Get Local: What's happening today in the Finger Lakes?
It's Monday, May 12th and we have your morning update - breaking down the biggest stories of the day to get you ready for a new week!
Newark school officials warn of TikTok challenge risking student safety
School officials in Newark are warning parents about a dangerous TikTok challenge that encourages students to damage or set fire to school-issued laptops. The district says the trend poses serious safety risks, including fire hazards, toxic exposure from batteries, and physical injuries. Families were alerted in a May 8 notice and urged to speak with students about the dangers of tampering with electronic devices.
Finger Lakes Forecast: Cooler today, turning a corner tomorrow.
The Finger Lakes will start the week with sunshine and warm temperatures near 81 degrees today, followed by increasing clouds and a chance of showers and storms Tuesday through Thursday. Rain chances rise toward the weekend, with showers likely Friday and Saturday before tapering off on Sunday. Highs will range from the upper 60s to low 80s, with mild overnight lows in the 50s and 60s.
Fast 5: What’s happening in the Finger Lakes?
Cayuga County legislators are reviewing a proposal to centralize economic development services by creating a shared office space and online hub for agencies like the IDA, CCDC, and Chamber of Commerce. The Planning and Government Operations committees also advanced updates on major planning projects, including a new countywide strategic plan, infrastructure grants, and youth workforce programs. Additionally, the county approved a 13-month IT services agreement with the City of Auburn, which could be extended through 2029.
Geneva City Council’s latest meeting included community recognitions, updates on staffing transitions, and discussions around panhandling and public transparency. Council honored Mount Olive Missionary Baptist Church, the American Legion Auxiliary, and city employees during Public Service Recognition Week. Officials also announced Geneva’s participation in a national economic mobility initiative and approved several board appointments.
Construction has begun in the upland area of Onanda Park in the Town of Canandaigua, with heavy equipment on-site and temporary traffic rerouting in place. Crews will be active through Memorial Day, weather permitting, and streetlights along the driveway will be temporarily disconnected for safety. Town officials emphasized that the short-term disruption will result in lasting park improvements.
Five infrastructure and public health projects in the Finger Lakes are being considered for federal funding through the 2026 Community Project Funding process. Rep. Claudia Tenney submitted proposals totaling nearly $18 million, including improvements in Lyons, Phelps, Torrey, Waterloo, and Wayne County. If approved, the funding would support critical upgrades to water, sewer, and health service systems in underserved communities.
Hornell city officials are reminding residents that leaving grass clippings or yard debris on public streets is both illegal and hazardous. The debris can block storm drains and create dangers for cyclists, prompting enforcement of municipal code 267-1. Residents are urged to mow responsibly by using bagging attachments or cleaning up clippings to keep streets safe and functional.
Woman on lawn mower injured in crash on Route 96
A 74-year-old woman in Phelps was injured on May 10 when her riding lawn mower entered Route 96 and was struck by a passing vehicle. Emergency crews responded quickly, and the woman was treated for minor injuries at FF Thompson Hospital. She was later issued a traffic ticket for failing to yield the right of way.
READER RUNDOWN: What else is happening in the Finger Lakes?
Offensive explosion leads Yankees to series win over Athletics
Syracuse women’s lacrosse season ends in second round of NCAA Tournament
New York Even Year Election Law Explained: What does recent court ruling mean?
Cornell men’s lacrosse rolls past UAlbany to advance in NCAA Tournament
Syracuse men’s lacrosse storms back to stun Harvard in first round of NCAA Tournament