Welcome to Putnam's First Baby of 2017

CARMEL, NY – Matt Simone was hoping, he said, for a New Year’s Day baby and the new dad got his wish.

The Simones, of Poughquag, greeted 2017 with the birth of their first child, a girl.

Sophia Rae Simone was the first baby born on New Year’s Day at Putnam Hospital Center, making her debut at 10:49 a.m., and weighing 7 pounds, 8 ounces and 19.25 inches long.

“It’s exciting,” said mom, Amanda Simone. “It’s a good birthday to have.”

The newborn came two days before her due date and the parents did not know whether they were having a girl or boy.

“This is a perfect way to start the New Year,” Amanda Simone said, while kissing her baby girl’s cheeks.

Photo: New parents Amanda and Matt Simone with their baby girl Sophia Rae Simone