Daily
Syracuse
Thursday, November 20th, 2025
Good morning, Syracuse. Here's your local news at a glance for Thursday, the 20th of November.
COMMUNITY NEWS
- ➤ Local nonprofits including PEACE Inc., United Way, the Salvation Army and InterFaith Works have organized holiday giving opportunities for Syracuse residents to donate essential items and volunteer. Events are scheduled from Dec. 5 to Dec. 12 (times vary by location). Syracuse University
BUSINESS NEWS
- ➤ IKEA is finalizing its new 70,000‑square‑foot store at Destiny USA in Syracuse, set to open on Friday. The store will offer over 5,500 display items and more than 3,000 for purchase — the grand celebration begins at 7:30 a.m. with a DJ, giveaways, prizes, and gift cards before doors open at 10 a.m. CNY Central
- ➤ Brickyard Tavern & Barbecue in LaFayette has been selling brisket, ribs, and homemade sausage out of two renovated buildings along U.S. Route 11 since it opened two weeks ago—locals now rush early for their takeout meals. The owners did most of the work themselves and plan to add a large new smoker as they work to make the venue a local destination. Syracuse.com
CULTURE NEWS
- ➤ Jamie Hantke, known as Big Smoothie, ended his nearly 25-year radio career on Thursday after being let go from K-Rock, where he hosted a weekday show from 3 to 7 p.m.—Galaxy Media said his time slot will be filled by Bender from TK99. He told fans on social media he is at peace with the change—he plans to focus on running his local gym, 315 Strong The Gym, while sharing live videos on TikTok and Twitch. Syracuse.com
EDUCATION NEWS
- ➤ Syracuse City School District reduced the former superintendent’s contract from $125,000 to $72,917 after public backlash and internal reviews — focusing on coaching principals instead of a broader review of district plans. The revised contract was presented at a work session on Nov 19 and will go to a vote at the business meeting on Dec 10. Syracuse.com
GOVERNMENT NEWS
- ➤ On Wednesday, County Executive Ryan McMahon said an offer was made to 91-year-old Azalia King in Clay for her home at White Pine Commerce Park to clear the way for a planned Micron facility+ her family is considering the offer as county officials continue serious negotiations while construction for the first semiconductor fab is set to begin in Spring. CNY Central
- ➤ The Syracuse Housing Authority will raise flat rents in 2026 and each year through 2028 to meet a federal mandate—residents can choose to pay the new flat rate or 30% of their income when they renew their leases. Nearly 200 households will benefit from a cap that keeps their payments lower. Central Current
- ➤ The Syracuse Housing Authority will offer some residents a choice between income-adjusted and flat rent as City Hall prepares for a leadership shift, and election candidates have debated plans for I-81 removal and public housing redevelopment. Food banks are expanding their offerings to help residents cope with frozen SNAP benefits — Central Current reported these updates to address key community needs. Central Current
SPORTS NEWS
- ➤ Syracuse held off Monmouth's late surge to win 78–73 on Tuesday—despite free throw struggles in the second half—and coach Adrian Autry said the team will work on free throw accuracy as it prepares for tougher matchups. Syracuse.com
- ➤ Frankie Montas was designated for assignment by the Mets Tuesday because his Tommy John surgery means he will miss the 2026 season— the club picked outfielder Nick Morabito from their Double-A team in Binghamton for the Rule 5 draft. Montas still has $17 million left on his contract as the team makes room for new players. Syracuse.com
- ➤ Section III high school field hockey has released its final overall stats leaders for 2025—revealing top players in key categories from the season's tournament. Syracuse.com
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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Live Like Liam 5K Run & Walk
8:30-10 a.m. — Jamesville-DeWitt High School — Registration required — Celebrate life and community while supporting children with special needs in honor of Liam Zoghby.
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Anime Night Before Christmas
7-11 p.m. — The Song & Dance — Ticketed event — Experience the blend of anime culture with live music, vendors, and cosplay fun.
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Syracuse City Ballet Presents The Nutcracker
2:00 – 3:30 PM — Crouse Hinds Concert Theater — Cost TBD — Enjoy the annual holiday favorite as Syracuse City Ballet brings The Nutcracker to life.
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Syracuse City Ballet's The Nutcracker
2:00 – 3:30 PM — Crouse Hinds Concert Theater — Ticket prices may vary — Experience the magic of the holiday season with the annual presentation of The Nutcracker by the Syracuse City Ballet.
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The Bog Brothers Live
7:30-10:30 p.m. — Funk 'n Waffles — Tickets starting at $13.07 — Experience a lively evening of Americana music with The Bog Brothers, a local favorite blending roots and folk styles.
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Guys and Dolls
7-10 p.m. — Redhouse Arts Center — Check website for ticket pricing — A classic musical filled with charm and wit set in New York City.
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TODAY'S FOOD FOR THOUGHT
All progress depends on the unreasonable person.
~ George Bernard Shaw
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