The Dunbar Center reopens, looks to start a new era for residents One of the South Side’s oldest institutions has opened its doors after a short downtime, bringing back a wealth of opportunities for residents of all ages. Ever since its founding nearly a century ago, the Dunbar Association, a community center at 1453 S. State St., has provided refuge …

Two local designers use their personal styles to instill confidence Ever thought about making clothes, but were scared of what people might think of the style? I would say go for it. Be a fashion designer! There are many people in Syracuse who make clothes, and it started with a dream and conquering their vision. Two people in particular, Ron …

Chef’s passion shows through to community she feeds Wanda Adair has a relationship with food that is as deep as her famous three-cheese macaroni pan in the kitchen of Simone’s Soul Food. The 58-year-old and her son, David Hills, have been the operators of Simone’s for more than a year. The restaurant, named after Hills’ wife, Letisha Simone Johnson, has …

Blowin’ in the Wind uses its talents to raise money for children Tony Baird is a military service veteran and an entrepreneur. He owns Tony Baird Electronics, Inc. The company provides audio-visual and Internet technology solutions for defense, transportation and medical companies. He is also a musician. Tony plays bass for a local band called Blowin’ in the Wind (BITW). …

McKinley Park Supporters invite the community to join them to make decorations for the McKinley Park annual wildlife tree. The group will use natural items such as peanut butter and birdseed rolled onto pine cones along with other treats for woodland creatures to decorate a tree for resident squirrels and other critters to enjoy during the winter months. The tree …

100 Black Men of Syracuse invites the parents, guardians and family members of fifth, sixth, seventh and eighth graders, as well as local educators, to come to an informational town hall meetings for an introduction to an educational program the group is launching in January. The 100 Black Men Saturday Academy will be a free, weekly academic and cultural enrichment …

Thanksgiving Week assistance needed for 3,670 meals Meals on Wheels of Syracuse needs more volunteers during the holidays and winter season. Thanksgiving week staffing is falling short compared to previous years and many regular volunteers are headed south for the winter. “We’re normally fully staffed with volunteers for Thanksgiving week by now,” said Mason Kaufman, executive director of Meals on …

Two groups met in the cathedral of a local church Thursday evening in the hopes that both could gain a better understanding of the relationship between them. “The Police and You” is a planned ongoing forum to join the Syracuse Police Department and South Side community in conversation and to be held monthly at various churches, the first meeting which …