Good morning, Buffalo.

Thirty-five women veterans from Western New York are set to take the first all-female Buffalo Niagara Honor Flight to Washington D.C. this weekend—departing Saturday morning and arriving for a public welcome at Buffalo Airport on Sunday at 8:30 p.m.

Former Buffalo Place Inc. chairman Keith Belanger, who served for 27 years, said he is proud of downtown Buffalo’s progress but added that challenges like empty storefronts and commuter issues still need fixing.

He noted restored vehicular traffic and rising apartment development as clear signs of change—new leadership by architect Steve Carmina is expected to guide further improvements.

Community advocates are filing an appeal against the city, saying officials have not enforced the proactive rental inspection law for vacant and non-owner occupied properties—this neglect has resulted in unsafe rentals and has been linked to more than 1,200 cases of high lead levels in city children between 2021 and 2023. They argue that proper enforcement will protect renters from hazardous living conditions.

Santora's Pizza Pub and Grill closed its Walden Galleria location on Oct.

5 after five years in business—owner Paul Santora said he did not renew the lease due to mall constraints and personal reasons, while the Transit Road location remains open.

The 43North Semi-Finals at Seneca One in Buffalo are one week away as sixteen startup companies will pitch and eight advance to finals at Shea for a chance at $1 million in investments.

Costco has filed for a liquor license for its future Amherst location at 4230 Ridge Lea Road and KeyBank will bring back its Mobile ATMs for treats at the Sabres’ Party in the Plaza before tomorrow's home opener.

Niagara Falls Border Patrol agent Brady Waikel said illegal border crossings in the Buffalo sector dropped from roughly 7,000 daily to about 200 while more than 1,300 arrests have been made so far this fiscal year — about 750 in the Buffalo-Niagara region.

After reviewing four redistricting options, Superintendent Lisa Krueger recommended an elementary-based plan that keeps East and West School boundaries and affects fewer students for next September.

A three-week public comment period began Wednesday—giving parents time to give feedback—while the Board of Education will vote on the plan on November 18.

Phase one of the $100 million East Delavan Sewer Improvement Project is complete and upgraded sewage systems to reduce overflows on city streets.

The work—aimed at protecting public health and improving local waterways—is part of the Queen City Clean Waters Initiative.

Buffalo restaurants are joining Dining Out for Life to donate 25% or more of food and drink purchases to Evergreen Health— the largest annual HIV fundraiser in the region.

Thirty restaurants are participating and the event has raised more than $1.5 million since 2003 to support medical and support services for people living with HIV.

McGuire Development Co. bought the historic 10-story Dun Building from Paul Kolkmeyer's Priam Enterprises for $1.85 million last Friday and plans to convert the building into apartments.

Bills began installing natural grass sod at the new Highmark Stadium along Abbott Road in Orchard Park, and crews installed red and blue seats in a gradient pattern in the lower bowl—preparing the facility for its July opening.

Construction had previously included the installation of a warming system below the field.

Delaware North is launching a new menu for the upcoming 2025-2026 season at KeyBank Center—offering items like a two-foot chicken parmesan sandwich, specialty flavored pretzels, and an exclusive cream ale.

Executive chef Michael Buonopane said these upgrades add bold flavors and playful twists to enhance the fan experience.

Buffalo defeated Eastern Michigan 31—30 in overtime on homecoming at UB Stadium after a tied game at 21 set up a game-winning 50—yard field goal by Jack Howes and a nine—yard touchdown run by Victor Snow.

The Bulls will play UMass in Amherst on October 18 as they look to build further momentum.

Lee Ritenour Concert

8-9:30 p.m. — Buffalo State Performing Arts Center — $40 – $45 — Experience the smooth sounds of jazz legend Lee Ritenour as he showcases his illustrious 50-year career.

Paul Oakenfold & The Crystal Method Reunion

7-9:30 p.m. — Electric City — Ticketed event — Experience a legendary reunion of electronic music pioneers Paul Oakenfold and The Crystal Method in a celebration of epic sound and rhythm.

Lawrence Concert

8:00 – 9:30 PM — Buffalo RiverWorks — Tickets from $31 — Enjoy a lively performance by Lawrence at this local venue.

Buffalo Sabres vs. Colorado Avalanche

12:30-2:00 p.m. — KeyBank Center — Tickets required — Catch an exciting NHL matchup as the Sabres take on the Avalanche.

Kathleen Edwards Concert

8-11 p.m. — Asbury Hall - Buffalo — Tickets range from $13 to $69 — Experience the unique sounds of Kathleen Edwards in a vibrant concert setting.

Jake Miller Concert

7:00 – 9:30 PM — Buffalo Iron Works — Tickets from $57 — Experience an electrifying performance by Jake Miller at Buffalo Iron Works.

Mumford & Sons - 2025 Tour

7-9 p.m. — Buffalo Iron Works — Guaranteed tickets available — The indie giants return with their highly anticipated new album, Rushmere, marking their first tour in seven years.

Peace Frog: A Tribute to The Doors

8-9:30 p.m. — Electric City — Ticket prices vary — Experience the captivating tribute to Jim Morrison and The Doors in a mystical rock theater atmosphere.

The Thorn Performance

1-2:30 p.m. — Shea's Buffalo Theatre — Ticketed event — Experience a live dramatic portrayal of the Passion of Jesus.

Martin House Plus Tour

1-4 p.m. — Frank Lloyd Wright's Martin House — Ticketed event — Explore the architectural beauty of the Martin House with a guided tour.