Good morning, Ithaca.

Over the week of 4/28, local activist Irene Weiser announced her run for the Tompkins County Legislature in District 13 while authorities confirmed that Connor Hickey—missing since March—was found dead in Whitney Point on April 25 and former acting chief John Joly retired after a 25-year career with the police. The week also saw Tompkins County legislators call for an audit of NYSEG’s rate increases and investigators locate Ithaca resident Marcus Turner safe in the Bronx on May 1.

Senior Umu Barry came to Ithaca from the Bronx and became a campus leader at Ithaca College while earning her health sciences degree.

She now leads groups for women of color and African students—working toward her dream of becoming a pediatrician.

Senior English major Riley Rhoder has built a strong academic record — she has taken classes beyond the standard curriculum and led efforts like the international English honor society to promote inclusive literature.

She is writing her senior thesis on modern domesticity and plans to pursue library sciences after graduation.

Ithaca College will cut its Deaf studies minor and ASL courses after Fall 2025, and instructors started a petition on April 30—now with over 960 signatures—to keep the program and save their jobs; the Board of Trustees will review the matter during meetings from May 15 to May 17.

The Dead South Concert

5-7 p.m. — State Theatre of Ithaca — Ticket prices range from $46 to $78 — Experience a night of folk and bluegrass with The Dead South at a historic venue.

17th Annual Spring Writes Literary Festival

May 7-11 & May 15-22 — Community Arts Partnership — Free entry — Celebrate local literary talent with 40 diverse events from readings to workshops.

Australian Pink Floyd Show

8:00 – 9:30 PM — State Theatre of Ithaca — Ticket prices range from $64 to $387 — Experience the ultimate tribute to Pink Floyd with an unforgettable live performance.

Little Feat Concert

8:00 – 9:30 PM — State Theatre of Ithaca — Last-minute tickets available — Enjoy an evening of classic rock with Little Feat.

Garden Fair and Plant Sale

1-7 p.m. — Ithaca Farmers Market — Free entry — Explore a variety of plants at this annual sale operated by Cornell Cooperative Extension Tompkins.

Jazz Mondays with Dave Davies RhythmMakers

5:30-8:30 p.m. — South Hill Cider — $5 suggested donation — Enjoy live jazz with local musicians while sipping on cider and enjoying food.

Cielle On Solid Ground

6-9 p.m. — La Tourelle Hotel & Spa — Cost not listed — Experience an evening of Blues/Rock surrounded by the scenic beauty of Ithaca.

Nonprofit Budget Basics & Financial Planning Workshop

1:30-3:30 p.m. — Tompkins County Public Library — Check website for details — Enhance your financial acumen to make informed decisions for your organization.

Cayuga Trails 50 Mile Ultra Marathon

6 a.m. — Cayuga Trail Parking — Entry Fee $163 — Experience breathtaking trails with aid stations and a chance to win prizes while running through stunning natural landscapes.