Cathy Crisafulli’s Block Receives Fulton Block Builder Pride Grant to Assist State Street Church

Cathy Crisafulli is a 2022 Fulton Block Builder (FBB) Block Leader who for the past two years has led her block to apply for a FBB Pride Grant to assist State Street United Methodist Church. “The church is a historical building in our neighborhood and does so much good for the community. Our block wanted to ‘give back’. Each year the FBB Pride Grant has helped the church with much needed repairs such as brick pointing, painting and new clothing drop box.  What’s more, our block participants personally helped purchase plants for landscaping and provided tools to the parish.”

Membership in the State Street United Methodist Church may be small but are mighty in their contributions to the community. They offer free monthly dinners, support the Salvation Army soup kitchen, donate much needed items to people displaced by house fires, collect clothing for the needy via a parking lot drop box, host Blood Drives, Boy Scout meetings and rummage sales. This year, when the parishioners learned that there would be no meat in the Salvation Army’s holiday food boxes, they donated $2,000.

Board of Director, Jim Lindsley called Linda Eagan, FBB Director, to thank FBB for the support and the FBB Pride Grants. “The church has been able to do more in the community. It’s not just about fixing up the church, everything is compounded because we can do more with our church funds,” said Lindsley. “We are a small congregation of about 25, but we do a LOT! Our parish invites anyone seeking to find a church home that is welcoming, active, caring, and vibrant to join us on Sunday mornings at 11:00am. The Fulton Block Builders Program is so important to Fulton’s revitalization efforts, and we are grateful to have this program in our community. We want to express our heartfelt thanks to Cathy Crisafulli and Fulton Block Builders for their support of the State Street Church.”

If you’d like to learn more visit:

Fulton Block Builders: https://www.fultonblockbuilders.com/

State Street Church : www.facebook.com/StateStreetUMCFulton/

Fulton Block Builder participants support State Street Church. From left to right are Tony DiMasi (FBB,) Anne Smith (FBB), Jim Lindsley (Church), Marjorie McEwen (Church), Cathy Crisafulli (FBB), Barb Truax (Church), Jerry Truax (Church) and Pat Laxton (Church).

Fulton Block Builder selected as a CenterState CEO 2022 Economic Champion

The Fulton Block Builder (FBB) program was recently honored to be selected as an “Economic Champion” by CenterState CEO. Economic Champions are CNY businesses and organizations that      have added employees, started a new business, expanded operations, made capital expenditures, or received state or national recognition for company accomplishments or other significant milestones and achievements.

“FBB is proud of our National Awards, but most importantly proud of the positive changes we have brought to the Fulton community” said Linda Eagan FBB Director. “In 2022 alone there was a half million-dollar investment and more than $3 million since our start in 2017”. As Robert Simpson, president of CenterState CEO said these investments are the result of our community taking a chance, year after year. Those commitments have positioned our region to be the kind of place that can attract one of the largest economic development projects in the nation, Micron.

CenterState CEO hosted its annual Economic Champions Celebration, presented by Fust Charles Chambers LLP, at the Oncenter, recognizing the collective contributions of 421 companies and organizations to the growth and vibrancy of the Central New York economy.

 Together, these nominees were recognized for their aggregate hiring of more than 5,000 employees, over 5.8 million square-feet of expansions, and over $1 billion in capital investments. In a sign of positive economic momentum, 121 businesses were recognized for opening new storefronts, offices and facilities; 76 were highlighted for celebrating a milestone anniversary; 102 were recognized for receiving significant awards and achievements and 52 organizations and firms were noted for companies advancing diversity, equity and inclusion in their workplaces and community. “As a leader in the Fulton community, Fulton Block Builders is proud to have inspired neighborhoods to invest in the revitalization of our city and to have our work recognized as an Economic Champion” concluded Eagan.

Fulton Block Builders (FBB)are recognized as an CenterState CEO Economic Champion. From left to right are FBB volunteers David Phares, Tonya Crisafulli, Greg Bailey, Linda Eagan, Mike Peterson, Karen Perwitz and Kelly Niccoli.

Brookfield Renewable Partners with Fulton Block Builders to Sponsor Riverside Avenue Block

The Riverside Avenue Fulton Block Builder (FBB) group had some special guests at their celebration picnic. Mark Luciano Brookfield Renewable’s Stakeholder Relations Manager, traveled from Saratoga, N.Y. to present the group with a check for $5,500. Riverside is located on the west side of the Oswego River between Mill Apartments and the Polish Home.

“Brookfield is dedicated to making positive economic, social and environmental impacts within the communities that host our facilities” Luciano said. “We are very pleased to be able to support the residents of Riverside Avenue, a wonderful neighborhood a short distance away from a Brookfield hydro plant. We look forward to continuing our partnership with Fulton Block Builders and choosing another block to support next year.”

Assemblyman Will Barclay’s Community Relation Director, Brittany Jerred, was thankful for the invitation and commented, “What a great turnout for the picnic. It looks like all the neighbors are here. And Block Leaders Annie Noel and Toni Ross are such great hosts. Very uplifting to see. It was nice to meet Mark Luciano too.  Assemblyman Barclay continues to be amazed at ALL the great things FBB has done.”

Fulton 2nd Ward Councilor Doug Chapman congratulated the group on all the work they have completed and welcomed all the residents to reach out to him at any time. Linda Eagan thanked the speakers for their amazing support and all of the Block participants for their hard work. “It’s very noticeable and impressive,” said Eagan.

The Block leaders presented all of the participants with an American Eagle yard flag. Annie Noel said “People from all around come to our block to watch the eagles fly over the river. Toni and I thought it would be great if we all had eagle flags to show our unity.”

Mark Luciano, Brookfield Renewable Relations Manager, joins Brittany Jerred, NYS Assemblyman Barclay’s Community Relations Manager; Doug Chapman, Fulton Second Ward Councilor; Linda Eagan, Fulton Block Builder Director and all the participants of the 2022 Fulton Riverside Avenue Block

Fulton Block Builder Neighborhood Block Celebrations Continue

As part of the Fulton Block Builder (FBB) program, in addition to working together and sharing resources to improve the exteriors of their homes, participating homeowners plan a celebratory event. Shannon Sawyer is the Block leader for a very active group on Batavia and Fulton Avenues     had this to say about her neighborhood's celebration. “Even though we cannot apply for FBB next year (we’re completing our 2nd year now), we are still planning to continue our neighborhood get togethers. I will make sure everyone gets lots of invites! Our neighborhood looks soooo good, FBB is such an amazing project!”

This neighborhood group also took up a playground collection for Granby School, raising money to support the school’s purchase of more playground equipment. “Our Block Builder Neighborhood is thrilled to offer the Granby PTG a $415 donation to improve the playground area” continued Sawyer. “Our neighborhood chose to donate to the Granby PTG, since the PTG and the school have played such a big part in our lives, and our neighborhood. We understand that the playground is not only used by the students, but also the children and families of our community.”

Gladys Daniels another homeowner in this neighborhood, told Linda Eagan, FBB Director, that FBB has helped her so much these past two years. She was able to repair eaves, install gutters and doors, rebuild her entrance steps and seal her driveway. Plus, she got to meet more neighbors! Len and Wanda Langdon purchased their house last year after it had sat vacant for 5 years. “It is exhilarating to see this house so full of love and care,” said Eagan. “If we had a most improved award, the Langdons would certainly be top runners. All of the changes on this block are beautiful. I agree with Shannon, the neighborhood looks soooo good.”

The Sawyer Block has lots to celebrate. Back Row: Stephanie Donnelly, Heidi Pafumi, Matthew Sawyer, Shannon Sawyer, Todd Sawyer, Brenda Tomlinson, Cindy Garrett, Tony Pafumi, Mike Smith. Front Row: Gladys Daniels, Brandi Donnelly, Pat Kerr, Becca Smith, Sharon Hoadley

Fulton Block Builders Working with 56 Landlords to Improve Their Rental Properties

Each year since the Fulton Block Builder (FBB) program began in 2017, landlords have been encouraged to participate in the blocks that organize. “FBB feels strongly that tenants and landlords are important aspects of a healthy city and therefore encourages landlords to participate and tenants to join the celebratory events,” said Linda Eagan, FBB Director. “A good landlord not only makes sure their property is clean, tidy and well presented, but is quick to repair and maintain anything that goes wrong. Having the sense that you are a valued part of the community is more likely to make one a good tenant.”

Fulton Block Builders is built on the theories and practices outlined in Healthy Neighborhoods by Donald Boehlke. Boehlke states “Neighborhoods can’t thrive unless houses retain or increase their value and unless enough residents are committed to maintaining their homes and overseeing their communities.” Here in the city of Fulton, landlords like Dean Distin are doing just that. In 2022, twelve landlords are making improvements to their rental properties. Improvements like new porches and entries as Distin has done. Other upgrades this year include painting, landscaping, house washing, new windows, roof cleaning/repair and improved doors and walkways.

ANY Block in the city can begin organizing for 2023 and apply for a Block Challenge Grant. Call (315) 529-9181 to learn HOW or find more information at: https://www.fultonblockbuilders.com/ or on our Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/fultonblockbuilders/

Dean Distin improved his rental property with the help of the Fulton Block Builder program.

Fulton Block Builder Block Celebrations Begin

As part of the Fulton Block Builder program, participating homeowners are asked to work together, share resources, and plan a celebratory event in addition to the exterior improvements they make on their homes. Michelle Narad is the Block leader for a very active group near Lanigan School and they recently had a celebration dinner at the home of Tom and Sue Brown. The occasion also gave the group an opportunity to support local businesses, including food from Mimi’s, Mama Gina’s and Kathy’s Cakes. The group agreed that everything was delicious.

This neighborhood group also held a garage sale at Lanigan School in July, raising $1,100 to purchase picnic tables for the students and teachers. “The teachers expressed an interest in holding class sessions outside in the good weather but would have to sit on the ground, which was not inclusive for all students” said Narad. “Picnic tables seemed like a natural solution, so we got on it. What’s more, when Councilor Ethan Parkhurst heard what our Block was doing, he volunteered his time to paint and seal the tables. The result is beautiful.”

With efforts such as this, the seeds for reclaiming Fulton have been planted and now they are blooming. The community involvement that is brought about through Fulton Block Builders positively weaves the economic, cultural, civic, and societal fabric of our community. The volunteer staff and leaders of Fulton Block Builders couldn’t have asked for a stronger support from everyone in the area.

Tom and Sue Brown host the Block party to celebrate the great work their neighborhood has completed.

Fulton Block Builders partners with Fulton Porchfest through a Pride Grant

Fulton Block Builders will once again partner with Fulton Porchfest and Fulton Chalkfest, helping to present Downbeat Percussion, and purchase much needed supplies for the event, like chalk! Both events will take place simultaneously in and around Voorhees Park on July 10, 2022 from Noon to 5.

Porchfest is a grassroots community music festival where front porches become stages, yards become venues and generosity and good will rule the day. Rain or shine, attendees will see musical performances, free of charge. All are urged to bring your own chair to take with you as you move from porch to porch. Food and water will be offered for purchase.

“We want this to be a fun day for all ages” said organizer Tonya Crisafulli. “Chalk will be available throughout the Porchfest venue, and all are encouraged to be creative. Downbeat Percussion will lead everyone in a drum circle for the Porchfest finale. Buckets and drumstick will be on hand, and attendees are encouraged to bring their own drums, bongos, and tambourines to join in the fun.”

If you’d like to learn more visit:

Fulton Porchfest: www.fultonporchfest.com

Fulton Porchfest drum circle was great fun in 2021 and will be again in 2022

Penny Halstead’s Block Receives a Fulton Block Builder Pride Grant to Assist the Fulton American Legion

Penny Halstead is a 2022 Fulton Block Builder (FBB) Block Leader and was moved when she heard about the work that the Fulton American Legion was looking to complete. Her Block applied for an FBB Pride Grant to help pay for the exterior improvements being made on the building at Holly Drive and Oneida Street. “My dad was an Army veteran who passed away a few months ago. It would have made him proud to know that I was involved in a project like this. Peter Allen and all the volunteers have done an amazing job. I’m happy that we could help support the American Legion with this pride grant,” said Halstead.

“The members of the Fulton American Legion have noticed all of the positive changes happening in Fulton, thanks to the Fulton Block Builder program and we wanted to be part of the transformation,” said Peter Allen, Fulton Veteran of the year. “Fulton Legion members do so much for our community, and we are proud to be able to give back to those who have done so much. Legion members selflessly serve day in and day out by supporting local events, educating children in our schools, honoring veterans in our community, placing flags in local cemeteries, and providing honor guards for funerals.”

The American Legion Post is located at 873 Oneida St in Fulton. The project work is well underway and includes paving and improving the parking lot, installing a new walkway, providing landscaping to beautify the area and prevent foundational erosion of the building, and other outdoor items such as paint, fixtures, seasonal items, etc. to improve the appearance of the property. Last week nearly a dozen Fulton Block Builder volunteers helped the Legion complete the first phase of the project, and the public is encouraged stop by and view the new landscaping and other improvements.

“The Fulton Block Builders Program is so important to Fulton’s revitalization efforts, and we are grateful to have this program in our community. We want to express our heartfelt thanks to Penny Halstead and Fulton Block Builders for their support of the Legion improvement project” said Post Commander, Larry Macner.

“We are a community that works together” said one of the many volunteers working on the Fulton American Legion facelift