Good morning, Syracuse.

The Syracuse City School District is easing back-to-school costs by covering nearly all essential supplies including digital and over-the-ear headphones for about $20 each, with a total expense of $909,000 plus an additional $1 million for computers (this effort helps reduce family expenses). Dr. Mary Nelson is preparing her 23rd annual backpack giveaway to supply items not covered by the district (a move that underscores growing financial challenges for local families).

Two faculty volunteers from the Center for Teaching and Learning Excellence’s academic integrity program — Aileen Gallagher and Laura Lisnyczyj — received Academic Integrity Outstanding Service Awards for their work to support policies and student guidance at the University.

They helped update rules, run campaigns, and offer advice to faculty and students in Syracuse.

In 2024, the Lyncourt Union Free School District in Onondaga County had a full value tax rate of $26.12 per $1,000—making it the fourth highest in New York and the highest in Central New York.

State comptroller data shows that lower property values in the area drive this higher tax rate.

The New York State Department of Transportation says Interstate 690 westbound will be reduced to one lane (between Exit 11 and Exit 10 on West St and between Exit 14 and Exit 13 on Teall Ave) on weekdays from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. for bridge work; closures end August 13 on one segment and August 19 on the other, and work is weather-dependent.

Today, Syracuse Fire Department Chief Michael Monds is proposing a new ordinance that would require the Minor League Baseball team to pay a $300 fee per fireworks display to cover fire prevention costs — a measure aimed at ending years of taxpayer underwriting following a brush fire triggered by fireworks outside Met's NBT Bank Stadium on July 24. The proposal will be considered by the city council in the coming weeks.

The Syracuse Common Council announced today a new A.I. tool to improve the safety and parking management of Veo bikes & scooters in the city—officials expect the tool to ease parking issues and reduce risks for riders.

SUNY Upstate will tear down up to four hospital buildings as part of a $450 million project to build a new emergency department annex—approved in this year’s state budget.

The hospital is now seeking bids for the design and construction team to begin the multi-year expansion.

LaToya Jones of the LeadSafeCNY Coalition at the United Way said that reducing childhood lead poisoning in Syracuse will require careful steps—her work as a certified nursing assistant showed that the local health system lacks the ongoing care children need.

The new owners of the Syracuse Mets have asked residents to help rename the team—keeping its affiliation while building a distinct local identity—and will collect ideas until August 31 with a fan vote on September 2, unveiling the new name at the close of its 150th season in 2026.

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.

The Great New York State Fair 2025

5 AM – 7 PM — New York State Fairgrounds — Admission varies — Experience a specialized exhibition showcasing the best of agriculture in New York.

T.3 Live Performance

8-10 p.m. — Funk 'n Waffles — Tickets starting at $23.63 — Experience the harmonious blend of a capella and instrumental music with T.3.

Lynyrd Skynyrd Concert

8:00 PM — New York State Fairgrounds — Tickets starting at $81 — Experience the legendary Lynyrd Skynyrd with their energetic new tour featuring classic hits and surprises.

Irish Fest Kick Off Party

8-9:30 p.m. — Middle Ages Brewing Company — 18+ only — Celebrate the start of Irish Fest with the electrifying Celtic roots music of The Town Pants.

Syracuse Football vs. UConn

8:00 PM – 1:30 PM — JMA Wireless Dome — Tickets available — Cheer on Syracuse as they face off against UConn in this exciting football matchup.