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Urban CNY Interview: The Dana Balter Campaign for Congress Marches on to Defend Challenge from Juanita Perez Williams Father’s Day and “Baby Daddy Day” There’s a Difference
I think what the DCCC actions say to the district is, ‘we don’t really care about the work you’ve done, we don’t care about the decisions that you’ve made.’ – Dana Balter The race for the 24th Congressional District has been anything but normal, given the twists and turns leading up to and including the unexpected challenge for the Democratic Party’s Nomination. There will be a Primary Election in the Democratic Party for the designation to face incumbent John Katko in November. There’s an energy emanating from the Dana Balter Campaign, a headquarters abuzz with activity according to the candidate, “We have lots of volunteer‘s out knocking on doors.” We sat down for a discussion with Dana Balter candidate for the 24th Congressional District, the seat currently being held by Republican John Katko. For months Balter has been working to solidify her democratic base, starting by uniting the politically progressive wing of the party, a task which has been described by some as akin to rounding up Ferrell cats. Balter succeeded in uniting democratic committees in all four counties that comprise the 24th Congressional District.
Endorsement: Dana Balter for the Democratic Nomination for Congress
teers, because it means that our The campaign received an unexmessage is getting out there, but it pected shock when allegedly, the also means that the people that Democratic Congressional Campaign we’re talking to are ready to make Committee recruited Juanita Perez this happen. And that’s what really Williams to mount a last minute chal- matters; I want to be in office so that lenge to the Congressional District I can fight for the things that are Democratic Party’s designated nomi- better for our community. nee, Dana Balter. Balter was nominated by area democrats, garnering overwhelming support of local party Fighting for things that are going to committee members. What gobmake us stronger healthier and more smacked observers was Williams re- prosperous. But, I won’t be able to cent Balter petition support, includ- do it alone, it’s going to be a team ing attending a Balter Campaign effort and I’m going to need to peoevent a week before jumping into ple here in the District to raise their the race. voices in support of those changes. Urban CNY: What has been the Response to your Candidacy? Balter: “The response that they’ve gotten has been fantastic, almost everybody that they talk to is excited, not just about this campaign but about the opportunity to bring change for our community, which is really what the campaign is focused on. So, I’m very encouraged when I hear that feedback from our volun-
Then I can go to the floor of the house and say, look at all of these people in my District that are asking for this, we have to make this happen. That’s why I’m so excited about the level of enthusiasm that we’re seeing from people, for me that means we’re actually going to be able to make change. (Continued on page 2)
Awful, Yet Lawful
New York State Chinese Lantern Festival – May 25 through July 1, 2018
Syracuse City School District Summer Meal Program to Begin June 26th
(Continued from page 1)
Urban CNY: What differentiates you from your opponent Juanita Perez Williams? Balter: What I think is different between the two of us, is how and why we got into this race. For me the decision getting into this race was a rather organic one, I teach at the university. I teach courses in Citizenship, Policy, Administration and Democracy. And so I was talking to my students’ everyday about how beautiful our democracy is and how important it is for a person to be engaged. And how we as people who live in this democratic society; get to shape the affairs of society, get to shape the things that affect our lives, get to shape policy. So, I talk about that in my class, and then I go home at night and watch the news. And see all of the things that Donald trump and his administration were doing and what the GOP in power in congress was allowing him to do. I couldn’t reconcile the two, I couldn’t watch that happen and not stand up and do something about it, like I was telling my students we’re supposed to do. So, I decided I had to get involved. The things that I’m fighting for in this campaign, the issues I made part of my platform grew organically out of my work as a community organizer. I was spending my time talking to people all across the district who are engaged in real struggle against difficult things, against gun violence in our community, against poverty. Trying to make our educational system better for our kids; struggling to be able to afford to go to the doctor and afford to buy the medications you need. It was all of these things I was
connecting with people on, that led me to say, these are the issues that I want to stand for and fight for. I saw this need and felt like I could make a difference. That I was in a position to be able to stand up and say, I can run, I can do this and I want to run on your behalf. That’s really how my evolution into a candidate happened. I think that’s very different from what you’ve seen from my opponent.
Urban CNY: What about Juanita Perez Williams and Women Reproductive Rights Balter alluded to Juanita Perez Williams’ conflicting position(s) on women’s reproductive rights and discussed her absolute commitment to protecting women’s access to reproductive healthcare. Balter:” I think that’s an important difference. As far as the issues go, I don’t yet know what the differences are between us, because I don’t know where Juanita Perez Williams stands on any of these issues. I followed her in the mayor’s race, but there she was talking about local issues. I don’t know where she stands on federal issues, I haven’t heard her share positions with anybody at public events that I’ve been at, she’s not responded. I’m looking forward to hearing from her at some of the debates or candidates forums we have, what her positions on the issues are, but at this point I don’t know.”
Urban CNY: Do You Feel Betrayed by the Democratic Congressional Cam-
paign Committee? Balter: I think what they did was a bad decision. What made me angry about it I wasn’t angry for myself, I was angry for the district. Because I think what the DCCC actions say to the district is, ‘we don’t really care about the work you’ve done, we don’t care about the decisions that you’ve made. We’re going to discredit all of the months of time and energy and effort you’ve put into this campaign, and we’re gonna step in here and tell you what’s good for you’. We’re seeing them do this in District all over the country; this is a pattern on how they approach this process. It shows the same disrespect for the voter that John Katko shows for the voter by refusing to have Town Hall meetings, by refusing to engage with people who live in the district. It’s that same disconnect of saying ‘I can represent you because I know what’s best for you, and I don’t have to talk to you about it and I get to make the decisions’ I think that’s fundamentally wrong, I think that goes against what political representation is supposed to be. It’s supposed to come from the people up, not from the top down. That made me angry on behalf of the hundreds of people that were out working in the field for the campaign every day. It made me angry for the people who come up to me after an event, and talk to me about how grateful they are to have somebody standing up and fighting for these issues, and fighting for the things they believe in. It discredited all of their time energy and intention and I think that’s wrong.”
Endorsement: Dana Balter for the Democratic Nomination for Congress When Dana Balter announced her candidacy for the Democratic Party’s nomination to challenge incumbent Republican John Katko, she went through the traditional process. Dana reached out to democrats in the 4 county region that comprise the 24thCongressional District.
the leader. Organizing Progressives is akin to herding cats, it’s not easy. However, Dana Balter managed to achieve that seemingly impossible task, uniting the local Democratic Party heading into the Fall campaign.
supporter, donating money, attending functions and participating in the petitioning process on behalf of the Progressive candidate. Juanita Perez Williams candidacy brings to mind a story from the 1980’s. This is a story about a young woman, who was declared winner of the 1980 Boston Marathon, but failed to run the entire course. It was noted at the time she wasn’t covered in sweat, not even panting. It was soon Countless events were attended and Suddenly, things changed, discovered she also “ran” the New York Maraplanned by the candidates team, the Democratic Congression- thon. An investigation recalled seeing the womchallengers who were certainly qualified to run al Campaign Committee, decided they didn’t like an on the subway during parts of the famous stepped aside giving Balter a clear path to the the selection made by the local Democratic Par- grueling New York race. With the support of the nomination. Leading up to the final days before ty. DCCC Juanita jumped to the political marathon filing deadlines the proverbial ducks were in a finish line, sprinkled with bead-lets of manufacrow for a candidate that did everything the party Juanita Perez Williams became their newly mint- tured sweat. requires. ed candidate, fresh from her defeat in the Mayoral race by Independent Ben Walsh in a This is the Juanita Perez Williams “1980 Boston It takes time and effort to piece together a 4 Democratic Party stronghold, Syracuse. Until she Marathon” moment. Entering the congressional county coalition, with a Progressive candidate as changed her mind, Williams was a Dana Balter (Continued on page 3)
Father’s Day and “Baby Daddy Day” There’s a Difference I lost my father 17 years ago, June 7th it was close to Father’s Day, so for me this day is a reminder of how blessed I was to have this man in my life, as a father, since my biological father died when I was 2 years old. While it’s been years since his death, memories of his guidance and parenting combined with my mother were building blocks that I still stand on today at 61.
to teach them about life and how to navigate around this nation especially as a Black man. He told me about the old south and how even looking at a white woman could get you lynched and how they weren’t free to go sit where they wanted at the movies. Economic opportunities were scarce and an education beyond the lower grades was difficult since many kids quit school to work.
He wasn’t a chatty man, so anything he said had For some Father’s Day has become “Baby Daddy value. When I was summarily dismissed years Day” which is Father’s Day without assuming the ago from a government job due to politics he responsibility or making the commitment. I told me, “I didn’t have the chance to get an edulearned how to work at shoveling snow, taking cation, you got one, don’t ever let anybody tell out trash, doing odd jobs for elderly neighbors – you how to use it.” all of this with the guidance of a man who got up and went to work in a hot Crouse-Hinds Iron So when I’m up against a situation that seems Foundry, every day for over 38 years. Napoleon insurmountable I reflect on his life, the sacrifices Martin, he was my father. he made for children that weren’t his, the lessons he left for me that rule my life to this day. I never realized how blessed I was until he was As children he took us to the store and said, “Buy gone and how many boys never had that person your momma something nice” – it was our intro-
duction to Mother’s Day”. If you were told do a task such as shovel the snow or take out the weekly trash, you knew you were in trouble since that was your responsibility every week. We learned how to be responsible, sometimes with the assistance of a firm hand. As children when we’d go with our mother to the Doctor’s office we’d quietly play. Once an observing stranger asked how she kept us so well behaved my mother replied, “That’s what I expect of them”. I was blessed to have two fathers, a biological one who made me possible and a second who taught me how to survive. There are many African-American men who have stepped in and are raising children that aren’t biologically theirs. These men deserve great respect and admiration. To all of those men who sacrifice for children and family, Happy Father’s Day to the others, happy baby daddy day, there is a difference.
candidate stands on the issues, we proudly pass saying, “I’m a fighter” to win this election, come along information from any campaign regardless November. race, barley one week after pledging to support of party affiliation. Dana Balter, Williams executed a brilliant politiYes, Juanita Perez Williams is a fighter, what cal gymnastic move. With help from the DemoIf you check our site we have voluminous infor- she’s fighting and who she’s fighting for, remains cratic Congressional Campaign Committee, mation from Congressman John Katko. Every a mystery. For the aforementioned reasons it Juanita Perez Williams performed a political Aeri- Congressional Art Competition, every major would be well advised to cast your vote for Dana al Cartwheel, before the Glutenpiece of legislation; his office makes Balter in the Democratic Party Primary on June free crackers and dairy free sure we receive a copy and we pass it 26th. cheese from the Balter fundraison as a service to our readers. er could digest. Her late entry Throughout this campaign, we have into the campaign is the ultinot received one sentence from mate stab in the back move, the Juanita Perez Williams, not even Published monthly online by: fundraiser appearance, donaenough letters to recognize a phrase tion and petitioning support, on Wheel of Fortune. The National URBAN CNY was an insincere effort. Democrats have run the numbers and Kenneth Jackson have simply taken for granted and alEditor and Publisher If this race were about character only, Dana ready counted the Syracuse African American 315-807-9022 Balter would be the candidate to support. In 7 vote as a given. It’s not. People haven’t voted minutes Balter can explain to you what she yet. Walt Shepperd stands for, what her goals are as a CongressperSenior Editor son. She also pivots to stating emphatically, “I’m You don’t get away with disparaging elected Afrigoing to represent the constituents of the can-American leadership in Syracuse, which JPW For advertising and editorial: 24th Congressional District.” At every step of the has done in the past. It’s going to take more than 315-807-9022 way, the Dana Balter campaign has sent inforan extreme political makeover, a change in politikjackson@urbancny.com mation to urbancny.com regarding where the cal commercials re-branded with another way of (Continued from page 2)
Awful, Yet Lawful By Ken Jackson
Under New York State Property Tax Break “485 Exemption” Cities like Syracuse Lose Millions in Property Tax Revenue Annually Photo: Copper Beech Commons – Vending Machines Saves over $500,000 in Property Taxes There was a collective gasp when it was discovered through published reports that the city of Syracuse and other municipalities have been using the “485 Property Tax Exemption” as an incentive for developers to invest, especially in our urban areas. Millions in tax liabilities have been discounted by local development agencies interpretation of ambiguous rules governing the award of these incentives. In short, the incentives are designed to create job opportunities in retail and office space incorporated into the residential buildings design. As a result, 40 projects statewide qualifying for the large 485 Property Tax Exemption. Employment creation is why they are granted the deep discounts, meant to spur job creation for local residents. Many who are low skilled and undereducated would benefit by having entry level employment within a given locality. As a development tool on the surface, it seems reasonable. But as always, the devil is in the details. Instead of inserting retail and business tenants that employ people, developers have been getting away with receiving the incentives by creating retail space staffed by vending machines and or mock office space, producing a façade of employment generating activity. Enthusiasm is dashed with a dose of reality when it dawns upon you, how many millions of dollars have legally marched through the loophole. Municipalities and investor/developers are using Loopholes that rob the impoverished and unemployed opportunities by using lucrative incentives gained in their name. Yes it’s lawful,
but it’s awful. Since most of our elected officials weren’t in office when the original New York State legislation was passed, we can’t point fingers for prior use of these levels of incentives. Being fully
aware of these lucrative loopholes, we can now hold current elected officials accountable for incentives they allow on future development projects. These have been shocking revelations regarding vague requirements of meeting program qualifications.
inclusion of 3 vending machines. There’s an incentive that is supposed to create jobs through these retail ventures, however the legislation is so vague; vending machines count as a retail operation despite not creating one employment opportunity. St. Patrick’s Lofts enjoys $55,000 per year in tax savings by having a gym available for parties and events. Destiny Arms luxury living located near Syracuse’s Inner Harbor saves over $100,000 per year in Property Taxes. These property tax discounts add up to about 5 million dollars annually, property taxes the city of Syracuse doesn’t receive. That’s 60 million dollars over 12 years. The aforementioned “485 Property Tax Exemption” is a gussied up Welfare program for developers. We have many state sponsored programs empowered to spur economic development. Many programs have mitigating factors incorporated into their agreements regarding employment; failure to produce jobs should result in rescinding the 485 Property Tax Exemption. As a remedy to violating these terms, payment should be required retroactively, at the fully taxable rate.
We have an opportunity to change the future implementation of the 485 Property Tax Exemption to reflect the legislation’s original inCopper Beech Commons has roughly 300 occu- tent. Until then, our local development agencies pants, normal property taxes of $560,000 with shouldn’t award any tax break or fee reduction the 485 Property Tax Exemption in place, accord- to any additional “mixed-use” projects. ing to published reports in Syracuse.com that The 485 Property Tax Exemption is lawful, yet level is reduced to $33,000 annually, due to the awful, time to change the law, let’s make it right.
Poor People’s Campaign: Critical Details on the Rally in DC on June 23rd and more The 40 days of action for the Poor People’s Campaign: A National Call for a Moral Revival began on May 13 and a growing number of Central New Yorkers has taken up the challenge of changing the moral narrative. The time since May 13 has moved quickly. As the 40 days come to a close and the next phase of the campaign begins, there are three important events occurring next week. The 40 days of action culminate on Saturday, June 23, in Washington, DC with a rally by the U.S. Capitol. This will be a “Stand Against Poverty, Mass Rally & Moral Revival.” The NYS Poor People’s Campaign has received funding to help pay for bus transportation from Syracuse. However, people need to sign-up ASAP, if they want to use this option. To sign-up, use this sign-up form. , it is important that you do this as soon as possible! The event begins at 10 a.m. and is expected to continue into early afternoon. Prior to the rally in DC, there are two events in NYS. On Sunday, June 17, 6:00-8:00 p.m. there’s a watch party at University United Methodist Church, 324 University Ave. in Syracuse. Refreshments, stories, and ideas; join in songs led by Marcia Hagan; watch the live Poor People’s Campaign broadcast from Washington, DC; and plan the next steps in the local cam-
paign. The watch parties have been a way for the movement to coordinate efforts and talk about how the four evils of militarism, racism, poverty, and pollution affect each of us. The last rally and direct action in Albany, during this phrase of the Poor People’s Campaign, will be held on June 18 in the afternoon. The theme is “A New and Unsettling Force: Confronting the Distorted Moral Narrative”. They’re expecting a number of people from CNY to go to Albany for this and everyone’s welcome. For information on transportation from Syracuse, contact Craig French, crfrench5.0@gmail.com.
impacted by the cost of healthcare, farmers, military veterans, former teachers, and many others. Stories have been shared and tears shed. We have educated each other and those who have listen to the testimonies given at the rallies. Most importantly, we have affirmed that we are stronger when we work together on these issues. We all recognize that part of what we have been doing since May 13 is raising awareness. We know that this is just the beginning and that the changes which are needed will take more time and effort. These 40 days have proven that we are ready!”
If you have questions, please email them to cnypoorpeoplescampaign@gmail.com or post If you are traveling to Albany on June 18, them on our Facebook page. Our Facebook please register for the event. This allows the NYS page includes photos and videos from the rallies Poor People’s Campaign organizers to plan for in Albany, as well as other information. enough food and space for everyone. Notice that rally begins around 2 p.m., however, it is helpful “Let’s keep moving forward together!” to be in Albany by 11:30 a.m. for orientation and lunch. If you RSVP, you will receive an email with The Alliance of Communidetails about the location of the orientation and ties Transforming Syracuse information about the rally. (ACTS) is a grassroots, interfaith network advocating for social “Going to Albany has been a powerful experijustice. We are voices striving for ence. We have met New Yorkers from across the a more just and fair community state, whose lives have been touched by poverty, that improves the quality of life for all. racism, pollution, and militarism. Sharing their stories with us have been the homeless, people
Dana Balter Receives Endorsements from Common Council President Helen Hudson, Assemblywoman Pam Hunter, and more Officials endorsing Balter at the event included Assemblywomen Pam Hunter, Councilor Joseph Driscoll, Councilor Michael Greene, County Legislator Tom Drumm, County Legislator Peggy Chase, County Legislator Linda Ervin, and County Legislator Thomas Buckel. “I’m proud to have the support of these local leaders, who recognize the strength of our Syracuse, NY – Dana Balter, the designated grassroots campaign” said Balter. “The City of Democratic candidate for Congress in Central Syracuse and all of Central New York deserve a New York’s 24th District, held a press conferrepresentative in Congress who will show up, ence at 9:00am on Saturday, June 16th to announce endorsements from a group of key local listen, and stand up for all the people of our district. A representative who will focus on issues elected officials. Balter was endorsed Friday, like housing, healthcare for all, civil rights, and th June 15 by urbancny.com an economy where everyone who wants to See: Urban CNY Endorsement: Dana Balter for work can build a good life for their family.” the Democratic Nomination for Congress
The event held at Syracuse’s Sankofa Park, next to the Beauchamp Branch library in the city’s South Side neighborhood. Those scheduled to attend includes: Dana Balter, designated Democratic candidate for Congress in NY-24 Assemblywoman Pam Hunter Syracuse Common Council President Helen Hudson Councilor Joe Driscoll Councilor Michael Greene Onondaga County Legislator Linda Ervin Onondaga County Legislator Thomas Buckel Onondaga County Legislator Peggy Chase Oswego County Legislator Tom Drumm
Juneteenth Festival 2018 The Juneteenth Festival will take place on Friday, June 15 and Saturday, June 16 in Clinton Square.
Traffic Advisory – Juneteenth 2018 In order to set-up, execute, and break down from the events, the following street closing schedule will be in effect:
Syracuse, N.Y. – The City of Syracuse, kicked the city’s annual Juneteenth celebration with a flag raising ceremony on Friday at city hall. Juneteenth is a reminder of the struggle and success of the African American community in Syracuse and across the United States.
West Water Street, from Clinton Street to Salina Street, will be closed at 6:30 a.m. on Thursday, June 14, through late Sunday morning, June 17.
Friday 6 – 10pm Juneteenth Parade Juneteenth marks the anniversary of when MaDunbar Center, South State St to Clinton Square jor General Gordon Granger marched troops into Saturday 11:30-12:30pm Galveston, Texas on June 19, 1865 – more than Juneteenth Festival two years after the Emancipation Proclamation – Clinton Square and announced to the slave population that the Saturday noon-10pm Civil War had ended and their freedom had been won. The Juneteenth Festival will host the annual parade from the Dunbar Center to Clinton Square Juneteenth locally will be marked with a parade on Saturday, June 16, from 11:00 a.m. to 12:00 on Saturday from the Dunbar Center to Clinton p.m. Please expect delays on: Square, where all day a festival will be celebrat- State Street, between E. Kennedy Street and ed with food and music. New Street Family Day (including Gospel Music) Salina Street, between New Street and W. Syracuse Clinton Square Genesee Street
West Water Street, from Clinton Street to Franklin Street, will become a two-way from 1:00 p.m. on Thursday, June 14 through late Sunday morning, June 17. Erie Boulevard West, from Clinton Street to Franklin Street, will be closed from 1:00 p.m. on Thursday, June 14, through late Sunday morning, June 17. Clinton Street, from Genesee Street to Washington Street, will be closed from 1:00 p.m. on Thursday, June 14, through late Sunday morning, June 17.
New York State Chinese Lantern Festival – May 25 through July 1, 2018 The New York State ChiThe Lantern Festival will be nese Lantern Festival will open every day but Mondays be held May 25 through and includes two 30-minute July 1, 2018 at the New entertainment shows focusing York State Fairgrounds. on Chinese culture, featuring Visitors will stroll along a Chinese dancers, acrobats, path surrounded by all face changers and musicians. new lighted lantern sculptures – dazzling works of Chinese Lantern Festival: May art that light up the night 25 through July 1, 2018 – and enjoy live performances, food and drink as well as watch artisans These performers have decades of experiperfecting their crafts available for purchase. ence and offer a glimpse of Chinese stage culture. Some traditional Chinese performances include: jar balancing, kicking bowls on a rolling board, face-changing, martial arts, and diabolo. New York State Fairgrounds & Expo Center 581 State Fair Blvd • Syracuse, NY 13209 Official Website › COST: Adults $15.50 online, $16 at the gate; Senior Citizens $14 online, $14.50 at the gate;
Children 5-16 $12.50 online, $13 at the gate; Children under Get Tickets › Events 315-470-0000
The Summit Federal Credit Union Taste of Syracuse 2018 Presented by TOPS Syracuse, NY – Central New York’s biggest food and music festival continues Saturday, June 2, 2018 in and around Clinton Square from 11:00 am to 11:00 pm. Admission is free. The Summit Federal Credit Union Taste of Syracuse is presented by Tops Friendly Markets. The Taste of Syracuse has non-stop music. Multi-platinum and Grammy-nominated band Smash Mouth, will headline the festival on Saturday night on the Express Mart Main Stage. A total of 34 bands will play over the course of the weekend.
end” theme. The festival will pay honor to the various warrior’s from our community and collect donations for two charitable organizations, Vera House and Clear Path for Veterans. The Summit, TOPS and other sponsors and vendors Festival goers will have the chance to try deliare working with the festival to raise money for cious items from local eaterthese great charities all weekies for only $1. Several new end long. All proceeds from restaurants and vendors the TOPS tent and prize wheel have signed on and one fan will be donated to the charifavorite, Bonefish Grill, will ties. On Saturday, select resbe returning after their one taurants and food vendors will year hiatus from the event. offer two samples for $1 to Click A Taste of Syracuse those with a special wristMap and 2018 Vendor Locaband. A limited number of tions and Menus these wristbands will be available at The Summit Federal The Taste of Syracuse once Credit Union tent. Wristbands again features Nathan’s Facan be obtained with a minimous Hot Dog Eating Contest. Syracuse will be a mum donation of $5. All wristband proceeds go qualifying stop for this famous eating competidirectly to the charities. tion. Festival goers can watch this from the main stage on Saturday at 1:30 pm. “As a local credit union who is committed to supporting Syracuse, The Summit is thrilled to be The Taste of Syracuse features a “Warrior Week- back as the title sponsor of this community
event,” said Cheryl Pohlman, Vice President of Marketing and Community Relations for The Summit Federal Credit Union. “Please stop by our tent to spin the wheel for prizes. All money raised goes directly to Vera House and Clear Path for Veterans, two charities that make a big difference in Central New York.” “We are very pleased to return as the presenting sponsor of the Taste of Syracuse,” said Kathleen Allen, senior manager of community relations for Tops Friendly Markets. “As the neighborhood grocery store serving the Syracuse community, we truly feel this is the right place to showcase our products. We invite everyone to stop by our tent and help us support Vera House and Clear Path for Veterans as we will be donating 100% of our proceeds to benefit these wonderful charities.” “We’re excited to celebrate the 22nd anniversary of the Taste of Syracuse,” said Galaxy Events general manager, Carrie Wojtaszek. “No matter what you’re looking for, musically or food wise, we truly can say we’ve got it at the Taste of Syracuse! We’re also thrilled to be raising awareness and funds for both Vera House and Clear Path for Veterans. We’d like to thank The Summit Federal Credit Union and Tops Friendly Markets for their support. With help from our sponsors, we’re able to showcase this amazing event to the CNY community!”
Village of East Syracuse, Town of Skaneateles, and Village of Minoa Pass Resolutions In Support of Maintaining Interstate 81’s Current Route Overwhelming majority of Central New York municipalities formally support I-81 and oppose a community grid
What is Save 81?
Save 81 is a diverse coalition of concerned residents, elected officials, employers, union members and community Syracuse, NY—In response to the resgroups that have united as olutions recently passed by the govofficials in Albany determine erning bodies of the Village of East how to deal with the aging Syracuse, Town of Skaneateles, and portions of Interstate 81 in the Village of Minoa that formally Syracuse. Save81.org opposes support, or reaffirm previous support, a plan being considered to for maintaining Interstate 81’s current replace I-81 in Downtown Syroute, Save 81 spokesman Mark Nicotra released economic strength and quality of life. The Central racuse with a boulevard that would divert interthe following statement: New York legislative delegation, dozens of municstate traffic away from the city and leave traffic “We strongly commend the leadership of the ipal governments, and the concerned citizens congestion and air pollution in its place. Village of East Syracuse, the Town of Skaneateand business owners of Save 81 are in total lockles, and the Village of Minoa for choosing facts step – a community grid would be an urban planFor more information, visit Save81.org over fiction and sticking up for their residents. ning blunder that we would never recover from. Saving Interstate 81 is critical to our collective We must maintain high-speed regional access.”
Community Initiative to Replace Makeshift Shrines with Memorial Trees in the Southside Syracuse, NY – June 7, 2018 – A new community project spearheaded by Rashawn Sullivan seeks to replace makeshift shrines created by friends and acquaintances of individuals who have lost their lives to gun violence in the south side of Syracuse. Rashawn Sullivan, who is the founder of the I Apologize Foundation (a non-profit that facilitates the re-entry of formally incarcerated individuals into society), approached Onondaga Earth Corps a Syracusebased environmental non-profit focused on youth education and renewing the urban ecosystem, with the idea of planting memorial trees at
sites where these makeshift shrines have sprung up.
happened. On Saturday, June 9, a group of individuals gathered by Rashawn Sullivan and OEC will be hosting an inaugural community planting According to Rashawn, these shrines – event to kick-off the project that all are welcome usually liquor bottles and memorial to join. The trees have been generously donated candles are not only a visual blight, but by Chuck Hafner’s Garden Center and Atlantic also disrespectful to the memory of States Legal Foundation. The event will start at the deceased. When Rashawn encoun- 10 AM by the corner of W. Newell and Cannon tered the work of Onondaga Earth St. and then move on to two other locations (see Corps (OEC), a partnership was born. flyer for more details).
Rashawn has helped OEC liaise with the community members who have lost a loved one and have agreed to plant memorial trees in remembrance of those lost to gun violence, at the sites where these shrines exist, usually at the same location where the violence
It is the hope of everyone concerned who came together to make this project happen that it will lead to tranquility and peace through the creation of increased green spaces in our city as well as a living memorial for families who seek closure and emotional relief.
Enhanced Online Application Makes Resolving Your Tax Debt Even Easier Upgraded application for installment payment agreements simplifies payment process
Acting Commissioner Nonie Manion. “This upgraded application fits the bill because it ends the need for taxpayers to contact us by phone to The New York State Department of Taxation and discuss their payment agreement and is available Finance announced enhancements to its Install- around the clock.” ment Payment Agreement (IPA) Web application. Taxpayers with an IPA can now take adThe enhanced IPA Web application, found here, vantage of several new features. now allows users to: “We continually strive to make doing business with us as easy and efficient as possible,” said
set up automatic payments, change the monthly payment date to either the 5th or 15th of the
month (only when automatic payments exist), update bank account information, and print a Certificate of Good Standing, which confirms an IPA is active. Previously, taxpayers with an existing IPA had to contact the Tax Department by phone or by mail to make changes and update account information
Charter aka Spectrum in Violation of PSC’s Buildout Requirement Albany — The New York State Public Service Commission (Commission) today ordered Charter Communications Inc., known as Spectrum, to pay $2 million to the State treasury after the company failed to meet its obligations to expand its cable network, which provides high speed broadband, cable and telephone services, in the time allotted. In addition, the Commission — concerned about Charter’s insistence that it is not bound by the terms of the Commission’s 2016 approval of the company’s acquisition of Time Warner Cable — ordered that Charter unequivocally accept the terms set forth in that approval order or face the risk of having the merger revoked. “As a condition of our approval of Charter’s merger two years ago, we required Charter to make significant investments in its network,” said Commission Chair John B. Rhodes. “Our investigation shows that Charter failed to meet its obligations to expand the reach of its network to unserved and underserved customers at the required pace and that it failed to justify why it wasn’t able to meet its obligations. Furthermore, since the company has taken the unfortunate position of refusing to adhere to all conditions set forth in our initial decision two years ago, we now demand the company unconditionally accept all of the conditions as the Commission unambiguously required in 2016, or run the risk of more severe consequences.”
Green Street and Leroy Street Road and Sidewalk Improvements Village of Camillus - Onondaga County Separate sealed bids will be received by the Village Clerk at the Office of the Village of Camillus Village Hall, 37 Main Street, Camillus, New York 13031, until 11:00 a.m. on Thursday, July 12, 2018 and then at said office, shall be publicly opened and read aloud. This project will consist of replacement of one existing drainage inlet, 500 square feet of sidewalk, and milling and resurfacing approximately 2040 square yards of asphalt pavement on Green and Leroy Streets. Copies of the contract documents may be obtained after 11:00 a.m. on Monday, June 25, 2018 at the Office of the Village Hall, 37 Main Street, Camillus, New York 13031, upon payment of $45.00 for each set. Mailing of documents to prospective bidders will
In its order regarding Charter’s failure to meet its buildout obligations, the Commission rejected 18,363 addresses — including 12,467 in New York City and 4,096 in the cities of Buffalo, Rochester, Syracuse, Schenectady, Albany, and Mt. Vernon — to which Charter claimed it expanded network as part of its required buildout requirement. The Commission found that these addresses were already passed by Charter or another company providing high speed broadband, or that Charter was separately required to pass the addresses pursuant to state regulations and/or franchise agreements. As a result, Charter must revise its overall 145,000 addresses-buildout plan to remove the rejected addresses and file a revised buildout plan for going forward within 21 days.
required to pass 36,771 eligible premises by December 2017, and meet regular six-month milestones or else pay up to $1 million for each miss, and up to $1 million should the company fail to correct any miss within three months.
cost $6.00 by separate check, which is not refundable. Any bidder, upon returning the contract documents in good condition within thirty (30) days after the opening of proposals will be returned his deposit. There will be NO REFUND for non-bidders. Refunds will be allowed to contractors who return all contract documents in good condition, prior to the official bid opening.
Approximately $50,000.00 of the project cost will be financed with federal money.
Earlier this year, Commission staff, audited Charter’s compliance filing of proposed passings to be counted toward its December 2017 target, and determined that 14,522 passings should be disqualified, which meant that the company failed to meet its required target. In its May response to the Commission, Charter argued that not all of the Commission’s 2016 merger order applies to the company as part of its rationale for including ineligible addresses. Given the company’s continued intransigence, the Commission today ordered that the company unconditionally accept all of the conditions and requirements spelled out in its 2016 order or face subsequent Commission action.
With today’s decision, the In its initial Commission 2016 order apordered Charproving Charter to pay $1 ter’s acquisition million in accordance with the settlement agreeof Time Warner Cable, the Commission required ment for failing to satisfy the December 2017 that Charter extend its network to pass within its target and failing to demonstrate that it missed statewide service territory, an additional 145,000 the target due to circumstances beyond its conunserved and underserved residential housing trol. The Commission similarly found that Charter units and/or businesses within four years. About did not “cure” this miss by March 16, 2018, nor a year later, it became evident that Charter had did it demonstrate that it had good cause for its failed to meet its May 2017 target. To get the failure to do so, requiring an additional $1 million company back on track, the Commission appayment to the State. proved a settlement under which Charter was
No bidder may withdraw his bid within forty-five (45) days after the actual date of the opening thereof. Each proposal shall be accompanied by an acceptable form of proposal guaranty in an amount equal to at least 5 percent (5%) of the amount of the proposal, payable to the Village of Camillus as a guaranty that if the proposal is accepted, the bidder will execute the contract within ten (10) days after the award of contract. This project is funded in part by a grant from the Onondaga County Community Development Division.
Bidders will be required to commit themselves to a goal for minority business participation in this contract. The contract specifications and drawings may be examined free of charge at the Community Development Office at 1100 Civic Center, 421 Montgomery Street, Syracuse, New York 13202, (315) 435-3558. Bidders should not include in their bid, sales and compensating use taxes on the cost of materials which are to be incorporated into the structure. OWNER’S RIGHTS RESERVED: The Village Board of the Village of Camillus, hereinafter called the Owner, reserves the right to reject any or all proposals, and to waive any formality or technicality in any proposal, in the interest of the Owner.
Syracuse City School District Summer Meal Program to Begin June 26th The Syracuse City School District will provide free meals and snacks to students daily throughout the summer as part of its Summer Food Service Program.
park location (dates provided below). Students receiving meals on these dates will be treated to a special BBQ meal featuring hamburgers on the grill and seasonal sides including watermelon. Snacks are also being offered this year at select site locations to help students recharge in between meals.
The goal of the SumSelect locations will offer special sermer Food Service Provices beginning the week of June 25th. gram is to ensure that Service at all other locations will begin all students receive the nutrition they need to on July 9th. See the detailed list of locations and remain healthy and active even when school is dates, attached. not in session. During the summer of 2017, more than 145,000 meals were served. Acceptance and participation requirements for the program and all activities are the same for This year, meals will be offered at 45 sites, ineveryone regardless of race, color, national cluding schools, parks, community centers and origin, age, or disability. There will be no discrimlibraries. Meals will be offered, free of charge, to ination in the course of meal service. all children ages 18 and younger. SCSD will host a special Summer Meal Kick Off Event with Fuel Up to Play 60!, the American New this year are BBQ days at each participating Dairy Association, the Onondaga County Health
Department and the Syracuse City Parks and Recreation Program at McChesney Park on July 12th (1:30 am –4:00). The event will take place at McChesney Park (2308 Grant Boulevard). Children can meet a baby calf, hear from an NFL player, have fun in a healthy relay and learn about life on a dairy farm and the benefits of dairy. The event will also include a cultural dance with a special performance by Light of the World Ballet, arts and crafts, physical activity games and a community health fair. Park location BBQs, as mentioned above, will be held at Kirk Park on July 17; Wilson Park on July 20; Schiller Park on July 25; Barry Park on August 3; and Burnet Park on August 9. For more information or to inquire about becoming a nutrition site, please contact Rachel Murphy, Director of Food and Nutrition, at 315-4354207. To find a site near you, please call 1-866348-6479, text ‘FOOD’ to 877-877 or visit www.fns.usda.gov/summerfoodrocks.
New York State Partners with Crisis Text Line to Provide 24 Hour Support for People in Crisis Anonymous Texting Service Can Help Users Over- trained counselors will be able to give you the come Stressful, Emergency Situations assistance you need to deal with the situation at hand.” Albany, NY – The New York State Office of MenBy texting “GOT5” to 741-741, tal Health (OMH) today users are connected to a trained announced the launch of Crisis Counselor, who will help a partnership between them sort through their crisis and OMH and Crisis Text Line develop a plan to stay safe. The (CTL), a national not-fortrained volunteer Crisis Counseprofit organization that lors are supervised by full-time provides free, 24-hour licensed mental health professiontext-based support for al staff. people who are experiText messages are confidential, encing a mental health or anonymous and secure. Data ussituational crisis. CTL has age while texting Crisis Text Line is helped users who are facing suicidal thoughts, free and the number will not appear on a phone maternal depression, cyberbullying, family emer- bill. gencies, anxiety and more. The Director of the OMH Suicide Prevention “A crisis can happen to anyone at any time. Alt- Office, Dr. Jay Carruthers said, “Crisis Text Line hough the Crisis Text Line is not a replacement offers people help when they need it the most, for counseling or therapy, it can offer individuals at any time and any place–whether at school, in crisis help when they need it the most,” said work, home, or somewhere else. If you can text, OMH Commissioner, Dr. Ann Sullivan. “New York you are never alone. It provides an opportunity State’s keyword, “GOT5”, tells anyone in distress that we’ve got the time to listen if you are in crisis and these
to connect with a trained counselor during a time of need.” By partnering with Crisis Text Line, OMH will receive data reports of all texts with the NYS keyword, “GOT5”. While users of CTL remain completely anonymous, the data collected is used to identify trends, which can help OMH to better target and improve mental health services for people in crisis situations across the state. To help service providers, mental health departments, schools, organizations advocates, and community groups spread the word about the CTL service and New York State’s keyword and partnership, OMH has created a downloadable Marketing Toolkit that is available on its website. The toolkit includes FAQ documents, suggestions on what interested groups can do to promote the service, graphics for posters, stickers and other marketing material. About the Counselors CTL counselors receive over 30 hours of online training and are supervised by licensed clinicians. Supervisors are promptly brought into conversations in which the texter seems to be at imminent risk of hurting self or others. For additional information go to: crisistextline.org.
NEHDA – Northeast Hawley Development Association Neighborhood Updates ing an additional $38.1 million. Click here for more information. Upcoming Events- Notable Links in Syracuse Shedding Light On The Criminal Justice System June 21 | 5:00 pm-7:00 pm Syracuse Northeast Community Center, 716 Hawley Ave. World Refugee Day June 23 | 12:00 pm- 5:00 pm Schiller Park, Schiller Park Rd . . . Everything Else
NEHDA – Northeast Hawley Development Association Neighborhood Updates are provided regularly by this neighborhood Development Association. Located at 101 Gertrude St., Syracuse, NY 13203 “NEHDA is committed to improving and sustaining the quality of life for all residents and stakeholders in the northeast community of Syracuse.”
Cougars on Butternut: Liquor License Revoked. We are pleased to announce that at the April 4th NYS Liquor Authority BOD Meeting, the Liquor License for Cougars on Butternut Street was revoked. Since opening in February of 2017, Cougars has had a negative impact on the surrounding neighborhood, including its residents, neighborhood library and elementary school. The power of individuals, acting together is what made this revocation possible. Our sincere thanks to those who wrote a letter, signed a petition or those that just did what they could to assist in this matter. We can make a difference in our neighborhoods, we just have to act.
games. Volunteers will also be needed for this event from 2 pm to 8 pm. If you’re interested in volunteering, please contact Katie Stager at 315-472-6343 ext. 211 or Hiba Attia at 315-425-1032. $4.867 Million in Funding:
If you are 55 or over and like to play volleyball, there is a league that meets on Friday mornings at the Magnarelli Community Center 2308 Grant Boulevard. There is no cost to join. If you are interested please contact Frank Schiraldi at 315415-0728. Bid on great Silent Auction items before the event from June 25 – July 13 at our online auction site! Silent Auction – Live Music – Food – Cash Bar. $20 at the door. For more info visit EXTRAVAGANZA!
The City of Syracuse was recently awarded $4.867 million in funding through Round 5 of the Restore NY Communities Initiative. These funds Great news for our partners at the Syracuse will be focused on 17 north side properties that Northeast Community Center! Want to know were part of the original application prowhat the news is? Click here. cess. This initial investment will result in leverag-
A special thanks to the Syracuse Police Department, Assemblyman Bill Magnarelli and Senator John DeFrancisco. Appreciation Picnic – SAVE THE DATE JULY 17: Please join NEHDA and the Syracuse Northeast Community Center (SNCC) on July 17th from 3:00 pm -7:00 pm as we continue our annual Appreciation Day Picnic. This is our way of saying thanks to residents, stakeholders, city employees, volunteers and anyone that helps make our community a better place to live. We will also be celebrating the 40th anniversary of SNCC. The event will take place in front of the Community Center at 716 Hawley Avenue. Free food, fun and Northeast Hawley Neighborhood Map