Your Morning Edition for Tuesday, Dec. 10th presented by DiSanto Propane!
Deputy and motorist seriously injured in Ontario Co. crash, Auburn/Owasco file lawsuit against NYS, update on fatal fire in Tompkins Co., education leaders call for smartphone ban, and Upstate Hoops!
Deputy and motorist seriously injured in crash during roadside call in Ontario County
A sheriff’s deputy and a motorist were seriously injured Monday night in a crash on Route 5 in Canandaigua. The deputy was responding to a call for backup during a roadside arrest when their patrol vehicle collided with an eastbound SUV. Both the deputy and the driver of the SUV were transported to Strong Memorial Hospital with serious injuries and are in stable condition. The crash remains under investigation, with Sheriff David J. Cirencione expressing support for those injured and thanking first responders for their swift actions.
Finger Lakes Forecast: Presented by GoNetSpeed!
MILD WITH FOG AND DRIZZLE TO START THE DAY
Expect warmer temperatures today with highs in the mid-40s to low-50s, accompanied by areas of fog and drizzle. Rain will develop late Tuesday and continue into Wednesday morning before colder air moves in, turning rain to snow by Wednesday afternoon. Significant lake effect snow is likely Wednesday night through early Friday, especially east of Lake Erie and Lake Ontario, where snowfall rates could reach 1-3 inches per hour. Areas like northern Chautauqua, Erie County, and the Tug Hill region may see a foot or more of snow. Temperatures will drop sharply, with highs only reaching the upper teens to near 30 by Thursday.
Fast 5: What’s happening in the Finger Lakes?
Officials in Auburn and Owasco have filed a lawsuit against the New York State Department of Health, arguing the agency’s refusal to adopt stricter regulations for Owasco Lake endangers the drinking water for 45,000 residents. The lawsuit seeks to compel the state to address harmful algal blooms that have plagued the lake since 2016. [MORE]
A 73-year-old Groton man, Gary W. Hendrix, died in a house fire early Sunday on Sovocool Hill Road, while his 69-year-old wife escaped through a window and was hospitalized with non-life-threatening injuries. Firefighters suspect a kerosene heater sparked the blaze, which also claimed the life of the couple’s dog. [MORE]
NYSUT and a coalition of educators, health professionals, and law enforcement are urging the governor and state Legislature to enact uniform cellphone restrictions during the school day, citing digital distractions' negative effects on learning and mental health. Supporters argue that phone-free policies can improve student engagement, behavior, and well-being, calling for action in 2025 to create distraction-free learning environments. [MORE]
Gov. Kathy Hochul has until Friday to act on a bill that would mandate public notice and input before hospitals or health centers close, aiming to prevent abrupt shutdowns that leave communities without care. Advocates say the measure is essential for transparency, as over 40 hospitals have closed in the past decade with little warning. [MORE]
A pet advocacy group is suing to block New York’s upcoming ban on selling dogs, cats, and rabbits in retail stores, arguing it will harm businesses and drive black market sales. The Puppy Mill Pipeline Act, taking effect Dec. 15, aims to curb abusive breeding practices, with violators facing fines of $1,000 per sale. [MORE]
MONDAY HS BASKETBALL REPORT: Geneva boys grind out win over Honeoye Falls-Lima; Dundee/Bradford’s Kendall Parker scores 38 points
Week two of high school basketball kicked off with a thrilling slate of games. The Geneva boys fought for a hard-earned 47-40 win over Honeoye Falls-Lima, improving to 2-1 on the season. Dundee/Bradford's Kendall Parker stole the spotlight, dropping 38 points in a dominant 69-13 victory against Red Jacket. Other highlights included Gananda edging out Sodus and Greece Odyssey overpowering Waterloo. Check out full scores, standout stats, and previews for Tuesday’s matchups below.
ICYMI: Bills Weekly breaks down Buffalo’s loss and what’s next!
MORE HEADLINES FROM AROUND THE FLX
ORANGE GAME DAY: Syracuse looks to snap two-game skid at home against UAlbany (preview)
Former Cuomo aide drops harassment lawsuit against him and top aides
Boy dies, girl critically injured after falling through ice in Albany
FLCC students choose wine label inspired by sacred geometry and the stars
Tops markets ready for the holidays with savings and seasonal essentials
Seneca County Suicide Prevention Coalition to receive 2024 George Bailey Award
Community Bank branches give back to local communities for the holidays
Seneca County legislation establishes unified water and sewer authority
Hornell police receive grant for new cameras and license plate readers
Lyons man faces multiple charges after violent camper incident
Medical biller convicted for stealing $1.1 million from New York surgeons