WRFI News Staff
The value of rural libraries: A look inside Odessa’s public library
Public libraries have been in the news a lot over the past few years. There have been calls to ban books, pull funding, or cancel certain events. But not all events or books are controversial and not all libraries are dealing with efforts to censor their collections. Odessa Library in Schuyler County is that kind…
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UPDATE: 88.1 and 89.7 are coming in loud and clear! The equipment failure at our 89.7 FM transmitter has been resolved! We’ve already heard from multiple listeners in Watkins Glen, Slaterville, and even Tully (!) that we’re coming in loud in clear. Thanks for your patience and support!
Read MoreFEATURE: A new call to address harmful algal blooms in Cayuga Lake and beyond
This interview has been edited for clarity. Harmful algal blooms, HABS, occur in the summer months in waterbodies across the country. But winter is when researchers and activists review the data and assess the impact of the season’s blooms. The toxins are dangerous to human and animal life. More of them are showing up in…
Read MoreLocal News: November 27, 2023
– New Ithaca police chief selected – A 23-year veteran of the Schenectady police department has been selected to be the new police chief in Ithaca. Thomas Kelly was selected after interviews with community members and a search committee. His appointment must be approved by the Common Council. They are set to vote on it…
Read MoreLocal News: November 22, 2023
– Hochul signs law that will seal criminal records for thousands – Governor Hochul has signed a new law into effect that will seal criminal records for thousands of people. The Clean Slate Law will seal the records of some people who have served their sentences and paid all fines. The Albany Times Union reports…
Read MoreFEATURE: Conversation with Interfaith Leaders
Since the start of the war between Israel and Hamas in October there have been several separate rallies in Ithaca supporting Palestine or Israel. Public emotions ran high when the Tompkins County Legislature briefly considered a resolution in support of Israel and flying the Israeli flag in the legislative chamber. It was around that time,…
Read MoreLocal News: November 2, 2023
– Cornell will close on Friday for a day of recovery – Cornell University canceled classes for Friday, November 3. The Cornell Daily Sun reports only essential staff will work that day. Provost Michael Kolikoff says the “community day” will allow the university community time to recover from the “extraordinary stresses” of the past few…
Read MoreELECTION FEATURE: Ithaca Common Council Ward 5 Candidate Jason Houghton
WRFI Community Radio and The Ithaca Voice are bringing you conversations with candidates in the contested Ithaca Common Council races and the mayoral race. Tonight Matt Butler interviews Ward 5 candidate Jason Houghton. Houghton is running on the Ithacans for Progress ballot line. His opponent is Clyde Lederman, running on the Democratic Party and Working…
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