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November 2018
Crouse Health and Wellness Center at Sears Project Generates Conflict in Struggling Neighborhood Why did the Interdenominational Ministerial Alliance approve of the project when congregants and the resident community didn’t know about the deal?
Urban Colonialism and How a Neighborhood Fought a Development and Won
What did the NAACP know and when? List of local Groups and Individuals Selected to Participate in Process and Schedule of Engagement For decades, those familiar with the Southside recall the days when there was a Sears Roebuck and Company located in the neighborhood. Since that time the retailer abandoned the facility for Fayetteville, and then Dewitt. The S. Salina Street building with its unique design stands as a reminder of better days gone by. The Sears/Crouse project entails renovating the structure and transforming it into a drug rehabilitation center treating 1,400 clients per year.
By Ken Jackson
property owners in the area that they don’t want another nontaxable social services agency in the area. As one area property owner said, “Enough! look around the area The project seemed to appear out of and there are a number of facilities nowhere with neighborhood groups all located within walking disactive in the revitalization of the S. tance.” Upon review there appears Salina Street corridor caught off to be a concentration of facilities as guard. Due to the nature of the pro- ominous as the city’s concentration ject, those in opposition appear to of poverty. be saving their public comments for the TNT led meeting on the facility, Rescue Mission has a campus that scheduled for November, 17th at includes a homeless shelter, gym, Danforth Middle School, 309 W. state-of-the-art computer cluster When word of the Sears/Crouse Brighton Ave. 1-3 pm. There’s fear for use by clients and a variety of Project began circulating around expressed by many who don’t want other services in place for the vulthe city there were instant reacto be identified, they don’t want the nerable. Salvation Army has a facilitions, each on the opposite ends of project but are in positions where ty on South Salina Street providing the spectrum. There are those who they’re not free to speak their mind. services. Then swing around to the maintain the Sears Building has Oxford Inn, homeless shelter locatbeen sitting there for years, why not However, there’s a general consen- ed in the middle of a residential arsus of residents and residential do something productive with it?
Community Partners with Jubilee Homes to Provide Scholarships for Part 107 Drone Course
Many neighborhood residents, including interested community members had a visceral response to the facility’s location, “No, not here”.
(Continued on page 2)
World War II Minority Veterans Monument at the Oncenter: Time to Reflect on the Sacrifice Made by Minority Veterans of Central New York
Syracuse Stage presents Elf: The Musical
going on within the Southside and throughout the community. Apparently, this project has ea. Clients are allowed in until a certain time been in the planning stages for a long time. In and in the morning they’re put out, many hang- July of 2018 Crouse/Sears Project began their ing out in the neighborhood until its evening campaign of meeting with stakeholders within and time to check in. This doesn’t include the the neighborhood. Recently, the list became number of smaller facilities operated by SBH public and what’s shocking is who is on the list, aka Syracuse behavioral healthcare; Syracuse and who is not on the list. Why did they pick Housing Authority is building within the same the suburban church Abundant Life to speak area to provide housing and services combined with before the African-American urban based in a residential setting. The Crouse/Sears pro- churches? Why did the Interdenominational ject places a drug rehabilitation center in the Ministerial Alliance approve of the project when congregants and the resident community center of it all. didn’t know about the deal? What did the The rejection isn’t about the projects need, its’ NAACP know and when? about location. When asked about land recently made available by tearing down Kennedy Records show that dozens have met with Square, a complex built specifically to provide Crouse/Sears project representatives schedaffordable housing, Crouse/Sears Project reuled from July 3rd though the month of Novemsponse was interesting. The land that was once ber 2018. In their statement about community occupied by Kennedy Square is now “owned by involvement Crouse Hospital lists individuals New Nork State and COR Development”. The and groups they’ve supported in the past in; land is also within the area once pitched by The NAACP Annual Dinner and President Linda Gov. Cuomo as a site of a dome, retail, and resi- Brown-Robinson, Dunbar Centennial Gala, dential project. The massive project was Crouse Health/George Kilpatrick’s Inspiration scrapped when Syracuse Mayor Miner, nixed for the Nation, 100 Black men and more. the idea. Therefore, you can conclude that deIn the documents released to urbancny.com veloping a project of this magnitude near the hospital becomes problematic. With the intro- there’s a direct correlation between those receiving support for their ventures and includuction of luxury living centers, owners of sion in early briefings on the project. Many small lots in the area are being offered feigned ignorance when asked about the $200,000 the value of land in the immediate Crouse/Sears, “project, what project?” Many of area has skyrocketed. those expressing support, live in pristine subThe building will be offering health related ser- urban neighborhoods that would never allow vices therefore staff positions will be available this type of development. to any applicant as the facility expands. In adSears CDTS meeting schedule dition, the onsite Cafe will be hiring staff. (Continued from page 1)
munity. These areas are now home to “Communities-in-a-box”, expensive, upscale living centers complete with coffee shops and dog grooming stations. Downtown, is growing with new renters and condo owners. Developers used their imaginations and created beautiful urban living centers on E. Genesee Street and Crouse, E. Genesee and Walnut Ave. These are for students and those who can afford $1,500 per bedroom, per month. The concern of many in this neighborhood centers on colliding interests, institutions such as churches and outside organizations are threatening to usurp the authority of the resident community. This tension pits African American churches and pastors favoring the project in direct conflict with area residents. As consensus builds for the Community Grid, Interstate 81 option the opportunity is there to reconfigure our city in imaginative new ways. That imagination could include the reuse of the former Sears Building, as roads are changed and new possibilities emerge. Land once bound and restricted by the highway will be released for development.
There are some who dream that one day the S. Salina strip that includes the old Sears building could return to productive use. Productive use means different things to different people; residents wanted some configuration that included retail. The Sankofu Business District several blocks to the south, has constructed new retail space and there are plans to rehabilitate houses along that stretch of Salina Street. The TNT concept of community based involvement and planning has a five year plan to bring back Information regarding who met with who what was once prevalent on the city’s As a medical facility, the center will pay no property taxes. The project claims the Cafe will and when, the schedule that includes dozens of Southside, a functioning Commercial District. pastors, radio hosts, community groups and generate $20,000 in Sales Tax revenue. The building fetches $16,000 annually in property church organizations. Meetings began July 3rd, With TNT handling the process, the Crouse Health and Wellness Center at Sears project is tax, which is split between the city of Syracuse, 2018 dead on arrival, if the resident community Syracuse City School District and Onondaga Sears-CH Partnering w Community says, no. County. If the building is no longer paying property taxes, replacing $16,000 with Crouse Hospital details what initiatives $20,000 is a net loss to the entire city as Sales they've funded within the African American Tax goes into the county coffers distributed to Community; NAACP - Freedom Fund Dinner, cities, towns and villages per a formula created Dunbar Center, George Kilpatrick's Power by the Onondaga County legislature. Therefore, 620/Inspiration for the Nation, Abundant Life Sales Tax revenue to replace property tax Church, and many more. There are questions means that our city and schools receive not surrounding community organizations possiPublished digitally monthly online by: one dime from the sale and reinvention of the bly being compromised, disregarding coniconic retailer’s building into a drug rehabilita- cerns of residents who've yet to be heard from. URBAN CNY tion center. Who speaks for the Southside Community? Another reason being floated about the facility and its location, the Centro Bus Hub, the transit center is within walking distance of the proposed Sears/Crouse Project. With the explosion in opioid addiction in the suburbs it’s theorized that the location provides easy access for those coming into Syracuse for treatment from the surrounding suburbs which have been hit particularly hard by meth, bath salts, heroin and other drugs.
Sears CDTS site proposal
More Questions than answers regarding Crouse/Sears process
As we prepare for the decision on the future of Interstate 81, we need not look any further than the areas that once housed a black com-
There’s a simultaneous silence and murmur
This document contains details of the project including size of facilities, magnitude of the drug crisis in the region and the benefits to having the facility located on S. Salina Street. Details including; swapping property Tax Revenue with Sales Tax revenue, a formula that contributes $0 to the Syracuse City School District, generating a net loss to the city.
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
Urban Colonialism and How a Neighborhood Fought a Development and Won done preaching, he returns to his lavish suburban retreat.
Plans for the Crouse/Sears project had been discussed with select members of what was seen as the Southside Community. Lists were assembled and the campaign was launched to gain support for a project that promised to invest 20 million dollars to transform the former Sears Department store from a storage facility into a needed drug rehabilitation facility. No one can dispute the need for more treatment. The scourge of opioids, methamphetamine, bath salts and other substances have hit the region hard resulting in an increased investment in treatment facilities. One of the reasons given for the site selected was its proximity to the Centro Bus Hub which is several blocks to the north. The S. Salina street location is easily accessible by bus. As supporters took to the airwaves to defend the site, there are those who painted the entire Southside as a cauldron of drugs, thus reinforcing the perception that the facility was sited at the Sears location due to a pressing neighborhood need for drug rehabilitation services. This facility is being built to meet the regions increased need for treatment. Not responding to a neighborhood crisis. If you remember, in the not too distant past; treatment of the crack addiction problem was simple, “put them in jail.” Now, since the problem has hit suburbia particularly hard, the need for compassion and understanding is the direct opposite of the attitude when crack shattered cities across the country. There was no compassion for the largely urban crack addiction problem.
commercial property, the neighborhoods response was a resounding, no. When Byrne Dairy wanted to build one of their mega- gas station/ Southside neighborhood concern convenience stores at the former Denny’s site, centered on the process Crouse/ their request for curb cuts were denied. Byrne Sears used for seeking community has walked away once; reportedly they’re still approval. There was the perceived attempting to come up with a proposal that satisexclusion of area residents and resi- fies those who determine land use in the city. dential property owners in the area. After the visceral reaction from On James Street it took several years before neighborhood residents Crouse Walgreens provided a plan for their proposed Health announced that they were pharmacy that met with approval from residents. going to seek another site, acknowledging neigh- During the process, residents were adamant borhoods concern about the facility. about keeping a streetscape that was in line with their neighborhood plan. They refused to accept Community Activist, and former mayoral candi- a design that placed a large parking lot in front of date Alphonso Davis was blunt in his assessment the store, ruining the look of the neighborhood as he took to the airwaves. In an interview on business district. Ultimately, Walgreens comCora Thomas' radio program Davis outlined con- plied. cerns being expressed within neighborhood housing groups and other resident activists. It’s a form of urban-colonialism that allows those who aren’t part of a community to impose their There’s an assumption that the neighborhood will on the resident population. A vibrant liturgirejection is due to NIMBY, (not in my back yard) cal community is a necessity in our community. however, it’s tied more to the process the hospi- Church has played a role in speaking up for those tal selected to convince the neighborhood that persons unable to speak for themselves. Howevthe development was positive for the er, times have changed, neighborhoods and Southside. Groups such as the Interdenominathose living in them are banning together, speaktional Ministerial Alliance were briefed and gave ing up. Take note those most vocal about the their approval before neighborhood residents need for placing the facility on S. Salina Street were allowed to weigh in on the project. live nowhere near the planned facility. It’s become like sending missionaries into a country Having resided near the Tipperary Hill area of Syracuse for a decade, it’s clear that when a pro- because, “they need our benevolent help.” ject is proposed in this neighborhood, it goes There are those audibly whining, “What are they through a process. There are others who may be going do with that unsightly building now?” Easy involved with the approval of a project, depend- answer, residents must demand proper funding ing on whether there are Zoning issues or Build- for innovation within our struggling neighboring Code regulations that can prevent the prohoods. New York State has dropped 50 and 100 posed use of the land. According to one person million dollars at a time on the 375 acre New familiar with the project, claims no zoning chang- York State Fairgrounds. We’ve allowed millions es were required before proceeding with the out the door with New York States property tax Crouse/Sears Project. Perhaps this is due to cur- exemptions that allows a luxury residential proprent use of the property and cancelled expansion erty to avoid 33 million dollars in property tax of the Syracuse Community Health Center locat- assessments. We have 40 such projects in Syraed a block away. cuse, bleeding us dry with property tax exempWhen you observe development within the city’s more stable neighborhoods with commercial districts, there’s more neighborhood involvement and control.
tions, hundreds of millions of phantom dollars never collected.
Southside neighborhood residents are simply demanding parity with other neighborhoods One pastor whose church is located in the imme- For example, it took Brooklyn Pickle two years to within the city of Syracuse. What we’ve just witdiate area reportedly has made offers to purnessed, is a neighborhood that’s revolted against gain approval to expand their W. Genesee St. chase surrounding residential properties, while being treated as an urban colony, a neighborlocation. When a Federal Halfway House was extoling his purpose to treat souls. Once he’s hood that’s finding its long muted voice. proposed in the area occupying a long vacant
World War II Minority Veterans Monument at the Oncenter: Time to Reflect on the Sacrifice Made
On its dedication on Aug. 27, 2005, the black granite wall included the names of 245 veterans. On the wall above the Monument are photos of two men PFC Charles Latham, Buffalo Soldier & 489th Engineer Water Supply Division and Sergeant Albert A. Tarbell 82nd Airborne Division. These men are just representative of the diverse minority group members who served our country during World War Two. Made possible by the commitment by former Onondaga County Legislator, Lovie Winslow.
lander Americans of all World War II services, including the Merchant Marine. Here’s a listing of the names on the wall at its 2005 dedication. It includes blacks, American Indians, Latino Americans and Asian-Pacific Islander Americans of all World War II services, including the Merchant Marine. Veterans must have lived in Onondaga County at some time in their lives. Branch of service is not known for all on the list.
Frank V. Adams, Army David P. Agnew Sr., Army John C. Agnew, Army Valley Allgood, N/A James Lawrence Anderson, Army Warren Timothy Anderson, Army Milton Babcock Jr., Navy Louis Beckman, Army Matthew T. Bell, Army John B. Betsey Sr., Army Eugene Blue, Army The monument at the OnCenter’s entrance on S. Harold N. Braithwaite, Army Curtis Brown, Army State Street consists of 245 names engraved on a Odis Brown, Army black granite wall it includes blacks, American Ophius Brown, Army Indians, Latino Americans and Asian-Pacific IsLeslie Bucktooth Sr., Army Edward A. Bullard, Army
America’s “Minorities” or people of color have fought and died in wars since our nation’s birth. There are hundreds of thousands who fought in WWII and other conflicts that were never recognized for their service. Therefore, the existence of the World War II Minority Veterans Wall of Honor is especially important as we celebrate Veterans Day.
By Ken Jackson
Roy J. Catalfamo, Army Louis D. Christiano, Army Granville Clemons, Army Johnson Cook, Navy Cecil Chester Cooper, Navy Louis Mayhew Credle, Army John William Cree, Air Force Joseph W. Cree, Army Robert B. Chestnut, Army Lyn Harold Crouse, Army Marvin Crouse Sr., Army Robert Crowder, Army Timothy P. Crowell, Army Morgan Joseph Curry, Army Thomas Peter David Sr., Navy Marion Davis, Army Roy L. Davis, Army Walter Davis Jr., Navy Donald Dawson, Navy Romie Lee Days Sr., Army Charles Albert Dixon, Army Kenneth L. Dixon, Army Alfred Doctor, Navy John Dowdell Sr., Army James L. Dubose, Army Arthur Lembert Dunbar Sr., Army Curtis Dunbar, Army Freddrick Dunham, Army Marvin Edge, Army Vester Edge Jr., Army Desport Edwards, Army Raymond Elm Jr., Navy Walter Elm, Navy Isiah Farmer, Army Freeman Finch, Army Thomas Miles Fleming, Army Daniel Frost, Army Nelson Frost, Army Winston H. Gaskin, Army Charles Reginald George, Army Robert E. George Sr., Army Robert George, Army Ronald J. George, Army Russell George Sr., Army Ambrose Gibson, Army Andrew Gibson Jr., Army Calvin Gibson, Navy Donald Gibson Sr., Army John Gibson Sr., Army Maurice Gibson, Marines Clarence Eckel Glenn Thomas Godley, Army Thomas L. Goldthwait, Army Raphael Gonyea, Army/Air Force Thomas P. Goslowski, Army David Green, Navy Loren Green, Army Warren Green, Army Wallace Greene, Marines James Herman Griffin, Navy Julius Hall, Army Denvil Hammons, Army Samuel Harvey, Army William T. Hicks Sr., Navy Leon John Hill, Navy (Continued on page 9)
Community Partners with Jubilee Homes to Provide Scholarships for Part 107 Drone Course Serviced Areas to Include 20 Miles of Predetermined City Streets with High Vehicular and Pedestrian Activity Syracuse, NY – CenterState CEO, in partnership with Jubilee Homes will offer scholarships for individuals to complete the Federal Aviation Administration’s Part 107 course during the NYS Drone Expo and Race Competition. The event, hosted by the Finger Lakes Drone Racing Club will take place at the new Expo Center at the NYS Fairgrounds on November 17 and 18. The part 107 course is being offered by, GENIUS NY team, SkyOP, on Sunday, November 18.
“We are pleased to support a collaboration that lowers a barrier to training for people with an interest in local employment in a contemporary and exciting technical field,” said Dirk Sonneborn, executive director of the Gifford Foundation. “CNY is firmly on the map for the UAS industry and we’re excited about events like these that open up these technologies to the broader community.”
“We are excited to partner with CenterState CEO, Jubilee Homes and “These scholarships are part of a broad commit- als who have had an interest in the tech field will the NUAIR Alliance to offer this important scholment we have made to lower barriers to entry now have a chance to receive training and certifi- arship for the Part 107 course,” said Peter Dunn, and provide access to new opportunities for the cations that will allow them to be completive in president and CEO of the Central New York Comregion’s budding drone industry,” said Robert munity Foundation. “It’s increasingly important for employment opportunities in technology.” Simpson, president of CenterState CEO. “As the that we create more onramps to opportunity for incredible and rapid growth of the UAS industry The SkyOP course prepares individuals to take the region’s growing UAS industry. Central New creates employment opportunities in Central the Part 107 exam also known as the Airman York has built a strong global reputation in the New York, we must be intentional about making Knowledge Test. The successful completion of industry, now we need to ensure all residents of sure residents from throughout the community, this test allows drone pilots to fly unmanned air- our community benefit from its potential for ecoincluding those with non-technical backgrounds craft systems for business purposes, such as envi- nomic growth.” as well as those who have been historically unronmental monitoring, event photography, and derserved, have the opportunity to benefit from house inspection. Encouraging this certification is These partners are also working with local this growth.” critical to developing a talent pool ready to meet schools, community groups, and neighborhood the needs of businesses that are part of strength- based organizations to drive interest and engage“Jubilee Homes is pleased to be involved in this ment and connect people to opportunities within ening the region’s position as a global leader in event. Technology is the wave of the future and the unmanned systems industry. the industry, including manufacturing and assemCentral NY is on the cutting edge.” Said Walt Dixbly, software development, and drone piloting. ie, Executive Director of Jubilee Homes of SyraThis partnership, which is funded through comApplications are due Wednesday, November 14, cuse, Inc. “Our organization strives to connect mitments from the Gifford Foundation and the and eliminate barriers to employment opportuni- Central New York Community Foundation, offers and can be accessed by connecting with Carolyn ties to in-demand job fields in Central NY and this up to 10 scholarships to individuals for whom the Evans- Dean, at cevansdean@nativesunventuras.com. program will help to achieve that goal. Individu- price of the course is a barrier to participation.
City of Syracuse Names Kenton Buckner from Little Rock as Next Chief of Police Following an eight month search process and extensive input from the community and key stakeholders, Mayor Ben Walsh named Kenton Buckner as the next chief of police of the
city of Syracuse. Mayor Walsh will introduce Chief Buckner to the community this morning along with members of law enforcement and the community.
chief, our goal was to find the very best candidate available. In hiring Chief Buckner, we have achieved that objective,” Walsh said. “Chief Buckner brings effective crime reduction strategies and a track record for increasing the diversiBuckner has been the chief of police in Little ty of his force. He understands the importance Rock since June 2014. Prior to Little Rock, he of having strong partnerships with law enforcespent 21 years with the Louisville Metro Police ment and the community to make our neighborDepartment in Louisville, Kentucky. His career hoods safer. Syracuse has an outstanding police experience includes leadership in patrol opera- department. I believe Chief Buckner will make it tions, investigations, special operations, and ad- even better.” ministration. “When we began looking for our next police
Elf The Musical’ at Syracuse Stage Syracuse, NY – The good news from Syracuse Stage is that there are still excellent seats available for the holiday family show “Elf The Musical,” scheduled to run Nov. 23 – Jan. 6. While many performances are full or near capacity, the Syracuse Stage Box Office recommends patrons check dates after Dec. 28 as performances with good availability. Tickets may be obtained at www.SyracuseStage.org, by phone at 315-443-3275 and in person at the Box Office. Based on the popular 2003 movie “Elf,” starring Will Ferrell, the musical recounts the story of Buddy, a human child raised at the North Pole by Santa’s elves, who journeys to New York City to reunite with his family, including his father Walter Hobbs, a successful and cynical executive. Adapted for the stage by Thomas Meehan and Bob Martin (book), Matthew Sklar (music) and Chad Beguelin (lyrics), the musical opened on Broadway in November 2010. It returned to Broadway the following year and launched a national tour in 2012. The Syracuse Stage production features Donna Drake’s direction, musical direction by Brian Cimmet, and choreography by Brian J. Marcum. The production marks a return to Syracuse Stage for Drake who directed last season’s acclaimed “The Wizard of Oz.” “I’m so happy to be back at Syracuse Stage,” Drake said. “I feel like I left a little piece of my heart here last year.” Drake added that her job this year is easy because “Elf The Musical” is written with “such heart, such warmth and such hilarity.” Drake especially urged people to bring children to the show, “They are going to have a blast.” Like the movie, however, the show would be rated PG for mild language and sarcasm. This production also represents a kind of homecoming for choreographer Marcum, who was the associate choreographer on the original Broadway production. Marcum started with the musical when it was still in workshop development in 2009. It was his job to help shape the look and feel of the dance numbers. While Marcum’s experience will be valuable to the Syracuse Stage production, he does not to intend to simply recreate the Broadway dances. “This will be a fully Donna Drake version of the musical,” he said. “The idea is to pay homage to the Broadway choreography not to replicate it. That’s more fun.” “Elf The Musical” marks the eighteenth holiday
of “Elf” was PG. Language: Minimal use of “damn,” occasional use of “bitchy.” Adult Behavior: Implied drinking. Sexual Content: Vaguely alluded to. Violence: Some mild fighting on stage. For which audiences: All ages. Special Events Nov. 28 Pay-What-You-Will Performance @ 7 p.m. There will be 76 tickets available for whatever price patrons wish to pay. Pay-what-you-will tickets must be claimed in person at the Box Office on the day of the percollaboration between Syracuse Stage and the formance, subject to availability. The Box Office Syracuse University Department of Drama. The annual show has become a tradition with many opens at 10 a.m. and will remain open until the start of the show. There is a limit of two tickets Central New York families and represents the value the 46-year partnership between Syracuse per person. Stage and Syracuse University Department of Opening Night Party (free for tickDrama has for the students, the theater and the Nov. 30 et holders) community. Join the cast for a post-show celebration with “The holiday time is special at Syracuse Stage,” live music presented by CNY Jazz, featuring Moe said Bob Hupp, artistic director of Syracuse Harrington, food and drinks. Stage. “We look forward to welcoming thousands of Central New Yorkers to our theatre to Prologue at 1 p.m. (free for ticket celebrate this most magical time of year with this Dec. 2 holders) most magical musical for the whole family.” An intimate, pre-show discussion with “Elf The Musical” actors one hour prior to curtain. Prologues will be held in the classroom in room 141. Actor Talkback (free for ticket holders) A Q&A session with the actors following the 7 p.m. performance. The talkback will be held in the Archbold Theatre.
“Elf The Musical” Book by Thomas Meehan and Bob Martin Music by Matthew Sklar Lyrics by Chad Beguelin Directed by Donna Drake Music Direction by Brian Cimmet Choreographed by Brian J. Marcum Based Upon the New Line Cinema Film Written by David Berenbaum If this were a movie: The film version
Dec. 5 Wednesday @ 1 Discussion (free for ticket holders) Join Syracuse Stage for a fun and festive Wednesday @ 1 lecture with Dr. Miles Taylor, English professor at Le Moyne College. Taylor teaches courses on comedy, the Catholic imagination, C.S. Lewis and language and linguistics. The lecture will begin at 1 p.m. in the Archbold Theatre. Open Captioning at 2 p.m. Performance for patrons who are deaf or hard of hearing. Dec. 6 Happy Hour at 5:30 p.m. (free for ticket holders) Enjoy complimentary light fare from local restaurants, half-priced drinks and $5 drink specials at (Continued on page 7)
(Continued from page 6)
the bar. Dec. 8 Prologue at 2 p.m. (free for ticket holders) An intimate, pre-show discussion with “Elf The Musical” actors one hour prior to curtain. Prologues will be held in the classroom in room 141.
Open Captioning at 8 p.m. performance for patrons who are deaf or hard of hearing. Dec. 16 Open Captioning at 2 p.m. performance for patrons who are deaf or hard of hearing.
Dec. 29 Relaxed/Sensory-Friendly Performance at 3 p.m. Relaxed/Sensory-Friendly performances proAudio Described Performance at 3 p.m. for vide a welcoming environment that lets all papatrons who are blind or visually impaired. trons express themselves freely without judgment or inhibition. These live theatre experiencASL Interpreted Performance at 3 p.m. for paDec. 14 Last Call es invite and encourage individuals with autism, trons who are deaf or hard of hearing. The Syracuse Stage bar will remain open after ADD, ADHD, dementia, and sensory sensitivities the show. Patrons will have the opportunity to to enjoy the performance in a “shush-free” zone. Dec. 12 Dinner & Show ($50, includes din- mingle with the cast and crew of “Elf The Musi- All tickets for the relaxed/sensory-friendly perner and show admission) cal.” formance are $25 and include a 100 percent reEnjoy a buffet dinner at 5:30 p.m. with fellow fund right up to the start of the show. Tickets theatre lovers in the Sutton Pavilion. Seasonal Dec. 15 Students @ Stage can only be purchased by phone, 315-443-3275, fare prepared by Phoebe’s Restaurant followed Join the Young Adult Council for “Elf The Musior in person at the Box Office for this perforby great theatre. cal.” Tickets are available to high school students mance. for $18 with no added fees. At 7 p.m., join other Dec.13 Prologue at 6 p.m. (free for ticket students for cookie decorating followed by “Elf Jan. 4 Last Call holders) The Musical” at 8 p.m. After the show there will The Syracuse Stage bar will remain open after An intimate, pre-show discussion with “Elf The be a Kahoot quiz with prizes. Those participating the show. Patrons will have the opportunity to Musical” actors one hour prior to curtain. Proin Students at Stage must present valid School ID mingle with the cast and crew of “Elf The Musilogues will be held in the classroom in room 141. upon entry. cal.”
Onondaga Lake Park, Liverpool NY Lights on the Lake is a two mile long DRIVE-THRU show featuring: Towering Holiday Displays Larger-than-Life Land of Oz Twinkling Fantasy Forest Colorful Section Arches Fairytale Magic Grand Finale Memorable Animated Scenes New for 2018 - North Pole Station featuring a Santa driven steam engine. Thursday, November 15, 2018 - Sunday, January 6, 2019 5 - 10pm • Open Nightly
As visitors drive through the show they can enjoy the crystal clear sounds of the season on Sunny 102 until New Year's Eve. Treat your employees to Central New York's top holiday tradition this season for as little as $5.00 a carload. Click here to learn more » Send a greeting or proposal with our personal message banner display. Folks can now make a memory that will last forever when they wish their loved one a happy birthday, ask their girlfriend (or boyfriend) to marry them, or send another personal greeting when they visit Lights on the Lake. Click here to learn more »
Admission: Discount Advance Sale Tickets are available until November 14 at all area Wegmans for $6 per car MondayThursday; $15 per car Friday-Sunday.
National Action Network Annual Celebration and Membership Drive Event Full of Surprises The National Action Network Syracuse Chapter held their Annual Membership Drive & Fundraiser. Kicking-off the “National Action Network Syracuse Chapter 125 Action Membership “campaign, the 1st annual TRIUMPH AWARDS- Syracuse Chapter event took Triumph Award winners place on November 3, 2018 at Strada Mia Restaurant located at 313 Geddes Street, Syratheir recognition of young people. cuse NY 13204. Male Artist: Truth Speaker Mahkai Bailey and The evening was a combination of celebration Female Artist P-Salty; young people doing great and activism complete with a silent auction and work in the Syracuse community. And as with music by DJ Maestro, creating an intimate famil- many of our young people all involved with NAN iar sound reminiscent of gathering with family the evening are multi-talented, therefore what and friends. Several elected officials’ in attendthey received awards for is just a tip of the proance including Syracuse City Court Judge Thom- verbial iceberg. These are representative of a as, Mayor Ben Walsh who few of many of our young peowas accompanied by his ple who are making positive wife, Lindsay. In the arena change quietly, without recogniof politics, in attendance tion. were 24th Congressional And what would we do without District Candidate Dana live music as NAN honored in Balter and NYS Senate CanMusic: Hollis Mathis / Reggie didate Rachel May. Seigler for Jams Cookout; the Kenneth Dees- I heart Radio After an excellent diner was group has steadfastly promoted served the program began the advancement of local with a message from Syracuse Chapter Presibands. From Showcase Sunday’s to the New York dent, Twiggy Billue. Throughout the evening we State Fair these groups of local artists have exwere reminded of how many people it takes to panded the recognition of the value of local bring about community action. Recognizing the bands that are now performing at events need to increase their ranks, and as with any throughout the region. organization, bring in young members so that In the category of Radio and TV: Keenan and they’re prepared when it’s Maria Lewis - I KNOW I CAN Ratheir time to As Ms. Billue Syracuse Chapdio and Showcase Sundays and stated, “Take their rightful ter President, Kenneth Dees- I heart Radio. We place in leadership”. Twiggy Billue all know the voice of Kenny This Year NAN presented Dees as he’s the manager of all their 1st annual TRIUMPH things at iheart Radio. With auAWARDS- Syracuse Chapter tomation of the industry Kenny Triumph Awards honoring is the human that keeps us inthose local who have made formed and entertained on Sya positive impact beyond racuse’s most recognized radio their performance on stage, in the arts, in the station Power 620. Keenan and Maria Lewis - I KNOW I CAN Radio and Showcase Sundays has community, and in their respective professions. entertained the urban community and beyond National Action Network leadership is constantly by bringing some of their many talents to enpreparing for the future, as emphasized with hance independent entertainment vehicles
through radio and entertainment. In Print Media/ Online Media - Kenneth Jackson URBAN CNY, publisher of urbancny.com since 1989 through both print and digital media. Providing Syracuse Press Club Award Winning coverage of the Ben Walsh Campaign for Syracuse Mayor and providing prospective and context to the perceived battle between Price Rite and Nojaim’s: Is there a Civil War in the Community? Syracuse Mayor Ben Walsh was recognized for bringing true diversity into Syracuse city government. According to NAN founder Walt Dixie, “He delivered on everything he’s promised; we have more diversity in city government than ever in our history.” It was also made clear that the organizations motto, “No Justice, No Peace” does not preclude them from holding anyone in power accountable for their actions and how it may impact their constituency.
Mayor Walsh, of Syracuse’s newly appointed Police Chief Kenton Buckner.
An unexpected surprise came with the appearance and introduction by Mayor Walsh, of Syracuse’s newly appointed Police Chief Kenton Buckner. In his brief words to those assembled emphasized the magnitude of the challenge clearly indicating, “There are going to be some difficult times ahead as we deal with these issues.” The appearance was met with a plea from NAN, “If you see something, say something” emphasizing that the community plays an important role in creating and supporting safe neighborhoods. Simultaneously, it was made clear that law enforcement will be held accountable if something becomes an issue moving forward. But for this evening, there was a standing ovation welcom(Continued on page 11)
Arthur Ryan, Army Earle M. Scoggins, Air Force Oliver Hill Sr., Army George W. Scott, Army Richard Hill, Army Michael John Scott, Canadian Army Willard Hill, Navy Thomas J. Scott, Army Eddie Hollis, Army Chapman Schenandoah Jr., Navy Charles E. Holt, Army Nelson Paul Schenandoah, Navy Eli Homer Sr., Navy Ralph Schenandoah, Army James Homer, Navy Exandine Shenandoah, Marines Wilbert Homer, Navy Frederick Shenandoah Jr., Army Moses Honor, Army Willie Sherman Sr., Marines Elliot Honyoust, Army Roger Sherrill, Navy Madeline Honyoust, Army Leroy Simmons, Army William Bill Honyoust, Army Jesse C. Simpson, Army Nathan W. Howard, Navy Roosevelt Sims, Army Robert Howard, Army Anthony John Singleton, Army Vincent H. Hunt, Army Wilbert A. Singleton, Army Eddie Jackson, Air Force Ledger Slater, Army Arthur Jacobs, Army Smith, Army Ernest Jacobs, Army Willard D. Smith, Army Sherman Jacobs, Army Leo J. Smoke, Army Louis Jacques, Canadian Air Leon Smoke, Navy Force Percy Smoke, Army Mahlon R. Jeffries, Navy William Peter Smoke, Marines Charles E. Johnson Jr., Army Marion Stanfield, Army Charles E. Johnson Sr., Army Robert Stanley, Navy Fred E. Johnson, Army James Stewart, Army Herbert A. Johnson, Army Gilbert Stout Sr., Marines Robert Johnson Sr., Navy Albert A. Tarbell, Army Sidney L. Johnson, Air Force Leslie Joseph Tarbell, Marines Willard A. Johnson, Army Michael Robert Taylor, Army Woodrow Johnson, Army Alfred Thomas, Army Arthur W. Jones Jr., Army Arthur Thomas Sr., Army Clarence B. Jones, Army Edson Thomas, Army Ernest Jones, Marines John Thomas Sr., Marines Jimmie L. Jones Sr., Army Kenneth Thomas Sr., Army Hiram Harold Jones, Navy George Thompson Jr., Army Louis Leon Jones, Navy Miles Thompson Sr., Navy On the wall above the Monument are photos of two men PFC Charles Latham, Moses Jones, Marines Paul E. Tisdell, Army Buffalo Soldier & 489th Engineer Water Supply Division and Sergeant Albert A. Arthur Lee Todd, Navy Nelson LaForte, Marines Tarbell 82nd Airborne Division. Joseph LaFrate, Army Raymond L. Triche, Army Charlie W. Latham, Army Edward M. Tucker Jr., Army Dave Leverette Jr., Navy Jesse S. Oneal, Army Floyd Benjamin Tucker, Army Cornelius A. Lubo, Army Luther Owens, Army/Air Force Frederick Lee Tucker, Marines Emmet Lyons, Army Anthony Ozark, Navy Conrad Vanderpool, Air Force James “Tiger” Lyons, Army Miguel Estrada Padilla, Army Sheldon Vanderpool, Air Force Jack M. Mable, Army Jose Pagcaliwagan, Navy Wesley Vanderpool, Air Force William Thomas Mabry Jr., Army Robert Junious Paige, Army Louella Vanevery, nurse, Army Ernest Joseph Mallery, Air Force Angus Papineau, Navy Michael B. Ventrone, Army Clifton E. Marshall, Army Anna Mae Papineau, WAC/Army Thomas Allen Warren, Air Force Andrew J. Mathews, Army Mitchell Papineau, Marines Emerson Waterman, Army Walter McClairy, Army Ernest J. Pelkey, Navy Gene Waterman, Navy Frederick C. McClaude, Navy Braxter Pettiford, Army Paul Waterman, Navy Joseph W. McDougall, Army Harold Pierce Jr., Navy William A. Weaver, Army James McKinley, Army Lynn Pierce, Navy Charles Webster, Army Alfred McKinnon, Army William W. Pierce, Navy Jacob Webster, Army Herold Miller, Army William Polk, Marines Richard Webster, Army Kenneth T. Miller Sr., Army Benjamin Powless, Army Thomas Webster Sr., Navy David Mims, Army Henry Powless, Marines William Webster, Army Clarence Moody, Army Leslie Powless, Navy Henry J. Werts, Army B. Morgan, Army Richard A. Powless Sr., Army Howard P. White, Army Henry Graham Moore, Army Timothy Powless, Navy Woodrow White, Army Kenneth C. Morris Sr., Army John C. Pullins, Army Thelma A. Whitted, Army/Air Force Harvey Moses Sr., Army James B. Redfearn, Army David E. Wilkins, Army/Air Force Lawrence Moses, Navy Rudolfo N. Reyes, Army Duane Williams, Navy Charlie Myles, Army Robert T. Rhoades Sr., Navy Kelly N. Wilson, Army Raymond M. Newport Sr., Navy Floyd Rice, Air Force Aubrey D. Winslow Sr., Army Bernard Nolan, Marines James E. Richards Jr., Army Michael Henry Wolek, Army Leo Nolan Sr., Navy Donald Honyoust Rockwell, Navy James L. Young, Army (Continued from page 4)
Governor Cuomo Announces $372 Million Available in Home Heating Assistance for New Yorkers Applications for Home Energy Assistance Accepted Beginning November 13
Eligibility is based on income, household Governor Andrew M. Cuomo tosize and how day announced that more than the home is $372 million in assistance is availheated. A able to help older adults and lowfamily of four and middle-income New Yorkers can have a heat their homes this winter. Aphousehold plications for the Home Energy income of up Assistance Program will be acto $55,178 a cepted by local departments of year, or social services beginning on Tues$4,598 a day, November 13. month, and still qualify "As cold winter weather apfor help. proaches, this administration is Last year, steadfast in its commitment to assisting vulnera- more than 1.4 million households received ble New Yorkers struggling to pay their heating heating assistance through HEAP, which is overbills," Governor Cuomo said. "Whether it's senior seen by the New York State Office of Temporary citizens on a fixed income, or low-income work- and Disability Assistance. Applications for the ing families, this assistance will keep New York- program, which is 100 percent federally funded, ers safe and help them avoid having to choose are accepted at local departments of social serbetween buying food or paying their heating vices. bill." Anyone living outside of New York City can apply A household can receive a one-time regular for a regular HEAP benefit online at myBeneHEAP benefit of up to $726 if they are eligible. fits.ny.gov. New York City residents can down-
load the application and mail it in. Assistance is provided on a first-come, first-served basis. Additionally, households that have already received assistance may qualify for a one-time emergency HEAP benefit if they are at risk of getting their heat shut off or running out of fuel, which they cannot afford to resupply. Applications for emergency benefits will be accepted starting on Wednesday, January 2. Anyone in need of emergency assistance should contact their local department of social services. Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance Commissioner Samuel D. Roberts said, "Higher energy prices are expected this winter and that makes it all the more crucial that people apply early since assistance is awarded on a first-come, first-served basis.�
Home HeadQuarters: Upcoming Classes & Workshops Classes begin November 5 Home Buyer Education 5:30pm-7:30pm, this 8-hour course provides all the information you need to become a successful homeowner. Trained housing counselors provide class instruction and one-on-one financial counseling. HomeOwnership Center at Home HeadQuarters, 320 Tracy Street.
November 17 Financial Fitness 9:00am-1:00pm, Ready to get your personal finances in order so that you can achieve your goals? The HomeOwnership Center at Home HeadQuarters offers a free, 4-hour workshop that focuses on Freddie Mac's CreditSmart curriculum, the basics of managing your money and can put you on the road to making better financial decisions for your future.
November 13 Understanding & Preventing Foreclo- November 20 Understanding & Preventing Foreclosure - Cayuga County sure
What's going on at Home HeadQuarters? HHQ has an ambitious schedule of classes and workshops designed for the future or current home owner. The following is a list of Upcoming Classes 11:00am-1:00pm, FREE, 2-hour informational & Workshops. workshop looks at how to avoid foreclosure, how the judicial process works and what to expect For additional information contact Home Head- once a foreclosure action is filed. Homsite, 60 Quarters 538 Erie Blvd West, Suite 100, SyraClark Street, Auburn. cuse, NY 13204 (315) 474-1939 info@homehq.org
11:00am-1:00pm, FREE, 2-hour informational workshop looks at how to avoid foreclosure, how the judicial process works and what to expect once a foreclosure action is filed. HomeOwnership Center at Home HeadQuarters, 320 Tracy Street.
Crouse Health Cancels Plan to Build Drug Rehabilitation Facility in Sears Building Crouse/Sears Proposal, this is well-known within the Southside community. Angela Wright, Executive Director of Syracuse Model Neighborhood who’s also active with TNT Southside, has stated that the treatment facility “doesn’t fit into the neighborhoods 5 year plan”. The plan has faced opposition perhaps, due to the way the project was presented to the community. A Review of the schedule of who was consulted and when; sent shock waves throughThe three-story art deco building at 1300 S. Salina St. that once housed an American retail icon out the Southside community. As residents began asking, “Who are these people advocating was slated to become Crouse Health and new and approving plans for our neighborlocation for outpatient chemical dependency treatment services. However, the 20 million dol- hood?” Residents were also alarmed at the number of groups, churches, and pastors that lar projected received a visceral negative repreceded Crouse Health, speaking directly with sponse, mostly from resident members of the the Southside resident community. Southside community. Several pastors including Max Jones of the Apostolic Church of Jesus Christ at 347 Cortland Ave. were supportive of the project as was Larry Williams Executive Director of Southwest Community Center. The Interdenominational Ministerial Alliance a group of African-American pastors have given their approval. However, neighborhood residential groups and individuals have stood steadfast against the project.
This past weekend, proponents of the project took to the black radio airwaves reportedly, people heard the Sears building’s owner Tony Rusyniak on the radio disparaging the Southside. In her radio appearance, the representative from Crouse Health appeared to be condescending and dismissive of residents’ concerns, while speaking of the wonderful benefits to the community of the Crouse/Sears Project.
former mayoral candidate was adamant about his opposition to the project, “they thought they were going to sneak this by the Southside community, that’s not going to happen.” By 9:00 a.m. Tuesday November 14, 2018 the pressure appears to have forced a change in plans, Crouse Health released a statement, “After considerable thought and review, we have made the decision to no longer pursue the Sears building on South Salina Street as an extension of Crouse Health and new location for outpatient chemical dependency treatment services. While the proposed project has garnered significant support – both within the Southside business corridor and the community as a whole – we feel it is best to find another location that meets our project goals and timeline. To our patients and dedicated employees at 410 South Crouse, we are committed to making a $20 million investment in a new location to enhance the important treatment services Crouse provides to our community.
We are deeply appreciative of all business leaders, community organizations and elected officials who took the time to listen to us, learn about the project and its benefits and provide Charles Pierce-El, a South Side resident and com- Fighting back, appearing on Cora Thomas’ radio insight, suggestions and support for the proprogram Alphonso Davis, community activist and munity activist has voiced his opposition to the posal. “
City of Syracuse to Host Forum to Introduce Kenton Buckner to The Community The city of Syracuse will host a “Meet the Chief Forum” for members of the community to have the opportunity to meet and hear from Kenton Buckner, who was named as the next chief of the Syracuse Police Depart-
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ing Kenton Buckner to Syracuse. The Syracuse Chapter of the National Action Network is committed to bringing their current membership numbers to 125 by November 2019. They’re asking for community support for their Chapter by becoming a member today! If you have any questions please do not hesitate to contact Patricia Allen at msbrsuga@aol.com
ment by Mayor Walsh at a press conference on Friday, Nov. 2. The event is free and open to the public. Buckner has been the chief of police in Little Rock since June 2014. Prior to Little Rock, he spent 21 years with the Louisville Metro Police Department in Louisville, Kentucky. His career experience includes leadership in patrol operations, investigations, special operations, and administration.
Saturday, Nov. 3, 2018 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. City Hall Commons Atrium, 201 E. Washington Street, Syracuse
National Action Network Syracuse Chapter President- Twiggy Billue Vice President – Abdul Shakir Treasurer- Patricia Allen Secretary- Elmore Davis Chaplin-James Brown Contact: 313-395-2644 (all calls returned within 24 hours) Website: syracusenan.com