January 17, 2024 by Ithaca Times

F R E E / J a n u a r y 1 7, 2 0 2 4 / V o l u m e X L I I I , N u m b er 7 2 / O u r 5 2 n d Y e a r

Online @ ITH ACA .COM

Remodeling History West End Diorama Memorializes a Forgotten Neighborhood PAGES 8-9

COUNTY PLANS FOR 2024 PAGE 3

NATURE CENTER CORNELL T-BURG FINE ARTS ENDING LIVE ANIMAL TAX-EXEMPT STATUS CONSERVATORY PROGRAM THREATENED 40TH ANNIVERSARY PAGE 4

PAGE 5

PAGE 13

TWO GREAT MINDS PAGE 14

SPONSORED CONTENT

12 Weeks to a Heart-Healthy Lifestyle in 2024 By Donna Sandidge, MD

ccording to New York State health department data, heart disease is a leading cause of death in Tompkins and nearby counties. There is plenty you can do in the months ahead in 2024 to reduce your risk and prolong your life. The Cayuga Center for Healthy Living can help you improve your heart health in 2024 through weight loss, exercise, managing stress or quitting tobacco. The Center’s team includes physicians, nurse practitioners, nurses, therapists, health educators and nutritionists. Donna Sandidge, MD Adopting heart-healthy habits over the next 12 weeks will start you on the road to better health and a longer life. Here’s your 12-week plan to better heart health. Week 1: Commit to getting fit. The American Heart Association reports that many deaths each year result from not getting regular physical activity. Try to start exercising 3 times a week. Check with your healthcare provider first if you haven’t been exercising regularly. Build to 150 minutes weekly of moderate aerobic activity. This is 30 minutes a day, 5 days a week. The more you can exercise, the greater the benefit to your health. Week 2: Stop smoking. You can have the most positive impact on your heart health by quitting smoking. It’s also one of the hardest changes to make, so sign up for a smoking cessation program at www.nysmokefree.com. Week 3: Eat less fat. Fat is the most concentrated form of energy and calories. Cutting back on fat helps you lose weight and reduces your risk for heart disease and some forms of cancer. Week 4: Limit how much saturated fats and trans fats you eat. Replacing saturated fats with unsaturated fats is linked to lower levels of total cholesterol and LDL (“bad”) cholesterol. It also lowers your risk for cardiovascular disease. Aim for getting less than 10% of your total daily calories from saturated fats. Also, remove trans fats from your diet. Trans fats are found in processed foods, such as margarines, snack foods, and prepared desserts. Choose lean cuts of meat and low-fat dairy and use oils instead of solid fats. Limit baked goods, processed meats, and fried foods. Week 5: Improve your cholesterol levels. Diets with lower levels of saturated fat are linked to a lower risk for cardiovascular disease. Check that your daily menu includes plenty of vegetables, fruits, whole grains, and low-fat dairy. Choose fish and skinless chicken instead of fatty cuts of red meat. Add beans (legumes) to your diet and use canola oil and olive oil in moderate amounts. Limit sweets, sugar-sweetened drinks, and alcohol.

2 The Ithaca Times / January 17 – 23, 2024

Week 6: Eat less salt (sodium). Ninety percent of Americans eat more sodium than they need. Most sodium comes from salt added during food processing. Salt added at the table and in cooking is only a small part of the total sodium that Americans consume. Experts advise that healthy adults limit their daily sodium to less than 2,300 mg. Leave the salt shaker off the table and eat fewer processed foods. Week 7: Eat more fiber found in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. Depending on your recommended daily calories, work up to 25-30 grams of dietary fiber daily. Week 8: De-stress. Stress increases your risk for heart disease and speeds its progression. People who are constantly angry or stressed have higher rises in blood pressure than people who aren’t. This constant unrest can damage the heart. Be aware of stress and find ways to control it through exercise, yoga, and meditation. Week 9: Become a savvy grocery shopper. Most foods include important nutrition information on their labels. Paying attention to these numbers will help make sure you eat healthy. Buy fresh ingredients and make meals from scratch. This helps you control how much fat, sugar, and salt go into the foods you are eating. Week 10: Find a new activity. This week, try a new sport or activity you enjoy. You might enjoy water-walking, circuit training, inline skating, or slide aerobics. Group fitness activities may be helpful. Week 11: Know what’s on the menu. When you eat out, try to eat as well as you do at home. Ask your server how food is prepared. Don’t order cream sauces, cheese sauces, or fried foods. Choose broiled, steamed, or stir-fried dishes. Be mindful of the calories, fats, and sugars in foods in restaurants. Week 12: Eat breakfast every day. Everyone needs energy first thing in the morning, yet many people skip breakfast. Have healthy foods ready to go.

For information on programs at The Cayuga Center for Healthy Living call (607) 252-3590 or go to cayugahealth.org/services/wellness

https://www.health.ny.gov/statistics/prevention/injury_prevention/information_ for_action/docs/2018-08_ifa_report.pdf

https://www.cdc.gov/physicalactivity/basics/adults/index.htm

III

https://www.fda.gov/food/nutrition-education-resources-materials/sodiumyour-diet#:~:text=However%2C%20most%20Americans%20eat%20too,1%20 teaspoon%20of%20table%20salt!

Newsline

VOL. XLIII / NO. 72 / January 17, 2024 Serving 47,125 readers week ly

Tompkins County Administrator Outlines Plans for Center of Government Building and Strategic Initiatives in 2024

By M at t D ough e rt y

ompkins County Administrator Lisa Holmes discussed ongoing conversations around the proposed center of government building and outlined ambitious plans for 2024 during a recent interview. Holmes said that the county has created the Downtown Facilities Committee to meet every month to make progress on the center of government project. The project aims to address space constraints for departments currently occupying leased spaces. Holmes stated, “We have several departments, five of them in leased space. We need to relocate these departments, including the county clerk and the District Attorney, to free up space for the expanding needs of the New York State court system.” According to Holmes, conversations about the project involve analyzing the needs of various departments, considering the synergy between offices, and identifying suitable buildings. “We’re looking at size, square footage needed in the departments, and considering which buildings can accommodate them,” Holmes said. She added, “The goal is to provide efficient services and benefit from the co-location of relevant offices.” Regarding the location of the center of government building, Holmes said, “We’re looking at the 300 block of North Tioga Street, where the county purchased key buildings in 2021, [such as] the former Key Bank building and the adjacent professional building.” Holmes says this

decision set the stage for the project by providing a clear direction for the county’s administrative future. In response to questions about the timeline for construction, Holmes said, “That’s the million-dollar question.” She continued saying that the County is “aiming to issue a Request for Qualifications (RFQ) for development this spring, followed by the schematic deTompkins County Administrator Lisa Holmes. (Photo: File) sign process throughout 2024. move aligns with the county’s commitment Construction is anticipated in 2026 and to transparency and accessibility. 2027, with potential occupancy in 2028.” Holmes also highlighted the upcoming Holmes also shed light on another Rapid Medical Response Program through significant development, the sale of the the Department of Emergency Response. historic Red House on 408 North High “This program aims to assist municipal Street. “We are working with a real estate partners with EMS service and basic life agent, and there are offers currently under support, ultimately improving response consideration,” Holmes said. time throughout the county,” she explained. As the interview shifted focus to the Regarding the strategic plan, Holmes broader goals for Tompkins County in said, “We’ve drafted broad goals, objectives, 2024, Holmes said the county is finalizand action steps based on community ining its strategic plan, involving extensive put. A consultant is working to compile this community input. “We’re excited about the launch and implementation of the stra- into a draft, which will soon be presented for further engagement and input.” tegic plan in 2024. We’re actively seeking Holmes acknowledged the dynamic further community input and collaboranature of the upcoming years, saying, tion with the legislature and county staff,” “2028 might seem distant, but it’ll be here Holmes said. before you know it.” With the center of Additionally, the county is set to revamp government project on the horizon and its online presence. “We’ll be looking at an array of strategic initiatives in the redesigning and launching the county’s pipeline, Tompkins County is poised for website in 2024 to engage the public with a busy year ahead. our services better,” Holmes said. This

T a k e

N o t e

X Study Part Time at Cornell University this Spring Registration for the Par t-time Study Program is open until January 22, 2024 for visiting students. Undergraduate and graduate students as well as any other interested adult can learn from world-renowned faculty members, ex p l o re a n e w i nte re s t, e n h a n ce t h e i r resume, or strengthen professional skills during Cornell University’s spring semester,

which runs Januar y 22 to May 18, 2024. Students can selec t from thousands of regular on-campus and online Cornell courses in the arts, business, engineering, science, technology, and more. Participants study alongside Cornell undergraduate and graduate students. On-campus students have access to university libraries and other facilities. Grades and credits for both on-

campus and online courses will be recorded on an official Cornell transcript. For more information about this program, including registration dates, tuition and fees, program policies and more, visit parttimestudy.cornell.edu or email cusce@ cornell.edu. Part-time Study is a program of Cornell University's School of Continuing Education (SCE).

ON THE COVER:

Chemug Executive Kim Hazelton, Historic Ithaca Director Susan Holland, and West End diorama creator David Fogel stand in front of the diorama at its new location in the Chemug Canal Trust Company building.

NEWSLINE ��3-5 LETTERS TO THE EDITOR �� 6 SURROUNDED BY REALITY �� 7 SPORTS �� 12 ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT �� 13 FILM �� 14 CLASSIFIED �� 16-17 TIMES TABLE �� 18-19

ON T HE WE B Visit our website at www.ithaca.com for more news, arts, sports and photos. Call us at 607-277-7000 M a t t D o u g h e r t y , M a n a g i n g E d i t o r , x 1217 E d i t o r @ I t h a c aTi m e s . c o m Ch r i s I b e r t, C a l en da r Ed i to r , A r t s @ I t h a c aTi m e s . c o m M a t t D o u g h e r t y , N e w s R e p o r t e r , x 1225 R e p o r t e r @ I t h a c aTi m e s . c o m Kenneth Waterhouse, Photographer Ste ve L awrence, Spo rts Co lumn ist St e v e S p o r t sD u d e @ g m a i l .co m J i m B i l i n s k i , P u b l i s h e r , x 1210 j b i l i n s k i @ I t h a c aTi m e s . c o m L a r r y H o c h b e r g e r , A s s o c i a t e P u b l i s h e r , x 1214 l a r r y@ I t h a c aTi m e s . c o m F r ee l a n ce r s : Barbara Adams, Stephen Burke, G. M Burns, Alyssa Denger, Jane Dieckmann, Charley Githler, Ross Haarstad, Steve Lawrence, Marjorie Olds, Henry Stark, and Arthur Whitman THE ENTIRE CONTENTS OF THE ITHACA TIMES ARE C O P Y R I G H T © 2 02 3, B Y N E W S K I I N C . 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 Street, Ithaca, NY 14850 607-277-7000, FAX 607277-1012, MAILING ADDRESS is PO Box 27, Ithaca, NY 14851. The Ithaca Times was preceded by the Ithaca New Times (1972–1978) and The Good Times Gazette (1973–1978), combined in 1978. Founder Good Times Gazette: Tom Newton

January 17 – 23, 2024 / The Ithaca Times

INQUIRING Nature Center Ends Live Animal Program as PRI Funding Issues Continue PHOTOGRAPHER T N e w s l i n e

By Ke nne th Wate rhou se

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE WINTER ACTIVITY?

“Cocoa while watching the kids play in the snow.” – Bethanny C.

“Being a kid at heart. Snowmen, sleigh riding etc.” – Sherry Stearns L.

“Playing the violin or reading a good book.” – Christina D.

By M at t D ough e rt y

he Paleontological Research Institution (PRI) is grappling with funding challenges stemming from delays in philanthropic gifts from several long-time donors. This has resulted in the institution implementing a strategic downsizing plan to ensure its long-term sustainability. Established 91 years ago, PRI has played a crucial role in paleontology and Earth science. The institution’s renowned fossil collection, education programs, and public venues, including the Museum of the Earth and Cayuga Nature Center, now face the impact of financial uncertainties. Amanda Smith, a spokesperson for PRI, provided details on the organization’s funding issues. According to Smith, PRI typically operates on a $3 million annual budget derived from a diverse set of revenue streams, including philanthropy, museum and nature center admissions and programs, merchandise sales, memberships, and grants. Smith added that several million dollars in pledged gifts from an anonymous group of donors who have supported PRI for over 20 years have been delayed, creating a significant gap in the expected budget for the current fiscal year. She could not disclose any specific information about the donors or the reason for the delay.

Tompkins County G.I.V.E. Program Yields Arrests & Seizures

T “Ice fishing.” – Luke T.

“Sitting by a heater.” – Joann W.

The downsizing plan encompasses several measures to streamline operations, reduce costs, and refocus limited resources on PRI’s core mission. One significant aspect of the downsizing plan involves staffing adjustments and reducing the organization’s workforce. Smith said, “To date, 5 to 7 employThe Cayuga Nature Center has announced that it will be ending its live animal program as the organization struggles ees have been laid off, with funding issues. (Photo: Cayuga Nature Center) with additional staff seeing reduced work will remain open and accessible throughhours.” Smith emphasized these measures out the winter months. At the Museum, are intended to ensure long-term sustainhours have remained unchanged, but ability and are not permanent cuts — though the timeline for rehiring is unclear, some public programs have been reduced for now. In addition, summer camp, as pending receipt of the delayed gifts. well as school and group programs, are In addition to personnel changes, PRI still planned. is evaluating its current exhibitions and Operational efficiency improvements are programs at the Museum of the Earth and another crucial component of PRI’s downCayuga Nature Center. The goal is to temporarily reducing program offerings to cut sizing strategy. The institution has already initiated measures to enhance efficiency expenses while preserving the institution’s and save costs. This includes addressing long-term sustainability. According to Smith, the Cayuga Nature energy usage, facility maintenance, and Center Lodge is currently closed for the season, though trails and the treehouse Contin u ed on Page 15

By Sta ff R e p ort

o combat violent crime, the Tompkins County Sheriff 's Office initiated the Gun Involved Violence Elimination (G.I.V.E.) program in July 2023 to address shots-fired incidents and violent crime in the City of Ithaca. The program is funded by a grant from the New York State Division of Criminal Justice Services, which created a task force comprising members from the Sheriff 's Office, Ithaca Police Department, New York State Police, Tompkins County Probation, and New York State Parole. From July 2023 through December 2023, the task force led to numerous arrests of known violent offenders. The team successfully removed five unlawfully possessed firearms, approximately 134

4 The Ithaca Times / January 17 – 23, 2024

grams of meth, 10 grams of heroin, 111 grams of cocaine, 9 grams of hallucinogenic mushrooms, 7 grams of Fentanyl, 64 Xanax pills, and 9 Oxycontin pills from the streets. According to a statement from the Sheriff ’s Office, this effort targeted the intersection of violent crime and drug dealing and contributed to a significant reduction in shots-fired calls. The Sheriff ’s Office says the program’s impact has continued into 2024. On January 11th, 2024, Sheriff 's deputies observed a vehicle with a Suspended Registration leaving Yazzy’s Market. The ensuing pursuit and arrest of the driver, Ramal B. Abdullah, uncovered 32 individually packaged baggies of Methamphetamine, 16 baggies of Heroin, and $2,613 in cash. Abdullah faces charges, including unlawful fleeing a Police Officer and Criminal

Possession of Controlled Substances. Two days later, on January 13, 2024, deputies stopped a vehicle with a suspended registration, leading to the discovery of Barbara J. Barber and Eric Walker. The subsequent search revealed a variety of controlled substances, including crack cocaine, methamphetamine, heroin, and cocaine, along with $1,323 in cash. Barber and Walker were charged with Criminal Possession of Controlled Substances and held for arraignment. The investigation took an unexpected turn on January 14, 2024, when deputies executed a search warrant at Walker’s residence. The search uncovered two illegally possessed firearms and what appeared to be an alleged meth lab. Authorities are continuing the investigation, with additional charges pending against Walker.

UPS&DOWNS

N e w s l i n e

Cornell Faces Tax-Exempt Status Threat Over Campus Anti-Semitism

By M at t D ough e rt y

he tax-exempt status of elite universities like Cornell could be at risk, but not for the reasons you might

think. The Ways and Means Committee in the United States House of Representatives, led by Missouri Congressman Jason Smith, has warned several elite universities, including Harvard, UPenn, MIT, and Cornell, about the looming possibility of revoking their coveted tax-exempt status. The conversation has been triggered by reports of increasing anti-Semitism on their campuses in the aftermath of the Israeli military’s bombing of Gaza in response to the Oct. 7 Hamas attacks on Israel. Committee Chair Jason Smith expressed concern over the universities’ “lack of an appropriate response” and insufficient support for Jewish people and students. In a letter dated Jan. 10, Smith outlined the federal benefits these universities enjoy, such as tax-exempt status, federal grants, and support for student loan assistance. Smith emphasizes that these benefits come with specific standards, including compliance with relevant anti-discrimination laws. Direct quotes from the letter highlight

Ups

Smith’s disapproval of the universities’ responses to the Hamas attacks and their support for Jewish students, which he describes as “disappointing” and “lackluster.” He points out the failure of former Harvard President Claudine Gay, former UPenn President Liz Magill, and MIT PresiMissouri Congressman and Chair of the Ways & Means Committee in the House of Representatives, Jason Smith, is threatening to revoke Cornell’s tax-exempt dent Sally Kornbluth to status for not doing enough to combat anti-semitism on campus. (Photo: File) unequivocally condemn hypothetical calls for Smith lists the arrest of Cornell Unigenocide against the Jewish people during versity student Patrick Dai, who posted recent congressional testimonies. The violent antisemitic threats online followaftermath of Gay’s testimony resulted in ing October 7, as additional supporting her resigning. evidence that antisemitism is increasing Smith’s letter also mentioned a testion college campuses. mony from Cornell University student In his letter, Smith says that condemnTalia Dror, who told the Committee that ing terrorism against Israel and address“students, professors, and administrators at Cornell celebrated the massacre of inno- ing anti-Semitism should be easy, stating, cent civilians.” The letter continues, saying, “Protecting Jewish students on campus as “While Cornell made firm statements on a you protect other students should not be a challenge. This is not that hard.” variety of topics and incidents in the past, The letter goes on to request that the university was silent when it came to the four universities provide additional condemning explicit antisemitism and endorsements of terrorism under the guise of free speech.” Contin u ed on Page 10

Tompkins Community Bank Taking Part in 2024 Home-Buyer Dream Program

By M at t D ough e rt y

ompkins Community Bank has recently announced that it will participate in the 2024 Homebuyer Dream Program (HDP). The program aims to assist eligible first-time homebuyers in achieving their homeownership dreams. The program is facilitated through the Federal Home Loan Bank of New York (FHLBNY). It offers substantial support by providing up to $20,000 in assistance for qualifying individuals making their inaugural entrance into the housing market. Vice President and Residential Mortgage Lending Manager at Tompkins Community Bank, Stacy Merrill, stated, “As a community bank, helping people thrive in

the areas we serve is at the heart of everything we do.” Acknowledging the significance of homeownership as a substantial personal milestone, Merrill underscored the numerous benefits, including wealth accumulation and stability, associated with purchasing a home. The Homebuyer Dream Program is positioned to enhance access to homeownership opportunities and alleviate potential obstacles related to down payments and closing costs. Merrill expressed the bank’s honor in being part of this transformative process, emphasizing how the HDP can significantly contribute to making homeownership more accessible. To be eligible for the HDP, prospective borrowers must meet specific criteria. They must be in good standing with the FHLBNY, qualify as first-time homebuy-

ers, and have a household income at or below 80% of the Area Median Income for the county where the home will be purchased. Additionally, successful applicants must complete a homeownership counseling program, emphasizing the commitment to ensuring informed and responsible homeownership. For those interested in exploring this opportunity, the bank encourages individuals to visit their nearest branch and connect with one of their experienced mortgage consultants. Additional details and updates can be found on the bank’s official website at www.tompkinsbank. com. The application window for the Homebuyer Dream Program is open from now until August 30, 2024, or until funds are exhausted.

Gasoline prices in New York have experienced a notable decrease over the past week, with a drop of 3.5 cents per gallon, bringing the average to $3.23/g, according to GasBuddy's recent survey of 6,118 stations in the state.

Downs

Last week's winter storm left 3,805 Tompkins County residents without power for several hours.

HEARD&SEEN Heard

Cornell Cooperative Extension Tompkins County will be offering Master Composter volunteer training this spring! Classes will be held on Thursday evenings from February 15th to May 2nd at the cooperative extension in Ithaca. Learn more at ccetompkins.org/mc and apply by Monday, January 29th. Contact Adam Michaelides at 607-272-2292 or acm1@ cornell.edu

Seen

On January 14, 2024, Sheriff's Office deputies responded to the 1000 block of Harford Slaterville Road in the Town of Dryden for a reported Burglary in progress. Arriving deputies were involved in a short foot pursuit before capturing the suspect and identifying him as Alfred W. Morse, age 35, of 398 Buffalo Road, Brooktondale, NY. Morse was held in the Tompkins County Jail where he is awaiting arraignment in the Sheriff's Office Centralized Arraignment Court.

IF YOU CARE TO RESPOND to something in this column, or suggest your own praise or blame, write news@ithacatimes. com, with a subject head “U&D.”

QUESTION OF THE WEEK

Are you concerned about the amount of debt held by the City of Ithaca? 44.0% Yes, f iscal responsibility

important. 28.0% No, doesn’t impact me . 28.0% I don’t care, just f ix the potholes. N ext Week ’s Q uestion :

Who will win the 2024 election for President of the United States? Visit ithaca.com to submit your response.

January 17 – 23, 2024 / The Ithaca Times

The Talk at

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR Questioning Opening Date of Crunch Fitness Gym

“

I’m writing with the question of The Crunch Fitness Ithaca Gym & It’s opening date. It’s been advertised for a while now with the sign in the front window of the old bed bath & beyond building. I’m convinced that there may be no opening at all. Being that’s it been a while since It’s inception. There hasn’t been any movement. I’d like to know if there’s any way possible to find out it’s opening date or if there’s even going to be an opening date at all.” — Samantha Simpson

Response to “Tompkins County G.I.V.E. Program Yields Arrests and Seizures”

“

Isn’t the real problem that the Ithaca police department is way under staffed and demoralized? Post George Floyd, wasn’t there a huge increase in early retirements and a sharp decrease in new

recruits? After all, who in their right mind wants to be a cop anymore. The public does not properly respect them. And for the cops who remain on the job, what’s the motivation to do a great job? Responding slowly and passively is the way to go. Actually doing this critical job energetically (and bravely — let’s remember cops risk their lives on our behalf) might very well land cops in prison. Better to sit in the car and wait for early retirement.” — Steven Baginski

Responses to “Tompkins Community Bank Taking Part in 2024 Home-Buyer Dream Program”

“

They just want you paying them interest so they can twiddle their thumbs and collect your hard earned money every month. Don't enable banks who have a license to essentially print money via fractional reserve lending. Instead, just live out of your car and stay warm in the winter with an electric sleeping bag until you can buy a small property with cash. Get a YMCA membership and take hot showers there. Save you money at a 100% reserve bank or as cash. Banks aren't even paying much interest anymore anyway.” — Richard Ballantyne

GUEST OPINION

Governor Hochul Signs Components of NY HEAT Act By P et e r Ba r dagl io

he Tompkins County Climate Protection Initiative commends Governor Hochul for taking significant steps necessary to reduce energy costs for New Yorkers. By adopting key components of the NY HEAT Act, especially eliminating subsidies for new gas hookups that will save existing customers over $200 million each year, she has kept her promise to help keep New Yorkers’ hardearned dollars in their pockets. We also applaud her proposals to change the Public Service Law to enable the decarbonization of entire neighborhoods when costly gas pipes reach the end of their life and provisions to improve energy affordability for low-income households through access to renewable electricity, renewable heating, and energy savings.

There is much more to be done, however, if she wants to help our state survive the worst impacts of the climate crisis. NY Renews’ Climate, Jobs, & Justice Package provides several excellent solutions to protect the climate and reduce energy costs, and we urge support of the following: • The full NY HEAT Act will help lower household energy bills • The Climate Change Superfund Act will force the state’s polluting fossil fuel corporations to begin cleaning up the mess they’ve made, raising $3 billion a year for community resiliency programs • The Just Energy Transition Act will help New York transition the state’s fossil fuel facilities to renewable energy We call on the Assembly and Senate to include these initiatives in their onehouse budgets and push for their passage this session.

GUEST OPINION Contin u ed on Page 14

Ithaca Has a Parking Problem By C e l i a C l e m e n t

here is a parking problem in Ithaca. The fact remains that the city of Ithaca’s insistence that downtown shoppers pay for parking is a serious deterrent resulting in revenue loss for downtown businesses and a migration away from downtown shopping. Here is a quote from the Martha Lavine’s letter which was published in the Ithaca Times January 10th, issue regarding the kiosk meters: “… I hate them. Instead of just putting coins in the meter, you have to remember your license plate number and find the payment kiosk on the street. You put in your credit card and have to answer all kinds of questions and press all kinds of buttons and if you have any problems, you hold up the other parkers behind you waiting to use the kiosk. And stand in the rain. So I decided no, I am not going to the [downtown] glasses store.” Ms. Lavine’s sentiment reflects the sentiment of many. People avoid down-

6 The Ithaca Times / January 17 – 23, 2024

town services because they dislike having to pay when there are so many other options which don’t involve paying for parking and negotiating meters. People resent having to walk around to find the kiosk and waste time with these meters. I resent having to predict the amount of time I will be spending. If I pay too little, I will have to refill the meter or get fined, and if I spend too much, I have wasted my money. The city of Ithaca is shooting itself in the foot. Merchants are leaving. I counted 12 empty storefronts on the Commons. We have an increasingly decaying unattractive downtown which ultimately deters businesses from investing in empty storefronts. As shops close, Ithaca residents conduct their business elsewhere and the city loses sales tax revenue. As shopper’s habits shift away from downtown shopping, it will become increasingly difficult to lure them back. I do have a suggestion. Would the city consider offering two parking free days (Wednesday and Friday) each week?

GUEST OPINION

SURROUNDED BY REALITY

High School Robotics Team Kicks off Build Season

What a Difference a Century Makes

By C a r ly H a r e , PR O ff ic e r , C ode R e d Robot ic s

By C h a r l ey G i t h l e r

thaca High School’s FIRST (For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology) robotics team Code Red Robotics has started its 24th season! On Saturday, January 6, 68 students and 12 mentors met in the IHS York Lecture Hall, to watch the live reveal of this year's FIRST Robotics Competition game, “Crescendo”. “It was really exciting getting to see everyone's reaction to the new challenge, and it's cool to think that thousands of other teams around the world were watching it with us.” shared Helina Kim, a first-year member of the team. This year’s game, titled Crescendo, consists of grabbing, placing, and shooting orange rings, or “notes” into two different goals at both ends of the field called the amp and speaker. As in all FIRST Robotics Competitions, each team is partnered with two other teams’ robots on either the red or blue alliance. The Code Red drive team must work with its alliance partners to win games and score ranking points. Every game starts with a 15-second autonomous period before the robots are driven and controlled by the students for the remaining 2 minutes and 15 seconds. During the last leg of the match robots race to get to their team’s stage and lift themselves onto a chain to earn extra points. “We’re definitely going to have our work cut out for us this year. With all of the different components of the game, every subteam will have a lot on their plate,” said CAD (Computer Aided Design) head Everett Groat, “but I’m excited to see what designs we come up with. It looks like a very fun challenge.” Saturday, January 6 was the official start of Code Red’s build season. For the next six weeks, students and mentors will be working together in the IHS technology rooms to design, build, program, and test their new robot. The team will be playing at two competitions this year, Finger Lakes Regional in Rochester (March 14-16) and Tech Valley Regional in Albany (March 21-23). In order to manage the vast amount of work that

goes into creating a robot, students split themselves into different subteams, each focusing on its own crucial part of the building process. “After seeing so much enthusiasm from the whole team today, I can’t wait to see how the build season will unfold,” expressed Build Team Manager Jan Vanek-Raphaelidis. Every year Code Red invites other Ithaca-based STEAM organizations to participate in the Code Red Open House. This event brings in hundreds of kids and their families, free of charge, to experience hands-on STEAM-related games and activities. Groups such as the Sciencenter, the Cornell Society of Women Engineers, and other technology clubs at the middle and high school level set up booths, interactive demonstrations, and experiments for the attendees to take part in. The open house is one of numerous ways Code Red can engage and connect with the community, as well as help foster the younger generation's love of STEAM. This year it will take place Saturday, February 3, from 1-4 pm in the Ithaca High School tech wings and cafeteria, the open house is an amazing educational opportunity for all kids within and beyond the Ithaca community. Code Red is led by: President Jennifer Zhao, Build Team Manager (Vice President) Jan Vanek-Raphaelidis, Treasurer Celene Sahoo, Administrator Shaine Wei, Public Relations Officer Carly Hare, and Community Outreach Coordinator Alex Elia. FIRST Team Code Red Robotics thanks its sponsors for continued support: BorgWarner Morse TEC, BAE Systems, Vector Magnetics, Sciarabba Walker, Cornell Bowers College of Computing & Information Science, Cornell College of Engineering, Cornell Institute for Computational Sustainability, Duthie Orthodontics, Finger Lakes Consulting, PLLC, Incodema, the IHS Class of 1951, Tompkins Community Bank, ICSD, ICSD Board of Education, Ithaca High Contin u ed on Page 15

hen I was eight years old, the Boy Scouts converted the boys’ locker room at my high school into a haunted house for Halloween, and as part of the activities at Jay Goodspeed’s birthday party all six of us invitees were brought there. I remember standing at the entrance, feeling that this was going to be way scarier and traumatizing than I could handle. (I was right.) That’s exactly how I feel as we skulk into 2024. The Election, an ex-president facing 91 felony counts in four jurisdictions, a climate spiraling toward disaster, breakdancing in the Olympics… I’m really trying to resist the tendency to think that every year is worse than the previous one. Of course, if that were true then 1924 would have been better in 100 ways than 2024 promises to be. I decided to have a look at a-hundred-years-ago January to get some sense if that might be the case. Ithaca Journal, January 22, 1924: Local offices of the Ku Klux Klan opened on the second floor of the Osborn Block on East State Street (where Center Ithaca is now). That’s a little jarring to modern eyes. It must have been jarring to some 1924 eyes, too, because they vacated the premises a week later after the rental agent was inundated with protests. And yet, the very next night a burning cross, 20 feet tall and eight feet wide, made of two-by-fours soaked in gasoline, was lit on West Hill. It was located on Hector Street (known also since 1930 as Route 79) across from where Campbell Avenue intersects it. West Hill was a lot less treed then, and the cross was visible to most of the city. This was the height of the nationwide 1920s resurgence of the Klan (around 5 million members in a population of 114 million), and the 1920s Klan had an expanded sense of mission. They hated everybody: immigrants, Jews, Catholics, anyone of color, bootleggers, socialists, jazz musicians. I have no way of knowing for sure, but it seems like more than a coincidence that the cross was burned on property occupied by an Italian immigrant with a history of brushes with the law. I won’t use his last name but Angelo, and his cousin Attilio, had gotten into

trouble the year before for running a substantial bootlegging operation out of Attilio’s residence on Esty Street. Angelo had also been charged with assault in 1916. This was a time when there was considerable prejudice against Italian immigrants. Ithaca saw its Italian immigrant population grow from 52 in 1900 to over 500 in 1930. People still blamed “Italian workers” for the 1903 typhoid epidemic in the city that killed 82 people. The Ithaca Journal routinely referred to immigrant citizens by their ethnicity. The headline for Angelo’s 1916 incident: “Razor Flashed in Row Among Italians”. Angelo got into another fracas soon after the cross-burning, on February 4th, resulting the next day in a 90-day sentence and an admonition from the judge to “get out of town”. The wheels of justice whirred pretty quickly back then. He apparently followed the judge’s suggestion and relocated to Elmira on his release. 1924 was also a presidential election year, though you might not guess that from looking at the January newspapers. The primary system was relatively new and only in 12 states held between March and June. The campaigning didn’t start until after the conventions in June and July in that Golden Age. Also, there was a third party candidate. Dismayed by the conservatism of both major parties, the Progressive Party fielded Robert LaFollette. (He would get 17% of the popular vote nationwide, 4% in Tompkins County.) Maybe we could get a third party this year, perhaps someone under a thousand years old. Know what the average age of the major party candidates was in 1924? 52. It must not have seemed like a highstakes, victory-or-doom, oh-my-God contest like the thrilling ones we have today. 1924’s presidential election had the lowest per-capita turnout since records have been kept. I learned nothing. The past is a foreign country. Rope climbing was an Olympic sport in 1924. Still, if we get to the end of this year and nobody’s ignited a 20-foottall burning cross within city limits, we could call it a win for 2024. Might be wise to set the bar just that low.

January 17 – 23, 2024 / The Ithaca Times

Historic West End Diorama Finds a New Home By M att Dougherty

fter Historic Ithaca approved his project proposal in 1978, Ithaca native and former Mayor of Freeville, David Fogel, began the process of constructing an impressively detailed diorama of Ithaca’s West End exactly the way it looked on October 9, 1960 — before the Army Corps of Engineers flood control project was put in place. The project took Fogel eight years and thousands of hours of labor before it was finally completed in 1986. Initially, the project was estimated to cost slightly over $500, but it exceeded thousands of dollars when finished. The West End diorama depicts an area of the city formerly known as ‘The Rhine,’ which was once called home by hundreds of working-class families and small businesses. In referring to the area, Fogel said, “It was both literally and figuratively the other side of the tracks, set apart from the rest of the city.” Fogel was inspired to create the diorama to memorialize a neighborhood that was “marginalized” and “wiped out” by the flood Th e d i o r a m a i n c l u d e s a r e n d e r i n g o f i t s n e w h o m e , t h e o l d L e h i g h Va l l e y R a i l r o a d S tat i o n l o c at e d at 8 0 6 We s t B u f fa l o S t r e e t, e x ac t ly t h e way control channel project. According to Fogel, i t l o o k e d i n t h e 1 9 6 0 ’s . ( P h o t o : K e n n e t h Wat e r h o u s e) the construction of the flood control channel displaced the area’s population while providing them with a meager amount of after a catastrophic flood in 1935 that put six streets cut off by the channel was diverted Despite the challenges, Fogel has been determined to find the diorama’s new home compensation in return. A photo that once most of the city underwater, Fogel said that along this one bridge. Following nearly 30 years of intense de- and preserve the rich history of the Rhine. hung above the diorama stated, “Residents the construction of the flood control chanFollowing its completion in 1986, the received relatively short notice to vacate nel was a necessity. For the last several de- bates, “The Octopus’ was finally untangled their houses, and many felt they were paid cades, Fogel said, “It has seemed to do the when New York State constructed a second diorama was on display at the DeWitt Historical Society’s trick,” he added that while Ithaca still has bridge as part of below market value for their properties.” former location a flooding problem, it’s the state’s Route Community instituin the Clinton nowhere near as ex- 96 realignment tions like the West Side House. However, treme as it was before project completHouse, a meeting place that home didn’t ed in the midthe channel was built. for clubs, dances, and last long, and “That much-needed 1990s. Following other kinds of recreait was stored in another remedy came at the ex- that, tion, and Beebe Chapel the basement of pense of a marginalized bridge connectwere not saved from the Fogel’s parent’s but close-knit commuing Buffalo and area’s destruction. In tohome for nearly nity that was uprooted Cliff Streets put tal, 185 parcels of land a decade. The diand dispersed with scant the final nail in were acquired by the orama found anoctopus’s notice and paltry com- the city and state, and 31 — David Fogel other home at pensation for their taken coffin. houses were demolish— David Fogel the Tompkins Over the homes,” Fogel said. ed in the neighborhood County Public While the construction of the flood con- years, the dioraas part of the flood control project. The diLibrary in the orama is now the only way to get a glimpse trol channel addressed the flooding problem, ma has strugglof the vibrant working-class community it spawned the notorious intersection known ed to find a consistent home and has repeat- late 1990s, which was also short-lived. After another stretch in storage, the dithat the area once was before it was forever locally as ‘The Octopus,’ which caused mas- edly been put into storage, where it sits colchanged to help the city deal with an ongo- sive traffic congestion at the West State Street lecting dust from public view. The diorama orama found what was hoped to be a permabridge. The West State St. bridge was the only is challenging to house since it gobbles up nent location on the second floor of the Aling flooding problem. The loss of the neighborhood was dev- structure built over the flood control channel 8×8 feet of floor space, and places like the ternatives Federal Credit Union building. It astating for those who called it home, but at the time of construction, and traffic from History Center haven’t found room for it. was on display to the public in that location

“It was both literally and figuratively the other side of the tracks, set apart from the rest of the city.”

8 The Ithaca Times / January 17 – 23, 2024

“That much-needed remedy to Ithaca’s flooding problem came at the expense of a marginalized but close-knit community that was uprooted and dispersed with scant notice and paltry compensation for their taken homes.”

the next five years, with the potential for an extension. Hazelton told the Ithaca Times she was “very pleased when David reached out to Chemung Canal for the potential to display his beautiful diorama at our Ithaca Staton branch.” Hazelton states, “The diorama has been a part of our community for many years and is a true depiction of the West End of Ithaca. As the Station is also an iconic building in the community and part of the West End of Ithaca, C h e m u g E x e c u t i v e K i m H a z e lt o n , H i s t o r i c It h ac a D i r e c t o r S u s a n H o l l a n d , a n d d i o r a m a it made perfect sense to house the c r e at o r Dav i d F o g e l s ta n d i n f r o n t o f t h e diorama at the Bank branch.” We s t E n d d i o r a m a i n s i d e t h e C h e m u g C a n a l Hazelton added, “We receive b u i l d i n g . ( P h o t o : K e n n e t h Wat e r h o u s e) hundreds of visitors yearly who want to tour the train station and for 16 years, from 2003 to 2019, playing the diorama inside the view the artifacts, and now the diwhen AFCU renovated the build- bank. Following their conversa- orama will be part of our commuing to make space for their Free tion, Hazleton and her colleagues nity presence there.” Director of Historic Ithaca, Suviewed the diorama in storage Tax Preparation Program. san Holland, said: “The diAfter being moved out orama, crafted by David of its longtime location in Fogel and sponsored by HisAFCU, the diorama sat in A v iew of the dior a m a depicti ng the old Bebe toric Ithaca in the late 1970s C h a p e l , a c o m m u n i t y h u b t h at p r ov i d e d r e l i g i o u s storage inside a building and early 1980s, is such an s e rv i c e s a n d e d u c at i o n f o r w o m e n a n d c h i l d r e n . on the banks of the CayuTh e c h a p e l wa s d e s t r oy e d d u r i n g t h e f l o o d important visual representaga Inlet near the Newman c o n t r o l p r o j e c t. ( P h o t o : K e n n e t h Wat e r h o u s e) tion about the City of Ithaca Municipal Golf Course for and places like it.” Holland nearly four years, collectcontinued, “As we watch our too, and so many people will see life in a way that’s tangible and ing dust once again out of buildings disappear from it now. Glad we could make this broadly accessible to the public.” public view. However, the — David Fogel our cities, towns, and rural work, and thanks to Kim Hazelton, Fogel added that he would be at diorama had to be moved areas, a scale model of what Anders Tomson and the team at the bank every Friday between from the building on the 1/19 and 3/29 from 2-4 pm to life was and looked like is Chemung Canal Trust.” waterfront because it is Fogel said, “The project was show the display and answer any scheduled to be demolished as and agreed to display it in the easy for anyone to feel, taste, and part of the ongoing City Harbor bank. Fogel signed a contract get a true sense of our past. Hav- an outgrowth of my lifelong in- questions from the public about with the bank stipulating that the ing it at Chemung Canal Trust’s terest in local history, and of my the pre-flood-control West End Development project. When Fogel first spoke to the diorama would be on display for Station branch embodies that past, desire to bring that history to neighborhood. Ithaca Times about being required to relocate the diorama in August 2022, he said the ideal location would be inside the Chemung Canal Trust Company building on West Buffalo Street. Fogel says that he has wanted the diorama displayed in this location since he first created it but that there wasn’t enough room to display it there at the time because it was a restaurant. According to Fogel, the Chemung building is the perfect location to display the diorama because “it’s a historic building on the National Register of Historic Places, and it’s located in the heart of the old West End neighborhood.” When Fogel found out that he would need to relocate the diorama once again, he reached out to Chemung’s Executive Kim HazelA v i e w s h ow i n g t h e w o r k i n g c l a s s n e i g h b o r h o o d k n ow n a s “ Th e R h i n e” f r o m t h e s l o p e s o f ton, who is also president of HisWe s t H i l l , e x ac t ly t h e way i t l o o k e d b e f o r e t h e f l o o d c o n t r o l p r o j e c t. ( P h o t o : M at t D o u g h e r t y) toric Ithaca, to inquire about dis-

“The Chemung building is the perfect location to display the diorama because it’s a historic building…located in the heart of the old West End neighborhood.”

January 17 – 23, 2024 / The Ithaca Times

TAX-EXEMPT STATUS contin u ed from page 5

Loaves & Fishes Extends Deep Appreciation to Our Sponsors, Potters, Restaurants and Wineries, Whose Support Made Empty Bowls a Resounding Success! Your Commitment to Helping Us Feed People in Need Makes a Diﬀerence Every Day.

Sponsors

Potters

Premier Gary Bercow Tompkins Community Bank Laura Burch Pottery Inn on Columbia Julia e Dean Triad Foundation The Clay School Leadership Betsy Graham Wegmans Cayuga Medical Center Judy Hoﬀman Partner Shawn Hull True Insurance Perri LoPinto Pottery Visions Federal Credit Terry Marcus Design Union Chemung Canal Trust Sharon Nelson Company Gary Rith Pottery Fingerlakes Wealth Front Porch Pottery Management by Tom Roach Advocate Guthrie Jenny Ross Cornell University Jaques Schickel Crown Construction Diane Sullivan Design Triphammer Laundromat Giotto Zampognia CFCU Federal Credit Union Friend Cayuga Landscape Co. The William Henry Miller Inn Dermatology Associates of Ithaca

Food Beacon Events & Catering —Revelry Yards The Boatyard Grill Cayuga Medical Center Establishment Gola Osteria The Heights Restaurant Inn at Taughannock Falls Ithaca Bakery Loaves & Fishes Just Desserts Kiely’s Cooking Maxie’s Supper Club Moosewood Restaurant Taverna Ban� Taste of Thai Express Word of Mouth Catering Wide Awake Bakery

information to the committee by Jan. 24. This information includes details on their policies related to student free speech rights, their plans for fulfilling the educational purpose for Jewish students, the role of their DEI (Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion) departments in serving Jewish students on campus, and their strategies for protecting Jewish students to comply with anti-discrimination laws. It’s no surprise that many people say more needs to be done to combat antisemitism when organizations like the AntiDefamation League (ADL) have reported that the United States saw a 361% increase in antisemitic incidents from 2022 to 2023. According to the ADL, 73% of Jewish college students and 44% of non-Jewish students experienced or saw antisemitic incidents since the beginning of the 202324 school year. As a result, the ADL says that the “American Jewish community is facing a threat level that’s now unprecedented in modern history.” However, the accuracy of the data released by the ADL has been called into question as reporting has surfaced accusing the ADL of “including pro-Palestinian

marches in its count of antisemitic incidents in the United States.” The AmericanJewish publication Forward has reported that the ADL included pro-Palestinian rallies that featured “anti-Zionist chants and slogans,” even if there was no hostility towards Jewish people. The ADL even counts rallies organized by Jewish activists with groups like Jewish Voice for Peace and Students for Justice in Palestine as antisemitic incidents. The ADL’s decision to label pro-Palestinian rallies as antisemitic incidents poses a significant challenge to the principles of free speech, particularly for those advocating for Palestinian rights. It’s essential to recognize the distinction between criticism of Israeli government actions and genuine anti-Semitism, as conflating the two can have harmful consequences for pro-Palestinian free speech. For example, labeling pro-Palestinian expression as anti-Semitic can discourage individuals from engaging in legitimate criticism of Israeli government policies, such as occupation, apartheid, and alleged acts of genocide. Palestinian activists often seek to raise awareness about human rights violations and advocate for justice, equality, and an end to occupation. Contin u ed on Page 15

ET 12 G 2 1 BUY E FREE! MOR

ONLY

$3299 Reg. Price $44.99

Special Limited Time Offer!

35% SAVINGS

Wineries Damiani Wine Sellers Frontenac Point Vineyard Hosmer Winery Lakewood Vineyards Long Point Winery Montezuma Winery Shalestone Vineyards Six Mile Creek Winery Wagner Vineyards

THANK YOU! 10 T h e I t h a c a T i m e s / J a n u a r y 1 7 – 2 3 , 2 0 2 4

INCLUDING SHIPPING

Hale Honeybells The once a year citrus sensation!

Buy 12 get 12 more

FREE!

Call 1-855-541-4626 to Order Item 2692X

or Visit HaleGroves.com/H4YU50 Only $32.99 plus $7.99 shipping & processing. Satisfaction completely guaranteed.

Since 1947. Hale Groves, Vero Beach, FL 32966

IC: H4YU50

35% SAVINGS! INCLUDING SHIPPING!

*Plus $7.99 handling per pack to the 48 contiguous states. Limited time offer, good while supplies last. Not valid with any other offer. Limit 5 boxes per customer.

Start your day with the most intriguing news, sports and entertainment stories everyone in Ithaca will be talking about – Delivered to your inbox by 6 a.m.

To sign up, go to:

ithaca.com/newsletters

January 17 – 23, 2024 / The Ithaca Times

Sports

IHS Track Heads Indoors Young Team Making Progress, Setting Records By Ste ve L aw re nc e

everal factors have converged to help Ithaca High’s indoor track team improve their times and enhance their experience this year, and head coach Ian Golden likes what he is seeing. Several indoor track records have fallen during this young season, so I reached out to Golden and he said, “The indoor track program has only been around a few years, but it has been great to see some of the records turned over. Joshua Kwakye-Minott set the new record in the 55-meter dash, with a time of 6:77, and it was the third time this season he broke Joshua Ha’s old record of 6:85. Noah Hilker — a junior — did the same in the 1600, running it in 4:26, and another junior — Riley Hubisz — broke the record in the 3200 with a 9:22, breaking Silas Derfel’s record of 9:24.” His opti-

mism evident, Golden added, “The old record for the 1600 was was 4:27, and I think Noah and Riley can both break 4:20 this year.” Coach Golden shared his favorable opinion of a new event being introduced, that being the Race Walk event. Ian told me “Race walking is a very technical event, and four of our top five finishers were disqualified.” Alas, an unlikely athlete stepped up, as junior thrower Charles Anderson entered the event and finished without a DQ. In Ian’s words, “He usually does the heavy stuff, like the shot put and the discus, and it was a lot of fun to see him out there.” “The race walk is a 1500-meter event,” Golden offered, “and it is seen often on the world stage, but it has taken a back seat in high school competitions.” He added, “It’s cool to see it now, and I will be hosting a Race Walk clinic soon,

PIZZA • WINGS • CALZONES • SIDES • PEPSI

CATERING & PARTY PACKS AVAILABLE

SPECIAL

No dine in. Order takeout by phone. Dinner menu 7 days 5-10pm Delivery through Doordash and IthacaToGo. Mon-Sun: 11:30-3:00 p.m. Dinner: 4:30-9:00 p.m. !

Diamond’s

New Delhi

12 T h e I t h a c a T i m e s / J a n u a r y 1 7 – 2 3 , 2 0 2 4

JOHNSON CITY 607-777-9997

for Best Indian Food & Best Buffet for 2010!! Order online: NewDelhiDiamonds.com fo

SYRACUSE 315-463-7272

BIG FLATS 607-358-6088

$41

Thanks for choosing New Delhi Diamond Enjoy Indian Cuisine With Us! pe

ITHACA 607 273-7272

REG

Celebrate Spring with U O

$29 49

1 LARGE CHEESE OR 1 TOPPING pizza, 8 count buffalo wings, bread stix & a 2 liter Pepsi. Valid thru 2/10/24

and inviting athletes from other schools.” On the girl’s side, freshman Tsadia Bercuvitz turned in a 3:05 in the 1K, besting Eliza Derito’s previous record of 3:08. Tsadia also hold the record in the 1500 (4:44) and the 3K (10:08). Paceyn O’GradySpecht set a school record in the Race Walk, and in the pole vault, Maren Golden vaulted 8’6,” topping her old mark of 8’4.” Thus far, four Little Red athletes — Tsadia Bercuvitz, Riley Hubisz, Will Boscia and Maren Ithaca High School junior runners Noah Hilker and Riley Hubisz are aiming to set new long distance Golden have indoor track records this season. qualified for the (Photo by Dove Williams) Indoor Nationals. Golden bests, in another meet it was 34 of 51 and expressed his gratitude to the Finger in a third it was 21 of 53. It’s nice to see Lakes Runners Club for its effort to procure some access to Barton Hall. Ian some athletes on the podium, but it’s also very meaningful to see such a large porsaid, “The FLRC arranged for access to tion of the team continually improving.” Barton Hall for the club and for some Looking at the overall picture, Ian added, community groups, and we appreciate “Over the last three meets, roughly 50% of that effort to improve community enall events have been personal best efforts gagement and inclusion. There are a lot by our athletes.” of liability and risk management issues As Hemingway said, “There is nothrelated to youth athletics, and it helps ing noble in being superior to your fellow to have the support of Cornell and our man; true nobility is being superior to community partners.” your former self.” Even if an athlete does “While it is nice to see the records being broken, it is a lot of fun to see the team not make the podium or take home a medal or a trophy, a little nobility is a nice improve as a whole,” Golden said. “In a consolation prize. recent meet, 15 of 39 athletes set personal

Beer & Wine • Catering • 106 W. Green St. • 272-4508 •

Call for takeout: 607-272-1003 • 106 W. Green St. • 607-272-4508 • Open every day

By Sta ff R eport

A special exhibit is coming to the Trumansburg Conservatory of Fine Arts to celebrate its 40th Anniversary with a special exhibit. (Photo: Provided)

n celebration of its 40th anniversary, the Trumansburg Conservatory of Fine Arts (TCFA) is set to host a special exhibit titled “Trumansburg Conservatory of Fine Arts: Past, Present, Future.” The exhibit will run from February through March 2024 in the main gallery of TCFA, showcasing the institution’s remarkable journey from its historical roots to its current role as a cultural hub. The opening event is scheduled for Sunday, February 3, from 2-4 p.m., providing the public with a unique opportunity to explore the rich history and vibrant presence of the conservatory. Admission to the event is free, and attendees can enjoy wine and light refreshments. The exhibition, curated as part of TCFA’s 2024 calendar, promises a captivating exploration through time, utilizing historical documents, photographs, diagrams, architectural plans/renderings, and video presentations.

The display will be divided into three parts, each shedding light on a crucial aspect of the Conservatory’s narrative. Part I: The Past delves into the history of the 1851 building, a registered National and State landmark renowned for its exemplary Greek Revival architecture. Through an array of visuals and narratives, visitors will be transported back to the origins of the building, originally the First Baptist Church of Ulysses. Part II: The Present focuses on TCFA’s current arts programs, aligning them with the institutional mission crafted four decades ago at the conservatory’s inception. This segment aims to showcase the ongoing commitment to fostering learning and culture within the community. Part III: The Future unveils ambitious plans for a restoration project slated for 202526. The conservatory’s leadership, fueled by a matching grant of $279,000 from the New

York State Council on the Arts (NYSCA), aims to breathe new life into the historic structure. A capital campaign will be initiated to secure additional funding for the restoration project, ensuring the preservation of this cultural gem. The exhibit opening on February 3 promises a unique blend of education and entertainment, allowing attendees to engage with the conservatory’s legacy meaningfully. With weekend gallery hours continuing throughout the show on Fridays from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. and Sundays from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m., the community has ample opportunities to immerse themselves in this cultural celebration. As TCFA embarks on its 40th-year milestone, the “Trumansburg Conservatory of Fine Arts: Past, Present, Future” exhibit is a testament to its enduring impact on the community and sets the stage for an exciting future of continued cultural enrichment.

Arts&Entertainment

T-BURG FINE ARTS CONSERVATORY CELEBRATES 40TH ANNIVERSARY

January 17 – 23, 2024 / The Ithaca Times

Film

Two Great Minds Freud’s Last Session Imagines Freud Meeting C.S. Lewis By D av id Bura k

nthon Hopkins enters the character of Sigmund Freud with compelling power in the fascinating new film “Freud’s Last Session,” an engaging, perhaps-true, version of his conversations toward the end of his life. His guest-discussant, C.S. Lewis, is a creative & intelligent counter to Freud, played by Matthew Goode with enough intensity to imbue their vying intellectual Vantage points with the juice to hold our attention as allied bombers fly over London. Lewis was an Oxford don, who, as a student, was part of a writer’s group in which the participants read and critiqued each other’s work. (That group included J.R.R.Tolkein.)

The cinematic discussion between Sigmund Freud & C.S. Lewis remains a matter of conjecture. The Matthew Goode stars as C.S. Lewis alongside Anthony Hopkins stars as Sigmund Freud in the new film “Freud’s Last Session”. Anthony Hopkins as Sigmund Freud. (Photo: Provided) historical record notes that Freud had a meeting with an Oxford don about Meanwhile, we see Freud suffering you might imagine, this is a harbinger of from cancer, which he “treats” by use of three weeks before his death. The filmthings to come. makers acknowledge this uncertainty.) a combination of whiskey and morphine. Both men are analysts of different fanAt the time of the movie, Poland At times it feels like he’s ensconced in a tasy arenas. Freud looks closely at dreams, had fallen to the Nazis, and Hitler’s air contemporary sector of Dante’s Inferno, and Lewis creates dreamscapes which will force would soon be attacking England. and looking for a shortcut to get out. earn him substantial literary praise. Meanwhile, C.S. Lewis is ensconced in However, his analytical approach appears However, Freud is unkind, albeit, perto impede him from understanding the an Oxford career, which will include haps, realistic, re: his advice to humanity: semi-sacred bond between C.S. Lewis and writing “The Chronicles of NARNIA,” a i.e, “grow up.” a fellow soldier, who asks Lewis to watch mystical tale, reminiscent of Arthurian This film compels us to do this, in part, stories. over his mother if said soldier is killed. As with its WW II battle scenes. They provide insights into the consciousness of those who endured the horrors of “Trench Warfare.” If you’re interested in more images of this sort, you need only read some poetry by Wilfred Owen (like “Dulce Et Decorum Est”) to get a grasp of how those experiences can remain ensconced in your mind Save now with for the rest of your life.

Caring for next spring’s perfect lawn starts now. Let the experts at TruGreen® provide a tailored plan that can help your lawn look its very best year-round.

Freud’s Last Session

OFF*

Starring Anthony Hopkins and Matthew Goode Directed by Matt Brown Rated PG-13 currently Playing at Regal Destiny at Destiny USA, 9586 Destiny USA Dr, Syracuse (it is not currently scheduled to play at an Ithaca theatre)

Your First Service

TruGreen will gladly visit your property as needed between scheduled visits to ensure your satisfaction◆ Our tailored lawn plans utilize the latest technology and techniques that help make your lawn green and healthy.

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

Our TruGreen Lawn Assessment® will examine your grass and soil types and tailor your plan based on the results.†

contin u ed from page 6

“

Call for your FREE, no-obligation quote today!

1-877-868-8992

*Special price is for ﬁrst Lawn service only. Requires purchase of annual plan, for new residential EasyPay, MonthlyPay, or PrePay customers only. Valid at participating TruGreen locations. Availability of services and/or products may vary by geography. Not to be combined with or used in conjunction with any other offer or discount. Additional restrictions may apply. Consumer responsible for all sales tax. †Purchase of annual lawn plan required for TruGreen Lawn Assessment, which is performed at the ﬁrst visit. America’s #1 lawn care company based on U.S. market share of professional lawn care companies. 2022 MMR Brand Health Tracker. ◆Guarantee applies to annual plan customers only. BBB accredited since 07/01/2012. ©2022 TruGreen Limited Partnership. All rights reserved. In Connecticut, B-0153, B-1380, B-0127, B-0200, B-0151.

14 T h e I t h a c a T i m e s / J a n u a r y 1 7 – 2 3 , 2 0 2 4

110 North Cayuga St., Ithaca repstudio.com • 607-272-4292

Richard at least Tompkins funds go to the employees who work in Ithaca. The shareholders of Tompkins are the employees. You should be more concerned where your tax dollars go since Bidenomics just enables printing out of trillions and trillions weekly. Listen to yourself. Sleep in your car? Great strategy in 10 degree weather. Good luck.” — Steven Jones

NATURE CENTER ENDS PROGRAM contin u ed from page 4

administrative functions, demonstrating a commitment to adaptability and responsible resource management. Despite these challenges, the institution actively pursues engagement and fundraising strategies to stabilize its financial position. The Director of PRI, Warren Allmon, acknowledges the difficulty of the downsizing decision, stating, “These are undoubtedly trying times for PRI, but the Institution’s mission is more important now than ever, and we remain committed to fulfilling it.” Allmon emphasizes the painful necessity of downsizing to ensure the sustainability of PRI’s collection and public educational function for future generations. While the downsizing decision is challenging, the institution aims to maintain its TAX-EXEMPT STATUS contin u ed from page 10

Labeling these efforts as anti-Semitic can undermine their ability to voice concerns about specific policies without being unfairly characterized as antisemitic. This directly impacts students’ free speech rights on college campuses. Additionally, labeling pro-Palestinian activism as antisemitic risks diluting the gravity of actual instances of anti-Semitism, detracting from the ability to address genuine cases of discrimination against Jewish individuals.

high standards of excellence while adapting to the current financial, educational, and social environment. Smith stressed that PRI’s extensive fossil and artifact collections will not be sold under any circumstances, as they are held in public trust. However, PRI announced that the Cayuga Nature Center would be ending its live animal program and rehoming its animals due to continued financial challenges. The Nature Center’s Director of Live Animals, Shyia Magan, has said “The decision to rehome the animals at CNC considering the financial challenges at PRI is a sad, but easy choice when considering the well-being of our animals.” Magan continued saying, “As an animal care professional, giving the best possible life to our animal ambassadors is my priority, and if we are unable to offer that to them, then it is our responsibility to make sure they end up in a place where they can get the care

they deserve.” She added, “The animals are a part of the fabric of what makes the nature center what it is to the community, and seeing that part torn away is difficult, but the nature center still has so much to offer.” A statement announcing the unfortunate news said, “Most of the animals at the Nature Center are regulated through state and federal permits, so—before an animal can go to its new home—approval will need to be received from the relevant agencies. Because of this, some animals may take longer to re-home than others. The goal is to have every animal at CNC re-homed by the end of March, but some may move sooner. A list of where animals will be rehomed to will be regularly updated at www.priweb.org/downsizing.” PRI’s struggles underscore the broader challenges faced by cultural and educational institutions in today’s uncertain times. As institutions navigate the delicate

balance between financial stability and mission fulfillment, community support becomes increasingly vital. PRI’s ongoing efforts to secure funding and engage with its community reflect a determination to weather the storm and continue delivering valuable scientific and educational contributions. According to Smith, the institution has experienced an outpouring of community support in response to its recent fundraising challenges. “Gifts from around the world are helping to bridge the current funding gap as PRI weathers this challenging period in its 90-year history,” Smith said. While the long-term implications remain uncertain, Smith expressed confidence that PRI would make it through thanks to the commitment of its donors, members, and local supporters who recognize the importance of its scientific work and educational offerings.

Conversations around revoking the taxexempt status of these institutions add another layer of complexity to the situation, especially in Ithaca, where tax-exempt Cornell University gobbles up around 60% of the City’s property. With more than half of City property off the tax rolls, the remaining property owners are left with the burden of paying increasingly higher taxes to make up for the hole created by Cornell. Property owners then pass these costs on to tenants by increasing rent, which has made Ithaca one of the most expensive places to live in New York State.

In the recently negotiated Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between Cornell University and the City of Ithaca, the university agreed to provide the City with an annual voluntary contribution of $4 million — adjusted for inflation — for the next 15 years. However, the Ithaca Times has reported, “If Cornell were not tax-exempt, it would owe the City $33 million in property taxes” every year. Regardless of the outcome, the scrutiny from the Ways and Means Committee suggests a growing concern within the U.S. government about how universities

handle issues related to anti-Semitism and the protection of targeted communities on their campuses. The Ithaca Times has contacted Cornell’s Vice President of University Relations, Joel Malina, for comment but has not yet received a response. At approximately 2:30 in the afternoon on Jan. 12, an individual from Cornell’s media relations team responded to our inquiry saying, “We have received the letter and will respond promptly to the Committee’s questions on this important issue. That’s all we have to share at this time.”

HIGH SCHOOL ROBOTICS TEAM contin u ed from page 7

School, IPEI, and IthacaSTEM Advocates. Their support makes it possible for the team to operate and to foster a love of STEAM. (Science Technology Engineering Arts Math). Code Red is an associate member of the IthacaSTEM Advocates, an affiliate of the Ithaca Public Education Initiative (IPEI), a not-for-profit organization that believes the education of every student in the Ithaca City School District (ICSD) is enhanced through community connections and support. More information about Code Red can be found at our websitehttps://www. team639.org/, or by emailing adviser Ian Krywe at ikrywe@icsd.k12.ny.us. For more information about FIRST robotics can be found athttps://www.firstinspires. org/. January 17 – 23, 2024 / The Ithaca Times