Get Local: Biggest headlines to start your Sunday!
We've got you covered with the latest coverage of a major fire in Cayuga Co., Auburn's attempt at getting the school to pay for crossing guards, and a boat rescue near Sodus Point!
Multiple departments battle large barn fire on Canoga Road
Firefighters from across Cayuga County battled a massive barn fire Saturday night on Canoga Road in the town of Aurelius. The blaze, reported at 7:10 p.m., prompted a large mutual aid response and a full tanker box request to sustain water supply. Crews spent nearly five hours on scene, extinguishing the fire and overhauling the collapsed structure. No injuries were reported, and the cause of the fire remains under investigation.
Finger Lakes Forecast: Humidity maxes out today.
The Finger Lakes region is experiencing a stretch of hot and humid weather, with Sunday’s high reaching 92 degrees and heat index values nearing 96. Thunderstorms are expected to develop Monday afternoon and evening, bringing an 80% chance of rain. Cooler temperatures arrive Tuesday, with highs in the upper 70s and only a slight chance of showers. The rest of the week remains unsettled, with several chances for rain and thunderstorms through Saturday.
Fast 5: What’s happening in the Finger Lakes?
Two people were rescued Saturday after their boat caught fire and began taking on water roughly two miles off the coast of Sodus Point. The boat, a white and maroon vessel, emitted smoke and required assistance from multiple fire and marine units. The individuals onboard deployed flares, wore life jackets, and were safely transported to the U.S. Coast Guard station by first responders. No injuries were reported, and law enforcement arranged for the boat to be towed.
Auburn city officials are asking the school district to help fund the $200,000 annual cost of crossing guards, as the city has only budgeted half that amount for the 2025–26 year. Mayor Jimmy Giannettino says the responsibility should be shared, given the district’s coverage across multiple towns. However, Superintendent Dr. Misty Slavic cites state law, which limits the district’s ability to contribute unless the number of guards increases. Both sides remain open to further discussion, with talks expected to resume after school board leadership changes.
Seneca County officials are exploring a new law to enforce health and safety standards in rental housing. The proposal, discussed at a June 27 committee meeting, aims to hold landlords accountable through a mix of enforcement measures and possible financial support. Supervisors cited past housing studies showing some landlords profit by neglecting maintenance, leaving low-income tenants in unsafe conditions. Next steps include studying similar laws, planning enforcement, and evaluating support programs for landlords in need of repair funding.
Two people were hospitalized after a two-car crash Saturday evening at the intersection of State Route 54 and Pre-Emption Road in the Town of Benton. Authorities say Brian P. Leyde, 37, of Fly Creek, rear-ended a vehicle driven by Sydney Spaulding, 30, of Penn Yan, as she attempted to turn. Leyde and his passenger, Lydia M. Rafferty, sustained chest and wrist injuries and were taken to F.F. Thompson Hospital, while Spaulding was treated at the scene. Leyde was cited for following too closely, with additional charges pending the ongoing investigation.
Moravia Central School District Superintendent John Birmingham has officially stepped down following a separation agreement approved at a special board meeting on June 30. Birmingham had taken a sudden voluntary leave on June 9, which officials described as a personnel matter. The district denied public records requests related to any investigations, and Board President Neil Stevens cited privacy rules in withholding the agreement. Concetta Galvan has been named acting superintendent, and Birmingham has not commented publicly on his departure.
Mets roll past Yankees to secure Subway Series win
The Mets powered past the Yankees 12-6 on Saturday night at Citi Field, clinching the Subway Series and extending their win streak to four games. Brandon Nimmo hit a first-inning grand slam, while Pete Alonso added two home runs, bringing his season total to 20 and moving closer to the franchise record. Mets starter Frankie Montas allowed four runs over 5.2 innings, and the bullpen held off a Yankees rally. Carlos Rodón struggled on the mound for the Yankees, who dropped their sixth straight game.