Good morning, Ithaca.

Watkins Glen native John Loose—an Army assistant football coach—launched Lauren's First and Goal Foundation in 2004 after his daughter was diagnosed with neurofibromatosis; his nonprofit has raised over $3 million for pediatric brain tumor research and cancer services while hosting a virtual football clinic that now reaches participants nationwide.

Ithaca man Braedon Peluso returned home after being detained by Israeli forces last month while trying to deliver humanitarian aid to Palestinians with a group of 21 activists — he spent three days in an Israeli prison and underwent a hunger strike.

He said he felt well on Aug 7 and plans to join future missions—his upcoming trips will reflect his continued commitment to humanitarian work.

The Trumansburg-based band Mama Look! will host a music retreat at Scott’s Farmhouse on Oquaga Lake on August 23 and 24 with registration ending on August 15; locals can sign up for music lessons and a live performance.

The band will teach basic singing and songwriting skills—helping participants explore new ways to make music.

Schools in Dryden will ban smartphones, smart watches and other devices from school days to comply with Gov. Hochul’s Bell to Bell rule—Dryden High School will also enforce the ban, building on guidelines set a few years ago.

Olivia Tolliver ’27, a mechanical engineering major at Cornell, is developing a system that turns human footsteps into electricity to power small devices.

The project uses an air pump, storage pouch, and a miniature turbine (designed for low-energy devices like a portable EKG) and is being tested at the Human Augmentation lab (focused on physical interactions).

Newfield increased its tax levy last year by 0.14% ($3,827) due to rising health insurance costs and inflation—officials now expect another increase as they prepare the 2026 budget and negotiate service contracts.

The town board will continue meeting at the Masonic Temple until town hall renovations are finished.

Cornell researchers developed a new implant that treats Type 1 diabetes by giving extra oxygen to insulin-producing cells without needing immunosuppression (it worked well in rat tests) and they will soon test the system in pigs and with human stem cells to treat more patients long term.

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.

Selling Local Foods to St. Lawrence Health

9 a.m.-6 p.m. — Cornell University — Cost info not specified — Connect local farmers and food producers with healthcare providers interested in local produce.