Good morning, Buffalo.

A home explosion a few days ago killed 78-year-old Joene Pease and left her husband John critically injured, and the family launched a GoFundMe — they thanked first responders and asked for privacy during this difficult time.

Walden Galleria, the largest shopping mall in Western New York, is in danger of foreclosure — its owner Pyramid Management Group missed a May 1 payment on a $220 million loan — as officials warn that extending the payment terms appears limited.

Local leaders stress that the mall's strong occupancy and significant tax contributions may play a role in its future recovery.

A Buffalo man, 43-year-old Luke A.

Darling, is accused of driving while drunk and causing a crash on Columbia Avenue in Lancaster that injured 18-year-old Lincoln Counihan, a high school senior now at ECMC; he is held without bail and will return for a pre-trial hearing on June 4—if convicted, he could face up to 15 years in prison.

The Brazen Faced Varlets production of THE EARLY GIRL, a play by Caroline Kava directed by Leyla Gentil-Rosado, draws praise for its strong ensemble work and fresh cast including newcomer Kai Crumley.

The play runs from May 9th to May 25th at the Compass Performing Arts Center (545 Elmwood Ave) with performances on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday (at 7:30 p.m., 5:00 p.m. and 2:00 p.m.).

Springville-Griffith Institute High School received one of 12 USDA Project SCALES grants to bring locally sourced food into its menu.

In April the school purchased 500 pounds of ground beef from a steer named Mr. Bojangles raised by the Mesch family in Collins — boosting its agriculture program.

The Buffalo Bills released a 2025 schedule video powered by AI that featured former basketball star Allen Iverson interacting with Bills GM Brandon Beane and QB Josh Allen.

The video—released yesterday after long anticipation—showed Iverson’s playful reaction as he confirmed the new schedule.

Today the Buffalo Bandits will play game 1 of the NLL finals against Saskatchewan Rush at KeyBank Center beginning at 7:30 p.m.—fans can join a pre-game party starting at 5:30 p.m. in the plaza with music, giveaways and special photo opportunities.

The 2025 NFL schedule is released and Bills fans are starting to plan trips to see away games in cities like Miami and Charlotte.

AAA of Western and Central New York says group travel packages will be offered once tickets are secured—fans have already begun calling to book trips.

Warren Zeiders Live Performance

6 PM – 12 AM — Terminal B — Ticket prices vary — Experience the electrifying sounds of Warren Zeiders in a vibrant setting at Buffalo Outer Harbor.

Lettuce Concert

7-8:30 p.m. — Electric City — Tickets on sale now — Experience the magic of a six-member musical collective blending funk with hip-hop, rock, and jazz.

Smoking Popes & Off With Their Heads Concert

7-9 p.m. — Rec Room — No cover charge — Catch Smoking Popes deliver their upbeat blend of punk rock in an intimate setting.

Totally Buffalo Festival 2025

10 a.m. – 5 p.m. — Buffalo RiverWorks — Free entry — Celebrate Buffalo with local artisans, food, live music, and family-friendly fun on Memorial Weekend!

Monday Morning Holiday Paddle

10 a.m. — North Tonawanda Botanical Gardens — Participation at your own risk — A scenic paddle launch to embrace the holiday spirit before the rain sets in.

Grace Lougen Live Performance

7:30-10:30 p.m. — The Caz — $20 — Experience a captivating night of music featuring award-winning guitarist Grace Lougen and guests.

The Garcia Project Tribute Show

8-11 p.m. — Buffalo Iron Works — Tickets available — Experience a faithful performance of classic Jerry Garcia Band set lists spanning 1976-1995.

The Unlikely Candidates Live Concert

6:30-8 p.m. — Rec Room — $27.47 — After Dark presents an evening with The Unlikely Candidates and special guests for an entertaining night out.

Grappling Industries Buffalo Tournament

9 AM – 11 PM — Kevin T. Keane Sports Park at Nardin Academy — Check the website for registration fees — Experience an exciting day of grappling competitions in the heart of Buffalo.

Simple Plan Live Concert

6-9 p.m. — Terminal B — Ticket prices vary — Experience the energetic performance of Simple Plan at Buffalo Outer Harbor.