Good morning, Syracuse.

Anna Anel of The Curd Nerd (in Eastwood) finished second at the Cheesemonger Invitational last Sunday, earning the Best Plate award for her wine-soaked cheddar presentation and helping cement Syracuse’s reputation as a destination for artisan cheese.

In 1976, a three‑hour bicentennial parade filled downtown with nearly 50,000 residents along Salina Street, uniting diverse community groups.

Today, with Fourth of July plans lacking a central celebration, locals remember a time when shared events sparked citywide patriotism.

Cornell scientists reported historic lows in Oneida Lake's smallmouth bass numbers after surveys showed nearly zero young fish, and DEC reviewed angler efforts before the bass season opened on June 15.

The Oneida Lake Association board will meet on July 13 to propose potential actions.

A water main break closed the busy intersection of South Warren and East Onondaga Street early Friday as city crews began repairs, and households and businesses in the area may face water service interruptions until repairs are complete.

The New York State Department of Transportation announced Friday that the Interstate 81 Viaduct Project has begun its Community Grid phase — dismantling outdated infrastructure and rebuilding a key stretch of I-690 to improve local access — under a $2.1 billion contract with CNY Alliance.

Vince’s Gourmet Imports in North Syracuse serves The Marche, a turkey sub made with Cajun turkey, smoked Gouda, green apples, and cranberry-chipotle aioli & prepared either cold or toasted.

The busy deli continues to delight shoppers during its peak hours.

On Thursday night, the Mets lost 7-5 to the Red Sox at NBT Bank Stadium after an early lead gave way to a late rally capped by Hayden Senger’s three-run homer.

The series continued on Friday at 6:35 p.m. with Xzavion Curry starting against Jack Anderson.

SU women's basketball coach Felisha Legette-Jack announced the transfer of 5-foot-10 guard Elif Çayir from Turkey to join the roster for the 2026-27 season + she played 33 games for Nesibe Aydin in the Halkbank Women’s Basketball Super League.

Six Section III lacrosse players earned All-America and All-Academic honors from USA Lacrosse (two received both), while Cazenovia senior Tara Pratt won the Jackie Pitts Award and West Genesee coach Jess Lavelle was named Upstate N.Y.

U.S. Lacrosse Coach of the Year after an 18-2 season.

Elijah Kimble, a four-star running back rated as New York’s top offensive player, committed to Syracuse at a ceremony on Friday, July 3 at Canisius High School in Buffalo.

His choice marks the first blue-chip commitment in the cycle and boosts Syracuse football's prospects.

Tom Coulter, a well-known Syracuse boxing coach, died last Sunday at 95 after a long illness; he led Friends of Boxing and ran the Remedy tavern on Seneca Turnpike in Syracuse (known as 'the king').

Vince Gill: 50 Years From Home

7:30-9 p.m. — Crouse Hinds Concert Theater — Ticket prices vary — Celebrate Vince Gill's musical journey in an unforgettable concert experience.

Syracuse Jazz Fest at Beak & Skiff Orchards

2:30 p.m. — Beak & Skiff Apple Hill Campus — Free entry — Celebrate 40 years of jazz in a scenic orchard setting with world-class performances.

59th Annual Syracuse Gem, Mineral, Fossil & Jewelry Show

10 a.m. – 1 p.m. — Center of Progress Building — Admission details to be confirmed — Explore a dazzling array of gems, minerals, fossils, and jewelry.

NAPA Syracuse Nationals 2026

8 a.m. — New York State Fairgrounds — Free entry — A celebration of automotive culture with car enthusiasts gathering for an exciting showcase.

Syracuse Nationals Classic Car Show

8 AM – 6 PM — New York State Fairgrounds — Admission details to be confirmed — Enjoy a day filled with classic cars and community spirit.

Embassy Suites Destiny USA Clambake

4-8 p.m. — Embassy Suites by Hilton Syracuse Destiny USA — $65 at the door — Enjoy delicious clams and good vibes at this fun-filled community event.

Paws & Poses: Yoga for a Cause

12:00 – 1:30 PM — Sky Yoga Studios — Suggested Donation: $25 — Enjoy a relaxing yoga session while supporting homeless animals.

Hardwired: A Metallica Tribute

7-11 p.m. — Westcott Theater — Cost info not specified — Experience an electrifying tribute to Metallica from Hardwired.

Rhythm & Brews

6:00-8:30 p.m. — Salt City Market Community Room — Free entry — Enjoy a relaxing evening of smooth R&B, neo-soul, and spoken word performances.

Tim McGraw Concert

6:45-8:30 p.m. — Empower FCU Amphitheater at Lakeview — Tickets TBA — Tim McGraw graces Syracuse with his Pawn Shop Guitar Tour alongside 49 Winchester.