Good morning, Syracuse.

Section III winter sports teams are celebrating the holidays with traditions (such as charity tournaments, secret Santa exchanges, and community service projects) that bring festive cheer and support local families this season.

syracuse.com has updated its quarterly Syracuse Playlist to showcase local rap, rock, folk and pop artists via its website, The Post-Standard and Spotify while local musicians can email [email protected] to submit details for future awards.

This weekend, Disney on Ice runs at the Oncenter War Memorial, A Christmas Story concludes at Syracuse Stage, a Winter Bog Walk takes place today at Beaver Lake Nature Center in Baldwinsville, and a gingerbread exhibit opens at Erie Canal Museum until Jan.

11.

State records show Global Energy Efficiency Holdings Inc. owes over $6 million in taxes as of September (with part of the debt from Onondaga County), making it one of the largest business arrears in New York; another firm in Rockland County owes more than $13.9 million.

Mayor Walsh has issued a snow safety alert as heavy snow and strong winds create hazardous conditions in Syracuse today.

City crews will plow primary roads while police enforce alternate parking rules + residents are urged to clear sidewalks for safe travel.

Starting this spring, Hiscock Legal Aid Society will hire 11 attorneys and six support staff to launch its new Misdemeanor Defense Program for Syracuse courts.

Expected to be fully staffed by fall, the program aims to improve resource allocation for serious cases (streamlining legal aid across the system).

St. Joseph’s Health in Syracuse is renovating its inpatient psychiatric unit at the Clare Loeber Smith Center using a $16.9 million state grant to add more private rooms and serve up to 30 patients.

The hospital expects the updates to be completed by the end of 2027.

Syracuse sports have seen big changes in 2025 as SU football battled a quarterback shuffle and a tough transfer portal while men's basketball welcomed the return of key players, and lacrosse gained new momentum with a coaching shift - a season that recharged local pride.

Christian Brothers Academy football won four state championships in five years with a different quarterback at the helm each time – their 41-game win streak ranks as one of Section III’s best.

Former Syracuse starting wide receiver Umari Hatcher plans to enter the transfer portal, becoming the 22nd team member to explore options this offseason, his agent said.

Hatcher played four snaps this year after a season-ending injury and will need a hardship waiver to keep his eligibility.

Reporter Mike Waters noted (in his Mailbox) that Syracuse basketball attendance has hit historic lows with five home games under 14,000 fans, including Monday’s Stonehill game with 12,742 attendees.

He also answered questions on free throw streaks and center William Kyle’s senior status.

Syracuse football is expected to hire Perry Eliano as its defensive backs coach after his work at Toledo and Ohio State.

The move follows the non-renewal of Joe Schaefer's contract and supports coach Vince Kehres’ evolving defensive strategy.

Open Mic Night with ATTAMIZK & Friends

8:30-11 p.m. — Funk 'n Waffles — Tickets starting at $7.17 — Enjoy a night of live Americana music at Syracuse's vibrant open mic event.

Disney On Ice: Mickey's Search Party

4:00 – 5:30 PM — The Oncenter Civic Center Theaters — Ticket prices vary — Experience an enchanting ice show featuring Mickey and friends on a thrilling adventure.

New Year’s Eve Party with Sophistafunk and Special Guests

8:30 PM - 1:00 AM — Funk 'n Waffles — Tickets starting at $29.30 — Celebrate New Year’s Eve with a night of funk, hip hop, and special guests including sax legend Sam Kininger.

Scars N’ Stripes Holiday Hangover

8 PM - 12 AM — Middle Ages Brewing Company — Check event page for ticket pricing — Rock out with Scars N’ Stripes as they bring high energy to chase away the holiday blues.

Stanford Cardinal at Syracuse Orange Women's Basketball

2-4 p.m. — JMA Wireless Dome — Ticket prices vary — Witness the exciting women's basketball rivalry between Stanford and Syracuse.

SAFe® 5.1 Lean Portfolio Management Training

Jan 22-23 — North Syracuse, NY — Early Bird Price: $1299 — Gain essential tools for implementing Lean Portfolio Management in this hands-on workshop.

New York Sportsman's Expo

12 PM – 5 PM — New York State Fairgrounds — Entry fee varies — Explore all things outdoors and meet over 200 vendors at the NY Sportsman's Expo.

Brahms & Debussy

6-7:30 p.m. — Crouse Hinds Concert Theater — $50 — Experience a unique blend of orchestral music with a video game twist while enjoying exclusive pre-concert snacks.

21st Annual Cazenovia Children's House Chilly Chili 5K

11:30 a.m. — 31 Emory Ave, Cazenovia, NY — Registration fee applies — Get ready to run or walk in this chilly 5K event followed by a fun party.