Federal agencies ran a large-scale nuclear incident training exercise last week across Schenectady, Albany, and Saratoga counties. The drill, which started January 26 and ran through January 31, involved the FBI, Department of Defense, Department of Homeland Security, and other agencies working alongside local law enforcement. According to officials and a statement from the FBI directly, this was just a routine exercise, not a response to any actual threat. The goal was to sharpen emergency response tactics in case of a real nuclear event, whether in the U.S. or abroad. The training included deploying the National Technical Nuclear Forensics Ground Collection Task Force, a team responsible for collecting and analyzing nuclear debris samples in nuclear crises. Officials told those in the area to expect to see more military personnel, aircraft, and even people in protective gear, though they stressed that there’s no reason for alarm, even if it might have looked intense. “The public does not need to be alarmed by training-related activity,” the FBI said in a statement. The exercise was focused on key locations like Albany Airport, Stratton Air National Guard Base, and parts of northern Saratoga County. Local law enforcement, including New York State Police and sheriff’s offices from Albany, Saratoga, and Schenectady counties, were also involved. The training wasn’t open to the public or media due to its sensitive nature, but officials said that it’s a necessary part of national security preparedness. These response drills happen every two years, with previous exercises held in different regions of the country. Planned for this particular event started last spring well before recent global tensions surrounding nuclear threats. Officials insist the timing is purely coincidental. While it’s not every day you see a full-scale nuclear indecent drill happening nearby, officials hope the public understands the importance of staying prepared. If nothing else, it’s a reminder that agencies at all levels are training for worst-case scenarios, so the rest of us don’t have to.
A proposal to build a soccer stadium, housing, and retail space at Liberty Park in Albany faces competition after the developers’ exclusive agreement expired. This comes as Albany is in line to receive $400 million in state funding for downtown revitalization. In May of 2024, Ed and Lisa Mitzen of Business for Good and developer Jeff Buell introduced a plan to build an 8,000-seat stadium, which would be part of a larger development with housing and shops. The goal was to transform the underused Liberty Park area into a vibrant neighborhood. However, after the agreement expired in November, Capitalize Albany is now opening the project up to new proposals. Capitalize Albany President Ashley Mohl said the city is excited to work with the state to maximize the potential of the site. “We’re looking forward to seeing what new ideas come forward,” Mohl said.
Mayor Kathy Sheehan has expressed support for the project, saying it could boost Albany’s economy while preserving its historic character. Assemblywoman Patricia Fahy also sees the stadium as part of a larger plan to reconnect Albany to its waterfront and revitalize the downtown area. With the property now open to new proposals, the future of the Liberty Park development remains uncertain. However, if the soccer stadium project moves forward, it could bring positive change to Albany’s downtown.
American Airlines Jet and U.S. Army Helicopter Crash Over Potomac, 67 Dead
In a devastating midair collision Wednesday night, an American Airlines passenger jet and a U.S. Army helicopter crashed over the icy waters of the Potomac River near Ronald Reagan National Airport, killing all 67 people aboard. Officials have called the crash the worst U.S. aviation disaster in nearly 24 years. The American Airlines Bombardier CRJ700 was on its final approach to Reagan National, arriving from Wichita, Kansas, when the helicopter reportedly entered its flight path. The aircraft clipped each other at high speed, creating a massive fireball and sending debris and wreckage into the river below. Witnesses described a horrifying scene as the jet broke into three sections upon impact with the water, while the helicopter’s remains were found scattered across many miles of land. Rescue teams worked overnight in freezing conditions, recovering at least 28 bodies from the Potomac River by Thursday morning. Divers continued their search throughout the day, working alongside investigators from the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) and the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). By late Thursday, authorities confirmed that the remains of all three soldiers aboard the Army helicopter had been located. “The investigation and recovery efforts remain active,” D.C. Fire and EMS said in a statement. “We are working diligently to locate all victims and aircraft components to support the investigation.” The cause of the collision remains unclear, but reports suggest that an air traffic control staffing issue may have played a role. According to an FAA report obtained by The Associated Press, one air traffic controller was handling two positions at the time of the crash, an unusual and potentially dangerous scenario, especially given the volume of traffic at Reagan National.
President Donald Trump addressed the nation Thursday morning, confirming there were no survivors. “As one nation, we grieve for every precious soul taken from us so suddenly,” he spoke. However, his remarks later in the day sparked controversy when he suggested that FAA diversity hiring initiatives may have compromised air safety. The NTSB has recovered the plane’s black box and cockpit voice recorder, which have been sent for analysis. “We’re here to assure the American people that we will leave no stone unturned in this investigation,” NTSB Chairwoman Jennifer Homendy said at a press conference. Officials expect to release a preliminary report within 30 days. Among those who lost their lives were two young figure skaters, two of their parents, and two esteemed Russian coaches. Doug Zeghibe, CEO of the Skating Club of Boston, confirmed on Thursday that skaters Jinna Han and Spencer Lane, along with coaches Evgenia Shishkova and Vadim Naumov, were among the victims. Also among the victims were two Chinese nationals, according to the Chinese Embassy, which pledged to assist the victims’ families. Several former students from Loudoun County Public Schools were also on board, deepening the tragedy’s impact on the local community. The crash disrupted air traffic at Reagan National, grounding flights overnight. By Thursday morning, operations resumed, but delays persisted as investigators continued working at the crash site. As families, the community, and the nation mourn, authorities are focused on determining what went wrong and preventing such a catastrophe from occurring again. “Our mission is to understand not just what happened, but why it happened,” said NTSB board member Todd Inman. “And to recommend changes to prevent it from happening again.”
Laura Mueller is the first female race engineer in Formula 1 and one of the reforms Haas has made to their race operations team. At the US-based squad, German Mueller will collaborate with newcomer Esteban Ocon as one of two new race engineers. Carine Cridelich, the new head of strategy for Haas, will also be a woman. She was hired from Red Bull’s Racing Bulls squad and will begin work on March 1. As the individual who works most closely with drivers on the setup, operation, and performance of their cars, race engineers play a crucial role. On television broadcasts, their voices can be heard conversing with drivers. Ronan O’Hare, another inside hire and former performance engineer, will be Mueller’s opposite number on the vehicle of Ocon’s teammate, Oliver Bearman, a British rookie. Diversity in Formula One is growing, according to team principal Ayao Komatsu, but he also stated: “It’s not like I picked Laura because she’s female. We simply don’t give a damn; gender and nationality are irrelevant. Work, teamwork, and ability to maximize performance are what count, and Ronan and Laura, in my opinion, are the ideal candidates.” After identifying the race operations team’s shortcomings early last year, Komatsu, who was appointed team principal prior to the 2024 season, stated that he had sought to replace them. Among Haas’s adjustments are the hiring of a new chief racing engineer and sporting director, two roles that the low-budget team lacked last season. Francesco Nenci, the new chief race engineer, has F1 experience with Sauber and Toyota and most recently worked with Audi’s Dakar Rally program. The sporting director will be Mark Lowe, who was previously the manager of Haas’ operations team. “I felt the trackside team was one of the weakest areas last year, and the more the car became competitive that exposed it more,” Komatsu stated. “We had the fifth-fastest car the end of the year. However, we should have placed sixth [in the constructors’ championship] based on our execution, but we didn’t. “We left too many points from the trackside operation on the table, which contributed to the problem. I sorely needed a boost. Frenchwoman Cridelich follows other female strategy leaders, such as Red Bull’s main strategy engineer, Hannah Schmitz. Former Sauber and Aston Martin employees Ruth Buscombe and Bernie Collins have now pursued careers in radio. Haas has a distinct organizational structure because of their collaboration with Ferrari, which reduces their internal activities as much as feasible. Haas designs solely the chassis and aerodynamic surfaces for their car, employs Ferrari’s wind tunnel, and has a design staff in Maranello, Italy, where they purchase almost all of the parts allowed by Ferrari’s regulations. The race team operates out of a small factory in Banbury, Oxfordshire, although their headquarters are in Kannapolis, North Carolina. According to Komatsu, Haas will have enough money this year for the first time to meet F1’s budget cap. In order to maintain consistency with aerodynamic studies, they would also be sticking with last year’s design rather than utilizing Ferrari’s most recent modified front suspension. Komatsu stated that his goals were “set on consistency” after Haas finished seventh in the previous season, ahead of Racing Bulls, Williams, and Sauber. “In history with Haas across the years, I don’t think we have been competitive across the seasons in a similar manner,” he stated. He went on to say that his goal was to further enhance a team that, in his opinion, was “punching above its weight” given its restricted resources. “Who only has 300 people or operates out of this kind of building?” Komatsu uttered such words. “We couldn’t possibly be defeating Williams if they were playing to their full potential. I want to reach a point where we can defeat those individuals based just on merit without any mistakes being made.
The application period for Hudson Valley Community College’s presidential search closed on January 6, 2025, marking progress in the process led by RH Perry & Associates following the dismissal of former president Roger Ramsammy. The presidential search follows Ramsammy’s termination after allegations of misconduct. Ram Sammy, who denies the claims, had a long career in higher education before his dismissal in 2024. Senior consultants Gena Glickman and Kevin Cavanagh are in charge of the recruitment. The ideal candidate must hold a doctorate or terminal degree, have teaching experience, and demonstrate leadership in student success initiatives, workforce development, and community engagement. RH Perry also draws attention to the need for a president who understands the unique challenges of community colleges, can maintain strong relationships with SUNY leadership, and will maintain a strong campus presence. More than 70 candidates have applied, including Rensselaer County Executive Steve McLaughlin, who is also seeking a congressional nomination. McLaughlin’s application is unconventional since he lacks a doctorate or teaching experience. However, he points out his MBA in finance, experience in government, and involvement in workforce development. His supporters argue that his leadership skills and union negotiation experience could benefit HVCC, especially if the college moves toward a more job-oriented focus. HVCC is one of the largest community colleges in the SUNY system and serves over 10,000 students through degree programs, workforce training, and online education. The search committee, composed of trustees, faculty, and community members, will soon receive the candidate list and select finalists. The SUNY chancellor will interview the top three candidates before the SUNY Board of Trustees makes a final decision. The selection process typically takes 10 months to a year, and HVCC, SUNY officials, and RH Perry & Associates are all working hard to find a leader who will guide the school toward continued success in both academics and workforce development.
Middle: Steve Mclaughlin Photo credits: Lori van Buren/times union
Taylor Swift’s Eras Tour has reshaped the music industry and unprecedentedly boosted the economy. While the music and spectacle are remarkable, the numbers speak louder, with an estimated $2.2 billion in North American ticket sales and a projected $5 billion in consumer spending in the U.S. alone. These figures position the tour as a defining moment in both entertainment and economic impact. By the time the tour concludes in Vancouver in December 2024, it is expected to break Elton John’s record of $939 million in gross earnings, becoming the highest-grossing tour in history. But the financial impact goes far beyond ticket sales. Local economies have thrived in cities hosting the tour. Illinois Governor J.B. Pritzker credited Swift with breaking Chicago’s hotel revenue record after her three-night stay. California estimated a $320 million GDP boost in Los Angeles from her six sold-out shows. The Federal Reserve even mentioned Swift in its Beige Book, noting her concerts contributed to Philadelphia’s strongest hotel revenue month since the pandemic. These effects rival the economic impact of hosting the Super Bowl, a comparison reinforced by Dan Fleetwood of QuestionPro Re search: “If Taylor Swift were an economy, she’d be bigger than 50 countries.” Fans, known as Swifties, are spending big. A national study revealed they spend an average of $1,300 per concert, covering tickets, travel, outfits, and merchandise. Local businesses have seen increased spending, from hotels to restaurants to boutiques selling concert attire. In Glendale, Arizona, the opening night of the tour generated more revenue for local businesses than Super Bowl LVII, held in the same stadium. However, some experts question the long-term benefits. Victor Matheson, an economics professor, explained that much of the money goes directly to Swift and her team, not local economies. He argued, “When you spend money on concert tickets and merchandise, that is money that doesn’t tick in the local economies. It goes home with the artist.” While restaurants and hotels see short-term boosts, this often replaces spending that would have occurred over a longer period. Despite the debate, Swift’s tour has created cultural and economic ripples. From Minneapolis renaming itself “Swiftie-apolis” to New Jersey’s governor declaring a state sandwich in her honor, her influence is unmatched. Internationally, cities like Tokyo, Edinburgh, and Mexico City have experienced similar boosts, with sold-out hotels and increased spending surrounding her performances. Even businesses outside the concert venues have felt the impact. Swift’s mention of “friendship bracelets” in her song “You’re On Your Own, Kid” has sparked a beading craze, with local shops reporting shortages of beads and sequins. Additionally, fans are clamoring for her physical albums, turning vinyl and CDs into collectibles. Job creation has been another no table effect. Each show requires a vast workforce, from stage crews to hospitality staff. The Wall Street Journal reported a 1,000% increase in demand for hourly workers near Swift’s Gillette Stadium shows. Swift’s timing also played a role. Coming after the COVID-19 pandemic, when personal savings hit record highs and the tourism industry struggled, her tour revived spending habits. Fans proved willing to use their pandemic savings on once-in-a-lifetime experiences, proving that there is a broader consumer trend toward valuing shared cultural moments. Ultimately, Swift’s Eras Tour transcends the typical concert experience. It has sparked debates on economic benefits, showcased the power of fandom, and united millions worldwide. As Victor Matheson concluded, “She is generating and providing happiness, and people are willing to pay any amount for that. There is value in that, too.” Whether or not every dollar spent sticks in local economies, the Eras Tour’s legacy is undeniable. Love her or hate her, Taylor Swift isn’t just performing music, she’s making history
Christian Rasmussen || Issue 10 || December 3rd, 2024
As the temperatures drop and the winter season draws near, winter sport enthusiasts are eager to get back on the mountains for their skiing season. However, with little snowfall, there are some questions as to when the popular Capital Region resorts will begin to open back up. Most ski resorts are anticipating to reopen their slopes in the first or second week of December, as rumors of snow begin to grow. You can find the specifics for each resort listed below! Reopenings: Royal Mountain Ski Area Anticipated December 8th or 9th. Whiteface Mountain – Open West Mountain – December 7th. Jiminy Peak – Anticipated December 7th Hunter Mountain – Open Windham Mountain – Open Belleayre Mountain – Opened: November 22nd. Gore Mountain – Open Willard Mountain – To be announced Catamount Mountain – To be announced Maple Ski Ridge – To be announced Some of these ski resorts have opened their doors to their gift shops and some have even already opened some slopes for snowboarders and skiers. A lot of these mountains have begun their snowmaking processes, where they create artificial snow to help the skiers and snowboarders get to the fun quicker than awaiting natural snowfall. Skiing and snowboarding are among the top favorites of winter sports, and fans are hyped-up for the re-opening of Capital Region ski resorts.
Ahmed Abed, 43, a Cornell custodian, has been charged with second-degree murder. In a criminal complaint submitted to Ithaca City Court, Ithaca police claimed to have slain Alaa Husein Jeena Abedi early on Monday morning in his residence on South Plain Street. The attack is still being looked at by police. Abed reportedly smashed Abedi’s head with a cinderblock while she was sleeping, then stabbed her to death. Abed is listed as a custodian at the Humphreys Service Building in Cornell’s staff directory. Eleven years ago, his employee profile was made. The Ithaca Police Department named Abed and his suspected conduct in a press release issued on Tuesday. City Judge Seth Peacock remanded him to the Tompkins County Jail without posting bail. In its first press release issued Monday, IPD called the event “not a random act” and urged anybody with knowledge about the case, especially those who choose to remain anonymous, to get in touch. Information can be anonymously and privately sent using the Ithaca Police Department Tip Line form or by calling the police tip line at 607-330-0000.
Christian Rasmussen || Issue 10 || December 3rd, 2024
President Joe Biden, as of this week, has authorized Ukraine to use long range U.S. made missiles to assist in the conflict against Russia. The decision was made when Moscow deployed 50,000 troops in Kursk, a major city that the United States does not want to see Russia hold without bargaining in ‘peace talks. North Korean troops were deployed to Kursk, which sparked concern by the U.S. Government because their involvement may start a dangerous phase in the war. Scares of World War III are about, as Putin threatens Ukraine with nuclear attacks following this surprising involvement by the U.S. government and military. Ukrainian President Zelensky has responded to this U.S. aid by stating “The missiles will speak for themselves.” Russian President Vladimir Putin had stated previously that if threatened by U.S. missiles, they had the ability to resort to nuclear weapons. This would hypothetically cause the involvement of the United States and NATO, which would eventually lead to what many consider to be World War III. Ukraine, as of November 19, 2024, had fired their first round of six missiles to Russian military facilities. These were shot down by Russian counter offensives, and Putin responded by announcing they would update their nuclear doctrine. As previously stated by President Putin, the authorization of these missiles to be used by Ukrainian forces would be considered an act of war. As for the future of this conflict regarding U.S. involvement and the scare of World War III, many details remain unclear. The fear of a nuclear war is still at large, and there are hopes to see a peaceful end to this conflict during the transition of power in January.
In one of the most infamous cases of the 1990s, Erik and Lyle Menendez were convicted of brutally murdering their parents, Jose and Mary Louise Menendez, in their Beverly Hills home. The brothers, once seen as cold-blooded killers, have spent over three decades in prison. But now, with a new wave of evidence and public support, they are one step closer to freedom, awaiting a decision that could rewrite the final chapter of their controversial case. What started as a shocking double murder is now a fight for a second chance at life. The brothers have long maintained that they killed their parents in self-defense after years of sexual and physical abuse. The case has been the subject of intense media scrutiny, and their story gained further attention with the release of a popular Netflix documentary in 2022. In recent years, the Menendez brothers have been pushing for a new trial or a resentencing, claiming that crucial evidence about their abuse was not adequately considered during their original trial. On November 25, 2024, the brothers’ legal team argued before a judge that they should be freed, citing the impact of new evidence, including claims of long-term abuse that they say were ignored during their original trial. Their attorneys argue that, given the context of the abuse, a life sentence is no longer appropriate. As one of their lawyers, Mark Geragos, told reporters, “We have never had a more compelling case for resentencing.” The Menendez brothers’ first trial ended in a mistrial, and their second trial led to convictions for first-degree murder, with no possibility of parole. At the heart of their defense was the argument that they were not guilty of murder in the traditional sense, but were instead victims of a severe and ongoing trauma that led them to act out of fear for their lives. In recent years, several pieces of evidence have surfaced that were not available to their original legal team. Testimony from a psychiatrist, new court documents, and even a renewed focus on their family history paint a picture of deep abuse. According to the brothers’ legal team, this new evidence should be enough to allow for resentencing, as it could drastically alter how the brothers’ actions are understood under the law. The brothers have faced significant public scrutiny, particularly regarding their lavish lifestyles after their parents’ deaths. However, Erik and Lyle have maintained that they did not act out of greed, but out of a desperate need to escape their parents’ control. Lyle Menendez stated in a 2023 interview that the murders were “the only way we could get away from the abuse.” A major factor in the on going legal battle is the question of whether the brothers will ever be resentenced. Currently, they are serving life sentences without the possibility of parole, but there are a few paths to freedom they are exploring. One possibility is through California’s legal system, where judges have been open to reexamining sentences in light of new information. Another potential avenue is through executive clemency, in which the governor could decide to commute their sentences. The Menendez brothers’ case has sparked widespread debate, particularly on social media, where supporters have argued that they deserve a second chance. Celebrities like Kim Kardashian and high-profile figures in the legal community have voiced their support for the brothers’ release, suggesting that the original trial was unfair and that they should be given another chance to show that they are rehabilitated. Despite this, the prosecution remains adamant that the murders were premeditated and that no amount of abuse could justify the killings. Critics argue that the Menendez brothers, despite their traumatic past, should not be absolved of responsibility for their actions. As legal scholar Laurie Levenson put it, “The evidence may show they were abused, but it doesn’t change the fact that they killed their parents.” As the Menendez brothers await a ruling on their fate, their supporters and detractors continue to debate whether justice has been served. The decision could have far-reaching implications, not just for the Menendez family but for the broader legal understanding of self-defense, abuse, and justice. For now, the brothers’ future remains in limbo, as the court weighs their fate. The case continues to raise important questions about how the justice system handles cases of childhood trauma, and whether the Menendez brothers will ever be allowed the chance to start over.
Photo Credits: California department of Corrections rehabilitation/ AP via CNN Newsource
The Hudsonian 