Sean Kirst: On Christmas morning, a card with our wish for longtime readers
For a gray-haired columnist, a Yuletide reflection of gratitude about renewing bonds forged over many years.
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LATEST REPORTING
Sean Kirst: For 34 new citizens, a judge who sees their dreams given voice by the ‘Mother of Exiles’
For one couple from Iraq, young children in their arms, a gateway to new hope after a long, hard journey.
Syracuse Housing Authority to close on financing for second phase of East Adams redevelopment
The redevelopment of public housing, valued at $1 billion, will be stretched across several phases.
Blueprint 15 taps Sarah Walton LaFave as executive director
The interim executive director at Blueprint 15 will stay on as its leader during the redevelopment of public housing on Syracuse’s Southside.
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I-81 AND PUBLIC HOUSING COVERAGE
Syracuse Housing Authority breaks ground on first phase of public housing redevelopment
The $1 billion redevelopment, which will be stretched out across several phases, will involve redeveloping and building 1,400 apartments.
Syracuse Housing Authority could begin redevelopment of Eastwood Heights in early 2026
SHA officials say they expect to close on financing for the $25.9 million redevelopment project by the end of 2025.
Syracuse Housing Authority board elects developer as new board chair
Syracuse-based developer Ryan Benz was elected by fellow board members to serve as the board chair of Syracuse Housing Authority.
CULTURE
Sean Kirst: In shadow of state football playoffs, city dreams — old and new — at Roosevelt Field
Remembering a landmark game, 62 years ago, that marked changing eras on a South Side field the city school district hopes to restore.
Sean Kirst: At 25th Adoption Day gathering, a ‘founding father’ finds a roomful of children, love and meaning
For Kevin Harrigan, there since the beginning of this annual event, every few steps led to a mom, dad or grown child saying: Thanks.
Sean Kirst: Centuries later, original wampum still evokes living truth of Canandaigua
At an annual remembrance, generational witnesses to the flesh-and-blood commitments of a treaty.
EDITOR’S PICKS
Federal immigration agents accessed Syracuse drivers’ data through secret Flock Safety deal
Privacy and civil rights watchdogs have called on Syracuse to terminate its Flock contract. SPD says it’s comfortable contracting with the company, which is facing Congressional investigation.
‘From Snob Hill to Slob Hill’: Tenants say conditions at once luxurious apartments forced them to sue owner
Ten tenants have sued the owners of Nob Hill to push for repairs of the apartment complex, which has 48 open code violations.
A herd, a hide and a 50-year friendship: How the Onondaga Nation brought the buffalo back
A gift 50 years ago has allowed the Onondaga Nation to raise a herd of about 70 buffalo in southern Onondaga County.
SEAN KIRST’S UPSTATE JOURNAL
Sean Kirst: In mist of snow, graveyard quests of “hearts and souls” lead to wreaths for veterans
At the Onondaga County Veterans Memorial Cemetery, family members used their hands to dig out tombstones, hidden by deep snow.
Sean Kirst: As ‘Freedom of Espresso’ turns 30, recalling a Chuckie Holstein truth to fit the milestone
The fight against a corporate giant is the famous story, but maybe the real lesson for Syracuse is what 30 years represents.
Sean Kirst: On Veterans Day, Joe Watson’s family has a message for Central New York
Gratitude over love and support for a 103-year-old World War II vet., a symbol of the veterans community.
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