Syracuse Unemployment Hits a New High

Syracuse’s unemployment rate rose again in Jan. to 9.1 percent, its highest level since at least 1990, according to the Department of Labor.

The jobless rate for Madison, Onondaga and Oswego counties rose from 8.2 percent in Dec..

Unemployment rates before 1990 were calculated using a different methodology and cannot be compared, according to the state.

The survey also showed there were over 5,000 fewer jobs in the Syracuse area in January, compared to one year ago. The biggest loss of jobs occurred in the trade, transportation and utilities sector, which lost 2,300 jobs. The manufacturing sector also was also hit hard, cutting 2,200 factory jobs.

There is some good news for Syracuse. Syracuse’s unemployment rate is lower than both the national unemployment rate, 10.6 percent, and the state’s unemployment rate, 9.4 percent. There were also some sectors of the economy that gained jobs. Educational and health services created 1,200 jobs since January 2009.

For the full story click here.

Another top Paterson official resigns

Gov. David Paterson’s top spokesman resigned today in the midst of scandals surrounding the governor. The spokesman, Peter Kauffmann, is the third important official to leave Paterson’s administration as the governor faces two separate misconduct investigations.

Paterson was first investigated because of contact he had with a woman who made a domestic violence complaint against one of his aides.

The most recent investigation was started when it was learned Paterson sought out and obtained free World Series tickets. This is a violation of the state’s ban on giving gifts to officials, by organizations doing business with the state.

One of Paterson’s guests at the World Series was the same aide that was involved in the domestic violence case.

“As a former officer in the United States Navy, integrity and commitment to public service are values I take seriously,” Kauffmann said in a statement.

Kauffman helped the state Public Integrity Commission charge Paterson in the World Series ticket scandal. Kauffmann provided e-mails and testimony against Paterson.

Paterson insists he is innocent in both cases. Although many are calling for his resignation, Paterson says he will fight the charges and stay in office.

For the complete story click here.

Baylor basketball player suspended

Brittney Griner is making headlines again. Earlier in the year Griner was known for dunking twice in one game. But now, the news isn’t so uplifting.

The Baylor freshman will be suspended at least one game, and possibly more, after punching an opponent in the face. According to Big 12 rules, Griner is required to sit out one game for a “fighting act.” The game would be Baylor’s regular-season finale against Texas on Sunday.

Griner was also ejected from the game. Currently the Baylor Lady Bears are ranked 14 in the AP poll.

The Big 12 is discussing whether further action is warranted. Read the full story from ESPN.