Community Bank Supports Fulton Block Builders, Encourages Others to Do So

Kayla Baker, Savannah Norton, Ashly Jewell and Danaia Terramiggi from Community Bank-Fulton Branch, are seen here after presenting Linda Eagan, FBB Administrative Director with the check

Community Bank N.A has once again donated $5,000.00 to the Fulton Block Builders (FBB) program.

“FBB is thrilled to have the continued support of Community Bank,” said Linda Eagan, FBB Administrative Director. “This year, the fundraising committee seeks to raise $50,000 in order to realize the full Richard S. Shineman Foundation matching grant. Community Bank’s support of this program is greatly appreciated.

“FBB is making significant differences in our community,” Eagan continued. “In 2021, there was nearly 700K invested in Fulton’s participating properties! For every dollar invested by Fulton Block Builders, property owners invested four times that amount.”

“This is the 6th year Community Bank has donated to the Fulton Block Builders program and we’re honored to support them,” said Kayla Baker, Fulton Branch Manager. “Their neighborhood revitalization program is an important initiative that builds the Fulton community now and for the future.”

“The support for the FBB is clear demonstration of this passion” Baker continued.

Become part of this exciting chapter of Fulton’s history by donating to the 2022 Campaign today. What’s even more exhilarating is that every dollar you donate is matched 2-to-1 by the Richard S. Shineman Foundation. Remember, donations are tax deductible and, since FBB operates with an all-volunteer staff, 100 percent of financial support goes directly to the Block Challenge grants and promotion of the program.

FBB donations can be made on the website at: https://www.fultonblockbuilders.com/donate/

Or make checks should be made payable to: CenterState CEO Foundation Inc.-Fulton Block Builders, 115 W. Fayette Street, Syracuse, New York 13202

Fulton Block Builders receives a $500 donation from Davis-Standard

Chris Weaver, Fulton Block Builder volunteer, receives a check from Jessica Q. Kolenda, Davis-Standard HR Manager for the 2022 program.

“The fundraising has started for the 2022 Fulton Block Builder (FBB) program, and we are very happy to announce Davis-Standard’s support” said Weaver of the FBB Fundraising Committee. “The support of local businesses is so important for us reach our $50,000 goal and realize the entire Richard S. Shineman match.”

Davis-Standard is a global leader in design, development and distribution of extrusion and converting technology. “We believe the future is bright because it is full of promise. Evolving demands are reshaping the way organizations compete and stimulating a new wave of thinking and product innovation. Davis Standard is proud to be a world leader in making product-ideas-real-business” Kolenda shared. “We think FBB is an innovative leader in community revitalization and are happy to support this transformative program.”

The FBB Block Challenge application process encourages groups of neighbors to collaborate, build confidence in Fulton’s neighborhoods and inspire others to reinvest. FBB does not approach groups and ask them to apply. Deciding to submit an application is a neighborhood decision. FBB encourages all neighborhoods to apply by completing the first application due on March 4th.  To learn more about the program visit the FBB website: https://www.fultonblockbuilders.com/apply/ .

FBB donations can be made on the website at: https://www.fultonblockbuilders.com/donate/

Or by mail, send checks to:

CenterState CEO Foundation, Inc.

Fulton Block Builders

115 W. Fayette Street

Syracuse, New York 13202

Exelon Awards Fulton Block Builders a $5,000 Grant Award

“Exelon expressed interest in the Fulton Block Builders (FBB) project in 2020 and encouraged FBB to apply for a grant in 2021” said Linda Eagan, FBB founder and director. “Exelon considers its responsibility to improve the quality of life for people in the communities where their employees live, work and serve. Exelon made the 2021 Fulton Block Builder (FBB) Powering Communities Award due to the enrichment through local vitality that FBB is helping to bring about.”

Through Block Challenge and Pride Grants, FBB is incentivizing clusters of neighbors to invest together. Since the start in 2017, FBB has awarded nearly 800 Block Challenge Grants, totaling just over a half million dollars and resulting in total investment by residents of 2 million dollars. Although each participant is required to invest an amount equal to the Block Challenge award, the residents’ confidence grew so quickly that by 2020 they were investing $3.70 for every $1.00 FBB awarded.

“Exelon Generation is committed to the enrichment of the communities where we operate and are proud to provide support to organizations making a difference,” said Susan Brannan Cole, Senior Regional Communications Specialist, for Exelon Generation. “We also encourage our employees to support organizations that they care about through volunteer service and provide opportunities for company-sponsored volunteerism and matching financial support. The Fulton Block Builder program is an excellent example of a local group making a big impact in the community and we are proud to support their work.”

Huhtamaki Supports Fulton Block Builders in More Ways Than One

Fulton, NY - Mark Southwick and Joe McConnell recently presented Linda Eagan with a check for $1,000.00 to support the Fulton Block Builder (FBB) matching grant program.

“We recognize that our communities strengthen when we work as a team to build commonalities and support the causes that are essential for community health and vitality. One of our core values is to treat our world with respect. That means caring about each other, the environment and the communities where we do business. FBB’s mission to Restore City Pride -One Block at a Time is a program Huhtamaki is proud to support. We are especially proud of the resident’s support and belief in their community and properties, by resident’s investing three times the amount of the grant funds in 2017” said Southwick.

In addition to the financial support Mark and Joe spent time learning about the program from Linda and John and brainstormed more ways that Huhtamaki could lend more support to this program.

One of the most exciting ideas to come out of the session was Huhtamaki’s suggestion to help FBB advertise during the period that FBB applications are being accepted (January through March.)

Eagan and Munk both praised this idea as many in the community are still unaware of the program.

“Every way we can get the word out will help. FBB wants every homeowner in the city to know about this new community revitalization program and have the opportunity to apply. Putting a banner on the Huhtamaki building will be like having our own billboard” said Eagan.

The FBB Block Challenge is a neighborhood revitalization program that encourages groups of neighbors to collaborate on exterior improvements to their properties in order to build confidence in Fulton’s neighborhoods and inspire others to reinvest.

Each participating property owner in a Challenge Block is eligible to receive a dollar-for-dollar match on exterior improvements (visible from the street), up to $1,000.

If $500 is spent, a $250 match will be made. If $2,000 or more is spent the match will be $1,000. (minus taxes.)

Tips for a Competitive Application and Pre-applications are available on the FBB website: https://www.fultonblockbuilders.com/apply/

Huhtamaki proudly bears the name of its founder, Mr. Heikki Huhtamäki.

Young Heikki, a village baker’s son, established Huhtamäki Industries in 1920 in Kokkola, Finland.

Ever since then, they’ve followed his spirit of adventure in exploring new opportunities across the world. Their purpose is to help great products reach more people, more easily.

Today Huhtamaki operates around the world, manufacturing in six continents.

They continue to form important partnerships and to make acquisitions where it counts for their customers, as well as growing organically.

Right now, Huhtamaki is growing its presence in fast-growing regions, including Africa and the Middle East, making them well placed to serve both global and local customers.

Mark Southwick, Huhtamaki Plant Manager and Joe McConnell Operations Manager are seen here with Linda Eagan, Fulton Block Builders (FBB) Administrative Director. Along with them is John Munk Huhtamaki Graphics Coordinator. John is also an FBB volunteer.

Fulton Block Builder- receives support from many community businesses taking them closer and closer to their fundraising goal.

Linda Eagan receives donation from Zach Menter, President and CEO of Oswego County Ambulance Service. This donation makes Menter a NEIGHBORHOOD PRIDE LEADER as a Fulton Block Builder (FBB) Sponsor. Oswego County Ambulance Service, locally known as Menter Ambulance Service, is a private ambulance service whose main headquarters is in Fulton, NY. Their service provides Advanced Life Support emergency ambulance transport, and non-emergent transportation. Zach said he’s been watching the changes brought about by the Block Builder program and wanted to become involved. Linda thanks Zach for the very generous donation. Every dollar FBB raises is matched 2-to-1 by the Shineman Foundation up to $100,000.00.

Jennifer Whalen from FBB is seen here with Chris Sachel after receiving a BLOCK BUILDER donation from Mimi’s Diner. Patrons of Mimi’s will find delicious sandwiches and other American favorites at Mimi's Drive Inn in Fulton. Prices at Mimi's are a bargain, so you'll have plenty of cash left over to treat a friend (or two). Mimi's Drive Inn is a great place to go for lunch or dinner, so make your way over to the restaurant today and munch on an American classic. And let Chris and the gang know how much you appreciate their support of the Fulton Block Builder program!

Eryl Christiansen and Regina Lunkenheimer,Eastern Shore Associates pose with Jennifer as she thanks them for becoming the newest FBB RENOVATOR  supporter.  Eastern Shore is an organization with over 80 insurance professionals operating from 7 branch offices throughout Central and Upstate New York. They work with over 30 insurance companies, giving Them the ability to find the best solution to each of their customers' insurance needs. The employees live and work in the same communities as their customers, and are dedicated to helping protect the homes, automobiles, businesses, and lives of our neighbors. Supporting the FBB project is a natural for Eryl and Regina and the entire Eastern Shore team.

Uniforms Etc. team - Michaelanne Vail, Kiyara Moore, Jill Abbott-owner, Patrick Aquaviva and Michaelene Vail are proud their company is a SUPPORTER of FBB.  Uniform’s Etc. is a custom embroidery and custom screen printing workshop that takes pride in creating unique embroidered and screen-printed designs for all your apparel and gift item needs. Their custom embroidery and custom screen printing is considered the state of the art in value, quality and service. They even made the FBB name tag Jennifer’s is wearing!

If you, your business or your service agency is interested in donating and/or providing discounts to participants, please e-mail FBB at fultonblockbuilders@gmail.com.

Fulton Block Builders receive support from Sweet-Woods Memorial Co. in Phoenix, New York

Fulton Block Builders has been receiving strong support from within the Fulton city limits. But for the second year in a row, business support has come from outside of the city with a donation from Sweet-Woods Memorial Co. in Phoenix. Dennis Goss, owner/operator of Sweet-Woods Memorial Co. in Phoenix is shown here presenting Linda Eagan with a check for the Fulton Block Builder project. “I am honored to support the Block Builder program. The work that this group has been able to accomplish is outstanding! I believe the potential for year two will far exceed the work that was done in the inaugural year. The city is lucky to have such a dedicated group of people volunteering for this program. I encourage businesses and individuals to learn all they can and support this momentum!” said Goss.

“Dennis is a strong advocate for the city and residents in Fulton. As a Rotarian he can be seen volunteering in Fulton Youth Soccer, Fulton YMCA, OCO Bowl-A-Thon, ARC of Oswego County, Fulton Public Library, Catholic Charities, Salvation Army, Fulton Polish Home, Fulton American Legion, Literacy Volunteers, the Salvation Army and filling Blizzard Bags for shut-ins throughout Oswego County. Dennis is an excellent example of community activism, we can’t thank him enough for this support.” Eagan said.

The Pre-Application deadline is March 16th. It is very important for blocks to get organized and gather signatures from their neighbors.  This first step does not commit a home owner - it simply states that they want to learn more. Block Builder Ambassadors will meet with each block that submits a pre-application to explain the fine details of the program. It is after that meeting that homeowners will decide if they want to submit a final application to be considered for a Block Challenge Award. Eagan did stress, however, that without the Pre-Application being submitted a block cannot submit a Final Application, so don’t let March 16th slip by. Learn more about FBB on the website: https://www.fultonblockbuilders.com/apply/ or follow them on Facebook.

Since 1932, Sweet-Woods Memorial Co. has provided thousands of families all over Central New York with premium quality memorials, bronze plaques, and mausoleums.  With locations in Phoenix, Brewerton and Camillus, the business was founded with one philosophy in mind: to provide the best quality material and craftsmanship available, at a reasonable price.

IMPORTANT DATES REGARDING 2018 Fulton Block Builders:

• Friday, March 16, 2018 – Neighborhood Recruitment Forms (pre-applications) are due
• Wednesday, April 18, 2018 – Final applications are due
• Monday April 30, 2018 – Fundraising match for the Shineman grant must be raised
• Tuesday May 1, 2018 – FBB grant awardees announced & home improvements begin
• Wednesday October 31, 2018 – awardees must complete their work

Dennis Goss from Sweet-Woods Memorial Company in Phoenix, NY presents Linda Eagan with a check in support of the Fulton Block Builders

Community Bank N.A Brings Fulton Block Builders to 92% of the Matching Goal Needed to Realize the Full $100,000.00 Grant from the Shineman Foundation

Community Bank N.A recently donated $5,000.00 to the Fulton Block Builders (FBB). Branch Manager, Tina Stephens is seen here with Linda Eagan, FBB administrative Director. “The Fulton Block Builders have announced Target Areas and are accepting Pre-Applications for the 2017 Block Challenge matching grant program. Homeowners are encouraged to go to fultonblockbuilders.com to download the pre-application form and sample letter to organize your neighbors. It is a very simple process and any block in the city can apply, however preference will be given to blocks in the Target Areas. FBB is thrilled to have the support of Community Bank N.A. With this 5K check, FBB has now raised 92% of the match needed to realize the full $100,000.00 matching grant from the Shineman Foundation.” Eagan said

Branch Manager, Tina Stephens (left) with Linda Eagan, FBB administrative Director

Each participating property owner in a Challenge Block is eligible to receive a dollar-for-dollar match on exterior improvements (visible from the street), up to $1,000. If $500 is spent, a $250 match will be made. If $2,000 or more is spent the match will be $1,000. (minus taxes). Funding is competitive please see Tips for a Competitive Application.

To receive the matching funds, participants must submit all receipts and invoices at the conclusion of their project. Fulton Block Builders will review the materials, take a picture of the completed work, and send a reimbursement check to the participant. (Note sales tax on purchases cannot be matched only the before tax purchase price.)

In addition to matching funds, participants will be eligible to receive special discounts from sponsoring hardware stores and garden centers. (A list of sponsors and the applicable discounts will be available when the Challenge Blocks are designated).

What improvements are eligible?

• Painting                                  
• Mailboxes                                          
• Porch repair                          
• Exterior lights
• Soffit repair                            
• Front yard landscaping       
• Sidewalk repair                    
• Front doors/screen doors
• Flower boxes                         
• Shutters
• And more...

“Community Bank N.A. slogan is Bank Happy which is more than just advertising it is the core principle by which we operate” said Stephens. We are a full service financial institution, offering all the things much bigger banks offer. But we also have one thing they don’t -a passion for providing the highest level of customer service in whatever we do. “The support for the FBB is clear demonstration of this passion” Stephens said.

Support continues to grow for the Fulton Block Builders

Nancy Kush Ellis, Vice President of Fulton Savings Bank is shown here after presenting Linda Eagan with a check for $10,000.00 for the Fulton Block Builder (FBB) project. “Fulton Savings Bank is proud to be a Corporate Sponsor of this new initiative and thanks all those involved for their continued enthusiasm and hard work.!” Ellis said.

Bringing homeowners together in one block builds community and generates confidence. “Residents of the city are encouraged to start organizing their blocks as pre applications will be accepted from March 1st through April 1st. Home owners are asked to go the FBB website for help with this organization. On the website residents will find: sample letters, tips, frequently asked questions and application forms.” Eagan said.

Fulton Block Builders is a program that generates neighborhood pride and helps homeowners and property owners recover part of the cost of their exterior property investment. The core feature of this approach is to build on strengths rather than just fix weaknesses.

In 1871, a group of civic leaders organized Fulton Savings Bank “to receive deposits from tradesmen, clerks, mechanics, laborers, minors, servants and others.”  The first Bank location was in a rented room at the northeast corner of Second and Oneida Streets.  The Bank has been serving the greater Fulton community ever since and continues to Build Trust for Generations. This donation to FBB is another commitment to that philosophy.