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February 15, 2026
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Annual Dress Giveaway Scheduled for Auburn and Watertown in March: The Donor Family Network, in collaboration with Team Finger Lakes, is preparing to hold its fourth annual Dress Giveaway event in March. Residents of Cayuga and Jefferson counties can attend in Auburn and Watertown to receive dresses and accessories suitable for occasions like weddings and proms. The event aims to provide gently used dresses, jewelry, and shoes to community members in need. This initiative helps ensure formalwear is accessible to all local residents. (Source: Finger Lakes Daily News on Feb 15)
February 12, 2026
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New Keuka College Scholarship Supports Education Majors Facing Certification Costs: A Keuka College alumna has established a new scholarship to assist education majors with the financial demands involved in student teaching and entering the workforce. The Crystal Gips Next Generation Educator Scholarship offers up to $750 per student to help with costs such as certification exams, licensure fees, transportation, and professional attire. These expenses can accumulate quickly, especially as student teachers are often discouraged from working outside placements. The initiative aims to ease the transition into teaching careers for graduates. (Source: Fingerlakes1.com on Feb 12)
January 27, 2026
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Community Mourns Victim Following Fatal Workplace Accident in Skaneateles: A 27-year-old man from Watertown, identified as Hunter M. Foley, died in an industrial accident in Skaneateles on January 22, according to authorities. Foley was known for his dedication to family, love of hockey, and passion for outdoor activities. His obituary reflects on the close bonds he maintained and his enthusiasm for sports and adventure. Calling hours will be held January 31 at Hart & Bruce Funeral Home in Watertown as the community gathers to remember him. (Source: Fingerlakes1.com on Jan 27)
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Worker Fatally Injured in Skaneateles Job Site Accident Identified by Sheriff: The Onondaga County Sheriff's Office has released the identity of a man who died after a work site accident in Skaneateles last Thursday morning. The victim was confirmed to be Hunter Foley, 27, from Watertown. Emergency personnel responded to the scene, but Foley was pronounced dead following the incident. Authorities continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the workplace accident. (Source: Finger Lakes Daily News on Jan 27)
January 18, 2026
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Light Snow Expected, Arctic Air and Hazardous Travel for Finger Lakes Region: Light snowfall is expected to move across the Finger Lakes and Central New York on Sunday, with accumulations generally staying below advisory levels. Most areas in the region can anticipate 1 to 3 inches of snow, with heavier totals toward the east. The National Weather Service warns that arctic air will follow, bringing dangerously cold temperatures and potential travel disruptions, especially for those driving along Interstate 90 and Interstate 81. Hazardous travel conditions are likely through midweek. (Source: Fingerlakes1.com on Jan 18)
January 15, 2026
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Motorcycle Accident Risks and Legal Support in Watertown Highlighted: Motorcycle accidents in Watertown can often cause severe and life-changing injuries, with riders facing increased vulnerability due to minimal physical protection. Common injuries include traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord damage, fractures, and internal organ harm, all of which may necessitate extended medical care and impact quality of life. Unsafe road conditions and potential vehicle or parts defects further increase these risks. Residents affected by such incidents are encouraged to seek legal guidance to understand their options for compensation. (Source: Fingerlakes1.com on Jan 15)
January 14, 2026
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New York Maintains 2% School Property Tax Cap for Fifth Year: School districts and ten cities throughout New York will remain under a 2% cap on property tax levy increases for another year. The cap, which limits annual tax hikes to the lower of either inflation or 2%, continues to affect 675 school districts and several major cities including Buffalo, Rochester, Syracuse, and Yonkers. Inflation was calculated at 2.63%, but the allowable increase remains capped at 2%. This ongoing measure is designed to promote fiscal restraint amid rising costs. (Source: Fingerlakes1.com on Jan 14)
January 2, 2026
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Snowmobile Crash Claims Life in Worth Near Watertown on New Year's Day: A snowmobile accident in the town of Worth near Watertown resulted in a fatality on New Year's Day, according to State Police. Two men had been riding snowmobiles along Junction 306, a trail close to Waite Road, when the incident occurred just after 1 p.m. Authorities reported that one operator stopped and dismounted before the crash took place. The investigation remains ongoing as police work to determine the factors involved in this incident. (Source: Finger Lakes Daily News on Jan 2)
December 29, 2025
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How Accident Lawyers Assist After Vehicle Collisions in the Finger Lakes: After a car accident, individuals often face injury, property damage, and challenging insurance claims that can be difficult to navigate alone. Accident lawyers can help by gathering evidence, communicating with insurers, and ensuring that the rights of those involved are upheld. Their support extends to managing legal procedures and clarifying laws relevant to negligence, liability, or personal injury. Prompt legal assistance may improve outcomes for those affected by collisions. (Source: Fingerlakes1.com on Dec 29)
December 28, 2025
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New York State Holiday Drive Distributes Thousands of Donations to Families: This holiday season, New York's annual statewide drive collected over 4,000 items and more than a ton of food for families in need. The donated food, toys, coats, and school supplies will be distributed to communities from New York City to the North Country. State agencies, including the Office of General Services and Department of Transportation, organized the collection and delivery of these contributions. The effort aims to support families across New York during the holidays. (Source: Fingerlakes1.com on Dec 28)
December 19, 2025
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Watertown Resident Sentenced to Over a Decade for Meth Trafficking Offense: A 25-year-old man from Watertown has received a 132-month federal prison sentence after being convicted of trafficking a substantial quantity of methamphetamine. Authorities reported that Seth Demiceli transported approximately 4.5 kilograms of meth from Rochester to Watertown in January 2025 with intent to distribute. After serving his prison term, he will be subject to five years of supervised release. Federal officials emphasized the significant threat posed by the volume of drugs involved. (Source: Fingerlakes1.com on Dec 19)
November 26, 2025
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Strong Winds and Lake-Effect Snow Expected for Upstate NY Thanksgiving Travel: Upstate New York faces challenging travel conditions around Thanksgiving as a powerful cold front brings strong winds and falling temperatures on Wednesday. Widespread wind gusts of 40–50 mph, with higher gusts possible, are expected across the region, including the Finger Lakes. By late Wednesday and into Thanksgiving, lake-effect snow bands are anticipated to develop, likely impacting travel through Friday. Local residents should plan for disruptions due to both wind advisories and accumulating snow. (Source: Fingerlakes1.com on Nov 26)
November 21, 2025
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North Country Contractor Faces Grand Larceny Charges in Watertown Case: New York State Police have arrested Ronald Herzig of Copenhagen, NY, following an investigation into theft tied to a construction project at the Burrville Cider Mill in Watertown. Herzig faces multiple charges, including second- and third-degree grand larceny as well as violations of lien law. Authorities allege the contractor offered a false instrument for filing. The case centers on allegations of financial misconduct related to local construction activities. (Source: Finger Lakes Daily News on Nov 21)
November 20, 2025
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Contractor Charged With Theft and Fraud in Burrville Cider Mill Construction Case: A contractor from Copenhagen has been arrested after being accused of misappropriating over $59,000 from a construction project at Burrville Cider Mill in Watertown. State Police allege Ronald V. Herzig failed to make a contracted payment to a spray foam company and falsely reported having no employees despite evidence he hired multiple workers without proper insurance. Herzig faces grand larceny and fraud charges, and his case is now before Jefferson County Court. (Source: Fingerlakes1.com on Nov 20)
November 18, 2025
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Senator Schumer and Local Businesses Oppose Canadian Tariffs Impacting Sales: Senator Chuck Schumer met with business owners in Watertown to discuss the difficulties they face due to tariffs imposed by Canada. Local establishments, such as 1812 Brewing Co., have reported significant financial losses and fewer Canadian visitors. While the White House argues the tariffs support domestic supply chains, critics worry that repairing cross-border business relationships will remain challenging even if tariffs are removed. The debate underscores long-term concerns for the regional economy. (Source: Fingerlakes1.com on Nov 18)
November 17, 2025
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Watertown International Airport Opens Modernized 25,000-Square-Foot Terminal: Watertown International Airport has debuted its new 25,000-square-foot terminal, representing a notable advancement in the facility’s redevelopment. The updated terminal includes an expanded lobby, improved ticketing and baggage claim areas, and modern features designed to enhance passenger experience. State and local officials gathered on November 14 to mark the occasion. The upgraded terminal aims to better accommodate travelers and support increased airport activity. (Source: Finger Lakes Daily News on Nov 17)
November 14, 2025
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Watertown Police Lieutenant Charged After Use-of-Force Incident Involving Juvenile: A lieutenant from the Watertown Police Department has been arrested after a New York State Police investigation into an incident earlier this fall that involved the use of force against a juvenile. Lt. James Spencer, age 57, faces a charge of second-degree harassment, which is classified as a violation. The circumstances leading up to the arrest stem from actions that occurred while Spencer was on duty. Authorities have not released further details about the underlying incident. (Source: Finger Lakes Daily News on Nov 14)
October 29, 2025
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238 New State Troopers Graduate, Expanding NYSP Presence Statewide: A total of 238 individuals have completed training at the New York State Police Academy, officially joining the ranks of the NYSP following a ceremony in Albany. This latest group of graduates increases the number of sworn troopers across New York to 5,110. The event recognized several recruits for (Source: Fingerlakes1.com on Oct 23)
September 10, 2025
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Vehicles Taken from Rye Train Station Found in the Bronx: Authorities have recovered cars in the Bronx that were reported stolen from the Rye train station. Local police are investigating the incidents, which have raised concerns about security at the transit facility. No arrests have been reported at this time. (Source: MyRye.com on Sep 10)