WCDO Radio News

P.M. NEWS MONDAY 7-24-23

2 more players were inducted into the National Baseball Hall of Fame Sunday in Cooperstown, Fred McGriff played for 19 years in the big leagues, he talked about the journey from struggling in the minors after being drafted by the New York Yankees, to getting into the Hall Of Fame:

(Fred McGriff PM)

Scott Rolen won 8 Gold Gloves at 3rd Base over his career mostly with the Philadelphia Phillies, St. Louis Cardinals, Toronto Blue Jays & Cincinnati Reds, he told the Story about his father giving him advice before an interstate all Star basketball game, that stuck with him throughout his baseball career:

(Scott Rolen PM)

In a separate ceremony on Saturday, three other baseball notables were recognized, Chicago Cubs Broadcaster Pat Hughes received the Ford C. Frick Award for broadcasting, John Lowe was honored with the Baseball Writers Career Excellence Award and Brooklyn Dodger great Carl Erskine received the Buck O’Neil lifetime achievement award.

A noon time thunderstorm caused problems around the region earlier today. 1 tree was down at Route 7 & The I-88 Access Road by Exit 10 in Unadilla, traffic was diverted away from the area, also NYSEG reported about 400 customers were without power in Bainbridge, Afton & Guilford, at around Noon, another 655 were without power in Unadilla after a transformer blew at about 1:20PM, that forced the Unadilla Town Court to postpone tonight's expected Court session.

The Sidney Police Department is investigating numerous incidents of a person going through unlocked vehicles Saturday night. The incidents occurred in the Pearl Street/Glen Ave area of the village. Pictured below is a person of interest related to the incidents. Though you are not able to see their face you can see a very unique hooded sweatshirt they are wearing. On the back is what appears to be red roses surrounded by a phrase. We are asking the public for help in identifying the person in this picture. Anyone with any information is asked to contact our office at 607 561-2301. We would also like to remind the public to always keep your vehicle locked when not in use and to not leave valuables in your vehicle overnight.

The Otsego County Sheriff's Office arrested 61 year old Ann Herberger of Gilbertsville following a traffic stop on July 17th in the Town of Butternuts. Herberger was charged with Aggravated Unlicensed Operation of a vehicle, Operating a Motor Vehicle while Registration is Suspended, & Operating Motor Vehicle without Insurance. Deputies discovered that Herberger was operating a motor vehicle while her driver's license & the Vehicle's Registration was suspended. She will appear in the Town of Butternuts at a later date.

State Police in Binghamton are currently attempting to locate 17-year-old Jason Babcock Jr; who left his residence on Colesville Road in the town of Colesville on June 18th on his bicycle. The bicycle is described as a blue and white "Kent 20" BMX bike. Babcock Jr. is described as a fair skinned white male with dirty blonde hair with a longer crew cut hair style and about 6’ to 6’2” tall. He was last seen wearing a black shirt with a print of "Marvin the Martian" on the front and black shorts. Anyone with information is asked to call State Police at (607) 561-7400.

A.M. NEWS Monday 7-24-23

2 more players were inducted into the National Baseball Hall of Fame Sunday in Cooperstown, Fred McGriff played for 19 years in the big leagues:

(Fred McGriff 7-23-23)

Scott Rolen won 8 Gold Gloves at 3rd Base over his career mostly with the St. Louis Cardinals & Philadelphia Phillies:

(Scott Rolen 7-23-23)

there are over 340 members of the Baseball Hall of Fame, 48 returned yesterday for the induction of McGriff & Rolen.

President Biden approved Governor Hochul's request for a Major Disaster Declaration to provide federal assistance to communities impacted by flooding from heavy rainstorms across much of Upstate New York. The declaration releases critical federal assistance to support recovery and reconstruction efforts in Clinton, Dutchess, Essex, Hamilton, Ontario, Orange, Putnam and Rockland counties. These counties now have access to financial support for debris removal, emergency protective measures and repairs to public buildings and infrastructure.

The Otsego County Sheriff's Office released the identity of the man found deceased in Fox Hospital Oneonta Bathroom in May. 32 year old Michael Morton of West Winfield died of a drug overdose sometime between May 30th and May 31. The autopsy found fentanyl, oxycodone, and several other substances.

The Otsego County Sheriff's Office arrested 49 year old Zachary Fuller of Worcester on an arrest warrant issued out of the Town of Worcester Court. Fuller was charged with Grand Larceny, Unauthorized Use of a Motor Vehicle & Criminal Contempt, after Deputies investigated the report of a stolen vehicle in April, a warrant was issued, Fuller was later arrested by State Police during a separate incident, he was remanded to the Otsego County Correctional Facility to court action.

The American Red Cross will have a blood drive in Oneonta today. The Blood Drive will be held from 12:00 PM to 5:00 PM at the Southside Mall. To make an appointment, simply download the American Red Cross Blood Donor App, visit RedCrossBlood.org, call 1-800-RED CROSS.

P.M. NEWS THURSDAY 12-10-20

Governors, Mayors & government leaders across the nation are urging the federal Government to include them in the next Federal COVID stimulus package, as they are all facing massive debts from tackling the pandemic since the spring, Governor Cuomo yesterday said that he is begging the New York Congressional Delegation to urge their colleagues in Washington to get it done or face dire consequences:

(Cuomo 12-10-20)

Previous federal aid went to taxpayers & businesses, but not local governments.

Chenango County Public Health announced that they have 13 more positive cases & another death from COVID 19.  The county reports a 14th death, 99 Active Cases, 480 Active Quarantines 7 people are hospitalized.  Chenango County has had 767 Total Confirmed Cases, 647 recoveries & they have conducted over 48,300 tests.

Broome County Health Department reports another 84 positive COVID cases today, bringing their total to 6064 since the spring.  They also reported 5 more deaths, bring their toll up to 150, they have had 5157 recoveries & they are monitoring over 4700 people.

Hospice Chenango is holding their annual “Light Up A Life” event virtually this year, which will be featured on YouTube tonight at 7:00 PM, organizer Inda Gillette explains:

(Inda Gillette 12-10-20)

More information about the "Light Up A Life” or Hospice Chenango programs is available at 334-3556.

Governor Cuomo today announced the launch of the New York Forward Small Business Lease Assistance Partnership. The program will provide small businesses and their landlords that have struggle during the COVID 19 Pandemic, with informational resources and pro bono assistance to help both parties reach mutually-beneficial lease workout agreements. This service is available to all New York State small businesses and landlords, and participation is voluntary.   Additionally, the New York Forward Loan Fund continues to provide working capital loans of up to $100,000 to help small businesses and non-profit organizations reopen.

Delaware County Sheriff's deputies arrested 21 year old Jessica Winans of Unadilla after a report of a motor vehicle accident on River Road in the Town of Sidney.  Upon arrival Troopers observed that Winans exhibited signs of intoxication during their interview.   Winans was charged with DWI, operating a motor vehicle with a BAC of .08% or more, operating a motor vehicle while using a mobile phone, as well as other charges. Winans was released to appear in the Town of Sidney Court on a later date.

A.M. NEWS Thursday 12-10-20

Otsego County Department of Health had 21 new COVID 19 cases reported Wednesday, giving the county 1496 total confirmed cases,  143 active cases,  17 are hospitalized, there have been 8 deaths;  767 cases linked to SUNY Oneonta & 71 confirmed cases linked to Hartwick College

Delaware County Public Health reported 11 new cases of COVID 19 Wednesday, with 96 active cases, 8 hospitalizations & 320 in quarantine.  Delaware County has had 475 total cases, 370 recoveries & 9 deaths.

The National Baseball Hall of Fame has announced that Al Michaels will be the 45th recipient of the Ford C. Frick Award for broadcasting excellence. He will be honored during induction weekend in July 2021.  Michaels became lead broadcaster on ABC’s “Monday Night Baseball” telecasts in 1983. He was in the booth when an earthquake struck at San Francisco’s Candlestick Park in 1989.

Barbara Ann Heegan will resign shortly from the Otsego County Chamber of Commerce, to be the next president and CEO of the Greenwood South Carolina Chamber of Commerce.   Heegan starts January 4th, the Chamber Board of Directors announced the appointment of Alan Rubin as Interim President & CEO effective Tuesday, December 29th.

State Police arrested 26 year old Nicholas Weathers of Endicott for Criminal Possession of a Weapon, Unlawfully Fleeing an Officer in a Motor Vehicle.  Troopers spotted a vehicle traveling at a high rate of speed, they stopped the vehicle and began to interview Weathers, When troopers asked him to step out of his vehicle, and he drove off.   Weathers parked in Endicott and took off on foot, he was taken into custody.  Weathers was found in possession of a loaded handgun; he does not possess a pistol permit.  Weathers was transported to Wilson Hospital for an evaluation, he was later processed at Broome Central Processing.

The State Public Service Commission revoked its approval of the 2016 merger agreement between Charter Communications and Time Warner Cable, because Charter, doing business as Spectrum, has made it clear that it has no intention of providing the public benefits upon which the Commission's earlier approval was conditioned. In addition, the Commission attorneys is filing an enforcement action today in State Supreme Court to seek additional penalties for Charter's past failures and ongoing non-compliance. Charter/Spectrum failed to meet deadlines & attempted to skirt obligations to serve rural communities, they have been ordered to file within 60 days a plan with the Commission to ensure an orderly transition to a successor provider.

Governor Cuomo today announced the nation's first strategy to eliminate hepatitis C, including the establishment of a Task Force that will advise the state as it implements its plan. The elimination effort aims to stop the spread of the virus by increasing access to medications that can cure hepatitis C and expanding programs to connect New Yorkers with prevention, screening and treatment services. Hepatitis C is a liver disease affecting more than 200,000 New Yorkers, deaths have exceeded HIV-related deaths, with injecting drug use as the most common risk factor, the opioid epidemic has fueled a rise in new hepatitis C cases.

The Bainbridge Chamber of Commerce will hold their annual golfing event this Sunday at Sundown Golf Course. Teams looking to sign up can call the Bainbridge Chamber Offices at 967-8700.

The American Legion Riders of Sidney Post 183 will hold their annual Benefit Run Saturday. Registration begins at 10:00 AM at the Sidney Veteran's Memorial; proceeds will benefit the American Legion Operation Comfort Warriors.

State Police arrested 38 year old Alycia Martin of Sidney for Driving While Ability Impaired by Drugs. Troopers on patrol spotted Martin driving on State Highway 7 without any headlights, after a traffic stop, Troopers determined that she was impaired & that her license was suspended. Martin was subsequently arrested and arraigned in the town of Bainbridge Court where she was released on her own recognizance. She is scheduled to reappear in court on August 28th.

The National Hall of Fame Induction weekend is this weekend, with a variety of events through Monday. on Saturday at 4:30 pm at Doubleday Field, Sheldon Ocker will receive the J.G. Taylor Spink Award for meritorious contributions to baseball writing; and MLB Network’s Bob Costas will be honored with the Ford C. Frick Award for major contributions to baseball broadcasting & the 9th Hall of Fame Parade of Legends will begin at 6:00 PM, along Main Street. On Sunday, The annual Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony will begin at 1:30 p.m. at the Clark Sports Center, inductees are Vladimir Guerrero, Trevor Hoffman, Chipper Jones, Jim Thome, Jack Morris and Alan Trammell.

The Greene Lions Club announces that the Greene Arts Festival will be held Saturday in downtown Greene, spokesperson Patty Washburn explains:

(Patty Washburn 7-18-18)

More than 200 quality artisans exhibit their arts & crafts on the streets of Greene. More information is available at 656-8225.

The American Red Cross has declared an emergency need for all blood types. A.O. Fox's Tri-Town Campus is hosting a blood drive today from 2:30 to 6:30 PM in conference room #2. Appointments can be made by calling 561-7937 or redcrossblood.org. Walk-ins are always welcome.

23 Year old Kevin Perry of Laurens has been charged with 1st degree murder & criminal use of a weapon, for allegedly killing his parents in their home on New Road in the town of Laurens last night. The sheriff's office received a call from a relative who found Tim & Solveig Perry dead in their home, The Otsego County Sheriff's department alerted area law enforcement agencies to be on the lookout for Perry's Pickup truck. Schoharie County sheriff’s deputies spotted the Pick Up truck, on I-88, Perry was apprehended following a high-speed chase, & a crash where Perry’s vehicle overturned at Exit 23. Perry was arraigned today in Town of Oneonta court, he was remanded to the Otsego County Jail without bail.

Delaware County Sheriff Deputy’s arrested Matthew Bowden of Hancock for Unlawful Possession of Marijuana and Aggravated Unlicensed Operation of a motor vehicle, after a stop in Hancock for traffic violations. Deputies observed a strong scent of marihuana emanating from the vehicle; a search of the vehicle uncovered a quantity of marihuana. Deputies also discovered that Bowden’s operating privileges in New York State had been suspended. Bowden was released with appearance tickets to appear in the Town of Hancock Court at a later date.

Governor Cuomo today announced that more than $755 million in economic and community development funding has been awarded through Round VII of the Regional Economic Development Council initiative. All 10 regions won money for their projects, the top 5 winning regions were Central New York, Mohawk Valley, the Capital Region, The Mid Hudson region & Long Island. Locally, the Mohawk regional Council, which includes Otsego County, receives $85.5 Million dollars for their projects, which includes a $525,000 award for Brewery Ommegang for their Hospitality Center in Cooperstown. The Southern Tier Region, which contains Delaware, Chenango & Broome Counties will receive 67. 3 Million dollars for their various projects.

NY State of Health officials announced that enrollment continues to increase as consumers approach the important December 15th deadline to enroll for coverage that starts January 1st. the Customer Service Center has answered more than 865,000 calls since November 1st - up 180,000 calls since last reported. Website and call volumes are expected to increase as the December 15th deadline approaches. Open Enrollment in a Qualified Health Plan continues through January 31st, 2018. Enrollment in the Essential Plan, Medicaid and Child Health Plus is open all year.

State Comptroller Tom DiNapoli announced his office completed audits of several school district around the state, including the Oneonta City School Districts. The Comptrollers report regarding the Oneonta District said that the district ensured the accuracy of compensation and benefits provided to employees. Officials effectively segregated the multiple aspects of the payroll process and provided adequate oversight.

Bob Costas has been selected as the 2018 recipient of the Ford C. Frick Award, presented annually for excellence in broadcasting by the National Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum. Costas will be recognized during the Hall of Fame Awards Presentation on Saturday, July 28, as part of Hall of Fame Weekend next summer.

The State Health Department declared that influenza is now prevalent in the State, which puts into effect a regulation requiring that health care workers who are not vaccinated against influenza wear surgical or procedure masks in areas where patients are typically present. New York has had 1,820 laboratory-confirmed cases of influenza in 54 counties and all 5 boroughs of New York City. There have been 612 influenza-related hospitalizations reported, and no reports of pediatric deaths from influenza. Over the last three seasons, there have been 19 pediatric influenza deaths in New York and an average of 11,183 influenza-related hospitalizations each season.

Broome County District Attorney Stephen Cornwell announced that Joshua Taylor was sentenced in Broome County Court Tuesday, for the murder of James High in Binghamton in 2015. Taylor will spend 25 years to life behind in jail for the murder of High outside the Antler Lodge in July 2015.

Norwich Police & Chenango County Sheriff's deputies arrested 3 people on various charges after the execution of a "no-knock" search warrant at 29 Silver Street Tuesday. Arrested were 50-year-old Alan Banks of Norwich for Criminal sale of a controlled substance & Criminal nuisance, 31-year-old Steven White of Norwich for Criminal sale of a controlled substance & 29-year-old Amanda Strozier of Norwich for Criminal nuisance. Banks and White are accused of selling cocaine; while Banks and Strozier are accused of allowing people to sells drugs at their Norwich apartment. Banks and White were sent to the Chenango County Correctional Facility on $10,000 bail each, while Strozier was sent on $5,000 bail. All 3 will appear in Norwich City Court Thursday.

At 11:00 AM this morning, Governor Cuomo will announce the 2017 Regional Economic Development Council Awards. The event will be held at the Albany Capital Center.

Governor Cuomo today announced that applications from non-profit non-public schools and day care centers, are now being accepted for the $25 million Securing Communities Against Hate Crimes Grant program, for grants to strengthen security and prevent hate crimes or attacks against these facilities because of their ideology, beliefs or mission. The grant is administered by the State Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services, & could provide up to $50,000 for security upgrades. Applications are due by December 18th.

The Chenango Substance Abuse Prevention Coalition in collaboration with The Chenango County Sheriff’s Office & The Norwich City Police Department will hold 3 National Drug Take-Back Month Events this Saturday. The events will be held between 10:00 AM & 1:30 PM at the Norwich Police Department at 18 East Main Street, the Bainbridge Town Hall at 33 West Main Street & the Smyrna Town Hall at 7 East Main Street. Unwanted or expired medications will be accepted at the event, organizers remind those bringing in the unwanted meds, to have them in their original containers.

Governor Cuomo has vetoed a bill that would ban gravity knives. The Governor stated that overly broad language in the legislation would have applied to too many knives. A compromise on the bill failed to be passed in the final days of the 2017 session of the legislature in Albany, Cuomo said that bill approved by lawmakers was not a sufficient improvement from a previous plan that tightened up the definition of a “gravity knife.” The proposed compromise by the governor’s office would have addressed issues raise by police departments and added protections for workers who carrying knives as part of their jobs.

8 of the Baseball’s most recognizable voices have been named as the finalists for the 2018 Ford C. Frick Award, presented annually for excellence in baseball broadcasting by the National Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum. The 8 finalists for the 2018 Award include Joe Buck, Bob Costas, Al Michaels, & Joe Morgan, the winner will be announced on December 13th at baseball’s Winter Meetings and will be honored during the July 28 Awards Presentation in Cooperstown.

ACHIEVE Broome-Chenango-Tioga welcomes the community to visit their Chenango Day Habilitation facility, at 214 County Route 44 in Norwich on Tuesday November 2nd for light refreshments provided by Canasawacta Country Club and an introduction to ACHIEVE and the services they provide.

High winds led to a number of power outages across the Southern Tier overnight & into Tuesday afternoon. NYSEG reported that about 350 customers were without power in the town of Sidney & about 60 in the Town of Bainbridge, as of 2:00 this afternoon. NYSEG Crews were working on restoring power as quickly as possible.

Amphenol in Sidney announced this afternoon, that due to the power outage at the Main facility, 2nd shift has been cancelled 2nd shift employees should not report to work. 3rd shift employees should report as normal. All Plating employees on both shifts should report to work as normal.

Governor Cuomo signed legislation adding electronic cigarettes to the Clean Indoor Air Act, which bans their use everywhere that smoking tobacco products are prohibited. The bill would reduce the exposure to potentially dangerous chemicals for e-cigarette users and those around them. Under current law, only smoking substances containing tobacco, including cigars, cigarettes or pipes, are restricted in public places.

The Chenango County Farm Bureau the 62nd Annual Meeting is starting at 6:30 PM tonight at the Silo Restaurant in Greene. State Senator Fred Akshar, a representative from Senator Seward’s office and Assemblyman Cliff Crouch have been invited.

The Chenango County Health Department announces another Flu Vaccination Clinic to be held today. The Clinic will be held from 5:00 to 7:00 PM at the Bainbridge Firehouse. Registrations or more information is available at 337-1660.

NBT Bancorp reported record net income for both the 3 months & 9 months periods ending September 30th. Net income for the last quarter was $22.9 million, up from $21.4 million for the 2nd quarter of 2017 and up from $20.0 million for the third quarter of last year. Net income for the 9 months of 2017 was $64.5 million, up 9.7% from $58.8 million for the same period last year.

In addition to the induction of great baseball players Jeff Bagwell, Ivan Rodriguez & Tim Raines, Long time Executive John Scheurholz & Former Commissioner Bud Selig were inducted into the National Baseball Hall of Fame in Cooperstown Sunday: Schuerholz said that he was honored to be picked against all odds:

(John Scheurholz 7-31-17)

Former Commissioner Bud Selig was asked after the ceremony about the thing he was most proud of regarding his 22-year tenure as Commissioner:

(Bud Selig 7-31-17)

On Saturday the Hall of Fame inducted J.G. Taylor Spink Award winner Claire Smith, the Buck O’Neil Lifetime Achievement Award winner was Rachel Robinson and Oakland A's Broadcaster Bill King, who was honored with the Ford C. Frick Award.

Delaware County Sheriff Deputies responded Sunday to a motorcycle accident on State Highway 206 in the Town of Walton. 45 year old James VerNooy of Walton was driving a farm tractor & was turning left, when a motorcycle operated by 70 year old James Cushman of Norwich struck the tractor while attempting to overtake and pass it in a no passing zone. Cushman and his passenger, 67-year-old Nancy Cushman, were thrown from the motorcycle; Nancy Cushman was fatally injured and died at the scene. James Cushman sustained serious physical injuries and was transported to Delaware Valley Hospital in Walton and was then airlifted to UHS Wilson Medical Center in Johnson City for treatment. The investigation is continuing. Anyone who may have witnessed the accident should contact the Sheriff's Office at (607) 832-5555.

The Otsego County Sheriff’s department arrested a Level 1 sex offender from Virginia for failure to notify authorities that he moved to New York State. Lawrence Green was found living with a relative in the town of Butternuts for a few months, without reporting his move to authorities. Green was remanded to the Otsego County Jail on $2,500.00 cash or $5,000.00 bond.

Delaware County Sheriff's Office arrested 2 men Friday, in connection with a Town of Delhi burglary and a traffic stop in the Town of Kortright. 37-year-old Patrick Burnside of Bloomville and 43 year old George Robinson of Delhi, were charged with 2nd degree Burglary, 3rd degree Grand Larceny plus Conspiracy & Criminally Possessing a Hypodermic Instrument. Robinson was also charged with Aggravated Unlicensed Operation of a Motor Vehicle as Deputies observed him operating a motor vehicle in Kortright with a suspended license. Both men are accused of entering a Town of Delhi residence on July 17th and stealing a safe containing cash and jewelry valued at $6,000, they were arraigned and were remanded to the Delaware County Jail on Bail pending further court action. The Investigation is continuing.

The Otsego County fair begins tomorrow in Morris, fair Spokesperson Lisa Jones explains:

(Lisa Jones 7-28-17)

Tuesday is opening day at the Otsego County Fair, with Dollar day, free Parking, plus the Fireman's Parade & Fireworks. The Otsego County Fair runs to Sunday August 6th.

State Police responded to a 2-car crash on State Route 7 this morning, that resulted in a fatality. The investigation is ongoing & additional information will be released on Tuesday.

Chenango County Sheriff’s Office received a report of a 2 vehicle crash on County Road 3 & King Road in the Town of Smithville at about 6:45 this morning. A 2013 Hyundai operated by 19 year old Breanna Christian of Norwich, failed to stop at a stop sign at County Road 3, her vehicle was struck by a dump truck operated by 47 year old Brad Sparling of Walton. After striking Christian’s vehicle, the dump truck overturned spilling its load. Both operators were transported to UHS Wilson Hospital in Johnson City. Christian is listed in critical condition and Sparling was treated for minor injury.

5 More members were inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame in Cooperstown Sunday, including stand out players Jeff Bagwell, Ivan Rodriguez & Tim Raines. Bagwell was the first of the players to speak, he played his entire career with the Houston Astros & he addressed his 89-year-old Father who was in attendance Sunday:

(Jeff Bagwell 7-31-17)

Ivan Rodriguez set many records for catching longevity, in spite of his stature, which he spoke about Sunday in Cooperstown:

(Ivan Rodriguez 7-31-17)

Tim Raines had his greatest years in Montreal, but it took 17 years before he experienced a World Championship as a New York Yankee:

(Tim Raines 7-31-17)

Other Inductees Sunday included Baseball Executive John Schuerholz and former Milwaukee Brewers Owner & Baseball Commissioner Bud Selig.

Following a search by members of several Law Enforcement agencies, 23-year-old Justina Mastrorocco of Walton was back into custody less than 2 hours after escaping from the Delaware County Sheriff's Office. Mastrorocco was arrested Friday morning for a number of felonies, she slipped out of handcuffs and fled the Sheriff's Office, after being charged with Burglary, Grand Larceny, & Conspiracy for a burglary at a Town of Delhi residence on July 17. She was also facing several felony charges for allegedly cashing stolen & forged checks at several financial institutions. Mastrorocco was additionally charged with 2nd degree Escape, she was arraigned and was remanded to the Delaware County Jail on $50,000 cash bail pending further court action.

The State DEC announced Saturday that the alligator spotted near Whitney Point over the last week has been captured. The Alligator was located behind the fairgrounds in Whitney Point and was being transferred and permanently placed at Animal Adventure Park.

Governor Cuomo announced new free sport fishing days on Veterans Day, the weekend preceding Presidents Day, and National Hunting and Fishing Day, the fourth Saturday in September. During these designated free fishing days, New York residents and non-residents are permitted to fish for free without a fishing license. Governor Cuomo also announced that sporting licenses and Deer Management Permits for the 2017-18 season will be available for purchase tomorrow, at any one of DEC's license-issuing agents, at 866-933-2257, or online at decals.dec.ny.gov.

Senator Fred Akshar this week released his latest Community Voice Survey online and by mail to poll the community on various issues facing constituents across the 52nd Senate District. Akshar told WCDO News that even those outside his district are welcomed to share their opinions:

(Akshar 1-19-17)

Akshar said that nearly 70,000 households across the 52nd District would be receiving the survey in the mail, which can also be returned via mail after completion. The online address for the survey is Akshar.NYSenate.Gov.

Test drilling sites have been popping up around Sidney, as the village tries to address lingering water issues, Mayor Andy Matviak addressed their results during Tuesday nights meeting:

(Andy Matviak 1-19-17)

Matviak said that some residents were concerned that the drilling was for natural gas, he said that none of the wells were for that purpose, all were for addressing the existing water problems of the village regarding Manganese & low water pressure in some areas of the village.

In December 2016, New York State’s private sector job count increased by 9,000, or 0.1%, to 7,963,900, a new record high, according to preliminary figures released today by the New York State Department of Labor. Since the beginning of Governor Andrew M. Cuomo’s administration, New York State’s economy has added 869,600 private sector jobs and experienced employment growth in 61 of the past 72 months. In December 2016, New York’s statewide unemployment rate decreased from 5.1% to 4.9%.

The National Baseball Hall of fame announced the election of Jeff Bagwell, Tim Raines and Ivan Rodriguez by the Baseball Writers’ Association of America, the Class of 2017 is now set. The inductees will be inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame at 1:30 PM on Sunday, July 30th at the Clark Sports Center in Cooperstown along with Today’s Game Era electees John Schuerholz and Bud Selig, who were elected in December…2017 Ford C. Frick Award winner Bill King and 2017 Spink Award winner Claire Smith will be honored during Induction Weekend at the Awards Presentation on Saturday, July 29 at Doubleday Field in Cooperstown.

Former Bassett Hospital Doctor, John Davis will speak to the Hartwick Historical Society tonight, regarding his book on Dr. Mary Bassett & The history of Bassett Hospital. The event will begin at 7:00 PM tonight at the Kinney Memorial Library; more information is available at 293-7530.

The Friends of Rogers Environmental Education Center in Sherburne will hold a ribbon cutting today for their welcome center lobby. The event will begin at 5:30 PM and the public is invited to attend.

Reactions from lawmakers are coming in after Governor Cuomo unveiled his Executive budget proposal Tuesday. State Senator Jim Seward commented:

(Seward 1-19-17)

The Governor's budget proposal totals over 152 Billion dollars; lawmakers have until April first to get it passed by the deadline.

Lieutenant Governor Kathy Hochul will present the Governor's State of the State and Budget Proposals this morning at Binghamton University at 11:30. The presentation will be held in the Innovative Technologies Complex Engineering and Science Building at 85 Murray Hill Road. This afternoon Commissioner RoAnn Destito of the Office of General Services will give a presentation of Governor Cuomo’s 2016 Budget Address today at 4:00 PM. The presentation will be held at the Foothills Performing Arts Center on Market Street in Oneonta.

State Police arrested 38 year old Jean-Philippe Baron of Oneonta, for 2 counts of Criminal Mischief and 1 count of Endangering the Welfare of a Child, after troopers responded to a dispute in the Town of Unadilla. An investigation determined that during a verbal dispute with a woman, Baron grabbed a cellphone from her hand and destroyed it before she could call 911 for help, while she was holding a child. He also damaged a barbecue grill, Baron was arraigned in the Town of Unadilla Court and was remanded to the Otsego County Jail with no bail set. His next court date is on February 13, 2017.

P.M. NEWS MONDAY 7-25-16
The National Baseball Hall of Fame's 2016 Induction Ceremony with Mike Piazza & Ken Griffey Jr. drew about 50,000 people to the Clark Sports Center in Cooperstown Sunday. Mike Piazza went first; he discussed his most iconic moment as a New York Met, his late inning homer to give the Meets the lead in the first game At Shea Stadium after the 9/11 attacks:

(Mike Piazza on 9-11-)

Ken Griffey Junior's father, Ken Griffey Senior was an outstanding player in his own right. Junior discussed being able to play in Seattle with his dad briefly, and for his dad taking him the see the Cincinnati Reds "Big Red Machine of the 70's" as a young boy:

(Ken Griffey Jr. on Sr)

Griffey wrapped up his speech by putting on Hall of Fame Baseball cap, and turning it around backwards like he did during his playing days, at the last minute urging of Hall Of Famer Frank Thomas. Hall of Fame Weekend also feature the Saturday Awards Presentation, when Ford C. Frick Award winner the late Graham McNamee and J.G. Taylor Spink Award winner Dan Shaughnessy honored for their broadcasting & writing about Baseball.

SIDNEY HIGH SCHOOL TRACK AND FIELD STANDOUT MALLORY STILLMAN RECENTLY RETURNED FROM A TRIP TO AUSTRALIA AND HAWAII TO COMPETE IN THE "DOWN UNDER SPORTS" GAMES REPRESENTING THE USA. STILLMAN IS A STANDOUT SPRINTER FOR THE WARRIORS AND GOT TO FACE SOME OF THE BEST YOUNG ATHLETES IN THE WORLD AT THE GAMES:

(Mallory Stillman 7-25-16)

STILLMAN HAS MADE IT TO THE NEW YORK STATE TRACK AND FIELD CHAMPIONSHIPS THE PAST 2 YEARS AND HOPES THIS EXPERIENCE WILL HELP HER TO RETURN TO STATES AGAIN NEXT YEAR.

Sidney  officials announced that the Main Street Railroad crossing in Sidney is closed for repairs, until further notice. Village officials said that the repairs may take a day or 2 to complete, motorists are advised to use Union Street as a detour.

NYSEG Reminds area residents to report any downed trees or power lines due to strong summer thunderstorms. Residents are also reminded to never touch downed power lines, call Nyseg & law enforcement immediate if you pot downed power lines. NYSEG customers should call 1.800.572.1131 to report downed power lines or other hazardous situations.

A.M. NEWS Monday 7-25-16
The National Baseball Hall of Fame's 2016 Induction Ceremony with Mike Piazza & Ken Griffey Jr. drew about 50,000 people to the Clark Sports Center in Cooperstown Sunday. Mike Piazza went first, thanking his Parents, Brothers, Wife & Children, Managers, Coaches, and even quoted Teddy Roosevelt at the end of his speech:

(Piazza 7-25-16)

Ken Griffey Junior aso thanked family, friends coaches & Team mates along the way in his emotional speech:

(Griffey 7-25-16)

Griffey wrapped up his speech by putting on Hall of Fame Baseball cap, and turning it around backwards like he did during his playing days. The Hall Of Fame weekend wraps up for Piazza & Griffey Monday with a Roundatable discussion at the Hall, Hall of Fame Weekend also feature the Saturday Awards Presentation, when Ford C. Frick Award winner the late Graham McNamee and J.G. Taylor Spink Award winner Dan Shaughnessy honored for their broadcasting & writing about Baseball.

Last Monday , a Town of North Norwich resident was arrested for Driving While Ability Impaired by Drugs and Driving Across Hazard Markings following a Motor Vehicle Accident in the Town of Norwich. Deputies arrested 30 year old Robert Youngblood following a one car motor vehicle collision on State Highway 12 in the Town of Norwich, he was found to be operating a motor vehicle while being in an impaired state due to drugs. Youngblood was issued tickets to appear in the Town of Norwich Court at a later date. The collision caused a utility pole to be severed, State Highway 12 had to be closed for 8 ½ hours while NYSEG worked on the lines.

Governor Cuomo today announced that $3 million is available from the Environmental Protection Fund in grants to assist municipalities in New York State with recent, unexpected costs of collection and recycling of eligible electronic wastes. New York State consumers are required to recycle electronic waste, such as computers, keyboards, televisions, and small electronic equipment, in an environmentally responsible manner. These grants, part of the FY2017 State Budget’s record $300 million investment in the Environmental Protection Fund, will mitigate the growing unexpected financial costs so that municipalities can recycle electronic waste efficiently and sustainably.

Delaware County Sheriff's Deputies are currently investigating a number of recently reported thefts of cash, produce and farm other products from self-serve farm stands located on the County Highway 18 between Delhi and South Kortright, as well as on East Bramley Mountain Road in Bovina Center. Anyone with information concerning these or other thefts from a farm stand or, who observes unusual or suspicious activity in the area of a farm stand, to contact the Delaware County Sheriff's Office at (607) 832-5555. All calls remain confidential.

The Sidney Civic Center Has Been sold to 2+4 management of East Syracuse for $364,000, with the closing coming in October. Mayor Andy Matviak explains:

(Andy Matviak 7-22-16)

Matviak said that construction would start on the 2nd & 3rd floors after the closing; 2+4 Management is the same developer behind the Sherwood Heights project.

Governor Cuomo today signed legislation that eliminates sales tax on feminine hygiene products. The bill exempts these products from all local and State sales tax, Feminine hygiene products have been taxable since the state sales tax was first instituted in 1965, even as a wide variety of other goods, such as dietary and family planning products, have been exempt. The new exemption is expected to save women purchasing tampons, and other similar products, an estimated $10 million a year.

Governor Cuomo today signed legislation expanding New York State's "Move-Over" Law to volunteer firefighters and ambulance workers. The measure requires drivers to slow down and move over a lane when approaching a vehicle with flashing blue or green lights that are operated by volunteer firefighters or ambulance workers involved in a roadside emergency. Previously, the “Move-Over” law only applied to drivers approaching stopped police, emergency or hazard vehicles with flashing red and white or amber lights.

Magic City Music Hall in Binghamton was advised Thursday evening that a member of Quiet Riot, who were scheduled to appear Saturday night, was hospitalized yesterday afternoon, necessitating cancellation of the band's upcoming show. Magic City Officials are working with management to reschedule the show, in the meantime; Quiet Riot Tickets may be redeemed for a credit towards any other announced concert at Magic City, including Ace Frehley on Saturday September 24th or for a refund. Magic City has also just announced that Sister Hazel will perform there on September 9th; tickets go on sale on Saturday July 30th.

The New York State Office of Alcoholism and Substance Abuse Services awarded $1 million in funding to support 25 new treatment beds to provide care for New Yorkers with substance use disorders. The funding was awarded to Tompkins County addiction treatment services provider Cayuga Addiction Recovery Services for the creation of a new 25-bed adult residential treatment facility. The residential treatment facility in Trumansburg will offer a full spectrum of addiction treatment services to residents including counseling, life-skills training and after-discharge support.

The 1st annual Pound 4 Paws fundraising event will be held in Oxford Saturday night. A variety of sporting competitions will be held, sponsored by the Pound Gym in Norwich, proceeds will go to the Delaware Valley Humane society, the event starts at 7:00 PM Saturday at 207 Tamarac Road in Oxford.

The National Baseball Hall of Fame's 2016 Induction Ceremony will Ken Griffey Jr.& Mike Piazza, beginning at 1:30 PM Sunday at the Clark Sports Center. Hall of Fame Weekend will also feature the Saturday Awards Presentation, when Ford C. Frick Award winner Graham McNamee and J.G. Taylor Spink Award winner Dan Shaughnessy will each be honored. On Saturday in Cooperstown, will be the Parade of Legends down main Street, and on Monday, Piazza & Griffey will participate in the Legends of the Game Roundtable discussion.

On Saturday, the Bainbridge Chamber of Commerce will host the Bainbridge Summer Fest with a variety of event & a showcase the new sound system for use during village and town events. Spokesperson June White Comments

(June White 7-22-16)

White said that at 7:00 pm, one of Payne's Cranes would drop 400 golf balls on the lawn next to the Methodist Church. There will be prizes for the Golf balls that are closest to the hole; tickets can be purchased at Hometown Hardware, Highway 7 Bar and Grill, B&W Wines and Liquors LLC, Nana's Keepsakes, New Image Hair Care, Newbauer's Construction and Bainbridge House Bed and Breakfast. Also, at 8:00 pm "Footloose" will be featured as The Movie in the park.

Governor Cuomo signed legislation that requires guidelines for end of life notices and visitation rights regarding incapacitated individuals subject of legal guardianship proceedings. The bill requires the court order appointing a guardian to oversee the care of an incapacitated person to identify all individuals who are entitled to notice of a person's death, funeral and burial arrangements.

State Senator Fred Akshar of Colesville announced his official candidacy for reelection at his First Annual "Spiedies with the Senator" event at Chenango Valley State Park. Akshar was elected in a special election last year to finish up the term, following the conviction of the late Senator Tom Libous.

Roofing materials caught fire at the East Middle School in Binghamton yesterday afternoon. The building was having roof work done, none of the workers were injured, the fire was knocked down in about an hour, and a structural engineer will inspect the roof as soon as possible.

It will be a busy weekend in Cooperstown this weekend, as the annual Hall of Fame induction ceremonies will be held. Padres announcer Dick Enberg will be honored with the Hall of Fame’s Ford C. Frick Award Saturday, on Sunday, The annual Induction Ceremony will begin at 1:30 p.m. at the Clark Sports Center, Craig Biggio, Randy Johnson, Pedro Martínez and John Smoltz will be inducted.

The Sidney Chamber of Commerce Arts & Music festival will be held in downtown Sidney tomorrow. Sidney Chamber Spokesperson Kerri Green comments:

(Kerri Green 7-24-15)

Arts & craft Vendors will be lined up on Main Street starting at 9:00 AM, there will be food and The Cullman Child Development Center will hold their annual Community day event on main street.

Tomorrow from 9:00 am to 3:00pm, on Genesee Street, in Greene, The Greater Greene Chamber of Commerce is holding the 39th annual craft festival. More than 200 artisans exhibit their arts and crafts on the streets of Greene, more information is available at greenenys.com, or 656-8225.

The annual Mount Upton Community Days will be held tomorrow from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM. There will be various kid’s games, a variety of vendors, Town wide garage sales & a Chicken Barbecue.