Life

About Joint Ventures

The Johnson School has an active organization for students and their significant others, both for career seekers as well as families. Joint Ventures' mission is to foster ties of friendship and personal growth among Johnson School students, their partners, their families, and the greater Cornell and Ithaca communities. Members share information on jobs, health care, day care, entertainment, and student schedules while forming new friendships.

Joint Ventures sponsors a variety of regular activities designed to help members get to know each other and the Ithaca area. These include:

• Monthly dinners and social gatherings for couples to meet and get acquainted
• Large social events, including a welcome party and a Thanksgiving dinner
• Organized trips to area parks, museums and sites of interest
• A weekly play group for children
• Special interest groups, including a monthly book club, knitting, and bunco

Many Joint Ventures members work in Ithaca or surrounding areas and can serve as contacts in conducting a job search. Although relocating poses challenges, Ithaca does offer positions in many spouses' fields of interest. In addition, volunteer opportunities abound both on campus and in the community.

Joint Ventures also offers a support network for members with children. More than 40 percent of members have at least one child and share in family-oriented activities.

The club maintains a Web site at:
http://forum.johnson.cornell.edu/students/orgs/jointventures/ . On the website, you will find a copy of this guide along with other information on club happenings, Johnson school events and pictures from recent gatherings.

If you have any questions at all, please don't hesitate to contact any one of the Joint Ventures officers.

Helpful Numbers/ Basic Services (Ithaca area code: 607 / Ithaca zip code: 14850)

Helpful Web Sites

Cornell:
www.cornell.edu : General Cornell information and some Ithaca information
www.johnson.cornell.edu : Johnson School home page
www.johnson.cornell.edu/students/clubs/jointventures/ : Joint Ventures Website
www.cornellbusiness.com : Johnson School online newspaper

Ithaca:
www.ithaca.ny.us : Information on Ithaca , including dining and possible employment opportunities
www.visitithaca.com : Area highlights from the Ithaca/Tompkins County Visitors Bureau
www.tompkinschamber.org : Tompkins County Chamber of Commerce
www.chamberdata.cc/ccao/wc.dll?Mem~AlphaList~&Org=tcny : Complete listing of local businesses
www.ithacaevents.com : Extensive listing of music/art activities, lectures, fairs, and wine/cuisine events
www.ithaca.craigslist.org : Craig's List, Ithaca
www.ci.ithaca.ny.us : City of Ithaca search site

Newspapers:
www.ithacatimes.com : Ithaca Times publication
www.theithacajournal.com : Ithaca Journal publication
www.ithacadailynews.com : Ithaca Daily News publication
www.star-gazette.com : Elmira , NY local paper ( Elmira is about 45 min. away)

Registering For a Cornell Spouse ID card:

This application process takes place at the University Registrar's Office, B7 Day Hall. Normally, issuance of the card is not possible until after student registration for fall or spring term. Students should bring thefollowing to complete the application:

• Spouse's social security number (while this is not necessary to apply for an ID, if you have one please bring it with you), and
• One form of photo identification, such as an original passport or original driver's license, and
• Marriage certificate, or official "same-sex partner" registration issued by the City of Ithaca (obtainable by registering at the Ithaca City Clerk's Office, 108 East Green Street , 274-6570), and
• One of the following:
  • Joint checking/savings account documentation, or
  • Joint apartment or housing lease or rental agreement, or
  • Joint property ownership documentation, such as real estate deed or mortgage commitment or
  • Automobile title, with both individuals' legal name, or
  • Documentation of designation as partner or beneficiary on a life insurance and/or retirement contract.
    
• All documentation must be presented before the issuance of the identification card, and both the student and the spouse/partner must be present at the time the card is issued.
• The student will be responsible for all obligations from the use of the spouse/partner identification card for campus-based services. Until a new student information system can capture the names of the spouse/partner, the student's university identification number will be affixed to the card.
• All spouses/partners will be charged $25.00 for the original card and $25.00 for each lost or replacement card. Issuance of the Cornell Identification Card to the spouse/partner does not automatically constitute that person's eligibility for all services to which a registered student normally may be entitled. Each area must define the service provisions for this new category of the university community.

** To access more information regarding Spouse ID Cards, go to: www.isso.cornell.edu/faq/spouseid.html or go to: University Registrar's Office, B7 Day Hall, 607-255-4232 **

Health Care Services

Health Insurance:

Dentists:
This is a great link to find other dentists in our area: www.ithaca.dentist-dentists.com
This is a link to verify a specific dentist's license: www.op.nysed.gov

Dermatology:

Expecting Parents Information: Please see the Family Section

Eye Doctors:

Vision Specialists:

Family Practice:

Medical Facilities:

OB/GYN:

Orthodontists:

Pediatricians:

Psychiatry:

Sports Medicine/Orthopedics:

Religious Services

Ithaca is host to a wide variety of worship services for all types of religious denominations both on campus and within the local community.

Commonly Used Services 

Auto Services: (* does state vehicle inspection)

Insurance:

 Auto Dealers:

Antique Stores:

Bookstores:

Banks:

 Bed & Breakfast Inns:

Car Rentals:

Dry Cleaning/Laundry/ Tailor:

Fitness Centers:

Florists:

Furniture Stores:

Hair Salons:

Hotels
A resource for local lodging can be found at: http://housing.cornell.edu/housing_residential/overnight.asp

Shopping

The Commons , downtown Ithaca www.downtownithaca.com
Pedestrian mall with specialty boutiques, including book, art galleries, museums, cafes, music, and clothing stores

Cayuga Mall , Ithaca (Across from Pyramid Mall)
Strip mall offering TJ Maxx, Pet Depot, Sally's Beauty Supply, Eckerd Drugs, Dollar General Store, P&C grocery

Triphammer Mall , Ithaca (Hwy 13 & Triphammer Road)
Strip mall offering Joann Fabrics, wine shop, gourmet cheese and coffee shop, stationary store, furniture shop, women's clothing/jewelry and gift shop, and cafes/restaurants.

Pyramid Mall , Ithaca www.pyramidithaca.com
Includes Bon Ton, Sears, The Gap, Old Navy, Bath & Body Works, Best Buy, Borders, Target, A.C. Moore (crafts store), Pampered Pets, Abercrombie & Fitch , Victoria 's Secret, Eddie Bauer, Payless Shoe Source, PacSun

The Community Corners , Ithaca (Hanshaw and Triphammer roads)
Talbot's (women's clothing), Terra Rosa (gifts), florist, dry cleaners, deli, tailor, etc..

Route 13 Ithaca (south of downtown)
Pier 1 Imports, Barnes & Noble, K-mart, Eastern Mountain Sports, Michael's (craft store), Office Max, Staples

South Meadow Marketplace
Walmart, Bed, Bath and Beyond, PetsMart. Home Depot is also near these, south on route 13

Arnot Mall , Horseheads (35 minutes) www.arnotmall.net
Includes Bon Ton, Kaufmann's, JC Penney, Sears, The Gap / Gap Kids, Victoria 's Secret; near other shopping centers such as Sam's Club, Wal-Mart, Bed Bath & Beyond, Barnes & Noble and Old Navy

Carousel Mall , Syracuse (1 hour) www.carouselcenter.com
Three-level mega mall that includes Lord & Taylor, JCPenney's, Bon Ton, Kaufmann's, Victoria's Secret, Ann Taylor, The Limited, Bath & Body Works, Pottery Barn, H&M, Banana Republic and many others

Prime Outlets (Route 318, outside Waterloo - 45 minutes) www.premiumoutlets.com/outlets/outlet.asp?id=9
Outlet mall that includes outlets for Casual Corner, The Gap, JCrew, Polo, Reebok, Geoffrey Beene, Ann Taylor, S&K Menswear and many others

Spas
Alta Spa - 308 E. State Street , 273-6818
Bodyworks - 402 N. Cayuga St , 277-2593/ in Courtside Fitness Center , 277-0200
European Skin Care - 356 Snyder Hill Road , 273-8639
Healing Hands of Ithaca - 108 W. Buffalo , 272-9002
Innovations (Sharon Summerson)- 114 N. Cayuga St. , 273-5008
Stress Out Massage Therapy & Day Spa - 414 N. Tioga St. , 275-9736 (Laura is a highly recommended waxer)

Storage Facilities
Sunny's Self-Storage - 1253 W. Danby Rd , Newfield, 275-0129 ( 10-15 min drive, worth it because it's cheap!! ) 

Grocery Stores

Aldi - Route 13 and Third St .
Mainly store-brand generic items with a few brand-name items. Limited selection, but prices are significantly lower. You pay $.25 for your grocery cart (which is refunded when you return the cart) and $.05 per grocery bag (or you can bring your own bag).

Greenstar Cooperative Market - Buffalo St. & Route 13, 273-9392
A not-for-profit natural foods supermarket specializing in organic produce. You do not have to be a member to shop here, although members receive discounts.

Ithaca Farmer's Market - Third Street , on the west side of Route 13
Open seasonally, 9 a.m.-2 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays; 3-7 p.m. Thursdays
Fresh vegetables, fruits, herbs, eggs, meats, baked goods and craft items; ranked one of the top 10 farmer's markets in the United States .

P&C - Cayuga Mall (Route 13 & Triphammer Road , 257-7095)/ East Hill Plaza ( Pine Tree Rd , 272-5836)
ok selection and reasonable prices; bakery, deli and butcher services, with a pharmacy next door

Top's - 614 S. Meadow St , 272-7959/ near Pyramid Mall, 257-4952
Good selection and reasonable prices; bakery, deli, pharmacy and butcher services. Good selection of international foods. Selections of bulk dry food, such as crackers, nuts, and dried fruit.

Wegman's - 500 S. Meadow St, 277-5800
Largest and most gourmet market in town with pretty competitive prices; has an excellent selection and high quality meats and produce; also has an in store bakery, deli, butcher, some international foods, organic foods, pharmacy, videos, flowers, coffee, café and baby-sitting service for kids over age 3.

Ludgates - 552 Hanshaw Rd , 257-1765
Small market with organic produce and some natural and local specialty items. Prices tend to be a little higher

Win Li Market - 374 Elmira , 277-6790 specializes in Asian grocery items

Thrift Stores
Mama Goose - 401 Seneca St : 269-0600
Salvation Army - 381 Elmira Road , 273-3872
State Street Bargain House - 516 W. State St. , 273-2303
Trader K's - 215 E. State St : 272-4011

Toy Stores
Alphabet Soup - 133 The Commons, 272-6885/ Pyramid Mall, 257-0900
Target - Pyramid Mall, 257-3387
The Cat's Pajamas - Dewitt Mall, 272-5582 

Transportation
Airline Limousine, 1-800-273-9197
Greyhound (bus service), 1-800-231-2222
New York Trailways (bus service), 1-800-295-5555
Short Line (bus service), 277-8800, www.shortlinebus.com (service now extends to NYC)
Tompkins Consolidated Area Transit (TCAT), 277-RIDE, www.tcatbus.com
Provides regular, convenient, inexpensive bus service for Cornell and the community
Tompkins County Airport , www.ithaca-airport.com
US Airways , 1-800-428-4322
Provides service at the Tompkins County Airport
Ithaca Dispatch , 277-7777 . www.ithacataxi.biz
Finger Lakes Taxi , 277-0611

Restaurants

Asian
Asia Cuisine - 126 N. Aurora St : 256-8818
College Café - 321 College Ave. , 277-8899
Excellent Korean and Japanese food in a casual atmosphere
Hai Hong Chinese Restaurant - 602 W. State St. , 272-1668
Fresh food; clean restaurant
King Buffet - 720 S. Meadow St , 256-3388
Great Buffet with extensive offerings
Kyushu Hibachi & Sushi Bar - 2300 Triphammer Rd ( Tops Plaza ), 257-6788
Plum Tree - 113 Dryden Rd , 256-8212
Recommended for sushi

Bakeries
Home Dairy -14 E. State St. , 273-2212
Fresh cookies, cakes, pies, and breads
Ithaca Bakery/ Collegetown Bagel - 400 N. Meadow St. , 273-7110
203 N. Aurora St. , 273-2848
East Hill Plaza , 273-1036
415 College Ave. , 273-0982
Triphammer Mall, 257-2255
(Pastries, sandwiches, coffee, bagels, bread)
Pie Girl - 1006 W. Seneca St. , 273-9800

Breakfast/Brunch
Statler Hotel - 113 East Ave , 257-2500
Sunday Brunch
Manos Diner - 257 Elmira Road , 273-1173
Old Diner Atmosphere, Cheap
Bistro Q - 702 W. Buffalo Street, 277-3287
Casual Atmosphere
Greek House Restaurant - 119 Dryden Road, 272-7207
Old Diner Atmosphere, Cheap and Fast
Café Dewitt - 215 N. Cayuga St. , 273-3473
Not much seating room, but known for the Sunday brunch

Casual Dining
The Pines - 1213 Taughannock Blvd , 273-3709
Good and cheap food with a family atmosphere. Good Burgers.
Antlers - 1159 Dryden Road , 273-9725 www.antlersrestaurant.com
All American dining, historic steakhouse atmosphere, good food
Café Dewitt - 215 N. Cayuga St. , 273-3473
Great Salads and sandwiches, Sunday Brunch
Stella's Bar & Restaurant - 403 College Ave , 277-1490
Eclectic food; funky atmosphere
Maxie's Supper Club - 635 W. State St. , 272-4136
Southern-inspired cuisine, fun atmosphere
Wegman's Supermarket -500 S. Meadow St, 277-5800
Pasta and omelets made to order; good wokery bar, pizza, fresh sushi
Robert Purcell Community Center - North Campus
Great Sunday Brunch
Just a Taste - 116 N. Aurora St. , 277-9463
Wine and tapas bar and restaurant, fun menu to pick and choose from
Moosewood Restaurant - Dewitt Mall, 273-9610
Vegetarian menu that changes daily. Offers just a handful of entrée options
Tower Club at Ithaca College -14th floor, East Tower , Rt. 96B, 274-3393
Great lunch buffet, reasonable price
Lost Dog Café - 112 S. Cayuga St , 277-9143
American cuisine, including excellent pasta dishes and sandwiches)
Simeon's on the Commons - 224 E. State St , 272-4011 (Outdoor seating in summer months)
Ralph's' Ribs - 344 Elmira Rd, 277-7427
Mahogany Grill - 114 N Aurora St , 272-1438

Fine Dining
The Heights Café and Grill - Community Corners, 257-4144
Upscale American fare. Owners are Culinary Institute of America graduates. Expensive
John Thomas Steakhouse - 1152 Danby Road (Route 96B), 273-3464
Upscale steakhouse: steaks, chicken, fish, and wonderful garlic mashed potatoes
Le Ducs - 113 S. Cayuga St : 277-8942
French cuisine in an intimate setting
Pangea -120 Third St. , 273-8515
Creative and inspired cuisine drawing on international flavors. Cozy and colorful space. Also can be a casual dining atmosphere. A few dining menus are offered and
various sizes of dishes are available. Excellent desserts. Outdoor seating available in the summer!
Madeline's - 215 E. State St , 277-2253
Excellent pan asian fare, quiet atmosphere
Willow - 202 E Falls St. , 272-0656
Small intimate atmosphere, good food, limited selection
Taughannock Farms Inn - Rt. 89 across from Taughannock Falls State Park , 387-7711
Views of Cayuga Lake . Reservations recommended.
Renees - 115 South Quarry St , 277-4047 www.reneesfeast.com/renees/intro.mgi
Restaurant is tucked away, but good food for those who can find it!
Simply Red Village Bistro - 53 E Main , Trumansburg, 387-5313
ZaZa's Cucina - 621 Cascadilla Street , 273-9292

Greek
Aladdin's Natural Eatery -100 Dryden Road , 273-5000
Great chili, salads, pitas, desserts, and other Greek foods, good prices!
The Souvlaki House- 315 Eddy St , 273-1650

Indian
New Delhi Diamonds - 106 W Green St , 272-4508
Great food, extra spicy - order mild if you can't tolerate very spicy food, service is sometimes slow

Ice Cream Parlors
Purity Ice Cream Co .- corner of Rt. 13 and Cascadilla, 272-1545
Local company, excellent freshly made ice cream, shakes, ice cream cakes, pie etc.
Cornell Dairy Bar - Stocking Hall, on campus, 255-3272
Great home-made ice cream and dairy products
Near Far Ice Cream & Confectionery - 105 W. State St., next to the State Theatre
Purity Ice Cream, penny candy, and baked goods. 

Italian
Franco's - Rt. 96B, 277-6666
Casual atmosphere, extensive menu with competitive pricing, salad and breadsticks with most meals, view of Lake Cayuga , seasonal patio dining available
Lucatelli's Ristorante -205 Elmira Road , 273-0777
Homemade pasta and excellent prime rib. Great salad bar and extensive menu
ZaZa's Cucina - 622 Cascadilla, borders on Rt. 13, across from Purity Ice Cream
Northern Italian cuisine, limited menu, call ahead on weekends, great atmosphere, above average prices. 

Mexican Etc.
Rongovian Embassy - 1 W. Main St. , Trumansburg, 387-3334
Pizza, pasta, and Mexican food
Viva Taqueria - 101 North Aurora , 277-1752
Great Tex-Mex food at great prices, great new bar area for happy hour, dine in or takeout available
Chili's - 614 S. Meadow St. (Rt. 13), (Mix of American and Mexican dishes, take advantage of call-ahead seating to decrease your wait time - can get very busy
during peak dinner and weekend hours) 

Pizza
The Nines -311 College Ave. , 272-1888
Great deep-dish pizza; free delivery
Rongovian Embassy -1 W. Main St. , Trumansburg, 387-3334
Pizza, pasta, Mexican food and live music
Pizza Aroma - 128 Cayuga St S. , 273-6165
Pizza Hut - 2301 N. Triphammer Rd , 257-2778
Papa Johns's - Rt. 13, 273-PAPA
They deliver to the outskirts of Ithaca , the pizza is hit or miss
Mama Teresa - 139 Dryden Rd , 272-6262
Rogan's Pizza -  
825 Danby Rd (Route 96b) , 273 6006
23 Cinema Drive , Small Mall (behind Triphammer Mall) , 257 2757
Great delivery pizza 

Seafood
Boatyard Grill - 525 Taughannock Blvd , 256-2628
Contemporary American cuisine, good seafood on the lake
Maxie's Supper Club - 635 W. State St. 272-4136
Southern-inspired cuisine, fun atmosphere

South American
Mi Casita - 704 West Buffalo Street , 273-1113 - Right on the Cayuga inlet
Costa Rican and Creole style cuisine. Good food and impressive dessert case! 

Thai
Thai Cuisine - 501 S. Meadow, 273-2031
Excellent food with generous portions. Claims to have the best Thai in NY state, including NYC!
Taste of Thai - 216 E. State St , 256-5487
Great food and atmosphere

Coffeeshops
Gimme Coffee - 430 N. Cayuga St , 277-8393, www.gimmecoffee.com
(The main coffee "chain" in Ithaca , pretty good coffee)
Juna's Café - 146 Ithaca Commons , 256-4292, www.junascafe.com
Good vegan options for snacks, decent coffee
Stella's Café - 403 college Ave, 277-1490
Cool atmosphere to sit and read, good and interesting coffee drinks
The Carriage House Café - 305 Stewart Avenue , 645-0152
A quiet café with some breakfast options, pastries and coffee in a gorgeously renovated space

Also visit: www.dining.14850.com to research restaurants in Ithaca and surrounding towns.
Also, an article features a different eatery each week.

Pet Resources

Adoptions
Tompkins County SPCA - 1640 Hanshaw Rd , 257-1822, www.spcaonline.com
Volunteering, adoptions for cats/dogs, lost and found; also check out their web site for extensive listing of pet providers. 

Dog Park
Allan H. Treman State Marine Park - Route 89, RR 10, 272-1460 (Unofficial dog park) 

Groomers
The Clip Joint - 331 S Cayuga St , 273-2656
Reasonable pricing
Claws & Paws - 209 Dey St , 272-1747
Pay by the hour. Must book far in advance 

Kennels
Bed & Biscuit - 419 Van Dorn Road , 277-2126 (recommended)
Cedar Brook Kennel - 170 Buck Road , Lansing , 533-7223
Dryden Countryside Veterinary Hospital , Dryden, 844-9188
Ithaca Animal Care and Resort - 1653 Slaterville Road , 275-9240 

Pets and People
Cornell Companions - 607-253-3778
www.vet.cornell.edu/public/companions
Leslie D. Appel, DVM, Program Coordinator
Volunteer organization where people with their pets visit children with disabilities, nursing home patients, and hospital patients. Promotes the belief that animals enhance the lives of people. 

Pet Sitters
Jan Momartz -375-6630
Pet Friends - 277-0800 

Doggie Day Care
Jill's Doggy Day Care - 838-3535
Canine Comfort Doggy Daycare - 273-4342
Mountaintop Doggy Days - 272-2056 

Training Dog Clubs
Finger Lakes Agility and Obedience Association - 844-8681
Offers beginners and advanced obedience and agility classes.
Ithaca Dog Training Club - 272-8596
Offers beginners and advanced obedience and classes.
Kerry Boisvert - 257-4040 (recommended by a JV member) 

Veterinarians
Cayuga Pet Hospital - Dr. Muffoletto - Lansing Village Place , 257-8401
Colonial Veterinary Clinic - 2369 N. Triphammer Road , 257-3650 (Dr. Hackett is recommended)
Cornell Vet Hospital - Route 366, 253-3060 (pricey but excellent services)
Home Veterinary Services - Dr. Jeanne Baines, 273-5805
Ithaca Veterinary Housecall Services - Dr. Claire Berian, 277-9037  

Outdoor Entertainment

Golf Courses and Ranges
Dryden Lake (9 holes) - 430 Lake Road , Dryden, 844-9173
Hickory Hollow Pro Range - 158 Waterwagon Road , 257-8633
Hillendale Golf Course (18 holes) - 218 Applegate Road , 273-2363
Newman Municipal - Pier Road , 273-6262
Robert Trent Jones Course (18 holes) - Warren Road , 257-3661 (Cornell's course)
Stonehedge Golf Course (9 holes) - Lick Street Extension, Groton , 898-3754
Trumansburg Golf Course (18 holes) - Halsey Road , Trumansburg, 387-8844 

Horseback Riding
Lopinto Farms - Freeville, 347-6556
Cornell Equestrian Center - Pine Tree Road , Lessons only
Red Hawk Ranch - Trumansburg, 387-7859 

Orchards, Produce and U-Pick
Bakers Acres of North Lansing - 1114 Auburn Road , Groton , 533-3650
Brookton Hollow Farms - Banks Road , Brooktondale, 273-2621
Cornell Apple Orchards - Route 366, 255-4542
Glen Haven Farm - Trumansburg, 387-9031
Grisamore Farms - Goose Street , Locke, 497-1347
Indian Creek Fruit Farm - 1408 Trumansburg Road , 272-1222
Iron Kettle Farm - Route 96B South, Candor, 659-7707
Little Tree Orchards - 345 Shaffer Road , Newfield, 594-9246 (Also has fields of flowers)
Ludgate Farms Natural Foods - 1552 Hanshaw Road , 257-1765
Sunrise Plantations - Groton , 533-4094 

Skiing (cross-country)
Danby State Forest - Off Route 96B, in Danby, 753-3095
Greek Peak Nordic Ski Center - 2000 Route 392, Cortland
1-800-955-2754 - general, 1-800-365-7669 - ski conditions
Hammond Hill State Forest - Off Irish Settlement Road , Dryden, 753-3095
Podunk Cross - Country Ski Center , Podunk Road , Trumansburg, 387-6716
Shindagin Hollow State Forest - Off Route 115, Caroline, 753-3095
Yellow Barn State Forest - Off Yellow Barn Road , Dryden, 753-3095

Rentals
Bike Rack - 409 College Ave : 272-1010 (cross country skis)
Mountain Edge Outfitters - 171 E. State Street (The Commons), 273-5158, www.mountainedgeoutfitters.com
Eastern Mountain Sports - $20 for three days of cross country ski rental, a % off if you decide to purchase skis within two weeks of rental

Skiing (downhill)
Greek Peak Ski Resort - 2000 Route 392, Cortland , 1-800-955-2754
Labrador Mountain - Route 90, Truxton, 1-800-446-9559
Song Mountain - Otisco Road , Tully, 315-696-5711, 1-800-677-SONG
Toggenburg - Toggenburg Road , Fabius, 315-683-5842

Wineries
Finger Lakes Wine Country Information - 936-0706, www.fingerlakeswinecountry.com
Many wineries and tours available
Frontenac Point Vineyard Winery - 9501 Route 89, Trumansburg, 387-9619
Six-Mile Creek Vineyard & Winery - 1551 Slaterville Road (Route 79 East), 272-9463
Goose Watch Winery - 5480 Route 89, Romulus , Tasting room: 315-549-2599, Office: 315-549-8326 

Parks
Buttermilk Falls State Park - Off Route 13 South, 273-5761
Beautiful hiking trail with gorge views, swimming, picnic areas, fishing, playground areas
Cass Park - 701 Taughannock Blvd , 273-1090
Olympic-sized pool, baby pool, tennis courts, picnic areas, ice-skating
Cayuga Nature Center - Taughannock Boulevard , 273-6260
128-acre environmental education center 6 miles north of Ithaca
Circle Greenway - 108 E. Green St , 274-6570
10-mile walk by gorges, Cayuga Lake , Cornell, and The Commons
Cornell Plantations - 1 Plantation Road , 255-3020
Hiking and nature study trails, picnic areas, duck pond for the kids
Lansing Village Community Park - Uptown Road
Shaded playground and picnic area
Myers Point Park - Lansing
Beach, playground, camping, picnic areas; on Cayuga Lake
Robert H. Treman State Park - Route 327 (off Route 13 South), 273-3440
Hiking, swimming, picnic areas, playground areas
Sapsucker Woods Sanctuary - 159 Sapsucker Woods Road , 254-2473
Waterfowl and wildlife sanctuary
Stewart Park - Routes 13 and 34, 273-8364
Playground, picnic areas, carousel
Taughannock Falls State Park - Off Route 89 North, 387-6739
A 215-foot waterfall, hiking, picnic areas, swimming, fishing, playground areas. In the winter, there is ice skating on an outdoor pond and sledding down rice hill

Day Trips
Corning - www.corningny.com ; www.cmog.org (1 hr) excellent glass museum, is highly recommended
Skaneateles - www.skaneateles.com (1hr15min) cute town on top of Lake Skaneateles , winter festival is highly recommended
Saratoga Springs - www.saratoga.org (3 ½ hrs) cute town on the edge of the Adirondack National Forest , horse races in summer

Indoor Entertainment

Bowling
Bowl-O-Drome - 401 Third St , 273-7953
Helen Newman Hall - Cornell University , 255-4200
Ide's Bowling Lanes - 350 Pine Tree Road , 273-4111 

Crafts and Hobbies
AC Moore - 40 Catherwood Rd : 257-7870
Offers classes in basic sewing, quilting, and variety of other crafts.
Knitting Machines, Etc. - 903 Mitchell St. 277-1164
Knitting and crocheting classes
Michael's Arts and Crafts - 614 S. Meadow St : 272-2465
Offers classes in basic sewing, quilting, and variety of other crafts.
Homespun Boutique - 314 E. State St : 277-0954
Cornell Ceramics Studio - Willard Straight Hall on Campus, 255-5170,
www.sao.cornell.edu/ceramics
Offers beginning and intermediate pottery classes. Spouses of students receive a discount on tuition.
Jo-Ann Fabrics and Crafts - Triphammer Mall, 257-2100
Offers classes in basic sewing, quilting, and variety of other crafts. 

Ice Skating
Cass Park Rink - 701 Taughannock Blvd , 273-9211
Lynah Rink - Cornell Campus
The Rink Skating Arena - 1767 E. Shore Dr , 277-7465

Observatories
Fuertes Observatory - Cornell campus, near Helen Newman Hall
Open to the public on clear Friday nights from 8 p.m. or dusk (whichever is latest) to midnight 

Movie Theaters
Cinemapolis - 171 E. State St. (The Commons), 277-6115
Cornell Cinema - Willard Straight Hall, Cornell, 255-3522
Fall Creek Pictures - 1201 N. Tioga St , 272-1256
Hoyts Cinemas - Pyramid Mall, 257-2700
For listings go to: www.fandango.com 

Museums and Galleries
Dewitt Historical Society Museum - 401 E. State St , 273-8284
Exhibits on Tompkins County and Ithaca
Handwerker Gallery - Caroline Werner Gannett Center , Ithaca College , 274-3018
Contemporary art, graphic art, photographs, and African and pre-Columbian art
Herbert F. Johnson Museum of Art - Cornell University , 255-6464
Asian and contemporary art
Hinckley Museum - 410 Seneca St , 273-7053
18th- and 19th-century regional, domestic, decorative, and folk art
John Hartell Gallery - Sibley Dome, Cornell, 255-5046
Student and faculty works
Olive Tjaden Gallery - Tjaden Hall, Cornell, 255-6730
Student and faculty works
Paleontological Research Institution - 1259 Trumansburg Road , 273-6623
Largest fossil collection in the nation
Sciencenter - 601 First St , 272-0600
Hands-on children's museum; members can visit other area facilities (including Science &
Discovery Center , in Horseheads; Roberson Museum and Science Center , in Binghamton ; and
The Discovery Center , in Syracuse ) at no extra cost
State of the Art Gallery - 120 W. State St , 277-1626
Contemporary Art 

Music Groups and Ensembles
Cayuga Chamber Orchestra - 116 N. Cayuga St , Clinton House, 273-8981
Professional orchestra with nationally known soloists
The Cayuga Vocal Ensemble - P.O. Box 95 , 273-3586
Professional vocal ensemble
Community School of Music & Arts - 328 E. State St , 272-1474
Center for arts education and performing ensembles for all ages
Ithaca Opera Association - 116 N. Cayuga St , Clinton House, 272-0168
Professional Opera Company
Music in Motion - 201 Hampton Road , 257-6196
Dance presentation services, including ballet, music theatre, and opera
NYS Baroque - 616 Coddington Road , 273-1581
Orchestra that specializes in 17th- and 18th- century music 

Night Clubs (if we can call them that :))
ABC Café - 308 Stewart Ave , 277-4770
Live folk, jazz, and blues
Chapter House Brewpub - 400 Stewart Ave , 277-9782
The Haunt - 702 Willow Ave (off Rt. 13), 275-3447
Live blues, reggae, rock, and alternative
Madeline's - 215 E. State St , 277-2253
Live jazz on weekends
The Nines - 311 College Ave , 272-1888
Live blues, rock
Republica - 410 Eddy St , 256-0717
Hip-hop, reggae, jazz, Latin
Stella's - 403 College Ave , 277-1490
Castaways - 415 Taughannock Blvd, 272-7905, www.castawaysithaca.com
Rongovian Embassy - 1 West Main Street, Trumansburg, 387-3334 www.rongo.com

Professional Theaters and Dance Troupes
Cornell Center for Theatre Arts - 430 College Ave , 254-ARTS
Home to Cornell's Department of Theatre Arts and the Cornell Dance Series
Firehouse Theatre - 277-7529
Plays, concerts, poetry readings, jazz, children's theatre
Hanger Theatre - 273-4497 / 1-800-724-0999
Dramas, comedies, musicals, children's theatre, and one-act plays
Ithaca Ballet - 105 Sheldon Road , 277-1967
Nationally known repertory company; classic and contemporary works
Ithaca College Theatre - 210 Dillingham Center, 274-3224
Department of Theatre Arts
Kitchen Theatre - 116 N. Cayuga St , 273-4497
Contemporary theatre 

Miscellaneous Activities
BOCES (Ithaca-area Board of Cooperative Educational Services)
555 Warren Road , 257-1551
Offers a variety of classes for continuing education or lighter interests. Subjects include music, cooking, computers, languages and crafts, and are held in a variety of
locations.
Community School of Music and Arts
328 E. State St. , 272-1475
Provides instruction in music, dance, theater, and visual arts for all ages.
Cornell Cooperative Extension of Tompkins County
615 Willow Ave. , 272-2292
Offers programs and information on such topics as youth development, nutrition, community development, and consumer education.
Cornell Plantations
1 Plantations Rd , 225-3020, www.plantations.cornell.edu
Offers classes, workshops, and lectures by experts in horticulture, natural history, landscape design, and botanical arts.
Outdoor Education
B01 Bartels Hall, 255-6183, www.coe.cornell.edu
Offers classes in backpacking, biking, caving, wall climbing, hiking, paddling, skiing, snowshoeing, and more. Also rents outdoor gear and equipment.
The Studio at the Corning Museum
One Museum Way, Corning (45 mins from Ithaca ), 607-974-6467
www.cmog.org/studio/index.htm
Offers weekly, weekend and one day classes on glassblowing and other glass related arts.
Wegman's Supermarket
500 S. Meadow St. , 277-5800
Wegman's houses a beautiful cooking facility with comfortable seating and a demonstration kitchen. Guest chefs include professionals from Ithaca and nearby communities, as well as national and international culinary personalities. Classes and events are announced on a monthly basis.
Finger Lakes School of Massage
1251 Trumansburg Rd , 272-9024
Massage therapy classes
Lingual Learning Center
Foreign language study for children ages 3 and up
http://www.lingualearning.com/about.html

Housing

Ithaca Neighborhoods

Belle Sherman and East Hill: Residential family neighborhood just east of Collegetown. Great public schools. 15-minute level walk to campus (no hill). Approx. 1 mile from East Hill Plaza (a shopping area with a 24-hour grocery store, Burger King, hair salon, liquor store, and deli).

Cayuga Height/Cornell Heights: West and north of campus. Cayuga Heights is a quiet residential neighborhood with large homes and tends to be more expensive. Cornell Heights contains apartment buildings, fraternities, and sororities and can be loud due to stereos and parties. Short Drive and approx. 20-25-minute walk to campus.

Collegetown: South of campus. Easy 5 or 10-minute walk to campus uphill. Popular with undergraduate students. The area is like a miniature city where shopping and restaurants are available. Rents tend to be higher and noise can be a problem. Lower Collegetown has nice homes split into apartments.

Ellis Hollow: South-east of campus. Very community-oriented. 15- to 20-minute level walk to campus. ½ mile from East Hill Plaza (a shopping area with a 24-hour grocery store, Burger King, hair salon, liquor store, and deli).

Fall Creek/Downtown: West of campus. 20-minute walk to campus uphill. Multi-family homes, single family homes, and apartments over shops. Close to The Commons (a local shopping area with unique shops). Bus service runs frequently through this area.

Northeast/Lansing: Close to shopping malls and grocery stores. Many apartment complexes. Lansing is less expensive because it is driving distance to Cornell. Bus service is less frequent through this area.

Sapsucker Woods: Quiet residential area north of Cayuga Heights . Residential homes and duplexes for rent. Driving distance to Cornell or must use bus services to Cornell. Most properties have yards and may allow pets.

South Hill: Home of Ithaca College . Newer homes can be found in this area of town. Short walk to downtown and The Commons. Short drive to south side of Route 13 and shopping (Walmart, Wegmans, HomeDepot etc). This area may be less convenient for Cornell Students.

West Hill/Cayuga Lake: Lake houses and cottages. Less practical for Cornell students because of its driving distance from campus. Check the insulation as the winter heating bills can be astronomical. Note whether a property is advertised as a house (probably insulated) or a cottage (not insulated). Great in the summer.

Some Things to Consider

For the best selection, we advise that you arrange a trip to Ithaca in the late spring/early summer. If this is not possible, plan to arrive several days prior to beginning school or work to complete your search. We do not recommend that you rent a place "sight unseen". Written or verbal descriptions may be deceiving.

Other considerations:
The price range depends on proximity to campus (the closer to campus the higher the rent), size of unit (generally, studios and one-bedrooms are more expensive per person than larger units), quality of unit, whether utilities are included or not, if it is furnished or unfurnished, and the general demand for the building.

Another factor to consider is the length of the lease. Generally, places are rented for twelve months. Subletting is usually permitted, but more tenants are trying to sublet in the summer than there are new renters available. Receiving full rent for your sublet is unusual, and you may need to absorb some of the cost. Keep in mind that subletting is not guaranteed. If you do not find a subtenant, you are responsible for the summer rent.

Shorter leases do exist. Although more difficult to find, you may be fortunate and find a ten-month lease, but your rent per month may be higher than a twelve-month lease.

If you arrive late in the summer and are looking for a place to live, try to negotiate with the property owner. He/She may be willing to strike a bargain at that time.

On-Campus Housing (for domestic groups)

Hasbrouck Apartments: Situated on north campus, adjacent to the university golf course and to a large student-union facility, Hasbrouck houses domestic groups (with and without children), some single students, and visiting scholars and post-doctoral fellows. The complex has a total of 338 studio, one-, and two-bedroom apartments situated in 28 two- and three-story masonry buildings. Hasbrouck is reasonably near public schools, shopping centers, and recreational facilities. There is frequent bus service.

Maplewood Apartments: Situated on the southeast edge of the central campus, Maplewood Park is convenient to the campus and is just a short 10-15 minute walk to the shopping and recreational facilities of East Hill Plaza . Maplewood is also served by city and campus buses. There is an elementary school in the neighborhood within easy walking distance. Maplewood Park contains 90 one-bedroom apartments for domestic groups, and 81multiple-bedroom apartments that can accommodate a total of 308 single graduate students. The single-student units are clustered separately from the domestic-group units. The apartments are in one-story buildings around courtyards.

Priorities Checklist
http://housing.cornell.edu/housing_residential/off_campus_priorities_checklist.asp

What to consider when finding a place to live....

1. Determine Your Needs

• How much can you afford to pay?
• What locations are practical for you to live in? (consider safety, shopping, laundry, parking, and fun)
• Is transportation necessary and/or available?
• Do you need a furnished or unfurnished unit?
• Do you want to live by yourself or with others? (consider how many others, graduates or undergraduates)

2. Finding People to Live With

• Choose roommates carefully! (consider study habits, social habits, lifestyle and living expectations, and responsibilities).
• Discuss in detail all types of issues with prospective roommates before you enter into any formal type of living arrangement.
• The people you live with can have a profound effect on your enjoyment of off-campus living.

3. Finding a Place to Live

• After you and your roommates have determined your needs, check:
• Off-Campus Life Office at 201 Robert Purcell Community Center
• Classified Ads ( Ithaca Journal, Cornell Sun, Ithaca Times)
• Friends (word of mouth is very important)
• Bulletin Boards

4. Speak with Prospective Property Owners

• What is the monthly rent? When and where is it to be paid?
• What types of deposits does the property owner require and how much are they? (cleaning, security, pets) Are they refundable?
• Are utilities (heat, hot water, electricity, gas, trash) included in the monthly rental payment?
• Are pets allowed? If yes, what kind?
• Who is responsible for maintenance and repairs?
• Voice any special concern such as ability to sublet, add extra people to the lease (is there an additional charge?)
• Are there any special rules that the property owner requires that you follow? Be sure both tenant and landlord/lady understand responsibilities and expectations.

5. Doing Your Research

• Check to insure that your prospective new home is not in violation of the City of Ithaca Building Code . You can do this by checking with the Off-Campus Life program (607) 255-5368 or by calling the City of Ithaca Building Department at 108 E. Green St. (607) 274-6508.
• Check with New York State Electric & Gas (NYSEG) at 1-800-572-1111 to see what the cost of utilities were over the past year.
• Examine the amount of parking available in your new neighborhood. Be sure you are aware of the on-street parking regulations that you are expected to abide by or any associated parking costs.
• Contact the Housing Office and ask if there are any complaints on your prospective landlord/landlady.
• If the property is currently occupied, go and talk with the tenants. Ask questions regarding prompt handling of problems by the property owner, pests that may be in the dwelling, noise levels during the week and on weekends, and water pressure.

6. The Lease

• Be sure to read the entire lease and understand everything before you sign.
• Document all verbal agreements (repairs, painting, etc.) and be sure that notations of them are signed on all copies of the lease.
• Always pay using a check, money order or bank cashier's check. Never pay in cash unless you immediately get a written receipt!
• Remember that both the tenant's and the property owner's rights should be protected.
• Off-Campus Life is available to review your lease before you sign it. Call for an appointment at (607) 255-1121.

7. Moving In and Moving Out

• Before you move in inspect for damages with the owner or manager. Fill out a room inspection sheet, and make notations as to the condition of the apartment, house, or room.
• When you leave at the end of the lease period, inspect again with the owner for any damages. With this documentation, you will be more assured of receiving your security deposit back.

Additional Resources for Housing

A good website for real estate agents and rentals is the following: http://www.ithacanet.org/Business/#real 

Careers 

Employment Resources

Local Employers
(within 25 mile radius of Ithaca, "607" area codes if not otherwise specified)

Information For Significant Others Looking for Positions in K-12 Schools 

Helpful Websites

Local Public School Districts

Private Schools and Specialized Public Schools

2004-2005 Working Spouses/Partners Contact List

Family

Day Care Resources

Working Parents: Information for Parents Working or Studying at Cornell . Publication available at Cornell's Office of Equal Opportunity, 234 Day Hall, or at Cornell's Employment Services. It explains childcare availability in Ithaca and although it is specifically directed toward the Cornell community, it is helpful for anyone with childcare concerns.

Day Care and Child Development Council of Tompkins County .
609 W. Clinton St. , 273-0259. www.daycarecouncil.org
The Council offers a valuable source of information for parents new to Ithaca . This organization publishes a booklet, "Programs for Young Children in Tompkins County" which lists and describes all programs available for young children in the county. The booklet includes day care centers, drop-in programs, before- and after-school programs, private schools, nursery and preschools as well as summer camps and family child care homes. The council will help you locate childcare near home or work, can put you in touch with various day care providers and will guide you through the complex process of selecting the best child care for you.

Some notes of importance :

Day Care Providers / Preschool

* GFDC=Group Family Day Care   

The following web address will provide you with a very robust list of school age child care options throughout Tompkins County . Visit http://www.daycarecouncil.org/saccs.htm for more information.

Public Schools

Ithaca City School District
400 Lake Street
274-2201
www.icsd.k12.ny.us

For your child to matriculate, you must provide the school district with an immunization record and a withdrawal note from your child's previous school. It is wise to keep copies of all paperwork you file with the school district. Children must be 5 years old by December 1 to attend kindergarten.

A good website for schools in the area is www.co.tompkins.ny.us/youth/schools.html

Nearby school districts
Newfield Central School 564-9955 www.newfieldschools.org
Dryden Central School 844-8694 www.dryden.k12.ny.us
Lansing Central School 533-4760 www.lansingschools.org
Trumansburg Central School 387-7551 www.tburg.k12.ny.us

Private Schools

Other Children's Programs

Check out Ithaca Child , a local publication available at local grocery stores and coffee houses, for the latest information on children's activities in the area or visit www.ithacachild.net.

Personal Referrals

The following parents have volunteered their information to help you in your search for daycares or schools for your children. Please feel free to contact them with any questions you may have about their experiences or the specific program or provider they chose.

Expecting Parents Information

Cayuga Medical Center Hospital Tours , Director of Maternal-Child Health: Terry Koski, 274-4011, 101 Dates Dr. www.cayugamed.org//lifespan/read.dbm?ID=54 You can take a free hospital tour to see their 6 LDRP Birthing Rooms.

Yoga Corner - Pregnancy Yoga Classes, 257-3677, ajohnson@lightlink.com , www.theyogacorner.com . For relaxation and comfort during pregnancy (after your first trimester), pregnancy yoga is offered at Community Corners (Hanshaw Road) each Wednesday evening from 5:30 p.m. to 6:45 p.m. Cost: $15 per class or $48/4 classes; $88/8 classes. There is also a video available for home practice. (You may also join the Gentle Seniors program).

WIC Tompkins County

New Parent News

Mothers & Babies Perinatal Network of South Central New York, Inc.
45 Lewis Street
Binghamton , NY 13901
1-800-231-0744

Mothers - Retelling Our Birth Stories
Dalya Tamir; 272-0367, dalyatamir@aol.com

A New Baby! A support group for new mothers
Register at OB-GYN Associates of Ithaca in the Midwives office
Or call Caroline Border, CSW at 227-5813

Support Group for New Mothers
Weekly meetings held. You can call to arrange a pre-group interview.
Mary Lauppe, CSW; 277-2159
Rachael Shapiro, CSW, MPH; 275-011

All workshops are open to the public and are offered once each month. They are taught by staff members of the Cayuga Medical Center Maternal-Child Health Unit. Pre-registration and a small fee are required. To register call 607-274-4408, www.cayugamed.org/lifespan/subsection.dbm?subsection=birth

The Ithaca Birth Group
105 E. Marshall Street

Seminar/Discussion Topics

Childbirth Technique Classes

Contact:
Jennifer Gray 607-387-6694, grayjennifer@msn.com
Gail Birnbaum Registered Nurse, Certified Professional Midwife, Certified Lactation Consultant: 607-277-3455, gail@lightlink.com
www.ithacabirthgroup.org

The Realistic Expectations Workshops

Monthly classes are offered at OBGYN Associates of Ithaca and open to patients of any practitioner. 20 Arrowwood Dr . Fee per class is $25 or all three for $60. Private lessons are also available.
To register call: 607-898-4890, VSRN@aol.com
Offered by:
Parental Guidance, LLP
14 Sobers Rd
Groton , NY 13073
Valery Sweazey, RN. CLC
Tammy Leonardo, RN, CLC
Nicole Butler, RN
fingerlakeswebs.com/parentalguidance/faqs.htm

Childbirth Education Classes
Tompkins County Health Department, 274-6616.
401 Harris B. Dates Dr.
www.co.tompkins.ny.us/health/divisions/moms.htm .
Evening childbirth classes taught by Registered Professional Nurses at the Health Department.
Medicaid Obstetrical and Maternal Service (MOMS) Program  

Doulas
A doula is a woman experienced in childbirth who provides continuous physical, emotional, and informational support to the mother before, during and just after childbirth. She usually provides non-medical care.

The following website will provide information and links to all the doulas in the Ithaca area. www.ithacadoulas.com/contact.htm

Health Care Providers

Where to Seek Assistance

Driving Tips

Rules of the road

1. Drive on the right side of the street.
2. Right turns on red are allowed unless otherwise marked, as opposed to countries where you can never turn on red. Likewise, left turns on red are also allowed when turning from a one-way street to a one-way street.
3. Speed limits are strongly enforced, as opposed to countries where the police are lenient or speed limits don't exist at all. The highest speed allowed in NY State is 55 miles/hour unless otherwise marked. The police are, in general, quite strict in enforcing the driving laws.
4. Pedestrians are generally not careful - they have the tendency to cross as they please.
5. Drivers in the Ithaca area have the tendency to carelessly switch lanes without flashing.
6. Driving in the Ithaca area is generally slow-paced.
7. Meters control parking in many areas. Keep coins handy. No pennies are accepted.

Stop signs and intersections

1. Some intersections have stop signs on all four streets - as opposed to countries that only have stop signs on the two less important streets, meaning that cars on these streets don't have the right of way.
2. When reaching such an intersection (all four streets marked with stop signs), all four cars must stop - the car that reached the intersection first has the right of way, or the person to your right.
3. When reaching a stop sign you must come to a complete stop, regardless of whether there are other cars coming from other directions or not.
4. Stop signs and stoplights may be in a different part of the intersection. When there are many sets of traffic lights, you should obey the one directly facing you.
5. A driver entering a traffic circle, sometimes called a rotary, must yield the right of way to drivers already in the circle - in some countries it's the other way around.
6. Take note of one-way streets in Downtown Ithaca.

Emergency vehicles and school buses

1. You must pull over and stop for an emergency vehicle even if it's coming toward you in the opposite lane of a two-way roadway
2. When a school bus stops and flashes red lights, traffic approaching from either direction must stop before reaching the bus. You must stop for a school bus even if it's on the opposite side of a divided highway.
3. If you see a police car following you with lights flashing (even if there is no siren or other sound) you must pull over.

Police

1. The drinking and driving issue is taken very seriously here. One should never drive when drunk. The maximum amount allowed is one glass (4 ounces/120 ml) of wine, one ounce (30 ml) of whiskey or equivalent, or 12 ounces (360 ml) of beer. It is best to let someone else drive when having consumed even a little alcohol, because rules are very strict. If you are stopped for a chemical test and you refuse to take it, your license will be suspended when arraigned in court.
2. When pulled over by the police for a traffic violation you must stop the car and remain in your seat with hands on the wheel. You shouldn't move around, try to find your license, check in the glove compartment, etc.

Shopping Tips

International Cuisine (also see grocery stores in section one of this guide)

1. Wegman's - especially the international section
2. Top's, especially on Rt 13N - Dry goods, canned goods, frozen items, kimchee and pickled items. Also large selection of canned and dry goods from Lebanon , India , and other Asian countries
3. Win Li Oriental Store, on Rt 13 South right after McDonald's - mainly Chinese, but good selection of products from many Asian countries
4. Emily's Oriental Market at 910 W. State Street
5. Ithaca Tofu (behind Triphammer Mall) for Asian products

Syracuse International Cuisine

1. European meat products and deli - 419 S Wilbur Ave , 315-425-0745
2. Halal Food Market - 1758 Erie Blvd. E , 315-475-3864
3. Far East and Asian groceries - 924 N Townsend, 315-476-9630

On-line stores:

1. www.orientalpantry.com - Asian products
2. www.ethnicgrocer.com - shop by country or product - 15 different countries
3. www.3emarket.com -original Greek products - they also carry Italian and other Mediterranean products
4. www.titanfood.com - great selection of Greek foods
5. www.greekbooks.gr - Greek books - delivered to the US through regular mail in about 10-15 days
6. www.americanas.com - Latin American products
7. www.mycountrybrazil.com - Brazilian products
8. www.namaste.com- Indian grocery, books, CDs, DVDs
9. For Japanese books and magazines - KinokuNiya - Check at www.kinokuniya.co.jp/english/index.html for local stores.

General shopping tips:

1. Formal clothing is hard to find in Ithaca and quite expensive - especially for those used to specific brands or fashions - so it's a good idea to bring this kind of clothing from your home country.
2. "Business attire" is universal. "Business casual" usually means a collared shirt with a sweater or tie combined with dress pants or slacks (no jeans or sneakers) for men, and for women a blouse or nice sweater with slacks or a skirt.
3. For countries in which 220V electricity is used - it is hard to find a transformer here in the US . If you are planning on bringing electrical appliances with you, it's a good idea to bring a transformer from your home country.
4. If you need to have your shoes repaired, you can try Cobbler's Cottage, on Rt.13S across from K-Mart. You can bring any leatherwear there, and it's also a shop.

Housing Tips (also see Housing section in this guide)

1. Look as early as possible - preferably before June; otherwise, selection is limited. 
2. Check to make sure you have parking (if you are not in an apartment building).
3. Parking might be restricted for guests - check to make sure.
4. You may have to pay for garbage disposal (if you don't live in an apartment building).
5. Check with Cornell housing office and the Ithaca Visitors Bureau for tips on signing leases and rental agreements.
6. Many internationals recommend university housing - both Maplewood and Hasbrouck. A few more details:

• Maplewood is a very short level walk to campus (1.2 miles to Sage Hall). Especially recommended for those who would like to live very close to campus. The apartment is quite small but good for the price and perfect for a married couple with one toddler. If you have more than one child, it will to be too cramped for comfort
• Hasbrouck is also within walking distance from campus. The rent is low and includes gas and electricity. Hasbrouck is especially recommended for families with children, as it is a large community and will have many playmates for your kids. Apartments are small.

Furniture

For those not renting a furnished house or apartment, here are some possible inexpensive solutions.

1. Check the classified ads in the local newspaper or Ithaca Pennysaver for furniture for sale.
2. Furniture Works in Triphammer Mall - tasteful furniture at reasonable prices
3. IKEA (www.ikea-usa.com - tel. 1-800-434-IKEA) is a good choice for European style affordable furniture. The closest store is in Philadelphia (Plymouth Meeting Mall, 498 W. Germantown Pike, Plymouth Meeting, PA 19462) - around a three-hour drive. If you are headed toward Toronto for the weekend, there are ones in Toronto and Burlington . You can also order by catalog, but the shipping cost is quite high.
4. Salvation Army store ( 339 Elmira Road ) sometimes might have things.
5. If you are looking for used furniture, you could try Furniture Warehouse, 225 Elmira Rd , 275-3476 or search in the Yellow pages under "furniture used"

Another option is to rent furniture. Rent-A-Center has 2 locations in Ithaca (724 S. Meadow, and 313 3 rd ). There are also furniture rental places in Rochester and Syracuse .

Communication

There are many options for affordable communication with other countries.

Phone:

MCI, AT&T, Sprint, and other big carriers have calling plans where you designate one country and get lower rates for a small monthly fee (significant savings).  Weekends and evenings are often the best times to call for long distance and overseas. Make sure to check your phone bills thoroughly before paying them, because very often they have mistakes (especially in overseas phone calls). If you do find a mistake, call the phone company to clarify it.

You can inquire about long distance companies through you local carrier. Some include: Sprint: 1-800- 877-7746 and AT&T: 1-800-222-0300.

PC-to-phone/phone cards/pc-to-pc web sites (depending on the country you might be able to talk with very good rates or even for free):

• www.skype.com
• www.phonefree.com
• www.dialpad.com
• www.hottelephone.com - www.hottelelink.com
• www.pc2call.com
• www.myfreeld.com
• www.mediaring.com
• www.poptel.com
• www.telegroup.com
• www.unimobile.com (short text messages - for gsm mobile phones only)
• www.mtnsms.com (short text messages - for gsm mobile phones only)
• www.quios.com (short text messages - for gsm mobile phones only)

Tele-conference - All you need is a pc with a web camera, speakers, and a microphone (the other person needs to have the same, of course). Microsoft NetMeeting is tried and approved software for this.

Cellular Phones - There are many mobile phone companies and plans to choose from. Many people choose to get a cell phone instead of a home phone. In the hills around Ithaca reception with some companies is hard to get, so be sure you get a plan that meets your needs and reception isn't a problem. The most popular company is Verizon. Other companies include Sprint, Nextel, and Cingular Wireless.

Miscellaneous tips

Car insurance: If you are planning on buying a car, be aware that insurance is quite expensive for foreigners. Many companies will reduce the fee if you can provide them with documentation from your home country's company that you have had no accidents so far. If possible, check this out before you arrive to the US . When you get a US driver's license, insurance rates drop dramatically. You can check with www.insure.com or www.ambest.com for ratings of insurance providers.

Used cars: US used car dealers are notorious for trying to fool you. Always have the car you are thinking of buying checked by an independent (not associated with the dealer) mechanic. Check the Yellow Pages to find a mechanic and ask them if they will take a look at a car you are considering (they will charge a fee for this). The Dealer should have no problem with you taking the car to be checked out. You can also check at www.carfax.com to see if your car has ever been in a flood or major accident.

Daycare: To enroll a child in daycare you will need (among other things) proof that a doctor has examined him/her in the previous 90 days and found him/her healthy. It is a good idea to bring such documentation with you, together with detailed information on all immunizations.

Airline Tickets: For some countries it might be much cheaper to book tickets from your home country than from the US , so check it out. In addition, web sites with good prices are travelocity.com, expedia.com, and europebyair.com.

Dentists: Dentists are generally very expensive, and are usually not covered by insurance. It is best to have any tooth problems taken care of before you come to Ithaca .

Credit cards: Even if you have a credit card in your home country, when you come to the US you won't have any credit history. Therefore it's a good idea to get an American credit card as soon as possible, since good credit history is important for many transactions.

Identification documents: Even if you are a US citizen, you will probably have trouble at some point if you don't have a US driver's license, which is the most common form of ID. Even if you don't plan on getting an American driver's license, it is very helpful to go through the first step of the procedure - the written test - and thus obtain a NY State Learner's Permit. It is as valid as a driver's license as a form of ID, and you don't have to surrender your own country's driver's license, as is the case when getting an American driver's license. Another option is getting a Non-driver's ID from the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV). For obtaining a driver's license, Learner's Permit, or Non-driver's ID, you will need a number of ID documents from your home country. Call the DMV to find out what you need exactly.

The Yellow Pages: Can be very useful when moving to a new area. A copy should arrive when you set up your phone service. It is full of useful information, including emergency numbers and all sorts of services. It even has a great selection of menus for the local restaurants.

Education

There are several possibilities if you want to study in Ithaca :

Cornell

Extramural study - Cornell University invites you to further you career, continue your education, or simply have fun learning something new through extramural study . You can take courses throughout the semester at Cornell University even if you are not enrolled in a Cornell degree program; you can do so by registering for extramural study. The tuition is U$ 685 per credit (as of March 2002).

Visitor program - This program is designed for the student who does not wish to earn a college credit. No transcript, grade record, or proof of attendance in the class is kept. The School of Hotel Administration and The College of Veterinary Medicine do not allow visitors in their courses. The tuition is U$ 69 per credit (as of March 2002).

For more information: B20 Day Hall between the hours of 8:30am and 4:30pm - Monday through Friday or phone: (607) 255-4987.

English courses

Cornell Intensive English Programs: This is an intensive English course (minimum 20 hours per week) offered at Cornell University . More information available at 255-4863.

Cornell Campus Club : Organizes daytime and evening non - credit classes conducted by volunteers. Classes are open to all members of the Cornell community, but are especially directed to spouses of students and visiting scholars. For more information call Gail Sakai at 277-5209.

English as a Second Language - For Visiting Scholars : This is a course that emphasizes speaking and listening skills. For more information call Donna Coluni at 255-7259.

BOCES : Students have an opportunity to practice English speaking, reading, grammar, and writing skills. Although the classes are free, students may be required to purchase their own books. Students must make an appointment for a placement test by calling 273-4095.

Kaplan: provides intensive preparation for the TOEFL, while assisting students to improve ability to use English in academic settings. For further information, call Alison Wolfe at 277-3307.

Tompkins Cortland Community College : Offers intermediate and advanced level English courses. Interested students should contact the admission office at 844-8211, extension 4320.

Cascadilla School : offers a complete comprehensive ESL (English as Second Language) program for high school and adult students. For more information contact Joyce Lawrence or John Kendall at 277-3110.

The language expansion program: provides conversation partners for anyone interested in learning, improving or teaching a language. Interested students should go to the Public Service Center at 200 Barners Hall or call 255-1148.