Get Local: Fatal crash under investigation in Ontario Co., Canadian tourism down, and Kevin Bacon coming to FLX
It's Sunday, July 27th and we've got your biggest headlines to start the day right here!
Motorcyclist killed in crash in Ontario County
A 70-year-old man from Honeoye died Saturday after crashing his motorcycle in Naples, Ontario County. Randy P. Wheaton lost control of the bike on County Road 36 and was pronounced dead at the scene. Authorities closed the roadway for investigation, and the cause of the crash remains under review.
Finger Lakes Forecast: Showers, storms, and humidity.
Rain and thunderstorms are expected across the Finger Lakes region today, especially before 2 p.m., with highs near 87. The weather will clear overnight, leading to a stretch of mostly sunny and hot days through midweek, with highs approaching 90 on Monday and Tuesday. Slight chances of showers return Wednesday and Thursday, followed by cooler, dry conditions heading into the weekend.
Fast 5: What’s happening in the Finger Lakes?
Canadian tourism to Upstate New York has sharply declined amid escalating U.S.-Canada trade tensions, with border crossings down over 21% year-over-year in June. Local businesses and seasonal economies near key bridges are suffering, as President Trump’s proposed 35% tariffs drive away visitors and increase household costs. Senator Chuck Schumer has condemned the tariffs as economic sabotage and is pushing for bipartisan action to reverse them.
A house fire in Gorham on Saturday morning was ruled accidental after emergency crews responded to flames confined to the first floor of a home on State Route 245. Deputies and fire departments from Rushville, Middlesex, Benton, and Potter worked to contain the blaze. No injuries were reported, and Middlesex Ambulance provided EMS support at the scene.
Starting in January 2026, most new buildings in New York must be fully electric under a mandate approved by the state Building Code Council. The policy aims to reduce emissions but has drawn criticism over its potential impact on residents and the power grid. Exceptions apply to projects with permits filed before the end of 2025 and to renovations.
Kevin Bacon and his brother Michael return to the Finger Lakes this Sunday for a live performance at Point of the Bluff Vineyards in Hammondsport. The Bacon Brothers, known for their unique “forosoco” sound, are nearly sold out for the 1,200-seat show, part of a summer concert series. They’ll be joined by opening act The Pernikoff Brothers, with gates opening at 4 p.m. and the concert starting at 5:30.
Thousands of Upstate New Yorkers are facing significant utility rate hikes under New York’s energy plan, prompting criticism from lawmakers. Assembly Minority Leader Will Barclay blamed the state’s electrification push and a flawed low-income discount program for driving unaffordable costs. With the Public Service Commission poised to approve rate increases of up to 27%, Barclay warned the system burdens working families while offering little meaningful relief.
Nearly 300 NY school districts move to restrict phones
Nearly 300 school districts across New York have submitted plans to enforce new “bell-to-bell” smartphone restrictions for the 2025–26 school year. The state policy aims to reduce distractions by banning personal internet-enabled devices during the entire school day, while still allowing access to school-issued devices and exemptions when needed. Lawmakers praised the swift rollout, which includes $13.5 million in state funding to support implementation and ensure equitable access.
READER RUNDOWN: What else is happening in the Finger Lakes?
Pitching struggles continue for Yankees in series loss to Phillies (highlights)
Yankees acquire Amed Rosario from Nationals to bolster infield depth
Yankees’ Aaron Judge to go on injured list with flexor strain, expected to return this season
Driver with suspended license arrested in Waterloo traffic stop