Friday, December 8, 2023 Print Edition

The

TANGERINE

VOL. LXXVIl, ISSUE 7

FRIDAY, DECEMEMBER 8, 2023

UTICATANGERINE.COM

OT Department debuts Sensory room

Exit Interview: Mayor Robert Palmieri

Return to Form: Faithe Harris

NEWS | PG. 8

FEATURES | PG. 10

SPORTS| PG. 17

‘It’s time’: Clark Athletic Center to be renovated MICKALE THOMPSON EDITOR-IN-CHIEF, KAYDEN LAMPHERE SPECIAL ASSIGMENTS REPORTER ◊

When Utica University discounted its aquatics sports in June, former President Laura Casamento announced plans to repurpose the pool area as part of a larger renovation plan that would take place in the Harold T. Clark Athletic Center.

According to the Vice President of Facilities and Emergency Management Shad Crowe, the drainage is in preparation for a complete renovation of the athletic center.

“There are twentyfive athletic teams at Utica University,” Crowe said. “The Clark Athletic

The renovation cost for Harold T. Clark Athletic Center is estimated to cost between $8 million - $10 million. Luke Reed | Staff Photographer Center has limited space, and we are trying to re-evaluate the entire athletic center to try to determine what the future holds regarding

space utilization. We want to accommodate not only our entire athletics program but the Utica University community as a whole.”

C o n v e r s a t i o n s surrounding the renovation of the athletic center have been happening for some time, according to Crowe.

Utica University strategizing to improve graduation and retention rates

◊

SELMA DIZDAREVIC

NEWS EDITOR

The Office of Academic Affairs at Utica University is currently strategizing ways to improve graduation and retention rates and support student success.

A retention committee

composed of faculty, staff and students has been formed to drive the effort.

Retention rates are determined by the number of students who return to a university after their first year. According to the Department of

Education, the midpoint graduation rate for fouryear institutions is 58%. On that scale, Utica University falls just below at 54%. In 2022, the retention rate for first-time, full-time students was 73.4%. In 2019, it was 77.9%.

Dean of Student Success

Beth Samuels said a major factor contributing to lower graduation and retention rates is the university’s cost of attendance.

“The number one reason why students withdraw

CON. ON PAGE 6

PAGE 2

STAFF

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 8, 2023

Fall 2023 STAFF

@UticaTangerine @Utica_Tangerine @Utica_Tangerine

UTICATANGERINE.COM

Editor-In-Chief - Mickale Thompson Managing Editor - Diana Sidorevich Layout Editor - Chakradhar Palli News Editor - Selma Dizdarevic Features Editor - Charlie Buckley Online Editor - Emma Goodspeed Multimedia Editor - Kayleigh Sturtevant Special Assigments - Kayden Lamphere Sports Reporter - Nick Phillips Staff Photographer - Luke Reed Circulation Manager - Juan Garcia Circulation Manager - Michael Campbell Adviser - Mary Christopher

About The Tangerine is published biweekly during the academic year by and for Utica University students. To reach a member of the staff, email tanger@utica.edu or call 315-792-3065. All material printed in The Tangerine is copyrighted. The Tangerine was first published as the Utica College News on Nov. 6, 1946.

Submission Policy Letters to the editor are welcomed from all members of the Utica University community.

Letters must meet fair and accurate publishing standards and contain no libelous material.

Anonymous letters to the editor will not be printed. All letters and editorials must meet the print deadline of 5 p.m. on Mondays. Please send all submissions to tanger@utica.edu.

Takeback requests are a form of censorship and therefore not accepted.

Advertising Information The Tangerine accepts paid advertisements. Advertising copy is subject to the same professional publishing standards as content. The Tangerine reserves the right to reject advertising that does not meet the standards established, is libelous, is in poor taste or violates discrimination laws. Please direct all inquiries to tanger@utica.edu. The deadline for publication is 10 a.m. on Tuesdays.

The opinions and columns expressed in The Tangerine are those of the individual writers and do not represent the views of The Tangerine or Utica University.

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EDITORIAL

PAGE 3 FRIDAY, DECEMBER 8, 2023 ◊ MICKALE THOMPSON EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Seven hours and twentytwo minutes.

That’s how long it took to make this final issue.

However, the amount of time I’ve spent ensuring that the publication itself, not just its print editions, was the best it could be couldn’t be logged into the timesheet. For its editor, The Tangerine is an enigmatic task that unless you’ve experienced it firsthand you couldn’t understand the will and sheer determination it takes to get the job done.

Yet somehow when it came time to piece it together and put it to bed biweekly on a Wednesday I couldn’t help but wonder: what would go wrong?

I thought maybe I would have to drive back and make corrections after already submitting a final version. Or maybe I would have to be the DJ for the dance team while they held an entire practice session. In addition to the fact that maybe I would have to resend every single PDF due to always going back and changing something. Yes, all that happened. But my tenure at The Tangerine and time as its editor-in-chief is something I will cherish for the rest of my life — with no regrets.

But I couldn’t have done it without help nor without the people who were there every step of the way.

To Mary Our Work Mom: I can remember our first encounter four and a half years ago when I was a first-year student.

UTICATANGERINE.COM

From the Editor: My Letter to You

Though my aspirations of becoming a Tangerine writer didn’t materialize then you still believed in me. And a year later you gave me a shot. With that, I say: thank you for your nurturing these past few years.

Without you, I wouldn’t have had the confidence or the skill set to take on this great responsibility.

Through your belief, I was able to stand on my own two feet and lead this publication. But I always knew you were there to provide grace and guidance any and every time I needed it.

When we would talk about The Tangerine and journalism as a whole I always tried to pick your brain. In my classes, I learned about the profession but The Tangerine was truly my education, and you were my best teacher.

Because of your kindness and selfless personality, I learned to write with care not just vigor. I grew from someone with potential into a professional. That’s because of you. And I know you will continue to do the same for others.

To the Board:

157th

Editorial

The goal was to set the bar high and work at standard. We did that.

Throughout the semester we got better print-byprint and worked as a team to cover issues and topics in and outside the community.

We even welcomed a new president.

But what made this staff special wasn’t the nearly 100 pages of

content it produced but its ability to adapt. It was a new experience for all of us. We all found ourselves in new positions that created different expectations but we kept finding ways to make the most of it. Without your efforts, none of it would have been possible.

Therefore, Diana, thank you for working with me at the top. Selma, thank you for being an easy edit.

Charlie, your enthusiasm for The Tangerine represents the best of us. Kayden, you always turned in your articles on time, thank you. Nick, you always kept working on getting better. Emma, you jumped right into the mix — no questions asked and became an instant asset. Chakri, I know you will bring a different style and perspective to laying out the newspaper.

Kayleigh, your images brought much color to our newspaper. Luke, you always were ready to go. And last but certainly not least, to Micheal and Juan thank you for making sure each issue was always within reach.

I wish all of you the best going forward.

To the Community:

Campus

I want you to know that I didn’t hold back. I did everything I could to ensure that we reported the facts and left no stone unturned. I want you to know that I was relentless and fearless when it came to the craft and wasn’t afraid to ask the tough questions. I want you to know that I held people accountable and sparked change. I want

you to know that I did my best to make sure that you — the community — were never left in the dark. I want you to know that the people who work at this publication take the job seriously and pride themselves on perfection — each and every time.

Sure, we’re no different from any other newspaper. Over the years we’ve made our fair share of mistakes.

But we never hide from them. Instead, we made sure to face and correct them head-on because you, the public, deserve nothing less than a quality newspaper with a leader that echoes core foundational values built on the principle and the fundamentals of credibility.

But the job was never without pushback or disagreements. So while some may be reluctant to subscribe to The Tangerine due to past interactions or news coverages as a community we must preserve student journalism and show it full support because at the end of the day one of Utica University’s presidents said it best: “We must do this work, this is important work, it is important for the future of this university and for all of our students that we do this work, just because it creates some concern or some angst among the student, among a faculty member, it does not mean we can shy away and not do it. It’s too important.”

His name Pfannestiel.

was

Todd

PAGE 4

NEWS

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 8, 2023

UTICATANGERINE.COM

Campus Safety Blotter

Date Of Incident Time Of Incident

Short Description

Building

11/14/2023

2:47 PM

Alcohol Violation

Bell Hall

11/14/2023

2:02 PM

Alcohol Violation

Bell Hall

11/14/2023

1:50 PM

Alcohol Violation

Bell Hall

11/14/2023

12:39 PM

Prohibited Items

Alumni Hall

11/15/2023

9:00 AM

Fire Safety Inspections

Pioneer Village

11/15/2023

11:15 AM

Marijuana Violation

Boehlert Hall

11/15/2023

10:51 AM

Confiscated Items

Tower Hall

11/15/2023

10:59 AM

Confiscated Items

Tower Hall

11/15/2023

10:38 AM

Prohibited Item

Tower Hall

11/15/2023

9:46 AM

Prohibited Item

Pioneer Village

11/15/2023

9:27 AM

Alcohol Violation

Pioneer Village

11/15/2023

2:30 PM

Disruptive Behavior

Moses G. Hubbard Hall

11/15/2023

9:30 AM

Fire Safety Violation

Pioneer Village

11/16/2023

10:30 PM

Fire Alarm

North Hall

11/16/2023

10:15 AM

Prohibited items

Boehlert Hall

11/16/2023

9:33 AM

Prohibited Items

Boehlert Hall

11/17/2023

1:23 PM

Motor Vehicle Damage

Parking Lot

11/18/2023

2:00 AM

Harassment

North Hall

11/18/2023

8:30 PM

Noise Violation

South Hall

11/18/2023

11:20 PM

Alcohol Violation

Bell Hall

11/19/2023

1:50 AM

Fire Alarm

North Hall

11/19/2023

1:00 AM

Bias Incident

North Hall

11/20/2023

6:07 PM

Fire Alarm

Pioneer Village

11/20/2023

12:52 PM

Student of Concern

North Hall

11/20/2023

4:10 PM

Alcohol Violation

South Hall

11/21/2023

8:00 AM

Alcohol Violation

Tower Hall

11/21/2023

7:00 PM

Fire Safety Violations

North Hall

11/21/2023

7:45 PM

Odor of Marijuana

Bell Hall

11/21/2023

8:32 PM

Fire Safety Violation

Tower Hall

11/21/2023

8:33 PM

Fire Safety Violations

Pioneer Village

11/22/2023

7:00 AM

Fire Safety Violation

North Hall

11/27/2023

6:05 PM

Odor of Marijuana

South Hall

11/27/2023

9:30 PM

Damage to Property

North Hall

NEWS

PAGE 5 FRIDAY, DECEMBER 8, 2023 POOL FROM PAGE 1 “Originally, the conversation had been happening sporadically before I even arrived here,” Crowe said. “A lot of it is pretty old. The building was built in the 1970s, and while not everything in it is from the 1970s, some of it needs to be renovated. There are infrastructural things there that people don’t see, behind the walls and on top of the building, that really need attention.”

Updating and renovating the building is one of the university’s top priorities, Crowe said.

The first step the university plans on taking is hiring engineers to survey the building and then move to request for proposals from engineers in the next 30 days.

“Part of the proposal will be giving a significant engineering study about the entire structure and its capability to be renovated and

reassigned, in addition to the cost for all of those changes and upgrades,” he said.

The cost is something Vice President for Advancement Amy Lindner plans to tackle through fundraising.

“We are in the midst of a five-year, $30 million capital campaign called ‘Thrive On,’ ” Linder said. “One of the primary buckets of that campaign is the Clark Athletic Center.”

The athletic center was supposed to have been renovated before now, according to Lindner, however, the COVID-19 pandemic caused plans to change.

“We originally had a budget of about $5 million for the project,” she said.

“The initial plan was to build an addition to the Clark Athletic Center to provide additional locker room space. Then, COVID hit, and with that came

UTICATANGERINE.COM

supply chain issues and an increased price tag of around $8-9 million.”

After taking a step back during the pandemic, fundraising is now set to resume, though not until a formal proposal is put together and presented, Lindner said.

“Since we don’t have a plan to put in front of donors, it is very hard to ask them to donate to something that they don’t know what it looks like,” Lindner said. “Once that Request for Proposal (RFP) is out and we have the feedback from the architectural design, I think that fundraising efforts will begin in earnest.”

Currently, Lindner estimates the budget for the project to be between $5 million - $8 million.

With ideas being thrown around about what to do with the pool space, some of them included conversations about

replacing it, redesigning the space for something else or building separate buildings, Crowe said.

“Depending on what may or may not be done, others may have access to the space if appropriate,” Utica’s Athletic Director Dave Fontaine said. “Some examples of current shared utilization would be our gym classroom, the Kunath Fitness Center or the Todd and Jen Hutton Sports and Recreation Center.

Although those areas fall under the umbrella of athletics, others have access to the facilities.

For right now the facilities department is hoping to present a proposal to the campus by June or July, according to Crowe.

“It’s time, time for a total evaluation,” Crowe said. “There are massive repairs that need to be made and considered.”

PAGE 6

NEWS

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 8, 2023

GRADUATION FROM PAGE 1

from Utica is cost,” she said. “That’s just plain and simple. It comes down to cost and dollars and cents.”

According to Samuels, the committee is currently in the “investigative stage.”

Members are examining and analyzing retention and graduation rates for all Utica University students, including traditional undergraduates, online students, graduate students and those at the Florida campus.

and Social Sciences Dr. Jason Denman said individualized plans for students’ success are being prioritized for the future.

“We want to individualize everything we do as much as possible,” he said. “I think [Utica] is built on that basic principle.”

An individualized approach allows for the university to “troubleshoot a student’s route” and cater to each student’s needs, whether they want to graduate at a quicker pace or a

UTICATANGERINE.COM

slower one.

“We need to guarantee graduation,” Samuels said. “We need to work with each student in an individualized and personable way.

If a student wants to graduate in three years and they are academically able and capable of doing that, let’s support that student in doing a three-year plan.”

The research and planning will continue for the retention committee and other

offices at the university that handle student success until formal recommendations are made in May 2024.

“I hope we improve both our retention and graduation rates--and I think I speak for my colleagues on the Joint Cabinet when I say that,” said Dr. Ann Damiano, vice president for institutional effectiveness and dean for academic assessment. “President Todd [Pfannestiel] wants an 80% retention rate for this year’s cohort. I think we can do it.”

“The retention committee is divided into subcommittees,” Samuels said. “Each subcommittee is kind of doing our own research on ‘what’s the student experience like in regards to academic performance and satisfaction, what is the student experience like outside of the classroom [as] in athletics [and] in the residence halls.’”

While the university is unable to control how much federal aid a student receives, Samuels said the committee is focusing on factors within their control.

“We are looking at what are the other things Utica controls [such as] the quality of education, student life, student engagement [and] academic performance,” she said.

Co-Chair of the Retention Committee and Dean of Humanities

According to the Department of Education, the midpoint graduation rate for four-year institutions is 58%. On that scale, Utica University falls just below at 54%. Graph courtesy of Utica’s Office of Institutional Effectiveness

NEWS

PAGE 7 FRIDAY, DECEMBER 8, 2023

UTICATANGERINE.COM

Utica adapts therapy platform ‘UWILL” to diversify counseling options ◊ KAYDEN LAMPHERE SPECIAL ASSIGMENTS REPORTER As the Fall 2023 semester winds down, many students might find themselves under stress for a plethora of reasons, but may not have the time to schedule an in-person counseling session.

Uwill, a platform for online counseling, was recently adopted by Utica University to help provide therapy for those in need who may not be comfortable with the inperson experience.

Ariel Rios, the executive director of the Health and Wellness Center, said the partnership came as a result of Uwill’s positive reputation.

“They are one of the leading providers in collegiate therapy services,” Rios said.

“They really specialize in college mental health.

Their clinicians are very well versed in issues that college students have.”

Despite the naming convention, Uwill is not a Utica University exclusive program, Rios said, as plenty of other universities have contracts for their services.

According to Rios, the contract between Utica University and Uwill allows students to have sessions with a counselor via phone, virtual platforms or text chat.

“It supplements what we are able to provide

Two people on the ground hugging each other. // Courtesy of The Tangerine’s photo file on the counseling side here,” Rios said.

“Our counselors are in person or virtual, but oftentimes we have limitations around the hours of availability. With Uwill, you can have an appointment at any time, since they have people that work all hours.”

Maria Klosek, a clinical counselor at Utica University, said the service’s counselors are unique in that they are college therapists not tied to a college.

“The therapists there don’t work for a school,” Klosek said. “They can work anywhere in the country since they are licensed. So, with Uwill,

you can choose any type of therapist.

Jacqueline Jones, one of Uwill’s counselors, hopes that college students recognize their stress and know that they can reach out for help, as it is available to them.

“I know that the transition to college can be challenging as are the demands and rigor of college courses,” she said. “It helps to be able to talk to someone when feeling overwhelmed in order to manage your emotions.”

According to Jones, student responses have been positive thus far, with many feeling comfortable in the amount of choice

they are given when it comes to selecting their therapist.

“We know some students prefer in-person counseling, while others enjoy the privacy, flexibility and choice that Uwill offers,” Jones said.

“Ultimately, our goal is to ensure as many students as possible receive the help they need.”

Utica University’s contract with Uwill allows students to have eight free sessions per semester, according to Rios.

For more information, contact the Health and Wellness Center (hwc@utica. edu), or visit the Uwill website at app.uwill. com.

PAGE 8

NEWS

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 8, 2023

UTICATANGERINE.COM

Utica University OT department debuts new ‘sensory room’ ◊

SELMA DIZDAREVIC

NEWS EDITOR

Faculty and students within the occupational therapy program at Utica University have created a space where members of the campus community can destress and relax by tapping into their senses. The sensory room is located in Gordon 272 and is open to all students, faculty and staff at the university.

Unveiled this semester, the sensory room offers a calm environment full of ambient lighting, soothing visuals and multi-sensory technology. Individuals on campus in need of a mindful minute can stop in during the weekly open hours posted on the door, sign in with their name, review safety procedures and enjoy the assortment of cushioned seating and gentle sensory stimulations.

“Part of occupational therapy is we look at how people function in their environment and we look at how their sensory systems are functioning in their environment,” said Cicily Talerico, professor of occupational therapy.

“There’s a lot of research out there that shows these multisensory rooms are very calming and you can use them with a lot of different populations of people.”

An assortment of multisensory equipment is

stationed in the room, including a bubble tube with “multicolored features,” vibrating chairs that “hook up to the speaker” and a swing. An LED light tunnel, a stargazer that projects the night sky onto the ceiling, and a visual projector are other features of the room.

“There’s different pieces of equipment in there for all seven senses,” Talerico said.

A variety of people can benefit from sensory stimulation, including those with dementia, mental health issues and developmental disorders.

According to Talerico, sensory rooms are often used in children’s hospitals and memory care units where patients can receive helpful “sensory input” when under stress or trauma.

“A lot of times people go in there agitated or frustrated or have a lot of anxiety and they will go into the multisensory rooms and they will calm,” Talerico said. “It just helps calm their sensory systems so then they’re able to function again in their environment.”

The initiative to open the sensory room at Utica University began over a year ago. Talerico said the department was in part inspired by the growing presence of sensory rooms in local hospitals, which led to seeking support for the

Three OT students who staff the sensory room. // Courtesy Professor Talerico. project.

“What we did is we had an initial fundraiser,” she said. “We raised a couple thousand dollars from our alumni to help support the sensory room. It took about a year for us to get it.”

Several students in the occupational therapy program have been trained on how to use the sensory room and host open hours for the campus community.

The room also hosts autistic students from the Kelberman Center in Utica once or twice a week and provides a place where faculty can teach classes.

“I enjoy using the sensory room, let alone providing the ability

for other students on campus to use it,” said Mackenzie Bonyak, an occupational therapy student who operates the sensory room. “It is a place where anyone can reduce stress, get work done or get any sensory input they may need throughout the day.”

In addition to being able to use the fun, glowing equipment, Bonyak said a great part of the sensory room is the happiness it brings to those who use it.

“My favorite thing about the sensory room is the joy it brings to many students,” she said. “And how excited they get when walking through the door after seeing the lights and equipment.”

NEWS

PAGE 9 FRIDAY, DECEMBER 8, 2023

UTICATANGERINE.COM

Parking violations increased in handicapped spaces earlier in September ◊ DIANA SIDOREVICH MANAGING EDITOR

At the beginning of each semester, Campus Safety saw an uptick in vehicle traffic and parking violations such as speeding, going through stop signs and unlawfully parking in handicapped or maintenance spaces.

Vice President of Facilities and Emergency Management Shad Crowe said the Strebel circle is the most common place of violation because of its proximity to the bookstore and dining hall.

When reviewing security footage from Strebel circle, almost every time someone unlawfully parks in those spaces, someone parks near the wrongfully parked car soon after, “and it’s clear they needed the spot that’s being taken by this person who doesn’t have a need for the accommodation,” Crowe said. Students, faculty and staff have been guilty at various times of wrongful parking

in handicapped spaces.

those spots,” Crowe said.

“Occasionally mistakes are made across the entire community,” he said. “It’s not restricted to just one group.”

In September, the campus safety team focused on making sure that wasn’t happening.

Comerford said when unlawful parking continued from the education phase in September into the early part of October, campus safety booted a few cars with repeated violations.

The boot is secured on a car’s wheel, forcing the driver to go to Campus Safety who remove the boot after speaking with the violator.

Crowe said most violations occur when someone parks unlawfully due to a temporary medical condition.

Director of Campus Safety Roberta Comerford said in those cases, campus safety can educate students on how to go about obtaining temporary permission to park in those spaces legally.

Students and employees need to have a doctor’s note for campus safety to be aware of the necessary parking accommodations because, in some cases, wrongful parking in handicapped spaces is intentional, according to Comerford.

“The problem with parking in those spots is we actually have people who work and are students here that need

“We want to educate.

We really don’t want to be the bad guys,” she said. “We want people just to do the right thing and if they’re not sure, to come talk to us.”

The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) requires the university to have a certain number of handicapped parking spots based on the total parking spots on campus. Crowe said the university’s number of handicapped parking spots exceeds the

suggested amount by the ADA to make sure there is plenty of parking for those who need the accommodation.

Some colleges have local police agencies patrolling their campuses, said Crowe, and should there be a police officer on campus who has witnessed the violation, they are within the bounds of the law to write a ticket and hold the violator accountable in the courts of law.

However, Utica does not have a police agency patrolling the campus.

Students are initially warned and given a $50 fine by campus safety for parking in these spaces but are sent to student conduct if the violation is repeated.

Once a student receives a third parking ticket, they are referred to student conduct and the Director of Community Standard Carl Lohmann.

Students usually adjust and Lohmann said he rarely sees students a second time.

FEATURES

PAGE 10 FRIDAY, DECEMBER 8, 2023

UTICATANGERINE.COM

Mayor Palmieri reflects on serving Utica for three terms ◊ DIANA SIDOREVICH MANAGING EDITOR

Robert Palmieri is a graduate of Thomas R. Proctor High School and Mohawk Valley Community College.

Before his 12-year tenure as Utica’s mayor, Palmieri served as a member of Utica’s Common Council, Deputy Public Safety Commissioner and Codes Commissioner. His roots are Utica, hence his slogan, ‘Utica Starts With You,’ and the goal of his mayoral tenure—to grow Utica into “the best little city in America.”

Palmieri’s term will end on Dec. 31. He will be followed by Republican Mike Galime starting Jan. 1, 2024.

Tangerine Managing Editor Diana Sidorevich sat down with Palmieri for a question and answer session in reflection of his service to the city.

Transcriptions have been edited for clarity.

Q: When you began your term in 2012, what was the biggest challenge you faced as a new mayor?

A: The biggest challenge was day one realizing while working with my budget director Peter Fiorillo, who is no longer with us but was a brilliant man. We were facing bankruptcy. There were no reserves. Our fund balance was at -$15,000.

We were downgraded by all three of the rating agencies (Moody’s, Standard & Poor’s and

Fitch). New York State rated us at a high level of fiscal stress, roughly 75 out of 100. There was very little economic development going on.

We had 13 commercial buildings that we owned.

It was a very eye-opening experience.

We sat down as a department and determined what was our best course of action before meeting with State Comptroller Thomas P. DiNapoli. We had two ways we could handle it: through having a control board come in and doing whatever they decide to on their or by tightening our boots and making some very difficult decisions to put a plan together. We put a plan together, which was very difficult, to cut the workforce by roughly 20%.

Unfortunately, fire, police, codes, DPW, parks, and all departments throughout the entire city had to be cut, and we raised taxes on top of that, to make our revenues equal to our expenditures. That was extremely difficult. The decision was based on previous administrations not keeping their eye on the ball. At this point we went from -$15,000 in the hole to a fund balance of $14.2 million surplus, we’ve been upgraded by all three of the rating agencies, we sold all 13 commercial buildings and our stress level now with New York State is 0.

Q: What did you enjoy most about the job?

A: The biggest enjoyment is working with people, making very difficult decisions for the right reasons, leaving politics at the footstep and doing what is right for the residents. People often ask me, are you a Republican or a Democrat? My response is, I’m a Utican. That’s my first and foremost mission, to make sure that we do what’s best for the community, best for quality of life and best to move the city forward.

You’re not going to make everybody happy.

I think if we look at 2012 and 2023, it’s a different city.

Q: What were your goals as mayor?

A: I always felt that Utica could be better than it was. In my past, I was in marketing and sales and traveled throughout the northeast. I used to be disappointed when I saw other communities growing and I felt that [Utica] was stagnant. I think a lot of decisions were more political than for the best interest of Utica. My personality is one that was not going to waver from my decisions politically or through personal agendas. The people believed in me and they voted for me and I was going to give them everything that I had to turn the city around. I look at myself as being unpolitical and just doing the right thing.

I think the results have paid off.

Q: What are you most proud of in your time serving as Utica’s mayor?

A: It’s building relationships on a federal and state level. It’s my department heads and every employee believing in my passion and my intensity. It’s putting a team together and it was a winning team. It took a little time for them to understand that it could be accomplished if we all work together. Looking back, it was everyone really rowing in the same direction, and I think that’s imperative when you have a winning team—it could be in sports or art, whatever it may be, you have to have people believe in you, and I think people believe in our leadership.

Q: What are your thoughts on youthful engagement in city politics?

A: I think it’s imperative.

Just listening to kids, whether it be the Youth Bureau or the common council of T.R. Proctor (High School), as we do street sweeps and we’re reaching out and talking to everybody, people want to feel like they’re a part of the progress.

It’s all people. Not some people. Everyone wants to be able to be part of it. It’s very important that you listen to everyone because I could see things differently from a young person, and that difference could be the difference of success or

FEATURES

PAGE 11 FRIDAY, DECEMBER 8, 2023 failure. Always keep your table. We’ve engaged eyes and ears open to with our youth, MVCC, listen.

Utica University and even [College].

I Q: What are some areas Hamilton think it’s so important where you hope to see college students or young that we keep the lines of open. people more involved in communication If you want to retain the city? people to stay here when A: I think the more that they come, you have to they feel accepted, listen to their positive and the more that they feel negative experiences and involved and I think we not to be afraid of change. brought that to the table. Change is painful. People We had more access are very comfortable and inclusion than we’ve where they are and I think ever had in the city and that sometimes you have that was because of to be a leader and you bringing everyone to the

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have to look at change as an opportunity, not as a threat.

come here and feeling accepted and having their employees feel that Q: What do you hope to this is a city that they could see in Utica’s future as a call home because they are comfortable here. new mayor steps in?

A: I want to see a Q: Do you have anything continuation of our you’d like to add? growth. I want to see a continuation of building bridges with our community, our diverse population. I think that has been and will always be a selling point for anyone, how diverse we are as a city. I think that is a catalyst for companies looking to

A: I think that the 12 years has been beyond my expectations and my love for the residents, it’s been outstanding. I can’t put words together of how rewarding it is and how proud I am of our city.

Mayor Robert Palmieri in Utica City Hall’s conference room. // Photo: Diana Sidorevich

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A chance at the American Dream: Meet Juhi Ketan Lalka ◊ CHARLIE BUCKLEY FEATURES EDITOR

Juhi Ketan Lalka strived to live the typical American dream, and since early childhood, she has been doing everything she can to fulfill it. In 2019, Lalka finally got her chance when she came to America to visit a friend in San Francisco.

“That’s when I was even more sure that America is where I want to do my master’s and bring my dream to life,” Lalka said.

She came to America from India after earning a bachelor’s degree in visual communication along with a master’s degree in mass communication.

She worked for 11 years, earning a postgraduate in international business.

During this time she got married and moved to a new city, but that didn’t crush the drive to live the American Dream.

“I was most excited when I came to know that I was going to New York, but little did I know that Utica was a small city in New York State,” Lalka said. “I was taken aback by seeing the typical laid-back life here at Utica, but the university campus was full of fun and frolic.”

Lalka said even though she was happy to finally be in America, she faced challenges like homesickness and finding proper accommodations.

“I did face some major panic attacks due to living alone and feeling homesick, but I was blessed to have such good friends and faculty who filled up the void,” Lalka said.

Another challenge she faced was finding the proper dietary needs for herself when she came to Utica.

“I am a vegetarian and I have had a tough time finding vegetarian food at most public places, except for some sweet dishes and snacks,” Lalka said.

She ended up choosing Utica for her master’s program because it offered a hybrid business analytics course.

“The course being hybrid allows one to concentrate on their studies and at the same time make use of the opportunities available on campus. It makes me manage my time efficiently,” Lalka said.

One of the biggest things her time at Utica has taught her is how to make decisions on her own, she said. She hopes to contribute to the campus community during her stay here and says being hired as a community advisor is a milestone for her.

“I am great with my communication skills, and I work as a Community Advisor at one of the halls at the university,” Lalka said. “This gives me an opportunity to

Juhi Lalka at the Taj Mahal. // Photo courtesy Juhi Ketan Lalka.

talk to a lot of people and get to know them.

This is the best chance I could have had to learn American culture and show off my culture.”

Lalka hopes that her time at Utica will not only give her more education and knowledge but also a chance to make longlasting friendships and to learn to do business in a more international setting. This will help her set up her own business in a better global manner, she said. She advises students considering studying abroad to take the opportunity.

“This is your chance and I urge them to take it up,” Lalka said. “Not everyone is blessed to be granted a visa to the United States, so if you have one, make sure to use it to its optimum.

Secondly, the U.S. sets the Western standard for education and lifestyle worldwide, so it’s the

best way to grasp it firsthand.”

Lalka plans to return home after she finishes her education.

“Academically I feel my life is going to be a learning experience throughout. I am always going to keep studying something new,” Lalka said. “Personally, I am more than excited to go back home after my education and implement all that I have learned in my new business.”

Lalka’s friend Vernon Dcunha said that her friend is very engaged in class.

“I consider her a good friend of mine, and she’s a decent classmate as well,” said Vernon Dcunha, a graduate student and classmate of hers in business analytics.

“She’s very passionate in her leadership classes as it’s a topic she enjoys learning.”

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Host family to second family: Strong bonds abroad uncontrollable laughter and storytelling of our pasts. We got to share and understand one another’s values and culture, creating a tightlyknit bond between us.

The most memorable dinners were on Sundays, when my host family had barbecues in the backyard. I felt an incredible sense of belonging among the whole family, including their three sons. We all enjoyed delicious food together, such as grilled plantains, steak and pumpkin soup, all while upbeat traditional music played in the background. My roommates and I always convinced them to play Bad Bunny at the end of the night.

Breannan O’Hara, center, stands with her host parents, Alberto and Marcela, in Costa Rica. // Photo courtesy of Breannan O’Hara. ◊ BREANNAN O’HARA GUEST WRITER

Living with a host family was nerve-racking at first, but it turned out to be my favorite experience while studying abroad.

The experience has given me a different perspective on family life after knowing only North American norms. One new value I am very grateful for is

slowing down the pace of our hectic lives and spending quality time with loved ones.

Since day one, my host family and I have sat down at the dining table for at least an hour for breakfast and dinner, always starting with a “Buenos dias” and ending with a “Buenas noches.”

Those times have been filled with

My host mom, Marcela, is an incredible artist and is passionate about painting. She hosts a painting class for friends, neighbors, and relatives on Wednesday evenings and includes me as part of the family. We chat and paint Christmasthemed decorations together.

Marcela loves the holidays and has filled the house with her handcrafted decorations, full of sparkle and magic.

My host dad, Alberto, has never failed to put a smile on my face. He helped me through the language barrier by making hilarious facial expressions and gestures, like we were playing charades. His rooster

impression is one of my favorites because the neighbor has one that crows every morning. The animal sounds used here differ completely from America, so I was very confused as to what he was mimicking when he was saying “kitty, kitty, kitty” at first. We gave him the nickname El Rey, the king.

We often took trips to the local farmer’s markets, grabbing fresh fruit that would complement our breakfast. There were countless stands, the market looking like a rainbow with all the vibrant colors. Marcela and Alberto informed me of all the exotic fruits with unique shapes and flavors, and we would end our nights with a sweet treat from Pops, a famous ice cream shop here.

From the day I arrived, I have been welcomed with open arms. The love and support I have received from my host parents made me feel right at home.

Despite all of the cultural challenges, my relationship with them has developed into one similar to a real family.

Our goodbyes will be hard, but I will cherish my time living here forever.

This is Breannan O’Hara’s final column of the fall semester. O’Hara, a junior, studied in Costa Rica from September through December.

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OP-ED: Black Student Union hosts spirited 34th annual Kwanzaa ◊ JONAS AMERICA GUEST WRITER It was truly heartening to see students, faculty, staff, alumni and community members join together at Donahue Concourse to freestyle in dance.

The Black Student Union(BSU) hosted a Kwanzaa Celebration on Sat, Dec. 2, an event they’ve hosted for 34 consecutive years.

Kwanzaa is an annual week-long celebration from Dec. 26 - Jan. 1.

The secular holiday was created by the pan-African family to celebrate the influence of social values they uphold.

Keynote speaker and alumnus Dr. Henry Spring Jr., explained the seven principles in his presentation: unity (umoja), selfd e t e r m i n a t i o n (kujichagulia), collective responsibility (ujima), cooperative economics (ujamaa), purpose (nia), creativity (kuumba) and faith (imani).

“They’re common principles, reasonable principles that if we lived by, I think there’d be a lot more peace in the world,” attendee Natalie M. Williams said.

For each day in the week, people bring items that represent the principles and light a new candle on the kinara, candleholder, BSU’s historian Xavier Moore said during his presentation on the history of Kwanzaa.

“It represents our traditions and our culture and who we’ve become up to

this point,” Moore said.

“I think acknowledging that and having the time to celebrate and be here for each other is a symbolization of that.”

The evening featured music, conversations, sharing of culture and knowledge.

BSU recognized the hard work of those putting on the event, presenting awards to members, advisors, faculty, staff and administrators. Everyone beamed with joy and pride. Laughs and hugs were exchanged.

The community shared the culture and music that was presented with a partnership Utica Royalties Inc, a local nonprofit founded by Hawa and James Peters. They have been a part of Utica’s Kwanzaa Celebration for the past three years.

This year’s event kicked off with a traditional drumming beat played by James Peters, accompanied by assistant professor of history Dan Cozart alongside three young men who are members of Utica Royalties. They shared a choreographed dance, one of their newest members sang a song, and they ended the night by inviting everyone to join in on a dance.

and don’t forget who you are. You are more powerful than you think.

You just have to embrace it.”

cultures, and that’s what we’re doing here,” BSU president Leah Griffin said.

“You make this event, not us.”

BSU coordinated with two local NAACP/Oneida County Poet Laureate winners, Williams and Jainaba Janneh, to share beautiful, moving pieces they had written.

BSU Advisor Mark Kovacs praised those involved in making the night happen with a special shout out to the BSU members.

Attendees could write a letter addressed to “Dear Black People: A Love Letter to the Culture.” BSU members collected them to place around the BSU room to remember the Kwanzaa celebration.

Everyone involved shared a love for the community, the culture, and the fact that a lot of people came together to celebrate and connect with one another.

“It’s really important to celebrate diverse

“It was a lot of work and overwhelming at times, but we pulled together and we got it done,” BSU Vice President Michelle Holland said. “I’m really proud of us.”

Attendees enjoyed the soul food provided by Sodexo. It was a wonderful event to have been a part of and they made everyone feel welcome.

BSU Treasurer Ashley Tavarez invited students to join BSU and attend Apollo Night, which BSU hosts in the spring.

“What we always like to do, which is kind of like our signature, is to get the crowd involved in the dance,” Peters said.

She motivated attendees: “Don’t forget where you come from.

Don’t forget your roots

The 34th annual Kwanzaa celebration took place on Dec. 2. // Photo Jonas America

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Campus literary magazine calls for submissions and staff ◊

SELMA DIZDAREVIC

NEWS EDITOR

Utica University’s literary magazine, Ampersand, is now taking submissions for poetry, prose, drama, digital art and photography until Jan. 31. The publication is also seeking staff in various areas to assist with the magazine’s production.

Ampersand, published each spring semester, provides an opportunity for members of the campus community to publish pieces of their work, gain valuable skills and experience as staff members and earn monetary awards.

“We

publish

poetry,

fiction, creative nonfiction, drama, photography and artwork produced by members of our Utica community–primarily students, but also staff, faculty, and recent graduates,” said Dr. Kelly Minerva, professor of English and Ampersand advisor.

“Submissions that are accepted for publication are also eligible for Joseph E. Vogel Awards, which are cash prizes awarded to first and second place prose pieces, and the first and second place poems.”

Students can submit up to 10 pieces of original artwork to Ampersand

for consideration, upon which editors will read and evaluate submissions. According to Minerva, work submitted “must not contain graphic sexual or violent content” or “material promoting discrimination or stereotypes.” For the consideration of prose pieces, they “should be no longer than 15 pages.”

For students interested in working with Ampersand behind-the-scenes, there are open opportunities to help with marketing, submission review, proofreading and digital design from now until early March.

“Creative writing and art always offer opportunities for writers, artists and their audiences to understand the world and Ampersand showcases the creative voices of our Utica University’s community and our unique stories and perspectives,” Minerva said. “Reading the magazine and helping publish it are opportunities to amplify the voices and creativity of others, while contributing work to the magazine is a unique opportunity to publish your creative work and gain recognition with a local audience.”

Faculty Trivia: Associate Professor of History Clemmie Harris ◊

ELEANOR BERKHOUDT

CONTRIBUTIING WRITER

Dr. Clemmie Harris is an associate professor of history who is currently running for New York’s 22nd District Congressional seat. If elected in 2024, he will represent cities including Syracuse, Utica and Rome in the U.S. House of Representatives.

But here are six facts you probably didn’t know about Harris

1.) Harris served in the

United States Army as a staff sergeant with the designation of drill sergeant - where they were responsible for developing, maintaining, and utilizing

soldiers’ potential. His time serving in the U.S. Army allowed him to push himself to new limits.

2.) He also worked as

a criminal investigator for the New York State Police, enforcing state penal law. Harris worked in a broad realm of law enforcement as he was involved in several areas of expertise.

He aided in hostage negotiations in addition to the investigation of narcotics, and biasrelated and hate crimes.

3.) Harris is the coeditor of Pennsylvania Magazine of History and Biography (PMHB), a peer-reviewed academic journal covering the history

of Pennsylvania. It has been published by the Historical Society of Pennsylvania since 1877, taking a scholarly approach to state and local history, industry, genealogy, culture and related subjects.

4.) He is the lead author

of the book “If There Is No Struggle, There Is No Progress: Black Politics in Twentieth-Century Philadelphia.” The book provides an in-depth historical analysis of the people and movements that made Philadelphia a center of political activism. It focuses on the impact that Black activism in Philadelphia had on the development of Black politics across

the nation.

5.) Over the past 40 years, Harris helped many students navigate their lives and careers.

His dedication to being a mentor to students, even after they have graduated, is driven by their value of potential.

He does not like potential to be wasted.

6.) In 2018, he received

a humanitarian award from K. Della Ferguson’s Women’s Resource Center. Humanitarian is a perfect way to describe Harris; his inclination to promote human welfare is evident through his dedication to public service.

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After two years away from the sport, Faithe Harris is ready to start her Utica career ◊

NICK PHILLIPS

SPORTS REPORTER

Growing up in a small town in British Columbia, transfer student Faithe Harris said the only thing to do was play hockey. Even though her hometown is more than 40 hours away from Utica, the transition was not difficult.

When Harris turned 15, she decided to attend an academy to play hockey that was around eight hours away. She moved on to the Ontario Hockey Academy (OHA) two years later.

“Ontario Hockey Academy had a very strict regime which included practice, workout, school, and a weekend of sometimes up to five games,” she said. “It enabled me to completely focus on the game and feel how intense college will be.

After my three years spent at academies, I feel they set me up for success here at Utica.”

The transition from Manhattanville College to Utica was a completely different experience, Harris said. From the teammates to the coaches and the overall culture of the team, Harris said Utica is the better fit for her.

“We have a close-knit team and the bond everyone has with each other is special,” Harris said. “Every girl on this team is positive and a joy to be around. Not only are the people better, but the facility is better, the school itself is better and

Faithe Harris transferred from Manhattanville in Spring 2022. // Photo courtesry of Maxwell LeBuis the coaching is better.”

Harris said she is proud to be playing hockey again.

After leaving Manhattanville in the spring of 2021, she stayed home in Canada to focus on herself and her mental health after the experiences she endured at Manhattanville. She joined the Utica women’s team this fall. Harris said she’s proud of herself because it takes a lot out of a person mentally and physically to get back into a sport after that much time off.

When it comes to being a teammate, the junior defenseman usually tries to be herself and to leave whatever issues she may be dealing with at the door.

“The girls in the locker room are going through the same things I am so I feel we all have a good understanding of each other,” Harris said. “If I am

having a bad day, I know to try my best to not show that to the girls, because they all have a busy schedule and are most likely overwhelmed.”

She described a good teammate as someone who supports one another, does not get jealous of another teammate and pushes everyone to get better as a player. In the eyes of sophomore forward Kaci Ryder, it seemed as if Harris had described herself.

“Faithe always comes to the rink with a smile on her face. She is so easy to get along with and always brings so much positivity to practice,” Ryder said.

“Faithe works so hard during practice and always gives 100% effort.

She is someone you want to be around.”

Harris might always be smiling at practice but she comes ready to push her teammates to the best of

their ability.

“If I’m having a hard day and not very confident in myself, I know I can go to Faithe for help,” Ryder said. “She is always going to reassure you that you’re a good player and even give you good advice if there’s things you could work on. Faithe is an inspiring player as she’s always going to push others to want to work hard.”

Whenever Harris is in a slump or feeling down, she thinks about why she is there, how she got there and what’s to come in the future.

She added: “I think about all of the hundreds, honestly thousands of hours I have spent in rinks, and how grateful I am to have been given another opportunity to play college hockey.”

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On Dec. 1 Utica (6-1-3, 5-0-1 United Collegiate Hockey Conference) beat Stonehill College (0-16, 0-5 Northeast Athletic Conference) 7-2 in its 19th annual Teddy Bear Toss game. Photo Kayleigh Sturtevant / The Tangerine

On Nov. 18 Utica (9-2, 4-2 Empire 8) beat Hobart College (8-3, 4-2 LIberty League)10-6 in the ECAC Clayton Champman Bowl game. Photo Kayleigh Sturtevant / The Tangerine

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Best of 2023: Photographed by Kayleigh Sturtevant

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Sean Behan returns to Utica as new head lacrosse coach ◊

JAMES BOSS

CONTRIBUTING WRITER

Sean Behan, Utica University’s new head lacrosse coach, has a long history with the sport. He was introduced to lacrosse at a young age while growing up in Syracuse and began playing in third grade after watching his older cousin play at West Genesee High School, one of the powerhouse teams in the area.

Behan played a lot of sports growing up but lacrosse always stuck with him more than anything else.

“Lacrosse was always a little bit different and it was always the one I looked forward to,” Behan said.

He attended JamesvilleDewitt High School, where he continued his lacrosse career. At that time, the team was one of the best programs in the nation, going 44-0 and winning back-to-back New York State championships during his two years on the varsity team.

“A lot of guys that I played with were blue chip, Syracuse recruits… and it really paved the way for me to be able to play at the next level,” he said.

His playing days continued at Utica College. From day one he was slotted into the lineup as a long-stick midfielder under Coach Mike Parnell. Behan described himself as a “Swiss Army Knife player” who prided himself on always being

available and able to do anything his coaches asked him. In his four years at Utica, Behan never missed a game and was a key member of the mandown defensive unit.

After graduating from Utica with a criminal justice degree, he stayed on as an assistant coach for the Pioneers. Behan knew he was interested in getting his master’s degree and looked into coaching as a senior, but a graduate assistant position opened up during his senior year.

Behan leaped at the opportunity to continue working with Utica Lacrosse and stayed with the team for four more years.

“When the opportunity to get into college coaching presented itself, I couldn’t think of a better way to honor the way that those coaches in the past had treated me and done for me,” he said.

Skidmore College offered him the lead assistant coach position and he worked there from 2019 to 2020, where he was able to gain different perspectives on how to recruit and coach a team. Behan said the experience was beneficial and caused him to grow as a coach.

“You can be in it for five years, you can be in it for 30 years and you can always pick up something new,” he said.

Behan used his new perspective to transition into being a head coach at Medaille University in 2021, where some

difficulties were thrown his way. Medaille was the smallest team that he had ever been a part of, and he also had to work through an entire COVID season where difficulties were magnified.

Not only were there more protocols to follow to operate but they also were not allowed to have fans in attendance for any of the home games.

However, it was still his first experience as a head coach at any level. The time spent as the true leader of a program allowed him to grow as a coach and become more prepared for becoming a head coach once again in the future.

After Medaille, Behan spent a brief time at the Division II level as the defensive coordinator at the College of Saint Rose.

This stint gave him more experience working with high-level players since he had worked at the Division III level prior.

Seeing how the higher level operated was the final piece he needed to return to Utica, where Behan now serves as the head coach for the Pioneers.

“With here it’s different,” Behan said. “This is where it all started for me… this is where I got my foot in the door with college coaching… it’s a little bit more meaningful.”

Behan used an endless amount of words to describe how important it was for him to return to Utica as head lacrosse coach. It was a dream

come true for the Syracuse native and Utica College alumni to stay close to home and coach for the team that gave him his start while continuing the rich tradition of lacrosse that has existed on campus.

“The biggest thing that our tradition boils down to is integrity,” Behan said.

When Behan returned to Utica he was thrilled to see the tradition had continued to live on.

While he was at Utica, he and the team prided themselves on doing everything the right way, regardless of if anyone was watching. He said the lacrosse team would take care of their academics, they would act the right way on the field and they would always put in the extra work outside of practice.

Even today, Behan said, the team still enforces this tradition that Behan was able to build and he looks to continue to see it live on for years to come as Utica’s head coach.

Behan added: “It still seems surreal but I’m looking forward to being here for a very long time and continuing to have a positive impact on not just the lacrosse program but Utica University as a whole.”

Photo: Sean Behan X account