Stephen Hall: First Post

My name is Stephen Hall and I am a Junior at Syracuse University.

I am from Dayton, Ohio and am a die hard Cincinnati Bengals fan. In high school I used to box, wrestle, and do Muay Thai kickboxing, and at Syracuse I'm in a fraternity and a member of the Syracuse Cheerleading team.

Currently, I am working with the Northside Community Police Center as part of my public affairs class, PAF 315. I've been asked to conduct a survey of users of NCPC. 

I began by designing a spreadsheet, and filled it with the names of the people who have attend events within the past year. 

Then I designed a survey with the input of Officer Clarke, Renee, and Northsidebloggr.  Once the surveys are returned, I will tabulate the results and produce a report. 

So far it is extremely rewarding and a great learning experience.

The surveys go out today. In a few weeks, I will get the data back so I can start tabulating the results.

You'll be hearing more from me soon.

Proceed

Lost_Boys,

originally uploaded by kwmcnutt.

"If I happen to be alive today,
I have to say that whatever happened yesterday,
happened yesterday.

If someone did something bad to me,
I have to forgive them,
or else what they did will hound me every day . . .

Every day, I have to proceed. Let me proceed."

- Julius Wani

Defined by courage and triumph over his experiences in Sudan, Julius Wani is no longer a "Lost Boy".

Syracuse Post Standard Columnist Sean Kirst has chronicled the story of this friend of Lopez Lomong, including his reaction to the results of Lomong's Olympic competition. Don't miss it.

Gold Medal Sportsmanship: Alicia Sacramone

Alicia Sacramone (United States), originally uploaded by jodfevic.

Good leadership is like good sportsmanship. One of the most important lessons to be learned in victory and defeat is the need to be gracious, win or lose.

Alicia Sacramone's performance on the balance beam in Beijing presented a great test of her sportsmanship and leadership abilities, particularly after the competition ended.

The captain and her teammates on the US Women's Gymnastics team have endured more pressure from the distractions created by international politics than any other team thus far in the Beijing Olympics. With a few exceptions, commentators seem unwilling to acknowledge the impact of these matters on the athletes.

China was honored with the torch. They have succeeded in grabbing the world's attention with spectacular displays. Carrying the torch involves responsibilities as well, including advancing the principles of good sportsmanship.

Sportsmanship is about more than the outcome of the game. It's also about how the game is played, under what conditions, and how coaches and athletes choose to respond. When the emphasis of coaches, athletes, parents, officials, fans or the media is focused on winning at the expense of everything else, there is nothing of value left to be learned when a team does not get the top prize. Nor is there much of lasting value to achievements gained on an uneven playing field.

Good coaches ensure that the right lessons are learned so that athletes can perform better the next time. Others, including the media, play a role in either supporting these learning opportunities or hindering them, not just for the athletes but for all who are observing. In that regard, they're carrying the Olympic torch as well.

Under such scrutiny, athletes who maintain their composure and behave with dignity in spite of a loss, under conditions beyond their control, are to be commended.

For all those involved in influencing youth, the Olympic games, and these circumstances specifically, present teachable moments about good sportsmanship. These lessons translate into other life circumstances. Similar circumstances may be encountered in the workplace and in relationships with others.

In sportsmanship and leadership, Alicia Sacramone gave a gold medal performance.


Note: Alicia's interview with Andrea Joyce following her performance is here. If you use Mozilla and have problems accessing it, try opening it in Internet Explorer.

Youth Programs: Why Bother?

Do youth programs make a difference? Do they prevent crime?

Is the Center just about making kids feel all warm and fuzzy, then sending them on their way where they'll get into trouble anyway?

Persistent criminal behavior by youth is the result of wrong choices. These contributing factors, according to research, tend to prevail in youth who commit crimes:

• Family violence
• Neglect, including:
• Lack of involvement;
• Lack of supervision by parents or any other caring adult;
• Little to no emotional and social support from neighbors, relatives or friends;
• Difficulties in school;
• Peer-pressure;
• Neighborhoods with sub-standard housing, recreational, health and educational facilities;
• Youth unemployment and blocked opportunities; and
• Poverty.

Many youngsters experience some of these problems and will never commit a crime. A child who experiences one or more of these problems, however, may be at a greater risk of criminal behavior. When parental supports are lacking, who provides the positive influence that children need to make right choices?

The Center's programs are not just about giving kids a positive experience, although that's a benefit we hope they receive. Those who work directly with the children and their parents, including officers and community volunteers, have some idea of what their lives and homes are like. Seeing them smile is rewarding.

The programs are about establishing relationships and supports, providing supervision and engaging children in positive, rewarding activities. All of these factors help to reduce the likelihood that these children will make choices that result in criminal activity.

The approach focuses on the positive, although it's intent is to address a negative: Crime and the factors that can contribute to it's cause. The Center's programs offer positive experiences to children who are facing many difficulties, living in situations that most of us never had to experience.

The children have fun, learn something, and receive a reward for their successes. They develop connections and relationships with other adults that care, and make friends with other children. This creates a sense of belonging within their neighborhood and community. When kids feel they matter to someone, that their lives have worth and value, they're more apt to behave constructively.

The Community Policing Division is addressing the problem in order to reduce youth crime. We have written about some of the strategies here, and invite you to take a closer look through the archives. Specifically, articles tagged "youth development", "programs", "events" or with a program name such as "GREAT". "DARE", provide more information.

Many of the officers involved with youth, either in proactive programs or reactively, give up personal time and the easy pace of summer while others are enjoying family vacations and lighter schedules that these few months are supposed to be about. These officers wouldn't do it with such dedication if it didn't make a difference. Every day there is an opportunity to influence at least one child or parent for the good.

Crime prevention and youth development programs are not effective when done in a vacuum. When neighbors, businesses, schools and other government departments, volunteers and donors supply a steady commitment of their resources, programs can be delivered consistently and effectively.

Resources include money, time, skills and abilities. Interested adults who are willing to volunteer their time are also needed. You can bring your children with you, as some of our volunteers do. Our events are family-friendly, and provide a great volunteer opportunity for tweens, teens and college students. They are also fun for adults.

We invite any honest skeptic to spend a few hours with one of the officers, and take a closer look. Give us a call if you're interested: (315)471-3257.

Or, stop by the picnic in Washington Square Park next Thursday, July 31 for lunch, and chat with us.

Summer Youth Programs

Alyssa leads youth in a crafting activity at the Northside Community Police Center.

Hi Everyone,

I'm new to the blog, but I have been taking part in the volunteer scene at the Police Center for many years now. Many of you may have seen me working around the Center or volunteering at one of the many events my father puts on.

For the readers who do not know me, my name is Alyssa Clarke. Those who read the post back on July 15 (or who notice the last name), may know that I am one of Officer Clarke's daughters. I graduated from Roberts Wesleyan College this past May, and I plan on attending Cortland College for my Master's in Spanish Education.

In the meantime, I am helping my father at the Northside Community Police Center. I am running the Breakfast and Lunch Program for youth 18 and under (for the second year in a row), and working on getting a kids summer program going this year.

In hopes of getting kids interested in reading, I have organized a time for them to come in to the Police Center to read books, do crafts, and play games. Our first day was July 22, so the program is very new. Volunteer support and craft donations would be much appreciated while it's still getting on its feet.

If you know any kids in the area between the ages of 7 and 13, they are welcome to join us. The program runs through August 21 on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays beginning at 2pm.

We are located at 255 Wolf Street, on the corner of Park.

I hope to see some new faces at the Northside!

Your newest blogger,

Alyssa

GREAT Kids to Volunteer at Picnic

Officers Diglio (left) and Boni (right) with youth enrolled in GREAT.

"GREAT Kids!"  photo by Northsidebloggr 

Officer Tony Diglio is having a busy summer.

He and his fellow officers in the DARE Unit just completed a three-week session with more than a dozen students enrolled in the GREAT program. One week later, they're on to the next group who are actively engaged in their sessions at the Boys and Girls Club on Hamilton Street.

It's not even halfway through Day 2 and the group dynamics have already begun, with issues arising between personalities. This is a difficult time of life for the kids, who range in age from 10 to 14 years old.

They've come to the program on the recommendation of teachers, parents or resource officers working in the schools who have developed relationships with the youth and are able to identify individuals who would benefit by participating in GREAT: Gang Resistance Education And Training.

Late this morning, one young person was being counseled regarding dealing with the opposite sex in the peer group. Officer Diglio listened to the concerns, and pointed out the importance of interpersonal relations. Learning to communicate effectively with others, he said, will help now and later in life when pursuing life goals. He used an object lesson to teach the child who readily responded to the interest shown. The child left the room with a new resolve to relate better with others.

Next week, the youth will hone their teamwork and interpersonal skills in sessions designed specifically for this purpose. Officer Clarke will join these officers and others in the Community Policing Division to work with the kids outdoors in team building activities. This will culminate with a session in the woods of LaFayette on a Ropes Challenge Course located just south of the Jamesville Reservoir.

For the remainder of this week, the kids will be presented with all aspects of the Criminal Justice system by officers in various units within the Syracuse Police Department, as well as Onondaga County Probation. They will have field trips to various places and presenters coming to them, with messages on everything from goal setting to making wise choices, to career opportunities in law enforcement. Later, they will visit the courthouse for presentations by the District Attorney, and City and County Court judges.

Earlier this morning, the kids heard from a detective in the Youth Division regarding the consequences of making one bad decision. He emphasized how many other people are affected by one individual's choices. Using actual, local children's situations as case studies, the detective impressed on them that these are real people's lives, and not fictional stories. The kids also learned the difference in the levels of charges and the corresponding penalties.

There's also a taste of "cool" and some fun built into the agenda. The kids will see a demo by the officer in charge of the robot used by the Bomb Squad, and check out a fully-equipped, customized police motorcycle built by Harley Davidson. They'll visit the MOST, the zoo and watch a movie with a message.

They'll also volunteer in the community. Next Thursday, the youth will serve lunch to neighbors and supporters alongside others volunteering at the "Picnic With Police and Fire Departments". Stop by and meet us for lunch in Washington Square Park between Noon and 2pm, July 31.

We are still in need of donations for the picnic. For more information, please contact us at (315)471-3257.

For further information on the GREAT program, contact Officer Tony Diglio at (315)442-5216.

Eclectic Melders

"Vulcan Mind Meld" originally uploaded by Tai High.

Dick Case melded with us yesterday on the graffiti art discussion by telling the story of artist Juan Cruz and his West-side murals that come together with the help of children, teachers and funders. Cruz's current restoration project was privately commissioned by a local businessman and investor.

This photo journal of a local artist's mural painting project on Syracuse's East-side is also notable. It depicts the abolitionist Reverend Jermain Loguen, and is located a few blocks from the site of the home he lived in. The mural is painted on the side of the building that houses Richmark Carpet and Linoleum, a locally owned business.

The original Loguen home, located where a Rite Aid chain store now stands, has been called one of the most important sites on the Underground Railroad because of Loguen's impact. The artist, London Ladd, involved youth and other adults in completing his project.

These murals are distinguished from works of graffiti art that are not commissioned, and exist on public or privately owned structures without permission of the owners.

Graffiti Art: Street Art or Street Crime?

"Just out of curiousity", originally uploaded by Sator Arepo.

Alphabeta, a graffiti supply store, recently opened in Brooklyn dedicated to street art. It includes a gallery area with exhibits being scheduled.

A news story on NPR briefly discusses whether venues like this actually promote art or criminal mischief.

An additional issue is whether efforts to promote graffiti art have any positive influence on taggers who use spray paint to mark gang territory and vandals who deface their neighborhoods, causing immense problems to others, including property owners.

Some graffiti promotion efforts can actually have the reverse effect, attracting vandals and exacerbating the problem. Alphabeta's concept, as presented in the news story, sounds different from these.

Perhaps business concepts like Alphabeta's would succeed in smaller communities with some vision, leadership and interest in creating an arts program for youth, with an eye toward developing talent and engaging kids at risk of joining gangs.

A segment involving kids at some step in the process of community efforts to remove graffiti that is not art, in areas where it does not belong, would reinforce the legitimacy of such programs to prospective donors and the community at large. It would also teach students in the program to use their talents responsibly, and care about their neighborhoods.

In Syracuse, a similar venue could be located within the developing arts district established on the near West-Side. This area is within walking distance from several schools, and would be easy for children to access.

Great Kids Volunteer at Young Pheasant Release Program

Several teens from the GREAT Program joined Officer Clarke, along with other sportsmen and women and their children as volunteers in an area Young Pheasant Release program yesterday.

In spite of the heat, the children and teens worked enthusiastically and tirelessly alongside the adults to help apply blinders to over 1,000 five week old pheasants. The purpose of the blinders is to prevent the young pheasants from attacking each other, as they are apt to do at this phase in their development.

Once the blinders were on, the pheasants were refreshed and transferred to large outdoor pens. There they will mature until the fall when they will be released into designated wildlife areas.

More pics here.

GREAT Program: Summer 2008, Session I

Hi Everyone,

This whole week I am working with our DARE Officers in their Summer Youth Program G.R.E.A.T. –Gang Resistance Education and Training.

We are spending the days on Meachem Field off W. Seneca Turnpike doing team building activities with a group of 20 ten to thirteen year olds.

It's been plenty hot but that is not keeping us from enjoying our time together. They are a wonderful group of kids. They have lots of energy and are beginning to come together as a team.

We will continue working at Meachem Field until Friday, when we will spend the day on the Lafayette Ropes Challenge Course. Most of the young people are a little intimidated about climbing onto the high elements but the next couple days of team building and trust activities will prepare them for Friday.

It's quite a switch from a couple of weeks ago working with a corporate group, Allen International. It seems that I just can't make up my mind which groups I like working with more.

When I was with the corporate group I thought how nice it was to be working with a bunch of motivated adults. Now, when I am with these young people I think about the impact we might have on their young developing minds. Building good youth/police relations may help them resist making bad decisions like joining a gang. I guess I am happy to be working with various groups of people.

Motivating people to challenge themselves and make good choices is something I truly love to do.

Feel free to drop by and see how we are doing. Just, make sure to introduce yourself so as not to be a stranger watching from afar.

Have you challenged yourself today?

GREAT Program Pics: Summer 2008, Session I

Students participate in a team-building exercise.

GREAT Summer Program

GREAT SUMMER 07-1 108, originally uploaded by northsidepolice.

Officers participate with youth in low elements of a Challenge Course set up in Meachem Park last summer.

The DARE/GREAT Unit of the Syracuse Police Department has announced the 2008 Summer GREAT Program.

GREAT (Gang Resistance Education and Training) is a curriculum based on the goals of reducing gang activity and educating youth on the consequences of gang involvement.

The program is open to youth between the ages of 10-14 years old, and is being made available free of charge to participants, thanks to grants secured by the department.

The sessions are three weeks long, and offered as follows:

• Session 1: June 30 - July 25 (no class from July 14-18)
• Session 2: July 28-August 22 (no class August 11-15)

Classes will meet from 8:30am-1:30pm at the Hamilton Street Boys and Girls Club with lunch served daily.

Transportation will be provided from the East Fayette Street Boys and Girls Club. Parents are responsible to deliver their children to either location, and transportation will be provided from there, as needed.

Trained uniformed police officers present the GREAT curriculum to youth in a classroom setting and through involvement in a wide range of community-based activities. The objective is to impart life skills, a sense of competency, usefulness and personal empowerment to youth, enabling them to resist involvement in violence and criminal activity.

The program is intended to help students become responsible members of their communities by setting personal goals, resisting peer pressure, learning how to resolve conflicts constructively and understanding how gangs impact the quality of life.

For further information and an application, please contact the DARE/GREAT Unit at (315)442-5216. Check out the pics from GREAT 2007.

Reflections of a Fisherman

"Jim Gates teaches a boy to fish" originally uploaded by northsidepolice

Northsidebloggr has been encouraging me for months to post to the blog more often.

Most of what I know how to do on the computer I have learned on my own. That should give you an idea of how limited my computer skills are. I'm still learning the difference between a blog and a post. And I'm being Twittered to death.

A couple of weeks ago, I attempted to write a post on our Spring fishing trip. I was away from my computer, so I vigilantly typed at my tiny BlackBerry keyboard for over an hour.

Feeling confident my two thumbed typing was improving, I attempted to kick it up a little and mistakenly hit the back button. I lost all my work.

After regular encouragement from Northsidebloggr, I'm making another attempt at sharing moments from our Spring Fishing Trip. But this time I'm playing it safe. I'm at my laptop.

Over the past weeks, I've been busy instructing on the Pistol Range, leading a Ropes Challenge Course refresher at Camp Huntington in Raquette Lake, and attending a wedding, along with my regular duties at the Police Center. I was beginning to wonder whether we were going to have a free weekend to make this trip.

To make matters worse, we're low on funds, thanks in part to my last letter/blog post telling folks not to feel compelled to donate to every event, since rotating donations generally manage to meet our financial needs. That was a mistake I won't ever repeat, and should I have another lapse in judgment, the blog editor has assured me that she has my back.

We managed to make the trip in spite of the lack of adequate funds. To do so, we had to reduce the number of children we took with us. We were unable to purchase any new fishing equipment and needed to cut back on fruit and snack foods. But we felt the chocolate, marshmallows and graham crackers needed for S'more's were mandatory. We spent more than we received in donations.

Here's how the trip went. On the Friday before Memorial Day, Officer Dave Ware and I rounded up nine children right after school, loaded them into the DARE van and started on our journey northward on 81. Renee drove behind us in my pickup truck loaded with gear. My mother and her companion, Jim Gates, headed out from Palermo.

About an hour into our trip, we were nearing the Mannsville Rest Area where each long holiday weekend the volunteer fire department sets up a coffee stop. I can never drive by. It's not the coffee that draws me in. It's the dedication of these fine folks who give their time to benefit weary drivers. I knew the volunteers would be pleased to serve a DARE van full of children.

We pulled in, the kids piled out of the van, and we were promptly greeted by the smiling faces of the volunteers. The children each received a package of cookies or crackers and a cup of hot chocolate. As the volunteers chatted with the children, I admired their patience in answering each of the numerous questions the kids threw at them. Believe me they can ask a lot of questions.

As Officer Ware gathered the children back into the van, I dropped a twenty into the collection jar. Although I felt they deserved more, the weekend was just starting and I knew we were going to need the dollars.

We didn't travel much further before the "Are we there yet's?" started. After what seemed like a hundred or more "Almost's", we were driving down the driveway to camp. All three vehicles arrived at camp minutes apart.

Renee settled the girls in their bedroom while the boys brought their gear into the camper. We fired up the grill and Renee cooked hot dogs and hamburgers for dinner. After we ate, the children gathered up wood for a campfire and a gooey dessert.

It was a challenge to keep the marshmallows, which were flaming on the end of nine 3' forks, out of the kid's hair before they could be squeezed between the chocolate and graham crackers being prepared by Renee and Dave.

Although one of the boys was quite small, we had to set a limit on the number of S'more's he was allowed to consume, as cooking marshmallows all night long was not part of the plan.

Around 11, Renee and Dave brought the girls inside. While Mom, Gates and I sat a bit longer around the fire with the boys, I conceded to their requests to hold long sticks in the fire.

Once the sticks were glowing red, the next concession was allowing "The Waving of the Glowing Sticks". The boys insisted that the circulating smoke would keep the bugs from biting us.

By midnight, I had inhaled more smoke than any passing bug and insisted it was time for bed. Although the boys denied being tired, they were asleep within 30 seconds of being tucked in.

The smell of bacon awoke me the next morning. The boys were out on the dock fishing with mother and Gates. Soon the girls got up and we all ate together. Renee likes to treat the children to a hot breakfast of bacon, hash, eggs and toast. We serve cereal as well, and most kids eat everything we offer them.

We were happy to find that none of the beds were wet. This is a problem we sometimes encounter, but thankfully, everyone rested well at my camp.

After breakfast, we loaded the kids in the van and drove a half mile down the road to the local bait store where we signed them all up for the "Tagged Fish Contest". Several hundred Panfish are caught, tagged and released back into the lake each Spring. If you purchase an entry form and later catch a tagged fish you win a prize. Prizes range from fishing poles to $5,000 cash.

During the weekend we must have caught and released 1,000 Panfish. Unfortunately, none of them were tagged. In past years, I have caught a couple of tagged fish and won $25.

It was a challenge dividing up the nine children between three rowboats and one canoe, each powered by an adult. Two of the boys who were assigned to the canoe had gone out earlier that morning with Dave in the rowboat. They told him they preferred the rowboat, which allowed them to move around inside much more than the canoe, which required them to sit still.

As Dave shared this fact with me, I pictured the canoe tipping over with all my gear floating to the bottom of the lake. So when it came to a choice between paddling a loaded canoe or rowing a loaded boat, I felt it was a better idea for me to deal with the canoe. This was Dave's first trip to my camp, after all, and I wanted him to come back.

At one point while anchored and fishing with two of the boys, a gust of wind blew across the lake. We watched Dave 100 yards away rowing for about 15 minutes against the wind, and it seemed as though he was hardly going anywhere.

Our days included fishing and swimming. The children were, of course, constantly on the move.

Still. whenever night came they had plenty of energy for S'more-making, stick-burning and bug-smoking until eventually I'd outlast them and put them to bed.

The weekend was a great time for all of us. You can view the pictures here.

To all of you folks who contribute to the Police Center, thank you for your support.

Until next time,

Officer Clarke

There's No Place Like Home

"If happy little bluebirds fly
Beyond the rainbow
Why, oh why can't I?"

- Over The Rainbow,
Yip Harburg and Harold Arlen

“Words make you think thoughts,
Music makes you feel a feeling,
But a song makes you feel a thought.”

Yip Harburg

Among my fondest childhood memories is the fun we had putting on plays.

We kids would select a play from a book that contained scripts, and choose relevant music. Then we'd divvy up the roles and practice. Sometimes we'd just act out the play for our own enjoyment. Other times, we'd decide to invite a small audience.

Before the day of the event, we'd set up the stage, create a curtain and put some chairs and benches in place in the basement. Then we'd invite neighborhood kids and put on the performance. The adults would sneak in for a view and to lend support.

Of the plays attempted, the one we kept settling on was "The Wizard of Oz". We had the movie soundtrack and used it as the background music for the singers. One of our closest neighbor friends loved to sing, and she had a lovely voice. She was also brave enough to solo, and would practice at home singing along with the record for hours. Of course, she played Dorothy, and I never tired of hearing her sing "Over the Rainbow". She always sang it with so much feeling.

These memories came to mind as I viewed an interview with Margaret Pelligrini, one of the munchkins who visited the area last weekend for "Oz Stravaganza". She proclaims that nobody can sing "Over The Rainbow" like Judy Garland did, and she has heard many try. Just a glance over the comments beneath the video of Garland's performance at it's original source shows a tiny sample of the enormous impact this song has made and continues to make on people. Whenever it is heard, it evokes some thought or feeling about home.

For some, home is where they enjoy being and long to return, where one knows they are always safe and cared for. Home may be a state of existence others desire to recapture, like the carefree, happy feeling of childhood. Even those who have had humble or less than ideal home environments seem to hold the memories of their childhood dwelling place in high regard.

Sadly, home is not that kind of place for some children growing up. It may be a place from which a child longs to escape.

For these kids, home is where their basic needs are not met. When the needs of kids are neglected, the fundamental building blocks that help them function as well-adjusted adults may not be present. If they don't develop these assets somewhere along the way, they may make wrong choices that result in other problems, including violence and crime.

The story of Bill Strickland, highlighted in the post "What One Person Can Do", illustrates how a child who is at risk of these negative outcomes can be positively influenced by other caring adults. Strickland was cared for by a teacher and his wife, who taught him important life skills and treated him like family. As a result of his experience, Strickland went on to dedicate his life to helping other children in similar circumstances receive the kind of support they need to grow and thrive as adults.

Community Policing aims to address the issues that can prevent crime through various interventions, including the placement of Policing Centers with officers assigned full-time in neighborhoods. At the Northside Community Police Center (NCPC), Officer Clarke and the volunteers effort to create an environment that welcomes kids and makes them feel cared for.

The atmosphere of events at the NCPC feels close to that of a family environment for children. The adults have a good time, too. Seeing the happy expressions on their faces is very rewarding.

The pictures and cards available, as well as blog posts (tagged "events") and Officer Clarke's quarterly letters, chronicle these events. Supporters can see their donations and efforts were worthwhile, and participants can remember the fun they had.

The times spent with other adults and children during these events may create lasting memories that these kids will recall in future years. They may even produce a "Bill Strickland" someday.

What is one of your fondest childhood memories? Share it with us in the Comments.

Bullhead Fishing Trip Pics

picnikfile_m0_-lN, originally uploaded by northsidepolice.

Pictures of the Bullhead Fishing Trip are now available on our Flickr site. Check 'em out.

What One Person Can Do

A sixteen year old growing up in inner-city Pittsburgh in the mid-sixties, who is just about flunking out of school, passes by the doorway of an art studio. There, he sees a potter at work. He's drawn inside and the course of his life changes forever.

"I said to myself, if I could ever
bring that light into my neighborhood--
bring it to people who deserved it
as much as anybody else,
and who would respond to it
as wholeheartedly and
as creatively as anybody else--
then I was halfway home."

- Bill Strickland

Happy Mother's Day

"Aisha M", originally uploaded by mosleypasley.

"To one who bears the sweetest name,
And adds a lustre to the same,
Who shares my joys and cheers when sad,
The greatest friend I ever had,
Long life to her for there's no other,
Can take the place of my dear mother."

~ Anonymous

Betts Library: A Good Bet

"Bright Red Tulip", originally uploaded by twg1942.

My recent post on Syracuse Libraries and WiFi Hotspots inspired an outing in search of the same, and open on a Sunday afternoon. Betts was the place.

A Pennsylvania bluestone patio with red tulips in bloom greets patrons entering the building from the rear parking lot. Nearby, a bench whispers an invitation to remain in the cozy courtyard and enjoy the garden awhile. This south side entrance at the intersection of the building's two wings appears to welcome patrons with open arms.

Just inside the doors, a cluster of upholstered '60's style arm chairs invites visitors to read one of the newspapers or magazine arranged neatly on racks. Straight ahead is one of three library staff persons ready to assist. Along the way are several carousels of DVD’s that cater to the typical library patron of today.

Built in 1963, Betts Library is a contemporary looking brick building with a floor plan that resembles a “T” with a tilted top. It was designed by Helen Gillespie Kotz, a Syracuse architect and partner in the firm, Gillespie and Granger, to replace the original structure built in 1949. During her career, Gillespie designed several other libraries in Syracuse and Central New York.

Inside, Betts resembles a modern lodge with high ceilings and exposed teak wood beams that wear a cedar stain. Walls of bluestone, natural materials and period furniture in solid beech evoke a Frank Lloyd Wright feeling. At either side of the “T” horizontal line, a pair of sleek stained glass transom windows add visual interest. The top portion of the eastern wall is trimmed in flagstone, with built-in bookshelves beneath. The lighting is excellent, thanks to a wall of picture windows that face the patio, and transoms that line the north side of the “T”. A fabulous Pennsylvania bluestone fireplace built into the southwest corner wall makes quite a statement.

The library was named after Frederick W. Betts, the first Trustee of the Library, whose framed photo hangs on the wall just inside the door. There is a plaque out front, but it could not be easily located among the plantings. No further historical information was available there. The Syracuse Newspapers and other sources indicate that Betts was the Chief Editorial writer for the Syracuse Herald and a minister of First Universalist Church who was active in the community. Well after Betts passed away, his wife gifted $10,000 to the library that bears his name. The interest still provides funds that help sustain it.

Betts is a great place to bring children. In front of the fireplace, a reading and learning area is designated just for them. Upholstered seating provides parents and kids with a comfortable place to read together. They can choose from an abundant selection of children’s books that are well organized and labeled on the rows and walls of cases and shelves. Several small round tables with pint sized chairs are arranged nearby, as well as a hub of four computer workstations reserved for children's use.

At least a dozen, newer technology Dell workstations with flat screen monitors are available. A staffer informed a patrons of their one hour limited use. Most of the desktop units are wisely arranged in the more shaded areas of the room, minimizing screen glare. Several workstations are labeled "15 minute express" for email or any other use people may have while on the run. These are dotted around the room. There is no contention for the computers today however, a steady stream of people has come in to use them. It's probably a different story after school.

Wireless internet access is available, and at least half of the six or seven tables of four have outlets beneath them, but they're difficult to see at first as they blend in with the carpeting. Grouping more tables near the large picture windows would allow visitors to take advantage of the natural light while enjoying an occasional glance of the patio garden. It’s a nice spot for people watching as well. On warm days, seating outdoors would be a plus.

The small number of tables available invites sharing during busy periods, which seems easily done in this comfortable space among neighborly people of all ages who came in and out to use the computers, drop off or check out books, or hang out and read for a while. One person came to receive computer instruction.

Several events are advertised in the Betts newsletter. This month they include “Buying A Digital Camera?”, a Book Discussion Group, Family Movie Night and others. "Betts Beta Fish Story Time" takes place on Thursday mornings for children 2 – 5 accompanied by a caregiver.

Although cars move quickly along the busy intersection nearby, the Valley feels very much like a solid city neighborhood, especially at the library. Nearby homes, schools, playgrounds and churches are visible from the windows. Clearly, Betts served as a hub for many families who lived in the neighborhood during the baby boom and the decades that followed.

Perhaps the neighborhood feel is nowhere better depicted than in the quilting tradition that began years ago. According to the staff, the quilting thing began with one of the librarians who regularly brought in quilts for display. Appreciation for works of art has a legacy at Betts.

Elizabeth Girard was head librarian from 1949 to 1964. She came to Betts after working at the main branch of the former Syracuse Public Library located in the old Carnegie Library building on Montgomery Street. Ms. Gerard held a Bachelor of Fine Arts from Syracuse University. Carnegie's combination library and museum provided opportunities for her to continue learning through the resources available and regular series of lunchtime lectures. Perhaps it was her enthusiasm for culture and community that had an influence on the redesign of the library so that it would include a place for lectures and exhibits. In any case, the display of handmade quilts grew into an annual event that takes place in Betts' adjoining auditorium.

This appreciation for quilting inspired the creation of the "Betts Library Quilt", a project initiated by Margaret Loomis. After quilting one square, she challenged other patrons to complete the work. It spawned a laissez-faire group of quilters to unite in 1985 in order to finish the quilt. One participant is the descendant of a Valley family with a long history: The Webster’s. Quilting became a thing for children too, as small displays of their paper and fabric quilts decorate one of the staff’s desks.

Betts is located at 4862 South Salina Street, just south of Seneca Turnpike (173). Support Betts next week as they hold their annual Book Sale.

For hours and other information, visit the Onondaga County Public Library web page on Betts Library.

Do you have any childhood memories of Betts or another library? Tell us about them in the comments.

Keep on Giving, CNY: Adult/Teen Dialogue

"May Day Basket", originally uploaded by Barbara KB.

Congratulations to all the winners of "Oprah's Big Give CNY"! A large portion of the funds are going towards youth services, and we think that's great.

We're still seeking supporters for the "Adult/Teen Dialogue" that will engage youth with supportive Law Enforcement Officers (LEO's) in a dynamic learning environment.

The goal of this program is to teach and reinforce good values in young people, strengthening their internal compasses that can result in better life choices . As a tactic in our community policing strategy, investing in youth and equipping them with the capacity to make better decisions results in lower incidences of drug and alcohol abuse, delinquency, crime and other problems.

“Instilling Positive Values” is one of the key “developmental assets” or essential building blocks that research has shown has a positive impact on the lives of youth. These assets provide a foundation for kids as they grow. Good adult role models can provide young people with guidance as they put the values they’re learning into practice. Quality adult connections provide a safety net that is especially important during the teen years.

Depending on the resources received, up to four groups of 20 youth (up to 80) will have an opportunity to go through the program, along with four groups of 10 LEO's (up to 40) who will assume the role of “Asset Builders”. Young people living on the North side of Syracuse will be targeted as a priority, as will the officers who work in community policing and other capacities with youth and families. But any teen or officer who expresses an interest in participating is encouraged to contact us.

Each of four six hour programs will begin with a three hour “Teen Night Out”, where youth will be guided by facilitators in ice-breakers and skill building exercises. These fun and challenging group activities will prepare the youth to assume leadership roles as the session progresses.

In the next three hour session the following day, teens will practice what they learned by leading officer’s through an Adult/Teen Dialogue to build greater understanding and strengthen these relationships.

The primary outcome of this program is to reinforce the value of treating others with dignity and respect in participants, and show them how to put this into practice. By getting to know one another as individuals, discussing past experiences with each other and their perceptions, communicating effectively and other learning opportunities, participants will learn to value others as individuals, and treat them with dignity and respect.

We want to make this opportunity available to any interested and motivated young person who wants to be involved in a positive program that will give them a foundation for their short and long term development.

$1,750 will make that a reality for up to 40 city youth this year who will receive an experience that can make a positive impact on their lives. $3,500 will enable us to double the amount of participants.

Equipping young people with tools needed to make better decisions can result in a healthier community for all.

If you are interested in learning more or want to participate, please email us or call (315)471-3257.

Online Safety

originally uploaded by More Than A Model:: San Francisco.

"TV Turnoff/Screen Time Reduction Week" presents an opportunity for adults to raise their awareness of online safety risks and learn the tactics that keep children safe.

Kids are choosing the Internet over TV in large numbers, making screen reduction the larger issue. In the US, 45% of children use the Internet, representing 30 million under the age of 18.

Some have Internet access through cell phones, which are very prevalent among kids. According to the Wall Street Journal, 72% of teens between ages 13 and 17 have their own cell phones, and almost 30% of those consider Web access to be an essential feature for their next phone.

Awareness has been raised to many of the Internet dangers that exist, including receiving a sexual solicitation online, being sent explicit material, cyberstalking, and other risks.

Further, most adults are aware that other forms of electronic communication, including text messaging, chatting and using Social Networking web sites, present opportunities for kids to be exposed to or engage in risky or inappropriate communication with others.

Adults may not be aware, however, that tweens and teens are at a hgher risk of being solicited and exploited by online predators, not younger children. They're also more apt to become involved in incidents of online bullying (cyberbullying) and harassment. This age group is also more tech savvy, making it a greater challenge for adults who aren't as adept to rise to the safety challenge presented by the Internet and other electronic media.

Here are a few tips:

• Begin with the basics: Know what actions are safe and what are not, and make good online habits a practice.
  

• Be aware of potential privacy exposures: Know what information to share and what not to when using sites or interacting with others. Understand what happens to information you share when using different sites.
  

• Be an example: Teaching others is more effective when you're practicing the essentials yourself, including using safe screen names and passwords. Descriptive names and words found in the dictionary are poor choices, respectively, as they are vulnerable to attack by hackers.
  

• Be skilled: Take advantage of learning tools to bridge the digital divide between yourself and the kids in your life. iSafe offers an Internet Safety curriculum designed to be taken online at your own pace. It is customized to specific audiences who may be teaching kids how to be safe online, including parents, mentors and law enforcement.

Additional resources include:

• NetSmartz 411: This site provides adults with Online Safety information and offers a searchable knowledge base on relevant topics. Learn about everything from MySpace to tracking your child's online activity. You can even ask questions to an expert using an online form or a toll-free number.

• Take 25: Offers downloadable Safety Tips for parents, including ways to keep them safe at home, online and elsewhere.

If you don't have a computer at home, they are available at your local library.

Remember, always report any incidence of computer related crime to the police.