Latest News
January 1, 2026
-
South Seneca School District Prioritizes Student Engagement to Boost Graduation Rate: The South Seneca School District in Ovid is placing a strong emphasis on increasing student engagement. School officials attribute recent improvements in graduation rates to a range of initiatives designed to involve students more actively in their learning. The district is focusing on approaches that foster both academic participation and a sense of belonging. These efforts aim to sustain educational gains and benefit the community in the long term. (Source: Finger Lakes Times on Jan 1)
December 31, 2025
-
Emergency Crews Respond to Vehicle Accident on Guardrail in Ovid: Firefighters from Ovid, with assistance from Interlaken and Lodi, and South Seneca Ambulance, responded to a single-car accident on Tuesday evening at the intersection of Center Road and State Route 89 in Ovid. According to officials, the vehicle came to rest on top of a guardrail. Fortunately, no injuries were reported at the scene. Authorities are investigating the circumstances surrounding the crash. (Source: Finger Lakes Daily News on Dec 31)
December 27, 2025
-
Seneca County Supervisors Consider Website Redesign and End-of-Year Contracts: Seneca County supervisors held committee and board meetings on December 23 to discuss several key initiatives, including a proposal to update the county's official website. During the meeting, experts highlighted concerns about the current site's usability, security, and compliance with federal accessibility requirements. The board also reviewed a new labor agreement for the sheriff’s employees and addressed contracts for jail services, court security, infrastructure, and mental health. Decisions are expected to finalize these actions soon. (Source: Fingerlakes1.com on Dec 27)
December 23, 2025
-
Two Men Arrested Following Burglary Investigation in Ovid: New York State Police arrested two men after responding to a reported burglary at a building on County Road 132 in the town of Ovid. Officers discovered signs of forced entry, including damaged doors and broken windows, and located the suspects hiding in the basement. The investigation revealed stolen property, controlled substances, and evidence of significant property damage. Both individuals face burglary and related charges following the incident. (Source: Fingerlakes1.com on Dec 23)
-
Two Men Taken Into Custody Following Burglary in Ovid: Law enforcement officers arrested two men on Saturday after responding to a burglary reported at a building on County Road 132 in the town of Ovid. Seneca County authorities received an early morning tip about suspicious activity on the property. Both state troopers and county deputies responded to investigate and made the arrests following their inquiries. No important injuries were reported and the incident remains under investigation. (Source: Finger Lakes Daily News on Dec 23)
-
Two Tompkins County Men Charged With Burglary at Ovid Property: New York State Police reported that two men from Tompkins County were apprehended at a location on County Road 132 in Ovid over the weekend. Authorities say the suspects were caught in the act and subsequently charged with burglary. Details regarding the property's nature or additional circumstances were not disclosed. The investigation into the incident remains ongoing as police process the arrests. (Source: Finger Lakes Times on Dec 22)
December 21, 2025
-
Seneca County Supervisors to Review Labor, Housing, and Public Works Issues Tuesday: The Seneca County Board of Supervisors will convene Tuesday in Waterloo for their year-end meeting, focusing on key issues such as labor contracts with the Sheriff's Employees Association, proposed changes to county manager residency requirements, and public works projects. Discussion will also cover funding for a potential new highway barn and continued use of the Seneca-Cayuga Canal Trail. The board will address contracts related to the correctional facility and other infrastructure initiatives. (Source: Fingerlakes1.com on Dec 21)
December 18, 2025
-
Adams Ensemble's Winter Solstice Performance in Hector Sells Out: The Adams Ensemble's annual Winter Solstice concert, scheduled for December 21 in Hector, has reached full capacity. This tradition began in December 1998 at Orchard Park Acoustic Barn Recording Studios in Ovid and continues to attract strong community interest. Local residents have shown ongoing enthusiasm for the ensemble's events, signaling robust support for the arts in the Finger Lakes area. No additional tickets are available for this year's performance. (Source: Finger Lakes Times on Dec 18)
December 16, 2025
-
Groton Resident Charged After Property-Damage Collision in Ovid: A 41-year-old man from Groton was taken into custody following a property-damage traffic incident in the Town of Ovid. Authorities report the individual, identified as Malcond Valladares-Herrera, was traveling northbound on State Route 96 when he did not yield to another vehicle, causing a collision. There were no reported injuries, but damages to the vehicles occurred. Law enforcement responded to the scene and initiated charges against the driver. (Source: Finger Lakes Daily News on Dec 16)
December 15, 2025
-
Seneca County Deputies Arrest Ovid Man After Domestic Incident in Covert: A man from Ovid was arrested following a domestic incident in the Town of Covert, Seneca County. Deputies responded on December 11 and found the situation involved property damage, physical contact with the victim, and attempts to prevent the victim from accessing emergency help. Three children were present during the event, which led to multiple charges against the suspect. He was taken into custody and held pending court proceedings. (Source: Fingerlakes1.com on Dec 15)
-
Driver Arrested for Unlicensed Operation Following Crash in Ovid: A crash at the intersection of State Routes 96A and 96 in Ovid resulted in the arrest of Malcond D. Valladares-Herrera of Groton after deputies determined he failed to yield the right of way. The incident occurred around 8:35 a.m. on December 10. No injuries were reported, but both vehicles required towing. Valladares-Herrera faces multiple charges, including aggravated unlicensed operation, and is expected to appear in Town of Ovid Court. (Source: Fingerlakes1.com on Dec 15)
-
Two Ovid Residents Arrested After Wallet Theft at Local Dollar General: Law enforcement responded to a report of a stolen wallet at a discount store in Ovid, resulting in two arrests on Wednesday afternoon. Julia Collins, 58, and William Campbell, 54, were identified and charged after deputies investigated an incident at the Dollar General on December 13. Authorities recovered the stolen wallet and charged both individuals with conspiracy, petit larceny, and grand larceny. Both suspects were released with appearance tickets and are scheduled for court in January. (Source: Fingerlakes1.com on Dec 15)
-
Seneca County Deputies Arrest Two Ovid Residents in Larceny Investigation: Deputies from the Seneca County Sheriff's Office arrested two individuals from Ovid on Saturday in connection with larceny and conspiracy charges at a local business. Authorities identified the suspects as Julia Collins, 58, and William Campbell, 54. The arrests occurred around 3:15 p.m. as part of an ongoing investigation led by the department. Both individuals now face criminal charges and the investigation continues. (Source: Finger Lakes Daily News on Dec 15)
-
Ovid Resident Charged After Deputies Investigate Domestic Incident in Covert: Authorities in Seneca County arrested Stewart Woodard Jr. of Ovid on December 11 after responding to a report of a domestic incident in the Town of Covert. According to the sheriff's office, deputies conducted an investigation before making the arrest. The details regarding the incident and potential charges have not been fully disclosed. Further information is expected from law enforcement as the case develops. (Source: Finger Lakes Daily News on Dec 15)
December 5, 2025
-
Ovid Winter Festival to Feature Parade, Caroling, and Holiday Activities Saturday: The Ovid Winter Festival, scheduled for Saturday, will offer a range of holiday-themed activities for residents and visitors. The event begins with an early breakfast at the local fire department and includes craft bazaars, auctions, raffles, and children's activities throughout downtown Ovid. Highlights include afternoon caroling, followed by a Main Street parade and a tree lighting ceremony at Three Bears Park. Raffle prizes such as local gift cards and a TV will also be available. (Source: Fingerlakes1.com on Dec 5)
December 4, 2025
-
Ovid Winter Festival Scheduled for December 6 in Downtown Area: The community of Ovid in Seneca County will hold its annual Winter Festival on Saturday, December 6. Festivities are planned throughout the downtown area, offering opportunities for residents and visitors to enjoy seasonal activities. The event is a recurring tradition that draws local participation each year. Organizers anticipate a strong turnout for this year's celebration. (Source: Finger Lakes Times on Dec 4)
November 30, 2025
-
O'Mara and Palmesano Plan Community Meeting in Ovid on Legislative Issues: Senator Tom O'Mara and Assemblyman Phil Palmesano are set to hold a public community meeting in Ovid at the local fire department on December 1. Scheduled for 5:00 p.m. at 2136 Brown Street, the meeting aims to provide residents with an opportunity to discuss local priorities and legislative concerns ahead of the upcoming New York State legislative session. The event is open to all area residents, who are encouraged to participate and share input directly with their representatives. The session seeks to foster dialogue on issues relevant to Ovid and Seneca County. (Source: Fingerlakes1.com on Nov 30)
November 26, 2025
-
Ovid Highway Superintendent Steps Down Ahead of Winter, Interim Plan in Place: Jeremy Huff, the elected highway superintendent for the Town of Ovid, unexpectedly resigned from his position on November 21, according to the town supervisor. The deputy highway superintendent will manage daily operations until a new leader is chosen in the 2026 election. The vacancy has been reported to the state Board of Elections as required by law. Town officials have assured residents that road safety and fiscal responsibility will remain priorities during this transition. (Source: Fingerlakes1.com on Nov 26)
November 16, 2025
-
Seneca County Food Pantries Expand Assistance and Volunteer Opportunities: Food pantries throughout Seneca County are increasing their efforts to support families as colder months approach. Multiple organizations now offer food distribution with varied weekday and weekend hours to better meet community needs. Residents are also encouraged to contribute by donating non-perishable items or volunteering at local pantries. These initiatives aim to ensure access to healthy groceries and promote community involvement as winter sets in. (Source: Fingerlakes1.com on Nov 16)
November 15, 2025
-
Seneca County Debates Animal Shelter's New Service Limits and Tax Levy Increase: During its November meeting, the Seneca County Board of Supervisors discussed significant changes to local animal control services and a proposed increase in the 2026 tax levy. Leaders from Beverly’s Animal Shelter explained that stricter state regulations will force them to reduce their service area to just Seneca Falls, Waterloo, and Fayette, as the facility is adjusting to new staffing and space requirements. The modified service has prompted concerns about animal care gaps in the county. The board is also weighing the implications of raising taxes to meet future needs. (Source: Fingerlakes1.com on Nov 15)
November 13, 2025
-
United Way Introduces 'Hands of Hope' to Aid Seneca County Veterans: The United Way of Seneca County has started the 'Hands of Hope' campaign to encourage community members to send messages of gratitude and support to local veterans. The effort, organized with the Financial Wellness Coalition, aims to address financial hardship and gambling-related issues facing veterans, especially during the holiday season. The campaign will collect supportive messages from residents and display them publicly. Seneca County is home to approximately 2,289 veterans, making such outreach especially significant. (Source: Fingerlakes1.com on Nov 13)
-
Ovid Town Council Issues No-Confidence Vote in Highway Superintendent: The Ovid Town Council expressed its lack of confidence in Highway Superintendent Jeremy Huff during its latest meeting. The council’s vote signals significant concern over the department’s leadership but does not itself remove Huff from office. No specific details regarding the council’s concerns were released at the meeting. The situation highlights ongoing issues within the local government’s public works oversight. (Source: Finger Lakes Times on Nov 13)
October 30, 2025
-
Author to Present on Catharine Montour at Ovid Library November 5: Cynthia Neale, an author with an interest in regional history, will deliver a presentation about Catharine Montour, known as the Queen of the Tumbling Waters, on November 5 at the Edith B. Ford Memorial Library in Ovid. The event is set for the early evening and aims to explore the historical significance of Montour in the Finger Lakes area. Local residents and history enthusiasts are invited to attend this educational program. The presentation underscores the area's cultural heritage. (Source: Finger Lakes Times on Oct 30)
October 29, 2025
-
Ovid Hosts 'No Kings Day' Rally Addressing Government Concerns: Nearly 200 residents assembled along Route 96 in Ovid for a rally organized by Indivisible Seneca, coinciding with the national 'No Kings Day' events. The gathering focused on expressing local concerns about government authority and was part of a coordinated effort held in various locations across (Source: Finger Lakes Daily News on Oct 20)
October 19, 2025
-
Residents in Ovid and Newark Join National Day of Protest Over Federal Policies: Community members in Ovid and Newark participated in a nationwide protest event, voicing concerns about federal government actions and advocating for democratic principles. The rallies, organized by local advocacy groups, drew hundreds of participants and were part of a broader movement with similar (Source: Fingerlakes1.com on Oct 19)