Latest News
January 2, 2026
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Eight Finger Lakes Towns Highlighted for Weekend Getaways in 2026: The Finger Lakes region has been recognized as an accessible retreat for residents seeking a peaceful weekend close to home. The article identifies eight towns—including Penn Yan, Geneva, and Hammondsport—as top choices, each known for their unique offerings such as lakeside vistas, local wineries, and quaint downtown areas. Activities range from hiking scenic trails to exploring historic main streets and sampling regional wines. These destinations cater to visitors looking to unwind in a relaxed setting. (Source: Fingerlakes1.com on Jan 2)
December 25, 2025
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Finger Lakes Land Trust Reaches 35,000 Acres of Conserved Land in Region: The Finger Lakes Land Trust has surpassed 35,000 acres of conserved land throughout the Finger Lakes region, marking more than three decades of preservation efforts. Established in 1989, the organization has protected significant water resources, habitats, and trails across a 12-county area. Notable achievements include safeguarding over six miles of lakeshore and creating 55 miles of hiking trails. Recent initiatives feature new parklands and shoreline protections at Skaneateles, Cayuga, Keuka, and Honeoye lakes. (Source: Fingerlakes1.com on Dec 25)
December 20, 2025
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State Awards Over $21 Million for Sewer Upgrades in Cayuga and Varick: New York State has allocated more than $21 million to enhance sewer infrastructure in Cayuga County and the Town of Varick, aiming to modernize local systems and improve the health of Cayuga Lake. Cayuga County is set to receive $16.5 million for a new sewer district and upgrades at the Aurora Wastewater Treatment Plant, with service expansions in Ledyard and Genoa. Varick will use $5.3 million to establish a new sewer district on Route 89. These projects are expected to reduce pollution and address aging septic systems. (Source: Fingerlakes1.com on Dec 20)
December 16, 2025
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New York Enacts Law to Support Towns Affected by College Closures: New York Governor Kathy Hochul has signed legislation designed to support communities impacted by recent college closures, including towns such as Aurora. The law enables state assistance for workforce planning, property redevelopment, and economic revitalization. It was introduced following the shutdown of Cazenovia and Wells colleges and passed both legislative chambers unanimously. Lawmakers plan to further refine the bill’s language in 2026 based on the governor’s recommendations. (Source: Fingerlakes1.com on Dec 16)
December 10, 2025
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Finger Lakes Small Towns Recognized Nationally for Quality of Life and Charm: A recent national feature has spotlighted 11 small communities in the Finger Lakes region for their outstanding peace, natural beauty, and high quality of life. Towns such as Watkins Glen, Montour Falls, Canandaigua, Aurora, and Geneva were praised for their historic character, scenic attractions, and opportunities for outdoor recreation. Each location was noted for unique attributes, such as lakefront parks, historic architecture, and welcoming atmospheres. This recognition highlights the region's ongoing appeal to both residents and visitors. (Source: Fingerlakes1.com on Dec 10)
December 9, 2025
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Aurora-Ledyard Fire District Approves $125,000 Allocation for New Ambulance: The Aurora-Ledyard Fire District has authorized the use of up to $125,000 from its capital reserve to purchase a new ambulance, replacing its current 2002 Wheeled Coach vehicle. The new ambulance will also be equipped with associated gear and will be obtained through a competitive bidding process outlined in Bid 2025-1. The Board of Fire Commissioners approved the resolution, and it is subject to a permissive referendum that allows voters to challenge the expenditure if requested. Funding will come from the district’s Equipment/Capital Reserve Fund. (Source: Fingerlakes1.com on Dec 9)
November 29, 2025
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Judge Allows Wells College Asset Transfer to Proceed Despite Village Objections: A Cayuga County judge has allowed Wells College to advance its asset transfer, including most of its $28 million endowment, after denying the Village of Aurora's request to halt the process. The decision clears legal barriers for the college's legacy agreement with Hobart and William Smith Colleges. Although the campus remains unsold, school officials indicate that finalizing the property sale is essential to complete the asset transfer. This follows Wells College’s closure in 2024. (Source: Fingerlakes1.com on Nov 29)
November 27, 2025
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Colorado Man Receives Federal Prison Sentence for Threats to Cayuga County Resident: A Colorado resident, Jerry Gordon, has been sentenced to two years in federal prison after admitting to sending violent text threats to a man living in Aurora, Cayuga County. Authorities say Gordon traveled from Colorado with the intention of following through on his threats but was arrested by federal agents upon his arrival in Syracuse. He later pleaded guilty to transmitting threats across state lines. Following his prison term, Gordon will also serve three years of supervised release. (Source: Fingerlakes1.com on Nov 27)
November 21, 2025
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Wells College Faced $7.8 Million Deficit Before Shutting Down: Wells College in the Finger Lakes region reported a financial loss exceeding $7.8 million during its final year of operation, based on newly reviewed tax records. The college's expenses reached nearly $38 million in the 2023–24 academic year, while revenues remained at $30 million, leading to a cumulative two-year loss of $11 million. Enrollment had declined to around 340 students by the time of closure. Assets from Wells College are currently being transferred to Hobart and William Smith Colleges. (Source: Fingerlakes1.com on Nov 21)
November 18, 2025
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Skaneateles String Quartet to Perform at Morgan Opera House in Aurora: The Skaneateles String Quartet will present a classical concert at the Morgan Opera House in Aurora on Sunday, November 30. The program will feature pieces by Haydn, Dvorak, and DeBeriot, with musicians Benjamin Mygatt, Laura Smith, Batmyagmar Erdenebat, and Lindsay Groves performing. The event is supported by local organizations, including the Community Regrant Program and the Village of Aurora. The quartet's return is anticipated by local fans of chamber music. (Source: Fingerlakes1.com on Nov 18)
November 17, 2025
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Cayuga County Lawmakers Discuss Tourism Tax, Immigration, and Lake Sewer Project: The Cayuga County Legislature recently held a session that featured heated public discussions on several pressing local issues. Officials gathered input on a proposed occupancy tax aimed at short-term rentals, with tourism advocates emphasizing its benefits for local funding and fair tax collection. Community members also called for the county to limit cooperation with federal immigration enforcement following a recent raid. Lawmakers further heard debates regarding the contentious Cayuga Lake Protection Project. (Source: Fingerlakes1.com on Oct 30)