WCDO Radio News

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.

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.

Governor Cuomo announced New York State has received $6.2 million in federal funds that will allow 90 community organizations, hospitals, police departments and district attorneys’ offices to enhance services and protections for victims of sexual assault and domestic violence. The grants will also support the work of health care professionals who are specially trained in examining sexual assault victims and collecting evidence that can be used by law enforcement, as well as allowing the New York State Coalition Against Sexual Assault to develop protocols and training that better address sexual assaults on college campuses.

AN OTSEGO COUNTY AGRICULTURE AND FARMLAND PROTECTION PLAN UPDATE PUBLIC FORUM, WILL BE HELD IN THE TOWN OF OTEGO TOWN BUILDING, TONIGHT AT 6:30 PM. THE FORUM IS FOR FARMERS TO SPEAK TO THE OTSEGO COUNTY FARMLAND PROTECTION PLAN COMMITTEE, REGARDING THE 2014 UPDATE, TO CREATE A FRAMEWORK FOR PROTECTING, PRESERVING AND ENHANCING AGRICULTURE IN OTSEGO COUNTY. FOR MORE INFO, CALL 547-8337.

The Student Councils at Unatego Jr/Sr High School will be sponsoring their annual Senior Citizen Day on December 17th. The day will begin at 8:30am, and will include breakfast, games, music, a raffle, and a concert. Reservations are encouraged, at 988-5098.

The Cancer Services Program of Delaware, Otsego and Schoharie counties will offer free health screenings to women 40 and older who are uninsured today. The Bassett Cancer Institute’s mobile screening coach will be open today from 9:00 am-3:00 pm at the Southside Mall parking lot in Oneonta, appointments are requested at 1-888-345-0225.

The Cancer Services Program of Delaware, Otsego and Schoharie counties will offer free health screenings to women 40 and older who are uninsured today in Unadilla. The Bassett Cancer Institute’s mobile screening coach will be available today from 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM at Great American in Unadilla; appointments can be made toll-free at 1-888-345-0225.

The American Red Cross will hold a blood drive today in Walton. All blood types are needed, especially O negative, A negative and B negative. Appointments can be made at the Red Cross Blood Donor App, redcrossblood.org or 1-800-RED CROSS for today's blood drive from 11:30 a.m. - 5:30 p.m., at the United Presbyterian Church, 58 East Street in Walton.

New campaign finance records show that Governor Andrew Cuomo spent more than $35 million on his successful bid for a 2nd term. Disclosures filed Monday show that Cuomo still has more than $9 million in his campaign account, & he raised $1.3 million in the period between October 24th & December 1st. Cuomo raised more than $45 million for his re-election; Republican Rob Astorino raised about $6 million over the entire campaign. Cuomo beat Astorino 52% to 40% on November 4th

The Cancer Services Program of Delaware, Otsego and Schoharie counties will offer free health screenings to women 40 and older who are uninsured today in Walton, in partnership with the Bassett Cancer Institute’s mobile screening coach. The coach will be available from 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM at the Bassett Healthcare Network Walton Health Center at 130 North Street, appointments are requested at 1-888-345-0225.

The American Red Cross is seeking blood donations today in Davenport. Eligible donors with all types are needed, especially those with O negative, A negative and B negative. Appointments can be made at redcrossblood.org or 1-800-RED CROSS, today’s blood drive will run from 12:00 Noon until 5:00 PM at the Charlotte Valley Central School.

The state will award more than $700 million in grants and tax breaks next week to projects submitted by the 10 Regional Development Councils. The 4th annual event is December 10th at The Egg in Albany. In the first 3 years, the state awarded more than $2 billion to 2,200 projects across the 10 regions. The money has helped create and retain more than 100,000 jobs. The Southern Tier council has had success in the competition, getting $91.1 million in 2012 and $81.9 million in 2013.

An advocate for the disabled has sued the Cuomo administration to get disclosures about crimes against disabled individuals in state care. The suit cites data from the Justice Center for the Protection of People with Special Needs showing more than 70,000 incident reports received in its first 11 months, with 1,402 abuse or neglect cases assigned to its investigators and another 7,572 referred back to state agencies contracting with nonprofits. Data show only 28 of 3,688 death reports investigated. The suit by the Jonathan Carey Foundation said data provided under New York's Freedom of Information Law omits requested details about crimes and why most reports were not assigned for investigation.

The Cancer Services Program of Delaware, Otsego and Schoharie counties will offer free health screenings to women 40 and older who are uninsuredin Sidney Today. The Bassett Cancer Institute’s mobile screening coach, health screenings will be available from 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM at Tri-Town Regional Hospital, 43 Pearl Sttreet West, appopintments can be made at 1-888-345-0225.

A New Siena poll on the Governor's race was released, it shows incumbent Democratic Governor Andrew Cuomo with a 29-point lead over his Republican Challenger Rob Astorino. The poll also shows Cuomo leading by 71 points within the democratic party and Cuomo's still popular among Republicans only trailing Astorino by 10 points within Astorino's own party. The general election is on Tuesday November 4th.

Governor Cuomo today announced $1.4 million in awards to help specialty crops, including agricultural products that go into craft beers and wines, remain strong in New York. The Specialty Crop Block Grant program administered by the State Department of Agriculture and Markets, includes fruits and vegetables, dried fruits, hops, and nursery crops, and works to enhance the competitiveness of New York farms by forming new partnerships to create innovations in agriculture that benefit the State’s economy. New York ranks in the top ten nationwide in a variety of specialty crops, including apples, grapes, sweet corn, tomatoes, pears, strawberries, Christmas trees, maple syrup, onions and cabbage.

State Comptroller Tom DiNapoli announced a new reduction in management fees for the state’s 529 College Savings Program’s Direct Plan. New York’s Direct Plan has more than 650,000 accounts valued at more than $16 billion. The 529 College Savings Program is an investment tool to help parents save for college. The Direct Plan offers a variety of investment options including three age-based portfolio options that parents can choose from based on risk tolerance and the age of their child. For more information about the program, visit osc.state.ny.us

Governor Cuomo announced that the State University of New York would put in place a comprehensive system-wide uniform set of practices to combat sexual assaults on SUNY campuses. The resolution was passed Thursday by the SUNY Board of Trustees, It includes a system wide definition of consent that is required between participants before engaging in sexual activity; an Immunity Policy to protect students coming forward to report sexual assault; A training program for campus police and administrators, Regarding how to address sexual assault incidents; and a Sexual Assault Victims Bill Of Rights that will inform a student of their rights following an attack, including the option of approaching State Police.

FAGAN FLYERS WILL HOLD A FLY-IN BREAKFAST ON SUNDAY FROM 8 TO 1 AT THE SIDNEY AIRPORT. ORANGE JUICE, EGGS, SAUSAGE, AND PANCAKES WITH REAL MAPLE SYRUP WILL BE SERVED. A 50/50 RAFFLE WILL ALSO BE HELD. ALL PROCEEDS ARE USED TO IMPROVE AND ENHANCE THE AIRPORT. The Grand finale cruise-In will also be held at the Airport Sunday, where a variety of antique & show cars will line up & trophies will be awarded in a number of categories.

The Cancer Services Program of Delaware, Otsego and Schoharie counties will offer free health screenings to women 40 and older who are uninsured. The Bassett Cancer Institute's mobile screening coach will be available Sunday from 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM at Fly Creek Cider Mill, 288 Goose Street, Fly Creek. Appointments can be made at 1-888-345-0225.

Norwich police arrested 47-year-old Jose Gonzalez of New Berlin Wednesday morning he was charged with criminal possession of a controlled substance & unauthorized use of a motor vehicle. Norwich Police officers located a stolen vehicle from New Berlin, they located Gonzalez nearby, and he was found to be in possession of 45 envelopes of heroin & 10 Hydrocodone pills. Gonzalez was arraigned in Norwich City Court, Gonzalez is scheduled to reappear in Norwich City Court Tuesday for his felony hearing, Gonzalez will be held at the Chenango County Jail pending future court action.

Attorney General Eric Schneiderman, Comptroller Thomas P. DiNapoli announced the arrest and indictment of New York State Assemblyman William Scarborough for allegedly stealing campaign funds and falsely collecting travel reimbursements. The 23-count state indictment accuses the Queens Assemblyman of withdrawing and diverting over $40,000 from the bank account of the “Friends of Bill Scarborough” campaign committee & using those funds for personal expenses. The 11-count federal indictment charges Scarborough with improperly claiming “per diem” expenses in excess of $40,000 for travel that didn’t take place. If convicted on all charges, he faces up to 37 years in prison.

The Cancer Services Program of Delaware, Otsego and Schoharie counties will offer free health screenings to women 40 and older who are uninsured, today at the Southside Mall in Oneonta from 9:00 to 3:00 PM, appointments can be made at 1-888-345-0225.

There will be a Republican primary in the 52nd Senate District. The state Board of Elections officially certified the primary between Denver Jones and incumbent Senator Tom Libous, following a legal battle over the validity of Jones’s signatures for the ballot. The state Supreme Court Appellate Division ruled Jones had at least 1,000 valid signatures of registered Republicans in the district.

In Delaware County, Polls will be open from Noon to 9 PM. Democrats will hold a Primary in all towns for Governor and Lt Governor. Republicans will hold a Primary in the Town of Franklin for Member of Council; in the 101st Assembly District that includes Andes, Bovina, Davenport, Delhi, Hamden and Meredith. Delaware County residents needing more information can call the County Board of Elections at 746-2315.

The Cancer Services Program of Delaware, Otsego and Schoharie counties will offer free health screenings to women 40 and older who are uninsured today, with the Bassett Cancer Institute's mobile screening coach. The Coach will be available from 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM today at the American Legion located at 176 Main Street in Laurens. Appointments are available at 1-888-345-0225.

40 year old Aaron Powell of Binghamton was sentenced Wednesday morning in Broome County Court, for 2 counts of 2nd degree murder & 1 count of 1st degree murder for the murders of his estranged wife Christina Powell & Mario Masciarelli in the Powell Family home. Powell was sentenced to 25 years to life for each 2nd degree murder charge and life without parole for the 1st degree murder charge.

The Cancer Services Program of Delaware, Otsego and Schoharie counties will offer free health screenings to women 40 and older who are uninsured, in partnership with the Bassett Cancer Institute's mobile screening coach. Health screenings will be available in Sidney from 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM today at Rite Aid Pharmacy on Main Street. Appointments can be made at 1-888-345-0225.

ACCO brands in Sidney announced that they would be adding 25 full time hourly manufacturing positions at their Sidney facility immediately. Job growth was attributed to the recent relocation of ACCO brands day-Timer operations form Allentown Pennsylvania to the Sidney facility. More information is available at accobrands.com.

Governor Cuomo announced the recipients of $340 million in full-day pre-kindergarten funding for 81 school districts and Community Based Organizations statewide, opening full-day classroom slots to nearly 37,000 children. The funding is the first installment as part of the State's commitment to invest $1.5 billion over 5 years to build a Statewide Universal Full-Day Pre-Kindergarten program.

The Cancer Services Program of Delaware, Otsego and Schoharie counties will offer free health screenings to women 40 and older who are uninsured. The Bassett Cancer Institute's mobile screening coach, will be available today from 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM at the Delaware County Chamber of Commerce at 5 Main Street Delhi, Appointments are requested at 1-888-345-0225 for your appointment.

State Police said more than 20,000 tickets were issued from August 6th through August 12th as part of its “Speed Week” campaign. 10,000 tickets were issued for speeding, 200 tickets for texting while driving, 550 for cell phone use, 200 DWI’s and more than 600 tickets in violation of the “Move Over Law.”

New York's public university system is the first to support a bipartisan federal effort that would strengthen colleges and universities' assistance, for sexual assault victims while establishing penalties for non-compliance. U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand said that the Campus Accountability and Safety Act l creates new standards for training, and calls for an anonymous annual survey of students, to provide an accounting of campus sexual assaults at colleges and universities.

A Grand Opening Ceremony is scheduled for August 25th for the new Skateboard Park in Keith Clark Park in Sidney. Ronnie Haag of the Sidney Youth Advocate program comments:

(Ronnie Haag 8-15-14)

Haag said that the new Skateboard Park is located between the Baseball Field & the Volley Ball Courts in Keith Clark Park.

The National Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum will host a blood drive, sponsored by the American Red Cross & Bassett Healthcare on Saturday, from 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM in Cooper Park adjacent to the Hall of Fame. Blood donors will receive free admission to the Museum on Saturday.

New York state students in grades 3-8 improved their performance in math in the 2nd year of Common Core testing, but their performance in English & Language Arts was the same. This year scores also showed significant gaps between racial and economic subgroups again. Common Core is expected to be a hot political issue in the coming gubernatorial campaign, with Republican & Conservative candidate Rob Astorino and Liberal Democrat Zephyr Teachout both vowing to get rid of the Common core standards if elected.

The Public Employees Federation endorsed Democratic candidate Zephyr Teachout over incumbent Andrew Cuomo, after contentious contract negotiations during his first term in office, and changes to the pension system for future state employees with lowered benefits. The New York State United Teachers declined to endorse a candidate in this year's governor's race.

The Cancer Services Program of Delaware Otsego & Schoharie Counties will offer free health screenings to women 40 & older who are uninsured. The screening with the Bassett Mobile Mammography Coach will be at the Delaware County Fair tomorrow in Walton from 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM. Appointments or more information is available at 1-888-345-0225.

The American Red Cross annual summer Communities that Care blood drive is today at the Holiday Inn in Oneonta from 11:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. The NY Penn Region requires 1,200 pints, or units, each day to keep pace with hospital needs, and a good turnout is needed to avoid a shortage. Call 1-800-RedCross or visit redcrossblood.org to make an appointment

The Cancer Services Program of Delaware, Otsego and Schoharie counties will offer free health screenings to women 40 and older who are uninsured. Today from 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM at Family Planning of South Central New York in Sidney. Appointments are requested at 1-888-345-0225.

By the end of this week, New York State will have trained about 600 police officers and sheriffs’ deputies in the use of naloxone, a medication that can save lives by reversing the effect of heroin or other opioid overdoses, including Hydrocodone & Oxycodone. The state also is providing agencies that send their officers to the trainings with supplies of naloxone at no cost. According to the CDC, someone dies every 19 minutes from a drug overdose.

The Cancer Services Program of Delaware, Otsego and Schoharie counties will offer free health screenings with the Bassett Cancer Institute’s mobile screening coach today.  The screenings will be available without charge to those women, 40 or older, who are without health insurance or underinsured. The screening will be available today between 9:00 AM & 3:00 PM at the Tri-Town Regional Hospital on Pearl Street in Sidney.  Appointments are requested at 1-888-345-0225.

Oneonta Police Department arrested 3 people on a variety of drug charges.  Arrested were 24-Year-old Adam Scully of Oneonta ,  22-year-old Ray Arnold of Oneonta for criminal possession of a controlled substance, Police confiscated 11 bags of heroin, also arrested was 25-year-old Cody Clapper of Oneonta, for conspiracy, criminal possession of a controlled substance and possession of a hypodermic instrument.  Scully, Arnold and Clapper were arraigned in the City of Oneonta Court and sent to the Otsego County Correctional Facility pending a future court action.

Governor Cuomo, state leaders & Industry & Tourism leaders held the 2nd Wine, Beer, Spirits and Cider Summit in Albany today.  The governor said that their efforts are paying off with an increase in jobs across the entire industry:

(Cuomo 4-8-14)

The Governor said that the 60 million dollars spent in tourism advertising has led to an increase in revenues for the tourism & Agriculture industries by over 4 billion dollars.

The Catskill Watershed Corporation has extended eligibility guidelines for its Septic Rehabilitation and Replacement Program.  Homeowners within the New York City Watershed in Delaware, Greene, Schoharie, Sullivan or Ulster Counties may be eligible for assistance if their property is within 300 feet of a watercourse, and if their homes were built prior to November 2, 1995.  The program pays 100% of the cost of replacing failed septic systems for permanent residences; 60% for non-primary residences.  Homeowners  who may be eligible for this program, should call  845-586-1400 to arrange for a CWC staff visit.

New York State of Health reported that Over 1.2 million New Yorkers have completed their applications and over 908,000 have enrolled for coverage since the launch of the Marketplace last October 1st.   More than 70% of those who have enrolled to date were uninsured at the time of application. New York State of Health will continue to provide additional assistance to individuals who began the application process by March 31. All applications and enrollments must be completed by the end of the day on April 15th.

On April 3rd Delaware County Deputies participated in Operation Safe Stop to combat the illegal passing of stopped school buses.   Deputies shadowed school buses during their morning and afternoon bus routes in the Downsville, Deposit, Delhi, Franklin and Stamford Central School Districts.  During the Operation deputies issued 1 traffic summons to an individual that passed a Franklin School District Bus that was stopped with flashing red lights.  Statistics show that increased awareness of school bus traffic laws has brought the umber of potentially deadly incidents way down since Operation Safe Stop began.

The prospects are not good for passage of a medical marijuana bill in the Legislature this year according to Assembly Speaker Sheldon Silver Silver said there has been “no interest” from the Senate in bringing up the issue for a vote. The Assembly’s Democratic majority included a medical-marijuana plan in its one-house budget resolution, but the issue never gained traction in closed-door budget negotiations.  In his State of the State address in January, Gov. Andrew Cuomo said his administration will authorize medical marijuana on a limited basis, allowing up to 20 hospitals statewide to prescribe it to terminally ill patients.

Over 300 firefighters responded to the 6-alarm fire at the 7-story Rexmere Hotel on west Main Street in Stamford yesterday. The building was constructed in 1898, and was currently in the process of being sold for eventual restoration.  10 fire departments responded to the blaze, which was reported about 10:30 Tuesday morning.  The cause of the fire is under investigation, no injuries were reported.

The Cancer Services Program of Delaware, Otsego and Schoharie counties will offer free health screenings to women 40 and older that are uninsured, in partnership with the Bassett Cancer Institute’s mobile screening coach.  The screenings will be available today from 9:00 am to 3:00 pm at The Sidney Great American.  Appointments can be made toll-free at 1-888-345-0225.

A Public Hearing on the Sidney Central School District 2014-2015 Budget will be held at the High School Library on Tuesday, May 13th at 7:00 PM.  The School & Public Library Budget vote and Board of Education elections will be held in the Sidney High School Lobby on May 20th between 7:00 AM & 8:00 PM.

Legislative leaders and Governor Cuomo continued budget discussions yesterday as lawmakers said they would seek to add $500 million in state spending,  $240 million of it would go toward extra school aid.  Lawmakers said that revenue is higher than Governor Cuomo’s projections; lawmakers have yet to determine where the extra money would be spent. The budget is expected to be passed by the April 1st deadline.

A former Walton teacher, who was indicted on charges of rape and having sex with 2 underage students, has been charged again for those crimes.  29-year-old Stephanie Fletcher is charged with 2 counts of 3rd degree rape and 4 counts of 3rd degree criminal sexual act.  Fletcher is accused of having sex with two minors under 17 between January and March 2012. The new indictment was filed on March 6th; Fletcher will be arraigned in Delaware County Court March 27th

Investigators from the State Police Troop C Violent Felony Warrant detail arrested 34-year-old Kalief Spriel on an arrest warrant, following an appearance at the Town of Chenango Court for an unrelated traffic ticket. Spriel was charged with  Criminal Possession of Stolen Property, 1st degree Identity Theft, Forgery, and Falsifying Business Records & Grand Larceny.   Spriel was wanted in Onondaga County Sheriff’s Office, he was arrested without incident & was turned over to the Onondaga County Sheriff’s Office for processing.

Delaware County Sheriff's Deputies arrested 26-year-old Jody Barnes of Franklin Thursday on 1 count of Criminal Mischief.  Barnes is accused of driving a vehicle on the Franklin Central School Athletic Field on March 13th, causing in excess of $5000 damage to the Field.  Barnes was arraigned in the Town of Delhi Court and released on recognizance pending a future court appearance.

The Chenango County Sheriff’s Office arrested 23-year-old Natasha Donnelly of Otselic on charges of Criminal Mischief & 2nd degree Harassment.  Donnelly is accused of striking the victim in the face and damaging some of the victim’s property during a domestic dispute, she was arraigned in the Town of Otselic Court and was released; she will reappear in the Town of Otselic Court at a later date.

State Senator Jim Seward announced Senate approval of his legislation allowing the dissolution of the Montgomery, Otsego, Schoharie Solid Waste Authority.  The bill also includes a plan for the distribution of the authority’s assets and liabilities among the 3 member counties. The bill has been sent to the assembly where it was introduced by area Assemblyman Bill Magee.

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.

The Cancer Services Program of Delaware, Otsego and Schoharie counties will offer free health screenings to women 40 and older who are uninsured today.  The Bassett Cancer Institute’s mobile screening coach will be available today at the Price Chopper Parking Lot in Delhi from 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM, appointments can be made at 1-888-345-0225.

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==).

The State Department of Taxation and Finance announced that it has issued $1 billion in refunds and reminded New Yorkers to use free e-filing options for faster refunds. Refunds have been issued to more than 1.1 million taxpayers - a 50% increase over last year's total by this date, More than 97% of the 3.1 million returns received this year have been e-filed. The average refund for e-filers is issued in 22 days; refunds for paper filers can take 8 to 12 weeks. The average refund to date is $906.

Governor Cuomo’s controversial plan to have state prisoners get a free college education, as a way to cut down recidivism, has been widely ridiculed over the last week.  Area assemblyman Cliff Crouch said that his constituents don’t like it at all:

(Cliff Crouch 2-27-14)

State lawmakers went back to work this week, next week they will get revenue projections for the budget, and get ready to break into conference committees, crouch said that he expects another on-time budget this year.

A safety agreement between U.S. transportation officials and railroads that haul crude oil doesn’t go far enough to protect upstate communities, according to US Senator Charles Schumer.  Schumer said the agreement should be amended to phase out unsafe tanker cars and reduce train speed in populated areas. The agreement between the U.S. Transportation Department and the Association of American Railroads leaves out tens of thousands of tank cars known to split open during derailments. Trains pull hundreds of tankers of crude oil from North Dakota cross New York daily.  Environmental groups have called on the state DEC to do a full environmental impact study of the oil shipments.

The New York Attorney General’s Charities Bureau said telemarketers kept, on average, 62 cents of every dollar they raised in New York in 2012, leaving 38 cents for the charities themselves. The bureau report shows for-profit telemarketers, operating in the state, kept more than $154 million out of $249 million that was intended to help those in need. Last year, the Attorney General’s Office subpoenaed records and launched investigations & shut down 3 charities and 1 fundraiser. In 459 of the 589 campaigns in the report, the charities retained less than half the money raised.

State Senator Jim Seward announced senate approval of legislation he co-sponsors, extending a 2011 law to ensure the neediest public libraries can access and utilize special construction grants from the state.  Seward’s bill would extend key provisions of the public library construction grant program to March 31st 2020, they were scheduled to sunset in 2015. The bill has a sponsor in the state assembly.

The Cancer Services Program of Delaware, Otsego and Schoharie counties will offer free health screenings to women 40 and older that are uninsured, in partnership with the Bassett Cancer Institute’s mobile screening coach.  The screenings will be available without charge to those women, 40 or older, who are without health insurance or underinsured on Wednesday, March 26th from 9:00am to 3:00pm at The Sidney Great American.  Appointments can be made toll-free at 1-888-345-0225.

Governor Cuomo announced that New York motorists can now receive email reminders and text messages from the State DMV notifying them when their Vehicle registrations or inspections are due to expire. DMV Commissioner Barbara Fiala explains:

(Barbara Fiala 2-19-14)

More information on the nearly 40 online services offered by DMV, visit the Department's website at dmv.ny.gov.

The Cancer Services Program of Delaware, Otsego and Schoharie counties will offer free health screenings to women 40 and older who are uninsured. The Bassett Cancer Institute’s mobile screening coach will be available today from 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM Walton Family Planning, 130 North Street, Walton. Appointments can be made at 1-888-345-0225.

The Otsego County Sheriff's Dept. arrested 47-year-old Rich Compitello of Worcester after officials seized $35,000 in drugs from his residence.  Compitello was charged with criminal possession of marijuana,  criminal possession of a controlled substance, criminal possession of a weapon and unlawfully growing of cannabis by an unlicensed person. Deputies & agents from the Drug Enforcement Agency seized 6 pounds of marijuana, 10 grams of psychedelic mushrooms, a digital electronic scale, a blackjack, a dagger, $1,688 in cash and several loaded high-powered rifles and shotguns. An additional 17 marijuana plants and more than a pound of loose marijuana, as well as a loaded .22-caliber rifle, were seized from a separate building. Compitello was sent to the county jail on $2,500 bail to re-appear February 20th.

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.

Free tax counseling will be available for some Delaware County residents through the Free Tax Counseling for the Elderly program.  Senior citizens and low- and moderate-income residents can receive free tax preparation assistance for basic returns. Counseling will be available February 19th, March 12th and April 9th at the Sidney Civic Center.  For more information call 563-2212

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.

Delaware County Sheriff's Investigators arrested 40-year-old Kelly Abbes, also known as Kelly Zimmerman, for Criminal Sale of a Controlled Substance, 4th degree Conspiracy, Criminally Possessing a Hypodermic Instrument & Unlawful Possession of Marihuana.  Abbes is accused of selling Heroin in the Village of Stamford and then conspiring to obtain and sell Heroin, she was arraigned in the Town of Delhi Court and was ordered held in lieu of $20,000 cash bail.

State Police in Norwich arrested 27-year-old DARREN POLLOCK of Norwich on   10 counts of promoting a Sexual Performance by a Child.  Members of the Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force, State Police and Norwich City Police made the arrests following a joint investigation.  POLLOCK was arraigned in the Norwich Town court and remanded to the Chenango County Jail on $5,000 cash bail pending future court appearances.

The Cancer Services Program of Delaware, Otsego and Schoharie counties will offer free health screenings to women 40 and older who are uninsured, in partnership with the Bassett Cancer Institute’s mobile screening coach.  The Coach will be at the Sidney Price Chopper from 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM today, more information and appointments can be made at 1-888-345-0225 for your appointment.

UHS Chenango Memorial Hospital in Norwich is expanding hours for UHS Primary Care, after taking on new primary care providers. A Saturday morning convenience clinic is expected to open January 18th at 4 Newton Avenue in Norwich, with hours from 9:00 AM to Noon. The clinic will serve both pediatric and adult patients by appointment. UHS Primary Care practices will also expand office hours in some locations to allow earlier morning and later evening appointments.

The “Oneonta area for public information” will be holding a 2nd forum in Oneonta tomorrow,  as parents, administrators & Teachers have concerns about a series of new programs & tests for students & teachers, that have been implemented over the last couple of years.  Danielle Boudet  is the Founder of the group:

(Danielle Boudet 1-17-14)

The forum will be held at 2:00 PM Saturday at the Oneonta High School auditorium, and all  are welcome to attend.

The Cancer Services Program of Delaware, Otsego and Schoharie counties will offer free health screenings to women 40 and older who are uninsured.  Bassett Cancer Institute’s mobile screening coach will be in Sidney on Wednesday, February 12th at 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM at the Price Chopper in Sidney.  appointments can be made at 1-888-345-0225.

New York’s new restrictions on ammunition sales took effect today, requiring all sellers to register with state police and buyers to appear in person to get bullets. It’s part of the New York Safe Act law passed a year ago by Governor Cuomo & the legislature.  The law requires transactions to take place in person & it even includes Internet sales, which will require the face-to-face involvement of a New York-licensed seller. The law will also require retailers to record sales and do background checks on buyers as required now for gun sales once a state database is operating.

State police arrested 33-year-old Lamar Jones of Laurens for 3rd degree assault.  The arrest resulted from a dispute at the Valley View Trailer Park on County Road 11 in Laurens, where Jones is accused of punching & injuring an unidentified victim.  Jones was arraigned in the Town of Laurens Court and remanded to the Otsego County Jail in lieu of $1,000 cash bail.  An order of protection was issued by the court

Thousands took to the State Capitol Tuesday to call on Governor Cuomo to increase school aid. They want Cuomo to increase school aid by $1.9 billion, which they say will not only address equality issues for smaller schools but also support Pre-K classes.

The Chenango County Sheriff's Department arrested a 14 Year old Oxford Youth for 1st degree Sexual Abuse & 1st degree Criminal Sexual Act 1st Degree.   The unidentified youth was charged for allegedly subjecting a child under the age of 11 to sexual contact. The youth was issued a juvenile appearance ticket and released to reappear at Chenango County Probation Department.

New Yorkers have contributed more than $51 million for worthy causes through check-offs on their personal income tax forms, but these funds often sit unused, according to a report issued today by State Comptroller Tom DiNapoli. More than $14 million has accumulated in 6 check-off funds, with nearly 90% of that for health-related causes including breast cancer, prostate cancer and Alzheimer’s disease.  DiNapoli’s report found that spending from the 6 dedicated funds with accumulated balances has declined in the last 5 years; a copy of the report is available at visit osc.state.ny.us.

Consumer confidence fell in every region of the state during the last three months of 2013 according to Siena College. New York City consumers expressed the most optimism heading into 2014, while the Binghamton region showed the most pessimism. Every region of the state showed a decline over the fourth quarter of 2013 compared to 2012, while each portion of the state outside of Long Island dipped from the 3rd quarter to the 4th quarter of last year.

The Cancer Services Program of Delaware, Otsego and Schoharie counties will offer free health screenings to women 40 and older who are uninsured. The Bassett Cancer Institute’s mobile screening coach will be available Wednesday, February 19th from 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM Walton Family Planning, 130 North Street, Walton.  Appointments can be made at 1-888-345-0225 for your appointment.