On December 16, 2025, New York’s state Gaming Commission gave final approval for three new casinos in New York City – two in Queens and one in the Bronx. The projects, which include Metropolitan Park near Citi Field, Resorts World NYC, and Bally’s in the Bronx, are expected to generate about $7 billion in gaming taxes by 2036.

In Ithaca, Dairy Queen is set to return with a new Grill & Chill location on Elmira Road. The new restaurant is moving into the former Tim Horton’s and Cold Stone building next to KFC with renovations nearly complete and job postings already available.

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

A New York State Court of Appeals decision reopened a legal challenge by Seneca Meadows Inc. against Seneca Falls’ Local Law 3 under SEQRA. The case has been sent back to the Appellate Division as the landfill approaches a permit deadline of December 31.

In Auburn, the drive-thru coffee chain 7 Brew opened a new location at 153 Grant Avenue. The opening, which included a ribbon-cutting ceremony and a United Way event, took place on December 17.

Wayne County Treasurer Patrick Schmitt announced his resignation effective January 4 after 13 years with the county. He will be moving to a private sector role with Clifton Larson Allen’s State and Local Government Accounting Division, with Deputy Treasurer Megan Fralick assuming responsibility until the seat is filled on the November 2026 ballot.

North Rose-Wolcott residents were scheduled to vote on a $30 million plan to upgrade schools and build a new transportation facility. State aid is set to cover about $23 million of the project, with the remainder coming from capital reserves. The upgrades include a new bus garage, science wing renovations, improved cooling systems, and classroom updates.

Health officials responded to a suspected case of tuberculosis at the former Broome County Jail when a former inmate was hospitalized. Tests are ongoing, and officials noted that active TB has not been confirmed while standard precautions remain in place.

Outside the Broome County Jail, dozens gathered to support 37-year-old Guan Heng, a Uyghur rights activist housed in the facility. Heng, who fled China seeking asylum after exposing alleged abuse of the Uyghur minority, received backing from supporters who traveled from New York City and Ithaca.

President Donald Trump prepared an executive order to reclassify marijuana from Schedule 1 to Schedule 3. The proposed change could acknowledge medical use and allow tax deductions for licensed cannabis businesses. Experts stated that additional congressional action would be necessary for issues such as banking access.

In Central New York, a former state Senate candidate, Caleb Slater, was under investigation for allegedly purchasing fake campaign donations by using gift cards, cash, and even contributions from homeless individuals. The allegations concern his 2024 campaign and claims of false donor listings.

Governor Kathy Hochul signed a bill to assist towns affected by local college closures. The new law enables the state to provide technical help with workforce planning, property reuse, and economic development and was supported by Sen. Rachel May and passed unanimously with revisions requested by the governor.

The Canandaigua City Council approved its 2026 budget after a roll-call vote, with outgoing Mayor Bob Palumbo casting the only “no” vote. The meeting included several appointments, budget-related resolutions, and approvals concerning engineering and chemical contracts.

Binghamton lawmakers introduced an ordinance to limit the city’s cooperation with federal immigration enforcement. The proposal would prevent the use of city resources for ICE operations and restrict city workers from inquiring about immigration status or denying services based on citizenship except as required by law.

In Geneva, two stalled development projects – including a Lake’s Edge hotel and a townhome project – faced foreclosure over unpaid taxes. One project owed more than $63,000 and was facing liens. City officials expected one tax bill might be paid before the May 2026 deadline, while another developer planned to settle taxes and explore potential buyers.

In the sports community, Ormonde “Ormie” E. King, a long-time local figure in Auburn known for his coaching, sports columns, and preservation of local history, died on December 13 at the age of 87.

Two New York lawmakers proposed a bid for a statewide Winter Olympics, suggesting that events be split between New York City and Lake Placid. They pointed to existing venues as a sustainable, lower-cost option for a bid that would come at least a decade from now.

The Cayuga County Sheriff’s Office issued a warning to residents about scam calls. The calls, made by individuals claiming to be law enforcement officers, have been demanding money or gift card payments. Officials advised residents to disconnect suspicious calls and use the sheriff’s non-emergency line for verification.

In Penn Yan, police arrested Russell J. Aliff, 37, following an investigation into a theft on December 6. Officers found him in possession of stolen items at a local business. Aliff 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.