Local News Recap from WNBF: November 4, 2025
Each week, WNBF provides a brief summary of the local and regional news stories covered by our sister radio stations, 1290 AM, 92. 1 FM, and 93. 9 FM. Here are some of the top stories from the week of November 4, 2025, as reported by Bob Joseph, Don Morgan, and the Townsquare Media staff.
Court Street House Being Replaced by Parking Lot
The historic 19th-century house located at 188 Court Street in downtown Binghamton is being torn down to make way for a new parking lot. After being purchased by Vestal company FGR Realty in 2023, the house has now been demolished to provide additional parking for a neighboring office building. Despite opposition from the Preservation Association of the Southern Tier, the structure’s 140-year history has come to an end.
Broome County Offers Emergency Food Aid to Residents
In response to the federal government’s suspension of Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program benefits, Broome County has declared a State of Emergency. Sheriff Akshar has reallocated $200,000 from a trust account to purchase emergency food for local pantries, providing much-needed assistance to those affected by the suspension.
BGM Airport’s Massive Modernization Project Completed
After months of construction, the Greater Binghamton Airport’s major renovation project has finally come to an end. Mark Heefner, Broome County’s aviation commissioner, has stated that the modernization job is “substantially complete. ” The total cost of the project, which was primarily funded by state and federal funds, is estimated to be around $52 million. The airport, which was first opened in 1951, has undergone a major transformation, with many local workers involved in the renovations.
Celebrating Veterans Day in the Southern Tier
As Veterans Day approaches, the Southern Tier is gearing up to honor and celebrate our veterans. The fifth anniversary of Operation Green Light, a nationwide initiative that encourages residents and businesses to shine green lights in support of America’s veterans, will be celebrated in Broome County. Additionally, residents and businesses are encouraged to show their support by lighting their homes and buildings green until November 11th.
Binghamton Mayor to Select New Police Chief
With his recent re-election, Binghamton Mayor Jared Kraham is now tasked with choosing a new police chief. Kraham has stated that he is preparing to interview four prospective candidates for the position, as the previous chief, Joseph Zikuski, retired following questions surrounding his girlfriend’s arrest. All four police department veterans on the Civil Service list have expressed interest in the job.
Trouble at Historic Strand Theater
Emergency crews were called to the abandoned Strand Theater in downtown Binghamton to extinguish a fire that had been set on the second floor of the building. Fortunately, the small fire was quickly extinguished and no damage was reported.