Latest News
February 26, 2026
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Sterling Renaissance Festival Owner Faces Stalking Charge in Auburn: Doug Waterbury, who owns the Sterling Renaissance Festival, has been charged with fourth-degree stalking after allegedly following a woman in his car and offering her a ride on December 4. Auburn city police said he also trailed her to a store. Waterbury received a court summons and appeared for fingerprinting in late January, with a temporary order of protection granted by a judge. His court date is set for March 3, and he has previous settlements related to sexual harassment allegations. (Source: Fingerlakes1.com on Feb 26)
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Congresswoman Tenney Praises President Trump's State of the Union Address: Congresswoman Claudia Tenney, representing New York's 24th District, expressed strong support for President Trump's State of the Union address delivered on Tuesday night. Tenney highlighted key points from the speech and emphasized areas she felt aligned with her constituents' interests. Her remarks reflect the ongoing engagement of local representatives with national policy discussions. The address continues to generate responses from officials across the Finger Lakes region. (Source: Finger Lakes Times on Feb 26)
February 21, 2026
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Syracuse University Student Announces Candidacy for Oswego Assembly Seat: A Syracuse University undergraduate has formally entered the race for the 120th Assembly District, bringing competition to Oswego County Legislature Chairman Jim Weatherup, who joined the race after Assembly Minority Leader Will Barclay decided not to run for reelection. Maurice Waldron, a pre-law major in Political Science and Public Policy, emphasized his local roots, noting nearly a decade of residence in Oswego County and leadership roles during high school. He aims to offer a fresh perspective in representing residents' interests in Central New York. (Source: Fingerlakes1.com on Feb 21)
February 20, 2026
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Attorney General Concludes Deadly Force Was Justified in Oswego County Case: The New York Attorney General's Office has completed its review into the March 2025 death of Miles Dignean, following a confrontation involving Oswego County Sheriff's deputies and New York State Police. The investigation determined that the use of deadly force by law enforcement was legally justified under the circumstances. Details of the findings were released in an official report. This conclusion brings closure regarding the legal assessment of the incident. (Source: Finger Lakes Daily News on Feb 20)
February 5, 2026
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Assembly Minority Leader Will Barclay to Step Down and Not Seek Re-Election: Will Barclay, who has represented the 120th Assembly District in Upstate New York since 2003, has announced he will not run for re-election and will resign as Assembly Minority Leader. His district covers communities including Oswego, Pulaski, Fulton, and Central Square. Barclay became minority leader in 2020 and focused on issues such as nuclear power and pandemic-era regulations. He emphasized the importance of a smooth leadership transition as he steps away after 23 years in office. (Source: Fingerlakes1.com on Feb 5)
January 26, 2026
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Lyons Awarded $2 Million in Federal Funding for Canal Street Redevelopment: The town of Lyons has secured $2 million in federal funding to support its Canal Street Redevelopment Project. The funds, announced by Rep. Claudia Tenney, will aid ongoing efforts aimed at revitalizing the historic downtown area. Local leaders anticipate the investment will enable infrastructure improvements and promote economic growth in the community. The redevelopment project is seen as a key step toward enhancing Lyons' commercial and public spaces. (Source: Finger Lakes Times on Jan 26)
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Governor Hochul Highlights Micron's Impact on Central New York Job Growth: Governor Kathy Hochul discussed the groundbreaking for Micron's facility in Central New York, emphasizing its importance for job creation and regional economic growth. Hochul revealed that the state has committed $500 million toward workforce training linked to Micron and its suppliers. She noted that a majority of the new positions will not require a four-year degree, making job opportunities more accessible for local residents. The initiative aims to revitalize the Syracuse area economy. (Source: Fingerlakes1.com on Jan 26)
January 21, 2026
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Federal Grants Awarded to Phelps and Waterloo Sewer Improvement Projects: The communities of Phelps and Waterloo in New York's Finger Lakes region will benefit from federal funding earmarked for sewer infrastructure improvements. The funding, announced by Representative Claudia Tenney, aims to support upgrades to aging wastewater systems and enhance local environmental protections. Local officials anticipate that the projects will address longstanding maintenance issues and improve service reliability for residents. The funding marks a critical step in modernizing essential public infrastructure. (Source: Finger Lakes Times on Jan 21)
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)
December 17, 2025
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Oswego County Man Arrested for Identity Theft Following Wayne County Probe: State police have arrested a 35-year-old Oswego County resident, Thomas R. Alnutt, after an investigation into identity theft that began in Red Creek, Wayne County. Authorities found that several credit accounts had been opened using a victim's personal information without their consent. Financial records confirmed the fraudulent activity, leading to a felony charge of second-degree identity theft. Alnutt was issued an appearance ticket and will appear in Wolcott Town Court on Thursday. (Source: Fingerlakes1.com on Dec 17)
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Senate Approves National Historical Park Status for Fort Ontario Shelter: The U.S. Senate has unanimously approved legislation to designate the Fort Ontario Holocaust Refugee Shelter in Oswego as a National Historical Park. This step, led by bipartisan efforts, aims to preserve the site’s legacy as a refuge during World War II. The designation is intended to enhance educational resources and historical recognition in the region. The bill now awaits consideration in the House of Representatives. (Source: Finger Lakes Daily News on Dec 17)
December 16, 2025
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Oswego Resident Charged With Identity Theft in Wayne County Investigation: A man from Oswego was taken into custody by state police after an investigation into identity theft linked to Wayne County. Authorities began looking into the matter in November 2024 when a Red Creek resident reported unauthorized credit card accounts in their name. The ongoing inquiry led to the arrest of the suspect for fraudulent financial activity. Police continue to review the case to determine if additional charges are warranted. (Source: Finger Lakes Daily News on Dec 16)
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)
December 10, 2025
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Clipper Brings Snow and Gusty Winds, Lake Effect Expected in Finger Lakes Region: A fast-moving clipper system is bringing snow and gusty winds to the Finger Lakes, Central and Western New York, and the Southern Tier. Precipitation is expected to start as snow, change to a wintry mix at lower elevations, and then shift back to snow as temperatures drop. Lake effect snow bands could continue into Thursday and Friday, following a significant temperature decrease and strengthening winds. Several counties are under ongoing winter storm alerts. (Source: Fingerlakes1.com on Dec 10)
November 29, 2025
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Roberta Nelson Art Exhibit Showcased by Seneca County Arts Council in December: The Seneca County Arts Council will present a solo exhibit by artist Roberta Nelson at the Artworks Gallery in Seneca Falls, running December 3 through 31. Nelson, known for her Neo-Abstraction style and use of vibrant colors, incorporates layered paper, colored pencil, and watercolor in her work. Her art features flowing, organic forms influenced by the natural world. The exhibit is hosted in Abby’s Gallery, highlighting Nelson’s contributions as both artist and educator within the regional arts community. (Source: Fingerlakes1.com on Nov 29)
November 20, 2025
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Rep. Claudia Tenney Reports Window Broken at Washington Residence: Rep. Claudia Tenney, who represents New York's 24th Congressional District, reported that a window at her residence in Washington, D.C., was broken. The incident occurred outside her district, but Tenney is based in Oswego County in the Finger Lakes region. Authorities are likely investigating the matter, but no further details on suspects or motive have been released. The event has generated concern among her constituents regarding security. (Source: Finger Lakes Times on Nov 20)
November 19, 2025
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Oswego DoorDash Driver Charged After Posting Video of Nude Customer Online: A DoorDash delivery driver in Oswego was arrested after allegedly recording and distributing video footage of a nude customer via social media. The incident took place on October 12, 2025, during a routine food delivery at the customer's residence. Oswego Police led the investigation and subsequently made the arrest. Authorities are reminding residents about privacy concerns related to in-home service visits. (Source: Finger Lakes Daily News on Nov 19)
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Auburn Police Report Details October Activity and Focus on School Safety Initiatives: The Auburn Police Department responded to 2,443 service calls during October 2025, addressing a wide range of incidents across the city. Officers investigated numerous domestic violence and harassment cases, with suspicious activity accounting for the highest number of complaints. The department emphasized school safety and expanded community outreach efforts during the month. The Detective Bureau managed an active caseload, reflecting both ongoing investigations and new assignments. (Source: Fingerlakes1.com on Nov 19)
November 17, 2025
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William Smith Hockey Secures Conference Victory Against Potsdam: The William Smith College hockey team overcame an early deficit to defeat Potsdam 3-1 at Maxcy Ice Arena, marking its first SUNYAC conference win of the season. After Potsdam took a first-period lead, William Smith responded with goals from Laine Heiser, Finley Crosby, and Madeline Diglio. Junior goalie Mia Iwicki made 27 saves, contributing to the win. The victory brings William Smith's overall season record to 3-1-0 and its conference record to 1-1-0. (Source: Fingerlakes1.com on Nov 15)
October 27, 2025
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Luminology Brings Mindfulness and Resilience Practices to Finger Lakes Schools: Luminology, co-founded by Carolyn Rabidoux and Heidi Kaufman, is advancing the incorporation of mindfulness and well-being techniques in Finger Lakes area schools. Their efforts began in 2008 with a yoga initiative and have since developed into a comprehensive program utilizing positive psychology, mindfulness, and strengths-based learning approaches. The goal is to help both students and teachers develop resilience and self-awareness, fostering a supportive educational environment. The initiative is reshaping classroom culture in the region. (Source: Fingerlakes1.com on Oct 27)
October 18, 2025
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Breast Cancer Awareness Efforts Highlighted in Oswego and Jefferson Counties: Assembly Minority Leader Will Barclay is emphasizing the importance of early detection and access to care during Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Local resources, such as free mammograms through the Cancer Services Program and a screening event at the Nick Sterio Public Health Clinic in Oswego on Oct. (Source: Fingerlakes1.com on Oct 18)