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Tag: U.S.-Iran Conflict

MYBROOME NOW – Sunday, July 26, 2026

MYBROOME NOW
Sunday, July 26, 2026
From the MyBroome News Team

WORLD NOW by NewsXR

U.S.-Iran Strike Pause Holds as Waterway Crisis Deepens

The United States has temporarily paused overnight airstrikes against Iran for the first time in nearly two weeks, but the wider conflict remains dangerously unstable across the Middle East.

The pause followed the arrival of an Omani mediation delegation in Tehran and reported backchannel efforts aimed at creating space for an interim ceasefire. President Donald Trump has ordered U.S. strikes held for a second consecutive night, but American officials continue warning that a larger military escalation remains possible if diplomacy fails.

Iran has also temporarily paused retaliatory operations against regional U.S. allies. However, Iranian military officials warned that any renewed American strikes could expand the war across the wider region.

The Strait of Hormuz remains one of the central flashpoints. The U.S. military continues enforcing a naval blockade around Iranian ports and coastal areas, while Iranian naval forces are restricting unauthorized movement through the waterway. The dispute has become a direct threat to global energy movement, with Hormuz and the Red Sea now forming a double chokepoint crisis.

That second front is building around Yemen and Saudi Arabia. Iran-backed Houthi forces have declared a maritime blockade and launched missile attacks targeting Saudi shipping and coastal energy infrastructure. Saudi Arabia has responded with strikes against Houthi targets, including the port city of Hodeidah.

Regional proxy activity remains volatile across Jordan, Bahrain, Kuwait and Iraq, where U.S.-linked military positions have faced drone and missile threats. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s expected Washington visit adds another major escalation risk, with Israeli officials warning that a lasting U.S.-Iran diplomatic agreement may be unlikely.

Global Headlines

Deadly violence in the West Bank is escalating after a confrontation that left four Palestinians and two Israelis dead. Retaliatory settler attacks and preparations for wider military operations are adding to the pressure.

In Europe, extreme heat and fast-moving wildfires have forced more than 330,000 residents and tourists to evacuate threatened areas near Bordeaux in France and west of Madrid in Spain. Spain has declared a national emergency, while Germany and other neighboring countries are sending firefighting aircraft and support crews.

On the Ukraine front, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy warned of a possible major Russian offensive within 48 hours, while reports suggest North Korean troop reinforcements could be preparing to support Russia. Romanian jets also intercepted unidentified drones breaching Romanian airspace.

At the International Criminal Court, member states voted to remove chief prosecutor Karim Khan following sexual misconduct allegations, which he denies.

LOCAL NEWS NOW

State Immigration Mandate Puts Broome County Sheriff in Constitutional Fight

A major state and federal fight over immigration enforcement has now become one of the most important local government stories facing Broome County.

Governor Kathy Hochul, Attorney General Letitia James and the state’s Office of Immigrant Trust are moving to force local enforcement entities with 287(g) ICE agreements to terminate those partnerships by August 25. Broome County and Steuben County are among the localities identified.

The state says the newly enacted Local Cops, Local Crimes Act bars the use of municipal resources and correctional facilities for federal civil immigration assistance. Agencies that refuse to unwind their agreements could face lawsuits, civil enforcement actions, injunctions and possible funding consequences.

Several sheriffs have pushed back, arguing the mandate is state overreach and interferes with local law-enforcement discretion. The federal government is also challenging New York’s position in U.S. District Court in Albany.

The federal argument centers on the Supremacy Clause. The U.S. Department of Justice argues that immigration enforcement is a federal responsibility and that New York cannot punish or restrict local agencies that participate in congressionally authorized federal programs.

New York’s argument centers on the Tenth Amendment and the anti-commandeering doctrine. The state says it cannot be forced to use local taxpayer resources, police agencies or county jails for federal civil immigration enforcement, and that the law does not block ordinary criminal cooperation with federal authorities.

Ultimately, federal judges will decide whether New York is simply refusing to participate in civil immigration enforcement or whether it has crossed into unconstitutional obstruction of federal authority. Because the dispute raises major constitutional questions involving federal supremacy, state power, local sheriff authority and immigration enforcement, it may ultimately end up before the U.S. Supreme Court.

SEE OUR SUNDAY NewsXR Editorial that focuses on this issue.

Storm Recovery, Surveillance Debate and Housing Pressure Continue Across the Region

Severe storm recovery remains active across the Southern Tier after the National Weather Service confirmed an EF-1 tornado with winds near 90 to 95 mph in the town of Greene and damage stretching across parts of Broome, Chenango and Delaware counties.

The system uprooted trees, scattered heavy debris and added to a week of storm damage across the region. High winds and microbursts also knocked out power to more than 3,300 NYSEG customers across Tioga, eastern Broome and southern Chenango counties. Utility companies deployed more than 400 field personnel, and most customers were restored within 48 hours.

The agricultural impact is also growing. Governor Hochul announced a USDA Secretarial Disaster Designation affecting fruit growers across 32 New York counties, including the Southern Tier. Extreme freezing and spring storms caused more than $30 million in crop losses, opening the door to low-interest emergency federal loans for local farms.

In Binghamton, the city’s Flock Safety camera debate continues. The Municipal and Public Affairs Committee hosted a public meeting with Flock Safety representatives as City Council reviews legislation that could cancel the city’s automated license plate reader contract. Supporters argue the cameras help law enforcement solve crimes. Critics remain concerned about privacy, data retention and surveillance expansion. The next formal public comment session is expected at the Wednesday, July 29 City Council meeting.

Housing activism also remains a major local issue following the deadly June 22 fire at the Knights Inn in Endwell. Public tension over emergency housing placements has continued, and the 24-day Hawley Street protest encampment has officially ended. Community organizers and city officials remain sharply divided over long-term solutions for the area’s unhoused residents.

Registered nurses at Guthrie Lourdes Hospital in Binghamton have voted by more than two-to-one to unionize with 1199SEIU United Healthcare Workers East. The vote marks a major labor development inside one of the region’s key healthcare institutions.

PUBLIC SAFETY NOW

Attempted Murder Arraignment in Doubleday Street Stabbing

Dominic L. Rought, 23, of Binghamton, was arraigned in Binghamton City Court after a stabbing on Doubleday Street.

Authorities allege Rought stabbed a 44-year-old man four times during a verbal dispute, causing injuries to the victim’s neck, arm and chest. The victim remains hospitalized in stable condition.

Rought is charged with Attempted Murder in the Second Degree. He was remanded to the Broome County Correctional Facility without bail pending further court proceedings.

Felony Drug Arrest in Kirkwood

Rayner A. Casilla, 30, of Perth Amboy, New Jersey, was charged with three felony counts of Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance with Intent to Sell following a Broome County Sheriff’s Office traffic stop investigation in the Town of Kirkwood.

Casilla was held pending central arraignment.

Lisle Drug and Weapons Raid

Kyle S. Dixon, 38, of the Town of Lisle, was arrested after the Broome County Special Investigations Unit Task Force executed a narcotics search warrant at his residence at 17 Watts Road.

Authorities reported recovering approximately 84.4 grams of methamphetamine, prescription pills, scales, packaging materials and a high-capacity rifle magazine.

Dixon faces multiple felony charges, including Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance in the Second Degree, Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance in the Third Degree, four counts of Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance in the Fifth Degree and Criminal Possession of a Weapon in the Third Degree. He also faces misdemeanor drug-paraphernalia charges.

Drug Possession Case in Endicott Area

Cheyenne of Endicott was charged with two counts of Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance in the Seventh Degree after deputies reported finding narcotics during the execution of an unrelated warrant in the Town of Union.

Legislative Session Protest Arrests

Two protesters were charged after a disruption at a Broome County legislative session tied to housing protests.

The charges include Obstructing Governmental Administration and Disorderly Conduct. Under NewsXR’s naming policy for misdemeanor and quality-of-life cases, full names are not being used here unless additional public-interest factors require it.

DWI Case in Town of Chenango

Andres of Newark, New Jersey, was charged with Driving While Intoxicated and operating a vehicle with a blood alcohol content above .08 percent following a traffic stop in the Town of Chenango.

Court Actions of Interest

Robert Scott, a 60-year-old Binghamton resident, was indicted by a federal grand jury for possession with intent to distribute fentanyl and crack cocaine. If convicted, he faces 5 to 40 years in federal prison.

Thomas Murray, 24, of Binghamton, was indicted in federal court for distribution of child pornography. The charge carries a mandatory minimum sentence of five years in federal prison if convicted.

In a major federal court action handled in New York, captured former Venezuelan leader Nicolás Maduro entered a not guilty plea to international drug trafficking and weapons charges.

Public Safety and Transparency Updates

Binghamton Police are increasing patrols around city parks, residential areas, hospital zones and school zones as part of a summer speeding crackdown. The effort includes extra traffic details, bike and walking patrols, and portable speed trailers.

The Broome County Office of Emergency Services has launched the Ready Broome mobile app. The app is designed to send emergency notifications, severe weather warnings, power outage information and disaster-preparedness resources directly to residents’ phones.

The Broome County Sheriff’s Office has also deployed a new automated communication platform through Versaterm CommunityConnect. Residents who call 911 or the non-emergency dispatch line from a mobile phone may receive a text message with an official incident number, along with updates on case status, deputy response times, delays and investigation milestones.

State Police are investigating a break-in at the Otsego Electric Substation on Kinney Road in Hartwick, where intruders reportedly stole valuable copper wiring.

State environmental agencies are warning that adult Spotted Lanternflies are active across New York orchards and vineyards. Residents are being asked to kill the insects immediately and report locations to the New York State Department of Agriculture and Markets to help prevent wider agricultural damage.

All persons are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

Editor’s Note: NewsXR generally releases only a first name and city or town for misdemeanor cases, violations and quality-of-life offenses. We reserve the right to weigh additional factors on a case-by-case basis, including public safety, repeat conduct, official charging level, community impact and the public’s right to know.

WEATHER NOW from NewsXR

The Southern Tier is starting Sunday with mostly cloudy skies and temperatures around 68 degrees, with isolated showers and scattered thunderstorms expected to develop later this afternoon.

The region is moving from a beautiful weekend pattern into a more humid and unsettled stretch. Monday brings scattered afternoon thunderstorms, while Tuesday looks like the most active weather day of the week with heavy rain and thunderstorms likely.

Monday: Humid with afternoon thunderstorms, 82 / 65, 60 percent rain chance.
Tuesday: Heavy rain and active thunderstorms, 72 / 64, 90 percent rain chance.
Wednesday: Cloudy with persistent morning showers, 71 / 62, 70 percent rain chance.
Thursday: Partly cloudy with a spotty shower, 75 / 61, 50 percent rain chance.
Friday: Clearing skies and pleasant sunshine, 81 / 62, 20 percent rain chance.

Residents should keep an eye on the Monday and Tuesday forecast, especially in areas still recovering from recent wind damage, tornado impacts and power disruptions.

Weather 100 Years Ago Today

Exactly 100 years ago today, on July 26, 1926, the Southern Tier experienced a beautiful, dry summer day. Binghamton station data showed a high near 83, a cool morning low near 53 and 0.00 inches of rainfall.

That crisp, clear weather offered farmers and residents ideal summer field conditions, standing in sharp contrast to today’s humid air and incoming thunderstorm track.

SPORTS NOW from NewsXR

The Southern Tier sports scene is busy with professional baseball, collegiate league championship races, professional golf preparation and high school football workouts.

The Binghamton Rumble Ponies are in a mid-summer Eastern League homestand at Mirabito Stadium, working to climb in the Northeast Division while top Mets prospects continue drawing attention from scouts and local fans.

Up the road in the Perfect Game Collegiate Baseball League, the Oneonta Outlaws are wrapping up their regular-season campaign at historic Damaschke Field while battling for East Division seeding.

Preparations are underway at En-Joie Golf Club in Endicott for the annual DICK’S Open. The PGA Tour Champions event remains one of the Southern Tier’s largest sports attractions, with ticketing, volunteer registration and tournament-week operations moving forward.

Several elite golfers from Broome, Tioga and Chemung county clubs have also qualified for the New York State Men’s Amateur Championship, giving the Southern Tier representation against top amateur golfers from across the state.

Section IV football programs are now in summer preparation mode, with voluntary workouts and passing academies underway. Tioga Central, Chenango Forks and Maine-Endwell are among the programs drawing early attention. Mandatory fall practices across Section IV are scheduled to begin Monday, August 17.

Tonight’s local sports schedule includes the Portland Sea Dogs against the Binghamton Rumble Ponies at Mirabito Stadium, with first pitch at 6:35 PM. The Oneonta Outlaws also host a key division matchup at Damaschke Field at 7 PM.

EVENTS NOW

151st Broome County Fair Opens Tuesday in Whitney Point

The 151st Broome County Fair officially kicks off Tuesday, July 28, at the Whitney Point Fairgrounds, anchoring one of the region’s biggest summer traditions.

The fair runs through Sunday, August 2, with classic midway rides, livestock competitions, 4-H showcases, grandstand events, demolition derby action and local food vendors.

The fair remains one of Broome County’s longest-running agricultural traditions and provides an important annual marketplace for Southern Tier farms, youth agricultural programs and local vendors.

Standard single-day adult tickets are listed at $8.50, with full season passes available for $33.50 through official Etix outlets.

This Week’s Events

Today, the Binghamton Farmers Market at Recreation Park runs from 11 AM to 4 PM, featuring local food trucks, acoustic music and regional bakers, including Chicky’s Sourdough Eats.

Also today, the Portland Sea Dogs face the Binghamton Rumble Ponies at Mirabito Stadium at 6:35 PM.

Tuesday, July 28, Broome Bands Together returns to Otsiningo Park at 6 PM with Katie Scott with Persuasion. Families are encouraged to bring cash or canned goods to support the CHOW food bank.

Wednesday, July 29, the Triple Cities Runners Club holds Track Meet #4 at Vestal High School’s Dick Hoover Stadium. Open registration begins at 5:30 PM, with a $5 non-member fee.

Friday, July 31, Tioga Downs Casino Resort hosts Rooster and the Roadhouse Horns on the Sideshow Stage at 9 PM. Virgil Cain performs a no-cover solo multi-instrument set at Celebrations On Park in Binghamton at 6 PM. The Octagon Inn in Glen Aubrey also hosts its Wu-Twang After-The-Fair Party on Friday and Saturday nights.

Now Playing

Local theaters across Greater Binghamton and the Southern Tier are anchored this weekend by The Odyssey, Moana, Minions & Monsters and Toy Story 5.

Regal Binghamton, AMC Vestal Town Square 9 and Tioga Theater in Owego all have weekend showtimes, with additional options including Hadestown: The Musical, Young Washington, Motor City, The Invite and Evil Dead Burn.

COMMUNITY NOW

Southern Tier Community Center Receives $2.8 Million NY SWIMS Grant

The Southern Tier Community Center Aquatics Facility in Broome County has been awarded $2.8 million through the New York Statewide Investment in More Swimming, or NY SWIMS, initiative.

Governor Kathy Hochul announced nearly $21 million in statewide NY SWIMS funding, with the Southern Tier Community Center securing one of the major regional awards.

The facility, operated by the Children’s Home of Wyoming Conference, serves thousands of local families, youth and seniors across Greater Binghamton.

The funding will be used to modernize the indoor aquatics facility, improve water safety education, expand low-cost youth swim programming and strengthen year-round recreational options.

The investment comes during an intensely hot summer and after structural closures elsewhere in the county have underscored the need for safe, accessible public aquatics spaces. For families, seniors and young people, this grant helps protect a community hub where residents can stay active, cool off, gather and learn life-saving swimming skills regardless of income.

MyBroome™ Then – 100 Years Ago Today in Broome County

Storm Recovery Across Binghamton and Johnson City

One hundred years ago today, Binghamton and Johnson City were recovering from a violent wind and rainstorm that tore through the region.

Reports in The Binghamton Press described at least two people seriously injured, numerous trees uprooted, and telephone, telegraph and trolley wires downed. Binghamton was temporarily cut off from outside communication.

Along Conklin Road, high winds leveled a barn and collapsed a bungalow. Farmers also reported thousands of dollars in summer crop damage.

Susquehanna River Bathing Suit Debate

Binghamton Chief of Police Hunt launched an investigation after south-bank campers complained about men and boys swimming in the Susquehanna River without proper bathing attire.

The complaints focused on swimmers between the Tompkins Street and Lackawanna Railroad bridges, where residents said the public river activity was becoming hard to ignore.

Prohibition Raids Continue

Local officers and federal agents continued cracking down on alcohol shipments during Prohibition.

In one major Laurel Avenue seizure, authorities confiscated a truck hauling ten half-barrels of real beer and charged the driver with prohibition violations.

Remembering the Binghamton Clothing Company Fire

Front-page notices in The Binghamton Press marked the 13th anniversary of the Binghamton Clothing Company fire on Wall Street.

The 1913 tragedy killed 31 people and permanently reshaped local conversations around manufacturing safety, workplace conditions and fire protection.

Modern Amenities Arrive on Murray Street

Real estate ads for newly constructed Murray Street apartment complexes drew attention by highlighting a major modern feature for 1926: two complete bathrooms.

One bathroom was advertised for family use, while the other was reserved for household servants.

FOR OUR YOUNGER NEWS CONSUMERS SEE THE COVER PHOTO NEWS FLASH.

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07/26/2026
MYBROOME NOW – Saturday, July 25, 2026

MYBROOME NOW
Saturday, July 25, 2026
From the MyBroome News Team

WORLD NOW by NewsXR

U.S. Airstrikes Pause as Iran Conflict Widens to Saudi-Houthi Front

U.S. airstrikes against Iranian military infrastructure have paused for the first time in two weeks, marking a tense intermission in the escalating Middle East conflict.

President Donald Trump indicated that backchannel negotiations are underway and said Tehran may be getting more serious about talks. However, he also warned that a much larger American attack remains on the table if diplomacy fails.

The pause follows 13 consecutive nights of American strikes against Iranian military targets. U.S. Central Command did not announce new airstrikes over the weekend, and Iranian officials reported a quiet night with no new U.S. strike casualties.

The military situation remains extremely volatile. The Strait of Hormuz naval standoff continues, with U.S. forces reportedly disabling a commercial tanker that attempted to run the American blockade of Iranian ports. Iran’s Revolutionary Guard also claimed it intercepted four vessels attempting to move through unapproved routes.

The conflict has also widened into a Saudi-Houthi front. Iran-backed Houthi rebels reportedly targeted Saudi shipping in the Red Sea, including a Saudi-flagged oil tanker. Saudi Arabia responded with retaliatory airstrikes on the Houthi-controlled port city of Hodeidah, followed by additional Houthi missile launches toward Saudi coastal military installations.

Regional proxy attacks remain a major concern, with Iran-backed networks reportedly targeting U.S. positions in Kuwait, Jordan and Bahrain. In a surprise development, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy also said Ukraine used long-range weapons to strike ships carrying Iranian military cargo across the Caspian Sea to Russia.

Global energy markets remain unsettled. Oil prices briefly moved above $100 per barrel before easing back toward the low $90s, while gasoline prices in the United States continue facing upward pressure.

Global Headlines

The Trump administration has imposed sweeping new tariffs ranging from 10 percent to 12.5 percent on imports from 60 countries, including major trade partners in Europe, Canada, Mexico, China and Japan. The administration cited anti-forced-labor enforcement, while affected governments are preparing retaliation and legal challenges.

Brazil has denied visa requests for two Trump administration officials, saying the planned visit was an attempt to interfere with Brazil’s upcoming presidential election.

In Europe, massive wildfires have forced more than 250,000 people to evacuate tourist areas and cities across France and Spain. Spain has declared a national emergency as fast-moving fires merge near Madrid.

In southwest China, a landslide has killed at least 11 people, with more than 50 others still missing.

India’s education minister has resigned following weeks of youth-led protests over civil service exam leaks. Student organizers agreed to stand down after talks with the government.

In Italy, violent protests erupted in Bologna after the death of a Moroccan immigrant business owner in police custody.

French lawmakers have approved a sweeping ban preventing children under 15 from accessing social media platforms, creating one of the strongest youth digital restrictions in Europe.

LOCAL NEWS NOW

Storm Damage and Housing Protests Continue to Grip the Southern Tier

Severe weather disruptions and growing civic pressure over housing remain two of the biggest local stories across Broome County and the broader Southern Tier.

The National Weather Service confirmed an EF-1 tornado touched down in Sanford, carving a 15-mile path east into Delaware County with peak winds near 95 mph. That follows another confirmed tornado earlier in the week that impacted parts of Broome and Chenango counties.

A later round of heavy thunderstorm activity and microbursts caused additional power disruptions across Tioga, Chenango and eastern Broome counties, affecting more than 3,300 NYSEG customers. Owego, Harpursville and surrounding areas saw emergency crews respond to downed trees, outages and localized damage. Most services have since been restored.

At the same time, housing protests continue following the deadly arson fire at the Knights Inn in Endwell. Demonstrators connected to the Hawley Street Encampment and Citizen Action of New York disrupted a Broome County Legislative meeting while protesting local emergency housing systems.

Multiple protesters were removed and arrested after chanting escalated inside the chamber. Activists are demanding the elimination of motel placements for unhoused residents, arguing that vulnerable people should not be placed in unsafe or substandard temporary housing.

Amid the crisis, the Broome County Land Bank announced completion of its first ARPA-funded residential home overhaul on Binghamton’s South Side. The low-to-moderate-income property is listed at $139,900.

PUBLIC SAFETY NOW

Attempted Murder Arrest in Doubleday Street Stabbing

Dominic L. Rought, 23, of Binghamton, was arrested near Eldridge Street after a stabbing on Doubleday Street.

Authorities allege Rought stabbed a 44-year-old man four times following a verbal argument. The victim was reportedly stabbed in the chest, neck, back and armpit.

Rought is charged with Attempted Murder in the Second Degree, a Class A felony. He was remanded to the Broome County Correctional Facility following arraignment in Binghamton City Court.

Felony Drug Arrest in Kirkwood

Rayner A. Casilla, 30, of Perth Amboy, New Jersey, was arrested by the Broome County Sheriff’s Office during a traffic stop investigation in the Town of Kirkwood.

Casilla faces three counts of Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance with Intent to Sell, all Class D felonies. He was held pending central arraignment.

Legislature Protest Arrests Continue Through Court

Salka of Binghamton was taken into custody during the Broome County Legislative Session disruption tied to housing protests.

She faces misdemeanor-level charges including Obstructing Governmental Administration, Resisting Arrest and Disorderly Conduct.

Brian of Binghamton was also detained during the same protest-related incident. Both were processed by the Broome County Sheriff’s Office and released on appearance tickets.

Retail Larceny Investigation in Town of Union

Haley of the Town of Union was detained by deputies following a retail larceny investigation at a commercial business in the Town of Union.

She faces misdemeanor-level charges including Resisting Arrest, Obstructing Governmental Administration and Petit Larceny. She was released on an appearance ticket under New York State bail statutes.

Drug Possession Case in Endicott Area

Cheyenne of Endicott was charged with two counts of Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance in the Seventh Degree after deputies reported finding narcotics during the execution of an unrelated warrant in the Town of Union.

She was booked by the Broome County Sheriff’s Office and scheduled for local court proceedings.

Court Actions of Interest

Michael Felkel was sentenced in federal court for a racially motivated civil rights violation against a Black neighbor. He was ordered to complete a mandatory mental health program and still faces additional state-level charges.

Randall Lenyard, 33, was arraigned on homicide and stalking charges following a high-speed pursuit in Wisconsin. Prosecutors allege he shot the mother of his child during a custody exchange.

The murder trial of Jack Upchurch has been delayed. Upchurch is accused in the killing of Good Samaritan Paul Clifford.

All persons are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

Editor’s Note: NewsXR generally releases only a first name and city or town for misdemeanor cases, violations and quality-of-life offenses. We reserve the right to weigh additional factors on a case-by-case basis, including public safety, repeat conduct, official charging level, community impact and the public’s right to know.

Weekly Civil Actions of Public Interest

As taxpayers, these civil cases matter to all of us. Lawsuits involving local government can affect public accountability, public services, municipal budgets, legal exposure and how officials handle housing, jail conditions, code enforcement, policing, prosecution and constitutional rights.

Broome County Jail Salmonella Class Action

A federal civil rights class action has been filed against Broome County and Sheriff Fred Akshar following the salmonella outbreak at the Broome County Correctional Facility.

As taxpayers, this case matters because it involves public money, jail operations, county liability and the broader question of how quickly government responds when an emergency becomes known.

NewsXR also believes important context is being left out of some of the political noise around this case. Once the outbreak became known, the Sheriff’s Office and county health officials described a coordinated emergency response. Public updates reported deep cleaning inside the facility, limits on inmate movement, adjusted meals, expanded medical monitoring, review of possible causes and steps meant to prevent another outbreak.

That matters. A foodborne outbreak in a correctional facility is serious, and any credible claim deserves review. But the response after discovery also matters, and the public should weigh both the allegation and the actions taken once officials knew what they were dealing with.

The lawsuit has also become politically charged. Attorney Ronald Benjamin has publicly called on Governor Kathy Hochul to remove Sheriff Akshar from office, while the Sheriff’s Office has rejected the allegations and called the lawsuit a fabrication.

That political backdrop cannot be ignored. Sheriff Akshar has also been one of the visible New York sheriffs opposing Governor Hochul’s immigration proposals restricting local law-enforcement cooperation with federal immigration authorities. Hochul’s proposal sought to limit the use of local police, jails and law-enforcement technology in civil immigration enforcement, while sheriffs including Akshar argued Albany was interfering with sheriffs’ duties and independence.

NewsXR views that context as relevant. The salmonella case should be judged on facts, evidence and emergency response, not political differences, immigration-policy disputes or the weaponization of executive pressure against an independently elected sheriff.

Knights Inn Arson Liability Lawsuit

A civil lawsuit has been filed against Broome County following the June 22 arson fire at the Knights Inn in Endwell that killed six people.

The case centers on the county’s use of the motel for emergency housing placements through the Department of Social Services. The lawsuit alleges the county breached its duty of care by placing vulnerable residents in a property with a documented history of safety and criminal concerns.

This case goes directly to the center of the region’s housing crisis and raises the question of whether local governments can be held civilly liable for the conditions of private motels they use for emergency shelter.

Isaac Anzaroot Litigation Against Binghamton

Isaac Anzaroot, publicly labeled by Mayor Jared Kraham as one of Binghamton’s most notorious slumlords, remains tied to litigation involving a reported $500 million civil rights retaliation claim against the City of Binghamton.

The city has pursued aggressive code enforcement against neglected properties, including landmark Supreme Court actions. Anzaroot’s claim argues city officials selectively and unlawfully targeted his properties in violation of his constitutional rights.

The case is notable because of both the size of the claim and the broader challenge it presents to Binghamton’s code enforcement strategy.

Kweller et al v. County of Broome et al

A pending federal civil rights lawsuit under 42 U.S.C. Section 1983 names both City of Binghamton and Broome County officials.

The suit names high-ranking figures including Binghamton Police Chief Joseph Zikuski, Police Captain Cory Minor, former District Attorney Michael Korchak and multiple assistant district attorneys.

Section 1983 lawsuits are used to pursue claims involving alleged constitutional-rights violations by government officials acting under color of law. This case is notable because it alleges systemic misconduct involving both policing and prosecution.

WEATHER NOW from NewsXR

The Southern Tier is enjoying clear, mostly sunny skies and beautiful weekend weather, with afternoon temperatures ranging from the upper 70s into the low 80s.

An upper-level trough is expected to move into the region early next week, shifting the pattern from sunny and calm to unsettled and stormy.

Saturday: Sunny, beautiful start to the weekend, 81 to 84 / 60, 0 percent rain chance.
Sunday: Mostly sunny and pleasant, 83 / 63, 0 percent rain chance.
Monday: Turning humid with scattered afternoon thunderstorms, 83 / 65, 60 percent rain chance.
Tuesday: Heavy thunderstorms and rain likely, 75 / 63, 90 percent rain chance.
Wednesday: Lingering rain showers and cooler, 71 / 62, 70 percent rain chance.

Air quality across Broome County and the Southern Tier has greatly improved and is currently rated as fair. Fine particulate matter levels have dropped significantly after earlier wildfire-smoke impacts, making general outdoor weekend activity safe for most residents.

The region spent part of the week under New York State Department of Environmental Conservation air-quality advisories due to wildfire smoke from Canada and Minnesota. The rain and atmospheric mixing expected Monday night and Tuesday should help clear out any remaining low-level haze.

Weather 100 Years Ago Today

Exactly 100 years ago today, on July 25, 1926, Binghamton and the Southern Tier had sunny, pleasant weather with a high of 81 and an overnight low of 59.

Historical weather records show 0.00 inches of rain. Those dry, comfortable conditions helped set the stage for a crowd of about 500 local sports fans who gathered at Binghamton Country Club to watch golf legend Walter Hagen play an exhibition match.

SPORTS NOW from NewsXR

Reigning Champions Return and Summer League Showdowns Continue

Major roster renewals, summer league tournament play and conference realignment are driving an active mid-summer sports cycle across the Southern Tier.

The Binghamton Rumble Ponies fell 8-1 to the Portland Sea Dogs at Mirabito Stadium. Binghamton struck first on a Chris Suero RBI double that scored Jaylen Palmer, but the game unraveled in the fifth inning when defensive mistakes and four straight walks allowed Portland to score six runs without recording a hit. The loss dropped Binghamton to 34-60 overall.

In Little League sectional play, the Horseheads Majors 12U All-Star team saw its summer run end after two close losses, following a dramatic 16-12 opening-round victory over Auburn. The Corning-Painted Post Little League Senior division team captured its sectional title and advanced to the New York State tournament.

The Binghamton Black Bears announced the return of star forward CJ Stubbs for the 2026-27 season. Stubbs enters the new cycle as the reigning FPHL Playoff MVP after helping lead the Black Bears to their third consecutive Commissioner’s Cup championship. During the 2025-26 regular season, he led the team with 39 goals and finished second in scoring with 97 points, including a 20-game point streak.

Stubbs joins a summer signing group that includes Ludovik Tardif, Amir Valiullin, Ivan Kulagin and returning favorite Cheechoo Lathlin.

In high school sports, the Southern Tier Athletic Conference is preparing a major structure change beginning with the 2026-27 academic year. STAC will eliminate its traditional semifinal round and move to a Small School and Large School Championship format. West and Metro winners will advance to the Large School Championship, while Central and East winners will meet for the Small School Championship. Johnson City will move from the Metro division to the Central division as part of the realignment.

The Greater Binghamton Sports Hall of Fame also announced its newest 2026 induction class, highlighted by Pete Sylvester and Brian Jester for their contributions to Southern Tier athletics.

EVENTS NOW

The Southern Tier heads into a sunny summer weekend with outdoor conditions expected to cooperate across most of the region.

Local families, sports fans and community groups should see strong conditions for outdoor events through Sunday before storms return early next week.

More event listings will continue through MyBroome and NewsXR as weekend schedules update.

COMMUNITY NOW

Binghamton Urban Farmers Propose Freight-to-Farm-to-Foyer Housing Concept

A North Side-based group of urban agriculturalists and local engineers is proposing an experimental housing response called The Freight-to-Farm-to-Foyer Project.

The concept would convert decommissioned regional railway shipping containers or freight-style units into modular, insulated tiny homes. The proposal also includes vertical hydroponic food systems built into the side panels of the residences, creating a combined housing and food-production model.

The initiative, attributed to Vines and Valleys Collaborative, is being framed as a grassroots alternative to emergency motel placements. Organizers say the idea is to create durable, mobile and semi-independent housing units that could be placed on underused urban plots.

The proposal comes as Broome County faces growing scrutiny over emergency housing, especially after the fatal Knights Inn arson fire and continuing protests over motel placements.

“Our unhoused neighbors aren’t just looking for four walls; they are looking for stability and purpose,” organizer Maria Vasquez said in the project material provided to MyBroome. “By embedding vertical micro-farms directly into the architecture of these units, residents can manage, cultivate, and sell organic greens right from their living space.”

The project still faces a major zoning hurdle. Binghamton’s current zoning laws do not clearly recognize modular shipping containers as permanent primary dwellings. Organizers are reportedly preparing to seek a special-use variance and hope to expand the concept if municipal approval is granted.

MyBroome supports serious discussion of creative, local and humane housing ideas. The region needs more than complaints. It needs workable alternatives that can be tested, reviewed and refined.

MyBroome™ Then – 100 Years Ago Today in Broome County

Recreation Park Neighbors Battle Carousel Music

Exactly 100 years ago today, on July 25, 1926, Binghamton’s West Side was dealing with a very specific neighborhood complaint: the new merry-go-round at Recreation Park was too loud.

Property owners near Seminary Avenue and Beethoven Street filed a municipal complaint over the carousel’s music. With windows open during hot summer nights, residents said waves of “tin pan music of a decidedly jazzy nature” were rolling into their homes.

Commissioner of Public Works Charles W. Kress publicly vowed to intervene and force operators to lower the organ’s volume.

Walter Hagen Draws a Massive Golf Gallery

Golf legend Walter Hagen, the famed Rochester native and reigning PGA champion, played an exhibition match at Binghamton Country Club.

Nearly 500 local sports fans turned out to watch him play 18 holes, making it one of the region’s premier sporting events of the summer.

The Owego Road Chicken Wreck

One of the strangest local stories came from the Owego highway, where George Stafford of Johnson City crashed a Coca-Cola delivery truck while trying to avoid a chicken crossing the road.

Stafford and passenger Fred L. Goughary were injured when the truck flipped into a ditch, pinning the men underneath and scattering shattered pop bottles across the roadway.

The chicken reportedly survived unharmed.

Willis Sharpe Kilmer Backs the Salvation Army

Binghamton millionaire, industrialist and Binghamton Press publisher Willis Sharpe Kilmer made a major local donation, giving $1,000 to the Salvation Army and helping push the organization’s annual campaign to its $8,000 goal.

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07/25/2026
MYBROOME NOW – Friday, July 24, 2026

MYBROOME NOW
Friday, July 24, 2026
From the MyBroome News Room

TOP STORY

U.S.-Iran Conflict Escalates After 13th Night of American Strikes

The military conflict between the United States and Iran escalated again overnight after a 13th consecutive night of U.S. airstrikes, leaving the region bracing for the possibility of a much wider war.

According to the reporting provided to MyBroome, Thursday night’s American strikes targeted Iranian command centers, drone storage facilities, communications networks, maritime assets and an Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps Navy headquarters in northern Iran near the Caspian Sea.

Iran responded with a multi-pronged wave of retaliation. Iranian military sources reported drone strikes targeting American military bases and installations in Bahrain and Jordan, while Iranian state-run media reported casualties from U.S. missile strikes across oil-rich regions, including Khuzestan. The Revolutionary Guard also claimed strikes against a U.S. base in Kuwait.

The conflict is also spreading beyond the Strait of Hormuz. President Donald Trump threatened Iran and Houthi forces in Yemen with what he described as major military punishment after Houthi forces expanded the maritime crisis by targeting Saudi vessels in the Red Sea.

Diplomatic efforts appear to have collapsed. Iranian and Iraqi officials said Tehran rejected a secret U.S. cease-fire proposal reportedly delivered through Iraqi Prime Minister Ali al-Zaidi. With the White House openly weighing larger combat operations, global energy markets reacted with anxiety as oil prices surged.

OTHER STORIES

Second Tornado in a Week Crosses Broome and Chenango Counties

The National Weather Service in Binghamton has confirmed that another tornado touched down in the Greater Binghamton region within a single week.

The latest storm began as an EF-0 near the Town of Barker in Broome County before intensifying to EF-1 strength as it moved northeast into Chenango County and eventually dissipated near Greene.

The region is still recovering from the more severe July 18 tornado and storm damage. Emergency crews remain active in northern sections of the county, clearing downed trees, restoring localized utilities and helping residents recover from storm impacts.

Binghamton Police Launch Summer Speeding Crackdown Near City Parks

Binghamton Police are increasing traffic enforcement around city parks as families, children and neighborhood foot traffic increase during the summer.

Mayor Jared M. Kraham announced the initiative as part of a broader summer safety push. Police will target speeding around park zones and high-traffic neighborhood areas where pedestrians and children are more likely to be present.

The added enforcement will operate alongside ongoing neighborhood community policing efforts, including increased walking and bicycle patrols near residential, school and hospital zones.

PUBLIC SAFETY / ALERTS / CRIME

Felony Drug and Weapons Arrest in Lisle

Kyle S. Dixon, 38, of Lisle, was arrested by the Broome County Special Investigations Unit Task Force following a raid on Watts Road.

Authorities reported recovering 84.4 grams of methamphetamine, a high-capacity rifle magazine and a digital scale. Dixon faces felony charges including criminal possession of a controlled substance, criminal use of drug paraphernalia and criminal possession of a weapon.

Legislature Disruption Cases Continue

Salka of Binghamton was arrested by the Broome County Sheriff’s Office following a disturbance inside the Broome County legislative chambers during an ongoing public protest.

Brian of Binghamton was detained in the same incident and faces misdemeanor-level charges including obstructing governmental administration and disorderly conduct.

Both cases are expected to continue through Binghamton City Court.

Cooking Oil Theft Suspects Ordered to Appear in Court

Barry of Newark, New Jersey, and Nasir of Newark, New Jersey, were intercepted on Interstate 81 after authorities said they were found in a commercial box truck connected to attempted theft from local restaurant cooking oil storage units.

The two were issued appearance tickets for Town of Union Court on August 4 on theft-related and conspiracy charges.

All persons are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

Editor’s Note: NewsXR generally releases only a first name and city or town for misdemeanor cases, violations and quality-of-life offenses. We reserve the right to weigh additional factors on a case-by-case basis, including public safety, repeat conduct, official charging level, community impact and the public’s right to know.

MISSING YOUTH UPDATE

Ciara Lynn Culpepper Confirmed Located Safe

The Broome County Sheriff’s Office has confirmed to MyBroome that Ciara Lynn Culpepper has been located and is safe.

Ciara, 15, had previously been reported missing from the Fenton area. Because she is a juvenile, MyBroome is not publishing additional details about when, where or how she was located.

This is very welcome news for her loved ones, for those who helped share her information, and for everyone who has been following the case.

Conflicting Information Remains Around Phoenix D. Williams

MyBroome is also continuing to seek clear confirmation on the status of Phoenix D. Williams, a 13-year-old Binghamton youth who had been listed through the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children.

The public NCMEC poster page connected to Phoenix’s case is currently returning a 404 error. In many missing-child cases, that can happen when a case has been resolved and the public poster is removed to protect a juvenile’s privacy.

However, MyBroome has not yet received solid confirmation that Phoenix has been located. The Broome County Sheriff’s Office was not able to clearly confirm his status, and Binghamton Police told MyBroome that Phoenix is still missing, though the officer we spoke with did not sound entirely certain.

Because of that conflict, MyBroome is not reporting Phoenix D. Williams as located at this time.

Until we receive firm confirmation otherwise, the public should continue to be on the lookout for Phoenix and treat him as a missing youth. We sincerely hope the NCMEC page removal means the case has been resolved, but we are waiting for something solid before reporting that as fact.

LOCAL DEVELOPMENTS & TRAFFIC

Storm Cleanup Continues Across the Northern Broome Region

Cleanup continues after the latest confirmed tornado and severe storm system moved from Broome County into Chenango County. Residents should continue watching for downed limbs, utility crews, damaged roadside areas and localized cleanup zones.

Drivers in affected areas should slow down near crews and avoid roads where trees, wires or storm debris remain present.

Park-Zone Traffic Enforcement Begins in Binghamton

Binghamton’s summer speeding crackdown means drivers should expect increased police visibility near city parks and other child-heavy areas. The enforcement push is focused on reducing speeding near public spaces during peak summer activity.

WEATHER AND 5-DAY FORECAST
From the NewsXR Weather Center

The Southern Tier is heading into a beautiful, sunny summer weekend before a more unsettled storm system brings thunderstorms and heavy rain chances early next week.

Current conditions in Binghamton feature fair, sunny skies around 60 degrees, with a calm southeast wind near 4 mph and humidity around 79 percent. Temperatures are expected to climb quickly today, reaching an afternoon high near 81 under clear conditions.

Friday: Sunny, 81 / 52, 10 percent rain chance.
Saturday: Sunny, 82 / 58, 5 percent rain chance.
Sunday: Partly sunny, 81 / 61, 10 percent rain chance.
Monday: Scattered thunderstorms, 81 / 62, 65 percent rain chance.
Tuesday: Heavy thunderstorms, 74 / 65, 75 percent rain chance.

Friday and Saturday will bring ideal summer weather with sunshine, comfortable humidity and light winds. Sunday stays mostly pleasant, but humidity begins building ahead of the next weather front.

Active weather returns Monday afternoon with scattered thunderstorms across the Southern Tier. Tuesday currently looks like the stormiest day of the five-day stretch, with heavy thunderstorms, periods of rain and a cooler high near 74.

Weather 100 Years Ago Today

One hundred years ago today, on July 24, 1926, Broome County was still dealing with the aftermath of a destructive summer wind and rainstorm that struck Binghamton and Johnson City the previous day.

The storm snapped telephone, telegraph and trolley lines, tore down large trees, damaged crops and left Binghamton cut off from outside communication for hours. At least two residents were reported injured, and rural areas suffered serious property damage, including flattened crops and damaged structures along Conklin Road.

The storm came after an oppressive multi-day heat wave that caused multiple cases of heat-related distress, including emergency medical commitments involving three local men who had become severely disoriented from the heat.

REGIONAL SPORTS UPDATE FROM THE NEWSXR SPORTS CENTER

Binghamton-area sports remain anchored by the Rumble Ponies’ mid-season Eastern League push, the approach of the DICK’S Sporting Goods Open, Binghamton University summer training cycles and the Binghamton Black Bears preparing for their next hockey season.

The Binghamton Rumble Ponies continue in-season Double-A Eastern League play at Mirabito Stadium, giving local fans a close look at New York Mets prospects as the summer baseball schedule moves through its second half.

The DICK’S Sporting Goods Open is also moving closer at En-Joie Golf Club in Endicott. The PGA Tour Champions event remains one of the Southern Tier’s largest annual sports attractions and a major economic and community draw.

At Binghamton University, the Bearcats are in their summer preparation window across NCAA Division I programs, including basketball, baseball, softball and the broader America East athletic calendar.

The Binghamton Black Bears remain in their off-season after another strong cycle in the Federal Prospects Hockey League, with the franchise preparing for the next season at Visions Veterans Memorial Arena.

UPCOMING EVENTS

The Southern Tier has a packed summer weekend ahead, with community festivals, live music, charity events, family activities and outdoor concerts lining up under mostly sunny skies.

Friday, July 24

Crest Fest 2026 begins at 6 PM at Hillcrest Park in Binghamton, featuring live music from the Bro Bros, softball, food trucks and fireworks at dark.

Photo City Presents: Live Underground Showcase opens at 6 PM at the Bundy Museum of History and Art on Main Street in Binghamton. The all-ages indie and rock showcase includes For The Better, Reminitions, Long Way Home, In Gloom, Scvrecrvw and Isochronon.

Saturday, July 25

The Broome-Mazing Adventure Race begins at 10 AM at Ross Park Zoo. The United Way of Broome County campaign kickoff event sends teams through zoo-based physical challenges, puzzles and missions.

The Stars & Stripes Family Carnival begins at 11 AM at the Kirkwood Elks Lodge on Route 11. The event includes youth games, a petting zoo, a dunk tank, a pie-eating contest, raffles, emergency vehicle displays and free meals for local military veterans.

Live Ponies & Ranch Day begins at 1 PM at Cones Ice Cream Shop in the Port Crane area, with Twisted Roots Ranch offering children the chance to brush, groom and ride live ponies.

Music in the Glen begins at 4 PM at Glendale Park in Endicott, featuring Front & Main performing soul-rock and classic rock in an outdoor park setting.

Coming Up Later This Summer

The Broome County Fair After-Party is scheduled for July 31 and August 1 at the Octagon Inn in Glen Aubrey.

The 5th Annual Broome County Parks Beach Bash is scheduled for August 15 at Nathaniel Cole Park in Harpursville.

EcoFest 2026 is scheduled for August 16 at Cornell Cooperative Extension of Broome County on Front Street in Binghamton.

Breakfast in the Woods returns Labor Day, September 7, at the Germania Picnic Grounds in Binghamton.

The United in Diversity Festival is scheduled for October 3 at United With Christ Church in Johnson City.

Now Playing

Local theaters, including AMC Vestal Town Square 9 and Regal Binghamton, are carrying a competitive summer slate this weekend.

Now playing locally: The Odyssey, Her Private Hell, Moana, Minions & Monsters and Toy Story 5.

COMMUNITY SPOTLIGHT

Meeting the Need: Christ Episcopal Church Launches “The Great Food Pantry Experiment”

Christ Episcopal Church in downtown Binghamton is rethinking how food security is handled for working families and struggling households in the Southern Tier.

Following the release of the 2026 ALICE Report, which showed increased pressure on households that are employed but still struggling to cover basic needs, the church is launching The Great Food Pantry Experiment.

The idea is direct: if food pantries are open only during narrow daytime windows, many working people, single parents and residents with irregular shifts cannot use them when they need help.

From August 4 through August 28, the pantry will test expanded operating hours from 9:30 AM to 7 PM. Volunteers will track when residents actually use the pantry, then use that information to set more practical, data-driven hours going forward.

Rev. Scott Parnell summed up the mission clearly: “If we are open at the wrong time, we are not really serving anyone.”

The church also plans to make its tracked data public so other congregations, nonprofits and outreach groups can better align their own services with the real needs of Greater Binghamton residents.

MyBroome™ Then – 100 Years Ago Today in Broome County

A Willow Point Brawl Over Bathing Suits

One hundred years ago, Binghamton Police were called to Willow Point along the Susquehanna River after a public dispute over bathing suits spiraled into a free-for-all brawl.

According to the historical account, a group of young men caused outrage by bathing in the river without bathing suits. Nearby families objected, words were exchanged, and the situation quickly turned into a physical fight on the riverbank.

Police were called to restore order.

Also in Broome County 100 years ago, Binghamton and Johnson City were recovering from a destructive wind and rainstorm that knocked out telephone, telegraph and trolley lines, damaged trees and crops, and temporarily cut Binghamton off from outside communication.

The same period also brought a dangerous heat wave that caused serious public-health concerns, while construction was set to begin on the new Lackawanna Freight Depot on Henry Street between Fayette and Liberty streets.

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07/24/2026
MYBROOME NOW – Thursday, July 23, 2026

MYBROOME NOW
Thursday, July 23, 2026
From the MyBroome News Room

TOP STORY

From NewsXR: U.S.-Iran Conflict Reaches 12th Night of Strikes as Shipping Crisis Deepens

The United States and Iran are now locked in an expanding military conflict marked by 12 consecutive nights of U.S. airstrikes, Iranian drone and missile attacks across the Gulf region, and worsening threats to global oil shipping lanes.

U.S. Central Command conducted its 12th straight night of retaliatory strikes against Iranian military targets after attacks on commercial tankers. U.S. strikes have also hit near the Iran-Iraq border, where multiple deaths were reported.

Iran has expanded its retaliation across the region. Tehran has targeted U.S. bases and infrastructure in Kuwait, launched missiles toward Jordan, and triggered air-raid sirens in Bahrain.

U.S. troop casualties have also risen after recent strikes in Jordan and Iraq. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth said the military effort has already cost $37.5 billion, with a request submitted to Congress for nearly $88 billion more.

The Strait of Hormuz and Red Sea remain major flashpoints. Iran and its regional allies, including the Houthis in Yemen, are targeting commercial shipping and oil tankers. Several tankers have made emergency U-turns, disrupting global energy flows and raising continued concerns about fuel prices, shipping costs and broader economic fallout.

President Donald Trump warned that the United States will target key Iranian infrastructure, including power plants and bridges, any time Iranian forces fire on a ship in the Strait of Hormuz.

Secretary of State Marco Rubio said Iran is attempting to signal interest in talks through intermediaries but is not ready to make a deal, meaning military and economic pressure is expected to continue.

OTHER STORIES

Storm Recovery Continues After EF-1 Tornado and Severe Microbursts

The Southern Tier remains in recovery mode after the National Weather Service in Binghamton confirmed a destructive EF-1 tornado tracked more than 15 miles across southern Broome County into Delaware County.

The tornado packed peak winds of 95 mph. Severe microbursts also caused damage across the region, including areas of Cortland County. Emergency response efforts continued this week, including dry ice distribution centers for residents affected by outages.

The storm left downed trees, damaged property, blocked roads and power interruptions across several communities. Cleanup and utility repairs remain active in affected areas.

Binghamton Police Investigating North Street Scene

The Binghamton Police Department has cordoned off a residence near North Street and Edwards Street as part of an active crime scene investigation.

Authorities have not released full details publicly. Residents in the area should follow police instructions and avoid the immediate scene while investigators continue their work.

Storming Crab, Old Vestal Fire Station Coming Down for New Chick-fil-A

Major demolition work is underway in Vestal, where the former Storming Crab restaurant and the old Vestal Fire Station are being torn down to make room for a new Chick-fil-A.

The project is part of a broader redevelopment push in the area. Separately, Binghamton is also moving forward with demolition of six dilapidated buildings as part of a city effort to remove blighted properties and improve neighborhood safety.

Phoenix D. Williams No Longer Listed as Missing

There is very welcome news for Broome County today.

Phoenix D. Williams, the 13-year-old boy previously reported missing from Binghamton, is no longer listed as missing. His active missing-child poster is no longer available through the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children, which indicates the public missing-person alert has been removed.

At this time, MyBroome has not independently verified the circumstances of his recovery, including when, where or how Phoenix was found. Because he is a juvenile, those details may also remain private.

What matters most right now is this: Phoenix is no longer being publicly reported as missing.

That is great news for his loved ones, for those who helped share his information, and for a community that has been watching this case closely.

Hawley Street Protest Camp Officially Disbanded

Organizers have officially dissolved the 24-day-old Hawley Street homeless advocacy encampment following the chaotic Broome County Legislature meeting earlier this week.

Remaining supplies were reportedly distributed safely to unhoused residents. The closure marks the end of the encampment itself, but not the larger housing debate now facing Broome County.

Free Admission Today at Ross Park Zoo

Ross Park Zoo is hosting a “Feasts for the Beasts” community day today, July 23, with free admission and live animal feeding presentations.

The event gives families a no-cost summer outing while highlighting animal care, conservation and one of Binghamton’s most recognizable community institutions.

Taco Bell Lettuce Outbreak Reported Nationally

On the national front, health officials have linked a major foodborne illness outbreak involving severe diarrheal symptoms to contaminated lettuce used at multiple Taco Bell locations.

Consumers should follow health department guidance and monitor updates as investigators continue tracing the source and affected locations.

PUBLIC SAFETY / ALERTS / CRIME

Legislature Disruption Arrests: Salka of Binghamton and Brian of Binghamton were arrested following the disruption at the Broome County Legislature meeting. Both were charged with obstructing governmental administration in the second degree after authorities said public proceedings were disrupted.

Used Cooking Oil Larceny Case: Donaldo Jones Morel Castro of the Bronx was arrested after a restaurant owner physically blocked his getaway vehicle in Sanford. Authorities said he was caught pumping used restaurant cooking oil into a van at the River Run Restaurant and was charged with attempted petit larceny. He was issued an appearance ticket for Sanford Town Court on July 31.

Conklin Traffic Stop Arrest: Brandon of Harpursville was arrested after a targeted traffic stop in the Town of Conklin. He faces a Class A misdemeanor charge of obstructing governmental administration in the second degree, along with multiple traffic violations.

Retail Larceny Case: Haley of the Town of Union was arrested following a retail larceny investigation. Deputies said she resisted arrest and was charged with resisting arrest, obstructing governmental administration and petit larceny.

Court Street Stabbing Arraignments: Jeremiah W. Coqmard Jr. and Christopher D. Ricketts Jr. were arraigned in Binghamton City Court following a violent stabbing investigation on Court Street. Both were remanded without bail to the Broome County Correctional Facility pending grand jury action.

Child-Endangerment Case: An unnamed 66-year-old individual arrested in the Town of Union for acting in a manner injurious to a child under 17 was processed through Broome County Central Arraignment for bail determination.

All persons are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

MISSING PERSON ALERT

Ciara Lynn Culpepper – LOCATED SAFE

Phoenix D. Williams no longer publicly listed as missing at the National Center but cannot confirm his case at this time other than his poster has been removed.

Audrey Salvatore – Missing From Binghamton

Audrey Salvatore, 16, is listed as actively missing. She was last seen in Binghamton on July 6, 2026.

Her case is listed with the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children as case number 2094472.

Izabella Joy White – Missing From the Binghamton Area

Izabella Joy White, 14, is listed as actively missing after last being seen leaving her home in the Binghamton area on May 18, 2026.

She is described as a Caucasian female with auburn hair.

Anyone with information about any missing youth case should contact local law enforcement, the Broome County Sheriff’s Office or the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children at 1-800-THE-LOST.

LOCAL DEVELOPMENTS & TRAFFIC

A dilapidated home at 42 Fayette Street has been spared from demolition after Binghamton City Council voted to sell the property directly to its sole occupant, Paul Sidorski, for $500.

The property came into city hands following a major legal neglect settlement involving a local developer. Instead of demolishing the home, the city is allowing Sidorski to rehabilitate the building into a safe, permanent residence.

On the South Side, the Broome County Land Bank has completed its first American Rescue Plan Act home renovation of the year. The property at 27 Columbia Avenue, once vacant and foreclosed, has been fully renovated and is now being offered through the Affordable Homes Program to help local families pursue homeownership.

Blues on the Bridge is also returning to its traditional location this summer. The grassroots music festival brings local blues, food and neighborhood gathering back to one of Binghamton’s signature public spaces.

Drivers should continue watching for storm-recovery crews, utility work, demolition activity and changing traffic patterns near redevelopment sites.

WEATHER AND 5-DAY FORECAST

From the NewsXR Weather Center

Binghamton is enjoying clear, sunny skies today with a refreshing temperature near 62 degrees and light west winds around 3 mph.

The Southern Tier is entering a beautiful, dry stretch heading into the weekend. High temperatures will gradually climb from the mid-70s into the low 80s before humidity and scattered storm chances return early next week.

Thursday: Sunny, 75 / 51, 0 percent rain chance.
Friday: Sunny, 80 / 53, 10 percent rain chance.
Saturday: Partly sunny, 80 / 57, 10 percent rain chance.
Sunday: Partly sunny, 81 / 62, 15 percent rain chance.
Monday: Light rain, 83 / 62, 20 percent rain chance.

The region gets a welcome break after severe storms, tornado damage and widespread cleanup needs. Residents planning outdoor work, events or travel should take advantage of the dry stretch, while still staying alert for storm-damaged areas and utility crews.

REGIONAL SPORTS UPDATE FROM THE NEWSXR SPORTS CENTER

The Binghamton Rumble Ponies snapped a costly four-game losing streak Wednesday night with a 2-1 win over the Portland Sea Dogs at Mirabito Stadium.

Outfield prospect Corey Collins delivered the decisive swing, driving in two runs with a clutch single in the bottom of the sixth inning to put Binghamton ahead for good.

The home series continues tonight in Binghamton, with first pitch scheduled for 6:07 p.m.

The reigning Federal Prospects Hockey League champion Binghamton Black Bears have added more offseason muscle, signing rookie forward Ludovik Tardif to his first professional contract. Tardif comes to the Southern Tier after recording 44 goals and 63 assists over his last two junior hockey seasons.

The FPHL also announced a major restructuring for the 2026-27 season. The league will expand into Eastern and Western conferences, with four total divisions, as five new expansion franchises join the league.

In youth baseball, the Corning-Painted Post Little League Senior Baseball Team won a sectional championship and will advance to the New York State Senior Little League Tournament hosted in Binghamton.

Area high school football players also wrapped up the annual Coach Mike D’Aloisio Memorial Lineman Camp in Elmira, highlighting local development for young athletes in the trenches.

At En-Joie Golf Club in Endicott, community conversation continues after the DICK’S Open. Dicky Pride won the 2026 title in a playoff against Padraig Harrington, while local discussion continues around infrastructure needs at the aging course ahead of the 2027 tour window.

UPCOMING EVENTS

Crest Fest 2026 takes over Hillcrest Community Park on Alida Avenue in Binghamton Friday, July 24, at 6 p.m. The annual summer festival features amateur softball, food trucks, live music by the Bro Bros and a large fireworks display.

The Broome-Mazing United Way Kickoff takes place Saturday, July 25, at 10 a.m. at Ross Park Zoo. The Amazing Race-style charity event sends registered teams through puzzle and physical challenges across the zoo grounds to launch the 2026-27 Community Campaign.

Live Ponies at Cones takes place Saturday, July 25, at 1 p.m. in Port Crane. Families can enjoy pony rides, grooming stations and activities with Twisted Roots Ranch.

The Endicott Summer Concert Series continues tonight at 7 p.m. at George W. Johnson Park Carousel on Oak Hill Avenue with Brothers & Friends.

Photo City Indie Showcase comes to the Bundy Museum of History and Art on Friday, July 24, at 5:30 p.m. The all-ages show features For The Better, Reminitions and Long Way Home. Tickets are $15.

Stillwater Junction performs Friday, July 24, at 9 p.m. at Tioga Downs Casino Resort in Nichols. The 18+ show features Southern rock, country and Americana covers.

Broome Bands Together returns Tuesday, July 28, at 6 p.m. at Otsiningo Park with Katie Scott and Persuasion. Non-perishable food items and monetary donations will be collected for CHOW.

The Binghamton Rumble Ponies continue their homestand against the Portland Sea Dogs at Mirabito Stadium through Sunday, with evening games starting at 6:07 p.m.

NOW PLAYING

At AMC Vestal Town Square 9, today’s listings include Twisters, Despicable Me 4, Inside Out 2, Longlegs, A Quiet Place: Day One, Fly Me to the Moon and Bad Boys: Ride or Die.

At Regal Binghamton, today’s listings include Twisters, Despicable Me 4, Inside Out 2, Longlegs, Fly Me to the Moon, A Quiet Place: Day One and Horizon: An American Saga – Chapter 1.

Movie times can change, so viewers should check directly with the theater before leaving.

COMMUNITY SPOTLIGHT

Housing, Restoration and Community Life Lead Today’s Southern Tier Spotlight

Today’s Community Spotlight begins at 42 Fayette Street, where a local resident now has a chance to save the home he lives in.

Binghamton City Council voted to sell the blighted property to Paul Sidorski for $500, giving him the opportunity to fully rehabilitate it instead of seeing it demolished. The decision turns a neglected property into a possible permanent home.

On Columbia Avenue, the Broome County Land Bank has completed a major affordable housing milestone. The renovated home at 27 Columbia Avenue is part of the Affordable Homes Program, aimed at giving local families a realistic path to homeownership.

Blues on the Bridge is also returning home this summer, bringing live music, food and neighbors back to one of Binghamton’s familiar community traditions.

This is the kind of local progress that does not always come with one giant headline, but it is the work that shapes neighborhoods: saving homes, restoring vacant properties, creating affordable ownership and keeping community traditions alive.

MYBROOME THEN

Transit, Theater Plans and Prohibition-Era Smuggling Marked July 23, 1926

One hundred years ago today, Southern Tier headlines were focused on transportation, downtown development, storm cleanup and Prohibition-era enforcement.

Regional transportation changes dominated public discussion as bus operators expanded lines connecting Binghamton, Johnson City and Endicott. The growth followed a state push to better regulate passenger routes and reduce uncoordinated local jitney traffic.

In downtown Binghamton, developers finalized plans for a major new commercial theater complex at 60 Exchange Street. The project was promoted as a future architectural anchor for the business district.

Rural communities around Broome County and into Delaware County were still clearing fallen timber and repairing property lines after a destructive electrical and lightning storm swept through the region.

Local authorities and federal agents were also continuing the Prohibition-era fight against illicit alcohol shipments moving through New York rail lines. Police reports described confusion over disguised commercial cargo manifests used to smuggle spirits into the Southern Tier.

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07/23/2026

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