My closeness to the Irish community in Syracuse stems from my paternal roots, where “Craic,” kindness and love are firmly installed.

Kitty Hoynes has been a second home to family and friends, where every Friday, you will find us enjoying a comforting meal and jovial company for hours. You feel an immediate bond between regulars, new customers, community members of all descent, welcomed and accepted mattering not if their heritage includes the green, white and orange flag.

In times of uncertainty or divide, knowing that one Irish pub is a constant source of solace and cheer is something to truly smile and raise a pint to. Sláinte.

The shot clock originated in Syracuse and is seen by hundreds every day from its location in Armory Square, the heart of downtown. Syracuse University basketball is a lifestyle amongst all who call this city home, and it both unifies and sets us apart from other areas across the country. And we've all experienced nail-biting situations when the shot clock is ticking down and we have yet to score.

Thirty-five seconds for the NCAA and twenty-four for the NBA: the shot clock plays a significant role in the game. And we should be proud of it.