CNY RISE Center, Zen Center of Syracuse, and Unity Church of Syracuse organized the First Annual Valley Ties Neighborhood Picnic to promote harmony and peace among different communities. Hundreds of neighbors came together to meet on another and enjoy the delicious diverse meals prepared by the volunteers. Several local businesses supported the event and some organizations opened information tables. Children had a lot of fun with the jump houses, face painting, tie dye t-shirts and water balloons games while everyone was enjoying the gyro kababs.