Good morning, Ithaca.

On October 14, Rashida Sawyer Bakery in Ithaca announced it will close at month’s end—two days later Senator Lea Webb gave the business a New York State Empire Award to honor its local impact and success.

On October 17, Governor Hochul announced the CHARM program to fund 56 murals statewide as part of a one-million-dollar arts initiative.

In Ithaca, the Community Arts Partnership of Tompkins County and Ithaca Murals will create 14 murals across the City, Town of Ithaca, Brooktondale and Caroline—supporting the state’s effort to enhance public art.

Wine Enthusiast named the Finger Lakes the 2025 American Wine Region of the Year last week; Governor Kathy Hochul said the region’s 140 wineries & family-run operations boost local economy & tourism.

On October 15, New York State Assembly Speaker Carl Heastie and Assemblymember Anna Kelles announced that GIAC received $13 million to renovate Alex Haley Municipal Pool in Ithaca – the funds will update the facility to meet ADA standards, add new locker rooms and a movable enclosure for year-round swimming while supporting 40 local jobs.

A catastrophic water main failure led the City to close the block of South Aurora Street between Hudson and Prospect, with repairs beginning today and expected to finish by October 23.

Motorists are urged to follow the detour routes provided by the City — routes differ for northbound and southbound travel.

Nine high school athletes from Maine-Endwell, Elmira, Watkins Glen, Edison, Vestal, Whitney Point, Norwich and Windsor were nominated for Guthrie Athlete of the Week for Oct.

12—18. Voters have until noon Thursday, Oct. 23 to pick a standout performer, and votes submitted by email will not be accepted.

The nominees for the Guthrie Athlete of the Week award—named for Oct.

12 to Oct. 18—were revealed, featuring several local athletes recognized for their strong performances.

Community Line Dance Lesson

7-9 p.m. — Foundation of Light — Free entry — Get ready to groove with a fun line dancing lesson for all ages in Ithaca.

Haunted History Tour in Downtown Ithaca

6-7 p.m. — The History Center in Tompkins County — $20 per person — Explore the city's ghosts and haunted landmarks during this intriguing guided tour.

The Weight of Ants

2 PM – 4 PM — The Cherry Arts — Ticketed event — Experience the English-language premiere of a heartfelt comedy exploring the lives of two teens.

Jazz Mondays with Dave Davies RhythmMakers

5:30-8:30 p.m. — South Hill Cider — $5 suggested donation — Enjoy live jazz, blues, and originals while sipping on local cider.

Princeton vs. Cornell Football Match

1:00–11:59 p.m. — Schoellkopf Field — Tickets start at $62 — Experience an exciting college football showdown with the Princeton Tigers facing off against the Cornell Big Red.

Shadows Dance Troupe Fall Step Performance

7:30-10:30 p.m. — State Theatre of Ithaca — Ticket prices vary — Witness the artistry of Cornell University's largest dance collective showcasing their fall semester performances.

The Crane Wives Live Concert

8:00-9:30 p.m. — State Theatre of Ithaca — Tickets available — Experience the energetic sounds of The Crane Wives as they fuse indie folk with rock and roll.

Today Is The Day Concert

7-11:30 p.m. — Angry Mom Records — Check ticketing for details — Today is The Day returns to Ithaca for an electrifying night of music.

Blackberry Smoke Concert

8-9:30 p.m. — State Theatre of Ithaca — Tickets required — Experience the soulful sounds of Blackberry Smoke honoring Georgia’s musical legacy.

New York Voices Performance

7 p.m. — Ford Hall — Free entry — Experience the internationally acclaimed jazz vocal group New York Voices as part of the Chamber Music Series.