Good morning, Syracuse.

A strong sound of mowers and hammers filled a South Side neighborhood on Friday during the 17th annual Home HeadQuarters Block Blitz, where 375 volunteers improved sixty properties by repainting homes, trimming weeds and rebuilding a community garden along South and Bellevue avenues — a project that has boosted local upkeep for 17 years.

Central New York is hosting many community events this weekend—locals can enjoy soapbox races at Burnet Park, fall festivals across several venues and a vegan food event at the State Fair Grounds.

Organizers plan free and low-cost activities on Saturday and Sunday to celebrate the season.

Dozens gathered in Fulton today to protest after an ICE raid at a Cato Nutrition Bar left families in fear — immigrant organizations and community members demanded reform and immediate support for those affected.

Many rally attendees vowed to stand up for worker rights as basic necessities become hard to meet.

Masala Heaven, owned by Gary Singh, will open its first Indian restaurant in downtown Syracuse’s Salt City Market this fall—taking over the space once held by Firecracker Thai Kitchen in August.

The new vendor will offer a pared-down fast-casual menu of South Asian dishes to meet customer demand.

Micron's glowing logo now lights the side of One Lincoln Center in downtown Syracuse where the company will build a new office and welcome center.

Micron will break ground this November—using the space to help teams work together and bring more opportunities to the area.

Hamilton launched its 13-day run at the newly renovated Landmark Theatre that now shows details from its 1928 design—its run will end on September 21 as local restaurants and bars see more visitors.

Syracuse University paused admission to 20 majors in the College of Arts and Sciences as part of its portfolio review that did not include faculty input.

The pause will last one year while deans review enrollment trends and prepare plans for the programs — several faculty said they were very surprised by the decision.

SUNY ESF’s Environmental Studies Student Organization hosted a town hall on September 18 to discuss federal climate policy rollbacks, featuring Syracuse City Auditor Alex Marion, two assistant professors, and an environmental expert.

The panel urged the public to submit EPA comments until Sept 22 - stressing the need for local unity and action to address the crisis.

City officials announced a road reconstruction project will close Seeley Road this weekend from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday—drivers should expect delays and follow detours.

Syracuse University's Board of Trustees announced the 24-member committee to select the next chancellor on September 19th—led by co-chairs Shelly Fisher and Lisa Fontenelli—via a campus-wide email that also introduced a Chancellor Search website for community engagement sessions.

A ceremony was held at the Onondaga County War Memorial on September 19 to honor National POW/MIA Recognition Day.

Local American Legion Post 41 commander William Galvin said the event remembered soldiers still missing and that the POW/MIA flag—partly designed by World War II pilot Newt Heisley, a Syracuse University alumnus—symbolizes their sacrifice.

County Executive Ryan McMahon proposed a $6 million allocation to replace the 25-year-old sheriff's helicopter—calling it outdated like an old cell phone—and Sheriff Toby Shelley said a new state-of-the-art chopper is needed for better emergency response; once approved by lawmakers, delivery will take about two years.

More than 100,000 Central New York seniors will face higher Medicare Advantage costs in 2026, with a 76-year-old retiree’s plan set to jump 70%—adding an extra $21.80 per month.

Excellus BlueCross BlueShield released the rate increase details to customers.

Legal Services of Central New York announced that it secured an $800,000 settlement on behalf of former tenants of the Skyline Apartments complex after a four-year lawsuit against Green Skyline Apartments, LLC ended—hundreds of tenants suffered from severe habitability issues including infestations, mold, and broken elevators. This settlement provides a long-awaited relief for those who endured unsafe living conditions.

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.

Anella Concert

7-9:30 p.m. — Westcott Theater — Tickets starting at $75 — Experience an unforgettable performance from Anella in Syracuse.