New York is struggling to track its own AI use
Several agencies’ high-profile AI programs do not appear in the state’s AI inventory.
LATEST REPORTING
How much did taxpayers pay for former Syracuse Housing Authority Executive Director Bill Simmons to retire?
As part of his separation agreement, Simmons received more than $90,000 for what appeared to be nearly six months of accrued vacation time.
Sean Kirst: What seemed impossible then is about to happen. It’s 25 years since Van Robinson made a public call to pull down I-81
In 2001, Robinson saw forces coming together that would allow his longtime dream to become a 2026 reality.
Axon license plate readers go live in Syracuse. State legislator calls it ‘a constant, warrantless surveillance system’
The Syracuse police department confirmed Axon readers became active Monday morning.
I-81 AND PUBLIC HOUSING COVERAGE
Brandon Hanks, SHA host last 10K tournament at Wilson Park for the foreseeable future
The Syracuse police officer said he’s looking for a place to host next year’s tournament, which has traditionally been held at Wilson Park.
How $3.7M owed by the state DOT to the Syracuse Housing Authority could ease SHA budget constraints
SHA expects to receive nearly $3.7 million for these properties, also called easements from New York State Department of Transportation.
Meet Syracuse Housing Authority’s new interim executive director Jalyn Clifford
Longtime SHA Executive Director Bill Simmons retired, effective July 10. Jalyn Clifford, the former deputy executive director, took over for Simmons.
CULTURE
Sean Kirst: Orphaned at 11, a Manlius woman’s World War II journey in ‘footsteps’ of Buffalo parents she dearly missed
Mary Ward’s mom and dad worked side-by-side in an American combat field hospital. Until last week, Mary still had her mom’s wedding dress, made of silk from a German parachute.
Sean Kirst: A Kirk Park gathering Saturday to unveil memorial for Al Turner, ‘who got the soul of it’ in community he loved
Whether it was On Point for College or the Inner-City Rotary, a guy who did the quiet civic work that matters most.
Sean Kirst: A goodbye to one-of-a-kind bond shaped by mismatched feet, though friendship goes on as legend
One man wore shoe size 13 left, size 9 right, the other the opposite. A seemingly difficult physical barrier became the bedrock of an extraordinary alliance.
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: The passing of Tom Coulter, ‘king’ of boxing, who taught so many youths the great lessons of the ring
A funeral Mass will be held Aug. 10 for Coulter, a national boxing legend, beloved co-owner of the old Remedy tavern and a guy who knew being rich had nothing to do with money.
Sean Kirst: At Clinton Square roller rink, for a city and its children, the shared goal of ‘staying up’
Envisioned as a bright and brief chance for community, roller skating takes on deeper meaning in a hard week in Syracuse.
Sean Kirst: On Father’s Day, John Kucko’s daughters see even deeper beauty and meaning in the landscape
Family messages of love and gratitude to their dad, beloved digital storyteller in recovery from brain surgery.







