October 9, 2024

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Ithaca Common Council Reaffirms Support for Equal Rights Amendment, Encourages Federal Action

By Matt Dougherty

The Ithaca Common Council reaffirmed its support for the Equal Rights Amendment (ERA) during a recent meeting in which it passed a resolution encouraging elected officials to support national efforts to formally recognize the ERA as the 28th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution.

Despite being passed by Congress in 1972, the ERA, which guarantees equal rights regardless of sex, remains in limbo, as it has yet to be fully ratified into the Constitution.

The resolution urges Ithaca residents and elected officials across New York and the country to sign a petition pushing for Congressional recognition of the ERA. The council’s resolution specifically calls on members of the United States House of Representatives to support House Discharge Petition No. 6, which would bring House Joint Resolution 25 to the floor for a vote. According to the resolution, only three or four more signatures are needed to trigger a vote in the House.

However, Rep. Marc Molinaro (R-NY), who represents Ithaca in Congress, told the Ithaca Times that he would not sign the petition. In a statement, Molinaro expressed his opposition, saying, “Josh Riley and his DC allies haven’t proved this won’t allow boys in girls’ sports,” referring to ongoing debates about gender identity

in sports and how the ERA might impact the rights of transgender individuals.

In response to questions regarding his stance on the ERA, Josh Riley told the Ithaca Times, “I fought in court to ratify the federal ERA and protect a women’s right to choose nationwide [and] Marc Molinaro voted 13 times to restrict abortion access.” He added, “The differences between us couldn’t be more clear.”

The ERA requires the approval of 38 states to be ratified as an amendment. That threshold was met in January 2020 when Virginia became the 38th state to ratify the ERA. Despite this milestone, legal and procedural obstacles, including disputes over expired deadlines, have delayed its formal adoption. For the amendment to be fully recognized, advocates argue that Congress must pass a joint resolution affirming that the ERA is now part of the U.S. Constitution.

During the council meeting, Alderpersons expressed strong support for the resolution, particularly in light of recent national events threatening women’s rights and reproductive freedoms. Forth Ward Alderperson Tiffany Kumar underscored the urgency of defending gender equality, citing the current political climate as an attack on women’s rights. “We are witnessing an unprecedented rollback of reproductive rights,” Kumar said. “Supporting the ERA sends a powerful message that gender equality is a fundamental right,

and we need to stand up for it.”

The resolution comes at a time when several states have passed restrictive laws on abortion, sparking national debate about the need for stronger constitutional protections for women’s rights. Council members emphasized the importance of Ithaca signaling its stance in favor of gender equality, with the ERA seen as a critical step toward enshrining those protections in law.

“Ithaca has always stood for justice and equality,” said Mayor Robert Cantelmo during the meeting. “It’s unacceptable that more than 50 years after the ERA was passed by Congress, it still hasn’t been fully ratified. This resolution reaffirms our city’s commitment to gender equality.” Cantelmo signed a petition supporting the federal ERA during a press conference held outside City Hall in

Continued on Page 7

X Friends of the Ithaca Farmers Market Launch Capital Campaign for Parking Lot Improvements

Ithaca, NY — The Friends of the Ithaca Farmers Market (IFM) are thrilled to announce the official launch of a Capital Campaign aimed at raising essential funds to improve the parking lot at the Market’s beloved Steamboat Landing location. This project will enhance accessibility, safety, and the overall experience for market-goers, vendors, and visitors alike.

The Friends of IFM was awarded a $3.2 million-dollar NYS Local Waterfront Revitalization Grant to invest in much needed Parking Lot improvements. The grant is a fantastic step forward, but requires IFM to

contribute matching funds. The Friends of IFM seek to raise $750,000.00 to unlock state funds that will result in a better and safer experience for Market visitors.

At a special gathering held last Thursday evening, representatives from the city and state joined IFM customers and vendors in celebrating this major milestone. The evening included a presentation from Whitham Planning Design Landscape Architecture PLLC, who provided an overview of the project scope and timeline.

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.

event sponsors: GreenStar Cooperative Market, Red Feet Wine Market, and Wegmans. We also want to extend our gratitude to the IFM vendors who contributed food and drinks for last night’s event, and to The Pelotonesfor creating a marvelous atmosphere.

To learn more about the Capital Campaign for the Ithaca Farmers Market Parking Lot Project or to make a donation, email: campaign@ifmfriends.org or visit the Friends of the Ithaca Farmers Market website: https:// ifmfriends.org. You can also stay updated on our progress by following us on social media. T ake n ote

A special thanks goes out to our generous

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,

Mayor Robert Cantelmo and Ithaca’s Common Council have passed a resolution to support the Equal Rights Amendment, joining a growing coalition of New York leaders advocating for constitutional protections against gender discrimination. (Photo: Matt Dougherty)

IN UIRING

PHOTOGR PHER Q A

By Mark Syvertson

QUESTION OF THE WEEK: WHAT HAS BEEN THE BIGGEST CHANGE DURING YOUR TIME HERE?

Tompkins County to Defund Sunflower Houses Reentry Program Despite Positive Outcomes

By Matt Dougherty

The Sunflower Houses program, a transitional housing initiative designed to support individuals with high medical needs reentering society after incarceration, faces an uncertain future following the Tompkins County Legislature's decision to significantly reduce its funding in the proposed 2025 budget.

While the program requested $77,400 to continue operating for another year, the county has only allocated $45,000 to be distributed over the next three years — a fraction of what is required to keep the program running.

This funding shortfall has sparked concern among local advocates and service providers, especially since the Sunflower Houses program has achieved substantial success since its launch in 2021. A recent independent research assessment showed that the program has decreased homelessness by 61% and kept a impressively low in-program recidivism rate of just 7%. Despite these results, the Legislature’s proposed budget cuts are set to force the program to either scale back operations or shut down altogether.

Sunflower Houses is a collaboration between Ultimate Reentry Opportunity (URO), Ithaca Neighborhood Housing Services (INHS), and Opportunities, Alternatives, and Resources (OAR). It is the first program of its kind in Tompkins County, and provides low-barrier, affordable housing along with wraparound services that include addiction treatment, mental health case management, medical assistance, transportation, and employment support.

Dr. Paula Ioanide, an Ithaca College Professor and local reentry services advocate, issued a statement warning of the severe impacts that could result from defunding the program.

“Virtually every proposal for funding essential social and housing services requested to Tompkins County Legislature through the Human Services Coalition is not being recommended for inclusion in the 2025 budget,” Ioanide stated. “This will have devastating consequences for our most vulnerable populations, especially for those reentering society after incarceration.”

Ionide told the Ithaca Times, “The request specifically for Sunflower Houses was $77,680, but the Legislature only granted $45,000 over three years. That will not make up the full amount needed to continue running the program.” She added, “Sunflower Houses is facing a funding shortfall, and without securing additional resources, the program may not be able to continue.”

According to Ionide, the total cost to operate Sunflower Houses is approximately $170,000 annually. The program had previously secured some funding from other sources, including an opioid settlement grant and state funding, but even with those sources, there remains a $37,000 gap for the coming year.

In addition to the Sunflower Houses cuts, OAR's core services are also facing reductions. The Legislature has asked for a 5% across-the-board cut to community-based organizations with permanent county funding, which for OAR translates to a $40,561 cut in its core services budget. When combined with the Sunflower Houses reduction, OAR is facing an overall budget cut of $118,241 — a 16% decrease.

The proposed budget also eliminates support for URO’s Beyond the Box initiative, which helps employers create more inclusive hiring practices for individuals in reentry, and the LawNY Reentry Project, which assists people in reentry with legal challenges related to employment. Both programs have been integral in supporting the successful reintegration of formerly incarcerated individuals into the workforce and community.

Without the funds needed to keep Sunflower Houses operational, Ioanide and others in the reentry services community fear that homelessness and recidivism

rates will spike among those who have been served by the program — which has been especially critical for individuals with high medical needs, many of whom face steep barriers to accessing housing and healthcare following incarceration.

“The County is prioritizing short-term budget cuts over long-term community stability,” Ioanide said. “Without these services, we are almost guaranteed to see an increase in homelessness and a higher recidivism rate among those who have already served their time and are trying to reintegrate.”

Although Ioanide acknowledged that fiscal constraints are a reality for local government, she criticized the County’s allocation priorities, pointing out that programs like Sunflower Houses offer long-term benefits that far outweigh their relatively modest costs. “It is much more cost-effective to support reentry housing than to deal with the consequences of homelessness and repeat incarceration. The data clearly shows that these programs work,” she said.

If the program does not secure the additional funding it needs, its ability to provide these comprehensive services will be in jeopardy. “We will have to find another funding source to continue running the program,” loanide said. Potential solutions include negotiating reduced housing rates with INHS, fundraising, or seeking additional grants.

According to Ionide, David Sanders, the executive director of OAR, is working diligently to keep the program afloat, but she warned that without a longer-term funding solution, the program could ultimately close. “If we don’t find a permanent funding structure, we’ll have no choice but to close it, because it’s eating into reserves

Paula Ioanide says that to continue providing vital services and support to formerly incarcerated individuals, Sunflower Houses requires additional funding of approximately $170,000 per year. (Photo: Ithaca College)

The Sunflower Houses Program is a Housing First initiative designed to provide safe, affordable housing and wraparound services for individuals reentering the community after incarceration. (Photo: Provided)

“The high-rise apartments. I think there used to be a height limit but it really changes the feel of downtown.” – Karen, resident since 1988

“All the strip malls, on Meadow Street in particular. And Ithaca used to feel safer, like a small town.” – Linda, resident since 1975

“The biggest change has been The Commons. I remember when you used to be able to drive straight down State Street.” – Lori, resident since 1965

“The development of the West End. I met my husband at the 84 Lumber where Boatyard Grille is now.” – Jane, resident since 1953

“The West End has been the biggest change. Specifically, The Octopus. That changed all the roads into what they are today.” – Ron, resident since 1951

The Talk at

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

RE: 2024 Election

“In the over forty years I have voted in Tompkins County, I never have encountered such unacceptable candidates like the Republican slate that appears on my sample ballot. Trump and Vance have lied about the last election, lied about our flourishing economy and even lied about the eating habits of legal immigrants in Ohio. With no accomplishments to show in his pathetically weak first term in Congress, Marc Molinaro is trying to terrify us into voting for him. He posts baseless ads about rising crime, immigrants, drugs and the economy. Mike Sigler also fuels his candidacy for state senate with hysterical posts about immigrants and crime. The opposite is true. Crime is down. Drug use and drug deaths are down. The economy is flourishing. No one is stealing pets to barbecue. Like you and me, emigrants shop for food at the supermarket. We have no need to hide under our beds.

The Democratic slate on the other hand offers terrific candidates with his-

tories of excellence, integrity and public service. They share a common respect for women to make their own decision, a commitment to fiscal sanity and and a firm belief indemocracy, I will be voting for Harris for president, Walz for vicepresident, Josh Riley for Congress, Lea Webb for State Senate, Anna Kelles for Assembly, Maura Kennedy-Smith for County Judge and Rick Wallace for City of Ithaca Judge.” — Nick Salvatore

“On reproductive health, voters in NY19 have a dilemma this November. Rep

Marc Molinaro has said that a woman’s decision is between herself and her doctor.

That’s reassuring: but his votes in Congress don’t support his words. He has voted against access to abortions for troops and funding for crisis pregnancy centers, for example, and in favor of penalties for doctors performing abortions.

Then again, Rep. Molinaro says he’s “personally pro-life,” and he hosted Rep. Kat Cammack (R-Fla.), the co-chair of the House Pro-Life Caucus, in his district.

So which Molinaro should voters trust?

The one most reassuring to women concerned for their right to choose—or the down-the-line MAGA-voting “personally pro-life” candidate?

Luckily, which-way Molinaro isn’t the only candidate on the ballot this November.. Josh Riley has made crystal clear his determination to protect reproductive

health and rights, including a woman’s right to choose.

That should be a great relief to voters who care about protecting reproductive rights, not only in NY-19 but nationwide.”

— Alex Marshall

“The issue in this year’s election for New Yorkers in the state’s 19th congressional district is simple and can be boiled down to a single question. Do you trust Marc Molinaro to stand between the Republican party and your right to choose?

My mom was a lifelong Republican prior to Donald Trump’s presidency. She was also opposed to abortion… for herself. But she also would never have imposed that belief on another woman’s right to choose. My mom was able to make the distinction that her own beliefs and values might not be shared by others. And she accepted and respected the reality that America is a broad coalition of different ideas. She was part of a Republican party that once balanced fiscal conservatism with broader-minded social policies attuned to greater public sentiment.

The fact is, while a woman can exercise her rights to make pro-life decisions in a pro-choice world, a woman cannot exercise her rights to make the sometimesdifficult pro-choice decisions in a pro-life world. Such limitations are undemocratic. Your right to choose is what’s at stake this year. Voting for Josh Riley is a vote in favor of the right to choose. It’s the only honest option in a democratic republic form of government.” — Fredric Villano

RE: Plastic Utensils Harm The Environment

“We are all well aware of the need to limit waste and save the environment from discarded plastic, yet at most restaurants, plastic utensils and condiment packages are automatically included with takeout orders. This is unnecessary as much of the takeout goes straight home where there are reusable utensils and bulk condiments. Simply requiring that the customer request them if needed would help the environment (and restaurant costs) enormously.

We ignore this simple solution at our peril. Currently, 561 billion disposable food service items given out every year in the U.S. result in 4.9 million tons of waste that will be either burned, buried, or littered. Bioplastics—so-called compostable plastics—behave the same as their fossil fuel counterparts, risking the health of humans and wildlife as they degrade into smaller and smaller microplastics and enter our bodies.

“By-request-only” laws have already passed in two states and 33 cities across the

country (including New York City’s “Skip the Stuff” law). Despite our efforts for nearly two years to introduce legislation to require this change, the County Legislature has been slow to act. We urge the community to join us in advocating for this simple yet impactful change. To get involved, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us, and please contact your representatives to support this initiative.“ — Zero Waste Ithaca

RE: Why Is There No Reporting On Hurricane Helene

“Hurricane Helene was the deadliest storm since Katrina with a death toll of 106 and still climbing. It dumped over 3 feet of rain in places down South that were already ground saturated! Someone gave me the statistics of how much rain that actually was (how many football stadiums that would fill, etc.) and it blew my mind! But there is absolutely NO news coverage of what’s going on down there and it's devastating! I had to really search to find out that they desperately need helicopters to help people who are trapped in the hills and dying! Yes, it’s true! And there are so many others who are on the ground that still need help. Please do some research and make people aware of what’s going on so that they can donate to the American Red Cross or wherever they feel is necessary to help these poor people. Something must be done!” — Susie Pedersen

RE: BBQ Takeout Meals @ First Congregational Church of Ithaca (FCCI)

“On Saturday, October 19, BBQ Takeout Meals are being offered by First Congregational Church of Ithaca (FCCI) members for pickup at the church, 309 Highland Road. Interested persons need to order before Tuesday, October 15 and be available for pick up 5:00-6:00 pm on the 19th.

Meals include a Pulled Pork BBQ or vegan Jackfruit BBQ sandwich, with sides of vinegar-based coleslaw, and salt potatoes. The price is $15.00 per meal. All proceeds will benefit the “amazing, inclusive, radically-welcoming” activities happening at the FCCI, according to organizer Bill Heffner.

Online pre-orders and payments can be made at this link: https://tinyurl. com/2024-FCCI-BBQ-Take-Out. Checks and cash can also be used for payment.

For those who live at Kendal or Longview, delivery is being offered. See order form for details.

Questions? Visit fccithaca.org or contact Bill Heffner cwheffner@gmail.com” — Mary Maxon Grainger

UPS DOWNS&

Ups

The Tompkins County Legislature has announced the hiring of Korsah Akumfi as the new County Administrator, with his term set to begin on December 9.

Downs

Historic buildings on the Wells College campus in Aurora, NY, are under imminent threat, according to the Wells Legacy Society. The group learned last month that the leadership of the college, which announced the school’s closure on April 29, plans to shut off the water and leave the buildings unheated for the entire winter.

HEARD SEEN&

Heard

The fall meeting of the Collegetown Neighborhood Council will be held on October 15 from 4-5 p.m. at St. Luke Church in Collegetown, located at 109 Oak Ave. The meeting will include updates from the Collegetown Small Business Alliance, the City of Ithaca, Cornell Students, Cornell Student and Campus Life and Off campus housing and Cornell police. There will also be an update on Maplewood 2, the redesign of the 400 block of College Avenue, and Oak Avenue paving.

Seen

The City of Ithaca’s Department of Public Works (DPW) announced that sidewalk and curb ramp improvements will take place along Dryden Road and Elmwood Avenue from Tuesday Oct. 1 to Wednesday Oct. 16 as part of the ongoing Sidewalk Improvement District initiative.

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

QUESTION OF THE WEEK

Should Cornell University Reverse Its Decision To Suspend & Deport International Student Momodou Taal for perticipating in a Pro-Palestinian Protest?

66 1 % Yes .

32.7% No.

1.2 % I don’t care.

N ext W eek ’s Q uestio N : Are you registered to vote?

Visit ithaca.com to submit your response.

Historic District Expansion Presents Roadblock to Increasing Ithaca’s Housing Supply

By Matt Dougherty

The Ithaca Common Council recently voted to accept a $17,000 state grant to fund a survey reevaluating the DeWitt Park Historic District boundary.

The decision was made after some Council members raised concerns about how expanding historic districts could impact the city's efforts to increase density and decrease housing costs.

The vote passed 6-2 and will allow Ithaca’s Historic Preservation Planner Bryan McCracken and his team to conduct the survey to assess whether changes to the historic district boundaries are necessary. However, Fourth Ward Alderperson Patrick Kuehl and Second Ward Alderperson Ducson Nguyen expressed concerns about the project’s potential impact on housing supply.

“I don’t think this serves our goals as a council,” said Kuehl, who argued that expanding the historic district could stand at odds with Ithaca’s efforts to increase housing density to lower rental costs. He pointed to the expansive East Hill Historic District, which covers roughly 20 blocks, as an example of where historic preservation rules have made it difficult to build new housing units in areas of high demand.

landmarks as historically significant rather than designating an entire neighborhood for preservation. Advocates of spot preservation say this allows for targeted protection of significant landmarks without undermining future development.

Ithaca’s Historic Preservation Planner Bryan McCracken responded to Kuehl’s concerns by emphasizing that historic preservation is not necessarily at odds with increasing housing density. He pointed out that some of the city's most densely populated areas, including those within historic districts, have seen new construction in recent years.

“There have been new construction projects in historic districts consistently over the last ten years,” McCracken said. “The districts tend to be some of the most dense in the city, not just in Ithaca but in other cities as well.”

“The expansive East Hill Historic District, which covers roughly 20 blocks, as an example of where historic preservation rules have made it difficult to build new housing units in areas of high demand.”

— Patrick Kuehl, Fourth Ward Alderperson

According to a study by PlaceEconomics, “Historic neighborhoods are denser for three primary reasons: lot sizes are often smaller, house sizes are smaller, and there is often a greater variety of housing types.” The study showed that while the City of Baltimore’s local historic districts cover only 3% of the city’s land area, they are twice as dense as non-designated residential areas.

for the survey and not to decide on any boundary changes at this time.

“I am viewing this particular resolution very instrumentally, asking whether or not we want to accept $17,000 to do work that at present is the established city policy,” Cantelmo said. He acknowledged the concerns raised by Kuehl and others but emphasized that the funding would allow the city to move forward with gathering the necessary information.

Kuehl, however, remained concerned about the potential long-term impact of expanding the historic district. He moved to table the vote until the Council’s next meeting to allow more time to discuss the issue, particularly the impact on housing availability. Nguyen supported Kuehl’s motion to table, citing similar concerns about how expanding the district might impact property owners and housing costs.

Ultimately, the motion to table the vote failed 2-6, with only Kuehl and Nguyen voting in favor. The majority of the Council and the Mayor opted to proceed with the grant's acceptance, viewing it as the first step in evaluating the boundaries before making any final decisions on expansion.

Second Ward Alderperson Ducson Nguyen agreed with Kuehl, saying, “The expansion of the East Hill Historic District is one that I’ve come to regret.” Nguyen added that while he supports historic preservation, the process often “inhibits” development and can be “onerous and expensive” for property owners.

Kuehl suggested that the city should reconsider its approach to historic preservation as a whole. “I fundamentally disagree with this approach…I’m much more in favor of spot preservation, even if it impacts the same number of units.”

Spot preservation refers to the practice of designating individual buildings or

McCracken also explained that listing a property on the National Register of Historic Places can open up opportunities for both state and federal tax credits, which could be used to rehabilitate properties for residential use.

“One of the reasons behind this project is to resolve situations where property owners aren’t able to take advantage of tax credits,” McCracken said. He noted that the survey is designed to gather data and that the Council would ultimately decide any proposed changes to the district boundaries.

Ithaca Mayor Robert Cantelmo said that he understood the concerns regarding housing supply but stressed that the vote was solely to accept the grant funding

Looking ahead, Cantelmo noted that the Council would continue discussions on the broader issue of historic preservation and its relationship to Ithaca’s housing goals, particularly in light of the city’s pressing need for more affordable housing.

“Several of my colleagues have made compelling points about our housing supply and housing crisis,” Cantelmo said. “It would be valuable to discuss our historic preservation goals and how they interact with our broader municipal objectives.”

According to McCraken, “The timeline for the project is roughly two and a half years…and depending on the survey results, a nomination to expand the historic district may or may not come forward.”

Ultimately, any changes to the boundary of a historic district will require final approval by the Council.

Ithaca’s plans to fund a re-evaluation of the DeWitt Park Historic District through new grant funding has sparked debate as preservation measures could potentially limit the city’s ability to meet ambitious housing supply goals. (Photo: File)

“The Little Town and Big University that Forgot Science”

By Mothers Out Front Tompkins

The place was so beautiful that people flocked to see it. At the foot of the lovely lake, surrounded by wooded hills and waterfalls, it was an environmental jewel.

A university and college town, it had a reputation for being progressive. But it had a dark secret known only to a few. The secret was an unspoken power relationship between the city and the university: the city acquiesced to the university’s projects. By state law, the city had a responsibility to protect the environment and they held a power lever: the environmental review. Their inability to use it was their failure. So, the city shirked their responsibility to protect their residents from projects that posed environmental risks or even hazards.

To be fair, having succumbed to Cornell’s heavy-handed “sweetheart deal” on the university’s payment in lieu of taxes, the city was understaffed. Also, Cornell was big and influential and boasted armies of lawyers. The University was litigious and the city knew it. Planning Board members were known to furtively ask questions like, “Can Cornell take legal action against us if we do X?”

In a reversal of their obligations, the City Planning Board repeatedly ignored substantive concerns raised by scientists, experts, professors, former Board members, and residents. They dismissed critiques of the misleading testimony and pro-industry lobbying masquerading as “science” that informed their decision. In their environmental decision, they failed to consider evidence for health and environmental risks. Unlike other municipalities, who seriously considered the public comments offered by their communities, environmental groups, and independent scientists, the Ithaca City Board declined to consider scientific studies presented to them by citizens and appeared instead to make their decisions based on unsubstantiated promises and claims made by Cornell. Sadly, the city became so subordinate to the university that they dealt with residents’ expression of concern as a problem to be managed. One brand-new Board member condoned Cornell’s fake plastic grass and advised Cornell to “think about how you message this to the community,” noting that “repetition is key” in public communication. In her opinion, the accumulated decades of scientific expertise held by PhDs, faculty

members, and scientists who expressed concern about artificial turf based on the peer-reviewed literature were not substantive problems, but a public relations problem.

These misdeeds began in small rooms with few observers. But their impacts would be felt far and wide.

Here is a case in point: Cornell wanted to install artificial turf on a playing field and the Planning Board acquiesced. But, in fact, each new artificial turf field that Cornell installs will:

• Contribute to poisoning environmental justice communities who live near fossil fuel extraction and manufacturing facilities.

• Shed at least 20 tons of toxic waste into the environment during its brief 8-12 year “usable” life, including many microplastics and toxins that won’t be captured by Cornell’s drainage system.

• Pollute the environment indefinitely when tossed into a landfill or incinerated through so-called “advanced chemical recycling” (translation: burning).

• Put millions of dollars into the hands of fossil fuel executives — some of whom, like the Meinig family, sit on Cornell’s Board of Trustees and are the chief donors for the Meinig Fieldhouse Project.

• Widen the gap between Cornell’s climate action and rhetoric, including cherry-picked carbon-pollution accounting practices that claim emissions reductions from reduced mowing of campus grass but don’t report increased emissions from fake plastic grass.

• Contribute to the accelerating climate disaster by legitimizing and expanding the market for fake plastic grass and the culture of denial that supports doubling-down on fossil-fuel use.

Why was Cornell seeking a pass on an environmental review of this project? They should have heeded their own research scientists and become environmental leaders for the area.

And so, while the climate crisis worsened all around them and the news of floods, fires, excessive heat and smoke-filled skies and undrinkable water increased, this little town and the big university kept to their customary ways. Cornell kept an eye on donors. City officials, staff, and board members crossed their fingers and kept their secret. That is, until the climate crisis found them all and the “hand writing on the wall” finally hit home.

Lea Webb’s Medicaid Shell Game

By Mike Sigler

$1.6 million from Tompkins County. $2 million from Cortland County.

And $5 million from Broome County. That’s what Lea Webb and her Albany cronies took from the 52nd Senate District when they pocketed Federal Medicaid Assistance Program (FMAP) funds, designed to “offset” Medicaid costs at the county level. Our local counties were then left with huge holes in our budgets while Albany politicians got to say they were helping us. It’s a shell game, and regular people like us are the ones getting duped.

It's important to remember this while we watch Lea Webb go town to town handing out giant checks, taking credit like the cash is coming from her personal bank account when it’s quite literally coming out of your bank account because it’s your tax dollars.

Think of it this way: Imagine that your boss cut your pay from $1000 a week to $500 a week. Over the course of a year, that would add up to a $26,000 cut. Devastating. Now imagine that the same boss spent that whole year giving you a $5 bill here and there, maybe a $10 once in a while, and even a $50 on Christmas. But even though you still ended up, say, $20,000 in the hole compared to your old wages, your boss would appear on the

EQUAL RIGHTS AMENDMENT

continued from page 3

September, joining the national campaign urging lawmakers to act.

The discussion also clarified the distinction between the federal ERA and the New York State ERA, which will be part of Proposition One on the New York State ballot this November. The state ERA seeks to expand protections within New York's Constitution, adding prohibitions on discrimination based on race, ethnicity, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity, and other categories. This is a separate but complementary effort to the federal ERA, aimed at strengthening equality protections at the state level.

The federal ERA focuses on ensuring

local news taking credit for handing you that “bonus” $5, $10 or $50 every time. For our Senate District, Webb and her cronies are taking nearly $9 million from us with one hand, and then with the other hand, they’re giving back a few hundred thousand here, and a few hundred thousand there. We’re getting less than we were getting beforehand, and they want us to thank them for it!

Those pennies amount to a small fraction of our counties need in order to properly manage important responsibilities like mental health, opioid addiction, homelessness, public health, sheriff’s deputies and the jail, the district attorney, probation, social services, and countless other local services that so many of us rely upon.

It’s time to end the shell game and get back to mainstream ideas and plans. I’ve knocked on thousands of doors, been to hundreds of events, and met the voters where they live. They’re struggling with costs. Rent, health and car insurance, utilities and more; all areas where Lea Webb’s positions lead to higher costs. It’s time for something different.

Mike Sigler is a 14 year member of the Tompkins County Legislature and is running as a Republican for New York’s 52nd State Senate District against.

that no one can be denied equal rights under the law on the basis of sex, but it does not include the broader anti-discrimination provisions that New York’s state-level proposal would provide.

While Congress debates whether to formally recognize the federal ERA, local governments like Ithaca are continuing to pressure lawmakers. The city’s resolution reflects its alignment with a larger movement advocating for equal rights and protections, both at the federal and state levels.

Despite over five decades of efforts, the ERA remains unratified. But with growing public support and new attention on gender equality, advocates hope that this renewed push, backed by cities like Ithaca, will finally bring the amendment into the U.S. Constitution.

Ithaca Shifts Focus to Underserved Areas in Seventh Attempt at $10 Million Grant

By Maddy Vogel

As the due date quickly approaches for New York State’s Downtown Revitalization Initiative (DRI) grant application, officials in the city of Ithaca are pulling together the list of potential projects they’re looking to include to demonstrate the community need for the funding.

The DRI grant was started by former Governor Andrew Cuomo in 2016 as a way to rejuvenate downtown areas and neighborhoods by awarding a $10 million grant to one applicant each of the 10 designated regions in New York State.

Ithaca has applied, and has failed to be a finalist for the funding, six times in the past eight years. This year will mark the seventh time that Ithaca has applied.

The Downtown Ithaca Alliance (DIA) has prepared the DRI application on behalf of the city in certain years. Last year, due to staffing changes within the city and the DIA, Ithaca did not apply for the grant.

This year however, the city took the lead on the application, spending $40,000 to hire MRB Group as a grant writing consultant, whose main purpose was assembling the hefty submission. Although some council members opposed the proposal, the prospect of increasing their chance to win $10 million to invest into long-term downtown projects outweighed the concerns over short-term consultant costs.

But the consultant wasn’t the only thing that the city used to boost their application—they also used the recently completed downtown neighborhood plan, in which the planning department outlined recommendations for future developments for downtown through a slew of studies and public outreach.

The last time that Ithaca applied for the grant, in 2022, then-executive director of the DIA Gary Ferguson said that application-viewers had “expressed the opinion that Ithaca did not need DRI assistance”

A map depicting Ithaca’s Downtown Neighborhood Plan streatching from Cayuga Street to Taughannock Boulevard. This area is a primary focus of Ithaca’s application for the $10 million Downtown Revitalization Initiative (DRI) Grant. (Photo: City of Ithaca/Provided)

The vacant commercial buildings at 900, 910, and 912 W. MLK Jr./State Street in Ithaca, NY, are set to be transformed into the Ithaca Flatiron Building project, which aims to provide 24 affordable rental apartments and ground-floor parking. (Photo: Mark Syvertson)

because the city has the “continued support of Cornell University and construction cranes were a regular sight in [the] city.” He added that application viewers “recommended that the funding be directed towards areas that lack the advantages of Ithaca.”

This year, Ithaca Mayor Robert Cantelmo said that the application’s focus will be on the West End and West State Street Corridor, which is reflected in the recommendations from the planning department’s downtown plan. He said that further investment in the downtown core, which is “relatively well-established,” may not demonstrate the same level of community need as projects in the West End and West State Street Corridor would.

“We, historically, have submitted many DRI applications focused on the Commons and Downtown Core,” Cantelmo told The Ithaca Times. “[This year] we looked at an area that had a lot of potential and a lot of traffic, but also could use revitalization dollars in a way that I think demonstrates significant impact and leverage from state funding.”

The 2022 application was largely focused on connecting the West End to the Down-

town Core, which is essentially the Commons and surrounding streets. In 2019, the city had lofty goals of extending the Commons by an entire block, which would have transformed iconic parts of West State St. into pedestrian-only walkways. The downtown conference center— which was recently completed without DRI funding— has repeatedly been a project contender in Ithaca’s unsuccessful DRI applications.

“If you’re going to solicit a state program for revitalization dollars, the dollars should really be targeted to an area that has enormous potential and need for revitalization,” Cantelmo said. “My own personal judgment is that while of course, we can always use more resources everywhere, maybe focusing the previous applications on the Commons was a less optimal strategy if we’re trying to demonstrate real need for that investment.

Several of Ithaca’s neighbors have been recipients of the DRI grant in the past, including the city of Elmira in 2017, the village of Watkins Glen in 2018, the city of Auburn in 2018, the village of Johnson City in 2022 and most recently a joint application

As part of their DRI application, the City of Ithaca is requesting $2 Million to contribute to the development of “The Citizen” located on a currently vacant lot at 602 West Buffalo Street in Ithaca’s West End. The project is expected to be a mixed-use development that includes 59 units of affordable housing and two retail spaces. It’s total cost is estimated at approximately $32 Million. (Photo: City of Ithaca/Provided)

between the villages of Aurora, Cayuga and Union Springs.

Although the application has not been submitted or made available to the public yet, the city has released a tentative list of projects that may be included in the application, including the following:

• Improving the State Theatre with the installation of air conditioning and 10 rows of flexible seating.

Estimated total project cost: $1,650,000 DRI funding request: $1,000,000

• Construction of 53 affordable senior housing units above a first floor Early Head Start facility. Sponsored by Ithaca Neighborhood Housing Services (INHS), this project would address a significant lack of affordable senior housing in Ithaca and serve many seniors living on fixed incomes. It would increase access to affordable childcare in the city.

Estimated total project cost: $25,601,541 DRI funding request: $500,000

• Build a New Hotel at S� Cayuga/Clinton Streets, introducing 128 transient lodging rooms and establishing the first extended stay hotel in Ithaca.

Estimated total project cost: $28,000,000 DRI funding request: $2,000,000

• Establishing ground-level retail and upper-level residential units in the Wests State Street Corridor, including a Finger Lakes Wine Collective and Ithaca Climbing Collective as proposed retail spaces. The project would enhance the connectedness between the corridor and the Commons and bring 12 to 18 market-rate housing units to the corridor.

Estimated total project cost: $3,840,000 commercial, $5,300,000 residential

DRI funding request: $1,920,000 commercial, $2,000,000 residential

• Establish a mixed-use West End by establishing 5+ story towers, each with 40 apartments or condos and a recreation area between buildings.

Estimated total project cost: $21,000,000

DRI funding request: $2,000,000

• Reconnect Community Lift Project, providing resources and services to those who pursue economic opportunity that contributes to the local economy. Includes a mixed-use development that incorporates 10-15 housing units, childcare, retail and office space.

Estimated total project cost: $1,784,000

DRI funding request: $900,000

• Improve the physical appearance and use of Diane’s Downtown Automotive at 435 W. State/MLK Jr. St., to enhance pedestrian safety and provide additional offhours and weekend parking for customers of businesses in the area.

Estimated total project cost: $1,500,000 –$1,700,000

DRI funding request: $250,000

• Expand the “Heart of the Community” building at 530 W. State St. by adding a second story.

Estimated total project cost: $4,000,000

DRI funding request: $2,000,000

• Develop affordable housing and retail space at a currently vacant lot on 602 West Buffalo St., sponsored by Visum Development Group. This project would establish 59 affordable rental units and two commercial spaces.

Estimated total project cost: $32,248,892

DRI funding request: $2,000,000

• “Future Endeavor,” would establish a 1,330 square foot home at 626 W Buffalo St., sponsored by Opportunities, Alternatives, and Resources (OAR) Tompkins County,

a group that assists Tompkins County area individuals who are or have been incarcerated.

Estimated total project cost: $200,000

DRI funding request: $150,000

• Shared Kitchen Ithaca would create a space for food business startups and organizations involved with increasing community food access in the West End, specifically at 700 W Buffalo St.

Estimated total project cost: $450,000

DRI funding request: $200,000

• Establish a mixed-use development on the West End waterfront, bringing 5,000 square feet of commercial restaurant space to the waterfront and a number of housing units, which has not been determined yet.

Estimated total project cost: $15,000,000

DRI funding request: $2,000,000

• Renovation of Hammerstone School’s Downtown Ithaca Workshop, providing an office and teaching space for the women-focused trade school.

Estimated total project cost: $666,600

DRI funding request: $500,000

• Build a new construction of the Flatiron Building at 900-12 West State St., establishing 24 housing units at various income levels.

Estimated total project cost: $11,121,507

DRI funding request: $2,000,000

• Promote alternative, sustainable and active transportation by incorporating physical Ithaca Bikeshare parking into West State Street.

Estimated total project cost: $319,000

DRI funding request: $289,000

• Install wayfinding and pedestrian signage in Ithaca and Tompkins County to support the ease of navigation for visitors

and the student population. Estimated total project cost: $1,500,000 –$1,700,000

DRI funding request: $250,000

Ithaca has applied for the DRI seven times over the last eight years but has never been chosen to receive the $10 million grant. City officals hope the outcome of this year’s selection is different.

(Photo: Maddy Vogel)

BusinessTimes

Ithaca Restaurants Business Briefs

Ithaca Restaurants to Keep an Eye on

By Kai Lincke

Ithaca’s summer restaurant reshuffle has continued as the leaves turn and temperatures drop. Several restaurants have moved or opened new locations in recent months. From The Rook’s crosstown move to Asempe Kitchen’s new brick and mortar space, there are many options for diners to experience new spaces and new menu offerings.

Asempe Kitchen

Chef Kuukua Yomekpe brought Asempe Kitchen’s gluten free plant-based Ghanaian dishes to a brick and mortar location in Press Bay Alley in August after more than 10 years in the restaurant business and three years of serving food at the Ithaca and Trumansburg Farmers Markets and popups and festivals in the Ithaca area.

Yomekpe said that as she was looking for a kitchen space to hold Asempe’s cooking classes and demonstrations, the Press Bay Alley owner offered her a space in the development. She did not originally intend to open a restaurant but was excited by the opportunity to hold all of Asempe’s offerings in one downtown location.

“There’s definitely more visibility in having a place to go for people once they know about us,” Yomekpe said. “People were coming to the [Ithaca Farmers] market going, ‘so where's your brick and mortar?’ And I was like, ‘we don't have one yet.’ … It’s really exciting to have a space that we can hold classes, we can bring people together in.”

Yomekpe has kept the menu the same, but she plans to add new offerings for Sunday

Afrobeats brunch, which starts Oct. 13. She hopes to hire more staff members to open for lunch service in the coming months.

Asempe Kitchen is proudly Black owned and queer owned, Yomekpe said, and she is excited to offer a welcoming physical space for the community to gather.

“We’re an open and affirming safe space to be yourself and to completely bring all of yourself,” Yomekpe said.

Asempe is open for dinner services from 5 to 9 p.m. Thursday through Saturday.

The Rook

Upscale soul food restaurant The Rook is moving to Library Place, the new luxury senior living apartment building at the corner of Cayuga and West Court streets.

Gentry Morris, The Rook’s owner and executive chef, said the restaurant is ready to graduate to a new space after eight years at its original West State street location. The location’s limited foot traffic was challenging, he said, and he hopes that the move to Library Place will help draw in new diners.

“I think that [Library Place is] close enough to Fall Creek to still be a neighborhood restaurant,” Morris said. “There’s a lot of festivals that go through there. … I’m excited for that building to fill up and have some actually in-house clientele.”

Morris said that The Rook will not serve its signature craft cocktails immediately after opening. The restaurant’s proximity to churches means that it can only obtain a liquor license for beer and wine according to New York State law. Morris said Governor Kathy Hochul signed an exemption which he hopes will allow

The Rook to obtain a full liquor license in 2025.

Morris said he hopes to open The Rook’s new location around early to mid October. He plans to change the hours from 5 to 9:30 p.m. to 4 to 9 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday in the new location.

Mama Lieu

The Nguyen family plans to open a new Vietnamese restaurant, Mama Lieu, in the Rook’s former restaurant space. The restaurant’s name honors their grandmother, who moved to Ithaca in 1985 after escaping from Vietnam. Mama Lieu worked her way up from a street food seller to the owner of Vietnamese Thanh, the former restaurant on West State Street.

The Nguyen family said in a statement to The Ithaca Times that they hope to honor Mama Lieu’s love for her family and dedication to fresh, healthy food and vibrant flavors.

“Passing down her spirit of love and dedication, we are her children and her grandchildren who are delighted to serve and provide more of our traditional Vietnamese food to our wonderful small town community,” the family said.

Mama Lieu’s menu will include phở, Vietnamese pancakes and Vietnamese sandwiches. The Nguyen family plans to open the restaurant in late October.

Coltivare

Coltivare, a downtown teaching restaurant part of Tompkins Cortland Community College’s Culinary Arts Center, reopened for happy hours and dinners

after a private celebration Sept. 25. Peter Voorhees, TC3’s Public Information Officer, said the restaurant closed for public dinners in May 2023 due to a lack of staff. As the restaurant reopens, it has a new chef, new staff members and a new menu — but Voorhees said diners can still expect to enjoy New American style food highlighting the flavor of the Finger Lakes.

“The menu at Coltivare has been updated, but the farm-to-table philosophy has not changed,” Vorhees said. “We are still focused on highlighting locally sourced food and drink, including using produce from our own TC3 Farm.”

Coltivare is open to the public from 5 to 9 p.m. Wednesdays through Saturdays.

Thompson and Bleecker/Fresh Marché

Thompson and Bleecker found a new home in the old Barr Building on East

Chef Kuukua Yomekpe brought Asempe Kitchen’s gluten free plant-based Ghanaian dishes to a brick and mortar location in Press Bay Alley in August.

Business Briefs

Tompkins Community Bank Welcomes Taryn Schwartz as Residential Mortgage Originator

ITHACA, NY — An expansion of its residential lending team, Tompkins Community Bank(Tompkins) has welcomed Taryn Schwartz, residential mortgage originator. Schwartz will work with buyers across the Central New York region to achieve their ultimate goal of being homeowners.

“We are very excited to welcome Taryn to the team,” said Stacy Merrill, senior vice president, residential mortgage lending manager. “Her experience, passion for what she does, and dedication to her work make her the perfect fit for Tompkins, and for our customers.”

Bringing over 18 years of financial and banking industry experience to her new role, Schwartz worked as a mortgage loan originator at Community Bank NA and Elmira Savings Bank, and held other banking roles with Coastal Community Bank and Frontier Bank.

A graduate of Shoreline Community College and Xinnix Mortgage Ground School, Schwartz currently serves on various committees with the Ithaca Board of Realtors and volunteers with organizations such as Habitat for Humanity and Ithaca Neighborhood Housing Services (INHS). She resides in Ithaca, New York with her husband, and their twin six-year-old boys.

Cayuga Health Announces Affiliation

with Cancer Resource Center of the Finger Lakes

Ithaca, NY — Officials from Cayuga Health (CHS) and Cancer Resource Center of the Finger Lakes (CRC) announce their affiliation, effective July 1, 2024.

“The Cayuga Cancer Center has worked closely with CRC for decades. The Cayuga Health team is very pleased to announce this enhancement of our relationship,” states Dr. Martin Stallone, CEO for Cayuga Health. “The affiliation ensures that the critical support services CRC has provided to cancer patients in our community will continue for decades into the future. With

additional resources of the health system, CHS expects to enhance and grow the support services CRC provides to those in our community.”

CRC was founded as the Ithaca Breast Cancer Alliance in 1994. In the last 20 years, CRC’s mission has evolved to create and sustain an inclusive community of support for people living with and affected by various kinds of cancer. The CRC Board of Directors has made the decision to affiliate to ensure the financial sustainability of the important services the organization brings to those facing cancer in our region.

“The Cancer Resource Center team provides one-on-one personalized support and facilitates support groups to make sure that no one in our area faces cancer alone,” stated Jerry Dietz, President, CRC Board of Directors. “The affiliation with Cayuga Health will introduce efficiencies, allowing more of the money raised for CRC to directly support the care of patients and continue our mission-based work.”

Donations previously received by CRC and those raised in the future will directly benefit the CRC programming. The CRC signature Fundraising Walkathon and 5K will be held again this year on October 5, 2024.

Chemung Canal Announces Upcoming Consolidation of the Ithaca Station Office

ITHACA, NY — Chemung Canal Trust Company (CCTC) today announced that it will be consolidating its office located at 806 West Buffalo Street into its Elmira Road Office at 304 Elmira Road. CCTC reported that employment will not be affected, and all staff will transfer to its other nearby locations.

In addition to the Elmira Road Office, the bank also operates a full-service office in Community Corners on Hanshaw Road. Additionally, customers may continue utilizing the Bank’s many digital banking channels to access their accounts 24/7, including Mobile Banking, Web Banking, ATMs and Telephone Banking.

The Ithaca Station Office will officially consolidate on November 15, 2024. Customers of the office will receive direct communications from the bank regarding details of the transition.

“This decision, which was not made lightly, is part of our strategy to adapt to the evolving needs of our customers while remaining deeply committed to Ithaca and Tompkins County,” said Anders M. Tomson, President and CEO. “We understand the significant role this office has played in the community’s history and its sentimental value to our customers and the community,” Tomson added. “As custodians of this historically important landmark, we look forward to transferring the property to a new use, which will contribute to the history and vibrancy of this great community.”

Chemung Canal Trust Company, headquartered in Elmira, NY, is a full-service community bank with full trust powers. Established in 1833, Chemung Canal Trust Company is the oldest locally owned and managed community bank in New York State.

Eric Taylor Named President of Tompkins Financial Advisors

ITHACA, NY (August 1, 2024) — Tompkins Financial Corp. (Tompkins) announced that Eric Taylor has joined the company as Executive Vice President and President of Tompkins Financial Advisors. Taylor has spent his career in wealth management and brings extensive experience in investment and advisory services. His background includes strategic oversight and management of client-facing investment advisors, portfolio managers and financial planners. In addition, he brings in-depth knowledge of investment planning and portfolio implementation, as well as investment oversight and compliance.

In his new role, Taylor will lead Tompkins Financial Advisors, a holistic financial services firm with over 130 years of experience, bringing customized wealth management, financial planning and trust solutions to individuals and businesses. He will report to Steve Romaine, president and CEO of Tompkins Financial. Romaine commented, “It is my pleasure to welcome Eric to the Tompkins team. In addition

to his experience in the wealth arena, he brings a vision consistent with the Tompkins model of always placing the client at the center of everything we do. Most importantly, we share a common set of values and culture. Eric started his early career with us as a trust officer and I have enjoyed watching his growth and progression over the years. I’m pleased to welcome him back in this senior role, and as a member of my senior leadership team, contributing to strategic issues across the company.”

A long-time resident of Ithaca, New York, Taylor is a graduate of the Johnson Graduate School of Management at Cornell University and holds a Master of Business Administration. He also spent his undergraduate years at Cornell earning a Bachelor of Arts in Policy Analysis and Management.

“United We Do More!” United Way of Tompkins County Kicks Off Annual Community Campaign

Ithaca, NY — United Way of Tompkins County (UWTC) is pleased to share its Annual Community Campaign is underway! With the theme of “United We Do More,” this year’s campaign is led by volunteer co-chairs Alex Adelewitz, Service Manager for Wegman’s of Ithaca, and Sherri Koski, Executive Director of Ithaca Community Childcare Center, representing the UWTC impact partner network. This year’s fundraising goal is $1.8 million and provides support for nearly sixty Tompkins County nonprofits providing services to meet basic needs and help all people thrive.

Koski leads a UWTC impact partner agency, and she has also served as a grants reviewer for nearly twenty years. She states, “As a volunteer with United

Eric Taylor.

Alex Adelewitz. Sherri Koski.

Business Briefs

Cayuga

Health Appoints Morton as Chief Nursing Officer

Way, I'm excited to witness firsthand how every dollar makes a tangible difference in our community. The UWTC impact network of agencies are vital lifelines for our neighbors in need, and collectively we are transforming lives one contribution at a time. Your generosity makes a real difference—right here, right now.”

“It’s a honor and pleasure to return and partner with Sherri on this year’s campaign. As a native of Tompkins County, the success of my fellow neighbors is near and dear to my heart. Nobody should have to face hunger and food security on their own or wonder if they will have a safe place to call home. Everyone should be able to prioritize their health and well-being no matter the circumstance. Children should have every opportunity to grow and thrive in the community we call home. UWTC is committed to walking alongside those who face these challenges and those who are marginalized in our community. As a community we are united together and United We Do More,” states Adelewitz.

ITHACA RESTAURANTS

continued from page 10

Seneca Street this summer. George Papachryssanthou, the owner and founder of Thompson and Bleecker, said that when the building went on sale, he and his wife Milly thought its unique character would be perfect for a restaurant. They jumped at the chance to become their own landlords and expand Thompson and Bleecker on their terms.

Quality, experience and operational expertise will drive excellence across health system

Ithaca, NY —

Debra Morton, DNP, MA, BSN has been appointed Cayuga Health’s Chief Nursing Officer. Dr. Morton was selected following a national search and rigorous interview process that included nurses, physicians and administrators across the health system. Morton will be responsible for the strategic leadership and vision for Nursing and Patient Services, and ensuring high-quality, patient-centered care in both inpatient and outpatient settings.

Cayuga Health nurses’ dedication to providing excellent care in a community setting and am confident that together, we will achieve new levels of nursing innovation and achievement typically only realized in larger more urban settings. I am excited to collaborate with other members of the executive team and healthcare providers to optimize patient care delivery, improve interdisciplinary communication, and enhance patient satisfaction.”

Jamie Murphy Takes on New Role at Security Mutual Insurance Co.

ITHACA, NY — Security Mutual Insurance Company, represented by over 400 independent agents across New York State, is pleased to announce the promotion of Jamie Murphy to Territory Manager/Marketing Coordinator. This change reflects the company’s continued dedication to supporting the communities and customers it serves across the state.

continued from page 15

and with one exception, each has their own aria or two along with various duet, quartet, and sextet pairings. In this run, tenor Charles Calotte as Ferrando displayed a relaxed yet commanding stage presence while approaching his high notes with polished, fluid leaps, then sustaining them with flexibility and ease. Leroy Davis as

“I am pleased to join Cayuga Health to shape the future of nursing practice,” said Morton. “I was impressed by

“The older restaurant … was small and it wasn’t by choice at that point,” Papachryssanthou said. “My wife and I didn’t have the means to do anything larger, and we never really expected it to take off in the way that it did. … We put our heart and soul into it for five years and people were responsive in a very positive way, so we outgrew the space in a number of ways.”

Thompson and Bleecker’s new location opened June 20 and includes more seating space and a full bar, allowing the restau-

Guglielmo provided a smooth and equally balanced baritone to Calotte’s, their duetting becoming a flawless blend. The conniving Don Alfonso, sung by Tyler Putnam projects a tonally rich and mature baritone voice, reflecting a conniving calmness as he hustles Ferrando and Guglielmo towards a risky bet that endangers their on-set and off-set relationships with their lovers, Dorabella and Fiordiligi. Sarah Nordin plays Dorabello as a frivolous, impulsive woman who surrenders a bit too easily to her emo-

Morton joins Cayuga Health with over 30-years of acute care experience in hospital operations, strategic planning, operational and financial improvement, staff empowerment, labor relations and quality management. Morton previously held the role of Vice President of Patient Care Services and Chief Nursing Officer at Lifebridge Health Sinai Hospital, a 483 bed teaching hospital and level 2 trauma center (Baltimore MD). Previous experience also includes leadership roles at Kaiser Permanente and Dignity Health in California. Morton trained at Geisinger School of Nursing (Danville, PA), Thomas Jefferson University (Philadelphia, PA) and earned a doctorate of Nursing Practice from the University of San Francisco.

rant to add a full cocktail program. The larger kitchen includes more equipment that the team can use to introduce new menu items and specials.

The Papachryssanthous, who also own Ithaca Wine and Spirits and Chatty Cathy Café, plan to open a new restaurant, Fresh Marché, in Thompson and Bleecker’s old space.

Fresh Marché will serve salads with protein, grain bowls and sandwiches. Papachryssanthou said he hopes to open

tions, reflected in her lighter approach to her arias and recitatives. Andrea Baker is a powerful Fiordiligi, her rich and commanding soprano characterizes her initial resistance to cheating on her beloved, at least until the second act. Lisa Williamson’s Despina assumes a variety of disguises both dramatically and vocally, masquerading as the director of the soap opera, a last-minute replacement for a missing actor and an accomplice to Don Alfonso. Chris Zemliauskas directs the reduced

In her new role, Murphy will focus on driving agency growth and profitability, building strong relationships with agents, and providing training on the company’s products and systems. She will also manage internal and external communications, social media, advertising, and event coordination.

“Jamie’s 23 years of experience in the insurance industry, along with her dedication, make her an ideal fit for this expanded role. Her leadership will be key in strengthening agent relationships and fostering growth across our territories,” said Ron Wilder, President of Security Mutual Insurance Co. Outside of work, Murphy enjoys spending time with her family on their farm, attending horse shows, and playing golf. She holds several professional designations, including CIC, API, AINS, and CPIA.

the downtown location in late October and a second location in Catherine Commons in Collegetown in four or five months.

Papachryssanthou said he is grateful for the community support that allows his family to expand their offerings and try new ventures.

“One of the most rewarding things that you can have is being a part of a small community that is rooting for you and your success,” Papachryssanthou said.

orchestra, singers and actions with his usual unassuming confidence and workman-like approach. The sound and especially balance between singer and orchestra was perhaps the best blend ever heard in the Hangar.

Peter Rothbart is a Professor Emeritus of Music at the Ithaca College School of Music, Theatre and Dance where he taught electroacoustic and media music for 40 years. He remains active as a classical, jazz and pop musician.

Debra Morton.

By G.M. Burns

The storied career of musician Graham Nash has spanned more than six decades, and has featured iconic playing, lyrical writing and artful sing. In all that time he has earned a Grammy for Best Country Vocal of the song “Teach Your Children,” and is a two-time Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inductee with the bands the Hollies and Crosby, Stills, and Nash (CSN). He is also a two-time inductee into the Song Writers Hall of Fame for his own musical work and CSN. And according to management for Nash, since playing with the band the Hollies, Crosby, Stills, Nash, and Crosby, Stills, Nash and Young, as well as his own solo work — Nash has sold tens of millions of records.

His most recent release titled Now, highlights his story telling and artistry with the same sincere and creative melodies that has stood the test of time.

In a recent phone interview Nash spoke about his life in music and his upcoming performance with artist Judy Collins.

Ithaca Times: You began to play music in the 1960’s, but was it the music or a certain artist that drew you to playing and performing it?

Graham Nash: Well, I use to play in school with my friend Allan Clarke when I was sixyears-old. And then I saw the Everly Brothers, Buddy Holly, Elvis, and all those great Rock and Rollers from the American Top 40. And then Allan and I started to sing together. And then we got a bass player, a drummer, and a lead guitar player to come with us, and we formed the Hollies in December of 1962. And of course then I was in the Hollies for about seven years and then moved to America to join David [Crosby] and Stephen [Stills.]

IT: There are many artists that play a part in a musician’s career� Which artists made an impression on you creatively as you began playing in music? Was it the songwriting that impressed you? (How so?)

GN: It was a lot of things. Obviously, the song writing, particularly with in the case of Buddy Holly — if you knew a certain four

Arts & Entertainment Graham Nash Coming to Ithaca’s State Theatre

Legendary musician Graham Nash, known for his iconic work with The Hollies and Crosby, Stills, & Nash, reflects on his six-decade career and personal inspirations ahead of his October 12 show with Judy Collins at Ithaca's State Theatre. (Photo: Provided)

cords on a guitar you could play almost every single Buddy Holly song. And then of course my experience with the Everly Brothers, you know, are kind of well known. And so between the Everly Brothers and Buddy Holly that pushed me and Allan Clarke to form the Hollies — so that gives you an idea how important Buddy was.

IT: Do you still remember the first song you ever wrote? Can you describe it?

GN: There is a song called “Vinyl Lava” We made a video of it in 1964 — one of the very first — who was doing videos in 1964?

IT: You’re touring now — can you share how you get ready for a show?

GN: Yeah, I get dressed — I go out with my band and we sing. And that’s it. I don’t have a vocal coach and I don’t have vocal exercises. I do just shake my voice before I go out, but it’s just a nature thing with me. Frankly, I believe I am singing better than I ever did.

IT: Great� Talk about the upcoming show at the State Theatre with Judy Collins� What types of songs will you both perform?

GN: I believe Judy will be accompanied by a pianist, and I am sure she will do some of

her favorite songs for about 45 minutes. And then me and my three cohorts will take the stage. And quite frankly, I’m going to do music from all the way to the Hollies, all the way to Crosby/Nash, to Crosby, Stills and Nash, and my solo stuff.

IT: Talk about your recent album Now, and what was special about it for you?

GN: Because of the song title — it’s all about what I’m going through right now. I mean I’m 82 and ½, and I never thought that later in my life I that I would fall in love again. And I did. And so the four or five songs on the Nowalbum [are] on Amy Grantham. And I’m kind of in between being totally in love and being completely pissed off with what is going on in the world. And those are the other songs “Golden Idols,” and “Stars and Stripes,” etcetera.

IT: Would you like to add anything else about the upcoming show with Collins?

GN: I want people to know two things. One that I want to be making music for them, I’m not going to do it half-assed. I’m going to sing my songs that they have heard a million times with the same passion that had when I wrote them. And I think people are going to have two to three hours of [a] lovely feature.

Graham Nash and Judy Collins

Cayuga Chamber Orchestra Explores Ostinato’s Power in Upcoming Concert

By Peter Rothbart

The musical term ostinato, perhaps more familiar to contemporary audiences as a loop is a musical phrase that continually repeats as the composition develops around it. It roots the music, providing the audience with something familiar to grab onto as harmonies and melodies become increasingly complex and swirl above it. “Ostinato” is the Cayuga Chamber Orchestra’s theme for its next musical adventure on Saturday, October 12, in Ithaca College’s Ford Hall. All four pieces scheduled rely on the idea of ostinato, though it may not always be easily discernible to the listener. But it is there, gluing the work together. Charles Ives made little if any money from his compositions. He earned his keep as an insurance salesman. He heard very

Cayuga Chamber Orchestra Concert

Saturday, October 12, at 7:30 p.m.

Ford Hall, Ithaca College

Pre-Concert chat with Maestro Guillaume Pirard and pianist Orion Weiss at 6:30 p.m.

Tickets online at https://www.ccoithaca.org/, at door or CCO Office at (607) 273-8981.

REENTRY

PROGRAM

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and core operations,” Ionide said In response to Ioanide’s criticisms, Tompkins County Legislator Deborah Dawson provided context on the difficult budgeting process the County faces. While acknowledging the success of Sunflower Houses, Dawson emphasized that the County’s fiscal challenges required cuts across many areas, including social services.

Dawson explained that despite budget constraints, the County Administrator’s proposed budget still includes more than $2 million in funding for community-based organizations providing housing and social services. Of this, over $483,000 is allocated

few of his compositions performed, yet his New England stoicism enabled him to presage many of the music compositional forms and techniques that defined the 20th century music. He deployed unheard of techniques; orchestral sections each playing a different tempo at the same time, freely mixing tonal and atonal passages simultaneously, rearranging orchestral seating to emphasize his musical form.

All these techniques became part of the DNA of modern music. Mix in a dose of existential wondering and we are left with Ives’s most popular and famous piece, The Unanswered Question.

The opening solo trumpet asks “The Question” seven times; an angular, obtuse, and atonal line, ambivalently unresolved. The winds respond with dense, increasingly restless clusters of utterances, frantic at times, mournful at others. They attempt the answer six times before giving up. Underneath, the strings maintain a stalwart, ethereal tonal harmony unaffected by all this cacophony , finally fading into oblivion. If it’s disconcerting (sic), listen to the work with existential ears and ask yourself a question that has no answer. Then focus on the strings.

Italian born Luigi Boccherini spent three decades in Spain. Though considered a Classical era composer, his music reflects the throwback stateliness and reserve of the Spanish Court for whom he wrote. As

for OAR’s basic subsistence costs. She noted that even though the Human Services Coalition (HSC) recommended a $210,000 increase in County funding for supported agencies, not all requests could be accommodated due to financial limitations.

“In this very tough budget year, when the County Administrator advised County departments and supported agencies that funding would have to be cut by at least 5% from 2024 levels, the HSC approved and recommended a $210,000 increase in County funding for supported agencies,” Dawson said.

Dawson also pointed out that Tompkins County will spend nearly $5.3 million through contracts with nonprofit organizations to provide a variety of services, includ-

an homage to Spain’s capital city Madrid, Boccherini wrote Musica notturna delle strade di Madrid (Night Music of the Streets of Madrid), Opus 30, No. 6 (G. 324), for a string quintet. The seven movements are vignettes of the city after dark. Depending on the movement, we hear church bells, soldiers’ drums, popular dances, and evocations of street singers. Listen and watch to see if the cellos strum their instruments like guitars.

Cayuga Chamber Orchestra’s ‘Ostinato’ concert on October 12 will take the audience through a musical journey centered on repeated themes, featuring works by Ives, Boccherini, Mozart, and Mendelssohn.

(Photo: Provided)

fulness, and colorful lines.

Pianist Orion Weiss will tackle Mozart’s Piano Concerto No. 14, K. 449, considered to be among the first of Mozart’s mature concertos. Weiss is a mid-career virtuoso, having appeared as a soloist with the Chicago Symphony, Boston Symphony, Los Angeles Philharmonic, and New York Philharmonic. In 1999, five years before he graduated from Juilliard, and at the last moment, he replaced André Watts for a performance of Shostakovich’s Piano Concerto No. 2 with the Baltimore Symphony Orchestra.

As befitting a composer ensconced in the Classical period, Mozart is the master of the concerto form; four movements, four forms, four contrasting tempos all linked by Mozart’s tonal cleverness, phrasing that effortlessly extends melody and slyly subtle but sudden harmonic changes. Listen for Weiss’s soft touch, melodic play-

ing over $2 million dedicated to homeless sheltering and related services. “This is a tough year for everyone,” she said. “While we understand the importance of these programs, we also have to make difficult choices to ensure that the County can continue to support a wide range of essential services.”

loanide emphasized the importance of the Sunflower Houses program, saying, "There’s a core population of people who keep cycling in and out of jail, primarily due to substance use and mental health conditions.” She added, “Providing wraparound services like those offered by Sunflower Houses is far more cost-effective than continuously incarcerating people.” Despite the program’s proven success, the decision not to fully fund Sunflower

Felix Mendelsohn’s Symphony No.4 op. 90 in A major, known as the Italian Symphony is one of his most popular works. It’s lyricism and pure joy reflects Mendelsohn’s months long excursion to, and fascination with Italy. It is programmatic but unlike the Ives, it is totally devoid of philosophical angst, evoking pastoral images of Italian blue skies, Italian parades and processions, Italian architecture, and Italian dancing. Alas, no musical mention of Italian food but the most obvious ostinato of the night securely roots the last movement. It is a romp and reflects Mendelsohn’s seemingly innate pleasantness and playfulness.

Peter Rothbart is a Professor Emeritus of Music at the Ithaca College School of Music, Theatre and Dance where he taught electroacoustic and media music for 40 years. He remains active as a classical, jazz, and pop musician.

Houses has been met with frustration, especially since the county had invested in a comprehensive assessment to evaluate the program’s effectiveness. “It’s one of the few evidence-based, proven programs that we know works,” loanide said. “So it was disheartening to see it denied full funding.”

As the budget process continues, the fate of Sunflower Houses and other reentry programs remains uncertain. Advocates like Ioanide are urging the County to reconsider the proposed cuts, saying, “If we allow these programs to disappear, we are undermining the stability of our community…These services provide a lifeline for those who are trying to rebuild their lives after incarceration [and] we cannot afford to lose them.”

Opera Ithaca Continues with Mozart’s Cosi Fan Tutti

By Peter Rothbart

Opera Ithaca is quietly celebrating its 10th anniversary, having just completed a thrilling tri-partite weekend of operatic events featuring a concert by their Apprentice Artists, a re-screening of it critically acclaimed and nationally recognized video of Puccini’s opera Gianni Schicchi, filmed during the Covid induced hibernation and two live performances of Mozart’s opera, Cosi Fan Tutti at the Hangar Theatre.

Despite Artistic Director Ben Robinson’s just announced departure after five productive years, Opera Ithaca will continue its yearlong celebration by reviving its annual New Year’s Eve Gala, dormant since the Covid lockdown, and co-commissioning a new opera called Lucidity with music by Laura Kaminsky and libretto by David Cote. Lucidity explores the soulful journey of a woman dealing with dementia and the role music plays during her cognitive decline.

The co-commission with the Seattle Opera, Los Angeles Opera, Tri-Cities Opera and On Site Opera is a big deal, allow-

ing Opera Ithaca to claim world premier rights (and rites) alongside the biggies. Co-commissioning is an emerging model in the arts that allows organizations to consolidate their funding for specific projects, allowing them to create and produce new works. It’s good for upcoming as well as established composers, playwrights, and choreographers. It also allows smaller, less financially flushed organizations the opportunity to move beyond the usual warhorses of their repertoire and stay on the contemporary cutting edge of their art.

This past weekend’s dual performances of Mozart’s Cosi Fan Tutti, presented in the original Italian with projected English supertitles maintains Mozart’s and librettist Lorenzo da Ponte’s farcical intentions, mocking the stereotyped actions and cliched intentions of the characters.

Cosi Fan Tutti has survived not just because of its music, although its melodic lyricism and balanced phrasing would be reason enough, but because its libretto is so malleable. Originally set in Naples, Italy in the 1790, the universal themes of fickleness, infidelity and male chauvinism in courtship continue to be part of the

human experience. This allows intrepid directors the flexibility to shift both the time and place of the opera with only minor alterations to the libretto. Librettist da Ponte intentionally left the ending ambiguous, offering future directors an opportunity to steer the production as they saw fit. Robinson’s version mocks the males’ patronizing attitude towards the women, and

he shapes the ending by empowering the women to control their own destiny. The result is a caricature of romantic relationships and intrigues set to some of Mozart’s most lush and masterfully written music. Cosi is the consummate ensemble piece, six singers sharing the stage equally

Opera Ithaca celebrates its 10th anniversary with a vibrant weekend of events, featuring Cosi Fan Tutti at the Hangar Theatre. (Photo: Provided)

Don’t Bet on it

Should Pete Rose Be in the Hall of Fame?

By Steve Lawrence

Ihave been invited into at least a hundred conversations — both in the real world, and in online discussions — about the hit king Pete Rose and whether he should be enshrined in the Hall of Fame. Since that sad day in 1989 when then-Commissioner Bart Giamatti made the announcement that the evidence made it clear that Rose did in fact bet on baseball (hundreds of times), and must therefore be banned for life, my position has held steady.

One common statement is, “But Rose is Major League Baseball’s all-time hits leader.” That’s not the point. Another widely-held contention is that “Nobody ever played the game with more passion, day in and day out.” That’s not the point. Another common argument is, “But others have been alcoholics, abusers, steroid users and have committed all manner of transgressions and still made it to Cooper-

stown.” That’s not the point.

The point is, Rule 21-d in the MLB rule book very clearly states states that “Any player, umpire, or Club or League official or employee, who shall bet any sum whatsoever upon any baseball game in connection with which the bettor has a duty to perform, shall be declared permanently ineligible.”

There it is. It’s very clear. It’s posted on every clubhouse wall. Rose knew it. He cheated. And you know, he might have had a way out. Or, back in. as it were. America loves to forgive the contrite. Rose could have said, “I slipped up and thought I was bigger than the game. I was wrong. I am sorry. I won’t do it again. Please forgive me.” Did he say that? Hell no. Instead, Rose lied about it for 15 years. He dragged good men’s name through the mud (including Giamatti, who died of a heart attack 8 days after banning Rose). And do you remember when Pete came clean? When it came time to sell his book. That is

Baseball’s all-time hit leader Pete Rose died September 30 and was a source of admiration and condemnation.

some very unsavory behavior from a very unsavory character.

For decades, I have asked people who have wanted to have this discussion two questions: “How much do you know about baseball?” and “How much do you know about addictive behavior?” If the person claims to know something about both things, I lay out this potential scenario: A Manager’s team has a game on Saturday night, and another on Sunday afternoon.

In Saturday’s game, the situation calls for his best middle reliever, However, the Manager has no money bet on that game. He does, However, have a large sum bet on Sunday’s game. We all know what decision he will make. And that, my friends, is why gambling carries the equivalent of the death penalty in the MLB rules.

I was saddened by the sordid Rose tale. He played like a hungry leopard, and I really wanted to see him change his spots. I always believed that MLB would risk its credibility if the ban was lifted, but I was willing to entertain the possibility if Rose would change his attitude, and his behavior. Well, anyone who knows anything about Pete Rose knows that was never going to happen.

When Rose died last week, Dan Shaughnessy of the Boston Globe wrote something that reminded me of a statement commonly put forth by Dr. Phil McGraw, on his long-running television show. McGraw said (I paraphrase), “If a person is addicted to something, that is their primary relationship.” Shaughnessy wrote, “Pete Rose loved gambling more than he loved baseball.”

I wish it had unfolded differently. I was a fan for many years. Rose deserved to be the Hit King. He did not deserve to be in the Hall of Fame. R.I.P., Pete.