ITHACA COMMUNITY NEWS
March #1 2003

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

[This is the FIRST OF TWO MESSAGES MONTHLY sent to 7,075 Ithaca area residents]

FIFTEEN 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), 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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"NO MORE SNOW!" "NO MORE MITTENS!" "COLD GO AWAY!" Demonstrators with placards on The Commons 3/12 complaining about the weather. "There are just three of us, but we're backed by a silent majority," said Christine Balestra. "I can't take any more snow."

DEAD-OF-WINTER OR EARLY SPRING NATURE WALK at Lick Brook 3/23 at 1:30pm. From Ithaca, go south on Rt. 13. Turn left on Sand Bank Rd. Bear right at fork and park off the right side of the road. 275-9487 Finger Lakes Land Trust

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ITHACA FREE RADIO, a project of Ithaca Indymedia returns 4/1. "It's a mix of locally produced programs & non-commercial music, streaming 24/7 on the web, w/entirely listener-contributed content. We're seeking music from local bands, volunteer DJs, & radio program producers to help keep this project going.

THE ITHACA RADIO HOUR Mondays 89.7 WEOS & 88.1 ICR 6:30pm. Archived at www.radio4all.net To participate: [email protected]

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STRAWBALE CONSTRUCTION PARTY 3/29 & 30, 10am- 5pm, Ecovillage: "Volunteer work contiues until 4/4, so participate any time, for an hour or a day. No skills necessary! Useful tools, if you have them, include measuring tapes, utility knives, wire cutters, pool trowels (the oval, springy type), & electric chainsaws. Gloves are a must. Vegan hot lunch + hot drinks, snacks, & camaraderie provided."

GEOTHERMAL DRILLING: two 1500-ft wells at The Museum of the Earth will heat & cool building by using the Earth itself, rather than convert chemical energy to heat. "The system will save about 90,000 kWh annually. Since each kW generated produces about 1.5 lb carbon dioxide, this system may keep 67 tons/yr CO2 from atmosphere."

EARTH ARTS CLASS FOR TEENS & Adults: Handbuilding, Wheel, & Sculptural Clay: Tues, 6:45pm - 8:45pm, or Thurs 9:30am - 11:30am. Fee: $75. For 4 weeks. (includes all materials and firing). Ithaca HOURS accepted. 272-6486 to register.

"CEFOXX" wins gift certificate to Viva Taqueria. Reply w/mailing address by 4/1 to claim.
"DTAYLERT" wins gift certificate to Ithaca Bakery. Reply w/mailing address by 4/1 to claim.
"GRUGGIERO" wins gift certificate to Oasis. Reply w/mailing address by 4/1 to claim.

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SWEET DEAL FROM SOUTHSIDE & JUST DESSERTS: AN APPRECIATION OF WOMEN
---"Throughout March [Women's HerStory Month], Just Desserts creates a special pastry for community members to show their appreciation to the special woman in their life. For $5 each, these treats will be delivered anywhere in town of Ithaca by SSCC after-school activities participants to raise funds for field trips & supplies. Orders: 273-4190 [HOURS accepted].
---"Leslie Muhlhahn, owner of Just Desserts, values [GIAC youth programs]: 'As a mother, I want my children to be supported & challenged, to be prepared for their roles as responsible adults in the community someday. As a business woman, I want to see young people getting the experience & training they will need to pursue worthwhile, fulfilling careers.'
---"The collaboration comes at a time when nonprofit organizations such as Southside are seeking innovative ways to startup & sustain a number of needed programs on a limited budget."

BREAST CANCER CAUSED BY POLLUTION: Ithaca Breast Cancer Alliance Joins Statewide Campaign to Raise Awareness of Environmental Links to Cancer as part of NYS Breast Cancer Network (NYSBCN), coalition of 23 NYS breast cancer organizations & environmental groups. NYSBCN seeks legistation:
* to refinance & strengthen the New York State Superfund, to clean-up hazardous waste sites that pose serious threats to public health
* to prohibit the use of certain pesticides, including those that are known or suspected to cause cancer or endocrine disruption & those that are acutely toxic
* to support legislation addressing toxic site clean-ups & pesticide use, the NYSBCN islobbying to add six cancer survivor activists from various regions of New York State as voting members to the Health Research Science Board to help determine the direction of breast cancer research [email protected]

ABORTION EXPERIENCE BOOK: "compiling art & stories for book about women who have had abortions. I invite you to confidentially share experiences w/me." --Sareanda 273-1779

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ITHACA HOTEL LIVING WAGE CAMPAIGN! "Seeking to contact people who either work now or have worked in one of our local hotels. We are gathering information about wages & working conditions (confidentiality assured), and seeking a living wage for these workers. If you are a current or former hotel worker, or know anyone who is: Carl Feuer or Pete Meyers 269-0409 [email protected]

ITHACA FAIR TRADE FAIR 3/17 on The Commons: fair trade options & damaging effects of free trade: vendors offering fairly traded brands & local fair trade groups 277-5046 [email protected]

FREE INSTANT ITHACA CLASSIFIEDS ADS: sell, buy,swap, hire

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ITHACA FOOD NEWS

GREENSTAR COUNCIL CANDIDATES 2003: Seven candidates will appear on the ballot throughout April, contesting 7 seats. They are Bill Carini, David Conner, Elizabeth Salon, Barbara Shpack, Tom Stern, Justine VanThilt & Jeremy Youde (2 candidates withdrew). Highest 5 vote-getters receive 3-yr terms, next gets 2-yrs, next gets 1-yr.
---"CORPORATE TAKEOVER OF THE 'ORGANIC' FOOD MARKET" is featured in Syracuse Peace Council News. It references Ithaca article. Six of seven candidates for GreenStar Council have declared their intention to provide member education about corporate brands & shopping alternatives.
---ALSO ON BALLOT, "GreenStar member-owners will decide whether the Cooperative will sell meat, 'as close to organic as possible.' Currently, GreenStar sells only poultry & fish, as close to organic as possible. They will also vote on a member-initiated referendum that would restrict any new meats to those available within a 40-mile radius of Ithaca & produced on family farms to be inspected by GreenStar member-owners."

FREE BOTTLE OF FINE WINE from Turback's Restaurant during March, to any table ordering two or more entrees. Offer not valid w/ early bird specials, must be 21+. Print form for wine
---Local musicians: 3/26 Nate Bishop 8:30-10pm, Mindy Stevenson & Molly Macmillan 10:00pm-midnight.

ITHACA FARMER'S MARKET REOPENS APRIL 5 at 9am

"LYNN_TAYLOR" wins gift certificate to Ithaca Chocolates. Reply w/mailing address by 4/1 to claim.
"PWC" wins gift certificate to Cafe Strand. Reply w/mailing address by 4/1 to claim.
"BK20" wins gift certificate to Gimme! Coffee. Reply w/mailing address by 4/1 to claim.
"THEMADBOWLER" wins gift certificate to Acorn Designs. Reply w/mailing address by 4/1 to claim.

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ITHACA FUN NEWS

ONLINE CALENDARS OF LOCAL EVENTS:
* ithaca.indymedia.org/media/event by Ithaca IndyMedia Center.
* ithacaevents.com by TC Convention & Visitors Bureau
* ithaca.edu/concerts Ithaca College concerts

DAYLONG DANCE MARATHON! 3/28 & 29 from 8pm to 8pm Appel Commons, Cornell: 24-hour dance & activity marathon: listen to local music, play interactive games to raise money for American Red Cross of Tompkins County. "Come watch, listen, participate while cheering on our dance marathoners who will not sleep or sit for 24 hours." To sponsor, dance, or volunteer: 273-1900.

ITHACA BAREFOOT BOOGIE: 3/22, 7:30-10:30pm: free form barefoot dance party at Tiamat Studio, 136 The Commons, Smoke/Alcohol-Free. D.J. Eric Miller. Donation requested. All Ages Welcome

TIM MILLER'S "GLORY BOX"-- 2 FREE TICKETS TO FIRST TEN WHO REPLY TO THIS EMAIL 3/24 at 8:00pm State Theatre. Reserved Seating tickets $15, $12 for college students (1/8 HOUR accepted). "concerns lesbian & gay marriage non-rights, but the subject is love & frustrated romance." Tickets at Clinton House 273-4497, Willard Straight, Dillingham Center or State Theatre "not recommended for young children."

"AMERICANS IN PARIS" ORGAN CONCERT 3/25 David Higgs, works by DuruflØù, Franck, Conte, Bolcom. 8pm, Sage Chapel, Cornell, free, 255-4760

SCRABBLE FOR LITERACY FUNDRAISER 3/29, 7pm, Holiday Inn, for Literacy Volunteers of Tompkins County. Teams of eight players compete for Grand Prize. Food, drink, raffles. $35 per individual or $250 for eight. [email protected] 277-6442.

GOLDEN ASH AWARDS- REALITY CHECK'S SPOOF SHOW: local performers 4/5, 7-10 at State Theatre. Complimentary tickets for Tompkins County Teens [email protected] or 745-1717.

BOUND FOR GLORY live radio, Anabel Taylor Hall, Cornell, Sunday nights 8-11pm, presented by Phil Shapiro. Kids welcome. 844-4535 WVBR 93.5FM or --3/30 DAVID MASSENGILL "sings stories of his childhood in TN/VA."

"MORNING LIGHT" new CD by Myra Kovary & Laura Campbell, Flute & Harp. Sold around town.

The 7th Art "CHAIR-ISH DOWNTOWN CINEMA" CAMPAIGN: "Our goal: $50,000 by May 1 to buy 280 new, extra-comfortable ergonomically designed theater seats to replace the old Cinemapolis seats. All contributions welcome. $200 buys you a seat of your own, complete w/plaque w/ your name,or name of your business, group, favorite movie star or director! Tax-deductible contributions at Cinemapolis or Fall Creek Pictures, or checks to "7th Art": 97 W. Candor Road, Candor, NY 13743.

ITHACA FESTIVAL [5/29-6/1] has , 3/17DEADLINE FOR PARADE APPLICATIONS (as well as Performer Craft Vendor & Food Vendor Applications). Apply 273-3646 or ithacafestival.org "Ithaca Festival showcases over 1,000 local artists-- musicians, visual & performance artists, dancers & actors, mimes, storytellers, poets, writers, community groups, ensembles.

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ITHACA WAR & PEACE REPORT

3/15 ITHACA PEACE RALLY 1:00-2:00pm at Dewitt Park, walk to Commons. Connie F.

3/15th WASHINGTON D.C.PEACE MARCH AND RALLY Six busloads are filled with Ithacans. internationalanswer.org Carpool: need drivers/riders: Eric 272-5165. Ithacans gather 11:30am 14th St & Madison Dr at Museum of American History. Rally noon, Washington Monument.

3/16 CANDLELIGHT VIGIL at 7pm in Washington Park: W. Buffalo St.

PEACE VIGIL Mondays 4-6pm by the CVS at corner Clinton & Rte.13. Wednesdays by Simeons 8-9am.
PEACE MARCH EVERY DAY: walk, bus or bike to work, school, shop.

3/22: NYC MARCH AGAINST WAR ON IRAQ United for Peace and Justice NYC http://www.unitedforpeace.org/nyc "Mayor & NYPD have pledged to respect our right to march." NYC recently became 141st city to declare for peace

ITHACANS PLACE FULL PAGE ANTI-WAR ADS: Over 350 residents pledged $12,500 in four days. Their names are at ithacanews.org/antiwar.signers.html Thanks to David Elliott!

THE "PATRIOT" ACT MAKES IT LEGAL FOR GOVERNMENT AGENTS TO:
* break into your home when you are away, conduct search & hide whether a warrant was issued
* demand information about library books you read [TCPL against Anti-Patriot Act
* obtain your credit reports & other sensitive information w/out judicial approval or your consent
--From full page ad in NYT 2/25 aclu.org

TOMPKINS COUNTY BILL OF RIGHTS DEFENSE COMMITTEE, has met twice. Nnext meeting3/25 at 5:30pm Autumn Leaves Used Books. Listserve: send blank email: [email protected]
--Work for a new county-wide Civil Liberties Resolution with more teeth than the Ithaca City Resolution
--Educate the public on what our rights are and how to protect them
--Amend the City of Ithaca Civil Liberties Resolution
--Set up monetary funds for education and defense
--Lobby against the new proposed Patriot Act II
--Be a presence at meetings & gatherings
--Research how information is being gathered under Patriot Act I.
--Develop an emergency response to civil rights infringements
--Recruit more people: Pete Myers

PRESERVE ANTI-WAR RADIO: Ask Mike Black, WEOS -FM mgr to air "Democracy Now" 8-10am & restore Pacifica's Peace Watch 10-11am.

ITHACANS WATCH THE RELIGIOUS RIGHT

ITHACA WAR TAX RESISTERS POTLUCK 3/15, 6:30pm, 125 Park Pl. RSVP [email protected]

CATALYZER JOURNAL is local site seeking anti-war poetry, prose, art. --Ben Regenspan

ANTI-WAR ART INSTALLATION: at See Spot Gallery: "read/see history of effects of depleted uranium on the people of Iraq from the Gulf War. Take leaflets, write feelings" Lucy

"NO WAR ON IRAQ" YARD SIGN is cover photo of the new issue of14850 Magazine: Get signs at Autumn Leaves: $3.00.

"ITHACA CATHOLIC WORKERS is distributing flyer asking military personnel to refuse to fight in Persian Gulf. "Counseling Soldiers on Military Discharges & GI Rights," 3/8, 9am-4:00pm, Christ & Holy Trinity Church, Westport CT. Register: [email protected] objector.org "US Marines Refuse to Fight Gulf War II"

LANSING JUDGE LOWERS PROTEST CHARGES AGAINST ADULTS, KEEPS YOUTH CHARGES HIGH "At yet another 'pretrial conference' for the 13 people arrested at army/marine recruiter's office 12/21, the Lansing judge announced that the Tompkins County DA's office has changed the charges of those over 18 to a trespass violation. Those charged are Antoinette Chen See, Grace Ritter, Clare Grady, Neil Golder, Peter DeMott, Lisa Guido, Emmy Kaponen, Leslie Schultz, Daniel Burns.
---"However, the charges of the 4 people under 18 remain a trespass misdemeanor. Even the judge was puzzled by the DA's decision to charge the minors with a more serious crime. (two theories: 1) adults charged with a misdemeanor have the right to individual jury trials which the town does not want to pay for. Minors have no right to jury trials. 2) DA wants to seriously punish these kids as an example to any mischievous teens out there who want to nonviolently express their feelings about the US invading Iraq). The minors are Anna Ritter, Ana Grady Flores, Oona Grady-deFlaun, Marie DeMott-Grady.
---"Adults' trial is scheduled 5/6 in Lansing Town Court. The minors's trial is 5/13 same place.
---"This case is a good example of how youthful offenders are prosecuted more intensely than adults in so many cases in this country." --Linda Holzbaur. Contact the DA's office to complain about selective, more severe charges against these four young women.

JOE CASSANITI COMMUNITY SERVICE AWARD: $250 presented yearly to a TC high school senior in who has demonstrated his/her commitment to the community through volunteerism. Nomination packets: TCAction, 701 Spencer Rd. Nominate by 3/31 [email protected]

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EARTH DAY 2003 planning meetings: Wally Woods 272-1312 To exhibit 4/27 in DeWitt Park

CURB YOUR CAR COALITION 3/21, 3:00pm Autumn Leaves Books (confirm David Kay or Rod Howe) Common aims: "Move people out of automobiles for health & environmental benefits, promote community & connectedness, provide education, overcome obstacles to alternative transport, address safety issues, promote walkable communities, long range transportation planning, trail initiatives, etc." See also 22september.org & ecoplan.org/carfreeday/cf_index.htm & walkablecommunities.org

STUDENT RE-USE PROJECT "organizing 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

GARDEN CLUB MEETING 3/18, 7:30pm, at the Kenneth Post Floriculture Auditorium , off Tower Rd, Cornell. "Integrated Pest Management of Greenhouse-Grown Raspberries." Refreshments, Q&A.

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1,400 COUNTY TAXPAYERS PROTEST TAX ASSESSMENT :" About 900 of the 15-minute appointments have already occurred. Assessment Director Coggin estimated another 500 taxpayers would make appointments by the deadline of March 31. Tentative assessment roll will be filed 5/1, after which property owners not satisfied w/assessments must file grievances w/Board of Assessment Review. Taxpayers should come w/ info such as a recent appraisal or lists of comparable sales to document the value of their property. Public computers at Assessment Dept available to check comparable properties used in setting that assessment. Valeria Coggin 274-5517; Jay Franklin 274-5517.

PUSHBACK exists to "educate taxpayers & lobby Albany about the Governor's budget, which would remove almost $1 million from aid to Ithaca schools, causing program cuts, higher school taxes, & job loss." PushBack is an open to anyone to join at any time. Next meeting 3/20, 4 pm in Old Jail, 125 East Court St. Tim Joseph, 274-5434, 277-2519; Jeff Furman, 272-6394; Larry Baum, 257-3524

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AMAZING ITHACA HISTORY

* March 13, 1938: Nate Tobey delivers from his orchard APPLES TWO YEARS OLD, perfectly edible.
* March 14, 1940: Freak THUNDERLESS LIGHTNING caused by "lack of vacuum in the atmosphere."
* March 15, 1954: Residents of Cayuga Heights meet to condemn PLAN B for construction of four-lane Rte 13 through the middle of their village. Opponents claimed there was no need for such a road & that it would cuase "undesirable developments" even if located in Lansing.
* March 16, 1966: LARGEST GLOBE in County is installed at Ithaca College, names 20,000 places on earth.
* March 17, 1964: $3,500 VIOLIN, stolen from Sheila Statman reappears for sale for $70 at a local store.
* March 18, 1880: W. C. deder of Ulysses plants 1/2 acre of SUGAR CANE. He harvested enough to produce 65 gallons of syrup.
* March 19, 1951: FIRST TV SCHEDULE published in local paper. Channel 12 shows Kukla, Fran & Ollie.
* March 20, 1878: Morgan SILVER DOLLARS first circulated here.

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YOUR LETTERS

"I would like to be added to the list to receive this excellent resource. Thank you very much." --S. Rakow
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---[re: "ITHACA" DOMAINS]: -"How about adding http://www.ithacabirthgroup.org --Gail B.
---"How about ithacaNHS.org Ithaca Neighborhood Housing Services." --Sue C. Perlgut
---"I didn't see the website for St. Paul's United Methodist Church stpaulsithaca.org Thanks in advance for adding us to your list!" --Marilou Slattery
--And ithacabirthgroup.org & ithacashowsyndicate.org & ithacacommunityorchestra.org & ithaca.coop
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"I did a scan for "Ithaca" domains you may have missed. I tried to screen out non-local sites as well as bogus portals that really have little or nothing to do w/ Ithaca. "I do not claim that this list is comprehensive (it almost certainly is not). Also, I didn't scrupulously check for overlap with your list--there may be some duplicates. Anyway, it was an interesting exercise." --Rich Entlich
---[REPLY] Thanks for sending 45 new additional 'Ithaca' domains. Now 105 are linked from archive.030225.html#ithacadomains
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"I was looking for some volunteer opportunities in the town. So it would be nice if this newsletter carried such announcements & opportunities." --Meena
---[REPLY] See volunteertompkins.org
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"Do you know of a DIGITAL camera club here in Ithaca.....I am looking for their phone number or a members phone number." --Amy Bowden ---[REPLY] Contact [email protected]
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"I wish that many who are anti-war would take on Mother Teresa's attitude..."Don't ask me to go to an anti-war rally, but to come to a peace rally," to me that means sometimes war is necessary (I am morally against violence and guns) to achieve peace by stopping those like Hitler. Does anyone ask what the Kurdistan people want? On NPR , they want the Americans there...they know what it's like to have biological chemicals used to kill thousands of them...how easily we forget, when it comes to only thinking of only America's needs for education, hospitals, etc. My father was German & came to America to fight against his own country in WWII... he knows the price of freedom is great." --Dianea Kohl
---[REPLY] Many veterans are particularly against the U.S. attack, which massacres millions (by bombing, embargo, destruction of food & water) for the sins of their dictator. Loyalty to veterans is not proven by sending their children to kill & die, wherever the President points the flag.
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"Thanks for your service to the community! Your newsletter & the one from the Alternatives Federal Credit Union are the only electronic newsletters I read. You are doing a great job." --M.K.
---[REPLY] Thanks! Donations for this work are welcome at Box 365, Ithaca 14851.
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"Thanks for the Wal-Mart/Ithaca info-- the railroad bit is especially encouraging, given that in 9 mo Cohen will be gone. (I read Wetmore's pamphlet-- great stuff! It's interesting to learn that these judges are right-wing. 'Ithaca Politics for Dummies' is needed.
---"The six-point traffic plan sucks. The plan to widen Spencer St seems especially insane; a priori, that would seem impossible from an engineering standpoint. I guess, in a sense, it is: I hear the plan involves destroying two houses. So obviously the important thing is to get an anti-sprawl mayor this year. Which good people are running? I'm interested in doing some campaign work." --b
---[REPLY] Thanks. This newsletter will announce candidacies & connect to campaigns.
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"I hate to tell you this but the bridge widening over Six-Mile Creek is a done deal. NYSDoT has no objections to the project because it is being payed for by Ithaca's taxpayers. Wal-Mart could be open for business by as early as July along with its companion store - Lowes. Actually I can't understand your distaste for the company. Wal-Mart is a good neighbor who supports the local community & provides merchandise at a less expensive price. Wal-Mart usually seeks a 20% profit unlike other store such as Wegmens who operate at double that profit margin & then there's the Mom & Pop store that operate at something like 50%. The Mom & Pop stores are the real villians here. Whats so bad about keeping prices low so the average Joe can afford them?" --Tex
---[REPLY] Wal-Mart has been found to increase taxes & traffic while reducing job base
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"What's up with the piece on the graffiti? Giving the perpetrators a free pass based on the content of their scrawls [on the Seneca Street Parking ramp] is, IMHO, a mistake. Bad behavior is bad behavior, regardless of how worthy you think the motive or message is, a lesson that the Bush administration needs to learn. By loosely endorsing the grafitti, you stand to alienate many potential allies in much the same manner as the Commander-in-Thief. There's obviously no comparison between threatening to start a war & scrawling graffiti, but they're both poor ways to win hearts & minds." --Jim Houghton
---[REPLY] I like graffiti, especially on huge grey walls that themselves vandalized an historic building. Democracy Wall now has pro-war scrawls on it as well.
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[re: Wegman's prohibition of anti-war tag on Meadowsweet Yogurt]: "Other ways to deal with stores like Wegmans: on the Meadowsweet issue it is possible to conduct a BUYcott. Everyone can make a point to stop in & buy their favorite flavor of Meadowsweet yogurt. When they run out, as they surely will if a buycott is conducted, then everyone needs to make a specific request. I haven't bought yogurt in probably five years, but I did tonight. Also, everyone needs to be sure not to leave the yogurt case without leaving behind a colorful antiwar flyer. Handmade is good. No War On Iraq. In fact there are lots of wonderful places to leave such flyers all over such stores. All the big box display racks beg for meaning. This is an action that takes no coordination. In fact, its better if no one person tries to do too much in any one store. The main thing is that many people do it and keep doing it. The yogurt section of Wegman's should never be without an antiwar flyer!" --Howard Engelskirchen
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"It's been great to have our Meadowsweet yogurt fly off the [Wegman's] shelves this week-- this in fact creates serious difficulty for us! 0We milk just the right number of cows to produce the amount of yogurt we regularly sell in a week & then have no more yogurt until the next week! So if we deliver to the stores on Friday, the shelf is empty by Monday. So my suggestion is: If you like our yogurt, by all means keep buying it (growth in sales long term would be great). But if you're just buying our yoghurt to support us, maybe you could send the money to Moveon.org for us instead! That's the cause we REALLY want to promote!
---"Lastly, how about re-directing the feedback to the Journal instead of to Wegmans. The 3/5 edition had a bad editorial on politics & shopping, claiming we need to keep 'politics' out of shopping so folks can shop in 'peace.'
---"1. What is politics anyway? Is "United We Stand" milk political? Is irradiated meat? Disney movies? Cereal boxes plastered with American flags?
---"2. What is offensive to one may not be to another, & aren't individuals responsible for choosing to be offended? How can a notice that is purely informational - an announcement of a march, be offensive.
---"3. Those labels are not political "slogans" as everyone is saying, but informational notices for those who would already be interested in going to the march! Is information offensive?
---"4. Can peace be offensive? War is definitely offensive, but peace? Threatening, yes, but offensive?" --Barb & Steve Smith & family
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"We've been discussing car sharing in the overall context of reducing car use. I found the web site has a lot of useful information in the topic, including studies, data, etc." --Fernando DeAragon
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"Paul...where do I get some of the "No War on Iraq" yard signs seen around town?" --Irma Padamsee
---[REPLY] Autumn Leaves Used Books, 115 The Commons. Requested donation is $3.00. HOURS accepted.
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"YL80" wins gift certificate to Toko Imports. Reply w/mailing address by 4/1 to claim.
"DA23" wins gift certificate to Surya Incense. Reply w/mailing address by 4/1 to claim.
"IMAGINE" wins gift certificate to Dinosaur Dry Goods. Reply w/mailing address by 4/1 to claim.

"TrueMajority has started a campaign to wear blue ribbons to protest against the war. They are easy to make, or can be ordered 250 for $15. I also bought some blue flagging tape from Agway to tie blue ribbons to my car antenna. It would be great if you could include this info in your newsletter. Let's turn Ithaca into a sea of blue!" --Susanne

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PESTICIDE LAW AFFECTS RETAILERS, APPLICATORS, HOMEOWNERS
Tompkins County residents now have a legal right [Neighborhood Notification Law] to be informed when lawn & landscape pesticides are being sprayed. Commercial lawn applicators must notify adjacent properties of proposed pesticide application 48 hours prior. Retailers selling general-use pesticides for lawn & landscape applications must post signs close to product display. Homeowners who apply pesticides themselves must post visual notification markers along the perimeter of treated areas over 100ft2. Law does not apply to farm applications of pesticides, to pesticide applications on public lands, or to golf courses. Applies to sprayed materials, not granular. Meeting 3/25, 8:30pm: Understanding the Neighborhood Notification Law. Meeting 4/9: Low Maintenance Lawn Care w/out pesticide, both at Cooperative Extension, 615 Willow Ave. 272-2292.

MEET THE POLICE: "THERE IS NO US AND THEM. IT'S ALL US."
These community events are organized by local residents & are open to everyone 16 yrs+. Ilonka 273-1779 to register for one of these: * 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.
---"I don't want to be scared by the police in my town." (Ithaca Resident)
---"I wish people wouldn't look the other way when I walk by." (Police Officer)

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I.I.C.W.C. COMMUNITY MEETING 3/18, 7:00pm Public Library: Christine Sanchirico of the Ithaca Breast Cancer Alliance speaks. Also, we will explore how a community-based wellness center can assist those individuals to explore treatment options. Discuss Healing Arts Directory & 5/3 Healing Arts Fair

"LINDASLAT" wins gift certificate to The Yoga Corner. Reply w/mailing address by 4/1 to claim.
"MEGXCORE" wins gift certificate to Cinemapolis/FCP. Reply w/mailing address by 4/1 to claim.
"RAPHAEL_RAPHAEL" wins gift certificate to Sparrow's. Reply w/mailing address by 4/1 to claim.
"W_IRAKOZE" wins gift certificate to White Lotus Home. Reply w/mailing address by 4/1 to claim.

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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 W/BACK ISSUES

ITHACA COMMUNITY NEWS
March #1 2003

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

[This is the FIRST OF TWO MESSAGES MONTHLY sent to 7,075 Ithaca area residents]

FIFTEEN 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), 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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"NO MORE SNOW!" "NO MORE MITTENS!" "COLD GO AWAY!" Demonstrators with placards on The Commons 3/12 complaining about the weather. "There are just three of us, but we're backed by a silent majority," said Christine Balestra. "I can't take any more snow."

DEAD-OF-WINTER OR EARLY SPRING NATURE WALK at Lick Brook 3/23 at 1:30pm. From Ithaca, go south on Rt. 13. Turn left on Sand Bank Rd. Bear right at fork and park off the right side of the road. 275-9487 Finger Lakes Land Trust

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ITHACA FREE RADIO, a project of Ithaca Indymedia returns 4/1. "It's a mix of locally produced programs & non-commercial music, streaming 24/7 on the web, w/entirely listener-contributed content. We're seeking music from local bands, volunteer DJs, & radio program producers to help keep this project going.

THE ITHACA RADIO HOUR Mondays 89.7 WEOS & 88.1 ICR 6:30pm. Archived at www.radio4all.net To participate: [email protected]

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STRAWBALE CONSTRUCTION PARTY 3/29 & 30, 10am- 5pm, Ecovillage: "Volunteer work contiues until 4/4, so participate any time, for an hour or a day. No skills necessary! Useful tools, if you have them, include measuring tapes, utility knives, wire cutters, pool trowels (the oval, springy type), & electric chainsaws. Gloves are a must. Vegan hot lunch + hot drinks, snacks, & camaraderie provided."

GEOTHERMAL DRILLING: two 1500-ft wells at The Museum of the Earth will heat & cool building by using the Earth itself, rather than convert chemical energy to heat. "The system will save about 90,000 kWh annually. Since each kW generated produces about 1.5 lb carbon dioxide, this system may keep 67 tons/yr CO2 from atmosphere."

EARTH ARTS CLASS FOR TEENS & Adults: Handbuilding, Wheel, & Sculptural Clay: Tues, 6:45pm - 8:45pm, or Thurs 9:30am - 11:30am. Fee: $75. For 4 weeks. (includes all materials and firing). Ithaca HOURS accepted. 272-6486 to register.

"CEFOXX" wins gift certificate to Viva Taqueria. Reply w/mailing address by 4/1 to claim.
"DTAYLERT" wins gift certificate to Ithaca Bakery. Reply w/mailing address by 4/1 to claim.
"GRUGGIERO" wins gift certificate to Oasis. Reply w/mailing address by 4/1 to claim.

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SWEET DEAL FROM SOUTHSIDE & JUST DESSERTS: AN APPRECIATION OF WOMEN
---"Throughout March [Women's HerStory Month], Just Desserts creates a special pastry for community members to show their appreciation to the special woman in their life. For $5 each, these treats will be delivered anywhere in town of Ithaca by SSCC after-school activities participants to raise funds for field trips & supplies. Orders: 273-4190 [HOURS accepted].
---"Leslie Muhlhahn, owner of Just Desserts, values [GIAC youth programs]: 'As a mother, I want my children to be supported & challenged, to be prepared for their roles as responsible adults in the community someday. As a business woman, I want to see young people getting the experience & training they will need to pursue worthwhile, fulfilling careers.'
---"The collaboration comes at a time when nonprofit organizations such as Southside are seeking innovative ways to startup & sustain a number of needed programs on a limited budget."

BREAST CANCER CAUSED BY POLLUTION: Ithaca Breast Cancer Alliance Joins Statewide Campaign to Raise Awareness of Environmental Links to Cancer as part of NYS Breast Cancer Network (NYSBCN), coalition of 23 NYS breast cancer organizations & environmental groups. NYSBCN seeks legistation:
* to refinance & strengthen the New York State Superfund, to clean-up hazardous waste sites that pose serious threats to public health
* to prohibit the use of certain pesticides, including those that are known or suspected to cause cancer or endocrine disruption & those that are acutely toxic
* to support legislation addressing toxic site clean-ups & pesticide use, the NYSBCN islobbying to add six cancer survivor activists from various regions of New York State as voting members to the Health Research Science Board to help determine the direction of breast cancer research [email protected]

ABORTION EXPERIENCE BOOK: "compiling art & stories for book about women who have had abortions. I invite you to confidentially share experiences w/me." --Sareanda 273-1779

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ITHACA HOTEL LIVING WAGE CAMPAIGN! "Seeking to contact people who either work now or have worked in one of our local hotels. We are gathering information about wages & working conditions (confidentiality assured), and seeking a living wage for these workers. If you are a current or former hotel worker, or know anyone who is: Carl Feuer or Pete Meyers 269-0409 [email protected]

ITHACA FAIR TRADE FAIR 3/17 on The Commons: fair trade options & damaging effects of free trade: vendors offering fairly traded brands & local fair trade groups 277-5046 [email protected]

FREE INSTANT ITHACA CLASSIFIEDS ADS: sell, buy,swap, hire

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ITHACA FOOD NEWS

GREENSTAR COUNCIL CANDIDATES 2003: Seven candidates will appear on the ballot throughout April, contesting 7 seats. They are Bill Carini, David Conner, Elizabeth Salon, Barbara Shpack, Tom Stern, Justine VanThilt & Jeremy Youde (2 candidates withdrew). Highest 5 vote-getters receive 3-yr terms, next gets 2-yrs, next gets 1-yr.
---"CORPORATE TAKEOVER OF THE 'ORGANIC' FOOD MARKET" is featured in Syracuse Peace Council News. It references Ithaca article. Six of seven candidates for GreenStar Council have declared their intention to provide member education about corporate brands & shopping alternatives.
---ALSO ON BALLOT, "GreenStar member-owners will decide whether the Cooperative will sell meat, 'as close to organic as possible.' Currently, GreenStar sells only poultry & fish, as close to organic as possible. They will also vote on a member-initiated referendum that would restrict any new meats to those available within a 40-mile radius of Ithaca & produced on family farms to be inspected by GreenStar member-owners."

FREE BOTTLE OF FINE WINE from Turback's Restaurant during March, to any table ordering two or more entrees. Offer not valid w/ early bird specials, must be 21+. Print form for wine
---Local musicians: 3/26 Nate Bishop 8:30-10pm, Mindy Stevenson & Molly Macmillan 10:00pm-midnight.

ITHACA FARMER'S MARKET REOPENS APRIL 5 at 9am

"LYNN_TAYLOR" wins gift certificate to Ithaca Chocolates. Reply w/mailing address by 4/1 to claim.
"PWC" wins gift certificate to Cafe Strand. Reply w/mailing address by 4/1 to claim.
"BK20" wins gift certificate to Gimme! Coffee. Reply w/mailing address by 4/1 to claim.
"THEMADBOWLER" wins gift certificate to Acorn Designs. Reply w/mailing address by 4/1 to claim.

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ITHACA FUN NEWS

ONLINE CALENDARS OF LOCAL EVENTS:
* ithaca.indymedia.org/media/event by Ithaca IndyMedia Center.
* ithacaevents.com by TC Convention & Visitors Bureau
* ithaca.edu/concerts Ithaca College concerts

DAYLONG DANCE MARATHON! 3/28 & 29 from 8pm to 8pm Appel Commons, Cornell: 24-hour dance & activity marathon: listen to local music, play interactive games to raise money for American Red Cross of Tompkins County. "Come watch, listen, participate while cheering on our dance marathoners who will not sleep or sit for 24 hours." To sponsor, dance, or volunteer: 273-1900.

ITHACA BAREFOOT BOOGIE: 3/22, 7:30-10:30pm: free form barefoot dance party at Tiamat Studio, 136 The Commons, Smoke/Alcohol-Free. D.J. Eric Miller. Donation requested. All Ages Welcome

TIM MILLER'S "GLORY BOX"-- 2 FREE TICKETS TO FIRST TEN WHO REPLY TO THIS EMAIL 3/24 at 8:00pm State Theatre. Reserved Seating tickets $15, $12 for college students (1/8 HOUR accepted). "concerns lesbian & gay marriage non-rights, but the subject is love & frustrated romance." Tickets at Clinton House 273-4497, Willard Straight, Dillingham Center or State Theatre "not recommended for young children."

"AMERICANS IN PARIS" ORGAN CONCERT 3/25 David Higgs, works by DuruflØù, Franck, Conte, Bolcom. 8pm, Sage Chapel, Cornell, free, 255-4760

SCRABBLE FOR LITERACY FUNDRAISER 3/29, 7pm, Holiday Inn, for Literacy Volunteers of Tompkins County. Teams of eight players compete for Grand Prize. Food, drink, raffles. $35 per individual or $250 for eight. [email protected] 277-6442.

GOLDEN ASH AWARDS- REALITY CHECK'S SPOOF SHOW: local performers 4/5, 7-10 at State Theatre. Complimentary tickets for Tompkins County Teens [email protected] or 745-1717.

BOUND FOR GLORY live radio, Anabel Taylor Hall, Cornell, Sunday nights 8-11pm, presented by Phil Shapiro. Kids welcome. 844-4535 WVBR 93.5FM or --3/30 DAVID MASSENGILL "sings stories of his childhood in TN/VA."

"MORNING LIGHT" new CD by Myra Kovary & Laura Campbell, Flute & Harp. Sold around town.

The 7th Art "CHAIR-ISH DOWNTOWN CINEMA" CAMPAIGN: "Our goal: $50,000 by May 1 to buy 280 new, extra-comfortable ergonomically designed theater seats to replace the old Cinemapolis seats. All contributions welcome. $200 buys you a seat of your own, complete w/plaque w/ your name,or name of your business, group, favorite movie star or director! Tax-deductible contributions at Cinemapolis or Fall Creek Pictures, or checks to "7th Art": 97 W. Candor Road, Candor, NY 13743.

ITHACA FESTIVAL [5/29-6/1] has , 3/17DEADLINE FOR PARADE APPLICATIONS (as well as Performer Craft Vendor & Food Vendor Applications). Apply 273-3646 or ithacafestival.org "Ithaca Festival showcases over 1,000 local artists-- musicians, visual & performance artists, dancers & actors, mimes, storytellers, poets, writers, community groups, ensembles.

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ITHACA WAR & PEACE REPORT

3/15 ITHACA PEACE RALLY 1:00-2:00pm at Dewitt Park, walk to Commons. Connie F.

3/15th WASHINGTON D.C.PEACE MARCH AND RALLY Six busloads are filled with Ithacans. internationalanswer.org Carpool: need drivers/riders: Eric 272-5165. Ithacans gather 11:30am 14th St & Madison Dr at Museum of American History. Rally noon, Washington Monument.

3/16 CANDLELIGHT VIGIL at 7pm in Washington Park: W. Buffalo St.

PEACE VIGIL Mondays 4-6pm by the CVS at corner Clinton & Rte.13. Wednesdays by Simeons 8-9am.
PEACE MARCH EVERY DAY: walk, bus or bike to work, school, shop.

3/22: NYC MARCH AGAINST WAR ON IRAQ United for Peace and Justice NYC http://www.unitedforpeace.org/nyc "Mayor & NYPD have pledged to respect our right to march." NYC recently became 141st city to declare for peace

ITHACANS PLACE FULL PAGE ANTI-WAR ADS: Over 350 residents pledged $12,500 in four days. Their names are at ithacanews.org/antiwar.signers.html Thanks to David Elliott!

THE "PATRIOT" ACT MAKES IT LEGAL FOR GOVERNMENT AGENTS TO:
* break into your home when you are away, conduct search & hide whether a warrant was issued
* demand information about library books you read [TCPL against Anti-Patriot Act
* obtain your credit reports & other sensitive information w/out judicial approval or your consent
--From full page ad in NYT 2/25 aclu.org

TOMPKINS COUNTY BILL OF RIGHTS DEFENSE COMMITTEE, has met twice. Nnext meeting3/25 at 5:30pm Autumn Leaves Used Books. Listserve: send blank email: [email protected]
--Work for a new county-wide Civil Liberties Resolution with more teeth than the Ithaca City Resolution
--Educate the public on what our rights are and how to protect them
--Amend the City of Ithaca Civil Liberties Resolution
--Set up monetary funds for education and defense
--Lobby against the new proposed Patriot Act II
--Be a presence at meetings & gatherings
--Research how information is being gathered under Patriot Act I.
--Develop an emergency response to civil rights infringements
--Recruit more people: Pete Myers

PRESERVE ANTI-WAR RADIO: Ask Mike Black, WEOS -FM mgr to air "Democracy Now" 8-10am & restore Pacifica's Peace Watch 10-11am.

ITHACANS WATCH THE RELIGIOUS RIGHT

ITHACA WAR TAX RESISTERS POTLUCK 3/15, 6:30pm, 125 Park Pl. RSVP [email protected]

CATALYZER JOURNAL is local site seeking anti-war poetry, prose, art. --Ben Regenspan

ANTI-WAR ART INSTALLATION: at See Spot Gallery: "read/see history of effects of depleted uranium on the people of Iraq from the Gulf War. Take leaflets, write feelings" Lucy

"NO WAR ON IRAQ" YARD SIGN is cover photo of the new issue of14850 Magazine: Get signs at Autumn Leaves: $3.00.

"ITHACA CATHOLIC WORKERS is distributing flyer asking military personnel to refuse to fight in Persian Gulf. "Counseling Soldiers on Military Discharges & GI Rights," 3/8, 9am-4:00pm, Christ & Holy Trinity Church, Westport CT. Register: [email protected] objector.org "US Marines Refuse to Fight Gulf War II"

LANSING JUDGE LOWERS PROTEST CHARGES AGAINST ADULTS, KEEPS YOUTH CHARGES HIGH "At yet another 'pretrial conference' for the 13 people arrested at army/marine recruiter's office 12/21, the Lansing judge announced that the Tompkins County DA's office has changed the charges of those over 18 to a trespass violation. Those charged are Antoinette Chen See, Grace Ritter, Clare Grady, Neil Golder, Peter DeMott, Lisa Guido, Emmy Kaponen, Leslie Schultz, Daniel Burns.
---"However, the charges of the 4 people under 18 remain a trespass misdemeanor. Even the judge was puzzled by the DA's decision to charge the minors with a more serious crime. (two theories: 1) adults charged with a misdemeanor have the right to individual jury trials which the town does not want to pay for. Minors have no right to jury trials. 2) DA wants to seriously punish these kids as an example to any mischievous teens out there who want to nonviolently express their feelings about the US invading Iraq). The minors are Anna Ritter, Ana Grady Flores, Oona Grady-deFlaun, Marie DeMott-Grady.
---"Adults' trial is scheduled 5/6 in Lansing Town Court. The minors's trial is 5/13 same place.
---"This case is a good example of how youthful offenders are prosecuted more intensely than adults in so many cases in this country." --Linda Holzbaur. Contact the DA's office to complain about selective, more severe charges against these four young women.

JOE CASSANITI COMMUNITY SERVICE AWARD: $250 presented yearly to a TC high school senior in who has demonstrated his/her commitment to the community through volunteerism. Nomination packets: TCAction, 701 Spencer Rd. Nominate by 3/31 [email protected]

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EARTH DAY 2003 planning meetings: Wally Woods 272-1312 To exhibit 4/27 in DeWitt Park

CURB YOUR CAR COALITION 3/21, 3:00pm Autumn Leaves Books (confirm David Kay or Rod Howe) Common aims: "Move people out of automobiles for health & environmental benefits, promote community & connectedness, provide education, overcome obstacles to alternative transport, address safety issues, promote walkable communities, long range transportation planning, trail initiatives, etc." See also 22september.org & ecoplan.org/carfreeday/cf_index.htm & walkablecommunities.org

STUDENT RE-USE PROJECT "organizing 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

GARDEN CLUB MEETING 3/18, 7:30pm, at the Kenneth Post Floriculture Auditorium , off Tower Rd, Cornell. "Integrated Pest Management of Greenhouse-Grown Raspberries." Refreshments, Q&A.

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1,400 COUNTY TAXPAYERS PROTEST TAX ASSESSMENT :" About 900 of the 15-minute appointments have already occurred. Assessment Director Coggin estimated another 500 taxpayers would make appointments by the deadline of March 31. Tentative assessment roll will be filed 5/1, after which property owners not satisfied w/assessments must file grievances w/Board of Assessment Review. Taxpayers should come w/ info such as a recent appraisal or lists of comparable sales to document the value of their property. Public computers at Assessment Dept available to check comparable properties used in setting that assessment. Valeria Coggin 274-5517; Jay Franklin 274-5517.

PUSHBACK exists to "educate taxpayers & lobby Albany about the Governor's budget, which would remove almost $1 million from aid to Ithaca schools, causing program cuts, higher school taxes, & job loss." PushBack is an open to anyone to join at any time. Next meeting 3/20, 4 pm in Old Jail, 125 East Court St. Tim Joseph, 274-5434, 277-2519; Jeff Furman, 272-6394; Larry Baum, 257-3524

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AMAZING ITHACA HISTORY

* March 13, 1938: Nate Tobey delivers from his orchard APPLES TWO YEARS OLD, perfectly edible.
* March 14, 1940: Freak THUNDERLESS LIGHTNING caused by "lack of vacuum in the atmosphere."
* March 15, 1954: Residents of Cayuga Heights meet to condemn PLAN B for construction of four-lane Rte 13 through the middle of their village. Opponents claimed there was no need for such a road & that it would cuase "undesirable developments" even if located in Lansing.
* March 16, 1966: LARGEST GLOBE in County is installed at Ithaca College, names 20,000 places on earth.
* March 17, 1964: $3,500 VIOLIN, stolen from Sheila Statman reappears for sale for $70 at a local store.
* March 18, 1880: W. C. deder of Ulysses plants 1/2 acre of SUGAR CANE. He harvested enough to produce 65 gallons of syrup.
* March 19, 1951: FIRST TV SCHEDULE published in local paper. Channel 12 shows Kukla, Fran & Ollie.
* March 20, 1878: Morgan SILVER DOLLARS first circulated here.

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YOUR LETTERS

"I would like to be added to the list to receive this excellent resource. Thank you very much." --S. Rakow
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---[re: "ITHACA" DOMAINS]: -"How about adding http://www.ithacabirthgroup.org --Gail B.
---"How about ithacaNHS.org Ithaca Neighborhood Housing Services." --Sue C. Perlgut
---"I didn't see the website for St. Paul's United Methodist Church stpaulsithaca.org Thanks in advance for adding us to your list!" --Marilou Slattery
--And ithacabirthgroup.org & ithacashowsyndicate.org & ithacacommunityorchestra.org & ithaca.coop
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"I did a scan for "Ithaca" domains you may have missed. I tried to screen out non-local sites as well as bogus portals that really have little or nothing to do w/ Ithaca. "I do not claim that this list is comprehensive (it almost certainly is not). Also, I didn't scrupulously check for overlap with your list--there may be some duplicates. Anyway, it was an interesting exercise." --Rich Entlich
---[REPLY] Thanks for sending 45 new additional 'Ithaca' domains. Now 105 are linked from archive.030225.html#ithacadomains
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"I was looking for some volunteer opportunities in the town. So it would be nice if this newsletter carried such announcements & opportunities." --Meena
---[REPLY] See volunteertompkins.org
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"Do you know of a DIGITAL camera club here in Ithaca.....I am looking for their phone number or a members phone number." --Amy Bowden ---[REPLY] Contact [email protected]
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"I wish that many who are anti-war would take on Mother Teresa's attitude..."Don't ask me to go to an anti-war rally, but to come to a peace rally," to me that means sometimes war is necessary (I am morally against violence and guns) to achieve peace by stopping those like Hitler. Does anyone ask what the Kurdistan people want? On NPR , they want the Americans there...they know what it's like to have biological chemicals used to kill thousands of them...how easily we forget, when it comes to only thinking of only America's needs for education, hospitals, etc. My father was German & came to America to fight against his own country in WWII... he knows the price of freedom is great." --Dianea Kohl
---[REPLY] Many veterans are particularly against the U.S. attack, which massacres millions (by bombing, embargo, destruction of food & water) for the sins of their dictator. Loyalty to veterans is not proven by sending their children to kill & die, wherever the President points the flag.
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"Thanks for your service to the community! Your newsletter & the one from the Alternatives Federal Credit Union are the only electronic newsletters I read. You are doing a great job." --M.K.
---[REPLY] Thanks! Donations for this work are welcome at Box 365, Ithaca 14851.
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"Thanks for the Wal-Mart/Ithaca info-- the railroad bit is especially encouraging, given that in 9 mo Cohen will be gone. (I read Wetmore's pamphlet-- great stuff! It's interesting to learn that these judges are right-wing. 'Ithaca Politics for Dummies' is needed.
---"The six-point traffic plan sucks. The plan to widen Spencer St seems especially insane; a priori, that would seem impossible from an engineering standpoint. I guess, in a sense, it is: I hear the plan involves destroying two houses. So obviously the important thing is to get an anti-sprawl mayor this year. Which good people are running? I'm interested in doing some campaign work." --b
---[REPLY] Thanks. This newsletter will announce candidacies & connect to campaigns.
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"I hate to tell you this but the bridge widening over Six-Mile Creek is a done deal. NYSDoT has no objections to the project because it is being payed for by Ithaca's taxpayers. Wal-Mart could be open for business by as early as July along with its companion store - Lowes. Actually I can't understand your distaste for the company. Wal-Mart is a good neighbor who supports the local community & provides merchandise at a less expensive price. Wal-Mart usually seeks a 20% profit unlike other store such as Wegmens who operate at double that profit margin & then there's the Mom & Pop store that operate at something like 50%. The Mom & Pop stores are the real villians here. Whats so bad about keeping prices low so the average Joe can afford them?" --Tex
---[REPLY] Wal-Mart has been found to increase taxes & traffic while reducing job base
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"What's up with the piece on the graffiti? Giving the perpetrators a free pass based on the content of their scrawls [on the Seneca Street Parking ramp] is, IMHO, a mistake. Bad behavior is bad behavior, regardless of how worthy you think the motive or message is, a lesson that the Bush administration needs to learn. By loosely endorsing the grafitti, you stand to alienate many potential allies in much the same manner as the Commander-in-Thief. There's obviously no comparison between threatening to start a war & scrawling graffiti, but they're both poor ways to win hearts & minds." --Jim Houghton
---[REPLY] I like graffiti, especially on huge grey walls that themselves vandalized an historic building. Democracy Wall now has pro-war scrawls on it as well.
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[re: Wegman's prohibition of anti-war tag on Meadowsweet Yogurt]: "Other ways to deal with stores like Wegmans: on the Meadowsweet issue it is possible to conduct a BUYcott. Everyone can make a point to stop in & buy their favorite flavor of Meadowsweet yogurt. When they run out, as they surely will if a buycott is conducted, then everyone needs to make a specific request. I haven't bought yogurt in probably five years, but I did tonight. Also, everyone needs to be sure not to leave the yogurt case without leaving behind a colorful antiwar flyer. Handmade is good. No War On Iraq. In fact there are lots of wonderful places to leave such flyers all over such stores. All the big box display racks beg for meaning. This is an action that takes no coordination. In fact, its better if no one person tries to do too much in any one store. The main thing is that many people do it and keep doing it. The yogurt section of Wegman's should never be without an antiwar flyer!" --Howard Engelskirchen
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"It's been great to have our Meadowsweet yogurt fly off the [Wegman's] shelves this week-- this in fact creates serious difficulty for us! 0We milk just the right number of cows to produce the amount of yogurt we regularly sell in a week & then have no more yogurt until the next week! So if we deliver to the stores on Friday, the shelf is empty by Monday. So my suggestion is: If you like our yogurt, by all means keep buying it (growth in sales long term would be great). But if you're just buying our yoghurt to support us, maybe you could send the money to Moveon.org for us instead! That's the cause we REALLY want to promote!
---"Lastly, how about re-directing the feedback to the Journal instead of to Wegmans. The 3/5 edition had a bad editorial on politics & shopping, claiming we need to keep 'politics' out of shopping so folks can shop in 'peace.'
---"1. What is politics anyway? Is "United We Stand" milk political? Is irradiated meat? Disney movies? Cereal boxes plastered with American flags?
---"2. What is offensive to one may not be to another, & aren't individuals responsible for choosing to be offended? How can a notice that is purely informational - an announcement of a march, be offensive.
---"3. Those labels are not political "slogans" as everyone is saying, but informational notices for those who would already be interested in going to the march! Is information offensive?
---"4. Can peace be offensive? War is definitely offensive, but peace? Threatening, yes, but offensive?" --Barb & Steve Smith & family
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"We've been discussing car sharing in the overall context of reducing car use. I found the web site has a lot of useful information in the topic, including studies, data, etc." --Fernando DeAragon
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"Paul...where do I get some of the "No War on Iraq" yard signs seen around town?" --Irma Padamsee
---[REPLY] Autumn Leaves Used Books, 115 The Commons. Requested donation is $3.00. HOURS accepted.
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"YL80" wins gift certificate to Toko Imports. Reply w/mailing address by 4/1 to claim.
"DA23" wins gift certificate to Surya Incense. Reply w/mailing address by 4/1 to claim.
"IMAGINE" wins gift certificate to Dinosaur Dry Goods. Reply w/mailing address by 4/1 to claim.

"TrueMajority has started a campaign to wear blue ribbons to protest against the war. They are easy to make, or can be ordered 250 for $15. I also bought some blue flagging tape from Agway to tie blue ribbons to my car antenna. It would be great if you could include this info in your newsletter. Let's turn Ithaca into a sea of blue!" --Susanne

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PESTICIDE LAW AFFECTS RETAILERS, APPLICATORS, HOMEOWNERS
Tompkins County residents now have a legal right [Neighborhood Notification Law] to be informed when lawn & landscape pesticides are being sprayed. Commercial lawn applicators must notify adjacent properties of proposed pesticide application 48 hours prior. Retailers selling general-use pesticides for lawn & landscape applications must post signs close to product display. Homeowners who apply pesticides themselves must post visual notification markers along the perimeter of treated areas over 100ft2. Law does not apply to farm applications of pesticides, to pesticide applications on public lands, or to golf courses. Applies to sprayed materials, not granular. Meeting 3/25, 8:30pm: Understanding the Neighborhood Notification Law. Meeting 4/9: Low Maintenance Lawn Care w/out pesticide, both at Cooperative Extension, 615 Willow Ave. 272-2292.

MEET THE POLICE: "THERE IS NO US AND THEM. IT'S ALL US."
These community events are organized by local residents & are open to everyone 16 yrs+. Ilonka 273-1779 to register for one of these: * 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.
---"I don't want to be scared by the police in my town." (Ithaca Resident)
---"I wish people wouldn't look the other way when I walk by." (Police Officer)

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I.I.C.W.C. COMMUNITY MEETING 3/18, 7:00pm Public Library: Christine Sanchirico of the Ithaca Breast Cancer Alliance speaks. Also, we will explore how a community-based wellness center can assist those individuals to explore treatment options. Discuss Healing Arts Directory & 5/3 Healing Arts Fair

"LINDASLAT" wins gift certificate to The Yoga Corner. Reply w/mailing address by 4/1 to claim.
"MEGXCORE" wins gift certificate to Cinemapolis/FCP. Reply w/mailing address by 4/1 to claim.
"RAPHAEL_RAPHAEL" wins gift certificate to Sparrow's. Reply w/mailing address by 4/1 to claim.
"W_IRAKOZE" wins gift certificate to White Lotus Home. Reply w/mailing address by 4/1 to claim.

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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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