Breaking news reporter for @usatoday Mama, #Marathoner, rower, runner, swimmer @penn_state grad 🌊 @rocnewsguild @dandc
vfreile@gannett.com
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Articles by Victoria Freile
New York's Adirondacks named the best place in the US for fall foliage
New York is known for its stunning fall foliage and vibrant autumn colors, so it may come as no surprise that one New York region topped a recent list of the best places in the country to see fall foliage. Priceline recently released a list of the 10 best destinations for autumn leaf-peeping, based on an analysis of hotel searches for fall 2026. New York's Adirondack region ranked No. 1 and was the only destination in the state to make the list.
New York's Adirondacks named the best place in the US for fall foliage
New York is known for its stunning fall foliage and vibrant autumn colors, so it may come as no surprise that one New York region topped a recent list of the best places in the country to see fall foliage. Priceline recently released a list of the 10 best destinations for autumn leaf-peeping, based on an analysis of hotel searches for fall 2026. New York's Adirondack region ranked No. 1 and was the only destination in the state to make the list.
First snow of the season possible in New York this weekend. See where
Follow First snow of the season possible in New York this weekend. See where Victoria E. Freile, New York Connect Team Updated Sat, October 17, 2026 at 9:52 AM EDT First snow of the season possible in New York this weekend. See where Parts of New York could see their first snowfall of the season this weekend, according to AccuWeather and the National Weather Service.
First snow of the season possible in New York this weekend. See where
New York could see its first snowflakes of the season this weekend. See where snow is possible and when cities typically get their first measurable snowfall. Parts of New York could see their first snowfall of the season this weekend, according to AccuWeather and the National Weather Service. A record-breaking warm-up followed by a sharp cooldown across much of the central and eastern United States is expected to create a "weather whiplash" effect this week.
Why are people protesting in New York today? What to know about 'No Kings' rallies
Groups behind the "No Kings" protests will hold a nationwide day of action today aimed to encourage voter turnout. The No Kings Coalition organized a day of coordinated efforts to encourage people to vote early. While protesters have previously taken to the streets under the "No Kings" name, organizers say this event is designed to help communities make plans to vote and to encourage people to cast their ballots before Election Day whenever possible.
Why are people protesting in New York today? What to know about 'No Kings' rallies
Groups behind the "No Kings" protests will hold a nationwide day of action today aimed to encourage voter turnout. The No Kings Coalition organized a day of coordinated efforts to encourage people to vote early. While protesters have previously taken to the streets under the "No Kings" name, organizers say this event is designed to help communities make plans to vote and to encourage people to cast their ballots before Election Day whenever possible.
Why are 'No Kings' events happening across New York today? What to know
Groups behind the "No Kings" protests will hold a nationwide day of action today aimed to encourage voter turnout.
When to see peak fall foliage in Hudson Valley, New York state
Oct. 16, 2026, 11:39 a.m. ET When is the best time for leaf peeping in the Empire State? In short - it depends on your location. Here is what to know: First fall colors The earliest seasonal hues appear at New York's highest elevations, typically in northern New York - including the Adirondack region. The Catskills and parts of the Hudson Valley typically follow next.
When to see peak fall foliage in Hudson Valley, New York state Original
Oct. 16, 2026, 11:34 a.m. ET When is the best time for leaf peeping in the Empire State? In short - it depends on your location. Here is what to know: First fall colors The earliest seasonal hues appear at New York's highest elevations, typically in northern New York - including the Adirondack region. The Catskills and parts of the Hudson Valley typically follow next.
Infant girl found dead at New York waste facility: What to know
Police on Thursday released more details about the investigation into the body of an infant found in a sorting area at the Oneida-Herkimer Solid Waste Authority facility in Utica, New York. The landfill is located in the Town of Ava in Oneida County, about 30 miles north of Utica. Utica police officers were called to the Waste Authority’s Eastern Transfer Station, at 824 Sewage Road, around 11:40 a.m. Wednesday, Oct.
Infant girl found dead at New York waste facility: What to know
Follow Infant girl found dead at New York waste facility: What to know Victoria E. Freile, New York Connect Team Updated Fri, October 16, 2026 at 5:59 AM EDT Infant girl found dead at New York waste facility: What to know Police on Thursday released more details about the investigation into the body of an infant found in a sorting area at the Oneida-Herkimer Solid Waste Authority facility in Utica, New York.
Best fall day trips in NY: 6 places for foliage and scenic views
Whether you're looking for colorful hikes, charming small towns or waterfront views, these six destinations make ideal autumn day trips. The air is crisp, the leaves are changing to vibrant shades of red, orange and yellow, and wanderlust is strong. New Yorkers are looking to get outside and enjoy the vibrant foliage and flavors of the autumn season. What better motivation than a daylong road trip to a new destination or a favorite stomping ground?
New York City tops Tripadvisor's best U.S. destinations for 2026
New York City has topped Tripadvisor's 2026 list of the best destinations in the nation. The Travelers' Choice Awards Best of the Best 2026 were revealed this week, highlighting travelers' favorite destinations, hotels, restaurants and things to do across the U.S. and around the world. The rankings are based on reviews and ratings collected over a 12-month period.
New York City tops Tripadvisor's best U.S. destinations for 2026
New York City has topped Tripadvisor's 2026 list of the best destinations in the nation. The Travelers' Choice Awards Best of the Best 2026 were revealed this week, highlighting travelers' favorite destinations, hotels, restaurants and things to do across the U.S. and around the world. The rankings are based on reviews and ratings collected over a 12-month period. Here's how New York fared on this year's list:
Where are New York's 'No Kings' events? See Oct. 17 locations statewide Original
Organizers behind the "No Kings" protests will hold a nationwide day of action on Saturday focused on encouraging voter participation ahead of the November midterm elections. The nokings.org is organizing events to encourage people to make plans to vote early. While previous "No Kings" events have featured protests and rallies, organizers say the Oct. 17 effort will focus on helping communities prepare to cast their ballots before Election Day.
Dollar General donating $1.875M in goods to Foodlink after NY probe
Follow Dollar General donating $1.875M in goods to Foodlink after NY probe Victoria E. Freile, New York Connect Team Updated Fri, October 16, 2026 at 5:12 AM EDT Dollar General donating $1.875M in goods to Foodlink after NY probe New York Attorney General Letitia James announced a $1.875 million settlement with Dollar General after an investigation found the retailer routinely overcharged customers at its stores.
When to see peak fall foliage in Hudson Valley, New York state
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Man shot to death in Rochester parking lot identified
Follow Man shot to death in Rochester parking lot identified Victoria E. Freile, New York Connect Team Updated Thu, October 15, 2026 at 3:07 PM EDT Rochester police have identified the man who was shot to death Wednesday night in a parking lot on Webster Avenue in Rochester. Fatal shooting on Webster Avenue The shooting occurred around 8:30 p.m. on Oct. 14 in the parking lot of a corner store at 238 Webster Ave., police said.
One dead after rollover crash in Greece
Follow One dead after rollover crash in Greece Victoria E. Freile, New York Connect Team Updated Thu, October 15, 2026 at 2:49 PM EDT One person died after a single-vehicle rollover crash in Greece on Wednesday morning, police said. One person dies after vehicle overturns The crash occurred around 9:35 a.m. at the intersection of Ridgeway Avenue and Latona Road, just east of Route 390, according to Greece police. Ridge Road firefighters removed one person from the vehicle.
SUNY Brockport students, faculty rally after employee detained by ICE
Dozens of State University of New York at Brockport students and faculty gathered outside the student union Thursday for a rally in support of a university employee who was taken into custody by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement. German Machado Guillen, an IT technician at SUNY Brockport, was detained Tuesday morning in front of his home as he was preparing to leave for work, his wife, Maria Velázquez, said in a news release from United University Professions.
Driver killed in New York crash after pickup hits trees, police say
Follow Driver killed in New York crash after pickup hits trees, police say Victoria E. Freile, New York Connect Team Updated Thu, October 15, 2026 at 11:18 AM EDT A motorist was killed Saturday in a one-vehicle crash on Skaneateles Turnpike in Brookfield, Madison County, State Police said. Pickup truck crashes down embankment The crash occurred around 4:20 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 10, according to New York State Police.
Costco has new canvas tote bags. How much do they cost?
Costco has new canvas tote bags in the US. See how much they cost, what sizes are available and where to buy the bags. Look out, Trader Joe’s — Costco has entered the tote bag arena. The wholesale retailer recently introduced two new heavy-duty canvas tote bags in the United States, adding to the growing popularity of branded grocery bags. Costco’s cream-colored totes feature the “Costco Wholesale” logo and black or red accents.
New details released after infant's body found at NY waste facility
Follow New details released after infant's body found at NY waste facility Victoria E. Freile, New York Connect Team Updated Thu, October 15, 2026 at 10:41 AM EDT New details released after infant's body found at NY waste facility Police on Thursday released more details about the investigation into the body of an infant found in a sorting area at the Oneida-Herkimer Solid Waste Authority facility in Utica, Oneida County.
NY farm tractor crash leaves man without hand, injures 2 others
Follow NY farm tractor crash leaves man without hand, injures 2 others Victoria E. Freile, New York Connect Team Updated Thu, October 15, 2026 at 10:09 AM EDT NY farm tractor crash leaves man without hand, injures 2 others A 70-year-old man lost his hand after being seriously injured in a farm tractor and hay wagon crash over the weekend in Chenango County, according to New York State Police.
Fall foliage in New York: See where colors will peak this weekend
Peak fall foliage is expected across parts of New York this weekend, with the Catskills reaching peak color and expected to display some of the state's best autumn scenery. Bright reds, oranges and golden yellows continue to emerge across the state, with pockets of peak or near-peak foliage in Central and Western New York, parts of the Hudson Valley and the Capital Region. While vibrant colors remain in parts of the Adirondacks, much of the region is past peak.
Mid-Hudson residents, how much snow will New York get this winter? Original
Oct. 15, 2026, 9:54 a.m. ET A warmer-than-normal winter may be ahead for New York, according to the latest seasonal outlook from the National Weather Service's Climate Prediction Center. Here is what you need to know: The Weather Service's seasonal outlook through March 2027 shows New York leaning toward above-normal temperatures. AccuWeather meteorologists have not yet issued their long-range winter forecast, but they have predicted an unusually warm start to fall in New York.
Motorcyclist dies in Livingston County crash
Follow Motorcyclist dies in Livingston County crash Victoria E. Freile, New York Connect Team Updated Thu, October 15, 2026 at 9:17 AM EDT Motorcyclist dies in Livingston County crash A 55-year-old man from Le Roy was killed in a motorcycle crash in Lima, Livingston County, over the weekend, according to the Livingston County Sheriff's Office. Motorcyclist killed in Lima crash William Edwards, 55, was riding east on East Main Street near the village of Lima line around 6:30 p.m. Saturday, Oct.
Social Security COLA for 2027 announced: Here's how much bigger your check could be
The figures are in: Millions of Americans will receive larger monthly Social Security payments next year. The Social Security Administration announced Wednesday that Social Security beneficiaries will receive a 3.6% cost-of-living adjustment, or COLA, in 2027. The increase will affect more than 76 million retirees, disabled workers and other beneficiaries.
Social Security COLA for 2027 announced: Here's how much bigger your check could be
The figures are in: Millions of Americans will receive larger monthly Social Security payments next year. The Social Security Administration announced Wednesday that Social Security beneficiaries will receive a 3.6% cost-of-living adjustment, or COLA, in 2027. The increase will affect more than 76 million retirees, disabled workers and other beneficiaries.
View New York fall foliage on these scenic trains Original
Looking for a different vantage point to view New York's stunning fall foliage? Consider a scenic railroad ride, perhaps even on a steam train. Board a train, sit back and watch spectacular fall scenery pass by. Here are five options in New York state that offer scenic fall foliage train rides - as well as some other fun seasonal options for families or adults - through late October. Schedules and prices vary by location.
10 lakes where you can fish year-round, including Lake Erie Original
New York anglers looking to fish beyond the traditional warm-weather season may already have a year-round option close to home. WorldAtlas recently identified 10 lakes across the United States where fishing is permitted year-round, including New York's waters of Lake Erie. Lake Erie borders New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Michigan and Ontario, Canada. According to the Great Lakes Commission, it is the shallowest, warmest and southernmost of the five Great Lakes.
New York could see its first snowfall of the season this weekend. Here's where
Follow New York could see its first snowfall of the season this weekend. Here's where Victoria E. Freile, New York Connect Team Updated Thu, October 15, 2026 at 5:00 AM EDT New York could see its first snowfall of the season this weekend. Here's where Parts of New York could see their first snowfall of the season this weekend, according to AccuWeather and the National Weather Service.
‘No Kings’ events planned across New York. See when and where
Later this week, organizers behind the "No Kings" protests will hold a nationwide day of action focused on encouraging voter participation ahead of the November midterm elections. The nokings.org is organizing events to encourage people to make plans to vote early. While previous "No Kings" events have featured protests and rallies, organizers say the Oct. 17 effort will focus on helping communities prepare to cast their ballots before Election Day.
Do clocks fall back this weekend? Here's when daylight saving time ends
The debate over ending the twice-yearly clock changes is back in the spotlight in Washington, but New Yorkers will still need to turn their clocks back this fall. Daylight saving time is scheduled to end Sunday, Nov. 1, 2026, when clocks across most of the United States move back one hour and standard time resumes. The U.S. House approved legislation in July that would make daylight saving time permanent, but the bill still awaits Senate action.
Do clocks fall back this weekend? Here's when daylight saving time ends
The debate over ending the twice-yearly clock changes is back in the spotlight in Washington, but New Yorkers will still need to turn their clocks back this fall. Daylight saving time is scheduled to end Sunday, Nov. 1, 2026, when clocks across most of the United States move back one hour and standard time resumes. The U.S. House approved legislation in July that would make daylight saving time permanent, but the bill still awaits Senate action.
Deceased infant found at upstate NY waste facility; investigation underway
Follow Deceased infant found at upstate NY waste facility; investigation underway Victoria E. Freile, New York Connect Team Updated Thu, October 15, 2026 at 4:44 AM EDT Deceased infant found at upstate NY waste facility; investigation underway A deceased infant was found Wednesday inside a sorting area at the Oneida-Herkimer Solid Waste Authority facility in Utica, New York, according to police. The landfill is located in the Town of Ava in Oneida County, about 30 miles north of Utica.
Deceased infant found at upstate NY waste facility; investigation underway
A deceased infant was found Wednesday inside a sorting area at the Oneida-Herkimer Solid Waste Authority facility in Utica, New York, according to police. The landfill is located in the Town of Ava in Oneida County, about 30 miles north of Utica. Utica police officers were dispatched to 824 Sewage Road at approximately 11:40 a.m. Oct. 14 after staff members reported finding the infant in the facility's sorting area, police said.
Man shot, killed in Rochester parking lot; no suspects in custody
Follow Man shot, killed in Rochester parking lot; no suspects in custody Victoria E. Freile, New York Connect Team Updated Thu, October 15, 2026 at 4:43 AM EDT Deceased infant found at upstate NY waste facility; investigation underway A man in his 30s was shot and killed Wednesday night in a parking lot on Webster Avenue in Rochester, according to the Rochester Police Department. Fatal shooting on Webster Avenue The shooting occurred around 8:30 p.m. Oct.
Powerball winning numbers for Wednesday, Oct. 14, 2026
Follow Powerball winning numbers for Wednesday, Oct. 14, 2026 Victoria E. Freile, New York Connect Team Wed, October 14, 2026 at 8:00 PM EDT Powerball winning numbers for Wednesday, Oct. 14, 2026 The Powerball jackpot for the Wednesday, Oct. 14 drawing was an estimated $562 million with a cash option of $230.4 million, according to the Powerball website. Powerball winning numbers for Wednesday, Oct. 14, 2026 The Powerball winning numbers for Wednesday, Oct. 14 will be posted after the drawing.
Man killed in Thruway crash in Westchester County identified Original
A Long Island man died Monday in a two-vehicle crash on the New York State Thruway in Port Chester, Westchester County, according to State Police. The crash occurred shortly before 6 a.m. Monday, Oct. 12, on the northbound lanes of Interstate 95, which is part of the Thruway, near mile marker 14.8 in Port Chester, according to State Police.
Woman, 12-year-old accused of trying to steal car at Rochester airport
Follow Woman, 12-year-old accused of trying to steal car at Rochester airport Victoria E. Freile, New York Connect Team Updated Wed, October 14, 2026 at 6:32 PM EDT Woman, 12-year-old accused of trying to steal car at Rochester airport Monroe County sheriff's deputies arrested a woman and a 12-year-old boy accused of attempting to steal a vehicle in a parking lot at Greater Rochester International Airport.
Police identify 2 drivers killed in fiery crashes on Long Island parkway Original
New York State Police have identified the two drivers killed in separate fiery crashes last month at the Sunken Meadow State Parkway toll booth area in Suffolk County on Long Island. The most recent fatal crash occurred shortly after 1 p.m. Monday, Sept. 21, according to State Police. The first fatal crash happened around 11:15 a.m. Monday, Sept. 14.
2027 COLA means bigger Social Security boosts for Californians
About 6.9 million Californians on Social Security and 1.1 million SSI recipients will see benefits rise 3.6% in 2027. More than 1 million Californians who receive Supplemental Security Income, along with millions of Social Security beneficiaries statewide, will soon learn how much their monthly checks could increase in 2027. The Social Security Administration is expected to announce its annual cost-of-living adjustment, or COLA, on Wednesday, Oct.
2027 COLA means bigger Social Security boosts for Californians
More than 1 million Californians who receive Supplemental Security Income, along with millions of Social Security beneficiaries statewide, will soon learn how much their monthly checks could increase in 2027. The Social Security Administration is expected to announce its annual cost-of-living adjustment, or COLA, on Wednesday, Oct. 14, providing a key look at how benefits may keep pace with inflation next year. How is the Social Security COLA calculated?
2027 COLA means bigger Social Security boosts for Californians
More than 1 million Californians who receive Supplemental Security Income, along with millions of Social Security beneficiaries statewide, will soon learn how much their monthly checks could increase in 2027. The Social Security Administration is expected to announce its annual cost-of-living adjustment, or COLA, on Wednesday, Oct. 14, providing a key look at how benefits may keep pace with inflation next year. How is the Social Security COLA calculated?
2027 COLA means bigger Social Security boosts for Californians
More than 1 million Californians who receive Supplemental Security Income, along with millions of Social Security beneficiaries statewide, will soon learn how much their monthly checks could increase in 2027. The Social Security Administration is expected to announce its annual cost-of-living adjustment, or COLA, on Wednesday, Oct. 14, providing a key look at how benefits may keep pace with inflation next year. How is the Social Security COLA calculated?
Social Security benefits to increase 3.6% in 2027. See how much more you'll get
The figures are in: Millions of Americans will receive larger monthly Social Security payments next year. The Social Security Administration announced Wednesday that Social Security beneficiaries will receive a 3.6% cost-of-living adjustment, or COLA, in 2027. The increase will affect more than 76 million retirees, disabled workers and other beneficiaries.
Popular frozen pizza sold at Walmart, Tops discontinued nationwide
Conagra Brands has stopped making Celeste frozen pizzas as it shifts resources toward brands with greater growth potential. Remaining inventory will be sold until supplies run out. A Chicago-based food manufacturer has discontinued a popular frozen pizza brand sold at Walmart, Tops Friendly Markets and other retailers across the country. Conagra Brands, the maker of Celeste frozen pizzas, has stopped producing the pies, company President and CEO John Brase announced Sept.
Man struck, killed in Rochester identified
Follow Man struck, killed in Rochester identified Victoria E. Freile, New York Connect Team Updated Wed, October 14, 2026 at 11:12 AM EDT Rochester police have identified the 47-year-old man who was struck and killed by a vehicle on Lake Avenue Tuesday night. Pedestrian killed on Lake Avenue identified Benjamin Hoyt, 47, of Rochester, died at the scene after being struck by a northbound vehicle around 8 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 13, on Lake Avenue near Clay Avenue, said Capt.
SUNY Brockport employee detained by ICE in Batavia. What we know now
A State University College at Brockport employee was taken into custody by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents outside his Batavia home Tuesday morning, according to United University Professions, the union representing SUNY faculty and professional staff.
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