Latest News
December 25, 2025
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Winter Storm Expected to Impact Holiday Travel in Finger Lakes and Central New York: Calm conditions on Christmas morning in the Finger Lakes and Central New York are expected to give way to hazardous weather as a significant winter storm approaches. Forecasters warn that travel later on Christmas Day and through the weekend could be disrupted by snow, sleet, and strong winds. High pressure on Christmas Day is providing dry and manageable travel conditions, but those conditions are expected to deteriorate overnight and into the weekend as temperatures drop. Travelers are urged to monitor updates and plan accordingly. (Source: Fingerlakes1.com on Dec 25)
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Ontario Man Arrested After Reported Domestic Assault in Williamson: A 55-year-old man from Ontario was arrested after a domestic incident in Williamson, Wayne County, where police say he entered a home on Ridge Road and assaulted an adult female. Troopers allege the man obstructed the victim's breathing, threatened her with a knife, and stopped her from seeking help. The suspect was later located and arrested at a separate residence in the town of Ontario. He faces several charges, including burglary, strangulation, and criminal contempt. (Source: Fingerlakes1.com on Dec 25)
December 24, 2025
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Ontario Resident Charged With Felonies After Williamson Domestic Incident: A 55-year-old man from Ontario was arrested by New York State Police after a domestic dispute at a home on Ridge Road in Williamson. Authorities allege the man threatened another individual with a knife during the altercation. Following their investigation, police charged the suspect with multiple felony offenses. The man was taken into custody and the case remains under further review. (Source: Finger Lakes Daily News on Dec 24)
December 19, 2025
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New York and Ontario Form Partnership to Advance Nuclear Energy Initiatives: New York State and Ontario have established a partnership to promote nuclear energy development as they pursue more reliable, affordable, and carbon-free electricity. The agreement between the New York Power Authority and Ontario Power Generation provides a framework for advancing both large-scale and small modular nuclear reactors. Key aspects of this collaboration include sharing technical knowledge and research, as well as coordinating workforce training and supply chain management. Officials see the partnership as a step toward achieving decarbonization goals. (Source: Fingerlakes1.com on Dec 19)
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Geneva Town Board Addresses Appointments and Proposes Occupancy Tax: Recent discussions in Geneva included addressing retirements and appointing new members to various town boards. Kate Ott has been named as the Town Health Officer and will serve under a collaborative arrangement with Ontario County. The town is also seeking approval from the legislature to implement a 3% occupancy tax through a proposed home rule law. These administrative updates are part of ongoing efforts to adjust local governance. (Source: Finger Lakes Daily News on Dec 19)
December 17, 2025
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Wolcott Woman Injured in Two-Vehicle Collision in Town of Ontario: A woman from Wolcott sustained injuries following a two-vehicle accident at the intersection of State Route 350 and Paddy Lane in the Town of Ontario on Tuesday. Deputies from the Wayne County Sheriff's Office responded to the incident, which resulted in the woman being transported for medical evaluation. Details regarding the cause of the crash and the condition of other individuals involved have not been disclosed. Authorities are continuing to investigate the accident. (Source: Finger Lakes Daily News on Dec 17)
December 15, 2025
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Literacy Volunteers of Ontario/Yates Plan Annual Spelling Bee Fundraiser: The Literacy Volunteers of Ontario/Yates are preparing to hold their annual spelling bee, which serves as a key fundraising event for the organization. Scheduled for February 1, this year's event will take place virtually via Zoom, allowing broader participation. Organizers, including Liz Searle and Andy Thomas, discussed the event's history and their involvement in its management. The fundraiser aims to support literacy programs in the Finger Lakes region. (Source: Finger Lakes Daily News on Dec 15)
December 12, 2025
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Another Lake Effect Snow Event Expected in Finger Lakes Region This Weekend: The Finger Lakes and Central New York region will experience a brief pause in snowfall Friday morning after several days of persistent wintry weather. Forecasters are warning that lake effect snow is expected to resume late Friday night and continue through the weekend, particularly impacting areas east of Lake Ontario and parts of the western Southern Tier. Cold temperatures near 30 degrees and gusty west winds are also anticipated. A Lake Effect Snow Warning is in effect for Oswego County through Sunday afternoon. (Source: Fingerlakes1.com on Dec 12)
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Wayne Girls Remain Unbeaten, Newark Boys Secure Comeback in High School Basketball: High school basketball in the Wayne-Finger Lakes region featured several close contests on Friday night. The Wayne girls' team maintained their perfect record, narrowly defeating Mynderse to improve to 3-0. Newark's boys overcame a nine-point deficit in the fourth quarter to beat Palmyra-Macedon in a resilient showing. Additional games across the region highlighted strong performances by both girls' and boys' teams, reflecting the competitive spirit of local basketball. (Source: Fingerlakes1.com on Dec 12)
December 10, 2025
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Aldi Opens New Store in Ontario, Wayne County, With Special Promotions: Aldi has opened a new 20,264-square-foot grocery store in Ontario, Wayne County. Shoppers were welcomed at the Route 104 location beginning at 8:30 a.m., with the first day including special promotions for early customers. This new branch is Aldi's second in Wayne County and is part of the retailer's broader plan to expand significantly across the United States in 2025. The store launch anticipates increased community access to affordable grocery options. (Source: Fingerlakes1.com on Dec 10)
December 4, 2025
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Wayne County Businesses Successfully Pass Underage Alcohol Compliance Check: State troopers conducted an underage alcohol compliance operation across Wayne County on November 30, targeting various stores and gas stations in Williamson and Ontario. Using undercover troopers and underage operatives, the operation found every location in full compliance, with no sales made to minors. The compliance check was part of ongoing efforts to prevent underage alcohol purchases. All businesses tested passed the inspection without any violations. (Source: Fingerlakes1.com on Dec 4)
November 30, 2025
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Wayne County Man Charged With New Child Pornography Offenses Following Cyber Tip: A 40-year-old registered sex offender from Webster, previously residing in Ontario, has been arrested on federal charges related to possession, receipt, and distribution of child pornography. Authorities state the investigation began after a tip from a chatroom website led to the suspect being identified. The charges, which stem from incidents dating back to November 2023, carry significant prison sentences if convicted. Law enforcement reportedly seized thousands of illicit images during the investigation. (Source: Fingerlakes1.com on Nov 30)
November 27, 2025
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Ontario Woman Arrested After Alleged Domestic Incident Involving Protected Person: A 35-year-old woman from Ridge Road in Ontario was arrested on Wednesday night after a domestic dispute that reportedly involved a protected individual. Authorities state that the suspect allegedly threatened a man who was safeguarded by an existing order of protection. She faces charges of second-degree harassment and first-degree criminal contempt. After processing, deputies held her in Wayne County Jail pending a court appearance. (Source: Fingerlakes1.com on Nov 27)
November 26, 2025
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Ontario Resident Charged After Drug-Impaired Crash in Sodus: A 68-year-old Ontario man was arrested following a September car crash in the Town of Sodus, where police say he was driving under the influence of cocaine. The investigation revealed that the vehicle veered off Route 104 near PreEmption Road and ended up in a ditch. The driver faces several charges, including driving while ability impaired by drugs and other traffic violations. He is expected to appear in Sodus Town Court in December. (Source: Fingerlakes1.com on Nov 26)
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Ontario Resident Faces Charges After September Crash in Sodus: Authorities in Wayne County have arrested a 68-year-old Ontario man following a traffic accident on State Route 104 in Sodus in September 2025. According to deputies, the investigation determined that the individual was allegedly operating a vehicle while impaired by cocaine. The incident prompted an inquiry by the Wayne County Sheriff's Office, which has now resulted in formal charges. No injuries or additional details regarding the crash have been reported. (Source: Finger Lakes Daily News on Nov 26)
November 22, 2025
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Walworth Announces Application Process for 2026 Town Clerk Vacancy: The Town of Walworth is currently seeking residents interested in serving as town clerk, with the position starting in 2026. Eligible applicants need to be at least 18 years old, reside in Walworth, and be prepared to seek election for a full four-year term. This opening offers community members an opportunity to participate in local government and fulfill important administrative responsibilities. Applications must be submitted to the Town Supervisor by December 5. (Source: Fingerlakes1.com on Nov 22)
November 17, 2025
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Local Volunteer Group Supports Resident's Path to U.S. Citizenship: Liz Searle from Literacy Volunteers of Ontario/Yates discussed the organization's role in assisting Silmara Bailey, originally from Brazil, as she prepared for her U.S. citizenship exam. With support from LVOY, Bailey was able to successfully complete her exam and became a U.S. citizen in October. The achievement highlights the impact of community organizations in aiding local residents with educational and personal milestones. This type of support continues to be vital in the Finger Lakes region. (Source: Finger Lakes Daily News on Nov 17)
November 3, 2025
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Tractor Supply Provides $500 Donation to Wayne County Sheriff's K9 Unit: The Wayne County Sheriff’s Office recently received a $500 donation from the Tractor Supply store in Ontario. This contribution supports the department’s K9 unit and is part of Tractor Supply’s annual Hometown Heroes program, which recognizes and assists military personnel, veterans, and first responders. The donation represents local support for public safety initiatives in Wayne County. The K9 unit is expected to benefit directly from these additional resources. (Source: Fingerlakes1.com on Nov 3)
October 31, 2025
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Strong Winds and Showers Impact Finger Lakes; Conditions Improve by Sunday: The Finger Lakes region is experiencing windy and wet weather as a storm system moves through New England, causing showers and gusty winds across Central and Western New York. Wind advisories from the National Weather Service are in effect, with gusts reaching up to 50 mph, particularly near Lake Ontario and higher elevations. Residents are advised to secure outdoor objects, and drivers should be cautious due to the potential for power outages. Conditions are expected to improve by Sunday. (Source: Fingerlakes1.com on Oct 31)
October 29, 2025
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Butler Resident Arrested for Alleged Violation of Protection Order in Ontario: A 24-year-old woman from Butler was arrested by the Wayne County Sheriff's Office after a reported domestic incident in the Town of Ontario. Authorities allege that Destiny Andrews violated a stay-away order of protection, resulting in a charge of first-degree criminal contempt. The investigation followed a response by deputies to the incident. No further details about the case or any injuries were immediately available. (Source: Finger Lakes Daily News on Oct 27)
October 27, 2025
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Man Injured After Being Hit by Vehicle at Ontario Restaurant; Suspect Detained: A man sustained lower-body injuries after being hit by a vehicle that subsequently crashed into a building in the town of Ontario, Wayne County. The incident occurred shortly after 1 p.m. last Thursday near Bill Gray’s on Route 104. Authorities arrested a suspect in connection with the event, and the injured person was provided medical attention at the scene. The investigation into the circumstances surrounding the incident is ongoing. (Source: Finger Lakes Daily News on Oct 27)
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Butler Resident Charged With Criminal Contempt After Violating Protection Order: A 24-year-old woman from Butler, identified as Destiny M. Andrews, was arrested after reportedly violating a stay-away order by sending repeated text messages to her ex-boyfriend. Authorities allege that this communication violated an active order of protection that had been issued against her. The arrest occurred after a domestic incident in the Town of Ontario, and Andrews was scheduled for arraignment in Wayne County court that evening. No further information about the case has been released. (Source: Fingerlakes1.com on Oct 27)
October 26, 2025
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Driver Arrested After Pedestrian Hit and Building Damaged in Ontario, Wayne County: A 45-year-old man was arrested after a collision in Ontario, Wayne County, in which a Ford pickup struck a pedestrian and crashed into a building before the driver fled. The incident occurred near Bill Gray’s on State Route 104, with the pedestrian sustaining lower body injuries and transported to Strong Memorial Hospital. Authorities located and apprehended the suspect in Webster following a joint law enforcement effort. The case is still under investigation, with further updates possible. (Source: Fingerlakes1.com on Oct 26)
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Cool and Dry Weather Expected, Rain Forecast for Halloween in Tompkins County Area: The coming week in Tompkins County will bring generally cool and dry conditions, with clear skies and seasonable daytime highs. A northerly flow is expected to introduce colder air, resulting in the first widespread freeze across the region. Residents should anticipate a hard frost soon, including in typically milder areas like Ithaca and along Cayuga Lake. Rain and windy conditions are forecast for Halloween, potentially affecting trick-or-treating plans. (Source: The Ithaca Voice on Oct 26)
October 24, 2025
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Drought and Hail Identified as Leading Weather Risks for Finger Lakes Farmers: Recent data highlights that farmers in the Finger Lakes region, particularly in Wayne and Yates counties, face significant challenges from hail, while those in Ontario and Seneca counties are most affected by drought conditions. These weather events have been identified as the primary natural risks, (Source: Finger Lakes Times on Oct 22)