Latest News
April 16, 2026
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Tompkins County Ends AI License Plate Reader Program Amid Privacy Concerns: Tompkins County legislators have voted to discontinue their agreement with Flock Safety, resulting in the termination of an AI-powered license plate reader program. The decision follows significant public opposition, with critics citing concerns over surveillance and potential misuse of data, particularly relating to federal immigration enforcement. Although some officials noted the system was not comprehensive surveillance, the county will now focus on maintaining anti-violence funding and may consider alternatives such as mobile camera trailers. Some community members and law enforcement remain concerned about future public safety strategies. (Source: Fingerlakes1.com on Apr 16)
April 15, 2026
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Ithaca Launches $4.7 Million Substation Upgrade to Improve Power Reliability: Ithaca has begun a significant power infrastructure upgrade intended to enhance service reliability for over 5,000 local customers. New York State Electric & Gas is installing a new capacitor bank at the Cayuga Heights substation, aiming to reduce outages and improve electricity flow. The $4.7 million project started in March and is scheduled for completion in 2027. This local upgrade forms part of a larger $46 million effort and connects to a statewide grid improvement plan. (Source: Fingerlakes1.com on Apr 15)
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Ithaca Police Resolve Crisis Safely After Standoff on East Green Street: Police in downtown Ithaca resolved a tense situation late Tuesday night involving a person barricaded with a knife in an apartment on East Green Street. The standoff lasted more than two hours, during which the individual reportedly damaged property and engaged in self-harm. Specialized response teams and negotiators were ultimately able to remove the person without injury, and the individual was taken to a medical center for evaluation. Several local emergency agencies provided assistance at the scene. (Source: Fingerlakes1.com on Apr 15)
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Danby Ethics Board Finds Conflict in Town Supervisor's Hiring Recommendation: In Danby, a town supervisor's recommendation of his tenant for a local bookkeeping job led to a violation of ethics rules due to nondisclosure of their relationship. The supervisor had also advocated for making the job full-time and increasing its salary. After an ethics board determined the non-disclosure broke conflict-of-interest regulations, the hiring decision was rescinded and the process restarted. Town officials are preparing to review the matter in a public meeting. (Source: Fingerlakes1.com on Apr 15)
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Tompkins County Legislature Votes to Terminate Flock Safety Camera Contract: The Tompkins County Legislature has voted overwhelmingly to end its contract with Flock Safety, a company supplying AI-powered cameras used to monitor and track vehicles. The decision follows sustained advocacy by local residents and activists, who raised privacy and surveillance concerns regarding the use of this technology by county law enforcement. This move mirrors a similar action recently taken by the City of Ithaca. The county will no longer use Flock cameras to aid law enforcement activities. (Source: The Ithaca Voice on Apr 15)
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Ithaca Police Safely Resolve Overnight Standoff on East Green Street: A prolonged standoff unfolded late Tuesday night in downtown Ithaca when officers responded to a report of a person in crisis at 118 East Green Street. The individual entered another resident’s apartment and barricaded themselves in a bathroom while armed. After several hours of negotiation, police resolved the incident without injuries. Authorities have not released further details about the outcome or possible charges. (Source: Finger Lakes Daily News on Apr 15)
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Ithaca City Leaders Delay Decision on At-Will Employment Changes: Ithaca officials have postponed progress on a proposal that would end at-will employment, citing the need for additional data before making decisions. Proponents believe a just-cause requirement would better protect employees from abrupt termination. However, opponents express concerns that such changes could increase costs and legal liabilities for local businesses. The city committee is set to conduct further research as legal review is postponed. (Source: Fingerlakes1.com on Apr 15)
April 14, 2026
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Ithaca Considers Extending Review on Proposal to End At-Will Employment: The Ithaca Common Council is continuing discussions on a proposal to end at-will employment for city workers. After a working group missed several deadlines, the council established a special committee to further study the issue and gather additional public input. The committee has now held its second meeting, focusing on adopting a 'just-cause' standard, which is currently rare among municipalities. The council has also extended the timeline for a legal opinion on the measure. (Source: The Ithaca Voice on Apr 14)
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Angry Mom Records in Ithaca Receives New York State Empire Award: Angry Mom Records, a well-known record store in Ithaca, has been honored with the New York State Empire Award for its long-standing contributions to music, affordability, and local community engagement. Founded in 2009 by George Johann, the store has become a cultural center on The Commons and is one of the area's few all-ages music venues. The award was presented by State Senator Lea Webb in advance of Record Store Day. Angry Mom Records remains popular for its diverse selection and frequent live events. (Source: Fingerlakes1.com on Apr 14)
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State Approves Water Permit for Lansing Plant Despite Data Center Concerns: The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation has approved renewed and modified water use permits for the Cayuga Operating Company's power plant in Lansing. These updates come after local county legislatures and residents urged the agency to deny the permits due to controversy surrounding a possible data center project on the site. The permitted activities do not directly address the proposed data center, according to state officials. Community apprehension remains over potential environmental effects. (Source: The Ithaca Voice on Apr 14)
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Albany Budget Talks Drag On as Lawmakers Approve Additional Stopgap Funding: New York State lawmakers have passed a third budget extender valued at $3.4 billion, increasing total interim funding to $7.4 billion while negotiations surpass the two-week deadline. Policy disagreements, such as proposed climate law modifications and car insurance reforms, continue to slow progress. Leaders from both parties acknowledge that negotiations remain far from resolution. Ongoing delays are likely as legislators work to address unresolved issues. (Source: Fingerlakes1.com on Apr 14)
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Cornell Study Identifies Large Population of Ground-Nesting Bees in Ithaca Cemetery: Researchers from Cornell University have documented an estimated 5.5 million ground-nesting bees inhabiting a 1.5-acre section of Ithaca's East Lawn Cemetery. The bees, identified as Andrena regularis, represent one of the largest recorded groupings of their kind, surpassing the bee population of many managed hives. The study, published in Apidologie, emphasizes the significance of solitary ground-nesting bees in crop pollination, particularly for apples, a vital New York crop. This finding highlights the bees’ critical yet often overlooked ecological role. (Source: Fingerlakes1.com on Apr 14)
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Danby Town Supervisor Faces Ethics Scrutiny Over Bookkeeper Hiring: A recent ethics advisory opinion determined that Danby Town Supervisor Joel Gagnon breached conflict-of-interest guidelines after he recommended his tenant for the town bookkeeper position without revealing their relationship. The situation began at a February board meeting where Gagnon not only proposed his tenant but also suggested expanding the role with a significant increase in salary and benefits. Board members were unaware of the tenant relationship during the vote. The ethics concern has prompted further examination of the town’s hiring practices. (Source: The Ithaca Voice on Apr 14)
April 12, 2026
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Ithaca Names Dr. Kehar Khan as New Human Resources Director: The City of Ithaca has introduced Dr. Kehar Khan as its new Director of Human Resources. With over twenty years of expertise in workforce management, Dr. Khan has contributed to public, nonprofit, and academic organizations, emphasizing improved employee relations and streamlined workforce systems. City leaders anticipate Dr. Khan will advance organizational effectiveness. This appointment marks a new phase for Ithaca's human resources leadership. (Source: Finger Lakes Daily News on Apr 12)
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Above-Average Temperatures and Periodic Rain Expected in Tompkins County: Tompkins County is likely to experience unseasonably warm conditions this week, with daytime highs forecasted to rise into the 70s and low 80s. While the milder temperatures bring a summery feel, the region will also see frequent rain showers and increased humidity due to passing storm systems. These showers may dampen outdoor activities but are expected to lower fire risks and support plant growth. Weather trends are influenced by high pressure shifting toward the Atlantic coast. (Source: The Ithaca Voice on Apr 12)
April 10, 2026
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Seneca Street Parking Garage Closed in Ithaca Due to Falling Debris: The Seneca Street parking garage in Ithaca was closed after concrete debris fell from its third floor, leading to urgent safety concerns. Officials shut down the structure and nearby sidewalks following inspections that revealed significant deterioration of the garage's façade. Public transit service at the adjacent bus stop was also suspended, and drivers with permits were redirected to the Green Street garage. Authorities are asking drivers to promptly remove any vehicles still inside the facility. (Source: Fingerlakes1.com on Apr 10)
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Two Residents Die in Groton Mobile Home Fire: A fire at Valley View Mobile Home Park in Groton early Friday morning resulted in the deaths of two residents, a man and his father. Emergency crews responded shortly after midnight to find the home fully ablaze and worked to extract the occupants, but both individuals ultimately succumbed to injuries. The incident required response from several local fire departments and the Tompkins County Sheriff's Department. Authorities are continuing to investigate the cause of the fire. (Source: The Ithaca Voice on Apr 10)
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New York's Highest Court to Decide If Landlords Must Accept Section 8 Vouchers: The New York Court of Appeals is set to review whether landlords are required to participate in the federal Section 8 housing voucher program. The case centers on a legal challenge by Ithaca Renting Co., owned by Jason Fane, following litigation initiated by the state attorney general regarding the company's refusal to accept Section 8 tenants. Previous court rulings favored the landlord, citing constitutional concerns over search and seizure. The outcome may clarify statewide obligations for landlords regarding housing choice protections. (Source: The Ithaca Voice on Apr 10)
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Ithaca Closes Seneca Street Parking Garage Due to Falling Debris Concerns: The Seneca Street Parking Garage in Ithaca has been temporarily closed after concerns arose about falling concrete debris from its third floor. Officials from the fire marshal’s office and the city engineering department conducted an inspection and identified multiple areas of concern regarding the structure’s condition. Public safety was cited as the primary reason for the closure. The city has not indicated when the garage will reopen pending further assessment. (Source: Finger Lakes Daily News on Apr 10)
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Jane Bley Ridley, Noted Culinary Educator in Ithaca, Dies at 71: Jane Bley Ridley, a prominent chef instructor and devoted member of the Ithaca community, died February 2, 2026, at age 71 after battling cancer. Ridley graduated from Binghamton University and the Culinary Institute of America, later teaching food service and culinary arts at Cornell University. Known for her mentorship and infectious enthusiasm, she was dedicated to her students and colleagues. Her passion for food and education deeply influenced those she knew. (Source: The Ithaca Voice on Apr 10)
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Ithaca Names Carissa Ralbovsky as New City Controller: Carissa Ralbovsky has been appointed as the new Controller for the City of Ithaca, where she will oversee all financial activities as chief financial officer. Ralbovsky brings over ten years of background in public finance, budgeting, and municipal operations to the position. Prior to this appointment, she served as a chief operating officer in the public sector. City officials expect her experience to support effective fiscal management. (Source: Finger Lakes Daily News on Apr 10)
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Rep. Josh Riley Responds to Trump's Threats Against Iranian Civilians: Representative Josh Riley publicly condemned former President Donald Trump's recent social media statements, which included threats against Iranian civilian infrastructure if Iran did not comply with U.S. demands regarding the Strait of Hormuz. Riley's response followed criticism from local political groups and Ithaca's mayor, who accused him of not responding quickly enough to Trump's remarks. Riley reiterated his longstanding opposition to U.S. military actions in Iran. The situation prompted renewed discussion on local leadership and accountability. (Source: The Ithaca Voice on Apr 10)
April 9, 2026
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Audit Reveals Significant Financial Oversight Lapses in Ithaca City Government: A recent audit by the New York State Comptroller's Office uncovered significant deficiencies in the City of Ithaca's financial oversight, including delayed recording of over 4,000 transactions amounting to about $10 million. The city also failed to enter more than $1 million in approved budget adjustments into its accounting system, distorting financial records. From 2020 to 2024, city officials did not receive essential monthly reports, hindering their ability to monitor finances effectively. These issues limited transparency and impeded sound decision-making. (Source: Fingerlakes1.com on Apr 9)
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Ithaca Appoints New City Controller and HR Director After Extended Vacancies: The City of Ithaca has filled two significant department head positions following extended periods under interim leadership. Carissa Ralbovsky will assume the role of city controller on May 6, bringing over a decade of public finance experience. The city also appointed a new human resources director, addressing vacancies that persisted for more than a year in HR and two years in the controller position. These hires aim to stabilize city management and improve operational efficiency. (Source: The Ithaca Voice on Apr 9)
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Report Finds Ithaca Living Wage Tops $25 Amid Rising Costs: A new report finds that a single adult in Tompkins County now requires at least $25.08 per hour, or nearly $52,170 annually, to meet basic living expenses. This figure marks a slight increase from last year, but researchers caution that the full impact of cost increases may not yet be reflected. Housing remains the largest expense while food prices have risen by almost 15%, marking the sharpest increase. County officials are considering a local minimum wage in response to these findings. (Source: Fingerlakes1.com on Apr 9)
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Tompkins County Establishes April 9 as Local News Day to Support Media Outlets: The Tompkins County Legislature has officially designated April 9 as Local News Day, aiming to celebrate and highlight the vital role of local media organizations. This initiative was introduced to raise awareness about challenges facing regional journalism, such as widespread newsroom closures and staffing reductions. Organizations like Press Forward, Montana Free Press, and the American Journalism Project are among the leading supporters of this effort. Numerous Ithaca-based media outlets participate in providing timely news coverage for the community. (Source: The Ithaca Voice on Apr 9)
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Schuyler County Considers Former Prison Site for Potential Nuclear Plant: A proposal to use the former Camp Monterey prison site in Schuyler County for a new nuclear plant is under preliminary review. Local officials identified the location due to its infrastructure and potential economic benefits but report that no active pursuit is underway. While the state considers several sites to increase nuclear power supply, advocacy groups are organizing a forum to discuss possible concerns. The project’s future remains uncertain as alternative options are assessed. (Source: Fingerlakes1.com on Apr 9)
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Tompkins Cortland Community College and Ithaca College Create Dual Admission Program: Tompkins Cortland Community College and Ithaca College have announced a dual admission agreement aimed at easing the transition for students moving from a two-year program to completing a bachelor's degree. The initiative is intended to simplify application processes and bolster financial assistance for students. Leaders from both colleges will sign the agreement this week, formalizing the new pathway. This collaboration seeks to enhance educational opportunities for local students. (Source: Finger Lakes Daily News on Apr 9)
April 8, 2026
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Ithaca Rotary Club Schedules Route 13 Roadside Cleanup for April 18: The Ithaca Rotary Club is organizing its semiannual effort to clean up litter along Route 13, one of the main thoroughfares in the region. The event is scheduled for April 18, with volunteers gathering in the Tops parking lot in Lansing that morning. Community participation is encouraged to help improve the area’s appearance. This initiative aims to maintain cleanliness along a heavily traveled local roadway. (Source: Finger Lakes Daily News on Apr 8)
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Tompkins County Living Wage Rises to $25.08 per Hour, Annual Study Finds: The latest Living Wage Report indicates that a single adult in Tompkins County now needs to earn $25.08 per hour to cover essential living costs. This figure reflects a 1% increase from last year’s estimate and equates to about $52,170 annually. The study, produced by local worker advocates and researchers from Cornell University, evaluates nine expense categories such as housing, transportation, and healthcare. The findings help clarify minimum income levels required for local economic stability. (Source: The Ithaca Voice on Apr 8)
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Ithaca Launches New Website and Email Platform to Enhance City Service Access: The City of Ithaca has introduced a completely redesigned municipal website and a new email newsletter system to improve access to information about city services. Officials stated that these updates were made in response to resident feedback about difficulties navigating the previous site. The new website features clearer organization, improved navigation, and enhanced accessibility to better serve residents, businesses, and community partners. The changes are intended to foster stronger communication and transparency between the city and its community. (Source: Fingerlakes1.com on Apr 8)
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Tompkins County Considers Raising Minimum Wage Amid Rising Living Costs: Tompkins County officials have commissioned a $50,000 study with Cornell researchers to assess the effects of increasing the local minimum wage beyond New York's $16 per hour rate. The initiative responds to concerns that living expenses, particularly housing, are surpassing wage growth. Public forums involving workers, businesses, and service agencies are underway to gather input. Study results are due this summer, with a legislative decision expected later in the year. (Source: Fingerlakes1.com on Apr 8)
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William Smith Lacrosse Secures Liberty League Tournament Spot With Win Over Ithaca: The William Smith Herons lacrosse team defeated the Ithaca Bombers 18-5 in a Liberty League matchup at Higgins Stadium, improving their record to 11-1 and ensuring a place in the conference tournament. Ten different Herons contributed to the scoring, highlighting a well-balanced offense, while the defense held Ithaca to a season-low in goals. Key performances included 13 draw controls by Grace Rund and strong defensive play from Janey Sypeck. The Herons dominated key statistics throughout the game. (Source: Fingerlakes1.com on Apr 8)
April 7, 2026
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Dakota Higgins Croak Remembered for Generosity and Love of the Outdoors: Dakota Higgins Croak, born in 1997, passed away on March 26, 2026, following a brief illness. He is remembered by his extended family, including his parents, grandparents, siblings, and a close family friend. Known for his generosity and being an organ donor, Dakota was passionate about fishing, spending time outdoors, and caring for animals. The family plans to hold a private memorial service in his honor. (Source: The Ithaca Voice on Apr 7)
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New York Allows Home Marijuana Growing With Strict Rules in Place: Adults in New York may legally grow marijuana at home, but must follow specific regulations to avoid penalties. Each person 21 or older can cultivate up to three mature and three immature plants, with a household maximum of six each. Storing up to five pounds at home is allowed, though selling homegrown cannabis remains illegal. Authorities emphasize secure and private setups, as violations and large-scale cultivation can still bring significant legal consequences. (Source: Fingerlakes1.com on Apr 7)
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Debate Emerges Over Tax Relief Plans as Gas Prices Surpass $4 in New York: Gas prices exceeding $4 in New York have prompted renewed discussions about relief measures, with local and state leaders divided on the best approach. Chemung County officials propose suspending certain local energy taxes and limiting gas taxes for six months, aiming at $2.5 million in resident savings. Some lawmakers want to reinstate a statewide gas tax holiday, but the governor prefers utility reforms and rebates, citing concerns that earlier tax holidays were ineffective. The debate continues as residents await action. (Source: Fingerlakes1.com on Apr 7)
April 6, 2026
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Dorothy Jean Swader Magacs, Longtime Ithaca Resident, Dies at 90: Dorothy Jean Swader Magacs, a longtime resident of Ithaca, passed away at age 90 on March 14, 2026, at her home with family and close friends by her side. Originally from Westmoreland County, Pennsylvania, she moved to Odessa, New York as a child and became active in local organizations such as church groups and 4-H. Known for her civic engagement and academic achievements, Magacs built her life in Ithaca with her husband John. She is remembered by a wide circle of loved ones from the region. (Source: The Ithaca Voice on Apr 6)
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Ithaca Farmers Market Reopens With Renovated Facilities and Expanded Access: The Ithaca Farmers Market began its 2026 outdoor season at Steamboat Landing, showcasing significant upgrades including a new parking lot and enhanced walkways supported by state funding. The improvements are designed to enhance accessibility and ease for all visitors. Shoppers can find local produce, handmade crafts, and prepared foods throughout the April-to-December season, with Saturday operations ongoing and Sunday hours to be added in May. Organizers anticipate continued high attendance following the renovations. (Source: Fingerlakes1.com on Apr 6)
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Tompkins County Begins Curbside Composting Pilot in Ithaca: Tompkins County has introduced a new curbside composting pilot within Ithaca, allowing residents to have food scraps collected directly from their homes. The initiative, which builds on the county's existing food scraps recycling efforts, is funded by a combination of state and county grants totaling $200,000. The one-year pilot aims to reduce landfill waste by diverting organic material for composting. Data gathered during the trial will help determine the future of curbside composting in the area. (Source: The Ithaca Voice on Apr 6)
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Finger Lakes Faces April Snow and Flooding Risk Due to Cold Snap: The Finger Lakes region is experiencing winter-like conditions to start the week, as forecasters predict rain, snow, and below-normal temperatures will affect several counties, including Cayuga, Schuyler, Seneca, Ontario, Wayne, and Yates. The National Weather Service attributes the unsettled weather to a cold air mass arriving from the eastern Great Lakes. Lower elevations should expect a mix of rain and snow, while areas near Lake Ontario could see up to three inches of accumulation. Conditions are expected to gradually improve after midweek. (Source: Fingerlakes1.com on Apr 6)
April 5, 2026
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Cold, Wet Start in Ithaca Gives Way to Warmer, Drier Weather Later in the Week: The Ithaca area will begin the week with cold temperatures and showers, as a strong storm system moves eastward over Eastern Canada and a cold front sweeps through Upstate New York. Arctic air will keep the region chilly through Wednesday. By midweek, conditions are expected to gradually warm up, allowing Tompkins County to dry out and experience more pleasant spring weather. Rain totals for the next seven days are forecast to be moderate. (Source: The Ithaca Voice on Apr 5)
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Three Lansing School Board Members Resign Amid Heated Dispute: A Lansing school board meeting on March 23 escalated into heated arguments, resulting in three first-term trustees resigning. The tensions arose over claims of mismanagement, accusations of racism, and concerns about the district’s handling of internal issues. The incident occurred as the district confronted a $2.2 million budget shortfall with critical financial decisions pending. Teachers and staff have shown support for leadership by returning $75,000 to help preserve essential programs. (Source: Fingerlakes1.com on Apr 5)
April 4, 2026
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Ithaca Residents Remain Vigilant Amid Ongoing Flood Risks After Heavy Rainfall: Ithaca officials continue to monitor flood risks after significant rainfall on March 31 caused water levels to rise in creeks and inundated some stormwater systems. The recent storm produced several inches of rain, resulting in considerable runoff that affected low-lying neighborhoods. Although precipitation has decreased, authorities advise residents to stay alert as intermittent weather could prolong the threat. Preparations and monitoring efforts are ongoing in response to changing conditions. (Source: Finger Lakes Daily News on Apr 4)
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William Smith Lacrosse Secures Liberty League Win Over Rochester: The William Smith lacrosse team improved its season record to 10-1 with a decisive 19-12 victory over Rochester at Fauver Stadium. The Herons maintained their unbeaten status in Liberty League play, fueled by Taryn Luzi's five goals and a strong showing by teammates Katie Grottenthaler and Grace Rund. William Smith took control in the second quarter and sustained its lead, with solid defensive efforts including eight saves by Casey Fiore. Rochester's late surge was not enough to close the gap. (Source: Fingerlakes1.com on Apr 4)
April 3, 2026
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Ithaca Advises Residents to Remain Alert Amid Ongoing High Water Levels: City officials in Ithaca are advising caution as elevated water levels persist following several inches of rainfall during a recent storm. Drainage systems were overwhelmed in some neighborhoods, prompting the Department of Public Works to continue monitoring local conditions and clear debris from storm drains and creeks. Residents in flood-prone or low-lying areas are urged to take preventive measures to safeguard their properties. Authorities emphasize that flooded roadways and standing water should be avoided for safety reasons. (Source: Fingerlakes1.com on Apr 3)
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Multiple Trustees Resign Amid Turmoil at Lansing Central School Board: A recent meeting of the Lansing Central School District Board of Education was marked by resignations from nearly half of its trustees following heated disputes. Tensions have escalated over allegations ranging from bullying to concerns about district financial decisions. Although no proof of significant wrongdoing has been confirmed, the district is facing a budget deficit and ongoing community criticism. The resignations reflect deep divisions and challenges within the board. (Source: The Ithaca Voice on Apr 3)
April 2, 2026
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Police Investigate Suspicious Device on East Green Street in Ithaca: Emergency personnel responded to a report of a suspicious device found on the 100 block of East Green Street in Ithaca on Wednesday afternoon. Both police and fire crews arrived shortly before 3 p.m. and used specialized hazardous materials equipment to assess the situation. After investigation, authorities concluded that the device did not present any known danger. The area was deemed safe following their response. (Source: Finger Lakes Daily News on Apr 2)
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Jared Gebel Named Deputy Chief of Ithaca Fire Department: Jared Gebel has been promoted from Assistant Chief to Deputy Chief within the Ithaca Fire Department. The decision follows recognition of his leadership abilities and longstanding commitment to the department. Fire Chief Michael Moody noted Gebel's consistent professionalism and focus on training throughout his tenure. Gebel will assume the new role, continuing his service to the Ithaca community. (Source: Finger Lakes Daily News on Apr 2)
April 1, 2026
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Tompkins County to Close Code Blue Shelter at End of April: Tompkins County's Code Blue emergency shelter, located at 227 Cherry St. in Ithaca, will close on April 30 after providing cold-weather refuge since November. The state-mandated program offered shelter to anyone in need during periods of extreme cold, accepting walk-ins without referral. After April 30, emergency shelter services will continue to be available through the Department of Social Services. The winter shelter served up to 70 people during the season's lowest temperatures. (Source: The Ithaca Voice on Apr 1)
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Three People Killed in Dryden House Fire on Cortland Road: A house fire in Dryden, New York, on Wednesday resulted in the deaths of two women and a young child at 321 Cortland Road. Authorities identified the victims as Katherine Gray, Christy Oralls, and Oralls’ 3-year-old daughter, Paisley Wood. Another resident, David Welch, was hospitalized in stable condition, while his wife was not home during the incident. The Tompkins County Sheriff’s Office is currently investigating the cause of the fire. (Source: The Ithaca Voice on Apr 1)