Homelessness rates are climbing across the region, new census results from the Homeless Alliance of Western New York show, citing eviction and the loss of a job as main factors. Numbers from the alliance’s 2026 Point-in-Time Count gathered in January reveal a 24 percent increase of people experiencing homelessness across Western New York. Destination Niagara USA has joined communities across the country in celebrating National Travel and Tourism Week this week.A woman who fatally struck an elderly man walking his dog in Buffalo while under the influence of alcohol and drugs in December faces seven years behind bars. Demolition crews have started tearing down the old Highmark Stadium.PokeKon Fest is returning to Niagara Falls this summer, celebrating all things Pokémon for families and collectors. The event is back in town Aug. 16, taking place at the Sheraton Niagara Falls Hotel from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.