New York State Police Wall of Honor – Today we remember Trooper Alexander E. Boehm Trooper Alexander E. Boehm tragically passed away on November 13, 1924, at the young age of 32. His untimely death occurred at the Central Hotel in the village of Corinth, a scenic area where he had been riding when he experienced severe chest pains. Just two weeks prior to his passing, Trooper Boehm had been tasked with breaking saddle horses for Troop G, a physically demanding responsibility that involved training and acclimating horses for various purposes. During this time, he suffered an unfortunate injury when he was kicked in the chest by one of the horses. This incident required him to spend some time in the hospital for observation and treatment, though he later returned to duty. Despite his recovery from the injury, it is believed that the physical toll of the horse training, combined with the lengthy and strenuous ride from Troy to Corinth, may have significantly affected his health. These factors likely contributed to the event that would ultimately lead to his premature death, leaving behind a legacy as a dedicated trooper whose service was marked by both challenges and bravery. Sources: https://www.facebook.com/photo?fbid=875084258148623&set=a.153499116973811

On November 9, 2024, at approximately 3:44 p.m., a tragic incident occurred in Sterling Forest, Greenwood Lake, NY, when Dariel Vasquez, an 18-year-old Parks and Recreation Aide employed by the New York State Parks, Recreation, and Historic Preservation Department, lost his life while actively battling a forest fire. Vasquez had been part of the firefighting team responding to the blaze when, during the course of his efforts, he was struck by a falling tree. Despite immediate assistance and emergency response efforts at the scene, he succumbed to his injuries and was pronounced dead shortly thereafter. The New York State Police and relevant officials are conducting a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding this devastating event. They aim to gather more details about the fire and the safety protocols in place at the time of the accident. This incident highlights the inherent risks faced by individuals working to protect public land and the environment. Sources: https://troopers.ny.gov/news/update-state-police-investigating-death-state-parks-employee-who-was-battling-forest-fire

Abdi Yusuf Hassan and Mohamed Tahlil Mohamed Abused Their Somali Government Positions in Holding Michael Scott Moore Hostage for Nearly Three Years Damian Williams, the United States Attorney for the Southern District of New York, announced today that ABDI YUSUF HASSAN and MOHAMED TAHLIL MOHAMED were both sentenced to 30 years in prison for hostage taking, terrorism, and firearms offenses, in connection with the 977-day hostage taking of an American journalist in Somalia.  A jury in the Eastern District of New York convicted HASSAN and MOHAMED of those offenses in February 2023 following a three-week trial.  The sentences were imposed by U.S. District Judge Allyne R. Ross, who also presided over the trial. U.S. Attorney Damian Williams said: “For nearly three years, Michael Scott Moore was held hostage in Somalia by pirates. He was beaten, chained to the floor, and threatened with assault rifles and machine guns.  Hassan and Mohamed were key players in that hostage taking.  Both abused their positions in Somalia’s government—Hassan, as a senior security official, and Mohamed as an army officer—by keeping a U.S. citizen captive to satisfy their own greed.  Today’s sentences demonstrate our resolve to hold those who take Americans hostage accountable for their crimes.” According to the Complaints, Indictments, evidence at trial, and statements made in public court proceedings: In January 2012, Michael Scott Moore, an American freelance journalist, traveled to Somalia to research piracy and the Somali economy.  On January 21, 2012, Moore was driving in the vicinity of Galkayo, Somalia, when his vehicle was suddenly surrounded by a group of heavily armed men carrying assault rifles and rocket-propelled grenade launchers. The men pulled Moore from his vehicle, beat him with their weapons, and drove him away in another vehicle to a secluded area, where they held him with two Seychellois fishermen (“Fisherman-1” and “Fisherman-2”).  The fishermen had been abducted off the Somali coast in October 2011.   Moore was held in various locations in the vicinity of Hobyo, Somalia, for approximately three months. In April 2012, Moore and Fisherman-1 were transferred to a boat,  F/V Naham III , which had previously been hijacked in March 2012.  The pirates kept Moore and Fisherman-1 captive aboard the  Naham III , along with 28 crew members of the ship. Moore learned from the crew members, who were from Vietnam, China, Philippines, and Taiwan, that the hostage takers murdered the captain of the ship when they captured the vessel and that his body was kept in the ship’s freezer.  The hostage takers kept Moore on the  Naham III until approximately August 2012, when they transferred him back to land.  On one occasion, in approximately May 2012, Moore’s captors took him from the  Naham III to the Somali bush, where they forced Moore to watch as they hung Fisherman-1 from a tree by his feet and beat Fisherman-1 with a cane.   During the torture of Fisherman-1, the pirates who were present were armed with heavy weaponry, including machine guns and grenade launchers. Moore remained a hostage for another two years.  During this time, his captors shuttled him between safehouses, chained him at night to prevent his escape, surrounded him with armed guards, and repeatedly threatened him with bodily harm.  Moore was also forced to make several proof-of-life videos requesting large ransom payments for his release.  The kidnappers provided Moore with almost no information, and his access to the outside world was limited to a radio.  In September 2014, following the payment of a ransom, Moore’s captors released him. HASSAN and MOHAMED each played significant roles in Moore’s captivity.   HASSAN, a naturalized U.S. citizen, served as the Minister of the Interior (a role that made him responsible for police and security forces) in Galmudug province in Somalia, where Moore was held hostage.  HASSAN served as an overall leader of the pirates and headed their efforts to extort a massive ransom from Moore’s aging mother. Among other things, HASSAN directed the production of proof-of-life videos with Moore, participated in negotiations for ransom payments, and used his own home as a base of operations for the pirates.  MOHAMED, a serving officer in the Somali army, was a supervisor of the pirates guarding Moore during the early stages of the hostage taking.  After Moore had been moved several times, MOHAMED continued to play an essential role in the hostage taking, relying on his military position, training, and experience to serve as the pirates’ head of security and armorer.  As head of security, MOHAMED was in charge of moving Moore from location to location around Somalia.   MOHAMED also leveraged his military background to provide and repair heavy machine guns, grenade launchers, and other weapons that the pirates used to ensure that Moore could not escape.                     .               * In addition to the prison term, HASSAN, 56, of Minneapolis, Minnesota, and MOHAMED, 43, of Mogadishu, Somalia, were sentenced to one day of supervised release. Mr. Williams praised the outstanding efforts of the International Operations Division of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (“FBI”), the FBI’s International Violent Crimes Unit, the FBI Boston Field Office and its Portland Resident Agency, the FBI Minneapolis Field Office, the U.S. Department of State Diplomatic Security Service, the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of New York, the Department of Justice’s Office of International Affairs, and the Counterterrorism Section of the Department of Justice’s National Security Division for their assistance. This prosecution is being handled by the Office’s National Security and International Narcotics Unit.  Assistant U.S. Attorney Sam Adelsberg is in charge of the prosecution, with assistance from Trial Attorney Josh Champagne of the Counterterrorism Section. Contact Nicholas Biase, Shelby Wratchford(212) 637-2600 https://www.justice.gov/usao-sdny/pr/two-somali-pirates-sentenced-30-years-each-prison-armed-hostage-taking-american

The City of Utica is participating in a community solar initiative. The program, according to the mayor, could lower energy bills by up to 10 percent. By enrolling in this program, residents can receive credits on their National Grid bill, reflecting a share of the energy produced by the solar project. “The City of Utica Community Solar Initiative is about doing the right thing for our community by returning real benefits to our residents," Utica Mayor Michael Galime said. "This initiative provides a valuable opportunity for our residents to save money at a time when it would be especially welcome. I encourage everyone to take advantage of this program and see firsthand how it can positively impact their energy costs." The energy will be sourced from solar projects located in four different areas across the state. Also, residents in public assistance programs like SNAP, SSI or HEAP can increase their savings rate to 20%, according to the City. Following enrollment in the program, savings on electricity bills usually start two to three months after.

**REMSEN – A large barn fire near Remsen, NY, prompted an emergency response from multiple fire departments in Northern Oneida County on Wednesday morning.** Although details remain scarce, Oneida County Emergency Dispatch confirmed that the fire was reported shortly before 9:00 a.m. at 10224 Lake Julia Road, located just outside of Remsen. In response to the fire, a number of local fire departments were dispatched, including Remsen, Barneveld, Forestport, Boonville, Stittville, Holland Patent, Poland, and Floyd Fire Departments. The Oneida County Sheriff’s Office and STaR Ambulance also assisted at the scene. Upon arrival, first responders reported that the barn was fully engulfed in flames. Firefighters quickly communicated to dispatch that the fire was significant and spreading rapidly. At this time, authorities have not provided any information regarding whether animals were inside the barn or if there were any injuries to humans. The situation remains under investigation, and emergency crews are working to contain the blaze. We will continue to monitor the situation and provide updates as more information becomes available.

The New Jersey Devils announced on Thursday afternoon that defenseman Simon Nemec has been reassigned to the Utica Comets of the American Hockey League (AHL). The move comes after Nemec, 20, played in nine games with the Devils so far this season, where he registered one assist and gained valuable experience at the NHL level. Nemec, the second-overall pick in the 2022 NHL Draft, was expected to continue his development with the Devils after a strong performance during his rookie campaign last year. In the 2023-24 season, he appeared in 60 games for New Jersey, recording three goals and 19 points while continuing to showcase his impressive two-way game and poise with the puck. His performance earned him a regular spot in the lineup, as he displayed the skill set that made him one of the most highly-touted young defensemen in the league. In addition to his time with the Devils, Nemec spent part of last season with Utica, where he played 13 games and posted two goals and eight points. His time in the AHL allowed him to refine his game further, particularly in terms of adjusting to the North American style of play and enhancing his overall physicality and defensive consistency. The reassignment to Utica will give Nemec more playing time and an opportunity to continue his development in a key role with the Comets, while also allowing the Devils to evaluate their options on the blue line. Nemec’s reassignment is seen as part of the team’s long-term development strategy, as they continue to build for the future while giving their young players the time and resources necessary to grow. With a bright future ahead, Nemec is expected to return to the Devils lineup as he continues to gain experience and refine his skills at the AHL level. Devils defenseman Simon Nemec, a promising young talent at the age of 20, has recently been re-assigned to Utica of the American Hockey League, as confirmed by the club on a Thursday afternoon. This move marks a strategic decision by the team management to provide Nemec with more playing time and development opportunities in the AHL.During the current season, Nemec showcased his skills in nine games with the Devils, contributing with one assist. While the statistical impact may seem modest, his presence on the ice has been noted for its potential and glimpses of brilliance.Reflecting on his performance last year, Nemec's progress is evident as the second-overall pick in the 2022 draft. In his debut season with New Jersey, he demonstrated his versatility and determination by appearing in 60 games, where he scored three goals and accumulated a total of 19 points. Additionally, his brief stint with Utica in the 2023-24 season further solidified his capabilities, as he managed to net two goals and contribute eight points in just 13 games.As Nemec transitions back to Utica, he carries with him the experience and lessons learned from his time in the NHL, poised to continue his development and make a strong case for a future return to the Devils' lineup. Fans eagerly anticipate witnessing his growth and impact on the ice as he navigates through this crucial phase of his professional hockey career.

Oneida County Executive Anthony J. Picente Jr. announced today that the 14th Annual Oneida County Intergenerational Fall Clean-Up saw 470 youth volunteers service the homes of 105 seniors. “Oneida County’s Intergenerational Fall Clean-Up is a testament to the power of community and the importance of giving back,” Picente said. “These youth volunteers show their dedication by helping our seniors prepare for winter, lending a hand with tasks that are vital to the well-being of our elderly residents. I am incredibly proud of these young people, as well as the schools, colleges and organizations that made this initiative possible. Their efforts demonstrate the compassion and commitment that defines our community.” The 14th Annual Intergenerational Fall Clean-Up was a collaboration between the Oneida County Youth Bureau, the Oneida County Office for the Aging and Continuing Care and local colleges, school districts and youth organizations. Volunteers raked and collected leaves, swept porches, sidewalks and driveways and brought light refuse to the curb at the homes of seniors throughout the county. Volunteers participated from Utica University baseball, wrestling, track & field, field hockey, softball and women’s soccer, as well as the Health Science Student Society, Organization of Justice Studies, Alpha Chi Rho fraternity and Chi Beta Sigma, Kappa Delta Phi, Theta Phi Alpha and Sigma Gamma Rho sororities; Mohawk Valley Community College’s Holistic Student Support, Phi Theta Kappa International Honor Society and Bobby Rogan; New Hartford District 12 Tributes; T.R. Proctor High School Key Club, Young Scholars Program and Business Law/Government; Utica Academy of Science’s Kaitlyn Rose; Clinton Middle School Student Council and National Junior Honor Society; Notre Dame High School National Honor Society and National Junior ROTC; Whitesboro Central School District’s Marcy Elementary and PTO; New York Mills Student Council; Camden High School sports; Vernon-Verona-Sherrill Interact Club; Sauquoit National Honor Society; Oriskany High School Key Club, Safe Schools Mohawk Valley and the Vanno Family. “With the outpouring of support given by our youth and the supportive number of youth volunteers represented, these kids see the big picture,” said Youth Bureau Director Kevin Green. “Compassion for those in need, caring enough to do the work, and bringing joy to others are three characteristics these 470 youth volunteers brought to Oneida Counties senior citizen population.” The 2024 Fall Clean-up took place on October 19 and Oct. 20. During the Intergenerational Spring Clean-Up this past April, 305 youth volunteers serviced the homes of more than 85 senior citizens throughout the county. The 2025 Intergenerational Spring Clean-Up is scheduled for April 12 and April 13 and the 2025 Intergenerational Fall Clean-Up is scheduled for October 18 and October 19. Any Oneida County colleges, school districts and youth organizations interested in volunteering should contact the Oneida County Youth Bureau at 315-798-5027. Any senior citizen interested in having their yard cleaned should contact the Oneida County Office for the Aging and Continuing Care at 798-5456. Sources: https://ocgov.net/news/another-successful-fall-clean-up-brings-together-oneida-county-youth-and-seniors-1/

10/7/24 Contact: Keith Schiebel (315) 335-0887 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE kschiebel@ocgov.net kschiebel@tds.net From the Desk of Legislator Keith Schiebel Ever wonder how our County Board of Legislators works? While some County functions are obvious, like plowing and maintaining roads, administering public health, or providing public safety, many of the County services and responsibilities may be less apparent but are nonetheless important when individuals require County assistance. The Board of Legislators plays a vital role in delivering those services. Our Oneida County Board of Legislators is comprised of 23 legislators, each representing about 10,000 residents. The Board of Legislators is charged with many powers and duties, some of which include setting property tax levies, adopting the County budget and oversight of spending, enacting local laws, setting compensation for the more than 1,700 County employees, and overseeing of County properties, buildings and facilities. Each legislator may represent one or several city, town, or village governments and serves as a conduit to those governments. The Board conducts business once a month, usually on the second Wednesday of each month at 2:00 PM in the Legislative Chambers of the County office building in Utica. At the beginning of each meeting, the public is welcome to provide comments and feedback to the Board. The public’s input is a valuable means of communication for elected officials at all levels. In addition to the monthly meetings, legislators meet on assigned committees to address upcoming topics and resolutions specific to each standing committee. Those committees include Airport, Government Operations, Economic Development and Tourism, Health and Human Services, Workers Compensation, Public Safety and Public Works. In any given month, there may be as many as 25 to 30 or more individual resolutions for consideration and approval by the Board. All committee meetings, Board meetings, and printed agendas for each are available online and are archived for public viewing. For more information on the Oneida County Board of Legislators, or to view your legislative representative, check out the County website at: https://ocgov.net/departments/board-of- legislators/

NEW HARTFORD — Blaze Pizza, known for its fast-casual dining experience and customizable thin-crust pizzas, announced via its website that the location at 4759 Commercial Drive is permanently closed. A notice posted on the restaurant's front doors adds to this announcement, stating, “Blaze Pizza is closed permanently! Sorry! 11/1/24.” This abrupt closure comes as a surprise to many in the community who have frequented the establishment since its grand opening in October 2019. The New Hartford Blaze Pizza was known for its unique approach to pizza-making, allowing customers to choose from a wide array of toppings and sauces, resulting in a personalized dining experience. The chain has gained popularity for promoting fresh ingredients and quick service. While the New Hartford location has closed, Blaze Pizza still maintains a presence in New York, with 12 other locations across the state. These include restaurants in cities such as DeWitt, Albany, and Rochester, where fans of the brand can continue to enjoy its signature offerings. The closure adds to the evolving landscape of dining options in the area, leaving local patrons to seek alternative venues for their pizza cravings.

According to Oneida County Sheriff Robert M. Maciol, on November 2, 2024, at approximately 11:54 AM, Road Patrol Deputies responded to an ATV accident with injuries located on the C4C state trail between Hall Road and Widrig Road in the Town of Vienna. While Road Patrol Deputies conducted their investigation into the crash, it was determined that a 13 year old Juvenile from North Syracuse was operating a 2002, Polaris Trail Blazer in an easterly direction. During the course of operation, the Juvenile lost control of the ATV causing him to leave the trail at which time he struck a tree and subsequently was ejected from the ATV. As a result of the accident, the Juvenile sustained a leg injury and was transported by Vineall Ambulance to Upstate Hospital with non-life-threatening injuries. The Juvenile was wearing a helmet at the time of operation. The Oneida County Sheriffs were assisted on the scene by the New York State Police, Cleveland Fire Department, and Vineall Ambulance. https://www.facebook.com/photo?fbid=949431347219533&set=a.233092632186745

According to Oneida County Sheriff, Robert M. Maciol, on November 3, 2024, around 7:29 PM, Deputies responded to the area of Daily Road and Lowell Road in the Town of Westmoreland for a single vehicle personal injury motor vehicle accident. Deputies determined the operator, Matthew R. Rook (48) of Vernon was traveling north on Moore Road in a green 1995 Jeep Wrangler when he went through the intersection, crossing over Lowell Road and exiting the western shoulder of Daily Road, striking a culvert. The Jeep then went flipped and Rook was ejected from the Jeep. Life saving measures were performed on scene and Rook was then transported to Wynn Hospital for further medical treatment. The Oneida County Sheriff’s Office was assisted on scene by the New York State Troopers, Town of Westmoreland Fire Department, Central Oneida County Volunteer Ambulance Company and Upstate Auto Gallery.

press release On November 3, 2024, State Police members arrested Darrin R. Collins, age 45, of Winthrop, NY, Emily C. Moniere, age 27, of Potsdam, NY, and Kristy Woods, age 38, of Brasher Falls, NY, stemming from a traffic stop at approximately 9:08 p.m., on State Route 11c in the town of Brasher Falls.  Troopers observed a red 2009 Chevrolet traveling on State Highway 11C violate a vehicle and traffic law.  Troopers initiated a traffic stop and interviewed the driver who was identified as Michael R. Woods, age 49, of North Lawrence, NY, front seat passenger was identified as Woods, and the back seat passengers were identified as Collins and Moniere, after they provided incorrect names and date of births.  During the traffic stop, Troopers revealed Collins and Moniere had a complete stay-away order of protection in place, so they were in violation.  Moniere had an active bench warrant out of Norfolk Town Court, and Woods had an active bench warrant out of Massena Town Court.  All three were taken into custody.  During a search of the vehicle, numerous amounts of narcotic drugs and paraphernalia were located in the vehicle.   Collins was charged with criminal possession of a controlled substance 7th, criminal contempt 2nd, bail jumping 3rd, and false personation. He was arraigned in the town of Norfolk Court, where he was remanded to St. Lawrence County Jail in lieu of $4,000 bash bail. Woods was charged with criminal possession of controlled substance 7th (2 counts) and criminal use of drug paraphernalia 2nd. She was arraigned in the town of Norfolk Court, where she was released on her own recognizance. Moniere was charged with criminal possession of a controlled substance 7th (2 counts, criminal possession of a controlled substance 3rd, criminal possession of narcotic drug 4th, bail jumping, and false personation.  She was arraigned in the town of Norfolk Court, where she was remanded to St. Lawrence County Jail in lieu of $10,000 cash bail.  https://troopers.ny.gov/news/three-individuals-arrested-stemming-traffic-stop-town-brasher-falls