Good morning, Ithaca.

After SNAP rules became stricter on November 1 following a government shutdown that affected millions, local groups in Ithaca organized food pantries, meal swipe programs, and free bus rides to help residents access food.

Community leaders also shared resources online to show support and keep food available during rising prices — a sign of Ithaca’s ongoing commitment to food security.

Finger Lakes wineries earned national praise after top wine lists like Wine Spectator highlighted local wines from producers such as Apollo’s Praise and Ravines ahead of the busy holiday season.

The rankings—released by critics—are expected to boost sales and improve the region's reputation.

Filmmaker Ira McKinley, a longtime activist who works at Ithaca College Dining Services and made award-winning documentaries, is now using crowdfunding to support his new film project 'A Tale of Two Journeys' that examines the Black American experience in Southside.

He faces challenges from recent cuts to public broadcasting funding while continuing to help residents with fresh produce twice a week at the Southside Community Center—highlighting his deep ties to the community.

Ithaca College’s PPECS reinstated student employment hours to 140 on November 17—after a budget error led Technical Operations to exceed its spending and prompted a mid-October cut to 100 hours, affecting timely equipment checkouts for communications students in Roy H.

Park Hall.

Michael Gorup joined Ithaca College in Fall 2025 after leaving New College of Florida when conservative shifts reduced faculty control—he grew up in Ithaca and is a Cornell graduate who will use his research on race, capitalism and American politics to guide his teaching.

Cornell Recreational Services will open New York state's first indoor adaptive high ropes course at the Noyes Recreation Center in spring 2026—funded by a New York state grant and the Noyes Endowment, the course replaces the decommissioned indoor course and adds equipment for people with limited mobility. The new facility will expand accessible recreational options for students with disabilities.

Lisa Walker ’86 donated the largest gift from a Cornell Engineering alumna to create the Lisa L.

Walker 1986 Distinguished Professor of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering and a research fund at the R.F. Smith School, supporting exceptional faculty. Susan Daniel was named the inaugural professor and the fund will empower her to pursue high-risk research and innovative teaching—reinforcing the school's commitment to advanced engineering education.

Cornell researchers discovered a new way that water moves inside plant leaves using a special sensor—this breakthrough may help breed crops that use water more efficiently under drought conditions.

Ithaca College and SUNY Cortland worked together during the Cortaca Jug week by running a can drive contest from Nov.

7 to 14 that collected over 3,000 cans for local ReUse Centers. Cortland won the contest by beating Ithaca College 1638 to 1554.

The Tompkins County Public Library has chosen two finalists for its director position and will host their presentations on December 1 at 5 p.m. and December 3 at 5 p.m. in the Borg Warner Community Room—TCPL plans to name a new director by January when the interim director’s term ends.

An updated Criminal Record Online Toolkit gives job seekers clear guidance to fix errors in their criminal records and review their rights when applying for jobs in New York, New Jersey, Connecticut, Pennsylvania, and Massachusetts.

Developed by the Criminal Justice and Employment Initiative—an effort that began with a Cornell project—the resource bundles federal, state and local laws to help about 2 million New Yorkers pursue employment opportunities.

Cayuga Health outpatient clinics at the Ithaca Mall became one of the first facilities to receive age-friendly certification under a program developed by Cornell students and Tompkins County’s Office for the Aging—designed to adjust settings like lighting and seating to meet diverse needs. Other local organizations have already used the self-audit checklist to improve accessibility for all visitors.

Mike McSloy was hired as the new head coach for the Ithaca College men’s basketball team on June 17, replacing Waleed Farid—he inherits a team that won its second Liberty League Championship Tournament in February.

The Bombers will play Western New England University at 4 p.m. on November 22 and host University of Rochester at 7:30 p.m. on December 2 as they aim for another championship.

Ticket sales for the 67th Cortaca Jug football game started at 10 a.m. today on Ticketmaster—fans can buy tickets for the game at Yankee Stadium on November 14 as memories of Ithaca College’s win last weekend boost excitement.

Ithaca College and SUNY Cortland continue their long-standing Cortaca Jug football tradition that draws huge crowds (about 8,000 fans this year) and sparks school pride.

Local sports leaders urge fans to show equal support for other teams, noting the undefeated women’s volleyball team recently hosted the Liberty League Championship Tournament.

Pink Talking Fish Live Performance

7-9:30 p.m. — State Theatre of Ithaca — Tickets available — Experience a unique fusion of Pink Floyd, Talking Heads, and Phish in one unforgettable concert.

Jazz Social at the Regent Lounge

5:00-6:30 p.m. — The Statler Hotel at Cornell University — Free entry — Experience delightful performances from award-winning jazz ensembles in a charming lounge atmosphere.

Macro Workshop with Anmol Bhandari

11:40 AM - 12:55 PM — Ives Hall — No entry fee — Explore macroeconomic theories and applications with a leading economist in an interactive workshop.

Béla Fleck Concert

8:00-9:30 p.m. — State Theatre of Ithaca — Tickets required — Experience an evening of innovative music featuring Béla Fleck and his talented ensemble.

The Wood Brothers Concert

8:00-9:30 p.m. — State Theatre of Ithaca — Tickets available — Experience the soulful folk sounds of The Wood Brothers in the heart of Ithaca.

A Very Merry Classic Christmas with Jessica Lynn

7:00-8:30 p.m. — State Theatre of Ithaca — Ticket prices vary — Enjoy a festive holiday concert featuring award-winning artist Jessica Lynn.

An Evening with Evan Horne

8-10 p.m. — Kitchen Theatre Company — $20 — Experience the immersive sounds of cinematic-folk artist Evan Horne in an intimate setting.