Holiday Gift Guide
This gorgeous yule log cake is the perfect dessert for your holiday table! Chocolate sponge filled with chestnut almond mousse, covered in a smooth chocolate ganache and adorned with meringue woodland mushrooms and real chestnuts.
Finger Lakes Land Trust Purchases Land Bordering Black Diamond Trail
By Maddy Vogel
The Finger Lakes Land Trust (FLLT) has purchased 23 acres of property in the town of Ulysses from the Cayuga Nature Center.
The land consists of a mix of meadows and woodlands and borders the Black Diamond Trail and Houghton Road crossing, according to a press release from the FLLT. The FLLT plans to transfer the land to the New York State Office of Parks, Recreation, and Historic Preservation (OPRHP), which owns and manages the Black Diamond Trail.
The Black Diamond Trail is an 8.4 milelong trail network that connects Ithaca’s Cass Park to Trumansburg’s Taughannock Falls State Park. The FLLT said that the purchase and transfer of land to the OPRHP “continues to be a priority.”
Earlier this year, it was announced that the Cayuga Nature Center would be closing due to significant financial strain that the Paleontological Research Institution (PRI) was facing. The decision led to staff layoffs and dozens of animals being rehomed to employees and other rescue organizations.
At that time, the nature center said the grounds and treehouse would still be open year-round for the public to visit.
The Land Trust said in a press release that the property will provide a “buffer” to the trail. They wrote that the OPRHP is interested in creating a mid-way access point on the property with various facilities, including parking, restrooms and a water fountain.
Regional Director for Finger Lakes State Parks Fred Bonn said that the FLLT’s decision to purchase and transfer the property to the OPRHP will allow the State Parks Office to begin planning for construction of the facilities, which he says is a “critical need” for the trail.
The Finger Lakes Land Trust has purchased a large parcel, which they intend to transfer to the New York State Parks system to create a “buffer” along the Black Diamond Trail. (Photo: Chris Ray/FLLT)
“Again, the Finger Lakes Land Trust has stepped up to support State Parks,” Bonn said. “In this instance, their efforts will enable us to address a critical need for the Black Diamond Trail, namely a mid-point parking lot and bathroom facility like the one currently being constructed at Taughannock Falls. Parks looks forward to acquiring this parcel from the FLLT and then moving into design and construction in the next few years.”
A similar scenario occurred in 2020, when the FLLT transferred a 12-acre parcel of land in the town of Ulysses to
T ake n ote
X Holiday Window Display Competition
November 29 – December 15
Downtown Ithaca
Downtown Ithaca’s businesses will be getting a holiday makeover!
X Downtown Ithaca’s Comfort Food Trail
Discover Downtown Ithaca’s first-ever Comfort Food Trail from December 7 – December 21! Indulge in a variety of delicious food and drinks at participating locations throughout Downtown. For each business where you check in and purchase a featured item, you’ll earn an entry into our Grand Prize: a $250 Downtown Ithaca gift card. Explore the heart of Downtown, warm up with comforting flavors, enjoy festive vibes, and treat your friends or loved ones to something special this holiday season.
X Downtown Ithaca Gift Cards On Sale Now
Gift locally! A Downtown Ithaca Gift Card lets your loved ones explore
X Holiday Winter Bash — Saturday, December 7
Celebrate the holiday season with Downtown Ithaca’s Winter Holiday Bash! This festive one-day celebration will bring joy and cheer to the
OPRHP, which they say now serves as a natural buffer between the trail and New York State Route 89.
FLLT President Andrew Zepp expressed his enthusiasm for the collaboration between the FLLT and OPRHP in this purchase and others in the past.
“This is a terrific addition to the Black Diamond,” Zepp said. “With each passing year, more and more people are getting out to enjoy this multi-use trail. We’re delighted to have the opportunity to work with our partners at State Parks to continue to enhance this outstanding resource.
Starting November 29, storefronts will transform their windows into winter wonderlands for you to enjoy — and vote on. A judges panel will decide first, second, and third places, and you’ll decide the People’s Choice award!
PLUS, the Kitchen Theatre is cooking up holiday delights! Every Comfort Food Trail participant who visits at least one location between December 7 and December 15will receive a Buy One Get One Free coupon to the Kitchen Theatre's Comfort Food show. This delightful and delicious chamber musical, written by Rachel Lampert & Larry Pressgrove, features three short stories about eating, entertaining, engagements, and estrangements. The show runs December 6-8 and 13-15.
our unique downtown shops, dine at amazing restaurants, and experience all that our community has to offer. Buy now and support local businesses!
Commons with two fantastic events designed for the whole family. Join us for Santa’s Arrival when he scales down Center Ithaca and then dance under the stars at our evening Silent Disco.
F
EE lan CE rs :
Adams, G. M Burns, Jane Dieckmann, Charley Githler, Ross Haarstad, Steve Lawrence, Marjorie Olds, Henry Stark, and Arthur Whitman
THE ENTIRE CONTENTS OF THE ITHACA TIMES ARE COPYRIGHT © 2024, BY NEWSKI INC.
All rights reserved. Events are listed free of charge in TimesTable. All copy must be received by Friday at noon. The Ithaca Times is available free of charge from various locations around Ithaca. Additional copies may be purchased from the Ithaca Times offices for $1. SUBSCRIPTIONS: $89 one year. Include check or money order and mail to the Ithaca Times, PO Box 27, Ithaca, NY 14851. ADVERTISING: Deadlines are Monday 5 p.m. for display, Tuesday at noon for classified. Advertisers should check their ad on publication. The Ithaca Times will not be liable for failure to publish an ad, for typographical error, or errors in publication except to the extent of the cost of the space in which the actual error appeared in the first insertion. The publisher reserves the right to refuse advertising for any reason and to alter advertising copy or graphics deemed unacceptable for publication. The Ithaca Times is published weekly Wednesday mornings. Offices are
607-
IN UIRING
PHOTOGR PHER Q A
By Mark Syvertson QUESTION
OF THE WEEK:
“WHAT ’ S A GREAT LOCAL DATE?”
County Announces Plans for Permanent Shelter
By Matt Dougherty
After months of planning Tompkins County officials announced their plans for a permanent homeless shelter during a press conference on November 26.
The shelter will be located at 227 Cherry Street in the City of Ithaca, which is located close to several homeless encampments in the city’s West End. County officials estimate that the shelter will provide 100 beds when it’s complete, an increase from the 26 beds that were provided at the recently closed Saint Johns shelter.
The property was purchased for $1.1 million and the Legislature voted to authorize the land acquisition during their meeting on December 3. The county has allocated $1 million to the Capital Program for the local share of development costs, and will be applying for New York State Homeless Housing and Assistance Program (HAAP) funds of up to $6.1 million.
The county will be working with real estate consulting firm MM Development Partners (MMDA) to manage the development of the shelter, and it will contract with a nonprofit to operate the shelter once it is complete. The county also aims to work with community partners to “explore the possibility of a low barrier approach for this shelter.”
the first time in recent memory,” since the county had previously contracted out that work to Saint Johns.
Legislature Chair Dan Klein said that the permanent shelter would “Significantly strengthen our shelter system [at a time when] hundreds of people experience homelessness in Tompkins County in a given year.”
Klein continued saying, “Nearly one-third of people experiencing homelessness reported returning to homelessness after securing a permanent destination [and] outcomes are worse for young people, people of color, people with disabilities, and people experiencing mental health crises.” He added that the county is working to make sure that homelessness is “rare, brief, and one time,” and that it requires “big thinking, strong partnerships, and investment.”
“We are adding significant capacity today to our emergency shelter system while planning for the future.”
— Lisa Holmes, Tompkins County Administrator
During the press conference Tompkins County Administrator Lisa Holmes said, “We are adding significant capacity today to our emergency shelter system while planning for the future.” She added, “Emergency sheltering is not the only needed solution to homelessness, but it is a core function of our system that needs to be shored up, and part of the County’s responsibilities to serve people experiencing homelessness.”
Holmes highlighted the contributions of Department of Social Services Commissioner Kit Kephart, who she said “has been pivotal in standing up our emergency shelter system in demanding circumstances.” Holmes said, “DSS is the first point of contact for people seeking shelter and assistance programs, [and] they have stood up shelter operations internally for
Liddy Bargar, Director of Housing Initiatives at the Tompkins County Human Services Coalition (HSC) and Staff Lead for the Tompkins County Continuum of Care (CoC) stated, “A proven strategy to ending homelessness for someone is having a place to live — and that is made stronger when community supports are made available and accessible.” She continued saying that the CoC and other local stakeholders will continue to] work together to help make local emergency shelter developments successful.
“This is one piece of a larger puzzle,” said Tompkins County Legislator Travis Brooks, whose district includes the property the shelter will be located on.
get help when they’re ready [and] I see a future where we can do that,” Brooks said. He added that the shelter will help “bring support for people without a place to call home into a more central area, while we hopefully make a dent and reduce the number of people who are homeless and in our system.” Brooks said, “The county will play a significant role in offering resources, but it’ll be our community and the agencies that can do the work and make the biggest difference.”
Tompkins County Legislator Greg Mezey, who chairs the Housing and Economic Development Committee, said that having a facility constructed with the intention of using it as a homeless shelter “will allow us to shelter people close to services [and] even bring many of those services under the same roof as the shelter.”
Mezey said that while the shelter isn’t “the end of the road for addressing homelessness,” Tompkins County is “continuing to explore the possibility of a low-barrier approach for this shelter [and] community partner agencies will be engaged in a process to explore options to lessen barriers to shelter access.”
“This is one piece of a larger puzzle.”
— Travis Brooks, Tompkins County Legislator
Brooks said that locating the shelter close to Ithaca’s homeless encampments is a good idea that will help unhoused residents access shelter and any additional services that might be provided on site. “When people are struggling, they don’t want services scattered all around the community; they want to be able to
Ithaca Mayor Robert Cantelmo stated, “The City is glad to see the progress that the County is making and stands ready to partner and contribute where we can now and in the future. What’s more clear than ever is that we need all the safe, accessible, and supportive places for people to go that we can develop.”
During the press conference, officials also announced that an increased number of beds will soon be available through Continued on Page
“Dinner downtown followed by Sweet Melissas and a stroll on the Commons.”
Cheyenne
“The Inn at Taughanock. Either drinks outside or dinner inside.” – Elizabeth
“You-pick flowers at Indian Creek Farm.”
– Jackie
“A walk along Cascadilla Gorge and dinner at the new Rook.”
– Ryan
“Oysters at Simeon’s. Or hike Buttermilk with a stop at Gimme! Coffee.”
– Suzanne
Tompkins County Administrator Lisa Holmes addresses the media during a press conference on November 26, announcing plans for a new 100-bed permanent homeless shelter at 227 Cherry Street in Ithaca's West End.
LETTERS TO THE EDITOR
RE: Democrats Didn’t Abandon the Working Class
“After a 40+ year unwavering and hostile conservative campaign against workers, women, people of color and their allies that damaged the U.S. Constitution’s separation of powers and Bill of Rights, a convicted felon (aided in three presidential electionsby foreign heads of state intent on neutralizing US threats to their ambitions) gained 49.9% of the popular vote to Harris’ 48.3%.
The Biden-Harris administration and Democratic Party did not betray working families. The post-pandemic American Recovery Plan Act targeted those most in need. Pro-worker, pro-union infrastructure, supply chain, “bottom up middle out,” economic policy brought investment and jobs to Tompkins County and workers in many states. Curbing inflation, bringingprice-gougers to heel, cutting medical expenses through expanded health care access and reduced prescription costs helped US workers avoid a feared
recession. Conservatives? Cuts to Medicaid, Social Security, healthcare, education, SNAP benefits most used in rural red states, and embedded billionaires intent suing to end unions nation-wide.
Today’s political landscape includes a changed playing field, changed rules of truth, and changed definitions of what counts. Decades of conservative attacks on the FCC and expanded conservative media licensed by the federal government but no longer required to adhere to a Fairness Doctrine; consistent and successful efforts to reshape the judiciary and law itself to serve only conservative interests; a successful campaign since 1980 to control every census and every redistricting to the extent that in multiple states, “special masters” drew district lines followingthe 2020 federal census; attacks on climate scientists, higher education and public schools in the name of “religious freedom;” anti-union and antivoter rights laws that continue to this day changed the playing field. An anti-woman anti-abortion campaign that pushed legal abortion out of medical facilitiesinto free standing clinics, created fake side by side “clinics” with no licensed medical provider to lure women seeking abortions, shut down reproductive services where abortions were also offered, bombed abortion clinics, and entrapped, harassed and murdered providers and “culture wars” attacking credentialed scholars
and forcing conservative perspectives down every state education board’s throat changed rules of truth. Election boards and workers attacked and undermined in the conduct of their jobs by zealots who believe elections are fair only when they win changed what counts.
Conservative media buried Biden-Harris’ wins for workers while conservative operatives purged minority voters from voter rolls. Who will benefit remains to be seen.” —
Vivien Rose
RE: Town Planning Board Approves Cornell Synthetic Turf Project
“Dear Ithaca Town Attorney Ms. Brock, Director of Planning of Town of Ithaca
CJ Randall, and New York State Attorney General James,
We are writing to express serious concerns about the inclusion of public speaking during Ithaca Town Planning Board meetings. As happened at a recent meeting (November 19th), placing the public comment period at the very end of the meeting significantly limits meaningful participation, especially when meetings extend late into the evening. Many community members, including those with pressing concerns, cannot remain for hours, which discourages engagement on critical issues.
The November 19th meeting began at 6:30 p.m. and, despite the community’s patience and commitment, was abruptly adjourned at 10 p.m. after 3.5 hours of waiting, leaving no opportunity for public input.
The agenda clearly states Persons to be Heard. The meeting should have followed the agenda, including the designated public comment period. Given that the public comment period was skipped, we urge the Planning Board to hold a Persons to be Heard session specifically for this meeting to allow community input that was denied.
The public was effectively excluded from participating and prevented from voicing their concerns. Furthermore, at that same meeting, the board took an unnecessary 45-minute recess while members of the public—at least six on Zoom and potentially more in the room— were waiting to speak. One member of the public in the chamber brought up this concern to the planning board, only to be rudely interrupted by the chair.
The decision to deny public input at this meeting, while broadcasting Cornell representatives’ industry pitches about synthetic turf on YouTube and allowing a good deal of time for Verizon to comment, undermines the democratic process. In
fact, it is a violation of due process for the Board to have allowed comments from Cornell and Verizon without allowing the public time to respond.
Most citizens present were there to address two critical issues: Zero Waste Ithaca's opposition to Cornell’s toxic plastic turf project amidst an ongoing lawsuit, and Ithacans for Responsible Technology’s opposition to a new large cell tower by Verizon.
This is not the first time Zero Waste Ithaca members and allies have received this kind of treatment at a Planning Board meeting. On July 2, Fred Wilcox, who presided over the meeting, dismissed our petition, which had over 1,200 signatures opposing Cornell University's plan for two synthetic turf fields on its central campus, as “a popularity contest.”
We can only speculate why Mr. Wilcox prefers to delay or outright deny opportunities for the public to speak, but we urge the Ithaca Town Planning Board to reconsider the structure of public comment periods. Allowing community members to speak earlier in meetings or immediately following relevant agenda items would ensure that input is timely, contextspecific, and accessible to a greater number of participants and the public. This adjustment would demonstrate a commitment to transparency, accountability, and fair representation of public concerns.” — Dr. Louise Mygatt, Policy Coordinator, Zero Waste Ithaca
RE: Nuclear Power is a Bad Idea
“The latest push for new nuclear power plants comes from giant tech companies, which want to use nuclear energy for their expanding AI programs. These tech companies promote nuclear power as being a carbon-free energy source, and say that new reactor designs are safe. As we move away from fossil fuel power, they say that nuclear should be part of the mix.
But how safe is nuclear power? A clue is that nuclear power plants are insured, not by insurance companies, but by taxpayers. The cost of insurance would be so high that nuclear plants would not be built, if the government didn’t provide it. The dollar cost, much less the human cost, of disasters such as Chernobyl and Fukushima would be unsupportable.
But nuclear safety has even more problems. High level waste created by nuclear power plants is extremely toxic for hundreds of thousands of years, and
UPS DOWNS&
Ups
The Survival Supply Drive, organized by the Ithaca Tenants Union (ITU) seeks donations to support over 200 homeless households. Needed items include backpacks, sleeping bags, clothing, toiletries, flashlights, and non-perishable snacks. Donations can be dropped off by 8 a.m. on Friday, December 6 at 110 N Geneva St. (downtown) or 521 Hector St. (West Hill). Monetary contributions can be sent via Venmo to @Sarah-Curless with a emoji.
Downs
The first snow of the season has arrived. Don’t forget to shovel your front walkways!
HEARD SEEN&
Heard
Senator Lea Webb and The Solution to Hunger Inc. are hosting the 2024 Holiday Sock Drive from December 2nd to December 16th. The event encourages donations of new, unused socks to support individuals facing housing insecurity. Drop-off locations include: Center for the Arts at 72 South Main Street, Homer, NY 13077, Senator Webb’s Binghamton Office at 44 Hawley Street, Binghamton, NY 13901, and Senator Webb’s Ithaca Office at 17 North Aurora Street, Suite 110, Ithaca, NY 14850.
Seen
On December 3, INHS held a crane installation event on Sears Street in Ithaca to place its first affordable modular home as part of the Community Housing Trust. The event showcased Simplex Homes and welcomed community members, officials, and INHS staff.
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.”
Demand Falls Short for Luxury Senior Housing at Library Place
By Maddy Vogel
Travis Hyde may soon abandon their vision of a strictly 55+ community at luxury senior apartment complex Library Place and transition into “intergenerational housing” as developers struggle to fill empty units.
Despite its recent completion and certificate of occupancy being finalized in June of this year, less than one-third of units in Library Place are currently occupied by tenants. Facing the unexpected hindering impacts of a 55+ age restriction, developers are now seeking approval from the Tompkins County Industrial Development Agency (TCIDA) to drop their age requirement while retaining their tax abatement which was granted in 2019.
Library Place is a mixed-use residential and retail space located at 105 W Court St., where the former Tompkins County Public Library once sat. It has 66 luxury housing units, ranging from one to three bedrooms.
formerly tax-exempt property sat vacant for several years before being sold to Travis Hyde for development into the senior housing complex it is today.
Travis Hyde’s plans to develop the property into a senior housing community were met with significant opposition from community members. Some had concerns about the plans for demolition of the asbestos-ridden and condemned property, while others voiced frustrations that Travis Hyde was pursuing a tax abatement for a project that would not benefit the city’s more vulnerable seniors in need of affordable housing.
“I think that this hopefully, will be considered a reasonable request to help support the project. It’s taken a lot longer than we expected to lease up.”
The project’s Community Investment Incentivization Tax Abatement Program (CIITAP) application was met with further controversy as the city’s requirements for abatements changed before the application was approved.
— Frost Travis
plan, because the city received the CIITAP application prior to Ithaca’s Common Council vote.
Have you started Christmas/ Holiday shopping yet?
57 . 7 % Yes. 42.3% No.
Visit ithaca.com to submit your response.
After the public library moved to its current location on 101 E Green St., the
The city decided in 2018 that developments needed to have at least 20% of units be affordable housing, among other requirements, to be granted a tax abatement. Library Place’s abatement was approved after the city passed this measure, despite having no affordable housing included in the
At the time of the application, the Library Place tax abatement was estimated to save the developers roughly $5.32 million in new taxes but generate about $1.7 million in new property taxes over the 10-year abatement period.
Frost Travis, president of Travis Hyde, approached the TCIDA during their Wednesday, Nov. 13 meeting to request approval from the board to drop the age requirement for prospective tenants, but to still keep the tax abatement.
Travis said that due to rising costs during the project’s delayed construction and “enormous” increases in debt service payments, they were forced to hike rents. Original application documents show Library Place was intended to provide market-rate housing to Ithaca’s senior community.
Rent for a one-bedroom apartment in Library Place ranges from $2,545 to $3,122 per month. Two-bedroom apartments are in the $4,000 range and three-bedroom apartments are in the $5,000 range.
The majority of Ithaca’s population, 74%, are renters. Among those renters, 50% spend more than 30% of their monthly income on rent and 35% spend more than 50% of their monthly income on rent. From 2023 to 2024, the Fair Market Rent for a one bedroom apartment
Library Place is a luxury senior housing complex located at 105 W Court St. in downtown Ithaca. (Photo: Mark Syvterson)
Frost Travis, president of Travis Hyde, approached the TCIDA during their Wednesday, Nov. 13 meeting to request approval from the board to drop the age requirement for prospective tenants, but to still keep the tax abatement.
The Creep State
By Charley Githler
There’s some language, I’m sure, where the word for ‘fiasco’ is the same as the word for ‘opportunity’. [Editor’s note: probably not.] The president-elect’s pledge to dismantle the Deep State and replace it with something else means fiasco/ opportunities galore for anyone with a strong stomach and a malleable spine. As a public service, SBR presents here the general cross-agency application for federal jobs in the New Regime. Good luck!
FEDERAL JOB APPLICATION — ALL AGENCIES
GUEST OPINION
Housing the Unhoused
By Stella Frank
TNAME
POLITICAL REGISTRATION:
JOBS AVAILABLE:
Category A: Toady Lickspittle
Yes-person Stooge
Flunky Bootlicker
Category B: Truckler Fawner
Accessory Aider/Abettor
Lickspittle (Senior Grade) Suckup
NOTE: For all Category B jobs, some pandering, groveling, and flattering may be required outside the scope of standard business hours.
Candidates may be subject to random drug and loyalty tests in the form of being presented with a dixie cup of purplish liquid and being required to drink it without asking questions.
All candidates should be familiar with basic kowtowing and self-abasement.
List all experience at FOX News:
Candidates must further be willing to hit another person in the face with a pie or other soft pastry, or be willing to themselves be hit in the face with a pie or other soft pastry. Facility with the accurate use of a squirting boutonniere desirable, though not required.
List all conspiracies and harebrained ideas to which you subscribe:
List all experience as a circus and/or rodeo clown:
List background, experience and education pertinent to any position in government: (optional)
Estimate the number of allegations of sexual misconduct currently being made against you. (Do not itemize.)
Upload and save completed document to USAjobs.gov, or submit a hard copy to the Ministry of Public Enlightenment, Mar-A-Lago, Florida.
he New York Times article by Dan Barry, “When Tommy Rath Vanished from ‘the Jungle’”, while aiming to shine an honest spotlight on systemic issues, ultimately contributes to inequalities faced by the unhoused. The Jungle refers to informal housing settlements in wooded areas behind major shopping centers in Ithaca, New York. The article details the horrific kidnapping, torture, and disappearance of Thomas Rath, weaving in gruesome details of addiction, poverty, and a mental health spiral all tied in with a larger narrative questioning the ethics of the Jungle’s existence. The article references all of the above as an aspect of “Jungle law”, even though the majority of these crimes took place on, and wouldn’t have been possible without private property.
It is surprising when the article jumps from the abduction of Mr. Rath to a faraway home, his being trapped in a garage and beaten, then held at gunpoint in a car until his ultimate death to the question “In allowing the Jungle to exist, was Ithaca being compassionate or indifferent?”. Seemingly a connection is being drawn between bad things happening to homeless people and the very space they occupy. The “moral obligation” often alluded to for informal housing sweeps shows parallel thinking to the infamous poem “White Man’s Burden” in which a slaveowner and colonizer’s perspective is explained as trying to “save” people who are lost in their ways. The poem portrays that colonizers explicitly neglect their positionality as the oppressor that put the group needing “saving” in this place originally. They instead deflect these ugly attributes as inherent to the oppressed group as opposed to originating from the oppressor.
A stark contrast can be drawn to the Ithaca community’s reaction to the murder of Carol E. Butler, a resident of Cayuga Heights, who was beaten to death
PERMANENT SHELTER
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contracted motel partners for the Temporary Housing Assistance (THA) program. Capacity to serve up to 90 people will be available for THA clients, an increase from the 26 beds at the former THA shelter operated by St. John’s Community Services.
by her adult son in her home in 2009. Her son was found with the dead body holding a cross and a wooden frame, pleading insanity and landing in a mental health treatment facility until he was ultimately found “not responsible by reason of mental disease”. This story was not picked up by the New York Times, in fact, it has very little coverage to this date with articles remaining brief and lacking details compared to the coverage of Mr. Rath’s murder(Associated Press, Hu, Borelli).
Perhaps the author and many like them associate Mr. Rath’s murder so closely with homelessness because it provides a scapegoated solution that can be solved with funding and programs. By associating homelessness with criminality we are given the false solution of punishing the unhoused through forced movement or confinement as somehow alleviating crime. However, this article lacks the nuance that these issues are not exclusive to the poor, and it ostensibly profits off of the disgust, fear, and mysticism the reader will feel when taking in the gruesome details. Further, the level of detail that enables this consumerism akin to the True Crime genre is also made possible by the lack of wealth among the actors involved, as compared to a wealthy family living in Cayuga Heights that can avoid the press and have articles delicately worded in their favor. At the end of the article, the author acknowledges that the uncovering of this crime and the details around it were made possible by the community present within the Jungle. The other homeless individuals served as witnesses and grievers who kept his story alive through the collective awareness of loss. The author claims that the people in the Jungle keep quiet to hide each other's crimes, but it seems as though there was an exceptional amount of vulnerability, detail, and truthtelling by the end of the article.
It was also announced that the temporary Code Blue shelter located at the old Key Bank building on 300 North Tioga Street officially opened on November 25. It was initially planned to open on November 1. The shelter can accommodate up to 50 individuals and the county has hired operations staff and a security firm to ensure safety on site.
By Maddy Vogel & Matt Dougherty
Holiday gift shopping. It’s expensive, stressful, and chaotic for even the most prepared purchasers. To make your purchasing palooza a bit easier this year, the Ithaca Times has compiled a list of gifts that can be bought locally for anyone on your list this holiday season.
Handmade cutting boards made by local woodworker Bill Baker. Based in Ithaca, Baker has been doing woodwork for over 36 years, and it is now his full time profession. Available at Handwork, Ithaca's Artisan Cooperative. Prices vary.
Finger Lakes themed decorative etched cutting board, available at American Crafts by Robbie Dein for $65.
Pet themed mugs and dishware, with dogs and cats of all breeds, colors and sizes. Created by Donleavy Pottery and Karen Donleavy Designs. Custom work is available if you provide a photo of yourpet to the artist. Available at Handwork, Ithaca’s Artisan Cooperative, prices vary from $38-45 for mugs.
Nature-themed pottery ornaments, made by Trumansburg Artist Julie Johnson. Available at Handwork, Ithaca's Artisan Cooperative for $22 each.
Colorful and creatively designed mugs and pottery, created by Brooktondale Artist Gina Inzinna. Her work is inspired by maximalist atmospheres and body positivity. Pottery is handmade and involves sculpture, carving, marbling, glazed layering and hand painting. Available at Handwork, Ithaca's Artisan Cooperative prices vary from $48-$86.
Mozaic picture frames and coasters created with glass from the shores of Cayuga and Seneca Lake by Watkins Glen Artist Andrea Eschler. Available at Handwork, Ithaca's Artisan Cooperative. Coasters (set of 4) $52, picture frames $50-$52.
Needle felted handmade figurines by Colleen McKenzie. Available at Handwork, Ithaca's Artisan Cooperative. Prices vary.
Contact Yatsoko at https://www.givingtreearts.com/
Pruning Shears on sale for $18.99 each at HomeGreenHome on the Commons. Perfect for any indoor or outdoor garden setup and promised to last a lifetime.
Indulge in Theo’s organic and fair-trade chocolate bars, available at HomeGreenHome in delicious flavors like Coffee Toffee, Hazelnut Crisp, Salted Almond, and Brown Rice Quinoa Crunch. Each bar is priced at $4.95. Stay fresh naturally with SallyeAnder Deodorant Stones, offering all-natural odor protection. Handmade in New York since 1982, these stones provide an eco-friendly and effective alternative to conventional deodorants. Available at HomeGreenHome.
multi-colored vegan leather handbags with metal hardware
black contrast stitching. Available at Envious
Handbags for $75. Collaged book sculpture of the Ithaca Farmers Market and other iconic Ithaca landmarks, created by Teresa Bakota Yatsoko. Custom book sculptures are available with photos of loved ones. Available at Handwork, Ithaca’s Artisan Collective for varied prices. Farmers market sculpture — $175, Dog Park sculpture — $95.
Illuminate your space with Sunbeam Candles, crafted from 100% pure beeswax. These eco-friendly, handmade candles are available in various sizes, such as the $24.99 3×4 pillar and the $20.99 2×6 honeycomb style. Perfect for creating a warm and sustainable ambiance. Available at HomeGreenHome.
Enhance your space with Se Witch Botanicals’ aromatherapeutic incense, available in unique scents like Quoth the Raven, Hermitage, and White Lodge. Paired with beautifully designed incense holders, these handcrafted items add a touch of serenity and style to any room. Available at HomeGreenHome.
A bag you can make yourself, which makes it the perfect gift for any crafter or anyone who wants to give a handmade gift. All materials necessary for constructing the bag are included in the $25 kit at Envious Vegan Handbags.
Bluebell style vintage earth-toned backpack, made of faux vegan leather with detachable and adjustable back straps. Available at Envious Vegan Handbags for $85.
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Durable and eco-friendly stainless steel containers from Onyx Inc., perfect for sustainable food storage and on-the-go meals. Available in various sizes and designs to suit your needs. Available at HomeGreenHome.
Classic Ouija $32.99. However you say it! It always spells FUN! The Spirit world awaits! Wait until night, dim the lights, gather around and ask a question. The Mystifying Oracle will answer your questions from the great beyond! Availavle at Riverwood.
Jenga $19.99. Classic Jenga Game with Genuine Hardwood Blocks, Stacking Tower Game for 1 or More Players, A Jenga Brand Game for Kids Ages 6 and Up. Available at Riverwood.
Catan: Explorers & Pirates Expansion $59.99. Expand your Catan empire with this swashbuckling adventure! Easy to learn with a five-step introduction course, Explorers and Pirates will make you wonder what took you so long to hit the high seas! Requires original Catan game to play. Available at Riverwood.
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Star Wars The Vintage Collection: Poe Dameron X-Wing Fighter Vehicle $119.99. Available at Riverwood.
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Pendleton Terry cloth robe $179. Luxurious cotton terry velour robe from Pendleton. Beautiful striking colors, and an ultra comfortable eco-friendly fabric. Available at Benjamin Peters.
Star Wars The Black Series: Rey and D-O Figures. $29.99. Available at Riverwood.
Bob Ross — 8" Clothed Action Figure — Bob Ross. $49.99. Available at Riverwood.
Bespoke Shirt handmade right in the shop by Thane Zrongo. $250-350.
A Place of Opportunity, No Shortcuts
“ Take hold of your life. There are no short cuts. Every person in their lifetime gets an opportunity, and you have to be alert to grab it…”
These wise words are from a William George Agency (WGA) alum named Sean,* who nearing ninety would like WGA residents to benefit from what he’s learned.
“I spent two years [at WGA] and often think I could have taken more advantage, but I had a laid back attitude and took everything for granted. But, I enjoyed every minute and learned a lot of good habits, and soon found out you have to work and earn your way No short cuts.”
WGA’s living-learning environment has been providing young people access to opportunities since its founding in 1895.
“Our number one aim has always been about improving the immediate circumstances and long-term success of youth in need, with the added value of being able to help families and the broader community in the process,” says Helen Hulings, Executive Director of The William George Agency for Children’s Services.
A s s o c i e t y e v o l v e d , s o, t o o, d i d W G A o v e r t i m e . I t changed its name, added amenities on its campus through d o n o r c o n t r i b u t i o n s , e x p a n d e d u s e o f e v i d e n c e - b a s e d treatments, and added services to provide opportunities for historically underserved youth.
“ Through it all, our youth services work was and remains guided by our organization’s founding principles of selfd e v e l o p m e n t , e n c o u ra g e m e n t o f i n d i v i d u a l e ff o rt , s e l fdetermination, and contribution to society,” says Hulings.
Youth are referred to WGA’s out-of-home services for a variety of reasons, including to deter risky behavior or to r e m o v e y o u t h f r o m h a r m f u l e n v i r o n m e n t s , a w a y f r o m destructive influences. Once on campus, they learn that their past does not define their future. They also learn that their perspective, choices, and quality of relationships directly influence their wellbeing and life outcomes. “ E v e r y y o u n
participates in one of our specialized programs has experienced trauma in some capacity,” says Hulings. “Our job is to provide skilled support, a safe, s t r u
opportunities for them to tap into their p
heartwarming to see a child blossom in treatment and start to find their way and repair relationships.”
For some residents, showing selfrestraint and emotional maturity in the face of old triggers is a step towards becoming their best self.
For other residents, realizing their potential starts by achieving sobriety for the first time.
“Some people think [using drugs] is a way out,” says Sean. To him it ’ s a waste of one’s life. “Life is hard enough, don’t make it harder. There is always a better way… ”
Still others begin to tap their potential through gaining employable skills at one of WGA’s vocational sites.
“I, for one, know an education is great but we all can’t be doctors and lawyers… I know people who are electricians, carpenters, painters, and truck drivers that make a good salary and made a good life. The answer is that no matter what you’re good at, be the best… don’t give up,” says Sean.
In all cases, the journey starts with a willingness to learn. And that ’ s a characteristic Sean can appreciate.
“Do the best you can at whatever it is and quickly learn,” is his advice to anyone who will listen. “ You have one mouth, two ears. Use the ears first, and know when using the mouth, you can never learn anything if you’re always talking.”
*name changed for privacy. The William George Agency for Children’s Services is committed to providing a safe and c a r i n g r e s i d e n t i a
r
v e n , therapeutic, clinical and medical care for at-risk youth. For m o r e i n f o r m a t i o n , v i s i t t h e i r w e b s i t e : www.wgaforchildren.org.
Inside a cottage on the WGA campus. A Holiday Cottage Appeal is held annually between Thanksgiving and year-end to help make the campus festive and provide a special gift and meal during the holiday season. Contributed photo
Diving In
Ithaca College’s Swim and Diving Team Looking for Continued Success
By Steve Lawrence
At the (roughly) halfway point in the season, the Ithaca College women’s swimming and diving team is sitting at 5-1, and head coach Mike BlakelyArmitage likes his team’s chances to win the conference championship for the sixth consecutive year. In Mike’s words, “We have a lot of depth, but we still need to do the work.” Using a metaphor relevant to rural Upstate New York, the coach added, “The hay is not in the barn, so to speak.”
Blakely-Armitage was a swimmer at Ithaca College long before taking the helm of the program. Now in his second year as the head coach, Mike explained, “I worked for four years as an assistant after graduating (in 2000), then left for a while, came back in 2019 as a full-time Associate Head Coach and then took over two years ago, so this is actually my tenth year.”
I asked Blakely-Armitage if and how injuries are a factor in swimming, and he said, “In swimming, a lot of the injuries are due to overuse. We have a very competent athletic trainer in Carolina MacQuarry, a very solid strength and conditioning coach in Andy Parker, and most of the athletes are pretty good at taking care of their bodies — much better than when I was competing.”
That “taking care of their bodies” component is more significant as the season progresses, as the conference championships are several weeks away — toward the end of February — and the NCAAs will be held in March.
For some college athletes the NCAAs are a predictable progression... You work hard for many years, put yourself in a position to reach the pinnacle of your sport, get the job done, and then graduate and move onto the next chapter of your life.
For the Bomber’s Kailee Payne, the diver’s
progression followed the first three steps — in fact, the senior diver won not one but two national championships — but rather than close that chapter and move on, Kailee returned to South Hill for her senior season.
At the end of her junior year, Payne — a graduate of Ithaca High — stood atop the podium twice at the NCAA Division III championships, having won both the 1-meter and 3-meter competitions. I asked Blakely-Armitage about Payne’s journey from a diver growing up down the road in Owego, to an Ithaca High athlete, to a collegiate diver at Marshall, to a transfer national champ for the Bombers, and he said, “Kailee is a homegrown talent who has benefited from some really good coaching.”
Mike added, “Chris Griffin — who handles 99.9% of our diving duties and who has built one of the best diving programs in Division III — has been working with Kailee since she was in Middle School, and they have a really good relationship.”
Payne agreed: “During my freshman season in high school, my coach relocated, and I came across the Ithaca Dive Clinic, run by Coach Griffin, and I committed to transfer to Ithaca High.” After graduating, Kailee enrolled at Marshall University, but trained with Griffin whenever she could. In Payne’s words, “It was a dream to come to Ithaca and
work with the coach and the team, and I was so pleased when the stars aligned.”
As for following up on her two national titles, Kailee said, “I know I’m capable, and I train my butt off,” and she said that her “over-thinking brain” sometimes lets the expectations of others creep in. She said, “I understand that people care, and they just want me to do well.” As for her own expectations? “I just want to perform, and put on a show. I know ‘a successful season’ will end with me walking away knowing I had fun, and I did as much as I could to help the team.”
Two time national champion Kailee Payne came back to Ithaca College for another season. (Photo: Ithaca Athletics)
Hearing Health is Key to Aging Well
By The Timeless Hearing Team
Hearing Health is Key to Aging Well
As we age, we naturally focus on staying healthy by doing things like eating right, exercising, and taking care of our mental well-being. But one crucial aspect of health often gets overlooked: our hearing. It can be easy to dismiss minor hearing issues as a normal part of aging, but the truth is, hearing health plays a vital role in how we experience the world. From maintaining strong relationships to keeping our minds sharp, hearing health is fundamental to aging well.
The Link Between Hearing and Cognitive Health
A growing body of research shows that untreated hearing loss is linked to cognitive decline, including an increased risk of dementia. The reason? When your hearing isn’t functioning properly, your brain has to work harder to process sounds, which can lead to fatigue and cognitive strain. Over time, this can a ect memory, focus, and other cognitive abilities. Additionally, poor hearing can make you less likely to participate in conversations or mentally stimulating activities, both of which are crucial for maintaining mental sharpness.
Communication Is Key to Connection
Communication is at the heart of human relationships, and staying connected is essential for emotional well-being, especially as we grow older. It’s how we bond with family, make friends, and stay involved in our communities. Hearing loss, especially when left untreated, can make everyday interactions more di cult.
Conversations become frustrating when you can’t catch every word, and you may nd yourself withdrawing from social situations out of embarrassment or discomfort. The result? Isolation. Research shows that untreated hearing loss leads to a higher risk of depression and anxiety, largely due to the social seclusion that often accompanies hearing di culties. Constantly straining to hear, or missing parts of conversations, can also lead to frustration and a diminished sense of self-esteem.
By addressing hearing issues, you can avoid the emotional strain that comes with poor hearing. This boost in emotional well-being plays a key role in mental health and resilience as you age.
Safety and Independence
It’s easy to overlook how much we rely on our sense of hearing to stay safe in our daily lives. Missing important
sounds, like an alarm going o , someone calling your name, or the sound of footsteps behind you, can lead to dangerous situations. Additionally, hearing loss can make it harder to detect hazards in your environment, from tra c noise to approaching weather conditions. Whether you’re walking down the street, crossing a busy intersection, or simply enjoying time at home, good hearing makes navigating the world around you safer.
Without good hearing, it can be di cult to hear emergency alert or warning sounds, which can put your safety at risk. Research shows that people with hearing loss are more likely to su er from falls or accidents, especially when they are unable to hear important environmental cues. Protecting your hearing ensures that you maintain your independence, mobility, and ability to respond quickly to potential dangers.
The Bigger Picture: Quality of Life
All these bene ts – better communication, sharper cognitive function, improved safety, and emotional stability – add up to one thing: a higher quality of life. By maintaining good hearing health, you ensure that you can continue enjoying the activities and relationships that bring joy and ful llment. Studies show that older adults who address hearing loss tend to lead more active, satisfying lives. They stay engaged in social activities, have stronger family bonds, and report higher levels of happiness.
For anyone looking to age well, hearing health is a critical piece of the puzzle. The ability to hear well keeps you connected to the people and experiences that make life rich and meaningful. Take action by calling one of our o ces for a complimentary hearing checkup!
Timeless Hearing (Ithaca, NY): (607) 327-4711
Cortland Hearing Aids (Cortland, NY): (607) 327-4712
Timeless Hearing (Skaneateles, NY): (315) 800-0616
Southern Tier Audiology (Elmira, NY): (607) 327-4714
Tri-City Hearing (Vestal, NY): (607) 327-4713
Ashley Hardy grew up in Cortland in a family with hearing loss and knows the impact communication can have on quality of life. She received her Bachelor’s in Human Development from Binghamton University in 2004 and has over 20 years of experience as a hearing aid dispenser.
Critical Food Recalls Every Consumer Should Know
By Matt Dougherty
Consumers in Ithaca, New York, have been urged to exercise caution following several food recalls linked to contamination issues.
The recalls include products ranging from organic vegetables to ready-to-eat meat and poultry, highlighting concerns over food safety regulations and corporate practices that prioritize profitability over consumer protection.
Widespread Food Recalls:
Organic Carrots
Grimmway Farms has recalled multiple sizes and brands of organic carrots due to potential E. coli contamination. The products, sold at local retailers such as We-
gmans, Trader Joe’s, Tops, Walmart, Target, Aldi, and GreenStar Food Co-op, have been linked to a multi-state outbreak. Consumers should check their pantries and discard affected products immediately.
Cucumbers
SunFed Produce, LLC issued a recall for whole fresh American cucumbers distributed across 26 states, including New York, after Salmonella contamination was detected. Sold between October 12 and November 26, 2024, the cucumbers can be identified by the “SunFed” label or a sticker reading “Agrotato, S.A. de C.V.”
Ready-to-Eat Meat and Poultry
Yu Shang Food, Inc. recalled approxi-
William Jane Dispensar y
The carrots have been linked to an outbreak of E. coli from bagged organic whole and baby carrots supplied by Grimmway Farms. To date, 39 cases of E. coli have been reported, with 5 cases reported in New York State, including one from Tompkins County.
mately 72,240 pounds of ready-to-eat meat and poultry products due to potential Listeria contamination. These products were distributed nationwide, including to retailers in New York. Consumers are advised to look for the establishment numbers “P-46684” or “EST. M46684” on the USDA mark of inspection and avoid consuming the affected items.
Ground Beef
Wolverine Packing Co. recalled over 160,000 pounds of ground beef due to E. coli concerns. The contaminated beef was primarily distributed to restaurants but could have reached consumers in prepared dishes. Health officials recommend cooking ground beef to an internal temperature of 160°F to eliminate harmful bacteria.
Food safety experts advise consumers to take the following steps to reduce the risk of illness:
Check Recall Alerts: Regularly monitor updates from the FDA and USDA websites, as well as local health departments.
Inspect Purchases: Review labels and establishment numbers to identify recalled products.
Handle Food Safely: Wash hands, utensils, and surfaces thoroughly after handling raw foods, and cook meat to recommended internal temperatures.
Report Illness: If you experience symptoms like diarrhea, vomiting, or fever after consuming recalled products, contact a healthcare provider and report the illness to local health authorities.
The scale of these recalls highlights the risks associated with corporate consolidation in the food industry. A handful of companies dominate production and distribution, creating vulnerabilities in the supply chain. Contamination at a single processing plant can lead to widespread
outbreaks, as products are distributed nationwide.
For example, the top four beef companies in the U.S.—Cargill, JBS, National Beef, and Tyson—control 85% of the market, centralizing operations to a degree that even minor lapses in safety protocols can have catastrophic consequences. This consolidation often prioritizes efficiency and cost-cutting over consumer safety. With limited competition, companies have fewer incentives to innovate or maintain rigorous food safety standards.
Deregulation further compounds the issue, weakening oversight by agencies like the USDA and FDA. Budget cuts and policy shifts have reduced the frequency of inspections and allowed companies to self-regulate in some cases. Some argue that this self-policing system creates conflicts of interest and compromises food safety.
A recent example includes the listeriosis outbreak linked to Boar’s Head, where lax sanitation practices were reportedly ignored due to insufficient oversight. With weakened regulatory frameworks and increasing corporate consolidation, the responsibility often falls on consumers to protect themselves. Public health advocates emphasize the importance of education and awareness but stress that systemic changes are necessary to prevent contamination at its source.
Organizations such as the Center for Science in the Public Interest advocate for stronger regulations, increased funding for inspections, and improved transparency in supply chains. These measures could help restore consumer confidence and reduce the frequency of recalls.
For the latest updates on food recalls, visit the FDA’s website or contact the Tompkins County Health Department.
Flower Prerolls Vapes Concentrate Edibles Tinctures
The Nutcracker, A Holiday Ballet
By Ross Haarstad
Alacy crown is the top choice of the young girls flocking to Ithaca Ballet’s merch table in the spacious lobby of the Smith Opera House in Geneva, NY.
’Tis the season, as families stream in on the first day of December for the annual offering of The Nutcracker, Tchaikovsky’s beloved holiday ballet happening in cities large and small across the nation: all pointe shoes and sparkling tutus, magic Christmas trees, dancing toys, a grand battle of mice and tin soldiers, the Land of Sweets and a Nutcracker Prince come to life in the dreams of young Clara.
Earlier that Sunday the lobby was full of dancers draped around folding chairs, tables, spilling across the swirling patterns of the red and gold carpet, from the youngest playing the children and lambs to the teens and adults playing the lead roles, most of whom had grown up with the show, moving into ever more challenging parts as their technique and bodies expanded. Some stretched, some chatted, others offered massages, a number of teens sported earbuds. A mix of tights, leotards, yoga pants, t-shirts, leg warmers gave off a casual Chorus Line vibe.
They had just one rehearsal in the space under their belts from the previous afternoon. Now Cindy Reid, Ithaca Ballet’s Director, trim and energetic in red sneakers—looking more volley ball coach than the stern stereotype of
Ballet Mistress,—was circumnavigating the various clumps, rattling off a series of notes (a rushed entrance, snap into that battement, etc.). She comes to the group of lambs to remind them to make sure they get fully offstage, “remember if you can see the audience, they can see you,” a familiar mantra she later gives the whole corps. And she urges them into a “full tilt boogie” off the stage on their many exits.
At 9:30 they assemble for an hour-long warm-up, as the sun streams through the lobby doors, working through all the five classical positions, as well as tendus, port de bras, pliés, pas de bouree, etc.—using chair backs, railings, tables and walls in place of the barres in their classroom. Cindy offers small corrections. It is a reminder that for all the flash on stage, ballet is also a deeply athletic venture, requiring years of training. The warm-up has its own peculiar beauty, a multi-aged ensemble breathing with the same language of movement.
Two months of rehearsal has gone into this year’s show, the final one just two days prior to Thanksgiving, in the studio on North Plain Street. No wingspace in the studio, as they worked through Tchaikovsky’s intoxicating variations (“Chocolate, Tea, Candy Cane…), the next group would plaster themselves against the walls, while waiting dancers were framed in the picture window on the studio’s half balcony like holiday window shoppers.
Before the dancers traipsed in Sunday morning, tech was at work in the shadowy auditorium, blaring rock being the choice over classical for the moment. The backdrops were already hung, the fireplace moved onstage. Jesse Koennecke—in charge of the flies—helped stage manager Courtney McGuire and props manager Janet Olsen anchor the Christmas tree illusion. Jesse reflects that this is his thirteenth season on crew—like most of the
& Entertainment
Dancers from the Ithaca Ballet prepare for their roles in The Nutcracker, rehearsing under the gilded arches of the Smith Opera House in Geneva, NY.
With its blend of timeless music, vibrant sets, and dazzling performances, The Nutcracker offers a nostalgic and magical experience, reminding audiences of the joy and wonder of the holiday season.
Angelhearts Diner: A Cozy Vegan Eatery
By Henry Stark
The Angelhearts Diner is different from most Ithaca area dining establishments so this review is going to be a bit different to properly reflect its character.
To start, I don’t relate to the word “Diner” in its name because in my younger days a diner was a long cigar shape metallic exterior featuring a long counter with bar stools and every table had its own individual juke box. Most diners were open 24/7 and served breakfast, lunch and dinner all day and featured extensive menus.
Ithaca’s Angelhearts Diner is a rectangular, boxy shape, the same as its predecessor, Napoli Pizzeria. It’s part of a retail complex, doesn’t have a counter, is only open until 2:00 p.m. and therefore doesn’t serve dinner. It has one of the most limited menu offerings in our area with Its main distinction being that 100% of the food it serves is tailored for Vegans.
When I remark that the menu is limited it’s because there are only two entrées offered at lunch, both “Sandwiches”. Breakfast, which is served “all day” isn’t much more extensive with only seven major possibilities.
The interior is cheery, with pendant and recessed lighting, aqua chairs, white tables, and the floor is covered with large black and white squares. There’s room for less than four dozen diners.
Since there are only two entrées I think it would be more helpful to write about its rather unusual method of operation than dwelling on the food.
There is no table service: you are asked to pick up a menu by the register or check out the overhead backlit menu to make your choices. There’s only one dining room staff member and she will take your order at the register and give you a number. You will have to pay before she will place the order. All the breakfast and lunch entrées cost between $10 and $16. When your meal is ready, she calls out your number and you then return to the register to collect your meal along with some small, thin paper napkins, and a plastic fork, knife and spoon. The food is served on paper in a small aluminum tray.
establishments and then proceed down a hallway and find one of the two unisex (“anyone”) restrooms.
On my visits, there was a soup of the day which is served in a cardboard cup ($4) or bowl ($6). Recently the homemade soup was roasted butternut squash which was so spicy I gave it to my dining companion who obtained a cover and took it home to mix with and be diluted with a squash soup she was making. The cashier agreed that it was very spicy.
DENTAL Insurance
A general personal comment: regular readers of these reviews will know I refer to myself as a card-carrying omnivore so I don’t normally choose a vegan restaurant when I’m not reviewing however I really enjoy the food here even though there were so few choices. Had I not known I had ventured into a vegan establishment I might not have known where I was.
Lunch will definitely not be served before 11:30. Of the two available entrées, both “sandwiches”, I chose The Philly which was a hearty roll consisting of house made seitan shreds, mushrooms, and grilled onions and peppers all topped with a cashew cheese sauce. I enjoyed it.
On another visit, I chose one of those seven breakfast entrées, Western. It arrived on a “buttered” biscuit and included a plant-based egg substitute patty, grilled peppers and onions, dairy free cheddar, chipotle aioli and a plant-based bacon. Again, lots of food and very tasty. I enjoyed this too.
Beverages: There’s nothing alcoholic so no wine, beer, or cocktail menus. They have lots of coffee, espresso, tea and juice possibilities and a strawberry mango banana or a blueberry mango banana shake ($9).
Despite their limited offerings and lack of resemblance to old-time diners, Angelhearts Diner is providing a valuable dining alternative to an important niche cohort in Ithaca.
LETTERS TO THE EDITOR
continued from page 5
The restroom set up is a bit unusual too. You have to ask the cashier for a seven-digit numbered code and then completely exit the premises, put the code into a wall electronic gismo used by other retail must be isolated from the biological environment for that time. Disposal in deep geologic formations is proposed, but has not yet been implemented. So far, high level nuclear waste is stored on site at the plants. There it is subject to escape by war, disaster, or human error. Nuclear waste could also be used by terrorists in dirty bombs to contaminate large areas. The more nuclear power plants there are, the more such waste is produced, at more storage locations. Nuclear power plants can also be used by governments to provide material for nuclear weapons.
Nuclear power plants are prime, dangerous targets in wartime, as has been shown in Ukraine. They are large, centralized,vulnerable facilities.
Meanwhile, uranium ore must be mined, creating many thousands of tons of waste. Uranium is a non-renewable fuel and will become more expensive as easy sources are used up. In the US, uranium mines are often sited on or near Native tribal land, with attendant pollution.
In addition to the damage they cause, mining operations use fossil fuels. Fossil fuels are also used in construction, fuel transport, and nuclear plant decommissioning.
Finally, nuclear power plants are very expensive, and take many years to come online. Any money tied up in nuclear energy cannot be used for truly green sources like wind and solar. Thus, new nuclear power plants will actually delay the transition to a healthy, climate-smart future.” — Brian Caldwell
Angelhearts Diner is a cozy vegan eatery in Ithaca offering a vibrant atmosphere and plant-based breakfast and lunch options in a modern, cheerful setting.
Dorothy Cotton Jubilee Singers Present
“A Feast of Carols” Winter Concert
By Staff Report
The Dorothy Cotton Jubilee Singers (DCJS) will celebrate the holiday season with their winter concert, “A Feast of Carols,” on Sunday, Dec. 8, at 4 p.m.
The event will take place at Ford Hall on the Ithaca College campus, featuring an afternoon of traditional and contemporary carols, highlighted by the world premiere
of Lena McLin’s The Christmas Cantata.
Admission to the concert is free, with donations gratefully accepted. A community reception will follow in the lobby, providing attendees with the opportunity to meet the performers and celebrate the season together.
Led by Founding Director Dr. Baruch Whitehead, the ensemble will be accompanied by a live orchestra and soloists for
Members of the Dorothy Cotton Youth Singers captivate the audience with a spirited performance at the “A Feast of Carols” concert, featuring the world premiere of Lena McLin’s The Christmas Cantata.
continued from page 6
in Ithaca has increased by 12.4%, from $1,276 to $1,434.
Travis explained to the IDA that originally, Travis Hyde had thought that the age restriction for Library Place would create more demand for the apartments, but it has had the opposite effect. The restricted tenant pool has led to a slow lease-up and impacted the financial stability of the project.
Travis Hyde aims to expand the tenant pool to renters of all ages while still keeping their tax abatement to improve the financial stability of the project. Lifelong, an organization that developers partnered with to expand senior services, has provided a letter of support for removing the age restriction.
“I think that this hopefully, will be considered a reasonable request to help
support the project,” Travis said. “It’s taken a lot longer than we expected to lease up.
Some of that, of course, is the rent cost which is driven by the need to service the debt, so it’s a little bit of a double bind.”
At a Common Council meeting earlier this year, Director of Planning and Development for the City of Ithaca Lisa Nicholas outlined the challenges that developers face when creating market-rate housing, attributing rising cost of land to the rise of luxury housing in the city.
“Projects that are ready to go may face setbacks due to fluctuating construction costs,” Nicholas said. “Developers, particularly for market-rate projects, need assurance of a viable return, which can be affected by rising financial risks.”
The TCIDA is set to vote on Travis’ proposal at their next meeting on Wednesday, December 11 at 2:30 p.m. in the Tompkins County Legislative Chambers
McLin’s cantata, offering a rare and moving experience. The performance will also include the Dorothy Cotton Youth Singers, showcasing the talents of young vocalists from the area.
The DCJS was founded to preserve and share the legacy of Negro spirituals while promoting messages of unity and social justice. Named in honor of Dr. Dorothy Cotton, the group pays tribute to the civil rights pioneer who served as Education Director for the Southern Christian Leadership Conference alongside Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Cotton, a longtime Ithaca resident, was an advocate for equality and empowerment through education.
The Dorothy Cotton Jubilee Singers, under the direction of Dr. Baruch Whitehead, deliver a powerful rendition of traditional and contemporary carols during their winter concert, “A Feast of Carols,” at Ithaca College’s Ford Hall.
engaging younger generations in the preservation of cultural and musical traditions.
The Jubilee Singers have become a cultural staple in Ithaca and beyond, performing at venues such as the Kennedy Center and Carnegie Hall. Their repertoire focuses on Negro spirituals, a musical genre rooted in African American history and resilience.
This year’s winter concert brings together a blend of familiar holiday carols and lesser-known works. The inclusion of the Dorothy Cotton Youth Singers further underscores the group’s commitment to
THE NUTCRACKER
continued from page 17
crew (including a half dozen on wardrobe) he began as parent of a ballet kid. This is his first season without a child on the stage.
The sense of history, of generations surrounds the Ithaca Ballet’s Nutcracker, a half century tradition of their own—which folds further back into time. Most of the painted drops and colorful costumes were created by the organization’s first Ballet Mistress and then long-time Artistic Director, a whirl of energy named Alice Reid, mother to Cindy and to choreographer Lavinia Reid. Others have added their touches, but as Lavinia exclaims about the rich burgundies, deep greens and camel browns of the party scene, “those are Alice Reid colors!”
Cindy spent years in the role of Sugar Plum fairy, before leaving for other professional work, and returning to lead the
Ford Hall at Ithaca College provides an elegant setting for the concert, which is expected to draw a large audience from the Ithaca area and beyond. Community members are encouraged to arrive early to secure seating for what promises to be a joyous and inspiring event.
For more information about the Dorothy Cotton Jubilee Singers and their mission, visit dorothycottonjubileesingers.org.
The concert marks a high point in the holiday season, blending music, history, and community spirit.
company. Asked when she first choreographed this Nutcracker, Lavinia is somewhat flummoxed to realize it was 45 years or so ago. After doing the fight scene for IB’s first choreographer Naomi Strichartz (who had worked herself with Ballet Russes), at age 25 she took on the whole piece. She still works variations on it, this year a new Candy Cane, as she had a ‘jumper’ in the person of Joseph Gonzales.
IB’s Nutcracker is the perfect old-fashioned painted drops, scrims and wings for their two proscenium homes: the Smith Opera House (just past Thanksgiving), and Ithaca’s State Theatre. Both theaters feature 1930s interiors by architect Victor Rigaumont in the fashionable highly gilded “Moorish” style, with contemporary accents of Art Deco.
The Ithaca Ballet’s beloved Nutcracker plays Friday December 13 at 7:30 p.m. and Saturday and Sunday December 14 & 15 at 3 p.m. at the State Theatre.