• GNY EP.130 | Syracuse Crunch: Jim Sarosy
    Dec 9 2025

    Inside the Syracuse Crunch: A Conversation with COO Jim Sarosy In this episode of Good News York, the host sits down with Jim Sarosy, the COO of the Syracuse Crunch hockey team. Sarosy discusses his journey from Long Island to becoming a significant figure in Central New York's hockey scene. He shares insights into the daily operations of managing a minor league team, the challenges and rewards of his role, and the unique relationship with their affiliate, the Tampa Bay Lightning. The conversation also covers the team's community impact, their innovative promotional nights, and the excitement surrounding big local developments like Micron. Sarosy also recounts the experiences and logistics behind hosting major events like the Morado Outdoor Classic and the Toyota Frozen Dome Classic. The episode ends with promises of future events and activities, embodying the dynamic and engaging nature of minor league sports. 00:00 Welcome to Good News York 00:23 Interview with Jim Sarosy, COO of Syracuse Crunch 01:23 Jim Sarosy's Journey to Syracuse Crunch 06:19 The Role and Responsibilities of a COO 09:57 Affiliations and Partnerships in Minor League Hockey 14:13 Hosting Major Events: Outdoor and Dome Classics 16:16 Facing the Challenges of Event Planning 17:25 Future Event Plans and Collaborations 18:33 Impact of Micron on the Community 19:30 Arena Renovations and Enhancements 21:40 Current Season Highlights 24:30 Promotional Nights and Community Engagement 26:52 Rivalries and Personal Anecdotes 28:13 Concluding Remarks and Final Thoughts

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    29 mins
  • GNY EP.129 | Feat. Nicole Watts
    Dec 4 2025

    Good News York: Community Advocacy with Nicole Watts In this episode of Good News York, host Matt Masur of Click Stream Studios welcomes Nicole Watts, founder of the nonprofit organization Hope Print. Nicole shares her compelling journey of community service, focusing on helping marginalized groups, especially refugees and new Americans. She discusses the organic growth of Hope Print from sharing meals with refugee families to creating various support programs. Nicole also talks about her recent election win and her transition to a political role aimed at fostering community development across Onondaga County. The episode highlights Nicole's dedication to making a positive impact, her love for diverse cultural experiences, and her exciting plans for further community engagement. 00:00 Introduction and Sponsor Shoutouts 01:10 Meet Nicole Watts: Founder of Hope Print 02:31 The Inspiration Behind Hope Print 04:51 Building Hope Print: From Meals to Community Programs 07:24 Adapting Through Seasons and Challenges 13:12 Nicole Watts' Political Journey 18:13 Exploring Onondaga County: Local Favorites 22:30 Conclusion and Contact Information

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    26 mins
  • GNY EP.128 | Feat. WWE Star Ilja Dragunov
    Dec 3 2025

    Exclusive Interview with WWE Superstar Ilja Dragunov: Passion, Persistence, and Wrestling In this episode of Good News York, host Mike Brindisi talks with WWE Superstar Ilja Dragunov. Ilja shares his inspiring story of moving from Russia to Germany as a child, the challenges he and his mother faced adapting to a new language and life, and how those experiences shaped his wrestling career. Dragunov discusses his wrestling influences, the physical demands of his profession, and the emotional depth he brings to his performances. He also touches on his signature wrestling moves, including the Constantine Special named after his son, and his approach to handling injuries and competition. The episode includes a segment where Brindisi and Dragunov discuss potential dream matches and the future of WWE, along with a fun rapid-fire round of questions. The show concludes with playful banter and a preview of WWE Live's holiday tour event in Syracuse on January 1, 2026. 00:00 Welcome to Good News York 00:37 Special Guest: WWE Superstar Ilja Dragunov 01:51 Ilja Dragunov's Early Life and Career Beginnings 05:09 The Journey to WWE Stardom 11:28 Injuries and Comebacks 14:01 Signature Moves and Inspirations 18:42 Future Aspirations and Dream Matches 21:45 The Changing Landscape of WWE 25:36 Upcoming WWE Live Holiday Tour 28:18 Rapid Fire Questions with Ilja Dragunov 30:56 Closing Remarks and Farewell

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    32 mins
  • GNY EP.127 | Lu Heart from Erin's Angels
    Dec 2 2025

    Spotlight on Erin's Angels: Combating Food Insecurity In this inaugural post-Thanksgiving episode of Good News York, host Mike Brindisi interviews Lindsay, a representative from Erin's Angels of CNY, a nonprofit dedicated to addressing food insecurity among children. Founded in 2017 and named after Erin Maxwell, a neglected child who tragically died, the organization provides food to children in the Phoenix Central School District and aims to expand its reach. Lindsay shares personal stories, the impact of the nonprofit's work, and upcoming fundraising campaigns, including a Giving Tuesday event and a special collaboration with a local distillery. 00:00 Welcome to Good News York 00:35 Special Guest Introduction 01:17 The Story Behind Erin's Angels 02:31 Erin's Angels: Mission and Impact 05:19 Campaigns and Fundraising Efforts 08:22 Community Involvement and Future Plans 11:05 Final Thoughts and Farewell

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    14 mins
  • GNY EP.126 | Feat. Jalal Zoghby from the Live Like Liam Foundation
    Nov 24 2025

    Honoring Liam's Legacy: Live Like Liam Foundation and Upcoming Run/Walk Event In this episode of Good News York, host Mike welcomes Jalal Zoghby, co-founder of Live Like Liam, a foundation established to honor the memory of Jalal's son, Liam. The episode delves into the emotional journey of Liam, who lived with DiGeorge Syndrome, and the inspirational impact he left behind with his positive mantra, 'find the good.' Jalal talks about the upcoming Live Like Liam Run/Walk event at Jamesville Dewitt High School on November 29th, aimed at raising funds for several charitable causes such as the Upstate Foundation and Ronald McDonald House. The episode also highlights the foundation’s other charitable activities, such as scholarships and endowments supporting families in need. The event is a community gathering that not only raises money but also helps to strengthen community bonds and continue Liam's legacy. 00:00 Welcome to Good News York 00:22 Introducing Special Guest: Jalal Zoghby 01:01 Liam's Inspiring Story 03:41 The Significance of Number 22 04:47 Live Like Liam Fundraiser Details 05:43 Supporting Families in Need 09:30 Liam's Legacy at Syracuse University 12:37 Founding Live Like Liam Organization 14:32 Details on DiGeorge Syndrome 17:04 Upcoming Events and How to Get Involved 21:26 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

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    23 mins
  • GNY EP.125 | 2026 Winter Fair Press Conference
    Nov 20 2025

    Exciting Announcements for Syracuse Winter Fair 2026 In this announcement video, the organizers of the Syracuse Winter Fair reveal exciting details and acknowledgments for the upcoming 2026 event. The Fair will be held at the New York State Fair's Expo Center and will feature rides, entertainment, food, and special activities focused on children. The Fair is dedicated to the late Van Robinson, an instrumental figure in its inception, and his contributions will be honored through the Pan-African Village. Various local dignitaries and community leaders express their support and excitement, including Syracuse Mayor Ben Walsh, State Senator Rachel May, and County Executive Ryan McMahon. New sponsors like Destiny USA and AmeriCU Credit Union are introduced, and the event will also feature unique attractions such as live reindeer, a healthcare village, and a winter campfire sing-along led by local Scouts. The Boys and Girls Clubs of Syracuse will benefit from fundraising efforts at the Fair. Organizers encourage community participation and highlight the event's economic and cultural benefits. 00:00 Opening Remarks and Acknowledgements 01:16 Dedication to Van Robinson 02:06 Linda Brown Robinson's Speech 06:11 State and Local Support 14:42 Partnership Announcements 24:25 Boys and Girls Clubs of Syracuse 30:55 Upcoming Winter Fair Highlights 33:20 Closing Remarks

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    34 mins
  • GNY EP.124 | The JUGG
    Nov 19 2025

    Good News York: Supporting Jesse Buckley with a Benefit Concert at The Jug In this special episode of Good News York, host Mike Brindisi discusses an upcoming benefit concert for Jesse Buckley, co-owner of The Jug, a local bar and music venue. Jesse has been diagnosed with stage three voice box cancer. The concert, organized by friends and fellow musicians, will feature 15 bands playing on November 22nd to help cover Jesse's medical expenses. Guests Ashley, Lauren, Amy, and Marcus share personal stories about Jesse, the importance of The Jug in the local music scene, and the community support they have received. The episode underscores the power of music and community in challenging times. 00:00 Welcome to Good News York 00:37 Introducing the Guests 00:42 The Jug and Benefit Concert 02:09 Jesse's Cancer Diagnosis 04:25 The Music Venue and Community 06:02 Organizing the Benefit Concert 10:07 Personal Stories and Memories 13:29 Raffles and Prizes 15:40 Venue's Unique Features 17:47 The Jug's Tight-Knit Community 18:14 Memorable Concert Moments 19:00 Heartfelt Thank Yous 21:34 The Importance of the Benefit 23:57 Rapid Fire Music Favorites 28:13 Final Thoughts and Farewells

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    31 mins
  • GNY EP.123 | Feat. Al-amin Muhammad - We Rise Above The Streets
    Nov 18 2025

    From Gang Leader to Community Hero: The Inspiring Journey of Ami Moham In this episode of Good News York, host Matt interviews Ami Moham, the executive director of We Rise Above the Streets Recovery Outreach. Ami shares his incredible life story, from being a gang leader in Chicago to becoming a community hero in Syracuse. He discusses his struggles, including homelessness and addiction, and how he turned his life around through the help of a self-sufficiency program and his conversion to Islam. Now, Ami's organization provides meals, clothing, and other necessities to the homeless and food-insecure in Syracuse. The episode highlights the upcoming events and ways people can support his mission, emphasizing the power of kindness and compassion. 00:00 Introduction and Recent Activities 00:56 Interview with Ami Moham: Background and Mission 02:36 Ami's Early Life and Family 04:35 Joining and Leading a Gang 06:52 Turning Point: Leaving the Gang Life 12:24 Struggles and Redemption 18:37 Meeting Influential People and Moving to Syracuse 19:19 Starting a Nonprofit in Syracuse 21:13 The Dunkin' Donuts Incident and Its Impact 23:46 Sandwich Saturday: Feeding the Community 28:46 Thanksgiving Dinner and Community Support 30:38 How to Help and Final Thoughts

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    34 mins