‘Poe, Through The Tales Darkly’
GNac to present tapestry of Poe stories
For the past few years, Great Northern Artists Collaborative (GNAC) has performed their own versions of Phantasmagoria’s works “Tales by Candlelight” and “A Christmas Carol and The Canterville Ghost” to sold out houses. Now GNAC is proud to be bringing to Central New York guest artists “Byron”, the creator of Phantasmagoria from Florida, as well as “Carlotta” from St. Louis to both perform in a tapestry of Poe stories, “Poe, Through The Tales Darkly”
The performance will run for two shows only, Friday, July 18 and Saturday, July 19 at 7:30 p.m. at the GNAC Theatre, 8396 Morgan Road in Clay. Each performance will include a Post Show Talkback with the actors.
From the haunted stirrings of “The Raven” to the sheer terror of “The Tell Tale Heart”. . . and from the obsessively plotted revenge of “The Casque of Amontillado” to the bittersweet and lovely longing of “Annabel Lee,” along with a selection of other whimsical, macabre, and terrifying stories and poems, GNAC invites you to celebrate an evening of Poe’s works.
“We’re excited to host the acclaimed Victorian Horror troupe PHANTASMAGORIA on the GNAC stage as they bring to life the tales and poetry of Edgar Allan Poe through their evocative storytelling,” said GNAC Artistic Director Derek Potocki.
With its own unique and spectacular blend of storytelling, dance, ensemble work, large scale puppetry, aerial work, fire performance, side show entertainments and stage combat, Phantasmagoria has been wowing critics and audiences alike since its premier. Now in its 15th year of production, Phantasmagoria’s main stage and touring productions offer stories taken from century’s old literature of horror and the macabre, folklore, and legend, while their appearances and special events charm with a professional variety of circus, sideshow and theatrical flair!
There is a limited amount of seats available for these performances. Tickets are $20.00 for general admission and $15.00 for students and seniors. Tickets are available now at greatnorthernarts.com, and will also be available at the door. See you there…if you dare!
By Russ TARBy Contributing writer
wonders ‘what can we do?’
By Russ TARBy Contributing writer
After finishing its single-agenda item at its monthly meeting June 23, the village planning board turned to the ongoing controversy regarding American High, the film company and academy at 800 Fourth St.
“Isn’t there anything we can do,” asked planning board member Jim Rosier. “They’ve had many, many code violations. There has to be something we can do to address the situation.”
Prior to the American High discussion, the board had conducted a public hearing into an application by Brandi Dayle of Studio B Dance Co, regarding parking at her First Street business. The application, and the public hearing, will be continued at the July meeting. A former village trustee, Rosier pointed out that shortly after buying the historic high school building here in 2017, American High was granted a special permit to operate as a film school.
“Who adjudicates whether they’re actually running a school there,” asked board member Heidi McElwee.
Planning board Chairman Bob Bradt, who works as a bus driver for the Liverpool Central School District, confirmed that he has transported high-school students to American High for various educational events.
Bradt added that code violations should be dealt with via citations and assessments of fines.
Early in June, American High drew numerous complaints from neighbors as a diesel generator spewed noxious fumes into the air. The film company was shooting a comedy currently called “The Untitled BriTANicK Pizza Movie” starring Gaten Matarazzo and Sean Giambrone.
That diesel fuel issue prompted Mayor Stacy Finney to write a letter to the editor detailing American High’s long list of code violations since it was established here eight years ago. The mayor specifically focused on American High CEO Jeremy Garelick.
“He knowingly does something that violates his permit, apologizes, feigns poverty, promises to do better, and rattles off a list of exaggerated stats. Rinse and repeat. Mr. Garelick’s relationship with the village of Liverpool is textbook abusive. Those on the outside think he is a great guy, those of us on the inside know the truth.”
For his part, Garelick said he loves Liverpool and wants to see it prosper. He even announced that he would run for mayor against Finney in the Nov. 4 election, but he is not presently a resident of the village. Residency would have to be established by Election Day, in order for Garelick to be eligible.
Submitted photo Journey with members of the critically acclaimed Victorian Horror troupe Phantasmagoria as their evocative storytelling brings to life the tales and poetry of Edgar Allan Poe on stage at the Great Northern Artists Collaborative (GNAC) Theatre, 8396 Morgan Road in Clay. Performances will be July 18 and 19 at 7:30 p.m. For more information and tickets visit greatnorthernarts.com
The Latin Groove Connection, a sextet comprised of some of the finest jazzmen in CNY will make its Johnson Park debut at 7 p.m. Wednesday, July 2, at Johnson Park, as part of the 39th annual Liverpool Is The Place Summer Concert Series; liverpoolis-
theplace.com The combo is led by percussionist David Donley, a veteran of the Big Apple
Submitted photoS
ABOVE: The Fate-ettes will vocalize with the classic rock band Fate on Wednesday evening, July 9, at Johnson Park as part of the 39th annual Liverpool Is The Place summer Concert series. RIGHT: Percussionist David Donley, bandleader of the Latin Groove Connection, performing a free concert on Wednesday evening, July 2, at Johnson Park.
Concerts l Page 11
The Northern Onondaga Public Library (NOPL) at Brewerton, Cicero and North Syracuse has launched its annual Summer Reading Program, part of the national Collaborative Summer Library Program (CSLP).
The 2025 theme is “Color
Our World.” NOPL takes part in this initiative each year to encourage children to become lifelong readers and for all ages to visit libraries for learning, entertainment and community.
NOPL’s Summer Reading Program includes reading challenges and prizes, as well as educational and recreational events to support literacy, learning and creativity. It is open to children, teens and adults across the community.
Free events for all ages can be found at nopl.org/ events or by picking up a calendar at a NOPL loca-
tion. (Note: Many events require registration.) July events for kids and teens
include:
For kids:
July 8: Magic Show with The Great and Powerful Dave (kids/tweens/teens), 1 p.m.-1:45 p.m., NOPL Cicero
July 8: LP Spin Art for Kids (kids/tweens/teens), 4 p.m.-5 p.m., NOPL North Syracuse
July 9: Summertime Tie Dye (preschool/kids/ tweens/teens), 2 p.m.-3 p.m., NOPL Cicero
July 12: Drop In Crafts for Kids: Sharks! 2 p.m.-4 p.m., NOPL North Syracuse
July 14: MOST Color Lab, 2 p.m.-3 p.m., NOPL North Syracuse
July 16: Kids Make: DIY Bubble Wands, 2 p.m.-3 p.m., NOPL Cicero
July 17: Zoo to You, 1 p.m.-2 p.m., NOPL Brew-
erton
July 21: Zoo to You, 2 p.m.-3 p.m., NOPL North Syracuse
Nominate Mayor and 2 Trustee candidates for the election Tuesday November 4th, 2025 All Registered Republican Residents of the Village of Liverpool are welcome to attend
July 21: Drop in Farm Animals Craft, 5 p.m.-6 p.m., NOPL Brewerton
July 23: Henna Celebration with SK Henna (kids/ tweens/teens), 4 p.m.-5 p.m. NOPL Cicero
July 28: MOST Color Lab, 2 p.m.-3 p.m., NOPL Cicero
July
July Events
Take part in our food Contest and win a Gift Certificate to Nichols. RSVP Required.
July 25 Friday Liverpool Chamber Golf Outing at Hickory Hill Golf course at 11 am for golfers and 3:30 to attend the after hours for those non golfers. RSVP required Watch for multiple Ribbon cuttings in and around Liverpool. The events page at liverpoolchamber.com will keep you up to date.
Northern Onondaga Public Library (NOPL) at Brewerton, Cicero and North syracuse has launched its annual summer Reading Program.
John D. Marsellus, 86 husband, father, grandfather
John Douglas Marsellus, 86, died peacefully from pancreatic challenges. He lived and worked in Syracuse all of his life.
John attended local schools, then graduated from Deerfield Academy and The University of Virginia where he was a member of St. Elmo Hall and several honorary societies including The Seven Society.
After serving in the U.S. Army Intelligence Corps, he began a 40-year business career with the Marsellus Casket Company. For John, the Company was a family business and “a business family.” He truly loved his work and funeral industry friends. He respected the skills and craftsmanship of his associates. The Marsellus Company enjoyed the reputation of being the leading manufacturer of fine hardwood caskets in the world.
Throughout his life, he consistently enjoyed and supported volunteerism and creative philanthropy.
He served in leadership positions and
as a trustee and director of local civic organizations including American Red Cross (local and national positions}, Crouse Hospital (30 years,) ESF Foundation, Commissioner NYS Parks Central Region, M&T Bank Advisory Board Central Region, NYS State Fair Advisory Board, Syracuse Rotary Club (60 years) and the former Syracuse Chamber of Commerce (both his great grandfathers John Marsellus and Robert Dey were past presidents}.
John was involved with public projects such as the 24 Second Shot Clock, a new carillon system in City Hall, attention to Forman Park upgrades, the bronze sculpture of Libba Cotton in Libba Cotton Grove and a Peace Garden at the MOST which includes an original concrete section of the Berlin Wall.
John was recognized with an honorary fegree from Onondaga Community Col-
lege, a lifetime achievement award from the Casket & Funeral Service Supply Association and the Colvin Conservation Award from the Montezuma Audubon Center.
Besides loving his family and enjoying all types of people, John had a cheerful enthusiasm with a special zest and curiosity for travel and adventure … even a skydive in 2018. John enjoyed Skaneateles Lake, Boca Grande, FL, the arts, sailing, skiing, tennis and travelling with his wife and life partner, Candace, in Northern England, Switzerland and Maine. He is survived by his wife, Candace, of
59 years, a daughter, Bettina, a son, Derrick, and grandchildren.
His cheerful, giving spirit, sense of humor, many acts of kindness and enjoyment of good times with friends and family will be missed by those who knew and loved him. In John’s memory, please consider making a contribution to a community charity of your choice.
A private burial service will be at the family gravesite in Oakwood Cemetery, Syracuse.
Arrangements are in the care of Fergerson Funeral Home, North Syracuse.
DEATH NOTICES
Beverly J. Amie, 99, of Cato, passed away June 19, 2025. The Bush Funeral Home of Elbridge has charge of arrangements.
John D. Marsellus
OuR vOicE
Safety first on the Fourth
As July Fourth approaches many are likely looking forward to enjoying some fireworks whether that is in the form of a professional show their community is hosting or buying some for personal enjoyment.
It was a little more than 10 years ago former New York State Gov. Andrew Cuomo signed a bill allowing the use and sale of “sparkling” fireworks only during specific time periods, namely from June 1 to July 5 for Fourth of July celebrations and Dec. 26 to Jan. 2 for New Year’s Eve celebrations.
Since then it is not uncommon to see fireworks for sale in stores like Walmart and Target and various vendors set up locally.
While fireworks have become more commonplace and readily available, it is still important to keep safety in mind when using any kind of fireworks.
As July 4 fast approaches, the Firefighter’s Association of the State of New York (FASNY) is encouraging people to take the time to be aware of some of the dangers associated with fireworks and to take measures to ensure their safety while avoiding accidents, fires and injuries.
The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) highlights that fireworks cause an estimated 19,500 reported fires in the U.S. each year.
According to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), an estimated 10,200 people were treated in an emergency room due to fireworkrelated injuries in 2022. It is important to remember that in many cases, the individual injured was not always the individual using the explosives.
Also, sparklers may look harmless, and almost toy-like, but they can be incredibly harmful and can cause serious injury and fires.
The U.S. CPSC reported that in 2022, 600 individuals were injured due to sparkler use.
The tip of a sparkler burns at a temperature of nearly 2,000 degrees Fahrenheit, which can cause severe 3rd degree burns. According to the NFPA, sparklers cause roughly 25% of all fireworks-related emergency room visits, the most of any type of fireworks device.
“As New Yorkers make plans to celebrate Independence Day with friends and family, we encourage everyone to take into account the dangers associated with both legal and illegal fireworks and review firework safety tips and have a preparedness plan,” said FASNY President Edward Tase Jr. “The safest way to enjoy fireworks and avoid firework-related injuries this Fourth of July is at professional displays in your community. We hope all New Yorkers can make this a memorable celebration for all the right reasons.”
NFPA and FASNY also shared some other tips to keep in mind.
They recommend attending a local professional fireworks show if possible as the safest option for enjoying fireworks during the Fourth.
These organizations go on to recommend using glow sticks in lieu of sparklers.
It is also recommended to resist the temptation to get close to the firing site—the best view of a professional fireworks display is from a quarter of a mile or more away; Do not possess or shoot off illegal fireworks on your own. Besides risking injury to yourself and the crowd watching the demonstration, it is breaking the law; Fireworks, with the exception of handheld, groundbased effects, and sparklers, are illegal in the State of New York; Do not pick up or attempt to re-light used or “dud” fireworks—they may still cause serious burns or injury.
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I bought myself a pair of blue crystal earrings on my 60th birthday. On my 85th birthday, however, jewelry was not on my mind. My mission at Nightingales prompted by a surprising surfeit of birthday money? Find a spectacular perennial to brighten a sunny spot near the roses in my garden.
And there it was, in all its loveliness, a hydrangea of epic beauty. A House and Garden cover flower, it was filled with mop head effervescent yellow blooms, each encircled by shimmering chartreuse green petals. It was my birthday gift to myself … until I saw the gooseberry bush. Nothing effervescent about it…green leaves on branches filled with spikey thorns and small globes of sour, tart not-yet-ripe berries.
There was no choice. My birthday gift had to be this gooseberry bush. Its beauty was of another kind, another time. It was a talisman enshrining a time and place with powerful memories unique only to me.
Between the ages of 5 and 13 I spent two weeks, sometimes more, with my grandmother at her tiny bungalow in Lake Carmel. We lived those summer days and nights filled with excitement created from nothing … except the stream that ran across the dirt road behind my grandmother’s house where I would capture polliwogs and try to raise them in a water filled mason jar tucked in the shade of a mountain laurel.
It was nothing … except for fishing with a bent pin, kitchen string and a stick on the three logs shaky dock at the end of Ogden Road.
It was nothing … except for the patience of my grandmother teaching me how to remove the scales and clean the fish that we caught.
It was nothing … except for the time we spent making root beer, capping each bottle and storing them under the cottage out of the summer heat or when we would lie
on a mattress in the attic and listen to the rain on the roof. It was nothing … except when we walked barefoot along the roads to go to the grocery store for a container of milk to go with the kitchen sink cookies that my grandmother had made on the kerosene stove.
It was nothing … except when I learned how to make jam out of whatever we picked, carefully sealing each jar with melted paraffin. Among the nothings that we made into jam were the rhubarb and the unripe gooseberries that lined the back of the garden. Both were terribly tart and sour, but my grandmother, with little more than nothing, made miraculous things happen to them.
It was triple decker sandwiches and chocolate cake for lunch every day, washed down with the homemade root beer and the nothing of how to make bread which became part of the sandwiches.
It was fetching and hauling gallon glass bottles of potable water from the spring on Beekman Drive that we stored under the kitchen table and cooled off in the small refrigerator.
It was the nothing of Bingo and card games and pick-up-sticks on the porch on rainy days, or on sunny days, building houses out of stones and twigs on the sand pile in the back of the house.
It was the nothing of dress up with daisy crowns and princess capes made from old curtains; the nothing of playing pirates using curtain rods for swords.
It was the nothing of watching for the postman to stop at our mailbox at the bottom of the road or the nothing of fireflies dancing in the weeds or the horror of large miller moths crashing into the kitchen screens at night.
It was picking the Japanese beetles off the vegetables and dropping them into a can of kerosene.
Mostly nothing. And more nothing: There was no phone, no car. My grandparents never learned how to drive. We walked everywhere. Water for dishwashing and the loo came from a jury-rigged cistern made from a metal barrel that collected water from the roof. There was also sun-warmed water collected from a water barrel to fill the galvanized tub for our Saturday baths.
But it was the gooseberries that held it all together, their tart sourness combined with the equal tart rhubarb made into luscious jams and pies with my grandmother’s magic and dictum that you make the best with what you have.
And that belief was the nothing of those summers.
In my memories, these times were among the best of my life. Their lessons emphasized the importance of living within the life you have been given, making the best of what was or is.
My grandmother had little in the way of earthly treasure. What she had, she shared with flair…always with herself present to guide, to teach, to move you forward with an exploration and imagination built on what you knew how to do. Daily life was our recreation. We were a functioning part of that daily life, nothing special.
If I can examine my life, surveying each era … an always short-ofmoney student on scholarship, a young teacher overwhelmed with work, a bride figuring out how to live in a house that “needed work,” a working mother often too tired … I had this time of gooseberries as a guide, a blueprint, a prototype with which I could modify the guesses, stresses and messes of life.
Maybe, if I am lucky, I will have the chance to teach my grandsons how to turn sour/tart fruit into a pie or jam, leaving them with at least a tiny bit of my format for living. I’ve begun with the gooseberry bush.
And so, while that exquisite
Nothing l Page 8
Garelick directing comedy starring Owen Wilson
American High founder Jeremy Garelick certainly has his hands full this year. In fact, he should probably take up juggling.
The 49-year-old film-maker has announced his intention to challenge incumbent Liverpool Mayor Stacy Finney in the November election, and Live Nation Productions has announced that he’s directing a comedy feature called “Rolling Loud,” starring Owen Wilson, Matt Rife and Henry Winkler.
Writer, producer, director
Not only is Garelick calling the shots on set, he has already written the script and will also produce along with his American High partner, Will Phelps.
Inspired by a true story, the film focuses on an overprotective father attempting to bond with his 13-year-old son by sneaking him into Rolling Loud in Miami, Fla., the world’s biggest hip hop music festival.
This sets off a chaotic adventure with his reckless co-worker and a quirky festival volunteer. Together, they navigate wild crowds, harsh security, raw rap and family dynamics.
Leading man Owen Wilson is best known for his work in such films as “Starsky & Hutch,’ “Zoolander” and “Wedding Crashers.”
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“Rolling Loud” – a joint venture between Live Nation Productions, American High and Pat Solitano Productions – will also feature Christian Convery, Christine Ko, Sexyy Red, Ty Dolla $ign, Ski Mask the Slump God, Nav, the Weeknd, Leon Thomas III, Young Thug and The Kid Laroi.
s hooting in Miami, Atlanta Shooting locations are Atlanta, Ga. and Miami, Fla., according to productionlist.co m , which estimated the shoot to run for four weeks.
Depending on which particular four weeks are needed, the production schedule could seriously impinge on Garelick’s political ambitions. Because the movie-maker is a resident of Fayetteville, not Liverpool, a local residency would have to be established in order for him to qualify as a candidate in the Nov. 4 election.
Village Republicans will nominate a mayoral candidate at their July 10 caucus. Garelick is not a registered Republican.
“Rolling Loud” will be released in 2026 with UTA Independent Film Group representing worldwide rights. It follows Garelick’s 2023 action-wracked comedy, “Murder Mystery 2,” starring Adam Sandler and Jennifer Aniston. Garelick’s earlier
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credits include “The Wedding Ringer” starring Kevin Hart and “The Binge” starring Vince Vaughn.
Mayor vs. American High
Since Garelick purchased the old high school building at 800 Fourth St. in 2017, American High has produced more than a dozen full-length teen comedies, from Pete Davidson’s “Big Time Adolescence” to the more recent “Summer of 69.”
After noting years of various code violations there, Mayor Finney wrote a letter to the editor early last month calling on Garelick to move his film company out of the village.
He responded: “Honestly, it feels like the village is spending time and taxpayer money trying to block progress instead of championing it. Imagine what we could accomplish if that energy went toward solutions, creativity, and actually making Liverpool stronger.”
Last word
“You’re an art teacher trying to push artists out of town. That’s not protecting the community. That’s killing it.”
– American High CEO Jeremy Garelick, addressing incumbent Mayor Stacy Finney, who is an 8th grade art teacher at Strough Middle School in Rome, N.Y.
Contact the columnist at russtarby@aol.co m
Ramblings from the empty nest
ann Ferro
Livin’ in Liverpool
russ tarby
By JEFF sNOW town of CLay hiStorian
aSSoCiation member
I was very intrigued with Linda Wesner’s realistic landscapes I found online. When I contacted her, she told me she lives in Ohio today but her roots run deep here in the town of Clay area near Moyers Corners.
Wesner mentioned her maiden name is Arnold, and that her father, Bill Arnold, was one of the founding members of the Moyers Corners Volunteer Fire Department and a town of Clay councilman. In addition, her father built a road with houses on it on his former dairy farm and named the road after her.
So, Linda Arnold Wesner is the Linda Lane which is a shortcut between Rte. 57 and Gaskin Rd in the northwest section of the Town of Clay.
Wesner, daughter of Bill and Margery Arnold, grew up during the 1950s and
INsPIREs
1960s along Route 57 in the town of Clay. Her first drawings were created in a sunny farm house kitchen north of Moyers Corners. While a student at Baldwinsville Academy and Central Schools, she drew on chalkboards, doodled in notebook margins, and sketched neighborhood scenes. In her free time, she explored her father’s abandoned dairy farm, searching for clues to the past. Childhood memories of the
neighbors and landscape around Clay forged her artistic imagination and love of history.
While living and working in Oswego’s historic Richardson-Bates Museum, she earned a graduate degree in fine art and museum studies from the State University of New York at Oswego. She and her husband Paul built their first home on Horseshoe Island. In the following years, she moved frequently to differ-
ent states with her husband and children, and currently resides in Columbus, Ohio. Her continued interest in local history bonded her to each new location and inspired her drawings and paintings.
Wesner’s work is regularly featured in solo and group exhibitions throughout the United States, including The National Arts Club, Manhattan; Lyme Art Gallery, Connecticut; The Everson Museum of Art, Syracuse; and Academy of Art College, San Francisco. Her work has been featured
in books and publications, including The American Artist Magazine and The American Art Collector. Awards include The Hudson Valley Art Association and Cooperstown Art Association. Her work is included corporate and collegiate collections, including IBM and Syracuse University. She is a signature member of The Colored Pencil Society of America, The National Association of Women Artists, Inc., The Hudson Valley Art Association, and Catharine Lorillard Wolfe Art Club.
map of the locations is available in two locations: The Liverpool Public Library (in the lobby) and at the Gleason Mansion (in the trunk on the front porch). People can also vote online using
a QR code found on the flyer posted at each business. These two locations also have a ballot box to submit your vote! One vote per person, please. Show your support and enjoy a walk-about in the Village of Liverpool in the month of July. Check the Facebook pages of the Village of Liverpool or Liverpool Community Gardeners for updates and
announcements. The winner will be announced on Friday, Aug. 1. The following businesses have barrels to admire:
#1 Gwen’s Helping Hands 314 2nd Street (Gleason Mansion) #2 Liverpool Chiropractic and Wellness 403 Tulip St.
#3 Kieffer’s Cigar Store 409 Tulip St. #4 Liverpool First
FROM THE MAILBAG
THE PRICE OF GENIus
Less than 48 hours apart, and just before the United States celebrated birthday no. 249, two storied figures in American popular music left us.
One was Sylvester Stewart, better known to all as Sly Stone. The other was Brian Wilson. Together they helped alter and define the sound of the late 20th century and, while doing so, reminded us that supreme talent rarely arrives without dealing with supreme struggle.
Just like the classical greats of other centuries like Mozart or Schubert, Sly and Brian were capable musicians from a very young age, demonstrating gifts rarely bestowed among mortals.
In Sly’s case, it went from gospel recordings with his siblings to work as a famed DJ in the bay area and a producer before he put together Sly and the Family Stone in 1966.
Then and now, what Sly did was revolutionary. Keyboards, guitars, drums, horns all together but, what was more, it was multiracial and was capable of just about anything – soul, R&B, funk, rock, and a few other genres blended together into the most infectious thing you ever heard.
Their songs and their mes-
sage were the same. People could live together. And it was joyous at the start, from “Dance to the Music” which broke it all down, instrument by instrument, to ‘Everyday People” and countless other gems. Try to watch the Woodstock movie and not respond, “Wanna take you higher – HIGHER!”
But Sly’s utopia ran into the harsh reality of the late 1960s and early ‘70s. That and the burden of his gift gradually sent Sly into darker places, from the missed concerts to the bleak realism of There’s a Riot Goin’ On He showed us what was possible – Prince, for one, never happens without Sly – but was broken, piece by piece, and never fully recovered.
The same 1966 where Sly and the Family Stone was created also gave us Pet Sounds, a record still not equaled in its concept or its harmonies or its sounds or its sheer beauty. Brian Wilson was responsible for all of it.
Brian’s famous musical ear (just in on ear) was also evident in childhood, as was the harmonies he devised while with brothers Dennis and Carl, cousin Mike Love and friend Al Jardine in the group which
became the Beach Boys. Yet from the outset Brian faced adversity. First it was the tyrannical rule of his father, with physical and mental abuse a notable part of the story. Then it was his own breakdown at the height of the Beach Boys’ popularity which took him off the road and relegated him to the studio, the place he loved best.
In those Southern California studios Brian really did his magic, from arranging the harmonies of classics like “Surfer Girl” to layering instruments into exquisite soundscapes – the opening of “California Girls”, for example.
They all paved the way to Pet Sounds. Few pieces of music have ever proved more influential. Paul McCartney, blown away, knew he and his mates had to try and top it and, well, Sgt. Pepper happened. Just about everyone else serious about music has attempted for nearly 60 years to match the pure sonic wonder of that album.
Again, though, the price of genius was quite steep. More darkness for Brian followed, persisting for decades, and while he finally recorded and played live again, he struggled until the end, not helped by Mike Love, whose
Random Thoughts Phil blackwell
jealousy and attempt to keep the Beach Boys legacy all for himself persists to this day.
Recent movies and documentaries have helped fill out the pictures of these two remarkable lives, leading to a renewed and greater appreciation for what Sly and Brian both gave us and not just focusing on the many things which helped drag them down.
Truth is, they’re both massive contributors to what American music feels and sounds like. You’ll hear them plenty next weekend at holiday picnics, even if the concerts and pyrotechnic shows lean toward macho flag-waving which looks great on the surface but lacks much depth.
Legendary art is rarely produced by contentment. The lives of Sly Stone and Brian Wilson, both unique and both instrumental (pun intended) in shaping modern sound, bear this out, and as the years pass their troubled lives will soon give away, leaving us the songs, plenty of reason to celebrate –and dance, of course.
Phil Blackwell is sports editor at Eagle News. He can be reached at pblackwell@ eaglenewsonline.com.
l From page 5
around it. I took a picture of the barn today which is to the right of Wesner’s picture. The train station drawing, done by Wesner with colored pencil, was located on the east side of the train tracks in the hamlet of Clay. Since then, the train station has been moved over to the west side of the tracks and now is in the Clay Historical Park which feature many museum items. The river painting is near Wesner and her husband’s former home on Horseshoe Island. Her portrait has the painting behind her too. Hopefully Wesner can share more paintings inspired from the town of Clay.
For more information, suggestions, or article requests, please visit the Clay Historical Association’s Google page. Any questions can be directed to historian@townofclay.org. The Clay Historical Association meets on the second Wednesday of every month at 6:30 p.m. at the Clay Historical Park. Those interested in attending, inviting others to join, or sharing historical photographs are encouraged to reach out. Linda Wesner helped write this information on her life and art.
hydrangea would have added so much to my flower borders, the gooseberry bush adds not only its fruit but a solid, thorny reminder of who I am at 85 is because of who I was a lifetime ago.
Ann Ferro is a mother, a grandmother and a retired social studies teacher. While still figuring out what she wants to be when she grows up, she lives in Marcellus with lots of books, a spouse and a large orange cat.
syRACusE ORCHEsTRA PERFORMs THIs suMMER
Summer 2025 is nearly upon us, and The Syracuse Orchestra has several performances in a variety of locations to sweeten your family picnic outings!
July 2, 7:30 p.m. – Hamilton
The orchestra performs on the Village Green.
Enjoy light classical favorites, patriotic tunes, and popular standards.
All ages are welcome. This concert is free to attend.
July 3, 8 p.m. – Auburn
The orchestra performs at the pavilion at Emerson Park on the north shore of Owasco Lake.
Enjoy light classical favorites, patriotic tunes, and popular standards.
All ages are welcome for music followed by fireworks.
This concert is free to attend.
July 5, 7:30 p.m. – Fayetteville
The orchestra performs at Beard Park.
All ages are welcome. This concert is free to attend. (Rain Date: July 24, 7:30 p.m.)
July 11, 7:30 p.m. – Clayton
The orchestra pairs some of the most famous classical music selections with popular works from film composers and pieces from Broadway musicals.
Tickets for this concert at the Clayton Opera House: $38.50-$48.50
July 23, 7:30 p.m. – s yracuse
The orchestra performs light classical favorites, patriotic tunes, and popular standards.
All ages are welcome for a relaxed evening of music at Inspiration Hall, 709 James Street.
This concert is free to attend.
July 25, 7:30 p.m. – Cazenovia
The orchestra returns to Lorenzo House.
The program will include classical favorites, patriotic tunes, and popular
standards.
All ages are welcome for a relaxed evening of music. This concert is free to attend.
July 26, 8 p.m. – Rome
The orchestra performs as part of Rome’s Honor America Days Festival.
Enjoy light classical favorites, patriotic tunes, and popular standards. All ages are welcome for a relaxed evening of music followed by fireworks. This concert is free to attend. (Rain Date: July 27, 8 p.m.)
Don E. Falardeau 1938 - 2023
Albert C. Clos Owner & Licensed Manager Jason Ryder
Joseph D. Falardeau 1966 - 2013 Mary Falardeau Reed
SchOOLS AND SchOLARS
Local students named to Elmira college Dean’s List
The following local students were named to the Elmira College Dean’s List for Academic Achievement for the Winter 2025 Term: Rachel Benjamin of Liverpool, Arune Nokdhes of North Syracuse, Emma Rossman of Clay and Kyleigh Sweeney of Liverpool. The Dean’s List recognizes full-time undergraduate students who were registered for at least 12 computable credit hours and who earned a term grade point average of 3.6 or higher.
Area students named to SuNy canton President’s List
The following local SUNY Canton students have been named to the president’s list for the spring 2025 semester: Jack Taylor, a cybersecurity major from Cicero, Lily Jellison, a legal studies major from Clay, Olivia Rotundo, a criminal investigation major from Clay, Kat Taru, a physical therapist assistant major from Clay, Trix Baird, an applied psychology major from Liverpool, Jennifer Tolbert, an early childhood major from Liverpool, and Vincent Trousdale, a finance major from Liverpool.
Area students named to SuNy canton Dean’s List
The following local students were named to SUNY Canton’s Dean’s List for the spring 2025 Semester: Zac Kinnally, a cybersecurity major from Brewerton, Emilia Hayes, a cybersecurity major from Cicero, Aidan Kimpton, an information technology major from Clay, Brandon Marchitto, an automotive technology major from Clay, Nathan Lemery, a management major from Liverpool, Taiwo Ogunsola, a legal studies major from Liverpool, and Lance Phillips, a management major from Liverpool.
Area SuNy canton students receive Part-Time honors
The following local students received Part-Time Honors at SUNY Canton during the spring 2025 semester: Joe Allen, a crime analysis major from Liverpool and Alexis Graham, a Health Care Management major from Liverpool.
Local students named to Nazareth university Dean’s List
The following local Nazareth University students were named to the spring 2025 dean’s list: Riley Norris of Liverpool, Maria Kasarda of Cicero, Greta Hansen-Schwoebel of Liverpool, Aiden Meyer of Liverpool, Nathan Schultz of Brewerton, Katie Parker of Clay, Mikayla Avery of Liverpool, Jillian Cean of Clay, Julia Kulakowski of Clay, Meghan Moyer of Liverpool, Joseph Seliger of Cicero, Kayden Musengo of Liverpool, Erin Slusser of Clay, Natalina VanTassel of Clay, Solomon Panayil of Liverpool, Zachary Scott of Cicero, Gianna Tantalo of Liverpool, Anna Myers of Clay, Abigail Engler of Liverpool, and Jackson Fudge of Cicero. A student’s grade point average must be at least 3.5 or above, and they must complete 12 credit hours of graded work that semester in order to be included on the dean’s list at Nazareth.
Wieland graduates from the university of West Alabama
Heather Wieland of Cicero graduated from the University of West Alabama during spring commencement exercises held
l From page 1 Concerts
jazz scene and an experienced composer.
For instance, Donley wrote the tune “Padrino” for the Syracuse Area Music Award-winning band, Grupo Pagan.
Donley also works with longtime jazz bassist Ronnie France on France’s innovative new project called Bass on Top.
The “Latin Groove Connection is a jazz fusion band that incorporates Latin rhythms from all across South America to modern jazz, funk, rock’n’roll and all popular music styles. Wednesday’s audience will hear music from Duke Ellington to Herbie Hancock to Cream.
Besides Donley, the Connection features bassist Chris Colabello, Barry Blumenthal on piano and flugelhorn, drummer and co-founder Michael Cortese, saxophonist Joe Carello and special guest guitarist and singer Adam Fischer from the rock band Count Blastula.
The Fate-ettes park debut
The classic rock band Fate will be bolstered by four-part harmonies by the Fateettes, at 7 p.m. Wednesday July 9, as part of the summer series at Johnson Park.
in May on campus in Livingston. Wieland was awarded a Doctor of Education in rural education from the College of Education.
Wright named to Midway university Dean’s List
Abbie Wright of Cicero has been named to the Midway University Dean’s List for the 2025 Spring Semester.
To be named to the list, a student must be classified full-time and obtain a 3.60 grade point average for the semester.
Cochardo named to Springfield college Dean’s List
Carter Cochardo from Cicero has been named to Springfield College’s dean’s list for academic excellence for the 2025 spring semester.
Cochardo has a primary major of rec industries and therap rec.
Johnson named to James Madison university Dean’s List
Liverpool resident, Ava Johnson has been named to the dean’s list at James Madison University for the spring 2025 semester. Students who earn dean’s list honors must carry at least 12 graded credit hours and earn a GPA of between 3.5 and 3.899. Johnson is majoring in health sciences - BS.
Local students graduate from Buffalo State College
The following local students graduated from Buffalo State College in Fall 2024 and Spring 2025:
Trinity Battle of Liverpool graduated from Buffalo State University with a BS in Individualized Studies.
Josef Glamos of Baldwinsville graduated from Buffalo State University with a BS in Industrial Technology.
Jack Hyde of Liverpool graduated from Buffalo State University with a BA in Communication Studies.
Kyreshia Jackson of Liverpool graduated from Buffalo State University with a BS in Individualized Studies.
Riley Thorpe of Cicero graduated from Buffalo State University with a BFA in Interior Design.
Hahmier Williams-Borges of Liverpool graduated from Buffalo State University with a BS in Business Administration.
Local Students named to Russell Sage college Dean’s List
Bella Julian of Cicero and Julia Kolodzie of North Syracuse were named to the spring 2025 dean’s list at Russell Sage College.
Plumley named to dean’s list at university of Maryland Global campus
Kevin Plumley of Liverpool was named to the dean’s list for the spring 2025 term at University of Maryland Global Campus. To be eligible for the honor, a student must complete at least six credits during the term, earned a grade point average of at least 3.5 for the term, and maintained a cumulative GPA of 3.5 at UMGC.
Local students named to dean’s list at SUNY New Paltz for the spring 2025 semester, a recognition for students who excel academically and earn at least a 3.3 grade-point average in a semester with a full-time course load: Julia Barbour of Liverpool, Jordan Calhoun of Brewerton, Nicole Earle of Cicero, Angelica Gabriel of Liverpool, Lex Perkins of Brewerton, Cole Potrzeba of Liverpool and Molly Upah of Syracuse.
The Fate-ettes are Evelyn Rivera, Marylou Walker Hemings, Michele Terrinoni and Rose Marie Procopio Crisalli.
“These ladies are amazing,” said bandleader Tony Masterpol. “They’ve come a long way in a short period of time, and onstage they give the band a real ‘show’ feel.”
Fate also features bassist Jim Murphy, lead guitarist Tim Ryan, keyboardist Mark Wentworth and drummer Dr. Rick Krzyzak.
Masterpol sings lead and plays guitar.
“I couldn’t have asked for a better group of people to work and play with,” said Masterpol, a veteran of groups such as Garr-Lynd and Kane.
The bandleader also praised Fate’s soundman, John Gilmour.
“John and I have been together since high school,” he recalled.
Fate plays a wide variety of rock tunes from the 1960s through the ‘90s, including Beatles, Creedence Clearwater and Bruce Springsteen.
Now with the Fate-ettes on board, audiences are likely to hear a few girl-group hits as well.
Masterpol says it simply: “Fate is definitely a labor of love.”
Cicero Democrats announce town candidates
Did the players “Break The Bank” for $10,000?
e answer to the question is NO, but, they came close…again!
e 2nd Annual Senior Invitational, “Break e Bank Shootout” was hosted by the Lakeshore Yacht & Country Club last week. Head Golf Professional Jonny Petrin and his sta did an outstanding job of organizing and administering the somewhat complicated format for the “new” event that invited the “Top” senior male and female golfers in Central New York to compete for $10,000. To the best of my knowledge, it is the rst time in the long history of amateur golf in the United States that this type of format has been played and that 100% of the entry fees were distributed back to the players. e format is unique because all of the participants received “CASH” payouts for their participation in the event. It is not just for the top 5 or 6 players. Everyone had the opportunity to win “CASH” based on the number of points they earned for pars, birdies, eagles, holes-in-one, closest to the pin, leading money winners, and putts they had to make from 7 and 20 . e players competed in four age divisions and each player had “24” opportunities to share just over $9,200 in CASH” during their round. EVERYONE CASHED!
is event is now on the o cial annual schedule of the Central New York Senior Golf (CNYSG) consortium. Co-Comisioners, Don Christian and Ken Bodley are carrying the torch” for Pete Frank (who started it about 30 years ago), followed by Larry Duchaney and Phil Allen. I have o en mentioned on my radio show that the competitive amateur schedule in CNY is the nest I have ever seen, anywhere. I would like to praise one more individual who’s contribution to the event, on behalf of the CNYSG, earned her the “Most Valuable Player” award for the way she managed her many roles and responsibilities during the exciting event…Mary Ann Bodley, Ken’s wife. And thanks to Nancy Miller for her assistance with breakfast.
e days activities started at 8AM when Dr.Holly Noun, “Health and Performance Coach” for my radio show and Jason Pratt, physical therapist and Strength and Conditioning Specialist for weekend warriors of all ages to professional athletes, conducted “Pre-Round Preparation” and “A er Round Recovery” with FREE BEMER sessions. Incidentally, Barb Harrison, one of the players and a member of the Oswego Country Club, won the drawing to use a BEMER for one month…a $500 value.
At 8:15AM, Jack Conger, “4” Time Teacher of the Year for the CNY PGA, conducted a FREE Aim Point Putting Clinic on the very challenging putting surface of the 18th hole at Lakeshore. Jack informed those in attendance that approximately 60% of all
PGA players are now using some form of Aim Point Putting techniques in their pre-putt routine. e highlight of the evening for me was announcing that Phil Allen, long time successful amateur golfer in CNY and past president of the Syracuse District Golf Association (SDGA) was the recipient of the Bill Noun Humanitarian Award. Among Phil’s treasured trophies stands the “3” Match Play Championships that required him to win “12” consecutive matches during his stretch. Phil was also elected Grand Chief Sachem of the League of Iroquois that is the oldest Amateur Golf League in the world. So said, Grantland Rice, one of the greatest sports writers in history. e four clubs of the League include Oak Hill in Rochester, Wanakah in Bu alo, Yahnundasis in Utica and Bellevue in Syracuse. My brother Bill knew Phil and I believe with all my heart that he would be very happy Phil was selected.
e “Leading Money Winners” by divisions were… (Ages 55-64) - Kevin Vandenberg…(Ages 65-72)Don Christian…(Ages 73-83) - Mike Vinciguerra… and (Women’s Division)…Monica Hamilton. Monica also won last year. Special recognition goes to Kevin Vandenberg for shooting a round 65 and shattering the record for the largest “CASH” payout to a player. Also, you might be interested to know that Kevin is the highest ranking Senior Amateur Golfer in the United States. CONGRATULATIONS Kevin. CNY is fortunate to have a history of producing some of the best senior golfers in New York State and the country.
I, along with every member of the Noun Family are proud to be part of this unique event for the best senior male and female golfers in CNY and wish to thank Joe Convertino Jr., President of
Insurance and Co-Host of my radio show, for his friendship and assistance with the underwriting of this tournament. My brother Bill wrote this many years ago for his students as they moved on from Oswego
School through life.
“All
Submitted photo
At their June caucus, the Cicero Democratic Committee announced the election of two candidates for Cicero Town Board. Beth Kramer will seek a position as a town councilor, and Rob Santucci will run for the office of Cicero town supervisor. Kramer, who is an administrator in the Westhill school District, is also a member of the North syracuse Board of Education. she brings both educational and practical experience as a candidate.. santucci, the chair of the Cicero Democratic Committee, is a retired teacher in the North syracuse District, and a 45 year resident of Cicero. He is a former member of the Can-Teen Advisory Board, and the Cicero Historical society. The election for supervisor and town board members will be on November 4, 2025.
