online at urbancny.com Also Inside: City of Syracuse Announces Snow Safety Plan
A Seat at the Table
Bellgrove Missionary Baptist Church Hosts Citywide Prayer for Elected Officials By Ken Jackson On Saturday January 6th at Bellgrove Missionary Baptist Church, 219 Martin Luther King West, Syracuse, members of the areas clergy held a City -Wide Prayer Ceremony, welcoming newly elected and appointed leaders. At 4:00 P.M. Citywide Prayer commenced as people braved the snow and chilling cold to engage in the service; The fruition of Deputy Mayor, Sharon Owen’s vison, as coordinated by Cora Thomas. Rev. Erik Eure officiated the service which included Rev. Steve
Walker President of the (IMA) Interdenominational Ministerial Alliance of Syracuse & Vicinity and incoming President Rev. Bryant Gerald, Sr.; Northeastern Missionary Baptist Association’s Moderator Rev. Derrick Tanyhill; Syracuse Concerned Clergy Rev. Roberson; Mohammed Elfki Imam of the Islamic Society of Central New York, and Reverends’ David Pilch and Vincent Aquilino. Additional participants from the Faith Community included, but were not limited to, Rev. Phil Turner of Bethany Baptist Church, Rev. HB Alex of Victory Temple Fellowship Church, who along with accompanying singers provided several inspira-
tional gospel selections. Rev. Roosevelt Baum, Rev. Nebraski Carter of Living Water COGIC, Rev. Jaime, Rev. Galloway, and Rev. Colette Matthews-Carter, were also in attendance and contributed to facilitation of the program.
It’s a Day “On” – Not a Day “Off” Celebrate The Life and Legacy of Dr. Martin Luther, King, Jr.
Rev. Bryant Gerald, Sr. of the IMA, set the tone for the event and the new administration with his invocation, “….This afternoon we pray God, that you will impart that favor upon this celebration and your blessings upon these elected officials as we offer prayer of comforting, protection and guidance. As they embark on this unfamiliar territory, be a lantern to their feet and a (Continued on page 2)
Broadway veteran to star in ‘Next to Normal’ at Syracuse Stage
pray and sing , we share together in this house of faith, knowing that if one, as the scripture says, can put a thousand to flight, two can put ten thousand with God on our team. We are welcome yes, we all are Elected and appointed Officials participate in Deputy Mayor Sharon Owens speaks to those welcome together, Citywide Prayer Service assembled for prayer to feel and to be welcome in City Hall, as well as in this house of faith, to Rev. Alex also provided extended welcom(Continued from page 1) work together through the mission of making remarks to the assembled, striking a light onto the pathway. I pray for the spirit ing Syracuse again the Salt City. The city personal note, reminiscing about meeting of servitude, as they dedicate themselves to his wife over 35 years ago, this year they’ll of preserving, power and passion, we emcelebrate 35 years of marriage. He relayed the cause of their lives. Lead and guide brace this welcome, and with that we say, a story about her immigration to the Unitthem with wisdom as they serve the people, God’s peace and good journey.” ed States in 1973, which was precipitated the community, in this great city of SyraAfter remarks and reading of scripture, by her father’s attendance at Syracuse cuse. Grant them vision for direction, wisMayor Walsh delivered a message to University to complete a degree program. dom for leadership and insight for decision those assembled at Bellgrove Missionary making, let this prayer service be endowed “It was then that they reached out to at Baptist Church with your presence and power, this we that time, Congressman William Walsh, pray …..” who did something innovate, challenging and creative, to expedite their opportunity Those participating in the blessing includto gain citizenship and the American ed; Mayor Ben Walsh, Deputy Mayor Shadream…I know you’re saying, well ‘why ron Owens, Helen Hudson President of the would I use that to give a welcome’. I use Syracuse Common Council, Monica Wilthat to say, thank you to Mayor Walsh for liams Onondaga County Legislature, Judge daring to follow a legacy of doing at times, Derrick Thomas Syracuse City Judge, Minwhat seems to be daring ister Mark Muhammed CommisMayor Ben Walsh shares personal reflections and innovative. sioner of Education, Linda Ervin at the Citywide prayer Service Onondaga County Legislature, MiBecoming Mayor of Syrachael J. Monds Fire Chief City of cuse at a time when so Syracuse, Pamela Hunter New York many are looking to regain State Assembly, Latoya Allen hope, promise and a resur“I want to thank all of you. It is so hum4th District Common Council, and gence of employbling to be in this position, and this experiKhalid Bey Councilor-at-Large Syrament. Right here in Syraence has been life altering in so many difcuse Common Council. cuse, the Salt City. Mayor ferent ways. But I think one of the things I Rev. H.B. Alex Throughout the short program, Walsh and Deputy Mayor haven’t talked about, and perhaps this is aforementioned members of our Sharon Owens, you along the appropriate place to discuss this. communities of faith, read scripwith the common council face a formidable Many in this room, in your own way have ture, discussed the importance of prayer task, but I know with faith and determinabought me closer to God. Like many of and the significance of prayer in our tion and support that are in this room and you, I was raised in church. I go to Most lives. As Deputy Mayor Owens extolled in others, that task will be completed. So we Holy Rosary, and like many people, my her comments, “I knew, I couldn’t do this gather here today to say we welcome not spiritual path has not always been a without him (God)”. only to the Walsh team, to the task through straight line. Coming into the many houses prayer and through this gathering. But Mohammed Elfki Imam of the Islamic Sociof worship, that you’ve allowed me to also to say welcome everyone here, to the ety of Central New York, offered words of come into, have bought me closer to God, mission, to the assignment that prayer and encouragement delivering a message that and I thank you for that. It couldn’t have faith together, can move this city into its translates “make my mission easy for me” come at a more important time, as I stand destiny and its heritage of change. and “unknot my tongue, so they may unhere before you, to serve you, to have God derstand my speech”. Elfki, ending his reSo, we welcome the challenge, and from all with me, and Sharon with me, and all of marks by saying, “Seek my help. Reach out of us and from all of those that will speak, you with me, I am truly blessed.” to us.”
A Seat at the Table inclusion looks like. Not only did Mr. Walsh appoint Sharon Owens, an African American as his Deputy Mayor, he’s presented a slate of appointees that reflects the diversity of our city. In conversations about politics around the kitchen table, we’ve always discussed the fact that the African American community simply wants a seat at the table, a seat at the table of governance. Each Syracuse Mayor, from Roy Bernardi, Matt Driscoll and outgoing Mayor Stephanie A. Miner, made perfunctory efforts at appointing several African-Americans to key administration positions. But those positions were usually reserved for a few, “minorities” history. After decades of voting for Demoin any given administration, those appointcrats, it takes an Independent to include the ments never rising to the level of having Black community in the day-to-day operaseats at the table of power. tions of the city of Syracuse. These are not That all changed on November 7th with the “token appointments”; this is what inclusive election of Ben Walsh as the 54th Mayor of government looks like, reflecting the city’s For decades, Syracuse African American ac- the City of Syracuse. Running as an Indediverse residents. We now have seats at the pendent, Walsh won the general election by tivists and voters in have been participating table. about 3,900 votes making him the first candiin the local electoral process, becoming a key demographic for the Democratic Party. And date not aligned with a major political party like perennial Chrysanthemums, the African to capture City Hall in 100 years. American voter would return, election after Backed by a coalition of young, old, black, election, participating with the promise that, white, LGBTQ, conservative, liberal, republi“this time will be different.” can, and democrat; Walsh even managed to weaponize the resistance. The campaign And with each successive post-Tom Young Published monthly online by: Mayoral Administration, the African Ameri- attracted millennials, mobilized by events can voter would belly up to the voting booth nationally, who after last November, were URBAN CNY looking for a leader or a cause. They found a and blindly cast their ballots for democratic Kenneth Jackson leader and a cause in Ben Walsh’s Campaign. candidates. We were as dependable as the Editor and Publisher early signs of spring tulips, or the impending Not only do African-Americans have a seat at 315-807-9022 cold of a Syracuse winter. the table with the Walsh Administration. We Walt Shepperd Perhaps the aforementioned assessment has have a place-mat, eating utensils and a chair Senior Editor changed, if appointments to the new Walsh at the table of governance in the city of SyraUrban CNY cuse. We have more people of color, in posiAdministration are any indication of what 105 Rann Ave. tions of responsibility than ever before in our Syracuse, NY 13204 For advertising and editorial: 315-807-9022 kjackson@urbancny.com Online at urbancny.com
City of Syracuse Announces Snow Safety Plan – Mayor Walsh teams with Common Council, DPW, Police, Fire and Parks to address snow safety challenges
Syracuse, N.Y. – As Syracuse has been hit by two winter storms, Syracuse Mayor Ben Walsh and the leaders of the Police, Fire, Department of Public Works and Parks and Recreation departments, as well as members of the Syracuse Common Council recently announced a Snow Safety Plan for the city of Syracuse. The plan takes immediate steps to address concerns about snow clearance from sidewalks, streets and around fire hydrants.
“Snow covered sidewalks are a serious hazard to pedestrians, and illegally parked cars during snow events create safety problems for residents and the DPW,” said Mayor Walsh. “With the city leading the way, it’s time for all of us to pull together and improve our response to dangerous snow conditions. That begins today and will continue from this day forward.”
Hudson, Chad Ryan, chairman of the Council’s Public Works Committee and Mayor Walsh reminded all city residents of the existing ordinances regarding sidewalk snow removal, parking and private plow operators:
Sidewalks: All city property owners are required to remove snow from sidewalks on their properties within 24 hours depending on weather con“People should not need to walk in our streets ditions. The Mayor called on all property owners during and after snow storms, and everyone to complete their civic responsibility and ensure The Mayor and leaders of the city are committed should be able to get off their streets when they the safety of fellow residents. to: need to, except in the very worst of conditions,” The Mayor announced that residents can now said Common Council President Helen Hudson. Ensuring timely snow removal from sidereport un-shoveled sidewalks online at a new “We’re hearing the concerns of our neighbors walks on all city-owned properties “Snow Issue Tracker” reachable and taking action.” at cityline.syrgov.net. Data collected on Cityline Increasing awareness of existing ordinances Sidewalk Clearance on City-owned Properties will help the city develop long-term solutions. and responsibilities for city residents Mayor Walsh committed that snow would be Parking: Vehicles parked on the wrong side of Using city data to step up enforcement of removed from the sidewalks and rights of way the street or failing to comply with snow emerparking regulations in priority spots and around city properties in keeping with city ordi- gency parking guidelines will be ticketed and throughout the city, as well as violations by nances. He said all department heads and facility towed. private plow operators managers have committed to ensure snow is Private Plow Operators: Private plow operators Engaging city residents in reporting problem removed as quickly as possible during snow are subject to a $150 fine for plowing snow into sidewalks and in developing solutions to the storms. “It starts with us,” Mayor Walsh said. the public rights of way or for blocking sidesidewalk snow removal issues Awareness of Existing Ordinances
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Mayor Walsh Reappoints Nine Commissioners; Ruthnie Angrand joins the new administration as DiWalsh also recruits recreation professional to be Deputy Commissioner of Parks, Recreation and Youth Programs Names two communications staffers, Ruthnie Angrand joins the new administration as Director of Communications and Marketing SYRACUSE, NY (Jan. 1, 2018) – Mayor Walsh announced yesterday that he has reappointed nine commissioners, and appointed a deputy commissioner of Parks, Recreation and Youth Programs. He also named two communications professionals who will man-
Julie LaFave Deputy Commissioner of Parks Recreation and Youth Programs, Ruthnie Angrand Director of Communications and Marketing, and Tory Russo Public Information Officer (Continued on page 10)
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“Snow Safety Summit”
walks. Property owners are subject to $100 fines Mayor Walsh confirmed his commitment to work with the Common Council to implement an for this violation. effective long-term solution to the sidewalk Increased Enforcement of Parking and Private clearance problem. The Mayor said his AdminPlow Operator Violations istration will consider: Using information compiled by the Department of Innovation and in consultation with the Department of Public Works, the city has identified priority parking enforcement streets by quadrants of the city. The streets (see p. 3), posted in News section on the Home page of syrgov.net, represent the most narrow city streets with more than 35 properties on a block and 25% or more two and three unit properties, as well as additional streets identified as problem points for DPW access in the past.
reinstituting fines for failure to comply with existing ordinances,
applying a special assessment or fee on property owners to fund sidewalk snow removal,
conducting pilot projects as soon as possible to test effective solutions.
The Mayor, President Hudson and Councilor Ryan also announced the city’s Innovation Team will host a “Snow Safety Summit” on Thursday, “Using historic data and other information about Feb. 15 to gain additional input and ideas from city streets, we can predict where snow plows city residents. The event, to be held from 6 p.m. will face challenges and prevent dangerous situ- to 8 p.m. at Dr. Weeks Elementary School, 710 ations for the public and for our plow operaHawley Ave., Syracuse, will help the city identify tors,” said Sam Edelstein, chief data officer. the best and most effective approaches to clearThe Syracuse Police Department, in coordination ing sidewalks. with DPW, will increase enforcement first Fire Hydrant Access around critical infrastructure, such as hospitals The Syracuse Fire Department is asking residents and public safety facilities, and on steep hills in the city. Additional enforcement will progress to to help clear snow from around the more than the priority streets and then to other parts of the 5,000 fire hydrants across the city. Instead of city. Enforcement will occur throughout the city. blowing or pushing snow near hydrants, Chief Michael Monds asks residents to take the extra Vehicles violating alternate side of the street time to clear a three foot space around all sides parking regulations will be ticketed and towed. of hydrants and to make a path from the road to In the priority areas and other parts of the city, the hydrant. According to Chief Monds, “In an DPW supervisors and Syracuse Police will also be emergency, every second counts. Clearing a hyissuing tickets to property owners and private drant can save a life.” plow operators who illegally push snow in rights of way and who block sidewalk access.
Snow Priority Parking Enforcement Areas – January 2018 (List available from homepage at syrgov.net) North East 100 Collingwood Ave 300 Collingwood Ave 100 Durston Ave 100 Jasper St 100 Mildred Ave 200 Nichols Ave 100 Paul Ave 100 Peck Ave South East 500 Clarendon St 100 Redfield Pl 200 Robert Dr 200 Roosevelt Ave 300 Roosevelt Ave 800 Sumner Ave North West 300 Apple St 200 Bryant Ave 100 Steuben St 200 Tennyson Ave South West 100 Belle Ave 100 Calthrop Ave 200 Calthrop Ave 100 Fernwood Ave 100 Matson Ave 300 Newell St 100 Ostrander Ave 100 Parkside Ave 100 Parkway Dr 200 Reed Ave 100 Reed Ave
Angela Rye Keynote Speaker for 2018 Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Celebration January 28th at The Carrier Dome Angela Rye, an acclaimed political commentator for both CNN and NPR, will be the keynote speaker for the 33rd annual Martin Luther King Jr. Celebration at Syracuse University on Jan. 28, 2018. The yearly MLK Celebration at the Carrier Dome is the largest universitysponsored event in the United States to honor King’s legacy. Rye is an attorney and the principal and CEO of IMPACT Strategies, a political advocacy and strategic consulting firm. A leading political strategist, she is committed to ensuring positive change in the political process by building relationships for corporations, unions, nonprofits and elected officials. She has been interviewed by and provided commentary for CNN, BET, HBO, MSNBC, CSPAN, SiriusXM, The Washington Post, Fortune, “The Today Show,” “NBC Nightly News,” “Real Time with Bill Maher” and TV-ONE.
served as senior advisor and counsel to the House Committee on Homeland Security.
This year marks the 33rd year for the Dr. King Celebration, with the dinner preceding the for“As the new mal program, which includes Rye’s keynote adDean of Hendress, student and community group perfordricks Chapel, mances, and presentation of this year’s Unsung I’m thrilled with Hero Awards, for which nominations are still bethe selection of ing accepted. Angela Rye as the Dr. King On Sunday, Jan. 28, dinner precedes the prokeynote speak- gram at 4:30 p.m., with doors opening at 4 p.m. er for this year,” Dinner tickets for SU faculty/staff and the gensays the Rev. eral public will be available through the Schine Brian E. Konkol. Box Office on an individual basis ($30) or in “She brings a blocks of 10 ($300). Cash, credit or interdepartdistinctive and dynamic voice to our event, along with a critical message for our students, faculty, staff and community members. As we continue to build upon the legacy of Dr. King here at Syracuse University and beyond, Angela Rye will inspire us to visualize a better world and motivate us to help bring it all into being.” In her role as principal and CEO of IMPACT Strategies, Rye seeks to encourage young professionals in three core areas: economic empowerment, civic engagement and political involvement. Previously, she served as the executive director and general counsel to the Congressional Black Caucus (CBC) for the 112th Congress. In this capacity, she was tasked with developing the overall legislative and political strategy for the Caucus. Previously to working for the CBC, she
mental ID may be used. All tickets are for general seating. Student tickets are $15 and may be purchased through a meal plan at dining halls. Students without a meal plan may purchase tickets at the Schine Box Office. The formal program, which begins at 5:30 p.m., is free and open to the public. For questions, contact Hendricks Chapel at 315.443.5044. American Sign Language (ASL) interpretation and Communication Access Real-Time will be available at the event. To request dietary or other accommodations, contact Ginny Yerdon at Hendricks Chapel at 315.443.2901 or gyerdon@syr.edu.
Broadway veteran to star in ‘Next to Normal’ at Syracuse Stage Pulitzer Prize- and Tony Award -winning musical has the power of a moving family drama SYRACUSE, NY – The rock musical “Next to Normal” has an impressive record. It won three Tony Awards in 2009, including the award for Best Original Score, and it is one of only nine musicals ever to win the Pulitzer Prize for Drama (2010). It is an emotional powerhouse of a play that demands excellence in performance, and artistic director Robert Hupp has assembled a cast capable of delivering every nuanced note when “Next to Normal” begins its run at Syracuse Stage on Jan. 24.
in the rehearsal room, and I can’t wait to share Music” and Martha in “The Secret Garden.” this story, as performed by this amazing cast, for Hupp expects Allen and Masterson to shine in our audience.” their roles.
Leading the company in the crucial role of Diana is veteran Judy McLane, whose impressive credentials include more than 4,000 performances in the long-running Broadway hit “Mamma Mia!.” McLane became the show’s longest running principle playing both Tanya and Donna. On Broadway, she has also appeared in “Kiss of the Spider Woman,” “Aspects of Love” and “Chess,” and she earned a Drama League Award for Distinguished Performance in Theatre for her acclaimed work in the Off-Broadway production of “Johnny Guitar.”
“Next to Normal” presents a formidable challenge for any company. It is a rare creation: a musical that has the power of a moving family drama. Equally rare is the opportunity to see a production with a cast so suited to reach the “Tom and I each have a number of people in our show’s full potential. That cast takes to Syracuse lives who have struggled with mental illness,” Stage Jan. 24 – Feb. 11. Yorkey explained in an interview published on Tickets are now available at the website “Verywell.” “They have certainly been on our minds throughout our time working www.SyracuseStage.org, by phone at 315-4433275 and in person at the Box Office. on the show. We wanted to get the story right and have the medical part of it be as accurate as Special Events possible, for them and for all people who have Jan. 24 Pay-What-You-Will Performance similar struggles.” @ 7:30 p.m. Kitt’s Tony Award-winning score is an energetic There will be 76 tickets available for whatever pop/rock mix that cuts straight to the heart. price patrons wish to pay. Pay-what-you-will While sustaining the electric momentum of a rock opera, the score surprises as it ranges from tickets must be claimed in person at the Box music-box lyricism to twanging country-western Office on the day of the performance, subject to availability. The Box Office opens at 10 a.m. and heartbreak, capturing the jaggedness and restwill remain open until the start of the show. less questioning of the central characters. There is a limit of two tickets per person. Chief among those, in addition to Diana, are her Jan. 26 Opening Night Party (free for tickhusband Dan and daughter Natalie. For Dan, Hupp tapped veteran New York actor Glenn Sev- et holders) en Allen. Allen has appeared at Lincoln Center in Join the cast for a post-show celebration with “The Light in the Piazza,” “Carousel” at Avery live music, food and drinks. Fisher Hall (also part of PBS’ “Great PerformancJan. 28 Prologue at 1 p.m. (free for ticket es”) and “Girl Crazy” as part of City Center’s holders) “Encores!.”
McLane’s vocal prowess has earned her appearances with such major symphony orchestras as the National Symphony in Washington, D.C., the National Symphony of Canada and the Bolshoi Orchestra in Moscow. Director Hupp believes that McLane’s extensive Broadway experience and exceptional singing ability make her an ideal choice for Diana, a wife and mother whose struggles with bipolar disorder impact her family. “‘Next to Normal’ is a story of how a smart and insightful wife and mother wrestles with inescapable mental illness and how that illness affects her caregiving husband and her teenaged daughter,” Hupp explained. “The musical’s soaring score immediately grabbed my attention, and the very real, sometimes funny and always questioning characters were achingly honest and richly complex. A rich and complex musical like ‘Next to Normal’ demands a stellar cast. We are so fortunate to have a cast that can more than match the emotional and technical demands required of ‘Next to Normal.’ It is thrilling to be
With music by Tom Kitt and book and lyrics by Brian Yorkey, “Next to Normal” was praised by the Pulitzer Prize jury for expanding “the scope of subject matter for musicals." The show began as a 10-minute workshop presentation about a woman undergoing electroconvulsive therapy and the people who tried to help her. As the show expanded and developed, Kitt and Yorkey focused the narrative on the character of Diana and specified the arc of her struggle. Throughout, they researched extensively and consulted with psychologists and psychiatrists.
“Although Diana is at the center of the play, those around her face challenges no less complicated and moving,” Hupp said. “This is part of what makes ‘Next to Normal’ so appealing. We see how the family is affected, and Glenn and Sara bring not only the necessary artistry, but great emotional depth to their work.”
An intimate, pre-show discussion with “Next to Sara Masterson plays Natalie, a talented musician and high school senior trying to navigate her Normal” actors one hour prior to curtain. Bring your questions. way through her mother’s illness and her own seemingly chaotic life. In her young career, Masterson has already tackled such roles as Medium Actor Talkback (free for ticket holders) Alison in “Fun Home,” Anne in “A Little Night (Continued on page 8)
Syracuse Stage and Rain Lounge seeking local contestants for the inaugural Salt City Drag Battle Complex, 820 E. Genesee St. Who will be named the first-ever Salt City Queen or King and win a $1,000 cash prize?
(Syracuse, NY)—Syracuse Stage and Rain
Lounge present the inaugural Salt City Drag Battle on Friday, March 23 in the Archbold Theatre at the Syracuse Stage/SU Drama
“Syracuse Stage is excited to feature some great Central New York talent on Participants will be selected through our stage and a video application process on the we’re looking Syracuse Stage website, which is forward to seeopen now. Interested participants ing the videos should provide video of past perforpeople submit,” said Jill Anderson, managing mances. Deadline for submissions is director, Syracuse Stage. “As a fundraiser, we March 5. thought the Salt City Drag Battle would be a great fit because drag pageants embody Hosted by “RuPaul’s Drag Race” some of the well-loved elements of theatre: alumni Mrs. Kasha Davis and Miss spectacular showmanship, skilled entertainDarienne Lake, proceeds from the Salt City Drag Battle will benefit Syra- ers and, of course, gorgeous costumes.” cuse Stage artistic programming. The Tickets for the Drag Battle are now on sale at pageant will feature eight contestthe Syracuse Stage Box Office, 315-443-3275 ants, who will showcase two looks and online. General admission tickets are and one talent performance. Finalists will $25. VIP tickets that include selected priority then compete in a lip-sync battle for a winseating and a post-show champagne recepner-take-all grand prize. tion with the hosts are also available for $50.
An intimate, pre-show discussion with “Next to Normal” actors one hour prior to curtain. Bring your questions.
Syracuse Stage is Central New York’s premier professional theatre in resiA Q&A session with the actors following the dence at Syracuse University. Found7 p.m. performance. ed in 1974, Stage has produced more than 300 plays in over 40 seasons inASL Interpreted PerforJan. 31 Wednesday @ 1 Discussion (free cluding a number of world, American, mance at 3 p.m. for patrons for ticket holders) who are deaf or hard of hearand East Coast premieres. Each seaing. son 70,000 patrons enjoy an advenJoin Le Moyne College professor Maria DiTulturous mix of new plays, and bold inlio for a discussion before “Next to Normal” Feb. 7 Dinner & Show ($50, terpretations of classics and musicals, at 1 p.m. Dr. DiTullio's research and teaching includes dinner and show featuring the finest theatre artists. In interests include grief and loss, death and admission) addition, Stage maintains a vital educational dying, hospice care, mind-body-spirit conEnjoy a buffet dinner at 6 p.m. with fellow thea- outreach program that annually serves more nection and spiritual and transpersonal psytre lovers in the Sutton Pavilion. Seasonal fare than 15,000 students from 14 counties. A chology. She is also a NYS Licensed Mental prepared by Phoebe’s Restaurant followed by solid core of subscribers and supporters Health Counselor with over 30 years of clini- great theatre. helps keep Syracuse Stage a vibrant artistic cal experience. Feb. 8 Prologue at 6:30 p.m. (free for ticket presence in Central New York. Additional Open Captioning at 2 p.m. Performance for holders) support comes from the government, founpatrons who are deaf or hard of hearing. dations, corporations and Syracuse UniversiAn intimate, pre-show discussion with “Next to Feb. 1 Happy Hour at 6 p.m. (free for ticket Normal” actors one hour prior to curtain. Bring ty. Syracuse Stage is a constituent of the Theatre Communications Group (TCG), the nayour questions. holders) tional organization for the American theatre, Enjoy complimentary appetizers from Origi- Feb. 10 Audio Described Performance at 3 p.m. and a member of the Arts and Cultural Leadnal Grain, beginner Tai-Chi lessons from Tai for patrons who are blind or visually impaired. ership Alliance (ACLA), the University Hill Chi Revolution’s D.C. Kapilla, half-priced drinks Open Captioning at 8 p.m. performance for pa- Corporation and the East Genesee Regent and $5 drink specials at the bar. trons who are deaf or hard of hearing. Association. Syracuse Stage is a member of Feb. 3 Prologue at 2 p.m. (free for ticket hold- Feb. 11 Open Captioning at 2 p.m. perfor- The League of Resident Theatres (LORT), the ers) mance for patrons who are deaf or hard of hear- largest professional theatre association in the country. ing. (Continued from page 7)
It’s a Day “On” – Not a Day “Off” Celebrate The Life and Legacy of Dr. Martin Luther, King, Jr. There will be many from across the world who will take time out to reflect and celebrate the contributions of this great Civil Rights leader. It is important that we recognize those who have fought for the freedom of mankind. Dr. King’s weapon was “love”. He was an advocate of nonviolence, and paid the ultimate price – his life. We can still hear his voice resounding, “I have a dream”. This famous speech was delivered t an estimated 250,000 people who witnessed by attending the “March on Washington” at the monument. “I remember being in the crowd” that day. As a student at Howard University were urged to be there and to be a part of this great history”, and I am so glad that I attended. Let us not to forget to celebrate by paying tribute to this great man. Many communities, churches, organizations and individuals of all cultures will pause and commemorate this day. Dr. King’s day is Monday, January
committee opened the doors for those essential workers, such as nurses, firemen, policemen, and individuals who did not have the day “off”. They were invited to come by the church on their lunch hour, enjoy a sandwich as they watched the speech and teachings of Dr. King. Having relocated to the Syracuse, New York area in 2010, she flies out to DC for the 12 Noon ceremony of music, poetry, dance and other activities. That which was a mere small crowd has escalated to a CityWide Community Celebration. Other Churches have joined in by using this model, “A Day ON” to do similar activities, which leads into Black History Month.
15, 2018. It’s a Day “on”, don’t take the day “off”. We are asking churches to join in the celebrations that will be held in this city, Syracuse. Dr. Hillsman has been active in this celebration for 37 years, beginning in Washington, D. C. at the New Southern Rock Baptist Church, Dr. Rudolph White, Senior Pastor. As Minister of Music there, she and a
Tucker Missionary Baptist Church in Syracuse, Dr. Decarto Draper, Pastor, and Eric Dickson, Minister of Music has joined in by promoting the “One-Hour” extended celebration program, simultaneously as the one in D.C. For information on activities to connect and present “A Day “On” service, feel free to contact Dr. Hillsman and others who will be celebrating the dream. Do something on Dr. King’s Day to “Work on the Dream”. His work lives on.
“Difficult Days” A Poetic Tribute
Martin, you said that there would be difficult days ahead And now those days are here just like you said.
By Dr. Joan Hillsman
But, Martin, you warned us, but we did not take heed, And now we have to account for all of our wrong deeds
Wars and rumors of war, nations against nations No peace near or far
Racism still around, violence on every hand Still can be found Martin, you told us to love, but men just won’t see, That no matter the color of our skin, sisters and brothers are we. Drugs and violence is not the way, That is what the “Good Book” say Martin, we pray that God will heal the land, And make this a better world for every man Thank you Martin for your word, We’ll keep striving to improve our world But, Martin, you said that there would be difficult days, and now we are experiencing them just like you said.
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age communications, marketing and public engagement for the City of Syracuse. Janet Burke has served as the Director of the Research Bureau since 2010. The Bureau of Research serves as a policy planning, research/information resource, intergovernmental aid, and special projects unit for all City departments. Burke has been with the department since 2003, serving previously as Management Analyst and Grants Procurement Specialist. Prior to working for the Research Bureau, Burke worked in the Parking Violations Bureau in the Finance Department.
a graduate of Syracuse University, where he worked early in his career as an assistant coach focused on player development and strengthening for the basketball team. Robert Stamey will continue in his role as the Director of Personnel, a position he has held since 2014. The Department of Personnel and Labor Relations provides leadership, guidance, and efficient services to promote positive labor relations, diversity, and a safe work environment. Stamey previously served in the City Corporation Counsel office. He graduated with his Juris Doctorate degree from the Syracuse University College of Law in 1987.
Ken Towsley has also been reappointed as David Clifford has served as the Commisthe Director of Code Enforcement. Towsley sioner of Assessment since 2011. The Dehas been director since 2013 and has been partment of Assessment annually compiles with the department for more than 10 years. the City assessment roll, consisting of an as- The Division of Code Enforcement is responsessed value for each of the City’s 41,902 sible for planning, reviewing, and inspecting properties. Clifford is a 32-year veteran of building construction within the city. Towsthe department, also having worked as First ley started his career as a member of the Deputy Commissioner, Deputy Commission- United States Army. er, Senior Real Property Appraiser, and Mary Vossler will continue to serve as the Property Appraiser. Director of Management and Budget, a poDavid DelVecchio has been renamed the sition she has held since 2011. The DepartCommissioner of Finance. The Department ment of Budget prepares and administers of Finance is divided into three bureaus: The the annual budget, and develops the City’s Bureau of Treasury, The Bureau of Accounts, energy, telecommuniand the Parking Violations Bureau. DelVec- cations, and technolochio has worked for the City of Syracuse gy policies. Prior to since 1983, with roles in the City Auditor’s this position, Vossler Office, Public Works, and the Department of spent a year in the DeCommunity Development. partment of Neighborhood and Business DeAdria Finch began as the City’s Director of velopment as Chief Innovation in 2015. She will continue to Financial Officer. serve as the Director of Innovation, which develops solutions to challenges facing the The Mayor appointed City of Syracuse, such as infrastructure and Julie LaFave to beeconomic opportunity. Finch previously come the next Deputy worked as an Economic Development SpeCommissioner of cialist for the Downtown Committee of Syra- Parks, Recreation and cuse. Youth Programs, a key role in managing and Mary Robison has been reappointed to City administrating City Engineer. She has lead the Department of parks operations and Engineering, which includes the Design and programs. LaFave Construction Division, the Building Division, brings 15 years of exand the Mapping and Surveying Division, perience in municipal since 2003. Robison has more than 30 years recreation, including of professional engineering experience. planning, organizing Lazarus Sims has been reappointed to Com- special events, team missioner of Parks, Recreation, and Youth leadership, and sponsorship through fundPrograms. The Parks Department coordinates, administers, and staffs the city’s rec- raising. She is currently director of Parks reational, support, and special events programs. Sims started at the City in 2015 and is and Recreation in the
Town of Sullivan. LaFave earned her Bachelor’s degree from Central Michigan University and has a Master’s degree in Recreation Administration from Frostburg State University. She will report to Commissioner Lazarus Sims. LaFave lives in Syracuse. In the office of the Mayor, Ruthnie Angrand joins the new administration as the Director of Communications and Marketing. She previously managed communications and marketing for Hueber-Breuer Construction Company and worked as an editorial assistant at Syracuse University Press. Angrand studied magazine, newspaper, and online journalism from Syracuse University after earning an undergraduate degree in mass communications from Brenau University. Walsh also named Tory Russo as Public Information Officer. Russo spent several months on Walsh’s campaign and transition team as a communications specialist and previously worked for PEACE, Inc. as a content coordinator. She graduated from Syracuse University in 2016 with undergraduate degrees in magazine journalism and international relations.
Woods Senior Center Renovations NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN, that pursuant to the provisions of the General Municipal law, sealed bids for Bid # 2018-01 Canton Woods Senior Center Renovations will be received at the Office of the Village Clerk, 16 West Genesee Street, Baldwinsville, New York 13027, Onondaga County, New York, until 2:00 pm, local time, on Wednesday, February 14, 2018, at which time they will be publicly opened and read aloud. This project involves the remodeling of two restrooms and installation of three new exterior doors at the Canton Woods Senior Center location at 76 Canton Street in the Village of Baldwinsville, Onondaga County, New York. This project is funded (in part) by a grant from the Onondaga County Community Development Division.
Bidders will be required to commit themThe outside of the envelope must contain selves to a goal for minority business partici- the vendor’s name, address, Bid Date, Bid pation in the contracts. Time and the following language: “Bid # 2018 -01 Canton Woods Senior Center RenovaThe contract specifications and drawings tions”. may be examined free of charge at the Community Development office: Onondaga Coun- The Village of Baldwinsville Board of Trustees ty, Community Development Division, 1100 reserves the right to reject any or all bids. Civic Center, 421 Montgomery Street, SyraMaureen Butler cuse, NY, 315-435-3558. Village Clerk Copies of the bid document may be obtained Village of Baldwinsville at the Village Clerk’s Office. Bids shall be submitted in sealed envelopes at the above address and shall bear on the face thereof the name and one complete copy of the sealed bid must be delivered to:
Village of Baldwinsville 16 West Genesee Street Baldwinsville, New York Approximately $50,000 of the project will be Attention: Village Clerk financed with federal funding.
Heat and Frost Insulators Recruit Apprentices Syracuse, NY (January 2, 2018) – The Joint Apprenticeship and Training Committee for Heat and Frost Insulators and Allied Workers, Local Union #30, will conduct a recruitment from January 24, 2018 through December 26, 2018 for three insulation and asbestos worker apprentices, the New York State Department of Labor announced today. Please note that the openings listed for apprentices represent the total number for five recruitment regions – the Central, Finger Lakes, Mohawk Valley, North Country, and Southern Tier regions. This program’s jurisdiction includes the counties of Broome, Cayuga, Chemung, Chenango, Cortland, Herkimer, Jefferson, Lewis, Madison, Oneida, Onondaga, Oswego, Otsego, Schuyler, Seneca, St. Lawrence, Tioga, and Tompkins.
Applications can be obtained from the Heat and Frost Insulators and Allied Workers, Local Union #30, 107 Twin Oaks Drive, Syracuse, NY, from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. on the fourth Wednesday of each month, excluding legal holidays, during the recruitment period. All applications must be received by January 2, 2019. The Committee requires that applicants:
Must be at least 18 years old.
cruitment. This includes the counties of Broome, Cayuga, Chemung, Chenango, Cortland, Herkimer, Jefferson, Lewis, Madison, Oneida, Onondaga, Oswego, Otsego, Schuyler, Seneca, St. Lawrence, Tioga, and Tompkins.
Must provide DD-214, Certificate of Release or Discharge from Active Duty, if applicable, after selection and prior to indenture.
For further information, applicants should conMust have a high school diploma or a high tact their nearest New York State Department of school equivalency diploma (such as TASC or Labor office or Local Union #30 at (315) 475GED). Proof will be required after selection 1246. and prior to indenture. Apprentice programs registered with the DepartMust be physically able to perform the work ment of Labor must meet standards established required of an insulation and asbestos work- by the Commissioner. Under state law, sponsors er, as determined by a medical exam and a of programs cannot discriminate against applidrug screening, at the expense of the spon- cants because of race, creed, color, national sor, after selection and prior to indenture. origin, age, sex, disability, or marital status. Must take an aptitude test administered by Women and minorities are encouraged to submit applications for apprenticeship programs. the New York State Department of Labor. Sponsors of programs are required to adopt Must reside within the jurisdiction of Local affirmative action plans for the recruitment of Union #30 for at least one year prior to rewomen and minorities.