Tag: Blog

A Poetic Journey in Sand with Catherine Gignac

Some performances feel like stories. Others feel like dreams. Dance of the Shadows is both.

On April 9 and 10, The Cherry Artspace will transform into a world of shifting images and living sand as Quebec artist Catherine Gignac brings her mesmerizing sand‑painting performance to Ithaca. For 45 uninterrupted minutes, the stage becomes a canvas of light, shadow, and imagination.

Gignac draws intricate scenes in sand—live, in real time—while a camera captures every movement and projects it larger-than-life. What begins as a simple line becomes a face… then a bird… then a puppet cutting its strings. One image dissolves into the next with dreamlike fluidity, each transformation surprising and strangely emotional.

The soundtrack deepens the spell: a blend of classical music, tango, and opera that rises and falls with the shifting imagery. The result is a performance that feels both ancient and modern, delicate yet powerful.

This is storytelling without words—poetry told through motion, texture, and sound.

Event Details

• Dates: April 9 & 10
• Time: 7:30 PM
• Location: The Cherry — 102 Cherry St.
• Duration: 45 minutes
• Language: No words
• Audience: Intended for adults, but enchanting and appropriate for kids
• Tickets: $20 — Tickets Here

Whether you’re drawn to visual art, experimental performance, or simply want to be transported for an evening, Dance of the Shadows offers a rare and captivating experience. It’s the kind of show you’ll find yourself thinking about long after the sand has settled.

If you’re ready for something magical, ephemeral, and unlike anything else on stage—this is the performance to catch.

Spring is finally here, and that means it’s time to dust off the clubs and hit the greens for a great cause. On Sunday, May 17th, Dryden Little League will host our 5th Annual Fundraising Golf Tournament at the beautiful Stonehedges Golf Course in Groton. This event has become a favorite tradition for families, friends, and supporters of youth baseball and softball—and we’re excited to make this year’s tournament the best one yet.

What’s Included

Golfers will enjoy a full day of fun and friendly competition. Your registration includes:

• 18 holes of golf on a scenic course
• Golf cart included
• Dinner after play
• Gift bags for all participants
• Longest drive and closest to the pin contests
• Door prizes throughout the event

And for those who love a little extra excitement, we’ll also have:

• Optional raffles
• A 50/50 putting contest

Whether you’re a seasoned golfer or just out for a good time, this Captain & Crew format makes it easy for everyone to join in.

Early Registration Discount

Register by April 30th to take advantage of a reduced entry fee. It’s a great way to save while supporting a program that gives local kids the chance to learn, grow, and play the sports they love.

How to Register

A full registration form—with all details—is attached. If you have any questions or need more information, feel free to send an email. We’re happy to help.

Why Your Support Matters

Every dollar raised goes directly toward supporting boys baseball and girls softball in our community. Your participation helps provide equipment, field improvements, uniforms, and opportunities for young athletes to build confidence, teamwork, and lifelong memories.

Thank you for being part of the Dryden Little League family. We can’t wait to see you on the course in May!

The below registration form can be filled out and returned to Mr. Bill Hughes at golf@drydenlittleleague.com.

Who says winter in Dryden has to be dull? Certainly not the Dryden Rotary Club. For more than a decade, this dedicated group has proven—year after year—that even in the coldest months, our community knows how to come together for great food, great company, and a whole lot of laughter.

One of Dryden’s most beloved traditions returns again: the annual Murder Mystery Dinner, complete with a Thanksgiving‑inspired feast and a live theatrical performance that never fails to surprise. It’s the perfect blend of cozy comfort food and interactive entertainment, and honestly, what’s not to like.

Hosted at the Dryden VFW, the evening always delivers. The food is consistently delicious, the atmosphere is lively, and the show—well, let’s just say the actors know how to keep everyone guessing. And if that weren’t enough, guests can also try their luck with 15 to 24 raffle bags, each filled with fantastic items donated by local businesses. It’s a wonderful way to support the community while maybe walking away with something special.

One detail not listed on the poster: if you have a group of six or more, you can reserve an entire table. Just reach out to Christine Sanford or Brian Buttner directly—group reservations aren’t available through PayPal. And if you need tickets, they’ve got you covered and can get more as needed.

This event isn’t just a fundraiser. It’s a reminder of what makes Dryden such a special place: neighbors gathering together, supporting local causes, and finding joy even in the dead of winter.

If you’re interested in attending—or if you just want to know more—contact Brian Buttner at 607‑844‑4601 or reach out to any Dryden Rotarian. Seats go quickly, and once you’ve been, you’ll understand why. Check out the flyer below for more information!

Winter may be long, but nights like this make it a whole lot brighter.

We wanted to take the time to thank all of our residents who came out to vote in our Village Election yesterday, March 18th 2026. Voting is just one small way to get involved with local government and advocate for important issues and the representatives who want to make Freeville and our community even stronger!

A total of 38 ballots were cast:

1. Miles McCarty was reelected as mayor for an additional two-year term with a total of 37 votes.
2. Anusuya Rangarajan was elected for a two-year seat as a Trustee on the Board of Trustees with 35 votes.
3. Juan Vazquez-Leddon was also elected for a two-year seat as a Trustee on the Board of Trustees with 33 votes.

There was also a total of 4 write-in votes.

Congratulations to our winners!!

We would also like to thank our two election inspectors, Diane Eaton and Jean Simmons, and our part-time deputy clerk, Melanie Allen. These fantastic ladies helped election day run smoothly!

Looking for a gentle reset this March? Yoga For Life with Michele is hosting two uplifting Saturday yoga classes on March 14th and 21st at 11 AM at the Freeville United Methodist Church. These sessions offer a welcoming space to stretch, breathe, and reconnect with yourself.

Michele’s supportive teaching style makes the practice accessible for all levels, and at just $10 per class, it’s an easy way to invest in your wellbeing. With enough community interest, these classes could grow into a regular weekly offering.

Bring your mat, wear something comfortable, and come enjoy a peaceful start to your weekend. Your mind and body will appreciate the pause.

We’re thrilled to share a brand-new and easier way for residents to get in touch with their local government. Clerk Julia Wallace is now carrying a dedicated Village Clerk Cell Phone, and you can call or text her directly at 607-261-0705 whenever you need assistance. With open office hours being rather limited, we know it hasn’t always been easy to reach us at times. This new service is designed to make communication quicker, more convenient, and more responsive so you never feel like you are waiting for answers!

You can text this line at any time of day, and Julia will respond as soon as she is available! She monitors the phone daily, regardless of open hours, and wants residents to feel completely comfortable reaching out whenever something comes up. The only time you may notice a slight delay are if she is out of town or you message in the evening hours. If you’ve never texted the line before, just ensure that you include your first and last name so we know who we are talking to!

So what can you text the clerk phone for? Here’s just a few ways to take advantage:

• Questions or concerns about general Village operations
• Questions or concerns about tax payments and billing
• Code inquiries or assistance securing permits
• Filing complaints
• Maintenance and plowing requests or concerns
• Requesting house call services.
• Requesting meetings with Clerk or with other Village officials.
• Requesting reminders about upcoming meetings/community events.
• And whatever else you think we may be able to help you with!

If you’re unsure whether something can be resolved via text, go ahead and send the number a message anyways! We’ll be here to point you in the right direction.

We want every resident of Freeville to feel that their local government is accessible and that their voices are heard! Your questions and concerns matter and we want you to know that support is only a text message away! Save the number today: 607-261-0705. We can’t wait to hear from you!

The Dryden Center for Community (DCC) has officially taken a major step forward in its mission to create a vibrant, inclusive gathering space for all. Stephanie Ortolano–Executive Director of the DCC and a dedicated member of our Board of Trustees–and her team have officially closed on the organization’s new home: the former Dryden Methodist Church. You can read more about the closing by checking out this story posted in Tompkins Weekly: https://www.tompkinsweekly.com/news/dryden-center-for-community-representatives-complete-purchase-of-church-building-34bbf27b

Stephanie and her team envision the DCC as a welcoming hub where creativity, collaboration, and community spirit flow freely. The newly acquired space will open the door to a wide range of opportunities and spaces, including:

• Music and art workshops
• Rental spaces for events, meetings, and community dinners
• Game nights, dances, and social gatherings
• Rehearsal spaces for bands and musicians
• and countless other activities shaped by community interest!

The goal is simple but powerful: to create a place where people of all ages and backgrounds feel at home, inspired, and connected.

Want to follow the transformation of the space and be the first to know about upcoming programs and events? Visit drydencenter.org to sign up for the newsletter, donate to support the project, or get in touch with the DCC team. You can also stay connected by following the Dryden Center for Community on Facebook.

The DCC team and the Village of Freeville are thrilled to see this dream become a reality. The engagement and support of the community has been essential every step of the way, so we thank our residents for all they’ve done to support this mission. The future of the DCC is bright, and this new space is just getting started! We all are ready and eager to see what comes next for the DCC.

If you’re looking for a fun way to shake off the winter chill, gather your sharpest friends and head over to the Dryden Vets Club on Route 13 for an evening of friendly competition and community spirit. The Dryden Little League is hosting a Trivia Night Fundraiser on Monday, February 9, from 6:30 to 8:30 PM, and everyone is invited to join the excitement.

This isn’t just any trivia night—it’s a chance to show off your knowledge, support local youth sports, and maybe even walk away with some cash. Teams can sign up right at the door, and it’s only $5 per person to play. Whether you’re a seasoned trivia buff or just in it for the laughs, you’ll fit right in.

Here’s the twist that makes the night even more thrilling: Half of all registration fees go directly to the winning team. That means your brainpower could literally pay off. The other half supports Dryden Little League, helping provide equipment, field maintenance, and opportunities for young athletes in our community.

So don’t spend another cold Monday night cooped up at home. Come out, bring your A-game, and enjoy a lively evening with neighbors and friends. You’ll be supporting local ball players and giving yourself a shot at victory—all while having a great time.

For more information, refer to the flyer below or reach out to ball@drydenlittleleague.com.

New York State has been under a state of emergency since Friday due to the extreme cold and the significant winter storm expected to impact our area today. With the heaviest snowfall anticipated over the course of today, we want to check in, offer guidance, and ensure everyone feels supported and prepared.

Please take every precaution as conditions worsen throughout the day. A few important reminders and tips:

• Stay indoors whenever possible. Freezing temperatures and strong winds can create dangerous conditions in minutes.
• Avoid unnecessary travel. Roads may become hazardous quickly and visibility can drop without warning. If you must travel, ensure you pack food, water, and blankets.
• Prepare for potential power disruptions. Keep phones charged, gather flashlights, and have blankets accessible.

Please note that office hours for tomorrow will depend on weather and road conditions. Our priority is the safety of both residents and staff.

Storms like this can be stressful, but our community has always shown resilience and care for one another. Thank you for your patience, your cooperation, and your commitment to staying safe.

Wishing each of you warmth, comfort, and peace as we get through this winter weather together. Stay safe, stay indoors, and take good care of yourselves.

The Freeville Elementary School PTA is excited to invite our community to a delicious night out for a great cause. Join us at Brewer’s Taproom and Kitchen on Friday, January 23rd from 4:00–8:00 PM for an evening that brings together good food, good company, and meaningful support for our school. Brewer’s Taproom and Kitchen is located at 1384 Dryden Road Ithaca, NY 14850.

Brewer’s will generously donate a portion of all sales—including both dine‑in and take‑out orders—to benefit Freeville Elementary School and the PTA. Every meal enjoyed helps fund programs, activities, and resources that directly support our students and teachers.

Whether you’re planning a family dinner, grabbing takeout on your way home, or meeting up with friends, your participation makes a real difference.

If you’d like more information, feel free to reach out at freevillepta@gmail.com or visit the Freeville Elementary PTA Facebook page for updates.

Can’t make it to Brewer’s but still want to support the PTA? No problem—just use the QR code on the flyer below to explore additional ways to contribute. Every bit of support helps strengthen our school community.

We hope to see you there for a night of great food and even greater impact.