The New York State Police in Watertown are investigating a Scheme to Defraud and Criminal Possession of a Forged Instrument involving the use of counterfeit $100 bills at multiple retail locations throughout the North Country. On July 25, 2026, the New York State Police responded to the Dollar General, located at 28525 State Route 3 in the village of Black River, for a report of counterfeit currency. The investigation determined that on July 25, 2026, at approximately 11:43 a.m., an unknown male entered the store and requested that $500 be loaded onto an online gift card account. The individual provided five $100 bills as payment. After the transaction was completed and the individual left the store, an employee noticed that two of the bills had identical serial numbers. Upon further examination, it was determined that all five bills were counterfeit. Further investigation has determined that the same unidentified individual has targeted multiple Dollar General stores throughout the North Country. A similar incident involving the same suspect occurred at a Dollar General in the city of Watertown and is being investigated by the Watertown Police Department. On July 28, 2026, the suspect also entered the Dollar General in the village of Hannibal, Oswego County, and attempted to use counterfeit currency to load funds onto an online account; however, the transaction was declined and reported to State Police. The suspect is described as a black male, approximately 20 to 30 years old, standing between 5 feet 4 inches and 5 feet 6 inches tall, with a slim build. At the time of the incidents, he was wearing a black durag, white tank top, black sweatpants, and red sneakers. He is believed to be driving a gray four-door sedan. Anyone with information regarding this investigation or who recognizes the suspect is asked to contact the New York State Police in Watertown at (315) 782-2112 and reference case NY2600915189. Contact Troop D Public Information Officer: Trooper Jennifer Jiron Troop D Commander: Major Marc A. Barbera Contact us by phone: Troop D PIO 315-366-6000 Contact us by email: dpio@troopers.ny.gov

By CNYOnline.com Local News New York State has officially established the Harriet Tubman Underground Railroad Scenic Byway, creating a nearly 177-mile route connecting historic sites from Auburn to Niagara Falls. Governor Kathy Hochul signed the legislation on June 13, 2026, formally adding the route to New York’s Scenic Byways System. The first phase passes through eight counties and links 22 locations associated with Harriet Tubman, freedom seekers and the Underground Railroad. The route begins in Auburn and travels through portions of Cayuga, Seneca, Ontario, Wayne, Monroe, Orleans, Erie and Niagara counties before reaching Niagara Falls. The New York State Department of Transportation is expected to install signs directing motorists toward historical landmarks and communities along the corridor. State officials believe the byway could strengthen heritage tourism by encouraging visitors to stop at historical attractions, restaurants, shops, lodging establishments and other locally owned businesses. The governor’s office said the route will also connect travelers with African American neighborhoods, recreational resources and businesses located throughout Central and Western New York. What the Designation Means for Billboard Companies While the scenic byway could generate new tourism and economic activity, it also creates concerns for outdoor advertising companies ranging from large regional operators to small, locally owned billboard businesses. Federal regulations prohibit the construction of most new off-premise advertising signs along designated scenic byways that are part of the Interstate, National Highway System or former Federal-aid primary highway system. New York’s Scenic Byways Program requires participating communities to acknowledge that prohibition as part of the corridor-management process. An off-premise sign generally advertises a business, organization, service or product that is not located on the same property as the sign. These signs include many traditional and digital billboards used by businesses to reach motorists away from their physical locations. The restriction does not mean every billboard along the entire route must be removed. Lawfully established signs may remain subject to their existing permits, applicable grandfathering protections, and continuing compliance with state and local regulations. Businesses may also continue using qualifying on-premise signs located on the same property where the advertised activity takes place. New York State defines on-premise signs as signs located on property that is integral to the business or activity being advertised. However, the scenic byway designation could significantly reduce opportunities for billboard companies to construct new off-premise advertising displays along affected sections of the corridor. Smaller Billboard Companies Could Feel a Greater Impact Large outdoor advertising companies frequently operate hundreds or thousands of displays across multiple regions. A restriction affecting one corridor may represent only a small portion of their overall inventory. For small local billboard companies, however, a limited number of locations may represent a substantial percentage of the company’s revenue and available advertising space. Small operators often serve local customers that cannot afford large television, radio, or statewide advertising campaigns that sometimes bring much smaller returns on the advertising budget. Their clients may include: Local restaurants and coffee shops Contractors and home-service companies Retail stores and family-owned shops Farms, markets and seasonal attractions Nonprofit organizations Volunteer fire departments Food pantries and charitable organizations Community festivals and fundraisers Local tourism destinations Small professional-service businesses Digital billboards can rotate multiple advertisers through the same display, allowing businesses and nonprofit organizations to share the cost of reaching thousands of motorists. This can make outdoor advertising more affordable than purchasing a traditional static billboard for an extended period. Restrictions on new billboard construction could therefore affect more than the billboard industry itself. They may also limit future advertising options for local organizations that depend on affordable, highly visible community promotion. Digital Billboards Serve More Than Commercial Advertisers Modern digital billboards are frequently used for purposes beyond commercial advertising. Depending on the operator and location, billboard companies may provide space for emergency notifications, missing-person alerts, public-safety messages, weather warnings, road closures and community announcements. They can also promote county fairs, farmers markets, concerts, school events, nonprofit fundraisers, food drives, local festivals and tourism attractions. During emergencies, digital displays can update messages quickly without requiring crews to physically replace printed materials. This ability can make them a valuable communication tool for communities, law-enforcement agencies and emergency-service organizations. Local billboard companies also regularly donate or discount advertising space for charitable causes and community events that could not otherwise afford widespread promotion. Balancing Historic Preservation and Local Commerce The Harriet Tubman Underground Railroad Scenic Byway represents an important effort to preserve and promote New York’s history while honoring Tubman, abolitionists and the freedom seekers who traveled through the state. Supporters believe the designation will attract visitors, increase spending and create new opportunities for businesses located along the route. State lawmakers said the byway could potentially draw hundreds of thousands of visitors and possibly more than one million into communities connected to Underground Railroad history. At the same time, the restrictions connected with scenic byway status raise legitimate economic questions for outdoor advertising companies and the customers they serve. A balanced approach will require state and local officials to protect the historical character of the corridor while recognizing the important role that billboards—particularly digital billboards—play in helping local businesses, nonprofits and community organizations communicate affordably with the public. Existing billboard operators will need to carefully review their permits, property rights, municipal regulations and the specific highway segments covered by the new designation. Communities should also consider how official tourism signs, on-premise advertising, visitor-directional signage and existing legal billboards can work together to guide travelers toward local attractions and businesses. The new byway has the potential to become both a powerful historical resource and an economic driver. Ensuring that local businesses have practical, affordable ways to reach those new visitors will be an important part of turning that potential into lasting benefits for communities across New York.

138th Boonville-Oneida County Fair Kicks Off with Six Days of Family Fun BOONVILLE, N.Y. — The sights, sounds and flavors of fair season have returned to northern Oneida County as the 138th annual Boonville-Oneida County Fair gets underway. The longtime summer tradition opened Tuesday, July 28, and continues through Sunday, August 2, at the Boonville-Oneida County Fairgrounds, located at 222 Schuyler Street in Boonville. This year’s theme, “Showcasing Agriculture for 138 of Our Nation’s 250 Years,” celebrates the fair’s agricultural heritage alongside America’s 250th anniversary. Opening-day activities included children’s events, a spelling bee, the Kiddie Tractor Pedal Pull, a 4-H Dog Show, Clydesdale-drawn wagon rides and the annual fair parade. The Coleman Brothers Midway also opened with carnival rides, games and traditional fair food. Wednesday’s Schedule Includes Fireworks Fair activities continue Wednesday, July 29, with a Draft Horse Show beginning at 8:30 a.m., followed by several 4-H horse and dairy competitions. The Coleman Brothers Carnival opens at 1 p.m., followed by the Lightweight Horse Pull at 2 p.m. and the Heavyweight Horse Pull at 4 p.m. Evening entertainment includes East Coast Pro Wrestling at 7:30 p.m., live music from Tony “Long Toes” Levesque at 8 p.m. and a fireworks display scheduled for 9 p.m. Major Events Planned Throughout the Week Thursday will feature antique and out-of-field tractor pulling, livestock competitions, Sensory Day activities and the New York State Tractor Pull. Friday has been designated Children’s Day and Pink Out Day in recognition of breast cancer awareness. The schedule includes truck pulls, family activities, live music and Midnight Madness at the midway. Country music artist John Morgan will headline the grandstand Saturday evening, with the performance scheduled to begin at 7:30 p.m. The fair concludes Sunday with two demolition derby sessions scheduled for 1 p.m. and 6 p.m. Agricultural exhibits, 4-H competitions, horse and livestock shows, carnival attractions, food vendors and live entertainment will continue throughout the six-day celebration. General admission is $6 for visitors ages 13 and older, $3 for adults over 60 and free for children ages 12 and younger. Daily parking is also free. Some grandstand attractions require an additional ticket. The fairgrounds are generally open from 8 a.m. until 11:30 p.m. Visitors are encouraged to review the official schedule before traveling because individual event times and admission requirements may vary.

CNYOnline.com Local News Consumers are being urged to check their refrigerators following two major food-safety investigations involving iceberg lettuce and shell eggs. Federal health officials are investigating a multistate outbreak of Cyclospora, a microscopic parasite that can cause prolonged intestinal illness. At the same time, nearly 19 million eggs have been voluntarily recalled due to possible Salmonella contamination. Cyclospora Outbreak Linked to Iceberg Lettuce The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the U.S. Food and Drug Administration are investigating a Cyclospora outbreak linked to iceberg lettuce supplied by Taylor Farms de Mexico. As of July 24, at least 1,947 illnesses and 98 hospitalizations had been reported across nine states. No deaths had been reported. The states reporting outbreak-related illnesses were New York, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Michigan, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania and West Virginia. Taylor Farms initiated a voluntary recall on July 17 covering all iceberg lettuce sourced from central Mexico. The recall includes certain Marketside-brand iceberg salad and shredded lettuce products sold at select Walmart stores, as well as lettuce distributed to restaurants and food-service businesses. Federal officials said the affected lettuce was distributed in at least 27 states. New York was not included in the confirmed distribution list released by the FDA, although officials cautioned that additional distribution channels or locations could be identified as the investigation continues. Consumers should not eat recalled lettuce. It should be thrown away or returned to the place of purchase. Refrigerators, containers, utensils and surfaces that may have touched the lettuce should also be thoroughly cleaned and sanitized. Cyclospora symptoms commonly include: Frequent watery diarrhea Loss of appetite Weight loss Stomach cramps and bloating Nausea Increased gas Fatigue Symptoms may begin approximately one week after exposure and can last for several weeks or longer without treatment. Routine stool tests may not automatically screen for Cyclospora, so anyone experiencing symptoms should tell their healthcare provider about possible exposure. Nearly 19 Million Eggs Recalled Over Salmonella Concerns Midwest Poultry Services has also voluntarily recalled 1,589,577 dozen eggs, equal to approximately 19.1 million individual eggs, due to possible contamination with Salmonella Enteritidis. The recalled white shell eggs and brown cage-free eggs were produced in Texas and distributed between June 6 and July 3. They have sell-by or best-by dates ranging from July 20 through August 17, 2026. The recalled eggs were shipped to food-service and retail customers in Texas, Oklahoma and Louisiana. They were also available through certain Kroger, Brookshire Grocery and smaller retail locations in Arkansas, Mississippi and New Mexico. New York was not listed among the states receiving the recalled eggs. Affected eggs were sold under multiple brand names, including: Kroger Simple Truth Brookshire’s Cal-Maine Country Morning Consumers should check the side of the carton for plant codes P-1950 or 0840962 and Julian dates between 157 and 184. Eggs matching those codes should not be eaten and should be thrown away or returned for a refund. The wider Salmonella investigation has identified 98 illnesses across 17 states, with 26 people hospitalized. Health officials have linked at least some of the illnesses to recalled eggs. Symptoms of Salmonella usually include diarrhea, fever and stomach cramps. Some people may also experience nausea, vomiting or bloody diarrhea. Young children, adults age 65 and older, and people with weakened immune systems face a higher risk of developing a serious infection. When to Contact a Healthcare Provider Medical attention should be sought for symptoms including: Diarrhea lasting more than two days Bloody diarrhea A fever higher than 102 degrees Persistent vomiting Difficulty keeping liquids down Signs of dehydration, including dizziness, dry mouth or reduced urination Consumers are encouraged to review egg cartons and packaged lettuce carefully, follow federal recall updates and clean any surfaces that may have contacted recalled products. Stay informed with CNYOnline.com Local News. Your local source for important community, health and public-safety updates across Central New York.

In a world where the price of just about everything seems to keep climbing, one small diner in Madison County has quietly held onto a tradition that's become almost unbelievable. At Flo's Diner, located at 3223 State Route 31 in Canastota, New York, a cup of coffee has cost just 10 cents every single day since 1976. No catch. No special promotion. No purchase required. Just a steaming hot cup of coffee served in a classic heavy diner mug, just as it has been for nearly 50 years. While most restaurants have adjusted prices dozens of times over the decades, Flo's has refused to let this small tradition disappear. It's a simple gesture that has become part of the diner's identity and one of the reasons locals—and travelers passing through Central New York—continue to stop in. More Than a Diner Flo's isn't just known for inexpensive coffee. It's the kind of hometown diner where regulars are greeted by name, breakfast is served hot and fast, and comfort food is always on the menu. From fluffy pancakes and eggs cooked just the way you like them to hearty sandwiches, burgers, homemade soups, and daily specials, the focus has always been on simple, satisfying meals served with friendly service. The atmosphere is exactly what many people picture when they think of a classic American roadside diner—comfortable booths, familiar faces, and conversations that often last longer than the meal itself. Four Generations of Family Tradition One of the things that makes Flo's truly special is the people behind it. The diner has been built on four generations of family, creating a place where hospitality isn't just part of the job—it's part of the family's legacy. That commitment has helped Flo's become much more than a restaurant. For many in the community, it's a gathering place where memories have been made over countless breakfasts and coffee refills. A Rare Piece of Central New York History Businesses that stay true to their roots for decades are becoming increasingly rare. Flo's Diner has managed to do exactly that, preserving traditions that remind people why local diners remain such an important part of small-town America. Whether you're stopping in for breakfast before work, grabbing lunch with friends, or simply curious about that famous 10-cent coffee, Flo's offers a taste of nostalgia that's hard to find anywhere else. If you've never visited, it may be worth the drive to Canastota—not just for the bargain coffee, but for the experience of stepping into one of Central New York's most enduring hometown diners. Flo's Diner📍 3223 State Route 31, Canastota, NY☕ Coffee: Just 10¢ since 1976🥞 Family-owned and operated with four generations of hospitality

On July 22, 2026, at approximately 5:05 p.m., New York State Police responded to State Route 13 in the town of Vienna for a two-vehicle crash involving a motorcycle and a pickup truck. The preliminary investigation determined that Ryan A. Lyke, 37, of Canastota, was operating a 2022 Harley-Davidson motorcycle northbound on State Route 13 when a southbound 2020 Nissan Frontier, operated by Leo G. Seaton, 90, of Camden, attempted to make a left turn into the path of the motorcycle, resulting in a collision. Lyke was transported to Rome Health, where he was pronounced deceased. The New York State Police Collision Reconstruction Unit (CRU) responded to process the scene. A Drug Recognition Expert (DRE) also responded and determined there were no signs of impairment by the operator of the pickup truck. The investigation remains ongoing.

On July 22, 2026, at approximately 9:21 p.m., New York State Police responded to Lebanon Road near Bonny Road in the town of Lebanon for a reported one-vehicle crash involving a horse. The preliminary investigation determined that Janet L. Schwaner, 72, of Wellesley, Massachusetts, was operating a 2021 Mazda CX-5 eastbound on Lebanon Road when her vehicle struck a horse that was running westbound in the eastbound lane. Schwaner was pronounced deceased at the scene. The horse also died as a result of the collision. The investigation remains ongoing.

Flock Safety Camera Outside Lowe's in Oneida Raises Privacy Questions Drivers traveling along the roadway in front of Lowe's in Oneida may notice a Flock Safety Automated License Plate Recognition (ALPR) camera mounted near the entrance. While positioned on or near the Lowe's property, the camera is aimed toward the public roadway, allowing it to capture images of vehicles traveling past the store—including many that never enter the parking lot. Flock cameras are designed to record license plates along with vehicle characteristics such as make, model, color, and other identifying features. (Flock Safety) Unlike traditional surveillance cameras, ALPR systems automatically create searchable records of passing vehicles. According to Flock Safety, the technology is intended to help solve crimes, recover stolen vehicles, locate missing persons, and assist law enforcement investigations. The company says its cameras do not use facial recognition or issue speeding tickets. (Flock Safety) A Growing Privacy Debate Privacy advocates argue that cameras positioned to monitor public roads effectively collect information on thousands of innocent drivers every day, regardless of whether those drivers are suspected of any crime. Because the Oneida camera faces the roadway, it can document vehicles simply passing by Lowe's without ever stopping at the business. Organizations such as the Electronic Frontier Foundation have argued that expanding ALPR networks can create a form of mass surveillance by compiling records of where people travel over time. They have also raised concerns about how data may be shared between agencies and whether existing oversight is sufficient. (Electronic Frontier Foundation) Can You See If Your Plate Has Been Searched? Some law enforcement agencies using Flock participate in public transparency initiatives that disclose policies, data retention periods, and aggregate statistics on searches through the Flock Transparency Portal. However, these portals generally do not allow individual drivers to determine whether their specific license plate has been searched or viewed by law enforcement. (Flock Safety) Mapping Flock Cameras Several independent, community-driven projects have emerged to help people identify ALPR camera locations: DeFlock is a crowdsourced map that catalogs known Flock and other ALPR camera locations across the United States. It also explains the privacy concerns associated with these systems. (DeFlock) AntiFlock is another community project that maps publicly identified ALPR cameras. (AntiFlock) Because these maps rely on public submissions, they may not include every camera and can contain outdated information. Whether Flock cameras represent a valuable public safety tool or an unnecessary intrusion into the privacy of everyday motorists remains the subject of ongoing debate. Supporters point to their role in solving crimes and locating stolen vehicles, while critics argue that recording the movements of large numbers of people who are not suspected of wrongdoing raises significant civil liberties concerns. (Flock Safety)

On July 10, 2026, the New York State Police arrested James W. Madera, age 38, of Waterville, NY, following an investigation into allegations that he took intimate photographs of an adult female without her knowledge or consent. Madera is employed as a New York State court officer with the Oneida County Supreme Court. There are no allegations that the conduct occurred while he was on duty or in connection with his employment. Madera was charged with Unlawful Surveillance in the Second Degree (Class E felony) He was arraigned in Oneida County Centralized Arraignment Part (CAP) Court and released on his own recognizance. He is scheduled to appear in court at a later date.A full stay-away order of protection was issued on behalf of the victim.

VERNON, N.Y. — Legendary rock band Jefferson Starship will bring its “Runaway Again Tour 2026” to Vernon Downs on Friday, August 21, for a special concert benefiting the Food Bank of Central New York. The concert is scheduled to begin at 8 p.m., with tickets priced at $20 each. Tickets are available through the Vernon Downs Rewards Club and Ticketmaster. All proceeds from the event will benefit the Food Bank of Central New York. Jeff Gural, chairman of American Racing & Entertainment, has also pledged to personally donate an additional $20 for every ticket sold. The benefit concert gives local music fans an opportunity to enjoy a night of classic rock while supporting an organization that helps provide food assistance to families throughout Central New York. Jefferson Starship has entertained audiences for decades with a catalog of well-known rock songs and continues to perform for fans across the country. The event is sponsored by Pepsi. Event Details Who: Jefferson Starship When: Friday, August 21, 2026, at 8 p.m. Where: Vernon Downs Where can you get tickets: Tickets available now at the Vernon Downs Rewards Club (avoid the Ticketmaster fees) or Ticketmaster.com. Tickets: $20. Ticket Information: Vernon Downs Rewards Club and Ticketmaster Benefit: Food Bank of Central New York For more local news, community events and updates, visit CNYOnline.com.

VERNON, N.Y. — Families throughout the Vernon area are invited to celebrate America’s 250th birthday during a full day of music, food and patriotic activities at Bartholomew Park. The America 250 Celebration will be held from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Saturday, July 25, 2026, at the park, located at 8 Ruth Street in Vernon. Admission is free, and the event is open to the entire community. Live music will be provided by Prime Time Horns from 1 to 4 p.m. A chicken barbecue will begin at noon, with dinners available for $13. The celebration will also feature fire trucks, bounce houses, family-friendly activities and other patriotic attractions for guests of all ages. The event is being hosted by the Sconondoa Sherrill Masonic Lodge No. 814, the American Legion William Russell Post and the Village of Vernon. Community members are encouraged to bring their families, invite friends and enjoy a day of entertainment while commemorating 250 years of American history. Event Details Date: Saturday, July 25, 2026Time: 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Location: Bartholomew Park, 8 Ruth Street, Vernon, NY 13476 Admission: Free

On July 20th, 2026, at approximately 12:25 PM, Utica Police units were assisting Oneida County Sheriff’s Deputies with a sweep of a homeless encampment off of Burrstone Rd when they came upon an individual lying on the ground. As they approached closer it was immediately apparent that the individual was deceased and the Utica Fire Department was contacted for formal pronouncement. Soon after the Onondaga County Medical Examiner’s Office was contacted and removed the body. At this time there is nothing suggesting any criminality associated with the death, however the Utica Police Department Criminal Investigation Division is investigating the incident. Additionally, we will be working with OCME officer for identification. If you have any information regarding the death please contact UPD CID at 315 223 3510.