(607NewsNow) — Here’s a look back at the top stories on 607NewsNow from this week:

Ithaca Ale House raising money for chef injured in hit & run: The Ithaca Ale House is raising money for an employee. The company says chef Jonah Sweet was injured on Valentine’s Day in a hit-and-run accident. A GoFundMe was set up to help pay for his recovery expenses. Get the full story here.

Ithaca lawyer, scientist both running for seats on Tompkins County Legislature: An Ithaca lawyer is running for office. Iris Packman seeks the Democratic nomination to represent District 3 on the Tompkins County Legislature. Meantime, an Earth scientist also seeks a legislative seat. Dr. Judith Hubbard is running in the Democratic primary for District 5, which was created after redistricting in Tompkins County added two seats on the Legislature. Get the full story here.

O’Mara wants answers about rising utility bills: A group of Republican lawmakers are calling for a clean energy strategy.Senator Tom O’Mara spoke Tuesday in Albany, where he was joined by other Republican lawmakers. Get the full story here.

TCAT, UAW continue talks about new contract:  There’s progress in contract talks between TCAT and the United Auto Workers union. According to a statement from UAW Local 2300, management at the transit agency recently passed two proposals that reflect union priorities but both sides remain at odds over money. Get the full story here.

4-month hiring freeze begins at Cornell: Cornell is putting a freeze on hiring. In a letter sent to faculty on Thursday, interim President Michael Kotlikoff says uncertainty about federal funding has resulted in a four-month freeze on new hires through the end of June. Get the full story here.