Governor David A. Paterson has directed that flags on State government buildings be flown at half-staff on Wednesday, March 10, in honor of Niagara Falls native Army Specialist Alan Dikcis who was killed in Afghanistan on Friday, March 5. Specialist Dikcis was killed when his vehicle was struck by an improvised explosive device in Kandahar. He was assigned to the 630th Engineer Company, 7th Engineer Battalion of the 20th Engineer Brigade, based at Fort Drum.

"On behalf all New Yorkers, I wish to express our deepest condolences to the family, friends and fellow soldiers of Specialist Alan Dikcis," Governor Paterson said. "Not only did Specialist Dikcis serve his country with deep commitment and courage, he did so with great honor and dignity. We regret his passing but we will forever remember and value his service in the cause of freedom."

Governor Paterson has directed the flags on all State buildings to be lowered to half-staff in honor and tribute to our State's service members who are killed in action or die in a combat zone.

Annual Bulk drop off program open to City Residents View the Flyer for Complete Details

The City of Watertown now offers an ACH Direct Debit Payment Plan for its water and sewer utility bills. This program is a convenient, free and easy program that will allow the City to electronically deduct the amount of water and sewer bills from customers' bank accounts on the due date.

The program will save customers time and money due to writing and mailing fewer checks as well as help them avoid late fees (pending adequate bank balances) regardless if they are on vacation or have moved to a warmer climate for the winter. The City is planning on offering the same payment option to its tote customers in the near future Click here for printable Enrollment form and FAQs