Education
SUNY Can’t Mandate COVID Vaccines Until They’re Fully Approved By FDA
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SUNY is pushing vaccine awareness campaigns and encouraging students and faculty to use vaccine clinics on campus.
Government
Republican Congress Member Unworried By Trump ‘Nonsense,’ Calls Pelosi’s Insurrection Committee ‘A Mess’
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Former President Donald Trump told the Onondaga County Conservative Party last month, that he’ll help campaign for a challenger against Katko.
Crime and Justice
After GOP Senators Block Insurrection Commission, New York Republican Says ‘It’s Not Over Yet’
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Five people were killed, including three law enforcement officers, in a riot at the Capitol, following a rally for then-President Trump. More than a hundred officers were injured.
Government
Southwest Airlines Flies Out Of Syracuse This Fall: ‘This Is A Game Changer’
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“When airlines start coming to your community, that’s a sign the economic trajectory is going in the right direction.”
Government
GOP House Leaders Reject Katko’s Deal On An Insurrection Commission
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“If the Republican leaders are just going to throw their lead negotiators under the bus, why do they even participate in negotiations at all?”
News
Conservative Party Says Stefanik ‘Perfect’ As Cheney Replacement In GOP Leadership
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Cheney “is laser focused on a vendetta against President Trump and that is completely the wrong platform to be using as the leader of the House.”
Featured in Category
Congressman Reed’s District Could Be Eliminated As New York Loses Congressional Seat
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“There won’t be someone there arguing against or for a redistricting line in the same way that you would have if someone was actually an incumbent and running again.”
Food and Farms
Bar, Restaurant Owners Want Midnight Curfew Lifted
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“Over and over, we’ve heard that we’re supposed to be following the facts and science. But as weeks turn into months, and months have now turned into over a year, we watched this administration change the rules without regard to either.”
App NEWS
Essential Caregivers Back Federal Bill That Guarantees Access To Nursing Home Residents
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“The nursing home allowed her to die. I had no idea my mother was being neglected. They lie to you. You call on the phone every day, you’re FaceTiming and they’re telling you she’s fine, she’s great.”
App NEWS
Oneida County, FEDS Negotiate Over Voter Disenfranchisement, Congresswoman Calls It A Shakedown
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The Oneida County Attorney says the county and DOJ’s goals are the same, to ensure the rights of voters are protected.
Government
For Cannabis Activists, New York’s Legalization A ‘Big Deal’
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“The gavel came down and I was in my living room with tears streaming down my face.”
App NEWS
Republicans Gear Up For New York’s 2022 Race For Governor
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“You need to weave together coalitions of people from different demographics, regions of the state, but also different ideologies. There just aren’t enough Republican votes to win an election.”
Government
Representative Tenney on Trump, Insurrection, Certifying Presidential Election
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Tenney would’ve voted against the second impeachment of Trump, saying fiery language is used on both sides and protected by the First Amendment.
App NEWS
Using Drones To Distribute COVID Test Kits
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“This is the future that you’re seeing, in how packages are going to be delivered both business to business and have packages going from businesses to consumers.”
Crime and Justice
In Brindisi-Tenney Race, Judge Orders Review Of 1,000 Rejected Oneida County Affidavit Ballots
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It was discovered the Board failed to process over 2,400 voter registration applications that were filed on time through the state DMV website.
App NEWS
Upstate Congress Members Condemn Attack On U.S. Capitol
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“We must emphatically reject these horrible instances of physical attacks on our governing institutions and let democracy proceed.”
News
With Challenged Ballots In NY22 Race, Some Election Officials Failed To Follow Law
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Besides the razor thin margin, the absentee ballot counting process has been plagued by some errors and inefficiencies made by election officials.
App NEWS
Cuomo Writes Trump, Biden; Raises Concerns About Vaccination Rollout
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“Just like we went through with the COVID tests, they’re underserved by health care facilities and their rate of skepticism is higher. It’s going to be an extensive effort to outreach to Black, brown and poor communities.”
App NEWS
Down 20 Points, Balter Won’t Concede Until Absentee Ballots Counted
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“Something was systematically wrong with the polls generally, not just here, but across the country. Clearly, I think there was an underestimation of the Republican side of the turnout.”
Education
After Surge In Coronavirus Cases, Syracuse University Pauses Student Activities
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Syracuse University officials said late Tuesday that the number of students who have tested positive for COVID-19 in the last day has risen to 45. Most are associated with a off-campus parties that occurred last week.
Arts
Syracuse Art Museum Takes ‘Big Risk’, Selling $18 million Jackson Pollock Painting
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The museum is making the sale to buy more work from artists of color, women and other marginalized groups.
Economy
‘Worst Year Ever’ For Upstate Hotels, Some Down 60-70%
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“It is very stressful. It’s been six months now that we haven’t had the revenue in the stream. It’s been a difficult time.”
App NEWS
After COVID-19 Uptick On Oswego Campus, SUNY Chancellor Says There’s ‘No Cause For Alarm’
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“We want to keep students here and operating. If there has to be some mitigation efforts taken, we will keep students here as much as we can. But, we all have to remain vigilant.”
Government
Frustration Mounts As New York’s Gyms Remain Closed. How Risky Is It For Them To Reopen?
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“We have been losing members without new members joining. Our expenses are piling up. Our revenue is nonexistent.”
Education
Space, Staffing Figure Into Plans For Reopening New York Schools
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Classroom capacity ranges from about 19-21 students. But with social distancing, the capacity can drop to around 16 or 17 students.
Government
New York Offers Rent Relief To Low-Income Residents. Activists Call For Canceling Rent
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The COVID Rent Relief Program provides a one-time rent subsidy, paid directly to landlords, based on the amount of income lost in the past four months.
App NEWS
‘This Is A Really Tough One’: New York State Fair Canceled
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“This year we’re going to have to cancel it. That makes me personally, very unhappy, but that is where we are.”
Education
Mail-In Ballots Expand Turnout In School Budget Votes, But At ‘Tremendous Cost’
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“The ideal situation would be to see this kind of turnout, without having to go through the expense of the postage and printing of absentee ballots.”
Episodes
Absentee Ballots Could Boost ‘Record-Breaking Turnout’ For New York Primary
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“There is a lot of interest in this election and there is a lot of interest in voting absentee in this election.”
Education
Upstate High Schools Make Graduation Plans. Governor Allows Ceremonies For Up To 150 people
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“It really is the best situation, I guess, that we can have. It’s a tough one. It’s really not what we want, but we’ll make the best of it.”
App NEWS
Hair Stylists, Nail Salons Plan Reopening With No Guidance From New York State
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“If I’m not making money, if I can’t sustain rent on 2,400 square feet, plus utilities, then it’s no longer a benefit for me to keep the business as it was running.”
New York VA Featured In Inspector General Report On PPE Shortages
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“It’s baffling that the Veterans Health Administration does not have a strategy in place to address the shortages of PPE in New York.”
App NEWS
GOP Congressman Wants Financial Aid For County Governments In Next Stimulus Bill
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Congressman John Katko and North Country Rep. Elise Stefanik (R-Schuylerville) were appointed to the White House task force for reopening the economy.
Finger Lakes Cheesemaker Buys Excess Milk, Donates Dairy Products To Food Banks
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“That’s awful, awful, heart breaking when you watch your milk go down the drain when it’s a perfectly good, sellable product,”
Government
At Virtual Town Hall, Gillibrand Agrees States, Cities Need More Federal Funds
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“I’ve talked to our mayors all across New York, and a lot of them are now deciding whether they’re going to lay off police officers and firefighters.”
Food and Farms
With More Families In Need, Orders Increase At Food Bank
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“These past few weeks have been pretty heavy with orders and agencies trying to get their pantries restocked as they’re seeing more people come to them for help.”
Featured in Category
Brindisi, Katko Urge Immediate Release Of Federal Stimulus Funds To Hospitals
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“It’s absolutely crucial that we get this money to people now, for the hospitals now, and for people on the frontlines now, that being individuals.”
With Coronavirus On Horizon, Continued Student Occupation At Syracuse University Uncertain
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Student protesters at Syracuse University would not say if they will continue occupying Crouse-Hinds Hall during spring break next week.
Education
Due To Coronavirus Concerns, Syracuse University Moves All Classes Online
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“The idea of (students) returning immediately from spring break and the potential risk that could pose to this community, we made this decision out of an abundance of caution,”
Government
Canvassers Count Homeless In Central New York
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The point-in-time count is done every year and is a requirement for some federal funding through the Department of Housing and Urban Development.
Government
Challenges, Including Issues Surrounding Citizenship, Face Organizers Promoting 2020 Census
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“What it has done though, is galvanize this group of community groups to go out and make sure people don’t let that fear stop them from being recognized and counted.”
Crime and Justice
Lt. Governor On Bail Reforms: ‘There Is A Lot Of Fear-Mongering Going On’
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“There is a lot of people exaggerating the situation. The vast majority of people, they are non-violent crimes, that’s the premise, they are misdemeanors.”
App NEWS
Warehouse Distribution Centers Create Jobs, But Lack Employee Retention, Says Management Professor
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“They have a lot of good benefits available to employees. But most of them don’t come into effect until one of two years into employment.”
Crime and Justice
Bill Would Make Anti-Semitic Attacks A Hate Crime In New York
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The bill was introduced last spring, after a wave of anti-Semitic attacks happened across the country, including a shooting at a Pittsburgh synagogue that killed 11 people.
App NEWS
FEMA Denies Individual Assistance To Victims Of Halloween Storm In Mohawk Valley
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“When you see a house go down a river, when you see a house hanging over an embankment…when is it enough for FEMA to say this county, this region, this state, needs our assistance?”
App NEWS
Upstate Professor Collects Thousands Of Holiday Cards For Kids Impacted By Mass Shootings
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“I’m writing you to wish you a very happy holidays. Remember there will always be people who care about and support you. The world is a better place with you in it.”
Government
As New York’s Green Light Law Goes Into Effect, Some County Clerks Still Have Questions
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Some county clerks say their offices are not ready, and it’s been a significant challenge for them to get more information from the Department of Motor Vehicles.
App NEWS
Police, Prosecutors Also Concerned Over Criminal Justice Reforms In New York
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“We are forced to stand here, after the fact, calling to the attention of the public, the legislature, and the governor, the serious flaws in these new laws.”
News
New York GOP Chair Calls On Brindisi To Denounce Impeachment Inquiry
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“It’s an absolute calamity. None of the work of the country is getting done. They’re trying to stop President Trump’s progress. Stop his agenda dead in his tracks. All for the interest of politics.”
Education
As Racist Incidents Continue, Syracuse Chancellor Responds To Student Demands
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In the past two weeks, SU has been rocked by at least 10 incidents including racist graffiti, yelling racial slurs and hateful emails.
Government
Brindisi Plan Targets Internet Providers, Spectrum, On Rising Costs
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“What we have found is these companies are very secretive. They don’t want to shed too much light on their business practices. But to me, sunshine is the best disinfectant.”
Health
Syracuse Narcan Trainer Dies Of Apparent Overdose
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Donovan shared his own past struggle with addiction in his training.
binghamton
Former Congress Woman Claims The Dem Who Defeated Her ‘Masqueraded’ As Moderate
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“There’s so much chaos going on in Washington. There’s not really much getting done, at all. It’s just constant investigations, impeachment inquiry.”
Education
New York Comptroller Audit Faults SUNY Upstate For ‘Insufficient Oversight’
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“It goes for transparency and accountability that you need to have policies and procedures in place to make sure dollars are spent wisely and that these are, indeed, necessary payments.”
Government
FEMA Administrator Discusses Disaster Relief For Lake Ontario Flooding
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Acting administrator for the Federal Emergency Management Agency Pete Gaynor toured some of the flooding damage along the Lake Ontario shoreline.
News
Congressman Warns Of ‘Catastrophic Event’ During Cybersecurity Roundtable
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“I think businesses and entities don’t always pay enough attention to the cyber issues and as the threat builds and conflicts grow internationally, it’s a very serious component.”
Hochul, Stewart-Cousins Reflect On 100 Years Of Women’s Suffrage
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Stewart-Cousins spoke about how when her mother was born, she did not have the right to vote.
Economy
Hemp Farmers Struggle With Rejection From Banks, Social Media Ads
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“It was really difficult because when you’re trying to run a business and you can’t have a bank account, it doesn’t really work.”
Crime and Justice
New Catholic Bishop Ordained; Protestors Demand Zero Tolerance For Abuse
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Bishop Douglas Lucia was ordained in front of about 1,000 people at the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception in downtown Syracuse.
Crime and Justice
Brindisi Calls For Probe After Graphic Photos Of Utica Murder Stayed On Social Media
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The alleged killer of Bianca Devins posted images of her death on social media that remained visible on platforms like Instagram for more than a week.
News
Israeli Ambassador, Holocaust Refugees Thank Oswego For Fort Ontario shelter
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Refugees spent about a year and half at the fort before they were allowed to officially enter the U.S. as new immigrants.
Government
New York Congress Members Split Over Trump’s Racist Tweets
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“What kind of person stands by silently, when somebody directs racist insults against his own colleagues?”
App NEWS
After Recent Murder-Suicide, New York Senator Calls For More Prevention Funds
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“These don’t have to be psychiatrists or neurologists, just people who generally provide health care to recognize tell-tale signs. We’ve done some of this in mental illness and it’s much improved.
App NEWS
Heat, Early Rain Create Fertile Conditions For Harmful Algal Blooms
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Several bodies of water in central New York have reported harmful algal blooms in recent weeks. With temperatures heating up after a wet spring, conditions are ripe for the blooms.
App NEWS
Attorney General Announces $9-Million Assault On New York’s ‘Zombie’ Properties
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“We know that these abandoned homes dramatically decrease property values, they burden local governments, they threaten the safety of surrounding communities.”
Crime and Justice
Katko Bill Would Review Pretrial Release, Electronic Monitoring
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Rep. John Katko (R-Camillus) is introducing a bill to review the pretrial release system across the country. It would focus on the monitoring practices for those on pretrial release.
News
With Lake Ontario Flooding, Oswego Marina Closes
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“We don’t want anybody slipping and falling into the water. We don’t want their boats ending up on shore. So, for right now, it makes the most sense to shut the marina down.”
agriculture
Upstate Hosts Ag Secretary; Pushed For Immigration, North American Trade Deals
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“China (has) used the American consumer and producer for many years by creating barriers to letting our products in their country, while they want to overwhelm us with their products.”
App NEWS
‘Hero’ School Bus Driver Commended By New York Congressman
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“It’s our worst nightmare to see a student be that close to danger as my student was that day.”
Crime and Justice
‘Major’ Drug Bust Arrests 65 For Heroin, Fentanyl Trafficking In Central, Northern New York
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“When you see 65 of these people being arrested, 65 of the people who are responsible for bringing this dangerous drug into our community locked up, that’s a good day for us.”
Economy
Novelis Seeks Exclusions From Aluminum Tariffs On Canada, Which ‘Hurt’ Oswego Plant
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“It really put a hurt on us, the tariffs, making it very difficult for us to ship back and forth across the border.”
Government
For More Accurate Count, NY Advocates Say Additional $20 million Needed For 2020 Census
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“There’s definitely a lack of information, lack of knowledge about census, why it’s important, let alone, going about navigating through the system.”
App NEWS
Senator Schumer Wants To See Full Mueller Report, Questions US Attorney General As Fair Arbiter
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The Attorney General “stated, before he took office, that he didn’t believe that any president could be held guilty of obstruction of justice,” Schumer said.
binghamton
Katko Supports Some, But Not All Campaign Finance Reform Proposals
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A voting, campaign finance and ethics reform bill known as the For the People Act or H.R. 1, is scheduled to be voted on in the House of Representatives this week. Central New York Rep. John Katko (R-Camillus) said he supports many parts of the bill, with one big exception.
Education
Education Equity Tour Wants $4 Billion Increase To New York School Aid
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As advocacy groups continue to pressure Albany on various causes ahead of this year’s state budget, a statewide educational equity tour made a stop in Syracuse, last week. A collection of local officials and other advocates said New York’s schools are underfunded by $4 billion.
News
Law Enforcement Describes Deadly Boeheim Crash As ‘Horrible, Sad Tragedy’
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Law enforcement officials are describing a deadly car accident involving Syracuse men’s basketball coach Jim Boeheim as a horrible, sad tragedy. Boeheim hit and killed a man who was fleeing a disabled vehicle on Interstate 690 in Syracuse.
binghamton
Closing Of Sackets Harbor Grocery Store ‘Almost Expected’ After Dollar General Opened Store
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The village of Sackets Harbor is losing one of the only stores where residents could get groceries, and its owner is blaming the opening of a nearby Dollar General as one of the reasons for its closing.
Government
Providers Of Mental Health Housing Rally, Say Fast Food Workers Earn More
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Advocates for increased funding of mental health housing programs rallied in Syracuse and across New York State Thursday. They said there has not been a substantial increase in funding for more than 10 years.
Local GOP, Gun Owners Balk At Some Gun Controls Passed By New York Legislature
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Central New York’s Republican state representatives and some local gun owners have reacted negatively to some of the new gun safety measures that passed the legislature last week. Republicans said they were left out of negotiations with the Democratic-controlled Assembly and Senate.
binghamton
For Struggling New York Farmers Out Of Options, FarmNet Offers Help
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For upstate counties, particularly in rural areas, the suicide rate can sometimes be double or even triple the rate of New York City counties. The upstate farming industry has been struggling in recent years, but there is help for farmers who need it.
binghamton
New York Republicans Say Voting Reforms Are Costly, Could Disenfranchise Voters
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Local elected officials are reacting to voting reform measures passed in the Democratic-controlled New York State Legislature last week and signed by Gov. Andrew Cuomo Thursday. While some Republicans supported the efforts, others said the changes are too costly and could disenfranchise voters.
Government
Brindisi, Katko Introduce Legislation To Pay TSA Officers During Shutdown
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Rep. John Katko (R-Camillus) and Rep. Anthony Brindisi (D-Utica) have introduced legislation that would pay transportation security officers during the partial federal government shutdown. It is an example of the bipartisanship and compromise Katko, a Republican, and Brindisi, a Democrat, say is needed to end the shutdown.
Government
Brindisi, Katko, Attend White House Talks, See A Path That Ends Shutdown
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Rep. John Katko (R-Camillus) made his second appearance in two days at the White House Wednesday as negotiations continued between Democrats and President Donald Trump to reopen the federal government.
binghamton
Brindisi Votes Against Once And Future House Speaker; Could Support Border Wall ‘In Certain Areas’
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Newly sworn-in Rep. Anthony Brindisi (D-Utica) already fulfilled one campaign promise Thursday by not voting for Nancy Pelosi for speaker of the House.
binghamton
Minimum Wage Increases Across New York, State Launches Compliance Hotline
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Minimum wage workers across New York State are getting a raise. Gov. Andrew Cuomo said it shows government can make a difference in people’s lives, but central New York businesses are mixed on its impact.
Food and Farms
Proposed Changes To Military Milk Deliveries Could Hurt New York’s Dairy Industry
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A new federal proposal would change the way New York’s military installations get milk, and could hurt local dairy farmers. Sen. Charles Schumer (D-NY) is trying to stop it.
binghamton
New York State Assembly Members Split On Pay Raises, Limits On Outside Income
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New York lawmakers’ pay raises, which are being challenged in court, are expected to go into effect Jan. 1 and would increase legislators’ pay by more than 60 percent over three years. Central New York’s state Assembly members are split on the raises.
Government
Katko Calls On Democrats, GOP To Compromise On Border Security
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The White House has signaled it may not shut down the government over $5 billion for a wall along the Southern Border. But central New York’s congressional representative said the issue is not going away.
agriculture
Farm Bill Includes Some Relief For Struggling New York Dairy Farms
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President Donald Trump this week is expected to sign the 2018 Farm Bill that passed Congress last week. The bill includes some relief for struggling dairy farmers.
Economy
New York Agriculture Officials Promote Local, Farm-Fresh Christmas Trees
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Local and state officials are promoting farm-fresh Christmas trees this holiday season. It’s an $8 million industry in New York State and the trees are also good for the environment.
How Will New York’s GOP Congress Members Work With The DEM Majority?
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Next year will be the first time some upstate House Republicans will be in the minority. Central New York Rep. John Katko (R-Camillus) said he has built a lot of bridges with Democrats over the last four years.
Government
GOP Congress Members Lay Out Short Term Priorities
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Upstate Republican House members are trying to get some spending priorities accomplished before the end of the year. They are also trying to avoid a potential government shutdown over the issue of border security.
Economy
Amazon New York HQ Could Spur Investment In Upstate’s Drone Corridor
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Reaction has been mixed to Amazon’s selection of Long Island City in Queens as one of its new headquarters, promising 25,000 high-paying jobs. But Syracuse business leaders said they are expecting a spill-over effect of investment in central New York, because of the region’s drone corridor.
News
Brindisi Promises Continued Opposition To Pelosi For Speaker, Will Work With Trump When Possible
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Democratic Congressman-elect Anthony Brindisi, who won a narrow victory over Mohawk Valley Rep. Claudia Tenney (R-New Hartford), is sticking to his commitment against voting for Nancy Pelosi as the next speaker of the House.
binghamton
New York Equal Rights Heritage Center Opens
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SYRACUSE, NY (WRVO) – Officials in Auburn opened the $10 million Equal Rights Heritage Center, a place for visitors to learn about the important social movements throughout New York State history. It is meant to drive tourism and educate the public on the historic significance of the region.
News
Absentee Ballots Up Significantly From 2014 As Brindisi, Tenney Race Tightens
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SYRACUSE, NY (WRVO) – More absentee ballots were sent in all eight counties covering the 22nd Congressional District in this past midterm election compared to four years ago.
binghamton
Negative Political Ads Up 60-Percent From 2014, But Can Engage, Inform Voters
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SYRACUSE, NY (WRVO) – By the time polls open Tuesday, most voters have seen or heard a lot of negative political ads. The number of negative ads in federal races is up 60 percent this year from the 2014 midterms, according to The Wesleyan Media Project, which tracks broadcast political advertisements.
News
On 30th Anniversary Of Crash, Pan Am 103 First Responders Bike From Lockerbie to Syracuse
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SYRACUSE, NY (WRVO) – The tragic ties that bind Syracuse, N.Y. and Lockerbie, Scotland are stronger than ever, 30 years after Pan Am Flight 103 crashed in the tiny village after a terrorist’s bomb exploded on the plane.
News
Eric Trump Stumps For Tenney, Fires Up Supporters For Midterms
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Eric Trump, son of President Donald Trump, fired up a crowd of volunteers and supporters of Rep. Claudia Tenney (R-New Hartford) Tuesday. Trump was at Republican headquarters in New Hartford where he credited Republican tax cuts for creating a hot economy with record low unemployment.
binghamton
$25M In Stadium Upgrades Will Keep Mets Baseball In Syracuse For 25 Years
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SYRACUSE, NY (WRVO) – The New York Mets will stay in Syracuse for the next 25 years, thanks to a deal that will invest $25 million into Onondaga County’s NBT Bank baseball stadium.
binghamton
NY Board of Elections Warns Of Phone Scammers As Voter Registration Deadline Hits
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SYRACUSE, NY (WRVO) – Friday is the last day to register to vote in New York State for November’s general election. The state Board of Elections is warning the public about scammers claiming to register people through phone calls and texts.
binghamton
Age, Taxes, Criminal History Considered As New York Seeks Input On Proposed Party Pot Law
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SYRACUSE, NY (WRVO) – Residents across New York State have been participating in listening sessions on whether the state should legalize recreational marijuana. Most of the people at the listening sessions support a regulated marijuana program, according to Gov. Andrew Cuomo’s office.
Crime and Justice
Sexual Assault Survivors Call For Long-Term Extension Of Violence Against Women Act
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SYRACUSE, NY (WRVO) – The Violence Against Women Act, which provides funding, services and other legislative impacts for domestic and sexual violence survivors, is set to expire at the end of the month. Local advocates are calling on Congress to extend the law.
binghamton
Congress Approves Study Into Fort Ontario’s Designation As National Park
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SYRACUSE, NY (WRVO) – After more than a year, Congress has passed legislation to study the feasibility of designating Fort Ontario and the Safe Haven Holocaust Refugee Shelter Museum in Oswego as a national park.
binghamton
Central NY Congress Members, Candidates React To Latest Trump Tariffs
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SYRACUSE, NY (WRVO) – Rep. John Katko (R-Camillus) and his Democratic opponent Dana Balter are responding to President Donald Trump’s latest round of tariffs, including $200 billion on Chinese goods. Over the past year, reaction to the tariffs have been mixed across the region.
Featured in Category
Katko Claims ‘Red Flag’ Bill Could Have Prevented Parkland Massacre
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SYRACUSE, NY (WRVO) – Law enforcement officials in central New York are supporting “red flag” legislation introduced by Rep. John Katko (R-Camillus). The bill aims to allow police to temporarily restrict access to firearms of an individual at extreme risk to themselves or others.
News
Challenger Says Upstate Economic Development Project ‘Woefully Mismanaged’
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SYRACUSE, NY (WRVO) – It is a David and Goliath battle according to Democratic gubernatorial candidate Cynthia Nixon, in regards to her primary race against Gov. Andrew Cuomo on Sept. 13. But Nixon said she would not be running if she could not win.
Education
New York Schools Increase Security, Safety Measures As Students Return
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SYRACUSE, NY (WRVO) – As the new school year begins, school districts in central New York will begin to implement a list of recommendations to increase school safety following the Parkland, Florida school shooting earlier this year. Onondaga County officials released a school safety task force report last month.
Government
Schumer Remembers Colleague As A Patriot, ‘Always Willing To Reach Across The Aisle’
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Sen. Charles Schumer (D-NY) is remembering the late Sen. John McCain who died Saturday. Schumer has also been pressing to rename a Senate office building in McCain’s honor.
agriculture
NY Dairy Farmers To Ag Secretary: ‘We Go To Work Every Day Losing Money’
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SYRACUSE, NY (WRVO) – Rep. Claudia Tenney (R-New Hartford) hosted U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Sonny Perdue in Cortland to hear the concerns of dairy farmers in the region. Dairy farmers told Perdue about the dire situation the industry is facing.
Government
Advocates For Undocumented Workers Who Need Drivers’ Licenses Call On Governor To Act
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SYRACUSE, NY (WRVO) – As the New York State Fair gets underway, immigration rights advocates are calling attention to the need for undocumented farm workers to be able to drive. Undocumented workers are currently barred from obtaining a driver’s license.
Government
Katko Pushes Bill To Expand Kids Summer Food Program, Confident SNAP Cuts Will Be Restored
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SYRACUSE, NY – During the summer months, the Boys & Girls Club in Syracuse serves hundreds of free meals to kids who lose access to free and reduced meals at school. Rep. John Katko (R-Camillus) is pushing legislation to expand summer food service programs.
binghamton
To Advance His Agenda, Katko Says He’d Host Anyone, Including Trump
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SYRACUSE, NY (WRVO) – Following President Donald Trump’s visit to Fort Drum and Utica Monday, Rep. John Katko (R-Camillus) said he would be willing to host anyone, including the president, if it advances Katko’s agenda for central New York.
binghamton
Anti-Trump Protesters In Watertown Mark President’s Fort Drum visit
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SYRACUSE, NY (WRVO) – President Donald Trump and Vice President Mike Pence were at Fort Drum where Trump signed the National Defense Authorization Act, which included more than $700 billion in military spending.
binghamton
Algae Toxins No Longer Detected In Skaneateles Lake
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SYRACUSE, NY (WRVO) – According to data from the Onondaga County Health Department, no toxins have been detected at the water intake pipes in Skaneateles Lake for the last three days.
binghamton
Algae Toxins Detected In Skaneateles Lake, None In Treated Water
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SYRACUSE, NY (WRVO) – A low level detection of algae toxins, 0.3 parts per billion of toxins known as microcystins, have been found in Skaneateles Lake, according to local and state health officials. The toxins were detected in untreated water during weekly testing. None were found after the water was treated.
binghamton
Brindisi Political Ad Rejected By Spectrum Cable For ‘Disparaging’ Company
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SYRACUSE, NY (WRVO) – A political ad by Democratic congressional candidate Anthony Brindisi has been rejected from airing on Charter Spectrum cable channels. Brindisi said the company is censoring him by refusing to air it.
binghamton
Tenney Pushes For Infrastructure Investment, Touts Tax Overhaul
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SYRACUSE, NY (WRVO) – Rep. Claudia Tenney (R-New Hartford) is calling for more infrastructure investment as she visits a range of different businesses and organizations in her district. She is also highlighting what she calls the positive impact the tax overhaul is having on the upstate economy.
Energy
U.S. Energy Secretary Pushes To ‘Make Nuclear Cool Again’ At FitzPatrick Nuclear Plant
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SYRACUSE, NY (WRVO) – U.S. Energy Secretary Rick Perry and Rep. John Katko (R-Camillus) toured the FitzPatrick Nuclear Power Plant in Oswego County Wednesday as part of his push to “make nuclear cool again.”
News
Balter Refuses Corporate PAC Money, Trails GOP Incumbent By $1.5M
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SYRACUSE, NY (WRVO) – Democratic congressional candidate Dana Balter is refusing to accept donations from corporate PACs, or political action committees. Balter, who is running in the 24th Congressional District, outlined an agenda focused on campaign finance reform, transparency and constituent engagement.
News
Nixon Again Pushes For Gubernatorial Debate But Stalling Could Be Cuomo Strategy
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SYRACUSE, NY (WRVO) – Gov. Andrew Cuomo’s Democratic primary challenger Cynthia Nixon has been calling on Cuomo to have a debate before the primary election in September. But waiting on a debate could be a strategy by the governor.
Government
New York Congress Members React To Trump-Putin meeting: ‘Russia Is Not Our Friend’
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SYRACUSE, NY (WRVO) – Members of Congress from New York are reacting to President Donald Trump’s meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin and Trump’s remarks on Russian meddling in the 2016 election. Democrats and Republicans agree, Russia is not a friend to the U.S.
Government
Algal Blooms: New York State Wants To Upgrade Septics, Stop Invasive Species, Increase Funding
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SYRACUSE, NY (WRVO) The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation released action plans for 12 waterbodies affected by harmful algal blooms. The state is partnering with local communities to reduce and eliminate the blooms.
Government
Schumer, Gillibrand Vow Total Opposition To Kavanaugh Nomination
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SYRACUSE, NY (WRVO) – New York’s senators are vowing to do everything they can to oppose President Donald Trump’s nominee to the Supreme Court, Judge Brett Kavanaugh. Democrats say among the rights that would be threatened, health care is at the top of the list.
binghamton
Ivanka Trump Visits Upstate New York To Highlight Tax Overhaul, Workforce Development
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SYRACUSE, NY (WRVO) – Ivanka Trump, daughter and advisor to President Donald Trump, highlighted the benefits of Republicans’ tax law while in Tully Monday at the Suit-Kote paving company.
Featured in Category
Balter Wins Big In Democratic Primary, Faces Katko in November
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SYRACUSE, NY (WRVO) – Central New York Democrats resoundingly chose Dana Balter over Juanita Perez Williams as their candidate to take on Rep. John Katko (R-Camillus) in November.
Government
After Delay, US House Could Vote Next Week On Compromise Immigration Bill
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SYRACUSE, NY (WRVO) – The House of Representatives is expected to vote on an immigration bill next week, meant to be a compromise among Republicans. Central New York Rep. John Katko (R-Camillus) worked on the bill.
Elections
In Race For New York Governor, Challenger Questions Miner’s Anti-Corruption Stance
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Green Party gubernatorial candidate Howie Hawkins is criticizing former Syracuse Mayor Stephanie Miner as she enters into the governor’s race. But Hawkins admitted her candidacy could end up helping him.
Government
VEEP In Auburn: ‘We Don’t Want Children Taken Away From Their Parents’
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SYRACUSE, NY (WRVO) – Vice President Mike Pence visited central New York Tuesday and said Congress is working on immigration reform this week that will address issues including the separation of children and their families crossing the Southern border.
Featured in Category
New York’s Lt. Governor Stumps For ‘Red Flag’ Gun Bill
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SYRACUSE, NY (WRVO) – Lt. Gov. Kathy Hochul was in Syracuse Monday pushing gun safety legislation meant to address school shootings. The bill, which would prevent individuals from buying or possessing guns who are believed to be a severe threat to themselves or others, is still tied up in the state legislature.
Elections
Economy, Women: 2 Factors That Could Push GOP, Dems To Victory
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SYRACUSE, NY (WRVO) – Members of Congress from New York, on both sides of the aisle, are focusing in on how their parties can win seats in November’s midterm elections. The economy and women are two factors that could push each party towards victory.
Education
Syracuse University Students Suspended Up To 2 Years Over Offensive Videos
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SYRACUSE, NY (WRVO) – A number of Syracuse University fraternity students involved with racist and sexist videos that were released to the public this spring, have been suspended for up to two years.
News
Great Lakes Research Consortium Awards Funds To Address Harmful Algal Blooms
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SYRACUSE, NY (WRVO) – The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation is expected to soon release its management plans to combat harmful algal blooms in 12 lakes, some in central and northern New York.
Arts & Culture
The New York State Fair’s Expo Center Could Attract Larger Shows
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SYRACUSE, NY (WRVO) – A new $62 million Exposition Center at the New York State Fairgrounds is on schedule to be completed and open in time for this year’s fair. The expo center could help the fair recruit larger shows to the region.
Education
Upstate Medical University Official Resigns After Allegedly Faking Stories
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SYRACUSE, NY (WRVO) – A top official at SUNY Upstate Medical University in Syracuse has resigned amid allegations he fabricated stories about his service with the U.S. State Department.
Education
University Professor Says Syracuse Students Involved In Offensive Video Were Denied A Fair Hearing
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SYRACUSE, NY (WRVO) – Disciplinary hearings were held last week for 15 students involved in a racist and sexist fraternity video at Syracuse University. An SU professor advising three of those students at the hearings said it was not an open and fair process.
Government
Katko Claims Tax Reforms Are Working In New York, Critics Disagree
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SYRACUSE, NY (WRVO) – Central New York Rep. John Katko (R-Camillus) said this week that the tax reform law passed last year is helping companies and employees in the region. Katko said the economy is on a path of sustained growth.
Education
Big Upgrades To SU’s ‘Dome’ Will Change Its Iconic Roof
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SYRACUSE, NY (WRVO) – Syracuse University is investing $118 million dollars in renovations to the Carrier Dome as part of SU’s 20-year Campus Framework plan of projects. The renovations include a new roof for the dome, which will change what has been an iconic part of the Syracuse skyline for the past several decades.
Government
Central, Northern NY Members Of Congress Support Trump’s Exit From Iran Nuclear Deal
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SYRACUSE, NY (WRVO) – Local Republican members of Congress are united in supporting President Donald Trump’s decision to withdraw from the Iran nuclear agreement. Rep. John Katko, Rep. Elise Stefanik and Rep. Claudia Tenney said the deal was flawed and gave too many concessions to Iran.
Featured in Category
Immigration Activists Record Border Patrol Agents Questioning Travelers In Syracuse
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SYRACUSE, NY (WRVO) – Immigration activists in Syracuse have been filming federal border patrol agents questioning the citizenship status of travelers at the Regional Transportation Center. But U.S. Customs and Border Protection said those agents are following the law.
Economy
Gillibrand Bill Would Encourage More Employee-Owned Businesses
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SYRACUSE, NY (WRVO) – Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY) is pushing for legislation that would provide more access to funding for employee-owned businesses. Gillibrand said there is an urgency to create more opportunities for retiring baby boomer business owners.
Economy
Restaurant Workers Warn Jobs Will Disappear If NY Eliminates Tip Credits
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SYRACUSE, NY (WRVO) – The New York State Department of Labor is holding hearings across the state to gather input on Gov. Andrew Cuomo’s proposal to eliminate minimum wage tip credits. Many restaurant workers who attended a hearing in Syracuse said they are against the plan.
Elections
New York Candidate Supports Driver’s Licenses For Undocumented Immigrants
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SYRACUSE, NY (WRVO) – Democratic candidate for governor Cynthia Nixon said Gov. Andrew Cuomo could be doing a lot more to protect undocumented immigrants in New York State. This comes after last week’s raid on a dairy farm in Rome by Immigration and Customs Enforcement.
News
DeFrancisco Stops Actively Campaigning For Governor
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SYRACUSE NY (WRVO) – State Sen. John DeFrancisco (R-Syracuse) announced Wednesday that he will no longer actively campaign for governor. The announcement came after an increasing number of Republican county chairs in New York endorsed Dutchess County Executive Marc Molinaro.
Education
Syracuse Students Demand Change To System They Say Oppresses Minorities
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SYRACUSE, NY (WRVO) – Syracuse University students are demanding changes to a system they say is oppressing marginalized groups on campus. This comes in the wake of racist and sexist videos from the Theta Tau fraternity, which got the organization expelled.
Education
Syracuse Students Involved In Racist Frat Videos Could Face Expulsion
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SYRACUSE, NY (WRVO) – Everything is on the table, according to Syracuse University officials, including expulsion, for the 18 students involved in racist videos by the Theta Tau fraternity. SU officials said it will be a fair but expeditious disciplinary process.
Education
Racist Frat Video Shocks, Angers Syracuse University Students
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SYRACUSE, NY (WRVO) – A fraternity at Syracuse University has been suspended after a video was released showing members engaged in extremely racist behavior. Students on campus are shocked and angered by the video.
Food and Farms
Senator Schumer Calls For End To Canadian Program That Hurts New York Dairy Farmers
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SYRACUSE, NY (WRVO) – Sen. Charles Schumer (D-NY) said Monday that now is the time to get Canada to end a program hurting upstate’s dairy industry, as President Donald Trump’s administration renegotiates the North American Free Trade Agreement or NAFTA.
Featured in Category
State AG Pushes For Stronger Date Protection Laws, 9 Million New Yorkers Hit In 2017
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SYRACUSE, NY (WSKG) – More than nine million New Yorkers had their personal data exposed last year according to a new report from state Attorney General Eric Schneiderman. That is more than four times the number of New Yorkers impacted in 2016. The vast majority of the exposed data in 2017 came from the breach at consumer reporting agency Equifax.
Health
Medical Experts Urge Assembly To Require Helmets For Skiers Under 14
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SYRACUSE, NY (WRVO) – Medical professionals at Upstate University Hospital are urging the New York State Assembly to pass legislation that would require skiers and snowboarders under the age of 14 to wear helmets. Experts say injuries on the slopes can be more severe than accidents on bicycles.
Government
Proposed Ride-Hailing Surcharge Could Benefit Mass Transit Systems
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SYRACUSE, NY (WRVO) – The State Assembly is proposing an additional statewide surcharge on ride-hailing services like Uber and Lyft in its spending plan. The funds collected would be used on transportation services.
Government
Schumer Pushes Infrastructure Bill, Claims Republicans Ashamed Of Tax Overhaul
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SYRACUSE, NY (WRVO) – Sen. Charles Schumer (D-NY) joined elected officials and activist groups in Syracuse Monday to protest the Republican tax overhaul passed by Congress in December. Demonstrators fear the tax cuts will be paid for by cutting Social Security, Medicare and Medicaid.
Crime and Justice
Advocates Want Cash Bail Eliminated For Low-Level Offenders
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SYRACUSE, NY (WRVO) Criminal justice advocates are trying to put pressure on Albany to reform the justice system. A local coalition is trying to build support for proposed legislation in Albany that, among other things, eliminates cash bail for misdemeanors or low-level felonies.
economy
National Grid Rate Hikes Approved By State Public Service Commission
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SYRACUSE, NY (WRVO) – The New York State Public Service Commission has approved of National Grid rate hikes. Over the next three years, the monthly electric and gas bills of residential customers could increase by about $16 dollars. The plan includes a discount program for low-income customers.
Education
As NY Police Make Arrests, Experts Say Lack Of Emotional Skills Can Cause School Threats
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SYRACUSE, NY (WRVO) – Many school districts in central and northern New York have faced threats following the Florida high school shooting last month. It has resulted in school shutdowns and arrests of some students for making terroristic threats. As law enforcement aggressively investigates these incidents, some experts say it is a lack of emotional skills that is causing them.
Health
Katko Open To Some New Federal Gun Laws
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SYRACUSE, NY (WRVO) – Rep. John Katko (R-Camillus) said he wants to address the issue of mass shootings, especially in schools., and there are some measures Katko is signaling he could support.
Elections
Balter Wins Democratic Designation For Congress In Onondaga County
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SYRACUSE, NY (WRVO) – Over the weekend, the Onondaga County Democratic Committee chose Syracuse University professor Dana Balter as their congressional candidate in the 24th District.
Featured in Category
Protesters, Some Teachers, Rally For Gun Control Outside Katko’s Office
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Protests outside of central New York Republican Rep. John Katko’s Syracuse office have been ongoing this week, including a rally on gun control. Following last week’s high school shooting in Florida, some of the protesters were teachers who said Katko is doing nothing to fix the problem.
Featured in Category
Gillibrand Pushes Pell Grant Expansion, Calls Trump’s Infrastructure Plan ‘Not Helpful’
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SYRACUSE (WRVO) – Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY) is promoting legislation that would expand access to Pell grants for short-term job training programs. The federal subsidy for students to go to college currently can be used for 15-week job skills training. But Gillibrand said that does not help people who cannot go back to school full-time.