ITHACA COMMUNITY NEWS
February #2 2003

LABOR, ARTS, EVENTS, ACTIVISM, LOCAL HISTORY, YOUR LETTERS, FUN STUFF!

[This is the SECOND OF TWO MESSAGES MONTHLY sent to 7,067 Ithaca area residents]

SEVENTEEN READERS OF THIS ISSUE HAVE WON GIFT CERTIFICATES with Ithaca Bakery ($5), Viva Taqueria ($5), Cinemapolis/Fall Creek Pictures (2 tickets), Ithaca Fine Chocolates (4-pack), Gimme! Coffee (1# coffee), Oasis Grocery ($5), ($6), Sparrow's Wines ($10), Ten Thousand Villages ($10), ABC Cafe ($10), Cafe Strand ($5), Acorn Designs ($7.50), Toko Imports ($5), Dinosaur Drygoods ($10), The Bath Bar ($10) White Lotus Home ($10), Surya Incense (pkg), The Yoga Corner (free class). WINNING EMAILS (randomly selected by computer) ARE NOTED BELOW. Winners reply sending their mailing address.

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THE DOMINION OF ITHACA-- 123 local websites with "Ithaca" in domain name.
accessithaca.com real estate
bbithaca.com bed & breakfasts
Chapter House tavern/restaurant
christchapelithaca.org church
cityofithaca.org City Hall
csma-ithaca.org Community School of Music & Arts
dance-ithaca.org swing dance events
dentistithaca.com Dr. Ormsby
downtownithaca.com Downtown Ithaca Partnership
everythingithaca.com directory
ecovillage.ithaca.ny.us co-housing
fccithaca.org 1st Congregational Church
firstassembly-ithaca.org First Assembly of God Church
firstpresithaca.org 1st Presbyterian Church
historicithaca.com Historic Ithaca
www.holidayinnithaca.com
hotithaca.com February events
innithaca.com tourist lodging
Ithaca 360 virtual tours of Ithaca
ithaca.coop GreenStar Food Co-op
ithaca.edu Ithaca College
ithaca.edu/ithacan Ithaca College student newspaper
ithaca.indymedia.org readers write the news
ithaca.logosbookstores.com
ithaca.ny.us original IthacaNet URL
ithacaagway.com
ithaca-airport.com
ithaca-apartments-belleayre-dewitt.com 700 Stewart Ave.
ithaca-apartments.com landlords
ithacabakery.com
ithacaballet.org
ithacabeer.com
ithacabirthgroup.org
ithacacalendarclock.com new/heritage clocks 1865-present
ithacaclassifieds.com FREE INSTANT CLASSIFIEDS: buy, sell, request, swap: goods, jobs, homes
ithacacommonground.com nightclub & concerts
ithacacommunitychorus.clarityconnect.com singing group
ithacacommunityorchestra.org
ithacaconcertband.org
ithacacounselor.com Glenna Dunaway, CSW-R
ithacadavinci.org professional job search
ithacadeltagamma.com sorority
ithacadentists.com Drs. Fey & Regnier
Ithaca Directory Ithaca links
ithacadoulas.com assistance for new mothers
ithacaestaterealty.com
ithacaevents.com fun stuff
ithacaeye.com ophthalmology
ithacafestival.org annual community festival
ithacafire.org fire department
ithacafilms.com "Green Lights" film set in Ithaca
ithacafinechocolates.com organic & worker-friendly
ithacaflowers.com flower shop
ithacagiftshop.com" Ithaca gifts
ithacagun.com gun manufacturer
ithacaglass.com glasscrafters
ithacahealth.org member-owned nonprofit health financing system: $100/year!
ithacahemp.com hemp goods
ithacahockey.com
ithacahome.com realty
ithacahours.com is founder's local currency site
ithacahours.org is HOUR board's site.
ithacajournal.com daily Gannett capitalist paper
ithacalacrosse.com
ithacamaps.org maps & demographics
ithacamarket.org farmer's market with 110 vendors
ithacamart.com free & paid online classifieds
ithacamed.com group medical practice
ithacameetings.com convention spaces
ithacamensfest.org Mens' Festival
ithacamontessori.org private school
ithacamusic.org groups & gigs
ithacamusicacademy.org music instrument lessons
ITHACANET.ORG many more local sites
ITHACANEWS.ORG the voice of grassroots ithaca! keyword searchable archive
ithacanhs.org Neighborhood Housing Services
ithacaorthopaedics.com Drs. Anderson, Greene, Roach
ithacapages.com yellow/white pages
ithacaparents.org drug-free tips
ithacaperipherals.com inkjet, thermal & impact printers
ithacaportal.com more local links
ithacapregnancy.com alternatives to abortion
Ithacapress.com vanity publisher
ithacaproduce.com wholesale food
ithacaradio.org radical radio program WEOS, Mondays 6:30pm
ithaca-real-estate.com realtor
ithacarealtors.com
ithaca-rent.com realtor
ithacarenting.com realty
ithacarotary.org civic service organization
ithacasingles.org mixers
ithacasoccer.com soccer league
ithacasquash.com squash teams
ithacastation.com restaurant
ithacastring.com custom instrument building
ithaca-student-apts.com landlord
ithacasucks.blogspot.com "humor & verbal anarchy"
ithacaswimming.org aquatics club
fundraiser for food pantries
ithacataxi.biz taxi service
ithacatileandhardwood.com
ithacatimes.com weekly hip/conservative paper
ithacavineyard.org Vineyard Church of Ithaca
ithacavirtualtours.com real estate
ithacawaldorf.com Waldorf School
Ithaca Integrated Community Wellness Center
ithacayc.com Ithaca Yacht Club
ithacayouthbureau.org
ithacayouthockey.com
ithacaymca.com YMCA
networkwellnessithaca.com Pierre Gremaud chiropractor
obgyn-ithaca.com gynecologists
Radio Free Ithaca streaming local music
realithaca.com real estate links
statetheatreofithaca.com
stjohnsithaca.org St. John's Episcopal church
stpaulsithaca.org St. Paul's Methodist Church
town.ithaca.ny.us Town of Ithaca government
unitarian.ithaca.ny.us Unitarian Universalist Church
villageatithaca.org school advocacy for minority youth
visitithaca.com general tourist intro to community
westhavenfarm.ithaca.ny.us organic farm at EcoVillage
willowithaca.com restaurant
---GOT MORE? send to [email protected] This list will be updated.

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MEET THE POLICE: "THERE IS NO US AND THEM. IT'S ALL US."
"You are invited to a unique four hour free workshop designed to build mutually beneficial relationships between local residents & Ithaca Police officers & staff. Includes activities promoting healthy communication skills, conflict resolution skills & establishing common ground. It is also a good opportunity to connect w/ each other in a meaningful & respectful way as fellow human beings. These community events are organized by local residents & are open to everyone 16 yrs+. Ilonka 273-1779 to register for one of these: 3/14, 3-7pm * 3/17, 11-3pm * 3/21, 3-7pm * 3/22, 11-3pm * 3/28, 3-7pm * 3/31, 5-9pm * 4/4, 3-7pm. Refreshments provided.

TOMPKINS COUNTY fights attacks upon civil liberties: 3/4 at 5:30pm Autumn Leaves. list: [email protected]

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ITHACA FUN

FISK JUBILEE SINGERS: 3/29 at 8:00pm, Statler Auditorium, Cornell. "The a cappella Singers, formed in 1871, have preserved, presented, & interpreted the Negro spirituals created during the slavery era to audiences worldwide ever since." Free tickets at Convention & Visitors Bureau, East Shore Dr.
---3/28, at 4:30pm, Goldwin Smith Hall, talk by Andrew Ward, author of "Dark Midnight When I Rise: The Story of the Jubilee Singers. Nick Salvatore 255-2240
---BLACK HISTORY MONTH: list of local events

UTAH PHILLIPS folk artist, singer, storyteller, labor organizer, hobo, historian, philosopher. 3/1, 8pm, Kulp Auditorium, IHS. Folk Song Club Ticket $15 (1/2 HR accepted) at Ithaca Guitar Works, Borealis Books, Small World Music.

ITHACA CONCERT BAND Dances, Marches, Spirituals 3/2 at 4:00pm Kulp Auditorium, IHS. Free.

GALLERY NIGHT: Eleven downtown art galleries hold openings 3/7, 5:00-8:00pm. Start at CSMA, 330 E. State, get "Art Port" & map.

WOMEN'S WORKS 2003: concert of works by female composers, poets, and more! 3/2, 4pm, First Unitarian Church (Buffalo & Aurora). Tickets at the door; 100% HOURs accepted. 844-4039

PATTI WITTEN & Prairie Doll w/ Urban Horse Thieves 3/8 4-7pm at Common Ground. All ages, smoke-free, $5 cover, HOURS accepted

SISTER 2 SISTER: AN EVENT FOR GIRLS 3/29 half day for middle schoolers planned by high schoolers. "Geared to knowing yourself better & thinking about the future." Mary

TEENS WRITE! Creative Writing Workshop for Young Writers, ages 12-18, led by Irene Zahava. Meeting at the Tompkins County Public Library in the Thayer/Howell Programming Room. Thursdays, 4-5pm, March & April. Attend one, some, or all. Free. No registration required. [email protected]

* POETRY SLAM 3/7 at Juna's Cafe 8pm
* "LOOKING FOR POETRY OF ALL KINDS" new poetry journal [email protected] deadline 2/24. NYS ARTS GRANTS $500-$1,000 deadline 3/15: audio, film, video, computer: must be NYS non-student.

CAYUGA NATURE PHOTOGRAPHERS show thru March, Unitarian Church, reception 3/4, 7:30-9pm.

SEE SPOT COMMUNITY ART SPACE 108 The Commons. 277-7560
* 2/27 Wonder Monday 9-11pm. Independent soft rock. $3.
* 2/28 Unskilled Labor, 8-10:30pm. Coffehouse favorites, $3.
* 3/1 The Edgeplay Tour, 9-11pm. Larry Slack, singer, guitarist, adventurist. $4.
* 3/7 Gallery Night Opening Reception 5-8 p.m. Fiber art w/ Celibacy Pants, Duct tape fashions, interactive installation w/ puppets, mirrors, more! 277-7560.

ARLO GUTHRIE at State Theater 3/8, 8:00 pm. Reserved tickets from Ticket Center at Clinton House; GreenStar; at 273-4497 or 1-800-28-ITHACA & www.ithacaevents.com. 1/2 HOUR/ticket accepted. With Arlo are son Abe, daughter Sarah Lee Guthrie & son-in-law Johnny.

SWIMMING IN THE SHALLOWS comedy at The Kitchen Theatre. Performances to 3/15, Thursday to Saturday 8:00pm & Sundays 4:00pm. Tickets $14.50 - $16.00 at Ticket Center in Clinton House, Willard Straight Hall, Dillingham Box Office at IC, or via 273-4497. Group rates: 272-0403. 25% HOURS accepted. [email protected]

SCIENCENTER ELEBRATES GRAND OPENING OF NEW ADDITION 2/27-3/8.
Ribbon Cutting Ceremony, 2/28, 10:30am.
Member Appreciation Night, 2/28, 6:30-8pm. Hands-on activities. Treats for members only.
Community Day, 3/1, 10am-5pm. Free admission to everyone. Hands-on activities & demonstrations.
Volunteer Appreciation Day, 3/2, noon-5pm. free to all Sciencenter volunteers.
Early Childhood Week, 3/4-3/7, 10am-5pm. Children 4 & under free. (Groups w/ >5 make reservations.)
Senior Day, 3/4, 10am-5pm. Kids >65 free.
Homeschoolers Day, 3/5, 10am-5pm. free for homeschoolers & families.

ISRAELI DANCE Thursdays 8-10pm. free, all welcome. Temple Beth El, Court/Tioga. 257-6418

Jody Kessler, singer/songwriter, Autumn Leaves Cafe, 2/28, 6:30-8:30pm: $3-5 donation, HOURS accepted. Becca Harber's nature art, Autumn Leaves Cafe during March. Original poetry & songs 3/10, 6:45-8pm, free

CABLE TV CHANNEL 13 SCHEDULE

"LAJ57" wins gift certificate to Viva Taqueria. Reply w/mailing address by 3/15 to claim.
"ZUCY63" wins gift certificate to Ithaca Bakery. Reply w/mailing address by 3/15 to claim.
"JFENDRICKJAYNES" wins gift certificate to Oasis. Reply w/mailing address by 3/15 to claim.

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ITHACA FOOD NEWS

ALL-YOU-CAN-EAT SPAGHETTI DINNER 2/28, 5-7pm, St. John's Episcopal Church. Live music: $6/adult, $4/child. HOURS accepted. "DAP Program provides advocacy, case management, mentoring to Tompkins Co. youth at risk for placement out of home (detention, foster care, group homes). Recent county budget cuts socked us this year making our annual benefit more important than ever." 272-0900

OASIS NATURAL GROCERY is our locally-owned unionized (UAW2300) anti-war neighborhood health food store. They'd appreciate your business especially while the economy's slow. One HOUR accepted Sundays.

ABC Cafe now has a website which contain menus of live music and food.

GREENSTAR COUNCIL CANDIDATES SOUGHT: get application from GreenStar's front desk, submit by 3/1. There are six Council seats available of 15 total. This is a big opportunity to help GreenStar fulfill its mission of providing good food cheap, reinforcing local agriculture, reducing our dependence on environmentally destructive packaging & products, reducing our dependence on multinational corporations, relying on member labor, paying a livable wage, etc. Council members get 17.5% superworker discount. With democracy challenged nationally, our local co-op democracy becomes more significant than ever. Further background: GreenStar's GreenFuture
Multinational Ownership of Organic Foods
Shopping is Voting

FAIR TRADE CORNELL pressures Cornell to provide only coffee grown & sold w/out worker exploitation. Need help w/petition drive. [email protected] Jessica Brown

TACO BELL WEEK OF ACTION. Rally at Taco Bell Thursday 2/27, 3pm [email protected]

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ITHACA WAR & PEACE REPORT

HUNDREDS OF ITHACANS demonstrated 2/15 against an Iraq attack, both locally & in New York City. Many of the NYC Ithacans helped surround horse police & take over Second Avenue, when police tried to block their access to the rally. Before the next march, study of the NYPD crowd control manual is needed.
---PHOTOS FROM 82 CITIES PROTESTING WAR 2/15
---LUMINARY NEWS TV: Ithacans in NYC & locally 2/15: Channel 13 TV 2/28 5pm
---BLOCKED BY NYPD COPS? Report to [email protected]

"NO WAR ON IRAQ"YARD SIGNS Available at Autumn Leaves Used Books, Greenstar, Gimme Coffee (State St., Cayuga St. & T-Burg). $3.00 each, HOURS accepted. Help sought for door-to-door canvassing to distribute them: 256-9733.

WHEN/IF THE ATTACK BEGINS, there are several effective responses.
* We do not have federal buildings here, but Cornell weapons research & ROTC are at hand.
* Calculating your federal tax and sending a check for $20 less than due diverts IRS staff time & slows tax collection. National War Tax Resistance Campaign
* Spending your vacation dollars in cities (like Ithaca) which have passed resolutions against war citiesforpeace.org sends a powerful economic message (there are millions of us).
* Likewise shopping locally, buying local goods rather than enriching corporations which profit by war
* Support the troops! Bring them home!
* Cornell student strike March 5 & nyspc.net/home.html
* National student strike
* Emergency Convergence on White House 3/15 noon
---"When/if the attack begins, gather at Ithaca Commons 5pm that day or 9am the next."

"BUSH IS A NAZI" & BUSH=WAR FOR OIL" is the handwriting on the wall, about town, in big letters. This has been called vandalism, but since Vandals destroyed Western civilization c.400AD, this graffiti warns of impending vandalism. Rather than erase it, we could convert the space to Democracy Wall, inviting more expression & color.

PEACE FEAST OF SONG 3/7, 9pm See Spot Community Art Space, 108 The Commons. Jamtima & Akashic Wind. "Celebrate peace & better world." Sliding scale, HOURS accepted.

THE ITHACA UPROAR newspaper, by the Tompkins County Network for Peace & Justice, features "how to get involved" local contact list, conscientious objection to military draft, the Bush/Saddam Plan, civil liberties erased by Bush/Congress, and lots more. Peace Network mtg 2/25 6pm Autumn Leaves Books.

VIRTUAL MARCH ON WASHINGTON: "With your help, on 2/26, every Senate office will receive a call EVERY MINUTE from a constituent, as they receive asimulataneous crush of faxes & email." Sign up for slot:

ITHACA PEACE LISTSERVES (corrected):
[email protected] &
[email protected]

---Ithacan Grace Ritter goes to Columbia with WITNESS FOR PEACE, which monitors human rights abuses. Seeks donations: c/o Ithaca Catholic Worker, 122 Cleveland Ave, Ithaca 14850
---Ithacan Mary Loehr goes to Palestine w/Christian Peacemakers. Listserve for Mary's news updates: [email protected] 256-9733

CURB YOUR CAR WEEK mtg 2/28, 11:30-1:00pm, Old Jail, 123 E. Court. 1st fl. [email protected]

LEARN ANY LANGUAGE FREE: Cornell's Language Expansion Program pairs those who want to learn one anothers' language :[email protected]

"ELJUNG1" wins gift certificate to Ithaca Fine Chocolates. Reply w/mailing address by 3/15 to claim.
"NJOHNSON" wins gift certificate to ABC Cafe. Reply w/mailing address by 3/15 to claim.
"NKJ6" wins gift certificate to Cafe Strand. Reply w/mailing address by 3/15 to claim.

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ITHACA BUSINESS NEWS

"COMPASS II " EMPLOYER SURVEY shows that the vast majority of Tompkins County employers are small businesses: 85% have 19 or fewer employees, 62% employ only 1 to 4 people. Despite the small size of employers, they're donating time, space, & labor to the community:"
* 61% of respondents allow time off for volunteer work
* 32% make meeting space available to community groups
* 38% make employees w/ specific skills available to help community groups
* 34% reach out to purchase goods & services from enterprises in lower income areas
* 34% reach out to hire people from distressed neighborhoods.
---"Preliminary data from the service provider survey:
* 27% of respondents make materials & equipment available to community groups
* 54% make meeting space available to community groups
* 62% make employees with specific skills available to help community groups
* 25% reach out to purchase goods & services from enterprises in lower income areas
* 48% reach out to hire people from distressed neighborhoods."
---Next: HOUSEHOLD SURVEY: "A random sample of Tompkins County households are being called asking them their perception of problems facing the County." Nancy Burston

JOBS AT CORNELL: updated every Wednesday 3pm.

LIVING WAGE COALITION HAS 36 MEMBER ORGANIZATIONS: B.A.C. Local 8NY, Catholic Charities of Tompkins County, Center for Religion, Ethics Social Policy (CRESP), Citizens Planning Alliance, Cornell Association of Student Employees/UAW, Cornell Organization for Labor Action (COLA), Drop-In ChildrenØùs Center, Ithaca Catholic Worker, Ithaca Circle of Recovery, Ithaca Coalition for Global Justice (Sharks), Ithaca Democratic Socialists of America, Ithaca Friends Meeting (Quakers), Ithaca Health Fund, Ithaca Hours, Ithaca ParaprofessionalØùs Association (NEA), Ithaca Unitarian Universalist Service Comm., Jesus Only Apostolic Church of God, Justice for All, Kol Haverim: Finger Lakes Community for Humanistic Judaism, Laborer's Union, Local 589, Latino Civic Association, Machinists'(IAM) Local 1607, Midstate Centeral Labor Council, National Organization for Women, Tompkins County Chapter, Painters District Council #4, Planned Parenthood of Tompkins County, Service Employees Inter. Union (SEIU)1199Upstate, Service Employees Inter. Union (SEIU) 200United, Task Force for Battered Women/Child Sexual Abuse Project, Teamsters Local 317, Tompkins County Democratic Party, Tompkins County Human Rights Commission, Tompkins County Green Party, UAW Local 2300, Working Families Party, Young Democratic Socialists (Ithaca College)

"Study Finds Pay Gap at Wal-Mart"

"HOW TO BE A HAPPIER BOARD MEMBER" workshop Eric Lerner

FREE TAX RETURN PREPARATION at ALTERNATIVES FEDERAL CREDIT UNION Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) & the Child Tax Credit for families earning $2,000-$32,000/yr. Eligible families get free help from Volunteers in Tax Assistance, at AFCU through April 15. M-F Noon-6pm, Sat 10-1. [email protected] to schedule appointment.

"ROSIEDEVIL" wins gift certificate to Sparrow's Wines. Reply w/mailing address by 3/15 to claim.
"FILKAGE" wins gift certificate to Toko Imports. Reply w/mailing address by 3/15 to claim.
"REF2" wins gift certificate to 10,000 Villages. Reply w/mailing address by 3/15 to claim.

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STUDENT RE-USE PROJECT "gearing up again for our big spring collection/sale of items thrown out by departing Collegetown students. We need help organizing for this year's event. In particular we are in desperate need of a storage site (rent or donation). All invited to planning meetings." Herb Susmann or Danny Leifer

CLOWN COLLEGE: 220-hour course 539-6121

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AMAZING ITHACA HISTORY

* February 23, 1880: 200 Cornell students pack a performance of the Renz Female Minstrel Troupe at Wilgus Opera Hall. They howl, hoot, smack their lips, cause the show to close. Afterwards a riot breaks out between students & town youths, many are injured.
* February 24, 1857: PIONEER FESTIVAL, to which were invited veterans of the Revolutionary War, War of 1812, & all early settlers of the southern counties of NYS.
* February 25, 1902: Chamber of Commerce banquet keynote speaker is Harry Spillman on "True Aristocracy." We all want power, he said, & during depressions businessmen must "reach out their tentacles" & extend their power in the community."
* February 26, 1956: Gusts of wind up to 75mph tear through town, taking a storm window from 104 Pearl St. & drop it UNBROKEN 40' from home.
* February 27, 1882: TEN-MILE WALTZ danced by Prof. Leo in 3 hours, 10 minutes before large crowd. He changes partners 67 times.
* February 28, 1911: Harriet House bakes a LEMON PIE from lemons grown on a tree at her Humbolt St. home.

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YOUR LETTERS

"I moved to Ithaca this past fall to start law school. I'm a big fan of electoral reform and I'd like to start a group here to campaign for using Instant Runoff Voting to elect the mayor of Ithaca. Are there any other Ithacans who would be willing to get involved?" --Jeffrey O'Neill
---[REPLY] Great way to revive elections. See www.fairvote.org/irv for background.
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"Thanks for making the free classifieds possible -- what a service! -- not to mention the Community News." -- Mary Kirkpatrick
-------- "Please subscribe my daughter to the News. She graduated last June from ACS, currently an exchange student in Hermosillo, Mexico. She would love to receive this. " --Marion
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"What's up withthe scheduled appearance of WalMart behind Wegman's? Everyone was totally focused on SW park, & that got sort of semi-defeated, but then lo & behold WM's showing up anyway, just elsewhere. I haven't been able to find any literature on what exactly happened-- that's a mystery to me. Also mysterious was the lack of protest-- I read that only 3 peopleshowed up at the CC meeting to discuss the announcement WM was coming. So,why so little outcry this time around? And last, can anything be done at this stage to reverse this?" --Beth
---[REPLY] We worked for three years 92-95 to successfully repel Wal-Mart. 197 people spoke against WM at public hearings, 9 in favor. We had leverage with the mayor at that time, Ben Nichols. When it came around again the Mayor and Council were pro-chain ideologues who were not dissuaded by similar public outcry, referring to a silent majority they believed favored more chain shopping locally.
---The Citizen's Planning Alliance compromised to look 'reasonable' after Cohen's re-election in 1999-- they said some big boxes-- tidier ones-- would be acceptable. Others of us do not want any big box stores.
---Lawsuits filed by individuals against City Hall's roughshod process were routinely overruled by Republican judges Relihan and Mulvey. Ecotage and drumming and chanting at the Widewaters site were tried by some.
---At this stage, the project can be hoped to collapse of its own weight-- City Hall has not got permission from railroad to build an essential overpass needed to move traffic N-S through the site, nor will DOT soon widen the Rte 13 bridge over Six Mile Creek, another part of the essential "Six Point Plan." Carousel Mall will be USA's largest shopping center, drawing from Ithaca. Otherwise, I've started a campaign to encourage people not to shop at "The Dump." See my review of the SW Plan And Joe Wetmore's book on Alan Cohen's Administration, reviewed in latest Bookpress by Carrie Laben.
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"Here's a good guide to sustainable future: www.earthcharter.org for next community news." --"L.M. Baechtle
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"My friend forwarded the recent newsletter to me. He suggested I contact you, as I am wondering if you would please put me on your email list so I could keep up on the grass roots local news. My daughter is a freshman at Cornell, & I've spent some time in the area too. I'm from Ann Arbor, & find Ithaca to be a lot like my town, only from about 30 years ago. I like it." --Myron
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"LARRY" wins gift certificate to White Lotus. Reply w/mailing address by 3/15 to claim.
"LJL24" wins gift certificate to Gimme! Coffee. Reply w/mailing address by 3/15 to claim.
"BLB28" wins gift certificate to Cinemapolis/FCP. Reply w/mailing address by 3/15 to claim.

I have wondered what makes NYSEG Solutions so cheap. Thanks to Dan Klein's letter in the last ICN, the answer is clear. Klein directs us to tcaction.org/energy/EmissionsChart.html & tcaction.org/energy/SupplierChart.html which show the suppliers in our area, where they get their power, & how dirty it is. NYSEG Solutions is cheaper (if you managed to get into their fixed-rate program before they closed it 12/19), but their power is OVER TWICE AS DIRTY as NYSEG for NOx and SOx emissions, & about 1.6 times as bad for CO2. They are roughly 1.5-1.7 times dirtier than the state average, whereas NYSEG is substantially cleaner than the average on all three measures.
---"The page regarding Klein's Co-opPlus energy group raises some questions as well. How can they claim to be for the environment when they use NYSEG Solutions, the much dirtier supplier? Klein's letter states that there is no commitment to stay with Co-opPlus, but the form he direct us to fill out in order to receive more information says, 'I agree to become a member of Co-opPlus Energy Cooperative of Central New York, Inc. I agree to choose the energy supplier selected by the Board of Directors, for a period of two years, so that we, collectively, may aggregate our buying power to encourage the production of renewable energy.' That sounds very much like a binding commitment to me. Also, if this is a co-op, why are the decisions made by a board of directors & not by a vote of the membership? Real co-ops, controlled by their memberships, are definitely the way to go. I hope these issues are just oversights in the startup process, & not an indication of the future direction of this group." --J.H.
---[REPLY BY CO-OP PLUS] "Great comments, these are the issues that our board has been wrestling with. I made the emissions chart myself, because we wanted to get an idea of which suppliers were cleanest. Much to our chagrin, we found that there was no difference between the "competitive suppliers"-- they were all buying from the ISO power pool. NYSEG'S emissions are lower, but most of that is due to a greater reliance on nuclear power. There are no good choices now, but we had to start somewhere. The only present advantage we could offer our members was a small discount from NYSEG Solutions. I personally have had my power turned off by NYSEG, so I was eager to find another supplier, albeit a corporate sister. We now have 165 members & growing quickly. We had to start somewhere. In the future we hope to parlay this market clout into some real energy alternatives for our members, but for now we have to take baby steps. You're welcome to join us. Members may leave at any time."
--Kenny Christianson
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"Again thanks. I am an avid reader of your newsletter." --Martijna Briggs
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[re: Bread & Puppet Theater performance in Ithaca 3/28/02] "Our puppet shows are as good as they are bad & guaranteed no guaranteed quality products, but sculptured jazz improvisations based on firm thought & choreography structures.
---"We are usually six, the show needs 20. In a short afternoon we meet local community & work & sing with them till they are the show. Our theater gestures are people's own gestures & not imported from any gesture schools. Our singing is a) four-part harmonies from the Sacred Harp book, b) chirping, yelling & screaming - all short-term learnables. Our message is insurrection, wake up, rise up fight the intolerable military-capitalistic system that devours men & apes, women & pine forests, turnips & waterfalls alike. (Naturally in the present state of democracy where the word insurrection itself is illegal, we are talking about highly non-lethal paper mache insurrection).
---"The funeral marches for the rotten ideas which we bury are total unholy pomp, meant to strike the heart of the observer with the fear of hell fire. Our weakness is that we eat, & even though we build our puppets from junk, our bus & biological engines eat money. Therefore, we put a hat out when we play at home, & elsewhere we charge & if possible make a contract with the host.
---"In the contract we state what the show is (we forget to say that it's no classical ballet). If the host comes after the show & says: I won't pay you, I didn't like your show & Professor Theater & his friend also didn't like it & the show was dilettantic & not professional because it was just our whoever-wants-to-do-it volunteers, & by the way, a professional show is a whole evening long, so you can make your dinner arrangements accordingly & not have a nice evening interrupted by some dubious puppet mess.
---"Now, if that happens, what are we to do? Eat our endowments, our art council grants, our industrial stipends & other financial cushions which we don't have? Or shall we go somewhere else & help the garbage rise up against the culture that produces it & bluff somebody else into paying us? The moral of the story is: he who doesn't want to pay, shouldn't sign a contract & cheat us into traveling afar." --Peter Schumann, Artistic Director
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"Please add me to the most excellent news source for I-town-- thanks for keepin' us all connected- I'll enjoy reading the stuff while away for a semester in Scotland- blessings." --Steve G.

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ITHACA NEIGHBORHOOD HOUSING SERVICES MINI-REPAIR PROGRAM: Roof leak or faucet drip? Need new handrail or lock installed? Are you 62+ years on limited income? Single parent or disabled on limited income? City of Ithaca resident? Tom Gudeman 277-4500

"HOW WELL IS YOUR WATER?" test your well water for contamination & learn to protect wells. Sponsored by Cayuga Lake Watershed Network & Tompkins County Dept of Health.
* Dryden: 3/6, Dryden Village Hall, 16 South St, 7-9pm.
*Groton: 3/13, Groton Town Hall, 101 Conger Boulevard, 7-9pm.

"CARRIE_WHO" wins gift certificate to Surya Incense. Reply w/mailing address by 3/15 to claim.
"JERIGEE" wins gift certificate to Dinosaur Dry Goods. Reply w/mailing address by 3/15 to claim.
"SKY4" wins gift certificate to The Yoga Corner. Reply w/mailing address by 3/15 to claim.
"HP33" wins gift certificate to The Bath Bar. Reply w/mailing address by 3/15 to claim.

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COMMUNITY SURVEY ABOUT CARING FOR OLDER ADULTS: People providing any level of unpaid care to an adult 60+ please complete on-line survey Results will identify needs & enhance community services. Betty Falcao

---SOUND AND BODY 3/11, 7-8:30pm "An inspiring night of sound exploration, movement and community where we'll explore the energizing effects of sounding and its potential to free up tension." Free workshop at Finger Lakes School of Massage 1251 Trumansburg Rd. RSVP 272-9024 or [email protected]
---ACUPRESSURE for beginners: powerful self-healing tool: 3/1 (snow date 3/8) 10am-5pm. Register w/ Cat Berry 256-7070. $50-$100 sliding scale. HOURS accepted
---"QIGONG: Mastering Your Emotions" 3/2 10am-6pm $100, HOURS accepted.
---ITHACA FENG SHUI NEWSLETTER http://www.FengShuiIthaca.com

ITHACA HEALTH FUND's 575 members now are co-owners of $156,000 bank account. This is the world's most transparent health financing system, w/meeting minutes & payments & payment denials detailed on web:

DANCE TEACHER TRAINING: Ballroom Dance, Latin Dance, Swing-Lindy, more. April, June, August. Roger Christian 277 - 0731

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Thanks to Homer & Jane at Lightlink for reliable internet services.

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EDITOR: [email protected]

ITHACA COMMUNITY NEWS HOME PAGE

ITHACA COMMUNITY NEWS
February #2 2003

LABOR, ARTS, EVENTS, ACTIVISM, LOCAL HISTORY, YOUR LETTERS, FUN STUFF!

[This is the SECOND OF TWO MESSAGES MONTHLY sent to 7,067 Ithaca area residents]

SEVENTEEN READERS OF THIS ISSUE HAVE WON GIFT CERTIFICATES with Ithaca Bakery ($5), Viva Taqueria ($5), Cinemapolis/Fall Creek Pictures (2 tickets), Ithaca Fine Chocolates (4-pack), Gimme! Coffee (1# coffee), Oasis Grocery ($5), ($6), Sparrow's Wines ($10), Ten Thousand Villages ($10), ABC Cafe ($10), Cafe Strand ($5), Acorn Designs ($7.50), Toko Imports ($5), Dinosaur Drygoods ($10), The Bath Bar ($10) White Lotus Home ($10), Surya Incense (pkg), The Yoga Corner (free class). WINNING EMAILS (randomly selected by computer) ARE NOTED BELOW. Winners reply sending their mailing address.

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THE DOMINION OF ITHACA-- 123 local websites with "Ithaca" in domain name.
accessithaca.com real estate
bbithaca.com bed & breakfasts
Chapter House tavern/restaurant
christchapelithaca.org church
cityofithaca.org City Hall
csma-ithaca.org Community School of Music & Arts
dance-ithaca.org swing dance events
dentistithaca.com Dr. Ormsby
downtownithaca.com Downtown Ithaca Partnership
everythingithaca.com directory
ecovillage.ithaca.ny.us co-housing
fccithaca.org 1st Congregational Church
firstassembly-ithaca.org First Assembly of God Church
firstpresithaca.org 1st Presbyterian Church
historicithaca.com Historic Ithaca
www.holidayinnithaca.com
hotithaca.com February events
innithaca.com tourist lodging
Ithaca 360 virtual tours of Ithaca
ithaca.coop GreenStar Food Co-op
ithaca.edu Ithaca College
ithaca.edu/ithacan Ithaca College student newspaper
ithaca.indymedia.org readers write the news
ithaca.logosbookstores.com
ithaca.ny.us original IthacaNet URL
ithacaagway.com
ithaca-airport.com
ithaca-apartments-belleayre-dewitt.com 700 Stewart Ave.
ithaca-apartments.com landlords
ithacabakery.com
ithacaballet.org
ithacabeer.com
ithacabirthgroup.org
ithacacalendarclock.com new/heritage clocks 1865-present
ithacaclassifieds.com FREE INSTANT CLASSIFIEDS: buy, sell, request, swap: goods, jobs, homes
ithacacommonground.com nightclub & concerts
ithacacommunitychorus.clarityconnect.com singing group
ithacacommunityorchestra.org
ithacaconcertband.org
ithacacounselor.com Glenna Dunaway, CSW-R
ithacadavinci.org professional job search
ithacadeltagamma.com sorority
ithacadentists.com Drs. Fey & Regnier
Ithaca Directory Ithaca links
ithacadoulas.com assistance for new mothers
ithacaestaterealty.com
ithacaevents.com fun stuff
ithacaeye.com ophthalmology
ithacafestival.org annual community festival
ithacafire.org fire department
ithacafilms.com "Green Lights" film set in Ithaca
ithacafinechocolates.com organic & worker-friendly
ithacaflowers.com flower shop
ithacagiftshop.com" Ithaca gifts
ithacagun.com gun manufacturer
ithacaglass.com glasscrafters
ithacahealth.org member-owned nonprofit health financing system: $100/year!
ithacahemp.com hemp goods
ithacahockey.com
ithacahome.com realty
ithacahours.com is founder's local currency site
ithacahours.org is HOUR board's site.
ithacajournal.com daily Gannett capitalist paper
ithacalacrosse.com
ithacamaps.org maps & demographics
ithacamarket.org farmer's market with 110 vendors
ithacamart.com free & paid online classifieds
ithacamed.com group medical practice
ithacameetings.com convention spaces
ithacamensfest.org Mens' Festival
ithacamontessori.org private school
ithacamusic.org groups & gigs
ithacamusicacademy.org music instrument lessons
ITHACANET.ORG many more local sites
ITHACANEWS.ORG the voice of grassroots ithaca! keyword searchable archive
ithacanhs.org Neighborhood Housing Services
ithacaorthopaedics.com Drs. Anderson, Greene, Roach
ithacapages.com yellow/white pages
ithacaparents.org drug-free tips
ithacaperipherals.com inkjet, thermal & impact printers
ithacaportal.com more local links
ithacapregnancy.com alternatives to abortion
Ithacapress.com vanity publisher
ithacaproduce.com wholesale food
ithacaradio.org radical radio program WEOS, Mondays 6:30pm
ithaca-real-estate.com realtor
ithacarealtors.com
ithaca-rent.com realtor
ithacarenting.com realty
ithacarotary.org civic service organization
ithacasingles.org mixers
ithacasoccer.com soccer league
ithacasquash.com squash teams
ithacastation.com restaurant
ithacastring.com custom instrument building
ithaca-student-apts.com landlord
ithacasucks.blogspot.com "humor & verbal anarchy"
ithacaswimming.org aquatics club
fundraiser for food pantries
ithacataxi.biz taxi service
ithacatileandhardwood.com
ithacatimes.com weekly hip/conservative paper
ithacavineyard.org Vineyard Church of Ithaca
ithacavirtualtours.com real estate
ithacawaldorf.com Waldorf School
Ithaca Integrated Community Wellness Center
ithacayc.com Ithaca Yacht Club
ithacayouthbureau.org
ithacayouthockey.com
ithacaymca.com YMCA
networkwellnessithaca.com Pierre Gremaud chiropractor
obgyn-ithaca.com gynecologists
Radio Free Ithaca streaming local music
realithaca.com real estate links
statetheatreofithaca.com
stjohnsithaca.org St. John's Episcopal church
stpaulsithaca.org St. Paul's Methodist Church
town.ithaca.ny.us Town of Ithaca government
unitarian.ithaca.ny.us Unitarian Universalist Church
villageatithaca.org school advocacy for minority youth
visitithaca.com general tourist intro to community
westhavenfarm.ithaca.ny.us organic farm at EcoVillage
willowithaca.com restaurant
---GOT MORE? send to [email protected] This list will be updated.

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MEET THE POLICE: "THERE IS NO US AND THEM. IT'S ALL US."
"You are invited to a unique four hour free workshop designed to build mutually beneficial relationships between local residents & Ithaca Police officers & staff. Includes activities promoting healthy communication skills, conflict resolution skills & establishing common ground. It is also a good opportunity to connect w/ each other in a meaningful & respectful way as fellow human beings. These community events are organized by local residents & are open to everyone 16 yrs+. Ilonka 273-1779 to register for one of these: 3/14, 3-7pm * 3/17, 11-3pm * 3/21, 3-7pm * 3/22, 11-3pm * 3/28, 3-7pm * 3/31, 5-9pm * 4/4, 3-7pm. Refreshments provided.

TOMPKINS COUNTY fights attacks upon civil liberties: 3/4 at 5:30pm Autumn Leaves. list: [email protected]

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ITHACA FUN

FISK JUBILEE SINGERS: 3/29 at 8:00pm, Statler Auditorium, Cornell. "The a cappella Singers, formed in 1871, have preserved, presented, & interpreted the Negro spirituals created during the slavery era to audiences worldwide ever since." Free tickets at Convention & Visitors Bureau, East Shore Dr.
---3/28, at 4:30pm, Goldwin Smith Hall, talk by Andrew Ward, author of "Dark Midnight When I Rise: The Story of the Jubilee Singers. Nick Salvatore 255-2240
---BLACK HISTORY MONTH: list of local events

UTAH PHILLIPS folk artist, singer, storyteller, labor organizer, hobo, historian, philosopher. 3/1, 8pm, Kulp Auditorium, IHS. Folk Song Club Ticket $15 (1/2 HR accepted) at Ithaca Guitar Works, Borealis Books, Small World Music.

ITHACA CONCERT BAND Dances, Marches, Spirituals 3/2 at 4:00pm Kulp Auditorium, IHS. Free.

GALLERY NIGHT: Eleven downtown art galleries hold openings 3/7, 5:00-8:00pm. Start at CSMA, 330 E. State, get "Art Port" & map.

WOMEN'S WORKS 2003: concert of works by female composers, poets, and more! 3/2, 4pm, First Unitarian Church (Buffalo & Aurora). Tickets at the door; 100% HOURs accepted. 844-4039

PATTI WITTEN & Prairie Doll w/ Urban Horse Thieves 3/8 4-7pm at Common Ground. All ages, smoke-free, $5 cover, HOURS accepted

SISTER 2 SISTER: AN EVENT FOR GIRLS 3/29 half day for middle schoolers planned by high schoolers. "Geared to knowing yourself better & thinking about the future." Mary

TEENS WRITE! Creative Writing Workshop for Young Writers, ages 12-18, led by Irene Zahava. Meeting at the Tompkins County Public Library in the Thayer/Howell Programming Room. Thursdays, 4-5pm, March & April. Attend one, some, or all. Free. No registration required. [email protected]

* POETRY SLAM 3/7 at Juna's Cafe 8pm
* "LOOKING FOR POETRY OF ALL KINDS" new poetry journal [email protected] deadline 2/24. NYS ARTS GRANTS $500-$1,000 deadline 3/15: audio, film, video, computer: must be NYS non-student.

CAYUGA NATURE PHOTOGRAPHERS show thru March, Unitarian Church, reception 3/4, 7:30-9pm.

SEE SPOT COMMUNITY ART SPACE 108 The Commons. 277-7560
* 2/27 Wonder Monday 9-11pm. Independent soft rock. $3.
* 2/28 Unskilled Labor, 8-10:30pm. Coffehouse favorites, $3.
* 3/1 The Edgeplay Tour, 9-11pm. Larry Slack, singer, guitarist, adventurist. $4.
* 3/7 Gallery Night Opening Reception 5-8 p.m. Fiber art w/ Celibacy Pants, Duct tape fashions, interactive installation w/ puppets, mirrors, more! 277-7560.

ARLO GUTHRIE at State Theater 3/8, 8:00 pm. Reserved tickets from Ticket Center at Clinton House; GreenStar; at 273-4497 or 1-800-28-ITHACA & www.ithacaevents.com. 1/2 HOUR/ticket accepted. With Arlo are son Abe, daughter Sarah Lee Guthrie & son-in-law Johnny.

SWIMMING IN THE SHALLOWS comedy at The Kitchen Theatre. Performances to 3/15, Thursday to Saturday 8:00pm & Sundays 4:00pm. Tickets $14.50 - $16.00 at Ticket Center in Clinton House, Willard Straight Hall, Dillingham Box Office at IC, or via 273-4497. Group rates: 272-0403. 25% HOURS accepted. [email protected]

SCIENCENTER ELEBRATES GRAND OPENING OF NEW ADDITION 2/27-3/8.
Ribbon Cutting Ceremony, 2/28, 10:30am.
Member Appreciation Night, 2/28, 6:30-8pm. Hands-on activities. Treats for members only.
Community Day, 3/1, 10am-5pm. Free admission to everyone. Hands-on activities & demonstrations.
Volunteer Appreciation Day, 3/2, noon-5pm. free to all Sciencenter volunteers.
Early Childhood Week, 3/4-3/7, 10am-5pm. Children 4 & under free. (Groups w/ >5 make reservations.)
Senior Day, 3/4, 10am-5pm. Kids >65 free.
Homeschoolers Day, 3/5, 10am-5pm. free for homeschoolers & families.

ISRAELI DANCE Thursdays 8-10pm. free, all welcome. Temple Beth El, Court/Tioga. 257-6418

Jody Kessler, singer/songwriter, Autumn Leaves Cafe, 2/28, 6:30-8:30pm: $3-5 donation, HOURS accepted. Becca Harber's nature art, Autumn Leaves Cafe during March. Original poetry & songs 3/10, 6:45-8pm, free

CABLE TV CHANNEL 13 SCHEDULE

"LAJ57" wins gift certificate to Viva Taqueria. Reply w/mailing address by 3/15 to claim.
"ZUCY63" wins gift certificate to Ithaca Bakery. Reply w/mailing address by 3/15 to claim.
"JFENDRICKJAYNES" wins gift certificate to Oasis. Reply w/mailing address by 3/15 to claim.

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ITHACA FOOD NEWS

ALL-YOU-CAN-EAT SPAGHETTI DINNER 2/28, 5-7pm, St. John's Episcopal Church. Live music: $6/adult, $4/child. HOURS accepted. "DAP Program provides advocacy, case management, mentoring to Tompkins Co. youth at risk for placement out of home (detention, foster care, group homes). Recent county budget cuts socked us this year making our annual benefit more important than ever." 272-0900

OASIS NATURAL GROCERY is our locally-owned unionized (UAW2300) anti-war neighborhood health food store. They'd appreciate your business especially while the economy's slow. One HOUR accepted Sundays.

ABC Cafe now has a website which contain menus of live music and food.

GREENSTAR COUNCIL CANDIDATES SOUGHT: get application from GreenStar's front desk, submit by 3/1. There are six Council seats available of 15 total. This is a big opportunity to help GreenStar fulfill its mission of providing good food cheap, reinforcing local agriculture, reducing our dependence on environmentally destructive packaging & products, reducing our dependence on multinational corporations, relying on member labor, paying a livable wage, etc. Council members get 17.5% superworker discount. With democracy challenged nationally, our local co-op democracy becomes more significant than ever. Further background: GreenStar's GreenFuture
Multinational Ownership of Organic Foods
Shopping is Voting

FAIR TRADE CORNELL pressures Cornell to provide only coffee grown & sold w/out worker exploitation. Need help w/petition drive. [email protected] Jessica Brown

TACO BELL WEEK OF ACTION. Rally at Taco Bell Thursday 2/27, 3pm [email protected]

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ITHACA WAR & PEACE REPORT

HUNDREDS OF ITHACANS demonstrated 2/15 against an Iraq attack, both locally & in New York City. Many of the NYC Ithacans helped surround horse police & take over Second Avenue, when police tried to block their access to the rally. Before the next march, study of the NYPD crowd control manual is needed.
---PHOTOS FROM 82 CITIES PROTESTING WAR 2/15
---LUMINARY NEWS TV: Ithacans in NYC & locally 2/15: Channel 13 TV 2/28 5pm
---BLOCKED BY NYPD COPS? Report to [email protected]

"NO WAR ON IRAQ"YARD SIGNS Available at Autumn Leaves Used Books, Greenstar, Gimme Coffee (State St., Cayuga St. & T-Burg). $3.00 each, HOURS accepted. Help sought for door-to-door canvassing to distribute them: 256-9733.

WHEN/IF THE ATTACK BEGINS, there are several effective responses.
* We do not have federal buildings here, but Cornell weapons research & ROTC are at hand.
* Calculating your federal tax and sending a check for $20 less than due diverts IRS staff time & slows tax collection. National War Tax Resistance Campaign
* Spending your vacation dollars in cities (like Ithaca) which have passed resolutions against war citiesforpeace.org sends a powerful economic message (there are millions of us).
* Likewise shopping locally, buying local goods rather than enriching corporations which profit by war
* Support the troops! Bring them home!
* Cornell student strike March 5 & nyspc.net/home.html
* National student strike
* Emergency Convergence on White House 3/15 noon
---"When/if the attack begins, gather at Ithaca Commons 5pm that day or 9am the next."

"BUSH IS A NAZI" & BUSH=WAR FOR OIL" is the handwriting on the wall, about town, in big letters. This has been called vandalism, but since Vandals destroyed Western civilization c.400AD, this graffiti warns of impending vandalism. Rather than erase it, we could convert the space to Democracy Wall, inviting more expression & color.

PEACE FEAST OF SONG 3/7, 9pm See Spot Community Art Space, 108 The Commons. Jamtima & Akashic Wind. "Celebrate peace & better world." Sliding scale, HOURS accepted.

THE ITHACA UPROAR newspaper, by the Tompkins County Network for Peace & Justice, features "how to get involved" local contact list, conscientious objection to military draft, the Bush/Saddam Plan, civil liberties erased by Bush/Congress, and lots more. Peace Network mtg 2/25 6pm Autumn Leaves Books.

VIRTUAL MARCH ON WASHINGTON: "With your help, on 2/26, every Senate office will receive a call EVERY MINUTE from a constituent, as they receive asimulataneous crush of faxes & email." Sign up for slot:

ITHACA PEACE LISTSERVES (corrected):
[email protected] &
[email protected]

---Ithacan Grace Ritter goes to Columbia with WITNESS FOR PEACE, which monitors human rights abuses. Seeks donations: c/o Ithaca Catholic Worker, 122 Cleveland Ave, Ithaca 14850
---Ithacan Mary Loehr goes to Palestine w/Christian Peacemakers. Listserve for Mary's news updates: [email protected] 256-9733

CURB YOUR CAR WEEK mtg 2/28, 11:30-1:00pm, Old Jail, 123 E. Court. 1st fl. [email protected]

LEARN ANY LANGUAGE FREE: Cornell's Language Expansion Program pairs those who want to learn one anothers' language :[email protected]

"ELJUNG1" wins gift certificate to Ithaca Fine Chocolates. Reply w/mailing address by 3/15 to claim.
"NJOHNSON" wins gift certificate to ABC Cafe. Reply w/mailing address by 3/15 to claim.
"NKJ6" wins gift certificate to Cafe Strand. Reply w/mailing address by 3/15 to claim.

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ITHACA BUSINESS NEWS

"COMPASS II " EMPLOYER SURVEY shows that the vast majority of Tompkins County employers are small businesses: 85% have 19 or fewer employees, 62% employ only 1 to 4 people. Despite the small size of employers, they're donating time, space, & labor to the community:"
* 61% of respondents allow time off for volunteer work
* 32% make meeting space available to community groups
* 38% make employees w/ specific skills available to help community groups
* 34% reach out to purchase goods & services from enterprises in lower income areas
* 34% reach out to hire people from distressed neighborhoods.
---"Preliminary data from the service provider survey:
* 27% of respondents make materials & equipment available to community groups
* 54% make meeting space available to community groups
* 62% make employees with specific skills available to help community groups
* 25% reach out to purchase goods & services from enterprises in lower income areas
* 48% reach out to hire people from distressed neighborhoods."
---Next: HOUSEHOLD SURVEY: "A random sample of Tompkins County households are being called asking them their perception of problems facing the County." Nancy Burston

JOBS AT CORNELL: updated every Wednesday 3pm.

LIVING WAGE COALITION HAS 36 MEMBER ORGANIZATIONS: B.A.C. Local 8NY, Catholic Charities of Tompkins County, Center for Religion, Ethics Social Policy (CRESP), Citizens Planning Alliance, Cornell Association of Student Employees/UAW, Cornell Organization for Labor Action (COLA), Drop-In ChildrenØùs Center, Ithaca Catholic Worker, Ithaca Circle of Recovery, Ithaca Coalition for Global Justice (Sharks), Ithaca Democratic Socialists of America, Ithaca Friends Meeting (Quakers), Ithaca Health Fund, Ithaca Hours, Ithaca ParaprofessionalØùs Association (NEA), Ithaca Unitarian Universalist Service Comm., Jesus Only Apostolic Church of God, Justice for All, Kol Haverim: Finger Lakes Community for Humanistic Judaism, Laborer's Union, Local 589, Latino Civic Association, Machinists'(IAM) Local 1607, Midstate Centeral Labor Council, National Organization for Women, Tompkins County Chapter, Painters District Council #4, Planned Parenthood of Tompkins County, Service Employees Inter. Union (SEIU)1199Upstate, Service Employees Inter. Union (SEIU) 200United, Task Force for Battered Women/Child Sexual Abuse Project, Teamsters Local 317, Tompkins County Democratic Party, Tompkins County Human Rights Commission, Tompkins County Green Party, UAW Local 2300, Working Families Party, Young Democratic Socialists (Ithaca College)

"Study Finds Pay Gap at Wal-Mart"

"HOW TO BE A HAPPIER BOARD MEMBER" workshop Eric Lerner

FREE TAX RETURN PREPARATION at ALTERNATIVES FEDERAL CREDIT UNION Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) & the Child Tax Credit for families earning $2,000-$32,000/yr. Eligible families get free help from Volunteers in Tax Assistance, at AFCU through April 15. M-F Noon-6pm, Sat 10-1. [email protected] to schedule appointment.

"ROSIEDEVIL" wins gift certificate to Sparrow's Wines. Reply w/mailing address by 3/15 to claim.
"FILKAGE" wins gift certificate to Toko Imports. Reply w/mailing address by 3/15 to claim.
"REF2" wins gift certificate to 10,000 Villages. Reply w/mailing address by 3/15 to claim.

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STUDENT RE-USE PROJECT "gearing up again for our big spring collection/sale of items thrown out by departing Collegetown students. We need help organizing for this year's event. In particular we are in desperate need of a storage site (rent or donation). All invited to planning meetings." Herb Susmann or Danny Leifer

CLOWN COLLEGE: 220-hour course 539-6121

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AMAZING ITHACA HISTORY

* February 23, 1880: 200 Cornell students pack a performance of the Renz Female Minstrel Troupe at Wilgus Opera Hall. They howl, hoot, smack their lips, cause the show to close. Afterwards a riot breaks out between students & town youths, many are injured.
* February 24, 1857: PIONEER FESTIVAL, to which were invited veterans of the Revolutionary War, War of 1812, & all early settlers of the southern counties of NYS.
* February 25, 1902: Chamber of Commerce banquet keynote speaker is Harry Spillman on "True Aristocracy." We all want power, he said, & during depressions businessmen must "reach out their tentacles" & extend their power in the community."
* February 26, 1956: Gusts of wind up to 75mph tear through town, taking a storm window from 104 Pearl St. & drop it UNBROKEN 40' from home.
* February 27, 1882: TEN-MILE WALTZ danced by Prof. Leo in 3 hours, 10 minutes before large crowd. He changes partners 67 times.
* February 28, 1911: Harriet House bakes a LEMON PIE from lemons grown on a tree at her Humbolt St. home.

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YOUR LETTERS

"I moved to Ithaca this past fall to start law school. I'm a big fan of electoral reform and I'd like to start a group here to campaign for using Instant Runoff Voting to elect the mayor of Ithaca. Are there any other Ithacans who would be willing to get involved?" --Jeffrey O'Neill
---[REPLY] Great way to revive elections. See www.fairvote.org/irv for background.
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"Thanks for making the free classifieds possible -- what a service! -- not to mention the Community News." -- Mary Kirkpatrick
-------- "Please subscribe my daughter to the News. She graduated last June from ACS, currently an exchange student in Hermosillo, Mexico. She would love to receive this. " --Marion
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"What's up withthe scheduled appearance of WalMart behind Wegman's? Everyone was totally focused on SW park, & that got sort of semi-defeated, but then lo & behold WM's showing up anyway, just elsewhere. I haven't been able to find any literature on what exactly happened-- that's a mystery to me. Also mysterious was the lack of protest-- I read that only 3 peopleshowed up at the CC meeting to discuss the announcement WM was coming. So,why so little outcry this time around? And last, can anything be done at this stage to reverse this?" --Beth
---[REPLY] We worked for three years 92-95 to successfully repel Wal-Mart. 197 people spoke against WM at public hearings, 9 in favor. We had leverage with the mayor at that time, Ben Nichols. When it came around again the Mayor and Council were pro-chain ideologues who were not dissuaded by similar public outcry, referring to a silent majority they believed favored more chain shopping locally.
---The Citizen's Planning Alliance compromised to look 'reasonable' after Cohen's re-election in 1999-- they said some big boxes-- tidier ones-- would be acceptable. Others of us do not want any big box stores.
---Lawsuits filed by individuals against City Hall's roughshod process were routinely overruled by Republican judges Relihan and Mulvey. Ecotage and drumming and chanting at the Widewaters site were tried by some.
---At this stage, the project can be hoped to collapse of its own weight-- City Hall has not got permission from railroad to build an essential overpass needed to move traffic N-S through the site, nor will DOT soon widen the Rte 13 bridge over Six Mile Creek, another part of the essential "Six Point Plan." Carousel Mall will be USA's largest shopping center, drawing from Ithaca. Otherwise, I've started a campaign to encourage people not to shop at "The Dump." See my review of the SW Plan And Joe Wetmore's book on Alan Cohen's Administration, reviewed in latest Bookpress by Carrie Laben.
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"Here's a good guide to sustainable future: www.earthcharter.org for next community news." --"L.M. Baechtle
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"My friend forwarded the recent newsletter to me. He suggested I contact you, as I am wondering if you would please put me on your email list so I could keep up on the grass roots local news. My daughter is a freshman at Cornell, & I've spent some time in the area too. I'm from Ann Arbor, & find Ithaca to be a lot like my town, only from about 30 years ago. I like it." --Myron
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"LARRY" wins gift certificate to White Lotus. Reply w/mailing address by 3/15 to claim.
"LJL24" wins gift certificate to Gimme! Coffee. Reply w/mailing address by 3/15 to claim.
"BLB28" wins gift certificate to Cinemapolis/FCP. Reply w/mailing address by 3/15 to claim.

I have wondered what makes NYSEG Solutions so cheap. Thanks to Dan Klein's letter in the last ICN, the answer is clear. Klein directs us to tcaction.org/energy/EmissionsChart.html & tcaction.org/energy/SupplierChart.html which show the suppliers in our area, where they get their power, & how dirty it is. NYSEG Solutions is cheaper (if you managed to get into their fixed-rate program before they closed it 12/19), but their power is OVER TWICE AS DIRTY as NYSEG for NOx and SOx emissions, & about 1.6 times as bad for CO2. They are roughly 1.5-1.7 times dirtier than the state average, whereas NYSEG is substantially cleaner than the average on all three measures.
---"The page regarding Klein's Co-opPlus energy group raises some questions as well. How can they claim to be for the environment when they use NYSEG Solutions, the much dirtier supplier? Klein's letter states that there is no commitment to stay with Co-opPlus, but the form he direct us to fill out in order to receive more information says, 'I agree to become a member of Co-opPlus Energy Cooperative of Central New York, Inc. I agree to choose the energy supplier selected by the Board of Directors, for a period of two years, so that we, collectively, may aggregate our buying power to encourage the production of renewable energy.' That sounds very much like a binding commitment to me. Also, if this is a co-op, why are the decisions made by a board of directors & not by a vote of the membership? Real co-ops, controlled by their memberships, are definitely the way to go. I hope these issues are just oversights in the startup process, & not an indication of the future direction of this group." --J.H.
---[REPLY BY CO-OP PLUS] "Great comments, these are the issues that our board has been wrestling with. I made the emissions chart myself, because we wanted to get an idea of which suppliers were cleanest. Much to our chagrin, we found that there was no difference between the "competitive suppliers"-- they were all buying from the ISO power pool. NYSEG'S emissions are lower, but most of that is due to a greater reliance on nuclear power. There are no good choices now, but we had to start somewhere. The only present advantage we could offer our members was a small discount from NYSEG Solutions. I personally have had my power turned off by NYSEG, so I was eager to find another supplier, albeit a corporate sister. We now have 165 members & growing quickly. We had to start somewhere. In the future we hope to parlay this market clout into some real energy alternatives for our members, but for now we have to take baby steps. You're welcome to join us. Members may leave at any time."
--Kenny Christianson
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"Again thanks. I am an avid reader of your newsletter." --Martijna Briggs
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[re: Bread & Puppet Theater performance in Ithaca 3/28/02] "Our puppet shows are as good as they are bad & guaranteed no guaranteed quality products, but sculptured jazz improvisations based on firm thought & choreography structures.
---"We are usually six, the show needs 20. In a short afternoon we meet local community & work & sing with them till they are the show. Our theater gestures are people's own gestures & not imported from any gesture schools. Our singing is a) four-part harmonies from the Sacred Harp book, b) chirping, yelling & screaming - all short-term learnables. Our message is insurrection, wake up, rise up fight the intolerable military-capitalistic system that devours men & apes, women & pine forests, turnips & waterfalls alike. (Naturally in the present state of democracy where the word insurrection itself is illegal, we are talking about highly non-lethal paper mache insurrection).
---"The funeral marches for the rotten ideas which we bury are total unholy pomp, meant to strike the heart of the observer with the fear of hell fire. Our weakness is that we eat, & even though we build our puppets from junk, our bus & biological engines eat money. Therefore, we put a hat out when we play at home, & elsewhere we charge & if possible make a contract with the host.
---"In the contract we state what the show is (we forget to say that it's no classical ballet). If the host comes after the show & says: I won't pay you, I didn't like your show & Professor Theater & his friend also didn't like it & the show was dilettantic & not professional because it was just our whoever-wants-to-do-it volunteers, & by the way, a professional show is a whole evening long, so you can make your dinner arrangements accordingly & not have a nice evening interrupted by some dubious puppet mess.
---"Now, if that happens, what are we to do? Eat our endowments, our art council grants, our industrial stipends & other financial cushions which we don't have? Or shall we go somewhere else & help the garbage rise up against the culture that produces it & bluff somebody else into paying us? The moral of the story is: he who doesn't want to pay, shouldn't sign a contract & cheat us into traveling afar." --Peter Schumann, Artistic Director
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"Please add me to the most excellent news source for I-town-- thanks for keepin' us all connected- I'll enjoy reading the stuff while away for a semester in Scotland- blessings." --Steve G.

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ITHACA NEIGHBORHOOD HOUSING SERVICES MINI-REPAIR PROGRAM: Roof leak or faucet drip? Need new handrail or lock installed? Are you 62+ years on limited income? Single parent or disabled on limited income? City of Ithaca resident? Tom Gudeman 277-4500

"HOW WELL IS YOUR WATER?" test your well water for contamination & learn to protect wells. Sponsored by Cayuga Lake Watershed Network & Tompkins County Dept of Health.
* Dryden: 3/6, Dryden Village Hall, 16 South St, 7-9pm.
*Groton: 3/13, Groton Town Hall, 101 Conger Boulevard, 7-9pm.

"CARRIE_WHO" wins gift certificate to Surya Incense. Reply w/mailing address by 3/15 to claim.
"JERIGEE" wins gift certificate to Dinosaur Dry Goods. Reply w/mailing address by 3/15 to claim.
"SKY4" wins gift certificate to The Yoga Corner. Reply w/mailing address by 3/15 to claim.
"HP33" wins gift certificate to The Bath Bar. Reply w/mailing address by 3/15 to claim.

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COMMUNITY SURVEY ABOUT CARING FOR OLDER ADULTS: People providing any level of unpaid care to an adult 60+ please complete on-line survey Results will identify needs & enhance community services. Betty Falcao

---SOUND AND BODY 3/11, 7-8:30pm "An inspiring night of sound exploration, movement and community where we'll explore the energizing effects of sounding and its potential to free up tension." Free workshop at Finger Lakes School of Massage 1251 Trumansburg Rd. RSVP 272-9024 or [email protected]
---ACUPRESSURE for beginners: powerful self-healing tool: 3/1 (snow date 3/8) 10am-5pm. Register w/ Cat Berry 256-7070. $50-$100 sliding scale. HOURS accepted
---"QIGONG: Mastering Your Emotions" 3/2 10am-6pm $100, HOURS accepted.
---ITHACA FENG SHUI NEWSLETTER http://www.FengShuiIthaca.com

ITHACA HEALTH FUND's 575 members now are co-owners of $156,000 bank account. This is the world's most transparent health financing system, w/meeting minutes & payments & payment denials detailed on web:

DANCE TEACHER TRAINING: Ballroom Dance, Latin Dance, Swing-Lindy, more. April, June, August. Roger Christian 277 - 0731

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Thanks to Homer & Jane at Lightlink for reliable internet services.

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EDITOR: [email protected]

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