Syracuse Architectural Digest: Invisible City

May 24th, 2013
Parkview Hotel
Alley: Parkview Hotel

Throwback Thursday: Make My Funk the P-Funk

May 23rd, 2013
Uncle Jams, Sir Nose, Mr. P. Funk, the Atomic Dogg: George Clinton is a man of many facets, each one funkier than the next.

Uncle Jams, Sir Nose, Mr. P-Funk, the Atomic Dog: George Clinton is a man of many facets, each one funkier than the next. He’s pictured here from a previous concert in the Carrier Dome.

Let the countdown begin…3 months until George Clinton returns to Syracuse for the New York State Fair.

Choose Your Own Adventure

May 23rd, 2013
Marilyn Higgins, VP of Community Engagement and Economic Development for Syracuse University

Marilyn Higgins, VP of Community Engagement and Economic Development for Syracuse University

Marilyn Higgins, along with Linda Dickerson Hartsock and Maarten Jacobs, spoke last week about how the University has used innovative design, neighborhood dialogue and unlikely coalitions (creative placemaking) to promote a climate of innovation in Syracuse. The event was held in the City Hall Commons Atrium.  Higgins discussed how the new narratives of the Near Westside Initiative and Connective Corridor have ignited confidence in how the city views itself.

Sowing Seeds

May 22nd, 2013
“To change a community, you have to change the soil.” – Ron Finley

I’d like to thank the students I had the chance to meet and work with at Westside Academy at Blodgett this year. We took a journey and learned from each other. After the first day I thought a lot about the Tony Danza Book,  I’d Like to Apologize to Every Teacher I Ever Had.

We did photo walks, technical research, contests and model shoots, and their skill levels continued to rise to the challenge. But soon I noticed that the children were teaching me as much about creativity and expression as I taught them about photography. Visiting the Westside neighborhood daily was an eye-opening experience. The assignment helped me become a better photographer and a better person.

Also, a special shout-out to Ms. Darby (the program director), Mr. Hicks (the principal), and Syracuse City School District alum Adrian Sicam (the multi-talented artist who allowed SIF to use his music for this piece).

Architectural Digest: Places & Spaces

May 20th, 2013
First English Lutheran Church-Altar

First English Lutheran Church-Altar

As part of the New York Landmark Conservancy’s Sacred Sites Open House on Saturday we were able to visit the First English Lutheran Church.  We were given a historical overview by the Hon. Karen Uplinger and heard their M.P. Moeller organ, which was played by Lee Johnston. The massive sandstone structure, located at James and Townsend Streets, was designed by Archimedes Russell, and also features prominent stained glass work by Henry Keck.
First English Lutheran Church-Story of Ruth in stained glass by Henry Keck

First English Lutheran Church-Story of Ruth in stained glass by Henry Keck

Inviting Participation

May 18th, 2013
Drs. Sheadric Barbra, Principal of Dr. King Elementary School in Syracuse speaks during the Syracuse City School Distric and Say Yes to Education Parent University on Saturday morning. His brother, education activist Zheadric Barbra is in the background. The event was held at the University United Methodist Church.

Dr. Sheadric Barbra, Principal of Dr. King Elementary School in Syracuse, shares part of his personal journey during the Syracuse City School District and Say Yes to Education’s Parent University on Saturday morning. His brother, education activist Dr. Zheadric Barbra is in the background. The event was held at the University United Methodist Church. The theme of the conference was “Getting Men Involved in Education.”

Happy Accidents

May 18th, 2013
LOFO Cafe/Bistro: Inside Out

LOFO Cafe/Bistro: Inside Out

A few months ago I ventured into Armory Square to revisit Om Boys Juice Bar, only to find it had closed. New owners were onsite and explained their concept.  I was skeptical and went for a smoothie.

Fast forward and (after numerous meals) LOFO, to me, may be the most underrated place in the city for flexitarian food.  Reminds me of a cross between a place in NYC that was called Pump and Juicy Lucy’s in San Francisco.

LOFO is definitely a great addition to Syracuse dining. I’m glad I stumbled upon it.

Here Comes the Neighborhood

May 17th, 2013
SALT District artists (and new neighbors) Juan Cruz and John Cardone (right) at the opening of Salt Quarters on Wyoming Street.

SALT District artists (and new neighbors) Juan Cruz and John Cardone (right) at the opening of Salt Quarters on Wyoming Street.

The Salt Quarters, a artist live/work space opened to the public on Wednesday.  The artists who will occupy the space are John Cardone and Brooklyn’s Peter Edlund.  The space is located along the Connective Corridor near the Delevan Center and the Lincoln Supply Building.  The neighborhood continues to attract photographers, writers, painters and sculptors.

Cardone, who was on hand mingling with visitors, said he doesn’t make art but rather makes things that need to be made.  His previous base of operation was at 601 Tully (aka the Treehouse) a few blocks away.

Salt Quarters: Interior

Salt Quarters: Interior

Throwback Thursday: Parade Season

May 16th, 2013
Downtown Style: Juneteenth Parade, Back in the Day

Downtown Style: Juneteenth Parade, Back in the Day

Syracuse Architectural Digest: Block Party

May 16th, 2013
The Ronald McDonald House (from East Genesee Street)

The Ronald McDonald House (from East Genesee Street)

The Ronald McDonald House of Central New York opened recently in a new building constructed along University Avenue. The former location was a block away on East Genesee Street.

The Ronald McDonald House (from University Avenue)

The Ronald McDonald House (from University Avenue)