Good morning, Ithaca.

Maru Korea (formerly Maru Ramen) opened January 19 at 512 West State Street in Ithaca’s west end, shifting its focus to Korean specialties and dropping ramen and sushi.

The new menu offers beef and pork bulgogi, tofu stews and stir-fries, rice bowls and fried chicken bites.

Adelita’s Mexican Cocina & Tequila is preparing to open in the former Applebee's at Tops Plaza in Lansing.

The restaurant has finished its exterior work and awaits inspections and final kitchen equipment, with plans to open in February.

Cornell announced it will raise its voluntary funding for the Ithaca City School District by 42% over the next five years, starting with a $50,000 increase for the 2025-2026 academic year.

The university’s contribution will grow from $700,000 to $900,000 by 2031 (decision made at a Jan. 13 board meeting).

Charles Githler was appointed as the new Tompkins County Historian on Jan.

20 + he taught American History for 17 years at Newfield Middle and High School and will serve a three-year term to safeguard local archives and records.

Environmental and community groups report high noise and air pollution from gas-powered landscaping equipment affecting Tompkins and Cayuga counties.

They urge Gov. Hochul and lawmakers in Albany to begin a financial incentive program for switching to cleaner electric tools as debates continue later this session.

Tompkins County officials mourned the loss of former Deputy Administrator Kathy West after she passed away on January 17.

West served in roles from 1973 until retirement in 2003 (including a five-month term as Interim County Administrator in 1998) and was respected by county colleagues.

Ithaca faces a heavy winter storm — with over a foot of snow expected — and officials urge residents to prepare emergency kits with food, flashlights, and medicine while advising drivers to avoid travel and stay indoors today.

The American Heart Association warns that shoveling snow can be risky for adults over 45 - people with heart or joint issues should take breaks, push snow instead of lifting it, or use a snowblower to lower strain.

Residents are urged to follow this advice as winter conditions persist.

Ithaca drivers are urged to remove sensitive items (electronics, canned drinks, musical instruments, and medications) from their cars as subzero temperatures can cause damage; keeping gas tanks at least half full helps prevent fuel line issues during the cold weather.

Voting on the Guthrie Athlete of the Week for Jan.

18-24 is open until noon Thursday, Jan. 29. Eight student-athletes from regional schools are nominated and email nominations for Jan. 25-31 must be sent by 6 p.m. Jan. 31.

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.

Princeton Tigers at Cornell Big Red Women's Basketball

5-8 p.m. — Newman Arena — VIP tickets available — Experience college basketball with premium seating and special game day packages.

Mutts Gone Nuts

7-10 p.m. — State Theatre of Ithaca — Ticketed event — Experience a hilarious dog variety show that’s sure to entertain all ages.