SNAPSHOT: Utica mural features NBA and WNBA stars

PARK MURAL — A new basketball mural featuring NBA and WNBA stars, such as Kobe Bryant and local star Brianna Kiesel, was painted near the basketball courts at Kemble Park in Utica by city codes director Marques Phillips. Each city councilperson was given money to upgrade areas in their respective districts and Councilman Venice Ervin decided to use a large portion on the park, with the mural being the first upgrade. Ervin talked with kids at the park to see who they would want on the wall and Phillips came up with the design and painted the image. New grills, seating and a performance stage is also planned for future additions to the park.