Here's your local news at a glance for Tuesday, the 19th of August.
Good morning, Syracuse.
💼 Business
Walt’s HobbyTown, a family-owned store that has served radio-controlled model enthusiasts for 50 years, is closing by the end of summer in Lakeland—owner Bruce Throne confirmed the decision.
Two Central New York gadgets made the final four in the Coolest Thing Made in New York contest – Syracuse’s Bluefor’s Cryocooler and Auburn’s EarthPlanter’s self-watering containers were named from 36 business nominees.
The contest is hosted by the Business Council of New York State.
🚨 Crime
A person died in a house fire last night at 5701 Caughdenoy Road in Cicero—police could not enter the burning home and roads nearby were closed for hours.
In early August, Syracuse saw a 27% drop in overall crime—violent crimes fell 18%, property crimes dropped 29%, murders decreased 33% and stolen vehicles were cut in half—as police walked beats and visited homes to reduce gun risks.
🎭 Culture
At the New York State Fair, 17 new food stands will debut — with Kono Pizza Cone introducing pizza in a cone and Limp Lizard Bar & Grill returning to serve smoked brisket and walking tacos.
The fair runs from tomorrow to Labor Day Monday and will also feature vendors selling cheese curds, steamed dumplings and cookie dough.
Onondaga County is planning to open a new aquarium in 2026 that will serve as a film set to attract filmmakers using local tax incentives.
Film industry leaders say the facility will feature green screens and LED walls—supporting live action and animation productions that could boost Syracuse’s appeal for global projects.
The New York State Fair is gearing up as rides prepare to start, food vendors stock their supplies, and farm exhibitors load up their displays—weather forecasts predict good conditions that should draw many visitors.
🎓 Education
Central High will reopen as a new STEAM school on Sept.
3 with 250 freshmen from 28 middle schools, and a 9‐foot statue of Minerva will return to its place—restoring a historic symbol after 50 years.
Upsilon Alpha Alumnae of Syracuse is donating its former chapter house at 300 Waverly Ave. to Syracuse University where it will serve as a meeting space for Greek organizations—preserving a historic building that was home to Chi Omega for over 70 years.
🏛️ Government
The New York Department of Transportation unveiled draft mural designs for retaining walls along Business Loop 81 for the new I-81 viaduct project — the proposals include tributes to local figures like Libba Cotten and astronaut Jeanette Jo Epps, and residents will soon vote on the designs.
🎉 Syracuse Events
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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.
🏠 Syracuse Real Estate
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💼 Syracuse Job Board
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📣 Syracuse Announcements
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