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Convenient Walk-in Care Made for You
From minor burns and UTIs to strains and sprains, Guthrie Ithaca City Harbor offers walk-in care for minor illnesses and injuries, with no appointment needed.
Walk-in care is available from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. weekdays, and 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. weekends.
Guthrie Ithaca City Harbor Walk-in Care 720 Willow Avenue Ithaca, NY 14850
(VSC)
The Virtual Senior Center (VSC) is a FREE, easy-to-use website that brings a vibrant community into your home.
To join, participants need a computer or tablet with webcam/microphone, an internet connection, and a Lifelong Membership.
A limited number of FREE Lifelong memberships are available for VSC.
To set up a free VSC account, email Iburger@tclifelong.org, call Lifelong at 607-273-1511, or scan the QR code!
Guthrie Walk-in Care
Ithaca Housing Authority Reopens Northside Apartments after Multi-Year Renovation
By Matt Dougherty
The Northside Apartments are back and better than ever following a multi-year demolition and reconstruction project that began in 2022. The project cost $75 million, increased energy efficiency, and added 12 additional units, bringing the total number of units available to 82.
According to Lisa Nicholas, Director of Planning for the City of Ithaca, the Ithaca Housing Authority (IHA) partnered with the 3rd Development Group to redevelop the outdated complex, which was first constructed in the 1960s. “The housing that was there before was older. It was built in the 1960s and needed to be updated because it wasn’t efficient.”
According to Nicholas, the old apartments were larger and ranged from three to four bedrooms to accommodate the needs of large families at the time. However, as time progressed and family size decreased, Nicholas said it became common for just one or two people to occupy larger family units. As a result, Nicholas said “People wanted smaller units…so we updated the buildings to make them more functional
and right-size the apartments.”
Now the units range in size from one to two bedrooms, so despite providing 12 additional units the number of bedrooms at the complex has decreased from roughly 225 to 208.
Nicholas said, “It’s great to see this older housing renovated. The goal was to make each unit seem more independent, so each unit has its own door in and out on the ground level and has a front and back stoop.” Nicholas added, “Before, there was a mix of different kinds of units, and a couple of buildings had entrances on the second floor.”
Nicholas also mentioned that plans maintained open green space and the minimal available parking space. She added that all units are affordable and available to residents earning up to 60% of the area median income.
The project received significant funding from state and federal sources, including $10.6 million in permanent tax-exempt bonds, $29.7 million in Federal LowIncome Housing Tax Credits, and a $18.8 million subsidy from NYS Homes and
T ake n ote
X Ithaca Firehouse Subs Public Safety Foundation Awards
$31,185.08
Grant to Ithaca Fire Department
Ithaca, NY – The Ithaca Firehouse Subs Public Safety Foundation recently awarded a grant totaling $31,185.08 to the City of Ithaca Fire Department. This funding will support the department’s critical need for life-saving equipment, including 18 dry suits, 30 helmets, 30 personal flotation devices (PFDs), and accessories. The awarded grant will provide the department with specialized gear that is critical for
water-based rescue operations and hazardous environment responses. Dry suits will protect firefighters in cold or submerged conditions, while the helmets and PFDs are designed to offer maximum safety and durability in dangerous situations.
The Firehouse Subs Public Safety Foundation is committed to improving the safety and capabilities of first responders across the country
X Thanksgiving Holiday Closing and Curbside Recycling Schedule
The Tompkins County Department of Recycling and Materials Management office will be closed on Thursday, November 28th and Friday, November 29th for the Thanksgiving holiday.
WEB
Community Renewal. It also received significant local support, as the IHA contributed $9.2 million, the Tompkins County Community Housing Fund gave $300,000, and Ithaca Urban Renewal gave $91,000.
During the ribbon-cutting ceremony celebrating the reopening of Northside Apartments, which was attended by State Senator Lea Webb and Assemblymember
Continued on Page 12
through the funding of life-saving equipment, training, and other public safety needs. Since its inception, the foundation has granted millions of dollars to fire departments, police, and emergency medical service organizations.
The Ithaca Fire Department plays a critical role in protecting the lives of residents, and the support from Firehouse Subs is a key factor in ensuring that the department has the tools needed to keep its responders safe and effective.
EE lan CE rs : Barbara Adams, G. M Burns, Jane Dieckmann, Charley Githler, Ross Haarstad, Steve Lawrence, Marjorie Olds, Henry Stark, and Arthur Whitman
The Newfield Food Scraps Drop Spot will be closed on Thursday, November 28th. Weekend Drop Spots will be open regular hours.
The Recycling and Solid Waste Center is closed on Thursday, November 28th, and will reopen during business hours on Friday, November 29th.
There will be no curbside recycling collection on Thursday, November 28th.
Curbside recycling collection will be delayed by one day for the remainder of the holiday week. That means if your regularly scheduled collection day is Thursday, recycling will be picked up on Friday, and so on.
All rights reserved. Events are listed free of charge in TimesTable. All copy must be received by Friday at noon. The Ithaca Times is available free of charge from various locations around Ithaca. Additional copies may be purchased from the Ithaca Times offices for $1. SUBSCRIPTIONS: $89 one year. Include check or money order and mail to the Ithaca Times, PO Box 27, Ithaca, NY 14851. ADVERTISING: Deadlines are Monday 5 p.m. for display, Tuesday at noon for classified. Advertisers should check their ad on publication. The Ithaca Times will not be liable for failure to publish an ad, for typographical error, or errors in publication except to the extent of the cost of the space in which the actual error appeared in the first insertion. The publisher reserves the right to refuse advertising for any reason and to alter advertising copy or graphics deemed unacceptable for publication. The Ithaca Times is published weekly Wednesday mornings. Offices are located at 109 N. Cayuga
Ithaca, NY 14850 607-277-7000, FAX 607277-1012,
After a multi-year demolition and reconstruction project the Northside Apartments have officially reopened, offering 82 affordable units to residents in need. (Photo: Matt Dougherty)
IN UIRING
PHOTOGR
PHER Q A
By Mark Syvertson
QUESTION OF THE WEEK:
“WHAT
’ S YOUR FAVORITE INDOOR ACTIVITY FOR INCLEMENT WEATHER?”
Josh Riley Focused on Working Class Issues, Ignored Partisan Politics in Victory Against Republican Incumbent
By Matt Dougherty
It’s been a busy month for Josh Riley.
The recently elected representative for New York’s 19th Congressional District has been rushing in and out of orientation meetings in Washington, D.C., in preparation for being sworn into office on Jan. 3, 2025.
In between a flurry of meetings, Riley spoke to the Ithaca Times and answered questions about why he thought he ran a successful campaign in an election in which Democrats underperformed nationwide and how he says he can have an impact in a Republican-controlled government.
Riley’s comeback victory against Republican incumbent Marc Molinaro in a toss-up district was one of the few Democratic victories at the federal level in the 2024 elections. Riley said that while he didn’t want to comment directly on other races, his campaign was successful because he focused less on “what political pundits were saying and what was happening with either political party” and more on “rebuilding the middle class, taking on the big corporate special interests, cracking down on price gouging, ending bad trade deals, and bringing good manufacturing jobs back home.”
In an election in which Democrats saw a dramatic decrease in turnout among young and working-class voters, Riley said that his campaign did well with both of those groups.
“We did well with young voters because I showed up on our campuses and talked to them about their concerns,” Riley said.” He said that he heard a lot about Roe v Wade being overturned and that students wanted to elect a representative that would support the Women’s Health Protection Act, which Riley has committed to doing. Riley continued saying that both young and working-class voters were highly
NOTE:
The Ithaca Times contacted Riley to ask if he wanted to clarify his comments regarding mass deportation in light of the report from Axios. This article will be updated with a response from Riley if/when it is received.
concerned about increasing living costs, specifically high housing costs.
When it comes to addressing the issues that he ran on in a government where Republicans control both chambers of Congress, the Presidency, and the Supreme Court, Riley acknowledged that it would be an uphill battle but said that he would work with either party as long as the results “help folks in communities that have been sold out and overlooked by the political establishment.”
Riley told the Ithaca Times, “I think there’s a lot of room for common ground between a member like me and the incoming administration when it comes to revitalizing American manufacturing.” He added, “If there are things that the incoming administration is going to do that are going to help upstanding workers, then I’m going to support it, and if they’re doing things that are harmful to upstate New Yorkers, then nobody’s going to fight as hard as me against that.”
Riley pointed to policies the incoming Trump administration ran on, like ending the tax on tips and cutting taxes for senior citizens, as areas of agreement. “Those are things that I would absolutely support,” Riley said. However, he added, “If he’s going to give more tax cuts to billionaires and corporations that are shipping jobs overseas, I’m not going to stand for that.”
Trump’s tariff plan has been a significant point of contention, with support and opposition that crosses party lines.
Opponents of the plan, such as Democratic Presidential nominee Kamala Harris and Libertarian-leaning Republican Senator Rand Paul, have said it would negatively impact the economy, create fewer jobs, and increase prices for most consumer goods. However, supporters of the plan say it will incentivize domestic manufacturing, reduce outsourcing that has been normalized by decades of bad free trade deals, and create more American jobs.
Trump’s plan involves imposing a 1020% tariff on all imports and a 60-100%
tariff on goods imported from China and Mexico. While Trump insists that tariffs are paid by foreign countries, they are actually paid by American companies importing the goods, and those companies usually pass their increased costs onto consumers in the form of higher prices. The Tax Foundation has estimated that Trump’s plan would “hike taxes by another $524 billion annually and shrink GDP by at least 0.8 percent.”
The plan has been criticized by economists like Cornell Professor of Trade Policy Eswar Prasad, who told ABC News, “It would shut the U.S. out of the global trading system.” While Prasad said the plan could increase jobs, he added, “History shows restricting trade can end up having negative consequences that far outweigh positive ones in terms of employment growth in domestic industries.”
Despite the opposition, the Biden administration has kept in place tariffs imposed on $360 billion imports from China implemented by the first Trump administration. In May 2024 Biden added tariffs on an additional $18 billion of imports from China, including semiconductors and electric vehicles. The Tax Foundation estimates that these tariffs have resulted in an average tax increase of $625 per household.
In response to whether or not he would support Trump’s tariff plan, Riley said, “The devil is in the details.” He added that his hometown of Elmira was “gutted” by having its manufacturing jobs outsourced by “terrible free trade deals
“My go-to is baking.” – Rachel
“I like doing or teaching traditional Liberian loom weaving.” – Sarah
“Watching Minions movies.”
Eliza
“Watching foreign films and eating popcorn.”
Joanne
“Baking cookies with my daughter.”
Alyse
The New Representative-Elect for NY-19 Signals Support for Targeted Tariffs to Revitalize American Manufacturing and Calls Trump’s Mass Deportation Plan “Not Feasible.” (Photo: File)
LETTERS TO THE EDITOR
Ithaca Needs More Bike Lanes
“Ithaca is grossly lacking in a sufficient number of adequately sited and protected bike lanes. Of necessity, bikers are currently forced to ride in narrow streets presenting significant dangers to themselves from both moving and parked cars. Furthermore, city streets, many of which are, and have always been, in abominable condition require a biker to weave about in active traffic to avoid uneven or missing pavement, pot holes, “washboard” surfaces from improper patching and repair, sunken utility access covers and grating. According to the NY Dept of Transportation in 2023 more than two thirds of cyclists who died in traffic were on roads that did not have bike lanes.
Ithaca bike lanes that do exist are unprotected and often end abruptly, leaving a rider stranded in active traffic (example: the intersection of E. Green St. and Aurora St.).
Instead of providing adequate bike lanes Ithaca offers “shared streets” (laughingly labeled as “bike boulevards”) allowing both bikes and cars to share the traffic lane. They are impressively identified by large symbols and letters painted on the road surface. Any experienced bike rider knows that cycling in the traffic lane of any road is both dangerous and stupid. Paint is not protection.
In the interest of limiting climate change, our progressive community actively encourages people to use alternate forms of transportation, the bicycle being one of them. Yet, in spite of all the words, little has been done to facilitate that change so far as bicycle travel is concerned. That is not only dangerous and dumb, it is hypocritical.” — David
Stotz
RE: Northside Apartments Reopening
“Councilwoman Fabrizio writes in her recent letter to this paper that now is the time to speak up about large property tax increases that are coming. The re-opening of Northside Apartments is a prime contributor to what she warns of. While lauded by many local and state politicians, this project is a demonstration of the inability of the government to build economically and operate efficiently with appropriate regard to private property taxpayers.
According to realtor.com, the median house sold in Ithaca in October 2024 was 1917 square feet (SF) and cost $393,725 or about $207/SF. Based on 2024 tax rates, the total property tax burden would be around $12,639 for a median home.
As reported, Northside Apartments cost taxpayers $75 Million to build 82 apartment units with a total of 202 bedrooms (17 fewer bedrooms than the old apartments had). That equates to $914,634 per unit, or $360,576 per bedroom. It is unclear what the cost per square foot was, but if one assumes an average apartment size of 1500 SF, that is $623/SF — 3 times the median house cost per square foot. So the cost of one bedroom in Northside is almost equal to the cost of an entire single family median home sold in October. Our government in action.
According to the county assessor, because it is owned by the Housing Authority, Northside’s total tax contribution to local government is $38,611 under a section 577 payment in lieu of taxes (PILOT). That works out to a total tax contribution (city, county and school) of $470 per apartment unit or about 3.7% of what the private property city residents are taxed if they own a median home.
If Northside were taxed based on its cost to build, it would be contributing $2,400,000 per year in local taxes based on the 2024 tax rates, instead of $38,611. So it costs 2.3 times more per unit to build than the median single family house sells for in the City, and the property owner pays only 3.7% of what its tax burden would otherwise be.
That burden is shifted to the private property owner and we are told to just suck up a 13% increase in city taxes. There are many other projects like this in Ithaca, and every new “affordable housing” project is neither affordable to build, nor affordable for the rest of the taxpayers because we subsidize it directly with our real property taxes each year.
By way of further comparison, it is reported that The Ithacan on Green Street, recently completed, cost about $60 million to build 200 apartment units. That equates to $300,000 per unit. The property tax generated is about $1,450,000 based on the 2024 assessment, or $7,250 per unit. It costs less and pays more; what a novel idea.
As councilwoman Fabrizio states, it is time for tax paying residents to wake up. Tax increases like the budget just adopted by city council are making living in Ithaca unsustainable for many people. Part of the reason why are boon-
doggle projects like Northside that shift the tax burden, and cost way too much to build. These projects remove full value land from the tax rolls, in a city where 60% of the property is already tax exempt and another 20% is tax reduced (like Northside). Of course, when it is other people’s money, construction budgets really don’t matter to those in charge, particularly when they won’t be paying real property taxes either.” — Nathan M. Lyman
“There just seems to be something wrong when providing “affordable” housing costs $75 million to renovate 70 units and add 12. Presumably the value of the land is not included in this. The median sale price of a house in Ithaca is $375,000, so the $75 million would have bought 200 median-price houses.” —
William Turner
RE: Urge Governor to sign CO2 Fracking Ban!
“In 2023, a company proposed drilling hundreds of wells to inject carbon dioxide (CO2) into shale rock deep underground to extract “natural” gas, then burn it in power plants it intended to build across three Southern Tier counties. This project would create the risk of CO2 pipeline ruptures releasing ground-hugging, rapidly spreading, dense clouds of deadly CO2. A healthy person can die in a minute if overcome by CO2 of 17% or more in concentration, according to the U.S. EPA. The February 2020 CO2 pipeline rupture disaster in Satartia, Mississippi, as first detailed by the late investigative journalist Dan Zegart, shows the grave risks: https://www. huffpost.com/entry/gassing-satartiamississippi-co2-pipeline_n_60ddea9fe4 b0ddef8b0ddc8f. Fracking with CO2 still poses the same risks of toxic ground and air pollution as conventional water-based fracking that are compiled by Concerned Health Professionals of New York in its science Compendium at: https://concernedhealthny.org/compendium/. The New York legislature passed legislation (A8866/S8357) to ban CO2 fracking last March in a bipartisan, overwhelming majority vote. Please help keep our state moving on a safe energy path by contacting Governor Hochul and asking her to sign this CO2 fracking ban into law.” — Carmi Orenstein, Program Director, Concerned Health Professionals of New York & Valdi Weiderpass, Chair, Sierra Club Susquehanna Group
The Talk at
UPS DOWNS&
Ups
The City of Ithaca is proud to announce that it has earned a top score of 100 on the Human Rights Campaign’s 2024 Municipal Equality Index (MEI). The MEI is a national benchmarking tool that evaluates how inclusive municipal laws, policies, and services are of LGBTQ+ individuals who live and work in the city.
Downs
An Ithaca man was arrested on Sunday after police accused him of assaulting a woman and threatening her with an axe.
HEARD SEEN&
Heard
From December until April, the Ithaca Farmers Market will only be open for Saturday markets. In the last month of the year, Saturday markets are to be held at Steamboat Landing, on Cayuga Lake from 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. The last day of the outdoor market corresponds with this year’s Rutabaga Curl, to take place from Noon to 2 p.m. on Saturday, December 21. In January, Saturday markets will move indoors into the Triphammer Marketplace on Saturdays from January though March. The last Sunday market will take place on November 24, before Thanksgiving. There will be no more Sunday markets until May 2025.
Seen
If you would like to actively contribute to peaceful con ict resolution in your community join the transformative mediation team at Community Dispute Resolution Center (CDRC). CDRC mediators are professionally trained community volunteers who support those experiencing con ict, ranging from custody and visitation; landlord/tenant; small claims court; community; and neighbor disputes. Basic Mediation and Family Mediation training is free. CDRC serves Chemung, Schuyler, and Tompkins Counties. For more information contact Jeremy Cranmer, CDRC Program Director, at cranmer@cdrc.org or 607-273-9347.
IF YOU CARE TO RESPOND to something in this column, or suggest your own praise or blame, write editor@ithacatimes. com, with a subject head “U&D.”
QUESTION OF THE WEEK
Have you started Christmas/ Holiday shopping yet?
54 . 5 % Yes.
45.5% No. N EXT W EEK ’S Q UESTION : Should municipalities like the City of Ithaca & Tompkins County use more of their fund balance to lower taxes?
Visit ithaca.com to submit your response.
Tompkins County Passes 2025 Budget with Last-Minute Levy Reduction
By Matt Dougherty
The Tompkins County Legislature
voted 9-5 to pass the 2025 county budget during their meeting on Tuesday, Nov. 19. e budget totals roughly $253.2 million and includes a tax levy increase of 2.72%.
According to County Administrator Lisa Holmes, the budget initially included a levy increase of 4.45% due to an error that made it appear that the tax cap was higher than it was. Holmes said that when the administrator’s o ce corrected the error, they realized the actual tax cap was 2.72% and noti ed the legislature just in time to approve the amendment before passing the budget.
To meet the new tax cap, the legislature approved several amendments to withdraw more money from the contingency fund and fund balance, which are essentially backup savings accounts that the county can use for unforeseen circumstances. One amendment added $94,371 intended to fund a GIS analyst position to the contingency fund, which Legislator Rich John said totaled roughly $1.25 million. Other amendments added roughly $150,000 to the fund balance, which lowered the levy to 2.72%.
fund balance to use that way,” Dawson said. “I know some of you think we’ve got a bottomless fund balance, but we don’t, and we are looking forward to god knows what over the next four years.”
“I don’t think taking $150,000 or even $500,000 from the general fund is going to put us in a world of hurt.”
— Greg Mezey, Legislator
While the exact amount in the fund balance is uncertain, Legislator Greg Mezey estimated that it could range between $40 and $60 million. e county previously approved taking $154,990 from the fund balance, so the additional $150,000 puts the total amount allocated from the fund balance to $304,990.
As a result, Mezey said that withdrawing a few hundred thousand from the fund wouldn’t drastically impact the county.
“I don’t think taking $150,000 or even $500,000 from the general fund is going to put us in a world of hurt,” Mezey said. However, not everyone agreed.
While Legislator Deborah Dawson ultimately supported the amendment, she said, “I hate using fund balance to lower the levy, but I will reluctantly vote for this simply to get us below the tax cap.” Dawson said that the City of Ithaca has gotten itself into trouble in the past by using too much of its fund balance and that it is now running low.
“ ey used fund balance to buy down their levy, and now they don’t have any
While the City of Ithaca has increased the amount drawn from its fund balance over the last few years, it was recently estimated at $24.5 million.
To lower taxes even further, Legislator Lee Shurtle proposed reducing the levy to 2% by withdrawing an additional $384,000 from the fund balance, bringing the total amount withdrawn to $689,795. e amendment would have lowered the average annual property tax bill for the owner of a home valued at $300,000 from $138 to $80.
Supporters of Shurtle 's amendment included Randy Brown, Mike Sigler, Greg Mezey, Dan Klein, Veronica Pillar, and Travis Brooks. ey agreed that taxpayers deserved some relief amid rising city and school taxes. ey believed that since the county’s fund balance is doing well and increasing yearly, it can a ord to use some extra funds to lower taxes.
“I know some of you think we’ve got a bottomless fund balance, but we don’t, and we are looking forward to god knows what over the next four years.”
— Deborah Dawson, Legislator
However, other legislators were concerned about the impact that withdrawing more money from the fund balance would have on the county’s bond rating, which is
currently in good standing and will help nance upcoming projects according to Legislator Shauna Black. “ e less we have in our fund balance, the harder it is going to be for us to get a good bond rate and keep our Moody’s rating,” Black said. Black continued, saying that while the fund balance was between $40 and $60 million, the county is currently facing an estimated $80 million in expenses related to several ongoing and upcoming projects, such as the year-round shelter, center of government, and jail renovations. Additionally, Legislator Anne Koreman pointed to the fact that the county is already operating on a “shoestring budget” and that the legislature already “didn’t fund a lot of di erent things that were asked of us.” She noted the scaling back of the Green Facilities plan and said that “We’ve pretty much gutted the improvements and maintenance of our buildings.” e Ithaca Times has previously reported on changes in funding for organizations like the Community Justice Center, and the Ithaca Voice recently published an article concerning the impact of county budget cuts to the Tompkins County Public Library. Ultimately, the amendment to lower the tax levy to 2% failed in a 7-7 vote, with Rich John, Anne Koreman, Mike Lane, Shawna Black, Amanda Champion, Susan Curry, and Deborah Dawson in opposition.
Tompkins County Legislator Greg Mezey supported taking additional money out of the county fund balance to lower the tax levy increase to 2%. (Photo: File)
Tompkins County Legislator Deborah Dawson voted to approve taking money out of the fund balance to lower the tax levy to 2.72%, but opposed taking additional funds out to lower to 2%, citing concerns about spending too much of the fund balance. (Photo: File)
From Food to Fashion: Are Mushrooms the Future of Fabric?
By Quincy Hansen, Cornell Student
Mushrooms are the latest craze in health and wellness — but this new trend extends far beyond a standard button mushroom from the grocery store or the Cordyceps from The Last of Us. These adaptogenic fungi, often sold in the form of matcha or coffee, are making their way to our wardrobes, cars and living rooms.
If you thought Lion’s mane and Turkey Tail in our tea wasn’t obscure enough, think again—clothes, shoes and purses are now produced with mycelium “leather”. Since the early 2000s, this industry is becoming a potential solution to the environmental threats posed by the high-polluting, billion-dollar leather industry.
A typical pair of running shoes generates nearly 14 kg of carbon dioxide emissions, according to MIT researcher Jennifer Chu, “equivalent to keeping a 100-watt lightbulb on for one week”. The leather industry is an overlooked contributor to climate change: the animals from which leather is derived produce methane, a potent greenhouse gas, and they require an inconceivable amount of water. According to a 2024 study, mushrooms are the solution: “Their growth is effec-
RE: Verizon Cell Tower Issues
“To Town of Ithaca Planning Board and Zoning Board members, We are writing to ask you to reconsider your approval of the Wiedmeier Court application and to file a formal complaint concerning the unethical and potentially illegal Ithaca Town Planning Board meeting on November 19, 2024. At that meeting:
1. Verizon untruthfully claimed that denying their new proposed cell tower would be ‘effective prohibition’ when in fact, they had not shown any proof, as our codes require, that their large tower is the least intrusive means to fill the gap in service coverage. In fact, when pressed by Town Attorney Susan Brock about
tively carbon neutral since it enables the capture and storage of carbon that would otherwise be emitted to or remain in the atmosphere.”
As a pole vaulter at Cornell University, I receive free clothing and shoes for competition and practice every year. Admittedly, receiving Cornell apparel contributed to my excitement when I chose to move from San Diego to Ithaca for four years. However, at that time, I was completely unaware of the extent to which mass produced clothes impact our planet.
The track and cross country team, roughly 150 athletes, receive two pairs of shoes, trainers and spikes. The shoes alone have a short life—they’ve usually run their course in a year. As an Environment and Sustainability major, I was astonished when I discovered these shoes are made of toxic chemicals that don’t break down easily. A Business Insider report describes that not only do shoes contain synthetic polymers which are designed to resist microbial breakdown, “typical shoes contain about 40 different parts made from several different materials, including, plastic, rubber, metal, and ethylene-vinyl acetate” (Kenneth). This makes it incredibly difficult to recycle as the materials would need to be separated and the glue holding it together interferes with proper recycling.
the effective prohibition, the Verizon rep stated “of all the 12 different options that we looked at, this was the least intrusive.” And elsewhere Verizon stated that their large tower was the least intrusive means to meet their “project goals”. Neither of these is the least intrusive means to remedy the gap in service (i.e. the small area with the 11% of dropped calls). What was glaringly apparent was that no one from Verizon could explicitly say that the tower is the least intrusive means to fill the gap in service. Instead, what we heard was carefully evasive language. When the subject of small cells came up, consultant William Johnson attested that they are a viable solution. Verizon “respectfully disagreed”, referring to their Exhibit GG, the subject of which was their conclusory “evidence” that small cells were not viable to achieve “the necessary coverage goals sought by VZW” (again, not for remedying the gap). Tellingly, neither the RF engineer nor
It was when I learned about mycelium leather, one of a few sustainable leather alternatives being produced today, that I decided to further investigate this world. I’m now a minor in Fungal Biology. A few companies around the world are starting to use mycelium to create their products: Stella McCartney designs purses; Lululemon has a yoga bag; and Adidas is introducing a new line of footwear in 2025.
Typically, oyster mushrooms or Phellinus ellipsoideus are used to create this special material. The leather is made of the underground branching structure that creates a network of fine white filaments called mycelium. Those who cultivate this mushroom use sawdust to feed it, which helps it to fuse, “growing into a solid, foam-like material. Mushroom leather can then be made by flattening this foam into a fabric” (Graham).
Mycelium textiles are still in their infancy, but companies such as Mycoworks, Ecovative, and Bolt Threads are working around the clock to provide them not only for apparel, but for furniture and automotive industries. Cadillac is introducing concept cars with mycoleather interiors and luxury furniture and luxury furniture maker Ligne Rosette is now using myco-leather for their sofas.
As Americans, we are massive consumers, so we also need to be more
the Verizon rep ever explicitly said that small cells could not remedy the gap in service. More obfuscation. Thus, it was highly misleading for Verizon to claim that denying their tower would constitute effective prohibition, given that they never showed proof that small cells couldn’t remedy the gap.
2. Given what we heard at the meeting, we are concerned that Board members’ decision to approve was based on this false claim, especially since a majority of the Board said they were going to deny the tower before Verizon’s statement about effective prohibition. It seemed like the Board members felt that it was a done deal and that they couldn’t deny the application.
3. Allowing Verizon to give further input, while denying the public an opportunity to respond is, according to our lawyer, a violation of due process. Had we been given the time, we would have questioned Verizon on their misleading
conscious about what, and how often, we choose to buy these products. Using resources available to us, like the website “Good On You,” which analyzes and rates brands according to their ethical and transparent production methods, will be valuable in helping us make better decisions. We can also take action by recycling and thrifting our clothes and shoes to extend their life cycle and reduce waste. Beyond these individual efforts, we should collectively advocate for legislative action, such as supporting the Fashion Sustainability and Social Accountability Act in New York, which would require large fashion companies to disclose their environmental and social impacts, and you can do so here. Moreover, it’s critical to support continued federal funding for groundbreaking innovations in sustainability, such as mycelium-based materials, by reaching out to your representatives. You can call or email Senator Chuck Schumer of New York at (202) 224-6542 or through his contact page to urge him to continue funding for the National Science Foundation (NSF), which plays a vital role in driving these advancements. These collective actions, paired with individual efforts, can create meaningful progress in reducing the textile industry's environmental impact.
statements, asking them directly if it is absolutely impossible to fill this service gap with small cells, and, if so, why they didn’t offer proof.
4. Lastly, the meeting process was shocking to witness. A straw poll indicated a majority of the Board was in favor of denying the tower, then Board inexplicably changed from working off the ‘denial’ resolution to working off the ‘approval’ resolution. Board member Cindy Kaufman even questioned this saying, “I don’t understand why we’re reviewing the approval [resolution].” She was ignored. Unfortunately, it seemed that Chairperson Fred Wilcox was biased in favor of approving the resolution, when at the beginning of the discussion he said, “I’m concerned right now that members of this board are trying to find reasons to say no when the answer is YES.” ?!? This and his subsequent
Give Local: Five Non-Profits to Support this Holiday Season
By Kinsey Burr
Tompkins County and Ithaca are full of opportunities to give back and support each other this Thanksgiving. There seems to be endless nonprofits and charities to get involved in, whether you want to donate your time, money or something entirely different. For our annual Give Local edition we have chosen to highlight five local organizations who are helping the community in their own unique way. This year, we are featuring the United Way 2-1-1 Alice Program, No Más Lágrimas, Ithaca Community Recovery, Babies First and Saoirse Pastures.
UNITED WAY 2-1-1 ALICE PROGRAM
Tompkins County United Way 2-1-1 ALICE Program provides direct support to qualified households for their rent, utilities, car repairs and insurance, childcare and medical expenses not covered by insurance.
ALICE is an acronym that stands for Asset Limited, Income Constrained Employed. An ALICE household is a household where people are working yet not living at a sustainable income threshold. The ALICE program was established by the Tompkins County United Way in 2020 following the COVID-19 pandemic to address growing needs in the community.
Gail Belokur, United Way Chief Operating Officer, has been with the organization since 2018. She said the program operates to support those in immediate need of assistance who have nowhere else to turn.
“It really is the last dollar for individuals who are facing eviction or even utility shut off, or have no way to pay for their car repair,” Belokur said.
Belokur said that the ALICE programs threshold includes more moderate-income households that are ineligible for other programs, such as HEAP and SNAP, which provide home energy and supplemental nutrition assistance.
Qualified households for the ALICE Program may receive a grant of up to $500 to address a variety of expenses, including car insurance and repairs, child care expenses, essential appliances, health insurance, phone and utility bills, rent and other expenses approved by United Way.
Belokur said last year the United Way ALICE program grew by 33% in terms of need, and is on pace for a 61% increase this year.
“The increased need is due to reductions in supplemental programs that were instituted during covid, combined with wage stagnation, and of course the increased cost of everyday living,” Belokur said.
Belokur said because of the rise in need being faced, without immediate additional funding the program will have to be paused.
“We’re estimating we have enough funds to last until about the new year,” Belokur said.
Anyone who is a resident or works in Tompkins County may be eligible for the United Way 2-1-1 Alice Program. To find out if you are eligible for the assistance, call 2-1-1 in Tompkins County to speak with an operator who will help determine if you are eligible for the program.
To contribute or donate to the ALICE Program go to uwc.org/give and note that the funds are to go to the United Way 2-1-1 ALICE Program.
NO MÁS LÁGRIMAS
No Más Lágrimas or No More Tears is a non-profit that supports marginalized communities in addressing a range of needs. They are currently focused on fighting food insecurity in Tompkins County.
No Más Lágrimas hosts a free weekly food rescue and distribution at the Henry Saint John building in downtown Ithaca where they provide fresh produce, meat and dairy products to up to 145 people a week. These resources are available to anyone in need.
All food, personal hygiene items and other household goods available in their pantry are collected from food distribution networks, including the Food Bank of the Southern Tier, individual donations, and local farms who contribute.
Ana Ortiz, founder of No Más Lágrimas (No More Tears) says the group organizes fresh produce and other goods for their weekly food rescue and distribution program that serves hundreds of cummunity members each week.” (Photo: Provided)
Ana Ortiz, founder and executive director of No Más Lágrimas, has been serving the Tompkins County community and beyond for over a decade. She said she started the organization to address growing needs in the community that were not being met, and bring the community together as one.
“I wanted to create No Más Lágrimas, a team effort that engaged with the community,” Ortiz said. “And to teach community members to communicate with other community members.”
Ortiz’s robust network of charitable and non-profit organizations as well as businesses in Tompkins County consistently provide donations as they become available, including hot meals, which are occasionally available at the No Más Lágrimas location.
Ortiz said additional funding comes from grants applied for by herself or other members of the team, as well as individual donations.
The team announces time-sensitive opportunities like hot meals on their social media accounts, where they often communicate with the community. All scheduled food events are posted on the No Más Lágrimas facebook page.
Gail Belokur, Chief Operating Officer of Tompkins County United Way, says that the ALICE Program provides essential financial support to households on the brink of eviction or utility shutoffs. (Photo: UnitedWay/Provided)
In addition to food distribution, No Más Lágrimas helps families navigate applying for public benefits, finding housing, and communication for non-english speakers. They also offer support for domestic violence victims, those recently incarcerated and other underserved individuals.
“One thing that I do with all my volunteers and everyone who comes into the program is teach them how to manage in the community,” Ortiz said. “I want to see them be a community leader, because I cannot be here forever.”
To support No Más Lágrimas go to https://nmlagrimas.wordpress.com/.
ITHACA COMMUNITY RECOVERY
Ithaca Community Recovery is a notfor-profit organization that provides a safe alcohol and drug free environment for recovery-oriented groups. They are located in downtown Ithaca at 518 West Seneca Street, where multiple meetings are held daily to offer support to anyone at any stage of recovery.
Meetings are held at ICR for a variety of 12 step programs and recovery groups, including alcoholics anonymous, narcotics anonymous, food addiction recovery as well as a range of other recovery and meditation groups. Resources for family and friends of those who suffer from addiction, including Al-anon/Ala-teen and Adult Children of Alcoholics meetings held in person and on zoom.
Scott Sherwood, president of Ithaca Community Recovery, said the organization is always incorporating new ways to make their resources more accessible. All meetings are available to join via zoom, which allows participants to remain completely anonymous.
The building also includes playrooms for children during meetings, inviting parents without childcare to attend meetings.
“We’re one of the places in town where if you want to talk about recovery there’s no forms to fill out, no insurance cards,” Sherwood said. “You can literally walk in, sit down, and have a cup of coffee if you want.”
Ithaca Community Recovery recently launched a new partnership with CARS, Cayuga Addiction Recovery Services and TST BOCES, The Tompkins-Seneca-Tioga Board of Cooperative Educational Services.
The new program will be held in person at the ICR location and on zoom, and is “centered around offering a teen peer support group, because teens have very limited options for anonymous help,” Sherwood said.
Sherwood said 20% of their revenue comes from groups that pay a fee to rent rooms in the ICR building. He said the remaining 80% of their funding comes from fundraising, the majority of the donations being individual contributions.
Sherwood said a portion of their budget goes to events that are completely free and open to the entire recovery community, including friends, family and strangers who want to support ICR’s cause.
On Jan. 1 the ICR is hosting their annual Ithaca Chill Challenge at the Ithaca Yacht Club, where participants voted for by the community will polar plunge into Cayuga Lake. All money raised will go towards updating and maintaining the building and offering a safe space for those who need it.
“ICR is one of the best kept secret places and when they need it, people know about it,” Sherwood said. “One of my goals is to get it so people know about us before they need it.”
To make a donation to Ithaca Community Recovery visit https://ithacacommunityrecovery.org/
BABIES FIRST
Babies First is an all volunteer organization that offers gently used baby equipment to anyone in need, no questions asked. They are a part of the First Unitarian Society of Ithaca.
The organization accepts any baby equipment that is in good condition, new and used. Items needed include strollers, high chairs, potty chairs, baby gates, breast pumps, diaper bags, diaper covers, baby monitors, baby bottles and anything a baby or toddler might need.
Babies First volunteer, Sue Rakow, works directly with those in need and coordinates meetings for equipment drop-off and pick-up.
“All you have to do is express a need, and you can come in and pick out what you need from what we have in stock,” Rakow said.
Babies First operates appointment-only for donations and pick-ups. Appointments can be made by individuals or through referral by one of more than 15 local agencies who work with Babies First.
The organization also works with the Ithaca ReUse Center and the Ithaca Salvation Army, who do not accept baby equipment and instead refer those in need to Babies First, where all equipment is completely cost-free.
“We also provide new car seats that we buy with funds that we get through donations,” Rakow said.
Resources provided by Babies First are available to anyone who is in need of baby equipment. Rakow said that they do not require any forms, ask any questions or look at any finances.
“It’s a time in people’s lives when they’re vulnerable, and they have a new life to take care of,” Rakow said. “With that comes a lot of responsibility and if we can make their burden lighter in some way, it feels terrific.”
To make a donation of baby equipment or contribute financially to Babies First, call 607-269-5385.
SAOIRSE PASTURES
Saoirse Pastures rescues and offers lifetime sanctuary to unwanted, abandoned and abused farm animals.
“We are a farm animal rescue and sanctuary,” Shannon Hamilton, Saoirse Pastures co-founder and executive director, said. “And we try to do as much public education and outreach as we can as far as animal welfare issues and our food system are concerned.”
The sanctuary is entirely volunteer run, and collaborates with a variety of local programs and organizations, including the Einhorn Center and the Cornell Animal Advocacy Club, who connect volunteers with the organization.
Community education and outreach are a top priority for Saoirse Pastures according to Hamilton. They work with local programs, including Lehman Alternative Community School and Greater Ithaca Activities Center, to bring kids and teens to the farm to learn about and interact with the farmlife.
“We look at it as all encompassing,” Hamilton said. “We’re an animal welfare organization, but it goes above and beyond that to sustainability and caring for our planet, food justice, it’s all circular.”
The sanctuary is currently home to 53 animals of varied species including horses, donkeys, cows, sheep, goats and pigs. Hamilton said they partner with other rescues and sanctuaries to make the biggest impact possible.
Saoirse Pastures provides food, water, shelter, medical care and nurturing to all their animals. They also foster and quarantine animals for other sanctuaries and rescues when needed.
Funding comes entirely through individual community donations as well as a mix of local and national grants. Fundraisers are also hosted throughout the year at Saoirse Pastures and Community Events, including the Ithaca Festival and the Winter Artist Market.
Hamilton said that there are not many grants specifically for farm animal welfare.
“You can find a lot of animal welfare grants, but a lot of it goes to domestic animal shelters,” Hamilton said. “We’re constantly on the lookout for new grants to apply for and foundations who are interested in the wellbeing of farm animals.”
Saoirse Pastures offers multiple ways for community members to get involved. These opportunities include working on the pasture with the animals, coordinating community events and fundraisers and temporarily fostering animals.
To make a one time donation to Saoirse Pastures, or sign up to become a monthly donor, visit https://www.saoirsepastures. com/.
Volunteers at Saoirse Pastures care for rescued animals, like cows, pigs and goats, while educating visitors about sustainabiity and animal welfare.” (Photo: Saoirse Pastures/Provided)
Community members in need of support in their recovery efforts can attend meetings at Ithaca Community Recovery’s West Seneca Street location, which offers a safe, alcohol- and drug-free environment supporting indiviudals at every stage of recovery.” (Photo: Provided)
Old and New
Wrestling History Continues, But New Chapters Begin
By Steve Lawrence
As I was walking into Barton Hall to watch the Cornell wrestlers host five other teams in the Big Red Invitational tournament, a 60-ish guy struck up a conversation. “This place is really old,” he observed. adding “I wrestled here for Buffalo State, 40 years ago.” I brought him up to speed, saying, “Well, 40 years ago, Barton Hall — which was completed in 1915 — had already been hosting wrestling meets for seven decades.”
Given there were seven wrestling matches underway, the cavernous old building was abuzz with activity, with wrestlers and coaches and family members and fans and support staff all milling about, often going from mat to mat to take in as much as possible. Many former wrestlers were in attendance — including Gene Nighman, a Cornell grappler who was a three-time Eastern champ, an All
American (1981), and a Cornell Athletic Hall of Fame inductee. Gene — who has also done his share of coaching — was mat-side, leaning in, looking like he was ready to pull on a singlet.
The five other teams competing were Binghamton, Brown, Buffalo, Sacred Heart, and Clarion, and it was amazing how many of the parents in attendance knew one another. Willie Worthing — whose sons, John and Brady, wrestle for Clarion — how long he had known some of the other parents, agreed, “There are several Section IV wrestlers here, and we have seen them at tournaments since youth wrestling.” He added, “It will be a big adjustment when this all ends (both Worthing boys are seniors).”
Also there was Chris Harrington, who has been connected to area wrestling for many years. He ran the Finger Lakes
Ferrara (another Section IV wrestler, a two-time state champion from Chenango Forks) won the title at 133 pounds. (Photo: Cornell Athletics)
Wrestling Club from 2010–2019, and is now the head coach at Tioga, a small and mighty Section IV powerhouse high school program that currently has six alums competing at the Division 1 level. (Three more compete for non- D-1 collegiate programs.)
Forks) won the title at 133 pounds, Josh Saunders took the top spot at 141, Ethan Fernandez won at 149, Even Conover at 165, Simon Ruiz at 174 and Aiden Hanning won it all at 197.
On Sunday, the Big Red will travel to Pennsylvania for the Mat Town Open hosted by Lock Haven. ●
Harrington described the advantages of coaching at a school that is a mere 45 minute car ride from an elite program like Cornell. “Our kids are able to get here regularly (for workouts, clinics and such), sometime four or five days a week.” Worthing added, “We were up here on Wednesday nights, and again on weekends for years.” (In this tournament, John Worthing sat out because of a mat-related skin infection and Brady went out in the third round with a knee injury, after pinning his first opponent and tech-falling his second.)
For more wrestling news, stay tuned in a future column. Ithaca College has made the move to feature a women’s wrestling team, starting next year. The team will be coached by Ryan Ciotoli, a former Bomber star and longtime coach.
As usual, Cornell wrestlers put on a good show, winning six weight classes.Tyler Ferrara (another Section IV wrestler, a two-time state champion from Chenango
Also, Island Health and Fitness has re-purposed a room to be used as a base for what Andy Getzin calls “a robust youth wrestling program.” Many members of the local wrestling community have stepped up to make that happen, and I hope to write more about it soon.
Tyler
Jessica Lynn’s Holiday Spectacular
By Staff Report
The Christmas spirit will take center stage at the State eatre of Ithaca on Sunday, Dec. 8, as Jessica Lynn’s A Very Merry Christmas Tour makes its way to the city. Now in its eighth year, the tour is a celebration of holiday music, community connection, and philanthropy, featuring local performers at each stop. e show, part of a 14-date East Coast run, o ers audiences a festive experience blending classic Christmas tunes with live performances from local musicians and dancers. For Jessica Lynn, this annual tradition is not only about spreading cheer but also about giving back. e tour is held in partnership with Toys for Tots, with proceeds from ticket sales and a newly released live EP supporting the nonpro t organization.
What sets Lynn’s show apart is its dedication to showcasing local talent. In Ithaca, a diverse array of performers will share the stage with Lynn, including:
e Next Jennaration, e Crane Academy of Irish Dance, Filipetti’s Dance Academy, Leslie School of Dance, Armstrong School of Dance, e Jumpers, Stage Door Performing Arts Center, Destiny La Vibe, Harmony Falls Chorus, Cortland High School Concert Choir and Jr. Select Choir under the direction of Tyler Meade, and Heather Bennett’s Dancin’ to the Rhythm. ese groups represent a cross-section of Ithaca’s vibrant performing arts community, and their inclusion is a re ection of Lynn’s mission to provide opportunities for young performers. Some of the students who began performing with her as children are now pre-
paring for high school graduation, a testament to the long-lasting impact of her collaborative approach.
In addition to bringing local talent into the spotlight, Lynn uses her tour as a platform for philanthropy. is year, she has released a four-song live EP titled A Very Merry Classic Christmas (Live) to further support Toys for Tots. e EP, which will be available starting Nov. 22, features tracks recorded during past shows. Proceeds will go directly to the nonprofit, which distributes toys to children in need during the holiday season.
“Toys for Tots is such an important organization, especially during the holidays,” Lynn said in a recent statement. “It’s a privilege to partner with them and to use music as a way to bring joy and make a di erence in children’s lives.”
Tickets for the Dec. 8 performance at the State eatre are available now and can be purchased online. Fans can also pre-save Jessica Lynn’s upcoming live EP, A Very Merry Classic Christmas (Live), to enjoy her holiday hits while supporting a good cause.
For more information about the tour, including behind-the-scenes content and show updates, visit Jessica Lynn’s o cial website. With its combination of festive music, local talent, and community support, A Very Merry Christmas Tour promises to be a highlight of the holiday season in Ithaca.
Don’t miss the chance to join Jessica Lynn and her team in celebrating the true spirit of the season through music, dance, and giving back. Secure your tickets today and make your holidays a little brighter.
Holiday Spectacular
What: Jessica Lynn’s A Very Merry Christmas Tour
When: Sunday, Dec. 8, 2024, 7 p.m.
Where: State Theatre of Ithaca, 107 W. State Street, Ithaca, NY
Tickets: Available online at https://jessicalynnmusic.org/ shows
Arts & Entertainment
Jessica Lynn’s “A Very Merry Christmas Tour” lights up the State Theatre on Dec. 8, featuring holiday classics, local performers, and support for Toys for Tots, bringing the true spirit of the season to Ithaca. (Photo: Provided)
The historic State Theatre of Ithaca will host Jessica Lynn’s “A Very Merry Christmas Tour” on Dec. 8, transforming its stage into a festive celebration of holiday music, local talent, and community giving. (Photo: File)
Antarctica Day: Science, Fossils, and Exploration for All Ages
By Matt Dougherty
The Museum of the Earth is gearing up to bring the wonders of the southernmost continent to Ithaca with its Antarctica Day celebration this Sunday.
This special event commemorates the signing of the 1959 Antarctic Treaty, which established Antarctica as a demilitarized and cooperative zone for scientific research. Families, science enthusiasts, and curious minds are invited to enjoy a day of exploration, rare exhibits, and engaging presentations that highlight the region’s scientific and environmental importance.
The event promises to immerse visitors in the icy landscapes and ancient history of Antarctica, offering something for everyone—from interactive activities for children to in-depth lectures by prominent scientists.
One of the highlights of the celebration is the chance to view selected specimens from the Museum’s Antarctica fossil collection, one of the largest in the world. The collec-
Antarctica Day
When: Sunday, December 1, 2024 from 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. Where: Museum of the Earth, 1259 Trumansburg Road, Ithaca, NY
Admission: Pay-What-You-Wish; free for PRI members (All activities, including the lectures, film screening, and scavenger hunt, are included with Museum admission.)
ITHACA HOUSING
AUTHORITY
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tion, housed by the Paleontological Research Institution (PRI), features over 35,000 specimens gathered by William Zinsmeister, a Purdue University professor, and his students over a span of 40 years. Acquired by PRI in 2009, the fossils originate from the islands at the tip of the Antarctic Peninsula, particularly Seymour Island.
Ranging in age from the **late Cretaceous Period** (approximately 70 million years ago) to the **Eocene Epoch** (around 40 million years ago), the fossils include mollusks such as clams, snails, and ammonites. They also feature rare specimens of wood, crustaceans, and bones from fish, penguins, plesiosaurs, and marine mammals.
Attendees will have the opportunity to learn from two experts in the field of Antarctic science through presentations scheduled throughout the day. These talks will transport audiences from Antarctica’s ancient, dinosaur-filled landscapes to its current role as a bellwether for climate change.
• At 11 a.m., Dr. Matthew Lamanna, Curator of Vertebrate Paleontology at the Carnegie Museum of Natural History, will present “Antarctica in the Time of the Dinosaurs: The Antarctic Peninsula Paleontology Project.” Dr. Lamanna’s lecture will delve into life on the continent millions of years ago, when it was home to a diverse ecosystem of dinosaurs, marine reptiles, and plants. The talk will also explore recent discoveries from the Antarctic
Anna Kelles, Ithaca Housing Authority Executive Director Brenda Westfall said, “Redeveloping these properties was about more than just renovating buildings; it’s about revitalizing communities, preserving affordability, and creating opportunities for families to thrive.” She added, “Each improvement we make is an investment in the future, ensuring that everyone has access to safe, dignified, and sustainable housing.”
Tompkins County Legislature Chair Dan Klein highlighted the benefit the completion of this project has on the community’s affordable housing stock, saying, “This is a much-needed infusion of highquality, affordable housing in our county.” Klein added, “A lack of affordable housing is at the root of so many issues, and the County is proud to be a small piece of the financing puzzle that brought this project to fruition.”
Families living at the complex who were displaced by the redevelopment
Peninsula Paleontology Project, an international collaboration uncovering fossils from this remote and challenging region.
• At 1 p.m., Dr. Peter Washam, a glaciologist and oceanographer at Cornell University, will present “Ice on the Move: What Observing the Underside of Antarctica’s Ice Shelves Can Tell Us About Future Sea Level Rise.” Dr. Washam’s research focuses on the dynamic interactions between ice and ocean. His presentation will examine how changes beneath Antarctica’s massive ice shelves impact global sea levels, providing critical insights into the effects of climate change.
Both lectures aim to captivate audiences with cutting-edge research and highlight Antarctica’s significance in understanding Earth’s past, present, and future.
Antarctica Day is designed to engage visitors of all ages, making it a perfect outing for families. Alongside the scientific talks and fossil exhibits, the Museum has planned a variety of interactive activities to inspire curiosity and creativity.
Children and families can participate in
project have been given first preference to return. Assemblymember Kelles underscored the importance of this, saying, “The commitment to ensure that existing residents were not displaced and get a right of first refusal for the newly renovated and constructed homes is a commitment to economic and racial justice.”
Kelles added that families living at the complex were able to keep their children in the same school throughout the redevelopment process. “Redeveopments can be disruptive to the community,
Antarctic-themed crafts and demonstrations, which will offer hands-on opportunities to learn about the region’s unique wildlife, climate, and history. Visitors can also watch a short film showcasing Dr. Matthew Lamanna’s Antarctic fieldwork, providing an up-close look at what it takes to conduct research in one of the most extreme environments on Earth.
For those who love a challenge, the Museum will host an Antarctica-themed scavenger hunt, encouraging participants to explore its exhibits in search of clues that reveal fascinating facts about the frozen continent.
Thanks to the event’s sponsor, Wegmans, admission to the Antarctica Day celebration will be “Pay-What-You-Wish,” making it accessible to all members of the community. Visitors can choose an admission price that best fits their household budget, ensuring that financial barriers do not limit access to this educational and entertaining event. Admission is free for members of the Paleontological Research Institution.
so…thank you for the commitment to keep children in their schools of choice throughout the duration of the construction,” Kelles said.
State Senator Webb said, “With the rehabilitation of units and the construction of new, affordable rental homes across three sites, this initiative ensures that residents will have safe, sustainable, and high-quality housing.” She added, “I will continue to prioritize quality and affordable housing which supports individuals and families across our region.”
Visitors explore rare Antarctic fossils and learn about the frozen continent’s ancient history and climate significance during Antarctica Day at the Museum of the Earth in Ithaca. (Photo: Provided)
Veterans Day Ceremony Honors Service and Sacrifice at Calvary Cemetery
By Matt Dougherty
On a crisp autumn morning, the Queen of Peace Mausoleum at Calvary Cemetery became a solemn gathering place as veterans, families, and community members came together for a heartfelt Veterans Day ceremony. Organized by the Knights of Columbus Council 277, the event highlighted the enduring service and sacrifice of veterans across generations.
The ceremony, presided over by retired Navy Captain Dan Weed, began at 10 a.m. Flags fluttered gently in the breeze as patriotic hymns echoed through the mausoleum, setting the tone for a reflective and unifying event.
Captain Weed, a retired Navy officer with 30 years of service, opened the ceremony with remarks that combined historical context with personal reflection,
tracing the origins of Veterans Day to the end of World War I, when it was initially known as Armistice Day.
“On the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month in 1918, the guns fell silent,” Captain Weed said. “What started as a day to honor the heroes of World War I has grown to encompass veterans of every conflict since—the Korean War, Vietnam War, the Gulf War, and those serving today in places like Iraq and Afghanistan.”
Weed emphasized how Veterans Day has evolved over time to recognize not only those who served but also the families and communities who supported them. His words underscored the enduring legacy of service that unites all veterans, regardless of the era or conflict in which they served.
One of the most poignant moments of the ceremony came as Captain Weed explained the symbolism of laying wreaths
Sentimental Journey
“A Real Pain” is a Buddy Pic Rediscovering a Family’s Holocaust History
By David Burak
Emotional and, at times, painfully humorous, both Jesse Eisenberg and Kieren Culkin (as cousins David and Benji Kaplan) evoke positive audience responses to both these forms of stimuli.
It’s also significant that they’re able to achieve a significant degree of gravitas and depth, as they make a visit to
“A Real Pain”
Rated R
Written and directed by Jesse Eisenberg. Starring Jesse Eisenberg and Kieren Culkin. Currently playing at Cinemapolis.
120 East Green St., Ithaca
on the graves of fallen service members. He detailed how this custom, dating back to the Civil War, represents both mourning and respect.
“Wreaths are a circle, a symbol of eternity,” he said. “When we lay them on the gravesites of our departed comrades, we reaffirm our commitment to remember their sacrifices and keep their memories alive.”
As part of the ceremony, members of Knights of Columbus Council 277 placed wreaths on gravesites near the mausoleum, each representing veterans from different wars. This act of remembrance served as a visual and emotional tribute to the sacrifices of those who served.
Another significant moment came with the tolling of a ship’s bell, a naval tradition used to honor those who served at sea. Captain Weed explained its importance to the crowd, noting that the bell has histori-
cally marked time, signaled the changing of the watch, and sounded alarms.
“Today, we use it to honor those who stood the watch during their time in service—whether in the Navy, the Army, the Marines, the Air Force, or the Coast
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Poland, financed by their Holocaust survivor (and recently deceased) grandmother, Dory, Eisenberg has based his screenplay on a journey he made to see his grandmother’s home. He’s done an exceptional job recreating a “Jewish Heritage Tour” to Warsaw and Lublin, and effectively brings us on the bus and train.
I can’t say with certainty what the casting formula might have been, but whatever went into the decision-making it was quite successful in creating a composite of characters which wove an empathyinducing spell for the viewers, Particularly noteworthy was Kurt Egyiawan, (Eloge)
Kieran Culkin and Jesse Eisenberg portray mis-matched cousins on a journey of self discovery as they trace their common grandmother in A Real Pain.
a survivor of the Rwandan genocide who has embraced the Jewish faith.
There’s also the lovable Marcia, effectively portrayed by Jennifer Grey, and Will Sharpe, a British intellectual who plays James, who serves as the group’s guide.
As far as the group’s visit to the Majdanek concentration camp, adjacent to Lublin, we are told that the site is intact and sterile because the Nazi officials left in
such haste, to avoid being captured by the advancing Russians.
When the brothers eventually reach the goal of their grandmother’s house they make an error of judgement in deciding to use a custom they’d just become aware of in an earlier visit to a centuries-old cemetery.
Continued on Page 15
Film
Veterans and community members gathered at the Queen of Peace Mausoleum in Calvary Cemetary for a Veterans Day ceremony. (Photo: Provided)
Continued
Sangam: Traditional Indian Cusine in Collegetown
By Henry Stark
The Pandemic wreaked havoc on many restaurants around the world. In Ithaca, some closed, some reduced hours even to the extent of closing for lunch or dinner, some reduced the size of their menu offerings, many downsized their staff, (not always voluntarily), and the rest are managing their businesses the best they can. In the case of Sangam, a wonderful Indian restaurant in Collegetown, their
TID BITS:
* “Sangam” in Indian is traditionally a holy place where the Ganges and Jamuna rivers merge however young people have also adopted the word to mean two hearts and two separate individuals merging into one. It can even mean the merging of two such disparate cultures as Hindu and Muslim.
** A Tandoor is a charcoal, Indian clay oven that burns slow and steady providing juicy, flavorful meat. It is also used to bake traditional Indian bread such as Nan, Onion Kulcha, Tandoor Roti, and Keema Nan. I’ve seen the bread baked flush against the side of the oven. Take out is a significant portion of Sangam’s business. Collegetown street parking is not easy. Located at 424 Eddy St., Ithaca, NY 14850 that both parties have supported over the last 40 years.”
Riley added, “If there is a carefully tailored package of tariffs that would revitalize American manufacturing without hurting consumers and farmers, then that is something I would be able to support.” He continued, “The bottom line is that we should be making stuff in America, and we should be making stuff in upstate New York. We should not depend on China and Mexico for manufactured goods, things like batteries and solar panels and semiconductors; we should make that stuff in America.”
Another issue that Riley said he could work on with the incoming administration is securing the border. “We need thoughtful, bipartisan, comprehensive, serious immigration reform in this country, and
popular lunch buffet was eliminated.
They offer linen tablecloths, recessed lighting and interesting, unobtrusive Indian music which features vocals, and although I don’t understand a word of the songs, I find it pleasant and relaxing.
It's a relatively large restaurant for Collegetown with room for about 80 diners including three tables on a raised platform in the window facing Eddy Street.
There’s an extensive 13-page spiral menu that is available at lunch and dinner. It’s divided into major categories such as Soups and Appetizers, full pages of Tandoori** (7), Beef (9), Lamb (16), Chicken (13), Goat (8), Sea Food (13), and Rice Specialties (8) and two full pages of Vegetable Specialties (28). There’s also a full page dedicated to a dozen and a half Tandoori Breads.
Most dishes can be ordered Mild, Medium, or Hot. I find “mild” just about at the limit of my tolerance for spicy food.
From the Traditional Tandoori Breads section I recently ordered Kashmiri Nan ($5.95). The thin flour pouch was filled with raisins, nuts, and shredded coconut. It was delivered in a large round basket and could easily have been enough for two people. I used it as an appetizer and it was delicious.
the first thing we’ve got to do is secure the border,” Riley said.
Riley highlighted his support for the bipartisan immigration bill written by Republican Senator James Langford and endorsed by many Democrats, including President Joe Biden, as an example of his commitment to border security. Riley said that this bill would have added thousands of patrol agents and improved tracking technology to the border but that it was undermined by President-elect Trump to avoid giving Democrats the appearance of a legislative victory before the election.
When asked specifically if he would oppose any Trump administration plans for a mass deportation of undocumented immigrants, Riley said, “I think the Trump administration itself has already acknowledged that that concept is not feasible.”
However, Axios has reported that Trump has confirmed plans to issue a national
Sangam, a Collegetown staple since 1980, continues to serve authentic Indian cuisine with generous portions and a warm, inviting atmosphere, adapting to post-pandemic challenges with a focus on takeout and an extensive menu. (Photo: Mark Syvertson)
From the Lamb Delicacies section I’ve enjoyed Lamb Mango ($18.99). It came in a round metal tureen which, when I first saw it, appeared to contain a small portion. However appearances can be deceiving and I was mistaken as I ended up taking some home. The Mango part was understated but still gave the sauce an overall sweet taste without being cloying. The multiple chunks of lamb were so tender I easily divided them with a fork. I combined the lamb and thick brown sauce with the large serving dish of rice which was included.
Once I selected one of the Biryani dishes, Shrimp Biryani ($17.99). I was impressed by the large, attractively presented oval dish with a generous number of medium sized, beautifully cooked shrimp that were mixed in with nuts, herbs, raisins, and red pepper slices. I also thought I detected
emergency and use the military to carry out mass deportations.
Riley said he would support deporting undocumented immigrants who have criminal records but that the policy should be more nuanced for those seeking refugee status and who are contributing to the economy and paying their taxes.
“What I would support and what I believe the Trump administration supports is deporting people who have criminal records,” Riley said. He added, “On the other hand, the single mom with two little kids who are fleeing violence from the cartels is probably coming to America to seek refuge and the American dream.”
Riley added that there are many undocumented immigrants working in dairy farms across upstate New York who are “contributing to the economy, working hard, and paying their taxes….so we can’t treat something as complicated as our immigra-
(they’re not listed on the menu) some broccoli florets, and a few almond slices.
There are six enjoyable milk-based desserts priced at $4.50.
The beverage menu is limited to just three well known beers: Heineken, Sapporo, and Molson. There are also two different Indian beer brands, each of which comes in a large bottle which holds enough for three glasses. There’s no wine menu however, when I asked, I was told they had a “house” Chablis, an unidentified Pinot Noir, a Chardonnay from Australia and a Pinot Grigio from Italy. These are served by carafe or bottle. ($14.95-$18.95).
Sangam, which has been in Ithaca since 1980, serves generous portions of authentic quality Indian food in a pleasant atmosphere at reasonable prices.
tion system with these broad brush slogans.”
According to Cornell University, more than half of farm workers in upstate New York are undocumented.
While Democrats like Riley are hoping that Trump’s deportation plans will only target undocumented people with criminal records, other Democrats like Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez have said that the distinction between those with criminal records and those seeking refugee status is irrelevant since Trump’s plan for mass deportations is expected to categorize all undocumented people as criminals regardless of why they are here.
According to Ocasio-Cortez, “The Trump campaign ran on this narrative that they were talking about criminals being deported, but a lot of people don’t realize that the administration believes that anyone who is here undocumented has committed a criminal act, so they are talking about everybody.”
JOSH RILEY FOCUSED
continued from page 7
demeanor/actions made it seem that he was manipulating the process to meet the end he wanted. This behavior is unethical and a disgrace to our town.
Therefore, we ask the Planning Board to reconsider this action as soon as possible. We know that a path of recourse is to file an Article 78, but for everyone’s sake we are hoping that we might resolve this “in house” to simply ensure that there is a fair process and that the Board has the correct facts and is not unduly influenced in their decision.
Thank you for your careful attention to this matter.
PS: Zoning Board members: we are asking you to deny the variance.” — Marie & Andrew Molnar, Ithacans for Responsible Technology
RE: Dano’s Closing
“Wonderful memories of Thanksgiving dinners at Dano’s (pre-pandemic) and making it a destination for family and friends on their visits to Ithaca. Beautiful location, stunning building, excellent food. One of the truly great things about living in Ithaca.” — Lynn Thommen
SENTIMENTAL JOURNEY
continued from page 13
They find a couple small stones and place them on the front steps of grandma’s former porch. However, a neighbor takes umbrage, insisting that the stones be removed.
After a brief standoff, the man gets his English-speaking son to explain that he’s concerned that the woman who currently lives there might trip and fall. So much for the realistic use of traditions from a different context.
Despite some behavior glitches, “A Real Pain,” is a substantive film which is worth checking out. It’s an experience-based piece, based on the efforts of one of the most effective writer-actor-directors and casts in the biz.
Also, given what’s going on in our current world, it’s even more appropriate than usual to expand on G. Santyana’s aphorism: those who don’t study history are doomed to repeat it. Going to a film like “A Real Pain.” is one way we can enhance our perceptions about how to reduce the frequency of acts of destructive behavior.
VETERANS DAY CEREMONY
continued from page 13
Guard,” he said. The bell’s resonant tones echoed through the mausoleum, providing a solemn reminder of the sacrifices made by the nation’s service members.
Throughout the ceremony, attendees reflected on their own connections to military service. Veterans from all branches of the armed forces were recognized as their respective service songs played, receiving applause from the audience.
Captain Weed concluded the event with
a call to action, urging attendees to carry the spirit of Veterans Day beyond November 11.
“Honoring veterans is not just about ceremonies,” he said. “It’s about how we treat them in our daily lives—ensuring they have the resources they need, listening to their stories, and teaching the next generation about the values they defended.”
The ceremony ended with a moment of silence, followed by a brief questionand-answer session for attendees to better understand the significance of Veterans Day. Many lingered afterward to share stories, express gratitude, and connect with veterans in attendance.
The Veterans Day ceremony at the Queen of Peace Mausoleum served as a powerful reminder of the sacrifices made by those who served in uniform and the importance of honoring their contributions to the nation’s freedom. Through the leadership of Captain Dan Weed and the sponsorship of the Knights of Columbus Council 277, the event paid tribute to the past while inspiring future generations to uphold the values of service and sacrifice.
As Captain Weed aptly stated, “Our nation is built on the service and sacrifice of those who came before us. Let us never forget them.”
A Hear tfelt Thank You to O ur Sponsors, Potters, Food, Wine Donors and Volunteers
Loaves & Fishes ’ Empty Bowls Fundraiser would be impossible without the incredible generosity and dedic ation of the sponsors, potters, food, wine donors, volunteers, and community suppor ters. They make this event extraordinar y ever y year; their hard work and kindness are truly the hear t and soul of Empty Bowls. They come together to help relieve hunger in Tompkins County through their suppor t of Loaves & Fishes. Thanks to their collec ted effor t, just over $58,000 was raised this year! These funds make a major difference to Loaves & Fishes ’ c apacity to ser ve meals to those in need. Currently we are ser ving 5,600 meals a month. Please join us in expressing our deepest gratitude to ever yone who has played a role in making this event so successful and for their unwavering commitment to our mission!
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Bars/Bands/Clubs
11/27 Wednesday
Thanksgiving Eve with The Ampersand Project | 6 p.m. | Treleaven Winery, 658 Lake Rd
Scuba Jerry | 8 p.m. | Deep Dive Ithaca, 415 Old Taughannock Blvd
Casual Splash |8:00pm | The Downstairs, 121 W. M.L.K. Jr. St.
11/29 Friday
Horn Rims | 8:00pm| The Downstairs, 121 W M.L.K. Jr. St.
11/30 Saturday
Barrel Room Concert Series featuring The Shenanigan Brothers | 5 p.m. | Treleaven Winery, 658 Lake Rd
Jennie Lowe Stearns | 6 p.m. | South Hill Cider, 550 Sandbank Road
Venissa Santí w/ Michael Stark & Olive Mitra |8:00pm | The Downstairs, 121 W. M.L.K. Jr. St.
12/1 Sunday
Jazz Guitar Brunch with Dennis Winge | 10:30 a.m. | Antlers Restaurant, 1159 Dryden Rd. | Free Jazz Jam Session | 6 p.m. | The Downstairs, 121 W M.L.K. Jr. St. | $5.00
12/4 Wednesday
Everything Yes | 8:30 p.m. | Deep Dive Ithaca, 415 Old Taughannock Blvd
Concerts/Recitals
11/29 Friday
Grand Opening of the new Night Eagle Café- Featuring Vance Gilbert | 8 p.m. | Lansing Performing Arts Center, 1004 Auburn Rd.
11/30 Saturday
The Salt City Waltz | 7 p.m. | Center for the Arts of Homer, 72 S Main St | The highly anticipated return of Central New Yorks favorite local show - The regions nest musicians pay tribute to THE BAND in the eighth edition of the Salt City Waltz.|
12/1 Sunday
Jazz Stars | 6:30 p.m. | Savage Club’s Lansing Performance Hall, 1004 Lansing Road | Free
12/4 Wednesday
Midday Music for Organ: The Cornell Organists | 12:30 p.m. | Sage Chapel, 147 Ho Plaza | Free
Stage
Mr. Magoo’s Christmas Carol | 3 p.m., 11/30 Saturday | Auburn Public Theater, 8 Exchange St. | This musical adaptation of the classic tale by Charles Dickens stars Magoo as the cold-hearted old miser, Ebenezer Scrooge.
Sesame Street Live! Say Hello | 6 p.m., 12/2 Monday | Clemens Center, 207 Clemens Center Parkway | Clemens Center presents O Christmas Tea: A British Comedy | 7:30 p.m., 12/3 Tuesday | State Theatre of Ithaca, 107 West State St | Fans of Monty Python, Mr. Bean, and Dr. Seuss… Grab your teacups! The outrageously funny and brilliantly inventive “O Christmas Tea: A British Comedy” comes to the State Theatre of Ithaca on December 3rd. “Complete and utter fun... for all ages!” says CBC, leap to get tickets: www. ochristmastea.c | $40.00 - $61.00
Goodnight Moon & The Runaway Bunny | 10 a.m., 12/4 Wednesday | Clemens Center, 207 Clemens Center Parkway | A Clemens Center Mary Tripp Marks School-Time Series production presented by Shaw Entertainment and Mermaid Theatre of Nova Scotia
Art
Seeing Ithaca: through the eyes of artists | 12 p.m., 11/28 Thursday | State of the Art Gallery, 120 West State Street | Member artists at SOAG organized Seeing Ithaca through the Eyes of Artists to promote the area and invite nonmember artists to participate. | Free
Why is Reality? | 12 p.m., 11/28 Thursday | State of the Art Gallery, 120 West State Street | Diana Ozolins, Margy Nelson and MarryAnn Bowman are showing new works at SOAG created through their own individual perception, imagination and humor. | Free
Robert Sardell’s “States of Being” | 12 p.m., 11/30 Saturday | The Gallery
at South Hill, 950 Danby Rd. | The Gallery at South Hill exhibition or Robert Sardell paintings titled “States of Being”. Bob was born in New York City in1949. He took his rst art classes as an undergraduate college student, going on to receive an MFA degree from the University of Iowa in 1975 and has been painting since. | Free
Film
Cinemapolis
120 E. Green St., Ithaca Week starting November 29th. Contact Cinemapolis for showtimes. Wicked | Elphaba, a misunderstood young woman because of her green skin, and Glinda, a popular girl, become friends at Shiz University in the Land of Oz. After an encounter with the Wonderful Wizard of Oz, their friendship reaches a crossroads.| PG 160 mins
Gladiator II | After his home is conquered by the tyrannical emperors who now lead Rome, Lucius is forced to enter the Colosseum and must look to his past to nd strength to return the glory of Rome to its people.| R 148 mins
A Real Pain | Mismatched cousins reunite for a tour through Poland to honor their beloved grandmother. The adventure takes a turn when the odd-couple’s old tensions resurface against the backdrop of their family history.| R 90 mins
Conclave | When Cardinal Lawrence is tasked with leading one of the world’s most secretive and ancient events, selecting a new Pope, he nds himself at the center of a conspiracy that could shake the very foundation of the Catholic Church.| PG 120 mins
Anora | Anora, a young sex worker from Brooklyn, meets and impulsively marries the son of an oligarch. Once the news reaches Russia, her fairytale is threatened as his parents set out for New York to get the marriage annulled.| R 139 mins
Heretic | Two young religious women are drawn into a game of cat-andmouse in the house of a strange man.| R 111 mins
Cornell Cinema
All lms are shown at 104 Willard Straight Hall, Cornell Campus.
Amerikatsi | 12/2, 7:00 pm |In 1948, decades after eeing Armenia to the US as a child, Charlie returns in the hopes of nding a connection to his roots, but what he nds instead is a country crushed under Soviet rule.
Dìdi |12/3, 7:00 pm | In 2008, during the last month of summer before high school begins, an impressionable 13-year-old Taiwanese American boy learns what his family can’t teach him: how to skate, how to irt, and how to love your mom.
Samson and Delilah | 12/4, 7:00pm| Samson and Delilah is the nal lm in the fall lm series “Costumes by Edith Head”, presented in collaboration with the Cornell Fashion + Textile Collection. This Biblical epic showcases costume design at a grand scale — in addition to seductive metallic gowns worn by star Hedy Lamar, Edith Head’s costume team dressed hundreds of extras that populate the battle and court scenes.
Sports
Cornell Women’s Basketball vs Mercyhurst University | 1 p.m.,
11/27 Wednesday | Newman Arena at Bartels Hall | Turkey Trot 5K | 7:30 a.m., 11/28
Thursday | Cortland YMCA, 22 Tompkins ST | Our nal race of the season and traditional Thanksgiving morning Turkey Trot!
Elmira Aviators vs. Rochester Jr. Americans | 7:30 p.m., 11/29 Friday | LECOM Events Center, 155 N. Main Street | | $15.00
Elmira Aviators vs. Rochester Jr. Americans | 7 p.m., 11/30 Saturday | LECOM Events Center, 155 N. Main Street | | $15.00
Books
“100 Things to Do in Ithaca” Book Signing | 2 p.m., 11/29 Friday | Buffalo Street Books, 215 North Cayuga Street | About the Book: Ithaca is Gorges! This is partly due to the more than 100 waterfalls within 10 square miles of Ithaca. | $18.00
Kids
Science Together: Flubber | 10:30 a.m., 11/27 Wednesday | Sciencenter, 601 1st St | Use a variety of tools to explore and make observations about the fun properties of Flubber! Science Together activities are designed for ages 0-4.
Animal Feeding | 4 p.m., 11/27 Wednesday | Sciencenter, 601 1st St | Join an Animal Keeper to observe snakes, lizards, frogs, and sh snacking on their preferred prey.
Fossil ID Day | 10 a.m., 11/30 Saturday | Museum of the Earth, 1259 Trumansburg Road (Route 96) | Did you nd a rock in your backyard? Do you think it might be a fossil? Museum of the Earth is here to help!
Family Storytime | 11 a.m., 11/30 Saturday | Tompkins County Public Library, 101 East Green Street | Children of all ages and their caregivers are invited to celebrate reading and build their early literacy skills at Family
Storytime. We meet each Saturday for stories, songs and hands-on fun.
Antarctica Day at Museum of the Earth | 10 a.m., 12/1 Sunday | Museum of the Earth, 1259 Trumansburg Road (Route 96) | Discover the secrets of the South Pole—because penguins don’t hang with Santa!Experience the wonders of Antarctica at the Museum of the Earth’s Antarctica Day event on December 1! | Free
Kids Craftapalooza | 1:30 p.m., 12/1
Sunday | First Congregational Church of Ithaca, 309 Highland Road | Families with children ages 5-12 are encouraged to join us for an afternoon of crafting including beading, watercolor painting and more- Plush toys from our Stu y Wellness Center program will be available for adoption. | Free Chemsations: Incredible
Indicators | 2 p.m., 12/1 Sunday | Sciencenter, 601 1st St | Investigate color-changing liquids, explore the importance of acids and bases in our daily lives, and make your very own chemistry watercolor artwork to take home!
Family Playgroup | 9:30 a.m., 12/2 Monday | CCE-Tompkins Education Center, 615 Willow Avenue | Free 7 weeks series, October 28 - December 16 (no session on Nov 11)
SIT! STAY! READ! | 3 p.m., 12/2 Monday | Tompkins County Public Library, 101 East Green Street | Children are invited to practice their reading skills by sharing a story with a truly non-judgmental listener -- a dog!
Reading sessions will be held Mondays from 3-4 p.m. Children who attend 6 sessions will earn a FREE book of their choice! | Free
Science Together: Magnet Fishing | 10:30 a.m., 12/3 Tuesday | Sciencenter, 601 1st St | Sort and count the sh you catch! Science Together activities are designed for ages 0-4.
Notices
Pearls of Wisdom Senior Support Group | 11 a.m., 11/27 Wednesday | 171 E. State Street | Pearls of Wisdom Senior Support Group | Free Community Police Board Meeting | 4:30 p.m., 11/27 Wednesday | Second Floor Conference Room, City Hall, 108 E. Green Street |
Trivia! | 7 p.m., 11/27 Wednesday |
Liquid State Brewery, 620 West Green Street. | Trivia Night with Bob Proehl at Liquid State! | Free Shop Small Business Weekend | 9 a.m., 11/29 Friday | Downtown Ithaca, 171 E State Street | Shop Small Business Weekend in Downtown Ithaca
Ithaca Farmers Market-Saturday Market | 10 a.m., 11/30 Saturday | Steamboat Landing, 545 3rd Street | Open from 10 AM - 2 PM in November, visitors will nd 80+ vendors at our Saturday Market! No matter the weather, our covered Pavilion will keep you cool and dry while you shop!
Crafted & Curated: Small Business
Saturday at Ria’s Wines | 11 a.m., 11/30 Saturday | Ria’s Wines, 9782 State Route 414 | Join us for Crafted & Curated: Small Business Saturday at
Ria’s Wines, a special event celebrating local makers, artisans, and small businesses! | Free
Relaxation Night: Qigong | 4
p.m., 11/30 Saturday | The Whimsy Mercantile, 2075 East Shore Drive | Join Jaime Hazard (Whimsy owner, Tai Chi Easy Practice Leader & IIQTC Integral Qigong Teacher) for an hour of Qigong. All levels and physical abilities welcome.
Ithaca Chocolate Debut: A Holiday Pop-Up with Press Bay Cafe | 8 a.m., 12/1 Sunday | Press Bay Alley, 118 W Green St | Ithaca Chocolate Holiday Pop-Up with Press Bay Cafe** | Free
Sewcial Stitching Sundays at SewGreen! | 3 p.m., 12/1 Sunday | SewGreen, Press Bay Court 112 W Green Street, #5 | Join our little group as we knit, crochet, weave, handstitch, mend, and drink complimen-
tary tea! If you have questions about your project, chances are someone here will know! Everyone is welcome! Every Sunday from 3 pm to 5 pm. Crafts are provided for children for $5 per child | Free
Food Addicts in Recovery Anonymous | 4 p.m., 12/1 Sunday, 518 W. Seneca | Are you having trouble controlling the way you eat? Food
Addicts in Recovery Anonymous (FA) is a free Twelve Step recovery program for anyone su ering from food obsession, overeating, under-eating or bulimia. No dues. No fees. Everyone is welcome. Sundays 4pm. Contact 607351-9504 foodaddicts.org | Free
Ithaca Sunday Squares | 12/1 Sunday, 29 Auburn Rd | Ithaca Sunday Squares Lansing Community Center, 29 Auburn Road (Route 34), Lansing, NY 7-9 PM almost* every Sunday. We are currently planning to dance...
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Medicare walk-in clinic | 1 p.m., 12/2 Monday | Lifelong, 119 W. Court St. | Ask questions about Medicare and Medicare Advantage plans, Medigap, and coordination of bene ts during Medicare’s Annual Election period. Explore ways to save money on premiums and medications.
The Despair and Discovery Circle |
6:30 p.m., 12/2 Monday | The Foundation of Light, 391 Turkey Hill Rd | An opportunity to share your post-election despair!There is much to feel grief and anger and all the hard feelings about right now, as always…
And now you can also join via zoom! | $10.00 - $20.00
Women’s Bereavement Group |
12 p.m., 12/3 Tuesday | Lifelong, 119 W. Court St. | Women’s Bereavement Group, held on 1st and 3rd Tuesday of every month, from 12 p.m. – 1 p.m. in the Lifelong Lounge.
Cable Access Oversight Committee Meeting | 5 p.m., 12/3 Tuesday | Aurora Room, Town Hall, 215 North Tioga Street |
Sta Training: Marketing & Outreach Strategies to Engage Your Community | 12 p.m., 12/4 Wednesday | Tompkins County Public Library, 101 East Green Street | Alzheimer’s Support Group | 5:30 p.m., 12/4 Wednesday | Lifelong, 119 W. Court St. | First Wednesday of the Month 5:30-7:00 PM Lifelong membership not required.
Common Council Meeting | 6 p.m., 12/4 Wednesday | Council Chambers, 3rd Floor City Hall | Public Works | 12/4 Wednesday | The Downstairs, 121 W M.L.K. Jr. St. | Public Works is free event in the style of Nerd Nite but designed just for Ithaca!
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