New developments across New York and Central New York have come to light today.

In New York City, the state Gaming Commission approved three new casinos, with two set to open in Queens and one in the Bronx. The projects—Metropolitan Park near Citi Field, Resorts World NYC, and Bally’s in the Bronx—are expected to generate around $7 billion in gaming taxes by 2036.

Ithaca will soon see the return of Dairy Queen. The chain is reopening a Grill & Chill outlet on Elmira Road, taking over the former Tim Horton’s and Cold Stone building next to a KFC. Renovations are nearly complete and job postings are available.

A town court judge in Yates County, Todd C. Whitford, resigned following allegations of bias, courtroom misconduct, and lack of legal competence. Whitford agreed never to serve as a judge again after facing charges from the New York State Commission on Judicial Conduct.

Meanwhile, a New York State Court of Appeals decision has revived a legal challenge related to Seneca Falls’ landfill closure law. Seneca Meadows Inc. has standing under SEQRA to challenge the town’s Local Law 3 as the landfill faces a permit deadline on December 31.

In Auburn, 7 Brew is set to open its drive-thru-only coffee location at 153 Grant Avenue, with a ribbon-cutting ceremony scheduled for December 17 that will include a United Way event and a promotional “swag day.”

Wayne County Treasurer Patrick Schmitt will step down on January 4 after 13 years in the position to join Clifton Larson Allen’s State and Local Government Accounting Division. Deputy Treasurer Megan Fralick will temporarily assume the role, with the seat to be filled in November 2026.

North Rose-Wolcott residents will vote on a $30 million upgrade plan for local schools and a new transportation facility. The project will include a new bus garage, renovations to a science wing, improved cooling systems, and classroom updates. Approximately $23 million of the plan is covered by state aid.

At Broome County Jail, health officials are investigating a case where a former inmate was hospitalized with suspected tuberculosis. Tests are ongoing, and although active TB has not been confirmed, the jail is following standard safety protocols.

Outside the Broome County Jail, dozens of protesters rallied in support of a 37-year-old Uyghur activist, Guan Heng, who is detained there. Heng, who fled China after raising concerns about alleged abuses against the Uyghur minority, received backing from demonstrators from New York City and Ithaca.

President Donald Trump prepared an executive order that would reclassify marijuana from Schedule 1 to Schedule 3. The move is intended to acknowledge medical use and provide tax benefits for licensed cannabis businesses, although experts note that further measures would be required to address issues such as banking access.

In Central New York, a former state Senate candidate, Caleb Slater, faces an investigation by the state attorney general. Slater is accused of using gift cards and cash to purchase fake campaign donations, a practice intended to collect public matching funds.

Governor Kathy Hochul signed a bill aimed at assisting communities that have been impacted by local college closures. The new law allows the state to provide technical support for workforce planning, property reuse, and economic development projects.

The Canandaigua City Council approved the city’s 2026 budget in a roll-call vote. The meeting also addressed multiple appointments and resolutions, including those related to engineering and contracts.

Binghamton city lawmakers introduced an ordinance to reduce cooperation with federal immigration enforcement by blocking the use of city resources for ICE operations. The proposal also seeks to limit inquiries about immigration status and prevent denial of services based on citizenship, except as required by law.

In Geneva, two stalled development projects face possible foreclosure due to unpaid taxes. One project, the Lake’s Edge hotel and townhome development, owes over $63,000 and is subject to liens and foreclosure actions, although one tax bill may be addressed before the May 2026 deadline.

Local sports and community history in Auburn suffered a loss with the death of Ormonde “Ormie” E. King on December 13 at 87. King was known for his long service in local sports, coaching, and preserving Auburn history.

Two New York lawmakers have proposed a bid to bring the Winter Olympics back to the state. Their plan suggests splitting events between New York City and Lake Placid, citing existing venues as a cost-effective option, although any bid would be at least a decade away.

In Cayuga County, the Sheriff’s Office issued a warning about scam calls. Residents are advised to disconnect suspicious calls and use the sheriff’s non-emergency line to verify any inquiries, following several reports of scammers posing as law enforcement.

Finally, in Penn Yan, police arrested 37-year-old Russell J. Aliff in connection with a theft reported on December 6. Officers recovered the stolen items from him, and he was charged with two counts of petit larceny and released on an appearance ticket.

Binghamton, NY

Binghamton University Hosts Labor Day Weekend Events

Binghamton University in Binghamton, New York, says those staying in Bing for Labor Day weekend can check out events on and around campus, with details at bit.ly/420A9O8.

Binghamton shed fire at 53 Mill Street under control

At about 2:59 p.m., Binghamton Fire Department crews responded to a backyard shed fire at 53 Mill Street, upgraded to a full alarm, and the fire was quickly brought under control with no injuries reported; the cause is under investigation.

Little Venice marks 79th anniversary, aims for 80th in 2026.

BINGHAMTON, N.Y. — Devin Binghamton of Binghamton Econ reports that Little Venice Restaurant is celebrating 79 years and will reach its 80th anniversary in 2026.

Binghamton Family Welcomes Newborn Patriot Ahead of School Year

Binghamton, N.Y. — Michael Murphy, son of EMS teacher Conor Murphy, wore a Binghamton B onesie as he hyped his dad and the BCSD family ahead of the new school year.

Downtown Binghamton Sidewalks Underway, Arts District Nears Completion

New sidewalks are loading in downtown Binghamton as construction on the Downtown Arts District continues, with an update urging visitors to support local businesses such as Old Barn Market, Garage, Lost Dog Café & Lounge, and Old Barn Market & Gluten Free Bakery, and saying the district will be completed in a few short months.

Binghamton Schools issue Labor Day greeting

Binghamton Schools in Binghamton, N.Y., posted a Labor Day greeting inviting the Binghamton family to Thursday's return and included the hashtag #BPatriotProud.

Binghamton University honors faculty, staff, student workers on Labor Day

Binghamton University in Binghamton, New York, marked Labor Day by recognizing its faculty, staff and student workers who keep the campus thriving.

BCPL offers digital access to The New York Times

Broome County Public Library in Binghamton, New York, says it provides digital access to The New York Times both inside and outside the library, including access to the Learning Network, with no library card required to access the service (a library card or guest pass is needed to use a library computer).

Binghamton Schools report staff, retirees reunite

Binghamton Schools said current staff and retirees reunited on the same day, emphasizing that they’re still part of the Binghamton Family and posting the hashtag #BPatriotProud.

Broome County issues school bus safety reminder as school resumes

BINGHAMTON, N.Y. — As school resumes, Broome County Emergency Services urged drivers to allow extra travel time and never pass a school bus with the stop arm extended and the red lights flashing, attributing the message to Broome County Emergency Services and Emergency Management.