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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

On July 20, 2026, at approximately 11:45 a.m., New York State Police responded to the Pompey Rod & Gun Club, located at 2035 Swift Road in the town of Pompey, for a report of an unresponsive individual. The deceased, a 52-year-old male from Cazenovia, was found with a gunshot wound after another club member heard a single gunshot and went to investigate before calling 911. The Onondaga County Medical Examiner’s Office responded to the scene and transported the deceased for a post-mortem examination. The investigation remains ongoing. At this time, there are no signs of foul play.

According to Oneida County Sheriff Robert Maciol, on July 21st, 2026, at approximately 03:07 P.M., Deputies responded to a two-car motor vehicle accident that occurred at the intersection of State Route 365 and Greenway New London Rd in the City of Rome. On scene, Deputies determined that Karen Simons, of Verona, NY, was traveling South on Greenway New London Rd when she stopped at the stop sign at the intersection with State Route 365, and then proceeded through the intersection, in an attempt to turn onto State Route 365 in an eastern direction. C. Vanderhoof, of Verona, was traveling west on State Route 365 when Simons entered the intersection. Simon's Jeep Compass then struck Vanderhoof's Toyota Avalon head-on, causing damage to the front ends of both vehicles. All parties were evaluated on scene by medical personnel for non-life-threatening injuries. Simons was transported to Rome Memorial Hospital for further evaluation by AmCare Ambulance. Simons was issued traffic citations, returnable to Rome City Court at a later date and time. The Oneida County Sheriff's Office was assisted on scene by Rome City Fire Department, AmCare Ambulance, and Mike's Towing.

The New York State Police are warning businesses that store used cooking oil on their property to remain vigilant following multiple recent attempts to steal used cooking oil. Troopers have responded to several incidents involving suspects siphoning used cooking oil from restaurant storage tanks. Investigators believe additional businesses may have been targeted but were never reported. Used cooking oil has become a valuable commodity because it can be recycled into products such as renewable fuels, making it an attractive target for thieves. On July 9, 2026, at approximately 7:30 a.m., Troopers from SP Deposit were dispatched to the River Run Restaurant on Faulkner Road in the town of Sanford for a report of a larceny. A male was observed in a commercial Ford Van with a green hose connected to the restaurant’s used cooking containers, pumping oil into the van. When Troopers arrived, the restaurant owner had blocked in the van from leaving the property. Troopers arrested Donaldo Jones Morel Castro, 30, of Bronx, New York, charging him with attempted Petit Larceny, a misdemeanor. Morel Castro was issued an appearance ticket returnable to the Sanford Town Court on July 31, 2026, and released. July 18, 2026, at approximately 9:30 a.m., Troopers from SP Endwell were dispatched to Lupo’s Char-Pit on East Main Street in the town of Union for a report of two men attempting to steal used cooking oil. An employee confronted the two men who were in a rental box truck bearing New Jersey license plates. The men left the area but were stopped by Troopers and members of the Broome County Sheriff’s Department on Interstate 81 in the town of Binghamton. During the investigation, Troopers located large tanks containing used cooking oil inside the box truck, along with industrial hoses and a gas-powered water pump. Both men identified as Barry D. Charles, 26 of Newark, New Jersey and Nasir A. Bey, 29 of Newark, New Jersey. They were each charged with: Attempted Petit Larceny, a misdemeanor Criminal Possession of Stolen Property in the 5th degree, a misdemeanor Possession of Burglar Tools, a misdemeanor Conspiracy in the 6th degree, a misdemeanor Both men were issued appearance tickets to the Union Town Court on August 4, 2026, and released. Businesses that maintain cooking oil storage containers are advised to take steps to reduce the risk of theft, including: Installing cameras that monitor the storage areas Keeping storage tanks in well-lit areas whenever possible Using locks on containers Reporting suspicious vehicle or individuals on the property immediately by calling 911 Sources: https://troopers.ny.gov/news/nysp-warns-businesses-about-thefts-used-cooking-oil

At a morning press conference held at the Oneida County Sheriff's Office, Sheriff Robert Maciol introduced the newest member of the Sheriff's Office K9 Unit. K9 "Billie", an English Black Lab, is an Electronics Storage Detection canine assigned to the Sheriff's Office Road Patrol Division. Billie is trained to find cell phones, tablets, laptops, USB drives, SD cards, and other electronic storage devices. The chemical that Billie is trained to locate is Triphenylphosphine Oxide (TPPO), a substance that is part of all electronic devices. Billie is also currently in training to track lost or missing people. Billie was originally born in the Netherlands and purchased from Vohneliche Kennels in Denver, Indiana. Billie was purchased with funding graciously provided by WB Payne Co. Inc. of Boonville, New York and Tolpa's Auto Parts in Remsen, New York. Both businesses were presented with plaques in recognition of their significant contributions that made Billie's arrival possible. Billie is named after both Bill Tolpa, owner of Tolpa's Auto Parts and two William Payne's that are & were part of the WB Payne Family. Billie recently celebrated her 1st birthday this past July 4th and she is assigned to Deputy Thomas R. Bronson of the Sheriff's Office Road Patrol Division. So far in her career, Billie has taken part in several search warrants, including one with our Sheriff's Office along with ones in both Oswego County and Otsego County- in which Billie found three cell phones that contained images that put a sexual predator back in jail that was on parole for a previous offense.