Buffalo News Live

The News' Brian Meyer sat down with host Eileen Buckley as part of today's Press Pass segment on WBFO. Among the topics discussed were new Buffalo School Superintendent Pamela Brown and civil rights issues with local NAACP president Frank Mesiah:

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Defense and prosecution give closing arguments in trial of Ali-Mohamed Mohamud who was later convicted of second-degree murder for beating to death his 10-year-old stepson.

Testimony at the murder trial of Ali-Mohamed Mohamud today revealed the family of the accused had not seen him violent before.

Here's the opening statement from defense attorney Lana V. Tupchik:

Here is most of prosecutor John Feroleto’s opening statement:

As court officers keep watch, Ali-Mohamed Mohamud sits between defense attorneys Lana V. Tupchik, left, and Kevin Spitler as his trial for the murder of his 10-year-old stepson last April begins Monday. (Derek Gee/Buffalo News)

Staff Reporter Patrick Lakamp, on the opening statements in the Ali-Mohamed Mohamud murder trial, via Twitter (@LakampBuffNews):

Opening statements in Ali-Mohamed Mohamud trial completed. "This defendant brutally murdered a 10-year-old boy," prosecutor tells jurors.

Prosecutor John Feroleto says the stepfather stabbed, gagged, bound and beat Abdifatah Mohamud and later confessed to police.

Ali-Mohamed Mohamud told police where to find sock he put in stepson's mouth, tape, electrical cord, rolling pin and his bloody clothes.

Defense lawyer Lana V. Tupchik doesn't mention the child victim during her opening statement. "Mr. Mohamud denies this accusation."

Testimony in Mohamud trial: Mother and step-brother of brutalized boy say they never saw stepfather act violently toward child before.

Neighbor testifies Mohamud looked "upset and tired" as he and his stepson went inside home before fatal beating but never raised his voice.

Extreme athlete Felix Baumgartner will attempt to break the sound barrier in a free fall from 23 miles above Earth.

Watch it here: http://www.youtube.com/redbull

Here's the AP's story.

On Saturday, the War of 1812's Bombardment of Queenston Heights was re-enacted. (Read Jane Kwiatkowski's story here.)

Chief Photographer Derek Gee's video captures two 5 1/2-inch Howitzer cannons firing during a reenactment of the artillery bombardment of Queenston on Oct. 13, 1812. American artillery fired at Queenston from this location during the Americans' ill-fated invasion of Queenston, which was the first major battle of the War of 1812.

These Howitzers would have fired a 24-pound fused projectile that would explode when detonated. These particular cannons are part of the arsenal from Fort Meigs in Perrysburg, Ohio, and are operated by their regiment of reenactors.

Two fundraisers are being held this weekend to support Erin’s Crossings, a charity created to pay for the installation of crosswalks and special signage for every playground that needs them.

Domestic violence court judge asserts court's authority

Erie County DA calls domestic violence court a 'failed experiement'