In our upcoming February print issue, one recent event showcased in a photo spread is an effort by volunteers last year to plant trees in the Strathmore neighborhood.  Read the story that follows to learn how city trees help save tax dollars and reduce pollution. Next we follow up with Rashawn Sullivan, who was featured in the Winter issue, and …

Start It course inspires students who have a wide range of creative entrepreneurship ideas

Nominated by Anton Ninno, fellow teacher at the Southside Academy Charter School Q: What did it feel like when you became a father? A: It was a rush of excitement and the feeling that I have to be responsible all the time now because this little person is depending on me. Q: What can you share about your children? A: …

South Side figured prominently in mayor’s speech

Onondaga Citizens League holds study session with panel of nonprofits

Swearing in of Syracuse’s new African-American judge

Counselor teaches young men the value of embracing their visions When Halston Canty talks about his work on the South Side, he puts the adolescents first. “I have the opportunity to see these young men grow. I have the opportunity to contribute something positive and save their life,” Canty said. “It helps me because I’m older than them and I’m …

Famed Ethiopian filmmaker Haile Gerima visited Syracuse in April 2003 to screen his motion picture, “Sankofa,” which he directed 10 years before. Its plot revolves around an African-American model named Mona. The initial scenes show her doing a fashion photo shoot in Ghana, where she runs into the Divine Drummer, who encourages her to return to the African roots of …

Workshop explores native birds and environmental effects on community

Initiative works to make low-income homes environmentally friendly Tanesha Keene had lived in a collapsing and lead- contaminated home on Marguerite Avenue with her two sons, 10 and 2, since August 2015. Without a working furnace and little insulation, the family lacked protection in winter. The basement contained asbestos and a hazardous tangle of electrical wiring that reduced energy efficiency …