Star Review digital edition - May 29, 2024

YoLANdA BuSh BLoomS

Chicago-born singer fronts soulful sextet here June 3

BY RuSS TARBY Contributing Writer

While most of the bands booked at Johnson Park each summer hail from right here in Central New York, every now and then talented out-of-towners are hired to perform.

The Liverpool Is The Place Summer Concert Committee has done it again by booking drummer, singer and bandleader Yolanda Bush and the Cool Water Collective to perform a free concert here at 7 p.m. Monday, June 3.

Born on the south side of Chicago, Bush now resides in the Catskills.

She has been singing and drumming for four decades, and is versatile in varied styles including blues, jazz and rock. Her voice is singular, transformative and engaging on such iconic tunes as “Wild Women Don’t Get the Blues.”

In addition, she is a tight, deep pocket drummer with impeccable meter.

The Cool Water Collective, named in honor of the Catskills’ wonderful waterways, is a flexible, expressive ensemble of musicians.

In a recent interview, Bush explained her approach to live performance: “My intention for us is to bring the right combination of artistry, nuance, passion and swagger. That’s how I define blues. It’s like the sun, you know it when you feel it.”

As a child in the Windy City, Bush became quite an accomplished boxer and accordion-player.

She studied trumpet and choral music, and performed with numerous ensembles including the Chicago Youth Symphony.

A prolific songwriter, Bush has often performed as a solo guitarist and singer, touring the U.S., Italy, Lithuania, Latvia and Poland

The 38th annual Liverpool Is The Place Summer Concert Series will continue from 7 to 9 p.m. every Monday and Wednesday through midAugust.

Submitted photo

Chicago-born vocalist Yolanda Bush fronts The Cool Water Collective performing a free concert of blues and roots music at 7 p.m. on monday, June 3, at Johnson Park, presented by the Liverpool Is The Place Summer Concert Committee.

Upcoming concerts include Chuck Schiele’s Quatro on Wednesday, June 5, the Fab Cats on Monday, June 10, and a Springsteen tribute band called Born to Run on Wednesday, June 12. This year, LITP has added a new Community Band Jubilee for 1 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 14, showcasing the Liverpool Community Concert Band, the Skaneateles Community Band and the Lyncourt Community Band. The LITP Committee still seeks sponsorships for several 2024 concerts such as the Jess Novak Band, Soul Mine, The Monterays and the Community Band Jubilee. To donate, contact LITP Treasurer Colleen Gunnip at colleen.gunnip@gmail.com, or call the Greater Liverpool Chamber of Commerce at 315-457-3895.

Cicero Town Board considers moratorium

BY ANNA EdWARdS

The Cicero Town Board held a public hearing on May 22 to discuss a moratorium that would prohibit new commercial battery energy storage system installations in the Town of Cicero.

The law, “Temporary Moratorium for Battery Energy Storage Systems,” would delay the consideration, approval, and development of Tier 2 and Tier 3 battery energy storage systems. The law does not apply to existing installations or to residential battery energy storage systems in one or twofamily residences.

According to the New York State Energy Research & Development Authority (NYSERDA), a battery energy storage system is a “rechargeable energy storage system consisting of electrochemical storage batteries, battery chargers, controls, and associated electrical equipment designed to provide electrical power to a building.” It usually provides standby power or an uninterruptible power supply.

Tier 2 and Tier 3 battery energy storage systems include systems that have an aggregate energy capacity greater than 40 kWh within utility spaces greater than 80 kWh in garages, on exterior walls, in detached accessory structures, or outdoors on the

ground. Tier 1 systems, which would not be prohibited by the moratorium, generally include battery energy storage systems for one- to two-family homes.

This proposal comes at a time of apprehension about the possible hazards created by the systems, according to the town supervisor.

“There are some significant concerns environmentally,” Town Supervisor Michael Aregano said at Wednesday’s meeting.

Aregano said some systems contain toxic chemicals and create environmental and fire hazards.

The moratorium will give the board time to study the environmental impact of battery energy storage systems and create legislation that coincides with town policy and the Town of Cicero Comprehensive Plan.

“The purpose of a moratorium is to press pause on any pending applications … and to stop any applications until we can address the issue,” Aregano said.

The moratorium could not be voted on at Wednesday’s town board meeting because it references the county planning board, which will not meet until June 18.

Town of Cicero Councilor Jonathon Karp said that, because of this, the issue will be voted on at the June 19 town

board meeting.

The public hearing still took place at Wednesday’s meeting.

Concern was expressed over difficulty in deciphering the proposed local law and fear that people would not be able to install solar panels in the future.

However, Aregano said the moratorium should not impact households.

He said that the law is directed at industrial facilities, large commercial buildings, and more utility scale energy storage systems.

Aregano described Tier 1 systems, which will not be impacted by the moratorium, as “something that’s designed to serve a single-family or a two-family residence, not something that’s designed to serve a commercial facility.”

Aregano said there are currently no Tier 2 systems in the Town of Cicero, but there is a Tier 3 system at the solar-powered energy storage plant on Northern Boulevard.

He said the storage plant would not be affected by the moratorium.

Aregano has been working on a draft battery law that will create standards for Cicero’s battery energy storage systems.

Until then, the proposed moratorium would prevent anyone from making an application before it can be properly regulated.

Liverpool voters approve school budget

On Tuesday, May 21, Liverpool Central School District voters approved the district’s budget for 2024-25. The $192,158,276 budget, which reflects a change of 4.23% over last year, passed with a vote of 833 to 658.

In addition, the district’s bus proposition passed with a vote of 936 to 573.

Also proposed was the purchase of student transportation and other district vehicles, with a maximum total estimated expenditure of $2,481,944.

The Liverpool Public Library budget of $4,478,000 also passed with a vote of 1,137 to 356.

Elected to the board of education were Matt Jones (1,248 votes,) John Solazzo: (1,197) and Kimberly Melnik (1180.)

North Syracuse school budget passes

North Syracuse Central School District voters have agreed to the district’s proposed 2024-2025 school year budget with a 65,2 percent approval. A total of 1,846 votes were cast, with the final tally being 1,204 yes votes and 642 no votes on the $212,196,591 proposal. A bus proposition for $2,152,433 also passed with 1,268 yes votes and 579 no votes for a 68.7 percent approval. Voters also authorized the district’s use of capital reserve/debt service funds for ongoing construction projects with a 69.3 percent approval (1,271 yes votes/564 no votes). Additionally, the Salina Free Library proposition for $510,565 passed (76.3 percent approval) with 58 yes votes and 18 no votes.

Voters elected the following three candidates to the North Syracuse Central School District Board of Education for (three-year) terms beginning July 1, 2024:

Beth Kramer (1,091 votes)

Paul Farfaglia (1,022 votes)

Mark Thorne (962 votes)

The following candidates were not elected:

Andrew Matyasik (808 votes)

Nicholas Edwards (800 votes)

The 2024-2025 tax levy increase of 2.98 percent is within the allowable tax levy limit as calculated under the state’s “tax cap” guidelines. Therefore, a simple majority was required for authorization. For details about the budget, visit the district’s budget website at nscsd.org/ budget

Village hall phones fixed

New digital system will save more than $200 per month

BY RuSS TARBY Contributing Writer

At its May 20 meeting, the Village of Liverpool Board of Trustees – Mayor Stacy Finney and trustees Melissa Cassidy, Rachel Ciotti, Matt Devendorf and Michael LaMontagne – decided to replace the village hall’s telephone lines.

“Many callers have been unable to get through to us on the phone,” said Village Clerk Mary Ellen Sims. “It’s not a good situation.”

So the village is canceling its current phone service provided by Spectrum and will replace it with a Session Initiation Protocol trunk.

A SIP trunk is the digital version of an analog trunk line that lets users receive incoming calls and make outgoing calls.

A SIP trunk allows users to make local or long-distance calls over the internet without using traditional phone lines.

Not only will the phone system become more reliable, Sims said, “We’ll also save some money.”

The village has been paying Spectrum nearly $400 per month for its telephone services, but the new SIP trunk will cost just $165 per month.

Eleven April accidents

At the village board’s monthly meeting on May 20, Police Chief Jerry Unger reported via memo that his officers made 108 traffic stops and issued 135 citations for violations of the state’s vehicle and traffic laws in the month of March.

Eleven accidents were investigated here last month, and two parking tickets were issued.

Officers made 103 residential checks and 301 business checks in April, while responding to a total of 693 incidents and calls for service. That number of monthly calls represents an average of 23 calls answered per day.

The LPD arrested 38 individuals last month on 44 criminal charges.

SCHOOlS & SCHOlARS

Sarosy honored at leadership banquet

Holden Sarosy, of Clay, was one of 49 SUNY Cortland students honored during the university’s 39th Annual Student Leadership Banquet for the integral leadership roles they’ve had on campus. Each spring, the university hosts the event to recognize student leaders for their outstanding service and commitment to the school and community.

Brewerton student on Columbia College spring dean’s list

Amanda Van Nostrand, of Brewerton, was named to Columbia College’s dean’s list for the spring 2024 Semester. To be named to the dean’s list, a student must have completed 12 credit hours in a 16-week period and achieved a minimum GPA of 3.5 on a 4.0-point scale.

local students on Belmont University spring dean’s list

Cicero residents Karah Edmonds and Payton Taffner were recently named to Belmont University’s dean’s list for the

spring 2024 semester. Approximately 44% of the University’s 7,338 undergraduate students qualified for the spring 2024 Dean’s List.

Dean’s List eligibility is based on a minimum course load of 12 hours and a quality grade point average of 3.5 with no grade below a C.

Cicero residents named to spring 2024 dean’s list

Cicero residents Stephanie Krick and Jessica Ricciardi were recently named to Pennsylvania Western University’s dean’s list for the 2024 spring semester.

Degree-seeking undergraduate students who achieve high academic standards will be identified for placement on the Dean’s List in accordance with the following criteria:

The student must earn a minimum semester GPA of 3.40.

The student must earn a minimum of 12 graded credits during the semester, not including credits by proficiency examinations, incomplete grades, temporary grades (e.g., Not Reported), or satisfactory/unsatisfactory grades

She’s a

when she first meets you, but once she gets comfortable with you, she’s sweet, loving, and very engaging. She’s about two years old and weighs fifty pounds. She knows sit, down, and shake, and she’s eager to learn more. She rides nicely in the car, and we think she’d make a lovely companion for almost any family. In order to adopt, you must fill out an application, pay an adoption fee, and have your pets up to date on their rabies vaccines. All adopted cats and dogs are spayed or neutered, microchipped, and up-to-date on their vaccinations before they go home. CNY SPCA is located at 5878 East Molloy Road, Syracuse. For more information about adoption, call 315-454-4479, email frontdesk1@ cnyspca.org, or visit cnyspca.org.

BY doNNA NEWmAN photo by donna neWman

Anne Klaczko, 54

Devoted wife, mother, grandmother and nurse

Anne (Friske) Klaczko, 54, of Camillus, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, May 21, 2024, at Upstate University Hospital, surrounded by her loving family. A lifetime resident of the Camillus area, she was a cherished member of her community and a devoted wife,

mother, grandmother and nurse.

Anne graduated from West Genesee High School and went on to earn her bachelor’s degree from the Crouse School of Nursing.

She dedicated over a decade of her career to Crouse Hospital and continued her service at Upstate University Hospital for another eight years.

Her commitment to caring for others was evident in her professional life and her personal interactions.

dorothy mcmaster, 103 Wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother

Dorothy Clark McMaster passed away on May 15, 2024, with family members by her side.

A resident of the Athenaeum in Skaneateles, she was 103 years old.

Born in 1921, she grew up in New Haven, CT and Flushing, N.Y., graduating from Flushing High School.

While living in New Haven, she used to attend football games at the Yale Bowl during the 1920s with her father.

She attended Barnard College where she graduated in 1942 and worked for American Airlines and in the travel industry after graduation.

Dorothy met her husband, Andrew McMaster, who preceded her in death in 2000, on a blind date in 1946.

Andrew had returned from active duty in World War II after serving in France and Germany.

Andrew and Dorothy were married on Oct. 26, 1946, at Grace Church in New York City, and initially lived in Sea Girt New Jersey.

Later, they moved to Morristown where their four sons were born.

In 1958 the family moved to Skaneateles where Dorothy lived for 66 years.

Dorothy was very active in St. James Episcopal Church,

serving on the Altar Guild, and in many other capacities including staffing the Thrift Shop.

She was also active with the Skaneateles Garden Club, Meals on Wheels and other local activities.

In retirement, Andrew and Dorothy were able to travel across North America (drove across the trans-Canada highway), South America, Europe and Africa.

She is survived by four sons, Peter, Stephen, Andrew Jr. and Robert, nine grandchildren, Phillip, Barry, Adam, Sarah, Megan, Andrew III, Matthew, Keiko, and Katherine, and eight great-grandchildren.

To send condolences, visit robertdgrayfuneralhome.com.

As a communicant of St. Joseph’s Church, Anne’s faith was a guiding force in her life.

She was known for her unwavering support of her family, particularly as a proud dance mom who devoted countless hours to encouraging and celebrating her children’s achievements.

Anne was predeceased by her parents, Edward and Doris Friske.

She is survived by her loving husband of 37 years, Donald Klaczko; sons, Donald Jr. (Bonni) of Camillus, Michael (Christie) of Rochester, and Andrew (Amanda) of Milton, VT; daughter, Kathryn Klaczko of Camillus; beloved granddaughter, Eliza Klaczko; twin grandsons on the way; brothers, Charles (Manette) Friske of Columbus, OH, John (Sandy) Friske of Camillus, William (Huisuk) Friske of Troy, Edward (Mary) Friske of Massapequa, Robert (Diane) Friske of Belmont, WA, Michael (Diane) Friske of Chicago, IL, and Stephen (Rena) Friske of Reedville, VA; sister, Margaret (Paul) Richardson of Camillus; and many nieces and nephews.

There were no calling hours.

A funeral Mass was celebrated on

DEATH NOTICES

Tuesday, May 28, 2024, at 12:30 p.m. at St. Joseph’s Church, 5600 W. Genesee St., Camillus. Burial was private. In lieu of flowers, contributions in Anne’s memory may be made to St. Joseph’s Church Food Pantry, 5600 W. Genesee St., Camillus, NY 13031. Share condolences at buranichfh.com.

Anne Klaczko

dorothy mcmaster

Shirley A. Lippert, 87, of Warners passed to be with her Lord and Savior on May 21, 2024. The Bush Funeral Home of Elbridge has arrangements.

Grilling season

While many Central New Yorkers would contend that winter is no reason not to cook outside on the grill, for many summer is the traditional season when it comes to grilling and other forms of outdoor cooking.

Whether it is burgers and hotdogs, smoking ribs or brisket for hours, whipping up a more complicated dish or cooking up seafood, vegetarian options like Portobello mushrooms or newer meatless alternatives, many would agree there is just something about food that has been cooked on the grill.

There is a flavor that many look forward to enjoying during these long summer days spent with friends and family enjoying an afternoon or evening outside relaxing and sharing good food together.

But whether it is a high end outdoor kitchen arrangement, a gas grill, charcoal or even roasting some hot dogs and marshmallows over a fire, it is important to keep certain safety measures in mind as these fires cause an average of $37 million in damage annually to properties, structures, and possessions, including gazebos, sheds and lawn furniture.

And thousands of people visit emergency rooms every year because they’ve burned themselves while grilling.

According to the Firefighters Association of the State of New York (FASNY) emergency departments nationwide have seen a significant rise over the past decade in the number of visits from grilling injuries, with an 18% rise in patients being treated in emergency departments for grilling-related injuries over the past 10 years.

NFPA data shows that from 2014-2018, fire departments responded to an annual average of 10,600 home fires annually involving grills, hibachis, or barbecues.

This includes 4,900 structure fires and 5,700 outside or unclassified fires.

These fires resulted in an annual average of 10 civilian deaths, 160 civilian injuries, and $149 million in direct property damage.

Some basics of grilling safety include keeping a fully functioning fire extinguisher close by and making sure you know how to use it in the event it is needed.

It is also good to get into the habit of keeping your grill or other cooking surfaces clean.

The build up of grease and fat can cause flare ups that might not only ruin your food but may lead to a potentially more serious fire.

It is also important to remember to grill in a well ventilated area.

The potential for carbon monoxide to build up, particularly with charcoal, can pose a potential health risk.

AAA has shared a number of other tips to help ensure you and your guests are safe when cooking outdoors.

Before grilling, read and follow the owner’s manual. Place your grill at least 10 feet away from walls and deck railings to prevent fires from igniting buildings. Keep your grill away from decorations, such as hanging plants and umbrellas.

People should also never leave a lit grill unattended.

If the flame on your grill goes out, turn the grill and gas off. Wait at least 15 minutes before relighting and always make sure your grill lid is open before igniting.

Maintenance and storage are also important considerations.

When setting up at the start of grilling season, check grill hoses for cracks, holes, and blockages. Blockages caused by food drippings or insects can be cleared with a wire or pipe cleaner.

Run a soap solution – one part liquid soap, one part water – along hoses and at connections. If the solution bubbles, then there is a gas leak that needs repair.

Store propane tanks outside and away from your home. Always check to ensure that valves are turned off.

AAA also recommends being aware of what is covered by insurance should a property owner have an accident.

Following the tips above may help prevent a grill fire from spreading to your home, but if a fire does occur, a standard homeowners policy typically covers the following: Damage to the primary residence; Damage to personal possessions, such as tables or lawn chairs; Damage to insured structures on your property, such as sheds or gazebos; and Injuries to a guest, under the liability portion of the policy.

By taking a few minutes to ensure you and your grill are being as safe as possible, it will help to make sure you and your guests can enjoy your time together enjoying good company and good food this summer.

Another budding filmmaker rolls cameras locally

Since buying the old Liverpool High School building in 2017, American High has produced more than a dozen films here, mostly teen-oriented romantic comedies. Now a new independent filmmaker, Andrew Donegan, will shoot scenes here too.

His movie’s working title is “Smile More.” And its plot focuses on a woman’s unfortunate encounter with a male convenience store clerk.

m e Too plot

“In the age of the Me Too movement, I wanted to relate to some of what women have to go through in regards to men’s unwanted advances and how it might escalate into something unexpected,” said Donegan who attended Onondaga Community College and is participating in WCNY-TV’s Entertainment Academy.

Donegan’s hoping to shoot on location at Onondaga Lake Park and Long Branch Park. “Smile More” is being produced by Defector Films in association with Yellow House Media LLC.

“We are not affiliated with American High,” Donegan told me, “but have been in contact about possibly using their resources.”

At WCNY’s Entertainment Academy, Donegan and his crew work with industry professionals, American High being one of them.

“This film is being self-funded by myself,” Donegan said, “with crew members and actors volunteering to work for free… We hope to put together a crew that will continue to grow together. We plan to enter this film into festivals, and use it to help us raise funds for our next projects.’

Donegan plans to roll cameras on Monday, June 10.

Third bridge strike

The third bridge strike of the year reportedly occurred at 11:40 a.m. Friday, May 17 when a truck heading south on the Onondaga Lake Parkway from the village struck the infamous low railroad bridge. No word from local police agencies assessing the accident damage or reporting any traffic tickets issued.

Syr m ets on a roll

Since May 7, the Syracuse Mets have been the winningest team in all of professional baseball!

The local International League entry has won 11 games while losing three over that

Livin’ in Liverpool

russ Tarby

period, which is the best record in all of baseball, including Major-League Baseball and all if its minor leagues. During this stretch, the Mets lead the league with a .282 batting average and 101 runs scored, and the Syracuse pitching staff ranks second with a 3.90 ERA, behind only Buffalo’s 3.51 ERA.

That’s some pretty effective hurling, but the SyrMets’ hitters have been even more impressive. Shortstop Luisangel Acuña enjoyed a ten-game hitting streak this month, and two journeymen outfielders each clobbered three home runs in one game each.

Three homers each

A 30-year-old Hoosier, Mike Brousseau – who has played in the Show for both the Tampa Bay Rays and Milwaukee Brewers –did it first on May 14 going deep in each of his three at-bats against the Iowa Cubs.

Three days later, 33-year-old Angeleno Trayce Thompson cracked three dingers while earning five RBI, also against Iowa. Thompson was later named the league’s Player of the Week. In six games at home against Iowa, Thompson went 9-for-22 with six home runs, a double, and nine RBIs. For the season, Thompson is tied for the league lead with 13 home runs and ranks fourth with 35 RBIs.

Over the past decade, Thompson has enjoyed eight different stints in the major leagues with five different teams, most recently the Los Angeles Dodgers and the Chicago White Sox.

The SyrMets are home again this week with games scheduled against the Buffalo Bisons at 6:35 p.m. Wednesday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday and at 1:05 p.m. Sunday, June 2, at the redundantly named NBT Bank Stadium; milb.com/Syracus e ; 315-4747833.

Sorry, Susan In last week’s page-one story about the upcoming summer concert season at Johnson Park, I inexplicable neglected to list the Liverpool Is The Place secretary, Susan Farnsworth. The omission is unfortunate because Susan has been a dedicated member of the LITP Committee for more than a decade.

Last word

“Adversity really kind of defines you. It makes you crumble or it defines you.” – Syracuse Mets power-hitting outfielder Trayce Thompson.

FROM THE MAILBAG

Freyleues should resign

To the editor:

The recent arrest of Baldwinsville Village Trustee Donna Freyleue and her wife, Lysander Democratic Chair Vickie Freyleue, has sent shockwaves through our community. Charged with stalking and harassment for sending anonymous, disturbing mail and packages to the Bakers over a five-month period, their actions are not only criminal but also a gross violation of public trust. It is imperative that they both resign from their positions immediately.

Elected officials are expected to be paragons of integrity and role models for the community. Their actions set the tone for what is acceptable behavior, and their influence extends beyond policy into the very fabric of our societal norms. The Freyleues’ behavior falls egregiously short of these expectations. By engaging in such reprehensible conduct, they have demonstrated a complete lack of judgment and respect for the values they are supposed to uphold.

The nature of the harassment—a sustained campaign of fear and intimidation— reflects a troubling mindset that is wholly incompatible with public service. These actions not only traumatized the victims but also cast a long shadow over the offices they hold. How can the community trust leaders who resort to such tactics? Their continued presence in their roles is a daily

reminder of the erosion of ethical standards in our local governance.

Moreover, this incident sets a dangerous precedent for our children, who look up to community leaders as examples to emulate. What lesson do we impart when those in power are allowed to behave with impunity? We must convey that such behavior is unacceptable and that accountability is paramount, regardless of one’s position.

The Freyleues have had ample opportunity to serve their community honorably. Instead, they chose a path of malice and intimidation. To restore faith in our local government and reaffirm our commitment to ethical leadership, they must step down. This is not merely a call for justice for the Bakers but a necessary step to heal our community and ensure that our leaders embody the principles they are elected to represent.

In conclusion, the resignation of Donna and Vickie Freyleue is not just necessary; it is a moral imperative. Our community deserves leaders who inspire trust, uphold the law, and serve as positive examples. The Freyleues have proven they are incapable of fulfilling these roles. It is time for them to resign and allow our community to move forward with integrity and renewed trust in our public institutions.

CALEB

C. SLATER Candidate for nyS Senate diStriCt 48

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MINNESOTA’S MOMENT?

Minnesota evokes many different thoughts.

Lakes, including one that sources the Mississippi River. Mary Richards throwing her hat up in the air. Home of Bob Dylan and Prince. A state that sent Eugene McCarthy to the Senate and Walter Mondale to the Vice Presidency, yet also elected Jesse Ventura as governor. That Jesse Ventura. The Body. From wrestling and movies.

But Minnesota as the sports focal point of the nation? Unlikely, but it did happen.

From May 1991 to April

1992, a Stanley Cup final, U.S. Open golf championship, World Series, Super Bowl and men’s basketball Final Four all took place in or near the Twin Cities and we got an up-close glimpse at just how passionate sports fans are, while never once getting obnoxious.

Then the moment passed.

Within two years, the North Stars were gone, to Dallas, leaving the State of Hockey without professional hockey at the highest level. The Twins, after adding a title to go with its unlikely 1987 run, have

Crouse Health has received “LGBTQ+ Healthcare Equality High Performer” designation from the Human Rights Campaign Foundation (HRC). The designation was awarded in the 16th iteration of HRC’s Healthcare Equality Index (HEI) just released. A record 1,065 healthcare facilities participated in the HEI 2024 survey and scoring process. Of those, 462 received the “LGBTQ+ Healthcare Equality High Performer” designation.

“To further support our mission to provide the best in patient care and promote community health, the work of diversity, equity, inclusion & belonging (DEI&B) has never been more important and hardwiring DEI&B across the organization is our priority,” said Seth Kronenberg, MD, Crouse Health president and CEO. “As a leading healthcare employer in Central New York, it is critical for Crouse Health to strategically focus on addressing the health equity gap, equitable care, cultural patient experiences and assist the organization in prioritizing the creation of a more equitable and inclusive work environment,”

“We continue to be enthused about our participation in the HRC’s Healthcare Index Equality process as it provides a roadmap

never gone back to the Fall Classic and went 21 years without even winning a post-season series.

And the Vikings. Oh, the Vikings. From the agony of missed field goals to the further agony of an illtimed Brett Favre throw to Tracy Porter to watching, in its new stadium in February 2018, the same Philadelphia Eagles who handed the Purple Gang another NFC title game heartache then beat the almighty Patriots to win it all.

All the while, they played NBA basketball in Minnesota. It just wasn’t

that helps to further hardwire our DEI&B efforts across the organization and celebrate our growth, going from our 2019 status to becoming a High Performer in 2024,” said Dr. Twiggy Eure, director of DEI&B at Crouse. Our goal is to reach the Leader status. We work hard to ensure that our culture of belonging strengthens our ability to meet and provide meaningful care and support to our Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender and Queer (LBGTQ+) patients, families, and employees.

We look forward to continuing our efforts and collaborating with our LGBTQ+ vendors, patients, employees and community.”

This year’s HEI comes as LGBTQ+ adults are twice as likely as non-LGBTQ+ adults to be “treated unfairly or with disrespect by a doctor or healthcare provider” in the last three years, according to the Kaiser Family Foundation. The impact of antiLGBTQ+ legislation combined with a history of discrimination in healthcare settings has the potential to cause even more LGBTQ+ people to delay or avoid seeking healthcare, which makes the HEI even more meaningful for those looking to find LGBTQ+-inclusive care.

About dEI&B at Crouse health

As the only locally-governed hospital, Crouse Health values

good. The Timberwolves had a moment in 2004 where, with MVP Kevin Garnett, it got to a conference final. But the Shaq-Kobe Lakers snuffed it out. Worse yet, Garnett went to Boston and won a ring four years later. More losing followed, but finally the Wolves are snarling again. A proven veteran in Karl-Anthony Towns. A budding superstar in Anthony Edwards. The nerve to rally from 15 down at halftime to win a Game 7 on the road at Denver against the champion Nuggets.

Best of all, it’s another chance to discover the unique passion Minnesota has for all of its sports, something that isn’t limited to a single (cold) season. Oh sure, hockey gets most of the love, deservedly so. From 20,000 in St. Paul to watch high school championships to the college game in Duluth, Mankato and other stops to the Wild, it still sets the standard for the sport this side of Canada. Don’t forget about the other big sports, though. Whether it was the Golden Gophers early in the 20th

century to the Vikings now, they take football seriously, even if it’s not as completely religious as, say, Ohio or Georgia or Texas. Look what happens every time Minnesota hosts a big golf event. Whether it’s a PGA Championship or Ryder Cup at Hazeltine or the relatively new PGA Tour event, the crowds are enormous and full of hearty golfers who probably have played a round or two when there was snow on the ground. We haven’t forgotten

diversity, equity, inclusion and belonging (DEI&B) among our employees, patients and the families we serve. Our mission calls us to provide the best in patient care. To do so, we need to strengthen our ability to serve our patients.

In 2014, Crouse formed the Diversity and Inclusion Committee, comprised of a small group of employees from multiple areas as way to bring attention to helping Crouse become a more diverse employer and to better serve both the organization and the community with three key goals in mind: To educate the Crouse Health community about the importance and value of DEI&B; increase professional opportunities for Crouse Health employees, with an emphasis on DEI&B, and to increase awareness of the Crouse culture in diverse communities. Today, the committee has grown to 31 members and is led by Dr. Eure.

We believe that DEI&B is much more than just hiring for diversity. It is a deeper, ongoing investment to ensure the practices, processes, policies and programs are in place are equitable, inclusive, and effective at cultivating a greater sense of belonging for all. When diversity, equity, and inclusion are working together, it creates an environment of belonging for all. Through our di-

verse recruitment efforts, equity work across the hospital, ongoing employee education, and DEI&B partnerships and collaborations, we believe we will continue to make good progress.

In 2023, Crouse expanded its focus with the formation of the DEI&B Community Advisory Board to provide the organization with additional insight and expertise. This board is co-chaired by Dr. Seth Kronenberg and Dr. Melvin Stith and made up of a select group of 20 Syracuse community leaders who serve as a sounding board to help support our work in addressing the health equity gap, equitable care, cultural patient experiences and assist the organization in prioritizing the creation of a more equitable and inclusive work environment. About the human Rights Campaign Foundation

The Human Rights Campaign Foundation is the educational arm of the Human Rights Campaign (HRC), America’s largest civil rights organization working to achieve equality for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and queer (LGBTQ+) people. Through its programs, the HRC Foundation seeks to make transformational change in the everyday lives of LGBTQ+ people, shedding light

on inequity and deepening the public’s understanding of LGBTQ+ issues, with a clear focus on advancing transgender and racial justice. Its work has transformed the landscape for more than 15 million workers, 11 million students, 1 million clients in the adoption and foster care system and so much more. The HRC Foundation provides direct consultation and technical assistance to institutions and communities, driving the advancement of inclusive policies and practices; it builds the capacity of future leaders and allies through fellowship and training programs; and, with the firm belief that we are stronger working together, it forges partnerships with advocates in the U.S. and around the globe to increase our impact and shape the future of our work.

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‘Biggest Bake Sale Ever’ to be held at Clay VFD

Will benefit HumaneCNy

The HumaneCNY

“Biggest Bake Sale Ever” was such a great success at its new location last year ... just in time for Father’s Day, it will be held again.

The bake sale is on June 15 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Clay Volunteer Fire Department on 4383 Route 31 in Clay.

“Each year we have a magnificent group of volunteers and bakers, so please stop by and pick-up a dessert for Father’s Day there will be every kind and flavor cookies, cakes, cup cakes, pies, candy, even sugar free and gluten free, “ said Bethann Kistner, chair. “Plus, how could we forget pet treats, we’ll have those, too.”

professional bakers to create a delicious event. If you have a sweet tooth, this will be the place for you, plus we have a very nice silent auction and a sale for crafty jewelry makers. It’s really a fun event that raises much needed funds!

“Each year this “Bake Sale” gets Bigger and Bigger and even though we missed a few years – last year it came back bigger and better in the new location! There is no other like it in CNY,” said Cheryl Robinson, board president. “We continue to assemble over a hundred individual and

“Proceeds from this event will help hundreds of animals needing major medical care,” said Maureen Davison, shelter executive director. “Since the pandemic the number of neglected and abused animals have increased and we are in great

need of funds to pay for medical costs.”

HumaneCNY is the area’s largest nokill shelter. It is a not-for-profit organization that receives neither public funding nor support from any national organization.

It depends upon the generosity of the Central New York, community for its existence, and is always in need of donations to continue caring for the hundreds of homeless animals that enter its doors yearly and await their forever homes.

Erie Canalway Photo Contest – call for entries

Submission

deadline is aug 30

As the NYS Canal System opens for the season, the Erie Canalway National Heritage Corridor is calling for entries for its annual Erie Canalway Photo Contes t

Amateur and professional photographers are invited to submit up to three images that capture the canals’ beauty, vibrancy, and character.

Winning photos will be featured in the 2025 Bicentennial Erie Canalway Calendar.

Entries must be postmarked by Aug. 30, 2024.

Images will be judged in four contest categories: On the Water, Along the Trail, Canal Celebrations and Communities and Classic Canal. Judges will select first, second and third place winning images in each category, as well as 12 honorable mentions.

Submitted images must be horizontal format and taken within the Erie Canalway National Heritage Corridor, which spans 524 miles across the full expanse of upstate New York. It encompasses the Erie, Cayuga-Seneca, Oswego and Champlain

I believe golf leagues are the best way for beginners and all golfers to improve their golf game because it commits an individual to play at least once a week, instead of once a month or even less o en. It also challenges them to practice more because they want to play their best on league night. Are their additional bene ts of joining a league? Of course. Check these out from Matthew Woods, a Golf Blogger.

Bene ts:

Social…Leagues are a wonderful way to meet new people and make friends.. many remain life long friends.

Networking…Golf leagues allow you the opportunity to build relationships that can bene t you both on and o the course.

Fun…Playing in a golf league simply provides pleasure and enjoyment with memories that can last a lifetime.

Mental...Golf improves con dence, self esteem, prevents anxiety and dementia.

Health...Walking a golf course is one of the healthiest activities to extend longevity.

ere are di erent types of leagues you can join to match your own own unique interests. ey include:

Men’s Leagues…Typically open to golfers of all skill levels, usually by handicap, and into divisions based on ability.

Women’s Leagues…Similar to men’s leagues and typically meet once or twice a week.

Mixed Leagues…Open to golfers of all genders and by handicap. ey can be a great way for men and women to meet and play golf together.

Senior Male or Female Leagues… Usually open to golfers who are 55 years of age or older and by handicap. Great way for seniors to stay active and socialize.

Corporate Leagues…Organized by businesses for their employees to enjoy some friendly competition.

Tournament Leagues…Are usually organized around a series of tournaments where players earn points based on their nish in competitions. ese leagues are for players who have higher ambitions.

Social Leagues… ese leagues are strictly for people whose objective is to have “fun” and meet “new” people.

Nothing wrong with that.

How do you nd a golf league?

Go to the Pro Shop of your local public golf course and ask about their leagues.

Read articles in your local newspapers and golf magazines. Also look for advertisements.

Search online directories for location, type of league and other criteria.

Use social media to nd leagues who promote themselves.

Ask your friends, family, and other golfers if they need new members.

Tips for playing in a golf league:

Practice regularly to improve your game. It will improve your scores and help your team to win.

Be prepared to play in di erent conditions, including rain, wind and cold weather.

Have fun…try to relax…

Don’t take yourself too seriously.

Enjoy the journey.

Your golf skills will improve dramatically faster if you take a “series” of lessons from a CNY PGA Golf Professional.

I took the liberty of adding a few here and there to compliment Matthew’s list.

Geneva music Festival to begin 14th season

Entering its 14th season, the Geneva Music Festival has thrilled both residents and visitors to the Finger Lakes each summer.

With a series of concerts that spans May through June, and an emphasis on chamber music and community outreach, the festival consistently brings world-class music to Geneva.

The festival’s theme for the concert series this year is “Light and Dark,” an exploration of contrasts in music and in life.

over the weeks of the festival; and new headliners.

New artists this year include fusion ensemble Biribá Union, who will kick off the season at local winery Ravines on May 19 with a tantalizing synthesis of Brazilian beats, bluegrass, jazz, classical, hip-hop, funk and pop.

cert season’s cycles of light and dark in music renditions promises to the best yet.

The Geneva Music Festival was founded in 2011 by Geneva, New York violinist Geoffrey Herd as a weekend of chamber music in his hometown.

The festival has grown over its 14 years to a nearly month-long event that draws thousands of attendees from across the Finger Lakes region.

Each concert season features a mix of “artistsin-residence” who have performed with the festival for many seasons, composing a community

l From page 5

Also new to the Festival are the storied Brentano String Quartet, performing May 30 at the Gearan Center; and the Kate McGarry and Keith Ganz Ensemble, who will wow listeners with enchanting jazz vocals at the Cracker Factory June 2.

With artists new and old, inventive concert venues, and exceptional musicianship, this con -

Each year, the Festival continues its mission of inspiring people with world-class chamber music and engaging diverse audiences in its outreach programs.

To learn more, and to purchase tickets, visit genevamusicfestival.com.

fans who’ve long smiled and watch others celebrate sports titles get a chance to smile and celebrate one of their own teams winning the ultimate prize? You betcha.

Pictured is 2023 contest winner, “Paddler in Macedon,” by Dan Judd.

Jan regan

Anna Petrova, piano, and Clive Greensmith, cello, perform during the 2023 GmF season.

C-NS tops Liverpool for girls sectional title

BY PhIL BLACKWELL

Once more the Cicero-North Syracuse girls track and field team made sure the Section III Class AA championship did not leave home.

Liverpool put up a strong challenge in last Monday’s sectional meet at Bragman Stadium but the Northstars, with 162 points, got away from the 126.5 put up by the Warriors.

Anna Eells set the pace for C-NS, her sensational freshman season continuing with a sweep of three field events and another third-place finish that amounted to 36 points.

Eells won the high jump, where she cleared 5 feet 6 inches, and had a top long jump of 18’ 3/4” as the Northstars had Selena Moreno fourth, Samantha Moreno fifth and Morgan Hayes sixth. Finally, in the triple jump Eells went 39’2” to Hayes’ second-place 36’3 1/2”, with the Moreno sisters in fourth and fifth place.

Key sprint points for C-NS came from Jaydin Mackey, who in 12.31 seconds won the 100-meter dash over four Liverpool challengers - Mikayla Greene (12.38), Maddie Devendorf (12.48), Mia Wright (12.63) and Nahla Battle-Crenshaw (12.65).

And when that Liverpool quartet tried to repeat its May 16 SCAC Metro meet victory in the 4x100, C-NS denied them as Mackey, Hayes, Stepha -

nie Todd and Grace Murray going 48.38 seconds to edge Liverpool’s 48.42. Greene got even in the 200-meter dash, beating Mackey by one-hundredth of a second, 25.47 seconds to 25.48, while Wright prevailed in the 400-meter dash, going 58.58 to the 59.28 from B’ville’s Kamryn Barton, with C-NS’s Alexa Belknap fourth and Camryn Jacob sixth. The Warriors also won the 4x400 relay when Wright, Greene, Devendorf and Taylor Page went 4:01.46 to beat out the 4:04.24 from the Northstars’ quartet of Murray, Belknap, Jacob and Todd. This came after Page beat the field in the

800-meter run going 2:19.61 and got second in the 1,500-meter run in 4:57.86, with Kailtyn Hotaling third in 5:04.84. Layla Pearl Collins prevailed in the pole vault, clearing 10 feet as no one else even reached 9 feet. Murray got her turn at the top in the 400 hurdles, her 1:03.84 nearly six seconds clear of the field as Aaliyah McDonald (1:11.21) was fourth. Jasmine Ayre claimed the pentathlon for C-NS, earning 2,423 points to outlast a field that included Liverpool’s Alannah Edwards, who was fifth with 1,926. Camilla MacNaught went 7:54.42 to finish second in the 2,000 steeplechase.

Though it didn’t win the 100 hurdles, the Northstars still got 17 points as Mackey in 14.72 seconds, was close behind Utica Proctor’s Chennia Locke (14.65), with Eells third (14.84), Hayes fifth (14.91) and McDonald sixth (15.49). Cameron Sisk added a fourth-place finish in the 800-meter run as Annie Capone was fourth and Natta Luangaphay fifth in the pole vault.

Liverpool’s Charlotte Warner added a fourth in the 2,000 steeplechase in 8:01.87, with Addison Ziegler sixth as she also was fifth in the 400 hurdles. Audrey Jenkins was fifth and Georgia Jwaskiewicz sixth in the

high jump. Meanwhile, in the boys sectional Class AA meet C-NS had a strong runner-up finish, its 123 points only trailing the 173.5 from Baldwinsville, while Liverpool was third with 77 points.

Winning twice, C-NS’s Joe Main threw the shot put 49’11 1/4”, beating the field by more than four feet, and also was victorious in the discus with 145’2” that was nine feet clear of his challengers.

Completing a pentathlon sweep for the Northstars, Andrew Potter took it with 2,779 points. Freshman Jaiden Tagliarino stepped up and won the 110 hurdles in 16.03 seconds, while Anthony

Johnson stepped up with a winning triple jump of 42’6 1/2”.

Davine Bennett got second in the 100-meter dash in 11.17 seconds as Derick Hicks (11.38) was fourth. Rhett Andrews took second (4:38.27) and Dante Melfi third (4:44.33) in the 1,600meter run and Dan Henry was second in the 400 sprint in 51.45. In the 3,000 steeplechase, Tyler Graham went 10:31.91 to gain second, with Nolan Zinsmeyer sixth. Christian Kahrs went 23.50 for fourth place in the 200 and Andrews was sixth in the 3,200-meter run. Colin Daley topped 10’6” for fifth place in the pole vault.

C-NS rallies for sectional baseball win over RFA

BY PhIL BLACKWELL

A single big inning made the difference for the Cicero-North Syracuse and Liverpool baseball teams in the Section III Class AAA quarterfinals, sending one side forward – and the other out of the tournament.

It was the no. 3 seed Northstars who survived, making a timely late comeback to beat no. 6 seed Rome Free Academy 4-3 last Tuesday at the Gillette Road Complex, while the no. 5 seed Warriors ousted in a 5-2 decision to no. 4 seed Christian Brothers Academy at Tom Dotterer Field.

The points system that determined the sectional bracket proved quite favorable to C-NS, though it didn’t seem that way for quite a while against an RFA side against which it split two

other one-run games during the regular season.

They were 0-0 until the top of the fourth, when the Black Knights scored twice off Kaden Kalfass, both runs driven in by Peter Summa. Then RFA added a run in the sixth to create a 3-0 margin, all of this despite Kalfass amassing 14 strikeouts.

For most of the game, the Northstars found it tough to solve Black Knights ace Mike Catalano, but all of that changed in the bottom of the sixth.

Roaring to life, C-NS caught up and then passed the Black Knights, chasing Catalano and getting big hits off reliever Michael Flint.

Battista Wood and Kenton Cochran were credited with RBIs as Andrew Davis, Carter King, Joe Lukasiewicz and Ben Watkins scored those runs. Jaden

Zimmer added a pair of hits.

Wood also stood out in relief, getting the final three outs in the top of the seventh to help the Northstars advance to a semifinal against no. 2 seed Utica Proctor, who ousted Syracuse City in a 5-4, 12-inning epic.

As for Liverpool, it would try to replicate its magical 2023 run to the sectional Class AA title, only to get turned back by a CBA side it had lost to in the regular-season finale just three days earlier.

All went well in the early going, the Warriors poking across a run in the top of the second and maintaining that 1-0 lead for a while thanks to strong pitching from Nate Benjamin.

Then, in the bottom of the fifth, it all changed.

CBA’s bats got to both Benjamin

and reliever Tyler Vivacqua, with three doubles from Jimmy Kennedy, Tim Scholl and Cooper Marko followed by a two-run home run from Riley Clemons-Butenko.

Despite getting a run in the seventh, Liverpool could not recover as Brothers reliever Tom Menar went the final two innings after Ryan Petrie started, the pair giving up six hits between them. Benjamin had two of those hits as he and Anderson Roden scored the runs.

Anthony Testone, Chris Baker and Bailey O’Connor joined Roden in the hit column, but the Warriors’ season finished with a 12-9 record.

For more sectional playoff coverage go to eaglenewsonline.com

Liverpool, C-NS softball win sectional AAA semifinals

BY PhIL BLACKWELL

For a lot of people inside and outside the fences at Carrier Park last Friday night, it would feel like old times.

Just as they had done so often over the last four decades or so, Liverpool and Cicero-North Syracuse would get together on a softball diamond, decide a Section III championship and see who would move on to the state tournament.

Six years had passed since this last took place – 2018, to be precise. While the two sides met in the 2021 sectional Class AA final, the lingering COVID19 pandemic forced a cancellation of the state tournament for the second year in a row.

This particular match-up may have felt unlikely for much of the spring, given the presence of Baldwinsville with all of its experience gained from

back-to-back finals appearances and winning the 2023 sectional title.

But in last Wednesday’s sectional semifinals at Carrier Park, C-NS ended the Bees’ hopes of repeating with an 8-5 victory that echoed what had gone on in the regular season.

Even through its ups and downs, what the Northstars had already proven was that it could beat B’ville, for it did so 3-0 back on April 16 and then rallied to win 3-2 in eight innings at the Gillette Road complex earlier in May.

Here, C-NS got the jump with single runs off Bella Hotchkiss in the first two innings, unfazed by the hour-long weather delay that pushed back the start of the game.

In the top of the third, though, Hotchkiss keyed a five-run Bees outburst with a two-run home run, all of which chased starting pitcher Kiyara Bembry, who had pitched 7 1/3 innings

the last time these two sides met.

Taking over in the circle, eighthgrader Mila Owens got C-NS out of the third inning and then, for the rest of the night, proved masterful, limiting a potent Bees lineup to two hits and overcoming five walks with four strikeouts.

Meanwhile, the Northstars regrouped at the plate and, in the bottom of the fourth, answered with a five-run rally of its own, solving Hotchkiss and taking a 7-5 lead which it added to with another run in the sixth.

Of C-NS’s 10 hits, three came from Sydney Rockwell, who singled twice, doubled and drove in a pair of runs.

Paige Pangaro also had two RBIs as Sydney Puttkamer got two hits and scored twice, with Aubrey Coyle, Eva Farone and Erica Hibbard also driving in runs.

While all this was going on, Liverpool, the top seed, earned its own trip

to the sectional final with a comprehensive effort against no. 4 seed Rome Free Academy that resulted in an 8-0 win over the Black Knights.

Again it started with Mackenzie Frani as the senior pitcher shut down an RFA lineup which had not seen her all season. All that Frani allowed was a single hit to Kendiee Campbell and three walks while putting up 11 strikeouts.

For its part, Liverpool had to stay patient as, for four innings, Black Knights pitcher Madison Safin kept them quiet. But that all changed in the bottom of the fifth.

The Warriors broke out for four runs in that frame and then doubled that 4-0 lead in the sixth. Ava Falvo and Lauren Ragonese both got two hits and scored twice, with Joelle Wike adding a pair of RBIs as Emly Neston and Alivia Henty also drove in runs and Frani pounded out three hits.

Cicero-North Syracuse’s girls track and field team earned the Section III Class AA championship Monday at Bragman Stadium, earning 162 points to beat out the 126.5 from runner-up Liverpool. Track