Good morning, Buffalo.

Yesterday, the Bills hosted their third annual Community Takeover Day, visiting eight local schools to play football, lead games, and inspire students.

Head Coach Joe Brady and team members strengthened community ties with activities that left young fans excited.

The American Patriot, a new 130-passenger cruise ship, will dock tonight at 9 p.m. in Erie Canal Harbor and Gov. Kathy Hochul said its arrival signals a renewed focus on the waterfront by promising new visitors and local revenue.

Buffalo Zoo welcomed a newborn black howler monkey on Apr.

20; the baby, born to first-time parents Rio (7) and Tater (8), is on exhibit daily at Rainforest Falls until noon as part of the zoo's conservation efforts.

Tim Collins from the Buffalo Astronomical Association said a meteor passed through Western New York early Wednesday morning, drawing attention from local skywatchers.

Taste of Buffalo organizers announced the lineup of local restaurants set to serve dishes at the upcoming food festival in the city.

More details on schedules and participating spots will be shared soon (check for updates).

Taste of Buffalo festival, presented by Tops Friendly Markets, will feature 42 restaurants—with 13 debuting—for food lovers at Niagara Square on July 11 and July 12.

More details on local entertainment will be shared later this summer.

43North will end its $5 million startup competition in 2026 after more than ten years of boosting Buffalo’s startup scene.

Its foundation will invest $100 million to support local innovation following the program’s launch in 2014 by New York State, Empire State Development, and the New York Power Authority.

The Buffalo Niagara region’s unemployment rate dropped to 4.1% in April, marking its lowest level since December.

A shrinking labor force offset fewer workers holding jobs.

Jason Mazeski advanced his career after earning an accelerated master’s in adult education from Buffalo State.

The program now offers an instructional design microcredential and flexible online classes that give students practical skills for professional training roles.

For nearly two decades, Patti Stephen has led Buffalo Prep to help over 800 local scholars succeed; she is stepping down this summer, and executive director David Johnson will take over on July 1 as the program continues offering tutoring, college counseling, and mentorship + bridging education gaps.

Governor Hochul announced that Buffalo's 43North startup program (which has boosted local jobs and innovation) will end in 2027 after 13 years.

The government also introduced the 43North Foundation in fall to support founders, improve talent pipelines, and expand access to capital.

A state Supreme Court ruling awarded ownership of AM&A's building downtown to an investment group that first tried to purchase it six years ago.

The decision ended a long-standing legal dispute over property ownership.

Lespecial Concert

8:00-9:30 p.m. — Buffalo Iron Works — Tickets available — Experience an engaging night of music with Lespecial in a lively venue.

Cumulus Digital Edge: AI Networking Lunch

12-2 p.m. & 3-5 p.m. — Electric City — Free entry — Explore AI's impact on business while networking with local leaders.

Cocktails for a Cause

5:30-7:30 p.m. — Meet & Eat Charcuterie — General admission includes a complimentary drink — Enjoy cocktails and hors d’oeuvres while supporting local school field trips.

John Papa Gros Band Performance

7-10 p.m. — Town Ballroom — Ages 12+ — Experience the vibrant sounds of New Orleans with funk and R&B from the John Papa Gros Band and The Brass Machine.

Mariah The Scientist Concert

7-11 p.m. — Terminal B — Ticket prices vary — Experience the soulful performance of Mariah The Scientist live in Buffalo.

The Ghost Inside Concert

6-7:30 p.m. — Town Ballroom — Tickets from $86 — Experience an unforgettable performance by The Ghost Inside in Buffalo.

Vincen García Concert

7-10 p.m. — Town Ballroom — Ages 12+ | Minors under 16 must be accompanied by a parent — Experience the artistry of one of the top modern bassists in the global funk-fusion and jazz scene.

CSICon 2026

Time TBA — Hyatt Regency Buffalo / Hotel and Conference Center — Check event page for pricing — Engage with leading skeptics and scientists in discussions on critical thinking and scientific literacy.

FIFA World Cup Watch Parties

7 p.m. — Canalside, Buffalo, NY — Free entry — Cheer on the U.S. Men's National Team during the FIFA World Cup with live matches, food, and activities.

Gavin Petrie Band 20th Anniversary Show

8-11 p.m. — Sportsmen's Tavern — $20.00 + Online Fee — Celebrate 20 years of music with the Gavin Petrie Band and support local arts.