Good morning, Syracuse.

County Libraries are winding down their summer reading programs as Maggie and Tom reviewed the best parts of 'Color Our World' (the summer program) while previewing upcoming Imagination Library birthday story times and OCPL plans for September.

Mary Nelson’s annual back-to-school giveaway in Syracuse drew more than 10,000 local residents who received school supplies ahead of the school year — a turnout that far exceeded last year’s registration of 5,000 children.

Syracuse resident Charlotte Wilcox celebrated her 100th birthday today at Jake Hafner’s Restaurant and Tavern where nearly 60 family members and friends gathered to enjoy her favorite dishes including sirloin tips over noodles and chicken and biscuits.

She thanked everyone with gratitude and humor—her milestone brought many cherished memories to life.

Sheriff's deputies arrived in Bayberry on Friday night after a swatting call reported a shooting on Deerfield Road where the caller claimed he had shot his parents and would target first responders—authorities later confirmed the call was fake.

A 35 year old man was shot in the leg Friday night in Syracuse — police responded to a ShotSpotter alert at about 10:22 p.m. on West Newell Street where multiple rounds were fired and a blood trail led them to him — and he was taken to University Hospital, where he is in stable condition and expected to recover.

A literacy program run by the Literacy Coalition is partnering with local libraries to host free storytimes for children as part of the Dolly Parton Imagination Library—designed to boost reading skills in kids ages zero to five.

Rich Gasiorowski said the initiative, which gives out 16,000 books a month, is about halfway through its rollout across 20 libraries.

Yesterday, Carol Watson explained how ferns can thrive in the greenhouse under the high heat—she offered clear tips on caring for the plants to keep them healthy.

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.

Scare-A-Con Horror and Pop Culture Convention

4:00 – 5:30 p.m. — Marriott Syracuse Downtown — Check website for details — Experience the Northeast's premier horror and pop culture fan convention and film festival.

Syracuse Show 2025

Sept 7-8 — Embassy Suites by Hilton Syracuse — Trade show access — Explore the largest regional event showcasing footwear and apparel.

REV PEYTON'S BIG DAMN BAND Concert

7-10 p.m. — Funk 'n Waffles — Tickets $30-$152 — Experience a lively performance by The Reverend Peyton's Big Damn Band and The Hooten Hallers in Syracuse.

New Hope's 2025 Annual Fall Fundraiser

10:00 PM – 12:30 AM — 420 S Main St, North Syracuse, NY — Support local initiatives — Enjoy a night of fun, food, and community spirit at a meaningful charity event.

Syracuse Water Lantern Festival

10:30 PM - 2:30 AM — 123 N Main St, Syracuse, NY — Tickets on sale now — Celebrate love and dreams with floating lanterns illuminating the water.