Kenny Dees: Recent Episodes
Power 620 (WHEN-AM)
came to Syracuse to attend Syracuse University and I never left. I LOVE SYRACUSE. Im originally from Albany, NY where I am the fifth of seven kids. Ive often been asked why Im still here in the Cuse? All I can say is that Ive grown very attached to the city and its people. Thats why I absolutely LOVE doing what Im doing where Im doing at. I get great satisfaction knowing that Power 620 is THE ONLY station CNY playing R&B. But, most of all I enjoy seeing the difference our station is making to the black community of Syracuse and CNY. As long as I have a voice on Power 620, the Syracuse community can rest assured that they will have a voice in our community.
He's an icon and one of the pioneers of Hip-Hop. I never thought he would spread the culture of Hip-Hop through classical music, but that's exactly what he's doing. Kurtis Blow is a major part of a production called a Hip-Hop Nutcracker. The show comes to the Mulroy Civic Center in Syracuse on Monday December 30th. I had a chance to talk to him about the show and his icon status as a Hip-Hop pioneer.
For as long as I can remember, Soft Spoken has been a staple of the Syracuse music scene. It wasn't until I spoke with one of the group's founders, Reggie Seigler, that I realized Soft spoken had been entertaining audiences in Central New York and beyond for 35 years. I had the chance to sit down with Reggie and talk about Soft Spoken's music, members, legacy, and so much more.
Hasan Stephens quit his job several years back and stepped out on faith to start the Good Life Foundation. Today, the foundation is making positive changes in the lives of young men who may be at risk in our community. I had a chance to talk to Hasan about the Good Life Foundation, it's mission, and how it came about.
I'm really proud to call this man my friend. Jus Mic stopped by the Power 620 studio to let me know about a project he is involved in to make sure as many people as possible have a great Thanksgiving dinner. I've worked with Jus for many years and one thing I know about him is that he wears his heart on his sleeve and he is quick to help those that he sees could use a helping hand. Listen to what Jus is doing and hopefully you can help out too.
New election procedures went into effect for the last election cycle. We spoke with Dustin Czarny, Onondaga County Democratic Elections Commissioner, about how the changes worked out.
I was truly shocked when I heard about the passing of John Witherspoon this morning. This man was one of the most sought after comedic actors in Hollywood. This is proven by the numerous movies and TV shows that he appeared in. He was working on a reboot of the Boondocks in which he did the voice of Granddad. He was also slated to reprise his role as Craig's father in a new production of the film Friday. I was lucky enough to meet him several years ago when he did a stand up gig at the Funny Bone in Destiny USA. He stopped by the Power 620 studio ahead of that appearance and here's our conversation.
Barbra F. Cooper is the visionary and founder of the We Got This Foundation which was created to give support to those suffering fro pancreatic cancer and research to find a cure. We spoke with Barbra along with Agnes Ogletree, foundation spokesperson, about the fundraiser Believe With Barbra taking place this weekend.
For the first time in history, New York State has the option of voting early. Early voting polling locations opened on Saturday October 26th and will remain open through November 3rd. For polling locations and times, visit www.ongov.net. I had the opportunity to speak with Onondaga County Election Commissioner Dustin Czarny about early voting and other changes you can expect when you go to the polls this year.
As Power Perspectives continues it's series on Domestic Violence Awareness during the month of October, we talk to Bryn Lovejoy-Grinnell, director of the Legal Project at Vera House. We discuss the legal ramifications of domestic and sexual violence and abuse.
Andre Douglas Jr. did an inspiring spoken word piece at the Vera House Annual Report a few weeks back. He performs it on Power Perspectives and gives us the powerful story behind it.
Listen as Joseph Dowell tells us the powerful journey that he is on as he tries to help men come to grips with questions of masculinity and how to navigate relationships with women. This is all a part of Power Perspectives partnership with Vera House to focus on domestic and sexual violence during the month of October.
Suhler King and Lawrence stop by Power 620 ahead of there performance at the Funny Bone in Destiny USA .
For the last 13 years, Cora Thomas has had an event to benefit various organizations and causes in our community through her Ms. Mary Philanthropy Day Foundation. This year she collaborates with Ken Jackson who is celebrating 30 years of publishing in Syracuse with The Constitution and Urban CNY. The Ms. Mary Philanthropy event this year honors Ken Jackson along with other minority men of media in Syracuse on Saturday September 21st at Syracuse Stage ahead of the play Thoughts of a Colored Man. I had a chance to talk to Cora about this along with other topics.
Over the last several weeks, Syracuse Stage has had the pleasure of debuting the play Thoughts of a Colored Man. This stage play, written by Keenan Scott II, gives a glimpse into feelings and views of several black men about their lives and our society. Keenan Scott II is an up and coming playwright who has a bright future. I had a chance to speak with him about the play and other things.
Ken Jackson has spent a great deal of his life reporting on in our community. That's why he is being honored for his 30 years of bringing us an unvarnished view of what's happening in our community through his local print paper, The Constitution, and online with Urban CNY.com. Ken has managed to do both of these publications as an independent publisher, certainly no small feat, in this day of media conglomerates. Listen to Ken as he reflects on his 30 years in the business.
Labor Day weekend is upon us and we are all looking forward to the last big holiday of the summer season. However, as with many holidays, the meaning is lost amid the long weekends, celebrations, family gatherings, etc. Labor Day was created by the labor movement and is dedicated to the social and economic achievements of American workers. I had a chance to talk with Mark Spadafore, President, Greater Syracuse Labor Council, AFL-CIO about the state of labor matters both nationally and locally.
There are 2 things that make Charles "C-Jack" Jackson a valuable treasure for the Syracuse community. One is that he documents all of the events that define who we are as community. Just as important, C-Jack is always striving to develop, mentor, and give a platform for up and coming talent. One of the ways he does this is through his C-Jack Run Talent Showcase that he presents each year at the Van Robinson Pan African Village at the NYS Fair. This year, will be the 13th year of the talent showcase and I had a chance to talk to him about it.
Kidney disease is an ailment that does not discriminate, however, African Americans suffer from Kidney disease far more than people realize. Dreamer Glen has teamed up with the National Kidney Foundation of CNY to present Summer Sizzle to raise money and bring awareness to kidney disease. This event takes place on Sunday August 11th at Sharkey's in Liverpool from noon to 6. I had a chance to talk to Dreamer about Summer Sizzle and kidney ailments.
JAMS is once again making its presence known at the NYS Fair. Last year they presented Zapp and the show was off the chain! This year they will present JAMS World Beat 2K19 and JAMS Funk Fest 2K19 featuring Lakeside and Raydio. I had a chance to speak with Reggie Seigler, one of the founders of JAMS, about the shows and more.
She's been doing the Mary Nelson Back To School BBQ for 17 years, with this year being her 18th. Mary Nelson continues to make sure that our children are equipped for the school year and the task of learning. She has persevered despite many personal challenges, but she overcomes these challenges because of one thing. FAITH.
Jazz will fill the air in Clinton Sq. this weekend as the Northeast Jazz and Wine Festival comes to town. I had a chance to speak with Larry Luttinger, executive director of CNY Jazz, about the various performers and activities throughout the weekend.
Rise Above Poverty is an organization here in Syracuse whose mission is to bring community awareness and engagement to end the socioeconomic issue of homelessness and poverty in the Syracuse City School District. I had a chance to talk to Troy Gray of Rise Above Poverty about the organization, its origins, its goals, etc.
Jubilee Homes of Syracuse has been serving the Syracuse community for 32 years. On Tuesday July 16th, they will be celebrating this accomplishment with their annual fundraiser at the Empire Room at the New York State Fairgrounds. I had a chance to talk to Walt Dixie, the executive director of Jubilee Homes, about the week of festivities, what services Jubilee Homes offers to the community, and his opinion on community issues.
Jubilee Homes of Syracuse has been serving the Syracuse community for 32 years. On Tuesday July 16th, they will be celebrating this accomplishment with their annual fundraiser at the Empire Room at the New York State Fairgrounds. I had a chance to talk to Walt Dixie, the executive director of Jubilee Homes, about the week of festivities, what services Jubilee Homes offers to the community, and his opinion on community issues.
Last week we lost someone who I regard as one of the pioneers of black radio in Syracuse. Jim Martin. Jim provided entertainment to the black community with his long running radio show The Black Experience. In an era when it was rare to here music by black artists, The Black Experience was devoted to bring this music to the Syracuse community. But, The Black Experience didn't stop there. Jim would also have guests who talked about issues that concern the community. His show was template for other black radio shows and stations to follow. Jim was also a great proponent of education spending 30 years on the faculty of Onondaga Community College. No matter if you knew him as a radio pioneer or a proponent of education, Jim Martin will be missed.
As the first primary of the year is upon us (6/25/19), I thought it would be a good time to review new NYS legislation involving voting. I spoke with Onondaga County Democratic Board of Elections Commissioner, Dustin Czarny about law changes, deadlines, and other topics surrounding NYS elections.
Keith Washington put on a stellar performance at the 2019 Juneteenth celebration. I had a chance to talk with him ahead of his Saturday night performance.
It's time once again for the Syracuse Juneteenth celebration! I had a chance to talk to Kevin Henry, president of the Juneteenth committee, about the 2019 Juneteenth celebration in Clinton Sq. on Saturday June 15th.
OnTech Charter High School is a new high school to the Syracuse area with a new and unique way of educating students. Ellen Egan, the school's founder, talks about how the school and its teaching techniques are different from traditional high schools and its first year in Syracuse.
One of the most momentous events of the 20th century was the invasion of Europe in 1944, also known as D-day. As I watched the coverage of the 75th anniversary of D-Day, I noticed that I didn't see any images or references of the brave African Americans who fought and made the ultimate sacrifice on that fateful day. I spoke with Dr. Rick Wright about this and he assured me that there were African Americans on the beaches of Normandy and they acted bravely.
Dionne Warwick is a voice I can remember listening to on the radio as I was getting dressed for school as a kid. As I got older and started on my radio career, her voice was one that I would play on the radio. So, you can imagine my excitement when I had the opportunity to speak with her about her newly released album "She's Back". Even before and after the recorded conversation, she was just a delight to talk to. I'm an even bigger fan of her now than I was before.
Jason Alexander of "Seinfeld" fame is in town to direct "The Last 5 Years", Jason Robert Brown’s emotionally powerful and intimate musical about two young New Yorkers who fall in and out of love. Jason Alexander stopped by the Power 620 studio to tell us about his work with the production.
Participation is sports is a great way to keep our youth engaged in positive activity and away from bad influences. Sam Dancil sees the value in this, and that's why he founded Youth S’portStock. He has worked tirelessly to make sure that our youth have the equipment they need to participate in the sport of their choice. He is having a fundraiser this Saturday to help fulfill requests for equipment. Find out all about it and Youth S’portStock.
M. Island has done his thing in the music industry for years and is well known for his writing, producing, and musical skills. He had stepped back from being an artist for a minute to concentrate on writing and producing for others as well as expanding his creative efforts, namely ME by Melvin. Lucky for us though, he has been called back as an artist to carry out a mission which begins today.
I just had the opportunity to chop it up with Donell Rawlings. He'll be appearing at the Funny Bone in Destiny USA tonight and tomorrow. If you need a laugh, do yourself a favor and check out his show this weekend.
Linda Brown Robinson has been a driving force behind the Syracuse/Onondaga chapter of the NAACP since its inception. Her hard work and community commitment continues to pay off as she tells us about the 40th anniversary of the Freedom Fund Gala.
Racism is a pervasive problem, not only in Syracuse, but throughout our society overall. Inter-Faith Works looks to end racism by having their annual Duck Race. You may ask, how can a duck race help end racism? Here's how.
The National Action Network's Syracuse Chapter has a lot on it's plate. I recently spoke with Twiggy Billue, president of the Syracuse chapter about what they are working on.
Nate Brown, the founder of Brownskin Band has been entertaining CNY and beyond for over 10 years. I had a chance to sit down with him and talk about the band and what they have coming up.
Ken Jackson, editor of Urban CNY, talks about his upcoming book and other topics on Power Perspectives.
Ken Jackson, editor and publisher of Urban CNY talks about the i-81 project on Power Perspectives.
The YWCA, Syracuse/Onondaga chapter will hold 2 events this week to promote diversity in our community. I had a chance to sit down with Norma Putman of the YWCA to talk about the Stand Against Racism Walk and the 21st Annual Day of Commitment.
Joe Driscoll is pulling off his political hat for a minute to put his musical hat back on. He is a last minute addition to the CNY Love Jam happening tomorrow night at the Landmark Theater and I had a chance to catch up with him on Power Perspectives.
I had a chance to talk with one of the headliners for the CNY Love Jam happening tomorrow night at the Landmark Theater. It's the S the L the I the M...Slim of 112.
The CNY Love Jam comes to the Landmark Theater on Thursday April 18th. It features Lil Mo and Slim of 112 as well as the Love Jam Showcase with some of Syracuse's finest talent. But, to get the show really hype, DJ Bella J will be on hand to get the party started and keep it going all night. I had chance to talk with Bella about the show and her career as a DJ.
Marissa Saunders has done outstanding work in our community and is reaching out to the African continent to try and help those trying to escape sexual abuse and oppression.
CNY Jazz does so much more in Central New York than providing quality entertainment. I had a conversation with Larry Luttinger, executive director of CNY Jazz, about what they have going on for Black History Month.
You may know him as a radio and club DJ, but Jus Mic knows a little something about how to get financing to buy a car. He can let you know what you need to do and what to look out for. Tax time is here so a lot of people will be looking. Before you go out and buy, check out these tips.
Gwen Webber-McCleod is a force of nature. Being a successful business was not enough for her. She felt the need to help others achieve the types of accomplishments that she has achieved and to find their own their own dreams and aspirations to fulfill. So it was with this in mind that she created the "You Can't Fail Because Your History Says You Can't Conference". Gwen says looking back at famous Black Women, you can see the faith, determination, and hard work that they put forward to succeed on an un-level playing field. This conference is way for women of color to come together to learn, network, and gain inspiration from each other as they pursue their goals. To find out more about the conference click here www.youcantfailinc.org. Here's our conversation about the You Can't Fail Conference.
The Syracuse is truly blessed to have someone who documents the positive events and accomplishments that happen in our community. Charles Jackson, better know as C-Jack is the man that you see at just about all events happening in our community. It's refreshing to know that someone is out there telling our story in a way that reflects our pride, culture, and accomplishments instead of constantly telling negative stories. C-Jack has taken up the task of documenting our community's history through video taping as a labor of love. However, his efforts have not gone unnoticed. C-Jack has been selected by the Distinguished Alumni Excellence Award given by The Office of Multicultural Affairs, SU Program Development Office, The Black History Month Committee and Caribbean Student Association. Congratulations to C-Jack for recognition of his labor of love.
Syeisha Byrd was named one of 2019's Unsung Heroes at the 34th Annual Martin Luther King Jr. Celebration at Syracuse University. Hear why she is so deserving of the award and our gratitude for upholding the principles of Dr.
Marissa Saunders was named one of 2019's Unsung Heroes at the 34th Annual Martin Luther King Jr. Celebration at Syracuse University. Hear why she is so deserving of the award and our gratitude for upholding the principles of Dr. King.
Everyone hopes that their new Year resolutions come to fruition. However, many times people give up before the month of February rolls around. But, there is a way to increase the odds that your resolution or goal is realized. Do you know what a vision board is? Karen Harrison, co-president of Women of P.E.A.R.L.S., tells how a vision board can be helpful in obtaining our goals.
We are all used hearing about the coaches of our favorite college teams going out to recruit the best student athletes. It just so happens that there are others involved in the process. My Professor, Dr. Rick Wright, shares how he helps out in student athlete recruitment.
There are many resources in our community to help high school students and their parents be successful during their academic careers. Some of these resources are on display at the Community Resource & Health Summit to be held at Henninger High School this Saturday from 10am to 2pm. I spoke with Mary Alice Smothers and Kim Goldman, community coordinators for Peaceful Schools at Henninger High School about this event.
The National Action Network, Syracuse Chapter, will present their Annual Membership Drive and Fundraiser on Saturday November 3rd form 6 to 10 at Strada Mia Restaurant. For the first time this year they will also present Triumph Awards to individuals who have made an impact on our community. I spoke with Twiggy Billue, NAN Syracuse Chapter President, about NAN, the work it's doing locally, and the Triumph award winners.
Power Perspectives continues it's look at domestic violence as we let you know about a new training program for alcohol serving establishments called Raise The Bar. We'll also hear about sexual harassment training in the workplace.
Steve Becker, president of Premier Promotions, has produced the Small Business Show for the last 20 years.. He talks about this year's Small Business Show SOHO Syracuse 2018 and what has made it so successful over the last 20 years.
EVERYBODY knows Charles Jackson aka/ C-Jack. He's the man you see at just about every event that happens in our community, video taping and achieving it all for posterity. We need to have a record of all the good things (and there are a lot) that happen in our community. I had a chance to talk to him ahead of his 12th Annual C-Jack Run Talent Showcase at the Van Robinson Pan African Village at the NYS Fair this Saturday at 2pm. Thanks for ALL you do, C-Jack!!
Zapp, the pride of Dayton, Ohio will be the featured performers at Funk Fest 2K 18 at the Experience Stage of the Great NYS Fair on September 1st. I had a chance to catch up with them and talk about "THE FUNK".
For 16 years, Mary Nelson has been making sure students in our community have the necessary tools to learn in the classroom. She has made it her mission to collect all types of school supplies, backpacks, clothing, services, and whatever else a student needs to be successful in school. Mary's deeds have not come without sacrifice and hardships, but yet she perseveres. This year will be her 17th year providing school supplies and more for our students. She spoke with me about what it takes to put on the annual Mary Nelson Youth Day BBQ and more.
When senseless violence strikes in our community, there is an organization that reaches out to those who are left to grieve the loss of a loved one. Mothers Against Gun Violence is an organization that helps those left behind navigate through their tragic situation, lends a helping hand, and provides a shoulder to cry on. The individuals in this organization have experienced the pain of losing a loved one to senseless violence and are willing to help those who find themselves in a similar situation. Lepa Jones is the president of Mothers Against Gun Violence. She spoke with me about the organization and the annual vigil that will take place on Sunday August 12th from 7 to 9 pm in Clinton Sq. in Syracuse.
Once again, the Jazz In The City Series is jam-packed with great talent, both local and national. Steve Becker is the long time producer of Jazz In The City and he tells us what to expect from this year's series.
JAMS - Joined Artist Musicians and Singers will once again sponsor the Funk Fest at the NYS Fair. This year the funk will flow with the Zapp Band headlining. Also performing will be Syracuse's own Blacklites, Missy Belgre, and Ignite plus more to be added later. The Funk Fest will be held at the Experience Stage of the NYS Fair on Saturday September 1st. I spoke with Reggie Seigler, President of JAMS about Funk Fest 2k18 and JAMS.
Denisha DeLee talks about the experience of raising a child with a life threatening illness.
Paula Miller, executive director of the William G. Pomeroy Foundation, talks about the importance of having African Americans join the bone marrow registry.
Rashawn Sullivan has had quite a journey to become the advocate for peace in our community that he is. He is living proof that redemption is possible if you desire it enough. Through his I Apologize 315 Foundation, he is using his experience with a violent situation to crusade against violence and promote peace in our community. Even though he has come a long way, he says the mission of spreading peace in our community is one he is committed to for the long haul. Here's our conversation.
Just about 20 years ago, I heard a voice on the Quincy Jones album, Back On The Block, that gave me goose bumps. Tamia. When she sang You Put a Move On My Heart, she truly did and that's why I'm a faithful fan to this day. So when I got a chance to talk to her, I told her I hope I didn't sound star struck. You be the judge. Here's my conversation with Tamia.
How can a Duck Race help to end racism? Gwen Sanders and Peter Willner of InterFaith Works explain how.
Linda Brown-Robinson, President of the Syracuse/Onondaga Chapter of the NAACP, talks about the 39th Annual Freedom Fund Dinner and what's happening with the NAACP locally.
Pastor Jaime, Calvin Corriders and Cal Corriders discuss the opportunities to progress financially.
Treat Mom to the best food trucks in town at the 3rd Annual Food Truck and Craft Beer Festival on Saturday May 12th from noon to 5 at the NYS Fairgrounds.
I talk with George Kilpatrick, coordinator for men's outreach at Vera House, about the conviction of "America's Dad" Bill Cosby, on sexual assault charges.
Kristen Thompson, the director Annual Syracuse Heart walk talks about why the Heart Walk is so important.
George Kilpatrick talks about the White Ribbon Campaign, the White Ribbon Campaign Walk and how it will benefit Vera House and the community at large.