Onondaga County Executive Mahoney Has Had Enough of Syracuse Mayor Miner The long brewing war of words between Syracuse Mayor, Stephanie A. Miner and Onondaga County Executive Joanie Mahoney reached a new level. Recently, the City of Syracuse abruptly moved out of space jointly shared by the combined Economic Development Offices of Syracuse and Onondaga County.
by Ken Jackson
Donald Trump Won the Presidency: Where do we go from here?
Immediately, charges and counter charges emerged regarding the reason for Syracuse’s abrupt exit from their combined offices at Washington Station. Mahoney continues, “When you do the financing for one of the hospitals or the universities, there’s a 1% fee that’s generated, which can be significant dollars. Since we had that, we agreed to pay 100% of the rent; in addition, we also spent a lot of those fees on other projects inside of the City of Syracuse. So, it was really beneficial to the City of Syracuse that we created this LDC. The County had an entity that could do development deals with the Eds and Meds, the city did not have one. That’s the basis I used to say, we’ll take county dollars and According to the County Executive, “State pay all of the rent on this beautiful space Law had changed for both SIDA and in this new building, because it’s good for OCIDA and they were not allowed to do all of us to come together.” When the development deals with not- for-profits City of Syracuse created its own comany more. So there was a void created for peting LDC, Onondaga County did not a lot of our biggest employers, like ESF, generate the fee’s it once did, therefore hospitals’, colleges, etc. So, we created Onondaga County felt the City of Syraan entity to fill the void.” cuse should share in paying rent for the jointly occupied space. In response to the new legal guidelines, Onondaga County created a Local DevelThe rent sharing cost was imposed beopment Corporation, which kept intact cause the City of Syracuse had created a the county’s ability to finance projects competing development agency, signalsuch as hospitals, which were no longer ing they were no longer going to collaboeligible. Without this action being taken rate. by Onondaga County, financing of our rapidly growing education and medical In a cordially worded letter dated Sepsectors of our economy would’ve ground tember 20th 2016 Onondaga County Exto a halt. Ms. Mahoney saw an opportunity to work with the city of Syracuse, “I approached Mayor Miner when the new Washington Station was being built. I approached her with the idea that would bring our Economic Development offices together; it had been talked about in the community for a long time. And coming into the Civic Center for economic development was not really putting our best foot forward to the business community.”
ecutive Joanie Mahoney attempted to “clear up some recent confusion”. There has been confusion regarding the relationship between the City of Syracuse Economic Development Office and The Onondaga Civic Development Corporation. In response to statements made by Syracuse City Hall that they were being, “evicted” the County Executive’s letter clearly states, “The Onondaga Civic Development Corporation has no intentions or plans to evict the City of Syracuse Economic Development Office from our colocated offices.” The letter ends by saying, “..again, we have no desire or interest in seeing this historic partnership end.” According to Mahoney, “The first thing that happened, the city went out on a public campaign to convince people that we were evicting them. The meeting minutes reflects the county’s request for rent” The County Executive also questions the Syracuse Mayor’s decision to criticize the Onondaga County development agency for failing to place provisions on agreement(s). These provisions would set goals (Continued on page 2)
NAACP Installs New Leadership Linda Brown-Robinson New President
Miner Appoints Derrek T. Thomas to Syracuse City Court
A Well Deserved Tribute to Quentin Hillsman & “Thank You” From a Proud Mom
The County Executive was stunned by the mayor’s October letter, given their history of working together to benefit the city and county. On October 18th Onondaga County Executive, Joanie Mahoney responded to the mayor.
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for local and minority employment and subcontracting opportunities. On June 17th, 2014 the Urban Task Force asked SIDA, the Syracuse Industrial Development Agency to include provisions to impose strict hiring rules as part of the land deal with Cor Development on the Inner Harbor Project. These rules would include, hiring local workers, especially from povertystricken areas of Syracuse. Despite the show of force by the public, exemptions on sales and mortgage recording tax was approved by SIDA in a 4-0 vote. The development agency members are appointed by Syracuse Mayor Stephanie A. Miner. The deal with COR Development, which included no local hiring directives, was approved by the Syracuse Industrial Development Agency over the objections of the Urban Task Force. Mahoney says, “She handed the harbor deal to her friends, while the urban jobs task force sat in the room demanding a community benefit agreement, and SIDA voted 4-0 and said here’s your tax break” On October 17th 2016 Onondaga County Executive Joanie Mahoney received a letter from Syracuse Mayor, Stephanie Miner in response to Ms. Mahoney’s September 20th letter.
“Your letter is disappointing but comes as no surprise. We saw your staff packing last week. Your unilateral dismantling of a co-located economic development office without even the courtesy of a telephone call puts your interests ahead of the people we serve. Our administrations are about more than politics and posturing and your actions belie that.” “I write today in response to your letter of September 20th regarding the City of Syracuse’s economic development office. Our decision to co-locate the Syracuse Economic Development Office with the office of the Onondaga Civic Development Corporation was based on the belief we shared a similar philosophy about what constitutes effective economic development. Though we can point to a number of successful collaborations over the years, it has become apparent our core views have diverged significantly…It is evident the county has decided to continue to pursue an ‘any development is good development’ strategy. Over and over again, this trickle-down model of economic development has left our community with developers being richly rewarded and out community reaping, at best questionable benefits. “
The letter ends with this notification, “It is our plan to have the County Economic Development office remain in place and our hope in 14 months or less that your successor will agree it’s in the best interest of the whole region for the city and county to partner again” When asked why she would write such a scathing letter to the Syracuse Mayor, Mahoney’s response was crisp and resolute. “I wrote this letter because I was personally offended at the notion that I didn’t care about people in the City of Syracuse. When that is not true, nor do any of the facts make it look like that’s true. The county is the one whose been doing all of the things that she pontificates about, but has not done.”
Mahoney Responds to Pay Raise Controversy
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The topic of pay raises has been a hot since the Onondaga County’s Comptroller, Bob Antonacci criticized the legislature, including the County Executive who he’s accused of approving raises which she had no authority to do so. A recent court decision has backed the County Executive’s pay raise, while siding with Comptroller, Antonacci regarding the legislature’s legal ability to vote themselves a raise, at the time the action occurred. The Onondaga County Executive strikes back at Mr. Antonacci’s claims of impropriety. “What Mr. Antonacci doesn’t explain to the public, is how he can maintain 80 clients in his accounting practice and devote his whole time to the duties of his office”.
office, except as provided in Section 311 hereof.” The aforementioned language outlines restrictions applicable to the County Executive.
A review of Onondaga County’s Charter, where details and responsibilities of our public officials are delineated, there’s language that applies to the Executive Branch of Onondaga County Government. “The County Executive shall devote his whole time to the duties of his office and shall hold no other public
The Department of Audit and Control (which includes the Comptroller), Department of Records and District Attorney have specific clauses in separate Articles of the Charter. Under Article V, Department of Audit and Control, “He shall devote his whole time to the duties of his office and shall hold no – other public office.” Therefore, it appears despite restrictions, the Onondaga County Comptroller maintains a robust business outside of his responsibilities as Comptroller. This legal battle waged by Bob Antonacci, and paid for by Onondaga County tax dollars has cost over $400,000.
Donald Trump Won the Presidency: Where do we go from here? Most people I know are suffering from, Post- Election Stress Syndrome a curable; yet debilitating condition experienced by those who were sure Hillary Clinton would become our next President. First sign of the condition appeared, as millions went to bed early on Election Night. The hope of making history, electing the first female President was derailed by Donald Trump’s late surge.
decision that caused the court to end to the discriminatory law. As the African American community recovers from the shock and awe of the Presidential Election, the question has become, ”where do we go from here?” , the answer perhaps lies in doing what worked best in our African-American history, planning, mobilization, and execution of a plan.
After the preliminary dust settled, the question on the minds of many as they engaged in Social Media is, “Where do we go from here? “ The eggs of the entire progressive movement were gathered in one basket and the electoral eggs were broken, one by one. Comedians stopped laughing, the jokes of Donald Trump, “Never becoming President of the United States” ceased. Finger pointing has begun. Was Clinton the right candidate? What happened to the African-American turnout? Where did this unexpected surge in Trump voters that went undetected by most pollsters? Could Bernie Sanders have beaten Trump?
But this is not, 1963 the youth of today have no patience and rightfully so, since we’ve failed to educate and protect them from racism and bigotry. The election of Barack Obama was supposed to be a reflection of a “post-racial America”. That was wishful thinking, the election of the nation’s first African-American President was met with disrespect from day one, when Republicans wished him failure and pledged to block anything he wanted to accomplish.
President Obama’s harshest critic used “dog whistle” language and other coded messages to win, exciting the electorate. Let’s face it; many never liked Barack On December 1st , 1955 Rosa Parks refusal to give her Obama as President simply because he’s Black. I immediately went on a Cable News blackout for the seat up to a white man. Rosa Parks’ action and subseWhere do we go from here? We educate voters about next two weeks. Why would I want to listen to any of quent arrest fueled calls for an economic boycott of the importance of down ballot voting. Emphasize the Montgomery Bus Line Company. them who, in a sense created this political character what the former Speaker of the House, Tipp O’Neil named Donald Trump? The boycott didn’t happen overnight, there were once famously stated, “All politics are local”. meetings and meetings about meetings, and actions One thing that has come out of this devastating deInstead of marching in a circle, we must take that feat is the realization with this loss, many issues tack- directed towards the bus company took planning, same energy and march to the Syracuse City School led by the Obama Administration can be rolled-back, leadership and most of all, followers. In March of 1955, 15 year old Claudette Colvin was arrested, forci- District’s Board Meetings, Onondaga County legislalike prices at a super Walmart. The Supreme Court tive sessions, carrying that same energy to Syracuse bly removed from the bus and placed in handcuffs. that will now most certainly be tipped to the right Common Council Meetings. Assemble at our local setting up major battles over Civil Rights, ReproducThe people of Montgomery, Alabama were trained representative government meetings. These meetings tive Rights, LGBT Rights, the list goes on and on. and ready for their non-violent assault on the Bus are open to the public; this is where decisions are Company’s Jim Crow policies. The boycott of the bus made. Across the nation there have been sporadic protests system began on December 5, 1955 and ended Deagainst the election of Donald Trump, the question When Black lives Matter held a demonstration in cember 20, 1956 over one year later! Preachers, remains, where do we go from here? Is walking in a circle shouting the answer? There are 350 methods of teachers, maids and day workers were united in their downtown Syracuse, businesses shuttered their doors, the Federal Building prompted by Homeland resolve, not to use the buses. The civil disobedience non-violent protests designed to bring about, caused the city to penalize Black Taxi drivers, as a re- Security, closed their onsite Day Care. The peaceful “creative tension” in an effort to have grievances demonstration took place without incident. But the sult at least 300 private vehicles were mobilized for heard. From the masses, there appears to be no paride sharing. The bus company was bought to its eco- business community’s response to a couple hundred tience for planning. protestors was visceral, a knee jerk reaction to a gathnomic knees while organizers fought this systemic This so-called boycott of Christmas is being hastily ering of residents calling for change. Imagine, if that racism in court. The Bus Boycott was one of many organized. The impact will be barely measurable since dark hours in African- American history, yet the boysame energy were focused a local legislative issue. those who have done quite well will spend heavily this cott ignited a flame that was viewed nation-wide. The If people participated in all facets of civic and political Christmas. Perhaps, focusing on a later date such as Montgomery bus boycott ended when the Supreme Black History Month would have a greater impact on Court ruled on it in December 1956. Claudette Colvin's decision making, imagine how quickly things change. the economy. legal case formed the core of Browder v. Gale, the That’s where we go from here.
President-Elect Donald Trump
Entire Freshman Class at East Syracuse Minoa High School Eligible to Attend OCC Tuition-Free Thanks to “OCC Advantage” College-Readiness and Scholarship Program East Syracuse Minoa High School will join “OCC Advantage,” a new and unique college-readiness and scholarship program. All students at ESM who meet attendance and grade point average (GPA) requirements and also complete community service will be eligible to attend OCC tuition-free. The GPA requirement is 2.0 which is the letter grade equivalent of a “C.” Once enrolled at OCC students will have two years to complete work toward an associate degree or certificate, preparing them for a career or transfer to a four-year institution. During their time on campus students must meet minimum grade point average requirements and perform community service. All students who are presently freshman at ESM are enrolled in the OCC Advantage program. As members of ESM’s class of 2020 they will be college-ready and able to attend OCC tuition-free should they choose to do so. During the 2016-17 academic year, full-time tuition at OCC is $2,285 per semester. The Solvay School District joined the OCC Advantage program earlier this month.
Miner Appoints Derrek T. Thomas to Syracuse City Court Miner Appoints Longtime City Hall Attorney to Soon to be Vacated City Court Judge Position Judge of Onondaga County Court. Mr. Thomas, 41, currently serves as the Director of Personnel and Labor Relations for the City of Syracuse.
way.”
Mr. Thomas currently serves as the Director of Personnel and Labor Relations for the City of Syracuse, a “Derrek Thomas is an excellent attorney who has pro- position to which he was appointed in 2013. As the vided exemplary service to the City of Syracuse in ad- Director, he served as the City’s chief negotiator for all ministrative hearings, negotiations, court proceedings organized labor contracts. Prior to that, he served as and arbitrations,” said Syracuse Mayor Stephanie A. an assistant corporation counsel handling labor Miner. “His professionalism and demeanor have ena- matters for the City of Syracuse beginning in 2011. Mr. bled him to serve the people of the City of Syracuse Thomas has worked as an attorney with Turning Stone and he will make a strong addition to the City Court Resort Casino LLC/Oneida Indian Nation LLC, the Macbench.” kenzie Hughes law firm and the New York State Bill SYRACUSE, N.Y. – Mayor Stephanie A. Miner anDrafting Commission. Thomas earned his undergradu“I am honored to be appointed by Mayor Miner to this nounced today her intention to appoint Derrek T. ate, MBA, and law degrees at SUNY Albany and Albany Thomas to an upcoming vacancy on the Syracuse City position and look forward to serving my community in Law School. Mr. Thomas and his wife live on the City’s this new way,” said Derrek T. Thomas. “After working Court. Supervising City Court Judge Stephen J. North Side with their children. Mr. Thomas currently Dougherty announced his intention to resign his seat for the City for 5 years on the issues facing our comserves on the boards of the Syracuse Model Neighboreffective December 31, 2016 to assume a position as a munity, I look forward to joining my new colleagues hood Facility and the Syracuse Housing Authority. on the bench to continue public service this new
NAACP Installs New Leadership Linda Brown-Robinson is Organizations New President On December 8, The Syracuse-Onondaga County NAACP conducted the installation ceremony for its 20017/2018 Branch Officers and Executive Committee members. The officers and board members were sworn in by Juanita Perez Williams, Esq. at Syracuse EOC, at 100 New Street, Syracuse, NY in the Libba Cotten Room. Joining them at the ceremony were other executive
board members. Also in attendance were Onondaga County Executive, Hon. Joanie Mahoney and former City of Syracuse Police Chief Dennis Duvall, NAACP members and well-wishers. Ms. Brown-Robinson will be releasing an agenda for the organization soon.
A Well Deserved Tribute to Quentin Hillsman & “Thank You” From a Proud Mom This tribute is from the heart, it’s up-close and personal. First, I would like to thank all of my friends, educators, Syracuse Community, and well-wishers for all of the cordial acts of kindness as we witness the hard work of my son, Q.
ments that he has made in his field. Well, naturally as a mother, I am proud. As parents, we planted the seed, nourished and watched it grow. Q’s aspirations were to become a basketball player. He played the game from the backyard up. Check out his historical records and accomplishments. Now that a new season is beginning, let’s fill those empty seats by supporting the Women’s Basketball Team, as well as others, as we encourage him in his endeavors as a leader.
Many words of kindness, positive chats, came my way. Newspaper articles were at my door for scrapbooks, and memoirs, expressing joy of his accomplish- Congratulations, Q!
Motown The Musical Comes to Syracuse May 16-21, 2017 “More Than a Broadway Show. A Celebration of Music That Transformed America!” – CBS Sunday Morning It began as one man's story… became everyone's music… and is now Broadway's musical. Motown The Musical is the true American dream story of Motown founder Berry Gordy’s journey from featherweight boxer to the heavyweight music mogul who launched the careers of Diana Ross, Michael Jackson, Smokey Robinson and many more. Motown shattered barriers, shaped our lives and made us all
Motown The Musical Landmark Theatre 362 S Salina St Syracuse, NY 13201
move to the same beat. Featuring classic songs such as “My Girl” and “Ain’t No Mountain High Enough,” experience the story behind the music in the recordbreaking smash hit Motown The Musical!
The Red House Arts Center Presents: Disney’s Beauty and the Beast The classic story tells of Belle, a young woman in a provincial town, and the Beast, who is really a young prince trapped under the spell of an enchantress. If the Beast can learn to love and be loved, the curse will The Red House Arts Center continues its 2016-17 main end and he will be transformed back into his former stage Season with a family favorite, Disney’s Beauty self. and the Beast which will run from December 1st But time is running out. If the Beast does not learn his through December 17th. Based on the Academy lesson soon, he and his household will be doomed for Award-winning animated feature, Disney’s all eternity. Beauty and the Beast enjoyed a 13-year run on Broadway, has played to over 35 million people worldwide Redhouse once again welcomes an eclectic cast which in 13 countries, and will now be inventively brought to includes some Redhouse favorites along with new up and coming young stars. Returning Redhouse’s Beauty life on the Redhouse stage! and the Beast runs from December 2nd through December 17th. Tickets are $30 or $25 for members. Disney’s Beauty and the Beast features all of the beloved songs from the film by Alan Menken and HowThe Red House Arts Center is located at 201 S. West ard Ashman along with new songs with lyrics by Tim St. in Syracuse, NY. Parking is available adjacent to Rice. Join Lumiere, Cogsworth, Mrs. Potts, and Chip, and across from the theater, as well as nearby in Arand “Be Our Guest” for this magical production! mory Square. For tickets, please call the Box Office at Redhouse is thrilled to partner with Hillside Family of (315) 362-2785 or visit www.theredhouse.org. Agencies for this production.
Show Times and Dates for Disney’s Beauty and the Beast Red House Arts Center main stage December 2- December 17th Dec 2 @ 8:00PM Dec 3 @ 2:00PM Dec 3 @ 8:00PM Dec 7 @ 7:00PM Dec 8 @ 7:00PM Dec 9 @ 8:00PM Dec 10 @ 2:00PM Dec 10 @ 8:00PM Dec 14 @ 7:00PM Dec 15 @ 7:00PM Dec 16 @ 8:00PM Dec 17 @ 2:00PM Dec 17 @ 8:00PM TICKETS: $30 / $25 for members BOX OFFICE: Call 315-362-2785 or visit www.theredhouse.org. Disney’s Beauty and the Beast is proudly sponsored by Crouse Physicians, Excellus BlueCross BlueShield and Destiny USA. Media sponsors are GalaxyCommunications and NewsChannel 9.
Review: “Mary Poppins” Soars over Syracuse Stage in
High-Flying Holiday Production The recently opened Syracuse Stage performance of Mary Poppins has a cast that soars higher than her signature umbrella. In this era of embracing popular culture people are quick to compare this stage play to the movie. First, eliminate everything you know about the movie. The stage play is different. The story is about more than a nanny with magical powers who happens to have some odd friends. It’s about family and relationships and poverty of a post-depression England. The Syracuse Stage production is so well done; it’s hard to select one standout actor.
more productions. The young actor is mesmerizing; as he can snatch a moment on stage, by manipulating a gesture or acting silently, using only his facial expressions. The production took off in the second act, and for those who like “hoofers”, the dance numbers are excellently choreographed by Anthony Salatino. Just when you thought you’d seen it all in a dance, Salatino’s choreography takes the production of the dance to another level. The show’s choreography leaves the audience gasping for more. Syracuse Stage’s production of Mary Poppins is truly The entire cast lifted this production as if it were tetha holiday treat that shouldn’t be missed. ered to a Mary Poppins held, flying umbrella.
Another lead character that is pivotal to the productions success is, Jonathan Burke as Bert, brings his best However, the production of Mary Poppins can’t fly cockney accent to the role that he without a talented performer who transforms herself inhabits. A surprising standout is into the nanny, a role made famous by Julie Andrews. local actor, Luke Lorenzo as Uls MiEmily Brockway as Mary Poppins gives you a mesmerchael. A sixth grader at Blessed Sacraizing performance as she sings dances and even flies ment School in Syracuse, Lorenzo was above the stage. She’s posture perfect and her voice so effective with his acting you have a is a marvel as she effortlessly plays the lead character. feeling you’re going to see this kid in
3 Keys to Combat Proliferating Pessimism among Americans Expert strategies for helping people to shift their focus away from their problems and onto a more positive, productive and rewarding life by Dr. Jeffery Chapman It is sad but true: Americans are becoming overwhelmingly pessimistic. And, there is no shortage of studies to prove it. Reported data shows that that a paltry six percent of Americans think the world is getting better, while yet more reveals that a staggering two-thirds of Americans think the country is moving in the wrong direction. All of this growing negativity is understandably taking a toll on America, with escalating pessimism, stress and depression looming large across the U.S. In fact, the most recent American Psychological Association's Stress in America survey cites that over a third of adults are experiencing increased stress over the previous year while, this year alone, the National Center for Health Statistics shows suicide rates in America at a 30-year high.
The first truth to productive living is to “think it.” It is widely believed that one’s mind has a powerful influence on the physical body—a belief that can be traced all the way back to the fourth century with Hippocrates. Today there is scientific data backing up the influence of the mind upon the body, which mainstream medicine leverages in a variety of treatments from biofeedback and cognitive behavioral therapy to simple relaxation techniques.
tive, desirable certainties in your life—about yourself and the world that impacts you—in order to manifest more.
The third truth to realizing desired productivity is to “live it.” The most powerful weapon we have to transform our mind, and our life, is to not just think and speak these truths, but also to live in ways that will serve a cause and effect to actualize and make these truths a reality. This is very much the principle at work Yet, one need not be involved in medicine to use this with the scientifically-validated Law of Attraction. connection quite effectively every day. This timeless Want to lose 100 pounds in 6 months? Go to the gym truth of thinking a productive life into being is applica- today. Want a raise at work? Invite your boss to ble to most anyone. Here’s how it works: In order to lunch this week and get to know him or her on a perunlock inner greatness at work, at home, in social sonal level and share your aspirations. Take some circles and with other aspects of your life, you have to form of “live it” action every day toward your goals, maintain a transformational, positivity-oriented mind- no matter how large or small. set that is open to change and adaptation. This is beIf you find yourself in the grip of pessimism, stress or cause your own mind has the greatest propensity to depression, turning the tide and living a positive, proeither enrich your personal growth or limit it. It has ductive and rewarding life can seem nearly impossiEven those the highest potential to either advance your life or ble. However, all it takes is one positive thought to seemingly dedidestroy it. Therefore either you tame this tool or realget the ball rolling in the right direction and counter cated to making ize opportunity loss at best or suffer grave consethe pessimism. That singular thought can then bepositive changes quences at worst. come spoken word relative to what you want to see in their lives The second timeless truth to better positive, produc- happen in your life. But, don’t stop there or your systematically fail. For instance, while many lean on tive living is to “speak it.” Begin by identifying the lies goals may never be realized. Your thoughts and words New Year's resolutions in a heartfelt attempt to proand undermining thoughts that play over and over should lead to action on your part, thereby creating a mote positive life changes, the chances of realizing inside your head and then replace them with positive cycle of “think it, speak it, live it.” This simple yet those successes are slim. Reports indicate that uptruths about yourself, such as a list of your favorable powerful three-prong technique can truly transport wards 25 percent of people who make New Year's you from mere wishful thinking to tangible transition. resolutions will already have failed at keeping them a attributes, accomplishments, and so on. Go a step mere seven days into January. As for those who man- further and verbally speak those truths aloud. This practice of making audible affirmations has a power- When you apply these expert tactics for living life in a age to outlast the week and stick it out the entire ful, positive effect that has been recently scientifically way that promotes positive progression, you will sureyear? That number is a dismal 8 percent. ly be well on your way to enhanced personal and prodocumented by several university studies. Research fessional success—no futile resolutions required. from Carnegie Mellon University, for instance, has While the statistics themselves may be depressing, there is certainly hope for those dedicated to making substantiated that self-affirmation “can protect Empowerment pundit Dr. Jeffery Chapman, Sr., is a favorable changes. When put into practice, there are against the damaging effects of stress on problemmotivational speaker and author of the upcoming solving performance” and that it “boosts stressed three timeless truths that can help people take their book, “Timeless Truths: Three Keys to Unlock Your individuals' problem-solving abilities.” During this focus off their problems in order to lead more posiInner Greatness.” He may be reached online at “speak it” exercise, there is no need for rationalizative, productive lives. www.drjefferychapman.org. tion. It is a simple act of giving language to the posi-
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2017 Tax Preparer Registration Application Now Available at www.tax.ny.gov New York is at the forefront of consumer protection by requiring tax preparers to meet specific professional standards.
• take four hours of annual continuing education; and • if they have less than three years of experience preparing New York State tax returns, complete a 16hour basic tax course.
The New York State Department of Taxation and Finance today announced that the 2017 tax preparer registration application is now available at its website, www.tax.ny.gov. More than 38,000 tax preparers in New York State must renew their registration if they plan on completing and filing New York State personal income tax returns next year. The requirement to register, launched by Governor Cuomo in 2014, was part of a comprehensive set of new rules aimed at reducing errors and omissions on tax returns, combating fraud, and increasing the level of competence and ethics among preparers. New York is one of only four states in the nation that requires tax preparers to meet specific professional standards.
Violation of these standards could result in a range of disciplinary actions, from remedial education to suspension or cancellation of a preparer’s registration. Each year, the Tax Department processes more than 10 million individual tax returns, with approximately 70% of them completed and filed by paid tax preparers. Tax preparers can register for the first time or renew their registration using the Tax Department’s online application. confidence of New Yorkers who hire paid tax preparers.” In addition to the 2017 registration, most individuals who are paid to prepare at least one New York State tax return in a year must:
“Our top priority is protecting consumers,” said Acting • be at least 18 years old and a high school graduate Commissioner of Taxation and Finance Nonie Manion. (or possess the equivalent of a high school degree); “This effort to reduce errors and detect potential fraud helps strengthen the industry and increases the • meet applicable IRS requirements;
Before hiring a tax preparer, New Yorkers are encouraged to verify that the preparer is registered. They can do that online through Open Data. Attorneys, certified public accountants, public accountants and enrolled agents are exempt from the regulations, but are required to meet specific professional standards established by their licensing agencies. Learn more on who must register as a tax preparer at www.tax.ny.gov.
Governor Cuomo Calls on New Yorkers to Unite In the Fight for Tolerance and Justice guests. We have the great Congressman – the Lion of Lenox Avenue, Charles Rangel. We have the Lioness for justice – Councilwoman Inez Dickens is here with us. We have Alma Rangel who has been such a great citizen and great supporter for so many years. And we have Mrs. Portia Paterson who is the wife of a distinguished – what a distinguished public servant, Basil Paterson, and she is the mother of David Paterson.
This morning, Governor Andrew M. Cuomo called on New Yorkers to unite in the fight for tolerance and justice while at Abyssinian Baptist Church in Harlem. The Governor's remarks as delivered are below; video I come to you this morning with a heavy heart. The and photos of the event, and additional information ugly political discourse of the election did not end on on the Governor's announcements will follow. Election Day, in many ways it has gotten worse, into a social crisis that now challenges our identity as a state Thank you, thank you very much. It is an honor to be and as a nation and our people. here this morning. I would have made a couple of comments on the Reverend’s introduction, but I don’t It goes beyond politics: it questions our American want any trouble with the Reverend, especially here, character – who we are and what we believe. especially now. I don’t remember anyone resummoning him to Washington. I don’t think anyone The answers by some, makes me soul sick for the summons Reverend Butts anywhere. I think he has America that I know and I love. one boss and he’s not in this place and he'll meet him sometime in the future. Now I am not alone. There are many who are soul sick for their America. There are young and old who feel Reverend Butts is a tremendous asset for this state. alienated, disrespected and confused by what they You know his great contribution as a pastor. You hear. know he is also the President of SUNY Westbury. He is a community activist, a community developer but I We can now begin to understand what the Old Testathink he has even more to offer this state and this ment meant, when it said, “They that sow the wind, community. shall reap the whirlwind.” It’s my honor to be here at the Great Abyssinian Baptist Church and to be joined by some distinguished
We are in a whirlwind of hate and division all across this country. Black freshmen at the University of
Pennsylvania found messages on their phones including images of lynchings and racial slurs. The day after the election someone painted racist messages on walls in Durham, North Carolina: “Black lives don’t matter, and neither do your votes.” During the week after the election, the Southern Poverty Law Center reported that there were 437 incidents of intimidation targeting blacks and people of color, as well as Muslims, immigrants, women and members of the LGBT community. I wish I could say our beautiful state of New York was immune from this poison but it’s not. Fliers promoting the KKK were found on parked cars in Patchogue, Long Island. A swastika was discovered on the B Train in Manhattan. In Wellsville, outside of Buffalo, someone painted a swastika surrounded by the words "Make America White Again." The fact is this – if you sow fear, you reap hysteria. If you sow divisiveness, you reap anarchy and we are seeing that today. We have seen this act before. The race massacre in Tulsa in 1921. The Palmer Raids and mass deportation of immigrants in the Twenties. The internment of Japanese citizens during World War II. The Red Scare of the 1950s. This election season vented and fostered people’s anger and no doubt that the anger is real and it comes with good cause. From an economy that works for the few at the expense of the many. For 30 years we have been watching income inequality get worse and worse and worse and a middle class that is shrinking into poverty. There has been technological change that has eliminated millions of jobs and destroyed lives, families and entire communities. You go to upstate New York and you see towns that had a (Continued on page 11)
Farm Fresh Mobile Markets December Schedule The Farm Fresh Mobile Market brings fresh produce to locations where people live, work, and play! The goal of the FFMM is to increase access to healthy foods in high need area. The Farm Fresh Mobile Market offers healthy vegetables and fruits as well as education, samples, and food demonstrations at select sites.
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factory and that factory moved away and that town has been left without an economy since then. Compounding all of this, is the feeling that the government. The last refuge of individual protection – the government –is now responsive to powerful interests that make large donations – that our government is now their government, and that we are not one of them.
deport immigrants then the only ones left will be the Iroquois, the Sioux and the Cherokee and the Apache. Otherwise remember, we are all visitors to this great land.
New York’s message is a message of tolerance, brotherhood and unity. It is not a political message. It is not a Democratic or Republican message. It is not liberal or conservative; it is the Golden Rule that is the bedrock for faith for people around the world. Matthew in Ch. 22:36-40 tells us, “Teacher, which is the greatest commandment in the law? Jesus replied: Love the This fear and this anger – misdirected – seeks an ene- Lord your God with all your heart and with all your my– it seeks a target and that target has become peo- soul and with all your mind.” ple who we see as different than ourselves – people who look different, who have a different skin color, a This is the first and the greatest commandment. And different religion, a different sexuality and they have the second is like it, “Love your neighbor as yourself.” become a target for this anger All the law and prophets hang on these two comBut demonizing our differences injects a social poison mandments. In the Old Testament it was Leviticus into the fabric of our nation. Especially this country, who said, “Love thy neighbor as thyself.” because this is a nation built on differences. This country is not founded on one race, or once religion, This belief in loving thy neighbor, the Golden Rule, is or one custom. This nation is founded on one ideal repeated throughout the Koran by the prophet Muand one compact. And that compact has been agreed hammad, who said, “None of you has faith until he to by many races and cultures. The demonization of loves for his brother what he loves for himself." differences erodes our democracy at its core and attacks the foundation of our nation. Long before the East and West met, Confucius wrote in 500 B.C., “Never impose on others what you would New York State, in many ways, embodies the Amerinot choose for yourself.” can ideal. We are the laboratory of the American experiment in democracy. New York is the welcome mat Even the Sanskrit traditions of ancient India taught us, to the world. Ellis Island is where generations signed “Treat others as you would treat yourself.” the American compact. The Statue of Liberty stands in our harbor and New Yorkers hold the torch, and toIt is a timeless truth and these are the words that we day, that torch must be held higher and that torch need to take to heart at these dark times. These are must shine brighter than ever before. the words that must guide us because they will heal us and bring us together. But it is not a time for words New York has a special responsibility. We have always alone; it is also a time for action. And the action will been the progressive capital of this country. We have start in New York. always been the social conscience. We know what it is to stand up and remind this country what it means to As Martin Luther King said in his I Have a Dream be an American. That our core American belief is that speech, “This is no time to engage in the luxury of we are one nation, under God, indivisible, where cooling off." there is liberty and justice for all. We have to act and we have to act now. These words, That what makes this country special on the globe is this golden rule, these instructions, this mandate of that we afford religious freedom to all individuals and unity and brotherhood, are not just from the Bible. It we discriminate against none. The nation's motto is "E is also the law of the land. Hate crimes are not just pluribus unum" – out of many, one. That is the Ameri- sins, they are illegal. At this time of darkness, this can rule, period. And therefore if you love this county, state will bring light to illuminate the ignorance. To if you are an American, then you must act like one violate them is not just a sin. And New York will not and these acts of division are the exact opposite of allow the law to be violated. what America stands for. We will enforce the law to the fullest extent. I am orThe divisiveness must stop and New Yorkers will not dering the State Police to put together a special unit be bystanders to injustice. That is not the New York to address the explosion of hate crimes in our state. way. We will fight sexism and racism and bigotry With trained professionals we will investigate every wherever we see it. incident and prosecute the perpetrator to the fullest extent of the law. We will stand up for the rights of immigrants because we believe our diversity is a strength, not a weakness. The laws of New York will protect every citizen and every child. I will propose this January to expand the If there is a move to deport immigrants then I say Human Rights Law, to specifically protect every child start with me. I am a son of immigrants. Son of Mario in every school, both public and private. Cuomo, who is the son of Andrea Cuomo, a poor, Italian immigrant who came to this country without a We will make sure every young person knows the law job, without money, or resources and he was here of our land, and I will be sending a letter to every colonly for the promise of America. lege student explaining their rights and responsibilities as citizens of New York. If we deport immigrants then I ask, "Who is safe and who will be left?" Because we are all immigrants. If we New York will also ensure that every person has legal
protections, whether they can afford it or not. We will be putting together a public-private legal defense fund to provide immigrants who can’t afford their own defense, the legal assistance they need because in New York, we believe in justice for all. At the same time, New York will work to address the underlying fear that is generating this in the first place. We must address the pervasive economic insecurity. We have to provide good jobs that pay a decent wage and restore the promise of economic mobility so people don’t feel they are stuck in place and that they have no future. We have to train displaced workers. People feel they are not getting their fair piece of the American pie – and they are not. But the answer is not to fight your neighbor for their piece of the pie – not to fight for the scraps left by the rich – the answer is to grow the economic pie for all. New York still knows what America is supposed to be. And we must shout it from the mountain tops. We must provide guidance to this nation We must stand up and say, "You spread fear and we will spread love." We will stand up and say, "You try pull us apart and we will stand stronger for each other." We will stand up and say, "Yes we are black, white and brown – but we are one." We will stand up and say, "We are gay and straight – but we are one as a community." We will stand up and say, "Yes we are Christian, Muslim and Jews – but we are one." We will say, "Yes we are individuals but we are also one community. One family." To stand up and say, "Yes we have our differences but our commonalities are stronger and there is a cord that connects each and every one of us. The cord may be invisible, but it is very real nonetheless. And the cord connects you to you and you to you and you to you. And that cord weaves a fabric – the fabric of community – and we will stand up and say, when one of us is raised that fabric of community raises us all and one of us is lowered, we are all lowered." We are here to share benefits and burdens. We are here to grow with one another and invest in one another. That is the way this made New York the greatest state in the country. We took different religions, different cultures and we said we will operate as a family. We don’t care the color of your skin or how much money is in your pocket. If you accept the American idea the New York way, we will work with you and grow with you. That is the American Dream that will grow this nation. The separation is a poison and it has to stop and it has to stop now and New York is going to lead the way in showing the way for positive growth. We remember what made this nation the greatest nation on this earth. We are going to keep that dream alive and we are going to fight to keep that dream alive and work to make it a reality for all of us.
Onondaga County Outreach Events Designed to Help with Home Heating Costs for Seniors Monday, December 12, 2016 OASIS, 6333 Route 298, East Syracuse
9:30-12:30
Tuesday, December 13, 2016 Brewerton Public Library, 5440 Bennett St., Brewerton
10:00-Noon
Magnarelli Center (formerly McChesney), 2300 Grant Blvd., Syracuse
10:30-1:30
Pete Headd, Executive Director, Onondaga County Office for Aging, has announced a series of outreach events designed to assist seniors in Onondaga County with applying for the Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP.) HEAP provides limited subsidies for heating and utility costs.
Bishop Ludden Apartments, 815 Fay Rd., Syracuse Cicero Public Library, 8686 Knowledge Lane, Cicero
Noon-3:00 1:00-4:00
Wednesday, December 14, 2016 The Meadows at Radisson, 3490 Meadowbriar Lane, Baldwinsville
10:00-Noon
Betts Library, 4862 S. Salina St., Syracuse
1:00-3:00
Salina Free Library, 101 Belmont St., Mattydale
1:00-3:00
According to Pete Headd, “Central New York winters are always cold, no matter how much snow we end up getting. The Onondaga County Office for Aging will be visiting community centers, libraries and various other sites to reach seniors who need help paying their energy bills.
Beauchamp Library, 2111 South Salina St., Syracuse
1:30-4:30
HEAP assistance is available on a first come, first served, basis so applications should be filed soon.” The Office for Aging will be holding these community outreach sessions to help Onondaga County seniors age 60 or older and income eligible, apply for HEAP benefits. Appointments are not needed. Seniors who are unable to attend can call (315) 4352362 and request that an application be mailed. Assistance will be offered at the following locations, dates and times. More outreach sessions are planned for 2017.
Thursday, December 15, 2016 Conifer Village Community Room, 81 Downer St., Baldwinsville
9:00-11:00
Skaneateles Library, 49 East Genesee St., Skaneateles
10:30-12:30
Cicero Public Library, 8686 Knowledge Lane, Cicero
1:00-4:00
St. Mark’s Lutheran Church Comm. Room, 2840 Cold Springs Rd., B’ville
4:00-6:30
Friday, December 16, 2016 The Newland Center, 1443 E. Genesee St., Syracuse
9:00-Noon
Manlius Public Library, 1 Arkie Albanese Ave., Manlius
10:00-1:00
Minoa Library, 242 N. Main Street, Minoa
10:00-1:00
Cecile Community Center, 174 W. Seneca Turnpike, Syracuse
1:00-3:00
Mundy Library, 1204 S. Geddes St., Syracuse
1:30-4:30
Monday, December 19, 2016 Baldwinsville Library, 33 East Genesee St., Baldwinsville
10:00-Noon
White Branch Library, 763 Butternut St., Syracuse
11:00-2:00
Tuesday, December 20, 2016 Westcott Community Center, 826 Euclid Ave., Syracuse
9:30-11:00
Liverpool Library, 310 Tulip St., Liverpool
10:00-12:30
Jordan Bramley Library, 15 Mechanic Street, Jordan
Noon-2:00
Magnarelli Center (formerly McChesney), 2300 Grant Blvd., Syracuse
1:00-3:00
Brewerton Public Library, 5440 Bennett St., Brewerton
1:30-3:30
Wednesday, December 21, 2016 O’Brien Rd. Apartments, 7170 O’Brien Rd., Syracuse
9:30-11:30
Salvation Army Store, 2433 Erie Blvd. East, Syracuse
11:00-2:00