October 11, 2023

F R E E / O c t o b er 11 , 2 0 2 3 / V o l u m e X L I I I , N u m b er 5 9 / O u r 5 1 s t Y e a r

Online @ ITH ACA .COM

Cornell Celebrates Legacy of Hip-Hop with Worlds Largest Collection of Artifacts PAGES 8-9 PAGES COMMUNITY9-12

WORKSHOP SEEKING GROWTH PAGE 3

CORNELL CORNELL FACULTY NEGOTIATIONS CALLS ON COMPLICATE CITY UNIVERSITY TO PAY BUDGET ITS FAIR SHARE PAGE 4

PAGE 6

STAND UP IS BACK! PAGE 11

COMMON GROUND: AN INSPIRING FARMING DOCUMENTARY PAGE 13

Artist Residency

Join us in celebrating our

TH ANNIVERSARY with a 7-MONTH CERTIFICATE SPECIAL.

Y YEARS OF DEDICATION

SEVENT Y YEARS OF DEDICATION

7.0 % APY*

work by Anna Warfield

RATES UP TO

Open House

Sunday, Oct. 15 4:00 - 6:00pm readings at 4:15pm 435 Ellis Hollow Creek Rd, Ithaca On the Lennox Ultimate Comfort System: Rebates up to Rebates up to

$1,500

OR no interest for 6 months

OR

$1,200 AND no interest for 6 months

FOR MORE INFO, VISIT mycfcu.com/certpromo

*APY=Annual Percentage Yield. APY is accurate as of 9/1/2023 and is available for a limited time through 10/31/23. Certificate term is 7 months. The APY of 7.00% is based on a minimum balance of $100,000 with an Eligible Account to qualify for the bonus rate. Actual APY will vary based on account balance and certificate owner(s) having an Eligible Account. Other tiers available with Eligible Account to qualify for bonus rate: 5.00% APY with minimum balance of $500 and 6.00% APY with minimum balance of $25,000. The APY is variable during the initial term, but at no time will be below the base rate and at no time will exceed the bonus rate. See Truth in Savings Disclosure for details on base rates, bonus rates and tiers, and minimum balance requirements. Rate changes are within the Credit Union’s discretion and may change on any Business Day, during the initial term, based on the certificate account owner(s) having an Eligible Account. Business Day is any day except Sundays and federal holidays. Eligible Account is defined as any of the following: Transformation Checking, Student Checking, or Business Rewards Checking, which must be active as defined by the Credit Union. The certificate account owner(s) must be the primary or joint owner of the Transformation Checking or Student Checking or must be the primary owner of the Business Rewards Checking. Maximum opening deposit is $250,000.00. A primary owner cannot exceed $250,000.00 in combined opening deposits in one or more 7 Month Special certificates; this includes any certificates opened in the current promo period 9/1/23-10/31/23 and the prior promo period 4/10/23-6/30/23. Certificate will automatically renew for a 12-month term at maturity at the then current 12-month certificate rate. The APY is based on an assumption that the dividends will remain on deposit until maturity. Penalties may be imposed for early withdrawal.

Open an account online, visit a branch, or call 800-428-8340.

2 T h e I t h a c a T i m e s / O c to b e r 1 1 – 1 7 , 2 0 2 3

Rebate requires purchase of qualifying items between September 11, 2 2023 and December 1, 2023 from a participating Lennox dealer. Contact your local participating Lennox dealer for promotion details. Qualifying items must be installed by December 8, 2023.

Financing offer available September 11,2023 to December 1, 2023. All applications are subject to credit review and approval. Not all applicants will qualify. Complete terms and conditions and Truth in Lending disclosures will be set forth in the Retail Installment contract which you should review carefully.

Conditions apply. See www.lennox.com/terms-and-conditions for complete terms and conditions.

Copyright 2023 Lennox Industries Inc. Lennox dealers are independently owned and operated businesses.

Newsline

VOL. XLIII / NO. 59 / October 11, 2023 Serving 47,125 readers week ly

ON THE COVER:

Ithaca Generator Looks to Expand Membership

Assistant Curator Ben Ortiz shows off Cornell’s Hip Hop Collection.

Open House Planned for October 22

SPORTS ������������������������������������������ 10 ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT �������������������� 11

A

NEWSLINE ������������������������������������3-5 GUEST OPINION ����������������������������� 6 ITHACA NOTES ������������������������������� 7

By Robert Rieger

spirit of camaraderie mixed with creativity filled the room at a recent “Share What You Made” event at Ithaca Generator, a makerspace bursting with tools and artistic supplies located at 233 Cherry Street.

Jen showed unique clothes with block print designs. Gerry held up a wall hanging inspired by Buckminster Fuller. Shareef passed around soft, handmade cotton paper.

Trevor introduced his terra cotta collection.

Dylan presented his clay pieces made using a 3D printed mold. Liz shared imaginative The community workshop at 233 Cherry Street is looking to expand its presence in the community. (Photo: Provided) mugs made for her ceramics business.

“A lot of people really liked a certain volunteer non-profit housed in a much Launched in 2013, Ithaca Generator mug so now I’m making more of them,” larger building currently with around 80 seeks to make tools and training available she said. members. The Sciencenter rents the buildto a wide range of community members.

The generator recently launched a new ing to Ithaca Generator. Retirees, univerinitiative to expand membership. Organiz- They host classes, events, and one-on-one instruction, all designed to bring members sity students, and professionals—including ers welcome the community to attend an teachers, an illustrator, a letter carrier, and together to promote making. The main upcoming open house, scheduled for Ocengineers—are all represented. areas of the generator include woodworktober 22 from Noon to 6 p.m. Attendees Members rallied during the Covid paning, ceramics, fabric arts including sewing can tour the space, see tools and completdemic, making protective masks using 3D and leatherwork, 3D printing, electronics, ed projects, and talk with current makers printers. They produced 10,000 masks and laser cutter, and metal working. and artists. This year’s open house will sent them to health care facilities.

The organization is run by a board feature a Halloween theme and include a Liz Stratton joined the generator early of directors and several committees. A potluck meal and demonstrations in each this year and has already taken on leaderbasic membership costs $45/month and of the areas. ship roles as a co-captain of ceramics and as includes access to the building and tools.

The organization hosts a “Share What a board member. In her day job, she works Donations are accepted and a scholarship You Made” every Tuesday at 7 p.m. that remotely for John Hopkins University and program is in the works. is also open to the public. Members from What began in two small spaces in various areas show and discuss items they Press Bay Alley has evolved into an allmade.

Contin u ed on Page 14

T a k e

N o t e

X Tompkins County Office of Human Rights Announces Annual Arts Competition The Tompkins County Office of Human Rights is thrilled to announce the 36th Annual Universal Declaration of Human Rights Arts Competition. Individual, class, or group entries are open for students in grades K-12 in Tompkins County.

Entries will be accepted between October 16 – November 14, 2023.

The Competition seeks to educate and encourage discussion among s tudent s

regarding the 30 articles of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR), adopted by the United Nations General Assembly on December 10, 1948.

Over seven decades later, the Universal Declaration remains the internationally recognized standard to promote justice, equity, inclusion, and democratic principles.

The competition is sponsored by the Tompkins County Office of Human Rights

(TCOHR), in collaboration with Dorothy Cotton Institute (DCI).

Individual, Class, or Group Entries are we l co m e. T h e O f f i ce o f H um an R i ght s encourages small groups (5 - 6 students working together), and partner (2 students wo r k i n g co ll a b o r at i ve l y) su b m issi o ns .

Additionally, entire class entries can choose to focus on one or all 30 of the Human Rights Articles.

For more information, please visit our website at: https://www.tompkinscountyny. gov/humanrights/artsk12

ARTS ����������������������������������������������� 12 FILM ����������������������������������������������� 13 DINING ������������������������������������������ 14 TIMES TABLE ��������������������������� 16-17 CLASSIFIED ������������������������������ 18-20

ON T HE WE B Visit our website at www.ithaca.com for more news, arts, sports and photos. Call us at 607-277-7000 M a t t D o u g h e r t y , M a n a g i n g E d i t o r , x 1217 E d i t o r @ I t h a c aTi m e s . c o m Ch r i s I b e r t, C a l en da r Ed i to r , A r t s @ I t h a c aTi m e s . c o m A n d r e w S u l l i v a n , S p o r t s E d i t o r , x 1227 Sports@flcn.org M a t t D o u g h e r t y , N e w s R e p o r t e r , x 1225 R e p o r t e r @ I t h a c aTi m e s . c o m Michelle L aMorte, Photographer Ste ve L awrence, Spo rts Co lumn ist St e v e S p o r t sD u d e @ g m a i l .co m L u c y A l l e n , F r o n t D es k F r o n t @ I t h a c a T i mes . c o m J i m B i l i n s k i , P u b l i s h e r , x 1210 j b i l i n s k i @ I t h a c aTi m e s . c o m L a r r y H o c h b e r g e r , A ss o c i a t e P u b l i s h e r , x 1214 l a r r y@ I t h a c aTi m e s . c o m F r ee l a n ce r s : Barbara Adams, Stephen Burke, G. M Burns, Alyssa Denger, Jane Dieckmann, Charley Githler, Ross Haarstad, Steve Lawrence, Marjorie Olds, Henry Stark, Bryan VanCampen, and Arthur Whitman THE ENTIRE CONTENTS OF THE ITHACA TIMES ARE C O P Y R I G H T © 2 02 3, B Y N E W S K I I N C .

All rights reserved. Events are listed free of charge in TimesTable. All copy must be received by Friday at noon. The Ithaca Times is available free of charge from various locations around Ithaca. Additional copies may be purchased from the Ithaca Times offices for $1. SUBSCRIPTIONS: $89 one year. Include check or money order and mail to the Ithaca Times, PO Box 27, Ithaca, NY 14851. ADVERTISING: Deadlines are Monday 5 p.m. for display, Tuesday at noon for classified. Advertisers should check their ad on publication. The Ithaca Times will not be liable for failure to publish an ad, for typographical error, or errors in publication except to the extent of the cost of the space in which the actual error appeared in the first insertion.

The publisher reserves the right to refuse advertising for any reason and to alter advertising copy or graphics deemed unacceptable for publication.

The Ithaca Times is published weekly Wednesday mornings. Offices are located at 109 N. Cayuga Street, Ithaca, NY 14850 607-277-7000, FAX 607277-1012, MAILING ADDRESS is PO Box 27, Ithaca, NY 14851. The Ithaca Times was preceded by the Ithaca New Times (1972–1978) and The Good Times Gazette (1973–1978), combined in 1978. Founder Good Times Gazette: Tom Newton

O c to b e r 1 1 – 1 7 , 2 0 2 3 / T h e I t h a c a T i m e s

3

INQUIRING City 2024 Budget Complicated PHOTOGRAPHER

N e w s l i n e

By Miche l l e L a Mor te WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE FALL ACTIVITY?

“Going to football games.”

– Sam L.

“The Apple Harvest Festival, we've done it for 26 years.”

– Debbie T.

“Going to a pumpkin farm.”

– Mikayla D.

“Dressing up and going trick or treating with my friends.”

– Dylan L.

“Hiking on the Finger Lakes Trails.”

– Laura L.

by Cornell MOU Uncertainty

By M at t D ough e rt y

The Mayor's proposed budget includes funding he City of Ithaca is crafting its 2024 for all new and budget as questions regarding how vacant positions much money Cornell University requested by city will contribute to the City remain undepartments certain. The budget will be discussed at without increasseveral meetings throughout October and ing the current is expected to be brought to the Common tax rate of $11.98 Council for a final vote in November.

Part of the reason why taxpayers are hit with such high taxes in Ithaca is because 57% of City property is tax-exempt. Cornell Universtiy owned 79% of that property. per $1,000. The During the October 4 meeting of the budget also Common Council, Mayor Laura Lewis includes a 5% tax levy increase, and Mayor MOU agreement between the City and presented Ithaca’s proposed 2024 budget, Cornell would be approved. That agreeLewis said the City will be operating saying that developing the budget has ment would see Cornell contribute $4.08 above the 2.2% tax cap. The total revenue been a “gargantuan task” and that the city million to the City in 2024, with annual is “continuing to see an increase in costs in is projected at $30,690,864, with property adjustments increasing with inflation all areas.” Lewis said that her top priorities and sales taxes expected to make up a through 2044. Lewis has said that the in crafting the budget were to reduce debt, combined 69.1%. agreement stipulates that 80% of the funds According to Lewis, under the proposed keep tax rate and tax levy increases to a are unrestricted and can be used freely budget, the owner of a median-priced minimum, integrate new labor contract by the City — while the remaining 20% wages, and maintain a robust fund balance. home at $302,000 would pay $3,295 in city or $816,000 “is restricted to infrastructaxes in 2024, not including Ithaca City As usual, staff have been struggling ture work determined by a joint working School District taxes. When accounting with the annual difficulty of crafting a group.” budget in a City where 57% of its property for the added $4,898 in taxes for the school If the Common Council does not apis tax-exempt. According to Lewis, Cornell district, the average Ithacan can expect to prove the MOU agreement at the upcompay around $8,193 in combined taxes.

University owns 79% of that property — ing special meeting on October 11, Lewis The proposed budget has allocated the the remaining 21% consists of “all county most funding to the Department of Public said the budget must be “reworked.” buildings, churches, synagogues, schools, Lewis has warned that if the budget is Works (DPW), followed by the Ithaca and any other entity that is tax exempt.” sent back to the drawing board without Police Department, Fire Department, This leaves the rest of property owners in support from Cornell, there will be potenYouth Bureau, Planning Department, the city with the burden of paying higher tial for an additional increase in taxes, and GIAC, Finance, Human Resources, City property taxes, which translates into the city will struggle to attain the necesAttorney, City Manager, Mayor, and Comhigher housing costs for renters. sary funds to follow through on pay raises mon Council. In addition, Lewis said the The budget totals $101,058,360 — with included in recently negotiated contracts proposed budget includes “no changes in $80,379,063 in the general operating with city staff. The City Executive Associathe sidewalk fee, no changes in the water fund and $5,006,000 allocated for capital tion, Police Benevolent Association, Derates, a 10% increase in sewer rates, an projects. The total budget is increasing by increase in trash ranges from $4.50 per tag partment of Public Works, and Firefightover $10 million over the 2023 budget of to $5 per tag, and no changes to the cost of ers Association have all negotiated new $90,350,883. agreements, leaving the City with no open yard waste tags or stormwalabor contracts for the first time in several ter fees.” years. Lewis said, “We want to honor those Lewis says that the procontracts, but that takes funding.” posed budget “adds or restores During a special meeting of the Com22 positions…including City mon Council on September 20, Cornell’s Manager, Deputy City Manager, three new firefighters, and Vice President of University Relations, seven new police officers start- Joel Malina, said that if the agreement is not approved, Cornell’s contribution will ing in December 2024.” She revert to zero in 2024. This would result in added, “There are eight police a $1.6 million budget shortfall for the City officers in the budget starting in 2024. at an earlier date.”

In an attempt to address the concerns During the presentation, surrounding a potential budget shortfall Lewis reminded members of The proposed 2024 budget allocates the most funding if the agreement is not approved, Fourth the Common Council that to the Department of Public Works, followed by the proposed budget was the Ithaca Police and Fire Departments. crafted assuming the new Contin u ed on Page 15

T

4 T h e I t h a c a T i m e s / O c to b e r 1 1 – 1 7 , 2 0 2 3

UPS&DOWNS

N e w s l i n e

Rally Calls for Short-Term Deal with Cornell

M

By M at t D ough e rt y

Ups

The Ithaca Experimental Film Festival at Ithaca College is taking place on October 13 starting at 8:15 p.m. The festival will present the film “Hello Dankness” which has been described as a “political fable that bears witness to the psychotropic spectacle of American politics from 2016 to 2021.”

of Ithaca with a $1.6 million gap.

This scenario will lead to an astounding increase in city taxes and devastating cuts to city staff and services.”

DeFendini continued, “This posture by Cornell adds a

ore than 200 faculty members at Cornell University have signed an open letter calling on Cornell to pay a fair share to the community. Fourth Ward Alderperson Jorge DeFendini is asking Cornell to agree to a short-term deal to fully fund the 2024 City budget while allowing negotiations for a new memorandum of understanding Fourth Ward Alderperson Jorge DeFendini spoke at the rally on the Commons saying that Cornell should agree to a “stop-gap” deal with the City to fully fund the 2024 budget to restart in good faith. so negotiations on a new MOU can take place in good faith. (Photo: Stella Frank) These were the topics of discussion at a rally at the Bernie Milton Pavillion on the Several members of the Common coercive incentive Commons orgaCouncil, including DeFendini, have idenfor members of nized by Cornell’s tified other issues in the MOU agreement Council to accept Chapter of the regarding the extended time frame of the the deal regardless American Associadeal and the “gag order” in Clause Six that of if they view it tion of University as favorable or not, prohibits the City from lobbying New Professors (AAUP) York State to make changes to Cornell’s as the alternative and the Ithaca tax-exempt status. would spell ecoDemocratic SocialSecond Ward Alderperson Ducson nomic hardships ists of America. for the constituents Nguyen said that he thinks it’s “totally The rally took place worth asking/demanding” for a shortwe represent.” He before the October term deal, but that “Cantelmo essentially added, “This situ4 Common Coundid that on the floor with Malina and got ation is both articil meeting. a no, so I don’t think that’ll get us very ficial and arbitrary.

During the — Fourth Ward Alderperson far. ” Nguyen said he would be interested At any moment rally, Alderperson Jorge DeFendini in moving forward with the agreement if over the coming DeFendini said, “If it had “a shorter time frame and the gag weeks, Cornell can the city does not clause removed.” receive payments from Cornell University agree to a one-year agreement to make Fifth Ward Alderperson Kris Hainespayments to the City of Ithaca while a before November 8, Common Council long-term deal continues to be discussed.” Sharp — who was part of the city’s team will be left to craft a budget for the City negotiating with Cornell — said that she would like Cornell to contribute more but that, based on Malina’s response, she doesn’t think they will. Sharp said she would likely support the deal if the time frame is shortened and the “gag order” in Clause Six is removed. However, she added, “If all parties could agree that a one-year stop gap would help this process move forward productively, I’d support it.”

First Ward Alderperson George McGonigal said, “Cornell is not going to agree to what Jorge is suggesting,” and he would support “a 10-year contract at $4 million and clause six removed.” McGonigal added that he would also like to see a “measurable commitment from Cornell to sue local suppliers and local labor and to see the annual contribution of faculty

“At any moment over the coming weeks, Cornell can agree to a one-year agreement to make payments to the City of Ithaca while a long-term deal continues to be discussed.”

Doznes of residnts attended a rally on October 4 calling on Cornell to pay a fair share to the community. (Photo: Stella Frank)

Contin u ed on Page 15

Downs

A Toxics Targeting Map of Harmful Algal Blooms in New York State has revealed that Cayuga Lake has had more confirmed Harmful Algal Blooms than any other waterbody in the state in 2023. The map is based on data from the State Department of Environmental Conservation.

HEARD&SEEN Heard

The Gunpoets are playing in the Golden Hour Music Series at South Hill Cider this Friday, October 13.

Time: 5:30 p.m./Doors open at 4:30 p.m. Location: 550 Sandbank Road, Ithaca, NY 14850 Cover: $10 at the door / Option to purchase tickets in advance.

Seen

More than 60 local emergency responders have expressed support for a statement released by paramedic James Smith that claims decriminalizing camping on city property will endanger first responders.

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

What is your favorite Disney Channel Halloween Movie?

29.4% Halloweentown .

52.9% Hocus Pocuso.

17.6%

Phantom of the Megaplex.

N ext Week ’s Q uestion :

Do you think the City will be able to hire a City Manager before January 1, 2024?

Visit ithaca.com to submit your response.

O c to b e r 1 1 – 1 7 , 2 0 2 3 / T h e I t h a c a T i m e s

5

The Talk at

In Support of Dryden’s Elected Officials

I

have lived in Dryden for 19 years and have been following our Dryden Town government closely for the last 14. The current group of leaders, Supervisor Leifer, Town Board members Dravis and Buck, Town Clerk Avery and Town judge Clauson have shown that they are capable and dedicated to making the lives of all of us in Dryden better. What they have done so far and their plans for our future make this obvious. I urge all Dryden voters to vote for Jason, Christina, Spring, Bambi and Chris November 7 or during Early Voting starting October 28.

— Joseph & Martha Wilson

In Support of Mark Witmer, Kate Kelley-Mackenzie, Tim Murray, and Michele Brown for Caroline Town Board & Supervisor

F

or the last two years, the Town Board of Caroline has worked to formulate a modest zoning plan for the Town. Despite numerous public meetings and changes to the plan in response to citizens’ concerns, the issue

remains very contentious. As a result, single-issue challengers are opposing the incumbent Town Supervisor and two Board members, along with a new candidate for the Board.

But zoning is far from the only issue in Caroline, and we are concerned that other important, ongoing projects that the Supervisor and Council members have begun will be fumbled or dropped should they not be re-elected. Supervisor Mark Witmer and Council members Kate Kelley-Mackenzie and Tim Murray have spearheaded programs to provide residential solar and other home energy improvements, have won hundreds of thousands of dollars in grants for improved residential lighting and expanded broadband access, are improving town highway facilities and our beloved old Town Hall, and have passed tax exemptions for first responders, veterans, and disabled residents. Additionally and most importantly, they have been working with Tompkins County on improving emergency services for our far-flung, rural town. All of these efforts will benefit Caroline residents, but they require cooperation with County and state agencies, and they take time, sometimes years, to put together.

And the incumbents have done all this while staying under the tax cap.

Contin u ed on Page 7

6 T h e I t h a c a T i m e s / O c to b e r 1 1 – 1 7 , 2 0 2 3

GUEST OPINION

Cornell Faculty Open Letter Urges University to Pay Fair Share to Community By 2 0 0+ M e m be r s of C or n e l l Facu lt y

C

ornell University has the immense privilege of being exempt from property taxes. It enjoys this privilege due to New York State law’s treatment of nonprofit organizations, the underlying purpose of which is to help sustain institutions that will serve the public interest. The tax exemption is a public subsidy to Cornell to support its mission to provide education for the common good. The public mission of education reflects the democratic value of education, which should benefit society as a whole and should not serve as a private commodity benefiting only the individual student or faculty member.

This tax exemption — this public subsidy — heightens Cornell’s moral obligation and social duty to act as a responsible member of the communities in which it is embedded. The communities of Ithaca and Tompkins County benefit from Cornell’s presence. That is only part of the story, though. Cornell’s presence also imposes heavy financial and social costs on these communities through Cornell’s use of public services, its enjoyment of the benefits of this region, and its negative impact of raising the cost of living in Ithaca and surrounding communities. To maintain its legitimacy as an educational institution for the common good and to fulfill its moral and social obligations to contribute to the well-being of these communities, Cornell should pay its fair share to defray these heavy costs and contribute positively to the communities in which it lives.To maintain its standing as a national leader in sustainability and social progress, Cornell must show leadership in its own community by making payments commensurate with its rapid growth.

Further, as revealed by the Cornell University and Indigenous Dispossession Project, Cornell was founded on, and has profited from, Indigenous dispossession and land theft here on Gayogo̱ hó:nǫɁ homelands and throughout the country. In addition to the

forms of reparation called for by the Project, the University must change its extractive relationship to the communities of which we are a part.

Cornell’s privileged legal status is a prime reason why Ithaca has accumulated a large public debt, why Ithaca faces a budget deficit this year, and why Ithaca faces a sustainability crisis in the long term. For the last twenty years, Cornell has made a miserly contribution to the City of Ithaca, and even less to the wider communities in Tompkins County. Its contribution, moreover, has been heavily restricted so that much of the funding it does provide must be spent on priorities set or agreed to

by Cornell, rather than on priorities established by the democratic process.

It is time for Cornell to face up to its responsibilities and to contribute its fair share. This requires Cornell to increase its payments to the City of Ithaca and other elected bodies, substantially beyond the $4 million currently on offer; to fully remove restrictions on the use of these funds; to remove prohibitions against advocating for changes to nonprofit tax law; and to agree to a more regular updating to account not just for inflation but for the growth of Cornell and new costs facing our communities.

Like many large enterprises, Cornell brings many benefits to the region. In making its case to the public, however, the University does not account for any of the costs it imposes alongside these benefits.

For example, it lists the size of its payroll (as though paying employees is an act of kindness), but does not list Ithaca’s shortage of affordable housing, or the higher property taxes paid by homeowners — and by extension renters — that results from Cornell’s tax exempt status. It lists grants it has provided to small businesses, but does not consider the enormous wear on public infrastructure generated by the influx of students, parents, or alumni. It lists its investments in community organizations, but does not note the lack of public investments that results from its non-payment of taxes.

Contin u ed on Page 15

ITHACA NOTES

GUEST OPINION

Imposed Poverty

Ithaca Needs to be Affordable for Cornell to Thrive

By St e ph e n Bu r k e

E

mily (not her real name) recently graduated from Ithaca College and works a retail job downtown. Recently she had to go to her supervisor with a bit of temporary bad news for both herself and the job.

She told her supervisor she would have to miss her next few shifts, maybe more than a few. Her car had broken down and needed repairs costing $800, maybe more, which she didn’t have.

Emily lives about 10 miles out of town.

There is only sporadic bus service from her area to downtown. There’s none at night, when her shift ends.

The supervisor pondered the situation.

There was a lot to ponder.

The time Emily would miss included weekend shifts, the hardest to fill: bad news for the job.

The bad news for Emily was more entrenched. The logistics and cost of cabs or ride service 10 miles to and from work were prohibitive. She was trying to find a friend who could help, but her late hours made it difficult. Meanwhile, she needed to work (and work more, not less) to pay for the car repairs. But in her immediate situation she couldn’t work profitably at all.

Emily’s lack of funds to meet an emergency is an example of a phenomenon that apparently is common.

Every year, the Federal Reserve conducts a Survey on Household Well-Being. This year’s reported that 32 percent of 5,000 Americans surveyed don’t have savings to cover a sudden expense of even $500. 18 percent don’t have $100. 13 percent have zero.

What about using a credit card? The Federal Reserve reports that while 98 percent of Americans with income of $100,000 or more have a credit card (or cards), 34 percent earning under $25,000 don’t. More than half with less than a high school degree don’t.

Younger Americans, like Emily, are under-represented among credit card holders. So are seniors. Meanwhile, Forbes reports that older Americans are increasingly in credit card debt. In 1989, 10 percent of Americans 75 or older had credit card debt. In 2019, 28 percent did, at a median amount six times higher.

Wage stagnation has made saving difficult if not impossible for many workers. Adjusted for inflation, wages have essentially not increased since 1990. Currently the United Auto Workers are on strike against the Big

Three automobile manufacturers: Adjusted for inflation, their wages have dropped by more than 20% in the past two decades.

Back to Emily’s situation. Doesn’t she have an obligation to show up to work, whether she’s making enough money or not?

Her supervisor grimaces and shrugs.

“She’s not a volunteer,” they say. “She works for the money. If the money isn’t there, is she going to be there?

“She’s a good worker,” the supervisor says. “Ordinarily, absenteeism isn’t an issue with her. She has a temporary problem. I appreciate that she’s honest with me. She could have taken the easy way out and not told me and just called in sick. Told me she got Covid. At least now I know what’s going on in advance and can maybe help it.

“I wish I could help by lending her the money. I have $400 cash in my pocket right now. But it would be awkward, if not inappropriate. A bad precedent for the workplace, too, I suppose.”

The situation has spurred the supervisor to look into the concept of a lending circle for the workplace: or, more accurately, among the workers, most likely independent of the workplace.

It’s an old idea with a lot of iterations, but basically, lending circles are groups of people who voluntarily pool money and make loans to members at little or no interest. Often it is for times of emergency, but not necessarily. Terms and criteria vary.

Even a fledgling or modest circle with a current pool of $1000 would be able to help someone in a situation like Emily’s.

The assistance would prevent Emily from missing work and missing paychecks. The money she would earn would enable her to pay back the loan promptly.

The poverty rate in the U.S. rose to 12.4 percent in 2022 from 7.8 percent in 2021, the largest one-year jump on record, according to the Census Bureau. Poverty among children more than doubled.

The increase resulted in large part from the expiration of government safety net programs that were started or expanded during the pandemic.

As workers unite, with practical (if drastic) measures like strikes, and creative (if small) ones like lending circles, hopefully it is with the realization that, in the words of one researcher, “poverty is very much a policy choice.”

By M a rg a r et Fa br i z io, Fi f t h Wa r d C om mon C ou nc i l C a n di dat e

I

t’s easy to get lost in the weeds about the Cornell-City agreement but it’s important to acknowledge that property taxes are how we fund critical community services like roads, sidewalks, fire, public safety, water, youth services, parks, schools, and all else.

When a city has nearly $3B worth of property off the tax rolls, there is an enormous gap to be filled. This is our current situation, and the situation in many other cities and towns in the U.S. who play host to institutions with large tax-free footprints. Ithaca is an important piece of a larger national movement seeking change, and this movement is growing, along with the collective Ivy League endowment, projected to top $1 trillion in 25 years.

We have only to look at recent community wins in Providence, Philadelphia, and Princeton, pending legislation in Massachusetts and Rhode Island, and the new interest in this issue in New York State. Sustained community action, legal action, and legislative change has helped many communities gain new partnership models with the Ivy League institutions they host. Significant work lies ahead and Ithacans from all sectors are committed to innovative, updated thinking about the status and obligations of tax-exempt properties belonging to multibillion-dollar corporations.

The reasons are simple: Cornell’s taxexempt status creates a gap of $33M for the city, $15M for Tompkins County, and $46M for the Ithaca City School District. The ever-rapidly-increasing taxes for property owners, in turn, passed on to renters, are a large part of why Ithaca ranks as one of the most expensive small cities in the U.S. It is indisputable that Cornell contributes massively to our community, in so many ways, from being the largest employer to sending thousands of its LETTERS TO THE EDITOR contin u ed from page 6

Town-wide broadband may sound like a low priority, but the Covid epidemic demonstrated how essential it is that

students into local non-profits to making us an international oasis in upstate New York. It is estimated Cornell’s regional economic impact is over $2B. Yet communities cost money to operate let alone be visionary and innovative, and a small number of taxpayers cannot, nor should they be expected to, make up huge gaps.

For Cornell to thrive and recruit and retain faculty, Ithaca needs to be an affordable city for buying and owning a home and building a dynamic and vibrant life. Having what amounts to a second mortgage to pay local taxes does not fit with these goals. Paying some of the highest rent in the country for a city this size doesn’t fit either. The direct financial contribution Cornell makes toward the services we all rely on will ultimately play a large role in who chooses to come here and stay here, and this directly impacts Cornell, as does safety on our streets, having a fully staffed fire department, exemplary schools, youth services, and all the other amenities that bolster our quality of life and are paid for through the property tax.

The sooner Cornell becomes a full partner with the community, the better for the university and its future, and the better for all the rest of us. We share common needs. It’s not we v. them. Cornell needs exactly what we all need.

We implore you to come on board, Cornell. Residents of Tompkins County, your home base, believe you have the means to make a huge impact without adversely affecting operations. We invite you to help make our community thrive. Cornell’s Do the Greatest Good Campaign seeks to raise $5B. Its impact needs to start right here at home.

For more information, contact fairsharecampaign@gmail.com Margherita Fabrizio, City Resident, Founder, Fair Share Campaign 607 351 6631 fabriziomargherita@gmail.com October 4, 2023 every Caroline resident, no matter how remote, be able to easily access information, conduct business, and participate in school and other vital connections.

Contin u ed on Page 15

O c to b e r 1 1 – 1 7 , 2 0 2 3 / T h e I t h a c a T i m e s

7

As Hip Hop Turns 50, Cornell’s Collection Celebrates its Vibrant Past and Present

H

By Ve e C i ppe r m a n

ip Hop reached its 50th where 18-year-old Clive Campbell, or DJ anniversary on August 11, Kool Herc, used the merry-go-round turn2023, and the world’s larg- table technique to loop melodic breaks in songs. His sister Cindy est colCampbell, a graffiti artlection ist and breakdancer, orof Hip Hop artifacts is ganized the party. It conprepared for a semester solidated the main eleof celebration and eduments of Hip-Hop, givcation. ing birth to a genre and The Cornell Hip Hop culture.

Collection, established Hip Hop as a movein 2007, opened the exment involves more hibition “It’s Just Begun: than just music. The four Celebrating 50 Years of main elements of Hip the Hip Hop DJ” on AuHop are commonly recgust 11. In November, ognized as MCing, DJing, they will host an event — Katherine Reagan breakdancing, and grafon the same theme, acfiti art or tagging. Thus, cording to Assistant Cuthe Cornell Hip Hop Collection contains rator Ben Ortiz.

The anniversary commemorates a 1973 over 250,000 multimedia items, including back-to-school party in the South Bronx, flyers, records, photographs, sound recordings, and more.

The Collection began in collaboration with historian Johan Kugelberg and photographer Joe Conzo, whose work had recorded the earliest years of Hip Hop. Katherine Reagan, the assistant director in the Division of Rare and Manuscript Collections, helped Kugelberg and Conzo find a “The Adventures of Gr andmaster Flash on the Wheels of Steel” is a single released by disc Jockey Gr andmaster Flash home for their artifacts at Cornell. in 1981. It is a live DJ mix recording of Flash scr atching and “Hip Hop’s history and culture is incredmixing records from various groups using three turntables. ibly important and influential, and it was not being collected by other academic libraries at the time,” Reagan said. “Other li- A panel of veteran artists and Cornell fac- mierepicenter for the study and research, braries and archives in the New York City ulty led a dialogue on Hip Hop studies, as well as a reflection, on Hip Hop as a which Richardson genre,” she said. area had turned it The collection, according to Ortiz, aims described as “inspirdown.” to teach all people about Hip Hop history ing.”

Kugelberg and She stated that the and culture from multiple standpoints. Its Conzo’s materials, inmultimedia nature of goal is accessibility and longevity. cluding records, pho“Having a concentration of this material Hip Hop makes this tographs, and hunDeath Row R ecords in an collection unique, in one permanent archive allows students, dreds of event flyers, independent record label that and it could help scholars, researchers, journalists, docuarrived in July 2007. was fou nded in 1991 by The Cornellians explore mentarians, and community members to The collection formalD.O.C., Dr. Dre, Duge K night and broader avenues of learn about Hip Hop history, arts and cully opened in October Dick Griffey. The label became — Dr. Riché Richardson research in multiple ture,” he said. “Not just today, but for gen2008. a senation by releasing multifields. She expressed erations to come.”

Dr. Riché Richardplatinum hip-hop albums by West Coast artists like Snoop The collection contains valuable perthat the collection is son, a professor of Dog and Tupac Shakur. At it’s Literatures in English and Africana Stud- a highlight at Cornell, and she has used it sonal archives from prominent figures peack, Death Row was making in Hip Hop, including filmmaker Charies, recalled the collection’s opening event to great effect within her classes. more than $100 million a year.

“What Cornell has provided is a pre- lie Ahearn, emcee Grandmaster Caz, DJ as a highlight of her first days at Cornell.

“Hip Hop’s history and culture is incredibly important and influential, and it was not being collected by other academic libraries at the time.”

“What Cornell has provided is a premier epicenter for the study and research, as well as a reflection, on Hip Hop as a genre.”

8 T h e I t h a c a T i m e s / O c to b e r 1 1 – 1 7 , 2 0 2 3

of Destiny’s Child and Beyoncé’s early ca- this summer and fall. Governor Kathy Hochul announced the “I LOVE NY Summer reer.

“Seeing those pictures really was a of Hip Hop,” a statewide commemoration very good complement for the biograph- of the anniversary that encompasses mulical work that we had done on Beyoncé tiple events.

Notable celeas well as some brations in westof the major bioern New York ingraphical figures clude Buffalo’s linked to her,” she Beau Fleuve Music said. “It was a very and Arts Celebraimportant visit for tion, the Rochester helping bring the Summer Soul Mutopic to life.” sic Festival WeekRichardson also end, and an exhibit interviewed Beat The Strong Muyoncé’s father, Dr. seum in RochesMatthew Knowles, ter. The Great New and took him to York State Fair will the CHHC for a invite Hip Hop tour. She described headliners old this as a generative and new, featuring and fascinating exSalt-N-Pepa, Ludperience. acris, Doechii, and The CHHC — Dr. Riché Richardson Yung Gravy. Other hosts multiple events are listed on events throughout the year, and interested visitors can find the I LOVE NY website.

As the anniversary passes, the collection promotions online. Richardson encouraged potential researchers to plan ahead prepares for decades to come. It will continue to educate, collaborate, and preserve and get in on the busy schedule.

Aside from the Collection’s events, Hip Hip Hop art and culture.

“A visit to Cornell isn’t complete without Hop enthusiasts can find regional celebrations of Hip Hop’s anniversary throughout it,” Richardson said.

“Having a concentration of this material in one permanent archive allows students, scholars, researchers, journalists, documentarians, and community members to learn about Hip Hop history, arts and culture. Not just today, but for generations to come.”

The Last Poets are sever al groups of poets and musicians who arose from the late 1960’s African-A merican civil rights movement’s black nationalism. The name was inspired by revolutionary South African poet K eor apetse Kgositsile who believed he was in the last er a of poetry before gu ns took over.

Afrika Bambaataa, Def Jam publicist Bill Adler, and more. It centers visual and textual documentation, though it sometimes branches into sound recordings and memorabilia. The preservation of unconventional archival material is a constant goal.

Richardson noted that the collection can and should gather material from a wide variety of sources. Hip Hop culture and history often develops by word of mouth; it varies across the United States and the broader African diaspora. She stated the importance of memory work, where people who engage in Hip Hop can share their firsthand experiences and deliver oral histories.

She expressed that the CHHC can uniquely expand methods of academic research. Its broad scope creates new opportunities for thought.

“I think that makes it more exciting to think about what it means to be a researcher,” she said, “and it will inevitably lead to more outside-the-box thinking or research, and also potentially collaborations.”

Ortiz explained that the collection follows Hip Hop as a living culture. Collection materials come primarily from art-

ists and creators, so the collection should reflect what the community values as it evolves.

“Materials included in the collection should have research value that sheds light on Hip Hop’s creation, consumption, practice, or communities,” he said.

Visitors can consult with the curators and see specific artifacts by request. The CHHC also began digitizing their collection in 2012; many materials are now available on Cornell’s library website.

The CHHC collaborates with various educational units. It offers online and inperson presentations for multiple institutions, organizations, and ages. It also hosts events and exhibitions. In summer 2022, it launched “More Than Reported: Images of Black Women from the Cornell Hip Hop Archives.” Richardson recalled the exhibition as a unique and valuable exploration.

Richardson has used the collection in her course Beyoncé Nation, which she introduced in 2017 and taught again in 2022. Both times, the class visited the collection and used it to research their final projects. They explored rare photographs

Ben Ortiz is the Assistnat Cur ator for the exhibition “It’s Just Begu n” Celebr ating 50 Years of the Hip Hop DJ” at Cornell Univerity. He says that an event about the exhibition will be hosted in November.

(Photo: Michelle LaMorte) O c to b e r 1 1 – 1 7 , 2 0 2 3 / T h e I t h a c a T i m e s

9

Sports

After Sports Some Hall of Famers Find New Life in Front Offices

By Ste ve L aw re nc e

W

hen Cornell introduced its 2023 Athletic Hall of Fame class, I noticed that one of the guys in attendance is among the many the former Big Red players to make a name for themselves in the NFL. J.C. Tretter (class of 2013) was the 25th pick in the NFL draft (Green Bay Packers, 4th round) and he had a very solid career playing for the Pack and for the Cleveland Browns. Now retired as a player, Tretter remains the President of the NFL Players Association.

Several other guys are still making a living in football, including Kevin Boothe, who was a monster in the trenches as an offensive lineman (class of 2005). Kevin was drafted by the Oakland Raiders, then traded to the New York Giants, where he won two Super Bowls (in 2007 and 2011,

both against the New England Patriots).

Kevin now works in the NFL's Marketing department, and makes frequent trips back to his alma mater.

Zac Canty (2009) was a savvy receiver for Cornell, and is now in his 12th season with the Arizona Cardinals, and was recently promoted to the team's Central Regional Scout.

As a lifelong football fan, I have never met anyone who said, “When I grow up I want to work for the NFL and specialize in Analytics.” Well, that's what former Big Red wide receiver Cam Siam is doing for the New York Giants, and the legions of Giants fans in these parts wish that team would return to its 2022 form.

Another team that would love to return to its 2022 form is the Cincinnati Bengals, for whom Ithaca native and Ithaca High School and Cornell alum Andrew Johnson is working as a scout.

Former Big Red player J.C. Tretter is one of many Cornell alums making a living in football. (Photo by Erik Drost)

As part of a smaller-than-usual scouting staff, Johnson is part of a team that built the Bengals into a Super Bowl team, but an early season injury to franchise quarterback Joe Burrow derailed the team early, and it has been a challenge to get things back on track.

Stepping briefly away from the NFL and into the realm of the NCAA, another former Cornell player (and former head coach) Jim Knowles (class of ’87) is now the Defensive Coordinator of the mighty Contin u ed on Page 13

Pack the back-to-school snack loved by generations of students.

Look for our new packaging at your local market.

Find your favorite Polly-O cheeses

10 T h e I t h a c a T i m e s / O c to b e r 1 1 – 1 7 , 2 0 2 3

Polly-O Cheese, Made in New York since 1899

Stand Up is Back to Make You Stand Up and Cheer

“

By LA Bourgeois

When people hear local comedy, they think of their drunk uncle at the barbecue,” says Kenneth McLaurin, local stand-up comedian.

“And that is not what local comedy is. There are a lot of really talented and funny people are out here.” He also runs Comedy on the Commons, a showcase for stand-up comedians that sponsors shows throughout the area.

Back in early 2020, Comedy on the Commons was beginning to hit its stride. Then, the pandemic hit and closed everything down.

Today, the organization is getting back on track. “I'm really excited about where we are,” says McLaurin. “The local community that is interested in comedy is growing. Now we have more people who are interested in hosting, and it's great to have people who are looking for more opportunities to perform comedy.”

This October, Comedy on the Commons and other production companies bring a plethora of stand-up comedy shows to the area. While most showcase local Ithaca comedians, a couple of nationally known comics also command stages around town.

Open-Mic Night at the Deep Dive, Oct. 11 & 25, 6:30-8 p.m. Hosted by Mike Stewart and Andre “Pnut” Williams. Dive into the Ithaca comedy scene with this bi-weekly comedy show featuring diverse local stand-up.

Comedy Uncorked: Trumansburg’s Comedy Nights at Cedarwood Event Venue, Oct. 12 & 26, 7-9 p.m. Hosted by Foxy Goodstone.

On Oct. 12, professional comedians bring the funny to Trumansburg, and on Oct. 26, this open-mic will take you on a journey as comics try out brand new material. The $6 entry fee also gets you a free drink. Try a local favorite like South Hill Hard Cider while laughing at a local comedian!

Sip, Savor, Laugh: Comedy at the Creek with Abe Gatling at Six Mile Creek Vineyard, Oct. 13, 7-9 p.m. Hosted by Kenneth McLaurin. This monthly gathering includes dinner and a show featuring Abe Gatling, a Comedy Central and New York Comedy Festi-

val performer from New York City. Also expect to see rising local comedy stars on this special show.

Tickets start at $20.

Hasan Minhaj at the State Theatre of Ithaca, Oct. 13, 7-11 p.m.This Peabody Award-winning stand-up performs his new show “Hasan Minhaj: Off With His Head” at this popular local venue. Tickets start at $49.50.

Comedy Night with Dan Ahdoot at Ithaca College Emerson Suites, Oct. 16, 7 p.m. This national headlining comedian’s visit to Ithaca is sponsored by the HomburgerJacobs Contemporary Jewish Issues Lecture Series. Free general admission tickets can be obtained through iaujc.org.

Comedy on the Commons Open Mic at the Downstairs, Oct. 17, 7-9 p.m. Hosted by Kenneth McLaurin.

Enjoy laughing with good friends as the up and coming comedians and storytellers of Ithaca take the stage.

Kenneth McLaurin, writer, producer, performer, teacher is Ithaca’s unofficial King of Comedy.

Thursday Night Laughs with Ariel Evans at the Downstairs, Oct. 19, 7-9 p.m. This New York City-based comedian serves up laughter with what she calls “social commentary with family baggage.”

Friday Night Laughs at the Hilton Garden Inn Corning, October 20, 7-9 p.m. Nothing is off limits at this monthly comedy evening held in Corning.

If these comedians have you dreaming of performing, McLaurin teaches stand-up comedy classes through his Comedy on the Commons forum. His next session begins in November.

“The beautiful thing about stand up comedy is people sharing their experiences and the audience receiving it as something new and different,” says McLaurin. “Comedy is a great way for people to share unique experiences in a way that brings people in. That is where the humor is.”

Arts&Entertainment

WHAT’S SO FUNNY!

O c to b e r 1 1 – 1 7 , 2 0 2 3 / T h e I t h a c a T i m e s

11

Arts

11th Annual Little York Fall Fiber Arts Festival

By Staf f Re por t

T

he Cortland Repertory Theatre is announcing its 11th Annual Little York Fall Fiber Arts Festival, to be held on Saturday and Sunday, October 14 and 15. This fine arts and crafts festival will be held in and around the Little York Pavilion in Dwyer Memorial Park at 6799 Little York Lake Road in Preble. It will be hosted by the Board and Guild of Cortland Repertory Theatre, with proceeds benefiting the theater’s seasonal expenses.

The festival hours will be 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. on Saturday, October 14, and

10:00 a.m.

– 3:00 p.m. on Sunday, October 15.

Numerous vendors from New York and The Cortland Repertory Theatre is holding their 11th annual Little York Fall Fiber Arts Festival on Saturday, October 14 and 15. On Saturday the festival will be open neighboring from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., and on Sunday it will be open from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. (Photo: Provided) states will be in attendance. These artisans offer a wide variety holiday decorations, and handmade cloth- candles, maple products, soaps and loof fiber products for sale, including yarn ing items, including sweaters, mittens, tions, photography, and cards. and knitting supplies, raw wool and roving scarves, socks, hats, and shawls. Also availVendors will include representatives for spinning, felting supplies and finished able will be all-natural gift ideas such as from: Alchemist’s Whim, Ancient Threads products, unique jewelry, hand-crafted hand-crafted wooden bowls and baskets, Farms, Art And Function — Ukrainian Handmade, B Bowls, Braider’s Circle, Bouquet of Baskets, Burt’s Peaceful Valley Enterprises, Dan Tracy Designs LLC, European Sheepskins, Ewe-Wooly Yarn Co., Fat Yellow Dog Farm, Felt Goods, GLF Woolens, Glory Felt, Heather’s Fun Creations, Hummingbird Hill Photography & Cards, Knit Buffalo LLC (Sat. Only), Larrabee Farms, Lochan Mor Farm, Marion Lutz, Maslins Gardens (Sat. Only), Namaste Knolls Fiber Arts, Otter Lake Farm & Fiber, RE FORM IT ee, River Marie Design, S & S Syrup, Spinners Hill, Trinity Farm, Twisted Wool and West Creek Family Farm.

There is a $5.00 entrance fee to benefit CRT. Youths 12 years and under are admitted free of charge. The CRT Guild will have a refreshment counter with snacks, coffee, and other warm beverages, as well as light lunch offerings, including hot dogs, sandwiches, and a wide variety of soups.

Whether you are looking for projects for yourself or searching for one-of-akind gifts for your friends and family to make for an exciting holiday season, this festival will indeed have something for everyone. Plus, you can support your favorite local theater in the process. For more information, call Cortland Repertory Theatre at 607-753-6161 or visit www.cortlandrep.org.

GREATER

ithaca

ART trail

12 T h e I t h a c a T i m e s / O c to b e r 1 1 – 1 7 , 2 0 2 3

Oct. 14-15 / 21-22

OPEN STUDIO WEEKENDS

a rt t rail . com

Film

Common Ground Farming is Fertile Ground for Inspiring Documentary

By CD Bura k

Glover are other A-listers who partake in the commentary. f you want to get insights into our An effective approach agricultural practices and how they to contending with toxic impact our lives, as well as the envifertilizers and the indusronment, see Common Ground. It’s an often inspirational, and at times disturbing, trialization of agriculture will require the reversal documentary which won the “Human/ Nature Award” at the Tribeca Film Festival of many current methods.

One approach depicted in June 2023.

The directors, Rebecca and Josh Tickell, in the film is to develop a variation of indigenous have brought together an impressive crew practices. Since large herds of scientists, farmers, actors and other adof Buffalo have been, basivocates of Regenerative Agriculture. I was cally, eliminated, there is an impressed when I met the directors at a Q&A after their first film, Kiss the Ground. effort to bring in herds of cattle. Their hooves break Their creative persistence, along with an up the soil, and their “cowawareness of what is at stake, demonstrate Directors Rebecca and Josh Tickell have followed up their film Kiss the Ground with a Common Ground, a documentary featuring scientists, farmers, actors pies” fertilize it. a laudable reflection on current concerns, and advoctes of Regenerative Agriculture. (Photo by Brandy Crockett) Also, this inspirational such as a new Dust Bowl and a high suidocumentary suggests cide rate among farmers.. universities is also subject to scrutiny. farmers should revisit the methods Common Ground adroitly excrops to replace nutrients in soil; use advocated by George Washington Carver Common Ground makes an assessplores the connection between public earthworms; and eliminate the use of ment about the flow of money which and figure out ways to enhance the policy,farming methods and disease. The pesticides and other toxins. amount of nitrogen in the soil. The ways is provided to people and institutions film features commentaries by scholarly Rebecca Tickell states, in closing, which produce papers and perspectives of Black and indigenous farmers should figures like Dr. Mark Hyman, director that the nature of the problems and which are supportive of the interests of be emulated. Instead, we have to deal of the UltraWellness Center, as well as the significance of the transformaAgro-business. with forced dislocation.

Gabe Brown, the film’s primary farmertions needed will require more than a On the plus side, Leah Penniman, auFor example “In 1920, 925,000 Black advocate of transitioning to toxin-free compelling documentary to effectuate thor of “Farming While Black,” contends farmers owned nearly 50 million acres agriculture. change. that her group has managed to “improve — about 14% " of America’s farmland.”

This documentary takes on another to the indigenous level.” Meanwhile, Currently, less than 1% of US farmers are dimension, as substantive commentaries Woody Harrelson closes with a call — Black. by actors are included throughout. Laura “Let’s prioritize the farmer.”

Let’s look now at the need for reDern, an Oscar winner, narrates. She at Cinemapolis Meanwhile, in closing, here are some sponsible change regarding how the credits her mother’s concern for the envi120 E Green St., Ithaca elements of Regenerative Farming: Stop chemical industry provides substantial ronment as an early inspiration. Woody tilling the soil; plant seeds and us cover amounts of money to researchers and Harrelson, Rosario Dawson, and Donald from Oct. 13-19

I

Common Ground

AFTER SPORTS contin u ed from page 10

Ohio State Buckeyes. Before taking that lofty position, Knowles ran the show at his alma mater from 2004-09, then went on to work on the staffs at Duke and Oklahoma State. (Thanks to former NFL lawyer Buck Briggs — Cornell class of ’76 — for the info.)

The regional dirt-track community got sad news last week, as the wellknown and much-loved Doug (The Junkyard Jet) Worthing passed on six

dietary challenges and a continuous upyears after suffering severe injuries in hill battle for him and his family. Doug what was supposed to be a fun exhibi— a beloved friend, husband, father and tion. grandfather — underwent many chalIn August of 2017, Doug was doing lenging medical tests and procedures, two things he liked to do: Driving a race car and helping a friend. Doug was his family tirelessly supported him through the grueling six years, but it driving a vintage race car in an exhibition race at the Tioga County Fair when was just too steep a hill for his 70 yearold body to keep climbing. an equipment malfunction (a blown In the words of local racing fan Walt radiator hose) sent the car careening off Allen, “Doug was one of the drivers you the track and through a wooden fence. could ask to borrow a part or tool from Doug sustained serious burns and a so you could fix your car and then go race debilitating head injury that resulted against him. I don't think there are too in numerous neurological problems,

many drivers involved in local racing who are as respected as Doug was. Just a few months ago there was a benefit for him in Owego that was attended by more of the racing community than attended the tracks that ran that weekend. One track even changed their scheduled so as not to draw people away from the benefit. That's respect.”

The Owego United Methodist Church will be packed on Friday, October 13th at 11 am, as Doug's 50-plus years in the racing community built a lot of great relationships.

O c to b e r 1 1 – 1 7 , 2 0 2 3 / T h e I t h a c a T i m e s

13

Dining

Stonecat Café Locally-Sourced Food on Seneca Lake is Worth the Trip

By He nr y Stark

W

hen was the last time you had a really good dinner in Hector?

I enjoyed one just last night at The Stonecat Cafe.

It started with soup, listed as a daily special on a wall blackboard. The homemade butternut squash bisque was made with ginger, garlic, apple cider, fennel, and heavy cream. It was mild, rich, and delicious.

I followed the bisque with a Hector Burger ($15) which was delivered rare as I had ordered it and was juicy without being fatty. The beef came from a local, pasture-fed, cow. (Cows, pigs, and chickens are all delivered whole from a local farm and butchered on site.)

The burger was on a lightly toasted sesame bun, topped with a slice of melted New York State cheddar cheese and accompanied by ramekins of ketchup and a very mild, almost bland, garlic mayo.

I can’t remember enjoying a burger so much.

Another dish I enjoyed recently was also a blackboard daily special, Mushroom Fettuccine ($26). The fettuccine was homemade and was accompanied by a generous portion of oyster and shitake mushrooms and a homemade basil pesto.

I have been making my own pesto for years, using traditional basil as well as my own homegrown parsley or peas and Stonecat’s was even better than mine!

Other dishes I recommend are their homemade sausage links with a thin, digestible skin, and catfish.

ITHACA GENERATOR LOOKS contin u ed from page 3

also runs a ceramics business on the side.

“The generator provides me with a creative outlet, and it’s a great place to make friends and have a social connection,” said Stratton. She sells her cups, bowls, and mugs at area markets as part of

Stonecat Café sits in a unique rustic building that used to be a produce roadside stand, Bond’s Farm Stand.

Catfish is offered several ways, always tender and delicious. Thankfully, the head and tail are removed before arriving at the table. The catfish on the sandwich is 4-oz ($14) and lightly coated with a cornmeal breading and served with the same accompaniments as the burger. The catfish entrée ($23) is 7-oz and served over a thin smoked tomato coulis with local beans and greens and their homemade, very fresh, dill coleslaw. You can also order a 7-oz portion of catfish and add your own sides.

I liked the beans and greens, which were local black beans and black-eyed peas and fresh lettuces.

The food here is so good I decided to try a vegan cheesecake ($9). Since it was vegan, cheese was substituted with tofu and it was served over an apricot sauce with a light almond crust. If I didn’t know that it was vegan, I would have thought it was a cheesecake made with cheese. A perfect ending to a lovely meal.

The wine list is barely adequate with only a half dozen wines by the glass ($10$12). The draft and canned and bottled beer list (mostly $7-$8) is interesting and diversified enough to be able to find

several I enjoy. I’ve also ordered one of their three ciders from time-to-time. They remind me of England.

Stonecat Café is a bit different from other restaurants in our area and its features deserve some special attention.

It opened in 1999 (Their 25th anniversary is coming soon.) in a building that used to be a produce roadside stand, Bond’s Farm Stand, and the building itself is interesting.

Upon entering, you’ll be given their menu as well as having your attention being directed to a couple of “Specials” boards. After choosing your meal you’ll be given a small table sign with a number, and you can choose your own table.

There’s lots of space to choose from as the capacity indoors is 70 and outdoors is 95.

Weather permitting, I usually eat outside because I love the view that looks towards Seneca Lake and the ridge line on the west shore. I can see small glimpses of the lake from certain tables. At some tables you might find yourself under a canopy of wild grape leaves that flower in the spring but don’t produce fruit, at others, you can sit outside under an adjustable umbrella. Whichever area you

her business, ANURAN Ceramics. Other members who run businesses include fiber artists and jewelry makers.

“Part of the mission is to support small businesses,” said Paul Anderson, a board member and captain of the woodworking area. Anderson has helped bring in new, safer woodworking equipment and organize the area, which includes table saws, lathe, jointer, and planer.

Captains maintain their areas, introduce and answer questions about equipment, act as mentors, and advise the organization’s leadership team.

Mark Rosen and his partner, Wendy Marvel, are both members and artists.

They moved to Ithaca from Los Angeles, where they were part of an active makerspace. He serves on the board as vice-president and also runs the weekly show-andtell. Marvel and Rosen collaborate on art

14 T h e I t h a c a T i m e s / O c to b e r 1 1 – 1 7 , 2 0 2 3

choose, a lovely sunset could be yours to savor.

Tidbits The restaurant is seasonal: it will be closing for the winter November 12 and reopening is tentatively scheduled for the third week in April around Earth Day. 75% of all the food served comes from within 65 miles of the restaurant and most from less than 10 miles.

Tips are shared. All employees, other than the General Manager, are paid $15/hour….and that includes everyone in the kitchen as well as in the dining room. All tips are pooled and divided equally among all employees, except the General Manager. Traditionally, that has worked out to about $24-$26 an hour for everyone.

There are special events evenings including a live band on Wednesdays and Pasta Night on Thursdays as well as Sunday brunches with live music.

Stonecat Café is approximately a half hour from Ithaca and the experience of dining there is well worth the trip.

Stonecat Café 5315 NY-414, Hector Weds.-Fri. 4-8, Sat. noon-8, Sun. 10:30-3 (607) 546-5000

projects, including a successful business around innovative flip books.

Rosen explained that many makerspaces tend to have a short life. He wants to help mentor and grow Ithaca Generator. “You always need young blood, but you also need an old vet to help shepherd the place,” said Rosen.

“I’m a die-hard maker,” he said. “For a long time, I didn’t have the ability to buy tools. It’s a delight to have a workshop full of smart, creative people.”

CITY 2024 BUDGET COMPLICATED contin u ed from page 4

Ward Alderperson Jorge DeFendini has asked his colleagues on the Common Council to support asking Cornell to agree to an interim deal to contribute $4 million to the City for one year while negotiations on a new longer-term agreement take place.

DeFendini says that this short-term agreement would allow the Common Council to approve a budget without increasing taxes or cutting services and enable Council members to engage with the proposal on its merits without the influence of an incomplete budget.

CORNELL FACULTY OPEN LETTER contin u ed from page 6

As faculty, we are members of the Cornell community. As residents of Ithaca, Lansing, Dryden, Trumansburg, and elsewhere, we are also members of a wider set of communities in Tompkins County. These communities should not be separated based on their well-being and standards of living. But as long as Cornell continues to exempt itself from its social responsibilities, to believe that unlike other major employers and property owners it can set for itself the terms upon which this responsibility is met, Cornell makes our communities separate and decidedly unequal. While Cornell might privately decide to invest in local organizations, this is not equivalent to an investment in the public services and infrastructure under community direction and control that only public governments can achieve.

Expanding public investments is an issue of racial and economic justice.

Many workers, including many who are employed at Cornell, cannot afford PRODUCTION UNDERWRITERS

Air Heart

RALLY CALLS contin u ed from page 5

expertise raised to $200,000 – $250,000 in value by Cornell.”

During the rally, Cornell’s AAUP chapter President, Risa Lieberwitz — who teaches labor and employment law in the School of Industrial and Labor Relations at Cornell — spoke about an open faculty letter calling on Cornell to pay its fair share that has been signed by more than 200 members of Cornell faculty. Lieberwitz said the letter was sent to Cornell University President Martha Pollack. The full letter can be read on page 6.

Lieberwitz also mentioned part of the reason Cornell was granted taxto live in the City of Ithaca and rely on underfunded and inadequate public transportation to get to work. This visible and felt inequality makes it difficult to hire or retain workers of color. An Ithaca in which wealthier academic peers are segregated into overwhelmingly White neighborhoods while Ithaca’s historically Black neighborhoods remain cut off from Cornell’s wealth is not a welcoming environment for faculty or staff of color.

As faculty at Cornell, we take note of the university’s stated commitments to diversity. A robust commitment to diversity requires paying a fair share to the city toward improved public infrastructure and public life. Rather than dispensing financial incentives to individuals that cumulatively yield professional redlining and exacerbate inequality, we call on the university to adopt holistic approaches toward recruitment and retention that involve public investments. Substantially increasing Cornell’s payment through a PILOT (payment in lieu of taxes) would be part of such a change, and could address the displacement experienced by low income and communities of color in HOUSING SPONSOR

exempt status is because of its status as a nonprofit higher education institution with a mission to serve the public’s best interests. That part of serving the public’s best interests involves fairly compensating its host municipality. “There are lots of things Cornell can and should do, but at the very least, it should pay its fair share to the surrounding communities,” Lieberwitz said.

If Cornell has been granted tax-exempt status because of its nonprofit mission to serve the public good, but it can be found that Cornell is failing to live up to that mission by not adequately contributing to the community, is that a sufficient reason for the state to revoke Cornell’s tax-exempt status?

Ithaca while creating more reciprocity between the University and the city.

We call on Cornell to do the right thing and pay its fair share to the City of Ithaca and additional communities affected by Cornell’s presence, including Dryden, Lansing, and Tompkins County. With its $10 billion endowment, Cornell can and should significantly increase its financial contribution to these communities. Cornell should engage in further negotiations to reach a fair agreement.

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR contin u ed from page 7

Broadband has become as necessary as electricity and indoor plumbing, yet many homes in Caroline can’t get it — yet.

It would be a shame if all the work that Mark, Kate, and Tim have done to improve our town is lost, mishandled, or abandoned. Continuity is necessary to see these projects to completion. Since their challengers have nowhere near the experience or accomplishments of the incumbents, we strongly encourage Town of Caroline residents to vote for Mark, Kate, and Tim, and Michele Brown, a new candidate, in November’s election.

Early voting is available at the Ithaca Town Hall (old post office) from Saturday, October 28th until November 5th; and election day voting takes place on November 7th at Caroline Center Church for District One, and at the Brooktondale Fire Hall for District Two from 6 a.m. until 9 p.m.

Please vote for Mark Witmer, Kate Kelley-Mackenzie, Tim Murray, and Michele Brown. Caroline deserves no less.

— Robin Fisher & John L. Cisne

SEASON MEDIA SPONSORS

“Makes the impossible look supremely easy” —Washington Post

tix & info: thecherry.org

oct 19-29 O c to b e r 1 1 – 1 7 , 2 0 2 3 / T h e I t h a c a T i m e s

15