Local News for July 4, 2023

First Harmful Algal Blooms of Season Spotted on Cayuga Lake

Harmful Algal Blooms or HABs have been reported on Cayuga Lake. Tompkins Whole Health says HABs have been found in the northern parts of the lake. HABs are a blue-green algae. They are toxic to humans and animals. If you see one, avoid coming in contact with it. Do not drink the water. Do not let pets drink or swim in water where there might be a bloom. HABs are mostly along the shoreline and bays but may also be in open water. They usually cover a small area. Water that has a bloom may be discolored or smell bad. Whole Health says blooms may have a paint-like appearance, blue-green oily swirls, floating mats or scum, or parallel green streaks. Here are links to photos and a video about identifying HABs. 

Gun Storage Law Put On Hold In Ithaca Common Council Committee 

A firearms storage ordinance in the City of Ithaca is on hold. The Common Council’s Administration Committee postponed a vote on the local law. Instead, they will be looking into how other municipalities handle the issue. The Ithaca Voice reports Acting Police Chief Ted Schwartz told the committee owning firearms is already illegal in the city. Others questioned how the city would enforce a storage ordinance.