In this issue of Watertown NY

📅 Upcoming Events in Watertown NY for the Week

☁️ Watertown NY Weather Update

🌡️ From Warm Showers to Snowflakes: Central NY's Weather Takes a Chilly Turn

✈️ New York State Invests in Future of Travel with Major Syracuse Airport Upgrade

❤️‍🩹 From Crisis to Recovery: NY Reclaims All Jobs Lost to COVID-19

👩‍🌾 Addressing Farmer's Plight: New York Farm Bureau Seeks Reform in Farm Policy and Labor Wages

🚔 Property Damage Leads to Burglary Charges Against 45-Year-Old Man

🚨 Security Concerns Escalate with Storage Unit Thefts in Lewis County

⚒️ Steady Jobless Claims Highlight Robust U.S. Employment Sector

🏀 Underdog vs. Champion: LaFargeville Takes on Hammond in Pivotal State Basketball Quarterfinal

Upcoming Events in Watertown NY for the Week

8-Mar-2024

Gallery Reading with Psychic Medium Chanel Russell

9-Mar-2024

Battle of the Badges 4

Watertown Wolves at Motor City Rockers

10-Mar-2024

Trio Lucente: At the Café

Manifest-March New Moon Ceremony-IN PERSON/ VIRUTAL

From Warm Showers to Snowflakes: Central NY's Weather Takes a Chilly Turn

The second weekend of March will see a mix of rain and potential snow in Central New York, with temperatures starting off above average on Saturday before dropping over the following days. While Saturday will be breezy with rain showers, a chillier Sunday could bring snow showers, particularly in elevated areas. The cold snap continues into Monday, with the chance of lake effect snow, although significant accumulations are not expected. This fluctuation in weather underscores the unpredictable nature of March in the region.

New York State Invests in Future of Travel with Major Syracuse Airport Upgrade

New York state is investing $20 million in Syracuse Hancock International Airport as part of a $230 million initiative to upgrade airports across the state. This funding will allow Syracuse to expand its north concourse and federal inspection station, increasing seating and concession space, and enhancing the station's passenger processing capacity. The project is a key component of the state's strategy to modernize travel infrastructure and stimulate economic growth through improved airport facilities.

From Crisis to Recovery: NY Reclaims All Jobs Lost to COVID-19

New York State has successfully recovered the private-sector jobs lost during the COVID-19 pandemic, with recent data showing an addition of 47,000 jobs in January, reaching a total of 8,346,200 jobs. This achievement marks a significant rebound from the pandemic's peak, where job numbers had fallen to a 30-year low. The unemployment rate now stands at 4.5%, with the state slowly catching up to the national recovery pace. Governor Kathy Hochul and State Comptroller Tom DiNapoli have both acknowledged the state's economic resurgence, though challenges remain.

Addressing Farmer's Plight: New York Farm Bureau Seeks Reform in Farm Policy and Labor Wages

The New York Farm Bureau is pushing for an update to the Farm Bill and reform of H-2A labor wage rates to address the needs of the agricultural sector. Key issues include support for specialty crop insurance, sustainability programs, equitable milk pricing, and mental health resources. Amid challenges like inflation and climate change, the bureau emphasizes the importance of these reforms to ensure the stability of America's food supply and the well-being of farmers.

Property Damage Leads to Burglary Charges Against 45-Year-Old Man

John T. Millard, 45, from Boonville, was charged with second-degree burglary and fourth-degree criminal mischief for breaking into a residence in Castorland and causing damage. This incident, which occurred on March 5, underscores the legal repercussions of such actions and raises awareness about residential security.

Security Concerns Escalate with Storage Unit Thefts in Lewis County

In a recent alert, the Lewis County Sheriff’s Office has highlighted an alarming trend of break-ins at storage units across the region. Authorities are urging individuals renting these facilities to conduct thorough inspections of their unit locks. Reports have emerged of original locks being tampered with or entirely substituted for new ones, raising concerns over the security of stored belongings.

Steady Jobless Claims Highlight Robust U.S. Employment Sector

The U.S. labor market remains strong, with jobless claims stable at 217,000 for the latest week. Despite high interest rates, the economy is resilient, evidenced by significant job growth and a low unemployment rate of 3.7%. While some sectors experience layoffs, the overall labor market continues to thrive.

"Underdog vs. Champion: LaFargeville Takes on Hammond in Pivotal State Basketball Quarterfinal

The upcoming New York State Class D girls' basketball quarterfinals feature a compelling matchup between the defending champions, Hammond, and first-time contenders, LaFargeville. Scheduled for Sunday at Jefferson Community College, the game highlights Hammond's pursuit of another title with a seasoned roster against LaFargeville's debut state appearance following their first sectional win. With contrasting experiences but similar determination, both teams are set to deliver an unforgettable performance.