On Thursday, May 1, 2014, the Downtown Ithaca Alliance and City of Ithaca Mayor Svante L. Myrick will hold ribbon cutting ceremonies for three new and relocated businesses in downtown Ithaca.
At 12:00 PM, there will be a ribbon cutting for Gateway Kitchen at 401 East State Street. The theme of Gateway Kitchen will revolve around two different types of cuisine – spicy Tex-Mex and fresh Mediterranean. Explains chef-owner Hicham Oulida, “By blending the two together, I feel that I came up with a winner for the location here in downtown Ithaca. I have been in the business for many years in different locations across the United States. This opportunity was inviting because of the location. I am happy to have chosen such a beautiful place with so many interesting, helpful, and nice people from different cultures and backgrounds.”
At 12:30 PM, there will be a ribbon cutting for Tompkins Cortland Real Estate at 105 South Cayuga Street. Principal Kristopher W. Buchan has been in the real estate business since 1994 both in Central New York and in Florida and also owns and operates the Groton Hobby Shop. Says Buchan, “I chose to open an office here because of the traffic flow, the walkability, the diversity, and the general feel of our wonderful downtown area. We’re a small-town real estate brokerage that believes in old-fashioned service combined with the latest in modern technology. Clients aren’t just a number to us – we get to know our clients.”
At 12:45 PM, there will be a ribbon cutting for Natalia’s Boutique at 107A The Commons. Recently relocated from Collegetown, Natalia’s Boutique is a fun apparel store that specializes in trending bohemian-chic styles and accessories. Bringing in the latest in fashion from New York City and Los Angeles to the heart of the Ithaca Commons, proprietor Natalie Sweeney caters to all ages and also highlights local artisan jewelry, handbags, and hair apparel. Says Sweeney, “Downtown Ithaca is the perfect blend of cultures – young college students, business professionals, local artists, and travelers from far and wife. People just love to walk the Commons in search of something unique.
All of Downtown Ithaca’s ribbon cutting ceremonies are free and open to the public.
