Your Morning Edition for Saturday, Feb. 8th presented by DiSanto Propane!
State takes more action on bird flu outbreak, closer look at Hochul's free community college proposal, Winter Weather Advisory activated, sales tax growth slows in the FLX & high school hoops recap!
EXCLUSIVE: Free community college for most? Closer look at Hochul’s proposal
Governor Kathy Hochul's budget plan proposes free community college for New Yorkers aged 25 to 55, covering tuition, books, and fees. Advocates believe the initiative will strengthen the state's workforce, particularly in high-demand industries such as semiconductors. However, experts suggest that additional funding for literacy instruction and teacher preparation is necessary to maximize the program's success.
Finger Lakes Forecast: Snow builds today, becoming heavy overnight.
Presented by Finger Lakes Partners Insurance!
The National Weather Service has issued a winter weather advisory for the Finger Lakes, forecasting 3 to 7 inches of snow and icy conditions. Snowfall is expected to peak overnight, creating hazardous travel with reduced visibility. Officials advise caution as emergency services prepare for potential disruptions in key areas across the region.
Fast 5: What’s happening in the Finger Lakes?
New York State saw a modest 1.6% growth in local sales tax collections in 2024, the slowest increase since 2020. The Finger Lakes region experienced uneven results, with some counties gaining revenue while others saw declines. Factors such as inflation, consumer behavior, and regional economic recovery shaped these trends, highlighting the need for strategic planning by local governments.
Geneva’s City Council reviewed key developments, including a proposed public hearing on a housing project and updates on Community Development Block Grants to support small businesses. Economic Development Director David West detailed new job creation linked to an agritech grant, while councilors emphasized transparency in grant allocations. The meeting also highlighted infrastructure improvements, financial planning, and community achievements.
School superintendents are raising alarms over New York's mandate requiring districts to purchase electric school buses by 2027. High costs, inadequate infrastructure, and reduced battery performance in cold weather are key challenges cited. Without state funding or technological advances, districts may face logistical and budgetary strains in meeting the mandate.
Hobart and William Smith Colleges President Mark Gearan reassured the campus community about navigating federal policy shifts under the new administration. The college is monitoring developments that could affect research, funding, and legal access to campus, while providing resources to support affected students and staff. Gearan emphasized the importance of empathy, respect, and institutional values during this period of change.
Governor Kathy Hochul has ordered the temporary closure of live bird markets in New York City and nearby counties to control an avian flu outbreak. Markets must sell off inventory and complete disinfection protocols before reopening, as part of a broader biosecurity strategy. State and federal authorities stress the importance of proactive containment to protect public and animal health.
FRIDAY HS BASKETBALL REPORT: Honeoye’s Landon Washburn joins 1000-point club; Newark boys stun Wayne in overtime
Friday night saw 42 Wayne-Finger Lakes high school basketball teams compete in a busy slate of games. Highlights included Honeoye's Landon Washburn joining the 1000-point club during a win over Livonia and Newark pulling off a dramatic overtime upset against Wayne. Several teams showcased dominant performances while others secured critical victories in tight matchups across both boys and girls divisions.
Boys Scores
Newark 68, Wayne 63 (Overtime)
Marcus Whitman 66, Wellsville 58
Honeoye 77, Livonia 62
South Seneca 58, Naples 40
Dundee/Bradford 48, Bloomfield 39
Geneva 73, Penn Yan 67
Palmyra-Macedon 69, Midlakes 19
Red Jacket 54, HAC 41
Red Creek 66, North Rose-Wolcott 47
East Rochester 66, Marion 41
Williamson 59, Sodus 49
Victor 93, Churchville-Chili 62
Girls Scores
Bloomfield 41, Penn Yan 30
Waterloo 67, Mynderse 31
Palmyra-Macedon 48, Midlakes 20
Newark 74, Wayne 39
Gananda 64, Sodus 18
Naples 42, South Seneca 29
Red Jacket 40, Honeoye 31
Webster Thomas 44, Victor 37 (Double Overtime)
Canandaigua 55, Churchville-Chili 31
Victor man tried entering Canandaigua elementary school illegally
A 62-year-old Victor man was arrested earlier this week after attempting to enter Canandaigua Elementary School without authorization, causing alarm among students and staff. Marcus Curtis was charged with one count of criminal trespass in the third degree.
Over 100 local offices to appear on Ontario County ballots: Party change deadline approaching
Municipal clerks across Ontario County have certified the public offices that will be contested in the November 4, 2025, General Election. The list of certified offices, which includes over 100 county, city, and town positions, is now available on the Ontario County Board of Elections website.
THE RUNDOWN: 10 MORE FROM AROUND THE FLX!
Tompkins County launches mental health support for first responders
Sheriff’s office recaps a packed month with public safety challenges and successes
ORANGE GAME DAY: Syracuse looks for season sweep of Boston College (preview)
Governor Hochul announces six Free Fishing Days for 2025 to encourage outdoor recreation
Syracuse men’s lacrosse improves to 2-0 with win over Vermont
Bath home badly damaged by fire: Investigation remains active