Get Local: The latest headlines for Thursday, June 26th!
We've got updates on a major primary contest in Ontario Co. Plus, the latest on Auburn City Council's meeting tonight, as well as a major Finger Lakes festival that was canceled!
FLX WEEKLY: Hosmer Winery celebrates 40 years!
Finger Lakes Forecast: Showers and storms.
Rain and thunderstorms are expected across the Finger Lakes through Saturday, with the heaviest precipitation likely today and Friday. Temperatures will remain in the upper 70s to low 80s, with humid conditions and intermittent storm chances continuing into early next week. Sunday looks to be the nicest day of the weekend with mostly sunny skies and highs near 81. A return to hot, stormy weather is forecast for Monday and Tuesday, before clearing again by midweek.
Fast 5: What’s happening in the Finger Lakes?
Jason MacBride has declared victory in the Republican primary for Ontario County District Attorney, leading incumbent Jim Ritts by 115 votes. Ritts has not conceded, citing outstanding absentee ballots and pending certification from the Board of Elections. The race highlighted divisions within the legal and law enforcement community, especially over a controversial office party and split endorsements. Both candidates will appear on the November ballot, but the GOP nomination gives MacBride a potential advantage in a Republican-leaning county.
A new state report shows that Industrial Development Agencies (IDAs) in the Finger Lakes region had mixed results in 2023. Ontario and Seneca counties led the region in job creation and project value, while Yates and Schuyler counties reported the least economic impact. Tompkins and Steuben also saw strong gains, whereas Cayuga and Wayne had modest results. Overall, the region added over 21,000 jobs across 44 new projects, with Monroe County driving most of the growth.
The Auburn City Council is set to vote tonight on a proposed 5% occupancy tax for short-term lodging, which would fund tourism, parks, and public safety initiatives. The agenda also includes resolutions to accept nearly $60,000 in grants and sponsorships for summer recreation programs and entertainment events. Additional items include a contract for a stormwater infrastructure project, a police hiring grant application, and a swearing-in ceremony for newly promoted police sergeants. Councilmembers will also hear updates from Cayuga Community College and the city’s recreation department.
Bath resident Tom McGlynn won free groceries for life after claiming the grand prize in the 2025 Tops Monopoly Reimagined game. The prize was awarded during a celebration at the Tops Markets location on West Morris Avenue in Bath. This year’s ticketless promotion awarded nearly $8 million in prizes, with shoppers earning over 75 million Property Points. Tops also announced a future “pay it forward” event, allowing winners to participate in a charity shopping spree.
Proposed federal Medicaid cuts totaling $800 billion could strip coverage from more than 1.5 million New Yorkers, with disabled individuals facing the greatest risks. Advocates warn the changes would reduce access to essential home care, disrupt trusted provider relationships, and harm independent living. Affected hospitals and the broader healthcare sector could lose up to 78,000 jobs, worsening staffing shortages and threatening facility closures. Despite Senate action pending, public polling shows strong support for preserving Medicaid coverage for low-income Americans.
Why was FLX Summer Fest canceled at Watkins Glen?
Watkins Glen International has canceled the 2025 F.L.X. Summer Fest, originally scheduled for July 18–20, along with its associated camping plans. Track President Dawn Burlew attributed the decision to a change in plans but emphasized the venue’s continued support for local attractions and upcoming events. Ticket holders will receive information regarding refunds or credits. Despite the cancellation, WGI’s summer schedule remains full with major races, including the Trans Am Series and NASCAR weekend.
READER RUNDOWN: What else is happening in the Finger Lakes?
Dresden woman charged with harassment after domestic incident
Senator Helming invites kids to join 2025 summer reading challenge
Letitia James reaffirms abortion access rights under federal law for New York hospitals
Yankees salvage series finale in Cincinnati behind Max Fried’s seven-inning gem (highlights)
Juan Soto’s multi-homer game leads Mets to much-needed win over Braves (highlights)
Dryden United Methodist Church to close after nearly 200 years
Waterloo man faces several felony charges after investigation
Wegmans testing smart carts at select NY stores: How does it work?
Tenney reintroduces vineyard data bill to aid NY grape growers