After Cornell's Big Red football pounded Wagner College, 31-7, Oct. 1, hundreds of staff, faculty, retirees and family members escaped the cold, wet day by gathering at Barton Hall for a chicken barbecue and pasta dinner as part of this year's fall Employee Celebration day.

At Barton, the Tompkins County United Way's 90th anniversary was celebrated with a cake and an ensemble from the Cornell Marching Band playing "Happy Birthday." Educational activities for all ages were provided by about 10 organizations, from Cornell University Police to the Museum of the Earth while Crossroad Clown and McGruff provided entertainment, and the Department of Inclusion and Workforce Diversity offered hands-on learning activities through math and movement exercises.

New this year, students from the chemistry fraternity, Alpha Chi Sigma, engaged youngsters in simple chemistry experiments, while doctoral candidate Rakim Turnipseed and Chris Roh '12 shared their interests as part of the Naturalist Outreach course they are taking by displaying tarantulas and such live insects as vinegaroons (whip scorpions). Supply Management Services staffed a table to share information on the discounts they have negotiated on behalf of Cornell employees.

"Thanks to everyone who volunteered for the fall Employee Celebration," said Cheryl McGraw, human resources event manager, after the event. "From the planning committee, the crews and the people who brought displays to those of you who helped set up, serve or clean up on the day of the event, all of your efforts are very much appreciated."

The event was sponsored by the Division of Human Resources, Cornell Catering and the Department of Athletics and Physical Education.

In negotiating prices with vendors, Cornell Supply Management Services has also obtained various discounts for Cornell employees. These include:

• Verizon Wireless

• AT&T Mobility

• Dell computers

• Apple computers

• Microsoft operating system

• Symantec anti-virus software

• Hotel discounts

• Ithaca Airport parking

• Staples

• Hertz, National and Enterprise

Other discounts:

• Cornell Laundry/Mall Dry Cleaners -- 15 percent off with Cornell ID

• Computing Center -- up to 12 percent off retail

More information