Branching out

Buffalo.com photo by Don Nieman.

Right now, we are recruiting college students to serve as campus interns - on-the-scene reporters and photographers who will essentially cover the doings at their schools. We want to attract a college-aged audience, and figure this is one way to get them - by offering something that they aren't necessarily getting anywhere else.

We also are not actively recruiting new community contributors. We want to retain and continue working with the people who are in the program, but we're not advertising for new people at the moment. We are pleased with you - the current group - and want to keep you all active, motivated, and involved in the MyBuffalo experience.

You have probably noticed that we're doing more stuff like video and podcasts. I want you to know that you - our talented contributors - are absolutely welcome to get involved in the action. If you have an idea for a podcast, or a video series, or anything along those lines, just talk to me or Deanna - we would love to take a good idea and turn it into a series at the MyBuffalo site. If you have a particular interest, or have always felt like you could host your own show, or simply want to try something new, we are here to help make that a reality.

Writers, you can try your hand at photography.

Photographers, you can try writing stories (as Darleen successfully did yesterday - nice job, Dar).

Anyone can record and post their own podcast. Anyone can pitch an idea for a video series. We will help with the technical end if we think it's feasible.

This is my invitation to you to consider branching out. We have this neat little toy called MyBuffalo...feel free to use it to it's full capacity.

"Say Cheese," win cash and acclaim

Buffalo.com photo by Jeff Noto.

Photographers - you probably have more "smile for the camera" shots than anyone else in Western New York...this contest is right up your alley. Thanks to Darleen for sharing this!

Let the world see Buffalo through your eyes by capturing the city’s people, places and things with your camera and submitting them to the “Say Cheese, Buffalo!” photo contest.

The contest was created by the Buffalo Niagara Convention & Visitors Bureau to capture the essence and beautiful sights of the Buffalo Niagara region. If you love Buffalo and like taking pictures, then this is the contest for you.

“We are always looking for fresh images to sell Buffalo to the world. Who better to help us than our own residents? By recruiting local ambassadors we are actively getting them involved in helping market Buffalo with their creative images,” said Drew Cerza, interim president of the Buffalo Niagara Convention & Visitors Bureau.

“Say Cheese, Buffalo!” is open to photographers of all ages. It’s is an on-going contest that has four periods of entry that correlate with the change of season. Each of the four periods will have a 1st place $100 prize that will be given to the photographer who can best capture the beauty of the Buffalo Niagara region.

Each photo submitted has the chance to be used in various CVB publications and on its website, to promote the area as a fun and exciting place for out-of-town visitors and locals. Judging will take place shortly after the ending date of each contest period.

Contest dates run from July 1, 2009 – September 30, 2009 (summer), October 1, 2009 – December 31, 2009 (autumn), January 1, 2010 – March 31, 2010 (winter) and April 1, 2010 – June 30, 2010 (spring).

Dust off your tripods and use your imagination to help capture the beauty of the region to let others know how wonderful the Buffalo Niagara area is. For more information about the contest visit www.visitbuffaloniagara.com and look for the “Say Cheese, Buffalo!” logo.

Buffalo.com Podcast: The Mark Valentino (Hit-N-Run) Interview

Buffalo.com photo by Dan Ruggiero.

Our first "official" Buffalo.com podcast - our guest is Mark Valentino of the popular party band Hit-N-Run. The tightest 20 minutes in broadcasting, people! Check it out if you have some time.

Special thanks to Mark, a real Buffalo.com supporter (just ask Dan Ruggiero) and a genuinely good guy.

A little free publicity for a local artist

This guy is a buddy of my old boss. If you want to go to this exhibit to take photos or write a story, that is great - but maybe you just want to check it out as a civilian. It looks pretty interesting.

I am setting up an exhibit of my artwork (mostly Buffalo items, Frank Lloyd Wright, grain elevator, fireboat, etc.) August 1 at Buffalo Niagara Convention & Visitors Bureau in the Market Arcade, 617 Main St.

The exhibit will run through the month of August. I will be there August 1 between 10 am and at least 1:oo pm, primarily to make sure everything is properly displayed.

If you can't be there (I'd like to visit again) try to drop in sometime during the month and let me know what you think about it, good or bad.

Karl E. Kipp

MyBuffalo Message Boards

Buffalo.com photo by Joseph Moran.

Maybe you haven't been able to take many photos lately. If you're a writer, maybe you haven't had a ton of time to get out and write stories. Hey, it happens - we're all busy. At the same time, you would like to remain active in MyBuffalo.

Here's a great way to get involved - the message boards.

We are always looking for smart and interesting people to share their opinions on our message boards. And frankly, I know you are smart and opinionated, because I've talked to you before.

Got something on your mind? An issue you want to discuss? A point you want to debate? A funny story you want to share? Post to the MyBuffalo message boards.

I should add that starting a discussion also earns you 50 MyBuffalo points...and you are eligible to be a Rack 'Em Up winner, so starting a discussion can help you win prizes, too.

Notes & Events for July 28 - Aug. 2

Buffalo.com photo by Ray Milkowski.

How's it going this week? Good, I hope. Everything is OK here in Buffalo.com Land. We continue to negotiate our way through the new MyBuffalo site and some of the pitfalls - this past week it's been passwords and registration confirmation emails. Good times. We keeping trying to squash these bugs as they pop up...be sure to let me or Deanna know any time you have an issue.

A couple notes:

• Bulk uploader is coming ("whatever," I can hear you saying). Our vendor, KickApps, is supposed to release the code that will let us put the Sets tool right in there shortly. Then - quick uploads...automatic set-making...easy to find galleries...it will be like the old days. The Old Days!
  
  
• We're getting some bang-up photo work from a lot of people lately - nice work, gang. Also, we've seen a bit of a renaissance in the article department - let's keep those stories coming! I know summer is a busy time for everyone, but if you see events that look good to you...let me know. We'll get you booked.
  

Lots of good stuff on the list this week! Music, football, stuff at the Central Terminal and the Zoo...even modern dance. Great photo and story opportunities. We'd love to get you out there! I'll be picking up a couple myself...maybe I'll see some of you out there "in the field," so to speak.

I haven't heard from some folks in a while, by the way - let me know you're still alive! Even if you are busy, we consider you part of the team, and want to make sure you're doing OK out there.

Anyhow, if you ever have any questions, please let me know.

Events:

· UB on the Green: Neville Francis & The Riddim Posse. Buffalo’s favorite reggae artist takes the stage at UB’s South Campus for a relaxed concert on the lawn. 6 PM, UB South Campus (front of Hayes Hall), Main Street, Buffalo.

Wednesday

· 34th Kensington Lions All-Star Football Classic. Some of the top high school football players in Western New York take the field in this traditional preseason football showdown between North and South. 7 PM, North Tonawanda High School Stadium, 405 Meadow Drive, North Tonawanda.

· Wines in the Wild. A great night at the Zoo – this event is already sold out! Live music and visits from some of your favorite animal ambassadors will highlight the event. Enjoy a balmy summer evening in one of the most unique environments around. 6 PM to 9 PM, Buffalo Zoo, Buffalo.

· Wednesdays at the Gorge: The Trews. The Trews' reputation is built on buffed and visceral rock songs. And the group's musical breakthrough has certainly been noticed by others, including shock rock legend Alice Cooper, who christened The Trews "A great young band with a Zeppelin feel." 6:30 PM, Artpark, 450 South 4th St., Lewiston.

Thursday

· Thursday at the Square: Avett Brothers. The last TATS show of the summer! The Avett Brothers are a folk-rock band from North Carolina, who blend bluegrass, old-time country, punk, pop, folk, rock n’ roll and ragtime to create a sound that is all their own. And while only two musicians in the trio are actually brothers – you wouldn’t notice after attending one of their intense and passionate shows. 6 PM, Lafayette Square, Buffalo.

· Rise Against & Rancid. A punk rock extravaganza! One of the hottest young bands in the land (Rise Against) teams up with one of the most popular punk groups of the 1990s (Rancid) as part of this colorful and LOUD tour. 7 PM, The Agri-Center at the Fairgrounds, Erie County Fairgrounds, 5820 South Park Ave., Hamburg.

· Patty Silver Sings! Variety Show. How fun is this? A variety show with talented local entertainers like Patty Silver, Quincy G., Cori, and Johnny. Apparently there is a free pizza and chicken wing buffet, too…not a shabby perk. 7 PM, Desi’s South, 3036 Seneca St., West Seneca.


Friday

· Molson Canal Concert Series: Queensryche. The award-winning progressive metalheads from the 1980s and 1990s are back! Queensryche provided some of the top heavy hits of the era, and now the band is back on the road – and paying a visit to the Lock City. 6 PM, Ulrich City Centre, 2 Main St., Lockport.

· Buffalo Bisons Baseball: v. Pawtucket. A fridaynightbash! celebration with live music and fireworks, and a visit from the powerful affiliate of the Boston Red Sox make this a special night at the ballpark. 7:30 PM, Coca-Cola Field, Buffalo.

· Cursive. The popular and influential indie rockers from Omaha, Neb. rock out in the heart of downtown Buffalo. Rolling Stone writes, ‘“Where other indie-rock lover boys are content to play cute, he asks questions, makes demands, promises impossibilities, exploring the ugly places in the heart. But that’s why he’s an original, testifying about love with the conviction of a young indie Springsteen.” 8 PM, The Tralf Music Hall, 622 Main St., Buffalo.

· BPO SummerFest: Video Games Live! Video Games Live is a complete celebration and multimedia concert experience featuring music from the most popular video games of all time. Video Games Live features a pre and post show festival celebrating the exciting world of video games! 8 PM, Artpark, 450 South 4th St., Lewiston.


Saturday

· The Little Italy Niagara Italian Festival 2009. Good ingredients and good neighbors make good meals, and good times. Tradition trumps adversity, yes the Pine Avenue Little Italy Niagara Italian Festival festival is in full swing despite a rocky start. Many people have gotten on board to bring this wonderful Niagara Falls tradition back for another year. 10 AM to 11 PM, Pine Avenue, Niagara Falls.

· Blues Brews and BBQ @ The Central Terminal. The name says it all – live blues by local favorites like Jony James and 12-Pack Jack, beer from local microbrewer Flying Bison, and BBQ from 4 Aces and Gran Gran’s at one of the most interesting venues in the city. 3:30 PM to 11 PM

· Buffalo Place Rocks the Harbor: Bruce Hornsby and the Noisemakers with Martin Sexton and Samantha Stollenwerck. The far-out pianist who has recorded big Billboard hits – think “Watertown” and “That’s Just The Way It Is” – and jammed with bands as diverse as The Grateful Dead brings his stunning live show to the waterfront. Gates open at 5 PM, Erie Canal Harbor, Buffalo.

· Buffalo Dance Festival. The inaugural festival will feature LehrerDance and Configuration Dance Theatre. These two professional, Buffalo based dance companies will join forces to create an exciting and dynamic performance. 8 PM, UB center for the Arts, UB North Campus, Amherst.

Sunday

· The Little Italy Niagara Italian Festival 2009. Good ingredients and good neighbors make good meals, and good times. Tradition trumps adversity, yes the Pine Avenue Little Italy Niagara Italian Festival festival is in full swing despite a rocky start. Many people have gotten on board to bring this wonderful Niagara Falls tradition back for another year. 10 AM to 9 PM, Pine Avenue, Niagara Falls.

· Draizefest Benefit Concert. Over a dozen local bands perform, including well-know up-and-comers like Cry The Union Forever, Standard of Living, Kindergarten Crush, and many more, in support of a sick local youth. Show begins in the early afternoon and runs all day long. 2 PM, Stephen Sikora Post, 950 Payne Ave., North Tonawanda.

· Pine Grill Jazz Reunion. One of Buffalo’s most popular annual jazz celebrations, the Pine Grill Jazz Reunion draws together hundreds of fans and the best local jazz artists in WNY. 4 Pm to 10 PM, African-American Cultural Center, Martin Luther King Park, Humboldt Parkway, Buffalo.

· Buffalo Place Rocks the Harbor: Govt. Mule and Ben Kweller. A Buffalo favorite! The Allman Brothers are big in Western New York, and Allman guitarist Warren Haynes’ side project, Govt. Mule, always draws a big crowd in the Queen City, Check it out! Gates open at 5 PM, Erie Canal Harbor, Buffalo.

Interested?

Hey all,

We are still looking for photographers and writers to head out to Canal Fest in the Tonawandas this week/weekend. There's something fun scheduled each day at this annual event. I'm sure the crowds will pour the area on Saturday & Sunday.

We could also use another photographer or two at Thursday at the Square tomorrow. Just a couple more weeks to see the crowds gather in Lafayette Square...if you haven't yet experienced the fun that is TATS, come and join us! Neko Case is the headliner, and I'm sure it'll be a great show.

If you'd like to join us to take photos or write an article at either event, please let me or Ben know.

Thanks!

Deanna

The List: 7/21/09

Tuesday 7/21:

• Canal Fest of the Tonawandas: Entertainment, games, rides and food. It’s the largest event held anywhere along the New York State canal system. Highlights include The "Charles Fleishman" Canal Fest Parade at 6:30pm that starts at the corner of Main & Minerva Sts. In Tonawanda and ends at Webster & Goundry Sts. In NT. Also a performance by Black Widow at 8pm at the Gateway Stage at Sweeney Street.

Wednesday 7/22:

• Canal Fest of the Tonawandas: Entertainment, games, rides and food. It’s the largest event held anywhere along the New York State canal system. Highlights include the 11th Annual Car Cruise at 6pm.

Thursday 7/23:

• TATS featuring Neko Case w/ special guest Jason Lytle: Join Buffalo.com photographers and videographers, and our trivia princess Gabrielle for another fun night at Lafayette Square. Case is an alternative country singer-songwriter, best known for her music with The New Pornographers. It’s sure to be a great show…and if it’s anything like last week – thousands of people will be joining us!
• Canal Fest of the Tonawandas: Entertainment, games, rides and food. The largest event held anywhere along the New York State canal system. Highlights include the Diaper Derby at 6pm. There are sure to be lots of cute kids in attendance. The 23rd Annual "Tim Frank Memorial" 4 mile run gets underway at 7pm.

Friday 7/24:

• Canal Fest of the Tonawandas: Entertainment, games, rides and food. The largest event held anywhere along the New York State canal system. Highlights include a bike cruise at 6pm on Webster Street, a live performance of Irish dancers at 7pm, plus a concert featuring Backbeat 64 (Beatles cover band) at Tonawanda Gateway Park at 7pm.

Saturday 7/25:

• The 19th Annual Dash-n-Splash Family Fun Run: 2.5 mile run/walk starting at Frontier Middle School and finishing at the Hamburg Town Park Beach, proceeds from the race will go toward the Hamburg Youth Sports Partnership, 9am
• Pirate Festival, chicken dinners, games, pirate crafts, pirate zoo, Thieves’ Market, best looking pirate contest, treasure hunts, Evangola State Park, Irving, 11am, pirate ship contest at 1pm
• Canal Fest of the Tonawandas: Entertainment, games, rides and food. The largest event held anywhere along the New York State canal system. Lots of stuff scheduled including a “3 on 3” basketball tournament at 9am and boat races at 6pm.
• 4th Annual Classic & Custom Car Show: The CTRC and Lakeside Classic Cruisers in conjunction with the East Side Car Club are co-hosting the event. Central Terminal, Buffalo 12-6pm
• Niagara Wine Trail USA Wine and Culinary Festival at Artpark: The 1st Annual Wine and Culinary Festival will feature wine tasting from the Niagara Wine Trail USA wineries, cuisine from local restaurants, and jazz music before each BPO SummerFest concert (tonight’s show: Opera’s Greatest Hits), 450 South 4th St. Lewiston, 12-8pm

Sunday 7/26:

• Pirate Festival, chicken dinners, games, pirate crafts, pirate zoo, Thieves’ Market, best looking pirate contest, treasure hunts, Evangola State Park, Irving, fun starts at 11am, parade and best dressed at 5pm
• Canal Fest of the Tonawandas: Last day! Entertainment, games, rides and food. The largest event held anywhere along the New York State canal system. Arts and crafts show all day, Lance Diamond show at 7:30pm, and fireworks at dusk.
• Niagara Wine Trail USA Wine and Culinary Festival at Artpark: The 1st Annual Wine and Culinary Festival will feature wine tasting from the Niagara Wine Trail USA wineries, cuisine from local restaurants, and jazz music before each BPO SummerFest concert (today’s show: Guitar Hero), 450 South 4th St. Lewiston, 12-6pm
• News Jazz at the Albright Concert Series featuring Don Rice: The California soxophinist joins basist Jim Kurzdorfer and drummer Dan Hull for a great afternoon of summertime jazz, Albright Knox Art Gallery, Elmwood Avenue, 2pm
• The Dangerous Summer w/ Ace Enders and Person L: This is a concert in case you’re unfamiliar with any of the names. Members of The Dangerous Summer are fresh out of high school, but promoters say they surpass their contemporaries and promise a great show, Mohawk Place, 47 East Mohawk, Buffalo, 6:30pm.

Titles Please

Let me begin by saying great job to everyone who covered events this weekend - we have pictures from Italian Festival (courtesy of two of our photographers), Buffalo Rocks the Harbor (two shows this weekend), the Jazz Fest at the Albright Knox, the Polish Arts Festival, and much more...thanks to all.

Obviously there are some massive differences between MyBuffalo.com and Spotted, and we're all adjusting to the new site. One of the things that we would like to see more of - proper titles on your photos. When you're uploading them, please designate the event that they were taken at in addition to saving those photos into a set.

We also haven't forgotten the multi-photo uploader, work is underway, and we anticipate the product to be delivered in the weeks ahead.

I'm working on the events list and will have that emailed to you sometime this afternoon.

We appreciate all your cooperation. If you have any questions, feel free to contact Ben or I.


Thanks!

Deanna

Weekend events

Buffalo.com photo by bellasadie.

I sent this via email, too, but wanted to make sure everyone sees it...so here it goes...

There are a few events this weekend that are currently unselected and I wanted to toss them back out there again for everyone to consider...if you're interested, let me know!

Thursday - Sunday: Buffalo Italian Heritage Festival.
We could definitely use writers/photographers for the Buffalo Italian Heritage Festival, which runs from Thursday through Sunday in the city's Little Italy section (Hertel Ave. between Elmwood and Parkside). Good food, good people, and a lot of fun. An easy shoot for photographers and lots of angles for writers. I think I am going out on Thursday and Saturday to shoot some video/photos, but the more the merrier for this major summer event.

Sunday: Buffalo News Summer Jazz Series with The Buffalo Brass. I am not going to pretend that I know a lot about jazz, but I have heard that this is considered one of the top "gigs" in town (is that what the jazz fellows call a performance?). This is a very relaxed shoot - literally the entire crowd is laying around on blankets and lawn chairs. If you're writing a story, we are looking for a review - and it would be interesting to try your hand at something a little out of the ordinary like a jazz concert. Anyhow, this is one of those events that make summer in Buffalo unique, and there are only three of these shows, and one is already done - so it would be excellent to get a person or two out here. It's on the lawn facing Delaware Park behind the Albright-Knox Art Gallery and it starts at 2 PM.

Sunday: Wilco. One of the top American rock bands recording and touring today. I can't make this show on Sunday or I would snatch it up myself. Seriously, Wilco is a great band - it would be a shame if we didn't get a little photo or review of this one. It's an Artpark show - expect a big crowd - and the opener, Conor Oberst, is also an outstanding young artist. Dammit, why can't I go to this one! Anyhow, let me know if you are interested and I will see about getting a pass. Show starts at 8 PM out at Artpark in Lewiston.

That's Hot - Warped Tour Preview

Kristie Taft is a local music writer we met on Twitter, and she's been writing reviews, previews, and conducting interviews for MyBuffalo.com. Recently, we started a video segment with her, too. You can find her at MyBuffalo.com under the name FluxyStar...check it out, she does a nice job.

Mambo Italiano

We could definitely use writers/photographers for the Buffalo Italian Heritage Festival, which runs from Thursday through Sunday in the city's Little Italy section (Hertel Ave. between Elmwood and Parkside). Good food, good people, and a lot of fun. An easy shoot for photographers and lots of angles for writers. I think I am going out on Thursday and Saturday to shoot some video/photos, but the more the merrier for this major summer event. If you are interested, let me or Deanna know...

Congratulations Dan!

Congratulations to MyBuffalo contributor Dan Ruggiero and his wife, who are celebrating 25 years of marriage. Here's to 25 more!

Events list: 7-14 to 7-19

Buffalo.com photo by Marc Wierzbowski.


Tuesday

· Drums Along The Waterfront preview: Rhythm at the Rapids. World class drum and bugle corps will showcase the power and precision of their musical athleticism with one of the word’s natural wonders serving as a backdrop. This “Rhythm at the Rapids” event is a kick-off to the main competition, Drums Along the Waterfront on August 2 at Ralph Wilson Stadium. Each corps features 150 musical athletes. 2 PM to 3 PM, Terrapin Point (located in front of the Top of the Falls Restaurant), Goat Island, Niagara Falls State Park, Niagara Falls.

· Fairgrounds Concert Series: Chubby Checker and The Wildcats. The original “Twist” king comes to the Fairgrounds! 7 PM, Erie County Fairgrounds, Hamburg.

Wednesday

· Gateway Park Concert Series: Exit and Joyryde. Enjoy hard rock from a pair of outstanding local cover bands. A relaxed event, lots of people, and a good way to get through the middle of the week. 6 PM and 8 PM, Gateway Harbor Park, Sweeney Street, North Tonawanda.

· Wednesdays at the Gorge: Big Bad Voodoo Daddy. Ever see the movie Swingers with Vince Vaughn? Then you are familiar with Big Bad Voodoo Daddy, the swingin’ band featured in that cult classic. Check them out live at a great venue on a summer night. 6:30 PM, Artpark, S. 3rd St., Lewiston.


Thursday


· Buffalo Italian Heritage Festival. The famous Italian Festival! Always lots of people and a great time. Thursday highlights: Opening ceremonies, 5:30 PM; Cheese Building Contest, 6:20 PM; Boys of Summer, 8:40 PM. Hertel Avenue, Buffalo.

· Thursday at the Square: George Clinton and Parliament/Funkadelic. If you don’t like P-Funk, well…I don’t know what to tell you. Enjoy a performance by one of the most famous acts in rock ‘n’ roll history and hang out with the Buffalo.com crew as we do our usual photo/video/review business. Be at The Square by 6 PM and meet us at the merchandise tent, located to the immediate right of the stage.


Friday

· Buffalo Italian Heritage Festival. The famous Italian Festival! Always lots of people and a great time. Friday highlights: The Diva Show, 8:30 PM (and about 10,000 people during the course of the day).

· Subaru Buffalo 4-Mile Chase. Considered the social race of the summer, thousands of people will gather in Bidwell Park for this popular run and big-time party. 5 PM to 10 PM, Bidwell Park, Elmwood Village, Buffalo.

· Molson Canal Concert Series: Kim Mitchell. The legendary Canadian rocker and 107.1-FM DJ fires up the Lock City with some of his greatest hits. Check him out! Gates open at 5 PM, Ulrich City Centre, main Street, Lockport.

· Leann Rimes. The Grammy and CMA-winning country star performs live. Being a nationally known singer since the tender age of 11, LeAnn has matured in her vocal talent and also her songwriting. LeAnn is responsible for hits such as “Blue,” ” How Do I Live,” and “Can’t Fight the Moonlight.” NEED A WRITER ONLY. MUST MAKE REQUEST BEFORE TUESDAY AT 3 PM. 8 PM, Seneca Allegany Events Center, Seneca Allegany Casino, Salamanca.

Saturday

· Buffalo Italian Heritage Festival. The famous Italian Festival! Always lots of people and a great time. Saturday highlights: Italian Idol, 2 PM; Dancing with the Stars, 4 PM; The Mick Hayes Band, 6:30 PM; Beatle Magic, 8:30 PM.

· BurgerFest/Taste of Hamburg. A celebration of our good friend the Hamburger in the village of Hamburg – a carnival atmosphere, bands, people and of course lots of meat. Noon, Main Street, Hamburg.

· Buffalo Place Rocks the Harbor: Robert Cray. The legendary blues guitarist performs live in Buffalo in what promises to be a show to remember. This guy is supposed to be dynamite live – don’t miss a chance to see a truly magnificent guitarist shred the blues in your own backyard. Gates open at 5 PM, Erie Canal Harbor, Buffalo.

· Buffalo Bisons: v. Toledo. Check out the Bisons as they play host to the rival MudHens. 7 PM, Coca-Cola Field, Buffalo.

· The Handsome Furs. One of the hottest indie rock acts in the country performs live in Buffalo - and here’s a good description of the duo: “Handsome Furs is compact and transportable; it allows us to travel to places a lot of fully-manned rock bands with a drum kit never make it to. And bring them to others, whether anyone notices or not. We believe good music helps you broaden your perspective without ramming things ham-fistedly down your throat.” Check it out! 9 PM, Soundlab, 110 Pearl St., Buffalo.

Sunday

· Buffalo News Summer Jazz Series: The Buffalo Brass. Get ready for a brass explosion! Always a good time when these guys perform. 2 PM, Albright-Knox Art Gallery, 1285 Elmwood Ave., Buffalo.

· Buffalo Italian Heritage Festival. The famous Italian Festival! Always lots of people and a great time. Sunday highlights: Italian Idol, 2 PM; Bella Buscarino with The Infinity School and special guests Mick Hayes and Bobby Jones, 7 PM.

· Canal Fest 2009. The start of the weeklong celebration that draws thousands of people to the excellent carnival atmosphere along the banks of the Erie Canal in Tonawanda and North Tonawanda. Sunday highlights: Lee Ron Zydeco and The Hot Tamales at 4 PM; Smooth…Sounds of Santana (North America’s #1 Santana tribute band!), 8 PM. Sweeney Street – Gateway Park area, Tonawanda/North Tonawanda.
· Buffalo Place Rocks the Harbor: The Black Crowes. One of the most enduring rock bands of the past 20 years will perform live in Buffalo – and who knows, the Robinson brothers may get into a fistfight onstage! It’s happened before – ah, brotherly love. Should be a great show. Let me know if you want to photo or review. Gates open at 5 PM, Erie Canal Harbor, Buffalo.

Ani DiFranco tonight - any takers?

Our photographer for the Ani DiFranco concert tonight had to cancel due to an injury. If you want to photograph the concert - or write a review - I need to know by 2 PM and no later.

The show is at Artpark and is scheduled to start at 8 PM. You'd probably want to get there relatively early, like...6 PM...in order to park, pick up your pass, and work the grounds a bit for photos (if you're going as a photog).

Let me know ASAP if you want to go, I need to know FAST!

Thanks!

Summer Fun at Darien Lake

Come one come all! To say thanks for your continued participation and support at MyBuffalo.com, we're taking you and a guest to Darien Lake for the day!

Mark your calendars for Saturday, August 29. We're inviting all our Buffalo.com contributors: bloggers, photographers, writers, etc. etc. etc to have fun in the sun on roller coasters, water rides, etc.

More details are coming...stay tuned to this blog and the weekly events emails for more information.

Thanks!

Deanna

QOH Photographer Needed & Apartment Search

The Queen of Heaven Carnival is this weekend, and unfortunately our photographer scheduled to attend will not be able to make it.

I just spoke to one of the organizers, and did you know that this event is the 2nd largest in WNY - second only to the Erie County Fair? They say the Taste of Buffalo won't be a major competitor because they encourage people to go to the Taste first then to the Carnival. The hours are: Friday: 5pm-1am, Saturday: Noon-1:00am, Sunday: Noon-10pm.

Know what that means for MyBuffalo? Plenty of opportunities to get people over to WNY's Social Network!

If you can stop into the Carnival for about an hour or so to take photos for MyBuffalo, let me know. I don't need to talk to the organizers, but would like a heads up for FYI purposes.

If you do go, when you arrive make sure to ask for a committee member (they'll be wearing t-shirts and will have radios).

If you have any questions, feel free to contact me.

Our Buffalo.com office summer intern, Lena is in the midst of an apartment search. She's looking for either a one-bedroom, loft apartment, or someone in need of a roommate. If you or someone else is looking for a roommate or tenant, please email her at fly.xc14@gmail.com.


Thanks!

Deanna

Things that need work

Buffalo.com photo by Ben Kirst.

This line of thinking began in the comments section of a previous entry, and I wanted to address this directly.

Here is the list of what I consider the biggest issues that need to be fixed at MyBuffalo:

• Bulk uploader. Uploading five pics at a time is a royal pain in the...neck.
  
  
• "Most Recent Sets." People are legitimately having a difficult time finding their photos. If photos are posted Friday, and you check the site Monday, you may have to flip through 20 pages of pics to find your photo. That can't be helping traffic.
  
  
• Old photos are missing. The 2007-2008 photos are not uploaded yet. When are they going to be added? No one (myself included) wants to lose their old work.

The bulk uploader and the sets are intertwined in my mind - when we provide a bulk uploader, we need to add a way to put bulk photos into sets, or else it doesn't really make life any easier for you - once you bulk-upload your pics, you'd have to go in separately and make sets (well, you wouldn't HAVE to, but if you didn't, we would be back to square one, where no one could find photos).

I think that if we get those three issues addressed, we would go a long way towards solving a lot of contributor discomfort at the site. Deanna and I have a meeting scheduled with our tech team this week to address these specific issues. Hopefully we will have a timeline for solutions soon.

I know some of you may think I am blowing smoke - "Why isn't this stuff done yet? You've promised it for weeks!" - and well, I would have to admit you may have a point. However, it's one of those situations where some other major issues projects have also been taking up a lot of time, and our needs get bumped...not a great excuse, but that's what's happened. BuffaloNews.com is launching article commenting tomorrow, for example - a huge step for the paper - and that has been a big priority.

Anyhow: I can only plead now for patience...Deanna and I are advocating for changes, and we will be successful. Everyone at Buffalo.com wants the project to succeed - and it is doing well - but time and resources are always issues. We will continue the battle for change - hang in there with us!

Good stuff

Hey I also wanted to give a few shout-outs for jobs well done:

• Bill Parker dominated The Jam in the Valley in Varysburg with both photo and video. He has multiple sets posted, so look around for his work. Well done, Bill.
  
  
• Don Nieman's photos from the French-Indian War Encampment at Old Fort Niagara are just beautiful. I keep using that word to describe them, but man...Don is an artist.
  
  
• Ben Tsujimoto continues to add excellent sports content, particularly with his latest blog on the 2nd-place squads in the American League.
  
  
• Jeff Noto captured the funky vibe from the Thursday at the Square concert on July 2.
  
  
• Darleen Stry shares some important pet info...keep those shots current for your furry friends!
  

Buffalo.com musings

Buffalo.com video by Bill Parker.

I just posted the videos above and below from MyBuffalo. It took me about 30 seconds. It is amazing how easy some of the tools are to use at MyBuffalo...and they are available to everyone - you, me, the guy next door.

I feel like that is something that me and Deanna need to work on. We need to educate people more about the new site. I feel like we are trying to jam the square peg of Spotted/YourHub into to round hole of MyBuffalo. I feel like we need to do more to explain what is available at the site, and show people how to do it.

Our traffic so far is OK - it's about the same as we had at Spotted. That is decent, but now it's time to start growing this thing. And as we grow, you are going to come along for the ride - more people will read your stories, see your photos, comment on your media, make your acquaintance. I know that I want a lot more people seeing my photos and videos and blogs - I know you do, too.

I am completely open to suggestions that you may have. What does MyBuffalo need? What do you like about it? What do you hate about it? How would you change it? What confuses you? What would you want the world to know?

If you're reading this, you're a "power user." You're a regular at MyBuffalo. You were probably at Spotted and YourHub a lot, too. You have opinions and ideas...share them, and help us make you a better Web site.

Live at The Square with Gabrielle: 7-2-09

That's Hot! @ Buffalo.com - The Inaugural Epsiode

Events: 7-7 to 7-12

Buffalo.com photo by Don Nieman.

Tuesday

· Doug Yeomans and the Lo Blue Flame (Elmwood Village Free Summer Concert Series). A fun, relaxing evening in Bidwell Park with hundreds of laid-back locals, enjoying the smooth sounds of one of the Buffalo music scene’s elder statesmen. 7 PM, Bidwell Park, Elmwood Avenue, Buffalo.

· Buffalo Bisons Baseball: v. Scranton-Wilkes Barre. Check out the baby Mets vs. the Baby Yankees! 7 PM, Coca-Cola Field, Buffalo.

Wednesday

· Body Worlds media preview. Members of the media are invited to preview, photograph, and film Body Worlds & The Story of The Heart, the international museum blockbuster featuring a unique collection of over 200 authentic human specimens. If you want to attend this event for Buffalo.com, this is the time to do it – you may not get another chance. Includes opportunities to interview Dr. Angelina Whalley, creative and conceptual designer of the exhibit. A great, unique opportunity for writers and photographers! 8:30 AM (official premiere at 10 AM) to 1 PM, Buffalo Museum of Science, 1020 Humboldt Parkway, Buffalo.

· West Herr Gateway Harbor Concerts: Ozone Rangers and Poison Whisky. Classic rock fans – check out these tributes to ZZ Top and Lynyrd Skynyrd as part of a cool outdoor summer concert series. 6 PM and 8 PM (respectively), Gateway Harbor Park, Sweeney Street, North Tonawanda.

· Buffalo Bisons Baseball: v. Scranton-Wilkes Barre. Check out the Baby Mets vs. the Baby Yankees! 7 PM, Coca-Cola Field, Buffalo.


Thursday


· Boats, Bait and Beer. A kick-off event to the BassEye Celebrity Tournament to benefit cystic fibrosis. Food, beer and signature tropical cocktails provided
by Labatt USA, Tommy Bahama and Rich Renaissance Catering. Music is courtesy of Soul Committee. 6 PM, Rich Renaissance Atrium, 1 Robert Rich Way, Buffalo.

· Thursday at the Square: Los Lonely Boys. Come hang out at the Square with Buffalo.com and enjoy a free show by this well-received band from south of the border. The Grammy Award-winning band will perform, and we will be there shooting video, taking pics, and so on. Write a review, take some photos, and we will hook you up with some free concession tix. Should be a good time – as long as it doesn’t rain (again)! Meet us at the merchandise tent (stage right) at 6 PM, Lafayette Square, Buffalo.


Friday


· The Cult. If you’ve listened to 97 Rock or The Edge in the last couple hours, odds are pretty good that you’ve heard (at least) one song by The Cult. Popular amongst metalheads, alt-rockers, and classic rock fans alike, Ian Astbury and Billy Duffy have made solid music for over 25 years and reunited to record another album of new songs and tour the world. See them in Lockport as part of the weekly Molson Canal Concert Series! Gates open at 5 PM, Ulrich City Centre, Main Street, Lockport.

· Queen of Heaven Carnival 2009. One of the Southtowns’ biggest festivals/lawn fetes/parties of the year. Live music, carnival rides, all of that good stuff – and hundreds, nay thousands, of people out having a good time. 6 PM to Midnight, Queen of Heaven Church, 4220 Seneca St., corner of Mill Road, West Seneca.

· Nyckel City BUFFALO MUSIC EXPERIENCE. Lots of local music that spans a variety of genres, including bands like Displaced, Summer Reign Revolution, Edreys, and more. 8 PM, Town Ballroom, 681 Main St., Buffalo.


Saturday


· Taste of Buffalo 2009. 60 restaurants, 6 wineries and over 450,000 invited guests will gather in downtown Buffalo to enjoy "fun by the forkful." One of the region's signature events, the Taste of Buffalo is the largest two-day food festival in the United States. A great summer event! 11 AM to 9 PM, Niagara Square, Buffalo.

· Queen of Heaven Carnival 2009. One of the Southtowns’ biggest festivals/lawn fetes/parties of the year. Live music, carnival rides, all of that good stuff – and hundreds, nay thousands, of people out having a good time. Noon to Midnight, Queen of Heaven Church, 4220 Seneca St., corner of Mill Road, West Seneca.

· 2009 Slo-Pokes Firematic Tournament. Come see Firematic Racing teams from all over Western New York compete in the annual Main-Transit Firematic Tournament. Events feature both motorized and foot races, which utilize many facets of everyday
firefighting skills. Live music, too! 3 PM, Main-Transit Station No. 1, 6777 Main St., Amherst.

· Sugar Ray. The popular band responsible for hits like “Fly,” “Every Morning,” and “Someday” performs live at the Hard Rock Café in Niagara Falls. This should be a big show, and the folks at the Hard Rock have personally invited Buffalo.com to be there…so it should be fun. 5 PM, Hard Rock Café, 333 Prospect St., Niagara Falls.

· Blue Light Gateway Harbor Concert Series: Badfinger. The band that The Beatles once groomed as the next great rock ‘n’ roll phenomenon is back and touring. Check out this free show with hundreds of music fans on a summer night in WNY. 6 PM, Gateway Harbor Park, Sweeney Street, North Tonawanda.

· Marilla’s 6th Annual Civil War Weekend – Period Dance. Join City Fiddle and your pals Johnny Reb and Billy Yank as the Town of Marilla celebrates its annual Civil War reenactment with a period-themed dance. 7 PM to 11 PM, Marilla Town Park, Three Rod Road, Marilla.

· TNA Wrestling. The second-largest wrestling tour in the United States comes to Western New York. Some of the biggest stars in the wrestling world will be on hand for what will certainly be an explosive event. 7:30 PM, Hamburg Agri-Center, Erie County Fairgrounds, Hamburg.

· Splash Panic presents: Panic Attack! Fashion Show. Cutting edge fashion on a hot summer night! 8 PM, Tralf Music Hall, 622 Main St., Buffalo.


Sunday


· Run for Rover 5K. A race to support our furry friends, many of whom will be on hand (or should I say “on paw?” No I shouldn’t). 10 AM, LaSalle Park Pavilion, (Buffalo waterfront near Porter Avenue) Buffalo.

· Taste of Buffalo 2009. 60 restaurants, 6 wineries and over 450,000 invited guests will gather in downtown Buffalo to enjoy "fun by the forkful." One of the region's signature events, the Taste of Buffalo is the largest two-day food festival in the United States. A great summer event! 11 AM to 6 PM, Niagara Square, Buffalo.

· Buffalo News Summer Jazz Series: Bobby Jones and Friends. A great day of jazz in the heart of the city. One of the top local jazz concerts of the year! 2 PM, Albright-Knox Art Gallery (out on the back steps facing Delaware Park), Buffalo.

Quick note on "Featured" photos

Buffalo.com photo by Dan Ruggiero.

Hey, you may occasionally get messages in MyBuffalo that your photos have been changed. You may be thinking, "What the heck? I didn't change anything..."

When I feature photos on the Buffalo.com home page, I change the title of the photo to "Featured from MyBuffalo." This helps tie the pic back to the MyBuffalo site, and it prevents having ugly names like "DSC 0017.jpg" appear in the title bar on our home page.

Just wanted to let you know!