CENTRAL NEW YORK — As colder weather approaches, families and small businesses across Upstate New York are once again bracing for potentially painful winter utility bills — and many ratepayers are asking the same question: Why does it sometimes seem like the cost to deliver our energy is as much as or even more than the energy we actually use? The answer is complicated, and responsibility doesn't fall entirely on either National Grid or New York State. National Grid customers are already in the middle of a three-year rate plan approved by the New York State Public Service Commission in August 2025. Under that agreement, electric delivery revenues were approved to increase by 6.4% in the first rate year, 10.9% in the second and 8.2% in the third. The current second rate year began September 1, 2026. That means the increase hitting customers isn't simply the result of higher electricity or natural-gas prices. A significant portion of the bill is the delivery side — the cost associated with getting electricity or natural gas to homes and businesses. Your Utility Bill Is Really Two Bills in One New York's Department of Public Service explains that utility bills generally contain two major components: Supply is the cost of the electricity or natural gas itself. Delivery covers transporting that energy through the utility's system and includes infrastructure, meters, billing, maintenance and other costs. Supply prices largely fluctuate with energy markets. Delivery rates, on the other hand, are regulated by the New York State Public Service Commission. That's an important distinction. National Grid asks regulators for permission to increase its delivery rates. The PSC then reviews those requests and determines what the utility is ultimately allowed to charge customers. In National Grid's most recent case, the company originally sought a 25.5% increase in electric delivery revenues and 29.7% increase in gas delivery revenues for its first rate year. The PSC ultimately approved substantially smaller increases than National Grid requested. But smaller than the original request doesn't necessarily mean small to the person or business paying the bill. Why Are There So Many Charges Under "Delivery"? This is where many customers become frustrated. A delivery portion of a National Grid bill isn't simply the cost of maintaining the poles and wires outside your home. National Grid's own rate information shows that delivery-related billing can include numerous components and adjustments. Among them are the basic service charge, delivery charges, transmission-related adjustments, legacy transition charges, revenue-decoupling adjustments and other mechanisms. There are also charges tied to public-policy programs. National Grid specifically states that its System Benefits Charge reflects costs associated with mandated programs including low-income assistance, energy-efficiency initiatives, research and development and advancement of renewable-energy resources. So when customers ask whether government policy contributes to the delivery side of their utility bills, the answer is yes, in part. But it would be inaccurate to say that the entire delivery charge is simply New York State collecting money for unrelated projects. Much of it pays for the utility system itself: transmission and distribution infrastructure, meters, maintenance, billing and other regulated costs. Some additional charges and surcharges recover costs connected to programs and policies authorized or required through the state's regulatory structure. $100 or $200 Check Relief or a Drop in the Bucket? New York State is now sending millions of residents one-time Protecting Our Wallets Energy Rebate, or POWER, checks. Qualifying single taxpayers with income of $150,000 or less are eligible for $100. Married couples filing jointly with income of $150,000 or less can receive $200, while qualifying joint filers earning between $150,000 and $300,000 receive $150. The checks are being mailed beginning this fall as part of a roughly $1 billion statewide energy-relief program. For households struggling with energy costs, that money certainly won't hurt. But the larger question is how far a one-time $100 or $200 check goes when customers face recurring utility expenses every month. A $200 check amounts to about $16.67 per month when spread across an entire year. For a household facing hundreds of dollars in winter heating bills, that relief can disappear quickly. And for many small businesses operating larger buildings, storefronts, restaurants, workshops or offices, the scale of their energy expenses can make a household-sized rebate look even smaller by comparison. Small Businesses Can't Simply Absorb Every Increase The impact on small businesses deserves particular attention. When electricity, natural gas, insurance, wages, supplies and other operating expenses rise simultaneously, business owners have limited choices. They can absorb the expense and accept lower profits. They can cut other costs. Or they can raise prices. Eventually, many of those increased expenses work their way down to consumers. A restaurant paying more to heat its building and operate refrigerators, freezers and cooking equipment cannot indefinitely absorb those costs. Neither can a manufacturer, retail store, auto shop, office complex or other local business. Higher utility costs therefore don't necessarily stop with the person whose name appears on the National Grid bill. They can ripple through the local economy. So Who Is Responsible? National Grid or New York State? The most accurate answer is: both have a role, but for different reasons. National Grid operates the infrastructure and files requests seeking higher regulated delivery revenues. New York's Public Service Commission determines what delivery rates the utility is permitted to collect. At the same time, New York law and energy policy require utilities to collect money supporting certain state-mandated programs, which can become components of customer bills. The PSC did significantly reduce National Grid's original rate request before approving its current three-year plan. But customers are still facing approved increases — including the larger second-year increase now taking effect. Meanwhile, New York continues making substantial investments in energy infrastructure and clean-energy programs. Just this month, the Hochul administration announced another nearly $1 billion Sustainable Future Program that includes investments in renewable energy, building programs and energy infrastructure. Those policies have supporters who argue that modernizing the grid and investing in cleaner energy will ultimately improve reliability, reduce emissions and control long-term energy costs. Critics and ratepayers, however, continue questioning how much of that transition should be financed through utility bills — particularly when families and small businesses are already struggling with affordability. The Question Ratepayers Should Be Asking Perhaps the larger issue isn't simply whether National Grid or Albany deserves the blame. It is whether customers can clearly understand exactly where every dollar on their utility bill is going. When a customer sees an energy supply charge followed by delivery-related charges that can represent a substantial portion of the total bill, it's reasonable to ask what those charges are funding. How much maintains poles, wires, gas lines, and substations? How much pays for utility operations? How much represents approved utility investment? How much supports state-mandated programs? And how much are customers ultimately paying because of broader New York energy policy? Those questions become even more important as another Central New York winter approaches. A one-time $100 or $200 rebate check may provide some short-term help, but it doesn't change the monthly rate structure. For families and small businesses already watching every dollar, the bigger concern isn't one winter bill. It's what happens when higher energy costs become the new normal, with no clear end in sight.

CENTRAL NEW YORK — Fall has officially arrived across Central New York, bringing cooler temperatures, shorter days and the brilliant reds, oranges and yellows that make autumn one of the most beautiful times of year in Upstate New York. As leaves begin changing across Oneida, Madison and surrounding counties, residents are preparing for everything that comes with the season — crisp mornings, earlier sunsets, fall festivals, changing foliage and eventually the return of colder weather. But fall is also a good time to take care of a few important safety items around the home. Daylight Saving Time Ends November 1 This year, Daylight Saving Time ends on Sunday, November 1, 2026. At 2:00 a.m., clocks will be turned back one hour to 1:00 a.m., giving most residents an extra hour of sleep but also bringing sunset noticeably earlier in the evening. The twice-a-year clock change has traditionally served as a useful reminder for families to check safety equipment throughout their homes. Check Your Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors As temperatures fall and furnaces, fireplaces and other heating equipment begin seeing more use, residents should make sure their smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors are working properly. The National Fire Protection Association recommends testing smoke alarms at least once a month by pressing the test button. Smoke alarms should generally be replaced when they reach about 10 years old, while batteries in alarms that use replaceable batteries should be changed according to the manufacturer's instructions and whenever a low-battery warning sounds. Carbon monoxide alarms should also be tested monthly. Because CO detectors have a limited service life, homeowners should check the manufacturer's replacement date or replace the unit when its end-of-life warning activates. Carbon monoxide is especially important to think about as heating season begins because homes using fuel-burning furnaces, fireplaces, boilers and other equipment can have potential sources of carbon monoxide. NFPA also recommends having fuel-burning heating equipment and chimneys inspected according to manufacturer instructions. Enjoy the Colors — But Prepare for What Comes Next For now, Central New Yorkers can enjoy one of the most scenic stretches of the year. The changing leaves, cool evenings and fall landscapes are a reminder of why autumn in Upstate New York is so special. But those beautiful fall colors also signal that winter isn't far behind. Before the truly cold weather arrives, take a few minutes to walk through your home, press the test buttons on your smoke and carbon monoxide alarms, check their age and batteries, and make sure your family knows what to do if an alarm sounds.

According to Oneida County Sheriff, Robert Maciol, on September 23, 2026, around 4:08 PM, Deputies were dispatched to a farm on Fuess Cleary Road in the Town of Marshall for a reported farm accident involving a fatality. Due to the nature of the call, members of the Oneida County Sheriff's Office Criminal Investigative Unit and Forensic Identification Unit responded to the scene. A preliminary investigation showed that 27-year-old Hunter Cornelius had been working on a piece of farm equipment, which had been running, and was subsequently entrapped in the equipment. Cornelius was pronounced deceased at the scene. The Oneida County Sheriff's Office was assisted on scene by members of the Waterville Fire Department and the Onondaga County Medical Examiner's Office. Original Press Release: According to Oneida County Sheriff Robert Maciol, Deputies are currently investigating a farm accident on Fuess Cleary Rd in the Town of Marshall. Further details may be released.

ALBANY, N.Y. — New York lawmakers are considering a proposal that could add another $25 annual charge to millions of Upstate vehicle registrations, raising a larger question for working families: At what point do New York's taxes, fees and surcharges become too much? Assembly Bill A10431 would establish a $25-per-year supplemental vehicle registration fee for motorists living outside the Metropolitan Commuter Transportation District. The legislation was introduced March 6, 2026, and remains in the Assembly Transportation Committee. It has not become law. The money collected would be deposited into the state's Public Transportation Systems Operating Assistance account and dedicated to Upstate public transportation systems. But even with that distinction, the proposal raises an important question: Is This Another Way New York Is Squeezing the Working Class? For many Upstate New Yorkers, owning a vehicle isn't a luxury. It's how they get to work. It's how they take their children to school and activities. It's how they get groceries, attend medical appointments and simply function in communities where mass transportation may be limited or impractical. Those motorists already pay registration fees, inspection costs, insurance, gasoline taxes, sales taxes, tolls in some areas and the steadily rising costs of maintaining a vehicle. Now Albany is considering adding another recurring fee. Individually, supporters may argue that $25 a year isn't a large amount. But critics of proposals like this often raise a different question: How many individual $10, $20, $25 and $50 taxes and fees can be added before the cumulative burden becomes significant for working families? A household with several registered vehicles could potentially face the supplemental charge on each qualifying registration. For someone struggling with groceries, heating bills, rent, property taxes, insurance and other household expenses, the debate isn't necessarily about one $25 charge. It's about the accumulation of government-imposed costs. What About New York City? This is where the issue requires some clarification. The proposed $25 fee is not designed to send this new Upstate money to New York City's MTA. Under the legislation, the revenue would support Upstate public transportation systems. And motorists within New York City's Metropolitan Commuter Transportation District are not escaping a comparable charge. They already pay a $25 annual supplemental vehicle registration fee that was established as part of the MTA funding package. The Metropolitan Commuter Transportation District covers New York City and seven surrounding counties. In other words, the proposal would essentially expand that type of registration surcharge to the rest of New York, while directing the new Upstate revenue toward Upstate transit. But that doesn't end the political discussion. It Raises a Bigger Question About How New York Funds Transportation The proposal highlights just how differently New York funds its transportation systems. The New York Public Transit Association says approximately 5 million vehicles are registered across the 50 Upstate counties and estimates that a $25 fee could raise more than $100 million annually for Upstate transit. The organization argues that Upstate transit lacks the dedicated revenue streams available to Downstate transportation systems and says a predictable funding source is needed as traditional petroleum-tax revenues become less reliable. That argument deserves consideration. But so does the other side: Why should owning a personal vehicle automatically make someone responsible for providing another dedicated funding stream for public transportation? And if public transit is considered an essential public service that benefits the entire economy, another question follows: Why shouldn't it be funded more broadly through the state's existing revenues rather than attaching another annual fee specifically to vehicle owners? Upstate vs. Downstate Politics Will Inevitably Enter the Conversation Transportation spending has long been part of the broader political debate over how Albany distributes money between New York City, its suburbs and Upstate New York. The state's transit funding structure already contains numerous revenue streams specifically connected to Downstate transportation, including taxes and fees supporting the MTA, while Upstate systems receive their own state operating assistance. The New York Public Transit Association itself argues that Upstate systems lack the number of dedicated funding sources available Downstate. That makes this proposal unusual. Rather than asking Upstate motorists to directly finance New York City's subway system, Albany would be taking a funding mechanism already used Downstate and applying a similar charge Upstate. For supporters, that represents funding parity. For motorists who oppose the fee, it may look like something entirely different: Instead of reducing the number of transportation taxes and fees New Yorkers already pay, state government would simply expand another one statewide. And Once a Fee Exists, Does It Stay at $25? There is also a longer-term question worth asking. The proposed legislation establishes the fee at $25 annually. But future legislatures can change state law. That means motorists may reasonably want to know whether $25 is intended to remain $25 indefinitely or whether the registration surcharge could eventually be increased as transportation costs rise. That isn't a prediction that lawmakers will raise it. It's simply one of the policy questions residents may want answered before another recurring fee is created. The Real Debate May Be Bigger Than $25 New York's public transportation systems provide important services, particularly for seniors, people with disabilities, lower-income residents and workers without reliable transportation. The question isn't necessarily whether those services have value. The question is: Who should pay for them — and how much more should New York's motorists be expected to contribute? At a time when many families are already watching every dollar, Albany may have to convince Upstate drivers that another mandatory annual vehicle charge is the right solution. Because to a working family, this may not feel like "just $25." It may feel like one more fee added to an already expensive cost of living in New York. WHAT DO YOU THINK? Is the proposed $25 vehicle registration fee a reasonable way to provide dedicated funding for Upstate public transportation? Or is this simply another example of New York adding another fee to working families who are already paying enough? And should public transportation be funded from existing state revenues instead of adding another charge to vehicle ownership?

According to Oneida County Sheriff's, a man from the Town of Lee was arrested following an investigation. On July 14th, 2026, Deputies were dispatched to an address in the Town of Vernon for a complaint involving a physical altercation. Through the deputies' investigation they learned a female victim was subjected to unwanted sexual contact and was struck by a male during the course of a physical altercation. Due to the nature of the complaint, the investigation was turned over to members of the Oneida County Criminal Investigative Unit (CIU). Investigators located the male from the town of Lee, 40-year-old Christopher Waller, and charged him with one count of forcible touching, a Class A misdemeanor pursuant to section 130.52(1) of the New York State Penal Law, and one count of Assault in the Third Degree, a Class A misdemeanor pursuant to section 120.00(1) of the New York State Penal Law. Christopher was then issued an appearance ticket returnable to Vernon Town Court on a later date and time.

September 23, 2026 | Syracuse, NY Investigators Seize Cocaine, Crack Cocaine, Suboxone, Shotgun and More Than $8,000 in Cash Two people were arrested Tuesday after New York State Police executed a search warrant at a Syracuse residence, resulting in the seizure of suspected narcotics, a shotgun, drug paraphernalia and thousands of dollars in cash. On September 22, 2026, at approximately 10:00 a.m., members of the New York State Police Troop D Violent Gang and Narcotics Enforcement Team (VGNET), with assistance from the Special Operations Response Team (SORT), Community Stabilization Unit (CSU), Bureau of Criminal Investigation (BCI), uniformed Troopers and a State Police K9, executed a search warrant at 1208 James Street in the City of Syracuse. According to State Police, investigators seized approximately: 155.9 grams of cocaine 22.2 grams of crack cocaine Numerous Suboxone strips A 12-gauge shotgun Digital scales Packaging materials A cutting agent $8,277 in U.S. currency Two People Arrested Akeem R. Brown, 42, was arrested and charged with: Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance in the Second Degree — Class A-II felony Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance in the Third Degree — Class B felony Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance in the Seventh Degree — Class A misdemeanor Three counts of Criminally Using Drug Paraphernalia — Class A misdemeanor Quanisha D. Duncan, 30, was arrested and charged with: Failure to Safely Store Rifles, Shotguns, and Firearms in the First Degree — Class A misdemeanor Brown and Duncan were taken into custody and transported to State Police North Syracuse for processing. State Police said Duncan was subsequently released on an appearance ticket, while Brown was transported to the Onondaga County Justice Center for arraignment. The investigation was conducted with assistance from the Syracuse Police Department and the FBI. As with all criminal charges, the defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in court.

The Oneida County Health Department, in coordination with the New York State Office of Cannabis Management and the Oneida County Sheriff’s Office, seized nearly 200 kratom products, 2,000 flavored vapes and an unspecified amount of cannabis after an inspection conducted Wednesday at Brooklyn Exotics in Rome. During the Sept. 16 inspection of Brooklyn Exotics located at 401 Black River Boulevard N., the Health Department seized 1,950 flavored vapor products, 184 kratom products and one unlabeled pre-packaged product containing an unidentified substance. Office of Cannabis Management (OCM) personnel separately seized an unspecified amount of cannabis located at the establishment. Upon completion of the inspection, OCM padlocked the premises. “Together with our state and local partners, we continue to take action when businesses are found to be selling products that violate the law,” said Oneida County Executive Anthony J. Picente Jr. “This latest inspection in Rome demonstrates that these enforcement efforts are ongoing and that we will continue working to protect the health and safety of our residents.” This latest inspection is the eighth establishment targeted through coordinated enforcement efforts involving the Health Department since July. To date, the following establishments have been inspected: Talk Talk Inc., Clinton – July 9: 929 flavored vapor products seized West Main Deli & Tobacco Inc., Boonville – August 6: 1,000 flavored vapor products and 77 kratom products seized Z1 Smoke Shop, Boonville – August 6: 137 flavored vapor products and 23 kratom products seized UT One Corporation, Utica – August 27: 589 flavored vapor products, 30 packets of 7-OH and one package containing an unidentified substance seized Mr. Romano Convenience Market, Utica – August 27: 50 suspected synthetic cannabis packages seized Aden Shop, Utica – August 28: 97 kratom products seized Dalaly Deli Corp., Utica – September 3: 30 suspected packets of K2 seized Including the September 16 inspection, OCHD has seized more than 4,600 flavored vapor products and more than 400 kratom products through these eight enforcement actions, in addition to synthetic cannabis products, K2, 7-OH and other items. The enforcement actions have involved the Health Department working alongside various local, state and federal partners, including the Sheriff’s Office, the Oneida County District Attorney’s Office, OCM, New York State Department of Taxation and Finance, local police departments, the U.S. Marshals Service and the FBI Joint Terrorism Task Force, depending on the individual investigation. The investigations and enforcement actions remain ongoing. Sources: https://oneidacountyny.gov/news/kratom-cannabis-and-flavored-vapes-seized-from-shuttered-rome-shop/

New York anglers can fish without a license this Saturday as fall fishing season gets underway September 22, 2026 Fall is officially here, and New York anglers have a good reason to get outside this weekend. The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) has announced that Saturday, September 26, 2026, will be a statewide Free Fishing Day, allowing residents and visitors to fish New York's fresh waters without purchasing a fishing license. The annual event gives experienced anglers a chance to enjoy some fall fishing while providing an opportunity for people who have never tried the sport to give it a shot. According to DEC Commissioner Amanda Lefton, New York offers fishing opportunities ranging from Great Lakes tributaries and scenic lakes to smaller streams and waterways throughout the state. “Whether it’s chasing salmon on a Great Lakes tributary, pursuing bass on a scenic lake, or casting a line in a local stream, there’s something here for everyone,” Commissioner Lefton said. No Fishing License Required Saturday During New York's designated Free Fishing Days, the state's freshwater fishing license requirement is temporarily waived. That means both New York residents and non-residents can fish without a fishing license on September 26. However, anglers should keep in mind that the license waiver does not eliminate other fishing regulations. Size limits, catch limits, seasons, special regulations and other requirements remain in effect. The 2026 New York State Freshwater Fishing Regulations Guide confirms September 26 as one of the state's designated Free Fishing Days. A Chance to Introduce Someone to Fishing The September 26 Free Fishing Day also coincides with National Hunting and Fishing Day, a national observance established by Congress in 1972 to encourage people to experience and appreciate outdoor recreation and America's natural resources. For families, friends and first-time anglers, the weekend can be an easy opportunity to head to a nearby lake, pond or stream and spend a few hours outdoors. You don't need to be an experienced fisherman to get started. A basic fishing rod, some bait or lures and a little patience can be enough to make a first trip to the water. DEC Offers Free Fishing Clinics For those who want to learn more before heading out, DEC and its partners offer free “Learn to Fish” clinics throughout the year. These programs can cover topics including: How to properly cast a fishing rod Fish identification Fishing safety Local fishing opportunities Fishing regulations Aquatic resource stewardship DEC regularly adds new clinics and events, so anglers interested in participating are encouraged to check the agency's schedule. Finding a Place to Fish Not sure where to go? DEC maintains an online Places to Fish resource featuring publicly accessible fishing locations throughout New York. Anglers can also use the DECinfo Locator Map and the Tackle Box feature in the HuntFishNY mobile app to find fishing locations and information about amenities such as parking and boat launches. For people completely new to freshwater fishing, DEC's I FISH NY Beginners' Guide to Freshwater Fishing provides information on everything from setting up a fishing rod to identifying fish and understanding New York's fishing regulations. One More Free Fishing Day Coming in 2026 If you can't make it out this Saturday, there will be one more statewide Free Fishing Day later this year. The final 2026 Free Fishing Day will be Wednesday, November 11, Veterans Day. New York's Free Fishing Days are a chance to experience the state's freshwater fishing opportunities without the usual fishing license requirement, but all other applicable fishing regulations remain in effect. Outside of designated Free Fishing Days, anyone 16 years of age or older generally needs a current New York State freshwater fishing license to fish. The 2026 regulations guide states that fishing licenses are valid for 365 days from the date of purchase. So if you've been thinking about taking the kids fishing, trying out a new spot or simply spending a fall day along the water, Saturday, September 26, is a good opportunity to grab a fishing rod and head outside. For More Information For fishing regulations, public fishing locations, free fishing clinics and information on obtaining a New York State fishing license, visit the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation's freshwater fishing resources. Source: New York State Department of Environmental Conservation

VERNON, N.Y. — The Volunteer Fire Company of Vernon has received some major good news that will help modernize critical firefighting and emergency-response equipment while reducing the financial burden on local taxpayers. The department announced that it has been awarded $105,500 through the FY2025 FEMA Assistance to Firefighters Grant (AFG) program. The funding will be used to replace and purchase several important pieces of equipment used by Vernon’s volunteer firefighters during emergency calls. According to the department, the grant will allow the fire company to: Replace aging attack hose Replace supply hose Purchase new firefighting nozzles Replace an aging AED Add a wildland firefighting skid for the department’s UTV Purchase 10 new sets of firefighter turnout gear These upgrades are especially important because firefighting equipment is subjected to extreme conditions and regular wear. Turnout gear, hose, nozzles, and emergency medical equipment are critical not only to the people firefighters are responding to help, but also to protecting the volunteers entering dangerous situations. The department noted that the federal grant will make these upgrades possible without requiring additional funding from the Town or Village. $5,100 Still Needed for Required Local Contribution While the federal award represents a major investment in the Vernon Fire Company, there is still a local financial obligation that must be met. The department says it is responsible for a $5,100 required non-federal contribution associated with the grant. That means the fire company is asking residents, businesses and community supporters who are able to help to consider making a donation toward the $5,100 local share. For a volunteer fire company, even a relatively small required match can represent a significant fundraising obligation. Contributions from the community would allow the department to satisfy that requirement while preserving other fire company funds for operations, maintenance, training and future equipment needs. Every donation — large or small — can help Vernon reach the $5,100 goal. The grant also demonstrates how federal funding can help local volunteer departments replace expensive safety equipment without placing the entire cost on local residents. Vernon Fire Company Also Seeking New Members In addition to donations, the Volunteer Fire Company of Vernon is encouraging residents interested in serving their community to consider becoming members. The department says people from a variety of backgrounds and experience levels can find a place within the organization. Those interested in donating or becoming a member can visit www.vernonfd.org or stop by the firehouse on a Tuesday at 7 p.m. the Direct link to make a donation is : https://www.paypal.com/donate/?hosted_button_id=NHUHT6JP8AYXQ For the Volunteer Fire Company of Vernon, the $105,500 FEMA award represents a significant step toward providing its firefighters with updated equipment — and now the department is hoping the community will help it complete the final $5,100 local commitment needed as part of the grant.

According to Oneida County Sheriff Robert M. Maciol, Over recent months, the Oneida County Sheriff's Office has responded to a residence on Hillsboro Rd, in the Town of Camden, on multiple dates and times regarding suspects breaking into a residence that sustained damage from a structure fire. On September 5th, 2026, at approximately 1:38am, Road Patrol Deputies were dispatched to a residence on Hillsboro Rd, in the Town of Camden, regarding a burglary in progress. Responding deputies were advised by the 911 center that the complainant observed people on camera breaking into their residence. Further investigation was completed by members of the Oneida County Sheriff's Office Criminal Investigations Unit. As a result, Jessica L. Centro (40) of Annsville, Harley D. Longamore (34) of Vienna and Corey J. Kirk (31) of Camden were arrested and charged with Attempted Burglary in the Third Degree (E Felonies). All (3) individuals were processed at the Camden Field Office, released and issued Appearance Tickets returnable to Camden Town Court at a later date.

According to Oneida County Sheriff Robert Maciol, a Town of Ava Woman was arrested for Driving While Intoxicated following a Town of Lee woman being injured from a personal injury motor vehicle accident. On Tuesday, September 22, 2026, at or around 9:32 PM, Oneida County Sheriff's Deputies came across a two-vehicle personal injury motor vehicle accident in the vicinity of State Route 26 and Weaver Road in the Town of Lee while on routine patrol. Deputies determined that Cearria J. Anson (age 26) of Ava was operating a 2017 Nissan Rogue in an Easterly direction on Weaver Road when she failed to yield the right of way at the intersection of Weaver Road and State Route 26. Anson then struck a 2017 Subaru Forester, being operated by Heidi L. Mantelli (age 62) of Lee who was traveling in a Southerly direction on State Route 26. Mantelli was treated on scene for injuries sustained to her chest from the airbag deployment and was then transported to Rome Memorial Hospital for further treatment. Subsequent to investigation by Deputies, Anson was taken into custody for Driving While Intoxicated. Following processing, Anson was then released to a third party with citations returnable to the Town of Lee Court at a later date. The Sheriff's Office was assisted on scene by Amcare Ambulance and the Lee Center Fire Department.

A basic under-the-hood check that truck owners have performed for generations is reportedly disappearing from Chevrolet’s newest Silverado V8 engines. Chevrolet is moving toward a more digital approach under the hood of its next-generation Silverado 1500, and one of the changes could have longtime truck owners doing a double take. The new sixth-generation 5.7-liter and 6.6-liter V8 engines coming to the 2027 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 reportedly will not have a traditional engine-oil dipstick. Instead, drivers will rely on an electronic oil-level monitoring system displayed through the truck’s digital instrumentation or infotainment system. The change was reported by GM Authority as General Motors prepares to launch its newest generation of small-block V8 engines. From Pulling a Dipstick to Checking a Screen For decades, checking engine oil has been one of the simplest maintenance procedures a vehicle owner could perform. Park on level ground, shut off the engine, pull the dipstick, wipe it clean, insert it again and check the oil level. On the new V8-powered Silverado, that familiar routine is apparently going away. Instead, the truck's electronics will determine the engine-oil level and provide that information digitally to the driver. That represents a significant change from current Silverado models. Chevrolet's own parts catalog lists conventional engine-oil dipsticks for Silverado 1500 models through the 2026 model year. Not Every 2027 Silverado Is Necessarily Losing the Dipstick There is an important distinction. The reported change specifically concerns GM's new sixth-generation V8 engines — the 5.7L L76 and 6.6L L78. Chevrolet has officially confirmed that the redesigned 2027 Silverado 1500 will offer four engine choices, including the new 5.7L and 6.6L V8s, an upgraded TurboMax four-cylinder and the 3.0L Duramax turbo-diesel. So headlines saying Chevrolet is eliminating the dipstick from every Silverado go farther than what has currently been reported. Chevy Is Putting More Technology Into the Silverado The disappearance of the physical dipstick comes as Chevrolet pushes significantly more technology into its redesigned truck. GM says the 2027 Silverado and GMC Sierra will debut a new digital user interface designed around larger displays, integrated vehicle information and an architecture capable of receiving over-the-air software updates. Chevrolet calls the next-generation 2027 Silverado its most powerful and advanced Silverado to date. The truck is scheduled to become available beginning in late 2026. Convenience or Too Much Technology? The change is likely to generate plenty of discussion among pickup owners. An electronic oil-level sensor can allow drivers to check the oil without opening the hood, pulling a potentially hot dipstick or interpreting an oil line manually. But the traditional dipstick has another advantage: simplicity. It gives an owner a direct mechanical way to confirm how much oil is in the engine without depending entirely on a sensor, computer module or display. That distinction may be particularly important to truck owners who perform their own maintenance, tow heavy loads, operate equipment in demanding conditions or simply prefer having a physical way to double-check what the vehicle's electronics are reporting. The move also reflects a broader trend in modern vehicles: more functions that were once mechanical are increasingly being monitored and controlled electronically. For Silverado owners, even something as basic as checking the oil is becoming part of that transition. What Do You Think? Is replacing the traditional oil dipstick with a digital oil-level system a smart upgrade — or is Chevrolet making something simple unnecessarily complicated? Would you trust the electronic sensor, or would you rather be able to pop the hood and check the oil yourself?