Good morning, Syracuse.

Syracuse residents will gather at 8:30 a.m. on Saturday in Elmwood—where South Avenue meets Valley Drive—to hold an annual peace cleanup honoring Jim Gifford, who was killed 11 years ago.

The event, starting in 2014, supports remembering all those lost to violence in the community.

The $32 million INSPYRE Innovation Hub opened in downtown Syracuse on Sept.

18th — it is now the largest business incubator in New York State. The renovated 90,000-square-foot facility, previously known as The Tech Garden, features a two-story addition and updated systems — it offers coworking areas, private offices, and prototype development spaces for local entrepreneurs.

Syracuse TV station owners pressured ABC to suspend Jimmy Kimmel Live after his remarks linked the suspect in Charlie Kirk’s killing to MAGA supporters—Sinclair and Nexstar said they will replace the show and may ask the FCC to review media rules.

SUNY ESF President Joanie Mahoney announced a stability plan that cuts nearly 20% of staff and trims $3 million in salary expenses for the 2026-27 academic year — union leaders warned the voluntary buyout of experienced workers could lower enrollment.

Faculty and staff received the update last month as the college works to address its budget losses.

Blackstone LaunchPad hosted Ideas Fest at Bird Library on Sept.

12 where over 60 student entrepreneurs pitched to judges and won $4,500 along with a 30-minute mentoring session—helping launch ventures from club management tools to fitness apps and health devices.

Chancellor Syverud updated the University Senate today by sharing key data on finances including a $2.9 million surplus closing FY25 and plans for a balanced budget in FY26, record undergraduate applications, and leadership changes like extending Provost Lois Agnew's term while he recused himself from the chancellor search — reflecting ongoing efforts to support shared governance.

New York State Police announced on September 18th the Autism Awareness — Visor Card Program to help law enforcement interact with people with autism, using icons to indicate driver’s license, registration, and insurance along with a color code system for alert levels during stops.

The card is designed to reduce misunderstandings in public interactions with troopers.

The New York State Court of Appeals ruled on Thursday—declining to hear an appeal on the use of eminent domain at Shoppingtown Mall in DeWitt, which has been vacant since 2020—allowing redevelopment plans to move forward.

Onondaga County Executive Ryan McMahon said the decision was a win for the public as plans for the District East project, which will add 912 residential units, advance.

Today, the Onondaga County Health Department is hosting a free rabies clinic in Onondaga County where pet owners can have dogs, cats — and ferrets vaccinated as long as each is leashed or in a secure carrier.

Owners must bring previous vaccination records to secure a 3-year certificate — and additional clinics will be held on October 16 and November 8.

Mat Williamson leads the Super DIRTcar Series with an 82-point advantage—he has 27 wins this season and is set to claim his third championship and a $60,000 prize when the series ends at Albany-Saratoga Speedway this weekend.

Other events include the Whelen Modified Tour at New Hampshire Speedway, the Cal Lane Memorial Fall Nationals at Outlaw Speedway on Friday at 7 p.m., and the Shangri-La 2 season finale at Tioga Center on Saturday at 1 p.m.

Syracuse Color Craze Run

1-6 p.m. — 123 N Main St, Syracuse, NY — Tickets on sale now — Enjoy a colorful non-competitive run followed by a mini music festival.

Syracuse Vegfest

11 AM – 5 PM — Fatcat Baking — Free entry — Sample delicious plant-based goodies and connect with fellow veg enthusiasts.

1st Annual Music for Meals Fundraiser

5-8 p.m. — Harvey's Garden — Community support event — Experience a night of music and mission for Meals on Wheels of Syracuse.

Crooked Coast Concert

8:00 – 11:00 p.m. — Funk 'n Waffles — Ticket details coming soon — Experience a live performance from Crooked Coast in Syracuse.

Avatar: The Last Airbender In Concert

7:30-9 p.m. — Crouse Hinds Concert Theater — Ticket prices vary — Experience the beloved animated series soundtrack performed live as Aang's epic journey unfolds on screen.

Dram Fools Live Performance

7-8:30 p.m. — Middle Ages Brewing Company — $20 — Experience the eclectic sounds of a two-man band blending R&B, jazz, and more.

Annie In The Water Concert

7-10 p.m. — Funk 'n Waffles — Ticket details at GoTickets — Experience an electrifying night with Annie in The Water's iconic rock performance.

Country Folk Art Show

5-9 p.m. — New York State Fairgrounds — $8 at the door — Experience a vibrant market showcasing unique handmade items and artisan crafts.

Community Side by Side Concert with the Syracuse Orchestra

7:30-8:30 p.m. — The Carrier Civic Center Theaters — Ticket prices vary — Experience a unique collaboration between local musicians and the Syracuse Orchestra highlighting famous movie themes and classical favorites.

New York Power Authority Contracting & Procurement Outreach Exchange

5:30-7:30 p.m. — 350 W Fayette St, Syracuse, NY — Free entry — Explore business opportunities and network with NYPA and Canal Corporation teams during this outreach exchange.