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February 2011 ● urbancny.com

Meet Mr. Baye Muhammad Mayor appoints new Commissioner of Parks, Recreation and Youth

...see p. 2

The Hall Monitor

Judge McKinney’s retirement: A loss for Syracuse Page 3

Did Conrad Murray kill Michael Jackson?

Page 3 Serving Upstate urban communities since 1989.

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Feb. 2011

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Meet Mr. Baye Muhammad Reflecting on New Commissioner of Parks, Recreation and Youth appointed

By Ken Jackson Mayor Stephanie Miner has appointed Baye pronounced (bey-yeh)Muhammad, 38, as Commissioner of the Department of Parks, Recreation and Youth Programs, effective Jan. 18, 2011.

“I am thrilled to welcome Baye to our team,” Mayor Miner said. “He has a deep background in constituent service and working with youth, understands the needs and challenges of the Syracuse community and is committed to providing excellent customer service. I am confident he will provide the leadership the Parks Department needs.”

Muhammad inherits a department that has the task of providing much more than the department title suggests. Aquatics, Adult Athletics, Dog Control, Forestry, Golf, Ice Skating, Planning and Development, Senior Recreation ProPublished monthly by: grams, Special URBAN CNY Events and Youth Recreation ProSend mail c/o Eagle Media grams, 172 mu2501 James St., Suite 100 nicipally owned Syracuse, NY 13206 and maintained parks, fields, inFor advertising and editorial: active cemeter(315) 422-7778 i e s , me d i ans / (315) 434-8883 -- Fax traffic islands kjackson@urbancny.com (most of which Kenneth Jackson – are landscaped Editor and Publisher and contribute to neighborhood Doug Campbell – greenspace), and Designer natural areas.

Mu ham ma d Walt Shepperd – is a graduate of Senior Editor the University of the District of Marjory W. Wilkins – Columbia, with a Contributing Photographer degree in political science. In 2002, Printed by: Muhammad beCommunity Media Group LLC came an outreach 2501 James St., Suite 100 and admissions Syracuse, NY 13206 counselor with Job Corps, where No part of this publication may be he recruited and reproduced without written permission. counseled youth The opinions expressed herein are not necessarily the opinions of Community with the goal of Media Group LLC or Eagle Newspapers. helping them obtain a high school

diploma, GED or vocational training.

In 2007, Muhammad became regional coordinator for the department of minority information services for the New York State Senate Minority Conference. In that role, he conducted issue research and analyzed legislative proposals as to how they impacted communities in Upstate New York. Muhammad became regional director for the New York State Senate Majority Conference in Central New York in 2009.

In 2010, Muhammad was promoted to upstate director of the New York State Senate for the department of majority information services. In this role, he is responsible for managing regional offices in Buffalo and Syracuse.

In his role in the New York State Senate, Muhammad helped secure funding for the Operation Snug anti-gun violence prevention initiative in the cities of Buffalo, Rochester and Syracuse. Muhammad currently serves on the Joint Schools Construction Board. He has volunteered with the project “Helping to Empower Incarcerated Young People” through the Onondaga County Justice Center and with Jazz in the City.

Muhammad strikes a cautious yet confident tone in his assessment of the job that lies ahead, “I’m going to try hard, I know the country and the state, we’re dealing with some tough times but we’re going to be aggressive in trying to find different avenues rather then waiting around to see what our part of the state budget will be, we have to take that extra step.”

In dealing with youth the new commissioner is clearly concerned, “It’s a complex problem there are so many different entities involved with raising children. I believe the village has broken down, because you have uncles that are absent aunts that are gone, everybody’s like ‘well that’s your problem’ I didn’t grow up in a society like that. I think that’s what’s missing.”

On taking on the responsibilities of Parks, Recreation and Youth Programs the new Commissioner emphasizes the importance of the delivery of services the department provides, ”Our responsibility is huge when it comes to providing services, but I think with that I would like to get parents more involved in the responsibility part.”

“I’ve worked with children I have children so you can have a child for six, eight hours they’re great. Fine, but that child still has to go home into whatever environment there is and if it’s not positive then they have to adapt to that environment.

They have to adapt to the environment that they’re in.”

“What I’d like to do is have children tell us what they want in their park.” Muhammad explains how he believes in “wraparound” services which include parents in the park as important as the participation of the child. Pausing and perhaps thinking out loud he continues, “How can we bring families together …even if families aren’t together how can we come together for the children?

During his first two weeks on the job Mr. Muhammad hit the ground running holding meetings with different divisions and getting to know staff, he’s reportedly doing a lot of listening.

When asked what would he have to say to the residents of Syracuse, “ I thank the mayor for this appointment and the challenge that I’m going to have. I would ask the public to be patient, to be involved, be involved in your parks to always be involved in some way.”

Martin Luther King Day 2011 Danny Donohue CSEA President The recent horrific events in Tuscon have saddened us all. However, from every tragedy lessons can be learned and the attention given by many to the contribution of violent rhetoric as cause for the shootings may be just the opening to bring civility back to our public discourse.

I am further bolstered by the genuine joy expressed by U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand in her account of the awakening of her friend and colleague Congresswoman Gabrielle Giffords Martin Luther King, Jr. during a visit to the shooting victim’s hospital room.

Add to this the eloquent and poignant comments of Congresswoman Giffords’ intern Daniel Hernandez who is credited with saving her life and being called a hero. He said, “We must reject the title of ‘hero’ and reserve it for those who deserve it, and those who deserve it are the first responders and the public servants and the people who have made sure they have dedicated their lives to helping others.”

What a stark contrast to those who have vilified public servants. It’s time to bring honor back to those who choose to dedicate their working lives to bringing service to others. The school bus driver, the nurse, the caseworker and the sanitation worker and all who toil every day deserve our respect for committing to helping bring quality to our lives and communities.

On this Martin Luther King day let’s all take a moment to reflect on what is truly important and pledge to treat each other with courtesy and consideration even when we disagree. We owe that much to the real meaning of this holiday and those who have suffered so greatly in Tuscon.

Danny Donohue is the president of the 300,000 member CSEA – New York’s leading union.

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Opinion

Feb. 2011

Judge McKinney’s retirement a loss for Syracuse Twenty-four years ago when Langston McKinney, now 65, took office as City Court Judge, his election was not greeted warmly by some skeptics in law enforcement, who tagged him as being too Jackson “liberal.”

However, over his 24-year judicial career serving on the Syracuse City Court bench, he reduced their fears and helped guide the court away from its conservative past to infuse more justice in the local judicial system.

Judicial success is difficult to assess when most who face a judge could give a damn

Ken

The Hall Monitor

Judge Langston McKinney

on what he looked like or what his or her life situation is.

But judges bring their life experience and perceptions to the bench with them. Only the statue of Lady Justice, ensconced in every court

house, is blindfolded.

Ya’ll know that justice isn’t blind.

For the first time in history, the African-

American community in Syracuse could actually see a judge as a human being, not just an African-American judge.

Just simply a judge. Langston was someone we knew and he brought an understanding of the law and its consequences that adds to the collective body of experience that makes up our judicial system.

Just his presence in the room has an effect on any group of people, and when your wisdom, insight and quest for justice for all becomes enjoined with others’ there is bound to be some sharing and learning between all.

All of our judges believe they’re doing the right thing on behalf of the people but having that other voice -- that voice that represents another piece of our American fabric -- is as important as the notion of justice being

blind.

Judge McKinney was that voice and over 24 years his voice was heard in decisions, many that infuriated law enforcement, but having the breadth and depth of experience of a wise judge he also made law enforcement perform their duties more professionally.

“Where’s the appropriate paperwork?” and “I know why he ran,” was a point of view as important as knowing the local political chatter at the country club.

So Judge McKinney’s retirement is a great loss to the Syracuse community. He’ll be missed on the bench. We can only hope that some of Langston’s common sense, wisdom and insight rubbed off on some of his colleagues over Judge McKinney’s 24 years of service. Thank you.

Did Conrad Murray Kill Michael Jackson?: DrO weighs in!

I have been silent on the issues for a while now but my readers are forcing me to render an opinion in the case.

Many of us have heard the old saying, “Where there is smoke there is fire!” As a forensic Psychiatrist I am trained Dr. Dwight to look at the facts of a Owens, MD case and depositions a little differently. Here are a couple of facts for you to ponder: Two doctors testified, under oath, testified that Dr. Murray refused to accept that Michael was DOA (dead on arrival to the hospital) Murray did not reveal to medical providers that he had given Propofol (short-acting intravenously administered sedative-hypnotic) He did reveal that he gave Lorazepam (commonly known as Ativan to lay persons) This drug is the kissing cousin of Alprazolam (commonly known as Xanax to laypersons). Xanax has been called the most addictive drug prescribed by Psychiatrists. Drugs, in this class, have been known to decrease the respiratory rates of

humans.

Dr. Murray did not activate 911 immediately. Phone records show that there was a critical delay that could have made a medical difference. There was testimony that Dr. Murray even called his girlfriend, Nicole Alvarez prior to activating EMS. It appears that he may have panicked once Michael stopped responding.

The statement of testimony was that Dr. Murray screamed while doing chest compressions on Michael, “Does Anyone Know CPR?’ I am not sure why he would render this question in the crisis. Rumor has it his CPR certification had expired. So has mine so I better move on to the next fact.

LOL. However, all licensed physicians in America should know the ABCs of sustaining life for their patients.

Go to TMZ.Com to view the actual timeline of developments. They have done a great job of spelling out the facts of this case (http://www.tmz.com/2011/01/04/ mj-death-investigation-timeline/).

My opinions and observations As physicians we are trained to, “First Do No harm!” It appears that Dr. Murray’s judgment may have been a little off concerning the administration of a hypnotic

agent outside of a hospital environment.

Michael’s weight should have been of concern to Dr. Murray and I am wondering if appropriate clinical attention had been given to this issue. (i.e. dose-related adjustments of medications based on weight) As a rule, most physicians don’t practice medicine in their patients home. A few, not many, do make house-calls but for only very basic procedures. There are also specific regulations required to store controlled substances and oxygen both inside and outside of the hospital.

I really would like to review the court transcripts on the process and timeline of activating EMS or 911. I am concerned if my colleague, Dr. Murray, would delay in getting his patient, Michael Jackson emergency medical help.

In conclusion, I would never pass any premature judgment on a colleague.

However, there appears to be a few deviations from what we call, “normal standard of care” that may cause the defense some difficulty. I will follow this case and keep you updated. Let’s remain open and nonjudgmental. I know that it may be hard for those of us who grew-up with the Icon Michael Jackson.

1. Do you think Dr. Murray should be convicted of Murder or Involuntary Manslaughter?

2. Do you think that he deviated from the normal “standard of care?”

3. Should the Jackson family “hold harmless” Dr. Murray since he was just doing what Michael requested?

4. Should Dr. Murray be fined or go to jail for his clinical actions with this patient that just happens to be Michael Jackson?

Please let me hear from you on this issue.

Feb. 2011

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Community News South Side Communications Local Circles graduates 100 Center grand opening celebrated percent of their class The Southside Community Coalition and the South Side Initiative Office at Syracuse University celebrated the grand opening of the South Side Communication Center on Wednesday, Jan. 26, at the center, 2331 S. Salina St. The South Side Communication Center is a key part of development of a business and cultural district along South SaVisitors gather in lina Street between East Colvin Street and Brigh- Center. ton Avenue that has been spearheaded by the Southside Community Coalition, SU’s South Side Initiative Office and Home HeadQuarters.

The center will serve as an open access computer cluster, providing residents with free public access to computers with Internet connectivity and on-site assistance.

It will be a central base for community unification, while increasing the community’s computer resources. The center will provide a platform for several communityUniversity projects focusing on technology, communication and the preservation of local history.

The new communications center is located on a property that was a residence, and most recently a consignment boutique that closed two years ago. The property was rehabilitated with a state grant secured by Home HeadQuarters, with SU contributing additional funding.

“The Southside Communications Center will satisfy a much needed demand for public computer and Internet accessibility,” says SCC President Joseph Bryant. “The vision is for it to become the hub for community resident development in the areas of science, technology, math and engineering. We believe there is a gap in access to information within this community and others alike. With the communications center, this gap will decrease.”

“We have been working diligently for

the newly opened South Side Communications several years towards this moment,” says Shante Harris-El, secretary of the Southside Community Coalition. “The grand opening of the Southside Communications Center represents the pinnacle of organizational collaborations at work on the South Side of Syracuse. It is an outward demonstration that we, the residents of the South Side of Syracuse, can work together to bring to fruition an idea for the betterment of our community.”

Harris-El says the communication center will further community development by providing an environment for children and adults to sharpen their computer skills, while offering the community a venue for lectures, classes and meetings. “We envision the center becoming the ‘tech hub’ of the community,” she says.

“The South Side Communications Center was made possible by a strong community-university-resident collaboration.

This collaboration helped me understand that often times, in order to create meaning and beauty in an under-resourced area, many hands are needed,” says Linda Littlejohn, associate vice president for SU’s South Side Initiative. “There were dozens of hands extended to us from SU, the SCC and HHQ—many whose work went beyond the call of duty.”

Bryant hopes that the development of this property will attract more investment by other foundations, agencies and government entities along South Salina Street.

12 participants have completed a 15 week class that has given them a foundation of reasons, relationships and resources to live and become self-sufficient in our Middle Class Society. The “Getting Ahead in a Just Gettin’ By World” class provides understanding and empowers each person to work toward a future story. All 12 original participants graduated on Thursday, January 27, 2011 at the University United Methodist Church, located at 1085 East Genesee Street.

Visions For Change follows the model of the national Circles® Campaign to eliminate poverty. After graduation, all 12 participants plan to become Leaders of their lives. They will be matched with at least two volunteers forming a circle of support as they work towards goals and future plans. Barriers will be identified and explored further.

Housing Visions, a non-profit organization that is revitalizing and sustaining neighborhoods and improving quality of life, offers the opportunity to their residents to become part of Visions For Change’s Cir-

cles® initiative. Participants have expressed their gratitude throughout the program.

One said, “I’ve learned so much since taking this class; I wish this information was available earlier in my life.” Another stated, “I have gained a greater understanding of Middle Class hidden rules, which has made it easier for me to maneuver through our societal structures.”

Circles Coach, Patricia Taylor says “This is the first program I have been involved in that has addressed the psychological and physiological needs of an individual without demeaning, devaluing or disrespecting the person. The Circles® program, using Bridges Out of Poverty concepts, gives practical measures by which lives can be greatly enhanced.”

Children’s Dental Health to be focus of February Observance Sugarless Wednesday and Video Contest Planned for Children Children’s dental health will be the focus of events and programs being sponsored by the New York State Dental Association during Children’s Dental Health Month in February.

New in 2011 is the “Reel Smiles Video Challenge,” a contest for children in preschool through 12th grade in New York State. Their challenge is to create a video portraying the importance of good oral health. Group and individual prizes will be awarded. Contest details can be found at nysdental.org. Entries are due March 15.

Sugarless Wednesday, dedicated to helping children become more aware of

non-essential sugars in their diet, can be celebrated on any or all Wednesdays in February. Free teaching materials, posters, stickers and Sugarless Wednesday “survivor” certificates for children are available from NYSDA. Educators, parents and children interested in more details or in scheduling a presentation by a dentist can contact NYSDA at 518-465-0044 or info@nysdental.org.

The New York State Dental Association is one of the largest state constituents of the American Dental Association and represents more than 13,000 of the state’s practicing dentists. In the last decade, NYSDA has received more than a dozen national awards for its Children’s Dental Health Month programs.

nygearup.syr.edu

February 2011

ITC A look inside

By Rebecca Saxon

In our technology-driven society, the Syracuse City School District’s Institute of Technology is doing its best to stay ahead of the curve.

“We are trying to build a new history,” said principal Matt Williams of the school’s technology and project-based approach. Williams said that enabling the students to be more hands-on lets them ‘”try, maybe fail, come back again and

really learn about the things they want to do.”

For merly known as Central Tech, the Institute of Technology is the smallest of the Syracuse City schools, at just 370 students.

Their Adams St. location has been undergoing extensive renovations so they’ve temporarily relocated to Levy Middle School on Fellows Ave. The displacement doesn’t seem to have affected the students

Please see NY GEARUP page 3

/ NY GEARUP, FEbRUARY 011

STAFF Marissa Joy Mims Director

Caitlin Donnelly

Eagle Newspapers Editor

Carolyn Clark

NY GEARUP Media Editor

Rebecca Saxon

NY GEARUP Media Coordinator

Latisha Lindo Reporters

Scholarships LeMoyne College C.Y.O. Scholarship

For: Prospective LeMoyne students demonstrating leadership abilities and performing service to their school, community and parish. For more information and application contact your guidance counselor.

Number of awards: 8 Amount: $4,000 Due date: Feb. 2

Malea Perkins

NY GEARUP Office Coordinator

Luz Encarnacion

Outreach Coordinator

The New York State Higher Education Services Corporation (HESC) is the state agency that has been designated by the Governor’s office to administer the NY GEARUP Program. Funding for NY GEARUP is provided by a grant from the U.S. Department of Education.

NY GEARUP at Syracuse University receives $567,000 in funding that is matched 100 percent by in-kind services for a total funding of $1,340,000.

HESC helps people pay for college by providing a comprehensive range of financial aid services, including the Tuition Assistance Program, guaranteeing student loans, and administering the nationally recognized New York’s College Savings Plan.

New York State is a leader in the national financial aid community, providing more grant money to college students than any other state.

Davis-Putter Scholarship For: Student activists working towards peace, justice and social change and enrolled in school during 2011-2012 school year. Visit davisputter.org for more information and application.

Number of awards: 25-30 Amount: $10,000 max Due date: April 1

Best Buy Scholarship For: Students in grades 9-12 who demonstrate involvement in community service volunteer work and have solid grades. For more information and to apply, visit bestbuycommunityrelations.com.

Number of awards: 1,200 Amount: $1,000 Due date: Feb. 16

District Attorney’s Advisory Council Scholarship For: Graduating seniors who reside in Onondaga County and are interested in pursuing a career in a criminal justicerelated field. For more info, to nominate a student,or to receive an application, contact DAAC President Judy Wolfe at 435-6345.

Number of awards: 2 Amount: $500 Due date: March 14

What is NY GEARUP? NY GEARUP is based out of Syracuse University’s School of Education. NY GEARUP works in the Syracuse City School District with the class of 2011 at Corcoran, Fowler, Henninger, ITC and Nottingham high schools.

GEARUP stands for Gaining Early Awareness and Readiness for Undergraduate Programs. It’s a national initiative to create innovative programs with the goal of increasing college awareness for students and their families. GEARUP also helps students develop the skills necessary to pursue education after high school.

To achieve its mission, NY GEARUP organizes college visits, tutoring and mentoring, college awareness and exploration activites, and educational planning and workshops.

KFC Colonel Scholarship For: Graduating seniors with financial need, an entrepreneurial spirit, minimum GPA of 2.75 and plan on attending an in-state school. Visit kfcscholars.org for more information.

Number of awards: n/a Amount: up to $20,000 Due date: Feb. 9

‘Got Milk’ Scholarship

For: Milk drinking students that excel in academics, community service and athletics. Visit bodymilk.com for more information and to apply.

Number of awards: 25 Amount: $7,500 and trip to Disney World Due date: March 4

Contact us: NYGEARUP@syr.edu Phone 443.7848 Twitter: NYGEARUP Facebook: NYGEARUP@ Syracuse University Radio: StepIt UP! on Power106.9

Interested in Writing?

For those students in the NY GEARUP program that are graduating in 2011 and are interested in writing for Eagle Newspaper’s NY GEARUP edition, please contact Caitlin Donnelly at cdonnelly@cnylink.com.

NY GEARUP, FEbRUARY 2011 /

THE WAITING GAME Julie Knittel, Senior at ITC offers advice about the stress seniors face while awaiting their acceptance letters.

What schools did you apply to?

I applied to Cortland, OCC, Genesee Community College and Brockport.

Where have you heard back from?

I have only heard back from Brockport and I was not accepted. I was a little mad about it, but it was not my number one school so I just moved on. I just applied to some other schools just in case I can’t get in to my number one college.

What has it been like, waiting to hear back from the other schools?

Waiting for any word from a college is really hard because you want to make sure that you did everything right so that you can get in. For me, I just keep thinking ‘Did I do everything right? Did I have the grades?’ And anything else they look for in a student. It will sometimes make you go nuts, but you have to find ways to just think about the positive things. I am kind of stressed right now waiting to hear back.

Can you offer any advice for others who are in similar situations?

ITC

I deal with the stress by just going to school and trying my best in class. I try to hang out with others outside of school. I try to not make all of my thoughts about ‘Am I going to get in or not?’ It definitely makes you nervous, but you just have to know that you have been giving it all your best and it they don’t like it, then it’s not the college for you. Just try to stay focused on your classes that you have to do to finish high school, and if you don’t get into one school just keep applying and don’t let it get you down.

If you let it get you down, you may not do as well in your current classes. Just make sure to apply to enough schools, so you can have a back up plan.

Summer Start It’s the home stretch of senior year and college is just around the corner. For some, that college may be Syracuse University. Preparing for college life can be intimidating, and Summer Start at SU is designed to ease the transition. The six-week program allows entering freshman the opportunity to become familiar with the academic, social and cultural life at Syracuse University.

Being away from family and friends, making new friends, adjusting to independence and handling a new set of academics can seem pretty daunting if you have no idea what to expect. Enrolling in Summer Start gives prospective SU students a leg-up in the college experience as well as academics.

All Summer Star t students must complete placement tests for mathematics and writing. Once enrolled, participating students live in a fully staffed residence hall.

Most rooms are doubles, with an assigned roommate. A full meal plan is included and available 7 days a week at one of the dining halls within walking distance.

Dates for SummerStart 2011 are July 3-August 12.

CAITLIN DONNELLY

Benefits of Summer Start:

-Earn 7 credits toward your degree -Select from a variety of courses -Begin college-level writing requirements -Explore career-enhancing opportunities -Explore options for travel and study abroad -Meet with an advisor from your school or college to plan your course of study For more info, visit their website; www.summerstart.syr.edu

From NY GEARUP page 1

as they give Williams a high-five on their way down the hall. This year will be their first graduating class, and the principal’s smile is ear-to-ear about the senior’s accomplishments.

ITC has six central programs: automotive, robotics engineering, computer science, culinary, biotech and their media program.

Through partnerships with OCC and SUNY ESF, seniors graduate with 18 college credits, enough to satisfy college core requirements.

On a typical day, seniors split their time between working hands-on in their program’s lab, and in required courses like math, economics, social studies and English. The second half of the year they participate in an internship in the afternoons related to their program.

Some recent internship choices include Clear Channel, Driver’s Village and ME Engineering.

ITC begins recruiting in 8th grade for their freshman year and those accepted begin a combination of traditional course requirements and the technology program of their choosing.

“We are looking for a combination of interests, grades and behavior,” Williams said of the application process, “but we look at everything on a case-bycase basis.”

While some have coined the school as elitist, Williams argues that ITC isn’t about keeping certain students out; it’s about catering to the ones who have specific technological interests.

“If we find students something that they want to do and connect it with traditional course requirements, they will do it with more fidelity,” Williams said of the school’s academic model.

“In terms of staff, we aren’t very deep--and that’s a good thing,” Williams said.

Teachers at ITC have a broad spectrum of responsibilities. They teach classes, provide moral education, monitor the halls, and, according to Williams, they’ll even go pick a student up if they can’t get to school.

“We really know each and every one of our kids,” Williams said, as he stopped to ask a student in the hall how his work is going.

Williams and the students are excited about their new facility, set to re-open for the 2012-2013 school year. Their new, more efficiently used space will include a full gym, a new entrance, new library and six new classrooms. Some new rooms will have stadium seating to help with demonstrations and labwork. Williams said he is excited about the space but thinks that their faculty and students are what really defines the Institute of Technology.

ITC is still fairly new and this gradu-

ating class will serve as the template for future changes to be made in the program.

“We are still figuring out who we are and what works for us,” Williams said.

While some seniors await college acceptance letters, many remain unsure of exactly what path they want to take post-grad. What all students do seem to have in common is their grasp on what fields they want to pursue. This pursuit of interests is what makes ITC a thriving environment for its students.

As for the Institute of Technology’s vision, Williams is matter-of-fact: everyone graduates. He wants the school to continue to develop close relationships with the students to help them prepare for life after high school.

“We’ve found something that excites kids, they want to learn and they want to be here,” Williams said.

/ NY GEARUP, FEbRUARY 2011

STUDENT PROFILE: Jinnah Clark

By Rebecca Saxon NY GEARUP media coordinator

Student: Jinnah Clark, 19, a senior at the Institute of

Technology Program: Started in computer science and now is in the media technology program.

Plans after high school: Pursuing a bachelor’s degree You’re almost a high school graduate, what’s next?

Bio-medical technology. I took Summer College at SU, and it inspired me. In the field, you work with prosthetic legs and make limbs and replacement joints for people who need them.

What has your experience as a student been like

thus far?

I’m glad I went here. I went to middle school at Danforth, and it was rough. It was much bigger. I was a quiet kid and there were always bullies, even though I was pretty big. I definitely learned a lot. I would advise all schools to be smaller because it is less intimidating. I know everyone here, even the 8th graders. It’s been a great experience; I give the kids in the hall advice. I tell them to do their work and to get to class. They look up to me, so I try to tell them to be good.

What is your favorite thing about your school?

I can go to all my teachers with college issues and stuff that’s going on now in high school. I have great relationships with them and I know all of them.

As you pursue higher education and eventually

your career, what’s the most important thing that you’ve learned so far?

At Central Tech, I’ve learned to really take pride in communications. It’s very important to be well spoken and articulate. It’s also important to talk to people in your field and those that share similar interests to you to create bonds with.

Graduation is just around the corner. Are you excited for college?

I’m very excited. I’m very ready. I have a lot of self control and self-discipline but I know college is going to be a big jump. I’m excited to find people who have the same work ethics so that I can be productive.

Clark is currently awaiting his acceptance letters from Colgate University,Clarkson University,University of Connecticut and Drexel University. Best of luck to him as he pursues his career!

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Feb. 2011

The African American Music What’s up Tomlin’s Steelers Win Shows the of the Civil War, 1861-65 Mike Value of Diversity in the NFL

African-Americans in the news

African American music played a vital role during the Civil War. The 2011 national theme is “African Americans and the Civil War.” The troops and people of all walks of life were involved during four decades of the war. Thousands of African Americans from various units served in the military. These also included African American runaway slaves who joined the fight. The North and the South were in major battle and conflict. The war lasted four years and was eventually won by the North African American soldiers Dr. Joan Hillsman comprised of ten percent of the entire Union army losses. Losses Music Historian were high among African Americans. Over one-third of all African Americans enrolled in the military lost their lives during the war.

President Abraham Lincoln, the sixteenth president, is credited for guiding the country (13th Amendment) through the abolishment of slavery.

Music was very prevalent during the Civil War. The Negro Spirituals were very historic, for they were born during the period of slavery. Secular songs and music, in general, was being reiterated. This month, which is Black History celebration month, can connect to the national theme. The history of all people could be shared with the young and old as a part of our cultural celebrations.

History Day at Peoples AME Zion Church Last Saturday, Peoples AME Zion Church on South Salina Street invited older members of the congregation to a Hisy Day Rhodes tor focused on nancykeeferhodes@ the church gmail.com they’d outgrown and left behind in the mid-70s.

Elders brought old clippings and photos to be scanned; some sat down to record oral histories. On October 30, 1911, the Syracuse Peoples’ AME Zion Church had dedicated a new church at 711 East Fayette St., in the midst of what was then a tree-lined residential neighborhood. A century later, that building – now behind a high-rise hotel, shorn of its trees (except the adventuresome sapling sprouting from the roof) and its old frame-

Nancy Keefe

house neighbors – is vacant and badly in need of repair and restoration. But it remains the oldest standing Black church in the county and one of the few remaining structures from the old 15th Ward. Last spring another informal group began meeting. Over the intervening months, the Peoples Committee to Save 711 East Fayette has picked up more supporters, steam, and a grant from Preserve New York (through the Preservation Association of Central New York or PACNY) to do the research needed to apply for national historical landmark status. Such designation opens the way for funds to restore 711. Just days before snow flew last fall, with support from the Gifford Foundation and the Connective Corridor, workers completed a winter “button-up” of the roof and stained glass windows. Read an update on the unfolding project at theeaglecny.com – click A&E.

Anyone watching with pride as the Pittsburgh Steelers fought their way to yet another Super Bowl likely heard a few interesting facts about the general on the field, Mike Tomlin. Tomlin, at the age of 38, is the youngest head coach to lead two teams to the Super Bowl. Before that, he was the youngest head coach to win a Superbowl.

He does this while sitting at the helm of a storied franchise that has more Super Bowl wins than any team in NFL history. In other words, the man is a serious beast.

Tomlin’s feats are not just impressive for a black coach, they stand above nearly any coach in NFL history. It is equally ironic that he is the head coach of the Pittsburgh Steelers, whose owner was responsible for opening the door for black coaches to get a chance in the league. Steelers owner Dan Rooney helped create the Rooney rule, requiring NFL teams to interview African Americans for head coaching and senior administrative positions.

The NFL must be given tremen-

Mike Tomlin

ALL POWER TO THE PEOPLE! 7 p.m. Jan.8 to 4 p.m. Feb. 19

February calendar of events 505 Hawley Avenue Syracuse, NY Gallery Hours: Wed. - Fri. 2-7pm, Sat. 12-4pm

Graphics of the Black Panther Party USA. From the collection of the CENTER FOR THE STUDY OF POLITICAL GRAPHICS. (CSPG is the largest repository of political posters after World War II in the USA with over 75,000 in their collection.)

All Power to the People! features Black Panther Party posters and newspaper graphics produced in the 1960s

dous credit for creating avenues for diversity within its ranks. The contributions of African American athletes on the field are undeBy Dr. Boyce niable, but historical oppression of people Watkins, PhD of color has kept doors shut when they should have been opened.

The NCAA should also consider its own version of the Rooney rule given the dearth of black representation in the ranks of college football coaching. In fact, the economic exploitation being committed by the NCAA is egregious, given that billions are earned on the backs of poor African American families, with the bulk of that wealth going to a predominantly white group of university coaches and administrators who sign multimillion-dollar contracts and then put professional-level pressure on young men who are trying to be students at the same time.

Tomlin’s achievements on the field and off match the gritty style of play of the Steelers and the tough-minded fans of Pittsburgh. Additionally, the ownership of the Steelers organization has truly presented itself as a beacon of hope in a world that must find ways to honestly confront the crippling effects of racial inequality. I applaud Tomlin, the Steelers organization and the incredibly loyal fans for their amazing achievements. If every organization in America were run like the Pittsburgh Steelers, our nation would be able to heal from the damage that was caused by racism.

Dr. Boyce Watkins is the founder of the Your Black World Coalition and a Scholarship in Action resident of the Institute for Black Public Policy.

and 1970s. The exhibition highlights the artistry of Emory Douglas, and documents the Panthers’ involvement with a broad array of causes, including opposition to the Viet Nam War and solidarity with the United Farm Workers movement. With documents obtained through the Freedom of Information Act, All Power to the People! also illustrates efforts of the United States government to destroy the Panthers as part of widespread efforts to stifle oppositional political move-

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ments. The social programs of the Panthers and the powerful images of armed party members had a strong impact on the public consciousness of the time, and their efforts to combat the oppression of racism and poverty still resonate today.

What We Want, What We Believe – Documentary footage of the Black Panther Party

The path to your first home.

As part of this exhibition, ArtRage will screen segments of this documentary and the award winning film series, Eyes on the Prize on Wednesday and Thursday nights beginning January 12, 2011 (see film listings).

The State of New York Mortgage Agency (SONYMA) offers first-time homebuyers: ‡ RU \HDU IL[HG LQWHUHVW UDWHV WKDW DUH W\SLFDOO\ EHORZ PDUNHW ‡)LQDQFLQJ XS WR ‡)OH[LEOH XQGHUZULWLQJ JXLGHOLQHV ‡'RZQ SD\PHQW DVVLVWDQFH KLJKHU RI RU RI WKH ORDQ DPRXQW RU XS WR

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1-800-382-HOME (4663) or visit www.nyshcr.org

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For more information, call

Chocolate Revolution Tour at ArtRage 7 to 9 p.m. Feb.10

The Chocolate Revolution Tour 2011 will be an interactively sweet experience focused around fair-trade chocolate, music and education. Headlined by Left On Red with additional performances by Grace Lynn Stumberg, the two week tour consists of evening performances at venues as well as educational initiatives in high schools and radio and press interviews throughout each day. Left On Red believes by making the simple informed decision to purchase Fair Trade Chocolate this Valentine’s day consumers are taking a step toward eradicating child slavery in the cocoa fields of Africa and

showing powerful corporations that it is unacceptable to profit from child trafficked labor in any industry.

The Chocolate Revolution Tour ends on Valentine’s Day, a time when everyone is buying and receiving chocolate. “It is important to know that not all chocolates are created equal. Unfortunately, unless the chocolate we buy is fair-trade certified, it is most likely sourced from slave labor, primarily forced child labor on the West Coast of Africa,� state Left On Red’s, Liah Alonso and Kelly Halloran.

Suggested donation is $10 at the door and children 12 and under, seniors, and unemployed get in free. Last year the Chocolate Revolution played to a packed house at Ani DiFranco’s Babeville in Buffalo.

MOVIES OF COLOR: BLACK SOUTHERN CINEMA (2003) 8 to 10 p.m. Feb.12

Directed by Tom Thurman Fascinating documentary explores films

by African-Americans that offered non-stereotypical portraits of their lives in America between 1915 and 1945. Rare and revealing. $5 Suggested Donation

THE DEFIANT ONES (1958)

8 to 10 p.m. Feb.19, Directed by Stanley Kramer. Chained to each other, two escaped cons — one black/one white – battle the elements and each other. Daring for its time, made at the height of racial conflict in America. Starring Sidney Poitier and Tony Curtis. Oscars: Best Screenplay, b&w Cinematography. $5 Suggested Donation.

Opportunities

OCC announces new forensic science degree Preparing Students for High-Demand Careers in Cyber Security and Cyber Forensics SYRACUSE, NY – A unique collaboration between two academic departments at Onondaga Community College – Computer Studies and Criminal Justice – has led to the creation of a new degree program: Associate of Science in Computer Forensics Science. To facilitate smooth transfer and a clear pathway for success in this field, Onondaga has transfer agreements already in place with Hilbert College and Utica College.

Beginning in fall 2011, interested students can enroll in the Computer Forensics Science A.S. degree which combines computer science, computer forensics, and criminal justice courses together into one comprehensive degree. In 2009, U.S. Internet crime losses reached $560 million, up from $ 265 million in 2008.

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, future job opportunities are expected to be favorable for See OCC, page 7

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Opportunities

Small business counseling offered by SCORE The Syracuse Chapter of SCORE, Counselors to America’s Small Business and affiliated with the SBA, has been serving clients in the region for more than 40 years. Various free programs and confidential assistance are available, including workshops and counseling for all segments of the population.

As a result of the growth of online requests, the Chapter has succeeded in providing services to clients well beyond the local counties. Since the year 2003, more than 1,000 assignments have been completed for 700 new and established businesses in 45 states. Most of the major metropolitan areas, as well as many smaller communities, have received e-mail advice. Also, others who reside outside of the United States, including Europe, Asia, and Latin America, have contacted the local chapter to seek counseling. Thus, a worldwide network of clients have given high rankings for the

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qualified computer forensic investigators.

Opportunities include positions in fields such as criminal forensics, cyber security,

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information security, data analytics and more. Organizations hiring people with computer forensics degrees include: FBI, CIA, Department of Defense and Department of Homeland Security.

achievements by the local chapter.

It has become evident that common problems and other issues relate to small businesses everywhere. Such topics as startup procedures, business plans, financing, marketing, taxes, legal, accounting, and growth have been covered in workshops and counseling sessions. The expansion of these activities, on a national and worldwide level, also offers numerous opportunities for business and educational partners of SCORE to pursue new challenges in the future. Despite the recent setbacks in the economy, SCORE activities continue to thrive and are expected to grow steadily, for the benefit of many enterprises in the years to come.

For more information about starting or operating a small business, call (315) 471-9393 x245 or visit SCORE at syracusescore.org.

805 East Genesee Street, Syracuse, NY 13210 • Phone: (315) 442-2230 • Email: cfac@syr.edu

Beginning this week, CFAC will be offering a new round of adult and youth classes for the spring 2011 semester.

To register or learn more, contact us at (315) 442-2230 or at cfac@syr.edu.

We hope that you’ll join us!

Zumba Fitness

Tuesdays, 6:30-7:30 p.m.

Runs from Jan. 25 to March 15 Instructor: Andreina Botero Delgado Cost: $10/class Zumba is a 60-min. fitness/ aerobic dance program that features a variety of Latin rhythms that tone and sculpt the body. A great way to have some fun while you exercise!

Wheel Throwing I

Tuesdays, 6:30-8:30 p.m.

Runs from Jan. 25 to April 12 Instructor: Katherine Hughes Cost: $200+$45 material & studio fee In this popular class for beginners, you will be exposed to the basics of wheel throwing and will create your very own ceramic pieces. If you’re adventurous and willing to get your hands dirty, this is a perfect art class for you.

Wheel Throwing II

Thursdays, 6:30-8:30 p.m.

Runs from Jan. 27 to April 14 Instructor: Katherine Hughes Cost: $200+$45 material & studio fee Advance your knowledge by exploring pottery terminology and furthering your wheel throwing skills. Best for those with some wheel throwing experience, this course will hone your abilities and allow you to create more pieces for your collection.

Stone Carving I

Wednesdays, 6:30-8:30 p.m.

Runs from Jan. 26 to March 16 Instructor: Tom Huff Cost: $175+$25 material fee Taught by talented local stone sculptor Tom Huff, this class will expose beginner students to various stone carving techniques. Students will have the choice of working with alabaster or soapstone.

PB&J (Paintbrushes & Junior Artists)

Saturdays, 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m.

Ages 5-11 Runs from Jan. 29 to Feb. 26 Instructor: Marla Jones Cost: $10/class or $45 for all five classes Youth will have the opportunity to think critically, express ideas, and create art during this PB&J session which focuses on Native American art. Each week, students will learn about a particular element of Native American culture and complete an art project to take home.

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Classes Starting at CFAC

[re]think your future

Learn more at sunyocc.edu

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From Workforce Development to Continuing Education, Onondaga offers programs that meet the needs of of employees and employers in Central New York.

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