Local News for Tuesday, February 28, 2023

Candidate Announces for Ithaca’s Third Ward

Nathan Sitaraman has announced his candidacy for Common Council in Ithaca's new Third Ward. Sitaraman is a particle physicist at Cornell. He’s the first candidate to declare for the third ward and will run for the district’s 4-year seat. According to the Ithaca Voice, Sitaraman is a progressive Democrat focused on addressing systemic inequality, protecting reproductive rights, and improving infrastructure. He’s criticized Cornell and other institutions for treating their workers poorly and called for investing in infrastructure and housing. Kayla Matos will run for a First Ward seat and is the only other new candidate who has announced a run. 

Tax Exemption Announced for Caroline Vets

The town of Caroline has become the fourth municipality in Tompkins County to expand a property tax exemption to veterans of the Cold War. The county credited the Caroline Town Board with the move. Honorably discharged Veterans in Caroline who served in the active military of the United States between 1945, and 1991 may be eligible. The deadline to apply is tomorrow March 1. To learn more and apply for the exemption call Tompkins County Assessment at 607-274-5517 or write assessment@tompkins-co.org.

Munitions Found at Dryden School

Several empty shell casings and at least one live round of ammunition were found on the campus of Dryden’s middle and high school on Monday. Superintendent Joshua Bacigalupi said no threats had been made and expressed confidence in the school’s safeguards. He said the school’s staff and students were the most important assets if keeping the campus safe and hailed the student who discovered and reported the casings. 

Black Excellence Celebrated in Elmira

On Saturday, dozens gathered at the Ernie Davis Community Center in Elmira to celebrate Black excellence. According to WENY, Georgia Verdier, of the Elmira-Corning NAACP emphasized the power of positive reinforcement for Black youth. Jeriah Moss performed with the 607 Unity Dance Team and said the event was “all about appreciating yourself, appreciating the color of your skin, and no matter what you look like—you’re beautiful,."