News Staff

DEC has issued an update on drought conditions across the state. The State’s Drought Management Task Force updated the drought status to “Normal” from “Drought Watch” for multiple regions including most of upstate New York because of recent rainfall and higher levels of ground and surface water. Despite the encouraging hydrological conditions, all New Yorkers are urged to continue reducing unnecessary water waste, fixing leaks, and choosing efficient water fixtures. Saratoga, Albany, Rennselaer and Schenectady counties are among those returning to normal designations.

Workers hoping to unionize at the massive Amazon warehouse in Schodack received a shot in the arm on Monday. Sen. Kristen Gillibrand – one of the nation’s leading backers of labor unions – came to their rally. The main theme of her message was fairness for American workers. WNYT reports there are nearly 1,000 workers on the payroll in Schodack.

Saratoga Public Safety Commissioner Jim Montagnino says this time last year the city was coming off a summer filled with stabbings, shootings, and violence. He says now, the string of violence looks to be in the rearview mirror for Saratoga Springs, crediting that to increasing the police department’s visibility this summer. WRGB reports those efforts included officers patrolling on foot, horse, bikes, and vehicles.

The Saratoga Showcase of Homes hosted “Women in the Trades” on Saturday. WTEN reports the event was for ninth and 10th grade female students from local school districts, who built six 4’ x 8’ lean-to sheds of the same design. The event was intended to inspire young women to pursue careers in skilled trades and construction.

The Saratoga National Historical Park is hosting several days of events to commemorate the 250th anniversary of the American Revolution. This month marks 245 years since British General John Burgoyne surrendered his army to General Horatio Gates in 1777.

State Police arrested 34 year old Joseph D. Michaud of Waterford, NY, for Driving While Intoxicated and other Vehicle and Traffic Law violations. On October 5, 2022, at about 7:26 p.m., Troopers responded to a two-car crash on I-87 in Malta, NY. During the investigation, Troopers identified the at-fault vehicle’s operator as Michaud. Michaud was arrested for Driving While Intoxicated. He has had previous DWI convictions in the last ten years. The other vehicle’s driver reported discomfort due to the accident but refused medical evaluation on the scene.

The lawyer challenging incumbent Saratoga County District Attorney Karen Heggen is slamming what he says was “negligence” in a lack of local prosecution of the sex cult, NXIVM. WTEN reports, according to Heggen, Michael Phillips comments on NXIVM show a lack of knowledge when it comes to the scope of the job, and the jurisdictions involved in such a case.

The New York State Office of General Services is set to auction off several surplus vehicles and other equipment. The auction is set for October 12 at 9:30 a.m. at 2369 Route 50 in Saratoga Springs. WTEN reports internet bidding is not available for this auction. It’s live bidding only. A 13% buyer’s premium will be charged on all purchases.

The scheduled sentencing for the former General Electric engineer convicted of conspiracy to commit economic espionage has been moved. WNYT reports Xiaoqing Zheng of Niskayuna faces up to 15 years in prison and up to $5 million in fines when he is sentenced for conspiring to steal GE’s trade secrets involving gas and steam turbine technologies, knowing it would benefit China.

Tuesday, State Police of Wilton arrested 33 year old Michelle Wilson of Greenfield for Criminal Mischief , Menacing,weapons counts and Harassment An investigation determined during a verbal argument, Wilson displayed a knife and an axe. She threatened harm and used both weapons to cause damage to the home and belongings inside. She was arraigned at the Wilton Town Court and released on her own recognizance.