Branden has been a journalist for more than 15 years, working in newsrooms around Central New York, Western New York and the Capital District, where he covered urban crime and political news for Albany's WRGB. During his career, he's served as the New York State Television Chair for the National Press Photographers Association (TVQCC) and has won numerous awards for his video journalism. Prior to joining the WIBX Newsroom, Branden worked with Governor David Paterson's 2010 campaign for Governor. A Mohawk Valley native, Branden enjoys covering Utica politics and public safety issues. You can hear him Saturday mornings from 6-9 on WIBX 950AM.
Branden Block
As 2012 Ends, CNY Drivers Face Record High Gas Prices
Utica, NY (WIBX) - As 2012 comes to an end, drivers around Central New York are facing the highest gas price ever. According to AAA's Ed Welsh, we're closing out the year 23 cents higher than the old record high of last year. "Sadly, I don't think the price is going to go back down" Welsh said, adding that "If the pattern follows what it did last year, the end of the year price was
3 Utica Teens Arrested For Armed Robbery
Utica, NY (WIBX) - Utica Police arrested 3 Utica teens for their alleged involvement in an armed robbery that happened near Francis and Oswego Streets.
According to authorities, the teens, 19-year old Devin Freeman, 19-year old Terrick Spratt and an unnamed 15-year old stole the man's I-pod, cell phone, some clothing and $2 in cash...
Overnight Parking Ban in Effect for Utica, New Hartford
Utica, NY (WIBX) - The City of Utica has declared a snow emergency. There can be no parking on city streets beginning at 10:00 p.m. Any car parked on the street after that time is subject to being ticketed and/or being towed. The snow emergency will remain in effect until further notice...
Syracuse Wins Pinstripe Bowl, Beats Old Rival
Bronx, NY (WIBX) - Prince-Tyson Gulley had two touchdowns on the ground and one receiving as Syracuse pounded West Virginia, 38-14, in the New Era Pinstripe Bowl at Yankee Stadium. Gulley finished the game with 215 yards on 26 carries along with five catches for 50 yards, while Jerome Smith carried the ball 29 times for 158 yards in the win...
Val Bialas Ski Center in Utica Set to Open
Utica, NY (WIBX) - The Val Bialas Ski Center in Utica is set to open on December 27th, featuring free sledding and fun in the Terrain Park, with ice skating possibly by New Year's Eve. Val Bialas is located on Memorial Parkway in the City of Utica and is open from noon til 5 PM...
Cuomo Prepares for Storm, Warns Utility Companies
Albany, NY (WIBX) - Governor Cuomo has activated the State Emergency Operations Center to monitor the storm and any emergency needs that may occur. Representatives from state agencies such as the State Police, the State DOT, the Thruway Authority and the Department of Health are all on hand to coordinate storm response efforts...
Birnie Bus Service Cancels Runs Due to Bad Weather
Rome, NY (WIBX) - The bad weather has cancelled Birnie Bus Service's "4-County Line Run" for tomorrow December 27th . That service transports riders to points in between Little Falls and downtown Syracuse. According to Birnie Bus Supervisor Bill Egan, the bus picks up more than 100 passengers throughout the counties of Herkimer, Oneida, Madison and Onondaga...
Utica’s Uptown Theatre to Stop Showing 35mm Films
Utica, NY (WIBX) - After 85 years of showing 35mm films, the Utica Uptown Theatre will be screening their last large format print this weekend. According the Uptown Theatre's Facebook page, a lack of attendance and community support are to blame...
Valley Municipalities Issue Snow Emergencies, Parking Restrictions
Mohawk, NY (WIBX) - Mohawk Mayor Jim Baron has declared a snow emergency for the Village effective at 9 PM December 26th. All parked vehicles need to be off Village streets until further notice or risk being towed at the owner's expense...
National TV Show Features County’s “Scared Straight” Program
Oriskany, NY (WIBX) Later this week, Oneida County's "Scared Straight" program will be featured on the National TV show "Beyond Scared Straight", airing on the A & E Network.
According to Oneida County Sheriff Rob Maciol, the episode will include several local participants going through the program at the county jail.
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