SYRACUSE, NEW YORK – James Kenyon, age 52, of Smithville Flats, New York, pled guilty yesterday to transmitting a threat to injure in interstate commerce and unlawfully possessing three firearms while subject to a domestic violence order of protection. United States Attorney Carla B. Freedman and Craig L. Tremaroli, Special Agent in Charge of the Albany Field Office of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), made the announcement. Kenyon admitted that on December 10, 2022, he made a profanity-laced Facebook post in which he threatened to decapitate another individual and told the individual to move out-of-state.  Kenyon also admitted to possessing two rifles and a shotgun on December 29, 2022, while subject to a domestic violence restraining order that prohibited him from possessing any firearms. The charges to which Kenyon pled guilty carry a combined maximum term of 20 years in prison, a fine of up to $250,000, and a term of supervised release of up to 3 years.  A defendant’s sentence is imposed by a judge based on the particular statute the defendant is charged with violating, the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other factors.  Kenyon also agreed to forfeit all three firearms.  The FBI investigated the case, which Assistant U.S. Attorney Jonathan S. Reiner is prosecuting. Updated August 8, 2024 https://www.justice.gov/usao-ndny/pr/chenango-county-man-admits-posting-facebook-threats-and-illegally-possessing-three

ALBANY, NEW YORK – LaFay Pearson, aka “Lala,” age 23, and Alyssa June White, age 31, both of Troy, New York, pled guilty to offenses related to their involvement in nationwide marijuana trafficking and money laundering conspiracies.  United States Attorney Carla B. Freedman; John B. DeVito, Special Agent in Charge of the New York Field Division of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF); Frank A. Tarentino III, Special Agent in Charge, U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), New York Division; Troy Police Chief Daniel DeWolf; and Matthew Scarpino, Special Agent in Charge of the Buffalo Field Office of Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), made the announcement. In pleading guilty, Pearson admitted to being a member of a marijuana and tetrahydrocannabinols (THC) trafficking organization that cultivated marijuana on a commercial scale in Fresno, California, and shipped thousands of kilograms of marijuana and THC from Fresno to locations throughout the United States, including the Capital Region of New York. Pearson admitted to receiving packages of marijuana shipped by Dwight A. Singletary, II, aka “Nutt” and “Mike Jones,” and McKenzie Merrialice Coles, aka “Kenzie,” from a shipping store in Fresno, Fast Pack & Ship, at her home in Troy.  Pearson was notified of the packages of marijuana by Coles and David Singletary, aka “DB,” and was paid between $300 and $400 in cash per package of marijuana received.  Pearson worked with her brother, Isiah Ti-Quan Clements, aka “Zay,” to receive the packages of marijuana, and between May 2020 and January 2021, received 11 packages containing approximately 72 kilograms, or 159 pounds, of marijuana.  Pearson also admitting to packaging marijuana for sale and to texting with Coles, Clements, and David Singletary about doing so.  White admitted to conspiring with Dwight Singletary, David Singletary, and Lawrence Mumphrey, aka “L,” to launder the proceeds of marijuana and THC sales by purchasing cashier’s checks with cash drug proceeds.  Federal law requires financial institutions to complete a currency transaction report for cash transactions over $10,000.  To avoid the reporting requirement and otherwise conceal the cash drug proceeds, White purchased six cashier’s checks in amounts slightly below the reporting threshold for cash transactions with $57,240 in cash drug proceeds.  The cashier’s checks were payable to Dwight Singletary; Dwight Singletary’s real estate lawyers; and Dwight Singletary’s company, DAS Empire, Inc. Pearson faces up to 20 years in prison, a term of supervised release of between three years and life, and a fine of up to $1 million for conspiring to manufacture, distribute, and possess with intent to distribute controlled substances.  White faces up to 20 years in prison, a fine of up to $500,000, and may also be required to serve up to three years of supervised release for conspiring to commit money laundering.  A defendant’s sentence is imposed by a judge based on the particular statute the defendant is charged with violating, the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other factors. Pearson and White were charged in an indictment with Dwight Singletary, David Singletary, Coles, Clements, Mumphrey, and 17 other people charging marijuana distribution and money laundering conspiracies, firearms offenses, and other crimes.  Dwight Singletary, David Singletary, Coles, Clements, and Mumphrey have pled not guilty and are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.  The charges in the indictment are merely accusations.  In addition to Pearson and White, 12 other defendants, Rosemary Coles , Latrice Mumphrey , Sammy Olague , Victor Turner , Kristle Walker , Ruby Ledesma , Lateek White , Onisha Smith , Jazell Shuler , Earnest Flood, aka “Pop,”   Consanga Harris, aka “Sondy,” and James Tyrell Daniels, aka “Red” and “Ghost,” previously pled guilty and are pending sentencing.  The ATF, DEA, Troy Police Department and HSI are investigating the case. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Cyrus P.W. Rieck and Dustin C. Segovia are prosecuting the case. This prosecution is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) investigation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level drug traffickers, money launderers, gangs, and transnational criminal organizations that threaten the United States by using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach that leverages the strengths of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies against criminal networks. Updated August 8, 2024 https://www.justice.gov/usao-ndny/pr/two-plead-guilty-nationwide-marijuana-trafficking-and-money-laundering-conspiracies

Damian Williams, the United States Attorney for the Southern District of New York, announced today that four flight attendants charged in connection with smuggling drug money to the Dominican Republic have pled guilty to operating an unlicensed money transmission business. SARAH VALERIO PUJOLS pled guilty before U.S. District Judge Naomi Reice Buchwald on July 23, 2024; CHARLIE HERNANDEZ pled guilty before U.S. District Judge Ronnie Abrams on July 25, 2024; EMMANUEL TORRES pled guilty before U.S. Magistrate Judge Sarah Cave on August 12, 2024; and JAROL FABIO pled guilty before U.S. District Judge Arun Subramanian on August 13, 2024. U.S. Attorney Damian Williams said: “These four flight attendants abused their privileges as flight attendants to move money for drug traffickers. My Office is committed to staunching the illicit flow of narcotics proceeds in all of its forms. These guilty pleas show that the sky is not the limit when it comes to law enforcement’s reach.” According to the allegations in the Complaints, the Informations, court filings, and statements made in Court: During the relevant period, all of the defendants were employed as flight attendants with different international airlines that operated routes between New York City and the Dominican Republic. All of the defendants had “Known Crewmember” (“KCM”) status with the Transportation Security Administration, which allowed them to pass through a special security lane at John F. Kennedy International Airport and other airports with less scrutiny than normal passengers. Before or in about October 2021, a cooperating witness (“CW-1”) operated a significant money laundering organization (“MLO”) in New York City, specializing in the movement of cash proceeds from narcotics sales from New York City to the Dominican Republic. One method that CW-1 used in furtherance of their MLO was corrupting flight attendants, like the defendants, who worked routes between New York City and the Dominican Republic. In exchange for a fee – which generally amounted to a small percentage of the amount of money that they would be smuggling – the defendants accepted bulk cash from CW-1 in New York City, got it past airport security via the KCM lane, and passed it off to other members of CW-1’s MLO in the Dominican Republic, including another cooperating witness (“CW-2”). After CW-1 and CW-2 began cooperating with law enforcement, Homeland Security Investigations (“HSI”) and the New York City Police Department (“NYPD”) orchestrated a number of sting operations in which CW-1 provided law enforcement funds represented to be narcotics proceeds to the defendants, who then smuggled it down to the Dominican Republic and handed it off to CW-2, who returned the funds to law enforcement. * * * PUJOLS, 42, of the Bronx, New York; HERNANDEZ, 42, of West New York, New Jersey; EMMANUEL TORRES, 34, of Brooklyn, New York; and JAROL FABIO, 35, of New York, New York, each respectively pled guilty to one count of operation of an unlicensed money transmission business, which carries a maximum sentence of five years in prison. PUJOLS will be sentenced by Judge Buchwald on November 14, 2024; HERNANDEZ will be sentenced by Judge Abrams on November 15, 2024; TORRES will be sentenced by U.S. District Judge Colleen McMahon on January 6, 2025; and FABIO will be sentenced by Judge Subramanian on November 15, 2024. As part of their guilty pleas, PUJOLS, HERNANDEZ, TORRES, and FABIO each agreed to forfeit property involved in their commission of the offense. The maximum potential sentence in this case is prescribed by Congress and is provided here for informational purposes only, as any sentencing of the defendants will be determined by a judge. Mr. Williams praised the investigative work of HSI and the NYPD. This case is being handled by the Office’s Illicit Finance and Money Laundering Unit. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Benjamin A. Gianforti and Jaclyn Delligatti are in charge of the prosecution. Contact Nicholas Biase, Shelby Wratchford (212) 637-2600 Updated August 14, 2024 https://www.justice.gov/usao-sdny/pr/four-flight-attendants-plead-guilty-smuggling-drug-money-dominican-republic

All-Electric Asteri Ithaca Includes 181 Affordable and Supportive Homes, State-of-the-Art Ithaca Downtown Conference Center Photos Available Here Governor Kathy Hochul today announced completion of the new $96 million Asteri Ithaca, an affordable housing development and conference center in downtown Ithaca. Developed by the Vecino Group, the 12-story high-rise is a highly energy-efficient, all-electric building that includes 181 apartments, including 40 with on-site support services for people struggling with homelessness. In the past five years, New York State Homes and Community Renewal has created or preserved more than 1,000 affordable homes in Tompkins County. In addition, the 55,000-square-foot, state-of-the-art Ithaca Downtown Conference Center will help fuel the City’s continued economic growth with bookable function space including an executive board room, grand ballroom, breakout rooms, pre-function space, and a full production kitchen. “Asteri Ithaca is a transformative development that combines quality affordable, sustainable and supportive apartments for those who need them most, with a state-of-the-art Conference Center that will energize and elevate the entire City,” Governor Hochul said . “This mixed-use development was carefully planned as a live, work, play destination that promotes economic growth and addresses a critical need for housing. It is a shining example of our commitment to investing in projects that strengthen communities and change lives.” "The opening of the Asteri Ithaca will serve as a significant economic development driver, bolstering Ithaca’s economy through attracting events both locally and outside of the region, all while providing essential affordable and supportive housing to vulnerable New Yorkers furthering upward mobility and economic growth,” Lieutenant Governor Antonio Delgado said . “This all-electric project demonstrates how mixed-use development can advance New York’s clean energy goals, ensuring more sustainable, healthier, and vibrant local communities.” Senator Charles Schumer said, “For too long Ithaca has lacked both adequate affordable housing and the gathering space businesses say is critical to bolstering the region’s economic development. With the completion of this project, we are tackling both those challenges head-on. I am proud to deliver $2 million in federal funding so we could build this new complex, add hundreds of units of affordable housing and pump millions of dollars into the local economy through the state-of-the-art, energy-efficient conference center. Today Ithaca is showing the nation what innovative housing solutions can look like for our cities. That’s why I’ve pushed hard to preserve the federal Low-Income Housing Tax Credit, which helped supply the necessary funds to complete this project and why I will keep fighting to expand it. I’m grateful for Governor Hochul’s work to create affordable homes across the State, and together we will keep working to ensure that every family in Ithaca and across the State has access to housing.” High Quality Affordable, Supportive Homes The residential portion of Asteri Ithaca comprises the top nine floors of the building and includes 78 studio, 87 one-bedroom, eight two-bedroom, and eight three-bedroom apartments. Rents are affordable to households earning up to 80 percent or less of the Area Median Income. Residents have free internet service, with each unit hard-wired for 5G access, including routers for WiFi. Amenities include a 12th-floor sky terrace, outdoor space, and a fitness center and community room. There is a laundry room on each floor and indoor bike storage on the ground floor. The eastern portion of the Green Street Parking Garage has been renovated and expanded to include 350 parking spaces, with spots available for building residents to lease. The energy-efficient, all-electric building furthers the State's goals of achieving 85 percent carbon neutrality by 2050. Apartments have low flow plumbing fixtures, along with Energy Star rated windows and appliances. In addition, the building meets the standards of the EPA Energy Star Multi-Family High-Rise Programs, and the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority's New Construction Housing Program. State and federal funding for the $62 million residential portion of the Asteri Ithaca includes $11 million in permanent tax-exempt bonds, federal Low-Income Housing Tax Credits that will generate $26.3 million in equity and $19.8 million in subsidy from New York State Homes and Community Renewal. New York State Energy and Research Development Authority's (NYSERDA) New Construction-Housing Program also provided more than $650,000 in additional funding. The supportive apartments benefit from an Empire State Supportive Housing Initiative award to Tompkins Community Action, Inc., which will be administered by the State's Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance. Support services are designed to promote self-sufficiency in areas such as life skills, financial literacy, job preparation and skill building, and family reunification. State-of-the-Art Conference Center The state-of-the-art Conference Center boosts economic activity, including playing host this fall to the finals event for the Grow-NY food, beverage and agriculture business competition. The accelerator invites high-growth potential food and agriculture startups from around the world to compete for $3 million in total prize money each year. The Ithaca Downtown Conference Center project is expected to host over 50,000 attendees, and spur $50 million in new visitor spending and millions in state and local taxes over the next twenty years. Annually, the Conference Center anticipates generating 6,500 in additional visitors, and over 3,300 room nights. The project is expected to provide economic benefit to the greater Tompkins County area, attracting visitors during the slower months and during off-peak days of Sunday through Thursday. Empire State Development is supporting the $34 million conference center project with a capital grant of up to $5 million. U.S. Senate Majority Leader Charles E. Schumer and U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand delivered $2 million in federal funding for the Conference Center as part of the federal omnibus funding package for FY 2022. This Community Project Funding award from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development allowed the project to include a first-of-its-kind all-electric kitchen. In addition, the City of Ithaca, Tompkins County Tourism Program, the Tompkins County Industrial Development Agency, four downtown Ithaca hotels (Ithaca Marriott on the Commons, the Canopy Hotel, Hilton Garden Inn, and Hotel Ithaca) via the Tompkins Chamber Foundation, and the Downtown Ithaca Alliance provided significant financial support for the Conference Center and renovation of the remaining portion of the garage. Located at 166-118 East Green Street , Asteri Ithaca and the Ithaca Downtown Conference Center are within walking distance of the Ithaca Commons, City Hall, restaurants, shops, medical offices, and professional offices. The development is close to Six-Mile Creek Trail, DeWitt Park and Cascadilla Gorge Trail. The Tompkins Consolidated Area Transit's Ithaca Commons - Green Street stop is nearby and is served by more than 10 bus routes. Governor Hochul’s Housing Agenda Governor Hochul is committed to addressing New York’s housing crisis and making the State more affordable and more livable for all New Yorkers. Asteri Ithaca complements the Governor’s $25 billion five-year Housing Plan which is on track to create or preserve 100,000 affordable homes statewide. More than 40,000 homes have been created or preserved to date. As part of the FY25 Enacted Budget, the Governor secured a landmark agreement to increase New York’s housing supply through new tax incentives for Upstate communities, new incentives and relief from certain state-imposed restrictions to create more housing in New York City, a $500 million capital fund to build up to 15,000 new homes on state-owned property, an additional $600 million in funding to support a variety of housing developments statewide, and new protections for renters and homeowners.Last August, Governor Hochul announced the Pro-Housing Communities Program . Pro-Housing Community certification is a requirement for localities to access up to $650 million in state discretionary funding. To date, more than 160 communities have been certified, including the City of Ithaca which was one of the first municipalities certified in the State. NYS Home and Community Renewal Commissioner RuthAnne Visnauskas said , “The City of Ithaca was officially certified as one of Governor Hochul’s Pro-Housing communities in April – and if past production here is a sign of what’s to come, everyone can be assured that there will be more sustainable, affordable, supportive and mixed-use developments like the $96 million Asteri Ithaca in the City’s future. HCR is so proud to be part of bringing these 181 new affordable and supportive apartments to life. This complex is a true destination – for conference and event goers and businesspeople and, of course, for those who call this building home. Congratulations to all the partners who made this possible. We couldn’t ask for a better result.” Empire State Development President, CEO and Commissioner Hope Knight said, “This vibrant, mixed-use development will enhance the local community and contribute to the region's economic growth. The completion of the Asteri Ithaca conference center and affordable housing complex further exemplifies the transformative impact of our strategic investments, both in the Southern Tier and throughout New York State.” Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance Commissioner Barbara C. Guinn said, “The opening of Asteri Ithaca will provide chronically homeless adult individuals in Tompkins County with much-needed safe, affordable homes with easy access to the essential services and supports that are critical to help them thrive in their community. We are grateful for Governor Hochul’s strong support of the Empire State Supportive Housing Initiative and for rightly recognizing the power of supportive housing to provide a stable foundation to vulnerable New Yorkers that enables them to transform their lives so that they can live safely and prosper in their communities.” NYSERDA President and CEO Doreen M. Harris said, “This all-electric, mixed-use development shows how combining resilient building practices with clean and efficient energy features can maximize building performance and provide long-term savings from reduced energy consumption. NYSERDA is proud to support the Asteri Ithaca project, which advances modern, strategic design that will boost affordability for residents while creating a healthier, more comfortable living and working environment." Empire State Development Vice President and Executive Director of Tourism Ross D. Levi said, “The new Conference Center at the Asteri Ithaca complex will support the efforts of I LOVE NY and our local partners to promote the continued recovery and growth of business tourism. When trade show and event planners consider downtown Ithaca as a meeting destination, attendees will have an opportunity to explore all the great opportunities available throughout the community and the region, from incredible farm-to-table dining and world-class wineries to picturesque camping and hiking, to family-friendly museums and rich history. New venues like the Ithaca Downtown Conference Center welcome new travelers and make it so easy for even more people to love New York.” State Senator Lea Webb said, “Affordable housing, economic development and opportunities for community engagement are top priorities in our region. Thank you to the Vecino Group, the City of Ithaca, Tompkins County, the Tompkins County Industrial Development Agency, and the Downtown Ithaca Alliance for all of your outstanding work in bringing the Asteri Ithaca affordable housing and conference center to life. This development is not just a building; it’s a lifeline for our community, offering 181 affordable apartments in a highly energy-efficient, all-electric environment. With 40 homes reserved for those in need of supportive services, you are providing independence and stability for so many. The Conference Center will provide integral event space for our region and state. Your vision and commitment to sustainability and inclusivity are truly commendable, and we are grateful for your contribution to Ithaca.” Assemblymember Anna Kelles said, “The Asteri project will have far-reaching, positive socio-economic impacts for Ithacans of all economic backgrounds. Our need for affordable and supportive housing in Ithaca is profound. This mixed-use project helps us move forward on the long road to sufficient affordable and supportive housing by providing 181 new affordable units and 40 units designated for individuals in need of supportive services. The Conference Center fills a community gap in convening space and will significantly increase midweek tourism to boost our local daytime and nighttime downtown economies providing much needed stability for workers in the hospitality industry. The energy-efficient, all-electric building will also help bring us closer to the goals of the Climate Leadership and Community Protection Act of carbon neutrality by 2050. It’s been a long journey to this finish line and I’m so delighted to be able to celebrate its completion and opening with the whole community.” Tompkins County Legislature Dan Klein said, “Tompkins County has invested in this project by directing some of its hotel tax revenue as an ongoing funding source. This project provides housing and jobs in downtown Ithaca and will attract many visitors to Tompkins County.” Ithaca Mayor Robert Cantelmo said, “We are proud to celebrate the completion of Asteri Ithaca and the Ithaca Downtown Conference Center. This unique partnership brings affordable housing to the heart of our community, highlighting our City's deep commitment to equity and inclusion. This project is anchored by North America's first all-electric conference center, a testament to this community's investment in a green, sustainable, and welcoming future. On behalf of the City, I am so grateful to our local, state, and federal partners for realizing this transformative project.” Executive Director of the Downtown Ithaca Local Development Corporation Suzanne Smith Jablonski said, “After ten years of creative and innovative collaboration amongst community partners, we are excited to celebrate the grand opening of the Ithaca Downtown Conference Center project this week. We are grateful to the local, state, and Federal officials and agencies who understood our vision for this important tourism economic development project, which is expected to drive nearly $150 million in new direct and induced spending in our community over the next twenty years.” Accelerating Economic Development in the Southern Tier Today's announcement advances the 2023 Southern Tier Strategic Plan and complements the “ Southern Tier Soaring ” strategy by facilitating economic growth and community development. These regionally designed plans focus on attracting a talented workforce, growing business and driving next-generation innovation. Sources: https://www.governor.ny.gov/news/governor-hochul-announces-completion-96-million-housing-and-conference-center-development-city

Governor Kathy Hochul today announced three appointments to the New York State Supreme Court, Appellate Division Second Judicial Department. This class is comprised of highly skilled appointees who come from diverse personal and professional backgrounds, underscoring Governor Hochul’s commitment to ensuring New York State’s judiciary mirrors the wide array of people who call New York home. “Our courts must be led by qualified, fair and impartial jurists,” Governor Hochul said. “With decades of legal experience and deep knowledge of the law, these three judges will be tremendous additions to the appellate division.” The appointments include: Hon. Donna Marie Golia Hon. Donna-Marie E. Golia was appointed as Administrative Judge for Criminal Matters, State Supreme Court, Queens County. Judge Golia joined the New York State bench in 2013, upon her election to the New York City Civil Court, Queens County. Initially assigned to the New York City Criminal Court, Queens County, she later sat on the bench in Civil Court, Queens County. She was designated an Acting Supreme Court Justice in 2016, handling matrimonial and other matters in addition to managing a Civil Court calendar. From 2018 to 2019, she served as Supervising Judge, New York City Civil Court, Queens County, working with the Administrative Judge in overseeing the Court’s day-to-day management. Judge Golia was elected to the State Supreme Court, Queens County, in 2020, serving in both the Court’s Civil and Criminal Terms. In January 2021, she was appointed an Associate Justice of the Appellate Term, Second Department for the Second, Eleventh and Thirteenth Judicial Districts, hearing appeals from the lower civil and criminal courts in Kings, Queens and Richmond counties, in addition to presiding over matters in State Supreme Court, Queens County. Prior to becoming a judge, Judge Golia served as a court attorney referee and before that as a principal law clerk in Surrogate’s Court, Queens County. Previously, she worked as an assistant district attorney in the Queens County District Attorney’s Office where, over the course of her 11-year tenure, she served in various bureaus, including the Office’s Homicide Investigations, Narcotics Trial, Appeals and Special Victims bureaus. Judge Golia is a graduate of City University of New York Law School at Queens College. Among her professional associations, she is a member of the Queens County Women’s Bar Association and the Columbian Lawyers Association, and an advisory board member and co-chair of the membership committee of the Judges and Lawyers Breast Cancer Alert (JALBCA). She has developed and presented judicial and other training programs on ADR and other topics. Hon. Phillip Hom Justice Phillip Hom was elected to the Queens Civil Court in 2017 and to the New York State Supreme Court in 2019. He is a native New Yorker and a proud product of New York’s public schools, graduating from the Bronx High School of Science and SUNY-Binghamton with a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science. Justice Hom received a JD, cum laude, from the University of Minnesota Law School. While in law school, he worked as a law clerk at the Hennepin County Public Defender’s office. Justice Hom returned to New York after law school working in private practice and the public sector in all three branches of government. He started his legal career at a New York law firm specializing in commercial litigation. In 1997, he began his government service as an agency attorney for the New York City Department of Social Services, where he prosecuted civil claims for the recovery of public assistance and Medicaid. In 2002, Justice Hom became the Chief of Staff for the first Asian American elected to the New York City Council, supervising the Council Member’s staff and managing the office budget. He was also the liaison to other elected officials’ offices and advised the Council Member and staff on legal matters. In 2003, he became counsel to the New York City Council’s Transportation Committee where he wrote local laws and policy reports related to transportation, mass transit and for-hire vehicles. He also helped conduct oversight hearings of the New York City Department of Transportation and Taxi and Limousine Commission. In 2010, he was promoted to assistant director of the Council’s legislative unit, where he supervised staff preparing legislation, policy reports and conducting oversight hearings. After the City Council, Justice Hom worked as Deputy General Counsel in the New York City Comptroller’s office. Before becoming a judge, Justice Hom returned to private practice, working at a law firm advising transportation, technology, banking, municipal and other clients on regulatory, legislative, employment and other matters. At the firm, he also represented clients in adjudications before the New York State Department of Labor, New York State Department of Transportation, the New York City Office of Administrative Trials and Hearings and the New York City Taxi and Limousine Commission Administrative Tribunal. Hon. James McCormack Justice McCormack serves as an Associate Justice of the Appellate Term for the Ninth and Tenth – Second Department. He was elected in the general election on November 15, 2015. Judge McCormack received his Bachelor's degree from New York University in 1982 and his J.D. from Brooklyn Law School in 1985. After law school McCormack worked as an assistant district attorney in Nassau County until 1998. He worked as a private practice attorney at McCormack & McCormack from 1990 to 2005. In 2006, he was elected to the Nassau County Court. He was acting Justice on the Supreme Court 10th Judicial District from 2007 to 2015. Under the New York State Constitution and Judiciary Law, the Governor has the authority to appoint Justices to each Appellate Division from among those who have been elected as Justices of the Supreme Court. These appointments are not subject to Senate confirmation. Sources: https://www.governor.ny.gov/news/governor-hochul-announces-appointments-new-york-state-supreme-court-appellate-division-second

NYSP Wall of Honor - Today we remember Superintendent Wayne E. Bennett Superintendent Wayne E. Bennett entered into retirement from the New York State Police after nearly 40 years of service on May 5, 2007. On August 15, 2017, Superintendent Bennett passed away from an illness stemming from his assignment at the World Trade Center site following the terrorist attack on September 11, 2001. Following the events of 9/11, then First Deputy Superintendent Bennett was assigned to New York City to aid in the search and recovery efforts. Superintendent Bennett is survived by his wife and daughters. Sources: https://www.facebook.com/photo?fbid=813004537689929&set=a.153499116973811

On Wednesday, August 7th , around 11:18 a.m., Syracuse Police Officers Mulroy and Silvaggio conducted a traffic stop in the 200 block of Sabine Street after observing a vehicle operating in violation of New York State Vehicle and Traffic Laws. Upon stopping the vehicle, officers identified the driver as Dorian Roller. Roller did not possess a valid driver's license and stated that none of the other three passengers in the vehicle did either. Officers Mulroy and Silvaggio then completed a search of the vehicle before it was due to be towed. During the search, Officer Silvaggio located and recovered three different firearms. The recovered firearms included a loaded black and grey SSCY CPX-1 9mm handgun, with five rounds in the magazine and one round in the chamber; a black and pink GSG Firefly .22 caliber handgun, with ten rounds in the magazine; and a light blue and silver Glock 42 .380 handgun, loaded with six rounds in the magazine and one round in the chamber. All three handguns were determined to be stolen out of Broome County. The occupants of the vehicle, 19-year-old Dorian Roller, 31-year-old Argenis Henriquez, 19-year-old Kiyshawn Pam, and a 15-year-old juvenile were each charged with three counts of Criminal Possession of a Weapon in the Second Degree, three counts of Criminal Possession of a Firearm and three counts of Criminal Possession of Stolen Property in the Fourth Degree. Roller, Henriquez and Pam were all lodged in the Onondaga County Justice Center, while the 15-year-old juvenile was remanded to Hllbrook. We would like to thank Officers Mulroy and Silvaggio for their keen observation skills, which helped to recover three stolen firearms off of City streets. Sources: https://www.facebook.com/SyracusePolice/posts/pfbid0gtb68vnksk6zcfjgtNoVsg7z76yEFjx1PESnc9d3y9C4KKfFXoLoqQdijydvv411l

- - - - - - Press Release- - - - - August 10th, 2024 On Friday, August 9th at approximately 4:00 PM New Hartford Police Officers responded to a residence on Mayberry Place in response to a report of an unidentified male inside of a residence. Upon arrival it was reported to Police Officers that when a caretaker to this particular residence on Mayberry Place arrived to check the premise the caretaker entered and found someone inside. The caretaker then retreated, ran to a neighbors home and called 911. New Hartford Police Officers responded and within minutes had a perimeter around the residence in place. Police Officers then entered and while searching the interior of the residence found a male hiding inside. This resulted in the arrest of 39-year-old Arabian Parker, who was taken into custody by police inside the residence. Parker was charged with the following; 1)PL 140.25- Burglary In The Second Degree, a Class C Felony. 2)PL 155.25-Petit Larceny, a Class A Misdemeanor. 3) PL 190.23-False Personation, a Class B Misdemeanor. Parker was processed at The New Hartford Police Department and then transported to the Oneida County Jail to await arraignment in The Oneida County Centralized Arraignment Part Court. Sources: https://www.facebook.com/permalink.php?story_fbid=pfbid0fdrXBx8raZuVCEQQ4ib2Z9DZBZ6qjZoGaYveXPPsrDcSGRdZbWA58fZdkPPkR3UTl&id=100064364722662

Governor Kathy Hochul today announced that more than 100,000 New Yorkers have completed the enrollment process for the new New York Mobile ID (MiD), a highly secure digital version of a state-issued driver license, learner permit or ID on a smartphone. Governor Hochul announced the MiD in June. “We are excited that so many New Yorkers have downloaded the Mobile ID app,” Governor Hochul said. “This tool is a key step in making travel smoother and getting travelers to their destination quickly and safely.” New York Mobile ID is a voluntary product designed for the convenience and security of New Yorkers and is available on both iOS and Android devices. Anyone with a valid, New York state-issued driver license, learner permit or non-driver ID can download the secure Mobile ID app through Google Play or the App Store. Through a partnership with the Transportation Security Administration (TSA), New York’s MiD is accepted at TSA security checkpoints at nearly 30 participating airports across the country including all terminals at LaGuardia and John F. Kennedy airports. This allows New Yorkers to verify their identity easily and securely for airport security screening. The DMV is also actively working with other public and private entities to expand the number of places where the New York Mobile ID is accepted. Since the launch, DMV has been working with businesses across New York, including auto dealers, bars and restaurants, and financial institutions to help them learn how to accept Mobile ID as identity proof. New York State Department of Motor Vehicles Commissioner Mark J.F. Schroeder said, “We knew that New Yorkers would get on board quickly with Mobile ID, and we are thrilled at just how much it is being embraced since it was made available. This goes to show how many people are looking to make their air travel simpler, and how many people are anticipating the additional use cases that we hope to see roll out as soon as possible.” The New York Mobile ID was designed to ensure user privacy and developed in compliance with the most stringent international standards for personal identification published by the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) as well as the Mobile Driver’s License Implementation Guidelines created by the American Academy of Motor Vehicle Administrators. The MiD app can only be unlocked through Face ID, TouchID, or a secure six-digit PIN. Personal information found on the MiD is encrypted and only accessible when the Mobile ID holder consents to sharing it. Information is transmitted to a verifier through a secure, digital connection so the user never has to hand over their phone, and information about usage including where, when, and what personal information the user has shared is encrypted and stored only on their personal device. Data on when and where someone uses their MiD is not tracked, stored or transmitted. For those who want to use the MiD, New Yorkers can get one in a few simple steps: Download the New York MiD app from the App Store or through Google Play. Register the phone number of the device the Mobile ID will be on. An individual’s Mobile ID can only be on one device at a time to help protect their identity. Take a picture of the front and back of their physical ID (driver license, non-driver ID, or Learner Permit), using their phone’s camera. Pose for a selfie. The app checks your photo and ID against information on file with the DMV to ensure you are who you say you are. Once a user’s information is verified, their MiD is active and ready to use wherever it is accepted including in other states and countries. Learn more about New York Mobile ID online . Sources: https://www.governor.ny.gov/news/governor-hochul-announces-new-york-mobile-id-attracts-100000-users-launch

No Place Like Nebraska Debuts Sunday, August 25, at 5 p.m. ET on ESPN; Extended Version Streaming Afterward on ESPN+ The University of Nebraska, a school once known only for its football program, has become a mecca for women’s volleyball. Under coach John Cook, anything less than winning a national championship is a shortcoming. With unprecedented access to players and coaches, a new episode of ESPN E60 follows the Cornhuskers through the 2023 season as they attempt to build on their legacy, not only with record-breaking crowds but with a hunt for the ultimate goal of the national championship. The one-hour No Place Like Nebraska debuts Sunday, August 25, at 5 p.m. ET on ESPN, with an extended version streaming afterward on ESPN+. The program will air again on ESPN2 at 12:30 a.m. In August 2023, more than 92,000 fans packed Nebraska’s Memorial Stadium – not for a football game, but for a women’s college volleyball match. It was a scene that would make headlines across the globe and rewrite sports history, becoming the largest crowd ever to watch a women’s sporting event of any kind. For many, seeing the massive popularity of Nebraska volleyball came as a shock – but this was nothing new for the Cornhuskers. With a newly established world record, five national championships, and one of the top recruiting classes in the country, the 2023 Cornhuskers attempt to navigate popularity and success coupled with pressure and expectations. Through a series of in-depth interviews with players, coaches, alumni and locals, E60 takes viewers behind the scenes on a raw and unfiltered journey as it follows Nebraska – a team with no seniors – all the way to the biggest of stages. After the 2023 season concludes, the story continues, as star outside hitter Harper Murray spoke exclusively with E60 about navigating her mental health journey following an onslaught of social media hate after the national championship. And after turning down rampant offseason questions regarding Murray following a public array of off-the-court incidents, Cook sits down with E60 for a frank discussion. In No Place Like Nebraska, viewers also hear from other members of Cook’s coaching staff in order to get a better understanding of the program, its history, and its culture; interviews include assistant coach and recruiting coordinator Jaylen Reyes; assistant coach/former player Kelly Hunter; and Nebraska Director of Operations/former player Lindsay Peterson. In addition to Murray, current Cornhusker players interviewed for the story include Rebekah Allick as well as co-captains Merritt Beason and Lexi Rodriguez. Family members include the mothers of Murray and Allick. Longtime volleyball journalist Lincoln Arneal and locals of Nebraska round out the story, helping detail the decades of passion and excellence for the team and community. No Place Like Nebraska was produced and directed by Jennifer Karson-Strauss and Madeline Rundlett. The ESPN multiplatform presentation will include excerpts from No Place Like Nebraska featured in segments on Outside the Lines in SportsCenter and a companion written piece by Elizabeth Merrill will be published on ESPN.com . ESPN2 will air the Cornhuskers’ first match of the 2024 season as they take on Kentucky on Aug. 27 at 7 p.m. ET. -30- Media contacts: andy.hall@espn.com and katie.callahan@espn.com https://espnpressroom.com/us/press-releases/2024/08/new-espn-eme60-em-explores-ultra-successful-nebraska-womens-volleyball-program/

(NewsUSA) - Buying over-the-counter (OTC) medicines or dietary supplements online can be easy and convenient, but how can you be sure that you know and trust the seller? As the number of counterfeit OTC products sold online has grown in recent years, along with scammers’ abilities to mimic legitimate products, experts at the Health In Hand Foundation, a non-profit with 20 years of helping consumers safely choose and use consumer healthcare products, are here to help you navigate the ever-changing landscape of counterfeit and resold OTC products.   Honest consumer healthcare companies ensure the safety and quality of their products in many ways, including using regulated factories that follow strict safety standards and verified manufacturing practices. However, some individuals produce counterfeit versions of these same medicines in facilities with little or no regulation, quality control, or safety standards.  When you purchase products online, the options can seem endless. One option is buying directly from a manufacturer’s website ([BRAND].com), where products are sold and shipped directly to you from the manufacturer.  Alternatively, you may purchase products from an online retailer that sells multiple brands and products (e.g. Amazon, Walmart, Costco, or a pharmacy retailer). But make sure to look carefully because well-known e-commerce websites can have different sellers offering what seems to be the same product on the same results page. So. how can you be sure you’re purchasing from a legitimate seller? Keep these tips and red flags in mind the next time you plan on buying an OTC product online:  Prices that are too good to be true. Sellers of fake OTC medicines will often offer them at prices much lower than businesses selling the genuine product. Although the products may be fake, these sellers can still appear at the top of search results.   Photos that do not match the product. A low-quality image or an image that differs from the advertised item is another sign of a fake product. Some sellers will alter a photo by blurring or blocking the brand to avoid counterfeit detection.  Wording that doesn’t describe the product. If the brand name is missing from the listings, be cautious. Some sellers don’t mention the brand name in the listing to avoid counterfeit detection, and they may have an image of a branded product with a nonspecific description.  Unclear or confusing reviews. Reviews that don't match the product listed or comments that are confusing or inauthentic are red flags alerting you to a possible fake.  No contact information. If the seller doesn't have a physical address or telephone number listed within the United States, the business could be fake.  Poor or non-existent customer service policies.* Beware of companies with no return and/or refund policy. Also, avoid sellers who don’t have secure payment protocols in place to protect your financial information when you purchase from them online.    *Important note: Genuine sellers often do not allow returns on OTC medications, so please review all factors mentioned before buying.  If you have already placed an online order for an OTC product, inspect it closely when it arrives to ensure it has not been damaged or disturbed. Trust your instincts. If the packaging or labeling looks off or if the product itself does not look right, return it and report it. Becoming an informed shopper helps you find the legitimate and trustworthy products you need to help you feel your best.  Visit  healthinhand.org   for more tips and advice about choosing and using consumer healthcare products safely.     Article Link https://about.newsusa.com/how-to-detect-fake-over-the-counter-products-online

Here's a delicious and simple recipe for cheesy bacon dip that's perfect for parties.   Ingredients: - 3/4 lb thick-cut bacon, cooked and chopped - 8 oz cream cheese (reduced fat works too) - 12 oz sour cream (light is fine) - 1 1/2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce - 1/2 cup chopped green onions - 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese - 1 loaf of round bread (like rustic Italian)   Instructions: 1. Preheat the oven to 350°F. 2. Cook the bacon until crispy, then chop it into small pieces. 3. In a bowl, mix together the cream cheese and sour cream until smooth. Add the Worcestershire sauce, green onions, cheddar cheese, and bacon. Stir until well combined. 4. Cut the top off the round loaf of bread and hollow it out, leaving the bottom intact. Save the insides for serving. 5. Place the bread bowl on a large piece of aluminum foil. 6. Spoon the dip mixture into the hollowed bread bowl, then wrap it with aluminum foil. 7. Bake for 45 minutes, then remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes. 8. Allow the dip to cool for 5 minutes, then serve with the reserved bread chunks or crackers.   Enjoy!