Good morning, Ithaca.

Cornell University has named Kyle Kimball as its new vice president for university relations who will start on Sept.

15—he replaces interim Monica Yant Kinney and will serve as the school’s spokesperson with local, state and federal agencies. Formerly at NYU and Con Edison, Kimball said he and his family look forward to growing new roots in Ithaca.

Tompkins County and the city of Ithaca agreed on a 3-year lease for a shelter and navigation hub at 100 Commercial Ave., the former site of a Burger King restaurant.

Legislators approved the resolution on Aug.5 and the Common Council voted on it on Aug.6 to establish a space where local agencies help individuals access housing, medical, and other services.

New York’s Department of Environmental Conservation announced that hunters can apply for extra deer management permits to harvest antlerless deer in more than 20 wildlife areas in 2025, including parts of the Finger Lakes region.

Permit applications come with a $10 fee and are open until Oct. 1 — both residents and non-residents have equal chances to receive a permit.

County and city officials approved a three-year lease for a former Burger King on Elmira Road to be turned into a resource center by day and a Code Blue shelter by night for up to 38 people later this year—local leaders will finalize the plans after the Common Council meeting Wednesday.

The Ithaca-Tompkins County Transportation Council named Tom Knipe as its new director starting in September—he replaces Fernando de Aragón who retired after more than 27 years.

Knipe was formerly deputy director of economic development in Ithaca and helped lead local transport projects, preparing him to guide future improvements.

Ithaca Police will increase enforcement of Commons ordinances to keep the area safe after community requests, and Police Chief Thomas Kelly said the move will support local businesses and residents—rules include no smoking, biking or loud music.

The Tompkins County Board of Elections announced winners of the 2025 voting sticker contest.

Sevy Stiglitz’s 'Future Voter' design and Olivia Casselberry’s 'I Voted' design—both featuring hand-drawn dogs outdoors—will be used in November for voters while the winners receive a proclamation from the county legislature later this year.

Tompkins County Administrator Korsah Akumfi began work on the 2026 budget that faces an $11 million deficit due to rising costs, increased demand for services, and reduced state and federal funding.

Officials will review each line item, and a preliminary budget will be presented in September with adoption planned by November.

Cornell researchers found that current powdered formula instructions do not tell parents to check water temperature, leaving a risk that dangerous Cronobacter bacteria could survive.

The study, published on July 18, recommends using a thermometer (hot water should cool to 165°F and then wait one minute) to help protect high-risk infants (those under 2 months, preemies, or immunocompromised).

Cornell’s president’s mansion, Robin Hill in Cayuga Heights, was sold to an anonymous alumnus for nearly $2.8 million.

The estate—purchased by Cornell in 1963—will return to the tax rolls with an estimated $70,000 in annual property taxes while the buyer intends to preserve it.

Jazz Mondays with Dave Davies RhythmMakers

5:30-8:30 p.m. — South Hill Cider — $5 suggested donation — Enjoy live jazz and cider from talented local musicians every Monday evening.

Mosaic Foundation Performance at South Hill Cider

5:30-8:30 p.m. — South Hill Cider — $10 cover at the door — Experience internationally influenced reggae with diverse sounds and uplifting messages.

The Evergreen Social Vintage Market

12-4 p.m. — South Hill Cider — Check for any entry fee — Explore a vibrant market filled with vintage clothing, delicious cider, live music, and unique finds.

Mondays with MAQ at South Hill Cider

5:30-8:30 p.m. — South Hill Cider — $5 suggested donation — Enjoy live jazz with the talented MAQ ensemble while sipping heirloom cider.

Richie Stearns and Friends Concert

5:30-8:30 p.m. — South Hill Cider — $5-$10 suggested donation — Enjoy eclectic banjo music and local vibes in a beautiful cider setting.

Rose Ellen / Sam Lupowitz / Mandy Goldman

7 p.m. — The Downstairs — $5 — Enjoy a night of local music talent at a cozy Ithaca venue.

Sit! Stay! Read!

3-4 p.m. — Tompkins County Public Library — Free event — Experience a delightful literary gathering featuring reading activities with a community focus.

Kajuneji Live at South Hill Cider

6 PM – 12 AM — South Hill Cider — Free entry — Experience the vibrant sounds of Kajuneji with a unique blend of world music and funk every Thursday night.

AIDS Ride for Life

6 AM — Cass Park — Registration Required — Celebrate community spirit while cycling through beautiful routes to support a great cause.