Exploring Syracuse's roots

Throughout a week in July and August, student journalists in a news writing and reporting class from the S.I. Newhouse School of Public Communications branched out across the city of Syracuse and its surrounding areas in search of subjects whose roots are connected to the Central New York area.

The 57 video stories captured a range of characters, from those that are a part of multigenerational businesses to individuals just starting to establish a base in the area.

The project, called "Start Here," features a specially designed website that showcases an interactive map and allows you to search videos by specific regions of Syracuse.

Some featured videos include:

Low-income youth can Imagine Syracuse arts

Jessie Keating, a youth minister at Saint Lucy’s Church in the Near West Side, founded Imagine Syracuse to provide underprivileged children with access to the arts.

Vicky's Tasty Treats is a family favorite

Lisa King and her husband have been running the dessert stand Vicky’s Tasty Treats in Liverpool since 2001, and the business has been in her family since 1972.

Karl's Klocks: Ticking strong after 24 years

Karl Kascha, owner of Karl’s Klocks, has always been interested in mechanics. When he was a child, he used to drive his parents crazy by taking apart every appliance in the house.

Cheesecakes with a smile at Big Mama's

While new customers may walk in to Big Mama’s Cheesecakes expecting just to choose and purchase a cheesy delight, what they will really get on the side of their cake is a warm fuzzy feeling. It’s cheesecake with a smile at Big Mama’s.

More stories from the Start Here project >>