News

NY maple syrup rebounds 59 percent after slow 2012

Tuesday, June 18th, 2013, 1:59pm

ALBANY, N.Y. (AP) - New York's maple syrup production surged this year, thanks to better weather for the sweet crop.

The U.S. Department of Agriculture says production was up 59 percent, from 360,000 to 574,000 gallons.

Sap flow was held down in 2012 because of the relatively warm weather in late winter and early spring. Federal experts say the colder early spring slowed budding on the trees and extended the season.

They say only Vermont produced more syrup than New York.

A total of 3.25 million gallons was produced nationally, up 70 percent from 2012.

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Hoffman's Playland Owner: "I want to retire"

Submitted by WNYT Staff

Saturday, June 15th, 2013, 10:21am

LATHAM-- At a press conference Saturday morning, Albany County Executive Dan McCoy said that it would be a shame to close Hoffman's Playland in Latham, given what it means to generations of families.

He now wants to work with the IDA, to hopefully find a buyer that would keep it a theme park.

Meantime, ask anyone who grew up in the 518 and Hoffman's Playland is the sound of summer.

"My children have come here, I came when I was a child and now I'm bringing my grandchildren," says Rich Alber, of Wynantskill, who was visiting the park Friday with his grandsons.

What's been whispered--and dreaded--for years now, that the long-time owners want to sell, is finally fact.

"The only thing I can tell you with absolute certainty is my wife and I would like to retire at some point," confirms Dave Hoffman.

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Class of the Capital Region enjoys day of fun

Submitted by WNYT Staff

Friday, June 14th, 2013, 4:08pm

The 2013 Class of the Capital Region, and Jim Kambrich -

The best and brightest students in the Capital Region are enjoying a day of fun and recreation at The Great Escape in Lake George.

It's part of NewsChannel 13 and The Great Escape's "Class of the Capital Region".

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Capital Region under flood watch

Submitted by WNYT Staff

Thursday, June 13th, 2013, 5:38pm

The entire Capital Region is under a flood watch Thursday night and will stay that way through Saturday morning.

In downtown Albany, people rushed into buildings, hiding under umbrellas.

In Pittsfield, the water was so high along Dan Casey Memorial Drive, that some folks were fly fishing.

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Cuomo bill details plans for tax-free zones in NY

Submitted by WNYT Staff

Monday, June 10th, 2013, 3:50pm

ALBANY, N.Y. (AP) - Gov. Andrew Cuomo has released his bill for the tax-free job creation program he promoted last week during a statewide tour.

The bill detailing the program Monday for the first time shows it could be established upstate, in New York City's outer boroughs and on Long Island. It would exclude retailers, real estate and professional businesses.

Cuomo wants to create tax-free zones on or near public and private campuses. New employers would have to partner with a campus in an academic field. That could involve high-technology companies.

The companies and their employees wouldn't pay state or local taxes, including income taxes, business taxes, property taxes, and Metropolitan Transportation payroll taxes, for 10 years.

After five years, employees or owners making $200,000 or more would pay some taxes.

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Free science exhibit to be held for young children

Submitted by WNYT Staff

Monday, June 10th, 2013, 3:28pm

SCHENECTADY - The Museum of Innovation and Science (MiSci) and The Sun Is My Favorite Star introduces kids age three to five to science for free Thursday or Saturday at 11 a.m.

Advanced registrants receive a free book with materials to continue studying science while at home.

Space and supplies are limited.

For more information or to registrar, call (518)-382-7890 x 224 or click here.

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