The big news that struck the region — and the country — came from a leaked draft Supreme Court opinion on abortion, but this week also saw two big changes in leadership at the county and state levels. Meanwhile, the region's COVID-19 cases appear to be trending in the right direction and a nonprofit celebrates a significant milestone in its efforts to improve Syracuse city neighborhoods. We also launched the first in a series of stories digging into the legacy of a landmark law that is turning 50 this year.
1. The push to protect New York's abortion providers from states that may ban the procedure
A Syracuse-area state lawmaker plans to help move forward legislation that appears more urgent after a leaked document shows the Supreme Court may permit outlawing the procedure.
2. Gov. Hochul chooses Congressman Antonio DelGado to be the state's next lieutenant governor
The governor’s choice of a new second in command comes three weeks after former lieutenant governor Brian Benjamin was indicted on federal corruption charges and resigned from office.
3. Onondaga County health commissioner Dr. Indu Gupta to step down
Dr. Indu Gupta will depart her post this summer after more than 7 years as the county's leading public health official.
4. Central New York is on the other side of a recent COVID surge, Upstate doctor says
The shift comes after the region experienced a coronavirus case rate higher than the state.
5. NYS Attorney General continues oversight of Green National properties
They include the troubled Skyline Apartment complex after the company failed to fully address code violations as required under their 60-day agreement.
6. Increased emergency diaper need continues for CNY families even after pandemic peak
Mother’s Day is a reminder that there are many moms in Central New York facing a daily crisis of diaper needs for their babies.
7. Transgender Teens Navigate High School
High school is already difficult terrain. Those who transition genders as teens face even greater challenges.
This story is part of Entitled to Equality, a collaboration between Syracuse University's Newhouse School, The STAND and WAER, examining the 50th anniversary of Title IX and the perspectives on the law’s protections.
8. SU softball struggling to build winning program a decade after conference switch
Syracuse takes on North Carolina at Skytop Softball Stadium Friday in an attempt to make the ACC Tournament, where they have yet to win a game in nine years in the conference.
9. Conservationists worry about impact of lake trail extension on bald eagle habitat and human health
Work has begun on the 1/3 mile path on what’s called Murphy’s Island, the contaminated 40 acre piece of land behind Destiny USA and the railroad tracks. The project is four years in the making.
10. Syracuse Land Bank's 500th demolition illustrates ongoing efforts to stabilize Syracuse communities
With its 10th anniversary approaching, the Land Bank expects to double demolitions.