Downtown Committee of Syracuse Spring Spotlight Series Inspires with “Growing Downtown Syracuse”

Syracuse, NY – The 2026 Spring Spotlight Series, held on Wednesday, March 18th, presented by Canandaigua National Bank in partnership with the Downtown Committee of Syracuse, was a resounding success. A full house of community members left the event feeling inspired about Downtown Syracuse. Speakers offered insights into the vibrant arts and culture scene, new and ongoing initiatives shaping the community, and new business contributing to “Growing Downtown Syracuse.” Mayor Sharon Owens began the presentation by welcoming everyone and reinforcing that the success of a city begins with a vibrant and welcoming Downtown area.

First, Franklin Fry, Executive Director of the Redhouse Arts Center, offered attendees an exclusive behind the scenes look at Redhouse Arts Center and delivered a powerful message on the impact of arts and culture and the local economy.

Next, Michael Greene, Managing Parter of The Mizpah discussed the exciting plans underway to transform the long vacant space, Mizpah Tower, in Downtown Syracuse into a community hub offering a unique experience featuring a wine bar, gathering space, and event venue.

Lastly, Duyen Nguyen, owner of Cake Bar and Tea House shared her inspiring journey of immigrating to the United States from Vietnam and sharing her culture with Downtown Syracuse through her business. Her success story, which began at Salt City Market, has expanded to an impressive four locations within just five years.

This year’s event marks the rebranding of the former Progress Breakfast Series, bringing a renewed sense of growth and excitement for the area. The Downtown Spotlight Series Breakfast will be held two times a year and aims to leave participants feeling energized and more connected to Downtown Syracuse, by focusing on a topic celebrating our city center.

“As an organization whose mission is Downtown’s revitalization and continued vibrancy, yesterday’s presentation truly showed how this community is rich with individuals who are contributing to the growth that is happening in our city center,” said Merike Treier, Executive Director of the Downtown Committee of Syracuse.

The Downtown Committee is proud to partner with Canandaigua National Bank in presenting the Spotlight Breakfast Series. With Canandaigua National Bank’s recent opening of their Downtown Syracuse branch, they are excited to be part of the Downtown community.

“Events like the Spring Spotlight Breakfast highlight the strength of collaboration driving growth across Syracuse. We’re proud to partner with the Downtown Committee of Syracuse and to be part of that momentum as we continue to expand in the market,” said Frank H. Hamlin, III, President and CEO of Canandaigua National Bank.

Thank you to our presenting sponsor, Canandaigua National Bank, and Corporate Sponsors, AmeriCU, Barclay Damon, FustCharles and Tompkins. For more information about the
Spotlight Breakfast Series, please visit DowntownSyracuse.com.

The Downtown Committee of Syracuse, Inc. is a private, not-for-profit, professional downtown management organization representing all property owners and tenants within the central business district.  The Downtown Committee undertakes programs to improve downtown's image, strengthen its economic base, increase its attractiveness, and ensure that it's clean, safe and accessible. For more information, visit www.downtownsyracuse.com