Here's your local news at a glance for Friday, the 3rd of July.
Good morning, Buffalo.
Tonawanda Supervisor John Flynn said that Tonawanda will be the first municipality to kick off 4th of July celebrations with the Kenny Field Fireworks show on Saturday, July 4 at Kenny Field — sparking early holiday festivities.
Tom Kucharski retired after 26 years as president and CEO of Invest Buffalo Niagara (ending a quarter century of service) and his departure marks a major change for the organization driving local growth.
With record heat affecting Buffalo today, Ryan Meissner of Valu said demand for air conditioners has surged & the store is increasing inventory to meet customer needs.
The Somali flag was stolen from the City of Buffalo flagpole at Niagara Square on July 1 after being raised for Somalian Independence Day, and police are investigating how vandals broke the access panel and cut a cable.
The World's Largest Rubber Duck returned to Canalside on Thursday, kicking off Fourth of July weekend festivities that include a sold-out Buffalo Philharmonic Orchestra performance at Terminal B—visitors can get a close look at the six-story duck amid family-friendly waterfront events.
Farms across Western NY can apply for tariff relief under a new state program that offers between $1,000 and $25,000 in support (2,655 farms are eligible) and producers should check the application details soon.
Meteorologist Andy Parker warned that storms from last night may repeat tonight + residents should check local forecasts for updates.
Big Tree EMS will transition from a paid service to an all-volunteer system later this month after Hamburg extended its own medical director services to the agency (resulting in loss of paid positions).
Michigan Street Bridge is closed to vehicles and pedestrians after extreme heat expanded its metal and caused an electrical issue; crews used a fireboat to cool it down & have not set a reopening time.
Locals are advised to use alternate routes like the Ohio Street Bridge.
Douglas Jemal, developer of the historic Statler Hotel, sold two properties to focus on redeveloping the site, which will add 499 apartments, 219 hotel rooms, and retail space downtown, and he is seeking state assistance — needed for an estimated additional $150 million — as discussions continue with elected leaders.
A former passenger rail house in Black Rock sold for $5.8M after a six-year transformation; an Ellicottville hotel project now includes a restaurant and event space, and a four-bedroom home sold north of $1M in Erie County.
Cosmic Baseball is coming to Sahlen Field tomorrow — fans can enjoy a unique twist on the game as the Bisons bring a cosmic theme, reported by Brad Bisbing with the Bisons.
2026 QCC Pool Party
Noon-9 PM — SOL Buffalo — Rain or Shine — Enjoy live performances and vibrant vibes at this exciting pool party event.
Broadway Karaoke Matinee Fundraiser
6:30 PM – 11:59 PM — Town Ballroom — 100% of proceeds donated — Sing Broadway songs while supporting the reopening of Matinee Buffalo.
Circle Thursdays: Kid Capri Concert
5-8 p.m. — Buffalo Central Terminal — Free entry — Kid Capri lights up the summer with a block party concert at a historic venue.
Back and Forth - Foo Fighters Tribute
8-11 p.m. — The Cave — $20 + Online Fee — Experience a high-energy tribute to the Foo Fighters with all their classic hits and rare tracks.
Chuck Ragan Live
7-10 p.m. — Town Ballroom — 16+ Admitted — Enjoy an electrifying performance from Chuck Ragan and On The Cinder.
Youth Improv Camp 2026
9:00 – 10:30 AM — Buffalo Improv House — Registration required — A fun-filled week of theater games and improv comedy for kids entering 6th to 9th grade.
The Reverend Peyton's Big Damn Band
7-10 p.m. — The Caz — $25.00 – $35.00 — Experience the soulful sounds of the greatest front-porch blues band in the world.
The Sloppy Boys Concert
8 p.m. — Rec Room — Ticket prices vary — Enjoy an evening of fun with The Sloppy Boys at Buffalo's lively venue.
Big Gigantic at Electric City
8 p.m. — Electric City — Ticket info available — Experience the electrifying performance of Big Gigantic in Buffalo.
The Boardr Series - Buffalo Skateboarding Contest
Time TBA — Food Court Skatepark — Entry Fee Required — Experience an all-ages skateboarding contest that promises fun for every skill level.
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