Petal It Forward brought an unexpected burst of color to Buffalo commuters Wednesday morning, along with a chance to brighten someone else’s day.

Maureen’s Wholesale Flower Market handed out 200 bouquets as part of the nationwide kindness campaign.

Each recipient got two: one to keep and one to pass to a friend, neighbor, coworker or stranger.

The flowers went quickly, with about half gone in the first 30 minutes.

One recipient said the gift arrived during a difficult day, while others returned after enjoying last year’s giveaway.

The campaign began in 2015, and the Buffalo florist has participated for roughly three years.

For the City of Good Neighbors, the second bouquet carries the heart of the idea: a small act of care that keeps moving.

The florist hopes to return next year and see other flower shops join in.

Buffalo’s food scene is getting a stronger voice in the James Beard Awards conversation.

A committee assembled by Visit Buffalo has recommended nine local chefs, bakers and businesses for consideration, spotlighting talent across Buffalo and Erie County.

These are local recommendations, not official James Beard nominations.

For Best Chef: New York State, the committee selected Bruce Wieszala of Beacon Grille, Jennifer Boye of Moriarty Meats & Cafe, and Ryan Fernandez of Southern Junction.

Its emerging chef picks are Manny Ocasio of Mira and Darian Bryan of Bratts Hill and Reserve.

Jenn Batt of Quokka Sweets, Gina Ocasio of Mira, Kevin and Melissa Gardner of Five Points Bakery, and Colleen Stillwell of Butter Block round out the recommendations.

National recognition is not guaranteed, but the list gives Buffalo’s independent kitchens and bakeries a welcome moment of visibility—and residents a reason to explore them.

Guy Fieri is expected in Buffalo on Monday, November 2, for an evening meet-and-greet at Tinder Box Buffalo.

The event will spotlight Knuckle Sandwich cigars, Fieri’s line made with Espinosa Cigars, with special pricing expected for adults interested in the product.

For local fans, the visit is also a chance to connect with a familiar champion of Buffalo-area restaurants.

Fieri has featured Western New York kitchens on Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives, introducing their food to viewers far beyond the region.

Anyone who meets him might have a favorite meal to discuss or a neighborhood spot to recommend for his next visit.

An arrival time has not been confirmed, so check the event schedule before heading out.