to 3,963, the first time under 4,000 since December 1, according to the State Health Department. The statewide positivity rate dropped to 2.76 percent, the lowest since November 21.   Over 249,000 New Yorkers were tested for COVID Wednesday, the number of patients in an ICU bed was at 886, and the number on ventilators was down slightly to 559, there were 46 COVID deaths Statewide Wednesday.

A.m. News Thursday 4-15-21

The State Health Department announced that New York will move their curfew for bars and restaurants an hour to midnight, starting Monday, also auto and horse racing events will be able to have 20% capacity starting April 23.

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The Delaware County Chamber of Commerce will hold their 3rd Thursday virtual event this morning from 8:30 to 9:30 AM.  The featured speaker for this event is New York State Comptroller Thomas DiNapoli.  More information or registrations are available at delawarecounty.org.

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

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Delaware County Public Health reported 16 new COVID cases Wednesday, out of 475 tested; hospitalizations are at 18, quarantines down to 195 & active cases are at 125.

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State Health department announced that some restrictions are being lessened as COVID positivity rates continue to decline & vaccinations increase.  Indoor fitness classes can resume at limited capacity on March 22, at 33% with health screening and contact information required at sign-in.  Local health departments shall inspect before or within 2 weeks of the fitness center opening to ensure compliance.  Also, Beginning April 5th, the 11:00 PM curfew currently in place for casinos, movie theaters, bowling alleys, billiards halls, gyms and fitness centers will be lifted. The 11pm curfew for food and beverage establishments and the midnight curfew for catered events will remain in effect; both curfews will be re-evaluated in late April.

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Otsego County Sheriff’s Office arrested 29 year old Christopher Ruiz of the Town of Hartwick on 55 counts of violating an order of protection while incarcerated at the correctional facility.  Ruiz   is accused of contacting a party that was protected by an order of protection, over 100 times while remanded at the Otsego County correctional facility.

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State Police conducted an Underage Drinking Initiative Tuesday, in Otsego & Chenango Counties.  All 17 businesses were found to be in compliance in Greene, Oxford, Norwich, Sherburne, & Morris.  During the Underage Drinking Detail Initiative retail establishments are checking utilizing a trooper in plain clothes and one or several under aged operative who cannot lie about their age or give a fake date of birth.  When asked for ID, they must show their real ID.

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Delaware County Public Health Services and Friends of Recovery- Delaware Otsego will be sponsoring a Recovery Coach Academy & Ethical Considerations training from April 12th to April 17th, from 9:00 AM to 5:30 PM, at the First Baptist Church in Delhi.  The Recovery Coach Academy includes all course materials. Scholarships are available. For more information or to register for this course, call 267-4435 or email: Kyle@friendsofrecoverydo.org.  The deadline to register is April 7th.

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Chenango County Public Health reported 13 more COVID positive tests; they report 83 Active Cases, 252 Active Quarantines, 7 hospitalizations & 2598 Total Confirmed Cases, with 2357 recoveries & 64 deaths.

A.M. NEWS THURSDAY 3-18-21

The state-run mass vaccination site at SUNY Oneonta will open Friday, Bassett Healthcare Network staff will work at the site each day, along with Staff from the State, the National Guard and Otsego County Public Health.  Anyone currently eligible under state guidelines can find the link to register at bassett.org/covid-19, after registering, patients should go to forms.ny.gov/s3/vaccine.  Eligible New Yorkers can also schedule appointments by utilizing New York’s ‘Am I Eligible’ website or by calling the state’s COVID-19 Vaccination Hotline at 1-833-NYS-4-VAX (1-833-697-4829).  Each site will be open from 8:00 am to 7:00 pm. daily.

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22 year old Brandon Clark was sentenced to 25 years to life in Oneida County Court this week, for the murder of Bianca Devins in Utica in July of 2019.  Clark killed Devins & then posted the murder scene on social media, near the site of the Boilermaker run on Sunday, July 14th 2019.

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Broome County Special Investigations Unit Task Force arrested 43 year old Michael Palmer of Binghamton after they executed a search warrant at his residence.  Police seized over $10,000 in cash, Fentanyl & drug packaging materials, Palmer was charged with criminal possession of a controlled substance and tampering with physical evidence; he was arraigned in Binghamton City Court and was remanded to the Broome County Jail.

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Delaware County Public Health reported 18 new COVID cases out of 467 tested, they have 101 active cases, 8 hospitalized & 388 quarantined. 

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Delaware County Public Health will be conducting a COVID-19 vaccination clinic on Saturday at the DCMO BOCES- Harrold Campus, on State Route 206 from 9:00 AM to 2:00 PM. This vaccination clinic is open to New York state residents or people who work in New York State who presently qualify by being 60+ years of age, an eligible worker 18+ years of age, or those with qualifying medical conditions 18+ years of age.  Eligibility requirements are available at covid19vaccine.health.ny.gov/phaseddistribution-vaccine, Registration is mandatory at delawarecountypublichealth.com/covid-19.

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The Delaware County Chamber of Commerce will hold their free virtual Third Thursday event this morning from 8:30 to 9:30 AM.  The featured speaker is Congressman Antonio Delgado, who was elected to his 2nd term in November, he currently serves on the House Agriculture, Small Business, and Transportation and Infrastructure committees, to register, go to delawarecounty.org.

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(Cuomo 3-30-20 doubling the rate)

Governor Cuomo also said that too many people are treating the “Stay At Home” mandate like it was optional:

(Cuomo 3-30-20 stay home)

Local officials have expressed concern that too many people are leaving the most affected areas and are coming to Otsego & Delaware Counties to wait it out, and they could be driving up the local numbers & threatening the local population and healthcare systems.

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State Senator Jim Seward’s office announced today that the Senator & his wife Cindy both tested positive for the Coronavirus.  Seward has displayed mild Symptoms and is expected to be released from Albany Medical Center shortly, while Cindy Seward was treated & released from Bassett Hospital and is recovering while quarantined at home, both are expected to fully recover.

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NYSEG today announced they are donating approximately 17,700 protective masks to assist health care workers across the state amid a shortage of protective gear for medical personnel fighting the coronavirus pandemic. The donation comes on the heels of Governor Cuomo’s call for assistance as New York continues to face increasing strains on the health care system. The surgical masks and N95 respirators are being delivered to a state receiving center, where officials will disperse them to facilities most in need.

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Chenango County Health Department announced this morning that they have 14 positive cases of the Coronavirus, with 10 more positives over the weekend.  Otsego County also had 14 Positives with 1 death, Delaware County Had 12; Broome County has 29, with 3 deaths.

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The Unadilla Community Food Pantry is open to residents of Unadilla on Mondays, Fridays and Saturdays from 11:00-12:30 with curb side service.  More information is available at 563-7713.

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The Community Foundation for South Central New York has released $110,000 in grants to organizations providing services during the COVID-19 Crisis in the region. The Friends of Recovery Delaware/Otsego will receive $5,000, the Food Bank of the Southern Tier will get $7,500 for meal delivery programs, Delaware Opportunities receives $15,000 for meal delivery programs, Chenango United Way gets $15,000 for their community response, Opportunities for Otsego receives $15,000 for their community response to COVID-19, & ARC of Delaware County receives $2,500 for the Walton Food Pantry.  More information about the Foundation can be found at donorswhocare.org.

Governor Cuomo stated yesterday that there were 59,573 cases of the Corona Virus in the State, with 965 deaths, over 8500 are in Hospitals, 2037 were in ICU Beds, & 3572 have been discharged.   The Governor talked about the heroism of all the 1st Responders during this crisis:

(Cuomo 3-30-20)

Governor Cuomo announced all New York on Pause functions will be extended for the next 2 weeks; the state nonessential workforce will continue to work from home for an additional two weeks through April 15th. Executive Orders regarding the closing of restaurants and bars, gyms, movie theaters, casinos; local government workforces, school districts; malls, public amusement facilities; barber shops & salons are also extended until April 15th.

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The Otsego County Coronavirus Task Force is asking Individuals who are traveling to Otsego County from the New York City and other areas hard hit by COVID-19, to notify the Otsego County Department of Health upon their arrival by phone and self-isolate for 14 days. During the 14-day period, you should monitor all household members for signs and symptoms of COVID-19. These include fever, cough and shortness of breath.

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Acco Brands Bargaining employees will be having their Contract Extension Vote today at the CWA Sidney Union Hall 9 River Street; until 6:00 PM.  Only 2 people will be allowed in the hall at a time because of the Corona Virus recommendations regarding social distancing.

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(Seward 6-6-19)

The New York Association of County Clerks opposes the legislation since they cannot vet documents from other countries.

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Fire fighters responded Friday night to a fire at 630 Sutherland Road No. 2 in the town of Meredith.  Fire investigators determined that 78 year old Bart Misiewicz tripped & fell while carrying a kerosene lamp, his house was completely destroyed.  Fire fighters from the Treadwell, Franklin, Delhi, Meridale, East Meredith and Pindars Corners fire departments assisted, no injuries were reported.

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State Senator Jen Metzger has introduced a bill to protect owners of mobile homes and other manufactured housing from unreasonable lot rent increases. In recent years, some mobile home lot owners have taken advantage of tenants, who do not own the land on which they place their homes, by implementing large rent increases which have resulted in loss of housing and homelessness.   Metzger’s bill limits rent increases in manufactured home parks to the three-year average of inflation plus acceptable allowances. The bill has an Assembly Co-Sponsor.

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Delaware County Public Health and Friends of Recovery of Delaware Otsego in conjunction with Sidney Memorial Library are offering free Narcan trainings to the public today. Each person will receive a Narcan Rescue Kit after their training; Narcan is a nasal spray to reverse the effects of opioids.  The event will be held at the 6:00 pm at the Sidney Memorial Public Library- Smart Community Room at 8 River Street in Sidney.

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Delaware County Public Health Free Rabies Vaccination Clinic for dogs, cats and ferrets will be held today from 5:00 to 7:00 pm at Pindar’s Corners Fire Department, on State Route 23 in Davenport Center.   More information is available at 832-5200 or delawarecountypublichealth.com

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The Bainbridge-Guilford Central School will hold a Board of Education Meeting Today in the District Conference Room at the Jr/Sr High School at 6:30 PM. The business portion of the meeting will start at 7:00 PM with a Public Hearing on the Code of Conduct.

State Police have charged 25 year old John Mehne of Sarasota, Florida for 1st degree Burglary, Robbery, Aggravated Cruelty to Animals & Criminal Possession of Stolen Property after they were dispatched Tuesday to an accident on I-81.  Troopers located a stolen Audi disabled in the driving lane and facing the wrong direction with no operator.  Mehne struck the guiderail & attempted to jump on the back of a van, and then he jumped into the back of a pick-up, eventually escaping into the woods.  State Police received a call from a resident on Duell Road reporting Mehne was in his chicken coop, Mehne picked up an ax and began chasing the resident, then stole his ATV.  A short time later, troopers received a call that a white naked male was in a chicken coop on Springer Road & Mehne was taken into custody.  State Police accuse Mehne of several area burglaries & for the killing of a dog, he was treated at Binghamton General Hospital from a Police Dog Bite; he was arraigned & was remanded to the Broome County Jail without bail.  The investigation is ongoing; anyone with damage in Kirkwood should call police at 775-1241.

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The Sidney Chamber of Commerce will honor Lori Roach as the Citizen of the Years & ABC Dance Studio as the Business of the years, at tonight’s annual Dinner.  Lori Roach commented:

(Lori Roach 6-6-19)

Amy Burns Cuozzo, owner of the ABC Dance Studio also commented:

(Amy Burns Cuozzo 6-6-19)

Tonight’s Sidney Chamber of Commerce Dinner will be held at 5:30 at the Sidney Fire Department Training Center on River Street, both will be in the SFCU Hometown Parade Saturday.

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Delaware County Chamber of Commerce has collaborated with the Walton Chamber of Commerce and the Delaware County Industrial Development Agency to present a session on Walton’s designation as an “Opportunity Zone” by New York State.  The designation allows for incentivized business development in Walton, today at Molto Espresso, 151 Delaware Street, Walton from 11:00 AM to 12:00 Noon.

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Governor Cuomo announced yesterday that he plans to run for a 4th term in 2022.  Cuomo handily defeated republican Marcus Molinaro last year on Election Day,

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Commerce Chenango has announced the Human Resources Roundtable Workshop will take place Thursday, June 13th, in the Community Room at Commerce Chenango located at 15 South Broad Street in Norwich, beginning at 8:00AM.  The panel discussion will feature human resources professionals from Alvogen, New York Central Mutual, NBT Insurance Agency; and Preferred Mutual Insurance Company.  The workshop is open to Chamber Members only; registration is required by June 10 by calling 334-1400 or register@chenangony.org.

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Delaware County Public Health and Friends of Recovery- Delaware Otsego, in conjunction with Sidney Memorial Library and Andes Public Library, are offering free Narcan trainings to the public. The training is open to everyone. Upon completion of the training, each person will receive a Narcan Rescue Kit.  Free Upcoming Narcan Trainings will be tomorrow at 6:00 PM at the Andes Public Library & Thursday, June 6th @ 6:00 pm at the Sidney Memorial Public Library- Smart Community Room. 

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Chenango County students entering 8th or 9th grade in September, can attend the annual Chenango Memorial Hospital Career Days on August 14th and 15th.  CMH will be hosting a free two day “camp” to explore different careers in the medical field.  Activities will be hands on in Radiology, Heart Care, Emergency Room, Respiratory Therapy, Operating Room, Nursing, Maternity, Physical Therapy, Pharmacy and Nursing Home.   More information is available at 337-4285; the Application deadline is June 7th.

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The 5th Annual Sidney Veterans Memorial Park Golf Tournament & Fundraiser will be held June 9th at the Sidney Golf & Country Club.  Spokesman Tom Ruff explains:

(Tom Ruff 5-29-19)

More information about the fundraiser & the Sidney Veterans’ Memorial Park & the current expansion is available at 518-256-7899.

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State Lawmakers are continuing to re-word legislation before the end of the 2019 session that may legalize recreational Marijuana in New York State.  The New York State Sheriff’s Association opposes that idea, Delaware County Sheriff Craig Dumond comments:

(Sheriff Dumond 5-29-19)

An amended marijuana legalization bill was introduced on Friday to echo Governor Cuomo’s original proposal, which would include the forming of the Office of Cannabis Management to regulate commercial and medical marijuana.

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26-year-old Haylery Rodriguez of Johnson City was issued tickets Friday for Unlicensed Operator and 7 improper restraint tickets.  State Police responded to the report of a several children rising unrestrained in a vehicle leaving the Tioga Downs.  A trooper stopped the vehicle on State Route 17 & discovered 12 people in a vehicle that seats 7.  7 children ranging from ages 3 to 11 that were not in child seats, booster seats or even belted in the vehicle & Rodriguez was driving with only a learner’s permit and did not have a licensed driver in the vehicle. The trooper stayed with the vehicle for 2 1/2 hours to ensure everyone in the vehicle was picked up by a licensed driver with the proper safety equipment.

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The Pennsylvania-New York Joint Interstate Bridge Commission will conduct its annual meeting today at the Binghamton State Office Building, 44 Hawley Street. The meeting will be held on the 18th floor and scheduled to begin at 10:00 AM, Representatives from the State DOT and the Pennsylvania DOT will discuss matters related to the 10 bridges crossing the Delaware River to Pike and Wayne counties in Pennsylvania.  The meeting is open to the public.

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The Chenango County Health Department will hold another Free Rabies Clinic for Dogs, Cats & Ferrets today.  The Clinic will be held at the Plymouth Fire Station from 5:30 to 6:30 PM.

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