Good morning, Ithaca.

Developer Scott Gruver proposed to transform the closed Lake Watch Inn into a family fun center with mini-golf, batting cages & zip line.

He presented his plan at the Village of Lansing Planning Board on June 30 while seeking feedback before moving forward with architects and securing dual zoning approval.

Ithaca Guitar Works, a 50-year-old shop in DeWitt Mall, serves as a hub for local musicians and community gatherings as co-owner Ashley Broadwell manages repairs and live sessions that celebrate the region’s music culture.

The shop also supports charity events—showcasing its deep community roots.

Dryden’s Protagonist Books and Coffee recently earned the Empire Award for becoming a community hub and is planning a first birthday party in September — the Dryden Recreation Department also announced free Tuesday shows for the Music in the Hollow series at Ellis Hollow Community Center until August.

Cornell scholars are examining modern threats to democracy and working with experts to find solutions + their research focuses on teaching students to resolve conflicts and resist political polarization.

Trumansburg Central School District accepted middle school principal Jean Lomax’s resignation on June 29.

Superintendent Conaway said officials will soon search for a new leader — community members have expressed concerns over the board’s rushed process and lack of transparency.

Cornell is busy with several campus redevelopment projects this summer, including an almost completed $68.7 million Meinig Fieldhouse at 239 Tower Road, a $110 million gut renovation of historic McGraw Hall, and ongoing expansions of Duffield and Harkavy Halls ahead of student orientation in August.

Cornell students in the State Policy Advocacy Clinic are drafting a proposed Code Red emergency response for extreme heat and studying harmful algal blooms to protect vulnerable residents in both urban areas and rural communities.

They work with local partners to identify gaps and shape state policy.

CTI recognized doctoral candidates Naman Agrawal and Margaret E.

Foster with the Cornelia Ye and Christine Ye Awards for outstanding teaching assistance at the University-Wide GET SET Teaching Conference on April 18 (honoring excellence in teaching).

Cornell professor Charlie Trautmann launched an Engineering in the Community course after noticing a crumbling footbridge at the Botanic Gardens; his students have since built bridges that restored trail access along Fall Creek and provided a key link to the new Water Tower Park in Interlaken.

The Tompkins County Office for the Aging is relocating to 31 Dutch Mill Road on Monday, July 20 — the move supports the county’s Center of Government project.

The downtown office will close on July 16 and 17, and staff will assist clients by phone during the transition.

A study from Weill Cornell Medicine found that a gut cell protein, TL1A, boosts defense against pathogens + supports beneficial bacteria, a discovery that could lead to improved inflammatory bowel disease treatments.

Researchers identified its regulator BHLHE40 as a key switch in balancing immune responses, with results published July 7.

Target is recalling its Gigglescape Under the Sea Popping Toys because the clear plastic dome can detach, exposing small balls and posing a choking hazard.

About 49,000 units sold from Aug 2025 to Jan 2026 can be returned at Target for a refund or by mail.

This summer, builders in Collegetown are constructing multiple new apartment buildings aimed at students and local professionals; projects including The Summit, The Ivy, The Bear, and The Pinnacle Apartments feature modern amenities (final touches on landscaping and interiors are ongoing).

Former Groton runner Ross Bush will join the SUNY Geneseo cross country and track teams after breaking 18 school records and earning state and national honors.

He will compete in middle-distance events and help build Geneseo's championship culture.

Ithaca High standout Eliza DeRito will join Marist University this fall to play Division I soccer, reuniting with longtime mentor Nicole Pacapelli Ciano (her first travel coach) while promising to boost a team that has not won a conference title since 2011.

Beginnings Summer Concert Series

5-8 p.m. — Bernie Milton Pavilion — Free entry — Enjoy free live music in the heart of Downtown Ithaca every Thursday evening.

The Rocksteady Explosion 20-Year Reunion Show

Time not specified — Liquid State Brewing Company — Benefit concert — Celebrate the ska scene with The Rocksteady Explosion's 20-year reunion and more local acts.

Brassquatch! The Fall Creek Brass Band Musical

7:30-9 p.m. — Hangar Theatre — Tickets $12-$34 — Experience a family-friendly musical adventure blending brass, gospel, and pop as young heroes navigate identity and belonging.