Latest News
February 23, 2026
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Elmira Resident Receives Sentence for Grand Larceny in Schuyler County: A 38-year-old man from Elmira has been sentenced in Schuyler County Court after admitting to stealing a wallet and using a stolen credit card in the area. Scott Chimileski pleaded guilty to fourth-degree grand larceny, which is classified as a Class E felony, during a court appearance in December. The sentencing took place on Thursday, concluding the legal proceedings related to the incident. This case highlights recent law enforcement efforts in Schuyler County. (Source: Finger Lakes Daily News on Feb 23)
February 21, 2026
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Two Schuyler County Cases Result in Felony Drug Plea and Larceny Probation: A Rock Stream resident admitted guilt to a felony drug possession charge in Schuyler County after authorities discovered methamphetamine and related materials at his home. Jeremy L. Wright, age 45, will be sentenced in April following his plea in county court. In a separate matter, Scott W. Chimileski of Elmira received five years' probation after pleading guilty to fourth-degree grand larceny. Both cases were managed by the Schuyler County District Attorney’s Office. (Source: Fingerlakes1.com on Feb 21)
February 20, 2026
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Staten Island Resident Arrested After Domestic Incident at Penn Yan Hotel: Police arrested a 38-year-old Staten Island man following a domestic incident that began at a Penn Yan hotel. Authorities responded to a 911 call and discovered that the suspect, Mitchell A. Pringle, had left the hotel with a woman and two children, all of whom were protected by an order of protection. The incident concluded in Elmira, where the victim and children escaped and police apprehended the suspect. Pringle faces multiple charges, including criminal contempt and endangering children. (Source: Fingerlakes1.com on Feb 20)
February 19, 2026
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Locally Owned Bub’s Spirits Launches on Main Street in Odessa: Bub’s Spirits, a new liquor store owned by Dustin and Billie Jo Carnes, has officially opened its doors at 101 E. Main Street in Odessa. The ribbon-cutting event was hosted by the Watkins Glen Area Chamber of Commerce, with both the owners and Chamber representatives addressing attendees. Guests at the opening browsed a selection of wines, spirits, and specialty beverages. The store is now open for business daily, serving the Odessa community and surrounding areas. (Source: Fingerlakes1.com on Feb 19)
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Explosion-Like Sound Reported Before House Fire in Southport: Residents in Southport reported a loud bang shortly before a house on Southport Street was engulfed in flames on Wednesday evening. Firefighters responded around 6:30 p.m. and found smoke and fire coming from the second floor. All occupants of the house were safely evacuated while crews from multiple departments worked for hours to extinguish the fire. The cause of the blaze and the earlier loud noise have not yet been determined by officials. (Source: Fingerlakes1.com on Feb 19)
February 18, 2026
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Rochester Man Indicted in $52,000 iPhone Theft from Macedon Walmart: A Rochester resident has been indicted following accusations of stealing over 60 iPhones, valued at nearly $52,000, from a Macedon Walmart. Authorities allege the suspect impersonated a store employee in early 2023 to obtain master keys and access storage containers. After a lengthy investigation, law enforcement issued a warrant, and the individual was later apprehended in Elmira during a traffic stop. He now faces felony grand larceny charges in Wayne County. (Source: Fingerlakes1.com on Feb 18)
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Rochester Resident Arrested After $50,000 iPhone Theft From Macedon Walmart: A Rochester man was apprehended in connection with the theft of over $50,000 in iPhones from a Walmart located in Macedon. The arrest follows a two-year investigation, culminating when Elmira Police stopped and detained the suspect, identified as 32-year-old Anthony Capers. Authorities linked Capers to the large-scale theft using evidence gathered during the inquiry. The case highlights ongoing efforts to address major retail crimes in the region. (Source: Finger Lakes Daily News on Feb 18)
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Keuka Men's Basketball Defeats Elmira to Finish Regular Season With a Win: Keuka College men's basketball ended their 2025-26 regular season with a 103-91 victory over Elmira College in an Empire 8 Conference matchup. The team saw five players reach double figures, contributing to the strong offensive performance. Keuka College closes the season with a 12-13 overall record and 9-7 in the Empire 8. The outcome secures their position in the conference ahead of postseason play. (Source: Finger Lakes Daily News on Feb 18)
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Keuka College Women’s Basketball Concludes Season with Defeat at Elmira: The Keuka College women's basketball team concluded its 2025-26 campaign with a 68-58 loss to Elmira College in an Empire 8 matchup. The Wolves finished the season holding a 9-15 overall record and 4-12 within the Empire 8 conference. Lillian Mullen contributed 19 points to lead the Keuka squad in scoring during the season finale. The outcome marked the close of another year for the team as they look toward next season. (Source: Finger Lakes Daily News on Feb 18)
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Cardiac Catheterization Labs Provide Critical Care for Heart Emergencies: Cardiac catheterization laboratories, commonly referred to as cath labs, serve an essential function in hospitals when patients experience acute heart conditions such as heart attacks or dangerous arrhythmias. These specialized labs allow physicians to quickly diagnose and treat blockages or other heart issues, potentially reducing long-term damage to the heart and improving survival rates. Procedures include opening clogged arteries and addressing irregular heartbeats. Rapid intervention in cath labs can significantly improve outcomes for patients during cardiac emergencies. (Source: The Ithaca Voice on Feb 18)
February 17, 2026
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Public Meeting Scheduled for Route 14 Paving Project in Chemung County: The New York State Department of Transportation is planning significant improvements along Route 14 in Chemung County, with resurfacing set to start in the fall of 2026. The project covers the stretch from just north of West Broad Street in Horseheads to north of the Elmira city line, impacting several towns and villages. Planned work includes new pavement, updated traffic signals, new signs, and two added left-turn lanes. Residents can learn more at a February 26 public meeting in Horseheads. (Source: Fingerlakes1.com on Feb 17)
February 11, 2026
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Elmira Police Conclude Investigation into 1964 Homicide Case: The Elmira Police Department has officially closed the investigation into the 1964 death of 12-year-old Mary Theresa Simpson. The case, which remained unsolved for more than sixty years, was one of the oldest in the city's history. Authorities announced the closure following new developments in their review. This conclusion marks the end of a longstanding search for answers in the Elmira community. (Source: Finger Lakes Daily News on Feb 11)
February 10, 2026
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Two Elmira Men Charged With Felony Drug Offenses After Steuben County Traffic Stop: Two men from Elmira were arrested and charged with felony drug offenses after Steuben County Sheriff's deputies stopped their vehicle for speeding on State Route 54 in the Town of Urbana. Authorities report the incident occurred on February 4, leading to the discovery of methamphetamine in their possession. Both individuals now face legal proceedings related to the drug charges. The investigation remains ongoing as officials review the circumstances. (Source: Finger Lakes Daily News on Feb 10)
February 8, 2026
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Three Women Charged With Attempted Drug Smuggling at Elmira Correctional Facility: Authorities have charged three women with attempting to smuggle marijuana into Elmira Correctional Facility. Each individual was allegedly intercepted during separate visits, with correctional staff and a facility K9 unit preventing the drugs from entering the prison. The first incident occurred on December 20, and officials report that all attempts were stopped before drugs could reach inmates. The cases are being processed by local law enforcement. (Source: Finger Lakes Daily News on Feb 8)
January 27, 2026
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Elmira Resident Taken Into Custody After Southport Incident With Stun Gun: New York State Police apprehended a 43-year-old man from Elmira following a reported disturbance at a residence on Universal Avenue in the Town of Southport. Authorities responded to the call around 3 p.m. on Saturday after being notified of the situation. The incident reportedly involved the use of a stun gun, though no injuries were detailed in initial reports. The individual was arrested at the scene, and police are continuing their investigation. (Source: Finger Lakes Daily News on Jan 27)
January 25, 2026
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Spike in Drug Overdoses Reported at Elmira Correctional Facility: A notable increase in drug overdoses has been reported at Elmira Correctional Facility in New York, with 10 inmates requiring Narcan and subsequent hospitalization at Arnot Ogden Medical Center. The incidents occurred in two main periods, first in late August and again during December, with inmates found unresponsive in different facility areas. Officials point to this as evidence of escalating challenges related to illegal drug entry in state prisons. The response involved medical intervention and increased oversight. (Source: Fingerlakes1.com on Jan 25)
January 21, 2026
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Elmira Correctional Facility Inmate Faces Attempted Murder Charge: An inmate at Elmira Correctional Facility has been charged by New York State Police with attempted murder following a serious assault on another inmate. Authorities allege that 50-year-old Oscar Fernandez was responsible for the September 2024 incident, which left the victim critically injured. The charges come after an extensive investigation by state police. Fernandez remains in custody as the legal process continues. (Source: Finger Lakes Daily News on Jan 21)
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Four Individuals Arrested Following Burglary Incident in Big Flats: Chemung County sheriff’s deputies responded to a reported burglary on Brookline Avenue in Big Flats, leading to the arrest of four individuals matching descriptions given by witnesses. Investigators determined two of the suspects were also involved in a grand larceny at a nearby location on Hazelwood Avenue. Authorities charged two Elmira residents, a Schoharie man, and a juvenile with felony burglary and larceny. The adults were released to await court dates, while the juvenile will appear in Youth Court. (Source: Fingerlakes1.com on Jan 21)
January 19, 2026
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Watkins Glen Celebrates 90th Birthday of Racing Figure James J. Scaptura: Community members gathered at the International Motor Racing Research Center to recognize James J. Scaptura as he celebrated his 90th birthday. Scaptura, a lifelong Watkins Glen resident, is known for his dedication to local motorsports and his years of community service. He served as an educator, village historian, initiated the Grand Prix Racer Walk of Fame, and managed ticket sales for the region's Grand Prix races. His legacy as a passionate motorsports supporter remains valued in Watkins Glen. (Source: Fingerlakes1.com on Jan 19)
January 17, 2026
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Chemung County Parolee Arrested After Large Cannabis Seizure in Erin: A parole compliance check led State Police and parole officers to arrest a 35-year-old Erin man after they discovered a substantial amount of suspected illicit cannabis at his residence in Chemung County. Authorities executed a search warrant and seized approximately 45 pounds of cannabis, seven pounds of concentrates, digital scales, packaging, a ledger, and cash. The individual was charged with first-degree criminal possession of cannabis and held without bail. Multiple agencies participated in the operation. (Source: Fingerlakes1.com on Jan 17)
January 16, 2026
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William Smith Hockey Suffers Fourth Consecutive Defeat Against Elmira College: The William Smith College women's hockey team fell 3-1 to Elmira College in a non-conference matchup played Friday evening in Geneva, New York. The defeat marks the Herons’ fourth consecutive loss, bringing their season record to 7-7-0. Senior forward Kelly Howe scored William Smith's only goal, while goaltender Mia Iwicki made 34 saves. Elmira improved to 8-3-1 and benefited from two goals by Anna Lugge and a strong showing in net by Olivia Last. (Source: Fingerlakes1.com on Jan 16)
January 15, 2026
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Elmira Shooting Victim Identified as 46-Year-Old Resident, Dies After Incident: A 46-year-old Elmira resident has died following a shooting that took place last weekend. Police responded to a report of gunfire at the Centertown Parking Garage in Elmira on Sunday evening. The victim, identified as Joshua Tappen, succumbed to his injuries on Wednesday. Authorities continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the incident. (Source: Finger Lakes Daily News on Jan 15)
January 14, 2026
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Elmira Police Investigate Shooting That Leaves Man in Critical Condition: A man was critically injured following a shooting at the Centertown Parking Garage in Elmira on Sunday night. Police were called to the scene shortly after 9 p.m. and discovered 46-year-old Joshua Tappan with a gunshot wound. Authorities continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the incident. The victim remains hospitalized as the investigation proceeds. (Source: Finger Lakes Daily News on Jan 14)
January 13, 2026
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Cayuga Medical Center Nurses Receive Broad Community Support Before Union Vote: Nurses at Cayuga Medical Center in Ithaca are preparing for a pivotal unionization vote on January 14 and 15. Roughly 350 nurses will decide on affiliating with the Communication Workers of America following months of organizing amid concerns over wages, benefits, staffing, and burnout. Community backing for the nurses has increased, with both the Tompkins County Legislature and Ithaca Common Council unanimously passing resolutions of support. The move comes as the hospital undergoes substantial changes within its health network. (Source: The Ithaca Voice on Jan 13)
January 6, 2026
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Sen. O'Mara to Maintain District Offices in Southern Tier and Finger Lakes: State Senator Tom O'Mara will continue to operate district offices in Elmira, Bath, and Waterloo, as well as his office in Albany, throughout 2026. These offices serve residents in the 58th Senate District, covering all of Chemung, Schuyler, Seneca, Steuben, Tioga, and Yates counties, along with parts of Allegany County. Constituents can contact these locations for help with state programs or government services. This commitment ensures ongoing local access to state legislative support. (Source: Fingerlakes1.com on Jan 6)
December 15, 2025
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Dairy Queen Plans Return to Ithaca at Former Elmira Road Restaurant Site: Dairy Queen is set to reestablish its presence in Ithaca with a new Grill and Chill location at 407 Elmira Road, occupying the space that formerly housed Tim Horton's and Cold Stone Creamery. The building, previously constructed for these chains, has remained vacant since Tim Horton's closed in 2015. This marks Dairy Queen's return to the city, which last hosted the franchise at a different site now occupied by Pudgie's Pizza. An official opening date for the new restaurant has yet to be announced. (Source: The Ithaca Voice on Dec 15)
December 9, 2025
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Interstate 86 in Tioga County Upgraded Following $47 Million Project: The state of New York has completed a $47 million reconstruction of a six-mile section of Interstate 86 in Tioga County. The project focused on resurfacing the Southern Tier Expressway and refurbishing two bridges over Apalachin Creek in the Town of Owego. These improvements are expected to enhance both safety and connectivity for drivers and businesses in the Southern Tier. The upgraded highway now meets full interstate standards and supports regional accessibility. (Source: Fingerlakes1.com on Dec 9)
December 8, 2025
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First Day Hikes to Return Across New York State Parks on January 1, 2026: New York State will celebrate the start of 2026 by offering First Day Hikes at more than 115 parks, historic sites, trails, and forests statewide, including several locations in the Finger Lakes. These events, which take place on January 1, aim to encourage families and individuals to spend time outdoors and benefit from nature in winter. Most hikes are beginner-friendly and range from one to five miles. Parking fees at participating state sites will be waived for the event. (Source: Fingerlakes1.com on Dec 8)
December 6, 2025
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New Trial Ordered for Elmira Resident After Overturned Murder Conviction: The New York State Supreme Court's Appellate Division has overturned the 2019 second-degree murder conviction of Demetrius Mack. Mack was originally found guilty for the 2017 fatal stabbing of Albert Sturgis at Gush's Thirsty Bear in Elmira. The court's decision results in a new trial for Mack. This development marks a significant legal update in a longstanding local criminal case. (Source: Finger Lakes Daily News on Dec 6)
December 3, 2025
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Cayuga Medical Center Nurses Begin Unionization Process: Nurses at Cayuga Medical Center in Ithaca have initiated a unionization campaign in collaboration with the Communications Workers of America. The effort seeks to represent approximately 350 nurses, addressing issues such as staff shortages, burnout, stagnant salaries, and reduced benefits. Organizers reported significant backing, with about 73% of nurses signing union cards, and have filed for an election with the National Labor Relations Board. This move follows a decade after a previous unsuccessful unionization attempt at the hospital. (Source: The Ithaca Voice on Dec 3)
December 1, 2025
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Elmira Woman Located Safely Following Missing Person Report: A 64-year-old woman from Elmira who had been reported missing over the weekend has been found safe, according to local authorities. Vikki Gullo was last observed on the afternoon of November 29, and her car was later found on South Hoffman Avenue. The Elmira Police Department confirmed her well-being after completing their search. The case has now been resolved, and law enforcement has closed the investigation. (Source: Finger Lakes Daily News on Dec 1)
November 22, 2025
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New York Expands Health Services to Improve Rural Access Across Finger Lakes: New York State is implementing new initiatives aimed at improving health care access in rural areas, including the Finger Lakes. Efforts include deploying mobile health clinics, establishing rural crisis centers, and increasing addiction and mental health support services in multiple counties. The program responds to the challenges faced by rural residents such as long travel times and limited provider availability. State officials emphasize the importance of the new models to bridge care gaps in underserved communities. (Source: Fingerlakes1.com on Nov 22)
November 21, 2025
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Two Elmira Men Arrested During Alleged Burglary in Chemung: Two men from Elmira were arrested in the early hours of November 20 after state troopers interrupted a suspected burglary at a property on County Route 60 in Chemung. Authorities say the suspects were found inside the building, removing copper piping from the ceiling. Additional law enforcement agencies assisted in searching the premises but found no other individuals involved. The suspects face felony burglary charges and are scheduled to appear in town court in December. (Source: Fingerlakes1.com on Nov 21)
November 17, 2025
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SUNY Corning Community College Hosts Free FAFSA and TAP Assistance Events: SUNY Corning Community College is organizing free public sessions in Elmira and Corning to help individuals fill out the 2026–2027 FAFSA and TAP financial aid forms. Trained staff will provide step-by-step assistance during three events starting November 20. These sessions are open to anyone interested, regardless of college choice. Attendees are advised to bring necessary financial documents and a laptop to complete the process efficiently. (Source: Fingerlakes1.com on Nov 17)
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FLX Gives Online Fundraiser Returns to Support Area Nonprofits: The FLX Gives event, a 24-hour online fundraiser, is set to return this Thursday to benefit nonprofit organizations in Yates, Schuyler, Steuben, and Chemung counties. Organized by the Community Foundation of Elmira-Corning and the Finger Lakes, the initiative aims to connect donors with local causes. The fundraiser offers residents an opportunity to contribute directly to organizations serving their communities. Participation is key to supporting a range of regional charitable efforts. (Source: Finger Lakes Daily News on Nov 12)
November 14, 2025
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Tops Markets Confirms Permanent Closure of Fire-Damaged Big Flats Store: Tops Markets has decided not to reopen its Big Flats location after a fire caused significant damage earlier this year. The store, located in Elmira's Consumer Square Plaza, was approaching the end of its lease when the company made the announcement. Customers who relied on the store will need to seek other grocery options in the area. Tops has not indicated plans for a replacement at this time. (Source: Finger Lakes Daily News on Nov 14)
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Elmira Officials Link Bail Reform to Rise in Repeat Low-Level Offenses: In Elmira and Chemung County, authorities report an increase in repeat offenses for minor crimes since bail reform measures were enacted in 2019. Under current law, judges cannot set bail for most misdemeanors and some non-violent felonies, even for repeat nonattendance at court. Police find themselves repeatedly issuing appearance tickets to the same individuals, with officials expressing concerns about limited judicial discretion. Critics say the law is inadvertently fostering reoffending. (Source: Fingerlakes1.com on Nov 14)
November 13, 2025
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Three Arrested in Chemung County Animal Cruelty Case Involving Dog Harm: Authorities in Chemung County have arrested three individuals from the Town of Big Flats following an investigation into alleged animal cruelty. The case centers on accusations that a family forced a dog to ingest thumbtacks. Those taken into custody include residents from both Elmira and Big Flats. The Chemung County Sheriff's Office is handling the matter as an ongoing criminal investigation. (Source: Finger Lakes Daily News on Nov 13)
November 7, 2025
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Centralus Health Offers Support for Breast Cancer Patients in Treatment Process: Patients in the Finger Lakes area navigating a breast cancer diagnosis can access specialized guidance through Centralus Health's support services. A breast cancer navigator assists individuals by helping coordinate appointments, manage logistics, and understand next steps following diagnosis. The interval between initial diagnosis and beginning treatment can be stressful, as patients often face numerous evaluations and uncertainty. Centralus Health aims to ease this transition and support informed care decisions. (Source: The Ithaca Voice on Nov 6)
October 31, 2025
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Hobart College Hockey Defeats Elmira 3-1 in Season Opener: The Hobart College men's hockey team began its season with a 3-1 victory over Elmira College at the Murray Athletic Center on Friday night. Three different players scored for Hobart, and senior goalie Damon Beaver recorded 13 saves in the win. Hobart took the lead in the second period with a power-play goal, kept up pressure throughout, and secured their win with a third-period goal despite Elmira's late score. The teams are set to face each other again on Saturday. (Source: Fingerlakes1.com on Oct 31)
October 29, 2025
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New Medical School Scholarship Aims to Address Rural Health Care Needs: Corning Inc. and LECOM have introduced the Future Foundations Health Scholarship to address the shortage of doctors in Chemung and Steuben counties. This initiative offers two medical students at LECOM Elmira full scholarships in exchange for a commitment to provide four years of primary care in these rural communities after completing their residency. The program specifically supports students interested in high-demand fields such as family medicine and psychiatry. Its goal is to boost local healthcare access in underserved areas. (Source: Fingerlakes1.com on Oct 27)
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Keuka College Women's Volleyball Earns First Straight-Set Win Against Elmira: Keuka College's women's volleyball team secured a 3-0 victory over Elmira College in an Empire 8 conference match, marking their first sweep and second overall win of the season. The match took place Tuesday night and saw the Wolves win each set by a comfortable margin. (Source: Finger Lakes Daily News on Oct 22)
October 24, 2025
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Elmira Teen Found Guilty in Fatal Shooting at Birthday Party: An 18-year-old has been convicted of murder in Chemung County for the fatal shooting of 21-year-old J’Sean Williams during a birthday celebration in Elmira. The incident took place on Richard Street in November 2024, where the shooter fired five times at close range before fleeing the scene. Along with the murder conviction, the jury found the defendant guilty of two weapons-related charges. Sentencing is scheduled for December 15 and could result in a maximum term of 25 years to life. (Source: Fingerlakes1.com on Oct 24)
October 23, 2025
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Check Out Hunger Campaign Begins at Wegmans Stores in Southern Tier: Wegmans locations in Corning, Elmira, Hornell, Ithaca, and Johnson City are participating in the 32nd annual Check Out Hunger campaign, organized in partnership with the Food Bank of the Southern Tier. The initiative, which runs through November 29, aims to collect donations to assist families in Y (Source: Finger Lakes Daily News on Oct 23)
October 21, 2025
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Elmira Resident Charged After Attempting to Evade Schuyler County Traffic Stop: A 21-year-old from Elmira was taken into custody by the Schuyler County Sheriff's Office following an incident where he allegedly attempted to avoid a traffic stop. The individual faces charges including unlawful fleeing from police, reckless driving, and multiple traffic violations. (Source: Finger Lakes Daily News on Oct 21)
October 20, 2025
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Power restoration underway after severe windstorm in Finger Lakes region: Utility crews are working to restore electricity to thousands in the Finger Lakes following a windstorm that left over 97,000 homes and businesses without power. Areas such as Canandaigua, Geneva, Auburn, Ithaca, Elmira, and Binghamton were especially affected. Most service is expected to be back by (Source: Fingerlakes1.com on Oct 20)