Prime Times - Dec. 2025 by Ithaca Times

A resource book for 55+

DECEMBER 2025

If Connection Had a Sound, Would You Hear it?

Protecting Your Ears This July: Understanding Noise-Induced Hearing Loss and Hearing Conservation

As summer hits its stride in July, so does the excitement –parades, outdoor concerts, sports games, backyard parties, and of course, reworks lighting up the night sky. These events are a big part of the season’s fun. However, all that noise can come with a hidden cost: your hearing.

What Is Noise-Induced Hearing Loss?

When families gather, whether for holidays, birthdays, or simple everyday moments we share stories, laughter, and traditions. But during these times, many people notice small changes in a loved one’s hearing. Maybe Grandma turns the TV up louder than usual, or Dad often asks, “What did you say?” These signs may seem small, but they can be the first hints that someone is starting to miss out on important moments.

active, think clearly, and feel like themselves. Families notice the difference right away: communication improves, frustration decreases, and gatherings become more joyful.

the sound. Stay back from speakers, engines, or reworks –500 feet is a good rule of thumb when it comes to rework displays.

Protecting Your Ears This July: Understanding Noise-Induced Hearing Loss and Hearing Conservation

Most of us don’t think twice about how loud our surroundings are during these celebrations. But noise-induced hearing loss is a real and permanent condition that a ects millions of people. It happens when the delicate hair cells inside the inner ear get damaged from exposure to loud sounds. These cells don’t grow back, which means once your hearing is a ected, it’s gone for good.

The Silent Threat: Gradual or Sudden Hearing Loss

Caring for hearing is part of caring for overall well-being. It strengthens independence, reduces mental strain, and helps people stay connected to the world around them.

Don’t forget to talk about this with your family. A lot of people, especially kids and teens, have no idea that hearing loss from noise is permanent. Making ear protection a normal part of outings – like bringing sunscreen or water – can go a long way in building healthy habits.

Stay on Top of Your Hearing Health

Hearing well is about more than sound. It helps us stay confident, involved, and connected to the people around us. When hearing becomes harder, conversations take more effort. Loved ones may start to pull back without meaning to, simply because following every word becomes tiring or stressful.

What Is Noise-Induced Hearing Loss?

What makes this kind of hearing loss tricky is that it doesn’t always show up right away. Sometimes it creeps in gradually after months or years of being around loud environments –think concerts, power tools, or even lawnmowers. But it can also happen in an instant if you’re exposed to an especially loud noise, like reworks going o nearby.

How Loud is Too Loud?

The Silent Threat: Gradual or Sudden Hearing Loss

Many people wait years before getting help. In fact, 75% of people with hearing loss say they wish they would have acted sooner. Once they finally address their hearing, they often realize how much they had been missing—little jokes, soft-spoken comments, shared memories, and the details that make family moments meaningful.

And reworks? They’re no joke. If you’re close, they can hit between 150 and 175 decibels – way above what’s considered safe. To put that into perspective, sounds over 85 decibels can start to cause damage if you're exposed for a while. Once you're over 120, even a short burst of sound can hurt your ears.

But it’s not just reworks that put your hearing at risk. Summer is full of noisy activities such as music festivals, crowded sports stadiums, buzzing lawn tools, and roaring jet skis or speedboats on the lake. All of these can take a toll, especially if you’re not taking precautions.

How Loud is Too Loud?

Tips to Protect Your Hearing

The effects of untreated hearing loss go deeper than many realize. Research shows that older adults with untreated hearing loss have a 30–40% higher risk of cognitive decline. They also experience more loneliness, frustration, and anxiety. Every time someone struggles to hear, they lose a small piece of connection. It might be a story told across the dinner table, a quiet “thank you,” or a grandchild’s excitement. Over time, these missed moments add up.

The good news is this kind of hearing loss is totally preventable. With a few simple habits, you can enjoy all the summer fun without putting your hearing on the line. Start by carrying earplugs or earmu s to loud events, there are even stylish and comfortable options for these days, including custom- tted plugs for concert lovers. Kids need protection too, and their ears are even more sensitive than ours.

Healthy aging isn’t just about extending life—it’s about improving it. Hearing plays a major role in helping people stay active, engaged, and emotionally strong. When hearing is supported, conversations feel easier. Relationships feel closer. Family time feels warm and relaxed. Loved ones can enjoy the present moment without the stress of trying to keep up.

Another smart move is to keep your distance from the source of the noise. The farther away you are, the less intense

Tips to Protect Your Hearing

Another smart move is to keep your distance from the source of the noise. The farther away you are, the less intense

Getting help for hearing loss can change daily life in meaningful ways. Today’s hearing solutions do more than increase volume—they bring clarity, comfort, and confidence. People who hear well are more likely to stay socially

the sound. Stay back from speakers, engines, or reworks –500 feet is a good rule of thumb when it comes to rework displays.

It’s also a good idea to schedule regular hearing checkups, just like you would for your eyes or teeth. This is especially important if you're around loud environments regularly, either for work or fun.

At Timeless Hearing, we believe every person deserves to feel fully included in every conversation. Our team combines professional knowledge with genuine compassion. We guide families through the process, helping them understand their options in a way that feels comfortable and encouraging, not overwhelming or pressured.

Hearing loss might be invisible, but the impact on your life can be huge. It a ects how you connect with others, how you enjoy music or conversations, and even your mental well-being. So, this summer, as you soak up the season and all the exciting events it brings, take a few extra steps to protect your ears.

Stay on Top of Your Hearing Health

Celebrating Smart This Summer

This summer, as you soak up the season and all the exciting events it brings, take a few extra steps to protect your ears.

We know that better hearing leads to better moments. When someone can hear clearly, they can laugh freely, join conversations without worry, and enjoy the simple, beautiful moments that make family life meaningful. Addressing hearing loss early protects these moments and keeps relationships strong.

Protect your hearing today, so you can keep enjoying the sounds of tomorrow. Call one of our o ces today to schedule your appointment!

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

Choosing to care for your hearing is choosing to stay connected, stay confident, and stay involved. It ensures that every “I love you,” every shared laugh, and every treasured story is heard and remembered.

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

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

Celebrating Smart This Summer

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

This summer, as you soak up the season and all the exciting events it brings, take a few extra steps to protect your ears.

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

If you or someone you love has been showing signs of hearing loss, now is the time to take the next step. Schedule a hearing screening with Timeless Hearing today and let us help you reconnect with the moments that matter most.

Protect your hearing today, so you can keep enjoying the sounds of tomorrow. Call one of our o ces today to schedule your appointment!

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

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

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

Ashley Hardy grew up in Cortland in a family with hearing loss and knows the impact communication can have on quality of life. She received her Bachelor’s in Human Development from Binghamton University in 2004 and has over 20 years of experience as a hearing aid dispenser.

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

Timeless Hearing (Elmira, NY): (607) 327-4714

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

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

Tri-City Hearing (Vestal, NY): (607) 327-4713 Ashley Hardy grew up in Cortland in a family with hearing loss and knows the impact communication can have on quality of life. She received her Bachelor’s in Human Development from Binghamton University in 2004 and has over 20 years of experience as a hearing aid dispenser.

Cover Photo:

Janet Loebach, far left, the Evalyn Edwards Milman Assistant Professor in Child Development, visits Cayuga Health in the Shops at Ithaca Mall as part of her Designing Age Friendly Environments class. The facility is among the first certified as an “age friendly business” under a program students helped develop with Tompkins County’s Office for the Aging. (Photo: Sreang Hok/Cornell University)

and Cayuga Health Lead

Tompkins Learning Partners

Getting the biggest bang for your buck, while supporting others in our community

By Marjorie olds

Tompkins Learning Partners, led by Executive Director Donna Ramos, with Board Chair Gail Salk, devotes its days to helping local adults to learn to speak, understand, read, and write in English, earn a High School Equivalency diploma, or prepare for a US Citizenship exam. People come to TLP for 1:1 tutoring to gain language and literacy skills as they work toward their goals. For some, this means earning a High School Equivalency diploma to expand employment opportunities or passing a Civil Service Exam to pursue meaningful work in our community. Others have school-aged children and want to improve their English language skills to read with them and better communicate with teachers, doctors, and more. No matter what, TLP’s adult learners come ready to work hard in partnership with their tutors to achieve the goals

Tompkins Learning Partners provides one-on-one tutoring to help local adults build essential language and literacy skills.

(Photo: Provided)

they set for their lives.

As one TLP student shared, “I like coming to Tompkins Learning Partners to study. I look forward to it. I feel welcome here! There are not too many places like this where I can learn.”

As they approach their 50th year, TLP is working to ensure that many more adult students can take advantage of their programs and benefit from this type of 1:1 tutoring relationship.

Many people are aware that reductions

in funding by the federal government is affecting safety net and educational services in Tompkins County. At the same time, the demand for services is on the rise.

Donna and Gail have been creatively considering how to shore up TLP’s future, so that participants and their tutors will be able to work together through uncertain financial times.

How can community members respond to support mission-driven organizations like TLP?

One of the ways to make an impact is to plan for a financial contribution. The fastest-growing population in Ithaca and Tompkins County is people over 65 years of age. For those who have been fortunate enough to set aside savings, they may discover in their 70’s that the IRS requires them to take distributions from IRAs that they may have contributed to from their paychecks years ago.

So, Donna and Gail have turned to Jon Cleek, noted and highly regarded CPA and Managing Partner at Stearns & Cleek CPAs for guidance. Jon brings extensive experience in tax preparation and financial planning.

Jon Cleek notes, “When individuals turn 73 years of age (although that will soon change to 74), they must withdraw Required Minimum Distributions (RMDs) each year from their IRAs and 403(b) and 401(K) retirement accounts, like TIAA accounts. This

is mandatory, whether one utilizes the standard deduction and does not itemize, or itemizes. Either way you do your taxes, if you don’t withdraw the amount required on time, the IRS assesses a penalty.”

Jon Cleek advises his clients that if one instead donates their RMD, or a portion of it, as a Qualified Charitable Deduction (QCD) to a not-for-profit organization (501c3), the taxpayer can savor the joy of sharing their distribution with essential community organizations they have always admired and wished they could support financially. Now, by gifting that organization, they avoid paying taxes on the RMDs. Timing is important and a certified tax advisor is key.

Gail and Donna note that this is a “WinWin”! These individual donations help close the funding gaps that nonprofits are increasingly experiencing. QCDs are available to individuals starting at age 70 ½ and can exceed the RMD amount.

Jon Cleek also counsels that people who own stock can donate portions or all of their stocks to valued organizations, thereby avoiding large capital gains taxes.

Imagine that someone who admires TLP’s role in the community inherited stocks years ago. This $1,000 inheritance is now worth $10,000. The owner would normally be taxed on a $9,000 capital gain. However, they might consider donating a por-

tion of the stock, or all of it, to a 501(c)3 organization like TLP. In that case, no taxes would be due for the donor, on the gifted stock. The full fair market value of this donation also counts as a charitable contribution (if itemizing).

These examples and more of planned giving show ways we can create a legacy for the organizations who come alongside community members to meet a critical need or opportunity. Perhaps an organization like TLP has assisted you or a

continued on page 15

LONGVIEW IS A PROUD ITHACA COMMUNITY PARTNER.

Our non-proﬁt mission is to promote well-being of mind, body and spirit for older adults though life-enriching housing options, supportive ser vices and community partnerships. Live and learn with us through our intergenerational living/learning partnership with Ithaca C ollege. Live well with us.

Cornell Initiative Tackles the Hidden Health Impacts of Menopause

EDITOR’S NOTE:

This article first appeared in the Cornell Chronicle.

Two centuries ago, few women lived long enough to reach menopause. Today, it marks a major inflection point in women’s health, yet remains poorly understood. Cornell researchers aim to change that.

Drawing on cutting-edge technology and interdisciplinary expertise, researchers are launching Menopause Health Engineering, a new initiative uniting faculty from Cornell’s Ithaca campus and Weill Cornell Medicine, to uncover how menopause shapes health and disease, and to develop urgently needed treatment strategies. The inaugural team includes nine faculty across four departments, with a core in the Meinig School of Biomedical Engineering.

Nozomi Nishimura, founder of the initiative and associate professor in the Meinig School, said gaining a

By Melia Matthews, Cornell engineering

very little about how women are affected in this stage of their life.”

better scientific understanding of menopause is important because it not only affects half of the population, but because its different phases and outcomes, when taken together, affect women for the majority of their lives.

“All kinds of conditions develop as women undergo this transition to menopause,” said Nishimura, “including cardiovascular disease, cancer, osteoporosis, dementia and metabolic diseases.”

Claudia Fischbach-Te -

schl, the James M. and Marsha McCormick Family Director of the Meinig School and collaborator on the initiative, noted that while many of these conditions are traditionally labeled as aging-related diseases, deeper, sex-specific factors are at play.

“These so-called aging diseases are affecting women very differently than men,” said Fischbach-Teschl, who is also the Stanley Bryer 1946 Professor of Biomedical Engineering, “yet we understand

One major contributor to that knowledge gap is a long-standing bias toward using male subjects in biomedical research and clinical trials. For example, using male animals for obesity research is faster, as male mice gain weight more quickly. Also, male animals are often cheaper than females, which has led to gaps in understanding of female biology, aging and disease, said Nishimura, who studies Alzheimer’s disease and cardiovascular disease.

“It never really occurred to me – and this was a hole in my education – that when we’re talking about diseases of aging, we should really be looking at and considering something like menopause,” Nishimura said.

Osteoporosis, for example, is tied not only to bone health, but muscle and metabolic health. It also plays a significant

Claudia Fischbach-Teschl (left), director of the Meinig School of Biomedical Engineering, and Nozomi Nishimura, associate professor of biomedical engineering and founder of Menopause Health Engineering, a new research initiative at Cornell aiming to unravel the science of menopause. (Photo: Robyn Wishna/Provided)

role in breast cancer risk and progression. Understanding intertwined problems like menopause and multi-organ diseases requires the kind of interdisciplinary approach found at Cornell, according to Nishimura.

“At Cornell we have really strong researchers for diseases of aging,” Nishimura said. “We have a powerful engineering and tool-building culture that sets us at an advantage. In terms of researching women’s health and menopause, we have an opportunity.”

Menopause is more than a biological transition – it’s a technological

challenge. Only about 2% of health sector private investment is directed toward women-specific health needs. But new research initiatives such as Menopause Health Engineering could catalyze significant advances in biomedical technology and clinical care.

“You need technology in order to understand, diagnose and treat changes that are imposed by menopause,” said Fischbach-Teschl, adding that examples include imaging to observe cells in real time, biomedical devices to measure different physiological

signals, and body-on-achip systems that can mimic how cells behave in a human’s body.

“There is also a need for advanced computation, because with a large dataset, you need to figure out how to use the data to inform therapies or other experiments. Finally, there is usually some sort of innovation and technology needed to translate your findings into changes in clinical care or therapy.”

Beyond the lab and clinic, Menopause Health Engineering is equally committed to student engagement. Researchers plan to integrate their

From our family to yours…………

research with student experiences, embedding menopause and women’s health questions into senior design projects and clinical immersion terms at Weill Cornell Medicine.

To sustain the initiative’s momentum, faculty are actively pursuing funding opportunities to support the group’s collaborative research efforts. At the same time, smaller, innovative initiatives — such as joint fellowships that pair trainees from different labs — will help grow the initiative from the ground up.

continued on page 15

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Erik Holmberg: Public Service in Small Communities

By Marjorie olds

When I asked Erik Holmberg what moved him to help others, he first recalled being a Cub Scout, where the whole pack took on community service projects and got to know many local people all the while strengthening the community. Erik recalls “Scouting for Food” to collect food and distribute to local food banks, cleanup projects in local parks, and planting trees. Part of a group of kids, with engaged leaders, public service (a term the kids didn’t yet know) was fun. When I inquired whom he knew as a child who valued doing service to others, after a brief pause he answered: “My father and my father’s father were both veterans. They believed in democracy, which made service to one’s country a responsibility[…] My father served in Vietnam, ‘So we wouldn’t have to.’ He is now the Commander (highest rank-

ing officer) at the Ovid VFW, so he represents the post at parades and flag ceremonies and regularly presides over their meetings.”

“My paternal grandfather was a Navy medic in World War II. My grandparents met at the Sampson Naval Training Station in Romulus, NY. My mother served on the Ovid Village Board. My Aunt Lucinda (Hance) Collier was the Supervisor in Rose, New York. My maternal grandfather, Stanley Hance was

the Justice of the Peace and assessor for Marion, NY during the 60s.”

“Polly, my wife, also came from a family with a tradition of public service, going back many generations. Polly’s maternal grandfather was a NY State Senator from 1966 to 1972.”

“Our interest in supporting our community likely comes from what we saw our family members modeling. Serving our community didn’t seem too farfetched or unattainable.”

“By the time Polly

and I were married and ready to raise a family, we had worked in big cities (Raleigh, Rochester, NYC Metro, DC Metro) and in tiny villages overseas (Peace Corps Madagascar).”

“When we decided we wanted to be near our families, near water, and living with nature nearby—moving briefly to Trumansburg, and then Sheldrake(Ovid), were easy choices. We are glad to have the ‘lake-tip towns’ (Ithaca, Geneva, Watkins, Seneca Falls/Waterloo/Auburn) nearby for culture and relative-to-us employment.”

“In 2016, a former Ovid Town Supervisor recruited me to run for the Town Board. I was 40 when I was elected to the Ovid Town Board, and I was the youngest board member in quite some time. Our current board is now younger, dynamic, and forward thinking.”

“I spent the first few years on the board listening and learn-

Erik Holmberg and his son Oskar at the Cass Park Black Diamond Trailhead. (Photo: Provided)

ing about community needs and the scope of what a Town Board does (e.g. funding to keep our aging municipal vehicles and machinery going, budgets, & taxes).”

“I realized anew how precious our community history is, and the personal investment we, the next generation, must make to protect its history and character. Polly and I appreciate the community where we grew up and feel responsible for stewarding Ovid’s survival and future relevance.”

“But serving on the board, I also understand how essential it is to leverage technology. I re-built the town website and keep it updated, along with our tech hardware. During Covid, technology kept us in touch with the community through the website, while email video conferencing kept the board in touch with each other. Without tech, we’d fall behind. It’s become essential for us to work with county and New York state systems.”

“And appreciating the character of Ovid and the ‘culture’ of Sheldrake, where we have lived for the past 11 years, I have observed the challenges faced by Ovid citizens of all walks of life. Elderly

citizens, for example, are less mobile in their later years, often getting by on tiny incomes, trying to stay in their hometown homes. These folks need to be supported.”

“Ovid is unique in that we’re in the exact middle of Seneca and Cayuga lakes. Historically, Ovid thrived with middle-class employment through Willard Psychiatric Center (closed 1995) and the Seneca Army Depot (closed 2000). Today, I know many neighbors who drive 40+ minutes to work in the ‘laketip’ cities. Ovid’s biggest employer is the South Seneca School District. We need to cultivate more middle-class jobs. Long, country, 4-season commutes are not sustainable for a small town to flourish. We have non-tourist season(s) too! We do have Five Points Correctional Facility in Romulus, yet many DOCCS employees don’t live locally due to the shift scheduling format and remain transient, keeping primary homes elsewhere.”

Much of Main Street Ovid burned to the ground in the past decade. Fires ripped through buildings on March 18, 2014 and continued on page 15

Preventing the Spread of Respiratory Illness this Winter

‘Tis the season for sickness, and Tompkins County Whole Health (TCWH) is sharing reminders on how to limit and prevent the spread of respiratory illness like influenza (flu), COVID-19 and RSV as winter arrives.

In a recent statement, whole health warned that head and chest infections become much more prevalent in winter months, and urged the community to practice preventative measures to keep the community safe and healthy.

Respiratory viruses like those previously mentioned can cause both upper and lower respiratory tract symptoms. Common symptoms include fever, chills, fatigue, cough, runny or stuffy nose, lack of appetite, sore throat, vomiting, new loss of taste or smell, headache, muscle or body aches, diarrhea, weakness, and more.

“Respiratory viruses affect the nose, throat and lungs, and can lead

By Maddy Vogel

Tompkins County Whole Health is advising residents to stay up to date with current vaccinations and practice safety measures to prevent the spread of respiratory illness during the winter months. (Photo: Provided/Tompkins County Whole Health)

to serious lung infections such as pneumonia, or worse,” TCWH’s Medical Director Dr. William Klepack said. “In the more vulnerable members of our population, such as infants, those with pre-existing chronic health conditions, persons who are pregnant, or older adults, hospitalization and even death can occur. Last year was one of our worst seasons for children with influenza.”

Once symptoms develop, treatment

options can include antiviral prescriptions like Tamiflu or Paxlovid, often helping reduce severity and length of illness. Healthcare providers can test you to determine which virus an individual contracts and provide further assistance with recovery. Free COVID-19 self-test kits are available, while supplies last, at TCWH’s offices at 55 Brown Road in northeast Ithaca and 201 E. Green St. in downtown Ithaca. According to Whole

Health, vaccinations are the most effective prevention measure against illness. The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) recently approved a new COVID-19 vaccine standard allowing everyone ages 6 months and older to receive an updated COVID-19 vaccine. COVID-19 vaccines can be taken at the same time as a flu shot and RSV. The flu vaccine is widely available at pharmacies and healthcare provider offices. Whole Health encourages everyone ages 6 months and older to receive a flu vaccine each fall. The RSV vaccine is recommended for infants up to 11 months, those who are pregnant, adults ages 75+, and for adults ages 65+ who have pre-existing health conditions. Call a local pharmacy or talk to a healthcare provider about vaccine availability. Beyond vaccinations, there are other preventative measures individuals

continued on page 17

Cornell and Cayuga Health Lead the Way in Age-Friendly Design

Editor’s Note: This article first appeared in the Cornell Chronicle.

Some health care facilities can feel cold and sterile, a setting that could cause discomfort or even discourage patients from seeking care.

In contrast, visitors to Cayuga Health’s new outpatient clinics at the Ithaca Mall — recognized recently by a program Cornell students helped develop — are met with earthy colors and nature scenes and a blend of natural and soft artificial light. The sound-absorbing carpet has subtle patterns that help guide guests, and chairs accommodate different mobility levels.

“We need to make the space as warm and welcoming as possible to help set that tone for their visit,” said Adam Long, assistant vice president of operations and service lines for Cayuga Health.

That proactive approach helped the

By jaMes dean, Cornell ChroniCle

(Photo: Sreang Hok/Cornell University)

facility become one of the first certified by Tompkins County as an “age friendly business.”

Assisted by Cornell faculty and students, the county’s Office for the Aging recently launched the new certification to help businesses of all kinds identify ways to better welcome patrons across the age spectrum, and to recognize their efforts to do so.

According to the office, the term “age friendly” refers to practices that are “intentional in being inclusive

of participants across their lifespan.” Those could relate to a business’s physical space, like having an accessible entrance or bathroom, but also things like signage, lighting, noise levels, web presence and staff training and recruitment.

As the U.S. population ages — the number of people 65 and older is projected to exceed the number 18 and younger by the mid-2030s – older adults’ needs are a primary consideration. But experts say improving accessibility for them

typically also helps others. A chair in a store, for example, might benefit an older person needing support or a parent with an infant.

“There’s quite a bit of overlap between accessible needs for older adults and families with young kids,” said Janet Loebach, the Evalyn Edwards Milman Assistant Professor in Child Development in the College of Human Ecology’s Department of Human Centered Design. “We hope to raise awareness among business owners that some of their customers may have different needs, and doing what they can to minimize barriers can improve the experience and maybe even bring in more customers.”

The program emerged from several years of research by students in Loebach’s Designing Age Friendly Environments class, and from Tompkins County’s selection in 2019 to develop an Age Friendly

continued on page 12

Cornell and Cayuga Health

continued from page 11

Center for Excellence, through a grant awarded by the Health Foundation of Western and Central New York, in partnership with the New York State Office for the Aging. Loebach serves on the center’s steering committee along with Mildred Warner, M.S. ’85, Ph.D. ’97, professor of global development in the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences and of city and regional planning in the College of Architec-

ture, Art and Planning.

Students in Loebach’s community-engaged classes initiated a pilot program with a group of downtown businesses, collaborating with partners including the Downtown Ithaca Alliance and Tompkins County Chamber of Commerce. With its formal launch in October, the program now provides checklists to help any business self-audit its age-friendliness and identify opportunities for improvement. The audit documents may be submitted to the Office for the Aging for review and periodic renewal.

While many businesses occupying older buildings won’t have the freedom Cayuga Health enjoyed while retrofitting a big-box mall space that once housed a Bon-Ton, Loebach said many of the audit items are minor and inexpensive to implement – like making a chair available, or menus that are easier to read.

“It can be a fairly quick process,” Loebach said of the self-audit, “and chances are you’re already doing a lot of age-friendly things.”

In addition to Cayuga Health at the mall, the first certified cohort

O U R G I F T T O Y O U T H I S

H O L I D A Y S E A S O N :

A L L C H R I S T M A S M U S I C . . .

A L L D A Y L O N G !

of age-friendly businesses includes Ithaca Neighborhood Housing Services; Ithaca Reuse; Reuse Megacenter Triphammer; Sciencenter; SewGreen Ithaca; and State of the Art Gallery. Each will receive a certificate, door and window stickers, and digital icons designed by students, and will be listed on the county’s online map.

Lisa Monroe, director of the Office for the Aging, credited the faculty and students with delivering “boots on the ground” research and program components that the office did not

continued on page 18

He’s Safe at Third Base

Author’s note as a 10-year survivor: I wrote this story a decade ago, and when it was first published, it was shared far and wide. One of the people who shared it the most prolifically was my doctor, who told me that it enabled her to “speak the language” of some of the men with whom she had been trying to connect. She also shared that many men scheduled their screening after reading it, and that was in fact my reason for sharing such a personal story. A decade after this story was originally published, I am so happy to remain in “the game.” — Steve Lawrence, November 2025

Over the years, I have been asked, “How many people read your column? A hundred? A thousand? Ten thousand?” I jokingly replied, “Well … as long as I get paid, I don’t care!”

Well, readers and friends, this week I am not joking. I want

By steVe l awrenCe

everyone to read this story. I do care.

I have, for many years, drawn a parallel between aging and a game of baseball. I have said, “The average American lives 80 years, so when we turn 20, we have hit a single. Forty is a double, 60 is a triple and 80 is a home run. Of course, many live past 80, stay in the game for another at-bat, and I will never forget Mr. Sterling McAdam, a friend and big-time Cornell softball fan who died recently at age 102. I once told him I had no other friends that had hit a home run and a single. Before last week, I

thought I was cruising into third base with a stand-up triple. I turn 60 on Feb. 1, and I had some free time so I scheduled my colonoscopy a few weeks early. In my groggy post-procedure haze, I heard my doctor say that I had a pre-cancerous polyp that she could not remove, and it had to come out in January. I was fine with that.

Five days later, I received a call from the good doctor and she said, “I don’t like to deliver this news over the phone, but the biopsy revealed that the polyp I referenced has a focus of cancer, and

we have scheduled you for blood work tomorrow and a full-body CAT scan the day after.” Suddenly, my stand-up triple had become a full-speed, hard slide into third, and a cloud of dust had been stirred up that I knew would not clear for at least 48 hours. The call came on Tuesday, and not until Thursday would the dust settle to the point where I could see the umpire signaling whether I was out or safe. Rationally, I knew that as a non-smoking, non-obese vegetarian, I was at low risk for full-blown colon cancer. I also knew that a biopsy signaling any cancer would lead to immediate testing in this litigious world, and I knew my doctor cares about me and wanted to get some answers as soon as possible. Not so rationally, I flashed back repeatedly to 1991, when my mom was diagnosed with advanced lung cancer, and after her CAT

(Photo: Provided)

scan we were told she had a few weeks to live. Five weeks later, she was gone. She was only 58, and having lived longer than my mother does feel very strange. I perceive every day as a gift.

Debbie, my then-significant other, was an amazing source of support, and while we have gone our separate ways, I continue to hold her in the highest regard, and I will

Tompkins Learning Partners

family member in the past or someone you’ve hired, or a neighbor. Your generosity enables others to thrive in our vibrant community.

always be very grateful.

For two sleepless nights I tossed and turned and thought about every meal of processed food I have ever eaten, every negative thought I have ever had, and most of all I thought about my beloved daughters and the grandchildren I might someday see.

On Thursday, we sat in the office for the surgical consult, and the

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continued from page 5 “Faculty are already meeting regularly to discuss findings, build collaborations and shape the future of menopause research,” Nishimura said. Their goal is not only to fill critical scientific gaps, but to redefine how women’s health is understood, prioritized, taught and advanced for generations to come.”

Donna: “So, please speak with a financial advisor like Jon Cleek, and take advantage of the many ways you can arrange a gift to Tompkins Learning Partners, or one of the many wonderful agencies that make such a difference in community members’ lives. The saying goes, ‘It takes a village.’ Thank you for all the ways you bring the village to life for others among us in Tompkins County.”

surgeon said, “Your scan is clear, the lesion we saw is easy to access, and we will remove it in January. I really do not want you to lose any sleep over this.” The dust had cleared, and barring any last-minute instant-replay reviews, the umpire had signaled “Safe.” I got up, dusted myself off and looked toward home plate.

You know where I am going with this …

who are invested in our community recovering and rebuilding post-fire. We are also accessing opportunities to expand industry and enterprises in Ovid, so that more local residents can again earn a living wage in their hometown, can purchase basic essential products without driving long distances, can afford to stay in their family homes, and keep those homes and properties in good condition.”

had I waited a year to get tested … I don’t even want to think about that. Please, friends, get your screenings on time. Please, eat well, take care of yourselves, and dump the chemical-laden sodas and other crap down the drain. We all have plenty of time to be dead, so let’s stay in the game as long as we can. You are all a gift to me. I mean that. Thanks for reading.

Melia Matthews is a freelance writer for Cornell Engineering.

Erik Holmberg

continued from page 9

January 21, 2025. I am engaged with neighbors, colleagues, and friends

“Our family lives in Seneca County, but we work in Tompkins County, love and attend recreation and cultural events in County, our son attends school in Tompkins County. Tompkins County and the city of Ithaca, especially, have been our family’s ‘hub’ during our different eras in the Finger

Lakes. As young people, we’d go to the movies, shop for clothes, listen to live music, dance ballet (Polly), and partake in the variety of community offerings from Cornell and Ithaca College. Now, as a Seneca County family we continue to co-exist (Ithaca bumper sticker) in many of the same ways with our neighbors to the South. It’s also great to see Tompkins County folks enjoying the unique offerings of our rural community too! The well-being of all our communities is intertwined.”

“Public service is essential for older, muchloved communities like Ovid and throughout Tompkins County to be able to preserve and enhance our way of life in a place we call home.”

Handing Off the Legacy

By steVe l awrenCe

Throughout his All-American collegiate career as a running back at Cornell, and his 6-year NFL career, Ed Marinaro was not the guy handing off the ball. That changed last fall. Well... figuratively speaking.

Marinaro and his wife, Tracy, and Scott Malaga and his wife, Beth, were having dinner at the Boatyard Grill. Both men played on Ivy League title-winning Cornell football teams — Marinaro in ‘71 and Malaga in ‘88 — and they both had sons who came to play at Cornell as freshmen in 2021. At dinner, Ed said, “There have been three Ivy championship-winning teams at Cornell in the last 50-plus years... 1971, 1988 and 1990. Wouldn’t it be great if they all got together?” Malaga agreed that it would. Marinaro, knowing that Malaga has been a successful Sports Marketing exec for 30 years, handed the ball off and said, “Great. You can spearhead the effort to make it happen.”

Dianne Baughan — the widow of legendary coach Maxie — pictured with Scott Malaga and Mike McGrann, co-captains of the ‘88 championship team. (Photo: Provided)

Malaga did not fumble, and last weekend, nearly a hundred former players from the three teams and half again as many other guests returned to Cornell for the reunion of the Joint Ivy League Championship Teams. Scott told me, “I know how to work my networks, what buttons to push,” and the fact that he has been a co-founder and the Chairman of the Friends of Cornell Football since the organization’s inception, Malaga

had a solid network already in place to help promote the event. The event was held in numerous segments, starting with a gathering on Friday night, and then a Players’ Parade prior to Cornell’s home game against Princeton. The teams were recognized at halftime, and there were plenty of high-fives to go around when Cornell stormed back from a 14-0 deficit to pull off a dramatic 20-17 victory over the visiting Tigers. (It was Cornell’s third

consecutive victory.)

The Saturday evening gathering featured several speakers, like retired NFL attorney and Sports Law professor Buck Briggs, who gave a presentation focused on the powerhouse Big Red teams of a century ago — teams that beat schools like Ohio State and Penn State on their way to national titles. Next up was Tom Gaube of Cornell Alumni Affairs, then Athletic Director Nikki Moore, then sports journalist Jeremy Schaap. That lineup of presenters was followed by a player from each of the three championship teams: Malaga, (88), Rob Ryder (‘90) and Marinaro (‘71). Finally Brent Fellito from the ‘88 team wrapped it up.

I asked Malaga how it went on a scale of 1 to 10, and he said, “I have to say it was an 11.” My next question was, “Do you have any plans to bring everyone together again?” and he replied, “Maybe we can do it again when Cornell plays for its next

Ivy League championship.”

A side note: The Marinaros and the Malagas have been spending a lot of time in Ithaca over the past 4 years. “Eddie” Marinaro has wrapped up his collegiate eligibility and is currently finishing up his studies, and Luke Malaga has entered the professional world in NYC. Sydney Malaga just put the finish -

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can take. Wearing masks can prevent the spread

ing touches on her Big Red soccer career, and hopes to play in Europe. Now that both young Malaga athletes have finished their playing careers, their parents can let go of the apartment they have rented in Ithaca for the past 5 autumns, and get settled into their new residence in South Carolina.

I have attended other events that were

of many respiratory illnesses, not just COVID19. Well-fitting face masks, such as KN95 or fitted N95 masks can prevent the contraction of and spread of respi-

organized to connect current Cornell athletes with those who have come before, and Buck Briggs played a role in those as well. Asked why he liked being a part of these gatherings, he offered, “I respect anyone who can carry the academic load at Cornell, play a sport and navigate this complex world of social media, Cornell is a very important part

ratory virus particles.

“Many infections are picked up in airports, bus or train terminals, and at large gatherings,” Klepack said. “A mask can prevent you from getting

of my life, and I remember coming here as a freshman — a kid from a small town in upstate New York — and I realized that everyone was starting evenly on day one as a Cornell student. I have been very fortunate, I really enjoy connecting people, and if I can be a stepping stone for those connections to lead to something, it feels great.”

sick and spreading illness.” Free KN95 and N95 masks are available at TCWH’s office at 55 Brown Road in northeast

continued on page 18

Cornell and Cayuga Health

continued from page 12

have had the capacity to produce on its own, but can now oversee.

“They researched age-friendly business communities all over the country and the world,

for that matter,” Monroe said. “Packaging it all in a way that we could keep it going was a big ask, and they did that.”

Contributing students said they gained valuable experience learning not only from classroom assignments but also from their interaction with community and business partners.

“Things that we learned from the different talks or literature, we also get to see them in action,” said Jiayi Guo ’26, a design and environmental analysis major. “We’re not just working in a silo and designing a system, but looking at how do we actually make it work for people, so that it can evolve even after we graduate.”

“I really enjoyed the opportunity to work with so many different community partners

for this project,” said Della Blossom Alderson, a master’s student in urban and regional planning. “Businesses want to support our community members, so it’s an exciting opportunity for them to be recognized for the incredible work they’re already doing.”

Cayuga Health’s Long said he hopes the age-friendly designation draws attention to the many carefully considered design details that visitors might not immediately notice in the outpatient clinics, all aimed at fostering a calming and inviting environment.

“We want patients to understand that they can come here and not have challenges, and that care shouldn’t be a barrier,” Long said. “You shouldn’t have to feel like you can’t go somewhere to receive a service you truly need.”

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Ithaca upon request. If someone does experience symptoms or come down with an illness, staying home and minimizing contact with others is essential. Klepack advises avoiding

continued on page 21

Wednesday, December 3

Dallas Brass with the Ithaca College Wind Ensamble | 6:30 p.m.

Thursday, December 4

Ithaca Beer Company Celebrates 27 Years |

5:30p.m-7:30p.m. | 122 Ithaca Beer Drive

Voices of Freedom | 5:45 p.m. – 6:45 p.m. | 101 E. Green Street

Friday, December 5

Wreath Making Workshop | 6:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. | 615 Willow Avenue | $20-$40

Cécile McLorain Salvant |

7:30 p.m. | Bailey Hall, Cornell University | 230 Garden Avenue | $17.00 to $44.00

CALENDAR

Saturday, December 6

Longview Holiday Bazaar | 10:00 a.m – 3:00 p.m. | 1 Bella Vista Drive

Circus Culture Winter Showcase | 2:00 p.m. –3:00 p.m. and 7:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. | 116 West Green Street | $15.00 to $25.00

Trumansburg Annual Winterfest | 3:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m. | Main Street, Trumansburg, NY

Newfield’s 8th Annual Tree Lighting Ceremony | 5:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m. | Main Street, Newfield, NY

Sunday, December 7

Jessica Lynn’s A Very Classy Christmas | 6:00 p.m. | State Theatre Of Ithaca | 101 W. State Street

Thursday, December 11

2025 Annual Meeting | 4:30 p.m. – 7:30 p.m. | CCE Tompkins Education Center | 615 W. Willow Ave.

Friday, December 12

Student Film Screening

| 5:00 p.m. | 5 Cornell University | 144 East Avenue

Photos With Santa | Friday 6:00 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. | Saturday 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. |

Sunday 1:00p.m. – 3:00 p.m. | 24 Port Wadson Street

Red Cross Blood Drive | 10:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m | 615 Willow Avenue

Ithaca Ballet Presents: The Nutcracker | 6:30 p.m. | State Theatre of Ithaca | 107 West State Street

Saturday, December 13

1st Annual Winter Market | 11:00 a.m. –4:00 p.m. | 615 Willow Avenue

Ithaca Ballet Presents: The Nutcracker | 2:00 p.m. | State Theatre of Ithaca | 107 West State Street

Sunday, December 14

Tuesday, December 16

Femme Frequencies | 5:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. | Deep Dive Ithaca | 415 Old Taughannock Blvd.

Wednesday, December 17

Community Police Board Meeting | 4:30 p.m. – 6:30 p.m. | 3rd Floor City Hall

Diana Leigh’s Holiday Spectacular | 7:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m. | TreeHouse Studio And Lounge | 119 S Cayuga Street | $12.00 to $15.00

Thursday, December 18

The Constitution: Rights to Know And Immigration Rights | 6:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. | Tompkin’s County Public Library | 101 East Green Street

Old Time Music with Wicked Children At South Cider Hill | 6:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. | South Cider Hill | 550 Sandbank Rd.

Friday, December 19

Holiday Tap Takeover

| 11:00a.m. | Brewer’s Kitchen and Taproom | 1384 Dryden Rd

Holiday Movie Nights at The Grayhavens! | 6:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. | 657 Elmira Rd.

Saturday, December 20

Holiday Open Farm | Alpaca Petting at Shepard’s Creek Alpacas | 5957 Stilwel Rd., Trumansburg, NY

Sunday, December 21

Pancake Breakfast to Beefit Danby Volunter Fire Company | 8:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m. | 1780 Danby Road | $12.00

Tuesday, December 23

Press Bay Winter Holiday Food Market |

3:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m. | Press Bay | 116 W. Green Street

Wednesday, December 24

Community Police Board Meeting | 4:30 p.m. –6:30 p.m. | 3rd Floor City Hall

Saturday, December 27

Food Pantry at GYMSouthside Community Center | 12:00 p.m. –2:00 p.m. | 305 S Plain St.

Tuesday, December 30

Habari Gani: Annual Kwanza Celebration 2025 | 4:30 p.m. – 7:30 p.m. | 305 S Plain St. 2026

Saturday, January 10

Youth Entrepreneurship Market (YEM) Season 9 | 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. | REV: Ithaca Startup Works | 314 E. State Street | 5 Monthly Workshops

Friday, January 16

Red Cross Blood Drive |

10:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. | 101 E Green Street

Sunday, January 18

Cayuga Chambers Orchestra Presents: Martinu and Motzart | 3:00 p.m. – 4:10 p.m. | 306 N Aurora St. | $15.00 to $45.00

Monday, January 19

Old Blind Dogs at the

Lansing Area Performance Hall | 7:30 p.m. –10:00 p.m. | 1004 Auburn Rd, North Lansing, NY

Saturday, January 24

Winter Tracking Workshop | 9:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m | Register Online For Location | $150.00 to $250.00

Food Pantry at GYM-Southside Community Center | 12:00 p.m –2:00 p.m. | 305 S Plain St.

Sunday, January 25

Special Event: MLK Concert at Ford Hall | 4:00 p.m. | Free to the Public

Wednesday, January 28

Community Police Board Meeting | 4:30 p.m. – 6:30 p.m. | 3rd Floor City Hall Interfaith Dinner Series: Jainism at Muller Chapel | 5:30 p.m. | 953 Danby Rd.

Saturday, January 31

Respiratory Illness

continued from page 12 contact with vulnerable individuals, such as older adults and children.

“If you know you have been exposed, avoid being around highly vulnerable people until you know if you are infected or not,” Klepack said. “If you know you were exposed to COVID-19, use a test kit 2 – 4 days after exposure. When it is not possible to avoid vulnerable people, use a well-fitting mask and practice good hand hygiene.”

TCWH maintains an updated webpage with county-wide lab-confirmed cases reported to the New York State Department of Health. Its site shows weekly cases of flu, COVID-19, and monthly RSV cases. Due to some cases only being self-reported and some going untested, TCWH warns that case numbers are likely higher than what is recorded.

To learn more about the respiratory illness season, visit TCWH’s resource page at https:// www.tompkinscountyny. gov/All-Departments/ Whole-Health/Community-Health-Services/ Respiratory-Viruses