Author

J.T. Stone

J.T. Stone is a multimedia journalist covering the town of Newfield. Having lived in Tompkins County for most of his life, J.T. is passionate about covering issues impacting county residents, with a focus on local government and community development. A 2025 graduate of SUNY Albany, J.T. has reported for publications including The Ithaca Voice, WRFI Community Radio, WAMC Northeast Public Radio and the Albany Times Union. He can be reached at jstone@albany.edu.

J.T.'s Latest Articles

Newfield nonprofits prepare for community meals, festivals and new traditions next year

Newfield Community Events in 2026 include Old Home Days, town meals, and local traditions highlighting volunteerism and community service.

‘Never forgotten’: Newfield to honor veterans with Wreaths Across America

Newfield participates in Wreaths Across America for the first time, honoring local veterans and showcasing the town’s new veterans exhibit.

Music, hot dogs and Santa: Newfield to host tree lighting celebration

Newfield Christmas Tree Lighting returns Dec. 6, offering music, Santa, food, and community fun for all ages.

Newfield Public Library plans to expand space after strong year of programs

Newfield Library expansion will add more space for community and educational programs, including outdoor activities and new kitchen facilities.

Ulysses unveils first community park draft designs following public survey

Ulysses community park plans advance as residents review two draft designs created from survey feedback and Cornell collaboration.

‘Weaponizing hunger’: County residents, nonprofits and officials brace for federal SNAP, Medicaid cuts

SNAP and Medicaid cuts may affect thousands in Tompkins County as demand for services rises.

New bakery and coffee shop brings community and homemade treats to Newfield

Morning Moon Coffee and Bakery opens in Newfield, offering homemade treats, coffee and a cozy community space run by Amy Heffron.

Street Beat: What’s your go-to fall beverage?

We asked five random people. Here's what they had to say.

Ulysses voters reelect Olson and new town board, county legislature leaders

Ulysses election results 2025 confirm Olson’s reelection and three new Democratic leaders joining the town board and county legislature.

Newfielders’ furry neighbors: Coyotes, bears and bobcats

Newfield wildlife sightings show more bears, coyotes, and bobcats in local forests and backyards, increasing residents’ awareness.

Street Beat: What does voting mean to you?

We asked five random people. Here's what they had to say.

Nutrition and community: Newfield CSD hosting second annual fall harvest dinner

Newfield fall harvest dinner highlights local, nutritious foods and student involvement in the farm-to-school program.

Ulysses comprehensive plan committee maps out town goals for next 20 years

Ulysses Comprehensive Plan 2025-2045 outlines town goals, housing, climate, and transportation priorities for the next 20 years.

Murder, spirits and a wild, hairy man: Remembering Newfield’s spooky history 

Discover Newfield's haunted past with ghost stories, a wild man, and historic murders, preserved by the Newfield Historical Society.

Ulysses supervisor candidates discuss budget priorities, recreational spaces

Ulysses supervisor election: Olson and Walker debate budget, recreation, and transparency ahead of the Nov. 4 town vote.

Ithaca teachers ‘cautiously optimistic’ as contract negotiations progress

Ithaca teachers contract negotiations advance as the ICSD proposes step-and-lane salary system with raises, health benefits, and expanded family leave.

Street Beat: What is your favorite fall memory?

We asked five random people. Here's what they had to say.

Town of Ulysses proposes $4.2 million budget for 2026 

Ulysses budget 2026 proposes $4.2M, funding town services, managing rising costs, and keeping reserves for future needs.

Newfield proposes $4.2 million budget with slight tax rate decrease  

Newfield budget 2026 plans $4.2 million in spending with a slight tax rate decrease, maintaining town services and supporting key departments like highways and fire.

Street Beat: What about fall are you most excited about?

We asked five random people. Here's what they had to say.

Trumansburg Central School District proposes $18.4 million capital project

Trumansburg Central School District proposes $18.4M project to improve infrastructure, safety, and accessibility across its schools.

Sapphire Farms, Newfield’s cannabis farm, seeks to upgrade manufacturing center   

Sapphire Farms cannabis operation in Newfield seeks to expand its facility to improve storage, processing, and efficiency.

Affordability, housing and living wage take center stage at county legislature candidate forum

Tompkins County legislature candidates debate affordability, housing, and living wage proposals ahead of Nov. 4 election.

Newfield board optimistic about spending ahead of preliminary budget release

Newfield town board anticipates 2026 preliminary budget without exceeding state tax cap, despite rising costs.

Ulysses Historical Society celebrates 50th anniversary

The Ulysses Historical Society celebrates 50 years with 50 artifacts, preserving Trumansburg’s heritage and community history.

Trumansburg installs two new EV charging stations

Trumansburg installs two new EV charging stations to support sustainability, provide fast chargers, and encourage electric vehicle adoption.

‘Heart of gold’: Newfield Fire Company board member dies after 65 years of service

Remembering Billy Payne, Newfield firefighter, who served his community for 65 years with dedication, kindness, and courage.

Street Beat: In the spirit of the Emmy Awards earlier this month, what TV show are you watching?

We asked five random people. Here's what they had to say.

Kitchen remodeling to pest control: how to help your home withstand the test of time

Discover expert tips on home remodeling and pest control to keep your house beautiful, safe, and lasting for generations.

Street Beat: If you could live anywhere else in the world, where would it be?

We asked five random people. Here's what they had to say.