Regional blood service reports acute shortage, Red Cross says
The New York-Penn Blood Service, the blood collection headquarters for Tompkins County, reports an acute blood shortage in our region.
As of Oct. 24, the Tompkins County Red Cross was put on medical alert and told that it would have to collect an additional 400 units of blood by January to increase our local blood supply.
There are major shortages of the following blood types: O-, O+, B+ and B-. There is only a one day supply of Type O-. This means that people needing Type O- will have to be in critical condition to receive it.
The following is a listing of upcoming Blood Drive locations and times. Call (800) GIVE-LIFE (448-3543) to schedule an appointment.
* 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Friday, Nov. 21, Ithaca High School, 1401 N. Cayuga St., Ithaca
* 8:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 22, Lansing United Methodist Church, 32 Brickyard Road, Lansing.
Library, Cornell present lecture on Georgia, Russia
The Tompkins County Public Library and the Institute for European Studies at Cornell University will host a presentation by Dr. Iago Gocheleishvili entitled “The Russian Invasion of Georgia: Protecting Citizens or Changing Regime”, from 6-7 p.m. today in the Library's Borg Warner Community Meeting Room East, 101 E. Green St.
Gocheleishvili is a lecturer in the Near Eastern Studies Department at Cornell University with expertise in Caucasian studies, ethno-politics and ethno-based conflict in contemporary Caucasus. He will discuss the conflict in the South Ossetian province of Georgia, its causes, outcomes, what it means for regional (Georgia, Russia) and global (USA, EU) politics. The presentation will include theories and opinions that have shaped the discussion of the conflict.
Hospicare programs help with grief at holidays
Hospicare and Palliative Care Services of Tompkins County offers the following supportive programs for those facing grief after the death of a loved one:
* “Grief — Coping with the Holidays.” Noon to 1 p.m. today. A DVD presentation followed by discussion about healing techniques and activities designed to support those who are grieving during what can be a difficult time of year. Participants are invited to bring a brown bag lunch. Beverages will be provided. Registration is appreciated but not required.
* “Seasons of Remembrance: Pizza Supper and Craft Night.” 5-7 p.m. Dec. 4. For children of all ages. $10 suggested donation per family to cover cost of supplies. To best serve participants, registration is required by December 1.
* “Light the Landscape.” 5:30 p.m. Dec. 9. A lighting ceremony to remember loved ones who have died.
All programs will be held at the Nina K. Miller Hospicare Center, 172 East King Road, Ithaca. Contact Donna George at 272-0212 or dgeorge@hospicare.org.
Ithaca's city forester speaks this week at Ulysses library
Ithaca City Forester Andy Hillman will talk on “Urban Forestry in the First Urban Century” at 7:30 p.m. today in the Ulysses Philomathic Library Melvin Room as the next speaker in the library's Thursday evening speaker series. The talk is free and open to the public. The library is at 74 E. Main St, Trumansburg.
Hillman is the past president of the Society of Municipal Arborists and has been involved in developing national standards for tree care performance. He received the organization's Award of Merit, the society's highest award, given for his dedication in developing practical applications for bare-root tree planting and structural soil.
City forester since 1995, Andy is proud of Ithaca's urban forestry program. In 2007 the City received the America in Bloom J. Frank Schmidt & Son Co. Urban Forestry Award. Ithaca has received more consecutive National Arbor Day Foundation Growth Awards than any city in New York. The Parks and Forestry Section has received an unprecedented three New York Conference of Mayors Local Government Achievement Awards. The City of Ithaca works closely with New York State Electric and Gas on issues related to trees and utilities, and Hillman works with researchers at Cornell University's Urban Forestry Research Group and the U.S. Department of Agriculture among others, to develop trees suitable for the urban environment, and techniques for planting and maintaining them.
Ithaca schools donate food to Salvation Army
Two Ithaca area schools will be collecting non-perishable food for the holidays and donating it to The Salvation Army for the holiday food baskets.
The Dewitt Middle School will be giving close to 4,000 non-perishable items at the 9 a.m. school assembly on Friday, Nov. 21. Kelly Horrocks is the Coordinator for this event. Captain Tracy Hughes and Adam Mack, officer intern, will be at the school to accept these donations. The Salvation Army provides Christmas assistance to over 450 families each year. The food collections provide a family with items to supply a good holiday meal for the entire family for over three days. This event has been a school event for over 25 years to benefit the needy.
The Cayuga Heights Elementary School will be giving close to 1,500 pounds of non-perishable items at the 9:10 a.m. school assembly on Friday, Dec. 5. Maria Connell, the student council staff representative is coordinating the effort.
Workshop examines Alzheimer's behavior
A free workshop, Alzheimer's: Managing Challenging Behaviors, is planned for noon to 1:30 p.m. Friday, Nov. 21, at the Cooperative Extension Education Center, 615 Willow Ave. It is intended for persons caring for a relative or friend who has Alzheimer's disease or a related disorder. However, all are welcome.
Michael Massurin, of the CNY Chapter of the Alzheimer's Association, will discuss what causes dementia-related behaviors like suspicion, repetition, sundowning, agitation and aggression and how to respond to these behaviors.
Participants may bring a brown bag lunch; beverages will be provided. To register, call the Tompkins County Office for the Aging, 274-5492.
New York Farm Bureau sponsors scholarships
The New York Farm Bureau is encouraging high school seniors who have been involved with agriculture and plan on continuing studies in this field to apply for the New York Farm Bureau Agricultural Youth Scholarship sponsored by the New York Farm Bureau Promotion and Education Committee. Scholarship awards are $1,500 for first place $1,200 for second and $1,000 for third place. The first place winner will be invited to present their essay at the annual Spring Conference.
Students applying must have a family Farm Bureau membership or a Student Farm Bureau membership (a membership application may be included with scholarship enclosures). Students are required to submit a brief essay answering the question, “If you had the power to change something in your community or on your farm, what would you change and why?”
The application submission deadline is Friday, Nov. 21. To nominate someone for the scholarship or to request an application, call (800) 342-4143 or visit www.nyfb.org.
Holiday book/bake sale
Covenant Love Community School invites the public to its annual Holiday Book Sale with a Bake Sale/Pie Sale. Proceeds from the Book Sale will benefit the CLCS Library. Proceeds from the Bake/Pie Sale will benefit the eighth-grade class.
The sale will be open from: 3-8 p.m. Friday, Nov. 21; 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 22; 1-5 p.m. on Sunday, Nov. 23; and 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday, Nov. 24 at Covenant Love Community School, 1768 Dryden Road (Route 13), Freeville. All titles will be at discounted prices. Samples of all books will be available for review. Books will be ordered, with delivery in early December.
— Cathy Wakeman, Correspondent
Open house at new village office
The Village of Groton plans an Open House at the new Village Office, 143 Cortland St., from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 22. Refreshments will be served. Village electric customers attending can sign up for a drawing for a $25 credit on their electric bill.
Volunteers sought to sew items for Hospicare
Volunteers are invited to sew needed items from recycled fabric for Hospicare and Palliative Care Services of Tompkins County, from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 22, hosted by SewGreen, at its classroom in the Women's Community Building, 100 W Seneca St.
Hospicare needs large drawstring bags, placemats and napkins for its residential program. All materials will be supplied from SewGreen's reuse program. Volunteers may bring their own sewing machines or use the ones in the classroom. Some sewing experience is requested. For more information, contact SewGreen Coordinator Wendy Skinner, 277-7611; coord@sew-green.org.
Sciencenter puts on final clearance at Babbage's Basement
Babbage's Basement and Einstein's Attic, the Sciencenter's computer and scientific equipment rescue, restoration and resale programs will hold a final two-day clearance sale on the weekend of Nov. 22 and 23 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. each day, at Building 24 of Emerson Power Transmission Corp, at 620 South Aurora St. in Ithaca. All proceeds from the sale will benefit the Sciencenter.
Customers will find deep discounts on tested and untested PC and Macintosh desktop computers, monitors, printers, scanners, disk drives, cables and other peripherals. Other items for sale will include DVD players, VCRs, photographic gear, desks, filing cabinets, office chairs, assorted scientific and laboratory equipment, and much more. Limited arrangements can be made to tag larger items for pick-up after the sale. After 1 p.m. on Nov. 23, all remaining items will be offered at $3 per armload or $15 per vehicle load.
Babbage's Basement and Einstein's Attic will close permanently following this two-day clearance sale. The Sciencenter gratefully acknowledges the donation of free space from Emerson Power Transmission that was used for Babbage's Basement's processing and retail operations. The Emerson building that housed Babbage's Basement and Einstein's Attic is being repurposed.
Red Cross hosts babysitter training
The Tompkins County American Red Cross will hold a weekend Babysitter's Training class from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 22. The course is ideal for current and future babysitters, and teaches decision-making skills and solutions for real-life problems, as well as first aid and basic care skills.
Registration is required. For more information, call 274-1900 ext. 14.
Underwater-vehicle team shows off new entrant
The Cornell University Autonomous Underwater Vehicle Team, formed in 1998 to build and design an autonomous underwater vehicle for an engineering competition, will celebrate its 10th anniversary by showing off its 2008 competition vehicle and give slideshows on its history from 5:30-7:30 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 23 at Teagle Pool.
The team was founded by Serguei Vassilvitskii, Nidhi Kalra, Jack Chuang, and Walter Chang under the supervision of electrical engineering professor Kevin Kornegay. The team's original name was the BRAIN team, for Big Red Artificial Intelligence Navigator. In 2002, the team took on its current name. In the past 10 years, the team has received attention from various industry members, won the 2003 competition and received seven consecutive technical design awards. More information on the team's anniversary celebration is at www.cuauv.org.
Free support group for grandparents raising children
The Family & Children's Service of Ithaca is offering a free educational support group for grandparents who are raising their preschool & school-aged grandchildren. Facilitated by Family & Children's Service mental health professionals, the group addresses challenges, issues, and solutions for grandparents. The group meets from 6:30-8:30 p.m. on the fourth Monday of each month at Family & Children Service's new State Street location, 127 W. State St. The remaining 2008 meetings are: Nov. 24 and Dec. 22.
Sessions do not require a mental health diagnosis for participation, nor do participants have to be clients at the agency. Childcare can be arranged upon request and is offered at no charge. Refreshments are provided. To register, call Family & Children's Services at 273-7494.
TCAT sets Thanksgiving schedule
TCAT announces the following changes to the bus schedule for the Thanksgiving holiday:
Wednesday, Nov. 26: normal day and night service.
Thursday, Nov. 27, Thanksgiving Day: No service.
Friday, Nov. 28: Amodified Saturday Service. TCAT Routes 12, 85, 92 and 93 will not be operating. All other routes that normally operate on Saturday will be in service. In additional, TCAT will operate TCAT Route 50 and a modified Route 10 service. The route 10 service will begin at 7:30 a.m. at Seneca Street with service every 20 minutes at :30, :50, and :10 past the hour with the last bus leaving Seneca Street at 6:50 p.m.
Saturday, Nov. 29: normal Saturday schedule.
For more information call 277-RIDE (7433) or visit www.tcatbus.com.
Library hosts antique maps exhibit
The Tompkins County Public Library announces its latest exhibit: “Antique Maps in Books and Films: Historic Urban Plans at the Library”.
This exhibit, which is on display in the Avenue of the Friends, features maps provided by Historic Urban Plans, an Ithaca-based company that has published reproductions of antique world maps, city plans, panoramic views and sea charts since 1964. The Library exhibit is being held in recognition of the company's 45th anniversary. It will illustrate the range of maps available from the company and highlight the use of city maps and views in books and films. Some of the books and films on display can also be found in the Library's collection.
This exhibit will be on display through Nov. 30.
Lakeside hosts annual Holiday Bazaar
Lakeside Nursing & Rehabilitation Center will host their annual Holiday Bazaar from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Friday and Saturday, Dec. 5 and 6, at Lakeside, 1229 Trumansburg Road.
Crafts, decorations, candles, jewelry, baked goods, floral arrangements, gift baskets, quilting, painted glass, woodworking, handmade soap and much more will be available for purchase. Lunch will also be available.
More vendors are wanted. Contact Kathy at 279-9452 or kmslodi@yahoo.com for more information.
Resource center offers insight into long term care insurance
New York state has established “Long Term Care Insurance Resource Centers” in every county to help consumers get impartial help in understanding the complex topic of long-term care financing and long-term care insurance.
Monthly group seminars and individual counseling are offered free of charge to help people decide whether to purchase insurance during their working years (typically ages 45-65). Lifelong and the Tompkins County Office for the Aging are cooperating to offer this service in Tompkins County.
The schedule of workshops is as follows:
* 8-9 a.m. Friday, Dec. 5 at Lifelong, 119 W. Court St. (includes free continental breakfast starting at 7:45 a.m.)
To register for any of the seminars or to schedule an individual counseling session, call Lifelong at 273-1511 or the Office for the Aging at 274-5492.
Alternative Gift Fair supports not-for-profits
For the fifth year in a row, the Ithaca Alternative Gift Fair will offer holiday shoppers a chance to buy gifts that support local charitable organizations. The Fair will be held from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 6, at the First Presbyterian Church, 315 North Cayuga Street in Ithaca. Thirty-one organizations will participate.
The gifts, which range in price from $5 to an unlimited donation, include items such as healthy meals for school children who may otherwise go without, materials for affordable housing, support for community discussions on racism, shelter for abandoned pets, and many gifts that support at-risk youth and families in our communities. All of the money earned at the fair goes to the participating organizations.
For two weeks following the event, shoppers who cannot attend the fair can purchase gifts online. For descriptions of the gifts and organizations, visit www.ithacaaltgiftfair.org. The Ithaca Alternative Gift Fair is sponsored by the CRESP Center for Transformative Action and Tompkins Community Action, with support from Alternatives Federal Credit Union.
Cops, Kids & Toys accepts donations through Dec. 9
Cops, Kids & Toys is a program that began in the early 1980s to help families who were unable to provide holiday gifts for their children. The first year the program helped four families. The program continues with that same goal and has been able to help more families in Tompkins County over the years.
Cops, Kids & Toys volunteers work throughout the year raising funds.
Monetary donations are accepted anytime at any county law enforcement agency and checks should be made out to Cops, Kids and Toys Inc. Monetary donations may also be mailed to George Sutfin, Cornell Police, G-2 Barton Hall, Ithaca, NY 14853.
Toy collection boxes are distributed throughout the county and one will be located at The Journal. All are welcome to bring in new, unwrapped toys for the children in the community who are in need.
Donation boxes will be collected Tuesday, Dec. 9.
Empire State College has final information session
The final information session on programs at the Ithaca branch of Empire State College is planned during the coming weeks.
The college offers individualized degrees and programs designed by students and the faculty mentors. The college also gives college credits for life and work experience. The session will be held at noon Wednesday, Dec. 10 in Room 501 in the Tompkins Cortland Community College Extension Building, 118 N. Tioga St., on The Commons.
For more information, contact Christiane Warren at 273-4536 or Christiane.Warren@esc.edu.
Applications for Small Comforts accepted through December
The Small Comforts Foundation is accepting applications for the Fall 2008 Gifts and Assistance Program.
Any resident of Tompkins County or their families may apply to Small Comforts for an item that would raise the morale and quality of life for a person living with chronic illness. The value of the item should not exceed $250. Examples of previous gifts awarded to recipients are Rollator walkers, hearing devices, air conditioners, mattresses, washing machines, wheelchairs and various personal care items.
Applications may be downloaded at www.smallcomforts.org or obtained by calling Candy Cima at 257-6059. All applications must be postmarked by Dec. 31 and recipients will be notified by Feb. 1, 2009.
Youth Bureau plans 60th anniversary celebration
The Ithaca Youth Bureau will celebrate 60 years of service to the Ithaca community on Jan. 28 by hosting an evening at the Historic State Theatre in Downtown Ithaca featuring internationally acclaimed musician Samite of Uganda and the Honorable Mayor Cory Booker of Newark, N.J.
A community-wide celebration of the past and future work of the Youth Bureau, the evening's theme will be Bridging Racial and Cultural Divides and the Role that Youth Play. The event begins at 7 p.m. Tickets went on sale Friday and cost $10. For more information or to purchase tickets please visit stateofithaca.com or call 277-8283.
Nominations sought for volunteer awards
Nominations are now being accepted for Tompkins Trust Company's 2009 Award for Excellence, an annual program that recognizes outstanding individuals and volunteer-based not-for-profit organizations for their contributions in Tompkins County. Nominees may be a group of individuals presenting a key volunteer element of a local not-for-profit organization or local individuals performing humanitarian community service. Candidates for the award should be those who generously volunteer time and effort on an ongoing basis to activities that help others in Tompkins County. They should make a significant contribution towards improving the quality of life for others either as a major component of a non-profit organization or through individual efforts. For more information about this award or to obtain a nomination form, contact Sue Lason of the bank's Sales and Marketing Department at 274-2052, or send an email to: slason@tompkinstrust.com. Nominations must be received by Jan. 31.
Lab of Ornithology offers weekend bird walks
As part of its free “Weekend FeederWatch” the Cornell Lab of Ornithology is offering a guided bird walk at 1 p.m. every Saturday and Sunday through April 3. All are invited to come learn about winter birds and how to contribute sightings to Project FeederWatch. Staff will be available from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. to help with bird identification. Some binoculars will also be available for loan. The Lab is open from 9:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, and 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday and is located at 59 Sapsucker Woods Road.
Volunteer snow shovelers sought
With winter coming upon us, the Tompkins County Office for the Aging is updating its listing of snow shovelers. Deep snow and icy sidewalks are dangerous for everyone but especially for senior citizens. Many seniors are not able to remove the snow from their sidewalks without assistance.
If you are interested in assisting seniors by shoveling or plowing, on either a paid or volunteer basis, please call the Tompkins County Office for the Aging at 274-5482. If your name was listed last year, and you would like to be listed again, please notify us.
Salvation Army seeks volunteer bellringers
The Salvation Army is seeking volunteers for its annual bellringing effort as it has experienced a 15 percent increase in requests for assistance and an extremely busy soup kitchen, local director Major Carl Ruthberg announced.
To ring the bells, volunteers can call the local Salvation Army directly at 273-2400. They can also call The Red Kettle Center, 24/7 at (877) 764-7259 or go on-line to www.redkettles.org.
County Board of Health seeks applicants for vacancy
The Tompkins County Board of Health anticipates a vacancy beginning Jan. 1. The vacancy is for a consumer (non-physician) seat. A consumer can be someone who has received Health Department Services or who is interested in public health activities.
The BOH is a volunteer board that serves as the governing body for the Health Department. Board members serve six year terms. The Board meets on the second Tuesday of each month, at noon at the Health Department offices, 401 Harris B. Dates Drive.
Applicants must complete an Advisory Board Application form that can be picked up at the County Legislature office, County Courthouse, 320 N. Tioga St. or can be downloaded from www.tompkins-co.org/legislature/advisory/resume.pdf. Candidates will be approved by both the BOH and the County Legislature. Women and persons of color are encouraged to apply. For more information, contact Alice Cole at 274-6674. To obtain an application form, contact the Legislature office at 274-5434.
Free Clinic partners with students, faculty of IC
To help the Ithaca Free Clinic facilitate health care to uninsured residents of Tompkins County, occupational therapy students and faculty from Ithaca College are providing their services to IFC clients. The new partnership began this fall.
The services will include:
* range of motion exercises to increase functional abilities,
* creating customized splints,
* engaging clients in meaningful activities (cooking, home management, self care, leisure),
* education in compensatory strategies to help people participate in daily activities (adaptive equipment, energy conservation strategies, joint protection techniques, body mechanics),
* community re-entry skills such as seeking employment, managing a bus schedule, grocery shopping, and budgeting.
The occupational therapy program in the college's School of Health Sciences and Human Performance is a five-year program leading to a bachelor's degree in Occupational Science and a master's degree in Occupational Therapy.
Since opening at 225 S. Fulton St. in 2006, the Ithaca Free Clinic has been offering conventional medical and chiropractic care, nutritional counseling, and holistic treatments such as acupuncture, herbal medicine, and massage therapy. These services are free to residents of Tompkins County without medical insurance.
Tops to sell E-Z Pass
Tops Friendly Markets will start distributing New York State Thruway E-Z Pass tags through the E-ZPass On-the-Go program, the Thruway Authority announced.
As an approved retailer, Tops will be selling E-ZPass On-the-Go tags at more than 70 of its supermarkets in New York State.
Upon purchasing an On-the-Go tag, customers will receive the full $25 towards their E-ZPass account. E-ZPass provides a savings of 5 percent off the cash rate on all Thruway tolls for passenger vehicles. On-the-Go tags are only available for passenger vehicle use. Customers must register the On-the-Go tag within the first 48 hours of using the tag.
Customers with E-ZPass are reminded that in addition to receiving a 5 percent discount on tolls, they can also sign up for a number of E-ZPass commuter discount plans. Additional information about all of the E-ZPass Discount Plans is available online at www.thruway.state.ny.us/ezpass/discount.html.
Youth Bureau employment service has teen workers
Those in need of help with yard work, baby sitting or other jobs may contact the Youth Employment Service at 273-8364.A program of the Ithaca Youth Bureau, YES is a referral network which can be useful for businesses or local residents with part-time work or one-time projects. YES has a pool of Teen Members who are ready to work after school and on the weekends.
Child Health Plus expands with lowered rates
Effective Sept. 1, children in families with annual incomes up to $70,000 for a family of three or $84,000 for family of four are eligible to obtain subsidized coverage under New York's Child Health Plus insurance program.
Child Health Plus provides free or reduced cost health insurance for uninsured children up to age 19. Families should not drop existing coverage for their children in order to enroll in Child Health Plus. Families who drop employer-sponsored coverage in order to sign up for Child Health Plus will be subject to a six-month waiting period. There are some exceptions to the waiting period.
How much a family pays for insurance through Child Health Plus depends on their income and the number of people in their household. The health insurance is free for children in families with lowest incomes. Other families pay a monthly premium ranging from $9 - $40 per child per month, depending on income. Families whose incomes exceed 400 percent of the federal poverty level ($70,000 for a family of three; $84,000 for a family of four) can still buy in to Child Health Plus by paying the full monthly premium of $138 or $179, which is still more affordable than many insurance plans available on the private market.
For information about what premium that rate your family may qualify for and how to enroll in Child Health Plus locally, contact the Get Covered Info Line at 272-9331.
Community Police Board open to new members
Ithaca's Community Police Board is seeking new volunteer members.
The board began a decade or more ago to establish a review system of the police force. It started with board members taking complaints about officers' actions and reactions in interchanges with citizens, but has grown to include compliments and commendations, too.
Ithacans who have lived in the city at least two years are eligible to join. The board needs four adults and one youth 16-18 years old.
For an application, call 275- 0799 or go to the City Clerk's office at City Hall, 108 E. Green St.
Support group for abused girls formed
CASA, a support group for teenage girls age 13-18 who have experienced child sexual abuse, sexual assault, dating violence, or other abuse in their lives, is welcoming new members. The group is appropriate whether the abuse occurred recently or in the past, by an adult or a peer. CASA is a joint project of the Advocacy Center and Family and Children's Services. For more information about CASA call Bonni Georgia at 277-3203or Pat Karr Segal at 273-7495.
Program assists in food stamp application
The Nutrition Outreach and Education Program at Catholic Charities has been selected as the community partner with Tompkins County Department of Social Services to implement the food stamp online application (e-app) pilot project. To find out if you might be eligible for Food Stamps, call Ellin Corrigan, program coordinator, at 272-5062, ext. 21.
City has mini-grants for bike racks
To encourage property owners to provide new, or improved, bicycle parking facilities, the City of Ithaca's Engineering Office is awarding five mini-grants of $200 each to help offset the purchase price of bicycle racks. The first five successful applicants will receive the grants.
Criteria:
The bicycle rack(s) must be available to the general public, be installed on public (City of Ithaca) property, and must be in a convenient and highly visible location.
The bicycle rack(s) should be of the “inverted-U” design, though other designs (especially artistic designs) may be considered. Racks should support the bicycle frame in more than one location. Racks that support bicycles by the wheel, rather than the frame, will not be permitted.
The location of the bicycle parking area(s) may not encroach into pedestrian, bicycle, or motor vehicle travel ways.
For additional program details or to request an application, contact Kent Johnson at 274-6528 or at kjohnson@cityofithaca.org. Printed copies of the grant applications may be picked up in the City of Ithaca Engineering Office at City Hall, Room 202, 108 E. Green St.
Schools continue sneaker recycling
The Recycle Sneaker Initiative continues in the Lansing schools. Sneakers can be dropped at any of the schools or in the foyer of the Recreation Department. Simply make sure that sneakers are dry with no metal. The first drop off after four weeks of collection netted about 60 pair. Check out the surfaces in Myers Park to see recycled sneakers in action.
Updated gas leasing information sheet available digitally
A newly updated, 10-page information sheet “Gas Exploration and Leasing on Private Land: Tips and Guidance for New York Landowners” is available as a PDF on the Tompkins County Cooperative Extension Web site, www.ccetompkins.org.
The sheet outlines what the gas resource is, why landowners may be contacted, how a gas lease works and what to consider when making decisions about gas leasing.
A DVD of a workshop on Natural Gas Exploration and Leasing is available for loan or purchase. For more information about the DVD, contact Debbie Teeter at 272-2292or e-mail dlt22@cornell.edu.
Volunteers needed to help homebound senior citizens
The Tompkins County Office for the Aging is seeking volunteers to assist homebound senior citizens through the Project CARE Program.
Volunteers typically visit an individual once a week for about one to two hours, depending on need.
Needs may include companionship, assistance with laundry or light housekeeping, errands, grocery shopping, light yard work or respite for a caregiver. Respite might involve staying with the senior so the caregiver might go out or have some time off.
Volunteers should be good listeners and enjoy the company of seniors.
For more information, contact Trina Schickel at the Office for the Aging at 274-5491.
Lifelong to feature Scottish dancing Tuesday nights
Following a summer sabbatical, the Ithaca Scottish dancers plan to return to dancing in Ithaca.
There will be reels, jigs and strathspeys from 7:30-9:30 p.m. every first, third and fifth Tuesday at Lifelong on Court St. Admission costs $3.
All dances are taught, and beginners are welcome. Partners are not required, but soft shoes are.
Advisory committee for T-burg schools needs members
The Citizens Advisory Committee of the Trumansburg Central School District is seeking district community members to serve.
The district superintendent appoints volunteers, who serve in an advisory capacity only. The group meets with the superintendent approximately once a month with the goal of improving communications between the public and the district.
Community members who have an interest in learning more about school operations and funding and who desire to contribute to the successful education of our children should contact Superintendent Paula Hurley at 387-7441 ext. 421or PHurley@tburg.k12.ny.us. For more information, contact co-chairpersons, Ron Mac Lean at gayleron@twcny.rr.com or Mary Newhart at mjn3@cornell.edu.
Thrift shop hours are Tuesdays, Saturdays
The J-Ville Jazzy Jumble Thrift Shop, located in the Jacksonville Church on Route 96, will be open from 4:30-7:30 p.m. Tuesdays and from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturdays.
All are welcome to visit and see all the good used items and clean used clothing the shop offers at reasonable prices.
Energy saving tips from NYSEG
NYSEG and RG&E are advising customers to use energy wisely to help manage electricity bills and minimize the stress of high demand for power that is put on electricity delivery systems. The companies recommend these energy saving tips:
* Keep curtains and blinds closed on hot, sunny days.
* During the hottest parts of the day close curtains and doors to keep out heat.
* Considering using fans (not air conditioners).
* When using air conditioners keep the thermostat at 78 degrees or higher.
* Turn off air conditioners when leaving the house.
* Turn off unused lights, TVs, computers and stereos
* Avoid cooking or baking during the hottest parts of the day.
* Hang laundry outside to dry (when the weather permits).
For more information visit www.nyseg.com or www.rge.com.
Town recruits for Planning Board
The Town of Ithaca has a vacancy on the Planning Board and is recruiting to fill the position.
Interested applicants must be town residents and have an active interest in participating in the town's planning process. Some knowledge of the application of municipal law or other rules and regulation is helpful, but not required.
The Planning Board consists of seven members appointed for seven year terms. The Planning Board reviews land use and development issues, approves subdivisions, site plans, and special requests.
Planning Board meetings are generally held at 7 p.m. the first and third Tuesday of the month. Those interested should send a letter of interest to the Town of Ithaca, Town Clerk, 215 N. Tioga St., Ithaca, NY 14850 or visit www.town.ithaca.ny.us.
RSVP seeks seniors to volunteer
The Retired and Senior Volunteer Program of Tompkins County (RSVP) is seeking senior volunteers to contribute their time and talents to not-for-profit agencies in Tompkins County.
RSVP helps volunteers identify service opportunities in more than 100 agencies. The agencies have a wide variety of needs from health insurance counselors to clerical assistance to food pantries to caring for abandoned animals to driving.
RSVP will match volunteers to opportunities of their skills and interests. RSVP is a federal program offering their service to individuals age 55 and older. For more information, call 273-1511 and ask for the RSVP office.
Lab of Ornithology seeks urban bird watchers
The public is invited to join the free, year-round “Celebrate Urban Birds” citizen science project from the Cornell Lab of Ornithology.
People of all ages and backgrounds participate in Celebrate Urban Birds through gardening, cultural activities and citizen-science. For the citizen-science part of the project, participants watch city birds for 10 minutes, check off 15 target species of birds, and send the information through the mail or the Internet to the Cornell Lab of Ornithology. Once enough data are gathered, scientists hope to learn more about how birds survive in cities and how they use urban green spaces such as parks, rooftop gardens, and even potted plants on balconies for food, resting sites, and shelter.
Individuals can participate on their own or through public events organized by local groups.
While supplies last, everyone who signs up will receive a Celebrate Urban Birds kit in English and Spanish with two colorful urban birds posters, educational materials about birds and urban greening, a data form, and a packet of sunflower seeds to plant in pots and gardens. More than 60,000 free kits have been distributed. For more information visit the Lab's Web site, www.birds.cornell.edu.
Tompkins Red Cross offers online CPR, First Aid classes
The Tompkins County Red Cross is offering online training in CPR and First Aid.
This computer-based training releases those interested from the classroom and offers a chance to learn lifesaving skills at one's own pace, with classes accessible any time of the day. The course will require a short classroom skill session for certification and is regularly scheduled during the week and weekends.
To sign up, visit www.tompkins-redcross.org or call 273-1900, ext 14.
Program offers free on-site voter registration to area groups
The Finger Lakes Independence Center's Voter Registration Outreach Program is offering free, on-site voter registration services to area not-for-profit organizations, schools and community groups.
Thanks to the Tompkins County Board of Elections, the program will provide the registration forms and assist anyone in filling one out. The registration form may be used to register to vote in any county in New York, to change one's name or address, or to enroll in a political party or change enrollment.
To register, a person must be a U.S. citizen. A person must be at least 18 years old by Dec. 31 of the year in which he or she files the registration form. A person must be at least 18 years of age to vote in an election. In addition, a person must not be in jail or on parole for a felony conviction. And, a person cannot claim the right to vote elsewhere.
The Voter Registration Outreach Program encourages people to participate in the democratic process and vote. For more information or to schedule an event, contact Teri Reinemann at 272-2433.
Scientific ‘cafes' meet monthly
Ithaca's Science Cabaret was inspired by the Café Scientifique movement, which started in Europe in the late 1990s and has spread rapidly.
Cafés Scientifiques are informal talks in bars, cafes and other public venues that give like-minded people a chance to discuss current and sometimes controversial topics in science. The Ithaca Science Cabaret meets in Ithaca one Tuesday a month at the Lost Dog Cafe on 112 South Cayuga St.
The Cabaret is organized by local professors, graduate students and members of the Ithaca community and is open to everyone. Children are welcome to attend, though not all topics may interest. Bring an appetite for food, drinks and knowledge. For more information e-mail sciencecafe@cornell.edu.
Extension seeks volunteers to teach money management
Cornell Cooperative Extension of Tompkins County is looking for volunteers to become Money Management Educators and work one-on-one with individuals and families.
Money Management Educators work with people interested in receiving individualized instruction on making the most of their financial resources. Volunteers complete a form and must consent to criminal background screening.
Applications are available at www.ccetompkins.org. For more information, contact Alexis Heath at 272-2292 or e-mail ach95@cornell.edu.
Thrift Shop open on Fridays, Saturdays
The Mecklenburg United Methodist Church, on Turnpike Road in Mecklenburg, is open from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Fridays and 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturdays.
The store sells clothing, household items, books, puzzles and other personal items.
Crisis service seeks volunteer counselors for hotline
Suicide Prevention and Crisis Service is seeking open-minded, compassionate persons as volunteer Crisisline Counselors. Excellent preparation and training is provided at no cost to develop the skills needed to become an effective counselor.
The Crisisline offers counseling, 24 hours a day, seven days a week, to callers who may be dealing with any personal problem, including anxiety, alcohol, family, school, sexuality, loneliness, depression and suicidal thoughts.
Call 272-1505, ext. 10, for more information.
Slaterville fire department needs EMTs, drivers
Slaterville Springs Ambulance and Fire Department in the Town of Caroline is in need of Emergency Medical Technicians (EMTs) and drivers.
Training is provided and the commitment is only a couple of days a month. Call Greg or Beth Harrington at 539-7193 for more information.
DEC urges state residents not to move firewood
The New York state Department of Environmental Conservation is continuing the “Don't Move Firewood” campaign that urges campers not to haul firewood from home to help prevent the unintentional spread of tree-killing pests.
Campers should buy firewood from sources near their campsites. New York's forests are under attack from numerous invasive exotic insect pests. The state has experienced chestnut blight, European gypsy moth, Dutch elm disease and beech bark disease, all with devastating results in the past years.
Recently, the DEC has discovered Asian long-horned beetles, hemlock wooly adelgids, pine shoot beetles and sirex wood wasps infesting urban and rural forests and killing thousands of trees.
Book club will focus on caregiving, aging
The Powerful Caregivers Marching Band Book Club invites caregivers to discuss areas of caregiving from 6:30-7:30 p.m. on the second Thursday of every month at the Beechtree Care Center, second floor conference room, 318 S. Albany St.
Fore more information, call Adrienne McNair at 266-0708.
Depression support group meets every Thursday
A depression support group meets from 5:30-7 p.m. Thursdays at the Finger Lakes Independence Center, 215 Fifth St.
The group is free, confidential and organized by people who have personal experience with depression. For information, call Larry Roberts at 272-2433 (v/TTY).
2-1-1 access now available on most cell and cable phones
2-1-1, the easy access number to dial for information and referrals to health, human and governmental services, can be reached through most cell phone providers and on Time Warner Cable phones.
Sprint, Nextel, AT&T Wireless, T-Mobile and Verizon Wireless cell phones can all now dial 2-1-1 and be connected with trained information and referral specialists who can help callers locate essential community services.
Anyone can also dial (877) 211-8667 if 2-1-1 doesn't work from their phone.
The 2-1-1 Finger Lakes Network provides area residents with information on finding health care, services for seniors, programs for people with disabilities, mental health services, legal assistance, addiction treatment, employment, transportation, day care and other community services.
Donate unused cell phones for soldiers to use
Cell phones for Soldiers and the Pak Mail Center at 907 Hanshaw Road invite the public to support the 150,000 men and women serving overseas by donating their unused cell phones.
Cell Phones for Soldiers recycles the phones and the proceeds are used to buy prepaid calling cards sent to soldiers to keep troops connected with their families.
For more information regarding the Cell Phones for Soldiers program visit www.cellphonesforsoldiers.com.
Weatherization program available for seniors with limited income
The Weatherization Referral and Assistance Program of the Tompkins County Office for the Aging helps senior citizens with energy related problems and home repairs. The program assists income eligible seniors in making energy efficient modifications to their homes.
The WRAP representative at the Tompkins County Office for the Aging can discuss and assess weatherization needs, and help develop a plan to meet those needs. Anyone who is age 60 and older, a full-time County resident, and of limited income are eligible of qualifying for the WRAP program. The income guidelines follow those of the Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP). For further details contact Gladys Brangman at the Tompkins County Office for the Aging 274-5487.
Advocacy Center offers support group for women
The Advocacy Center is offering a free ongoing support group for adult women who have experienced abuse. Women who have experienced sexual violence or abuse in a relationship will find a safe and supportive place to talk with others who have had similar experiences. To schedule an intake call the Advocacy Center at 277-3203.
Gadabout seeks new volunteer drivers
Gadabout Transportation Services is facing a shortage of volunteer drivers and is issuing a call to people to volunteer.
Gadabout is a not-for-profit agency that provides door-to-door transportation to people with disabilities and those over age 60 who live in Tompkins County. It relies heavily on volunteer drivers to keep the cost of service affordable.
Gadabout volunteers are asked to drive one morning or afternoon per week, and the agency works with them to accommodate their schedules. Gadabout also provides training and will pay for a volunteer driver's state-mandated CDL Class C license. Volunteers are encouraged to take Gadabout for a “test drive” before making a commitment.
Gadabout provides more than 60,000 one-way rides on an annual basis. Fares remain at $1.50 for one-way trips within the City of Ithaca and $2 for one-way trips across or outside the city limit. The fare has not increased since January 2004, due primarily to Gadabout's commitment to operating on a minimal budget and a reliance on volunteer drivers.
For more information about volunteering with Gadabout, call 273-1878.
Town seeks member for Conservation Board
The nine-member Town of Ithaca Conservation Board is seeking a new member.
The Conservation Board advises both the Town and Planning boards on matters of environmental protection and conservation and reviews development proposals that may affect open space or pose other environmental concerns. Applicants must be Town of Ithaca residents and be interested in playing an active role in the town's planning and advisory process as it relates to environmental protection.
Members serve two-year terms that are renewable. The board usually meets the evening of the first Thursday of every month. Members occasionally meet for site visits and usually contribute to a particular Conservation Board project by working on a committee.
If interested, send a résumé and letter of interest to Karen Billings, Town Clerk, Town of Ithaca, 215 N. Tioga St., Ithaca, NY 14850.
For more information, visit www.town.ithaca.ny.us/cboardi.htm or call 273-1721.
Plumbers/Steamfitters conducting apprentice recruiting
The Plumbers and Steamfitters Joint Apprenticeship and Training Committee, Local 267, is conducting recruitment through Dec. 1 for six plumber-steamfitter apprentices.
Applications can be obtained from 8 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., the first working Monday of each month during the recruitment period at the local, 701 W. State St., Ithaca.
The committee requires that applicants:
* Be at least 18;
* Have a high school or equivalency diploma — transcript or certificate required if selected for the program;
* Live in Chemung, Cortland, Schuyler, Steuben, Tioga or Tompkins counties;
* Have reliable transportation to work sites and related instruction classes;
* Sign an affidavit stating they are physically able to do the work;
* Pass a drug test, at the sponsor's expense, at the time of appointment.
For more information, applicants should contact the New York State Department of Labor office nearest their home or the sponsor at 272-8586.
Apprentice programs registered with the Department of Labor must meet standards established by the commissioner. Under state law, sponsors of programs cannot discriminate against applicants because of race, creed, color, national origin, age, sex, disability or marital status. Women and minorities are encouraged to submit applications for apprenticeship programs. Sponsors of programs are required to adopt affirmative action plans for the recruitment of women and minorities.
Law firm to offer diversity scholarship
The law firm of Harris Beach PLLC, with law offices in Ithaca, has launched an annual diversity scholarship program to take effect in the 2008-2009 school year.
The scholarship provides second-year law school students $7,500 paid directly to the school toward the cost of tuition. Scholarship recipients will be offered an opportunity to participate in the Harris Beach law student summer program and be considered for an offer of employment upon graduation.
Scholarship candidates and recipients must be members of groups traditionally underrepresented in large law firms, and must express a desire to work, live and practice law in New York state.
Founded in 1856, Harris Beach is one of the country's Top 250 law firms as ranked by the “National Law Journal” and has offices throughout New York state.
For more information, visit www.harrisbeach.com.
Sustainable sewing group seeks donations, members
SewGreen, an Ithaca-based organization that encourages reuse and sustainability in sewing and needlecrafts, is accepting donations of clean, folded fabric that is no longer wanted, as well as yarn, sewing notions and sewing machines of any vintage.
The donations will be used in sewing classes and for reuse projects, or will be sold at low cost to help support SewGreen events and outreach. SewGreen also donates materials to other programs that will reuse them.
To donate items or to be added to an e-mail list that announces SewGreen events, contact Wendy Skinner, SewGreen coordinator, at 277-7611.
Low-cost spaying, neutering offered at county SPCA
The Tompkins County SPCA offers low-cost spaying and neutering services.
Participants must be Tompkins County residents and meet income guidelines to be eligible.
Appointments are required and can be arranged by calling 257-1822 ext. 233.
Cold weather tips for pet owners
The SPCA of Tompkins County would like to remind pet owners to make special provisions for their animals as temperatures drop and snow arrives.
Pet owners are urged to:
* Make sure all sleeping areas are clean, dry and free of drafts;
* Keep antifreeze away from pets;
* Check water bowls regularly to prevent freezing;
* Feed your pet more if they spend time in the cold as they require more calories to regulate body temperature;
* Check under the car hood before starting the engine;
* Wipe pet's paws daily with a damp cloth to remove ice balls and road salt.
New York state law requires dog owners who allow their dogs to spend time outdoors to provide shelter that includes a waterproof roof, structural soundness and appropriate insulation to protect the dog from inclement weather, and space for the dog to have freedom of movement and waste removal.
Owners who do not provide such housing are subject to penalties and possible confiscation of the dog. The SPCA encourages the public to call 257-1822, ext. 238 dmCQ, to report any dogs they see being confined outside with inappropriate or no shelter.
City seeks volunteers for boards, committees
The City of Ithaca is seeking volunteers to participate in a variety of advisory boards and committees.
These include: Board of Public Works, Bicycle Pedestrian Advisory Council, Board of Zoning Appeals, Cable Access Oversight Committee, Commons Advisory Board, Community Police Board, Conservation Advisory Council, Design Review Board, Disability Advisory Council, Housing Board of Review, Ithaca Landmarks Preservation Commission, Ithaca Urban Renewal Agency, Parks Commission, Planning and Development Board, Public Art Commission, Rental Housing Advisory Committee, Shade Tree Advisory Committee, Workforce Diversification Advisory Committee, and Youth Bureau Board.
Interested parties can obtain a résumé form by contacting the city clerk's office at 274-6570 or visiting the city Web site at www.cityofithaca.org.
Help offered for seniors needing home repairs
Better Housing for Tompkins County Inc. is taking applications from low-income senior citizen or disabled homeowners who are in need of small repairs.
Repairs often include fixing leaking roofs, making steps secure and adding features that enhance mobility or address accessibility problems.
The homeowner pays for the materials, but labor is provided free of charge to those who qualify. Income guidelines apply.
For details, call Better Housing at 273-2187 or visit www.betterhousingtc.org/bet2_homerepair.html.
Volunteers needed for dispute resolution
The Community Dispute Resolution Center is recruiting volunteers to be trained and certified as mediators for Tompkins County.
Volunteers will use specific skills including active and reflective listening, conversation summaries, and check-ins. Those interested may call the CDRC at 273-9347 or visit www.cdrc.org.
Women's singing circle to be held monthly on first Mondays
Women Singin' at Hospicare, a singing circle, will take place from 5:30-7 p.m. on the first Monday of each month in the Great Room at the Nina K. Miller Hospicare Center, 172 E. King Road.
All women who enjoy singing are welcome. The circle will be led by Jayne Demakos, director of Hospicare's music program. A suggested donation is $3.
Contact Saoirse McClory at smcclory@hospicare.org or call 272-0212 for more information.
Informal cancer group meets monthly at Cayuga Medical
Get-togethers for people affected by cancer will be held from 4:30-6 p.m. the first Tuesday of each month at Cayuga Medical Center.
People with any type of cancer and at any stage of treatment or recovery are welcome as are their family and friends.
Most sessions will include informal conversation from 4:30-5 p.m. and a presentation beginning at 5. Speakers will be arranged based on the interests of participants, with a particular focus on health and well-being. Possible topics include nutrition, exercise, humor, and spirituality. Although not designed as formal support groups, these get-togethers will provide an opportunity to connect with others in similar situations.
Registration is not required. For more information, contact Bob Riter at 277-0960 or at bob@ibca.net.
Lansing mother forms autism support, education group
Kim Fezza of Lansing, who has a 3-year-old child with Atypical Autism, has formed the Ithaca Autism Coalition and is welcoming new members.
The group is meeting the third Thursday of each month in Room A-14 at T-S-T BOCES, 555 Warren Road.
For more information, call Kim Fezza at 257-3371 or e-mail her at kimfezza@yahoo.com.
Web site connects volunteers with those in need
Volunteertompkins.org connects community members who want to offer their time and skills with local organizations that have a need for volunteers.
At the Web site, prospective volunteers can search the database of organizations seeking volunteers. They can enter a profile of their skills, interests and contact information into a secure database that provides access to community organizations seeking volunteer help.
Individuals can also search for volunteer opportunities on a calendar of events. Through this Web site, organizations provide and update information on what they do and how volunteers can help them achieve their missions.
The Volunteer Tompkins Partnership is a collaborative effort of five organizations that help to coordinate and promote volunteerism in our community.
For more information, contact Information and Referral at 272-9331 or e-mail: info@volunteertompkins.org.
FISH seeking drivers, phone volunteers
“Friends In Service Helping” of Tompkins County is seeking new volunteers for its service providing transportation to medical and dental appointments within the county.
FISH provides rides to clients who are elderly, handicapped and financially needy and have no other means of transportation. The organization frequently serves clients from Longview, Titus Towers, Ellis Hollow Apartments and outlying and remote areas not along bus lines. The main service is to doctors, dentists, the Cayuga Medical Center and various clinics and offices.
Potential drivers should enjoy helping others and meeting strangers, have a clean driving record and be prepared to pay for gas and oil used in connection with their FISH drives. Persons interested in volunteering to drive for FISH should contact the RSVP office at 273-1511.
Financial donations are always welcome and can be sent to F. Elizabeth Phelps, 1028 Ellis Hollow Rd. Apt 232, Ithaca, NY 14850.
Support group available for girls who have experienced abuse
CASA, a support group for teenage girls age 13-18 who have experienced child sexual abuse, sexual assault, dating violence or other abuse in their lives, is welcoming new members.
The group is appropriate whether the abuse occurred recently or in the past, by an adult or a peer. CASA is a joint project of the Advocacy Center and Family and Children's Service.
For more information about CASA, call Bonni Georgia at 277-3203.
Cayuga Dog Rescue seeking financial donations
Cayuga Dog Rescue rescues abused, abandoned and stray dogs, and provides full veterinary care and rehabilitation in foster homes while they await adoption.
The organization is looking for financial donations for vet costs, and is also accepting supplies such as dog beds, toys and treats.
Donate online with a credit card at www.cayugadogrescue.org or send checks to Cayuga Dog Rescue, PO Box 722, Ithaca, NY 14851. They will pick up supplies if needed.
For more information, e-mail cayugadogrescue@yahoo.com.
Contact: dsmiller@ithacajournal.com
