Good morning, Syracuse.

Syracuse illustrator Melquea Smith shifted her work to create diverse children’s books that feature Black and brown characters—she also runs Brown Sugar Graphics to provide inclusive clip art.

Kevin Cronin said REO Speedwagon split after over 50 years due to differences among band members, with their final show on Jan.

1 + he now plans to tour solo and work on his memoir following a podcast interview.

Former school board Commissioner Twiggy Billue announced Saturday she will appeal her removal after an investigation found she broke rules while helping her bullied grandson.

Her appeal will go to Education Commissioner Betty Rosa, a decision that could change the timeline for appointing a temporary board member.

NYSDOT is set to plow roads today ahead of a significant snowstorm — over 100 plow trucks are assigned to pretreat and salt major routes like I-81, I-481 and I-690 across Syracuse and nearby counties while crews in the Tug Hill area push snow banks for safer travel.

Local nurse and educator Dr. Johaun Jackson died Jan.

4 at age 50 and made a lasting impact on health education at Upstate Medical Center and local colleges; he was also known for mentoring future nurses and cooking for 45 relatives at Christmas (a cherished local tradition).

The Ostrom Avenue Podcast episode 257 detailed Syracuse men's basketball losses to Boston College and Virginia Tech and previewed the upcoming ACC game against Miami while noting the women's team win streak and sharing injury news for Gary Gait's lacrosse group.

The NY Sportsman’s Expo is open today at the Expo Center at the NYS Fairgrounds — local vendors are showcasing custom tackle, duck calls, and ultra-light watercraft — and runs from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

The Syracuse Orange lost by a final score of 85 to 76 to the Miami Hurricanes in a game at the JMA Wireless Dome on Saturday.

Their third straight setback comes as they prepare to face NC State on Tuesday.

Cheat Codes Concert

9 PM - 12 AM — Westcott Theatre — Tickets start at $102 — Experience an unforgettable night with Cheat Codes live in Syracuse.

Springfield Thunderbirds vs. Syracuse Crunch

7-9 p.m. — Upstate Medical Arena at The Oncenter War Memorial — Ticket prices vary — Experience a thrilling night of hockey with the Springfield Thunderbirds battling the Syracuse Crunch.

Belleville Senators vs. Syracuse Crunch

7-9 p.m. — Upstate Medical Arena at The Oncenter War Memorial — Ticket prices vary — Catch an exciting AHL matchup as the Belleville Senators take on the Syracuse Crunch.

Jazz Jam

3–5 p.m. — Funk 'n Waffles — Free entry — Enjoy a vibrant evening of live jazz music in a cozy atmosphere.

Anthony Martinelli Live Show

8-11 p.m. — Funk 'n Waffles — Free entry — Experience the unique pop-rock sounds of multi-instrumentalist Anthony Martinelli.

Candlelight Concert: Vivaldi's Four Seasons

6-7 p.m. — Palladian Hall at the Treasury — Tickets required — Immerse yourself in a candlelit experience featuring Vivaldi's timeless masterpiece performed by a string quartet.

Lake Effect Half Marathon

8:30-11:30 a.m. — Lewis Park — Registration fees apply — Participate in the 15th annual Lake Effect Half Marathon and associated racing events.

Pearly Baker's Best Concert

7:30-10:30 p.m. — Five Guys — Tickets starting at $13.07 — Experience a Grateful Dead tribute with a diverse song catalog and a captivating performance.

2026 Central New York Boat Show

Feb 19-22 — CNY Boat Show — Admission details not specified — Explore the latest in boat and yacht accessories, alongside interactive exhibits and expert insights.

North Carolina Tar Heels at Syracuse Orange Basketball

1-3 p.m. — JMA Wireless Dome — Tickets available — Catch the thrilling college basketball rivalry between the Tar Heels and Orange.