Good morning, Ithaca.

Ithaca’s transit system under Tompkins Consolidated Area Transit began its fall schedule on Sunday morning, increasing bus service for Cornell and Ithaca College — buses on other routes now have adjusted stop times to help riders transfer.

The new schedule will run until January 11.

Tompkins County expanded its Business Energy Advisors program to offer nonprofit organizations specialized energy consulting services for planning cost-effective upgrades and accessing financial incentives.

Nonprofits in existing buildings—eligible for enhanced BEA and heating system bid review—can get free support to lower operating costs while the program continues to serve all sectors.

Today at the Trumansburg Fairgrounds, the 174th fair preview features events starting at 12 p.m. including Colt Stakes and Harness Racing while rides remain closed, and the fair will continue through August 24th — offering demolition derbies, carnival rides, fireworks and local treats that honor a tradition since 1873.

Cornell welcomes its largest incoming class yet with 3,861 first-year students and 640 transfers from all 50 states, Washington, D.C., Puerto Rico, the Mariana Islands, and 97 countries — move-in begins Aug.

18, orientation runs Aug. 18 to 24, and convocation is today at 3 p.m. at Schoellkopf Field.

Cornell NanoScale Science and Technology Facility launched a free VR module that brings a 17000 square foot clean room to students so they can learn about microchip making today.

The training is part of a planned series of up to 40 modules that will help fill a gap in the semiconductor workforce by 2027.

Cornell researchers have developed an urban building energy model that mapped over 5,000 buildings using tax records, permits, and utility data—this tool is shaping Ithaca’s climate strategy and will guide the city toward carbon neutrality by 2030.

The model will also be expanded to support policy efforts in Tompkins County and beyond as local officials and the research team refine decarbonization strategies.

Local officials planned a $100M upgrade for the wastewater plant but a meeting with state regulators raised the estimate to $200M—this change could more than double local sewer bills while leaders call for firm field data before moving forward.

The new cost is tied to extra measures for nitrite treatment set by the DEC.

Werner is recalling its silver 20′ and 24′ Multi-Max Pro ladders — which have faulty locking mechanisms and led to 18 incident reports with injuries — and advises consumers to stop using them and contact the company for a refund.

The recalled ladders were sold at Home Depot from November 2021 through February 2024.

Grant Farred, a Cornell professor, published his book A Sports Odyssey: My Ithaca Journal on July 25 from Temple University Press—he tells how his love for Liverpool began when he was 8 in South Africa and later grew to include support for Cornell men’s basketball.

He explains that his passion for sports changed over time with influence from his son and local coaches—linking his early fandom and current community ties.

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.

2025 Tompkins County Airport Day & Preparedness Expo

All day — Ithaca Tompkins International Airport — Free entry — Celebrate aviation and community preparedness with fun activities and exhibits.