Voices

Revamped Citizen Review Board helps residents address misconduct with police department Did you know the police department has a “customer satisfaction survey?” This questionnaire takes an unconventional approach by asking those who have been arrested to assess their experience with police officers. Police Chief Frank Fowler says it provides insight on how his department can become better. “Any findings are …

Hairstylist runs Mo’s Touch by day and studies engineering by night Geek and chic. It’s all in a day’s work — and school. “In some ways, I can say that I’m a geek, but in some ways, I can say that I’m chic,” said Monique Gaulden, who studies electrical engineering technology at Onondaga Community College. “It goes both ways. It …

Notes from The Rev. Glory Thomas Well, it’s that time of year again, when we offer thanks for all that The Lord has done. He has blessed many that have been able to bless others through their giving to those in need. Organizations such as the newly found CNY’s Christian Women’s Ministry Alliance, which has dived right into the  heart and …

Library patrons learn about different cultures thanks to state grant Using a state cultural programming grant, the Onondaga Free Library recently arranged for South Side residents to experience a “Festival of Nations.” Library officials hope to make the festival an annual event. The library brought together people from the Zen Center of Syracuse Hoen-ji and the Syracuse Polish Home. Representatives from …

Beauchamp Library offers variety of activities for students Even while the search is on for a branch manager, Beauchamp Branch Library’s many services are available for community members of all ages. The library hosts children’s activities and a GED program, and it also offers meeting places for local theater and gardening groups. On Halloween, the library will put on its …

Syracuse will hold its first-ever “Get Your Kids Rally” at the Kirk Park Pavilion this Sunday, Oct. 13.  The rally will run from 3 p.m. – 6 p.m. The goal: to bring the community together in a stand against street violence in Syracuse. Organizer Mary Nelson, of the Mary Nelson Youth Center, created the event  in response to the slaying …

PRPAC’s season premier set in the South Side When Ryan Johnson-Travis wanted to create a play based on the lived experiences of people that his actors knew, a beauty salon on the South Side seemed like the best setting. But when talking with his mother, whom he says is always his inspiration, she urged him to set it in a …

New director of the YWCA teaches life skills to keep girls heading on the right path One look at Fanny Villarreal’s kitchen, and it’s clear that the mother of two is proud of her kids. Their artwork and examples of good grades line the cabinets, with more added every day. “My sons are the light of my life, very active, …

Local activist Phil Prehn got his start as a student protester As Phil Prehn drove down Interstate 90 from Syracuse to Albany for a concert, he had the radio playing full blast. He was gearing up to see his favorite artist, Bruce Springsteen. “I’m not saying he’s a god, but maybe a prophet,” Prehn said. Prehn has been to more …

Through his writing, Dale Harp is on a mission to educate youth on making the right choices When you meet Dale Harp you can’t help but want to pull up a chair and listen to his life story. His demeanor is so warm and inviting you feel you’ve known him your entire life. Having gone through some rather difficult times …