BINGHAMTON REPUBLICAN ANNOUNCES ELECTION
CAMPAIGN AGAINST STATE SEN. WEBB
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FIVE TOMPKINS COUNTY VILLAGES PREPARE FOR UPCOMING ELECTIONS
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PLANNING BOARD GRANTS FINAL APPROVAL TO THE CITIZEN DEVELOPMENT
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LOCAL EQUITY INITIATIVES TACKLE MENSTRUAL PRODUCTS, SAFE DRINKING WATER
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STORIES OF JUSTICE, RESILIENCE AND RENEWAL AT THE CHERRY
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A family medicine provider can offer comprehensive, lifelong care that improves overall health outcomes while getting a better understanding of each patient’s individual needs. By treating entire families under one roof, from infants to seniors, these healthcare experts offer a broad range of medical skills to diagnose and treat a wide variety of illnesses and conditions.
“I chose family medicine because it allows me to build long-term relationships, focus on prevention and help patients truly understand their health,” says Dr. Muhammad Hassan Khan, Family Medicine Physician at Arnot Health, a Member of Centralus Health.
Your primary care provider is someone to turn to when facing acute illnesses, managing chronic conditions, seeking preventative care, and coordinating care with specialists.
“Your primary care provider is your first point of contact, someone who truly knows your story, helps prevent illnesses and can guide you through every stage of your life.”
During the first visit, your provider will get a baseline understanding of your health. To do that, they need to discuss your lifestyle habits, go over a list of current medications, and your medical history. Even if you’re generally healthy and only see your provider once a year, they can help you stay healthy and lower your risk of long-term health problems. They also can confirm that you’re on the right medications and seeing the appropriate specialists.
“The first visit is all about listening, understanding your concerns and then creating a clear and simple plan together.”
Active listening serves as a diagnostic tool, ensuring providers do not miss critical symptoms, leading to better, more accurate diagnoses.
“I want my patients to feel heard, not rushed, comfortable when asking questions, and confident about their health when they leave.”
When patients feel respected and understood, they are more likely to trust their provider and follow treatment plans, reducing medical risks. By focusing on wellness and offering regular checkups, physicians like Dr. Khan can help people detect potential health problems before they become serious.
“Seeing patients getting better, gaining confidence in their health, and knowing that I have made a positive difference in their lives is incredibly rewarding.”
Physicians at Arnot Health and Cayuga Health, Members of Centralus Health, place an emphasis on teamwork. Effective teams foster open communication, reducing misunderstandings regarding patient care, roles, and responsibilities. Collaborative care improves patient knowledge, aids in the management of chronic diseases, and offers consistent, high-quality care.
“I chose to work at Centralus because of the great teamwork and the patient
community that truly values the quality care they receive.”
Patients primarily see Dr. Khan for annual physical exams. During these visits, physicians review medical history, measure vital signs, conduct a head-to-toe physical examination, and recommend blood tests or screenings. Aside from routine visits, many family physicians perform minor medical procedures directly in their clinics.
“I offer vaccinations, cancer screenings, chronic disease management, sameday sick visits, women’s health services such as contraception and Pap smears, mental health care, lifestyle counseling, joint injections, and common in-office skin procedures.”
It is recommended to see a primary care doctor annually for preventive checkups, screenings, and to manage chronic conditions. After your first visit, you can schedule a visit for new or worsening symptoms, such as persistent infections, unexplained pain, fatigue, weight loss, or changes in vision/ memory. Primary care providers are also needed for screenings, medication management, and referrals.
To schedule a visit with Dr. Khan, or another primary care provider, go to
mychart.centralushealth.org.
One of the best ways to maintain your health is to start seeing a primary care provider. This physician, nurse practitioner, or physician assistant focuses on preventative care and maintaining your overall health, as well as the treatment of injury and illness. Arnot Health offers primary care services at 100 John Roemmelt Drive, Horseheads; 418 S. Hamilton Street, Erwin; 600 Roe Avenue, Elmira; 309 Hoffman Street, Elmira; 15 Community Drive, Addison; and 455 Maple Street, Big Flats.
Primary care providers specialize in prevention, detection, and treatment of illnesses; internal medicine primary care providers see adults, and family medicine doctors and practitioners see all ages. Cayuga Health offers primary care services at 40 Catherwood Road, Ithaca; 905 Hanshaw Road, Ithaca; 401 Cayuga Park Lane, Ithaca; 260 Tompkins Street, Cortland; 5 Evergreen Street, Dryden; 2138 West Seneca Street, Ovid; 220 Steuben Street, Montour Falls; and 217 N. Aurora Street, Ithaca. SPONSORED CONTENT
By Philip O’Dell
Binghamton Republican Mike Bolles formally launched his campaign for the 52nd State Senate District on Monday, March 2, seeking to challenge twoterm Democratic incumbent Lea Webb. The 52nd State Senate District encompasses Tompkins and Cortland counties, and portions of Broome County that include the city of Binghamton and villages of Johnson City, Endicott, Vestal, Lisle, Whitney Point, and Port Dickinson.
As of March 2, Bolles is the only Republican to formally enter the race for the 52nd Senate District. The 2026 New York state primary election is scheduled for June 23.
According to his campaign announcement, Bolles is running on economic reform and public safety, pledging to address New York’s high tax rates and cost of living while increasing support for first responders across the district.
“New York families are stretched thin by the mess Albany has created,” Bolles said. “We have the highest taxes in the country.
X GIVE Detail Seizes Meth in Friday Traffic Stop
By Lorien Tyne
Police seized over 50 grams of methamphetamine during a traffic stop on W Buffalo Street in Ithaca on Feb. 26, according to a press release from the Ithaca Police Department.
The occupants of the stopped vehicle were Ithaca residents 35-yearold Omar J. Punter, 35-year-old Christopher L. Wright and 29-year-old Destynie M. Wilkinson. There was also a small child inside the vehicle who was “turned over to an uninvolved immediate family member,” according to the press release. No further information was provided about the age or welfare of the child.
Members of a joint Gun Involved Violence Elimination (GIVE) detail conducted the traffic stop at about 10 p.m. near the 800 block of W Buffalo Street. The GIVE detail included members of the Ithaca Police Department, New York State Parole, Tompkins County Sheriff’s Office, and the New York State Police.
Upon investigating the vehicle, the officers found and seized over
We’re all paying more for less. I’ve seen enough. I’m ready to serve again to restore real affordability, back our first responders for safer streets and fight for every resident in the 52nd Senate District.”
Bolles is a former Binghamton firefighter-paramedic and 22-year U.S. Army veteran, the announcement says Bolles’ military career began at age 17 through the U.S. Army Delayed Entry Program, leading to over two decades of domestic and international service. Following his deployment to Ground Zero with the Binghamton Fire Department to assist in recovery efforts after the Sept. 11 attacks,
Continued on Page 25
THE COVER:
In his recent State of the Union address, President Donald Trump called for an end to sanctuary cities. The Ithaca Times spoke with local leaders and community organizations about their response. Design by Kaiden Chandler for the Ithaca
50 grams of methamphetamine, packaging, a scale and an “undisclosed” amount of U.S. currency.
The three adult occupants of the vehicle were each charged with two counts of criminal possession of a controlled substance, a thirddegree class B felony. Wilkinson was additionally charged with a class A misdemeanor for endangering the welfare of a child.
All three of the defendants were arraigned in the Ithaca City Court before Judge Wallace. Punter and Wright were remanded to the Tompkins County Jail and Wilkinson was released under supervision of probation.
The IPD is encouraging anyone with information regarding this incident to contact the police department. Individuals with information who want to remain anonymous may do so.
Police Dispatch: 607-272-3245
Police Administration: 607-272-9973
Police Tipline: 607-330-0000
Anonymous Email Tip Address: cityofithaca.org/ipdtips
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By Mark Syvertson
“WHAT’S YOUR FAVORITE LOCAL/SMALL BUSINESS?”
NOTE: If readers wish to participate in the Ithaca Times’ Inquiring Photographer column, contact Mark Syvertson at marksyvertsonphotography@gmail.com
By Philip O’Dell
Residents in five Tompkins County villages have until Friday, March 6, to register for the upcoming elections, where a slate of candidates seek to fill mayoral and trustee seats.Village elections will take place on March 18 in Cayuga Heights, Dryden, Freeville, Groton and Trumansburg.
According to the Tompkins County Board of Elections, polls will be open from noon to 9 p.m.
The Board of Elections board must receive all mailed applications for absentee or early mail ballots by Friday, March 6. Applicants or their agents have until March 17 to hand deliver an application for an absentee or early mail ballot to the Board of Elections.
In Cayuga Heights, Linda Woodard is running unopposed for mayor. For the village trustee seats, voters may select up to three candidates, as Jennifer Biloski, Samuel Conway and Michael Fleming are the only names on the ballot.
In Dryden’s election, Democratic candidates Rachel Sumner and Michelle Doe are the only contenders for the two available village trustee seats, positioning them to secure both positions. Both candidates are also running under the “Protecting Dryden” party.
In the village of Groton, Republican candidates Charles Rankin and Andrew Montreuil are running unopposed for the two village trustee seats. Voters may select up to two candidates.
In Trumansburg, Rordan Hart is running unopposed for mayor on the Democratic line. In the race for two village trustee seats, incumbent Democratic candidates Ben Darfler and Ben Carver are the only names on the ballot for the vacancies.
In the village of Freeville, Citizens Party candidates Miles McCarty, Juan VazquezLeddon and Anusuya Rangarajan are running unopposed for the positions of mayor and the two available village trustee seats, respectively, according to the village’s website. Both offices consist of two-year terms. Voting will take place at the Freeville Village Hall at 5 Factory St.
According to the Board of Elections, voters can utilize early mail and absentee ballots to participate in elections, provided they meet specific deadlines and eligibility requirements. All registered voters may apply for an early mail ballot. Absentee ballots are reserved for those who will be out of the county on Election Day due to occupation, studies, or vacation, as well as those with illnesses, physical disabilities, or residency in a hospital.
Applications for ballots to be mailed must be received by the Board of Elections no later than 10 days before an election. Voters may also apply in person at the board office until the day before the election. Applications can be obtained online through the New York State portal, at the Tompkins County Board of Elections office, or through most town clerks.
The village of Lansing will hold its election to fill two village trustee seats for twoyear terms on April 28. Voting will take place at the village office, located at 2405 N. Triphammer Road, with a voter registration deadline on April 17. Although the official candidate list is not yet finalized, the field will be set following the March 17–24 filing window for independent nominating petitions, with all certificates of acceptance or vacancy filings due by March 30.
The Board of Elections says Lansing residents looking to participate must register with the Board of Elections by April 17, which is also the final day to request a ballot by mail. For those who miss the mailing window, the deadline to personally deliver a ballot application to the Board of Elections is April 27.
To cast a ballot, voters must mark their choices in pen or pencil, place the ballot in the provided security envelope, and sign and date the outside. Ballots include pre-paid return envelopes and must be postmarked by Election Day. Voters or their designated agents may personally deliver completed ballots to the Board of Elections or any local polling site by 9 p.m. on Election Day.
Beginning March 7, residents can access nonpartisan election data via VOTE411. org. The national resource offers a localized Voters’ Guide for the March 18 village contests, allowing users to enter their home addresses to identify specific district races, polling times and locations. The platform also features candidate profiles detailing their professional backgrounds and positions on key community issues.
By Mikayla Rovenolt
At the 2026 Economic Summit, Chamber President Peggy Coleman gave an update on the economic overview of the county and introduced the event’s keynote speaker, Meredith Andreucci, the senior vice president and executive director of the Governor’s Office of Semiconductor expansion, management and integration (Go-SEMI), Empire State Development (ESD). Andreucci presented on semiconductors within New York State and the Central New York region.
Andreucci began with an explanation as to why the semiconductor industry is important and how it is — and will continue to — impact New Yorkers. She shared that the semiconductor industry is one of the largest industries in the world, with over $1 trillion expected in annual revenue by 2030.
“[Semiconductors] enable everything about today’s modern technology,” Andreucci said. “Computers, phones, manufacturing, technology, communications, and so it really is the future in all parts of the economy and itself. The chip industry is very transformational and that’s why there is a big global race for them. So when these projects come, and when their supply chains come, they’re very impactful on the state and on a region’s economy.”
Within New York State, the semiconductor ecosystem is made up of over 156 semiconductor and supply chain industries and has gained over $124 billion in new chip industry investments since 2022. Andreucci’s presentation noted that one in four United States-made chips will be produced within
350 miles of Upstate New York.
In order to get to $124 billion in investments, Andreucci said the process has taken over 20 years, starting with ESD’s commission for an analysis of potential chip fabrication sites across New York State. In 2002, the state announced a new semiconductor research and development (R&D) facility in Albany, followed by the 2009 announcement from GlobalFoundries stating their headquarters and first manufacturing facilities would be located in Malta, NY, north of Albany.
The COVID-19 pandemic stalled some of the momentum, but did not stop it. In Aug. 2022, Governor Kathy Hochul signed Green CHIPS into law, an incentive program that aims to attract jobs in semiconductor manufacturing to the state and to address supply chain shortages, inflation and national security. Later that same year, Gov. Hochul announced Micron was coming to New York.
In Dec. 2023, Gov. Hochul announced a $10 billion partnership with industry leaders to expand NY CREATES, the New York Center for Research, Economic Advancement, Technology, Engineering and Science (CREATES), a nonprofit organization established to oversee and enhance high-tech research and development in New York State. Then, in Feb. 2024, the governor announced the expansion of GlobalFoundries.
Since 2024, there have been multiple developments in the semiconductor industry with the most recent event being the January groundbreaking ceremony of the Micron site in Syracuse.
Andreucci said that there are five major reasons for why the industry is choosing
Cornell Bhangra’s annual exhibition promoting and sharing Punjabi culture, PAO Bhangra, will be held on March 7 in Barton Hall on Cornell’s campus. Proceeds from the event will support Ithaca Welcomes Refugees’ programs for recently arrived refugees and immigrants in Tompkins County. The exhibition is one of the largest student-run shows on campus and hosts teams from around the nation.
to locate itself in the upstate area: there are globally competitive incentives and “unparalleled industry support,” a robust high-tech workforce, sites ready for development, world class R&D and innovation assets, and resources that include freshwater and clean energy.
“Because New York has been making these investments, because the governor has prioritized this, we’re really the logical place in the United States planning for this [industry],” Andreucci said. “We have a strong ecosystem spanning R&D and workforce.”
Looking ahead, Andreucci said that incentivizing growth is an important factor in the semiconductor industry. Some of the programs to incentive growth include the Green CHIPS program, which has given $10 billion in performance-based tax credits to attract large scale investments such as Micron, and an expanded Excelsior jobs program benefits to attract major supply chain investments.
Other incentives include up to 15% tax credits on qualified capital R&D investments to support NY’s chip innovation leadership and a workforce training tax credit to support on-the-job training.
“I want people to know that all regions of the state have a value proposition towards this industry,” Andreucci said. “Every part of the state really has an opportunity to be in this moment and take advantage of these opportunities. Our office is a purposely built office that the governor set up to really execute on all of these ambitions so one of the exciting things is we’re here to help regions and communities figure out, ‘how do I plug into this moment?’ We’re just getting started.”
On Feb. 10, first responders were called to Elmira Road for a personal injury motor vehicle accident. Ithaca Police updated the community on Feb. 28 that a pedestrian was struck by a Chevrolet Silverado while attempting to cross the road. The pedestrian was transported to a local trauma center in critical condition and has since been released and is recovering from injuries. Ithaca Police is conducting an ongoing investigation with the assistance of the New York State Police.
Zero Waste Ithaca, a grassroots environmental justice organization, is holding its first annual community gathering on March 11 at GreenStar on Cascadilla Street. ZWI members will share information about the group’s work and how to get involved.
The City of Ithaca is seeking residents to serve on the Community Police Board, which is the community liaison to the Ithaca Police Department that works to build positive communication between police and the community. Board members attend monthly Wednesday meetings where they listen to resident concerns and work with police officials. Those interested can find more information about the board, including the application, on the city’s website.
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.”
By Philip O’Dell
The City of Ithaca Planning and Development Board granted preliminary and final approval to The Citizen development project during its Feb. 24 meeting.
Visum Development Group is moving forward with the 59-unit mixed-use project at 602 W. Buffalo St. The project’s design review application says the building will include three studio units, 32 onebedroom units and 24 two-bedroom units.
According to the meeting agenda, the proposed four-story building spans roughly 75,250 square feet and features residential and functional spaces. The building will feature over 2,300 square feet of retail space, a community room, support spaces, and bike storage. To accommodate residents and shoppers, the plan incorporates a ground-floor parking garage with 27 spaces.
The project is in the West End Development Zone 1a (WEDZ-1a), a zoning district for high-density, mixed-use development in the city’s West End.
The project’s approval is contingent on the developer submitting final color selections, specific designs for the screen wall’s articulation, and technical details regarding the metal channels at the cement panel transitions.
The Citizen faced delays as board members raised safety concerns regarding the site’s design, specifically within the parking area.
Board member Andy Rollman said affordable housing should include structured plans for management, security, and support services to ensure success.
“In addition to those we also need accountability in adhering to those,” Rollman said.
Seeking to comply with updated FEMA floodplain maps, architect L. Bear Smith revised the 2023 design by raising the structure four feet and removing the fifth story to avoid height variances. The now four-story, 75,250-square-foot infill project balances a constrained floor plan with modern features, including solar sunscreens, groundfloor retail, and integrated parking.
Architect Steve Hugo said developers are standing by their plan for an open parking structure to enhance public safety through “eyes on the street” despite calls for an enclosed garage.
When board member Andy Rollman asked for a definition of “eyes on the street,” Hugo explained that the concept refers to a form of natural security where public visibility from passing traffic discourages criminal activity. By ensuring the interior remains visible from the sidewalk at night, the developers aim to create a more secure environment, he said.
Hugo said a raised knee wall behind the bike parking will help partially shield vehicles from view. Inside the garage, they plan to use safe levels of lighting, cameras, and signage indicating surveillance.
Addressing the board’s request for clarification on fencing, Hugo said the prop-
erty’s west wall will have privacy screening. The proposed fence features panels set at a 45-degree angle, or a “canted slope,” designed to shield neighboring single-family backyards from the building’s parking area. This angled structure provides a solid privacy barrier when viewed directly yet allows residents in the adjacent homes to maintain a clear line of sight toward the street.
Hugo said the lighting plan was revised to cut the number of overhead fixtures in the parking area by half. This change ensures “zero foot-candles” at the property line to eliminate light spillage into neighboring yards. All surface-mounted lights will feature skirting to shield the bulbs from view at ground level.
Smith said developers will use cast iron tree grates around the trees instead of poured-in-place rubber to address main-
tenance concerns. Brick pavers will be replaced and existing ones recycled, due to the likelihood of damage during construction. The developers said they are amenable to cleaning and painting the DOT-regulated bollards or providing plastic covers, though cleaning and painting is preferred, and the final color will be DOT-dependent.
Smith said three planned locations for bike storage include a main recessed area under the building for retail and residential use, a smaller rack on Meadow Street for retail, and a fenced-in, screenedin area under the parking for residents. Smith said concerns about fire safety with e-bikes were addressed as the open parking garage will allow smoke and fumes to escape, and the concrete deck provides
By Maddy Vogel
New York State Sen. Lea Webb is partnering with local organizations in her 4th annual menstrual product drive, an initiative that aims to address the need for access to menstrual products in Senate District 52, which includes Broome, Cortland, and Tompkins Counties.
Webb has partnered with C-STEP, Downtown Ithaca Alliance, SUNY Cortland C4 and Binghamton Metro Doulas for the initiative.
Webb said that the drive reflects a community commitment to dignity, health and equity for residents of the Southern Tier region.
“As Chair of the Senate Women’s Issues Committee, I believe access to menstrual products is a basic necessity, not a luxury,” said Senator Lea Webb. “For far too many women and girls, the cost of period supplies creates significant barriers to attending school, working, and fully participating in their daily lives.”
In a press release, Corrie Root, Chief Operating Officer at the Downtown Ithaca Alliance (DIA), said access to basic needs like menstrual products are essential. The DIA opened the Menstrual Equity Center outside their office in Center Ithaca in 2023 in an effort to eliminate period poverty in Ithaca.
“The Downtown Ithaca Alliance facilitates the Menstrual Equity Center to guarantee equitable access to menstrual products — affirming that dignity and access to basic needs are not optional, but essential,” Root said.
Menstrual products such as pads, tampons, wipes and more can be dropped off through March 27 and will be distributed to community organizations in Senate District 52. Products can be donated at the following locations:
Senator Webb’s District Office, 217 N Aurora St., Ithaca, NY, 14850
Downtown Ithaca Alliance, 171 E M.L.K. Jr. St., Ithaca, NY 14850
C-STEP, Decker College, 48 Corliss Ave., Johnson City, NY 13790
Senator Webb’s District Office, 44 Hawley St., Binghamton, NY, 13901
SUNY Cortland, Sperry, Room 322, Cortland, NY 13045-0900
By Maddy Vogel
Community Science Institute, a local nonprofit and state-certified water testing laboratory, recently announced the launch of its Water Testing Assistance Program. The program looks to make reliable drinking water testing more accessible to local households facing financial hardship.
In a release, CSI Executive Director Dr. Grascen Shidemantle said clean, safe drinking water is a basic human need, but the cost of regulatory-quality testing can be a barrier for many local residents. The new program offers 50% off CSI’s in-house drinking water tests “for those facing financial stress,” and provides personalized testing recommendations from CSI staff to participants.
“Clean water is fundamental to public health, and cost should not prevent anyone from knowing if their water is safe to drink,” Shidemantle said. “This program helps empower residents to
protect their health and the health of their families.”
CSI said routine testing is the only way to ensure the safety of water for households on private wells. Tests check for harmful contaminants such as bacteria and nitrates. The program is supported by a community grant from the Rotary Club of Ithaca.
Individuals interested in participating can contact CSI directly or be referred by Tompkins County Whole Health’s Healthy Neighborhoods Program and Ithaca Neighborhood Housing Services (INHS).
To learn more, visit www.communityscience.org, call 607-257-6606, or email info@communityscience.org.
Community Science Institute is a statecertified water testing laboratory now offering assistance to local residents seeking drinking water tests. (Photo: CSI)
The Talk at
By Ithaca Times Readers
“For someone sleeping in a car or living with an abusive partner, the thought of leaving a dog or cat behind can make an already impossible decision feel unthinkable. In a national survey conducted by the Urban Resource Institute and the National Domestic Violence Hotline, 50% said they would not even consider seeking shelter if they couldn’t take their pets with them. Because most New York shelters don’t allow animals, this is the unfortunate reality that keeps many New Yorkers from seeking help.
California has taken a different approach. Through its Pet Assistance and Support Program, the state has funded pet-inclusive sheltering at more than 240 housing sites, including supporting facility upgrades, veterinary care, staffing, and insurance.
New York now has the opportunity to follow this model with two bills that are up for consideration: establishing a Housing People and Animals Together grant program (S. 673 / A. 1693) and a statewide co-shelter toolkit to guide implementation (S. 7612 / A. 8375).
For many of us including myself, pets are family. And no one should have to choose between safety and family. State lawmakers should pass and fund these bills this session, so New Yorkers can access shelter without the cost of leaving a loved one behind.” —
Hannah Weir, Ithaca
NY
“Congressman Josh Riley launched a formal inquiry into the rate practices of NYSEG and Central Hudson Gas & Electric.
Electric bills across our region have climbed to alarming levels, putting genuine financial pressure on working families. Those who rely on electric baseboard heating have felt the pinch most acutely, though households with heat pumps are struggling as well.
With this winter bringing particularly harsh temperatures, the burden has grown heavier. I’ve heard about residents in my area facing monthly power company bills exceeding $800. Some of them are either going into debt to pay the bills
or letting them go unpaid month after month, which could be disastrous to their credit ratings. Even more troubling are families who are being forced to choose between keeping the heat on and putting food on the table.
Against this backdrop, it was a relief to see Congressman Josh Riley taking concrete action. He launched a formal inquiry into the rate practices of NYSEG and Central Hudson Gas & Electric, challenged recent rate increases before the New York State Public Service Commission, and pushed for public hearings where affected customers can speak for themselves.
Riley also demanded that utilities provide transparent explanations for what's driving these costs — and raised pointed questions about whether a portion of the additional revenue is being funneled to the parent corporations that own these utilities. It is reassuring to know that at least one elected official is fighting to make sure everyday ratepayers have a voice. Now the question is whether state regulators will take notice and act.” — Cynthia Mannino, Trumansburg NY
Heights”: Come Undone with Emerald Fennell’s Malicious Masterpiece
“I greatly enjoyed reading Clement Obropta's review of the new Wuthering Heights film. He writes with informed insight, and a style that's fun to read. I loved the line about a stare "that would stop a crow's heart." It's a sneakily appropriate metaphor when the theme is gothic.
In the end, I learned two things that I hope to learn from any review: First, does the film have elements of good production and performance? (it seems so.) Secondly, do I want to watch it? (probably not.)
In a 2002 interview with the Ithaca Times, city alderperson and Cornell University student Peter Mack said,
“The Common Council should not necessarily be a political venue or a political war ground. It should be about people who work as a team to get things done.”
Thank you for publishing such high-caliber criticism.” — Leo Tohill, Ithaca NY
“LEADING THE CHANGE: WOMEN SHAPING A SUSTAINABLE FUTURE is the 2026 theme for National Women’s History Month, honoring women’s achievements in the intertwined fields of environmental, economic, and educational sustainability and social justice. With the advocacy of the National Women’s History Alliance behind it, National Women’s History Month was first celebrated as a weekly observance 1980, centered on International Women’s Day, March 8. Congress then declared March “Women’s History Month” in 1987. Now typically marked by proclamations, ceremonies, and activities from the federal level to local governments, the National Women’s History Alliance continues to provide a yearly theme and educational materials. Dr. Jalonne L. White-Newsome, first federal Chief Environmental Justice Officer 2022-25 is the featured speaker at the national NWHA/St. Johns special event in NY, NY on March 25.
New York can point with pride to the origins of Women’s History Month in the March 8, 1857 working women’s march in New York City. A commemorative US “National Women’s Day’ on February 28, 1909 became a rallying point for women workers around the world, with “International Women’s Day” first celebrated on March 8, 1911. New York State observes this month with special events across the state. New York can also point with pride to the nation’s 1848 First Women’s Rights Convention in Seneca Falls, NY, and to
By Marjorie Olds
David remembers the summer of 1980 when he fell in love with a camera in a shop window near his home. Every time he rode his bike by the camera shop his heart beat faster hoping that it would still be in the window. He started saving his money, little by little but didn’t have nearly enough to purchase the camera. Each week he would go into the little shop and ask the owner if the camera would someday be on sale, or if he could put it on layaway. “No, I want to sell it.” That’s all the owner would say. In August, David gave the shopkeeper what he had saved up and just asked him to hold the camera till his birthday. Maybe a relative would give David money as a gift.
At David’s 12th birthday party in early September when he opened his presents—there it was. The gorgeous German Rolleiflex camera he had been longing for such a long, long time. His parents went to the shop and paid off the remaining balance. Years later he would reflect what a great camera it was, with a really good lens. “There was magic in it.”
Growing up in the 80’s, David explains that most people bought Kodak film and when their roll was filled, they would drop it off at the camera shop to be developed. But he wanted to do something else—to build a Darkroom and learn how to develop his own pictures.
In ancient times before the Internet, David remembers seeing an ad in the back of a photography magazine. 42nd Street Photography in NYC sold Darkroom Processing Kits! When the big box arrived, David unpacked trays, chemicals, paper, film tanks and an Omega C-700 enlarger. He would be able to process, develop and enlarge his photos, once he had a Darkroom.
David’s parents still live in the 3-story home he and his two siblings grew up in around West Chester, PA. David’s father was a union electrician, who became a supervisor, and picked up all kinds of skills from the folks he supervised. David said his father was a “Jack of All Trades,”
By Warren Allmon
This past February 12 marked 20 years since Ithaca began a community-wide celebration of the birthday of Charles Darwin, who was born on that day in 1809. For the past two decades, the event has been organized by the Paleontological Research Institution. This year we brought back one of our features — a showing of the film Inherit the Wind at Cinemapolis. The classic 1960 movie is based on a play, written in the early 1950s by Jerome Lawrence and Robert E. Lee, which had its stage premier in Dallas, Texas in 1955 and soon moved to Broadway. When it closed there in 1957, it was the longest running drama in Broadway history.
1968. Evolution largely disappeared from American classrooms until the 1957 launch of Sputnik motivated a major reform of science education.
along with being a great father.
David and his father created a Darkroom on the third floor of their home.
His father designed it so that David, about 14 at the time, and the equipment could fit into the tiny closet that became the Darkroom. There was even room for the supplies he would use to wash the paper and the negatives in the process.
During high school, David joined the Photography Club which had a Darkroom and met other kids who had some of the same hankering for photography he had had as far back as he could remember.
“I’ve had an enduring fascination and love of photography my whole life,” he said.
After graduating from high school and joining the Navy, he was stationed in Rota, Spain, where every scene called out for a photograph.
“When I enlisted, we were given the regulation clothing we would wear, and our own clothing and personal effects were shipped back to our homes.” David could live without most of his things, but he knew in Rota, he had to buy a camera, and so he did.
David’s used Olympus OM10 cost $100 and had a 50mm and a zoom lens. He bought Kodak film at the Navy Exchange and took the finished rolls back there for developing. Many lovely walks in Rota were highlighted in his photos.
The play and film are loosely based on events that took place in July 1925 in Dayton, Tennessee, where a high school teacher named John Scopes was tried for violating a state statute that made it unlawful “to teach any theory that denies the story of the Divine creation of man as taught in the Bible, and to teach instead that man has descended from a lower order of animals”. Two of the most famous men in America, attorney Clarence Darrow, and three-time Presidential candidate William Jennings Bryan, were opposing counsel. The trial attracted enormous media attention around the world.
Many people who know the trial only from the play or the films may assume it is a more or less accurate account of events, but that is not the case. The playwrights did not intend the play as a historical document, but rather as a mirror, evoking a timelessness intended to resonate for all generations. Unlike what you see in the play and film, Scopes was never persecuted or jailed. Darrow did put Bryan on the witness stand, where he did admit that the “days” of Genesis were likely not 24 hours long. But Bryan was not a Biblical-literalist know-nothing. He became involved in the case largely because of his opposition to the misguided application of Darwinism to human eugenics and U.S. immigration laws. Evolution did not triumph; Scopes was convicted, and the law stood until
With such historical inaccuracies, why watch Inherit the Wind today? The play was written at the height of the Cold War and McCarthyism. Lawrence and Lee wanted to use the trial as a template to respond to the lack of tolerance and repression of freedoms of thought and ideas that they saw around them. The play, they wrote in the introduction to the script “is not history”. Their primary concern was freedom of speech and thought. Today we can cite our own cases of attempts to stifle intellectual freedom. Lawrence and Lee saw this with eerie clarity and prescience when they wrote in their play’s production notes: “The stage directions set the time as ‘Not too long ago.’ It might have been yesterday. It could be tomorrow.”
At the end of the second day of the Scopes Trial, July 13, 1925, Clarence Darrow said it better than perhaps anyone has since:
“If today you can take a thing like evolution and make it a crime to teach in the public schools, tomorrow you can make it a crime to teach it in the private schools and next year you can make it a crime to teach it to the hustings or in the church. At the next session you may ban books and the newspapers... Today it is the public school teachers; tomorrow the private. The next day the preachers and the lecturers, the magazines, the books, the newspapers. After a while, Your Honor, it is the setting of man against man and creed against creed until with flying banners and beating drums we are marching backward to the glorious ages of the sixteenth century when bigots lighted faggots to burn the men who dared to bring any intelligence and enlightenment and culture to the human mind.”
The play’s title comes from Proverbs 11:29, which in the King James Version reads:
“He that troubleth his own house shall inherit the wind: and the fool shall be servant to the wise of heart.”
Curated by Roy Allen: Director of Strategic Partnerships — Ithaca Times, Finger Lakes Community Newspapers, www.ithaca.com
Many voices have shaped the nation we call America. This week we feature former First Lady of the United States — Betty Ford — celebrating her advocacy for public education and early screening for breast cancer, which she herself was diagnosed with in 1974. Ford raised public awareness of early screening and treatment options and inspired women suffering from similar diagnoses. In 1975, she gave a landmark speech to the American Cancer Society. Ford’s remarks are published here in honor of her humility, courage and concern for others.
CURATOR’S NOTE: Ford continued her advocacy efforts by publicly admitting to her personal struggles with prescription drug and alcohol use and self-admittance to a rehab and recovery center — an experience that eventually led to the founding of the Betty Ford Clinic, a nonprofit drug and alcohol treatment center which has helped thousands of people suffering from dependency issues.
First Lady Betty Ford’s Remarks to the American Cancer Society
New York City: Friday, November 7, 1975
“I’m very glad to be here tonight, and that is not a line borrowed from someone. I feel absolutely marvelous. I just had my annual checkup and all my tests are completely clear. There is no sign whatsoever of a cancerous reoccurrence at this point. I am convinced that I am completely cured. Thanks to that checkup last September, good doctors, a loving supporting husband and understanding children — I can truly say this past year has been one of the richest years of my life. When I went into the operating room, that morning I had a pretty good premonition it was going to turn out to be a malignancy and that my breast would have to be removed. But once the operation was over, I was really very much
relieved. I felt the doctors had removed the cancer at such an early stage that I was very lucky and would have no more problems. The most difficult moments, matter of fact, were trying to pull my family through my cancer operation. I really had to pull them through, and to try to make them happy because they were so sad and upset. The malignancy was something my husband never expected, and he couldn't believe it was happening to me. The whole family were so depressed. I think their surprise was a very natural reaction, because one day I appeared to be fine and the next day, the very next day, I was in the hospital for a mastectomy. This made me realize how many women in the country could be in exactly the same situation. That realization made me decide to discuss my breast cancer operation openly, because I thought of all the many lives in jeopardy. My experience and frank discussion of breast cancer did prompt many women to learn about self-examination, regular checkups, and such detection techniques as mammography. These are so important. I just cannot stress enough how necessary it is for women to take an active interest in their own health and their own body.
Too many women are so afraid of breast cancer that they endanger their
By Elizabeth Keokosky
Watching AI within our current environment feels like watching a train wreck about to happen. We’ve all seen the close-to-home energy figures for the proposed Lansing data center. It starts off needing 50MW, with the top limit going to 400MW. On the national level, the Berkeley Laboratory — sponsored and used by the Department of Energy — predicts that data center energy consumption will triple from 2023 to 2028. How can the world handle scenarios like this and still even fantasize about meeting critical UN Paris Agreement goals of reducing global greenhouse gas emissions 50% by 2030?
From an environmental point of view, the great hesitation is — can AI somehow, as its advocates say — do its magic, as it grows and matures, and pull together all the data and tell us what is happening and how to avoid all the tipping points and disastrous decisions, both locally and globally? Can it make us into better human beings? Will we do what we wouldn’t do otherwise because AI tells us to?
Do we even have the time to wait? Time to wait for AI technology to get sophisticated enough to actually protect the planet? Time to reverse Trump’s executive dismantlement of so many environmental protections and advances?
Though it certainly has value for important areas, such as healthcare and logistics, AI’s track record for ethical and moral outcomes is not good. It continues to eliminate jobs which give people income, purpose, and meaning. It directly and indirectly increases the gap between rich and poor. The billions thrown at corporations by this administration’s decreasing corporate taxes, has created an investment frenzy (completely unregulated) that feeds on wealth for wealth’s sake. Basic needs like food, housing, health, and education are the losers to the increasingly huge expenses of technology. We have seen Trump cut budgets to SNAP and Medicaid insurance for vulnerable people. AI also has all the hall marks–like social media–of becoming another contributor to the increase in misinformation, polarized politics, and the dangerous kinds of exposure no mother would want for her children. Immersion in AI’s virtual reality already sows seeds of illusion and distrust
of what is real and what isn’t.
MAGA and Trump want to Make America Great Again. This catch phrase was the campaign slogan for the Reagan Republican presidency in 1980 when he ran against then-president, Jimmy Carter. Reagan claimed we needed a return to traditional values. Conservatives feared the rapid change that was happening in the 60s and 70s. Like many of the other transformative value shifts affecting black lives, women’s lives, and so many others, our treatment of other species gained the public eye with the 1962 publishing of Rachel Carson’s “The Silent Spring.” It was an exposé of DDT’s dangerous effect on us all, and a seminal book for the environmental movement.
But then, as now, politics was oiled by the economy. In 1979, an energy crisis, a consequence of the Iranian Revolution led by Ayatollah Khomeini, cut the global oil supply. Gas prices doubled, lines formed at gas stations, and there was intense inflationary pressure. Iranian militants seized the U.S. embassy in Tehran and took 52 Americans hostage. The result was a failed rescue attempt and a humiliating 444-day diplomatic standoff. The hostages were only released when Reagan became president, when he unfroze $8 billion in Iranian assets. Something Carter refused to do. Today the Trump administration is pursuing a "maximum production" oil strategy and has even seized Venezuelan oil. Where the profits are going is still in question. But cheap oil will not make us great again and I’m pretty sure we can’t count on AI to save us. We need to do something both simpler and harder. People are beginning to realize we need to change ourselves. This time deeper and more fundamentally than the change we’ve made so far. We need to understand and feel within ourselves that humans are not outside the natural world, but completely and wholly within it. When we harm the natural world, we are in reality harming ourselves. A part of this continuing value shift is to recognize that our human economics — to exist sustainably — must exist within Earth’s economics. Over-use of fossil fuels, uncontrolled growth, and our dysfunctional role on the planet prove that. we cannot continue to steal habitats
By Steve Lawrence
Once again, “overlap season” is upon us, and one can — in the course of an afternoon and an evening — shiver in the bleachers at a lacrosse or softball game then shed a few layers and watch a basketball game in the warm confines of an indoor arena. With so many overlapping story lines in play, I will take a look at a few of them this week.
First, the Ithaca’s boy’s hockey team took the ice against the team from the Broome County schools to play for the Section IV title. The game was played at The Rink in Lansing, and the place was not quite standing room only, but it was close. What was not close was the game, as Griffin Levine — one of 15 seniors on this year’s team — put one in the net early in
the first period, then picked up his second point of the game when he assisted on goal #2 soon thereafter. The visitors were a bit shell-shocked to go down by two so early, but the Little Red just kept the pressure on. It was 4-0 heading into the third period, and that deficit had already taken the wind out of Broome’s sails. Two more goals would seal it at 6-0, and Ithaca will take their momentum into next weekend’s opening round of the States, which will also be played at The Rink on Sunday. Puck drops at 2:45.
Backing up...on Friday, I attended the Cornell Hockey Coaches’ Club luncheon, and at each of these gatherings, the head coach offers a power point review of the most recent games, answers a few questions, then talks about the upcoming games. When head coach Casey Jones started explaining
the dizzying array of moving parts and possible playoff match ups, I found myself in a state of confusion. After the home wins against St. Lawrence on Friday, and Clarkson on Saturday, my head was cleared out a little.
On Friday night, the Big Red rolled over St. Lawrence by a score of 5-1, and when Clarkson came into the rink on Saturday,
there was an added layer of dynamics. You see, Jones was the head man at Clarkson for 13 years before coming back to Cornell at the beginning of last season, and thus recruited–and coached–many of their current players. None of that mattered when the
Continued on Page 25
Imagine the sharpest, most passionate young journalists you’ve ever met (the ones who stay late chasing a story because they believe in this town) slowly packing their bags. Not because they want to leave… but because local rents force them out.
That’s the quiet heartbreak happening right now. Our best new writers, the ones who grew up here or fell in love with Ithaca in college, are being pushed toward cheaper cities just to survive.
The Rising Star Fund rewrites their story into a happy ending by sponsoring a simple monthly housing stipend (a hand up, never a handout) so they can keep living here, keep writing here, keep falling deeper in love with Ithaca… and keep telling the stories that make this city our home.
When a young journalist can afford to stay in Ithaca, you get:
● Fresh, fearless voices loyal to your local paper
● Someone at every city council meeting who believes local news matters
● The next great Ithaca story written by someone who actually lives here
● Your $25, $50, or $100 a month doesn’t just pay their rent.
● It keeps storytellers in our community and stops local brain drain.
● When our younger generation thrives, Ithaca’s future stays bright.
Keep local talent in Ithaca by donating today to the Rising Star Fund (an initiative of Pathways to Equity, Inc a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization)
For more info: roy@ithacatimes.com
By Philip O’Dell
In response to President Donald Trump’s State of the Union call for Congress to abolish sanctuary cities, Tompkins County’s leaders are reaffirming its sanctuary status and commitments to immigrant communities.
In his Feb. 24 address, Trump called for an end to sanctuary cities, claiming they protect dangerous criminals and proposing severe penalties for officials who obstruct the deportation of noncitizens.
“That is why I’m also asking you to end deadly sanctuary cities that protect the criminals and enact serious penalties for public officials who block the removal of criminal aliens, in many cases drug lords, murderers all over our country,” Trump said. “They’re blocking the removal of these people out of our country.”
Since returning to office in 2025, President Trump has renewed threats to withhold billions in federal law enforcement grants from cities and states that refuse to cooperate with federal immigration authorities. This move echoes his 2017 attempt that was ultimately struck down by the courts.
While no strict definition of “sanctuary cities” exists, the Vera Institute of Justice describes them as jurisdictions that protect noncitizens by limiting local cooperation with federal immigration authorities and prohibiting local police from participating in federal-led detention or deportation efforts. Sanctuary policies protect individuals from being detained solely over their immigration status, but do not shield them from arrest or prosecution for criminal offenses. According to the institute, sanctuary policies comply with federal law, as the 10th Amendment generally prohibits the federal government from forcing local jurisdictions to perform immigration enforcement.
In February 2025, the Ithaca Common Council passed a resolution reaffirming its sanctuary city status—originally established in 2017—to limit local cooperation with federal immigration enforcement and protect residents’ access to reproductive and gender-affirming care ahead of anticipated federal crackdowns.
When asked for comment on the potential impact of federal funding cuts, Alan Karasin, the City’s public information officer, declined to provide a new statement, instead referring the Ithaca Times to another local outlet’s previous reporting. Karasin said it remains uncertain how potential shifts in federal funding might impact Ithaca.
Other than Ithaca and Tompkins County, sanctuary jurisdictions in New York state include the cities of New York, Buffalo, Albany, and Rochester, and the counties of Albany and Westchester.
In response to the president’s threat of serious penalties for sanctuary policies, Legislature Chair Shawna Black stated that
“If more concrete federal actions occur in the future, we will be in a better position to assess the situation and share clear information with the community,” Karasin said.
Tompkins County established its “Public Safety For All” framework in 2017, prohibiting the use of county resources for federal civil immigration enforcement— including stopping or detaining individuals based solely on immigration status— while explicitly allowing cooperation for criminal investigations, terrorism threats, or when federal agents provide a judicial warrant.
the county remains committed to its welcoming status by operating within its legal rights and maintaining transparent communication with constituents.
Black affirmed the county remains committed to its 2017 resolution, which established a framework for maintaining a safe and inclusive government while prioritizing the health and well-being of all Tompkins County residents. Black said the legislature will navigate any federal policy changes as they arise, working through the resulting issues and addressing them.
When asked if the county would raise local taxes or alter sanctuary policies to compensate for withheld federal funding, Black said the legislature would evaluate
the impacted programs and explore ways to fill budgetary gaps.
“We are a strong community full of generous people and hard-working non-profits,” Black said. “We have also been fiscally responsible for many years and when we are faced with adversity, we are able to manage it. During the pandemic we were one of the first counties in the state to offer COVID testing and vaccines.” “I have no doubt that if we were faced with difficult situations our community would come together and we would be stronger for it,” Black said.
In a statement to the Ithaca Times, County Administrator Korsah Akumfi said the State of the Union address allows a president to outline specific priorities, but the speech does not constitute a formal change in federal law or policy. Akumfi said federal actions on immigration enforcement or funding need formal legislative or administrative action, which the county intends to evaluate should they materialize.
“As the administrator overseeing County departments, my focus remains on ensuring that County government operates in compliance with applicable laws while maintaining public safety, protecting constitutional rights, and delivering essential services to our residents,” Akumfi said.
Tompkins County Sheriff Derek Osborne confirmed that his office does not participate in the arrest of undocumented individuals, explaining that immigration enforcement falls strictly under federal jurisdiction and that the 10th Amendment prevents local law enforcement from being compelled to perform such federal duties.
Sheriff Derek Osborne clarified that federal pressure regarding sanctuary policies would not affect collaborative efforts like the Gun Involved Violence Elimination (GIVE) initiative, noting that the program is funded by a state grant and focuses exclusively on local crime and gun violence rather than immigration enforcement.
Sheriff Derek Osborne confirmed that the Tompkins County Jail does not honor ICE detainers or hold individuals beyond their local sentencing periods.
“ICE detainers are not legally binding and are typically only signed by an ICE officer,” Osborne said. “We follow NYS Law and our local sanctuary policy.”
Osborne clarified that while his office does not obstruct federal agents from serving active warrants at any time, local deputies will not perform immigration enforcement duties on their behalf.
“We do not experience many criminal matters locally involving immigrants,” Osborne said. “We rarely see an immigrant incarcerated in our local jail.” A 2017 study by the Center for American Progress found sanctuary counties have lower crime rates and stronger local economies than comparable non-sanctuary ones. Researchers determined sanctuary counties averaged 35.5 fewer crimes per 10,000 residents. Sanctuary jurisdictions saw higher median household incomes, lower poverty rates, and reduced unemployment, suggesting limited local entanglement in federal immigration enforcement fosters greater community trust and economic engagement.
According to the National Immigration Law Center, a 2017 study published in Urban Affairs Review found no statistically significant link between sanctuary policies and increased crime rates. Researchers compared sanctuary and non-sanctuary jurisdictions from 2000 through 2014 and found no significant difference in rates of violent crime, property crime, or rape. The report suggests these policies may help police by encouraging undocumented residents to cooperate with law enforcement without fear of deportation.
Ithaca Welcomes Refugees Executive Director Casey Verderosa challenged the administration’s characterization of sanctuary cities, asserting that data shows lower crime rates in such jurisdictions compared to non-sanctuary areas.
Native-born U.S. citizens were 26% more likely to be convicted of homicide than undocumented immigrants between 2013 and 2022, according to a 2025 Cato Institute study. Analyzing a decade of data from the Texas Department of Public Safety, the report found that the homicide conviction rate for U.S. citizens was 3.0 per 100,000 residents, compared to 2.2 for undocumented immigrants and 1.2 for legal immigrants.
A 2023 study from the Stanford Institute for Economic Policy Research found that immigrants are 60% less likely to be incarcerated than native-born U.S. citizens, a gap that remains significant even when compared specifically to U.S.-born white individuals, who are 30% more likely to be imprisoned than foreign-born counterparts.
According to the American Immigration Council, from 1980 to 2022 shows that as the immigrant share of the U.S. population has more than doubled, the national crime rate plummeted by over 60 percent.
Verderosa said Trump’s rhetoric regarding criminal activity among immigrants is factually incorrect and socially irresponsible, as it fosters public suspicion and hostility toward those who appear or sound foreign.
“What people decide to do with these lies has real impact on IWR’s refugee and immigrant partners’ sense of safety in the place that was supposed to be their reprieve from oppression,” Verderosa said. “Many of our partners, who underwent comprehensive vetting in order to come to the US, are suffering from terrible anxiety.”
Verderosa said potential federal penalties against sanctuary jurisdictions could jeopardize essential public systems that refugees utilize for housing and food security during their initial resettlement. While Verderosa noted that reliance on such assis-
tance typically decreases as families secure employment, she said current public benefits are already insufficient to cover the high cost of local housing without supplemental aid from the organization. The potential loss of these federal resources would not only devastate families during their vulnerable first months in the country but would also place an unsustainable financial burden on the nonprofit’s internal resources.
Verderosa said IWR is concerned with a proposed federal rule to indefinitely pause applications for asylum-based work permits. She said the inability to work would make it impossible for individuals with valid asylum claims to survive nationwide. In response to the proposal, IWR urges the public to submit formal comments to the Federal Register to express opposition to the rule.
“The president’s anti-immigrant and anti-sanctuary city rhetoric has actually galvanized support for organizations like IWR,” Verderosa said. “This community has become defiant in the face of tyranny, rather than being intimidated into meekness, and on behalf of our refugee partners, I am so proud and so grateful.”
Since starting his second term, Trump has directed U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement to prioritize mass deportation operations within Democrat-led “sanctuary” cities like New York, Los Angeles, and Chicago. Trump accused local leaders of shielding undocumented immigrants to manipulate elections.
Since December 2025, a massive federal immigration crackdown in Minnesota’s Twin Cities led to thousands of arrests and the fatal shootings of U.S. citizens Renée Good and Alex Pretti by federal agents, sparking national outrage and widespread protests, including one on Jan. 30 in Ithaca.
In and around Tompkins County, residents have observed federal immigration operations taking place. In January 2025, ICE agents used rental vehicles to conduct raids in Ithaca and Dryden, resulting in at least one confirmed arrest and sparking widespread concern across the county. Another federal operation was reported in June 2025 with the early-morning arrest of 10 farmworkers in Tioga County who were reportedly employed at a farm in neighboring Newfield.On Feb. 11, ICE agents detained several individuals during a pair of morning traffic stops in Spencer, according to accounts from multiple bystanders. The operations, carried out in unmarked vehicles, targeted two separate motorists along Ithaca Road. Witnesses reported seeing federal officers—clad in black masks and olive-drab vests—intercept a minivan near the Linda Lane intersection and a larger white vehicle further down the road at Eleanor Lane. One local resident observed a blacked-out SUV with obscured plates blockading an Indiana-registered minivan near Eleanor Lane. According to the witness, the scene was flanked by a black pickup truck and Spencer Police Chief Michael Monteiro. Another witness took video footage after ICE agents had left the scene that shows Monteiro staying with the empty minivan until a tow truck arrived to remove the vehicle.
Following the June 2025 detainments in Spencer, ICE released the individuals’ names to the Ithaca Times on Aug. 8, after which the Times informed the agency that the names were not in ICE’s online detainee locator system. An ICE spokesperson told the Times on Sep. 23 that the individuals had all been transported out of the country within two months of their arrests.
By Kira Walter
Documentation isn’t a passive form of activism. Unlike boycotting, donations, or signing petitions, capturing unrest on film and translating it for a national audience means engaging with risk. Leaping into active protests, uncovering and publicizing hushed issues makes the creator a target. As police brutality, mass incarceration and systematic racism are intentionally neglected by the U.S. government, producer Ira McKinley exposes impact on Black communities through the camera. Narratives of resilience, justice, and solidarity celebrate interviewees while drawing attention to a need for vital institutional reform.
So as Black History Month concluded, his documentaries were screened at the Cherry Arts on Feb. 28 at 2 p.m. In partnership with the Ithaca Times, the screening featured McKinley’s debut production, “The Throwaways,” and award winner “Outta The Muck,” with a sneak peak at his upcoming project. The 15 minute preview of “A Tale Of Two Journeys” was followed by a brief Q&A about the potential for more creative spaces and a need to prioritize future generations.
“It’s so important to nurture our young people in Ithaca. I think we’ve gotten away from that a little bit. Ithaca used to be about the child. Now I see adults piggy-backing off each other benefiting themselves,” said radio show host and local activist Ricky Milton.
A fellow Ithaca native with long-time family roots in the area, Milton commended the filmmaker on being a product of what Ithaca used to be, a town more concentrated on inspiring its children. He emphasized the importance of McKinley’s films while young adults come into increased competition and hardships.
The Throwaways speaks fiercely to that sense of demand: the next generation is threatened by the same flawed criminal justice system, the cycle of suffering that impacted parents and grandparents. The debut film released 16 years ago begins in Albany, where entire blocks are abandoned in predominantly black neighborhoods because of wrongful arrests and early casualties. The disparity there gets worse as streets get emptier and more lives are claimed by a racist police force. A native Ithacan, McKinley’s own father was shot and killed by officers when he was only 14. The same authorities that murdered his guardian imprisoned him after years of anticipation. He was forced to serve a three year sentence, and once identified as a felon, he struggled to find employment.
The movie’s title is inspired by the concept that the American legal system throws away some lives, dehumanizes people with committed felonies, and makes it impossible for them to join society. As a “throwaway,” McKinley endured homelessness before and during his experience behind the camera. At community centers, he was able to pick up camera-work, and eventually use his creative lens to convey the discrimination he faced with countless other Black Americans. Though recognized at regional and national festivals, “The Throwaways” has a local focus, even revisiting the death of Ithaca community member Shawn Greenwood, who was killed by Ithaca Police in 2010.
While McKinley’s first film was centered in his home town and state, his next project “Outta The Muck” transported the audience to Pahokee, Florida, where his family is originally from. Brought to Sundance in 2019, the documentary came out in 2022 after the producer and his support team resided in the south during production. Featuring a series of relatives, the movie spotlights a town able to push their children forward through high school football. Pahokee’s infamously talented varsity team gives 70% of seniors the opportunity to play the sport in college — with championships, rivalries, and town spirit, the
By Mikayla Rovenolt
The Busking for Justice music series continues on Friday, March 6, with a featured performance by Ithacabased folk artist Joe Crookston. The community fundraising concert takes place at Café DeWitt in downtown Ithaca’s DeWitt Mall from 5:30 to 7:00 p.m. Admission is free, with donations encouraged to support immigrants and their families facing the impacts of detention and deportation.
The Busking for Justice series was started by Jayne Demakos, initially to raise money for World Central Kitchen and Loaves and Fishes in response to the Ukraine war and to support local food resources.
Demakos, a local musician, was able to start Busking for Justice using her ties to the local music community. The series is put on thanks to her work and that of Sheila Payne, Laurie Konwinski and Saoirse McClory. Together, the group selects musicians to contact and put together advertising for events. In a statement, the group said that Busking for Justice is “rooted in the belief that music can unite, inspire, and mobilize, Busking for Justice brings artists and audiences together in a spirit of generosity, shared humanity, and solidarity.”
The shift to immigrant support came
Café DeWitt in the DeWitt Mall 215 N Cayuga St., Ithaca, NY Friday, March 6, 5:30 to 7 p.m. Free admission, donations encouraged.
after Demakos and Konwinski met and started having conversations about supporting the local immigrant community.
“Laurie and Jane had a conversation about shifting the focus and helping local immigrants who were needing help with legal fees,” McClory said in an interview with the Ithaca Times. “And just our concern about people being arrested at their immigration appointments and not having them access to legal legal support, we saw this gap there.”
McClory said that the funds raised from this concert series is going to help people who have been detained with family and legal fees.
“I think some people may have a sense that it’s only people who are criminals who are being arrested, and in our experience, that’s not the case,” McClory said. “Folks who we’re supporting with this money are people showing up for their immigration meetings…We want to lift up the very human stories of who are affected by these ICE raids.”
The March 6 performer, Crookston, is widely recognized as an “artistic song-storyteller,” known for narrative songwriting, humor, and multi-instrumental musicianship in his performances that engages audiences.
According to a statement, Crookston was “personally invited by songwriter Gordon Lightfoot to open concerts on his final U.S. tour, Crookston has also headlined major festivals including Kerrville Folk Festival and the Philadelphia Folk Festival. A recipient of Folk Alliance International’s Album of the Year honor, he released his most recent album, Nine Becomes One, in 2025.”
Crookston alternates between fiddle, slide guitar, and storytelling, creating
a shared musical experience rooted in connection and compassion. A longtime Ithaca resident who tours across the United States, Ireland, and Canada, he brings both international recognition and deep local roots to the March performance. McClory added that local musicians are now reaching out to the group and interested in getting involved “which is wonderful,” McClory said. Additional upcoming performances in the spring
series include 14Strings! (Filipino style Rondalla) on April 3, Lavine and the Flying Machine (klezmer and Yiddish swing) May 1 and Colleen Kattau (vocals, guitar & djembe from the heart) on June 5.
“We’re hugely grateful,” McClory said. “I would like to share how grateful we are to all the incredible musicians over the last several months. This particular series began last September, and people have just been extraordinarily generous.”
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Years later, he had gone to college in Pennsylvania and Florida, worked in the movie industry in Los Angeles, and relocated to Austin, Texas. David and his wife Meg moved to Ithaca in 2019. Work-
ing as an Associate Director at eCornell, he started his days early in the South Hill Business Campus. “I am now a Senior Video Producer and work with a great team and our space in SHBC has worked out great.”
But for quite a while, maybe decades since he and his father created the darkroom in their home, David has wanted to build another darkroom.
“I had this hankering for a darkroom where we could build community for folks interested in photography—all ages, from all backgrounds, at all skill levels,” David said.
“The darkroom can create opportunities to enhance the photography community, and we can offer classes and workshops.”
Down a long, industrial hallway, someone new to the SHBC may be surprised by
the colorful, engaging, entrancing Artist Alley with 50+ artists’ studios. What a setting for David’s new venture adjacent to these studios.
And now David Keslick’s The Ithaca Darkroom opened February 28, in the South Hill Business Campus building Linda Luciano and Andy Sciarabba created so many years ago. www.ithacadarkroom.com
By Barbara Adams
In this college town, audiences will recognize familiar settings, situations, and themes in “Milkweed,” Wendy Dann’s intriguing and ambitious new play at the Kitchen Theatre. In an intimate, starstudded space, two parallel stories unfold: intimate professor-student exchanges that explore the nature of learning and the complexity of our choices.
Set at an Ivy-League university, the two animated conversations reflect the enduring two-cultures conflict between art and science. In her tiny office, a professor of acting (Erica Steinhagen) tries to persuade her undergrad student (Jeremiah Jobe), a physics major fed up with his field, not to seek a career in acting. Elsewhere, in a stately home perched above a watery gorge, a physicist (David McElwee) debates theories of time and space with a bright graduate student in acting (Bella Woody), who’s taking his course as an elective. Both scenes occupy the stage simultaneously: art aptly at left, science at right. And the environment surrounding them embodies their talk — off-white orbs in the dark floor and rear wall suggesting endless stars or multiverses or even quantum particles; water cascading; a backpack spinning into space; ethereal and other-worldly tones floating past. Altogether a splendid team of designers: David L. Arsenault’s setting, Tyler M. Perry’s lighting and projection, and Ariana Cardoza’s sound.
It’s a handsome context for this world premiere, which Emily Jackson thoughtfully directs. She and Dann collaborated during the three weeks of rehearsal, con-
by Wendy Dann. Directed by Emily Jackson and featuring Jeremiah Jobe, David McElwee, Erica Steinhagen, and Bella Woody. At the Kitchen Theatre, 417 W. State St, Ithaca. Performances Wednesdays through Saturday March 14 at 7:00 p.m. and 2:00 p.m. matinees on March 5, 8, and 15. Tickets at 607-272-0570 or kitchentheatre.org/tickets.
A series of post-show talkbacks at the Kitchen is free and open to the public (show attendance not required):
Fri. March 6, 8:30 p.m. — Meet the Artists Talkback
Sat. March 7, 8:30 p.m. — Monarchs and Milkweed, with Dr. Anurag Agrawal
Sun. March 8, 3:30 p.m. — Physics in Milkweed, with Wendy Dann and Dr. Kelley Sullivan
Thurs. March 12, 8:30 p.m. — A New Play Takes Flight: Launching a World Premiere, with Wendy Dann and Emily Jackson
tinuing to develop and revise the play. Most new work emerges as tender, not yet solidified, and this initial run, along with the post-show audience talkbacks, will suggest further developments. What I saw opening night may not be the same show at the last performance (reinforcing the scientific idea of continual and unpredictable change).
That said, I was both fascinated and somewhat lost, trying to keep up with the discussion of physics. (This may be easier for Dann, coming, as indeed the acting professor does, from a family of scientists.)
A lot of theories are tossed out fairly quickly, and they also (appropriately) serve a metaphoric function, and deciphering the first to arrive at the second risks losing the moment. The feeling is a bit “everything everywhere all at once” — too much to consider too rapidly. (That said, a scientist might likely respond differently to this.)
What’s necessary, as in Stoppard’s “Arcadia,” is not so much that we fully grasp higher mathematics and the second law of thermodynamics but that we understand how these shape the meaning of his narrative. Here, further translating the abstract concepts might better include the lessinformed audience, who may not all be up on Hawking’s notion of spherical time.
David McElwee’s physicist, at 35, is a rising star — well played with assurance, geniality, and the requisite bit of vanity. He’s anxious about an upcoming TV series he’s hosting and apparently has asked his acting student to give him presentation tips. If this reminds you of a local celebrity, his student feels likewise: observing he lives suspended over a waterfall, she gushes “Wow…you’re like the new Carl Sagan.”
Bella Woody’s grad student is a heady presence — strikingly attractive, with dazzling energy and a vigorous intellect. Even her soft casual attire is appealing. (Comfortable campus wear throughout by Stefanie Genda.) So it’s surprising that the physicist resists her pull (though she’s not overtly flirting) as long as he does. It also seems that her wild enthusiasm and cheerfulness (do grad students really smile so much? or was my own experience unusually dour?) sound more like an undergrad than a woman of 27.
The physicist tries to convince her she should consider pursuing physics; it’s not too late — especially when time is relative and alternate outcomes so possible. In the parallel universe nearby, it’s the obverse: the acting professor tries to dissuade a budding physicist from acting (“You want to major in jumping on the furniture?”) Erica Steinhagen plays her prof as more uninhibited and sarcastic than the script seems to warrant, but the effect does suggest she’s letting boundaries drop. And in wordplay on Hawking’s “no-boundary” theory, the university’s rules about student-teacher interactions are transgressed here (even given that theater training is rather hands-on). The acting professor and Jeremiah Jobe’s articulate, assertive student mutually cross the prescribed line.
In both worlds onstage, we have students teaching and directing the motions of their mentors. The grad student coaching at her professor’s home is the less surprising; the physics undergrad leading his prof through a closed-eyes exercise while she lies on the floor of her closed-door office is more questionable. Might this really happen?
What’s more convincing is that gradually all four reveal personal details of their
lives, disclosing the often hard-to-discuss experiences that shaped them. These lived moments are the fixed points, the bits of time-bound reality that persist in clear counterpoint to the vast notions of time and space the play invokes.
Another thread the play addresses also succeeds admirably: investigating the student/teacher dynamic. The story materializes educator Paulo Freire’s “pedagogy of love” — the passionate thirst for knowledge and for sharing that quest. Here, in desiring to emulate and “be” their professors, both young people mistake their emotion for physical desire. But the professors, knowing their role in facilitating growth, halt — re-direct — their advances, in a mature (and one wonders how infrequent) act of self-denial.
In the play’s last scene, when all four characters’ trajectories intersect, the mentors have exchanged places. And among other coincidental outcomes, Jobe most persuasively delivers the speech the physicist was initially struggling with. The paths have come full circle.
Where does “Milkweed” come into this concept-laden narrative? At the play’s very midpoint, when the acting professor speculates on milkweed as the food necessary to nourish a generation of monarch butterflies, who then move on to more stops in their long migration north. Like the milkweed, the educators are a way station; their legacy the subsequent generations. At its core, “Milkweed” celebrates the joy of sharing knowledge.
Barbara Adams is a regional theatre and arts journalist and retired professor of writing, Ithaca College.
separation between the garage and residences.
P. Christopher Dirr, a consultant with Rockabill Consulting and Development, said the project prioritizes security and specialized housing. The design features a secure residential entrance separate from the commercial space, with fob-controlled access for residents. A total of 18 units— roughly 30% of the building—are dedi-
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the 1856 discovery by one of its attendees, Eunice Newton Foote, that CO2 could lead to climate warming.
Who are the women of history and today who lead efforts for a sustainable future in Tompkins County? Lucy J. Brown’s leadership in economic sustainability and social justice is memorialized by her statue, but will we know her name and others’ 46 years from now? National
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lives. These fears of being “less” of a woman are very real, and it is important to talk about the emotional side effects honestly. They must come out into the open. It was easier for me to accept the operation, because I had been married for 26 years and we had four children. There was no problem of lack of love, affection, and attention. But some women don’t have these same emotional resources, and
cated to supportive services managed by Catholic Charities of Tompkins and Tioga. Dirr said the exterior features a neutral color scheme primarily composed of “timeless” charcoal grays and beiges, while bright green highlights will give the design a modern, energetic feel. Visum seeks color patterns that will endure, avoiding becoming dated.
Rollman said the board has learned to demand detailed plans be in place following issues at affordable housing projects, such as Asteri and Ithaca Arthaus. Rollman questioned if developers can follow
Women’s History Month is a great opportunity to dig a little deeper into local history for female leaders, past and present.” — Vivien Rose, Trumansburg NY
“The president who ran on no more wars has started a brand-new war. This is after bombing eight countries. In the lead up to this conflict, we heard that various military and intelligence sources were against attacking Iran. But apparently it is more important what the leaders of Israel
it is very necessary to deal realistically with the fears about breast cancer.
It isn’t vanity to worry about disfigurement. It is an honest concern. I started wearing low-cut dresses as soon as the scar healed, and my worries about my appearance are now just the normal ones of staying slim and keeping my hair kempt and the make-up in order. When I asked myself whether I would rather lose a right arm or a breast, I decided I would rather have lost a breast.
The most important thing in life is
place of pride and unity, where residents take ownership of their stories and identity.
through on their promises, pointing out that Asteri and Ithaca Arthaus have struggled because key management components were either undefined or ignored.
Rollman noted the Downtown Ithaca Development Corporation, which operates the Ithaca Downtown Conference Center inside the Asteri building, filed a lawsuit against building’s owners, Vecino Group, for alleged mismanagement. Following a months-long investigation into illegal weapons and narcotics, Ithaca police recently executed several arrest warrants at the Arthaus development on
and Saudi Arabia believe. They lobbied Trump for a week to attack.
As of today, we have had five different reasons for the war. We had been in talks with Iran, and it is reported that they were willing to give up their nuclear ambitions. The next day we start lobbying missiles and bombs on Iran. We killed the supreme leader, who was not a good guy. But they have been prepared for this situation for years. This is a nation of 79 million Shia Muslims. They are the originators of the suicide bomber.
In our democracy, the only way we can
good health! And that I have! That is the medical side. Cancer also produces fear — and much of that fear comes from ignorance about the progress already made and ignorance of the need for preventive medicine for men and women alike. Cancer wherever it strikes the body, also strikes the spirit, and the best doctors in the world cannot cure the spirit. Only love and understanding can accomplish this important role. All of us can give love and support to our friends who have cancer. We can open our hearts
Cherry Street.
According to Visum CEO Todd Fox, projects like The Citizen thrive through partnerships with local nonprofits like the Arbor Group, which is currently collaborating on the Stately Project.
“We’re trying to do more affordable housing projects,” Fox said. “We want to be able to create these legacy buildings that people can live in long-term that start out with a great reputation and maintain a great reputation, so it’s something that’s important to us and having the right team is going to be critical.”
go to war is with declaration from Congress. This war began with a social media video. As of today, our president still has not spoken to the American people. He had time for a fund raiser in Florida. He put out another social media video to tell us we lost three troops and the war might last four weeks.
I hope for the lives of our troops that we don’t run out of air defense missiles and the war ends shortly. Current polling has 25% of Americans in favor of this war. Is this what you voted for?” — Dennis Brady, Waverly NY
and our minds to dealing with the fears that the victims have, and also the fears many of us have of the disease itself. I believe we are all here to help each other and that our individual lives have patterns and purposes. My illness turned out to have a very special purpose — helping save other lives, and I am grateful for what I was able to do.” Next week, we will celebrate Barbara Jordan, Congressperson from Texas — the first Black Woman to deliver the keynote address to the Democrat National Committee in 1976�
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pressure is on for young people taking athletics to the next level.
While the film doesn’t focus overtly on racism, it challenges stereotypes about Black communities with inside perspective and drawing power from history. Despair is fought with love after tragic storm surges and family passings. Neighbors support one another as success is a product of community care, not just individual achievement. Everyone is dedicated to mutual aid, whether cooking together, helping each other through the stages of education, or pulling through for young athletes. It’s a
Following “Outta The Muck,” audience members were treated to a quick snippet of McKinley’s upcoming work. “A Tale Of Two Journeys” follows Ithaca’s history with the Underground railroad through interviews with local Reverend Terrence A. King, archaeology student Michaela Williamson, and Kenneth B Morris Jr., the direct descendent of both Booker T. Washington and Frederick Douglas. The work sample is publicly available and provides insight into the next production, which the director anticipates will take another three to four years before reaching the public.
ket” he hopes to begin in Ithaca. Building for future populations and laying strong groundwork for more innovation are key themes in his films, so it only makes sense that he’s thinking ahead for this community too.
“My goal right now is trying to have something for artists,” McKinley said. “There’s a platform here. This is the start. A lot of people are doing something creative and they need help.”
He spoke about the space around the Cherry Arts, thanking executive director Sam Buggeln for founding the space.
drive up community involvement, creating more conversation and collaboration.
“You do a people’s market, you bring the artists out and you do it cheaply with the people’s power. That way they’ll be more invested in the project,” he told the Times.
Thinking about distribution of power, and drawing from his experience with and without a team of other filmatographers, the producer reiterated how much more effective movement is when it comes from groups.
“The people won’t allow nonsense. They’ll create art for everybody. But if there’s one entity doing it and just paying, nobody will care about it,” he said. “You have to take pride in what you build, and you have to use community involvement.” IRA MCKINLEY
McKinley is optimistic about this future project and others, primarily a “people’s mar-
Reflecting on Ithaca, he explained it’s a politically complex but artistically active environment, with room for more community engagement. A public market with good food and artistic opportunities could
Public Library, 101 East Green Street |
Ballet & Books is a national, non-profit organization that provides children ages 3 years — 4th grade with an opportunity to improve their literacy skills through a combination of dance
in a variety of methods, and styles. | Free
Music Unbound: From Stage to Screen with Michael Abels at Cornell Cinema | 3/6 Friday | 144 East Ave.
3/6 Friday
T he Boys in the Band | 7:30 p.m. | Cider Mill Stage, 2 Nanticoke Ave. Busking for Justice: Joe Crookston | 5:30 p.m. | Fibers, 215 N. Cayuga St.
Li’l Anne Small Band | 6 p.m. | Hopshire Farm and Brewery, 1771 Dryden Road State Route 13 | Free
3/7 Saturday
The Kitchen Sink Band | 6 p.m. | crooked mouth brewing, Vestal Avenue
3/8 Sunday
Jazz Upstairs | 4 p.m., 3/8 Sunday | TreeHouse Studio & Lounge, 119 S Cayuga St. | Join Firefly Trio with Diana Leigh for afternoon jazz for your listening and dancing pleasure. Bar & snacks available, wood dance floor.
3/9 Monday
Comedy Open Mic! | 6:30 p.m., 3/9 Monday | Liquid State Brewing Company, 620 W Green St. | About the event This mic is all about community. You’ll see familiar faces, first-timers, and comics testing jokes that may one day become iconic.
3/10 Tuesday
Community Line Dance | 7 p.m., 3/10 Tuesday | Foundation of Light,
391 Turkey Hill Rd. | Community Line Dance lessons
Afro-Cuban Traditional & Folkloric Dance Class | 7:30 p.m., 3/10 Tuesday | Treehouse Studio, 119 S Cayuga St. | Taught by Adolfo Castillo and Lisbet Lopez, accomplished professional dancers from Guantanamo, Cuba. Class is for all levels. Live percussion accompaniment. | $20.00
3/5 Thursday
Midday Music: Student Perspectives on Kiskeya (CU Music) | 12:30 p.m. | Lincoln Hall, 256 Feeney Way | Free
3/6 Friday
CCHK Salon: Listening to Kiskeya (CU Music) | 5 p.m. | Barnes Hall, 129 Ho Plaza | Free
Junior Recital: Lusi Halaifonua, mezzo soprano at Hockett Family Recital Hall | 8:15 p.m.
Ithaca College: Symphony Orchestra | 8:15 p.m. | Ford Hall, Ithaca College
3/7 Saturday
S ounding Kiskeya Research Symposium (CU Music) | 9 a.m. | Lincoln Hall, 256 Feeney Way | Free Faculty Recital: Richard Faria, clarinet at Hockett Family Recital Hall | 1 p.m.
Coletti Trumpet Studio Recital at Hockett Family Recital Hall | 3 p.m
Contemporary Chamber Voices from Haiti & the Dominican
Re public (CU Music) | 4 p.m. | Barnes Hall, 129 Ho Plaza | Free.
Warren Haynes Band — Winter of Warren 2026 | 7 p.m. | State Theatre of Ithaca, 107 West State St.
Cayuga Chamber Orchestra Presents Boulangerie 1 | 7:30 p.m.
| Ford Hall, Ithaca College, 953 Danby Road | $15.00 - $45.00
Close to You: Music of the Carpenters | 7:30 p.m. | Hangar Theatre, 801 Taughannock Blvd. | $35.00
Guest Recital: Dan Greenleaf, guitar at Hockett Family Recital Hall | 8:15 p.m.
3/8 Sunday
Junior Recital: Kaitlin Barron, clarinet at Hockett Family Recital Hall | 2 p.m.
Cornell Symphony Orchestra
Young Person’s Concert (CU Music) | 3 p.m. | Bailey Hall, 230 Garden Ave. | Free
Faculty Recital: Vadim Serebryany, piano at Hockett Family Recital Hall | 6 p.m.
3/9 Monday
Junior Recital: Henry Denton, baritone at Hockett Family Recital Hall | 7 p.m.
3/10 Tuesday
Folk at the Farmhouse — Annie Burns Mark Zabel, Doug Robinson, Harry Aceto | 7 p.m. | The Farmhouse at Grist Iron Brewing Company, 4880 New York 414 | $28.52
BUSKING FOR JUSTICE: JOE CROOKSTON
FRIDAY, MARCH 6 FROM 5:30 TO 7 P.M.
3/11 Wednesday
Student Chamber Recital: Brass Ensembles at Ford Hall | 7 p.m.
An Evening with The Tannahill Weavers | 7:30 p.m. | First Unitarian Society of Ithaca, 306 N Aurora Street
Wulfman Studio Recital at Hockett Family Recital Hall | 8:15 p.m.
Milkweed | 7 p.m., 3/4 Wednesday | The Kitchen Theatre, 417 W State St. | This poetic, multilayered world premiere by Ithaca playwright Wendy Dann explores the complicated, tender acts of teaching and learning, and will exquisitely unravel your understanding of time and space.
Wind in the Willows | 10 a.m., 3/6 Friday | Clemens Center, 207 Clemens Center Parkway | A Clemens Center Mary Tripp Marks School-Time Series production presented by Holden & Arts Associates and Theatre Heroes.
Keb’ Mo’ at the State Theatre of Ithaca | 8 p.m., 3/6 Friday | State Theatre of Ithaca, 107 West State St. | DSP Shows & The State Theatre of Ithaca Present.
Tri-Cities Opera’s THE THREE BEARS: A Sensory-Friendly Performance | 2 p.m., 3/7 Saturday | Clemens Center, 207 Clemens Center Parkway | The Clemens Center and John G. Ullman & Associates Foundation, Inc.
Ballet & Books: Spring 2026 | 2:30 p.m., 3/7 Saturday | Tompkins County
Ithaca Dances of Universal PeaceMarch Circle | 7:15 p.m., 3/7 Saturday | Foundation of Light, 391 Turkey Hill Road | The Dances of Universal Peace are an interfaith spiritual practice using live music, singing and movement. | Free
Lansing High School Musical Theater Club — Shrek The Musical | 6:30 p.m., 3/11 Wednesday | Lansing Middle School Auditorium, 6 Ludlowville Rd. | Lansing High School Musical — “Shrek The Musical” | $5.00
INTUIT : work by Tim Merrick, Bryna Silbert and Ralph Turturro | 11 a.m., 3/4 Wednesday | Corners Gallery, 903 Hanshaw Rd. Suite 101A Suite 101A | INTUIT features work by Tim Merrick, Bryna Silbert and Ralph Turturro | Free
Ithaca Gallery Night | 5 p.m., 3/6 Friday | Ithaca Gallery Night, 171 East State Street | Ithaca Gallery Night is a monthly event happening on the first Friday of every month where galleries and art venues present new art exhibitions. Ithaca Gallery Night is free and open to the public and participating venues can be found on the website at www.ithacagallerynight.com. | Free
The Gallery at South Hill Photography Group Exhibit artists talk | 1 p.m., 3/7 Saturday | The Gallery at South Hill, 950 Danby Rd. South Hill Business Campus | Artists talk for the Photography Group Exhibit at The Gallery at South Hill. The Photography Group Exhibit brings together eight Ithaca based photographers working
Classic Movie — Taxi Driver (1976) | 3:30 p.m., 3/8 Sunday | State Theatre of Ithaca, 107 West State St. Women’s Adventure Film Festival | 6 p.m., 3/10 Tuesday | Cornell Cinema and Cinemapolis , 120 East Green Street | Ithaca’s 2nd Annual Women’s Adventure Film Tour will showcase stories of courage, adventure, and self-discovery. | $0.00 - $11.00
Breathless | One Showing, 6 p.m., March 4 | A small-time thief steals a car and impulsively murders a motorcycle policeman. Wanted by the authorities, he attempts to persuade a girl to run away to Italy with him. Presented as a two-night doublefeature with NOUVELLE VAGUE. With introduction by IC Media Arts, Sciences and Studies professor Andrew Vielkind | NR 90 mins Nouvelle Vague | One Showing 6 p.m. March 5 | A playful, poignant love letter to cinema, Nouvelle Vague reimagines the making of Jean-Luc Godard’s Breathless in an exuberant exploration of the youthful rebellion and creative chaos that shaped the French New Wave. Presented as a two-night double-feature with BREATHLESS. with introduction by IC Media Arts, Sciences and Studies professor Andrew Vielkind | R 106 mins
The Bride! | A lonely Frankenstein travels to 1930s Chicago to ask groundbreaking scientist Dr. Euphronious to create a companion for him. The two revive a murdered young woman and The Bride is born. What
and
Cafe DeWitt, 215 N Cayuga St. | Busking for Justice is an uplifting way to gather in a shared commitment to compassion, solidarity, and due process. The March concert features acclaimed local folk artist Joe Crookston, an internationally touring songwriter and multi-instrumentalist known for his powerful storytelling, humor, and musical range. His performances are warm, engaging, and deeply human — a perfect fit for the spirit of this first Friday benefit series! Donations support immigrants facing impacts of detention and deportation. (Photo: Provided) DOWNTOWN ITHACA CHILI COOK-OFF SATURDAY MARCH 7 FROM NOON TO 4 P.M.
ensues is beyond what either of them imagined: Murder! Possession! A wild and radical cultural movement! And outlaw lovers in a wild and combustible romance! | R 126 mins
Dog Day Afternoon | Two showings
March 10 | Based on the true story of would-be Brooklyn bank robbers John Wojtowicz and Salvatore Naturile. Sonny and Sal attempt a bank heist which quickly turns sour and escalates into a hostage situation and stand-off with the police. As Sonny’s motives for the robbery are slowly revealed and things become more complicated, the heist turns into a media circus. | R 124 mins
Ithaca Men’s Lacrosse vs Nazareth University | 4:00 p.m., 3/4 Wednesday | Higgins Stadium, Ithaca College
Ithaca Men’s Tennis vs Bloomsburg University | 12:00 p.m., 3/6 Friday | Wheeler Tennis Courts or Glazer Arena, Ithaca College
Ithaca Women’s Tennis vs Bloomsburg University | 4:00 p.m., 3/6 Friday | Wheeler Tennis Courts or Glazer Arena, Ithaca College
Cornell Women’s Polo vs University of Kentucky | 5:00 p.m., 3/6 Friday | Oxley Equestrian Center, Cornell University
Men’s Polo vs University of Kentucky | 7:00 p.m., 3/6 Friday | Oxley Equestrian Center, Cornell University
Cornell Women’s Basketball vs Dartmouth College | 1:00 p.m., 3/7
Saturday | Newman Arena, Cornell University
Ithaca Women’s Lacrosse vs University of Scranton | 1:00 p.m., 3/7 Saturday | Higgins Stadium, Ithaca College
Ithaca Women’s Tennis vs Binghamton University | 4:00 p.m., 3/7
Saturday | Wheeler Tennis Courts or Glazer Arena, Ithaca College
Cornell Equestrian Team at Regional Championships | all day 3/8 Sunday | Oxley Equestrian Center, Cornell University
Women’s Lacrosse vs St. Bonaventure University | 3:00 p.m., 3/11
Wednesday | Schoellkopf Field, Cornell University
GO ITHACA Open Hours | 2 p.m., 3/5
Thursday | Tompkins County Public Library, 101 East Green Street | Our program makes sustainable commuting accessible and affordable for everyone.
Ribbon Cutting for opening of Modern Ohana | 9:30 a.m., 3/5
Thursday, 205 Elmira Road | Join us in celebrating the opening of Modern Ohana, (formerly known as MIX Kitchen)
D owntown Ithaca Chili Cook-Off | 12 p.m., 3/7 Saturday | Downtown Ithaca Commons, 171 E MLK Jr. Street | The Downtown Ithaca Chili Cook-Off returns to the Commons for a one-day tasting experience filled with bold chili, lively crowds, and friendly competition.
Sweet Bough Collective Wedding Showcase | 3 p.m., 3/8 Sunday | New Park Event Venue and Suites, 1500 Taughannock Blvd. | Meet wedding professionals to create your dream wedding! Food, cash bar, fun, and prizes. Tickets $2 online or $5 at the door. | $2.00 - $5.00
From Ecuador to Ithaca: Hands-on Activities | 3 p.m., 3/11 Wednesday | Sciencecenter, 601 1st Street | Join us for hands-on activities with student volunteers from Ecuador’s Universidad San Francisco de Quito (USFQ)!
Marion Nestle: What To Eat Now | 6 p.m., 3/5 Thursday | Autumn Leaves Books, 115 East State Street | Autumn Leaves is excited to welcome Marion Nestle, nutrition expert and author of the new book What To Eat Now.
Ithaca Trans Center Book Club | 2 p.m., 3/8 Sunday | Buffalo Street Books, 215 N Cayuga St. | Join us to discuss ‘So Many Stars’ by Caro De Robertis! | Free
Tween Book Club | 4 p.m., 3/10 Tuesday | Tompkins County Public Library, 101 East Green Street | Join us for monthly meetings of the TCPL Tween Book Club — the second Tuesday of every month. We will read and discuss great books together, play games, eat snacks, and laugh a lot.
Magical Realism: A Fiction Writing Workshop | 5:30 p.m., 3/10 Tuesday | Tompkins County Public Library, 101 East Green Street | Join Augusto Luiz Facchini and enhance your craft in a new writing workshop focused on Magical Realism!
Science Together: Sink or Float | 10:15 a.m., 3/4 Wednesday | Sciencecenter, 601 1st Street | Test and sort items with a water play, sink or float experiment!
Read to Dogs | 3 p.m., 3/4 Wednesday | Newfield Public Library, 198 Main St. | Children are invited to the Newfield Library to practice their reading skills by reading to one of Cornell Companion’s volunteer therapy dogs! | Free
Family Playgroup - Winter’26
Round #2 | 9:30 a.m., 3/5 Thursday | CCE-Tompkins Education Center, 615 Willow Avenue | Free 6 weeks series, March 5 – April 16 (no class on April 2) Tyke Tales Story Time | 10:30 a.m., 3/5 Thursday | Lodi Whittier Library,
8 484 S Main St. | Join us for our storytime for children five and under and their caregivers! | Free Story + Craft | 4 p.m., 3/5 Thursday | Tompkins County Public Library, 101 E Green St. | Story + Craft is our weekly reading + creating event for children! Join us for a read-aloud, followed by art-making or a guided craft.
Baby & Toddler Storytime | 10:30 a.m., 3/6 Friday | Tompkins County Public Library, 101 E Green St. | Caregivers and their children are invited to join Cassie for music, rhymes, movement and books. Storytime will be followed by a playtime from 11-12.
Preschool Projects Take & Make | 3/6 Friday | Cortland Free Library, 32 Church St. | Supplies available on a first come first serve basis on the First Friday of the month for ages 3-5 years old.
Open House: Ithaca Waldorf School | 10 a.m., 3/7 Saturday | Ithaca Waldorf School, 20 Nelson Road | Ithaca Waldorf School hosts an open house including attractions like a puppet show for preschoolers, displays of our middle schoolers’ science & art, and visits to our farm animals. | Free Math Fun with MathHappens! | 10 a.m., 3/7 Saturday | Sciencenter, 601 1st St. | Join us for playful, informal math learning with the MathHappens Foundation! Families and kids can explore hands-on activities that make math fun, creative, and connected to everyday life.
Science Connections: Encouraging Young Engineers and Scientists | 2 p.m., 3/8 Sunday | Sciencecenter, 601 1st Street | Encouraging Young Engineers and Scientists (EYES) is excited to bring engaging science and engineering activities to the Sciencenter in order to encourage young students to consider careers in “Li’l Sprouts” Waldorf class for Babies & Toddlers | 9 a.m., 3/9 Monday | Ithaca Waldorf School, 20 Nelson
SATURDAY MARCH 7 AT 7:30 P.M.
Ford Hall, Ithaca College | The Cayuga Chamber Orchestra concludes its 2025–26 Orchestral Series. Led by Music Director Guillaume Pirard and featuring CCO’s Principal Horn, Steven Harmon. A Pre-Concert Chat with Harmon and Pirard begins at 6:30 p.m. in Hockett Recital Hall. This program is the first in a series of tributes to the far-reaching influence of Nadia Boulanger, one of the 20th century’s most legendary music pedagogues. For tickets and more information for all concerts: Visit CCOithaca.org (Photo: Provided)
Road | A weekly Waldorf gathering for babies and toddlers with their parent/ caregiver, led by master teacher Karen Lonsky. | $30.00 - $175.00
Family Open Play | 9:30 a.m., 3/9
Monday | CCE-Tompkins Education Center, 615 Willow Ave | Free space for families to come with their children — ages 0 to 4 years old — to play and socialize with other families.
Coalition for Families | 12 p.m., 3/9
Monday | CCE-Tompkins Education Center, 615 Willow Avenue | Families, community members, & professionals are invited to join our monthly Coalition for Families hybrid presentation, this time on the topic of Adult Role Models: Talking to Your Children about Sit! Stay! Read! | 3 p.m., 3/9 Monday | Tompkins County Public Library, 101 E Green St. | Children are invited to practice their reading skills by sharing a story with a truly non-judgmental listener — a dog! Reading sessions will be held Mondays from 3-4 p.m.
Science Together: Kinetic Sand | 10:15 a.m., 3/11 Wednesday | Sciencecenter, 601 1st Street | Explore the different properties of kinetic sand!
Thriving With Your Spirited Child
— Spring’26 | 6 p.m., 3/11 Wednesday | Virtual | Spirited Children are just a little “more” of everything. | Free
LGBTQ+ Youth Group | 4:30 p.m., 3/4 Wednesday | Tompkins County Public Library, 101 E Green St. | Join us at LGBTQ+ Youth Group to do crafts, play games, and socialize. Whether you’re lesbian, gay, bi, trans, questioning, or just trying to figure things out — we’re here for you!
Pet Clinic | 6 p.m., 3/4 Wednesday | Southside Community Center Gym, 305 S Plain St. | Pet Clinic
Tabletop Role-Playing Game
Brainstorming Group | 6 p.m., 3/4 Wednesday | Tompkins County Public
Library, 101 E Green St. | A gathering of the gaming community to support each other’s creativity.
Ribbon Cutting for opening of Modern Ohana | 9:30 a.m., 3/5 Thursday, 205 Elmira Road | BomberTHON 2026 at Ithaca College Emerson Suites | 5 p.m., 3/5 Thursday | Ithaca College’s annual dance marathon and a high-energy celebration of our yearlong fundraising efforts in support of Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals. Gayogoho:no’ Village Community Q & A Meeting | 6 p.m., 3/6 Friday | Quaker Meeting House, 120 Third St | Hosted by the Gayogoho:no’ Traditional Clan Families. A Zoom link will be provided for those who cannot attend in person.
Ithaca Pride Alliance: All Y’all Clothing Swap | 11 a.m., 3/7 Saturday | Ithaca Community School of Music and Arts, 3rd Floor, Martha Hamblin Hall, 330 E State St. | Free
Newfield Old Home Days Texas Roadhouse Fundraiser | 11 a.m., 3/8 Sunday | Texas Roadhouse, 719-25 S. Meadow Street | 10% of your total purchase will be donatedto Old Home Days at no additional cost to you! | Free
Community Seed Swap | 12:30 p.m., 3/8 Sunday | CCE-Tompkins Education Center, 615 Willow Avenue | Sustainability & Climate Justice Commission Meeting | 5 p.m., 3/9 Monday | Common Council Chambers, 3rd Floor City Hall 108 E Green St. Toxic Plastics, Plastic Turf, and Environmental Justice | 2 p.m., 3/10 Tuesday | Lifelong , 119 W Court St.
Stirring the Light: Ayurvedic Wellness for Late Winter | 5:30 p.m., 3/10 Tuesday | GreenStar Food Co+op, 770 Cascadilla Street | Join us for a cozy, nourishing Ayurvedic Wellness class designed to gently wake up digestion, boost energy, and clear out winter’s heaviness
SING OUT! STORIES AND SONGS FOR SOCIAL JUSTICE
SUNDAY, MARCH 8 FROM 2 TO 4 P.M.
First Baptist Church, 309 N Tioga St. | Sing out for freedom as we gather to raise our voices in stories and songs for social justice! We join together for an afternoon dedicated to peace, justice and community. Featuring storyteller Regi Carpenter, singer Penelope Voss and the Ithaca Resistance Singers, our community will celebrate our strength and commitment to civil rights. Donations accepted. Family friendly.
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he re-enlisted in the military in 2007, serving an additional 16 years. He’s also a life member of American Legion Post 1194 and VFW Post 478, and volunteers with the Broome County Veterans Memorial Association and the Southern Tier Veterans Support Group. Prior to his retirement in 2015, Bolles
and health from other species, nor from
puck dropped, and Cornell skated off with a tight 2-1 win, which will send the Big Red to the best-of-three ECAC Hockey Quarterfinals, which will be played at Lynah Rink on March 13, 14 and if necessary, 15. Tickets will go on sale this Monday. Things also got a lot clearer — and brighter — for the Big Red men’s basketball team over the weekend. After the team’s
worked in hospitality and served nearly 22 years as a firefighter and EMT-paramedic with the Binghamton Fire Department. During his tenure, he was elected to seven consecutive terms by the Binghamton Firefighters Local 729 IAFF labor union, where he negotiated two multi-year labor contracts. He is also the founder of Triple 1st Response, a Binghamton-based apparel company he established to reflect the principles of duty, courage, and immediate action.
the poor to make the rich richer. Like any good ecosystem, it takes the contributions of every diverse species, individual, (party?) to create that essential intermingling which strengthens the whole and
home loss against Harvard on Feb. 21, I heard loyal fans grumbling that even if — and that was a real “if” — the Big Red made the Ivy Madness tournament, they would go in as a fourth seed, and would have to play against Yale. That prospect seemed daunting to say the least, given the Bulldogs had embarrassed the Big Red in New Haven, handing the visitors a 102-68 thumping. Well, that sense of foreboding was eased a bit on Friday, when the mighty Bulldogs came into Newman Arena, and left with their tails
“I’ve dedicated my life to helping others and showing up to fight the tough battles for our community and our country. I’m a retired US Army Veteran, retired Firefighter and small business owner of 100% American-made graphic apparel. I’m running for State Senate because our state government is in crisis and I feel called back to public service to help fix it,” said Bolles.
According to Bolles’ campaign announcement, “his unwavering commit-
supports ecological stability. It is the ageold directive: To heal the Earth, we must first heal ourselves.
Elizabeth Keokosky is a former systems
between their legs, as Cornell beat them 7269 on a buzzer-beating 3-pointer from senior Jake Fiegen. As a result, it is clear to everyone — especially the Big Red, which will host Ivy Madness – that the fact that Yale is the #1 seed means little when the teams step onto the court on March 14. The winner of the Cornell/Yale semifinal will play for the league title — and a trip to March Madness — on Sunday, March 15. Now, to spring forward to the Big Red lacrosse game on Saturday. What started
ment to domestic manufacturing and American jobs reflects the values he will bring to the New York State Senate: fighting for lower taxes, less red tape, and real economic relief so families and small businesses across Senate District 52 can thrive.”
Bolles resides on Binghamton’s Eastside with his wife, Jill, with whom he has two adult children and two grandchildren. The 2026 general election is scheduled for Nov. 3.
analyst who worked at Cornell University for over 35 years. She holds a master’s degree in City and Regional Planning with a concentration in Regional Economics from Cornell.
out as a game that looked like a really low-scoring affair, a flurry of goals found the net in the second half. Unfortunately, five of the six final goals were scored by the visiting Richmond Spiders, and the Big Red was handed its first loss of the season. Fans may recall that a one-goal loss at home to Penn State last season energized Cornell to make adjustments and run the table the rest of the way, and one can hope that such a disappointing loss will serve some productive purpose.
Become volunteer readers for Sounds of Democracy , a new, community-driven media literacy and civic engagement initiative that turns local journalism into shared listening.
As our nation approaches the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence on July 4, 2026—and continues through September 2037, the 250th anniversary of the U.S. Constitution— Sounds of Democracy will create a living audio archive of essays, letters to the editor, and news stories originally published in our local papers.
In an era of social and political dis-ease, Sounds of Democracy offers a simple but powerful act: listening to one another . Please contact Roy Allen , Director of Strategic Partnerships, at Roy@ithacatimes.com for more information. We look forward to hearing from you.
— The Ithaca Times, Trumansburg Free Press, Ovid Gazette, Interlaken Review, News Chronicle, Tompkins Independent and Prime Times. Finger Lakes Community Newspapers
Sponsored by the Law Firm of Hancock Estabrook, LLP
When you hear "estate planning," you might picture wealthy families in boardrooms dividing up fortunes. But here's the reality: estate planning isn't just for the ultra-rich. If you own a home, have a bank account, or simply want to ensure your wishes are honored if something happens to you, understanding estate planning basics is important. Think of estate planning as creating a roadmap for your loved ones. It's about making thoughtful decisions today that can spare your family stress, confusion, and difficult choices during an already emotional time.
Estate planning involves organizing how your assets and affairs will be handled if you pass away or become unable to make decisions for yourself. Your "estate" encompasses everything you own—your home, cars, bank accounts, investments, personal belongings, and even digital assets like online accounts and photos stored in the cloud.
Beyond distributing possessions, estate planning also addresses important questions: Who would make medical decisions for you if you couldn't? Who would manage your finances? If you have children, who would care for them? These are weighty questions, but having answers in place provides tremendous peace of mind.
You might think, "I don't have that much—do I really need an estate plan?"
Consider this: without planning, state laws decide what happens to your belongings and who makes decisions for you. Your family might face lengthy court processes, unexpected expenses, and difficult deci-
sions during an already challenging time. Estate planning prevents these scenarios by making your intentions clear.
Several documents form the foundation of most estate plans:
• A Will is perhaps the most well-known, outlining who receives your assets and naming guardians for minor children. Without a Will, state intestacy laws determine asset distribution, which might not match your preferences.
• Revocable Trusts (also known as Living trusts) represent another common tool, allowing assets to pass to beneficiaries without going through the probate process and Surrogate’s Court—potentially saving time and money. Trusts can also provide privacy since they don't become public record like Wills do.
• Healthcare directives let you specify your medical treatment preferences in advance, while a healthcare power of attorney designates someone to make medical decisions if you're unable to communicate. Similarly, a financial power of attorney appoints someone to handle your finances if you become incapacitated or wish to permit someone else to assist with your financial and legal matters.
• Don't overlook beneficiary designations on retirement accounts and life insurance policies. These designations typically override your will, so keeping them current is crucial.
Beginning your estate planning journey starts with awareness. Take inventory of what you own and owe. Consider who you trust to make important decisions on your behalf. Think about what matters most to you.
Many people find that understanding the basics helps them have more produc-
tive conversations with professionals. Estate planning involves complex legal and financial considerations, so consulting with qualified attorneys and financial advisors is important for developing a plan suited to your specific situation.
Estate planning isn't something you do once and forget. Your plan should evolve as your life changes. Marriage, divorce, births, deaths, moves to different states, significant changes in assets—all these events warrant reviewing your estate plan.
Even without major life events, experts generally suggest reviewing your plan every few years. Laws change, family dynamics shift, and your priorities may evolve. What made sense five years ago might not reflect your current situation.
Estate planning requires confronting uncomfortable topics, but many people find that completing their estate plan brings unexpected relief. There's something profoundly comforting about knowing you've done what you can to protect the people you care about.
Your legacy isn't just about money and possessions—it's about the values you hold and the people you love. By taking time to organize your affairs, you're demonstrating care for your family's future wellbeing.
The hardest part of estate planning is often simply getting started. You don't
need to have everything figured out perfectly before seeking guidance. Consulting with professionals early can help you understand what questions to ask and what options exist.
Estate planning isn't a morbid exercise— it's a responsible one. Just as you have insurance for your car and home, estate planning provides protection for your most important assets and relationships. Whether you're just beginning to think about it or ready to update an existing plan, the most important step is taking action.
Editor's Note: This article is for informational purposes only and should not be construed as, and does not constitute, legal advice on any specific matter, nor does this message create an attorney-client relationship. These materials may be considered Attorney Advertising in some states. Estate planning involves complex legal and tax considerations that vary by state and individual circumstances. Always consult with qualified estate planning attorneys, financial advisors, and tax professionals to develop a plan appropriate for your specific situation. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
This essay is sponsored by Hancock Estabrook, a local law firm with offices in Ithaca and Syracuse. Their support reflects a shared commitment to strengthening families and increasing awareness of foster care and adoption opportunities throughout New York State.
