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Local servicepersons to be recognized from May to November
Schenectady, NY, March 16, 2016 – The Downtown Schenectady Improvement Corporation (DSIC) and City of Schenectady are partnering again this year with local families and businesses to present the Hometown Heroes Banner Program. The banner program is designed to recognize active duty and veteran servicepersons from the City. Each sponsored banner will include an individual’s photo, name, and branch of service. Banners will be displayed on light poles along State Street and around City Hall in Downtown Schenectady from mid-May (just before Armed Forces Day) until mid-November (just after Veterans Day).
DSIC Executive Director Jim Salengo said, “The pride, emotions, and community support generated by our initial Hometown Heroes Banner Program last year exceeded all of our expectations. We look forward to honoring many more deserving Schenectady servicepersons in 2016.”
Schenectady Mayor Gary McCarthy said, “The Hometown Heroes program is a fantastic way to show public appreciation for our local servicepersons while adding visual interest to the streets of our vibrant downtown. This is also a perfect complement to downtown’s Veterans Park, which is a prominent State Street landmark.”
To qualify, a Hometown Hero must have been born in Schenectady, graduated from the Schenectady City School District, and/or be a current resident or city property owner. He or she must be serving on active duty in the United States Armed Forces or National Guard, OR be a veteran who has served in the United States Armed Forces or National Guard and who has been honorably discharged.
Banners may be sponsored by individuals, organizations, or businesses. Sponsors are responsible for the full cost of the banners, which are $300 each. Sponsorship applications may be submitted immediately and must be received by Friday, April 1 to be included in the initial round of banners for mid-May. After this date, sponsorships will continue to be accepted through August 31 for additional installation rounds. Due to a limited number of locations, all sponsorships will be approved on a first come, first served basis.
At the conclusion of the program, banners will be presented to sponsors along with an 8 x 10” print of the banner image suitable for framing.
A press conference to unveil the 2016 Hometown Heroes banners will take place in Downtown Schenectady on Thursday, May 19 at 11:00 a.m. Full details TBA.
For more information and to download a banner application, CLICK HERE.
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The Downtown Schenectady Improvement Corporation’s mission is to promote Downtown Schenectady as a premier location for commerce, recreation and living by enhancing, facilitating and supporting economic and cultural growth.
