At Alternatives Federal Credit Union, we don’t just bank—we compete to create a fairer, more inclusive financial future. Since our founding in 1979 in Ithaca, NY, we’ve been driven by a singular mission: to combat systemic financial exclusion and empower those left behind by traditional banking. As a certified Community Development Financial Institution (CDFI), we’re not here to chase profits. We’re here to make a significant impact, putting people first and building a just economy through education, access, and economic justice.
Why Alternatives?
Education as the Foundation
We believe financial freedom starts with knowledge. That’s why financial education is the cornerstone of everything we do. From free one-on-one counseling to workshops and ongoing support, we equip our members with the tools to navigate their financial journeys with confidence. Whether you’re building credit, planning for homeownership, or launching a business, our education-backed approach ensures you’re not just borrowing—you’re building a stronger future.
Reinvesting in Our Community
As a member-owned credit union, every deposit you make with Alternatives is reinvested locally. Your money doesn’t just sit in a vault—it fuels economic growth, supports small businesses, and builds generational wealth right here in our community. This cycle of reinvestment is how we create lasting, significant change, ensuring that every dollar works toward a more equitable future.
Choosing Alternatives Federal Credit Union means choosing a partner that fights for your success. Our competitive spirit pushes us to innovate and deliver solutions that matter. Our focus on serving our members at the highest level possible ensures that every step we take has a purpose: to empower you, strengthen our community, and build a financial system that leaves no one behind. Join us in banking with purpose—because together, we can achieve something truly extraordinary.
Tailored Solutions, Real Impact
Our services are designed to meet real-life needs. We offer personalized support for credit building, guiding members toward financial stability with clear, actionable advice. Aspiring homeowners receive step-by-step assistance, grounded in education, to make their dreams a reality. For entrepreneurs, our business services—including loans, guidance, and tools—focus on sustainable growth, helping local businesses thrive and contribute to a vibrant economy.
Leading with Purpose
Our commitment to a just economy goes beyond services—it’s a movement. By focusing on education, access, and economic justice, we’re not just helping individuals; we’re transforming communities. Our upcoming articles will dive deeper into programs like the FAIR Mortgage and TransAction, both built on the pillars of education, equity, and inclusion. These initiatives reflect our relentless drive to compete for a better financial system—one that works for everyone.
State Awards $435K to Support Summer Jobs for Tompkins County Youth
By Maddy Vogel
Over 100 Tompkins County youth will be connected with summer employment opportunities thanks to annual state funding to support Tompkins County’s Summer Youth Employment Program (SYEP).
The funding totaling $56.5 million statewide was included in New York State Gov. Kathy Hochul’s budget and will come from the State Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance. The annual funding assists all New York State counties by supporting programs that help at-risk youth enter the workforce.
The Summer Youth Employment Program provides jobs to underserved youth ages 14 to 20 during a six- to eight-week window from July to September based on income eligibility. Youth are paired with local organizations by the Tompkins County Workforce Development Board and the Ithaca Youth Bureau.
Last year, SYEP connected 118 youth with summer employment, said Christopher R. Sponn, executive director of the Workforce Development Board.
“The whole point of the program is to give youth that first job opportunity that they’re looking for, and also bring in money to their families during the summertime,” Sponn said. “It’s hard for anyone to look for a job, but especially if you’re young and just starting out, it’s hard to
find opportunities on your own.”
Sponn said that the program helps youth beyond finding a job by offering workshops and teaching financial literacy.
“I think it’s really important that youth have a well-rounded year,” Sponn said. “The summer is a critical time for them to grow, learn more about themselves and what they want to do in their career. This experience gives them an opportunity to do a test-run and see what they like and what they don’t like, and what they want to work toward.”
SYEP also supports local businesses. The majority of the program’s funding goes to
T ake n ote
youth wages, allowing businesses who participate in the program little-to-no costs.
“They’re able to take advantage of the creative energy and the different perspectives that the youth bring into their workplace everyday,” Sponn said.
Tompkins County received $435,842 for the program, comparable to last year’s funding despite county concerns that the program could’ve been affected by federal cuts.
“Investing in our young people’s future
Continued on Page 11
X Tompkins Cortland Community College Welcomes Applicants to Its Board of Trustees
By Varsha Bhargava
Tompkins County residents are invited to apply for a Tompkins Cortland Community College (TC3) Board of Trustees position which has influence in supporting and shaping higher education in the county.
The Tompkins County Legislature will appoint one candidate to fill a Board vacancy beginning on July 1. The position is open to any interested county residents — minorities, women, individuals with disabilities and veterans are strongly encouraged to apply. Applications are due June 16. The member will serve a seven-year term, attending mandatory monthly board and committee meetings.
The TC3 Board “provides governance of the college’s operations,” according to a statement by Monika Salvage, communications director of the Tompkins County Administration. Some of the Board’s responsibilities include appointing the college’s president and approving curricula, budgets, tuition and fees.
“Participation as a Trustee on the Tompkins Cortland Community College Board is a meaningful opportunity to help shape the educational future of generations to come and advance economic and social vitality in our community,” Legislator Michael Lane (D-Dryden) wrote in a Monday statement. How to apply
County residents should complete an Advisory Board Application form to indicate interest. To access the form, visit the Clerk of the Legislature office at the Governor Daniel D. Tompkins Building (Old Court House), 121 E. Court Street, Ithaca or download it electronically.
Applications may be dropped off at the Clerk of the Legislature office, mailed to the Clerk of the Legislature, emailed to legislature@tompkins-co.org or faxed to 607-274-5430 by the end of day on June 16. Interviews begin in late June. Varsha Bhargava is a reporter at the Ithaca Times and a news editor at The Cornell Daily Sun working on The Sun’s summer fellowship.
ON THE COVER:
Members of the Ithaca Teachers Union marched from Boynton Middle School to Ithaca High School last Thursday to show solidarity as the union approaches their final negotiations. (Photo: Nathan Ellison/Sun Fellow at the Ithaca Times)
Visit our website at www.ithaca.com for more news, arts, sports and photos. Call us at 607-277-7000
M addy V ogel , M anaging E ditor E ditor @ ithacatim E s com
M att d ougherty , a ssistant E ditor E ditor @ ithacatim E s com C hris i bert , C al E ndar E ditor a rts @ ithacatim E s com l orien t yne , n E ws r E port E r r E port E r @ ithacatim E s com M ark s y V ertson , p hotograph E r s te V
J i M b ilinski , p ublish E r E ME ritus jbilinski @ ithacatim E s com l arry h o C hberger , p ublish E r x 1214 larry @ ithacatim E s com
s C ott M anson , a sso C iat E p ublish E r F r EE lan CE rs : Barbara Adams, G. M Burns, Jane Dieckmann, Charley Githler, Ross Haarstad, Steve Lawrence, Marjorie Olds, Henry Stark, and Peter Rothbart
Tompkins County's Summer Youth Employment Program connected 118 underserved youth with summer employment last year. (Photo: Provided/Tompkins County Workforce Development)
IN UIRING PHOTOGR PHER Q A
By Mark Syvertson
QUESTION OF THE WEEK:
“IT ’ S STARTING TO FEEL LIKE SUMMER AND THERE ’ S ONLY A FEW WEEKS OF SCHOOL LEFT. WHAT ARE YOU EXCITED TO DO ON YOUR SUMMER VACATION?”
“Going to the beach.” – Tomo
“Yeah, going to the beach.” – Hero
“Playing on the slip-and-slide.”
– Malcolm
“Swimming. And going on the carousel. And ice cream with rainbow sprinkles.”
– Riis
“I’m
Tompkins County Legislature Passes Resolution to Allow Tax Levy Override
By Lorien Tyne
The Tompkins County legislature passed a local law June 3 that allows the county to override the state-imposed tax levy limit for the 2026 fiscal year in case of financial necessity.
Introduced by former Governor Andrew Cuomo and passed in 2011, the New York State property tax cap law created a limit on the increase of property taxes levied by local governments and school districts by 2% annually or at the rate of inflation. In recent years, the tax cap has been calculated by taxing entities to be above 2% due to the rising Consumer Price Index (CPI).
The local law needed nine votes to pass and was adopted in a roll call vote 10-3 after about 35 minutes of discussion. Legislators Lee Shurtleff (D-9), Mike Sigler (D-6) and Greg Mezey (D-13) voted against the resolution. The resolution is a precautionary measure and does not mean that there will be any definite changes to the tax levy.
“The tax cap override resolution is an insurance policy. The best insurance is the insurance you never use, and that’s how I think about the tax cap override.”
— Tompkins County Legislature Chair Dan Klein
Last year, at the beginning of June, the legislature failed to pass the local law allowing a tax cap override in an 8-4 vote
against it. However, one legislator was absent from the meeting, and at the following meeting, the resolution was reintroduced and passed. Legislature Chair Dan Klein said via email that in his 12-year time on the legislature, the resolution has passed every year, but the
Upstate New York Math Team Places at Annual Math Competition
By Varsha Bhargava
Clad in striking blue and yellow t-shirts, 32 student mathletes from Upstate New York, including six from Ithaca, competed in the American Regions Mathematics League (ARML) competition on May 31.
Over 128 teams and 1800 students competed in this year’s ARML math competition, which welcomes students from across the globe and is held at multiple locations.
The 32 Upstate New York competitors comprise the Upstate New York Math Team, led by Japheth Wood, a math professor at Bard College. This year, the math team competed at the Pennsylvania State University location, where they fielded two main teams and two alternates.
Out of 52 teams in the B division, the Upstate New York B1 team earned 13th place and the Upstate New York B2 team earned 37th place. The team’s alternates, the Alternates PSU 1 team, earned second place in the alternates division out of nine teams.
Representing Ithaca, seventh grader Polly You, ninth graders Eafan Chen and Benjamin You, 10th grader Moshe Lundgren-Lahav and 12th graders Taran Knutson and Celene Sahoo made the trip to Pennsylvania. In a Friday statement, Wood wrote that the students from Ithaca played a “vital role” in the team’s success.
“We are incredibly proud of all our students’ dedication and their impres-
sive performance at ARML,” Wood wrote. “They’ve showcased not only their strong mathematical abilities but also their commitment to teamwork and problemsolving at a national level.”
Varsha Bhargava is a reporter at the Ithaca Times and a news editor at The Cornell Daily Sun working on The Sun’s summer fellowship.
– Mira
excited to go to horse camp this summer.”
The Tompkins County Legislature passed a local law which will allow them to override the New York State tax cap later in budget season during their Tuesday, June 3 meeting. (Photo: Tompkins County/file)
The Upstate New York Math Team at the American Regions Mathematics League competition. (Photo: Provided)
Audit of NYSEG Finds Billing Issues, Leadership Conflicts
By Maddy Vogel
In a recent audit released by the New York Public Service Commission (PSC), auditors identified management, security and operations issues with Rochester Gas and Electric Corp. (RG&E) and New York State Electric & Gas Corp. (NYSEG), the primary electric and gas provider for Tompkins County residents.
e audit was commissioned in September 2023, and PSC released its ndings last month. NorthStar Consulting Group, a third party auditor, made 128 recommendations to Avangrid, the holding company of NYSEG and RG&E.
e recommendations require NYSEG and RG&E to le implementation plans within 30 days a er May 19. In a release, PSC said a sta review of “information concerning the utilities’ recent operations” sparked the Department of Public Service to issue a notice of apparent violations (NOAV) to the companies.
NYSEG serves nearly 1 million electricity customers and over 270,000 natural gas customers across upstate New York. Recently, Tompkins County legislators and Rep. Josh Riley (NY-19) have called for independent audits of NYSEG billing practices a er receiving complaints of skyrocketing NYSEG bills from constituents.
e most recent audit released by the PSC is separate from these calls for investigation, although in its NOAV, the Department of Public Service alleges violations concerning the maintenance of customer billing records and billing procedures.
“The scope of this audit focused on ways to provide value to NYSEG’s and RG&E’s customers, while also reviewing core utility operations,” said PSC Chair Rory M. Christian. “Department staff also identified certain audit findings and other information that certain company practices may be violations of Commission regulations or orders; the companies will now have an opportunity to respond to Staff’s contentions.”
e NOAV also alleged con icts of interest on NYSEG’s and RG&E’s boards, noting that some of their directors also serve as o cers or directors of unregulated a liate companies.
In an Audit released last month, NorthStar Consulting Group identified several areas of concern regarding management, billing and operations practices at Rochester Gas and Electric Corp. and New York State Electric & Gas Corp. (Photo: Mark Syvertson/Ithaca Times file)
Several of the issues identi ed in the audit stemmed from the corporate structure of Avangrid’s ownership of NYSEG and RG&E. e audit claimed that there is limited transparency with funding allocations because the two companies receive goods and services from 13 corporate a liates.
“It really is like a runaway train, and there’s absolutely no checks and balances here. I think it’s important for us to have a utility [company] that actually returns people's calls, that’s easy to get on the phone with, and that’s actually hearing our concerns.”
— Shawna Black, Tompkins County Legislator
The audit found that incentive payouts for company executives are “subjective.” Because Avangrid doesn't develop operational plans tied to company performance goals, incentives aren't based on actual goal achievement. The auditor recommended a third-party review of the NYSEG and RG&E CEO performance. Security was also a concern of the
UPS DOWNS&
Ups
In HomeToGo’s Taste of Summer Index, Ithaca is ranked as the #3 overall destination to satisfy both wanderlust and tastebuds. It shines with a perfect score in the Rising Star category thanks to its farm-to-table gourmet dining and vineyard aesthetic. Ithaca shows a year-over-year search trend of +349%.
Downs
A communication from Congressman Josh Riley’s o ce estimates that up to 5,100 Tompkins County residents may lose Medicaid coverage if the House passes budget reconciliation bill becomes law.
HEARD SEEN&
Heard
The Special Olympics of New York are still in need of volunteers for the annual State Summer Games, happening on June 20 and 21 at Ithaca College. More than 1,200 athletes and coaches from throughout the state host competitions in seven sports: Basketball, Bowling, Powerlifting, Swimming, Track & Field, Tennis, and Volleyball. Learn more at www.specialolympics-ny.org
audit. Despite cost increases, Avangrid’s cyber security program “is not maturing as it should,” according to the PSC’s release. e auditor recommended improving cyber security and better oversight on security performance metrics.
In its 2023 Electric Reliability Performance Report, the Department of Public Services reported that although NYSEG signi cantly decreased its outage frequency compared to previous years, it had the most frequent outages among the state’s electric service providers.
NorthStar Consulting Group said NYSEG’s poor reliability was exacerbated by Avangrid’s underspending on asset management. e audit said NYSEG’s asset management system, which uses spreadsheets for tracking, is outdated.
Avangrid’s customer service performance reports have also been inaccurate, according to the audit. e auditor found that the company doesn’t have strong systems in place to manage customer service outsourcing and recommended that Avangrid nd the cause of its increasing call center costs.
NYSEG will now have to respond to alleged violations contained in the NOAV and their implementation plan to address concerns cited by the auditor will be submitted for public comment.
Seen
This Saturday, June 14, is Flag Day — a holiday traditionally honoring American patriotism and national unity. But in Ithaca and across the country, “No Kings” protests are being organized this year to oppose President Trump’s growing concentration of executive power, as he stages a massive military parade in Washington, D.C. that coincides with both his birthday and the 250th anniversary of the U.S. Army.
IF YOU CARE TO RESPOND to something in this column, or suggest your own praise or blame, write editor@ithacatimes. com, with a subject head “U&D.”
QUESTION OF THE WEEK
Should the City of Ithaca create a full-time unarmed responder unit or prioritize filling gaps in existing programs? 367% Yes.
No.
I don’t care. N EXT W EEK ’S Q UESTION :
Do you think community engagement with our local police has improved over the last couple of years?
Visit ithaca.com to submit your response.
LETTERS TO THE EDITOR
RE: Cornell & ICSD
“Regarding the 6/4 article titled "ICSD Partners With Cornell On Enrollment, School Consolidation, District Properties." Some questions for Cornell and ICSD.
To Cornell: Rather than charge our troubled school district $93,000, why not donate this study as a gesture of goodwill? This gesture would go a long way to improving the relationship between Cornell and its host city. Due to Cornell's tax-exempt status, Cornell agrees to pay $650.000 of the ICSD 2025-2026 budget of $ 169 M. Deduct the $93.000 fee for the study and Cornell pays $557.000 to our district. The school budget is a continuing, unsustainable burden for Ithaca homeowners and landlords (and it follows for tenants).
To ICSD: Why hire Cornell, rather than a more neutral third party for the study? Might CU have a vested interest in purchasing some of the properties? Might
a private purchaser receive a tax abatement for any of the ICSD properties? This would further burden taxpayers? Asking for a friend.” — Lee Rogers
“ Somehow the statement in bold with the quotation by school board member, Todd Fox about recognizing the difficulties of citizens being overtaxed, teachers being underpaid, and looking for ways to address this, seems counter intuitive to the paragraph stating that ICSD will pay the Cornell Population Center and the Division of Budget and Planning $93,000 to compile data about the problem. How is that about saving money?” — Janet Locke
RE: Endorsement of Irene Weiser for County Legislature
“Irene Weiser is hands down the best candidate for County Legislature, District 13, at this time of extensive turnover. Caroline and Danby need a seasoned leader who responds to the needs of her constituents, who works readily with complex budgets, and has a proven record of negotiating thorny issues at the town, county, and state levels.
During her nine years on Caroline's Town Board, Irene led with compassion in response to family needs and business concerns. She fought against fracking, spearheaded the County's response to declining ambulance service, and sup-
ported youth and social services. A champion of the environment and sustainable energy, Irene has steadfastly steered the statewide push against runaway NYSEG charges for which I recently heard Congressman Josh Riley express his gratitude.
A deeply ethical leader, Irene is a candidate of care who has an uncanny talent at translating her neighbors' concerns and needs into concrete solutions. Irene Weiser brings to the table the experience, character, and values the County most needs at this challenging moment.” — Tim Murray, Deputy Supervisor, Town of Caroline
“Irene Weiser has the qualities that I want to see in a county legislator — she's a fierce advocate, a strong communicator, and she understands how to implement effective public policy.
I am particularly familiar with her efforts to stop cryptomining, an activity that uses an exorbitant amount of energy. Irene took a complex topic, researched it, and presented it in a way that the general public could understand. She worked with Assemblymember Anna Kelles' office to help craft legislation, and then rallied hundreds of environmental activists from across the state to get the bill passed. She's done the same on other important topicsviolence against women, emergency medical service provision, and CO2 fracking.
I want a legislator who has the demonstrated ability and courage to tackle tough, complex issues and develop solutions that improve people's lives. That's why I'm encouraging my neighbors to vote for Irene Weiser to represent Caroline and Danby on the Tompkins County Legislature. Election day is June 24th but early voting starts June 14th.” — Emily Adams, Brooktondale
RE: Endorsement of Pierre Saint-Perez for Tompkins County Legislature
In the June 24th primary, Democratic voters on East and South Hills will elect a candidate who almost certainly will win the District Three Legislative Seat in November. Experience, character and a deep knowledge of local and county government make Pierre SaintPerez the best candidate to fill the seat. Pierre grew up in Ithaca and attended local public schools. He graduated from Carnegie Mellon, where his concentrations included science, technology and public policy, and from Cornell Law School. Along the way, Pierre compiled a record of public service, acting as the student representative to the Ithaca School Board, working in political
campaigns and most recently, serving as a Ward Three City Council member. Pierre serves as the Council liaison to the County Legislature, the Town Board and the Climate Justice Commission. He understands how the City of Ithaca, our villages and towns and the County must work together to meet the challenges of the housing crisis, climate change and an increasingly problematic federal government. His guiding light has been service to his constituents and Ithaca.
Pierre also will bring a unique personal perspective to the Legislature. The son of Indian and Venezuelan emigrants, he is a proud birthright citizen. He is keenly aware of the challenges and threats faced by many of our neighbors. As a Latino-Asian-American, Pierre will provide tangible representation to groups that now comprise more than 10 percent of Tompkins County population.
Pierre listens. Pierre acts. Join us in voting for Pierre Saint-Perez on June 24th.” — Nick Salvatore
Speak Out Over and Over Again to Defend Our Democracy
“We are the Women’s Political Action Group, launched by a group of mostly retired teachers in 2016. We are guided by the principles laid out in the Declaration of Independence— that all people are endowed with certain inalienable rights: Life, Liberty, and the Pursuit of Happiness.
We are living through extraordinary times that call for bold and collective action. That’s why we are reaching out to the public with this open letter. Below are just a few ways these fundamental rights are under threat:
Life: The current administration is endangering the lives of millions by proposing cuts to Medicaid.
Liberty: Our civil liberties are at risk as the administration seeks to undermine the right to challenge unjust detention and imprisonment.
Pursuit of Happiness: True happiness relies on the ability to support ourselves and our families. Yet, this administration is slashing jobs and threatening social security, undermining the stability of countless individuals and communities. We urge you—individuals, organizations, and fellow citizens—to raise your voices. Together, we must stand up and speak out over and over to defend our democracy.” — Karen Adams, Women's Political Action Group WG
Claiming Downtown’s Potential
Lifelong Local David Durrett Keeps County Connected Through News
By Lorien Tyne
EDITOR'S NOTE:
This is the third of a series of pieces that will introduce the public to the people who keep the Ithaca Times running after more than half a century in circulation.
Not many people can say they put together five different newspapers each week. David Durrett, however, is the primary writer and editor of the Finger Lakes Community Newspapers, which include the Trumansburg Free Press, the Interlaken Review, the Ovid Gazette, The News Chronicle and Tompkins Independent.
By Nan Rohrer
As a child growing up on a farm in rural Pennsylvania, going Downtown was always an adventure. Downtown Lancaster was where you could shop, dine, see a show, or just spend time with friends. When I was old enough, I would ride the bus alone to visit the library and later meet my mom after work to explore the attractions together. These early experiences of being part of something bigger led me to a career in downtown management and community development. I wanted others to enjoy these dynamic spaces full of character and community.
Downtown Ithaca—like downtowns across the country—is a unique and vital part of our city and region. Yet, like many other downtowns, it is also in a time of transition, faced with challenges and clear opportunities. Defining the future of this core district will require the full engagement of city, county, and state leaders—as well as residents, business owners, developers, and our higher education partners. Despite decades of urban decline and suburban migration beginning in the mid-20th century, downtowns have shown remarkable resilience. Revitalization and preservation efforts since the 1980s reaffirmed their cultural and economic importance. The COVID 19 pandemic then accelerated many changes already underway: remote work dimin-
ished demand for office space; commercial buildings are being converted for other purposes; the need for affordable downtown housing has grown; and people increasingly seek “15-minute cities” where essentials are within a short walk or bike ride. Downtowns are increasingly where communities seek out immersive and unique experiences not easily replicated in the suburbs—from locally-owned shops and restaurants, to cultural events, community festivals and markets.
The Downtown Ithaca Alliance was established by community leaders nearly 30 years ago to serve as the primary organization to champion the revitalization, development, promotion, and management of Downtown Ithaca and what is defined as the Business Improvement District (BID), encompassing 22 square blocks of Downtown Ithaca.
Our services include maintaining a clean, green, and welcoming environment; supporting those looking to start or grow their business Downtown; organizing a variety of seasonal events to draw visitors; and marketing Downtown as a desirable place to live, work, invest, and visit often.
Our ultimate goal is to improve Downtown quality of life and create the conditions that attract new residents, businesses, restaurants, artists, and investors.
Continued on Page 11
Durrett’s parents moved to Ithaca when his father got a job at Cornell University as a professor. Not long after, Durrett was born and has lived in Ithaca all his life. His deep knowledge and love of the area have been significant strengths as a local journalist. He began his journalism journey in high school, working for The Tattler, Ithaca High School’s studentrun newspaper. His column, “Vices and Virtues,” asked teachers about their vices (Gluttony, Sloth, Wrath, Envy, Avarice, Lust) and virtues (Hope, Charity, Justice, Faith, Fortitude, Prudence). Durrett also wrote other articles and eventually became the Proofs Editor.
The summer after his sophomore year of high school, Durrett interned with The Ithaca Journal, where he typed in letters to the editor, briefs and calendar items and later on wrote articles and proofread stories. Then was when Durrett truly decided the newsroom was the right fit for him.
At Ithaca College, Durrett studied journalism and worked for the college’s newspaper, The Ithacan. When Durrett graduated, he initially struggled to find work because it was 2009, right smack in the middle of the Great Recession. Online journalism and other factors were also contributing to the decline of print media, but he was able to get a temporary job at the Ithaca Journal as a news assistant.
“My workload was heavy, I had a lot to get through on every given day, and at times, it seemed as though I would never get a reporting position,” Durrett said. “However, doing briefs and proofreading
Durrett is the Editor of the Finger Lakes Community Newspapers, helping ensure that the Ithaca Times' five sister newspapers (the Trumansburg Free Press, the Interlaken Review, the Ovid Gazette, The News Chronicle and Tompkins Independent) hit the newsstands every Wednesday. (Photo: Nathan Ellison/ Sun Fellow at the Ithaca Times)
required keen attention to detail and was practice that served me well in this position, even if it may not seem as glamorous as reporting.”
He worked for a time as a special projects employee for Momentum Media and a temporary data assistant for Cornell University’s Johnson School of Business's Activity Insight team. His reporting work has also been published in the Ithaca Voice and Tompkins Weekly.
Durrett applied to be the editor of Finger Lakes Community Newspapers in late 2022 when his predecessor, Jaime Cone left the paper. When Durrett is not in the Ithaca Times office surrounded by stacks of newspapers or out and about covering local municipalities, he enjoys reading, writing, watching movies and going for walks. At the end of each day, he unwinds with a book or a Sudoku puzzle.
Generally, his responsibilities have stayed the same since he was hired, shifting slightly after Andrew Sullivan, former sports reporter and editor of Tompkins Independent, left in the summer of 2023.
“Having long sought the position of an editor, I was pleased when I got it, seeing it as an opportunity that effectively uses my writing and editorial skills, and allows me to help report on key issues for the people who live in the communities I serve,” Durrett said.
David
Nan Roher is the CEO of the Downtown Ithaca Alliance. Roher, alongside other downtown leaders and business owners, are calling on the City of Ithaca to take action to address public safety concerns for downtown residents and visitors. (Photo: Nathan Ellison/Sun Fellow at the Ithaca Times)
With 1 Bargaining Session Left, Ithaca Teachers and District Administration Remain Divided Over Salary Structure
By Maddy Vogel
Since January, members of the Ithaca Teachers Association (ITA) have been negotiating their next contract with the Ithaca City School District (ICSD). Following dozens of hours of bargaining sessions, the negotiating teams have agreed on some issues but still struggle to compromise on key union demands.
The union held a rally Thursday afternoon, with a large crowd of teachers and community members who marched from Boynton Middle School to Ithaca High School, leading chants and holding signs showing their support for Ithaca’s teachers.
The march was one of the union’s most visible calls for district leadership to recognize union demands during contract negotiations, drawing a crowd of approximately 200 people who gathered outside of York Hall prior to the start of the union’s second-to-last bargaining session.
“Thursday’s session was a huge positive step forward,” said ITA President Kathryn Cernera. “We were so happy to see so many of our members engaging in the process and we know that that really made an impression on the district. We are feeling good about the progress we made on Thursday, and we are incredibly optimistic that this Thursday will be the day that we can reach a tentative agreement — if the district is feeling the same way.”
“Our membership has told us that we are not walking away from that table without a system of step-and-lane in some form. [...] We’re not going to leave without getting what our membership needs.”
This year, ITA and ICSD livestreamed bargaining sessions for the first time to address calls for transparency and boost community engagement. Dozens of ITA members were present at Thursday’s session.
If the union and district don’t reach an agreement on Thursday, they can choose to schedule more negotiation sessions or can declare impasse, issuing a formal statement that declares negotiations are unlikely to reach a resolution. Although teachers operate on 10-month contracts and are not paid during the summer, union leaders said they are prepared to continue bargaining while working on an expired contract.
— Jacob Chapin, co-chair of ITA’s Contract Action Team
Thursday’s rally was a way to showcase the union membership’s engagement in ongoing negotiations, said Jacob Chapin, cochair of ITA’s Contract Action Team.
The current ITA contract, which took effect on July 1, 2019, expires on June 30 with one remaining bargaining session on Thursday, June 12. Salary, parental leave, healthcare coverage and protections against artificial intelligence remain unresolved between the ITA and the district, yet union leaders remain hopeful that Thursday’s negotiations could result in a tentative agreement.
“We’re getting close to the finish line, and we’re here to show our solidarity as unions,” Chapin said. “All of these discussions are what impact everyone that works here.”
Union leaders say ICSD is in a teacher retention crisis due to an inequitable salary structure. Administrators, however, have attributed high turnover rates to a national teacher shortage.
According to ITA, ICSD’s turnover rate was 18% in 2024, with over 100 employees
ITA members and supporters attending Thursday ’ s rally marched from Boynton Middle School to Ithaca High School, leading chants and holding signs showing support for teachers. (Photo: Mark Syvertson/Ithaca Times)
leaving — higher than the 12% national average and the 14% state average. During Thursday’s bargaining session, union leaders noted that while 83% of members were tenured a decade ago, only 57% are tenured today.
“Our students deserve stability, our community deserves better [and] our educators deserve to stay,” said ITA Vice President David Isley.
lane salary structure, one of the union’s demands for its new contract.
“Our students deserve stability, our community deserves better [and] our educators deserve to stay.”
— ITA Vice President David Isley
ICSD’s salary structure has led to hundreds of teachers being “leapfrogged,” according to union leadership. Leapfrogging is when a newly hired teacher earns a higher salary than a veteran teacher with equal or more years of experience.
“There is a bit of a philosophical difference going on between us and the ICSD admin[istration],” Chapin said. “Right now we have people with wildly different salaries based on when they got hired.”
ITA says this is because ICSD lacks a step-and-
A step-and-lane salary structure would place teachers with the same years of experience and credits at the same salary, regardless of when they were hired. The ITA said that 26 of 34 neighboring school districts use a step-and-lane system, including Horseheads, South Seneca, Trumansburg, Dryden and Corning.
In ITA’s current proposal, there would be an average annual increase of 7% to overall salaries over the next four years.
In previous negotiations, ICSD administration defended its current structure, saying it reviews leapfrogged teachers and salary concerns on a case-by-case basis.
“As a teacher, I’m really thinking about the kids on a daily basis and what’s in their best interest. I think some of the negotiations are really going to benefit the children in a lot of ways.”
— Audrey Hopkins, ITA member and pre-K teacher at Beverly J. Martin Elementary School
ITA said that in their most recent membership vote in May, 89% of members said they do not want the negotiating team to agree to a contract without
Union leaders say that ICSD ’ s current salary structure leads to “ leapfrogging, ” when a newly hired teacher earns a higher salary than a veteran teacher with equal or more years of experience.
(Photo: Nathan Ellison/Sun Fellow at the Ithaca Times)
The rally, which drew a crowd of over 200 ITA members, took place ahead of the union and district bargaining session on Thursday. The march was the union ’ s largest event so far in the contract negotiations. (Photo: Mark Syvertson/Ithaca Times)
a step-and-lane system in place.
“Our membership has told us that we are not walking away from that table without a system of step-and-lane in some form,” Chapin said. “Step-and-lane needs to be the way. We will drag this into summer if we have to. [...] We’re not going to leave without getting what our membership needs.”
Chapin said that step-and-lane is an industry standard for teachers. It was once used in the district but was bargained away in the 1970s.
Other teachers who attended the rally agreed that step-and-lane needs to be in place in the new contract.
The Ithaca Teachers Association said in recent negotiations that 26 of 34 neighboring school districts use a step-and-lane system, including Horseheads, South Seneca, Trumansburg, Dryden and Corning. The system is a key demand for their new contract.
(Photo: Mark Syvertson/Ithaca Times)
A New Starting Point
Seniors Are at eir Personal Best in Empire State Senior Games
By Steve Lawrence
Many athletes look forward to turning “the Big 5-0” so they can take part in the Empire State Senior Games, and the list of activities continues to grow and now includes cornhole and pickleball,
ere are also a dozen or so more traditional events — like race walking, cycling, disc golf, long course golf, tennis, table tennis, track and eld, volleyball, shu eboard, badminton, bowling, archery and swimming, and the age groups start at 50-54, go up in ve-year increments with the 95 + group featuring the most seasoned athletes.
My buddy Joe Ryan took a shot at reinventing himself this year, signing up for the Senior Games as a 60-64 swimmer. I asked Joe what prompted his return to competitive swimming a er many decades away, and he said, “I was one of
eight kids, and my mother and three of my sisters were pretty good competitive swimmers.”
Joe swam in age-group meets, was on the YMCA team in high school, competed for a year in college, and says, “Swimming was my sport.” He taught lessons in his twenties, and in his mid-40s, got back into swimming a few times a week and a er turning 50, he entered several Masters meets. Some shoulder problems and poolrelated allergies caused him to “dri away for a few years.”
is January, Ryan made a resolution to swim seriously for four months, and “make it interesting.” He added, “I decided to pay attention to my technique and mechanics, see if I could get a little faster and nd ways to make it last over the long haul.”
Heading into the Senior Games, Joe told me, “ ey sent out a list of sixty swimmers — 25 women and 35 men — all
Stay connected to your care team with eGuthrie
Experience excellence with Guthrie’s fully customized MyChart experience. eGuthrie is free and convenient, helping you manage your care at home, work or on the road.
• Schedule appointments
• Message your provider
• View test results
• Request prescription renewals
• View upcoming appointments and procedures
• Add your name to a wait list for earlier appointment times
• Have a virtual visit
• Check walk-in wait times
All these features are available online and through the eGuthrie app for Apple and Android devices.
Get started today at www.eGuthrie.org.
over 50. When he picked up his “meet kit,” the ID badge, T-shirt and other swag, he “met the woman who is clearly the face of the meet,” and that interaction drew him in even further, stoking those once dormant competitive res. I caught up with Joe a er the meet, and he said, “While it was sobering, it was
‘mission accomplished’ in the sense that I was able to compare my times with how fast I was swimming when I was in my 20s, and 40s. I now have a new starting point.” He added, “I used to be a coach, and I have always appreciated the collegiality in
Judith Young, 99, and Joe Ryan, 64 were among the local competitors at the Empire State Senior Games last weekend. (Photo: Provided)
and providing them with the resources and tools they need to succeed is a top priority of my administration,” Hochul said in a release. “ e Summer Youth Employment Program helps young New Yorkers across the state nd good summer jobs that provide valuable experiences and skills that will help them pursue their educational and career goals and prepare them for success in the workforce as adults.”
SYEP participants typically spend the summer working entry-level jobs at places such as local parks, summer camps, child care organizations, cultural centers, educational facilities and community-based organizations, according to the governor’s o ce. In 2025, SYEP is expected to employ approximately 21,000 youth statewide.
“Summer jobs are a gateway to the world of work for young New Yorkers,” New York State Department of Labor Commissioner Roberta Reardon said in a release. “ e skills and experience they will gain through [the] Summer Youth Employment Program will continue to serve them long into their chosen career elds. is initiative is a win-win-win for young New Yorkers in underserved populations, their communities, and the New York State economy.”
ese e orts are critical to expanding the city’s tax base which, in turn, supports public services and programs that bene t the broader Ithaca community.
Recently, we’ve intensi ed our outreach to Downtown stakeholders to better understand the issues that are eroding con dence in Downtown. It’s evident that a stronger partnership with city and county leadership is needed to address public safety concerns and disruptive behaviors that jeopardize the business climate and daily experience for residents and visitors.
Perception shapes reality. Small issues—if neglected—become larger ones. at’s why we’re urging city o cials to enforce existing laws and ordinances that protect the character of the Commons as a safe, clean, and vibrant pedestrian corridor. Visitors and residents should be able to enjoy Downtown without feeling harassed or unsafe. e same goes for our parking garages, which must be clean, well-lit, and maintained to support a positive, welcoming atmosphere.
When public spaces look good, they feel good. ey build pride and a sense of collective ownership. To improve
accountability, DIA has submitted a new Memorandum of Understanding to the city, de ning clear roles for city departments and our own Clean & Green team. Everyone should know who is responsible for what and when. is clarity will help assure property and business owners that they have reliable partners who support their investments in Downtown.
We’ve called on the Common Council and city administrators to act swi ly to adopt and implement this shared framework of responsibilities.
e importance of reliable partnership and accountability is also evident in one of Downtown’s biggest recent investments: Asteri Ithaca and the adjacent Ithaca Downtown Conference Center.
is mixed-use project was envisioned to meet a range of community needs— from a ordable housing for vulnerable members of our community to economic development through a greater number of events and increased tourism.
Less than a year since its August 2024 opening, it’s clear that greater diligence is required from city leaders to ensure the Vecino Group—the owner and manager of the residential complex—address safety, maintenance, and security concerns. ese issues, if le unresolved, threaten to undermine a nearly $100 million public
investment intended to be transformative for Downtown Ithaca, and a catalyst for increased tourism, convention and event business.
e bene ts of a thriving Downtown Ithaca are without question. Downtown is more than numbers and statistics. It’s a mindset and way of life. e future of Downtown, however, depends on relentless cooperation, collaboration, and a shared vision rooted in determination and purpose. is community has repeatedly come together to shape the future of our Downtown — rebuilding the Commons, updating zoning, and investing in shared goals. We have done this work together because we believe in Downtown’s value.
at work must continue.
Inasmuch as this vital residential and business district ourishes, so does Ithaca—and with it, so does our entire region. is is everyone’s Downtown and it is the obligation of us all to make it the best it can—and should—be for our sake now and for the bene t of all who come a er us.
Nah Roher is the CEO of the Downtown Ithaca Alliance, a nonpro t organization committed to the revitalization and economic development within Ithaca’s downtown district.
When you choose Tompkins, you get things that other banks think are impossible to combine— like the most forward-thinking technology and the kind of relationships that only happen in a tight-knit community.
Open an account at openanywhere.tompkinsbank.com
legislature’s budget has not gone over the tax cap. The legislature’s 2025 budget contained a tax levy increase of 2.72%.
Several county legislators argued there was no reason to vote on this resolution so far in advance. The law can be passed at any time before the budget is finalized, even if it had been tabled or voted against
WITH 1 BARGAINING SESSION LEFT
“I feel very invested in teacher pay and the step-and-lane [system],” said Rachel Nascimento, who teaches English as a New Language at Beverly J. Martin Elementary School and represents the school in union negotiations. “I think that it would be a step up and would add so much value to this job that is very hard and taxing on teachers.”
Audrey Hopkins, an ITA member and pre-K teacher at BJM, also said she hopes to see a step-and-lane system in the new contract. Beyond a revised salary structure, Hopkins hopes to see a contract that prioritizes the needs of students.
at the June 3 meeting.
“I think we weaken our position to get the best possible budget,” Mezey said. “The best possible services at the lowest possible cost to the taxpayer should be our goal in every budget season and I think changing this now in June prematurely takes away any strength that we have to negotiate with the county administrator, our agencies and our state and federal partners.”
Others said it was an important tool
“As a teacher, I’m really thinking about the kids on a daily basis and what’s in their best interest,” Hopkins said. “I think some of the negotiations are really going to benefit the children in a lot of ways.”
One issue the district and ITA agreed on is implementing a standard for inclusion planning time in their contract.
ICSD uses a co-teaching model, where general and special education teachers lead classes together to promote a more inclusive learning environment. In their new contract, teachers will have dedicated time for inclusion planning.
Nascimento said the new contract is an opportunity to increase job security for ICSD’s teachers. She said the step-and-lane system would help retain veteran teach-
to be able to consider throughout the budgeting process. County Administrator Korsah Akumfi said the law would not change anything during the process and that all departments are asked to provide them with a maintenance of effort and service enhancement, with justification of why that enhancement is needed and how it will improve services for residents and taxpayers.
Much of the concern over not passing the ability to override the tax cap was
ers and make the district more attractive to early-career teachers.
“I think we’re setting the stage for young teachers coming into this career,” Nascimento said. “It’s about securing the teachers we have now so that they can continue with their careers and set up a system for bright, young educators coming in.”
Another issue union leadership has fought to implement into its next contract is paid family leave. Currently, teachers planning to have children can use their 30 days of annual sick leave for prenatal appointments and time off before and after childbirth.
ITA leaders say many teachers who have children often exhaust their sick days and rely on the union’s “sick bank,” a yearly pool of leave days teachers contribute to.
in regard to federal funding and the Big Beautiful Bill, which, if passed, would implement tax cuts, spending cuts and changes to various federal programs.
“Not only are we facing the possibility that we can't maintain our current effort without exceeding the tax cap but we're also facing the possibility that millions of dollars that our not for profits depend on and that we depend on and that the city and the towns depend on may be cut,” District 10 Legislator Deborah Dawson said.
District leaders plan to come to the next negotiation session with a proposal to address this concern.
Other issues that remain unresolved going into Thursday’s session include protections against outsourcing teaching to artificial intelligence and health insurance coverage for domestic partners. The ITA will hold a practice picket on the Ithaca High School campus from 4:15 to 6:15 p.m. on Tuesday.
The ITA’s last bargaining session is scheduled for 9 a.m. on Thursday, June 12 at Ithaca High School’s York Hall. Only ICSD employees are permitted to attend in person, but the session will be livestreamed via Zoom and posted to the district’s YouTube channel.
Settle in With a Warm Welcome
Enjoy beautiful surroundings at Brookdale Ithaca. With friends and neighbors by your side, enjoy lively experiences as you express your creativity, pursue your interests and live life to the fullest. Join our gardening club, enjoy painting classes, participate in evening socials and more. Here, everyone feels at home.
Our amenities include:
• Pet-friendly spaces, welcoming your four-legged friend
• A variety of ways to connect, from art and fitness classes to book clubs and happy hours
• Personal care plans tailored to your individual needs
• Several floor plan options to meet your personal style and budget
Ithaca
“Hear the Music”: Ithacans Educate, Celebrate for Juneteenth
By Varsha Bhargava
Tunes, aromatic foods and warm laughter will take over Southside as celebrations erupt for the Juneteenth festival on Saturday. is year, the festival takes on the theme “Stay Awake and Resist.”
Hosted by the Southside Community Center, the annual festival will take place on the intersection of Cleveland Ave and South Plain Street from noon to 6 p.m. e event is open and free to all.
Akin to a “big block party,” the festival will host Black vendors, artists and performers and hundreds of Ithaca residents, said Chavon Bunch, executive director of the Southside Community Center.
“[Growing up,] Juneteenth here in Ithaca was education, but [also] seeing all of my people — or people that look like me — in the neighborhood,” Bunch said.
What is Juneteenth?
On June 19, 1865, Union troops marched into Galveston, TX, and ordered the nal enforcement of the Emancipation Proclamation, which decreed the end of slavery in the Confederate states. In freeing over 250,000 enslaved people in Texas, the day of freedom marked a turning point in African American history.
e newly freed people in Texas deemed the day “Juneteenth” — a wordplay on the date June 19.
Declared a national holiday in 2021, Juneteenth now takes the form of celebration for Black Americans, as well as a reminder to ght for justice. Black communities across the country gather with family and friends to enjoy community events and commemorate African American resilience.
e Southside Community Center teaches a Black Consciousness Curriculum and Bunch said that the center hosts the Juneteenth festival partly as a means to ll an educational gap in textbooks and teach Black history.
“We’re educating one person at a time,” Bunch said. “We laugh, we talk, but there’s also a chance to give people some knowledge they didn’t have.”
What to Expect
On Saturday, the festival will be lled with local businesses, or “co-conspirators” as Bunch calls them. e community can anticipate Soul Food, Caribbean dishes, baked goods and more to dance on their taste buds while local children dance on stage. Vendors will arrive with cra s,
plants and goods in tow for attendees to browse amid a backdrop of lively music and mirth.
“You can’t help but come out and hear the music,” Bunch said. “ at bass starts hitting and it’s like ‘What in the world is going on?’ en you come out and there’s people, there’s food, there’s dancing.”
Right a er the COVID-19 pandemic, Bunch recalled the magnetism of the festival among the community. at year, in classic Ithaca-fashion, rain interrupted the festival, but instead of heading home, the community started dancing through the rain, “happy to just be with each other,” Bunch said.
Ultimately, Bunch emphasized that this event is an important and fun way for the community center to showcase Black culture and history. In addition to the bustling festivities, the Juneteenth festival o ers a haven for Ithacans to engage with one another and appreciate Black culture, community and history.
“We need to educate folk,” Bunch said. “We need to make sure that, especially now in these times, our history doesn’t get erased.”
Southside Juneteenth Festival
Saturday, June 14 from noon to 6 p.m. Cleveland
& Entertainment
Ithacans interact with small businesses at the 2023 Juneteenth Celebration.
(Photo: Provided/Rob Henry)
Community members rally during a Juneteenth event in 2020 at the Bernie Milton Pavillion on the commons.
(Photo: Casey Martin/Ithaca Times File)
Back Where She Belongs
Hello Dolly is Perfection as Cortland Repertory eatre Premieres Season
By Barbara Adams
Cortland Repertory eatre opens its 54th summer season of musicals with a dazzling production of an old favorite: “Hello, Dolly!” Simply put, this is splendid summer entertainment that you don’t need to read about — just go see it, if you can still get tickets.
“Hello Dolly”
Music and lyrics by Jerry Herman; book by Michael Stewart.
Directed by Bill Kincaid and choreographed by Donald J. Laney, with musical direction by Nicholas Guerrero.
At Cortland Repertory Theatre, Little York Lake Road, Preble, N.Y. June 10-13 at 7:30 p.m.; plus 2 p.m. matinees on June 10 and 11. For tickets: https://cortlandrep.org/ or 800-427-6160.
Under Kerby Thompson’s leadership as producing artistic director over the last quarter-century, CRT’s shows have grown increasingly more professional and successful. Part of the magic is bringing back directors, designers, and actors who’ve collaborated here before, which is true for “Dolly” as well. Under CRT veteran Bill Kincaid’s tight direction, we’re swept up in the narrative from the opening moments, and the pace never slows.
With its comical book by Michael Stewart and unforgettable music and lyrics by Jerry Herman, “Hello, Dolly!” premiered back in 1964 with Carol Channing as the irrepressible matchmaker, Dolly Gallagher Levi. e story, set in the late 1890s, re ects the values of those times, especially concerning romantic relations.
Rachel Fry — seen last season in “My Fair Lady” and “Beauty and the Beast” — is perfection in the title role in Hello Dolly at the Cortland Repertory Theatre. (Photo: Provided)
Yet Cortland’s production bursts into life as if it were penned yesterday; like Dolly herself, it’s insistently present.
Rachel Fry — seen here last season in “My Fair Lady” and “Beauty and the Beast”
— is perfection in this role. Elegantly overdressed, she’s ample and authoritative, dispensing advice and her endlessly
Ithaca Pride Festival Expands for its Second Year of Celebration
By Lorien Tyne
Ithaca Pride Festival is back for its second year of hosting a full weekend of celebrating the LGBTQ+ community in Ithaca. e two main events on June 14 and 15 feature many local performers, vendors and organizations, while also prioritizing accessibility.
e festival begins with an all-ages dance party with DJ Heathen Sinford from 4-6 p.m., June 14 at the Bernie Milton Pavilion on e Commons. An opening ceremony will be held 6-7 p.m. and from 7-10 p.m. DJ Spirit Posse and Queen Tessential will perform.
Sunday, June 15, will be Pride in the Park from noon until 6 p.m. at Dewitt Park and Cayuga Street. From 10 a.m. to noon there will be access and family hours, during which there will be no ampli ed sound, and organizers will provide masks and encourage attendees to wear masks to create a more accessible period of the event for some. In addition to access hours, Pride in the Park will have a decompression space at Bu alo Street Books for people seeking a quiet place during the whole event. e space will o er dgets, earplugs, so seating and a lactation area. e order of attractions starting at 10 a.m. is Yoga in the Park, Drag Story
Hour and a youth walking parade, followed with performances by Jacinta Whitcome, e FMs, a drag show, KarleeCrow and Mars the Star Child.
A map of vendors and tables, along with their locations, is available inside the 2025 Pride Guide on the Ithaca Pride Alliance website. Printed versions can also be found at the event. e Pride Guide also includes a list of other Pride Week and Pride Month events in the community, recurring LGBTQ+ related events and more information about the Ithaca Pride Alliance.
Ithaca Pride Festival
Saturday, June 14 through Sunday, June 15
Events will take place across downtown Ithaca
“Ithaca has a strong queer community and puts on a lot of events by itself,” Andrew Scheldorf, chair of the Ithaca Pride Alliance, said. “We’re never looking to replace anything. We’re really just looking to build things up.”
Scheldorf said that last year there were three pages of events in the Pride Guide, which increased this year to ve pages of community events. He also said the festival is larger in general, with expanded hours and participation.
“We’ve added quite a few [events], which is super exciting to see the community respond in a way of like, ‘Oh, we can have more events and do more things and get assistance making it happen,” Scheldorf said.
Continued on Page 19
RYAN AS ETHAN ALLEN Q&A WITH DIRECTOR JAY CRAVEN + ITHACA MUSICIANS & JUDY HYMAN JEFF CLAUS 6PM, WEDNESDAY JUNE 18 — CINEMAPOLIS
EPIC REVOLUTIONARY WAR ERA SHOWDOWN BETWEEN NEW YORK AND VERMONT!
KEVIN
This year’s Ithaca Pride Festival, organized by the Ithaca Pride Alliance, will be bigger than before, with more events and extended hours.
(Photo: Devan Accardo/Ithaca Pride Alliance)
Ithaca Pride Festival will return for the second year this weekend, bringing a weekend of celebrations to downtown Ithaca. (Photo: Devan Accardo/Ithaca Pride Alliance)
the swimming community. At this meet, people were still encouraging and supporting one another — especially when Judith Young was competing.” To put a finer point on just how much support there was for Judith, Joe sent me a photo of the two of them and added, “She wasn’t the fastest swimmer there, but at 99, she sure drew a lot of cheers.”
Congrats to the Ithaca High girl’s lacrosse team, as the dream lives on as history is being made. On Saturday, the Little Red traveled to Chenango Valley to take on Section IX’s Valley Central in the NYPHSAA Class A Regionals, with the program’s first-ever trip to the State Final 4 on the line. Ithaca controlled most of the game, and stepped on the gas in the fourth quarter, outscoring their opponent 8-1 — en route to a 15-4 victory.
I absolutely loved the photos showing some of the players all sweaty and disheveled in the afternoon, then all polished up for their senior prom that evening. Way to go, Little Red. Keep it rolling. (Ithaca — now 17-1 — will play Section 1’s Suffern in a state semifinal at 11:30 a.m. June 13 at SUNY Cortland.)
from page 14
specific business cards for any possible needed service — reducing varicose veins, teaching painters to dance. As a widow, Dolly’s in business of necessity, happily arranging everything “from furniture to daffodils to lives.”
Her favorite challenge is matchmaking, and before the show is over, she’s paired up several happy couples. And herself as well — tired of years of loneliness and struggling to make a living, she’s set her sights on the Yonkers businessman and “half-millionaire,” Horace Vandergelder. He never had a chance.
Every actress has to personalize this iconic role, but Fry’s Dolly makes her seem the only possible version. She’s robust yet delicate, brash yet ladylike, generous yet opportunistic, kindhearted yet firmly practical. She has a spirited presence and ready laugh, radiating warmth and a love of life. Just watching her relish a fancy turkey dinner is a treat. Dolly’s sharp and quick; she bamboozles Horace into proposing at such a pace it’s a virtual patter song.
When Dolly returns to Harmonia Gardens, the upscale New York res -
taurant she used to frequent with her beloved Ephraim, now deceased, the waitstaff (led by Henry Howland as the fussy maître d’) comes out in full homage: “It’s so nice to have you back where you belong.” Fry negotiates Dolly’s every moment, comic or reflective, with expressive ease and a twinkle in her eye. Simply spellbinding!
Dolly’s objective, Horace, the singleman-in-possession-of-a-good-fortunewho-needs-a-wife, is curmudgeonly played by Colin Wasamund (last season’s Alfred Dolittle). The two mistreated employees at his feed store, who’ve escaped Yonkers for a day in glamorous New York City, are nicely delivered by Eli Vanderkolk and Teddy Brendel. Their highest ambition: to kiss a girl.
The lads land in a millinery shop and though penniless, somehow find themselves squiring the shop owner (a beautifully voiced Brooke Melton) and her assistant (Zoe Elexis Poulin). Along with Vandergelder’s despairing niece (Ririka Kuroki), a virtual wailing machine, and her forbidden artist beau (Weller Dorff), everyone ends up at the same fancy restaurant, and chaos ensues.
Rozy Isquith’s set, well lit by Matthew Webb, is simple and versatile, while Kasey
Brown’s costumes are jaw-dropping — lush and colorful period dresses and wild checked suits that remind us that fashion is above all fun.
After last summer’s “My Fair Lady,” music director Nicolas Guerrero and choreographer Donald J. Laney have teamed up again to make this musical come alive. The dynamic ensemble dance numbers — whether couples polkaing or black-tailed waiters leaping — are exuberant and sometimes even astonishing. And in the audience, it’s hard to sit still when you’re listening to the tinny street band belting out such lively gallops and marches.
The singing in this production is uniformly strong, and sound designer Kate Wecker has worked a miracle of miracles: the loud music and all the singer’s lyrics are heard equally. (No ordinary feat; I bow in respect.)
For once, all the stars are in alignment, and that’s surprisingly sweet and satisfying. I believe you’ll find a joy de vivre in this production of “Hello, Dolly!” that lasts well after the final curtain.
Barbara Adams is a regional theatre and arts journalist and retired professor of writing, Ithaca College.
An Understudy Steps Up
Comic Relief and Pathos Fill Walking on Water’s Extended Stay
By Barbara Adams
An extended stay — we’ve all had one. It’s a stage in life that you’ve lingered in too long, feeling discontent and even anxious, yet unable to change. Being stuck and not seeing how to move forward: that’s the theme of “Extended Stay,” a new chamber folk musical co-written by Jenny Stafford (lyrics, book) and Scotty Arnold (lyrics, music). This world premiere, a Kitchen Sink Series offering at the Kitchen Theatre, is part of the 2025 Finger Lakes New Works Festival. It’s been in development for almost 10 years, as Stafford and Arnold, friends since graduate school at NYU, evolved it through readings and workshops. In 2022, Priscilla Hummel’s Walking on Water Productions tested it out to positive audience reaction at the first new works festival; and her company now presents it here fully staged. The setting is rural Indiana, in a lackluster extended stay motel, where one young resident, Owen, has been living quietly for several years — since the start of the pandemic. The curmudgeonly manager, Mrs.
“Extended Stay,”
by Jenny Stafford (lyrics, book) and Scotty Arnold (lyrics, music).
Directed by Emily Jackson.
A Walking on Water Production at the Kitchen Theatre, 417 W. State St., Ithaca.
Performances June 12-14 at 7:00 p.m. and June 15 at 2:00 p.m.
Tickets at 607-272-0570 or kitchentheatre.org/tickets.
McGorty, has just hired a new front desk clerk, Emma, and soon Ethan, Owen’s best friend since childhood, shows up as well.
We eventually discover that each has had past disappointments, failures, and even trauma that have left them feeling trapped. Each is wondering, as one song asks, “Am I broke beyond repair?” In composing, Stafford and Arnold were inspired by some real-life experiences as well as by the 1859 Russian novel, “Oblomov,” by Ivan Goncharov, whose first 50 pages describe the protagonist considering getting out of bed. This torpor makes for comedy as well as pathos, which the musical reflects as well.
As Mrs. M., Susannah Berryman is the consistently delicious comic relief; despite repeated attempts, she can’t bring herself to phone the woman friend she’s smitten with. The younger actors are all engaging and believable. Theo Pearson’s Owen is calm and self-possessed, almost convincing us that his agoraphobia is a choice. Having once traveled at large, Owen, always wrapped in his comforting bathrobe, is now content to stay in one room, finding peace and safety, observing everything (like the crack in the ceiling) with meditative intensity.
In extreme opposition, his childhood friend, Ethan, seeks escape in constant stimulation — nonstop travel and reckless adventures. Alex Ross presents him as spontaneous, electric, passionate — an almost irresistible bad boy. Both men are charming in different ways, and Emma (Elena Salzberg) finds herself drawn to both.
Emma is the enigma. She’s newly in recovery (Mrs. M. is her perceptive sponsor) and at least talks the talk: the 12 steps seem to be the way forward. But staying on the path is a challenge. As it turned out, on opening night, this key role was covered by Salzberg’s understudy, Bella Woody (also the play’s intimacy captain). Woody needed to carry a script, but she did so with such skill that it seemed an intentional prop. Her performance was exceptional — expressive and layered, sympathetically revealing Emma’s emotional progress.
As always, WoW is committed to nurturing and showcasing Ithaca’s rich community talent. All the young actors and understudies here have solid Ithaca College theater training, and it shows: under director Emily Jackson’s guidance, they effectively capture their characters’ diverse stages of struggle against fear and inertia. And their voices shine, especially in their individual solos.
As musical director, Katherine Gould ably leads the unseen five-person band, delivering Arnold’s catchy music, from slow ballads to upbeat, even rowdy songs. Some 25 numbers tell the story, and with
this work’s almost sung-through structure, we need to follow the lyrics closely to appreciate what’s happening; they’re dense with narrative detail. But the sound mix here is such that too often the music overwhelms the voices. (Once again, a plea for supertitles in musicals; lyricists’ work deserves to be heard.)
The setting quietly complements the narrative: Iris Estelle’s costumes are unobtrusively natural, and resident designer Tyler M. Perry provides a suitably sad motel interior, backed by worn barnboard and lit by Claire Chesne. The drab site, in fact, echoes the insularity of the characters; the outside world of significant events has no presence here. Everyone is extremely self-focused, and the lyrics offer familiar therapeutic advice (“You are the only thing between yourself and free.”) This can feel somewhat claustrophobic, but ultimately the play’s gradual progressive motion — from isolation to action and independence — offers an aging wider vista.
Barbara Adams is a regional theatre and arts journalist and retired professor of writing, Ithaca College.
Eleba Sakzberg, Theo Pearson, and Alex Rose in the Walking on Water presentation of “Extended Stay” which will be performed June 12-15 at the Kitchen Theatre. (Photo: Rachel Phillipson)
Running Feet for Peace: The Peace Trot Returns
By Leah Badawi
This Sunday, June 15, the Ithaca Catholic Worker community will be hosting the 16th annual Peter De Mott Peace Trot, a 5k and 1 Mile “Fun Run” which starts and ends in Cass Park. The event, named after the late peace activist Peter De Mott, serves as a fundraiser for the Ithaca Catholic Worker’s efforts to aid low-income and marginalized people across Tompkins County and speak out against violence and injustice.
The Ithaca Catholic Worker has spearheaded several initiatives over this past year, including a public outdoor food pantry and free housing program for homeless divorced women. Furthermore, they have contributed money from previous peace trots to those in need and to grassroots
efforts run by people of color.
De Mott was a veteran of the Vietnam War who helped found The Ithaca Catholic Worker. According to Ellen Grady, his wife, he was, like other young men at the time, at first fooled into thinking he was doing good by serving his country. Later, he recognized it as an imperial project.
De Mott dedicated much of his life after the war to standing up for peace, staunchly objecting US foreign imperialism. “He held a lot of remorse for his participation in that war, and felt very used by our government.” said Grady.
A large part of De Mott’s life was rooted in physical activity. He was arrested for protesting against war and militarism several times, but that did not stop him. He would sometimes run in circles, or do step-ups on the metal toilet bowl of his room.
“It was a rare moment Peter didn’t run,” Grady explained. “He would figure out exercise routines, whether he was confined to a cell or not.”
Participants can run, walk, or stroll through the courses. The 5k will be timed, and victors stand to choose from a variety of prizes. All participants will receive the year’s Peace Trot T-shirt, which typically includes a quote and design highlighting the importance of peace and empathy. Last year’s shirt had the poem “If I Must Die” by Refaat Alareer, alluding to the humanitarian crisis in Gaza. Alareer was killed in a targeted drone strike shortly after writing the poem.
The Ithaca Catholic Worker has been outspoken in calling for a ceasefire. Last year, the organization sponsored a member of the community to participate in a peace delegation in the West Bank. The organization has also hosted Palestinians, and works with younger activists to plan acts of nonviolent civil resistance, art, and vigils honoring the lives lost.
“What’s deep on our hearts is the genocide that is happening in Palestine, and how we can, as a community, put forth the call for this to stop in the United States, especially, to stop being complicit in this because we are arming Israel and we are
supplying the weapons and the money for this destruction.” Grady lamented.
The Peace Trot ultimately aims to honor De Mott’s spirit by bringing people together to run for a better world, and raise money for future initiatives. “Everyone is welcome,” Grady assured. “If you can pay, that’s great because it’s a fundraiser, but if you can’t, please come and be part of this event, because community is what’s gonna help us all, right?”
To register to participate in the Peace Trot or donate, visit www.ithacacatholicworker.org.
Leah Badawi reports for the Ithaca Times through a summer fellowship with the Cornell Daily Sun.
Coming Soon: We the People
A Celebration of Participatory Democracy
Starting Wednesday, June 17th, the Ithaca Times will launch We the People, a dynamic special series of essays designed to ignite public discourse, inspire civic engagement and rally our vibrant community around people, ideas and advocacy that makes a difference.
Our vision for We the People is that it will serve as a forum for thought leaders to share their ideas, perspectives and life experiences. Each week, throughout the summer, a new Guest Essayist will explore a topic we hope will resonate with you - our readers. Those essays that receive the most public support may inspire future exploration and discussion. Like the proverbial “butterfly effect”,we believe that public debate will give birth to more public debate - which is what free speech, a free press and democracy is all about.
What to Expect
Frequency: One compelling topic profiled each week. Length: 700-800 words, plus a photo of the essayist
Diverse Voices, Inspiring Topics
Guest Essayists from all walks of life will share their insights, intellectual pursuits, and personal experiences within our ever-evolving 21st-century world. Topics that strike a chord with our readers may be featured more frequently within the pages of the Ithaca Times and online at www.ithaca. com
Who’s up First?
Our inaugural essayist will be Alex Counts, a Cornell alum and Founder of the Grameen Foundation in America. His essay, titled: Grassroots SelfEmpowerment: An Essential Strategy for Community Development launches our We the People series. We hope you will enjoy it as much as we have.
Please join us starting Wednesday, June 17th, as we celebrate the power of community and demonstrate how local media can inspire and ignite participatory democracy!
The 16th annual Peter De Mott Peace Trot, a 5k and 1 Mile “Fun Run,” will take place on Sunday, June 15. (Photo: Ithaca Times File)
LETTERS TO THE EDITOR
Collective blame is wrong—for Jews and for Palestinians
“A justification sometimes offered for Israel's destruction of Gaza is that residents of the Gaza Strip freely elected the terror group Hamas.
However, a poll by Arab Barometer conducted just before October 7 found that, if there had been an election at that time, the Hamas candidate was likely to receive less than 25% of the vote. Furthermore, Gaza’s population is extremely
ITHACA PRIDE FESTIVAL EXPANDS
continued from page 15
“It’s been super cool seeing that increase in interest.”
Food vendors participating in Pride in the Park include Silo Food Truck, Gimme Coffee, Via’s Cookies, Ania’s Confections, B&B Kettlecorn, and Oracle Chocolates.
Other vendors will be K-HOUSE Karaoke, Lounge & Suites, Mx. Valentine X Professional Witch, Fleece & Thank Ewe
young, so the majority of the population wasn’t born or old enough to vote when Hamas came to power in 2006.
After the murder of a young couple outside of a Jewish museum in Washington, D.C., as well as the horrific attack on Jews in Boulder, Colorado, Senator Chuck Schumer (D-NY) asserted, “Collective blame is traditionally one of the most nasty, dangerous forms of antisemitism.” Collective punishment should also be condemned when it is inflicted upon Palestinians.” — Terry Hansen
Trump Wants To Be A King
“Donald Trump is not hiding the fact that he wants to become a king. He
Fiber Worx, Sheepy Hollow, Rachelillustrates Faerie & Fantasy Art, Mixie Matchie, Rachel Feirman, The Mushroom Circle, Picaflor Farm, Mycelia Herbals, Audrey’s Arts & Acrylics, BlueBassoon Handmade, Art of Yen Ospina, FAIRNY, Intuitive Vibes Design, Quirk Studios LLC, Snail Boat Studio, Julian Plum Illustration, Autumn Leaves/PM Press, Pastel Pride Witch and Fruity Finds. Organizations tabling will be The H Line / NYS HIV Hotline, Racker, Dr. Delia Browne Physical Therapy, MindWell
Volunteer Coordinator – Nonprofit Newspaper
We are seeking a dedicated Volunteer Coordinator to support our nonprofit newspaper team. This role involves recruiting, training, and managing volunteers to support our mission of delivering impactful, community-focused journalism. Responsibilities include scheduling volunteer shifts, organizing training sessions, maintaining volunteer records, and fostering a positive, inclusive environment. The ideal candidate is highly organized, communicative, and passionate about community engagement. Prior experience in volunteer management or nonprofit work is a plus. Flexible hours, approximately 10-15 hours per week. Retirees are welcome as are stay-at-home parents. Join us in amplifying local voices!
To apply, please log on to our website at: www.pathwaystoequity.com. Fill out the short form including why you are interested in this opportunity and we will contact you to schedule an interview. Thank you: Program Director - Pathways to Equity, Inc.
said he wanted to become a dictator for one day, but what dictator voluntarily gives up power after just one day? And he is not just talking the talk. He is also walking the walk by making a five-pronged attack against institutions necessary to maintain a healthy democracy.
1) He has attacked law firms that have worked for his opponents by threatening to cancel their security clearances and their access to federal buildings.
2) He has incited hundreds of serious threats against prosecutors and judges by constantly accusing them of being political hacks who have rigged the trials against him.
3) He has attacked the press and threatened to revoke broadcast licenses
Psychology, Queer Despair & Resilience Circle, Alzheimer’s Association, Finger Lakes Independence Center (FLIC), Tompkins Whole Health, Visions, Party of Socialism and Liberation, The Wedding Show, FLAGcon, The Satanic Temple Western New York, Ithaca Board of Realtors, Tompkins County Workers’ Center, REI, Qgrads, Ithaca Teachers Association, Rainbow Support Aliance, Office of NYS Sen Lea Webb, St. Luke Lutheran Church, Cornell University LGBTQ+, Tompkins County Public Library, Buffalo Street
over what he calls “fake news”
4) He has threatened to withdraw billions of dollars from universities and is trying to revoke Harvard University’s ability to host international students.
5) He has weaponized his Justice Department to go after his enemies and ignore the crimes of his allies.
We need to fight back to preserve our democracy through PEACEFUL protest. Over 1000 protests against the Trump regime will take place across the nation on June 14. Ithacans should visit https://www.mobilize.us/mobilize/ event/786342/ for more details about the local No Kings Day protest.” — Robin Messing
Books, Guthrie, Suicide Prevention & Crisis Service of Tompkins County and WRFI Community Radio. Scheldorf said the event is completely volunteer-run and is still in need of more volunteers. They said shifts can be as little as two hours up to an all-day commitment. “It takes a lot of people to put this on … but it’s a lot of fun,” Scheldorf said. “It’s really great to get involved and get connected with folks. So if people are looking for a way to find community or meet folks, volunteering is a great option.”
We buy 8,000 cars a week. Sell your old, busted or junk car with no hoops, haggles, or headaches. Sell your car to Peddle. Easy three-step process. Instant offer. Free pickup. Fast payment. Call 1-855-403-3374. (NYSCAN)
200/Buy / Sell / Trade
GOT AN UNWANTED CAR?
Your car donation to Patriotic Hearts helps veterans find work or start their own business. Fast, free pickup. Running or not! Call 24/7: 1-833-441-4496. (NYSCAN)
245/Garage Sales
YARD SALE
June 14 & 15, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Many Tools, also misc. items 181 Nelson Rd., Danby
250/Merchandise
PREPARE FOR POWER OUTAGES TODAY!
...with a Generac Home Standby Generator. Act now to receive a FREE 5-year warranty with qualifying purchase. Call 1-877-516-1160 today to schedule a free quote. It’s not just a generator. It’s a power move. (NYSCAN)
Internet: www.ithaca.com Mail: Ithaca Times Classified Dept PO Box 27 Ithaca NY 14850 In Person: Mon.-Fri. 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. 109 North Cayuga Street
280/Trade / Wanted
WE BUY HOUSES FOR CASH AS IS!
No repairs. No fuss. Any condition. Easy three-step process: Call, get cash offer and get paid. Get your fair cash offer today by calling Liz Buys Houses: 1-888-704-5670. (NYSCAN)
800/Services
ATTENTION OXYGEN THERAPY USERS!
Discover Oxygen Therapy That Moves with You with Inogen Portable Oxygen Concentrators. FREE information kit. Call 1-833-661-4172. (NYSCAN)
DIRECTV-
All your entertainment. Nothing on your roof! Sign up for Direct and get your first free months of Max, Paramount+, Showtime, Starz, MGM+ and Cinemax included. Choice package $84.99/mo. Some restrictions apply. Call DIRECTV 1-888-534-6918. (NYSCAN)
GET A BREAK ON YOUR TAXES
Donate your car, truck, or SUV to assist the blind and visually impaired. Arrange a swift, no-cost vehicle pickup and secure a generous tax credit for 2025. Call Heritage for the Blind Today at 1-855-484-3467. (NYSCAN)
GET DISH SATELLITE TV + INTERNET!
Free Install, Free HD-DVR Upgrade, 80,000 On-Demand Movies, Plus Limited Time Up To $600 In Gift Cards. Call Today! 1-866-782-4069. (NYSCAN)
830/Home
AFFORDABLE TV & INTERNET
If you are overpaying for your service, call now for a free quote and see how much you can save! 1-855-399-2803. (NYSCAN)
AGING ROOF? NEW HOMEOWNER? STORM DAMAGE?
You need a local expert provider that proudly stands behind their work. Fast, free estimate. Financing available. Call 1-833-880-7679. (NYSCAN)
HEARING AIDS!!!
High-quality rechargeable, powerful Audien hearing aids priced 90% less than competitors. Tiny and NEARLY INVISIBLE! 45-Day money back guarantee! 855-819-7060. (NYSCAN)
INJURED IN AN ACCIDENT?
Don’t Accept the insurance company’s first offer. Many injured parties are entitled to major cash settlements. Get a free evaluation to see what your case is really worth. 100% Free Evaluation. Call Now: 1-888-454-4717. Be ready with your zip code to connect with the closest provider. (NYSCAN)
PRIVATE SENIOR RESIDENCE
Your loved ones will be treated like family. Basic care provided. Meals, laundry, housekeeping, & gym onsite. PRIVATE PAY ONLY. arlinresidence@gmail.com. (914)462-0624. (NYSCAN)
BEAUTIFUL BATH
UPDATES in as little as ONE DAY!
Superior quality bath and shower systems at AFFORDABLE PRICES! Lifetime warranty & professional installs. Call Now! 1-833-807-0159. (NYSCAN)
PEST CONTROL: PROTECT YOUR HOME from pests safely and affordably. Roaches, Bed Bugs, Rodent, Termite, Spiders and other pests. Locally owned and affordable. Call for service or an inspection today! 1-833549-0598. Have zip code of property ready when calling! (NYSCAN)
PREPARE FOR POWER
OUTAGES!
With Briggs & Stratton PowerProtect (TM) standby generators — the most powerful home standby generators available. Industry-leading comprehensive warranty — 7 years ($849 value). Proudly made in the USA! Call Briggs & Stratton 1-888-605-1496. (NYSCAN)
DO YOU NEED A ROOF OR ENERGY EFFICIENT WINDOWS & HELP PAYING FOR IT?
YOU MAY QUALIFY THROUGH NEW RELIEF PROGRAMS (800) 944-9393 or visit NYProgramFunding.org to qualify. Approved applications will have the work completed by a repair crew provided by: HOMEOWNER FUNDING. Not affiliated with State or Gov Programs. (NYSCAN)
FREE WATER TESTING
Do you know what’s in your water? Leaf Home Water Solutions offers FREE water testing and whole home water treatment systems that can be installed in as little as one day. 15% off your entire purchase. Plus 10% senior and military discounts. Restrictions apply. Schedule your FREE test today.
Call 1-866-247-5728. (NYSCAN)
SAFE STEP – NORTH AMERICA’S #1 WALK-IN TUB
Comprehensive lifetime warranty. Top-of-the-line installation and service. Now featuring our FREE shower package and $1600 OFF for a limited time! Call today! Financing available. Call Safe Step 1-855-916-5473. (NYSCAN)
855/Misc.
GET BOOST INFINITE!
Unlimited Talk, Text and Data For Just $25/mo! The Power Of 3 5G Networks, One Low Price! Call Today and Get The Latest iPhone Every Year On Us! 844-329-9391. (NYSCAN)
CONSUMER CELLULAR
The same reliable, nationwide coverage as the largest carriers. No long-term contract, no hidden fees and activation is free. All plans feature unlimited talk and text, starting at just $20/month. For more information, call 1-844-919-1682. (NYSCAN)
875/Travel
SAVE ON YOUR TRAVEL PLANS! Up to 75% More than 500 AIRLINES and 300,000 HOTELS across the world. Let us do the research for you for FREE! Call: 877-988-7277. (NYSCAN)
Bars/Bands/Clubs
6/11 Wednesday
Jazz Night at Deep Dive: Fire y Trio | 6:30 p.m. | Deep Dive Ithaca, 415 Old Taughannock Blvd | Free Practice At All Ages Showcase: Second Spring and Don’t Don’t | 7:30 p.m. | The Downstairs, 121 W M.L.K. Jr. St.
6/12 Thursday
CFCU Summer Concert Series:
Maddy Walsh & the Blind Spots, with opener Mama Look! | 5 p.m. | Bernie Milton Pavilion, Center Commons | Free
Aaron Lipp | 5:30 p.m. | South Hill Cider, 550 Sandbank Rd.
Brewhouse Blues Jam | 6 p.m. | Hopshire Farm & Brewery, 1771 Dryden Rd. | Free Femmes Of Rock | 7 p.m. | LECOM Event Center, 155 N. Main Street, Tully
6/13 Friday
Friday Sunset Music Series — ft.
Jon Lamanna |6:30pm | Wagner Vineyards, 9322 State Route 414
Sim Redmond Band | 5:30 p.m. | South Hill Cider, 550 Sandbank Road | $10.00 - $15.00
FREIGHT Album Release! w/s/g
The Pierce Project | 6 p.m. | Deep Dive Ithaca, 415 Old Taughannock Blvd Los Bandidos — Latin Jazz Dance Music | 6 p.m. | Stone Bend Farm, 196 Porter Hill Rd., New eld | Free
6/14 Saturday
Ageless Jazz Band at Dryden Dairy Day | 1 p.m. | Montgomery Park, Elm Street | Free
The Destination After Dark | 6 p.m. | Treleaven Wines, 658 Lake Road | $10.00
Dwyer Memorial Park, Little York Lake Rd | HELLO, DOLLY! opens Cortland Rep’s 2025 Summer Season! Visit https://cortlandrep.org/ for additional dates and times. Runs June 4-13.
Create Your Own Puppet Play with Concrete Temple Theatre | 6 p.m., 6/12 Thursday | The Cherry Arts, 102 Cherry St | This workshop is ve sessions long, with a nal performance session; the group will meet from 6-8 p.m. on the following dates: June 12, 17, 19, 24, and 26 | $50.00 - $100.00
Trampoline: How I Met The Internet | 7 p.m., 6/12 Thursday | The Downstairs, 121 W. M.L.K. Jr. St. | Trampoline! June’s Theme: How I met the Internet 7 p .m. $5
Jesus Christ Superstar | 7:30 p.m., 6/13 Friday | Merry-Go-Round Playhouse, 17 William St, 2nd Floor | Runs May 28th – June 17th. Tickets can be purchased at TheREVTheatre. com or by calling The REV’s box o ce at 315-255-1785.
Filippetti’s Dance Academy presents IT’S SHOWTIME 2025 | 2 p.m., 6/14 Saturday | Clemens Center, 207 Clemens Center Parkway |
Participatory Contra, Square, and Circle Dancing | 7 p.m., 6/17 Tuesday | Ithaca Commons, 171 E. State St./ Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd |
Stand Up Comedy Open Mic (7pm) | 6/17 Tuesday | The Downstairs, 121 W M.L.K. Jr. St. | First and third Tuesdays of the month! Kenneth McLauren hosts Open Mic Stand Up Comedy Night at The Downstairs. 7pm Support the downstairs! Become a member or donate to the Programming Fund!
ArtLindsey Poto | Reaching into the Lake | 1 p.m., 6/11 Wednesday | Ink Shop Studio Gallery, 330 E.State / MLK Street | Reaching into the Lake
is a series of etchings by Lindsey Poto , a printmaker from Michigan who received her BFA from Cornell in 2022 and is currently attending the University of Connecticut for her MFA. | Free
Figure Drawing Fridays at CSMA | 6 p.m., 6/13 Friday | Ithaca Community School of Music and Arts, 330 East State Street | If you’re an intermediate or advanced-level artist interested in drawing from the nude model, come join our non-instructed, open gure drawing sessions at CSMA. | $15.00 - $20.00
Cosmic Smash Booking | 11 a.m., 6/14 Saturday | The Whimsy Mercantile, 2075 East Shore Drive | Join Terry Pitzel, our Galactic Guide, in the Whimsy’s café to learn about Cosmic Smash Booking. | Free
The Gallery at South Hill opening reception for Carla Stetson’s “Meanders” | 4 p.m., 6/14 Saturday | The Gallery at South Hill, 950 Danby Rd. South Hill Business Campus South Hill Business Campus | Opening reception for Carla Stetson’s one person exhibit “Meanders” at The Gallery at South Hill. Many of the pieces in this exhibit are in uenced by uid dynamics, the study of the winding and spiraling movement of uids and follow a cartographic impulse. | Free
Demo Day at the Artist Alley studios | 12 p.m., 6/15 Sunday | Artist Alley, 950 Danby Rd. South Hill Business Campus South Hill Business Campus | Demo Day at The Artist Alley art studios features demonstrations in printmaking, painting, ceramics, pastel, and stained glass, and fabric dying. some of the artist studios will also be open to visit but not doing any demonstrations. Free to the public. | Free
Riverwood Art Club | 4 p.m., 6/16 Monday | Riverwood, 116 E State St. | Riverwood is hosting an art club every Monday! Bring your tablet, yarn,
collage materials, clay, paints, or anything else. All ages and supplies provided. | Free
The Spiral Path: Tracing Our Way Forward — Art Exhibit Opening | 5 p.m., 6/17 Tuesday | The Soil Factory, 142 Ithaca Beer Drive | Art work by 13 invited artists with live music by Cassia and Gordon | Free
Film
Queer Cinema 101 | 6 p.m., 6/12
Thursday | Tompkins County Public Library, 101 East Green Street | When was the “ rst” LGBTQ+ lm? How has censorship shaped the history of queer representation? Why do LGBTQ+ audiences adore camp, horror, and other so-called “low brow” genres?
Cinemapolis
120 E. Green St., Ithaca
New lms opening June 13th.
Contact Cinemapolis for showtimes & continuing lms.
Materialists| A young, ambitious New York City matchmaker nds herself torn between the perfect match and her imperfect ex. | R 116 mins
The Life of Chuck | A life-a rming, genre-bending story based on Stephen King’s novella about three chapters in the life of an ordinary man named Charles Krantz. | R 110 mins
How To Train Your Dragon (2025)
| As an ancient threat endangers both Vikings and dragons alike on the isle of Berk, the friendship between Hiccup, an inventive Viking, and Toothless, a Night Fury dragon, becomes the key to both species forging a new future together. | PG 125 mins
Special Events
Illuminations Community Memorial | 7:30 p.m., 6/12 Thursday | Hospicare, 172 E King Rd. | Remembering Loved Ones We’ve Lost. All are invited to attend our annual Illuminations Community Memorial. Attendance is free. Register at www.hospicare. org. | Free
Homer Field Days | 6/12 Thursday | Historic Downtown Homer | Mark your
calendar for Homer Field Days, June 12–14 — three nights of hometown fun you won’t want to miss!
Dryden Dairy Day | 9:30 a.m., 6/14 Saturday | Montgomery Park, Elm Street | Celebrate our region’s hardworking farmers and the delicious dairy products they bring to our tables at the 41st Dryden Dairy Day on Saturday, June 14. The festivities begin at 9:30 a.m. | Free Elmira Street Painting Festival! | 10 a.m., 6/14 Saturday | Wisner Park, N Main W. Church Sts | Located on Main St. in downtown Elmira! Get Outdoors and Get Together Day | 10 a.m., 6/14 Saturday | Taughannock Falls State Park, 1740 Taughannock Blvd. | Activities will included Learn to Fish; Accessible guided hikes & walks; DIY Seed Bombs & Nature crafts; Lawn games; & Adaptive bike rides. Vehicle entrance fees will be waived at the participating parks for the duration of the event. | Free
Native Plant Garden Tour | 10:30 a.m., 6/14 Saturday | CCE-Tompkins Education Center, 615 Willow Avenue | Join us on Saturday, June 14, from 10:30 am to 3:30 p.m., for a tour of 5 gardens in Ithaca and the Ellis Hollow area, all featuring native plants. See what is possible! | $5.00 Southside Community Center’s Annual Juneteenth Festival | 12 p.m., 6/14 Saturday | Southside Community Center | This year’s theme is Stay Awake and Resist — a powerful reminder to celebrate our roots, our joy, and our ongoing ght for justice. Ithaca Pride 2025 Opening Ceremony & Live Music | 4 p.m., 6/14 Saturday | Bernie Milton Pavilion, Center Commons | Join us for the second annual Ithaca Pride celebration opening ceremony. Live music from 4-6 p.m., ceremony from 6-7 p.m. Accessibility FAQs available at www.ithacapridealliance.com/ithaca-pride | Free
Ithaca Pride All-Ages Dance Party ftg. Spirit Posse & Queen Tessential | 7 p.m., 6/14 Saturday | Bernie Milton Pavilion, Center Commons | Join Spirit Posse with Queen Tessential for an all-ages dance party to kick o Pride and let loose in community. Accessibility FAQs available at www.ithacapridealliance.org/ithacapride | Free
Books
LGBTQ+ Fiction Writing Workshop with Elisabeth Nonas | 5 p.m., 6/11
Wednesday | Bu alo Street Books, 215 North Cayuga Street | Join Buffalo Street Books and talented local author Elisabeth Nonas for a writing workshop! | $40.00 - $60.00
Summer Poetry Writing Group: Writing Through the Senses II with Jada Simone | 5:30 p.m., 6/12
Thursday | Tompkins County Public Library, 101 East Green Street | Meet up with local poets in the Ithaca area to explore fun prompts and workshop poetry, prose, and spoken word pieces.
SONG FOR OLAF: A MEMOIR OF SIBLING LOVE AT THE DAWN OF THE HIV-PANDEMIC | 4 p.m., 6/13
Friday | Bu alo Street Books, 215 North Cayuga Street | Join Jennifer Boulanger and Elisabeth Nonas at Buffalo Street Books for a conversation and book-talk of “A Song for Olaf: A Memoir of Sibling Love at the Dawn of the HIV-AIDS Pandemic” | Free Teen Creative Writing Workshop | 5:30 p.m., 6/17 Tuesday | Tompkins County Public Library, 101 East Green Street | Love to write your own
stories? Have ideas for your own characters and worlds, or an interest in writing fan ction? Join Adrienne Raw for a Teen Creative Writing Workshop!
Comic Book Club Meeting: “Part 2 of Summer Reading Swap Night!” | 7 p.m., 6/17 Tuesday | Tompkins County Public Library, 101 East Green Street | Still looking for something new and di erent — or, at least, new to you — to read this summer? Help is on the way! This week we’ll host another swap meet featuring graphic novels, books, and — of course — comic books! | Free Workshop: Finding the Right Voice: Writing for Young Readers | 6 p.m., 6/18 Wednesday | CAP Artspace Downtown, Tompkins Center for History and Culture, on the Ithaca Commons, 110 N Tioga St. | An interactive workshop with Emily Sun Li and Tommy McAree exploring how to craft authentic voices across picture books, middle grade, and young adult ction. | Free
Kids
Rainbow Family Fridays | 3 p.m., 6/13 Friday | Tompkins County Public
Library, 101 East Green Street | Rainbow Family Fridays are social events for parents, children, and families who identify as LGBTQIA+.
Summer Reading Kicko ! | 3 p.m., 6/13 Friday | Tompkins County Public Library, 101 East Green Street | Summer Reading kicks o with a ‘Crafternoon’ full of food, music, giveaways, crafts, and more at Tompkins County Public Library | Free Science Connections: Sunrise Ithaca | 2 p.m., 6/15 Sunday | Sciencenter, 601 1st St | Sunrise Ithaca is the local youth climate justice organization behind the Ithaca Green New Deal.
SingSong Music Class Series | 10 a.m., 6/17 Tuesday | Tompkins County Public Library, 101 East Green Street | Sign your kiddo up for this four-week music class series with local musician and music-educator Amy Puryear!
Tween Book Club | 4 p.m., 6/17
Tuesday | Tompkins County Public Library, 101 East Green Street | Join us for monthly meetings of the TCPL Tween Book Club. We will read and discuss great books together every month. Our June book will be The Eyes and the Impossible by Dave Eggers.
LEGO Family Build Night | 5:30 p.m., 6/17 Tuesday | Tompkins County Public Library, 101 East Green Street | TCPL invites families to a weekly LEGO build night! Buckets of LEGO will be provided for participants to borrow for their builds..
STEAM Night: Physics Bus! | 5 p.m., 6/18 Wednesday | Lodi Whittier Library, 8484 S Main St | “The science museum of wheels” will be making its way to the Lodi Library! The Physics Bus contains hands on exhibits and facilitates fascinating science demonstrations. This program is best suited for children ages 6-13 years of age. Pizza will be provided. | Free
Notices
Good Grief Circle | 2 p.m., 6/11 Wednesday | The Age Well Center, 165 Main St. | Description The Cortland County O ce for Aging is o ering class for people dealing with grief. For people experiencing the loss of a loved one, home, job, independence or something similar.
Wednesday Market at East Hill | 3 p.m., 6/11 Wednesday | 330 Pine Tree Rd, NY 14850-2819 | Don’t have time
to get to the pavilion every weekend, or need a mid-week haul? We have you covered with meat, eggs, veggies, fruit and even some dinner and pastries to hold you over.
Makerspace Open Hours — PM Session | 5:30 p.m., 6/11 Wednesday | Tompkins County Public Library, 101 East Green Street | Join us for drop-in Open Hours! Registration is not required. Visit the Makerspace to use the laser cutter, 3-D printer, Cricut, or sewing/embroidery machines.
Astrology Meeting | 6 p.m., 6/11
Wednesday | Tompkins County Public Library, 101 East Green Street | A meeting every Wednesday (6:00-7:30 p.m.) at the Tompkins Public Library where people talk about astrology.
Trivia! | 7 p.m., 6/11 Wednesday | Liquid State Brewery, 620 West Green Street. | Trivia Night with Bob Proehl at Liquid State! | Free
Aging in the Apocalypse — Our Aging and the Environment | 10 a.m., 6/12 Thursday | Lifelong, 119 W. Court St. | A free two-hour workshop to explore the themes of our aging and the environment’s aging Free and open to the public. The workshop will be led by writer/performer Yvonne Fisher, community artist Caryl Henry Alexander and lmmaker Sue Perlgut. | Free
GO ITHACA Open Hours | 2 p.m., 6/12 Thursday | Tompkins County Public Library, 101 East Green Street | Join GO ITHACA for Open Hours at TCPL!
GO ITHACA is proud to help transform transportation in Tompkins County! Our program makes sustainable commuting accessible and a ordable for everyone.
King Alcohol Ends Reign — Ithaca’s Prohibition History Walking Tour | 5:30 p.m., 6/12 Thursday | The History Center in Tompkins County, 110 N Tioga Street | A 10-block walking tour through downtown Ithaca that traces the city’s spirited (and often surprising) history with Prohibition. Led by trained docents from The History Center, this 60-min experience takes you to the actual sites of speakeasies, dry raids, church protests, saloons, & reform rallies | $15.00 American Red Cross Blood Drive | 10 a.m., 6/13 Friday | Tompkins County Public Library, 101 East Green Street |
Friday Night Magic: Commander | 5 p.m., 6/13 Friday | Riverwood, 116 E State St | Come down to Riverwood for a recurrent night of Commander-style Magic play! | $5.00
Community Reading of the U.S. Constitution | 9:30 a.m., 6/14 Saturday | Tompkins County Public Library, 101 East Green Street | A nonpartisan gathering outside Tompkins County Public Library to read the U.S. Constitution aloud at a time of crisis. | Free
Outdoor Qi Gong Class- Sundays | 10 a.m., 6/15 Sunday | Allan H. Treman State Marine Park, 805 Taughannock Blvd, Ithaca, NY 14850 | Outdoor Qi Gong for Wellness and Nervous System Regulation. | $12.50 - $15.00
Feast on Words: Queer Expression | 6 p.m., 6/16 Monday | Asempe Kitchen, 114 W Green St. | Be curious about yourself and others this Pride month through creative expression. Join others at Asempe Kitchen on any Monday in June to create your work in whatever form it takes —poetry, journaling, an essay, prose, a letter, or a list. | Free HABby Hour at Cayuga Shoreline | 5:30 p.m., 6/17 Tuesday | Cayuga Shoreline, 7930 County Rd. 153 | Community Science Institute (CSI) invites you to its very rst “HABby Hour”— an informal, informative public event dedicated to understanding Harmful Algal Blooms (HABs) on Cayuga Lake. Greensprings Garden Club | 10 a.m., 6/18 Wednesday | Greensprings Natural Cemetery Preserve, 293 Irish Hill Rd. | From May to October, volunteer with us as we divide perennials, mulch plantings, plant shrubs, pull weeds, pot up perennials, rake leaves, spread gravel and more. Drop-in and lend a hand at our | Free Beloved Artistic Community June Meet-up | 6:30 p.m., 6/18 Wednesday | Hamlin Hall, Community School of Music & Arts | We have the immense joy of partnering with NYC-based theatre company Concrete Temple for our June BAC meet up. In this workshop you will construct a simple puppet, write a little play, and learn how to puppeteer your puppet. Learn about puppetry, connect with others in our community, and have fun! | Free
SOUTHSIDE COMMUNITY CENTER ’ S ANNUAL JUNETEENTH FESTIVAL
SATURDAY, JUNE 14,
FROM 12:00 PM – 6:00 PM
Elena Salzberg, Alex Ross and Theo Pearson appear in the Walking on Water presentation of Extended Stay currently appearing at the Kitchen Theatre in Ithaca. (Photo: Rachel Phillipson)
BackPage
For rates and information contact front@ ithacatimes.com
CLEANING SERVICES
www.cleanswithus.com
JANITORIAL *DEEP CLEANINGS*
INDEPENDENCE CLEANERS CORP
Call 607-697-3294
Everyone is welcome to shop at the Co-Op!
Full Service Grocery Store
Greenstar Food Co-Op
770 Cascadilla St., Ithaca
Get e Ithaca
(607)
*Acupuncture Works*
Peaceful Spirit Acupuncture
Anthony R. Fazio, L.Ac., D.A.O.M.(c)
www.peacefulspiritacupuncture.com
607-272-0114
ANIMALS
LAND & SEA
FingerLakesAnimalRights.org
Times Mobile App
Available in Appstore & Google Play
We are thrilled to announce that Longview has fully renovated 1 and 2 bedroom apartments, a freshly renovated dining room overlooking Cayuga Lake, and a state-of-the-art kitchen. Residents and guests will also enjoy a spacious auditorium that boasts new paint, ooring, and eye-friendly lighting, as well as revitalized common areas that create a warm and comfortable living environment.
Longview.org Marketing and Sales (607)375-6360
Patio Homes – Apartments – Assisted Living –Adult Day Program
Looking for Work?
We are hiring!
Visit us online: www.wgaforchildren.org or call 607-844-6460
e William George Agency
Looking to Boost your Summer Business?
Call Larry at 607-277-7000 ext: 1214
Find out about great advertising ad packages at:
Ithaca.com & Ithaca Times
Men’s and Women’s Alterations for over 20 years
Fur & Leather repair, zipper repair.
Same Day Service Available John’s Tailor Shop
John Serferlis – Tailor
102 e Commons 273-3192
No Long waits for Dermatology Appointments Finger Lakes Dermatology
