February 14, 2024

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2 The Ithaca Times / February 14 – 20, 2024

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VOL. XLIII / NO. 76 / February 14, 2024 Serving 47,125 readers week ly

ON THE COVER:

Dr. Baruch J. Whitehead Honored with J. Diann Sam’s African American History Month Recognition

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Ithaca Loves Teachers events will be taking place throughout the area all week.

NEWSLINE ������������������������������������3-5 GUEST OPINION ����������������������������� 6 LETTERS TO THE EDITOR ������������ 7

By M at t D ough e rt y

SPORTS ������������������������������������������� 10

Whitehead founded the Dorothy Cotton he Ithaca Common Council began Jubilee Singers in 2010, which is a chorus its first meeting of February by awarding the J. Diann Sam’s African dedicated to preserving the formal concert style of the Negro spiritual, and has American History Month recognition performed on national and international award to Dr. Baruch J. Whitehead for his stages, such as the John F. Kennedy Cenoutstanding contributions to the commuter for the Performing Arts in Washingnity. The award recognizes individuals of remarkable leadership and courage during ton DC. The chorus is named in honor of Civil African American History Month and has Rights pioneer and longtime Ithaca resibeen given annually since 2004. dent Dorothy Cotton, who served as EduDr. Whitehead is a mentor, an activcation Director for the Southern Christian ist, and an Associate Professor of Music Leadership Conference, where she worked Education at Ithaca College, and he was alongside Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Cotcommended for his significant impact on ton passed away in Ithaca in 2018. education and community-building. His Diann Sam’s — the award’s namesake dedication to using music to eliminate barriers and connect communities has left — was also a longtime Ithaca resident.

In 1993, Sams became the first Black an indelible mark on the community. woman on Ithaca’s Common Council and The resolution announcing the award only the second alderperson of color in outlined Whitehead's extensive accomIthaca’s history. She represented Ithaca's plishments, including co-founding the Second Ward for over a decade and was Community Unity Music Education also the first African-American to serve Program (CUMEP) alongside last year’s as the city’s acting mayor. Additionally, In awardee, Alan Fe Nunn. In addition,

T a k e

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT �������������������� 11 DANCE �������������������������������������������� 12 DINING ������������������������������������������ 13 BOOKS �������������������������������������������� 14 Dr. Baruch J. Whitehead co-founded the Community Unity Music Education Program (CUMEP) and founded the Dorothy Cotton Jubilee Singers. (Photo: Ithaca College)

1987, she became the second AfricanAmerican to serve on the Ithaca City School District Board of Education. After retiring in 2002, she continued to work extensively in the community by supporting GIAC, the Southside Community Center, and the preservation of the historical significance of the Southside neighborhood.

As a peace activist, Whitehead organized a “peace concert” with Israeli composer Contin u ed on Page 15

N o t e

X Tompkins County Legislature Votes Against Cease-fire Resolution • Respect for International Law The Tompkins County Legislature voted • Unrestricted entry of humanitarian assisagainst a resolution calling for the release of all hostages and a ceasefire in Israel’s on- tance into Gaza • Restoration of food, water, electricity, going war against Hamas in Gaza during their meeting on Feb 6. The resolution, titled and medical supplies to civilians in Gaza • Initiation of an international peace proc“Urgent Humanitarian and Local Imperatives Regarding Ongoing Violence in Israel, Gaza, ess to negotiate a two-state solution and the Middle East,” failed in a 7-6 vote fol• Acknowledge and respect the right of all lowing hours of public comments and debate Palestinians to reside securely and peacefully in a recognized State of Palestine and for among legislators.

The resolution was sponsored by Legis- Israelis to live securely and peacefully in the lators Travis Brooks, Veronica Pillar, and Greg State of Israel The original resolution submitted to the Mezey. If passed, it would have resulted in the Legislature calling on State and Federal Legislature by the Human Rights Commission leaders like Governor Kathy Hochul, President in the weeks following October 7 was called Joe Biden, and members of Congress to do “one-sided” by some residents. It was tabled everything within their powers to achieve the for several weeks so legislators could change its language in an attempt to get those in opfollowing demands: • The release of all civilian hostages by position to support the resolution. However, Hamas those efforts proved unsuccessful.

• A sustainable ceasefire from all sides The attempt to pass a ceasefire resolution

in Tompk ins County came as similar re solutions have been passed by municipal governments across the Country in recent weeks. Reuters reports that 48 cities have passed resolutions calling for a ceasefire, including Chicago, Seattle, San Francisco, and Albany.

Veronica Pillar said that the majority of emails opposing the initial resolution “did not simply say no ceasefire; they said don’t call for a ceasefire without also calling for Hamas to release hostages.” As a result, Pillar said that is the reason the first demand calls for the release of all hostages by Hamas.

Ultimately, the resolution failed to pass in a 7-6 vote. Greg Mezey, Veronica Pillar, Shawna Black, Amanda Champion, Susan Curry, Anne Koreman, and Travis Brooks supported the resolution. In contrast, Mike Sigler, Rich John, Mike Lane, Lee Shurtleff, Randy Brown, and Dan Klein voted against it.

TIMES TABLE ��������������������������� 16-17 CLASSIFIED ������������������������������ 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 .

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February 14 – 20, 2024 / The Ithaca Times

3

INQUIRING Marketview Apartments Bringing Affordable Housing to Ithaca PHOTOGRAPHER T N e w s l i n e

By Ke nne th Wate rhou se

WHAT ARE YOUR PLANS FOR VALENTINE’S DAY?

“Stay home, have a glass of wine on my own, and avoid the chaos.”

– Diana N.

“Work and study.”

– Yashua N.

“Relaxing and self-care.”

– Adrina D.

“Gifting our dogs presents.”

– Michelle & John L.

““Ice-skating.”

– Katt H.

By M at t D ough e rt y

o address Ithaca’s ongoing housing crisis, Governor Kathy Hochul announced the completion of Marketview Apartments, a new four-story development featuring 42 affordable apartments on Ithaca’s waterfront, in December 2023. The governor emphasized the project’s contribution to sustained growth and the opportunity for more individuals to enjoy the waterfront area, a site of intense re-development in the coming years.

“Our latest investment in Ithaca continues a pattern of sustained growth and provides an opportunity for more people to enjoy the benefits of this vibrant city and its wonderful waterfront,” Governor Hochul said. “The opening of Marketview Apartments demonstrates that commitment to addressing the housing crisis will benefit residents in communities across the state and ensure more New Yorkers have an affordable, modern, and secure place to call home.”

Over the last five years, New York State Homes and Community Renewal has been actively creating or preserving over 1,000 affordable homes in Tompkins County.

Marketview Apartments is the latest development in this effort that aligns with Governor Hochul’s $25 billion Housing Plan, which aims to create or preserve 100,000 affordable homes across New York.

“All 42 apartments are affordable to households with incomes at or below 60 percent of the Area Median Income,” Governor Hochul said. The residential amenities include a community room, laundry room, patio, and playground, providing a familyfriendly environment. Each apartment has a patio or balcony, and residents will have access to free high-speed broadband internet.

The development also incorporates open green spaces, plazas for events/outdoor dining, and stormwater management gardens featuring native plantings.

Marketview Apartments received fund-

ing from the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority’s New Construction Housing Program.

The all-electric development adheres to green building standards required for Enterprise Green Communities Plus certification and US Green Building Council LEED standards.

Marketview Apartments, located at 102 Cayuga Park Ln, opened in December 2023 and includes 42 affordable housing units on Ithaca’s waterfront. (Photo: File) The apartments feature ENERGY STARof housing for low-to-moderate-income rated appliances, equipment, and lighting alongside low-VOC building materials and households in the City of Ithaca will not only help us meet some of the ongoing integrated pest management. need for affordable housing here in TompRochester-based Park Grove Developkins County, but will also ensure that these ment, LLC, in alliance with Cayuga Medihouseholds have easy access to grocery cal Center of Ithaca, as a non-profit partstores, the Ithaca Farmers Market, and ner, spearheaded other community resources.” the project. State Assemblymember Anna Kelles underfinancing for the $14 million devel- scored the importance of affordable housing in addressing broader societal chalopment includes lenges. “New affordable workforce housing nearly $9 million in federal Low-In- is exactly what [the] Ithaca community come Housing Tax needs to release the intense pressure valve on our housing crisis that contributes to Credits and $2.4 million in subsidy the consistently rising cost of living and to help our residents thrive,” Kelles said. from HCR. AdKelles continued, saying, “A lack of ditional contristable, consistent housing is associated butions came with decreased educational performance from NYSERDA, for children, mental health crises for chilthe Community dren and adults, instability in job attainPreservation Cor— Anna Kelles ment and retention, to name a few.” She poration, and the Tompkins County added, “Ensuring stable housing, in effect, is a prudent preventative measure to this Housing Trust Fund. myriad of public health issues.”

New York State Homes and CommuTompkins County Legislature Chairnity Renewal Commissioner RuthAnne woman Shawna Black expressed pride in Visnauskas applauded the project, stating, the collaboration that led to the develop“Under Governor Hochul’s housing plan, ment. “Congratulations to Park Grove and we are making strategic investments to Cayuga Medical Center for their excellent accelerate affordable housing growth in permanently affordable housing developcommunities across New York.” ment,” Black said. She continued, “I’m Senate Majority Leader Charles Schumer proud that Tompkins County’s Commupraised the project’s impact on Ithaca resinity Housing Development Fund contribdents. “Every Ithaca resident deserves a safe uted to this project and grateful for the and secure place to call home,” he noted. other public funding sources that helped State Senator Lea Webb emphasized to make this happen.” Black added, “This the broader impact on the Southern Tier, is an inspiring development that puts afstating, “Access to quality and affordable fordable housing close to amenities in our housing is one of our most pressing issues across the Southern Tier.” Webb continued saying, “The completion of 42 units Contin u ed on Page 15

“New affordable workforce housing is exactly what [the] Ithaca community needs to release the intense pressure valve on our housing crisis that contributes to the consistently rising cost of living and to help our residents thrive.”

4 The Ithaca Times / February 14 – 20, 2024

N e w s l i n e

Common Council Extends $20,000 Police Hiring Incentive Following Debate

By M at t D ough e rt y

pay for officers resulting from the last contract he Ithaca Common Council voted negotiation. Fifth to renew a $20,000 incentive to Ward Alderperson help the Ithaca Police Department Margaret Fabrizio hire new officers as the agency struggles questioned, “Is that to address a years-long staffing shortage. not enough? Do we Following a brief debate, the resolution need to continue passed in an 8-3 vote. the incentive since The Ithaca Police Benevolent Associawe have increased tion (PBA) has been advocating for these our base salary?” incentives, citing prolonged periods of Fabrizio’s quesunderstaffing due to retirements and oftion underlined a ficers leaving the department to work in broader concern different communities. However, some Following a healthy debate, the Common Council voted to extend a $20,000 hiring incentive at the Ithaca Police Department to help combat staffing shortages. about the fairmembers of the Common Council have (Photo: Kenneth Waterhouse) ness of increased argued that these incentives are unnecesspending on police, sary, given recent substantial increases in Kelly said, “The next Chief should come especially in a climate where all departthe base pay for officers. Those in opposifrom within the department, from within tion to the incentives for police also pointed ments are reported to be short-staffed. the city, and that’s part of my long-term Kelly responded, pointing out that deout that there are several City departments succession planning.” spite the pay increase, experiencing staffing In response to the concern about equal the department still shortages that have not opportunities for all City departments, faces a shortage, and received hiring incenThird Ward Alderperson David Shapiro the incentive is crucial tives and that singling questioned the fairness of providing incenin recruiting experiout IPD is unfair. tives exclusively to police officers. “To say enced officers. Kelly The resolution police officers get an incentive and other told the Council that presented to the Comfolks don’t get that same opportunity. three officers had been mon Council outlined I don’t support that,” Shapiro said. brought in through the a $20,000 monetary The discussion also touched upon the incentive plan. incentive for qualitiming and process of the incentive proLocal involvement fied officers willing to — David Shapiro posal. Some Council members questioned in the police force also transfer laterally to the the urgency and timing of the decision, emerged as a critical IPD from other departpoint of discussion. First Ward Alderperson considering the agreement between the ments. The incentive aims to address the PBA and the previous mayor in midKayla Matos told Kelly that she wanted to shortage of qualified applicants for officer December. Others suggested alternatives, see more community members apply for positions, which has been a challenge proposing investing positions within faced by IPD for several years. in local individuals the department.

Ithaca’s Chief of Police, Thomas Kelly, pursuing criminal Matos mentioned expressed gratitude to the Council for justice degrees to encountering people their support in extending the incentives build a long-term, of color interested and acknowledged the strain on services locally rooted poin the position who due to officer shortages. “While the previlice force. faced challenges in ous incentive was effective in recruiting Ultimately, the application proseveral officers, we are still short over 11 Kelly emphasized cess. “I met five indipositions that need to be filled,” Chief the need for these viduals of color who Kelly said. He emphasized the need to incentives as part of have applied to the extend the incentive to hire more expea broader strategy department within rienced officers from outside agencies to to address staffing the last five years improve staffing levels. issues and rebuild who didn’t even get According to Kelly, “Currently, we trust in the compast interviewing,” are budgeted for 65 positions, and are 54 munity. “Part of positions filled.” He added that the average Matos said.

— Thomas Kelly why I’m here is Kelly agreed with number of officers on patrol every night is repairing that damMatos, acknowledgaround four or five. age and acknowledging it and moving the ing the importance of local representation However, concerns were raised durpolice department forward, and I need the in law enforcement, and expressed a willing the Council meeting regarding the ingness to work on initiatives to encourage tools to do that. And this is a small token necessity of continuing these incentives, to help do that,” Kelly said. community members to join the force. given the substantial increase in the base

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“To say police officers get an incentive and other folks don’t get that same opportunity.

I don’t support that.”

“Part of why I’m here is repairing that damage and acknowledging it and moving the police department forward, and I need the tools to do that. And this is a small token to help do that.”

UPS&DOWNS Ups

Cornell men’s hockey extended its streak without a loss to 12 Saturday night as freshman forward Jonathan Castagna registered his second fourpoint night of the season to lift the No. 13-ranked Cornell men’s hockey team to its 6-1 victory over Union.

Downs

Cornell Men’s Basketball lost 80-78 at the last second to Yale, the defending Ivy League Champions, on Saturday, February 10. A rematch will take place at Cornell on February 23.

HEARD&SEEN Heard

According to a recent survey from the Firefighters Association of the State of New York that surveyed 1,000 upstate New Yorker’s, 49% of respondents expressed interest in becoming volunteer firefighters.

Seen

Something magical happened at the end of the Ukraine Orchestra Concert this past Saturday. The concert saw four standing ovations and three encores.

The musicians were visibly moved by the response and a few Ukrainian flags were waved.

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

Do you support the Common Council removing the Pledge of Allegiance from their meeting agenda?

32 .7% Yes. 49.1% No. 18.2% I don’t care.

N ext Week ’s Q uestion :

Do you think other City Departments that are short staffed, like DPW, should receive a similar hiring incentive as IPD? Visit ithaca.com to submit your response.

February 14 – 20, 2024 / The Ithaca Times

5

COMMUNITY ANNOUNCEMENT

GUEST OPINION

By Sta ff R e p ort

By S ona l i Kol h at k a r

Tompkins County Quilters Guild 50th Anniversary Quilt Showcase

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n a celebration of its 50th anniversary, the Tompkins County Quilters Guild (TCQG) is hosting a captivating quilt showcase at the Community School of Music and Arts (CSMA) in downtown Ithaca, NY. The 50th Anniversary Quilt Showcase, from February 1st to March 27th, promises to be a visual feast featuring 30 meticulously crafted small quilts from traditional to contemporary styles. All these stunning pieces are the handiwork of talented TCQG members, showcasing the guild's rich history and artistic diversity.

Situated at 330 E. State St., the CSMA provides a fitting backdrop for this celebration of textile artistry. The exhibit welcomes visitors during its open business hours, extending a warm invitation to the community to explore the intricate world of quilting. Guests can enjoy the showcase from Tuesday to Friday, between 2:30 p.m. and 7:00 p.m., and on Saturdays from 9:30 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.

The TCQG has been a vibrant commu-

nity of quilters, and this showcase marks a significant milestone in their journey. Each quilt on display tells a unique story, reflecting the individual creativity and collective spirit of the guild members. The quilts, varying from traditional designs to more contemporary expressions, are a testament to the timeless artistry that has defined the TCQG over the past half-century.

The guild is a close-knit membership organization, fostering a love for quilting through bimonthly meetings held on the second and fourth Tuesday of every month at 7:00 p.m. Lifelong, located at 119 West Court Street, Ithaca, serves as the venue for these gatherings, providing a space for members to share their passion, exchange ideas, and showcase their latest creations in a show-and-tell format.

Beyond the regular meetings, TCQG members engage in collaborative learning through workshops and weekend quilting retreats. These events not only enhance their quilting skills but also strengthen Contin u ed on Page 7

6 The Ithaca Times / February 14 – 20, 2024

Airbnb Drives Up Housing Costs for All of Us. Let’s Regulate It

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mericans have been on a vacation binge since the easing of COVID-19 restrictions. In particular, the vacation rental company Airbnb is thriving. Late last year, the company posted its highest-ever profits.

Meanwhile cities are seeing rising rents, unaffordable home prices, and increased homelessness. Authorities are now linking these crises in part to Airbnb — and some now are passing strict regulations.

Just as companies like Uber were once touted as a way for working people with cars to earn a little extra spending cash, Airbnb offered the promise of supplementary income for those with an extra room or converted garage.

I’ve rented several Airbnb homes over the 15 years since the company was founded. In the early years, staying in other people’s houses felt like an act of rebellion against corporate hotel chains.

The privacy, convenience, and often lower cost enabled tourists with tighter budgets to enjoy family vacations that otherwise might have been unavailable.

Now, however, the market is increasingly dominated by a small number of corporate “hosts” and professional property managers — wealthy elites and corporate entities that scoop up large numbers of properties and turn big profits by renting them out to travelers.

And that’s driving up housing costs for everyone.

Stephanie Synclair, a 41-year-old Black mom from Atlanta, recently made the news for becoming a home-buyer — not in her hometown, but in Palermo, Sicily.

In spite of having a budget of $450,000 — no small sum — Synclair had no luck buying a home in Atlanta, where properties are among the most overpriced in the nation. Atlanta’s housing market is dominated by investors and cash-rich corporations who scoop up practically every home listed at $500,000 or less, many of which are then transformed into Airbnb listings for tourists.

So Synclair now plans to retire in her $62,000 home on the other side of the planet instead.

A 2017 study of New York City by the watchdog group Inside Airbnb concluded that the Airbnb model also fuels racism in the housing market. “Across all 72 predominantly Black New York City neighborhoods,” the group found, “hosts are five times more likely to be white.” But the “loss of housing and neighborhood disruption due to Airbnb is six times more likely to affect Black residents.”

To curb such inequities, New York City, which already had strict rules about short-term rentals and subleases, passed a law in 2023 requiring Airbnb to ensure that hosts obtain permission to rent out housing. If it fails to do so, both the host and the company are hit with hefty fines.

While this means potentially higher hotel costs for out-of-town visitors, it could also free up rentals for long-term residents. According to The Guardian, this may already be happening, just months after the law went into effect in September.

While cheaper vacation stays are certainly desirable for those of us who love to travel, vacationing is a privilege in the U.S. More than a third of Americans, a 2023 survey found, are unlikely to take a summer vacation. And of those, more than half say they simply can’t afford it.

A 2019 Economic Policy Institute study pointed out that “Airbnb might, as claimed, suppress the growth of travel accommodation costs, but these costs are not a first-order problem for American families.” What is a first-order problem is affordable housing.

While regulating Airbnb will not mitigate all economic injustices facing Americans — such as suppressed wages and a lack of government-funded health care — it certainly will move the needle in the right direction.

Sonali Kolhatkar is the host of “Rising Up With Sonali,” a television and radio show on Free Speech TV and Pacifica stations. This commentary was produced by the Economy for All project at the Independent Media Institute and adapted for syndication by OtherWords.org.

GUEST OPINION

Story House Ithaca: Talk Therapy

The Talk at

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

By St e ph e n Bu r k e

I

n 2019, Jon Miller’s work as a journalist and activist brought him to an International Cities of Refuge Network conference in Rotterdam, the Netherlands.

ICORN was founded in 2006 to give shelter and support to writers and artists who have been oppressed or had their work suppressed. Over 70 member cities worldwide provide refuge and promote freedom of expression. Miller is a member of the City of Asylum group founded in Ithaca in 2001 and associated with ICORN since 2015.

Rotterdam is an apt location for such a conference. It is Europe’s largest seaport, a diverse and open city with residents from almost 200 countries.

While there, Miller discovered a local institution of community and the arts called Verhalenhuis, or Storyhouse. Its mission statement says its goal is “to connect as many people as possible with each other and with the city through art, culture, and personal stories. We make people, communities, and the changing city visible to each other and to a wide audience, contributing to the cultural and social development of the city.” Verhalenhuis organizes and creates performances, exhibits, publications, recordings, storytelling events, and other activities.

The group works on a practical level while also holding lofty ideas about personal fulfillment. Verhalenhuis describes its “purpose” as “promoting people’s happiness,” with a belief in “the two most important sources that promote longterm happiness: develop your talents and use them for a greater cause than yourself, [and] have meaning, social connection with others.”

Miller said he felt congruity between Verhalenhuis and his own belief in the importance of “bringing people together in the presence of something meaningful” and “sharing with people you don't know that well.” He saw Verhalenhuis as “an opportunity for people with ideas” to “share, participate, learn” and left with the idea of creating something similar in Ithaca.

Back home, Miller spoke with Lesley Greene. If one wants to turn an idea about

community and the arts into reality, Greene is an excellent person to know.

Her training and interests are broad: She is a writer, musician, composer, performer, video and sound technician, theater worker, and grant writer. She holds three degrees from Cornell and is the recipient this year of the university’s annual Debra S. Newman ‘02 Cornell Tradition Community Recognition Award for contributions to the community.

Perhaps most notably, Greene cofounded Porchfest, the neighborhood music festival.

The idea for Porchfest came to Greene and a neighbor, Gretchen Hildreth, “inspired by some outdoor ukulele playing,” the Porchfest website says, and by familiarity with the abundance of musicians in Ithaca. The first Porchfest, in 2007, featured about 20 musicians playing music outside their respective houses on a September afternoon.

Today, musicians featured in Porchfest number almost 200. Streets are closed to car traffic in the Fall Creek and Northside neighborhoods where it’s held. There are close to 100 volunteers helping on the day of the festival. Public and private support help meet the expenses that, for the first years, were paid by Greene and Hildreth themselves.

The concept that Greene and Hildreth created and established has been widely emulated, with almost 200 such events throughout the U.S. and Canada.

After discussing with Miller, Greene visited Verhalenhuis and returned with similar enthusiasm. Today, the two are co-directors of Story House Ithaca.

Unlike Verhalenhuis, Story House Ithaca does not have a physical home. It is an aspiration, but for now, projects are pursued, and events are held in partnership with an array of businesses and organizations. Last year, the Story House website notes, it had an average of one event per week.

Late winter can be a fallow time in Ithaca, but it is typically fruitful for Story House. Each month, it holds Contin u ed on Page 15

What You Do Matters

“

Much has been said about Joe Biden’s age, and I’m sure that Trump and your Congressional representative will continue to bring it up and insult him…even though Trump constantly gets things mixed up and can’t remember dates and names.

I do not write for sympathy, because none is needed. True, seniors forget some dates, forget some names. But so what? That’s true of all seniors (and many younger folks!).

What is also true of most seniors is that they have an incredible wealth of experience and knowledge and the wisdom to see what’s really important in life.

The issue is: what they do, not if they forget a date or name. Honest Joe is a perfect example: for a guy who is attacked for being old, he has done a hell of a job for us. Look at the record. Joe knows how important it is to save this Democracy, to fight for it here at home, to protect us against claims of rigged elections, and support Ukraine in the face of Russian attacks. Joe has brought new jobs and manufacturing, investments in better cell service and Internet, better education, better health care insurance, lower drug costs, and better roads and bridges. Joe brought us out of the pandemic where over 1 million people died and the economy was broken. Today, under his leadership, the economy is stronger than ever with the stock market at new highs and more jobs than any time before, anytime! For a guy who forgets some dates, wow, what a record, especially for middle class America.

QUILTERS GUILD contin u ed from page 6

the bonds within the guild. Additionally, the guild members contribute to the community by creating service quilts for various charitable causes, embodying the spirit of giving and creativity.

New members are enthusiastically welcomed into the TCQG fold. Whether they are seasoned quilters or novices eager to learn, the guild provides a supportive environment for all levels of expertise.

Those interested in joining this vibrant community or learning more about the

Meanwhile, Trump and your congressional representatives have done nothing for you except insult and attack those who do the work and spread fear and loathing: nothing to invest in manufacturing, nothing to build out our infrastructure, nothing to lower your taxes, nothing to bring you healthcare, nothing to bring working families anything of value. What Trump and your Congressional Representatives did was try to destroy Democracy, praise Russia and pass huge tax cuts for the wealthy and corporations, not you. Look it up. Living in his gold-plated palaces, he is the elite we must stop.

Both Joe and Trump forget some dates and names, but only Joe has ever done anything for you. If just this once, vote Honest Joe. For your family. For America.” — Sherwood Guernsey

RE: BlockPower Electrification Initiative “Full electrification means more dependence on the power grid as the source of energy. But the power grid is already taxed to the max at times and it and its transmission lines will need to be upgraded as EV vehicles need charging. Where will that power come from if we don't build power plants? Some of them may be carbon sourced. And it is a myth that when people who pay for green energy plug in to the grid they are getting clean energy. Utility transmission mix together all sources of power, no matter how derived, so the power that comes out of your outlet could even be from coal and carbon.” — Henry Kramer

RE: County Ceasefire Resolution

“

They're still wasting their time on issues outside their jurisdiction?

Great! Imagine the damage they would instead be inflicting on responsible Tompkins County residents if they passed legislation that was actually legally binding.” — Richard Ballantyne

guild's activities can contact TCQG50th@ gmail.com. Alternatively, they can contact Bronwyn Mohlke at 607-220-3219, a critical point of contact for inquiries.

The 50th Anniversary Quilt Showcase not only commemorates the rich history of the TCQG but also serves as an open invitation for the community to witness the artistry, dedication, and camaraderie that define this remarkable group of quilters.

As visitors step into the CSMA to admire the carefully curated quilts, they will surely be captivated by the intricate stitches and vibrant colors that tell the story of 50 years of quilting excellence in Tompkins County.

February 14 – 20, 2024 / The Ithaca Times

7

Ithaca Loves Teachers A Week Chock Full of Education Celebration

“

By La Bourgeois

I think it’s great that this commu- and entertainment for educators and edunity takes time (a whole week!) to cation professionals.

As Winter Breaks at area schools tradirecognize and appreciate the work of all the school staff,” said Chel- tionally happen during the last two weeks sea Ryan, a K-12 English as a New of February, teachers and other education professionals can genLanguage teacher from erally take advantage of Union Springs Central this unique opportunity.

School District. She and Ryan also enjoys visher family plan to atits to Rasa Spa, one of the tend the upcoming Ithamany local businesses ca Loves Teachers prooffering discounts to all motion from Feb. 16-29. public school teachers, Ryan said, “This year, we school district employare really excited to see ees, teachers’ union retirhow many hikes we can ees, homeschool teachers, check off on the Waterand childcare workers. fall Challenge!”

“Educators, teachers, and The Ithaca Loves people who support Teachers promotion teachers and work at the started in 2005 with an — Abigail Funk-Gifford schools are a huge benefit estimated 1000 attendI n F e b rua ry, ov e r m i d -w i n t e r b r e a k , It h ac a a r e a b u s i n e s s e s u n i t e t o h o s t a c o m m u n i t y-w i d e c e l e b r at i o n to all areas, and we want ees. Visit Ithaca, which h o n o r i n g p r e K- 1 2 e d u c at o r s w i t h ov e r 1 5 0 ac t i v i t i e s , to be able to do somepartners with Tompkins d i s c o u n t s , a n d e v e n t s t h r o u g h o u t To m p k i n s C o u n t y.

County Chamber and Downtown Itha- thing for them,” said Abigail Funk-Gifford, ca Alliance for this event, reported over Director of Operations at Rasa Spa. “Seeing Jodi LaPierre, Visit Ithaca’s Director Greta Perl, owner of Alphabet Soup, a toy 2,275 attendees last year and expects that them when they check in and then when they number to grow again in 2024. Registra- leave a couple of hours later, you can see a to- store located on the Commons, has a per- of Visitor Experience, has worked on the tion is free for these two weeks of special tally different person, which is a really cool sonal link that drives her participation in Ithaca Loves Teachers event since the beginning. “There was discounts on lodging, retail, food, services, transformation that we get to be a part of.” this event. “I went when nobody else doing this I was younger. My mom type of a program. We is a teacher, and we went were the very first to and did things around celebrate teachers with town together. It’s just a community-wide cea good time,” said Perl. lebration,” she said.

“Everybody has special “We’re a community teachers that you rebuilt on higher educamember fondly from tion. There’s a lot of meyour childhood, and this dia around teacher salis a chance to show aparies and the stress that preciation back to those comes with those powho’ve made such a difsitions. So, it became a ference to each of us.” really good opportuniA complete list of ty to offer this up durdiscounts and deals for ing the week when they retail, lodging, and en— Greta Perl would be on break.” tertainment can be acLaPierre’s favorite cessed by obtaining the free digital pass from IthacaLovesTeachers. part of Ithaca Loves Teachers, even after It h ac a L ov e s Te ac h e r s i s o p e n t o a l l p u b l i c a n d p r i vat e com. This change from a paper program nineteen years? “The love that comes with s c h o o l t e ac h e r s , s c h o o l d i s t r i c t e m p l oy e e s /s ta f f , occurred during the pandemic and has be- it. It’s really fun.” t e ac h e r u n i o n r e t i r e e s , h o m e s c h o o l t e ac h e r s , a n d Local businesses have felt the impact come a relied-upon convenience for teachchi ldca r e wor k ers r ega r dl ess of w h er e you l i v e. of this event during one of the quietest ers and businesses.

“Educators, teachers, and people who support teachers and work at the schools are a huge benefit to all areas, and we want to be able to do something for them.”

“Everybody has special teachers that you remember fondly from your childhood, and this is a chance to show appreciation back to those who’ve made such a difference to each of us..”

8 The Ithaca Times / February 14 – 20, 2024

periods of the year. More than 2,275 education professionals attended this event in 2023, with an estimated impact of over $209,000.

Throughout the two weeks of Ithaca Loves Teachers, these educators can also enjoy a plethora of events such as tastings, yoga classes, and theatrical productions.

FEBRUARY 17

Tap & Craft Festival at Hotel Ithaca, 3-7 p.m.

222 S. Cayuga Street Live music accompanies this sampling of the region’s breweries, cideries, meaderies, and distilleries. Tickets start at $30 with an ILT discount.

Bored Teachers: We Can’t Make This Stuff Up Comedy Tour at the State Theatre of Ithaca, 7:30 p.m.

107 W. State Street Bored Teachers Studios presents an evening of teacher-comedians to help educators release the stress from the school year.

Tickets start at $39.

Unlimited Yoga Classes begin at Yoga Farm Ithaca 509 N Meadow St. From February 17-24, educators can indulge in seven days of yoga classes. The cost is $25.

Th e Ta p & C r a f t F e s t i va l w i l l f e at u r e 2 5 + b r e w e r i e s , c i d e r i e s , m e a d e r i e s & d i s t i l l e r i e s , a l o n g w i t h l i v e m u s i c & s o m e f u n t e ac h e r d i s c o u n t s & p r o m o t i o n s . R i g h t n ow, t e ac h e r s c a n u s e t h e E v e n t b r i t e p r o m o c o d e “ Te ac h ” f o r $ 5 o f f b o t h V I P a n d G e n e r a l S e s s i o n t i c k e t s .

Winemaker Nancy Tisch delivers an in- Ingrid Zabel, PRI’s Climate Change Educateractive class on the sensory physiology tion Manager. It is included with admission FEBRUARY 18 of wine tasting. The cost is $30 per person to the museum.

Drag Story Hour Loves Teachers at Buf- with a 15% teacher discount. falo Street Books from 12-1 p.m.

FEBRUARY 21 215 N. Cayuga St. in the DeWitt Mall FEBRUARY 19 Explore the Solar System Open House Tilia Cordata and Coraline Chardonnay Climate Change and Energy Educa- at the Spacecraft Planetary Image Facility entertain kids and adults with their unique tion Table at the Museum of the Earth, (SPIF), Cornell University, from 9 a.m. – storytelling.

4 p.m.

10 a.m. – 12 p.m.

Sensory Perception of Wine at Bet The 317 Space Sciences Building, Cornell 1259 Trumansburg Rd. (Rt 96) Farm Winery from 2-4 p.m.

Through February 23, visit the Climate University 4204 Krum’s Corners Rd. Trumansburg, Change and Energy Education table to ask Touch real space rocks, plan a Moon NY questions and enjoy fun activities with Dr. base, map planets, create a homemade comet, and experience the new virtual reality system that puts you on Mars.

Sanctuary City opens at the Kitchen Theatre Company 417 W. State St./Martin Luther King Jr. St. Performances of this gripping drama happen Wednesday through Saturday evenings at 7 p.m. with Saturday and Sunday matinees at 2 p.m. The show runs through March 3. Tickets start at $32, with available discounts for teachers.

Wi n e m a k e r N a n c y Ti s c h d e l i v e r s a n i n t e r ac t i v e c l a s s o n t h e s e n s o ry p h y s i o l o g y o f w i n e ta s t i n g .

Th e c o s t i s $ 3 0 p e r p e r s o n w i t h a 1 5% t e ac h e r d i s c o u n t.

Experience! The Finger Lakes at 3:30 p.m.

235 S Cayuga St. Certified Sommelier Laura Winter Falk takes you on a two-hour journey to experience the wines of Long Island. Tickets start at $36, with teacher discounts available.

Beethoven’s Second performed by the Cayuga Chamber Orchestra, 7:30 p.m.

110 N Tioga St, Suite 302 This evening of classical music includes Beethoven’s Symphony No. 2 and features emerging artist Kebra-Seyoun Charles with Michelle Di Russo conducting. Tickets begin at $40, with discounts available for teachers, students, and graduate students.

FEBRUARY 25

Elements of Food & Wine Pairing at Bet The Farm Winery at 2 p.m.

4204 Krum’s Corners Rd. Trumansburg, NY Nancy Tisch, winemaker for Bet The Farm, teaches sensory perception to create compelling wine and food pairings. Tickets start at $30 per person, and teacher discounts are available.

FEBRUARY 24 Details on these events, further event CBD Soap Making at Your CBD Store, opportunities, and the digital pass for dis15 Steps Center Ithaca at 3 p.m. counts can be found at IthacaLovesTeach171 E. State St. on the Commons Students experience cold-process soap- ers.com. During the Ithaca Loves Teachers making techniques and incorporate CBD promotion, staff from Visit Ithaca can be found at the Downtown Visitors Center inextract oils into their unique soaps.

Price: $75 with teacher discounts avail- side the Tompkins Center for History and Culture (110 N. Tioga St.) from 10 a.m. – able 5 p.m., Monday through Saturday.

Discover the Wines of Long Island at February 14 – 20, 2024 / The Ithaca Times

9

Sports

Making Sports History New History Center Exhibit Salutes Sports

By Ste ve L aw re nc e

“

A Sporting Chance” — which, according to the History Center in Tompkins County, “Highlights the important role that sports can play within a community” — was unveiled on February 2nd. I did my first walk-through last week, and I will surely go again, as there is too much to see in one visit.

One of the first areas I perused — highlighting the International Rutabaga Curling Championships — had special meaning to me. I covered the first event in 1997, and to thank me for that initial publicity, Steve Sierigik — the High Commissioner of the International Rutabaga Curling Championship — asked me to emcee the 10th anniversary of the curl, which is still going strong. The History Center exhibit features a replica of the curling venue, a board featuring all the winners over the

years, and while one cannot roll an actual rutabaga, the experience is adequately duplicated.

Another section shines a light on the proud tradition of girls and women’s ice hockey in Ithaca. That part of the exhibit features many wonderful photos capturing the 51-year history of the Tompkins Girls Hockey Association, and features a piece written by Mary Grainger, a tireless advocate of the sport. The perfect encapsulation, written by the perfect person, proudly sharing the impact the TGHA has had on several generations of local girls and women.

The next segment I visited brought back many fond memories, as the interviews I have done with members of the Ithaca League of Women Rollers have featured some of the feistiest, most colorful women I have ever interviewed. The Ithaca Sufferjets were named to honor

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The new exhibit features a historic photo of Howard Washington, lower left and Dolly Hailstork, top middle, who were players on the Ithaca Colored Vets baseball team of 1947, the year Jackie Robinson broke the color barrier in Major League Baseball.

Ithaca’s strong footprint in the women’s suffrage movement, and the exhibit’s brochure points out that “The Ithaca league of Junior Rollers team, the Title IXs, is a reminder of the strides in women’s rights, and a tribute to those who believed that girls can be just a physical as boys.” Roller Derby has been around locally in different forms since 2011, and the devotees are working hard to keep it rolling.

One of the sections features another group of my favorite athletes, and the NY State Special Olympics deserves its place in any such exhibit. Great photos and writings take a look back at the history of the games, the athletes, the coaches and the volunteers that have combined their efforts over the years, and it is proudly pointed out that the local organization is sustained by those dedicated volunteers, while others have paid staff members. Presently, the

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10 T h e I t h a c a T i m e s / F e b r u a r y 1 4 – 2 0 , 2 0 2 4

A Sporting Chance The History Center in Tompkins County 110 N Tioga St., Ithaca Weds.-Sat. 10 a.m. – 6 p.m.

Through December 2024

local Special Olympics program offers 15 sports with over 200 athletes competing.

Local baseball is prominently featured, and the photos in that segment date back a century and a half. The exhibit looks at the baseball fields, the Ithaca City Baseball League, Black Baseball in Ithaca, and shines a light on Tompkins County teams, like the Peculiars of McLean, the Rustics of Danby and Forest City of Ithaca. In the baseball section, the only non-local segment of the exhibit honors the Native American baseball players so integral to the evolution of the sport.

Next up was a stop at the section showcasing the Dragon Boat community. The origins of the festival are highlighted, the traditions surrounding Dragon Boat racing and the connection to the Ithaca Asian American Association. The local festival was established in 2004 with the arrival of two 40-foot Dragon Boats from China, and local club members have competed in many international competitions.

A Sporting Chance will be on display for several more months, and I encourage everyone to carve out a couple of hours to take in as much as possible. It is a wonderful collaborative effort, one well worth your time.

Spring Brings Worth Symphony. Its principal conductor Performances is the well-known Robert Spano, also

by Final director of the summer Aspen Festival Two Cayuga in Colorado. She was director of orchestras Chamber Director at Cornell in 2022–2023.

Incidentally, all four Candidates candidates have been

T

By Jane Dieck m an n

he Cayuga Chamber Orchestra has faced an unusual season this year with the search underway for a new music director.

Four candidates, selected from a large field of applicants, were assigned a concert featuring a Beethoven symphony, a concerto with soloist, and an opening piece, chosen by the candidate. Two concerts took place last fall– conducted by finalists Jeffery Meyer, Guillaume Pirard– and two remain, in February and March.

The third candidate, Michelle Di Russo, conducts the CCO concert February 24. A native of Argentina, her parents are Italian.

She started out with dance studies at age three, then went on to voice and piano. She also played in musical theater and participated in opera productions. She came to the United States to study, and earned her MM degree at the University of Kentucky, and her doctoral degree in Orchestral Conducting at Arizona State University. She has worked as assistant conductor of the North Carolina, Portland, Vermont, and St Louis orchestras. And just recently, she was appointed associate conductor for two seasons starting 2024 at the Fort

Cayuga Chamber Orchestra “Beethoven and Beyond” February 24 conducted by Michelle Di Russo, Pre-concert chat 6:30 p.m., Concert 7:30 p.m.

Ford Hall, Ithaca College March 23 conducted by Octavio Más-Arocas Pre-concert chat 6:30 p.m., Concert 7:30 p.m.

Ford Hall, Ithaca College

Candidates Michelle DiRusso and Octavio Más-Arocas will lead the Cayuga Chamber before a decision is made among four final candidates.

connected with Ithaca, and Di Russo acknowledges fellow candidate Jeffery Meyer as one of her mentors. Among many awards, she has received a Dudamel fellowship, which means she trains for and conducts two concerts this season. They just happen to be scheduled two weeks before her concert here.

The week in between, she says, will be de voted to resting and quietly looking at scores.

She said she realizes that this is a heavy schedule, and if chosen, she would want to cut down on her commitments. She would, however, continue assisting in a program she started to help interested young women called Girls Who Conduct. She helps out when needed, speaking with high-schoolers, talking on Zoom, and in person with ensembles.

She said she will not participate in this summer’s Aspen Festival, as she needs July and August to rest, spend time with friends and family. She now lives in DC, with her husband, who I am told does the cooking. Where would she find time otherwise?

As for her concert here, she told me that her assigned symphony, Beethoven No. 2, is a favorite, one of the first she ever heard. Composed at the time of the Heiligenstadt Testament (October 1802), where Beethoven discloses that he is rapidly becoming deaf, this symphony seems energetic and happy, but also conveys his attempts at gathering hope and strength to face this dreadful disability. As for style, it reflects the ghosts of Haydn and Mozart, but also his aim to “expand his own form and personal language.”

Di Russo’s opening piece is Astor Piazzolla’s “Tangazo.” It is well known, and “I really like it, maybe because I am Argentinian.” As for the contrabass concerto by Andrés Martin, she knows neither the composer, coincidentally an Argentinian, nor the performing artist, Kebra-Seoun Charles, who hails from Miami.

Michelle, a proponent of new music, is “more than happy to do it ... . The conductor should make the piece come alive.” We in the audience can enjoy the ride.

She said she feels that a good part of her job is community building, bringing in

younger orchestras and listeners, to help them learn and expand their tastes. She wants to find a point of reference for us all, what this music is showing about today’s world.

The final candidate is Octavio Más-Arocas, whose concert will be March 23. A native of the province of Valencia in Spain, he comes 24 miles from the principal city Valencia, a small town in mountains called Buñol. He told me that it is known all over Spain for its music, that you hear instruments everywhere the town. “I studied the trumpet there and my teacher was one of the best in the country.”

Down in the city of Valencia, Octavio earned his BM and MM degrees from the Conservatory there. His DMA is from Bowling Green State University, and he also has a MFA from Bard College on the Hudson.

At present he is director of orchestras and heads the graduate school in conducting program at Michigan State University in East Lansing, Michigan, where he makes his home. He also leads three other orchestras: in Mansfield, Ohio, Marquette Symphony in Wisconsin, and a very small ensemble in Clinton, New York. He is one of several conductors in residence at the Cabrillo Festival and manages a conducting workshop there for students from around the world.

In the summer he is the principal conductor at the Interlochen Arts Academy, a premier music high school and has spent many summers working with its youth orchestra. He also directed the orchestras at Ithaca College, 2017–2020.

Some years ago the late Kurt Masur selected him for a major scholarship. Octavio practiced with Masur and talked with him and learned a lot, especially that there are “no shortcuts in music, no compromising.” The two grew close, Octavio spent hours at his home, helping him. Toward the end of his life (Masur died in 2015 from Parkinson’s), “he would forget practical details but would never forget the music.”

Masur also taught that when conducting “I must be part of the performance. I feel it

Arts&Entertainment

TWO FINALISTS TO GO

Contin u ed on Page 13

February 14 – 20, 2024 / The Ithaca Times

11

Dance

BEETHOVEN’S SECOND Saturday, Feb. 24 at 7:30 PM Ford Hall, Ithaca College

Purchase your tickets online or at the door!

For tickets and info:

CCOithaca.org

On Their Toes Ithaca Ballet Presents “WinterDance 2024”

By Pe te r Rothbar t

Michelle Di Russo, conductor

Kebra-Seyoun Charles, Contrabass

UNIQUE. LOCAL. ORIGINAL.

Get the new Ithaca.com App!

Brantley’s “Tiny Bubbles” closes the concert and ironically unleashes the most classical style, movement and costuming of the evening. (Photo: Provided)

T

he Ithaca Ballet has long since outgrown the limiting connotation of its name. Founded in 1959 and incorporated in 1961, the Ithaca Ballet is a both repertory dance company and a school embracing a variety of dance genres in both performance and practice. Saturday’s evening’s concert at the Hangar Theatre promises to demonstrate the company’s agility and training in

Ithaca Ballet’s WinterDance 2024: Saturday, February 17, 2024, 7:30 p.m., Hangar Theatre.

Tickets are $20 adults and $10 (12 and under) https://hangartheatre.org/box-office/ 607-273-ARTS (2787).

matching movement to music across a spectrum of dances old and new. While classical training remains at the core of the school, the performing company has drawn innovative choreographers from local and national sources, as well as professionally established dancers from its alumni ranks.

WinterDance is one of four performances presented by the ballet company each season, with the Nutcracker Ballet being the most visible and popular in the Ithaca community. The Nutcracker is a perennial success, this year drawing a near sell-out crowd of 2700 people over a 3-day run in the State Theatre. In the past, the Ithaca Ballet has presented other traditional dramatic ballets such as” Sleeping Beauty,” “Swan Lake,” “Giselle” and “Romeo and Juliet.” But as Artistic Director

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Dining

Three Meals, Seven Days Marriott’s Monks on the Commons Serves Breakfast, Burgers and Beer

By He nr y Stark

M

onks on the Commons is in the lobby of the Marriott Hotel just a few meters from The Ithaca Commons. The restaurant extends out from the registration desk and has a light, airy feeling and a pleasant décor with shiny black tabletops, cream-colored cushioned chairs, and red cloth napkins.

There’s overhead recessed lighting and the overall atmosphere is rather basic and unpretentious.

The capacity of the seating area is about four dozen and there’s a bar with room for about fifteen more.

Since Monks is in a hotel, it’s not surprising they serve breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

A cup of the soup du jour at lunch and dinner is $9 and a bowl is $12. One lunch I ordered the daily special: cheesy, potato, bacon soup because I like all those ingre dients. The soup was thick and creamy and chock full of skin-on potato chunks and a few diced carrots. However, it was barely warm and I couldn’t find any bacon.

When I brought it to the server’s attention, she cheerfully took it back to the kitchen.

When she returned, she admitted that the cook had forgotten to add bacon but enthusiastically exclaimed, “There’s plenty TWO FINALISTS TO GO contin u ed from page 11

when the audience is listening and aim for a magic time when we know we are hearing something beautiful and unique ... together.”

On his program is Beethoven’s Symphony No. 4. It is the least known and seems somewhat lost between the revolutionary “Eroica” and the famous and dramatic No. 5. Octavio will look for what will make it special for the audience. He wants us and the musicians to enjoy it. His chosen piece is “Banner” by acclaimed composer Jessie Montgomery.

“We need to hear American composers, and she is one of the voices of the new generation. What America needs is to recognize a lot of cultures coming

of bacon now!” There was, and it had been reheated.

After noticing that soup was the same price at lunch and dinner, I studied the two menus more closely and discovered that some of the items from the lunch menu also appear on the dinner menu and I’m happy to say, some of the prices of these items are not jacked up at dinner time with only slight variations.

One of these is Cheese Burger ($18).

Here’s the variation: lunchtime, Cheddar cheese, Applewood smoked bacon, lettuce, tomato, onions, garlic aioli, house cut fries, a pickle spear, and a potato bun are all included. At dinner, all of these are included for $18 however you’ll pay $4 more if you want the bacon.

Speaking of the cheeseburger, I’ve ordered it and it’s tasty. I can just get my mouth around it, and I like the variety of flavors in each bite. I do wish, however, they would add more cheese which is barely discernible and could add a lot to the flavor profile. I’d like to share with you something I learned from several visits that is not on the menu: If you, like me, are not a fan of fried potatoes, if you ask your server, you can substitute a small side salad or a cup of fresh fruit for the fries at no extra charge. Recently, the fruit

cup consisted mainly of diced melon and blueberries.

Another example of the same pricing at lunch and dinner is Spinach Feta, and Tomato Flatbread ($17). The dough is pleasantly thin and covered with a pizza sauce, Feta and Mozzarella cheeses, fire roasted tomatoes, spinach and a bit of garlic and was divided into eight convenient pieces.

The tomatoes give it a bit of a spicy accent but it’s mild enough that I think everyone would enjoy it.

Once, at dinner, I ordered Hot Honey Brussels Sprouts ($9) from the Communal Bites section of the menu. They were just a bit spicy and had a wonderful honey and pepper coating. I really liked them.

From the Fork and Knife section, I’ve ordered the Ribeye steak ($38). It came boneless. I prefer the bone in because it preserves moisture and flavor while cooking, however I understand that it’s more difficult to cook a steak with the bone in

because the meat next to the bone cooks more slowly and it’s more difficult to cook a bone-in steak evenly. This one was delicious with a zesty peppery overlay.

Also from the Fork and Knife section I’ve ordered “Lamb Chops” ($38). I asked the server what cut they were as I would not have selected shoulder chops and would have been pleased with loin. They were rib chops, so I ordered them and received two plump double chops and one single. I can’t remember ever having more flavorful lamb chops in Ithaca. However, I’m convinced that the “garlic mashed potatoes” on the plate never were exposed to the inside of a garlic bulb and I brought the al dente green beans home to cook a bit more.

Beverages: The wine menu, which is small but adequate, lists the winemaker, vintages, and locations. Here, however, prices do increase at dinnertime when

together in its music ...we are all connected, and we need to respect each other.” The concerto is by Prokofiev, the Violin Concerto No. 2 in g minor—a great piece—with Canadian violinist Lara St. John, whom Octavio does not know.

She began playing at age 2, and entered the Curtis Institute in Philadelphia at 13.

After graduating she moved to Moscow (then in the Soviet Union), was youngest post-grad student at the Moscow Conservatory. While not on tour, she is based in NYC. Both candidates made it clear that if chosen they would be leading an exceptional ensemble of musicians; both would use soloists from away and from the orchestra itself. Both would poll audiences about repertory (each had a different method), both wanted community

involvement, ranging from older people to school children.

For these two, the week of the Saturday concert will be very busy. Among the planned activities are a brunch with the Board of Directors, interviews with Bill Snyder on WSKG classical (at 92.1 FM) and with WCNY radio in Syracuse. On Tuesday between 5 and 7 p.m. will be a Meet and Greet with the Ithaca community—subscribers, friends of the CCO, interested musicians—in the History Center, 110 North Tioga Street. On Wednesday a meeting with CCO Managing Director Sarah Chandler; an evening rehearsal with strings only. On Thursday, because the date is right, Michelle will attend the orchestra’s afternoon Family Concert and Story Time at the Tompkins County Public Library, with a woodwind quintet

and a Tango Red Riding Hood; evening rehearsal with full orchestra. Friday brings a meeting and luncheon with the Executive Committee of the Board, the concerto soloist, and Interim Director Grant Cooper; evening full orchestra rehearsal. Saturday is dress rehearsal from 11 to 1, pre-concert chat at 6:45, and concert at 7:30 p.m. A party afterward. On Sunday a wrap-up breakfast; Michelle meets with youth orchestra members to hear their feedback about the concert.

Audiences can fill out surveys after each concert. The CCO’s next conductor will be announced at the final concert of the season, on May 19. Making a choice will be a real challenge, considering the wealth of talent and versatility and sheer musical understanding we have experienced. This is an exciting time indeed.

Monks is located on the Commons is in the lobby of the Marriott Hotel. (Photo: Kenneth Waterhouse)

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February 14 – 20, 2024 / The Ithaca Times

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Books

Remember Who You Are: Triumph Over Adversity

By Nicol e Wil li am s

“

I am an individual with a zest for life and a deep passion for weaving together the realms of science, creativity, and personal resilience,” Katie Dickieson a Cornell Alum and author of “Remember Who the F*ck You Are: Who Were You, Before the World Told You What to Be,” explained. Katie’s Dickieson spent her formative years in the Detroit suburbs. She later moved to South Florida and found her way into the Ivy League realm as she pursued graduate studies at Cornell University in Ithaca.

“During my tenure at Cornell, the university championed the tagline “Break the Rules,” a mantra that immediately struck a chord with me. It wasn’t just a slogan; it felt like a validation and an embrace

of who I had been all my life. Learning about this ethos brought a profound sense of safety and almost felt like a formal endorsement of my inherent nature and my life’s choices. It was as if Cornell was not just permitting but encouraging me to continue being my authentic self, pushing boundaries and challenging norms,” Katie indicated.

Katie describes herself as a multifaceted individual, seamlessly blending science and creativity. A licensed hair stylist in two states, a certified holistic health coach, and a master’s graduate in biomedical engineering from Cornell University, Katie’s journey has been extraordinary.

Her recent memoir, “Remember Who the F*ck You Are,” is more than a book; it’s a testament to authenticity, resilience, and the power of perseverance.

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The decision to pen her memoir was not a sudden one for Katie. “I’ve been writing the book on and off my entire life,” she reflected.

“There’s nothing wrong with feeling your emotions. For a very long time, I felt like I had to make something of myself so I could prove I mattered.”

Katie’s desire to attend Cornell was fueled by the belief that it would make her more important as a person. Yet, her time in Ithaca during the pandemic forced her Katie Dickieson is a Cornell Alum and author of “Remember Who the F*ck You Are: Who Were You, to slow down and Before the World Told You What to Be.” understand herself better. “Ithaca has “It’s okay to be vulnerable, it’s okay to had the greatest impact on my life, out of all the other places I’ve lived. It taught me stand up for yourself. When you’re able to resilience and appreciation for my alone stand up for yourself, you’re able to help others.” time,” she shared.

Katie’s journey of self-discovery The memoir delves into Katie’s journey, celebrating authenticity and resilincludes being diagnosed with autism, ADHD, PMDD, PTSD, and conversion ience, speaks directly to people in the LGBTQ+ community and members of marginalized groups. Katie emphasizes, Contin u ed on Page 15

her life, and her legacy lives on forever…I think we all can stand on her shoulders to do greater things for our community.” He added, “I always felt like us in higher education had a responsibility to give back to our community, and I hope in some small way I was able to do that.”

Whitehead continued, saying, “I have the unique opportunity to use music to bring people together. It’s a language we can all understand, even if we do not all speak the same language.” Reflecting on

the honor, he said, “Words can’t express the tremendous appreciation I have for this award, and I will cherish it for a lifetime.”

Also in attendance were members of Diane Sam’s family, who spoke about her dedication to social justice and advocacy for marginalized communities. Jack Nelson, one of Sands’ children, acknowledged the importance of continuing this annual recognition and congratulated Dr. Whitehead, emphasizing the expectations of

sustained, impactful contributions.

“I just want to thank the Common Council for allowing us to continue to do this each and every year,” Nelson said. He added, “I just want to say congratulations [to Dr. Whitehead]. Thank you very much for what you do.”

The ceremony also paid tribute to past recipients no longer with us, including Dr. James Aeterna, Mrs. Francis Eastman, Abraham Lee, Jackie Melton Scott, and Kirby Edmonds.

the newly-opened medical office facilities on the campus,” Lewis said.

Miriam Zinter, Vice President and Mortgage Officer at the Community Preservation Corporation, emphasized the importance of affordable housing in fostering community stability. “An affordable place to call home is the cornerstone of community stability, offering residents not just a place to live, but a foundation upon which they can build secure and fulfilling lives,” Zinter said. She added, “The Marketview Apartments brings that stability and opportunity to the Ithaca community and the families who call it home.”

STORY HOUSE ITHACA “Presentation Night” at Deep Dive bar, with “very brief talks by non-experts” on surprising topics (for example, the efficacy of four-way traffic stops). At “The Listening Room” at Autumn Leaves Books, guest curators present selections for discussion from podcasts, radio programs, and audio art. “Improv Night” at Deep Dive features the Third Place Theater group taking stories from attendees and creating scenes around them. “Posterity Project,” modeled on NPR’s StoryCorps,

records conversations between friends and family members about their relationships and lives; in February, sessions are held every Thursday in the reading room at Buffalo Street Books.

Miller sees a particularly important role for Story House in the current political climate, citing the resurgence of “Trump despair” and the need to “create human contact to break down trust barriers. Otherwise, society goes haywire. Connective tissue degrades. It’s maintained by human contact,” Miller said. “Sharing with people is healthy. It’s therapeutic.”

Cindy Reid explained, “Our other concerts are presented at the Hangar Theatre for a more intimate and specialized setting.”

The company’s upcoming offering, “WinterDance 2024,” presents 8 short ballets, most defying any simple stylistic classification. Only one is en-pointe, some are choreographed as solos or ensembles.

Others are traditional pairings of male and female dancers, one is a world premiere, another a “live” premiere, and three are revivals.

Perhaps the most ambitious dance of the evening will be Samantha Iddings’ “Solstice,” a four-vignette ensemble piece referencing the four seasons. Contempo-

rary composer Max Richter reimagines Baroque composer Antonio Vivaldi’s “Four Seasons.” Contemporary style markers such as loops find their way into Richter’s re-composition while he discards much of the thematic material from the Vivaldi’s masterpiece and reorchestrates it. Reid describes the choreography as a classical work with contemporarymodern moves, reflecting the dual musical influences.

Three of the works were choreographed by Larry Brantley, longtime dancer, choreographer, and general manager of the Ithaca Ballet. Opening the program is his “Tilyou’s Revenge,” an ensemble work that Reid describes as, “…a spooky carnival piece,” reflecting Brantley’s impressions of Coney Island in New

York City. His second work, “Wintersong” is being revived after a 10-year hiatus.

Brantley’s “Tiny Bubbles” closes the concert and ironically unleashes the most classical style, movement and costuming of the evening. The first tutus arrive along with the sturdy support of pointe shoes.

But the entire work and delivery is, as Reid describes it, “…a spoof, an irreverent look at classical ballet.”

“To Them,” a solo danced by Maria Valencia-Alvarez was choreographed by Kara Skrubis. Alvarez and Skrubis collaborated over Zoom during the height of the Covid pandemic to rework the piece. Originally streamed as a virtual dance shot on an empty Hangar Theatre stage, Saturday’s production will be the first “live” premier of the work.

The collaboration continues as Valencia-Alvarez also solos in Skrubis’s other work, “Everything” set to the music of Michael Bublé. Slipping into the choreographer role, Valencia-Alvarez draws from the music of the Beatles and Cirque du Soleil to create her own ensemble piece entitled, “A Journey, A Voyage, A Tour.”

Amanda Moretti’s work, titled “AndanteS,” finds 8 dancers, 4 chairs and a pantomimed piano evoking a sense of musical chairs set to music by the Romantic-era composer Camille Saint-Saëns.

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.

THREE MEALS, SEVEN DAYS

REMEMBER WHO YOU ARE

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glasses of whites range from $11-$19, and bottles from $47-$70. The spread of red wine glasses is $12-$19 for a glass and $50$73 for a bottle.

There is a very good offering of beer in cans and bottles ($6-$8). I’m not able to comment on what is available on tap as the menu advises “Check with your server for local & regional rotating selections.”

disorder. This revelation has fueled her passion for mental health advocacy and celebrating neurodivergent minds. “Seeking help from mental health practitioners is helpful because they help you understand yourself,” Katie asserts.

Having faced significant challenges and embracing neurodiversity, Katie offered valuable advice to those who

identify with her story. “Work on healing yourself, learn how to create strong boundaries, and effectively communicate,” she advocated.

Gratitude serves as Katie’s compass, influencing her outlook and becoming a guiding force in facing adversity. In her entrepreneurial venture, Wing, Katie aims to disrupt the online dating world by promoting connections founded on shared passions and authentic engagements rather than mere appearances. “Wing aligns with the themes of my book by

encouraging genuine human interactions,” she emphasized.

Looking ahead, Katie envisions exploring uncharted territories and utilizing her experiences to make a lasting impact on the world. Her transformative journey is not just confined to the pages of her memoir but extends to every venture and connection she embraces.

In the face of trauma and adversity, Katie wants to remind people to remember who they are and embrace the journey of self-discovery.

DR. BARUCH J. WHITEHEAD contin u ed from page 3

Yair Dalal that saw young musicians from Muslim and Jewish communities unite to perform the “Peace Cantata” at the 2006 Martin Luther King Celebration at Ithaca College.

After receiving the award, Whitehead expressed his gratitude, saying, “Diane Sam’s did so many wonderful things in MARKETVIEW APARTMENTS contin u ed from page 4

community; I hope more projects continue to take a similar approach to Marketview.”

Former City of Ithaca Mayor Laura Lewis celebrated the opening at MarketView Apartments, emphasizing the project's positive impact on those most in need. “This component of the overall Cayuga Park project will serve those most in need in our community. It is fantastic that residents will have a new, high-quality, energy-efficient home close to so many amenities, including ON THEIR TOES contin u ed from page 12

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February 14 – 20, 2024 / The Ithaca Times

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