WCDO Radio News

Lieutenant Governor Kathy Hochul toured the flood-damaged areas of the village of Sidney today with village officials, regarding the plans for the River street area residents and the area itself. Hochul commented about the tour to WCDO News:

(Kathy Hochul 12-2-15)

Mayor Andy Matviak said that it is important for high-level state officials to see where they are at with their plans and maybe get the process moving along at a quicker pace:

(Andy Matviak 12-2-15)

Matviak said that they are still working with FEMA, and they have also spoke individually with most of the homeowners in the River Street area about buy-outs, elevations and the possible development in the Plankenhorn Road area.

Governor Cuomo today announced that during the past year, 43 new farm breweries have opened their doors in New York State, bringing the state's total number of operational farm breweries to 106. Additionally, the Governor's Farm Brewery law, which created a new license for craft brewers that use New York grown ingredients and included an exemption on brand label registration fees for small brewers, has saved brewers nearly $1 million to date. Aside from the 106 farm breweries, New York is now home to 133 micro-breweries, up from just 40 in 2011, and 39 restaurant breweries, up from 10 in 2011. Additionally, eight farm breweries have opened off-site branch stores, a practice which was also authorized under the Governor's law.

Governor Cuomo announced a 60% decrease in alcohol-related traffic fatalities since Governor Mario Cuomo raised New York State's drinking age to 21 exactly 30 years ago. According to the federal Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, youth who drink alcohol are more likely to experience alcohol-related car crashes and other unintentional injuries; school, social, legal, and physical problems; abuse of other drugs; and death from alcohol poisoning.

The Trial of Former State Senate Majority leader Dean Skelos continues in a Manhattan Federal Courtroom. Skelos is accused of using his political influence to get his son Adam No-Show jobs with politically connected firms in exchange for political favors. Skelos's trial follows the recent conviction of former deputy Majority leader Tom Libous of Binghamton and former Assembly Speaker Sheldon Silver on similar corruption charges.

Oneonta Police & State Police arrested 27-year-old Jason Cousins from Unadilla for Burglary, Attempted Robbery, Criminal Possession of a Weapon, Assault, Criminal Possession of Stolen Property & Menacing, following a home invasion in Oneonta. Cousins is accused of displaying a stolen handgun, taking property & striking & injuring 1 of the victims. Cousins fled the scene and was apprehended and taken into custody, the investigation is continuing.

State police announced that they would host a community-policing meeting on Wednesday December 2nd at the Stamford Fire Department from 7:00 to 9:00 PM. Police will discuss law enforcement operations, & the mission priorities of the state police, the school liaison program, traffic safety plus community & police interaction. There will be a question & answer period.

Otsego County will hold a free rabies clinic today at the Susquehanna animal shelter on State Route 28 in Cooperstown, for dogs, cats & ferrets. The clinic will be held from 4:00 to 6:00 PM.

Former Assembly Speaker Sheldon Silver was convicted on Monday as a federal jury in Manhattan found Silver guilty of all 7 counts he faced for fraud, extortion and money laundering. The conviction comes as Silver's counterpart in the Senate, former Majority Leader Dean Skelos, faces his own corruption trial in the same federal court. Both men resigned their leadership posts but continued to work as lawmakers; Silver automatically loses his seat as a result of his conviction.

In recognition of World AIDS Day, Governor Andrew Cuomo today made a series of announcements regarding the next phase of New York State’s Plan to End the AIDS Epidemic in the State. The Governor is committing $200 million in new funding toward HIV/AIDS efforts, in addition to the $2.5 billion in public funding that the state currently directs toward addressing the disease. He is also calling on the federal government to increase its contribution nationwide for housing assistance for people living with HIV and AIDS.

State Comptroller Tom DiNapoli announced today his office approved 215 contracts valued at $109 million and approved 1.7 million payments worth $5.8 billion in October. His office also rejected 45 contracts and related transactions valued at $31 million and more than 6,900 payments valued at $3.6 million due to fraud, waste or other improprieties. DiNapoli’s office has approved approximately 16,200 contracts valued at $142 billion and approved 25.5 million payments worth $107 billion. His office has also rejected 1,660 contracts and related transactions valued at $4.4 billion and 33,100 payments valued at $127.5 million through October.

Firefighters from Masonville, Sidney, Trout Creek have been called to a fire at Pine Hill Road & State Route 8 in Masonville. WCDO News will have more details as they become available.

Governor Cuomo announced that the State is launching new security measures at Planned Parenthood sites across New York State. The State Police began increase patrols at Planned Parenthood locations across the state on Friday and on Monday will visit the more than 60 Planned Parenthood clinics and locations throughout New York to assist with security and emergency planning measures.

Jury deliberations were underway in a Manhattan Federal Courtroom this morning, in the trial of former Assembly Speaker Sheldon Silver. Silver's trial is into the 5th week with the jury set to resume deliberations today. Silver was elected speaker of the New York State Assembly in 1994, he was forced to step down as speaker after his arrest in January on federal corruption charges.

Governor Cuomo announced that Patricia Groeber (Pronounced "Grober") has been appointed First Deputy Superintendent of the New York State Police, which places her second in command of the 4,800 member Division. The appointment, made by Superintendent Joseph D'Amico, marks the first time that a female member has been appointed to the position in the 98-year history of the State Police. First Deputy Superintendent Groeber will oversee the daily operations of all aspects of the Division, including Field Command, Administration, Employee Relations and Internal Affairs. She first joined the State Police on September 22, 1986

New York State allocated $1 million in the current state budget for the 2nd round of the New Farmers Grant Fund, to support beginning farmers. farms and farmers need to meet certain criteria, including having a farm operation of 150 acres or less, which produces an agricultural product as defined by the Guidelines; The 2015 Guidelines and Application for the New York State New Farmers Grant Fund are available at esd.ny.gov. More information is available at 746-8595.

State Police arrested 26-year-old Bryan Eichhorn of Laurens, for Felony DWI, driving without a locking device & other traffic violations. This arrest occurred after troopers observed Eichhorn failing to stop at a stop sign & speeding on Otsego County Route 10 in the Town of Laurens. Eichorn has a conviction for DWI within the last ten years; he was issued tickets returnable to the Town of Laurens court on December 7th.

Tomorrow is Election day, with quite a few interesting races in an "Off Year” In the State Senate race in the 52nd district; Republican Fred Akshar & Democrat Barbara Fiala are running to fill the seat left vacated by the conviction of long time Senator Tom Libous.
Delaware County will have a Family Court Judge for the first time; the candidates are Democrat Gary Rosa & Republican Porter Kirkwood. In Chenango County, for District Attorney, incumbent Joseph McBride faces Zachary Wentworth. Several Town Races will be decided by voters Tuesday, in the Town of Sidney; Eric Wilson, Jeannette Hinckley, Loddie Marsh & incumbent Bill Heath are running for 2 seats on town board
In the Town of Franklin, for town Supervisor, incumbent Jeffery Taggart faces Epifanio Bevilacqua & 3 people are running for 2 seats on the town board: Dwight Bruno, Donald Hebbard and Donald Smith. In the Town of Harpersfield for Town Supervisor, incumbent Jim Eisel faces a challenge from Edward Pick Jr. Eisel is chairman of the Delaware County Board of Supervisors; a Pick Victory would mean a change at the top of Delaware County Government. In the race for Town of Guilford Supervisor, George Seneck faces Jeffrey MacCormack & for Town of Oxford Supervisor Frederick Lanfear faces Lawrence Wilcox.

Governor Cuomo announced the results of Child Passenger Safety Week seat check events, during which 88% of the 931 seats inspected were found to be improperly installed, 112 had been installed correctly. Child safety seat checks are coordinated by the New York State Governor’s Traffic Safety Committee in cooperation with state and local law enforcement and community safety partners year round, either by appointment or at events conducted throughout the year. Future scheduled events can be found at safeny.ny.gov.

The Trial of former State Assembly Speaker Sheldon Silver begins today in a Manhattan federal courtroom. Silver is accused of taking $4 million in bribes and kickbacks disguised as legal fees from 2 separate law firms, while serving as Assembly Speaker. . Questioning of potential jurors is scheduled to begin on Monday. The Trial of Former State Senate Leader Dean Skelos will start later this month.

Local leaders will hold a New York State Citizen Preparedness Corps Training Program in Sidney Today at 6:00PM at the Sidney High School Auditorium. The program provides citizens with the tools and resources to prepare for emergencies and disasters. Each family that attends will receive a NYS Disaster Preparedness Backpack containing numerous essential items. This event is open to those who pre-registered; more information is available at 721-8751.

The New York City DEP announced operations at the Cannonsville Reservoir have returned to normal. On Monday, the DEP stated it had resumed downstream releases under the Flexible Management Program on August 5th. It is no longer diverting drinking water from the reservoir and is relying on the Pepaction and Neversink reservoirs to balance storage. A preliminary investigation indicated that drilling in the reservoir had released ground water under natural pressure and caused an upward flow of water and sediment into the West Branch Delaware River.

Both the leader of the State Senate and Speaker of the Assembly have been charged with crimes, but even if they are convicted of federal corruption charges, both Dean Skelos and Sheldon Silver will still be eligible to receive their state pensions. This past spring, both the Senate and the Assembly passed bills that would revoke pension for elected officials convicted of a felony but they could not agree on the wording at this time. The Assembly wanted only elected officials to lose their pensions but the Senate wanted all state employees who were convicted of a felony to lose their pensions.

The results are in for the 2015 Common Core tests. The state Department of Education released the numbers for the math and English language arts tests that were given to students in grades three through eight. Scores for math went up slightly since 2013. The percentage of students who scored at the proficient level was 38 percent. That's a 7 point increase over 2 years. While the scores do not count towards the students' grades, they are factored into teacher evaluations.

A new Quinnipiac University poll has Governor Cuomo's approval rating to 44%, with 42% disapproval. A poll in March had the governor at 50% approval & 39% disapproval. 45% of those polled think all state lawmakers should be voted out of office.

Top level new York state leaders have been frequently arrested for a variety of crimes over the last several years, the most recent being Sheldon Silver & Dean Skelos resigning from leadership posts in the state legislature. Area Assemblyman Cliff crouch said that lawmakers have been getting ethics training over the last few years.

(Crouch 6-3-15)

Crouch said that he believes that new leaders Carl Heastie & John Flanagan will do a fine job & will be scrutinized intensely. Crouch said that the spate of arrests of top-level state leaders since he’s been in Albany shows the need for term limits in all leadership positions, including in committee chairmanships..

State Police arrested 66-year-old Christine Welborn of Norwich, for Aggravated Driving While Intoxicated with a B.A.C. of .19%. The arrest occurred after a traffic stop for failing to keep right on State Route 206 in the Town of Bainbridge. Welborn was issued tickets returnable to the Town of Bainbridge Court on June 11th.

Governor Cuomo announced that New York State has extended the ban on residential brush burning until May 21 due to continued dry conditions across the state. the burn ban also prohibits outdoor fires, such as campfires and recreational fires, and open fires used for cooking. This year, 110 fires have already burned nearly 3,600 acres.

19-year-old Joseph Mueller of Delhi suffered severe burns last night, hen his vehicle went into a propane tank outside the Delhi American Legion hall. The tank exploded, and firefighters from several area companies responded Mueller was taken to the burn unit at Upstate Medical Hospital in Syracuse. The crash happened at about 8:30 last night, about 30 people successfully evacuated the Legion hall, the Hall & a pavilion had minor damage, 3 store units were destroyed.

State Police at Oneonta arrested 43-year-old James Henderson of Franklin for Criminal Obstruction of Breathing or Blood Circulation, Unlawful Imprisonment, Criminal Mischief and Harassment. Troopers responded to a Delaware County 911 report of a dispute at a residence on Rod & Gun Club Road in the Town of Franklin. An investigation determined that during a physical dispute with his girlfriend he grabbed her by the neck, kept her from using the telephone to call police and would not let her leave. Henderson was arraigned in the Town of Davenport Court and remanded to the Delaware County Jail on $2,500 cash bail or $5,000 property bond pending a court date for the Town of Franklin is on May 28th.

Dean Skelos resigned as State Senator Majority leader & State senator John Flanagan of Long Island was elected as the new Senate Majority leader, over Syracuse area State Senator John DeFrancisco, by the senate republican caucus. Area state Senator John Bonacic described how the causes went:

(Bonacic 5-14-15)

Skelos & his son face a number of charges of corruption following a federal investigation that also brought down former Assembly Speaker Sheldon Silver earlier this year. Both Skelos & Silver refused to resign from their seats in the respective houses.

Otsego County has received a federal grant through the New York State Homes & Community Renewal to replace dilapidated owner-occupied mobile homes with new, energy-efficient manufactured homes. General eligibility is based on gross household income at or below 80% of the area median, ownership in the name of the applicant of the property where the existing mobile home is located, and poor condition of the home. Mobile homes on rented lots or in parks are not eligible. Interested families are asked to call Otsego Rural Housing Assistance at 286-7244.

Chenango County Fire officials reported a Barn fire at around 1:00 PM this afternoon. The barn was located at 2065 state route 12 in the town of Greene; firefighters from Coventry and Brisben have also been called in. WCDO will have more details as they become available.

In 1984, New York State became the 1st State to pass legislation requiring drivers and front-seat passengers to use seat belts. State officials reported that thousands of lives a year have been saved by seat belts, including 467 in 2012 and 446 in 2013. Tomorrow, representatives from the Governor’s Traffic Safety Committee will be hosting an event regarding the latest "Click it or Ticket - Border to Border” enforcement mobilization, to enforce seat belt laws in the Southern Tier of New York & the Northern Tier of Pennsylvania. The event will be held at 11:00 AM at Broome Gateway Rest Area on Interstate 81 in Kirkwood.

State Police are currently looking for 2 teenaged sisters from Binghamton, who have been missing since April 27th, they were last seen at Susquehanna Valley School waiting to get on the school bus that afternoon. Ky-Lea Fortner is a 15 year old, white female, 5’ 6” tall and thin build, with medium red hair, blue eyes and a lip piercing, she was wearing a white shirt, army pants and gray boots. Shaeleen Fortner is a 13-year-old white female, who is about 5’ 2” and thin build, with short dark brown hair and brown eyes, she was last seen wearing a black tank top, black leggings and converse sneakers. Any one with information should contact the State Police at 775-1241.

State DEC Officials are reminding area residents that the Burn Ban remains in effect through May 16th. The dry conditions along with the recent heat have led to a series of brush & grass fires across the Catskills. The regulations regarding open burning are available at DEC.NY.Gov.

State Senate majority Leader Dean Skelos of Long Island is expected to step down as leader of the state senate today, following his arrest on federal corruption charges, along with his son Adam. Skelos is expected to hold on to his seat in the state senate, just like former Assembly Speaker Sheldon Silver did earlier this year, after he was brought up on federal corruption charges. State Senator John DeFrancisco of Syracuse claims to have enough support to take over; as Senate majority leader should Skelos step down.

State Department of Health is reminding New Yorkers to take the necessary precautions to protect themselves against rabies exposure from stray and wild animals, like bats, which may find their way into people’s homes. If a bat is found inside the home, do not try to remove it by opening doors or windows; they should attempt to catch it safely using Doha’s guidelines. Once caught, individuals should contact their local health department so that the bat can be tested for rabies at the Rabies Laboratory in Albany. The Department has complied a listing of statewide free rabies clinics at health.ny.gov.

State Police responded to a Delaware County 911 report of a vehicle in the Delaware River, just off Harvard Road in the Town of Hancock. Troopers located a 2000 Jeep Grand Cherokee, with a New Jersey registration, approximately 50 feet into the river and half submerged in the water. Troopers found a deceased occupant, identified as 37 year old Stephen Maikisch of Somerset, New Jersey. Troopers reported that Maikisch exited State Route 17 at Exit 90 at a high rate of speed, drove through a t-intersection at the end of the ramp, crossed Harvard Road striking a guide rail and several trees. The Jeep traveled about 200 feet from the road before it came to rest in the river. Police said that a toxicology screening would be conducted and the results are pending.

Governor Cuomo honored 27 fallen law enforcement officers from agencies across New York State, including officers who died last year in the line of duty. The names of the 27 officers honored today have been inscribed on the Police Officers' Memorial located on the Empire State Plaza in Albany. Among those added to the memorial were State Trooper Christopher Skinner of Troop C, who was struck and killed by a hit-and-run driver on I-81 on May 29th, and Johnson City Police Officer David Smith, who was ambushed while responding to a disturbance call on March 31. The memorial's complete Roll of Honor is posted at criminaljustice.ny.gov.

State Senate Majority Leader Dean Skelos refused to step down from his leadership position yesterday, despite his arrest on charges of bribery & extortion following a federal investigation. Former Assembly speaker Sheldon Silver resigned his leadership position in January after being arrested for similar offenses, he did not resign from his state assembly seat and remains free on bail.

The State Assembly looks to wrap up the legislative session in the coming weeks; on the agenda is the annual call by the Governor & assembly leadership to raise the minimum wage, as well as the farm labor bill. Area Assemblyman Cliff Crouch said that temporary Migrant labor is hired for the harvesting season, and they should remain exempt from state labor laws do to the different environment for work on farms:

(Crouch 5-6-15)

Crouch has served on the Assembly Farm committee during his tenure and is also the only former farmer serving in the state Assembly.

State Senator Jim Seward honored Patricia Kennedy of Oneonta as the 2015 Senate "Woman of Distinction" from the 51st senate district at the 18th annual senate Women of Distinction ceremony at the Capitol. Kennedy serves as the CEO at Springbrook, which serves over 850 people with developmental disabilities, & employs more than 1,200 individuals.

State Police at Sidney arrested former Afton Resident 26-year-old Kody Proffitt of Palm Coast, Florida for 3rd degree Burglary. The arrest followed an incident early Thursday morning in the Town of Afton, when Proffitt allegedly forced his way into a residence on Cathy Lane. Proffitt was arraigned in the Town of Afton Court and remanded to the Chenango County Jail in lieu of $75,000 cash bail pending court action in the Town of Afton Court at a later date.

Federal Prosecutors have added more charges against former Assembly Speaker Sheldon Silver Thursday, claiming that he illegally did favors for an investor; the indictment said Silver did not pay a fee to the adviser for access to the high-yield private instruments and did not disclose to the adviser the source of the funds. Silver has been free on bail since his arrest earlier this year, on charges that he exploited his power in Albany to collect $4 million in kickbacks, he resigned as Speaker but still hold his seat in the assembly representing his lower Manhattan district.

State Police at Deposit arrested 24-year-old Dylan Borne of Johnson City, for 2nd degree Burglary & Criminal Sexual Act. The arrest occurred after Troopers responded to a complaint in the Town of Windsor where Borne allegedly entered a residence without permission & committed a criminal sexual act. Borne was arraigned in the Town of Windsor Court and remanded to the Broome County Jail without bail.

Delaware County Sheriff's Investigators arrested and charged a Hancock area Sex Offender with a felony violation the New York State Sex Offender Registration Act. 50 year old James Blackham was charged with failing to submit an updated photograph to the Sex Offender Registry within 20 days of his registration anniversary. Blackham is a Level 1 Sex Offender, Blackham was issued an Appearance Ticket to appear in the Town of Delhi Court on April 7 to answer the charge.

The New York State Department of Labor today released preliminary local area unemployment rates for February 2015. Rates are calculated following procedures prescribed by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. The state’s unemployment rate relies in part on the results of the Current Population Survey, which contacts approximately 3,100 households in New York State each month. The State’s seasonally adjusted unemployment rate remained unchanged at 5.8% in February 2015, Locally, chenango's rate was ar 6.9%, Delaware countyu's rate was at 7.3% & Otwsego county's rte was at 6.8% in february.

State Lawmakers are wrapping up work on budget bills in order to get the budget passed by the midnight deadline tonight. Area State Senator John Bonacic said that there were 2 items of interest that he was happy to see get funding:

(Bonacic 3-31-15)

The State Budget spending was 142 billion dollars; it included increased state aid to school districts and the ethics reform package that Governor Cuomo pushed for following the arrest of former Assembly Speaker Sheldon Silver in February on federal corruption charges.

Law Enforcement officials attended the Funeral services this morning for State Trooper Glen Woods, who passed away due to natural causes last week. the 45 year old trooper worked for Troop C at the Endwell barracks, Donations can be made to the “Glen Woods Family Scholarship Fund” at NBT Bank of Vestal.

The Attorneys General of New York, Oregon, Minnesota, Missouri and Texas filed lawsuits against Orbital Publishing Group, Inc. and a ring of interrelated New York and Oregon companies for mailing millions of unauthorized and allegedly misleading magazine and newspaper subscription notices to consumers nationwide. The solicitations were sent without the permission of the publishers and stated that consumers were receiving “one of the lowest available rates,” when, in fact, they were being charged, in some cases, more than double the publication price. The companies then pocketed the difference. New yoork residents who were a victim of a magazine or newspaper subscription scam, can file a complaint with the Attorney General’s Office at 1-800-771-7755.

State Budget Conference Committees ideally need to get their worked wrapped up this week, if lawmakers & the governor want the annual spending plan enacted on time. Area assemblyman Cliff Crouch Comments:

(Crouch 3-25-15)

Governor Cuomo has tied ethics reforms for lawmakers to the budget this year, the assembly leadership is going along with the Governors reforms, the State Senate leadership might also agree in the coming days. The governor made the reforms his top priority following the arrest in February of then-Assembly Speaker Sheldon Silver on federal corruption charges.

A “Protect Our Schools” demonstration will be held in Oneonta Tomorrow afternoon as part of a campaign by parents & teachers regarding state mandates on schools, excessive testing of students and the possible closing of schools or consolidating school districts. Kjersti Van Slyke-Briggs is an area parent that co-founded the "Oneonta Area for Public Education" group, she is one of the co-organizers of Thursday’s event in Oneonta & she told WCDO News that there are a list of concerns parents have in addition to the controversial common core curriculum:

(Kjersti Van Slyke Briggs 3-23-15)

Area schoolteacher Michelle Decker said that tying students test scores, with a high failing grade of 85, to teacher effectiveness is not a good way to evaluate teachers:

(Michelle Decker 3-23-15)

The demonstration will begin at 4:30 Thursday at the former Center Street School In Oneonta, more information is available at NYSAPE.org.

The State Assembly passed legislation to firm up laws regarding a women’s right to access health care regarding reproduction issues, Assembly Speaker Carl Heastie comments:

(Heastie 3-25-15)

The bill moves onto the State Senate for consideration, similar bills have failed to gather support in the State Senate in previous sessions.

Governor Cuomo today announced that nearly 300 restaurants across the state have taken the Pride of New York Pledge, almost tripling the number of restaurants actively supporting New York State agricultural products and beverages since last year. The Pledge is part of the Governor’s Taste NY initiative and was created to increase the sourcing, marketing and education of New York State grown and made products. More information including a list of participants is available at governor.ny.gov.

State Police at Norwich arrested 21 year old Lindsey McGehee of McDonough for 2nd degree Assault & Endangering the Welfare of a Child. McGehee is accused of causing serious physical injury to a 14 month old child on March 5th at a residence in Smithville. McGehee was arraigned in the Town of Oxford Court and remanded to the Chenango County Jail on $5,000 cash bail or a $10,000 property bond, pending court action at a later date.

State Police reposnded to FAHS Construction Group on Pierce Creek Road, in the Town of Binghamton, for the report of an industrial accident Tuesday. Troopers located an employee who was deceased, the investigation revealed that the victim was backing an excavator out of a building when the accident occurred. The victim has been identified as 42 year old Eric Willes of Nineveh, The results from an autopsy performed at Wilson Hospital have not been released, the investigation is continuing.

Sidney village police, state police K-9 unit and the Bomb Disposal unit responded to a reported sighting of 2 suspicious packages in the new Amphenol facility today in Sidney.   Police determined that what appeared to be a bomb was tool made by an employee to assist in his work, and there was never any thereat to employees or the facility.   Amphenol employees who were evacuated earlier, were allowed to re-enter the facility at around 11:30 this morning.

Governor Cuomo & State Assembly Speaker Carl Heastie have reached an agreement on an Ethics reform package. Cuomo pushed the legisalture for Ethics reform first, even if it meant that a state budget would not be passed by the Aprils 1st deadline for the first time on his watch:

(CUOMO 3-18-15)

Cuomo went to the Assembly leadership with the proposal first, and he is expected to meet with Senate leadership shortly. The Governor made Ethics reform his top priority following the latest arrest of yet another powerful state lawmaker, former Assembly Speaker Sheldon Silver, who is currently facing Federal Corruption charges.

Assembly Members, Parents, & Educators announced the “Common Core Parental Refusal Act” in Albany this week. Area Assemblyman Pete Lopez explains:

(Lopez 3-18-15)

The bill would ensure that schools can notify parents they can refuse to have their children in grades 3-8 participate in Common Core standardized tests, protects schools from having state aid withheld & ensures that students are not punished for their lack of participation in those tests, and it would set-aside alternate studies, Last year, parents of 60,000 students refused New York State Common Core tests.

The State DMV announced the availability of custom license plates supporting New York baseball teams. New Yorkers can select custom plates for the Brooklyn Dodgers, Long Island Ducks, New York Mets, New York Yankees and a special license plate commemorating the New York Yankees’ 2009 World Series victory, as well as a ‘Birthplace of Baseball’ license plate honoring Cooperstown, custom plates can be ordered at dmv.ny.gov or by calling 1-518-402-4838 from 8:00 a.m.-4 p.m., Monday through Friday.

Governor Cuomo today announced that New York State has been awarded $8.1 million in federal funds to combat the heroin epidemic. The funding will look to Reduce prescription drug misuse and abuse in the 12- to 25-year-olds, reduce heroin use and heroin/prescription opioid overdose deaths among the 12- to 25-year-olds, Increase public awareness through statewide and community media campaigns, & to Increase the number of anti-overdose medication Narcan trainings offered to parents, family members, and anyone living with a heroin/prescription opioid addict.

On Thursday, the State Police CNET team ended a 2 month investigation into the sale and possession of heroin and methamphetamine, with the arrests of 44 year old Terry McNerney of Kirkwood, who was charged with Unlawful Manufacturing Methamphetamine, Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance, 2 counts of Criminal Using Drug Paraphernalia. Also arrested was 22-year-old Trent Kennerup of Windsor, who was charged with Loitering. Both were arraigned & were remanded to the Broome County jail. Police seized heroin & materials used to manufacture Methamphetamines.

State Police & the Broome County Sheriff’s Office arrested 30 year old Joseph Rose of Endicott for 2 counts of 2nd degree Robbery, following the investigation into armed robberies at Manley’s Gas Station & Lupo’s Restaurant, both in Endwell. Rose was arraigned in the Town of Union Court and remanded to the Broome County Jail with no bail set at this time.

The State Senate has passed a series of bills designed to protect the public from sex offenders. State senator Jim Seward contributed a bill to that package:

(Seward 2-27-15)

The package of bills will head to the State Assembly for consideration.

State Assembly Minority Republicans are calling on Governor Cuomo to release state aid figures to school district, so that they can get their budget numbers together in a timely fashion. Area assemblyman Cliff Crouch Comments:

(Crouch 2-27-15)

Assemblyman Pete Lopez also commented:

(Lopez 2-27-15)

Governor Cuomo has said that he is willing to let the budget get enacted passed the April 1st deadline in favor of getting an ethics reform package passed first, following the recent arrest of former Assembly Speaker Sheldon Silver.

The state Assembly passed The DREAM Act bill Thursday to financial aid to immigrants living in the country illegally. New State Assembly Speaker Carl Heastie of the Bronx said that the DREAM Act is one of his top legislative priorities:

(Carl Heastie 2-27-15)

This is the 3rd consecutive year the Assembly passed the DREAM Act, it has failed to gather enough support in the State senate for it to advance to the governor’s desk, governor Cuomo has already allocated funding in his executive budget proposal for the DREAM Act this session.

Former Assembly Speaker Sheldon Silver faces arraignment on bribery charges today, in federal court. Silver was arrested in January by the FBI on corruption charges for collecting nearly $4 million from law firms for political favors. Silver resigned as speaker after his arrest, he retains the assembly seat he has held for nearly 40 years.

Commerce Chenango will have their next business after hours event today, from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM. The event will be held at RAPID REPRODUCTION at 4511 State Highway 12 in Oxford.

A Grand Jury has officially indicted former Speaker Sheldon Silver. Silver was arrested on January 22 on 5 federal corruption charges, for allegedly using his position to aquire millions of dollars. Silver resigned as Speaker of the Assembly after 21 years at that position, he has been in the Assembly since the mid 70's, he has NOT residgned from his seat in the state assembly.

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

(Lopez 2-17-15)

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

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

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

The state assembly is inching back to normal activity following the recent arrest of Former Speaker Sheldon Silver, and the appointment of Carl Heastie of the Bronx as the new Speaker. Area Assemblyman Pete Lopez said that Silver’s stranglehold on the leadership of the Assembly, and his arrest for alleged corruption shows the need for reform in the state legislature:

(Pete Lopez 2-9-15)

Governor Cuomo stated last week that he will not sign a state budget plan unless a series of ethics reforms are enacted by the legislature, to stop the wave of criminal activities by several recent legislative leaders.

Nearly 230 new Troopers will be honored Tuesday Morning at Graduation Exercises at the Empire State Plaza in Albany, for completing the 202nd session of State Police Academy. Trooper Jin Hong Park of Nyack will be assigned to Troop C in Sidney following the ceremony.

Delaware County Sheriff’s Deputies arrested and charged 23-year-old Peter Minko of Walton Friday for 1 count of Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance. A search of his vehicle in an April probation visit, found Minko to be in possession of a glassine envelope containing a white powdery substance, the State Police Regional Crime Laboratory late last month identified that substance as Heroin. Minko was issued an appearance ticket returnable in the Delhi Town Court at a later date.

The murder trial of Cal Harris will continue in Schoharie County Court, after Judge George Bartlett ruled against a defense motion for a mistrial following yesterday's opening statements by the prosecution. Harris has been convicted twice before for the murder of Michelle Harris in Tioga County Court, both convictions were overturned on appeal, & the 3rd trial was moved to Schoharie County.

State Police arrested 47-year-old Jason Bush of Deposit for Criminal Obstruction of Breathing or Blood Circulation, Criminal Mischief & Harassment. The arrest occurred after Troopers responded to a request to check the welfare of a woman at a residence on County Route 20 in Deposit, where Bush allegedly kicked, punched, choked & threw her phone so that she could not contact police. Bush faces court action Monday.

State police announced that 3 employees from 3 businesses were arrested Sunday during a state police underage drinking initiative. State police conducted stings at several establishments, charged with the prohibited sale of an alcoholic beverage, 43 year old Larry Pike of Oneonta at the Taylor’s Mini Mart in Oneonta, 26 year old Santiago Giraldo of New Rochelle at the Best Wine and Spirits on Route 7 in Oneonta, & 27 year old Mehwish Rena of Otego, at Betty Beaver’s Fuel Stop in Otego. All 3 will appear in court at later dates.

Bronx Assemblyman Carl Heasty was elected as the new Speaker of the Assembly this week, following the resignation of Sheldon Silver. Area Assemblyman Cliff Crouch comments:

(Crouch 2-6-15)

Silver resigned his position as Speaker after 21 years, following his arrest on federal corruption charges; he has NOT resigned his seat in the Assembly.

State Senator Jim Seward announced the launch of an on-line petition drive in support of his initiative to cut New York’s gas tax. Seward stated that New York consumers are faced with gas taxes that add up to approximately 63-cents a gallon. Senator Seward’s petition to “Cut The Gas Tax” can be found on his website, senatorjimseward.com.

Opening statements are scheduled to begin tomorrow at 9:30 in Schoharie County Court, in the 3rd murder trial of Cal Harris. 12 jurors & 6 alternates are set for the trial, where Harris is once again charged for the murder of his wife Michelle, around September 11th 2001 in Tioga County. Harris had 2 previous convictions overturned on appeal, this third trial was moved to Schoharie County after Harris’s attorneys asked for & received a change of venue.

Assembly Speaker Carl Heastie Was officially elected to the Speaker position Yesterday in Albany. He commented at a press conference after his election:

(Speaker Heastie 2-4-15)

Heastie replaces Sheldon Silver as Assembly Speaker; he is the first African American to hold that position.

The trial of State Senator Tom Libous is scheduled to begin July 13th. Libous was indicted last year for allegedly making a false statement to the FBI, when he was questioned about using his political influence to get his son Matthew a job at a Westchester County Law firm. Matthew Libous was found guilty last week on 3 counts of falsifying federal tax returns & he faces sentencing at a later date.

Local sales tax collections in 2014 suffered the slowest annual growth since the end of the 2008-09 recession, according to a report issued by State Comptroller Tom DiNapoli. Collections across the state grew by 3%, in 2013; the growth rate was 5.2%. DiNapoli’s report found that nearly 70% of the total growth in local sales tax collections last year took place in New York City. Regionally, the strongest 2014 sales tax growth was in the North Country, weaker increases were found in Central New York & in Long Island, where their slow growth was attributed to effects of “Superstorm Sandy”

Assemblyman Carl Heastie of the Bronx is expected to be voted in as the new Assembly Speaker today in Albany. The 47-year-old democrat will succeed Sheldon Silver, who resigned from the position after 21 year, following his recent arrest on corruption charges.

Governor Cuomo has submitted a 5-point plan to correct the ongoing issue of corruption among lawmakers, following the arrest of Assembly Speaker Sheldon Silver last week on corruption charges. Cuomo said that the reforms may lead to a late state budget for the first time during his administration.

(Cuomo 2-3-15)

Cuomo proposed total disclosure of outside income of all lawmakers, officials who are convicted of public corruption lose their retirement package, tightening up abuses in "Per diems" for travel by lawmakers which act as backdoor salary supplements, restrict campaign funds for campaigns only, & remove loopholes in campaign finance laws.

State Police arrested 31-year-old Jeremy Morris of Oneonta for Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance & on an outstanding bench warrant from the Town of Oneonta. The arrest occurred after Troopers were at the Oneonta Wal-Mart for an unrelated complaint, While speaking to Morris it was determined that he had a valid bench warrant for his arrest, it was then discovered that he unlawfully possessed heroin and syringes. Morris was issued a ticket returnable to the Town of Oneonta Court on February 10th; he was then arraigned in the Town of Davenport Court on the warrant and released without bail required.

Governor Cuomo has an executive budget proposed, Area assemblyman Cliff crouch comments:

(Crouch 2-3-15)

A state budget plan is due April 1st, the beginning of dealing with budget bills has been stalled by the arrest of Assembly Speaker Sheldon Silver.

Area Assemblyman Pete Lopez is waiting to see some movement in the top levels of the leadership in the Assembly, so that work can go forward after the arrest of Assembly Speaker Sheldon Silver:

(Lopez 2-3-15)

Silver’s arrest and his initial unwillingness to leave his leadership post quickly has stalled the state Assembly’s session.

State Police arrested 27-year-old Zachary Zlata of Downsville, for Driving While Intoxicated, following a 1-car accident on State Route 30 and County Route 1, in Andes. Zlata was driving while intoxicated when he crashed into the guide rail, injuring his unidentified female passenger, who was taken to an area Hospital for lacerations to her face. Zlata was issued tickets returnable to the Town of Andes court on March 12th.

State Senate Republican leader Dean Skelos of Long Island is being investigated by federal authorities for his outside income. Skelos reported income from a Long Island Law Firm of $150,000 to $250,000 dollars; he also listed a large investment with a Pharmaceutical company. His Assembly counterpart Sheldon Silver was arrested last week on corruption charges following a federal investigation.

Governor Cuomo announced that the average wait time at state-run DMV offices was reduced to 30 minutes, down from an 72 minutes only 2 years ago. State officials said the “dramatic reduction” was achieved through a two-year process that included a new reservation system, expanded office hours, New technology at call centers, Greeters who direct new customers to where they need to go & a redesigned DMV website.

State Police from Sidney arrested 22 year old Jacob Richie of Unadilla for Identity Theft, Criminal Possession of Stolen Property & Petty Larceny. The arrest followed the report of a missing debit card from a residence on PlankenHorn Road in Sidney, Richie was issued tickets returnable to the Town of Sidney Court on February 12th.

The Hope & Healing: Perspectives on Mental Illness seminar will be held at the Roxbury Arts Center Saturday with Keynote speaker Jason Paden discussing his battle with mental illness. this event is held in conjunction with Roxbury's exhibit of paintings by Delaware County artist David Byrd, Roxbury Arts Group Director Jenny Rosensweig explains:

(Jenny Rosensweig 1-30-15)

The Roxbury Arts Center is located at 5025 Vega Mountain Road in Roxbury, The free event runs from 9:30 – 3:00 pm with mental health advocates participating in round table discussions.

Governor Cuomo announced that the State Police would join local law enforcement agencies across the state in an effort to crack down on impaired driving during Super Bowl weekend. The STOP-DWI campaign will include increased patrols on the roadways and sobriety checkpoints to deter, identify and arrest impaired drivers. During the 2014 campaign, State Police made nearly 100 impaired driving arrests.

With Assembly Speaker Sheldon Silver under arrest on corruption charges, area state Senator John Bonacic said that he has ideas to curb that continuing problem:

(Bonacic 1-29-15)

Sheldon Silver was arrested last week by the FBI for allegedly taking kickbacks & hiding millions of dollars while serving as Speaker of the assembly since 1994.

90 state school districts have been designated as fiscally stressed under New York State Comptroller Tom DiNapoli’s Fiscal Stress Monitoring System. DiNapoli’s office evaluated 672 school districts. Locally, the Unatego district was listed in Moderate Stress, the Norwich City School & Charlotte Valley were listed as susceptible to fiscal stress. The full list of schools on the report can be accessed at osc.state.ny.us.

State Police from Deposit arrested 53-year-old William Barnhart of Deposit, for Driving While Intoxicated with a reportable BAC result of .17%. The arrest resulted from Delaware County 911 report of a disabled vehicle at the State Route 17, Exit 84 off ramp in Deposit. Troopers accuse Barnhart of drifting off the exit ramp and getting his vehicle stuck in a snow bank. Barnhart was issued tickets returnable to the Town of Deposit Court on February 23rd.

The Chenango county suicide prevention coalition was recently formed to increase awareness about the growing need for suicide prevention. Suicide is the 10th leading cause of death in the country currently; a Safe talk Training session will take place on Friday at the Morrisville State College Norwich Campus from 1:30 to 5:00 PM. More information is available at ccspc.webs.com.

Assembly Speaker Sheldon Silver has agreed to resign, he will officially give up his position as speaker to Majority Leader Joseph Morelle. Last Thursday, Silver was arrested by the FBI for allegedly accepting $4 million in payoffs and kickbacks.

Commerce Chenango & NBT Bank will host their annual Economic Forecast Breakfast on January 28th. The event will be held at the American Legion Post 189 at 29 Sheldon Street in Norwich.

Assembly Speaker Sheldon Silver agreed to relinquish his duties on a temporary basis following his arrest last week on federal corruption charges. Silver's announcement followed calls for his resignation, following accusations that he hid $4 million from bribery and kickback schemes, Silver has led the state assembly since 1994, on Sunday he designated a group of Assembly members to carry out his tasks

Governor Andrew Cuomo challenged the teachers of new York state in his state of the state address last week, calling on them to remember why they went into teaching in he first place:

(Cuomo 1-26-15)

Cuomo proposed a new series of reforms to evaluate teacher performance, after the previous system showed that almost 100% of teachers were highly successful, yet only 35 to 40% of students were succeeding.

State Senator Jim Seward received his committee assignments for the 2015 – 2016 senate sessions. Seward will once again chair the Insurance committee & will serve on the state senate Agriculture, Education, Finance, Health, Higher Education, Mental Health, & Rules committees.

Local lawmakers are calling for Sheldon Silver to resign as Speaker of the Assembly, following his arrest Thursday in New York City. Area Assemblyman Cliff crouch responds:

(Crouch 1-23-15)

Silver turned himself in to the FBI Thursday on corruption charges; he is accused of failing to disclose income he received from a second law firm, while serving in as Assembly Speaker, Silver posted $200,000 bail Thursday afternoon.

State Police from Sidney arrested 29-year-old Robert Utter of Otego for criminal obstruction of breathing, criminal contempt & 2nd degree harassment. The arrest resulted from an Otsego County 911 report of a dispute, the investigation determined that during a dispute Utter allegedly punched and choked his wife. This conduct violated a valid order of protection that was issued against him by the Oneonta Court. Utter was arraigned in Town of Franklin Court and was remanded to the Delaware County Correctional Facility in lieu of a $500.00 cash bail.

State Assembly Speaker Sheldon Silver was arrested by the FBI Today on federal corruption charges. Silver turned himself into the FBI; he is accused of failing to report income he received from an outside law firm as required. Silver has held office in the State Assembly since 1976 and has been the speaker since 1994.

Governor Cuomo delivered his annual budget proposal and state of the state address in Albany yesterday. The governor mentioned his plans to help the southern tier:

(Cuomo Southern Tier)

Cuomo's total budget decreases spending to 142 billion dollars, the legislature has until April 1st to pass a budget plan.

Area lawmakers are weighing in on their thoughts on Governor Cuomo's 2015 agenda, area assemblyman Cliff Crouch comments:

(Crouch 1-22-15)

Area State Senator Jim Seward comments:

(Seward 1-22-15)

Governor Cuomo unveiled a plan top cut middle class property tax burdens in this budget proposal, he also unveiled a plan to revamp the teacher evaluation system, which showed a student success rate of 35 to 40%, but a teacher competency rate of just under 100%

State Police arrested 73-year-old Spencer Harford of Amsterdam, for 3rd degree grand larceny. Troopers investigated a report of 2 bad checks that is accused of using to purchase cattle and a trailer, valued at almost $30,000 from a deposit woman. Harford was arraigned in the Village of Deposit Court and remanded to the Delaware County Jail on $10,000 cash bail or a $20,000 property bond pending future court action.

State Police arrested 19-year-old Samantha Wren of Hancock, for 2nd degree burglary & 2nd degree criminal contempt. The arrest occurred after Troopers investigated a theft of property from a residence in Hancock, police determined that Wren entered her mother’s residence without permission and stole an amount of cash, food and clothing, which also violated a valid order of protection. Wren was arraigned in the Village of Hancock Court and released without bail required.

The New York State Gaming Facility Location Board approved Governor Cuomo’s request for a new round of bidding for a casino in the Southern Tier. The Board originally reviewed 16 proposals for casino resorts in 3 upstate regions, they recommended licenses for only 3 projects instead of the original 4, last month and ignored 2 requests from the Southern tier in Johnson City & in Nichols. Governor Cuomo asked the board to consider a new round of bidding for a casino license specifically for the Southern Tier following the urging of State Senator Tom Libous & other local leaders.

State Police, the Vestal Police, the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, the DEA & Endicott Police arrested 38-year-old George Clarke Jr., of Endicott, following the execution of search warrants & the discovery of illegal drugs with a street-value of more than $180,000 and a large amount of cash. Clarke was charged with Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance, Criminal Possession of Marihuana, Criminally Using Drug Paraphernalia, Clarke was arrested after police executed search warrants at 2 locations, Police seized cocaine, marihuana, methamphetamine, and a Pickup truck during the searches. Clarke was arraigned in the Town of Union Court and remanded to the Broome County Jail without bail.

The state Assembly & State Senate are back in session for the 2015 sessions. Sheldon Silver was re-elected as Assembly Speaker again; he outlined the assembly agenda for this year:

(Silver 1-14-15)

Governor Cuomo will outlined his agenda and his executive budget proposal to a joint session of the legislature on January 21st.

State Police at Oneonta arrested 45-year-old Michael Stein of Delhi for Driving While Intoxicated & other vehicle and traffic law violation. The arrest occurred following a 1-car roll over accident on Coe Hill Road in Davenport. Troopers accuse Stein driving while intoxicated and crashing when he was using his cell phone to send a text message. Stein was transported to Fox Hospital for minor injuries; he was issued tickets returnable to the Town of Davenport at a later date.

state police responded to the report of an accident Monday night at around 7:40 PM on the East River Road in Walton, 31-year-old Travis Roloson of Delhi drifted off the road and into a tree, he was killed instantly. Roloson's girlfriend, 25-year-old Melissa Brannock was a passenger in the vehicle, she suffered a broken leg, and was taken to a Binghamton area hospital. The cause of the crash is still under investigation.

Assembly Speaker Sheldon Silver, who today convened the Assembly’s 2015-2016 Legislative Session. Silver was re-elected Speaker by members of the chamber and Assemblyman Joseph Morelle was re-appointed Majority Leader. Silver thanked his colleagues for re-electing him Speaker:

(Silver 1-8-14)

Silver has served as Speaker of the Assembly since 1994, and has served in the state assembly since 1976.