Latest News
April 15, 2026
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Maryland Resident Arrested on Drug Charges in Ontario County: A woman from Maryland was arrested by Ontario County Sheriff's Deputies after a report of a suspicious vehicle at the intersection of State Route 96 and Commons Boulevard. The individual, identified as 60-year-old Shawnmarie English of Baltimore, faces two counts of criminal possession of a controlled substance in the seventh degree. Authorities allege the substances were discovered during the investigation. The case remains under review by local law enforcement. (Source: Finger Lakes Daily News on Apr 15)
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Seven Defendants to Stand Trial Separately in Ontario County Homicide: Ontario County officials have decided that each of the seven individuals accused in the death of Sam Nordquist, a Minnesota resident, will be prosecuted in separate trials. Authorities allege that Nordquist, aged 24, faced prolonged abuse at Patty’s Lodge before his death on February 1, 2025. He was subsequently reported missing on February 9. The case has drawn significant local attention as the investigation continues. (Source: Finger Lakes Daily News on Apr 15)
April 10, 2026
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Federal Charges Filed Against Man Accused of Setting California Warehouse Fire: A 29-year-old man has been charged at the federal level with arson for allegedly starting a fire that destroyed a large warehouse in Ontario, California, according to the Department of Justice. Authorities report that the building was used in interstate and foreign commerce, making it subject to federal prosecution. The incident resulted in significant property loss and has raised concerns about warehouse safety. Legal proceedings will determine the outcome of the case. (Source: Finger Lakes Daily News on Apr 10)
April 5, 2026
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Walworth Board Approves Farmland Preservation Deal with Genesee Land Trust: The Walworth Town Board has approved an agreement with the Genesee Land Trust to preserve about 240 acres of farmland along Walworth-Ontario Road. The project, funded by a state grant and several years in the making, involves securing conservation easements on land owned by Terry Westfall to ensure long-term agricultural use. The board’s decision was made amid light public attendance and minimal discussion. The purchase price for the easements totals $635,325, covered by the state grant program. (Source: Fingerlakes1.com on Apr 5)
March 27, 2026
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Officials Probe Cause of Early Morning House Fire in Ontario, Wayne County: Emergency responders are examining the cause of a house fire that broke out early Friday in the Town of Ontario, located within Wayne County. The fire occurred at a single-family residence on Putnam Road. According to local authorities, all individuals inside the home were able to evacuate safely. The investigation into the origin and circumstances of the blaze remains ongoing at this time. (Source: Finger Lakes Daily News on Mar 27)
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Early Morning Fire Damages Home in Town of Ontario; No Injuries Reported: A fire broke out at a single-family residence on Putnam Road in the Town of Ontario early Friday, causing significant damage. All residents were able to leave the home safely, and no injuries were reported, the Wayne County Sheriff’s Office confirmed. Multiple local agencies, including the Ontario and Lincoln Fire Departments and Ontario Ambulance, responded to the incident. Authorities are investigating the cause, which has not yet been determined. (Source: Fingerlakes1.com on Mar 27)
March 25, 2026
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Ontario County Sheriff Alerts Public to Ongoing Bail Scam Calls: The Ontario County Sheriff's Office has issued a warning about a phone scam where callers falsely claim to be law enforcement and request bail payments for family members. Several residents have reported being contacted, with the scammers seeking personal information or money. Authorities emphasize that the sheriff’s office does not solicit payment over the phone. Residents are urged to be cautious and contact the department directly to verify any suspicious communications. (Source: Fingerlakes1.com on Mar 25)
March 23, 2026
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Ontario Resident Charged With Burglary Following Geneva Walmart Incident: A 34-year-old woman from Ontario was arrested after authorities linked her to a burglary investigation at the Geneva Walmart on March 9. She faces charges that include third-degree burglary and first-degree falsifying business records. Deputies apprehended her without incident, and she was processed at the Ontario County Jail before being released with supervision. The case is scheduled for a future hearing at Geneva Town Court. (Source: Fingerlakes1.com on Mar 23)
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Ontario Woman Charged After Fraudulent Cat Litter Return at Dollar General: A Town of Ontario resident has been arrested following a larceny investigation by the Wayne County Sheriff's Office. Authorities report that on March 19, the woman allegedly brought an empty box of cat litter to the Dollar General on Route 104 and executed a fraudulent return. Law enforcement apprehended her days later. The investigation led to formal charges related to fraudulent activity at the store. (Source: Finger Lakes Daily News on Mar 23)
March 16, 2026
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Local Tutors Highlight Value of Literacy and Math Programs in Ontario and Yates: A recent podcast episode featured tutors from Literacy Volunteers of Ontario and Yates counties as they discussed the impact of their programs. Tutor Billie van der Sterre shared her motivations for teaching adults and offered examples of learner progress. Program leader Liz Searle emphasized an ongoing need for volunteer math tutors in the area. The organization continues efforts to support adults seeking to improve reading and math skills throughout the region. (Source: Finger Lakes Daily News on Mar 16)
March 13, 2026
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Ontario Resident Charged in Online Exploitation Case Involving Canadian Minor: A 20-year-old man from Ontario, New York, was arrested following an investigation into online exploitation of a minor. Authorities allege the suspect communicated with a 12-year-old girl in Ottawa, Canada via the Roblox gaming platform and shared explicit images. The investigation began after Newark police were alerted to inappropriate online activity and was later handled by the State Police Bureau of Criminal Investigation in Lyons. Additional illicit material was reportedly found during a search of the suspect’s cellphone. (Source: Fingerlakes1.com on Mar 13)
March 12, 2026
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Wayne County Resident Charged With Sending Explicit Material to Canadian Minor: A man from Wayne County, New York, has been charged after allegedly distributing sexually explicit images and videos to a child in Canada, according to New York State Police. The investigation resulted in the individual's arrest, and authorities are coordinating with Canadian officials on the case. Details about the age of the child or the exact charges were not provided. The case highlights ongoing concerns regarding cross-border online crimes involving minors. (Source: Finger Lakes Times on Mar 12)
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Ontario Resident Arrested on Several Child Exploitation Charges: New York State Police have provided additional details regarding the arrest of a 20-year-old Ontario man accused of multiple counts related to the online exploitation of a minor. The investigation, led by the Bureau of Criminal Investigation in Lyons, reportedly began in September. Authorities charged Brayden Bergfjord after several months of inquiry. The case highlights ongoing concerns about child safety and internet crimes in the region. (Source: Finger Lakes Daily News on Mar 12)
March 7, 2026
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Parole Location for Wayne County Convict Shifted to Erie After Community Concern: Chad Campbell, who was convicted of a double killing in Palmyra in 1990 at age 14, will no longer be paroled in Wayne County following significant opposition from residents. After plans became public to place him in the town of Ontario, officials decided his release location would be changed to Erie County. Campbell, sentenced to 18 years to life, may be released as early as March 12, after previous parole requests were denied. The decision follows notable public pressure. (Source: Fingerlakes1.com on Mar 7)
March 6, 2026
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Marion Resident Charged After Violating Protection Order in Ontario: A 44-year-old Marion man was arrested following a domestic incident on Hennessey Road in the Town of Ontario during the early morning hours of March 6. The individual faces charges of second-degree harassment and second-degree criminal contempt after allegedly making verbal threats that violated an order of protection. Authorities reported that the order had been issued by the Town of Walworth Court. The suspect was taken to Wayne County Jail and is awaiting court proceedings. (Source: Fingerlakes1.com on Mar 6)
March 5, 2026
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Two Rochester Residents Charged With Felony Forgery in Wayne County Investigation: State Police in Williamson arrested two Rochester men after an investigation into a stolen check reported in the Town of Ontario. Authorities allege the check was altered and subsequently deposited fraudulently. The complaint was initially received on January 8, 2026, and resulted in felony forgery charges. Both individuals are facing legal proceedings as the investigation continues. (Source: Finger Lakes Daily News on Mar 5)
March 2, 2026
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Water Main Break in Ontario Forces Road Closures and Triggers Boil Advisory: A significant water main break occurred in the Town of Ontario on Sunday, flooding portions of Knickerbocker Road and resulting in a boil water advisory for the affected area. Emergency crews responded near Lake Road and Knickerbocker Road around 4 p.m., leading to road closures as repair efforts began. Residents are advised to boil tap water before using it for consumption or food preparation until further notice. The duration of repairs and the total number of impacted customers have not been specified. (Source: Fingerlakes1.com on Mar 2)
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Boil Water Advisory Issued Following Water Main Break in Town of Ontario: Residents of the Town of Ontario have been advised to boil their water after a water main break occurred near Knickerbocker and Lake Road. The advisory is expected to remain in effect for 48 hours as officials work to resolve the situation. It is not yet clear when full service will be restored. Residents are encouraged to take necessary precautions until further notice from local authorities. (Source: Finger Lakes Daily News on Mar 2)
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Palmyra Double Murder Convict to Be Released on Parole After 36 Years: Chad Campbell, convicted in the 1990 stabbing deaths of Cynthia Lewis and a 15-month-old child in Palmyra, is scheduled for parole after more than three decades in prison. Arrested at age 15, Campbell had been denied parole multiple times but is now set to be released on March 12, according to authorities. He will be closely monitored while staying at a motel in the Town of Ontario, with restrictions in place to prevent contact with the victims' families. Some relatives and officials remain concerned about his release. (Source: Fingerlakes1.com on Mar 2)
February 26, 2026
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Wayne County Announces Schedule for Required Safe Boating Courses: The Wayne County Sheriff's Office Recreation Safety Division will hold New York State Safe Boating Courses on four Saturdays in March and April at locations in Lyons and Ontario. Completion of this course is mandatory for anyone operating personal watercraft or power-driven vessels, with participants needing to be at least 10 years old. The full-day classes will take place on March 21, March 28, April 4, and April 11. Registration can be completed through the state's official boating course system. (Source: Fingerlakes1.com on Feb 26)
February 24, 2026
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State Trooper and Driver Hospitalized After Collision on Route 104 in Ontario: A New York State Police trooper and another motorist were hospitalized after a van traveling eastbound on Route 104 tried to make a turn onto Knickerbocker Road in the Town of Ontario and collided with a patrol vehicle. The incident occurred around 12:30 p.m., sending both individuals to area hospitals for evaluation. Authorities confirmed that both were alert when transported, but their current conditions have not been disclosed. State Police continue to investigate the circumstances of the crash. (Source: Fingerlakes1.com on Feb 24)
February 21, 2026
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Ontario Resident Charged After Investigation Stemming from June Traffic Stop: The Wayne County Sheriff's Office has charged a 39-year-old man from the Town of Ontario following a traffic stop that occurred in June 2025. Authorities identified the individual as Matthew Strickland, residing on Macintosh Road. Details about the investigation and specific allegations were released on Friday. The arrest highlights ongoing law enforcement activity in the area related to traffic enforcement and subsequent investigations. (Source: Finger Lakes Daily News on Feb 21)
February 18, 2026
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Yates and Ontario Soil Districts Announce Annual Workshop on Soil Health: The Ontario and Yates County Soil and Water Conservation Districts will jointly hold their annual agricultural workshop this month. The event will focus on best practices for soil health and nutrient management, providing education and resources for farmers and professionals in the Finger Lakes region. Participants can expect to learn about the latest techniques and strategies for sustainable agriculture. This workshop aims to support ongoing agricultural improvement in the area. (Source: Finger Lakes Daily News on Feb 18)
February 17, 2026
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Ontario Resident Charged with Violating Protection Order After Domestic Incident: A 42-year-old woman from Bear Creek Drive in Ontario, Wayne County, was arrested following an investigation into a domestic dispute. Authorities allege that Brittany L. Berryman violated a stay-away order of protection, resulting in charges of second-degree criminal contempt and endangering the welfare of a child. She was processed at the Wayne County Sheriff's Office and transported to the county jail pending arraignment. The incident occurred on the evening of February 16. (Source: Fingerlakes1.com on Feb 17)
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Ontario Resident Arrested for Alleged Violation of Protective Order in Wayne County: A 42-year-old woman from Ontario was taken into custody by Wayne County Sheriff's deputies after an investigation into a domestic incident. Authorities determined she was allegedly in violation of an active order of protection. The woman faces two charges related to the incident. She was processed for the violations, and further legal proceedings are expected in Wayne County. (Source: Finger Lakes Daily News on Feb 17)
February 10, 2026
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Ontario County Sheriff Requests Assistance in Finding Missing 15-Year-Old Girl: The Ontario County Sheriff's Office is seeking information from the public to help locate a 15-year-old girl who went missing earlier this week. Israel "Izzy" Murinda was last observed by a relative just after midnight on Sunday. Authorities have not released additional details about the circumstances of her disappearance. Anyone with information is encouraged to contact local law enforcement as efforts to find her continue. (Source: Finger Lakes Daily News on Feb 10)
February 9, 2026
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Finger Lakes Region Faces Dangerously Cold Temperatures and Snow Chances This Week: The Finger Lakes region is entering a period of severe cold, with temperatures plunging to some of the lowest levels seen this winter. A Cold Weather Advisory covers several counties, where wind chills may reach 20 degrees below zero, increasing the risk of frostbite. Authorities advise residents to limit outdoor activity and protect pets. Weather conditions are expected to improve slightly later in the day, but the area could see additional snowfall as new weather systems arrive this week. (Source: Fingerlakes1.com on Feb 9)
January 30, 2026
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Icy Roads Lead to Two-Car Collision in Town of Ontario: A two-vehicle collision occurred Wednesday evening in the Town of Ontario at the intersection of Knickerbocker and Kenyon Roads. Deputies determined that an eastbound driver was unable to stop at the icy intersection, resulting in a crash with a northbound vehicle. One person sustained minor injuries and was transported to Rochester General Hospital. Authorities cited the at-fault driver for unsafe speed and failure to obey a stop sign. (Source: Fingerlakes1.com on Jan 30)
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Driver Issued Citation After Two-Car Collision in Ontario, Wayne County: The Wayne County Sheriff's Office responded to a two-vehicle accident at the intersection of Knickerbocker Road and Kenyon Road in the Town of Ontario. Authorities report that the crash occurred when an eastbound car on Kenyon Road failed to stop at the intersection. No detailed information about injuries has been released at this time. The driver responsible has been ticketed as the investigation continues. (Source: Finger Lakes Daily News on Jan 30)
January 27, 2026
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Ontario Resident Arrested After Knife Assault Investigation in Wayne County: A 41-year-old man from the Town of Ontario was taken into custody after Wayne County Sheriff's deputies responded to a reported disturbance. Authorities allege the individual used a knife to injure another person, resulting in minor injuries. The arrest followed an investigation into the incident and the suspect now faces charges related to the reported assault. The case remains under the jurisdiction of Wayne County officials. (Source: Finger Lakes Daily News on Jan 27)
January 19, 2026
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Literacy Volunteers of Ontario/Yates Discusses Community Programs and Impact: The Literacy Volunteers of Ontario/Yates organization provides a range of services beyond reading improvement, including support for adult learners and promoting literacy in the community. Leadership representatives spoke about the importance of non-profit groups and their impact in Ontario and Yates counties. Their efforts aim to address educational needs and foster community engagement. The organization plays a significant role in supporting literacy and personal development across the area. (Source: Finger Lakes Daily News on Jan 19)
January 15, 2026
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Walworth Planning Board Approves Subdivisions and Schedules Additional Meeting: At its recent meeting, the Walworth Planning Board approved two separate subdivision applications, including sites at Walworth-Ontario Road and Ontario Center Road. The board also addressed ongoing matters, notably the proposed 33-unit townhouse project at Gananda Parkway and Eagles Roost Lane. Additionally, members discussed a request from a solar project seeking an extra meeting to stay on its review schedule. The board plans to set the additional meeting date after assessing members' availability. (Source: Fingerlakes1.com on Jan 15)
January 14, 2026
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Winter Storm Brings Snow and Hazardous Travel to Finger Lakes Region: A quick-moving winter weather system is affecting the Finger Lakes and Central New York, shifting rain to snow and sharply dropping temperatures beginning Wednesday. The National Weather Service has issued Winter Weather Advisories for all counties in the region, warning of hazardous road conditions from rapidly freezing surfaces. After widespread snow, lingering lake-effect snow and frigid air are expected to persist through Thursday night. Drivers are urged to plan for difficult travel during this period. (Source: Fingerlakes1.com on Jan 14)
January 13, 2026
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Walworth Opens Applications for Ethics Board and Parks Committee Vacancies: The Town of Walworth is inviting residents to apply for openings on the Town Ethics Board and the Parks and Recreation Committee. Community members interested in local government service can access applications online or at the Town Clerk’s Office. Completed resumes and applications must be submitted to the Clerk’s Office by February 2 for consideration. Additional details are available on the official town website. (Source: Fingerlakes1.com on Jan 13)
January 12, 2026
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Ontario Town Board to Discuss Proposed Local Laws and Agreements at Public Meeting: The Ontario Town Board in the Finger Lakes region will hold a meeting tonight at Town Hall, which will include three public hearings on proposed local laws previously introduced in 2025. The board will review amendments regarding sewer use, the repeal of a section of the town code, and new regulations for land subdivision and development. Environmental reviews and formal adoption of these measures are also scheduled. Additional agenda items include consideration of an agreement for grant administration. (Source: Fingerlakes1.com on Jan 12)
January 9, 2026
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Ontario Resident Charged After Reported Domestic Incident in Wayne County: A 35-year-old woman from the Town of Ontario was taken into custody on Tuesday evening after Wayne County Sheriff's deputies investigated a reported domestic incident. The suspect faces charges of second-degree criminal contempt and second-degree harassment for allegedly violating an order of protection. Authorities report the arrest took place at a residence on Ridge Road. The case remains under review by local law enforcement. (Source: Finger Lakes Daily News on Jan 9)
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Legal Resources and Support Services Available in the Finger Lakes Region: Residents in the Finger Lakes region are encountering a growing number of legal issues, ranging from property disputes and real estate challenges to family law and employment matters. Recent developments indicate a rise in cases involving property rights as more people relocate to the area. Local courts are seeing increased activity in zoning and land use disputes, as well as workplace-related legal claims. Community members are encouraged to seek information on available legal resources to help navigate these complex issues effectively. (Source: Fingerlakes1.com on Jan 9)
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)