Good morning, Ithaca.

Cornell’s Communication Department mourns professor Dawn Schrader, who died Tuesday as noted in an email from department chair Lee Humphreys.

She taught six courses and led research on digital media — a legacy that touched many students.

Cornell researchers found that under ultra-fast deformation during laser-induced microprojectile tests, copper with small grains softens instead of strengthening, defying the 70-year-old Hall-Petch rule.

Their findings could help develop materials for high-impact uses such as lightweight armor and spacecraft components.

TC3 received a SUNY Mental Health First Aid Grant on Jan.

8 to fund training for nearly 3,000 non-clinical staff (aiming to boost early recognition and support for student mental health), which will enhance the college’s care and learning environment.

Tompkins County Legislature unanimously backed efforts by Cayuga Medical Center nurses to unionize with the CWA, as over 70 percent signed union cards.

The nurses will vote on unionizing on January 14 and 15 — a step toward fair election practices.

Tompkins County Tourism Program has opened Spring 2026 grant applications for three programs that support tourism, outdoor recreation and community events.

Applicants apply by Feb. 26, and a grant workshop is held Wed, Jan. 28 at 3:30 p.m. at the Public Library (101 E. Green St.)

Hospice care supports patients with terminal conditions by managing pain and symptoms (it is not curative), while home care helps patients recover from surgery, injury or illness through planned, curative services.

AJ's Nuisance Wildlife Control advises homeowners to remove garbage, unclog gutters, and clear clutter to keep pests away.

The expert guidance helps local families protect their properties & prevent unwanted infestations.

Data from Realtor.com shows the median home sale price in Tompkins County dropped to $326,150 in October—a fall of 8.1% from September—while recorded sales increased to 80.

Single-family home and townhome prices also declined, reflecting a cooling local market.

Cornell men’s hockey beat Alaska 7-1 on Friday night at Lynah Rink as freshman Caton Ryan scored two goals and two assists, helping a power play that reached a 29.2 percent rate.

The team will face Alaska again tonight at 7 p.m. to close its non-conference slate.

After a 5-5 tie against Clarkson, Cornell women’s hockey snapped its three-game losing streak with improved offense and tighter defense, head coach Doug Derraugh said.

The team will take on St. Lawrence today at 3 p.m. at Lynah Rink (live stream available).

Live Music – The Soul Benders

6-8 p.m. — Hopshire Farm and Brewery — Free entry — Experience powerful blues and rock from the acclaimed Ithaca-based band The Soul Benders.

Sky Stories - The Round Time

7:30-9:00 p.m. — The Cherry Arts — Ticketed event — Experience the world premiere of Round Time, an aerial showcase of old rhythms and new cycles performed by talented female aerialists.

Ithaca Ballet: WinterDance 2026

Evening of contemporary dance — 7 p.m. — State Theatre of Ithaca — Ticket prices vary — Celebrate 65 years of Ithaca Ballet with an evening of innovative choreography and performances by alumni dancers.