Get Local: Start your day with the Finger Lakes' biggest stories!
It's Thursday, May 29th and we have the latest on human remains found in Ontario Co., a bank robbery in Wayne Co., and an exclusive conversation with Bill Martin after a major winery acquisition!
Martin family takes over Swedish Hill Winery & Vineyard
The Martin family has acquired Swedish Hill Winery & Vineyard in Romulus, expanding their operations in the Finger Lakes wine region. The winery was previously owned by the Peterson family, who began the business in the late 1960s. Bill Martin says the acquisition will boost their sparkling wine production while maintaining Swedish Hill’s popular lineup. The tasting room remains open daily, and Swedish Hill wines are still available statewide.
Finger Lakes Forecast: Rollercoaster resumes today.
The Finger Lakes region will see mostly cloudy skies today with a chance of light showers and a high around 72°F. Conditions remain dry and partly cloudy Thursday night into Friday, with highs near 73°F. Rain and thunderstorms are likely late Friday night through Saturday afternoon, with temperatures dropping to a high near 61°F. The weekend will finish cooler but dry, with gradual warming and sunny skies expected early next week, reaching 80°F by Wednesday.
Fast 5: What’s happening in the Finger Lakes?
A man was arrested Wednesday after attempting to rob Lyons National Bank and fleeing with a large amount of cash. Deputies quickly apprehended 39-year-old Audie A. Arliss near the bank, finding him with money and clothing matching witness descriptions. He faces charges of third-degree robbery and fourth-degree grand larceny. Arliss was arraigned in CAP Court, and the case remains under investigation.
A bill in the New York State Legislature would require drug manufacturers to report any actions taken to delay the release of generic medications after patents expire. Supporters, including retiree groups and AARP New York, argue the bill promotes transparency around costly “pay-for-delay” practices. The legislation aims to publicly list delayed drugs, their intended treatments, and how long generics are held back. Advocates say the move could help lower prescription costs for seniors and other consumers.
The Corner House has become the first adult-use cannabis dispensary to open in Ulysses, offering a boutique-style experience in a renovated space on Trumansburg Road. Co-owners Josh and Joan Friedman aim to create a welcoming atmosphere for both new and experienced customers. The store features locally sourced cannabis products and regional artisan goods, emphasizing Finger Lakes craftsmanship. A ribbon-cutting ceremony is planned for June 20 to celebrate the opening.
Geneva has begun crafting its 2026 budget, facing rising costs for labor, health insurance, and basic services amid inflationary pressures. City officials presented a financial outlook to Council, emphasizing the need for long-term planning to stabilize taxes and maintain service levels. Departments have been directed to cut non-staffing costs by 5%, while the city prioritizes public safety, infrastructure, and economic development. Budget hearings will begin in September, with final adoption required by October 31.
Deputies found human skeletal remains near Mud Creek in Victor on Tuesday evening, following a report made around 8 p.m. from the McMahon Road area. The Ontario County Sheriff's Office confirmed the remains were human after an on-scene investigation. Evidence technicians worked through the night, and the remains were sent to the Monroe County Medical Examiner’s Office for identification. The investigation remains active, with more details expected once identification is complete.
Wayne-Finger Lakes high school sports: May 28 scoreboard
Penn Yan and Waterloo girls lacrosse advanced to the Class D final with strong semifinal wins on Wednesday night, as Bailey Cooper led the Mustangs with four goals and four assists. On the baseball side, top-seeded Sodus topped Pavilion/York in walk-off fashion to secure a spot in the Class C1 Final. Canandaigua’s postseason run ended in the Class AA semifinals with a loss to Churchville-Chili. Meanwhile, weather postponed both the Bloomfield vs. Geneseo (C1) and Gananda vs. Genesee Valley-Belfast (C2) baseball semifinals, which are now set for Thursday.