PAGES 8-9
Under a Monumental Agreement, Cornell will Contribute $425,000 Annually to Town of Ithaca
By Dorothy France-Miller and Maddy Vogel
After a Town Hall resolution was unanimously passed approving the first-ever agreement of voluntary payment between the Town of Ithaca and Cornell on June 10, the university has formally agreed to the contribution. The agreement was signed on June 13, acknowledging that Cornell will provide $425,000 annually to the Town of Ithaca for the next 10 years beginning July 1.
The Town of Ithaca refers to the broader area of Ithaca, including the universities, city, suburbs and rural outskirts surrounding the City. About 40% of Cornell’s campus resides within the Town of Ithaca, according to a press release obtained by the Ithaca Times.
According to the resolution, the voluntary contribution, which operates in lieu of taxes, will be used toward general services and improvements to town-owned infrastructure. This will be jointly agreed upon from a list of projects that will be developed by the town and the university.
The $425,000 contribution will be adjusted annually for inflation.
“We were aiming slightly higher, [but] we ended up with something that I feel is a good start,” said Rich DePaolo, Town Board member. “I feel that we maintained discretion for how the money will be spent, and it is certainly better than the agreement we had last year which didn’t exist.”
In the statement announcing the new agreement, Town of Ithaca Supervisor Rod Howe said the Town Board agreed to approach Cornell to inquire about the potential of coming to a PILOT deal last fall. According to Howe, “discussions were initiated to augment support for services and initiatives that…are of mutual benefit to town residents and Cornell.”
Potential general services and infrastructure improvements that the contribution could help fund include work on roads and bridges; stormwater systems; natural areas, parks and open spaces including trails; sidewalks and parking garages and lots; and electric vehicle charging equipment.
“This first-ever voluntary contribution agreement is a major accomplishment for the town and Cornell and further strengthens our important relationship,”
Joel M. Malina, Cornell’s vice president for university relations said in a press release.
“The fact that it’s a 10-year agreement will ensure a consistency of dedicated dollars over that long-term time frame.”
Under Federal and State law, colleges and universities receive tax-exempt status because of their educational purposes.
Many have said that Cornell’s tax-exempt status places a disproportionate burden on Ithaca’s homeowners and taxpayers, although Cornell owns a large amount of property in Ithaca.
X Tompkins County Quilters Guild presents: The Iron Quilter
Eight sewing machines, eight rulers, and eight rotary cutters — and eight incredible quiltmakers ready to compete! With a set collection of fabrics to choose from, the eight contestants will have four hours to design, cut, and sew a unique quilt top of any design or size for the competition.
It’s the IRON QUILTER!
The Tompkins County Quilters Guild (TCQG) presents IRON QUILTER as part of a yearlong celebration of their 50th Anniversary on Saturday, June 29th, from 10 am to 2:30 pm.
The free IRON QUILTER competition will take place at the Community Quiltmaking Center at ReUse MegaCenter, at 2255 N. Triphammer Rd., Ithaca, NY. Quilt makers, quilt appreciators, and interested community
Town of Ithaca Supervisor Rod Howe said the Town Board agreed to approach Cornell to inquire about the potential of coming to a PILOT deal last fall.
Preliminary Tompkins County 2024 assessment data shows that the university's property exempted from taxes totals more than $3.8 billion. $781 million of that taxexempt property lies within the Town of Ithaca, along with another $87 million of taxable property.
The university’s voluntary contributions to TCAT, the City, ICSD, and now the Town are in an attempt to offset the effects of the university’s tax-exempt status on the community. However, some say it still isn’t enough.
For years, activists have been rallying and advocating for Cornell to increase their contribution to the Ithaca community, often comparing Cornell’s contributions to those of other private Ivy League universities across the country.
ON THE COVER: Afghan Refugee Rahman Nasiri was hit and killed by a car on Route 13 last July. As the one-year anniversary of his death approaches, his family is still waiting to see the results of the investigation into the tragic incident that took his life.
members are invited to stroll through as the IRON QUILTER action is underway and enjoy the fun as they watch the eight quilt tops take shape.
The eight contestants who will compete for prizes in a variety of categories are members of the TCQG, and include Quinn Olsen-Bieber, Julia Olsen-Bieber, Anne Garretson, Andrea Gibbs, Barbara Jastran, Therese O'Connor, Jayne Port, and Munna Rubaii. Expert local quilters will serve as judges for the IRON QUILTER.
The eight quilts created in the IRON QUILTER will be auctioned off at the Tompkins County Quilters Guild’s upcoming quilt show in 2025 to benefit TCQG and the Community Quiltmaking Center.
For more information on the TCQG's IRON QUILTER, contact Nora Burrows at nktburrows@gmail.com or (607) 280-6417.
ON THE 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
THE ENTIRE CONTENTS OF THE ITHACA TIMES ARE COPYRIGHT © 2024, BY NEWSKI INC.
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
(1973–1978),
IN UIRING
By Mark Syvertson
QUESTION OF THE WEEK: THE 2024 OLYMPIC GAMES IN PARIS ARE A MONTH AWAY. IF YOU COULD ADD ANY EVENT, WHAT WOULD IT BE?
“I
ICSD Faces Leadership Shift as District and Middle School Admins Resign
By Maddy Vogel
In the past few weeks, various administrators in the Ithaca City School District (ICSD) have announced their departure from their roles, with the decision of Superintendent Luvelle Brown to not seek an annual renewal to his five-year contract and the departure of Deputy Superintendent Lily Talcott, who is secondin-line after Brown, from the district beginning Aug. 1.
Additionally, at the June 11 board of education meeting, the board accepted the resignation of two prominent individuals at the district’s middle schools: DeWitt Middle School Principal Carlan Gray and Educator of Inclusion at Boynton Middle School Karen Rachetta. Both individuals currently hold prominent leadership roles at their respective schools.
This news comes after both middle schools were cited as having Black or African American student subgroups as needing additional support, according to New York State Department of Education guidelines and standards.
Board documents show Gray’s reason for resignation as “personal” and Rachetta’s as “other employment.”
Rachetta has worked within the ICSD in multiple schools since 1997 as a teacher, assistant principal, associate principal and principal. She has served as the Educator for Inclusion at Boynton for the past five years, since July 2019.
In a letter sent to the DeWitt community on June 14, Gray shared the news of her resignation, effective June 30.
“It is with a mixture of sadness and gratitude that I write to inform you of my decision to resign from my position
as Principal of DeWitt Middle School, effective June 30, 2024,” Gray wrote. “Being part of this community has been an honor and joy, and I thank you for allowing me to serve your children for four years.”
In her letter, Gray thanked staff, students and families, and described her accomplishments that occurred during her time at DeWitt.
“During my time at DeWitt Middle School, we served our students during COVID-19, developed a more articulated Farm-to-Table Program, adapted equitable grading practices, started our annual Pride Parade, created DeWednesdays, and developed a block schedule,” Gray wrote. “I enjoyed teaching the 6th-grade Brain Science class for the last two years and saw the joy and frustration of instructing ‘gen alpha.’”
At the June 11 board of education meeting, Brown outlined Gray’s dedication to the district and her departure from the district.
“Now Carlan Gray didn’t leave because of the challenges associated with the pandemic,” Brown said. “She is going to be taking on some other things and it’s a personal leave at this moment.”
Lily Talcott:
In a letter to the ICSD community sent on Tuesday, June 18, Talcott announced her departure from the district. On the same day, Talcott signed her new contract as the next superintendent of Tompkins Seneca Tioga BOCES.
Talcott has served as the district’s deputy superintendent for the past six years, overseeing principals, instructional technology, mathematics curriculum and
instruction, annual professional performance review teacher evaluation, professional development and human resources at the district. Talcott is additionally the Title IX officer for the district.
Before serving as the deputy superintendent, Talcott was a principal of Northeast Elementary School from 2015 to 2018 and a district-wide teacher on special assignment. Talcott has taught first grade at Enfield Elementary School for five years and was a long-term substitute teacher and teacher aide when she first came to the district in 2006.
“The past two decades as an employee of this school district have been an absolute honor and privilege,” Talcott wrote in her letter to the community. “Growing up in this community and then returning to serve the place that gave me so much has been extraordinary.”
Talcott provided a statement to the Ithaca Times regarding her decision to leave her role at ICSD.
“I’ve had the honor of serving as deputy superintendent for six years in the ICSD, and although it has been incredibly meaningful, I was simply ready to support students, staff and families in a greater capacity,” Talcott wrote. “I grew up in the TST BOCES region, and have spent most of my professional career in this region as well, so having the opportunity to give back in this new role is exciting.”
Talcott said her position as the deputy superintendent will not be filled, and reflects a major part of the 22% reduction to the executive team that the district’s new budget contains.
“Women’s flag football.”
can change mine to rock climbing if that helps.”
Matt
“Women’s flag football.”
Marla
“Same. Women’s flag football.”
Morgan
“I gotta say women’s flag football, too.”
Keely
The Inquiring Photographer then learned this group traveled from Washington D.C. to play in a women’s flag football event and he expressed reservations about the optics of publishing so many of the same responses.
“I’ll say hot dog eating contest.”
Eliana
Dewitt Middle School Principal Carlan Gray has recently announced her departure from the district.
Lily Talcott will serve as the next TST-BOCES Superintendent, beginning next school year. (Photo: ICSD)
The Talk at
LETTERS TO THE EDITOR
Against Canceling School for Hot Weather
“As a parent of an ICSD student, I was surprised to learn that students would be released early for the last week of school due to high temperature forecasts. Later, an end of year evening popsicle party for students would be canceled for the same reason. Growing up in the area, I cannot recall school being canceled due to hot weather. Looking back at temperature highs in the month of June in the last decades, 90 degree days aren’t unheard of. While uncomfortable, such weather is typically managed by common sense measures like drinking water and fans. ICSD should weigh heavily the cost of closing school early to low income families and families with two working parents. Arranging last minute childcare for kids is a major burden for all parents. Moreover, kids are resilient and we should treat them as such. Having lived in tropical South East Asia, I saw Muslims fasting for Ramadan in the dead of sum-
mer and kids learning in classrooms with fans. I currently work as a carpenter with men ranging from 20-60 years old who all work through the heat. As a parent and tax payer I believe ICSD should do all it can to keep kids in school and learning. Our kids are resilient. A little heat won’t hurt them and if it does, we shouldn’t deny them a popsicle.” — Gabriel
Schickel
Response to the Juneteenth Guest Opinion
“Maybe I should not comment… Of all the opinions to be featured for Juneteenth Day, why did Ithaca Times choose a White Catholic Charities employee? I am floored by the impressively vapid immaterial and inconsequential point of this opinion piece. So, if it was not for slavery and the abolishment of slavery, would we not acknowledge the influence of the African Diaspora in our culture? Juneteenth is not a recognition of “Emancipation for one is liberations for all.” It is meant to acknowledge that slavery happened, and it was detrimental to black American/descendants of enslaved peoples. It reminds us that the abolishment of slavery was not widely accepted. That enslaved peoples were considered chattel, animals to be owned not people with human rights or to be treated humanely until every state in the Union recognized it on
June 19, 1865. I’m so sick of this nonsense. I don’t need opinions by white people in rural white America that google what black American contributions are to our culture and be thankful for my existence. Our region and the Catholic church have a rich history of people and events that contributed to the abolishment of slavery and the civil rights movement. Many of these stories are untold, whitewashed, or man-washed. These stories could have been shared. I am disappointed in the Ithaca times.” — Aziza Benson
Investigate DeWitt Middle School
“Investigate Dewitt middle school! Teachers learned about their position being cut from email from students who were told to select other language classes. Appalling lack of responsibility and transparency at Dewitt middle school. This is also a slap in the face for ICSD’s inclusivity and equity missions. Chinese language program is cut— do students learning Chinese not matter?” — Anonymous
RE: Lea Webb Vs. Mike Sigler
“Senator Webb Helps; Opponent Mike Sigler Hinders
This legislative term our Senator Lea Webb delivered this to Tompkins County (aka “607”):
• Over $9.2 million for transportation maintenance
• $50,000 for Tompkins County Chamber of Commerce
• $300,000 for Tompkins County EMS Consolidation
• $104,000 for veteran-to-veteran By contrast, opponent Sigler joined MAGA Elise Stafanik, suing to block Early Voting by Mail.
The choice in this fall’s election is simple: Webb for caring and common sense or Mike Sigler for MAGA nonsense.” — Joseph Wilson
“Funny how you lay out both candidates’ positives but then at the end only talk about Siglers negatives. I guess Lea Webb is just perfect? And can you spare me the "reproductive rights" nonsense. You can abort your unborn child up until delivery in this state, which is disgusting. What reproductive rights do women not have in this state? People can’t afford food, housing, gas and just about anything thanks to Democratic policies. My property taxes went up $2,000 dollars this year. Ithaca still raised the school budget even after the first ridiculous one was voted down. When was the last time any program was cut? When will elected officials start living like the rest of us?” — Ragnar LodBlox
“There is nothing positive to say about Sigler. Example, former slumlord. Another example —AGAINST MAILIN VOTING. Third example — AGAINST REPRODUCTIVE RIGHTS FOR WOMEN. Another example — LOVES GUNS! On the other hand, Webb CARES about the people in this community — food issues, more affordable housing, women’s reproductive rights, etc. She advocates mail in voting — great for older people or those without transportation to get to the polls. Leah Webb has REALLY TRIED hard for the people in this district. PLEASE DON'T ELECT A FRAUD as a State Senator — KEEP WEBB — she’s EXCELLENT.” — Elisabeth Hegarty
Temple Beth-El in Ithaca Appoints New Rabbi and Education Director
“Temple Beth-El, the largest synagogue in Tompkins County, has appointed Rabbi Caleb Brommer, a recent graduate of the Jewish Theological Seminary of America, as its new rabbi. He will fill a vacancy at Temple Beth-El since its former rabbi accepted another position in 2023 and take over as rabbi on July 1.
Calle Schueler will also become the synagogue’s new director of education and engagement on July 1.” — Sherrie Negrea
nent districts, and our greater state in this new role,” Talcott wrote.
Talcott said she is looking forward to serving as the next superintendent of TST-BOCES, which she will begin on August 1 of this year.
“Although I’ve shed many tears imagining not working with you all every day, I am very much looking forward to serving the TST BOCES community, nine compo-
Superintendent Luvelle Brown provided the Ithaca Times with a statement regarding Talcott’s departure from the district.
“Ms. Talcott is one of the most talented educators in the state and country,” Brown wrote. “The moment she was appointed to lead at TST, she instantly became one of our industry’s best superintendents.”
UPS DOWNS&
Ups
Ithaca Carshare will be celebrating its 16th anniversary on June 25, 2024 from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. at the Bernie Milton Pavillion in the Ithaca Commons. The festivities will include free, locally made cupcakes, a showcase of our Electric Vehicles (EVs), and remarks by NYS Senator Lea Webb.
Downs
An Ithaca man faces multiple charges after allegedly attempting to break into a residence and leading police on a chase early Wednesday morning.
HEARD SEEN&
Heard
The official ribbon-cutting ceremony for the completion of the Black Diamond Trail Bridge Project over the Flood Control Channel will take place on June 28, at 2:30 p.m. at the east end of the bridge, near the intersection of Cherry Street and Cecil A. Malone Drive.
Seen
The Community School of Music and Arts in Ithaca received a $50,000 grant from T-Mobile to renovate the school, including a project to abate and restore the 2nd-floor windows.
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
Should the city of Ithaca pass a resolution to opt-in to Good Cause Eviction?
23 5 % Yes
75.8% No.
0.6 % I don’t care.
“We’re
not
conceding anything”:
Cornell University and United Auto Workers Bargain for New Contract
By Dorothy France-Miller
Cornell University and the United Auto Workers are currently negotiating the terms for their 2024-2026 contract.
The UAW — which recently won significant wage and benefit gains in the Detroit automaker industry — is a union representing about 1,400 employees across diverse industries, including dining workers, gardeners, custodians, transportation and more. While the current contract between Cornell University and UAW Local 2300 — which represents Cornell service and maintenance workers — is set to expire June 30, there are a number of later bargaining dates in case the discussions are extended further.
The negotiations are currently taking place between representatives of Cornell University and the union’s bargaining team, and the bargaining will end when both parties come to a mutual agreement on a new contract.
“We continue to bargain in good faith on terms and conditions of employment, including wages, and are hopeful to reach an agreement soon,” a university spokesperson shared with the Times.
According to Christine Johnson, president of UAW Local 2300, the union is focused on “improving the living and working conditions of [their] membership.” This includes bargaining for a substantial wage increase, along with cost-of-living adjustments.
“We’re not conceding anything,” Johnson said. “I can tell you that very little, if any, language will be struck [from the union’s contract draft]. We’re not conceding anything.”
In the 2023 fiscal year, Cornell’s endowment rose to over $10 billion, according to the Cornell Chronicle. This endowment is utilized to pay employees of the university.
ity,” said Curtis Charles, Cornell Dining, in “We are the Heart, Soul, and Backbone of Cornell,” a video released June 12 where UAW Local 2300 members described their experiences and perspectives working at Cornell.
Cost-of-living adjustments are increases in Social Security benefits and Supplemental Security Income to counteract inflation. They are typically measured by the Consumer Price Index for Urban Wage Earners and Clerical Workers and adjust annually with inflation.
“We feel that [COLAs are] a really sparse thing to ask an employer for, as the risk is shared,” Johnson said. “If there’s no inflation, or if inflation is small, then we don't get [the benefits]. But if there is inflation, then it ensures that what we bought yesterday, we can still buy today.”
Workers in the June 12 UAW video echoed similar concerns about pay that they say is insufficient to meet Ithaca’s high cost of living.
ing to the bargaining update, Cornell said they had seen the recent UAW video and agreed that the UAW workers are the “Heart, soul and backbone of Cornell.”
According to Johnson, the university suffers from understaffing, primarily a result of the pandemic. But although the staff size is smaller, the amount of work that is expected to be completed has not changed.
“When you need ten hands to do work but you have four hands, those four hands are expected to accomplish a lot,” Johnson said. “And the workload, health and safety, mental fatigue, worrying about your bills because the money doesn’t stretch as far as it used to… all of those things have had an impact on our workforce.”
These concerns about understaffing are echoed in Cornell greenhouse grower Leo Lewis’s statements in the video.
“We’re chronically short-staffed,” Lewis said. “We’re chronically dealing with one or two positions absent.”
Do you think making it easier for residents to build Accessory Dwelling Units will have a positive impact on Ithaca’s housing supply?
Visit ithaca.com to submit your response.
Many UAW members reference the living wage as a benchmark for their ideal pay. While the minimum wage for UAW Local 2300 members is $18.19, the living wage for an individual with no children in Tompkins County is calculated to be $24.64, according to the MIT Living Wage Calculator.
“Hopefully that dream, just being able to have a living wage, will become a real-
“House is double. Tax is double. Food is double. And tuition is double also. Everything double, but our pay did not double,” said Gopini Lama, a Cornell Food Service employee who spoke in the video.
According to a June 17 bargaining update by the UAW, “Cornell stated that… they will take it to heart to better respond to the Union’s interests and requests, including COLA.” Additionally, accord-
Many of the positions currently facing understaffing and being negotiated by the UAW Local 2300 and Cornell are filled by full-time Ithaca residents.
“What happens with our membership affects the whole Ithaca community and the surrounding counties,” Johnson said. “Cornell has a huge impact [on Ithaca and surrounding counties] in so many regards. And this is not a small one.”
Cornell University service and maintenance workers, represented by UAW Local 2300, are negotiating a new contract to secure better wages and conditions before the current one expires on June 30, 2024. (Photo: Provided)
LACS 50th Anniversary Celebration
By Marjorie Olds
In 1978 Chris Sperry, then a senior at Ithaca College, arrived as a volunteer at the New Junior High Program (NJHP), the school that would evolve into today’s Lehman Alternative Community School (LACS). Originally a film major at IC, Chris had become increasingly interested in media literacy for young people—teaching students how to read, interpret and think about their media-saturated world. He offered to set up a dark room and to teach a class called Media and Images
Much loved and revered David Lehman, with his new wife Judy, founded NJHP in 1974 as Ithaca’s public alternative school for grades 7-9. The Lehman’s were in their 30’s when the project launched in the old Markle’s Flats building on Court and Plain Streets. A controversial earlier project from 1969-1972 had been closed down, but with student, parental and community support the NJHP was created.
The principles of a student-run democratic school program were embodied in an ICSD document entitled the ”Lavender Proposal.” Lehman added key components that are still part of the school 50 years later: a weekly all-school meeting where each student and staff member has one vote, a staff collective with consensus decision-making, family groups and committees, a spring trips week (started as an all-school trip when the enroll-
ment was smaller), and other structures that ensured student involvement in all aspects of the school.
Over the 50 years since NJHP was created with 65 students in grades 7-9, the school has grown. In 1978 the Alternative Community High School was formed, and a 6th grade was added in 1981. In 1983 the Alterative Community School moved to its current location in the old West Hill Elementary School with 120 students. In 2004, with Dave and Judy’s retirement (Judy was the school clerk), the school was renamed the Lehman Alternative Community School to recognize the almost 30 years “D. Dave” led and inspired this school that now has about 300 students. The essential principles which underpin the school remain intact and have stood the test of time.
Chris graduated from IC in 1979 and was hired as a teacher’s aide at NJHP, later on as a Social Studies, English and Media Studies teacher, and finally an instructional coach for the school before retiring in 2020. With his background in media production, Chris used diverse media (film clips, songs, posters, websites, etc.) to teach and to integrate habits of critical thinking into the core curriculum.
“At ACS I had 40 years of opportunity to develop a healthy, exciting way to teach students to be invested in their own education. I saw the teacher’s role to listen to
The Downside of Good Cause Eviction
By Nathan M. Lyman
The “Good Cause Eviction” law (“the Law”) is mis-named. It’s true purpose is to impose rent control on Ithaca. The City has not considered the economic impacts of this law. It has not consulted with the County Assessor or the general business community, in a rush to be one of the first to impose the Law, which is arguably unconstitutional.
Rent Control does not work and is counterproductive. A 2019 study of the 1994 rent control law in San Francisco found that the supply of rental units went down 15%, and over the long run rents went up, undermining the goal of the law. A 1992 study found that 93% of professional economists agreed that rent control reduces the quality and quantity of housing. A study of Cambridge, MA, which eliminated rent control in 1994, found “the success of rent decontrol in Cambridge provide important lessons that should inform the debate over the issue in New York” finding “a concrete example of complete rent deregulation leading to housing investment that would otherwise not have occurred…”
The Law says it applies “to all housing accommodations except…” for 15 separate exemptions. Three of those exemptions will negate its application to most tenants in Ithaca. These include public and subsidized housing, properties built in the last 30 years, and schools/universities. Ithaca Housing Authority, other subsidized properties, Cornell, Ithaca College, and new large properties will be exempt.
The Law has two exemptions the City is significantly limiting. One is for small landlords. The state legislature created a safe harbor for small landlords defined as owning 10 units or fewer. The City changes the definition to 1. The second deals with wealthy renters who pay more than FMV for an apartment. This does not really apply in Ithaca, because those people own their home, and generally don’t rent.
The majority of the city budget is paid by property taxes. There are 5,506 tax parcels in the City. With a 2024 assessment of $6,714,339,468, wholly tax-exempt properties account for 56.89% (3,819,765,701). Wholly tax-exempt includes Cornell, IC, not for profits, churches, and governmental buildings. IDA exempted properties are
5.12% ($343,590,001) and City taxable properties are $2,811,131,979. The City taxable number is understated because it includes partial exemptions, such as seniors, veterans, and 581-a subsidized housing.
581-a is a special tax classification that statutorily alters the fair market value (FMV) of properties downward. Although these properties pay some tax, it is based on an assessment significantly lower than the FMV of similar properties. Every time there is a new 581-a project in the city, it reduces the amount of FMV land available to pay taxes, and effectively increases taxes on the remaining FMV taxpayers.
A comparison is Breckenridge Apartments (581-a) to Lofts at Six Mile Creek (FMV). Both were built around the same time and are similar in size. Breckenridge is assessed at $1,115,000. The land cost in 2014 was $1,100,000. Based on 2024 assessments, the average unit assessment is $7,300. Lofts is assessed at $9,000,000; its average per-unit assessment is $189,565. Breckenridge would be assessed at about $9,480,000 but for 581-a. There are 13 581-a properties in the City, all of which will be exempt from the Law. Only 42% of the total assessment are taxpayers. 94 properties equaling 1.7% of the total parcels in the city comprise 30.79% of the taxable property value. The remaining taxpayers are landlords with 10 or fewer units and residential owners. Residential assessments are set differently than commercial. If commercial income stays flat or goes down, or expenses go up, or the perceived risk of owning goes up, commercial assessments go down. Rent control artificially depresses income. Inflation drives expenses up for landlords, like everyone else. Interest rates remain high. Rent control laws significantly affect investment risk-based decisions. These effects reduce the value of commercial property. If commercial assessments go down, the only taxpayers left to pay are single family homeowners. Who does the Law benefit? Although some say it protects tenants, there has been no analysis to see how many tenants live in exempt units, or how many evictions occur annually and who brings the action. The City has not yet responded to our FOIA request, and Common Council does not say. The anticipated answers are most tenants
The Lehman Alternative Community School (LACS) will be celebrating their 50th anniversary from July 12-14, 2024. (Photo: Robyn Wishna)
Killed on Route 13
The Unresolved Case of Afghan Refugee Rahman Nasiri
By Matt Dougherty
In July 2023, a tragic accident on Route 13 claimed the life of Rahman Nasiri, an Afghan refugee who had recently arrived in Ithaca. Nasiri, a former interpreter for the U.S. military, had come to the United States on a Special Immigrant Visa with his wife and four children, seeking safety after the Taliban assumed control over Afghanistan following the withdrawal of the United States Military in 2021. Mr. Nasiri’s life was full of hope, but it was tragically cut short just 13 days after arriving in Ithaca.
On the afternoon of July 14, Nasiri was likely navigating his way home from a trip to the local Aldi supermarket using a GPS that those close to him expected might have been incorrectly set for driving instead of walking. Nasiri was unfamiliar with the route, and as he walked on the shoulder of Route 13, a driver veered off the road, hitting and killing him instantly.
The driver, a woman who remains unidentified, was not arrested at the scene. Witnesses reported that she did not apply her brakes before the collision and remained in her car on the phone when the police arrived. An Ithaca Voice article published one day after the incident stated that the driver “did not want to leave the vehicle and was uncooperative with police.”
Despite these circumstances, the responding officers from the Tompkins County Sheriff’s Office did not conduct sobriety tests or check for drug or alcohol impairment.
Dr. Wali Ahmadezai, a close friend of Mr. Nasiri who also worked with the U.S. military in Afghanistan, said, “The police told me [the driver] was acting normal and didn’t seem intoxicated, but they didn’t check her blood or run any tests.” This lack of immediate investigation has raised significant concerns among Nasiri’s family and local advocacy groups like Ithaca Welcomes Refugees (IWR).
Ahmadezai has been one of the primary supporters of the grieving Nasiri family. He recounted the moment when he realized something was wrong, saying, “I called him, but he didn’t respond. Then I
went to his home, and his kids said he had gone out. When he didn’t answer his phone after a while, I knew something was wrong.”
According to Ahmadezai, “It’s been almost a year since the incident, and the family still doesn’t have any closure or substantial information about the accident.” He added, “We don’t understand why it’s taking so long.”
In response to questions about why the driver was not given a sobriety test at the scene of the incident, Tompkins County Sheriff Derek Osborne said “Field sobriety tests are run after reasonable suspicion is garnered during our interactions with a person. If no signs of intoxication are present, field sobriety tests are not conducted.” Osborne continued saying, “The other party in this incident had lengthy interactions with law enforcement personnel as well as medical staff [and] there were issues in this circumstance not connected to intoxication that would have made running tests impossible.”
“It’s been almost a year since the incident, and the family still doesn’t have any closure or substantial information about the accident.”
When asked to elaborate about why there was not “reasonable suspicion” to conduct a sobriety test, Osborne said that he was not comfortable talking about an open case, and that he was “not interested in contributing to a story if [the] angle is to inappropriately place blame on his office.”
— Dr. Wali Ahmadezai
Ray Schlather, a local attorney, has been providing pro bono legal assistance to the Nasiri family. He expressed surprise that no field sobriety tests were conducted on the driver immediately after the accident. “In this case, I’m surprised that they did not do more roadside analysis to determine whether there was any external factor that would explain this incident.”
He continued saying, “Officers cannot require a motorist to do anything other than answer basic questions unless they have an articulable reason to do so, [but] I would argue that hitting a pedestrian on the side of the road is an articulable basis
Afghan Refugee and former interpreter for the US military, Rahman Nasiri, was struck by a car and killed on Route 13 on July 14, 2023. His family is still waiting to see the results of an investigation into the incident. (Photo: File)
The tragic incident that took Mr. Nasiri’s life just 13 days after arriving in Ithaca took place on Route 13 between North Triphammer Road and Warren Road. (Photo: Google Maps)
for pursuing that line of inquiry and examination.”
According to Schlather, “They could have done the field sobriety tests that would test for alcohol, and they also could have done similar kinds of tests that test for the presence of drugs, but they did neither”.
Despite the concerns, Schlather defended the overall efforts of law enforcement. “I have a huge amount of respect for the problems that they have and the barriers that they confront,” he said, acknowledging the systemic challenges law enforcement faces. “I’m not suggesting that the police were not attentive. It’s just unfortunate that the system is so bogged down.”
According to Schlather, the only significant piece of evidence being awaited is the report on the driver’s phone usage at the time of the accident. “The critical piece that everybody’s been waiting for is the cell phone analysis. They can take cell phone data and determine if there was any texting going on, if the phone was being used at that time, and so forth.”
investigation process. “My last message from the district attorney was that they’re still waiting for the report to be released,” Schlather said.
According to IWR volunteer Wendy Wallitt, “The accident reconstruction was done but nobody has received the report.” Wallitt added, “The family was told the phone report could take up to 10 months to complete [but] It is now almost 11 months.”
Regarding the timeline for the phone report Schlather said, “You’re sometimes waiting up to two years to get forensic results from a cell phone analysis.”
“They could have done the field sobriety tests that would test for alcohol, and they also could have done similar kinds of tests that test for the presence of drugs, but they did neither.”
— Ray Schlather
Members of the community, including those from Ithaca Welcomes Refugees (IWR), believe that if Nasiri had been an American citizen, the investigation might have been more thorough. They believe the case has highlighted potential disparities in the treatment of immigrants by law enforcement in the United States.
Wallitt said, “Right now, Interfaith Works of CNY pays $1,104 toward their monthly rent [and] the remainder of the rent comes from the DSS shelter allowance.” She added, “Soon, the Interfaith Works support will end and IWR will take over that portion of their rent.” Wallitt continued saying, “IWR is paying their NYSEG bill, internet ($49.99/mo), and a travel loan of $131/mo to the US government for their flights to the US.”
The driver’s insurance company offered a settlement of $52,000. However, accepting this amount would require the family to forego any further legal action. The decision is further complicated by the families current reliance on means-tested public assistance programs, which they would have to stop receiving in order to be eligible to receive the settlement. “If this family were to receive a settlement even in the amount of only $52,000, it would preclude them from getting public assistance,” Schlather explained.
Schlather emphasized the importance of this analysis in understanding why the driver veered off the road and hit Nasiri. “Hopefully, cell phone data will help us know.” However, the family and community's patience has been tested by the lengthy
While Nasiri’s family continues to struggle with their loss and the complexities of their situation, they have been receiving support from IWR, which has provided financial assistance to the family. According Wallitt, “After Mr. Nasiri’s death, IWR created and raised money for a Crisis Fund [and] we are able to cover many incidental expenses for the family from that fund.”
Nasiri’s widow, Anjeela, who is now left as a single mother to four children is still learning English and has limited job prospects. She faces a daunting future without her husband’s support, and must decide wether or not she wants to pursue a civil liability lawsuit against the driver for negligence, or take the liability insurance payment of $52,000.
Schlather’s office has verified that the driver has minimal assets, suggesting that pursuing further legal action may not yield substantial financial compensation. Despite this, the family remains undecided about whether to accept the settlement or continue seeking justice.
This case underscores the urgent need for a thorough and transparent investigation. The community, led by advocates like Dr. Ahmadezai and organizations such as IWR, continues to press for answers and justice. As the one-year anniversary of the tragedy approaches, they call on the Tompkins County Sheriff’s Office, the District Attorney and the New York State Police to provide the closure and accountability that the family deserves.
Osborne said there was not “reasonable suspicion” to conduct a test. (Photo: File)
process. We want to hear from them about what’s going on,” he said. “The law should be the same for everyone.”
Despite the tragic circumstances, Schlather highlighted the resilience of the Nasiri family and the robust support they have received from the Ithaca community.
“He spent his whole life working with the U.S. for a better life for his kids, and now we want the same rights and justice for him.”
— Dr. Wali Ahmadezai
“The children are going to school, they’re learning English, their mother is in the community [and] the community is providing tremendous support.”
Regarding potential charges against the driver, Schlather stated that if distracted driving is confirmed in the phone report, charges such as manslaughter or criminally negligent homicide could be pursued. He added, “It’s up to the district attorney to decide whether he wishes to pursue that track or not [and] I have not heard anything from the district attorney to suggest that he would not do that.”
“We just want justice,” Ahmadezai said. “He spent his whole life working with the U.S. for a better life for his kids, and now we want the same rights and justice for him.” Ahmadezai emphasized the importance of bringing attention to the case through the media, hoping it will expedite the investigation. “We need to speed up the
The story of Rahman Nasiri and his family is a reminder of the challenges faced by those who risk their lives to support U.S. missions abroad, only to encounter tragedy and bureaucratic indifference upon reaching safety. It is a call to action for the community to demand justice and compassion for all its members, regardless of if they’re American citizens or not.
Sheriff Derek Osborne confirmed that a sobriety test was not conducted on the driver after they hit & killed Mr. Nasiri.
(left to right) Rahman Nasiri ’ s four children, Bibi Hora, Borhan, Rehan, and Numan are receiving support from Ithaca Welcomes Refugees, which has paid for utilities and their travel loan to the United States. (Photo: Provided)
The Other Lakers
Cayuga Lakers Keep Baseball Alive During the Summer Months
By Steve Lawrence
Irecall when the Ithaca Lakers first took the field in 1978, as a part of the New York Collegiate Baseball League. This latest version of the Lakers — the Cayuga Lakers — took shape when David Valesente, Ithaca College’s current baseball coach and this year’s Tournament Director, put it all together when he was coaching at Wells College, about six years ago.
When I arrived at Ithaca College Sunday around 8:30 a.m., there was a lone figure on Valesente Diamond at Freeman Field, raking the field for about the tenthousandth time. It was George Valesente, who coached the Bombers for 41 years, helping his son David coached the team for several years before handing it over to the Bombers’ assistant coach, Cooper Belyea (Ithaca High class of 2011, Ithaca College class of 2015).
The Lakers would face the Gators (from Clifton Springs), and starting pitcher Isiah Smith would face some early trouble. A double-play ball was booted, that led to a rally, and the home team was down 3-0 before they even came up to bat. When they did, Wiley Smalls did what lead-off hitter are supposed to do: He worked the count, fouled off a couple of pitches, then got things going with an infield hit, swiping second and scoring on a single to put the Lakers on the board. Smalls — a rising junior at Ithaca High — would add a couple more hits, steal another base or two, and play some solid second base. Starter Smith would stay strong throughout the game, and got some help from his defense on some long shots, some of which would have been gone on a high school field, but were instead run down by some outfielders who were adjusting to covering so much ground. As if paying homage to the late,
Georgia Peaches
great Willie Mays, center fielder Nik Nelson looked right at home out there, and tracked down two of three bombs that I thought were in the gap for extra bases.
Nelson’s Trumansburg teammate Will Puryear supplied some sharp defense as well at first base, looking very smooth on a sharp double play to get Smith out of one jam, and displayed some helpful offensive chops as well.
Smith would buckle down after that rough first inning, give up but one more run, and would also add three hits. The Lakers kept battling, and would ultimately take the 5-4 win.
It was fun for me to talk to Dave Valesente, as he was a kindergarten student doubling as a bat boy when I started
LANDLORD AGAINST GOOD CAUSE EVICTION
continued from page 7
live in exempt properties and small/subsidized landlords turn to courts most often. The answer to who benefits most is government, large property developers with new buildings, and Cornell/IC. This Law gives exempt parties an unfair advantage. Small landlord own older buildings and receive less income; they buy local and their money stays in the community. Yet it is they who are not exempt and will pay the price for this folly. Ultimately, it will also be the single-family homeowner — residential assessments are zooming. When commercial values stagnate or go down and residential goes up, the burden will fall more on the residential taxpayer. Of course, the near 60% tax exempt property owners won’t care, because they don’t pay any tax. Real estate has always been a way of achieving the American dream across all socio-economic levels. Most larger family-based landlords in Ithaca started
writing this column and coming up to I.C. to interview his dad. Now, George helps out with the tournament, keeps an eye on Dave's soon-to-be 3 year-old daughter, and the innings of life just keep rolling up the baseline.
I asked Dave how much of a role his own recruiting needs play in his being involved with a high school travel team (that will play in six tournaments and showcases this summer), and he said, “Well, maybe some of these guys will play for us, and help us win, but that not the main reason I am involved.” As he said that, he motioned toward the parents in the stands, many of whom have built their social lives around baseball, and have known one another for years. Valesente added, “It’s mostly about the community.”
out decades ago with a unit and a dream. They did not have money, but did sweat equity management. They fixed up dilapidated houses, bought local, invested locally and the city benefited. Many seniors have been able to stay in their home by renting, in spite of their taxes and water bills going up every year. This Law will limit their income, but not their water bills.
The city cannot assume that the historical golden goose of off campus students that make up most of the City’s tenant population and contribute to the commercial tax payments will continue, as new student housing outside the City has recently been announced (Maplewood 2) and large new on-campus tax exempt properties continue to be built.
The Law should not be adopted. It will confirm to developers and investors that Ithaca is anti-business. The City, existing wealthy out of town developers, and institutions with billion dollar endowments will be exempt, while the City dumps on small business and senior citizen taxpayers, just to make a political statement.
Isiah Smith delivers. (Credit Emily Russell. Photo: Provided)
Despite Yellow Deli Protest, a Plaque Commemorating Firebrand Books is Revealed at Last
By Kira Walter
On Saturday, June 15th, at 10:30 AM, a postponed victory for Ithaca’s LGBTQ community was finally won.
After two and a half years of debate, a plaque in honor of Firebrand Books, a local publishing house specializing in lesbian and feminist literature, was erected in the commons. Supporters of the globally recognized press met at the plaque’s new location for a brief revealing ceremony and a few words of appreciation.
Founded by activist Nancy K. Bereano, the company had its first offices on the second story of the Home Dairy building at 143 East State Street from 1984 to 2000. Although the memorial plaque was supposed to be installed into the original headquarters, the project was prevented by current owners at the Yellow Deli. The well-known restaurant was opened by the Twelve Tribes, a religious group openly opposed to homosexuality.
A stark message on the Twelves Tribes website summarizes their stance on homosexuality.
“We embrace what God says on this subject without regard for political correctness,” the website states. “Homosexual behavior is immoral and can be mortally dangerous.”
The initiative to commemorate Firebrand Books was started by Dr. Jeffrey Iovannone, who sought to establish a marker for the publishing house as a Cornell course final project. When he applied for a landmark nomination in October 2022, Ithaca’s Common Council approved it unanimously. Still, required agreement from Twelve Tribes occupants complicated the installation process.
Owners denied the act of recognition, arguing that it could confuse the building’s purpose as a restaurant. However, a pattern of homophobic behavior from this group caused Firebrand’s advocates to question whether preventing the plaque stemmed from a place of prejudice.
After eight months of frustrating delegation with Twelve Tribes and the city, Iovannone and Bereano attended Common Council on July 5th of 2023. There, they vouched to memorialize Firebrand Books and communicated concern about the refusal’s homophobic implications. Reflecting upon the immense difficulties the founder experienced in obtaining this landmark, she alluded directly to discrimination demonstrated by the religious group.
Founder Nancy K. Bereano and her partner Elisabeth Nonas pose before Firebrand’s memorial plaque after it was presented to the public this past weekend.
“There are people in this town who do hate and are very clear about hating. And who extensively were making a recognition of Firebrand impossible, in spite of the preservation folks, in spite of common council, in spite of all the regulatory bodies who said yes we should do this,” she stated.
Despite a steep uphill battle, determined government officials and allies of Firebrand continued to pursue a landmark on city property. Since building owners were unwilling to cooperate, arrangements were made for a historical marker across the street. With the help of City Manager Deb Molenhoff and Mayor Robert Cantelmo, a plaque now stands neighboring the early offices of the awardwinning lesbian press.
Prior to revealing the monument on Saturday morning, Iovannone light-heartedly addressed the milestone this has been for Bereano late in her impressive career.
“I think she didn’t imagine that at age 80, in addition to being an organizer, an activist, a feminist and lesbian publisher, that she would
add preservationist to the many hats she’s won over the years,” he joked.
Sitting before the long-awaited memorial, Bereano spoke fondly of Firebrand’s legacy in publishing books that have changed queer culture. She expressed the significance of having her hometown recognize her achievements after residing here for over fifty years. Friends Stephanie Bailey and Linda Mikula revealed the plaque ceremoniously for a quick photoop. Then Firebrands supporters celebrated their triumph over drinks and snacks at the Tompkins Center For History & Culture.
Before Bereano’s company presented the marker, she addressed the enduring strength of women and the LGBTQ community in this environment.
“We have a long-term place in Ithaca and society,” she said. “We should make that known and enjoy ourselves.”
Kira Walter is a reporter from The Cornell Daily Sun working on The Sun’s summer fellowship at The Ithaca Times.
Arts & Entertainment
Dead Funny: Hangar’s ‘Ride the Cyclone’ Kills it
By Barbara Adams
The Hangar Theatre, currently celebrating its 50th year, is unquestionably one of Ithaca’s cultural treasures. Prevailing past the challenges of floods and finances, it’s gifted Ithaca with decades of creativity, inspiration, and community. A half century ago the opening show was the evocative musical
“Ride the Cyclone,”
book, music, and lyrics by Jacob Richmond and Brooke Maxwell, directed by Shirley Serotsky. At the Hangar Theatre, 801 Taughannock Blvd, Ithaca, nightly through Saturday, June 29 at 7:30 p.m., also a 2:30 p.m. matinee on June 29.
Tickets online at boxoffice@hangartheatre.org or call (607) 273-2787.
“Man of La Mancha,” with its noble old knight following his idealistic vision; I remember reviewing it enthusiastically. And unsurprisingly, this season’s opening production, “Ride the Cyclone” — with book, music, and lyrics by Canadians Jacob Richmond and Brooke Maxwell — deserves equal raves.
But this contemporary musical (from 2008) focuses on youth, not age; and the quest doesn’t move forward, but back in time, as six teenagers recount their life stories. Their transport hasn’t been a tired nag but a perilous roller coaster ride; Don Quixote’s blazing purpose has been superseded by their longing, uncertainty, and for most, stuckness.
What’s so unusual? Well, the stage is filled with dead people and a fortunetelling machine. These six students from
St. Cassian High School chamber choir in Uranium, Saskatchewan, have been killed by a derailed car on an amusement park ride. Still wearing their tidy school uniforms, they’re now in some strange fairgrounds limbo being addressed by an automaton, The Amazing Karnak. He imposes a game: one of them alone can come back to life, and each gets to present their case. Caveat: they must decide the winner themselves, unanimously.
This bizarre scenario is tragic, grotesque (one of the three girls has been
decapitated in the accident), provocative, weird, and as it turns out, terribly funny, moving, and ultimately joyous. Seeing this dead teen musical may be one of the most upbeat experiences you’ll have this summer. (Trust me.)
The topic being odd, I discovered that yes, horrible roller coaster accidents do happen (people love tracking these online), but the worst in Canada was in 1986, on the Mindbender, only six months after it opened in an Alberta mall; three perished. And Uranium City is a real place in Saskatchewan (Canada is, after all, second in global uranium production); its population never grew much above 2,500, but when the mines closed there in 1982, people fled; fewer than 100 still reside there. So even in its heyday, for young people, this was a dead-end town.
Before we meet them, first, the excellent set, by Jason Simms: a murky nowhere framed by an old-time arcade arch, splendidly lit by Elizabeth Stewart. The three-man band is upstage (keyboardist Jeremy Pletter lustily singing along with the ensemble). Opposite is The Amazing Karnak, swathed in fabrics and dangling coins like a vaudeville soothsayer (costumes by Andrea Mejuto). Guitarist and musical director Chris Blisset portrays him in comic complexity: Karnak keeps changing the rules of the game, to the kids’ frustration, but he’s sanguine about his own approaching death: the Rat will eat through his electric cord, ending it all. Curiouser and curiouser, this all comes together well thanks to producing artistic director Shirley Serotsky, whoes the comic absurdity perfectly. Her lively staging is complemented by Aimee Rials’ choreography (the movements changing along with the song genres, like the Russian chain dance). First up to defend her right to live is Ocean (Madelaine Vandeberg), the
“Ride The Cyclone” is playing at the Hangar Theatre nightly through Saturday, June 29 at 7:30 p.m. There is also a 2:30 p.m. matinee on June 29. (Photo: Rachel Philipson)
50th Anniversary Cookbook Emphasizes the Importance of Eating Local
By Kira Walter
The Ithaca Farmers Market is turning 50 years old and what better gift to give this iconic town staple than a cookbook? On Saturday, June 15th, Ithaca Farmers Market: A Seasonal Guide And Cookbook Celebrating The Market’s First 50 Years was distributed for the first time at Steamboat Landing. Local authors Michael Turback and Izzy Lecek have compiled 117 recipes incorporating produce from 48 contributing vendors. In addition to seasonal dishes, this cookbook will describe the history of a tradition that has embodied the town’s spirit for decades.
When asked about the purpose behind this project, Turback emphasized that it belongs to the market’s members.
“The book is focused on producers. There was very specific intent to write a book that told their stories,” Turback said. This sentiment rings true throughout the publication, beginning with pictures of vendors and their products. Brief anecdotes about vendor narratives above each recipe add a personal touch to the cookbook, while seasonal sections are divided with the market’s ongoing history.
After working closely with Macro Mamas and other vendors, Lecek described their intentions to celebrate unique aspects of business throughout their writing process.
“The book is a love letter to the food community,” they explained.
Since publishing the first market cookbook in 2010, Turback also focused more on catering to the average Ithacan cook. He and Lecek crafted simple recipes that are easy to follow regardless of culinary skill.
As the market changes vastly with the local harvest, authors also wrote the book as a practical shopping guide.
Recipes draw on the selection of available produce within each season, sorted into beverages, appetizers, mains, and desserts. Including cocktails and small plates combines fun and practicality in this
cookbook intended for all market lovers from spring to winter.
“[The market] always seems to be changing from year to year, with younger people coming in passionate about farming,” Turback explained. “It never gets stale.”
In addition to increasing accessibility and market revenue, co-authors wrote the cookbook to advocate for eating local. Everything sold at Steamboat Landing is produced within a 30-mile radius, so even a small purchase works wonders for the local economy.
In an interview with the Times, longtime market member Greg Reynolds broke down the monetary impact of buying from vendors.
“There’s 500,000 people in Tompkins County, right? If all those people spend $10 at the market, it's $5 million a week. The small impact by everyone makes a great impact on the local economy,” he said.
Reynolds owns Glenwood Farms, a sixth-generation family business that has been selling bison meat since 2007. He adopted Waid’s Honey, a market staple since 1977, from family friends after former owner Duayne. Now, both operations run with the mission of reducing food miles.
Limited transportation hours guarantee a fresher variety of groceries than those available at many corporate stores. Farmto-table options are also natural, untouched by chemicals and other outside parties.
“We’ve all become more health conscious. As we’ve become more health conscious, we realize how bad it is to eat processed foods,” Turback supported.
“If you buy something grown locally, it hasn’t traveled a lot. By the time it gets to the typical grocery store, it's not the same product anymore. But when you go to the farmer's market, you’re often buying produce that was picked that morning. Not only but grown in a loving way. On a small enough scale, crops are treated with care.”
Another aspect that differentiates the market from supermarket chains is the sense of comradery between vendors at work. The collaborative nature of the market is reflected in the cookbook as recipes connect booths to each other.
Baker Stephan Sanders was very adamant about the value of combining market ingredients. He founded Wide Awake Bakery, inspired by the cideries, vineyards, and farms surrounding his business. With an emphasis on using quality local flour, he sought to complement other products growing in the region.
“We saw our bakery as this vehicle elevates your tomato, elevates your cheese. A lot of bakers want their bread to be the star. But the bread is always doing a service,” Sanders said.
Upon hearing about the cookbook, he was delighted to discover his bread is “finding other homes.” The cookbook assists him in his journey, pairing his baked goods with local Ithaca produce. His determination while contributing to the flourishing food environment is shared by other vendors who pay homage to the Ithaca tradition by loving their work.
Putting the book together, co-authors also identified trends occurring with the market’s expansion. Open all year round
and more days a week than ever before, they noticed an increase in chefs attending the market for inspiration. Although restaurants often receive food deliveries directly, there is more involvement with the market on their end.
Visitors flock to the market for shopping and non-shopping purposes, using it as a community hub. Co-authors described how the social environment at the market exemplifies Ithaca’s town spirit.
“If you had to define Ithaca with one particular place, I think it would be the Ithaca Farmers Market,” Turback stated.
Lecek and Turback recognize the love market participants have for their products through the cookbook. It has become not only a love letter but a thank you to passionate food producers. Reynolds was particularly touched by how recipes referenced bison and honey he has distributed at the market over the years.
“You get choked up when you see your name in print like this, because you know that somebody submitted a recipe that involves your product,” he said. “That’s one of the biggest compliments on Earth to me, I've cried before when I saw my family in a recipe book or a menu. It says that somebody loves us and cares about us.”
Co-Authors Izzy Lecek (Far Left) and Michael Turback (Far Right) stand with State Assembly Member Anna Kelles (Left) and Market President Jan Rhodes Norman (Right) at the Saturday cookbook launch. (Photo: Dennis Hayes)
“The Bikeriders” and the Road to Nowhere
By Matt Minton
The counterculture of the mid to late 1960s has been the subject of interest for many films by prolific directors — and it’s no wonder when looking back why. It’s a time period that can go by several names: New Hollywood, the prevalence of hippie culture, or even the years in which sentiment quickly built up against the Vietnam War.
No matter what you focus on specifically, two categories of people seem to intrigue us: the people who wanted to see change by propelling the world forward, and those who chose to fall with their old ways.
In the case of Jeff Nichols’ (“Mud,” “Take Shelter”) middling new drama “The Bikeriders,” this forever fascinating time period serves as the time and space
enclosing the main ensemble’s dissociation with their own interiority.
With keen inspiration lifted from Danny Lyon’s 1968 photobook of the same name, Nichols takes fictional liberties with this period drama brimming with about as many leather jackets as one would expect. The story follows the marriage between Benny (Austin Butler), a member of the Vandals, and the strong, free-spirited Kathy (Jodie Comer). After a fatal accident nearly puts Benny’s life at risk, Kathy forces Benny to choose between a life with her and a life with his increasingly tense and violent group.
The anchor point that we return to at several points throughout the film is Kathy’s narration while being interviewed by photojournalist Danny (Mike Faist). “The Bikeriders” dips its toes into many areas of interest: the mentor figure on his way out in
Catch the thrilling ride of 'The Bikeriders' in Ithaca. Upcoming showtimes: Friday, June 28 at 7:00 PM, Saturday, June 29 at 4:00 PM & 8:00 PM, and Sunday, June 30 at 1:00 PM & 6:00 PM at Cinemapolis, and Friday, June 28 at 6:00 PM, Saturday, June 29 at 3:00 PM & 7:00 PM, and Sunday, June 30 at 2:00 PM & 5:00 PM at Regal Ithaca Mall. (Photo: IMDB)
Johnny (Tom Hardy) raising Benny to be a new leader, the complicated, often unspoken tribulations in Benny and Kathy’s marriage, and the up-and-coming kid (Toby Wallace) challenging Johnny’s strong rule.
Unfortunately, Nichols’ script never quite gets deep enough into any of the characters — or even the titular group’s purpose — to fully explore what they are running away from in life. The film as a whole is clean and expertly produced, with plenty of period-accurate details and gorgeous, expansive road shots to boast.
Undeniably, it’s quite a well-paced film, one that deliberately takes its time to breathe: as to be expected with an expert indie director like Nichols. But with no real cinematic risks taken, a lack of narrative momentum and no fully fleshed out reason to follow these characters for nearly two hours, it just plays it way too safe.
In a half-baked movie of this size, the only thing more half-baked is many of the frailing Midwestern accents. Thankfully, Comer and Butler are the convincingly subdued duo to watch the film for, while many of the supporting members of this movie-sized cast fall to the sidelines. Mi-
chael Shannon’s brief appearance as Zipco is welcome, although his talent is quite underused. Hardy’s role plays well to his typically stoic nature but quickly becomes one-note, a pattern with many of the nameless smaller roles in the film.
There’s plenty of interesting themes to go around, specifically relating to what Nichols seems to be poisiting about toxic masculinity and the lack of vulnerability ingrained in these men and the roles they play. Again, the movie traps itself by never quite developing or following these ideas through to their natural conclusion. The Johnny and Benny relationship in particular becomes difficult to parse when the push and pull with Benny choosing either Johnny or Kathy could’ve been significantly stronger. Despite an excellent array of actors and a compelling premise, this collection of varying storylines never quite converges, never allowing the characters to be much more than sketched outlines of their exterior lives. With no real propeller into their interior lives to juxtapose who these bikeriders are when they accelerate on the road to nowhere, “The Bikeriders” itself seems to have no destination.
continued from page 3
This agreement comes at a time when the Ithaca City School District (ICSD) is planning to enter negotiations to request
ICSD FACES LEADERSHIP SHIFT
continued from page 5
Luvelle Brown:
District Superintendent Luvelle Brown has been under fire recently for his roughly $260,000 salary, in a contentious budget year where the first proposed budget was among just 3% of public school district’s budgets in the state to be voted down. Just this year, home assessments in the district have risen by an average of 20.1%. Combined with a steep initial proposed hike to ICSD’s tax levy, many have claimed they are going to be priced out of their homes. This multitude of factors has led to rising tension between Brown and the community. Brown’s current contract extends until the end of the 2027-28 school year. If he seeked to renew his contract with the board of education, it would have extend-
LACS50THANNIVERSARY CELEBRATION
continued from page 7
students and learn what was important to them, facilitating students working and teaching each other, honoring the ingenuity, curiosity, and diverse brilliance that students bring. A good education helps each of us develop self-reflective, wellreasoned thinking, with a foundation of truth, justice, and fairness.”
This July 12th-14th LACS alumni and staff will gather at the school to celebrate 50 years of innovation through presentations, a variety show, storytelling, and a
RIDE THE CYCLONE
continued from page 12
straight-A socially active success story with huge entitlement. But her arrogance, however hilarious, eventually transmutes into something we don’t expect. Fine moment: When others wince, she then insists her bragging speech was merely “ironic.”
Self-effacing Constance (Colette Élan Caspari) is her sidekick, resigned to being, as she sings, “The Nicest Girl in Town.” As sad as her life has been, she’s still loyal to Uranium City, this diminished
an increased contribution from Cornell University in lieu of taxes. Earlier this month, ICSD’s board of education discussed forming an advisory committee to negotiate an increase of Cornell’s contribution from the current $650,000 to a new proposed $10 million.
ed until the end of the 2028-29 school year.
In early June, the district made a Facebook comment that shared news that the superintendent was not seeking to extend, or renew, his current five-year contract for another year.
Brown provided the Ithaca Times with a statement regarding the announcement of his decision to not seek a renewal to his contract.
“First, there is no "announcement" about my wishes to not seek a renewal to my contract at this time. I informed the Board of Education that I would not seek or accept a renewal,” Brown wrote. “I am committed to fulfilling my promise to the supporters of inclusion and excellence and to the young people of Ithaca. This means fulfilling the remaining 4 years on my contract.”
When asked what went into his decision to not renew his contract this year, Brown said that his role as a superinten-
multi-generational All School Meeting. Like Sperry, many alumni have integrated their unique LACS school experience into their work as educators. One of the workshops, Seeds of Pedagogy, will highlight stories of alumni who trace their pedagogical roots to the school, including Susannah Siegel who teaches philosophy at Harvard, Sebastian Ruth (a MacArthur Award Winner) who founded Community Music Works in Providence RI, and Elizabeth Susmann who co-founded Open Door English in Ithaca. The weekend festivities will also include presentations by all 4 of LACS’s principals speaking about the schools enduring Principles.
hometown. Ricky (Stephen Blauch) never spoke in life; now death has released his tongue and inhibitions as he shares his strange cyber-fantasy world in “Space Age Bachelor Man.” Mischa (Owen Harrison), adopted from Romania, is furious at his neglectful upbringing, but his sustaining hope is his online romance with a traditional girl back home (he shifts from rage-rap to tender ballad).
Noel (Christian Maxwell Henry) is yet another misfit — gay, intellectual, and professedly nihilistic. When he’s not working at Taco Bell, his fictional escape is French
In addition to the Ithaca City School District, this past fall, Cornell updated its Memorandum of Understanding between the City of Ithaca and Cornell to provide a voluntary contribution of $4 million to the City annually for 15 years, an increase of $2.4 million from their previous MOU. While Cornell continues negotiations with the various facets of Ithaca, this agreement augments support for services and initiatives that inherently benefit both town residents and the Cornell community.
dent and community leader has been taxing, citing that he has received hate and threats in response to claims from a Cornell Law Professor that the Students of Color Summit which took place at Ithaca High School at the end of May was “racially exclusionary” and “intended to exclude whites.”
“My reasoning is clear, and it bears repeating, I am committed to supporting equitable access and opportunities for all of the young people I serve in the Ithaca City School District,” Brown wrote. “This work as a school and community leader is taxing — physically taxing, communally taxing, emotionally taxing, and personally taxing. Just this week I received multiple messages of hate and threats in response to leadership decisions made with the best intentions.”
Brown additionally described the difficulties that Ithaca’s schools, and school
“One of the things that has made LACS work as a school community, is honoring of the needs of each unique child (and staff) with the needs of the larger community. The students have real power to make (or stop) important decisions. The school has built trust that all stakeholders are working together for the benefit of the whole in ways that are fair and inclusive. We have seen that when young people play a central part in decision-making, they are empowered to be thoughtful, to be self-reflective and to care about the impact their actions and words have on others.”
Over the years many students have
New Wave posing, and his idol is Dietrich’s Blue Angel. We see clips of her in a center-stage circular projection (courtesy of Stephen St. Francis Decky); each teen’s imagination is correspondingly illustrated. And more to the point, as each reveals their history, actual childhood photos of the actors appear onscreen in succession, from infancy on up. The effect is compelling — grounding us in real lives beyond the theatrical fiction.
Each teen has already coped with disappointment and rejection and loss; but the high spirits, dynamic staging, and clever
nationwide, are facing in a post-pandemic world, and described what is in the future for the district.
“The next four years will not be easy,” Brown wrote. “On the heels of a global health pandemic, our schools are challenged to fully recover. Along with the academic expectations, there are also societal issues that are requiring public schools to take on more responsibilities for the health and welfare of youth. Additionally, there are economic realities that we must confront. We must find a way to compensate our employees fairly and competitively while also continuously improving our facilities with minimal new revenue from local, state and federal sources. [...] What’s next? This is a reset button on the who, why, and how of education in Ithaca and beyond. I am committed and honored to be on this journey in a place and with people I love.”
related to Chris that being part of LACS enabled them to develop their own ideas, to listen well to others, to communicate their thoughts, to take leadership, and to figure out who they want to be in the world. “When we give kids room to discover who they are, with enough structure and support to make that process safe, public education can fulfill its promise of supporting the development of caring, reflective, and active citizens.”
(mzo: Stay tuned post-LACS celebration for Chris’ update on Project Look Sharp, to help us sort through and make sense of all the media in our lives.)
dialogue all signal their resilience. The hardest tale to reconcile is the saddest: the punked-out headless girl (Madison Hertel), known only as Jane Doe, who can’t remember her name or anything else. But even this ultimate tragedy is redeemable.
Sympathetic acting, great voices, and absolutely catchy songs — we’re ready to believe the teens’ existential recognition, in the final song, that “it’s not a game; it’s just a ride.”
Barbara Adams, a regional theater and arts journalist, teaches writing at Ithaca College.