Good morning, Ithaca.

Newfield joins National Wreaths Across America Day on Saturday, Dec.

13 with a 10 a.m. ceremony at Woodlawn Cemetery (featuring guest speaker retired Brigadier General Gary Yaple and hot cocoa from Covered Bridge Market and Pizzeria) and the unveiling of a new veterans exhibit at the Historical Society.

Danby Resilience Community held a successful Resilience Fair at the Volunteer Fire Company in early September and now meets at Danby Food and Drink Saturdays from 1 to 3 p.m. for resource sharing plus planning a potluck fundraiser and a spring fair focusing on water, bees and native plants.

Cornell research shows 70% of communities in AARP's Livability Index improved livability scores over time, while housing affordability & health care access remain challenges.

Professor Mildred Warner discussed the findings during an AARP webinar held Dec. 9 at 3 p.m.

Holiday experience gifts let local residents craft unique presents this season by visiting Poured Candle Bar in Press Bay Alley for candle making, Gourdlandia for gourd art, or Claybird Pottery in Dryden for hands-on pottery workshops.

Book your session or walk in during open hours.

The 56-person Trumansburg Community Chorus will perform I Dream A World on Dec.

19 (7:30 p.m.) and Dec. 20 (3 p.m.) at First Presbyterian Church of Ulysses in the village, offering a free event that asks for donations.

Ithaca Concert Band will perform a free holiday concert Dec.

13 at Ford Hall — featuring classic Christmas tunes, a special kids’ segment, and a closing performance of Sleigh Ride at 7 p.m. Donations are welcomed.

Over 400 students joined the Healthcare Careers Expo at Ithaca College’s School of Health Sciences and Human Performance today to try clinical simulations and explore 30+ career pathways in healthcare.

The event featured interactive workshops and expert guidance (a collaboration among local partners) that aims to inspire future healthcare professionals.

Cornell professor Trent Preszler released a new book, Evergreen, that shows how evergreens shaped history from the Pine Tree Riot in colonial times to modern environmental issues.

The book uses simple stories to explain how trees affected trade, culture, and industry (a fresh look at our natural past).

The Finger Lakes Land Trust planted 575 native plants on a former cornfield bordering Tuaghannock Creek on Iradell Road in Enfield to boost wildlife habitat and improve water quality at its new Lower Nature Preserve addition.

This effort is part of the trust’s regional restoration projects.

Dryden dog control officer Retta Beardslee marked a busy first year by boosting dog licensing, improving shelter care, and deepening outreach; her team brought 3,032 dogs into compliance and found new homes for long-term shelter animals, and she is planning further program and safety upgrades in 2026.

Tompkins County health officials urge residents to get vaccinated as the flu surge persists—Whole Health will hold Friday vaccination clinics by appointment from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. and 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. to safeguard the community.

Ithaca High girls basketball is aiming for a turnaround under first-year coach Tim Wood — blending experienced players with newcomers after a 2-17 season, with their home opener planned for today against Horseheads.

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.

New Year's Eve Dance Party

8:30 p.m. — Foundation of Light — Check event page for ticket details — Celebrate the new year with a night of games, raffles, and festive fun.