Sentinel Today
Sentinel Today is a weekday news podcast from the Daily Sentinel newspaper, covering local news, sports, and events in Utica, Rome, Herkimer, Oneida, and the wider Mohawk Valley region. Each episode provides a quick, convenient update on the day's top stories to keep listeners informed. The show also directs audiences to URSentinel.com for more detailed coverage.
Episodes
Friday August 21st: New Hartford Takes Up BJ’s Review
New Hartford is taking the next major step in reviewing a proposed BJ’s Wholesale Club at Sangertown Square.Support the show: http://URSentinel.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Thursday August 20th: Rome Rededicates Griffo Green
Rome has rededicated the renovated front lawn of City Hall as the Joseph Griffo Green, honoring the former mayor and current state senator for his decades of public service.Support the show: http://URSentinel.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Wednesday August 19th: Utica’s Flock Camera Debate
Utica’s continued use of Flock license plate cameras is fueling debate over whether their value as a police investigative tool outweighs concerns about privacy, data sharing, and potential misuse.Support the show: http://URSentinel.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Tuesday August 18th: Constantino Video Draws Backlash
Disability advocates are calling on New York congressional candidate Anthony Constantino to apologize for a 2024 video using a disability slur, while Constantino and comedian Ricky Berwick defend the video and say the backlash is politically motivated.Support the show: http://URSentinel.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Monday August 17th: A New Mural at the Clinton Cider Mill
Local artists Tim Rand and Maria Vallese are finishing a 1,300-square-foot mural at the Clinton Cider Mill celebrating agriculture, community growth, and the business’s upcoming 100th anniversary.Support the show: http://URSentinel.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Friday August 14th: Rome Moves Downtown Plans Forward
Rome’s Common Council unanimously approved a $150,000 Canal Street property purchase tied to downtown redevelopment, a revenue-sharing agreement with the new Copper City Chiefs hockey team, and several other local measures involving internships, traffic, property sales and dog-license fees.Support the show: http://URSentinel.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Thursday August 13th: Chobani Reaffirms Plans for Rome
Chobani’s Rome plant is moving forward, with construction expected to begin between 2027 and 2028.Support the show: http://URSentinel.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Wednesday August 12th: Old Problems Persist at Mary D. Buck Apartments
Residents of the Mary D Buck Memorial Apartments in Whitesboro are under new management, but village officials say many of the building’s old problems remain unresolved.Support the show: http://URSentinel.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Tuesday August 11th: Rome Mourns Couple Killed in Murder-Suicide
A double murder-suicide in Madison County has claimed the life of a longtime Rome businessman and community supporter, along with his wife.Support the show: http://URSentinel.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Monday August 10th: Court Clears Deerfield Housing Project
A judge ordered Deerfield to approve PathStone’s 65-unit affordable housing project, ruling the town acted arbitrarily by delaying it over speculative infrastructure concerns tied to unrelated future development.Support the show: http://URSentinel.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Friday August 7th: Voters to Weigh Staley Demolition Plan
Rome school voters will decide in December on significant capital project that will include demolishing the former Staley Elementary School.Support the show: http://URSentinel.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Thursday August 6th: Route 46 Project Divides Opinions
A Rome business owner says Route 46 safety upgrades near Ridge Mills Elementary School could worsen traffic by removing road shoulders, while state officials argue the new sidewalk, curbs, and crosswalks will better protect pedestrians.Support the show: http://URSentinel.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Wednesday August 5th: State Fair Food Earns National Praise
The New York State Fair ranked fourth nationally for festival food, celebrated for its mix of affordable classics, creative indulgences, and diverse international offerings.Support the show: http://URSentinel.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Tuesday August 4th: Utica Expands Police Residency Rules
The Utica Common Council unanimously approved a five-year suspension of the city’s police residency requirement, allowing new officers to live in the county or neighboring counties in an effort to address recruitment shortages.Support the show: http://URSentinel.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Monday August 3rd: Whitesboro Stages Full-Scale Emergency Drill
Whitesboro Central School District held a realistic, multi-agency emergency drill simulating a chlorine gas leak to test response plans and improve student safety.Support the show: http://URSentinel.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Friday July 31st: Utica Recognizes Judge Hurd’s Service
After 35 years on the federal bench, Judge David Hurd will be honored with the naming of Utica’s federal courthouse for his lifelong service, landmark rulings, mentorship, and commitment to preserving justice in the region.Support the show: http://URSentinel.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Thursday July 30th: Utica National and the Buffalo Bills Join Forces
Utica National Insurance Group has become an official Buffalo Bills insurance partner, marking its largest corporate sponsorship and expanding its visibility, growth opportunities, and community impact.Support the show: http://URSentinel.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Wednesday July 29th: Vernon Studio Earns Top National Award
"Star Performance Dance Centre" in Vernon earned "Studio of the Year" and numerous other national honors after 66 dancers delivered standout performances at the "Elite Dance Challenge" in Providence.Support the show: http://URSentinel.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Tuesday July 28th: Utica School Board Places Employee on Paid Leave
The Utica City School District Board of Education held a brief but significant special meeting Monday evening, ending with a unanimous decision to place a district employee on paid administrative leave.Support the show: http://URSentinel.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Monday July 27th: Rome Celebrates America at 250
Rome celebrated America’s 250th anniversary with a patriotic parade, concert, and fireworks that brought thousands together to honor freedom, history, veterans, and community.Support the show: http://URSentinel.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Friday July 24th: FedEx Restructuring Hits Oriskany
FedEx closed its Oriskany facility under its Network 2.0 restructuring, affecting 31 employees and redirecting customers to nearby drop-off locations.Support the show: http://URSentinel.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Thursday July 23rd: Utica Debates Police Residency Requirement
The Utica Common Council is weighing a proposal that could change where newly hired police officers are allowed to live, as city leaders continue searching for ways to address staffing challenges.Support the show: http://URSentinel.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Wednesday July 22nd: Leadership Changes Ahead for Utica Schools
The Utica school board voted not to renew Superintendent Christopher Spence’s contract, while extending Acting Superintendent Kathleen Davis’s agreement and addressing concerns about leadership, communication, student services, and union negotiations.Support the show: http://URSentinel.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Tuesday July 21st: A First Look at Frontier Roads
Frontier Roads, a new family entertainment park in Westmoreland featuring food, shopping, games, live music, and future attractions, will celebrate its grand opening on Thursday, July 23rd.Support the show: http://URSentinel.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Monday July 20th: Rome School Board Hears Community Concerns
The Rome school board meeting balanced praise for student-centered graduation events with community concerns over staffing, special education services, communication, and several upcoming leadership changes.Support the show: http://URSentinel.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Friday July 17th: Whitesboro Advances Public Safety Plans
Whitesboro village leaders are moving forward with several public safety decisions.Support the show: http://URSentinel.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Thursday July 16th: Wolfspeed’s Patent Fight With Navitas
Wolfspeed has sued Navitas Semiconductor, alleging that several gallium nitride and silicon carbide products infringe five patents central to its power-semiconductor technology.Support the show: http://URSentinel.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Wednesday July 15th: Utica-Rome Honors a Racing Legend
Utica-Rome Speedway will honor one of its most successful drivers tonight with the Dale Planck Memorial.Support the show: http://URSentinel.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Tuesday July 14th: Rome’s Hidden History
Rome author Frank Pape’s new book uses historic maps and local research to reveal the canals, forts, landmarks, and forgotten history hidden throughout the city.Support the show: http://URSentinel.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Monday July 13th: A Son’s Tribute on Race Day
Ilion native, Keith Willner, completed the Boilermaker 15K in honor of his late father, continuing a cherished family tradition.Support the show: http://URSentinel.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Friday July 10th: Discrimination Claims Rock Utica City Schools
Utica Superintendent Christopher Spence alleges the school board discriminated and retaliated against him after he raised concerns about its conduct.Support the show: http://URSentinel.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Thursday July 9th: How Utica Prepares for Race Day
Utica is coordinating city departments, residents, and businesses to clean, inspect, and prepare roads, public spaces, and race areas ahead of the annual Boilermaker Road Race.Support the show: http://URSentinel.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Wednesday July 8th: The Merci Train Rolls Into Union Station
New York’s historic Merci Train boxcar, a 1949 gift from France thanking Americans for postwar aid, has been moved from Whitesboro to Union Station in Utica for continued preservation.Support the show: http://URSentinel.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Tuesday July 7th: Inside This Year’s Munson Arts Festival
Munson’s Arts Festival returns July 11th through the 19th in Utica, with a packed week of art, music, dancing, family activities, and special museum events.Support the show: http://URSentinel.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Monday July 6th: Utica Marks America’s 250th
Utica marked Independence Day and the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence with its annual Fourth of July parade down Genesee Street, featuring local groups, first responders, officials, and community celebrations continuing later at Harbor Point.Support the show: http://URSentinel.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Friday July 3rd: Weekend Jail for Father of Officer Jensen’s Killer
Joseph Murphy, the father of the man who killed Syracuse police officer Michael Jensen and Onondaga County Sheriff’s Lieutenant Michael Hoosock, was sentenced to weekend jail time for an unrelated illegal gun possession charge, as Jensen’s family spoke about the lasting impact of Michael’s death.Support the show: http://URSentinel.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy inform
Thursday July 2nd: Vintage Wedding Rings Found After Pipe Repair
A Rome homeowner discovered a vintage engagement ring and matching wedding band, worth about $5,000, after a basement pipe repair at her 1857 home.Support the show: http://URSentinel.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Wednesday July 1st: Independence Day Across the Mohawk Valley
Across the Mohawk Valley and surrounding areas, Independence Day weekend will bring parades, fireworks, festivals, and family-friendly celebrations as communities mark America’s 250th anniversary observance.Support the show: http://URSentinel.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Tuesday June 30th: Fatal Stabbing Case Gets Final Court Delay
A judge granted one final delay in Gregory Mignot Jr.’s Rome murder case, moving his next court date to July 20 as he faces charges in the fatal stabbing of Michael Brown.Support the show: http://URSentinel.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Monday June 29th: Bellamy Harbor Hosts Symphony & Drone Show
Rome will host a free July 11th community celebration at Bellamy Harbor Park featuring activities, food vendors, an Albany Symphony Orchestra concert with an original piece about the city, and a closing drone show.Support the show: http://URSentinel.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Friday June 26th: Utica Glass begins a new chapter
Utica Glass has relaunched under new owner and CEO Kola Aina, with plans to preserve its local legacy while expanding its commercial glazing capabilities and regional reach.Support the show: http://URSentinel.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Thursday June 25th: Boilermaker Founder Leaves Board
Boilermaker Road Race founder Earle Reed is retiring from the Board of Directors but will remain involved after nearly 50 years of shaping one of Utica’s signature community events.Support the show: http://URSentinel.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Wednesday June 24th: Cazenovia Official Charged Federally
Cazenovia school board vice president, Travis Longo, is now facing state child endangerment charges and federal child pornography charges.Support the show: http://URSentinel.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Tuesday June 23rd: 100 Guinea Pigs and Counting
A Utica woman’s guinea pig population grew from two misidentified pets to about 100 animals, prompting rescues to step in as many needed medical care and some may now be pregnant.Support the show: http://URSentinel.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Monday June 22nd: Costly Repairs Lead to Church Closure
Our Lady of the Rosary Church in New Hartford will close and eventually be sold because of costly repairs and limited parish finances, with Our Lady of Lourdes becoming the parish’s sole worship site on July 16.Support the show: http://URSentinel.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Friday June 19th: MVHS, Excellus Launch New Health Initiative
Mohawk Valley Health System and Excellus Blue Cross Blue Shield have announced a three-year effort called the Mohawk Valley Partnership for Healthy Lifestyles Initiative.Support the show: http://URSentinel.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Thursday June 18th: Ex-Partner Testifies in Former Deputy’s Trial
On Wednesday, Jennifer Gudnaya said her custody dispute with former deputy Aaron Alshaman came just before he allegedly set fire to her family’s home.Support the show: http://URSentinel.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Wednesday June 17th: A Camp About More Than Football
The "A Call to Men Football Camp" at Utica University used football drills, mentorship, and John Petrelli’s story of overcoming paralysis to teach local boys leadership, resilience, respect, and character.Support the show: http://URSentinel.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Tuesday June 16th: RFA Valedictorian Heads Out
Rome Free Academy valedictorian Elijah Pomales was honored with an early graduation ceremony before leaving for the Air Force Academy, where he hopes to eventually serve in the Space Force.Support the show: http://URSentinel.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Monday June 15th: Former Deputy Faces Trial in Utica Arson Case
Jury selection is set to begin today in Utica for the trial of former county sheriff’s deputy Aaron Alshaman, who's facing serious charges tied to an alleged arson at the home of his infant child’s mother.Support the show: http://URSentinel.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Friday June 12th: The Ponzi Scheme That Shook Madison County
Madison County is still reckoning with the fallout from a massive Ponzi scheme that prosecutors say drained millions of dollars from nearly a thousand investors.Support the show: http://URSentinel.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Thursday June 11th: Notice Filed After Boonville Church Explosion
A legal notice has been filed after the February explosion that destroyed Abundant Life Church in Boonville. But the attorney representing the church’s pastor says that doesn't mean a lawsuit is coming.Support the show: http://URSentinel.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Wednesday June 10th: Inside Oneida County Pride
Over the weekend, the Oneida County Pride Alliance’s fourth annual Pride Festival celebrated LGBTQ community, visibility, and activism.Support the show: http://URSentinel.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Tuesday June 9th: CNY’s Relay For Life Hits Year Five
More than 530 people gathered Saturday at Delta Lake State Park for the fifth annual Relay For Life of Central New York, continuing a local tradition of support for people affected by cancer.Support the show: http://URSentinel.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Monday June 8th: Lindsey’s Hometown Special Olympics
Elaine Lindsey, a longtime Utica Special Olympics athlete, made her hometown Summer Games especially meaningful by competing alongside her husband and son.Support the show: http://URSentinel.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Friday June 5th: Utica’s Summer Street Plan
Utica will begin its annual roadway improvement program on June 15th, with paving, repairs, micro-paving, and maintenance planned across dozens of streets to improve safety and extend road life.Support the show: http://URSentinel.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Thursday June 4th: Roscoe Conkling’s Rise, Rivalry, and Gilded Age Power
History comes home to Utica this weekend, with a look at one of the city’s most powerful, and most combative, political figures.Support the show: http://URSentinel.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Wednesday June 3rd: Utica Welcomes Special Olympics
The Special Olympics New York State Summer Games are coming to Utica University on June 5th and 6th. The Games are expected to bring more than 1,200 athletes with intellectual disabilities to the area for two days of competition, celebration, and community support.Support the show: http://URSentinel.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Tuesday June 2nd: Pride Month and Utica’s Flag Rules
Utica leaders recognized Pride Month with proclamations, Pride displays, and messages of inclusion, even as debate continues over the city’s ceremonial flag-raising policy.Support the show: http://URSentinel.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Monday June 1st: Cornhill Turns Out for a New Mural
Utica’s Cornhill neighborhood came together Saturday for a celebration centered on pride, connection, and a new piece of public art.Support the show: http://URSentinel.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Friday May 29th: Passing the Torch at Cafe Daniele
For half a century, generations of Uticans have come to Cafe Daniele for tomato pie, catered family gatherings, and familiar faces behind the counter. Now, one of the city’s longtime Italian food staples is entering a new era.Support the show: http://URSentinel.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Thursday May 28th: Utica Reopens the Flag Question
Utica's mayor vetoed a Common Council flag-raising ordinance over First Amendment concerns, leaving the city’s broader flag policy dispute unresolved even as Pride Month recognition continues.Support the show: http://URSentinel.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Wednesday May 27th: Copper Easel Closes in Rome
The Copper Easel in Rome will close at the end of June after seven years. The owner, Adam Chrisman, is citing rising expenses, declining sales, debt, and other pressures.Support the show: http://URSentinel.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Tuesday May 26th: Classroom Turned Holocaust Museum in Herkimer
A classroom in Herkimer was transformed into a Holocaust museum this spring, giving Pathways Academy students a more immersive way to study history.Support the show: http://URSentinel.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Monday May 25th: Memorial Day across the Mohawk Valley
Communities across the Mohawk Valley are marking Memorial Day with parades, wreath layings, rifle salutes, and ceremonies honoring the men and women who died while serving in the United States military.Support the show: http://URSentinel.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Friday May 22nd: Rome Fire Markers Missing
22 brass grave markers honoring fallen Rome firefighters were stolen from local cemeteries before Memorial Day, prompting the fire department to seek their return and replace them at its own expense.Support the show: http://URSentinel.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Thursday May 21st: Prison Beating Under Investigation
A 45-year-old Marcy Correctional Facility inmate, Terry Demonstoy, suffered life-threatening injuries after state police say he was severely beaten by another inmate Friday night.Support the show: http://URSentinel.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Wednesday May 20th: Saving Schuyler Street Tower
Utica preservationists are restoring the historic Schuyler Street Tower, a rare surviving railroad control structure that once protected West Utica crossings and now stands as a reminder of the city’s industrial past.Support the show: http://URSentinel.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Tuesday May 19th: Ulukaya on New York’s AI Commission
Chobani founder and CEO, Hamdi Ulukaya, has been named to New York’s Future Works commission, which will recommend how the state can use AI to grow the economy while protecting workers.Support the show: http://URSentinel.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Monday May 18th: Dennis Dewey’s 2051 Premieres in Utica
Local filmmaker Dennis Dewey’s sci-fi feature “2051: The Return Project,” about a scientist whose consciousness is digitally preserved and awakened in the future, will premiere May 21st in Utica.Support the show: http://URSentinel.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Friday May 15th: Petition backs Coach Hayduk
Clinton boys basketball coach, Mike Hayduk, says he was told he won't be retained after next season, prompting strong community support and a petition calling for his reinstatement.Support the show: http://URSentinel.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Thursday May 14th: First Presbyterian’s Slow, Steady Rebuild
First Presbyterian Church in Rome has completed roof repairs nearly two years after a July 2024 tornado badly damaged the building, and crews are now rebuilding the sanctuary with new drywall, HVAC, electrical systems, entrance work, and a balcony. The church is still raising funds to replace its steeple, which could cost more than $1 million, while services continue at Zion Episcopal until reopen
Wednesday May 13th: Whitesboro’s Anniversary Time Capsules
Whitesboro Central School District marked its 90th anniversary by burying two time capsules at the middle school, filled with school memorabilia to be opened by a future generation in 2051.Support the show: http://URSentinel.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Tuesday May 12th: Crust Kitchen and Bar Expands
Crust Kitchen and Bar opened its second location in Utica’s Bagg’s Square, bringing the same made-from-scratch sandwiches, sides, and bourbon-focused menu that made its Rome restaurant popular.Support the show: http://URSentinel.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Monday May 11th: Rome Mom’s Bodybuilding Debut
Rome teacher and mom of two Tory Ferlo made a strong bodybuilding debut April 18 at the OCB Big East Natural in Syracuse, placing in all four Bikini Division categories. She trained for about six months, dialing in intense workouts and strict macro-based nutrition that she says was the hardest part of prep. Turning 40 helped motivate her to push herself, and she plans to compete again June 20 in R
Friday May 8th: Rome’s Draft Parks, Trails, and Open Space Plan
Rome is looking for public feedback through May 19th on a draft Parks, Open Space and Trails Master Plan that proposes major upgrades, pool changes, new splash pads, a possible regional park, and an indoor sports arena.Support the show: http://URSentinel.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Thursday May 7th: Two Hotels Move Forward at Griffiss
The Rome Planning Board conditionally approved two new four-story hotels, a commercial building, and two property subdivisions, with some items still requiring Zoning Board review.Support the show: http://URSentinel.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Wednesday May 6th: Inside Utica Schools’ Budget Proposal
Utica City School District’s proposed $310 million budget would keep staffing and programs intact, hold the tax levy flat, and go before voters on May 19th.Support the show: http://URSentinel.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Tuesday May 5th: New Hartford Public Library Turns 50
The New Hartford Public Library is celebrating 50 years since 10 local women founded it in a converted school basement shower room, growing it into a community hub for books, programs and connection.Support the show: http://URSentinel.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Monday May 4th: How CNY Developers Are Building a Game Community
Central New York’s indie game developers are building a growing local scene through showcases, meetups, college programs, and self-made projects that prove serious games can come from outside major industry hubs.Support the show: http://URSentinel.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
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