Good morning, Buffalo.

Two years after the Lockport Cave boat tour capsize on June 12th, 2023 that killed 65-year-old Harsad Shaw, several wrongful death and negligence lawsuits were filed against operators including Callahan and Burkwit—lawyers claim the boat’s design flaws, such as compromised dock floats, increased the risk of capsize while Gov. Hochul signed new oversight laws last year to improve safety.

State lawmakers are reviewing a bill that would lower the funding threshold to trigger prevailing wage requirements on private construction projects, which could add 23–30% to costs across Western New York.

Labor leaders insist higher wages are needed to keep up with rising living expenses—while developers warn the measure may freeze new construction plans.

Yard House from the Darden restaurant group is reportedly planning a new location at 1641 Niagara Falls Blvd in Amherst after the demolition of the former Applebee’s—its new site will offer over 100 draft beers along with burgers, tacos, and seafood.

Arts Services Inc. is seeking proposals from Western New York artists to create a 13 to 15 foot sculptural signpost that celebrates Buffalo’s 17 Sister Cities near the historic Immigrant Steps at Canalside.

The project marks the Erie Canal’s 200th Anniversary—proposals are due by 5 PM on June 18 with installation required by September 1.

Buffalo will host its 49th Juneteenth celebration on Saturday with a parade starting at 10:00 a.m. that is expected to attract nearly 4000 participants and conclude at MLK Park—featuring cultural events like dance, music, and African vendor displays—while honoring freedom and history.

A Buffalo lawmaker introduced legislation to create a new judicial district system that makes Erie County its own district and moves seven other counties into a new 15th Judicial District — the plan also reassigns parts of Rochester’s and Syracuse’s current districts.

Critics say the measure is politically motivated, and it was expected to reach a vote in Senate Rules and Assembly Ways and Means committees.

John Murphy, the longtime voice for the Bills, was named one of 12 inductees for the Greater Buffalo Sports Hall of Fame during an event at Dave and Adams Card World in Amherst on Wednesday.

The new class will join the Hall of Fame at the annual dinner this fall—honoring top local sports figures.

Hundreds of companies and thousands of runners took part in the JP Morgan Corporate Challenge at Delaware Park on Thursday, which started at 6:25 p.m. and ended with a post-race party until 10 p.m.—road closures began in the afternoon and Buffalo State University provided parking shuttles. FeedMore WNY benefited from the race.

Dance Spectrum: Competitive and Adult Programs

6:00-7:30 p.m. — Shea's Buffalo Theatre — Ticketed event — Experience an inspiring showcase of dance talent in a vibrant atmosphere.

Aaron Rizzo Live Performance

8-11 p.m. — The Caz — $19 — Experience genre-blending grooves from acclaimed songwriter Aaron Rizzo with special guest Erin Hoyle.

June Sober Social at Twentysixallen

7-9 p.m. — Twentysixallen — No cover — Mingle with the sober community over mocktails and enjoy a casual evening of connection.

Curtis Salgado Live Performance

8-11 p.m. — The Caz — $89 — Experience the powerhouse performance of award-winning blues artist Curtis Salgado with an all-inclusive dinner package.

Party on the Portico – Damone Jackson Outcome featuring MYQ Farrow Trio

6-8 p.m. — The Buffalo History Museum — $20 admission, $10 members — Enjoy a lakeside concert with food trucks and lawn games at a Buffalo tradition.

Caity Gyorgy Live Performance

7:30-9:00 p.m. — Kleinhans Music Hall — Tickets available — Experience the captivating sound of rising star jazz vocalist Caity Gyorgy in an unforgettable evening.

Speed Dating for Singles Ages 30-49

6:30-8:30 p.m. — RationAles — Ticket required — Meet potential matches in a fun, pressure-free speed dating atmosphere.

OnStage! The Little Mermaid - Weeks 2 & 3

9 AM - 4 PM — Elmwood Franklin School — Registration required — A captivating summer theater camp for kids aged 8-14, bringing Disney's magical underwater adventure to life.

Day of Caring

8:30 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. — United Way of Buffalo & Erie County — Volunteer opportunity — Roll up your sleeves to transform our community during this largest volunteer event.

Evening in Bloom

Evening in Bloom — 6-9 p.m. — Frank Lloyd Wright's Martin House — Individual tickets available — Enjoy upscale cuisine and beautiful live music in a magical garden setting.