Dear eNews Reader,
I’ve been taking advantage of these summer months, although there certainly have been some weather challenges. Looking forward to Spiedie Fest and a full roster of August activities. We’ve also been spending a lot of time addressing community needs regarding the loss of SNAP benefits, the cuts to local not-for-profit grants that were linked to federal funds, and the growing needs of our homeless population. Fortunately, City of Binghamton and County leaders are actively coordinating efforts, involving state representatives and many others.
Donna
Construction Underway on 363 Gateway
DOT Commissioner Dominguez was in town to officially break ground on the 363 Gateway Project. Pre-construction work began in February with tree and brush clearing, with hundreds of new trees and thousands of plants and flowers planned for the area. This long-awaited investment will modernize critical infrastructure, create safer access to downtown, and expand recreational opportunities. Thank you to the entire DOT team for undertaking this major redesign.
Hooper Rd. Apartments Officially Open
Senator Webb and I helped cut the ribbon on the new Hooper Road Apartments. It has 80 units of affordable and supportive housing for seniors over 62, along with all-electric features, a community room with a kitchen, and a communal patio area. We need a lot more units like this to fill the overwhelming need. Thank you to all who worked on this project for many years.
Welcoming the Newest U.S. Citizens to Our Community
I was honored to speak at a Naturalization Ceremony at the Broome County Courthouse where 7 individuals were officially sworn in as U.S. Citizens. It was a moving ceremony, reminding us that citizenship is both a privilege and a responsibility. We welcomed and congratulated them on achieving this important milestone, recognizing their perseverance and commitment to achieving this goal. A big thank you to the Southern Tier Barbershop Chorus who performed.
Celebrating Women’s Athletics
Binghamton University hosted its first “Women Leaders for Binghamton Athletics” reception where we heard from President Anne D’Alleva, Athletics Director Gene Marshall, and the softball, basketball, and volleyball coaches about their vision for the future. Binghamton is home to many talented women student athletes; we hope that more people will get out and enjoy their games. Go Bearcats!
Parking and admission to most games are free of charge. Check out the link below for next year’s sports schedules!
Enjoying Local Events
First Friday. I attended the opening of a new gallery in the Holiday Inn Arena featuring the work of E.B. Schott. Click here for more information on August’s First Friday.
Carousel Day at CFJ Park, hosted by the Johnson City Rotary Club. Click here for more information on the carousel planned for Arnold Park in Vestal.
St. John’s Ukrainian Festival in Johnson City. They are celebrating their 100th Anniversary (1926-2026) this year.
An Evening of Wine and Roses at the Discovery Center. I was honored to receive their Annual Bloom Award, a beautiful flower sculpture by Jim Hargrave.
The 151st Broome County Fair. I learned how to show a cow and received an Honorary Empire Degree from the New York State FFA Association.