WCDO Radio News

It appears less likely that a Special Session of the Legislature will be called before the end of the year, as Governor Cuomo & Senate leaders have differing agendas as the year closes. Governor Cuomo said that he wants to appropriate up to one billion more dollars to help the homeless, and expand of the state’s hate crimes law, lawmakers wants a pay raise for the first time in 17 years, & neither side is budging. Lawmakers will wind up back in Albany for a brand new session in January.

Attorney General Schneiderman urged all New Yorkers to take immediate steps to protect their personal information online, in the wake of Yahoo's recent disclosure that a third party had breached its servers and accessed the personal data of over 1 billion users. The data compromised includes email addresses, telephone numbers, dates of birth, hashed passwords (using MD5) and, in some cases, encrypted or unencrypted security questions and answers. The investigation indicates that the stolen information did not include passwords in clear text, payment card data, or bank account information. The Attorney General urges anyone with a Yahoo account to change their passwords and security questions -- not only with Yahoo accounts, but for any other accounts which you use the same or similar information.

State Comptroller Tom DiNapoli reminded New Yorkers that contributions to a New York State 529 College Savings Program account are tax deductible. Contributions made by December 31st can provide up to $10,000 in state tax deductions on 2016 income tax filings. New Yorkers can open an account and if they already have one can contribute and deduct up to $5,000 from their New York State taxable income. Married couples filing jointly can deduct up to $10,000 each year.

Delhi University police announced that they are searching for 21 year old Steven Sutliff, who told his roommates on Saturday afternoon that he was heading to Oneonta, and would return on Monday. Sutliff was reported missing on Tuesday evening. Sutliff is described as a 5'9" white male, weighing about 150 pounds, with brown hair and brown eyes. Anyone with information on Sutliff's whereabouts are asked to contact SUNY Delhi University Police at 607-746-4700, or New York State Police at 607-561-7400.

Governor Cuomo today announced that New York State will participate in the national “Drive Sober or get Pulled Over” enforcement campaign to crackdown on impaired driving this holiday season. Drivers can expect sobriety checkpoints and an increased number of Troopers patrolling New York roadways, starting today through Sunday, January 1st, 2017.

The Sidney American Legion is having its 21st annual children's Christmas party on Saturday, from 12:00 NOON to 1:30 P.M. Spokesman Larry Halbert explains:

(Larry Halbert 12-16-16)

The Sidney American legion is located at 22 Union Street; more information is available at 237-4762.

In November 2016, the State’s private sector job count increased by 4,800, or 0.1%, to 7,950,000, according to preliminary figures by the State Department of Labor. In November, New York’s statewide unemployment rate decreased from 5.2% to 5.1%.

Attorney General Eric Schneiderman today issued a fraud alert warning immigrants to be aware of potential scammers offering immigration services. In recent weeks, the Attorney General’s office and many legal aid organizations that work with immigrant communities have received an increased number of calls and reported scams. A hotline has been set up for those who have been targeted, all calls will be confidential and anonymous. The number is 1-800-566-7636, it is available between 9:00am to 8:00pm Monday through Friday.

The State DOT announced that bridge work on State Route 30/206 northbound and southbound over the East Branch of the Delaware River in the town Colchester will require intermittent road closures in both directions starting on November 30 through December 2 from 7:00 AM to 3:30 PM each day. Crews will be setting bridge girders for the new bridge. Motorists will encounter traffic stoppages intermittently for 10 – 15 minutes several times during the work hours daily. Flag personnel will control traffic. Motorists are advised to be alert for slow moving traffic and sudden stops.

Governor Cuomo today announced that temporary lane closures associated with road and bridge construction projects on New York State highways will not be permitted from today through 6:00 AM on Monday, in order to accommodate motorists during the busy Thanksgiving holiday travel week. Some work may continue behind permanent concrete barriers or for emergency repairs.

The State Department of Health today announced that it has officially filed amendments to the Medical Use of Marijuana regulations that will authorize nurse practitioners to register with the Department to certify patients for medical marijuana. The amendments will take effect on November 30th, when the notice of adoption will be published in the New York State Register. Nurse practitioners will need to take the Department-approved Medical Use of Marijuana course online. The proposed rulemaking will be published on November 30th and will be subject to a 45-day public comment period. So far, over 10,500 patients have been certified by more than 740 registered physicians to participate.

A Red Cross blood drive will be held in Greene today from 12:30 until 5:30 PM at the Church of the Immaculate Conception, 1180 State Highway 206. Appointments can be made with the Red Cross Blood Donor App, redcrossblood.org or 1-800-RED CROSS. All blood types are needed to ensure a reliable supply for patients.

Governor Cuomo announced plans to create a new hate-crimes unit in the state police and legal assistance for immigrants targeted for deportation or discrimination. Cuomo said Sunday that the legal assistance will take the form of a public-private legal defense fund run by the New York State Office for New Americans, The state police’s new hate-crimes unit has responded to numerous racial incidents since Election day with nazi literature & Swastikas found on Long Island, at a Brooklyn park, and in Wellsville & Livingston upstate

Governor Cuomo today announced that temporary lane closures associated with road and bridge construction projects on New York State highways will not be permitted from 6:00 AM Wednesday, through 6:00 AM Monday, in order to accommodate motorists during the busy Thanksgiving holiday travel week. Some work may continue behind permanent concrete barriers or for emergency repairs. AAA predicts that nearly 49 million people will travel more than 50 miles from home from Wednesday through Sunday, and more than 89% of those travelers will be driving. That number is up an estimated two percent over last year and is the highest number of expected Thanksgiving travelers since 2007.

NYSEG reported scattered power outages across the state today, due to heavy wet snow knocking down tree limbs & power lines. Nyseg crews have been working to restore power as quickly as possible.

State Attorney General Eric Schneiderman issued a statement on the $25 million settlement agreement reached in Trump University fraud case. Schneiderman stated that his office first sued Donald Trump in 2013 for swindling thousands of Americans out of millions of dollars through a scheme known as Trump University. Trump agreed to a $25 million settlement agreement for over 6,000 victims of the fraudulent Trump University.

The Chenango County Sheriff's Office responded to an Armed Robbery Friday at the Speedway Gas Station, in the Town of Norwich. The suspect displayed what appeared to be a handgun and demanded money from the store employee. The Sheriff's Office arrested 36 year old Jeremy Farnsworth of Norwich for 2nd degree Robbery police recovered the stolen cash and the weapon used in the robbery. Farnsworth was arraigned in the Town of Norwich Court and remanded to the Chenango County Correctional Facility on $25,000 cash bail. He is to reappear in court on November 22. The State Police and City of Norwich Police Department assisted with the investigation.

More American red cross blood drives will be held in Oneonta today from 12:00 Noon to 5:00 PM at Hartwick College, & Tuesday from 11:00 AM to 3:00 PM at the Country Club Auto Group, 55 Oneida Street appointments are requested with the red cross App, at recrossblood.org or 1-800 red cross.

Voting continues today & this evening, as people decide on the Presidential campaign, one seat in the US Senate from New York, 2 local seats in the US House of Representatives, plus all of the seat in the State Senate & State Assembly. Several towns also have seats to fill. Polls are open until 9:00 tonight.

Coldwell Banker/Timberland Properties have teamed up with Community Bank, Neighbors Insurance & State Farm Insurance in Sidney, to give away Green Light Bulbs to honor military veterans this Friday, Veterans Day. Steve Rose of Coldwell Banker Timberland Properties of Sidney explains:

(Steve Rose 11-8-16)

More information about the program is available at Green Light a Vet.com, the bulbs will be handed out while they last at the Coldwell Banker Timberland Properties Community Bank building at their Union Street Sidney location, and at the State Farm/Neighbors Insurance office at State Route 7 Riverside Sidney.

Attorney General Eric Schneiderman reminded voters that his office has created a Hotline to help troubleshoot and resolve a range of issues and barriers encountered by voters at the polls for the General Election today, November 8. The Attorney General urges voters experiencing problems or issues at the polls to call the office's hotline at 800-771-7755 or email civil.rights@ag.ny.gov, through 9:00 PM tonight.

Tax collections through the first half of the state fiscal year fell $1.3 billion or 3.5% from the same period a year ago, as personal income tax receipts, lagged behind expectations, according to a report by State Comptroller Tom DiNapoli. Tax collections through September 30, were below collections in five of the first six months of last year. Collections were $918.7 million lower than original projections in the Enacted Budget Financial Plan, but $11.3 million higher than the most recent projections.

Attorney General Eric Schneiderman announced that his office has created a Hotline to help troubleshoot and resolve a range of issues and barriers encountered by voters at the polls for the General Election on November 8. The Attorney General urges voters experiencing problems or issues at the polls to call the office's hotline at 800-771-7755 or email civil.rights@ag.ny.gov at any time on Tuesday between 6 a.m. and 9 p.m.

Jericho arts council presents the Corvettes Saturday night at the Bainbridge town hall, spokesman Phillip Wade comments:

(Phil Wade 11-4-16)

The Corvettes Doo Wop Revue is tomorrow 7:00 PM, Bainbridge, reservations are available by calling 967-3169, Tickets will be available at the door prior to the concert

State Police arrested 59 year old Edward Henry of Milford for Forcible Touching, and Sexual Abuse, following allegations of subjecting another person to unwanted sexual contact without the victim’s consent. Henry was arraigned in the Town of Laurens Court and posted $1,000 bail and was released pending further court action. The investigation is ongoing.

A Red Cross blood drive will be held in Oxford Saturday from 7:30 AM to 12:30 PM, at the American Legion at 17 South Washington Street. Prospective donors can download the American Red Cross Blood Donor App, visit redcrossblood.org or call 1-800-RED CROSS to make an appointment.

State Police announced today that State Trooper Timothy Pratt died this morning as a result of injuries suffered when he was struck by a vehicle on Ballard Road in the town of Wilton, at about 6:55 AM, while assisting the driver of a tractor trailer on Ballard Road, Trooper Pratt was struck by a passing car and critically injured. Trooper Pratt was airlifted to Albany Medical Center where he died from his injuries at approximately 9:30 a.m. Trooper Pratt became a member of the State Police in 1987, he was 55 years old. Funeral arrangements should be announced shortly. Police added that no charges will be filed against the driver of the 2nd vehicle.

Attorney General Eric Schneiderman announced that his office has reached separate $6 million settlements with DraftKings and FanDuel, resolving lawsuits alleging false and deceptive advertising practices by the companies. The agreements also require sweeping reforms to the companies' marketing, including clear disclosure of terms and conditions for marketing promotions, expected winnings, and expected performance in the online contests, as well as resources for players at risk for compulsive gaming disorders, including addiction. the companies will be required to maintain a webpage that provides information about the rate of success of users in its contests, including the percentage of winnings captured by the top 1%, 5% and 10% of players.

State Police arrested 32 year old Amber Roe of Oneonta, for operating a motor vehicle while ability impaired by drugs. Troopers stated that Roe drove herself to the State Police Oneonta Barracks to report a theft, Troopers determined that Roe was driving while impaired by drugs, she consented to a Blood Test & lab results are pending. Roe was issued tickets returnable to the Town of Oneonta Court on November 15, 2016.

The State Financial Services Department & the Otsego County District Attorney John Muehl today announced the arrest of 34-year-old Lawrence Woodards of Cooperstown, and 34-year-old Kevin Williamson of New York City, for allegedly stealing approximately $25,000 in tax proceeds from the Otsego County Treasurer's Office. Woodards is accused of stealing approximately $14,000 while employed as an account clerk typist in the Treasurer's Office. Williamson is accused of depositing the checks into his bank account and then mailing approximately half of the money back to Woodards. Bother were charged with 3rd degree Grand Larceny. They were arraigned in Town of Otsego Court and were both released on their own recognizance pending a November 16th hearing.

74% of guns used in crimes in New York originated from other states, and 86% recovered handguns came from outside the state, according to a report Tuesday from state Atoortney General Eric Schneiderman. State law enforcement agencies recovered 52,915 firearms between 2010-2015. Only 6% Of Guns Were Recovered From The Original Purchaser. Schenderman’s report indicated that New York’s tough guns laws were undermined by lesser regulations in other states. The full report can be accessed at ag.ny.gov

NY State of Health announced that open enrollment for New Yorkers seeking health insurance coverage in 2017, through Qualified Health Plans begins on November 1st. Open Enrollment runs through January 31, 2017.

The Chenango County Sheriff’s Office & State Police arrested 27 year old Kenneth Oefelein of Coventry on 2 counts of Criminal Mischief. Oefelein allegedly damaged property of the victim and did not allow her to call 911, during a domestic dispute on October 19th. Oefelein was arraigned in the Town of Coventry court and is being held on $5000 cash bail. Oefelein is to reappear in the Town of Coventry court at a later date.

Attorney General Eric Schneiderman, State Police and the Massachusetts DEA Task Force today announced the indictment of more than 2 dozen people for their roles in an alleged national heroin smuggling ring. The investigation, seized more than 33 kilos of heroin and 2 kilos of Fentanyl worth about $13 Million dollars, plus weapons & vehicles, The operation netted alleged dealers and traffickers in New York, Massachusetts, Pennsylvania, Arizona, and New Jersey, it is one of the largest heroin seizures ever in New York and is the single largest single seizure in the 46-year history of the state's Organized Crime Task Force.

State Police responded to a car & tractor trailer fatal crash on State Route 90 in the Town of Homer. A 61 year old Cortland man was driving a Subaru southbound, he drifted into the northbound lane and struck a tractor trailer driven by 48 year old Michael Gross of Norwich. Police said that the Subaru spun off the southbound shoulder and came to rest, the tractor trailer crossed over the southbound lanes and came to rest in a swamp, diesel fuel spilled onto the roadway, and the tractor began to burn. The unidentified Cortland man was declared dead at the scene, Gross was transported to Upstate Medical for non-life threatening injuries. The deceased driver’s name is not being released pending family notification.

The Jericho Arts Council will hold the first of their scheduled events for the season Saturday, Spokesman Phillip Wade explains:

(Phil Wade 9-23-16)

Other scheduled events for the season include Zink & Company on October 22, The Corvettes on November 5th, & The Out Of The Woodwork Players performance of "Double Wide Texas" on November 18th & 19th. More information is available at jerichoarts.com.

The State DEC announced that early bowhunting seasons for deer in New York State will be starting soon. Early bow season for deer begins in the Northern Zone at sunrise on Tuesday, September 27, and continues through October 21. In the Southern Zone, early bow season for deer and bear begins Saturday, October 1 and continues through November 18. Deer hunters should also be aware that the application deadline for Deer Management Permits is October 1. More information is available at dec.ny.gov.

State Attorney General Eric Schneiderman announced that his office has reached settlements with Viacom, Mattel,  Hasbro and JumpStart Games resolving investigations into the companies' violations of the Children's Online Privacy Protection Act. "Operation Child Tracker," discovered that websites operated by these companies were home to tracking technology that illegally enabled third-party vendors, to track children's online activity in violation of the law. The companies agreed to pay a combined $835,000 in penalties and implement significant reforms.

State Police were dispatched to West River Road, in the Town of Nichols, for a vehicle off the road. 32 year old Harley Spencer of Sayre, Pennsylvania drove his minivan off the east shoulder of the road and struck a tree. Spencer died at the scene from the injuries he sustained in the collision, the investigation into the cause of the accident in continuing.

State Police arrested 31 year old Kevin Craven of Binghamton, for criminal obstruction of breathing or blood circulation and harassment, after troopers responded to a Broome County 911 report of a dispute at a home on Burr Avenue in the Town of Binghamton. Craven is accused of pushing the vicitm several times & choking the victim against a wall. Craven was arraigned in the Town of Binghamton court and was remanded to the Broome County jail on $500 cash bail or $1,000 property bond. An order of protection was issued.

State Police arrested 21 year old Colby Russo of Margaretville, for criminal obstruction of breathing or blood circulation and harassment, after troopers responded to a dispute at a home on Thompson Hollow Road in the Town of Middletown. Russo allegedly punched and choked the victim during an argument. Russo was arraigned in the Town of Middletown where he was released on his own recognizance to appear at the court on October 13, 2016. An order of protection was issued by the court against him.

The American Red Cross encourages eligible donors to give blood to help ensure a readily available blood supply for emergencies. In Sidney a blood drive will be held today from 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM at the SFCU at 42 Union Street. .Donors of all blood types are needed. To make an appointment to give blood, download the Red Cross Blood Donor App, visit redcrossblood.org or call 1-800-RED CROSS.

The Binghamton Senators announced that single game tickets for the team’s 2016-17 regular season home games will go on sale Monday, September 19th at 10:00 AM at the B-Sens Executive Offices, the Arena Box Office, and all Ticketmaster outlets. Binghamton will play 37 regular season games at Floyd L. Maines Veterans Memorial Arena in addition to a home preseason game against the Rochester Americans on Saturday, October 8th starting at 7:05 p.m. The B-Sens’ home opener is scheduled for Saturday, October 15th against the Hershey Bears at 7:05 p.m.

Cal Harris was sentenced in Owego Village Court today on a harassment charge. Harris was found guilty of harassing a student at a SUNY Broome satellite campus back in March of 2015, he will serve no jail time, he was ordered to undergo anger management and an order of protection was issued, & Harris will also have to pay a fine. Harris said that he plans to appeal, Harris is still facing a charge for allegedly stalking a state police investigator in Oneonta, right after Harris was released after a 4th trial for murdering his estranged wife Michelle in September 2001.

This year's American Cancer Society's Tri Town Relay for Life at General Clinton Park in May, raised $90,046. The money raised will be used for Cancer research, Education, advocacy, and services for patients. Money will also go to the 3 "Hope Lodges" where patients can stay while going through Cancer Surgery or treatment. More information is available at cancer.org.

Just under $310 in cash was raised Friday at the Penguin Ice Cream & Snack Bar for the Delaware Valley Humane Society. Numerous donations of cleaning supplies, food & bedding were also donated at the event at the State Route 8 Masonville location Friday.

A "Glow Run" benefit will be held at General Clinton Park in Bainbridge on Saturday September 17th starting at 5:00 PM, to raise money for an Oxford Nurse battling Leukemia. Sidney Native & Cancer Survivor Heather Bucalos is coordinating her 2nd "Glow Run"; she was inspired by people who held fundraisers for her against her battle against Hodgkin's Lymphoma, she told WCDO News how to register for this event.

(Heather Bucalos 9-7-16)

Last year's event assisted Ken Long of Binghamton, this year, Mindy Ives Natoli of Oxford will be the recipient of funds raised through the Glow Run & the sale of T-shirts commemorating the event. More information is available at the Glow With The Flow Benefit 5K run/walk/ Roll Facebook page.

State Attorney General Eric Schneiderman announced his office is investigating Mylan Pharmaceuticals, the maker of EpiPens, after a review by the Office of the Attorney General revealed that Mylan might have inserted potentially anticompetitive terms into its EpiPen sales contracts with numerous local school systems. Mylan's EpiPen is the predominant epinephrine autoinjector, which is used where an individual suffers a severe allergic reaction, which could otherwise lead to death.

State Police arrested 26-year-old Brittany Waldruff and 24 year old Derrick Waldruff of North Norwich, on 4 counts of cruelty to animals. Their arrests occurred after troopers responded to assist the Norwich Dog Control Officer with an abandoned beagle and puppies at home on State Route 12 in the Town of North Norwich. The Waldruffs are accused of abandoning their pet beagle and her 4 new puppies without food or water inside a locked apartment after they were evicted. Both were issued tickets returnable to the Town of North Norwich Court on September 14th.

Governor Cuomo today signed landmark legislation mandating that schools test drinking water for lead contamination. Lead is a toxic material that is extremely harmful to young children and can result in lowered IQ, behavioral problems and brain damage. The state Department of Health also issued emergency regulations pursuant to the new legislation, requiring that school districts test their water for lead contamination by Oct. 31, 2016 and report results to parents, the state Department of Health and local government officials. These new regulations will reduce the risk for exposure to this dangerous substance and ensure all New York’s students have access to clean, drinkable water.

In April, the Department of Defense ordered a stop shipment at Amphenol of Sidney, which led to a layoff of about 100 employees, an expected 2 year wait for the order to be lifted, but today, U.S Senator Charles Schumer, Congressman Chris Gibson & Amphenol leaders announced that the ordered was revered in 4 months, the federal red tape was cut through & the employees have returned to the Sidney facility. Senator Schumer responded:

(Schumer 8-29-16)

Congressman Gibson also discussed the reversal of fortune for Amphenol:

(Gibson 8-29-16)

Others who addressed the press conference today were Sidney mayor Andy Matviak, Amphenol General Manager Ryan Fisher & Amphenol CEO Adam Norwitt.

Upstate New York lags behind downstate New York and the nation in job growth since the Great Recession, according to a report issued by State Comptroller Tom DiNapoli. Since June 2009, total employment in upstate New York rose by 0.3 percent compared to 2.2 percent in the downstate region and 1.9 percent nationwide during the same time frame. The overall average annual wage gain in upstate of 3.3 percent outpaced both the downstate and national averages in 2015. Currently, total employment across upstate stands at slightly over 3 million, representing 32 percent of all jobs statewide.

In a letter sent this week, State Senator Fred Akshar joined Senate Health Committee Chairman Kemp Hannon in calling Attorney General Eric Schneiderman to investigate the sharp increase in the cost of EpiPens. Between 2007 and 2016, the cost of an EpiPen has increased from $57 to approximately $500. The letter stated that some have resorted to using expired EpiPens, buying Epinephrine abroad, or using needles from local pharmacies to administer their medication, Emergency First Responders are affected as well.

State Police arrested 28 year old Cassandra Reithoffer of Nineveh, for 2nd degree burglary, after troopers were advised of a burglar at a home on O’Brien Road in the Town of Sanford. Reithoffer allegedly forced entry into the home and stole over $2,000 in property from it. Reithoffer was arraigned in the Town of Sanford court and was remanded to the Broome County jail with no bail set.

State Police arrested 21 year old Mohammad Sadique of Woodmere for criminal possession of a controlled substance, unlawful possession of marihuana and traffic violations. Sadique was observed speeding at 60 mph, while in a 30 mph zone, on Lower Main Street in the Town of Oneonta. Sadique was found to unlawfully possess a small amount of LSD and marihuana. He was issued tickets returnable to the Town of Oneonta court on September 6th.

Governor Cuomo announced that the Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services and Office of Fire Prevention and Control will visit the state’s colleges and universities to conduct inspections, education programs, and a series of campus fire safety education training days. In the last year, Office of Fire Prevention and Control has conducted 23,689 inspections.

The Village of Sidney Police Department executed a search warrant Tuesday at 17 Cartwright Avenue, following an investigation into the sale of illegal narcotics in the Village. During the search, Cocaine, Marijuana, and drug paraphernalia were seized. 25-year-old Emery Rivera-Estrella of Sidney was charged with Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance with intent to sell & Unlawful Possession of Marijuana. She was arraigned in the Village of Sidney court where she was remanded to the Delaware County Correctional Facility on $10,000 cash bail or $20,000 bond. More charges are pending. The Sidney Police Department was assisted by the Delaware County Sheriff's Office with K9 Ozzie & the State Police during the execution of the search warrant.

State Attorney General Eric Schneiderman today announced the sentencing of Donald McManus of Apalachin, following allegations that McManus pocketed $8,200 worth of the proceeds from the sale of leftover copper used as part of the East Campus dorm construction at SUNY Binghamton. McManus was sentenced in Vestal Town Court to 3 years of probation; McManus must pay restitution to SUNY Binghamton in the amount of $8,256.59, and is prohibited from working in a construction job or in any capacity for SUNY Binghamton. McManus entered a plea of guilty on March 4th, to 4th degree Attempted Grand Larceny.

Governor Cuomo announced the first $18 million of awards of the Southern Tier Agricultural Industry Enhancement Program, which helps farmers and agribusinesses expand and improve their operations, while promoting the responsible use and protection of the State’s natural resources. In this first round, 214 projects were awarded funding in 11 counties throughout the Southern Tier. Locally, Broome, Chenango & Delaware counties will get over 4 million dollars in Grants through the program.

Governor Cuomo announced that more than $50 million has been awarded to the state’s 59 county-based Area Agencies on Aging to help New York’s seniors remain in their homes and communities of choice. The funding will help maximize independence and prevent advanced and more expensive levels of care for seniors. Nearly 70,000 New York seniors will benefit from the program; Southern Tier seniors will receive $2,764,112. The complete list of awards by county is available on the New York State Office for the Aging website.

Attorney General Eric Schneiderman announced the arrest and arraignment of 4 former employees of Focus Rehabilitation and Nursing Center in Cooperstown, who are accused of leaving a 94-year-old patient left in a recliner with substandard care for 41 hours over the Memorial Day weekend in May. Lorraine Caldwell, of Holland Patent, Amanda Gus of Hartwick, Sarah Schuyler of Mohawk and Donna Gray, of Sidney were charged with Falsifying Business Records, Endangering the Welfare of an Incompetent or Physically Disabled Person & Willful Violation of Health Laws, all 4 were arraigned in Town of Otsego Court & were released on their own recognizance.

The state DOT Announced that sections of state highways 8 & 51 that were damaged by storms & flash Floods, are improved since yesterday. DOT Region 9 Spokesman Dave Hamburg told WCDO News today that Route 8 was opened late yesterday afternoon to alternating traffic controlled by temporary signals. The Route 51 Bridge at County Route 3 between Mt. Upton and Morris was opened to traffic this morning. Both areas are safe for travel and work at both locations continues.

Governor Cuomo announced that the New NY Broadband Program has made progress toward achieving its goal of broadband for all. On the heels of its merger with Time Warner Cable, Charter Communications has outlined its four-year rollout plan to service 145,000 currently unserved households in upstate New York.

(Cuomo 8-3-16)
Additionally, Charter will make available internet speeds of 100 megabits per second for more than 2 million upstate homes and businesses by early 2017, The Governor also unveiled the Program’s Round I awards, which will connect 34,000 homes to high-speed internet for the first time, giving 97% of New Yorkers broadband access.

State Police at Sidney arrested 62-year-old James Jordan of Otego for menacing & criminal mischief, after troopers responded to a report of a fight at a home on State Route 7 in the Town of Otego. Jordan was in a physical dispute with another man while in his garage, when he allegedly grabbed an axe and threatened the other man with it, & for smashing the taillight on the man’s Volkswagen Jetta. Jordan left the scene but was located nearby and arrested, he was arraigned in Town of Otego court and was released without bail required. His next court date in the Town of Otego is on August 25th.

State Senator Jim Seward & Assemblyman Bill Magee announced a $1 million grant, with half coming from each legislative house, to help fund the 12-tower Otsego County emergency communication system. The System is expected to be completed later this fall.

State Police arrested 43-year-old Laurie Smith of Johnson City, for operating a motor vehicle while impaired by drugs and other traffic violations, following a property damage crash on South Main Street in the Village of Sherburne. Smith was allegedly driving while impaired by drugs when she failed to keep right and struck another vehicle causing damage. She had her blood tested, at Chenango Memorial Hospital, lab results are pending. Smith was issued tickets returnable to the Village of Sherburne Court on August 15th.

Tax collections totaling $19.8 billion fell short of projections for New York state in the first quarter of the state’s fiscal year, a decline of $797.6 million, or 3.9 percent, from the same period last year and $454.1 million below projections, according to the June state cash report issued today by State Comptroller Tom DiNapoli. The General Fund ended June with a balance of $7.2 billion, which was $975.8 million lower than the latest projection and $3.9 billion lower than a year earlier. The report can be accessed at osc.state.ny.us.

State Senator Fred Akshar will be hosting the First Annual "Spiedies with the Senator" today at Chenango Valley State Park from 5:30pm - 7:30pm. The event will take place in the Pine Plains Pavilion of park. There will be plenty of free parking and after 5:00 PM there is no admission charge for park entry. Tickets for the general public are $25 and kids under 12 get in free.

Attorney General Eric T. Schneiderman announced a new grant initiative to address the growing statewide problem of so-called "zombie homes" – vacant and abandoned homes that are not maintained during a prolonged foreclosure proceeding. The Zombie Remediation and Prevention Initiative will provide $13 million in grants to local governments throughout the state through a competitive application process. The 100 communities with the greatest problem of zombies and vacancy have been invited to apply for the funds. The money will address housing vacancy and blight by bolstering municipalities' capacity for housing code enforcement, for tracking and monitoring vacant properties, and for legal enforcement capacity to ensure banks and mortgage companies comply with local and state law.

In June, New York State’s private sector job count increased by 23,900, or 0.3%, to over 7.9 million, according to preliminary figures released today by the State Department of Labor. Since the beginning of Governor Andrew M. Cuomo’s administration, New York State’s economy has added 824,100 private sector jobs and experienced employment growth in 57 of the past 66 months. The statewide unemployment rate was unchanged from May, the U.S. rate was 4.9% in June. New York’s statewide unemployment rate continues at its lowest level since August 2007.

A Delaware county man was killed in an accident Sunday, when a deer hit by one vehicle on state route 30, ricocheted into another car. 49 year old John Peters of Roxbury was a passenger in a vehicle driven by 35 year old Renee Wojciechowski, Investigators reported that the deer was first hit by a vehicle driven by 58 year old Susan Greene of Denver New York, it then bounced off the Greene vehicle, and hit Peters, who died a few hours later at Albany Medical Center from injuries sustained in the accident. Wojciechowski & 2 other passengers were injured by broken glass, Greene & her 2 passengers were not injured.

Attorney General Eric Schneiderman today announced that his office has filed a lawsuit against a Binghamton-area woman for allegedly pocketing a portion of proceeds raised via a GoFundMe.com charitable campaign. Meghan Terry, of Endicott, NY, began a GoFundMe fundraising campaign last year to raise money for a scholarship fund established in the name of Collin Murray, a Binghamton area resident who tragically died in 2015 while attending SUNY Brockport. The lawsuit alleges that Ms. Terry raised almost $2,600, after expenses, but only turned over $1,330 for the scholarship fund.

State Police arrested 32 year old Jeremy Litchko of Kirkwood for Public Lewdness and Disorderly Conduct, following a complaint of the suspect acting disorderly on County Route 35 in the Town of Guilford. Litchko was arraigned at the Town of Guilford Court and remanded to the Chenango County Jail on bail.

As part of the "Get Screened, No Excuses" campaign, Governor Cuomo signed legislation to increase access to breast cancer screenings and build on the series of breast cancer initiatives outlined in the 2016 State of the State address. The new initiatives include mobile mammography vans, patient navigators, a public awareness campaign, community-based peer education programs, and investments through the state-backed venture capital fund to support promising cancer-related technologies. The Governor also announced the launch of a new "Text Line" to help women find mammogram locations. New Yorkers can text "Get Screened" to 81336 and after submitting their zip code; they will receive information about screening locations with extended hours near home.

State Senator Jim Seward announced that community libraries throughout the 51st senatorial district have been awarded a total of $235,613 in public library construction grant funds. Locally, the Kinney Memorial Library in Hartwick will receive $25,035 to Replace old windows and add insulation, the Unadilla Public Library will receive $35,475 to Replace inefficient windows and light fixtures and interior renovations, the Village Library of Cooperstown will receive $23,327 for Interior renovations & the Worcester Free Library will get $23,606 for insulation.

The 1st phase of the $50 Million Dollar restoration if the New York State fairgrounds are nearly complete, with the final touches being applied in the final months before the annual state fair. The 1-mile track & the grandstand are gone, in their place is an expanded midway, and a bigger RV park with 315 more spaces, 2/3rds are already booked for this year's fair, which begins on August 25th.

New York’s highways & bridges are among the worst in the nation, according to a new report by “TRIP”, which is a national transportation organization. 5% of the states interstate bridges are structurally deficient, 4th worst in the nation, 17% 0of the pavement on the New York interstate system is in poor to mediocre condition, which is 10th worst in the nation. President Obama signed into law a 5 year 305 billion dollar highway improvement plan last year, which will boost highway funding by 15% and transit funding by 15% by the year 2020.

Governor Cuomo announced a new consumer hotline to accept reports of “ZOMBIE PROPERTIES” across the state. New Yorkers Are Encouraged to Call (800) 342-3736 to Report Properties in Their Neighborhoods, following last week's signing of legislation to get Zombie properties rehabilitated or renovated, sold and back onto the tax rolls in a more timely fashion.

Attorney General Eric Schneiderman today announced New York State's participation in partial settlements with Volkswagen and its Audi and Porsche affiliates arising from Volkswagen's violations of emissions standards and state consumer protection laws. As part of the settlements, all owners of 2.0 liter, 4-cylinder engine VW and Audi diesel cars in New York will be entitled to be paid full, pre-scandal fair market value for their vehicle, in addition to a cash payment of at least $5,100, car owners may also choose to keep their vehicle and wait to see if VW and Audi develop acceptable emissions fixes; car owners who exercise this option will also receive a cash payment of at least $5,100. The settlements will also direct to New York over $115 million for environmental projects to improve New York's air quality, as well as over $30 million in additional monetary recoveries for the state's general fund.

Otsego County District Attorney John Muehl announced that 50 year old Casey Callahan was arrested Monday on a sealed indictment warrant for 2nd degree Murder for the killing his wife Elizabeth on January 19th, 2000, by allegedly running her over with a tractor trailer in a parking lot in Athens Township Pennsylvania. Muehl stated that the murder was planned out when Callahan & his wife lived at Goodyear Lake; Callahan is s currently serving a 12-½ year sentence for a criminal sexual act conviction from 3 years ago. Callahan was arraigned and was returned to the Attica Correctional Facility. Callahan faces 25 years to life in prison.

State Police arrested 32-year-old Joseph Little of Sidney Aggravated DWI with a BAC result of .20%, and other traffic violations. Little was observed failing to use a designated lane on State Route 7 in the Town of Unadilla, he was arraigned in the Town of Unadilla court and was remanded to the Otsego County jail on $500 cash bail or $1,000 property bond pending future court action.

The Delaware County Board of Elections reminds county registered voters affiliated with the republican or democratic parties, that Primary Elections are today, from 12:00 Noon to 9:00 PM. Both Democrats & Republicans are holding a Primary for the 19th Congressional District. All Tompkins voters will now vote at the Tompkins Town Hall at 148 Bridge St., Trout Creek. More information is available at 832-5321. Attorney General Eric Schneiderman reminds voters that a hotline has been set up for those experiencing trouble in the polling place, the number is 800-771-7755.

The State Public Service Commission adopted a 3-year electric and gas rate plans for NYSEG & Rochester Gas and Electric Corporation. Effective July 1 of this year through April 30, 2019, typical residential electric customers in NYSEG’s service territory will see a monthly delivery charge increase of approximately $2.20 in the first year with increases of $1.76 and $1.79, respectively, in the second and third years. Under the company’s proposal, in rate year one, typical residential customers would have experienced an increase in delivery charges of $8.79 per month. Typical residential gas customers in NYSEG’s service territory will see a monthly delivery charge increase of approximately $1.35, $4.01, and $4.21 in rate year one, two and three, respectively.

The statewide unemployment rate decreased from 4.9% to 4.7% in May 2016. This represented the state’s lowest unemployment rate since August 2007. New York’s unemployment rate was equal to the U.S. rate in May 2016. In addition, the number of unemployed New Yorkers also decreased over the month – falling from 476,600 in April to 461,800 in May 2016, reaching its lowest level since October 2007. New York State's private sector job count declined by 19,600, or 0.2%, in May 2016. About half of the state's private sector job losses in May were temporary, due to a strike in the telecommunications industry. Since the beginning of Governor Andrew M. Cuomo’s administration, New York State’s economy has added 794,700 private sector jobs and experienced employment growth in 56 of the past 65 months.

Governor Cuomo announced the launch of coordinated sweeps during the summer concert season and at other underage hotspots as part of ongoing efforts to deter underage drinking and prevent the use of fake IDs. The enforcement sweeps will occur unannounced at various concert venues and will be carried out by the DMV, the State Liquor Authority, State Park Police, State Police, and local law enforcement agencies. Patrons under the age of 21 found to be using fake IDs or false documents with the intent of purchasing alcohol can be arrested and have their license revoked for a minimum of 90 days or up to one year.

The State Lawmakers are wrapping up their work for the 2016 session, this year's Budget contains highway funding going to individual municipalities this year through "Pave NY", for them to take care of various road repairs after the winter months. Area Assemblyman Bill Magee explains:

(Magee 6-16-16)

Magee said that there was also extra money sent to area school district and agricultural programs in the final version of the budget passed on April 1st.

Attorney General Eric Schneiderman reminded New Yorkers of common scams that occur during the summer, targeting consumers embarking on home improvement projects or planning family vacations. The Attorney General urged New Yorkers to notify his office If they have been targeted or victimized by these scams, through the Consumer Complaint Hotline at 1-800- 771-7755 or online at ag.ny.gov.

The Town Of Unadilla Board meeting originally scheduled for Tuesday, will be held tonight. the monthly Town Board Meeting has been rescheduled for Tongiht at 6:30 PM at the Town Hall, on State Route 7.

Overdose deaths related to heroin and prescription opioid abuse reached record highs in New York State in 2014, according to a report issued today by State Comptroller Tom DiNapoli. DiNapoli’s report noted heroin overdose deaths reached a record high of 825 in 2014, a jump of 159 deaths, or 24% over 2013, and is nearly 25 times the number recorded in New York 10 years earlier. Only Massachusetts had more heroin overdose deaths, & only Connecticut had more prescription opioid deaths than New York.

Attorney general Eric Schneiderman is asking Charter Communications to fix the service problems of the state’s Time Warner Cable subscribers following their recent acquisition.   Schneiderman reported that his office’s investigation has shown Time Warner’s actual internet speeds can be lower than advertised and that they failed to keep up with customer demand, leading to congestion and lost data. Officials with Charter stated that they have made significant investments in its infrastructure already and will continue to do so.

State Police arrested 53-year-old Deborah Perkins of Oneonta, for operating a motor vehicle while impaired by drugs and unlawful possession of marihuana. The arrest occurred after a trooper responded to a report of a motor vehicle driving off the roadway on State Route 28 in the Town of Otsego.   Perkins is accused of driving while impaired by drugs when she crashed; Perkins faces court action on June 16th.

Governor Cuomo announced $10 million has been awarded for airport capital project improvements across the State. This funding from the Governor’s Aviation Capital Grant Program will support safety, infrastructure, and economic development projects across the State. The Sidney Municipal Airport, will receive $675,000 for the Construction of a New Conventional Hangar

Lieutenant Governor Kathy Hochul will visit Cooperstown today. at 10:30 AM Hochul Highlights Upstate Tourism at the National Baseball Hall of Fame, at 11:00 AM she Meets with Small Business Owners in Cooperstown & at 12:00 PM Hochul will be at the Otesaga Hotel where she will speak at the Mohawk Valley Regional Small Business/Workforce Development Summit.

The American Red Cross will host a blood drive today in Walton from 11:30 AM to 5:30 PM at the United Presbyterian Church at 58 East Street. Appointments can be made at the American Red Cross Blood Donor App at redcrossblood.org or 1-800-RED CROSS.

State Attorney General Eric Schneiderman announced today by the Consumer Product Safety Commission instituted a national recall of “Cra-Z-Art” children’s products, which contain high levels of lead. Schneiderman said that his office had discovered high lead levels in parts of several children’s Cra-Z-Art products, which were supplied by LaRose Industries to retailers such as K-Mart, Target, and Toys-R-Us stores. Wristbands associated with several Cra-Z-Art children’s products contained lead at levels of 120 to 980 parts per million, about 10 times the legal limit.

New York lawmakers have forwarded legislation to regulate daily fantasy sports, which could enable thousands of people to resume playing through FanDuel & Draft Kings. Committees in the state Senate and Assembly advanced bills this week that detail proposed registration fees for commercial operators and prohibitions against minors playing through those sites. Both FanDuel and Draft Kings, agreed in March to stop taking bets in New York as lawmakers considered legalizing the popular online contests, State Attorney General Eric Schneiderman sued to stop them, saying they offered illegal gambling under New York State Law.

SUNY Chancellor Nancy Zimpher announced that she is stepping down next year, after serving 7 years as the head of the SUNY system. Zimpher will officially leave the position on June 30th, 2017; she stated that she would continue to work in some capacity in education.

The American Red Cross urges blood donors to ensure blood is available for patients all summer long, a blood donation opportunity is scheduled for today from 8:30 AM to 2:30 PM at the DCMO BOCES in Trout Creek, appointments can be made by a download of the Red Cross Blood Donor App, at redcrossblood.org or call 1-800-RED CROSS.

Hundreds attended the dedication ceremony Saturday morning for the Sidney Veterans Memorial Park. Association member & Retired Army member Dane Woytek comments:

(Dane Woytek 5-31-16)

Assemblyman Cliff Crouch attended the ceremony & spoke to the crowd:

(Crouch 5-31-16)

Congressman Chris Gibson told WCDO News he was proud of the finished park, as both the congressional representative for the area, and as a retired Army Veteran.

(Gibson 5-31-16)

Others who spoke at the ceremony Saturday, Sidney Mayor Andy Matviak, US Air Force Brigadier General James McIntyre, & Brigadier General Peter Palmer, who is a Sidney High School Graduate originally from Masonville.

Governor Cuomo visited the State Correction Officer Monday, who was injured by an exploding package left by his mailbox Sunday morning in Oneida County. The 52-year-old officer is in critical condition, & the FBI is investigating to see if the explosion was related to the victim's job in the prison system & they are investigating the level of sophistication of the explosive.

The State DOT announced that construction work for the Prospect Mountain construction project will be performed and will require lane closures in Binghamton, today from 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM. Traffic will be reduced to 1 lane for concrete median barrier work at State Route 17 eastbound between Exit 70 Johnson City and Exit 72 Binghamton & State Route 17 westbound between Exit 72 Prospect Street and Exit 71 Airport Road.

THE 54TH GENERAL CLINTON CANOE REGATTA WAS HELD OVER THE MEMORIAL DAY WEEKEND:
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CANADIANS Guilame BLAIS AND MATTHEW PELLERIN FROM QUEBEC WON THIS YEAR’S TWO-PERSON PRO RACE. THEY BEAT 2ND PLACE FINISHERS, MATT RUDNITSKY FROM GILBERTSVILLE AND HIS PARTNER, 7 TIME REGATTA WINNER, STEVE LAJOIE BY JUST 68 SECONDS. PELLERIN TOLD WCDO IT FELT GOOD TO WIN THIS YEAR’S CLINTON REGATTA…

(REGATTA 2016-MATTHEW PELLERIN)

IN THE STILL “NEW” 4 PERSON CLASS, A LOCAL TEAM TOOK TOP HONORS. JEFF SHULTIS FROM OTEGO, ALLEN NICHOLS FROM LAURENS, LARRY HARRISON AND BOB WISSY FROM ONEONTA. HARRISON TALKED ABOUT THEIR TEAM….

(REGATTA 2016-LARRY HARRISON)

AFTER A 12-YEAR LAYOFF FROM RACING THE GENERAL CLINTON CANOE REGATTA, 36 TIME FINISHER BOB ZAVERAL TOOK TO THE WATER WITH HIS 23 YEAR OLD SON, RYAN FOR HIS VERY FIRST GENERAL CLINTON 70 MILE CANOE RACE. THEY WON THE MENS UNDER 50 YEARS OF AGE DIVISION. RYAN SPOKE WITH CRAIG STEVENS ABOUT THE RACE….

(REGATTA 2016-RYAN ZAVERAL)

WCDO’S SPORTS DIRECTOR NATE LULL AND HIS PARTNER, BRETT SHERWOOD OF MORRIS TOOK TOP HONORS IN THE MENS RECREATION CLASS. IT WAS THE FIRST REGATTA VICTORY FOR BOTH PADDLERS. NATE SPOKE WITH CRAIG STEVENS….

(REGATTA 2016-NATE LULL)

RACERS FROM 27 STATES AND 5 CANDIAN PROVINCES COMPETED DURING THE 4-DAY REGATTA

IN THE 70 MILE ONE MAN PRO RACE ON MONDAY, MICHIGAN’S NICK WALTON TOOK TOP HONORS FOR THE 3RD TIME IN 5 YEARS. WALTON SPOKE WITH WCDO’S CRAIG STEVENS AFTER THE RACE….

(REGATTA 2016-NICK WALTON)

IN THE STOCK ALUMINUM 70-MILE RACE, Brothers BILL AND BRIAN WALLEY FROM WALTON CAME IN FIRST WITH A TIME OF 9 HOURS 36 MINUTES AND 53 SECONDS. THIS WAS THEIR 3RD STRAIGHT VICTORY. CRAIG SPOKE WITH THE WALLEY BROTHERS AT THE FINISH LINE….

(REGATTA 2016-WALLEY BROTHERS)

THIS YEAR’S REGATTA FEATURED PADDLERS FROM 27 STATES AND 5 CANADIAN PROVINCES. NEARLY A THOUSAND PADDDLERS COMPETED OVER THE 4 DAY REGATTA.

Approximately 1000 paddlers participated in the 54th General Clinton Canoe Regatta this Memorial Day weekend
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Long time Paddler Joe Shaw of Massachusetts won the 70-mile kayak endurance race & Spoke to WCDO's Craig Stevens about the race:

(Regatta 2016-Joe Shaw)

Craig also spoke with Bryan & Rob Birdsall of Unadilla, the brothers took top honors in the Men’s NYMCRA Stock Endurance race:

(Regatta 2016-Birdsalls)

The 2016 General Clinton Canoe Regatta Pro race was won by Canadians Mathew Pellerin & Guillaume Blaise for the 2nd time in 3 years, WCDO’s Craig Stevens spoke with the winners after the race:

(Regatta 2016 Pro winners)

The Pair beat 2nd place finishers Matt Rudnitsky of Gilbertsville and 7-time Regatta Winner Steve Lajoie by 68 seconds. Local Paddlers Trevor Lefever & Ben Schlimmer of Oneonta took 3rd in the pro race.
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
Paddlers from 27 States & 5 Canadian Provinces participated in this year’s regatta.

A new Siena Poll out Today shows that 60% of New Yorkers believe Governor Cuomo is an ethical public official. Cuomo’s top aide Joe Percoco and lobbyist Todd Howe are both under investigation currently with possible corruption involving the Governor’s Buffalo Billion Development plan. The poll also found that more than half of voters have the most trust in Attorney General Eric Schneiderman. The Siena Poll surveyed 825 registered New York voters, and had a margin of error of 3.9 percentage points.

The Vestal Police Department has identified the victim of a fatal crash early Friday morning. 56-year-old Paul Rymer of Owego was killed in a crash at about 4:00 AM on Route 17 in Vestal. Vestal Police & State Police reported that a tractor-trailer driven by 54-year-old Jacek Swiston of Vestal, attempted to make a U-turn through the median from the westbound lanes, when he pulled into the path Rymer’s pickup truck, which struck the trailer. Rymer was killed instantly. The investigation is continuing by the Broome County District Attorney’s office.

The annual American Cancer Society Tri-Town Relay for Life is scheduled for Saturday May 14th this year at General Clinton Park in Bainbridge. Organizer Helen Gregory comments:

(Helen Gregory 4-27-16)

All the money raised will stay local for American Cancer society functions such as research, education, patient advocacy programs, also May 6th will be the annual "Paint the Town Purple" event. More information is available at relay for life.org/tritownny.

The Jericho Arts council & the Bainbridge Chamber of Commerce are once agha9nt teaming up for the Bainbridge Art Trail Regatta Row 2016. Canoe Paddle chairs that have been customized by area artists will once again be displayed & auctioned off, General Clinton Canoe Regatta Chairman John Harmon explains:

(John Harmon 4-27-16)

The Adirondack style chairs are our on display today & Will be prominently featured this Saturday for the Street Art Fest Saturday from 6:00 to 8:00 pm along Main Street and Route 206 in Bainbridge, more information is available at jerichoarts.com.

Governor Cuomo today announced New York State has begun sharing Prescription Monitoring Program information with New Jersey to prevent the stockpiling and resale of dangerous controlled substances and to help fight the abuse of prescription drugs. New York and New Jersey are using the National Association of Boards of Pharmacy InterConnect hub, which allows them to securely share their prescription data with authorized requestors from other states in the hub, which provides practitioners and pharmacists with a patient's recent controlled substance prescription information. New York began sharing the records with New Jersey on April 14th, in 8 days; over 16,000 controlled substance records have been requested, with over 12,000 of those requests coming from New York to New Jersey.

Attorney General Eric Schneiderman today announced that New York, and other States, reached an agreement to settle allegations against Wyeth, & Pfizer, to resolve allegations that Wyeth knowingly underpaid rebates owed under the Medicaid Drug Rebate Program for the sales of Protonix Oral and Protonix IV between 2001 and 2006. Wyeth agreed to pay $784.6 million to the United States and the States. About $93.7 million of the settlement will resolve claims relating to New York’s Medicaid program, with the state receiving $55.6 million and the Federal government receiving $38.1 million.

State Police arrested 21 year old Thunder Libke of Coventry for obstruction of governmental administration and 2 counts of 2nd degree harassment, after troopers responded to a Chenango County 911 report of disorderly conduct on North Road, in the town of Coventry. The first trooper on scene saw Libke and another man arguing, Libke became aggressive towards the trooper, and attempted to strike him. Libke was arraigned in Town of Afton court and was remanded to the Chenango County jail on $2,500 cash bail or $5,000 property bond.

State Police arrested 34 year old Corey Maraglio of Oneonta, for criminal mischief, resisting arrest and disorderly conduct, after he jumped into the passenger seat of a state troopers vehicle at a gas station, He appeared to be in a drug induced state and refused to get out of the patrol vehicle. Maraglio did get out, the trooper handcuffed him, placed him in the front seat, and Maraglio became aggressive and struck his head twice on the patrol vehicle computer screen breaking it. Additional troopers responded, Maraglio was transported to Fox Hospital, he had no injuries, he was arraigned in the Town of Oneonta court and was remanded to the Otsego County jail in lieu of $3,000 cash bail or $6,000 property bond, pending future court action

Attorney General Eric Schneiderman today announced a major agreement with 7 health insurance companies to revise their coverage policies for chronic Hepatitis C treatment. The agreement means that nearly all commercial health insurance plans in New York State will cover treatment for chronic Hepatitis C without requiring members to develop advanced stages of the disease with liver scarring, and will not deny coverage because the member uses alcohol or drugs, or because the authorizing physician is not a specialist.

6 individuals will be inducted into the General Clinton Canoe Regatta Hall of Fame this year, during the 54th annual Regatta, The paddlers being inducted are Armond Bassett, Bob Allen, Jim Jordan & Al Rudquist & the "Pit Crew" inductees are Dale Fox & Dean Oliver, both of Bainbridge. Regatta Chairman John Harmon comments:

(John Harmon 4-21-16)

The induction ceremony will be held on Saturday May 28th under the tent in General Clinton Park in Bainbridge.

Chapter 200 of the Disabled American Veterans is seeking donations for the purchase of their next van to take area veterans to the VA Hospital in Albany, and they are also seeking volunteer drivers to drive their van. Service Officer Ernest Thompson of Chapter 200 explains:

(Ernest Thompson 4-21-16)

Those seeking more information about donating or volunteering can call 764-8134 or log on to DAV.Org.

Governor Cuomo today announced that the New York State Department of Taxation and Finance stopped more than 239,000 suspicious refund claims during the income tax season. As a result, the Department saved taxpayers $400 million—an increase of 18 percent over the same time period last year. Taxpayers who suspect that an individual or business is committing tax fraud can confidentially report it online or by phone at 518-457-0578.

The rock group Toto will play at the Chevy Court stage at the Great New York State Fair on Friday, August 26th at 8:00 PM. Toto has had a string of hits in the 70’s through early 90’s, other acts scheduled to appear during the state fair include Bruce Hornsby, Air Supply, Herman's Hermits, Survivor, The Commodores, Culture Club, & Chicago.

Spring turkey season opens May 1 in all of upstate counties and the DEC's 13th annual youth turkey-hunting weekend is this weekend. The youth turkey hunt for junior hunters ages 12-15 is open in all of upstate New York and across Suffolk County. More information about turkey hunting in New York, is available at the DEC's website at dec.ny.gov.

Attorney General Eric Schneiderman received more than one thousand complaints regarding improprieties in the course of the Primary day elections. Schneiderman said that his office has opened an investigation into the voting problems reported by the New York City Board of Elections. Inquiries may also occur in additional areas of the State where voting irregularities appeared unusually high.

State Attorney General Eric Schneiderman reminded voters today that his office has created a Hotline to help troubleshoot and resolve a range of issues and barriers encountered by voters at the polls for the primary today. The Attorney General urges voters experiencing problems or issues at the polls to call the office's hotline at 800-771-7755 or email civil.rights@ag.ny.gov through 9:00 PM tonight. Locally, polls close at 9:00 PM.

The State’s seasonally adjusted unemployment rate was unchanged at 4.8% in March. Locally, unemployment was at 5.7% in Chenango County, 6% in Delaware County & 5.1% in Otsego County, according to statistics released today by the State Department of Labor.

The Unadilla Valley Central School District saved more than $300,000 in special education costs over a two-year period, according to an audit issued today by State Comptroller Tom DiNapoli. After the DCMO BOCES discontinued 2 special education service classes housed in Unadilla Valley schools, the district began operating these classes to provide special education services using district staff, the district implemented a third special education class, started accepting students from outside the district, and expanded its special education programs to include related services such as occupational and speech therapies. The audit can be accessed at osc.state.ny.us.

Today is primary day in New York State. Republicans are choosing between Donald Trump, Ted Cruz & John Kasich, Democrats are choosing between Bernie Sanders & Hillary Clinton. Polls are open from 12 p.m. to 9 p.m.

The Unadilla Chamber of Commerce will have its next regular meeting today at Green's Long River Inn, on State Route 357. The meeting will begin at 8:15 AM. All members and directors are urged to attend.

Governor Cuomo today launched the "No Empty Chair" teen driving safety education and enforcement campaign to raise awareness of highway dangers during prom and graduation season. State and local law enforcement will participate in the week-long, multi-agency campaign starting today through this Friday. The campaign will target specific infractions throughout the week, including Speeding in school zones, Seatbelts and child restraints, Cell phone use and texting, school bus safety & Underage drinking and impaired driving.

State Police arrested 28 year old Bryon Hoblin of Afton for 3rd degree Assault & endangering the welfare of a child. Troopers responded to a Chenango County 911 report of a father and son physical dispute at Algerine Street in the Town of Afton, Hoblin allegedly punched his father in the face and knocked him out, while a child was watching. Hoblin was arraigned in the Town of Afton Court, where he pled guilty and was sentenced to 6 months at the Chenango County jail.

State Attorney General Eric Schneiderman announced that his office has created a Hotline to help resolve a range of issues encountered by voters at the polls for the primary on Tuesday. Voters experiencing problems can call the office’s hotline at 800-771-7755 or email civil.rights@ag.ny.gov at any time between 6 a.m. and 9 p.m.

Commerce Chenango will hold a Legislative Luncheon with Senator Fred Akshar today, at Fred's Inn, on State Route 12 Norwich. Registration is from 12:00 to 12:30, The Lunch and Program runs from 12:30 to 2:00 p.m.

Oneonta Police, State Police BCI, State University Police at Oneonta and the Delaware County Sheriff’s Department with K9 Ozzie, served a search warrant at 9-11 Elm Street in Oneonta Thursday. Police seized marijuana, prescription medication and $4,000 cash, they arrested 21 year old Glen Carey, from Malverne, 21 year old Gregory Garcia of Franklin Square, 21 year old Nicholas Monaco of Nyack for Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance. the 3 are accused of possessing Xanax Pills, Marijuana, counterfeit $50 bills, they were being held pending arraignment in the City of Oneonta Court.

The General Clinton Canoe Regatta will be held over the Memorial Day Weekend in May again this year, with paddlers coming from all over the participate. Regatta Chairman John Harmon told WCDO News that there are a few new features this year:

(John Harmon 4-15-16)

Harmon said there will be plenty of action at General Clinton Park over all 4 days of the weekend, including the Midway, the Dundee Ales & Lagers music festival on Sunday & the 70 mile endurance races on Monday from Cooperstown to Bainbridge.

The Delaware County Home and Garden Show will be held on Saturday, May 14, at the American Legion Hall in Delhi. This annual event is hosted by the Delaware County Chamber of Commerce and sponsors include Curtis Lumber, NBT-Mang Insurance, and Delaware County Economic Development. Exhibitor space is $100 for Chamber members and $150 for not-yet members. Contact the Chamber at 607-746-2281 or email RPucci@DelawareCounty.org for registration information.

State Senator Jim Seward disclosed that he was diagnosed with bladder cancer earlier this year at Bassett Healthcare in Cooperstown. Seward successfully underwent surgery on Wednesday at Albany Medical Center, the cancer was found in its earliest stages, is completely curable, and a complete recovery in anticipated. Seward will miss some senate activities, but is expected to be back up to full speed in a matter of weeks; his staff will keep full office hours & assist constituents as needed.

Attorney General Eric Schneiderman announced a lawsuit against CDPHP, for unlawfully restricting coverage of treatment for chronic Hepatitis C infection, The lawsuit alleges that CDPHP denied coverage for such treatment unless the member demonstrated advanced symptoms of the disease, such as moderate to severe liver scarring.

Governor Cuomo signed legislation authorizing competitive mixed martial arts in New York State. the Ultimate Fighting Championship announced that it will host a major Pay-Per-View event at Madison Square Garden on Saturday, November 12th. The UFC will be adding another live event in Upstate New York before the end of the year.

The New York State Office of Alcoholism and Substance Abuse Services announced a new, multi-year program to train counseling professionals to better enable them to deliver treatment for those with gambling addictions. Many individuals seek private practitioners for help to address problem gambling and this new training program ensures that private practitioners are knowledgeable about problem gambling and will increase access to treatment and support services. New Yorkers struggling with problem gambling, can find help and hope by calling the State’s HOPEline at 1-877-8-HOPENY .

Governor Cuomo today announced New York state parks, historic sites and campgrounds hosted another successful season, with 65.3 million estimated visits in 2015. Park attendance increased 5% from 2014 to 2015, it was boosted by a variety of factors, including national exposure for Letchworth and Watkins Glen State Parks, which were ranked first and third best state parks in the nation by USA Today; and favorable weather throughout the summer and late into the fall.

Attorney General Eric Schneiderman joined the Federal Trade Commission, the other 49 states, and the District of Columbia in announcing the successful conclusion of the largest multistate charity fraud action to date. 2 nationwide sham cancer charities are being dissolved and their president is banned from profiting from any charity fundraising in the future. Cancer Fund of America and Cancer Support Services and their leader, James Reynolds, claimed to help cancer patients, but instead, the majority of donations benefited the operators, their families and friends, and employee fundraisers. The complaint was filed in May 2015, targeting 4 sham charities run by Reynolds, which bilked more than $187 million from donors, including nearly $3 million in New York State.

The deadline to apply for scholarships for Sidney High School Seniors is this Sunday, Tracy Young is part of the Sidney Dollars for Scholars program:

(Tracy Young 3-30-16)

The Website to make the profiles & apply for scholarships is scholarshipamerica.org.

The state learned that hundreds of faulty bolts were discovered within the reactor at the Indian Point Unit 2 Plant, the latest in a series of incidents that raise concerns about the management, maintenance and equipment standards at the plant. Governor Cuomo stated that there was no immediate danger to public health and safety, but the Governor said that he believes that the plant should NOT be re-licensed.

New York State’s unemployment rate dropped 1/10th to 4.8% in February. Locally, Chenango County's rate was 5.8%, Delaware County at 6.5% and Otsego County at 5.6%.

Former New York state Assembly speaker Sheldon Silver was disbarred Tuesday by the Appellate Division of the state Supreme Court in Manhattan. Silver was convicted for abusing his power while serving as Speaker of the State Assembly from 1994 until last year. He faces sentencing in a couple of weeks.

Classes at Cooperstown Public Schools were cancelled today following the reported death of Superintendent C.J. Hebert, in an ATV accident on Sunday. State Police reported that at 11:47 PM, State Police responded to a private residence in the Town of Richmondville for a report of a subject who was overdue from an ATV outing. A search consisting of State Police patrols, State Forest Rangers and the Schoharie County Search and Rescue Team, Hebert was found at about 3:00 AM, deceased in a heavily wooded area from an apparent ATV accident.

State Attorney General Eric Schneiderman issued a statement following an agreement with FanDuel and DraftKings. Schneiderman said that both FanDuel and DraftKings would stop taking bets in New York State, consistent with New York State law. Today's agreement also creates an expedited path to resolve this litigation should that law change or upon a decision by the appellate division. The investigation into false advertising & consumer fraud are ongoing.

On Saturday at approximately 4:40am, Delaware County Sheriff’s Deputies arrested 24-year-old Daniel McGraw of Hancock New York, for driving while intoxicated following a report of a motor vehicle accident at the intersection of State Highway 268 and State Highway 10 in the Town of Tompkins. Deputies say McGraw failed to stop for a stop sign at that location which caused his vehicle to exit the roadway and collide into an earth embankment. McGraw was additionally charged with failure to stop for a stop sign as well as moving from lane unsafely and was later released on tickets returnable to Tompkins Town Court at a later date.

New York State will allow Mixed Martial Arts bouts to be held in the state shortly. Area Assemblyman Cliff Crouch comments:

(Cliff Crouch 3-21-16)

Conference committee work continues to be done in Albany s lawmakers expect to get the budget passed on time against his year.

Congressman Richard Hanna announced that a new farmers Program is available with the deadline to apply on March 31. Farmer in New York state who have been farming for at least 3 years are eligible through the Cornell Small Farms Program's New Farmer Profit Teams to provide decision making support to advanced beginning farmers as they make changes to improve the long term viability and profitability of their businesses. More information is available at 607-255-9911 or mw84@cornell.edu.

Dr. Betty Rosa of the Bronx has been chosen as the new Chancellor of the state Board of Regents today. Rosa was elected this morning, she succeeds longtime Regents member and Chancellor Merryl Tisch, whose tenure became problematic with the controversial roll out of the Common Core in New York State, Dr. Rosa has been an opponent of the Common Core curriculum, encouraging parents to have their children opt out of those tests in the past.

Governor Cuomo announced an unprecedented surge in last-minute online voter registration activity, prior to the New York State presidential primary. Between March 10th & March 20th MyDMV, the state's online voter registration system, processed more than 40,883 voter registration applications, including 20,889 from first-time voters. MyDMV also set an all-time record on Friday, March 18th with 13,961 voter registration applications received, including 7,128 from first-time voters. New Yorkers must register by March 25th in order to cast ballots in the upcoming presidential primaries on April 19th.

Attorney General Eric Schneiderman reported that Yahoo Daily Fantasy Sports announced that they will follow New York State Law and will stop taking bets from New Yorkers on sporting events. The announcement follows Monday's agreement with FanDuel and DraftKings to follow New York's gambling laws.

State Police arrested 21-year-old William Holden of Bainbridge for felony criminal contempt and 3rd degree Assault. The arrest occurred after troopers were advised of a dispute that happened in a vehicle on State Route 206 in the Town of Bainbridge, where Holden allegedly struck the victim in the face causing an injury. Holden violated a court order of protection; he was arraigned in the Town of Bainbridge court and was remanded to the Chenango County jail in lieu of $2,500 cash bail or $5,000 property bond.

Governor Cuomo today directed the State Department of Health to expand free Zika virus testing to all pregnant women who, during their pregnancy, had unprotected sex with a partner who traveled to an area with ongoing Zika virus transmission. This expansion comes as the Department is investigating 1 case of possible sexual transmission of the Zika virus, and the federal Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has published reports of increasing numbers of confirmed and probable sexual transmission of Zika virus, including several involving pregnant women. To date The State Lab at the Wadsworth Center in Albany has conducted tests on samples from more than 1,400 patients and 40 have been found to be positive, those infected patients have been returning travelers from countries where Zika virus is ongoing.

Lawmakers will be looking to restore cuts to the state budget by the Governor for Agricultural programs, Local Assemblyman & Assembly Agriculture Committee Chairman Bill Magee comments:

(Magee 3-9-16)

Magee said that both houses will send their proposed budgets out fro printing on Friday, conference committees should get started negotiating next week & the budget should be completed by the April 1st deadline again this year.

Attorney General Eric Schneiderman issued a consumer alert today for National Consumer Protection Week, reminding New Yorkers to protect themselves against recurring government “imposter” phone scams. These scams often target seniors, students, and first-generation Americans. Recent scams include callers posing as a representative from the Attorney General’s office, the IRS, or as officers of the court regarding alleged missed Jury Duty & the threat of arrest or other penalties. Schneiderman said that New Yorkers should also report instances of fraud to ag.ny.gov or 1-800-771-7755.

The New York State Senate today passed a resolution honoring Mike Piazza for his impending induction into the National Baseball Hall of fame this summer. Piazza will be inducted with a New York Mets cap on his plaque, for his 7 1/2 years as a member of the team, which won the National League championship in 2000. Piazza spent part of Tuesday at the National Baseball Hall of Fame & Museum at Cooperstown before visiting the state Capital today. A copy of the resolution can be found at nysenate.gov/legislation/resolutions.

The "YES LEADS" program will hold a joint Heroin Awareness Night between Afton and Bainbridge-Guilford High Schools at the BG District today. The program will feature State Senator Fred Akshar, State Police, Chenango County Sheriff, Chenango County District Attorney, Chenango County Alcohol & Drug Abuse Services, Southern Tier AIDS Program & Recovering Addicts, The event is today starting with a free pizza dinner at 5:30, & the program begins at 6:00 PM.

Governor Cuomo announced that $2.4 million has been distributed to 100 organizations that provide employment services to individuals with disabilities via the New York State Employment Services System. This funding is part of the Governor’s Employment First Initiative to increase employment opportunities for individuals with disabilities, decrease the poverty rate of those with disabilities; and encourage businesses to establish formal policies to hire people with disabilities.

State Police responded to a Broome County 911 report of shots fired in the area of 117 Glenwood Road in the Town of Dickinson near the Binghamton City Line early Thursday Monring. 2 people were in a vehicle heading south on Glenwood Road when a suspect fired 5 or 6 shots at their vehicle, the driver attempted to leave quickly but struck several parked vehicles and came to rest in the middle of the roadway. No injuries were received. Troopers from the Special Operations Response Team have not located the shooter, the road is re-opened to traffic. State Police were assisted by the Binghamton Police Department and Broome County Sheriff’s Department, the investigation is ongoing.

Attorney General Eric Schneiderman today announced the guilty plea of 56 year old Donald McManus of Apalachin, to Attempted Grand Larceny.   The plea stems from allegations that Mr. McManus pocketed $8,200 worth of the proceeds from the sale of leftover copper used as part of the East Campus dorm construction at SUNY Binghamton.  McManus is expected to be sentenced to three years of probation, to pay restitution in the amount of $8,256.59, and to not work in a construction job or in any capacity for SUNY Binghamton.

The American Red Cross will hold Blood Drives Saturday at 2 area locations. One blood drive will be from 8:00 AM To 1:00 PM At the Main Street Baptist Church at 333 Main Street in Oneonta. Another Blood drive will be from 8:00 AM to 12:00 PM At the 1st congregational Church at Bridge & Main Streets in Sidney. All Blood Types are needed; appointments can be made at RedCrossBlood.org, through the Red Cross Blood Donor App or by calling 1-800-RED CROSS.

Eclipse Winterguard will be holding a benefit Spaghetti & Meatball Dinner and Basket Raffle today at the Sidney American Legion, 22 Union Street, from 5 - 8 pm. The Fundraiser is for 4 year old Savannah who was injured in an accident on Feb 20th. Dinner is $10 per plate, all proceeds and donations will go to the family.

THE AMERICAN RED CROSS WILL HOLD A BLOOD DRIVE AT THE LAURENS HIGH SCHOOL ON 64 MAIN STREET today, from, 3:00 TO 7:00 PM. ALL BLOOD TYPES ARE NEEDED AT THIS TIME. TO MAKE AN APPOINTMENT, VISIT REDCROSSBLOOD.OR OR CALL 1-800 RED CROSS.