Latest News
August 25, 2026
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Bangs Ambulance Employees Ratify Initial Union Contract After Prolonged Negotiations: Bangs Ambulance workers have officially ratified their first union contract, concluding more than three years of negotiations with management. The agreement, supported by a significant majority of union members, includes increased wages, lowers the threshold for health insurance eligibility, and introduces double pay for shifts that are understaffed. While the contract required notable compromises on both sides, union and management leaders plan to work collaboratively to resolve ongoing concerns. (Source: Fingerlakes1.com on Aug 25)
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Arnot Ogden and Cayuga Medical Receive National Bariatric Surgery Recognition: Arnot Ogden Medical Center and Cayuga Medical Center have been designated as Blue Distinction Centers+ for Bariatric Surgery in 2026. This recognition highlights their adherence to national standards for quality and cost-effective bariatric care. Patients in the Southern Tier and Finger Lakes regions can now access programs acknowledged for their clinical performance and comprehensive support. The award allows local patients to obtain specialized surgery services closer to home. (Source: Fingerlakes1.com on Aug 25)
August 23, 2026
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Ithaca Common Council Moves Forward With 75-Unit Elm Street Apartment Plan: The Ithaca Common Council has advanced a proposal for a new 75-unit apartment development on Elm Street, clearing it for further city review. The project, planned for vacant land near Lehman Alternative Community School, includes five buildings and must navigate several approval stages, including environmental review and input from city boards. Public comments highlighted both support for accessible housing and concerns about traffic, neighborhood impact, and the environment. Construction is not yet authorized at this stage. (Source: Fingerlakes1.com on Aug 23)
August 21, 2026
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Ithaca Common Council Advances Elm Street Apartment Complex Proposal: Ithaca's Common Council has approved the next phase of review for a proposed 75-unit apartment complex on Elm Street, adjacent to the Lehman Alternative Community School. The development, set on vacant wooded land, would feature five buildings and operate independently from nearby Whispering Woods Apartments. This marks the first project utilizing the city's new Planned Unit Development zoning process, which adds direct council oversight. Public information sessions will be scheduled as part of the review. (Source: The Ithaca Voice on Aug 21)
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Ithaca Officer Hurt During Pursuit Prior to Arrest at Skate Park: An officer with the Ithaca Police Department suffered minor injuries on Wednesday following a pursuit involving a suspect with active warrants, police reported. The incident began behind Monroe Muffler and ended at the downtown Ithaca Skate Park, where Cullen Watson surrendered. Authorities charged Watson with resisting arrest, a Class A misdemeanor, and transferred him to the Tompkins County Sheriff's Office. The officer is expected to recover fully following the incident. (Source: Fingerlakes1.com on Aug 21)
August 19, 2026
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Cornell University Funding Dispute Leaves Graduate Students in Uncertainty: Cornell University has informed two graduate students who left the U.S. due to immigration concerns that they must return to Ithaca for in-person teaching roles or risk losing their funding. The students, involved in a 2024 pro-Palestinian demonstration, departed the country in 2025 following federal inquiries and fear they may face detention upon return. Cornell maintains that its funding policies remain unchanged and are separate from protest activity, while the graduate student union has filed grievances regarding the matter. (Source: Fingerlakes1.com on Aug 19)
August 18, 2026
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Ithaca Police Recruitment Event Scheduled to Assist Officer Exam Registration: The Ithaca Police Department has planned a recruitment event on Tuesday, August 25, aimed at answering questions and assisting those interested in registering for the city’s civil service police officer exam. The event will take place from noon to 2:30 p.m. at the Southside Community Center. The application deadline for the police officer exam is September 10, and the test itself is scheduled for October 17. Additional details and registration resources are available through the department. (Source: Fingerlakes1.com on Aug 18)
August 17, 2026
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Ithaca Meeting Addresses Police-Community Relations After Ira McKinley Arrests: A meeting at the Southside Community Center in Ithaca convened residents, police officials, and supporters of Ira McKinley following his two recent arrests. Discussions centered on broader tensions between law enforcement and the community, highlighted by McKinley's July 30 arrest over an outstanding warrant and a previous incident involving a dog attack at Wegmans. The event drew significant public attention and raised concerns about trust between residents and police. Community voices emphasized the need for meaningful dialogue going forward. (Source: The Ithaca Voice on Aug 17)
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Award-Winning Authors to Lead Ithaca Is Books Festival This September: The Ithaca Is Books Festival is set to take place in downtown Ithaca from September 10 to 13, marking its sixth year with panels, readings, and literary programs. The event is organized by Tompkins County Public Library along with local bookstores and publishers. Notable authors Patricia Lockwood, Nina McConigley, and Marion Nestle are among this year’s headliners. The festival will feature a weekend book fair on the Ithaca Commons, showcasing local authors and publishers from across New York. (Source: Fingerlakes1.com on Aug 17)
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Ithaca Traffic Changes Anticipated Amid Student Arrivals for Fall Semester: As students return to Cornell University and Ithaca College this week, Ithaca is experiencing notable traffic and parking adjustments. Early arrivals at Ithaca College start Monday, with Cornell’s new students arriving early in the week and returning students to follow later. Motorists should anticipate increased traffic near South Aurora Street, Danby Road, and several other key routes. Road closures remain in effect at Stewart Avenue Bridge and East Buffalo Street as the semester begins. (Source: Fingerlakes1.com on Aug 17)
August 14, 2026
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Cornell University Extends AI Literacy Program to All First-Year Students: Cornell University will make its AI Critical Literacy Program mandatory for incoming students this fall, following a pilot that improved understanding of generative artificial intelligence. The curriculum, hosted on Canvas, covers the workings of generative AI, ethical considerations, educational integration, and guidance on forming personal AI usage policies. Developed by the Center for Teaching Innovation and the university library, the program is adaptable for various courses and experience levels. This expansion is part of Cornell’s efforts to address evolving educational needs. (Source: Fingerlakes1.com on Aug 14)
August 8, 2026
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Ithaca Police Request Public Assistance to Locate Missing 10-Year-Old Girl: Authorities in Ithaca are searching for 10-year-old Kayleigh Eastman, who was last seen on Friday afternoon in the 300 block of West Buffalo Street. She is described as approximately 4 feet, 8 inches tall and 70 pounds, wearing a navy blue Bluey shirt and light blue shorts at the time of her disappearance. Police believe she may still be in the city and are asking residents with information to contact them. The ongoing search continues as law enforcement seeks help from the community. (Source: Fingerlakes1.com on Aug 8)
August 7, 2026
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Ithaca Citywide Speed Limit Set to Drop to 25 mph After Sign Installation: The City of Ithaca will soon implement a citywide speed limit reduction from 30 to 25 mph, a measure initially approved in 2022 but delayed by funding shortfalls for new road signs. City leadership has now authorized the purchase, and crews will install 116 new signs over the next several weeks. The new speed limit will become effective as each sign is put in place. The total project cost is reported at $19,124, which is lower than the original estimate. (Source: The Ithaca Voice on Aug 7)
August 5, 2026
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Ithaca Planning Board Reviews Updated Water’s Edge and SouthWorks Project Plans: The City of Ithaca Planning and Development Board met to discuss revised proposals for the Water’s Edge project and early SouthWorks developments. The Water’s Edge plan calls for demolishing Department of Transportation maintenance buildings on an 8-acre site to allow for a mixed-use complex with 200 residential units and retail space. Board members expressed differing views on project aspects, leaving the future direction somewhat uncertain. No major decisions were finalized during the session. (Source: The Ithaca Voice on Aug 5)
August 3, 2026
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Sam Farhi Draws on Ithaca Roots for Debut Novel "The Sapsuckers": Ithaca native Sam Farhi has chosen his hometown as both inspiration and setting for his first novel, "The Sapsuckers," released by Spuyten Duyvil. The story centers on a young man, Peter, who seeks answers following his brother's mysterious death, unfolding in a narrative interwoven with diary entries and shifting perspectives. Farhi credits his detailed memories of Ithaca's landmarks as grounding the book deeply in local color. The novel's personal ties offer a literary return to the region. (Source: The Ithaca Voice on Aug 3)
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Ithaca Police Arrest Local Man in Connection With Credit Union Robbery: A 56-year-old Ithaca resident has been charged with felony robbery following an incident at Beginnings Credit Union on North Meadow Street. Police responded to an alarm at the credit union and discovered a robbery had taken place. The suspect was later found in a vehicle on East Green Street and was taken into custody without difficulty. He faces a third-degree robbery charge and awaits arraignment in Ithaca City Court. (Source: Fingerlakes1.com on Aug 3)
July 31, 2026
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State Approves Long-Awaited Permit for Cayuga Inlet Dredging Project: The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation has granted a permit for the dredging of sediment from Cayuga Inlet in Ithaca, marking the first full dredging in over four decades. This move follows years of advocacy by local officials concerned about flood management and navigation. The state will cover the $4.5 million cost, adding to earlier allocated funds, with the goal of improving the inlet's depth and flood control. The project aims to address longstanding sediment buildup. (Source: The Ithaca Voice on Jul 31)
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Ithaca Man Arrested Following Alleged Knife Attack at West Village Place: Police arrested an Ithaca man on Thursday after a woman reported that her former boyfriend attempted to cut her with a knife at West Village Place. Authorities responded to 150 West Village Place around 6 p.m., where they found that the victim's pant leg had been slashed. Dennis Noonan faces charges including attempted assault, possession of a weapon, criminal mischief, and harassment. Noonan was taken into custody without incident and was awaiting arraignment at the time of the police update. (Source: Fingerlakes1.com on Jul 31)
July 29, 2026
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Ithaca Teen Injured While Cliff Jumping Near Wilmington, Transported to Hospital: A 16-year-old from Ithaca was hospitalized after sustaining head and knee injuries during a cliff-jumping incident at the West Branch Ausable River near Wilmington. The incident occurred on July 26, with the Wilmington Fire Department and Forest Rangers conducting a technical rope rescue from the river's flume area. Emergency medical personnel transported the teen to a hospital for further treatment. No additional details on the teen’s condition were released by authorities. (Source: Fingerlakes1.com on Jul 29)
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Cornell University Prohibits Processing Wild Game in Dormitory Kitchens: Cornell University has revised its housing policies to ban the processing of wild animals in communal dormitory kitchens. The update follows a 2025 incident where two students skinned and packed a legally hunted black bear in a campus residence hall. This rule, included in the Community Living Standards for the 2026-27 academic year, aims to set clearer boundaries for shared kitchen activities. The students involved were not penalized since no policy existed at the time. (Source: Fingerlakes1.com on Jul 29)
July 27, 2026
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Ithaca Police Investigate Stabbing Incident at Asteri Residential Tower: Ithaca police are investigating a stabbing that occurred at the Asteri Residential Tower on Saturday afternoon. Officers responded to the scene after reports of a man being cut with a knife inside the building. The victim sustained facial and shoulder injuries and was taken to a local medical facility for treatment. Authorities have not released information about any suspects, and the investigation is ongoing. (Source: Fingerlakes1.com on Jul 27)
July 22, 2026
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Hangar Theatre Presents 'Eureka Day' in Ithaca from July 25 to August 2: The Hangar Theatre in Ithaca will feature Jonathan Spector's play "Eureka Day" from July 25 through August 2. The production centers on a private school community in Berkeley as it grapples with a mumps outbreak and contentious debates over vaccines. In addition to regular performances, the schedule includes a cast discussion and a panel focused on vaccine science and policy, with contributions from medical and academic experts. The event aims to spark informed conversations on public health issues. (Source: Fingerlakes1.com on Jul 22)
July 21, 2026
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Cornell Scientists Develop Niobium Arsenide Nanowires Surpassing Copper Conductivity: Researchers at Cornell University have engineered single-crystal nanowires made from niobium arsenide that demonstrate improved electrical conductivity as they become slimmer, potentially surpassing traditional copper in microchip technology. These findings, published in the journal Science, offer a solution to the growing resistance encountered by copper at nanoscale sizes in electronic device interconnects. The new material allows electrons to move swiftly along the surface, minimizing scattering. The nanowires were fabricated using thermomechanical nanomolding. (Source: Fingerlakes1.com on Jul 21)
July 17, 2026
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Cornell Assists Ithaca in Comprehensive Parks Assessment and Planning: Ithaca is collaborating with Cornell University faculty and students to review the city's parks and suggest improvements to maintenance and governance. Supported by Cornell's city collaboration funding for 2026-27, the project will inventory park resources, examine upkeep needs, and explore better management models. Currently, park maintenance is divided between the Youth Bureau and Department of Public Works, leading to challenges in funding and care. Work will continue through fall and spring before recommendations are finalized. (Source: Fingerlakes1.com on Jul 17)
July 10, 2026
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Cornell University Library Showcases George Washington Exhibit for America 250: Cornell University Library is commemorating the United States' 250th anniversary with a special exhibit centered on George Washington. Located in the Kroch Library rotunda, the display runs through January 2027 and features manuscripts, political documents, and publications from Washington’s era. Items on view include early surveying drawings, Revolutionary War executive orders, and personal correspondence. The materials come from Cornell’s Rare and Manuscript Collections, connecting the university's history with the nation’s founding. (Source: Fingerlakes1.com on Jul 10)
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Scattered Storms Expected Friday in Finger Lakes, Calmer Weekend Ahead: The Finger Lakes region faces scattered showers and thunderstorms on Friday, particularly across southern areas and parts of the Southern Tier. Brief periods of heavy rain, lightning, and isolated gusty winds are possible in Cayuga, Ontario, Schuyler, Seneca, Tompkins, Wayne, and Yates counties, though widespread severe weather is not expected. Weather conditions are set to improve over the weekend as a cold front moves south, leading to more comfortable weather before heat returns next week. (Source: Fingerlakes1.com on Jul 10)
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Individual Seriously Injured After Fall From Ithaca Balcony, Police Say: Emergency crews responded to the Cayuga Garden Apartments on Chestnut Street in Ithaca after a person fell from a third-floor balcony on July 9. The individual sustained serious injuries and was airlifted by LifeNet helicopter to a regional trauma center. Ithaca Police are currently investigating the cause and circumstances of the incident. Further information has not been released as authorities seek input from potential witnesses. (Source: Fingerlakes1.com on Jul 10)
July 9, 2026
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Sedona Mesa Grill Launches on North Aurora Street in Ithaca: Sedona Mesa Grill has opened its doors in downtown Ithaca, occupying the space formerly held by Creola on Restaurant Row. The restaurant is led by Shayne and Mix Johnson, who bring a Southwestern menu influenced by Native American, Mexican, and Spanish cuisines. Sedona Mesa is open for lunch from Friday to Monday, while dinner is served on Wednesdays and Thursdays. The new addition aims to bring a variety of Southwestern flavors to the local dining scene. (Source: Fingerlakes1.com on Jul 9)
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Ithaca Launches Online Platform for Reporting Housing Code and Habitability Issues: The City of Ithaca has introduced an online platform enabling residents to report housing code and habitability concerns. The tool lets users submit and track property maintenance complaints, providing a more transparent connection with the city's Building Division. Officials expect the system to promote accountability among property owners and support safer, healthier housing conditions. Residents are encouraged to use the new resource to address local building safety issues. (Source: The Ithaca Voice on Jul 9)
July 8, 2026
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Ithaca Fourth Ward Alderperson Patrick Kuehl to Step Down from Common Council: Patrick Kuehl, serving as Fourth Ward Alderperson in Ithaca, has announced his resignation from the Common Council effective August 5. Kuehl, who began his term in 2023, is leaving to pursue doctoral studies in American government and public law at the University of Texas at Austin. His time on the council coincided with major administrative changes, including a transition to a city manager system and ongoing financial challenges. His departure will conclude his service after less than two years in office. (Source: The Ithaca Voice on Jul 8)
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Ithaca Introduces Online Portal for Reporting Code and Housing Issues: The City of Ithaca has launched an online tool enabling residents and tenants to report building code violations, habitability concerns, and property maintenance problems. The platform, accessible through the city website, streamlines the process of submitting complaints and allows users to track responses from city staff. It covers issues such as inadequate heat, lack of warm water, and exterior maintenance concerns like overgrown bushes. The initiative aims to increase transparency and improve housing standards in Ithaca. (Source: Fingerlakes1.com on Jul 8)
July 7, 2026
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All Charges Dropped Against Ira McKinley After Dog Attack Intervention in Ithaca: All criminal charges against Ira McKinley have been dismissed following his intervention during a dog attack near a Wegmans in Ithaca. McKinley was initially arrested on June 13 on misdemeanor and violation charges after pulling a pit bull off a woman who was being bitten. The district attorney's office requested the dismissal of charges in the interest of justice. The victim and community members had expressed strong support for McKinley's actions. (Source: The Ithaca Voice on Jul 7)
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Cornell Hosts Academic Boot Camp to Support Veterans Transitioning to College: Cornell University organized an intensive week-long academic boot camp in late June as part of the Warrior-Scholar Project, aiming to help active-duty service members, reservists, and veterans adjust to college environments. Eighteen participants from multiple military branches engaged in science, technology, engineering, math coursework, and college readiness sessions. The program, held annually at Cornell since 2015, provided over 75 academic hours and peer networking opportunities to ease the transition to higher education. (Source: Fingerlakes1.com on Jul 7)
July 6, 2026
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Hangar Theatre Hosts 'Dear Evan Hansen' in Ithaca With Focus on Mental Health: Hangar Theatre in Ithaca launches its production of the Tony-winning musical 'Dear Evan Hansen' from July 9 to July 18. The performances, located at 801 Taughannock Blvd., address themes of acceptance, identity, and connection. Post-show discussions on mental health and grief will follow select shows, with local advocacy organizations participating. Information tables on mental health resources will also be available throughout the run. (Source: Fingerlakes1.com on Jul 6)
July 3, 2026
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Asteri Ithaca Initiates Over 50 Eviction Cases Following Safety Issues: Asteri Ithaca has begun eviction proceedings against 53 tenants in the past three months, following a city-ordered vacate due to fire safety concerns in March. Residents of the 181-unit building were displaced for about two weeks while the developer addressed violations. The Missouri-based Vecino Group, which operates the downtown property, has filed dozens of cases in Ithaca City Court as it seeks to remove occupants. The building originally aimed to offer affordable and transitional housing. (Source: The Ithaca Voice on Jul 3)
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Tompkins County Confronts $9.8 Million Shortfall Ahead of 2027 Budget Planning: Tompkins County officials are preparing for a challenging budget cycle ahead, as projections show a $9.8 million deficit for 2027. Maintaining current service levels could require a substantial increase in the property tax levy, though leaders do not expect to implement such a large hike. Departments are reviewing their budgets as the county seeks to minimize the shortfall while managing rising expenses. Continuing to rely on reserve funds is increasingly seen as unsustainable by some legislators. (Source: The Ithaca Voice on Jul 3)
July 1, 2026
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Ithaca Area Economic Development Welcomes Three New Board Members: Ithaca Area Economic Development has announced the addition of three new board members after its June quarterly meeting. John Huhtala of Tompkins Community Bank and Justin Runke of Centralus Health begin three-year terms, while Scott Doyle of Ithaca College fills an annual appointment left vacant by a recent departure. These changes strengthen the board's expertise in finance, healthcare, and higher education. The appointments are intended to advance economic development efforts in Tompkins County. (Source: Fingerlakes1.com on Jul 1)
June 26, 2026
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Ithaca Planning Board Examines SouthWorks Housing and Community Facility Plans: The Ithaca Planning and Development Board reviewed updated plans for the large-scale SouthWorks project on South Hill, which aims to transform the former Emerson Power Transmission factory site into a mixed-use neighborhood. The initial phase includes residential, commercial, and retail components along with a focus on workforce training and a child care center in repurposed factory space. The complete project will take seven to 10 years to finish. The board also discussed separate housing projects elsewhere in the city. (Source: The Ithaca Voice on Jun 26)
June 25, 2026
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Ithaca College President La Jerne Terry Cornish to Leave in 2027: Ithaca College President La Jerne Terry Cornish plans to step down at the conclusion of her five-year term, ending June 30, 2027. The announcement followed talks between Cornish and the board of trustees regarding the college's direction. During this period, the institution continues efforts to resolve a budget deficit, address enrollment concerns, and recruit for other major positions. A search committee with representatives from across the college community will select a new president. (Source: Fingerlakes1.com on Jun 25)
June 24, 2026
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Ithaca Reggae Fest to Highlight Music and Environmental Causes at Stewart Park: The 8th annual Ithaca Reggae Fest is set for June 26-28 at Stewart Park, featuring live reggae performances, food and craft vendors, and a variety of themed activity villages including yoga, skateboarding, and art. The event aims to raise awareness and funds for the protection of Cayuga Lake, with part of the proceeds supporting local environmental organizations. A free block party will open the festival, and activities for youth are included with help from community partners. The festival emphasizes both community engagement and environmental responsibility. (Source: The Ithaca Voice on Jun 24)
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Ithaca Man Arrested After Intervening in Dog Attack Outside Local Store: Ira McKinley, age 62, is credited by witnesses for stopping a pit bull attack on a woman outside the Wegmans in Ithaca. He aided the injured woman until first responders arrived, but was later arrested after a dispute with police and store security. McKinley now faces misdemeanor and violation charges related to resisting arrest and trespassing. The incident has led to public concern and community support at his recent court appearance. (Source: The Ithaca Voice on Jun 24)
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Cornell Researchers Develop Method to Deliver Antibodies Into Cells: A Cornell-led team has developed a lipid nanoparticle delivery system that successfully transports therapeutic antibodies into cells. This advancement could expand treatment options for conditions involving disease mechanisms within cells, such as cancer, lung inflammation, and Parkinson’s disease. The approach leverages surface remodeling of proteins to facilitate their entry into living cells via lipid carriers. The results were published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences. (Source: Fingerlakes1.com on Jun 24)
June 23, 2026
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Ithaca College President La Jerne Terry Cornish to Leave Post in 2027: Ithaca College has announced that President La Jerne Terry Cornish will step down from her role at the conclusion of her current contract, effective June 30, 2027. The decision was shared by the college's Board of Trustees, who have initiated the process to select the next campus leader. Cornish began her career at Ithaca College in 2018, initially joining as provost before becoming president. The transition process will continue over the next several years. (Source: Finger Lakes Daily News on Jun 23)
June 21, 2026
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Tompkins County Library Workers Reach New Contract With Wage and AI Provisions: Tompkins County Public Library employees have secured a new union contract following negotiations that lasted nearly 18 months after the previous agreement expired. The deal provides wage increases based on job responsibilities and skills, and includes measures to address the impact of artificial intelligence in the workplace. Staff will have a role in AI audits and receive training as technologies evolve. The agreement, pending final board approval, will be in effect retroactively through the end of 2027. (Source: Fingerlakes1.com on Jun 21)
June 18, 2026
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Tompkins County Sees Decline in Natural Gas Use Amid Changing Emissions Tracking: Tompkins County’s newest greenhouse gas inventory highlights a significant reduction in natural gas consumption and a greater shift toward electrification. While these trends support the county’s climate mitigation goals, recent changes in the way emissions are calculated complicate tracking progress over time. The 2024 report uses a new state-developed methodology, replacing the approach developed with Cornell in 2019. For the first time, emissions from fossil fuel production and distribution are now included in the data. (Source: The Ithaca Voice on Jun 18)
June 17, 2026
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Cornell Scientist Receives Grant to Advance Hepatitis C Vaccine Research: A Cornell University researcher has been awarded a four-year, $300,000 Pew grant to investigate new strategies for developing a hepatitis C vaccine. The project, led by Andrew Flyak at Cornell's College of Veterinary Medicine, focuses on understanding how some individuals' immune systems are able to naturally clear the hepatitis C virus. Despite existing treatments, a vaccine is viewed as essential because many carriers are asymptomatic and unknowingly spread the disease. (Source: Fingerlakes1.com on Jun 17)
June 16, 2026
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Engineering Assessments Reveal Structural Issues Behind Seneca Street Garage Closure: Engineering reports from 2022 and 2025 revealed increasing structural damage in Ithaca's Seneca Street Parking Garage, with issues such as cracked concrete and failing components highlighted in both assessments. By 2025, the garage's condition was rated poor-to-fair compared to the earlier fair rating. Mounting safety concerns and a significant projected rehabilitation cost of $4.75 million ultimately led the City of Ithaca to close the facility in April 2026. City officials are now considering alternative uses for the site. (Source: The Ithaca Voice on Jun 16)
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Ithaca Considers Just-Cause Protections for Workers Amid Ongoing Debate: The Ithaca Common Council is examining whether to introduce just-cause protections to safeguard employees against unjust termination. The proposal, which would require employers to provide valid reasons for firing workers and implement a progressive discipline system, has sparked debate among local business owners and supporters at recent discussions. A special committee has met regularly since February to refine the policy and is expected to present recommendations next year. Business uncertainty and questions about the proposal's impact remain as deliberations continue. (Source: The Ithaca Voice on Jun 16)
June 15, 2026
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Ithaca Charter Revision Commission Faces Setbacks Amid Member Resignations: The City of Ithaca's commission dedicated to overhauling its charter has encountered significant delays and resignations, hampering its ability to meet original goals. With four of the 15 members having stepped down, including the chair, the group now anticipates issuing a partial report rather than delivering a full charter revision. The timeline pressures and process issues have made it unlikely that recommendations will be completed in time for a November referendum. (Source: The Ithaca Voice on Jun 15)
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Ithaca City Council Encourages Greater Housing Density in West Hill Proposal: A planned 48-unit apartment complex on Ithaca's West Hill is under review after city leaders called for additional housing and fewer parking spaces. The proposal outlines four three-story buildings with a range of unit types, along with a playground and other amenities. Council members are urging developers to prioritize greater density, improved pedestrian access, and increased community benefits. The project will proceed to a future public information session for further consideration. (Source: Fingerlakes1.com on Jun 15)