PAGES 8-9
CHANGING PUBLIC WORKS
GREENSTAR WORKERS SEEK TO UNIONIZE PAGE 4
Alleged Discrimination Threatens BIPOC Community Garden
COUNCIL APPROVES DEPUTY CITY MANAGER PAGE 6
TRUMANSBURG FAIR RETURNS PAGE 11 EXPLORE THE GORGES PAGE 12
Unforgettable Memories, Important Life Lessons
Life is full of surprises. Especially life on a farm.
No one was more surprised than Matthew Woodworth when not a single chicken hatched f ro m a c a re f u l l y m o n i t o re d i n c u b a t o r a t Th e William George Agency for Children’s Services (WGA) back in April.
Wo o d w o rt h , k n o w n a s “ Wo o d y ” , h a d j u s t taken a new position at WGA as Farm Supervisor to kick-start a farming and agriculture program on campus.
“My heart jumped when the position was posted. It seemed like all the stars were aligning. I always had an affinity for being outdoors as a kid, and I work my own patch of farmland now at home. I love being outdoors and helping things grow - be they plants, animals, or people,” says Woody “ When our first attempt at hatching chickens was a dismal failure, it was one of the lowest points for me in recent memory and disappointing to the young resident I worked with who checked the incubator temperature and humidity every day for nearly a month. It taught a valuable lesson about life and how to respond when things don’t go according to plan. You can give up o r p e r s e v e re i n t h e f a c e o f l o s s o r s e t b a c k . We c h o s e t o persevere. ”
earn credit towards getting their high school degree thanks to a partnership with the George Junior Republic Union Free School District. Youth learn about crop production, animal husbandry, soil management, agricultural machinery, and f a r m
concepts include sustainable farming practices, a g
economics.
Youth residing on campus don’t have to want to be a farmer to participate in the program’s activities. Anyone who wants to interact with and care for plants and animals is welcome.
“ We’ve created a new space here where kids c a n l e a r n a b o u t a n i m a l - h u m a n c o n n e c
practice responsibility, and engage in responsive relationships,” says Woody “A place where youth can learn to build empathy and compassion by caring for new life.”
Enthusiasm for the new program has been spreading on campus through word of mouth thanks to participating youth who are proud to show what they’re learning to their peers.
On the second try, four incubators were used. One was filled with chicken eggs, one with turkey eggs, one with a mix of both and the fourth contained Indian Runner duck eggs, which had been donated to WGA.
“On May 1, four days earlier than expected, the turkey eggs started rocking, and the kids couldn't believe it,” says Woody “ The youth who had checked the incubator the first time around had invested forty days in this one moment. Luckily, the first turkey zippered and made its way out. Then another one. And then another When all was said and done, twenty-six turkeys (100% success rate), eight chickens, and two adorable ducks hatched within a two-week period. One youth who grew up in an urban setting exclaimed in disbelief ‘I watched a duck hatch out of an egg!’ After the births, the care routine shifted from checking temperature and humidity to food, water, and health checks before moving on to the greenhouse or outside.”
The Agriculture and Farming Program is the latest addition to the milieu therapy that occurs year-round on WGA’s 650-acre c a m p u s i n Fre e v i l l e , N Y. I t a i m s t o p re p a re y o u n g p e o p l e , interested in farming as a living, for careers in the industry or for further education in a related field. It is one of 18 hands-on vocational opportunities on campus where eligible teens can
Over the course of its 129-year history, WGA’s campus has supported flower and vegetable gardens, dairy cows and angus cattle, turkeys, lambs, pigs, horses, an apple orchard and maple trees for tapping.
“ We’re thrilled to bring back farming and agriculture for youth to experience year-round at WGA,” says Helen Hulings, executive director at The William George Agency for Children’s Services. “Farm life requires focus, discipline, planning, patience, know-how, and commitment. It also teaches that hard work is satisfying and can lead to great accomplishments.”
Wo o d y s a y s a s i t e h a s b e e n c l e a re d n e a r t h e e x i s
Horticulture building on campus for a new orchard thanks to a donation of edible fruit and nut trees. Rows of sunflowers and a pumpkin patch have also been planted.
“ We’re experimenting with different approaches so kids can l ea r n fi r s t - h a n d w h at w o r ks a n d w h at d o e s n ’ t . O n e row o f sunflowers has really taken off, and the youth have been cutting them and taking them back to their residences,” he says. “ We’re all looking forward to picking pumpkins in the fall.”
T h e W i l l i a m G e o r g e A g e n c y f o r C h i l d r e n ’ s S e r v i c e s i s committed to providing a safe and caring residential environment supported by proven, therapeutic, clinical and medical care for atr i s k y o u t h F o r 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.
Ithaca Proposes Major Overhaul of Public Works Governance
By Matt Dougherty
In an effort to address long standing inefficiencies and enhance public involvement in the city’s Department of Public Works (DPW), the Public Works Governance Working Group has proposed a series of significant reforms. The key recommendation is to dissolve the existing Board of Public Works (BPW) and establish a new Public Works, Accessibility, and Transportation Commission.
The proposed commission aims to improve transparency, efficiency, and responsiveness in public works management. It will retain an advisory status but take over the portfolio of duties currently assigned to the BPW, including water (excluding fluoridation), sewers and drains, streets, sidewalks, parks, and public buildings. The new commission will also engage in community outreach to ensure public input on public works matters.
The BPW has faced criticism for overlapping authorities and inefficiencies, particularly in decision-making processes that conflict with the Common Council. In June 2020, the City Administration Committee proposed dissolving the BPW, but the ordinance did not pass. Staffing challenges brought on by the pandemic exacerbated these issues, and the BPW has struggled to perform its functions or hold regular meetings since then.
Alderperson Clyde Lederman raised concerns about moving to a more advisory model, emphasizing the democratic nature of the BPW. “How do you feel like this new model will be able to preserve its formal place of representing citizens in the process?” he asked.
Alderperson Tiffany Kumar, who introduced the proposal, responded, “The idea is that this commission would hear public grievances, synthesize them, make their own decisions based on that input,
T ake n ote
X Museum of the Earth Unveils New Seismology Exhibit, Prepares for Shark Fest
ITHACA, N.Y. — The Museum of the Earth has announced the launch of its newly revamped seismology exhibit, offering visitors an interactive experience that delves into the powerful forces shaping our planet. This permanent exhibit features cutting-edge technology and historical artifacts, making it a must-see for guests of all ages.
A highlight of the exhibit is a digital seismograph display that provides real-time data on Earth's movements, captured by a seismometer located on the Museum's grounds. Visitors can even create their own "museum quake" by jumping on a designated area and watching the resulting seismic activity in real time.
Adding a unique historical element, the exhibit also includes an early prototype of the seismometer used during the 1969 Apollo 11 mission. This instrument, designed by the late Cornell seismologist
and then bring those findings and recommendations to the council. As members of the Common Council, we are democratic representatives of the people. This structure allows us to efficiently prioritize both public input and expert DPW recommendations.”
Alderperson Ducson Nguyen highlighted past conflicts between the DPW and the Common Council, such as the removal
WEB
Muawia Barazangi, was used to measure moonquakes and represents a significant connection between Earth and planetary science.
“We are incredibly excited to share this updated exhibit with our community,” said Warren Allmon, Director of the Paleontological Research Institution, which oversees the Museum. “Our goal is to inspire curiosity and a deeper understanding of the natural world.”
The seismology exhibit is now open to the public. For more details, visit www.museumoftheearth.org.
In addition to the new exhibit, the Museum is hosting Shark Fest on Saturday, August 17, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. This family-friendly event will feature a Shark Tooth ID game, interactive activities, scavenger hunts, and a raffle with shark-themed prizes. Shark Fest celebrates National Fishing Month and aims to educate visitors about sharks, their ancient history, and their importance to marine ecosystems.
All Shark Fest activities are included with Museum admission. For more information, visit the Museum's website.
F r EE lan CE rs : Barbara Adams, G. M Burns, Jane Dieckmann, Charley Githler, Ross Haarstad, Steve Lawrence, Marjorie Olds, Henry Stark, and Arthur Whitman
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(1972–1978) and The
Ithaca, NY 14851. The Ithaca Times was
The City of Ithaca is proposing to dissolve the current Board of Public Works and replace it with a new Public Works, Accessibility, and Transportation Commission. The changes are aimed at resolving longstanding issues of overlapping authority and inefficiencies within the Department of Public Works. (Photo: File)
By Mark Syvertson
QUESTION OF THE WEEK:
WHAT ARE YOU HOPING TO DO WITH YOUR LAST FEW WEEKS OF
SUMMER?
GreenStar Workers Seek to Unionize with Workers United
By Matt Dougherty
Workers at the GreenStar Food Co-op in Ithaca are pushing for unionization, citing a need for improved workplace democracy and better working conditions. Despite a majority of workers expressing support for unionizing with Workers United, management has opted to hold an election rather than voluntarily recognizing the union.
“It was a disappointment for management not to recognize us voluntarily because we did have a majority of workers on cards,” GreenStar employee Maxwell Bollman said during a recent press conference. “The election process will be democratic, and we’re excited that workers here will be able to exercise that right.”
Bollman said that workers have requested that management sign fair election principles, ensuring equal time for workers and management to discuss the organizing drive. “We’re hoping they sign those because we hope they respect our right to organize,” Bollman added. In response to questions regarding why management decided against voluntarily recognizing the union, General Manager Jeff Bessemer told the Ithaca Times, “Like Ithaca, GreenStar has many passionate staff who have a broad diversity of opinions about this topic. As a democratic organization and having listened to many staff, it is important to our team that everyone has a chance to have their voice heard through an election.”
Bessemer continued saying, “GreenStar supports all workers right to unionize and create better jobs in their community. We congratulate the group of staff who are seeking to form a union at GreenStar for the work they've put in and their contributions to making the Co-op a great place to work.”
According to Bessemer, “Over the past two years we have increased our entry wage from $15.38 to $17.62 and offer great benefits like 2-5+ weeks of paid time off per year plus 5 floating and 2 regular holidays, 80% paid health insurance, vision, dental, staff discount, and more.” He added, “The Co-op has long been a valuesdriven community institution and no matter the results of the vote we will continue to make the Co-op a great place to work.”
David Meyers, a GreenStar employee, emphasized the need for workplace democracy. “Workplace democracy is my focus. I think it's important to have a voice
and be heard, but I think it’s also important that we take part in the decisions about the work we’re doing.”
Front-end worker Nico Lewis expressed frustration with management’s handling of issues and the lack of support for diverse employees. “They’re not taking care of their more diverse employees and not listening to us when we have problems. We all just really want to start being heard,” Lewis said.
Jessica Marks highlighted the contradiction between GreenStar’s democratic principles and its daily operations. “There’s a lot of talk about being democratic in the co-op, but in the day-to-day operations, different departments are not being run democratically,” she said. “Management is very adamant that they are in charge and don’t want the daily workflow directed by people who actually do that work.”
GreenStar is a consumer cooperative, meaning it is owned by its customers rather than its workers. In contrast, a worker cooperative is owned and democratically controlled by its employees. “In a consumer coop, the workers do not necessarily have any privileged or democratic voice in decisionmaking whatsoever, other than being one of 14,000 members,” Meyers explained. “Unionizing is a way for us to seek a democratic voice for workers inside a consumer co-op.”
The workers are now pushing for an election to formalize the union, aiming to hold it within a few weeks. “We sent an email saying that [we wanted to hold an election] within two weeks, but I have no idea,” Lewis said. Meyers added, “The
letter to management stated it’d be great to have this in two weeks, but the NLRB process might extend it to four weeks.” Management will be required to recognize the union if the vote to unionize succeeds.
The employees believe that unionizing will benefit their working conditions and enhance the shopping experience for customers. “It will be a better experience for our customers to come in and have a better experience with us,” Lewis said. “I hear the same complaints from hundreds of people every day: the lines are too long, there’s nothing on the shelves. I want a better shopping experience for our customers to make my job a better experience.”
Meyers emphasized that the union effort is part of a broader push for community improvement. “In addition to doing this for ourselves, we see ourselves potentially inspiring other places. If they see somebody unionizing here, they might think, ‘Well, we can do it too,’” Meyers said. “We’re aiming for a more coherent and supportive community.”
The union’s demands focus on giving workers a real voice in their workplace. “Organizing in the grocery industry is like having a bunch of little workplaces collaborating, and so the issues are diverse and vary from department to department,” Bollman explained. “Overall, we’re organizing so that workers can voice their grievances and collaborate on best practices. It’s
“Soak up as much sun as possible.”
Imani
“We always love visiting family in the summer.”
Amy
“I really want to go mountain biking at Greek Peak.”
Hana
“Catch as much live music as possible.”
Curt
“I’m going to the Adirondacks and I want to climb Algonquin.”
Anthony
GreenStar Food Co-Op employees held a press conference on August 8 to discuss their ongoing effots to unionize with Workers United, seeking improved workplace democracy and better working conditions. (Left to Right: Alicia Richard, Jessica Marks, Joe Damiano, Nico Lewis, Aaron Spayth, David Meyers, Maxwell Bollman). (Photo: Matt Dougherty)
The Talk at
LETTERS TO THE EDITOR
RE: Josh Riley Runs For Congress
“I’ve met Josh Riley several times, and I’ve heard him speak to groups as he campaigns to represent us in NY 19. Josh is a good listener, who really wants to know what people in his district care about. I think he will be a great Representative in Congress, a genuine public servant who deserves our votes. Josh wants to get the corrupting influence of “Big Money” out of our politics, and he plans to lead the fight to make that happen. His campaign refuses to accept corporate PAC money, and he intends to do what it takes to reverse the Citizens United decision that allows unlimited “dark money” contributions from corporations to political campaigns.
Our current Representative claims to be a “moderate”, but Marc Molinaro always seems to vote against the interests of ordinary people, and he supports the liars and insurrectionists currently leading his party.
Please join me in supporting Josh Riley for Congress on Election Day — Novem-
ber 5, 2024. We need a Representative for NY 19 who will work to make our system more fair for all of us.”
— Will Fudeman
RE: Raising Minimum Wage
“Americans are in general very opinionated, and nowhere is this more evident than in Ithaca, NY ! However, opinions are only as accurate (i.e. True) as is their correlation with empirical reality.
In response to Mr. Kramer’s tired diatribe against raising the Minimum wage, I know all the standard issue arguments against it. I took an Introductory course in Economics when I was in college and heard about all these standard issue “cons” about raising the minimum wage. The problem is these economic theories are just that: they are Theories, and as such they can either be confirmed or disproved.
The current data doesn’t concur with these theories. If anything it directly contradicts them. The available economic data shows that a modest increase in the minimum wage is very unlikely to decrease employment (it actually increases employment modestly but significantly). Additionally economists at California State University (at San Bernardino) found that for every 10% increase in the minimum wage the price of goods (for that industry) increased 0.36%. The data also shows that such an increase has many positive effects. Things like: increasing worker productivity;
decreasing sick time usage, and employee turnover (whose cost averages 16% of the yearly salary of a low income worker); improving health outcomes of their workers (lowering sicktime); decreasing health care costs (another big expense for employers!). Also minimum wage increases not only increases employment for the affected industry, but also for the economy as a whole (i.e. for all other industries). The last few Federal minimum wage increases improved the whole nation’s economy for every increase enacted: A minimum wage increase to $5.85 per hour in 2007 generated an additional 1.7 billion dollars in consumer spending and a minimum wage increase in 2008 to $6.55 per hour generated an additional 3.1 billion dollars in consumer spending.
The data also show a correlation(of increased minimum wage) with lower smoking rates; fewer teen pregnancies and less teenage alcohol consumption. For all the reasons (and probably more) polls show a nationwide avg of 61% of small business owners support raising the Federal minimum wage, and even in the South 58% support raising the minimum wage!
These contrary (to currently accepted opinion) findings make inherent sense when you realize that the lowest income people are still people, who have the same dreams and aspirations as the rest of us, and if given enough disposable income are going to spend it on life’s necessities like: necessary medical (Dental, and preventative care) Cars, houses and things to maintain them and necessary stuff for their children. Who are the powers that wish to keep them poor and doing without? It doesn’t do them or any of us (and especially our economy, and our democracy) any good to keep doing this, and for what reason? Mr. Kramer’s discredited economic theories lambasting a well thought out Federal minimum wage increase are counterproductive to the health (moral and physical) as well as the continued prosperity of our nation. Shouldn’t our leaders base their policy decisions on objective (i.e. provable) reality and not on counterfactual, and narrowly, self-serving nonsense?” — Michael
P. Mancuso
RE: Funding for Substance Use Prevention & Treatment Services
“It’s about time, cause I’m sorry “gap”?
How long has that detox been built for? 4 years? And it only opened for maybe 6 months in 2020? Then there’s Drug and Alcohol outpatient services, that has been part of this community since 1965 but quite abruptly shut down in January, essentially telling the clients “good luck, there’s no more funding.” Leaving them with no where to
go. Drug users are one of the most judged groups, constantly being shamed into getting help. Where though? And how many do you suppose went back out when their support disappeared? More than one I’m sure. It’s not a secret that overdoses and deaths are quickly increasing year after year and unfortunately this isn’t unique to our town either. It’s happening across the board. Both of these programs were under OASIS funding to begin with, so, um thanks OASIS for stepping up? I guess better late than never but, I’m gonna go out in a limb here and say, the families of those that didn’t make it during this “gap”, aren’t as appreciative.” —
Christina Paulson
RE: Magic Man Attacked By Juveniles on Commons
“I don’t know anything about this guy, his criminal past, or his obnoxious present. But even if everything you say is true in general, he might still be completely innocent in this specific matter. The article doesn’t tell us why he was assaulted or whether “his words” had anything to do with it. In any case, it’s a good general principle that anyone violently attacked without justification, even if it’s because of their words, even if they’re a bad person, ought to be defended.” — Dave Alsosson
“I was sitting on a bench trying to enjoy my ice cream when one of these kids snuck up on Magic Man, camera filming, and then recorded himself shooting Magic Man with some missile-launching gun. Magic Man got *really* upset, yelling that it was assault and he’d break their gun. These kids just kept laughing and taunting him. I mean, he did react really strongly (he did break their toy gun, I think), and I don’t have a lot of love for the guy, but these kids definitely learned consequences to their actions…” —
Melisa Crumrine
“Magic Man, who under his real name, actually ran for public office some years ago as a rabid Trump supporter. Apparently no-one at the Time knows he also has a show of public access where ehe spews MAGA untruths. Also he is also a scourge in Elmira as he regularly takes a bus there (Maybe when things get too hot for him here) and he does the same kind of things here. Personally I think he should be PERMANENTLY BANNED from the Commons, as I believe he is a danger to children and adults, and also I believe political activity is illegal there. And YES I have seen him do that several times. This charlatan IS A DANGER TO THE ITHACA (AND ELMIRA) COMMUNITIES AND NEEDS TO BE REIGNED IN.” — David Bly
UPS DOWNS&
Ups
The Tompkins County Legislature voted 11-3 to pass a resolution committing to explore the possibility of establishing a local Tompkins County minimum wage that is higher than the New York State minimum wage.
Downs
Last week Ithaca police responded to multiple calls reporting the assault of the "Magic Man," a controversial self-proclaimed street magician who is frequently seen performing on the commons.
HEARD SEEN&
Heard
After failing at a previous meeting, the Tompkins County Legislature voted 9-5 to approve a resolution to adopt a local law that would allow the County to override the tax levy limit for 2025 if necessary.
Seen
Senator Lea Webb has secured $25,000 in state funds to enhance the vital services provided by Cayuga Addiction Recovery Services (CARS). This funding will support the organization’s e orts to o er comprehensive recovery services and individual counseling/ treatment options to the community.
IF YOU CARE TO RESPOND to something in this column, or suggest your own praise or blame, write news@ithacatimes. com, with a subject head “U&D.”
QUESTION OF THE WEEK
Should the State Health Department retest the air and soil around the former Ithaca Gun Factory site to check for harmful contamination?
89 . 9 % Yes.
4.3% No.
5.8 % I don’t care.
Should the City of Ithaca adopt Ranked Choice Voting?
Visit ithaca.com to submit your response.
Common Council Approves Deputy City Manager Position Focused on Public Safety
By Matt Dougherty
The Ithaca Common Council voted unanimously on Wednesday to create the position of Deputy City Manager. e position is tasked with overseeing the city’s reimagining public safety initiatives, like implementing an unarmed response unit, while also helping to manage the city’s encampment response protocol. Despite the unanimous vote, some council members expressed concerns about the position’s broad job description. In contrast, others insisted that a broad description would allow the position to address a wide range of issues.
Conversations about creating this position began in 2022 when the Common Council proposed a Deputy Chief of Sta position to support implementing public safety initiatives. By 2023, the reimagining public safety working group rede ned the role as a Deputy City Manager, and the Council adopted the group’s recommendations in April 2023.
e job description for the position was approved by the Civil Service Commission on July 5 and stated that the salary will range from $110,000 to $130,000 annually. However, when bene ts are accounted for, the actual salary will be around $150,000.
e proposed Deputy City Manager would be responsible for overseeing the Ithaca Police Department’s (IPD) crisis co-response team, leading and coordinating e orts with programs such as the Law Enforcement Assisted Diversion (LEAD), and managing the overall public safety coordination. A signi cant part of the job would be to develop and codify a holistic crisis coresponse approach, an e ort vital to the city’s reimagining of its public safety model.
Additionally, the position will be responsible for implementing a community concerns reporting mechanism through SeeClickFix, and they will submit monthly public safety updates to the Common Council. Council members expressed both support and skepticism before casting their nal votes. Advocates argued that the position is necessary to carry out the city’s ambitious public safety reforms, while others highlighted their concerns about allocating funding to another administrative position and the broad scope of responsibilities for the role. ose in support of creating the position highlighted the need for a leader to ensure the successful implementation of long-awaited initiatives such as the unarmed
response unit, which aims to provide an alternative to traditional law enforcement.
“Community members have been waiting years for this transformation,” said Alderperson Ducson Nguyen. “ is role is crucial for bridging the gap between our public safety plans and their execution.”
Additionally, the Deputy City Manager will work closely with the Encampment Response Coordinator, a position that the Common Council is also considering creating to ensure a coordinated and e ective approach to managing homeless encampments in the city.
City Manager Deb Mohlenho has said that the Coordinator will serve as the “boots on the ground role [that will be] responsible for handling the immediate, day-to-day challenges associated with encampments.”
is includes responding to reports of new encampments, coordinating with city departments, and engaging directly with individuals living in these areas to connect them with support services.
“ e Coordinator is going to be on the front lines, managing speci c situations that arise at any given time,” Mohlenho explained. “But there’s a higher-level piece to this work that requires coordination and policy development, which is where the Deputy City Manager comes in.”
According to Mohlenho , the Deputy City Manager will focus on “the broader strategy and oversight” of encampment management, ensuring that the coordinator’s immediate responses align with the city’s long-term goals. According to previous Council discussions, creating the encampment response coordinator position would cost $30,000.
“ ere’s a lot of overlap between public safety and the work needed for encampments, which is why it makes sense to align them under the Deputy City Manager,” said Mohlenho . “ is person will provide leadership and guidance to the Coordinator, helping to set priorities and ensure that all e orts are part of a cohesive strategy.”
Advocates say that allocating a broad range of responsibilities to the role will help address the wide range of issues impacting public safety in Ithaca and avoid
the need to revise the job description in the future. However, others have said the responsibilities are too broad and potentially duplicative of existing positions.
Alderperson Margaret Fabrizio has said, “ ere are many duplicative functions in this job description. I don’t understand why we would write a job description that includes many of the City Manager’s responsibilities but then say that’s not what they’re doing. at doesn’t make sense to me.”
City Manager Deb Mohlenho responded to questions about how her role would change with creating the Deputy City Manager position by clarifying that her job would largely remain the same, except for the added responsibility of supervising the new Deputy City Manager.
“I don’t think my job will change at all other than supervising another person who’s doing the work outlined in the memo,” Mohlenho explained. She emphasized that the Deputy City Manager would take on speci c tasks currently not being addressed as e ectively as possible, particularly those related to encampment response and creating an unarmed response unit.
Fabrizio was also concerned about thenancial implications of the broad job description, suggesting that the position might be overfunded for what it is intended to achieve.
“We do not need to fund a Deputy City Manager position at $150,000 in addition to what we have. is looks extremely duplicative,” Fabrizio said, questioning the necessity of such a high salary for a role that she believed could be more narrowly de ned.
Alderperson Kayla Matos pushed back against suggestions that the role was too broad, arguing that the position’s broad
Ithaca Common Council unanimously approved the new Deputy City Manager position to oversee Ithaca’s public safety reforms and encampment response protocol. (Photo: File)
Correcting the Record on Cayuga Lake Pollution
By Community Science Institute
On August 8th, 2024, the Ithaca Times published a guest opinion article concerning pollution of the Cayuga Inlet and Cayuga Lake. The author of this piece is clearly a passionate steward and fierce advocate for our shared water resources. I commend the writer for their care and concern for our beautiful Cayuga Lake and its tributaries, particularly the time they have spent picking trash out of these waterways. As your neighbor, I thank you for this effort. However, I would like to correct some false information that was presented in the article regarding water quality monitoring in the Cayuga Inlet, Cayuga Lake, and surrounding watershed. The author claimed that “There is no testing of the water in the Inlet and there never has been”. And that “no one is testing for E.coli [in Cayuga Lake]”. Below I highlight important work being done to monitor water quality in the Cayuga Lake watershed to counter this misinformation. I am proud to be the executive director of Community Science Institute (CSI), an Ithaca-based non-profit organization and New York State Department of Health (NYSDOH) state-certified water testing lab. Since 2002, CSI has partnered with hundreds of trained volunteers to monitor water quality in the Cayuga Lake watershed. Because we analyze water samples in a state-certified lab and follow a quality assurance project plan (QAPP) that adheres to EPA guidelines, the water quality data collected through our Synoptic Sampling Program is consideredregulatory quality. This means that the data can be used with confidence for management purposes. CSI volunteers in our Synoptic Sampling Program monitor their designated streams (including Cayuga Inlet) and shorelineapproximately three times each year for the following water quality indicators: E.coli, nutrients (total phosphorus, soluble reactive phosphorus, nitrate-+-nitrite-nitrogen, total Kjeldahl nitrogen), chloride, specific conductance, total suspended solids, turbidity, pH, total hardness, and alkalinity.
Data collected by CSI volunteers is critical for understanding the health of Cayuga Lake and its tributaries. Our data are used by local governments, scientific researchers, and more. You can read more about the impact of CSI’s data on our website.
We believe all people have the right to understand the health and safety of their local water bodies. That is why we publish the data collected through our monitoring programs on our public online database.
On our Streams and Lakes Chemistry database, users can explore trends in water quality across space and time using interactive graphs and maps. The raw data can also be downloaded into spreadsheets for those who prefer to do their own data exploration and analysis. In addition to our Streams and Lakes Chemistry database, we also have a Harmful Algal Bloom (HAB) Database, where cyanobacteria blooms reported and sampled by CSI volunteers (our “HAB Harriers”) are posted in near-real time. For more information about our Cayuga Lake HAB monitoring program, please visit our website. Finally, CSI also provides data regarding the ecological health of our streams thanks to our biomonitoring program for benthic macroinvertebrates. More information on the biomonitoring program including monitoring results can be found on our website.
When it comes to the Cayuga Inlet specifically, CSI has an incredibly dedicated team of volunteers who have been monitoring this waterbody and its tributaries including Buttermilk Creek, Enfield Creek, and Cascadilla Creek since 2007. Note that a separate, but equally dedicated volunteer group monitors Six Mile Creek, which is also a tributary of Cayuga Inlet. The data collected by our Cayuga Inlet volunteers can be accessed on this page of our database. I encourage anyone who is interested in the water quality on the Inlet and its tributaries to explore these data.
CSI volunteers are also monitoring the shoreline of Cayuga Lake, specifically for E.coli. On the west shore, CSI collaborates with the West Shore Neighborhood Association to collect approximately 15 samples for monthly E.coli testing from May — September. On the east shore, volunteers on our Salmon Creek monitoring team stop by Myers Park, Salt Point, and the surrounding area
Dreaming of America
By Marjorie Olds
On March 3, 2022, Inna Zhuravlova departed from her husband Yurii, her extended family and home in Zaporizhzhia in the Ukraine, holding the hands of three and five-year old sons Illia and Bohdan. Accompanied by her sister, brother-in-law, their 3 children, and her mother, they travelled to Poland, to escape Russia’s invasion of their city. Yurii remained behind for nine months longer to care for his grandmother, who could not be evacuated swiftly.
Inna: “Me, my children, and my mother left Zaporizhzhia on an evacuation train to the Ukrainian city of Lviv, which is located on the border with Poland. Evacuation trains departed daily from Zaporizhzhia. The travel was very difficult, as the train was packed with people. People and suitcases were everywhere, in the aisles, in the vestibule, children were sitting on suitcases, four or five people on one bunk… there was nowhere to breathe.”
“On the train through unsafe territories of Ukraine, the train was moving very slowly and without lights. It was prohibited even to use the phone, so as not to become a target of russia. (Now I write the name of this country with a small letter.)”
My sister and her family drove to the city of Lviv by car, and they left their car there. After meeting in Lviv, we all took a taxi together to the checkpoint on the border with Poland. Then we crossed the border on foot. We arrived at the UkrainianPolish border at about 6 p.m. and crossed the border finally into Poland at 5 a.m. the next day, waiting all that time outdoors in the freezing night in line. There were a lot of people who decided to leave the country that day. It was very cold, and it was the hardest for the children, because it was night, they were frozen, exhausted, and I’m sure they were also very scared.”
After crossing the Ukrainian-Polish border, we had nowhere to go, and we asked the Polish border guards for advice on what to do next. They advised us to go to a center specially created by Poland for refugees from Ukraine. It was a former shopping mall which was converted so that refugees could rest, eat, use the restroom, and most importantly, volunteers from different countries came there ready to help refugees. The volunteers had different tasks — some took refugees to their homes and gave shelter, some brought
food, clothes, basic necessities, and others helped psychologically. Thank God, there were volunteers from Germany helping in the Polish Center. I don’t speak Polish, but I do speak German.”
Eventually Inna and family relocated to Germany where a special United for Ukraine (U4U) program generously provided housing, some financial support and language training.
While awaiting Yurii’s arrival with his disabled grandmother, Inna began applying for a sponsor in the U.S. It was a long, complicated process, but she was determined and did not give up.
“We believe God sent Reverend Kirianne E. Weaver to us.” Rev. Weaver, Senior Pastor of Ithaca’s Presbyterian Church, assisted Inna and Yurii to be permitted to come to the United States. Inna: “It was our dream to come to the U.S., and now our prayers were answered.”
Once they arrived in Ithaca Rev. Weaver generously helped Inna and her family find housing, and until that was available Rev. Kirianne provided housing in her home. She also introduced them to Open Door English (see below), so that they could learn English, to feel comfortable in America, and to be able to find jobs and begin working.
Inna: “It is no secret that it is very difficult to start life from scratch. When we came to the USA we faced the fact that the language barrier prevented us from living and working fully. Kirianne Weaver introduced us to Liz Susman, director of Open Doors English and we became students at Open Doors English, and have never regretted it for a second…It’s a place where you can learn more than just English. The teachers also help you with your adaptation as much as possible, telling you about the culture of the USA. The teachers are great, they are attentive and patient with each student. It was at Open Doors that we met a lot of wonderful people who helped us with advice or deeds at the beginning of our journey. And we were very fortunate that the lessons were absolutely free, since we didn't have any income at that time.”
“Global Roots, affiliated with Open Door English provides childcare nearby to Open Door English, and children of all ages, from all countries play and learn
BIPOC Community Garden Owner Files Lawsuit Against Neighbor for Alleged Discrimination
Herbalist and owner of Black, Indigenous and people of color and LGBTQ+ safe Jane Minor community garden Amanda David has led a lawsuit against neighbor Robert Whittaker for alleged discrimination, which she has documented over the past three years.
David is alleging that Whittaker discriminated against her, her home and her business based on race, color and sex in violation of the Fair Housing Act, the Civil Rights Act of 1866 and the New York State Human Rights Law. According to the complaint, she also “seeks relief for Defendant Whittaker’s discriminatory and intentional in iction of emotional distress.”
In an interview with the Ithaca Times, Whittaker maintained that he is “totally innocent of all the allegations.”
e Tompkins County Sheri ’s O ce wrote to the Ithaca Times that they have investigated several reports regarding David and Whittaker. Despite making three separate arrests, the Sheri ’s O ce said there is insu cient evidence to support the allegations that Whittaker’s actions “meet the standard necessary for an elevated Hate Crime charge according to law.”
David is the owner of Rootwork Herbals — a community herbalism project that fosters herbal education through the People’s Medicine School and the Jane Minor BIPOC Community Medicine Garden — a BIPOC community garden that works to foster connection with plants, land and medicine. Her garden hosts events and classes and provides a community herb drying shed, hoop house, classroom space, lending library of herb books and tools and a free herbal medicine cabinet.
e Jane Minor BIPOC Community Medicine Garden is operated from David’s property in the town of Caroline, located 20 minutes southeast of Ithaca. According to David, this garden aims to create a safe space for Black, brown and LGBTQIA+ individuals around the Ithaca area.
However, due to alleged continual threats and discriminatory acts from Whittaker, this garden’s status as a safe space — and as an operable business — has been threatened, according to David.
By Dorothy France-Miller
“Amanda and her family have endured continuous racial threats and violence, underscoring the urgent need for a safe environment where Rootwork Herbals, the People’s Medicine School and Jane Minor BIPOC medicine garden can continue serving as a sanctuary for BIPOC and LGBTQIA+ communities to connect with the land, their cultural heritage and healing practices,” Melanie Allen and Olivia Watkins, co-executive directors of the Black Farmer Fund wrote in a press release obtained by the Ithaca Times.
According to the USDA Census, over the last ve years, the United States has lost .4 percent of all producers, with Black Americans su ering from the highest decline among all racial groups at 4 percent. Allen and Watkins wrote that this larger trend can be tied to the systemic oppression and discrimination that Black producers and farmers, including David, experience.
“ is is a direct result of the systemic racism Black farmers have faced for generations, encompassing everything from discriminatory lending practices to community violence and intimidation,” Allen and Watkins wrote in the press release.
THE INCIDENTS
Whittaker has been charged twice with criminal harassment in the second degree for verbal harassment, fourth-degree criminal mischief and violating an order of protection by shooting her chicken coop light with a BB gun.
In addition, David alleges Whittaker has vandalized her son’s car, spray painted her fence, threateningly shot a BB gun in the air during a teen gardening session, removed sections of her fence and threatened to hit her son with a stick, among other o enses. ere were no witnesses for many of these incidents, and Whittaker has denied
these claims when asked by the Tompkins County Sheri ’s O cers and the Times.
Despite consistent police reports and interactions over a span of three years and measures such as an order of protection — a court order requiring Whittaker not to speak to or interact with David — Whittaker has allegedly continued to engage with David and her family.
While David was granted an order of protection with a surrender of rearms, she says it has been ignored on numerous occasions by Whittaker. Whittaker allegedly continued to verbally harass and insult David and her family, which she recorded on her phone and presented to the police.
However, due to Whittaker not saying David’s name in the videos presented, this potential violation of the order of protection was invalidated due to “lack of sucient evidence.”
“ at’s not considered a violation of the order of protection even though he’s not supposed to talk to me — because he’s not saying my name, he's just calling me an ‘fing handout’ repeatedly whenever I’m outside,” David said.
Whittaker denied this allegation of harassment when speaking to the Times.
In a police report on a later dispute, Whittaker maintained that he no longer communicates with David in accordance with the order of protection.
Rather than acknowledging incidents in the context of the order of protection and previous harassment by Whittaker, David feels that the local authorities are continually dismissing her concerns.
“‘If you do anything again, you’ll really get in trouble next time,’” is how David described District Attorney Matthew Van Houten and Assistant District Attorney Kellys’ approaches to the case.
While David presents the perspective that Whittaker’s harassment is racially charged, Whittaker maintains this is untrue.
“ is is nothing to do with race or color, it’s just about respect for neighbors,” Whittaker told the Times. “If she would be quiet and leave me alone, I would be quiet and leave her alone.”
Whittaker expressed being disturbed by the Davids’ loud music, bright farm lights
Amanda David, owner of Rootwork Herbals and the Jane Minor BIPOC Community Medicine Garden, sits in her garden in Caroline, NY, where she cultivates a safe space for BIPOC and LGBTQ+ individuals to connect with the land and traditional healing practices. (Photo: Mark Syvertson)
and crowds attracted by their business. Additionally, he expressed distress for her pastures and chicken coops being so close to his property.
“I think we do need some zoning to keep people from putting a goat and chicken farm on an acre of land right between two residential houses,” Whittaker said. “It’s within 250 feet of houses on both sides.”
THE LAWSUIT
David and her family are seeking relocation from their home of several years and ling a federal housing discrimination suit against Whittaker.
“It’s just about trying to recoup some of the expenses because this is, it's not only my home, but it’s also my place of business,” David said.
e conclusions of the lawsuit are yet to be pronounced, as the court proceedings have not begun.
When asked to comment on the allegations, Syed Omar Shah, Whittaker’s lawyer, told the Times, “We have moved in to dismiss Ms. David’s claims in federal court.”
According to Casey Weissman-Vermeulen, sta attorney for CNY Fair Housing, David will be opposing Whittaker’s motion to dismiss. is will be led on or before August 14.
Whittaker denies that their neighbor disputes had anything to do with race or sex.
While David intends to continue with the lawsuit, she expressed how di cult it was to nd someone to take on her case.
“ ere is really nothing in place for racial harassment from neighbor to neighbor or person to person. [Agencies said] ‘If he
This “No Trespassing” sign on Whittaker’s property has “I support the 2nd!” written in the white space. David noted in a police report that she felt it was “a threat to her and her family.” (Photo: Amanda David)
was your landlord, we could help you’ or ‘If he was your employer, we could help you,’” David said. “Which is unfortunate, because clearly this is something that happens person to person all the time every day.”
While David has found some respite in her Rootwork Herbals and local community, she said that her family had to “create the support” themselves, as she felt the legal system was not supporting them thoroughly.
“I don’t know the ins and outs of the law and how they’re enforced but it appears there is subjectivity in how the police respond,” David said. “I was calling for years before there was an o cer who I felt really took the situation seriously.”
Written signs on the interior of Whittaker’s house reference black protective hairstyles and sexual orientations and face David’s property. (Photo: Amanda David)
e Tompkins County website states
“In addition to its obligations under Title VI, Tompkins County is committed to equally serving all persons in all county programs or services without discrimination on the basis of race, color, sex, gender identity and expression, sexual orientation, religion, age, national origin, alienage, disability, medical condition, military status, familial status, ex-o ender status or any other characteristic protected by law.”
Onyx Ramírez, senior communications manager for the Black Farmers Fund, expressed her support for David.
“ e fact that [David] as a landowner cannot be on her land is insane to us and
not an isolated incident at all,” Ramírez said. “ is is something that has happened to Black stewards and owners of Black businesses for centuries now.”
Due to David’s role as a community practitioner, David claims that this harassment has had e ects not only on her family, but on the local BIPOC community that she educates and supports.
“My children and I should be able to feel safe and secure in our own home, but we don’t. Mr. Whittaker’s persistent and horrendously racist and sexist intimidation and harassment has made that impossible,” David wrote in a press release obtained by the Times. “His discriminatory behavior hasn’t just harmed my family, it has also harmed the entire community of BIPOC gardeners and herbal medicine practitioners that I work with.”
Whitaker thinks that the same freedom of speech that protects David protects him and his actions as well.
“You’ve got to speak your piece. I’ve always been one to try and defend myself and what I think and believe in.”
David continued to describe the e ects that this ongoing case has had on her and her family, as they currently seek relocation. “ ere are already so many barriers to the elds of agriculture and horticulture for people of color,” David wrote. “It makes me both discouraged and deeply sad that Mr. Whittaker’s harassment is yet another obstacle that I and the community I’m part of have to confront in our e orts to engage in this work.”
Dorothy France-Miller is a reporter from the Cornell Daily Sun working on e Sun’s summer fellowship at e Ithaca Times.
Amanda David is alleging that Whittaker vandalized her family’s car. (Photo: Amanda David)
Community members gathered at a community garden in the Town of Caroline, where the owner shared that a neighbor has subjected them to years of racial slurs and property encroachment. (Photo: Provided)
A Century of Service
Cornell Honors, Among Others, Two with Combined 100 Years of Service
By Steve Lawrence
When Cornell announced its list of 2024 inductees into the Athletic Hall of Fame, I was so pleased that two of my friends of 40-plus years — Bernie DePalma and Terry Cullen — are to be inducted in the Special Category. I called Bernie — who retired a year ago a er a stellar career in Sports Medicine, Physical erapy and Athletic Training — and I asked him how he felt about being inducted along with Terry, given Bernie’s career was so short by comparison. DePalma laughed, and agreed that his 42 years did not quite measure up to Cullen’s 58 years with the Big Red Sprint Football program (45 as the Head Coach). Also selected to be enshrined in September are Hannah Balleza ’14, eld hockey; Montez Blair ’14, men’s track and eld; Allyson DiMagno ’14, women’s basketball; Je Mathews ’14, football; Jason Noble ’13, men’s
lacrosse; Patrick Slogic ’14, men’s soccer; Rachel Sorna ’14, women’s track and eld/cross country; Jessi Steinberg ’12, women’s lacrosse; and Catherine White ’12, women’s ice hockey.
To list the awards DePalma won would take up way too much space, but he was grateful that the HOF bio lauded his “impact on the profession.” Bernie said, “ at’s very nice, but what I’m really proud of is the way I served the athletes, and how that desire became a career, and a career resulted in so many lifelong friendships.” He added, “I did all I could to get the athletes back on the eld, and we could tape up some injuries (future NFL star Kevin Boothe played with two broken hands) but other injuries, like concussions, were di erent. We always had the health, safety and welfare of the student athletes as our top priority.” He laughed when he recounted the times a coach would say, “ e athlete said he feels great and is ready to play.” DePalma would give them that Elder
WHAT DO RESIDENTS SAY ABOUT US?
Living at Kendal of Ithaca has been excellent in every way. Getting old isn’t easy. Being here makes me feel safe and secure. It’s the best long term health insurance plan.
- Mary
Statesman stare, and ask, “What do you think he’s going to say to you?” Indeed, there were times that playing bad cop was part of the job.
Terry Cullen will join his father, Bob, in the Cornell Athletic Hall of Fame. Their coaching tenures span 80 years. (Photos: Provided)
I then asked Bernie about the national awards, and if one stood out as the most meaningful to him. He o ered, “I really enjoyed the national stu — serving as the liaison between the NCAA and the NATA (National Athletic Trainers Association) — and the legislative changes I was able to be a part of, but this Hall of Fame induction is de nitely the highest honor. is is home.”
My next conversation was with Terry Cullen, and we got a good laugh about Bernie’s brief — by comparison — 42-year career. I asked Terry to share his feeling about his induction, and he said, “It means a great deal to me,” and we both got a little choked up when he added, “in large part because I get to join my dad.” (Bob Cullen was an iconic gure as ever set foot in the Cornell athletic complex, as he coached for 41 years, at the varsity, junior varsity and lightweight — now known as Sprint — levels.) Terry continued, saying “It also means a lot to have the recognition of 1,500 of our former players. e way my dad coached set the tone for me, and you
know... I think we did a pretty good job.” e online stories about Kyle Dake winning his second bronze medal in Paris are too numerous to count, but a social media post by Dake’s friend, neighbor and fellow NCAA champion caught my attention. Mitch Clark — who won a national title for Ohio State in 1998 — wrote about Kyle making the Olympic team just days a er losing his father. Clark wrote, “What people don’t know about Kyle is he and his father ran a Lansing Youth wrestling club all through his college and International career. Kyle for many years also taught a 3 week PE wrestling curriculum in the Lansing Elementary.” He added, “I witnessed Kyle (and his brother Cory) care for his father in a hands on unsel sh manner that I can’t describe and I won’t try because I can’t give it justice.” In a phone conversation, Mitch told me, “We live right near the Dake family, we are friends, and while I am 15 years older than Kyle, he's someone I look up to. e way he approaches his training and his overall wellbeing is incomparable, and he is an incredible son, husband, father and mentor.”
Website: www.kai.kendal.org, Email: admissions@kai.kendal.org or call (607) 266-5300 2230 N. Triphammer Road џ Ithaca, NY 14850-6513 Connect with us on Facebook
By Maddy Vogel
Aer welcoming Grassroots attendees just a few weeks ago, the Trumansburg fairgrounds will be transformed once again with the return of a long-standing tradition that, for many, marks the end of the summer season with one last celebration. e 173rd annual Trumansburg fair will start on Tuesday, Aug. 20 and bring music and fun to the village until Sunday, Aug. 25.
e six-day fair will feature many of the well-known attractions that bring people together and create family traditions, transforming the town into a bustling scene of attendees from across the Finger Lakes region enjoying the classic fried-food and carnival rides.
Jerry Reynolds has been involved with the fair since 1962 as a board member and became board president in 1985. His wife, Sandi, has been involved as a superintendent and associate member for just as long.
Reynolds told the Times in a past interview that three things keep Reynolds coming back to the fair each year,. “To promote agriculture, the educational value and everybody has a good time.”
Tuesday marks the “so opening” of the fair, o ering a more quaint and relaxed environment for attendees who may be seeking a calmer atmosphere. e day will begin at noon with colt stake and harness racing, followed by judging of exhibits at 1 p.m. and light & heavy weight horse pulls starting at 6 p.m. With free admission, this rst day will o er attendees a glimpse into the culture of the
& Entertainment Annual Fair Returns to Trumansburg
The 173rd Annual Trumansburg Fair will take place from August 20-25. Admission is $6 per person, children 12 years & under free, and free parking available on the fairgrounds. (Photo: Trumansburg Fair Website/provided)
agricultural roots of the fair before the array of rides takes over.
roughout the following days of the fair, the event will cater to audiences of all ages, with children’s days on Wednesday and Friday and senior and veterans day on ursday. is means that on ursday, seniors and veterans will get free admission and on Wednesday and Friday, children will have dozens of opportunities to compete and win prizes.
One of the most well-attended parts of the fair is the annual remen’s parade, during which attendees can witness the wide array of community assets and organizations that the Trumansburg and surrounding areas have to offer, while oats in the parade can see the crowd that the fair brings while gliding through town. e parade will form at 3 p.m. and will start at 4 p.m. sharp. Floats are also competing for cash prizes, awarded to winners in various categories such as oldest vehicle and best appearing re department.
On Saturday, the highly-anticipated demolition derby and monster truck show will come to town. A er the grandstands are lled with the sound of roaring engines, risky stunts and excited crowds, the night will conclude with a reworks show at 9:30 p.m.
A full program of events is available to view at the fair’s website at: https://trumansburgfair. weebly.com/
The 173rd Annual Trumansburg Fair
Aug. 20-25
Admission $6 per person, children 12 years & under free Free parking available on fairgrounds Ticket and wristband prices vary https://trumansburgfair.weebly.com/
Jerry and Sandi Reynolds, longtime members of the fair’s board who play a key role in organizing the fair each year. (Photo: Provided)
Annual Gorge Walks Encourage Geological Exploration and Education
By Maddy Vogel
The Paleontological Research Institution (PRI) and Finger Lakes State Parks are partnering to bring back the James Potorti Gorge Walks for the month of August. In these walks, attendees can learn about the geology of the local gorges on a guided, interpretive tour every Friday morning. e walks began with an endowment
Paleontological Research Institution
1259 Trumansburg Road, Ithaca, NY 14850
www.priweb.org
in 2004 from Nikki Stern in memory of her late husband James E. Potorti, who was an Ithaca native and tragically lost his life in the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001. Stern is the Executive Director of Families of September 11.
Potorti was the vice president at Marsh & McLennan and had a strong connection to geology, having begun his career with the U.S. Geological Survey. According to the PRI, the walks honor his legacy as both a passionate geologist and a local community member.
Each week, sta from the PRI will guide the interpretive walks. Walks will occur each Friday morning in August from 10 to 11:30 a.m. e walks are free and open to the public, but there is o en a small fee for parking at state parks.
Rob Ross, Associate Director for Outreach at PRI and one of the guides for the gorge walks, said the walks see attendees who are local and many who are traveling in the area, both of whom have the common interest of learning more about the Finger Lakes gorges.
One of the main purposes of the gorge walks is to educate and inform people on the history of why the Finger Lakes region is home to so many gorges, Ross explained. He said that this history is what draws such a wide variety of attendees.
e walks will be at the following locations:
Friday, Aug. 2: Buttermilk Falls State Park
Meeting Point: Main entrance (Rt 13), next to the swimming area at the bottom of Buttermilk Falls
Friday, Aug. 9: Denison Falls at the Cayuga Nature Center
Meeting Point: In front of the Nature Center Lodge
Friday, Aug. 16: Watkins Glen State Park
Meeting Point: Main (lower) entrance, at the end of the parking lot near the trail Friday, Aug. 23: Robert H. Treman State Park
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“People primarily attend because they’re fascinated by the shape of the gorges and the landscape of the Finger Lakes Region, which is all due to the remarkable geological history of our area,” Ross said. “I think the importance of understanding the gorges is di erent for di erent audiences.”
Not each walk will be the same, as each walk will occur at a di erent gorge and include di erent elements of education, with acknowledgement that many gorges share similar history.
“We enjoy using the gorges to talk about that history,” Ross said. “Each gorge is a little different, so we can focus on slightly different aspects of that history. On the other hand, all of the gorges have something in common about both the bedrock within them and the reason that the gorges are there, so each gorge walk has some common elements.”
Meeting Point: Upper Treman Park, at the end of the parking lot near the start of the trails
If you’re unable to attend the gorge walks, there are still more opportunities to learn about the local gorges. ere is a special exhibit at PRI’s Museum of the Earth called NY Rocks!, which dives into the bedrock geology and fossils of Upstate New York, with an online version available as well. e PRI website “Earth@ Home” has a section on Finger Lakes Geology and Natural History and the PRI has YouTube videos on Fall Creek, Cascadilla Creek and Six Mile Creek on their YouTube channel. All online materials can be found at earthathome.org, museumo heearth.org and youtube.com/@ paleontologicalresearchins9790/.
Rob Ross leads one of the James Potorti Gorge Walks from a previous year. (Photo: Provided/Paleontological Research Institution)
ITHACA PROPOSES
continued from page 3
of speed bumps on a downtown street. “There was always a conflict between the authority of the Common Council and the authority of the DPW. This sometimes created legislative nightmares where it wasn’t clear whose decision was final,” he said. Nguyen supports the report’s approach to creating a clear decision-making process.
City Manager Deb Mohlenhoff expressed optimism about the proposed changes, describing the BPW as a “rubber stamp agency.” She stated, “The new commission model proposed in this report is designed to create more robust discussions and public input, without the conflicts of
COMMON COUNCIL APPROVES
scope was essential to fully implementing the reimagining public safety plan. “I think it’s best that we go broad,” Matos said. She noted that a broader scope would prevent the city from having to “bring it back in front of Council and change [the description] a little bit” multiple times.
Mayor Robert Cantelmo also defended
authority we faced before.”
The council unanimously agreed to circulate the report to gather feedback before any final decisions are made. Mayor Robert Cantelmo emphasized the importance of not rushing the process, stating, “This is not a thing that should be rushed, but it is a high priority if the council wants to move in this direction.”
The executive summary of the report highlights the need to enhance transparency, efficiency, and responsiveness in public works management. By dissolving the BPW and forming the new commission, the working group aims to address decision-making authority issues and ensure public input in public works policy.
The working group is confident that
the broad scope of the position, emphasizing that it was the culmination of a lengthy process to address various aspects of public safety in Ithaca. He cautioned against narrowing the scope at this late stage, suggesting that doing so would undermine the extensive work already done.
“For us to send this back at this stage does a disservice to all the members of the community who have been investing their time, their emotional labor, their stories, to help the city, very slowly, get to a place
the proposed governance structure will preserve the benefits of the BPW while eliminating its challenges. This legislation would enable the public and the city to better understand each other’s limitations and imperatives, allowing the council to make well-informed decisions regarding public works issues.
The working group recommends finalizing and approving the legislation in 2024, permitting a referendum in 2025. The dissolution of the BPW will require a referendum, and the city plans to seek public and staff feedback to ensure broad support and understanding. The next steps involve incorporating feedback from the public and city staff before any final legislative actions are taken.
where it’s ready to move forward and try something new,” Cantelmo said.
The role is expected to substantially impact the functioning of city government by ensuring that public safety reforms are carried out correctly.
One significant point of discussion has been the relationship between the position and the Ithaca Police Department (IPD). While the new role will oversee IPD crisis response efforts, it will not alter the police chief's direct reporting structure. Instead, the position
GREENSTAR WORKERS SEEK TO UNIONIZE
continued from page 4
about workplace democracy and being able to participate in decisions affecting us.” GreenStar employee Aaron Spayth emphasized the importance of being heard without fear of retribution. “In many workplaces, it’s hard to voice grievances and have them heard and dealt with. That’s not something we’ve been short of at GreenStar, and having the voice to go to management without fear of being brushed off or gaslit is crucial,” Spayth said. “Empowering us to feel comfortable and safe to voice our concerns makes a huge difference.”
will ensure robust collaboration between the unarmed response unit and traditional law enforcement, integrating efforts to provide a comprehensive public safety strategy.
The Council's next steps include recruiting applicants and conducting interviews before making a final choice. The selection committee will include the City Manager, Acting City Attorney, Mayor, and HR Director. In previous meetings, the council has said that the goal is to hire someone by late August.
Event Held
9AM - 1PM
to collect water samples from the shoreline three times each year.
CSI performs in-lake monitoring as well. Through our Journey of Water series for kids, CSI collaborates with Discover Cayuga Lake (DCL) to take youth and their families out onto the lake to collect water samples. Samples are collected at locations such as the outfall of wastewatertreatment facilities and the lake source cooling facility. Samples are taken as far north as Myers point. These Water Quality Monitoring Cruises take place three times each year. The data collected during these cruises can be accessed here. Not only is this a critical piece of data collection, it is also a wonderful opportunity to engage kids in the science of water quality monitoring in the hopes that we may inspire a future generation of water stewards. When it comes to water quality monitoring in our beloved swimming areas, CSI is doing the work there too. CSI is proud to partner with Finger Lakes State Parks to perform weekly E.coli testing for swimming areas during the parks’ swimming season. Every Monday, park employees drive to CSI’s lab in Ithaca to deliver samples for testing. We provide the parks with next day results. If a swimming area tests above 235 colonies/100 mL (NYSDOH Contact Recreation Limit), the park must close the swimming area. The swimming area cannot reopen until the E.coli levels have dropped below the contact recreation limit. NYS Parks has a
DREAMING OF AMERICA
English together. This is another wonderful program that was offered to us.”
While Inna was studying English the boys were next enrolled in Northeast Elementary School and they have thrived there. “Our boys love school and this summer they have been enrolled in a lively camp which they adore…our youngest son now speaks English at home!”
As Inna bravely emphasizes how kind their new friends in Ithaca have been, she also uncomplainingly describes the challenges she faces every day: “Our city Zaporizhzhia was hard hit at the beginning of the war. All of our friends and our family were affected. It is a dangerous territory because it is about 30 kilometers away from the occupied territories. Every day russia sends missiles to Zaporizhzhia, and to the whole country, destroying more and more of our beloved country. Our own family is now scattered: My sister and her family remained in Germany, and my mother and
useful map where park visitors can see which swimming areas are open or closed and also view the results of their weekly E.coli test. In addition to the work being done by CSI and our volunteers, there are several other organizations monitoring water quality in Cayuga Lake. Our partners at the Cayuga Lake Watershed Network (CLWN) and Discover Cayuga Lake (DCL) participate in the Citizen Statewide Lake Assessment Program (CSLAP). CSLAP is a volunteer lake monitoring and education program that is managed by NYSDEC and the NYS Federation of Lake Associations (NYSFOLA). CSLAP monitoring in Cayuga Lake started in 2002 and is essential for understanding the health of our lake and appropriate actions to protect it. The data is critical information used in the DEC’s 2018 Finger Lakes Water Quality Report, which is currently being updated with new data through 2023. CLWN currently sponsors four sites and recruits CSLAP volunteers for Cayuga Lake. CSLAP volunteers are trained by NYSFOLA to collect water quality data and samples twice a month from June through September. The current sampling sites include the far north end, two mid-lake points, and the southern shelf of Cayuga Lake. The south shelf site near Ithaca is monitored by DCL from their familiar community tour boat, the M.V. Teal. Over twelve water quality parameters are collected from surface water at all sites as well as at depth at the mid-lake sites. You can learn more about CSLAP and find data reports at the NYSFOLA webpage.
Finally, in addition to managing
my husband’s grandmother returned to the Ukraine from Germany. Even though life in the Ukraine is dangerous and very difficult with so many towns, villages and cities, utilities, supply lines destroyed, they could not adjust to living in foreign countries at their ages. Every Ukrainian has lost loved ones, knows of the devastation and the many injured Ukrainians who live in the war zone. Our fears and concerns for the Ukraine is with us every day.”
Once Inna was able to speak English, which she speaks beautifully, she was determined to use her skills to obtain a job. With Ukrainian degrees in Accounting and Auditing and the Ukrainian equivalent of a Master’s Degree she is energetically seeking work. Open Door English linked Inna with Cornell’s Center for Transformative Action, where Inna successfully interned in the financial department. Numbers and accounting are so universal.
Yurii, an experienced machinist, was able to obtain a temporary position as a machinist in a program that is affiliated with Cornell.
CSLAP, NYSDEC engages in routine monitoring through the Rotating Integrated Basin Studies (RIBS) program and the Water Assessments by Volunteer Evaluators (WAVE) program. For more information on NYSDEC’s monitoring programs, I encourage readers to visit the NYSDEC webpage on water quality monitoring.
In summary, it is not true that “there is no testing of the water in the Inlet and there never has been”. It is not true that “no one is testing for E.coli [in Cayuga Lake]”. Hundreds of volunteers with CSI, CLWN, and DCL have worked diligently for years to collect these data, often braving difficult conditions and sacrificing their free time to do so. There are over 85,000 Cayuga Lake watershed water quality data items from 2002 –present available on CSI’s Streams and Lakes Database. I highly encourage anyone who is curious about water quality on Cayuga Lake and its tributaries to visit CSI’s database to explore the data for themselves. Through CSI’s database and the other resources shared in this article, residents and visitors to the Cayuga Lake watershed can feel empowered to make informed decisions about the safety of recreation in these waterbodies.
For those concerned about litter across our watershed, CLWN hosts a litter cleanup program called “Embrace the Lake!”. This year, CLWN partnered with 12 organizations and volunteer groups who worked to cleanup our local waterways, keeping literal tons of garbage out of our streams and lakes. Highlights include over 60 volunteers who collected 1,800
Inna and Yurii and their boys are very eager to remain in Ithaca, since they feel this is a wonderful community, and their boys are doing well in their fine school. However, in order to apply to the US Immigration and Naturalization Service (INS) for an Immigrant Visa “Green Card,” (which would allow Inna and Yurii to live in the United States, subject to renewals), one adult must first obtain full-time work with benefits soon, so they can take the next steps with INS to stay in America.
Under the Welcome US Ukraine program this process enables approved Ukrainians to travel to the United States, and to remain in the U.S. for a period of up to 2 years. During that time they are eligible to apply for employment authorization while in the United States. And for Inna and Yurii the time they are permitted to remain in the US grows shorter each day as they seek work.
And all of this also depends on finding an American to sponsor them! (https://welcome. us/become-a-sponsor/sponsor-ukrainians)
In the meantime, Anna and Yurii focus
pounds of trash from their roadsides and drainage ditches for Newfield Greenup Day, and 13 volunteers removed 700 pounds of trash from the Finger Lakes Land Trust new Etna Preserve along Fall Creek. To organize a clean-up, contact programs@cayugalake.org. CLWN will help you promote your event, and can provide clean-up materials, such as trash bags, gloves, trash grabbers, and more. The Clean Water Act calls for citizen involvement in water quality issues. I encourage all readers who are passionate about our shared water resources to engage with Community Science Institute and our partner organizationssuch as Cayuga Lake Watershed Network and Discover Cayuga Lake. Volunteer with us, become a member of our organizations, subscribe to our email lists, use our outreach and education materials, and tell your friends and family about these organizations doing important work to monitor and protect water quality. Another great way to get involved is to see if your municipality or county has a committee dedicated to water quality or water resource protection. I am inspired by the work that local governments and agencies such as Tompkins County Soil and Water Conservation District are doing to protect water quality.
As I wrap up this article, I want to thank and acknowledge the hard work and dedication of the volunteers who have made this data collection possible. I am grateful to be a part of a community that cares so deeply about our unique freshwater resources in the Finger Lakes region.
on all that they are grateful for, and try not to worry about what they will lose if they cannot obtain a Green Card. Inna: “We think that summer in Ithaca is very beautiful. Our boys attend the Project Innovation Camp at Belle Sherman Elementary School, a wonderful, fun program. We study, we work, we seek essential employment, so we can take the next step.
“I would like to express our gratitude to all those who support Ukraine and Ukrainians in such a difficult time for them! Ithaca is full of kind people! Ithaca Welcomes Refugees, Open Doors English, Global Roots, Catholic Charities have been so generous and helpful. We thank all of you, especially Reverend Kirianne Weaver, who has been incredibly kind to us and is our best friend!”
Many Ithacans have had the good fortune to meet Ukrainians in this region, and we can all see how they enrich our community with their resilience, excellent work ethic, and good spirits. Ukrainians are working throughout this region and add so much to the local economy by their fine work.
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8/14 Wednesday
Mill Park Music Series: Square
Dance w/ caller Mark Faris | 6 p.m. | Mill Park, 222 Main St | Free
Music on the Green: Doc Weismore & Real Country | 7 p.m. | Homer Village Green | Free
Taillight Rebellion | | The Downstairs
8/15 Thursday
Summer Concert Series: Chasin
Crazy | 5:30 p.m. | Watkins Glen International, 2790 Co Rte 16, Sarah Noell | 5:30 p.m. | South Hill Cider, 550 Sandbank Road
The Small Kings/ Terrapin Station | 6 p.m. | Bernie Milton Pavilion, Center Commons | Free
Diana Leigh Duo | 6 p.m. | Dano’s Heuriger on Seneca, 9564 Route 414 | Free
Music in the Park: Bad Alibi | 6:30 p.m. | Myers Park
Summer Concert Series in Courthouse Park: Cortland Old Timers
Band | 7 p.m. | Courthouse Park, Church Street | Free
8/16 Friday
Friday Sunset Music Series - ft.
Unoriginal Gravity |6:30 | Wagner Vineyards, 9322 State Route 414
Double Tiger | 5:30 p.m. | South Hill Cider, 550 Sandbank Road
City Limits | 5:30 p.m. | Hazlitt 1852 Vineyards, 5712 RT-414, | Free Hustle Souls | 6 p.m. | Treleaven Wines Hangtime Main Stage, 658 Lake Rd | $15.00 - $20.00
Luke Hart, Jake Merrill, Kat Link, Daniel Zawel & Owen Erickson | 8 p.m., |The Downstairs, 121 W. M.L.K. Jr. St. | $0.00 - $10.00
8/17 Saturday
Rick Horton x Practice at Presents: Mill Bastards, Dredneks, Fox 45, Big Scary Indian, Shrouded Prey | 6 p.m. | Deep Dive Ithaca, 415 Old Taughannock Blvd | $10.00
Village Swing Residency | | The Downstairs, 121 W. M.L.K. Jr. St.
8/18 Sunday
Jazz Guitar Brunch with Dennis Winge | 10:30 a.m. | Antlers Restaurant, 1159 Dryden Rd. | Free Summer Sundays Music Series: Doug & Eamonn Hubert | 1 p.m. | Wagner Vineyards, 9322 State Route 414
Killdeer Trio & Chris Ri e | | The Downstairs, 121 W. M.L.K. Jr. St.
8/19 Monday
Jazz Mondays with MAQ | 5:30 p.m. | South Hill Cider, 550 Sandbank Road Johnny Dowd Band & Go Go Boy | | The Downstairs, 121 W. State St.
8/20 Tuesday
Music in the Hollow: SCUBA Jerry| 6 p.m. | Ellis Hollow Community Center, 111 Genung Road | Free
8/21 Wednesday
Mill Park Music Series: Cast Iron Cowboys | 6 p.m. | Mill Park, 222 Main Street | Free Fire y Trio | 6 p.m. | Deep Dive Ithaca, 415 Old Taughannock Blvd | Free
Music on the Green: -The Silver Wings | 7 p.m. | Homer Village Green | Free
Taillight Rebellion | | The Downstairs
Concerts/Recitals
8/16 Friday
Ashley McBryde | 8 p.m. | Tioga Downs, 2384 West River Rd | $30.00 - $60.00
8/17 Saturday
Violent Femmes | 6 p.m. | Beak & Ski Apple Orchards, 2708 Lords Hill Road
Cooper Alan Live In Concert | 7:30 p.m. | First Arena, 155 North Main Street, Elmira| $30.00
Skaneateles Festival: An Evening with Chris Thile | 8 p.m. | Robinson Pavilion at Anyela’s Vineyards, 2433 West Lake Rd
Stage
Beauty And The Beast | 2 p.m., 8/14 Wednesday | Cortland Repertory Theatre in Little York Pavilion, 6799 Little York Lake Road | July 31 - August 17 Music by Alan Menken Lyrics by Howard Ashman & Tim Rice Book by Linda Woolverton
Rev Theatre Company presents: Bandstand- The Musical | 8/14 Wednesday | Merry-Go-Round Playhouse, 17 William St, 2nd Floor | Check website for speci c show times. It’s 1945 and our boys are coming home! Bandstand tells the story of musician Donny Novitski who is about to take on the mission of his life: leading his band of fellow veterans into competition for America’s next swing band sensation.
Encore Shorts III: The Briefs Edition A Collection of One-Act Comedies | 7:30 p.m., 8/16 Friday | Arena Theatre , 9706 Congress St Extension | Eight directors and seventeen actors join forces to perform a collection of seven short one-act plays that explore a variety of relationships, family bonds, and ties to friends in the midst of rendezvous planned, impromptu or happenstance.
Art
EMPHASIS : Space + Time | 11 a.m., 8/14 Wednesday | Corners Gallery, 903 Hanshaw Road | EMPHASIS: Space + Time features sculptures by Jamie Banes and paintings by Rosalyn Richards | Free
Seeing Ithaca: through the eyes of artists | 12 p.m., 8/15 Thursday | State of the Art Gallery, 120 West State Street | Member artists at SOAG organized Seeing Ithaca through the Eyes of Artists to promote the area and invite nonmember artists to participate. | Free Ithaca Artist Market | 12 p.m., 8/16 Friday | Ithaca Farmers Market, 545 Third Street, Ithaca NY 14850 | Join us for the 32nd annual Ithaca Artist Market, a juried show and sale of ne and functional art. | Free
Unveiling of Statues of Lucy Brown and Frances Perkins | 10 a.m., 8/17 Saturday | Breckenridge Place Apartments (Cayuga Street Side), 100 W. Seneca Street | Unveiling ceremony for two statues by celebrated artist Meredith Bergmann of women who lived in Ithaca: Frances Perkins, the rst woman U.S. Cabinet Secretary and architect of the New Deal and Lucy Brown, a co-founder of Ithaca Neighborhood Housing Services and lifelong social justice advocate. | Free
The Gallery at South Hill exhibit “Dreams and Nightmares | 12 p.m., 8/17 Saturday | The Gallery at South Hill, 950 Danby Road | Janet Locke and Andreas Enciso Oddy are from di erent generations and wanted to come together in their two person show titled Dreams and Nightmares to present their work as a cohesive body that takes on the sleeping world in their imagery. | Free
Mask Monday at Museum of the Earth | 10 a.m., 8/19 Monday | Museum of the Earth, 1259 Trumansburg Road (Route 96) | We recognize that some guests may feel more comfortable visiting the museum while all others are wearing masks, and we will o er “Mask Monday” on the third Monday of each month at Museum of the
Film
Beat the Heat Summer Movie Screening: Little Shop of Horrors | 5:30 p.m., 8/21 Wednesday | Tompkins County Public Library, 101 East Green Street |
Cinemapolis
120 E. Green St., Ithaca Films opening August 16th.
Contact Cinemapolis for showtimes and additional lms.
Didi* | In 2008, during the last month of summer before high school begins, an impressionable 13-year-old Taiwanese American boy learns what his family can’t teach him: how to skate, how to irt, and how to love your mom.| R 93 mins
Made in England: The Films of Powell and Pressburger* |Features rare archival material from the personal collections of Powell, Pressburger and Scorsese.| NR 131 mins
FingerLakes Drive-In
1064 Clark Street Road, Auburn Gate opens one hour before the movies begin. Schedule for Friday, 8/16 & Saturday, 8/17.
Alien: Romulus | 8:45 PM | 119 mins R | While scavenging the deep ends of a derelict space station, a group of young space colonizers come face to face with the most terrifying life form in the universe.
Deadpool & Wolverine | 10:30 PM | 127 mins
Special Events
Central NY Farm Fest ‘24 | 12 p.m., 8/18 Sunday | Finger Lakes Cider House, 4017 Hickok Road | This free, family-friendly event celebrates the CNY farming community and includes farm tours, u-pick, live music, & local food & drink. | Free
2024 Trumansburg Fair | 8/20 Tuesday | Trumansburg Fairgrounds, 2150 Trumansburg Road |
Sports
SCDA- Watkins Glen- 2 Day Track Event| Aug. 19-20 | Watkins Glen International, 2790 County Route 16 | Ithaca Women’s Soccer vs Oneonta - Scrimmage | 6 p.m., 8/20 Tuesday | Butter eld Stadium | Ithaca Women’s Soccer vs OneontaIthaca Men’s Soccer vs University of Rochester - Scrimmage | 2:30 p.m., 8/21 Wednesday | Carp Wood Field | I
Books
Reading Widely Book Club: Quicksand | 5 p.m., 8/15 Thursday | Bu alo Street Books, 215 North Cayuga Street | Join us for our monthly book club led by community members and local literati. This month we’ll be reading Quicksand by Nella Larsen. | Free Teen Summer Creative Writing Workshop | 4:30 p.m., 8/16 Friday | Tompkins County Public Library, 101
CFCU SUMMER CONCERT SERIES: THE SMALL KINGS AND TERRAPIN STATION
THURSDAY, AUGUST 15TH AT 6:00 PM
Bernie Milton Pavilion, Ithaca
| The
32ND ANNUAL ITHACA ARTIST MARKET
FRIDAY, AUG 16TH, 12:00 PM-7:30 PM
Ithaca Farmers Market, 545 3rd St, Ithaca | Let’s try this again! The market was rescheduled to this Friday from last week because of Hurricane Debby. (It was a good decision!) Spread the word. Bring friends. (Photo: visitithaca.com)
Commons
Small Kings (pictured) will kick o the concert followed by Terrapin Station, Ithaca’s premier Grateful Dead tribute band, who will play at 7:00. (Photo: Provided)
East Green Street | Love to write your own stories? Have ideas for your own characters and worlds, or an interest in writing fan ction? Join Adrienne Raw for a Teen Creative Writing Workshop!
The Bookish Club and Book Exchange | 3 p.m., 8/17 Saturday | The Whimsy Mercantile, 2075 East Shore Drive | Join others to discuss what you’re currently reading, what you want to read, and past books that have made an impression. | Free Comic Book Club Meeting “Drawing 101!” | 7 p.m., 8/20 Tuesday | Tompkins County Public Library, 101 East Green Street | Ever drawn from an upside-down model sheet? It’s fun whatever you think of your current level of drawing skill, and it’s a neat glimpse into how your brain works. Model sheets, drawing paper, and pencils will all be provided. Don’t worry if you think you can’t draw; just drop by anyway, and draw! | Free
Kids
Pop-Up and Play with the YMCA | 11 a.m., 8/14 Wednesday | Trumansburg Farmers’ Market, 69 W Main Street | Run, jump, and play at a YMCA in YOUR backyard! The Ithaca Y is traveling across Tompkins County to bring fun to families this summer.
Animal Feeding | 4 p.m., 8/14 Wednesday | Sciencenter, 601 1st St | Join an Animal Keeper to observe snakes, lizards, frogs, and sh snacking on their preferred prey.
Family Board Game Club | 4 p.m., 8/14 Wednesday | Tompkins County Public Library, 101 East Green Street | Join us for Family Board Game Club!
Journey of Water: Stream Biomonitoring Fun | 5:30 p.m., 8/14
Wednesday | Robert H. Treman State Park- UPPER TREMAN GORGE TRAILHEAD, 143 Upper Park Rd | Look under rocks in 2 park streams and learn how the bugs we nd tell us about water quality there. Part of Community Science Institute free programming for kids and families exploring ways that water cycles through our local ecosystems and community. communityscience.org/journeyofwater to register | Free Science Together: Magnet Fishing | 10:30 a.m., 8/15 Thursday | Sciencenter, 601 1st St | Sort and count the sh you catch!
Kids and Tweens: Super Smash Bros. Ultimate Tournament | 4 p.m., 8/15 Thursday | Tompkins County Public Library, 101 East Green Street | TCPL is hosting a Super Smash Bros. Ultimate Tournament for Kids and Tweens (ages 8-12!) Register to claim your spot in the bracket.
Summer Baby & Toddler Storytime | 10:30 a.m., 8/16 Friday | Tompkins County Public Library, 101 East Green Street | Caregivers and their children are invited to join Cassie for songs, rhymes, movement and books at the park next to the Henry St. John Building at 301 S. Geneva St. Movies in the Park - “Men In Black” | 7 p.m., 8/16 Friday | Stewart Park, 1 James L Gibbs Drive | The tenth season of “Movies in the Park” takes place every Friday in August. Hosted by the Tompkins County Chamber of Commerce and CNY Attractions, it’s free, family-friendly fun for anyone interested! | Free Cass Park Friday Family Fun Roller Skating | 8/16 Friday | Cass Park Rink, 701 Taughannock Blvd | Roller Skating Nights are back at Cass Park Rink! Join us for Friday Night Roller Skate Sessions throughout spring, summer, and fall.
Fossil ID Day | 10 a.m., 8/17 Saturday | Museum of the Earth, 1259 Trumansburg Road (Route 96) | Did you nd a rock in your backyard? Do you think it might be a fossil? Museum of the Earth is here to help!
Family Storytime | 11 a.m., 8/17
Saturday | Tompkins County Public Library, 101 East Green Street | Children of all ages and their caregivers are invited to celebrate reading and build their early literacy skills at Family Storytime. We meet each Saturday for stories, songs and hands-on fun.
Animal Ambassador Encounters | 12 p.m., 8/17 Saturday | Cayuga Nature Center, 1420 Taughannock Blvd | Nature Center Educators will bring out a few animals for visitors to visit with and discuss their adaptations, personalities, and more! | Free Cold Show | 2 p.m., 8/17 Saturday | Sciencenter, 601 1st St | Get ready for some freezing fun! We’ll explore states of matter and how temperature a ects materials as we explore dry ice.
Science Together: Bubbles | 10:30 a.m., 8/20 Tuesday | Sciencenter, 601 1st St | Blow bubbles and make
observations about how they shine and oat!
Notices
Pearls of Wisdom Senior Support Group | 11 a.m., 8/14 Wednesday | 171 E. State Street | Pearls of Wisdom Senior Support Group | Free Business After Hours at Library Place | 4:30 p.m., 8/14 Wednesday | Library Place, 105 West Court St. | Join us for our August Business After Hours at Library Place! Library Place is a locally and family-owned 55+ community in downtown Ithaca. | $10.00 Trivia! | 7 p.m., 8/14 Wednesday | Liquid State Brewery, 620 West Green Street. | Trivia Night with Bob Proehl at Liquid State! | Free Doug’s Fish Fry at Eddydale | 11 a.m., 8/15 Thursday | Eddydale , 827 Elmira Rd | Doug’s Fish Fry will be at Eddydale on Thursday, Aug 15 from 11am-6pm to bene t New eld Old Home Days!
Freeville Farmer’s Market | 4:30 p.m., 8/15 Thursday | Hopshire Farm & Brewery, 1771 Dryden Rd | Find local food and products at the market every Thursday 4:30-6:30 PM, from June to September. Food o ered by Scooter’s BBQ.
Three Bears Summer Concert Series 2024 | 6 p.m., 8/15 Thursday |
Three Bears, 7175 North Main Street | Weekly concerts on the lawn of the Three Bears Historic Courthouse Complex in Ovid. Concerts take place on Thursdays after the Ovid Farmer’s Market. | Free Beginner Bird Walks | 8:30 a.m., 8/17 Saturday | Cornell Lab of Ornithology, 159 Sapsucker Woods Rd. | Beginner Bird Walks every Sat. & Sun. 8:30am at Lab of Ornithology on Sapsucker Woods Rd. https:// cayugabirdclub.org/beginner-birdwalks | Free
Homer Regional Farmers Market & Gathering Grounds Cafe | 9:30 a.m., 8/17 Saturday | Center for the Arts of Homer, 72 S Main St | Open weekly on Saturday mornings from Spring to Fall with live entertainment,farm goods, crafts, and fresh food in a festive community atmosphere.
Walk-in Hours - Research Library | 8/17 Saturday | The History Center in Tompkins County, 401 East State Street | Saturday Open Hours - Research Library will be open to walk-in visitors on Saturdays from 10:00-3:00 for limited research access.
Ithaca Farmers Market Saturday at the Pavilion | 8/17 Saturday | Ithaca Farmers Market, Steamboat Landing, 545 3rd St | Ithaca Farmers Market is thrilled to welcome back our loyal customers and new visitors with
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Food Addicts in Recovery Anonymous | 4 p.m., 8/18 Sunday, 518 W. Seneca St., Ithaca | Are you having trouble controlling the way you eat?
Food Addicts in Recovery Anonymous (FA) is a free Twelve Step recovery program for anyone su ering from food obsession, overeating, under-eating or bulimia. No dues. No fees. Everyone is welcome. Sundays 4pm. Contact 607-351-9504 foodaddicts.org | Free Tree Buds Tree Phenology Walk | 3 p.m., 8/19 Monday | Cayuga Nature Center, 1420 Taughannock Blvd. | Be our tree “buds” and join our weekly citizen science walk to observe and collect data on seasonal changes in trees. | Free
Ithaca Farmers Market at Dewitt Park | 11 a.m., 8/20 Tuesday | Dewitt Park, 102 E Court St | Downtown Tuesday Market is Back! | Free
Sneaker Tap Tuesday | 6:30 p.m., 8/20 Tuesday | The Whimsy Mercantile, 2075 East Shore Drive | As the title says, all you need is a pair of sneakers to tap dance. There’s no special equipment required. You don’t need tap experience or even dance experience to join in. | $5.00
Horseheads American Legion Blood Drive | 12:30 p.m., 8/21 Wednesday | Horseheads American
Legion, 71 Old Ithaca Road | Join us for a crucial blood drive on August 21st! All donors will receive a $20 Amazon gift card as a thank you for their generosity. | Free Montour Moose Lodge Blood Drive | 1 p.m., 8/21 Wednesday | Montour Moose Lodge #426, 2096 State Route 14 | Join us for a crucial blood drive on August 21st! All donors will receive a $20 Amazon gift card as a thank you for their generosity. | Free Beat the Heat Summer Movie Screening: Little Shop of Horrors | 5:30 p.m., 8/21 Wednesday | Tompkins County Public Library, 101 East Green Street | GreenStar Gigs | 6 p.m., 8/21 Wednesday | GreenStar Food Co+op, 770 Cascadilla St. | Live music, Tap & Craft, food and fun. Schedule online at greenstar.coop/greenstar-gigs | Free Planning & Economic Development Committee Meeting | 6 p.m., 8/21 Wednesday | Common Council- Committee of the Whole Study Session | 6 p.m., 8/21 Wednesday | Common Council Chambers, 3rd Floor City Hall 108 E Green St | Cortland Free Library Board of Trustees Meeting | 6:30 p.m., 8/21 Wednesday | Cortland Free Library, 32 Church St | Members of the public who wish to speak during the public
BackPage
A Vibrant, Active Community Center
For Learning, Activities, Social Groups
And More! For Adults 50+
Lifelong
119 West Court St., Ithaca 607-273-1511 tclifelong.org
AAM
ALL ABOUT MACS
Macintosh Consulting
http://www.allaboutmacs.com (607) 280-4729
*Acupuncture Works* Peaceful Spirit Acupuncture
Anthony R. Fazio, L.Ac., D.A.O.M.(c) www.peacefulspiritacupuncture.com 607-272-0114
ANIMALS
LAND & SEA
FingerLakesAnimalRights.org
CLEANING SERVICES
http://www.cleanswithus.com
JANITORIAL* DEEP CLEANINGS * INDEPENDENCE CLEANERS CORP
Call 607-697-3294
Everyone Is Welcome Shop at the COOP Full Service Grocery Store
GREENSTAR FOOD CO+OP 770 Cascadilla St., Ithaca
Finger Lakes Dermatology
Brad Yentzer, MD, FAAD 607-708-1330 fingerlakesderm.com
FLYITHACA.COM
Convenient-Clean-Connected
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LOOKING FOR WORK
WE ARE HIRING VISIT US ONLINE www.wgaforchildren.org or call 607-844-6460 THE WILLIAM GEORGE AGENCY
Looking to Boost your FALL Business?
Call Larry at 607-277-7000 ext: 1214
Find out about great advertising ad packages at: Ithaca.com & Ithaca Times
Looking to Boost your Summer Business?
Call Larry at 607-277-7000 ext: 1214
Find out about great advertising ad packages at: Ithaca.com & Ithaca Times
front@ithactimes.com
Men’s and Women’s Alterations for over 20 years
Fur & Leather repair, zipper repair. Same Day Service Available
John’s Tailor Shop
John Serferlis - Tailor 102 The Commons 273-3192
PIANOS
Rebuilt, Reconditioned, Bought, Sold, Moved Tuned, Rented
Complete Rebuilding Services
No job too big or too small
Ithaca Piano Rebuilders (607) 272-6547
950 Danby Rd, Suite 26
South Hill Business Campus, Ithaca
REAL LIFE
CEREMONIES
Every life story deserves to be told, and told well. Steve Lawrence, Celebrant 607-220-7938
REDUCE YOUR HEATING BILL
A FULL LINE OF VINYL REPLACEMENT WINDOWS.
Call for Free Estimate & Professional Installation
Custom made & Manufactured by SOUTH SENECA VINYL Romulus, NY 315-585-6050 or 866-585-6050
www.SouthSenecaWindows.com
REDUCE YOUR HEATING BILL
A FULL LINE OF VINYL REPLACEMENT WINDOWS.
Call for Free Estimate & Professional Installation
Custom made & Manufactured by SOUTH SENECA VINYL Romulus, NY 315-585-6050 or 866-585-6050
www.SouthSenecaWindows.com