Good morning, Ithaca.

Universal Pictures announced on Dec.

1 that it acquired Dylan Clark '23's feature film script 'Portrait of God' after his short film, shot at Roy H. Park Hall during his time at Ithaca College. The adaptation will be produced by Jordan Peele and Sam Raimi in their first joint effort.

Ithaca’s city budget reduced its Justice50 climate initiative to $0 funding, though normal funding is expected in 2026.

Meanwhile, Cornell Cooperative Extension plans a multi-year climate outreach program of 15 workshops on health, housing, and labor — designed to educate residents on local climate change hazards.

Governor Kathy Hochul announced on Dec.

19 that Freeville will receive $4.8 million from the state water infrastructure grant to upgrade its wastewater treatment plant for discharge permit compliance.

State inspectors gave grade A to grocery stores like Wegmans, Aldi, Tops and Trader Joe's after earlier assessments, while Walmart and BJ’s got a B due to mislabeled bread and sanitizing issues — results released today inform shoppers of current food safety ratings.

Eight high school athletes from local areas were nominated for Guthrie Athlete of the Week for Dec.

14-20, and voting remains open until noon on Thursday, Dec. 25. Residents can cast their vote to pick the top performer in basketball + swimming.

Guthrie announced its Athlete of the Week nominees for Dec.

14-20, highlighting strong performances by local athletes last week. Community sports fans can review the nominees to see who earned recognition.

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.

Alaska Fairbanks Nanooks at Cornell Big Red Men's Hockey

7-8:30 p.m. — Lynah Rink — Tickets starting at $15 — Catch an exciting NCAA hockey matchup as the Nanooks take on the Big Red in Ithaca.