Good morning, Buffalo.

On Saturday, the Diocese of Buffalo ordained its only priest this year, C.J.

Wild, a Lancaster native who sees the shortage as a faith challenge. Rising church attendance via online ministries has spurred hope; the diocese has 10 seminarians and expects more vocations next year — more priests are needed.

In downtown Buffalo, Falafel House opened its second location at 58 Niagara Street two weeks ago, offering fresh Mediterranean food including shawarma and baklava.

The restaurant is open for lunch and dinner Monday through Saturday (owner Hossam Abdallah said early response is positive).

East Aurora was named a Northeast Regional Winner in PARADE Magazine’s “America’s Favorite Small Towns” contest and reached the final round for the national title, with the ultimate winner to be announced later in June.

Visit Buffalo nominated the community and highlighted local landmarks such as Roycroft Campus and Main Street shops.

Buffalo’s Black community marked 50 years of Juneteenth celebrations on Monday, June 8 when the red, black and green Pan-African flag was raised at Niagara Square (a symbolic start) ahead of the festival at MLK Park, which will run June 13-14 with a parade, vendors and cultural programming.

Buffalo photographer Yves-Richard Blanc will offer free Juneteenth portrait sessions at Martin Luther King Jr. Park on Saturday and Sunday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.—he aims to deliver over 2,000 edited images for headshots and keepsakes.

Union Pacific’s Big Boy No. 4014 is passing through Western New York this week as part of America’s 250th anniversary celebration.

It will be on display from Tuesday through Thursday for locals to view.

Shea’s Performing Arts Center announced that Tony Award-winning Ragtime will launch its North American tour at Shea’s Buffalo Theatre in fall 2027.

Ticket details and performance dates will be provided later.

The University at Buffalo will end its oral and maxillofacial surgery residency program at the end of this academic year, and local experts warn that patients may soon face reduced access to specialized care.

Attorneys at Stamm law firm explained that probate starts when a family member files a petition and gathers required documents (affidavits, petitions, notary signatures), which can delay access to funds until an executor is appointed.

They will explain ways to avoid probate on next week’s 2 Your Money.

SUNY Erie announced a planned upgrade to its athletics facility—construction will begin soon on campus to offer improved practice areas and modern equipment for student sports.

Buffalo Niagara Waterkeeper unveiled 15 new Blueway signage sites, including 14 other Erie County spots, on Monday, June 8 to boost eco-tourism and educate visitors about local waterways (following over $35 million in local Greenway funding).

AAA reminds ATV owners that they must carry liability insurance when taking their vehicles off private property this summer.

The minimum coverage required is $25,000 per person, $50,000 per accident, and $10,000 for property damage (the rule has been in place since the late 1980s).

Buffalo Fire Department’s 126-year-old Edward M Cotter fireboat is set to receive new transmission & engine upgrades using $125,000 in state funds, while a private donation improves its galley.

Western New York Olympic gold medalist Hayley Scamurra recapped her team's wild hockey season in 2026, sharing how they faced challenges + surprises on the ice.

She noted that the tough games built team spirit and highlighted their hard work this past season.

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.

The Marcus King Band

8:00 – 9:30 p.m. — Terminal B — From €69 — Experience the vibrant sound of The Marcus King Band live in an open-air venue.

Mac Saturn Concert

8:00 – 9:30 PM — Rec Room — Tickets from $32 — Experience an exciting live concert by Mac Saturn in Buffalo.

Cold War Kids with almost monday

6:00-7:30 p.m. — Terminal B, Buffalo, NY — Tickets on sale now — Enjoy an evening of alternative indie music with Cold War Kids and almost monday.

Chris Webby Live in Concert

7-10 p.m. — Town Ballroom — Meet & Greet and VIP packages available — Experience an unforgettable night with Chris Webby and special guests Spose and Quake Matthews.

Dark Star Orchestra Concert

7:00 – 8:30 PM — Terminal B — Ticketed event — Experience the ultimate Grateful Dead tribute with unmatched detail and talent.

An Acoustic Evening with Trey Anastasio

7:30-9 p.m. — Kleinhans Music Hall — Tickets available March 20 at 10 AM — Experience a night of acoustic melodies from the celebrated Phish guitarist.