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WCDO News — Wednesday 12-31-14
Governor Cuomo signed legislation designed to improve the ability of workers and the Department of Labor to tackle wage theft in New York State. The legislation improves on the 2010 Wage Theft Prevention Act, it contains additional improvements in retaliation protections for vulnerable workers, transparency provisions to help advocates and workers identify cases of wage theft, and it also streamlines reporting provisions to lessen burdens on law-abiding employers.
State Senator Jim Seward & Otsego County Sheriff Richard Devlin will be sworn in for another term each at their respective positions, tomorrow at the Otsego County Courthouse in Cooperstown. Seward will be sworn into office for his 15th 2-year senate term. Otsego County Representative Rick Hulse Jr. will serve as master of ceremonies. Supreme Court Justice Michael Coccoma and Otsego County Judge Brian Burns will administer the oath of office; the ceremony begins at 1:00 p.m. at the County Courthouse at 197 Main Street Cooperstown.
The Governor’s 2015 State of the State Address will be held at the Convention Center in Albany’s Empire State Plaza on January 7th at 1:30 PM. New Yorkers wishing to attend should visit governor.ny.gov to register, from today until Monday, January 5th at 12:00 PM. Seating is limited and tickets are non-transferable. In the event that the number of requests exceeds available seating, attendees will be selected by lottery. Guests will be notified of their selection via email by January 5th.
State DMV Commissioner Barbara Fiala of Binghamton is retiring. Fiala served as the Broome County Executive before taking over the DMV in 2011 when she was appointed by Governor Cuomo. A successor for Fiala has not yet been announced.
The Broome County Legislature has passed a law that increases their pay. The new law would tie increases in pay for non-union county employees to the raises negotiated for union workers. The bill passed by a 9-4 vote Monday night. It still faces a public hearing and the signature of County Executive Debbie Preston before becoming law.
Governor Cuomo announced that 4 new outdoor access projects are now complete and open for public use. One of the projects is the Colliersville Boat Launch in the Town of Milford, where $17,160 was used for a canoe/kayak slide and stairs to access the Susquehanna River. More information is available at dec.ny.gov.
An Otsego county couple will be featured on ABC TV news’s 20/20 Friday night. Paul Sohacki & Katherine Gannon lived on 12 acres near Cooperstown, they were arrested after making complaints to the county District Attorney’s office about their neighbor Gene Ellis, whose driveway to access his land crosses slightly onto the couples land. The couple recorded videos of Ellis using the driveway in question, the investigation & complaints by a 3rd party led to Sohacki & Gannon facing charges of stalking Ellis. The segment will run on ABC television Friday night starting at 10:00 pm.
State Senator Jim Seward & Otsego County Sheriff Richard Devlin will be sworn in for another term each at their respective positions, tomorrow at the Otsego County Courthouse in Cooperstown. Seward will be sworn into office for his 15th 2-year senate term. Otsego County Representative Rick Hulse Jr. will serve as master of ceremonies. Supreme Court Justice Michael Coccoma and Otsego County Judge Brian Burns will administer the oath of office; the ceremony begins at 1:00 p.m. at the County Courthouse at 197 Main Street Cooperstown.
The Governor’s 2015 State of the State Address will be held at the Convention Center in Albany’s Empire State Plaza on January 7th at 1:30 PM. New Yorkers wishing to attend should visit governor.ny.gov to register, from today until Monday, January 5th at 12:00 PM. Seating is limited and tickets are non-transferable. In the event that the number of requests exceeds available seating, attendees will be selected by lottery. Guests will be notified of their selection via email by January 5th.
State DMV Commissioner Barbara Fiala of Binghamton is retiring. Fiala served as the Broome County Executive before taking over the DMV in 2011 when she was appointed by Governor Cuomo. A successor for Fiala has not yet been announced.
The Broome County Legislature has passed a law that increases their pay. The new law would tie increases in pay for non-union county employees to the raises negotiated for union workers. The bill passed by a 9-4 vote Monday night. It still faces a public hearing and the signature of County Executive Debbie Preston before becoming law.
Governor Cuomo announced that 4 new outdoor access projects are now complete and open for public use. One of the projects is the Colliersville Boat Launch in the Town of Milford, where $17,160 was used for a canoe/kayak slide and stairs to access the Susquehanna River. More information is available at dec.ny.gov.
An Otsego county couple will be featured on ABC TV news’s 20/20 Friday night. Paul Sohacki & Katherine Gannon lived on 12 acres near Cooperstown, they were arrested after making complaints to the county District Attorney’s office about their neighbor Gene Ellis, whose driveway to access his land crosses slightly onto the couples land. The couple recorded videos of Ellis using the driveway in question, the investigation & complaints by a 3rd party led to Sohacki & Gannon facing charges of stalking Ellis. The segment will run on ABC television Friday night starting at 10:00 pm.
WCDO News — Wednesday 12-24-14
NEWS 12-24-14
State Police will be out in full force for the Christmas holiday. Police will be looking for aggressive drivers, drunk drivers, as well as motorists who are using cell phones for calling or texting, and they will be looking for compliance to seat belt laws and the new “Move Over” laws.
Free Christmas dinners are being offered for those who are struggling, or who have no family visiting this year, at the River Club in Afton Christmas day, with deliveries available within a 10-mile radius, toys have also been collected & will be distributed to children in attendance. No reservations are necessary, dinner will be served from 12:00 Noon to 2:30 PM, deliveries can be arranged by calling 639-3060. In Sidney, a free Christmas day dinner is also being offered at the river street fire station from 1:00 to 4:00 pm.
State Comptroller Tom DiNapoli reminds New Yorkers that contributions to a New York State 529 College Savings Program account are tax deductible. The 529 College Savings Program is designed to help parents save for college, ranks among the best in the nation, and Contributions made by December 31 can provide up to $10,000 in state tax deductions on 2014 tax filings. More information is available at osc.state.ny.us/college.
The parent company of the Constitution Pipeline has filed eminent domain proceedings against 55 landowners along the proposed pipeline route from Northeast Pennsylvania through the Southern Tier & into Schoharie County. The Pipeline’s proposed 124-mile route travels through Broome Chenango & Delaware Counties locally, the project recently received approval from the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission to continue, they look to begin construction as soon as possible.
The state labor department has released the unemployment statistics for November. Locally Chenango county rate dropped to 5.7%, Delaware County’s rate was down to 6.3% and Otsego County dropped to 5.5% in November.
State Police will be out in full force for the Christmas holiday. Police will be looking for aggressive drivers, drunk drivers, as well as motorists who are using cell phones for calling or texting, and they will be looking for compliance to seat belt laws and the new “Move Over” laws.
Free Christmas dinners are being offered for those who are struggling, or who have no family visiting this year, at the River Club in Afton Christmas day, with deliveries available within a 10-mile radius, toys have also been collected & will be distributed to children in attendance. No reservations are necessary, dinner will be served from 12:00 Noon to 2:30 PM, deliveries can be arranged by calling 639-3060. In Sidney, a free Christmas day dinner is also being offered at the river street fire station from 1:00 to 4:00 pm.
State Comptroller Tom DiNapoli reminds New Yorkers that contributions to a New York State 529 College Savings Program account are tax deductible. The 529 College Savings Program is designed to help parents save for college, ranks among the best in the nation, and Contributions made by December 31 can provide up to $10,000 in state tax deductions on 2014 tax filings. More information is available at osc.state.ny.us/college.
The parent company of the Constitution Pipeline has filed eminent domain proceedings against 55 landowners along the proposed pipeline route from Northeast Pennsylvania through the Southern Tier & into Schoharie County. The Pipeline’s proposed 124-mile route travels through Broome Chenango & Delaware Counties locally, the project recently received approval from the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission to continue, they look to begin construction as soon as possible.
The state labor department has released the unemployment statistics for November. Locally Chenango county rate dropped to 5.7%, Delaware County’s rate was down to 6.3% and Otsego County dropped to 5.5% in November.
WCDO News — Sunday 12-21-14
P.m. news Friday 12-19
New Yorkers oppose giving the state Legislature its first raise since 1999, and they remained split over whether the state should have moved forward with hydraulic fracturing, according to a Siena College poll. Voters oppose a legislative pay raise, 63 to 28%. Despite voters being evenly split upstate, the state's tough gun-control law called the SAFE Act was supported, 58 to 33% statewide. Voters were also evenly divided on the Dream Act that would provide tuition assistance to illegal immigrants, with 44% supporting it and 48% opposing it. Governor Cuomo had a 58% to 37% favorability rating, up slightly from October.
Action has been taken against several retailers after an investigation revealed many were selling toy guns that appear to be real. Attorney General Eric Schneiderman's office sent cease and desist letters to stop the online sales and shipments of toy guns that do not have required distinguishing designs. State law prohibits the sale of imitation guns in realistic colors, unless it has a one-inch wide orange stripe running down both sides of the barrel. Some toy guns could be mistaken for real weapons by both law enforcement and the general public. Since 1997, at least four people have died when law enforcement mistook toy guns for the real thing.
Governor Cuomo announced that the next phase of New York’s Combat Heroin campaign. Starting today, public service announcements will begin airing in movie theaters across New York State & 10 new “Real Story” videos have been posted to the state’s Combat Heroin website, at combatheroin.ny.gov. The PSAs and new videos show New Yorkers sharing their stories of recovery and addiction, the PSAs will be shown in movie theaters through early January, The Combat Heroin website now has 22 videos of New Yorkers describing heroin or prescription opioid addictions. combatheroin.ny.gov/real-stories.
The state DEC is reminding New Yorkers that as of January 1st, old electronic equipment must be recycled, not thrown in the trash. That includes computers, cell phones, televisions, stereos and other devices that plug in or run on batteries. On DEC's electronics recycling web page, consumers will find the brand of equipment they wish to recycle, as well as a link to the manufacturer's recycling program web page and a toll-free number for information about recycling. Go to dec.ny.gov
About three quarters of public high school students in New York graduated on time in June, though graduation rates in the state's largest cities remain far lower, according to data released by the state Education Department. A total of 76.4% of students who entered 9th grade in 2010 graduated with a diploma before June 2014, up slightly from the 74.9% who graduated within 4 years the previous year.
Governor Cuomo signed legislation opening the door for growing and researching industrial hemp in New York. The bill, introduced by Assemblywoman Donna Lupardo, creates an agriculture pilot program to study ways to cultivate and manufacture products with the multi-use crop. It passed both houses of the State Legislature in the spring. Colleges and universities, including Cornell, Binghamton University, may take part in New York's research program.
The Sidney Moose lodge will host a meeting for area children with Santa tomorrow. Santa will appear from 1:00 to 3:00 PM following a lunch from noon to 1;00 PM, lunch is free to children 13 & under. the Sidney moose lodge is located at 20 east Main Street.
New Yorkers oppose giving the state Legislature its first raise since 1999, and they remained split over whether the state should have moved forward with hydraulic fracturing, according to a Siena College poll. Voters oppose a legislative pay raise, 63 to 28%. Despite voters being evenly split upstate, the state's tough gun-control law called the SAFE Act was supported, 58 to 33% statewide. Voters were also evenly divided on the Dream Act that would provide tuition assistance to illegal immigrants, with 44% supporting it and 48% opposing it. Governor Cuomo had a 58% to 37% favorability rating, up slightly from October.
Action has been taken against several retailers after an investigation revealed many were selling toy guns that appear to be real. Attorney General Eric Schneiderman's office sent cease and desist letters to stop the online sales and shipments of toy guns that do not have required distinguishing designs. State law prohibits the sale of imitation guns in realistic colors, unless it has a one-inch wide orange stripe running down both sides of the barrel. Some toy guns could be mistaken for real weapons by both law enforcement and the general public. Since 1997, at least four people have died when law enforcement mistook toy guns for the real thing.
Governor Cuomo announced that the next phase of New York’s Combat Heroin campaign. Starting today, public service announcements will begin airing in movie theaters across New York State & 10 new “Real Story” videos have been posted to the state’s Combat Heroin website, at combatheroin.ny.gov. The PSAs and new videos show New Yorkers sharing their stories of recovery and addiction, the PSAs will be shown in movie theaters through early January, The Combat Heroin website now has 22 videos of New Yorkers describing heroin or prescription opioid addictions. combatheroin.ny.gov/real-stories.
The state DEC is reminding New Yorkers that as of January 1st, old electronic equipment must be recycled, not thrown in the trash. That includes computers, cell phones, televisions, stereos and other devices that plug in or run on batteries. On DEC's electronics recycling web page, consumers will find the brand of equipment they wish to recycle, as well as a link to the manufacturer's recycling program web page and a toll-free number for information about recycling. Go to dec.ny.gov
About three quarters of public high school students in New York graduated on time in June, though graduation rates in the state's largest cities remain far lower, according to data released by the state Education Department. A total of 76.4% of students who entered 9th grade in 2010 graduated with a diploma before June 2014, up slightly from the 74.9% who graduated within 4 years the previous year.
Governor Cuomo signed legislation opening the door for growing and researching industrial hemp in New York. The bill, introduced by Assemblywoman Donna Lupardo, creates an agriculture pilot program to study ways to cultivate and manufacture products with the multi-use crop. It passed both houses of the State Legislature in the spring. Colleges and universities, including Cornell, Binghamton University, may take part in New York's research program.
The Sidney Moose lodge will host a meeting for area children with Santa tomorrow. Santa will appear from 1:00 to 3:00 PM following a lunch from noon to 1;00 PM, lunch is free to children 13 & under. the Sidney moose lodge is located at 20 east Main Street.
WCDO News — Friday 12-19-14
A.m. news Friday 12-19-14
Governor Cuomo announced the release of proposed regulations for the State
Governor Cuomo announced the release of proposed regulations for the State
WCDO News — Thursday 12-4-14
Walton police arrested 33 year old Lloyd Hunt of Unadilla and 30 year old Jeremy Stafford of Walton, in connection with the armed robbery of a Walton tobacco shop last week. Hunt & Stafford were charged with 1st degree robbery and 3rd degree criminal possession of a weapon, plus petty larceny, both were arraigned, Hunt was sent to jail on $50,000 bail and Stafford was jailed on $30,000 bail, for the armed robbery on November 28th at the Smoker's Choice shop, the investigation into the robbery is continuing.
Senator Kirsten Gillibrand is making another bipartisan push to change how the military handles allegations of sexual assault. This time, she has a new ally — the former chief prosecutor of the Air Force. Retired Col. Don Christensen joined Gillibrand at a news conference to request a floor vote on Gillibrand's Military Justice Improvement Act, which would remove commanders from the process of deciding whether to prosecute sexual assault cases and turn that responsibility over to military prosecutors. Gillibrand's bill received 55 votes earlier this year, five short of the 60 needed to overcome a threatened filibuster. The House and Senate Armed Services Committees are working on a compromise version of the bill.
The American Red Cross asks eligible donors to give blood this holiday season. Blood donations often decline this time of year, Eligible donors with all types are needed, especially those with O negative, A negative and B negative. Appointments can be scheduled at redcrossblood.org or call 1-800-RED CROSS, a blood drive is being held today in Oneonta from 12:00 Noon to 5:00 PM at the State University,
The Norwich Business Improvement District announced that the annual tree lighting ceremony is tonight at 6:30 pm, at East, West and Gordon Parks. Santa will be in his igloo in East Park.
The Bainbridge-Guilford Central School will hold a Board of Education Meeting today in the District Conference Room at 6:30 PM. The business portion of the meeting will start at 7:00 PM.
Senator Kirsten Gillibrand is making another bipartisan push to change how the military handles allegations of sexual assault. This time, she has a new ally — the former chief prosecutor of the Air Force. Retired Col. Don Christensen joined Gillibrand at a news conference to request a floor vote on Gillibrand's Military Justice Improvement Act, which would remove commanders from the process of deciding whether to prosecute sexual assault cases and turn that responsibility over to military prosecutors. Gillibrand's bill received 55 votes earlier this year, five short of the 60 needed to overcome a threatened filibuster. The House and Senate Armed Services Committees are working on a compromise version of the bill.
The American Red Cross asks eligible donors to give blood this holiday season. Blood donations often decline this time of year, Eligible donors with all types are needed, especially those with O negative, A negative and B negative. Appointments can be scheduled at redcrossblood.org or call 1-800-RED CROSS, a blood drive is being held today in Oneonta from 12:00 Noon to 5:00 PM at the State University,
The Norwich Business Improvement District announced that the annual tree lighting ceremony is tonight at 6:30 pm, at East, West and Gordon Parks. Santa will be in his igloo in East Park.
The Bainbridge-Guilford Central School will hold a Board of Education Meeting today in the District Conference Room at 6:30 PM. The business portion of the meeting will start at 7:00 PM.
WCDO News — Wednesday 11-26-14
NYSEG crews are getting prepared for the winter storm that is hitting the region today & early tomorrow. Nyseg officials remind customers to Keep flashlights, a battery-powered radio or TV and fresh batteries handy for this or any storm situation, have at least 1 telephone that is not dependent on electricity with batteries fully charged, Keep a supply of non-perishable food and bottled water on hand. Officials said that during a power interruption; report it to NYSEG at 1-800-572-1131 or at nyseg.com.
State Troopers arrested 39 year old Timothy Collins of Andes for felony Aggravated Driving While Intoxicated, after a traffic stop for failing to keep right on State Route 28 in Andes. Collins is accused of driving while intoxicated with 6 year old and 9 year old passengers in the vehicle. Collins was issued tickets returnable on December 11th to the Town of Andes Court.
The State Department of Taxation and Finance kicked off the holiday shopping season today by reminding New York consumers and merchants that items of clothing and footwear sold for less than $110 are exempt from New York State’s 4% sales tax. Clothing and footwear items under $110 are completely tax free, tanks to the actions taken by the governments of new York city & 8 upstate counties, with the local portion of their sales tax those items, also exempted, locally that includes Chenango & Delaware Counties.
State Senator Jim Seward announced a consumer protection measure for life insurance policyholders, which amends the Life Insurance Company Guaranty Corporation of New York Act to protect policyholders in the event of an insurance company’s bankruptcy. The law also allows for the creation of a non-profit resolution facility, which would administer and undertake the business of an insolvent insurance company. The new state law will take effect immediately.
Broome County adopted a $365 million budget for 2015 that has a slight increase in property taxes, along with declines in spending and revenue. Executive Debbie Preston proposed a plan in September that called for $10.5 million less in spending than in 2014, and $13.7 million less in revenue. It would raise the property tax levy 2.5 percent, while predicting $6 million less in sales tax revenue. Last week, her office declined to veto three changes proposed by the legislature, effectively adopting the budget
Labor advocates and religious leaders gathered yesterday at the state Capitol to deliver a message to state lawmakers: Don't raise your pay without raising the minimum wage. About a dozen representatives from labor unions, food pantries and faith organizations held a news conference to make their case. Leaders in the state Senate and Assembly support increasing lawmakers' salary. A special session of the Legislature would have to be called before year's end in order for a raise to take effect in January. In 2013, lawmakers approved an incremental increase, raising the rate to the current $8 an hour before it increases to $8.75 on Dec. 31 and $9 on Dec. 31, 2015
State Troopers arrested 39 year old Timothy Collins of Andes for felony Aggravated Driving While Intoxicated, after a traffic stop for failing to keep right on State Route 28 in Andes. Collins is accused of driving while intoxicated with 6 year old and 9 year old passengers in the vehicle. Collins was issued tickets returnable on December 11th to the Town of Andes Court.
The State Department of Taxation and Finance kicked off the holiday shopping season today by reminding New York consumers and merchants that items of clothing and footwear sold for less than $110 are exempt from New York State’s 4% sales tax. Clothing and footwear items under $110 are completely tax free, tanks to the actions taken by the governments of new York city & 8 upstate counties, with the local portion of their sales tax those items, also exempted, locally that includes Chenango & Delaware Counties.
State Senator Jim Seward announced a consumer protection measure for life insurance policyholders, which amends the Life Insurance Company Guaranty Corporation of New York Act to protect policyholders in the event of an insurance company’s bankruptcy. The law also allows for the creation of a non-profit resolution facility, which would administer and undertake the business of an insolvent insurance company. The new state law will take effect immediately.
Broome County adopted a $365 million budget for 2015 that has a slight increase in property taxes, along with declines in spending and revenue. Executive Debbie Preston proposed a plan in September that called for $10.5 million less in spending than in 2014, and $13.7 million less in revenue. It would raise the property tax levy 2.5 percent, while predicting $6 million less in sales tax revenue. Last week, her office declined to veto three changes proposed by the legislature, effectively adopting the budget
Labor advocates and religious leaders gathered yesterday at the state Capitol to deliver a message to state lawmakers: Don't raise your pay without raising the minimum wage. About a dozen representatives from labor unions, food pantries and faith organizations held a news conference to make their case. Leaders in the state Senate and Assembly support increasing lawmakers' salary. A special session of the Legislature would have to be called before year's end in order for a raise to take effect in January. In 2013, lawmakers approved an incremental increase, raising the rate to the current $8 an hour before it increases to $8.75 on Dec. 31 and $9 on Dec. 31, 2015
WCDO News — Tuesday 11-18-14
State Police are investigating an armed robbery Saturday night outside the Citizens Bank on River Road in the town of Chenango. 3 victims employed at the Red & White grocery store & Guiseppe’s pizza, were robbed at knifepoint when they attempted to make a night bank drop off. The suspect was described as a male who is 6 ft - 6 ft 2 inches tall and 200 lbs to 225 pounds, wearing all black clothing and a black mask. The assailant stole an undisclosed amount of cash & fled on foot, anyone with information is asked to contact the State Police at 775-1241.
The Toys for Tots train will be coming to Bainbridge on Saturday, December 6th at 12:00 NOON! The train will be stopping at the Walnut Street crossing, participants are asked to bring a toy to donate to the Toys for Tots campaign. The Bainbridge Chamber of Commerce is sponsoring this event.
State Senator Tom Libous of Binghamton will remain the #2 Republican in the Senate leadership despite lingering cancer issues & legal problems. Libous told WCDO News that the state is moving in the right direction and he enjoys being a part of it:
(Libous 11-18-14)
Libous still faces a charge of lying to the FBI in a case involving his son receiving a job at a politically connected law firm, he also continues to undergo cancer treatments, which he tries to schedule around his hectic schedule.
State Police arrested 29-year-old Benjamin Ryan of Oxford for Felony DWI, & Criminal Possession of a Weapon. The arrest resulted from a vehicle stop for failing to stop at a stop sign on State Route 7 in Unadilla, the investigation determined that Ryan was driving while intoxicated, a check of his criminal history showed that he had a prior conviction for DWI and a prior felony conviction. During an inventory of the vehicle, Ryan was accused of unlawfully possessing a bolt-action rifle. Ryan was arraigned at the Town of Unadilla Court and remanded to the Otsego County Jail without bail.
After New York voters approved 4 upstate casinos last November, 4 Atlantic City casinos have closed and new casinos opened or were approved in Maryland, Pennsylvania and Massachusetts. State regulators may award only 3 licenses instead of the 4 authorized in the 2013 referendum. The state board reviewing casino pitches is expected to make its decisions later this month, with 16 proposals vying for licenses to be split among the Capital Region, the Finger Lakes/Southern Tier region and the Catskills.
Republican State Senate Majority Leader Dean Skelos supports giving New York lawmakers their first pay hike in 14 years, which may lead to the Legislature coming back to Albany before January to approve it. Senate Republicans met behind closed doors at the state Capitol, where they re-elected Skelos to another two-year term as their leader. Governor Cuomo hasn’t discussed a pay increase for lawmakers, he would have to call a special session of the Legislature before January for the pay increase to be voted on.
A proposal to build a taxiway at the Oneonta municipal airport will be addressed by the Oneonta Common Council during a meeting tonight. Federal and state grants have been approved for construction of a partial parallel taxiway. The council also will consider a lease agreement with the Oneonta Little League for use of the Swart Wilcox “Richard Murphy” Field; funding steps for the Wilber Park bridge replacement project; business contracts and adopting a local law setting certain tax abatements for local housing. The meeting will be in Common Council Chambers on the second floor of City Hall at 7:00 PM.
The Toys for Tots train will be coming to Bainbridge on Saturday, December 6th at 12:00 NOON! The train will be stopping at the Walnut Street crossing, participants are asked to bring a toy to donate to the Toys for Tots campaign. The Bainbridge Chamber of Commerce is sponsoring this event.
State Senator Tom Libous of Binghamton will remain the #2 Republican in the Senate leadership despite lingering cancer issues & legal problems. Libous told WCDO News that the state is moving in the right direction and he enjoys being a part of it:
(Libous 11-18-14)
Libous still faces a charge of lying to the FBI in a case involving his son receiving a job at a politically connected law firm, he also continues to undergo cancer treatments, which he tries to schedule around his hectic schedule.
State Police arrested 29-year-old Benjamin Ryan of Oxford for Felony DWI, & Criminal Possession of a Weapon. The arrest resulted from a vehicle stop for failing to stop at a stop sign on State Route 7 in Unadilla, the investigation determined that Ryan was driving while intoxicated, a check of his criminal history showed that he had a prior conviction for DWI and a prior felony conviction. During an inventory of the vehicle, Ryan was accused of unlawfully possessing a bolt-action rifle. Ryan was arraigned at the Town of Unadilla Court and remanded to the Otsego County Jail without bail.
After New York voters approved 4 upstate casinos last November, 4 Atlantic City casinos have closed and new casinos opened or were approved in Maryland, Pennsylvania and Massachusetts. State regulators may award only 3 licenses instead of the 4 authorized in the 2013 referendum. The state board reviewing casino pitches is expected to make its decisions later this month, with 16 proposals vying for licenses to be split among the Capital Region, the Finger Lakes/Southern Tier region and the Catskills.
Republican State Senate Majority Leader Dean Skelos supports giving New York lawmakers their first pay hike in 14 years, which may lead to the Legislature coming back to Albany before January to approve it. Senate Republicans met behind closed doors at the state Capitol, where they re-elected Skelos to another two-year term as their leader. Governor Cuomo hasn’t discussed a pay increase for lawmakers, he would have to call a special session of the Legislature before January for the pay increase to be voted on.
A proposal to build a taxiway at the Oneonta municipal airport will be addressed by the Oneonta Common Council during a meeting tonight. Federal and state grants have been approved for construction of a partial parallel taxiway. The council also will consider a lease agreement with the Oneonta Little League for use of the Swart Wilcox “Richard Murphy” Field; funding steps for the Wilber Park bridge replacement project; business contracts and adopting a local law setting certain tax abatements for local housing. The meeting will be in Common Council Chambers on the second floor of City Hall at 7:00 PM.
WCDO News — Friday 11-14-14
The Southern Tier Independence Center is offering help to those looking to enroll in the next round for the Affordable Care Act starting tomorrow. Center spokesman Chad Eldred explains:
(Chad Eldred 11-14-14)
Those who would like more information about the Center can call 724-2111 or log on at stic-cil.org.
Sidney school District Special Education teacher Tauna LaBare has initiated a fundraising campaign with the faculty& staff to purchase red and white striped socks, with all proceeds go to the Ronald McDonald house where student Francisco LaBoy & his mother have stayed, while he received treatment for a brain tumor. LaBare told WCDO news about their plans:
(Tauna LaBare 11-14-14)
The special striped sock can be purchased by the public through the Sidney school website. through the November 25th as "Wear Your Stripes To Show You Care Day." more information about Ronald McDonald house is available at rmhcrochester.org.
Governor Cuomo has signed legislation to start the $2 million “Craft Beverage Marketing and Promotion Grant Program,” as well as a $1 million “Craft Beverage Industry Tourism Promotion Grant.” The Craft New York Act allows producers to conduct tastings and serve “by the bottle” and “by the glass”; it permits farm distilleries to increase the retail outlets where they can sell their products; it also reduces the costs for small manufacturers by increasing the production cap and permitting the development of more products without increasing fees. Since 2011, 220 farm-based businesses have opened in New York, including 101 new wineries, 62 breweries, 49 distilleries, and 8 cideries.
Next week, several locations in the Delaware County area will serve as collection sites for "Operation Christmas Child". The annual project consists of filling shoeboxes with toys, school supplies and notes of encouragement. Local Collection Sites will include the Sidney 1st Baptist Church, The New Hope Community Church in Walton, & the Stamford Baptist Church 40 Lake Street. More information is available at samaritanspurse.org.
Detectives and missing-persons bureaus would have an easier time updating the national database on missing children under legislation that could pass the US Senate shortly. The bill would reauthorize the 1974 Runaway and Homeless Youth & Trafficking Prevention Act, it would allow local law enforcement to update records in the National Crime Information Center without getting prior approval from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children or the originating agency. 10,312 children were reported missing in 2013 in upstate New York and the Hudson Valley, and 1,269 of those cases were still active at the end of last year.
School groups said an additional $1.9 billion is needed to fund education in the fiscal year that starts April 1st. The groups said the nearly 9% increase in state aid would help schools maintain services and fund new initiatives. New York spends the most per capita in the nation on schools, at $19,076 per student, and puts more than $22 billion a year into education, including a 5% increase in the current fiscal year. About $1 billion has been withheld in recent years through the “Gap Elimination Adjustment” .
(Chad Eldred 11-14-14)
Those who would like more information about the Center can call 724-2111 or log on at stic-cil.org.
Sidney school District Special Education teacher Tauna LaBare has initiated a fundraising campaign with the faculty& staff to purchase red and white striped socks, with all proceeds go to the Ronald McDonald house where student Francisco LaBoy & his mother have stayed, while he received treatment for a brain tumor. LaBare told WCDO news about their plans:
(Tauna LaBare 11-14-14)
The special striped sock can be purchased by the public through the Sidney school website. through the November 25th as "Wear Your Stripes To Show You Care Day." more information about Ronald McDonald house is available at rmhcrochester.org.
Governor Cuomo has signed legislation to start the $2 million “Craft Beverage Marketing and Promotion Grant Program,” as well as a $1 million “Craft Beverage Industry Tourism Promotion Grant.” The Craft New York Act allows producers to conduct tastings and serve “by the bottle” and “by the glass”; it permits farm distilleries to increase the retail outlets where they can sell their products; it also reduces the costs for small manufacturers by increasing the production cap and permitting the development of more products without increasing fees. Since 2011, 220 farm-based businesses have opened in New York, including 101 new wineries, 62 breweries, 49 distilleries, and 8 cideries.
Next week, several locations in the Delaware County area will serve as collection sites for "Operation Christmas Child". The annual project consists of filling shoeboxes with toys, school supplies and notes of encouragement. Local Collection Sites will include the Sidney 1st Baptist Church, The New Hope Community Church in Walton, & the Stamford Baptist Church 40 Lake Street. More information is available at samaritanspurse.org.
Detectives and missing-persons bureaus would have an easier time updating the national database on missing children under legislation that could pass the US Senate shortly. The bill would reauthorize the 1974 Runaway and Homeless Youth & Trafficking Prevention Act, it would allow local law enforcement to update records in the National Crime Information Center without getting prior approval from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children or the originating agency. 10,312 children were reported missing in 2013 in upstate New York and the Hudson Valley, and 1,269 of those cases were still active at the end of last year.
School groups said an additional $1.9 billion is needed to fund education in the fiscal year that starts April 1st. The groups said the nearly 9% increase in state aid would help schools maintain services and fund new initiatives. New York spends the most per capita in the nation on schools, at $19,076 per student, and puts more than $22 billion a year into education, including a 5% increase in the current fiscal year. About $1 billion has been withheld in recent years through the “Gap Elimination Adjustment” .
WCDO News — Tuesday 11-4-14
A.m. news Tuesday 11-4-14
It's Election Day, with the big races on the ballot. The race for governor pits incumbent Democrat Andrew Cuomo, against Republican Rob Astorino & Green Party candidate Howie Hawkins is on the ballot again. In the State Attorney General's race, Incumbent democrat Eric Schneiderman faces Republican John Cahill. In the race for State Comptroller, incumbent Democrat Tom DiNapoli faces Republican Robert Antonacci. In races of local interest, for the 19th Congressional District, Republican Incumbent Chris Gibson faces democrat Sean Eldridge. In the 52nd State Senate district, Incumbent Republican Tom Libous faces Democrat Anndrea Starzak. In the State Assembly in the 121st Assembly District, incumbent Democrat Bill Magee faces a challenge from republican John Salka. In Sidney, Republican Loddie Marsh is running on the Democratic party line, while Jody Proffitt carries the Republican spot on the ballot for a town council seat. In Oneonta, Patricia Kent faces independent David Rowley for a town board seat. InFranklin, Republicans Donald Smith and Lisa Huyck are vying for two seats on the town council against independents Donald Hebbard and Bryan Babcock. There are also 3 propositions on the ballot; 1 proposal seeks to reform the redistricting process to an independent commission. The 2nd measure have lawmakers receive copies of proposed legislation digitally rather than on print out, the 3rd would allow the state to borrow up to $2 billion for high-speed Internet, equipment & high-tech security features for schools.
Bassett Healthcare Network has established a call in line for patients concerned that they may have been exposed to Ebola - that number is (607) 547-5555 or toll free (877) 547-1745. The number is a resource for patients who have traveled internationally or had close contact with someone who recently traveled internationally and was ill. Patients who fit this criteria and are feeling ill or who have questions about possible symptoms are asked to call the Ebola call in line at Bassett to be connected with a clinician trained to help them.
The 2015 General Clinton Canoe Regatta kickoff meeting will be held tonight in Bainbridge. The meeting will begin at 7:00 PM at the Highway 7 Bar and Grill in Bainbridge.
Insurance company AIG has agreed to pay New York state $35 million to settle claims that two former subsidiaries did business without licenses and misled regulators about their operations in the state. The deal was announced by the state Department of Financial Services. It comes after a $60 million settlement in March with MetLife, which purchased the subsidiaries from AIG. Authorities had alleged subsidiaries American Life Insurance Co. and Delaware American Life Insurance Co. sought customers in New York without licenses and without telling regulators. Under the settlement, AIG will drop a legal challenge to the state's probe and the state will not proceed with charges or a lawsuit
It's Election Day, with the big races on the ballot. The race for governor pits incumbent Democrat Andrew Cuomo, against Republican Rob Astorino & Green Party candidate Howie Hawkins is on the ballot again. In the State Attorney General's race, Incumbent democrat Eric Schneiderman faces Republican John Cahill. In the race for State Comptroller, incumbent Democrat Tom DiNapoli faces Republican Robert Antonacci. In races of local interest, for the 19th Congressional District, Republican Incumbent Chris Gibson faces democrat Sean Eldridge. In the 52nd State Senate district, Incumbent Republican Tom Libous faces Democrat Anndrea Starzak. In the State Assembly in the 121st Assembly District, incumbent Democrat Bill Magee faces a challenge from republican John Salka. In Sidney, Republican Loddie Marsh is running on the Democratic party line, while Jody Proffitt carries the Republican spot on the ballot for a town council seat. In Oneonta, Patricia Kent faces independent David Rowley for a town board seat. InFranklin, Republicans Donald Smith and Lisa Huyck are vying for two seats on the town council against independents Donald Hebbard and Bryan Babcock. There are also 3 propositions on the ballot; 1 proposal seeks to reform the redistricting process to an independent commission. The 2nd measure have lawmakers receive copies of proposed legislation digitally rather than on print out, the 3rd would allow the state to borrow up to $2 billion for high-speed Internet, equipment & high-tech security features for schools.
Bassett Healthcare Network has established a call in line for patients concerned that they may have been exposed to Ebola - that number is (607) 547-5555 or toll free (877) 547-1745. The number is a resource for patients who have traveled internationally or had close contact with someone who recently traveled internationally and was ill. Patients who fit this criteria and are feeling ill or who have questions about possible symptoms are asked to call the Ebola call in line at Bassett to be connected with a clinician trained to help them.
The 2015 General Clinton Canoe Regatta kickoff meeting will be held tonight in Bainbridge. The meeting will begin at 7:00 PM at the Highway 7 Bar and Grill in Bainbridge.
Insurance company AIG has agreed to pay New York state $35 million to settle claims that two former subsidiaries did business without licenses and misled regulators about their operations in the state. The deal was announced by the state Department of Financial Services. It comes after a $60 million settlement in March with MetLife, which purchased the subsidiaries from AIG. Authorities had alleged subsidiaries American Life Insurance Co. and Delaware American Life Insurance Co. sought customers in New York without licenses and without telling regulators. Under the settlement, AIG will drop a legal challenge to the state's probe and the state will not proceed with charges or a lawsuit
AIG INSURANCEAnndrea StarzakBASSETT HEALTHCAREBILL MAGEEBRYAN BABCOCKChris GibsonDAVID ROWLEYDONALD HEBBARDDONALD SMITHFRANKLINGENERAL CLINTON CANOE REGATTAGovernor CuomoHOWIE HAWKINSJODY PROFFITTJOHN CAHILLJOHN SALKALISA HUYCKLODDIE MARSHMETLIFENew YorkNYOneontaPATRICIA KENTROB ASTORINOROBERT ANTONACCISEAN ELDRIDGESidneyTOM LIBOUSWCDO
WCDO News — Monday 11-3-14
Tomorrow is Election Day, with many important races on the ballot tomorrow, WCDO News Director Rob ray has details:
(Election 2014)
A felony hearing was held Friday in Bainbridge Town Court for 56 year old John Guzy of Bainbridge, charged with second-degree murder in the death of 26 year old Derek Prindle of Afton. Friday's felony hearing served to send the case before a grand jury in county court. At the close of the hearing, Bainbridge Town Judge Brian Barnhart denied a request by Assistant Chenango County Public Defender Aaron Dean to dismiss the murder charge. Guzy remains held in the Chenango County jail without bail. If convicted of second-degree murder, he faces a maximum of 25 years to life in state prison.
New texting-while-driving laws are now in effect. First-offense convictions of texting or talking while driving will impose a 120-day license or permit suspension for young drivers under 21 with junior licenses. A maximum fine for all violators for a first offense will rise from $150 to $200. For a second offense -- committed within 18 months of the previous offense -- fines will increase from $200 to $250. A third violation or subsequent violations committed within 18 months will increase from $400 to $450.
State Troopers arrested 45-year-old Daniel Caulfield of Oxford for 3rd degree Assault. The arrest resulted from a complaint at the Valley Ridge Center for Intensive Treatment in Norwich, where the investigation determined that during a dispute with a resident, Valley Ridge employee Caulfield punched the resident in the mouth causing an injury. Caulfield was issued a ticket returnable to the Town of Norwich Court on November 6, 2014.
a Town of Norwich woman was arrested twice in 2 days by the Chenango County Sheriff's Office. 28-year-old Jovonne Woolever was charged with Failure to appear on criminal possession of a controlled substance charges, she was taken into custody without incident and arraigned in the City of Norwich Court, she was remanded to the Chenango County Jail on $1,000 cash bail. the following day, Deputies arrested Woolever for 1st degree Promoting Prison Contraband, for allegedly possessing narcotics while being booked into the Chenango County Jail. She will appear in Court on November 6th on the later charges.
Chenango County Sheriff's Deputies arrested 40-year-old Rollins Crane of North Norwich following an investigation into a domestic dispute where Crane was found to have subjected the victim to unwanted physical contact in the presents of young children. Crane was arraigned on charges of 1st degree Harassment & endangering the welfare of a child, he was released until a later court date.
To help control upcoming winter heating bills, NYSEG released some tips. Set thermostats no higher than 70 degrees. When you're away from the house for more than a few hours or in bed for the night, turn thermostats down to 58 degrees. Change or clean furnace filters once a month during the heating season. Use registers to direct warm airflow across the floor, not up toward the ceiling. Open drapes and blinds on sunny days to let the warmth in, but close them at night to insulate against cold air outside. For more go to nyseg.com.
The $138 million reconstruction of the Gilboa Dam has been completed with a ceremony held Friday. The project included the addition of 234 million pounds of concrete, molded and dyed to resemble the original bluestone face of the dam, more than 500 spillway slabs, and upgrades to the abutment walls that support the dam. The project was completed two years ahead of schedule. The new dam includes instruments to constantly measure stress on the dam and will allow engineers to visually inspect the inside and outside on a regular basis.
A Port Crane woman was arrested last night after multiple syringes, one of which was loaded with heroin, were found in her purse during a traffic stop on Rte 11 in Kirkwood. 27 year old Mandy Holmberg was charged with one count of criminal possession of a controlled substance and one count of criminal possession of a hypodermic instrument. Holmberg was released on appearance tickets in town of Fenton Court at a later date.
(Election 2014)
A felony hearing was held Friday in Bainbridge Town Court for 56 year old John Guzy of Bainbridge, charged with second-degree murder in the death of 26 year old Derek Prindle of Afton. Friday's felony hearing served to send the case before a grand jury in county court. At the close of the hearing, Bainbridge Town Judge Brian Barnhart denied a request by Assistant Chenango County Public Defender Aaron Dean to dismiss the murder charge. Guzy remains held in the Chenango County jail without bail. If convicted of second-degree murder, he faces a maximum of 25 years to life in state prison.
New texting-while-driving laws are now in effect. First-offense convictions of texting or talking while driving will impose a 120-day license or permit suspension for young drivers under 21 with junior licenses. A maximum fine for all violators for a first offense will rise from $150 to $200. For a second offense -- committed within 18 months of the previous offense -- fines will increase from $200 to $250. A third violation or subsequent violations committed within 18 months will increase from $400 to $450.
State Troopers arrested 45-year-old Daniel Caulfield of Oxford for 3rd degree Assault. The arrest resulted from a complaint at the Valley Ridge Center for Intensive Treatment in Norwich, where the investigation determined that during a dispute with a resident, Valley Ridge employee Caulfield punched the resident in the mouth causing an injury. Caulfield was issued a ticket returnable to the Town of Norwich Court on November 6, 2014.
a Town of Norwich woman was arrested twice in 2 days by the Chenango County Sheriff's Office. 28-year-old Jovonne Woolever was charged with Failure to appear on criminal possession of a controlled substance charges, she was taken into custody without incident and arraigned in the City of Norwich Court, she was remanded to the Chenango County Jail on $1,000 cash bail. the following day, Deputies arrested Woolever for 1st degree Promoting Prison Contraband, for allegedly possessing narcotics while being booked into the Chenango County Jail. She will appear in Court on November 6th on the later charges.
Chenango County Sheriff's Deputies arrested 40-year-old Rollins Crane of North Norwich following an investigation into a domestic dispute where Crane was found to have subjected the victim to unwanted physical contact in the presents of young children. Crane was arraigned on charges of 1st degree Harassment & endangering the welfare of a child, he was released until a later court date.
To help control upcoming winter heating bills, NYSEG released some tips. Set thermostats no higher than 70 degrees. When you're away from the house for more than a few hours or in bed for the night, turn thermostats down to 58 degrees. Change or clean furnace filters once a month during the heating season. Use registers to direct warm airflow across the floor, not up toward the ceiling. Open drapes and blinds on sunny days to let the warmth in, but close them at night to insulate against cold air outside. For more go to nyseg.com.
The $138 million reconstruction of the Gilboa Dam has been completed with a ceremony held Friday. The project included the addition of 234 million pounds of concrete, molded and dyed to resemble the original bluestone face of the dam, more than 500 spillway slabs, and upgrades to the abutment walls that support the dam. The project was completed two years ahead of schedule. The new dam includes instruments to constantly measure stress on the dam and will allow engineers to visually inspect the inside and outside on a regular basis.
A Port Crane woman was arrested last night after multiple syringes, one of which was loaded with heroin, were found in her purse during a traffic stop on Rte 11 in Kirkwood. 27 year old Mandy Holmberg was charged with one count of criminal possession of a controlled substance and one count of criminal possession of a hypodermic instrument. Holmberg was released on appearance tickets in town of Fenton Court at a later date.
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