Samantha Smith held a sign over her head that read, “When they come for one of us, they come for all of us.” “They’re not gonna stop,” Smith said shaking her head. Utica Phoenix Media multimedia journalist Ron Klopfanstein is a finalist in the Print/Digital News Feature of Series category at the 46th annual Professional Recognition Awards of the Syracuse Press Club, which will take place on Saturday, May 4, 2024. His series entitled “When They Come For One of Us” consists of four articles about the ways the local LGBTQ community is fighting back against the hate movement. This is the fi ..read more

Governor Hochul Celebrates Back to Basics Initiative to Improve Reading Proficiency in New York State Governor Kathy Hochul  celebrated her ‘Back to Basics’ legislation signed into law as a part of the FY 2025 Enacted Budget. The Governor highlighted this crucial initiative at the Albany School of Humanities today where she visited a first grade class using instructional best practices grounded in the Science of Reading. Governor Hochul’s ‘Back to Basics’ plan ensures every New York classroom uses this type of evidence-based instruction to improve reading proficiency rates in New York Sta ..read more

Arming Teachers: A Complex Solution to a Complex Problem   School shootings have become an unfortunate reality in the United States, leaving communities devastated and searching for solutions. In response, some have suggested arming teachers as a means to prevent or mitigate such tragedies. This idea has sparked intense discussions, with opinions divided among educators, policymakers, and parents.   As I sit down to write about the complex issue of teachers carrying guns in schools, my heart is heavy with the weight of tragedy. The United States has witnessed far too many devastatin ..read more

Disney Unveils Trailer for “Mufasa: The Lion King” On Monday, Disney released the highly anticipated first trailer for “Mufasa: The Lion King”, a music-filled film directed by acclaimed director Barry Jenkins. This new installment serves as both an origin story and a follow-up to Jon Favreau’s 2019 photorealistic movie “The Lion King”, which was based on the beloved 1994 Disney animated classic of the same name. The trailer release was accompanied by exciting casting news: Blue Ivy Carter, daughter of Beyoncé and Jay-Z, will make her film debut voicing Kiara, the daughter of King Simba and Que ..read more

SUNY Poly to Hold 49th Commencement Ceremony   WHAT:                  49th SUNY Poly Commencement Ceremony   WHERE:                SUNY Polytechnic Institute  Wildcat Field House                                100 Seymour Road    &nbs ..read more

Rome Catholic School Festival Update ROME, NY – April 29, 2024 – Rome Catholic School is thrilled to announce an exciting update for the upcoming Rome Catholic School Festival, taking place on May 4th and May 5th at 800 Cypress Street in Rome. This family-friendly event promises an unforgettable weekend packed with activities that everyone will love. Activities Include:  Bounce House Extravaganza: Experience heart-racing fun with the Extreme Rush Obstacle Course and the sky-high 22ft Vertical Rush bounce house, courtesy of Varano Super Jump!  Unlimited Bounce House Wristbands: Enjoy all-day ..read more

Boilermaker Names New “Marketing & Sponsor Manager” India Paschal has been named Marketing & Sponsor Manager for the Boilermaker. In this role, Paschal will be responsible for development and execution of the organization’s sponsor management needs as well as being an integral part of the Boilermaker’s marketing team including public relations. A graduate of Herkimer College, Paschal joins the Boilermaker after eight years of experience with Utica Coffee Roasting Company where she was instrumental in the growth of their brand and business.     From a PR perspective, India’s c ..read more

50 Forward Mohawk Valley Looking for Vendors UTICA, NY – 50 Forward Mohawk Valley is seeking vendors for our Annual Fall Bazaar! The Fall Bazaar will be held on Saturday, October 26th from 10am – 4pm at 50 Forward Mohawk Valley Parkway Center. Vendor applications are being accepted now through September 2nd. Vendors have the option of applying for a booth or a single space. While an emphasis will be placed on vendors who sell crafts and other homemade items, there are a limited number of spaces for vendors selling other products and prepackaged artisan food items. To fill out an application pl ..read more

VOTE!! A Call To Action  As I sat in the forum for candidates running for a local Congressional seat, I was struck by the openness and informativeness of the discussion. The candidates shared their positions on various topics, from climate change to local schools. However, what left me disheartened was the noticeable absence of young people. As someone in their 60s, I consider anyone under 40 to be young, and it’s crucial that this demographic is engaged in the political process. As a moderate Democrat, I believe that government exists to improve people’s lives and create a safer, more e ..read more

Outrage in Georgia: School Counselor Exposes Special Needs Teacher’s Abuse, Leaving Parents Demanding Answers Kinahafoonee school   Leesburg, Georgia — In a shocking incident that has sent shockwaves through the community, a special-needs teacher at Kinchafoonee Primary School in Leesburg, Georgia, stands accused of physically abusing a vulnerable student. The alleged mistreatment, captured on security footage, has left parents outraged and demanding answers. The Incident On Friday, April 12, 39-year-old Ashton Long Cleveland, a teacher responsible for the well-being of special-needs stud ..read more