Justice & Public Safety
Making the case for change
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The reinvigorated Democratic Lawyers Committee is targeting the 2019 election in a bid to increase racial and gender diversity on the bench and push for criminal justice reform.
Government & Politics
The complexities of legalizing cannabis
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Gov. Andrew Cuomo says it’s time for New York to legalize the adult use of recreational marijuana. Making it happen, though, will require dealing with some thorny issues.
Guest Opinion
How a Dinolfo-Bello race might shape up
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If he challenges incumbent Republican Cheryl Dinolfo, will County Clerk Adam Bello succeed in becoming the first Democratic Monroe County executive in decades? Democratic insiders believe the math is on their side, but it’s only one factor.
Guest Opinion
The cost of gerrymandering
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In the past, state Senate redistricting in Upstate New York favored the Republican Party. Now, the loss of GOP control in the Senate will significantly reduce upstate’s influence.
Community
Driven to make a difference
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As a student in the Rochester city schools, Rachel Barnhart saw firsthand the “incredible waste of human potential” that resulted from poverty, crime and educational inequality. The journalist and political activist spoke with Beacon publisher Alex Zapesochny about journalism, politics and her motivation to hold government accountable. Listen to their conversation.
Guest Opinion
So, Albany, you think you deserve a raise?
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Since you and I soon will be shelling out for $130,000 annual legislative salaries, we should take a good look at New York lawmakers’ record. It’s not a pretty sight.
Guest Opinion
Divided, we will continue to fall
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Albany is controlled by New York City and Long Island interests, and with Senate control flipping to the Democrats in January, their dominance could increase. For upstate to counter the accumulation of downstate power, it must stand together.
Government & Politics
The downfall of Alain Kaloyeros
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Alain Kaloyeros was sentenced today to three and a half years in prison for his role in a bid rigging scheme. Lauded for his ability to develop alliances and create jobs, his plans fell short on several counts.
Government & Politics
Reflections from Bush 41’s chief speechwriter
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As the nation paid tribute to the 41st president, Alex Zapesochny spoke with Curt Smith, Bush’s chief speechwriter and author of “George H.W. Bush: Character at the Core,” about the man he knew. Listen to their conversation.
Government & Politics
The achievements of George H.W. Bush
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Robert Zapesochny’s family emigrated from the former Soviet Union. President George H.W. Bush’s policies helped many of his relatives and friends do the same. From the reunification of Germany to the Gulf War, Bush has had a far-reaching impact on history.