Good morning, Buffalo.

The annual Cherry Blossom Festival will take place this weekend at Delaware Park—featuring local vendors, food trucks and many photo opportunities.

At-risk youth in Buffalo join the H.E.A.T. program—run by Back to Basics Outreach Ministry and Buffalo Peacemakers—to learn skills that help them avoid gun violence and gangs.

Local teens like 20-year-old Amariyoa and 17-year-old Kamari now use their experience to guide others in staying out of trouble.

Independent Bookstore Day took place over the weekend in western New York on April 24th.

The event allowed local book lovers to celebrate and support their independent bookstores.

The University at Buffalo Center for the Arts will host its 30th Spring into Art celebration on Tuesday, April 29 from 5–7 p.m. as free family-friendly performances, exhibitions, and hands-on art activities invite the community to explore UB’s creative spaces and meet local artists.

Erie County DMV will extend its hours at Eastern Hills Mall for the next two Mondays from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.—this lets residents apply for a REAL ID needed for domestic flights and federal building access by May 7.

Construction is well underway on a $47.5 million renovation at Buffalo Harbor State Park that will add a 6,500 square-foot interactive spray park, a cafe, retail space, and a buffalo-shaped fountain—temporary restrooms are in use while the current playground remains closed, and work will continue over the summer with completion set for Memorial Day.

ECIDA recaptured over $500,000 in tax breaks from Sumitomo after it closed its Tonawanda plant and approved over $4 million in tax breaks for four manufacturing projects in Tonawanda, Buffalo, and Orchard Park—supporting more than $120 million in private investment and job creation—while Sumitomo repaid funds to local governments.

Multiple Western New Yorkers expressed health concerns after working at the Niagara Falls Goodyear plant where an investigation revealed cancer-causing chemical emissions up to seven times over current standards — with at least 50 workers having been diagnosed with bladder cancer.

Former employees criticized the lack of warning on dangerous exposure while the company said it meets permit requirements and tests employee exposure every six months.

Mosaic Lamp Making Workshop

10 AM – 5 PM — Holiday Inn Express & Suites Tonawanda — Cost info not provided — Create your own vibrant and unique traditional mosaic lamp in this fun workshop.

Battle At The Powerhouse - Pokemon Tournament

10 AM – 5 PM — The Powerhouse by The Rich Entertainment Group — Entry details to be announced — Experience WNY's largest Pokemon TCG tournament along with a variety of vendors and collectibles.

The Bouncing Souls Live

6-9 p.m. — Town Ballroom — Ages 12+, Minors must be accompanied by a parent — Experience an energetic night with The Bouncing Souls and special guests.

Jon Anderson Live

7:30-10:30 p.m. — Riviera Theatre — Ticket details available on-site — Experience YES epics and the band's new album 'TRUE'.

Michigan Rattlers Concert

7-9:30 p.m. — Rec Room — Buy tickets — Enjoy a night of live music with the Michigan Rattlers in Buffalo.

Buffalo Philharmonic Orchestra: Ron Spigelman - Indiana Jones and the Raiders of the Lost Ark

7:30-11:30 p.m. — Kleinhans Music Hall — Tickets from $53 — Experience the iconic film score live as the Buffalo Philharmonic Orchestra performs with Raiders of the Lost Ark.

BB's Bingo Sto Lat

6 PM — Sto Lat Bar & Restaurant — Free entry — Experience a redefined bingo night that's perfectly different and enjoyable.

Jesse Cook Concert

7-9:30 p.m. — Electric City — Last-minute ticket pricing available — Experience the rhythms of Jesse Cook live in Buffalo.

The Pretty Reckless Concert

7-9:30 p.m. — Electric City — $48 — Catch The Pretty Reckless live for a night of rocking music and great vibes.

Naruto - The Symphonic Experience

7:30-10:30 p.m. — Shea's Buffalo Theatre — Ticket prices vary — Experience a live symphonic performance that brings the beloved scenes of Naruto to life.