Good morning, Syracuse.

Syracuse police and fire departments played a charity basketball game today to support United Way.

The fire department made a comeback to win 92 to 88 — both department chiefs said they hope to host the game again next year.

This weekend, Central New York hosts many events including the 18th Annual North Syracuse Family Festival at Centerville Place—featuring a 10 a.m. parade, 11 a.m. opening ceremonies, and a surprise unveiling—and a Spring Rummage Sale at Palermo Church from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at 11 County Route 35. The musical Fun Home shows at Redhouse Arts Center with an 8 p.m. performance today while the Syracuse Mets host a Duel of the Dishes game at 6:35 p.m. as part of Super Saturday.

About 220 workers will lose their jobs when TCGplayer’s downtown office closes in late August as eBay moves operations to Kentucky — State Senator Chris Ryan said the move is retaliation against employees who demanded fair wages and safe conditions.

Kevin Whitman, 27, from Irondequoit was arrested on Thursday for allegedly posing as a doctor and using Strong Memorial Hospital’s DEA number to issue 177 prescriptions—mostly for oxycodone—after a home search uncovered a fake diploma from the University of Rochester Medical School.

A new feature lists 32 iconic foods from Upstate New York that show our local pride, with favorites such as Garbage Plates and Jell-O+the guide also tells readers where to try these treats at local restaurants and stores.

It explains how these foods have become part of our everyday culture.

Construction on I-81 is speeding up from Syracuse’s outskirts to downtown today as contractors work to meet rapidly changing deadlines.

State DOT officials urge drivers to slow down during lane shutdowns and check the I-81 Connect App + say the project will finish by 2028.

Starting May 27 through June 6, the New York State Department of Transportation will reduce I-81 Southbound to one lane (from the I-690 on-ramp to Exit 18 in Syracuse) from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. for bridgework that is weather-dependent.

Today, the Section III boys lacrosse playoffs begin as top teams in each class, including the unbeaten Wildcats, Christian Brothers Academy, Jamesville-DeWitt, and Skaneateles, set to compete with dark horses and challengers.

Key players like Charlie Lockwood, Jack Wichmann, and Ben Bianco are among those to watch as local teams drive excitement in the tournament — offering fans a preview of promising matchups.

Former Navy SEAL Rorke Denver, a Syracuse defenseman, delivered a motivational speech urging the lacrosse players to 'win the next gunfight' & his words now guide the team in their locker room.

Coach Gary Gait said the Orange will use Denver’s advice as they face Maryland in today's Final Four matchup, although Denver will miss the game due to previous travel plans & will follow them from afar.

Open House Event

11 AM - 1 PM — 477 Audubon Pkwy, Syracuse, NY — Free entry — Explore a variety of properties at this engaging real estate open house.

Dave Matthews Band Concert

7:30-9 p.m. — Empower FCU Amphitheater at Lakeview — Tickets available — Experience the iconic sounds of Dave Matthews Band with fan-favorite hits and new material.

Avril Lavigne: The Greatest Hits Tour

7-8:30 p.m. — Empower FCU Amphitheater at Lakeview — Tickets available — Experience live all the greatest hits from Avril Lavigne's extensive catalog.

NYSAFC 119th Annual Conference & FIRE 2025 Expo

8 a.m. – 1 p.m. — The Oncenter — Fees vary — A premier expo for first responders to explore the latest in fire, rescue, and EMS technology and training.

Luke Bryan Concert

7-9 p.m. — Empower FCU Amphitheater at Lakeview — Tickets available — Experience country superstar Luke Bryan with special guests in a highly anticipated summer show.

Birdhouses for Fair Housing Auction

5:30-8:30 p.m. — SKY Armory — $40 per person — Bid on unique birdhouses while supporting fair housing efforts in Central New York.

2025 NBHA Syracuse Super Show

Jun 13-15 — New York State Fairgrounds — $10,200 Added Money — Compete in thrilling barrel racing events with awards and prizes for top riders.

The Mere Mortals Performance

8-9:30 p.m. — Middle Ages Brewing Company — 18+ only — Enjoy a lively cover band featuring local supergroup talent, guaranteed to get you dancing.

Fifi's Ice Cream Gathering

6:30-8:30 p.m. — Fifi's Ice Cream & Sweets — Free to attend — Enjoy ice cream delights while sharing your literary passions in a cozy setting.

Syracuse Speed Dating for Ages 37-57

7:30-9:30 p.m. — Vicinos Brick and Brew — Ticket required — Meet potential matches in a fun and efficient speed dating format.