February 21, 2024

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

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Life-saving care for blocked veins, arteries delivered at Cayuga Heart and Vascular Center

T

hrombosis is a serious complication of heart disease that occurs when blood clots form inside blood vessels or a heart chamber. The blood clots can block the flow of blood and cause life-threatening problems such as heart attack, stroke, deep vein thrombosis, and pulmonary embolisms.

There are several types of thrombosis. The two most common are venous thrombosis, when the blood clot blocks a vein, and arterial thrombosis, when the blood clot blocks an artery. Despite heart disease being the leading cause of death in the United States, more and more people with CAD are living long and active lives thanks to remarkable advances in diagnosis and treatment.

Both venous and arterial thrombosis are treated at the Cayuga Heart and Vascular Center. The Center has developed a highly skilled team of noninvasive and invasive cardiologists, all of whom are Fellows of the American College of Cardiology. They provide state-of-the-art care to the community and 24-hour cardiac-care coverage at Cayuga Medical Center and are on-call at Schuyler Hospital.

What are the symptoms of thrombosis?

The symptoms of thrombosis vary by person and may look like other blood disorders or health problems. Thrombosis can also occur without noticeable symptoms. Always see your healthcare provider for a diagnosis. Symptoms may include: • Pain, cramping, or soreness in one leg, usually the calf or inner thigh • Leg or arm swelling • Chest pain

• Numbness or weakness on one side of the body • Sudden change in mental state • Cold arm or leg • Change in skin color on the leg

What causes thrombosis?

Venous thrombosis may be caused by: • Disease or injury to the leg veins • Not being able to move around (immobility) • A broken bone (fracture) • Certain medicines • Obesity • Inherited disorders, or a greater likelihood of having

a certain disorder based on your genes • Autoimmune disorders that make it more likely your blood will clot • Medicines that increase your risk of clotting (such as certain birth control medicines)

Arterial thrombosis is usually caused by arteriosclerosis, a hardening of the arteries. This process takes place when fatty or calcium deposits build up on the walls of the arteries and cause them to thicken and narrow. Fatty material called plaque may build up in the artery walls and can suddenly burst (rupture), followed by a blood clot.

2 The Ithaca Times / February 21 – 27, 2024

If arterial thrombosis occurs in the arteries that supply blood to the heart muscle (coronary arteries), it can lead to a heart attack. When arterial thrombosis blocks a blood vessel in the brain, it may cause a stroke.

Who is at risk for thrombosis?

Older age, smoking, excess weight, inactivity, and a family history of thrombosis put you at greater risk for both venous and arterial thrombosis.

Risk factors for venous thrombosis may include: • Hormone therapy or birth control pills • Pregnancy • Injury to a vein, such as from surgery, a broken bone, or other trauma • Lack of movement, such as

after surgery or on a long trip • Inherited blood clotting disorders • A central venous catheter • Some health conditions, such as cancer, heart disease, lung disease, or Crohn’s disease

How is thrombosis diagnosed?

Your healthcare provider will do a physical exam and ask about your health history and symptoms. Other tests may include: • Ultrasound. This non-invasive test uses sound waves to create images of blood flow in your veins.

• Blood tests. These may include tests to see how well your blood can clot.

• Venography. For this test, a dye is injected into a vein in your foot or ankle. It makes

it easier to see your veins on X-rays that are then taken to show blood flow and look for clots.

• MRI, MRA, or CT scan. The imaging procedure used will depend on the type and location of the blood clot • Angiography. This imaging test uses a contrast dye to look at the blood vessels.

How is thrombosis treated?

Treatments that may include: • Blood thinners (anticoagulants) • Thin tubes (catheters) to widen the affected vessels • A wire mesh tube (stent) that

holds a blood vessel open and stops it from closing • Medicines to interfere with or dissolve blood clots • Surgery to remove the blood clot

How can I prevent thrombosis?

You can reduce your thrombosis risk by: • Being active and exercising • Getting back to activity as soon as possible after surgery • Moving your legs during long trips • Quitting smoking

• Losing weight • Managing other health problems such as diabetes, high blood pressure, and high cholesterol

Cayuga Heart and Vascular Center can be reached at (607) 272-0460 and has offices at Cayuga Medical Center, Schuyler Hospital, 310 Taughannock Blvd., Ithaca; 2432 N. Triphammer Road, Ithaca; and 260 Tompkins St., Cortland.

Newsline

VOL. XLIII / NO. 77 / February 21, 2024 Serving 47,125 readers week ly

ON THE COVER:

Ithaca’s Free Tax Program Returns to Alleviate Financial Burden for Residents

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By M at t D ough e rt y

revamped free tax program aiming to benefit Ithaca residents is back and better than ever. The program is a result of collaborative efforts between Cornell, the Human Services Coalition, and the Tompkins County Public Library.

It is set to assist individuals with incomes of $79,000 or less in 2023, by offering various methods of tax preparation, ranging from self-preparation tools to in-person appointments with certified volunteers.

Cornell University Professor Thomas Godwin emphasized the program’s inclusivity, saying, “We can serve pretty much anybody.” The primary goal is to relieve the financial burden associated with tax preparation, particularly for those in the lower to middle-income bracket. The program ensures that individuals maximize their entitled tax credits and deductions while eliminating the costs typically associated with filing returns through online providers.

“We’ve got a full-featured self-preparation system that’s IRS certified, with no filing fees or additional costs,” Godwin explained. This self-preparation option provides a cost-effective alternative for individuals comfortable navigating the tax process independently.

For those seeking more hands-on assis-

The Tompkins County SPCA.

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

tance, the program offers in-person appointments. According to Godwin, “We’ll have a certified volunteer take and prepare their tax return end to end so that they don’t have to Cornell University Professor Thomas Godwin (left) speaking with TCPL digital librarian Tom Fredette. (Photo: Cornell) do anything with it. We do everything for them.” This personalized services, help sessions are conducted over service not only simplifies the tax-filing Zoom. In-person services are available at process but also adds a level of certainty, ensuring correct and accurate submissions. the downtown library every Tuesday from 12 to 4 pm, every Thursday from 2 to 7 pm The program’s main objective is to aluntil April 15, and select Saturdays leading leviate the burden of tax preparation costs up to the deadline. for lower to middle-income individuals.

Godwin provided a snapshot of the Godwin stressed the importance of maximizing tax credits and deductions, empha- program’s history, explaining that a sizing that the initiative also contributes to similar program was offered in the past eliminating the costs associated with filing by Alternatives Federal Credit Union, but that program ended in2021. The current returns through online providers. revival of the program is a collaborative efGodwin elaborated on the program’s fort between Cornell, the Human Services structure, explaining, “We’ve got the ability to answer questions for somebody who’s Coalition, and the TCPL. Funding from the IRS and support from Cornell have almost comfortable doing it themselves also played instrumental roles in bringing but might have a couple of questions. this initiative back to the community.

We can answer those questions at no Godwin concluded by directing cost.” This dual approach allows individuals to navigate the self-preparation process residents to the program’s website, saying, “They can get all the details at with the assurance of expert guidance, IthacaFreeTax.org.” The site serves as a further emphasizing the program’s comcomprehensive resource for community mitment to accessibility. members seeking information on the tax To cater to different preferences, the program, including eligibility criteria, program offers both online and in-person service details, and scheduling. options. For those opting for online

T a k e

N o t e

focus of the session will be on the Conservation Stewardship Program (CSP), the Environmental Quality Incentives Program (EQIP) and the Climate Resilient Farming program (CRF).

Note that this session is intended to support those who are ready for planning assistance from agency representatives to seek New York State or Federal funding. If you are interested in more general information about the programs that SWCD and NRCS manage, you should plan to attend the CCE Tompkins Ag Summit, to be held on March 18, where agency staff will provide overviews of the funding that is available. You can also contact SWCD and NRCS with questions at any time.

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT �������������������� 11 CINEMA ����������������������������������������� 12 MUSIC ��������������������������������������������� 13 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 .

X CCE Tompkins County to Host Office Hours with Agriculture Support Agencies Funding is available for local farmers to implement practices that help reduce runoff, increase soil health, sequester carbon and help soils hold water. Those with questions about state and federal grants available for these efforts are invited to drop-in office hours with local agencies from 2 to 4 pm, Friday, March 1, at the offices of Cornell Cooperative Extension (CCE) Tompkins County.

The Tompkins County Soil and Water Conservation District (SWCD) and Tompkins/ Cor tland/Schuyler Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS), in collaboration with CCE Tompkins, will be available and offering personalized support at this event. The

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NRCS: Contact Erin Kurtz erin.kurtz@ usda.gov or James Schleppenbach James.

Schleppenbach@usda.gov, or call (607) 257-2737.

SWCD: Contact Devin Cox dcox@tompkinsco.orgor Paul Gier PGier@tompkins-co.org, or call (607) 257-2340.

If there are particular topics that local farmers would like to see addressed in a session with SWCD and NRCS, please reach out and share. Planning for future events will be based on feedback and experience from this initial session. For questions or more information, Graham Savio, CCE Tompkins Agriculture and Horticulture Issue Leader, at gs695@cornell.edu.

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

February 21 – 27, 2024 / The Ithaca Times

3

INQUIRING Tompkins County Whole Health Launches Initiative to Tackle Homelessness PHOTOGRAPHER N e w s l i n e

By Ke nne th Wate rhou se

YOUR THOUGHTS ON THE PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE BEING REMOVED FOR ITHACA’S COMMON COUNCIL MEETINGS?

“I’m fine with it.”

– Teresa H.

“I disagree with it.”

– Michael R.

“I’m happy about it.”

– Casey M.

“I find it weird.”

– Harley W.

“We’re Americans and should pledge our allegiance to America.”

– Shey S.

and Substance Use Disorders

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By M at t D ough e rt y

n a move to address the pressing issues of homelessness and substance use disorders, Tompkins County Whole Health has announced a Request for Proposals (RFP) to develop and operate an Innovative Housing Solutions and Intensive Supports program.

This initiative aims to provide emergency housing and comprehensive support to Tompkins County residents currently experiencing or at risk of homelessness, particularly those with substance use or co-occurring mental health disorders. The program is set to receive approximately $1.03 million for a three-year pilot project.

The funding for this initiative comes from the New York State Opioid Settlement Fund, a series of payments to local governing units (LGUs) from significant drug companies responsible for creating the opioid crisis. With opioid-related deaths on the rise in the United States, Tompkins County Whole Health seeks to address this crisis locally by focusing on innovative housing solutions and intensive support.

According to data from the Tompkins County Continuum of Care, 60 individuals experienced unsheltered homelessness from May to September 2023. Additionally, the county accounted for 28 opioid overdose deaths in 2022, and there were 17 deaths by June 2023. Data for the rest of 2023 has not been released, but if trends continued at the same rate, there could have been a total of 34 opioid overdoses last year.

Frank Kruppa, Tompkins County Whole Health Commissioner, emphasized the urgency and significance of this initiative, stating, “This is one of the biggest issues facing our community. With this program, we have a chance to radically change how we get resources to people facing pressing substance use and mental health needs — primarily housing and supportive services.”

Kruppa highlighted the importance of addressing the housing crisis in the community, particularly for those dealing with mental health and substance use challenges. The initiative aims to identify individuals in crisis who are experiencing homelessness and swiftly provide housing, accompanied by crucial intensive services to stabilize them and prevent repeat home-

4 The Ithaca Times / February 21 – 27, 2024

lessness.

“This program is designed to identify those folks that are in crisis that are experiencing homelessness, get them rapidly housed, and most importantly provide intensive services to support them while they’re being housed to try to stabilize them and keep repeat homelessness from occurring,” Kruppa explained.

The funding for the program amounts to a little over $1 million, allocated over three years. Kruppa clarified that the Request for Proposal (RFP) is open to nonprofit organizations in the region interested in applying. The emphasis is on developing a comprehensive plan to achieve the outlined goals within the RFP. Kruppa pointed out that this initiative is distinct from the county’s previous process of reviewing opioid funds. In this case, the county has specified how the funds should be utilized, focusing on housing and support services. Kruppa expressed excitement about the collaborative partnership with the city of Ithaca, which has also received opioid settlement funds, emphasizing the joint effort to maximize impact.

When questioned about the scope of the opioid problem in Tompkins County, Kruppa emphasized the ongoing efforts to provide services and support for individuals suffering from opioid addiction, including plans for attracting staff to the new detox facility. “It’s significant. There’s a lot of different activities going on trying to support the people that are suffering from opioid addiction in our community, and it’s a big lift. I think we’re up for the task. We gotta keep plugging away at it,” Kruppa stated.

The Innovative Housing Solutions and Intensive Supports program has a broad scope, aiming to assist individuals with substance use or co-occurring mental health disorders who frequently engage with crisis response services or law enforcement. The Tompkins County Community Services Board (CSB), a volunteerled governing body, recommended and approved the use of the opioid settlement funds for this program based on local priorities outlined in the Tompkins County Local Services Plan and the Opioid Settlement Fund Approved Use of Funds and Priority Funding Areas.

Jane Lynch, Chair of the Community Services Board, expressed enthusiasm

Tompkins County Whole Health Commissioner, Frank Kruppa. (Photo: Tompkins County)

for the opportunity to enhance community services, stating, “The Community Services Board is pleased to present this opportunity to enhance community services in Tompkins County. We look forward to participating in the review process and supporting work that can positively impact the lives of our most vulnerable community members.”

To ensure the success of the program, Tompkins County Whole Health is seeking proposals from nonprofit organizations with proven track records in providing housing and case management for individuals facing homelessness and struggling with substance use or co-occurring mental health disorders. The selected organization will be responsible for designing, staffing, and operating the program during the three-year pilot period.

Deb Mohlenhoff, City Manager for the City of Ithaca, expressed excitement about collaborating with Tompkins County to fund this crucial program, highlighting the necessity of joint efforts to address root causes and support individuals with cooccurring severe substance use and mental health disorders. Mohlenhoff stated, "The City of Ithaca is excited to pool our opioid settlement dollars with Tompkins County to fund this crucial program.”

Mohlenhoff continued saying, “Collaboration with our County partners is the only way for the City to begin to address the root causes and provide crucial programs to help break the cycle of crisis and support people with serious co-occurring substance use and mental health disorders in achieving their personal recovery Contin u ed on Page 7

UPS&DOWNS

N e w s l i n e

Tompkins County Sheriff’s Office Unveils Use of Force Dashboard for Enhanced Transparency

The Greater Ithaca Activities Center hosted its annual Black History Month Talent Show on February 16, at the Historic State Theatre. This year's celebration featured the diverse talents of the GIAC Jumpers and Leadership group ballet, Mbusi, the Dororthy Cotton Singers, Cornell Majorettes, Sing Trece, Destiny La Vibe, Stephan Hernandez, G-Quan and the Global Creative Family, and more.

By M at t D ough e rt y

emphasized the importance of sharing information on the utilization of force, he Tompkins County Sheriff ’s Office highlighting the agency’s dedication to responsible policing practices. has recently unveiled its Defensive The released data for 2023 reveals that Action (Use of Force) dashboard.

Following the earlier release of the C.A.R.E. out of the 17,796 total interactions deputies had with the public, a “show of force” or Team dashboard on January 26, this new “use of force” was employed in only 0.37% tool aims to provide the community with of cases, which amounts to 65 incidents. detailed insights into law enforcement inActual force was used in a mere 0.23% of interactions with residents by compiling data teractions, totaling 41 about the utilization incidents throughout of force and making it the year. This indicates available to the public. a significantly low inciThe dashboard, dence of force relative which can be accessed to the number of comhere, was completed in munity interactions collaboration with the and arrests conducted Tompkins County Inby the Sheriff ’s Office. formation Technology According to a stateServices Department ment from the Sheriff’s and offers comprehenOffice announcing the sive data on instances dashboard, most of the where law enforcement use of force incidents officers employed a occurred during at“show of force” or — Sheriff Derek Osborne tempts to make an actual “use of force” arrest, underscoring during interactions the challenges faced by law enforcement with the public. The dashboard aims to adofficers during such critical situations. Sheriff dress the public’s need for clarity surroundOsborne attributed the low numbers to the ing law enforcement practices and promote high-quality work of deputies, their extensive a more transparent relationship between the de-escalation training, and their positive community and the Sheriff ’s Office. relationships with the public.

Sheriff Derek Osborne expressed pride “When a defensive action becomes necesin the agency’s commitment to transparsary based on a perpetrator’s actions, I am ency, stating, “I am proud of the caring confident that it is performed fairly and with attitude our members exhibit during even the minimum amount of force required,” the most trying of involvements, most of Sheriff Osborne said. Osborne continued by which result in successful de-escalation and a peaceful resolution.” Sheriff Osborne saying that the Sheriff ’s Department com-

T

Ups

“When a defensive action becomes necessary based on a perpetrator’s actions, I am confident that it is performed fairly and with the minimum amount of force required.”

The dashboard aims to address the public’s need for clarity surrounding law enforcement practices and promote a more transparent relationship between the community and the Sheriff’s Office.

Downs

Tompkins County Legislator and Candidate for State Senate, Mike Sigler, is a plaintiff along with Elise Stefanik and others in a lawsuit to try to overturn early voting in New York State.

Tompkins County Sheriff Derek Osborne.

(Photo: Provided)

mits to ensuring that the use of force is only employed when necessary and in accordance with established protocols.

The dashboard not only provides statistical information but also includes details on the demographics of those involved, the municipality, the type of incident, and the level of force used. According to the dashboard, out of the 41 incidents where force was used, it was used against white residents 73% of the time, Black residents 22% of the time, and Asian residents 5% of the time.

Even though Black residents only make up 6.5% of Ithaca’s total population according to the Census, more than 20% of use-of-force incidents involve Black residents. In comparison, Asian residents account for 15.7% of the population but only 5% of use-of-force incidents.

Additionally, the Town of Ithaca is the municipality that reported the most frequent use of force incidents, and the Village of Cayuga Heights saw the least incidents of force being used.

In an effort to enhance accessibility, the dashboard is accompanied by the Sheriff ’s Office’s policies related to the use of force, providing the public with a comprehensive understanding of the guidelines followed by law enforcement officers.

Looking ahead, the Sheriff ’s Office has committed to regularly updating the dashboard, with the 2024 data related to Defensive Action Reports set to be published soon.

The information will be refreshed monthly, reinforcing the agency’s ongoing dedication to transparency and accountability.

Sheriff Osborne expressed appreciation for the collaborative effort with the Tompkins County Information Technology Services Department, acknowledging their role in making this transparency initiative possible.

HEARD&SEEN Heard

Ithaca Car-Share is expected to re-launch their services sometime in March. More information will be available on the re-launch soon.

Seen

Buffalo Street Books saw dozens of people show up in support of a ceasefire poetry reading on February 18. Several poets and community members read their own works and poems from Palestinian writers. The reading was a fundraiser for Helping Hands for Relief and Development.

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 think other City Departments that are short staffed, like DPW, should receive a similar hiring incentive as IPD? 47.6% Yes. 47.6% No. 4.8% I don’t care.

N ext Week ’s Q uestion :

Are you excited to stuff your face with Chili at this year’s Chili Cook-Off on March 2nd?

Visit ithaca.com to submit your response.

February 21 – 27, 2024 / The Ithaca Times

5

GUEST OPINION

RE: Regulating Short Term Rentals

By Ja s on Eva n s

I

think it’s important to discuss the supposition behind Sonali’s title “AirBnB Drives Up Housing Costs for Us All, Let’s Regulate it.” Can regulations reduce rent?

New York State routinely ranks worst or near-worst in surveys on economic freedom, taxes, and regulatory burden.

Short term rentals pale in comparison to these injustices on housing costs.

A 2020 University of Pennsylvania study “The Effect of Home-Sharing on House Prices and Rents” found that “a 1% increase in Airbnb listings leads to a 0.018% increase in the rental rate...” and that this “translates to an annual increase of $9 in monthly rent...” for median zip codes.

Many economists point to supply as the major culprit behind rising housing costs. James Barron writing for the New York Times states “In 1965, the typical New York City household spent about 20 percent of its income on rent, according to a survey conducted by the city. From 2011 to 2011, that number was close to 35 percent”, and that “[the shortage of new housing] is fueled by years of slug-

gish construction compared with other American cities. The city has issued fewer building permits per resident over most of the past decade than Boston, Austin and San Franciso...”.

We have similar issues locally, although I’m skeptical with how familiar Sonali is with Ithaca because this exact same op-ed appears in the Boston Herald and Urbana Illinois Sentinel. Ithaca has a longstanding acute shortage of homes and many of our municipalities have labyrinth zoning codes greater than 50 years old. And while the more modern “New Neighborhood Code” has good intentions, are we really going to build a new Fall Creek or other beautiful neighborhood when significantly smaller pocket neighborhoods take as long as a decade to break soil? When even modest home improvements such as garages or accessory dwellings have to go in front of the Zoning Board for approval? Or when trivialities such as closet lighting and the size of windows are tightly regulated by the Ithaca Energy Code? Read for example Brian Crandall’s article in the Ithaca Voice “Town of Ithaca seeks ‘quaint Contin u ed on Page 15

The Talk at

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR Think Before Closing Seneca Meadows

“

To our local and state legislators: I have been following the various articles in the papers concerning the Seneca Meadows landfill located in the town of Seneca Falls. I used to live near that area, Town of Fayette, back in the mid 1980s when they were first talking about what type of facility to have to deal with the trash/waste problem that was developing at the time.

It was debated between having a recyclingincinerator separation systemsimilar to the Onondaga County facility or a large managed county landfill. It was decided to go with the county managed landfill.

Now today, we are all looking at a huge mountain of trash that nobody wants because it causes a certain amount of pollution and it stinks. It also encompasses all the trash from numerous cities around the state including NYC. This is a result of past poor decisions made by previous legislators through the years to allow this to happen.

Point is the SMI landfill is not going away just by closing it down. The problem of dealing with the approximately 6,000 tons of daily trash going there is not going to suddenly disappear.

This leaves us with what to do next.

Before we close down this or any other landfills in the area we need to figure out where is all this trash going to go. It’s similar to someone deciding to shut down the local sewage treatment plant because it stinks! I don’t think anyone would vote for that!

There needs to be a plan of action put into place as to what’s going to happen with all this trash if we close these landfills. I haven’t read any plans as to what to do about this or what happens next. Let’s think before we act and not end up with another bad decision down the road.

A concerned citizen would like to see more discussion about what’s next.” — Mike Roenke, Trumansburg

Ithaca Jewish Congregation Calls for a Ceasefire

“

We write as some of the members of Congregation Tikkun v’Or, a Reform Jewish community in Ithaca with a commitment to community, spirit and

6 The Ithaca Times / February 21 – 27, 2024

justice. We have been concerned about the Israel/Palestine conflict for many years.

Some of us have lived in Israel, and many have friends and relatives living there now.

Many of us have Palestinian friends. The current war touches us more personally than other conflicts in the world.

We call upon people of all beliefs and backgrounds- Jewish, Christian, Muslim, Buddhist, and secular humanists- to take a stand for peace and justice by calling for an immediate multilateral ceasefire in the war in Israel and Gaza, the return of all hostages, humanitarian aid for the Palestinians of Gaza, and a process of negotiating a sustainable way to share or divide the land of Israel/ Palestine that honors the human rights and national aspirations of both peoples.

Before October 7, a majority of Israeli Jews and American Jews were already deeply disturbed by the plans of the current coalition government that Benjamin Netanyahu leads. After the brutal attacks on Israelis near the southern border with Gaza, many Jews felt that retaliation was justified. While we share deep concern for survivors, the families of the Israeli victims of the attack, and of those taken hostage, we yearn for safety and peace for all Israelis and Palestinians.

There is no military solution to this conflict. In the months since Hamas’ October 7 attack, Israel has killed over 28,000 innocent civilians, destroyed infrastructure such as hospitals and schoolsand displaced over 80% of Palestinians living in Gaza. The ferocity and Indiscriminate nature of the Israeli attack prompted the International Court of Justice to rule, in response to a brief by SouthAfrica, that Israel may be committing genocide. The court, however, did not demand a ceasefire.

We believe that the Israeli assault on Gaza will not, in the end, obtain the release of the Israeli hostages or keep Israelis safe.The brutality of Israel’s treatment of Palestinians did not begin on Oct 7. The cycle of retaliation must stop.

It’s not too late to stand for a livable future for Israelis and Palestinians. But we need to do what we can to stop the killing — as soon as possible–if there is to be a just and lasting peace. Our prophetic tradition demands that we as Jewish communities stand up for a peaceful and just path forward for both Israelis and Palestinians. The first step to any solution is a permanent ceasefire.

This moment calls for leadership with the ability to think creatively about what will be best for all the people of the region and the world. Contact the White House, Contin u ed on Page 10

GUEST OPINION

GUEST OPINION

The Story of the First Black Ithaca Common Council Member

Why We Need to Close Seneca Meadows

By L e a Webb , Stat e Se nat or N Y-52

O

By M a rjor i e O l d s a n d M e l is s a Hol l a n d

M

elissa Holland’s recent story about growing up in Ithaca generated an unusual amount of attention. Melissa modestly attributes that to her large global extended family who read the local papers, use social media, and know how to search the web.

When I asked Melissa over From left to right: front row Melissa Holland (black shirt), Terri Holland Lewis (flower print shirt), Sharon Holland Loucks breakfast to share more about her (mickey mouse t-shirt). Back row: Jerry Holland father, Jerome Holland II’s life, this is what she said: attending Cornell University. There, he “My Mom, Pat Scott Holland Dean played on Cornell’s Football team where and my Father, Jerome Holland II, were he was the first black team member to be both born in Ithaca, N.Y.” My Dad’s famnamed All-American in 1937 and 1938.” ily has been in Tompkins County longer.

His mother, Madeline Small Holland, was (Wikipedia https://en.wikipedia.org › wiki born in Ithaca in 1909. Her parents moved › Jerome_H._Holland) “After graduation, Grandpa Holland to Ithaca from Elmira after migrating remarried, expanded his family, and went from North Carolina and Virginia.” on to make a name for himself through“Grandma Holland attended South Hill out the world, as an educator and colSchool and graduated from Ithaca High. lege president, but his Tompkins County She received her teaching degree from Cornell University and was a charter member of connections had deep roots. We recently traced his direct line to the Town of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Cornell chapCaroline 1840 Census. Grandpa Holland’s ter. Grandma Holland worked as a nursery grandmother, Sarah Louisa Criss Holschoolteacher, while raising her 2 kids as a land, was born in the Town of Caroline single parent. My Grandmother Madeline in 1850. She moved into Ithaca and lived Small Holland was a founding member of with Judge B.G. Ferris’ family before she Southside Community Center, and a 2nd was 10 years old. Louisa married Robert Ward Republican Committee member. In later years, she was selected by Calvary Bap- Holland Sr. and remained in Ithaca for the rest of her life.” tist Church as a “Mother of the Church.”

“Dad’s sister, Pam Holland Curry “My Dad’s father, Jerome Holland, was Harvey, also contributed to the Ithaca born and raised in Auburn, NY before Community. She was a graduate of Cornell University ‘67, MA ‘74.

She then worked as the Director of Higher Education Opportunity Program (HEOP)/ Educational Opportunity Program (EOP) during the late 1970’s, and continued working with Cornell for many more years after relocating to Chicago.”

“Daddy made his mark in the Ithaca community before relocating to Onondaga County in the mid1970’s. He graduated from Ithaca High School ‘60 and received a BA From left to right (from shortest to tallest): Berie Milton, Melvin Scott, and Jerry Holland.

Contin u ed on Page 14

ne of your readers directed a question to me in last week’s letters to the editor — where will our garbage go if Seneca Meadows, New York’s largest landfill, shuts down?

This reader was responding to my call to permanently close the landfill and for the Governor and the Department of Environmental Conservation to reject the landfill’s Texas-based, for-profit operator’s application for a new permit to grow its footprint and extend its operations. I can imagine there may be other constituents who have similar questions on this proposal, so I wanted to take the time to address them here.

Landfills are a known threat to human and environmental health and a major contributor to climate change, and trash incineration was banned in the Finger Lakes by the State, due to concerns about its impact on the overall health of our community and the local economy. Given

INITIATIVE TO TACKLE contin u ed from page 4

goals.” She added, “The City of Ithaca looks forward to reviewing innovative program proposals from our talented and committed partners in the supportive housing sector.”

Collaboration with our County partners is the only way for the City to begin to address the root causes and provide crucial programs to help break the cycle of crisis and support people with co-occurring severe substance use and mental health disorders in achieving their personal recovery goals.

Randy Brown, Tompkins County Legislator and liaison to the CSB emphasized the importance of an all-encompassing approach when addressing substance use disorder, mental health, and homelessness. Brown expressed confidence in the engaged organizations and individuals working on this initiative to design an impactful program.

Brown stated, “I believe we have to use an ‘all of the above’ approach when addressing substance use disorder, mental health, and homelessness. I’m excited that this program will look at the intersection of these issues, and I’m confident in the organizations and individuals engaged in this work to design an impactful program.”

that context, I believe we need to be forward-thinking and ask ourselves: how can we reduce our waste production to move towards a healthy and sustainable future for New York?

I’m proud to say that we have a plan for that — one that moves away from landfills and utilizes dumps as a last resort. The recently released Solid Waste Management Plan maps out a strategy to prioritize more sustainable waste management practices and emphasizes reducing the amount of waste sent to landfills, which is achievable through legislation that will ensure that corporations have comprehensive recycling plans.

We need to take action immediately.

New York deserves better, and closing Seneca Meadows would signal that we are committed to undoing our unsustainable throwaway culture. I challenge all of us to rethink the questions we’re asking, the norms we’re accepting, and the future we want for our state.

The program’s timeline includes a proposal submission deadline of 2 PM on Friday, February 23rd, with the final award announcement set for Friday, March 15th, 2024. Interested organizations can access the complete Request for Proposals and submit bid materials online at the Tompkins County page on BidNetDirect or NYS Contract Reporter. Organizations without internet access can contact the Purchasing Division via email at purchase@tompkinsco.org or by telephone at (607) 274-5500 for further instructions.

Regarding the application process, Kruppa detailed that it’s a one-time RFP, and they are looking for one successful applicant. While subcontracts may be considered, the focus is on identifying a primary entity through the RFP process.

He emphasized the importance of sustainability, indicating that there is continuing funding associated with the initiative, albeit in smaller amounts over time.

This funding opportunity aligns with Tompkins County’s commitment to preventing and healing the trauma of the opioid crisis in the community. The Tompkins County Legislature recently approved a series of grant awards to community organizations aimed at Contin u ed on Page 15

February 21 – 27, 2024 / The Ithaca Times

7

Allegations of Mismanagement at SPCA Prompt Calls for Investigation

By M att Dougherty

To m p k i n s C o u n t y S P C A D i r e c t o r J i m B o u r d e r au h a s d e n i e d a l l e g at i o n s t h at t h e s h e lt e r i s m a k i n g i r r e s p o n s i b l e e u t h a n a s i a d e c i s i o n s , a n d s ay s t h at a l l s ta f f m e m b e r s a r e f u l ly q ua l i f i e d f o r t h e i r j o b s . ( P h o t o : T C S P C A)

T

he Tompkins County Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (TCSPCA) is currently under scrutiny as allegations of mismanagement and ethical concerns have been brought to light by a group of anonymous employees.

A letter, addressed to the TCSPCA Board of Directors, paints a troubling picture of leadership issues, questionable euthanasia decisions, and a lack of community focus at the shelter.

At the heart of the allegations is SPCA Director Jim Bouderau, who has been accused of fostering an atmosphere of hostility within the organization. The anonymous employees claim that Bouderau responds dismissively and condescendingly to employees and volunteers advocating for animals. The allegations indicate a potential breakdown in effective leadership and communication at the shelter, and are currently under investigation by the SPCA Board of Directors.

The Ithaca Times received several complaints about the shelter, but most wanted

S e v e r a l a n o n y m o u s v o l u n t e e r s a n d e m p l oy e e s h av e r e ac h e d o u t t o t h e It h ac a Ti m e s a l l e g i n g t h at t h e T C S P C A i s m a k i n g i r r e s p o n s i b l e e u t h a n a s i a d e c i s i o n s , w h i l e l ac k i n g q ua l i f i e d p e r s o n n e l . ( P h o t o : K e n n e t h Wat e r h o u s e)

Perhaps the most disturbing claims reto remain anonymous because they feared retaliation from management. A longtime volve around the supposedly “no kill” shelvolunteer said, “I have seen volunteers ter’s euthanasia decisions. The letter alleges that healthy animals, forced to resign for deemed “unadoptdisagreeing with the able” by Bouderau, director. Many hardhave been schedworking employees uled to be euthanized have left because the without proper evaludirector has not done ation, behavioral inhis job in properly tervention, or considdirecting the shelter.” eration of alternative Another volunteer solutions. The decisaid, “The formerlysion-making process regular practice of is portrayed as lackevaluating the Direcing input from those tor via anonymous directly handling anisurvey has not hapmals, with no behavpened for some years. iorist evaluations conThe most recent eval— Jim Bouderau ducted. Two recent uation to staff could euthanasia cases inonly be completed if they provided their names.” They added, volving dogs named Bill and Enzo are high“When staff raise concerns or ask questions, lighted, with accusations of negligence by staff they are ignored or told their concerns are members not being adequately addressed.

According to the employee, “In making evidence that this may not be the right euthanasia decisions, people that routinework for them.”

“The decision to authorize euthanasia is not made by one person. We have a team of approximately 15 dedicated, knowledgeable staff who meet weekly to discuss medical and behavioral issues.”

8 The Ithaca Times / February 21 – 27, 2024

ly handle dogs are not asked to provide input…no advocate for the animal is present at the table, and decisions are made without any behaviorist’s evaluations.” They continued saying, “The decision to euthanize both these dogs was made in minutes, and neither staff member was held responsible for putting both the animal and the public at risk.”

Concerning the allegations regarding euthanasia, Boudreau said, “Contrary to the belief of many people, ‘no-kill’ does not mean that animals are never euthanized.”

According to Bourderau, “The decision to authorize euthanasia is not made by one person. We have a team of approximately 15 dedicated, knowledgeable staff who meet weekly to discuss medical and behavioral issues. Members of this team include me, shelter operations staff, medical/ surgical staff, animal control officers, veterinarians, and behavioral staff.” He added, “Behavioral euthanasia decisions are taken extremely seriously by the team.”

Bourderau continued, saying, “The SPCA is doing an excellent job meeting its

website states, the shelter will not do any rehabilitation or behavior training.” They added, “Do you believe that this is the moral and ethical approach for a ‘no-kill’ shelter to take?”

Regarding the allegations, Bouderau said, “Our current behavior team has the skills and experience necessary to meet the SPCA’s needs. Our lead member of the behavioral staff has more than ten years of full-time experience and has credentials far exceeding the minimum that is required to While the SPCA seems to be meeting obtain behavioral certification.”

Boudreau continued, saying, “The team the standards of its “no-kill” mission, another critical issue revealed by anonymous also includes a veterinarian trained in precomplaints is the absence of a certified be- ventive medicine with a special interest in haviorist or dog trainer on staff for over behavior available for consultation.” He seven years. The employee claims that this added, “Unfortunately, some animals simlack of expertise compromises the shelter’s ply do not respond to behavioral training, ability to conduct proper behavioral assess- regardless of whether the behaviorist has received a certificaments, develop modtion from a profesification plans, and sional organization.” make informed lifeThe employee also or-death recommencriticized TCSPCA’s dations for animals priorities, accusing in their care. the shelter of neglectAccording to the ing its local commuemployee, the curnity. A months-long rent staff members in — Jim Bouderau waiting list for resithis role lack the necdents wishing to suressary qualifications.

“Emme, who is currently in the role, is not render their pets is evidence of the shelter’s qualified to make any behavior assessments failure to address immediate community or develop modification plans because she needs. The letter suggests that the direcis neither a behaviorist nor a certified train- tor’s pursuit of grant dollars has resulted in er. Her assistant is no more qualified than decisions prioritizing external initiatives, her to make behavior assessments,” said such as transporting dogs from the south, the employee. In addition, the employee over helping residents desperately seeking said that Bouderau has advocated against assistance.

According to the employee, “I fully suprehabilitation or behavior training, which raises ethical questions about the shelter’s port transporting animals from high-kill areas, but when it comes at the expense of commitment to its no-kill mission.

The employee said, “[Bouderau] has our community that is desperate for help, I stated in several staff meetings that despite find his decisions questionable and inconthe mission of the TCSPCA and what the sistent with our community mission.” no-kill mission. The goal in no-kill sheltering is to achieve a 90% or higher live release rate (LRR). The SPCA has consistently exceeded that goal.” According to Bourderau, the LRR statistics for the past five years are as follows: 93.73% in 2019 92.54% in 2020 91.67% in 2021 93.42% in 2022 93.45% in 2023

“Our current behavior team has the skills and experience necessary to meet the SPCA’s needs.”

Th e S P C A h a s a l s o b e e n ac c u s e d o f s h i p p i n g i n d o g s f r o m t h e s o u t h i n s t e a d o f ta k i n g i n d o g s f r o m t h e l o c a l c o m m u n i t y. ( P h o t o : K e n n e t h Wat e r h o u s e)

Tw o r e c e n t e u t h a n a s i a c a s e s i n v o lv i n g d o g s n a m e d Bill a nd Enzo ar e highlighted in the compl a ints, with ac c u s at i o n s o f n e g l i g e n c e b y s ta f f m e m b e r s n o t b e i n g a d e q uat e ly a d d r e s s e d . ( P h o t o : K e n n e t h Wat e r h o u s e)

They continued, “I believe that we as a who worked at the SPCA before Boudreau shelter are doing the bare minimum, and was hired said, “When I started volunteerif a cat or dog is not perfect, they are ei- ing, the shelter was open into the evening several days ther isolated in a each week to room which makprovide opportes their behavior unities for adopworse or deemters who worked ed ‘unadoptable’ full time to visit without any efwith dogs.” They fort towards becontinued, “The havior modificacurrent hours tion.” They added, — Anonymous Employee the shelter is “We should be open to adopters community leaders for animal welfare and safety, but we has been sharply reduced, and volunteers have lost our moral compass over the past have almost no involvement in introducing visitors to dogs that are interested in few years.”

Another former longtime volunteer adopting.”

According to the former volunteer, “The shelter has no annual plan, no clear goals for the next five years,” and has completely dropped the ball regarding fundraising efforts. “I haven’t seen a fund-raising campaign for anything for the shelter other than the 2 or 3 online campaigns centered around a specific day/event.”

In response to these alarming allegations, the anonymous employee has called on the TCSPCA Board of Directors to initiate a thorough and impartial investigation.

The outcome of such an investigation could be pivotal in shaping the future direction of TCSPCA, the board’s response Th e S P C A B o a r d o f D i r e c t o r s i s c o n d u c t i n g will have far-reaching implications for the a n i n v e s t i g at i o n i n t o t h e a l l e g at i o n s . organization’s role in fostering a humane Th e o u t c o m e r e m a i n s t o b e s e e n . and responsible environment for animals ( P h o t o : K e n n e t h Wat e r h o u s e) in need.

“We should be community leaders for animal welfare and safety, but we have lost our moral compass over the past few years.”

February 21 – 27, 2024 / The Ithaca Times

9

Sports

The Puck Stops Here Cornell Men, Women Clinch Ivy League Hockey Titles

By Ste ve L aw re nc e

W

hat a weekend it was for both Big Red hockey programs.

First, the women — ranked #6 — sealed the program’s 16th Ivy League title with a 2-1 victory over Yale to wrap up a best-case scenario road trip.The women also beat Brown by a 2-1 score (overtime), and the win against Yale on Saturday moved the team to 22-6-1 to wrap up the regular season. Cornell will get a firstround bye, and will rest up as Quinnipiac and Harvard take the ice in the first round of the ECAC Hockey Tournament.

The men had a similarly thrilling weekend, as Brown came into Lynah Rink on Friday, followed by Yale on Saturday.

It was an extension of the Don’t Be Kind to Animals weekend, as the Bears were dealt a 3-0 thumping, and the Bulldogs picked up an “L” when Cornell took the

2-1 win in a shootout in front of 4,267 Lynah Faithful.That win secured the Big Red’s 26th Ivy League title, and extended the program’s longest winning streak since the 2004-05 season.Cornell has now gone unbeaten in 14 games — tops in Division 1 — and goaltender Ian Shane has a lot to do with it.Shane — a junior — has gone 10-0-4 over the streak, sporting an impressive 1.32 Goals Against Average and a .931 Save Percentage.

Next up for the Big Red men is the annual road trip to the North Country, where they will take on Clarkson on Friday and St. Lawrence on Saturday.The puck drops at 7 p.m., and the games will be broadcast at WHCU Radio, and on ESPN +.

A compelling glimpse into an important part of the Lynah Faithful population is offered by Cornell Hockey Coach’s Club luncheons. The membership fees are con-

siderable, and many of the 110 members in attendance are well into their careers, many of the members have faithfulness to Cornell Hockey which dates back many years as well. Many (like Dave Wohlheuter, who has been the club Chairman since 1998, and who also serves as the emcee) remember watching Mike Schafer The Big Red men’s and women’s Hockey teams have both won Ivy League titles in 2024. (Photo: File) go from a brash and aggressive — some might even say reckless — young player as by any measure,“bleeds Cornell Red,” and the luncheons give members rare insight a freshman in 1983, to a more measured and refined team member, to a savvy team into what makes the Big Red tick. Coach Schafer pulls up highlights from recent leader, to an assistant coach, and finally, games, projects the action onto two big in 1995, to the The Jay R. Bloom ’77 Head screens, wields his laser pointer to exCoach of Men’s Hockey. plain strategies and outcomes, and invites Observers have watched Schafer questions from those gathered.He shares evolve as a coach as well, and the longstanding, up-close-and-personal relation- insights into helping student-athletes ships, fostered in large part by the Coach’s navigate the challenging balancing act that is Ivy League academics and DiviClub, are something rare in collegiate sion 1 athletics, and having navigated that sports in the age of coaches chasing path himself, he knows of what he speaks. ever-larger paydays and higher-profile For information on joining the Coach’s positions. To use a local cliché, Schafer, Club next year, contact Dave Wohlheuter at dpw5@cornell.edu In addition to the luncheons, many Coach’s Club members took Schafer up on his invitation to the Boatyard Grill after the Yale game, where Mike and his wife, Diane, hosted a gathering. Again, a rare opportunity for a loyal fan base to deepen an already unique relationship.

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR contin u ed from page 6

your Senators and Representatives, and leaders of your faith communities, including national leadership, to share your concerns. This is not a time for silence.

Ceasefire now.” — Sherry Altman, Ruth Atkin, Beth Cohen, Will Fudeman, Lois Levitan, Andy Mager, Michael Margolin, Carole Resnick, Mara SaponShevin and 45 other members of Congregation Tikkun v’Or in Ithaca, NY

Ithaca Rabbi Supports Immediate Ceasefire “Dear Ithaca Community, I am writing in support of a letter recently sent to this publication by a group of members from Congregation Tikkun V’Or (TVO) Contin u ed on Page 14

10 T h e I t h a c a T i m e s / F e b r u a r y 2 1 – 2 7 , 2 0 2 4

A New Gallery Features Art & Music B y Wa r r e n G r e e n w o o d Do you realize how lucky we are — to be here with all this wonderful…

ART?!

— Burne Hogarth

O

K, people. This is important.

A new gallery has come into existence in Ithaca.

(And I’ve come out of retirement to write about it.)

North Star Fine Art is located at 116 East State/MLK Street (The Commons).

It features the work of Brian Keeler. Brian Keeler is a crazily brilliant artist located here in Ithaca. I think one has to be cautious about using the g-word, but I also think Brian Keeler is quite possibly a genius.

(And he lives here in Ithaca! He is one of us!)

And it is meaningful for me to write about the opening of new gallery. I wrote about the closing of the Titus Gallery and the closing of the Sola Gallery for the Ithaca Times. So it is sort of upbeat to write about the beginning of a gallery.

North Star Fine Art is located at 116 East State/MLK Street on The Commons. (Photo: Kenneth Waterhouse)

Ithaca Artist Brian Keeler is opening a new gallery in downtown Ithaca. (Photo: Kenneth Waterhouse)

My colleague, Arthur Whitman, the Ithaca Times art critic, frequently bemoans the dearth of high quality galleries in Ithaca, so my feeling is, OK, Ithacans, we’ve got a superb new gallery happening here.

To describe the gallery: it is a large, carpeted, white space with track lights running overhead. It has a small kitchen to prepare food and alcohol for openings. And there is a little seating area in the back with folding chairs where Brian Keeler’s jazz band plays at openings on Ithaca’s monthly Gallery Night.

Brian plays guitar in the band. The combo is called Zingology. They play what they call gypsy swing. (Sort of Django Reinhardt jazz.)

There is also a studio area in the back where Brian actually paints. (I spent some time sitting with him, peering over his shoulder and watching him paint. A fun and deeply meaningful experience.) And there is the art.

The work in the current show is largely landscapes.

A remarkable amount of the pieces are scenes from here in the Greater Ithaca Area.

(Although, there also are paintings of Pennsylvania, Maine, Italy, Ireland and Scotland.)

The work could be characterized as Academic Realism. Although, there is a quality to it, that, to me, seems sort of hyper-aware, like seeing the world with an expanded consciousness. (I realize that sounds a bit fancy-pants, but there it is.)

I have written of Brian Keeler before.

I first wrote of him way back in the November 2, 2011 issue of the Ithaca Times. I used the phrase “hopped-up-hyper-reality” to

describe his work. (I was thinking of Vincent Van Gogh.)

And Brian told me about the Fauvists, who used what he called “trumped-up color, exaggerated color, sometimes called ‘arbitrary color’”. This was new to me.

And, later, in an article I wrote about Brian in the October 29, 2014 issue of the Ithaca Times, I quoted Brian from his 2014 book, Dramatic Color in the Landscape: Painting Land & Light in Oil & Pastel.

He wrote: “Expressing and describing the beauty of light has been the focus of Brian Keeler’s work in painting, which includes landscapes, the figure, portraits, still life and allegorical work… In a certain sense, the light is actually the subject for Brian, and the scene or depiction takes a secondary or supporting role.”

I wrote: “I mentioned this to Keeler, and he laughed and said, ‘The light is sort of the main subject, and the scene or the topography or the buildings are sort of supporting characters’.”

The late John Updike (who was himself a cartoonist) loved to write about art. He published three books of art commentary: Looking, Still Looking, and Always Looking.

On January 19, 2024, I visited Brian’s new gallery and looked at the paintings. I didn’t take notes. I just looked.

One thing that struck me forcibly is that the paintings have an almost photo-realistic look… from a distance. But if you look at them up close, they are remarkably (startlingly) impressionistic.

Arts&Entertainment

NORTH STAR ON THE COMMONS

Contin u ed on Page 15

February 21 – 27, 2024 / The Ithaca Times

11

Cinema

Reggae to Riches “Bob Marley: One Love” Biopic Traces Star’s Short, Brilliant Life

By D av id Bura k

I

n the initial phase of the brilliant, albeit at times problematic, “Bob Marley: One Love,” there’s an attempted assassination in which Bob, masterfully played by Kingsly Ben-Adir, gets a minor flesh wound. However, his wife, Rita,

“Bob Marley: One Love” Rated PG-13 Starring Kingsley Ben-Adir and Lashana Lynch Directed by Reinaldo Marcus Green Produced by Ziggy Marley, Rita Marley, Cedella Marley, Robert Teitel, Dede Gardner, Jeremy Kleiner, Tuff Gong Playing at Regal Ithaca Mall 40 Catherwood Rd., Ithaca

elegantly portrayed by Lashana Lynch, is also wounded and taken to a hospital.

Though Marley performs at the “Smile Jamaica” concert, he and Rita decide that they need to get out of Kingston to survive.

Rita and the kids head to the USA, Bob and several of his bandmates to the UK. Director Reinaldo Marcus Green’s ability to bring us into significantly contrasting scenes is evident as we proceed with Marley and his mates into a thunderous London club performance of The Clash.

We might sense that Marley’s apparent approval of the Punk Rock group can be an indicator of his (and The Wailers) cultural inclusiveness.

However, the eclectic screenwriters (Terence Winter, Frank E. Flowers, and Zach Baylin) don’t provide lots of time for reflection at this juncture, as our brothers from Jamaica encounter unfriendly

See our insert for special prices!

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

London bobbies, who proceed to incarcerate the “visiting musicians” in a fairly dingy jail, for smoking herb. Fortunately, their record producer is able to effectuate a quick release.

Despite, and to some degree, because of the various difficulties Bob Marley and his crew experienced, they were catalyzed with a renewed determination to create a synthesis of Reggae, European Punk rock and piritually uplifting lyrics and rhythms.

Kingsly Ben-Adir as Bob Marley in Bob Marley: One Love.” (Photo by Chiabella James/ This concoction led to Chiabella James — © 2023 Paramount Pictures) sold out tours at major venues in Paris, Sweden, and throughout the rest of Europe, as We’re leavin’ Babylon/ We’re goin’ to well as the mego-success of “Exodus” our Fatherland.

The music in this film provided us with which Time magazine considered “The a feeling of being at these concerts, as album of the Century.” It’s poignant lyrwell at several of the studio sessions. Like ics include: many musicians of his time, Marley’s life “Open your eyes, look within/ Are you satisfied with the life your livin?/ ended prematurely in tragedy. Bob Marley We know where we’re goin./We know where we’re from/ Contin u ed on Page 15

Music

Local Musicians Unite for Planned Parenthood Fundraiser at the Argos Warehouse

By Mat t D oug he r t y

I

n a harmonious effort to support reproductive health care, local Americana musicians in Ithaca, New York, are set to perform at The Argos Warehouse on February 25th for a fundraiser benefiting Planned Parenthood of Greater New York. Featuring a lineup including Freight, Janet Batch and the Four Bangers, Chickenwire Parachute, and more, the event aims to raise funds and awareness for an essential cause.

Planned Parenthood of Greater New York (PPGNY), a leading provider, educator, and advocate of sexual and reproductive health care in the state, will be the recipient of the proceeds. With 23 health centers spanning 65% of New York State, PPGNY plays a crucial role in offering

a wide range of sexual and reproductive health services. The organization is known for providing medically accurate, evidence-based information empowering individuals to make informed decisions about their health and future.

As a staunch advocate for reproductive freedom, PPGNY supports legislative efforts and policies that ensure all New Yorkers have access to the full spectrum of reproductive health services and education. The upcoming fundraiser is not just a musical event but also a platform to further these causes, fostering community support for Planned Parenthood’s vital work.

The musical showcase will commence at 4 p.m. and feature performances on two stages. The lineup includes an array of talented acts, including Drew Kiddoo

REQUEST FOR BIDS

The William George Agency for Children’s Services in Freeville, NY is soliciting bids for a campus entry project to include gates and landscaping.

Organizations interested in bidding are asked to contact Tom Browne at wgabid@gjrmail.com or 607-844-6204. Bids will be accepted on or before February 23. Certified minority- or woman-owned business enterprises encouraged to apply.

and the Blackouts, The Dart Brothers, Mortal Combine, Reverend Ezra, Chickenwire Parachute, Good Dog, Janet Batch and the Four Bangers, and Freight. Attendees aged 21 and older can expect a diverse range of Americana tunes to resonate through The Argos Warehouse.

The Argos Warehouse, the chosen venue for this charitable event, is the sister property of the well-known Argos Inn. Renowned for its The Argos Warehouse in downtown Ithaca is hosting a musical fundraiser on Feb. 25th to support Planned distinctive classic cocktails, Parenthood of Greater New York. (Photo: Provided) local draft beers, extended hours, and larger venue for private events, The Warehouse offers an Contin u ed on Page 15

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February 21 – 27, 2024 / The Ithaca Times

13

MELISSA HOLLAND contin u ed from page 7

from Ithaca College in 1965. Later on, he joined the Ithaca Board of Education and the Ithaca College Alumni Council. Dad worked as the Assistant Auditor at Tompkins County Trust Company (1965-1973), and owned an import-export store called “The Black Market” on the West End of Ithaca from 1967-1970. My Dad was also the Vice President of the Ithaca Jaycees (1969-1970). From 1967-1970 he was on various Boards of Directors in Ithaca including Northside House, the American Red Cross, Chamber of Commerce, Southside Community Center, Tompkins County Health Association, County Alcoholism Council, Ithaca Youth Bureau (Chairman), and a few other organizations. Dad was the first black Common Council member from 1968-1972. And LETTERS TO THE EDITOR contin u ed from page 10

in Ithaca NY, where I serve as Rabbi.

The authors of the letter are calling for negotiation of an immediate multilateral ceasefire between Israel, Hamas and other actors in the current conflict, to include

while he served as the 2nd Ward Alderman, he advocated for and helped establish the Human Rights Commission.”

“My Dad also worked with young people in the community. He was an Ithaca High School JV football Line Coach. He also coached Small Fry football through the VFW and basketball teams through the Catholic Youth Organization. He taught self-improvement classes at Southside, based on the pamphlet he developed in 1974 called Black Ego, A Black Person's Guide To Making It, and started a tutoring program for kids interested in working in radio. He also worked with Cornell students who were pursuing their master’s degrees in business, by linking them with local businesses.”

“Not only did my Father employ people of color and Ithaca College students at his “The Black Market” store, but he also started programs to help individuals

interested in starting a business of their own. He provided business advice to them about what they needed to do to get loans and other ways to acquire business funding. Dad also helped some people with improving their business bookkeeping and budgeting skills.”

“Dad helped establish Affirmative Action programs for minorities to enter the construction industry, the Ithaca police, and the Ithaca Fire Department. He worked with Mayor Jack Kiely to reimburse purchase for books and supplies for city staff taking classes at local colleges.”

Melissa went on to say that many of her father’s activities and accomplishments were listed in the publication Outstanding Young Men of America, 1970 Edition.

When I asked Melissa what her father, working and offering so much time for community services, was like as her dad, she responded:

“With all those activities going on, my Dad was also the man who made up bedtime stories instead of reading traditional books. He made illustrations for us and threw in some songs for the “show” he put on for “his girls.” He continued that tradition even after my parents divorced.”

“My Dad parented us with humor and entertainment. We still have discussions about classic movies and TV shows to this day. My sisters and I have great appreciation for all types of music, thanks to our parents’ vast record collections, and their constant singing at any given time or place. Dad could not always be in the house with us, but we always knew how to reach him.”

“My Dad, Mom, and Stepparents worked hard to make sure we knew we were supported and loved. They were always a united front… They showed us they cared about each other about us.”

return of the hostages taken by Hamas on October 7, full access to humanitarian aid in Gaza, and a path forward for a just and sustainable peace in the region. I couldn't agree more that these actions are necessary for the ultimate safety and security of Israelis, Palestinians, Arabs, Muslims, and Jews around the world.

I know that along with Jews of varied political and religious perspectives, many of our Muslim and Arab sisters and brothers have found this chapter in the ongoing conflict in the Middle East particularly trying and traumatizing. Jewish tradition says to “seek peace and pursue it” (Psalms 34:14). I pray that is what we are all striving to do.

B'tzedek v’shalom (towards peace and justice)” — Rabbi Shifrah Tobacman

ties and spelling out rights Trumansburg voters have used in the past, including the right of registered voters to run as independent candidates on their own party line in village elections.

As local historian Lydia Sears described in A History of Trumansburg, 1797-1967 (privately published, 1968), for decades the Citizen’s Party ran candidates for village elected office, with caucus and election results reported in the Trumansburg Free Press. In the 1960s, the Pioneer Party formed to challenge some of those candidates.

In that tradition, Tompkins County Board of Elections confirmed that the Community Party’s nominating petition, with 77 village voter signatures, places Marcia Horn on the ballot for Village Trustee for the term ending 2028. Horn’s candidacy provides village voters with real choice; her qualifications (https:// electmarciahorn.com) deserve serious consideration.

An independent candidate, Horn refuses financial support for her campaign.

An experienced Village Trustee, she concerns herself with the limitations of public resources. A former business owner, Horn understands pressures facing Trumansburg businesses. A 60 year village resident and 6th generation Ulysses resident, she takes a long view on what endures and what needs protection. A grandmother, mother, daughter and childcare worker, she seeks the needs of all generations. Most importantly, as a lover of Trumansburg, Horn will work to pass it on to the next generation unimpaired.

I support Marcia Horn for re-election as Village Trustee.” — Vivien E. Rose

Trumansburg Village Trustee Election

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Last month, village Democrats selected 2 candidates for 2 open Village Trustee positions. Neither won more than 40 votes; both would run unopposed. Put another way, less than 40 village voters would choose 2 Trustees to represent village residents in the important decisions facing Trumansburg in the next 4 years.

Returning to Ulysses after trying to move back to my home state, so overdeveloped that I couldn’t afford to live there and neighbors don’t speak to neighbors, I chose Trumansburg so I could walk to most needs and meet people as I went. In my first month as a village resident, at a sparsely attended community meeting for the Village Comprehensive Plan, I asked village trustees to protect places where conversations and impromptu gatherings happen.

I also chose New York, a state where citizenship rights are protected by legal structures and laws my childhood home lacks. As one of 13 colonies that became the United States of America, New York has laws regulating the formation, officers, duties and operations of municipali-

NORTH STAR contin u ed from page 11

(Brian will even use line to define form as if he were a cartoonist. I thought about this as I am a cartoonist — it was my lifelong career.)

Another thing I thought about — and this is highly personal — is that, when I was a youngster… way back in 1976… I lived in Hollywood, California and worked at an airbrush studio painting those airbrushed T-shirts that were popular in the era.

And one of the guys at the studio had had a previous job painting those airbrushed billboards that towered over the Sunset Strip in those days. And he explained that, up close, the billboards were wildly impressionistic. But seen from a distance, a driver on the Sunset Strip saw them as realistic. And an artist working on them had to learn how to paint this technique.

And I thought of this as I viewed Brian’s paintings (as, again, up close they are remarkably impressionistic).

Another thing that bears mentioning is that Brian has a new 2024 book on sale at the gallery: Light on the Figure: Aspects of Painting People.

I tend to think of Brian as a landscape painter… but the new book focuses on paintings of people. And I tend to think of Brian as a rural landscape painter, but there are a remarkable number of urban paintings in the book… cityscapes and city dwellers.

It’s sort of startling. Some of the paintings seem like super-realism, like something the late Chuck Close would have painted, some have a quiet, contemplative feel like the work of Edward Hopper, and some have a charming, human, storytellLOCAL MUSICIANS UNITE contin u ed from page 13

ideal setting for an evening of music and community support. The space is described as warm, lush, industrial, eclectic, and beautiful, featuring custom-made 19-foot velvet couches, repurposed 19thcentury industrial tables, exotic rugs, a bar with hand-carved Moroccan details, hanging plants, and a diverse collection of art and decor from local and international artists.

All proceeds from the event, including the suggested $20 donation, will go directly to Planned Parenthood of Greater New York. For those looking to contribute more, a dedicated donation page is available at https://www.plannedparenthood. org/. This page enables donors to support the cause with amounts beyond the suggested donation, underlining the commu-

ing aspect like the work of the beloved American illustrator Norman Rockwell.

The portraits have a feel like a Renaissance master… or perhaps the Bourgeois Baroque painter Jan Vermeer.

And Brian does these allegorical paintings that I absolutely love… portraying nymphs and satyrs and sirens and graces and gods and goddesses… (and placing them in contemporary Northeast American settings).

There is also everything from social commentary to flying cars. Ergo, if you love art, I recommend getting the book.

And… as mentioned before, the gallery also features music.

Brian’s jazz band, Zingology, will be on hand playing at each Gallery Night opening.

(Gallery Night is a marvelous Ithaca event where dozens of downtown galleries throw simultaneous parties on the first Friday of every month, and one can wander from opening to opening.)

To bring this to a close…

I think the North Star Gallery will become an important cultural resource for the community.

The late Kurt Vonnegut wrote, “The function of the artist is to make people like life better than they have before.”

And the North Star is this wonderful gallery centrally located on the Ithaca Commons. And the art-loving people of Ithaca can drop by periodically, to view Brian Keeler’s latest work, and listen to his jazz band. And I suspect it will make them like life better than before.

Which is what art — at its best — is all about.

For more info: www.northstarfineartgallery.com & www.briankeeler.com. nity’s commitment to ensuring accessible reproductive health care for all.

This collaborative effort by local musicians, The Argos Warehouse, and Planned Parenthood of Greater New York exemplifies the power of community engagement and the arts in advocating for essential causes. By combining the cultural richness of Americana music with the mission of reproductive health care, the event not only entertains but also educates and inspires attendees to actively support the ongoing efforts of Planned Parenthood.

In a world where such causes are more critical than ever, the Ithaca Americana Musicians’ Planned Parenthood fundraiser stands as a shining example of how communities can come together through the universal language of music to make a positive impact on the well-being of individuals and the broader community.

REGULATING SHORT TERM RENTALS contin u ed from page 6

little businesses’ in Route 13 corridor re-zone” to understand how local legislators impress their own personal visions through zoning to our detriment.

Taxes also have a greater effect on affordability and unfortunately none of our Democratic representatives are remotely interested in reforms. According to the Economic Policy Institutes Family Budget Calculator, taxes in Ithaca are the third highest cost for families only behind childcare and more recently healthcare.

So when Sonali brings up “economic justice", where’s the justice in these oppresINITIATIVE TO TACKLE contin u ed from page 7

strengthening the local overdose prevention network, expanding harm reduction strategies, and improving collaboration and workforce investment.

These projects, focusing on peer support, community outreach, overdose prevention, and workforce development, include recipients such as OpportuniREGGAE TO RICHES contin u ed from page 12

departed for the Spirit World on May 11, 1981. He was 36.

Unfortunately, Bob Marley didn’t pay close attention to health care issues. When Rita Marley encouraged Bob to see a doctor about his infected toe, her husband indicated that there will be time for that when the tour ended. By that time, the doctor’s diagnosis was that the bleeding big toe had led to a rare form of cancer.

For those of us who admire iconic musicians, another performer who

sive taxes when our roads are crumbling and money funnels to special political interests? Or when through political ineptitude housing becomes unbuildable and thus unobtainable?

Ithaca is the second most expensive small city in the nation in one of the most expensive states in the nation. It’s politically expedient when you are in a state, town, and city entirely controlled by one political party to project your failings and blame individuals such as those who operate short term rentals for rising housing costs. When are we going to judge our politicians not based on their promises but results? And the result over decades, even before AirBnBs arrival, is that Ithaca has been and is unaffordable. ties, Alternatives, and Resources (OAR), REACH Medical, ReUse, Cayuga Addiction Recovery Services (CARS), and the Alcohol and Drug Council (ADC).

As Tompkins County takes a proactive stance against the opioid crisis, the community eagerly anticipates the implementation of this innovative program, which has the potential to bring about lasting and transformative change in the lives of those most vulnerable. seems to present significant parallels is Jimi Hendrix. While Bob Marley was a “Rasta Man,” Hendrix was a self-described “Voodoo Child.” He, too, chose to spend a formative period in London, as illustrated in the film, “All Is By My Side.”

He incorporated neo-classics in his offerings, surprising the Beatles with his band’s rendition of their “Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band.”

In Hendrix’s case, I met him at his last American concert. He was zoned out after an amazing performance at Randall’s Island, NY. However. A few weeks later, he died after a concert at the Isle of Wight.

February 21 – 27, 2024 / The Ithaca Times

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