Good morning, Syracuse.

Medhat al-Rubei, a 19-year-old refugee who once thrived as an exchange student in Cazenovia, now lives in Cairo after Israel’s offensive on Gaza forced his family to flee in December 2023—his foster family continues to work for his new beginning.

On Friday, ten students and two teachers from Lockerbie Academy joined 35 Syracuse University remembrance scholars in a cold, rainy rose laying ceremony at the memorial near the Hall of Languages to honor the Pan-Am Flight 103 victims.

The event underscored the bond between the communities as 17-year-old James Johnson and his peers remembered the 35 SU students and 11 ground victims—marking a tribute that brings past sorrow into present unity.

Jeff Knauss has raised over $20,000 to buy $150 Wegmans gift cards for families losing SNAP benefits after USDA cuts, and 15 to 20 people apply for a card every minute.

He is working with Wegmans—his partner in helping families in Syracuse and Rochester get quick support.

Jamesville Hardware owner Robert Powell announced his retirement and will close his store after more than 46 years of service in the community.

He sold the building to someone starting a photography business — Powell is now holding a liquidation sale of his remaining inventory.

Chance, a dog stabbed in the throat on Oct.21 in the 500 block of East Willow Street, was discharged from the hospital Tuesday and is now recovering in a foster home—police continue to investigate the attack with a $2,500 reward offered.

Delaney De’lee launched Craft Club by Cozy Crafts in September to offer a welcoming space for Syracuse adults to relax and create together.

The club held its first Color & Chill event on Sept 28 and its second event—with over 80 attendees, live DJ, and free finger food—will be followed by more downtown gatherings.

Lew Rapaport and his wife, Susan, established a Maxwell Endowed Undergraduate Scholarship fund with a $100,000 gift on Oct.

27 to reduce the financial burden on undergraduates at Maxwell School—reinforcing their ongoing commitment to supporting Syracuse University students. This donation builds on an earlier scholarship and marks another milestone in their long-lasting legacy with the school.

On October 28th, the Syracuse Housing Authority and McCormack Baron Salazar began demolishing McKinney Manor—a 75-unit public housing complex in East Adams—to clear space for future housing projects and community investments such as early learning services and a YMCA.

Residents, who were relocated earlier this year, will have the right to return when new housing is completed in 2027.

After a two-month grace period ends on Nov.

2, Syracuse will begin fining motorists $50 for speeding in school zones next week—city officials noted some camera sites will be relocated or adjusted with new warning periods.

A team including Syracuse University’s Professor Pranav Soman received an NIH grant to study how hesperidin, a citrus compound, can improve bone treatment with fewer side effects.

Led by UNC Adams School of Dentistry, the project will build an organ-on-a-chip model (simulating a human jawbone) (to lower BMP-2 side effects), aiming to boost healthy bone growth.

Tom Golisano announced Tuesday the formation of the Golisano Children's Alliance — a network of 10 hospitals in the eastern U.S. that will share resources to boost pediatric care.

Three hospitals already bear his name and six more will soon be renamed as they receive part of a $253 million fund spread over five years.

City officials and Home Headquarters previewed on Oct.

28 the construction of four energy-efficient affordable homes on Tipperary Hill—part of New York State's Affordable Homeownership Opportunity Program and the city's Resurgent Neighborhood Initiative offering these homes to income-eligible buyers.

SOPHISTAFUNK with The Basement Chronicles

7:15-10:15 p.m. — Funk 'n Waffles — Tickets starting at $18.22 — Experience infectious hip-hop beats and good vibes from local favorites.

Carter Vail - The Coy Dog Tour

7-9:30 p.m. — Westcott Theater — Ticket info TBA — Experience the infectious pop-rock of Carter Vail as he brings humor and heart to life on stage.

Monmouth Hawks vs. Syracuse Orange Basketball

9:00–10:30 PM — JMA Wireless Dome — Ticket prices vary — Cheer on the Monmouth Hawks as they face the Syracuse Orange in an exciting basketball matchup.

Snaps & Taps Open Mic Night

6-8 p.m. — Community Folk Art Center — Free entry — Showcase your talent with poetry, music, and comedy in a supportive atmosphere.

Ariel Pink Concert

8:00-9:30 p.m. — Westcott Theater — Tickets from $116 — Experience a night of unforgettable music with Ariel Pink in Syracuse.

New York State Craft Brewers Festival

4:00-5:30 p.m. — Landmark Theatre — VIP tickets available — Sample brews from over 45 NY breweries while enjoying BBQ pairings.

Friends Of The Central Library Author Series: Liz Moore

7:30-9 p.m. — Crouse Hinds Concert Theater — $ — Enjoy a night of literary insights with acclaimed author Liz Moore.

Elmo and Friends Say Hello

6:00-7:30 p.m. — Landmark Theatre — Ticket required for ages 2+ — Sing, dance, and play with Elmo and friends in a fun celebration on Sesame Street.

Gingerbread Gallery Grand Opening

4-6 p.m. — Erie Canal Museum — Free entry — Celebrate the holiday season with festive gingerbread creations, cookies, cocoa, and live music.