In recognition of Suicide Prevention Month, Oneida County will host a special two-day training event featuring national advocates Kevin Briggs and Kevin Berthia that will coincide with a series of awareness-raising activities. The training sessions, titled “Mental Illness Contact & Post-Incident Mental Health,” will be tailored to law enforcement members on Sept.18 and to first responders; mental health professionals and advocates; health and human services workers; community helpers; students majoring in criminal justice and/or behavioral health; and those involved in the mental health, behavioral health and substance use fields on Sept. 19. Briggs, a retired California Highway Patrol officer known as the “Guardian of the Golden Gate Bridge” for helping save more than 200 lives from suicide, and Berthia, a suicide survivor who was talked down from the bridge by Briggs in 2005, will share their powerful perspectives on suicide prevention, mental health and resilience. “Suicide prevention requires compassion, understanding and strong community partnerships,” said Oneida County Executive Anthony J. Picente Jr. “Hosting Kevin Briggs and Kevin Berthia provides a unique opportunity to learn from two voices who have lived this struggle firsthand and dedicated their lives to helping others.” The training sessions are not open to the public and registration is now closed. In addition to the Briggs and Berthia trainings, the Oneida County Department of Mental Health, is hosting a series of activities for County employees throughout September to promote awareness and encourage healing. These include: Dog therapy sessions with therapy animals and handlers. Relaxation and wellness activities, such as yoga and aromatherapy. An awareness walk around the County Office Building in Utica. A dress down day fundraiser to support prevention efforts. A community-wide event called “Chalk the Walk” on Sept. 24, in which messages of support for survivors of suicide are encouraged to be written on sidewalks throughout the county. The County Office Building and Parking Garage in downtown Utica have been lit up purple and teal, the colors of suicide prevention awareness. “These activities are designed to engage employees and the community in showing support for survivors, breaking the stigma around mental health and reinforcing the message that help and hope are available,” said Mental Health Commissioner Ashlee Thompson. If you or someone you know is struggling, help is available. Call or text 988  for the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline and be connected with trained crisis counselors, available 24/7. In addition, Oneida County residents can download the OC C.A.R.E.S. app , a free resource that connects users to local mental health, behavioral health and crisis services. The app provides quick access to support for individuals and families in need. It’s available here: https://apps.myocv.com/share/a132613501 . Source: https://oneidacountyny.gov/news/oneida-county-to-host-suicide-prevention-training-with-national-advocates-kevin-briggs-and-kevin-berthia/

This is an official press release from the White House. President Donald J. Trump’s bold action  to deploy federal resources to Memphis marks a powerful step forward in the fight to make the city safe again amid its longtime struggle  with violent crime . This bold federal-state partnership  drew immediate praise from residents, business owners, and area lawmakers as a transformative step to reclaim the city from violent crime and chaos. Residents, who have endured escalating dangers, hailed it as a long-overdue lifeline: “This is an opportunity for us and for our city. I hope we make the most of it,”   says  an East Memphis business owner. “I don’t even feel safe anymore except for the places I know they have security guards… You really don’t know how bad it is in Memphis unless you’ve been a part of it for 40 or 50 years… This has been needing to be done for a long time,”   says  a longtime Memphis resident. “If [the National Guard] is going to be a buffer between them and the police to help minimize the crime, then that’s a great thing,”   says  a Memphis woman whose son was recently shot and killed trying to break up a fight in the city. “I have armed security seven days a week and it’s unbelievable what happens every day in front of my restaurant. Without a doubt, [the federal deployment] will help,”   says  a Memphis restaurant owner. “We just offered any of them that want to come in a free lunch plate just to say thank you for coming in and helping with the crime issue… I’m very concerned about crime, like everybody else… We’ve closed earlier and earlier and earlier because there’s no traffic on the streets [due to crime],”   says  another restaurant owner in Memphis. “President Donald Trump… is finally saying, ‘Yes, Memphis matters. We are going to make Memphis safe again’ — because our local leaders have failed to do so,”   says  one Memphis resident. Elected officials expressed gratitude for the Trump Administration’s commitment to public safety: Gov. Bill Lee : “We do have a desire in Tennessee to partner with the Trump Administration. The first thing I want to say is thank you to President Trump. We requested, and he is providing, a full complement of federal resources to address crime — which is a serious problem in a great city… We’ve been working with the Trump Administration for months on a strategy for Memphis… We now will have resources to finally address an issue that has really dragged on for way too long.” Sen. Marsha Blackburn : “Tennesseans are grateful for what the Trump administration is doing to rid Memphis of violent crime and restore law and order in this great city. This is a long-term effort to Make Memphis Safe Again. Thank you, @realDonaldTrump!” Sen. Bill Hagerty : “I thank President Trump… This is an extraordinary display of federal, state, and local governments coming together and setting partisan politics aside to do what’s in the best interest of Americans and keep their communities safe.” Rep. David Kustoff:  “I support President Trump’s decision to send the National Guard to Memphis. I thank the President for his commitment to curb violent crime. It is important for the long term success in Memphis to have additional and permanent federal law enforcement officers and agents who can work in conjunction with state and local officials. I will continue to work with the White House to secure these important resources.” State Sen. Brent Taylor : “While Democrats refuse the help, I’m grateful for President Trump’s willingness to send federal resources to Memphis. We don’t have to live this way. Safe and clean streets are in our future, and I appreciate all who partner with us to make our community a better place to raise a family.” State Rep. John Gillespie : “I’m grateful to @POTUS, Sen. @MarshaBlackburn, & @GovBillLee for working together to protect the Memphis community. I’m encouraged about the National Guard deployment to Memphis. The additional resources will bolster state & local law enforcement efforts to get control of crime.” Sources: https://www.whitehouse.gov/articles/2025/09/memphis-welcomes-president-trumps-action-to-restore-public-safety/

Good news for homebuyers and homeowners: mortgage rates just hit their lowest point since late 2022, marking three straight weeks of declines. According to Mortgage News Daily, the average rate on a 30-year fixed mortgage dropped to 6.13%  on Tuesday — a 12-basis-point dip from the day before. Why Are Rates Dropping? The decline comes as investors pile into mortgage-backed bonds, anticipating an interest rate cut by the Federal Reserve. Lower bond yields generally translate into cheaper borrowing costs, which is why we’re now seeing relief in mortgage rates. What It Means for Buyers More Buying Power:  Lower rates mean your monthly mortgage payment goes down. For a $350,000 home with 20% down, today’s rate could save you more than $150 per month compared to where rates stood just weeks ago. Competitive Advantage:  With affordability improving, more buyers may jump back into the market. Acting sooner rather than later could help you avoid increased competition. What It Means for Homeowners Time to Refinance:  If you purchased or refinanced when rates were higher, now may be a good time to revisit your options. Even a small drop in rates can add up to thousands in savings over the life of a loan. Boost for Sellers:  Lower rates can bring more buyers into the market, which could help homes sell faster — and possibly at higher prices. Should You Make a Move Now? Experts caution that while rates are falling, they’re still above the ultra-low levels seen during the pandemic. The future path will depend on inflation data and the Federal Reserve’s next moves. Still, this dip presents an opportunity for those who have been waiting for more favorable conditions. 👉 Tip:  If you’re thinking about buying or refinancing, talk to a lender soon. Rate environments can change quickly, and even a small shift can impact affordability. Sources: Mortgage News Daily – Daily mortgage rate trends CNBC – Mortgage rates drop ahead of Fed decision White House Press Release  – Statement on mortgage rates and affordability

VERONA, N.Y. – The community is invited to a special dinner with a spooky twist — “Ghouls and Goulash”  — taking place on Saturday, October 11th, from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m.  at the Majestic Venue (formerly the Verona Methodist Church), 5694 E. Main Street, Verona. RSVP Here: https://www.facebook.com/share/14L5UEnVHoG/ For just a small donation, guests can enjoy a delicious homemade meal featuring a serving of hearty goulash, tossed salad, a roll, and a small dessert.  Meals will be available for both eat-in and take-out. Donation:  $5.00 for ages 11 and up, $1.00 for ages 10 and under. To make the afternoon even more festive, the Majestic Venue will be transformed with family-friendly Halloween decorations. Diners can share their meal surrounded by pumpkins, witches, ghosts, and a few spooky surprises —all in good fun. The event is sponsored by My Upstate NY Marketing, along with its customers and volunteers,  and proceeds will go to benefit the Verona Food Pantry. Organizers encourage everyone to stop by, enjoy a warm meal, and connect with neighbors while supporting a great local cause. 📅 When:  2 p.m. – 5 p.m. 📍 Where:  Majestic Venue, 5694 E. Main St., Verona (back hall) 💲 Cost:  $5 (ages 11+), $1 (ages 10 & under) Come hungry, bring your friends and family, and help make a difference in Verona — one bowl of goulash at a time!

VERONA, N.Y.  — According to Oneida County Sheriff Robert Maciol, a Verona woman was arrested on September 12, 2025, following a months-long animal cruelty investigation at MC Stables in the Town of Verona. The case began on July 3, 2025, when the Sheriff’s Criminal Investigation Unit received a complaint about multiple malnourished horses at the property. Deputies, along with members of the Road Patrol Unit, responded to check on the animals’ welfare. During the investigation, 17 horses were located and evaluated on scene by a local veterinarian  using the Henneke Scoring System. Each of the horses was scored poorly, with one suffering from untreated injuries that caused its condition to deteriorate. That horse was ultimately euthanized. MC Stables, which provided boarding, training, and racing services for multiple horse owners, came under scrutiny as owners were contacted and began removing their animals from the facility. On September 8, 2025, the Sheriff’s Office executed a search warrant and removed the remaining horses, who were then placed with volunteers for care and rehabilitation. The case was referred to the Oneida County District Attorney’s Office for grand jury consideration. On September 11, 2025, an indictment warrant was issued for Misty Carey, 49, owner of MC Stables , charging her with: 17 counts  of Agriculture and Markets Law: Overdriving, torturing and injuring animals; failure to provide proper sustenance (Class A misdemeanors) 1 count  of Agriculture and Markets Law: Aggravated cruelty to animals (Class E felony) Carey was taken into custody on September 12 by investigators and road patrol deputies and processed at the Kurt B. Wyman Law Enforcement Building. She was later transported to the Oneida County Jail pending arraignment. On September 15, 2025, Carey was arraigned in County Court and released on her own recognizance. Sheriff Maciol credited the assistance of the Rome Humane Society, Rovers Do Over, Leatherstocking Veterinary Services, Oneida Equine Service, and numerous volunteers who helped ensure the safety and care of the animals during the investigation. Sources: https://sheriff.oneidacountyny.gov/news/68c859c18a2ad3e33a0e03b4/

There’s nothing better than walking through your front door and feeling instantly at home. The right furniture can make a huge difference — whether you’re curling up on a cozy sofa, gathering around the dining table with family, or finally upgrading that mattress for a better night’s sleep. That’s where Carl’s Wholesale Furniture Warehouse in New Hartford  comes in! Carl’s has built a reputation for helping Central New Yorkers turn houses into homes — without draining their wallets! Here are also some of the deals going on now for a limited time! The Carl’s Difference So, what makes Carl’s stand out? For starters, everything is in stock. That means no waiting months for delivery or worrying about backorders. Buy it today, and you can pick it up or have it delivered the same day . And then there’s the pricing — Carl’s guarantees the lowest prices in the area. We’re talking sectionals, sofas, loveseats, dining sets, mattresses, power lift chairs, and even top grain leather furniture at prices that will surprise you. (Right now, leather sofas and loveseats start at just $599 each — yes, real leather.) Stress-Free Shopping Shopping for furniture can be overwhelming, but Carl’s team makes it easy. They’ll help you find exactly what works for your style, space, and budget. And if you’re worried about financing, don’t be — Carl’s offers no credit needed financing with as little as $10 down right now! (Offers may change and expire over time) Supporting Local, Living Better Beyond the deals and fast delivery, Carl’s is a local business that’s proud to be part of the New Hartford community. When you shop there, you’re not just getting great furniture — you’re supporting a family-owned company that cares about its neighbors. So, whether you’re looking to refresh a single room or give your whole home a makeover, Carl’s is the kind of place that makes it easy, affordable, and stress-free! 📍 Carl’s Wholesale Furniture Warehouse 23 New Hartford Shopping Center (around the back)New Hartford, NY 13413 📞 (315) 793-9999 🌐 www.mycarls.com 💥 Stop in today — your new favorite piece might be waiting for you in the warehouse.

DELAWARE COUNTY, N.Y.  – New York State Police say 3 businesses were ticketed for selling alcohol to a minor during an Underage Drinking Detail conducted on September 5, 2025, in Delaware County. The following businesses failed compliance checks: Stewarts Shops , Lake Street, Stamford NY Margaretville Liquor Store , Main Street, Margaretville NY Margaretville Wine & Liquor , State Highway 28, Arkville NY Employees at each business were issued appearance tickets for violating New York State ABC Law, which prohibits the sale of alcohol to anyone under 21. Businesses That Passed the Check Seven businesses were recognized for being in full compliance during the operation: Sunoco, Harper Street, Stamford Mirabito, Main Street, Hobart Roxbury Wine & Spirits, State Highway 30, Roxbury Sunoco, State Highway 30, Roxbury Sunoco, Main Street, Margaretville Speedway, State Highway 28, Margaretville It’s Five O’Clock Somewhere, Main Street, Stamford According to State Police, these compliance checks involve a plainclothes Trooper and one or more underage operatives. The underage participants are not permitted to lie about their age or present false identification if asked. Sources: https://troopers.ny.gov/news/three-ticketed-after-selling-alcohol-minor-during-underage-drinking-detail-delaware-county

COHOES, N.Y.  – New York State Police and the Cohoes Police Department are investigating a homicide that took place on Earl Lynn Court in Cohoes on Sunday, September 14, 2025. Investigators say the suspect, Anthony G. Bechand , 53, remains at large and should be considered armed and dangerous. Bechand is described as a white male, about 5 feet 11 inches tall, weighing 180 pounds, with hazel eyes and brown hair. His clothing at the time of the incident is unknown. Authorities say Bechand had been traveling in a white 2024 Chevrolet Silverado, which was found earlier Sunday on County Route 60 near County Route 86 in the Town of Brighton, Franklin County. State Police urge anyone who sees Bechand or has information about his location to immediately call 518-897-2000 . Officials warn the public not to approach him. Sources: https://troopers.ny.gov/news/state-police-and-cohoes-police-investigating-homicide-suspect-large

UTICA, N.Y.  – Justin Torres, 37, of Ellenville, New York, has been sentenced to 37 months in federal prison for conspiring to distribute fentanyl and cocaine. He will also serve a 3-year term of supervised release and pay a $5,000 fine. Federal prosecutors say Torres admitted to distributing about 580 grams of cocaine and 200 grams of fentanyl as part of a larger drug conspiracy in Ulster County. He is one of 11 defendants charged in the case. Sentences for Co-Defendants Joshuan Atkinson  – 156 months in prison, 5 years supervised release Christopher Baez  – 71 months in prison, 5 years supervised release Michael Herry  – 27 months in prison, 3 years supervised release Daryl Livingston  – 24 months in prison, 3 years supervised release Joshua Morales  – scheduled for sentencing on December 3, 2025 Joseph Logan  – scheduled for sentencing on November 19, 2025 Timothy Hutcherson  – scheduled for sentencing on December 17, 2025 Officials Speak Out Acting U.S. Attorney John A. Sarcone III  said the case shows the importance of federal and local cooperation in dismantling drug trafficking organizations. He also strongly criticized New York’s cashless bail law, calling it “reckless and dangerous.” Ricky J. Patel , Special Agent in Charge of Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) New York, said the case cut off a narcotics pipeline before more drugs could reach communities. Ulster County Sheriff Juan Figueroa  praised the collaboration among federal, state, and local agencies, noting the link between drug trafficking and rising crime. Investigation Details The case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations, the Ulster County Sheriff’s Office, the Ulster Regional Gang Enforcement Narcotics Team (URGENT), New York State Police, the Village of Ellenville Police Department, and the White Plains Police Department, with help from the Ulster County District Attorney’s Office. Assistant U.S. Attorney Ashlyn Miranda prosecuted the case. This prosecution was part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF)  operation, a national program targeting high-level drug trafficking organizations. Sources: https://www.justice.gov/usao-ndny/pr/member-ulster-county-drug-trafficking-organization-sentenced-prison

Press Release: This morning, President Donald J. Trump announced  plans to deploy federal resources to Memphis, Tennessee, as part of the Trump Administration’s aggressive push to dismantle the rampant violent crime fueled by failed Democrat governance in major cities. With Memphis enduring the highest violent crime rate in the nation, President Trump’s decisive action has already been welcomed   by   elected   officials  in the state. It’s clear Memphis needs help: In 2024, Memphis had the  highest violent crime rate ,  highest property crime rate , and the  third-highest murder rate  in the U.S. Violent crime increased  in 2024, bucking the national trend. Memphis’s total crime rate was 344% higher  than the national average. In 2024, Memphis’s murder rate  was higher than notoriously high-crime U.S. cities — such as Chicago, Baltimore, Detroit, and Washington, D.C — and roughly four times higher  than Mexico City, 27 times higher  than Havana, and 37 times higher  than London. There have been 149 murders  in Memphis so far in 2025. In 2022, Shelby County overhauled  its bail system at the behest  of its Soros- funded  District Attorney, instituting secured cash bail “ only as a last resort ” and relying on a system  that often results in no bail. Since then: An 18-year-old man involved in a shooting  that killed a Memphis police officer was released  without bail just one month earlier after he was arrested for auto theft, unlawful possession of a machine gun, and vandalism. A man charged  with three counts of attempted first-degree murder after he shot at  police in a 12-hour standoff was released  without bail. Three men charged  with attempted murder and other felonies in the shooting of their coworker were released  without bail.

New York State – September 2025 It’s been a few months since Rite Aid shuttered all 178 of its New York State locations, and the effects are still being felt across the state. Communities once served by the pharmacy chain are grappling with empty storefronts, lost jobs, and disrupted access to essential services. The Human Cost The closures led to the loss of over 2,100 jobs , impacting employees from New York City to Buffalo. Many former workers are still searching for employment, and local job centers report a surge in applications from displaced pharmacy staff. “It’s been tough,” said one former Rite Aid pharmacist in Syracuse. “We not only lost our jobs, but the communities lost a trusted health resource.” Empty Storefronts and Economic Strain Across the state, once-busy Rite Aid locations now sit vacant, a stark reminder of the retail chain’s sudden exit. In downtown Rochester and smaller towns like Geneva and Camillus, communities are reporting declining foot traffic to nearby businesses. Local officials worry that prolonged vacancies could depress property values and hinder small business development. Healthcare Access Disruptions Rite Aid’s sudden disappearance also disrupted prescription fulfillment and healthcare services. While some prescriptions were transferred to nearby pharmacies, residents in rural areas have had to travel farther for basic medication. Public health officials warn that long-term impacts on medication adherence and health outcomes may persist if new pharmacy solutions aren’t established. What Comes Next? Several former Rite Aid locations are reportedly being evaluated for lease or sale, but progress is slow. Community leaders are encouraging independent pharmacies and healthcare providers to fill the gaps, though it will take time to restore convenience for affected residents. “Rite Aid’s closure is a wake-up call about how dependent communities can be on a single retail provider,” said a local economic development officer. “We need a plan to prevent long-term harm to jobs, local economies, and healthcare access.” Sources: Long Island Business News CNY Central Finger Lakes Daily News Greta’s Day ChatGPT-assisted reporting

Massena, NY – September 9, 2025 A larceny case in Massena turned dramatic Tuesday night when State Police say two suspects were found hiding in a ceiling and a third was discovered under a couch during a search. According to investigators, Troopers responded to the Home Depot on Stephenville Road around 8:05 p.m. after reports of a shoplifting incident. Police say Jason Boyea, 45, of North Bangor, and Hunter J. Lamay, 21, of Malone, allegedly stole merchandise worth nearly $550. The pair bolted from the store, dropping one of the items, before fleeing in a white Ford F-150. Troopers later tracked the suspects to a nearby residence. With a search warrant in hand, officers entered and found Boyea and Lamay hiding in the ceiling in an attempt to avoid capture. During the search, police also discovered 33-year-old Lisa A. Pitts of Massena hiding under a couch. Boyea and Lamay were charged with petit larceny, processed at the State Police barracks in Massena, and released on appearance tickets to return to Massena Town Court. Pitts, however, faced a different outcome. She was wanted on multiple warrants, including conspiracy, reckless endangerment, criminal possession of a controlled substance, and endangering the welfare of a child. She was arraigned in Potsdam Town Court and later released on her own recognizance. The investigation is ongoing, and further charges have not been ruled out. Sources: https://troopers.ny.gov/news/three-individuals-arrested-stemming-larceny-complaint-0