Daily
Ithaca
Friday, February 20th, 2026
Good morning, Ithaca. Here's your local news at a glance for Friday, the 20th of February.
CULTURE NEWS
- ➤ Today, Mutts Gone Nuts Unleashed brings a dozen rescue dogs for a high-energy comedy spectacle at the State Theatre — featuring Ithaca’s own Hilby, a Guinness World Record holder, and an America’s Got Talent favorite. 14850
EDUCATION NEWS
- ➤ After two years of renovations, the Grailer Food Lab reopened to serve chef assistants from Cornell's Nolan School. The updated facility features a full-service kitchen with all-electric appliances and a teaching area where Restaurant Management students practice running a real restaurant. Cornell Chronicle
- ➤ Two years after a Supreme Court decision ended race-conscious admissions, Cornell student groups have seen a marked decline in first-year minority membership, with Black organizations reporting fewer new members and Latino students engaging more in campus solidarity+ campus activities have shifted as a result. The Cornell Daily Sun
- ➤ Karl Mistry, a Cornell alumnus and executive vice president of Toll Brothers, is set to speak to Cornell students on Feb. 26 at 4:30 — 6 p.m. in the Breazzano Family Center for Business Education, LL23 about housing trends and business insights as he prepares to become the next CEO. Cornell Chronicle
- ➤ At Ithaca College, resident assistants have faced reduced guidance in Spring 2026 as area coordinators fell from eight to one, raising safety and maintenance concerns. Residential Life noted a new coordinator began Feb. 16 and a search for more staff is underway. The Ithacan
- ➤ Ithaca College’s Student Emergency Relief Fund has exhausted its course material funds less than one week into spring as rising costs push more students to seek help. The fund provides vouchers (up to $300) for required textbooks to support students facing financial hardship. The Ithacan
GOVERNMENT NEWS
- ➤ The new Code Blue shelter on Cherry Street in Ithaca is serving more residents this winter than last year and now offers a 24/7 warming center to support those seeking shelter. County and Volunteers of America & officials are in active talks to secure a permanent site for upcoming winters. The Ithaca Voice
HEALTH NEWS
- ➤ An international team published a study that maps feline cancer genes and finds key similarities with human cancers. The research, published Feb. 19, shows overlaps that may lead to precise treatments for both species (highlighting a promising One Health approach). Cornell Chronicle
SPORTS NEWS
- ➤ Ithaca College volleyball welcomed transfers Jamie Low from USF and Elena Chappell from UNH in January plus both athletes left Division I schools for better academic fits and a supportive team culture following the team's fourth Liberty League Championship Tournament win. The Ithacan
- ➤ Cornell alumnae earned Olympic hockey medals in Milan on Feb. 19 as Rory Guilday ’25 won gold for the U.S. team and Brianne Jenner ’15 with Kristin O’Neill ’20 secured silvers for Canada, showcasing Cornell’s strong hockey legacy. Cornell Chronicle
- ➤ Senior hurdler Rachel Larson at Ithaca College improved her 60-meter hurdles to 8.58 seconds and cut over a second from her 200-meter time this season, which she credits to renewed confidence and strong coaching support. The team now prepares to regain the Liberty League title at upcoming meets. The Ithacan
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Richmond Spiders vs. Cornell Big Red Men's Lacrosse
12-2 p.m. — Schoellkopf Field — Ticket prices vary — Experience a thrilling NCAA lacrosse showdown between the Richmond Spiders and Cornell Big Red.
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Richard Daria Clarinet Faculty Recital
1 p.m. — Hockett Family Recital Hall — Free entry — Enjoy a delightful performance featuring clarinet, oboe, and bass clarinet by talented faculty members.
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Sheng Wang Stand-Up Comedy
7-10 p.m. — State Theatre of Ithaca — Tickets required — Enjoy an evening of laughter with comedian Sheng Wang during his extensive stand-up tour.
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Brown University Bears vs Cornell Big Red Men's Lacrosse
12-1 p.m. — Schoellkopf Field — VIP tickets available — Experience top-tier college lacrosse action with exclusive perks and amenities.
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The Music of Hans Zimmer
8-11 p.m. — State Theatre of Ithaca — Cost info not provided — Experience unforgettable iconic scores led by a pirate from Pirates of the Caribbean.
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Raclette for Lunch
12-4 p.m. — South Hill Cider — Cost varies — Enjoy a cheesy alpine tradition paired with refreshing cider at this popular local event.
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