Local News

United Way of Cayuga County Opens Youth Drawing Contest for Day of Caring Shirts. The United Way of Cayuga County has launched its fifth annual Youth Drawing Contest, inviting local students from age 10 through high school to submit original artwork for consideration. Winning designs will be featured on T-shirts for the 2026 Day of Caring, an event that previously saw over 370 volunteers participate in community projects. The contest emphasizes hand-drawn and secular line drawings, with entries due by April 17. Finalists will be determined by United Way staff and community voting. (Source: Fingerlakes1.com on Feb 27) Finger Lakes Auburn, NY

Cayuga Nation Opposes Planned Sale of Wells College Campus in Aurora. The Cayuga Nation, along with a previous interested buyer, is seeking judicial intervention regarding the pending sale of the former Wells College campus in Aurora. Both groups have submitted motions for consideration in Cayuga County Court, aiming to influence the outcome of the property's transfer. The legal challenge centers on the future use of the campus and the rights of involved stakeholders. A decision from the court will determine the next steps in the sale process. (Source: Finger Lakes Daily News on Feb 24) Finger Lakes Aurora, NY

Legal Dispute Emerges Over Wells College Campus Sale and Development Plans. The proposed $12.5 million sale of Wells College to the Hiawatha Institute for Indigenous Knowledge is facing a legal challenge. The Cayuga Nation and another bidder have asked a judge to halt the sale, citing concerns about financing and limited campus use for Indigenous education, with most land intended for business development. Harriet Higgins, a competing bidder, also questions the fairness of the bidding process. The outcome will likely have significant implications for the future of the Wells College property. (Source: Fingerlakes1.com on Feb 24) Finger Lakes Aurora, NY

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