WCDO Radio News

Governor Cuomo directed that flags on state government buildings be flown at half-staff today in honor of the 61 men and women who lost their lives to Superstorm Sandy. Governor Cuomo also asked for a moment of silence in memory of those who were lost as well as the countless others whose lives were disrupted, at 8:00 tonight, marking the approximate time when the storm surge first began in New York.

A meeting of the Otsego County Water Quality Coordinating Committee will be held today, featuring a presentation about the new parking lot at Glimmerglass State Park. The meeting begins at 1:00 PM in Classroom A of The Meadows Office Building & is hosted by the Otsego County Planning Department. This event is free and open to the public.

State Troopers arrested 25-year-old John Posson of Norwich for 3rd degree Assault, following a complaint by a woman that claimed that she was punched in her right eye, during a fight at the American Legion in South Otselic. Posson was released with a ticket returnable to the Town of Otselic Court on October 13th.

The state DEC announced the 3rd Annual youth Deer hunt this weekend, with more than 15,000 Eligible Junior Hunters Anticipated To Participate. The Deer Hunt will take place in the upstate counties Saturday through Monday; 14- and 15-year old junior hunters may take a deer of either sex with a firearm when accompanied by a licensed and experienced adult mentor. Rules are available at dec.ny.gov/outdoor.

A missing Windsor man was found yesterday after a daylong search involving multiple public safety agencies and volunteers. 30-year-old Brian McNulty was missing since Tuesday. When a cell phone provider indicated his phone might be in a wooded area off Grove Street, state DEC forest rangers and the Windsor Fire Department were called in to aid in the search, along with the sheriff's office K-9 unit. McNulty was found semi-alert, on an island in the Susquehanna River in the Village of Windsor at 3:10 p.m. He was flown by helicopter to Wilson hospital in Johnson City

The Delaware Valley Humane Society is sponsoring "Walk For Paws" fundraiser tomorrow from 9:00 AM until 1:00 PM, at the Sidney Walking Trails, located at the Keith Clark Park on River Street in Sidney. Registration will be at the Cable House at the entrance to the park. Forms can be picked up at the Delaware Valley Humane Society at 101 East Main Street, Sidney.

A candlelight vigil will be held today in honor of State Trooper Christopher Skinner at 6:00 PM at Port Dickinson Community Park. The event is organized by the town and by State Police Troop C, & is open to the public. Trooper Skinner had pulled over a car May 29 on I-81 in Chenango Bridge, he was out of his patrol vehicle & hit by a white truck allegedly driven by Almond Upton of Melrose, Florida. Upton has been indicted on 11 charges, including 1st degree murder.

The State University of New York community college system, applied for a $15 million federal grant, to fund worker-training programs. U.S. Senator Charles Schumer is pushing the U.S. Labor Department, to approve the application to establish training programs in mechatronics and advanced manufacturing. Mechatronics incorporates engineering, mechanics and electronics. Schumer said 20,000 new jobs are possible in upstate New York through 2020. The U.S. Labor Department is expected to make a decision on the grant application within the next 2 months.

Governor Cuomo announced the I LOVE NEW YORK fall foliage report is available online. The report tracks the color change in foliage throughout the state through November. The governor also announced a social media campaign called “Foliage Photog of the Week.” Each week, one picture submitted on Twitter, Instagram or Facebook would be used to promote fall tourism. For information, or for a map on the best fall foliage viewing spots, go to ILOVENY.com.

State Senator Tom Libous has spent more than $100,000 in campaign funds on attorneys this year, according to the state Board of Elections. The Thomas Libous' re-election campaign spent another $53,000 on criminal-defense attorneys from mid-July to late August. That's on top of the $60,000 it spent on lawyers from mid-January through mid-July, as well as about $75,000 in 2012 and 2013. Libous was indicted in White Plains federal court in July on a charge of lying to the FBI. The use of campaign funds to pay for attorney fees has been the subject of debate in Albany. Gov. Cuomo's latest filing shows he spent $10,000 on an attorney as an investigation continues into the dismantling of the Moreland Commission

The Chenango County Sheriff's Department arrested 63-year-old David Eaton of Norwich felony DWI, Parking on Pavement, No or Improper Signal, Refusal to take a Breath Screen test, Consumption of an alcohol in a motor vehicle. Eaton was pulled over by a deputy, who observed a pickup truck pull over and park in a no parking zone in the Village of Sherburne hitting the curb, as the deputy approached, Eaton pulled away from the curb with no turn signal, and then stopped after driving a block, he was taken into custody without incident, failed to submit to the chemical test, and was arraigned in the Village of Sherburne Court, he was remanded to the Chenango County Jail on $1,000 cash bail pending court action at a later date.

Governor Cuomo signed a bill that will enhance law enforcement efforts to identify previously unknown deceased persons. The bill will require that the state Division of Criminal Justice Services provide local law enforcement agencies with personal descriptions and other identifying information of unidentified deceased persons. This legislation allows this information to be accessed by all New York law enforcement agencies and also to agencies outside of the State by request. There are currently a total of 681 active cases of unidentified individuals who have died in New York State, with the oldest active record on file dating back to 1969.

Researchers are looking at whether money, from the Marcellus Shale natural gas boom, helps families in regions where companies are drilling, to compare Pennsylvania communities that have experienced the boom, during the last six years, with nearby ones in New York that haven't. New York has a moratorium on shale drilling, while Pennsylvania has become the second-largest producer in the nation. Some families in fracking communities get millions of dollars in royalties, many get tens of thousands of dollars, but others get nothing. The research will compare government-collected data that doesn't identify people. That includes data on crime, schools, economics, childhood obesity, teen pregnancies and state tax records on royalty income

Governor Cuomo announced 12 Citizen Preparedness Corps training sessions across New York State and also proclaimed September as Preparedness Month. The Citizen Preparedness Corps program, administered by the New York National Guard, aims to provide approximately 100,000 New Yorkers with the tools and resources to prepare for emergencies and disasters, respond accordingly and recover as quickly as possible to pre-disaster conditions. Those interested in attending a Citizen Preparedness Corps training session can visit www.prepare.ny.gov. Local Classes will be held on Wednesday, September 17th from 5:30 to 7:30 PM at the Margaretville Central School & at 6:00 p.m. at SUNY Morrisville in Morrisville

State Police arrested 91 year old Edward Wist of Deposit for Forcible Touching and Endangering the Welfare of a Child.  The investigation determined that the victim was a 13 year old girl. Wist was arraigned in the Town of Windsor Court and released without bail set.

Attorney General Eric Schneiderman today announced awards in Binghamton, to law enforcement agencies in the Southern Tier, to help law enforcement agencies purchase bulletproof vests.  The funding awarded today assists with the purchase of vests for the City of Binghamton Police Department, Steuben County Sheriff’s Office, Watkins Glen & Horseheads Police Departments, among others.  So far, the program has helped with the purchase of over 7,500 bulletproof vests for across the state.

Unless the state's top court intervenes, there will be a Republican primary between incumbent State Senator Tom Libous and challenger Denver Jones in the 52nd senate district. A ruling issued by an Albany court, reversed an earlier decision that had invalidated hundreds of Jones' petition signatures, Albany County Supreme Court Judge Tom McNamara's ruling validated Jones' petition with 1,019 signatures enough to qualify him to be on the ballot for the September 9th primary. The Republican candidate for the seat will face Democratic candidate Anndrea Starzak, the former Vestal Town Supervisor, in the November election.

Farm owners will be a bit happier with school tax bills this coming fall, following the institution of a tax cap by the state legislature and governor Cuomo. New York farm Bureau President Dean Norton comments:

(Dean Norton 8-28-14)

The bill was co-sponsored by area Assemblyman Bill Magee, who has chaired the Assembly Agriculture Committee for the last several years.

The state DEC said current fishing regulations would extend through the end of March 2015, with a new regulations guide available April 1st.   Fishing licenses are now effective 365 days from the date of purchase.  DEC commissioner Joe Martens said it made sense to adjust the dates of fishing regulations to coincide with April 1st opener of trout season.

The Bainbridge Chamber of Commerce is sponsoring Bainbridge Days activities this Saturday. Festivities will include bands performing in the park, vendors, crafters and a cruise in with peoples’ choice awards in three categories. Local businesses join in the fun by offering Labor Day specials and there will be village-wide lawn sales. A bounce house and dunk tank will give proceeds to benefit the BG school

A state program to finance affordable housing has contributed to delays in building and rehabilitating homes, because of the questionable selection and lax monitoring of construction projects. The audit by state comptroller Tom DiNapoli focused on the Low-Income Housing Trust Fund, where state money creates and preserves housing for low-income households. The program awards up to $44.2 million a year in loans & grants, auditors found projects representing about 4,400 housing units had experienced construction delays of at least 6 months because of the management of the state housing agency.

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 State’s private sector job count grew by 17,300, or 0.2% in July according to the State Labor Department. The State’s overall private sector job count is 7,603,300, the unemployment rate was unchanged at 6.6%. July marked the State’s 20th consecutive month of private sector job growth.

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.

P.M. NEWS WEDNESDAY 7-30-14

A Fenton man has been arrested on charges of promoting child pornography.  75-year-old Ray Parkes was charged following an investigation by the state police computer crime Unit.  Investigators served a search warrant at Parkes residence in the town of Fenton, he was charged with 3 counts of promoting a sexual performance by a child & 1 count of possessing a sexual performance by a child.  Parkes was arraigned in Town of Fenton court and was remanded to the Broome County Jail on $5000 bail pending future court action.

The Otsego County Sheriff's Office arrested 18-year-old Paul Clark Jr. of Charlotteville, on charges of Aggravated vehicular homicide, Vehicular manslaughter, Vehicular assault, Criminally negligent homicide, DWAI, reckless driving, & several misdemeanors & traffic infractions.  Officers accuse Clark of driving while on drugs & driving too fast when he crashed a 2000 Saturn into a parked FedEx truck in South Worcester 2 months ago.  Police said that there were 2 other people in Clark’s car, Devon McMahon died and Maureen Clark was injured.  Clark surrendered at the sheriff’s office, he was arraigned & and posted $10,000 bail, he faces court action September 2.

The City of Oneonta Police Department has received multiple reports of a scam circulating the area. A person calls and claims to be a representative of NYSEG and requests a credit card payment be made to satisfy a past due account. If you receive such a call police advise you call NYSEG directly using the numbers listed on your billing statement. Do not give out personal information over the phone to persons whom you cannot positively identify.

Members of Governor Cuomo's administration met with advocates for medical marijuana as some lawmakers called on him to speed up the state's issuance of the drug. Deputy Secretary for Health Courtney Burke and Howard Zucker, acting commission of the state Department of Health, were among those who met with the governor, they are urging Cuomo to consider ways to get the drug to terminally ill patients more quickly. Under the law, the Department of Health has 18 months to get the medical-marijuana system up and running.  The law allows the drug in non-smokeable form for patients who suffer from serious diseases or conditions -- including HIV and epilepsy -- and gives authority to the Department of Health to regulate it.

New York should refund $200 million in federal Medicaid overpayments, according to federal health officials. The total is derived from several audits of different parts of the Medicaid program. The State Health Department will appeal the decision. Federal auditors came up with the number as a result of several audits of state-operated facilities, home health care services, day treatment centers for people with mental illness, billing for orthodontic and dental services, and treatment of people with traumatic brain injuries. The federal government pays half the cost of Medicaid health services for the poor in New York.

The Broome County Sheriff's Office received a call regarding a motorist acting strangely in the parking lot of the Sonic restaurant at 1103 Upper Front St., in the Town of Chenango last night. Upon arrival, police located 50-year-old Mary Jones of Binghamton, Field Sobriety tests were conducted and Jones was arrested for DWI with a BAC of 0.14%. Following her arrest, she was also found to possess a small amount of marihuana. She was released with tickets to appear in Town of Chenango court at a later date.

The 2014 Rock In the Park concert tickets are available at several locations, for the August 17th show in Bainbridge.  Organizer Jason Hall comments:

(Jason Hall 7-30-14)

The concert will be at General Clinton Park, featuring local favorites Woodshed Prophets, American idol contestant Kaitlyn Jackson, as well as national country music acts Chris Janson and Headliner Daryl Singletary.

The State Division of Criminal Justice Services, the state health department ant the office of alcoholism & substance abuse services joined forces to train police officers from the Southern Tier and Capital Region in the use of Naloxone which reverses the effect of overdoses caused by heroin or other opioids, such as hydrocodone and oxycodone. The state also is providing agencies that send their officers to the trainings with supplies of naloxone at no cost. Today’s session was held at SUNY Delhi, with more than 40 officers from 9 agencies getting the training.

State Police arrested 56-year-old Perry Webb & 52-year-old Charles Holmes of New Lisbon, for Petty Larceny and Criminal Trespass. The arrests resulted from a complaint of a missing silo loader from a farm in Morris, the investigation determined that both suspects allegedly took the silo loader from the property without permission, & scrapped it an a salvage yard in New Berlin, for $46. Webb and Holmes were issued tickets returnable to the Town of Morris Court on August 11th.

State agencies have begun adding gender identity to their data collection, as part of an effort Governor Cuomo said will help the state better meet the needs of lesbian, gay, bi-sexual and transgender New Yorkers. A new report identifies 8 agencies, including the Department of Health, collecting or updating their data systems to gather those demographics.

Legislation has passed the State Assembly and Senate to update current Internet privacy laws to protect victims of “revenge porn” whose explicit photos are posted online without their consent. Current privacy laws protect people only if recorded images or video show intimate parts of their bodies, Hence the images might not meet criteria for prosecution, even if they are posted for the purpose of humiliation and are sexually explicit in nature. Under the new legislation, existing surveillance law would be updated to make non-consensual broadcast of individuals engaged in sexual contact a felony.

The Coventry Emergency Squad was awarded $143,000 in grant money, to purchase an updated ambulance to allow the squad to provide better, safer emergency care. The funding was allocated through the Department of Homeland Security's assistance to firefighters grant program

Officials with the General Clinton Canoe Regatta & The Bainbridge Chamber of Commerce announced that the historic LaFever Canoe, which had been stolen from the Regatta Museum at General Clinton Park, was located by a passerby, under the route 206 bridge in Bainbridge yesterday. Officials posted the loss of the canoe yesterday on social media, they said that the canoe will placed back on display at the Museum more securely. State Police are investigating.

Cullman Community Day will be held this Saturday in Sidney, with a variety of activities planned, mostly at Keith Clark Park.    Cullman director Amy Williams explains:

(Amy Williams 7-22-14)

The public is invited to attend and participate; more information is available at 563-7529.

State residents will vote on the $2 billion Smart Schools Bond Act in November, for improvements to high-speed Internet connections, classroom technology, security systems and pre-K construction. Governor Cuomo set up a commission to look at how to spend the money and set up meetings to gather ideas if the bond is approved. The bond would also pay for training of school staff to use the various new technologies.

New York ranks among the top 5 states for children's health, according to the Kids Count Data Book released by the Annie E. Casey Foundation. The report looks at recent trends that compare data from 2005 to 2012; New York showed improvement in all 8 categories of health and education for children. The number of children who didn't graduate from high school in 4 years fell from 33% in 1990 to 22% in 2012. The number of teen births dropped & the number of children in high-poverty areas remained stable at 17%. The number of children in single parent families rose by 24% from 1990 to 2012.

State Police at Norwich arrested 47-year-old Tom Connelly of New Berlin for 2nd degree Harassment following a dispute on South Main Street in New Berlin.  An investigation determined he punched and shoved the victim during a dispute.  Connelly was arraigned in Town of New Berlin Court and sent to the Chenango County Jail on $500.00 bail.  An order of protection was issued by the court against Connelly.

The state labor department released unemployment statistics for the month of June.  State wide, the rate dropped 1/10th the 6.6%, locally, Chenango county’s rate was at 5.6%, Delaware county at 6.3% & Otsego county’s rate was at 5.3% in June.

The State Association of Realtors released its June home sale information. Across the state, new listings were up 11% compared to June 2013. The number of sales was down 6%, median sale price down 3% and total number of homes for sale down 2%. Locally, in Broome County, new listings were up 19%, the number of sales was down 11%. In Delaware County, new listings were up 21%, the number of sales was down 13%  & in Chenango County, new listings were up 305 and the number of sales closed was down 38%.

National Weather service officials have confirmed 8 tornadoes in our area in the last week.   Officials said that 8 Tornadoes is unusually high, the region only averages a few tornadoes a year.  Officials said that severe weather tends to come in cycles, with the most recent year with similar activity is 1998.   The latest confirmation was that a tornado hit the Sullivan county hamlet of Parksville on Sunday, with 90 mile an hour winds, making that tornado ranked as an "EF-1".

The Anti-Fracking movement claimed victory this week when a supreme court judge tossed out lawsuits from the Joint Landowners Coalition and Norse energy, the 2 entities were trying to push Governor Cuomo to make a decision on Hydrofracking after 6 years of a moratorium.  Republican Gubernatorial Candidate Rob Astorino vowed to move forward with allowing hydro-fracking is elected as governor in the November election.  Governor Cuomo inherited the gas-drilling moratorium from the previous administration of David Paterson; research is still being performed by the state health department following thousands of [public comments on the issue.

State attorney General Eric Schneidermann announced that almost 23 million records of New Yorkers have been exposed to 5,000 data breaches since 2006.  Schneiderman reported that 7.3 million records of New Yorkers were exposed in about 900 data breaches last year alone, including the highly publicized Target breach as well as Living Social. Schneiderman is urging businesses to identify and minimize data collection practices and create an information security plan that includes encryption. Consumers are advised to create strong passwords and update them frequently, and to closely monitor credit and bank statements each month.

The Otsego county health department will hold a free rabies clinic today at the Morris fire department.  The clinic will run from 6:00 to 8:00 PM, for dogs 7 cats at least 3 months of age.

The Sidney community band’s 12th annual Don Clayton memorial present their Trailside Music series every Wednesday evening in July & august, at the pavilion in Keith Clark Park.  The Walton community band will perform tonight from 6:30 to 8:00 PM.

Governor Cuomo and Legislative Leaders announced an agreement on a bill that to establish a medical marijuana program with provisions to ensure that it’s reserved only for patients with serious conditions and is dispensed and administered in a manner that protects public health and safety.

(Cuomo 6-20-14)

The legislation grants the Department of Health the authority to issue regulations to implement the program, as well as set a price. The Governor would also be allowed to suspend or terminate any provisions of the program based on the recommendations of the Commissioner or Superintendent. The bill would take effect immediately and sunset in 7 years.

State Senator Tom Libous announced that an agreement has been reached with the Governor to keep the Greater Binghamton Health Center Open.  This agreement commits funding to invest in community services, creates safeguards against potentially dangerous releases and includes a framework for long-term planning.

Chenango County Dairy Day is tomorrow in Norwich.  The day's activities include a 5K 'Milk Run' at 9am with the signup at 8:30, a parade at 10:30am, the ZooMobile from the Binghamton Zoo at Ross Park (https://www.facebook.com/binghamtonzoo), Face Painting, a Duck Derby, a Hay Bale Maze at the Chenango County Fair (https://www.facebook.com/pages/Chenango-County-Fair/318696156942)grounds.

New York legislators approved amending state law, to require agencies placing children in foster care, to first check whether prospective parents have done it before and provided poor or questionable care. The amendment, if signed by Governor Cuomo, would require all foster care agencies to check with the Office of Children and Family Services, to determine whether prospective parents ever had foster a child removed from their home, evaluate the reasons why and determine if the foster home should be reopened.

The South New Berlin Fire Department responded to a house fire on State Highway 23, at around 4:00 this morning. Fire fighters from Morris, New Berlin, Norwich & Mount Upton assisted South New Berlin firefighters at the scene.   Firefighters remained on the scene into the late morning hours, more details are expected to be released after investigators work to determine the cause of the fire.

Governor Cuomo kicked off his re-election bid yesterday, touting his record on taxes, the economy and social issues. Cuomo offered a list of accomplishments during his first term, citing an improving upstate economy, ending the gridlock at the state Capitol and pushing progressive ideas that he said makes New York a leader in the nation. Cuomo got a higher minimum wage and the lowest middle-class income taxes since 1953. He said will push for better rights for immigrants and public financing of campaigns, as well as expanding infrastructure projects if re-elected. Cuomo faces Westchester County Executive Rob Astorino in November.

State Assembly Speaker Sheldon Silver said he wants lawmakers to accelerate increases to the minimum wage and pass the Dream Act before adjourning their session next month. Silver said he doesn't want to wait until next year to pass the Dream Act, which would extend state financial aid to students in the country illegally. Silver also supports raising the $8-per-hour minimum age to $9 at the end of this year, with automatic increases tied to inflation. Currently, the wage is set to go to $9 at the end of 2015. Silver said he also supports implementing a broad public financing law for statewide campaigns

The State DEC has adopted a 10-year black bear management plan, which includes several proposed hunting rule changes, following thousands of public comments. DEC Commissioner Joe Martens said that the strategies outlined in the Plan seek to achieve and maintain bear population levels that are acceptable to the public while providing sustainable opportunity for New York’s big game hunters, and to also minimize human-bear conflicts. The final Black Bear Management Plan is available atwww.dec.ny.gov/animals/7215.html.

The Pathfinder Village Board of Directors announces plans to build a new $1.2 million community healthcare center in Edmeston.   Last month, the Pathfinder board approved building a 3,800 sq. ft. facility, named as the “DR. WILLIAM F. STRECK COMMUNITY HEALTH CLINIC” it will be located on State Route 80; it was named to recognize Dr. Streck's contributions   during his tenure with Bassett Healthcare and Pathfinder Village. Construction is expected to begin in May 2015. More information is available at pathfindervillage.org.

The 7th Annual Dan Elwood Memorial 5k Run/1 Mile Walk to benefit Hospice will be held at the General Clinton Park, Bainbridge, NY at 9:00 AM on Saturday. Day of race registration is $22 and will take place from 7:30 - 8:30 AM at General Clinton Park next to the pavilion. The 5k run will pass by the Elwood family home on Dingman Hill where Dan grew up. The 1-mile walk will take place on the new walking trail around Clinton Park. More information can be found at 967-8888 or 967-7373.

State Police announced the results of a preliminary investigation into a plane crash in the Town of Roxbury last Friday afternoon. The investigation determined that 45-year-old James Leavelle of Mentor Ohio was piloting the 1943 single propeller aircraft; he attempted to land on a private grass airfield due to approaching foul weather, Leavelle felt that his forward momentum was too great to stop within the length of the field, he attempted to become airborne again for a 2nd attempt, he clipped trees & a power line and crashed. Leavelle suffered a minor hairline fracture in one spinal disc in the neck; the plane was dismantled and removed for the investigation by the FAA & The NTSB.

Sidney village officials have given the go ahead for the construction of a skateboard park in Sidney. Ronnie Haag of the Sidney Area Youth Advocate program, explains:

(Ronnie Haag 5-13-14)

Haag said that the project was first discussed in 2008; they hope to have the park open for this summer.

A bill that would create a statewide registry of violent felony offenders has passed the Senate. “Brittany’s Law” would require violent convicted felons to register with the state’s Department of Criminal Justice Service, after being released from prison, it would be set up similar to the current sex offender registry. The bill is named after 12-year-old Brittany Passalacqua who was killed in 2009 by John Brown, who was on parole at the time after serving 2½ years for assaulting his infant daughter. The bill was sent to the Assembly for consideration.

The state political conventions start tomorrow in Westchester County and then continue the following week on Long Island.   Republicans Delegates will nominate Westchester County executive Rob Astorino for Governor and John Cahill for Attorney General. A week later, Democrats will gather in Suffolk County next week to re-nominate Governor Cuomo & Attorney General Eric Schneiderman.

Businesses owned by disabled veterans will get a share of state contracts under a bill signed Monday by Governor Cuomo. The Service Disabled Veteran-Owned Business Act requires the state to create rules and regulations to oversee a new program, that will set aside 6% of contracts to a business owned by 1 or more veterans with a disability while serving in any branch of the Military. The law was passed by the state Legislature in March.

State Comptroller Thomas DiNapoli announced the creation of an investigations division in his office. The announcement comes amid a number of investigations by several attorneys, following the expiration of Governor Cuomo’s Moreland Commission. Cuomo said that the Moreland Commission was formed after the legislature refused to act on ethics reforms last year, they agreed to a reform package in March, and the commission was deactivated. DiNapoli now has an agreement with State Attorney General Eric Schneiderman that allows the attorney general's office to conduct criminal investigations into alleged wrongdoing by state officials.

The General Clinton Canoe Regatta will bring back youth Wrestling at this years activities in General Clinton Park. Regatta Chairman John Harmon explains:

(John Harmon 5-8-14)

Harmon said that the matches would all be under a tent in the park, the wrestling matches were a very popular event at the Regatta in the 1980’s.

The State Senate Task Force on Heroin & Opiod addiction will hold another public hearing tomorrow, to gather more input on the growing problem. The task force will be in State Senator John Bonacic’s District:

(Bonacic 5-8-14)

Friday’s hearing will be held from 2:00 to 4:00 PM at the Sullivan County Government Center in Monticello, those who were unable to attend the Oneonta event are invited to testify at Friday’s event.

Lieutenant Governor Robert Duffy announced that he would not seek re-election with Governor Como this year. Duffy notified Cuomo Wednesday that he would not be on the ticket, he sited back & leg pain as being issues that were impinging on his ability to travel as much as the job requires, he also stated the desire to be closer to family in the Rochester area. No replacement by Governor Cuomo has been announced.

State Police arrested 34-year-old April Florance of Kirkwood, for DWI & Unlawful possession of Marijuana. Police reported that Florance drove the barracks to make a complaint; the desk Trooper detected a strong odor of alcohol on her breath.   Troopers determined that Florance also in possession of marijuana in the police station.   Florance refused to submit to a breath test, she was arraigned & was and remanded to the Broome County Jail pending future court action.

Federal auditors say New York should repay $60.8 million in Medicaid reimbursement, for unallowable costs for room and board for taking care of developmentally disabled people. The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services inspector general said repairs, maintenance, utilities, and property-related costs should have been excluded, in calculating Medicaid payment rates at state-operated residences. The audit recommends the state Health Department refund the $60.8 million federal share of those costs.

State lawmakers voted for tougher penalties for drivers who leave the scene of an accident. The state Senate voted in favor of legislation to impose up to seven years of prison on a motorist who flees the scene of an accident resulting in an injury. Currently, the crime carries a sentence of up to one year. The fines and potential prison sentence for leaving the scene of a fatal accident would also be increased. Similar legislation is pending in the state Assembly.

Chenango county sheriff’s department and State Police arrested 33-year-old Douglas Scherr of Budd Lake, New Jersey, at a residence in the Town of Afton. Scherr was a reported as a Fugitive from Justice out of the State of New Jersey on an active arrest warrant for Arson, he was arraigned in the Town of Norwich court and remanded to the Chenango County Jail without bail pending court action today.

Vendors are still needed for this year’s general Clinton canoe regatta in the park for the Memorial Day weekend. Regatta Chairman John Harmon explains:

(John Harmon 5-5-14)

Harmon said that there would be plenty of rides on the Midway, as well as musical acts performing throughout the weekend, the 3rd annual Hall of Fame Induction Dinner on Saturday afternoon and of plenty of canoe racing from Friday night through the 70-mile endurance races on Monday.

Jury selection is underway in the latest trial of former State Senate Majority Leader Joe Bruno. Bruno is accused of taking bribes from a business associate who also had dealings with the state, while Bruno headed up the State Senate.   Bruno was Acquitted of 5 charges & was found guilty of 2 others in his 2009 trial; the convictions were overturned on appeal.

Michael Kicinski of Earlville will not be on the Republican Primary ballot in the 22nd congressional district. Kicinski lost his spot because he did not have enough valid petition signatures from the district’s registered Republican residents, with several of the collected signatures being deemed invalid by the state Board of Elections. Assemblywoman Claudia Tenney and incumbent Richard Hanna will appear on the June 24th primary ballot.

Police agencies from across the state will head to Albany this week to pay tribute to those who have died in the line of duty. A ceremony will be held tomorrow at the New York State Law Enforcement Officers Memorial at the Empire State Plaza. Before the ceremony, there will be a church service for police officers that have died. That will be followed by a march to the Law Enforcement Memorial at the Plaza. The memorial is inscribed with the names of more than 1,300 police officers that have died in the line of duty across the state.

In 2012, the Village of Franklin was awarded funding through New York State Homes and Community Renewal’s New York Main Street program to rehabilitate buildings within the community’s historic business district. The target area for this program is comprised of the buildings between Maple Street and Water Street, along State Highway 357. The program provides grant funds to commercial building owners within the target area, $24,000 in grant funds remain available to building owners within this community, Applications will be accepted through today for eligible projects that can be completed no later than June 30, 2014.

The Otsego County Planning Department announced schedule changes at the Oneonta & Cooperstown Transfer Stations. The Oneonta transfer station will be open Monday through Fridays from 7:00 am to 3:00 pm, Saturdays 8:00 AM to noon. The Cooperstown Transfer station will be open Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays 7:00 am to 12:00 Noon and Saturday from 8:00 AM to noon. Saturday hours will change from Memorial Day though Labor Day & for Saturdays after Holidays, with the Hours from 8:00 AM to 2:00 PM at both locations. More information is available at 547-4225.

Motorists are advised that State Route 17 westbound between Mygatt Street and the Glenwood Avenue in Binghamton will be reduced to one lane of travel beginning at 8 a.m. today.  Crews will be placing the concrete deck on the bridge over the Prospect Connector Road. This portion of work is expected to be completed by 3 p.m., weather permitting.

The 63rd Annual “National Day Of Prayer” Rally will be held today, from 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM in the East Side Park in Downtown Norwich. The event is sponsored by Norwich Tea Party Patriots.

This Friday Night, the 10th annual Tri-Town relay For Life will be held at General Clinton Park in Bainbridge.  Helen Gregory of the American cancer Society told WCDO News about this year’s event:

(Helen Gregory 4-29-14)

The event runs Friday night through Saturday morning, this year’s goal is to raise $100,000 for the American cancer society.

The state Senate passed legislation to increase the criminal penalties of some methamphetamine-related crimes. The bill passed by a vote of 55 to 4, if enacted; it would toughen criminal penalties for possessing meth-making materials and for making meth. The same bill passed the senate last year, but failed to pass in the Assembly.

The State Senate passed legislation that would prohibit registered sex offenders from driving a school or passenger bus. Under the bill, the Department of Motor Vehicles would be barred from issuing, or renewing a commercial driver’s license, to operate a bus to people who are required to register as a sex offender. The bill has been sent to the Assembly.

New York environmental officials are looking for citizen scientists to help them assess water quality. The state DEC is recruiting volunteers to help with assessments of Lake Ontario and the Niagara, Genesee, Delaware, Hudson and Mohawk River watersheds. Data from the Water Assessments by Volunteer Evaluators project enhances the work of state scientists creating an inventory of water quality. Volunteer monitors visit stream sites once a year in the warmer months to collect samples. Training sessions are being held around upstate areas in May and June. More information is available at dec.ny.gov.

Severe Weather Awareness Week in New York State is being observed through May 3rd, in support of a national effort to strengthen preparation for the potential of emergencies caused by extreme weather events. New Yorkers should prepare to take appropriate steps before a severe weather event. There are three basic steps to preparedness, make a plan, prepare a kit with supplies and be informed.  For more information on personal preparedness in advance of severe weather, visit dhses.ny.gov (http://www.dhses.ny.gov/aware-prepare).  For more information on Severe Weather Awareness Week, including daily public information statements, visit nws.noaa.gov.

State Police, responded to a report of an Attempted Robbery at Otsego Auto Crushers in Davenport, the investigation lead to the arrest of 23 year old Johnathan Lynn of East Meredith for Attempted Robbery in the 3rd Degree & Criminally Possessing a Hypodermic Instrument.  Lynn was arraigned in the Town of Davenport Court on those charges and was remanded to the Delaware County Jail on $15,000 cash bail.  Further investigation revealed that Lynn was also accused of the Robberies at the Convenience Express in Oneonta on April 19th & the Oneonta Arby’s robbery April 24th.  Additional charges of 2 counts of 2nd degree Robbery are pending in the Town of Oneonta Court.

Oneonta Police arrested 53 year old Robert Donaldson of Delhi for 3rd degree Grand Larceny, 1st degree Perjury, & Fraudulent Insurance Practices.   The arrest was the result of a combined investigation by the City of Oneonta Police Department Detectives Bureau, New York State Insurance Fund Investigators and New York State Workers Compensation Board Office of the Fraud Inspector General.  Donaldson is accused of receiving benefits from the workers compensation board while being employed & for making false testimony on his wages.  Donaldson was arraigned in the City of Oneonta Court and remanded to the Otsego County Jail without bail, pending future court action.

State Senator Jim Seward is hosting the Joint Senate Task Force on Heroin and Opioid Addiction on today in Oneonta.  The forum is 1 of 12 statewide to solicit local input on the rise in use of heroin and other opioids in New York State and develop recommendations for treating and preventing addiction.  The public forum will take place today from 9:30 AM to 12:00 PM at the Hunt Union Ballroom on the campus of SUNY-Oneonta.

The Otsego County Department of Health reported that a calf has tested positive for rabies, in the town of Pittsfield.  Officials said that no one was bitten by the calf, but several people came into contact with the calf, and have started rabies treatments. The health department has set up a rabies clinic on Wednesday May 7th in Neawha Park

The Federal EPA has concluded that a draft report on the environmental impacts of the proposed Constitution Pipeline is “insufficient,” and that a potential option of locating the line along I- 88 has not been fully evaluated.  The EPA is calling on the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, the pipeline planners, the state DOT, the Federal Highway Administration and other agencies to meet to discuss the I-88 proposal, which does not have the necessary detailed environmental impact information.  Initial plans call for the pipeline to run along the I-88 corridor from Pennsylvania to Schoharie County with 4 “Taps” along the route, one of  those taps allow natural gas to come off the pipeline to the new Amphenol facility being built in Sidney.

Governor Cuomo said a state program designed to boost New York’s green energy industry has helped 64 businesses. The governor’s office said more than $2.2 million in job training grants have been awarded to the companies statewide. The grants are intended to pay for on-the-job training in renewable energy technology, home weatherization and other fields involving energy efficiency. More than $500,000 remains available. To apply go to nyserda.ny.gov

New York State’s private sector job count held steady at 7,539,300 in March, an all-time high for the month, according to the state Department of Labor. Over the 12-month period ending March 2014, the state’s private sector job count has risen by 108,200, or 1.5 percent. The state’s unemployment rate went up by 0.1% to 6.9% in March, due in part to the state’s growing labor force, which expanded by 22,900 between February and March, as more state residents had confidence about finding a job

The Bainbridge Chamber of Commerce announced that they will hold their annual induction General Clinton Regatta induction ceremony & dinner, on Saturday may 24th at the general Clinton Park in Bainbridge.  This years inductees are local contributors Ed Ray and Dave Price and racers Blaise St. Pierre, Gary Aprea, Jeff Kolka  & the late Willis Hackett.  Tickets are available online at canoeregatta.org, at the Bainbridge branch of NBT Bank or at Bob’s Diner in Bainbridge.

The Chenango County Sheriff's Department arrested 42 year old Christopher Turner of Preston on 2 counts of 1st degree Assault, 1st Degree Burglary, Aggravated Criminal Contempt, Criminal Possession of a Weapon, Criminal Mischief & Endangering the Welfare of a Child.  Turner is accused of unlawfully entering a residence and assaulting 2 residents, 1 of the victims had an active order of protection against Turner. Turner was found to have used a dangerous instrument during the assault. The unidentified victims were transported to local hospitals to be treated for their injuries; deputies said that there were 4 children in the residence during the incident, which also had active order of protections against Turner. Turner was arraigned in the Town of Preston Court and was remanded to the Chenango County Correctional Facility on $ 00,000 cash bail and is to reappear in court at a later date.

Chenango county sheriff’s department arrested 47 year old Jeffery Eaves of Earlville on charges of 2nd degree Assault, Aggravated Harassment against a Police Officer, Resisting Arrest, DWAI and several moving violations.  Eaves was stopped by a deputy who witnessed a moving violation in Earlville, Eaves  continued driving a short distance to his home, where  exited his truck, and attempted to flee on foot.  Eaves is also accused of assaulting the deputy, he was taken into custody, was arraigned in Earlville Court and was remanded to the corrections in lieu of $10,000 cash bail.  Eaves will reappear at a later date.

New York Gun Owners have until tomorrow to register their ‘assault rifles’ as part of the New York  SAFE Act.     those with a regulated firearm must register it with the state to keep it legal.  The State has a link from the governor’s homepage, to an interactive questionnaire to tell if a gun should be registered.  State Police remind gun owners that failure to register an assault weapon by the deadline is punishable by  forfeiture of the weapon, If it is “deemed to be unintentional,” a 30-day amnesty period will be extended to register it.

U.S. Senator Charles Schumer and Congressman Richard Hanna announced that 7 Southern Tier stream gauges would receive long-term funding. The gauges faced a shut-off deadline of October 1st,  due to a lack of federal funding.  The U.S. Geological Survey identified new long-term support for the gauges. Much is due to the fiscal year 2014 Omnibus appropriations bill, along with additional support from the state DEC. The Southern Tier gauges are on the Susquehanna River at Bainbridge, Windsor, Unadilla, Binghamton and Owego.

The lineup for Rock in the Park 2014 has been set up, featuring Norwich’s Kaitlyn  Jackson, Woodshed Prophets,  Chris Janson  & Daryle Singletary.  The concert will be held on Sunday, August 17th at General Clinton Park in Bainbridge, the Park will also feature 40 vendors/crafters, & Food vendors Tickets are on sale at all Ticketmaster locations, online at  ticketmaster.com,  All proceeds will benefit Chenango County Toys for Tots.

NYSEG is inspecting wooden transmission and distribution poles for decay and other damage, beginning in NYSEG’s Oneonta Division.   In addition to identifying poles in need of repair or replacement, NYSEG’s contractor will be treating some poles to increase their longevity. The preservatives used are approved by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, New York State Department of Environmental Conservation, and will be applied under the supervision of licensed applicators. Any poles infested with carpenter ants also may be treated with an approved insecticide.

The Otsego County Sheriff’s Department & DEA Agents arrested 53-year-old John Laing of Unadilla for criminal possession of marijuana and unlawfully growing of cannabis by an unlicensed person.  Laing is accused of having a marijuana growing operation at his residence, investigators confiscated over 10 pounds of marijuana, 95 marijuana plants, 54 cloned marijuana plants, $10,000 in growing equipment, and $3,100 in cash.  Laing was taken to the Otsego County Jail pending court action; 36-year-old Steven Carpenter of Guilford was also arrested for unlawful possession of marijuana.

About 2 dozen concerns are expected to apply to the state gaming commission, to get one of 4 upstate casinos to be built & operated, to help increase tourism revenue.  State senator John Bonacic comments:

(Bonacic 4-11-14)

Bonacic said that the 1 resort will be placed in each of the 3 regions, & the 4th license will be picked based on the best proposal.

The New York State Fair box office and online outlet will be open Saturday morning to sell tickets to the Tuesday, August 26 concert by Train & the Wallflowers at the State fair Grandstand. Ticket sales begin at 9:00 a.m. both at the box office, or at etix.com, or by phone at 1 (800) 514-3849, option 1.

The 5th Annual Norwich Tea Party rally will be held tomorrow in downtown Norwich.  Coordinator Gilda Ward said that several speakers would participate:

(Gilda Ward 4-11-14)

The event will be held from 11:00 AM to 2:00 PM in East Side Park in downtown Norwich, live music & refreshments will also be part of the event.

A Norwich teen is facing charges after she jumped out a window at the Norwich City Police Department.  17-year-old Cheyenne Davenport was charged with 2nd degree burglary, 2 counts of petty larceny and criminal possession of a controlled substance, after she allegedly entered a relative’s house and took medication and cash. 2 hours later, she jumped out the department’s window, Police found her hiding in a nearby house and also charged her with 2nd degree escape. Davenport was sent to the Chenango County jail on $2,500 bail.

12.6% of New York residents’ income went to state and local taxes in 2011, the highest rate in the nation, according to a report from the Tax Foundation.  Their annual report placed New York at the top of the list for the second straight year, though the total burden fell from 13.1% in 2010. The national average for 2011 was 9.8%.  State Lawmakers have lowered the State tax rates since 2011.

The Delaware, Ulster & Greene Sheriff’s Departments and State Police investigated vehicle thefts, & announced the arrest of 53-year-old Joel Yaro of Ulster Park for 3rd & 4th degree Grand Larceny.  Yaro is accused of   the theft of a vehicle from Hancock that was recovered in the Town of Kortright later that day, following the recovery of that vehicle; Deputies investigated the theft of a vehicle from the Town of Kortright, which was recovered by Greene County Sheriff’s Deputies the following day.  Yaro was arraigned in the Town of Hancock Court on the two Grand Larceny charges Wednesday; he was remanded to the Delaware County Correctional Facility on $10,000 cash bail pending further court action.

Tougher texting-while-driving penalties for teenage and new drivers were included in this year’s state budget agreement. Under the state’s new budget, drivers who are under 18, or have a probationary license, will see their driving rights suspended for 120 days on a first texting conviction and a year on the second one.  The governor has pushed for tougher distracted-driving penalties since taking office in 2011, when he and lawmakers changed the state’s texting-while-driving ban from a secondary to a primary offense. Last year, there were 55,130 texting-while-driving tickets issued in the state, up 82 percent from the previous year.

State attorney general Eric Schneiderman announced agreements with 10 repossession businesses to help limit the marketing of short-term loans using cars as collateral. With so-called title loans, the short-term borrowing by consumers with poor credit histories can carry high interest rates, making them difficult to pay off and easier to roll over for additional interest. At the end of the loan, borrowers may face balloon payments or loss of their cars.  More information is available at oag.state.ny.us.

The Broome County Sheriff’s department arrested 2 Chenango county residents, for allegedly using heroin in Otsiningo Park Saturday, following a complaint from a citizen.  21 year old Michael Verry of Greene was charged with 2 counts of Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance, & 1 count each of Obstructing Governmental Administration & Resisting Arrest, 24 year old Amber Halko of Oxford was charged with criminal possession of a controlled substance, and criminal possession of a Hypodermic instrument.  Police confiscated drug paraphernalia, several packages of heroin, hypodermic needles, & controlled prescription drugs, Verry was arraigned & was remanded to the Broome County Jail on bail, and Halko was released on an appearance ticket.

The Delaware County District Attorney's office announced the arrest of 40-year-old David Rogers of Sidney Center, for 1 count each of Forcible Touching & Endangering the welfare of a child.  Rogers is a Level 1 sex offender, he was arraigned in the Town of Sidney Court and sent to the Delaware County Correctional Facility in lieu of $5,000 cash bail & he will reappear in the Town of Sidney Court at a later date.  The Village of Sidney Police Department assisted in the investigation.

The Delaware County District Attorney’s office & the Delaware County Sheriff’s Department arrested 24 year old Timothy Nodine of Hobart for 3rd degree Burglary, 4th degree Grand Larceny, Criminal Possession of a Weapon, Criminal Sale of a Firearm & Endangering the Welfare of a Child. The arrest followed a 7-month investigation into the disappearance of property from a local estate.

The State Senate has passed legislation assisting disabled veterans who own businesses in New York State, State Senator John Bonacic comments:

(Bonacic)

Governor Cuomo had proposed similar legislation, it is expected that he would sign the Senate Bill into law if it reaches his desk.

State Assemblywoman Claudia Tenney of New Hartford announced today that she would mount a Republican primary challenge against incumbent Republican congressman Richard Hanna in the 22nd Congressional District.  Tenney joins Michael Kicinski, of Earlville, and Michael Vasquez, of Binghamton, Hanna has already won the endorsement (http://www.syracuse.com/news/index.ssf/2014/03/madison_county_gop_endorses_rep_richard_hanna_for_third_term.html) of all 7 county Republican committees in the 22nd district.

The Delaware County Community Services Board seeks proposals For Mental Health Department consolidation.  Interested parties are invited to submit proposals for the consolidation of the Adult Mental Health Clinic, Children and Family Services and Alcohol & Drug Abuse Services to be located at 1 rental location of at least 10,000 sq. feet.  Interested parties may contact Cynthia Heaney, at the Delaware County Mental Health Department at 865-6522 for proposal and submission requirements.

State police at Oneonta arrested 22-year-old Anthony Hill of Oneonta for 2nd degree harassment following a dispute at the Lantern Hill Trailer Park on State Route 23 in Oneonta.  Hill was arraigned in Town of Oneonta Court and released to re-appear at a later date.

The Chenango county sheriffs department arrested 56-year-old Warren Switzer of Sherburne for 2nd degree Harassment & Public Health Law violations.  Switzer was charged for allegedly possessing a controlled substance not in its original container, and for engaging in a physical domestic dispute in the Town of Sherburne.  Switzer was arraigned in the Town of Sherburne Court & was remanded to the Chenango County Jail on $500 cash bail.

The autopsy on 39-year-old Richard McKee of Windsor was performed at Wilson Hospital, the cause of death was listed as a heart attack caused by cold-water immersion.  State Police reported that McKee was walking his property when he entered onto a section of ice over open running water, the ice broke and he entered the water up to his chest.  McKee was able to exit the water, but became unresponsive while walking back to his vehicle; he later died at Wilson Hospital.

Delaware County Sheriff's Deputies investigated a 1-car accident on County Highway 18 in the Town of Delhi last Thursday.  22-YEAR-OLD Joshua Kaplan of Clifton Park was unconscious in the vehicle, he apparently suffered a medical crisis causing him to lose control & leave the roadway, where he struck an embankment. Kaplan was transported to O’Connor Hospital, & was then airlifted to Albany Medical Center for treatment for a skull fracture and brain injury.  20-year-old Andriana Senti of Port Crane was a passenger in Kaplan’s vehicle; she was not injured but was taken to O’Connor Hospital for evaluation. The investigation revealed that Kaplan had been physically assaulted by his roommate, 21-year-old Jonathan Lora of Middletown, earlier that evening, and the injuries Kaplan sustained led to the medical crisis while driving.  Deputies charged Lora with 2nd degree Assault; he was arraigned in the Town of Stamford Court and was released on recognizance pending further court action.

Tomorrow, Rotary District Governor Don Reese will be at the Sidney Fire Department on River Street, as the International Rotary organization collects fire turnout gear to donate to firefighters in Chile in South America. The Sidney Fire Department is donating 12 complete sets with helmets.

Governor Cuomo announced the start of business operations for the New York Green Bank, which will work to stimulate private sector financing and accelerate the transition to a cost-effective clean energy system. The New York Green Bank is seeking proposals from private sector lenders, investors and industry participants to facilitate the financing of clean-energy projects in the State.

The state Board of Regents voted to delay Common Core graduation requirements for five years, but a change to the state’s teacher-evaluation system was tabled until April.  The board adopted 18 changes to the state’s management of the Common Core. Now, the class of 2022—this year’s fourth-graders—will be the first to face the Common Core requirements for graduation, rather than the class of 2017—this year’s ninth-graders.

Smithville, Triangle, Greene, Oxford, and McDonough fire crews responded this morning to a house fire, that injured two occupants at 127 State Highway 220 in Smithville. A 71-year-old man and his 37-year-old grandson were living in the two-story home. The 71-year-old was airlifted to Upstate Medical in Syracuse for burns. The other victim was taken to Wilson Hospital for his injuries and then transferred to Upstate Medical. The severity of their injuries is unknown

State Police, arrested 20-year-old Amir Ebadullah-Aslamkhan of Vestal after the execution of search warrant led to the discovery marihuana, weapons & cash.  State Police charged Ebadullah-Aslamkhan with Criminal Possession of Marihuana; Criminal Possession of a Weapon, & Criminal Possession of a Weapon, police confiscated 13 pounds of marihuana; $35,000 in Cash, a loaded assault weapon; 2 shotguns, ammunition, 2 switchblades; as well as scales and packaging used in the sale of marihuana.  Ebadullah-Aslamkhan was arraigned in the Town of Vestal Court and remanded to the Broome County Jail without bail. The investigation is continuing and further arrests are anticipated.

New Yorkers may get 2 tax-rebate checks. Last year, the state Legislature and Governor Cuomo agreed to provide a $350 rebate check to middle-class families this fall, for families who have children under 18. Cuomo’s new proposal for a property-tax freeze would include another rebate check to homeowners in communities where local governments stay within the property tax cap, for households with incomes less than $500,000 a year.  Both rebates would come in this mail this fall.

The New York State Department of Taxation and Finance today kicked off the income tax season, new this year is that 85% of taxpayers can e-file their state returns for free. The Department is accepting e-filed income tax returns for the 2013 tax year through its Web site at tax.ny.gov starting today.  The filing deadline is April 15th again this year.

New York State received mixed grades in a national review of tobacco control measures. The American Lung Association gave New York two "A" ratings for smoke-free air and having a cigarette tax, but said the state failed in tobacco prevention and cessation coverage, and the legislature fails to sufficiently fund the state’s tobacco control program.  New York cut funding for the program by $2 million in 2013, Tobacco use is the #1 cause of death in the state.

The Bainbridge Chamber Of Commerce & Bainbridge Rotary will co-sponsor the 1st Annual Bruce Haak Memorial Rally at General Clinton Park.  Event Organizer Phil Canonaco explains:

(Phil Canonaco 1-24-14)

Canonaco said that the event is free on Sunday at General Clinton Park in Bainbridge, from 1:00 to 3:00 PM.

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.

Governor Cuomo today delivered his state of the state address to a joint session of the legislature in Albany, looking for another positive year of progress & unity:

(Cuomo 1-8-14)

Cuomo outlined his plans for building 100 new upstate bridges to replace ones damaged by recent storms, a medical marijuana program for cancer sufferers in 20 hospitals.  Stiffer penalties for repeat drunk drivers & teens who text while driving & setting up an agricultural summit and cutting taxes to 0% for upstate manufacturers.  Cuomo will deliver the state budget proposal to a joint session of the legislature on January 21st in Albany.

State police arrested 48-year-old Robert Braun of Oneonta for 2nd degree criminal contempt.  The arrest resulted from a vehicle and traffic law stop on State Route 205 in Oneonta, it was determined that the front seat passenger held an active order of protection against Braun.   Braun was arraigned in the Town of Oneonta Court and released; he faces court action on February 6th.

A law passed last year allowing those with New York hunting licenses, to kill wild boars is proving ineffective at curtailing their numbers, so Officials from the U.S. Department Of Agriculture’s Wildfire Services Unit will be attempting to kill off the feral swine by chopper.  The boars have been migrating into the Tri County region over the last few years, carrying 37 different parasites, as well as killing of livestock, pets and in some cases, attacking humans.  The chopper units will operate January 28th to February 7th.

State police arrested 39-year-old Mason Hamilton of Cincinnatus for aggravated unlicensed operation of a vehicle.  The arrest occurred after a traffic stop for an expired inspection on State Route 206, a check of Hamilton’s driver’s license revealed that he had 12 suspensions.    Hamilton was arraigned and remanded to the Broome County Jail on $1,000 cash bail.

A Sherburne man was arrested on 110 counts of animal cruelty against cows.  State police charged 48-year-old Michael Thompson with torturing, injuring and not feeding an animal at his farm on Casey Cheese Factory road in the town of Columbus. Several deceased and sick cows were found on the farm.  Thompson was arraigned in Columbus town court and sent to the Chenango County Jail on $5,000 bail.

18-year-old William Thomas of Oneonta has been arrested, for allegedly raping a 14-year-old girl in Wilber Park in November.   Thomas was charged with 2nd degree rape, he faces court action on February 10th in Oneonta city court.

Advocates for New York’s poor are calling for a minimum wage of at least $10 to address what they call a state crisis of inequality. Rallying at the Capitol in Albany today, they said the state’s richest 1 percent now account for 35 percent of all income. The Legislature and Gov Cuomo last year raised the minimum wage from $7.25 to $8 this year, $8.75 next year and $9 by 2016. Assembly and Senate Democrats have proposed accelerating the increase and adding inflation adjustments