Hi, my name is Anthony Grice. I'd like to introduce myself and explain a little about why I am running for City Council-at-large here in Newburgh. What you need to know about me is that I am always ready to listen and willing to serve. I was born and raised in Newburgh New York. Married to my wife of 16 years, we have three boys, and I am a deacon and usher in my church. My family has deep roots here.
My grandfather moved here from Virginia in the 1940s, opening a barbershop on South Johnston Street in the 1960s that was in operation until the 1990s. Growing up in Newburgh, I faced many of the struggles that some of our young people are facing today. I was living in a low income household, disengaged in school, lacked opportunities to participate in positive activities, and had few transportation options. However, with a supportive family, positive mentorship, and opportunities from organizations like the Boys and Girls Club, I was able to turn myself around. I was part of the first class of graduates from SUNY Orange’s Newburgh Campus, a proud graduate of Virginia Union University, Mt. St. Mary College, and SUNY New Paltz. I am also a member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity Incorporated.
I started working with children at a Latchkey Program in Newburgh when I was a young adult, and that has been my life work ever since. When I moved back to Newburgh, I worked at the Head Start program. I have worked in the Newburgh Enlarged City School District for the past 14 years, where I have done a little bit of everything. Some of my greatest achievements were the various grants that I helped secure. My current assignment as the Empire State Afterschool Program Facilitator allows me to partner with various agencies to provide mentoring, literacy skills enhancement, STEM, and Arts activities to all of our middle and high school students. Besides my job, I also volunteer at many events around the community.
Often you will see my three boys with me as I try to instill in them an attitude of service. I am asking you to elect me as your city council person for the City of Newburgh because we need someone who will do more listening, who understands what current residents are experiencing, while welcoming new residents to this amazing and diverse city we all love. I look forward not only to sharing my ideas for the city and how we can move forward together, but hearing from my neighbors and friends throughout the city. Its time for a fresh voice to represent our community and I look forward to serving in that capacity.
