WCDO Radio News

P.M. NEWS WEDNESDAY 7-1-26

Over 600 NYSEG customers in Otsego County are without power today, following last Night's Storms, the Towns of Laurens & Pittsfield in Otsego County have a State of Emergency in effect due to impassable roads from downed trees & power lines. Crews are working to restore power as quickly as possible.

The totals are in for the number of teams registered for this year's Gus Macker Basketball Tournament in Downtown Norwich, organizer Tom Revoir comments:

(Tom Revoir 7-1-26)

Revoir said that those looking to volunteer or be paid referees should call the Norwich YMCA at 607-336-9622 to get involved.

Broome County Sheriff's Office announced expanded support services at the Broome County Correctional Facility through a partnership with the Addiction Center of Broome County. Sheriff Fred Akshar commented at a Press Conference this afternoon:

(Sheriff Akshar 7-1-26)

Addiction Center of Broome County Executive Director Carmela Pirich commented:

(Carmela Pirich 7-1-26)

More information about their programs on a variety of issues can be found at acbcservices.org

A.M. NEWS WEDNESDAY 7-1-26

About 480 NYSEG customers are without power this morning, following last Night's Storms, the Town of Pittsfield in Otsego County has a State of Emergency in effect due to impassable roads from downed trees & power lines.

The 29th Gus Macker Basketball Tournament will be held in July in Downtown Norwich, and organizers need referees for the courts for both days, according to organizer Tom Revoir:

(Tom Revoir 4-27-26)

The Gus Macker Norwich tournament will be July 10-12, 2026, interested referees should email trevoir@norwichymca.org

The Deposit Village Board has decided to discontinue their contract with the Broome County Sheriff's Office to have a dedicate law enforcement presence in Deposit. The move comes about 6 years after the dissolution of the Deposit Police Department. Broome County Sheriff Fred Akshar released a statement saying the\at the decision will make emergency response times in the Village unpredictable, they will respond to emergencies along with the New York State Police going forward.

The Bainbridge Fire Department will have their annual Turkey Night Fundraiser on on Saturday at the Fire House, spokesman Tom Akshar explains:

(Tom Akshar 10-6-25)

More information is available at 607-245-6978.

The Bainbridge Fire Department will have their annual Turkey Night Fundraiser on October 18th, spokesman Tom Akshar explains:

(Tom Akshar 10-6-25)

More information is available at 607-245-6978.

The Bainbridge Fire Department will have their annual Turkey Night Saturday night at the Fire House on South Main Street, starting at 7:00 PM. Bainbridge Firefighter Tom Akshar is organizing the event:

(Tom Akshar 10-18-24)

Participants can win a frozen turkey, a boneless ham & there will also be a chance to win 1 live turkey & 2 live pigs. Proceeds will go to the Bainbridge Fire Department.

The Bainbridge Fire Department will hold their annual "Turkey Night" this Saturday Night at the Bainbridge Fire House, Bainbridge Firefighter Tom Akshar is organizing the event:

(Tom Akshar 10-15-24)

Akshar said that the proceeds benefit the Bainbridge Fire Department, some of the proceeds also get passed on to other area service organizations.

P.M. NEWS WEDNESDAY 7-31-24

2 Broome County Corrections officers have been suspended without pay, following an incident of unnecessary use of force during an interaction with an incarcerated individual with suicidal pronouncements at the Broome County Correctional Facility on July 23rd. Broome County Sheriff Fred Akshar held a press conference, he said that corrections officers responded to a housing unit where an incarcerated individual was refusing to return to his cell and he was escorted to the Medical housing unit for observation, Sheriff Akshar explains:

(Sheriff Akshar 7-31-24)

Sheriff Akshar said that the officer; 39 year old James Woodard of Windsor was charged with Official Misconduct & Harassment, Both Woodard and the other unidentified officer were immediately suspended without pay while both the investigation and internal disciplinary processes continue, the case has been reported to the state’s Commission of Correction and the state’s Attorney General's office. The video of the incident can be viewed at the Broome County Sheriff's Office YouTube channel, it does contain rough language.

Local government sales tax collections totaled $5.83 billion in the second calendar quarter, an increase of 2.2%, or $127 million, compared to the same quarter last year, according to State Comptroller Tom DiNapoli. 39 of 57 of upstate counties saw an increase in collections in the quarter, the full report can be found at osc.state.ny.us

P.M. NEWS FRIDAY 6-21-24

The Deadline to register a team to play in this year's Gus Macker 3 on 3 Basketball Tournament in Norwich is this Monday June 24th, Organizer Tom Revoir told WCDO News that teams, volunteers & referees are needed:

(Tom Revoir 6-21-24)

Teams can register at Macker.com, volunteers & referees should call 607-336-9622. The Macker Tournament returns to the streets of Downtown Norwich this year on July 13th & 14th.

Broome County Sheriff Fred Akshar joined Broome County Executive Jason Garnar, and others to announce the activation of their full-time Strategic Response Group, which is comprised of a team of deputies charged with focusing on quality-of-life issues like high numbers of speeding vehicles or repeat traffic complaints; Frequent or repeated narcotic activities, property crimes; homeless persons and connecting with services; and Targeting enforcement of high crime areas with gun and gang related violence. More information is available at the Sheriff's office web page at gobroomecounty.com

A.M. NEWS Friday 6-21-24

State Police responded Sunday to 3410 Luther Street, Apartment 1 in the town of Union for a structure fire, Troopers attempted to put the house fire out utilizing fire extinguishers from their patrol vehicle, Troopers and Endwell fire members located 70-year-old Marino Panaro deceased in the entryway of the residence. Broome County Fire Investigators determined the origin of the fire to be in the area where Panaro was located, and the fire appears to be ruled accidental. An autopsy is scheduled to determine an official cause of death.

Broome County Sheriff Fred Akshar and Undersheriff Sam Davis welcomed K9 Raven to the Sheriff's Office today. K9 Raven and her partner and handler, Deputy Thomas Holden have undergone extensive training at Cedar Creek Kennels in Illinois over the past few weeks and are set to conclude their training this month. Raven is a female German Shepherd trained in tracking, protection, drug detection and other skills needed for law enforcement K-9 units.

A new survey on school safety has been released that places New York State near the bottom, ranking 45th out of 50 for overall student safety. New York ranked 1st in school safety plans, but ranked poorly for weapons in schools, exposure to illegal drugs, & for students feeling safe at school. The full report can be found at scholaroo.com.

State Comptroller Tom DiNapoli announced that New Yorkers may check to see if they are owed money by the state, as there are 49 million unclaimed funds accounts valued at $18.4 billion with funds dating back to the 1940’s. The Comptroller’s Office has an online database is located at osc.state.ny.us or by calling 1-800-221-9311.

P.M. NEWS THURSDAY 5-11-23

Delaware County Sheriff's Office announced that they are offering an online civil service exam for Corrections Officers. Qualified candidates who will be 18 years of age and who will have either a high school diploma or GED before the end of the exam submission period of June 30th, can apply for the exam until tomorrow through the Delaware County Personnel Office, the application can be found at: delcony.us.

The Broome County Sheriff’s Office announced 2 more Public Safety Town Halls taking place this month in the towns of Windsor and Vestal. Sheriff Fred Akshar, Undersheriff Sammy Davis, and other members of the Sheriff's Office will be on hand to discuss public safety issues, answer questions, The Windsor Public Safety Town Hall will take place on Tuesday, May 23rd from 6:00pm – 7:30pm at the Windsor Central High School Cafeteria, the Vestal Public Safety Town Hall will take place on Thursday, May 25, 2023 from 6:00pm – 7:30pm at the Vestal Elks Lodge on the Vestal Parkway

Governor Kathy Hochul & the State Legislature failed to pass the state budget on time Friday. Negotiations over bail reform, to-go drinks and New York City casinos stalled the completion of the budget, If the budget isn’t passed today, paychecks for state government employees will be delayed, according to state Comptroller Tom DiNapoli.

State Senator Fred Akshar was filing his petitions to run for the office of Broome County Sheriff at the Broome County Board of Elections office in Binghamton today. Akshar has collected over 3,100 signatures from registered Republicans in Broome County in support of his run for Broome County Sheriff, Akshar declined to run for re-election after serving in the State Senate for 3 terms.

P.M. NEWS MONDAY 3-7-22

State Comptroller Tom DiNapoli has directed staff to prohibit all new investments in Russian companies and to review the New York State Common Retirement Fund’s current investments and assess whether they present financial risks that warrant further restrictions or divestment. DiNapoli is also reaching out to the Fund’s investment managers to urge them to conduct a similar examination to mitigate investment risk and minimize market impact.

State Senators Peter Oberacker & Fred Akshar announced "The New York Gas Tax Relief Act" in an effort to combat the increased costs at the pump. Senator Oberacker explains:

(Oberacker 3-7-22)

Senator Oberacker said that part about sending money back to the state's Dedicated Highway and Bridge Trust Fund, follows a recent report from State Comptroller's office that just 17 cents of each dollar in the state's Dedicated Highway Bridge and Trust Fund goes toward capital projects.

Governor Kathy Hochul today announced that more than $1.65 million in goods and services have been recovered for New Yorkers who received faulty or fraudulent service from auto dealers and repair shops. The DMV Office of Vehicle Safety investigates complaints from consumers, In 2021, the agency was able to recoup refunds for 540 customers totaling more than $385,000. The DMV investigated complaints about the quality of the repair work done on customer's vehicles & were able to get those consumers $78,000 of additional repair work completed at no additional charge.

A.M. NEWS MONDAY 3-7-22

The State Health Department reported over 115,000 people tested for COVID 19 Saturday, with 1566 Positives, for a Positivity rate of 1.36%. Patient hospitalizations were down to just over 1500, with 269 Patients in ICU, 139 of them on ventilators, there were 12 New deaths reported by healthcare facilities.

Local Lawmakers gathered in Binghamton yesterday to continue to state their opposition to the controversial Bail Reform laws put into place by Former Governor Cuomo almost 2 years ago. Local Assemblyman Joe Angelino told WCDO News that the Bail reform law has removed the option for a judge to send someone arrested for a drug related crime to get help:

(Joe Angelino 12-7-21)

Yesterday, State Senator Akshar introduced legislation to make certain drug crimes bail eligible and allow courts to consider the risk of continued substance abuse when faced with defendants who have addiction issues.

The latest Siena College Poll has Governor Kathy Hochul with a big lead over her Democratic challengers in the 2022 gubernatorial race. Hochul had 36%, followed by Attorney General Letitia James with 18%, New York City Public Advocate Jumaane Williams with 10% and Congressman Tom Suozzi with 6%, tied with New York City Mayor Bill de Blasio, who is considering a bid for governor.

One Day after State Senator Fred Akshar announced that he would run for Broome County Sheriff in 2022, Binghamton Mayor Rich David announced that he would consider a run for Akshar's Senate Seat in 2022.  David has been the mayor of Binghamton for 7 years.  David becomes the first person to suggest a run at Akshar's seat; meanwhile, Akshar is challenging Broome County Sheriff Department Captain Kate Newcomb.

State Comptroller Tom DiNapoli released the latest Municipal Audits, Locally; Otsego County officials adequately assessed the impact of the pandemic on financial operations while developing estimates for revenues and expenditures in their 2021 budget.  DiNapoli's Audit of the East Meredith Fire District stated that the board did not establish adequate controls over cash receipts and disbursements, did not segregate duties or provide oversight to ensure the treasurer accurately recorded transactions.   The Audit of the Franklin-Treadwell Fire District reported that district officials had good controls over disbursements, the board did not always provide adequate oversight of the treasurer's activities & their Board of Fire Commissioners did not properly segregate duties over disbursements that could lead to

inappropriate transactions.

A.M. NEWS FRIDAY 6-4-21

Delaware County Public Health announced their weekly COVID statistics Thursday.  They had 12 new cases in the last week, with 16 active cases, 3 hospitalized & 23 in quarantine.  Delaware County has had a total of 2397 cases since the pandemic started with 47 deaths & 2334 recoveries.

The Afton Open Air Market will take place Saturday, from 9:00 AM to  3:00 PM  with free parking in the Suburban Propane Parking Lot.  50 local merchants are participating, there will be horse drawn carriage rides around Afton Lake, and a can & bottle drive to benefit the Afton area not for profit organization "HALos"

The Delhi Village Police Department responded Saturday to a report of a 44-year-old female who was unconscious and not breathing at an Elm Street residence in the Village of Delhi.  Police determined that her symptoms were consistent with an opioid overdose, they administered Narcan, EMT, arrived & transported her by ambulance to the O’Connor Hospital.  On May 25th, Delhi Village Police responded to a report of a man who had collapsed in his home on Bridge Street, police found a 69-year-old male who was exhibiting signs of an opioid overdose, & discovered that the man had recently used heroin. Officers administered Narcan and remained on scene with the patient until relieved by EMS.  Police believe that the 2 incidents were not related.

State Senator Fred Akshar released the results of his latest Community Survey.  More than half of those surveyed viewed New York's Vaccine distribution as fair to good, more than 70% have had the vaccine of plan to get it, more than 75% believe that the Governor's Emergency Powers should end very soon, 54% opposed continuing to defer rent and evictions, while support for legalizing marijuana was evenly split. The full results are available on Senator Akshar's website.

Delaware County Public Health announced a Free Rabies Vaccination Clinic For dogs, cats and ferrets on Tuesday May 18th, from 6:30PM-8:30PM at The Deposit Town Clerk’s building at 3 Elm Street; more information is available at 832-5200 or go to delawarecountypublichealth.com.

A.M. NEWS MONDAY 5-10-21

60% of New Yorkers who are 18 years of age or older have received at least one dose of the COVID-19 vaccine, with more than 1 million doses have been administered over the past seven days.  All New York State mass vaccination sites are now open to eligible New Yorkers for walk-in vaccination on a first come first serve basis. The walk-in appointments are reserved for first doses only with second doses to be scheduled automatically after administration of the initial shot.

A report released by New York State Comptroller Tom DiNapoli found 50% of the contracts in 2019 between Not-for-Profit organizations and the state were not processed until after the contract start date. DiNapoli’s report showed that  50% were processed after their start or renewal dates, he recommends that State agencies make prompt contracting a priority, The Not-for-Profit Contracting Advisory Committee should meet regularly & that State agencies should use electronic means to pay promptly & pay any interest due with the first payment to avoid cash flow problems.

State Senator Fred Akshar will be taking his Town Hall Meetings online for the 52nd Senate District through Zoom.  Residents who would like to participate in the virtual town hall meetings are asked to register at Akshar.NYSenate.Gov. When meetings are scheduled, participants in certain municipalities will be notified via email and phone.

A Joint Statement has been released by State Senator Fred
Akshar and Assemblyman Cliff Crouch on misleading mail sent by Assembly
Candidate Nick Libous.  Akshar &
Crouch took exception to mailing by Libous where both men are in pictures with
him, giving the illusion that they are backing his attempt to win election to
Assemblyman Crouch's seat that he will be retiring from at the end of the
year.  Akshar & Crouch said that they
do not support the Libous candidacy & they both endorse former police
chief, Fireman & Military combat veteran Joe Angelino for the Assembly
Seat.

22nd District Congressman Anthony Brindisi announced that he
is holding a COVID19 telephone town hall with Upstate health experts this
afternoon to answer questions about the coronavirus.  The event begins at 5:30 & the number is
855-614-0159 at to join in.  Congressman
Anthony Brindisi says he is in self-quarantine after coming in contact with
another representative who has tested positive for COVID-19.   Brindisi also announced that he came in
contact with Utah Congressman Ben McAdams, who tested positive for the disease,
Brindisi will self-quarantine at home until March 27th, and he said that he is
not exhibiting any symptoms associated with COVID-19.

Chenango County Health
Department confirmed today that they have a 2nd positive test for the
coronavirus of a County resident.
Officials said that the 2 cases are in quarantine currently, they cannot
release the location of the 2 patients.

Governor Cuomo, New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy and
Connecticut Governor Ned Lamont today announced Pennsylvania Governor Tom Wolf
is joining their coalition to implement a regional approach to combatting
COVID-19.  The 4 governors announced
indoor portions of retail shopping malls, amusement parks and bowling alleys in
the 4 states will close by 8:00 PM Tonight, which is an expansion of the guidance
issued Monday.

Delaware County Sheriff Craig DuMond announced that
uninterrupted law enforcement services will continue, however he advises that
if anyone is experiencing an emergency, call 911, but make sure that
dispatchers are advised if any members of your household are experiencing
flu-like symptoms, in order to protect all 1st responders, who can then respond
correctly to the situation which can help prepare to prevent the spread of any
illnesses or future quarantine of law enforcement members.

Assemblyman Cliff Crouch announced today that he will not be seeking re-election in 2020, ending a 25-year career in the state Assembly and 34-year career dedicated to the communities

(Crouch 1-27-20)

Crouch represents the 122nd Assembly District parts of Chenango, Broome, Otsego, Delaware Counties, was first elected to the Assembly in November 1995, he has given his endorsement to former Norwich Police Chief & Veteran Joe Angelino:

(Crouch endorsement)

Also today, Nick Libous, the son of the late State Senator Tom Libous announced his candidacy for the state Assembly’s 122nd district seat, seeking to replace Cliff Crouch, he commented about his candidacy to WCDO News:

(Nick Libous 1-27-20)

Libous is currently the Vice President of Wireless Construction Solutions, He also serves as a board member of the Southern Tier Lyme Support Group. The 122nd Assembly district includes residents in Broome, Chenango, Delaware and Otsego County’s

State Senator Fred Akshar joined members of law enforcement, crime victims’ advocates, district attorneys, and local leaders from throughout the region, to call for action from state government leaders in Albany to fix bail reform changes that recently went into effect. Akshar commented at the beginning of the Press conference moments ago at the Broome County Sheriff's Department:

(Akshar 1-27-20)

Akshar supports a full repeal of the bail reform laws, if that does not happen, he has proposed legislation to amend certain parts of the bill to give Judges the power to make bail decision on the most violent charges included in the legislation that went into effect January 1st.

The Mayors of Sidney, Bainbridge & Unadilla have teamed up to send out emails to their constituents regarding village notices, activities & events, Sidney Mayor Andy Matviak explains:

(Andy Matviak 1-27-20)

Matviak said that residents in each village should call their Village Clerk's office to get their individual village's email requirement, the email information that residents will submit will not be used for other purposes, a test run will go out this Thursday and the email blasts will go out every Thursday starting February 6th.

Chenango County Sheriff's Deputies arrested 46 year old Matthew Rolley of Norwich following an investigation into a 911 hang-up call of a man with a gun at a residence in the Town of Norwich. Rolley is accused of displaying a firearm in front of 3 people; one of victims was under the age of 17. Rolley was arrested, arraigned and released on his own recognizance. An order of protection was issued on behalf of the child involved; Rolley is scheduled to appear in the Town of Norwich Court at a later date.

The New York Association of Counties announced that County Officials will convene in Albany for the next 3 days for Legislative Conferences at the Desmond Hotel and Conference Center. Workshops at the conference will cover a range of issues including drinking water safety, criminal justice reform, the opioid epidemic, early intervention, health insurance, the growing hemp economy, and more than a dozen more.

7 Individuals Have Been Identified for Testing for the Corona Virus, the CDC Determined 3 Cases were Negative, 4 Results are Still Pending, & so far, there are no Confirmed Cases in New York State. More Information about the coronavirus is available at health.ny.gov/diseases.

Governor Cuomo announced funding for a 10th round of the Regional Economic Development Councils and a 5th round of the Downtown Revitalization Initiative is included in the Executive Budget. So far, the State has invested more than $6.9 billion through the REDCs, funding more than 8,300 projects.

Delaware County Sheriff’s Deputies arrested 51 year old William Macy of Bainbridge on 1 count of DWI, following a traffic stop on Sunset Avenue in the Village of Sidney. Macy was also charged with improper right turn at intersection, and moving from a lane unsafely. Macy was released on appearance tickets and is scheduled to re-appear in the Village of Sidney Court at a later date.

Delaware County Sheriff Deputies arrested 22 year old Joseph Bifaro of Walton on an Arrest Warrant issued by the Town of Walton Court for Criminal Contempt and Harassment. Bifaro is accused of disorderly behavior during a court session at the Hamden Town Court, he was arraigned in the Village of Walton Court and released on his own recognizance, and he will appear in the Town of Walton Court at a later date.

WCDONEWS THURSDAY 1-23-20

Statewide, there were 33 school districts designated in
fiscal stress, according to State Comptroller Tom DiNapoli.  This year, 4 districts are categorized as
being in significant fiscal stress, including the Norwich City School
District.  Local districts that were
listed as susceptible to fiscal stress were the oxford Academy, & the
Schenevus Central school district.  The
report also noted that the Southern Tier was the only region with a decrease
from the previous school fiscal year in the number of districts in fiscal
stress. Central New York and the North Country regions had the largest
percentages of districts in a fiscal stress category.

State Senator Fred Akshar released his latest Community
Voice Survey on the controversial new bail reform law that went into effect at
the beginning of the year.  The poll
found 49% of respondents said the changes were bad for New York while 37% said
they were good for the Empire State.
Akshar supports a full repeal, he has also introduced legislation to fix
key parts of the bail reform law, including a bill to restore bail for several
violent crimes & he also introduced legislation to remove the option of
cashless bail if the arrested individual has been convicted of a felony in the
past 10 years.

The Hartwick College Commencement Ceremony will be held
tomorrow, May 18th on the campus.
Seniors will assemble by 10:00 AM; the ceremony will begin at 11:30 AM
at Elmore Field.

Senator Fred Akshar will be hosting his 32nd “Face Time With
Fred” town hall meeting on tomorrow from 1:30pm - 3:00pm at the Hillcrest Fire
Department in Hillcrest. Community members are invited to attend the informal
meetings to discuss important state and local issues.

Destination Oneonta's Fabulous Friday Event will be held
today on Main Street from 5:30 to 8:00 PM.
The event will feature Tom & Doug's Cruise In & Music From Off
the Record.

Overtime pay in 2018 at state agencies was at the highest
level within the past decade, rising to $787 million, according to a report by
State Comptroller Tom DiNapoli. Overtime hours also rose, with 18.1 million
hours worked.     Meanwhile, the average
number of state employees (excluding the State University of New York and the
City University of New York) decreased slightly in 2018 to 155,818 -- 12
percent lower than in 2009. The largest decreases occurred in the Department of
Labor, Office of Children and Family Services and the Department of Health.

State Senator Fred Akshar released the results of his latest
online surveys.  On the Plastic Bag Ban,
40% opposed banning plastic grocery bags and opposed any additional taxes on
grocery bags; 37% support banning plastic grocery bags but oppose any
additional taxes on grocery bag sales; 22% support banning plastic grocery bags
and taxing other carryout grocery bags; and 2% oppose banning plastic grocery
bags but support taxing carryout grocery bags. On the First Responder
Legislation Results 96% support the increase of the volunteer and EMS tax
credit from $200 to $500, going up to $1,000 after 5 years of service, 95%
support the Community Heroes Protection Act, which would designate targeted
offenses against firefighters, EMS workers and law enforcement personnel as
hate crimes.

Local sales tax collections continued to climb in 2018,
According to a report released today by State Comptroller Tom DiNapoli.
Collections across the state of $17.5 billion grew by $872 million, or 5.3%,
every region in the state has experienced an increased annual growth rate in
sales tax collections in each of the last 3 years, with the exception of the
Finger Lakes.  The Southern Tier saw the
highest year-over-year increase at 6.8%, the strongest for the region since
2011.

The Delaware County Chamber of Commerce announced that their
next "1sty Friday Eat & Greet” event will be held at the Bellayre ski
resort in Highmount om February 1st at 8:30 AM.
The last day to register for the event through the Chamber office in
Delhi is tomorrow at http://delawarecounty.org

State Senator Fred Akshar released his latest in a series of
online surveys.  Akshar is asking his
constituents to weigh in on the Governor's proposal to legalize recreational
marijuana. Key provisions of the proposal include Establishing separate licensing
programs for marijuana growers, distributors and retailers, with a ban on
growers also opening retail shops;
Imposing a 20 percent state tax and 2 percent local tax on the sale of
the drug from wholesalers to retailers, plus a per-gram tax on growers;
Allowing counties and large cities to ban marijuana sales within their
boundaries & Banning marijuana sales to anyone under the age of 21. The
survey can be found at Akshar.NYSenate.Gov.

The results are in from the State Board of Elections in the U.S. Senate seat, Democratic incumbent Kirsten Gillibrand by a 2 to 1 margin over Republican Chele Farley, in local Congressional races, in the 19th District, Democrat Antonio Delgado defeats incumbent John Faso by about 3%. In the 22nd District: Democrat Anthony Brindisi defeats incumbent Claudia Tenney. In State Office races, Incumbent Democrat Andrew Cuomo defeated all challengers to win a 3rd term as Governor, State Comptroller Tom DiNapoli easily defeats all challengers for another term., and the new Attorney General will be Democrat Letitia James. In the race for the 6th District State Supreme Court seat, Republican Joe McBride wins. In area State Senate races, in the 42nd district, Democrat Jennifer Metzger wins over Republican Ann Rabbitt for the seat previously held by the retiring John Bonacic, in the 51st district, Republican Incumbent Jim Seward wins re-election for a 17th term, in the 52nd district , Incumbent Republican Fred Akshar was unopposed. In local State Assembly Races, in the 121 District: Republican John Salka defeats longtime incumbent Bill Magee, in the 122 District: Incumbent Cliff Crouch easily defeats Conservative Nicholas Libous, in the 123rd District: Democratic incumbent Donna Lupardo was unopposed & in the 102nd District: Democrat Aidan O’Conner wins by a slim margin over incumbent Republican Christopher Tague. Rich Devlin is re-elected as Otsego County Sheriff & David Harder is re-elected as Broome County Sheriff.

State Police arrested 32 year old Jessica Klinegardner of Tompkins for Unlawful Possession of Personal Identification Information, after a complaint by the victim that she noticed suspicious charges on her deceased mother’s credit card. An investigation revealed that Klinegardner was working as a home health aide for the deceased victim; she was issued an appearance ticket to appear in the town of Tompkins Court on December 6th.

Tomorrow is Election Day, with a host of important races to be decided.
For FEDERAL Positions, in the U.S. SENATE, Democratic incumbent Kirsten Gillibrand faces Republican challenger Chele Farley. In area House of Representative Races; in the 19th District: Incumbent Republican John Faso faces challenges from Democrat Antonio Delgado, Green Candidate Steven Greenfield, & Independent Dianne Neal; in the 22nd District: Republican Incumbent Claudia Tenney vs Democrat Anthony Brindisi.
- - - - - - - - - -
In key races on the County Level, for Otsego County Sheriff; Incumbent Rich Devlin faces Robert Fernandez, in the Broome County Sheriff's race: Incumbent David Harder Vs Matt Ryan. . In the race for the 6th District of the State Supreme Court: Republican Joe McBride faces Democrat Elizabeth Burns.
- - - - - - - - -
For State Offices, for Governor: 2 term Incumbent Democrat Andrew Cuomo faces challenges from Republican Marcus Molinaro, Green Party Candidate Howie Hawkins, Libertarian Larry Sharpe, & Independent Stephanie Miner; in the race for Comptroller: Incumbent Democrat Tom DiNapoli, faces Republican Jonathan Trichter & Green Candidate Mark Dunlea, for Attorney General; Democrat Letitia James, Republican Keith Wofford, Green Candidate Michael Sussman, Libertarian Christopher Garvey are running In local State Senate races, in the 42nd District, Democrat Jennifer Metzger faces Republican Ann Rabbitt, in the 51st District; Republican Incumbent Jim Seward faces Democrat Joyce St. George. In the 52nd District, Incumbent Republican Fred Akshar is unopposed. In local State Assembly races, in the 121 District: Incumbent Bill Magee faces Republican John Salka, in the 122 District Incumbent Cliff Crouch faces a challenge from Conservative Nicholas Libous, there is no Democratic candidate. In the 123rd District: Democratic incumbent Donna Lupardo is unopposed, in the 102 District: Incumbent Republican Christopher Tague faces Democrat Aidan O’Conner

Delaware County Sheriff’s Deputies arrested 31 year old Jessie Bolster and 40 year old Roy Bolster of Harpursville after they were stopped in Hancock for Traffic infractions. Jessie Bolster was operating the motor vehicle while having several active suspensions; Roy Bolster was wanted on an active arrest warrant from Tompkins County Family Court. A search of the vehicle revealed the pair were in possession of Oxycodone & bags of crystal methamphetamine. Both were charged with 4 counts of Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance, Jessie Bolster was additionally charged with Aggravated Unlicensed Operation. Both were arraigned & were remanded to the Delaware County Correctional Facility in lieu of $10,000 cash/$20,000 secured bond.

A woman, who suffered cardiac arrest Friday, is expected to survive after the quick actions of State Troopers and a citizen. A trooper was dispatched to a report of a 70-year-old woman who had collapsed in the lobby of the Richfield Springs Post Office, She was unresponsive when the trooper arrived and a citizen was already performing CPR. Another trooper arrived & administered the Automated External Defibrillator, EMS arrived, and they took the woman to Basset Hospital in Cooperstown. The unidentified woman regained consciousness at the hospital and is expected to recover.

State Senator Fred Akshar has come under fire for his relationship with Jessica Williams, who has worked for Akshar, his predecessor Tom Libous & is now working for the state Senate Republicans staff and she has received large percentage pay increases since 2011. Akshar spokesman Emmanuel Priest told WCDO News that Williams' is involved with Senator Akshar, and the increasing salary was commensurate with the work she has been tasked with doing. Akshar has been a State Senator since 2015, when he won a special election to fill Libous's seat.

The 7th & Final "Rock in the Park" will be held tomorrow at General Clinton Park in Bainbridge, organizer Jason Hall explains:

(Jason Hall 7-6-18)

The show is scheduled to begin at 12:00 Noon tomorrow, with the headliners "Tusk-A Tribute To Fleetwood Mac" going on stage in the early evening.

The annual Gus Macker 3 on 3 Basketball Tournament has been scheduled for the weekend of July 14th & 15th in Norwich, organizer Tom Revoir told WCDO news how teams can register:

(Tom Revoir 6-4-18)

Hundreds of teams & thousands of spectators traditionally fill up the streets in Norwich during this annual event, details are available at Macker.com.

On Monday, at 9:30am, Senator Fred Akshar will join Harpursville Central School District staff and students to unveil a new playground at the Olmstead Elementary school. Senator Akshar was able to secure $135,000 in last year's State Budget for the improvements to make the playground accessible for children of all abilities.

State Senator Fred Akshar announced that there will be a free "Shed the Meds" event, at the Oakdale mall in Johnson City Saturday from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM. Drop off point will be in the mall parking lot near the back entrance of the UHS Stay Healthy facility. Southern Tier Aids Program will also conduct a Narcan Training event, registration is requested at Akshar.nysenate.gov.

The 4th annual Sidney Veterans Memorial Park Association Golf Tournament will be held on Sunday at the Sidney Golf & Country Club, as a fundraiser for future work at the Memorial site in Sidney at River Street near State Route 8. Spokesman Tom Ruff explains:

(Tom Ruff 6-1-18)

More information is available at 518-256-7899 or at Sidney Veteran’s Memorial Park.org.

Assemblyman Cliff Crouch held a Campaign Stop in Afton today, surrounded by local leaders from his district, lending their support. Bainbridge Mayor Phillip Wade & Sidney Mayor Andy Matviak gave their endorsements:

(Mayors 5-117-18)

Crouch acknowledge that he may have an opponent forcing a Republican Primary this year in Nicholas Libous, the son of the late State Senator Tom Libous:

(Crouch 5-17-18)

Crouch has served in the state Assembly since 1995, when he won a special mid-term election to replace Clarence Rappleyea, who left the Assembly to run the New York Power Authority.

THE New York STATE CHAMPION DELHI GIRLS BASKETBALL TEAM WAS HONORED IN ALBANY WEDNESDAY. THE LADY BULLDOGS WERE RECOGNIZED AT THE CAPITAL BUILDING ON THE SENATE FLOOR AND THE ASSEMBLY FLOOR BY SENATORS JAMES SEWARD, FRED AKSHAR AND JOHN BONACIC. A STATE LEGISLATIVE RESOLUTION WAS PASSED CONGRATULATING THE TEAM ON winning THE CLASS-D GIRLS BASKETBALL CHAMPIONSHIP OVER FRANKLINVILLE IN MARCH. Pictures of yesterday’s event can be located at WCDOSPORTS.COM.

Oneonta City officials announced that their First Fabulous Fridays will begin on May 4th this year. Scheduled for the season opener are Tom & Doug's Cruise-In on Main Street from 5:00 to 8:00 PM, with Live Music, food & Beverages available.

The New York State Senate passed "Laree's Law" this week. Laree's Law would allow law enforcement officials to charge a drug dealer with homicide if a death results from the sale of heroin or an opiate controlled substance. State Senator Fred Akshar voted in favor of the measure, he said that High-level drug dealers who profit from the heroin epidemic should be held accountable for the lives taken from the sale of the deadly drugs, the bill moves onto the Assembly for consideration.

Assemblywoman Donna Lupardo and State Senator Fred Akshar joined local law enforcement officials Friday to discuss cracking down on impaired driving across the State. Last year, the 2 legislators were successful in securing $1.6 million in state funding for STOP-DWI programs that became available for use to local programs at the beginning of 2018. Additionally, Lupardo and Akshar are also working on legislation that would allow for fines from impaired driving offenses to be collected ahead of other fees and surcharges collected by the state.

State Comptroller Tom DiNapoli issued an audit that Reveals Issues Behind Broome County's Fiscal Stress. From 2014 through 2016, Broome County depleted its fund balance to dangerously low levels jeopardizing public services and long-term infrastructure investments, DiNapoli recommended that the county stop using the fund balance to finance recurring expenditures; Develop a fund balance policy that establishes a reasonable amount of fund balance, reduce or eliminate reliance on short-term borrowing; & Adopt balanced budgets. The final audit can be read at osc.state.ny.us.