Good morning, Buffalo.

On Friday morning, President and CEO Erin Grajek broke ground on a $31 million expansion and renovation at the Botanical Gardens while the site remains open for visitors during construction.

The design includes a new welcome center, gift shop, café, learning lab and an event space called The Canopy — with $15 million in state funds and work expected to finish by December 2026.

A jury convicted Alphonso Payne on Friday on 10 counts including the 2019 killing of federal informant Joshua Jalovick (shot during a dice game in Schiller Park).

Buffalo joins the global Make Music Day celebration today with free concerts at Island Park, Flying Bison Brewing Co., Delaware Park, and The Cave—along with Porchfests in South Buffalo and Lewiston.

The event, led by Tod A. Kniazuk, brings together musicians of all skill levels to enjoy live music on the summer solstice.

In Buffalo, the independent expenditure committee Common Sense for the City of Buffalo sent unsolicited texts against mayoral candidate Sean Ryan, saying he takes funds from NYC donors— the group raised $50,000 from five donors and faced technical issues filing with the state board of elections. Consultant Richard Horner said he managed the message strategy, while Ryan demanded full donor disclosure before the primary on June 24.

Buffalo city officials gave Sylvia's House a Cease All Operations Order on June 19th for operating an illegal shelter at 1947 Bailey Avenue that violated building codes, leaving up to 65 vulnerable people without a safe place to stay.

Organizers are searching for a new location—efforts to secure safe shelter for veterans, elders, and disabled individuals remain uncertain—while residents worry about what comes next.

City officials shut down Sylvia's House at 1947 Bailey Avenue (the shelter moved in last week without inspection) after a cease operations order was issued for building code violations.

Acting Mayor Christopher Scanlon and Council President Bryan Bollman said the facility is unsafe for residents and will remain closed until it meets safety requirements.

The Pennrose team awaits a Buffalo Planning Board review on June 30 for its $190 million Canalside project plus will secure financing before construction begins in early fall.

The project calls for a 12-story, a 5-story and a single-story building that will hold 251 apartments plus 17,000 square feet for retail.

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.

Live Band Karaoke

10:00 – 11:30 PM — Rec Room — Tickets starting at $7.73 — Sing your heart out with a live band to your favorite pop and Top 40 hits.

Origami Angel Concert

7-11 p.m. — Town Ballroom — 16+ entry with ID — Enjoy a night of vibrant music with Origami Angel and special guests.

Family Fun Silent Disco

1-5 p.m. — Buffalo RiverWorks — Family-friendly event — Enjoy a unique dance experience with silent disco fun for the whole family.

Bear Hands Concert

8:00 – 9:30 PM — Rec Room — $56 — Enjoy a high-energy performance by Bear Hands at this exciting local venue.

KeyBank Independence Eve Celebration: Buffalo Bisons vs. Rochester Red Wings

6:35-8:05 PM — Sahlen Field — Tickets required — Enjoy a thrilling baseball game followed by a delightful orchestral concert and fireworks.

Greensky Bluegrass Concert

6:30-9:30 p.m. — Terminal B — Get your tickets now — Experience a night of vibrant bluegrass music with Greensky Bluegrass during their summer tour.