May 29, 2024

I

that Kendal at Ithaca is my home. - Mary

ICSD Budget and Capital Project Voted Down; Workman, Krantweiss and Fox Elected to the Board

By Maddy Vogel

After nearly 7,000 ballots were cast by residents within the Ithaca City School District, three candidates were elected to the board: challenger Emily Workman, incumbent Adam Krantweiss and challenger Todd Fox. The budget was voted down by a margin of almost 3,000 votes while the capital project was voted down by a margin of just 905 votes.

Historically, school board elections and budget votes have had low turnout, with this year having 6,975 ballots cast, which is over double the amount of voters compared to last year’s 3,273. This year, ICSD saw a high level of engagement from the community, with several packed board meetings leading up to the election with, at times, heated comments from the public and the board.

Opposition to the budget swelled in the last few days leading up to the election, with yard signs urging voters to vote no on ICSD’s $168 million budget seen popping up all over Ithaca the weekend before the election.

In contrast, teachers and other supporters of the budget have attended public meetings and rallied for the budget to pass, while advocating that Cornell pay a bigger contribution to the district because they believe the funding model for public schools in the state is flawed.

Ultimately, the budget was voted down with 4,916 votes for “no” and 2,059 votes for yes.

Because the budget failed, the board can choose to propose an alternate budget

and hold another vote. If the second vote fails, the board will have to adopt a contingency budget, where they will only be allowed to levy as much money as they did in the 2023-24 budget, which was $107 million and did not require an override of the state-imposed tax cap.

The board plans to tackle the budget they plan to propose at the Tuesday, May 28 meeting at 6 p.m. in IHS’s York Hall. The public will vote on a newly proposed budget on June 18.

Of the seven election candidates, Emily Workman received 4,393 votes, the most out of any candidate. Adam Krantweiss was trailing behind with 3,953 votes while Todd Fox received 2,805. The candidates terms will begin on July 1, so they, with the exception of incumbent Krantweiss who is on the board’s finance committee, will not have a say in the development of the new budget. Each elected board member will serve a three-year term.

Emily Workman, a challenger in this year’s election, hopes to bring her experience in data-driven policy-making to the district to help it achieve its goals, which she has said they are currently struggling to achieve. She has also said that she hopes to see the district’s communication and engagement with the community improved by holding the administration accountable as a board member.

Workman provided a statement to the Ithaca Times reacting to the election and budget vote results.

X Tuesday Farmers Market at Dewitt Park

Ithaca Farmers Market Tuesday Downtown Market is returning to DeWitt Park this summer, with a new time! Now from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., it’s the perfect mid-day stop for lunch while you shop!

ICSD’s budget was voted down by a margin of almost 3,000 votes while the capital project was voted down by a margin of just 905 votes. The BOE is now working on crafting a new budget to put up for a second vote. (Photo: Maddy Vogel)

“I am humbled and grateful by the community’s trust in me,” Workman wrote. “I felt the tension in this election and know that our community has communicated its fears, frustrations, and personal priorities through their votes. I hope that the District also hears these messages and is responsive as it makes decisions about next steps.”

Workman added that her first priority as a board member will be to listen and learn to ensure she understands the people she will represent.

“I want this District to be a place that can boast about its commitment to equity and academic excellence, and one that the community is confident is doing so based on data, evidence, and fiscally responsible spending,” Workman wrote.

Adam Krantweiss was running for reelection after filling a one-year term last year, running to ensure a robust academic program for his children in the district, in combination with his concerns about hiring and retaining quality teachers. Krantweiss said he wanted to ensure the district

The Ithaca Farmers Market is thrilled to return to DeWitt Park (on the corner of N. Cayuga and Buffalo Streets) with their easily walkable Tuesday market! Running weekly from June 4 through October 29 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Each week, you can expect some familiar farmers market vendors along with some new ones providing a wide variety of items all coming from within 30 miles of Ithaca. Tuesday is a very relaxed market, so the vendors change each week! Customers can check this list on their website just before heading out to the market. It’ll be updated by 11:15 a.m. each Tuesday.

Tompkins County Public Library will be hosting story time at 11 a.m. in the park every Tuesday. Each week there will also be live music to enjoy while shopping or eating from 12–2 p.m.

This downtown market is easily accessible — you can walk, bike, take the TCat, or drive! You can take the TCat to the Seneca Commons stop and then take a quick stroll over. There’s street parking surrounding the park and it’s convenient to the Seneca Street Garage. DeWitt Park is on the corner of Cayuga and Buffalo Streets (GPS Address: 102 E Court St, Ithaca, NY 14850).

Want to learn more? Visit the Ithaca Farmers Market website or follow them on Facebook, or Instagram

WEB

F r EE lan CE rs : Barbara Adams, G. M Burns, Jane Dieckmann, Charley Githler, Ross Haarstad, Steve Lawrence, Marjorie Olds, Henry Stark, and Arthur Whitman

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(1972–1978) and The

By Mark Syvertson

QUESTION OF THE WEEK: WHAT’S YOUR DREAM JOB?

“I’d

Mary Durham Boutique to Close After 20 Years: Community Voices Concerns Over Future Services

By Matt Dougherty

The Mary Durham Boutique (MDB), a beloved institution at 110 West Court Street, will permanently close its doors on June 15th. For two decades, this boutique, operated by the Women’s Opportunity Center (WOC), has been a cornerstone in the community, providing essential support services to women in need and serving as a vital skills training site for customer service and retail employment.

The decision to close the boutique was driven by financial constraints, space limitations, and changes in organizational priorities and has elicited significant disappointment and concern from employees and the community.

The boutique’s closure marks the end of an era. Since its inception, the MDB has offered more than just clothing; it has provided a safe haven for women seeking empowerment and community. The boutique’s mission of promoting sustainable and vintage fashion has resonated with many, making its closure all the more poignant.

Jan Bridgeford-Smith, WOC’s Executive Director, explained that the decision was not made lightly. Rising maintenance costs, including escalating utility expenses, insurance premiums, and frequent repairs due to the building’s age, have made it increasingly difficult to keep the boutique operational. The boutique costs approximately $166,000 annually, including staffing, utilities, insurance, repairs, and other line-item expenses. The boutique’s revenue from sales has increased over the last three years but still only reached about $70,000, which has fallen short of covering operating costs.

The Women’s Opportunity Center’s overall budget, including its core personal and professional development programming, is approximately $650,000. This budget supports their main office at 315 N. Tioga Street, their additional location on 10 Court Street, and their offices in Liverpool. Additionally, the competitive landscape has changed significantly. When the boutique opened, it was one of the few local outlets dedicated to sustainable fashion. Now, it faces competition from other thrift stores like ReUse, Salvation Army, Plato’s Closet, Petrune, Thrifty Shopper, Gemm

Shop, and online platforms such as Depop and Poshmark.

“We don’t own the Mary Durham property. The Durham family maintains the ownership and has been generous in allowing us to use the property rent-free for the last 20 years. However, we pay for everything else, including utilities, insurance, and security systems, which have all increased in cost over the years,”

Bridgeford-Smith said. “The building itself is aging and requires significant maintenance. We’ve had to put on a new roof and address various plumbing and electrical issues, all of which add to the expense.”

Despite the practical considerations, the decision to close the boutique was made without input from the two women who work there, Susan Weiner and Ronnise Way. Both employees have been integral to the boutique’s operations and built strong community relationships. Their exclusion from the decision-making process has added to the sense of frustration and disappointment.

“We’ve built relationships and created a supportive environment here,” said Way. “This closure feels like a loss not just for us but for the entire community.”

Weiner echoed these sentiments, emphasizing the boutique’s unique role. “The boutique has been more than a store; it’s been a place of support and empowerment. It’s disheartening to see it close without our voices being heard.”

The boutique operates out of a house owned by the Durham family, who generously donated the space for the past two decades. The family has agreed to sell the property in collaboration with the WOC, further necessitating the closure. The sale of the property means that the boutique’s services will be paused over the summer as the organization transitions to a new model. The exact allocation of the funds from the sale is to be determined by the Durham family, but Bridgeford-Smith expressed confidence that a generous spirit would guide them, as they have been in the past.

Many of the boutique’s services will be temporarily halted during this transitional period. Both Weiner and Way will stay on through September to pack up and clean the building, but they have expressed concerns about the continuity and scope of services once they are relocated. The

WOC plans to resume activities in the fall at their N. Tioga Street location, but the specifics of how services will be provided remain unclear.

Several customers and community members share these concerns. Long-time customer Jean Tyson expressed her disappointment: “It’s just so shocking because this is more than just a clothing store; you can come here and get a sense of peace.” Tyson continued, “The boutique is a place where you feel safe, you can collaborate and make friends…and people donate nice things.” She added, “I can feel good about coming here and finding clothing that makes me feel good about myself.”

Bridgeford-Smith reassured the community that the heart of the boutique’s mission would continue. Services like The Dressing Room, pop-up shops, special events, and clothing care packages will be relocated to the WOC’s building on N. Tioga Street. These services, essential to many women in the community, are expected to resume in the fall.

“The heart of our mission endures,” said Bridgeford-Smith. “We look forward to the community’s continued support as we navigate this change and continue to provide essential services.”

Immediate changes include a pause on donations starting June first, with plans to resume accepting items in the fall. A 75% off clearance sale is underway, encouraging customers to redeem their loyalty points before the boutique closes.

The closure also impacts the various training programs and community collaborations that the boutique has supported. Weiner and Way highlighted the boutique’s role in providing job training and work experience to clients from other nonprofits, such as Challenge Workforce

“General Manager of the New York Yankees.”

Ed

“I’d love to be a writer for the CBS show ‘Elsbeth’.”

Barb

like to host karaoke nights.”

Laura

“I really want to be a costume or set designer for music videos.”

Wren

“I just had a kid so I think my dream job is to be a father; I just didn’t know it.”

Patrick

The Mary Durham Boutique, operated by the Women Opportunity Center, is closing on June 15. WOC says services will be paused over the summer as they transition to a new location, but customers are still concerned about the loss of a community institution. (Photo: Matt Dougherty)

The Talk at

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

Johnson Art Museum Should Spotlight Local Artists

“I always enjoy Brian Keeler's essays but especially appreciate his retrospective of the work of Bill Benson. In Keeler's last paragraph he wonders if the Johnson Art Museum might get around to mounting a Benson show. It took years before the Johnson gave Alison Mason Kingsberry [known locally as Mrs. Morris Bishop] a show and it took equally long for other very talented local people to be given a nod. A show of a deserving local artist would not be parochial. Such recognition of a recognized local artist would enrich us all and link together the art on the hill and that being created all around us.” — Carol Kammen

Crab Appreciation

“Few animals are as fascinating as the crab. These aquatic beings can see objects from an impressive 60 feet away and their eyes can take in a 360-degree

panoramic view. Crabs sometimes work together to gather food for their families, and they will even help their neighbors fight off intruders. Crabs also have a sophisticated nervous system that enables them to feel pain. Just imagine your legs being ripped off your body, or being boiled alive. It may be inconvenient to recognize that crabs are sentient, remarkable animals, but we now know they are, and we must look at them with fresh eyes. Every animal is someone. Rather than exploiting these underwater individuals for profit, food, or amusement, choose to respect and protect. Choose kindness.” —

Scott Miller,

Research Specialist, Fishing & Waterways, The PETA Foundation

Taxes Fund Militarism & Endless War

“I hear many fellow citizens deploring that our tax dollars are being used to spend billions of dollars on arms shipments to Israel that end up killing Palestinian civilians of all ages. I also hear many saying they feel powerless to do much about this horror and that they don’t believe that contacting our elected officials does any good. I hope we can continually remind each other that elected officials do pay attention to their constituents’ opinions, even if it is only to maintain their positions of power. Also it is almost embarrassingly easy to do nowadays. Just google the official, press the contact button, fill in the email

form, and instantly send off your message. It does not need statistics, footnotes, or quotes from renowned people. It does need your opinion about an issue. And you will find when you write again that week, that the moment you start to type in your information, there it is ready for you just to click on, so sending a substantial message can happen in less than a few minutes. You can take action. You still have power. Others’ lives depend on you.” — Ruth Yarrow

A Letter to Assembly Member Anna Kelles

“The few homeowners in Ithaca/Tompkins County who are required to pay ICSD taxes without appropriate fair share payments from large landowners like Cornell are truly in danger of being forced out of homes with the totality of taxes we pay. Many people testified to this before the ICSD meeting for public comment on their proposed budget this past Monday. There is a YouTube clip of that testimony on Monday May 7. THERE ARE ALSO LONG STRINGS OF DISCUSSION ABOUT THIS IN NEXTDOOR.

MANY others have strongly expressed our pain and opposition to the proposed budget and our intent to vote NO May 21. Multiple reasons for voting No in addition to sheer enormity of cost.

We hear that there is something before Albany related to this. Seems there are multiple approaches to address this including:

Actually enforce the state mandate for a local jurisdiction to keep annual budget increases within a 2-3% max, not just require a 60% vote approval for higher proposed budgets; therefore, denying any budgets that are in excess.

Do something about extreme annual jumps in property assessments, e.g. max annual assessment increases when there is no change in ownership (so those of us living here in single family homes are not

VOTED DOWN

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had a quality special education program and told the Ithaca Times that he hopes to continue his work improving the district's programs through his position on the curriculum committee.

Krantweiss also provided a statement to the Ithaca Times reacting to the election and budget vote results.

“I’m honored the community entrusted me to continue my work on the board of education,” Krantweiss wrote. “Our first order of business is to propose a budget the community will stand behind, and

forced out due to the totality of property and school taxes here); assessment increases only when the property changes hand; less frequent re-assessments, anything else you can devise to HELP! DO SOMETHING THAT OVERRIDES SO CALLED “DEALS” BETWEEN PLACES LIKE CORNELL AND LOCAL JURISDICTIONS ON PAYMENTS IN LIEU OF TAXES. FIGURE OUT A FAIR FORMULA FOR HOW MUCH THEY ARE REQUIRED TO PAY.

PLEASE ADVISE HOW/IF THESE ISSUES ARE BEING ADDRESSED BY NY. PLEASE ADD THESE ISSUES TO YOUR ADVOCACY FOR US THE TAXPAYERS!” — Linda J Graves, Ithaca single family homeowner

ICSD Replace Superintendent Brown

“Now that the people of Ithaca have through the ballot box expressed their displeasure with the bankrupt vision of the ICSD administration, it is time for an overhaul. Replacing the ineffective, overpaid and controversial superintendent would be a good start. Yes to supporting teachers and hard-working staff. No to fat-cat bureaucrats and pointless political posturing. Ithacans will invest in real education, not perks, phonies and potemkin bureaucrats.” — Peter King

RE: ICSD Budget

“Necessary but insufficient first step. There are huge amounts of money being wasted. The budget could be slashed without impacting quality of education. Doubt general public will ever know exactly what all this wasteful spending is exactly. Any cuts are unlikely to be of the waste. No way it costs anywhere near $30,000 per year for a kid to sit in a classroom and learn 3 Rs.” — Steven Baginski

without cutting the valued positions and programs that help students learn and thrive. I’m excited to have a voice in shaping the future of the school district with current and new board members!” Todd Fox ran for the board to bring his construction and development management background to help the district reduce spending on capital improvements and hopes to add diversity “in terms of skills and abilities” to the board. He believes that no current board member has the development project management skills that he has and believes that

Continued on Page 14

UPS DOWNS&

Ups

The Finger Lakes Land Trust (FLLT) has been awarded a generous grant of $100,000 through the New York State Conservation Partnership Program.

Downs

Cornell University is facing scrutiny over its Climate Action Plan (CAP). A report from the campus-community initiative, Cornell on Fire, reveals that the university is not meeting its CAP goals and accuses Cornell of misleading the public about the impact of natural gas on emissions.

HEARD SEEN&

Heard

The 15th annual Peter De Mott Peace Trot 5K Memorial Run, a significant fundraiser for the Ithaca Catholic Worker, will take place on Father’s Day, June 16, at Cass Park in Ithaca.

Seen

Maguire Subaru Ithaca, in partnership with Subaru of America, presented a significant donation of $12,892 to Hospicare and Palliative Care Services. This donation is the result of the funds raised during Subaru’s 16th annual Share The Love Event that was held late last year.

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

QUESTION OF THE WEEK

Are you concerned about the amount of debt held by the City of Ithaca?

61 4 % Yes, fiscal responsibility is important.

4.5% No, it doesnt’ impact me.

34.1 % I don’t care, just fix the potholes.

Chestnut Tenants Face Displacement Amid Rising Rents and Renovations

By Matt Dougherty

The residents of Cayuga Gardens Apartments, formerly known as Chestnut Hill Apartments, are grappling with an uncertain future after receiving non-renewal notices on February 17. The notices, issued by the new owner, Delaware-based company WW Ithaca LLC, mandate that all tenants vacate their homes by May 29. This development has sparked widespread distress among the tenants of the 60-unit affordable housing complex.

The complex, which provided crucial affordable housing for many low-income families, was sold to WW Ithaca LLC for $4.7 million in January 2024. The new owners have ambitious plans to renovate the property and increase rents by $600 per unit, threatening to displace long-time residents who cannot afford such steep hikes.

A long-time resident of Cayuga Gardens, who spoke to the Ithaca Times on the condition of anonymity shortly after receiving their eviction notice, recounted the shock of receiving the notice. “We received a letter from the new owner who introduced himself, and shortly after, we were all issued 90-day eviction notices,” she said. “I opened my door to take out the garbage and saw the notice. Every single apartment in the complex had one.”

The tenant emphasized the severe impact this will have on her family. “We have

nowhere to go. I’m going to lose my job and my livelihood,” they explained. Their rent of $1,245 is expected to increase to $2,000 under the new management, a figure she says is unsustainable for her family.

The new management’s requirement for residents to reapply for their apartments with a $50 application fee without a guarantee of acceptance adds another layer of uncertainty. “They want us to fill out an application to live in the apartment we already live in, and there’s no guarantee we’ll be accepted,” the tenant said.

Many residents, including the tenant referenced in this article, have since left the complex, but roughly a dozen households remain, many of whom are elderly or disabled and have nowhere else to go. These remaining tenants are facing deteriorating living conditions as renovations continue around them. Their quality of life has significantly declined, with common areas in disrepair, standing water, and even reports of human waste in one unit.

Angel DeVivo, a member of the Ithaca Tenants Union, has actively supported the tenants at Cayuga Gardens. “The people who are left are elderly or disabled. They can’t leave right for various reasons.” DeVivo added that management had harassed ITU members off the property. “We had a tenant association meeting crashed by management. So it’s been hard to get down there,” DeVivo said.

of them elderly and disabled, who have not been offered leases yet, despite being completely caught up on rent,” DeVivo pointed out.

The Ithaca Times contacted the property manager representing WW Ithaca LLC, Kyle C. Steele, for comment but has not received a response.

Should the City close more downtown streets, temporarily or seasonally, to traffic?

Visit ithaca.com to submit your response.

The renovations, which management claims are necessary, are being conducted with little regard for the remaining tenants. “They’re working around the clock, and it’s disruptive. I had to call and complain because they were still drilling at five o’clock in the morning,” the tenant said. DeVivo added, “There are nails sticking out, standing water, and broken glass. One unit even had standing human waste sewage in it.”

The management’s inconsistent approach to lease renewals and applications has added to the confusion and frustration. Some tenants have been offered leases without applying, while others have been told to pay the $50 application fee. Yet, some residents have received no communication at all.

“It seems random because some people have huge rent debts. If I’m going by numbers, and I’m a cold-hearted manager, I see that this guy is not going to pay me, I’d evict him. However, there are two tenants in that apartment complex right now, one

The situation at Cayuga Gardens Apartments reflects a broader trend of rising rents and housing instability in Ithaca. Efforts to pass local tenant protection laws, like Good Cause Eviction, are ongoing but will not come in time to protect the residents at Chestnut.

DeVivo emphasized the urgency of these legislative efforts. “We were hoping that Good Cause Eviction could pass by the end of this month. It would give tenants a little more legal recourse and negotiating power. It’s critical to protect other complexes from suffering the same fate,” they said.

Ithaca Mayor Robert Cantelmo has told the Ithaca Times to expect a legislative memo for Ithaca to opt-in to Good Cause Eviction to be introduced to the Common Council by mid-summer. However, it has been speculated that a memo could be introduced on June 20, and a final vote to opt-in could take place as soon as July 10.

As the May 29 deadline approaches, the fate of the remaining residents at Cayuga Gardens hangs in the balance. The tenants and their supporters continue to fight for fair treatment and the right to remain in their homes, highlighting the need for stronger tenant protections and community support systems in Ithaca.

The Cayuga Gardens Apartments, formerly known as the Chestnut Hill Apartments, have been purchased by an out-of-state management company that is renovating the complex, raising rents and nonrenewing tenants. (Photo: Matt Dougherty)

Renovations that are taking place on site have resulted in hazardous conditions that have disturpted the lives of current tenants. (Photo: Ithaca Tenants Union)

Anti-Affirmative Action Group Founded by Cornell Law Professor Alleges ICSD Event “Segregates” Students

By Maddy Vogel

Aconservative anti-affirmative action watchdog group, founded by Clinical Professor at Cornell Law School William Jacobson, has sent a letter of demands to the Ithaca City School District, calling on the district to stop holding school events and programming that are “segregated” by race, regarding the upcoming Students of Color Summit 2024, which is set to take place at Ithaca High School this Friday.

On Tuesday, May 28, the Ithaca Times received a press release from Brian Finnegan, the vice president of New York City-based PR agency ATHOS, announcing that the “watchdog group” the Equal Protections Project is alleging that the Ithaca City School District has engaged in racial discrimination by hosting a “Students of Color Summit 2024.” The press release said that the summit appears to “segregate” students based upon race.

The Equal Protections Project, an AntiAffirmative Action group, which is a project of the Legal Insurrection Foundation, was founded by Cornell Law School Clinical Professor William Jacobson in 2023. The project, which is a Rhode Island-based tax-exempt 501(c)(3), has filed several federal complaints to combat discrimination in racial-preference programs, typically in higher education institutions.

Jacobson appeared on Fox News’ Tucker Carlson Tonight back in 2023 when he announced the project, stating that “we’re seeing very troubling patterns in society” regarding discrimination on the basis of race or ethnicity. Most recently, the group has filed complaints against MIT for a “women of color” program that the group alleged was racially and sexually discriminatory against white and male students.

Jacobson, on behalf of his organization, sent a “letter of demands” to Superintendent of ICSD Luvelle Brown and ICSD Board President Sean Eversley Bradwell on Tuesday morning. In the six-page letter, the group demands that “publicly denounce and renounce past and planned

My Experience With Ithaca Tax Collectors

By Henry H. Hansteen

With the recent talk of our record high and endlessly increasing property taxes, this seems like an appropriate time to share my shocking experience with Ithaca’s tax collectors.

segregationist programs, and open up the upcoming SOCU Summit to all students and staff without regard to Race.”

Jacobson states in the letter that the summit violates the Equal Protection Clause of the Fourteenth Amendment, Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, and the legal precedents set by the rulings of several Supreme Court cases, including Students for Fair Admissions v. Harvard, Bostock v. Clayton County and United Automobile Workers v. Johnson Controls, Inc., cited by Jacobson.

It also alleges that the summit is “racially exclusionary” and “intended to exclude whites.” The letter states that the group will be filing a FOIL request for public records related to ICSD Student of Color United Summits.

The letter provides an image of a poster promoting the Student of Color United (SOCU) Summit 2024 event, which states that the event is for “Students of Color in grades 6-12 in Ithaca City School District.” The event is scheduled to take place on Friday, May 31 at Ithaca High School from 9 a.m. through noon.

Jacobson’s PR agency, ATHOS, provided the following quotes to the Ithaca Times.

“We call on ICSD leadership to publicly denounce and renounce school events and programming segregated by

Continued on Page 15

In January 2022, I paid off a mortgage on a Fall Creek rental property I purchased in 1992. The taxes had been paid through escrow, but after the mortgage was paid off, that became my responsibility.

Unfortunately, there was an oversight on my part, and for the first time in 30 years, the first city tax payment was made, but not the second. That shouldn’t have been a problem, because according to the City of Ithaca website, when only the first installment is paid, a reminder notice for the second installment, which is due in June, is sent out in May. That notice was not sent, and I was unaware of the missed payment.

In February of 2024, 20 months after I missed the 2022 second installment, I received a letter signed by chamberlain office employee Jessica Wright and city attorney Victor Kessler, stating that I missed a tax payment in 2022, and that I owed over $1000 in fees and interest, plus the missed payment of $2374. Shockingly, this letter also informed me that foreclosure on my property had begun! At first, I thought it was an error, because I believed that my taxes were paid in full as they had been for the past 30 years. But going through my records, I realized that I had missed the second installment from 2022. This was the only notice I received, and the past due amount was not reflected in either my

MARY DURHAM BOUTIQUE

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Solutions, Catholic Charities, and the Summer Youth Employment Program. These programs have helped countless individuals gain valuable skills and build resumes, contributing to long-term employment success.

With the boutique’s closure, these training opportunities will also be paused, and the future of these collaborations remains uncertain. Way expressed concern about the loss of these programs, saying, “These are opportunities that have made a real difference in people’s lives. It’s hard to see them go, even temporarily.”

2023 or 2024 tax bills. Chamberlain office employees chose to conceal the missed payment, fees, and potential foreclosure from me, and instead waited until over $1000 in fees and penalties had been assessed, and my property was in foreclosure before notifying me. When I asked why the chamberlains’ office waited almost 2 years to inform me of the missed payment, I was told they don’t have enough staff to send out notices. It required far more time to file the foreclosure forms, do a tax search, advertise my property, consult with the city attorney, and calculate all the fees, so that excuse makes no sense. I called the tax collectors in Cortland, Binghamton, and Elmira, and they all send out notices shortly after a payment is missed. They do not take advantage of an honest mistake by using it to covertly extort money, and try to steal the citizens’ property. That would be like choosing not to inform a tenant of a missed rent payment, starting the eviction process and demanding 2 years' worth of late fees and legal expenses before finally notifying the tenant almost 2 years later. Reasonable, ethical people don’t engage in that sort of behavior. Incredibly, this gets even worse. If I had been on an extended vacation with my mail on hold, or in some way incapacitated, and the executor of my estate was unaware of this extortion and theft scam, my property would have been sold because of a $2378 missed tax payment, and the hundreds of thousands of dollars in equity I had earned over 30 years of work would have been confiscated (stolen). There is no legitimate excuse for this fraudulent, unethical policy, and it must be changed.

The WOC’s decision to transition to a resource center for women rather than focusing solely on employment training is part of a broader strategic shift. This transition aims to address a wider range of needs, including support for victims of domestic violence and mentorship programs. While these initiatives are valuable, there is apprehension about whether they can fully replace the comprehensive support previously offered by the boutique. Weiner and Way, who have been deeply involved in the boutique’s operations, are uncertain about their future roles. Weiner has been informed that her position will be terminated, while Way has been offered

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A photo from last year’s annual Students of Color Summit. (Photo: ICSD’s Instagram (@ithacacityschools))

Celebrating Community, Creativity, and Comedy: The 2024 Ithaca Festival and Ithaca Laughs

By Matt Dougherty

As summer approaches at what seems like the speed of light, the city of Ithaca is gearing up for one of its most cherished traditions — the Ithaca Festival. This annual event, set to take place from May 30 to June 2, 2024, promises to be a vibrant celebration of art, music, comedy, and community spirit. With the theme “Let the Sunshine In!” and artwork by the talented Joshua Swartwood, the festival invites everyone to come together and bask in the joy of creativity and togetherness. Since its inception in 1977, the Ithaca Festival has been a cornerstone of the local community, fostering a spirit of inclusivity and celebration. This year marks another milestone in its history as it continues to uphold its mission of “Celebrating the Artist in Everyone.” The festival is a free event, making it accessible to all, and is supported by the sale of $5 buttons and various merchandise. These sales help offset the costs of festival programming, ensuring that the event remains a vibrant and sustainable part of Ithaca’s cultural landscape.

The Ithaca Festival adopts a theme that encapsulates its spirit and vision each year. The 2024 theme, “Let the Sunshine In!” is a call to embrace positivity,

creativity, and the natural beauty of the world around us. The featured artwork by Swartwood will be prominently displayed throughout the festival, setting a

tone that promises to be both inspiring and joyful.

The festivities start with the highly anticipated parade on Thursday, May 30th. This parade is Ithaca’s most significant single arts event, with over 2,000 participants showcasing their talents and creativity. From floats and marching bands to dancers and community groups, the parade is a testament to Ithaca’s diverse and vibrant spirit.

The parade aims to provide entertainment and enhance community awareness of various causes, activities, and quirks that define Ithaca. Groups that fulfill the entertainment or community awareness criteria are invited to participate. However, political endorsements and negative content are strictly prohibited.

Participants are encouraged to incorporate the “Let the Sunshine In!” theme into their presentations. No items can be tossed or thrown from the parade route to ensure the safety of all attendees. Only one motorized vehicle per group is allowed, and all vehicles must be legally registered. Horses must have clean-up crews, and dogs must be leashed.

THE CRAFT FAIR

One of the highlights of the Ithaca Festival is the Spring Craft Fair, running from May 31 to June 2. This event features nearly one hundred local and regional vendors showcasing their unique creations. From jewelry and pottery to metalwork and toys, the craft fair offers a treasure trove of handmade items that reflect the skill and creativity of the artisans.

The Craft Fair will be open on Friday, May 31, from 12 PM – 6 PM, Saturday, June 1, from 10 AM – 6 PM, and Sunday, June 2, from 10 AM – 5 PM.

In addition to crafts, the fair includes small-batch foods and beverages such as syrup, honey, wine, and more. It’s an excellent opportunity for festival-goers to find unique gifts and support local artisans.

MUSIC

Music and performance are at the heart of the Ithaca Festival. With over 70 performances scheduled across various stages, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

This is a map of street closings and the parade route. The parade route starts at Tompkins St., ends on Buffalo St., and travels down Cayuga St. The Parade starts at 6:00 pm and lineup will take place on Lewis and Jay St. (Photo: Provided)

The Craft Fair will be open on Friday, May 31, from 12 pm – 6 pm, Saturday, June 1, from 10 am – 6 pm, and Sunday, June 2, from 10 am – 5 pm. (Photo: File)

TICKETS AND INFORMATION:

Tickets for all shows are available now, and early booking is encouraged to secure spots at this can’t-miss event. For ticket prices, show times, and additional information, please visit bit.ly/IthacaLaughs24.

SUPPORTING THE FESTIVAL: VOLUNTEERS AND MERCH

The festival showcases multiple musical genres and performances, from local talent to touring artists.

BERNIE MILTON PAVILION:

• Thursday, May 30: Maddy Walsh and The Blind Spots will kick off the festival immediately after the parade.

• Friday, May 31: Performances include Neo Project, Scratched Vinyl, Metasequoia, Front and Main, and Sing Trece.

• Saturday, June 1: Acts such as Ithaca Talent Education, Bob Roberts Calamity, Small Kings, Kitestring, Fall Creek Brass Band, and Gunpoets will take the stage.

• Sunday, June 2: Alan Rose and The Restless Elements, The Ilium Works, Strange Heavy, and Ariel Arbisser will perform.

DEWITT PARK:

• Friday, May 31: Andrea Ward, Marc Berger, Arjun Singh, and Wannah Dance with Alicia Free & Friends.

• Saturday, June 1: Ithaca Concert Band, Opus Ithaca Chamber and Jazz Ensembles, Hula Hut, Danza Romani, Mark Rust, and One Heart Community Drumming.

• Sunday, June 2: Mr. Bobcat (children’s entertainment), Zajal The Sugarplum Fairy and Friends, Ithaca Dances of Universal Peace, and Ithaca Community Sing.

CAYUGA STREET CIRCLE:

• Saturday, June 1: Doolin O’Day, Hilby the German Juggling Boy, Ithaca Ballet, and Grassanova.

• Sunday, June 2: Mirage Belly Dancers of Ithaca, June with Chandani Belly Dance Troupe, 6 Mile Craic, and Annie Ol’ Thyme.

ITHACA LAUGHS 2024

Adding to the excitement of the Ithaca Festival, this year also sees the launch of the Ithaca Laughs 2024 Comedy Festival. Running concurrently from May 30 to June 1, the comedy festival promises to fill the heart of Ithaca with laughter and joy.

FESTIVAL HIGHLIGHTS:

• The Ithaca Sober Comedy Mini-Fest: Featuring three alcohol-free shows, ideal for those who prefer their comedy without libations.

• The Elevated Comedy MiniFest: Offering three shows with a 420-friendly environment, perfect for a relaxed and laid-back vibe.

Beyond these mini-fests, the Ithaca Laughs 2024 Festival boasts seven other spectacular comedy shows, including stand-up comedians, musical comedy acts, and a special “Roast of Ithaca.” This di-

verse lineup ensures there’s something for every comedic taste.

“We’re thrilled to be putting on the Ithaca Laughs 2024 Comedy Festival. It’s a fantastic opportunity for locals and visitors alike to experience the growing comedy scene here,” said local comedian and festival organizer Kenneth McLaurin. “Our festival within a festival creates opportunities for everyone to find something that resonates with them, even providing sober spaces for adults to have fun.”

The success of the Ithaca Festival relies heavily on the support of volunteers and the community. Volunteers are essential for various tasks, from setting up No Parking signs to assisting with traffic control during the parade. Community and small business groups that provide a minimum of two volunteers can have their registration fees waived or refunded.

Festival merchandise, including buttons and other items, are available at designated booths throughout the grounds. These sales play a crucial role in funding the festival and ensuring that it remains free and accessible to all.

The Ithaca Festival, combined with the new Ithaca Laughs Comedy Festival, promises to celebrate the unique spirit and creativity that defines Ithaca. It

brings together artists, performers, comedians, artisans, and the community to celebrate art, culture, and humor. Whether you’re a longtime resident or a visitor, the festival offers something for everyone—a chance to enjoy performances, discover handmade crafts, laugh together, and participate in the vibrant community spirit.

Mark your calendars for May 30 to June 2, 2024, and join the festivities. Let the sunshine in and be a part of this cherished Ithaca tradition. For more information, visit the festival’s official website or contact the organizers.

This year’s “Let The Sun Shine In” theme was created by local artist Joshua Swartwood. (Photo: Provided)

The parade is Ithaca’s most significant single arts event, with over 2,000 participants showcasing floats, marching bands, dancers and community groups. (Photo: File)

The Ithaca Festival will feature more than 70 musical performances over the span of four days at the Bernie Milton Pavilion on the Ithaca Commons. (Photo: File)

Arch Restaurant

A Cortland Institution Since 1933

By Henry Stark

As far as I can tell, the Green Arch restaurant in Cortland has been in business for over 80 years and yet I had never been there until recently, when my editor assigned it. It started as a grocery store and was remodeled to be a restaurant in 1933. From then, until now, it has had only two owners.

It’s located on Elm Street, which was an Italian neighborhood off the main drag and is still clearly an Italian restaurant. I should also include the word family…It’s a neighborhood, Italian, family restaurant.

Tid Bits:

Green Arch is open three days a week. Thursday, Friday, and Saturday from 5-10 p.m. There is plenty of parking on the street..

It’s very popular with the locals, including many small, and unfortunately, frequently loud, children who, if they are under 12-years-old, are afforded their own section of the menu. They have a choice of half dozen entrées that range in cost from $8.32 (Pasta with butter and Parmesan) to $10.40 (Chicken Fingers and Fries).

The rest of us have a choice which includes Baked Italian Specialties ($18.72 – $20.80) like Lasagna and Baked Stuffed Shells or a half dozen Pasta Entrées ($17.60 – $31.20).

From the Pasta section I ordered Pasta Primavera with seasonal vegetables ($24.96). I was disappointed with this dish. It came in a bowl filled with a copious amount of inexpensive bland angel hair spaghetti and very few of the more expensive vegetables. I did find a few broccoli florets and some small slices of red and yellow pepper, and a bit of summer squash mixed in, however I expected a lot more.

I chose the aglio-olio sauce instead of the “red” sauce or the spicy Fra Diavolo sauce. Aglio in Italian means garlic and I didn’t taste any, at all. The oil-based sauce could have used a lot more seasoning.

Add-ons are available for the pasta choices including mushrooms, $2.08, meatballs, $7.28, sausage, $8.32, or one meatball and one sausage $7.80. There are also a dozen a la carte items you can add to build the meal, and the cost.

There’s a selection of three basic steak cuts with varying prices based on market conditions.

One evening I chose the “special”: Pan seared Sea Scallops Carbonara ($35.36/34).

most of the basic varietals and list countries of origin, however there are none from New York and no vintages are provided. All the glasses at the Green Arch cost $9.36 and the bottles are $33.28.

Civic Ensemble’s ReEntry Theatre Program Presents an Original Musical, Exploring How the Criminal Justice System Impacts Families.

Fallen Branches Plant Roots is a story of family, chosen family, and what it means to show up for one another Set in Ithaca, NY, the play follows the stories of several community members affected by the criminal justice system, as well as those with an impacted family member, as they navigate their journeys towards connection & healing

Running May 31-June 9, 2024 at Kitchen Theatre Co. For tickets, visit civicensemble.org

I didn’t understand the double pricing so, in reply to my question, I learned one was if I paid with a credit card, the other for cash. The five scallops were beautifully cooked and tender. The rest of the dish included some bits of pork belly, peas, and diced cheese. It was pleasant but again, I would have preferred some evident seasoning.

Almost all the entrées come with a garden salad and some fresh bread which they obtain from a bakery, just down the street.

An Italian restaurant wouldn’t be Italian without veal, chicken and eggplant parmigiana all of which are available and under $27.

The wine list is adequate. They carry

Unfortunately, I had several problems when I ordered a bottle. I was happy to see, among the five whites, a Sauvignon Blanc from Marlborough, New Zealand. I like Sauvignon Blancs and the ones that come from New Zealand are my favorites. After I had taken a few sips, it didn’t taste like a New Zealand wine, so I lifted the bottle from the cooler on the table to look at the label. Prominent on the label was the word California. I told my server who summoned the manager. The best he would do was take the bottle back and let me start all over, which I didn’t have time to do. The next problem occurred when I asked the server to bag the remainder of the contents of the bottle so I could take it with me in my car. She said, “We don’t do that.” At my request, she summoned the manager who agreed.

To say the least, I was surprised that no one in an 80-year-old restaurant knew that I was legally allowed to take an unfinished bottle of wine home and that the restaurant must re-cork the bottle, seal it in a see-through bag, and attach the receipt to the bag.

Green Arch Restaurant in Cortland:

A neighborhood staple since 1933, serving Italian family favorites in a lively, if sometimes noisy, atmosphere.

Dryden Holds 40th Annual Dairy Day Celebration

By David Durrett

On Saturday, June 8, Dryden will host its 40th annual Dryden Dairy Day event, a decades-old celebration of dairy and agriculture in Dryden.

Dryden Dairy Day was first started in 1985, after Owego reached out to community groups in Dryden to ask if Dryden could promote an event for Owego’s residents to attend, in exchange for Dryden promoting Owego’s strawberry festival in July. The idea was pitched to the Dryden Grange, which accepted the proposal.

“From the beginning, Dryden Grange looked at this as an opportunity to bring the community of Dryden together,” Brenda Carpenter, chair of the committee in charge of Dryden Dairy Day, said.

Carpenter said the collaboration with Owego fell through in the planning stages, and the Dairy Day was only conceived as a one-time event, but at the end, many residents expressed interest in the event, so it continued and grew over the years.

The Dryden Dairy Day features vendors, a parade and other attractions, such as a hay bale toss. This year, the Dryden recreation department will promote a three-on-three basketball contest, which Carpenter said would be fun for youth and young adults, and new food items include macaroni and cheese and fried ice cream.

Dairy ambassadors will hand out cheese samples and doing fun games to promote dairy products. According to Carpenter, at-

tendees can get a carton of milk or a scoop of ice cream for $0.25 each, which she said was an unusually good deal.

“There’s no place, I bet, in New York state where you can get a scoop of ice cream for $0.25,” she said. “Those are real attractions and promotions. We want to get people seeing the benefit of dairy farming and dairy products.”

The parade kicks off Dairy Day at 9:30 a.m. and activities are planned from 10:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. Carpenter said there are restrictions on how large the parade can be, since they can only close Route 13, a state route, for a limited time for the parade.

Carpenter said the kindergarten coloring contest, in which kindergarteners work together as classes to color paper cows, which are mounted on plywood and displayed at Dryden Dairy Day, with attendees voting on their favorites, has long been part of the event. She said the organizers cut 10 new cows every year, and they always sell out, with people putting up cows in front of their businesses.

“This is one of the ways that we continue to promote Dairy Day as a community event,” Carpenter said. “We do a number of things to engage the community in what we are doing.

Each year’s Dairy Day has a theme, and the theme of this year’s Dryden Dairy day is “LegenDAIRY Superheroes.” She said when considering themes, she and other organizers reach out to the public for suggestions via Facebook, with them looking for ideas that promote agriculture and are family-friendly. She said the committee in charge of the event votes on the theme, but the public comes up with the idea.

The event funds a $500 scholarship to graduating seniors who are planning on going on to further their education in agriculture

“We are very happy to help graduating seniors continue their career path and continue to engage in agriculture,” Carpenter said.

Carpenter said there is no way to count the exact number of people who attend Dryden Dairy Day, but the event’s attendance has grown from hundreds in the early years to thousands in more recent years. She said people who attended last year’s Dairy Day believe it was the best attended one yet, and said she expects this year’ event to have comparable attendance.

Dryden Dairy Day was canceled in 2020 and 2021, due to the COVID-19 pandemic making large gatherings unsafe.

Carpenter said people who attend Dairy Day value the event’s family-friendly atmosphere and affordability.

“You can come to Dairy Day and you know you don’t have to spend a ton of money to have a ton of fun,” she said.

Carpenter thanked the other members on the committee who make Dryden Dairy day possible, saying that while she coordinates it, every member on the committee works hard to make it possible.

“It’s an opportunity to showcase all of the special parts of the Dryden community, she said. “I’m a resident of Dryden and Dairy Day is an event that makes Dryden a very special place to live and be a part of the community.”

For more information on Dryden Dairy Day, visit https://drydendairyday.org/

& Entertainment

Families enjoy a variety of activities at Dryden Dairy Day, including a hay bale toss, three-on-three basketball contest, and delicious dairy treats like $0.25 scoops of ice cream. (Photo: Provided)

Dryden Dairy Day parade kicks off at 9:30 a.m., showcasing the community’s spirit and enthusiasm for agriculture and dairy products. (Photo: Provided)

Cortland Repertory Theatre 53rd Annual Summer Season

By Matt Dougherty

The Cortland Repertory Theatre (CRT) has commenced its 53rd annual summer season with the opening of its Box Office on Monday, May 20th.

Located at CRT Downtown, 24 Port Watson Street in downtown Cortland, the Box Office will facilitate ticket sales for an exciting lineup of productions that promise to captivate audiences throughout the summer months.

The Box Office will operate Monday through Friday from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM and on Saturdays from noon to 6:00 PM. During performance days at the Little York Pavilion, 6799 Little York Lake Road in Preble, a secondary Box Office will be open 90 minutes before show time to accommodate last-minute ticket purchases and inquiries.

For those who prefer the convenience of purchasing tickets remotely, CRT offers several options. Tickets can be bought by credit or debit card over the phone by calling 800-427-6160 during business hours or online at www.cortlandrep.org any time of the day.

While a 4% technology fee applies to all card transactions, this fee is waived for payments made by cash, check, or gift card. Additionally, a nominal fee is charged for online sales.

CRT’s 2024 summer season promises a diverse array of performances catering to various tastes and age groups. The season kicks off with the timeless classic “My Fair Lady” from June 5th to June 14th. This celebrated musical by Alan Jay Lerner and Frederick Loewe follows the transformation of Eliza Doolittle under the tutelage

The Cortland Repertory Theatre’s summer season kick’s off on June 5 with a performance of “My Fair Lady” and ends on August 17 with a performance of “Beauty and the Beast.” (Photo: Provided)

of Professor Henry Higgins, delivering a story of personal growth and societal expectations set to an unforgettable score.

Following this, from June 19th to June 28th, CRT will present “The Last Romance,” a heartwarming comedy by Joe DiPietro. This play explores the intricacies of relationships in the later stages of life and the enduring bonds of family, promising an evening filled with laughter and poignant moments.

Audiences can escape to a tropical paradise with “Escape to Margaritaville” from July 3rd to July 12th.

Featuring the beloved songs of Jimmy Buffett, this musical, penned by Greg

Garcia and Mike O’Malley, tells a story of love and adventure set against the backdrop of a picturesque island, complete with plenty of humor and a touch of volcanic excitement.

From July 17th to July 26th, the theatre will stage a new adaptation of the classic thriller “Wait Until Dark” by Frederick Knott, adapted by Jeffrey Hatcher. This intense drama centers on a blind woman who must outwit three con artists in her home, promising edge-of-the-seat suspense and psychological intrigue.

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Music Geneva Music Festival Kicks Off

By Staff Report

The Geneva Music Festival (GMF) opened its 2024 season with an unforgettable performance by the cross-genre trio Biribá Union at Ravines Wine Cellars. This electrifying event marked the beginning of what promises to be an exciting month of music, community outreach, and artistic exploration. Biribá Union set the tone with a brilliant blend of musical styles, combining traditional reprises with original compositions and an engaging freestyle hip-hop session that incorporated elements suggested by the audience. The innovative performance left attendees smiling, clapping, and eagerly anticipating the festival’s upcoming events.

Founded in 2011 by violinist Geoffrey Herd, the Geneva Music Festival started as a modest weekend of chamber music in Herd’s hometown of Geneva, New York. Over the past fourteen years, it has grown exponentially, evolving into a nearly month-long celebration that draws thousands of music lovers from across the Finger Lakes region. The festival has remained true to its mission of inspiring audiences with world-class chamber music while engaging diverse communities through its outreach programs.

The coming weekend promises another highlight with the “Love and Loathing” concerts at the Gearan Center for the Performing Arts, scheduled for Saturday and Sunday evenings at 7:30 PM. These concerts will explore the emotional spectrum suggested by this year’s festival theme, “Light and Dark.” Audiences can look forward to performances by several of GMF’s most beloved returning artists: violinists Jinjoo Cho and Geoffrey Herd, violist Eric Wong, cellist Max Geissler, and pianist Henry Kramer.

“Love and Loathing” will delve into the profound and tumultuous emotions that music can evoke, from deep love and tenderness to loathing and animosity. The program includes works by the Romantic composer Robert Schumann, whose pieces are wellknown for their emotional depth. Additionally, modern Indian-American composer Reena Esmail’s “Saans” offers a touching in-

terpretation of love and friendship, reflecting her unique cross-cultural perspective. The program will also feature Josef Suk’s “Love Song” and César Franck’s passionate Piano Quintet, promising an evening of intense and moving performances.

In addition to the main concerts, GMF has a variety of community outreach events planned. These include visits to local schools, where artists will engage students with performances and discussions about music. Such outreach efforts are a cornerstone of GMF’s mission, aiming to inspire the next generation of musicians and music lovers.

One of the most anticipated events of the week is the inaugural “Musical Mixology Night” at the Linden Social Club, scheduled for Thursday. This soldout event will pair musical pieces with specially curated small bites and bespoke drinks, creating a multisensory experience that merges the culinary and musical arts. The idea behind Musical Mixology is to enhance the audience’s appreciation of music by engaging multiple senses simultaneously, offering a novel way to experience live performances.

The Geneva Music Festival’s growth over the past fourteen years is a testament to the vision and dedication of its founder, Geoffrey Herd, and the many artists and volunteers who have contributed to its success. What began as a small-scale event has transformed into a significant cultural institution within the Finger Lakes region, known for its high-caliber performances and innovative programming.

Each year, the festival strives to bring together a diverse group of musicians who not only perform but also participate in educational and outreach activities. This year’s roster includes both returning favorites and new faces, all of whom share a commitment to the festival’s mission. The blend of experienced performers and fresh talent helps to keep the festival dynamic and engaging, ensuring that there is always something new and exciting for audiences to discover.

One of the hallmarks of the Geneva Music Festival is its commitment to accessibility and inclusivity. All concerts

The coming weekend promises another highlight with the “Love and Loathing” concerts at the Gearan Center for the Performing Arts, scheduled for Saturday and Sunday evenings at 7:30 PM. (Photo: Provided)

are wheelchair accessible, ensuring that everyone has the opportunity to enjoy the performances. The festival also makes a concerted effort to engage with diverse audiences through its outreach programs, which include free performances and educational activities designed to reach underserved communities.

As the Geneva Music Festival continues through its 2024 season, audiences can look forward to a rich lineup of concerts and events that celebrate the power of music to connect people and evoke a wide

range of emotions. From the passionate intensity of “Love and Loathing” to the innovative fusion of music and culinary arts at the Musical Mixology Night, the festival offers something for everyone.

For those interested in attending, tickets and further information are available on the festival’s website, genevamusicfestival.com.

As the first week of the festival comes to a close, the excitement and anticipation for the upcoming events are palpable, promising a memorable and transformative season for all involved.

Bad Breaks

Local Author’s Novel “Curveball” Explores Life’s Breaks During a Baseball Career

By Steve Lawrence

Eavesdroppers might have had fun guessing. Maybe the two guys sitting at the table of a cafe were just two travelers, with more miles behind them than ahead of them on the road of life, having an “organ recital,” so to speak, talking about their prostates and hearts and kidneys.

Maybe they were writers, because they talked about the difference between writing fiction and non-fiction, how one had to fact check and get the quotes right in one of those disciplines, and could ignore such trivialities in the other.

One thing was certain — they were baseball fans. Both of them lit up when sharing stories about the Great Game, their knowledge spanning decades, their passion palpable. No doubt, they would be a formidable pair in a baseball trivia contest.

The eavesdroppers would have been three-for-three, and my one-hour conversation with Mecklenburg resident Eric Goodman could have easily stretched

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objectivity and the ability to see all sides of an issue are qualities that are crucial for board members to have.

Fox provided a statement to the Ithaca Times regarding the preliminary results released by the district.

into extra innings. We were discussing “Curveball,” his seventh novel (published this week by Post Hill Press), and early in our conversation, I asked him a question related to one of the book’s main story lines, addressing a topic familiar to men of our vintage. ‘Eric, I am guessing that when your first novel was published in 1980, you were not writing about prostate cancer. Am I right?”

Goodman, pointing out that “Curveball” is a sequel to “In Days of Awe,” published in 1991) laughed and replied, “Yes, you are.” He added, “I have joked that I have enough wear on my literary tires that I am now writing about people across time. It makes them seem real, and at this point in my life I relate less to Joe (a retired Major League pitcher, and more to Jack (Joe’s octogenarian father).”

The book’s back cover features a quote in which a T.C. Boyle calls “Curveball” “a first-rate intergenerational drama, as well as a delightful read.” Indeed, the book navigates many of life’s twists and turns, from being one of the few Jewish players in

“The community has spoken! There’s a deep desire for change and accountability, not just in terms of the budget and fiscal responsibility,” Fox wrote. “But also for the academic wellbeing and success of our students. For the wellbeing and success of our teachers and staff. For the wellbeing and success of our community as a whole. The turnout of voters was in record

pro baseball, to the pressure a young pitcher feels in trying to follow his father from the Minors to “The Show,” to the complicated relationship between the former Major Leaguer and his father, to making a decision whether to be a trailblazer in being the first openly gay player in the Majors, to the aforementioned prostate cancer challenge.

The prostate cancer component brought Eric and I to the discussion about art imitating life, if you will, and I wondered (we had just met... I was not about to ask) how much of his own life experiences influenced his character development and plot lines. He graciously answered that question to the degree he felt appropriate, and regarding the “coming out” issue, he said, “Baseball is its own private world, with its own ideas of what masculinity means. For these big, strong men, the expectation is that you’re heterosexual.” (I got a good laugh when 82 year-old Jack Singer was referred to in the book as “the horniest hetero in Florida.”)

Addressing the family dynamics, Goodman offered, “Unresolved father/son dynamics are at the center of ‘In Days of Awe,’ and it is clear that now — more than 25 years later — Jack and Joe still have a lot to work out.”

As one might guess, in this book, life throws several curveballs at its characters as it weaves in many “real-life” locations and scenarios. Jack never thought he’d be contemplating the jarring possibility that he might outlive his son, or that he would

numbers compared to previous years, that speaks volumes. There’s a lot of important work ahead!”

Notably, long-time incumbent and board member since 2009 Eldred Harris received the fewest votes among all the candidates, with 1,448 votes cast in favor of his reelection. Another long-time incumbent, current board vice president

Mecklenberg resident Eric Goodman has published his seventh novel. (Photo: Provided)

be growing so emotionally connected to a woman he initially saw as a casual girlfriend. Joe never imagined that he son’s rise to fame would thrust him back into the spotlight he had avoided for decades — for some very good reasons. Jess’s head spun when he was offered an opportunity to hold a press conference and discuss his sexuality in front of the entire world. Curveballs indeed.

Eric Goodman will be doing a reading to benefit the Trumansburg Conservatory of Fine Arts, 5 McLallen St, Trumansburg, on June 2. He will also be appearing on Saturday, June 29, 4 p.m. at the History Center of Tompkins County.

“Curveball” can be purchased at the signing events, at Odyssey Bookstore in Ithaca, or at https://www.simonandschuster.com/books/Curveball/Eric-Goodman/9798888454596. I highly recommend scooping it up.

and board member since 2015 Moira Lang was also voted out, receiving a total of 2,386 votes, just 419 votes less than Todd Fox.

Beyond the budget, there were two other propositions on the ballot that were both voted down.

Rounding out the mainstage season from July 31st to August 17th is Disney’s “Beauty and the Beast.” With music by Alan Menken, lyrics by Howard Ashman and Tim Rice, and a book by Linda Woolverton, this beloved tale of inner beauty and transformation will enchant audiences of all ages. Based on the acclaimed animated film, this production brings the magical world of Belle and the Beast to vibrant life on stage.

In addition to these mainstage productions, CRT will host the Bright Star Touring Theatre’s production of “Storybook Tales” on July 19th and 20th. This family-friendly performance is a delightful mash-up of the classic stories of Pinocchio and Robin Hood, offering a captivating experience for young audiences. Tickets for this show are priced at $8.00 per person, with free admission for children ten years old and under.

To cater to a broad audience, CRT offers several ticket options and discounts. Single adult tickets are priced at $42.00 for center seats and $40.00 for side seats. There is a $2.00 discount available for seniors (62 and up), active military and veterans (with proof of service), first responders, and groups of 10 or more. Youth tickets for those 22 and under are available at $25.00.

For those looking to attend multiple shows, CRT offers five- or six-ticket Flex Passes, which come with free ticket exchange privileges. Additionally, CRT has introduced several special offers to make theatre more accessible. The Youth Flex

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The proposition that would allow the board to use funds from the District’s 2022 capital reserve fund to purchase up to four electric buses, four diesel buses, and six passenger vans, with a maximum amount of $3.2 million, was voted down with 3,830 “no” votes in opposition and 2,980 “yes” votes in support.

The other proposition voted down was for the capital project, asking voters to authorize the district to establish a $125 million capital improvement bond for a capital project to improve the district’s bus garage and add more chargers for electric buses. This proposition failed to pass with 3,919 votes for “no” and 3,014 votes for “yes.” At this time, it is unclear whether the board intends to hold a re-vote on these two failed propositions.

Pass allows individuals 22 years of age and under to purchase two tickets for $40.00. For each opening night, a limited number of side seats are available for $10.00 each on a first-come, first-served basis. These must be purchased in person from 4:30 PM to 6:00 PM on the performance day at the CRT Downtown Box Office.

Teachers, faculty, and staff of schools and colleges can take advantage of the Educators Discount Night, where they can purchase a pair of tickets for $60.00 for the first Thursday evening performance of each show, with proof of current employment required. Individuals aged 18 to 40 can enjoy the “40 Below” Date Night offer, which allows them to purchase tickets for $50.00 for the first Saturday of any summer production, with proof of age required.

Additionally, CRT will host Friday Night Talk Backs, where audiences can engage with the actors, designers, and technicians in a lively discussion about the production following the first Friday’s performance.

With such a varied and enticing lineup, CRT’s 2024 summer season promises to be an unforgettable experience. For more information, visit www.cortlandrep.org for detailed show descriptions, performance times, and ticketing options.

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race,” Jacobson said. “This is important because for years contradictory messages have been sent, with official policy barring discrimination while practice embraced discrimination.”

Jacobson also calls for the district to “appoint an outside independent monitor to ensure compliance with non-discrim-

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a new role that she feels is not a suitable fit. “It’s like they’ve thrown together a position that doesn’t really address what we’ve been doing here,” Way said. “It’s frustrating and disheartening.”

As the Mary Durham Boutique prepares to close its doors, the community reflects on its impact and looks ahead with hope and uncertainty. The boutique has been a lifeline for many, offering clothing, dignity, confidence, and a sense of belonging. The WOC’s commitment to continuing its mission is reassuring, but the loss of the boutique’s physical space and the

ination laws and policies, including as to race-segregated programming.”

Cornell Media Relations declined the Ithaca Times’ request to comment regarding Jacobson's association with the university and what stance the university has on his organization's allegations. ICSD Superintendent Luvelle Brown and Board President Sean Eversley Bradwell did not immediately respond to a request for comment on the allegations.

temporary pause in services are significant changes that will be felt deeply by those who have relied on it.

In this time of transition, the WOC hopes to maintain the legacy of Mary Durham and continue supporting women in the community. As Bridgeford-Smith stated, “While the physical location may change, our dedication to empowerment and resilience remains steadfast. We are committed to finding new ways to serve and support our community.”

The closure of the Mary Durham Boutique marks the end of a significant chapter, but the hope is that the spirit of its mission will endure, adapting to meet the evolving needs of the community it has long served.