According to Oneida County Sheriff Robert Maciol, on October 7th, 2024, at around 6:51 am, Road Patrol Deputies responded to Route 69 in the City of Rome for a reported two-car motor vehicle accident with injuries. Patrol Deputies determined after investigation, the operator of a 2007 Chevy Cobalt, Jaiden Coleman (22) of Rome, was attempting to turn left into the Fast Trac parking lot when she failed to yield the right of way at the intersection, causing her to turn in front of oncoming traffic from the opposite lane, striking a 2018 Kia SED traveling in an easterly direction on Route 69, operated by April Premo (44) of Rome. Both vehicles were towed from the scene due to airbag deployment. Both parties were transported to the Wynn for non-life-threatening injuries received from the accident. Patrol Deputies were assisted on scene by the Rome Fire Department and AmCare Ambulance. Sources: https://oneidacountysheriff.us/news/6704059f0773a3011c012009/

"The reimagined take on a classic menu item was secretly introduced at the McDonnell's pop-up by Chain" CHICAGO, Oct. 3, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- ICYMI – fans have been clamoring for McDonald's Chicken Big Mac – a twist on the original Big Mac that has been a fan favorite since 1968 – to debut in the U.S. After making appearances on McDonald's menus around the world, U.S. fans are now getting their chance to experience this limited time offer starting Oct. 10, at participating locations while supplies last. It’s Official: McDonald’s Highly Anticipated Chicken Big Mac® Drops at U.S. Restaurants this Month It’s Official: McDonald’s Highly Anticipated Chicken Big Mac® Drops at U.S. Restaurants this Month (Photo by Jon Kopaloff/Getty Images for McDonnell's by Chain) It’s Official: McDonald’s Highly Anticipated Chicken Big Mac® Drops at U.S. Restaurants this Month "With the introduction of the Chicken Big Mac, we're excited to pay homage to one of our most iconic menu items, the Big Mac, and introduce it to a whole new generation of fans," said Tariq Hassan, Chief Marketing and Customer Experience Officer at McDonald's USA. "By tapping into some of our fans' biggest passions from dupe culture to live-streaming, we're able to serve up more than just a sandwich. There truly is something for everyone to enjoy in this campaign and we're bringing experiences that will surprise and delight them, all before the Chicken Big Mac hits restaurants." A Dupe that Lives up to the Hype Eagle-eyed fans may have spotted a similar sandwich in LA this past weekend. Inspired by all the buzz and anticipation for the Chicken Big Mac, McDonnell's  was born. The LA pop-up dining experience by Chain  was open to fans for one day only, serving up a signature menu item, "The Chicken Sandwich." It featured a strangely familiar recipe of two chicken patties, special sauce, lettuce, cheese, and pickles on a sesame seed bun – plus Chain's signature favorites like beef tallow fries, deep-fried apple pie and soft-serve. Fans were loving it, some even called it a McDonald's dupe – and in a plot twist as sweet as our Apple Pie – McDonald's was behind it all.   It's Not Not a Big Mac Now that the secret is out, we have a question to pose: is the Chicken Big Mac a Big Mac? To help us get to the bottom of it, we've also enlisted the help of Big Mac superfan and internet star – Kai Cenat – who will welcome his famous friends to try the Chicken Big Mac on his livestream and share their unfiltered reactions. Follow along on McDonald's social channels all month long to find out when Kai and his friends will be going live and giving their opinions on if a Chicken Big Mac's a Big Mac. Featuring the same familiar toppings as the Big Mac but with two tempura battered chicken patties, in place of the two all-beef patties, this unique taste gives fans what they crave and leaves them wanting more. So, on Oct. 10 head to your nearest McDonald's to decide for yourself on if the Chicken Big Mac is not not a Big Mac. McDonald's USA McDonald's USA, LLC, serves a variety of menu options made with quality ingredients to millions of customers every day. Ninety-five percent of McDonald's approximately 13,500 U.S. restaurants are owned and operated by independent business owners. For more information, visit www.mcdonalds.com , and follow us on social: X , Instagram,   TikTok  and Facebook . Media contact: press@us.mcd.com   SOURCE McDonald's USA, LLC

After a very successful inaugural Town of Vernon Town Hall Community Forum, our second forum of the series is “A Night with Law Enforcement and Public Safety” and will feature Oneida County Sheriff Robert Maciol and his staff of the Sheriff’s Office. Stemming from interests expressed at Sheriff Maciol’s presentation at the first forum, a tentative list of topics includes:  Law Enforcement relationship to State Police, City of Sherrill, and Village of Vernon  Civil division including execution of warrants, eviction notices, and judgments  “Uniformed Patrol” operations and recruitment opportunities  Child Safety, SAFE CHILD, and Child Advocacy Center (CAC)  Municipal Security Unit – Special Patrol Officer in our schools  Pistol Permits – overview, permitting process, and licensing  U.A.S. (Unmanned Aircraft Systems) Team including a live demonstration of technology and its uses in public safety  Corrections including goals, security, supervision, safety, and care The Town Hall Community Forum will be held on November 20th from 6:00 PM until 8:30 PM at The Spot, 5571 State Route 5 in Vernon. All residents from the County, including the Towns of Vernon and Verona, the City of Sherrill, and the Villages of Vernon and Oneida Castle, are encouraged to attend. There is no cost for the Forum and it is open to the public. For further information, feel free to text County Legislator Keith Schiebel at 315- 335-0887.

New York Army National Guard Deploying 17 Soldiers and Three CH-47F Chinook Heavy Lift Helicopters to South Carolina to support North Carolina National Guard Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services, Department of Transportation and Thruway Authority Working Together to Provide Generators to Georgia Equipment Follows Deployment of Swift Water Rescue Team on Wednesday Governor Kathy Hochul today announced that 17 soldiers from the Army National Guard, three heavy lift helicopters and four 100 KW generators have been sent to support recovery efforts following Hurricane Helene. The storm caused widespread damage and left millions without power in many parts of the south including Florida, Georgia and South Carolina. The 17 soldiers and three CH-47F Chinook heavy lift helicopters will provide general airlift assistance moving people and cargo to support the North Carolina National Guard. The generators, which are part of the NYS stockpiles, are being transported to Macon, Georgia on trucks supplied by the Department of Transportation and Thruway Authority and are expected to arrive in Georgia on Monday. "New York stands shoulder to shoulder with our neighbors in the south as we respond to the devastating impacts of Hurricane Helene,” Governor Hochul said. “I am proud of our dedicated soldiers that will supply vital resources, including helicopters and generators, to aid in recovery efforts. In times of crisis, we come together as one community, embodying the spirit of solidarity and resilience. We are here to support all those affected, ensuring that no one faces this challenge alone." The soldiers and aircraft are based at Army Aviation Support Facility #2 in Rochester. The helicopters are assigned to Detachment 1, B Company of the 3rd Battalion 126th General Support Aviation Battalion. They are expected to be on the ground for seven to ten days. In October 2018, the same unit deployed two CH-47s and 11 personnel to Florida following Hurricane Michael. The equipment was deployed as part of the Emergency Management Assistance Compact (EMAC), the nation’s all-hazards national mutual aid system. EMAC has been ratified by U.S. Congress (PL 104-321) and is law in all 50 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, Guam, the U.S. Virgin Islands and the Northern Mariana Islands. EMAC's Members can share resources from all disciplines, protect personnel who deploy and be reimbursed for mission-related costs. On Wednesday, the Governor deployed of a team of 16 swift water rescue personnel, two canines and emergency response equipment to North Carolina. That team is currently assigned to assist the Yancy County Emergency Management Office. Major General Ray Shields said , “At the direction of Governor Hochul, the men and women of the 42nd Infantry Division's Combat Aviation Brigade quickly responded, in less than 24 hours, when the North Carolina National Guard asked for assistance for storm relief. Our Soldiers responded by sending three CH-47 heavy lift helicopters and their crews and maintenance team. We are always ready and always there, be it in a combat zone, here at home in New York, or in another state. I am very proud of our service members who never fail to respond when called." Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services Commissioner Jackie Bray said, “Governor Hochul understands the overwhelming amount of resources it takes to recover from a catastrophe of this magnitude. Sharing our equipment and personnel to help restore power, provide expertise and deliver much needed assistance will provide support to help impacted communities recover from this devastating storm.” State Department of Transportation Commissioner Marie Therese Dominguez said , “Two years ago, a number of states came to the aid of New York in the wake of a historic snowstorm in Buffalo, and today Governor Hochul is paying these kindnesses forward to the citizens of the State of Georgia. Hurricane Helene hit the Peach State with devastating intensity, impacting every corner and leaving hundreds of thousands of Georgia residents without power. Our New York State DOT crews will be delivering generators to those in need and we stand ready to assist as states throughout the south dig out from this catastrophic weather event.” Thruway Authority Executive Director Frank G. Hoare said, “The devastation in the southeast is unfathomable and the Thruway Authority is prepared to respond alongside our partners in New York State to assist in any way we can. The generators that our crews will deliver will help our neighbors to the south begin the road to recovery and bring some sense of normalcy." Source: https://www.governor.ny.gov/news/governor-hochul-sends-national-guard-soldiers-helicopters-and-generators-assist-hurricane

Press Release On September 25, 2024, Zachary T. Howes, a 26-year-old resident of Hoosick Falls, NY, was arrested by the State Police of Greenwich for Grand Larceny in the third degree. At approximately 2:49 p.m. on September 25, 2024, state troopers pulled over a vehicle towing a trailer on State Route 29 in Greenwich, NY, due to a Vehicle and Traffic Law violation. The driver, identified as Howes, was found to have allegedly stolen the trailer from a property on County Route 61 in Greenwich, NY, earlier that day. Following his arrest, Howes was taken to SP Greenwich for processing and was subsequently transported to the Washington County Correctional Facility to await arraignment. Sources: https://troopers.ny.gov/news/state-police-arrest-hoosick-falls-man-stealing-trailer

On September 27, 2024, at about 8:20 p.m., State Police responded to NY-31 in the town of Sullivan for a personal injury accident.A preliminary investigation revealed a 2024 Subaru operated by Michael R. Isgar , age 36, from Clay, NY, was traveling west on NY-31 at a high rate of speed when it veered across the opposite lane and continued off the shoulder, striking a telephone pole and a large tree.  Isgar was pronounced deceased at the scene.  The investigation is continuing. https://troopers.ny.gov/news/state-police-investigating-fatal-crash-madison-county

On September 30, 2024, at 5:21 p.m., State Police responded to Interstate 81 southbound in the town of Richland for a motorcycle crash with injuries. A preliminary investigation revealed that a 2019 Harley Davidson motorcycle operated by Curtis S. Dailey , age 67, from Phoenix, NY, was traveling south on Interstate 81 in the driving lane. Dailey  lost control of the motorcycle and exited the western shoulder, striking a guardrail. Dailey was pronounced deceased at the scene. The investigation is continuing. https://troopers.ny.gov/news/state-police-investigate-motorcycle-fatal-interstate-81-town-richland

On the 30th of September, 1973, Investigator Bruce McCully tragically succumbed to hepatitis, a disease he contracted while courageously working undercover in a drug investigation. At the tender age of 28, Investigator McCully was serving with the Division Headquarters Drug Enforcement Detail, having previously dedicated five years to Troop G. His unwavering commitment to law enforcement led him to join the State Police in the autumn of 1968, during which time he also took on the role of class representative for the 115th and 116th Academy classes. https://www.facebook.com/photo/?fbid=843709524619430&set=a.153499116973811

On September 29th, 2024 at approximately 5:15PM Utica Police units were dispatched to the 800 block of Edward St for a robbery investigation. Upon arrival they spoke to a victim who stated that as she was seated a meal she was approached by two juveniles who requested her food. She declined their request, and several minutes later when she went to leave she was pushed from behind to the ground. While on the ground the juveniles forcibly stole her purse and other belongings. The victim was able to contact the Police and provide a suspect description. As officers were conducting an area check for the suspects, they noticed two parties matching the description walking on Sunset Ave. Additionally, the officers noted they were carrying the property matching the description of what was stolen. The officers detained the individuals and ultimately returned the property to the victim. The case has been assigned to the Juvenile Aid Unit, the suspects, ages 12 and 13, were turned over to the care of their guardians. Souces: https://www.facebook.com/photo?fbid=939499978220063&set=a.223509269819141

While investigating the previously mentioned shooting, the patrol Sergeant observed Andrew Pickel, 39 years old of Rome, writing on two patrol vehicles. The Sergeant then observed that Pickel, utilizing paint pens, had written a derogatory comment on one vehicle and drew a line on the other vehicle. The Sergeant located Pickel on William Street, and after a brief foot pursuit, Pickel was taken into custody. Pickel was charged with two counts of Criminal Tampering and one count of Obstructing Governmental Administration. Pickel was transported to Rome Police Department processed and released with an appearance ticket to return to court on a later date. On Sunday, September 29th, 2024, at approximately 9:00 PM, the Rome Police Department’s patrol division responded to the 400 block of West Bloomfield Street for a report of “Shots Fired.” Upon their arrival, it was discovered that there was a male victim in the 500 block of North Jay Street with a gunshot wound to his leg. A preliminary investigation was conducted and Wakey G. Robinson was identified as the suspect. Robinson was subsequently taken into custody. He is currently charged with New York State Penal Law sections 120.10 (Assault in the First Degree) and section 265.03 (Criminal Possession of a Weapon in the Second Degree.) Robinson was transported to the Rome Police Department, processed, arraigned, and is being held in the Oneida County Jail. The victim was transported to an area hospital with non-life-threatening injuries. This is a targeted incident and there is no threat to the public.

On September 27, 2024, a Taberg man was arrested on charges stemming from an incident that occurred on Taberg-Florence Rd. in the Town of Annsville on 9/19/24. According to Oneida County Sheriff Robert Maciol, sheriff’s deputies arrested Brian K. Platt, age 33 on charges that were lodged after he was involved in an altercation with neighbors on 9/19/24. That day, Platt returned to his residence after the altercation and subsequently refused to come out when deputies arrived. Deputies were able to ensure that the three other occupants of the residence were able to safely leave, but Platt refused to come out. Deputies secured a perimeter with the assistance of the New York State Police and crisis negotiators were called to the scene. Negotiators were eventually able to talk Platt into coming out of the residence without further incident. After Platt was taken into custody, deputies located 7 long guns laid out on a bed inside the residence and seized them at that time. The case was turned over to the sheriff’s office criminal investigations unit for further investigation and an extreme risk protection order (ERPO) was secured. No other weapons were located at the residence during a second search which was ordered by the ERPO. Criminal charges of criminal possession of a weapon in the 3rd degree (Felony), criminal possession of a weapon in the 4th degree (Misdemeanor), menacing in the 2nd degree (Misdemeanor), and criminal mischief in the 4th degree (Misdemeanor) were filed in the Town of Annsville Court and arrest warrants for those charges were issued. Platt was arrested on 9/27/24 on those charges by members of the sheriff’s office criminal investigation unit and warrants unit with the assistance of the NYS Forest Rangers. Platt was transported to the Kurt B. Wyman Law Enforcement Building where he was processed on the warrants and lodged at the Oneida County Jail pending his arraignment in CAP Court.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE    Today, the New York State  Department of Motor Vehicles  (DMV)  reminded New Yorkers that the deadline to register to vote in this November’s general election is October 26. New Yorkers can apply in person at the DMV when they complete a driver license, learner permit or non-driver ID transaction. Those who already have a license, permit or non-driver ID can visit the DMV website to apply to register .   Additional Registration Deadline Information: Friday, October 25: The cut-off to apply to register in-person at a DMV office.   Friday, October 25, 11:59 p.m.: The deadline to submit an application online. To apply by mail to your local board of elections, applications must be received no later than October 26 to be eligible to vote in the general election. New Yorkers can also register in person at their local board of elections. “Voting is a vital and precious piece of our democracy,”  said DMV Commissioner Mark J.F. Schroeder.  “The DMV is proud to be a resource for New Yorkers to apply to register and have their voice heard.” To  apply to register using the DMV website , customers must enter information from their New York State driver license, permit or non-driver ID; their date of birth; current zip code; last four digits of their Social Security Number and their email address.   The DMV does not approve or deny voter registration applications. Upon completion, DMV sends the voter registration applications to the relevant county board of elections for review and action. Once processed, the county will notify the applicants either that they are registered to vote or that additional information is needed to complete the application. Additionally, New Yorkers can use the  New York State Board of Elections' website to check their voter registration status. In December of 2022, Governor Hochul signed legislation (S.2951A/A.8858A) which allows voters more time to register to vote by extending the registration deadline. In making this change, voter registration deadlines were moved closer to Election Day and into alignment with the standard set by the State Constitution which stipulates that voters must register to vote at least 10 days prior to an election.