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December 2018
Southside "Southern Compass" TNT 5-Year Plan is Unveiled: Neighborhood Meets in Wake of Crouse/Sears Controversy
“Jim Crow” and Syracuse Print Media: African-American Writers Matter
By Ken Jackson
APD Solutions Review Neighborhoods 5 - Year Plan Southern Compass, Shifting the Narrative to Growth on the Southside.
Syracuse City School District Celebrates 22nd Annual Wladis Hat & Glove Giveaway
Pastors Supporting Facility No-Show at Town Hall Meeting with Residents The November 17th meeting at Danforth School was originally called to bring attention to the Crouse/Sears project, since the announcement was made to the general public, there’s been a sense of foreboding in the air, reminiscent of past projects. Some said it’s inevitable, the Crouse/Sears Project will move forward. Nothing could have been further from the truth. The plan to transform the former Sears department store, into a facility to provide drug addiction treatment services has been cancelled. Based on reports from the community
that the treatment facility was not wanted in that location, there was acknowledgement from Crouse Health that they had not gained support of the Southside community.
Therefore, Crouse Health decided to review other locations. After spending a brief time reviewing what had transpired regarding Crouse Health, the meeting focused on what the Southside TNT had been working on over the last year. Syracuse Common Councilor-atLarge, Khalid Bey provided an update and answered questions. Bey’s assessment of the current situation included information detailing what’s been happening bringing people up to date. Emphasis was placed on community participation (Continued on page 2)
National Action Network Hosts a Community Discussion about "the State of Our Schools" on Saturday, December 15th
T’was the Nightmare after Christmas: Holiday Debt 2018
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being vital as it determines a neighborhoods course of action. Community Cafe, just one of many ideas coming to fruition on the Southside.[/caption] Model Neighborhood Executive Director, Angela Wright presented, A New Model, A New Way; outlining the neighborhoods concerns and where do we go from here. Syracuse Model Neighborhood has provided affordable rental housing for decades. New housing and retail storefronts have been built along the once desolate corridor; residents have participated in meetings, giving stakeholders in the immediate area a voice in determining the future of this maligned section of Syracuse. The event ended with a full throated discussion about the future. Vaughn Irons, CEO of APD Solutions provided a presentation complete with visuals, providing details. A café with outdoor eating space is planned along with other ideas being introduced to the community by a company led by a man who was raised in Syracuse and has gone on to lead development projects in the Atlanta area and beyond. Given Irons’ knowledge of the area his company appears to be an excellent choice given the neighborhoods response to the Southside neighborhood 5 year plan entitled, Southern Compass. The Plan is a 144 page document that includes voluminous information on the Southside. Statistics including land use, economic development, and income levels; a true overview of their concerns and challenges, along with an accounting of vast assets each Syracuse community embodies. “Southern Compass” The Five – Year
Plan ends with a list of 15 recommendations along with detailed “Tactical Actions” and expected measured outcomes. This plan becomes a catalyst for applying for state, federal and foundation funding in an effort to secure a solid future for South Side residents, businesses and assorted stakeholders. To view the entire plan,"Click" on the following link "Southern Compass" Southside TNT Five Year Plan by APD Solutions. To access the full plan - you must enter your email address and register. A major neighborhood milestone has been crossed with APD Solutions’ completion and presentation of the Southside 5 Year Neighborhood Plan: Southern Compass-A Plan for the Future. Prior to the 1990’s the City of Syracuse relied on the Community Development Advisory Committee as its method of gaining input from the city’s neighborhoods. Community planning with resident participation is one of the requirements for cities receiving Community Development Block Grants. Syracuse had a system in place that had some people serving on committees for over a decade. The Federal Government established rules requiring Syracuse to select new way of gauging public sentiment. After some research, the city decided to use Rochester, NY as an ex-
ample. Rochester already had a system in place with sectors that carved the municipality into manageable pieces. That became the framework for their community participation. Syracuse adopted a similar approach; however Rochester’s version placed more power in the hands of resident and business stakeholders in a given area. Many have opined about the Southside and what were their plans. It became clear that there are plans by the neighborhood, for the neighborhood. The following is the opening statement made by Southside TNT as written into the introduction of their 5 year plan. Tomorrow's Neighborhoods Today (TNT) Area 3 – Southside 5-Year Neighborhood Plan: Southern Compass “In 1999, the City of Syracuse established Tomorrow’s Neighborhoods Today (TNT) to facilitate public input to government agencies, community organizations, philanthropic groups and private investors. Eight Neighborhood Planning Councils that corresponds to the city’s eight planning areas were formed -- Downtown, Westside, Southside, Valley, Eastside, Eastwood, Northside, and Lakefront. TNT’s founding mission was to create a comprehensive process that is accessible to and influ(Continued on page 11)
Orange Crate Brewing Company to Hold Toys for Tots Drive During S.U. - Georgetown Game Syracuse, NY - The Orange Crate Brewing Company (The Orange Crate) and the US Marine Corps Reserves 4th Light Armored Reconnaissance Battalion are “teaming up” to host a collection point at The Orange Crate on Syracuse University Hill for the December 8th Syracuse vs. Georgetown Men’s Basketball Game for Toys for Tots.
enjoy legal beverages and food before they head to the Dome to cheer on the ‘Cuse as they take on Georgetown at 3:30 PM or after the game to celebrate! Orange Crate Brewing Company Owner R.C. Faigle said, “It’s a great honor to team up with the US Marine Corps Reserves 4th Light Armored Reconnaissance Battalion by adding a drop-off location for Toys for Tots at the Orange Crate.” Faigle continued, “We expect a large turnout for the game so make sure to get here early with your new, unwrapped toy!”
The Orange Crate Brewing Company is the premAny fan who brings a new, unwrapped toy to the ier sports bar located at 731 S. Crouse Ave. on the Syracuse University Hill, providing a “topOrange Crate on Saturday from 10 AM to 5PM will receive a wristband which will allow for free shelf” venue for Syracuse University Athletic entry into the Orange Crate from 10AM - 9PM to events.
Published digitally monthly online by: URBAN CNY Kenneth Jackson Editor and Publisher 315-807-9022 Walt Shepperd Senior Editor For advertising and editorial: 315-807-9022 kjackson@urbancny.com Online at urbancny.com
“Jim Crow” and Syracuse Print Media: African-American Writers Matter never been filled. She bought smoke & fire to the discussion. It could be discussing the joys and challenges of being an aunt, or telling her audience that a predator has been quietly preying on unsuspecting youth. She had her finger on the pulse of Syracuse.
Decades ago when I began my excursion into writing we started a publication, as founders of The Constitution/Urban CNY it became a mission to create a space where we can write our own stories. At the time, there were several publications that specifically targeted the African American Community. There were dozens of African American owned businesses operating in Syracuse that could afford to pay the cost of advertising, which is just one of several keys to having a free press. Unless you have deep pockets, someone has to cover costs.
Then suddenly the bottom fell out of the media industry. Newsrooms once full of desks and busy reporters became ghostly cavernous office space. Reporters in television and print were shed like a growing Boa constructor loses its skin. The once visible quilt work of writers and reporters of color became as monolithic as a Klansman’s white sheet. Young white reporters descended on the community. It soon became clear that media in Syracuse as we knew it was changing. On television, everything regardless of location, happened on the “Southside” I wanted to give the young reporter a compass.
Syracuse New Times and Art Zimmer
ture into producing a neighborhood based publication. The former head of the Newhouse School and a professor took me to lunch at the Genesee Grande and told me I didn’t have the resources or talents of the University. I was summoned to Eagle Newspaper’s Presidents office, I was told bluntly by Hancock’s replacement, “Leave Syracuse University alone, Cantor contacted a Community Media investor out of Albany. Leave it alone. Besides, you’ll be here long after she’s gone.” Cantor’s, now gone. That’s when it was determined to move forward with new technology and create a web based version of the publication. It took no time to get the initial site posted. But once the current urbancny.com was launched, the site has been professionally recognized consistently through peer- review, judged alongside major publications. To the surprise of detractors and 28 recognition’s later urbancny.com has survived. That’s why African American writers matter.
We’ve given a voice to the voiceless, publishing I met former Syracuse New Times owner Art Zimstories and opinion about African American life. mer, who gave me some of the best advice I ever If you looked at of our local media there was received. more diversity 25 years ago than today. InterZimmer,” Ken, do you want to make money esting absence given our African American population has grown exponentially over the last 30 or change the world?” Jackson, “Can’t I do both?” after a pause Zimmer continues, “I’m years. In this new media environment, Syracuse a Conservative, and all the liberals work for African American life is reduced to click bait for suburban readers. That’s why African American me”. This is when I insert the term, gob writers matter. smacked. Conservatives are proud to proclaim liberals are under their control. ThereRecently, I had a conversation with a locally acAt that time back in fore, what alternatives are we getting when 1989 there were many African Americans spread African Americans are subjects of the news, but claimed liberal journalist who laughed when I referred to Barack Obama as an Africanthroughout our local media. African Americans not allowed to write it. American President. “African-American“, he were regular writers for our 2 daily newspapers, The Syracuse Newspapers had an active program Progressive White journalists for years have been chortled. I was given an explanation that boiled for diversifying their newsroom and there were denigrating Black leaders when they all don’t fall down to this politically, African-American in his mind meant liberal and socialist. And if we don’t into the category of Liberal. They, pick and regular contributors to our alternative pass this test, a white liberal will take away your press. Sandra Smokes would become one of the choose who’s presented as African American membership to the annual Black folk barbecue. leadership, selected for us, without our conmost celebrated columnists because she brought Kanye West recently lost his membership, if an Black life to the pages. She knew how to write in sent. That’s why African American writers explanation is required. matter. code which spoke on topics touching many; at times the themes involved sending messages Eagle Newspapers and Nancy Cantor based on her life, challenges and simple reflec“Tell your story” I continued producing my own media product tions on life in Syracuse from an African Ameriwith the support of Eagle Newspapers; the late can perspective. E. Genesee at Irving Ave. a whole new communiStewart Hancock was instrumental in The Constity rises. There were opinions from national columnists tution/Urban CNY continuing. who are African American but having a local perI was asked recently to sit for an interview about Then a funny thing happened. After Meeting son of color to occupy that space was spemy life growing up in the 15th Ward by a publicawith Chancellor Nancy Cantor, challenging Syracial. When Saundra J. Smokes passed away, (Continued on page 10) cuse University on their recently announced venthere was a hole left in our print media that’s
Syracuse City School District Celebrates 22nd Annual Wladis Hat & Glove Giveaway For the 22nd year, the Wladis Law Firm and Wladis Companies, Inc. donates more than 11,000 free hats and gloves to Syracuse City School District students. The Wladis Hat & Glove Giveaway was first started by the late George Wladis at Seymour Elementary in 1997 and has gradually expanded, now providing each Pre-K through eighth grade student with a winter hat and a pair of gloves each year. This year’s event takes place on Thursday, December 6th.
ano & McKenney Group of Wells Fargo Advisors; Wells Fargo Advisors; Wladis Companies; Wladis Law Firm, P.C.; and Zausmer, Frisch, Scruton & Aggarwal.
The event is also made possible thanks to conMile, Inc.; IBEW Local Union 43; Josall Syracuse, tributions from community members includInc.; Kathleen A. Rapasadi, LLC; KeyBank; Koester ing: Mark & Mara Charlamb, Doug Cresenzi; Associates; Laborers Local 633; Mangano Law Tom Fenzl; Edwina Hay; William Fuegel, Karen Office, PLLC; MONEY Federal Credit Union; Northland Communications; Northwestern Mu- Fink; Stephen & Julianne Gorczynski, Matt & The event is possible thanks to the generous Mary Anne Huber, Tim & Peg Kelley; Robert Linn, tual Financial; NY Spine & support of many businesses in the greater SyraBruce & Rose Marie Nora; Lorri Norris; John & KC cuse community, including: AAA Western and Wellness; Painters District 4; Parsons & AssociO'Connor; Nancy Overend, Joe & Mary Beth PedCentral NY; A. Duie Pyle; American Food & Vend- ates, Inc.; Pathfinder Bank; Postler & Jaeckle rotti, Charles Reller; Andrew Shapero; Gary & ing; Anheuser-Busch Companies; Barton and Corp.; Syracuse Glass Company; Syracuse Ortho- Donna Smith; Megan Spencer; Sydney TenenLoguidice, DPC; Bronstein Container Co., Inc.; pedic Specialists; Syrreal Auto; The Bonadio baum and Chris M. Whyland, Esq. Dannible & McKee, LLC; Endodontic Associates, Group; The Rotary Club of DeWitt, Inc.; TompP.C.; Excellus BlueCross/BlueShield; Felasco & kins Trust Company; United Association Plumb- Hats and gloves are being distributed to students all throughout the Syracuse City School District. Cuomo, PLLC; Haylor, Freyer & Coon, Inc.; HP ers & Steamfitters; Upstate Interactive; Valeri-
National Action Network Hosts a Community Discussion about "the State of Our Schools" on Saturday, December 15th Parents and Community Stakeholders are invited to join the Syracuse Chapter of the National Action Network for a Community Discussion about the State of Our Schools, Saturday December 15th, 10:00 am, the Fountain of Life Church
ual, a nonprofit group with a proven track record of improving school performance or another school district in good standing approved by the New York State Department of Education.
What could happen?
_ What are our rights? What can we do?
As an alternative, the district could ask the state to phase out one or more of the three schools The New York State Department of Education and replace them with new schools with differrecently announced Danforth Middle School, ent staffing, instructional practices and school Dr. King Elementary School and Westside environments such as PSLA at Fowler and SyraAcademy at Blodgett Middle School may be cuse Latin Academy. taken over by an independent receiver beQuestions cause they did not make enough improvement in student performance and other _ Who Determines if Receivership vs Restructurmeasures during the 2017-2018 school year. ing occurs?
The independent receiver could be an individ- _ What are your concerns?
T’was the Nightmare after Christmas: Holiday Debt 2018 not be overlooked. Make sure your December bills are paid before you purchase any gifts. If you are one of those consumers whose mindset is to pay December’s bills with the January bills; change your mindset. It is time that we, as consumers change our thought process when it comes to our bill paying habits. No more saying, “those Things are looking up, statistically, when it comes people will get their money.” to paying off Christmas debt. Most consumers think they can pay off Christmas debt in five Another indication that you are on debt months, when in reality it could take up to two row: you pay the minimum monthly amount on years. There is an upside, today, the average your credit card(s). An another indication that consumer is managing to pay off their Christmas you are on debt row is your credit card is maxed debt before the next holiday season. The down out. You may not have a lot of money to purside: consumers are entering into a cycle of chase Christmas gifts if you what I call ‘debt row. ’ Altpay your bills first, but that hough they are paying off is alright. their seasonal debt…the cyMany people opt to purcle begins all over again with chase gifts instead of paythe next holiday season. I ing bills first. You must change your thought procall this Debt Row. cess. Paying your bills first is a must. There is no How to determine if you are on debt row: for way around it, if you eventually want to be debt starters, the fact that you are borrowing to pay free. It is a wonderful feeling entering the New for Christmas is the first indication that you are Year without added debt. Try it and let that be on debt row or headed for it. If you are borrow- your Christmas gift to yourself. ing to pay for gifts, chances are, Christmas is not Why is it difficult to pay Christmas bills in a timely the only time that you borrow to ‘make it through.’ And remember, you still have to con- manner? Interests rate are higher. Check your tend with those pre-holiday bills, these bills can- monthly billing statement, you are most likely paying 15%. Most consumers do not bother to
get a lower interest rate. For every six months that you pay your credit card bill on time, you can request a lower interest rate. Where do consumers get the money to purchase during the holidays? 52% use credit cards 30% use store credit cards 8% use personal loans 6% use payday loans 4% use home equity loans We have become consumers who are willing to go into debt for our children. Electronic games, iPads, cell phones,$200 footwear, you name it. A new concept would be to let your child/ children’s school grades dictate how much and what is under the Christmas tree. One low grade equals one less gift. Junior and the princess will get over it. Earning gifts will actually give your children a sense of accomplishment. Parents, it is time educate our children on the importance of spending and saving for the future. Can you remember the gifts you received last year? Can your children remember the gifts that they received last year? If not, this is an excellent time to change to a different, gift giving strategy. Between gift giving, hosting holiday parties and for some, fewer work hours, it’s easy for debt to add up if you don’t have savings on hand. During the Thanksgiving and Christmas holidays we also have to contend with purchasing more groceries than normal. Holiday grocery spending can add an additional $300 - $600 to our food bill. Let’s not forget the all-seafood menu that many of us (Continued on page 9)
Jubilee Homes of Syracuse Hosts 3rd Annual Diaper Jubilee Homes of Syracuse, Inc. will host our 3rd annual Diaper Drive in support of Syracuse Community Connections (Southwest Community Center) and the Spanish Action League (La Liga). Southwest Community Center and La Liga are dedicated to increasing access to diapers for families in need during the holiday season and throughout the year through their various family support programs. Thanks to the support of the community we were able to collect over 8,000 diapers last year for the CNY Diaper Bank. On behalf of Jubilee Homes, Syracuse Community Connections (Southwest Community Center), the Spanish Ac-
tion League (La Liga) and the families we will assist, thank you! You can drop-off your donated diapers of all sizes, now until Friday December 21st at 2:00PM at the Jubilee Homes office, located at 119 South Ave. Syracuse, NY 13204. For more information contact Jubilee Homes at 315428-0070 or send us an email at info@jubileehomes.org.
Legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. to be Celebrated in Albany on January 21, 2019 role as Sonja in “The Life,” White has also received several awards and accolades, including The Obie Award for Best Actress in a Musical for her portrayal of Hennie in “Romance in Hard Times,” The Drama League Award for Best Actress in a Musical for her role in the national tour of “Dreamgirls,” and, more recently, a Tony nomination for her appearance in “Fela” on Broadway.
Former NY Giants Running Back & ‘Dancing with the Stars’ Champion Rashad Jennings to Give Keynote Address and Tony AwardWinning Broadway Vocalist Lillias White to Perform RoAnn Destito, Office of General Services Commissioner, today announced that New York State’s celebration of the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. will be held on January 21, 2019 at 9 a.m. in the Empire State Plaza Convention Center. The public is invited to attend the free program in observation of Dr. King’s birth or watch it streamed live at empirestateplaza.ny.gov/ nyking. The Be a King Volunteer Fair will begin at 9 a.m. at the base of The Egg; a musical prelude will start in the Convention Center at 9 a.m.; and the program will begin promptly at 10 a.m. “Each year we celebrate the life and legacy of our nation’s most important civil rights leader by enjoying talented performers and inspirational speakers who pay tribute to Dr. King, at the NYS MLK Memorial Observance. This year we are especially excited to have Rashad Jones giving the keynote address and Lillias White singing,” Commissioner Destito said. “I join Governor Cuomo in inviting everyone to come in person or watch the live video of this important tradition at the Empire State Plaza where we rededicate ourselves to keeping Dr. King’s dream alive.” This year’s keynote speaker is Rashad Andre Jennings, a former National Football League running back. He was drafted by the Jacksonville Jaguars in the seventh round of the
Her other theater credits include Broadway productions of “How to Succeed in Business,” “Once on This Island,” “Rock n’ Roll: The First 5,000 Years,” “Barnum,” “Carrie,” 2009 NFL Draft. He also played for the Oakand “Dreamgirls,” as well as the offland Raiders and the New York Giants. JenBroadway productions of “Crowns,” “The nings played college football at the UniversiVagina Monologues,” “Waiting for Godot,” ty of Pittsburgh but made the difficult choice “The Princess & The Black-Eyed Pea,” and to transfer to Liberty University to be by the “Dinah Was.” side of his ailing father. White has also gone on national and internaUpon becoming a free agent in the NFL, Jentional tours for “Ain’t Misbehavin’,” nings took his athleticism to the stage of “Tintypes,” and “The Wiz.” Her TV and film ABC’s hit show “Dancing With The Stars.” credits include featured roles in the films: Applying the same unwavering dedication to “Pieces of April,” “The Grinch That Stole outworking all of his peers, Rashad took the Christmas,” “Gloria,” “North,” and Disney’s dancing world by storm and was crowned “Hercules.” In 1992 she won an Emmy Dancing With The Stars Season 24 Mirror Award for her role as Lillian Edwards in Ball Champion. He has also made guest ap“Sesame Street.” pearances on TV shows such as Starz network’s “Power” and NBC’s “Great News.” The Dr. King Memorial Observance will also include a number of musical tributes to Dr. Along with being a philanthropist as founder King from local and regional performers, inof his national Rashad Jennings Foundation, cluding the soulful sounds of Victory Boyd, Rashad continues to pursue dancing, acting, SUNY Potsdam Crane School of Music’s Jazz and a host of other entrepreneurial endeavEnsemble and the Dr. King Community Choir ors. He is also a noted speaker and has given and Ensemble directed by Marcelle Johnson. motivational addresses to thousands across the country. At the young age of 33, he Following the formal program, the City of reached another great milestone in his sto- Albany “Beloved Community March” will ried career, becoming a published author begin at the Plaza Concourse entrance on with the release of his first book, “The IF in Madison Avenue. The march will conclude at Life,” in which he wrote about the decisions the King Monument in Lincoln Park with a that shaped his destiny. wreath-laying ceremony. A CDTA bus will be available for those requiring transportation This year’s celebration will include a special to the monument. performance by Tony Award-winning Broadway actress and vocalist Lillias White. An Albany City Hall Carillon Concert will take place at noon. Born in Brooklyn, White was recognized with Broadway’s prestigious quadruple crown – Tony Award, Drama Desk Award, People’s Choice Awards and The Outer Critics Award There will also be several additional activities (Continued on page 7) for Best Actress in a Musical for her 1997
Sankofa Tree Lighting Friday December 7th presented by 4th District Councilor Latoya Allen Please join neighbors and friends of the Sankofa Neighborhood in our tree lighting ceremony. Entertainment provided by DJ Bella, Dr. King Elementary Chorus, Syracuse Strong Lady Eagles, Yat Pak and more... Sankofa Tree Lighting Friday December 7th presented by 4th District Councilor Latoya Allen 5:30 pm @ Sankofa Park (S. Salina behind Beauchamp Library) Book Giveaway by Syracuse Teachers Association Music by DJ Bella, Refreshment will be served Bring the kids out to enjoy cookies, hot coco, and entertainment!
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taking place at the Empire State Plaza, including:
Empire State “Be A King” Volunteer Fair. Empire State Dr. King Quilt Display. King Statewide Children’s Art and Essay Exhibit. Commemorative Dr. King cookies provided by Price Chopper/Market 32. To honor Dr. King’s message throughout the year, a number of events are held to remind people of his vision for the community. These include The Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Statewide Food Drive held December 14, 2018 to February 14, 2019, the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Statewide Children’s Literacy Drive held February 25 to April 25, and the 2019 Dr. King Statewide Career Fair on April 4, 2019. The Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial Observance will be streamed live, beginning at 10 a.m. on January 21 at empirestateplaza.ny.gov/nyking. For up-to-the-minute information on the celebration, visit empirestateplaza.ny.gov/nyking, and follow @NYSMLK on facebook and Twitter.
New Syracuse Snow Safety Web Page Includes GPSPowered Snow Plow Map City Completing Discussions with Sidewalk Snow Clearance Contractors Syracuse, N.Y. – The city of Syracuse has launched a new snow safety web page to provide information about how the City prepares for and responds to snow events, how to track and report snow clearance on streets and sidewalks, and responsibilities of city residents during snow events. It is located on the City’s website under the “Living” tab and at syrgsyrgov.net/snowsafety.html
The City also continued its “Snow Issues Tracker,” an online tool that allows residents to report unshoveled sidewalks and illegally parked cars.
The City is continuing discussions with potential contractors to provide supplementary sidewalk snow clearing services. The City hopes to have a selection made by mid-December with implementation of the program beginning as soon as possible after the selection. In September, the City announced a pilot program for municipal “People need easily acces- sidewalk snow removal. Under the program, the sible information on the City will clear snow from sidewalks on about City’s snow clear20 miles of city streets, or approximately 40 total ance process and promiles of sidewalk, that see high vehicular and gress. It’s also important pedestrian activity. that we all understand our own roles and responsibil- The announcement came during a presentation ities as citizens. All of these factors contribute to to the Syracuse Common Council Public Works everyone’s safety during and after a snow Committee on snow safety plans for winter 2018 event,” said Syracuse Mayor Ben Walsh. “We are -19. Other areas the City identified to continue The web page includes a map that provides near constantly evaluating and adjusting our snow and improve included: data collection; parking real-time updates on plow locations and prooperations to decrease the time and increase the enforcement; snow safety public information; gress; guidance on how and where residents can quality of our snow clearance. We have more plow operations; private plow operator licenses; report concerns; and information about the work to do, but this is another step in and recreation. City’s snow removal operations, parking enforce- our continuous effort to improve our snow rement, and sidewalk snow clearance ordinances. moval process.”
City of Syracuse Releases Analysis of U.S. Census Bureau 2017 Poverty Report City report identifies key barriers to progress that are affecting Syracuse more severely than other Upstate cities Syracuse, N.Y. – The city of Syracuse today released an analysis of the U.S. Census Bureau 2017 American Community Survey (ACS) data on poverty in Syracuse. The City’s analysis, authorized by Mayor Ben Walsh and completed by analysts in the city’s Department of Neighborhood and Business Development and the Office of Accountability, Performance, and Innovation, focused on identifying the key barriers to progress that appear to be affecting Syracuse more negatively than other Upstate cities. The complete City analysis is available at bit.ly/ syrgov-report184. The City issued the analysis, conducted after the release of the Census Bureau ACS one-year estimates for 2017 in midSeptember, in anticipation of the next ACS data release expected later this week. “People across our community are working together every day to reduce poverty, and the Census Bureau report verified that those efforts
are having an impact. According to the Census Bureau, the poverty rate declined in 2017,” said Mayor Walsh. “The Census Bureau data also showed that other Upstate cities appear to have made more progress in the same time period. We need to understand why, so we can ensure that all people living in Syracuse have access to opportunity.” According to the City’s analysis, five conditions more negatively impact people in the city of Syracuse than Buffalo, Rochester, and Albany.
Housing Stability – 20 percent of children ages 017 have moved within a year, similar to other Upstate cities Digital Access – One out of two residents don’t have access to a computer at home with broadband, the highest percent of residents lacking internet access across the Upstate cities The City reviewed its findings with Onondaga County and multiple community partners during the completion of the analysis.
“Poverty is a complex and multi-faceted challenge. It affects rural and suburban areas, as well as the city,” said Onondaga County Executive Ryan McMahon. “The City’s analysis of the 2017 Workforce Participation – the share of people not in the workforce increased while other Up- data adds to the understanding of the challenges state cities saw declines or only a slight increase facing our community. Onondaga County has no greater priority than reducing poverty wherever Educational Attainment – while graduation rates it exists, and we will be working with the City improved, Syracuse lags significantly behind and all of our community partners to achieve Buffalo and Albany in Third Grade English Lanthat goal every single day.” guage Arts (ELA) proficiency In addition to reviewing the ACS one-year estiTransportation – compared to other Upstate mates for 2017, the City team also reviewed the cities, Syracuse as the highest percentage of ACS five-year data from 2012 through 2016. An people using public transportation who have no update to the five-year estimates is expected access to a vehicle from the Census Bureau on Dec. 6.
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enjoy on New Year’s Day. That alone can set a budget back another $350.00. Keep in mind that a Christmas Club account can help defray the cost of grocery items as well as gifts. Be smart as well as proactive; open a Christmas Club account for next year.
up this time of year. Liquidators are in business to make money, they are not giving you a deal, and liquidating is what they do. They come into We all love the supermarkets where we can get the area, rent a temporary location and move on free food samples as we shop. These promotions before you realize the item you purchased is not performing to the excellent standards that their are plentiful this time of year, we pay for those promotions one way or another. All those adver- advertisements proclaimed. Do not be fooled. tisements, we pay for those too. Try shopping for That flat screen television that you purchased at the liquidation sale for $499.00, you could have your food at some of the discount grocery purchased it at Walmart for $99 on Black Friday. stores: Price Rite and Aldi’s, etc. You would have received a warranty from I understand that it is easy to get caught up in Walmart. Liquidators do not accept returns nor the holiday merriment. Advertisers are enticing do they give warranties. And their 800 number is us on television, on the radio, billboards, every- no longer a working number. where. The malls are decorated beautifully, all to get us to spend, spend, spend. Merchants invest Make yourself a Christmas shopping list. Santa checks his list twice - go Santa one better and big bucks to get our dollars. check your list three When the New Year arrives times. Do you really and you miss a payment, want to buy gifts for those same merchants (who everyone on your pulled out all of the stops to list? Splurge on a get you to purchase from greeting card instead. them) start calling you at Trust me, you will get home and on the job, asking over the commercialwhen they can expect payism hype of the season ment. Did you know they and reality will set in like it when you miss a payon December 26th. ment? Yes, that is how they make a good portion of Creativity is the key in their money. gift giving this year.
found at your local thrift shop. Nowadays you need a part time job to be able to purchase gift wrapping; everything has gone up in price and there is no end in sight. Creative gift wrapping is the answer. We all have items in our closet that no longer fit. That old outdated linen or silk dress or that 2 sizes too small suit will make elegant wrapping cloth for your creative gift. A bow from the dollar store and you are good to go. If you search, savings can be found everywhere. An appointment at a hair salon or barber shop makes a nice, affordable gift for the niece or nephew on your list. An oil change or car tune up gift certificate for an elderly aunt or uncle (on a fixed income) is economical and appreciated. A pedicure makes a nice, relaxing gift for your parents. For gifts that may cost more, consider partnering with a sibling or a friend to make the purchase more affordable. Examples for this type of gift giving would be fruit baskets, cheese and sausage baskets, etc. Restaurant gift certificates would make a nice holiday treat for someone on your list. Consider taking someone different to the office Christmas party and be sure to notice the smile on their face. A gift certificate for a massage for that hard working sibling of yours may garner you the ‘Best Sibling of the Year Award.’ Many of the gift ideas that I’ve mentioned can be found on Living Social, Groupon or other similar websites for additional savings.
Lastly, keep in mind when you use your credit card, you are simply borrowing from your future income. If you use a credit card, remember they are for convenience, and should be paid off at the end of every month. When you use your debit card to purchase a Christmas gift or any item for that matter, ask yourself what bill will go unpaid as a result of that purchase. You know Affordable gift giving, it your finances better than anyone. Be honest, ask Because you missed a paycan be done, get crea- yourself the hard questions, such as, “Can I really ment, they can raise your tive in your thinking. interest rate, charge you afford this” and more importantly, “Why I am I We all have pictures over the limit fees, etc. They buying?” that are dear to us and don’t really want your to those we know and Break the cycle of spending money that you do monthly payment to come love. Clean the dust off not have. A sure fire way to know what should or in a timely manner. If you should not be charged on a credit card: can the those sentimental pictures, give them new life. pay your bills on time, merchants and retailers benefit, but not as much as when you miss a pay- Now, go to your local dollar store and purchase a item be seen in two to three months? If not, you should pay cash for those items. Those items nice silver or gold picture frame. ment or pay late. Keep that in mind when you think you want to spend money you do not have It truly is not the amount of the gift that counts; include, but are not limited to groceries, gas and fast food. during this festive time of year. it is the thought that will touch hearts. Thrift stores sell silk neckties for 99 cents, you can have Remember, when shopping at any time of the It is time for consumers everywhere to get off year: ACT YOUR WAGE. the necktie dry cleaned for approximately $3. the debt roller coaster. Although this holiday season may entice you to spend more than you The recipient of your gift will not know how Barbara Peterson is founder of Peterson Sewing much you spent unless you tell them. When can afford, discipline is the key to helping you School, co-owner of The Syracuse Seamstress, shopping at the thrift stores stick with items that Partner at Syracuse Fashion Gallery, owner of manage your purchases. Do not get taken in by are 50% off. You could very well purchase a those 60% off deals or those‘ no interest until Debt Row Freedom and Syracuse Spice Company. 2019’ deals. Read the fine print, do the math and Jones NY or Anne Klein suit for $7.99. Note to She is also certified by the FDIC to teach their the men: I purchased a Michael Kors satin dress Money Smart and Train the Trainer programs. calculate if it is truly a bargain. and jacket a few years ago. It was 50% off, my Do not be tempted by liquidation sales that pop cost, a whopping $5. Designer items can be
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tion I once wrote for. I declined. I told them that after spending 30 years in Syracuse writing about its African American population I have my own media outlet and I’m writing my story. The stories about Black life that are never heard in Syracuse; they’re drowned out by enE. Genesee at Irving Ave. a whole new community rises trepreneurs who view African American life as crime ridden and “transactional”, viewed from a distance. That’s why African American writers clearly depicted in the plan. Along with signamatter. tures of African American pastors of the day, along with pledges from Sutton, Eagan and other Growing up on Harrison Street during the conlocal realtors not to “colonize” recently displaced struction of Interstate 81 and Urban Renewal, I residents. Realtors of the day proceeded to herd had a front row seat to the massive destruction African Americans into certain Southside areas. and relocation of an entire Black CommuniThey colonized the African American Community ty. Owning a house on the campus map, we es- into geographic areas on the Southside, causing caped the massive relocation of the Africanwhite flight and the ultimate downfall of major American community. Therefore, I had a bird’s portions of Syracuse. eye view. While other children constructed club houses, we had our pick of the dozens of vacated As we now are facing questions about the future homes all slated for demolition. of Interstate 81 and the consensus surrounding We left the area in 1978 when, unthe Community Grid. I known to my family a man who remember the reasons happen to be a Syracuse University for tearing down the employee bought the house I spent Black Community that 20 years in. We lived in a neighboronce occupied the E. hood that had radically changed, Genesee St. Corriincreased in value. My parents dor. Early in the debate sold. Two months later plans for about Urban Renewal the Carrier Dome were announced. and Interstate 81 SyraThe Syracuse University employee was enriched cuse University Chancellor William Tolley was as he bought multiple properties at the time. He quoted stated, “We must clean up the doorstep was forced to resign and transfer the properties; to the University”. The Black Community was at the damage had already been done. People Syracuse University’s doorstep and we were cheated because of Syracuse University inside cleaned out. Areas that once housed families like information. the Torrance’s, Williams, O’Neill’s and Sanford’s have been transitioned to high end residential. We’ve Been Here Before
tax reduced, tax credit funded, Communities-in-a -box designed for luxury living with rents starting at $1,500 monthly. Properties on streets that were once seen as slum properties are now going for $200k, the transition of the neighborhood is complete. You would never read anything like this in other Syracuse publications. African Americans are “click bait” for major outlets as suburbanites delight in referring to Syracuse residents as thugs and thieves. This is why African-American writers are important. We document what happens in our neighborhoods, in our city. We live here, we worship here, and we buy here. However, the way print media is owned and controlled in Syracuse, we’re simply reduced to common scallions in a white man’s kitchen.
Nationally known African American writer John Williams’ authored at least 29 books including 13 novels. Many of them draw on his experiences coming of age in Syracuse, as stated in his Offprint from Syracuse University Press 1964, Portrait of a City: Syracuse the Old Home Town. William’s writes, “Change is in the air. You hear machines tearing down or building up; girders mount the low horizons. Nowhere is change more evident than in the 15th Ward. Urban Renewal and New Highways have leveled most of it to the ground. Yellow bulldozers groan back and forth making sure that every vestige of the unhappy Negro. Who toward the end, alone Now, over 50 years lat- inhabited The Ward, is crushed out of sight, out Fast forward to Ithaca College er we’re given a myriad of memory.” 1979, I’m preparing to start my of plans and schemes final semester. I took a course In other reflections about Syracuse, Williams’ depicting our city of that focused on Robert Moses wrote about its politics and scandal. Stories Syracuse with a Comknown as “New York’s Master about the Syracuse police department so corrupt munity Grid freeing up having to be swept top to bottom, an AfricanBuilder” the book by Robert space for development, American “numbers man” took the major fall. Caro. The final project for that removing the “Berlin course had me return to SyraRepublicans choose William Walsh to clean up Wall” of the elevated cuse, where I was given access the mess. Cultural Center in Thornden Park highway. The plans to the original large brown look frightening famil- Williams’ wrote about Syracuse in his book called binders that held the original iar, complete with de- Junior Bachelor Society (Doubleday 1976), the plans for Syracuse’s Urban Retails and a consensus that was built by extolling city the characters return to, is Syracuse, though newal and Interstate 81 project. not named. His extensive archives are at the the benefits of the Community Grid. I was stunned to find the grand plans with plazas University of Rochester, some of his work, a and new municipal buildings, an expanded Cen- All I know is when I go back to the old neighbor- smaller collection is at Syracuse University. tral High school with playing fields, a playing field hood, on blocks that once housed Black families, African American Writers Matter! all have been transitioned to high end living. for Washington Irving School. Housing built for Black families have been replaced by property the thousands displaced by construction was
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enced by neighborhood residents, businesses and local organizations to shape the future of their community. In essence making tomorrow’s neighborhoods possible because of the decisions being made today. This approach to planning helps direct the city’s resources into priority areas in the most costeffective way.
discuss the project, along with unveiling Southside plans for neighborhood revitalization.
Rev. E. Brian Eure, an ardent supporter of the project, took to social media in a Facebook post stating, “I pray that for those who claim to have a plan for the South Side of Syracuse. I pray that the 5 year plan comes to fruition. I hope I can help. I Plans include Café with outdoor seating am just not sure when One of the main functhe 5 year clock is eitions of each TNT secther going to start or tor is to create a five-year plan that would in2. b) Safe and Vibrant neighborhoods; Communi- has started.” He continues, “FOR THE RECORD, clude a comprehensive vision for the diverse the notion that you have to be born and raised in ty policing, police hubs throughout the neighborhoods within the area, five-year goals Southside, Improved lighting, establishing neigh- a neighborhood to care about that neighborhood and objectives, prioritized action steps, budgets, borhood watch is “ridiculous” I personally never been to South recommendations to operating city departments Africa, but I am glad they ended Apartheid & and timelines for completion. 3. c) Quality and safe Education elected Nelson Mandela. Time will tell who is for our children; Innovative pro- really helping our city.” Each of the city’s operating departgrams and curriculum, safety. ments is supposed to take these It has also been noted that E. Brian Eure resides plans into consideration as they The plan to place Crouse Health’s outside the city of Syracuse, as does the church create annual work plans and capidrug treatment facility on the he pastors, The Promised Land Church. tal budgets. Although some believe Southside ignited a sea of pasthese plans just collect dust, many sions. It has been noted that Sy- Saying residents were infuriated would be an understatement. Backing the assertion that outneighborhoods are now updating racuse’s Southside is the only their plans and crossing off things neighborhood where people and side players are allowed to have a say on Syracuse’s Southside, “they’d never go to any other that were accomplished as a result interests from outside the geoneighborhood in Syracuse and try that”, stated of their long-term planning. graphic area appear to have so much power over residents’ lives. one angry resident who doesn’t want to be idenUnfortunately, that’s not the case tified. African Americans have such a relationfor the Southside. TNT Area-3 As most of their churches are ship with the traditional “Black” church that Southside is the only TNT sector clustered on the Southside; Pas- many congregants are actually afraid of their that does not have a five-year toral groups such as the Interde- own pastors. Perhaps their collective absence neighborhood plan on record. Each nominational Ministerial Alliance says volumes about how committed they were, community with a plan has experienced a notice- met with Crouse/Sears representatives were to a project that they refused to defend in a able improvement. This assessment project was briefed and then openly supporting a project Town Hall setting. Once the list of meetings and commissioned to help the Southside get on the that was not vetted by resident stakeholders. participants was disclosed and their support was right track and experience similar progress as None of the pastors who registered their support made public, some Crouse/Sears Project backers for the project were present at the TNT Town ran like roaches on a dark summer night, when a other areas of this city.” Hall. This meeting was originally scheduled to kitchen light is set aglow. The Five year plan was completed by the people, for the People who’ve long lived in the area, people, workshops were conalong with younger residents and entreducted throughout the year preneurs are eager and excited to see an for community participation improved neighborhood. A drive down S. and feedback. The Five Year Salina Street, just past the Sears building plan was voted on and adoptand you enter the Sankofa Business Dised by TNT Southside Commutrict; the area is not downtrodden, nor nity. The three quality of life drug infested as some would like you to issues that TNT Southside believe. voted on as a community It appears as though the neighborhood is were: ready to move forward, beyond the con1.a) Economic Development; vulsive reaction to the Crouse/Sears plan. jobs, developing the S. Salina Shifting the narrative to growth of the Street Corridor with CommerSouthside, by backing and utilizing their cial businesses and services now completed 5-year plan, it’s becoming and work force development clear what Southside residents want… TNT Meeting at Danforth and don’t want, in their neighborhood.