May 22, 2024

Cornell University Under Fire for Alleged Discrimination Against Glaziers Union

By Matt Dougherty

The Glaziers Union has launched a campaign to bring public attention to what it describes as discriminatory practices by Cornell University against Union Glaziers. The union, representing Architectural Glass and Metal Technicians, issued a press release on May first outlining the details of its grievances and announcing a series of informational rallies planned for the month of May.

Glaziers, who specialize in the installation and maintenance of glass and metal fixtures in buildings, are integral to the construction industry. Their work includes handling glass windows, doors, railings, skylights, storefronts, and curtain wall systems, which are essential for enclosing and sealing modern buildings against the elements. Union Glaziers, in particular, undergo extensive training programs to ensure they install these systems with precision and high standards of quality.

Despite their qualifications and the critical nature of their work, the Glaziers Union asserts that Cornell University has treated Union Glaziers “like second-class

citizens for decades.” The press release highlights that, while Cornell honors agreements with many other unionized building trades, it steadfastly refuses to recognize the Glaziers Union. This refusal, according to the union, results in the university awarding contracts to nonunion glazing contractors who lack crucial certifications.

These certifications—NACC (North American Contractor Certification) and AGMT (Architectural Glass and Metal Technician)—are described as “objective third-party verifications that a contractor and its glaziers possess the skills necessary to perform the work proficiently.” By bypassing Union Glaziers who hold these certifications in favor of non-union contractors who do not, Cornell is accused of undermining the quality and safety standards of its construction projects.

The press release sharply criticizes Cornell University’s stance, calling it “GLASSBACKWARDS.” The Glaziers Union points out the irony of this situation, given that Cornell houses the School of Industrial and Labor Relations (ILR), which is renowned for its focus on work, employment, and labor studies. The ILR School

X Adrianna Hirtler Honored with 2023 Richard B. Fischer Environmental Conservation Award

Ithaca, NY — The Town of Ithaca Conservation Board has awarded Adrianna Hirtler the 21st annual Richard B. Fischer Environmental Conservation Award for 2023. This prestigious award, established in 2003, honors individuals who have made significant contributions to preserving environmental resources in the Town, following the legacy of Dr. Richard B. Fischer.

Hirtler will be officially recognized at a tree-planting ceremony scheduled for Thursday, May 30th, at 5 PM at Tudor Park, located at the intersection of Park Lane and Tudor Road. This event will celebrate her dedication and efforts in environmental conservation.

Hirtler's recognition stems from her extensive work in monitoring the health of the streams and biological communities of the Cayuga Lake watershed. She has engaged the community through various outreach initiatives, including a chalkboard kiosk at Six Mile Creek in Titus Triangle Park, educational field trips for Benthic Macroinvertebrate sampling, and open lab nights at BMI Langmuir Lab. Additionally, she has contributed to analyzing harmful algal blooms at the Community Science Institute’s laboratory.

Her efforts have raised public awareness about the importance

The Glaziers Union says that Cornell honors agreements with many other unionized building trades, but refuses to recognize the Glaziers Union. They say this refusal results in the university awarding contracts to non-union glazing contractors who lack crucial certifications. (Photo: Provided)

prides itself on being the “preeminent educational institution in the world focused on work, employment and labor,” yet, as the union notes, Cornell’s policies towards Union Glaziers starkly contrast with these proclaimed values.

Continued on Page 4

ON THE COVER: Boynton Middle School is one of several schools within the Ithaca City School District that has lost its “Good Standing” status with New York State.

of local water resources and enriched scientific understanding with valuable data. Hirtler's work exemplifies the spirit of the Richard B. Fischer Environmental Conservation Award, highlighting a commitment to both environmental education and preservation.

X Cornell Botanic Gardens and Finger Lakes Native Plant Society Plant Sale

Ithaca, NY — Gardening and native plant enthusiasts can shop for plants for their yards and gardens at the upcoming Cornell Botanic Gardens and Finger Lakes Native Plant Society Plant Sale.

The sale will be held on June 1 at the Botanic Gardens Plant Production Facility, 397 Forest Home Drive, Ithaca.

The sale will feature native plant species from FLNPS members’gardens and propagation efforts as well as assorted annuals, herbs, and perennials from the Cornell Botanic Gardens.

All are welcome; you need not be a member of either FLNPS or the Cornell Botanic Gardens to purchase plants. A portion of the proceeds will be used to support FLNPS in its mission to educate members and the public about the benefits of using native plant species in our landscapes and to promote that activity through lectures, walks, workshops and plant sales.

F r EE lan CE rs : Barbara Adams, G. M Burns, Jane Dieckmann, Charley Githler, Ross Haarstad, Steve Lawrence, Marjorie Olds, Henry Stark, and Arthur Whitman

THE ENTIRE CONTENTS OF THE ITHACA TIMES ARE COPYRIGHT © 2024, BY NEWSKI INC.

All rights reserved. Events are listed free of charge in TimesTable. All copy must be received by Friday at noon. The Ithaca Times is available free of charge from various locations around Ithaca. Additional copies may be purchased from the Ithaca Times offices for $1. SUBSCRIPTIONS: $89 one year. Include check or money order and mail to the Ithaca Times, PO Box 27, Ithaca, NY 14851. ADVERTISING: Deadlines are Monday 5 p.m. for display, Tuesday at noon for classified. Advertisers should check their ad on publication. The Ithaca Times will not be liable for failure to publish an ad, for typographical error, or errors in publication except to the extent of the cost of the space in which the actual error appeared in the first insertion. The publisher reserves the right to refuse advertising for any reason and to alter advertising copy or graphics deemed unacceptable for publication. The Ithaca Times is published weekly Wednesday mornings. Offices are located at 109 N. Cayuga Street, Ithaca, NY 14850 607-277-7000, FAX 607277-1012, MAILING ADDRESS is PO

27, Ithaca, NY 14851. The Ithaca Times was

(1973–1978),

(1972–1978) and The

IN UIRING PHOTOGR PHER Q A

By Mark Syvertson

QUESTION OF THE WEEK: WITH SPRING MIGRATION IN FULL SWING, WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE BIRD YOU’VE SEEN THIS YEAR?

“A very cooperative Blackburnian Warbler.”

– Marie

“I was going to say that too but I think Chestnut-sided

– Greg

survey work.”

– Suan

– Jane

–

Local Leaders Announce Special Olympics New York State Summer Games

By Matt Dougherty

Excitement is building in Ithaca as the city prepares to host the Special Olympics New York State Summer Games for the third consecutive and final year. This event promises to bring immense excitement and community spirit to the area.

Last week, Special Olympics New York President & CEO Stacey Hengsterman and Ithaca College President La Jerne Terry Cornish joined local athletes and coaches from the Ithaca area to share details about the upcoming games at a press conference held at the Tompkins Center for History and Culture.

The 2024 State Summer Games will welcome over 1,200 athletes and coaches from across New York State to Ithaca on June 14-15. This year’s event requires the support of 450 volunteers to ensure its success. During the press conference, Hengsterman and Cornish, alongside Tompkins County Chair Dan Klein, emphasized the critical need for community involvement to support the athletes and ensure the smooth operation of the games.

“We are thrilled to host the Special Olympics New York State Summer Games once again,” said Hengsterman. “The energy and enthusiasm of our athletes are infectious, and we need the community’s support to make this event unforgettable. Volunteering at the games is a unique opportunity to be part of something truly special.”

Following the announcement, a reception for potential sponsors was held amid the museum’s “Sporting Chance” exhibit, which highlights the local Special Olympics NY program. The event’s sponsors play a crucial role in its execution, and this year’s sponsors include Tompkins County (lead sponsor), Bonide, BorgWarner, Cayuga Health System, Challenge Solutions, Chemung Canal Trust Company, Chobani, Coughlin & Gerhart, NYS Department of Civil Service, Gallagher, Guthrie, New York Islanders, NYAble, NYCM Insurance, and New York State Industries for the Dis-

CORNELL UNIVERSITY UNDER FIRE

continued from page 3

“Indeed, while Cornell might gladly accept a Union Glazier’s tuition to enroll in its ‘Labor Leadership Skills Bootcamp,’ it fails to recognize the labor leadership that

abled (NYSID).

Athletes will compete in eight sports during the State Summer Games at various venues across Ithaca. The events include the Opening and Closing Ceremonies, Swimming, Basketball, Gymnastics, Powerlifting, and Volleyball, which will all take place at Ithaca College. Ithaca High School will host the Track & Field events, Midway Lanes will host Bowling, and Cornell University will host Tennis.

“We are so glad to have the Special Olympics back,” said Klein. “I’ve been to some of the events in past years, and the energy and enthusiasm of the athletes are palpable. I believe that energy and enthusiasm spread throughout Tompkins County that weekend and beyond.”

One of the most inspiring aspects of the Special Olympics is the stories of the athletes themselves. Kelly Snedeker, a long-time Special Olympics participant, shared her journey and excitement for the upcoming games.

“My first sport with Special Olympics was bowling, and the very first score I got was a four, but now I get 90s and the hundreds,” Snedeker said. “Being in Special Olympics means a lot to me. I have made many new friends. I like playing sports and hanging out with my friends. My coaches are really nice, and they encourage me to do my best and have fun.”

The Special Olympics New York State Summer Games have significantly impacted Tompkins County over the past three years. The event has fostered a culture of inclusion and highlighted the importance of community support for individuals with disabilities. The lasting legacy of the games is one of unity, pride, and shared achievement.

has trained the most highly skilled glaziers in the industry,” the press release states. This sentiment underscores the perceived hypocrisy in Cornell’s relationship with the labor movement. On one hand, the university benefits from the prestige and financial gain associated with its labor education programs; on the other, it alleg-

While this year marks the end of Ithaca's three-year hosting run, the relationships and memories formed throughout the last three years will live on. As the community rallies to support the athletes, the true spirit of the Special Olympics will shine through once more.

Volunteers are essential to the success of the Special Olympics New York State Summer Games. Those interested in volunteering can sign up on the Special Olympics New York website. The organization offers a variety of roles, ensuring there is something for everyone who wants to be part of this incredible event.

Special Olympics New York is the largest state chapter in the country, serving over 45,000 athletes with year-round sports training, athletic competition, and health screenings. The organization partners with more than 300 schools statewide to offer Unified Sports, where students with and without disabilities compete as teammates. All programs are offered at no cost to athletes, their families, or caregivers. Special Olympics New York has earned the Platinum Seal of Transparency from GuideStar.com, highlighting its commitment to trust and transparency.

For more information about Special Olympics New York, to get involved, or to make a donation, visit www.specialolympicsNY.org.

edly discriminates against a key segment of the labor force.

The Glaziers Union also emphasizes the local impact of this issue. Union Glaziers are often residents of the Ithaca/Tompkins County region, meaning they contribute

Warbler.”

“I’ve been seeing a lot of Bobolinks in my

“I just love Red-winged Blackbirds. The males are so colorful and the females almost look like a different species.”

“It’s probably a tie between Great Crested Flycatcher and Indigo Bunting.”

– Colleen

“The Wood Thrush. Their song is so pretty, I never get tired of hearing it.”

Peggy

Local leaders and Special Olympics participants announced this years State Summer Games, scheduled to take place in Ithaca on June 14-15. (Photo: Matt Dougherty)

The Talk at

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

RE: Cornell Must Pay

“To IDSA Members,

Yes, I agree “Cornell Must Pay.” That battle was lost due to common council caving in to approve the CUs paltry MOU offer. I stand with you as the battle continues; if, I, retired and on a fixed income don’t need to move due to tax burdens. So, yep it’s personal.

If you had attended the 5/14 public meeting you would have heard the NO side from seniors on fixed incomes, single parents, teachers — including a former teacher speaking for ICSD teachers and staff, who feared coming forward. You had to be there to witness the power of the desperation and anger.

I’m confused at your yes stand on the proposed budget. IDSA website states “We believe that both the economy and society should be run democratically to meet the public needs...” Well, those who object to the proposal are part of the public and we have needs.

We, the 37% of property owners, who pay the bulk of school taxes, cannot continue on this escalating path of “financial lunacy.” This includes landlords, renters will feel the increase too.

I agree with IDSA on many things but not on this; the working class, seniors, single parents, the disabled will be forced out of town. Ithaca will not be a diverse community. Ithaca will be a city that only the wealthy can afford. Then, finally Ithaca will be a gated community, a company town customized for Cornell.”

— Lee Rogers

RE: Israel/Palestine

“This is in response to Nathaniel Silver’s letter to the editor. It seems to me like you’re painting Israel as an entity that is free from any blame. In this, you’re completely ignoring that fact that Palestine is an occupied state that has been under a 16 year blockade that has severely limited people’s travel and everyday life, including their access to food, water, and medical treatment. Prior to Oct. 7th, Israel had killed 247 Palestinians in 2023 alone. What is the justification for that? You lived in Israel, you say. Surely you know that the treatment of Palestinians was not the same treatment you received (though, from your attitude, I’m sure you had no problem with this). Israel has stolen land from Palestinians, spit in their faces, and now has killed

over 35,000 people, a great majority of them being women and children. And you— your biggest gripe with the matter is that college students are protesting that Cornell is funding those deaths? It is not anti-Semitic to be against a war that’s killing innocent civilians every single day. I’m sorry that you hate Palestinians so much that you’re trying to conflate the two.” — Anonymous M

“I visited the encampment early on and found the students to whom I talked to be friendly and respectful. They either are missing some vital information in their demands, or they ignore half the story. I would support peaceful protests calling for peace, which would mean blaming Hamas as much as they blame Israel for the current war. Even Palestinian peace activists don’t like how campus protests are focused. Palestinian peace activists want the end of Hamas, which is a terrible oppression of Palestinians AND has promised they’ll continue to attack Israel as they did on October 7 until the Jews are annihilated. Many Arab countries want the end of Hamas. Students chanting antisemitic chants and pro-Hamas chants is unacceptable at Cornell. Iran supports Hamas, including financing, equipping, training and planning attacks. Hamas and Hezbollah continue to this day bombing Israel, attacking, injuring and killing civilians, displacing 80,000 Israelis internally. We want peace, but campus protests won’t result in peace. Peace has to be offered from both sides of a conflict. Since Hamas plans to continue attacking Israel, Israel has decided it will provide more security for their civilians if Hamas is incapacitated. As the Biden administration says repeatedly, the war would have ended if Hamas had returned hostages and laid down arms. Calling for universities to divest from Israel without making a peep about our complex financial relationship with Qatar, another militarized country, is hypocritical.” — Bar Bartholomew

TCAT-Cornell Service Agreement Strains Operations, Threatens Community Routes

“Worth remembering that Ithaca economy is entirely dependent on Cornell without which it would resemble Owego or Penn Yann. Ithaca should prepare for further austerity as Cornell fundraising takes a hit as Oct 7 awakens alumni and donors to the foolishness on campus. Qatar has given Cornell $1.6 billion (not a misprint) but this stream of cash is also finally under scrutiny as well. Maybe Ithaca Times could research DEI

practices at Cornell’s Qatar campus (joke — there are no DEI practices at Cornell’s Qatar campus).” — Steven Baginski

ICSD Voting

“Bottom line; the voting locations are public schools, the very places that are most convenient for school staff to vote “yes” to keep their jobs and the jobs of all their friends. Imagine how much higher voter turnout would be if you didn’t even have to take time off work to drive to the polls, but could instead just walk down the hall past your office door and into the break room to cast your vote. That is the situation now with ICSD staff and it is a huge conflict of interest. To make matters worse the number of people on the ICSD payroll has become so high they make up a large percentage of votes cast, which makes it harder for everyone else to get enough votes to shrink their numbers. What percentage of the school budget votes are cast by ICSD employees?”

— Richard Ballantyne

RE: Election 2024

“Like it or not, we live in the real world. We have an outmoded constitution misinterpreted by a corrupted Supreme Court. Many of our current policies and practices no longer serve us, and we are increasingly surrounded by authoritarian megalomaniacs, at home and abroad. They, with their partners in crime, bombard us with misinformation and lies.

On November 5 in the real world, we have a choice to make regarding the direction of our country and the next four years of its leadership. As Bernie Sanders recently said in The Guardian, “Biden is not popular and many progressives, including me, strongly disagree with his policies regarding Israel and this disastrous war in Gaza. But, let’s be clear. Biden is not running against God. He is running against Donald Trump, the most dangerous president in American history whose second term, if he is reelected, will be worse than his first. And, on his worst day, Biden is a thousand times better than Trump.”*

In our real world third party candidate, Jill Stein, cannot win. She will never garner the needed electoral votes—neither can the addle-brained Bobby Kennedy, Jr. In our real world a vote for either of them, just as not voting at all for President, will be a vote for Trump.

This November 5 in our real world, like it or not, the only choice is to vote

UPS DOWNS&

Ups

The downtown Ithaca Conference Center is slated to open in June 2024, with events booked in July.

Downs

Three people were injured following a motorcycle accident in Ithaca. According to police, the incident happened around 11:30 p.m. Friday in the 300 block of Elmira Rd after the motorcycle allegedly struck a pedestrian. All three were taken to Guthrie Hospital. The operator is listed in stable but critical condition, the passenger in stable condition, and the pedestrian in critical condition.

HEARD SEEN&

Heard

The City of Ithaca has secured a $500,000 grant from the New York State Office of Parks, Recreation, and Historic Preservation (OPRHP) for significant upgrades to the Cass Park Pavilion and adjacent bathroom facilities. The project's total cost is $988,000. The City of Ithaca will need to allocate $488,000 to cover the remaining costs of the project.

Seen

The City of Ithaca is charging Cornell University $529,387.87 for sidewalk construction costs along the 300 block of Fall Creek Drive and the 400 block of Oak Avenue. Payment is due 30 days after the billing date.

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

QUESTION OF THE WEEK

Should the City look for ways to help developers convert unused office space into housing?

66 . 1 % Yes.

25.4% No.

8.5 % I don’t care.

: What's the best part of IthacaFest? Visit ithaca.com to submit your response.

City Council Approves Funding for Wastewater Treatment Plant Capital Improvement Plan

By Matt Dougherty

In a recent City Council meeting, the council members approved a significant financial commitment to a crucial infrastructure project: the Capital Improvement Plan (CIP) for the city’s wastewater treatment plant. This project, with a total estimated cost of $300,000, will be funded partially by a grant from NYSERDA’s FlexTech program, with the remaining cost shared among the City of Ithaca and its municipal partners, the Town of Ithaca and the Town of Dryden.

The City of Ithaca will contribute $122,640 (57.14%), the Town of Ithaca will contribute $105,300 (38.57%), and the Town of Dryden will contribute $11,940 (4.29%).

The wastewater treatment plant is now 38 years old and facing increasing challenges due to its aging infrastructure. The plant, which has a capacity of 13 million gallons per day but averages about 6 million gallons and is crucial for the city’s wastewater management, including primary settling, biological treatment, and tertiary phosphorus removal processes.

approach and track record in securing grants and managing large-scale projects.

“Barton & Loguidice impressed us not just with their technical expertise but also with their proactive approach to securing funding,” Gibson explained. “They immediately identified potential grants and funding sources, which is a huge advantage for us.”

“Our wastewater treatment facility is one of the most important pieces of infrastructure we have.”

— Scott Gibson, a representative from the DPW

“Our wastewater treatment facility is one of the most important pieces of infrastructure we have,” said Scott Gibson, a representative from the Department of Public Works (DPW). “It’s an old plant, and like any other capital asset, it needs significant investment to continue functioning effectively.”

The primary goal of the CIP is to avoid the frequent, reactionary expenditures that have become commonplace as the plant ages. Historically, the city has had to spend large sums of money on emergency repairs, often totaling millions of dollars, which disrupts planning and budget stability.

To develop the CIP, the city engaged Barton & Loguidice, a consulting firm known for its expertise in municipal infrastructure projects. The selection process involved a thorough review of four consulting firms, with Barton & Loguidice standing out due to their comprehensive

The $300,000 project cost will be split based on the ownership percentages of the municipalities: the City of Ithaca owns approximately 57%, the Town of Ithaca about 42%, and the Town of Dryden the remaining portion. If the NYSERDA grant is secured, it will cover 50% of the project cost, significantly reducing the financial burden on the municipalities.

“The grant will be a cost match, so if we get it, the municipalities will only be responsible for $150,000 collectively,” Gibson said. “This approach helps us manage the financial impact more effectively.”

The CIP will focus on both short-term and long-term improvements. In the short term, the plan will address immediate needs such as pump replacements and repairs to aging infrastructure. Long-term goals include energy conservation measures, enhanced methane production, and potential revenue increases through the acceptance of more trucked waste.

NYSERDA grant. This study will assess the plant’s current energy consumption and identify opportunities for reduction. Gibson emphasized the importance of this component, noting, “We want to get to 100% energy self-sufficiency. Currently, we generate about 65% of our energy needs through methane production from waste treatment. Increasing this to 100% would be a significant achievement.”

While there was unanimous support for the project, council members expressed concern over the high costs associated with hiring consultants. Margarita, a council member, voiced her concerns, saying, “We spend a lot of money on consultants, and [this] is a significant amount. I just want to ensure we’re getting value for our money.”

Gibson acknowledged these concerns but emphasized the necessity of expert input for such a technically complex project.

“It’s an old plant, and like any other capital asset, it needs significant investment to continue functioning effectively.”

— Scott Gibson, a representative from the DPW

“We hire consultants because we don’t have the in-house expertise to manage these large-scale projects and secure funding. Barton & Loguidice bring valuable experience and a proven track record in securing grants, which ultimately helps us save money in the long run.” Gibson continued saying, “We fully expect to receive the grant, but in the interests of moving the project forward, we are asking to fund the full amount of the project with a reimbursement when the grant comes through.”

One of the key components of the project is an energy study funded by the

The Capital Project has a total estimated cost of $300,000 and will be funded partially by a grant from NYSERDA’s FlexTech program, with the remaining cost shared among the City of Ithaca and its municipal partners. The City of Ithaca will contribute $122,640. (Photo: File)

Home Team Runs

Local Baseball, Softball Teams Show Surprising Power

By Steve Lawrence

The Cornell baseball team picked up its first postseason win in 12 years when it beat Princeton 9-7 in the opening round of the Ivy League Tournament. Cornell followed up with a win on Saturday, riding a huge six-run seventh inning to storm back from a 6-1 deficit and take down Penn by a score of 7-6.

After the win on Sunday, Cornell was well-positioned in the Ivy championship series, and needed to win one of two on Monday to claim the conference crown. Unfortunately, there was not enough gas left in the tank, and Cornell dropped both games 11-9 and 12-6 to Penn which won their second consecutive Ivy baseball title.

One of Cornell’s standouts was freshman catcher Mark Quatrani, who proved that his recognition on Thursday as a First Team All-Ivy pick was justified. Quatrani’s grand slam on Saturday came on the heels of his clutch three-run shot on Friday, and gave the rookie 11 homers on the season

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

continued from page 5

for Joe Biden who is, by the way, doing the real world work of rebuilding the middle and working classes, fixing our long-neglected infrastructure, reducing college student debt, taking action to mitigate climate change, supporting reproductive rights and gun-violence reduction as well as, albeit slowly, working to rein in Netanyahu’s self-serving destruction of Gaza.

Given that we live in our real world, not the world of wishful thinking, I ask every voter to join me in voting for Joe Biden. He is the only realistic choice—the only adult choice—we have this November.” — Joseph Wilson

“As a member of Veterans for Peace (VFP), I can’t in good conscience vote for either the Democrats or the Republicans. Under both Democrats and Republicans there is relentless militarism. Jill Stein and the Green Party offer an alternative to this militarism.

(leaving him one short of Chris Cruz’s team record, set in 2012).

Cornell has seen a power explosion of sorts, blasting 49 home runs in 2024. That is the most in the program’s 153-year history, and is well beyond the previous record of 38 (set in 2009). The blasts have been timely as well, as eight of them came with the bases loaded, setting yet another record.

At the conclusion of a season, it’s always nice to write about a team’s stellar record, or deep post-season run, but it can be just as rewarding to watch a program make like a Phoenix and rise from the ashes.

The TC3 softball team had struggled through some tough seasons, going winless for a long and painful stretch. Some pitchers had experieced a change of heart after committing to play for the Panthers, and converting position players to pitchers at the collegiate level is just too steep a hill to climb. The team entered this season with some new faces and some optimism, and after putting a 6 in the “W” column, the players are proud to have turned the

Every year the military budget increases: invasions, embargoes, overthrowing of governments, exports of massive amounts of weapons, bombs, and ammo (the US’s biggest export) to fuel wars and genocide around the globe.

A case in point: under Obama/Biden, one trillion dollars was dedicated to “update” the nuclear arsenal over a period of 30 years. Under Trump, another one trillion was allocated over the same 30 years. That works out to 65 billion dollars a year for 30 years or 185 million dollars a day for the next 10,950 days. That is above baseline nuclear spending. Then this ruinous spending is hidden in the Department of Energy budget. This and many other manipulations make the level of “Defense” spending two times as high as our government admits. All done on credit! What could possibly go wrong here? The government says we are only 34.5 trillion dollars in debt (independent economists say well over 100 trillion). And another trillion is being added every 100 days. This cannot end well. Hyperinflation? Collapse of the dollar? With default and the imposition of a CBDC? Beggars on the corners? Refugees behind

program back in a good direction.

After limping out of the gate at 0-6, the team came to life at the Gutchess Sports Complex in Cortland, and I had the good fortune to be there to see it. The Panthers got that first win with a convincing 9-0 win over Broome CC, and, apparently liking that feeling, TC3 hammered out 13 runs in Game 2 to win 13-4. The team’s bats would stay hot in a sweep of SUNY Niagara (13-0 and 10-4), and the final score against Hartwick looked more like a football score at 23-21. Finally, another high-scoring affair — a 16-13 win over Erie CC brought the win total to an even half-dozen.

Freshman Mark Quatrani’s 11 home runs (including two grand slams) have helped lead Cornell’s resurgence and trip to the postseason. (Photo by Cornell Athletics)

“Colin (or Collin),” as Colin Leyner and Collin Feeney were named First-Team All-Liberty League, Louis Fabbo made the Second Team and Colin Shastaty and Jack Picozzi earned Honorable Mention status.

Congrats to the Panthers for turning it around, with help from numerous IAC alums, including Gabby and Abby Foley, Austyn Vance and Mykenzie Thetga (all from Tioga), Emmalyn Ingalls (Dryden), Zoie Burke (Lansing) and Krysten Burns (Trumansburg.)

The I.C. Bomber baseball team put up yet another 30-win season, going 31-11 and getting Dave Valesente his 100th win as head coach along the way. For the Bombers, it was a good year to be names

Home Depot? Third World infrastructure? Health care beyond reach? Affordable housing a cruel joke? Colleges closing? Schools cutting teachers and services? Inflation through the roof? Taxes spiraling up (my property assessment increased 35% this year). These are all stealth taxes directly linked to deficit military spending.

We don’t have to debate issues of morality or international law. Is it a war crime or crimes against humanity. Perhaps genocide. This is a distraction from the simple fact that we cannot afford further ruinous insane irresponsible military spending if we want thriving communities.

The Green Party is apparently the only political party that is taking President Eisenhower’s admonition of “unwarranted influence of the military industrial complex” to heart. Their platform calls for decreasing the military budget by half and eliminating the desolating abomination of nuclear weapons.

On October 12, 2023, the Green Party stated, “We call for an immediate cease fire, an immediate end to the invasion and occupation of Gaza, and a halt to all military and foreign aid to Israel.” The

Wrapping up this baseball-heavy column, I will tip my hat to the pitching staff of a high school team just down the road. I have attended some post-season games played by Owego Free Academy, as it is my alma mater and I have many friends with kids and grand kids playing. I was the #2 starter in high school, and I remember that my arm felt like a heavy log this time of year, but when OFA faced undefeated Oneonta in the STAC title game and Johnson City in the Sectionals, their starters threw 8-0 and 4-0 shutouts. That is some seriously clutch pitching in the post-season.

Green Party foreign policy and military budget platform are a voice for sanity that Veterans for Peace and all people of conscience should support.

In a Time That Breaks In a time that breaks In cutting pieces all around When men, voiceless, Against thing-ridden men, Set themselves on fire, it seems Too difficult and rare To think of the life of a man Grown whole in the world, At peace and in place. But having thought of it I am beyond the time I might have sold my hands Or sold my voice and mind To the arguments of power That go blind against What they would destroy.

— Wendell Berry

I am grieving my increased property taxes as well as grieving for my country being destroyed by military madness.”

— Lynn McMannis, Dryden

Graded Down: School Administration Contests

NYS Education Department Findings

By Maddy Vogel

This year, two more schools in the Ithaca City School District, Boynton and Dewitt middle schools, have lost “good standing” with New York State, following Enfield and Beverly J. Martin Elementary schools which lost their good standing status last year. Losing this status means that specific student groups or the entire student group has low performance, according to the New York State Education Department (NYSED).

NYSED released the 2023-24 accountability designations, which are based on data collected from the 2022-23 academic year, in January of 2024. Boynton and Dewitt were classified as “targeted support and improvement schools” (TSI) by the state, which means they have specific student groups that are performing poorly.

Of the total public schools in the state, only 3.4% received the TSI status for 202324. To identify TSI schools at the middle and elementary level, NYSED analyzes weighted average achievement, core subject performance, English language proficiency and chronic absenteeism.

While this system of accountability statuses was implemented in 2017, both schools have never lost their good standing status, until this year.

Notably, from the 2022-23 data collected, only 7% of grade 8 students were found to be “proficient” in math in Dewitt. This data does not include the scores of eighth grade students who take an advanced math class, typically in ninth grade level algebra 1.

Student proficiency in math for grades 6 and 7, along with proficiency in ELA for grades 6-8, ranged from 56% to 64%. 21.1% of Dewitt’s students were chronically absent. Students who are considered “chronically absent” missed 10% or more of the days they were enrolled in school.

At Boynton, 26% of grade 8 students were proficient in math, while ELA proficiency for grades 6-8 ranged from 46% to 68%. Additionally, 30% of grade 8 students were proficient in science and 25.5% percent of students were chronically absent.

Superintendent Luvelle Brown said the schools are not “failing,” and that the district is actually exceeding state and national averages.

(Photo by Maddy Vogel)

NYSED found that at Boynton and Dewitt, Black or African American students were the target subgroup that needed improvements to academic performance, having disproportionate rates of chronic absenteeism and proficiency scores compared to their peers. At Boynton, 60% of Black or African American students at the school were chronically absent, and at Dewitt, it was 39.5%.

Beverly J. Martin Elementary school is also classified as a TSI by the state, but Enfield is classified as a comprehensive support and improvement school (CSI), meaning that the school has overall low performance across all student groups. From the 2022-23 data collected, NYSED found that both schools made no progress towards improving their accountability status.

Schools that are in “good standing,” are classified as “local support and improvement schools” (LSI) by the state. Just over

Beverly J. Martin Elementary lost good standing with NYSED last year due to student subgroups having disproportionately lower proficiency scores when compared to their peers.

(Photo by Maddy Vogel)

93% of schools in New York state were in good standing in the 2023-24 report.

With four of ICSD’s 12 schools not in good standing, ICSD has become classified as a “target district,” falling into the 18.4% of New York State school districts that have this distinction. Becoming a target district means ICSD will be required to develop an annual District Comprehensive Improvement Plan (DCIP) informed by school-level needs assessments.

For their 2023-24 DCIP, ICSD said their three main goals were to increase the capacity of teachers in the area of culturally and linguistically responsive teaching practices, increase family engagement through centering student voices and ensure cohesive curriculum in English language arts and mathematics that is aligned horizontally and vertically.

Carlan Gray, principal for Dewitt Middle School, declined to comment on the change in accountability status and the

next steps for Dewitt Middle School. Boynton Middle School Principal Lauren Wright and Superintendent Luvelle Brown did not directly respond to the Ithaca Times’ request for comment.

DISTRICT SAYS IT IS “FAR FROM FAILING” IN RESPONSE

After the Ithaca Times shared the news online on Monday, May 7 that two additional ICSD schools lost their good standing, the district asserts that they are “far from failing.”

On Saturday, May 18, the district released a news release titled, “Far From Failing: What Accountability Status is Really Telling Us.” Superintendent Luvelle Brown also briefly spoke about the loss of good standing at the Tuesday, May 14 board meeting, where 20 individuals spoke out against the budget and several expressed concern regarding the district having several schools that are not in good standing.

“Data is a powerful tool, but can easily be misinterpreted,” the release says. “There are many areas in which the ICSD can improve and continue to sustain important programming, but there are also many points of pride and reasons to celebrate. We honor our educators and students who put in the hard work in and out of classrooms.”

In response to the individuals who spoke about their concerns over the loss of good standing status, Brown says that the district is actually exceeding state and national averages.

“We’ve been sharing elements, artifacts and specific data points [in curriculum committee meetings] around tests and all kinds of other qualitative and quantitative measures that we capture in the school district for young people and staff that shows not only are we doing well, but we’re exceeding state and national averages,” Brown said. Brown emphasized that the schools are not “failing” or “in need of some improvement”, according to apparent conversations he has had with individuals at NYSED.

“I’ve talked to folks at State Ed,” Brown said. “They haven't said we’re failing, they

ICSD provided a breakdown of the accountability statuses by student subgroup for each of their 12 schools. The blocks highlighted in red are groups that have been cited by New York as targeted support and improvement (TSI) or comprehensive support and improvement (CSI) models.

have said we’re in need of some improvement, some of the things I’ve heard today. [...]So when engaging with this dialogue moving forward, for the folks who may listen to this that aren’t in the room now, let’s, one, come to the table with common understanding about what we’re talking about.”

The district says in the release that ICSD is among many other districts throughout the state and country struggling to “increase the state test scores for students who identify as Black and/or are economically disadvantaged.”

The district also cites that many of the issues the schools are currently facing are systemic and were worsened by the pandemic.

“We take these designations very seriously and are grateful for the extra support from our state to provide better support for all of our students and help us address systemic issues made worse by a pandemic,” the release states. “This is by no means an excuse,

but a chance for us further our commitment to reverse the legacy of racism and establish communities built on love and joy.”

The release provides a “By The Numbers” graphic, which shares several statistics about ICSD and compares them to national averages. The graphic shows a four-year graduation rate that is 5% higher than the state average and a per-pupil spending that is about $2,000 less than the state average of $26,857.

The release boasts that “only one percent of public schools in NYS are as large and diverse as the ICSD.” On their FAQ page within the release, they say their schools are not failing, and that eight of their other schools have not been identified as needing target support.

“The State’s identification of four of our schools does not mean that those schools are failing,” the statement says. “It means that we need to and should target support

for small subgroups of students at those schools. All eight of our other schools have not been identified, and most subgroups at all of our schools, including those identified, are high-performing.”

NEXT STEPS

According to ICSD, Enfield, Beverly J. Martin, Boynton, and DeWitt “will soon engage with caregivers, students, and teachers to ask how they think the school can do better.”

They state that after this engagement, each school will develop a School Comprehensive Education Plan (SCEP) for the 2024-25 school year, which “will describe the commitments the school is making to improve student success, name the specific strategies that will help the school move towards these commitments, and identify the goals and benchmarks throughout the year that describe what progress will look like.”

Because ICSD is a target district, they will

be required to develop an annual District Comprehensive Improvement Plan (DCIP) informed by school-level needs assessments and SCEPs completed within the district.

The SCEP and DCIP plans must be completed and approved by the first day of school in the upcoming school year, according to ICSD.

NYSED provides supplemental funding to target districts through Title I 1003 School Improvement Grant (SIG) and ICSD is eligible to apply for SIG Planning funds for planning and development of the improvement plans. According to ICSD, the SIG Planning funds can be used to support staff and family participation in the development of the 2024-25 school improvement plans, including things such as childcare and transportation to meetings.

For more information on the district’s response, go to https://www.ithacacityschools.org/o/boynton/article/1606554.

IAED Comprehensive Report

Restaurant Inspections

Ithaca Area Economic Development Presents Comprehensive Report on Regional Progress

By Matt Dougherty

The Ithaca Area Economic Development (IAED) organization convened its annual meeting on May 15th at the Ithaca Marriott Downtown on the Commons, drawing nearly 100 business leaders, community partners, and elected officials. The event highlighted IAED’s 2023 achievements and previewed ongoing and future projects to drive economic growth across Central New York.

IAED President Heather McDaniel and Chris Montgomery, Director of Business Affairs for the SUNY Educational Opportunity Center, led the presentations, emphasizing IAED’s pivotal role in regional economic initiatives, particularly in partnerships around Micron in Syracuse and the burgeoning battery technology hub in Binghamton.

Reflecting on the organization’s progress, McDaniel expressed her enthusiasm and optimism. “Our annual meeting was insightful and inspiring. This area is on the precipice of tremendous change, and IAED is at the forefront of harnessing the opportunity to improve economic prosperity for all. I’m proud of the IAED team, community, stakeholders, and investors. It takes a village, and I’m excited about our shared future.” In 2023, IAED stimulated a remarkable $163 million in private investment, generated $10.3 million in new property taxes, and facilitated $14.5 million in new payroll. Additionally, IAED oversaw the construction of 294 housing units, with 25% designated as affordable housing. This effort was further supported by payments totaling

$913,000 into the Community Housing Development Fund to bolster affordable housing initiatives across Tompkins County. These figures represent significant increases over the previous year, underscoring IAED’s impact on the local economy.

One of the standout initiatives discussed at the meeting was IAED’s Directto-Work training program. Initially focused on manufacturing, the program is now expanding into the building trades, a critical area given the anticipated demand for construction jobs. McDaniel detailed the program’s expansion plans, noting, “Micron alone is expected to need 5,600 construction jobs over the next 20 years. IAED’s new program will replicate the successful Syracuse Build model and is part of a coordinated effort across the region to meet anticipated labor demand.”

Cathy Hart, Ithaca Marriott General Manager and IAED Board President, lauded the program’s impact, saying, “IAED’s breadth and scope are amazing. From business support to financial services and special projects, IAED really is a catalyst for economic development. Their success in workforce training programs is also making an impact on important regional initiatives, further evidence of IAED’s reach.”

IAED’s commitment to fostering regional partnerships was a key theme throughout the meeting. The organization’s role in supporting Micron’s operations in Syracuse and developing the battery technology hub in Binghamton was highlighted as a prime example of its collaborative approach. McDaniel and Montgomery emphasized how

IAED’s Direct-to-Work training program was initially focused on manufacturing, but the program is now expanding into the building trades given the anticipated demand for construction jobs. (Photo: Provided)

these partnerships are vital to the region’s economic future, creating opportunities for investment, job creation, and technological advancement.

The meeting also served as an opportunity to introduce IAED’s 2024 board slate, featuring familiar names and community leaders committed to continuing the organization’s mission. The board’s diverse representation ensures that various perspectives are considered in decision-making processes, further enhancing IAED’s ability to address the community’s needs and priorities.

Looking ahead, IAED is focused on several key projects and strategic initiatives designed to sustain and accelerate regional economic growth. Among these are efforts to enhance infrastructure, support small businesses, and promote sus-

tainable development practices. McDaniel outlined the organization’s strategic vision, emphasizing the need for adaptive and forward-thinking approaches to economic development.

The IAED annual meeting was a testament to the organization’s achievements and unwavering commitment to regional economic development. With a strong foundation of past successes and a clear vision for the future, IAED is well-positioned to continue driving positive change in Central New York.

As the meeting concluded, attendees left with a renewed sense of purpose and optimism, ready to support IAED’s mission of fostering economic prosperity and improving the quality of life for all residents in the region.

Business Briefs

Restaurant Health Inspections

BOATYARD GRILL: 525 Taughannock Boulevard, Ithaca

LAST INSPECTED 03/27/2024

TOTAL # CRITICAL VIOLATIONS 1

TOTAL #NONCRITICAL VIOLATIONS 2

VIOLATIONS Item 6B- Critical Violation [RED] Enough hot holding equipment is not present, properly designed, maintained and operated to keep hot foods above 140°F.; Item 8A- Food not protected during storage, preparation, display, transportation and service, from potential sources of contamination (e.g., food uncovered, mislabeled, stored on floor, missing or inadequate sneeze guards, food containers double stacked); Item 8E- Accurate thermometers not available or used to evaluate refrigerated or heated storage temperatures.

KELLY'S DOCKSIDE KAFE: 319 Old Taughannock Boulevard, Ithaca

LAST INSPECTED 04/09/2024

TOTAL # CRITICAL VIOLATIONS 1

TOTAL # NONCRITICAL VIOLATIONS 1

VIOLATIONS Item 5C- Critical Violation [RED] Potentially hazardous foods are not stored under refrigeration except during necessary preparation or approved pre-cooling procedures (room temperature storage).; Item 11B- Wiping cloths dirty, not stored properly in sanitizing solutions.

ETA PIE: 1006 West Seneca Street, Ithaca LAST INSPECTED 03/28/2023

TOTAL # CRITICAL VIOLATIONS 0

TOTAL # NONCRITICAL VIOLATIONS 1

VIOLATIONS Item 8E- Accurate thermometers not available or used to evaluate refrigerated or heated storage temperatures.

RHINE HOUSE: 632 West Seneca Street, Ithaca

LAST INSPECTED 12/08/2023

VIOLATIONS No violations found.

TOTAL # CRITICAL VIOLATIONS 0

TOTAL # NONCRITICAL VIOLATIONS 0

MAXIE'S SUPPER CLUB: 635 West State Street, Ithaca

LAST INSPECTED 05/08/2024

VIOLATIONS No violations found.

TOTAL # CRITICAL VIOLATIONS 0

TOTAL # NONCRITICAL VIOLATIONS 0

TASTE OF THAI EXPRESS:

209 South Meadow Street, Ithaca

LAST INSPECTED 03/22/2024

VIOLATIONS Item 9B- Tobacco is used; eating, drinking in food preparation, dishwashing food storage areas; Item 11BWiping cloths dirty, not stored properly in sanitizing solutions;

TOTAL # CRITICAL VIOLATIONS 0

TOTAL #NONCRITICAL VIOLATIONS 2

SAL’S PIZZERIA: 220 South Fulton Street, Ithaca

LAST INSPECTED 03/21/2023

VIOLATIONS Item 11B- Wiping cloths dirty, not stored properly in sanitizing solutions;

TOTAL # CRITICAL VIOLATIONS 0

TOTAL #NONCRITICAL VIOLATIONS 1

ITHACA SAIGON KITCHEN: 526 West State Street, Ithaca

LAST INSPECTED 02/23/2024

VIOLATIONS Item 8B- In use food dispensing utensils improperly stored.

TOTAL # CRITICAL VIOLATIONS 0

TOTAL # NONCRITICAL VIOLATIONS 1

WESTY: 516 West State Street, Ithaca

LAST INSPECTED 01/23/2023

VIOLATIONS No violations found.

TOTAL # CRITICAL VIOLATIONS 0

TOTAL # NONCRITICAL VIOLATIONS 0

GIMME COFFEE – STATE ST: 506 West State Street, Ithaca

LAST INSPECTED 01/11/2024

VIOLATIONS No violations found.

TOTAL # CRITICAL VIOLATIONS 0

TOTAL #NONCRITICAL VIOLATIONS 0

GIMME COFFEE – CAYUGA ST: 430 North Cayuga Street, Ithaca

LAST INSPECTED 01/11/2024

VIOLATIONS Item 11B- Wiping cloths dirty, not stored properly in sanitizing solutions;

TOTAL # CRITICAL VIOLATIONS 0

TOTAL # NONCRITICAL VIOLATIONS 1

STATE DINER: 428 West State Street, Ithaca

LAST INSPECTED 04/09/2024

VIOLATIONS Item 8A- Food not protected during storage, preparation, display, transportation and service, from potential sources of contamination (e.g., food uncovered, mislabeled, stored on floor, missing or inadequate sneeze guards, food containers double stacked);

TOTAL # CRITICAL VIOLATIONS 0

TOTAL # NONCRITICAL VIOLATIONS 1

ROOK: 404 West State Street, Ithaca LAST INSPECTED 05/07/2024

VIOLATIONS No violations found.

TOTAL # CRITICAL VIOLATIONS 0

TOTAL # NONCRITICAL VIOLATIONS 0

MEADOW COURT INN: 529 South Meadow Street, Ithaca

LAST INSPECTED 04/23/2024

VIOLATIONS Item 8E- Accurate thermometers not available or used to evaluate refrigerated or heated storage temperatures; Item 11B- Wiping cloths dirty, not stored properly in sanitizing solutions;

TOTAL # CRITICAL VIOLATIONS 0

TOTAL # NONCRITICAL VIOLATIONS 2

CHILI’S GRILL & BAR: 608 South Meadow Street, Ithaca

LAST INSPECTED 03/28/2024

VIOLATIONS No violations found.

TOTAL # CRITICAL VIOLATIONS 0

TOTAL #NONCRITICAL VIOLATIONS 0

BARNES & NOBLE: 614 South Meadow Street, Ithaca

LAST INSPECTED 01/10/2024

VIOLATIONS Item 8F- Improper thawing procedures used; Item 9B- Tobacco is used; eating, drinking in food preparation, dishwashing food storage areas; Item 12E-Handwashing facilities inaccessible, improperly located, dirty, in disrepair, improper fixtures, soap, and single service towels or hand drying devices missing;

TOTAL # CRITICAL VIOLATIONS 0

TOTAL #NONCRITICAL VIOLATIONS 3

PANERA BREAD BAKERY-CAFE: 748 South Meadow Street, Ithaca

LAST INSPECTED 02/13/2024

VIOLATIONS Item 8E- Accurate thermometers not available or used to evaluate refrigerated or heated storage temperatures;

TOTAL # CRITICAL VIOLATIONS 0

TOTAL #NONCRITICAL VIOLATIONS 1

CHIPOTLE MEXICAN GRILL: 740 South Meadow Street, Ithaca LAST INSPECTED 03/28/2024

VIOLATIONS No violations found.

TOTAL # CRITICAL VIOLATIONS 0

TOTAL # NONCRITICAL VIOLATIONS 0

MIX SOCIAL DINING: 205 Old Elmira Road, Ithaca

LAST INSPECTED 05/08/2024

TOTAL # CRITICAL VIOLATIONS 1

TOTAL # NONCRITICAL VIOLATIONS 2

VIOLATIONS Item 7F- Critical Violation [RED]

Precooked, refrigerated potentially hazardous food is not reheated to 165°F or above within two hours.; Item 8A- Food not

protected during storage, preparation, display, transportation and service, from potential sources of contamination (e.g., food uncovered, mislabeled, stored on floor, missing or inadequate sneeze guards, food containers double stacked); Item 8E- Accurate thermometers not available or used to evaluate refrigerated or heated storage temperatures;

PUDGIES: 215 Elmira Road, Ithaca

LAST INSPECTED 04/26/2024

TOTAL # CRITICAL VIOLATIONS 0

TOTAL # NONCRITICAL VIOLATIONS 2

VIOLATIONS Item 10B- Non-food contact surfaces and equipment are improperly designed, constructed, installed, maintained (equipment not readily accessible for cleaning, surface not smooth finish); Item 12E- Handwashing facilities inaccessible, improperly located, dirty, in disrepair, improper fixtures, soap, and single service towels or hand drying devices missing.

FIVE GUYS BURGERS & FRIES: 222 Elmira Road, Ithaca

LAST INSPECTED 04/26/2024

VIOLATIONS No violations found.

TOTAL # CRITICAL VIOLATIONS 0

TOTAL#NONCRITICALVIOLATIONS0

SPICY ASIAN: 335 Elmira Road, Ithaca

LAST INSPECTED 04/19/2024

VIOLATIONS Item 8E- Accurate thermometers not available or used to evaluate refrigerated or heated storage temperatures; Item 8F- Improper thawing procedures used; Item 11B- Wiping cloths dirty, not stored properly in sanitizing solutions;

TOTAL # CRITICAL VIOLATIONS 0

TOTAL #NONCRITICAL VIOLATIONS 3

OLD MEXICO: 357 Elmira Road, Ithaca

LAST INSPECTED 02/13/2024

VIOLATIONS Item 8E- Accurate thermometers not available or used to evaluate refrigerated or heated storage temperatures;

TOTAL # CRITICAL VIOLATIONS 0

TOTAL # NONCRITICAL VIOLATIONS 1

PURITY ICE CREAM: 700 Cascadilla Street, Ithaca

LAST INSPECTED 05/12/2023

TOTAL # CRITICAL VIOLATIONS 0

TOTAL # NONCRITICAL VIOLATIONS 1

VIOLATIONS Item 11B- Wiping cloths dirty, not stored properly in sanitizing solutions.

SWEET MELISSA’S: 200 West Seneca Street, Ithaca

LAST INSPECTED 08/29/2023

VIOLATIONS Item 8B- In use food dispensing utensils improperly stored;

TOTAL # CRITICAL VIOLATIONS 0

TOTAL # NONCRITICAL VIOLATIONS 1

TAMARIND: 503 North Meadow Street, Ithaca

LAST INSPECTED 03/28/2024

VIOLATIONS No violations found.

TOTAL # CRITICAL VIOLATIONS 0

TOTAL # NONCRITICAL VIOLATIONS 0

THAI BASIL: 118 West State Street, Ithaca

LAST INSPECTED 01/17/2024

TOTAL # CRITICAL VIOLATIONS 0

TOTAL # NONCRITICAL VIOLATIONS 2

VIOLATIONS Item 9B- Tobacco is used: eating, drinking in food preparation, dishwashing food storage areas; Item 12EHandwashing facilities inaccessible, improperly located, dirty, in disrepair, improper fixtures, soap, and single service towels or hand drying devices missing.

SUSHI OSAKA: 113 East State Street, Ithaca

LAST INSPECTED 04/26/2024

VIOLATIONS No violations found.

TOTAL # CRITICAL VIOLATIONS 0

TOTAL #NONCRITICAL VIOLATIONS 0

MOOSEWOOD RESTAURANT: 215 North Cayuga Street, Ithaca

LAST INSPECTED 05/01/2024

TOTAL # CRITICAL VIOLATIONS 0

TOTAL#NONCRITICALVIOLATIONS3

VIOLATIONS Item 8E- Accurate thermometers not available or used to evaluate refrigerated or heated storage temperatures; Item 8G- Raw foods not properly washing prior to serving; Item 12EHandwashing facilities inaccessible, improperly located, dirty, in disrepair, improper fixtures, soap, and single service towels or hand drying devices missing.

TASTE OF THAI: 216 East State Street, Ithaca LAST INSPECTED 01/17/2024

VIOLATIONS No violations found.

TOTAL # CRITICAL VIOLATIONS 0 TOTAL # NONCRITICAL VIOLATIONS 0

LINCOLN ST DINER: 309 East Lincoln Street, Ithaca LAST INSPECTED 03/14/2024

VIOLATIONS No violations found.

TOTAL # CRITICAL VIOLATIONS 0 TOTAL #NONCRITICAL VIOLATIONS 0

HOTEL ITHACA: 222 South Cayuga Street, Ithaca

LAST INSPECTED 05/08/2024

VIOLATIONS Item 1H- Critical Violation [RED] Food from unapproved source, spoiled, adulterated on premises.; Item 8AFood not protected during storage, preparation, display, transportation and service, from potential sources of contamination (e.g., food uncovered, mislabeled, stored on floor, missing or inadequate sneeze guards, food containers double stacked); Item 11B- Wiping cloths dirty, not stored properly in sanitizing solutions; Item 15A- Floors, walls, ceilings. not smooth, properly constructed, in disrepair, dirty surfaces; TOTAL # CRITICAL VIOLATIONS 1 TOTAL # NONCRITICAL VIOLATIONS 3

ITHACA GHOST KITCHEN: 308-310 Stewart Avenue, Ithaca LAST INSPECTED 06/09/2023

TOTAL # CRITICAL VIOLATIONS 0

TOTAL #NONCRITICAL VIOLATIONS 1

VIOLATIONS: Item 10B- Non-food contact surfaces and equipment are improperly designed, constructed, installed, maintained. (equipment not readily accessible for cleaning, surface not smooth finish)

The William Benson Retrospective –a Career of Expressing Beauty

By Brian Keeler

Iam a long-time fan of Bill Benson’s artwork and this 40 year retrospective is a beautiful culmination of a career well spent and life well-lived. So it was an incredible treat to view this collection and especially rewarding to see the opening so well attended. The show is wonderfully presented in a beautiful space at the Saltonstall Foundation located just a few miles east of Ithaca.

My first encounter with seeing Bill’s work goes way back, perhaps to circa 1981 or thereabouts. A bar that I occasionally went to where other “townies” frequented, Pete’s Bar on Cayuga Street, had an issue of the Grapevine (the former weekly paper) with an illustration of Bill’s featured, framed on the bar. I was immediately attracted to the draftsmanship in the work. I knew this guy knew how to draw and draw well. Over the decades I was continually amazed at his work when I would see it at various galleries and frame shops. One of the earliest encounters with Bill’s figurative work was a large nude of his wife depicted from the back while she was sorting through a closet. It was in the frame shop of Geoff Sacco’s on Aurora Street. Shortly after I saw this painting, I did a painting of my own directly inspired by Bill’s work.

The exhibit nicely presents two separate but related aspects of Bill’s career; his explorations of geometric abstraction and process-oriented pieces along with his consummate portrayal of human character through his portraiture and other subjects portrayed in an academic type

of realism. The abstracted explorations show a beautiful culmination and resolution to this urge to express the underlying principles of creating art. Oftentimes viewers are impressed by the details and articulation of form in master paintings, say an Andrew Wyeth portrait or landscape, which is well deserved. But Bill is serving art well when he shows us the interrelationships and dynamics of his work and his thinking. We may think of other pure abstractionists like Kandinsky, Mondrian or the more hybrid painters like Diebenkorn, but for my money, Bill’s work is much more rewarding. These design-oriented expressions show us the poetic rhymes of painting the beauty of the process itself independent of the subjects. So many painters endeavor to do this in many different ways and Bill has achieved truly unique and memorable results. And then there is the color in these works that plays with abstraction. The color is nicely freed up in a way that perhaps the traditional realism of portraits do not allow for. There is a beauty here too in the liberation of color, intense blues in the shadows in certain pieces and divergent purples in others. At the same time in the same piece we can see the more traditional color or what is called local color conveyed.

One piece, a large oil of a “Hot Cycle” child’s toy uses bright primaries: red, yellow and blue in a daring way. Using primaries with such unadulterateded application may have been dissuaded in art schools, but Bill flaunts that idea with this successful work. Taking the quotidian object of a child’s toy and finding in it an inspiration is quite enjoyable.

We painters may also think of the idea of paint quality when looking at Benson’s

work, which means the beauty of the paint and the brushwork on its own merits regardless of the subject. And here, too, all of Bill’s work shows an appreciation and knowledge of how to express this aspect of the painter’s craft. His portraits include this, with wonderfully fluid brushwork. There’s an Italian word that perfectly describes this quality, sprezzatura, which means a sort of effortless ease to execution. The brushwork never seems to be self-aggrandizing, however, meaning that it serves to bring out form and personality in each sitter. While viewing the group of Bill’s portraits in this show, one small oil of a woman included these wonderful passages of cool, but subtle greens in the shadows. And again, these are nicely understated hues that serve the portrait.

The regional landscapes in the show bring out this blending of design, process and realism most fully. Using outlines that are sometimes subtle and other times brazen in gold leaf or bright contrasting color, of circles, rectangles and squares with reference to the golden ratio and the Fibonacci sequence, we are allowed avenues to contemplate the surface relationships. But with the wonderfully articulated landscapes combined with structural geometries we can also appreciate the wonderful light of the golden hour on landscapes of upstate New York that we all love. Bill explains that some of the abstract elements are related to the serendipitous occurrences of for example, the glint of the sun on a windshield during a drive through the

Continued on Page 15

& Entertainment

Interested viewers can see William Benson’s exhibit at the Constance Saltonstall Foundation for the Arts.

One of Bill Benson’s large-scale landscape paintings incorporating geometric abstraction and painterly principles. The view is from a location southwest of Ithaca on Bostwick Hill Road. The painting is in the private collection of Gretchen Herrmann who happens to live near this spot.

I Saw the TV Glow

New Sci-Film Shows TV as a Reflection of Teens’ Lives

By Matt Minton

Iremember late nights watching some of my favorite television shows, not being able to tear myself away from the ongoing action on screen. But I also remember the nights simply staring at the black-and-white flicker as I clicked through different channels in search of something new. I remember being drawn to the bouncing DVD logo after letting the main menu sit for too long.

I could never look away.

I remember what it was like to feel seen and heard for the first time in a sci-fi world completely different than my own. The specific relationship that queer people have with the media that shapes and informs their identity is pivotal to understanding what’s going on underneath the suburban surface of director Jane Schoenbrun’s sophomore feature “I Saw the TV Glow.”

The lonely and mostly mute Owen (Justice Smith) is one such teenager who finds himself completely transformed after his older classmate, Maddy (Brigette LundyPaine), introduces him to a monster-ofthe-week show called “The Pink Opaque.”

“I

Saw the TV Glow”

Rated PG-13

Directed by Jane Schoenbrun

Starring Justice Smith and Bridgette Lundy-Paine

Now playing at Cinemapolis

120 East Green Street, Ithaca

As Owen sneaks away from his distant parents to immerse himself in the world of slimy monsters and cheesy yet endearing 90s dialogue, he becomes confronted with the fact that the show may be coming to life… somehow, somewhere.

Schoenbrun made a name for themselves in the independent film scene with 2021’s “We’re All Going to the World’s Fair,” a uniquely unsettling movie about coming of age under the internet’s guise that gets under your skin without ever caring to tie up loose ends. Film goers frustrated with Schoenbrun’s debut may have similar problems with A24’s “I Saw the TV Glow,” a bold and visionary feat that lingers — and effectively so — on the silent spaces between the characters and the screen. For me, Schoenbrun’s profound exploration of gender is a massive improvement in every way.

On an aesthetic level, “I Saw the TV Glow” has a visual style all of its own. The use of purple and green tones creates a fantastical, otherworldly effect even in the most mundane and awkward school situations. Owen and Maddy are frequently framed with the media they are watching behind them, showing their intimacy with the stories on screen and how they reflect onto their own lives. Alex G’s haunting and revelatory score punctuates these on-screen elements with honesty and selfreflection.

Labeling “I Saw the TV Glow” as pure horror would be a bit misleading, but it shouldn’t take away from some of the uniquely terrifying sequences that

Owen (Justice Smith) i finds himself completely transformed after his older classmate, Maddy (Brigette Lundy-Paine), introduces him to a monster-of-the-week show.

(Photo provided)

showcase Owen’s struggles to tap into his true self. While there are monsters in “The Pink Opaque” that the characters can point to, the main conflict comes from Owen’s inner gender dysphoria.

Smith and Lundy-Paine are terrific scene partners, allowing the audience to understand each character’s innate awkwardness while never letting us doubt their closeness over multiple years. In particular, Lundy-Paine shines in a monologue after Maddy finds an older Owen to tell him about the show’s impact on her adult life. Both Smith and LundyPaine nail their respective characters at different emotional stages in their lives and how that manifests physically.

For a film all about the self-reflective impact of media, Schoenbrun has also created this effect through their directing choices as well. Once in a while, Owen will directly monologue to the screen and break the fourth wall, showing him trying to take ownership of his story as his own walls slowly fall apart.

Another key moment between Owen and Maddy at a bar cuts away from their emotional conversation and zooms in on a hard rock solo by one of the singers on stage. In a meta sort of way, the camera seems to be drawing itself away from difficult moments in line with Owen’s journey. Through these artistic choices, Schoenbrun’s command on every aspect of creation is fully evident.

There is no other director out there tackling what it means to be queer in the face of evolving technology quite like Schoenbrun. “I Saw the TV Glow” manages to be both life-affirming and pacifying by the end.

The shows we watch growing up have the unique ability to help us discover our identity while also distancing ourselves from the world around us. This push-and-pull dynamic is instrumental to understanding what Schoenbrun has up their sleeve here and what we can expect next in the growing subgenre of queer horror.

CORNELL UNIVERSITY UNDER FIRE

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to the local economy through taxes and community involvement. By favoring non-union contractors, Cornell not only compromises on quality but also neglects its responsibility to support local workers. The union’s press release calls for public awareness and support, stating, “We believe that students, parents, professors, alumni, and the public have a right to know about Cornell’s duplicity.” To this

WASTEWATER TREATMENT PLANT

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The approval of this CIP is not just a response to the plant’s current needs but also a proactive measure to ensure the facility can meet future demands and regulatory requirements. New state regulations on

THE WILLIAM BENSON RETROSPECTIVE

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country. Amazing and poetic as they are, we also appreciate time-honored Renaissance principles like perspective and drawing. In regards to the Renaissance, there is even a quote or reference to Leonardo’s Vitruvian Man in one still life.

Speaking of still life, there are several paintings in this genre included. They harken back to art history in their own way, specifically the Dutch Masters of the 17th century. The type of still life that Bill often makes an homage to is the Vanitas type of still life. These works, also called momenti mori, or contemplations and meditations on the brevity of life, often include skulls. The skulls are often juxtaposed with perishable items, like flowers or fruit in the Dutch paintings, as with Bill’s work. His paintings with peaches are a case in point. Bill explains that peaches are much more difficult to paint than an apple, because they don’t provide the opportunity to portray the reflected light and smooth forms of a pear or apple. Due to the fuzzy surface of peaches they are much more challenging to paint and show the roundness of their forms. There is also a still life with a skull that shows white canvas and an actual wood frame that is suspended over the canvas. The still life with peaches mentioned above was painted relatively early, before the experimentations with thinners, varnishes and spattered paint. These latter usages of paint have a watercolor-like quality

end, the Glaziers Union has organized a series of informational practice rallies throughout May 2024, culminating in a Commencement Rally on May 25, 2024. These rallies aim to shine a light on Cornell’s treatment of Union Glaziers and mobilize community support.

“To shine a light on Cornell’s hypocrisy, the Glaziers Union will engage in informational practice rallies throughout the month of May 2024. The practice rallies will culminate in our Commencement Rally on May 25, 2024,” the release announces. The union stresses that these

wastewater treatment are expected to be more stringent, making this investment timely and essential.

“We’re looking toward the future and making sure we’re prepared for any new regulations that come down the line,” Scott said. “This project will help us make informed decisions and prioritize our investments effectively.”

that show transparencies and opacities over untoned linen, so we can at times see the pure white gessoed surface. One may think of the technique by watercolorists where they sprinkle salt to create special effects. These processes of oil paint seem to embody deliberation and spontaneity at once.

When we consider Bill’s autodidactic or self-trained career we are even more in awe. Bill attended Cornell University, and graduated in 1972 with dual majors in Art History and Graphics. Although Bill venerates his former teacher at Cornell in one of his portraits, he admits that he did not learn anything about realistic painting at Cornell. Bill says that they basically gave you a set of acrylic paints and told you to go off and find your own way. I have heard similar stories from others who have attended major universities where the guiding aesthetic seems to be that the less skill, craft or fundamentals that are imparted the better. One could easily assume that Bill had trained in one the most rigorous academic ateliers, perhaps with Bouguereau, the French academician of the 19th century. Instead his skill and understanding came through just hard work and study of the masters.

Bill has been represented at Portraits Incorporated in New York City and his career doing portraits is certainly a testament to his ability. Portraits Incorporated is a gallery and dealer in New York that represents some of the best portrait painters in the country. Several years ago, I organized a show of the region’s portrait artists at the Blue Heron Gallery in

rallies are purely informational and not intended to disrupt any ongoing work at Cornell. “The Glaziers Union is NOT asking any person or trade to stop any work on any Cornell projects. We are simply seeking to inform the public about Cornell’s duplicitous stance towards unions as illustrated by its treatment of the Union Glaziers.”

Frank Stento, a representative of the Glaziers Union, is the point of contact for those interested in supporting the cause. He can be reached at (607) 727-5208 or via email at fstento@dc4.org.

The council’s approval marks a significant step towards securing the city’s wastewater infrastructure’s long-term viability and efficiency. With the CIP in place and Barton & Loguidice’s expertise, the city is poised to address its immediate needs and plan strategically for the future, ensuring continued protection of public health and the environment.

Wyalusing, PA which Bill participated in. View a video of Bill working at the bottom of this essay.

And in reference to studying the old masters there are two works, portraits that show an homage to two old masters. One reference is to a portrait by Titian, the Italian Renaissance painter. Titian painted an oil of a young boy, Ranuncio Farnese that Bill used or derived the basic pose for his portrait of his son Cassady. The Titian portrait was in a retrospective of the Italian master’s work at the NGA in DC many years ago, which Bill visited. We also think of Rembrandt in this regard to being inspired by a portrait of Titian, as he used a portrait by the Italian master for one of his own self portraits. The other portrait was inspired by the iconic painting of Vermeer’s Girl with a Pearl Earring. For this work, Bill had his wife Sadie pose in the same position, with a head scarf and lighting similar to the Vermeer. Instead of a pearl earring he chose to portray Sadie wearing a large ringed earring. The size of this canvas is the same as Jan Vermeer’s canvas. And related to the work of Vermeer is another homage, with the setting contemporary and the kodachrome slide, this painting shows us a specific time period of our era. The lighting and interior pose show a wonderful adaptation of the Sphinx of Delft into contemporary terms. We recall Vermeer’s painting of the Geometer or his Woman with a Balance, which both used a model posed in the light of a window while engaged in quiet domestic activity. Having seen the Vermeer retrospective last spring at the Rijksmuse-

As the Glaziers Union prepares for its series of rallies, the broader implications of this dispute highlight a significant issue within labor relations at one of the nation’s leading universities. The outcome of this campaign may not only impact Union Glaziers but also set a precedent for how labor issues are addressed in academic institutions across the country. The union’s call for public support underscores the importance of community involvement in advocating for fair labor practices and holding institutions accountable for their actions.

As the city moves forward with this project, it underscores the critical importance of maintaining and upgrading essential infrastructure. The CIP for the wastewater treatment plant represents a significant investment in the city’s future, promising improved efficiency, sustainability, and resilience for years to come.

um in Amsterdam, I was especially taken by these works.

The show at the Saltonstall Foundation does not include any of Bill’s work portraying the nude, which is unfortunate. There was a show of these works, charcoal drawings of Bill’s many years ago at White Apple Gallery, which, before it burned was a forerunner of the State of the Art Gallery. Bill’s work with the figure is quite remarkable too. We both took a week-long figure painting workshop with the famous painter, Nelson Shanks many years ago at the Studio Incamminati in Philadelphia. It would have been nice to see an example of some of these works in the show. Still, this retrospective had just about the right amount of work and well placed.

Bill and I also painted in Italy together in Barga, which is a small town north of Lucca in Tuscany. While there we painted plein air Italian scenes and visited the Uffizi and other museums. Upon our return we had a two-man show at the Community School of Music and Art here in Ithaca.

So I encourage you to view the exhibit before it is over as viewing the originals, especially paintings with such nuanced and complex structures, is always best in person.

I have written this essay to express my appreciation for Bill and his work. I encourage you to see the video interview that I recorded at the exhibit where Bill speaks for himself and shares his ideas. As perfect as this setting is, one can easily wonder where the Johnson Museum is in honoring a native son? Maybe for another time.