🌱 Intersection Closure + Anita's Steven Swan Humane Society Telethon

Good morning, friends! It's me, Nicole Fallon-Peek, your host of the Utica Patch newsletter. Keep reading for the most important things happening in town these days.

But first, today's weather:

Periods of snow and rain. High: 45 Low: 30.

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Here are the top three stories in Utica today:

1. Morning commuters, be aware that a major intersection will be closed for the duration of the day. The intersection of South Street and Mohawk Street will be closed beginning at 7:00 a.m. for the demolition of 645 South Street, which burned down on New Year's Day. The building has sat empty and boarded up since the fire. (WKTV)
2. Following a two-year hiatus, Anita's Steven Swan Humane Society telethon will return on May 3. The shelter typically relies on the community's generosity to make monetary or item donations to care for the largest number of animals possible. Sponsorship opportunities are available, and sponsor donation levels begin at $1,000 to $10,000. For more information about sponsoring, visit here. (WKTV)
3. Utica residents may see more filming in the area! Film Utica is the first fully operational film commission in Utica and operates out of the historic Stanley Theatre. The commission hopes this will bring more film development to the upstate New York area. (Syracuse)

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Today in Utica:

• Movie Monday At Utica Public Library (5:30 PM)
• Creative Crafts With COMPHS At Utica Public Library (6:00 PM)

From my notebook:

• The Rome Rescue Mission needs your help! Common Council President Stephanie Viscelli and 3rd Ward Councilor Kim Rogers are teaming up with DeSalvo's for an Easter Food Drive. On Saturday, Apr. 1, from 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m., you can stop by DeSalvo's with your donation. Suggested food items and more information can be found here. (Talk of the Town via Facebook)
• This weekend, Chief Mark Williams and executive board members of the John E. Creedon Police Benevolent Association hosted the Utica Police Department's youngest recruit. Graham Robertello was made an honorary member of UPD with his own badge, identification card, and uniform. Graham suffers from a genetic disorder called Epidermolysis bullosa. A benefit run and walk is being held in his honor on Apr. 29, starting at 9:00 a.m. For more information, please visit the link. (City of Utica, NY Police Department via Facebook)
• Christine Scharf, an English teacher at RFA, was honored Friday, Mar. 24, at The Utica State Office Building for The Women of Distinction Ceremony. It was hosted by Assemblywoman Marianne Buttenschon of the 119th Assembly of New York. She was nominated by Devon Coon. (Rome City Schools via Twitter)

Thanks for following along and staying informed. I'll be back in your inbox tomorrow with another update!

— Nicole Fallon-Peek

About me: Nicole Fallon-Peek is a journalist and copywriter with a degree in Media, Culture and Communication from New York University. She has served as a freelance reporter, managing editor, copy editor, and editorial director for a variety of B2B news outlets. She currently co-owns and operates content creation agency Lightning Media Partners.