Good morning, Buffalo.

Doug Flutie returned to Orchard Park on Friday to relaunch Flutie Flakes, a limited-edition cereal supporting autism programs through his foundation, with sales at select local stores and online; he toured the new Highmark Stadium (ahead of his Bills Legend of the Game appearance on Sunday) and met local fans.

A Goodyear Tire chemical plant in Niagara Falls that faced emissions issues will close this year following shareholder approval on Sept.

29, leading to a reduction of (85) jobs as the company shifts focus after selling most of its chemical business in 2025.

Italian Heritage Month began in Buffalo on Friday when Italian Americans gathered at Niagara Square to raise flags that represent Italy’s 20 regions.

The event sparked celebrations, and a federation gala is scheduled for Oct. 17 with an Italian Heritage Parade on Oct. 18 along Hertel Avenue.

Buffalo Naval Park director of creative events Stephen Czortyka said Nightmare Wharf opened Friday, Oct.

2 + local visitors began exploring the new event venue.

National Grid is investing $32 million in the Perry Street substation to boost voltage from 4,160 to 13,200 volts for Larkinville and the First Ward.

The multi-year upgrade will support growing electricity demand — a critical step for the city's energy needs — and future development in Buffalo.

A recent report shows tourism supports 35,700 jobs and generates $1.3 billion in personal income across the Greater Niagara region, making up about 6% of local jobs.

Buffalo Public Schools plans to close eight schools in the 2027-2028 school year and cut 108 positions to save $24 million a year.

The proposal, driven by declining enrollment and rising costs, will affect 2,300 students and includes meetings (Oct. 8, Oct. 15, and Oct. 20) for public feedback.

Niagara Falls residents filed an administrative petition on Oct.

2 for full chemical testing at Love Canal and nearby public spaces. State environmental officials have been directed to gather data and consider remediation measures — a relocation request by one family is also included.

The DL&W Sky Deck, a 55,000 sqft outdoor space (capacity: over 2,000 people) at the renovated waterfront terminal, opens today.

It will host a free grand opening Rooftop Rally from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. ahead of the Sabres game next door.

The Bills will host a reeling Patriots team on Sunday at Orchard Park + WGR’s Sal Capaccio previews the game and lineup for fans.