PRIME TIMES
A resource book for 55+
FEBRUARY 2026
Finger Lakes Wineries Keep Busy in Winter
• Best Comfort Meals in Town • What Local Wineries do During Winter • Book Tells Tale of “Rolling Acres” in Slaterville Springs • New County Historian Emphasizes Importance of Local Preservation • Calendar
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Cover Photo: Ruthie Crawford, Ruth Lucas, and Stephanie Lucas Houck together at Lucas Vineyards. Crawford and Lucas Houck run the winery together. Ruth Lucas has since passed. (Photo: Provided)
Braving the Cold for Community Recovery
By Steve L awrence
New Years Day... 15 degrees...
I walked outside, did a few brief tasks around my house, and made a note to self that being outside as little as possible would be a top priority. Thirty minutes later... I was having coffee in a warm cafe with a companion and two of my friends walked in. Cindy’s ears were bright red, Jim’s glasses were fogged up, and they were both rubbing their hands together, longing for that big dose of hot coffee. I asked, “What have you two been up to?” Jim said, “We just did the First Day hike at Taughannock Falls! It was a little chilly!” Okay... that made me feel a bit soft.
An hour after that interaction, I was visiting a friend on Glenwood Road, in a house overlooking the Ithaca Yacht Club, and I remarked that there was a surprising amount of traffic. She said, “They are
The Ithaca Chill Challenge is an annual fundraising event for Ithaca Community Recovery which raised nearly $50,000 this year. (Photo: Provided/Ithaca Community Recovery)
doing some event at the Yacht Club.” I stepped onto the deck, looked through the binoculars, and there was a group of people clad in parkas, boots and hats, and another group wearing swim wear, preparing to wade out into the water. I saw that one of them was my friend Liz Klohmann, who stepped into the lake, waded out a few steps until the water was
chest-deep, reached the balloons tied 40 feet away, unattached a balloon, completely submerged herself in the 40-degree water, then headed back to shore. It looked — to me — like a 60 second trip into hell.
That was not the first time Liz has made me feel like a slacker. I have written about her recent 5-mile Open Water Swim Challenge in St. Croix, her Iron -
manTriathlon triumphs and her work as a Yoga teacher. It was in a different capacity, however, that I gained a deeper insight into what led her to take a dip in Cayuga Lake on a bitter winter day. Stay tuned...
The event — known as The Annual Ithaca Chill Challenge — is one of several impressive local fund raising efforts (such as the AIDS Ride for Life, Women Swimmin’
and others), and benefits Ithaca Community Recovery, Inc. According to its website, “Ithaca Community Recovery is a small nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting the local recovery community. We do this by providing safe, affordable, and convenient meeting space for 12-step and other recovery-oriented groups in a drug and alcohol free facility... We receive no government funding, relying on rents from the groups we serve and several annual fundraisers.”
The agency’s mission clearly resonates with many in our community, as evidenced by the funding totals raised each year over the past decade. Sponsoring both individuals and teams, donors contributed over $54,000 last year, and aimed higher in 2026. Participants could raise “Dodge” money, and stay dry on the shore, or “Dip” money, and get into the water. This year’s donor list featured north of 70 participants, and some high-profile teams showed up — the Ithaca Police Department, Alternatives FCU, Beginnings FCU, the Finger Lakes Fitness Center and many more.
(ICR’s website features profiles of participants, many of whom explain the “Why” that compels them to take part.)
Back to Liz and to what she told me was her “Why.” In her Ithaca Chill Challenge personal statement, Liz wrote, “This is my sec-
ond year participating in the Chill Challenge to support ICR. My son Dylan died 3½ years ago of fentanyl poisoning. ICR’s programs and community were a source of support, encouragement, and friendship for him when he needed it most.
I also found deep care, wisdom, and connection through the Al-Anon groups that meet at ICR. I can’t think of a better way to honor and remember Dylan than by helping raise money for a community
continued on page 17
Surviving Ithaca Winter, One Comfort Meal at a Time
Editor’s Note: Kira was undoubtedly the Ithaca Times writer most capable of writing this piece. Having introduced me to several of the spots below, her winter survival instincts are unmatched.
Ithaca winter is not for the weak. Ankles twist on hillside commutes, lake effect flurries move off Cayuga, and skidding out at the roundabout on West Spencer Street becomes every driver’s worst nightmare. As someone notoriously ill-fitted for winter, my greatest survival skill for the cold season is the same one that got me through two breakups: knowing where to seek out comfort food.
With work, school, and procrastination in full session, eating cozy and casual while not breaking the bank is a top priority till Groundhogs day and beyond. Here are my favorite places to frequent for bites that warm the soul and senses right in
By Kira waLter
town and around the greater Ithaca area.
Glenwood Pines
It may be a bit of a hike down Taughannock Boulevard, but when it comes to a relaxing venue and comfort food classics, Glenwood Pines is where it’s at. The restaurant branches off a 6th generation bison farm rooted in the food community for decades, though it wasn’t formally established until the 70’s.
A two story house on the waterfront, this spot is stocked with a game room, full bar, not to mention the largest bobble-head collection I’ve seen in 21 years. There are ample tv’s present to appease the sports fanatics. Though the patio and deck are six inches under, snowy views from the toasty pub still add charm to the dine-in experience.
Pinesburgers ground fresh on Ithaca bakery bread have received
world-wide acclaim. Available all-year round, they’re joined on the menu by fried seafood, extraordinary sides and wings for a bargain. I’m always coming by for half a dozen smoked in their signature boulevard sauce, a blend between tangy barbecue and blue cheese. With original tater kegs, morsels of cheese, potato and chopped bacon, this meal is usually followed up by a very satiated nap.
Glenwood Pines is a local favorite featuring burgers, steaks and a view of Cayuga Lake in one of its two dining rooms. (Photo: Casey Martin/Ithaca Times File)
Lev Kitchen
I blame my next comfort food addiction on Lev Kitchen, whose renowned Malawach wraps aromatize the commons all year round, stealing my treat money on a biweekly basis. Crispy Yemeni flatbread wrapped around both sweet and savory toppings is a winter must: I always coerce a friend into splitting wraps with a side of Kennebec fries or fried oyster mushrooms.
Relatively new to Ithaca, Lev held its grand opening in 2022 and has been serving Middle Eastern inspired dishes since. The hip venue has a chalkboard for recs, many eclectic health drinks and a largely open kitchen. After ordering at the counter, I head for the upstairs seating where it’s typically empty and unusually warm. It’s the best
place to dethaw and dig into Levant spices.
Gorgers
Another commons icon spicing up the scent of central Ithaca is Gorgers Subs, with bread made in house and hot soup specials. Since its 2012 opening, the local institution opened a second location in Cortland, continuing a legacy of serving fresh sandwiches stuffed to the brim.
It’s a bit of a hole in the wall, but the allred seating area is adjacent to the open stove, by the fryer always running and the oven always yielding fresh loaves. Gorgers is definitely casual maxing and the perfect spot to take very hungry friends after a long day.
I like to say every person has their personal sandwich on the menu, and though I’ve explored delicious
options from Nashville Hot Honey to Coconut Shrimp, I’m two years loyal to the Chupacabra sandwich. Pulled pork, sharp cheddar, cilantro, chipotle ranch and chimichurri come together in this titan of subs for a flavor bomb that never disappoints. On true treat yourself days, I get this guy with fried eggplant panda wings and their strawberry coconut limeade, similar to a virgin pina colada.
Coal Yard Cafe
Due to its somewhat isolated location down Maple Ave, Coal Yard Cafe is certainly
In addition to their signature latte’s, Coal Yard Cafe’s french style crepes with a mixed berry compote fuel Ithaca Times writers on the coldest of winter days. (Photo: Maddy Vogel/ Ithaca Times)
continued on page 18
Lev Kitchen offers Middle Eastern inspired dishes at its eatery on the Ithaca Commons. (Photo: Lev Kitchen/Provided)
Finger Lakes Wineries Keep Busy in Winter
By MiK ayLa rovenoLt
Winter in the Finger Lakes
can be a slow time of year. There are no lake excursions, minimal vacationers, and unpredictable weather patterns. Despite the quiet appearance, the Cayuga Lake wineries keep bustling.
While winter is considered the off-season for local wineries, that does not mean its less busy than the harvest and tourism season. According to Shawn Kime, Winemaker and Vineyard Manager for the Thirsty Owl, winter is a season of preparation.
“December into January we’re getting wines ready for bottling,” Kime said. “We’re a long ways away, but that process has started. Stabilizing: heat stability, protein stability, and cold stability, and moving the wines into their final tanks, getting things where they need to be is important.”
In order to start
the stabilization process, wines are moved into their final tanks.
Kime added that during cold stabilization, there is a build up of crystals in the tanks. Thoroughly cleaning these crystals out of the giant tanks is time consuming, but an important part of the to-do list.
Nextdoor at Cayuga Ridge Estates, the winter tasks look similar, though each winery has their own way of doing things. For owners Tom
and Susie Challen, it is also a time of rest when they have limited hours.
“January is quiet but in February we have two events coming up and we have to be ready for those,” Susie said. “There’s organizing for [the events]. We have to get food prepared for the tastings, Galentine’s that is, and then we have a new one called ‘Pinch and Pour’ with an herb or spice, so there’s more happening now in February. There’s
not a lot of downtime.”
Galentine’s Weekend will take place Feb. 13 and 14 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. both days. Pinch and Pour is Feb. 21 and 22, also from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. both days, and focuses on spice and wine pairings.
To prepare for the winter weather, Tom shared that the vineyards have a busy time preparing the vines so the cold is less likely to damage them. To protect the roots and crown of the vines, they pile dirt mounds around the base to keep them warm when temperatures drop. This precaution helps keep the vines from dying out.
Tom added that they also plant rye in every other row to help harden off the vines. This is because the rye takes up nutrients and carbohydrates, which helps the vines survive the cooler temperatures.
“It also has a very extensive fibrous root
Ruthie Crawford, Ruth Lucas, and Stephanie Lucas Houck together at Lucas Vineyards. Crawford and Lucas Houck run the winery together. Ruth Lucas has since passed. (Photo: Provided)
system that opens up the soil and keeps it viable or porous and because of the organic matter in the soil, there are nutrients retained for the vines as well,” Tom said. “We do every other row because in the other rows we do subsoil in the fall. You’ll see the rows heaved because that subsoiling is compacting below the surface of the ground. We are breaking up any compaction that may be there and it opens up the soil so water can flow out and not drown the vines.”
This method proved useful for Tom last spring during the heavy rainstorms the region experienced. He said water was able to flow through the soil instead of becoming stagnant in the vineyard.
For Lucas Vineyards, the winter task list of shifting wine to new tanks, winterizing the vineyard, and preparing for the new year is similar. Winemaker Jeff Houck keeps a busy schedule.
“In the winery in the winter time we are analyzing the wines that were fermented this fall, putting the new vintages into barrels for dry reds and making projections for bot-
tling for 2026,” Houck said. “Kind of similar to what the girls do, my assistant and I are looking at how much we’ll bottle of each thing and if we want to look at a new product too.”
Houck and his assistant also keep an eye on the vineyards, and plow between the vines and pile dirt at the base to keep the freezing temperatures from damaging the vine, similar to the process shared by Cayuga Ridge.
“This time of the year we’re open Friday through Monday so those days we are mostly in the tasting room,” said Stephanie Lucas Houck. “But there’s a lot happening in the winery right now as far as winemaking stuff and on the off days we try to get a little bit of time off, but we also meet and try to plan for the year.”
Lucas Houck and sister Ruthie Crawford work together, with Houck, to plan events and keep Lucas Vineyards looking to the year ahead.
Further down the lake, Bet the Farm, a winery located in Trumansburg, started in 2006 with a case production of 100 cases of wine. Originally
located in the Village of Aurora, the winery eventually grew to a point where the owners could buy land in Tompkins County.
The Kalfs bought the land Bet the Farm is currently located on in 2017 and prepared the site for growing grapes, with planting and construction of the tasting room occurring in 2018. Since 2018, Bet the Farm has grown to be a 2,000 case winery with 6 acres of vinifera red grapes.
“We still host as many people as we can in the tasting room, but January through April is given over to preparing the wines that we harvested last year and fermented last year for bottling in the spring,” Managing Partner, Kit Kalfs, said. “We’re also maintaining the red wines in barrels which are bottled in the summer.”
According to Kalfs, in the winter they are also working on pruning the vineyard; taking excess wood and leaving the most viable canes for the upcoming growing season. The growing season starts in early May and continues through September and October for harvest.
Kalfs also said that in addition to the vine -
yard and winery work that has to take place, Bet the Farm is hosting events that can be found on their website.
“We try to get as many activities here as possible,” Kalfs said. “We’re really quiet by design, don’t have bands coming in. We might have a euchre night and have been talking about an Industry Night on Mondays where restaurants or other wineries come in and do something. We’re a lowkey winery anyway and are just trying to get people in and to share with everyone.”
Being able to share their wine is a lengthy process that spans the entire year, from planting and pruning to stabilization, blending, and bottling. Each step requires special attention and does not happen overnight.
“It’s important for people to know that wine making is a long process; people don’t see all the in between stuff from picking grapes to bottling,” Kime concluded. “Every step is just as important as another. There’s a lot that goes in the vineyard as well such as repairing wires, and pruning. Things might slow down but they never stop.”
Staying Imaginative Despite Doomsdays: A Mystery Set In Future Ithaca
By Kira waLter
Athriller-mystery set in 2039
Ithaca. You didn’t misread it. Though dozens of local authors take on Tompkins politics, romanticize the Finger Lakes or carve a stake in Ithaca literature through tourism, the town is rarely turned into a dystopia.
In long-term resident Amy Camille Doyle’s “SPF 1500: You Are Protected, But You Are Not Safe,” the world in decline is hosted right here. From Elmira prison riots to Governor Myrick, she speculates about the future of modern issues, how they will change the district, state, and greater nation.
The narrative opens on Emma McCall, a devoted environmental scientist called from Iceland to Ithaca after the recent murder of her brother. Chad, a former professor and researcher at Cornell, lived in the Belle Sherman area with his wife and teenage daughter
when his life abruptly ended. Emma’s grief and curiosity directs the saga, as she looks for the real cause behind his passing.
Meanwhile, detective Jada Jefferson is also on the case of Chad’s killer. Her story unravels in tandem as she visits Stewart Park, trendy
Fall Creek homes, and other village staples to follow a trail of crime.
The Doyle family has seen six generations in Ithaca, so little research was needed navigating the novel’s setting by memory.
“The book kind of wrote itself,” Doyle said. “I had so much in my
head to get on paper, and I knew the places.”
The writing process was very fluid for the author, after waiting years to debut a Finger Lakes central work of fiction. After 13 years working in Child Protective Ser-
continued on page 12
Amy Camille Doyle’s “SPF 1500: You Are Protected, But You Are Not Safe” is set in 2039 Ithaca. (Photos: Provided)
A Mystery Set
continued from page 11
vices and many more training new caseworkers and investigators as an NYS trainer, Doyle drew on her experience with law enforcement during her career.
“I’ve found a lot of times in mysteries and tv shows, there’s a put down of case workers,” Doyle explained. “And I hate that because, from my experience, they are just the most caring, diligent, hard-working people.”
Whereas series like “Law & Order” portray corrupt policemen and dismissive social service workers, “SPF 1500” is inspired by positive encounters with Ithacan authority. The narrative occasionally diverts to Fiona Farell, a fellow caseworker who has to relocate several children following their parents’ arrest.
The author addresses stigma around the sheriff’s department with officer David Olson, who serves justice and commits to the truth.
“They were always respectful and competent,” Doyle recalled from collaboration with the Tompkins County
Sheriff’s Department. “But they also need to work as a team to take care of their community and solve crime.”
While Doyle’s future Ithaca is riddled with positive depictions and altruistic personas, there is still corruption present across local systems. Election bias and overpowering corporations are not missing from the plot. In bigger picture news, the nation has banned abortion, causing the cessation of two states into New Vermont. Characters struggle with reproductive rights amidst moral calamity, and often face consequences. Despite legal ramifications, the controversy continues.
In terms of global welfare, environmental degradation has also shifted lifestyles, making the outdoors less habitable. Though scenes involve camping, seeking refuge in Ithaca’s forested spaces and landscape, there is a sense of both urgency and devastation about climate change. Inhabitable coasts, sinking cities, and the sun’s increasing strength warrant relocation, migration and solutions to protect from ultra-violet in a less sustainable world.
As a forecasted oasis
amidst rising sea levels and temperatures, Ithaca’s value as a home is also anticipated to increase dramatically.
“One concern about global warming, and people moving to climate safe areas, is they tend to get a little greedy there and want to keep the place for themselves,” Doyle said. “And I don’t think that’s Ithaca’s character. Everybody and anybody is welcome.”
As the town develops, Doyle is worried about gated communities and optimistic about expansion projects. She places faith in the zoning board, evident through Ithaca’s intact community and consistent diversity 15 years ahead.
Speaking to the diverse nature of Ithaca, she also described a trend towards people becoming “used to each other.” Beyond liberal diversity, she’s heard many conflicting voices resounding from Ithaca, so the cast of SPF 1500 represents those perspectives. Restaurant owners, Cornell faculty, folks commuting from rural Caroline, and other residents contribute to a richer mystery. No suspect is quite the same.
Reflecting on her publication, Doyle rec-
ognized the contrast between concocting a fun storyline while integrating real world issues.
“Even though it’s an entertaining, speculative, murder mystery mashup, I wanted a place where I could talk about real concerns,” she said. “I wanted to talk about social justice issues in the future, and because it’s fiction, I got to play with some really positive changes and not so positive ones too.”
She agrees it’s an especially fun read for someone familiar with the area, with so many Finger Lakes “easter eggs” planted into the plot’s evolution. “SPF 1500” was published this November, available on Amazon in both paperback and e-book (Kindle, downloadable PDF or EPUB file). As it circulates, Doyle works on sequels that incorporate other local narratives and Ithaca based characters. She expects another draft will be ready in 2026, featuring her debut book’s starring detective.
While drawing on a life spent in this community, Doyle allows the reader to be creative with futuristic visions, inventing utopias and dystopias alike.
continued on page 17
HOROSCOPES
ARIES — You’re usually full speed ahead, but today even superheroes need a nap. Take a break, laugh a little, and resist the urge to turn relaxation into a competition.
TAURUS — The stars strongly recommend comfort today. Good food, a cozy seat, and zero guilt. If resting were a sport, you’d win gold.
GEMINI — Your mind wants fun, fun, and more fun. Take a break, chat with friends, or enjoy something silly. Multitasking is allowed — napping counts too.
CANCER —Home is your happy place today. Rest, relax, and enjoy simple pleasures. Emotional drama is canceled — snacks are encouraged.
LEO — The spotlight can wait. Today’s performance is all about enjoying yourself without an— audience. Rest up — even stars need to recharge.
VIRGO — You may feel tempted to organize your relaxation. Don’t. Leave the to-do list behind and enjoy fun that requires absolutely no planning.
LIBRA — Balance is your thing, and today it means equal parts fun and rest. Say yes to laughter and no to overthinking. Harmony looks good on you.
SCORPIO — You’ve been intense lately — even for you. Lighten up, take a break, and enjoy something playful. Mystery can wait; comfort cannot.
SAGITTARIUS — Adventure is calling, but so is your couch. Today, fun comes in small doses and rest comes first. Wander later.
CAPRICORN — Work will still be there tomorrow. The stars insist you clock out early and enjoy guilt-free downtime. Yes, it’s allowed.
AQUARIUS — Your ideas are buzzing, but today’s best one is taking a break. Do something fun, weird, or wonderfully lazy.
PISCES — Dream, drift, and rest today. Fun arrives when you slow down. Bonus points if you laugh at something completely silly.
AROUND THE BEND
by
PICK-A-VOWEL
Fill in the missing vowels to complete the phrase.
Adam G. Perl
Silo Saga: A Voice From The Not So Distant Past
By charLey GithLer
On a clear, sunny day in late April 1943, Florence Henry boarded a bus in New Rochelle and left her life behind. She was joining her husband Alton at their new home, an 1848 farmhouse with no electricity, indoor plumbing, or telephone in the Town of Caroline, here in Tompkins County. They had abandoned careers in Manhattan and were starting over as dairy farmers, and Florence’s account of the ensuing 24 years has been published by the Tompkins County Historical Commission in a book titled Silo Saga. It’s a most remarkable tale.
With a wartime speed limit of 35 mph, and on roads that predate the highways of today, Florence likely had a good seven hours to contemplate her situation on that April day. Alton had worn her down over the course of the previous five years. She was leaving an advertising
“Silo Saga’ is a factual narrative of the years 1943-1967 at the farm known as “Rolling Acres” in Slaterville Springs. (Photo: Provided)
job in the Rockefeller Center, a world with “beauty salons and Fifth Avenue shops”, and a house in Westchester County. The musical “Oklahoma” opened on Broadway the week she left. Though she had spent her childhood on a farm, having left at the earliest opportunity,
her husband had zero farming experience. Yet it was his dream that had led them to a 138acre piece of land with a house and barn and a 15-cow dairy operation in Tompkins County. If you’re of a certain age, you’d be forgiven for calling the 1960s sitcom Green Acres to mind.
The ensuing quarter century would see the transformation of the farm, of Florence and of the community. Silo Saga isn’t a diary of the period, but a reminiscence written shortly after they sold the farm in 1965, with the events and people still fresh in her mind.
The Odyssey of how Florence’s manuscript came to be published, long after her death in 1997, is noteworthy, and reminds us that there are hidden gems out there. Her nephew Chan, who was a regular visitor to the farm throughout his childhood, had a chance encounter with a Cornell Food Science professor at Ithaca’s Chanticleer bar. The subject of the book somehow came up, and Chan mailed the document to the professor. Over the course of another couple of chance encounters (at least one other of which occurred at the Chanticleer), the book changed hands several times and
wound with local history aficionado Tim Larkin, who turned it over to the Tompkins County Historical Commission for publication, with the help of County Historian Carol Kammen.
The hamlet of Slaterville Springs in the Town of Caroline seemed at first like a remote outpost to Florence. The condition of the house didn’t help. We often forget, though, that the presence of Cornell in Ithaca ripples out into the surrounding communities. The 1920s and 1930s had seen a boom in local dairies, partly driven by research at Cornell which influenced processing techniques such as pasteurization. The Henrys made use of the university. Neighboring farmers called them “book farmers” because they consulted Cooperative Extension literature, consulted Ag School professors and took advantage of new techniques of artificial insemination and quantitative analysis of milk quality. It paid off, though. By the time they left, the farm, which resembled a 19th century operation when they moved in, was modernized. The team of horses was replaced by mechanized equipment. The house had plumbing, electricity, and heating.
The two postWorld War II decades saw significant changes in Caroline. Like all the outlying towns in Tompkins County, it was transitioning from being primarily an agricultural community. In 1950, two thirds of the county (200,000 acres) was being farmed. It’s less than half that now. The economics of dairy farming was shifting, too. Running a small family dairy operation is barely sustainable today when up against the economies of scale of corporate dairies. The Henrys’ dairy farm was one of dozens in the county. Today, there are eight. There’s a saying, which would certainly resonate with every farmer dating back to the Agricultural Revolution, that “farming is a series of emergencies”.
The Henrys had them all: weather, accidents, disease outbreaks, market volatility, equipment failure. One thing that comes through in Florence’s narrative is her roll-up-your-sleeves attitude. The other thing is the willingness of the Henrys’ neighbors to help. Time and again, the community pitched in and in some cases saved each other’s enterprises from catastrophe, and Florence’s amazement and deep gratitude is a recurring theme in her story. These relatively small family farms could not and did not operate in isolation from one another. That’s not to say that the Henrys were immediately welcomed with open arms. In a process surely familiar to anyone plunked down in an established rural
community, acceptance came slowly. Florence and Henry encountered initial skepticism and a little light hazing, but over time their perseverance and openness won out and they were able to count themselves as accepted. They belonged to the Grange, and served on town and county boards. Alton was elected Justice of the Peace in 1955.
My own grandmother was born a year before Florence Henry (1908), and also grew up on a farm before going off to college and leaving agriculture behind. I don’t know if it’s her turn of phrase or her can-do outlook, but Silo Saga felt like it was in my grandmother’s voice. That’s one of the charming things about the book. Florence, for continued on page 17
Aging Midbrain Neurons Face Energy Crisis Linked to Parkinson’s
Editor’s Note: This article first appeared in the Cornell Chronicle on Dec. 9, 2025.
Dopamine neurons in a part of the brain called the midbrain may, with aging, be increasingly susceptible to a vicious spiral of decline driven by fuel shortages, according to a study led by Weill Cornell Medicine investigators. The findings offer a potential explanation for the degeneration of this neuron population in Parkinson’s disease.
In the study, published Dec. 5 in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, the scientists examined how midbrain dopamine neurons, which have unusually numerous output branches, handle their high energy requirements. They showed that these neurons under normal conditions create a fuel reserve in the form of clusters of glucose molecules called glycogen. This allows the neu -
By JiM SchnaBeL, corneLL chronicLe
Researchers found that age-related energy loss in dopamine neurons may contribute to Parkinson’s disease.
(Photo: Provided)
rons to keep working for a surprisingly long time even when their usual supply of glucose from the blood is interrupted. However, the researchers also discovered that the neurons regulate their glycogen storage in a way that can leave them highly vulnerable to glucose shortages, especially as their functions begin to decline with aging.
“This vulnerability may explain the deaths of these midbrain neurons in Parkinson’s and is consistent with the idea that energy insuf-
ficiency is a common failure mode in neurological disorders,” said study senior author Timothy Ryan, the Tri-Institutional Professor of Biochemistry and Biophysics and a professor of biochemistry in anesthesiology at Weill Cornell Medicine.
Midbrain dopamine neurons — specifically in a region called the substantia nigra pars compacta — help regulate voluntary muscle movements as well as learning and motivation. Their degeneration in Parkinson’s accounts for
the classic muscle rigidity and other “motor signs” of the disease. Why most of these neurons degenerate in Parkinson’s is still not clear, though there is evidence that their functions begin to decline and their numbers decrease even with ordinary aging.
In the new study, Ryan and his team, including first author Camila Pulido, a research associate in biochemistry and biophysics, observed that rat midbrain dopamine neurons are remarkably resilient to interruptions in the usually continuous supply of glucose. Suspecting that these neurons create their own glycogen fuel reserve, as some muscle cells do, they confirmed this using a special glycogen-detecting antibody – the first direct demonstration that neurons make glycogen.
The team then discovered that these dopamine neurons regulate their synthesis of glycogen using dopamine-
sensing receptors — known as D2 receptors — on their own output terminals. Thus, more dopamine output means more D2 receptor activity and more glycogen storage. But this unexpected form of regulation creates a potentially dangerous vulnerability, in which less dopamine output leads to less glycogen storage. As the team’s experiments showed, when the neurons had no more glycogen stores, they became hypersensitive to glucose deprivation, ceasing to function almost immediately.
Braving the Cold
continued from page 5
agency that supports so many of us. If he were here, he’d just say, ‘Dip.’” Liz and I worked together to plan a celebration of Dylan’s life, and it was clear that going forward, she would bring the same level of commitment and ferocity to helping people in recovery as she has to every other dimension of her life. Proud to know ya, Liz. Donations can still be made at ICR’s website, www.ithacacommunityrecovery.org.
The researchers hypothesize that some combination of aging, environmental exposures and genetic risk factors can cause declines in these neurons’ dopamine outputs that result in reduced fuel resilience, worsening dysfunction and ultimately degeneration. They note that many of the known gene mutations linked to Parkinson’s cause impairments of cellular fuel supply and thus would increase the tendency for these neurons to enter this destructive spiral.
“Also consistent with
A Mystery Set
continued from page 12
A lot will undoubtedly change before 2039.
“Sometimes it feels like we’re close to utopia, but there’s too much going on,” she said.
Preserving a sense of imagination about complicated coming times, in Ithaca and beyond, is possible through “SPF 1500,” even with looming doomsdays and a planet on the precipice.
Kira Walter is a contributing arts and entertainment writer for the Ithaca Times.
our hypothesis is the fact that some antipsychotic medications, which reduce the activity of D2 receptors, presumably reducing glycogen storage in these neurons, can cause Parkinson’s-like movement dysfunctions as side effects,” Ryan said.
If this hypothesis is correct, then interventions to improve midbrain dopamine neurons’ resilience to glucose shortages might be able to prevent Parkinson’s or arrest its progress once it starts.
The researchers now plan to follow up
Silo
Saga
continued from page 15
all her background in advertising, is not a professional writer. That’s not to say she’s a bad writer — she’s not. She’s witty, and has a good eye for the telling detail, but her writing also has a certain genuineness that would be difficult to counterfeit. She came to wholeheartedly embrace being in nature, and some of her most lyrical passages are about the rhythm of the seasons and her connection to the land.
It’s a good read. Florence was 35 when
with studies of glycogen storage in other types of neurons.
“We want to look first at how different dopamine neuron populations across the nervous system differ in their storage of glycogen,” Pulido said.
The research was funded in part by the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, part of the National Institutes of Health, and in part by Aligning Science Across Parkinson’s through the Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson’s Research.
she left the city life, and her observations are sharp. She’s writing of a time, though, when the expectations of a farm wife include working in the dairy operation and total responsibility for running the household. It was also a time when a husband’s decision to chuck it all and become a farmer meant that’s what was going to happen. Silo Saga is available at the History Center/ Visitors’ Center on the Commons, and from Historic Ithaca. On Saturday, Jan. 24 at noon, the Tompkins County History Center will host Tim Larkin, who will give a talk about the book.
Surviving Ithaca Winter
continued from page 7
gatekept, even though there’s often a full house. The East Hill eatery has operated out of a former coal office since 2013: its rustic fireplace vibes interior is the ideal brunch/lunch spot for a snowy day. If you don’t come during rush hour, it’s a great spot to hang around for some light work or reading to boot.
The menu offers a wide variety of both breakfast staples and “unusual suspects,” with whacky fan favorites like duck confit pancakes, ranch eggs, and my personal favorite, the jailhouse wrap. Packed with pork, avocado, rice, eggs, and crunch sweet potato hash, I get my regular with anything off the one of a kind latte menu. Lately I’m choosing between their banana syrup iced mocha and a wicked good salted caramel iced latte.
Yellow Deli
Despite controversy around the country, the Yellow Deli offers one of the inarguably coziest places to escape the windchill for quick casual dining. Its recent open -
ing in 2023 provoked debate, but during three years in business, the joint has served full dinners for a little over ten dollars. Sandwiches served hot with chips and coleslaw come in baskets while soups and hearty salads hit hard with buttered bread.
Folk-like instrumentals and alpine cabin energy are complemented by warm yellow light and strong heating. The glazed sweet-potato pound cake and mate infused dandy blend have become constant cravings. This spot caters to winter wanderers on an unbeatable budget.
Dolce Delight
Also on the outskirts of town, Dolce Delight
is definitely worth the ride from c-town/downtown, or an awkward 20 minute walk from IC campus. At the corner of West King and Danby Road, the cafe-bakery has a festive vibe with holiday decor, truffles and a window sill collection of snowy miniature houses. The spot dates back to 2009, using local roasters like Gimme! Coffee at a full barista bar with several specialty drinks in rotation. Bagel Lover’s bagels out in Dryden supply the kitchen with inspiration for an innovative sandwich menu, while Purity ice cream is carried for dessert a la mode. Sourcing Ithaca flavors, this spot is my favorite place for a
good gossipsession— far enough out of town to first name last name folks—yet somehow, super Ithaca centric.
continued on page 20
Dolce Delight offers hearty brunch and sweet baked goods at its location between South Hill and Danby. (Photo: Dolce Delight via Instagram)
Tacos CDMX in Press Bay Alley offers quick and customizable lunch options. (Photo: Mark Syvertson/Ithaca Times File)
Longtime Educator Charley Githler Appointed Tompkins County Historian
By Maddy voGeL
Longtime local educator Charley
Githler has been appointed as Tompkins County’s newest county historian. Having taught history to generations of students at the Newfield Central School District, Githler will guide the local record keeping and historical programming for the next three years.
Githler was unanimously appointed by the Tompkins County Legislature during its Jan. 21 meeting. He succeeds Laura W. Johnson-Kelly, who had a brief stint in the role, and longtime county historian Carol Kammen, who retired from the role in 2023.
“These are big shoes that I have to fill,” Githler told the legislature. “Carol Kammen is a titan in the local history world.”
For regular readers of the Ithaca Times, his name may ring a bell. Githler authors the popular satirical political column “Surrounded
Charley Githler is the Ithaca Times columnist behind “Surrounded by Reality.”
(Photo: Barbara Adams/Ithaca Times)
by Reality” and occasionally writes “From
“Important issues require looking back at what has been done in the past.”
the Archives” pieces spotlighting artifacts and moments from local history. He has written for
the Times for over 20 years, and shared the news of the publication’s transition to new ownership after over half a century in circulation last year.
Githler grew up in Rochester and spent time in Ithaca in his
youth. He graduated from Cornell University with his history degree in 1978 and attended SUNY Buffalo for law school shortly after. After 10 years practicing law, his lifelong familial ties to the finger lakes brought him back to the region. He moved to Tompkins County in the mid 1990s for his teaching gig at Newfield and remained an educator in the district until his retirement in 2021, a decision he said was driven by the pressures of pandemic-related teaching demands. He primarily taught American history, but taught classes that focused on local history as well.
“I was very glad that I wound up in Newfield,” Githler said in an interview with the Ithaca Times. “I feel like I had a greater impact in a district that size.”
But Githler has always been interested in history, even before studying and teaching it.
continued on page 20
Surviving Ithaca Winter
continued from page 18
I always get the Danby Sandwich, with a sesame bagel, egg, spinach, tomato, bacon and cream. I try whatever latte is in season as the creators never disappoint.
Tacos CDMX
The last comfort
Charley Githler
Appointed Historian
continued from page 19
He recalled that the first chapter book he ever read was a biography of Babe Ruth.
“People become more interested in history as they get older,” Githler said, “but I started out right out of the box interested in history.”
He has served as a member of the Newfield Historical Society’s board of directors and has spent the past two years as a voting member of the History Center in Tompkins County. After assuming his new role, Gith -
food obsession on my list takes us back to the heart of town with Tacos CDMX in Press Bay Alley. Here, the menu is small and simple but it’s impossible to place a bad order. Tacos come with crispy cheese, chopped cilantro, and salsa: you can pick your protein before lunch is made on a flattop stove just before your eyes.
Although the restaurant is an indoor-outdoor hybrid during summer, a tucked away glass wall
ler plans to step down as a voting member but remain a member of the board’s committees.
New York State law dictates that each county and municipality appoint a local historian. Githler said that because the language of this law is vague, the role of a county historian can vary widely across the state. In Tompkins County, Githler’s predecessor set the stage for the historian to play a crucial role in local history preservation.
“[Kammen is] a huge figure, nationally, really, in local history,” Gither said. “She turned [being a] Tompkins County historian into a pretty substantial thing. She had no real guidance going into it, she sort of built it over the years.”
facing the alley comes down in winter: the venue incubates the heat and aroma of seared tortillas. In acrylic seating with natural lighting, a hot hand-held lunch or dinner is easily available here at five bucks a pop. I usually get Al Pastor and Asada for a full meal, with fresh pineapple or one taco to go if I’m just passing through. The stellar quality of ingredients and simplicity of a good taco here never gets old.
Githler will chair the county’s historical commission and the committee of municipal historians. He will also act as a liaison to the Tompkins County Legislature and coordinate efforts with historians in surrounding counties. He said he hopes to increase collaboration between municipal historians during his time in the role.
Preserving local history helps communities make better decisions by learning from the past, Githler said.
“Every community faces reoccurring issues,” Githler said. “Contextualizing the recurring issues, I think, is very important for a historian.”
In Tompkins County, environmental battles
When a cold front moves through town, or I begin to doubt my strength against Ithaca winter, I cope and console with these comfort staples. Don’t get me wrong, our snowy wonderland has its charm. But without routinely treating myself to a hot culinary delight, I’d never make it to Punxsutawney Phil’s big decision day on Feb. 2. The Ithaca food scene is my lifeline till the first flower blooms in March.
are just one example of historically reoccurring issues. Githler believes county historians should bring attention to many of the ongoing efforts to push back against developments that can cause environmental damage.
“Here’s the thing about the Finger Lakes: it’s kind of off everybody else’s radar,” Githler said. “We think it’s the center of the world, but it’s not. It’s a place to stash landfills, crypto-mining facilities, AI data centers and nuclear power. We need to push back on that and we do have a history of doing it, but I think it’s important for a historian to say, ‘Hey, we’ve had to jealously guard these resources in the past and we need to keep doing that.’”
WANTED: COMMUNITY READERS
Your Voice Matters—Now More Than Ever
The Ithaca Times and Finger Lakes Community Newspapers invite local students, residents and visitors of all ages to 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.
Participants volunteer a small amount of time to read selected pieces aloud. These recordings will be shared online, allowing listeners to hear local news and ideas in the voices of their neighbors—young and old, longtime residents and newcomers alike.
The project fosters media literacy by helping
participants engage more deeply with journalism, strengthens civic connection by bridging readers, listeners, and reporters, and revives an oral tradition that echoes the town criers and pamphleteers whose words helped shape American democracy.
In an era of social and political dis-ease, Sounds of Democracy offers a simple but powerful act: listening to one another.
No professional experience is required—just a willingness to lend your voice. Participants will be credited online as storytellers in the Sounds of Democracy archive. (Minors may participate with parental permission.)
If you’re interested in volunteering, please contact Roy Allen, Director of Strategic Partnerships, at Roy@ithacatimes.com.
Use “Sounds of Democracy” in the subject line so we can keep everything organized.
We look forward to hearing from you. Thank you for listening.
— The Ithaca Times, Trumansburg Free Press, Ovid Gazette, Interlaken Review, News Chronicle, Tompkins Independent and Prime Times.
Finger Lakes Community Newspapers
Wednesday, February 18
Ithaca Loves Teachers @ Tompkins County Public Library | 101 E. Green Street | 2-4 p.m. | Free |
Join us for a happy hour in our Makerspace as we show our appreciation for all teachers. Participants will have the opportunity to explore our 3D printers, laser cutter, Cricut, sewing machine, and other arts and crafts tools.
Forensics for Writers — Workshop | 215 N. Cayuga Street | 4-5:30 p.m. | Free |
Join Mary Jumbelic, M.D. at Ithaca’s Buffalo Street Books for workshop “Forensics For Writers” focused on the techniques she utilized with writing her most recent work Speak Her Name (2025)
Williamson Studio Recital at Nabenhauer Recital Room | Whalen Center for Music in Ithaca College | 7 p.m. | Free
Thursday, February 19
TCPL Teen Edition: Video Game Tournament —
Mario Kart | 101 E. Green Street | 4-5:30 p.m. |
Teens — Start your engines! We’ll set up
CALENDAR
Mario Kart 8 Deluxe on our biggest projector and play together. Snacks will be provided! 4:00-4:20 — Warm-up and registration 4:20-4:30 — Break and finalize bracket 4:30 — Tournament begins!
Black History Month Concert At Ford Hall | Ford Hall at Ithaca College | 7 p.m. | Free
Friday, February 20
Mutts Gone Nuts Featuring Hilby! | State Theater of Ithaca | 107 W. State Street | 6:15 p.m. |
Tickets starting at $37.00 | Come see a dozen of the world’s most talented fourlegged performers, in an uproariously funny, comedy dog spectacular that is leaving audiences everywhere howling for more!
Saturday, February 21
Aster Film Festival | 430 College Ave. | Schwartz Center for the Performing Arts | 1-5 p.m. Saturday and Sunday |
Join the Department of Performing and Media Arts for the 13th Annual Aster Film Festival on Saturday and Sunday, February 21-22,
from 1:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m. on each day, in the Film Forum, Schwartz Center for the Performing Arts. This ticketed event is free and open to the public.
Sunday, February 22
Esemble X Presents: Boulangerie 1 (CU Music) | 129 Ho Plaza, Barnes Hall | 3 p.m. | Free
Tuesday, February 24
Tompkins Chamber 2026 Economic Summit | 120 E. Green Street, Ithaca, NY | 8:30 a.m – 1:30 p.m. | $25-$75
Magical Realism: A Fiction Writing Workshop at TCPL | 101 E. Green Street | 5:30-7:30 p.m. Join Augusto Luiz Facchini and enhance your craft in a new writing workshop focused on Magical Realism!
Wednesday, February 25
Swing Dance Party | 119 S. Cayuga Street | 7-9 p.m. | $5 cover |
The Ithaca Swing Dance Network hosts a swing
dance party with DJ Kendall. Come practice your dance moves in this friendly atmosphere! Large wood dance floor.
Thursday, February 26
Farm & Food Business Planning | 615 Willow Ave., Ithaca, NY | 9:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. | Free |
In this hybrid, interactive workshop, participants will learn about the basic components of business planning and have time to work on their own business plan. All levels welcome! John Crist Live! | State Theater of Ithaca | 107 W. State Street | 6 p.m |$37+
Friday, February 27
Tigran Hamasyan — Cornell Concert Series | 144 East Avenue | 7:30 p.m |
Tigran Hamasyan is considered one of the most remarkable and distinctive jazz-meets-rock pianists/ composers of his generation. A piano virtuoso with groove power, Hamasyan seamlessly fuses potent jazz improvisation and progressive rock with the rich folkloric music of his native Armenia.
Saturday, February 28
Used Photography Equipment Sale |
950 Danby Road | 11 a.m. –4 p.m. | Free
Explore a selection of gently used cameras, vintage equipment, lenses, tripods, and more. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a beginner, this is the perfect opportunity to uncover hidden treasures.
Food Pantry @ Southside Community Center | 305 S. Plain Street | 12-2 p.m.
Family Movies @ TCPL: Gnomeo & Juliet | TCPL | 101 E. Green Street | 2-4 p.m. |
Join us for an afternoon movie on our “Big Screen” in the Thaler/Howell Programming Room. This Saturday we will be screening the animated family film Gnomeo & Juliet. Gnomeo & Juliet is rated G. The Machine Performs Pink Floyd at the State Theater of Ithaca | 107 W. State Street | 8:00 p.m. | Tickets Available Online
Now at https://stateofithaca.org/ | The New Yorkbased quartet performs a diverse mix of The Floyd’s extensive 16-album repertoire, complete with faithful renditions of popular hits as well as obscure gems.
Wednesday, March 4
Tabletop Role-Playing Game Brainstorming Group | TCPL | 101 E. Green Street | 6-7:30 p.m. |
Support all levels of experience from new to veteran. Brainstorm ideas, design encounters & mechanics, talk out challenging game issues with supportive gamers. You can even share techniques, tools & triumphs. All are welcome.
Friday, March 6
First Friday Night Gallery | Downtown Ithaca | 5-8 p.m. |
Gallery Night is a walkable art show featuring the latest artworks created by highly skilled local and regional artists.
Keb’ Mo’ at the State Theater Of Ithaca | 107 W. State Street | 8 p.m. | Tickets Available Online at https://stateofithaca.org |
With five GRAMMYs, 14 Blues Foundation Awards, and a groundbreaking career spanning nearly 50 years under his belt, Keb’ Mo’s got nothing left to prove. Just don’t tell him that.
Saturday, March 7
Downtown Chili Cookoff | Ithaca Commons, 171 E. State Street | 12 p.m. | Free | For more details, visit https://www.cityofithacany.gov/
Warren Haynes Band at the State Theater of Ithaca | 107 W. State Street | 7 p.m. | Tickets Starting at $48
Sunday, March 8
Live Latin Jazz & Salsa: Dance, Listen, and Play! | 391 Turkey Hill Road | 7-9 p.m. | $10-$20 |
Join the Salsa Ithacana band for an unforgettable evening celebrating the rhythms, melodies, and soul of salsa and Latin jazz. You can dance, participate in activities, or just chill and listen to the band!
Monday, March 9
Sustainability & Climate Justice Commission Meeting | Common Council
Chambers, 3rd Floor City Hall 108 E Green Street | 5-7 p.m.
Sunday, March 15
Pancake Breakfast to Benefit Danby Volunteer Fire Company | 1780 Danby Road | 8-11 a.m. | $12
Tuesday, March 17
The High Kings — The Rocky Road Tour | 107 W. State Street | 7:30 p.m. | $43+ |
Ireland’s leading folk group, The High Kings, are set to excite fans once again with the announcement of their Rocky Road Tour 2026.
Thursday, March 19
Lord of the Rings & The Hobbit in Concert | 107 W. State Street | 3:30 p.m. | $60+
The Music of Hans Zimmer | 107 W. State Street | 7 p.m. | $60+
