As a Syracuse native, I’ve had to explain far too many things to people who just don’t get it. It’s time to settle these issues once and for all.

1. What is Carousel Mall?

Only the best mall to go to as a kid. And, if you live in Syracuse and you don’t know the answer to this question, you clearly haven’t been here long enough.

2. On top of that, what is Great Northern Mall?

Don’t even worry about it, let's just go to Destiny.

3. What are salt potatoes?

Just one of the most delicious and simple foods you could possibly eat. We’re called the Salt City for a reason.

4. Why do you care about basketball so much?

It’s just a Syracuse thing. We can’t help but bleed orange for our SU team.

5. Oh, so that’s why everything’s orange?

As ugly as it may be, it’s our color and we wear it with pride.

6. So what’s the best part of any basketball game?

The last 4 seconds, obviously. Just ask Tyler Ennis. I’m pretty sure Pittsburgh is still a little heartbroken from that one.

7. It’s so cold out, how are you not freezing?

Live in Syracuse for as many winters as I have and you’ll develop a tolerance for the cold.

8. Are you from Upstate New York?

No. Syracuse is Central New York and it always will be. Upstate doesn’t cover every part of the state that’s not New York City.

9. Have you tried Dinosaur BBQ?

Yes, and it’s a Syracuse thing so I probably tried it first.

10. What’s so special about Wegmans?

Everything. Everything about Wegmans is special.

11. What’s a half moon?

A cookie that’s definitely better than your version, considering half moons made anywhere else are made with devil’s food cake.

12. What’s the State Fair?

The place you go to eat fried dough, look at a butter sculpture and get milk for 25 cents.

13. Where can I find the best hot dog in Syracuse?

Stop talking right now and go straight to Heid’s.

14. Why is the Tipp Hill traffic light upside down?

Just know that if you’re not a Syracuse native, you’ll get honked at if you hesitate at this light. We all know the story, and if you spend long enough in Syracuse, you’ll figure it out.

15. Isn’t Sound Garden just a band?

No, it’s the best place to find music in Syracuse.

16. What’s Funk ‘N Waffles?

A downtown treasure where you can find any kind of waffle you can imagine, as well as awesome live music.