Charlie Voelker is the co-host of The Drive every weekday afternoon from 3 pm to 7pm. Charlie has been a part of the Capital Region Sports scene for over the last 25 years. In 1996 he joined Big Board Sports host and NewsChannel 13 sports director, Rodger Wyland in the UAlbany broadcast booth for football and basketball. Charlie spent 6 years in minor league baseball, then spent the next 17 years as the Associate Athletic Director for the University at Albany before retiring from that position in 2020. Charlie and his wife Kim live in Albany County with his son Andrew.
Charlie Voelker
NFL Facing Discrimination Investigation In New York & California
The NFL may be about to face two of its toughest opponents. Accusations of racial discrimination and sexual harassment against one of the richest and most powerful sports leagues in the world came out on Thursday. The charges do not involve the 32 franchises, just the league.
Is The Aaron Rodgers Joke On The New York Jets Or The Packers?
The first week of the "Aaron Rodgers New York Jets" has gone better than anyone, even owner Woody Johnson, could have ever imagined. But, is this just the honeymoon period or is Rodgers seizing the opportunity to expand his brand in the advertising capital of the world with a team with a more talented roster than he had in Green Bay? Let's remember that no games have been played yet.
See How New York State Ranks In 2023 & Why People Are Leaving
U.S News released their annual state rankings this week. Which of the 50-states is the best to live in and why? Some people are pretty biased. As a lifelong New Yorker, it is difficult to agree with priorities of someone in, say, Utah.
New Comedy Based On Buffalo Bills Mafia Wraps Up Filming
Buffalo Bills fans would rather have a Lombardi Trophy than an an Oscar. But surely, the Bills Mafia wouldn't snub the Academy. A new comedy based on a long-time Bills fan may generate some familiar laughs. Whether or not it is Oscar worthy, fans will have to find out later this year when the new movie hits the big screen.
Albany Empire Is Crumbling At The Hands Of Antonio Brown
Antonio Brown was somehow supposed to be "good" for the Albany Empire of the National Arena League. The former NFL magnet-to-trouble was going to connect the Empire to the community. Now the arena football team is in the midst of reports of the head coach, along with star players quitting the team, only a few weeks into the season.
Cold Case Murderer Of NYPD Cop’s Daughter Set To Walk Free
There has been a bizarre twist in the cold case murder of an NYPD detective's daughter in Orange County. Following last week's celebrated arrest, a procedural mistake is about to set Megan McDonald's killer free, likely temporarily. Compounding the intrigue is the fact that the District Attorney in the case has now recused himself, due to conflict of interest.
The Team’s NFL Draft Guru Breaks Down 104.5 Mock Draft 2023
The Team's NFL Draft Expert, Intern Mike Giarraputo, put together the First Round picks in the 104.5 Mock Draft 2023. Giarraputo breaks down each team's needs and their round one pick. The NFL Draft prodigy even predicts a few trades. Let's see what Mike Giarraputo has to say!
“Digidog” Unleashed In New York Building Collapse Rescue
Back on April 11th, New York City Mayor Eric Adams introduced two-new robotic dogs to the NYPD and NYFD's arsenal purchased by the city. Previously, former Mayor Bill deBlasio leased a robotic dog for NYC but never allowed the police or fire departments to use the technology because of public-privacy outcries. So, the former mayor enjoyed an expensive, low-maintenance pet, very much in-line with his tenure.
Monster Fish Headed Up The Hudson Towards Albany
More than a few Capital Region residents are caught off guard when you tell them that 30 and 40 pound fish are caught in the Hudson River near downtown Albany, each year in late April and early June. Really? It's true.
Can Aaron Rodgers Reverse The 54-Year Curse For New York Jets?
Aaron Rodgers has some history to put in the past for Gang Green fans. It was January 12, 1969 when New York Jets quarterback Joe Namath disappeared into the locker-room waving his one index finger after defeating the Baltimore Colts in Super Bowl III, 16-7.
First Round Of NFL Draft Likely Sees Buffalo Bills As Spectators
Like every other team, the Buffalo Bills are busy this week trying to surpass the Kansas City Chiefs. On Thursday, the 2023 NFL Draft will be held at Union Station in Kanas City. Buffalo fans may have to be patient this year to enjoy their team's participation.
Mets Star May Pitch In Upstate New York on Friday
The New York Mets have been keeping pace with the red-hot Atlanta Braves at the top of the National League East to start the season. However, Mets owner Steve Cohen is investing $144 million MORE in payroll than Atlanta in 2023. One would assume that in year three, the primary stakeholder has higher expectations this season than a wild-card-round loss at Citi Field.