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WCDO News — Wednesday 11-12-14
Delaware County Sheriff’s Deputies & State Police arrested 32-year-old Christopher Eisele of Walton on an arrest warrant issued by the Town of Walton Justice Court on charges of 3rd degree Criminal Mischief & 3rd degree Criminal Trespass. Also arrested was 31 year old Laura Heslin of Binghamton on an arrest warrant for 3rd degree Criminal Trespass & & on a warrant for Aggravated Unlicensed Operation of a motor vehicle. Both subjects were arraigned & were remanded to the Delaware County Correctional Facility on $5,000 cash bail or $10,000 bond
A man was taken to a hospital after a tractor-trailer rollover over early this morning, according to the Broome County Sheriff's Office. Deputies responded at 1:05 a.m. to I 81, a mile north of Exit 7, the Castle Creek exit, for a tractor-trailer rollover. The tractor-trailer had rolled over on the right shoulder of the highway. The driver, 36-year-old Alfred Ray of New Jersey, received minor injuries and was taken to the hospital for evaluation. Ray was issued several traffic tickets to appearing the Town of Barker Court at a later date. The right lane on 81-N near exit 7 was shut down for several hours. Both lanes were opened just after 8:15 a.m.
The Empire Center has posted a list of government employees all over New York State who have won permission to double dip with both a salary and a pension. Most employees who are retired and taking a state pension are prohibited from returning to work and making more than $30,000 in annual salary - unless they get a special waiver from the state. The state has been harder on local governments in recent years to find someone who is not already retired to do the job. Go to seethroughny.net
Unatego Central School District residents are voting today on a proposition to purchase three, 66 passenger school busses and one, 20 seat passenger school bus. The cost is not to exceed $73,500. Voting in at the middle/senior high school in Wells Bridge until 8pm tonight
The Chenango County Health Department will hold a free rabies clinic today at the North Norwich Fire Station from 5:30 to 6:30 PM for dogs, cats & domesticated ferrets.
First comes the election, then comes speculation about a pay raise for state lawmakers. Legislators are wary of voting to hike their salaries before heading to the polls for re-election, the seven-week period between Election Day and the end of the year -- when the next state Legislature will be seated -- has traditionally been when talks of a raise have heated up. So far no legislative leaders have indicated anything is in the works. Unless a bill is passed before Jan. 1st, a raise would have to wait until 2017 at the earliest. Assembly speaker Sheldon Silver has long supported a pay raise for lawmakers, and it has support from some lawmakers’ downstate, where the cost of living is higher.
A man was taken to a hospital after a tractor-trailer rollover over early this morning, according to the Broome County Sheriff's Office. Deputies responded at 1:05 a.m. to I 81, a mile north of Exit 7, the Castle Creek exit, for a tractor-trailer rollover. The tractor-trailer had rolled over on the right shoulder of the highway. The driver, 36-year-old Alfred Ray of New Jersey, received minor injuries and was taken to the hospital for evaluation. Ray was issued several traffic tickets to appearing the Town of Barker Court at a later date. The right lane on 81-N near exit 7 was shut down for several hours. Both lanes were opened just after 8:15 a.m.
The Empire Center has posted a list of government employees all over New York State who have won permission to double dip with both a salary and a pension. Most employees who are retired and taking a state pension are prohibited from returning to work and making more than $30,000 in annual salary - unless they get a special waiver from the state. The state has been harder on local governments in recent years to find someone who is not already retired to do the job. Go to seethroughny.net
Unatego Central School District residents are voting today on a proposition to purchase three, 66 passenger school busses and one, 20 seat passenger school bus. The cost is not to exceed $73,500. Voting in at the middle/senior high school in Wells Bridge until 8pm tonight
The Chenango County Health Department will hold a free rabies clinic today at the North Norwich Fire Station from 5:30 to 6:30 PM for dogs, cats & domesticated ferrets.
First comes the election, then comes speculation about a pay raise for state lawmakers. Legislators are wary of voting to hike their salaries before heading to the polls for re-election, the seven-week period between Election Day and the end of the year -- when the next state Legislature will be seated -- has traditionally been when talks of a raise have heated up. So far no legislative leaders have indicated anything is in the works. Unless a bill is passed before Jan. 1st, a raise would have to wait until 2017 at the earliest. Assembly speaker Sheldon Silver has long supported a pay raise for lawmakers, and it has support from some lawmakers’ downstate, where the cost of living is higher.
WCDO News — Friday 11-7-14
The Deposit Central School District will host a “Heroin Education Night” on November 17th in the elementary school cafeteria. Deposit Principal Theresa Rajner explains:
(Theresa Rajner 11-6-14)
The event will begin at 6:00 PM on the 17th, pre registration isn’t required but is encouraged, at 467-2197.
Governor Cuomo today announced that households needing heating assistance could begin applying for New York’s Home Energy Assistance Program on Monday, November 17th. Eligible households can receive a one-time benefit of up to $625 this winter from the program, which is federally funded. Anyone living outside of New York City can apply for a regular Home Energy Assistance Program benefit online at myBenefits.ny.gov. Last year, more than 35,000 households applied through that site.
New York State has implemented tougher laws against distracted driving. There were 3,300 deaths in 2012 because of distracted driving. Along with bigger fines, all drivers convicted of texting while driving will receive five driver violation points on their license, instead of the usual three points. For more specifics go to safeny.ny.gov.
The attorney for State Senator Tom Libous has asked a federal judge in Westchester County to dismiss the case against him. Senator Libous was arraigned in July in a Federal court for 1 count of making false statements to the FBI in 2010; he is accused of scheming to get his son a job at downstate law firm in exchange for political considerations. Libous denies the charges; his son is facing several charges, including filing fraudulent tax returns to the IRS.
1 of the winners in Tuesday night's voting is now calling for election spending reform, saying donors 'should be obligated to share where that money came from." State Assemblyman Gary Finch won re-election in the 126th Assembly District, Finch said his opponent outspent him with the help of a half million dollars from Assembly Speaker Sheldon Silver. Finch plans to introduce reform measures in the next legislative session.
The National Weather Service announced their official weather prediction for this winter. They predict this winter in our area may not be as harsh as last winter. While the official prediction for winter is a milder one than average, the National Weather Service caution that weather can change quickly & it is important to always pay attention to storm watches, warnings and advisories.
(Theresa Rajner 11-6-14)
The event will begin at 6:00 PM on the 17th, pre registration isn’t required but is encouraged, at 467-2197.
Governor Cuomo today announced that households needing heating assistance could begin applying for New York’s Home Energy Assistance Program on Monday, November 17th. Eligible households can receive a one-time benefit of up to $625 this winter from the program, which is federally funded. Anyone living outside of New York City can apply for a regular Home Energy Assistance Program benefit online at myBenefits.ny.gov. Last year, more than 35,000 households applied through that site.
New York State has implemented tougher laws against distracted driving. There were 3,300 deaths in 2012 because of distracted driving. Along with bigger fines, all drivers convicted of texting while driving will receive five driver violation points on their license, instead of the usual three points. For more specifics go to safeny.ny.gov.
The attorney for State Senator Tom Libous has asked a federal judge in Westchester County to dismiss the case against him. Senator Libous was arraigned in July in a Federal court for 1 count of making false statements to the FBI in 2010; he is accused of scheming to get his son a job at downstate law firm in exchange for political considerations. Libous denies the charges; his son is facing several charges, including filing fraudulent tax returns to the IRS.
1 of the winners in Tuesday night's voting is now calling for election spending reform, saying donors 'should be obligated to share where that money came from." State Assemblyman Gary Finch won re-election in the 126th Assembly District, Finch said his opponent outspent him with the help of a half million dollars from Assembly Speaker Sheldon Silver. Finch plans to introduce reform measures in the next legislative session.
The National Weather Service announced their official weather prediction for this winter. They predict this winter in our area may not be as harsh as last winter. While the official prediction for winter is a milder one than average, the National Weather Service caution that weather can change quickly & it is important to always pay attention to storm watches, warnings and advisories.
WCDO News — Wednesday 8-13-14
60-year-old Almond Upton of Florida pleaded not guilty to first-degree murder and 10 other charges in Broome County Court this morning. Upton is accused of intentionally swerving on northbound Interstate 81 & hitting Trooper Christopher Skinner, who was conducting an unrelated traffic stop on the side of the highway. Upton is charged with 1st degree murder, 2 counts of 2nd degree Assault, 3 counts of criminal mischief & 5 counts of reckless driving, he faces court action again on August 29th.
State Police reported that 4 people were injured in an accident on State Route 7 in the town of Unadilla on Sunday. The accident occurred at around 2:45 Sunday afternoon, between a car and motorcycle occurred in a driveway near the juncture of Sheep Pen Road and Sanly Road, Police said that 21 year old Benjamin Newman of Bainbridge; & 68 year old Richard Lewis of Birmingham, Alabama collided, 4 people suffered a variety of injuries.
State Police at Oneonta arrested 43-year-old Ramnarine Baldeo of Schenectady for False Personation and Aggravated Unlicensed Operation. The arrest resulted from a stop for not wearing his seatbelt on I-88 in Oneonta; Baldeo is accused of giving the Trooper a false name and date of birth, to keep his suspended driver’s license from being found out. Baldeo was arraigned and was remanded to the Otsego County Jail in lieu of $1,500 cash bail.
State Labor Commissioner Peter Rivera today announced that through a partnership with the US Department of Treasury, New York leads the nation in the number of recoveries made, with more than 19,000 individuals who filed fraudulent Unemployment Insurance claims & had their federal tax refunds intercepted. The Program returned $21 million over the past 6 months to the Unemployment Insurance Trust Fund. New York was the first state in the nation to implement this program and has recovered more than $139.4 million since February 2011.
Hunting and trapping licenses, and Deer Management Permits for the 2014-15 season are now available for purchase through the State DEC. Sporting licenses and permits can be purchased at one of DEC's 1,100 license sales outlets statewide. Licenses can also be ordered at dec.ny.gov/permits. The 2014-2015 hunting and trapping licenses are valid for 1 year beginning this September 1st
Republican gubernatorial hopeful Rob Astorino, and the GOP statewide ticket, filed 4,400 pages of signatures in an attempt to create a "Stop Common Core" ballot line this fall. Astorino's campaign filed 62,000 signatures from voters in support of the effort, if certified by the state Board of Elections, the effort would give Astorino a 3rd ballot line against Governor Cuomo in the November election.
New York is getting new restrictions on the sale of ivory or rhino horn to prevent the slaughter of the endangered animals. Gov. Cuomo signed legislation into law that prohibits the sale of ivory or items containing it unless they are antiques or used for educational or scientific purposes. The rules would also apply to rhino horn. Federal law already restricts ivory imports and interstate sales. The Wildlife Conservation Society said New York is the nation's No. 1 importer of ivory.
Governor Cuomo is using his campaign money to pay the cost of travel for himself and his staff to Israel. The three-day journey to Israel is officially a government trip. But members of the delegation are using campaign funds to pay their way. State Senator Jeff Klein and Dean Skelos and Assembly Speaker Sheldon Silver are also using campaign funds. The group was scheduled to meet with Israel's prime minister, Benjamin Netanyahu today & return tomorrow.
State Police reported that 4 people were injured in an accident on State Route 7 in the town of Unadilla on Sunday. The accident occurred at around 2:45 Sunday afternoon, between a car and motorcycle occurred in a driveway near the juncture of Sheep Pen Road and Sanly Road, Police said that 21 year old Benjamin Newman of Bainbridge; & 68 year old Richard Lewis of Birmingham, Alabama collided, 4 people suffered a variety of injuries.
State Police at Oneonta arrested 43-year-old Ramnarine Baldeo of Schenectady for False Personation and Aggravated Unlicensed Operation. The arrest resulted from a stop for not wearing his seatbelt on I-88 in Oneonta; Baldeo is accused of giving the Trooper a false name and date of birth, to keep his suspended driver’s license from being found out. Baldeo was arraigned and was remanded to the Otsego County Jail in lieu of $1,500 cash bail.
State Labor Commissioner Peter Rivera today announced that through a partnership with the US Department of Treasury, New York leads the nation in the number of recoveries made, with more than 19,000 individuals who filed fraudulent Unemployment Insurance claims & had their federal tax refunds intercepted. The Program returned $21 million over the past 6 months to the Unemployment Insurance Trust Fund. New York was the first state in the nation to implement this program and has recovered more than $139.4 million since February 2011.
Hunting and trapping licenses, and Deer Management Permits for the 2014-15 season are now available for purchase through the State DEC. Sporting licenses and permits can be purchased at one of DEC's 1,100 license sales outlets statewide. Licenses can also be ordered at dec.ny.gov/permits. The 2014-2015 hunting and trapping licenses are valid for 1 year beginning this September 1st
Republican gubernatorial hopeful Rob Astorino, and the GOP statewide ticket, filed 4,400 pages of signatures in an attempt to create a "Stop Common Core" ballot line this fall. Astorino's campaign filed 62,000 signatures from voters in support of the effort, if certified by the state Board of Elections, the effort would give Astorino a 3rd ballot line against Governor Cuomo in the November election.
New York is getting new restrictions on the sale of ivory or rhino horn to prevent the slaughter of the endangered animals. Gov. Cuomo signed legislation into law that prohibits the sale of ivory or items containing it unless they are antiques or used for educational or scientific purposes. The rules would also apply to rhino horn. Federal law already restricts ivory imports and interstate sales. The Wildlife Conservation Society said New York is the nation's No. 1 importer of ivory.
Governor Cuomo is using his campaign money to pay the cost of travel for himself and his staff to Israel. The three-day journey to Israel is officially a government trip. But members of the delegation are using campaign funds to pay their way. State Senator Jeff Klein and Dean Skelos and Assembly Speaker Sheldon Silver are also using campaign funds. The group was scheduled to meet with Israel's prime minister, Benjamin Netanyahu today & return tomorrow.
WCDO News — Monday 8-11-14
State Police have released details of the double homicide and subsequent Broome & Cortland Counties high speed chase that ended Sunday . Police reponded to the reports of gunfire at 844 Pennsylvania Avenue in Palenville, troopers dsicvered Daniel Brennan of Schenectady & Pammi Mroczek of Palenville dead from gunshot wounds inside. Police began searching for Mroczek’s estranged husband & suspected killer 46 year old Robert Mroczek, who was found on I-81 in the town of Chenango. Mroczek fled, with a high spped pursuit into the Town of Cortlandville in Cortland County. The pursuit ended with the deployment of stop sticks causing Mroczek’s vehicle to travel off the east shoulder of the roadway. Mroczek was pronounced deceased at the scene from an apparent self inflicted gunshot wound to the head.---------------------------------------------
Tioga County Republican Denver Jones is facing stiff oppositions in his bid to take on state senator Tom Libous in a Republican primary. Libous' campaign challenged the 1,700 petition signatures Jones submitted, and the state Board of Elections tossed almost 800 signatures, leaving Jones about 30 shy of qualifying. Jones filed suit in State Supreme Court to have his petitions restored, that was followed another 15 signatures being tossed by the court itself.
Governor Cuomo will lead a delegation of state officials and business leaders to Israel as a show of “solidarity” this week. This is Cuomo’s first international trip since taking office as governor in 2011, with plans to take a commercial flight to Tel Aviv tomorrow. The delegation will include Assembly Speaker Sheldon Silver, Senate Republican Leader Dean Skelos and Senate Independent Democratic Conference Chairman Jeff Klein. The trip comes amid a continuing conflict between Israel and Palestinians that has been waged for more than a month
The City of Oneonta parking garage will be closed for maintenance two days this week. All three levels of the parking garage will be swept and striped. The garage will be closed from 4 a.m. Thursday until 6 a.m. Friday. All other municipal parking lots, including lots at Dietz Street, Wall Street and Westcott, will remain open as usual. During the closure of the parking garage, people may park in the Clarion Hotel parking lot, which can be accessed from South Main Street or Market Street.
Federal officials are seeking a psychiatric evaluation for Brandon Correa of Rochester following death threats made online President Obama, Governor Andrew Cuomo and Lieutenant Governor Robert Duffy & Rochester mayor Lovely Warren. Correa sites biblical passages with his threats on social media, he is being held in a Rochester area jail while the federal investigation is continuing.
State Attorney General Eric Schneiderman & 29 other state attorneys general sent a letter urging the FDA to strengthen its proposed regulation of electronic cigarettes, with the goal of protecting young people from the harms of nicotine. The attorney generals pressed the FDA to prohibit flavors in e-cigarettes, and to restrict advertising and marketing for e-cigarettes in the same manner as cigarettes. The FDA issued proposed regulations deeming e-cigarettes “tobacco products,” which puts them under the FDA’s regulatory jurisdiction.
Tioga County Republican Denver Jones is facing stiff oppositions in his bid to take on state senator Tom Libous in a Republican primary. Libous' campaign challenged the 1,700 petition signatures Jones submitted, and the state Board of Elections tossed almost 800 signatures, leaving Jones about 30 shy of qualifying. Jones filed suit in State Supreme Court to have his petitions restored, that was followed another 15 signatures being tossed by the court itself.
Governor Cuomo will lead a delegation of state officials and business leaders to Israel as a show of “solidarity” this week. This is Cuomo’s first international trip since taking office as governor in 2011, with plans to take a commercial flight to Tel Aviv tomorrow. The delegation will include Assembly Speaker Sheldon Silver, Senate Republican Leader Dean Skelos and Senate Independent Democratic Conference Chairman Jeff Klein. The trip comes amid a continuing conflict between Israel and Palestinians that has been waged for more than a month
The City of Oneonta parking garage will be closed for maintenance two days this week. All three levels of the parking garage will be swept and striped. The garage will be closed from 4 a.m. Thursday until 6 a.m. Friday. All other municipal parking lots, including lots at Dietz Street, Wall Street and Westcott, will remain open as usual. During the closure of the parking garage, people may park in the Clarion Hotel parking lot, which can be accessed from South Main Street or Market Street.
Federal officials are seeking a psychiatric evaluation for Brandon Correa of Rochester following death threats made online President Obama, Governor Andrew Cuomo and Lieutenant Governor Robert Duffy & Rochester mayor Lovely Warren. Correa sites biblical passages with his threats on social media, he is being held in a Rochester area jail while the federal investigation is continuing.
State Attorney General Eric Schneiderman & 29 other state attorneys general sent a letter urging the FDA to strengthen its proposed regulation of electronic cigarettes, with the goal of protecting young people from the harms of nicotine. The attorney generals pressed the FDA to prohibit flavors in e-cigarettes, and to restrict advertising and marketing for e-cigarettes in the same manner as cigarettes. The FDA issued proposed regulations deeming e-cigarettes “tobacco products,” which puts them under the FDA’s regulatory jurisdiction.
WCDO News — Tuesday 6-17-14
State Troopers arrested 41-year-old Gary Hackett of Guilford for Felony Driving While Intoxicated and Felony Aggravated Unlicensed Operation. The arrest occurred following a traffic law stop for speeding on County Route 36 in Guilford, troopers determined that Hackett was intoxicated and also had a suspended driver license. Hackett was arraigned in the Town of Guilford Court and remanded to the Chenango County Jail on $1,000 cash bail.
State agencies were late 87% of the time in approving contracts with not-for-profit providers last year, according to a report by State Comptroller Tom DiNapoli. This is an increase from 2012, when 78% were approved late. The Comptroller’s report recommends that state agencies Make prompt contracting a priority to reduce costs to the state and not-for-profits; Pay prompt contracting interest with the first payment due after the start of a late contract; and Re-align contract start dates to reflect the time required for the procurement process. The report can be viewed at osc.state.ny.us.
The state Assembly voted to ban hydraulic fracturing for natural gas for three years, but that’s as far as the bill is likely to go. Yesterday's 89-34 vote in favor of the ban on fracking could be symbolic, since the Senate isn’t expected to consider the legislation before lawmakers adjourn later this week. Assembly Speaker Sheldon Silver said there’s no reason to rush a decision on fracking before its effects on health and the environment are better understood. New York has had a moratorium on fracking since an environmental review was launched in 2008.
Governor Cuomo announced an agreement with legislative leaders on a bill that will cut requirements on microbreweries & farm breweries, and rolling back restrictions regarding the marketing of craft products. New York Brewers association President David Katlowski state that there is a movement among New York farmers to plant barley & hops again:
(David Katlowski 6-17-14)
The new legislation to help farm breweries & microbreweries is a result of the State's 2nd Wine, Beer, Spirits, and Cider Summit, held this past April.
State Police arrested 28-year-old Cory Nabinger of Harpursville for Driving While Intoxicated, following a motor vehicle accident on Tunnel Road in Fenton. An investigation determined that Nabinger was intoxicated when he crashed; He refused to submit to a breath test & was issued tickets returnable to the Town of Fenton Court on July 10th.
Lower wage employees from across the state are in Albany today to call on state lawmakers to raise New York's minimum wage. Supporters of the raise want to see the wage increase from $8 per hour to $10.10 per hour. The advocates are also calling for the minimum wage in New York City be raised to $13.13 per hour, and allow future increases based on inflation. It's unclear if lawmakers will vote on an increase.
State agencies were late 87% of the time in approving contracts with not-for-profit providers last year, according to a report by State Comptroller Tom DiNapoli. This is an increase from 2012, when 78% were approved late. The Comptroller’s report recommends that state agencies Make prompt contracting a priority to reduce costs to the state and not-for-profits; Pay prompt contracting interest with the first payment due after the start of a late contract; and Re-align contract start dates to reflect the time required for the procurement process. The report can be viewed at osc.state.ny.us.
The state Assembly voted to ban hydraulic fracturing for natural gas for three years, but that’s as far as the bill is likely to go. Yesterday's 89-34 vote in favor of the ban on fracking could be symbolic, since the Senate isn’t expected to consider the legislation before lawmakers adjourn later this week. Assembly Speaker Sheldon Silver said there’s no reason to rush a decision on fracking before its effects on health and the environment are better understood. New York has had a moratorium on fracking since an environmental review was launched in 2008.
Governor Cuomo announced an agreement with legislative leaders on a bill that will cut requirements on microbreweries & farm breweries, and rolling back restrictions regarding the marketing of craft products. New York Brewers association President David Katlowski state that there is a movement among New York farmers to plant barley & hops again:
(David Katlowski 6-17-14)
The new legislation to help farm breweries & microbreweries is a result of the State's 2nd Wine, Beer, Spirits, and Cider Summit, held this past April.
State Police arrested 28-year-old Cory Nabinger of Harpursville for Driving While Intoxicated, following a motor vehicle accident on Tunnel Road in Fenton. An investigation determined that Nabinger was intoxicated when he crashed; He refused to submit to a breath test & was issued tickets returnable to the Town of Fenton Court on July 10th.
Lower wage employees from across the state are in Albany today to call on state lawmakers to raise New York's minimum wage. Supporters of the raise want to see the wage increase from $8 per hour to $10.10 per hour. The advocates are also calling for the minimum wage in New York City be raised to $13.13 per hour, and allow future increases based on inflation. It's unclear if lawmakers will vote on an increase.
WCDO News — Thursday 6-12-14
State Police arrested 31 year old Dawn Otte, of Walton, for felony Aggravated Driving While Intoxicated in violation of Leandra’s Law. The arrest occurred after Troopers at the Delaware Valley Hospital observed an intoxicated woman walk in after driving herself. An investigation determined that Otte had also dropped off a child, less than 16 years old, prior to arriving at the hospital intoxicated, she was arraigned in the Village of Walton Court and then released without bail.
The Chenango County Sheriff’s office arrested James Fletcher of Coventry on an active arrest warrant for 2nd degree Burglary. Fletcher was charged for allegedly unlawfully entering a residence and stealing Jewelry, he is being held in the Chenango County Jail pending future court action.
The 1st phase of the Kamikaze curve construction project at state route 17 & I-81 in Binghamton will b completed in about 18 months, motorists in that area will notice a change in traffic patterns & detours there, according to State DOT Spokesman Dave Hamburg:
(Dave Hamburg 6-12-14)
Hamburg said that the project is on time & on budget, with this first phase expected to be completed in December of 2015.
Assembly Speaker Sheldon Silver is still pushing for the legislature to pass the minimum wage and Dream Act bills, as lawmakers work toward adjournment. The minimum wage proposal would raise the wage to $10.10 per hour; The Dream Act would extend financial aid to students who are in the country illegally. Both measures have support in the Assembly but face challenges in the Senate, where the Dream Act has already failed once. Senate Republican Leader Dean Skelos doesn't expect the Senate to consider any controversial legislation before the end of session on June 19th.
The state Senate passed a bill to require state colleges to inform law enforcement of a missing student or a violent felony within 24 hours. The Senate passed the measure on Wednesday and the Assembly passed the updated College Safety Act in March. It's now awaiting the signature of Governor Cuomo. The Legislature initially passed the College Safety Act in 1999 after the disappearance of University at Albany student Suzanne Lyall, it requires colleges & universities to notify local law enforcement of any violent felony offense or missing person on campus, it didn't require the schools to actually report such incidents to outside authorities.
Governor Cuomo will soon decide whether yogurt will become New York’s official state snack. The Assembly approved a bill to make yogurt an official state snack Wednesday, by a vote of 85-1, following a 45-minute debate in the state Senate last month. The bill was skewered by late-night TV hosts, including Jon Stewart and David Letterman, the bill heads to the governor’s desk; he is expected to sign it.
The Civil Service Employees Association members, who work for the state court system, have voted 2-to-1 in favor of a new contract covering 5,700 employees with annual 2 percent salary increases for three years. The contract runs retroactively from April 1, 2011 through March 31, 2017. Raises are scheduled for October of this year, April 2015 and April 2016, with a $750 bonus March 31, 2017.
The New York State Senate passed a bill that would ban the sale of powdered alcohol, known as Palcohol. The FDA approved the substance in April, but the agency quickly reversed its decision, the New York bill would ban the product in the state even if it gets approval from the FDA. Powdered alcohol has been banned in Alaska and legislation to ban it has been approved in South Carolina and Vermont.
The Chenango County Sheriff’s office arrested James Fletcher of Coventry on an active arrest warrant for 2nd degree Burglary. Fletcher was charged for allegedly unlawfully entering a residence and stealing Jewelry, he is being held in the Chenango County Jail pending future court action.
The 1st phase of the Kamikaze curve construction project at state route 17 & I-81 in Binghamton will b completed in about 18 months, motorists in that area will notice a change in traffic patterns & detours there, according to State DOT Spokesman Dave Hamburg:
(Dave Hamburg 6-12-14)
Hamburg said that the project is on time & on budget, with this first phase expected to be completed in December of 2015.
Assembly Speaker Sheldon Silver is still pushing for the legislature to pass the minimum wage and Dream Act bills, as lawmakers work toward adjournment. The minimum wage proposal would raise the wage to $10.10 per hour; The Dream Act would extend financial aid to students who are in the country illegally. Both measures have support in the Assembly but face challenges in the Senate, where the Dream Act has already failed once. Senate Republican Leader Dean Skelos doesn't expect the Senate to consider any controversial legislation before the end of session on June 19th.
The state Senate passed a bill to require state colleges to inform law enforcement of a missing student or a violent felony within 24 hours. The Senate passed the measure on Wednesday and the Assembly passed the updated College Safety Act in March. It's now awaiting the signature of Governor Cuomo. The Legislature initially passed the College Safety Act in 1999 after the disappearance of University at Albany student Suzanne Lyall, it requires colleges & universities to notify local law enforcement of any violent felony offense or missing person on campus, it didn't require the schools to actually report such incidents to outside authorities.
Governor Cuomo will soon decide whether yogurt will become New York’s official state snack. The Assembly approved a bill to make yogurt an official state snack Wednesday, by a vote of 85-1, following a 45-minute debate in the state Senate last month. The bill was skewered by late-night TV hosts, including Jon Stewart and David Letterman, the bill heads to the governor’s desk; he is expected to sign it.
The Civil Service Employees Association members, who work for the state court system, have voted 2-to-1 in favor of a new contract covering 5,700 employees with annual 2 percent salary increases for three years. The contract runs retroactively from April 1, 2011 through March 31, 2017. Raises are scheduled for October of this year, April 2015 and April 2016, with a $750 bonus March 31, 2017.
The New York State Senate passed a bill that would ban the sale of powdered alcohol, known as Palcohol. The FDA approved the substance in April, but the agency quickly reversed its decision, the New York bill would ban the product in the state even if it gets approval from the FDA. Powdered alcohol has been banned in Alaska and legislation to ban it has been approved in South Carolina and Vermont.
WCDO News — Tuesday 6-3-14
The man accused of intentionally hitting and killing State Trooper Christopher Skinner did not appear in court today. 60-year-old Almond Upton of Melrose, Florida waived his right to a preliminary hearing, which had been scheduled in Town of Chenango court today. Upton is charged with 1st degree murder, for allegedly hitting Trooper Skinner intentionally with his truck on I-81 last Thursday. Upton could face life in prison without parole.
While New York reports cutting power plant pollution by 40% over the past decade, the Obama administration has proposed national guidelines calling for new steep cuts over the next 15 years. The states’ Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative sets pollution caps and requires using or buying credits to exceed them; state officials welcomed the federal proposal. New York’s production of greenhouse gases is about ½ the national average per person, largely because ½ of its electricity is produced from nuclear and water power.
The first phase of the Prospect Mountain construction project is 65% finished, with the new Route 17 eastbound bridge opened to traffic last night. Dave Hamburg of the DOT Told WCDO News what lies ahead for that section over the summer months:
(Dave Hamburg 6-3-14)
Hamburg said that the project remains on schedule for completion by December 2015, it will bring I-81 traffic over a total of 6 bridges spanning the Chenango River & change the traffic pattern where the interstate meets State Route 17
New York’s highest court will consider whether municipalities can use local zoning laws to ban hydraulic fracturing to drill for natural gas. The Court of Appeals will hear arguments in 2 cases, one involving the Town of Dryden, where a midlevel appellate court concluded last year, that state mining & drilling law, doesn’t trump the authority of local governments to control land use. State officials are still studying whether to permit, limit and regulate the practice in New York.
The state Assembly has passed the Dream Act again, but the measure's fate remains uncertain in the Senate. The bill would extend state financial aid to students in the country illegally. The Assembly passed the measure in February, only to see it go down in defeat in the Senate. Assembly Speaker Sheldon Silver urged opponents in the Senate to reconsider, and said there's still time for the bill to pass before lawmakers adjourn later this month. Gov. Cuomo supports the measure and vowed to help get it passed.
State Senator Jim Seward announced senate passage of a package of legislation to provide New York’s military veterans with tax relief, expanded benefits, and special honors. Seward’s bill would exempt veteran’s organizations from paying taxes on heating fuel, currently, religious and charitable organizations are exempt from paying tax on non-highway diesel motor fuel used for heating purposes. The package of bills moves onto the Assembly for consideration.
While New York reports cutting power plant pollution by 40% over the past decade, the Obama administration has proposed national guidelines calling for new steep cuts over the next 15 years. The states’ Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative sets pollution caps and requires using or buying credits to exceed them; state officials welcomed the federal proposal. New York’s production of greenhouse gases is about ½ the national average per person, largely because ½ of its electricity is produced from nuclear and water power.
The first phase of the Prospect Mountain construction project is 65% finished, with the new Route 17 eastbound bridge opened to traffic last night. Dave Hamburg of the DOT Told WCDO News what lies ahead for that section over the summer months:
(Dave Hamburg 6-3-14)
Hamburg said that the project remains on schedule for completion by December 2015, it will bring I-81 traffic over a total of 6 bridges spanning the Chenango River & change the traffic pattern where the interstate meets State Route 17
New York’s highest court will consider whether municipalities can use local zoning laws to ban hydraulic fracturing to drill for natural gas. The Court of Appeals will hear arguments in 2 cases, one involving the Town of Dryden, where a midlevel appellate court concluded last year, that state mining & drilling law, doesn’t trump the authority of local governments to control land use. State officials are still studying whether to permit, limit and regulate the practice in New York.
The state Assembly has passed the Dream Act again, but the measure's fate remains uncertain in the Senate. The bill would extend state financial aid to students in the country illegally. The Assembly passed the measure in February, only to see it go down in defeat in the Senate. Assembly Speaker Sheldon Silver urged opponents in the Senate to reconsider, and said there's still time for the bill to pass before lawmakers adjourn later this month. Gov. Cuomo supports the measure and vowed to help get it passed.
State Senator Jim Seward announced senate passage of a package of legislation to provide New York’s military veterans with tax relief, expanded benefits, and special honors. Seward’s bill would exempt veteran’s organizations from paying taxes on heating fuel, currently, religious and charitable organizations are exempt from paying tax on non-highway diesel motor fuel used for heating purposes. The package of bills moves onto the Assembly for consideration.
WCDO News — Friday 5-23-14
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
Congressman Chris Gibson has authored “ The Vector-Borne Disease Research Transparency and Accountability Act of 2014” to update guidelines on treating tick borne illnesses, which will lead to insurance companies paying for treatments:
(Gibson 5-23-14)
Gibson said that early indications are that the bill has support in both houses of congress & in the White House. Gibson was in Sidney today to speak to the Sidney Rotary Club.
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.
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
Congressman Chris Gibson has authored “ The Vector-Borne Disease Research Transparency and Accountability Act of 2014” to update guidelines on treating tick borne illnesses, which will lead to insurance companies paying for treatments:
(Gibson 5-23-14)
Gibson said that early indications are that the bill has support in both houses of congress & in the White House. Gibson was in Sidney today to speak to the Sidney Rotary Club.
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.
WCDO News — Tuesday 4-8-14
Oneonta Police Department arrested 3 people on a variety of drug charges. Arrested were 24-Year-old Adam Scully of Oneonta , 22-year-old Ray Arnold of Oneonta for criminal possession of a controlled substance, Police confiscated 11 bags of heroin, also arrested was 25-year-old Cody Clapper of Oneonta, for conspiracy, criminal possession of a controlled substance and possession of a hypodermic instrument. Scully, Arnold and Clapper were arraigned in the City of Oneonta Court and sent to the Otsego County Correctional Facility pending a future court action.
Governor Cuomo, state leaders & Industry & Tourism leaders held the 2nd Wine, Beer, Spirits and Cider Summit in Albany today. The governor said that their efforts are paying off with an increase in jobs across the entire industry:
(Cuomo 4-8-14)
The Governor said that the 60 million dollars spent in tourism advertising has led to an increase in revenues for the tourism & Agriculture industries by over 4 billion dollars.
The Catskill Watershed Corporation has extended eligibility guidelines for its Septic Rehabilitation and Replacement Program. Homeowners within the New York City Watershed in Delaware, Greene, Schoharie, Sullivan or Ulster Counties may be eligible for assistance if their property is within 300 feet of a watercourse, and if their homes were built prior to November 2, 1995. The program pays 100% of the cost of replacing failed septic systems for permanent residences; 60% for non-primary residences. Homeowners who may be eligible for this program, should call 845-586-1400 to arrange for a CWC staff visit.
New York State of Health reported that Over 1.2 million New Yorkers have completed their applications and over 908,000 have enrolled for coverage since the launch of the Marketplace last October 1st. More than 70% of those who have enrolled to date were uninsured at the time of application. New York State of Health will continue to provide additional assistance to individuals who began the application process by March 31. All applications and enrollments must be completed by the end of the day on April 15th.
On April 3rd Delaware County Deputies participated in Operation Safe Stop to combat the illegal passing of stopped school buses. Deputies shadowed school buses during their morning and afternoon bus routes in the Downsville, Deposit, Delhi, Franklin and Stamford Central School Districts. During the Operation deputies issued 1 traffic summons to an individual that passed a Franklin School District Bus that was stopped with flashing red lights. Statistics show that increased awareness of school bus traffic laws has brought the umber of potentially deadly incidents way down since Operation Safe Stop began.
The prospects are not good for passage of a medical marijuana bill in the Legislature this year according to Assembly Speaker Sheldon Silver Silver said there has been “no interest” from the Senate in bringing up the issue for a vote. The Assembly’s Democratic majority included a medical-marijuana plan in its one-house budget resolution, but the issue never gained traction in closed-door budget negotiations. In his State of the State address in January, Gov. Andrew Cuomo said his administration will authorize medical marijuana on a limited basis, allowing up to 20 hospitals statewide to prescribe it to terminally ill patients.
Governor Cuomo, state leaders & Industry & Tourism leaders held the 2nd Wine, Beer, Spirits and Cider Summit in Albany today. The governor said that their efforts are paying off with an increase in jobs across the entire industry:
(Cuomo 4-8-14)
The Governor said that the 60 million dollars spent in tourism advertising has led to an increase in revenues for the tourism & Agriculture industries by over 4 billion dollars.
The Catskill Watershed Corporation has extended eligibility guidelines for its Septic Rehabilitation and Replacement Program. Homeowners within the New York City Watershed in Delaware, Greene, Schoharie, Sullivan or Ulster Counties may be eligible for assistance if their property is within 300 feet of a watercourse, and if their homes were built prior to November 2, 1995. The program pays 100% of the cost of replacing failed septic systems for permanent residences; 60% for non-primary residences. Homeowners who may be eligible for this program, should call 845-586-1400 to arrange for a CWC staff visit.
New York State of Health reported that Over 1.2 million New Yorkers have completed their applications and over 908,000 have enrolled for coverage since the launch of the Marketplace last October 1st. More than 70% of those who have enrolled to date were uninsured at the time of application. New York State of Health will continue to provide additional assistance to individuals who began the application process by March 31. All applications and enrollments must be completed by the end of the day on April 15th.
On April 3rd Delaware County Deputies participated in Operation Safe Stop to combat the illegal passing of stopped school buses. Deputies shadowed school buses during their morning and afternoon bus routes in the Downsville, Deposit, Delhi, Franklin and Stamford Central School Districts. During the Operation deputies issued 1 traffic summons to an individual that passed a Franklin School District Bus that was stopped with flashing red lights. Statistics show that increased awareness of school bus traffic laws has brought the umber of potentially deadly incidents way down since Operation Safe Stop began.
The prospects are not good for passage of a medical marijuana bill in the Legislature this year according to Assembly Speaker Sheldon Silver Silver said there has been “no interest” from the Senate in bringing up the issue for a vote. The Assembly’s Democratic majority included a medical-marijuana plan in its one-house budget resolution, but the issue never gained traction in closed-door budget negotiations. In his State of the State address in January, Gov. Andrew Cuomo said his administration will authorize medical marijuana on a limited basis, allowing up to 20 hospitals statewide to prescribe it to terminally ill patients.
WCDO News — Wednesday 4-2-14
The Sidney chamber of commerce announced this years winners of the Citizen of the Years & Business of the Year awards. This year’s citizen of the Years is former Sidney Fire Chief Barry Cole, who was surprised to receive the honor this morning:
(Barry Cole 4-2-14)
The Business of the Years is Video Entertainment Plus; owner Andy Matviak was also surprised to win:
(Andy Matviak 4-2-14)
Both will be honored at the Sidney Chamber’s Annual Dinner on Friday, June 6th at the Sacred Heart Banquet Hall, on Liberty Street in Sidney.
Assembly Speaker Sheldon Silver announced that he was very pleased with the final state budget, especially with regards to education:
(Silver 4-2-14)
State lawmakers finished voting on budget bills late Monday, the governor signed the budget into law on Tuesday.
The Chenango County Sheriff’s Department arrested 43 Year old Gary Cameron of Norwich on charges of –Criminal Contempt, Aggravated Harassment, & criminal Mischief. Cameron was charged following a domestic dispute in Norwich, destroying the victim’s property, with a 6-year-old child present. Cameron was arraigned & was released on his own recognizance and scheduled to reappear in court at a later date. He was arrested again for violating an order of protection issued by the court & was then remanded to the Chenango County Jail on $500 cash bail pending court action.
The State Labor Department released unemployment rates for February 2014. The state’s private sector job count rose by 117,200 since February 2013, & the unemployment rate was unchanged at 6.8%. The economy added 12,800 private sector jobs in February, bringing the state’s private sector job count to a record high of 7,543,100. Locally, Chenango County's unemployment rate is 7.7%, Delaware County 8.3% and Otsego County 7.6%
New York State of Health reported that 1,2 million new Yorkers completed their applications and 865,487 have enrolled for coverage since the launch of the Marketplace on October 1st. on Monday, the deadline day, almost 39,000 New Yorkers enrolled in coverage & nearly 134,000 enrolled over the last week.
A few thousand protesters rallied against New York’s gun-control laws yesterday, at an Albany rally featuring an appearance from Donald Trump. The protesters filled the south end of Albany’s Empire State Plaza, as speakers berated Governor Cuomo and the state Legislature, for passing the New York Safe Act last year. Trump was joined at the rally by Republican gubernatorial hopeful Rob Astorino and 2010 GOP nominee Carl Paladino, who is considering a run on a 3rd party line. State police reported that the protest was peaceful and no arrests were made.
Trout season opened Tuesday in New York State, however, Anglers said that rivers were too fast for them to catch anything. Fishing licenses are required for anyone over the age of 16; more information is available at dec.ny.gov. The season runs through October 15th.
(Barry Cole 4-2-14)
The Business of the Years is Video Entertainment Plus; owner Andy Matviak was also surprised to win:
(Andy Matviak 4-2-14)
Both will be honored at the Sidney Chamber’s Annual Dinner on Friday, June 6th at the Sacred Heart Banquet Hall, on Liberty Street in Sidney.
Assembly Speaker Sheldon Silver announced that he was very pleased with the final state budget, especially with regards to education:
(Silver 4-2-14)
State lawmakers finished voting on budget bills late Monday, the governor signed the budget into law on Tuesday.
The Chenango County Sheriff’s Department arrested 43 Year old Gary Cameron of Norwich on charges of –Criminal Contempt, Aggravated Harassment, & criminal Mischief. Cameron was charged following a domestic dispute in Norwich, destroying the victim’s property, with a 6-year-old child present. Cameron was arraigned & was released on his own recognizance and scheduled to reappear in court at a later date. He was arrested again for violating an order of protection issued by the court & was then remanded to the Chenango County Jail on $500 cash bail pending court action.
The State Labor Department released unemployment rates for February 2014. The state’s private sector job count rose by 117,200 since February 2013, & the unemployment rate was unchanged at 6.8%. The economy added 12,800 private sector jobs in February, bringing the state’s private sector job count to a record high of 7,543,100. Locally, Chenango County's unemployment rate is 7.7%, Delaware County 8.3% and Otsego County 7.6%
New York State of Health reported that 1,2 million new Yorkers completed their applications and 865,487 have enrolled for coverage since the launch of the Marketplace on October 1st. on Monday, the deadline day, almost 39,000 New Yorkers enrolled in coverage & nearly 134,000 enrolled over the last week.
A few thousand protesters rallied against New York’s gun-control laws yesterday, at an Albany rally featuring an appearance from Donald Trump. The protesters filled the south end of Albany’s Empire State Plaza, as speakers berated Governor Cuomo and the state Legislature, for passing the New York Safe Act last year. Trump was joined at the rally by Republican gubernatorial hopeful Rob Astorino and 2010 GOP nominee Carl Paladino, who is considering a run on a 3rd party line. State police reported that the protest was peaceful and no arrests were made.
Trout season opened Tuesday in New York State, however, Anglers said that rivers were too fast for them to catch anything. Fishing licenses are required for anyone over the age of 16; more information is available at dec.ny.gov. The season runs through October 15th.
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