Buffalo All Local
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WBEN All Local provides a quick snapshot of the day’s top news stories in Buffalo and greater upstate New York from WBEN.
Episodes
Did Tuesday's gubernatorial debate sway voters one way or the other?
Governor Kathy Hochul and Republican challenger Bruce Blakeman took to the debate stage for the first and only time Tuesday night, three weeks before voters head to the polls. Did either candidate sway voters one way or the other? Jack O'Donnell, Albany insider with O'Donnell & Associates, shares his takeaways from the debate.
Jury selection begins in Tops shooter's death penalty trial
Jury selection is underway in the federal death penalty trial of Tops shooter Payton Gendron. Attorney Terry Connors represents 7 families of victims. He tells us how the process of selecting jurors will play out.
20 years since October storm, Buffalo still growing after "arborgeddon"
20 years ago today a shock storm brought nearly two feet of snow, knocked out power to hundreds of thousands of people, and destroyed or damaged 57,000 trees in WNY. Paul Maurer established ReTree WNY after the storm, which he refers to as "arborgeddon". The nonprofit's work continues today, replacing trees that fell during the storm two decades ago.
Buffalo's JECA Energy Bars among 43North winners
The final 43North Finals is a wrap, and Buffalo's JECA Energy Bars was one of five companies to walk away with a $1 million prize and a chance to grow in Buffalo. Ree Dolnick tells us about her company's origins and what the investment will do for its growth.
Buffalo takes control of Templeton Landing; Senecas respond to Mayor
The City of Buffalo has regained control of a premium piece of waterfront real estate. Also, as tensions ramp up between the city and Senecas, is it possible to get them both to the negotiating table? Fillmore District councilman Mitch Nowakowski joined WBEN Thursday.
Riverside teacher pushes back against BPS plan to close schools
The superintendent of Buffalo Schools is proposing eight schools close, some permanently, others to be repurposed. Teacher Marc Bruno's Riverside High School is one school on that list. He tells WBEN why he thinks the idea is misguided.
Stadium RV lot center of he-said-she-said debate
There's mixed messages coming from Orchard Park about the future of the RV lot near Highmark Stadium. Supervisor Joe Liberti says it's status quo, but camper Shannon Sam tells us otherwise.
Former NY AG Dennis Vacco raising questions about Cornell investigation
Former New York State Attorney General Dennis Vacco is raising serious questions about the investigation into an alleged gang rape at Cornell University in 2024. Vacco joined WBEN on Monday to discuss the case, and said what is most startling to him, as a former prosecutor, is that the District Attorney at the time, or anyone else on his staff, never interviewed the woman who said she was raped.
Bills host reeling Patriots with a chance to take command of AFC East
It's been a shockingly awful start for the reigning AFC Champion New England Patriots, and the Bills have a chance to pile on to their rival's woes Sunday. WGR's Sal Capaccio says Buffalo has to keep New England on the mat and get the win. He has a preview.
Sabres hockey is BACK!
The Sabres begin their defense of last year's Atlantic Division title tonight in Columbus against the Blue Jackets. Sabres gameday host on WGR, Brian Koziol, gets us ready for the season.
New federal rules may impact select college majors
The federal government is set to introduce legislation that would take funding away from college majors if the income of graduates doesn't keep up with those of people who didn't go to college but work in the same field. College planner Jeff Boron tells us about it.
Buffalo's Common Council set to vote on data center moratorium
North District Councilman Joe Golombek is seeking a two-year moratorium on new data center construction in the City of Buffalo. Golombek tells us why the extra year is needed and what his concerns are.
Brady's Bills get first taste of adversity in win over Chargers
It was hard to watch at points, but the Bills ultimately did enough to win Sunday against the LA Chargers. WGR's Sal Capaccio recaps the win that puts the Bills at 3-0.
AOC visits Buffalo and previewing Bills-Chargers
Today Susan is off and Brian discusses what the significance of AOC coming to Buffalo is as well as previewing Sunday's matchup between the Bills and Chargers.
Republican strategist Carl Calabrese weighs in on AOC's visit to Buffalo
Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez is in Buffalo Thursday to meet with Sean Ryan and organize inactive voters. Is there another reason she's here though, beyond what's on her agenda? Republican political strategist Carl Calabrese tells us what he thinks.
Latest polling shows Hochul's lead over Blakeman at 9 points
With six weeks to go until election day, new polling shows Governor Hochul holds a 9 point lead over Republican challenger Bruce Blakeman. Siena Research pollster Steve Greenberg dives deeper into the numbers.
Fall's arrived in WNY. Here's what to expect
It's officially fall in Western New York! Meteorologist Andy Parker tells us when we should expect to see different colors popping up, what the air will feel like, and whether the Pacific El Nino will have any impact on us.
New York urging cooperation between data centers, municipalities
Can data centers be mutually beneficial? A recommendation from New York State believes so. Town of Tonawanda Supervisor John Flynn tells us how Governor Hochul's Community Investment Framework can shape the town's view on data centers.
One of WNY's most popular music festivals is back this weekend
Borderland Festival is back this weekend in East Aurora at Knox Farm State Park. Headliners include Alabama Shakes, Jack White and Lord Huron. Festival co-founder Jen Brazill tells us all about the three day festival.
Sparks might fly as Bills host Lions in high-powered 2024 rematch
The Bills will open up Highmark Stadium Thursday night against the Detroit Lions, a rematch from 2024 when Buffalo and Detroit combined for 90 points in a Bills win. WGR's Sal Capaccio gets us ready for game time.
443 days later, contract talks start between BPD union and city
The Buffalo Police Benevolent Association is beginning contract negotiations with the city after going 443 days without an agreement. PBA President John Davidson joined WBEN to talk about those discussions and why a new deal is needed.
Buffalo sets sights on data center pause
Buffalo Common Council member Joe Golombek is proposing a two-year data center and cryptomining moratorium in the City of Buffalo. That proposal will be in front of city lawmakers Tuesday afternoon. Golombek spoke with Joe Beamer about why the pause is necessary.
Bills pull off win in a Texas shootout
The Bills went to Houston Sunday and left with their first win there in 20 years, 36-31 over the Texans. Bills beat reporter for WGR Sal Capaccio breaks down how the Bills were able to counter one of the league's best defenses to get to 1-0.
Longtime DHS agent recalls experience at Ground Zero on 9/11
When America was attacked on Sept. 11, 2001, Western New Yorkers were among those quick to respond in any way they could. Dr. Steve MacMartin, director of the Hilbert College Cybersecurity program, spent three decades in the Department of Homeland Security. In 2001, he was sent to Ground Zero in Lower Manhattan. He shared what that experience was like with WBEN.
How much of a threat does AI pose to humanity?
After a researcher for Artificial Intelligence company Anthropic publicly shared his concerns about underestimating AI's capabilities, concern and confusion over the future of AI has been spreading fast. To better understand what threats AI poses, we checked in with cybersecurity expert Arun Vishwanath.
Paul Marzello explains opposition to Seneca gas station project
Paul Marzello is one stake holder in Buffalo's Old First Ward that is rallying against a Seneca One Stop gas station being built on Buffalo's waterfront near River Fest Park. He tells us the project goes against plans for the area that were drawn up in 2013.
Local attorney on what happens next in Clancy trial
The trial of accused child killer Lindsay Clancy ended in a mistrial late last week, leaving more questions than answered. What comes next? Local attorney Terry Connors joins WBEN with analysis.
First responders, neighbors spring into action during Buffalo flood
As record rains poured down on Buffalo and surrounding suburbs, first responders and neighbors stepped up to help stranded motorists. Deputy Mayor Ben Swanekamp oversees public works. He filled us in on how Thursday night went and what work is still being done Friday and into the holiday weekend as flood cleanup continues.
Clergy abuse survivors will soon vote on a settlement
About 900 survivors of clergy abuse will soon be receiving ballots to vote on a $326 million dollar settlement. Attorney Steve Boyd tells us there will be a 60-day window for voting and the case could potentially be over by the end of the year. He told us more about the process.
Back to school means renewing your focus on the roads
As kids head back to school, it's important to be hyper-aware of your surroundings on the road. State Trooper James O'Callaghan fills us in on some new laws designed to hold drivers accountable and cut down on potential tragedies as a new school year begins.
Will tariffs drive Canada to China as a trade partner?
A week later, the impact of the renewed trade war between the US and Canada is still coming into focus. We spoke with Toronto Sun columnist Joe Warmington about how the US and Canada can mend fences and whether Canada will look elsewhere for a new trading partner.
Shaking off the back-to-school jitters as a new school year approaches
Back-to-school jitters are normal for this time of year. Vice Chair of Psychiatry at UB, Dr. Michael Cummings, has tips for helping your kid manage their anxiety as another school year begins.
It's Wing Fest weekend in Buffalo!
The 25th Anniversary of the National Buffalo Wing Festival takes over Sahlen Field this weekend! "The Wing King" Drew Cerza tells us what's new as wing makers from across the country come to town.
One last tuneup for the Bills before the real thing
Thursday night will give the Bills' reserves and roster bubble players one last shot to show what they have before roster cut down day Sunday. WGR's Sal Capaccio tells us what to watch for as the Bills play one more game before the real thing in 17 days.
Local builders ready for whatever tariffs may bring
Phil Nanula is President & CEO at Essex Homes and President of the Buffalo-Niagara Builders Association. As tariffs target lumber and other building materials, Nanula tells us how his business and construction suppliers are preparing for whatever cost increases may come.
Instant reaction to President Trump's "Lake America" threat
President Trump Tuesday morning posted to Truth Social that the US is considering renaming Lake Ontario "Lake America." We spoke with State Senator Rob Ortt, whose district includes the Lake Ontario shoreline in Niagara County, and Niagara Falls, ON Mayor Jim Diodati about the latest escalation in the trade war.
Expect to pay more (again) when open enrollment begins
You'll be paying more (again) this year if you get your insurance through work. Dan LaBroad, CEO of Ovation Health and Life Services, breaks down the numbers for us and explains why costs are constantly going up.
Danny Neaverth remembers life and career of the legendary Sandy Beach
Radio icon Sandy Beach has passed away at 86. Longtime friend and fellow hall of fame broadcaster Danny Neaverth shares memories of Sandy, from his unmatched sense of humor to his magnetic personality.
City of North Tonawanda says no to Flock cameras
A year after voting to allow Flock cameras to be posted throughout the City of North Tonawanda, the City Council has voted to get rid of the lone camera in the city and pause plans for any more throughout the city. Mayor Austin Tylec tells us what led to the reversal.
Hamburg's supervisor shares what she knows about southtowns radiation testing
Radiation testing has expanded to the southtowns. Is it anything to be concerned about? Beth Farrell Lorentz tells us what she has heard from the EPA and DEC, and what those agencies are looking for.
There's plenty to see at the Fair's Agriculture Discovery Center
No matter the day, the Erie County Fair's Agriculture Discovery Center is one of the top spots to visit. Barry Flansburg from the Ag Center tells us about the exciting entertainment you can check out everyday at the building.
Love food? Today's the day to get to the Fair!
Monday is Taste of the Fair! More than 125 vendors will have samples for $3, allowing you to have some of your favorites while trying something new without paying full price. Fair concessions manager Paula Struble tells us what's on the menu.
Transparency at center of North Aud Block tax break debate
Developer and former congressman Chris Jacobs is one vocal critic of a 30-year tax break New York State is giving to developers of the North Aud Block. Jacobs believes transparency is the heart of the issue. He tells WBEN what the state should have done instead.
Understanding new 6% surcharge at Highmark Stadium
A new 6% surcharge is being applied to all purchases at Highmark Stadium. The money from the tax will go toward a fund for future stadium improvements. Erie County Comptroller Kevin Hardwick tells WBEN Erie County taxpayers are getting a better deal now as only stadium-goers will have to pay for those improvements.
Hochul's lead on Blakeman shrinks in poll of likely voters
A new Siena poll of likely voters shows Republican Bruce Blakeman is gaining ground on Governor Kathy Hochul ahead of November's gubernatorial election. Hochul's lead has fallen to 10 points from 20 in June. Siena pollster Steve Greenberg has more on the numbers.
Retired BPD Captain talks good and bad of Flock cameras
Flock cameras are gaining more scrutiny nationwide and here in Western New York. What are they and what's their purpose? Are they being used correctly? Retired BPD Captain Jeff Rinaldo breaks down the controversial surveillance system's intended purpose, and whether the information it gathers can be used for nefarious means.
The reviews of Highmark Stadium are in
How are fans feeling after seeing Highmark Stadium for the first time Saturday night? We're hearing reaction from people who were at the practice, including WBEN's Lucas Buckley.
Excitement around the Blue and Red scrimmage at new Highmark Stadium
Today Lucas and Tom fill in for Susan and Brian to get a preview of what's inside the new Highmark Stadium and what fans should expect if they are going to the Blue and Red scrimmage.
Buffalo School Board members voice their frustrations
Tom Puckett and Lucas Buckley fill in for Susan and Brian on August 6th to discuss the Buffalo School system and what their board members are voicing their frustrations about
Bills getting "Moore" than expected from new wide receiver
The Bills have two practices left at St. John Fisher University, and new wide receiver DJ Moore is showing exactly why the Bills paid a premium to acquire him. WGR's Sal Capaccio tells us more about training camp so far and what's coming to Highmark Stadium aside from football games.