Jan. 15, 2025

Ithaca Common Council to Reaffirm Sanctuary City Status, Anticipating Trump Crackdowns

By Matt Dougherty

Ithaca, N.Y. — The Ithaca Common Council will vote to reaffirm the city’s status as a sanctuary for immigrants, reproductive rights, and gender-affirming healthcare in response to anticipated federal crackdowns under the incoming Trump administration.

The announcement came during the council’s first meeting of the new year, where residents voiced strong support for the sanctuary policies.

Mayor Robert Cantelmo addressed the topic directly, assuring attendees that the council is committed to upholding Ithaca’s progressive policies. “There will be a resolution being put before council at our January 22 meeting with the express purpose of reaffirming those existing protections,” Cantelmo said.

These ordinances, first enacted during Trump’s first term and expanded in subsequent years, limit the involvement of city officials and resources in enforcing federal policies targeting immigrants, abortion providers, and gender-affirming healthcare.

Scott Riley, a long-time Ithaca visitor and advocate for sanctuary policies, praised the city’s progressive stance, saying, “I’ve always looked at Ithaca as the progressive bastion in this very conservative area, and during the first Trump administra-

tion, I was proud to see Ithaca pass these sanctuary ordinances.” Riley continued saying, “The Trump administration has made it clear that they're going to try and bully sanctuary cities into compliance with an agenda that the people of Ithaca have rejected, and that isn’t that dangerous for everyone.”

The Ithaca Common Council will vote on reaffirming the city’s sanctuary status for immigrants, reproductive rights, and genderaffirming healthcare during an upcoming meeting on January 22.

Adam Hart, Chair of the Ithaca Communist Party USA, said that reaffirming the city's sanctuary status would “send a powerful message to the city that the Ithaca will not allow right-wing extremists to threaten its people.”

Caitlin Hunter, a local healthcare organization employee, emphasized the necessity of protecting reproductive and gender-affirming healthcare. “These are no longer abstract threats but ever-present dangers,” Hunter said.

“Reaffirmation of our sanctuary city status sends a message to our community members that these fear-mongering tactics will not be tolerated.”

Ithaca resident Whitney Rivera shared a personal perspective on the importance of these protections. “Gender-affirming care has quite literally saved my life,” Rivera said. “It’s already extremely inaccessible, and I’m terrified for the people who may lose access.”

Speakers highlighted the threats posed

T ake n ote

by the incoming Trump administration, including threats of cutting federal funding to sanctuary cities, potential mass deportations of undocumented immigrants and their families, and legal action against reproductive healthcare providers.

Former Fourth Ward Alderperson and Democratic Socialists of America (DSA) organizer Jorge DeFendini underscored the interconnectedness of sanctuary policies. “Sanctuary status is a safeguard for many who need these protections,” he said. “We must not allow scare tactics to weaken our resolve.”

A Cornell student, Sam Poole, urged the city to prepare for potential challenges. “A resolution from the council reaffirming sanctuary status sends a strong signal that we will not back down in the face of intimidation from the federal government,” Poole said. He called on the city to educate employees about their rights and responsibilities under sanctuary policies.

Continued on Page 5

X City Federation of Women’s Organizations New Annual Grant Cycle Awards over $60,000.00

The mission of CFWO is to act as a catalyst for the improvement of the lives of all women and girls in Tompkins County, thus making a contribution to the entire community.

This year, women and girls in Tompkins County will benefit from the $64,000.00 in grants being awarded by the City Federation of Women’s Organizations (CFWO).

Nine grants, up to $15,000 each, were awarded. Winning projects focused on Community Development, Education, Gender Equity, Health, Human Services, and/or Social Justice. Here are the projects receiving Women Building Community grants this year:

• Village at Ithaca https://villageatithaca.org/

• Tompkins Learning Partners https:// tlpartners.org/

• Running to Places https://www.runningtoplaces.org/

• Ithaca Health Alliance https://www.ithacahealth.org/

• Women’s Opportunity Center https://www. womensopportunity.org

• Second Wind Cottages Dryden House https:// www.secondwindcottages.org/

• Open Doors English https://sites.google.com/ view/open-doors-english/

• Child Development Council https://www.

childdevelopmentcouncil.org/

• Family Reading Partners https://www.familyreading.org/

Two unexpected needs grants were also granted in 2024: $1,000 to the Village at Ithaca and $1,000 to Bike Walk Tompkins. Unexpected needs grants are a rolling grant opportunity to help nonprofits fund unexpected needs or opportunities, and/or emergencies.

The CFWO has awarded nearly $600,000 in grants since 2013. For more information about the CFWO, and our Annual Grant Cycle, please visit www.womenbuildingcommunity.org.

F r 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 ENTIRE CONTENTS OF THE ITHACA TIMES ARE COPYRIGHT © 2024, BY NEWSKI INC.

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and

By Mark Syvertson QUESTION OF THE WEEK:

“THE NFL PLAYOFFS HAVE BEGUN. IS THIS THE YEAR THE BILLS WIN THE SUPER BOWL?”

Some Announce Re-Election Bids for Tompkins County Legislature, Others Won’t Run Again

By Matt Dougherty

Tompkins County Legislators Shawna Black and Mike Sigler have announced campaigns to seek re-election to the county legislature.

Black has been the Democratic representative for the 11th District, which includes the Town of Ithaca since she was first elected in 2017. However, due to the county redrawing district lines, she is running for re-election in the 6th District.

Before redistricting, Sigler served as the Republican representative for the 6th District, which included the Town of Lansing, since he was first elected to the legislature in 2006. Now that the lines have been redrawn, Sigler is seeking re-election in the 8th District, which is “very close to the former District 6 that [he] represents now,” according to a statement released by Sigler.

In her re-election announcement, Black said the redistricting process “created a unique opportunity to meet and represent a broader cross-section of our community.” She added, “I’m committed to listening to the voices of all residents in District 6 and ensuring their concerns are heard and addressed.”

Despite coming from different sides of the political spectrum, Black and Sigler have focused on addressing local issues such as homelessness, mental health, and public safety.

“Mental health has always been a significant focus for me,” Black said. “Our community needs enhanced support systems for individuals and families dealing with these challenges.” She added that the county needs to do more to make their services “accessible and impactful.”

Additionally, Black highlighted the importance of having experienced voices at the table as the county prepares to build a new shelter to address the increasing issue of homelessness.

“Homelessness is a complex issue that requires thoughtful and compassionate solutions,” she said. “The new shelter project is a critical step, and I want to ensure it’s implemented in a way that truly serves those in need.”

Sigler also mentioned the new shelter as a reason for his decision to seek reelection. “I’d like to see some of the proj-

ects we have going through to completion,” Sigler said. “The new homeless shelter is critical going forward, and I’d like to see it based on a treatment model as opposed to facilitating continued drug use.”

Sigler has also praised the county's partnership with Cayuga Medical to invest $1.5 million in opening a Mental Health Stabilization Unit, adding that “Cayuga Medical is also reopening the Detox facility at the same location.”

Sigler highlighted the importance of addressing mental health, saying, “We have a mental health and drug abuse crisis in our area and country. Treatment, even when it fails again and again, is the only way forward.

He added that additional large-scale projects, such as the Center of Government building in downtown Ithaca, and challenges with Borg Warner and Cargill, two of the largest local employers, have impacted his decision to run for re-election.

“In Lansing, we still have the issue of a natural gas moratorium that has stifled growth and concern that at least two of our long-term and largest employers, Borg Warner and Cargill, have significant challenges,” Sigler said.

He said he supports the idea of redeveloping the Ithaca Mall and incorporating some “light industry” as well as single-family housing and townhomes. “If we prepare the space, we can reduce the risk for developers and build these living spaces affordably,” Sigler said.

Regarding the issue of affordability, Sigler said, “We need to bring new businesses in to pay more taxes if we ever hope to lower the immense burden taxpayers

are now bearing.” He added that he has never voted for a county tax rate increase. Additionally, he is “concerned” about the large-scale industrial solar power plants planned for the town, saying, “They will change the face of the town for my children’s lifetimes.”

While Sigler’s opposition to solar power may contrast with New York’s sustainability goals, Black has advocated for policies that prioritize environmental sustainability and climate action.

“Sustainability isn’t just a buzzword; it’s a responsibility,” Black said. “We owe it to future generations to create policies that protect our environment while supporting economic growth.”

In her current role as Vice Chair of the Legislature, Black has prioritized transparency and collaboration. She works closely with her colleagues to create equitable policies and improve communication with constituents.

“I believe in leading with integrity and fostering an environment where all voices are valued,” she said. “That’s how we’ve been able to tackle complex issues and find solutions that benefit everyone.”

Reflecting on her tenure, Black expressed pride in the progress made in Tompkins County but acknowledged that there is still much work to do.

“We’ve accomplished a lot, but the work is never done,” she remarked. “Whether it’s advocating for mental health resources, addressing housing needs, or creating sustainable policies, I’m dedicated to building

“Absolutely not. My Texans are going all the way!”

Cindy

“I don't want to jinx it. If they can beat the Ravens, they have a shot.”

Todd

“Eagles all the way. Josh Allen might get MVP but it should be Saquon Barkley.”

Ilshim

“I’m not a big sports guy but if they can score more points than the other team, they’ll almost definitely win.”

Kevin

“Definitely. I think the Bills are winning it all.”

Cole

Shawna Black and Mike Sigler have announced campaigns to seek re-election to the Tompkins County Legislatire and several of their colleagues have chosen to not run again. (Photo: Tompkins County)

The Talk at

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

RE: Library Place Lowers Age Restriction & Rents

“Thanks for covering this story. Mr. Travis was asked by someone on the board how much the rents would go up in the third year, that is to say, at the end of the two-year period. He dodged the question by answering about the second year instead. No one pushed him on it, and it remained unanswered.” — Peter Wissoker

“How can anyone around here afford those rents? Anyone who can afford these can afford a house.” — Magic Lamp

“How can the developers compare their “rental prices” with Kendal? Kendal offers services included in its monthly fees (which are not “rents”).” — James Gossett

“A few hundred dollars off doesn’t change the fact that Library Place is unaffordable for most people, regard-

less of age. Seniors with moderate incomes who aren’t well off enough for Kendal and don’t qualify for the available senior housing locally have been forgotten. No answer for what the rent will be in the third year is quite telling.” — Carol LaBorie

“I don’t understand why the Common Council doesn’t seem to have the ability to have a contract. Our City gives tax abatements without receiving the long term benefits. And to compare Library Place with Kendall is bizarre. The size, the level of services, the pool, the hundreds of private residences. Honestly, apples and oranges. Beyond all that, what kind of person moves into a place knowing the rent will ruin their fixed income budget within three years? I agree with everything that has already been said.” —

Myfanwy Flinn

RE: Legislators Won’t Run Again

“Why would so many legislators not run again? Y’all better hang on and save your money for the tax man ..... he cometh” — John Butler

“We are not running again for a variety of reasons, but mostly because we have put in a number of years in a difficult job and it’s time to do something different.” — Dan Klein

RE: Responding to Ralph Janis, writing about “Old Memories”

“Mr Janis mentions the fried chicken eatery at the corner of Elmira Rd and Meadow Street. I believe he is speaking about the Sunnyside restaurant, an old favorite of mine. My family went there on a regular basis. My brother and I would order chicken in a basket, which held two or three pieces of fried chicken and French fries. For drinks, I would order a Shirley Temple cocktail. My mother always gave me the cherry from her bird bath Manhattan. Those were great times!” — Lydia Pettis

RE: Bird Flu

“Thanks for covering this topic. One thing you neglected to report on is how common this virus is in the wild bird populations. Check in with the Swanson Wildlife Center at the Cornell Vet School. I know they have taken in and euthanized many wild birds with avian influenza. And just a state away in PA, there are many hundreds of snow geese dying from this disease. It is not that far away from our wild friends.”

— Nancy Casumano

RE: Short Term Rental Law Enforcement

“Ok. But what about all of these property owners that have 4, 5, 6+ units in a property that are maxing out the rent revenue by renting individual bedrooms and trying to charge 3500 plus for a 4 bedroom house. This is also a large amount of downtown rental properties. Pricing poor families out of decent housing. Or the slumlords with 10+ units that rake in thousands of dollars a month from government subsidies like DSS and Section 8 monies that are never forced to renovate or exterminate vermin? This is just a money grab from companies like Rocco Construction that are fixing up rundown properties raising the overall property values. This company also re-invests in their properties annually to beautify the neighborhood. I lived next door to Rocco's owner Jeff for 5

SANCTUARY CITY STATUS

continued from page 3

The reaffirmation effort reflects Ithaca’s long-standing commitment to progressive governance. The sanctuary ordinances, first passed in 2017, were expanded in 2022 to protect those seeking reproductive healthcare and again in 2023 to include gender-affirming care.

Cantelmo emphasized that these pro-

years and witnessed him doing this. Hold the real zombie house and property managers accountable, not the people beautifying the area. Why doesn't the common council force the owner of Asteri to provide wrap around services to the marginalized community they are said to serve? This company is getting bag loads of cash to house the homeless. They give them their key and wash their hands. And then evict them for being the people they KNOW THEY ARE. And then they say, well we tried to house them! Looks like we need to fill these apartments with students. Meanwhile, getting the buildings like Asteri and Arthaus built with grant monies on the basis of housing the homeless. This is a despicable money grab hidden as fair housing.” — Antony

Sidle

Deny The Wiedmeier Court Cell tower

“We the undersigned 115 concerned citizens of Ithaca are urging you to revote and deny the Wiedmeier Court cell tower application before the Zoning Board's January 28 meeting. At the November 19 Planning Board meeting, the Board members were given incorrect information that denying the cell tower would be ‘effective prohibition’ when in fact, Verizon had not shown any proof, as our codes require, that their 138’ tower is the least intrusive means to fill the gap in service coverage. In fact, this large, obtrusive monopole is likely not the least intrusive means of filling this gap in service when there is the option of small cell antennas, which are viable solutions as attested to by independent consultants. Verizon “respectfully disagreed”, referring to their 'evidence' in Exhibit GG, which was simply conclusory statements that small cells were not viable to achieve “the necessary coverage goals sought by VZW” (not for remedying the gap). Tellingly, neither Verizon employees ever explicitly said that small cells could not remedy the gap in service. Thus, it was highly.

Note: This statement was sent to the Town of Ithaca Planning board and signed by more than 100 residents.

tections align with the city’s values. “We, as a council, plan to uphold our oath and stand by the rights of the people of Ithaca,” he said, reiterating the council’s resolve in the face of federal threats.

The proposed resolution will be introduced at the January 22 Common Council meeting. If passed, it will reaffirm Ithaca’s status as a sanctuary city and its commitment to safeguarding immigrant, reproductive, and LGBTQ+ rights.

UPS DOWNS&

Ups

U.S. Senator Chuck Schumer has announced $109,255 in federal funding for Friends of the Ithaca Farmers Market to build a new shared commercial kitchen for use by small food entrepreneurs seeking to grow their businesses and sell at places like the Ithaca Farmers Market.

Downs

Joann Fabrics, which filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy in March, is closing several locations, including its Ithaca store at 2309 Triphammer Rd.

HEARD SEEN&

Heard

The Women’s March and The Peoples March will take place on January 18th, 2025 in Washington DC in anticipation of the inauguration of President Donald Trump on January 20th.

Seen

Tompkins County Whole Health (TCWH) seeks individuals with a passion for addressing issues regarding mental health and substance use to join a subcommittee of the Tompkins County Community Services Board(CSB).

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

Frank Kruppa Steps Down as Tompkins County Whole Health Commissioner to Join Cayuga Health

By Matt Dougherty

ITHACA, N.Y. — After 14 years of dedicated service, Frank Kruppa, the Tompkins County Whole Health Commissioner, has announced his resignation. Kruppa’s last day with the county will be February 7, 2025, as he prepares to take on a new role with Cayuga Health System in March 2025.

Kruppa will serve as Assistant Vice President of Community Program Development and Partner Integration at Cayuga Health, focusing on advancing community health initiatives, including projects for underserved populations and crisis stabilization. Kruppa’s departure marks the end of an era for public health in Tompkins County. Reflecting on his next chapter, Kruppa told the Ithaca Times that he was “excited” about his new role at Cayuga Health and

looks forward to “helping the underserved and vulnerable achieve good health.”

According to Kruppa, “My current role for the County involved identifying needs and gaps, and now I will be able to support the efforts to fill those gaps.” He added, “I know this comes on the heels of the announcement of Centralus, and I look forward to being part of this new era of healthcare in our region.”

Kruppa joined the Tompkins County Health Department in 2011 and became the county’s first Whole Health Commissioner in 2022 following the integration of public health and mental health services. He led the county’s response to the COVID-19 pandemic and developed innovative programs to address mental health and public safety challenges.

As the face of Tompkins County’s COVID-19 response, Kruppa coordinated

efforts to manage the public health crisis, including mass vaccination clinics and collaborations with community partners. He also helped establish the CARE Team, a mental health and law enforcement co-response unit, as part of the county’s Reimagining Public Safety initiative.

Outgoing Tompkins County Administrator Lisa Holmes said, “Frank’s

Library Place Developer Strikes Deal: Lowered Rents, Younger Tenants

By Maddy Vogel

Tompkins County Industrial Development Agency (TCIDA) has reached an agreement with Travis Hyde, the developer behind the tax-abated luxury senior housing apartment complex Library Place. Under the new terms, the development will be permitted to welcome younger tenants, on the condition that rents are reduced.

Does Ithaca have too many marijuana dispensaries?

Visit ithaca.com to submit your response.

After the Tompkins County Industrial Development Agency denied Travis Hyde’s proposal last month to open up Library Place to younger tenants, Frost Travis, President of Travis Hyde, returned to the board on Wednesday to try again.

Travis told the agency that he had acquired another investment, which would allow him to lower rents by 10% for all current and future tenants in Library Place for two years, on the condition that the age restriction for tenants be removed. Previously, Travis had defended the rent prices, attributing the high price tag to rising costs during the project’s multiyear delayed construction and unexpected increases in debt service payments. Travis argued that rents were in line with other live-in long term care facilities for seniors, like Kendal at Ithaca and Longview.

Rent at Library Place currently ranges from $2,545 for a one-bedroom apartment to $5,935 a month for a three-bedroom, two-bathroom unit. The rents will be lowered by 10%, dropping the cost of each unit by a couple hundred dollars each month.

Even with the rent reduction, prospective tenants will still need to make $91,620 annually (or $7,635 per month) to ensure that no more than 30% of their income goes toward rent. According to the U.S. Census, in Tompkins County, the median household income in 2023 was $73,012.

Travis initially approached the board to remove the age restriction because the 55+ tenancy was a condition of the project’s $5.32 million 10-year tax abatement. In November, Travis said the project was facing financial instability, with less than one-third of their units being occupied.

The development, located at 105 W Court St., replaced the former Tompkins County Public Library building, which sat vacant for several years and was untaxed before the county sought development proposals for the site. Library Place is expected to generate $1.7 million in new property taxes over the 10-year abatement period.

TCIDA member Todd Bruer voted against the motion at the meeting, citing concerns that

the project had strayed from its initial goals.

“When this was sold to the public, it was affordable housing for senior living, and so we’ve still got that void there for senior living because it is tough for people to get in there financially,” Bruer said.

Despite Bruer’s objection, the TCIDA approved the agreement, allowing Travis Hyde to retain their tax abatement, lower rents by 10% for two years and transition Library Place into multigenerational housing.

“It serves the community, I believe, to have this as a viable building,” said IDA Chair Rich John. “It doesn’t serve anybody if it goes into foreclosure, and getting lower rents is good.”

Library Place, the luxury apartment complex at 105 W Court St in Ithaca, will transition to multigenerational housing after the Tompkins County Industrial Development Agency approved a deal with developer Travis Hyde. (Photo: Mark Syvertson)

Frank Kruppa, outgoing Tompkins County Whole Health Commissioner, will transition to a new role with Cayuga Health System in March 2025.

The Ithaca Youth Bureau’s College and Career Discovery Program

By Marjorie Olds

Dewrail Daquan Rockett, Jr. grew up on South Hill and attended South Hill Elementary School. From kindergarten through sixth grade, he spent school holidays, summer vacation and anytime there was no school, at GIAC, which he loved. From as far back as he can remember he wanted to be in the NBA. So, he tried to squeeze some basketball into every day, often at GIAC, where the staff were his supporters and his heroes. “I did everything there—recreation, sports, cooking. We even took a trip to an NBA NJ Nets basketball game!”

Daquan’s father, Dewrail Daquan Rockett, Sr. was a three sport guy, doing track, football, and basketball, so he understood and supported Daquan’s everyday yearning to play sports.

Although raised by a single working father for most of his life, Daquan recalls his father stopping by his school and at GIAC, and being involved in his academic, sports, and social well-being. Daquan’s father instructed him all the time—how to get along with his caretakers, his teachers, his coaches, and how to learn to take care of himself. Working and parenting an active kid may have been a stretch, but Daquan thinks his Dad was terrific.

Daquan’s father got a 2nd job when Daquan was in the 6th grade. He had always expressed to Daquan that he wanted him to learn how to be independent and responsible. “When he would leave for work, he would always say ‘Lock the door when you play outside. You know how to make food. You can watch a little TV, and then go to bed.’ By sixth grade I did remember to lock the door before I went anywhere on my own. I did know how to cook, and how to stay out of trouble.”

Also, around the time Daquan was transitioning to Middle School, his best friend’s mother, Marilyn Reitenbach, urged Daquan to join her son’s lacrosse team. Daquan loved Marilyn and the whole Ciferri family, who would transport Daquan to and from practice, and supported him and included him in every way, since Daquan and Paolo

Ciferri were inseparable throughout Middle school, and beyond.

In 7th grade Daquan would go along to Paolo’s lacrosse matches with Paolo’s family, and Daquan would play catch with Paolo on the sidelines. In the meantime, Daquan was playing basketball. In 8th grade Paolo’s mother upped the ante during dinner, in a conversation that started with: “If you play lacrosse, I will do everything I can to get you into college.” And so, he did, and so she did. And along the way, Daquan joined the Ithaca High School’s Lacrosse team and got to play in two Lacrosse State Championships. All the while, playing on the IHS basketball team, as well.

Growing up Daquan was independent, and mostly did things “his way,” but he never got into trouble. “When I was tempted to do something “risky,” I would think ‘If I do this, what will my Dad think?’ and that kept me in line. I learned how to set limits when I wasn’t supervised.”

Also, in 6th grade as Daquan was making the stretch from elementary to middle school, he was invited to join the Ithaca Youth Bureau’s College Discovery Program. This was a program to reduce the achievement gap and to decrease racial tensions at neighboring elementary schools Beverly J. Martin and Enfield Elementary Schools. Daquan, from neither school, reluctantly joined this program.

“I didn’t know any kids from Enfield, and I knew a bunch of BJM kids from GIAC, but I didn’t think I needed this program. My Dad did, so I knew he would make me go. And I did…My father and I Continued on Page 16

GUEST OPINION

Remembering Booker T. Briggs

By Cynthia Loring MacBain

Every year on Martin Luther King’s birthday, I think of Booker T. Briggs, and how he as a small child faced up to the evil of racism. His story is a reminder of how dangerous the work of King, Congressman John Lewis, Bernard Lafayette and others was.

I met Booker T during the late 1980s at Sing Sing Correctional Facility, which sits above the Hudson River in Ossining, New York. Our program, the Alternatives to Violence Project, had been doing workshops in the medium security section of the prison for several years, and when we were finally given space to do workshops “on the hill,” which is the maximum security section, Booker T was in the first group of men we trained as facilitators. Booker T was anything but what is characterized as the typical body building inmate. Cancer had left him thin and angular, leaving eyes long and sad above protruding cheekbones and hollow cheeks. He was bright and articulate and argumentative, and from the moment we introduced ourselves and learned that we were the same age, we became brother and sister. Booker T, with his few months on me, decided he was my older brother, and then he appointed himself my mentor in all things prison.

His advice, often running into long lectures, began with “What you gotta understand is…” or “You hear what I’m saying…” or a combination of the two, Booker T liked to illustrate his lectures, and when he began with “What you women gotta understand,” he showed me how to sit, and more importantly, how to bend over to pick something up from the floor. “I don’t care how ugly or old or fat a woman is, if she bends over like this,” Booker T said while bending over and wiggling his scrawny butt in the air, “everything’s gonna stop and everybody’s gonna look.”

Booker T and I facilitated a lot of workshops together, and we often met weekly to plan and write. I never asked him what he had done to land himself in prison, but I did ask him about his childhood, and one day he told me the story of how his family moved to California.

Booker T was born in Georgia in 1939, in one of those Black communities of shacks that were on the edge of towns. They had an old car, which his mother used to drive to town to clean houses for white women. His father had only one good arm, so he had no regular job but would go into town with his

wife hoping to pick up any odd jobs.

There was a country store owned by a white man, and Booker T’s father would never go in, but would send his wife — or one of the children when they grew older — to do any shopping for him.

One day Booker T just refused to go, demanding to know why his father wouldn’t go himself. It was then he learned why. As a child, Booker T’s father had gotten in a fight with the son of the white store owner. He bloodied the kid’s nose. And the store owner came out, grabbed Booker T’s father by the arm, dragged him into the store where he grabbed an axe from the wall, laid the child’s arm on the counter and chopped it off beneath the elbow. He then turned to the Blacks in the store and said something like “Tell his parents if they want this nigger to live, they better come and get him quick.”

After Booker T heard this story, he marched his 6-year-old body down to the store, up the steps, across the porch, through the screened door and then to the front of the counter. He then announced for all to hear, “I know what you did to my daddy, and I may be small now, but I’m gonna get big, and when I do, I’m gonna come and hurt you back for what you did to my daddy.”

Booker T then turned and marched himself home and announced what he had done. His parents said nothing, but they began to pack, and when darkness came, the family drove out of town, never turning the lights on until they felt they were far enough away not to be confronted by an armed mob.

Booker T was still in prison when he died of cancer, and I still don’t know — or care — what he did as an adult to land him in prison. But that six year old boy risked his life and limb to stand up to injustice in 1945. Perhaps his action was foolhardy at the time, but that same sense of justice and personal dignity that was in him that day is the heart of the civil rights movement that has changed our democracy and held it to its core values.

For the next four years, we will have a president who has refused to condemn white supremacists and who denigrated the commitment of John Lewis. In his last term, Trump appointed federal judges and Supreme Court justices who are supportive of increasing presidential powers, and they will be determining the constitutionality of voter suppression laws and other laws that will affect our freedoms and our democracy. We must remain vigilant and defend justice in spite of the consequences — like 6 year old Booker T. “You hear what I’m saying?”

Daquan Rockett and Paolo Ciferri after their first lacrosse game at Syracuse University.

Ithaca’s Marijuana Mecca

Five dispensaries are currently operating in Tompkins County all with their own niche, and more are set to come

By Kinsey Burr and Maddy Vogel

Cannabis use has long been a part of Ithaca’s culture, even before it was legalized in March 2021, when New York State passed the Marajuana Regulation and Taxation Act. Since then, the cannabis industry has grown tremendously across the state and throughout Tompkins County.

According to the New York State Office of Cannabis Management (OCM), there are currently 264 adult-use cannabis dispensaries across New York, with five of those located in Tompkins County.

Thirty-eight licenses have been granted in Tompkins County, signaling a high level of interest and an expanding market for adult-use recreational marijuana. In Syracuse’s Onondaga County, which has over four times the population of Tompkins, there have been 35 licenses granted. Similarly, Tompkins is ahead of Broome County, which has nearly double the population of Tompkins but has 33 licences granted.

With 38 cannabis licenses granted in Tompkins, the county is outpacing other regions, signalling a high level of local interest. Onondaga County, with more than four times Tompkins’ population, has only 35 licenses, while Broome County—nearly double Tompkins’ pupulation—has been granted 33 licenses.

Tompkins County has been a major player in New York’s cannabis market, helping

William Jane Dispensary, located at 119 E. State Street on the Ithaca Commons, made history as Ithaca’s first legal adult-use cannabis dispensary.

(Photo:

generate more than $1 billion in tax revenue for the state in 2024. The county is home to the sixth licensed dispensary in the state and the first dispensary to be licensed for a drivethrough pick up, making its mark with innovative approaches to cannabis retail.

WILLIAM JANE DISPENSARY

William Jane made history when it became the first legal adult-use cannabis dispensary in Ithaca and the sixth dispensary to be licensed by New York State. Located at 119 E State Street in the commons of downtown Ithaca, William Jane Dispensary was renovated last year and reopened in June of 2024.

Jermain Thomas, manager of William Jane Dispensary, said that Ithaca was not among the locations that they had applied for a license in. He said their application included Binghamton and Vestal, which both currently have adult-use dispensaries in operation.

Thomas said that they found this location through the DASNY Fund, New York’s Cannabis Social Equity Investment fund that helps individuals impacted by the disproportionate cannabis prohibition lease and equip suitable real estate for retail adult-use cannabis dispensaries.

“They kind of found this location and asked if we wanted to be here,” Thomas

The Highly Connected Dispensary, located at 423 Franklin Street in Ithaca, opened in August 2024. Founded by Wendy Matesanz and JP Toro, the dispensary emphasizes sustainability and education. (Photo: Mark Syvertson)

said. “It’s right in the middle of Ithaca, it’s in the commons, they definitely nailed it.”

This $200 million public-private DASNY fund was proposed by Governor Hochul and adopted by the legislature to provide support for justice-involved individuals who have received conditional adult-use retail Dispensary (CAURD) license from the State Office of Cannabis Management, and is the first of its kind to be implemented in the nation.

Thomas said that William Jane is licensed for adult-use on-site consumption, but that they are waiting for the state to fully access the consumption aspect of their business to the public.

“Once all the red tape from the state is out of the way, customers will be able to buy products here and actually consume products here,” Thomas said. “I hope that that can happen quickly, because that will really separate us from everyone else.”

Thomas said that this is not specifically a William Jane Dispensary issue, and that there are dispensaries across the state licensed for consumption but are waiting for the state to allow on-site consumption.

Despite not being open for on-site consumption, William Jane is still open for business and currently sells marajuana for recreational use. Every grower and processor used by William Jane is located in New York state, and each product is tested to make sure it is free from harmful substances.

DRYDEN DISPENSARY

Dryden Dispensary is an adult-use cannabis dispensary located at 2207 Dryden Road in Dryden, New York. They opened in May 2024, and were the first dispensary in New York state licensed for a drive through pick up.

Kevin Cossaboon, manager of Dryden Dispensary, said that being located outside of Ithaca was an intentional business strategy to bring in customers with less access than those in Ithaca.

“A friend of ours showed us the building and we ultimately chose that location because of the amount of traffic that goes by there everyday, which is a lot,” Cossaboon said. The drive through operates with efficiency as its focus, Cossaboon said that customers can order online and then pick up their order in the drive through line, so customers do not have to get out of their car. Although many dispensaries in New York state and Tompkins County have an online order feature for easy pick up, Dryden Dispensary is the only one in Tompkins County to offer drive through services.

“I think a lot of our customers are commuters that just happen to drive right by everyday and it’s convenient for them,” Cossaboon said. “That's kind of how we designed the whole dispensary to make it very simple with a large parking lot and a drive through pick up.”

Dryden Dispensary, located at 2207 Dryden Road in Dryden, New York, opened in May 2024 as the first New York State-licensed adult-use cannabis dispensary with a drive-through pickup service.

Mark Syvertson)

Aspire Dispensary, located at 205 N Fulton Street in Ithaca, opened in March 2024 as a not-for-profit cannabis dispensary. Owned by Challenge Workforce Solutions, Aspire supports job training and placement for people with disabilities, with proceeds directly contributing to the organization’s mission. (Photo: Mark Syvertson)

Cossaboon also said that Dryden Dispensary works closely with New York State vendors and growers to make sure they are providing high quality cannabis products.

“We work with the vendors we purchase our products from, they come in and do budtender training to make sure all of our bud tenders know exactly what they are selling and who to sell it to,” Cossaboon said.

COLLEGETOWN DISPENSARY

Collegetown Dispensary opened in October 2024 at 105 Dryden Road in Collegetown in Ithaca. Rachel Mitchell, general manager of Collegetown Dispensary, said that ownership has been in Ithaca for a long time.

“We have deep roots in the community and we decided to stay in Ithaca,” Mitchell said. “ It’s a beautiful place, it’s got a booming college town environment and we just thought it would be a great place with connections to the area.”

Mitchell said that Collegetown Dispensary is planning on working with local businesses and organizations to create stronger connections among the community.

“We take a very farm to table approach, and the businesses around us have been very excited, very welcoming, and were really looking forward to getting involved in the community.’

There is currently no state certification for cannabis bud tenders in New York state, but Mitchell said she has been certified through other states and has transferred that knowledge to their bud tenders to help them get a proper education.

“We also go through education platforms as well, and as soon as the state sets up an education system we will be getting involved in that very quickly,” Mitchell said.

An emphasis on education is among Mitchell’s plans for Collegetown Dispensary,

for those who work at the dispensary and for those who are shopping.

“Everybody reacts differently to cannabis, so we really try to work with our customers and pinpoint the effect that they are looking for to get them the correct product,” Mitchell said. “It's not a one size fits all service.”

THE HIGHLY CONNECTED DISPENSARY

The Highly Connected Dispensary is an adult-use cannabis dispensary located at 423 Franklin Street in Ithaca. Wendy Matesanz and her husband JP Toro opened the dispensary in August 2024.

Matensanz said she has been in industry since the early nineties, and they also own Toro Glass, who makes functional, scientific and artistic borosilicate glass. She added that their involvement in different markets has made them well-known in the cannabis industry.

“We’re world renowned for [Toro Glass], and through that my husband is incredibly respected in the industry. He does a lot of cannabis and hash judging throughout the world in Spain, California and New York.”

The Highly Connected Dispensary is focused on sustainability from all business angles, including the construction of their business site. By using healthier and less carbon-intensive materials, the Highly Connected is aiming to minimize the overall environmental impact of their business.

Matensanz said that education and community are important values for the Highly Connected. Some of the bud tenders have experience in and around the world of cannabis, including a local herbalist and a Cornell graduate with a degree in horticulture and sustainable agriculture.

Matensanz also emphasized the importance of having educated bud tenders, to be able to connect customers with the best product for their needs and desires.

“We also have super easy access, and a lot of people also like the fact that it is somewhat discreet, meaning we’re not right on the side of the road. It’s the best of both worlds.”

ASPIRE

Aspire Dispensary is a not-for-profit dispensary owned by CWS Holdings I, LLC, and was among the first 36 dispensary licenses to be granted in New York state. They are located at 205 N Fulton Street in Ithaca and have been open since March 2024.

Aspire is owned by Challenge Workforce Solutions, a non-profit organization in Ithaca that provides job training, placement and long-term support for people with disabilities and other barriers to employment. They were selected for one of the initial non-profit licenses by the New York state Office of Cannabis Management.

As a non-profit, part of Aspire Dispensary’s proceeds will go towards supporting Challenge Workforce Solutions mission to support those with disabilities.

Aspire Dispensary has an adult-use license and offers an assortment of cannabis products and smoking accessories at their boutique-style shop in Ithaca.

THE CORNER HOUSE

Ulysses will soon have its first legal cannabis dispensary, owned by Josh and Joan Friedman. Currently under construction, the dispensary is expected to open this spring.

The Friedmans have lived in Trumansburg since 2012 and own the property at 1710 Trumansburg Rd., where Mama Said Hand Pies Currently operates out of. Josh Friedman, an entrepreneur with a background in nonprofit management, said that he purchased the property in 2019 with a goal to revitalize the space, which once was home to Rascal’s bar.

Directly next to Mama Said Hand Pies sits a small single family home, which Friedman

The Corner House Dispensary was once a single family home, and is currently under construction, which is expected to be complete this spring. (Photo: Josh Friedman)

Owner Josh Friedman said that he hopes the dispensary’s central location along State Route 96 will attract locals and visitors alike. (Photo: Josh Friedman)

purchased with the former bar. The home is currently undergoing construction, and will soon be transformed into a New York State licensed cannabis dispensary- aptly named The Corner House, as it sits on the corner of State Route 96 and Van Dorn Corners Road.

Friedman said that he and his wife had always thought that the property would be the perfect location for a business, because it is along State Route 96 and is just three miles from Taughannock overlook, a popular destination for locals and tourists to visit in the warmer months of the year.

“In Trumansburg, we have everything here,” Friedman said. “We don’t have a lot of everything but we sort of have a little of everything. Living here, we kind of like to have the necessities close by.”

The home had sat vacant for several years while the Friedmans brainstormed what would fit best there. In 2023, New York State opened up a round of applications for legal dispensaries, and the Friedmans decided to apply. They were approved and soon began planning the future of their dispensary. Friedman described it as “the perfect opportunity,” by doing what he loves -managing a business- and selling a product that he loves.

The dispensary will be the first one in the Ulysses and Trumansburg area. Friedman said he hoped that The Corner House would encourage cannabis tourism in the area while providing locals with a closer location to acquire cannabis products.

Friedman said he hopes to stand out from other dispensaries by working with local products and small producers. By working with small producers, they hope to have new products every time people come in.

“We’re going to focus on local growers,” Friedman said. “Our goal is to work primarily with small batch growers and people who are creating craft cannabis.”

The town of Ulysses planning board has approved the change of use for the home, and the dispensary is expected to open in March or April of this year.

Ithaca Coffee Company Business Briefs

Ithaca Coffee Plans to Relocate in March

By David Durrett

The Ithaca Coffee Company, which has been part of the Triphammer Marketplace for 20 years, is planning to relocate to their 702 Hancock Street roastery on Ithaca’s northside in March.

Julie Crowley has owned Ithaca Coffee Company since buying Gourmet’s Delight in 2004, which is next door to the Ithaca Coffee Company’s sister company, Triphammer Wines & Spirits, in the Triphammer Marketplace. She said the decision to sell the location was out of a desire to “downsize” their business and focus on coffee.

“We’ve been doing this for 20 years, it’s a lot of work, and at at this point in our lives, we just want to downsize,” Crowley said.

Crowley acquired the building at 702 Hancock Street in 2013, since she was

looking for a location where she could do coffee roasting. According to her, the area is busier than it was in 2013 because of new housing developments in the area, and the business will be visible from Route 13.

“Once we get our sign up on that building, they’re going to know we’re there,” she said.

The new location will have an espresso bar, as well as a cafe with the foods the Ithaca Coffee company has now, such as scones, muffins and cinnamon rolls. Crowley said she is trying to figure out what retail items will be available at the Hancock Street location, but there will be fewer grocery items available- some chocolate bars might be available, but the new location will not have beer.

“We’ve got a loyal clientele, we’ve got brand awareness that we’ve built over 20 years,” Crowley said, “and I think we can keep some of our loyal customers and I think we can build our business down there for the espresso bar.”

Crowley held an open house at the Hancock Road location in December 2024, but not many people showed up due to the event being held two weeks before Christmas, when many other holiday events were being held. She said she planned to do a pop-up holiday store in the months of November and December, with items such as European chocolate, gift baskets and marzipan.

“We’ve been doing that in our store for the last 20 years, but it’s just November, December,” Crowley said, “so we’re just going to pop that up then. People come from all over for our Christmas stuff, so we’re going to make that work down there.”

Crowley said she plans on starting

up at the Hancock Street location in March, and will close the Triphammer Marketplace location in late February. She expressed the hope that a new tenant in that location would complement the nextdoor Triphammer Wines & Spirit and draw traffic.

“It’s a valuable space up here for somebody that wants to come in,” Crowley said, “It’s highly visible, it’s a good location.”

According to Crowley, the area around Hancock Road is developing and has not been fully established yet.

“We’re coming into a neighborhood that could use some community, and I

think us coming in there could help with that,” she said.

Crowley said that because she owns the Hancock Street location, she can more easily do work on the location to accommodate her business’s needs and those of her customers. She hopes to expand her customer base and grow her coffee in-house.

“I think we can build out a really nice, comfortable space down there,” Crowley said. “We have a quality product we’re putting out, so I’m excited to see what happens down there.”

Julie Crowley is preparing to relocate the business to focus on coffee and community on Ithaca’s northside. (Photo: File)

The Ithaca Coffee Company will move from its longtime home at the Triphammer Marketplace to its roastery at 702 Hancock Street in March. The new location will feature an espresso bar, a café, and a streamlined selection of retail items.

Business Briefs

Triphammer Road Taco Bell

Ribbon Cutting

LANSING, NY — The new Taco Bell restaurant located at 2301 North Triphammer Road ribbon cutting ceremony will be on Thursday, January 9th at 9:30 a.m.

“We are excited that we can continue to invest in the Ithaca community. We have built a beautiful new Taco Bell restaurant and are now serving up everyone’s favorite tacos, burritos, and quesadillas,” said Matt Prouty, Partner, Hospitality Syracuse, Inc d/b/a Taco Bell.

Customers have many options when it comes to ordering food at the new Taco Bell. In addition to dining in the restaurant, they can order in the drive through, which features new, easy to read digital menu boards.

Customers can also download the Taco Bell app and order ahead to have their food ready when they arrive. Delivery will be available via our partners at DoorDash, Grubhub and UberEats (where available). Visit tacobell.com for details.

This restaurant will be open every day

starting at 7:00 a.m. with breakfast and staying open late till 1:00 a.m. Full menu available starting at 9:00 a.m.

Hospitality Syracuse, Inc d/b/a Taco Bell is a locally owned franchisee of Taco Bell. For more information on our growing company, please visit www.hrgfood.com.

Now hiring! We are still hiring for all positions and all shifts. Enjoy FREE meals, flexible schedules, college scholarships, paid time off, health benefits and more! Apply at jobs.tacobell.com.

Advantage

Sport & Fitness Announces Acquisition by The Amenity Collective, Embarking on a Bold New Chapter in Fitness Equipment Distribution and Facility Design

IITHACA, NY — Advantage Sport & Fitness Inc. (ASF), a trusted leader in the commercial fitness industry for 37 years, is proud to announce that it has been acquired by The Amenity Collective, a wholly owned subsidiary of FirstService Corporation (NASDAQ:FSV).

The Amenity Collective is North America’s leading provider of full-service facilities management across the fitness, aquatics, and recreation industries. This partnership marks an exciting new chapter for ASF, enabling enhanced capabilities and expanded market reach while reinforcing the company’s commitment to providing concept to completion commercial fitness equipment solutions; and after the sale, customer services, that create “best-in-class” fitness facilities.

“Our vision has been to build an enduring great company that deliv-

ers exceptional value to our clients and partners,” said John Murray, President, Founder, and Co-Owner of ASF. “Joining The Amenity Collective aligns perfectly with that vision and our values, providing us with the resources and reach to elevate our impact across the fitness and wellness landscape. This milestone reflects the dedication and hard work of our incredible team, and we're thrilled about the opportunities this partnership creates for the future.”

Since its founding in 1987, ASF has remained steadfast in its mission: to design fitness spaces that transform customer visions

into fitness destinations that empower individuals, teams, and communities to achieve their health, fitness, and wellness goals. This guiding principle has helped the Ithaca, NY-based company become the premier distributor of Precor commercial fitness equipment on the U.S. East Coast and a trusted partner for fitness facility design, equipment installation and service.

In addition to its exclusive Precor partnership, ASF represents industry leading fitness brands such as Peloton, Escape Fitness, and Power Lift, serving a diverse client base that includes multifamily properties, schools, universities, country clubs and corporate fitness centers. Recent expansions into the Mid-Atlantic and New England markets and the establishment of a 51,000-square-foot warehouse in Greenville, SC, underscore ASF’s commitment to scalability and service innovation.

The acquisition by The Amenity Collective will also establish a partnership

SOME ANNOUNCE RE-ELECTION BIDS

continued from page 4

on our successes and creating a brighter future for everyone in Tompkins County.”

The 2026 term for the Tompkins County Legislature will bring significant changes, including new district lines based on the 2020 Census and an increase in the number of Legislators from 14 to 16.

Additionally, while Black and Sigler have announced plans to seek reelection,

FRANK KRUPPA STEPS DOWN

continued from page 6

between ASF and LIVunLtd, a premier division of The Amenity Collective specializing in fitness and wellness facility management.

“This partnership represents a tremendous opportunity to amplify our impact and continue building on the legacy we’ve established over nearly four decades,” said John Murray. “By joining forces with The Amenity Collective and LIVunLtd, we’re poised to elevate our services and deliver unparalleled value to our clients, team members, and vendor partners.”

ASF’s leadership team, including John Murray, John Pfuntner, and John Marcotte, will remain actively involved in the business, ensuring consistency and continued dedication to serving the company’s clients and employees.

Arleo Eye Associates Joins Cayuga Health System

Ithaca, NY, January 2, 2025 — Effective January 1, 2025, Arleo Eye Associates is

several of their colleagues have chosen to oppose them.

Several Democratic members of the Legislature, including Amanda Champion (District 12), Susan Currie (District 3), Deborah Dawson (District 10), Dan Klein (District 7), and Anne Koreman (District 5), have announced they will not seek reelection.

“We have served with pride, but we also recognize that all good things must come to an end,” the legislators said in a joint statement. “We look forward to seeing

professionalism, vision for the integrated department, knowledge, and commitment to the residents of Tompkins County is

Sunday, January 26 at 3:00 pm

now a part of Cayuga Health System. The practice, which has served the community for over 30 years, is transitioning to ensure continuous quality eye care for the community.

Dr. Robert Arleo started the practice in Ithaca, New York in 1994, and has since expanded an office to Auburn, New York. The practice is well-known for its commitment to the Finger Lakes Region and improving the well-being of patients through outstanding, personalized care.

“Arleo Eye Associates has become an integral part of the patient-centered health care provided in our region,” says Robert Arleo, M.D., founder of Arleo Eye Associates. “We are proud of our commitment to quality care in our community and strongly believe in Cayuga Health’s ability to continue the excellent, compassionate care that we have devoted ourselves to.”

Patients can expect minimal change as providers, phone numbers and fax numbers will remain the same.

“Cayuga Health is excited to work with the wonderful providers and staff at Arleo

the next group of Legislators carry on the work of good governance.”

In an interview with the Free Press, Koreman said her decision to end her tenure at the legislature was intended to make way for new voices.

“I think representatives should just serve for a short amount of time and let other people get in there, especially younger people,” Koreman said.

The announcement creates an opportunity for new candidates to run in these newly reconfigured districts. Petitioning

commendable [and] we are pleased that he will continue to serve the community through his new role and look forward to our continued partnership.”

Holmes also expressed confidence in the interim leadership of Jeremy Porter, the current Fiscal Administrator for Tompkins County Whole Health, who will assume the position of interim Commissioner.

Eye Associates. They have a long-standing tradition of excellent, patient-centered, and collaborative care that we look forward to carrying forward in partnership with the Arleo team,” says Jeffrey Penoyer, Vice President of Ambulatory Services at Cayuga Health.

The partnership with Cayuga Health will enable Arleo Eye Associates to continue to provide comprehensive care to patients while maintaining the trust and compassion for which they are known.

for ballot access begins on February 25, with petitions due by April 3. Primaries will be held on June 24, followed by the general election on November 4. Individuals interested in running are encouraged to contact their current County Legislature representative, local ward or town committee chairs, or Linda Hoffmann, Chair of the Tompkins County Democratic Committee, at chair@tcdemocrats.org. Additional election details can be obtained through the Tompkins County Board of Elections.

a critical role in advancing the establishment of federally qualified health centers (FQHCs) in Ithaca and Elmira, which aim to provide healthcare services to underserved populations. Additionally, Kruppa will be involved in the Crisis Stabilization Center project, which is slated to launch in late 2025 or early 2026.

Sponsors:

Tickets are available in advance online (CCOithaca.org) or by calling 607-273-8981

Tickets may be purchased at the door if there are seats! (Concerts sold out last year)

“Jeremy brings a deep understanding of operations of both public health and mental health services, making him well-suited to guide the team during this period of change,” Holmes said.

The county plans to launch a nationwide search for Kruppa’s successor in the upcoming weeks, and the position to be listed on the Tompkins County Human Resources website.

In his new position, Kruppa will play

“Cayuga Health is fortunate to have Frank joining our team,” said Jeff Penoyer, Vice President of Ambulatory Services and COO of Cayuga Medical Associates. “Frank has been a valued partner to Cayuga Health for many years and is a proven advocate for our community. His in-depth knowledge of public, mental, and behavioral health operations will add valuable insight as Cayuga Health enhances the services we provide to some of our most vulnerable patients.”

Arleo Eye Associates is now a part of Cayuga Health System.

GIAC to Host Annual MLK Celebration with Focus on Immigration Crisis

IBy Matt Dougherty

THACA, N.Y. — The Greater Ithaca Activities Center (GIAC) will commemorate Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s legacy on Saturday, January 18, 2025, with its annual MLK Celebration at the Beverly J. Martin (BJM) School Gymnasium from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. This year’s event will explore the immigration crisis in the United States, featuring workshops, performances, and a keynote address by New York’s Lieutenant Governor, Antonio Delgado.

“We set a theme each year based on what’s brewing in our community and nation that could potentially impact the human and civil rights of people,” said GIAC Director Leslyn McBean-Clairborne. “This year, we are focusing on immigration issues because of the uproar caused by threats of deportation, mass deportation, and the lack of immigration reform policy.”

McBean-Clairborne emphasized the significant consequences of these policies for Black and Brown communities, as well as the civil rights implications. “When we hear about families being separated and the lack of proper tracking methods to reunite them, or about dreamers and asylum seekers facing uncertainty, it’s clear these are civil rights issues that Dr. King would have stood strongly against,” she said.

The MLK Celebration will begin with a light breakfast and include three concurrent educational workshops. McBean-Clairborne noted that GIAC has shifted from a traditional breakfast format to one that incorporates learning and action.

“We want people to get more out of it. The workshops provide a deeper dive into topics that resonate with Dr. King’s vision of justice and inclusivity,” she explained.

The workshops will cover:

Immigration Concerns: A discussion on the implications of immigration policies for marginalized communities.

Wellness by Design: Claiming Space for Black Health: Led by Herb Alexander, this session will explore health and wellness, particularly for people of color.

Understanding Equity and Anti-Racism: A workshop focusing on what it means to be actively anti-racist and to work purposefully toward equity.

Attendees can choose one workshop to attend, as they will take place simultaneously. Childcare for children aged 4 and older will

& Entertainment

be provided to ensure accessibility for parents and guardians.

McBean-Clairborne also highlighted the keynote speaker’s significance. “Lieutenant Governor Antonio Delgado is an MLK scholar and someone immersed in immigration issues, particularly given New York’s status as a sanctuary state. His insight will be invaluable,” she said.

As an immigrant herself, McBean-Clairborne plans to share her own experiences

The Greater Ithaca Activities Center’s Annual MLK Celebration, set for January 18, 2025, at the Beverly J. Martin School Gymnasium, will feature a keynote address, educational workshops, performances, and a focus on immigration and social justice.

Wolfe Leads Multiple Musical Forces in Mozart’s Requiem

By Peter Rothbart

Ithaca Community Chorus Director Gerald Wolfe likes big music and the challenges performing it presents. A conversation with him reveals an unassuming yet confidant conductor who is articulate and so detail-oriented that he memorizes the musical scores. As he explained in an interview with me, “I prefer doing a major work and getting my teeth into it. It leads to a deeper understanding of the work. I don’t like to be tied to the score visually. I like to communicate with the players and singers and just be free.” He regularly hires the Cayuga Chamber Orchestra or contracts a professional orchestra to fortify his 80-voice Ithaca Community Chorus for a concert, then adds soloists. These semi-annual performances

are often the largest professional musical performances that Ithaca has to offer. On January 18 at 7:30 p.m., in St. Paul’s Methodist Church, he will put over 100 singers, soloists and orchestra members on stage to perform Mozart’s Requiem for the third time. His past performances of works on this scale have included Bach’s Mass in B minor and St. Matthew’s Passion, Brahms’s German Requiem, Verdi’s Requiem, Beethoven’s Missa Solemnis, and Handel’s Messiah and Creation. Soloists will include soprano Tamara Acosta, alto Caitlin Mathes, tenor Arthur Lewis, and bass David Neal. The Requiem was the Mozart’s last work. He died before finishing it, leaving only the opening Introitus, Offertorium and the Kyrie complete, as well as some sketches and notes (sic) for the remaining movements. His wife, Constanze, needed the commis-

sion money to survive (the Mozarts were hardly wealthy), so she engaged his assistant Franz Xaver Süssmayr to complete the work. He was not her first choice and it showed despite his claim to have had discussions with the composer before he died. In subsequent years, others tried to rectify perceived inconsistencies in Süssmayr’s orchestration and stylistic interpretation, leading to two centuries of musicological fisticuffs.

The Ithaca Community Chorus will perform David Levin’s 1993 version of the Requiem, which has become the most accepted version of the iconic work. In addition to refining the orchestration, Levin appended an “Amen” fugue to the end of the Lacrimosa, bringing Mozart’s Requiem in line with other requiems of the time.

What makes the Requiem the apotheosis of Mozart’s work is the complexity and frequency of his counterpoint in various guises including stretto, double fugues and even canons. It suggests his Baroque-era influences, which he lays out in a dark, yet lush orchestration. The orchestra is devoid of upper woodwinds, leaving us with a shadowy, mysteriously foreboding orchestral palette. His gift of melodic invention is supported by complex chromatic harmonies and dissonances that are emblematic of his later works, all wrapped in a Classicalera balance of form and phrasing.

And what a magnificent form it is. The opening of the Introit starts from nothing, then rises like a last gasp of air striking skyward, a soul departing, rising into the heavenly splendor of the choral entrance. In the Tuba Mirum, we can hear pre-echoes of Romantic-era orchestration. He gives the

Mozart’s Requiem

Ithaca Community Chorus and Chamber Singers Saturday, January 18, 7:30 p.m. St. Paul’s United Methodist Church 402 N. Aurora St. Ithaca, NY Tickets at www.brownpapertickets.com

Gerald Wolfe, director of the Ithaca Community Chorus, prepares to lead over 100 performers in a powerful rendition of Mozart’s Requiem on January 18 at St. Paul’s Methodist Church, bringing his passion for large-scale works and meticulous preparation to one of classical music’s most iconic masterpieces.

trombone a short and exposed solo melody, liberating it from its historical accompaniment role. Throughout the work, the string section supports rather than commands the chorus. Wolfe instructed the strings to adopt a baroque bowing style, which implies a minimum use of vibrato. Winds support and emphasize text and rhythmic punctuations.

The program opens with two works by the English composer Jonathan Dove, “Seek Him That Maketh the Seven Stars” and, “In Beauty May I Walk.” Dove is a contemporary composer focusing on choral and operatic writing. Both works will be sung by the Chamber Singers, an audition-only subset of the larger Community Chorus, which invites anyone to join and sing.

Memorize scores, months of prep, analyze and memorize.

Put it together in 1 week. 2 rehearsals with chorus and orchestra. Most players have played at least once. Parts distributed earlier so players can prep.

Peter Rothbart is a Professor Emeritus of Music at the Ithaca College School of Music, Theatre and Dance where he taught electroacoustic and media music for 40 years. He remains active as a classical, jazz and pop musician.

Cayuga Travel Clinic helps patients get vaccines, health documents for foreign trips, and safety advice

By Eli Finkelsztein, MD

If travel plans are on your 2025 calendar, the Travel Clinic at the Cayuga Center for Infectious Diseases can help you prepare with travel vaccines and occasional mandatory testing documentation that some destination require.

Eli Finkelsztein, MD, the Travel Clinic’s medical director, is a board-certified physician of internal medical and infectious diseases. In addition to internal medicine and infectious diseases, Finkelsztein and the Travel Clinic team have experience in travel and tropical medicine, wilderness medicine, parasitology, and immigrant medicine. The team provides routine travel vaccines, prevention for malaria, and travelers’ diarrhea management as well as general advice about staying healthy during travel Dr. Finkelsztein strongly encourages everyone considering international travel to be up to date on COVID-19 procedures and their vaccinations.

“When we see patients planning to travel to certain areas, we first review their vaccination history to see if they are up to date on routine immunizations for diseases like tetanus, flu, and COVID-19. Then, we’ll review specific vaccine recommendations for the destination, or the type of activities that will be performed in the trip.”

The team can provide individualized services to travelers 16 or older, those with special travel health needs, immunocompromised travelers, pregnant travelers, those preparing to work or live overseas for prolonged periods, and business and adventure travelers.

Among the more common immunizations travelers may need are: hepatitis, typhoid (in oral or injectable form), polio, meningococcal meningitis, Japanese encephalitis, and rabies.

“We advise travelers on the prevention of mosquito and insect bites, which can transmit very serious diseases like malaria, yellow fever, dengue fever, Japanese encephalitis and many others.” Finkelsztein says. The Clinic prescribes oral medications to prevent malaria. The yellow fever vaccine, typically in short supply, is available at the Travel Clinic.

Clinic appointments also review common travel concerns such as traveler’s diarrhea, altitude illness, motion sickness, and jet lag.

“Special care for those traveling during pregnancy, healthy travel for individuals with chronic diseases such as diabetes or immunosuppressive disorders, and health topics for long-term travelers can also be discussed,” Finkelsztein says.

The coverage by health insurance plans for a Travel Medicine visit can vary. Patients can expect an out-of-pocket expense of about $300 for the travel vaccines and office visit. The fee can be higher depending on the number and types of vaccines a patient might need. Patients will receive an itemized bill to submit to their insurance, which provide various degrees of coverage depending on plans.

When travelers return home, the Clinic also provides diagnosis and treatment of travel related illnesses, such as acute and chronic diarrhea, skin diseases, and parasitic diseases including malaria, schistosomiasis, filarial diseases, and Chagas disease.

Travel Clinic appointments

The Travel Clinic schedules most appointments within one or two weeks after patient inquiry. Patients should bring a list of their current prescriptions, medical and vaccine history, and itinerary plans to their office appointment.

Infectious Disease Appointments

Dr. Finkelsztein is an infectious diseases physician at Cayuga Health and is a teaching attending in their internal medicine residency program. He completed his internal medicine training at New York-Presbyterian Brooklyn Methodist Hospital, and subsequently an Infectious Diseases fellowship at New York-Presbyterian Hospital/Weill Cornell Medical Center. He sees patients at the Ithaca and Cortland offices of the Cayuga Center for Infectious Diseases. Call (607) 241-1118.

Eli Finkelsztein, MD

Bigger Red

Cornell Alum Jim Knowles Now Coordinator for Ohio State

By Steve Lawrence

The world of college football has taken on a life of its own in the sense that players can now make money, and coaches — especially head coaches and coordinators — are sometimes paid millions of dollars. Those watching Ohio State’ Buckeyes hover near the top of the college football food chain for the past couple of seasons have heard the name Jim Knowles often, and folks who have been around Cornell football for a few decades have been familiar with that name for four decades.

Knowles arrived at Cornell as a freshman in 1983, and after a solid playing career, stayed on as an assistant coach from 1988-96. It was during that time that Cornell shared two Ivy titles, and after leaving to sharpen his skill set as an assistant at Mississippi, Jim was hired as the Big Red’s head coach from 2004-09, From there, he became the Defensive Coordinator at Duke, took the same position at Oklahoma State, then was hired as Ohio State’s D.C. three seasons ago.

DISCOVERY PROGRAM

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were interviewed by Linda Cimakasky and Karen Friedeborn, and I was enrolled in the IYB’s College Discovery Program.”

“We went on trips to Maryland, where we visited the Naval Academy, the National Aquarium, and a Hard Rock Café. We also spent 7 days on the East Coast hitting Maine, Boston, and Pennsylvania.”

“CDP provided academic support and long-term mentoring. Lots of the mentors were college kids and we had Homework Clubs. Sometimes we did team building activities or would go hang out in a gym. We went to IC for music and to Cornell for STEM… If I didn’t like something in the program, my Dad would say ‘I want you to be in this program.’ So, I knew I was going to stay in this program.”

“I am still very close to the Ciferri family. I've helped Marilyn run her fall lacrosse tournaments at the Ithaca High School. I help at Goblin Games in October for girls k-12, and Turkey shoot in November for the boys K-12. Both tournaments have been going on for over 3 decades.”

It is a coveted coaching position, paying north of $2 million annually, and Knowles has earned it by any measure. According to sports journalist Pete Roussel, over the past dozen seasons, Knowles’ teams have compiled a 11.75 points per game average, the best among major college Defensive Coordinators. After defeating Texas 28-14 in the Cotton Bowl national semi-final, Ohio State faces Notre Dame in the NCAA national football championship game Monday, January 20.

Head Athletic Trainer Bernie DePalma told me, “Jim was one of the toughest players I worked with in my 43 years. I remember the time he broke his wrist, and played while wearing a cast.”

Bernie added, “I also recall a few years ago when (then-head coach) Dave Archer sent one of his assistants to one of Knowles’ coaching clinics, and called him that evening. Archer asked him how it went, and the assistant grumbled that it was well into the evening, and they were still doing Xs and Os on the chalkboard.”

“Over the years growing up I was nicknamed Rockett. But other than that, what my Father had in mind for raising me turned out like he planned. With lots of support and my own hard-earned selfdiscipline over time I got to know people from all walks of life in the rural and downtown Ithaca area. I got good grades while playing lots of sports. I attended Syracuse University, Onondaga Community College and St. Thomas Aquinas College and I played lacrosse at each college. Just like Marilyn had pushed me to do.”

“Looking back now, GIAC opened my eyes to how kids can be supported. So many kids have unstable family situations and deal with insecure income, housing, caretakers. From my own experience of receiving so much support from my father and so many fine community members, I understand what kids need... Not every kid has someone like my father and someone like Marilyn, in there coaching and supporting for the long run.”

“I was hired to work part-time with the College Discovery program in the Fall of 2019, right before Covid. Once everything opened back up, I applied for a full-time position with the College Discovery program,

DePalma then shared one more story, one conveying that his longtime friend is not an All Work/No Play kind of guy, saying “We were in a birthing class together, and he kept me laughing throughout the entire series of classes.” ●

As we watched the Cornell women take the ice at Lynah Rink on Saturday, my buddy Matt said, “It’s like two different games.”

He was referring to the men’s and women’s games at Lynah, and he was right. If one were to sit at center ice, surrounded by a couple of hundred of fans, it feels like a men’s game. It’s a lot quieter, and there is no roar when an opponent gets put into the boards, but at least it feels like it is well attended. Until you look around and see so many empty seats.

It has always been a mystery to me. The Big Red women are always among the best teams in all of collegiate hockey, the program churns out All-Americans year after year, and in fact, Cornell’s Izzy Daniel won the Patty Kazmaier Award, the women’s hockey equivalent of the Heisman Trophy in 2024.

On Saturday, the #5 nationally-ranked skaters from Colgate came to town, looking to avenge the 2-1 loss they had been

and in October 2024 I became the Interim Coordinator of the program, the leader of the program I spent so many years in as a kid.”

“Now I understand how wise it was for my Father to push me into joining the College Discovery Program, which I now lead. And already my team and I are making some fine tunings so that more kids who statistically may not get ahead in life (because of race, poverty, family challenges, mental health, homelessness), will have a shot at moving ahead.”

“Soon the College Discovery Program will be renamed and revised into the College and Career Discovery Program. Aside from college, there are so many outstanding programs in our community that promote trades and careers, and lots of great kids want to become welders or solar panel installers or become nurses or beauticians. And trades are also the ticket to good careers and are essential in our community.”

Stay tuned for Daquan’s next interview with more colorful details about the Ithaca Youth Bureau’s award-winning College and Career Discovery Program.

For more information contact: Drockett@cityofithaca.org

Once a Cornell football player and coach, Jim Knowles will take the sidelines Monday as defensive coordinator for Ohio State in the national championship.

handed on their home ice the day before. In that game, Rory Guilday’s two goals were the difference, and #6 Cornell's win was the first they had come away with at Colgate since 2020. On Saturday, the visiting team would prevail for the second straight game, as Colgate put four goals into the net to the Big Red’s two.

I will attribute the disappointing attendance to the fact that the students are still on break, and I will remind local fans that watching elite-level hockey at Cornell is still a very attainable experience. The Big Red women return to the ice this Friday for a 6 pm match up with Princeton, and again on Saturday at 3 pm versus Quinnipiac.

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with the U.S. immigration system during the event. “It’s a scary thing for many. Highlighting these stories is our way of emulating what Dr. King would do — raising awareness, concern, and involvement around these critical issues,” she said.

McBean-Clairborne encouraged the community to attend, participate in the workshops, and volunteer if possible. “We never turn away volunteers. Whether it’s setting up, cleaning up, or serving food, there’s always a way to help,” she said.

Registration for the event is preferred but not required. Interested participants can sign up at https://forms.gle/zcHcybVbGVo2SPDs9 or call (607) 272-3622.

“We’re excited to bring the community together to reflect, learn, and take action,” McBean-Clairborne said. “Dr. King’s words remind us that we are all connected, and no one should feel like an outsider.” For more information about the event, contact GIAC at (607) 272-3622.