John A. DeFrancisco

State Senator John A. DeFrancisco is pictured with Edward Z. Menkin, the recipient of the 2012 Distinguished Lawyer Award.  Senator DeFrancisco spoke about Menkin's exceptional experience, character, skill and commitment to the profession during the Onondaga County Bar Association's annual dinner, held on October 25, 2012. 

On October 23, 2012, State Senator John A. DeFrancisco attended the Catholic Charities Recognition Brunch for more than 500 Retired & Senior Volunteer Program (RSVP) volunteers, who serve about 70 non-profit organizations.  The event was held at Barbagallo's Restaurant.

State Senator John A. DeFrancisco is pictured with St. Camillus Senior Physical Therapist Warren Stearns (and family) during a ceremony to recognize Stearns for receiving the Employee of Distinction award from LeadingAge NY.  During the event, which was held at The Centers at St. Camillus on October 16, 2012, Senator DeFrancisco presented Mr. Stearns with a NYS Resolution that honors him for his accomplishments.

On October 15, 2012, State Senator John A. DeFrancisco participated in a panel discussion on the future of economic development programs for statewide manufacturers.  The annual event, which was hosted by the Manufacturers Association of Central New York, featured several panel discussions on various issues.  It was held at the Doubletree Hotel in East Syracuse.  

State Senator John A. DeFrancisco watches as the Taiwanese Flag is raised at Syracuse City Hall.  Senator DeFrancisco spoke during the flag raising ceremony, held on October 5, 2012.  Friday was also declared Republic of China Taiwan Community Recognition Day.

State Senator John A. DeFrancisco admires the new Elizabeth "Libba" Cotten monument, located at the corner of State and Castle Streets in Syracuse.  Senator DeFrancisco helped secure some state funding for the monument, which was unveiled and dedicated on October 2, 2012.  Libba Cotten was a legendary folk musician, who lived in Syracuse.  She wrote and performed the iconic song, "Freight Train."  Speakers at the dedication ceremony included the Senator, Syracuse Mayor Stephanie Miner, Peter Englot from Syracuse University, Francis Parks, Otis Jennings and Sculptor Sharon BuMann.

Several hundred senior citizens from throughout Central New York attended Senator John DeFrancisco's annual Senior Fair at the New York State Fairgrounds on September 27, 2012.  Nearly 90 exhibitors were stationed under one roof to provide seniors with valuable information on various programs and services.  Local health professionals also offered free health screenings.  Entertainment was provided by the Mickey Vendetti band.  Senator DeFrancisco would like to thank all of the vendors who made this year's Senior Fair a success and all of the seniors who attended.

State Senator John A. DeFrancisco was the guest speaker at a dinner hosted by the Camillus Chamber of Commerce on Tuesday, September 26, 2012.   Senator DeFrancisco is pictured with David and Liz Beebe and Daniel Willis aboard a boat on the Erie Canal near Sims Store at the Camillus Erie Canal Park.

Senator John A. DeFrancisco announced at Mundy Library on September 18, 2012, that he has secured $90,000 dollars in state funding for local libraries.  These funds will be awarded to individual libraries throughout Onondaga County in system-wide programs and mini-grants over the next two years.