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The Vernon's Subway/Foodland located on Seneca St./ Route 5 Vernon is currently upgrading their fuel tanks to provide better service to their customers. Despite the upgrade, the establishment remains open and welcomes customers to purchase their usual favorites such as food, pizza, subs, lottery tickets, beer, and propane. Gas is still available for purchase until stocks run out. We spoke with the owner, Paul, who shared that the project is set to be completed by August of this year. If you happen to be in the area, drop by to say hello to Paul and his wife and witness the progress they're making.

Yesterday evening (July 6th) Utica Police took a stolen bicycle complaint in West Utica. Below is a photograph of the stolen bicycle. A six (6) year old girl just received the bicycle for her birthday four days ago. Around 8:00 pm, while in the area of Court Street & Sunset Avenue, a group of teenage boys asked to try the bike. The little girl, who comes from a large family where sharing is very important to them, allowed the teenager to "try" her bicycle. The teenage thief immediately rode off and never returned. Our department searched extensively for the bicycle but could not find it. The only picture of the bike came from a video clip on the mother’s phone from when they surprised her with the bike. Upon learning about the stolen bicycle Deputy Chief Edward Noonan and Police Officer Sanel Beslic immediately donated bicycles from their own households. Officers took the donated to the little girl's house and were immediately met with hugs and tears when the officers gave them the bikes. Great job Deputy Chief Noonan and Officer Beslic. We are asking for our community's help in locating the stolen bicycle. The only picture of the bike came from a video clip on the mother’s phone from when they surprised her with the bike. Anyone with knowledge of the whereabouts of the bicycle is asked to call the Utica Police Department at (315) 223-3461. Thank you. https://www.facebook.com/photo?fbid=662802855889778&set=a.223509269819141

ESPN Films today announced “Gracie,” a multi-part documentary series about the legendary family fighting dynasty that brought Mixed Martial Arts from the streets of Brazil to the world stage. Told through the eyes of key Gracie family members, the series will dive deep into an epic family saga that takes audiences from Scotland and Japan to Brazil and America. Mixed Martial Arts has experienced a global explosion in recent years, replacing boxing as the dominant combat sport and rapidly ascending to have one of the largest audiences in the world. At the core of this popular revolution is the art of Jiu-Jitsu and the “first family” of fighting: the Gracies. Featuring larger-than-life personalities, triumphs and tragedies, deep loyalties, passionate loves, and deadly feuds, “Gracie” will explore the essence of family, honor, legacy, and humanity’s innate desire to fight. The series is directed by Chris Fuller (“Loren Cass”) and is executive produced by ESPN Films. The project is being produced by Solaris Entertainment. Gregory O’Connor (“Warrior,” “Miracle”), Academy Award nominee Nanette Burstein (“On The Ropes,” “Hillary”), Guy Ritchie (“Snatch,” “Sherlock Holmes”), and Ivan Atkinson (“Wrath of Man,” “The Gentlemen”) are serving as executive producers along with Micah Green, Daniel Steinman and Trevor Groth of 30WEST. Further details on the project will be announced at a later date. Writer: Isabelle Lopez Sources: espnpressroom.com

Alef flying car receives limited FAA Special Airworthiness Certification Alef unveiled its "Model A" flying car in October 2022 and has since received strong pre-orders from individuals and companies Alef's flying car is both road drivable on public roads and has vertical takeoff and landing capabilities Alef is taking deposits for pre-orders for its "Model A" car for $300,000 on it's website SANTA MATEO, Calif., June 27, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Alef Aeronautics, a sustainable mobility company that is designing and developing a flying car, announced today that it received a Special Airworthiness Certification from the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration, marking the first time a vehicle of this nature has received legal approval to fly from the US Government. Alef Flying Car Oct 19 2022 Unveiling - all rights Alef Aeronautics Inc The FAA is actively working on its policies for electrical vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) vehicles, as well as governing interactions between eVTOLs and ground infrastructure. Alef's Special Airworthiness Certificate therefore limits the locations and purpose for which Alef is permitted to fly. Alef emerged from stealth in October 2022 with the unveiling of its full-sized sports car model along with two working full-size technology demonstrator cars. It has since received strong pre-orders from both individuals and companies. Alef's flying car is 100% electric, drivable on public roads, and has vertical takeoff and landing capabilities. The car will carry one or two occupants. "We're excited to receive this certification from the FAA. It allows us to move closer to bringing people an environmentally friendly and faster commute, saving individuals and companies hours each week. This is one small step for planes, one giant step for cars," said Jim Dukhovny, CEO of Alef. About Alef: Alef, based in San Mateo, CA, is a sustainable electric transportation company designing and developing a road-legal passenger car capable of achieving vertical takeoff and forward flight. Alef was founded in 2015 by Jim Dukhovny, Konstantin Kisly, Pavel Markin, and Oleg Petrov in Palo Alto, California. Alef's investors include Draper Associates, Impact VC, Draper B1, Bronco Ventures, Strong VC, Louis Scola, Jim Boettcher, Jim Hurd, Jason Gorrie, Chinney, Knollwood Advisory, and others. Alef recently announced the opening of a new fundraising round. More information can be found at https://alef.aero. Media Contact: Alef Media Team press@alef.aero SOURCE Alef

State Police have released a photo of the device that was used at the Walmart store in Granby. As you can see in the photo, the device looks identical to the card reader at the register. The skimming device even has the same logo at the top of the device. The New York State Police in Fulton is investigating an incident involving the placement of a device commonly referred to as a credit card skimmer at a manned checkout, at the Walmart located at 1818 County Route 3 in the Town of Granby (Fulton). The device was placed on July 2, 2023, and identified and recovered by Walmart staff on July 5, 2023. Anyone with disputed charges should contact the New York State Police, Fulton barracks 315-598-2112. What Happens If a Credit Card Is Skimmed? Thieves will use stolen card information in a few different ways: a thief can make their own fake credit cards, make fraudulent purchases online or sell the stolen information on the internet. Luckily fraudulent charges on a credit card are easier to dispute than charges made using debit card information. Many credit cards have a zero liability policy, which means in case of fraud, the cardholder has no responsibility to pay back those funds to the issuer. A credit in the fraudulent amount will often be deposited back into the cardholder’s account and reflected on monthly statements. When making purchases at a gas station, opt to use a credit card instead of a debit card to take advantage of this extra protection. Another option is to pay for gas inside with the cashier, where the Point Of Sale system is less likely to have been tampered with. Regularly monitor credit card activity by actively checking bank statements or (even better) by accessing the account online. Report suspicious activity as soon as possible by calling the number on the back of the card. Some credit cards have proactive alerts that will notify the cardholder if a potentially fraudulent charge is made. Often the next step is to receive a new credit card with a new card number by mail. Skimming: Skimming occurs when devices illegally installed on ATMs, point-of-sale (POS) terminals, or fuel pumps capture data or record cardholders’ PINs. Criminals use the data to create fake debit or credit cards and steal from victims’ accounts. It is estimated that skimming costs financial institutions and consumers more than $1 billion each year. sources: https://www.nyspnews.com

PRESS RELEASE On July 9, 2023, the Bureau of Criminal Investigation (BCI) out of SP Lockport arrested James P. Wilson, 71 of Lockport, NY for Burglary 1st degree (B Felony), Kidnapping 2nd degree (B Felony) Sexual Abuse 1st degree (D Felony), Reckless Endangerment 1st degree (D Felony), Menacing 1st degree (E Felony) and Criminal Possession of a Weapon 2nd degree (C Felony). On July 9, 2023, at 2:21 P.M., Troopers out of SP Lockport responded to Robinson Road appartements for a possible gunshot call. The investigation determined that the complainant heard a noise believed to be a gunshot which created a hole in the ceiling. Troopers with the assistance of the BCI and Niagara County Sheriff’s Office located Wilson who had kidnapped a female victim and sexually abused her while holding her at gunpoint. Wilson was arrested and transported to SP Lockport for processing. Wilson was transported to Niagara County Jail for CAP arraignment. Sources: NEW YORK STATE POLICE

Kathy Hochul, has announced the deployment of new shark-monitoring drones to several local beach communities across Long Island and New York City. This comes as a further step towards ensuring beachgoers' safety at State beaches, following previously taken actions by the State. In addition, she revealed that the New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation, alongside the Department of Environmental Conservation, have increased their surveillance efforts in response to several shark sightings over the Fourth of July holiday. This is in line with new shark safety protocols established earlier this year. Governor Hochul expressed her commitment to keeping New Yorkers safe this summer. As such, new tools and strategies have been developed and implemented to monitor marine wildlife and safeguard the health and safety of beachgoers. The newly deployed drones will significantly enhance the shark monitoring capabilities of local governments across Long Island and New York City, ultimately ensuring that local beaches remain safe for everyone. As part of the State Parks' efforts, new drones will be distributed to municipalities located along the Long Island coastline and New York City. This move is intended to boost the localities' shark monitoring efforts since most of them do not have drone surveillance capabilities. Furthermore, the State Parks will provide funding to train local personnel to operate the drones. Before the summer season began, the State Parks held a pre-season meeting with beachfront municipalities and agencies to discuss the latest information on shark activity, as well as coordinate beachfront notifications. The Department of Environmental Conservation has also released guidelines aimed at reducing the risk of negative interactions with sharks. In the event of shark sightings or interactions with swimmers, swimming is suspended, and all bathers are cleared from the water until at least one hour after the last sighting. The Long Island Coastal Awareness Group is also notified to take appropriate action in their respective jurisdictions. To ensure beachgoers' safety, State Park lifeguards, Park Police, and staff are on high alert and continuously patrol the waters for shark activity. Governor Hochul has announced enhanced shark monitoring measures for Long Island State Park beaches, including additional drones, Yamaha WaveRunners, and staff training. The Department of Environmental Conservation advises beachgoers to follow shark safety guidelines such as avoiding areas with seals and murky water, swimming in groups, and staying close to shore. While it is impossible to eliminate risk altogether, modifying behavior can minimize potential interactions with sharks and reduce overall risk. Overall, these measures aim to ensure that New Yorkers can enjoy the beautiful beaches safely. https://www.governor.ny.gov/

sources: https://ocgov.net

On July 4th, 2023 Utica Police and Utica Fire units were dispatched to Route 12 N near the Oriskany St exit regarding a motorcycle accident involving serious physical injury. Upon arrival, they located the involved individual, identified as Justin Knaperek age 43 of Clinton, NY, in the roadway. Sadly, Knaperek, was pronounced deceased immediately. With the assistance of the New York State Department of Transportation, Route 12 was shut down for several hours while the Utica Police Department Accident Reconstruction Team investigated the accident. Preliminarily it appears that Knaperek was traveling northbound on Route 12 when a dog entered the roadway contributing to Knaperek and the motorcycle striking a side barrier resulting in the crash. The investigation is still early, and any other contributing factors will be determined through the reconstruction and witness interviews. We offer our sincerest thoughts and prayers to Knaperek’s family during this difficult time. We would also like to acknowledge the passing motorists that stopped in an effort to render aid to Knaperek. Source: City of Utica, NY Police Department

New Rule Raises Maximum Age at Time of Application From 29 to 34 Further Goal of Doubling the Number of Graduates from the New York State Police Academy Starting in 2024 Governor Kathy Hochul today announced that she has approved a request from the New York State Police to raise the maximum age to apply to become a New York State Trooper from 29 to 34. The requirement change reinforces Governor Hochul's commitment to expanding public safety initiatives across New York. In addition to raising the age requirement, earlier this year, the Governor announced more than $66 million in the budget to fund additional New York State Police academy classes and increase the number of New York State Troopers dedicated to addressing serious crime. "Public safety is my top priority, and the State Police are the tip of the spear in our efforts to combat gun violence and keep New Yorkers safe," Governor Hochul said. "By raising the maximum age of new recruits, we are widening the pool of people who can help us with this incredibly important work. After doubling the number of graduating classes from the New York State Police Academy starting next year, this new rule will help the State recruit more Troopers and protect the people of New York." Acting New York State Police Superintendent Steven A. Nigrelli said, "This change will allow us to recruit the most diverse and skilled group of candidates possible. There are many qualified candidates from the military or other careers who decide that they want to transition to the State Police, but because of the previous age requirement, some were not eligible. These are individuals that have a wealth of knowledge and experience to bring to the job. The New York State Police has a proud tradition of excellence. By raising the age, we are ensuring that we have the best and most qualified candidates possible to carry on that legacy, and serve and protect the people of New York." The Governor's plan provides for two additional classes each year allowing for four unprecedented classes annually. This will accelerate the rebuilding of the force and expand the number of troopers dedicated to addressing violent crimes and quality of life issues such as removing illegal guns from the streets and combating the flow of drugs within some of the state's most vulnerable neighborhoods. State Police has redesigned its recruitment program to reach more potential female and minority candidates. This includes meeting with leaders in communities that are underrepresented within law enforcement, with the goal of building positive long-term relationships. The State Police has also taken the 30X30 pledge and is committed to increasing its percentage of female recruits to 30 percent by 2030. The agency has recruitment teams in each troop to network at events and within neighborhoods. Candidates can learn about becoming a New York State Trooper and sign up to take the exam at joinstatepolice.ny.gov. The next Trooper Entrance exam will be held simultaneously with the application process from July 2023 through September 2023 and will be administered online at authorized testing centers to make the exam more accessible. Individuals will be able to apply beginning July 1, and can schedule a time to take the exam as early as July 10. The State Police has contracted with Pearson VUE, which will offer the Trooper Entrance Exam at 54 testing centers in New York State, more than 280 locations in the United States, and 100 military locations around the world. Candidates can choose where and when they take the exam. The online testing process makes it more convenient and accessible for anyone interested in becoming a trooper. A study guide for the exam is available here. MINIMUM EXAM QUALIFICATIONS: US Citizen 20-34 years of age (The maximum age may be extended one year for each year of full-time active military duty - up to a maximum of 7 years) High school diploma or equivalents Additional requirements can be found here. SALARY & BENEFITS: Starting salary: $59,612 After one year: $84,331 Full benefits & retirement Contact the Governor's Press Office Contact us by phone: Albany: (518) 474-8418 New York City: (212) 681-4640 Contact us by email: Press.Office@exec.ny.gov

Legislation (S.6467-A/A.5821A) Establishes That Lifeguards at Children’s Camps May Be a Minimum of 15 Years of Age if Directly Supervised Governor Kathy Hochul today announced she signed key legislation to address the minimum age of lifeguards at children’s camps. Legislation (S.6467-A/A.5821A) will require lifeguards for children’s camps to be at least 17 years of age except that up to 50 percent of the required number of lifeguards on duty may be at least 15 years of age if they are under the supervision of a camp aquatics director. Lifeguards required for wilderness swimming must be at least 18 years of age. “New Yorkers deserve the opportunity to safely enjoy our world-class beaches and camps across the state,” Governor Hochul said. “This legislation will help address the lifeguard shortage, while ensuring that our children and fellow New Yorkers are supervised and safe in the waters." To address the shortage of lifeguards in New York State, legislation (S.6467-A/A.5821A) allows for the expansion of individuals who can become lifeguards at overnight, summer day, and travelling summer camps for children. New York State Health Commissioner Dr. James McDonald said, “Parents in New York deserve the peace of mind to know their children are safe and well supervised when attending summer camp, especially when they’re swimming and participating in water activities. Lifeguards in New York are well trained and equipped to respond and save lives in the event of an emergency. This legislation will keep swimmers at camp safe while creating opportunities for more young people who are interested in becoming a lifeguard.” New York State Parks Commissioner Erik Kulleseid said, "Lifeguards are vital to ensuring safe and enjoyable experiences at a diverse range of swimming facilities in New York. I applaud Governor Hochul and the state Legislature for approving this measure to expand the pool of lifeguards across the state. As a former Harriman State Park lifeguard, I encourage young New Yorkers to pursue lifeguarding as a way to earn money, gain valuable job experience, and serve the public." State Senator James Skoufis said, "New York is facing a major lifeguard shortage, including at our summer camps. Our bill to lower the minimum age of lifeguards at camps from 16 to 15 will help us expand the pool of eligible water safety pros, help more teens secure meaningful summer work, and keep New York's campers happily swimming. I applaud the Governor for signing this important measure." Assemblymember Charles D. Lavine said, "Amidst an ongoing shortage of lifeguard applicants this new law, which I sponsored in the Assembly, will help keep children at summer camps in the State of New York safe. Any concerns people might have about the age being lowered are assuaged by the requirement that these lifeguards would still have to pass all of the same requirements and obtain the same certifications as older lifeguards." Sources: https://www.governor.ny.gov/

ESPN today announced its ESPN+ Major League Baseball game schedule for July 2023. The slate begins with the Chicago White Sox hosting the Oakland Athletics on Sunday, July 2, at 4 p.m. ET. ESPN+ July schedule highlights: Multiple appearances by the World Series Champion Houston Astros, plus the Texas Rangers, Atlanta Braves, and Chicago Cubs; The surging Cincinnati Reds and rising phenomenon Elly De La Cruz in action on Thursday, July 20; The Los Angeles Angels and Shohei Ohtani, who leads the league in home runs (29), close the month of games on Monday, July 31; Classic rivalries take the stage including the Chicago Cubs and St. Louis Cardinals, and the Subway Series between the New York Mets and the New York Yankees; Six days of doubleheaders, which include the Los Angeles Dodgers hosting the Pittsburgh Pirates, the Toronto Blue Jays hosting the San Diego Padres, the Cincinnati Reds hosting the San Francisco Giants, the Baltimore Orioles visiting the Philadelphia Phillies, and the New York Mets hosting the Washington Nationals. MLB on ESPN+ July Schedule* DateTime (ET)Game Sun, July 24 p.m.Chicago White Sox vs. Oakland Athletics Mon, July 32 p.m.Chicago Cubs vs. Milwaukee Brewers Tues, July 41 p.m.St. Louis Cardinals vs. Miami Marlins Wed, July 52 p.m.Colorado Rockies vs. Houston Astros Thurs, July 61 p.m.Oakland Athletics vs. Detroit Tigers Thurs, July 610 p.m.Pittsburgh Pirates vs. Los Angeles Dodgers Fri, July 79:30 p.m.New York Mets vs. San Diego Padres Sat, July 81 p.m.Chicago Cubs vs. New York Yankees Sun, July 94 p.m.Pittsburgh Pirates vs. Arizona Diamondbacks Fri, July 147 p.m.Chicago White Sox vs. Atlanta Braves Sun, July 164 p.m.Minnesota Twins vs. Oakland Athletics Wed, July 1912:30 p.m.Cleveland Guardians vs. Pittsburgh Pirates Wed, July 197 p.m.San Diego Padres vs. Toronto Blue Jays Thurs, July 2012:30 p.m.San Francisco Giants vs. Cincinnati Reds Thurs, July 208 p.m.St. Louis Cardinals vs. Chicago Cubs Fri, July 218 p.m.Atlanta Braves vs. Milwaukee Brewers Sun, July 234 p.m.Houston Astros vs. Oakland Athletics Mon, July 246:30 p.m.Baltimore Orioles vs. Philadelphia Phillies Mon, July 247:30 p.m.Seattle Mariners vs. Minnesota Twins Tues, July 2510 p.m.Toronto Blue Jays vs. Los Angeles Dodgers Wed, July 267 p.m.New York Mets vs. New York Yankees Thurs, July 277 p.m.Washington Nationals vs. New York Mets Thurs, July 278 p.m.Cleveland Guardians vs. Chicago White Sox Fri, July 289:30 p.m.Texas Rangers vs. San Diego Padres Sun, July 304 p.m.Texas Rangers vs. San Diego Padres Mon, July 316:30 p.m.Philadelphia Phillies vs. Miami Marlins Mon, July 317 p.m.Los Angeles Angels vs. Atlanta Braves *Local blackout restrictions apply to all games All ESPN MLB games and programming are also available to stream on the ESPN App. -30- Writer: Katie Hughes Martin