Good morning, Syracuse.

On January 29 refugees who legally came to Syracuse lost food stamp benefits as more than 2,000 Central New York refugees faced hunger—families like the Almenala from Syria reported hardship amid the cuts.

Dazed opened its cannabis dispensary on Marshall Street near Syracuse University in April and has been operating with a soft opening while planning a grand opening around the end of August—when many students are expected to return.

The store offers its own line of vapes, edibles and merchandise—set in the space that once housed Hungry Chuck’s.

Larry Swiader, a Syracuse native and alumnus of the Instructional Design program, built his career from analog editing to leading digital education projects at the American Battlefield Trust.

He now uses AI and AR to bring history to life—his new Liberty Trail app will offer walking tours at New York battlefields and support the upcoming semiquincentennial commemorations.

New York public schools are now required to have a plan to help students during heart emergencies at school or after school — the law was signed at Buffalo Bills training camp with Bills defensive back Damar Hamlin present.

The state will host a webinar to help farmers apply for an overtime tax credit offered through the Farm Employer Overtime Advance Program—this effort aims to ease rising labor costs for agricultural businesses.

On July 24, Onondaga County Executive Ryan McMahon marked the 200th anniversary of the Erie Canal's completion with a proclamation that honored its engineering feat—its 363-mile stretch helped shape local tourism and history.

The county noted that the canal remains a national heritage corridor and a vital part of Central New York's culture.

Sections of I-81 from Exit 16A to Exit 17 will close overnight from 7 p.m. to 6 a.m. Monday to Saturday and Aug.

4 to 9 while crews demolish the East Glen Avenue bridge for the I-81 Viaduct Project—drivers should follow the posted detours.

The New York State Department of Transportation said the ramp from I-690 Eastbound from West Street will be closed for lighting repairs from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. on July 28 through 31—drivers must follow the posted detour via Herald Place, North Salina Street, Erie Boulevard East and North McBride Street—and construction may change with weather conditions.

Goalie Camp - Syracuse, NY

12-4:15 p.m. — Twin Rinks @ The MACC — Cost info not provided — Enhance your goaltending skills with expert coaching and on-ice training over three days.

Erie Canal Songfest

6:30-8 p.m. — Erie Canal Museum — Free entry — Celebrate the Erie Canal's legacy with a folk concert featuring new historical compositions and beloved tunes.

Syracuse Speed Dating for Singles in Their 50s and 60s

6:30-8:30 p.m. — Vicinos Brick and Brew — Ticket required — Engage in lively 6-minute conversations with local singles to spark romance.

Leftover Salmon Concert

4-7:30 p.m. — Westcott Theater — Tickets starting at $140 — Leftover Salmon brings an unforgettable musical experience to Syracuse.

Creed Fisher Meet and Greet

7:00-9:30 p.m. — Westcott Theater — Must purchase GA ticket — Hang out with Creed for an exclusive Meet and Greet experience.

Sauce Boss Live Performance

7-9 p.m. — The 443 Social Club & Lounge — $25 – $35 — Experience a vibrant mix of blues music and delicious gumbo from Bill Wharton, the Sauce Boss.

Wellness Unplugged Overview

12-4 p.m. — Emerald Cocktail Kitchen — Free entry — Indulge in wellness pop-up classes, local vendor deals, and health-focused delights in a vibrant atmosphere.

FREE SHOW - Dan Wagner

6-8 p.m. — Funk 'n Waffles — Free entry — Experience the energetic sounds of Dan Wagner's alternative rock live at Funk 'n Waffles.

Coldfront Live Performance

8:00-9:30 p.m. — Middle Ages Brewing Company — $10 cover — Experience the dynamic rock sounds of ColdFront as they cover classic and contemporary hits.

Asian Elephant Extravaganza

10 AM – 3 PM — Rosamond Gifford Zoo — Free for members with paid admission — Celebrate the cultural traditions of South Asia with music, dance, and engaging elephant encounters.