Good morning, Ithaca.

The SPCA of Tompkins County received a $68,388 grant from the New York State Animal Population Control Fund to support affordable spay and neuter surgeries for income-qualified pet owners.

The agency has added more appointment dates to lower wait times and control the pet population.

Newfield Fire Company responded on Memorial Day at 2 p.m. Monday to a rollover incident along Cox Road where a lawnmower trapped a person who had trouble breathing—battery-powered hydraulic tools lifted the machine as paramedics airlifted the victim to a trauma center.

The New York DMV warned Ithaca residents that scammers are sending fraudulent texts claiming unpaid traffic tickets to trick people into sharing personal information (the DMV said it will never ask for such details) and urged reporting of any suspicious messages.

Cornell is honoring nearly 200 employees as Cornell Heroes for their work that helped students during fall 2024 finals and supported many campus services—departments will host events through August where honorees receive T-shirts and personal thank-you cards.

Cornell’s Systems Engineering M.Eng. program has introduced the SEMI pathway that offers specialized courses in semiconductor operations, manufacturing, controls and data analytics—preparing students for tech careers.

The pathway is available to on-campus and distance-learning students, with fall applications accepted until May 31 and spring until December 1.

On May 24th, Cornell police ended an environmental protest at a graduation ceremony when activists blindfolded the statue of Cornell founder A.D.

White and hung banners calling for an end to fossil fuel ties. The police stopped three protesters—including former assistant professor Bethany Ojalehto Mays—and barred them from campus for three years while protesters said the act was a non-defacing educational art installation.

Officials in Ulysses and Trumansburg urged a review of NYSEG after a May 20 PSC audit reported 128 recommendations for better billing and customer service — calls for reform grew amid concerns over rising bills.

NYSEG and RG&E must file an implementation plan by June 18 — the plan will be reviewed and opened for public comment.

Ithaca Unified Sports renewed its status as a National Banner Unified Champion School on May 14 — one of only 36 in the state — and now fields two basketball teams as interest grows.

The high school will host Special Olympics NY Summer Games on June 20-21 with over 1,200 athletes.

Cornell’s men’s lacrosse team won its first national title since 1977 by defeating Maryland 13—10 with senior CJ Kirst scoring six goals—he said hoisting the trophy felt special.

Coach Connor Buczek praised the players’ groundball efforts and acknowledged Maryland’s longstanding program as a model for success in the sport.

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.

CFCU Summer Concert Series

5-8 p.m. — Bernie Milton Pavilion — Free entry — Weekly family-friendly concerts showcasing local and regional artists through the summer.