Your Morning Edition for Friday, Mar. 28th presented by DiSanto Propane!
Latest on massive trafficking case in Ontario Co., Auburn YMCA sees growth amid upgrades, Keuka College offers no-cost grad degrees for healthcare workers, and lake news on Owasco/Canandaigua.
One of Ontario County’s largest drug and gun trafficking cases ever
A Rochester man was indicted on 81 counts following a multi-agency investigation into drug and gun trafficking in Ontario County. Authorities say Ronnie Boswell Jr., also known as "Spaz," sold fentanyl and illegal firearms, including assault weapons and large-capacity magazines, between October 2024 and January 2025. The investigation began in Geneva after community complaints and led to Boswell’s arrest during a buy-bust operation in January.
Finger Lakes Forecast: Cool and damp.
The Finger Lakes will see an unsettled weather pattern this weekend, starting with a chance of showers late Friday and steady rain Friday night. Saturday will be mostly cloudy with periods of rain throughout the day and evening, and highs near 60. Rain continues Sunday with milder temperatures, reaching the low 60s, and more showers likely overnight. Monday brings more rain early, followed by a chance of snow showers late as temperatures dip into the 20s.
Fast 5: What’s happening in the Finger Lakes?
The Williamson and Marion school boards have decided not to pursue a formal merger study, instead shifting their focus to shared services and collaboration. In a joint letter, Williamson officials said the decision was made to better align with goals of expanding student opportunities and maintaining fiscal responsibility. Both districts plan to meet in the coming weeks to consider hiring a consultant for a targeted shared services study. Leaders from both schools stressed that student achievement remains their top priority.
The former Lakeside Grill on Owasco Lake is back on the market just months after selling at auction. Now listed for $899,999, the 4,700-square-foot property includes a commercial kitchen, lakeview deck, multiple docks, and 140 feet of frontage. It was purchased by Grayfield Properties LLC for $429,000 last October after years of turnover and rebranding. Marketed as a turnkey opportunity, the site has no zoning restrictions and could be used for residential, rental, or commercial purposes.
A $10,000 grant from the Rotary Club of Canandaigua is launching a student-led science initiative to help protect Canandaigua Lake. The Jim Holden Legacy Project, named in honor of a longtime Rotarian and community advocate, will give students hands-on experience using professional water testing equipment. Participants will collect data on pH, temperature, chloride levels, and potential harmful algal blooms, contributing to ongoing conservation work by the Canandaigua Lake Watershed Association. Organizers say the project honors Jim Holden’s commitment to youth, education, and the environment.
Keuka College is offering free graduate degrees in nursing and social work to help address New York’s healthcare provider shortage. Through a partnership with the state-funded Caring Gene® Career Pathways Training Program, the initiative covers tuition, books, and fees for students who commit to serving in high-need communities. Eligible students must complete their degrees by 2027 and work for at least three years at facilities where a significant portion of patients are on Medicaid or uninsured. College leaders say the effort will boost access to care while strengthening the healthcare workforce in underserved areas.
The Auburn YMCA is experiencing a resurgence, with a 16% increase in membership, key facility upgrades, and an expanded lineup of youth programs and camps. Leaders say a strong financial year has allowed reinvestment in services, including a new HVAC system, toddler care, and extended programming in the Cato-Meridian School District. A feasibility study is underway to determine how best to modernize the large William Street facility, while a Fund Development Committee works to raise $75,000 for continued improvements. Meanwhile, the YMCA is preparing to hire a new CEO and will expand its popular summer camp offerings, reinforcing its role as a vital community hub.
Dundee Central School unveils $28M capital project with no tax increase
Dundee Central School District has unveiled a $28 million capital project aimed at modernizing its facilities without increasing taxes. Funded through state aid, reserves, and existing resources, the plan focuses on student-centered upgrades including STEM classrooms, arts spaces, and athletic facilities. The project also addresses aging infrastructure, with improvements to HVAC systems, security, and accessibility. Voters will weigh in on the proposal Monday, March 31, with construction expected to begin in spring 2026.
Wayne County shelter to close amid financial strain
Family Promise of Wayne County will close its Lyons shelter on April 1 due to financial challenges. The nonprofit will move its operations to First United Methodist Church in Newark, where it will continue offering case management and homelessness prevention services. Staffing cuts and limited funding made it impossible to keep the Holley Street facility open. Plans for a new shelter remain on hold until a suitable location is found.