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A WellHydrated Retrospective PAGE 8

Salt Mine

Another

Family

House Of

Meaty

Showdown

Challenger Tom Reed Has Another Opponent

Inside The Waldorf School’s Expansion

Charting The Origins Of Ithaca’s Drag Scene

A Reformed Omnivore Tells His Story

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Lifton Eyes Stop To Cargill’s Under-Lake Mine

Matters

Merlot

Vegan

Coming

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NEWS, OPINION, MUSIC, MOVIES, RESTAURANTS, THEATRE, AND MORE!

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Breathe Easy A lung cancer screening can put your mind at ease. If you’ve been a heavy smoker for many years, even if you’ve recently quit, you may be worried about your risk for lung cancer. Lung cancer is often treatable and most easily treated when detected early. Guthrie now offers low-dose CT testing for lung cancer. Many patients with lung cancer do not have any symptoms when the cancer first starts. This is why screening is important.

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Screening is recommended for individuals who: • Are 55 to 77 years old • Do not have any signs or symptoms of lung cancer (diagnostic testing may be recommended for people with signs or symptoms of lung cancer) • Have not had lung cancer before Ithaca Watkins Glen • Currently smoke or quit less than 15 years ago • Are or were heavy smokers 86 Bath 14

Screenings are available at six convenient locations throughout the region.

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A visit with your provider is the first step. Ask whether lung cancer screening is right for you.

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Many insurances, including Medicare, cover this screening when certain criteria is met. Speak to your provider to determine if you qualify. If you have any signs or symptoms of lung cancer, be sure to tell your health care provider.

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Newsline City Of Ithaca

VOL.X X XVIII / NO. 48 / July 26, 2017 Serving 47,125 readers week ly

Grassroots Retrospective...... 8

Tompkins County

Staff impressions from a weekend in the mud..

A Bold Step Lifton Calls For Halt To Mining Under Lake Into A New Energy Future

House Of Merlot........................ 15 Inside the origins of Ithaca’s drag scene.

NE W S & OPINION

Newsline . ................................... 3-10, 14 Sports ................................................... 13

SPECIAL SEC T IONS

n less than 30 seconds, the city of Ithaca’s energy grid took its first bold step into a new energy future last week: the installation of the city’s first “smart meter,” a device meant to provide real-time metrics of an individual structure’s energy use. Starting with a safety touch warning everyone in attendance to drink water and rest in the shade if they were feeling faint in the July heat, officials from New York State Electric and Gas – joined by city sustainability coordinator Nick Goldsmith and county planning commissioner Ed Marx – gave a press conference in the yard of the Duncan family residence on Jay Street to install the first of more than 1,000 smart meters expected to be installed throughout the city this summer. This marks the first step of NYSEG’s testing of Ithaca as its guinea pig for its energy smart community concept; an energy optimized for better monitoring of energy consumption, better pricing and all-in-all improved energy accountability. “The automation of a system to enable customers to better utilize energy, to be more energy efficient and also to enable us as a utility to provide better services to consumers and better integrate new forms of technologies onto our system,” said Michael Eastman, Vice President of Corporate Development for NYSEG. Calling Ithaca “the best spot” within the NYSEG service area to test this technology, Eastman cited the attitude of consumers, legislators and the citizens of the area as paramount to demonstrating the viability of the system, saying people in Ithaca are “very focused on innovation, on energy sustainability and the environment.” “That’s what this project is all about,” he said. “Learning how to move forward, how new technologies can help us help continued on page 4

Family Matters ............................ 11-12 Real Estate . ....................................... 27

ART S & E NTE RTAINME NT

Stage ..................................................... 17 Books .................................................... 18 Stage...................................................... 19 Film ....................................................... 20 Dining . ................................................. 21 TimesTable .................................... 22-25 Classifieds..................................... 26-28

ong the subject of scrutiny by the local scient i f ic c om mu n it y, t he Cargill Salt Mine in Lansing has attracted the attention of Tompkins County’s voice on the New York State Assembly, Barbara Lifton, who has joined the group of those opposed to further salt mining under Cayuga Lake. In a press conference on the shores of Cayuga Lake on Thursday Lifton, joined by activist and founder of local environmental research firm Toxics Targeting Walter Hang, announced a proposal to call for a moratorium on any additional mining under Cayuga Lake while, in the meantime, urging Cargill to pursue mining under the stable ground of the land surrounding the lake. The announcement comes af ter data produced by Dr. Richard A. Young, an expert on sa lt mining at SU N Y Geneseo, was presented at a meeting in Albany on June

Lifton, confronted by a former mine surveyor for Cargill. (Photo: Nick Reynolds)

15 attended by Assemblyman Steve Englebright, Chair of the Assembly’s Committee on Environmental Conservation, and high-level Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) officials, outlining concerns that expanded salt mining under Cayuga Lake could pose potentially catastrophic risks to the lake in the event of a mine failure. Young, whose expertise includes extension study of a 1994 salt mine collapse in Livingston County, presented a new study drawing certain parallels between the conditions of the Retsof salt mine collapse and those present at the Cargill site, urging DEC officials to reconsider their approval of Cargill’s mining operations as it works to dig a new mine shaft for its workers. In a letter to DEC Commissioner Basil Seggos, Lifton – who at this point has yet to meet with Cargill officials or

T a k e ▶ Want to become a business owner? Alternatives Federal Credit Union, the Tompkins County Chamber of Commerce and the Small Business Development Center of New York are offering a two day course covering typical requirements and challenges of starting a business ranging from product and service development to business planning and financing. The courses will be held: August

members of government in the Town of Lansing – and Englebright call for the DEC to prohibit future mining activities under Cayuga Lake, stating the information created a “growing concern” about Cargill’s application to drill a new egress shaft for its workers to improve ventilation for its employees 45 minutes from the surface and, in theory, allow the 18,000 acre mine’s continued push up the length of the lake. Though the proposed shaft it sel f present s l it t le to no inherent risks, the continuation of mining under the lake has raised concerns among the mine’s opponents: according to Young’s research, the mine’s construction and the geologic anomalies of the mine present risks resembling those apparent in the Restof mine collapse. contin u ed on page 14

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15th 22nd from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. The cost is $150, and lunch will be provided (a vegetarian option is available.) To register, visit businesscents.org/training ▶ CUMEP’s Annual Summer Concert Is Thursday! The culmination of a really cool program at Southside Community Center, this is a nice thing you shouldn’t miss. Things kick off 5 p.m. on the Southside Playground.

▶ Politics For Teens Being held in conjunction with the Library’s Build a Better World Summer Reading Program, “Politics for Teens” will feature local politicians discussing how they got involved in politics, what drove them as teenagers and how participants can become civicallyengaged citizens. Open to ages 12-18, the free event happens Wednesday, August 2 at 2 p.m. in the library.

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INQUIRING

Energy

contin u ed from page 3

PHOTOGRAPHER By C a se y Mar tin

What was your favorite part of Grassroots?

“Campbell Brothers literally brought tears to my eyes.” —Johnno Potts

Election 2018

Ithaca Cyber Security Expert “Exploring” Run For Congress

T “ 7 a.m. kickball game – Double play on first. MVP!” —Alex Van Nostrand

“ Donna The Buffalo on Friday night. Band was tight and the sound was great!” —Bud Shaw

racy Mitrano is a New York state native, longtime academic, and an expert in cyber security – a skillset she believes warrants her to serve as New York’s 23rd congressional district representative in Congress. Growing up in Rochester, Mitrano relates deeply to her time work ing at her father’s downtown restaurant – a time she notes exposed her to all different walks of life from lowwage workers to white collar businessmen. She earned a bachelor’s degree in English and History from University of Rochester before earning a Ph.D. in American and Women’s History from SUNY Binghamton and later a Law Degree from Cornell Law. In that time she worked as a professor, administrator and consultant mainly in the information technology field. When it comes to politics, Mitrano believes her background in the halls of academia would

wed well with the halls of Congress and politics in general. “My interests are more in seeing the connections among and in between these things then thinking of them as separate careers,” Mitrano says. “And politics is the center around everything.” That passion was sparked between both fields of her interests while watching the 2016 presidential election unfold, especially in part the foreign hacking and involvement in the campaigns. Knowing she could lend her background in cyber security, Mitrano believes she is being beckoned to public service. “I asked myself if this were an opportunity where I could contribute something to the political realm that would be meaningful and perhaps reset and recalibrate the compass of the political culture that we’re in today,” Mitrano says. Entering a Democratic can-

City Of Ithaca

$50,000 grant from the U.S. C on ferenc e of Mayors i s a social-media ready concept at face value, one that’s hard for people not to fall in love with: someone in line pays for a meal and for the meal behind them, next person takes that meal, buys another one for the person behind them, and the cycle continues. Sometimes, it’s used for charity, a sample of which was done quite effectively at Center Ithaca’s Center Café over the winter: pay a little extra, and you could purchase a sticky note redeemable for a free meal: intended to be used by someone who might not be able to afford

Pay It Forward’s Wonky Roots

“Una Galera in the Dance Tent!” —Don Djrangus

S “Dakha Brakha on the Infield Stage! They were amazing! And I got face painted.” —Audrey Harpe

c ot t Mor r i s , t he m i nd beh i nd one of It hac a’s more eccentric startups, has been a little annoyed about the “Pay It Forward” boxes on the Commons. Or rather, the fact that whenever someone drops a dollar into one, they may be missing the point of them. Pay It Forward, a new program in Ithaca funded by a

didate field already with five official candidates, Mitrano says it’s her combination of working class roots and high education coupled with her ability to serve congress as an I.T. expert that sets her apart from the rest of the field. Mitra no did not indicate whether she would consider running as an independent in the primary saying she will know t he a nswer to t hat quest ion when she gets there. Showing her Cornell Law School degree, she adheres to the legal language and says she is currently “exploring candidacy,” meaning that she has not yet filed with the Federal Elections Commission, though she is strongly expecting to put her name in the hat. Should she file, she will be the first female to enter the democratic primary race which already is stuffed with five other candidates. – Va u g h n G o l d e n

it themselves. It’s a beautiful sentiment: a tangible means of charity that is not only camera ready, but warm and fuzzy to read about. “Pay It Forward is a creative and engaging way to involve the community in addressing one of our most fundamental and basic issues — providing for people in need,” said Gary Ferguson, Director of the Downtown Ithaca Alliance said in a statement last month. “It does not duplicate existing programs or services; it complements current services provided by nonprofits.” contin u ed on page 12

our customers, help ourselves in terms of improving reliability and the environment.” Where this is a first step for New York State, last week’s event was hardly a groundbreaking ceremony by any means: more than 65 million smart meters have been installed nationwide with one nearby mirror of NYSEG, Central Maine Power, taking the step toward smart metered communities several years ago. Yet for all they’ve caught on, the meters have their downsides: because the electric system is fully automated, some have concerns individual meters can be hacked, a tradeoff to consider because, as studies have shown, smart meters themselves do not save energy or money: it is largely up to the individual consumer to stay on top of the metrics produced by their meters. This is why public relations a nd being v isible is hig h ly important for the concept of a smart community to succeed. In the lead-up to the smart meter installations, Avangrid held a series of meetings in the community ahead of time and also have a website active for FAQs. By the end of the year, there will be an online portal where customers can link their homes and their accounts to not only track their usage, but receive customized tips tailored to their monitored energy habits. “That’s why it’s so important this be a collaborative effort with the community,” Juanita Washington, a spokeswoman for Avangrid said. “We put the community first with this, and that’s why these relationships are so important.” Locally, where the Tompkins County Energy Roadmap of 2015 calls for an 80 percent reduction in carbon emissions from the city and town over the coming decade, the smart meter technology is the first step in truly changing people’s energy consumption habits simply by making them more aware of how much they actually use. “We live in an age of data; the more the better,” Goldsmith said. “If I pull out my phone, I can track 27 metrics by the hour: the weather, my bank account, my number of friends on Facebook. Smart meters will allow us to track energy use in the same way. As a homeowner, I’m happy to be receiving a smart meter. I look forward to understanding my family’s energy use better on a more granular level.” –Nick Reynolds

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N e w s l i n e including the push for a third judge to decrease wait times for those awaiting trial.

Tompkins County

A Jail Solution? Fix The Justice System

ompkins County officials last week had their first opportunity to weigh-in on – and talk through – the findings of a recently completed analysis on the future of the county jail and whether or not an expansion of the facility can be averted. The meeting, nearly one full year after the jail was told it would lose an 18-bed variance to alleviate overcrowding concerns in the jail, marks a capstone moment in the county’s efforts to stay within state compliance standards for the jail’s population. After months of anticipation, it was determined that no expansion of the jail is necessary to meet these requirements, a conclusion CGR – the consulting firm charged with examining the issue – came to after several months of interviews (more than 150 people were spoken to, according to study lead Don Pryor), data crunching and numerous visits to the jail itself and with community organizations. At the county level, the jail study committee has convened for several months, meeting on a litany of topics related to reentry measures and other forms of alternatives to incarceration available in the community, a pathway CGR said could be the building blocks of the county’s programmatic success and help keep people out of jail that otherwise, would be better treated outside the jail walls. “We stuck it out w it h t he assumption that there are a wide array of wonderful programs here in Tompkins County that we think we can build even further on,” Pryor said. Ja il Popu l ation: A Nu mbers Ga me?

The Tompkins County Jail has been chronically overcrowded. Since 2000, the jail has never been below its 82-person classification capacity (the overall population cap set by the state). Over the past 17 years, the jail has exceeded its 18 bed variance five

out of the past 12 years, counting an average population ranging between 79 and 102 on average. This tended to stay steady until last August when the average census dropped below 80 (as opposed to 82, the official capacity of the jail) for 10 consecutive months. Various reasons were given for this: some attributed the presence of assigned counsel at off-hours of arraignment, more presumption of non-financial release, even additional attention to the issue of the jail’s population. However, given the short term aspects of this study, it’s difficult to explain the recent decline with pinpoint accuracy. Yet demographics show that even if none of CGR’s recommendations are implemented, the issue of the jail population might eventually work itself out. According to Cornell’s Program of Applied Demographics (who CGR has worked with in the past) it is estimated Tompkins County will experience a population decline of around 3,000 people by 2040, an interesting trend to come after a steady rise in the county’s population over the past two decades. While a second firm, Woods & Poole Economics, predicts a 10,000 person increase over the next 20 years, CGR sees their methods as somewhat unrealistic due to large swings in certain subgroups. Wit h a d irec t correlat ion between county population and jail population inherent in the system, Pryor said that a “do nothing” approach would result in a naturally lowered jail population. That’s not to say, he noted, there wouldn’t be any substantial benefits in doing something. The Recommendations

Despite an array of programs and services, much more can be done to reduce the population. The jail itself currently serves as the defacto detox program for a

number of substance abuse-addled inmates, many of those with substance abuse disorders often going unassessed and unreferred to treatment unless prompted by a judge. Many of the beds in the jail are occupied by inmates awaiting bail or pretrial release, with the average stay, at last count, at around 17 days.) To cut down on this issue, CGR said the county has the opportunity to save a number of beds through several fiscally viable strategies that could be implemented “over the next year or so,” saving up to 29 beds per night if done correctly. If these programs are put in place, CGR said the jail could average between 46 and 54 inmates on average by 2020, well below the existing 82 bed limit imposed by the state. T h e s e re c om m e nd at ion s include: • Expanded substance abuse assessments, of which only one per week happens. • Increasing the impact of pretrial release, which the county’s District Attorney office has advocated for on nonviolent felony charges: otherwise, the setting of bail is up to each individual judge. • Expanding the use of electronic monitoring. • Expanding the use of misdemeanor drug court. • Supporting the creation of a non-jail medical detox facility. (as early critics of the study have maintained, detox and drug treatment belong outside of the jail and, as one critic noted in public comment, involuntary detoxification seemed “wrong”) • Implementing reforms to the criminal justice system, including an increase of comfort in using ATIs, limiting the use of jails as punishment for drug court violations and bail reforms. In addition, there could be further reforms to probation protocols (including increased day reporting and an expanded service work alternative program), a greater focus on re-entry programs, diversionary tactics employed by law enforcement and an increased advocacy effort,

Ultimately, the spending on all of these would be far below the likely $30 million cost of expanding the facility. However, the jail itself could be improved. The county, Pryor said, should invest in a second nurse within the jail to cover the two days (and seven nights) the jail is underserved. Programs, such as Alcoholics Anonymous, should be given the space to operate, possibly by relocating the County Sheriff’s department located within the building in order to free up room to host those programs and, potentially, incorporate a detox facility within the jail. The structure itself, it should be noted, is in dilapidated condition and may one day need renovation, the time at which, Pryor said, could be committed to fixing the jail in a way that improves the flow of daily operations within the jail. How Possibl e Is A l l This?

Though the recommendations are expansive, Pryor said some of the financial commitments that would be required of these reforms could be reasonable, if not merely organizational. Nonprofits could be better coordinated. Training sessions can be held. A number of new staff would need to be hired, from an additional assistant district attorney to new staff both in the jail and in the mental health department, and a consultant to implement a number of quick proposals on a 12 to 18 month basis could also be a consideration. But a lot of the reform, legislator Martha Robertson noted, lies with the public educating themselves on some of the shortcomings within the justice system. This particularly centers on the small town issue: the knowledge and engagement of the general public, and how little authority the county has over how the rural justices – who require little in the way of qualifications – choose how to sentence people. “Find out when your municipal court meets. Take notes, ask questions,” Robertson said. “These people are usually elected. They are often elected without opposition. Anybody can be elected justice and serve.”

Ups&Downs ▶Algae On Monday, The NYS Department of Environmental Conservation reported suspicious blue-green algae blooms in Cayuga Lake. These blooms can occur in any calm body of water and may produce toxins that are harmful to people and animals and generally, smell rather foul. After it was revealed that the Cayuga Power Plant released some mercury into the lake last year (more on that on page six), it’s really kind of lame to discover there is even more unpleasant stuff affecting our already grodey lake. We just want to swim there one time in our lifetime, please.

Heard&Seen ▶ Work is starting on the Cascadilla Creekway which is an extremely exciting thing for everybody. The area has incredible potential and, though it kind of ruins this author’s shortcut to Aurora Street, it is nonetheless the beginning of a marked improvement to the quirky thoroughfare. ▶ Top stories on Ithaca. com this week are: 1) Cornell Wants To Close “Ezra’s Tunnel” (And Other City Notes) 2) GrassRoots steps up to stop sexual assault 3) Alumni Coaches Look to Bring Buzz Back to Lions’ Den 4) Bandwagon Brewery expands in Interlaken 5) Lifton calls for stop to mining under Cayuga Lake

If you care to respond to something in this column, or publish your own grievances or plaudits, write upsanddowns@ithacatimes. com, with a subject head “U&D.”

question OF THE WEEK

Would you support continued fossil fuel use at Cayuga’s Power Plant if any other option would kill Lansing’s tax base? Please respond at the Ithaca Times Web site www.ithacatimes.com. L ast Week ’s Q uestion : H ave you ever volunteered to work at G rassroots?

77.8 percent of respondents answered “No” and 22.2 percent answered “Yes.”

–Nick Reynolds

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OurOpinion

surrounded by reality

NYSEG Customers Deserve Answers Drinking Games O D Wa s ou r se rv ic e fe e pay i ng for job s or Su b si di z i ng A C h e a psk at e? n Monday night at the Space @ Greenstar, I attended a screening hosted by Fossil Free Tompkins and the Sierra Club of the new National Geographic documentary “From The Ashes,” a comprehensive look at the economics of the coal industry, its environmental impacts and, most importantly, the precarious construction of a coal-centric society that, for many communities around the country, is beginning to collapse, leaving behind no alternative, no jobs and seemingly, no hope. It was a powerful film (there will be a story on the evening posted later this week on Ithaca. com) but, what interested me in particular was the intersection of a national phenomena – the pollution of small communities and the gutting of their economies when the coal went away – that got me thinking about exactly why this film was being shown in Ithaca: that we ourselves, living in an area powered by coal, could potentially be getting conned ourselves. Two weeks ago, Fossil Free Tompkins and the Sierra Club held a teleconference outlining a number of findings they had obtained through information acquired through a Freedom Of Information Law request. In those documents, they unveiled the Cayuga Power Plant – coal powered and transitioning to natural gas – had on eight occasions, dumped unsafe levels of mercury into Cayuga Lake following a fire at the plant. Nobody was told. This happened four years after the plant, deemed to be unprofitable in 2012 by New York State itself, began to receive a ratepayer subsidy of $4 million to keep the plant open, a survival method implemented one year after the price of

natural gas surpassed coal in affordability for the first time ever. Fearing the closure of the plant, ratepayers were asked to foot the bill to keep the plant alive, as an alternative was worked out. Nationwide, coal began to fail, profit margins far to slim to operate a plant or a mine at any point that would make a company money. But, just months ago in their own press conference, Cayuga Power Plant – on its way to an eventual conversion to natural gas – declared it would continue to burn coal “as long as possible” at the nearly 60-year-old plant, begging the question: how long has this plant been profitable? It’s no secret the coal industry is dying. “War on coal” or not, automation has killed a majority of the United States’ coal jobs. Aging energy infrastructure has been proven to be cheaper – and cleaner – to replace with natural gas or even renewable energy. And investors are answering: divesting from coal and putting their money elsewhere. This is why, even after a Public Service Commission decision to shutter the Cayuga Power Plant last year, a multinational energy company decided to step up and purchase the plant with plans to turn it around later. Coal needed help, Lansing’s tax base needed help, and the ratepayers answered. But, according to activists, the funds they provided to “keep the plant alive” went toward overdue infrastructure improvements and the capital budget of a plant that was already profitable, essentially padding the plant’s bottom line and allowing the plant to maintain a level of profitability that otherwise contin u ed on page 7

By C h a r l ey G i t h l e r

rink a shot every time you hear the name ‘Mar-a-Lago’. Any time a Democrat says out loud that his or her party can take back the House of Representatives with Nancy Pelosi’s leadership, drink a shot. Then wake that person up. They’re talking in their sleep. Give them a shot, too. Every new person that is added to the list of those present at the June 2016 meeting with Donald Trump, Jr. in Trump Tower, drink a shot of Stolichnaya Vodka. If that person is named Anatoly, Vasily, Boris, Svetlana or Natasha, make it a double. Whenever you chuck le over Ann Coulter’s brouhaha with Delta Airlines, or over the fact that she f lies coach, drink one of those airplane bottles of the liquor of your choice. Any time the term ”nothing burger” is used without irony, drink a vial of truth serum. Same for “fake news”. Go on your favorite social media outlet. No, wait…don’t. Have a shot. Each time Republicans try and fail to replace Obamacare, split a bottle of twodollar wine with a 25-year-old still on his or her parents’ medical insurance. On every occasion Donald Trump acts presidential drink a chalice of uniI llu stration By Marshall Hopkin s

corn blood. Go somewhere where there are millennials. Say the words “crushing student loan debt” out loud. If one or more of them bursts into tears, drink a can of Pabst Blue Ribbon. When a new state passes a law banning discrimination in public accommodations based on gender identity, consume the mixed drink of your choice. Do this whenever you hear the news, no matter where you are. Drink a shot whenever a WSKG announcer pronounces ‘schedule’ like shhhedule’. Whenever Mike Pence is in the presence of a woman not his wife that makes him feel a “certain way”, order and finish a Sex on the Beach. If Kellyanne Conway dodges a question about the Wall, lick some salt off your hand, drink a shot of Tequila and bite a lime. Every time Melania smiles, drink a shot of Brinjevic. It will make the hair on the back of your neck go back down. Whenever the president panders to his base, drink a dipperful of moonshine. Every time the DEC or the EPA says there’s no more lead in the Ithaca Falls contin u ed on page 7

guestOpinion

The Commons Needs To Be Safer

irls are always told to never walk alone at night. This was advice that I followed everywhere. Except on the Ithaca Commons or downtown area. As a student here, we were taught and always assumed that the Commons and the adjacent Restaurant Row were safe spaces, and many nights I would find myself walking down them and never being too worried that anything would happen to me; the center of downtown Ithaca was the one place where walking alone was alright. This past Friday I was making my way to Luna Inspired Street Foods on Aurora street. In the intersection between Simeons and Viva Taqueria a tall man began to follow me and then walk next to me. “What’s your name? Where are you going?” he asked. I didn’t respond. “Do you not talk? You’re too beautiful not to talk,” he said. I looked down at my phone hoping that ignoring this strange man would make him go away. It didn’t. I was ten steps away from Luna’s, walking right infant of Red’s Place when this man puts his arm around my shoulder and his hand on my arm and behind

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trying to turn me in the opposite direction of where I was going with some force. “Do you want to f––k me? Because you’re going to.” My heart began to race in the adrenaline of fear this five-foot-one body managed to push away someone about twice her size. He wasn’t expecting it, which made it easy to push him away. He tripped into some tables by Red’s Place, and I proceeded to power walk to my destination, too shaken to eat and too confused about what had just happened. He had also seemed to run away. There were people around: there were people outside of Luna’s, movement around Mahogany Grill, those who wanted to get home for the night. No one thought anything of a woman pushing away someone twice her size was of importance; no one thought it could mean an assault. No one did anything, but there was no reason for me to expect them to do so either. I was in shock that it did not register to the people around me what had just happened and I began to wonder how many times situations like these happen

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Gorge, chug a flagon of Mead. Quick ly drin k a shot right now because you just remembered that Kim Jong-un and Donald Trump are playing chicken with our lives. Next time a member of the president’s cabinet contradicts him, drain a small bottle of Wolfsbane. If none is available, any magic potion that includes f luxweed, knotgrass and ground lacewing flies will do. Whenever somebody denies that leaving the Paris Climate Accord was a terrible idea, throw a shot at them. Then drink one yourself.

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in the commons and downtown in plain sight. We’re not trained to look for them because of the assumption that for some reason we feel safer in the Downtown area. For some reason, I didn’t want to take it to the police officers either. A friend of mine had had a similar experience the week before, and when she went to report it and get a someone to walk her home, she got judging looks and was assumed to be drunk — she wasn’t, she was just scared. There was no point in me going to the authorities because they wouldn’t help either. Would they assume that I was drunk and overreacting as well? Ithaca prides itself as a safe community, and its downtown area as a safe space but there are obvious holes in how to make the space safe. There is only one bar in Ithaca that has its employees trained in how to prevent sexual assault,

Whenever Jared Kushner ‘remembers’ another contact he’s had with the Russians, start drinking for the day. Every time Tom Reed raises another million dollars, gargle with and swallow a capful of anti-freeze. Whenever a Northside employee says “back for more?” take a sip of ‘coffee’ from your travel mug and wink. Steady yourself with one of the shopping-cart ‘walkers’ and stock up. We’re only six months in.

Charley Githler is a columnist for the Ithaca Times. His column, Ithaca Notes, appears biweekly. The Watershed. If more establishments on the Commons would be able to see those signs, maybe someone would have helped me instead, maybe it would have registered. It also falls on more and more people noticing that 15 percent of sexual assaults happen in a public or an open space and every 98 seconds someone in the United States is sexually assaulted. I was able to pull away, somehow. But there should not have been the need for me to do so in the first place. There needs to be more education around seeing signs, around being aware of our surroundings to keep other women safe. As a woman, I am on high alert constantly, and I feel that the one space where I could be safe in my walks has been taken away from me.

Isabella Grullon-Paz is an intern for the Ithaca Times and a student in the Roy H. Park School Of Communications at Ithaca College.

GuestOpinion

Natural Gas Ban Will Hurt Lansing

By G e orge P h i l l i ps , R ec l a i m New Yor k

hat are Tompkins County officials thinking with their push to ban new homes in Lansing from using natural gas? The County’s Energy and Economic Development Task Force (EEDTF) have called on New York State’s Public Service Commission (PSC) to extend a moratorium on natural gas going to these new homes - and they made the recommendation without consulting anyone from Lansing. Lansing leaders in both the town and village want to build new homes that would lead to new families, homeowners, and businesses in the community. These homes would need to be powered by the current natural gas system. These officials were duly elected by the people of their community to make decisions on issues such as energy supply, where locals should have as much control as possible. They have strongly spoken out in favor of lifting the ban on natural gas going to new homes. The County’s move to ignore these opinions

betrays an attitude that they know better, and are above hearing the petty concerns of Lansing residents. This is dangerous. All New Yorkers should be empowered to reclaim ownership of their government at every level. That means not letting officials and bureaucrats from the County, on up to Albany, ignore the will of locals to push a costly, top-down energy agenda. It is precisely this approach from government, one that puts political interests first, and discounts the practical impact of policies on people, that is driving an affordability crisis in Tompkins. Business are struggling in the second-worst state business climate, and families are stretched paying for Albany’s agenda. A Reclaim New York Affordability Crisis Report shows that a couple with two children making $92,846 in Ithaca, double the median income, pays a whopping 34 percent of their earnings towards property, income, sales and excise taxes. After paying basic

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would have cut into its own budget. Whether the activist narrative is true or not is hard to tell. The industry of energy is a secretive one, and their expenses – as private industries – subject to little oversight. While the plant is no longer receiving a subsidy from NYSEG ratepayers, $133 million in ratepayer dollars have gone to offset a countyimposed $117 million devaluation of the plant since its peak value in 2007. And that’s just the loss of the plant’s value: because of an annual decrease in what the plant is worth, its annual tax payments have actually been decreasing every year. This is important to note, especially considering 66 percent of the taxes it pays goes directly to the Lansing School District. The politics of power, as From The Ashes showed, are complicated. Coal jobs support whole communities, whole school districts. Companies only back industries if they are profitable – in the film, plants shuttered if they were held to higher standards, or asked to cut into their profit margins. But these recent revelations are troubling, and if the plant is, in fact, “profitable,” this means the plant has been offsetting its own tax obligations with ratepayer money administered through NYSEG. Of course, we can’t say this definitively. If anything, we know nothing. But it’s our money, after all: we deserve answers. The plant – and NYSEG – should oblige.

Gillibrand, Reed Announce BiPartisan Effort to Make Finger Lakes a National Heritage Area U.S. Senator Kristen Gillibrand and Congressman Tom Reed visited Clute Memorial Park in Watkins Glen this afternoon to announce a bi-partisan bill that will begin efforts to make the Finger Lakes region designated as a National Heritage Area. Passing of this bi-partisan legislation will mean the Finger Lakes would undergo a Feasibility Study Process to determine if the region meets the necessary standards to become a National Heritage Area. National Heritage Areas are designated by Congress as areas where natural, cultural, and historic resources come together to form a cohesive, nationally important landscape. County opt- out option for ridehailing services considered

“premature” Legislator Peter Stein advanced a proposed opt-out resolution to the committee, one that he stressed was very important to him, which would have the Legislature exercise the County’s option to opt out, and also appoint a committee of “knowledgeable and respected individuals” to conduct a full examination of the issue and present its findings and recommendations to the Legislature. Mr. Stein said he’s especially concerned by a possible loss of local jobs and what he maintains could be in increase, rather than decrease, in greenhouse gas emissions from the presence of such services.

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expenses, this couple would only have $3,866 left, just 4 percent of their income. The median property tax figure for Tompkins County is an astounding $4,189. That is $1,431 more than neighboring Tioga County. It has been estimated that 15,000 people live outside Tompkins County but commute into the county to work every day to avoid these high taxes. Building new homes in Lansing would help broaden the tax base for residents to help alleviate this property tax burden and spur economic development. This is why Lansing officials are right to protect access to the affordable, clean, reliable energy in natural gas that the community needs to thrive. Only recently has gas come under fire from so-called environmentalist interests. It’s no wonder natural gas is the Northeast’s top source of energy. It is already being utilized by many Lansing residents and there is no good reason that gas pipelines should not be expanded to reach new homes and customers. Unlike the solar and wind initiatives being pushed by the Cuomo Administration and Tompkins County leaders, it doesn’t not have to be heavily subsidized by taxpayers to survive. Albany’s political agenda that pushes narrow green energy initiatives should not override what is best for Lansing. The Public Service Commission should lift the moratorium on natural gas for new customers. Tompkins County leaders should change course, and make a greater effort to listen to and respect the rights of local leaders on energy and all issues.

According to Ithaca Mayor Svante Myrick, “the local taxi company” (he didn’t specify which one) is lobbying the county legislature to outlaw ride sharing apps like Lyft, writing in a Facebook post: “I believe that the competition from Lyft is overdue – and will reduce drunk driving, free up parking spaces, and improve mobility.” The proposed resolution failed to win committee support at this point Chair Michael Lane said he believes the resolution at this point is premature, and that the committee needs to study the issue and continue discussion over the next year.

George Phillips is the Southern Tier Regional Director for Reclaim New York, a non-partisan, non-profit organization that empowers New Yorkers, through education and civic engagement, to reclaim ownership of their government.

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Ithaca Times staffers share their impressions of the 2017 festival.

t’s early Friday afternoon and, in line ahead of me, a young couple places a case of beer on the counter, drawing a smile from the young cashier at the Jacksonville

Valero station. “I can guess where you guys are headed,” he said, checking their identification. “I’m still recovering from last night myself.” Grassroots, the annual bash that shuts the city down and draws all the freaks, families and revelers alike to the Trumansburg Fairgrounds each summer, has a well-deserved reputation as the region’s biggest party: four days of music, food, marathon drinking sessions and a reunion of like-minded folks who, above all, are looking for refuge from the routine. Yet for its superficial value, there are 8

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many different ways to interpret it: while the cowboy hat-wearing twenty-something swilling wine straight from the bottle in the crowd might be indicative of the freefor-all that is inherent at any festival, you notice a certain chill vibe about the festival, a facilitated air that belies the crowd’s raucous nature: there’s something at work here, something built into the festival’s structure that has perpetuated itself nearly three decades. “For me, what it boils down to is community,” said Axel Potts, a volunteer on the stage crew and a lifelong attendee of the festival. “I’ve seen this happening,

people putting energy into it, and I see the good that comes out of it: it’s not just a money thing, it’s about the vibe. In the world we live in, it’s hard to find a place that’s propagating what we have here. I’m trying to build good in the world, just where I’m at.” There’s a real sense of ownership of those in attendance, a community feel to this spectacular tent city that found its muse in the essence of the old time fiddle festivals of the ‘70s. This is the DNA that maintains the good graces of the 10,000 or so fans who come into the village for 26 –Augus t

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the event every year, its success resting squarely on the assumption that approximately 15 percent of those coming through the gate will volunteer to alleviate some of the restraints of the nonprofit festival’s $1.3 million (on average, according to several 990 forms available through Guidestar) take each year. But in recent years, volunteerism has begun to slip a bit. With one week to go until the festival this year, organizers were 500 volunteers short of the 1,500 or so they typically need to function without the weight of corporate sponsorship to hold them down. “We can never have enough,” said Nana Monaco, the festival’s assistant director and volunteer coordinator in an interview the week before the festival. To solve the problem of people skipping their 12 hour work obligations for a free weekend pass to the festival, this year organizers charged a $150 deposit – the full cost of admission – for anyone who signed up for work duty at the festival, ensuring if someone skips on their shift the festival gets their money, a measure to avoid losses from unreliable folk looking to play the goodwill of the Grassroots operating structure. These changes might make one think, on early judgement, that the origins of the festival’s community feel might be at threat: at nearly 30 years in, has the newest generation arriving into the festival community lost the virtue that made the festival great? Tristan Knox, an attendee since the age of ten and coordinator of the festival’s trash operations (the least popular volunteer gig at the whole festival, according to Monaco) doesn’t really have an answer for why volunteerism is stagnant: for a good decade working the festival, Knox knew what to expect, always working with the same crew of people. But about five years ago, people stopped returning, for whatever reason. “We got our crews filled this year,” said Knox. “but we don’t see as many of the same faces as we used to.” But maybe there is no good explanation for the lack of bodies working the shifts. For the shortage of volunteers, it’s actually not hard to find new ones: many of them paying attendees for years who, for some reason or another, decided this was the year to step up. Working alongside Knox was fellow trash volunteer Dancin “Bear” Feldman, who after numerous

festivals attended, felt it was time to “give back.” Mickie Quinn, a camper of more than 20 years and one of the area’s most enigmatic promoters, decided after years of partying to lend her expertise to running the back end of the grandstand, her first time as a volunteer stage manager in a role that oftentimes, is paid hourly. On the stage crew you had Chris Everson, a longtime attendee who, after recently moving to the area, decided it would be the optimal way to make friends. “As a new guy in town, I just want to contribute to something,” Everson said. For all the concern about the decline in volunteerism, maybe there is some sort of alarmism involved. Several generations deep now, the festival has undergone numerous cycles of folks coming and going. The ouroboros of the lakes molts its skin every year: as one generation leaves, a new one enters and another, matures. While it is still a party and will likely maintain that label in perpetuity, people who’ve attended for years recognize that to maintain something special, it requires stewardship and maintained, applied effort. “It’s our city of freaks that’s only here for four days out of the year,” said Josh Dolan, a longtime member of the stage crew. And to be true, it’s a weird scene at times: Donna The Buffalo’s Jeb Puryear meandering through a rave about peace, love and hired hypemen at their Saturday night infield show, grown men in facepaint and fairy wings wandering with blank stares through the grounds, people peddling about on standing tricycles, the occasional stranger calling you into their tent offering friendship and, if you’re lucky, a lukewarm can of Miller High Life. But sometimes, it takes a couple of rounds to really “get it:” a home for the unique, quirky and worldly that has somehow, managed to stay largely the same as it’s grown. “It’s turbulent at times, especially late at night,” Dolan said. “But there are so many people here to make this festival happen that are watching out.” “A lot of people have been here a long time,” adds Potts. “They care about what’s happening… and they party while they’re doing it.” “Not on shift,” Dolan is quick to add, cracking his first beer at the end of his Friday stint on the infield. “Okay, some do and some don’t,” Potts laughs. “I can’t speak for everyone.” •

Mental Health By C hr i s tie Cit rang l o

his was my first GrassRoots. I ran around my apartment on GrassRoots eve packing a bag — water, sunscreen, bandages, more water. I’ve been to conferences and conventions, but with GrassRoots’ legacy, I went to bed expecting sensory overload and huge crowds. And I was mostly correct, except I severely underestimated the amount of children, mud and children covered in mud. I turned my head and I saw guitarists jamming out with fiddlers in the same line of sight as a woman on stilts in a fairy costume. I didn’t expect so much in so little space, especially considering I walked the entirety of Trumansburg Fairgrounds in about a half hour. I expected to be uncomfortable, and I expected to function with loud music and murmuring voices in the suffocating heat. I accepted this before I left in the morning, and I reminded myself this throughout the day. A strenuous day on my mental health and inevitable anxious feelings came in the package of

Beyond Music By Jamie Sw inne r ton

can’t imagine why anyone would pay for a music festival that only offered music. A music festival, to be worth the hassle, hype and money must offer so much more than music. Thankfully, for the thousands that traveled to Trumansburg to partake in the Grassroots music festival they were pulled into an entire experience that included food and drink, art, science, community, and mud. First, it wouldn’t be a music festival without an abundance of liquid courage. One of the many gifts of living in the Finger Lakes region is the accessibility to local wine, beer, and cider. Hold an event around here and

attending a music festival. The Healing Arts section focused its efforts on stress relief, easing my anxieties. They held morning yoga sessions, workshops on self-care, stress ball arts and crafts, massage session and a safe space for women among other tents and activities. Forty million adults in the U.S. are affected by anxiety disorders — which rounds to about 18 percent of us — and about 9 percent have depressive disorders, according to the National Institute of Mental Health. These disorders do not go away at a certain age — the age group affected most by anxiety is between ages 45-59 — nor do they exclude children. Since these disorders can affect anyone of any age, the dialogue should be continuous — especially at the most unlikely of places to talk about it. In the midst of the chaos, I remembered to care for my mental health specifically in Ithaca Red Tent’s red tent. A small, red sanctuary for self-identified women and non-binary individuals sat around the corner of the Healing Arts section. When I sat down and rested my back against one of the pillows, I

began to realize how overwhelmed I was. I waded through mud all morning. I ran into old friends and acquaintances. I danced to Latinx music and jazz. I rode the trolley through the grounds and gave random children high-fives when they asked. I sweated so much I accepted that I would never to feel cold again. I needed some way to rejuvenate, even if I hadn’t realized it. Myself and the two friends I came to the festival with spent more time than we anticipated in the Red Tent. Strings of pearls draped around the skeleton of the tent, along with holiday lights and red tapestries that breathed with the wind. Squishy yoga mats and pillows were scattered about, making it easy to find a comfortable spot to rest. The most healing came from the safety of feeling comfor table. The Red Tent was a space designed for women and nonbinary folk to rehy-

drate and chat over water poured into mugs. They can read books about rebellious women in history while preparing a clay mask, burn sage, heal joints with natural remedies, refresh with body mist and hair brushes — in the middle of a music festival. In the middle of a space where there are no other designated spots to unwind and be unapologetically female or non-binary outside of Healing Arts. After we left the tent, my anxieties calmed and my feet didn’t feel as sore. I continued to learn more about depression and anxiety through the tents at Healing Arts, and I was sure not to leave without making a stress ball: a party balloon filled with uncooked rice.

you’re almost g ua ra nteed a taste of what the finger lakes have to of fer when it comes to 21 plus libations. This year, Grassroots was even gifted their own brew f rom It hac a Beer Company which was on tap at the festival. Roped off areas kept the drinking safe and legal and offered festival goers looking for a relatively quiet spot (I mean, it’s still a music festival) in which to sit and drink their chosen adult beverage. Second, there was no shortage of things to do if you weren’t feeling the music. A tractor pulling a wooden trolley traveled around the fairgrounds, allowing riders to jump on and off as they pleased. Or, for attendees looking for a quiet place to sit and drink some water the festival was littered with small areas designated as “living rooms” with comfy (and hopefully durable) couches and chairs, to sit with your current friends or possibly meet new ones. For the little ones, an entire tent full of kid-friendly arts and crafts sat in the middle of the action. The Art Barn, situated closer to the Main Entrance, featured doz-

ens of beautiful pieces by local artists. I chose to embrace the musical nature of the event and bang out a drum solo on a hanging log, an interactive piece of art in the barn that I’m certain was a hit (pun intended) with both kids and adults who have yet to forget their childhood. Trumansburg’s own female carpentry school, Hammerstone, brought along a tiny home they had build themselves to show off to the community and possibly find a buyer for, complete with a bedroom, bathroom, frontroom, and kitchenette space, all in a neat little package that can be towed behind a truck. All of these entertainments combined (along with the merch barn, Physics Bus, mental health area, food trucks and booths, compost education tent, and more) were enough to keep anyone entertained without even mentioning music. But let’s be realistic, these aren’t really why people come to Grassroots. Finally, although this piece is about the elements of Grassroots beyond the music let me assure you that I did also enjoy the music, and I found something in the performances that can only happen when you see live music. While taking pictures of Ithaca band Stone Cold Miracle Friday morning I remembered why people pay so much money to see live music. It’s not for the music alone, it’s for the opportunity to find something beyond it.

LaTrece Stevenson, the vocal powerhouse for Stone Cold Miracle, is not a shy performer. Between songs she would compliment the outfits of her audience members, talk about her love of hugs and flowers, share how grateful she was for a beautiful day, then immediately remind her audience to stay hydrated, and spread a message of love that she so clearly exudes from her very soul. While performing their final song, a commentary on police brutality, Stevenson began to cry. I know because I was ankle deep in the mud in front of the stage, trying to capture an experience you can’t get even on vinyl. Stevenson pulled her audience into her performance, but she threw herself into too. When you go to see a live performance there’s an element of humanity that goes beyond the music. A dream of being invited backstage by a performer you admire. Maybe just making eye contact with someone as enthusiastic about the sound as you are. Handing a flower to the lead singer and getting a special shout-out. They’re all worthy moments the are only distantly related to music. It’s that search for such moments, even the barest possibility of connection to something so raw, that make a music festival an experience. •

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I turned the corner and left the shady nook of Hea ling A r t s . I s lo g ge d through the mud and embraced GrassRoots — anxieties and all.•

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A Taste Of Home By Isabe l l a Gr ul l on-Pa z

okoomba, a band from Zimbabwe, had just finished their set and while I was catching my breath in the muggy heat after dancing to their infectious beats, I caught myself thinking that I had just heard a band from Victoria Falls in Upstate New York. Mokoomba had just made a crowd of predominantly white people move to beats they didn’t understand. I was confused about how a music festival in Trumansburg, New York, whose primary demographic was white people, had a band from Zimbabwe playing, but I didn’t overthink it. If I did, things would get too political, and I wouldn’t enjoy myself. I had been uncomfortable walking the grounds all day, seeing various forms of cultural appropriation and closing myself off to the possibility that it might actually be appreciation -- it’s been a complicated six month for a Latina not to be skeptical of whiteness. I

was listening to good music, but nothing that made me feel like I could move the way my feet are used to moving. It felt like navigating my every day, assimilate just enough to smudge, not blend into the crowd. Mokoomba’s set made me feel more at ease as if I didn’t need to tone down my hips or my quick feet. If the was PoC music, there had to be more people like me, or who at least were

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having similar thoughts. Between breaths and sips of water, I see a man come on stage with a shirt that read Yo no creo en Fronteras; I don’t believe in borders. I just thought to myself, ¿será qué si es mi gente? He and a few others began setting up the stage and doing their soundcheck, flamenco like tunes and voices that reminded me of

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serenatas fill the speakers. I take a look at the lineup, La Cafeteras were up next. As they tuned their jarras and requintos and checked their microphones my heart palpitated with an excitement I only know when I land in Cali, Colombia to visit my mom or Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic to visit my dad; I feeling I get when about to get home. They began their set, introducing themselves as a Chicano group from Los Angeles. You could tell all of them had such distinct musical styles and stories that all harmonized into Afro-Mexican beats, beats that were the foundation for their cumbia, ranchera, and durangansese. My anticipation grew when the lead singer — the love child of an unapologetic pin-up girl and Frida Kahlo — started zapateando, and the band began singing about walls, immigration, feminism and the struggle for the barriers of the American dream. Their message through the set was that dance the way to bring people together; it was the way to pray and to celebrate and also a way to protest and resist. “If we can’t dance with one another, how do we expect to bring a community together, a city together with a nation together,” said Hector Paul Flores in the middle the set. And he was right. As I looked around, specks of color appeared throughout the crowd, meshed into the masses of white who kept up with the music, felt it, but didn’t seem quite to understand it. We are all comfortable around each other. It felt like my space, a safe, welcoming space. I saw hands raised in fists in solidarity with the music, I didn’t notice mine was up until my shoulders got tired. I saw those who got lost in a music that was new to them. You could tell they wanted to get carried away but the same music that helped the entire Latin American continent lift itself for years. Las Cafeteras sang to the Iroquois, to the Mohawks, to those who were displaced. They sang to all those who to all those who had to migrate because poverty and war and neocolonialism took their countries away from them. They sang to presidents all over the world about the whitewashing of history not only in the United States but everywhere. They sang to people like me, who are still figuring out their space in a country that both welcomes and pushes us away. Most latin music is a mix of songs of the slave trade, indigenous traditions, and European influence. Seeing that same scene played out before my eyes as we all learned how to dance together made me feel genuinely at home for the first time in a long time — probably since November 8.

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Family

MATTERS

An Expanded Mission Inside a newer, larger Waldorf School By Jaime Cone

here can a kid learn how to harvest veg- ences. etables and knit a scarf as well as speak A summer program is currently being held at the Spanish and study all the traditional school, so a fence was put up to ensure the students’ safety, subjects? The Ithaca Waldorf School, and a chute was installed to get the students from the which incorporates a diverse curricu- building to the play yard safely. lum into the everyday lives of its students and is undergo“The kids are mesmerized by the variety of trucks,” ing an expansion this year to accommodate its growing Butler said. “It’s thrilling to watch the building go up in student population. front of their eyes, in a safe way.” The school grew out of the Waldorf School of the Finger The entire addition costs about $350,000. The school’s Lakes, which closed in 1999, and active parent groups. goal is to raise $200,000 through donations, and already In 2004 the school purchased 100 acres just south $150,000 has been raised. “We have been really grateful of Ithaca College on Nelson Road. Soon afterward, the for, and astounded by, the generosity of our community,” Ithaca Waldorf School was established and housed in a Butler said. rental property while plans to conThe school borrowed the remainstruct a building on the school’s land ing $150,000. Butler said the addicommenced. tion should be complete by this “The farm program The Ithaca Waldorf School was really sets us apart, and November at the latest. formally accredited by the AssoThe school is expanding its staff we are grateful to the ciation of Waldorf Schools of North as well. Lori Freer and William Youth Farm Project America in 2008 as a Developing Taylor were both recently added to Waldorf School, and five years ago the faculty. That brings the teacher for providing this the school began construction on count up to four grade teachers, educational element to the land. five speciality teachers, three early our school.” The school teaches children ages 3 eduction teachers, and four assistant to 6 in its early childhood classes and teachers. grade levels one through six, with the In addition to traditional subintention of having seventh and eighth grade as well in the jects, at Waldorf students take classes such as Spanish, coming years. cello, and handiwork. Emily Butler, Ithaca Waldorf School director of school “All the children learn to knit and crochet,” said Butadministration, said the school currently has close to 90 ler. “It’s a wonderful way to support math by strengthenchildren, compared to 60 at the end of the 2015 school ing their calculation skills. They’re keeping track of the year. total number of stitches while increasing and decreasing To make room for the growing class size, the school is as part of the complex patterns. In older grades the chilcurrently building a 3,000 square foot addition onto the dren embroider symmetric designs on tunics and handexisting 6,000 square foot building. work bags.” The largest space will be a 1,500 square foot commuAll students from grades one through six (and evennity room. The school is also adding one 570 square foot tually through eighth grade) work on the school’s farm classroom and a small meeting room ideal for confer- every week as well. Th e

Above: Emily Butler, Ithaca Waldorf School director of school administration (Photo: Casey Martin)

“We’re surrounded by 80 acres of organic farmland. The early education students bring in compost for the chickens,” Butler said. “The farm program really sets us apart, and we are grateful to the Youth Farm Project for providing this educational element to our school.” The children don’t just work on the farm during the harvest season but learn about farming tools and how to take care of them all year round. They use the land for other actives; in February, for example, the students help tap maple trees. “It’s an important time in the world to make a meaningful connection with our food, and the land, and take responsibility for tending the land around us,” Butler said. “We’re lucky to have that here.” One of the central tenets of the Waldorf School is consciously developing relationships. To that end, many of the teachers teach more than one grade, moving up with the students in their class rather than passing them on to a new teacher the next year. “People are realizing that children need that continuity with the adults in their lives,” said Butler. Ithaca Waldorf School will be holding an open house Aug. 18 at 1 p.m. The event is open to the public. Tours are available on the first and third Thursdays of the month from 8:30 a.m. to 9:30 a.m. To find out more about the school, visit ithacawaldorf. com.

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eeping kids busy in the summer is always challenge. Eight hours school days and extracurriculars aren’t around to entertain and educate kids for the three months of summer and most of the time children would like to spend their time, not doing anything educational. The Tompkins County Public Library, and its summer reading program, want to change that. The summer reading program is held at libraries all across the Finger Lakes and was designed to keep kids engaged with books and educational activities through the summer. “We think that the number one thing to keep kids reading is to make it fun and make it interesting,” Sarah O’Shea, Youth Services Department head at TCPL said. It is important to keep kids reading in the summer to avoid the summer slide. The summer slide is when kids stop reading and not only their reading level drops, making harder to keep up with next grade level material in the fall, but also their all around competencies in academics might suffer as well. This summer, the Finger Lakes Library System’s theme for summer reading is Building a Better World, so a lot of the programs across all the libraries involved have to do with recycling, learning how to take care of the environment and also being more involved in the community. The Tompkins County Public Library hosts summer reading programs for people of all ages: from pre-readers — babies who are read to when they are still in the womb — to programs and book clubs for adults but the library’s main program if for kids ranging from kindergarten through the fifth grade. What the program mainly consists of is that kids keep track of the minutes that they’ve been reading and then bringing in the log to the library to get a free book and be entered in a raffle to win gift certificates for local businesses. “There is no specific reading program that we offer and no specific book or type of book that the kids have to read,” O’Shea said. “I am a big proponent of letting kids read what they want and enjoy, especially in the summer.” She explained that letting kids have the freedom to pick their own

books would make them more engaged and interested in reading on their own. The Tompkins County Public Library also hosts a variety of programs related to summer reading and having parents engage with their kids when it comes to books and literacy skills. There are traditional story time hours for toddlers and babies; there is family storytime at the library as well as story time in Dewitt Park on Tuesdays. “We also have a program called Sit, Stay, Read, where children can practice their reading skills by reading to a dog, they make a great non-judgmental partner if they make mistakes or are self-conscious about reading aloud,” O’Shea said. The library has also recently started a Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) book club for the kids that meets once a month. Kids get a free copy of a book that has to, in a way, do with STEM. When they meet, they have a brief discussion about what they read and then proceed to do an activity that related to what they learned in the past month. “I believe that one time the kids were able to simulate cleaning oil spills,” O’Shea said. “The kids are super enthusiastic about that program.” Interactive programs like these are one of the reasons the summer reading program saw a 19 percent increase in participation from 2015 to 2016, explained Amanda Schiavulli, Member Services Librarian at the Finger Lakes Library System. Schiavulli also said that the increase might be because of social media. “I always try to keep our Facebook page up-to-date about summer reading programs in all the libraries across five counties,” O’Shea said. “Our community needs to be informed of the programs so that they can take advantage of the great learning opportunities the libraries provide.” O’Shea emphasized that although the summer reading program is a great way to keep kids engaged, it is also important for parents to be involved at home to keep their kids reading. “It’s about keeping it interesting and not making it a chore for the kids: have books around the house, be seen reading and enjoying a book, read to your kids even if they are already older,” O’Shea said.

sports

The Guys Who Don’t Flinch By Ste ve L aw re nc e

ny good referee or umpire will tell you that if they are “invisible.” So to speak, they are doing their job. Their job is just to be a part of the field of play, and if a ref or an ump gets hit with a ball or run over by a player, the show must go on. Sean Norman – who works at t he Greater Ithaca Activities Center – has been a baseball and softball umpire since he was 14 years-old, and the 1993 Newfield grad says, “I was always one of those guys who studied the rule book, so that’s definitely an advantage.” He added, “As a player, I was a catcher, so I was used to being behind the plate. I learned to trust my equipment, and it helps that I can anticipate what pitch is likely coming, and that lends itself well to umpiring.” In fact, Sean said, “I can sometimes watch a new

ump, and when I see him flinch it tells me that he was not a catcher.” Sean is one of the umpires representing the Fingerlakes Board of Softball Officials, which is a part of the New York State Softball Organization (NYSSO). Given he is a parent to 3 year-old Annabelle, he doesn’t take every assignment that comes his way, but he will be behind the plate for between thirty and fifty games per year. He works high school games, adult slow pitch leagues and travel softball tournaments from Syracuse to Binghamton to Elmira, and he has come to realize over the past 29 years that each of those assignments can have its own particular set of challenges. When umpiring high school or travel team games, for example, any conflicts that arise are likely to be instigated by coaches or parents. “Slow pitch,” Sean says, “is an

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interesting monster.” I asked why, and he said, “Well, they are adults, and since they are the ones paying the umpires, they feel they can have those adult-to-adult interactions, so you have that dynamic.” Another part of that dynamic, Sean offered, “is the fact that many of them think they know the rules.” When they bring that into play, they face a worthy opponent. “I am a part of several Facebook groups for umpires,” Norman stated, “and we spend a lot of time studying and interpreting the rules.” He laughed and added, “It can make it difficult for a manager to argue their case when I tell them what page that particular rule is on.” Travel teams can present their own challenges as well, and Sean remembers the years he spent working games in Ohio. Some of the travel teams took it very seriously,” he said, “to the point of having their own team RV. There were a few times when I thought the behavior of some of the parents was detrimental to the kids, so I cleared the stands more than once.” Sporting a semi-sarcastic grin, he added, “I pointed out that I was just doing what their behavior deemed necessary.” While he does value the extra income,

Sean Norman, behind the plate. (Photo: Provided)

Sean says he really does it “for the love of the game.” He said, “I spend about half the money on new equipment, and I asked him about the equipment bag I recently saw him hoisting out of his car. “That bag takes up about half my back seat,” Sean said. “I have a regular mask and a hockey-style mask, a traditional chest protector and a newer, Spandex ‘compressionstyle’ chest protector, a pair of hockey shin guards, several pairs of shoes, about twenty indicators, seven ball bags, eight or nine hats, two protective cups, eight shirts, two jackets and four pairs of pants.” I asked Sean how much longer he will do this, and he said, “We have one ump who is 75 years old. I’ll do it as long as I can, but when Annabelle gets older, I might switch to coaching.” That love for his daughter has also made it easier for Sean to be more invisible these days, given he has lost over 100 pounds over the past two years. “It’s so much easier to get into position,” he said, “and I was amazed that I actually outran a girl to third base!”

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“If the Cargill mine suffered a similar disaster, the potential catastrophic effects on Cayuga Lake would be unprecedented and irreversible,” Lifton said. Citing the potential threat of such a moratorium to the jobs of 200 people, Lifton suggested as an alternative to focus on mining under the adjoining dry land instead, an arduous process that would involve negotiations with multiple landowners for the rights to the minerals thousands of feet below. The press conference itself rowdy at times, Lifton and Hang were confronted by a number of supporters for the mine who casted doubts on the legitimacy of activist’s concerns. David Cornelius, a former surveyor in the Cargill Salt Mine, called Hang an “alarmist,” with several supporters from the mine bringing up inconsistencies or perceived inaccuracies in the portrayal of the danger present in min-

ing under the lake including, according to one person in attendance, significant differences in the pillaring of the Retsof mine – the nature of which may have led to the mine’s collapse – versus the relatively new “small pillar” system employed in the Cayuga mine. Notably enough, according to local environmental activist John Dennis, the construction of the Restof mine was done on the recommendation of current Cargill engineer Gary Peterson, who currently oversees the layout and construction of the mine in Lansing. According to Mine Manager Shawn Wilczynski, the new studies presented by Young are nothing new and the perceived lack of oversight by the DEC, overstated. In 1995, Cargill initiated a seven year process to create an advanced environmental assessment of the mine’s surroundings, a highly advanced geological assessment whose team included two geology PHDs and a comprehensive survey of all available data from the United States Geological Survey.

Since its completion, that study has been used as a baseline for all of Cargill’s independent assessments of the mine’s safety, a document which is reviewed on an annual basis with the DEC in the form of an individual mine stability analysis. That survey then goes through several independent reviews before acceptance by the state. Yet, even if a new shaft is considered by some to be a significant development, under DEC regulations written for salt mining in 1996 (that were actually prompted by mine collapses at Restof and in Tully), additional environmental impact statements and reviews are only required in the instance of new mine construction or developments with significant environmental impacts: according to the DEC, “operators are not required to prepare separate environmental impact statements for individual wells that conform to the law, the rules and regulations, and existing guidelines and standard permit conditions.” That leaves accountability up to the mines

themselves, with consultation from the DEC. “Every single year, the mine’s stability, the mine’s plans… everything is gone over,” Wilczynski said. “The DEC – as lead agency – has been providing tremendous oversight over this. We all do share the same thing – the protection of this lake is the paramount thing to everybody – and we’re members of this community as well. We’re reminded every single day of where we work. That lake is a constant reminder of that.” “The main reason we want to do this is for the health and safety of our employees,” Wilczynski said, who noted that the trip 1,400 feet below the surface takes approximately 45 minutes to travel. “It’s frustrating that fact gets lost when it really is that simple.” For Lansing’s County Legislator, Mike Sigler, the prospect of derailing one of Lansing’s largest employers because of a lack of trust in the judgement of the DEC is an unreasonable one. “The science isn’t good enough for them apparently,” Sigler said. “A lot of people trust the DEC. Apparently these people don’t.” He added: “It’s just one more moratorium for Lansing.” –Nick Reynolds

Morris

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But Morris, whose IthacaCash startup has been working to redefine the very concept of spending – and giving – locally, says the concept of paying it forward, as it’s understood in this sense, is a shallow one; a missed opportunity to learn about a complex economic development strategy he sees as a future revolution in the way Ithacans buy, sell and – of course – give to each other. At first, Morris – who came to his interview armed with emails proving his relationship with the inauspicious red boxes dotting the Commons – saw pay it forward as a simple means of helping people relate to the abstract concept of local currency his business model is based on: you put money into a system that restricts spending to local markets, and it has immediate benefits.It was something he – armed with a map of downtown businesses he got to agree to a pay it forward program several months ago – had thought of a long time ago, in the form of a program called “The Holiday Hunger Game,” back in 2015. The concept was simple: at participating stores, shoppers were tasked with finding a hidden present in participating stores and get a sticker on their map from the cashier. The more stickers on their map, the more Ithacash they earn and, if they agreed to support a charity by donating food items, they could earn extra stickers. The idea, Morris said, was largely to show the visible impact of a local currency: by putting money toward a charitable cause, it had a visual impact that you could track locally. A sticker at Casablanca wouldn’t be redeemable at New York Pizza in Trumansburg, for instance: it would only be spendable in Ithaca, at that one restaurant. Morris’ ideas is to spread that idea, to be able to redeem a charitable item or a “sticker” not just at one restaurant, but any retail location: the stickers in this case, essentially, are representative of an Ithaca Dollar. This idea is intended to show the proper application of local currency as an incentive for people to change their behavior in some slight way, so as to have a much bigger impact than the average person would care to think about. This is why, in Morris’ eyes, the loss of the local currency concept in the Pay It Forward narrative was a significant blow: He always saw something like the Pay It Forward program as a tangible sign of things to come: a way to demonstrate the feasibility of the fairly abstract concept of a truly local currency. At this point, he said educating people on how the system works, for when the launch does happen, is the most important thing. Pay-It-Forward, he said, is all about being participatory in the community: a way of showing a community’s true values through its own, compartmentalized economy where money truly does talk. The introduction of a general marketplace like the red boxes is a good start: a “meatball on a toothpick in the food court” moment, if you will. But it’s also a baby step toward a truly local economy. “That’s been a big question for people for a long time: ‘what do you even do with this? What is the value of this?’” Morris said. “And yes, it keeps money local – that’s super important – but it’s the point of entry where all the leverage is.” –Nick Reynolds

House of Merlot finds a home for drag

Top: House Mistress Kat Von Riesling (Right) poses with Dragon Phoenix (Left). Bottom: House Mistress Athena Merlot nibbles on dollars (Left). Felicia Day rocks her locs (Right). Photos: Alan Xtra

agon-wheel chandeliers, deer heads mounted on the walls, licenses plates and old, country-style portraits decorated the bar. On the stage in the back corner, a performer in a fiery red, beyond ornate costume struts on stage and grooves to the blaring music. She flicks her head and her blond curls trail behind her. She towers over the cheering audience, not only because her confidence is radiant, but because she’s on stilts. The House of Merlot, Ithaca’s drag art house, has made a home for Ithaca’s drag community. They’re gaining traction in what will likely be their physical home, The Range. Beginning in September, they will host biweekly drag performances on Thursdays.

But it wasn’t always simple for the House of Merlot to get a gig or even perform drag in Ithaca before the house formed. Colton Bready and Robby Brown-LaBar, the founders of House of Merlot, officially formed the house in 2012 after they both noticed something missing in Ithaca’s supposedly gay-friendly town: a safe space for LGBT Ithacans, notably a gay bar. When Bready came to Ithaca in 2010 as an Ithaca College student, he quickly learned about the growing need for an LGBT space. “I was told that Ithaca is great for LGBT people: there’s a gay club and there’s an LGBT Center on campus — but when I got here, the only actual gay existence in Ithaca for people

by Christie Citr anglo who are under 21 was the LGBT Center at Ithaca College’s [and Cornell’s] campuses,” Bready said. “That was a gigantic pain in the ass. If the IC students and townies only had the college campuses, that meant there was actually no gay culture in the town.” As far as queer spaces were concerned, the only other place in town was supposedly Waffle Frolic because the owner is LGBT and the restaurant has a safe space sticker in the window. Bready also attempted to reach out to elder gays and bars in the Ithaca community, but he was not met with much support. Each business and elder, he said, continued the same rhetoric that there wasn’t a need for a gay bar since Ithaca has the reputation of a friendly, liberal town. Bready was dissatisfied with the responses he received and sought to create a space anyway. This space came in the form of drag, a performing art where (typically) men dress in extraordinary female costumes. Drag at House of Merlot is not limited specifically to men dressing as women: women can dress in female or male drag, nonbinary folk can dress in drag — the art has no boundaries, and each performer’s limits is set individually. Houses, another staple in the drag community, aren’t usually physical places. House culture began around the ’70s as sanctuaries for LGBT youths and LGBT youths of color to turn to when their families didn’t accept them. Today, houses resemble groups of drag performers under similar styles who typically perform together. “It’s your drag family,” Brown-LaBar said. “We want people in our house to build their names and build up their community while they’re building up our group as well. We help each other out, we share clothes, we share wigs — all that stuff. ” Eager to kick-start the community, Bready found Brown-LaBar, a well-known drag performer in the Central New York area, and recruited him. When the two became friends, they began putting a group together in Ithaca. That group then took on the name House of Merlot, inspired by ancient Greek culture’s tradition of drinking wine during celebrations. House of Merlot became an official house around 2012, about three years after Bready and Brown-LaBar met. Keeping with the theme of wine and family, some performers in House of Merlot adopted names related to wine: Bready’s drag name is Kat Von Riesling and Brown-LaBar’s is Athena Merlot. While the house has been around for about five years, they’ve been more prominent in the last few months. Bready and BrownLaBar attribute this new presence to frequent performances at The Range. But drag was always in Ithaca — performers at House of Merlot used to be a part of it. Contin u ed on page 16

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branch of Black Lives Matter and hosting a vigil. After then, Bready’s interest piqued for regular shows. His interest piqued again after the Elijahda Warner, a performer in 2016 election. House of Merlot who goes by Felicia “And that’s when we decided we Day when in drag, like Bready was also need to be a house — we need to be an Ithaca College student in search of a The House of Merlot,” he said. “We space to perform in drag. He knew there was a community before House of Merlot don’t need to be drag performers who have a name and occasionally put on regular shows at The Range. get together. “There’s That politia new drag cal change is scene — not what caused “Everyone is welcome, even new it: we didn’t — there’s a everyone should feel feel safe, and drag scene comfortable with expressing we needed evolving who they are — House of to be proin Ithaca,” tected.” Merlot is a safe place to do Warner said. While “It’s still that.” there is still booming and — Robby Brown-LaBar no official, still developphysical ing, and it’s space for LGBT been around Ithacans, House of Merlot is working before 2012. There was an official gay to nourish the drag community. Along club in Ithaca back in the ’90s called with frequent shows at The Range, House Common Ground where they would of Merlot is also hosting an amateur have drag shows and a place for LGBT night Thursday, Aug. 10, to recruit new communities to go.” performers and welcome them into the The need for a drag community, family. Bready said, increased after the Pulse “A lot of people are excited there is a Nightclub shooting in Orlando during drag scene,” Brown-LaBar said. “It’s not the summer of 2016 — a direct act of violence against LGBT individuals, more just the gay community — it’s the whole specifically against LGBT people of color. community. It’s really reaching everyone in this community and other communiHouse of Merlot stood in solidarity with ties; for instance, I just got asked to do the victims by teaming up with Ithaca’s drag storytime at Lansing Elementary.” House of Merlot Contin u ed from page 15

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FIRST PLACE BEST WEBSITE DESIGN “Well organized and not too busy. Good use of art throughout.” FIRST PLACE BEST SPECIAL SECTION “All About Ithaca” — fabulous section that speaks all about the community” SECOND PLACE BEST SPECIAL SECTION “Best of Ithaca 2016” — Again, another stellar community centered, well-organized section.” THIRD PLACE OVERALL DESIGN EXCELLENCE DIVISION 1 “Very attractive front pages, and the open feel was carried throughout.” HONORABLE MENTION SPORTS WRITER OF ThE YEAR, 2016 Cassandra Negley

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Athena Merlot sings on stage at The Range. Athena is one of the founding members of The House of Merlot and is appropriately titled the head mistress of the house. (Photo provided)

Until there’s a space, House of Merlot will keep unapologetically spreading their acceptance and glitter throughout Ithaca. “I’ve done so many amazing things with drag: I’ve helped my community, I’ve helped myself, I’ve helped friends,” Brown-LaBar said. “There are so many layers to it, and it’s not something I’m ready to give up yet. I feel connected to something and I feel apart of something,

and that’s definitely a huge thing for me and a lot of other people.”• The House of Merlot’s next show is 9:30 p.m. Thursday, July 27, at The Range. Amateur night is Thursday, Aug. 10. New and interested drag performers 18+ should message The House of Merlot Facebook page for more information or email TheHouseOfMerlot@gmail.com by Aug. 3.

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he Hangar Theatre presents a novel Far from being a f lattering portrait offering with its world premiere of an of hospice work, this seems almost like autobiographical dance play, written parody. The staff, though caring, are played and choreographed by Mimi Quillin. In 90 for laughs: an exercise session consists of minutes, Dégagé explores one dancer’s life an employee (Useche) throwing a semias she faces that difficult end-of-career tran- deflated beach ball at unwilling residents, sition. Its most moving moments acknowl- bonking them repeatedly. Staffers speak to edge the inevitable toll professional dancing their frail and comical wards most condetakes on the body and the relative brevity of scendingly — at times this place seems part one’s stage life. What comes next? mental institution, part nursing home, both For this woman, recently relegated to the burlesqued. chorus in a Broadway tour, one possibility Perhaps the caricatures are intended to beyond teaching emerges: working part- show us how the unsure this dancer first time as an artist-in-residence at Mother of views the hospice, but the stereotyping perGod hospice. Her weekly visits to the resi- sists throughout — of blacks and Latinos dents there interweave with scenes of home and gays, of the elderly and infirm. Useche life, arguing with her critical mother about and Holt gamely assume multiple roles, but her fading career and their respective final neither the script nor the direction permits care for her late father. them to deviate much from uncomfortable Director Michael Barakiva keeps the clichés. set suggestively simple — pale transparRather like watching a sitcom, we folent hangings hint at the flow of dance but low the story and sympathetically intone also inevitably gauzy shrouds or hospital “awww” at some poignant moments (such partitions. Shoko Kambara’s set includes a as a last-days marriage between two resisingle chandelierdents), despite t he scu lpture made obvious construction. of draped IV bags But we desperately and tubes; Debowant these characters rah Constantine’s to have deeper perexpressive lighting sonhood. This play is models and focuses not about them, ultiattention, defining mately — it’s actually varied scenes. about the dancer, how Three actors she transitions into carry the narrative. her post-dance life We n d y Wa r i n g , and begins to move on herself a Broadway The Dégagé cast in hospice work (Photo provided) after her father’s death. performer, is captivatThe scenes in which ing as the dancer — she a nd her mot her beautiful, colorful, full of life, her body trim argue are honest, but seem more like the and strong, in contrast, as we’ll see, to the mother-daughter bickering of one’s late dying lives around her. Costumer Suzanne twenties than late forties (though admitChesney has fitted her elegantly in dark tedly there’s no statute of limitations on grey tights and loose sweater, with a rose familial immaturity). Life’s lessons learned shirt underneath, its hue radiating vibrant are aptly paralleled to a dancer’s posihealth. Two male actors, playing the many tions: You must learn to bend (plié), extend other roles, both male and female, are clad (tendu), and f-inally disengage (dégagé) if drably in white shirts and brown trousers, you are to move forward, much less soar. effectively emphasizing the protagonist. This wisdom is superfluously underscored The younger, Jose Useche, uses his skin- in the final monologue. niness to easily range from comical to Zen detachment aside, thoughtless caripathetic. Older and more solid, Stacey Todd catures overlooked, there are several enterHolt plays the dancer’s mother and others, taining, upbeat dance interludes throughout but his D’Artagnan-style long hair, mous- this show, from pop to salsa, jazz to ballet tache and pointy beard make his female — catchy musical score courtesy of Shane characterizations less easy to absorb. Rettig. The soul-healing power of dance is Quillin, a dancer-choreographer with best expressed in joyous, exuberant movea long and splendid résumé, including ment itself. If Dégagé doesn’t yet inspire working with Bob Fosse, was encouraged you to volunteer at our most excellent to turn one of her life experiences into a Hospicare, it should prompt you to get out play. There are no surprises in her story: an on the dance floor while you still have the artist moves among the less fortunate and legs to do so. learns more about herself and life’s limitations. What is surprising, though, is the Mimi Quillin’s Dégagé, directed by Michael rendering of the caregivers and residents, Barakiva. At the Hangar Theatre through July 29. especially at the outset.

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books

A Dodgy Eater Takes a Leap

New Novel by Eric Lindstrom Breaks down Veganism By Au s tin L amb

Author Eric Lindstrom, at first unsure of a plant-based diet, became a vegan on a dare. and stuck with the lifestyle. (Photo provided)

t first, Eric Lindstrom couldn’t believe it. “Are you serious?” he said, when his friend told him about it.

He thought it was a crazy idea. Who would do something like that? Lindstrom thought to himself. I’d starve to death.

Now, it’s his lifestyle, and the Ithaca resident wrote a book about it. The Skeptical Vegan, which was officially available to the public on July 25, tells the story of Lindstrom’s transition from insatiable meat eater to vegan advocate, from “masticating meat” to “pigging out on plants.” It has garnered praise from wellknown celebrities such as actors Steve-O (Jackass) — whom Lindstrom met and helped inspired him to vegan — Matthew Modine (Stranger Things) and singer Richard Marx. The book’s content — told through Lindstrom’s often humorous personal interactions with veganism as an omnivore and, later, an herbivore — focuses on veganism as a lifestyle, not just a diet. For those willing and interested, Lindstrom hopes that The Skeptical Vegan will help make a seemingly impossible change in their diets, a change which he advises can take time, and requires commitment. “Going vegan is not easy for anyone,” Lindstrom said. “Especially for older people who have eaten as omnivores their entire lives. But it can be done, and the rewards far outweigh the downsides.” Because some might find adjusting to the vegan lifestyle rather difficult, Lindstrom sets out to inspire people, to show how accessible it really is. An audience that Lindstrom hopes to reach is middle-aged men like himself who are “staring down the barrel of the second half of their lives.” However, The Skeptical Vegan’s message should not be considered exclusive to that demographic. “This is the book that the vegan community has been waiting for, since it proves anyone, at any age, can go vegan,” Lindstrom said. Growing up in nearby Binghamton in a household with Italian and Swedish roots, meat used to be a fixture at nearly every meal. This habit continued into Lindstrom’s adult life. He left for college at 140 pounds, but at one point reached as high as

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250 pounds. Lindstrom remembers eating whatever he wanted, but that’s no longer the case. Lindstrom converted to veganism at the beginning of 2011. He describes himself as an “overnight vegan,” his dietary and lifestyle change the result of a New Year’s bet with his girlfriend based off of Colleen Patrick-Goudreau’s 30-Day Vegan Challenge. “I fell asleep a meat eater and woke up vegan,” says Lindstrom. Eventually, the bet’s timeline was extended, and neither he nor his girlfriend (who is now his wife) have lost yet. He now proclaims himself as a “Level 8 vegan” (10 is the highest), and has a blog where he shares his own vegan experience: MeatyVegan.com. Lindstrom’s journey might not have been possible if not for Ithaca’s veganfriendly community. “Ithaca is wildly supportive of veganism, although there is only one vegan restaurant, and it’s relatively new,” Lindstrom said. “I know other vegans in other cities who have never met another vegan in person. There is no doubt that going vegan in a place like Ithaca, or Portland, Oregon for example, is much easier.” While Ithaca may be more preferable a location for an aspiring vegan, nonetheless, Lindstrom is certain that veganism is on the rise. Lindstrom’s desire to be vegan now is driven mainly by ethical reasons. “Being vegan is a choice you make in the interest of either your health or animal welfare (perhaps some make the choice for the environment, which is also admirable),” Lindstrom said. He became more aware of the interconnectivity between humans, animals, and the environment once he went vegan. While some might see the vegan lifestyle as a political venture, it’s not, he said. However, Lindstrom warns that there are some vegans that give the rest a negative reputation in the minds of omnivores. “Angry vegans are everywhere. Hellbent on not only attacking meat eaters for their choices, but also attacking other vegans for their choices,” he explained. While his tone might sound preachy at times — like when detailing what his idea of Planet Vegan would look like — and his claims (which he cites with evidence) controversial, Lindstrom wants to make it clear that he is not trying to force his ideology onto others. He recognizes that veganism isn’t for everyone. “I have to remember that others don’t see the world through the same lens as I do,” he said. Lindstrom’s message, though, is simple: “The real question meat eaters need to ask themselves is why they would argue against any individual trying to make a positive change for themselves, the planet, and for the animals.” • Lindstrom is currently preparing for the annual Animal Rights National Conference held in Alexandria, Virginia. A book signing is scheduled for Saturday, August 12, at Buffalo Street Books.

we were going to do and people approached us wanting to be a part of the show,” said Ploss. Some of the main characters are being played by Tucker Rossi (Scarecrow), Daniel Trippett (Lion), Jeff LaPoint (Tinman), Katie Davis (Dorothy), Bill Bialke (the Wizard of Oz), Reanna Lavine (Glinda), and Francesca Decker (Wicked Witch of The encore Players Put on a Classic in Theater the West). By Su e U lr ich Jeff LaPoint explained that a challenge The Encore Players Community Theatre will bed and is knocked out when her house is of portraying the Tin Woodsman is that he cries a lot and thus rusts all of the time. present The Wizard of Oz on July 27, 28, and tossed about in the tornado. “He has no heart, but actually has the 29 at 7 p.m. and July 30 at 2 p.m. in the TruLanding in Oz, Dorothy accidentally mansburg High School auditorium. kills the Wicked Witch of the East when biggest heart of all. He is the straight man her house touches down. After meeting of the show and is concerned about all.” “This show is fantastic for the whole his musical is definitely geared to an Good Witch Glinda and the Munchkins, audience of all ages,” Bialke com- she starts on her way to the Emerald City by family,” LaPoint continued. “It is more mented. “There are a lot of jokes to way of the Yellow Brick Road and encoun- than just the movie because it explains present images in the minds of children, ters many interesting characters, some the background of and more about each character. It tells but there are unusually exciting scenes that who become f r iends how they got to be will appeal to all. The jitterbug scene is new and traveling companthe way they are. from the movie and is visually exciting. The ions. The quest to return For example, how message found in this musical is the idea home is fraught with the Woodsman got that your heart’s desire can be found in danger as she tangles to be made of tin your own backyard. It is a delightful story with the winged monwithout a heart. that tells that when people think things are keys, the Winkies, and We want to pull exciting on the other side of the fence, it is the Wicked Witch of the in people who just usually found closer to home.” West. k now t he mov ie The Wizard of Oz is based upon the Alice Ploss is the and give them more 1939 film of the same name with a book Musical Director. She information. This adapted by Andrew Lloyd Webber and Jer- conducts the pit band version is more the emy Sams. But the musical will be based on whose members include The journeying gang aghast. (Photo provided) Brothers Grimm the Royal Shakespeare Company’s version Bev Schmidt (piano), Beth than Disney.” and uses the Harold Arlen and E.Y. Har- Organ (f lute, piccolo), Musical numburg songs from the film. Brian Earle (clarinet, bass Dorothy Gale lives on a Kansas farm clarinet, sax), Kelsey Melvin (clarinet, sax), bers include “Over the Rainbow,” “Ding! with her Aunt Em, Uncle Henry, and dog Tim Cardina (trumpet 1), Matthew Haefner Dong! The Witch is Dead,” “If I Only Had Toto, but is bored and dissatisfied. The (trumpet 2), Lincoln Brown (violin), Evelyn a Brain,” “We’re Off to See the Wizard,” “If irascible Miss Gultch threatens to call the Kalish (cello), Ben Haefner (keyboard), I Only Had a Heart,” “If I Only Had the sheriff after Toto bites her leg. Dorothy Caryn Christianson (percussion), Peter Nerve,” “The Merry Old Land of Oz,” and “The March of the Winkies” plus many runs away from the farm and meets Pro- DeCloux (drums), and Robin Ploss (bass). fessor Marvel who begins to tell her about “We decided to present this musical other new and wonderful songs most peothe wonders of the world. When a cyclone because it is beloved by everyone and allows ple have never heard before. Anne Bialke and Alice Ploss develarrives, Dorothy tries to get to the farm’s for many children actors as Munchkins and oped the choreography. Bill Bialke is the shelter, but only makes it to the house. monkeys. There has been a lot of buzz in the She hits her head on the headboard of her community ever since we announced what set designer/technical director. Amanda stage

Follow the Yellow Brick Road T

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Riley is the stage manager with Bobbi Farrell head of costumes. Helping Bobbi are Barb Melvin, Bev Hancox, and Mary Berry. The lighting design is by Steve Blasberg and sound by Aran Gallagher. The posters and T-shirts were designed by Elizabeth Morales. Dan Trippett plays the Cowardly Lion. “The best part about being in this cast is that we got to share in the creativity. We all had a part and were utilized in putting the show together,” he explained. “I have always wanted to play the lion since I was a little boy. I give a nod to Bert Lahr, but bring life to the character myself. The director wanted us to create our own characters and not stick to the movie. This is great stuff.” “My favorite number is when we do ‘We’re Off to See the Wizard’ because it is a good feeling when all for of us are on stage together. We have fun,” remarked Katie Davis, who plays Dorothy. “I really love the ruby slippers. I love how you grow up watching such an iconic character and finally get to play her. She is brave and strong and that always doesn’t come across. I love finding those moments.” “We expect that the performances will attract large audiences,” predicted Alice Ploss. “It is a giant technology show and has been challenging in many ways. We don’t care about the comparison with the movie and will be presenting our own version of The Wizard of Oz. This musical is quite different from the movie and that’s what makes it more fun. Why just recreate? This production will delight and surprise.” • Editor’s note: An earlier version of this story that ran in the Trumansburg Free Press incorrectly stated that the musical would be based on a version by Andrew Lloyd Weber. The version that is actually being used is by the Royal Shakespeare Company and is not associated with Andrew Lloyd Weber.

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film

This War is Bananas

Another installment to the Apes Saga Shines By Br yan VanC ampe n

rthur P. Jacobs, the producer of the five Planet of the Apes films, had a heart attack while producing Doctor Doolittle, and if he were alive today to see how much money Fox spent making War for the Planet of the Apes, the third film in the third Apes reboot, he’d

have another heart attack. Back in Jacobs’ day, sequels were frowned upon; studio economics held that sequels didn’t make as much money as their predecessor, so each successive Apes movie had its budget reduced. By the time Jacobs produced Battle for the Planet

of the Apes, the final film in the series, he only had 1.7 million to spend; the one film that needed production value and epic qualities was really more like Skirmish for the Planet of the Apes. To m y m i n d , t h e A p e s movies at their best are dark and dystopian and disquieting, and War continues with Caesar (Andy Serkis) ruling an ape outpost in a forest. When a human troop tries to stage a siege, Caesar sends the hostages back with a warning: stay away. Then a renegade figure called the Colonel (Woody Harrelson)

One of the apes preparing for battle. (Photo provided)

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takes more lives, and Caesar and a small band of friends go on a quest for revenge. Along the way they take on a mute little girl (Amiah Miller) whose adoptive name will bring appreciative smiles to OG fans. They also meet Bad Ape (Steve Zahn), another talking ape. Zahn’s guileless, kindly performance brings much needed and well-earned lightness and humor to a very unsettling film. T he new reboot work s bec ause, unlike Tim Burton’s misbegotten version, it takes more than a few baby steps away from the original, has established a credible mythology all its own, and all the cool references and nods to the OG Apes series aren’t just piled on, but carefully and creatively thought out. Then there’s the astonishing special effects work being done with motioncapture, allowing Andy Serkis and the talented ape cast every opportunity to drive their own performances as effectively as the OG cast did performing under John Chambers’ groundbreaking prosthetic appliances. And at a budget of $150 million, Apes fans can finally see the battle they’ve always wanted.

***

To be sure, every shot of Luc Besson’s Valerian and the City of a Thousand Planets looks like a cover from Heavy Metal magazine, but what a shame about the screenplay. I am rapidly tiring of sci-fi movies with gorgeous effects and stupid scripts. Better this one should be called Eye Candy: The Movie.

***

Disney’s live-action remake of Beauty and the Beast isn’t bad, by any means. It has a terrific cast that includes Emma Watson, Dan Stevens, Luke Goss, Josh Gad, Kev in K line and as t he Beast’s enchanted staff, Ewan McGregor, Ian McKel la n, Sta n ley Tucci a nd Emma Thompson. But as lavish as it is, it all feels a little beside the point; it’s amazing to see how much money and FX work went into reproducing some of the best cel animation in Disney history. Kids may love the remake, but show them the 1991 animated feature, and they’ll really love that. • War of the Planet of the Apes and Valerian and the City of a Thousand Planets are playing at Regal Cinemas. Contact Regal Ithaca for showtimes.

dining

Bringing Down the House

ithaca com isered powby:

Soulvaki House’s classic dishes are on point By Peg g y Haine

ne of the friendliest restaurants in with bleu cheese dressing and bacon. To Collegetown, the Souvlaki House us, the Souvlaki House’s preparation is has had 40 years to burnish its more satisfying. Eggplant parmesan or parmigiana place in the local pantheon of memorable mom’s home cooking substitutes for gen- (you choose) is a good test of a kitchen’s erations of Cornell students. As well as skill. In lesser establishments, I’ve somebeing a draw for alumni bent on reliving times found it greasy, undercooked, or their misspent youths, and for those of us thickly breaded to the point of unrecogwho never achieved escape velocity, it’s the nizability. This was none of the above. In kind of cozy place where neighbors drop fact, it was perfect, the eggplant soft and by to catch up on recent births, deaths and unctuous, napped with a tasty, spicy red other neighborhood news. Known for its sauce, and topped with a gooey layer of generous portions, and for its inexpensive parmesan and mozzarella, and at $12.95 a subs, it has been a Collegetown culinary hefty good deal. The Souvlaki House’s moussaka, a mainstay, longer than any other C-town delicately spiced Greek dish of eggplant restaurant, as far as we can determine. A deep red awning shades the few and ground beef topped with a thick, sidewalk café tables that hug the front of creamy béchamel, was positively juicy, the building, and keeps the afternoon sun and, with its side of Greek salad made a from roasting diners indoors. Inside, the satisfying meal. On t he l ig hter side , a s ouv l a k i place is sunny, with glass-block separaentrée featurtors providing ing chunks of some privacy charred lamb, while letting in lettuce, tomato, the light. The and feta, walls are hung embraced by w it h f r a me d a soft pita was soccer jerseys deemed a barand images of gain at $6.50. Gre e c e . A nd Half a “Killer the owner Sub,” a toasted seems to work combo of hot as hard as any sausage, pepof h i s c o ok s peroni, maria nd s e r ve r s , nara and a great keeping up a glob of melted friendly banter mozzarella, was with customers Soulvaki House’s open interior. (Photo: Casey Martin) spicy and filling, as they walk in. a nd a s t e a l at The waitresses five bucks. The are exceptionally kind, alert, and seem genuinely concerned toasted bread, from Roma Bakery, was perfect for its purpose — substantial for patrons’ comfort. The Souvlaki House’s extensive menu enough to hold things together securely, is generally Mediterranean, focused on light enough to support the filling without both Greek and Italian specialties, start- giving the impression you’d just eaten a ing with a selection of appetizers (mainly bread sandwich. There are pizzas of many sorts, pasGreek: dolmas, tzatziki, hummus, feta cheese), homemade soup, and salads. But tas, casseroles, calzones, and fresh-made soups on their extensive menu, as well as that is only the beginning. A choice of pasta or fries and a Greek chicken, seafood and veal preparations. salad came as sides with a memorable Our only disappointment was the baklava chicken and artichokes entrée (the most which, while it had a nicely made walnut expensive non-pizza dish on the menu at filling, didn’t live up to our buttery expec$19.95), cooked in white wine and olive tations. It’s a small point. In just a few visits we have yet to make oil, richly perfumed with garlic. The salad was an exercise in enthusiastic mastica- a dent in that menu. We’d return to the tion — huge, with cuts of iceberg lettuce, welcoming Souvlaki House in a heartbeat, chunks of tomato, salty Greek kalamata especially now that the hoards of students olives and a hearty helping of feta cheese, have departed, there’s plenty of parking, tossed in an oregano-flavored vinaigrette. and it’s too hot to cook at home. It was the crisp lettuce of our childhood, before vegetable infanticide brought us Ithaca Times restaurant reviews microgreens, and we must say we’re happy are based on unannounced, to see iceberg returning to fashion, thanks anonymous visits. Reviews can be found at to pricey steakhouses’ offer of the “wedge” ithaca.com/dining

and Finger Lakes Community Newspapers

closes this week! Blending jazz, ballet, and musical theatre dance styles with popular music, Dégagé (disengage) follows the story of The Dancer as she becomes the artist-in-residence in a hospice. Inspired by the patients and their unique stories, The Dancer comes to terms with her own artistry and humanity.

july 20 - 29 Partners in Flight

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HangarTheatre.org • 607.273.ARTS

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7/27 Thursday | East Side Park, 1 East Main St., Norwich | Easy, breezy melodies and soul-shaking grooves radiate from this genre-bending roots trio. Dangermuffin brings thoughtful tunes that are both heartfelt and truthful.

7/28 Friday Music bars/clubs/cafés

7/26 Wednesday

7/27 Thursday

7/28 Friday

h e

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7/29 Saturday

Dr. K Paul Kempkes at Stella’s Barn in Newfield | 7:00 PM-9:00 AM, 7/29 Saturday | Stella’s Barn, 1346 Elmira Rd, Newfield | Favorite songs from Steely Dan and Bruce Springsteen to Frankie Valley and The Ramones. Ben Borkowski & Friends | 7:00 PM-10:00 PM, 7/29 Saturday | Heavily Brewing Co., 2471 Hayes Rd, Montour Falls | Rust | 7:00 PM-10:00 AM, 7/29 Saturday | Grist Iron Brewing, 4880 State Route 414, Burdett | (Classic Rock, Cover band)

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7/30 Sunday

8/01 Tuesday

7/26 Wednesday

Newfield Music Series at Mill Park | 6:00 PM-7:30 PM, 7/26 Wednesday | Mill Park, , Newfield | Newfield Music

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Series at Mill Park presents the Cosmic Songs of Arthur B. And the Planetary Mix. Food by Hot Spot Grill and Dessert from Dennis’ homemade ice cream.

7/27 Thursday

CUMEP Summer Concert 2017 | 5:00 PM-6:00 PM, 7/27 Thursday | Southside Community Center, 305 S Plain St, Ithaca | Children ages 2-18 will showcase their talents they have learned and perfected over just 14 short but glorious days. Kids will dance, sing, play instruments and present artwork — all related to our performing arts and human rights education curriculum. Come support these fantastic kids! Under Construction | 5:30 PM-7:00 PM, 7/27 Thursday | Ithaca Farmers Market, , Ithaca | An Ithaca-based dance band, featuring exceptional vocals and harmonies with a danceable mix of originals, rock, blues, country, funk, ‘50s & ‘60s, and much more. Sunset Music Series: Miller’s Wheel | 6:00 PM-8:00 PM, 7/27 Thursday | Six Mile Creek Vineyard, 1551 Slaterville Rd, Ithaca | (Celtic, Americana, Bluegrass) Live Music at the Market with Richie Stearns & Friends! | 6:00 PM-9:00 PM, 7/27 Thursday | Brookton’s Market, 491 Brooktondale Road, Brooktondale | Come out and enjoy some old time bluegrass and folk music in beautiful Brooktondale! Renowned Ithaca banjo musician Richie Stearns and friends play a show at Brookton’s Market, every other Thursday all summer long! The music starts at 6, and the Market has a sandwich deli, natural groceries, and 22 local beers and ciders on tap for your enjoyment during the show. Dangermuffin | 7:00 PM-9:00 PM,

Dollar Store Cowboy | 6:00 PM-8:00 PM, 7/28 Friday | Felicia’s HiVE 45, 45 E Main St, Trumansburg | Old-time music with Dollar Store Cowboy [Jeff Claus (Horseflies), Judy Hyman (Horseflies), Mac Benford (UpSouth), and Sally Freund (Long John and the Tights).] Under Construction | 6:00 PM-8:00

and beverages not included. Check our website for additional dates and performers www.buttonwoodgrove. com/events 5986 State Route 89, Romulus. 607-869-9760 Turnip the BEETS Benefit Concert for Groundswell Center | 7:00 PM-11:00 PM, 7/28 Friday | Casita Del Polaris, 1201 N Tioga St, Ithaca | Reality Cult & Local Farmers Union bands are joining forces to make some music for Groundswell Center to support diverse beginning farmers and affordable land access! Not From Wisconsin | 7:00 PM, 7/28 Friday | Cornell Arts Quad, Cornell University, Ithaca | Not from Wisconsin

Agent Lorraine Broughton, played by actor Charlize Theron, is on a mission — an impossible mission. Watch her battle the odds as an undercover spy in “Atomic Blonde,” playing at Regal Cinemas beginning July 28. (Photo provided) PM, 7/28 Friday | Newfield Central Schools, 247 Main St, Newfield | An Ithaca-based dance band, featuring exceptional vocals and harmonies with a danceable mix of originals, rock, blues, country, funk, ‘50s & ‘60s, and much more. Buttonwood Deck Party | 7:00 PM-10:00 PM, 7/28 Friday | Buttonwood Grove Winery, 5986 State Route 89, Romulus | Buttonwood Grove Deck Party, 7:00 - 10:00 PM, featuring The Sim Redmond Band. Come party with one of the area’s most popular bands, overlooking beautiful Cayuga Lake. Enjoy Deb’s Delicious BBQ, award winning wines and hard ciders, Blackberry wine slushies, and regional beers. Admission $3 per person, food

will bring its special blend of intelligent lyrics and memorable melodies to the Cornell Arts Quad.

7/29 Saturday

Glass Animals, Little Dragon | 7:00 PM, 7/29 Saturday | Brewery Ommegang, 656 County Highway 33, Cooperstown | (Indie Rock, Art Pop, Psychedelic Pop) Boston, Joan Jett and the Blackhearts | 7:30 PM, 7/29 Saturday | Lakeview Amphitheater, 490 Restoration Way, Syracuse | (Rock, Hard Rock, Progressive Rock) Dashboard Confessional, The All-American Rejects | 8:00 PM, 7/29 Saturday | Tag’s, 2679 State Route 352,

A new, expanded Simeon’s American Bistro re-opened on Ithaca’s Commons late in 2016, restoring jobs and a vibrant presence downtown. Owners Dean Zervos and Rich Avery credit Tompkins Trust Company and Tompkins Insurance Agencies with helping the business stage a comeback after the tragic accident. Dean and Rich worked with Tompkins representatives to get the answers and support they needed to rebuild.

Says Dean: “Tompkins has been absolutely fantastic.”

Local.

Where they are making a comeback.

Need a local decision? Call 888-273-3210. Or visit TompkinsTrust.com. For insurance call 607-257-4440. Or visit TompkinsIns.com.

Where we make decisions. Simeon’s American Bistro Dean Zervos and Richard Avery, Owners Elmira | (Emo, Rock, Indie Rock)

7/30 Sunday

Music & Mimosas | 12:00 PM-3:00 PM, 7/30 Sunday | Hosmer Winery, 6999 State Route 89, Ovid | Live music from Tribal Revival Duo: Marc & Tom. Serving up fresh mimosas as well as wine and beer by the glass and bottle.

8/01 Tuesday

Music in the Hollow: Jeff Love Band | 6:00 PM-8:00 PM, 8/01 Tuesday | Ellis Hollow Community Center, 111 Genung Rd, Ithaca | (Motown, Funk, Soul) Stanley Chepaitis | 7:30 PM, 8/01 Tuesday | Schwartz Center for the Performing Arts, Cornell University, Ithaca | Chepaitis plays jazz pieces that reflect the spirit of Bach and Telemann.

Film Cinema Under the Stars: Double Indemnity | 9:30 PM, 7/26 Wednesday | Willard Straight Hall 5th fl lounge, , Ithaca | The last installment in Cornell Cinema’s Cinema Under the Stars series. Cinemapolis

Friday, 7/28 to Thursday, 8/03. Contact Cinemapolis for Showtimes Beatriz at Dinner| A holistic medicine practitioner attends a

wealthy client’s dinner party after her car breaks down. | 83 mins R | The Hero | An ailing movie star comes to terms with his past and mortality. | 93 mins R | The Beguiled | At a girls’ school in Virginia during the Civil War, where the young women have been sheltered from the outside world, a wounded Union soldier is taken in. Soon, the house is taken over with sexual tension, rivalries, and an unexpected turn of events. | 93 mins R | The Little Hours | A young servant fleeing from his master takes refuge at a convent full of emotionally unstable nuns in the Middle Ages. Introduced as a deaf blind man, he must fight to hold his cover as the nuns try to resist temptation. | 90 mins R | Maudie | An arthritic Nova Scotia woman works as a housekeeper while she hones her skills as an artist and eventually becomes a beloved figure in the community. | 115 mins PG-13 | Regal Ithaca

Wednesday, 7/26 , to Tuesday, 8/01. Contact Regal Ithaca for Showtimes Spider-Man: Homecoming | Several months after the events of

Insurance and investment products are not FDIC insured, have no bank guarantee and may lose value.

Captain America: Civil War, Peter Parker, with the help of his mentor Tony Stark, tries to balance his life as an ordinary high school student in Queens while fighting crime as his superhero alter ego Spider-Man as a new threat, the Vulture, emerges. | 133 mins PG-13 | Despicable Me 3 | Gru meets his long-lost charming, cheerful, and more successful twin brother Dru who wants to team up with him for one last criminal heist. | 90 mins PG | Baby Driver | After being coerced into working for a crime boss, a young getaway driver finds himself taking part in a heist doomed to fail. | 113 mins R | War for the Planet of the Apes | After the apes suffer unimaginable losses, Caesar wrestles with his darker instincts and begins his own mythic quest to avenge his kind.| 140 mins PG-13 | Wish Upon | A teenage girl discovers a box that carries magic powers and a deadly price for using them. | 90 mins PG-13 | The Big Sick | A couple deals with their cultural differences as their relationship grows. | 120 mins R | Dunkirk | Allied soldiers from Belgium, the British Empire and France are surrounded by the German army and evacuated during

a fierce battle in World War II.| 116 mins PG-13 | Girls Trip | When four lifelong friends travel to New Orleans for the annual Essence Festival, sisterhoods are rekindled, wild sides are rediscovered, and there’s enough dancing, drinking, brawling, and romancing to make the Big Easy blush. | 122 mins R | Valerian and the City of a Thousand Planets | A dark force threatens Alpha, a vast metropolis and home to species from a thousand planets. Special operatives Valerian and Laureline must race to identify the marauding menace and safeguard not just Alpha, but the future of the universe. | 137 mins PG-13 Atomic Blonde | An undercover MI6 agent is sent to Berlin during the Cold War to investigate the murder of a fellow agent and recover a missing list of double agents. | 115 mins R | The Emoji Movie | Gene, a multiexpressional emoji, sets out on a journey to become a normal emoji.| 86 mins PG |

Stage Amy Dickinson (One Night Only) | 7:00 PM, 7/26 Wednesday | Auburn

Public Theater, 8 Exchange St, Auburn | Amy, accompanied by musicians Nate & Kate, will tell stories from her new book Strangers Tend to Tell Me Things. It will be a night of audience games, participation, stories, and music. Amy Dickinson is a syndicated advice columnist, Ask Amy, and a frequent panelist on NPR’s Wait Wait, Don’t Tell Me. Parade | 7:30 PM, 7/26 Wednesday | Merry-Go-Round Playhouse, 6877 E Lake Rd, Auburn | Based on the fascinating true story and courtroom drama surrounding the famous trial of Leo Frank, Parade is a powerful and compelling musical that captures a storied moment in American history. Almost Heaven | Through July 30 | Chenango River Theatre, 991 State Hwy 12 (3 mi S of Greene), Greene | Almost Heaven is a high-energy journey through the life and times of an accomplished, often underrated artist, whose career spanned some of the more challenging times in American history. Performances are Thursdays through Saturdays at 7:30 p.m., plus Sunday matinees at 2 p.m. Genre Savvy Presents: Political Thriller | 7:00 PM-9:00 PM, 7/27 Thursday | Lot 10 Lounge, 106 S Cayuga St, Ithaca | Comedy Night | 7:00 PM, 7/27 Thursday | The Dock, 415 Taughannock Blvd, Ithaca | (Improv, Stand up. Hosted by Comedy FLOPs) Don Giovanni | 7:30 PM, 7/27 Thursday | Smith Opera House For The Performing Arts, 82 Seneca St, Geneva | Be seduced by Mozart’s Don Giovanni. Geneva Light Opera presents its summer production of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart’s operatic masterpiece. American Idiot | Through August 5 | The Central New York Playhouse, 3169 Erie Blvd E, B201, Syracuse | The two-time Tony Award-winning hit musical Green Day’s American Idiot, based on the Grammy Award-winning multi-platinum album, boldly takes the American musical where it’s never gone before. Johnny, Tunny and Will struggle to find meaning in a post-9/11 world. Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays at 8 p.m., Sundays at 2 p.m. Country on the Range Drag Show: House of Merlot | 9:30 PM, 7/27 Thursday | The Range, 119 E State St, Ithaca | Join the House of Merlot for a country-themed drag show at The Range. There may even be false eyelashes on our favorite

Turnip the Beets Benefit Concert for Groundswell,

Tompkins County Public Library Thursday, July 27, 5:30 p.m.

Casita Del Polaris, Ithaca, Friday, July 28, 7 p.m.

Rafael Alvarez, the screenwriter for the HBO drama The Wire, is coming to Ithaca for a book talk and night of performances. Also performing are Dean Smith and Jeffrey Barken. Hosted by the Tompkins County Public Library, Buffalo Street Books and Cornell University Press, come on out for a night of writing and literature. (Photo provided)

Reality Cult and Local Farmers Union bands are coming togehter to jam out for the Groundswell Center. This concert will specifically benefit diverse beginning farmers and work for affordable land access. Both bands playing are inspired by rock, and even vegtables — the exact cause they’re jamming for. (Photo provided)

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Haywire: Featuring “The Wire” Screenwriter,

mounted deer. Aesop’s Fables | Through July 29 | Hangar Theatre, 801 Taughannock Blvd, Ithaca | (Runs 12:00 p.m. also) Music and make-believe bring to life seven of Aesop’s most beloved fables including The Boy Who Cried Wolf, The Wind and the Sun, and The Leaping Cow. Not From Wisconsin | 7:00 PM, 7/28 Friday | Cornell Arts Quad, Cornell University, Ithaca | Pop music with a serious edge. Ithaca Shakespeare Company: Richard III: The Winter Of Our Discontent | Through July 29 | Allan H. Treman State Marine Park, 805 Taughannock Blvd, Ithaca | The grand finale in ISC’s epic series of Shakespeare’s English history plays. The Wars of the Roses are over, the house of York has been victorious, and England is at peace...until Richard of Gloucester begins maneuvering against his own family to take the throne for himself. Peril Of The Purloined Pirate Plunder | Through July 29 | Old Havana Courthouse Theatre, 480 W. Main St., Montour Falls | Musical Melodrama. Also showing July 30 at 2 p.m. Dégagé | Through July 29 | Hangar Theatre, 801 Taughannock Blvd, Ithaca | Blending jazz, ballet and musical theatre dance styles with popular music, Dégagé tells the story of The Dancer as she becomes the artist-inresidence in a hospice. Inspired by the patients and their unique stories, The Dancer comes to terms with her own artistry and humanity. A world premiere that intertwines dance with theatre and shows us how we can all just let go. Don Giovanni | Through July 30 | Smith Opera House For The Performing Arts, 82 Seneca St, Geneva | Be seduced by Mozart’s Don Giovanni. Geneva Light Opera presents its summer production of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart’s operatic masterpiece. Ithaca Shakespeare Company: Much Ado About Nothing | Through July 30 | Allan H. Treman State Marine Park, 805 Taughannock Blvd, Ithaca | When Don Pedro and his soldiers arrive in sunny Messina for some much-needed R & R, love blossoms, and Beatrice and Benedick rekindle their merry war of wit. Don Pedro attempts to out-do Cupid by tricking Beatrice and Benedick into falling in love with each other, while Don John and his drunken henchmen scheme to ruin the marriage of their hated rival.

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Encore Players Presents “The Wizard of Oz” |Through July 30 | Trumansburg High School Auditorium, 100 Whig St., Trumansburg | Take a magical journey down the Yellow Brick Road with Encore Players’ cast of over fifty as they transport you to the Land of Oz! A mix of new and familiar faces, this cast is rich in talent. Director Anne Bialke and Music Director Alice Ploss, both veterans of countless productions, team up for their fourth big musical for Encore Players, and a seasoned production team promises wonderful costumes, imaginative sets and a full orchestra.

Notices Varna After School Program Enrolling Now | Enrolling PreK-5th grade now for 2017-2018! High-quality care, play-based and STEAM learning, ICSD transportation provided, sibling discount, DSS support welcome, full day programs during school vacations and more! (607) 272-2658 VASP@ VarnaCommunityAssociation.org www. VarnaAfterSchoolProgram.com Candor’s Farmers Market | 3:30 PM-6:30 PM, 7/27 Thursday | Candor Town Hall, , Candor | Fresh local garden produce, cheeses, meats, eggs, baked goods, handcrafts and more. Candorfarmersmkt@gmail.com Beginner Bird Walks | 8:30 AM, 7/29 Saturday | Cornell Lab of Ornithology, 159 Sapsucker Woods Rd, Ithaca | Guided bird walks every Saturday and Sunday morning, starting at 8:30 a.m., sponsored by the Cayuga Bird Club. Targeted toward beginners, but appropriate for all. Binoculars available for loan. Meet at the front of the building. For more information, go to the club’s website, http://www.cayugabirdclub.org/calendar

Learning

photos in the gardens; session two will use participants’ photos to explore the editing process. All digital camera types (smart phone, point-and-shoot, and DSLR) and all experience levels are welcome. Equity, Inclusion, and Incarceration: A Rural Perspective | 6:00 PM-7:45 PM, 7/27 Thursday | Enfield Community Center, 182 Enfield Main Rd, Ithaca | The Enfield Democratic Committee invites you to join in a community discussion of the possible expansion of the Tompkins County Jail, and related issues of equity and inclusion in the Town of Enfield. Cartoonime: Drawing Cartoons & Anime | 5:00 PM-6:15 PM, 8/01 Tuesday | One Seventy One Cedar Arts Center, 171 Cedar St, Corning | For ages 8-12, though older students are also welcome. Learn to draw your favorite cartoon and anime characters at this workshop.

Special Events Doug’s Fish Fry Fundraiser | 11:00 AM-6:00 PM, 7/26 Wednesday | Tractor Supply Co., 378 Elmira Road, Ithaca | Doug’s Fish Fry Fundraiser for Ithaca Lions Club. Proceeds fund local

ThisWeek

Catapult Workshop | 3:30 PM, 7/26 Wednesday | Van Etten Library, 83 Main Street, Van Etten | Catapult design: create your own catapult! Floral Portraits: A Two-Day Photography Workshop | 6:00 PM-9:00 PM, 7/26 Wednesday | Brian C. Nevin Welcome Center, 124 Comstock Knoll Drive, Ithaca | Learn how to approach garden photography as portraiture to capture greater emotional content and viewer interest. Session one will be spent mostly taking

The Glass Animals are coming to Cooperstown. They’ve performed at the popular music festival Coachella and now they’re ready to bring their psychedelic vibes to Central New York. Don’t miss their show with Little Dragon 7 p.m. Saturday, July 29, at Brewery Ommegang. (Photo provided)

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sight, hearing, youth projects. Bostwick Auction | 7:00 PM-9:00 PM, 7/26 Wednesday | Bostwick’s Auction House, 1121 Rt 96, Candor | For more than 25 years, Bostwick Auctions has been a privately owned and family operated business, and will host the Historical Society for an evening of information and free appraisals. Heliodelic Topography: Expressions of Sun-drenched Forms | 7/27 Thursday | North Star Art Gallery, 743 Snyder Hill Road, Ithaca | View the gallery by appointment. Newfield Old Home Days | 5:00 PM-8:00 PM, 7/28 Friday | Newfield Central School, Main Street, Newfield | Saturday starts at 11:00 with the annual parade. Free live music and craft and food vendors all day including a chicken BBQ and the Lions Club. Fireman’s Water Ball contest, Ping Pong Ball Drop, giant slip and slide, bounce houses, dunking booth and more! Fireworks at dark! Come enjoy the day and support this year’s theme: There’s no place like home! Fourth Annual Mo Songs For Kerry Cancer Fundraiser | 10:00 AM-8:00 PM, 7/29 Saturday | East Waverly Park, Waverly | A large music festival with nine local bands and solo performers from the area playing at various times throughout the day. There will be a

30+ craft vendor craft show, BBQ food, carnival games for the kids along with crafts for them to make and take home. Sterling Renaissance Festival | 10:00 AM-7:00 PM, 7/29 Saturday | Sterling Renaissance Festival, 15385 Farden Road, Sterling | The Sterling Renaissance Festival is one of the oldest and most successful producers of professional interactive entertainment in the world. Thrill to the excitement of over 100 stage and street performers, professional actors, comedians and musicians who whimsically recreate an authentic English Renaissance village for you to experience. Ithaca is Foodies Culinary Tours | 11:30 AM-2:30 PM, 7/29 Saturday | Downtown Ithaca, The Commons, Ithaca | Join us for a narrated, guided walking tour showcasing a variety of Ithaca’s restaurants as well as historical, architectural and cultural points of interest. Enjoy six delicious food tastings — enough for a full lunch — while we learn about the food you’re enjoying and the people who make it. Vegan, vegetarian, and gluten free diets are welcome. Visit www. ithacaisfoodies.com for more info and to purchase tickets. Heritage Village Craft Beverage Expo | 1:00 PM-4:00 PM, 7/29 Saturday | Heritage Village, 59 W.

U-Pick Garlic Harvest Party Indian Creek Farm, Ithaca Sunday, July 30, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Indian Creek Farm kicks off the first Harvest Festival of the season. Bring the kids and bring your friends. Be prepared to pick enough garlic to last through the winter, or feel free to pick enough to last the next few weeks — then there’ll be something to brag about at the next potluck. There will also be face painting for all ages, and the Indian Creek Farm shops willl be open. (Photo provided)

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Pulteney Street, Corning | Some of the best craft breweries from around the neighborhood and around the county will be on hand to offer samples of their finest brewing achievements to event attendees. The event takes place outdoors under tents and within the buildings of the Heritage Village. In addition to tastings there will be historic demonstrations, workshops, a home brew contest and food available. Visit www.heritagevillagesfl.org for more information and to purchase tickets. Broome County Fair | 7/30 Sunday | Broome County Fairgrounds, 51 Grand Stand Blvd., Whitney Point | Tractor Pulls, Carnival Pulls, Motorcycle Stunts, Demolition Derbies, Live Music, Deliciously Sweet and Savory Foods, Contests and Livestock Auctions. Info and complete lineup at broomecountyfairny.com Sterling Renaissance Festival | 10:00 AM-7:00 PM, 7/30 Sunday | Sterling Renaissance Festival, 15385 Farden Road, Sterling | The Sterling Renaissance Festival is one of the oldest and most successful producers of professional interactive entertainment in the world. Thrill to the excitement of over 100 stage and street performers, professional actors, comedians and musicians who whimsically recreate an authentic English Renaissance village for you to experience. The Buffalonian Food Truck at Hosmer Winery | 11:00 AM-3:00 PM, 7/30 Sunday | Hosmer Winery, 6999 State Route 89, Ovid | The Buffalonian Food Truck visits Hosmer Winery. Fifth Annual Just Be Cause Party | 5:00 PM-9:00 PM, 7/30 Sunday | Agava, 381 Pine Tree Rd, Ithaca | All proceeds benefit The Village at Ithaca and The Just Be Cause Not-For-Profit Development Center, Inc.

Kids Summer Sprouts | 10:00 AM-11:00 AM, 7/26 Wednesday | Ithaca Children’s Garden, South End of Cass Park, Route 89, Ithaca | Story time at 10 a.m. in the garden. Experience the wonders of gardening through stories and hands-on gardening projects. Learn about gardens and the creatures that live there, then dig in with your own two hands! Yoga Storytime | 10:00 AM, 7/26 Wednesday | Tompkins County Public Library, 101 E Green St, Ithaca |

Children ages 3 through 10 are invited to join the Tompkins County Public Library and yoga instructor Diane Hamilton for a special, weekly Yoga Storytime. Yoga Storytime will delight active young book lovers by bringing favorite stories to life with yoga poses. No yoga experience or mat is required, but comfortable clothing is recommended. Summer Baby Storytime | 10:30 AM-11:00 AM, 7/28 Friday | Tompkins County Public Library, 101 E Green St, Ithaca | These fun filled programs will include stories, songs, rhymes, baby sign language and early literacy tips. Baby Storytime sessions will be immediately followed by an hour-long Baby and Toddler Playtime, designed to encouraged socialization and hands-on learning through informal free-play. For more information, contact the Library’s Youth Services Department at (607) 272-4557 extension 275. Animal Show and Tell With Cayuga Nature Center | 11:00 AM, 7/28 Friday | Tompkins County Public Library, 101 E Green St, Ithaca | Children ages 5 and up and their families are invited to learn about Cayuga Nature Center’s animal friends with this fun-filled annual favorite. The Nature Center houses a fascinating assortment of animals, from snakes and reptiles to flying squirrels, birds, and even a chinchilla. Summer Family Storytime | 11:00 AM-11:30 AM, 7/29 Saturday | Tompkins County Public Library, 101 East Green Street, Ithaca | Children of all ages and their caregivers are invited to celebrate reading and build their early-literacy skills at Summer Family Storytime. Circus Culture Performance | 10:00 AM, 8/01 Tuesday | Tompkins County Public Library, 101 E Green St, Ithaca | Being held in conjunction with the Library’s 2017 Build a Better World Summer Reading Program, this fun-filled event will include juggling, partner acrobatics and high-wire routines performed by students ages 8 through 14. Stories in the Park | 11:30 AM-12:00 PM, 8/01 Tuesday | Dewitt Park Farmers Market, , Ithaca | Children and families are invited to join library staff for lively stories, music and family fun, and stay for lunch and shopping at the Market. For more information, contact the library’s Youth Services Department at (607) 272-4557 extension 275.

Cinema Under the Stars: “Double Indemnity”, Willard Straight Terrace, Cornell Cinema, Wenesday, July 26, 9:30 p.m.

This film is the final installment in Cornell Cinema’s “Cinema Under the Stars” series, which is a summer outdoor movie feature with films chosen by popular demand. This 1944 film follows an insurance representative as he gets tangled up in a murder and insurance fraud scheme. This film is directed by Billy Wilder and stars Fred MacMurray and Barbara Stanwyck. (Photo provided)

Knot Tying for Kids | 1:30 PM-3:00 PM, 8/01 Tuesday | Finger Lakes Boating Museum, 8214 Pleasant Valley Rd, Hammondsport | Children between the ages of 8 and 12 can join the class. Experienced boater Bill Smith will give kids a hands-on experience with knot tying.

Health Tai Chi Wellness | 8:45 AM-9:45 AM, 7/27 Thursday | 171 Cedar Arts Ctr, 171 Cedar St, Corning | Learn Tai Chi and stay fit this summer. Food Addicts in Recovery Anonymous Weekly Meeting | 8:00 AM-9:30 AM, 7/29 Saturday | Just Be Cause Center, 1013 W. State Street, Ithaca | Twelve-step recovery program for those who can’t control their eating. No dues, fees, or weigh-ins. Long-term help for overeaters, undereaters and bulimics. Sacred Sunday Community at Yoga Farm | 8:00 AM-10:45 AM, 7/30 Sunday | Yoga Farm, 404 Conlon Rd, Lansing | Sacred Sundays Community at Yoga Farm. You are invited to join the entire event, and you are equally welcome to join at the top of the hour at 8, 9, or 10am. Mid-Day Mindfulness Sessions | 12:00 PM-12:30 PM, 8/01 Tuesday | Tompkins County Public Library, 101 E Green St, Ithaca | Facilitated by psychotherapist and Certified Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction Teacher Anna Salamone, RN, LCSW, these sessions will encourage participants to shift out of automatic pilot mode and observe the workings of the mind, body and emotions.

Science Tree Phenology Walk Series | 10:30 AM-11:00 AM, 7/27 Thursday | Cayuga Nature Center, 1420 Taughannock Blvd, Ithaca | Join the Cayuga Nature Center for our series of weekly citizen science walks to observe and collect data on seasonal changes in trees. The data we will collect will be sent to the USA National Phenology Network, which makes it available to researchers who are trying to understand the biological mechanisms behind seasonal changes and how they are influenced by a changing climate. Booze and Botany: A Garden Cocktail Party | 5:00 PM-7:00 PM, 7/27 Thursday | Cornell Botanic

Heads Up Genuine Tunes

by Christie Citranglo

Lady D and the Shadow Spirits, 9 p.m. Friday, July 28, The Range In a small Mennonite Church, a young singer belts above the rest of the choir — every Sunday. Alyssa Duerksen, the “Lady D” of Lady D and the Shadow Spirits, channels her brash, rambunctious youth into her music. Growing up in the subdued environment of her church, she struggled to find the spirit at soul when she sang as a child. The organist and the pianist at her church propelled her skills forward, but it wasn’t until she was a student at Ithaca College that her dreamy, indie-folk vibes emerged. And she’s ready to show off these skills at The Range — the release party for her new EP, Raven & a Sparrow. Duerksen has a full voice, and she plays with her range on each of her songs — except when she’s quiet. On tracks such as “Impossible Dreams,” Duerksen opens with quiet vocals, whispering to the listener and drawing them

Gardens - Herb Garden, 124 Comstock Knoll Drive, Ithaca | Join us for a members-only cocktail party in the gardens, featuring drinks and savory hors d’oeuvres made with fresh herbal ingredients. Registration includes six small cocktails with paired tapas plates and recipes, presented by Agava Restaurant. Guided Gorge Hikes | 11:00 AM-1:00 PM, 7/29 Saturday | Fall Creek Gorge, across from Johnson Art Museum; Cascadilla Gorge, Treman Triangle Park, University Avenue or Linn Street, Ithaca | Come explore Ithaca’s gorges with Cornell’s knowledgeable Gorge Stewards. Fall Creek Gorge Hikes: Saturdays and Sundays, 11:00 a.m., meet at the information sign on University Avenue across from the Johnson Art Museum. Cascadilla Gorge Hikes: Saturdays and Sundays, 1:00 p.m., meet at the information sign in Treman Triangle Park, off Linn Street in downtown Ithaca.The hikes are moderately strenuous, including walking on uneven surfaces, inclines, and plenty of stairs. Tours will not run in inclement

into her poetry. Her range is largely attributed to her inspirations, which are scattered from all corners of the musical world. The one consistent quality with her inspirations lies within authenticity, a quality that pulls her in when she’s both a listener and a writer. “If it sends chills through my body or makes me emotional or it grips me in this way that I can’t deny — that’s what I’m inspired by,” Duerksen said. “I’m really inspired by these artists who are purely authentic, and that’s what I try and channel, too: pure authenticity.” And perhaps the most authentic track on her latest work comes from the song “WarLord.” All songs on Raven & a Sparrow were recorded in a proper study, but “WarLord” was instead recorded on her iPad on the eve of the 2016 presidential election. The effects of her voice on the iPad, instead of sounding crackly and scattered, echoes and reverberates and stirs in the heads of listeners. Genuine fear and concern emerge on this track, capturing Duerksen’s emotions regarding the state of the U.S. and in her personal life. “My influence is also my soul writing the piece,” she said. “It’s a deep personal process to even sing this song. … I found myself at 2 in the morning, locked myself in my room and just got it out of my system. I listened to it later and was like,

weather. Garden Tours | 2:00 PM-3:00 PM, 7/29 Saturday | Cornell Botanic Gardens Nevin Welcome Center, 125 Comstock Knoll, Ithaca | Enjoy a guided tour and discover the beauty and diversity of our numerous gardens, including the Herb Garden, Flower Garden, Groundcover Collection, Tropical Container Display, and more. Tours are offered every Saturday and Sunday, rain or shine. Actual tour content will vary from week to week, depending what’s in bloom and the interests of the group. Drop-In and Volunteer! | 5:00 PM-7:00 PM, 8/01 Tuesday | Brian C. Nevin Welcome Center (Parking Lot), 124 Comstock Knoll Drive, Ithaca | Tuesdays are drop-in volunteer nights this summer at Cornell Botanic Gardens! Stop by and unwind from your day with some evening weeding therapy. Meet new people, learn about plants from a knowledgeable staff horticulturist, and help keep our gardens looking beautiful. Wear comfortable clothes and bring your own garden gloves and hand tools, if you have them.

Alyssa Duerksen of Lady D and the Shadow Spirits (Photo: Benjamin Torrey) ‘What happened? Was I possessed or something?’” When Duerksen performs, she keeps her sets short and simple — nothing to mess with the authenticity of the song. “I try to let new songs land for a

Ongoing Yoga Mind and Body Meditation Series | 12/30 Saturday-6:00 PM, 7/26 Wednesday | WSH Art Gallery, 136 Ho Plaza, Ithaca | In this class we will explore yoga through movement, breath work, and meditation. We will awaken and invigorate the body & mind through breathing techniques and a sequence of gentle active postures and soothing stretches. Then we will move towards more passive postures and meditation to relax and rejuvenate the body and mind. This class is open to all levels and all bodies. Open Hearts Dinner | 12/30 Saturday-6:30 PM, 7/26 Wednesday | McKendree UMC, 224 Owego St., Candor | Come and join in the fun. Whether you are looking for fellowship or a free meal this one’s for you. Contact: Denice Peckins denicepeckins@hotmail.com Wednesday Night Ithaca Women’s Basketball Association: Open to girls & women ages 16 & up | 12/30 Saturday-9:00 PM, 7/26 Wednesday |

while, and then coax it out slowly,” she said. “There are times when I’m asked to sing a song and I just can’t. Sometimes I just need to get into my weird world and just find what comes out.”•

A Free Speech - Open Forum Discussion | 12/30 Saturday-9:00 PM, 8/01 Tuesday | Room #3, 2nd Floor, Above The Mate Factor Cafe, 143 Center of the Commons, Ithaca | We have tea, cookies, and a lively open discussion on the deep issues concerning humanity and our future. Please join us!

Lehman Alternative Community School, 111 Chestnut St, Ithaca | The league is non-competitive and fun and involves pick-up style playing. Check out the league’s website for more information: https://ithacawomensbasketball. wordpress.com/ Pickleball at the Ithaca YMCA | 12/30 Saturday-2:00 PM, 7/27 Thursday | Ymca, Graham Rd W, Ithaca | Pickleball at the Ithaca YMCA Take off Pounds Sensibly | 12/30 Saturday-, 7/27 Thursday | Candor Town Hall, 101 Owego Road, Candor | Contact Jean Dewey Leader 659-9969 or jmdewey@frontiernet.net Tarot Salon Ithaca | 7/31 Monday | Sacred Root Kava Lounge & Tea Bar, 139 W State St, Ithaca | Tarot Salon Ithaca is a co-manifested space for all who are drawn to, enchanted by, and create with Tarot. Come share your insights, engage in discussion, exchange readings, and explore Tarot in a supportive community setting. Every last Monday of the month, beginning March 28, 2016. The Ultimate Purpose Rap Session:

Celebrating Suffrage: Kindling the Flame | 12:00:00 AM-11:59:59 PM, 7/27 Thursday | Cazenovia Public Library, 100 Albany St, Cazenovia | Art exhibit celebrating suffrage. Self Determination | 12:00:00 AM-11:59:59 PM, 7/31 Monday | West End Gallery, 12 W Market St, Corning | Exhibit featuring new paintings by GC Myers.

Got Submissions? Send your events items – band gigs, benefits, meet-ups, whatever – to arts@ithacatimes.com.

Movies in the Park: Jurassic Park,

The Dock, Ithaca, Saturday, July 29, 9:45 p.m.

Stewart Park, Ithaca, Friday, July 21, 8:30 p.m.

Cortadito is a musical group from Miami that plays traditional Cuban music from the 20th century. Their performance also has an interactive dance for the audience, so come early at 9 p.m. if you want to learn how to Salsa in tune with the music. Playing at The Dock, dance your way out onto the Cayuga Inlet as Cortadito takes you away. (Photo provided)

The Movies in the Park kicks off its first film of the summer with a roar. Jurassic Park will be screened at Stewart Park, completed with food trucks and other activities for all ages. Directed by Steven Spielberg , the film stars Sam Neill, Laura Dern, Jeff Goldblum as they survive in a theme park that’s been taken over by dinosaurs. (Photo provided)

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Apply for online financing. VW/Audi (used) Sales, Service, Parts. 36 years. Open 7 Days a Week. Leather Theater Seats, Keurig Coffee, WiFi 315-789-2200 www.SelectEuroCars.com Routes 5 & 20 Waterloo Donate your car to Wheels For Wishes, benefiting Make-A-Wish. We offer free towing and your donation is 100% tax deductible. Call:315-400-0797 Today! (NYSCAN)

A Garage-Moving Sale

15 Aspen Way, Ithaca, Sat. 7/29, 8am2pm. Twin beds, household furniture, kitchen items, decorative items, some games & toys, everything must go!

Headlines: 9-point headlines (use up to 16 characters) $2.00 per line. If bold type, centered or unusually spaced type, borders in ad, or logos in ads are requested, the ad will be charged at the display classified advertising rate. Call 277-7000 for rate information. Free Ads: Lost and Found and free items run at no charge for up to 3 weeks. Merchandise for Sale, private party only. Price must be under $100 and stated in ad

15 words / runs 2 insertions

19.

buy sell

community

250/Merchandise

Varna After School Program

SAWMILLS from only $4397.00 - MAKE & SAVE MONEY with your own bandmillcut lumber any dimension. In stock ready to ship. FREE Info /DVD: www. NorwoodSawmills.com 1-800-578-1363 Ext. 300N (NYSCAN) U-PICK Naturally grown blueberries, $2.25/lb. Open 7 days a week, dawn-dusk. Easy to pick high bush berries. Tons of great quality fruit. Serendipity Blueberry Farm, 3455 Chubb Hollow Road, Penn Yan NY 14527. 607-368-7151

Enrolling now for 2017-2018! Pre-K-5th Grade High-quality care, play-based and STEAM learning. ICSD transportation provided, sibling discount, DSS support welcome, full day programs during school vacations and more! (607)272-2658 VASP@VarnaCommunityAssociation.org www.VarnaAfterSchoolProgram.com

You Pick Pie Cherries

410/Business Opportunity

3723 County Rd 2, Hector, NY. Easy Picking. Call or text 607-229-7369. Open 9-4, $1.50/lb

AIRLINE CAREERS

MAKE THE CALL TO START GETTING CLEAN TODAY

Free 24/7 Helpline for alcohol & drug addiction treatment. Get Help! It is time to take your life back! Call Now: 855732-4139 (AAN CAN)

Start Here - Get trained as FAA Certified Aviation Technician. Financial aid for qualified students. Job placement assistance. Call AIM for free information 866-296-7094. (NYSCAN)

430/General Administrative and Sales Position

We are looking for dependable candidate to join our growing teams! Applicants must have great attendance, a positive attitude and be able to work in a fastpaced team environment. Positions Available include Administrative Positions, Sales Position, $12.28/hr. 90 day bonus-$500. Referral bonuses $25004000 for employees. Send resume to recruiting.dept@outlook.com Part-time/ Full-time.

employment Breezeland Orchards

Warren, MA needs 6 temporary workers 8/1/2017 to 11/1/2017, work tools supplies, equipment provided without cost to worker. Housing will be available without cost to workers who cannot reasonably return to their permanent residence at the end of the work day. Transportation reimbursement and subsistence is provided upon completion of 15 days or 50% on the work contract. Work is guaranteed for 3/4 of the workdays during the contract period. $12.38 per hr. Applicants apply at Workforce Central Career Center, 5 Optical Drive-Suite 200, Southbridge,MA 01550 (508)765-6430 or apply for the job at the nearest local office of he SWA. Job order #9042562. To plant, cultivate and harvest fruit crops. To use hand tools such as but not limited to shovels, pruning shears, and ladders. Duties may include but not limited to, weeding, thinning, and pruning,picking, cleaning, sorting,packing and handling harvested products. May set up, operate and repair farm machinery. Work is performed outdoors. Job requires workers to bend, stoop, and lift, on an occasional basis. Duties may require working off the ground at heights up to 20 ft using ladders or climbing. One months experience in apples only required.

CLERK

T-S-T BOCES.CBO has two F/T Temporary, under 90-day opportunities available assisting the tax collector at tax time. $13.88 per hour. Positions are available 8/23/17 up to 10/13/17 and 9/18/17 up to 11/08/17, depending on workload. Detailed job posting listed on the BOCES website: www.tstboces.organdCareerbuilder.co.Apply 8/04/17 at www. tompkinscountyny.gov/personnel TST BOSES, 555 WarrenRd/,Ithaca,NY 14850, Phone (607)257-1555,Fax: (607)697-8273, Email” hr@tstboces.org

Ithaca WebsIte DesIgn

Do you have a business? are you starting a business? Let Us help You!

Complete rebuilding services. No job too big or too small. Call us.

We have been in business since 1980 specializing in streaming audio and video. Our team of experts can build you a website with features such as search engine optimization, tracking web site visitors, listing on Facebook. Check us out on www.ithacawebsitedesign.com Call us at 607-272-9175 we are open Monday to Friday 9am. to answer your questions.

Ithaca Piano Rebuilders (607) 272-6547 950 Danby Rd., Suite 26

South Hill Business Campus, Ithaca, NY

I thaca Time s

Employment / Real Estate / Adoption: $59.00 first 15 words (minimum), 30 cents each additional word. Ads run 2 weeks.

Fax and Mail orders only

• Rebuilt • Reconditioned • Bought• Sold • Moved • Tuned • Rented

The

you only pay for 3 (Adoption, Merchandise or Housemates)

MERCHANDISE $100 - $500

PIANOS

25% Discount - Run your non-commercial ad for 4 consecutive weeks,

MERCHANDISE UNDER $100

320/Bulletin Board 245/Garage Sales

30 cents each additional word.

Internet: www.ithaca.com Mail: Ithaca Times Classified Dept PO Box 27 Ithaca NY 14850 In Person: Mon.-Fri. 9am-5pm 109 North Cayuga Street

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You Can PL Your Ads O ACE N at Ithaca.c LINE om

Line Ads: $18.50 for first 12 words (minimum),

| 59,200 Readers

FREE

Automotive

Ithaca Times Town & Country Classified Ad Rates

SERVICE DIRECTORY

GARAGE SALES

19. 25 words

per week / 13 week minimum

employment

DELIVERY PART-TIME

Route Driver needed for delivery of newspapers every Wednesday. Must be available 9am-1pm, have reliable transportation, and a good driving record. Call 277-7000

Horse Listeners Orchard LLC

Ellington, CT needs 3 temporary workers 8/2/2017 to 12/01/2017, work tools,supplies, equipment provided without cost to worker. Housing will be available without cost to workers who cannot reasonably return to their permanent residence at the end of the work day. Transportation reimbursement and subsistence provided upon completion of 15 days or 50% or the work contract. Work is guaranteed for 3/4 of the workdays during the contract period. $12.38 per hr. Applicants to apply contact CT Department of Labor at 860-263-6020. Or apply for the job at the nearest local office of the SWA. Job order #95020. Workers are expected to perform all activities related to cultural practices involved with the production of vegetables, tree fruit and small berries. Operation , care and maintenance is essential for the equipment used for this purpose. Work is often required in extremely hot and cold conditions. Work is physically challenging requiring workers to bend, stoop, lift and carry up to 50 pounds . Ladder work is an essential skill. 30 days experience in duties listed required.

Merrill Lynch

is looking for a part time (19 hours per week) Office Assistant for the Ithaca NY location. This role performs diverse, advanced and confidential administrative support functions. Interested individual please email inquires to: jennifer.l.arentsen@bankof america/ careers and search for the requisition number (17046064), then click “apply now” to complete the application process

The City of Ithaca

is accepting applications for the following exam: Database Specialist #62-092: Currently, there is one vacancy. Min. Quals: Visit website. Salary: $40,417. Applications Deadline: 8/31/17. Exam Date: 10/14/17. City of Ithaca HR Dept., 108 E. Green St., Ithaca, NY 14850 (607)274-6539 www.cityofithaca.org The City of Ithaca is an equal opportunity employer that is committed to diversifying its workforce

DONATE YOUR CAR

Wheels For Wishes Benefiting

Make-A-Wish® Central New York *Free Vehicle/Boat Pickup ANYWHERE *We Accept All Vehicles Running or Not *Fully Tax Deductible

WheelsForWishes.org

Call: (315) 400-0797

* Car Donation Foundation d/b/a Wheels For Wishes. To learn more about our programs or financial information, visit www.wheelsforwishes.org.

real estate

employment

adoptions

roommates

The City of Ithaca

is accepting applications for the following openings: Recreation Program Assistant: Currently, there is one vacancy. Min quals: Visit website. Salary: $31,004. Application deadline: 8/2/17. Lifeguard: Currently, there is one vacancy. Min Quals: visit website. Salary: $10.50$12.50/hour. Applications accepted until position is filled. City of Ithaca HR Dept., 108 E. Green St., Ithaca, NY 14850, (607)274-6539 www.cityofithaca.org The City of Ithaca is an equal opportunity employer that is committed to diversifying its workforce.

An Urban Forest Refuge

223 South Albany St. Offers Best Of Everything 520/Adoptions Wanted

720/Rooms Wanted

PREGNANT?

ALL AREAS - ROOMMATES.COM. Lonely? Bored? Broke? Find the perfect roommate to complement your personality and lifestyle at Roommates .com! (AAN CAN)

CONSIDERING ADOPTION? Call us first. Living Expenses, housing, medical, and continued support afterwards. Choose adoptive family of your choice. Call 24/7. 877-362-2401. (AAN CAN)

By Peg g y Haine

The City of Ithaca

is accepting applications for the following: Assistant Director of Technology #62-069: Currently, there is one vacancy in the Ithaca City School District. Min Quals: Visit Website. Salary: $63,500. Residency: Tompkins County or one of its 6 contiguous counties. Application Deadline: 8/2/17. Exam Date: 10/14/17. Youth Program Leader #69-173: Currently, there is one vacancy in the Youth Bureau. Min Quals: Visit website. Salary: $41,117. Residency: Tompkins County. Application Deadline: 9/14/17. Exam Date: 10/28/17. Laboratory Technician #64-817: Currently, there are two vacancies in the Dept. of Public Works. Min Quals: Visit website. Salary: $40,417. Residency: Tompkins County or one of its 6 contiguous counties. Application Deadline: 8/31/17. Exam Date: 10/14/17. Police Officer #60-793: Currently, there are four vacancies. Min Quals: Visit website. Salary: $44,891. Residency: Tompkins County or one of its 6 contiguous counties. Application Deadline: 10/19/17. Exam Date: 12/2/17. Office Assistant: Currently, there is one vacancy in the Planning Department. Min Quals: Visit website. Salary; $35,434. Residency: Tompkins County. Application Deadline: 8/9/17. City of Ithaca HR Dept, 108 E. Green St., Ithaca, NY 14850, (607)274-6539, www.cityofithaca.org The City of Ithaca is an equal opportunity employer that is committed to diversifying its workforce.

805/Business Services 610/Apartments

Brush Hogging

Apartment Wanted

Clear that field or trail to get outside and explore your world. Visit Sawitcoming. net or call 607-220-7242

Lower Collegetown

Four Seasons Landscaping Inc. 607.272.1504 Lawn maintenance, spring + fall clean up + gutter cleaning, patios, retaining walls, + walkways, landscape design + installation. Drainage. Snow Removal. Dumpster rentals. Find us on Facebook!

Need One Bedroom Apt. Country. Deposit 4312 voucher - dog allowed. 607-793-7312

1 Bedroom, Fall Occupancy, Furnished, Spacious, Large Rooms, Hardwood Floor, Quiet Building, eat Included, Reasonable Rent, Walk to Central Campus or Downtown, Available August 1st. CSP Management, 2776961. CSPManagement.com

Near Commons

Available Now Downtown 1 Bedroom in Historic Building. Intercom/Security/DW. Carpeted, Furnished, Bus near by. Heat Included. Carol, CSP Management, 277-6961. CSP Management.com

Handy Man Stone Walls, Walks, Repointing, Gardens, Weeds, Carpentry, George: 793-7312 - Save Number!

Hate Cleaning?

We love it! Reasonable rates, no job is to big; References available. Call: 607793-7313, 607-793-3452

695/Vacation OCEAN CITY, MARYLAND. Best selection of affordable rentals. Full / partial weeks. Call for FREE brochure. Open daily. Holiday Resort Services. 1-800638-2102. Online reservations: www. holidayoc.com 5% base rent discount - use code NYPS17, ends Sept. 1, 2017. (NYSCAN)

Saw it Coming

Portable sawmill service, making usable lumber from your very own logs. Visit us today at sawitcoming.net or call 607-220-7242

REPLACEMENT Vocalist/Musician WINDOWSI am looking to join or start a band. I am

REPLACEMENT experienced in mostly Country and Rock A FULL LINE OF VINYL Manufacture To Install& Roll! I live in Ithaca. Please contact me REPLACEMENT WINDOWS REPLACEMENT at 607-262-1818 Butch Perfetti WINDOWS We Do Call It forAll Free Estimate & WINDOWS VINYL Professional Installation A FULL LINE OF Custom made & manufactured AREPLACEMENT FULL LINE OF VINYL WINDOWS by… REPLACEMENT WINDOWS Call for Free Estimate & Call for Free Estimate & Professional Installation 3/54( Professional Installation Custom made & manufactured Custom made & manufactured 3%.%#! by… by… 6).9, 3/54( 3/54( 3%.%#! 3%.%#! 6).9,

6).9,

Romulus, NY 315-585-6050 or Toll Free at 866-585-6050

www.SouthSenecaWindows.com Romulus, NY Romulus, NY 315-585-6050 or 315-585-6050 Toll Free at 866-585-6050 or Toll Free at

866-585-6050

Ithaca’s only

hometown electrical distributor Your one Stop Shop

Since 1984 802 W. Seneca St. Ithaca 607-272-1711 fax: 607-272-3102 www.fingerlakeselectric.com

1040/Land for Sale GOT LAND

Our sportsmen will Pay Top $$$$ To hunt your land. Call for a Free Base Camp Leasing info packet & Quote. 1-866309-1507. www.BaseCampLeasing.com (NYSCAN)

HUDSON VALLEY LAND BARGINS

5 to 50 ACRES FROM $49,900! 20 MINS FROM ALBANY, 2 HRS GW BRIDGE! STONEWALLS, PRIVACY! TERMS Call 888-905-8847, NewYorkLandandLakes.com (NYSCAN)

223 S. Albany St. (Photo: Peggy Haine) ricked out in a subdued tri-color paint job, in hues of mustard, terra cotta and forest green, 223 South Albany Street is with cathedral ceilings, and a second full bath. a tasteful companion to its neighbors on the The rooms are separated by a nonloadbearing leafy 200 block of South Albany. The street has wall, which could be removed to create one huge its share of the maple and beech street trees that room. The larger of the two rooms has a cedarhelped earn Ithaca the moniker “Forest City” lined closet, and skylights connect sleepers with way back when, and the city continues to win the moon and stars. awards for its urban forestry program. But beTwo driveways (off-street parking!) lead to cause the leaf cover is so dense, the house looks a private backyard planted in a riot of brightly smaller than it actually is. Located in an R3a colored hostas, lilies, deep fuchsia bee balm, and zone it was once a duplex and could probably pink Echinacea, with tall ostrich ferns adding be one again, but it would be a pity to break up structure, all surrounding a patio large enough spacious luxuriousness of the place. for a table and chairs; al fresco meals can be Step inside and you’re surprised at both its served there, just a few steps from the kitchen. size and its woodsiness. The interior is nearly Off to one side of the yard is a good-size garden completely clad in pine, up to and including shed. With the installation of a bit of insulation, ceilings, with boards laid horizontally, and electric wattage, a window, and a rug, it could be lacquered to a pale honey tone. The interior is converted to a cozy writer’s shed or meditation bright, with lots of double-glazed, noise cancelstudio. Another great find for this property is a ing replacement windows. Skylights let in addipartially finished basement, with family room, tional dappled light and floors are light-colored laundry, plenty of storage, and yet another full hardwood throughout. bath. It’s deliciously close to Life’s So Sweet Entering off South Albany through a small Chocolates, New Delhi Diamond’s, Pizza porch onto the main floor, you see that the reAroma, and Hawi Ethiopian, home to some of mainder of the original porch has been incorpo- this writer’s favorite culinary indulgences. In one rated into the living room area, creating a kind more block you’re at the State Theatre and the of four-season sunroom and adding warm light Commons. Location, location, and location. to what might have been a dark interior room. A working fireplace and honey-colored horizon- Before you set foot in that first open tal pine board paneling make it a cozy winter house, prequalified for a mortgage retreat. To the right, a walk through a formal At get A Glance and know exactly what you can afford. dining room leads to a large, old-fashioned Price: $328,500 kitchen with a handsome six-burner gas stove Location: 223 S. Albany St. and a utilitarian stainless steel sink. Beyond We offer plenty of loan the kitchen is a bright three-season sunroom Ithaca, NY options and special programs for that looks out over the garden and patio and School District: Ithaca City School first-time homebuyers. provides a happy home for indoor plants. There District/Belle Sherman are also two pine-clad bedrooms and a full bath MLS#: 310803 on that floor. AndContact: decisionsMatthew take minutes, not days. Mullen Heading up a steep set of stairs wide enough Happy shopping.* Licensed Real Estate Broker to comfortably accommodate a chair elevator, you arrive at an aerie of major proportions. The Phone: 607.857.8336 entire upper floor is taken up by two bedrooms Apply online or talk to one of our

Mortgage Officers today.

Housemore shopping? than

100 years

Home is where the prequalified is. of mortgagemortgage experience

WATERFRONT CABIN SITE

5 AC - $79,900 Tiny unspoiled lake, private woodlands, utils. Stunning upstate NY Location! Terms avail. 888-479-3394 (NYSCAN)

in the Tompkins County region. 607-273-3210 T

I t h a c a Times

RE 5X1.5.indd h e 1

TompkinsTrust.com Member FDIC

July

* Loans subject to credit approval and to income and other qualifying guidelines.

2 6 –Augus t

1 ,

2 3/11/09 0 1 7

1:46:55 PM

BackPage

For rates and information contact Cyndi Brong at

L & T Masonry Construction

Papa Johns

Brick/Block concrete,

Load it up Special

waterproofing, chimneys

Any large pizza with up to

new or old all construction

5 toppings plus cheese

and masonry needs

only $12.00 with Community Cash Coupon

Free est. Call 607-279-5671

Regular $20.49 * Save $8.49

cbrong @ ithactimes.com

277-7000 p h o n e 277-1012 f a x

Affordable Acupuncture 4 Seasons

Full range of effective care for a full

Landscaping Inc.

range of human ailments

273-7272

Peaceful Spirit Acupuncture

607-272-1504

Anthony Fazio, L.Ac., C.A.

lawn maintenance

www.peacefulspiritacupuncture.com

spring + fall clean up + gutter cleaning

607-272-0114

Love dogs? Check out Cayuga Dog Rescue!

Protect Your Home

Adopt! Foster! Volunteer! Donate for vet care!

with a Camera Surveillance System

www.cayugadogrescue.org

Latest Technology. Affordable

www.facebook.com/CayugaDogRescue

Les - 607-272-9175

patios, retaining walls, + walkways landscape design + installation

* BUYING RECORDS *

drainage

LPs 45s 78s ROCK JAZZ BLUES

snow removal

PUNK REGGAE ETC

Men’s and Women’s Alterations

Ship for Less

dumpster rentals

Angry Mom Records

for over 20 years

10% OFF any Service

Find us on Facebook!

115 The Commons Basement

Fur & Leather repair, zipper repair.

319-4953 angrymomrecords@gmail.com

Same Day Service Available

5.00 OFF any $25 purchase or more at Ithaca Ace Hardware Kitchen & Bath Center

“CLEAR IT OUT”

John’s Tailor Shop

Basements, Barns, Garages & etc.

John Serferlis - Tailor

Reliable and Affordable

Triphammer Market Place

273-3192

Call 387-4190 water1945@live.com

607-379-6210

“Such a positive force in my life!” Want in? Visit our studio today! Start with 30 Days of

STRESS REDUCTION

RESIDENTIAL & COMMERCIAL

ALL ABOUT MACS

Triphammer Market Place

MINDFULNESS-BASED

Independence Cleaners Corp

AAM

Trip Pack N Ship

102 The Commons

Richard F. Vogt

607-319-4002

with Community Cash Coupon

UNLIMITED Yoga for $30!

Janitorial Service * Floor/Carpet

at Island & Fitness

Macintosh Consulting

High Dusting * Windows/Awnings

in partnership with Cayuga Medical Center

MIGHTY YOGA

http://www.allaboutmacs.com

24/7 CLEANING Services

Free Orientation Sat. Sept. 9, 1:30pm

Voted Best of Ithaca

(607) 280-4729

607-227-3025

Reserve your seat: 279-4769, nickboyar.com

Visit www.mightyyoga.com, 272-0682

This week at GreenStar we have 3,939 local products...

like organic peaches from Good Life Farm.

LOCATED 15.4 miles

from GREENSTAR

www.greenstar.coop We deﬁne local as products or services that are produced or owned within 100 miles of GreenStar. 28

The

I thaca Time s

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