The News, Eats & Events Shaping Western New York

Buffalo Bills fans can now claim a piece of Highmark Stadium history as Erie County partners with CollectibleXchange to offer authentic stadium memorabilia.

With demolition ahead, cherished items like stadium seats, turf, goalposts, even lockers and lights, are up for grabs to commemorate unforgettable moments.

Season Ticket Members enjoy special access, including a discount to purchase their own seat locations, ensuring a personalized memento from a beloved venue.

To streamline collection, local “pickup parties” will be hosted at spots like Wegmans and Dave and Adam’s, keeping costs down and the spirit festive.

Fifty percent of all sales will be reinvested into Erie County, supporting community projects and local growth.

This initiative lets fans hold onto the legacy of Highmark Stadium, keeping treasured memories alive as the Bills move into a new era.

Five innovative startups have launched in Buffalo, joining the 11th cohort of 43North and each receiving a $1 million investment.

RadEmploy, founded by Joel Horsford in New York City, is tackling radiology staffing shortages using a conversational AI platform to connect imaging professionals with large hospital systems.

Floe, from New Haven, is introducing smart rooftop ice and snow management systems.

CEO David Delall plans to move manufacturing to Buffalo, drawn by the city’s challenging winters.

Other cohort members include: Cellsense, producing compostable beads from algae and cellulose to fight microplastics; Cosi Care, offering instant itch relief devices for eczema; and Tukki.ai, an AI-powered immigration platform.

43North’s investments have generated over 3,000 jobs globally and helped solidify Buffalo’s reputation as a thriving hub for startups.

O'Connell’s Clothing, a cherished fixture in Buffalo’s University District, has earned national acclaim as one of America’s top 50 clothing stores.

Established in 1959 by former Buffalo Bills players Tommy O’Connell, Richie Lucas, and Don Chelf, the shop grew from a humble 800-square-foot storefront into a thriving 10,000-square-foot destination.

Now under the stewardship of Bernhard “Bernie” Huber and his sons John and Ethan, this family-run store upholds a legacy of quality craftsmanship and personal service.

Best known for its tailored menswear, O’Connell’s showcases classic suits, sport coats, and trousers—many still made in the United States, Canada, and the United Kingdom.

National recognition has brought fresh attention and new customers, but the Huber family remains committed to timeless style and enduring quality.

For locals seeking tradition and excellence, O’Connell’s Clothing remains a Buffalo icon.

Turning Cold Days into Warm Connections

• Soup, Chili, or Casserole Potlucks
  Easy winter food themes that encourage sharing recipes and stories.

• Local History Talks
  Invite longtime residents to share Buffalo/WNY winter stories and traditions.

• Poetry Readings or Open Mics
  Warm, intimate events that work well in winter.

• Skill Swap Nights
  Neighbors teach each other things like budgeting, cooking, repairs, or resumes.

• “Pet of the Week” Community Board
  Highlight adoptable pets at libraries or online neighborhood pages.

• Winter Festivals or Cabin Fever Days
  Indoor games, music, crafts, and food to beat the winter blues.

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