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25-06-2025
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What to know about Mohawk Valley cleanup, power restoration, closed roads after tornado
The EF-1 tornado that created a 2½-mile path of destruction, including the death of three people in Clark Mills in the early hours of June 22, also led to power outages across the Mohawk Valley, disrupted the final days of school, and more questions from local officials about New York's part in financial assistance for storm cleanup. Kayleigh Bisson's twin daughters were killed in the tornado, and Shelly Johnson, 50, died in a separate home in Clark Mills when a tree crashed through the roof of her house. New York State Electric & Gas and National Grid reported power outages for thousands of residents following the storms − the tornado touched down at 3:58 in Oneida County, and officials continue to monitor closed roads and will now help residents with cleanup and financial assistance. Around-the-clock repair efforts included more than 2,500 power workers with crews coming from as far away as Louisiana, Oklahoma and New Brunswick in Canada. Updates: Cleanup across Mohawk Valley begins after fatal Clark Mills tornado Original report: Deadly tornado sweeps through Oneida County. Fundraiser created for family New York State Electric & Gas reported that about 17,000 customers lost power across its service area June 22 with about 697 outages remaining in Oneida County, one in Herkimer County and 40 in Madison County as of 2:15 p.m. on June 23. Customers who are still without power can log into their online accounts to see the time the company estimates their power will go back on, and the Observer-Dispatch data page also tracks power outages. They can also sign up for outage alerts to receive texts, emails or phone calls with restoration updates. OFF THE GRID: United States Power Outage Map National Grid is projecting that all its customers in Herkimer, Madison and Oneida counties will have their service restored by 11:30 p.m. June 24, although the company is warning that small pockets with power outages in hard-to-reach areas might not get their power back until June 25. The storm on June 22 caused outages for 104,300 National Grid customers, but the company has restored power to more than 90,700 of them by 5 p.m. June 23, according to National Grid. The hardest hit areas were Oneida, Herkimer, Madison, Lewis, Oswego and Jefferson counties. Around-the-clock repair efforts included more than 2,500 workers with crews coming from as far away as Louisiana, Oklahoma and New Brunswick in Canada. 'This storm created an extraordinary amount of damage to our communities and to our electric system,' said Zach Butcher, National Grid's director of electric maintenance in a statement. 'We sustained more than 120 broken poles, which is a labor-intensive repair for our crews, in addition to downed wires, damaged transformers and uprooted trees on our power lines. 'Cleanup, reconstruction and restoration has been and will continue to be time-consuming, and our crews will remain out there in full force to bring service back to customers as quickly and safely as possible.' Repairing one utility pole can take a crew as long as six hours, National Grid spokesman Jared Paventi said. The tornado and storms also caused a lot of damage to lines in remote, off-road areas, which means moving trucks and other equipment off road and all the hazards that go along with that, he said. And the heavy tree damage has also meant that crews have to remove debris before they can begin their repairs, Paventi said. Adding to all that is the extreme heat in which those crews are working National Grid will distribute dry ice, frozen ice and bottled water on June 24 at these locations: Clark Mills Volunteer Fire Department, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. 207 N. James St., Rome (next to Veterans Memorial Park), 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. VFW Post 600, 3835 Canal Road, Canastota, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Bring along a cooler or paper grocery bags to transport the dry ice. National Grid will supply information on how to handle it safely. As of mid-afternoon on June 23, six Oneida County roads remained closed due to downed power lines: West South Street in Westmoreland between Fairway Drive and Deans Highway. Dix Road in Westmoreland between Lawrence Street and Bartlett Road. Lawrence Street in Rome and Westmoreland between Dewey Road and Dix Road. Buck Hill Road in Western and Steube between State Route 46 and North Steuben Road. Taberg-Florence Road in Florence and Camden between Skinner Settlement Road and Wolcott Hill Road. McConnellsville Road in Vienna between Kimball Road and Teelin Road. Starting June 24, the Oneida County Health Department, Department of Mental Health and Department of Family and Community Services will offer assistance and support services from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily throughout the week at the Kirkland Senior Center at 2 Mill Street in Clark Mills and at Connected Community Schools at 207 N. James St. in Rome. Help is also available at the Oneida County Office Building in Utica. Oneida County is partnering with the Community Foundation of Herkimer & Oneida Counties to establish a recovery fund for storm victims just like it did after last year's tornado in Rome. Residents may apply for up to $5,000 to cover insurance deductibles, electrical hook ups, home security measures, relocation costs, moderate repairs, tree removal and Dumpster rentals. Details on how to apply will be released within the next few days. Anyone who needs help because of the storms can call the Oneida County Help Line, which will be open from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. from June 24 through the end of the week, at 315-798-5502. The National Weather Service currently notifies residents of weather-related emergencies through the New York Alerts notification system. But Oneida County Executive Anthony Picente Jr. said he heard from people who didn't get a notification about the storms. He said he got a notification on one of his two phones — during the middle of the storm. And he never got an alert about the tornado in Rome last year, Picente said. He talked to people who did receive the alert, but with only a few seconds to respond to the warning, he said. The county has looked into the warning system and intends to talk more to the National Weather Service and learn more about what can be done, he said. 'I'm not certain whether or not, in that circumstance, we'd be able to give people enough time,' he said. 'I think the bigger question,' Picente added, 'is why are we getting so many tornadoes when we didn't for 20 years. (This story has been updated with additional photos.) This article originally appeared on Observer-Dispatch: Clark Mills NY tornado cleanup, power outages, closed roads, help
Yahoo
23-06-2025
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Rome mayor charged with second-degree harassment, due in court July 16
EDITOR'S NOTE: This story was edited to include a statement from Rome Mayor Jeffrey Lanigan. Rome Mayor Jeffrey Lanigan has been charged with second-degree harassment after an alleged incident early June with former Rome Mayor James Brown. The charges were confirmed through the New York State Unified Court System. According to New York State Penal Code, second-degree harassment, a violation, entails when another person does one of the following: Strikes, shoves, kicks or otherwise subjects such other person to physical contact, or attempts to threaten to do the same. Follow a person in or about a public place or places Engage in a course of conduct or repeatedly commits acts which alarm or seriously annoy such other person and which serve no legitimate purpose. Oneida County Sheriff's Office call logs list a call going out at around 7:56 p.m. on June 3 to Teugega Country Club on Keeler Road in Rome for harassment. Neighborhood Revitalization: Cornhill Empowerment Center opens, first step of many to revitalization Court Proceedings: Community court in Rome sees early results, mayor says Arrests: Lee man arrested after shooting at parked car In a June 4 statement, Lanigan said there was a verbal dispute that occurred that did not turn physical. Lanigan further stated Brown was intoxicated. Brown declined comment to the Observer-Dispatch. In a statement, Lanigan confirmed the summons. "[On June 19], I was issued a summons for the non-criminal violation of harassment in the second degree stemming from the recent incident on June 3," he wrote. "I look forward to the opportunity to address this matter." I want to sincerely thank the many people who have reached out with their support. It means a great deal to me and my family. Herkimer County District Attorney Jeffrey Carpenter was named special prosecutor in the case. He did not return calls for comment. Lanigan is to go before Judge Timothy Kirwan in Rome City Court on July 16 at 11 a.m. This article originally appeared on Observer-Dispatch: Rome mayor charged with second-degree harassment
Yahoo
10-03-2025
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Growing fruit trees in Central New York can be challenging, but rewarding. What to know
Growing tree fruit is rewarding. However, it's not easy; tree fruits need to be managed correctly to prevent insect and disease issues, making them more challenging to grow. Cornell Cooperative Extension of Oneida County's Horticultural Hotline receives many calls about tree fruit problems. The changing nature of our weather has become a major issue. Winters have been unpredictable, and abnormal temperatures coupled with late spring hard frosts have impacted fruit trees. So, to have success, it's all about the right variety choice. It's the perfect time to think about adding and growing fruit trees. Consider these suggestions: Hardiness and bloom time. Be sure your choices are hardy enough for our central NY weather. Look for lower zoned varieties to handle harsh winters and those that can withstand fluctuating weather conditions. Early blooming varieties have a better chance of avoiding late spring frosts; fruit trees will not produce fruit once buds or flowers are damaged. Having varieties that bloom at different times can also help you work around the weather. To ensure fruit, have a second tree for a pollinator, one that blooms at the same time as the variety of fruit you choose. Pest resistance. Problems are common; in fact, trees will probably need insecticide and/or fungicide sprays timed during the growing season to stay on top of issues. However, minimize problems by selecting varieties that are naturally more resistant. The right site. Check your garden's microclimate to be sure trees are planted in the right spot. Southern locations, for example, offer extra warmth. A windbreak will protect trees from harsh winds as well as stopping fungal spores from being blown onto the fruit trees from nearby landscapes. Add organic matter such as compost as you plant your trees. Soil testing will ensure you add the necessary nutrients as well as ensuring your pH is right. Consult staff at your garden center and buy a good fruit book. Consider the "Cornell Guide to Growing Fruit at Home;" it's free and can be downloaded by visiting Cornell Cooperative Extension Oneida County answers home and garden questions which can be emailed to homeandgarden@ or call 315-736-3394, press 1 and ext. 333. Leave your question, name and phone number. Questions are answered weekdays, 8am to 4pm. Also, visit our website at or phone 315-736-3394, press 1 and then ext.100. This article originally appeared on Observer-Dispatch: Garden column: Tips on growing fruit trees in Central New York
Yahoo
05-03-2025
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4 more suspended in death of Mid-State inmate, Gov. Hochul calls early reports "disturbing"
An additional four people were placed on administrative leave in connection with the death of Messiah Nantwi, a 22-year-old individual incarcerated at Mid-State Correctional Facility. Gov. Kathy Hochul issued the order Tuesday afternoon, saying in a statement that while the investigation into what happened is ongoing, early reports '...point to extremely disturbing conduct.' 'I am committed to accountability for all involved,' she wrote in a statement. 'The people of New York extend our deepest condolences to Mr. Nantwi's family and loved ones.' She thanked Commissioner Daniel Martuscello and the Department of Corrections and Community Supervision leadership for swiftly responding to this incident, but she said it was a reminder of the need for real, systemic change within the correctional system. It's been almost 90 days since the death of Robert Brooks at Marcy Correctional Facility and the release of bodycam footage that showed several corrections officers brutally beating Brooks while his hands were cuffed behind his back. Shortly after the footage came to life, Hochul mandated the use of body-worn cameras, expanded whistleblower hotlines, and brought in outside experts for a systemwide culture review. Since Robert Brooks's death, several corrections officers have been arraigned and charged with murder or manslaughter. However, the three nurses that were suspended were not charged by the special prosecutor's office. Issues have only been compounded by the wildcat strike by corrections officers across the state as negotiations continue. There was a massive gathering outside of Marcy with corrections officers, both current and retired, demanding change and an end to 16 to 24-hour shifts. These strikes are happening across New York State and without union approval. Hit and Run: 1 dead after being hit by a car in Verona, police investigating Attempted Larceny: 2 men arrested after trying to steal 200 feet of Verizon Communication copper wiring 'As I've said for weeks, my top priority is the safety and well-being of all New Yorkers involved in the correctional system, from civilian employees to National Guard to Correction Officers to incarcerated individuals,' Hochul said in a statement. 'The ongoing illegal work stoppage is a significant safety risk, and I once again reiterate the need for correction officers to return to work. My administration remains committed to working in good faith with correction officers to improve safety and working conditions within the correctional system, but we will not compromise on the need for responsible, law-abiding behavior by every single person who walks into a DOCCS facility.' The Observer-Dispatch reached out to the New York State Correctional Officers & Police Benevolent Association for comment and any details of the death of Nantwi. "This is an ongoing investigation and no details have been shared with the NYSCOPBA as of yet," NYSCOPBA officials said. The Observer-Dispatch also reached out to the DOCCS with similar questions, however they did respond in time for publication. This article originally appeared on Observer-Dispatch: Gov. Hochul calls early reports of Mid-State inmate's death disturbing
Yahoo
02-03-2025
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Dramatic Security Camera Footage of New York Mall Shooting Shows Terrified Bystanders Running for Cover amid Gunfire
Police in New York are investigating after a shooter opened fire in a mall — and the incident was caught on video. On Saturday, March 1, state police in New Hartford, N.Y. — located east of Syracuse — said that multiple shots were fired at the Sangertown Square Mall at around 12:45 p.m. local time, per the Observer-Dispatch and WKTV. In a statement, state police said that law enforcement officials, including the New Hartford Police Department, are still searching for the suspect. Security camera footage of the incident obtained by TMZ shows the moment that shots rang out and people inside a hair salon at the mall quickly reacted. In the video, people in the salon can be seen looking around as the first shots rang out, unsure of what was happening. Then they all began to run for cover. One woman can even be heard calling out for her child, and the pair were reunited before running out of the salon, hugging each other. Others seemingly fled to the back of the store, attempting to hide from the possible shooter. "At this time, one male victim has been identified but is uncooperative with investigators. Out of caution, the mall is being evacuated," police wrote in their statement, adding, "This is not an active shooter situation." According to the Observer-Dispatch, the injured man was taken to Wynn Hospital for treatment. New Hartford Town Supervisor Paul Miscione also told the outlet that authorities do not yet know the motive behind the shooting. "We don't know why this happened yet, but law enforcement are currently investigating and checking every camera," Miscione said. He also told the outlet that the shooter was not yet in custody, but that this was not a random incident. New Hartford police did not immediately respond to PEOPLE's request for further information. Want to keep up with the latest crime coverage? Sign up for for breaking crime news, ongoing trial coverage and details of intriguing unsolved cases. In a Facebook post, Miscione advised local community members to stay away from the mall as police are still investigating. "First and foremost, our thoughts and prayers are with the victim and his families. We are deeply saddened by this senseless act of violence," Miscione wrote in the post. "The safety and security of our residents remain a top priority, and we are committed to ensuring that those responsible for this act are held accountable." Miscione also encouraged anyone with information about the shooting to come forward to authorities. "In the coming days, we will continue to provide updates as we receive more information," he added. "For now, I ask everyone to respect the ongoing investigation and the privacy of those affected by this tragedy." The investigation is still ongoing, state police added in their statement. Read the original article on People
