Your Morning Edition for Monday, Jan. 6th presented by DiSanto Propane!
Report shows hospitals drastically understaff critical areas like ICUs defying state laws. Plus, Ontario trooper appointed commander, OWWL launch 2025 program, and update on Cayuga barn fire.
Understaffed and overwhelmed: Nurse shortages plague New York hospitals
New York hospitals are not adequately staffing nurses, according to a new report. The New York State Nurses Association report showed between January and October 2024, hospitals failed to staff intensive care units and critical care patients at the state-mandated ratio more than 50% of the time. The report also said most hospitals do not publicly post staffing ratios as state law requires.
Finger Lakes Forecast: Presented by Cafe XIX!
SNOW ISN’T GOING AWAY … NEITHER IS COLD
Residents across the Finger Lakes and Central New York can expect a wintry week ahead, with persistent snow showers, gusty winds, and below-average temperatures expected through Thursday before a brief warm-up by the weekend. The National Weather Service forecasts scattered snow showers into the morning, with light accumulations of less than an inch. Today will remain cloudy and cold, with daytime highs barely reaching 22 degrees and northeast winds adding a biting chill.
Fast 5: What’s happening in the Finger Lakes?
Wayne County native Major Kevin P. Sucher has been appointed Commander of NYSP Troop E, bringing over 25 years of experience to the role. Sucher began his career as a trooper in 1999 and has served in key investigative and leadership positions. Residing in Ontario, he’s known for his dedication to public safety and expertise in criminal investigations.
Watkins Glen Mayor Laurie DeNardo reflected on a year of growth, infrastructure upgrades, and community engagement while outlining ambitious goals for 2025. Key achievements included union contract resolutions, recreational improvements, and progress on an $8.6 million Water Improvement Project. With continued collaboration and investment, the village aims to sustain its momentum into the future.
Fire crews from multiple departments responded to a barn fire along Route 31 in Weedsport on Sunday, successfully bringing the blaze under control. Mutual aid units from several neighboring departments assisted in containing the fire and preventing further damage. No injuries were reported, and the cause remains under investigation.
A garage floor collapse in Camillus sent two cars and belongings crashing into a void on Sunday morning. Firefighters responded to the scene, finding significant structural damage. Authorities are still investigating the cause and assessing potential injuries.
Libraries across Ontario, Wayne, Wyoming, and Livingston counties are kicking off the OWWL Library Tour, encouraging residents to explore local libraries throughout 2025. Participants can collect maps, earn stickers, and win themed prize bundles by visiting libraries in each county. Those who complete all 42 stops will receive a limited-edition gold OWWL Library Card.
Bills to host Broncos Sunday at 1 p.m. to open playoffs
The schedule for the NFL Wild Card round has been announced. The Buffalo Bills will face the Denver Broncos at Highmark Stadium on Sunday, January 12, at 1 p.m. ET, with the game airing on CBS. Check out a brand new, LIVE episode of Bills Weekly at 10 AM exclusively on FL1!
Report highlights agriculture’s economic impact in Finger Lakes
A new report highlights agriculture's $2.3 billion economic impact in the Finger Lakes, making it the top-producing region in New York State. Despite a decline in farm numbers, the area excels in dairy, fruit, and grain production, with some counties even increasing farmland acreage. Comptroller DiNapoli calls for stronger support to address labor shortages, climate challenges, and farmland preservation.
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Free emergency preparedness class offered in Seneca Falls on January 11
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Victor woman arrested for leaving child unattended in freezing vehicle
Contract dispute may push Community Care patients out of network
Skaneateles police investigate string of larcenies, stolen vehicle
Pedestrian struck by Ithaca police vehicle, sustains non-life-threatening injuries
Rochester woman arrested on active warrant during traffic stop in Farmington
Whiteout conditions cause rollover crash in Tyre; no injuries reported
Firefighters confront hazardous materials incident in Canandaigua