Closure Gates Keep Drivers Off I-81 During Emergencies

Road closure gates at four northern Oswego County entrances to Interstate 81 have been installed to block traffic from entering during emergencies. The gates will keep drivers off the roads so emergency responders can get through.  Carl Ford, State Dept. of Transportation Regional Director, said the gates are located at Exits 34, 35, 36 and 37. The new gates are part of a pilot program that may be expanded to include more I-81 entrances.

House Votes Cancelled Until Feb. 22nd

The House of Representatives has cancelled all votes for the rest of the week due to a snowstorm headed for Washington, D.C. This means the House will not reconvene until Feb. 22 due to the President's Day recess. Steny Hoyer, House Majority Leader, says the House will add two days to it's schedule to make up the missed sessions. 

Angelina Jolie Plans Trip to Haiti 

Angela Jolie is planning a visit to Haiti as a goodwill ambassador for the UN's refugee agency. A UNHCR spokesperson said she is scheduled to fly to Haiti this afternoon. The actress has already donated $1 million to Doctors Without Borders for the earthquake relief effort.