☀️ Today’s Weather
We'll start with some early rain and rumbles of thunder before the sun breaks through mid-morning into early afternoon. But don't get too comfortable: from 1 PM to 10 PM, strong to severe thunderstorms are in the forecast, with the main threats being damaging wind gusts, an isolated tornado or two, some hail, and potential flash flooding. It's going to feel hot and humid with a high of 83° (a bit cooler near the lakes and rivers), dropping down to 53° overnight. So if you're heading out to see Killer Queen at the Landmark Theatre tonight, keep an eye on the radar and maybe grab an umbrella on your way out the door.
🗞️ Top Stories
1. SU Chancellor Kent Syverud Diagnosed with Brain Cancer, Steps Down Immediately
In a heartbreaking announcement that stunned the SU community Wednesday, Chancellor Kent Syverud revealed he has been diagnosed with a form of brain cancer. Syverud reported feeling ill last week and underwent care at Crouse Hospital in Syracuse before traveling to the University of Michigan for further evaluation, where the diagnosis was confirmed. Chancellor-elect Michael Haynie, who was already scheduled to take over after graduation in May, will now assume all leadership responsibilities immediately. Syverud had led SU for 12 years and was set to become University of Michigan's next president, a role he has had to step away from. Our thoughts are with him and his family.
2. South Side Shooting Leaves 68-Year-Old in Critical Condition
Syracuse Police are investigating a shooting on the city's South Side that left a 68-year-old victim in critical condition. Neighbors on Palmer Avenue reported hearing at least five shots fired, and police closed off two blocks as part of the investigation. No arrests have been announced yet. This is a developing story worth keeping an eye on.
3. Orange Women's Lacrosse Players Land in Historic First-Ever WLL College Draft
It was a big night for SU women's lacrosse Wednesday, the first-ever WLL College Draft aired on ESPNU, and current Orange defender Coco Vandiver was selected 16th overall by the California Palms. This comes on the heels of four other former SU standouts — Meaghan Tyrrell, Natalie Smith, Savannah Sweitzer, and Delaney Sweitzer — having been selected in the WLL Supplemental Draft last month. The Orange program is making a serious mark on women's professional lacrosse, and it's only just getting started.
⚡ Quick Hits
Abbott Farms is closed until further notice — no word yet on why, but keep an eye on their social pages for updates if you had any plans out there.
Auburn's fire chief is raising alarms about potential staffing cuts that could impact fire protection response times across the city.
Lysander residents are pushing back on a proposed data center on a site listed for $60 million, residents say it doesn't belong there.
SU hoops keeps building: former Orange star Ryan Blackwell has been added to Gerry McNamara's staff as Director of Player Engagement, and former SU player Chance Westry has landed a new home in the Big East.
A GoFundMe has been created for an elderly woman displaced from her Bellevue Avenue home of 68 years, a tough situation worth a few dollars if you're feeling generous.
📅 Events This Week
Killer Queen: A Tribute to Queen — Thursday, April 16 at 8 PM at the Landmark Theatre; one of the best tribute acts around in one of CNY's most beautiful venues, worth every penny.
DaBaby – Be More Grateful Tour — Friday, April 17 at 6 PM at Sharkey's under the Burritt Motors Pavilion in Liverpool; a solid Friday night hip-hop show just north of the city.
Syracuse Wine Festival 2026 — Saturday, April 18 at The Oncenter; two sessions (1–4 PM and 6–9 PM, with VIP entry at 5 PM for Session 2), grab Session 2 VIP tickets before they disappear.
Cavalcade of Cars — Saturday–Sunday, April 18–19 at the NYS Fairgrounds Expo Center; two days of hot rods, classics, and customs, a true CNY spring tradition.
Geek/Art CONfluence 2026 — Sunday, April 19 from 11 AM–5 PM at SU's Schine Student Center; free comic-con style fun with cosplay, vendors, games, and creators, bring the whole family.
Stay safe out there today. Watch the skies after lunch and we'll see you back here tomorrow morning.