Your Morning Edition for Christmas Day 2024!
It might be a holiday, but as usual, we're here to get you up-to-date on everything happening in the Finger Lakes. Take a quick scroll to see what's happening in your neck of the woods!
Geneva police continue investigating after burglary at Hernandez Mexican Store
Geneva police continue investigating a burglary at Hernandez Mexican Store, an incident we previously reported on, where a suspect smashed a glass door and stole over $1,700 from the cash register. Surveillance footage captured an image of the suspect’s jacket with a distinct logo as they fled toward South Main Street. Despite the setback, owner Maria Hernandez kept the store open, with customers showing strong support and helping with cleanup efforts.
Finger Lakes Forecast: Presented by Littlejohn & Barbi Orthodontics!
CALM AND COOL, BUT WARMING TREND COMING
The Finger Lakes Weather Center shows a calm and chilly Christmas Day with mostly cloudy skies and a high near 30. Tonight will remain mostly cloudy with lows around 15, followed by a mostly sunny Thursday with highs near 32. The weather stays quiet into Friday, with partly sunny skies and temperatures reaching the upper 30s.
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Firefighters successfully rescued three stranded duck hunters near Frontenac Park in Union Springs after their boat’s engine failed in frigid waters. Union Springs and Aurelius firefighters delivered a jump kit by boat, allowing the hunters to restart their engine and return safely. Emergency crews from Fleming Fire Department, Cayuga County, and Auburn City Ambulance also assisted, with no injuries reported.
Gov. Kathy Hochul faces a pivotal year as she prepares to address affordability, public safety, and mental health in her upcoming State of the State address on Jan. 14. Her agenda includes a $3 billion tax relief proposal and potential updates to school cell phone policies, alongside plans to strengthen subway safety laws. Hochul's success will hinge on navigating legislative resistance and leveraging executive power during budget negotiations.
A man wanted on multiple warrants was arrested in Cayuga County after a dramatic pursuit involving a vehicle chase, foot pursuit, and drone search. Justin T. Jones, 39, allegedly rammed a garage door with a snowplow-equipped truck, struck a patrol car, and fled on foot before being apprehended. He faces multiple charges, including criminal possession of a controlled substance and obstructing governmental administration, and is currently held without bail.
The Excelsior Scholarship application is now open for the spring 2025 semester, offering eligible SUNY and CUNY students the chance to attend college tuition-free. The program is available to families with an adjusted federal household income of $125,000 or less, with applications accepted through February 2, 2025. Officials emphasize the scholarship's role in removing financial barriers and expanding access to higher education across New York State.
A Farmington man faces multiple charges, including DWI and resisting arrest, after an investigation on Christmas Eve. Miles J. Martin, 36, was arrested for driving while intoxicated, causing over $1,500 in damage to a vehicle, and obstructing law enforcement during his arrest. He is currently held at the Ontario County Jail awaiting arraignment.
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Seneca County Sheriff’s Office mourns the passing of retired K-9 Ben
The Seneca County Sheriff’s Office is mourning the loss of retired K-9 Ben, who served the community with dedication alongside his handler, retired Sergeant John Fowler. K-9 Ben, who retired in September 2024, played a crucial role in searches, narcotics detection, and public safety operations. Sheriff Timothy J. Thompson, Jr. honored Ben’s service, highlighting his loyalty, courage, and lasting impact on the community.