Good morning, Ithaca.

Architect Lisa Ferreira from design firm Goody Clancy described plans for a new Jewish center on University Avenue across from Alice Cook House.

The three-story building will have large windows and a terracotta exterior, with a busy first-floor lounge, classrooms on the second floor, and dining space on the third — it has received praise from the local Planning & Development Board.

Tompkins Cortland Community College signed an agreement with Cornell to offer a direct transfer path to the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences.

TC3 President Amy Kremenek said the deal is effective immediately—allowing students to complete an associate’s degree in Sustainable Farming and Food Systems before transferring for a bachelor’s degree.

The Finger Lakes Land Trust protected 73 acres of farmland on Wilkins Road in Ulysses with a conservation easement donated by longtime member Sandy Hill in 2023—this easement restricts development to a single home, allows agricultural use, and will use sale proceeds to fund conservation internships honoring her late husband.

On July 28, county officials held a town hall meeting where HOLT Architects showed sketches for the new Center of Government building on North Tioga Street near DeWitt Park, a project set to cost at least $50 million—up from $40 million due to rising material costs.

Community members raised concerns about the high cost and urged the use of existing vacant spaces, while officials explained the design would keep the Board of Elections easily accessible.

City staff is asking residents for input on changes to the Southside zoning plan that would add four new building districts to better match the area’s existing look.

Feedback is due by August 20 — residents’ responses will shape the next draft shown to City Council — to help guide future development.

Independent researchers Paula Ioanide & Charley Willison presented study findings on July 16 at the Tompkins County Housing and Economic Development Committee meeting showing that Sunflower Houses—providing low-barrier housing and wraparound services to formerly incarcerated men and homeless individuals since 2021—has achieved positive outcomes and now needs permanent county funding. The researchers recommended that the county Legislature increase stable funding to support the program’s benefits in reducing houselessness and recidivism.

Local experts in Ithaca advise residents to see a dermatologist if a mole or spot changes in size, shape, or color or if a rash, growth, or sore does not heal—these signs may indicate skin conditions like skin cancer that need prompt evaluation.

Nine tenants in the Asteri Ithaca building filed a lawsuit alleging mismanagement and unsafe conditions including uncontrolled trash, drug activity and broken safety systems — a situation that has led to more than 900 police calls this year.

Vecino Group has fired the property manager involved and started new protocols as local officials and law enforcement review the case.

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.

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 delicious ciders.