On December 16, New York officials announced a range of events across the state. In New York City, the state Gaming Commission approved three new casinos – Metropolitan Park near Citi Field and Resorts World in Queens, along with Bally’s in the Bronx. The projects, which won out over strong competitors, are projected to generate about $7 billion in gaming taxes by 2036.

Elsewhere in New York, Dairy Queen is returning to Ithaca. The new Grill & Chill location on Elmira Road will open in the building that previously housed Tim Horton’s and Cold Stone, with renovations nearly complete and job applications already available.

In Yates County, a town court judge resigned amid allegations of bias and misconduct. Todd C. Whitford stepped down and agreed not to serve as a judge again after the New York State Commission on Judicial Conduct brought forward charges regarding his courtroom behavior and legal competence.

A New York State Court of Appeals decision revived a legal challenge against Seneca Falls’ landfill closure law. The ruling determined Seneca Meadows Inc. has standing to challenge Local Law 3 under SEQRA, sending the case back to the Appellate Division as the landfill faces a Dec. 31 permit deadline.

In Auburn, the drive-thru coffee chain 7 Brew opened a new location at 153 Grant Avenue, with a ribbon-cutting ceremony scheduled for Dec. 17. The opening ceremony will feature a United Way event followed by a promotional “swag day.”

Wayne County Treasurer Patrick Schmitt announced his resignation effective Jan. 4 after 13 years in office. He is set to join Clifton Larson Allen’s State and Local Government Accounting Division and will be succeeded by Deputy Treasurer Megan Fralick. A special election for the seat is planned for November 2026.

North Rose-Wolcott residents went to the polls to decide on a $30 million school upgrade plan that includes building a new bus garage, renovating a science wing, upgrading cooling systems, and modernizing classrooms. Approximately $23 million of the project cost will come from state aid, with the remaining funds drawn from capital reserves.

Health officials probed a suspected tuberculosis case at the former Broome County Jail after a former inmate was hospitalized. Officials stressed that testing has not confirmed active TB while standard precautions are maintained.

A rally took place outside the Broome County Jail in support of Guan Heng, a 37-year-old Uyghur rights activist detained at the facility. Protesters from New York City and Ithaca gathered, with organizers noting that Heng had fled China after exposing alleged abuses against the Uyghur minority.

President Donald Trump reportedly prepared an executive order to reclassify marijuana from Schedule 1 to Schedule 3. The move, intended to recognize medical use and offer tax deductions for licensed cannabis businesses, was noted along with expert comments that further congressional action would be needed for broader industry changes.

In Central New York, former state Senate candidate Caleb Slater is under investigation for allegedly using gift cards and cash to manufacture fake campaign donations. His 2024 campaign is being scrutinized by the state attorney general over claims of false donors and paid signatures to secure public matching funds.

Governor Kathy Hochul signed a bill to assist communities impacted by local college closures. The new law will help towns with workforce planning, property reuse, and economic development, following unanimous support in both legislative chambers and revisions requested by the governor.

In Canandaigua, city officials approved the 2026 budget during a meeting that included multiple appointments, resolutions related to budgetary concerns, and approvals for engineering and chemical contracts. Outgoing Mayor Bob Palumbo was the only dissenting vote during the roll-call.

Lawmakers in Binghamton introduced an ordinance to cut city cooperation with federal immigration enforcement. The proposed measure would block the use of city resources for ICE operations and restrict city workers from inquiring about immigration status or denying services based on citizenship unless required by law.

Two undeveloped projects in Geneva, including the Lake’s Edge hotel and townhome development, face potential foreclosure over unpaid taxes exceeding $63,000. City officials expect one tax bill might be paid before the May 2026 deadline, while another developer is in talks with potential buyers.

In Auburn, longtime community figure Ormonde “Ormie” E. King died on Dec. 13 at age 87. King was known locally for his service in sports, coaching, column writing, and for keeping the town’s history alive.

Additionally, two New York lawmakers proposed a statewide bid for the Winter Olympics by splitting events between New York City and Lake Placid. The plan highlights existing venues as a sustainable and lower-cost option, although any bid would be at least a decade away due to current host city contracts through 2034.

The Cayuga County Sheriff’s Office issued a warning about scam calls from individuals posing as law enforcement officials. They advised residents to disconnect suspicious calls and utilize the sheriff’s non-emergency line for verification.

Finally, police in Penn Yan arrested 37-year-old Russell J. Aliff after a theft reported on Dec. 6. Officers found him in possession of stolen items, and he was charged with two counts of petit larceny before being 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.