Latest News
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)
April 2, 2026
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Two Men from Schuyler County Receive Prison Sentences in Separate Felony Cases: Two men from Schuyler County were sentenced to state prison in unrelated felony cases. Ryan D. Alverson of Watkins Glen received a term of three to nine years following a guilty plea to third-degree arson after intentionally setting fires at a home and to a vehicle. No injuries were reported in the arson incident. In a separate matter, John A. Chaffee of Newfield was sentenced to one and a half to three years for attempting to use a counterfeit $100 bill at a Montour Falls store. (Source: Fingerlakes1.com on Apr 2)
March 26, 2026
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Newfield Resident Found Guilty in Schuyler County Burglary Case: A jury in Schuyler County has convicted Eric Walker, 43, of Newfield on a third-degree burglary charge related to a 2025 incident in the Town of Hector. Authorities say Walker was apprehended inside a private building with the intent to steal. Following part of the trial, Walker failed to return to court and a bench warrant has since been issued for his arrest. He now faces the possibility of a prison sentence ranging from 3.5 to 7 years. (Source: Fingerlakes1.com on Mar 26)
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Newfield Man Sentenced for Burglary Now Sought by Police After Failing to Appear: Eric Walker, a 43-year-old resident of Newfield, was recently convicted of third-degree burglary by a jury in Schuyler County. Authorities report that Walker failed to return to court after his conviction, prompting the issue of an arrest warrant. Law enforcement is currently seeking his whereabouts to ensure compliance with the court's order. The case highlights ongoing efforts to uphold judicial proceedings in the region. (Source: Finger Lakes Daily News on Mar 26)
March 19, 2026
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Newfield Students Recognized for Civic Contributions with State Seal Program: Newfield Central School District is introducing the New York State Seal of Civic Readiness to formally acknowledge students' commitment to community service and leadership. Thirteen seniors are expected to receive the distinction this spring, reflecting their involvement in civic activities, including a holiday toy drive that distributed 500 gifts and helped nearly 90 children. This new initiative aims to strengthen a tradition of volunteering among students and incorporate civic engagement into school programs. (Source: Fingerlakes1.com on Mar 19)
March 11, 2026
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Third Individual Found Guilty in 2023 Killing of Thomas Rath in Ithaca: A jury has convicted a man of second-degree murder and first-degree kidnapping in connection with the 2023 killing of Ithaca resident Thomas Rath. This defendant is the third to be found guilty, following a lengthy investigation and multiple trials. Prosecutors stated that Rath was taken from a homeless encampment, tortured in Newfield, and shot. The individual faces 15 to 25 years to life in prison, with sentencing scheduled for April 27. (Source: Fingerlakes1.com on Mar 11)
March 10, 2026
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Jonathan Glennon Convicted of Murder and Kidnapping in Thomas Rath Case: Jonathan Glennon, one of 13 individuals charged in connection with the May 2023 killing of Ithaca resident Thomas Rath, was found guilty of second-degree murder and first-degree kidnapping. The incident began with Rath's abduction from a homeless encampment in Ithaca, after which he was taken to Newfield, where he suffered severe abuse. The jury acquitted Glennon of the most serious charge, first-degree murder. Sentencing is scheduled for April 27 in Tioga County Court. (Source: The Ithaca Voice on Mar 10)
March 3, 2026
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Jeff Lovell, Longtime Finger Lakes Resident, Dies at 72: Jeffrey George Lovell, who lived in the Finger Lakes region and was 72 years old, died on February 26, 2026, following a two-year illness with cancer. He leaves behind his wife of nearly five decades, Nancy McCune Lovell, as well as two daughters and five granddaughters. Lovell was known in the community for his humor and friendly nature, forming connections easily and sharing memorable stories. He is also remembered for his strong family bonds and guidance to his children. (Source: The Ithaca Voice on Mar 3)
February 25, 2026
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Jury Finds Jon Glennon Guilty in 2023 Murder of Thomas Rath in Tioga County: A jury in Tioga County has convicted Jon Glennon of murder and kidnapping for his role in the 2023 disappearance and killing of Thomas Rath. Glennon was found guilty after a monthlong trial, which revealed evidence that Rath was abducted from an Ithaca homeless encampment, tortured in Newfield, and fatally shot in Candor. Rath's remains were discovered in August 2023 on state land. Glennon faces a sentence of 25 years to life, and three others have already been convicted in this case. (Source: Fingerlakes1.com on Feb 25)
February 21, 2026
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Watkins Glen's Madison Tuttle Qualifies Again for State Track Championships: Madison Tuttle of Watkins Glen secured a spot at the State Championships by finishing second in the 1,500-meter racewalk at the Section IV State Qualifier held at Ithaca College's Glazer Arena. Competing against 13 others, Tuttle's performance marked her third consecutive qualification for the State meet, which is set for early March at the Ocean Breeze Athletic Complex in Staten Island. Other Watkins Glen athletes also participated, with relay teams achieving season-best results. (Source: Fingerlakes1.com on Feb 21)
February 19, 2026
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Newfield Girls Basketball Team Secures First Playoff Berth Since 2019-20: After a six-year absence from sectional playoffs, the Newfield girls basketball team has earned a spot this season with a 9-10 record. The Trojans improved significantly from their single win last year, relying on stronger defense and team chemistry. Junior Egypt Smith-Henderson stands out as a key scorer, while seniors Emily Taylor and Sierra Lynch provide leadership on a youthful team that includes eight first-time varsity players. This marks a turnaround for the program's recent fortunes. (Source: Fingerlakes1.com on Feb 19)
February 18, 2026
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Tompkins County Library Director Outlines Plans for Collaboration and Growth: Emerson DeMeester-Lane has been appointed director of the Tompkins County Public Library, where he aims to strengthen cooperation among rural libraries and foster county-wide initiatives. The year ahead will feature robust summer reading activities, community partnerships, and discussions about facility expansion in places like Lansing and Newfield. Groton library will participate in a national summer learning program, while other branches pursue a range of community events. The new director emphasizes the importance of libraries as vital community resources. (Source: Fingerlakes1.com on Feb 18)
January 10, 2026
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Newfield Resident Charged With Trespassing After Genoa Domestic Incident: A 22-year-old man from Newfield was arrested in relation to a domestic incident that reportedly occurred in the Town of Genoa earlier this month. The Cayuga County Sheriff's Office charged the individual, Terry Bruce, with second-degree criminal trespass and endangering the welfare of another person. Authorities indicated that the incident led to formal legal action. No additional details on the circumstances have been released at this time. (Source: Finger Lakes Daily News on Jan 10)
January 9, 2026
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Newfield Man Arrested After Attempted Break-In in Genoa, Cayuga County: A 22-year-old man from Newfield was arrested after he allegedly tried to enter a bedroom through a window during a domestic incident in the Town of Genoa, Cayuga County. Authorities reported that the incident occurred in the presence of a minor, prompting charges of second-degree criminal trespass and endangering the welfare of a child. The suspect left before law enforcement arrived and later surrendered to the sheriff's office. He was arraigned and is being held at the county jail pending bail. (Source: Fingerlakes1.com on Jan 9)
December 11, 2025
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Tompkins County Raid in Newfield Recovers Firearms and Suspected Explosive Materials: Law enforcement from Tompkins County and federal agencies conducted a search at a mobile home park in Newfield following a months-long investigation. Authorities said they seized 15 firearms, including an Uzi-style weapon with high-capacity magazines, and materials believed to be for making explosives. The Onondaga County Bomb Squad was called to safely remove the suspect materials, and no area residents were endangered during the operation. Ransome S. Vanriper, 48, faces multiple felony weapon possession charges. (Source: Fingerlakes1.com on Dec 11)
December 4, 2025
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New Yorkers Voice Concerns Over Electric School Buses Despite Reported Advantages: Despite state plans to make all school buses electric by 2035, many New Yorkers remain unconvinced, expressing skepticism and uncertainty about the transition. A recent World Resources Institute study highlights the health and environmental benefits of switching from diesel, but some concerns persist regarding reliability in cold weather. Districts like Newfield Central in Tompkins County have reported savings, yet the discontinuation of federal tax credits has slowed future electric bus purchases. The state continues to weigh options for moving forward. (Source: Fingerlakes1.com on Dec 4)
November 3, 2025
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Guide to Ithaca and Tompkins County Elections and Statewide Ballot Measure for 2025: Voters in Ithaca and throughout Tompkins County will participate in the 2025 general election to select representatives for the county legislature and various municipal legislative positions, including the Ithaca Common Council. Additionally, a statewide ballot proposal concerning development of ski trails within the Adirondack Park is on the ballot, potentially impacting state land use near Lake Placid. Polls are open from 6 a.m. to 9 p.m. on Tuesday, November 4. Results and key updates will be available after polls close. (Source: The Ithaca Voice on Nov 3)