urban cny november 2014 edition rev1

12
This information is from a summary pro- duced by agencies studying how to pro- ceed with the Interstate 81 Project, in- cluded are links to various reports is- sued by agencies whose responsibility it is to implement the many steps that must be followed prior to undertaking a pro- ject of this size and scope. Contrary to the original plan that placed Interstate 81 through the heart of Syracuse, the 2014 process included robust community -wide discussions of the project and the many visions presented for review. The following provides a summary. You are encouraged to “click” on the links be- low and see for yourself what’s being planned for the future of the aging viaduct. The 1944 passage of the Federal Highway Act began an era of road building in the United States. New York State’s highway engineers began to develop a master plan for New York State. The 1947 Urban Area Report for the Syracuse region depicted the concept for the first north-south highway through the Syracuse region, the Townsend Street arterial. The arterial was eventual- ly incorporated into the 1955 federal publication known as the Yellow Book, which mapped out what would become the Interstate Highway System. In 1958, a decision was made to locate a proposed interstate highway on an ele- vated structure along Almond Street, coinciding with the location of the Near East Side Urban Renewal Area. Inter- state 81 was constructed in three stages, opening between 1959 and 1969. The construction of the final section, the 1.4- mile elevated highway, or viaduct, was delayed due to issues with property ac- quisition and relocation of residents. Today I-81 is one of the most traveled roadways in the City of Syracuse and the Greater Syracuse region, carrying ap- proximately 100,000 vehicles per day. Fifty-plus years of use and exposure to the extreme weather conditions in Syra- cuse have taken a toll on portions of the highway, especially the viaduct. That is why NYSDOT and FHWA have initiated a highway improve- ment project. Evolution of the I-81 Viaduct Project In 2008, the New York State Department of Transportation (NYSDOT) initiated the I-81 Corridor Study to review the highway’s existing conditions and issues as they conduct plan- ning-level analysis of potential options for the future of the 12- mile corridor. The Corridor Study Report and other docu- ments related to this study and its extensive public participation program, led by NYSDOT and the Syracuse Metropolitan Transportation Council (SMTC), are found in the study’s website. The I-81 Challenge study concluded earlier this year, and will help inform the NYSDOT and Federal Highway Admin- istration as they begin the environ- mental review process to deter- mine the best way to improve I- 81 in Syracuse. VIADUCT ALTERNATIVES The viaduct alternatives would demolish the existing I-81 viaduct and rebuild it along the same footprint. The new via- duct would be built to meet today’s de- sign standards, which include provision of ten-foot-wide right shoulders and four -foot-wide left shoulders. The speed limit on the new viaduct would be 55 MPH. Aesthetic and urban design treat- ments to the new viaduct and to Almond Street, which would be reconstructed, would be explored, along with bicycle and pedestrian amenities on Almond Street. Like the Street-level Alternatives, the new viaduct alternatives would pro- (Connued on page 4) A Highway Runs Through it: Syracuse and the Future of Interstate 81 By Ken Jackson The Hall Monitor It’s Over! Katko Beats Maffei in Shocker and other Morning after Election Analysis Roberts wins third tern: The Interview A conference to support the leadership development and celebrate the contribu- tions of professional women of color, in an environment created just for them.

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Page 1: Urban cny november 2014 edition rev1

This information is from a summary pro-

duced by agencies studying how to pro-ceed with the Interstate 81 Project, in-

cluded are links to various reports is-

sued by agencies whose responsibility it

is to implement the many steps that must

be followed prior to undertaking a pro-

ject of this size and scope. Contrary to

the original plan that placed Interstate

81 through the heart of Syracuse, the

2014 process included robust community

-wide discussions of the project and the

many visions presented for review. The

following provides a summary. You are

encouraged to “click” on the links be-

low and see for yourself

what’s being planned for the future of the aging viaduct. The 1944 passage of

the Federal Highway Act began an era of

road building in the United States. New

York State’s highway engineers began to

develop a master plan for New York

State. The 1947 Urban Area Report for

the Syracuse region depicted the concept

for the first north-south highway through

the Syracuse region, the Townsend

Street arterial. The arterial was eventual-

ly incorporated into the 1955 federal publication known as the Yellow Book,

which mapped out what would become

the Interstate Highway System.

In 1958, a decision was made to locate a

proposed interstate highway on an ele-

vated structure along Almond Street,

coinciding with the location of the Near

East Side Urban Renewal Area. Inter-

state 81 was constructed in three stages,

opening between 1959 and 1969. The

construction of the final section, the 1.4-mile elevated highway, or viaduct, was

delayed due to issues with property ac-

quisition and relocation of residents.

Today I-81 is one of the most traveled

roadways in the City of Syracuse and the

Greater Syracuse region, carrying ap-

proximately 100,000 vehicles per day.

Fifty-plus years of use and exposure to

the extreme weather conditions in Syra-

cuse have taken a toll on portions of the

highway, especially the viaduct. That is

why NYSDOT and FHWA have

initiated a highway improve-

ment project.

Evolution of the I-81 Viaduct

Project

In 2008, the New York State

Department of Transportation

(NYSDOT) initiated the I-81

Corridor Study to review the

highway’s existing conditions

and issues as they conduct plan-

ning-level analysis of potential

options for the future of the 12-mile corridor. The Corridor

Study Report and other docu-

ments related to this study and

its extensive public participation

program, led by NYSDOT and the Syracuse Metropolitan

Transportation Council (SMTC),

are found in the study’s website.

The I-81 Challenge study concluded

earlier this year, and will help inform the

NYSDOT and Federal Highway Admin-

istration as they begin the environ-

mental review process to deter-

mine the best way to improve I-81 in Syracuse.

VIADUCT ALTERNATIVES The viaduct alternatives would demolish

the existing I-81 viaduct and rebuild it

along the same footprint. The new via-

duct would be built to meet today’s de-

sign standards, which include provision

of ten-foot-wide right shoulders and four

-foot-wide left shoulders. The speed

limit on the new viaduct would be 55

MPH. Aesthetic and urban design treat-

ments to the new viaduct and to Almond

Street, which would be reconstructed, would be explored, along with bicycle

and pedestrian amenities on Almond

Street. Like the Street-level Alternatives,

the new viaduct alternatives would pro-

(Continued on page 4)

A Highway Runs Through it:

Syracuse and the Future of Interstate 81

By Ken Jackson

The Hall Monitor

It’s Over!

Katko Beats Maffei in Shocker and other Morning after

Election Analysis

Roberts wins third tern:

The Interview

A conference to support the leadership development and celebrate the contribu-tions of professional women of color, in an environment

created just for them.

Page 2: Urban cny november 2014 edition rev1

Published monthly by:

URBAN CNY

Kenneth Jackson Editor and Publisher

315-807-9022

Walt Shepperd Senior Editor Urban CNY

105 Rann Ave. Syracuse, NY 13204

For advertising and editorial: 315-807-9022

[email protected] Online at

urbancny.com

Urban CNY with Sam Roberts discussing his two

terms in the New York State Assembly representing

the 128th District. The 128th district is comprised of

a patchwork of localities from its northern edge en-

compassing the Village of Liverpool, parts of the

Town of Salina, East Syracuse, Dewitt, Jamesville, Town of Onondaga and the Onondaga Nation. Areas

with minority populations have been carved from the

City of Syracuse’s south, west and east sides. The

district includes the democratic voter rich 17th Ward.

Running for his third term, as an assemblyman Rob-

erts describes what he see as the greatest challenges

of being in the New York State

Assembly, “The greatest chal-

lenge is to bring true equality to

the table across the board for

everyone. A lot of things that

had been going on we have to change they aren’t going on any-

more, we’re getting better at it,

and we just had discussions of

MBE’s and participation. The

governor just announced the

new goal is 30% maybe we here

in CNY can move towards get-

ting 20 %. I measure these

things by looking at the jobs and

when I look around I don’t see

people that look like me I don’t

see women. You might see one

or two if you’re in luck. There’s

not enough of it going on.”

When pressed about what a

member of the New York State

Assembly does Roberts pauses

and reflects on meetings he’s

had with different New York

State departments and officials,

“I have made efforts at times… I wish people could

be a fly on the wall and hear the conversations I’m

having with people every day, we’re fighting the

fight.”

Within the construction community there’s great con-

cern about the lack of visible participation by minori-

ties on New York State funded internal projects.

Roberts’ returns to a common theme of what he’s

done to advance the interests of Minority and Wom-

en-Owned businesses, “I’ve had conversations with

past presidents of ESF and SUNY and whenever you

ask, ‘are you meeting your goals’, they say yes. And

it appears in the reports; I don’t see the reflection in

those numbers. It all depends on what I see, who was

on the job. I’m talking about boots on the ground;

I’m just not seeing those numbers.”

He doesn’t stop there, issuing a challenge to Minority

-Owned businesses, discussing the bid process and

employment, “It’s also about who bids and gets the

job, we also have to get to the hiring practices.”

When successful in getting contracts, Roberts stress-

es the responsibility of Minority-Owned businesses

to also hire minority workers.

Reminiscing Roberts talks about the influence of his

mother and father, who were both union

members had on his

life, “I was blessed,

growing up with

both parents; my

mother worked at

GE for 38 years her

union was IUE, the

International Union

of Electrical Work-

ers. My father

worked at Carrier, he

worked 14 hours a

day, every day of the

week. But they vot-

ed, they voted and

they voted. They would take me with

them when I was a

little kid. My mother

became a Poll In-

spector so voting

was instilled in me.

I’ve had a great life

with my family here

in Syracuse, that’s

why I’m still here in Syracuse. Going fishing with

my father is one of my favorite memories. I could be

the poster child for I love New York; I love Syracuse

and Central New York. “

He sees his role is to pass an on time budget and rep-

resent the district, “There are so many things that are

in the books, you’re tweaking old things to make sure

that legislation is inclusive of everyone.”

“It’s about looking at a regional approach”, Roberts

says, wanting more stakeholders at the table” I repre-

sent ;Town of Salina, Town of Onondaga, Town of

Dewitt and a third of the city of Syracuse. I look at a

regional standpoint to show that ‘need’ to get

resources and make sure they get a piece of

the pie.”

What stands out?

Asked about what stands out as a responsibil-

ity of his job Roberts talks about constituent

services,” I want to be that voice I want to

make sure that constituents have access to

government. You never send a constituent

away without trying to do something to help

them. I’m here to represent them, that’s my

main focus. We have to make sure we contin-

ue to provide a safety net for those who need

it. The economy is getting better. We are still

not where we need to be. “

Roberts in especially confident that the Re-

gional Economic Development concept is

going to be successful, “Different groups’ businesses

and universities applied for consideration. It’s a

lengthy process and it goes before a regional group

and they grade them and move them along. You’re

competing against others in our region. And also you

compete with other projects in the state. It comes

down to how much money each region gets. We’ve

been fortunate we’ve received the largest award of funds several times since the program began. We’ve

lowered taxes for businesses and individuals, there’s

the Regional Council, tax credits and Start NY with

other incentives, and we can make it happen. To keep

it moving, we have to make sure they are diversified,

we have to be committed to that. “

Running for Mayor of Syracuse in 2017?

There has been a constant buzz about the possibility

of the former Onondaga County Legislator turned

Assemblyman running for the position of Syracuse

Mayor, He leans back in his chair laughing, “Folks

are considering me for the Mayor’s seat. I’m concen-

trating on the Assembly, I have to stay focused on the

job I’m elected to do and hopefully will be reelected

to do, and that’s my focus now. “

Page 3: Urban cny november 2014 edition rev1

Despite visits from surrogates like Vice president

Biden, Former President Bill Clinton and a ton of cam-

paign money U.S. Congressman Dan Maffei suffered a

stunning defeat as former Prosecu-

tor John Katko wins the race in a

landslide. Katko won beating Maf-

fei by a whopping 37,183 votes

with 99 % of precincts reporting

Katko 112,469 vs. Maf-

fei’s 75,286 that’s 20% in

a race that until recently

polls had Maffei up by as

much as 8%.

The amount of money

poured into Central New York by both parties

made this an ugly battle with commercial after

commercial chocked full of negativity. Central

New York voters rejected the tone of the cam-

paign as much as they were dismissive of na-

tional Democratic Party efforts to paint Katko

as a pending danger. It was already an uphill

race as voter turnout during a non-presidential

election year is traditionally low. Less than

50% of Onondaga County residents turned up

at the polls.

How did Katko Win?

Katko ran a campaign that struck a chord in

the minds of Central New York

Voters. He engaged in meeting

diverse groups and individuals as

he campaigned. The candidate

even hitting spots like Syracuse Pioneer Homes and Central Vil-

lage, areas democrats have taken

for granted and didn’t show a

presence. Speaking with a Demo-

cratic Party grass roots organizer

before the election “Katko has

been in the ‘hood we haven’t seen

Maffei.” It was clear from his tone that he was not

going to be getting the vote out for the incumbent Con-

gressman. Usually his operations are humming with

activity at this time of year, but not this now. There

was a lack of excitement and interest from the African-American community.

Katko starting from behind developed a list of what he

would do as a Congressman representing the area. It

was direct and simple run from the national playbook,

run against the Obama agenda. President Obama may

have won the City of Syracuse but the 24th Congres-

sional District is large including parts of Wayne Coun-

ty. Republicans and Independents went solidly for

Katko.

Katko also did something different; he listened to con-

stituents, held meetings around the entire district and

mounted a campaign

that conveyed a sense

of calm and compe-

tence. While Maffei’s

regular commercials

were warm and fuzzy

however, the attack

ads financed by out-

side groups painting

Katko as an

“extremist” didn’t

work in fact these ads

In the meantime the

outside group spon-

sored ads appeared

and the early lead

enjoyed by Maffei

quickly melted. Cen-

tral New York voters

have never experi-

enced such an avalanche of negative advertisements on

their televisions. As these ads hit Central New York

airwaves and cable it was perceived by voters as too

much, over the top causing people to resent the cam-

paign and the incumbent. The negative ads boomer-anged causing people to either stay at home or vote for

the challenger in droves. Coupled with the tone of the

race voters went the voting booth and demanded

change.

Katko tapped into the anger shared by many that the

economy may be improving but not for the average

Central New York resident. That Washington is bro-

ken and the only way to fix it is to go with the agenda

set forth by Mr. Katko. Now the election is over we’ll

have to wait and see how Mr. Katko manages his new

job as U.S. Congressman representing the 24th Con-

gressional District.

National Republican Congressional Committee Chair-

man Greg Walden released the following statement

today on John Katko’s victory in New York’s 24th

Congressional District:

“John Katko has spent his life giving back to his com-

munity and tonight he will continue to serve in Con-

gress. I cannot wait to serve with John, and the voters

of the 24th Congressional District should be proud

they sent such a proven fighter to serve them in Wash-

ington.”

NY Governor

It was a forgone conclusion that Andrew Cuomo was

going to cruse to re-election the question was by how

much? Cuomo bested chal-

lenger Rob Astorino 54%

versus 41%. The evenings

surprise was Howie Hawkins

receiving 5% of the vote

statewide ensuring the Green

Party’s line on future New

York

State

Ballots. This is the 22nd time

Hawkins has won and it’s clear

that the Green Party has an agen-da; their concept is not to be an

appendage of either political par-

ty. The Green Party is steadfast,

unapologetically progressive

championing positions that have

been dismissed by major political

parties.

New York State Assembly 128th

John Sharon (R-C-I) mounted an aggressive

campaign against incum-

bent Sam Roberts who

sailed into his 3rd term as

the 128th District Assem-

blyman. Issues included

constituent services, eco-nomic development and

legislative agenda items

that the republican candi-

date presented during his

campaign. However, it

wasn’t enough and Rob-

erts won 56.5% versus

43.5% for challenger John

Sharon.

It’s Over!

Katko Beats Maffei in Shocker and other Morning after Election Analysis

Page 4: Urban cny november 2014 edition rev1

vide new interstate-to-interstate connections be-

tween I-81 and I-690

V-2: New Viaduct Fully Improved to Current

V-2: New Viaduct Fully Improved to Current

Standards V-2 would provide a new viaduct that fully meets

all of today’s design standards. The cost of V-2 is

estimated at $1.438 B. Recommendation: PASS

Because this alternative would improve structural

and geometric design features; allow for enhanced

vehicular, bicycle, and pedestrian connectivity on

surface streets adjacent and under the viaduct; be able to be constructed with reasonable and typical

engineering practices; and would have a reasonable

cost, it is recommended to be carried forward for

further study.

V-3: New Viaduct with Substantial Design Im-

provements Alternative V-3 is very similar to V-2, but the new

viaduct’s curvature would be tightened at seven

locations, enabling about 25 percent fewer building

acquisitions than would be necessary under Alter-

native V-2. The cost of V-3 is estimated at $1.423 B. Recommendation: PASS

V-4: New Viaduct with Considerable Design Im-

provements Like Alternative V-3, V-4 would tighten the curva-

ture of the viaduct at seven spots; at five of these

spots, the curves would be tighter under V-4 than

they would be under V-3. With this tighter foot-

print, Alternative V-4 would necessitate about 40

percent fewer building acquisitions than would Al-

ternative V-2. The cost of V-4 is estimated at

$1.419 B. An animation of this alternative has been

prepared. Recommendation: PASS

Street-level Alternatives

STREET-LEVEL ALTERNATIVES-SL-1: Boule-

vard

All Street-level Alternatives would demolish the existing I-81 viaduct, which would be decommis-

sioned as an interstate, and make improvements to I

-481, which would be re-designated as I-81. Al-

mond Street would be reconstructed as a surface

street, with potential for urban design/aesthetic

treatments and bicycle/pedestrian amenities. The

Street-level Alternatives would fully meet today’s design standards. Like the new viaduct alternatives,

the street-level solutions would reconstruct the I-81/

I-690 interchange, providing connections in all di-

rections.

Initial traffic studies indicate that six lanes of traffic

are likely to be needed to maintain an efficient flow

of traffic between Downtown, University Hill, the

Southside, and other neighborhoods. There are

many ways to lay out a new boulevard along Al-

mond Street, which in some areas is nearly 200 feet

wide; this animation shows one of numerous con-

cepts. The width on Almond Street is sufficient to

accommodate vehicles, bicycles, pedestrians, wide park-like medians, and other improvements. The

Boulevard would cost approximately $1.047 B. Recommendation: PASS

SL-2: One-Way Almond Street and Other Local

Street(s) Under this alternative, Almond Street would carry

one-way, northbound traffic from Harrison Street to

the connection with I-690. South of Harrison Street,

Almond Street would be a two-way street. Other

street(s)–for example, Townsend Street or Clinton

Street–would be used by southbound traffic. One

concept of this alternative is shown in this anima-

tion. Because traffic would be routed to other local

streets, Almond Street could have fewer than six travel lanes, which would shorten crosswalks. SL-2 would cost approximately $1.067 B. Recommendation: PASS

SL-3: Two-Way Almond Street and Other Local

Street(s) Alternative SL-3 is similar to SL-2 in that it would

route traffic to Almond and other local street(s).

However, under SL-3 these streets would carry two

-way traffic. SL-3 would cost approximately $1.067

B. Recommendation: PASS

COMMON FEATURES OF ALL ALTERNA-

TIVES The Viaduct and Street-level Alternatives would

incorporate several other potential highway, bicy-

cle, and pedestrian improvements. These common

features are described below.

Improving the I-81/I-690 Interchange (Click for

better view)

All alternatives would include full reconstruction of

the I-81/I-690 interchange, with modifications to

increase capacity, improve highway safety, and

improve vehicle maneuvers onto and off the high-

ways.

Reconstruction also would include the addition of

two connections that are missing in the existing

interchange: a ramp between southbound I-81 and

westbound I-690, and a ramp between eastbound I-690 and northbound I-81.

Improving Access along I-690 Additional modifications to the existing I-690 inter-

changes at West Street and Teall Avenue are also

being considered.

The West Street interchange (Exit 11) would be

reconfigured to allow for the new ramps between I-81 and I-690. Either the existing, elevated ramps

over the highway would be improved, or the ramps

would be replaced with a signalized, street-level

intersection.

The Teall Avenue (Exit 14)/I-81 interchange

would be modified to simplify traffic movements

and decrease congestion, thereby improving access

to University Hill. NYSDOT is studying various

routes to determine how to best improve connec-

tions from Teall Avenue to University Hill. These

improvements would decrease commute times and

help reduce traffic volumes at the I-81/I-690 inter-

change and at interchange 18 (Harrison Street/

Adams Street) on I-81.

Improving Access along I-81 Additional interchange improvements along I-81 are under consideration to improve northern and

southern access to the highway. South of Down-

town, new ramps are being considered at MLK East

or Burt Street to reduce congestion at the Adams

Street/Almond Street intersection and provide a

potential alternate route to the Carrier Dome. North

of Downtown, ramp improvements are being con-

sidered at the Route 370 (Park Street) and Route

298 (Court Street) interchanges to improve safety

and traffic flow.

Enhancements for Pedestrians and Bicycles

Under all alternatives, safety and connectivity

would be improved on Almond Street, not only for motorists but also for pedestrians and bicyclists.

Pedestrian walkways and bike lanes would be clear-

ly defined with pavement markings, color, or aes-

thetic treatments to promote driver awareness of

pedestrians and bicycles. Bollards, medians, and

extensions of the sidewalk at street corners would

enhance safety at crossing locations.

Project Alternatives Considered During Scoping

No Build Alternative – PASS

Viaduct Alternatives

V-1: Rehabilitation -FAIL

V-2: New Viaduct Fully Improved to Current

Standards -PASS

V-3: New Viaduct with Substantial Design Im-

provements -PASS

(Continued from page 1)

(Continued on page 5)

Page 5: Urban cny november 2014 edition rev1

V-4: New Viaduct with Considerable Design Improve-

ments -PASS

V-5: New Stacked Viaduct -FAIL

Street-level Alternatives

SL-1: Boulevard -PASS

SL-2: One-way Traffic on Almond Street and Other

Local Street(s) -PASS

SL-3: Two-way Traffic on Almond Street and Other

Local Street(s) -PASS

Tunnel Alternatives

T-1: Almond Street Tunnel (MLK East to Butternut

Street) -FAIL

T-2: Almond Street Tunnel (MLK East to Genesee

Street) -FAIL

T-3: Townsend Street Tunnel -FAIL

T-4: Tunnel on Eastern Alignment (81’ Below Syra-

cuse) -FAIL

Depressed Highway Alternatives

DH-1: Depressed Highway (Adams Street to Butternut

Street) -FAIL

DH-2: Depressed Highway (Adams Street to Genesee

Street) -FAIL

Other Alternatives

O-1: Western Bypass -FAIL

O-2: West Street/Salt City Circuit -FAIL

The alternatives marked “PASS” in green are recom-

mended for further study. The alternatives marked

“FAIL” in red are not recommended for further study

due to one or more of the following: high cost, long

construction time, loss of cross street connections and

substantial property acquisitions.

(Continued from page 5 )

Page 6: Urban cny november 2014 edition rev1

Empire Expo Center-NYS Fairgrounds

581 State Fair Blvd.

Syracuse, NY 13209

Saturday, November 8, 2014

10:00AM – 3:00PM

An event to honor and thank our veterans.

Parade at noon; Expo 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Center of

Progress Building

There will be a job fair as well as an area for kids to

enjoy themselves. Come view the display on Patton's

Ghost Army. The ceremony to honor the veterans will

also feature the West Point Drill Team.

This event will be hosted by Assemblyman William

Magnarelli

Sampling Syracuse Food Tours

Armory Square

South Franklin and Walton Streets

Syracuse, NY 13202

Saturday, April 19, 2014 – Saturday, Novem-

ber 8, 2014

Repeats every Saturday

12:00PM – 3:00PM

Walking Food Tours of Downtown Syracuse!

Sampling Syracuse Food Tours will provide you with a

delicious and unique way to discover Downtown Syra-

cuse. Our 3 hour walking tour includes stops at award

winning restaurants where participants will sample

local fare as well as visit and learn about cultural and

historic landmarks.

August Wilson's The Piano Lesson

Syracuse Stage

820 East Genesee Street

Syracuse, NY 13210

Wednesday, October 22, 2014 – Sunday, No-

vember 9, 2014

Repeats every Sunday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday,

Saturday

Disney Live! Mickey's Musical Festival

The Oncenter War Memorial Arena

800 S. State St.

Syracuse, NY 13202

Sunday, November 9, 2014

1:00pm, 4:00pm, 7:00pm

Mickey Mouse and friends rock the world with the

stars from The Little Mermaid, Aladdin and Disney/

Pixar's Toy Story in their new touring show Disney

Live! Mickey's Musical Festival. Disney hits are re-

mixed to the hottest sounds of today featuring hip hop,

swing, reggae, rock, country and much more! The

irresistible lineup of performers, including Mickey,

Minnie, Donald and Goofy; Ariel, Sebastian and Ursu-

la; Jasmine, Aladdin and Genie; and Woody, Buzz and

Jessie; are among the more than 25 Disney stars fea-

tured in this jam session fit for the entire family! You

can't resist dancing, singing, playing your air-guitar

and laughing with this band of characters! Come join

them at Disney Live! Mickey's Musical Festival for a

lively concert experience guaranteed to deliver enough

rockin' memories to last a lifetime.

Tickets are available at the Solvay Bank Box Office at

The Oncenter (760 S. State Street), charge by phone

(315.435.2121) or online via Ticketmaster.com

Veteran's Day Readin: Moral Injury Among Veterans

ArtRage Gallery 505 Hawley Avenue Syracuse, NY 13203

Tuesday, November 11, 2014

7:00PM – 9:00PM

Join the Syracuse Veterans’ Writing Group and the

Moral Injury Project of Syracuse University’s Hen-

dricks Chapel for a reading of nonfiction and poetry on the topic of Moral Injury among VeteransMilitary per-

sonnel serving in war are confronted with ethical and

moral challenges, most of which are navigated success-

fully because of effective rules of engagement, train-

ing, leadership, and the purposefulness and coherence

that arise in cohesive units during and after various

challenges. However, even in optimal operational con-

texts, some combat and operational experiences can

inevitably transgress deeply held beliefs that undergird

a service member’s humanity. Transgressions can arise

from individual acts of commission or omission, the

behavior of others, or by bearing witness to intense

human suffering or the grotesque aftermath of battle.

An act of serious transgression that leads to serious

inner conflict because the experience is at odds with

core ethical and moral beliefs is called moral injury.

–Maguen and Litz, “Moral Injury in Veterans of War”

PTSD Research Quarterly, U.S. Department of Veteran

Affairs

Readers: Doug D’Elia, Air Force Medic, Vietnam Vet-

eran, Len Fallis, Army, OIF Veteran, Tim Hansen,

Army, OEF Veteran, Jennifer Jeffery, Coast Guard

Veteran, Bob Marcuson, Army, Vietnam Veteran, Pete McShane, Special Forces Green Beret Medic, Vietnam

Veteran, Marissa Mims, Daughter of a Vietnam Veter-

an, Don Western, Vietnam Veteran, Marine Corps.

(Continued on page 11)

Page 7: Urban cny november 2014 edition rev1

Access to Capital: Food, Beverage, and Agricultural Enterprises

November 18, 2014

The Community Relations Division of the

Federal Reserve Bank of New York and U.S. Small Business Administration are co-sponsoring a technical assistance workshop

for food, beverage, and agricultural enter-

prises in Upstate New York interested in learning

about traditional and alternative sources of financing. Attendees will hear from lenders on a wide range of

topics, including which types of financing are most

appropriate for their needs, what lenders look for in

potential borrowers, alternatives to traditional bank

loans, tips on improving their chances for success,

and available opportunities and financing tools for

expansion to international markets. There will be a

resource expo held after the workshop.

Tuesday, November 18

New York State Fairgrounds, Empire Room

581 State Fair Blvd.

Syracuse, NY 13209

EVENT DETAILS

AGENDA

Tuesday, November 18th

New York State Fairgrounds, Empire Room

8:00 - 8:30 am - Welcome

B.J. Paprocki, Syracuse District Director,

U.S. Small Business Administration

Shira Gans, Program and Relationship Di-

rector, Federal Reserve Bank of NY

8:40 - 9:30 am - Traditional Sources of Capital

Tom Cosgrove, Vice President, Commercial

Lending Unit, Farm Credit East,

Christy Marshall, Farm Loan Chief, USDA

Farm Service Administration (FSA)

Gary Pereira, Business Programs Specialist

& State Energy Coordinator - USDA Rural

Development (RD)

Dave Reaske, Vice President, New York

Business Development Corp

Peggy Adams, Executive Director, Greater

Syracuse Business Development Corp

Lee DeAmicis, Business Banking Regional

Manager, M&T Bank

Moderator: Valerie Shoudy, Lender Rela-tions Specialist, U.S. Small Business Ad-

ministration

9:30 - 10:20 am -

Alternative Sources of Capital

Derek Deneckla, Founder, Food Shed Inves-

tors NY, Slow Money NYC

Brian Weiner, Business Development, Bibby

Financial Services (Midwest), Inc.

Seth Mulligan, Vice President, Innovation

Services, The Tech Garden

Brian Pincelli, Principal Planner, Central NY

Regional Planning and Development Board

Andrew Fish, Executive Director, Cayuga

Economic Development Agency

Moderator: Chris Fowler, Executive Direc-

tor, Syracuse First

10:20 - 10:40 am

Networking Break

10:40 - 10:55 am Rob Simpson, President & CEO,

Centerstate CEO

10:55 – 11:45 am Global Access: Export Financing +

Services

John Tracy, International Trade Specialist,

U.S. Department of Commerce

Dan Duffy, Vice President, J.P Morgan

Global Trade and Loan Products

Kathryn Bamberger, Industrial International

Development Representative, NYS Empire

State Development

Gregory Smith, Regional Director-Eastern

Region, Export-Import Bank of the U.S.

Mary Hoffman, Associate State Director,

NYS Small Business Development Center

Daniel Rickman, District International Trade

Officer, U.S. Small Business Administration

Moderator: Steven King, Executive Director,

Central New York International Business

Alliance

11:45-11:50 am Closing Remarks

11:50 - 1:00 pm - Resource Expo + Networking

Sponsors: Federal Reserve Bank of New York and

U.S. Small Business Administration

How should you structure your company?

Sole- proprietorship, Corporation, Limited liability company, Not-for-profit? Our Intro to Business Start-Up and Fast Track to Business Start-Up courses take you through the steps of discerning the best business structure for your business idea.

call 315-498-6070, email: [email protected] or click here to register for a class today.

Serving Cayuga, Cortland, Madison, Onondaga, Oswego, and Seneca Counties

New Class! How to use So-cial Media to Grow Your Small Business Instructor: Amy Wyant of www.techgeekery.com

Learn techniques and tools to build your online pres-ence and develop a sustainable user base.

We will cover setting up a social media marketing plan, discuss different platforms and why or why not to use them, what to post, tools to help you post, best practices and resources.

January 21, 2015 9am-12pm

Mulroy Hall

4926 Onondaga Road

Onondaga Community College, Syracuse

Cost: $55 To register: Call 315-498-6070 or Email [email protected] or here

November 2014 Upcoming Classes 3 Day Fast Track to Business Start-Up

$125

Nov 18, 20, 25

This course may also be taken to satisfy the require-

ments for SEAP

2-Hour Introduction to Business Start-Up

$30 Nov 19

For more information or to register:

Call: 315-498-6070 Email: [email protected]

Online: www.onondagasbdc.org

Page 8: Urban cny november 2014 edition rev1

R&B Legend

Freddie

Jackson to

Appear at the

Landmark

Theater

November

14th R&B Legend Freddie Jackson to

Appear at the Landmark Novem-

ber 14th doors open at 7 pm,

ShowTime 8 pm. with perfor-

mances by T-Shaw & UAD for

tickets call the Box Office 475-7979. Freddie Jackson emerges back onto the music scene to embark on a major

comeback this fall before formally announcing a 30+year music career retirement.

The R&B icon that became famous for dominating the Billboard charts with over

ten #1 hits in the late 80’s and 90’s, has announced he is currently in the studio

finalizing the production on his 12th studio album. The 12-track album “Finer with

Time” is set for release in early 2015 through Climax Entertainment and

InGrooves.

This will be Jackson’s final body of work that will be dedicated to some of the late

R&B Heroes of all time; Whitney Houston, Luther Vandross, Gerald Levert, Aali-

yah, and more. At press time Jackson state’s “Being hailed as a living legend and

having one of my all-time hit records inducted into the Library of Congress, is

enough for me. I do believe I have made a tremendous impact on R&B and my

work here is done. That’s why it’s also important for me to pay my respects to

some of the R&B angels that left here before their time was up.”

Label representatives report that Freddie is preparing to hit the road and take center

stage on an International tour dubbed as the “Finer with Time” tour, in effort to

promote the release of his new album. A portion of the proceeds from the tour will

benefit the H.O.P.E. for Cancer Patients & Families organization.

Preparing to return to the R&B Billboard charts, Jackson’s new single, “Love &

Satisfaction” is a refreshing new take on Jackson’s soulful love ballad’s of yester

year that catapulted his career to include 4 Grammy Nominations and 1 American

Music Award. The single will be officially released on Itunes on August 26th. Pro-duction on Jackson’s final album was recorded in the Dominican Republic and in

his hometown Harlem. Jackson assert’s “ I really wanted to usher in a new sound

that would awaken my loyal fans and showcase my love for R&B.” Jackson’s new

production team included platinum recording producers that have worked with the

likes of Usher, Two-Chainz, Jagged Edge, Marsha Ambrosius, Anthony Hamilton,

and more.

Syracuse Stage Cast of Hairspray to Sing at Destiny USA

(Syracuse, NY)—The Syracuse Stage cast of Hairspray will sing on the first level

of the Canyon Area of Destiny USA on Saturday, November 8 at 2 p.m. Presented

in partnership with iHeart Media (formerly Clear Channel), the cast will be intro-

duced by A.J. from Hot 107.9. Adding to the festivities, November 8 is the first

full day that Santa will be at Destiny USA to meet and take photos with children,

also in the Canyon Area.

“Piled bouffant high with laughter, romance, and deliriously tuneful songs,” Hair-

spray is the hit Broadway musical with 60s era music and dance. Hairspray runs

November 28 through January 4 at Syracuse Stage, co-produced with Syracuse

University’s Department of Drama. The Destiny USA event on November 8 will

be the cast’s first public performance.

“They’ll knock your socks off,” said Timothy Bond, producing artistic director of

Syracuse Stage. “This is an amazingly talented cast with huge voices. They’ve

been hard at work rehearsing and this is a great opportunity to share with the public

a preview of the show.”

Songs to be performed at Destiny USA include “Good Morning Baltimore,” “It

Takes Two,” “I Know Where I’ve Been,” and “You Can’t Stop the Beat.” Featured

performers include Lila Coogan (as Penny), Mary Digangi (as Tracy), Austin

Holmes (as Seaweed), Troy Hussmann (as Link), and Aurelia Williams (as Mo-

tormouth).

Also in the Canyon Area, Destiny USA will be collecting donations of unwrapped

new clothes, toys and pet supplies for Stuff the Truck, presented by Coca-Cola.

Businesses and community members are encouraged to help “stuff” a Coca-Cola

truck with donations that will be given to Big Brothers Big Sisters, Ronald

McDonald House, and Humane Association. Destiny USA is accepting donations

on Mondays through Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 9:30 p.m. and Sundays from 11

a.m. to 6 p.m.

Quick Facts:

The 2002 Broadway production won 8 Tony Awards and ran for 2,500 performances.

The Corny Collins Show is based on the real-life Buddy Deane Show, a competitor

to American Bandstand.

David Rockwell, renowned architect and Syracuse University alumnus, designed the

Broadway set.

Composer Marc Shaiman wrote “Let Me Be Your Star” and other original songs for the hit

TV show Smash.

Page 9: Urban cny november 2014 edition rev1

Michele Norris, National Public Radio host and special

correspondent and creator of the Race Card Project

(which involves people constructing six-word essays

about race, which they then write on postcards), will

be the keynote speaker for Syracuse University’s 30th

annual Martin Luther King Jr. Celebration,

“Remember. Celebrate. Act.” on Sunday, Jan. 18,

2015, in the Carrier Dome. The event is the largest

University-sponsored event in the United States to

celebrate King.

“We are thrilled and honored to have Michele Norris

as our 30th anniversary keynote speaker,” says Sylvia

Langford, associate vice president for student affairs

and chair of the University Martin Luther King Jr. Cel-

ebration Committee. “Her outstanding body of work

epitomizes this year’s theme: ‘Remember. Celebrate. Act.’ Ms. Norris’ very relevant message to us will

serve as a springboard for the work that lies ahead. Get

ready to be moved to action!”

The evening program, which will include the presenta-

tion of the 2015 Unsung Hero Awards, music by a

community choir and entertainment by student per-

formers, begins at 5:30 p.m. and is free and open to the

public. Dinner precedes the program at 4:30 p.m.,

doors open at 4 p.m. Tables ($300) and individual tick-

ets ($30) for the general public will go on sale Dec. 1

and are available by contacting Ginny Yerdon at Hen-

dricks Chapel at 315-443-5044 or [email protected]. Student tickets are $15 for students without meal plans

and one dinner charge for students with meal plans.

Student tickets will also go on sale Dec. 1 and will be

available at all residence hall main desks, at dining

centers during meal times, at Hendricks Chapel and

online at http://www.carrierdome.com (click on stu-

dent tab) until Jan. 5. For questions, call Hendricks

Chapel at 315-443-5044. American Sign Language (ASL) interpretation and

Communication Access Real-Time will be available at

the event. To request dietary or other accommodations,

contact Ginny Yerdon at Hendricks Chapel at 315-443

-2901 or [email protected] by Monday, Jan. 12.

A MLK Community Celebration will be held on Satur-

day, Jan. 17, from noon-4 p.m. at Fowler High School, 227 Magnolia St. in Syracuse. Community youth will

be honored at this celebration.

Norris is an award-winning journalist with more than

two decades of experience. She previously served as

co-host of NPR’s newsmagazine "All Things Consid-ered," public radio’s longest-running national program,

with Robert Siegel and Melissa Block. Norris began

hosting the program in December 2002 and stepped

away from "All Things Considered" duties during the

2012 presidential campaign. While on sabbatical, Nor-

ris spent time traveling the country developing two

successful initiatives: The Race Card Project and

NPR’s "Backseat Book Club."

In September 2010, Norris released her first book,

“The Grace of Silence, A Memoir,” which focuses on

how America talks about race in the wake of Barack

Obama’s presidential election and explores her own family’s racial legacy. Using her memoir as a catalyst

for conversation, Norris has addressed thousands of

students through campus “One Book” programs, en-

couraging discussions about the history of race rela-

tions in the U.S.

Before joining NPR, Norris was a correspondent for

ABC News from 1993-2002. As a contributing corre-

spondent for the “Closer Look” segments on World

News Tonight with Peter Jennings, she reported exten-

sively on education, inner city issues, the nation’s drug

problem and poverty. She has also reported for the Washington Post, Chicago Tribune and Los Angeles

Times.

Norris has received many awards for her work, includ-

ing the 2010 Alfred I. DuPont-Columbia University

Award for “The York Project: Race and the 2008

Vote” (co-hosted with Steve Inskeep); the 2009 Jour-

nalist of the Year award from the National Association

of Black Journalists (NABJ); and the NABJ’s 2006

Salute to Excellence Award for her coverage of Hurri-

cane Katrina. She was honored with Ebony Maga-

zine’s Eighth Annual Outstanding Women in Market-

ing and Communications Award in 2007 and was named one of Essence Magazine’s “25 Most Influen-

tial Black Americans” in 2009.

NPR Host and Author Michele Norris to Keynote

30th Annual MLK Celebration

A conference to support the leadership development

and celebrate the contributions of professional wom-

en of color, in an environment created just for them.

Friday, November 14, 2014

from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm

Doubletree at Hilton Hotel

East Syracuse, NY 13057

You Can’t Fail is an unforgettable, one of a kind,

strategically designed multicultural leadership learn-

ing environment for professional women of color and

those who support them. Each conference educates,

inspires, and connects women who are interested in

improving their leadership by focusing on the compe-

tencies of confidence, competence, courage and

calm.

In its 6th year, the 2014 You Can't Fail Confer-

ence theme is:

“Celebrating the Unexpected Leader: Skills to Help You Excel in Leadership”

Conference Ticket: $75.00

(plus administrative fee )

The event features workshops, educational presenta-

tions, inspiring words from regional women, vendors

live musical performances and a panel discussion led

by Gwen Webber McLeod, focusing on the joys and

challenges of being the "Unexpected Leader."

Conference Agenda: 9:00am - 5:00pm

· Event Registration/Continental breakfast

· Shop Our Vendors

· Network

· Workshops

· Lunch

· Live Musical Performances

· Panel Discussion and Workshop Session

· Dance Party

Celebrating the Unexpected Leader

Panel Discussion:

Being the First and Only:

Karen Oxenreider, M&T Bank

Gaining and Sustaining Credibility as Woman Leader:

Evelyn Carter, Wegmans

Paying It Forward:

Keeping the Door Open for Unexpected

Leaders Following You:

Shannon Magari, Colden Corporation

Being Unexpected and a Young Profession-al:

Caeresa Richardson,

Eaton Corporation, Crouse Hinds Division

Page 10: Urban cny november 2014 edition rev1

No health insurance? Flu Vaccines are FREE for Onondaga County Residents!

Onondaga County Health Department will be offering Walk-In Flu Clinic Wednes-

day, Nov 19, 2014. Onondaga County’s Flu Clinic will be offered at the following

times; 10:00 am − 12:00 noon and 2:00 pm − 4:00 pm at the Onondaga County

Civic Center, 421 Montgomery Street, Syracuse. Room 30, Basement Level, this

clinic will serve those 6 months of age and older. If you have questions? Call 435-2000.

Key Facts about the Flu

What is the Flu (influenza)? The flu is a serious and contagious respiratory illness caused by the influenza vi-

ruses.

What are the Symptoms of Flu? Symptoms of flu may include:

Fever or feeling feverish

Chills

Cough

Sore throat

Runny or stuffy nose

Muscle or body aches

Headache

Fatigue

Occasionally vomiting and diarrhea

How is the flu spread? The flu is spread by droplets made when people with the

flu cough, sneeze or talk. Droplets can land in the

mouths or noses of people who are nearby. It can also

spread by people touching surfaces that have flu virus

on it and touching their eyes, nose or mouth.

Who is at highest risk of flu complications?

Children younger than 5, but especially children

younger than 2 years old

People 50 years of age and older

Pregnant women

People of any age with certain chronic medical con-

ditions

People who live in nursing homes and other long-term care facilities

How Can I Prevent the Flu?

The single best way to prevent the flu is to get a flu vac-

cine each season. Everyone over 6 months of age is rec-

ommended to get a flu vaccine each year. The flu vac-

cine is available in the traditional shot, and in nasal

spray form (FluMist®). Flu shots are available for per-

sons over 6 months of age. The flu nasal spray

(FluMist®) is available for healthy persons 2 through 49

years of age. People should get vaccinated every year

because immunity to influenza viruses decline over time

and circulating strains often change from year to year.

In addition to getting the flu vaccine, take extra hygiene

precautions to protect yourself and others from the flu:

Wash your hands often with warm water and soap

Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue or with

your arm when you sneeze or cough

Avoid close contact with anyone who is sick

If you do get sick with the flu, say home and away

from others for at least 24 hours after your fever is

gone

When should I get a Flu Vaccine? You should get your flu shot as soon as it becomes available each year, however,

there is benefit to getting the vaccine later as long as the flu is still circulating.

For more information about seasonal flu, please visit:

New York State Department of Health

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)

Health Onondaga County Offers Free Flu Clinic November 19th

Page 11: Urban cny november 2014 edition rev1

The Piano Lesson Community Partnerships during The Piano Lesson Feature Discussions, Ex-hibit, Student Matinees, and Live Music

Lights on the Lake Stroll

Onondaga Lake Park

106 Lake Drive

Liverpool, NY 13088

Wednesday, November 12, 2014

5:00PM – 9:00PM

Everyone is welcome to enjoy this special walking preview of Lights on the Lake before it opens to vehi-

cles only. The park will be open from 5-9pm and visi-

tors can choose to park at either the Wegmans Land-

ing, Salt Museum or Willow Bay lots. This is a great

opportunity to get some fresh air and exercise. Walkers

can cover as much of the two mile stretch as they de-

sire and should dress for the weather. Shuttle service

is not provided. Holiday characters will be on the trail

and refreshments will be available for sale. Cars are

not allowed on the trail for this special evening but will

be admitted to the show beginning Friday, November

14. We ask that you not bring dogs to this event but to

come on the following evening, Thursday, November

13 for the Lights on the Lake Dog Walk.

Art Gone Wild! Reception, Art Sale &

Auction

Rosamond Gifford Zoo

1 Conservation Place

Syracuse, NY 13204

Friday, November 21, 2014

6:00PM – 8:00PM

If you've ever wanted to purchase a piece of animal

artwork, now's your chance! Dozens of pieces created

by our zoo animals will be auctioned off in support of

the Rosamond Gifford Zoo chapter of the American

Association of Zoo Keepers. Light refreshments and

cash bar available.

Junior League Holliday Shoppes

Empire Expo Center-NYS Fairgrounds

581 State Fair Blvd.

Syracuse, NY 13209

Friday, November 14, 2014 –

Sunday, November 16, 2014

Friday 10:00am-7:00pm

Saturday 10:00am-6:00pm

Sunday 12:00-5:00pm

Holiday Shoppes, The Junior League of Syracuse,

Inc.’s three-day holiday marketplace, is known

throughout Central New York as a must-see shop-

ping destination. Holiday Shoppes attracts over

5,000 shoppers annually seeking our unique and

distinctive selection of merchants offering “boutique

shopping at its best.”

Proceeds from Holiday Shoppes are used to fund the

JLS’ community impact and leadership development

efforts in the greater Syracuse area

Lights on the Lake Dog Walk

Onondaga Lake

Park

106 Lake Drive

Liverpool, NY

13088

Thursday, Novem-

ber 13, 2014

5:00PM – 9:00PM

Dogs (and their parents) are welcome to enjoy this

special walking preview of Lights on the Lake before

it opens to vehicles only. The park will be open from 5

-9pm and visitors can choose to park at either the

Wegmans Landing, Salt Museum or Willow Bay lots.

This is a great opportunity to get some fresh air and

exercise. Walkers can cover as much of the two mile

stretch as they desire and should dress for the weather.

Shuttle service is not provided. Holiday characters

will be on the trail and refreshments for humans and

dogs will be available for sale. Cars are not allowed on

the trail for this special evening but will be admitted to

the show beginning Friday, November 14. Donations, of any amount, will be greatly appreciated

to benefit the Humane Association of CNY, a no-kill,

not-for-profit animal shelter, whose mission is to find

loving homes for the animals who need them.

Question Bridge: Syracuse, NY

The Work of Ellen Blalock

Community Folk Art Center

805 E. Genesee Street

Syracuse, NY 13202

Saturday, October 25, 2014 – Saturday,

December 13, 2014

Repeats every Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday,

Saturday

Tuesday-Friday 10:00 am- 5:00 pm

Saturday 11:00 am- 5:00 pm

Question Bridge: Black Males is an innovative trans-

media project, created by artists Chris Johnson and

Hank Willis Thomas, facilitates a dialogue between a

critical mass of Black men from diverse and contend-

ing backgrounds and creates a platform for them to

represent and redefine Black male identity in America.

CFAC will also be featuring a Syracuse based Ques-

tion Bridge featuring Black men of all ages a platform

to ask and candidly respond to questions that are rarely

discussed in public.

Question Bridge Syracuse: The Work of Ellen Blalock

explores the work of this multidisciplinary artist who

interrogates Black male identity and constructs a lay-

ered narrative addressing violence in the Black com-

munity.

Wednesday November 19th 10:00 am-12:00 pm and 2:00 pm—4:00 pm

Onondaga County Civic Center, Room 30, Basement Level

(Continued from page 6)

Page 12: Urban cny november 2014 edition rev1