A new lakeside coffee spot could soon greet early risers in Canandaigua
Kimberly Vakiener Bacon and Alexander “Xan” Bacon
owners of KiX on Main and Fire on the Lake
plan to open Kershaw Koffee by late May across from Kershaw Park
The café will serve coffee from Evening Star Coffee Roasters
Approved by the city’s Planning Commission
the shop will offer indoor seating for up to 20 people and outdoor options during warmer months
Kershaw Koffee’s daily summer hours will run from 6 a.m
scaling back to five days a week during the winter
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The City of Canandaigua Environmental Committee and Ordinance Committee will meet tonight to discuss flood mitigation strategies
A virtual attendance option is available via Zoom
and the meeting will also be livestreamed on Finger Lakes TV
will hear updates on the draft hydraulic study for the Sucker Brook sub-watershed
The committee will also receive a presentation from Matt Hanggi of Ontario County Public Health on the rising threat of tick-borne diseases
Councilors will consider an air rights license request for Ardor Park Artisanal Pizza
which seeks permission to install a ventilation system over the city sidewalk at 123 S
the committee will review a proposed partnership with the Town of Canandaigua to co-host a July 5 fireworks display
with costs offset by a donation from local lakefront businesses
will follow with discussions on regulating dumpster time limits and a proposed local law amendment specifying the definition of written notification for city liability purposes
FingerLakes1.com is the region’s leading all-digital news publication. The company was founded in 1998 and has been keeping residents informed for more than two decades. Have a lead? Send it to [email protected].
CANANDAIGUA — Perhaps a little coffee with morning strolls by Canandaigua Lake will do just fine as spring heads into the summer lake season
The owners of the Kix on Main restaurant on Main Street
and Fire on the Lake pizzeria down near the lake recently received approval for a new venture
which will be next door to the pizza place across Lakeshore Drive from Canandaigua Lake and the city’s Kershaw Park
according to co-owner Alexander “Xan” Bacon
The Canandaigua City Planning Commission on April 9 granted approval for a special-use permit
“We’re excited to do it,” Bacon told commissioners
Kershaw Koffee will offer coffee from Evening Star Coffee Roasters in Avon
breakfast sandwiches and baked goods from Resilience Bakery in Canandaigua
the coffee shop is expected to be open five days a week
The shop is not expected to be open during the pizza place's hours of operation
Fire on the Lake
Mike Murphy covers Canandaigua and other communities in Ontario County and writes the Eat
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— The Ontario County Sheriff's Office is investigating an apparent murder-suicide after deputies found a woman and a man dead inside a home last week
Deputies responded Thursday to a home on Wyffels Road for a welfare check after a delivery driver reported noticing items delivered the previous week were still outside
After finding all doors locked and the homeowners' vehicles parked outside
deputies forced their way into the home and found Priscilla Herbik
The Monroe County Medical Examiner's Office determined Priscilla Herbik died by homicide and Christian Herbik died by suicide
Cirencione said the incident was isolated and there was no sign of a struggle
A pair of undefeated New York teams and a strong-starting New Jersey team entered the latest USA Lacrosse Public High School Boys' National Top 25
West Islip (N.Y.) improved to 8-0 to debut at No 18
The Lions have more than doubled opponents this year
jumping out to a 121-56 advantage for the season
Also unbeaten through the early going is Canandaigua (N.Y.) after a 13-12 win over Spencerport on Tuesday moved them to 7-0
The Gray Wolves also had a high-scoring 18-15 win over Jamesville-DeWitt (N.Y.) and debut at No
21 Ridgewood (N.J.) after almost coming back with nine second-half goals
One-goal wins over Glen Ridge (N.J.) and Bergen Catholic (N.J.) have helped them match their longest win streak of the season at four
1 spot despite two losses – they came at the hands of private powers Delbarton (N.J.) and Seton Hall Prep (N.J.)
11 Moorestown on Saturday in a showdown with Jersey
Its lone loss is by a goal to private school Pingry (N.J.)
and their recent wins have been impressive enough to spring them forward nine spots
Ridgewood was on the receiving end of another tough loss this week
Just like last year’s North Jersey Group 4 final
Koby Waldman scored a hat trick and had two assists and Westfield rallied from a 5-1 deficit for a 9-8 overtime win
It was Ridgewood’s fifth one-goal game of the season
Their outstanding schedule and competitiveness against it has kept them in the rankings
Horace Greeley (N.Y.) slides up three spots into the Top 10 after keeping its season-opening win streak going
The Quakers face a Rye (N.Y.) team on the rise
Rye has won three straight after a loss to Garden City (N.Y.) to move up to No
East Islip (N.Y.) also jumped a few spots to No 13 after its 7-1 start
14 Lake Mary (Fla.) tries to extend its unbeaten season to 17 games in the state playoffs
Lucy Beckham (S.C.) is new to the South Region rankings
Apex (N.C.) lost a game to open the door for Lucy Beckham
which has been strong all season and won 12 of their last 13 games
including avenging an early-season loss to Wando (S.C.)
Scroll below for this week's USA Lacrosse Public High School Boys' National Top 25 and Regional Top 10 lists
with each team's previous ranking denoted in parenthesis
Compiled by USA Lacrosse writers with input from coaches around the country, these rankings (also found here in our hub) will be updated weekly on Thursdays
Also considered (alphabetical order): Arapahoe (Colo.)
USA Lacrosse is a 501(c)3 tax-exempt charitable organization (EIN 52-1765246)
– Canandaigua Police said they have arrested a 35-year-old man who they say tried to steal gas from a business on South Main Street in Canandaigua
Anthony McDonald went into the business on South Main Street with a “dangerous instrument,” and demanded gas from the employee
McDonald was arrested and charged with one count of robbery in the first-degree
He was transported to Ontario County Jail on a $10,000 bail
Any person with disabilities who needs help accessing the content of the FCC Public file should contact Richard Reingold at rreingold@whec.com or 585-546-1701
artisanal pizza may be coming to Main Street — finally
in the minds of downtown Canandaigua business leaders
the owner of Ardor Park Artisanal Pizza on Park Avenue in Rochester
considers what he does and the proposed location a perfect fit
who formerly served as executive sous chef at Oak Hill Country Club in Pittsford
is looking to purchase the building at 123 S
which housed the former Thai By Night restaurant
The Canandaigua City Planning Commission on April 9 gave the OK for a special-use permit
His business mentality is one of artisanship and craft
which is similar to what he's found in the Canandaigua community
“Canandaigua’s Main Street is very much a lot of small businesses
very similar to what we have in Rochester,” Derhak said after the meeting
but his hope is to open in Canandaigua this year
The restaurant would be open for lunch and dinner
There is room inside to seat about 20 people
Pizzas will be prepared in a wood-fired oven, as they are at the Park Avenue location, which opened last April
The Rochester menu centers on pizzas made with a thin crust and baked to a slight char
as well as out-of-the-ordinary creations like the cacio e pepe
An assortment of small plates also may provide a tempting option for diners
A welcome reception in CanandaiguaDenise Chaapel
who is manager of the downtown Canandaigua Business Improvement District
said this style of pizza operation has been on the recruitment list of business leaders for years
“I believe they can implement everything that we are looking for in a downtown district,” Chaapel said
especially as it relates to quality of food
hours and the addition of another lunch venue
Commissioners mostly shared concerns about the building itself as opposed to the business
a ventilation pipe will be added to the Phoenix Street side of the building
both of which will be painted to blend together
The possibility of having a mural painted there down the road also was discussed
An awning will be repaired before opening and wrought-iron sign
“Our goal is to look like we’ve always been there,” Derhak said
People undoubtedly will know when it opens just by sight
Passersby may be enticed to visit by looking through the front window
“The goal is that you see the kitchen from the sidewalk
so you’re walking by and see the chef throwing the pizza in the air,” Derhak said
— Includes reporting by Democrat and Chronicle food writer Tracy Schuhmacher
who covers Rochester's food and drink scene
— The Ontario County Sheriff's Office announced Wednesday it made an arrest in a "lengthy" investigation into a Canandaigua-area drug ring
Monday as he exited the New York State Thruway in Manchester and took him into custody
authorities executed search warrants Monday night and into Tuesday — seizing a large amount of drugs and $6,879 in cash
Johnson is charged with first- and third-degree criminal possession of a controlled substance
"There is no doubt that the seizure of these drugs before they entered our neighborhoods and communities will prevent countless overdoses and likely save lives," Sheriff David Cirencione said in a statement
Johnson was arraigned Tuesday and remains in the Ontario County Jail without bail
Cirencione said the investigation continues and additional arrests are possible
Anyone with information on illegal drug activity is asked to call (585) 396-3784 (DRUG) or submit a tip on the "OntarioSheriffNY" mobile app
Garth Fagan Dance announced the launch of its inaugural Finger Lakes residency at the Fort Hill Performing Arts Center in Canandaigua from Friday
The internationally acclaimed dance company
founded by Distinguished Artistic Director Emeritus Garth Fagan
is celebrating its 54-year legacy of dance and worldwide touring
the dance company said that the performance will feature fresh creations by longtime principal dancers and Bessie Award winners
Artistic Director Norwood ‘PJ’ Pennewell and Executive Director Natalie Rogers-Cropper
The performances are also said to include timeless works and celebrated revivals by Fagan
"As Western New York’s leading artist-led, predominantly Black cultural institution, Garth Fagan Dance is thrilled to perform in Canandaigua
NY—a vibrant hub for the arts within the Finger Lakes region," the statement reads
Tickets for Garth Fagan Dance at the Fort Hills Performing Arts CenterMore: Garth Fagan stepping down from leadership of acclaimed Tony-winning dance company
Garth Fagan Dance's Finger Lakes residency will include four performances over three days
Mezzanine tickets for all showtimes are $50.96 on credit cards
Orchestra tickets are selling for $50.96 on credit cards
Tickets can be purchased at the Fort Hill Performing Arts Center Box Office on Tuesdays through Fridays from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., or online at https://fhpac.thundertix.com/
Fort Hill Performing Arts Center is located at 20 Fort Hill Avenue in Canandaigua
best known for his choreography of Broadway's The Lion King
Helpmann and Olivier Award-winning choreographer and founder of Garth Fagan Dance
where he received the Prime Minister’s Award
a Special Gold Musgrave Medal for his “Contribution to the World of Dance and Dance Theater” and in 2001 he received the Order of Distinction in the rank of commander
Fagan moved to Rochester in 1969 to become a faculty member of the State University of New York at Brockport
It was his students there who inspired him to open his first dance company
the Library of Congress acquired more than three decades of film
photos and performance memorabilia representing his storied career and the lessons he imparted to hundreds of students
The archive joined the likes of similar Library of Congress collections from acclaimed choreographers Bob Fosse
he was also honored by the Smithsonian's National Museum of African American History and Culture for his contributions to the performing arts
specifically his work on Broadway's The Lion King
Fagan stepped down from his leadership at Garth Fagan Dance in 2023 and "hand-picked his successors," Pennewell and Rogers-Cropper to be the new artistic and executive directors
so honored to have these two talented people that I have known
celebrated with for … decades … to now be taking my legacy
forward into tomorrow,” Fagan said in the news release at the time
He remains widely recognized as one of the most dynamic and original artists in the dance world
This story includes reporting from D&C reporter Genae Shields
CANANDAIGUA, NY — The city of Canandaigua will be getting $10 million in state funding for potential projects designed to improve Main Street and bring more people to the city, whether to live, work or visit.
Last fall, city officials applied for grant funding through the New York State Downtown Revitalization Initiative, or DRI. The city had applied in the past but had been unsuccessful in obtaining money until now.
Canandaigua Mayor Bob Palumbo said in a statement that he, City Council and other members of the team that put together the grant application are thankful for the funding.
“I look forward to seeing the projects we supported in our DRI proposal unlock opportunities that create new jobs, add housing and public amenities in our downtown,” Palumbo stated.
Gov. Kathy Hochul, who is focused on boosting housing availability, said in a statement that downtown Canandaigua is poised to be, and is already becoming, a residential and recreational hub of the Finger Lakes region.
“With anticipated growth related to programming and investment focused on the semiconductor industry, an investment in this transformation will help the region to put its best foot forward when recruiting future businesses, workers and residents,” Hochul stated.
State Sen. Pam Helming said in a statement this state investment not only supports housing and small business growth but can also help stimulate additional private investment in downtowns and in the broader community, referring to the city as well as the village of Phelps, which also received state funding.
Potential Canandaigua projects for fundingAs part of the application, city officials included a number of potential downtown area projects with the goal of bringing more people to downtown Canandaigua.
Potential projects range from adding a mix of upper-floor living options above several ground-floor businesses. One such example is the Bemis Block, renovation of each of the three floors of the 1850s structure would create more affordable rental units. Venue improvements at places like the Ontario County Chambger of Commerce, Peacemaker Brewing Co. and Lincoln on Main also were included in the application.
As part of the process to identify these projects, the community was surveyed to help determine priorities, which include the desire for a walkable and bikeable community and use of upper floors of downtown buildings for housing. In all, 97 surveys were submitted online, and a stack of paper surveys also were handed in.
“That was evidence that we’ve got a lot of things cooking here in Canandaigua and we invited the state to join in the kitchen with us,” Canandaigua City Manager John Goodwin said.
The successful awarding of the grant does not necessarily mean the projects included in the application will be funded and potential projects not included in the application may still be funded, according to Goodwin.
As part of the next step in the process, the Department of State will work with the city to put together a steering committee made up of municipal representatives, community leaders and other stakeholders and supported by a team of private sector experts and state planner, Goodwin said.
“This is not an overnight thing,” Goodwin said. “It takes time to put these projects together and make sure they have both the public and private financing involved. It’s going to be a great injection of resources into the city.”
As part of the governor’s announcement on Monday, the villages of Brockport and Phelps learned each will receive $4.5 million as the Finger Lakes winners of the third round of NY Forward.
Funding in Phelps would be focused on streetscaping and aesthetic upgrades, so that no matter what route a resident or visitor might take through downtown, the path from one destination to the next will be interesting and attractive, Hochul stated.
In a statement, Phelps Mayor Jim Cheney said the residents of Phelps have been working hard to attract more visitors, businesses and housing to the community; to make it a special place to live, work and play in; and, to fit into the Finger Lakes region's economic strategic plan.
"This investment by the state will help push us over the top in our revitalization efforts," Cheney stated. "It is important for small communities, such as the village of Phelps, to receive statewide taxpayer support such as this, to revitalize and thrive. It is in everyone's best interest to help our local communities' economies."
In Brockport, the village seeks to transform its historic downtown corridor into an accessible tourist destination and a home where visitors, residents and people of all abilities can recreate, socialize, live and age in comfort, Hochul stated.
Mike Murphy covers Canandaigua and other communities in Ontario County and writes the Eat, Drink and Be Murphy food and drink column. Follow him on X at @MPN_MikeMurphy.
CANANDAIGUA, NY — Stan Taylor and many neighbors of a proposed housing development in the city are looking for a project in which people can walk on sidewalks on both sides of the street, which has streetlights and trees, where neighbors talk with neighbors and where homeowners sit out on their front porches.
“This is the type of community we’re looking for,” said Taylor, who is a former member of the Canandaigua Planning Commission and who is not opposed to the development of the site.
Many of his neighbors are saying that a plan for the 79-home Waterchase subdivision is not it.
A petition with 91 signatures in opposition to the project was presented as part of a public hearing March 31.
Canandaigua Homes LLC is looking for City Council to OK the rezoning of 27 acres of property from residential to planned unit development, which gives the developers relief from some city design standards, in order to build 79 detached single-family homes in the area of North Road, Kennedy Street and Spencer Lane in the northeast section of the city. Ryan Homes would build the homes, if the rezoning is approved.
City Council made no decision on the rezoning after the public hearing but members later this month could discuss concerns they heard from neighbors about sidewalks on one side of the street and not both, drainage, impact on wildlife and construction traffic, among others.
Rob Brenner, a partner for the developer, said the homes would run in the $300,000 price range and is an attempt to provide housing for young families and the people who work in Canandaigua but would otherwise be unable to afford to live here.
When the project was first proposed, Brenner said design standards will be adhered to the maximum extent possible while making it economically viable.
“I came in with exactly what we need to move forward,” Brenner said.
The application has been reviewed by the Canandaigua Planning Commission, which would review a more detailed site plan if the property is rezoned, Ontario County Planning Board and city staff. City Council also acted on an early application that started the process.
Referring to an Ontario County housing study, there is a need for housing in the county, Brenner said during the hearing.
“So, we’re doing our part in proposing this project,” Brenner said.
Mike Murphy covers Canandaigua and other communities in Ontario County and writes the Eat, Drink and Be Murphy food and drink column. Follow him on X at @MPN_MikeMurphy.
CANANDAIGUA, NY — Another housing plan — the third in five years — is being proposed for a section of vacant property in the northeast section of the city of Canandaigua.
Canandaigua Homes LLC is proposing a zoning change on 27 acres of land in the Stewart Place, Kennedy Street and North Road neighborhood.
If approved, the change would lead to the construction of 85 three- to four-bedroom homes in the so-called Waterchase subdivision and most, if not all, would be in the $300,000 price range. Home sizes would range from 1,700 to 2,300 square feet.
These homes would serve the workforce in the Canandaigua area who otherwise cannot afford to live in the area, according to Rob Brenner, a partner in the company who spoke Feb. 10 at City Council’s planning committee.
The proposal comes during a time of risk for Ontario County economic development, as county government and business leaders say the region faces a significant shortage of affordable housing, making it difficult for local employers to attract and retain workers.
The company acquired the property from Chrisantha Construction Co., which had proposed housing plans for the property in 2021 and 2024 but for various reasons the homes were not developed.
In the new plan, Brenner said a section of land could be left as parkland — which had been a sticking point in one of the prior proposals — and the company would pay parks and recreation impact fees to the city. The other option would be to use it for additional housing units.
The company is seeking to rezone the property from its current residential designation to planned unit development, which would allow for deviations from design standards such as having sidewalks on one, not two sides of the road, and garages set in front of the home as opposed to behind.
Next steps for proposed Canandaigua housing planMembers of the planning committee accepted this sketch plan, which means now City Council will consider the application as complete at its Feb. 24 meeting. This would then set up an overall, more in-depth approval process.
The application would be referred to the Canandaigua Planning Commission, Ontario County Planning Board and city staff for review, before coming back to City Council for a vote on rezoning the land.
“There will be public hearings along the way,” Canandaigua City Manager John Goodwin said.
Depending on how the approval process goes, work at the site could begin later this year, Brenner said.
CANANDAIGUA, NY — City residents may have a contested race for Canandaigua mayor to decide in November.
Councilmember Thomas Lyon, who is serving as an at-large member of City Council, will challenge Republican Mayor Bob Palumbo, who is in his sixth year of office.
In an email, Lyon said his more than a decade of experience with planning and economic development includes working on several long-range plans and projects, many of them in collaboration with dedicated residents, businesses, and local, regional and state agencies and representatives.
Canandaigua has many known and unknown challenges and opportunities ahead, including, but not limited to the closing of the Ontario County landfill, implementation of the recent Downtown Revitalization Initiative grant award, increasing harmful algal bloom impacts on the safety of Canandaigua Lake, improving access to quality housing and capital improvements at both the water treatment and water resource recovery facilities, Lyon said.
“This is not to mention maintaining sound fiscal management, while making sure all departments are properly staffed, trained and equipped during continued inflationary times,” Lyon said. “... I regularly work with key stakeholders to advance a variety of major projects and priorities, often simultaneously.”
Palumbo, who took office after unseating longtime Canandaigua Maor Ellen Polimeni in 2019, said he looks forward to a good, clean race.
“I think I served the city well in the five-plus years I’ve been mayor,” Palumbo said. “What is best for the city of Canandaigua, the staff and public safety have been number one in my book. I think I have done a good job representing the residents and businesses of Canandaigua and I definitely look forward to continuing that the next four years.”
The Canandaigua City Democratic Committee on Monday announced its candidate slate for the 2025 elections, which include reelection bids for at-large seats by Councilmembers Sim Covington, Doug Merrill and Gwen Van Laeken. Merrill and Van Laeken ran last fall to serve out the remainder of two terms of former councilmembers.
The committee also endorsed John “JT” Squires for the fourth at-large seat up this year.
Republicans are planning to endorse two at-large candidates, Ron Ouimette and Jadon Hoffman.
Candidates will be passing petitions this month to secure spots on the ballot.
CANANDAIGUA, NY — Residents in the town of Canandaigua will be deciding on three contested races — including a battle for town supervisor — for town office in November.
Incumbent Supervisor Jared Simpson, a Republican, will face a challenge from Democrat Don Cotter, who co-founded CDGA Coffee Co. and Naked Dove Brewing Co. Democrats also are running two candidates for Town Board against a Republican incumbent and newcomer.
Cotter said he has managed large corporations and small businesses and locally in the nonprofit arena. Running for office marks the next chapter of his life.
“Part of what drove me to run is a desire to bring representation to the town government. Canandaigua’s town board is comprised of only Republican board members, leaving 60% of town residents without representation, and lacking diverse perspectives,” Cotter said. “Our belief is that in electing our slate, we will balance the board, allowing it to reflect the thoughts and values of all town residents.”
Simpson, who was elected supervisor in 2021 by defeating former Supervisor Sam Casella, was a member of the Town Board prior to his serving as supervisor. This year, the former Canandaigua City School District educator was elected chairman of the Ontario County Board of Supervisors.
Simpson said he and the Town Board have shown continued support for public safety in town, particularly related to intersection improvements and the replacement of streetlights on Route 332.
A revamped website that is more accessible and new town app that provides residents with useful information, as well as scheduling more public board workshops and having boards meet in public to talk about goals and objectives, are examples of a focus on increased transparency.
“I’m looking forward to the opportunity to run again,” Simpson said. “I’m looking forward to the opportunity to prove my case.”
Meet the Town Board candidates Bobby Ellis, who is owner and operator of Charismatic Entertainment, and Scott Hall, who also is a small business owner, are endorsed by the Canandaigua Democratic Committee for two open seats on the Town Board.
They will challenge Republican incumbent board member Terry Fennelly, who has served on the Town Board since January 2010, and newcomer Mick Szoczei, a former State Police troop commander. Former Councilmember Adeline Rudolph resigned from the seat and now serves as Republican election commissioner.
Republicans also endorsed Town Clerk Crystelyn Laske and Town Highway Superintendent Jim Fletcher, both incumbents, and Rick Roxin for town justice.
The Democrats did not endorse in those races.
Flash flood warning until 12:45 Tuesday morning for portions of Genesee, Livingston and Wyoming counties
RadarMan rescued from capsized boat on Canandaigua Lakeby WHAM
Gorham, N.Y. — One man was hospitalized after a boat capsized on Canandaigua Lake Friday afternoon.
The Ontario County Sheriff's Office responded to the scene in Gorham around 2 p.m., finding two of the three men who were onboard had safely made it to shore, while the other was clinging to the boat roughly 200 yards from land.
The stranded person was rescued and taken to safety, according to authorities.
Investigators determined the occupants were employees of Canandaigua Boatworks and were testing the functionality of the boat after completing mechanical repairs when they struck debris, believed to be a log, causing the vessel to capsize.
One of the men was taken to FF Thompson Hospital for possible hypothermia, police said.
Armstrong Williams takes on the news of the week and asks the questions you want answered. Don’t miss our weekly town hall.
AG: Police justified in deadly shooting of suspect following pursuit in Canandaiguaby WHAM
— New York's top prosecutor determined the fatal shooting of a suspect by police in Canandaigua was justified
The state's attorney general's office released a report Wednesday about the deadly encounter on Feb
between law enforcement and Brandon Zurkan
The incident started with a 911 call reporting a "firecracker or gunshot" that came from a vehicle in West Bloomfield
where he reportedly continued to drive erratically
The pursuit ended when Zurkan crashed into a curb at the corner of Main and Parrish streets before he got out of the car with a gun and walked towards officers on Green Street
ignoring their orders to drop the gun and stop moving
BACKGROUND: Ontario County Sheriff's Office closes investigation into fatal officer-involved shooting
The report concludes police were justified in using deadly force after Zurkan raised a gun in their direction
Ontario County Sheriff David Cirencione and Chief Matthew Nielsen released a statement on the AG's report:
The Canandaigua Town Clerk's office will be closed Monday
Any payments or paperwork for the Town can be dropped off in the secure drop box located at the front entrance of the Town Hall
located at 5440 Route 5 and 20 West in Canandaigua
contact Town Clerk Crystelyn Laske at (585) 394-1120
CANANDAIGUA — City officials appear ready to bring on two new firefighters to bolster what some are saying is an understaffed Canandaigua Fire Department
But what that means is a deputy fire chief position that fire officials also say is needed will not be filled
Canandaigua City Council by a 7-2 vote approved on March 31 the decision to hire two firefighters
One is replacing a Canandaigua firefighter who transferred to another department while the other is a new position
One is scheduled to start April 7; the other's start date has not been determined
Both are transferring to Canandaigua from other fire departments
The first year cost of the two firefighters is approximately $250,000
according to City Manager John Goodwin; the year one cost for the assistant fire chief position would have been $138,000 and would have risen to $160,000 afterward
The city’s 2025 budget did not include funding for new firefighters but did include funding for the deputy fire chief position to oversee the fire inspection program
the person would be expected to assist with procurement
maintenance and replacement of equipment and help pursue grant opportunities
Fire Chief Frank Magnera told councilmembers the position is needed
but having the extra firefighter would be beneficial
adding Monday that he believes the ongoing study will recommend adding more firefighters
The deputy chief position could be revisited later in the year
The decision last year to hold off on hiring more firefighters touched off controversy
with most councilmembers opting to see what the study recommends and go from there
which also includes a study of police and emergency medical services
Councilmember Michael Mills said there are lots of positives in hiring two candidates now
but uncomfortable budget decisions were made and a lot of heat was taken for the decision council arrived at last December
That decision was seen as the best solution for the time being
as Councilmember Erich Dittmar characterized it
“We went through a process and process does matter,” Mills said in voting against the hiring
who is a former longtime Canandaigua volunteer firefighter who is seeking reelection this year
supported hiring firefighters as part of this year's budget and voted in favor of this hiring
"Having an extra person there really helps
both from the firefighting standpoint and the overtime standpoint," Palumbo said
who is running against Palumbo for mayor and who initially supported holding off on hiring to wait for the study recommendations
cited new information about overtime and the needs of the department in voting for the hiring now
teams and individuals will gear up to run into the chilly waters of Canandaigua Lake at Kershaw Park for the 18th annual Canandaigua Polar Plunge
Participants will collect donations to help sponsor their plunge to support the Special Olympics New York
the higher the incentives and prizes will be
this tentative schedule is subject to change
The organization suggests checking the website and your email for information from Kelley Ligozio at kligozio@nyso.org to ensure you have the correct timeline before the day of the event
Teams & fundraisingAccording to Special Olympics New York
whether on a team or participating individually
must raise $100 in donations to participate
Registration is available on the Polar Plunge website
Everyone who raises at least $100 will receive the official Canandaigua Polar Plunge incentive: a sweatshirt. Those who raise over $250 will qualify for additional incentives, which will be sent out after the event. The full list of prizes can be found on the Polar Plunge's incentives page
through the mail or handed in at the registration area during the day of the plunge
For questions or issues regarding submitting your donations
contact Kelley Ligozio at kligozio@nyso.org or (585)358-0603
detailsWhat: The 18th annual Canandaigua Polar Plunge for the Special Olympics New York will take place on Saturday
Where: Participants will plunge into Canandaigua Lake from Kershaw Park
located at 155 Lakeshore Drive in Canandaigua
Hours: Registration on the day of the plunge will be open from 10 a.m
with the plunge expected to take place at noon
Registration and donations: To start a team, join an existing team or register as an individual, visit https://events.nyso.org/site/TR?fr_id=3161&pg=entry
Donations can also be made through the Polar Plunge website or can be turned in on the day of the event
Tips: The Special Olympics New York suggests that plungers bring a plastic bag for wet clothes and to wear either Crocs
old sneakers or water shoes as flip-flops easily fall off
The organization also suggests to not wear any jewelry or items you are afraid of losing and to put your cellphone in a small plastic bag if you wish to bring it
For a full rundown of information and FAQs, visit https://events.nyso.org/site/TRsid=1294&pg=informational&fr_id=3161
– The Canandaigua Police Department arrested two 16-year-olds
one from Canandaigua and the other from Geneva
in connection to several burglaries in the area of Wood Street and Gorham Street on February 20
At least six garages and sheds were burglarized
and some of the stolen items were sold online
Both teens were issued appearance tickets and were referred to Ontario County Probation
but they have not been able to identify some of the owners
Callaway 300 Range Finder and miscellaneous golf equipment
If you are missing property or have any information
contact Detective Liberty at Tliberty@canandaiguanewyork.gov or 585-337-2107
— A portion of State Route 332 was closed for nearly seven hours after a crash Friday
The Ontario County Sheriff's Office said a freightliner truck crashed into the back of a tractor-trailer that was stopped at a red light on 332 at Airport Road in Canandaigua
The driver of the freightliner was issued a traffic ticket
CANANDAIGUA — A Canandaigua man is facing felony drug charges after what the Ontario County Sheriff’s Office called a lengthy investigation into the distribution of cocaine in the area
24 with first-degree criminal possession of a controlled substance
and third-degree criminal possession of a controlled substance
Johnson was arraigned in Ontario County CAP Court on Feb
25 and remains in the Ontario County Jail without bail pending further court action
Johnson was arrested when officers stopped his vehicle as he exited the state Thruway at Exit 43 in Manchester
investigators said multiple search warrants were executed throughout the night on Feb 24 and into the following day
assisted by officers from multiple law enforcement agencies
said they seized: 1.5 kilograms of cocaine; 9,108 tabs of LSD; six pounds of marijuana
6.7 pounds of mushrooms (with suspected psilocybin); 1.6 kilograms of ketamine; 27.9 ounces of MDMA; 92 Ecstasy pills; and $6,879 in cash
Ontario County Sheriff David Cirencione characterized Johnson's arrest as "significant."
“There is no doubt that the seizure of these drugs before they entered our neighborhoods and communities will prevent countless overdoses and likely save lives,” Cirencione said in a prepared statement on Wednesday
The Ontario County Sheriff’s Office was assisted in this investigation by members of the Wayne County Sheriff’s Office
Ontario County Distirct Attorney’s Office and U
“My sincere thanks to the men and women of the Ontario County Sheriff’s Office and our law enforcement partners who have worked diligently on the front lines over the past several months to bring this case to the resolution we have,” Cirencione stated
The investigation remains active and additional arrests are possible
Anyone wishing to report illegal drug activity may do so by calling 585-396-3784 (DRUG) or by selecting the “Submit a Tip” tab on the Sheriff's Office's Mobile App
– A brush fire happened in Canandaigua over the weekend
The Cheshire Volunteer Fire Department responded to the fire on State Route 21 near Nott Road at approximately 1:15 p.m
The fire was brought under control in about 40 minutes
but the area remained closed for about two hours
Fire officials estimated that around 2,000 square feet of land were burned
The cause of the fire has not been determined
AI assisted with the formatting of this story. Click here to see how WHEC News10NBC uses AI
NY — A Rochester journalist who was a familiar face on TV screens for nearly 60 years will close out the 13th season of the George M
Retired WHAM TV-13 anchor Don Alhart will be the special guest for "Reflections from the Anchor Desk: A 58-Year Journey Through the News." The event will take place at 4 p.m
Alhart, who retired last June, will provide perspective on the evolution of news media and its impact on society
a retired journalist and Alhart’s long-time co-anchor
Ryan is director of community engagement and communications for Canandaigua National Bank
How to get ticketsTickets are available for $25 plus fees
To purchase tickets, visit gmeforum.org or call the FHPAC box office at 585-412-6043
The forum is committed to engaging people in thoughtful
stimulating and informed discourse on intellectual and cultural matters
The forum aims to foster a deeper understanding of the world
encourage meaningful conversations and grow a stronger local community
attendees will be the first to hear the announcement of the upcoming season’s speaker lineup for the George M
Emmy Award-winning comedian John Mulaney will bring his new stand-up comedy tour to Constellation Brands-Marvin Sands Performing Arts Center
Mulaney announced the first leg of his highly anticipated tour, "John Mulaney: Mister Whatever," which will stop in 31 cities across North America
The tour will come to the CMAC stage on Saturday
comedian and actor is now also a host of his new Netflix show
"Everybody's Live With John Mulaney." His most recent stand-up special
The special also received the 2024 Critics' Choice Award for Best Comedy Special (non-televised)
Tickets for the artist presale will go on sale at 10 a.m. on Wednesday, April 23. To register for pre-sale tickets, visit https://www.johnmulaney.com/
CMAC's summer concert season schedule includes:
President Donald Trump makes a major sports announcement. The announcement comes amid reports Washington, D.C. will host the 2027 NFL Draft.
WATCHTenney responds to protest held outside her Canandaigua officeby WHAM
Claudia Tenney addressed a protest that took place Monday outside her office in Canandaigua
Hundreds of people in New York's 24th Congressional District gathered to express their dissatisfaction with Tenney's representation and a "lack of attention" to their needs.
Tenney said she's listening to the group's worries.
"We want to hear their concerns, but we want to make sure that they're also doing this in a productive way and in a way that's going to help our communities, so we're certainly willing to listen," she said.
"We just hope that they articulate a vision for America that's fair to everyone and meets the needs of NY-24," Tenney continued.
Canandaigua, N.Y. — An Ontario County is set to appear in court after he was accused of neglecting his dog.
Dennis Keyser, 61, of Canandaigua, was charged with animal cruelty and neglect Thursday after his neighbors found his dog abandoned outside his house, according to the Ontario County Humane Society.
The dog, a 12-year-old Jack Russell named Louie, was reported wandering around the Brickyard Road area by himself.
Deputies who responded to the scene around 3 p.m. Saturday said the entranceway to the house was littered with feces and garbage. Nobody answered when the deputies called into the house, which reportedly had "a putrid odor."
A vehicle was parked in the driveway at the time, and a door was open, but Louie was unable to get inside the house. A neighbor reported not seeing Keyser for several weeks.
After deputies determined nobody was inside the house, the Humane Society was summoned to seize Louie. The Humane Society said Louie's toenails were so overgrown that he could not walk comfortably.
Keyser is set to appear in Canandaigua Town Court at a later date. Louie will remain at Happy Tails Animal Shelter until the case is adjudicated.
RadarGoodness delivers in the clutch; Athena downs Canandaiguaby Paul Gotham for Pickin' Splinters
— Parker Goodness came on in relief with bases loaded and no outs in the third inning of a 3-3 game on Tuesday
the junior right-hander had retired the side without any of those baserunners advancing
and host Greece Athena went on to defeat Canandaigua
"I had to do it for my guys," Goodness said of his performance on the mound. "Back against the wall, that's what I'm here to do." READ MORE.
– Five people are facing murder charges after New York State Police say a 24-year-old was tortured repeatedly for a month before he was killed
Investigators have not said if the victim being transgender played a role in his murder
He was reported missing in early February after his family lost contact with him and he was last seen in Canandaigua
Nordquist is from Minnesota and traveled to the Finger Lakes area last September
Captain Kelly Swift of the NYSP Bureau of Criminal Investigations said Nordquist endured “prolonged physical and physiological abuse” starting in December
was at Friday’s press conference while the family traveled from Minnesota
“It’s disgusting the things that are out there
I pray for [Sam’s] family and […] friends.”
“In my 20-year law enforcement career
this is one of the most horrific crimes I have ever investigated,” Swift said
Police made the arrests after searching a room at Patty’s Lodge Motel in Hopewell
Troopers didn’t specify exactly where the abuse happened
“Our investigation has revealed a deeply disturbing pattern of abuse that ultimately resulted in Sam’s tragic death,” Swift said
and they were devastated by what’s happened to Sam
and it’s a terrible thing that happened
But it’s a nice thing to see the community come together and work together
Patty’s Lodge Motel was the last location where Nordquist was known to be staying
Troopers were looking for him in the Geneva or Canandaigua areas
Troopers say these people have been charged with second-degree murder:
Troopers are still investigating the murder and are asking anyone with information to call (585)-398-4100 or email crimetip@troopers.ny.gov
Swift could not comment on the relationship between Nordquist and the suspects or the relationship between the suspects with one another
Next steps include searching the suspect cell phones for electronic evidence
You can see the full news conference here:
— The Ontario County Sheriff’s Office says there was a emergency response at Canandaigua Lake Friday afternoon after a boat overturned
The Sheriff’s Office said three employees of “Boat Works,” were testing out a boat when they hit some debris in the lake and the boat overturned
Two of the people made it to shore themselves
while the third person was recused by another boat and taken to Thompson Hospital for possible mild hypothermia
Here are photos sent in by a viewer of the response