Good morning, Ithaca.

Voters approved 97% of school district budgets across New York while districts in the Southern Tier—like Horseheads and Corning-Painted Post—failed to meet their tax cap requirements and now face choices on next steps.

In Tompkins County, moderate budget increases passed with over 75% support, showing a calmer election season compared to previous years.

The Ithaca Teachers Association held walk-in demonstrations at schools on May 23 amid ongoing contract talks with the district.

The union—which represents about 600 educators—rallied to improve pay structure and set limits on work communications while still negotiating on AI protections.

Cornell chemists have made a new tool to watch EV batteries change in very cold or very hot weather—using an electron microscope, they captured movies that show battery parts breaking down and changing, which may lead to safer, faster-charging batteries.

At a May 21 meeting, the Ithaca City Manager’s Office presented the 2026 City Budget Forecast that outlines plans to maintain current staffing and services while planning for community growth.

The forecast details goals to diversify local revenues and expand the tax base — efforts that will guide summer work with each department.

The Cornell men’s lacrosse team is one win away from the national championship as it faces Penn State in today’s semifinal contest at 12 p.m. The team must overcome its only loss of the season to earn a spot in Monday’s title game — which will feature either Syracuse or Maryland.

Ithaca College head coach Waleed Farid left to take over the men's basketball team at NYU—he led the Bombers to a Liberty League title and now the school is searching for a new coach.

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.

The Evergreen Social: Vintage Goods Market

2-6 p.m. — South Hill Cider — Free entry — Explore unique vintage finds while enjoying tasty cider and live music from DJ Dou.

Gorges Ithaca Half Marathon

7:30-11:30 a.m. — Black Diamond Trail Trailhead — Registration fees apply — Participate in the 10th annual half marathon that traces a beautiful course from Trumansburg to Cass Park.

Twilight 5K Run

7-8 p.m. — Cass Park — Register for a fee — Participate in an annual 5K event organized by the Finger Lakes Running Club.

Ithaca Reggae Fest 2025

5-11 p.m. — Stewart Park — Free entry — Celebrate the region's largest natural resource with reggae music and community spirit.

Jazz Mondays with Dave Davies RhythmMakers

5:30-8:30 p.m. — South Hill Cider — $5 suggested donation — Enjoy live jazz and local flavors at Ithaca's favorite cider spot.