October 2, 2024

Ithaca Reviews $35 Million in Capital Projects for 2025, Focuses on Equity and Infrastructure Improvements

By Matt Dougherty

The City of Ithaca plans to spend $35 million on capital projects in 2025, focusing on infrastructure improvements, vehicle electrification, and support for vulnerable populations.

The Capital Projects Committee, led by City Manager Deb Mohlenhoff, presented an overview of the proposed projects to the Common Council as part of the city’s annual budgeting process during a recent meeting.

“This is just the start of the conversation,” Mohlenhoff told the council. “The goal is to give you an overwhelming amount of information now so that we have time to answer questions and make informed decisions.”

The $35 million spending plan includes 44 capital projects selected from an initial list of 76 projects totaling $97 million. These projects range from fire station renovations and youth services facility improvements to initiatives focused on climate justice communities under the city’s “Justice 50” framework.

Based on a consultant’s ongoing analysis, the largest planned expenditure is

$1 million for critical fire station renovations. The city’s fire stations require various upgrades, but the full cost of addressing all issues is estimated at $17 million. The city plans to complete the work in phases to prioritize the most urgent needs.

Other notable projects include $450,000 for the city’s low-barrier shelter, which is intended to support people experiencing homelessness. The city’s Justice 50 initiative elevated this project in importance, which prioritizes investments in vulnerable populations.

“The Justice 50 framework is working exactly as it should,” said Rebecca Evans,

X Ithaca Seeking New Owner For Historic Bridge

The City of Ithaca is seeking a new owner for the historic North Cayuga Street Bridge, a historically significant structure spanning Fall Creek that has been deemed structurally deficient.

The bridge was built in 1934 and is eligible for listing on the National Register of Historic Places (NRHP). While the bridge deck was replaced in 2002 and resurfaced in 2018, many other components are in poor condition.

The City of Ithaca estimates that the cost of demolishing the bridge would be around $600,000 — not including the removal of lead-based paint, which would be necessary to comply with EPA regulations. However, potential new owners can accept liability for the lead-based paint instead of removing it if they choose to keep the existing coating.

The City of Ithaca has offered potential funding up to the estimated cost of demolition to assist with the relocation or rehabilitation of the bridge. However, any federal funds used for preservation will disqualify the bridge from receiving future highway funding.

Anyone interested in buying the bridge must submit a comprehensive written plan outlining its proposed preservation,

Director of Sustainability. “It’s helping us prioritize projects that increase resources and services for our most vulnerable residents, like those experiencing homelessness.”

The capital spending also includes $230,000 annually for a new vehicle leasing program. The program aims to transition 35 city-owned vehicles to electric models by 2025, supporting Ithaca’s Green New Deal commitment to reduce the city’s fleet emissions by 50%.

“We found that leasing electric vehicles is more cost-effective than purchasing

Continued on Page 6

WEB

rehabilitation, and future use. This plan should include any desired modifications and an estimated cost and timeline for the work.

The plan must also preserve the bridge’s historic character as a condition of ownership, following guidelines set forth by the National Park Service. New owners will also need to commit to maintaining the structural integrity of the bridge’s superstructure, which has suffered from section losses in the gusset plates, steel trusses, and railing components.

Beyond preservation, prospective owners must assume full legal and financial responsibility for the bridge. This includes signing a “hold harmless” agreement to protect the City of Ithaca, NYSDOT, and the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) from future liabilities.

The new owner must also provide proof of their ability to financially sustain the bridge throughout its existence, including posting a performance bond to ensure compliance with these obligations.

Applicants must submit their proposals to purchase and remodel the bridge by November 18. For more information, contact Addisu Gebre at (607) 274-6530 or AGebre@cityofithaca.org

CORRECTION: The Ithaca Rotary Club would like to publish this clarification of their ad on page 19 in last week’s LAFF Gazette. The free lunch is offered by Rotary, not Coltivare. It is only for those Wednesdays when Rotary meets and is for guests interested in getting to know more about our club.

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City officals reveiw plans for $35 million in captial projects, which include infrastructure upgrades and community development initiatives related to transportation, public facilities, and sustainability improvements. (Photo: Matt Dougherty)

Cornell Graduate Student Union Demands Cornell Stop Momodou Taal’s

By Matt Dougherty

Cornell University graduate student and PhD candidate Momodou Taal faces suspension and potential deportation following what he and multiple student organizations claim is a targeted campaign by the university against him.

Taal, an international student attending Cornell on an F-1 visa, has been an outspoken participant in pro-Palestinian activism on campus. During a press conference on Saturday, Cornell Graduate Student Union (CGSU-UE) members, including Taal, explained that Cornell is circumventing both due process and the union’s collective bargaining agreement, thereby fast-tracking his deportation in violation of labor law.

At the press conference, Taal shared his experience with the university’s disciplinary process, stating that Cornell is intentionally targeting him based on his race, religion, and political activism. “I believe there is a targeted campaign against myself on this campus,” Taal said. “As someone who wears their faith proudly, as well as being a Black man in this country, these two identities are becoming increasingly unwelcome [at Cornell].”

Taal’s suspension comes in the wake of his participation in a student protest that shut down a career fair at the Statler Hotel that was attended by defense contractors Boeing and L3Harris, both of which manufacture weapons and technology used by the Israeli Defense Forces to commit acts of violence within occupied Palestinian Territories.

Despite the disciplinary action taken against him, Taal says Cornell has not provided any concrete evidence of his wrongdoing, nor has the university allowed him an opportunity for due process.

On the day of the protest in question, Taal was one of three students who gave a brief speech in front of Cornell’s Administrative building, Day Hall, before a crowd of roughly 100 students, faculty, and Ithaca locals marched to the Statler Hotel to disrupt the career fair. While the university claims that Taal participated in forcefully entering the building and leading chants inside that disrupted the event, Taal says that he was not involved.

“I have yet to have an investigation and yet to have my due process, which is afforded to me,” Taal said, expressing frustration that despite the university’s

vague allegations, he has not been given the chance to defend himself. “My particular charge sheet says I was part of a crowd that forced entry into a building or led chants, but I remain clear that those are not my actions, and I am more than willing to see any evidence of those things.”

Taal’s first appeal to overturn the disciplinary actions taken against him was rejected by Cornell’s VP of student and campus life, Ryan Lombardi. His enrollment at Cornell and his visa status now hinge on the results of his second appeal to the Provost. However, Taal says that it’s unclear when the Provost will make their final decision.

The CGSU argues that Cornell is violating a legally binding agreement signed in July 2024. This agreement requires the university to bargain with the union over any disciplinary actions that impact the working conditions of graduate student employees. The union claims that by unilaterally suspending Taal without engaging in these negotiations, Cornell is not only breaking its agreement but also threatening the rights of all graduate workers on campus.

Jenna Marvin, a third-year graduate student in Cornell’s History of Art and Visual Studies department, spoke about the union’s stance on the situation. “Cornell’s recent inclination towards discipline without due process or just cause standards for those most vulnerable, because of their political beliefs, race, religion, and visa status, is exactly why graduate workers voted overwhelmingly to form a union a year ago,” Marvin said.

She also highlighted Cornell’s failure to honor the memorandum of agreement (MOA) signed between the university and GCSU-UE in July, which was meant to protect workers from unilateral disciplinary action. “Cornell administration’s flagrant disregard of their legal obligation to bargain over Taal’s suspension, handed down without any hint of due process, is, quite frankly, a disgrace,” Marvin added, “Graduate workers teach Cornell students, develop research, and yet the administration does not think we have the right to speak against injustice.”

Ewa Nizalowska, a fourth-year PhD candidate in Cornell’s Government department and an international student herself, echoed the concerns raised by Marvin and Taal. Nizalowska emphasized how the university’s actions are especially chilling for international students, who

Deportation without Due Process

rely on their enrollment at Cornell to maintain their visa status. “Tal’s suspension serves as a chilling reminder of our enormous precarity in this country,” she said. “Cornell has the unilateral power to revoke our visa status, forcing us to leave the U.S. for expressing views that run contrary to the university’s point of view.”

Under U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) guidelines, universities have up to 21 days to report any change in an international student’s enrollment status, which would trigger the deportation process. However, CGSU and Taal allege that Cornell is choosing to act far more quickly as an intimidation tactic.

Taal reported that the university’s Office of Student Code of Conduct told him that his de-enrollment could occur as soon as this upcoming Tuesday or Wednesday and that he would have no grace period to remain in the U.S. once his enrollment status was revoked. “I have no grace period once my enrollment is closed, and I have to leave the country promptly,” Taal said.

The union argues that Cornell’s decision to expedite Taal’s deportation without following proper legal procedures or bargaining with CGSU could violate labor laws. They further contend that the university’s

actions threaten the protections granted to all graduate workers under the collective bargaining agreement and pose a severe threat to international students who desire to utilize their First Amendment rights. This case has also drawn attention at the national political level, with U.S. Senator Bernie Sanders recently calling on the university to reverse Taal’s suspension. In a post on X (formerly Twitter), Sanders said, “It is appalling that Cornell University appears ready to deport an international student without regard for due process, simply because of their presence at a protest. It is wrong, and I urge the university to reverse course immediately.”

In response to Sanders’ support, Taal said, “It’s important to have such a highlevel official see the lack of due process that Cornell is engaging in.” He added, “This is far beyond me. It’s about workers’ rights, students’ rights, and the ability to express yourself in this country safely and freely.” Cornell has not responded to media inquiries regarding allegations that disciplinary action was taken against Taal in violation of an agreement with the CGSU, but has reportedly taken disciplinary action

Cornell graduate student and PhD candidate Momodou Taal speaks to a crowd of students, faculty, and local Ithacans at a pro-Palestinian protest in front of Day Hall, Cornell’s Administrative building. (Photo: Matt Dougherty)

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

RE: North Cayuga Street Bridge

“The great extent of regulatory compliance described here, in regards to a bridge, also provides insight into the housing “shortage”. The only way to alleviate a housing shortage is to build more housing. But anyone who might build more housing is faced with a huge, ever changing, capricious and expensive set of government regulations and requirements that make such building prohibitively risky and expensive.” — Steven Baginski

RE: Starbucks Ordered To Reopen Ithaca Locations

“The judge’s ruling to force a corporation (and the humans running) it to operate against their will is a form of involuntary servitude. This violates the 13th amendment. Arguing that Starbucks’ closing of Ithaca stores is a "crime" is also a violation of the same 13th amendment; the government can’t tell someone (business owners or board members in this case) it

is illegal for them to not work on a specific task, then in response to they refusing to do that work charge them with that "crime". Then afterwards since they’ve committed that "crime" alleging that those 13th amendment protections no longer apply, so they can consequently legally be forced into laboring against their will. That is the definition of involuntary servitude. The 13th amendment protects everyone regardless of their title; slave, CEO, barista, board member, whatever.” —

Richard Ballantyne

“This needs to be put in context. Huge difference between an Article 3 judge in a court and an administrative law judge (ALJ) in an agency. No jury, and the AL:J works for the agency and is not an independent decider. All an ALJ does is recommend to the NLRB. The Board can accept, reject, or modify. Even NLRB confirmation of an ALJ award is not self enforcing. If Starbucks objects, the case will go to the US Court of Appeals for review which can be enforced. And in light of SCOTUS recent Lopez Bright decision ending virtually automatic deference to agencies, the case could still go to Starbucks. In any event, years ahead. By the time Starbucks might be required to reopen most of its student employees will be long gone from the area. Premature to declare a union victory.” —

Henry Kramer

“Hi Henry, the US Constitution is the supreme law of the land. Thus any laws that conflict with it need to be annulled or repealed. This includes so-called "well established" labor laws or whatever. It is unlawful for the government to compel non criminals to labor against their will. That is indentured servitude. It is also wrong for a government to pass and enforce unjust laws for the sole purpose of turning We the People into criminals just so that they can legally enslave us using the 13th amendment’s exception for "punishment of a crime". An argument can be made that conscription is also a violation of the 13th amendment. My personal opinion is that if a nation isn't sufficiently amazing that it cannot attract enough people to _voluntarily_ fight in its defense, then that nation has failed its citizens and is likely guilty of disrespecting individual liberty, excessive taxation, and other atrocities.”

— Richard Ballantyne

RE: Molinaro’s Support for Cryptocurrency Causes Inflation

“Cryptocurrency, a fad, benefits a few financial gamblers, produces no useful products, and adds financial instability to the banking sector. One recent study shows that 3/4 of investors in cryptocurrency have lost money.

This financial "gambling fad" requires excessive amounts of electricity supply. Generating a single Bitcoin "requires more than 2,000 kilowatt hours of electricity, or enough energy to power the average American household for 73 days." (NY Times 3/2/22)

A.I. recently emerged as a competitor to cryptocurrency, vying for America’s electricity resources. This competition for electricity causes inflation of electricity prices as resources are stretched thin.

Congressman Molinaro, joined a Republican cryptocurrency bill (cryptocurrency has illegally dodged US securities’ laws—essentially bribing politicians’ support) which pushes cryptocurrency into our economy’s mainstream. But we don’t have limitless electricity that we can waste! (Former Fed Chair Ben Bernanke points out this digital wastefulness of electricity in his book "21st century Monetary Policy").

Is inflation devouring you? Wait until finding adequate electricity resources causes THIS inflation to hit your electric bills! A.I. and cryptocurrency have become de facto "scavengers" of our electricity supply and are threatening even more inflation in the future.

By encouraging cryptocurrency, Molinaro is ensuring inflation of our electric bills.” — Dorothy Pomponio

IN UIRING PHOTOGR PHER Q A

By Mark Syvertson

QUESTION OF THE WEEK: BACK BY POPULAR DEMAND! THE INQUIRING PHOTOGRAPHER WANTS TO KNOW: WHO’S A GOOD DOG?

Walter

Sofia

Homer

Julie

Keith

The Talk at

UPS DOWNS&

Ups

Ithaca’s iconic State Theatre is set to receive a signi cant amount of funding from New York State.

Downs

Ithaca Police O cers arrested a suspect with 20 active warrants after he was spotted at this past weekend’s Apple Harvest Festival on the Ithaca Commons. Jones is facing several charges and is currently awaiting arraignment in the Ithaca City Court.

HEARD SEEN&

Heard

Average gasoline prices in New York have fallen 4.8 cents per gallon in the last week, averaging $3.20/g today, according to GasBuddy’s survey of 6,118 stations in New York. Prices in New York are 24.9 cents per gallon lower than a month ago and stand 65.6 cents per gallon lower than a year ago. The national average price of diesel has declined 1.2 cents in the last week and stands at $3.54 per gallon.

Seen

Cornell University researchers have created and released two new red raspberry varieties, called Crimson Beauty and Crimson Blush. Crimson Beauty is a large, bright red, glossy and vigorous variety with a strong avor that has a nutty tinge.Crimson Blush, on the other hand, was developed for the more traditional open eld system, but can also be grown in tunnels. The avorful fruit ripens later in the year, from September into November. Seeds for the two new varieties were made in 2016 and plants were rst grown in 2017.

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 IPD have more officers patrolling the Ithaca Commons?

83 . 7 % Yes . 11.9% No

4.4 % I don’t care.

N EXT W EEK ’S Q UESTION : Is Cornell’s decision to deport an international student for being involved in a protest a proportionate response from the university?

Visit ithaca.com to submit your response.

As Budget Officials Leave, Ithaca School District Searches for Next Administrator

By Maddy Vogel

As both administrators in charge of budget development at the Ithaca City School District (ICSD) have resigned in the past two months – potentially shaking up the year-long budget process – the district has launched a search for their next business o cial.

In August, the district’s second-highest paid employee and lead budget developer Amanda Verba resigned from her position as chief business executive. She has since started a new position at the nearby Trumansburg Central School District, taking a nearly 20% pay cut with the move.

Most recently, the board of education accepted the resignation of Sydney Wade without making a statement on her departure from the district during the public meeting. Wade served as the district’s assistant school business administrator for the past two years, having previously served as a school business o cial for the Candor Central School District for over 12 years. Verba had served ICSD for over 13 years.

Sean Eversley Bradwell, president of the ICSD board of education, and Garrick Blalock, chair of the board’s nance committee, thanked Verba and Wade for their service to the district in a statement sent to the Ithaca Times

“ICSD has not only lost two senior members of our business o ce but key members of our ICSD leadership team,” Bradwell and Blalock wrote. “As previously announced, Amanda Verba, former chief operations o cer, and Sydney Wade, ICSD’s assistant school business administrator, have both accepted positions in regional districts. Both individuals demonstrated admirable resilience and work ethics to steward the district through a challenging nancial year.”

ITHACA REVIEWS CAPITAL PROJECTS

continued from page 3

them,” Evans said. “We’re expecting to generate a surplus of about $90,000 in the rst year from selling existing gas-powered vehicles, which can help o set leasing costs.”

Other infrastructure-related projects include:

• $400,000 for Seneca Street Parking Garage repairs: addressing issues like broken windows, elevator malfunctions, and

As the school budget faced intense scrutiny this spring, especially in April — just one month before the public was scheduled to vote on it — o cials frequently reminded the community that budget planning is a year-long process. Administrators and board members have since been encouraging community members to get involved and share their thoughts earlier in the process as they move into a tight scal year. e district is facing the challenge of developing a budget that meets the school’s programming needs while not increasing the tax levy to an amount that is unsustainable for homeowners to a ord.

As Tompkins County property assessments continue to rise rapidly each year, the district must nd alternate revenue options to avoid a budget re-vote and subsequent sta and program reductions.

Le without an o cial business administrator, the district has temporarily assigned the duties of budget developers to Emily Shipe, district treasurer. Shipe previously served as the business manager

structural concerns.

• $450,000 for emergency facility repair funds to manage unanticipated building and infrastructure repairs across the city.

• $100,000 for new garbage trucks, part of the Department of Public Works’ vehicle replacement strategy.

One of the capital plan’s most important goals is to allocate at least 50% of funds toward projects that serve climate justice communities as part of the city’s Justice 50 framework. While the 2025 budget proposal allocates 46.4% to these communi-

at the Dryden Central School District.

“Filling this position is a priority,” Bradwell and Blalock wrote. “In the interim, we will rely on the strength of our business o ce team. Emily Shipe, current ICSD district treasurer and former business manager in a regional district, has more than graciously taken on additional duties until the position is lled.”

Bradwell and Blalock added that the district will be aided by consultants and partners at TST BOCES and stated that the district has already begun the yearlong development of the 2025-26 budget.

Although the search has only begun for one school business o cial, with a listed salary range of $150,000 to $190,000, Superintendent Luvelle Brown said that the district will eventually look to ll both positions le vacant as a result of the resignations.

“We are looking to ll two positions in our business o ce as we’ve had some transitions,” Brown said. “Two very talented people are going to be transitioning to take on that role at other organizations, and we have a need and a gap in ours.”

ties, Evans emphasized that it’s a solid start given the city’s tight budget constraints.

“Given the critical infrastructure needs and budget limitations, I feel very comfortable with where we landed,” Evans said. “ is is a tough budget year, but we’re still making meaningful progress toward our Justice 50 goals.”

While the $35 million capital project plan is a key part of the 2025 budget, the city’s total operating budget will be presented in full to the Common Council at a later meeting in October.

The Ithaca City School District faces leadeship transitions as key budget o cials depart, prompting an urgent search for the next district administrator to manage nancial planning and ensure stability in upcoming budget cycles. (Photo: File)

A Message from Mayor Robert Cantelmo

My Fellow Ithacans,

Happy Autumn! This is my favorite time of year in Ithaca, not least of which because it means get to enjoy Porchfest and the Apple Harvest Festival. September was a busy month for City government, which included budget preparations, housing and zoning reforms, and review of key infrastructure developments.

The administration is finalizing its recommended budget and will present it to Council on Tuesday, October 1. City Manager Mohlenhoff and her team are designing a budget that responds to Council’s legislative priorities around housing, community health and safety, the Ithaca Green New Deal, and promoting efficiency and transparency. As we enter the budget season, I want to reiterate my firm commitment to ensuring full staffing of all city operations to ensure community needs are met. While several departments have returned to pre-pandemic full staffing, we are still working to meet our staffing needs elsewhere, especially in the police department, streets and facilities, and the Ithaca Area Wastewater Treatment Facility (IAWWTF).

The IAWWTF, in particular, is experiencing acute challenges that have necessitated an expansion of the city’s ongoing contract with the Camden Group. This vital piece of infrastructure is responsible for the water quality of our lake and ensures the safe remediation of wastewater. Though our ongoing contract is meeting our immediate needs, it is not a permanent solution for staffing. To that end, in August I established a working group to develop a long-range plan for its staff and operations. Led by Superintendent of Public Works Mike Thorne and Alderperson Clyde Lederman, this group is providing monthly reports to the public and is expected to include important staffing additions in the FY2025 budget.

Council voted to override the state tax levy limit (referred to as the “tax cap”) in advance of the administration’s budget recommendations. As my colleague Alderperson Tiffany Kumar noted on a recent radio interview, this vote was a “procedural technicality imposed upon the City by Governor Cuomo.” It is important to note that this does not commit the City to exceeding the tax cap, but

rather authorizes us to do so if extenuating circumstances require us to do so in order to preserve city staffing and service delivery. Common Council, as a whole, remains firmly committed to a responsible and pragmatic budget for 2025. For detailed discussions of the needs of each city department, I encourage members of the public to keep apprised of the City’s budget hearings over the month of October, a list of which is available on the City website.

On the legislative front, Council continues to advance our housing reform agenda. I would like to publicly thank the hardworking staff of the Planning, Building, Zoning, & Economic Development for their tireless work on addressing the City’s affordability crisis. September included robust discussions on the Southside rezoning plan, the adoption of the City’s draft downtown plan, and accessory dwelling unit legalization. The Southside rezoning was planned to follow adoption of its corresponding neighborhood plan in 2019 but was delayed by the pandemic. Staff have now developed proposed amendments to bring its zoning in line with the desires of the neighborhood. Similarly, the draft Downtown Plan — which includes the Commons, the West End, and the State/MLK street corridor, has received record public engagement and is currently under review by the City’s planning board. Members of the public can monitor the City website to find additional public engagement opportunities for these two consequential proposals.

Planning staff also recently briefed Council on research pertaining to accessory dwelling units (ADUs — also known as granny flats or carriage houses). Legalization of this gentle infill development would permit homeowners to develop accessory apartments on their property to provide more housing stock and generate income, while keeping with the vibes of existing neighborhoods. While ADUs can currently be built in some places by special permit, staff have recommended that Council streamline their approval by removing significant lot size and owner occupancy requirements. I remain strongly supportive of these reforms and believe they

GUEST OPINION

Cornell the Indefensible

By Aaron Fernando, Freelance Journalist & Founder of Striking Distance Ithaca

This month, Cornell made the national news. By targeting an international student who is Black and Muslim—Momodou Taal—with a process that could result in his removal from the country, as a response to his expressive activities, the university is now watched by the rest of the country.

When I say that Cornell made national news, in a small part, I helped make that happen. I authored the article in The Nation last week which Senator Bernie Sanders quote-tweeted days later. In his comment about the situation, Senator Sanders called it “appalling” and “wrong” that Cornell has set the stage for Taal’s removal from the country, as a targeted response to his presence at a protest. Sanders continued, “I urge the university to reverse course immediately.”

As a journalist, it would be irresponsible and self-defeating for me to be silent on issues that affect the spirit of First Amendment protections when the institution with the most resources in my own locality is working to undermine political expression. After all, the First Amendment protects not just the political speech of everyone, but also the rights of the press. Sure, Cornell is not the U.S. government, so it has not technically violated the amendment, but it is behaving in diametric opposition to the spirit of it: Cornell has taken a course of action that it knows will leverage the forcefulness of U.S. governmental institutions, specifically to target and intimidate someone for their speech. Taal is contending with the federal immigration apparatus and could be forced to leave the country despite not facing any criminal charges—a process initiated by the university he attended and worked for, as a direct result of his political expression. This is a dangerous move, even worse, it is an active move taken by Cornell to suppress political expression.

Meanwhile, Cornell itself cannot defend its own actions in the proverbial “marketplace of ideas”. We know this because if you peruse all local and national coverage of this story, you will find that the university will answer no inquiries about its actions.

In covering this story for The Nation,

I reached out multiple times and to multiple offices to try to get answers to relevant, specific questions. I gave the university opportunities to answer questions either via a phone interview or in writing. Not a single one of my questions received a response.

Instead, I received the same prewritten response that all other journalists covering this issue received. I will not reproduce that response here—two paragraphs for Joel Malina, Vice President for University Relations, and links to two pre-written university statements. You will easily be able to find the same text in every single article published in any outlet about Cornell’s suspension of Taal in the past week.

These statements came from Cornell’s media relations office, a staffed office that specifically exists to communicate with reporters like myself but which, on matters of national importance, functionally serve as nothing more than an automated email response. In addition to receiving this pre-packaged response from Cornell’s so-called media relations office, my press requests were also completely ignored by Cornell’s office of student conduct and community standards, and Cornell’s student immigration services in its office of global learning.

Some of the specific questions that Cornell neither acknowledged nor answered included if the university believed Taal to be a threat to campus safety, and if so, what evidence informs this belief. The university did not answer why Taal was singled out for this type of action, when hundreds have taken part in pro-Palestine protests on campus. The university did not answer my question about why it chose to suspend Taal prior to an investigation into misconduct, knowing full well that its course of action would likely force Taal to leave the country before the university came to a fair and open conclusion about if wrongdoing took place.

Cornell also runs its own news publication, the Cornell Chronicle , which employs more paid staff than most journalistic outlets in the region. Upon its founding in 1969, the Chronicle offered a statement of purpose, which included providing “more comprehensive information than the media can devote

Perception Vs. Reality Competing Crime Data Shows Decrease City-Wide, But Increase on the Commons

By Matt Dougherty

Business owners on the Ithaca Commons have been expressing growing concerns about public safety, as recent incidents of vandalism and disorderly conduct have prompted calls for more e ective measures to address the issues.

While some point to what they say is an increase in criminal activity, Ithaca Police Chief Tom Kelly said that crime rates have decreased across the city over the past three years. However, when looking at speci c areas such as the Commons, calls and arrests have increased since 2022, backing up the concerns of some business owners.

Mike Abdulky, owner of Mansour Jewelers, described an incident in late February where a man threw a brick through his shop’s window without apparent motive. Although the suspect was apprehended by the Ithaca Police Department (IPD), Abdulky expressed frustration with what he sees as a lack of consequences for o enders, which he believes contributes to an atmosphere of lawlessness on the Commons.

“It seems like there’s been an increase in stu down here,” Abdulky said. “I know of two or three other businesses on the Commons that have also had broken windows or other issues. It seems like not a lot is being done to either punish these people or put them away.”

Abdulky, whose jewelry store has been a xture on the Commons for years, also said that the presence of groups engaged in drug use and public intoxication has made the area feel less safe, particularly near the playground where children o en play. “ ere’s a playground right here, and it’s terrifying when people are zipping by on skateboards or electric scooters,” he said. “It’s a risk for kids who might not be paying attention.”

Given his concerns, Abdulky called for more visible law enforcement on the Commons, reminiscing about times when multiple o cers patrolled the area regularly.

“We need more o cers walking the Commons like they used to,” Abdulky said. “ ere used to be two or three cops out here, and we felt safe. Now, it seems like there’s barely any presence, and things are getting

Citywide Data: 2022

Total Calls: 19,650

Total Arrests: 809 2023

Total Calls: 19,460

Total Arrests: 808 2022

(so far):

Total Calls: 17,000

Total Arrests: 799

Ithaca Commons Data: 2022

Total Calls: 157

Total Arrests: 0 2023

Total Calls: 161

Total Arrests: 6 2024 (so far):

Total Calls: 324

Total Arrests: 16

According to the Ithaca Police Department’s Community Dashboard, calls and arrests have decreased across the city over the last three years, but have increased on the Commons, leading to concerns among some business owners. (Photo: File)

out of hand.” He added, “We need that visibility back to keep things in check.”

Deirdre Kurzweil, owner of Sunny Days of Ithaca, echoed some of Abdulky’s concerns but o ered a more tempered perspective on safety in the area. While her shop experienced a break-in last year, during which $2,000 was stolen from the cash register, she said she doesn’t feel personally unsafe on the Commons.

“I don’t feel unsafe here,” Kurzweil said. “It sucks that we got broken into, and it sucks that people are getting broken into, but when I walk from here to my home, o en a er dark, I’ve never felt like I was in danger.”

However, she acknowledged that even

the perception of danger is detrimental to business. “ e belief that it’s only dangerous and that people shouldn’t come downtown is almost worse than the crime itself,” she said.

As a result, Kurzweil emphasized the importance of balancing the narrative about crime on the Commons with the reality of the challenges that some vulnerable populations face. “We’re a community that attracts people who need support, and I hope we can nd real solutions to help everyone.”

Kurzweil stressed the importance of addressing the root causes of disruptive behavior, such as homelessness, mental health, and addiction, rather than focusing solely on enforcement.

Still, she expressed concern about how the city’s approach to housing for at-risk populations might impact the Commons, especially with the recent addition of 40 formerly homeless individuals being moved into the Asteri building near the Commons, which also houses the multi-million-dollar Downtown Ithaca Conference Center.

e Asteri building has drawn criticism from some community members who believe the in ux of residents has contributed to increased crime. Since the residents moved in, people have voiced complaints regarding public defecation, physical assaults, trespassing, noise complaints, and dog-related issues.

However, Kelly has said that many of the issues that IPD has been called to respond to at Asteri — such as dog-related complaints, minor disputes, and maintenance issues should be handled by the property's management — not the police.

“A lot of what we’re called to respond to can and should be managed by the building itself,” he said. He compared the situation at Asteri with previous experiences at the Arthaus building on Cherry Street, which faced similar challenges when it opened.

According to Kelly, Arthaus management has since improved security and implemented measures to address resident and community concerns. “Arthaus is in a much better situation now [and] they’ve addressed a lot of their issues,” Kelly said, noting that Asteri should follow similar steps.

Kelly also clari ed that some concerns, such as reports of people defecating in public spaces, have been exaggerated and misreported. For instance, a claim about people defecating in a parking garage was actually about dogs being brought there to relieve themselves without proper cleanup. “It morphed into an overgeneralization of behavior,” Kelly said.

Kelly emphasized that while some challenges are associated with the new residents, public safety issues in the city have not spiked. “ ere’s crime, and then there’s perception of crime,” Kelly said, explaining that despite some misconceptions, crime rates in Ithaca have decreased over the past three years.

Ithaca Police Cheif Tom Kelly has said that part one crimes have decreased across the city over the last three years, but the IPD Community Dashboard shows that calls and arrests on the Commons have increased over the same period. (Photo: Mark Syvertson)

According to Kelly, “In general, crime is down, and if you’re looking at part one crimes such as homicides, robberies, burglaries, larcenies, and car thefts, Ithaca is safer than it was three years before.” He added, “There are social issues that we need to keep working on, but overall, harmful crime is declining.”

The Ithaca Police Department’s Community Dashboard indicates that 19,650 total calls and 809 arrests were made in 2022, 19,460 total calls and 808 arrests were made in 2023, and 17,000 calls and 799 arrests have been made so far in 2024. While this shows that call volumes and arrests have gradually decreased across the city over the last three years, the dashboard also shows that calls and arrests specifically on the Ithaca Commons have increased over the last three years.

According to the dashboard the Ithaca Commons was the ninth most frequented response location for IPD in 2022, with 157 total calls and zero arrests. However, in 2023 the Commons was the eighth most frequented response location with 161 total calls and 6 arrests. In 2024 the calls and arrests on the Common have continued to increase as it has become the third most frequented response location with 324 calls and a total of 16 arrests so far this year.

So, despite data that is pointing to a decrease in crime city-wide, crime has actually increased in specific areas such as the Commons over the last three years, which backs up some of the concerns among business owners.

Kelly explained that the increase in calls and arrests on the Ithaca Commons, despite a citywide decrease in crime, could be attributed to a rise in public trust in the

Nan Rohrer, Executive Director of the Downtown Ithaca Alliance (DIA), said that the decision to hire Amric was made to initiate a “fact finding mission” to assess safety needs on the Commons with the goal of shaping a long-term in-house hospitality ambassador program. (Photo: File)

police department. “As there’s more trust in the police department, you potentially are going to see more things reported.” He also said that while citywide crime data shows a decrease, “individual areas may see increases or decreases to counter that.”

In response to questions regarding increased crime, Downtown Ithaca Alliance Executive Director Nan Rohrer said, “There are a small number of individuals who repeatedly engage in behaviors that are detrimental to the welcoming environment we want to create.” Rohrer added, “We’re working closely with the police to address those patterns and ensure downtown remains a place everyone can enjoy.”

To address concerns, the DIA hired Amric, a private investigative and consulting firm, to serve as “hospitality ambassadors” tasked with providing assistance to visitors and enforcing ordinances such as bans on smoking, skateboarding, and public consumption of alcohol.

DIA Executive Director Nan Rohrer described the hiring of Amric as part of a broader effort to create a welcoming and safe environment on the Commons. Rohrer said the decision to hire private security was a “fact-finding mission” to better understand the area’s needs and inform a long-term approach to public safety.

“We hired Amiric to help us determine what a future in-house hospitality ambassador program might look like at the DIA,” Rohrer explained. “It’s really about reminding people what the laws are and helping ensure everyone can feel safe in a shared public space.”

Rohrer emphasized that the ambassadors’ role is not purely enforcement but also customer service, helping visitors

Deirdre Kurzweil, owner of Sunny Days Ithaca, remians optimistic about her sense of safety on the Commons despite a break in at her store that occured roughly a year ago.

Kurzweil has stressed the importance of addressign root causes of disrupive behavior on the Commons while urging the community not to let crime perceptions deter visiting the area. (Photo: File)

navigate the Commons and reminding people of rules around smoking, skateboarding, and open containers. She noted that Amiric’s reports are regularly shared with IPD to help identify patterns of behavior that may require more direct intervention.

However, some business owners, like Abdulky, say that the hospitality ambassadors lack the authority needed to stop problematic behaviors.

“I’ve seen how they approach people when they go to talk to them,” Abdulky said. “They’re doing the best they can with their job, but it seems like the people they talk to don’t respect them. They know that they’re immune to anything that’s going to happen.”

Chief Kelly confirmed that while the DIA’s private security can provide advisements, they cannot enforce laws or ordinances, which limits their effectiveness. He emphasized that private security officers are meant to support rather than replace police presence, noting that IPD officers respond to incidents as needed when private security alerts them to violations.

“Private security can make advisements, and generally, most people comply, but there are cases where people have been argumentative and did not follow those instructions, and that’s where IPD has been called,” Kelly said.

Regarding claims that IPD does not respond adequately to calls about violations of Commons Ordinances, Kelly said that all calls are taken seriously, but they are triaged based on urgency and available resources. “We always respond if we

Mike Abdulky, owner of Mansour Jewlers, stands in his shop which had a window shattered by someone who threw a brick into it earlier this year. Abdulky has voiced concerns about increasing instances of criminal activity on the Commons, which negatively impacts business and public safety.

(Photo: File)

are called…[but] if there's another violent crime taking place in a different part of the city we have to address that before we can respond to an ordinance violation,” Kelly said.

Kelly also addressed concerns about staffing levels at IPD, noting that the department currently has 55 officers, including those in various stages of training. However, with six officers in training and five vacant positions, the department is effectively still down 11 officers.

While Kelly expressed optimism about the collaborative efforts between IPD and the DIA, business owners remain concerned about the broader implications for the Commons.

Abdulky and Kurzweil both called for more consistent and effective communication from city officials and the DIA about the steps being taken to improve safety and address ongoing issues.

Kurzweil urged a balanced approach, cautioning against amplifying negative misperceptions that could deter people from visiting the Commons. She hopes that by addressing the immediate safety concerns and the underlying social issues of residents in need, the community can reclaim the Commons as a vibrant, welcoming space.

“I think people are missing out by not coming,” Kurzweil said. “Instead of seeing it and being afraid, let’s see it, be sympathetic, and see what we can do to fix it.”

Rohrer echoed that sentiment, saying, “Downtown is for everybody, and we’re working to ensure that it’s a place where everyone can feel safe and respected.”

The Connection Between Women’s Hearing Health and Breast Cancer

By The Timeless Hearing Team

Breast cancer is one of the most common cancers a ecting women worldwide. As treatment options have expanded and improved, so too has the understanding of various side e ects associated with these treatments. Among these is the issue of ototoxicity – damage to the inner ear caused by certain medications, which often leads to hearing loss.

Many chemotherapy agents are known to have ototoxic e ects. This damage may manifest as temporary or permanent hearing loss, tinnitus (ringing in the ears), or balance issues, signi cantly impacting a patient’s quality of life. Unfortunately, many patients may not be aware of these risks.

Hearing Loss and Quality of Life

Hearing loss can have a profound e ect on an individual’s life, particularly for women who are navigating the challenges of a breast cancer diagnosis. The implications extend far beyond the inability to hear; they touch on emotional, social, and cognitive aspects of well-being, creating a daunting landscape for many patients.

• Emotional Well-Being: Hearing loss can lead to feelings of frustration, sadness, and isolation. For many, the inability to engage in conversations can create a sense of loneliness, which is especially poignant for those undergoing cancer treatment, a time when social support is crucial.

• Social Interactions: Communication di culties can make social situations overwhelming. It may become challenging to follow conversations in group settings, leading to withdrawal from social activities. This can exacerbate feelings of isolation and negatively impact mental health.

• Quality of Relationships: Relationships with family and friends can su er due to misunderstandings and communication barriers. This strain can lead to con icts and frustration, further diminishing vital support systems.

• Impact on Daily Activities: Routine tasks such as watching television, participating in group conversations, or even engaging in hobbies can become daunting. The sense of missing out on life can lead to decreased motivation and lower overall life satisfaction

Awareness is key – patients undergoing treatment for breast cancer should be educated about the signs and symptoms of hearing loss. These can include di culty understanding conversations, frequently asking others to repeat themselves, hearing but not understanding certain words, and having to turn the TV up loud to understand what is being said. If any of these symptoms occur, it’s crucial for patients to communicate with their healthcare provider.

Preventive Strategies and Support

While not all cases of ototoxicity can be prevented, several strategies may help minimize the risk:

1. Medication Management: Discussing potential alternatives with oncologists can be essential. Some medications may have less risk of ototoxicity.

2. Hearing Conservation: Patients can take steps to protect their hearing, such as avoiding loud noises and using ear protection when necessary.

3. Regular Hearing Checks: Establishing a routine hearing checkup can help catch changes early, allowing for prompt intervention. This proactive strategy can help mitigate the e ects of ototoxicity and improve overall quality of life for breast cancer patients.

4. Support Networks: Joining support groups for breast cancer patients can provide emotional support and resources for managing both cancer and hearing loss.

What Can You Do?

The relationship between breast cancer treatment and hearing health is an important, yet often overlooked, aspect of patient care. By prioritizing hearing health and fostering an environment of open communication, we can help improve the overall quality of life for breast cancer patients, ensuring they receive the comprehensive care they need during this challenging time.

If you or a loved one has been experiencing hearing di culties, persistent ringing in the ears, or balance issues following cancer treatment, take action by calling one of our o ces for a complimentary hearing checkup. Early detection can make all the di erence!

Timeless Hearing (Ithaca, NY): (607) 327-4711

Cortland Hearing Aids (Cortland, NY): (607) 327-4712

Timeless Hearing (Skaneateles, NY): (315) 800-0616

Southern Tier Audiology (Elmira, NY): (607) 327-4714

Tri-City Hearing (Vestal, NY): (607) 327-4713

Ashley Hardy grew up in Cortland in a family with hearing loss and knows the impact communication can have on quality of life. She received her Bachelor’s in Human Development from Binghamton University in 2004 and has over 19 years of experience as a hearing aid dispenser.

Christine Linnenbach, Au.D. joined Timeless Hearing in 2023. She received her Bachelor's in Communication Disorders and Sciences from SUNY Plattsburgh in 2018 and her Clinical Doctorate of Audiology from Syracuse University in 2022.

Three New Ways to Workout This Fall

By Matt Dougherty

For Ithaca residents looking to stay happy and healthy as the outdoor temperatures gradually plummet, several new tness centers around the city are offering specialized programs that promise to keep you active regardless of how cold it gets. Whether you’re interested in high-energy group workouts, semi-private sauna-based sessions, or full-service gym memberships, these tness facilities provide excellent options to help keep you on track. Here’s a look at what Orange eory, Crunch Fitness, and HotWorks have to o er.

Orange eory

Orange eory Fitness, known for its heart-rate monitored workouts, is an ideal choice for those looking for a scienti -

cally backed, group-based tness program that caters to all tness levels. Vanessa Palmer, a representative of Orange eory, explains that their classes are structured to help individuals build endurance, strength, and power while providing real-time feedback on their heart rate. “One thing that’s great about Orange eory is we are really for all levels,” Palmer says. “Our workouts focus on endurance, strength, and power throughout class, and we track everyone's heart rate in live real time.”

Each class at Orange eory is a onehour session, during which participants rotate between treadmill, rowing, and oor exercises. e workout is designed to be intense but adaptable, o ering walker, jogger, and runner options on the treadmill. For those who may have physical limitations, there are alternatives like a

bike or Strider to replace the treadmill or rowing machine.

In addition to the standard sessions, Orange eory o ers specialized classes, including strength-focused sessions and treadmill-only workouts. e pricing is straightforward: an unlimited class

membership costs $179 per month, and a package of eight classes per month is available for $119. Both options provide exibility depending on your tness goals. Palmer also highlights the sense

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, and Guthrie wants to remind you about the importance of early detection through annual mammogram screenings. Taking this simple step can help catch breast cancer in its early stages, significantly increasing the chances of successful treatment.

Take this opportunity to prioritize your health and give yourself a fighting chance by scheduling a mammogram today.

You can schedule a mammogram online at www.Guthrie.org/mammography, scan the QR code on your smartphone or call 866-GUTHRIE (866-488-4743).

HotWorks offers infrared sauna-based workouts, combining isometric exercises and high-intensity cardio sessions in a semi-private, 24-hour facility for maximum calorie burn and recovery. (Photo: HotWorks)

Secure Your Future

Sports Memories for Sale

New Ithaca Store Sells Sports Memorabilia

By Steve Lawrence

As Grant Vennel was showing me around Southern Tier Sports Corner, his new sports memorabilia store on Elmira Road in Ithaca, it never crossed my mind whether he knew his stu . Rather, the question that kept coming up was, “ is guy is so into everything in the store... can he ever part with it?”

at is a hurdle every collector needs to clear, and when Vennel said, “I have been an avid collector since I was 13 years old,” I was convinced that he can in fact let things go when the time is right.

“I bought my rst full box of baseball cards from Bob Bowman, in 1985.” Vennel said. (Bowman ran a little memorabilia shop in Van Etten, and Vennel grew up down the road in Spencer.) “Sports has always been my passion,” and he raised three sons who were all ne high school athletes.

A er many years as a sales executive, Grant — a Baruch College grad — opened a similar business in Horseheads ve years ago. “We’re growing, so it made sense to move the business to Ithaca, and we went from 1,200 to 4,100 square feet. I go from Burbank to Dallas to Miami to procure unique, high-end sports memorabilia and collectibles.” As we spoke, Vennel was packing up to go to a show in North Carolina.

Vennel and his partner and Store Manager Michael Crelin did not take long to ll that bigger space up with a huge collection of licensed sports apparel, authentic sports memorabilia, sports cards and hobby boxes and a lot more stu that can

feel, to a lifelong sports fan, like a trip to a museum. ere are framed photos from many eras (like the one of the beloved Ernie Davis, of Elmira), all manner of jerseys and caps, gurines and cards ranging from low-end to high-end in value. One of the partners’ other goals is to create “a community for sports enthusiasts,” and

Grant Vennel proudly shows off his sports collectibles at his new store on Elmira Road in Ithaca. (Photo: Provided)

Latino Civic Association’s Hispanic Heritage Month Events Build Community

By Kai Lincke

The volunteer-led Latino Civic Association of Tompkins County has planned family-friendly events, built connections, and o ered resources and support for the area’s Latine community for 30 years. e LCA continues to expand its programming for National Hispanic Heritage Month with a series of events from Sept. 11 to Oct. 27. e LCA’s new director, Colombian-American artist Yen Ospina, said the LCA hopes to draw new members through Hispanic Heritage Month programming. She said she hopes that the new events and updated website and social media will help the organization get more exposure.

“I just always wanted to build a strong community when it comes to Hispanic and Latine people because it reminds me of my family,” Ospina said. “Having all of these events happening throughout Hispanic Heritage Month where anybody can enjoy feels really exciting to me, because … every year it grows more and more, and there are more other organizations that want to reach out and want to collaborate and want to make these things happen.”

Ospina said the LCA has traditionally held three core events for Hispanic Heritage Month: the Folkloric Danza, the Cine con Cultura Latinx American Film Festival and the Hispanic and Latine artists group art exhibit.

e Folkloric Danza opened the Hispanic Heritage Month celebrations Sept. 16 with performances showcasing traditional Latine dances at e Kitchen eater Company.

e Cine con Cultura festival screens Latinx and Latin American lmmakers’ work at Ithaca College, Cornell University and Cinemapolis. e tenth edition of the lm festival will show 14 lms from Brazil, Cuba, Colombia, Paraguay, México, Panamá, Venezuela, Puerto Rico, Chile, Costa Rica and Latinx-US from Sept. 15 to Oct. 23.

e “Showcasing Talent of Hispanic & Latine Artists in e Finger Lakes” group exhibit will feature artwork from local Latine artists at the Community School of Music & Art from Oct. 2 to Nov. 26. e exhibit will have opening ceremonies from 5 to 8 p.m. Oct. 4 and Nov. 1.

All are welcome to view the art whenever CSMA is open: from 2:30 to 7 p.m. Tuesday through Friday and from 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday.

Ospina founded the Annual Heritage Fiesta in 2022 and now organizes it with Stacey Dimas. e festival includes Latine music and dance performances, food vendors, artisans and community organizations.

“I always wanted to throw a big community event highlighting Hispanic and Latina businesses and entrepreneurs and performances,” Ospina said. “I was really inspired by bringing community together and giving people the opportunity to nd people that are [from] similar background or … nostalgic of just their own culture.”

is year’s Heritage Festival will occur from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Oct. 5. Ospina said the LCA expects about 500 attendees. As it has grown, the event has received grants from the Community Arts Partnership and the Park Foundation and moved from the Press Bay Alley court to the Press Bay Alley parking lot to provide more space for dancers and visitors.

Ospina said the LCA planned two new events this year: Argentinian puppeteer Leonor Lipszyc will perform shows in Spanish at 2:30 p.m. Oct. 26 and 10:30 a.m. Oct. 27 at the Kitchen eater Company. LCA also collaborated with the Kitchen eater to host the Laughs in Spanish production from Sept. 11 to Sept. 22.

Ospina said she hopes the LCA’s Hispanic Heritage Month programming introduces more people to the organization and encourages them to access its community support year-round.

“We have a lot of social media platforms that people end up connecting with because they’re looking for something speci cally, and then we end up telling them, ‘these are the resources that you need for mental health, these are the resources that you need for overall health, this is a company or organization that you need to connect with to gure out law,’” Ospina said. “My goal… [is] if somebody is new coming to Ithaca, they have these resources easily available to them.”

& Entertainment

The Cine Con Cultura Latinx American Film Festival celebrates its 10th edition with 14 films from across Latin America, screening at venues like Ithaca College, Cornell University, and local favorite Cinemapolis as part of National Hispanic Heritage Month. (Photo: Provided)

Yen Ospina, the new director of the Latino Civic Association of Tompkins County, is expanding the organization’s programming for National Hispanic Heritage Month to foster community connections an support for Ithaca’s Latine population. (Photo: Ithaca Murals)

Portrait of the Holocaust

Kate Winslet, Andy Samburg Portray War Photographers in LEE

By David Burak

Let us begin with a look at a seminal scene near the close of the “mission oriented” biographical tour of “duty,” with Kate Winslet portraying a singular woman reporter, Lee Miller.

A relatively short time before the scene, Adolph Hitler & Eva Braun have committed suicide. Lee, along with her fellow war photographer, Davey Scherman, effectively portrayed by Andy Samberg, are checking out the Nazi headquarters.

LEE

Starring Kate Winslet, Andy Samberg, Alexander Skarsgard

Directed by Ellen Kuras

Rated R Cinemapolis

WORKOUT THIS FALL

120 E. Green Street, Ithaca of community and encouragement that comes from these group sessions. “The coaches are certified personal trainers, and they’re there to offer personalized attention if you have any exercise restrictions or need modifications.”

Upcoming events at Orange Theory include their popular Hell Week in October, which features eight days of intense workouts designed to push participants’ limits. As Palmer explains, “The goal is to complete five of the eight classes, and those who do receive a signature Hell Week T-shirt. It’s a fun challenge, and you always feel really accomplished when you’ve completed it.”

Crunch Fitness

For those seeking an all-inclusive gym experience with a wide array of amenities, Crunch Fitness on South Meadow Street has something for everyone. The gym offers memberships starting as low as $9.99 per month for basic access to the facility, while their Peak Results membership, which includes all group classes, hydro massage, and guest privileges, costs $29.99 per month.

Lee (Winslet) enters the bathroom and turns on the shower. Then she calls out to Davey to come in; the water is hot and she is going to take a bath, After Lee breaks the glass covering a portrait of the German dictator (positioned on the edge of the tub), we get one of the strangest (and enduring) photos of WW II.

Along the Nazi created “Highway to Hell,” we’re with Lee and Davey as they’re shown a previously locked boxcar, strewn with bodies of decomposed corpses.

Earlier, we are witness to an exchange Lee has with an American soldier whose upper body (except for his eyes) is covered with severe burns and bandages.

The soldier asks Lee to make sure the picture gets published, as he wants his wife to see he’s still alive. This array of photos, includes some of the first from the concentration camps. One can’t help but wonder

Crunch Fitness General Manager Ben Marks explains that one of the things that sets Crunch apart is the focus on helping members create personalized fitness plans. “We have every member start with a one-hour session with a personal trainer to really figure out their goals,” Marks says. This session, known as the CrunchOne Kickoff, is designed to make sure members feel comfortable with the equipment and have a solid plan for achieving their fitness objectives.

In terms of facilities, Crunch offers a wide range of options, including a dedicated ride studio for cycling classes, a yoga studio, and high-intensity interval training (HIIT) classes. “We’re famous for our HIIT classes,” Marks says. “They’re run by a personal trainer, so you get expert guidance throughout the workout.”

Crunch Fitness also offers additional perks like hydro massage and tanning, amenities that are included with the Peak Results membership. As Marks explains, the gym strives to create an inclusive, community-oriented atmosphere. “We try to accommodate everyone. It’s a community gym, so whether you want the basic access for $9.99 or the full experience for $30, we’ve got something for you.”

how much the images, especially from the camps, impacted the lives of Lee & Davey. (He continued to work at LIFE magazine for the rest of his career.)

Liz Hannah, John Collee, and Marion Hume bundle a great deal of feeling in the dialogue. Meanwhile, Ellen Kuras directs with heartfelt impact, especially in the scenes with children.

For those desiring more direct action

Crunch regularly hosts themed events for its members, including challenges around major holidays like Halloween and Christmas. These events are designed to keep members engaged and motivated. “We love to get dressed up and have fun with it,” Marks adds, noting that the gym also partners with local businesses for community events.

HotWorks

For those looking for a more unique and focused workout experience, HotWorks on Elmira Road offers infrared sauna-based workouts in a 24-hour facility. Kenneth Burnett, the owner of HotWorks, describes the studio as a place where members can engage in both isometric workouts, like yoga and Pilates, and high-intensity cardio sessions, such as spin or rowing, all within the comfort of an infrared sauna.

“We are the only place in town with saunas that you can work out in,” Burnett explains. “Our infrared saunas raise your metabolism, so the sauna is doing half the work for you. You can burn an amazing number of calories in our sessions.”

HotWorks offers two membership tiers: the basic “Sweat Here” member-

of the combat sort, they might find it interesting to see Audie Murphy’s, “War is Hell.” (Murphy was the most decorated American soldier during WW II. He also plays the lead in the film based on his life.)

Meanwhile, LEE takes us inside the experiential framework of a woman journalist who is a guide for those who might choose to carry their identity into risky territory.

ship for $49 per month (currently discounted from $59) and the “Sweat Everywhere” membership for $79 per month, which allows access to any HotWorks location nationwide. Each sauna holds up to three people, making it a semi-private experience that feels personal and focused.

The infrared energy from the saunas provides a host of benefits, including improved metabolism, muscle recovery, and enhanced mood—especially useful as the winter months approach. “Infrared is also good for Seasonal Affective Disorders,” Burnett notes. “When you have the winter blues, you can come in and get the energy you need.”

HotWorks is open 24 hours a day, making it an excellent option for those with busy or unconventional schedules. “We’re here whenever members need us,” says Burnett, emphasizing the flexibility and convenience of their approach.

Whether you’re looking for group classes with live feedback, an all-inclusive gym experience, or a more private, saunabased workout, Orange Theory, Crunch Fitness, and HotWorks all have unique offerings to help you stay active, healthy, and energized.

Andy Samburg and Kate Winslet star in LEE. (Photo by Kimberley French)

continued from page 4

against 20 other students who participated in the career fair protest. The CGSU insists that these actions are part of a broader pattern of political repression against students involved in pro-Palestinian activism on campus.

In a statement released on September 30, Cornell’s Interim President Michael Kotlikoff said, “All who have been identified as Cornell students are being referred for conduct violation…No one has been singled out, and no one who did not participate in the disruption of this university event has been referred.”

Kotlikoff continued saying that the

CORNELL THE INDEFENSIBLE

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to University matters due to limitations of space and time.” I am wondering where that more comprehensive coverage has been—or any coverage, for that matter—on the Momodou Taal issue. National press has afforded space and time to it, but there hasn’t been a single word written about it in the Chronicle. If this publication wants to regard itself as journalistic, it should have the courage

A MESSAGE FROM MAYOR ROBERT CANTELMO

continued from page 7

will play an important role in our “all of the above” approach to housing reform. Interested members of the public can look for upcoming community conversations on the consequences of this proposal’s adoption.

Finally, on September 18, Council reviewed the proposed 2025 workplan for the Sidewalk Improvement District program. City engineering staff developed this workplan based on a citywide needs assessment, public presentations, and community feedback. The 2025 workplan includes construction on Cecil A. Malone Drive and Mitchell Street, as well as needed repairs on Chestnut Street and W. Court.

For a detailed review of next year’s program, please visit https://www. cityofithaca.org/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/ Agenda/_09182024-2920.

Sincerely yours, Mayor Robert Cantelmo

career fair protest was out of line with the university’s “fundamental principles” and created “an environment of intimidation and fear.” He added that the disciplinary actions taken against Taal and the other suspended students is necessary “to safeguard the rights of everyone in our community.”

According to the statement, Kotlikoff said that the Student Code of Conduct instructs the Office of Student Conduct & Community Standards (OSCCS) to apply the “least restrictive measures necessary to protect the community from ongoing harm.” However, Cornell has not responded to questions regarding whether or not revoking a student’s visa status and putting them at risk of deportation is the “least restrictive” measure that the university can

and editorial structure to cover issues of public interest even when it’s possible that Cornell may be criticized as a result of that coverage. Otherwise, a more accurate name for it would be the Cornell Omission, and it is nothing more than a propaganda wing for the university that is meant to seem like journalism.

In my recent coverage of the UAW strike on campus for The Nation and Truthout, Cornell’s media relations office similarly sent me only pre-written responses and ignored all specific questions and requests for interviews. So it

SPORTS MEMORIES FOR SALE

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according to Crelin, “We want to build out community support, and host events, like Trade Nights, when people can bring in their collections.” He added that he hopes to engage local college teams in ways that are mutually beneficial.

Crelin said, “Grant is such an expert in this field, and he’s a great resource as well.” Grateful for the shout-out, Vennel said, “We now have an exclusive and direct relation with Fanatics (a global company specializing in licensed sports merchandise, trading cards and collectibles, founded by Michael Rubin, the former owner of the Philadelphia 76ers). “He (Rubin) believed in my business plan, and in my vision of where this market is going in the next 10 years.” That business relationship will be, Vennel says, “A real differentiator in moving forward.”

● ● ●

I always love going to Cornell’s Homecoming weekend, as I enjoy being down

take in this situation.

In response to Kotlikoff’s statement, Taal’s Immigration Attorney, Eric Lee, said “[Kotlikoff] makes numerous false claims regarding the events that led to [Taal’s] suspension.” Lee described Kotlikoff’s claim that effectively deporting Taal is necessary to safeguard the rights of everyone in the community as “Orwellian.”

Lee also raised concerns about the fairness of Cornell’s appeal process. “President Kotlikoff's personal intervention in Mr. Taal's case raises serious concerns about the administration’s ability to conduct a fair and unbiased review of the appeal presently pending before the provost.” According to Lee, “The administration's rush to judgment also violates the rights of Mr. Taal’s academic worker-colleagues to due

appears this is their modus operandi: don’t explain anything, don’t answer any questions.

When an educational institution is supposedly concerned with justice and processes, but repeatedly refuses to answer any questions about its behavior, and refuses to allow journalists—and therefore the public—to interrogate the logic of its decision about why a highly vulnerable student was targeted when others were not, we have to question the legitimacy of this insititution’s disciplinary processes, and what (political)

on the field before kickoff, seeing former players showing their wives and kids around, recounting their days in a Big Red uniform. Some are hoping their sons follow them to East Hill, and of course, some are able to fulfill that dream.

I also like looking into the stands and seeing what is invariably the biggest crowd of the season, and when the game is played between the 20 yard lines, the several thousand fans seem to actually fill the huge crescent.

Big Red quarterback Jameson Wang took the field for his fourth and final homecoming game, and the senior — with a lot of help from his supporting cast — made it one to remember. Facing the always tough Yale Bulldogs, Wang connected on 18 of 29 passes for 278 yards and four TDs. His O-Line allowed no sacks, Wang picked up 55 more rushing yards, and the hosts put a 47-23 thumping on the defending Ivy League champs.

On the other side of the ball, Trey Harris and Luke Banbury led the defense with seven tackles each. The Big Red is 1-0 in the Ivy League, and will host U Albany on Saturday at 1 p.m.

process before disenrollment.”

Lee continued saying that despite Cornell claiming their actions are justified, this situation represents “a powerful and well-connected Ivy League administration forcing one of its own students off campus and out of the country because it disagrees with his defense of the Palestinian people.” He added, “It is urgent that the campus and the broader population come to Mr. Taal's defense to prevent Cornell from setting this dangerous precedent.”

As Taal’s situation unfolds, the CGSU remains committed to fighting for his reinstatement and ensuring that the rights of all graduate workers are respected. “When we chant together, when we fight together, we win,” Marvin said. “And we will win this fight.”

ends those opaque processes actually serve.

The Cornell administration and the staff it employs will not allow itself to be scrutinized, not because of a lack of capacity or any other legitimate reason. On the political intimidation and suppression of a Black, Muslim student’s speech, Cornell has chosen silence over engagement. It has become clear that there is just one simple reason why the university will not defend its own actions in the marketplace of ideas: its actions are indefensible.

LATINO CIVIC ASSOCIATION’S

continued from page 13

The LCA works with local organizations to offer support for its community members. For example, Ospina said, the LCA is collaborating with West Haven Farm to connect rural and urban immigrant farm workers with affordable produce through the Community Supported Agriculture program.

The LCA also offers scholarships for Latine high school seniors and non-traditional students and organizes annual events like a summer picnic and Christmas party. Ospina said she hopes to continue planning events to help Latine folks find solidarity and community and increase visibility for the LCA.

“My priority is to make sure that there are these family-friendly community events happening, to know that we are here so people can [meet] who is volunteering their time to be a part of Latino Civic Association and then build relationships and friendships through that,” Ospina said.

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Bars/Bands/Clubs

10/2 Wednesday

Fire y Trio | 6 p.m. | Deep Dive

Ithaca, 415 Old Taughannock Blvd | Free

What’s Cookin’ Jazz Trio | 6 p.m. | Brookton’s Market, 491 Brooktondale Rd. | Free

10/3 Thursday

Aaron Lipp | 5:30 p.m. | South Hill

Cider, 550 Sandbank Rd. | Free

Li’l Anne, Fid’l Lyd and Jorge! | 7:30 p.m. | Bike Bar Ithaca, 314 East State St

ITHAKARAOKE w/ Live Backing

Band | 9 p.m. | Deep Dive Ithaca, 415 Old Taughannock Blvd

The Magenta Lounge | 9:00pm| The Downstairs, 121 W M.L.K. Jr. St.

10/4 Friday

Gunpoets | 5:30 p.m. | South Hill Cider, 550 Sandbank Road

Happy Hour with GoGone | 5:30 p.m. | Deep Dive Ithaca, 415 Old Taughannock Blvd

Jon Dember | 6 p.m. | Brookton’s Market, 491 Brooktondale Rd

Strong Maybe October Residency |8:00pm | The Downstairs, 121 W. M.L.K. Jr. St.

10/5 Saturday

TOiVO: Oktoberfest Party! | 5 p.m. | Garrett’s Brewing Co., Main Street, Trumansburg

Truth Decay | 6 p.m. | Liquid State North Shore, 6128 NY-89, Romulus Whistlin Dyl Residency | 8:00pm| The Downstairs, 121 W M.L.K. Jr. St.

10/6 Sunday

Jazz Guitar Brunch with Dennis Winge | 10:30 a.m. | Antlers Restaurant, 1159 Dryden Rd. | Free

Jazz Jam | 6:00pm | The Downstairs

10/7 Monday

Jazz Mondays with MAQ | 5:30 p.m. | South Hill Cider, 550 Sandbank Road | Free

10/8 Tuesday

Quadro Nuevo | 8 p.m. | Deep Dive Ithaca, 415 Old Taughannock Blvd

Pierce Walsh | 8:00pm| The Downstairs, 121 W. M.L.K. Jr. St.

10/9 Wednesday

Craig Chin | 7:00pm| The Downstairs, 121 W. M.L.K. Jr. St. Concerts/Recitals

10/2 Wednesday

Splinter Reeds | 7:30 p.m. | Bethe House Common Room, 314 West Ave | Free

10/4 Friday

Stucky Ensemble-in-Residence Splinter Reeds | 7:30 p.m. | Barnes Hall, 129 Ho Plaza | Free Neko Case w/ Imaad Wasif | 8 p.m. | State Theatre of Ithaca, 107 West State St

10/5 Saturday

DeeDee Arrison Concert for the Animals | 6:30 p.m. | Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine, 602 Tower Rd | Free

10/6 Sunday

Jazz Stars | 6:30 p.m. | Savage Club’s Lansing Performance Hall, 1004 Lansing Road | Free

10/9 Wednesday

Midday Music for Organ: Annette Richards | 12:30 p.m. | Anabel Taylor Chapel , 548 College Ave | Free

Stage

Rev Theatre Co. presents: May We All - A New Country Musical | 10/2 Wednesday | Merry-Go-Round Playhouse, 17 William St, 2nd Floor | Check website for speci c show times. Set in Harmony, TN, a town more than ready for its facelift, this heartfelt, funny new musical follows the dreams of an up-and-coming country singer, her empty-nester parents, an unrequited love story and a small town on the brink of change and revitalization. Opera Ithaca Present’s Mozart’s opera Cosi fan Tutte | 7:30 p.m., 10/4 Friday | Hangar Theatre, 801 Taughannock Blvd. | Opera Ithaca

presents Cosi fan Tutte by Wolfgang Mozart! | $20.00 - $50.00

A Gentleman’s Guide to Love and Murder | 7:30 p.m., 10/4 Friday | Cider Mill Stage, 2 Nanticoke Ave, Endicott |  BLAST (Bold Local Artists of the Southern Tier) is thrilled to announce the opening production of their 4th season with the hilarious, Tony Award-winning musical A Gentleman’s Guide to Love and Indiana Jo and the Cabaret of Doom | 7:30 p.m., 10/5 Saturday | Cortland Repertory Theatre Downtown, 24-26 Port Watson Street | Indiana Jo and the Cabaret of Doom: An 18+ Variety Show for the thrill seeker in you! | $25.00

Comedy, Puppets, and Fantastical Tales | 6 p.m., 10/7 Monday | Kitchen Theatre Company, 417 W. State / W. MLK, Jr. Street | A concert of Arthur Grioys, the ICOA artist in residence, presenting comedy and puppetry. | Free

Evolution of a Magician - Storytelling and Magic with James Warren | 7:30 p.m., 10/8 Tuesday | The Foundation of Light, 391 Turkey Hill Rd | James Warren presents his new one-man storytelling and magic, Evolution of A Magician, at the Foundation of Light on October 8th. | $20.00 - $25.00

Art

PROCEDURAL SPIRIT | 11 a.m., 10/3 Thursday | Corners Gallery, 903 Hanshaw Rd. Suite 101A Suite 101A | PROCEDURAL SPIRIT features sculptural paintings by Stefan Zoller. | Free Seeing Ithaca: through the eyes of artists | 12 p.m., 10/3 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

Harry Littell and Jane Dennis | 12 p.m., 10/3 Thursday | State of the Art Gallery,, 120 W State St #2 | “Parts and Service” and “ A Cold War Childhood” are two parallel shows of Harry Littell and Jane Dennis at the State of the art Gallery in October. | Free

Nature Transformed: Exploring The Johnson Museum Inside & Out: Session 2: Asian Artists & Nature | 1 p.m., 10/3 Thursday | Johnson Museum, 114 Central Ave | OFFSITE.

Session 2: Asian Artists & Nature Meet in main lobby of museum. Carpooling is advised, as there is a limited number of parking spaces.

Ithaca Gallery Night | 5 p.m., 10/4

Friday | Various Locations in and around Ithaca, 171 East State Street | Ithaca Gallery Night takes place on the rst Friday of every month where galleries and venues present art exhibits featuring local, regional, and international artists. For the current participating exhibitions please go to www.ithacagallerynight.com. | Free

Group Exhibit of Greater Ithaca Art Trail artists | 5 p.m., 10/4 Friday | 110 N. Tioga Street, 110 N Tioga St | This is one of three Greater Ithaca Art Trail’s October events!

Regional Photography Exhibit Opening Reception | 5 p.m., 10/4 Friday | Cortland Free Library, 32 Church St |

Pay-What-You-Wish-Weekends |

10 a.m., 10/5 Saturday | Museum of the Earth, 1259 Trumansburg Road (Route 96) | Join Museum of the Earth for Pay-What-You-Wish weekends, sponsored by BorgWarner, on the rst weekend of each month.

Eight Square Schoolhouse: Open House | 3 p.m., 10/6 Sunday | Eight Square Schoolhouse, 1756 Hanshaw Road | Visit our historic schoolhouse to explore the classroom as it may have been in 1892. | Free

Cinemapolis

120 E. Green St., Ithaca October 4-10. *Indicates lms opening this week. Contact Cinemapolis for additional lms and showtimes.

Joker: Folie à Deux* | Arthur Fleck is institutionalized at Arkham, awaiting trial for his crimes as Joker. While struggling with his dual identity, Arthur not only stumbles upon true love, but also nds the music that’s always been inside him.| R 138 mins

My Old Ass* | A mushroom trip brings free-spirited Elliott face-to-face with her 39-year-old self. But when Elliott’s “old ass” delivers warnings to her younger self, Elliott realizes she has to rethink everything about her family, life and love.| R 89 mins

A Di erent Man* | After undergoing facial-reconstructive surgery, Edward becomes xated on an actor in a stage production based on his former life.| R 112 mins

Lee | The story of American photographer Lee Miller, a fashion model who became an acclaimed war correspondent for Vogue magazine during World War II.| R 116 mins

The Substance | A fading celebrity decides to use a black-market drug, a cell-replicating substance that temporarily creates a younger, better version of herself.| R 141 mins Beetlejuice Beetlejuice | PG-13 104 mins

Cornell Cinema

All lms shown at 104 Willard Straight Hall, Cornell Campus. Angela Davis: A World of Greater Freedom | 10/03, 4:45 pm| Re ects on the life and work of the North American activist Angela Davis. Filmmaker Manthia Diawara will join for a post-screening conversation with Salah M. Hassan. Free admission. Girls Will Be Girls | 10/03, 8:00 pm, 10/19, 8:30 pm | A beautiful comingof-age story directed by Shuchi Talati, the romance between the lead protagonists is also a sensitive exploration of female desire that observes how conservative cultures entrap women under strict expectations and norms.

TOIVO - OKTOBERFEST PARTY FRIDAY, OCTOBER 4TH

-

2024 Sundance Film Festival

Shorts Tour | 10/04, 6:00 pm | A theatrical program of seven short lms curated from the 2024 Sundance Film Festival, including three Festival Award-winning titles.

The Mummy| 10/04, 8:30 pm | This action-packed adaptation of the 1932 horror lm, directed by Stephen Sommers and starring the beloved actor Brendan Fraser, spurred several sequels and has achieved cult status in recent years.

Notorious | 10/05, 5:30 pm | Starring the electric Ingrid Bergman and Cary Grant, Hitchcock’s Notorious is a simmering tale of love and betrayal.

Nostalghia | 10/05, 8:00 pm, 10/19, 5:30 pm | Andrei Tarkovsky explained that in Russian the word “nostalghia” conveys “the love for your homeland and the melancholy that arises from being far away.” This debilitating form of homesickness is embodied in the story of a Russian poet visiting Northern Italy to research the life and work of an eighteenth-century composer.

The Princess Bride|10/06, 2:30 pm|A high-spirited adventure that pits true love against inconceivable odds, The Princess Bride has charmed legions of fans with its irreverent gags, eccentric ensemble, and dazzling swordplay.

Pictures of Ghosts | 10/06, 5:00 pm| Brazil’s o cial selection for the 2024 Academy Awards from acclaimed director Kleber Mendonça Filho/ The lm is a multidimensional journey through time, sound, architecture, and lmmaking, set in the urban landscape of Recife, Brazilian coastal capital of Pernambuco.

Sports

Ithaca Women’s Soccer vs William Smith College | 4 p.m., 10/2

Wednesday | Carp Wood Field |

Cornell Field Hockey vs Princeton University | 4 p.m., 10/4 Friday | Dodson Field |

Ithaca Field Hockey vs William Smith College | 1 p.m., 10/5 Saturday | Higgins Stadium |

Cornell Women’s Soccer vs Dartmouth College | 1 p.m., 10/5

Saturday | N.Y., Berman Field |

Cornell Big Red Football vs. Albany Great Danes Football | 1 p.m., 10/5 Saturday | Schoellkopf Field |

Ithaca Women’s Soccer vs St. Lawrence University | 3 p.m., 10/5

Saturday | Carp Wood Field |

Ithaca Men’s Soccer vs Misericordia University | 4 p.m., 10/9

Wednesday | Carp Wood Field |

Special Events

Cortland Pumpkin Run | 9 a.m., 10/5 Saturday | Make the festivities even better at the Cortland Pumpkin Festival by joining the Pumpkin Run! Carry a pumpkin on the mile loop starting at Greenbush Street near Courthouse Park.

Moore Family Farm Fall Festival | 10 a.m., 10/5 Saturday | Moore Family Farm, 570 Auburn Rd. | Come get lost in our 5-acre corn maze, pick the perfect pumpkin, enjoy Farm-Fresh Cider Donuts, test your aim at our apple cannons and so much Moore!. | $16.95 - $28.95

The Great Cortland Pumpkinfest | 10 a.m., 10/5 Saturday | Courthouse Park, 33 Church Street | Enjoy fall fun at the 27th Annual Great Cortland Pumpkinfest! | Free Newark Valley Apple Festival | 10 a.m., 10/5 Saturday | Bement Billings Farmstead, 8980 Main Street | | $2.00 - $20.00

LCA Presents: 3rd Annual Heritage Fiesta | 11 a.m., 10/5 Saturday | Press Bay, 112 W Green St | Get ready for a vibrant celebration at the 3rd Annual Heritage Fiesta, taking place in the Press Bay Parking Lot on October 5, with a rain date of October 6!

Newark Valley Apple Festival | 10/7 Monday, Bement-Billings Farmstead, 9241 NY-38 | Newark Valley Apple Festival 1st Saturday and Sunday in October, Bement-Billings Farmstead, 9241 NY-38, Newark Valley, NY 13811 10 am-5 pm. $6 adults,...

Books

On Strike Against God with Alec Pollak | 5 p.m., 10/3 Thursday | Buffalo Street Books, 215 North Cayuga Street | Join preeminent Joanna Russ scholar Alec Pollak in celebrating the publication of a new critical edition of ON STRIKE AGAINST GOD, out now from Feminist Press. | $17.95

Poetry Reading with Janie Bibbie, Tompkins County Poet Laureate | 6 p.m., 10/9 Wednesday | Tompkins County Public Library, 101 East Green Street | Join us at the Tompkins County Public Library for a reading by Poet Laureate Janie E. Bibbie. | Free

Kids

The MAiZE at Stoughton Farm | 9 a.m., 10/2 Wednesday | Stoughton Farm, 10898 State Route 38 | YEE HAW!!! Have we got a Rip-Roaring good time in store for y’all. Our 2024 corn maze challenges the senses with its vast 8+ acres of pathways, turning points and dead ends.

Playtime with Finger Lakes Toy Library | 10:30 a.m., 10/3 Thursday | Sciencenter, 601 1st St | Join the Sciencenter and the Finger Lakes Toy Library for our October playtime!

Story + Craft | 3:30 p.m., 10/3 Thursday | Tompkins County Public Library, 101 East Green Street | Story + Craft is our weekly reading + creating event for children! Join us for a read-aloud, followed by art-making or a guided craft.

Storytime | 10 a.m., 10/4 Friday | Southworth Library, 24 W. Main St | Come on over to the library for storytime on Fridays at 10 am with songs,

great stories, crafts and activities for toddlers and preschoolers. | Free Cornell Raptors at the Southworth Library | 11 a.m., 10/5 Saturday | Southworth Library, 24 W. Main St, Dryden | You can meet some birds of prey and learn about how Cornell students care for them in this free, interactive program and learn how you can assist migratory birds and learn more about them with some hands-on family activities as well. | Free Mother Goose and the Stolen Stories - Neezen Toze Theater Company | 12 p.m., 10/5 Saturday | Center for the Arts of Homer, 72 S Main St | From the Neezen Toze Theater Company - Join us as we rescue the kidnapped Story Keeper, and learn the importance of all the stories we tell!

LAFF- Little Apple Fall Follies Bene t Variety Show | 7 p.m., 10/5 Saturday | Ithaca High School- Kulp Auditorium, 1401 N. Cayuga Street | LAFF- Little Apple Fall Follies Community Bene t Variety Show, featuring Ithaca area performers and MC’d by Rachael Lampert, Stephen Nunley, and Joey Steinhagen. | $12.00

SIT! STAY! READ! | 3 p.m., 10/7 Monday | Tompkins County Public Library, 101 East Green Street | Children are invited to practice their reading skills by sharing a story with a truly non-judgmental listener -- a dog!

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Reading sessions will be held Mondays from 3-4 p.m. Children who attend 6 sessions will earn a FREE book of their choice! | Free

Notices

The Activist Humanist: Form and Method in the Climate Crisis | 4:30 p.m., 10/2 Wednesday | Olin Library, 161 Ho Plz | As climate catastrophes intensify, why do literary and cultural studies scholars so often separate aesthetic study from political change?

Alzheimer’s Support Group | 5:30 p.m., 10/2 Wednesday | Lifelong, 119 W. Court St. | First Wednesday of the Month 5:30-7:00 PM Lifelong membership not required.

Cancer Resource Center’s Walkathon & 5K | 8 a.m., 10/5 Saturday | Kiwanis Pavilion - Cass Park, 121 Turtle Lane | CRC’s annual Walkathon & 5K exists to support people a ected by cancer in the Finger Lakes region. Walk, run, donate, or volunteer in honor of a loved one, to ensure that NO ONE faces cancer alone. | $35.00 - $500.00

Beginner Bird Walks | 8:30 a.m., 10/5 Saturday | Cornell Lab of Ornithology, 159 Sapsucker Woods Rd. | Youth Mental Health & Wellness Town Hall | 12:30 p.m., 10/5 Saturday | Tompkins County Public Library,

101 East Green Street | Community town hall with expert presentations on youth mental health and suicide prevention. Hosted by the Tompkins County Suicide Prevention Coalition. Tompkins County Public Library-Borg Warner Room. | Free Ithaca Farmers Market Saturday at the Pavilion | 10/5 Saturday | Ithaca Farmers Market, Steamboat Landing, 545 3rd St | Food Addicts in Recovery Anonymous | 4 p.m., 10/6 Sunday, 518 W. Seneca | 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 607351-9504 foodaddicts.org | Free Tree Buds Tree Phenology Walk | 3 p.m., 10/7 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 Despair and Discovery Circle | 6:30 p.m., 10/7 Monday | Foundation of Light, 391 Turkey Hill Rd. | From the Planetary to the Personal, all despair is interconnected. | $10.00 - $20.00

BackPage

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ALL ABOUT MACS

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ANIMALS

LAND & SEA FingerLakesAnimalRights.org

For rates and information contact front@ ithactimes.com 277-7000

CLEANING SERVICES

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JANITORIAL* DEEP CLEANINGS * INDEPENDENCE CLEANERS CORP Call 607-697-3294

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