The Cosmos Crisis

For over 60 years, Cosmos American Diner has been a treasured landmark of the SU campus and community. The relished eatery was famous for its cinnamon buns and. The perfect place to pig out or cure a hangover, or so everyone thought, was deemed the “best” for its food and location/accessibility to students.

After a March 6, 2013 less-than-mediocre health and safety inspection, regular customers were horrified and shocked by the news. Of these shocking and disgusting discoveries, perhaps most disheartening was the finding of “three dead mice noted near upstairs mop sink (aka near customers) and mouse droppings noted on canned goods in basement, on shelving areas at front service line” AND…wait for it…"in pizza preparation corner."

Call me crazy, but one would think that after such an atrocious report, the diner would be shut down immediately, or at least close until fully rectifying situations at the diner. This did not happen, which definitely surprised, confused, and appalled many all at once. The diner's lack of response to this report was alarming too. The only 'action' Cosmos took was simply obliging to state regulations by posting the report in their front window. I know I speak for many of its loyal cliental when I say that is not too relieving. 

Bring Back Pickles!

Hello Readers!

As you all know, How I See It was founded to give readers its idealistic vision of SU's campus and its surrounding areas. It is only natural that some missing elements, vital to our vision, frustrate us the most since its presence is lacking and much needed.

You can only imagine our frustration with lack of a good old Jewish Deli in the town. You too have probably found yourself in your own "pickle," feeling there is NO place to turn to satisfy the Sunday morning craving for New York bagels and locks. We found this surprising, as there is a large Jewish community in the Syracuse area.

Pickles Kosher Deli was once a central location for Syracuse's Jewish community members right next to the Shaarei Torah Orthodox Congregation of Syracuse, and across the street from Carvel. (Carvel is also Kosher). The closing of Pickles Kosher Deli has inconvenienced Kosher-observers and non-observers, and even non-Jews who long for Jewish deli delights.

The need for a Kosher deli is large in the Syracuse community. Though stores like Wegmans do have Kosher sections, the options are limited at best. And, the quality of these foods do not resemble those of a quality Jewish deli.

Zabar's, a Kosher delights hotspot in New York City.

Inside a Jewish Deli in New York City.

We MUST restore the beloved Pickles Jewish Deli of Syracuse! Lovers of Jewish delicatessens cannot drive hundreds of miles for top-notch Kosher delights.

CHU AT SU

Jeff Chu, Fast Company’s editor-at-large and author of “Does Jesus Really Love Me?: A Gay Christian’s Pilgrimage in Search of God in America” was hosted by the S.I. Newhouse School of Public Communications to speak about his journalistic experience that put him on an unparalleled professional and personal journey.

Raised in a Baptist family, Chu shared with attendees his family’s struggle to accept his homosexuality, as devout lovers of Jesus. Being both gay and Christian, Chu shared with the audience how he grappled with reporting on something so personal to his own life. Accustomed to wearing objective reporting lenses, Chu shared how until writing his book, he had never endured such difficulty writing objectively. He said, “It’s easy to put on the journalist persona when you’re reporting about things that aren’t about whether or not you’re going to hell.”

Jeff Chu’s talk was invaluable to Newhouse students, speaking to them on both professional and personal levels. His messages about reporting, and his struggle to report objectively as a journalist given such a personal matter, resonated with students and other attendees.

"Christianity &the experiences of gay people are so diverse...I was writing abt whether or not I was going hell...it was emotional" #ChuatSU

— Kate Brodock (@Just_Kate) October 15, 2013

Chu reflects on his relationship w/ his family. He is glad he didn't walk away from his family when he came out. #ChuatSU

— Ian Simon-Curry (@incrediblyian) October 15, 2013

"Reporting is finding other people's stories" #ChuatSU

— JaShel Jones (@JaShelJ04) October 15, 2013

American Apparel

Have you ever found yourself in a bind, searching for that accessory you can't seem to find in your closet, but would complement your outfit perfectly? You have that accessory in mind- but perhaps the friend who you might borrow it from needs it at the same as you since you'll both be attending the upcoming Avicii concert. Or, maybe you just need a new sweatshirt to gear up for the cold winter season ahead. How I See It? You must visit American Apparel. American Apparel is your one-stop-shop destination for any and all of our wardrobe's needs. The only problem? We need one in Syracuse!


Check out some of our favorite American Apparel items:

The Nylon Cordura Fanny Pack

This is a great investment for the perfect accessory for concerts, hiking. They are $22 and wear really well. It provides fashionable convenience for times when carrying a purse is not an option, or will be a struggle. They adorable hands-free accessory come in various color combinations, and are definitely worth checking out.











We also love the Unisex Flex Fleece Zip Hoodie. With more than 30 color options to choose from, the cozy sweatshirt from American Apparel is sure to keep you warm during the cold winter days ahead. Throw one on with a pair of leggings and snow boots to class or on your way to the gym. The fleece hoodies are great trendy winter staples for days spent snuggling up on the couch, or hitting the town. And, celebrities love them too! Get yours before the snow hits.

Purple Unisex Fleece Zip Hoodie

Katy Perry sporting the Zip Hoodie

Finally, a classic and timeless staple for any closet is the Cotton Spandex Jersey Double U-Neck Dress.

The classy, super-flattering U-Neck Dress can be worn as a little black dress, and be dressed up or down for any occasion. It is perfect outfit for a night out on the town, worn with a pair of killer heels. You can even put on a statement necklace to style it up further. Are you considering a more casual look? Throw the U-Neck Dress under a sweater, or pair it with leggings and boots to achieve the daytime look.

Those who are already American Apparel fans, aren't you sick of resorting to online shopping or waiting until you are back in your hometown to shop for your favorite accessories? Help us See It and spread the word for an American Apparel in Syracuse!

Baked by Melissa

You may know her as a fellow-Orangeman, a Newhouse alum, or your AEPhi sorority sister. For those of you who do not know her at all. I am sure you know her cupcakes though! Meet the genius baker and cupcake extraordinaire Baked by Melissa's Melissa Bushell. 

After Melissa graduated SU, she began pursuing her 'dream' advertising career at a firm in New York City. When she and advertising did not mesh, she was let go from her job. At the time she thought it was a dead end, and had no idea that the rest of her life was just beginning. Understandably distraught after packing up her cubicle, Melissa decided to drown her sorrows in a mixing bowl and measuring cup. That night she made 200 tie-dye cupcakes, in an attempt to feel better. Little did she know those tie-dye bite-sized cupcakes would be the signature cupcake of her soon to be born empire.

Baked by Melissa's signature Tie-Dye cupcake.

With the help of some family and friends, Melissa soon realized cupcakes were her destiny. She launched her first Baked by Melissa store in Soho, New York.

The mini stuffed quarter-sized bites of heaven took off by storm. With 9 original flavors and a 10th  new "Mini of the Month"each month, Baked by Melissa also offers customization cupcakes for large orders and seasonal cupcakes during the holiday seasons.

Travel packs for shipping and those on the run.

Baked by Melissa now has over 10 locations, mainly in New York City, with its most recent ones at JFK Airport and the Garden State Plaza in New Jersey. They ship nation-wide for those of us still up here in Syracuse, but it would definitely be a perfect addition to the area.

5 Fun Fall Activities You Must Do - in Syracuse!

For this week's blog, How I See It is taking a slightly different approach from its usual sharing of venues that reflect ways in which Syracuse is lacking. Instead, we at How I See It, would like to share 5 of our favorite activities that will keep students, faculty, locals, and families busy from the minute school starts and throughout the holiday season. Trust us, they are all things you don't want to miss out on. Check it out:

1.) New York State Fair

The highly anticipated end-of-summer fair comes at no better time! Before schedules get jam-packed and school work starts to overwhelm, set aside a day for all the fun the notorious Syracuse fair has to offer. There are various rides for all ages and comfort levels - even ones that can excite daredevils.  You can watch live concerts, play games, get your palm, sit for a caricature, pose in photo-booths and get your face painted too. Spare yourself the guilt, and indulge in mouth-watering fried Oreos, oozing mac and cheese bites, delicious funnel cakes, and wine slushies (if you are at least 21, of course!).

2.) Apple Picking at Abbott Farms

When the leaves start to fall, visit Abbott Farms to choose from wide selections of fresh apples. Take a ride on the hay-ride tractor, explore the corn maze, and pick pumpkins. On your way out, make sure to stop by the Abbott Farms Bakery to take home one of their amazing delicacies. I highly recommend the apple pie and fudge treats.

3.) Destiny USA

In last week's post, How I See It discussed the expansion of the Carousel Mall, now called Destiny USA. Filled with shops and activities, spend a day playing games at famous arcade Dave and Busters, exploring the world of WonderWorks and riding go karts at Pole Position Raceway. Finish a day at Destiny USA in the new IMAX theater.

4.) A Day in Skaneateles 

 

Known for its picturesque views and outdoor activities, Skaneateles is the perfect place conveniently located right by Syracuse. Outdoor lovers should go kayaking across the pristine lake, go fishing or hiking. The town itself is a great place to walk around, with great shops and restaurants.

5.) Iceskating in Armory Square

Who needs Rockefeller Center? The Clinton Square Ice Rink in Armory Square is an outdoor ice-skating rink. Eager to get your skates on? Just wait until it is cold enough for the ice. Trust us, you sure won't be waiting around for too long!

Enjoy these 5 fun fall activities that already exist in Syracuse. Remember, How I See It only looks to enhance Syracuse. We think it is pretty good as it is. After all, it does have these 5 great activities. But all good things can be made even better. Right? Have fun with these and share your fun fall experiences with us.

SoulCycle: Let's Move and Groove!

Now that the leaves are starting to fall, many of us are struggling to keep our summer glows and bikini bodies.

How I See It finds no better time than to bring you SoulCycle.

For those of you who do not know, SoulCycle is an indoor cycling full-body workout on stationary bikes. That is just what it is on the surface. But, those who know Soul, know it is so much more than that. Classes are dance parties on bikes. The energy and enthusiasm are infectious. The fun makes it hard to believe sometimes that it is a workout. But, don't be thinking it's a breeze either. You will be challenged and the results will be equally rewarding.

So, why do we See It for Syracuse? First, many of the places in Syracuse that have group classes workouts, are far from campus. Places like Gold's Gym and Aspen Athletic Club certainly are not within walking distance, and require memberships. At SoulCycle, spinners have the choice to pay by the class or to purchase a series of classes. Though classes are a pricey $34, they are completely worth the sacrifice! Buying class series make individual classes cheaper, and SoulCycle often offers various promotions to ease the cost. How I See It suggests starting a pop-up SoulCycle studio on a trial basis for one year.

How I See It, sees this as a perfect time for such an endeavor, particularly in reaching out to students. The new SU campus fitness center will not open until sometime in summer 2014. The proposed SoulCycle pop-up would be a perfect addition to Marshall Square Mall, providing convenient access to students, faculty, and Syracuse locals to be able to go in between classes or during lunch breaks. The full-bathrooms and lockers make it easier than ever to squeeze in a quick workout in the midst of a hectic day, without having to worry about running back to residence halls or apartments to shower and change before your next class.

We See a Soul on the horizon now more than ever! To learn more about SoulCycle, click here. As always, feel free to let us know how YOU See It, and check out next week's vision!