UPDATE: Major developments are unfolding in Buffalo as the Common Council approves a significant government reorganization plan proposed by Mayor Ryan. This decision, announced earlier today, aims to streamline city operations by introducing key changes, including the appointment of up to four deputy mayors instead of two. While the plan has been approved, it still requires a public hearing and final mayoral consent.
In another impactful news story, the family of William Sager has been awarded a $3 million settlement following his tragic death in 2014. Sager, a National Guardsman, died after being violently pushed down a flight of stairs at what was once Molly’s Pub. The perpetrator, Jeffrey Basil, received an 18-year prison sentence for his actions. This settlement brings long-awaited closure to the Sager family.
Advocates in New York are urgently pushing for the inclusion of Kyra’s Law in Governor Kathy Hochul’s executive budget proposal. The legislation aims to protect children during custody battles, named after 2-year-old Kyra Franchetti, who was tragically killed during an unsupervised visit in 2016. This proposed law underscores the ongoing need for child safety measures in family court decisions.
In a developing story, New York advocates are responding to controversial new proposals from the Trump administration regarding gender-related care for minors. The administration threatens to cut federal funding from hospitals providing such care, raising concerns about the potential harm to vulnerable populations already facing significant challenges.
Meanwhile, excitement is building for this year’s Powerball drawing on December 24, 2023, with a staggering $1.7 billion jackpot up for grabs. Lottery players across the nation are eagerly anticipating a chance to transform their holiday season with a life-changing win.
As we look to the weather, Buffalo’s forecast reveals a relatively calm pattern through Christmas, with daytime temperatures reaching the mid to upper 30s. A storm system is expected to arrive on Friday, potentially bringing a wintry mix and up to 6 inches of snow in some areas. Residents are advised to prepare for changing conditions as temperatures drop over the weekend.
Stay tuned for these breaking stories and more updates as they develop. Share your thoughts on these urgent matters and what they mean for our community.
