Today, Assemblywoman Donna Lupardo (D-Endwell) was joined by Mayor John Bertoni (D-Endicott) from the Village of Endicott and others for a press conference to announce the program for the Dedication of The Stage at Little Italy. The ceremony is scheduled for 2:00 p.m. on Saturday, May 29th. The festivities will include a full program of entertainment to celebrate the Italian heritage and history of Endicott. The event is free of charge and open to the public.

“It’s another development in an emerging neighborhood called Little Italy which preserves the local heritage of this area,” said Lupardo, a member of the New York Conference of Italian-American State Legislators. “This was a place at one time where people came together. We think that the community needs more of these.”

The stage, funded with a $250,000 grant secured by Lupardo, is located in George W. Johnson Park on Odell Avenue in Endicott. The park has undergone significant renovations recently, with improvements to the baseball fields and lighting.

“We’re looking forward to many people coming here to enjoy this place,” said Bertoni.

“Our goal is to bring the community back to a gathering,” said Jo Whitney of the village Entertainment Committee. “It’s such a historical spot for us.”

The village plans to use “The Stage at Little Italy” for performances and public gatherings. It will also be available to individuals and organizations to rent for various parties and functions.

For additional information on events or if you are interested in performing on the stage, please visit the village’s website at www.endicottny.com.