Good morning, Ithaca.

Union Pacific’s Big Boy No. 4014 is touring New York in celebration of America’s 250th birthday.

The steam locomotive will make several short whistle stops today including in Owego at The Turn Golf Simulator + Restaurant and a family picnic in Binghamton before heading to Scranton on June 15.

The original Dos Amigos food truck reopened next to the former Corks and More at 708 W Buffalo Street.

Open Tuesdays through Sundays from 5:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m.—it serves scratch-made food and will soon add margaritas and beer.

Cornell Duffield College of Engineering expanded its Engaged Engineering initiative by naming Lauren Stulgis as director and awarding its first challenge grants, which support projects in environmental monitoring, AI and mechanical design (including efforts to help grape growers address the spotted lanternfly) across departments in Ithaca.

Cornell Atkinson (Ithaca-based) awarded $900k today to fund six research projects that study coral reef protection, greenhouse agriculture improvements and wildfire smoke impacts on deer disease; other projects target wireless EV charging, PFAS reduction in chip production, agroforestry in Uganda and greenhouse disease prevention.

The New York State Division of Consumer Protection warns homeowners to verify contractors and get written estimates when planning spring home improvements — consumers should check for proper licenses and avoid cash-only deals to prevent costly scams.

Gov. Hochul signed a law letting New York bars serve alcohol until 4 a.m. during the 2026 FIFA World Cup from June 11 through July 20 (overriding local closing times) while SLA restrictions remain in effect.

A new report warns that if Social Security's trust fund is exhausted by 2032, retirees in New York could see benefits reduced by about $511 per month, affecting nearly 3.35 million residents.

Local retirees may face financial challenges if Congress does not act soon.

A Cornell research team has developed a new firefighter suit that uses PFAS-free fabrics and clear design features—zippers and Velcro—to help cool the wearer.

Testing will take place in Ithaca and at a New York City training center as the team seeks more funding.

Work is underway on the new Revive Zone at Cayuga Shopping Center in the Village of Lansing — a family-friendly indoor venue offering a golf simulator and a free-roaming VR game room featuring Zero Latency.

The venue will host leagues, corporate events, and membership programs with a ribbon-cutting on July 17.

Stitch Club

1–3 p.m. — Tompkins County Public Library — Free entry — Gather for a creative afternoon of stitching, sharing skills, and working on projects.

Blaque Dynamite Live Performance

7-11:30 p.m. — The Nocturnal Café — $14 adv/$20 dos — Experience Grammy-nominated artist Blaque Dynamite blending jazz, funk, and more in an unforgettable live show.

One Night With You

7-9 p.m. — K-HOUSE Karaoke & Arts Hub — Enjoy dinner with Elvis singing classic tunes.

Ithaca Reggae Fest 2026

Live Music — June 26-28 — Stewart Park — Tickets available — Experience the vibrant rhythms of The Skatalites and other reggae artists at this lively festival.