The News, Eats & Events Shaping Western New York

New York State is boosting college access by waiving application fees at nearly 130 institutions this October.

Governor Kathy Hochul emphasized that both public and private colleges are on board, aiming to ease financial hurdles for students across the state.

SUNY schools will offer free applications from October 20 to November 3, letting students apply to up to five campuses at no cost.

CUNY is also dropping fees: New York City high schoolers get free applications October 27 through November 21, and students outside the city from November 10 to November 21.

Many private colleges statewide are joining the effort with their own waiver periods throughout the month.

Students should confirm dates and details with each institution to make the most of these opportunities.

This initiative encourages students to pursue higher education without worrying about initial application expenses.

The League of Women Voters of Buffalo Niagara is energizing the local election season with a series of Meet the Candidates forums.

The Orchard Park supervisor and council candidates will address the public on Monday, October 20, at 7 p.m. inside the Orchard Park Community Center.

Later, on Thursday, October 23, residents can meet Amherst’s supervisor candidates at 6 p.m. at UB’s North Campus Student Union Theater.

Both events are free, open to all, and welcome voters eager to hear directly from Board of Elections–certified candidates.

Additionally, the League recently co-sponsored an October 16 forum spotlighting the Amherst Town Council and Erie County Comptroller races.

Early voting opens October 25 and continues through November 2, ahead of Election Day on November 4.

These forums help empower the community by fostering direct dialogue and more informed decisions at the polls.

Western New York is gearing up for its first major snowfall, expected to arrive a bit later than usual in early November.

The Old Farmer’s Almanac predicts the season’s opening snow will fall during the week of November 10, closely matching past years’ trends. Residents can anticipate this familiar wintry kickoff.

Snow is forecast to linger for about a week before temperatures climb after Thanksgiving, giving winter lovers a short window to enjoy the fresh powder. This early burst offers a taste of winter sports before milder conditions return.

November’s weather will be seasonable, with average temperatures near 41°F and below-average precipitation.

Looking further ahead, the NOAA signals a milder and wetter winter for 2025-26 due to a projected La Niña, possibly leading to less lake-effect snow. This could make winter more manageable for some, but a letdown for snow sport enthusiasts.

Stay prepared for whatever winter brings to Western New York.

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