WCDO Radio News

P.M. NEWS MONDAY 2-2-26

The Chenango County Sheriff’s Office has been made aware of a scam currently circulating, as Several county residents have reported receiving phone calls claiming they have an active warrant for their arrest and are instructed to pay a sum of money to have the matter “cleared up.” This is a scam, as the Chenango County Sheriff’s Office will never contact individuals by phone to demand payment.

The Binghamton Rumble Ponies announced an extension of 5 more years to the naming rights agreement with Mirabito. The new agreement also continues in with Visions Federal Credit Union, who is the title sponsor of the Starting Gate Box Office at Mirabito Stadium, Rumble Ponies GM Richard Tylicki explains:

(Richard Tylicki 2-2-26)

The new Agreement between Mirabito Energy Products and Visions Federal Credit Union runs through the duration of the Major League Baseball's Professional Development agreement with the New York Mets through 2030. Also today, tickets went on sale for Rumble Ponies games at Mirabito Stadium, more information is available at bingrp.com.

Local Film-makers Joe Stillman & Jeri Wachter will be showing 5 of their Documentaries on uniquely American Stories on Friday & Saturday at Foothills in Oneonta, Joe Stillman told WCDO News about the films:

(Joe Stillman 2-2-26)

The films include the Jimmy Massey Story, about a former Marine speaking out on abuses during the Iraq War, another about former US Attorney General Ramsey Clark, another about poverty in Agriculture, another about COVID 19's effect on Americans & the 5th about 500 years of history being rediscovered in South Texas. Jeri Wachter said that both of them will be there both Friday & Saturday at Foothills, Veterans can attend free and how tickets can be purchased:

(Jeri Wachter 2-2-26)

More information is available at important films media.com. the films will be run from 2:00 PM through 10:00 PM both days.

Governor Kathy Hochul today announced Empire AI campus partnerships between SUNY’s university centers, university colleges, technology colleges, and community colleges to advance artificial intelligence research and education for the public good. The State University of New York at Albany is partnering with SUNY Oneonta, SUNY Cobleskill Ag & Tech, and Hudson Valley Community College on 1 project, and The State University of New York at Binghamton is partnering with SUNY Cortland, SUNY Delhi, SUNY New Paltz, SUNY Oneonta, Broome Community College, and Tompkins Cortland Community College om\n another project.

A.M. NEWS MONDAY 2-2-26

Delaware County Sheriff’s Deputies arrested 30-year-old Daniel Roe of Davenport, who is accused of subjecting a juvenile to sexual contact in May 2024. Roe was also alleged to have subjected another juvenile to inappropriate sexual conversations during the same time frame. Investigators arrested Roe on 2 counts of Endangering the Welfare of a Child, 1 count of Forcible Touching, 1 count of Sexual Abuse, Roe was arraigned & Orders of Protection were issued for the victims. Roe was later released on his own recognizance and was directed to appear at the Town of Davenport Court at a later date to answer the charges.

City of Oneonta announced that crews will be installing new Rapid Flashing Beacons at crosswalks at the new roundabout project. Motorists should expect temporary lane closures at various times over the next two weeks, at Main Street East, Lettis Highway South, Main Street West through the roundabout and at Pine Street.

P.M. NEWS TUESDAY 12-19-23

The United Way of Mid Rural New York has increased their fundraising totals by 12% in the last week alone, as they head for the end of their annual fundraising campaign, according to Executive Director Elizabeth Monaco:

(Elizabeth Monaco 12-19-23)

More information about the annual campaign is available at their Norwich Office at 607-334-8815, or by going to uwmrny.org.

ACHIEVE in Norwich gave a tour of their new facility at East Main Street in Norwich yesterday, the renovated facility will offer a 200 capacity multi-purpose meeting space, a cafe & kitchen for job skills training, a nursing station, Hoyer Lift Systems and a community center. Achieve is a non-profit organization that provIdes support & services to more than 2200 individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities in Broome, Chenango & Tioga Counties, more information is available at achieveny.org.

The 213th State Police Academy Graduation, will be held on Thursday, at 11:00 AM at the Empire State Plaza Convention Center, Albany. 232 new Troopers will graduate from the Basic School of the New York State Police Academy, they will then be assigned to the Troop following graduation.

Governor Kathy Hochul today announced that the application for the Excelsior Scholarship for new applicants for the Spring 2024 term is now open. Students from households with federal adjusted gross incomes up to $125,000 are eligible, Students must Plan to attend a SUNY or CUNY two- or four-year college; Complete 30 credits per year towards their program of study and must be on track to graduate with an associate degree in two years or a bachelor's degree in four years. more information is available at webapps.hesc.ny.gov, Applications will be accepted through February 2, 2024.

A.M. NEWS TUESDAY 12-19-23

Otsego County Officials announced that several roads are closed due to flooding conditions, including County Highway 48 between Chamberlain Hill and Downey Road Spur in Otego, County Highway 4 between Mill Street and Hilton Street in the Town of Butternuts, Miller Road in Pittsfield, Bemis Road from State Highway 51 to Pegg Road in Morris. In Delaware County, State Route 30 in Roxbury has flooding issues, officals in all around counties advise motorists to turn around if they find flooded roads & report them to authorites as soon as possible. Motorists can check 511ny.org for road closures.

Delaware County Sheriff's Office arrested 31 year old Cachet Fernandez of Sidney on a sealed indictment arrest warrant issued out of the Delaware County Court. On Friday Morning, Broome County Sheriff’s Deputies, located and identified Fernandez, he was turned over to the custody of Delaware County Sheriff’s Deputies. The Delaware County Court issued a sealed indictment arrest warrant, stemming from Fernandez allegedly not reporting his new residence as a registered Sex Offender to the proper authorities upon moving. Fernandez was remanded to the Delaware County Jail to await arraignment in Delaware County Court at a later date.

The Governor's Office & the Public Employees Federation and Civil Service Employees Association announced an agreement to award nearly $3 million in backpay to more than 2,100 New York State employees who worked overtime during the COVID-19 pandemic. Starting this week, more than 1,700 PEF members and more than 400 members of CSEA will receive payments for work completed beyond traditional work hours at the height of the pandemic.

P.M. NEWS THURSDAY 3-24-22

The State Department of Labor reported that the number of private sector jobs in the Sate increased over the month by 39,800, or 0.5%, to 7,888,300 in February. The State's unemployment rate decreased from 5.3% to 4.9% in February.

This Week is National Poison Prevention Week, the State Division of Consumer Protection is reminding New Yorkers of prevention measures to reduce the risk of poisoning. According to the Consumer Product Safety Commission's Annual Report on Pediatric Poisoning Fatalities and Injuries pediatric poisonings involving children under 5 years of age resulted in 43 fatalities in 2020, a 26 percent increase from 2019. Consumers can file a complaint with the Division of Consumer Protection at dos.ny.gov, more information about household poisons is available by calling 800-697-1220.

227 new Troopers were honored for their perseverance and dedication in completing the 210th session of the Basic School of the New York State Police Academy during graduation exercises at the Empire State Plaza in Albany, New York. Over 50 of the new troopers will be assigned to Troop C in Sidney.

The city of Oneonta announced plans to close West Street between Chestnut and Center streets for 5 months, for a construction project, starting Monday. The project calls for the replacement of water mains, sewer mains, manholes, catch basins and fire hydrants as well as related infrastructure. Detours will be posted, Construction work will be done between 7 am. and 3:30 pm. on week days and is expected to be completed in August prior to the return of students to SUNY Oneonta & Hartwick College.

For National Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month, Oneonta's Muller Plaza will be the site of the "Main Street Goes Blue Event" tomorrow, spokesperson Rebecca Hess explains:

(Rebecca Hess 3-25-22)

The Program runs tomorrow from 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM in Oneonta, more information about the program is available at 1-888-345-0225.

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A.M. NEWS THURSDAY 3-23-22

Otsego County Sheriff's Office arrested 22 year old Leroy Williams of Oneonta following a Domestic Dispute in the Town of Oneonta on March 1st. Williams was charged with Endangering the Welfare of a Child & Harassment, he faces court action shortly.

State Trooper T.J. Conklin responded to a welfare check of an elderly man at the Whitney Point Rest Area off I-81. Trooper Conklin learned the man’s family accidentally left him behind at the rest stop after he stepped out to stretch his legs. State police say the man had no phone, Trooper Conklin located a family member out of state who was able to connect with the family members in the car. The man’s family realized he wasn’t sleeping in the back seat where he left his jacket over some baggage, They had already traveled 3 hours away, so Trooper Conklin drove the man to Roscoe where they all had dinner together at a local diner.

P.M. NEWS MONDAY 11-23-20

The Health Department continues to aggressively test New Yorkers for the COVID 19 virus, with over 191,000 tested on Sunday, with 5906 positive tests, or 3% of those tested.  2724 people are hospitalized; increases of 162 from Saturday, there were 33 more deaths from the virus Sunday, bringing the state death toll to 26,390.

The SUNY Oneonta COVID Response Team gathered feedback and answered questions about the college’s Draft Re-opening Plan for spring 2021 at 2 virtual town halls last week.   SUNY Oneonta Acting President Dennis Craig told WCDO News that the plan is largely in place but will be amended as needed:

(Dennis Craig 11-23-20)

Over 750 staff, faculty, students and their parents participated. The recordings of both town halls are available at suny.oneonta.edu/covid-19 regarding the spring 2021 reopening plan.

State Comptroller Tom DiNapoli announced that New York State leads the nation in what it pays to the federal government compared to what it gets back from Washington. New York taxpayers paid $23.7 billion more in federal taxes than the state received in federal spending in federal fiscal year 2019, for every tax dollar paid to Washington; the state received $0.91, well below the national average of $1.24. New Mexico gets the most value at $2.83 per tax dollar paid, followed by Mississippi ($2.50), West Virginia ($2.43), Alabama ($2.17) and Kentucky ($2.05).

The Sidney Central School District has been notified that 2 members of the District community have tested positive for COVID-19. The first individual has not been on campus since Thursday, November 12th and the second individual since last Friday, November 20th.  The Department of Health Services has conducted and completed the contact tracing. Any and all people impacted have been notified. The potential exposure has been minimized in this case because of the emphasis placed on wearing face coverings and social distancing; there will be no change to the current Sidney School Schedule.

A.M. NEWS MONDAY 11-23-20

Governor Cuomo held a COVID 19 briefing in New York City Sunday; he stated that the current concern will be how high the infection rates will get after Thanksgiving & the Christmas holidays:

(Cuomo 11-23-20)

The state performed over 196,608 tests Saturday, with 5391 positive tests, 2562 are now hospitalized, 500 are in an ICU Bed, 234 are on ventilators & there were 30 deaths from COVID Saturday.

Otsego County Department of Health reported 11 new cases of COVID on Saturday & 17 cases Sunday.   Otsego County now has had 1185 total confirmed cases, 93 active cases, 4 hospitalized, 8 deaths, 764 cases are linked to SUNY Oneonta & 71 confirmed cases in Hartwick College students.

Delaware County Public Health announced Saturday that they had 4 new cases of COVID 19 & 7 new cases Sunday, they have 43 active cases, 5 were hospitalized, and 201 were quarantined.  They are up to 308 total cases since March with 9 deaths and 256 recoveries.

Tourism-related dollars spent in Delaware County in 2019 have grown to $121 million, according to a report issued by the Empire State Development Division for Tourism Development, Delaware County Chamber of Commerce President Ray Pucci comments:

(Ray Pucci 11-23-20)

Traveler spending increased 2.5% across of all New York. The strongest growth occurred in the Catskills with a 7.3% increase in spending last year.  Tourism accounted for over 1,145 jobs in Delaware County resulting in $41.7 million in labor income recirculating through the local economy.  Tourism generated more than $7.7 million in local taxes and over $6.6 million in state taxes.

P.M. NEWS WEDNESDAY 5-17-17

"The Wall The Heals" will be set up in Neahwa Park in Oneonta over the Memorial Day Weekend, local organizer for the event; Gene Schmidt said that there is still a need for a few more volunteers, as preparations are already underway:

(Gene Schmidt 5-17-17)

Schmidt said that the Wall would be brought through area towns on May 25th, along State Route 7 from Harpursville to Oneonta; the wall will be in Neahwa Park through the late afternoon hours of Memorial Day.

The City of Oneonta has hired George Korthauer as the new City Manager. Korthauer served as a city manager in Michigan, he beat out about 90 applicants for the Oneonta City Manager's position.

Governor Cuomo today ordered a comprehensive review of compliance under the 2015 "Enough Is Enough" law at all higher-education institutions across the state. The statewide inspection will ensure that all colleges and universities are fulfilling their obligations under the law to protect students from sexual assault, dating violence, domestic violence and stalking, and are taking every measure to properly investigate allegations of sexual assault on campus.   The Governor has directed the review be completed for all schools by the beginning of the fall semester.

Empire State Development failed to meet more than half of the reporting requirements for tax credit and job creation programs, according to an audit released by State Comptroller Tom DiNapoli. Auditors found 27 of 57 of general outcome reports, or 47 percent, were not finished, 17 programs requiring independently prepared evaluations were not evaluated; and 93 of 152 program-specific reports, or 61 percent, were not completed. The full report is available at osc.state.ny.us/audits.

State Senate Democrats want to add an Equal Rights amendment to the state constitution.   The proposal would add language prohibiting discrimination based on gender, disability, sexual orientation or identity, the 1938 bill only prohibited discrimination based on race, color, creed or religion. Voters would decide whether to approve the amendment if lawmakers agree to put it on the November ballot.

All area school districts had successful budget votes yesterday, many by a wide margin. Locally, the Franklin School district required a Super Majority Voter Approval; their tax levy increase was slightly above the state cap.

4 people were arrested on drug charges following the execution of a ‘no knock’ warrant on North Broad Street in Norwich Tuesday. Arrested were 19-year-old Chase Webb of Norwich, 37-year-old Steven Peterson of New York City, 30-year-old Sebastian Catanzaro of Norwich and 28-year-old Christina Banks of Norwich. Webb is accused of selling heroin; Peterson is accused of possessing cocaine and crack with the intent to sell. Catanzaro and Banks are accused of maintaining a place for drug sales. All 4 were arraigned; Webb was remanded to the Chenango County Correctional Facility pending future court action.

The Delaware County Chamber of Commerce is hosting its Annual Awards Gala at the Castle on the Delaware, in Walton today from 5:30 to 8:30 PM. The Village of Sidney is recieving recognition as the Business Advocate of the Year, according to Delaware County Chamber President Ray Pucci:

(Ray Pucci 5-17-17)

Other award recipients are: Businesses of the Year - Friesland-Campina DOMO, Saputo Dairy Foods; the new Business of the Year is Union Grove Distillery; Tourism Award goes to Wayside Cidery and Tap Room.

The Delaware National Bank of Delhi opened their new Sidney Loan office location on May 8th, at 276 State Highway 7, this morning they celebrated with a Grand Opening & ribbon Cutting this morning, spokesperson Dee Hillis explains:

(Dee Hillis 5-17-17)

The Delaware National Bank of Delhi is the 26th oldest bank in the Country, and the 3rd oldest bank in the State of New York.

State health officials have published a guide to help New Yorkers to avoid Lyme disease this summer. The state department of health has published a complete guideline on their website, complete with what to do if you are bit by a tick, which are the most common ticks to spread Lyme disease, include pictures of those ticks. The Guideline is available at health.ny.gov
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State University of New York Empire State College will hold public information session about its associate and bachelor's degree programs at 44 HAWLEY STREET, BINGHAMTON today. The session will begin at 4:30 PM; more information is available at 721-8651.

Delaware County Sheriff's Office Investigators arrested 45-year-old Gabriel Bonacci of Sidney on new felony drug charges, following an investigation after a March 24th arrest by Parole Officers on a parole violation warrant. This morning Sheriff’s Investigators charged Bonacci with 2 counts of Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance & 2 counts of Attempted Criminal Sale of a Controlled Substance, following the execution of a search warrant at Bonacci’s Sidney property Monday, Investigators seized narcotics, including morphine tablets. Bonacci was arraigned in the Town of Sidney Court & was sent back to the Delaware County Jail on $250,000 cash bail.

State Police are looking for 78-year-old Franklin Carney of Norwich, who was reported missing Thursday. Police said that Carney suffers from dementia, and may be in need of medical attention, he was last see at 1:00 PM Thursday on Aldrich Road in Norwich. Carney is described as a white male, 6 feet 1 inch tall, 172 pounds, with gray hair and gray eyes, he drives a black 2006 Ford Ranger with the New York license plates CHB-2325, he was wearing a black Carhart jacket, blue jeans, white shoes and a baseball cap, he was with his Australian cattle dog. Anybody with information should call State police at 334- 3296 or 911.

State Troopers arrested 48-year-old John St. John of Mt. Upton for DWI with a B.A.C. result of .15% and other traffic violations. The arrest was made following a traffic stop for speeding at 78mph, when the speed limit is 55mph, while on State Route 7 in the Town of Bainbridge. An investigation determined that St John was driving while intoxicated. He was issued tickets returnable to the Bainbridge Town Court on April 17, 2017.

The 2017 trout and salmon fishing season begin tomorrow, April 1. Anglers can visit DEC’s website to view this spring’s planned trout stockings in 314 lakes and ponds and 2,850 miles of streams across New York State. Anyone 16 years of age and older that wants to fish in New York must have a State fishing license. Anglers can purchase and print a license for immediate use on their home computer at www.dec.ny.gov/permits. Anglers can also purchase a license by phone by calling 1-866-933-2257, or from the numerous license-issuing agents across the state.

Governor Cuomo announced a Request for Proposals for the availability of up to $4.7 million in annual funding for statewide problem gambling outreach, education and treatment services. The RFP includes the development and oversight of seven Problem Gambling Resource Centers across the state. The initiative will be funded in part through a $500 annual license fee charged to casinos operating in New York State, for each gambling table and slot machine at their facilities. Responses are due June 8th.

Governor Cuomo endorsed the "Empire State Equity Act," federal legislation that would deliver property tax relief to New Yorkers by increasing federal funding for New York's Medicaid program. New York is a "donor state" that contributes as much as $30 billion more to the federal budget in taxes than it receives back in services. This bill will help level the playing field and provide New York with an additional $2.3 billion in Medicaid funds, which the state will use to eliminate the local share of Medicaid for any county that agrees to lower local property taxes by an equal amount, thereby passing 100 percent of their savings to their taxpayers.

CDO Workforce & SUNY Delhi will team up for a session today, regarding application & available courses of study at the college. The session will begin at 1:00 PM at the SIdney Civic Center in the CDOWorkforce offices, reservations are requested at 561-7550, but walk-ins are welcome.

The Afton & Bainbridge Guilford Yes Leaders are teaming up for an Opioid Awareness Program tonight in the Afton School District. State Senator Fred Akshar comments:

(Fred Akshar 3-16-17)

Hundreds are expected to attend the event tonight, which will start with a free pizza dinner at 5:30 followed by the program at 6:00 PM; more information about the program is available at yes safe choices.org.

The New York State Department of Health today announced several enhancements to the state’s Medical Marijuana Program that will improve patient access. The measures include authorizing physician assistants to certify patients and adding chronic pain as a qualifying condition. More information about New York’s Medical Marijuana Program is available at health.ny.gov/regulations/medical_marijuana.

The State Senate & State Assembly passed their budget resolutions this week, paving the way for the conference committees to begin negotiating the differences in the 2 plans next week. Both budget plans call for increases tuition assistance for college students and increasing aid to public school districts and tackling the state's aging water infrastructure issues. Other issues include stopping the practice of prosecuting 16 & 17 year olds as adults in criminal cases, and allowing for Uber & Lyft to begin serving upstate counties.

The American Red Cross is urging all eligible donors throughout the state to give blood following the recent winter storm, which forced 56 regional blood drives to cancel and blood donations centers to shut down, causing about 1,480 donations to go uncollected. Officials said that there is a critical need for type O negative donors. Upcoming Blood drives will be held in Oneonta on Monday from 12:00 Noon to 5:00 PM at SUNY Oneonta, on March 27th from 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM at the Southside Oneonta Holiday Inn, & March 28th from 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM at the Oneonta Elks Club, on Chestnut Street. Blood donations will be collected in Sidney on March 28th from 2:00 to 6:00 PM at the Sidney Elks Lodge, & in Walton on March 28th at the Pines Brook Church, from 2:00 to 7:00 PM. More information is available at redcrossblood.org.

Governor Cuomo reminds New Yorkers who need help paying their heating bills to apply to the Home Energy Assistance Program by tomorrow, March 17. Nearly 1.3 million households have already received help heating their homes this winter through the program. Households eligible for HEAP can receive one regular benefit per year, of up to $626, depending on income, household size and heating source. People may apply for online at myBenefits.ny.gov.

Manufacturing in New York State expanded for the 5th straight month in March, but at a slower pace that February, when activity reached the highest level in 2 years. The Federal Reserve Bank in New York reported that the empire state manufacturing index in march stood at 16.4, down from 18.7 last month, the level for new orders was the highest in several years, the level for unfilled orders jumped to the highest levels in about a decade. The increases follow 2 years of mostly flat output.

Governor Cuomo announced that flags on state government buildings would be flown at half-staff on Sunday, September 11. The Flags will be flown in remembrance of the nearly 3,000 people who lost their lives in the 2001 terrorist attacks.

State Police at Norwich arrested 20-year-old Jacob Burrell, 18-year-old Melissa Land, & 18-year-old Kayla VanPelt, 18, all of New Berlin, for 2nd degree burglary. Troopers were advised of a burglary at a home on Hemlock Hill Drive in the Town of Columbus in July. Burrell is accused of damaging a window to gain entry; all 3 allegedly entered & stole liquor. Burrell, Land and VanPelt were arraigned in the Town of Norwich court and were released; they face court action in the Town of Columbus shortly.

State Police arrested 50-year-old Michael Silver of Franklin for criminal mischief, after Troopers responded to a dispute at a home on State Route 357 in the Town of Franklin. Silver is accused of smashing the victim's front windshield of her vehicle with a baseball bat, as she was driving away, following a dispute. Silver was arraigned in the Town of Franklin court and was remanded to the Delaware County jail on $1,500 cash bail or $3,000 property bond.

Cal Harris will appear In Oneonta Town Court on October13th, to answer to charges for allegedly stalking a State Police Investigator who testified in Harris's most recent Murder trial in Schoharie County Court earlier this year. Harris was sentenced in Owego earlier this week in a separate case, for harassing an unidentified student at a SUNY Broome Satellite class in Tioga County in 2015. Harris was freed following his 4th trial earlier this year, after being accused & convicted twice of killing his estranged Wife Michelle in 2001, 2 convictions were overturned on appeal, the 3rd murder trial ended with a hung jury, his last trial ended with his being released of murder charges.

The dedication of Miller Park in Oneonta will take place on Tuesday at 11:00 AM. The park is located at the intersection of the Lettis Highway & Main Street in Oneonta, to honor the former Mayor of Oneonta & Hartwick college president Dick Miller, who took his own life in October of 2014.

The Family of former State Assembly Minority Leader Clarence "Rapp" Rappleyea has announced calling hours & funeral services. Rappleyea died on September 4th at the age of 82, Friends are invited to call at the NorthEast Classic car Museum from 4:00 p.m. -8:00 PM today. A Celebration of Life for Rapp will be held at the Car Museum at 11:00 AM Saturday. Private burial services will immediately follow at Mt. Hope Cemetery in Norwich. Another Celebration of Rapp's life will be held at 1:00 pm on Monday at the Terrace Gallery, at the New York State Museum in the Empire State Plaza in Albany. The family is requesting donations to The Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson's Research, the Cure Alzheimer's Fund, or the Roger Follett Foundation, Inc., 35 West Main Street, Norwich, 13815.

The American Red Cross encourages eligible donors to give blood & Donors of all blood types are needed. A blood drive is being held today in Delhi from 11:00 AM to 5:00 PM at the State University Farrell Student & Community Center at 2 Main Street, another blood drive is being held in Oxford from Saturday from 7:30 AM to 12:30 PM, at the American Legion on South Washington Street. To make an appointment to give blood, download the Red Cross Blood Donor App, visit redcrossblood.org or call 1-800-RED CROSS.

Governor Cuomo today announced that the Unemployment Insurance reforms in 2013 have resulted in additional savings for New York State employers in terms of their State Unemployment Insurance contributions. Employers have already saved an estimated $200 million through the early repayment of federal debt with each saving, on average, an estimated total of $1,200 or $84 per employee. As a result, the Unemployment Insurance contribution rate schedules have been adjusted downward, reducing costs and saving employers up to an additional $42.80 per employee.

State Police arrested 30-year-old Patrick Hill of Whitney Point on 3 counts of sexual abuse and 1 count of endangering the welfare of a child. Hill is accused of having sexual contact with a victim less than 14 years old several times in the Town of Nanticoke; Hill was issued tickets returnable to the Town of Nanticoke court on February 25th.

35-year-old Anthony Thompson of Binghamton faces an animal cruelty charge for allegedly neglecting 7 dogs on a property in Chenango County. 7 pit bulls were saved from the property in North Norwich; all of the dogs are now in the state's custody & are being treated at an animal clinic in Norwich. Thompson is currently in custody & faces court action shortly.

The Federal Olmstead act may be proving to be counter productive to the developmentally disabled, that have been moved from Broome Developmental into group homes. Area Assemblyman Cliff Crouch Comments:

(Crouch 2-9-16)

Crouch said that he expects to be involved in a Task Force that will hold hearings around the state, where similar situations have occurred, and concerns have been registered to lawmakers.

State Police arrested 60-year-old Sandra Simmons of Port Crane for the felony of aggravated DWI with a B.A.C. result of .23% plus other traffic violations. The arrest occurred after a Broome county 911 report of an erratic driver in Johnson City. Simmons was arraigned & was remanded to the Broome County jail with no bail set at this time. Her next court date in the Village of Johnson City is pending.

Annual local sales tax collections declined in 30 of the 57 counties outside of New York City last year, according to a report issued today by State Comptroller Tom DiNapoli. Total collections across the state grew by 3.6% in 2015, but the increase was nearly exclusively driven by New York City. Elsewhere, growth in local sales tax collections was a mere 0.7%. 10 counties experienced a decline of more than 3%, including Delaware County.

State University of New York Empire State College will hold public information sessions about its associate and bachelor’s degree programs at the State Office Building, Room 505, at 44 Hawley Street, Binghamton Today at 4:30 PM. More information is available at 721-8651.

Former New York Governor George Pataki told supporters on Tuesday that he is dropping his bid for the Republican presidential nomination. The former governor never made it onto a main debate stage and has had trouble raising funds. Pataki flirted with presidential runs in 2008 and 2012 but did not enter the race..

In memory of Trooper Christopher Skinner, The State Police are inviting the public to join them by giving blood at the 2nd annual Trooper Skinner Memorial American Red Cross blood drive today. Trooper Skinner was killed in the line of duty, while conducting a routine traffic stop on I-81 in the town of Chenango. The public can Donate Blood in Memory of Trooper Skinner from 12:00 Noon to 5:00 PM at the State Police Barracks at 84 Crescent Drive in Kirkwood today.

Governor Cuomo announced that the minimum wage increase for State Workers would take effect beginning tomorrow. The increase will be implemented on the same phased-in schedule currently underway for fast food workers, all State workers will receive an hourly wage of at least $9.75 per hour for employees outside of New York City.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Governor Cuomo announced that New York State would begin accepting applications for the new 'Get On Your Feet' Loan Forgiveness Program on December 31st. the program offers up to 24 months of federal student loan debt relief to recent college graduates living in the State. To qualify, applicants must have earned an undergraduate degree from a college or university located in New York State in or after December 2014, have an adjusted gross income of less than $50,000, and be enrolled in the federal Income Based Repayment plan or Pay as You Earn plan. more than 2,500 graduates from the class of 2015 have registered to apply for the program through the New York State Higher Education Services Corporation.

Governor Cuomo announced that Taste New York has achieved the goal of tripling gross sales of participating vendors in 2015, to over 4.5 Million dollars. Additionally, the New York State Department of Agriculture and Markets partnered with Empire State Development to provide New Yorkers and visitors worldwide instant access to a list of all the Taste NY agri-tourism destinations through the I LOVE NY mobile app, bringing greater exposure to New York’s food and beverage businesses across the state. The Department also worked with Food Export USA and Empire State Development this year to ensure Taste NY products were included in the Governor Cuomo's trade missions to Cuba and Puerto Rico.

Chenango County Habitat for Humanity has been settling into their new office space located in the Klee House in Guilford. Officials remind residents that they can donate bottles and cans in the Habitat Bottle Shed at the Rte 12 Redemption Center in Norwich. Officials are also looking for more volunteers, interested parties can call 334-7492; more information is available at habitat.chenango.org.

Governor Cuomo today announced $10 million in Public Safety Answering Points operations grants have been awarded to municipalities across New York State. The funding through State Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services will support 57 counties and the City of New York in improving 9-1-1 response and emergency dispatching. Locally, Broome County receives $209,000, Chenango County gets over $170,000, Delaware county received over $154,000 and Otsego County will get over $157,000.

Governor Cuomo signed an executive order to expedite the freedom of information law appeals process. The order fast-tracks FOIL appeals by requiring that all state agencies file notice of an appeal, settle the record on appeal, and file a brief within 60 days, absent extraordinary circumstances outside agency control. The Governor will introduce legislation in the upcoming session that encompasses the order, while also correcting the serious flaws of 2 Assembly Bills.

State Police arrested 48-year-old George Velten of Guilford for aggravated unlicensed operation of a motor vehicle, after Velten was stopped during a road check on County Route 35 in the Town of Guilford. Velten’s license showed that he had 12 suspensions on 10 different dates, he was arraigned at the Town of Guilford court and remanded to the Chenango County jail on $1,000 cash bail or $2,500 property bond.

90% of New Yorkers say they are somewhat concerned, 60 % say they are very concerned, that another terrorist attack will happen in New York in the near future, according to a new Sienna College poll released today. 63% said they have not changed their lifestyle out of fear of a terrorist attack. By a 52-39 percent margin, voters oppose allowing Syrian refugees to come to the United States at this time. 90% also believe that corruption in Albany is still a serious problem, and by a 3-to-1 margin, voters say new laws are needed to prevent further corruption in state government. 2/3rds also agree with Attorney General Eric Schneiderman that daily fantasy sports games are gambling and illegal in New York.

Delaware County Sheriff Deputies responded to a one-car motor vehicle accident on State Highway 28 in the Town of Meredith. Deputies arrested 28-year-old Benjamin Nobel of Meridale for driving while ability impaired by drugs and unlawful possession of marijuana, plus several traffic summons related to the accident. Nobel was arranged in the Town of Delhi Court and remanded to the Delaware County Jail on $1,000 cash bail. Noble is to re-appear in the Town of Meredith Court at a later date.

State Police arrested 25-year-old Dustin Phillips of Binghamton for criminal possession of a weapon, after troopers responded to assist an Environmental Conservation Officer who was out with three men shooting on state lands in the Town of Kirkwood. An investigation determined that Phillips and two other men where shooting shotguns at targets, Phillips is on parole and also is a convicted felon who cannot legally possess firearms; he faces court action on Tuesday.

Governor Cuomo today announced he would host the 2016 State of the State and Executive Budget Address on Wednesday, January 13 at 12:30 p.m. at the Empire State Plaza Convention Center in Albany. New Yorkers wishing to attend should visit the Governor's homepage to register, which is governor.ny.gov.

Former State Senate Majority Leader Dean Skelos and his son Adam were found guilty Friday of 8 counts of bribery, extortion and conspiracy. Dean Skelos was found guilty of using his power as Senate Majority Leader to get no show jobs to his son Adam. The conviction means that Skelos has been removed from the Senate seat that he held onto after resigning as Senate Leader in May.

U.S. Senator Charles Schumer and Governor Cuomo announced a push to prevent known or suspected terrorists from purchasing guns in New York State. Schumer commented at a Press Conference this weekend:

(Schumer 12-14-15)

Schumer said that the request became necessary after legislation in the US Senate did not pass, that would have closed the "Terror Loophole".

The National Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum is preparing for one of the season’s signature events: Hall of Fame Classic Weekend, set to return over Memorial Day Weekend. The 2016 Classic will be held on Saturday, May 28 at Doubleday Field. New in 2016, the Classic moves to 1:00 PM, with the popular Home Run Derby starting at noon. Tickets for the 2016 Hall of Fame Classic will go on sale on Monday, March 7th.

Governor Cuomo signed legislation to expedite access to medicinal marijuana for New Yorkers suffering from serious health conditions. Cuomo also announced that he has ordered state health officials to review whether a new, broader medical marijuana program due to begin in January has enough production and dispensing sites to adequately serve the state. 20 sites are scheduled to open early next year. The governor said that the drug would be dispensed to eligible patients as soon as practicable, he also said that the state will abide by standards from the U.S. Justice Department to ensure that New York’s program does not trigger enforcement actions by the federal government.

HARTWICK COLLEGE HAS SUSPENDED ITS HEAD FOOTBALL COACH AND 5 UNIDENTIFIED PLAYERS AFTER AN INCIDENT IN A GAME AGAINST ST. JOHN FISHER. WCDO SPORTS DIRECTOR NATE LULL HAS MORE….

(Nate Lull 11-12-15)

(text: HARTWICK HEAD FOOTBALL COACH MARK CARR AND 5 OF HIS PLAYERS ARE BEING PUNISHED AFTER AN INCIDENT IN THE FINAL MOMENTS OF A 41-34 LOSS LAST WEEKEND. HARTWICK OFFICIALS DEEMED THAT ACTIONS BY THE TEAM IN THE CLOSING MOMENTS OF THE GAME WERE CONSIDERED TO BE UNSPORTSMANLIKE. ST. JOHN FISHER COLLEGE WAS LEADING THE GAME AND WAS ATTEMPTING TO RUN OUT THE CLOCK BY TAKING A KNEE BUT ON TWO DIFFERENT OCCASIONS HARTWICK PLAYERS MADE HITS ON PLAYERS THAT WERE CONSIDERED UNNECESSARY. THE 2ND HIT ENDED WITH BOTH BENCHES CLEARING ONTO THE FIELD. THE TEAMS WERE QUICKLY SEPARATED. THE EMPIRE 8 LEAGUE SAID THEY SUPPORT THE ACTIONS TAKEN BY HARTWICK ADMINISTRATION. A LARGE GROUP OF HARTWICK ATHLETICS SUPPORTERS PROTESTED THE SCHOOL’S DECISION AND IS HOPING THAT THEIR EFFORTS WILL CHANGE THE MIND OF HARTWICK ADMINISTRATION GOING FORWARD. FOR NOW- THE SUSPENSION WILL HOLD FOR THE HAWKS FINAL GAME OF THE YEAR THIS WEEKEND AGAINST UTICA COLLEGE. FOR WCDO SPORTS I’M NATE LULL)

State Police received a report from a resident in Roxbury, that an X-Acto knife type razor blade was found inside a sealed bag of Sour Skittles which had been obtained while Trick or Treating. The candy was not opened until opened on November 9th; it has been traced back to the purchase point of the CVS Pharmacy in Margaretville. The investigation has not been able to identify the source of the razor blade and parents all over the region are recommended to thoroughly check all candy prior to consumption.

State Police have recently received several reports of telephone callers claiming to be from the IRS that aggressively demand the resident pay money to clear up an outstanding tax debt, or face criminal charges. The public is being advised that the IRS does not make phone calls in this manner, and anyone receiving a telephone call of this nature should check with the local IRS office.

First Night and LEAF will be collaborating with the Oneonta Boys and Girls Club on Saturday, December 12th on their annual FREE Christmas Party with live music, games and activities, snacks and a visit from not only Santa. The Elks Club will be welcoming families to participate in a Hoop Shoot from 10 am until noon and the Christmas Party will run from noon until 2 pm. It will also be a chance to purchase discounted buttons for First Night Oneonta's Spectacular New Year's Eve Celebration.

New York outlawed daily fantasy sports websites and FanDuel CEO Nigel Eccles said that they're hoping to work around the decision by New York's Attorney General Eric Schneiderman, that declared daily fantasy sports sites such as FanDuel and DraftKings are illegal gambling operations. Eccles said that their attorney claims that there is a 5-day period allotted in the cease-and-desist letter in which they'll be working to figure out their options. About 10% of the 2 companies business has been from New York.

The New York State Office of General Services announced a surplus vehicle, highway equipment, and miscellaneous property auction will be held today in Binghamton, however the previously scheduled auction in Unadilla was cancelled and will not be rescheduled. Items and terms of sale are available at ogs.ny.gov. Today’s auction will begin at 9:30 AM at the DOT at 241 Colesville Road, Binghamton.

The American Red Cross encourages eligible donors to give blood today. 2 blood drives will be held in Delaware County today, one in Sidney from 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM at the Sidney Federal Credit Union, at 42 Union Street & in Delhi from 11:00 AM to 5:00 PM at the State University Farrell Student & Community Center, at 2 Main Street. Those looking to donate blood can download the American Red Cross Blood Donor App, visit redcrossblood.org or call 1-800-RED CROSS to make an appointment. All blood types are needed.

FEMA has extended the deadline for policyholders who want to request a review of their Hurricane Sandy flood insurance claims. The new deadline is October 15th, 2015, for those who feel that their Hurricane Sandy flood insurance claim was underpaid. FEMA will review those claims; more information is available at 866-337-4262, weekdays from 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM.

First responders were called to 8129 State Route 23 in the town of Davenport yesterday morning at about 10:15 AM for a report of a vehicle that drove into a structure. State police reported that the unidentified driver of the vehicle suffered a medical emergency, swerved off the road, then crossed back across oncoming traffic and hit the house. The driver and a passenger were transported to Fox Hospital in Oneonta; no one was in the house at the time of the accident. The investigation is continuing.

Magic City Music Hall will be coming back to the Southern Tier; they will reopen at a new location at 1240 Front Street in the Northgate Plaza, at the site of a supermarket that closed 3 years ago. Magic City owner Stu Green comments:

(Stu Green 9-16-15)

Magic City Music Hall was forced to leave their former site on Harry L Drive in Johnson City in 2008 due to roofing concerns. WCDO will be giving away tickets for the first magic City Show with REO Speedwagon later this week. Tickets will be available for all shows starting this weekend.

State Comptroller Tom DiNapoli announced today his office approved 1,821 contracts valued at $1.9 billion and approved 1.7 million payments worth $8.5 billion in August. His office also rejected 191 contracts and transactions valued at $713 million and nearly 1,600 payments valued at $61.6 million due to fraud, waste or other improprieties. Major Contracts Approved specifically in August were for the State Department of Agriculture and Markets for State Fair expenses, including $2 million paid out for 15 contracts to provide entertainers & $1.4 million for 3 contracts for ambulances, mobile restrooms and bedding/manure removal for livestock.

Governor Cuomo announced today that recent investigations to protect exploited workers in New York State have led to nearly $3.3 million in back wages, damages and settlements for 800 workers. In the upstate counties, State Agriculture Labor Specialists assisted in recovering more than $9,000 in back wages for 23 farm workers who were underpaid. State investigators conducted more than 380 field visits and met with 300 agricultural businesses to offer hiring assistance and educate employers about labor law compliance and available resources. The agency has increased the number of field visits, reduced the number of violations and is protecting workers by helping more businesses comply with the law.

The state Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation today announced that $500,000 in grants are now available to help organizations to improve State parks, trails and historic sites. The grants are available for the program will be administered by State Parks and Parks & Trails New York. The program is designed to enhance the preservation, stewardship, interpretation, maintenance and promotion of State parks, trails and state historic sites; as well as promote the tourism and economic development benefits of outdoor recreation through the growth and expansion of a connected statewide network of parks, trails and greenways.

State Police arrested 25 year old Ian Kosciusko of Worcester for sexual abuse. The arrest occurred after troopers were advised of an incident that occurred on September 11, at the Holiday Inn on State Route 23, in the Town of Oneonta. An investigation determined that an employee had unwanted sexual contact with an adult victim, Kosciusko was arraigned and was remanded to the Otsego County Jail in lieu of $2,500 cash bail or $5,000 property bond, An order of protection was issued by the court.

Empire State College will hold public information session about its associate and bachelor's degree programs at its Binghamton location, State Office Building, Room 505, 44 Hawley Street, Binghamton today at 4:30 PM. More information is available at 721-8651.

This week the state assembly passed a package of bills to help those who have been victimized by various forms of Human Trafficking. Assembly Speaker Carl Heastie comments:

(Heastie 3-18-15)

The bills move onto the Senate for consideration, they have the support of Governor Cuomo.

Today, village elections will be held across New York State. In tri-county area mayoral races, incumbents are running unopposed; there are trustee positions up for election in Sidney, Unadilla, Greene, Delhi, New Berlin & oxford.

Today is Chenango County’s National Agriculture Day from 10:00 AM until 12:00 Noon At the Northeast Classic Car Museum at 24 Rexford Street in Norwich. Ag & Markets Commissioner Richard Ball and New York State FFA officer Kait Isaac from St. Johnsville in Montgomery County will be the guest speakers.

Empire State College will hold public information session about its associate and bachelor’s degree programs at its Binghamton location, State Office Building, Room 505, 44 Hawley Street, Binghamton today. The session will be held at 4:30 PM, more information is available at 721-8651.

Governor Cuomo announced that 11 more businesses plan to expand in or locate to New York State under the START-UP NY program. The businesses will invest nearly $30 million, creating 158 new jobs over the next 5 years in tax-free areas sponsored by State university schools. Morrisville State College will have 54 new jobs that will be created by Empire Farmstead Brewery at a microbrewery where beer will be manufactured for regional and international distribution. Also at Morrisville, K16 Corporation is a new technology device and software development firm focused on developing technology based solutions in teaching methods. K16 will be locating to on-campus space in Morrisville and create two net new jobs while investing $10,000.

State lawmakers are working toward getting a state budget together by the April 1st deadline, in spite of the governor’s acknowledgment that a budget might be late if ethics reforms are not passed. Area assemblyman bill Magee comments:

(Bill Magee 3-4-15)

Magee also said that Governor Cuomo proposed cuts to some agricultural programs, that they hope to have restored in the final budget plan.

The Kennedy performing arts center dancers of Sidney will be performing a routine at Madison square garden this weekend at a New York knicks basketball game. Nikki Reed of the Kennedy performing arts center explains:

(Nikki Reed 3-4-15)

Reed said that a recent fundraiser raised about $800 in order to pay to get the dancers to New York City to perform their routing in front of the crowd at Madison Square Garden.

State Attorney General Eric Schneiderman announced that since January 2011, his office has helped over 17,000 people successfully resolve their consumer complaints, totaling over $13.5 million in refunds and other relief for over 12,000 of those consumers. The largest number of complaints deals with the Automobile industry, followed by Credit and Identity Theft issues, the Service Industries, Utilities and Landlord/Tenant complaints. The Attorney General's Consumer Helpline for those who beleive they may have been victimized is 1-800-771-7755.

Budget hearings are continuing for the state budget, with a looming showdown between Governor Cuomo & lawmakers about ethics reform tied to the budget & a possible government shutdown. Assemblyman Pete Lopez said that he is all for ethics reform...for everyone in state government:

(Lopez 2-17-15)

The state budget is due April 1st; governor Cuomo said that he would not sign a budget unless stringent ethics reforms are passed, following the most recent arrest of former Assembly Speaker Sheldon Silver.

State Police arrested 35-year-old Michael Winner of Otego for the felony of Aggravated Driving While Intoxicated with a Child with a reportable BAC result of .17% and Endangering the Welfare of a Child. The arrest followed a vehicle stop on State Route 28 in Oneonta, Troopers accuse Winner of driving the vehicle while he was intoxicated, which became a felony as he had a 15 year old passenger with him as well as a prior conviction for DWI within the last ten years. Winner was arraigned in the Town of Oneonta Court and remanded to the Otsego County Jail in lieu of a $5,000 cash bail.

Pathfinder Village will host 3 informational Open Houses for their New "Otsego Academy" which is a 2-year post-secondary education program for young adults with intellectual disabilities. The first event will be at the Village’s Kennedy Willis Center in Edmeston on Thursday, February 19 from 2:00 to 4:00 PM, Director of Admissions Kelly Myers explains:

(Kelly Myers 2-17-18)

Myers said that the program started last November with 4 students, subsequent events will be hosted at Pathfinder Village on Thursday, March 19th & Saturday, April 18th. Pre-registration is recommended at 965-8377, ext. 154 or visit otsegoacademy.org.

Empire State College will hold public information session about its associate and bachelor’s degree programs at its Binghamton location, State Office Building, Room 505, 44 Hawley Street, Binghamton next month. The session will be held on Wednesday, March 18th at 4:30 PM, more information is available at 721-8651.

Officials at the Utica School of commerce announced that the vast majority of classes at the Oneonta Branch and Sidney Site would be suspended for the Spring Semester. All current students and re-entering students will be able to continue their programs at the Utica Campus with transportation provided by the college through Oneonta Bus Lines. The college will continue to maintain the Elm Street Oneonta facilities for student support functions, with the Learning Center -Library relocating there, and computers will be available for student use, 3 days per week. The USC Board of trustees sited a decline in enrollment and recent parking changes in Oneonta for the changes.

Governor Cuomo announced steps taken in New York State's "Reforming the Energy Vision" strategy to spur clean energy innovation and investment, improve customer choice and protect the environment. 5 new reforms will enable further growth of the clean energy industry and modernize how utilities operate, The 5 steps taken by the Public Service Commission follow through on the State's efforts to transform the energy system, details are available at governor.ny.gov

The Delaware County Sheriff's office announced the availability of text message notification as an enhancement to the New York Sheriffs' Victim Hotline known as "VINE". The hotline allows crime victims to learn the custody status of an offender 24-7 by 1-888-VINE-4-NY, the VINEMobile app, the Sheriffs Mobile Patrol App or at VineLink.com.

The Delaware County Broadband Initiative was awarded $2.9 million in matching New York State grant funding by the Southern Tier Economic Development Council following Governor Cuomo’s annual Regional Council Awards Ceremony on Thursday. The DCBI project will extend broadband services to the un-served residents and businesses, with over 210 miles of fiber optic facilities passing 1800 un-served and underserved households, businesses, and institutions in several towns in Delaware County. Additional information willl be posted at mtctelcom.com, delhitel.com, & dce.coop.

Manufacturing activity in New York State contracted for the first time in nearly 2 years. The New York Feds Empire state general business conditions index fell to –3.58 in December, falling to negative territory for the first time since January 2013. The new orders index tumbled –1.97 to 9.14 in November, the pace of growth in employment fell slightly with the index of the number of employees falling t 8.33 from 8.51. The survey of manufacturing plants in the state is 1 of the earliest monthly guideposts to U.S. factory conditions.

There has been a dramatic decline in the number of deaths in New York caused by AIDS. The state Health department recorded the number of AIDS related deaths were down by ¾’s from 1997 to 2012, when the number had dropped to 749. The decline is attributed to greater awareness on how the disease is spread and also powerful drug treatments for those diagnosed with the illness.

Only 2 in 5 New York state high-school students are ready for college-level work, according to College Board test results. Of the 154,809 members of the Class of 2014, who took the Scholastic Aptitude Test, only 60,611 students, or 39.2 percent, met the SAT’s benchmark for college and career readiness. Overall, New York trails the national average, in which 42.6 percent made the grade.

A public hearing about the proposed closure of the Broome County Mental Health Clinic is set for 6:00 tonight, at the Broome County Public Library at 185 Court Street in Binghamton.   The recent budget proposal from Broome County Executive Debbie Preston aims to cut more than 20 mental health positions at the clinic, the county legislature’s finance committee has set a public hearing on the mental health office’s budget (http://www.pressconnects.com/story/news/local/2014/09/24/buzz-comment-broomes-budget/16160557/) on October 22nd at 4:30 at the 6th floor legislative conference room of the County Office Building at 60 Hawley Street in Binghamton.

Governor Cuomo today launched new “GLOBAL NY” initiatives – including a $35 million Development Fund and trade missions to Mexico, Canada, Italy, China, and Israel – to help create new jobs in New York and attract international business investment to New York. The new initiatives include $35 million to help small- and medium-sized New York companies tap into global markets to grow their exports and create new jobs. For more information go to governor.ny.gov.

The 17th annual state Fallen Firefighters Memorial Ceremony, which honored nine firefighters who died in the line of duty, was held today at the Empire State Plaza in Albany. The memorial, dedicated in 1998, has 2,390 names on its wall, with the addition of this year's nine firefighters killed in the line of duty. To read the list of names go to memorial.fire-hero.com

State Senator James Seward announced $273,000 in state grants for local schools. The funding included $38,000 to support Milford Central School’s Career Opportunities in Rural Education Initiative. Seward also announced $25,000 general assistance grants for Charlotte Valley, Cooperstown, Franklin, Laurens, Margaretville and Morris Central Schools. The CORE program is designed to assist local schools and provide rural students with additional academic opportunities to help them compete with their metropolitan counterparts.

An information session for young people interested in the Young Entrepreneurs Academy will be held from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. today at Hartwick College in Oneonta. The program, presented through the Otsego County Chamber of Commerce, guides middle and high school students through launching and running a business or social movement. Sessions will begin Nov. 4 and continue through May.   For more information call the chamber at 432-4500.

State University of New York Empire State College will hold public information sessions about its associate and bachelor’s degree programs at its Binghamton location today. The session will be in the State Office Building, Room 505 at 44 Hawley Street, Binghamton today at 4:30 PM. More information is available at 721-8651.

Otsego County Sheriff, The state DEA, the Otsego County DA's office, & Oneonta Police arrested 22-year-old Nicholas Michael Torres of Mohegan Lake, following a 4-year investigation into heroin and oxycodone powder trafficking in and around Otsego County.  Torres allegedly distributed narcotics that were stolen from Covidien Pharmaceuticals in Hobart plant, he was taken into custody in Carmel, he was arraigned and was remanded to the Otsego County Jail on $25,000 bail returnable in the Town of Oneonta Court on August 21st

State Troopers arrested 19-year-old Victoria Niedbalec of Laurens for 3rd degree Assault. The arrest was the result of a dispute that occurred at a residence in Laurens, Niedbalec was arraigned in the Town of Laurens Court and remanded to the Otsego County Correctional Facility on $250 cash bail. An order of protection was issued by the town court against the suspect.

The Chenango County Sheriff's department arrested 25-year-old Christopher Bonno of New Berlin for Criminal Possession of Stolen Property. Bonno is accused of being in possession of a DeWALT Jig Saw, which was reported stolen on an earlier date from a parked vehicle in the Village of New Berlin. Bonno faces court action at a later date.

While voters in the Southern Tier support casino development, the majority of residents would not frequent a new gambling parlor once it's up and running, according to a Time Warner Cable News/Siena College poll. Southern Tier voters support casino development, 45 to 36%, 57% of the same voters said they would not likely frequent their region's casino. The Gaming Commission said the casino applicants would make presentations in front of the Gaming Facility Location Board on Sept. 8th and 9th in Albany. Public hearings are scheduled for Sept. 22 to 24th.

The state Education Department has produced a preliminary parents bill of rights on the use and security of student data. Lawmakers in April required the bill of rights, the appointment of a chief privacy officer and other changes to protect student data, after there was a statewide backlash against the Education Department's plans, to share identifiable student data with inBloom. The law forced New York to pull out of the inBloom project, which closed shortly thereafter.

Empire State Development has approved SUNY Broome Community College's plan for the START-UP NY economic development initiative, which establishes tax-free business areas around college campuses. The college plans to offer information sessions about the initiative, more information is available at 778-5012.

SUNY Oneonta has made Forbes magazine's ranking of America's Top Colleges. The State University College at Oneonta was ranked 167th in the Northeast and 520th overall on the annual list. Factors taken into consideration were student satisfaction, post-graduate success, student debt, graduation rate and academic success.

Up to $300 million has been made available through the State's NY Rising Housing Recovery Program, to support home elevations for 6,575 homeowners. Individuals eligible for funding experienced damage to their homes as a result of Super storm Sandy, Hurricane Irene and Tropical Storm Lee. The Optional Home Elevation and Mitigation Initiative is being offered, in addition to other housing recovery assistance that has been made available through NY Rising. More information is available at stormrecovery.ny.gov.

State University of New York Empire State College will hold public information session today about its associate and bachelor’s degree programs. The session will be held at the Binghamton location at the State Office Building, Room 505, 44 Hawley Street, at 4:30 PM.   More information is available at 721-8651.

State Troopers arrested 36-year-old Donald Moshier of Whitney Point for Criminal Obstruction of Breathing.  The arrest followed an investigation by Troopers to a dispute at a residence on State Route 206 in Triangle.   Moshier alleged choked the victim during an argument, he was arraigned in the Town of Triangle Court and released, he faces court action on March 20, and an order of protection was filed against Moshier.

State Police arrested 24-year-old Brett Gladstone of Walton for Felony DWI.  The arrest occurred after Police investigated a 1-car personal injury accident on State Route 206 & County Route 27 in the town of Tompkins.   Gladstone was intoxicated when he crashed his pick up truck into a tree off of the road; He refused to submit to a breath test.  Gladstone was arraigned in the Town of Tompkins Court and remanded to the Delaware County Jail in lieu of $5,000 cash bail.

Empire State College will hold public information sessions about their associate and bachelor’s degree programs today.  The sessions will be held at the Binghamton location, at the State Office Building, Room 505, 44 Hawley Street in Binghamton, beginning at 4:30 PM.  More information is available at esc.edu or 721-8651.

Governor Cuomo announced that Brad Paisley will kick off the Grandstand concert series at the State Fair on Thursday, August 21st .  Tickets will go on sale at 9:00 a.m. Saturday, March 29th

at the State Fair Box Office and through etix.com (http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001_xafOYAQqlZZ5AeFMP85KoTDgDC0nNff_g1Tvj1SN-6WnbWuDDQRsVQmoAfQJlxGeGkQ3LIPPPUz7p7_kbm9STVDHHD6lDh12vxjNpnctgyz5Cps1mQA_seYyodfyGpa30Alag6gcGx04BKqeoVkjghXNdH3TBWws0KTHmaakn8WuzTR2edjpwXMO6_ZgFux3XZi_JUMlFdSl_pLYuqXjlrkrFQ509xDigUYx5o2lY1nfcFq3zODBw==&c=PsFqXfKEwQihbkcFTss5SIIgEo0M_KrE_Wh_aFQVNWv7pxj615uftA==&ch=gmp5PBkqRBkOyZacA9XAdgPuBHPNqwAIMLRQZH6iUy8qiT2WYsQD1A==).

Delhi Police responded to the Sunoco gas station in the Village of Delhi Friday for a reported robbery.  Police had a description of the vehicle leaving the scene, it was located by state troopers in Stamford, who gave chase & apprehended 41-year-old Jamel Wilson of Hobart.  Wilson was charged with Driving While Ability Impaired by Drugs, & Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance, he was turned over to Delhi Police & was charged with 3rd degree Robbery, Petty Larceny, and 2nd degree Harassment. Wilson was arraigned in the Town of Delhi Court and remanded to the Delaware County Jail in lieu of $15,000 cash bail.

The Broome County Sheriff’s department responded to a 2-vehicle accident on I-81 Northbound lanes near the Chenango Bridge exit early this morning.  Preliminary reports are that a tractor-trailer carrying a milk tanker crossed the median & hit another vehicle, shortly before 6 a.m. Monday.  The tractor trailer landed on its side, spilling milk onto the roadway & median, the unidentified driver was extricated from the vehicle & the driver of was taken o an area hospital, the driver of the car was also taken from the scene & was brought to an area hospital.  The State DOT had to close 1 lane of traffic for the clean up, the investigation is continuing.

Governor Cuomo announced Empire State Development has approved more than $9 million in New York State Broadband Grants to support 5 projects to expand broadband access to y 33,000 households, 4,500 businesses and 55 institutions across Upstate counties.   During this approval round, Time Warner Cable, will receive approximately $5.3 million to expand services.  Local projects receiving funding the Otsego County Wireless Network for $558,940.

State tax collections through the first 10 months of the state’s fiscal year increased 4.2% from last year, but were below projections due to the timing of Personal Income Tax payments, according to the January 2014 cash report by State Comptroller Tom DiNapoli. Tax collections of $58.3 billion through January 31st were $2.4 billion higher than last year, but $413.3 million below projections in the Executive Budget proposal.

Governor Cuomo said he would sign a bill, if it passes the legislature, to allow state financial aid programs to cover college tuition costs for kids of illegal immigrants. The governor previously has said he supports a federal DREAM Act, but had not taken a position on a state version. While the Assembly intends to pass the measure again this week, it is unlikely there are enough votes in the Senate to send it to Cuomo's desk

State attorney General Eric Schneiderman said the Homeowner Protection Program has worked with 23,760 New Yorkers in the past 15 months, resulting in 6,660 approved and pending loan modifications. Since October 2012, it has helped fund 36 legal aid groups, and 56 housing counseling agencies, to help struggling homeowners avoid foreclosure. Schneiderman has recently proposed legislation to require lenders take responsibility for properties, abandoned by mortgage holders behind on payments, instead of waiting until the foreclosure process is complete. There are now more than 15,000 "zombie properties" statewide, with about 1,000 in the Southern Tier.

The Federal Energy Regulatory Commission found the Constitution natural gas pipeline project could have numerous impacts on the environment during construction and operation. The Constitution Pipeline would span Broome, Chenango, Delaware and Schoharie counties, it would deliver natural gas from Susquehanna County Pennsylvania to markets in New York and New England.  The commission released its Draft Environmental Impact Statement, it outlined additional mitigation measures that would be  needed to minimize or avoid potential impacts on water bodies, wetlands, and wildlife. After the final environmental impact statement is issued, commissioners will take the recommendations under consideration when deciding project approvals

New York will add a bonus license plate and other perks to its lifetime hunting and fishing licenses and offer new lifetime state parks passes. The cost of a lifetime hunting license is about $535. A lifetime fishing license is about $460 and a lifetime pass to state parks would cost $750. The permits come with decorative fishing and hunting "I love New York" state license plates, which will help the state advertise the outdoors. Tourism is $100 billion industry and the fifth-largest employer in the state.

Governor Cuomo said applications are being accepted for the Empire State Fellows, a program that allows individuals to serve in high-level administration positions within the Executive Branch. Candidates selected will be appointed to a position that best suits their skills and experience, and will work alongside senior administration officials.  The program hopes to recruit qualified professionals, college graduates and interns to serve in state government. To apply, email a cover letter, resume, personal statement and two letters of recommendation to fellows@exec.ny.gov.

State Senator Jim Seward has been named to 4 state senate budget sub-committees which will review the governor’s budget proposal and offer recommendations for modifications.  Seward will serve on the education, general government/local assistance, health, and higher education & arts sub-committees.  budget information can be accessed on Senator Seward’s website, senatorjimseward.com.

Oneonta City Court was sealed off and evacuated Monday morning after a suspicious powder substance arrived in an envelope.  Police, fire department,  New York court officers and postal inspectors all arrived on the scene, the substance was not hazardous and the court opened up a short time later.

New York plans to have its medical marijuana program functioning within a year, according to State health commissioner Dr. Nirav Shah, who testified at a legislative budget hearing.  Governor  Cuomo's plan would allow 20 hospitals to prescribe marijuana to chronically ill patients, on a limited basis.

State University of New York Empire State College will hold public information session about their associate and bachelor’s degree programs at the State Office Building 44 Hawley Street in  Binghamton today at 4:30 PM.  More information is available at 721-8651.

State police report that 21 year old Maisie Grant of Norwich was killed, when she drove her car into a tree Monday night.   Grant was driving on River Road in Unadilla, when she failed to negotiate a corner & crashed into a tree.  Grant was pronounced her dead at the scene.

State University of New York Empire State College will hold public information session about their Binghamton location at the State Office Building at 44 Hawley Street in Binghamton today 12:00 Noon.  More information is available at 721-8651.

PM NEWS 7-12-13

State University of New York Chancellor Nancy Zimpher today announced the launch of Phase II of SUNY Works, the system’s cooperative education and internship initiative. Eighteen campuses across the state are now expanding their icooperative education opportunities. Campuses launching SUNY Works as part of Phase II include UAlbany, SUNY Buffalo State, SUNY Oneonta and  Broome community college. Campus faculty will work with local employers to develop college courses that integrate classroom instruction and on-the-job work experience. For more information go to sunyworks@suny.edu.

Eliot Spitzer has met the deadline to file thousands of petition signatures for his bid to revive his political career by running for New York City comptroller. Spitzer said over 27,000 signatures were submitted to the city Board of Elections just after 10:30 p.m. last night, ahead of a midnight deadline. It came just four days after the tarnished ex-governor launched his campaign.

Statewide tourist spending rose 6.2 percent to $57.3 billion in 2012. Every region in the state saw growth in 2012 from the previous year, with the most dramatic increases in New York City and Long Island. The Central New York region, which includes much the Southern Tier, saw a 5 percent increase in 2012, when it brought in $1.9 billion according to Empire State development.

Oneonta Troopers arrested 17 year old Rob Shackelton of Coliersville for petit larceny following a complaint from the Walmart in the Town of Oneonta. hackelton was issued an Appearance Ticket for Town of Oneonta Court July 16

US senator Kirsten Gillibrand made an appeal to Department of Homeland Security Secretary Janet Napolitano in support of a major disaster declaration for parts of the Mohawk Valley, Southern Tier and North Country affected by storms and floods earlier this month. Gillibrand is requesting approval of the state’s request for the President to declare a major disaster, including FEMA assistance, for Chenango, Delaware, Herkimer, Madison, Oneida, and Otsego counties

Otsego county deputies arrested a Sidney man for selling heroin in Oneonta in July of 2012. 35 year old Ian Lee Borowski was charged with third degree criminal sale of a controlled substance. He was arraigned and sent to the Otsego county jail on $20,000 bail. He faces up to 12 years in prison if convicted due to a previous felony conviction

Assemblyman Cliff Crouch will host another informational forum, Saturday, July 20, about the NY SAFE Act, at the Walton Central School. Crouch will be joined by Delaware County Sheriff Tom Mills and Delaware County Clerk Sharon O’Dell.