Good morning, Buffalo.

The 5/14 Memorial Foundation named Chad Houston as its new executive director after a national search reviewed over 50 candidates.

Houston (a local resident of Hamlin Park near Tops Market) will lead plans to build a living memorial for the 10 lives lost in 2022.

Steve Tybor, a Buffalo native and CEO of Eight Days of Hope, said his group is sending heavy equipment—backhoes, bulldozers and bobcats—with certified operators to help in central Texas where severe flooding caused over 100 deaths and left more than 160 people missing.

He added that additional volunteer teams will be called in for later relief efforts.

Upstate Guns and Ammo experts stressed that locking up guns is key as up to 90 New Yorkers are hospitalized every year from accidental shootings — using a safe along with the basic lock can prevent up to 85% of such incidents and meets the legal requirement when children under 16 are present.

On Thursday, Areas—a Spanish travel concessions and retail company—announced it will buy Delaware North's U.S. airport hospitality division that runs food, beverage and retail services at 22 airports.

The deal will see 188 employees at Buffalo Niagara International Airport transfer to Areas pending regulatory approval.

Amherst town leaders reported progress on the new Costco at the former Tony Roma's site on Ridge Lea Road—officials are making road realignments and installing new traffic lights to address community traffic concerns.

Officials confirmed that both Costco and a nearby Dick's Sporting Goods will open in spring 2026—helped by a $3 million grant for traffic improvements.

Jesse Kohler took over Kohler Awning in 2020 when the pandemic began and led the family business through tough times in Cheektowaga—keeping quality high as he worked to serve local clients like the Bills and Sabres.

The company, known for its custom-made awnings and careful investments in better materials, plans to grow slowly each year—ensuring steady support for its longtime workers.

Federal Judge Lawrence Vilardo postponed sentencing for former DEA agent Joseph Bongiovanni and will hear arguments about his presentence report—if the defense wins, he may face 21 to 27 months in jail, but if prosecutors prevail, he could get up to 24 years.

Buffalo Police Commissioner Alphonso Wright said in a YouTube video that his department will increase enforcement to stop the rise of large, illegal disturbances involving minors—offenders may face fines up to $1,500 and 15 days in jail.

Williamsville North teacher Sherry Gibson has been accepted to the C-SPAN Classroom Teacher Fellowship program — one of five teachers nationwide chosen to join a neutral media initiative.

She will review C-SPAN footage and share key insights with her students — contributing to a free global database for educators.

Niagara Falls Country Club will host the 66th Porter Cup—one of the biggest amateur golf events in the country—from Wednesday, July 16 through Saturday, July 19.

Many well-known pros like Tiger Woods and Phil Mickelson have played in past tournaments, and the event is open to everyone.

Okay 5k

7-11 p.m. — Delaware Park — Registration fees apply — A community-oriented evening 5K run encouraging participants of all levels to join in the fun and camaraderie.

716 CommUNITY Day

3-7 p.m. — MLK Jr. Park — Free entry — Celebrate community with fun activities, live music, and free meals.

Yaadcore Live in Buffalo

8-11:30 p.m. — Nietzsche's — $15 Adv // $20 DoS — Experience the legendary Jamaican singer Yaadcore with his reggae revival hits and unique sound.

Buffalo Subaru 4 Mile Chase - 43rd Annual

7 p.m. — Elmwood Village — Donations welcome — The social running event of the summer returns with local community spirit.

Megan Moroney Concert

6-11 p.m. — Terminal B At The Outer Harbor — Check website for price — Enjoy an evening of music with rising star Megan Moroney.

The Cold Stares with GROSH

8-11 p.m. — The Caz — $19 — Experience the gritty rock of The Cold Stares alongside the electrifying fusion of GROSH in an unforgettable night of music.

Galbani Italian Heritage Festival 50th Anniversary

11 a.m.-9 p.m. — Hertel Avenue, Buffalo, NY — Free admission — Celebrate 50 years of Italian culture with food, entertainment, and community spirit.

Kraw Live Performance

9-11 p.m. — Buffalo Iron Works — $20 — Experience Kraw's high-energy EDM performance that ignites the dance floor.

Teen Night

7 p.m. — El Coquito — Ticket information available — A safe and fun event for teens to vibe and dance without alcohol.

Run Katie Run Concert

7-8:30 p.m. — Buffalo Iron Works — $15 tickets — Experience heartfelt roots-rock fused with country, bluegrass, and pop by powerhouse vocalist Katie Coleman.