Candyman Gets Award

Few places exemplify the spirit of "building up the South Side" better than the South Side Innovation Center in Syracuse, NY. On a recent morning, with the sounds of hammer and saw sometimes drowning out the conversation, Jill Hurst-Wahl sat down in the conference room to talk about the Harriette McDowell Entrepreneur of the Month Award, and it's latest recipient.

Robert Hollis - known to customers and business associates as The Candyman - received the certificate from the South Side Entrepreneur's Association.

"Robert is always concerned with improving the business atmosphere on the South Side," says Hurst-Wahl. "He knows what it takes for an entrepreneur to succeed. He's an avid networker, always meeting people and introducing them to one another. While those are good entrepreneurial aspects, one of the key factors in choosing Robert to receive the award was the fact that he makes the time to teach and encourage other small business owners."

Harriette McDowell was a member of the initial board of advisors for the SSEA, and was instrumental in setting the organization on it's current path. After her passing earlier this year, it was decided to rename the award in her honor. Hollis is one of the first recipients.

"She would be very happy to see all this happening," says Hollis, looking at the construction crew that's making the racket. "This is the sound of progress." The building at 2610 South Salina was sold to Syracuse University by Dunk & Bright Furniture, and through SU's Falcone Center is being renovated into the SSIC. Part of the mandate for the Center is to provide incubation space for new South Side businesses. The SSEA holds its monthly meetings there, starting their members' day with a 7:30 program full of news, information and inspiration.

After 20 years as a firefighter for the city of Syracuse, Hollis was looking for a business that would allow him to invest financial, physical and spiritual capital in his community. RLHollis Associates operates a candy vending business, with machines in over 50 local businesses. Part of the proceeds are directed back into the community through charitable contributions. In addition to volunteering at the Rescue Mission, Hollis is a member of the Inner City Rotary Club and the Greater Syracuse Chamber.

"Wherever he goes," says Hurst-Wahl, "you hear people yell out 'Hey, Candyman!' Robert inspires that kind of reaction because he's always got a wonderful, genuine smile for people. He's a delightful person, and everyone I know is always happy to see him."

"The award means a great deal to me, because I knew Harriette," says Hollis. "It's nice to be recognized, but I love helping other entrepreneurs. I look forward to presenting a few of these myself."