Events list: 8-11 to 8-16

Buffalo.com photo by Kathi Ross.

Wednesday

• The Erie County Fair (Aug. 12 – Aug. 23). Here is the deal on the Fair: Deanna and I will be out there on an almost daily basis, shooting video, blogging, Tweeting, taking photos, the whole deal. HOWEVER – you are absolutely welcome to come out and join us. Take photos, write stories, get an inside look at all of the fun stuff that happens at one of the biggest fairs in New York State.

A few things to keep in mind: 1.) you will need to sign in as a media member if you are there to take pictures or write a story. There is no wiggle room on this – you must sign in. 2.) Once you sign in, you will be assigned an escort. That’s right, you get your own escort! It’s much less obnoxious than it sounds, and you may in fact get golf cart access, as well. 3.) If you want to shoot or review a concert or other major Fair event, you need to follow the same procedure as you would with any show – book it through Deanna and me.

There are too many events for me to list in one message, so check the Web site for the big Fair doings (http://www.americas-fair.com/).

Hopefully these guidelines don’t discourage anyone – we would love to have you join us at this big-time event (there are MyBuffalo t-shirts in it for you, as well!). Let me know if/when you can get out to the Fair.

• Wednesdays at the Gorge: Gin Blossoms. Remember The Gin Blossoms? “Hey Jealousy?” “Allison Road?” “Found Out About You?” They were humungous in the 90s…check them out. 6:30 PM, Artpark, 450 4th St., Lewiston.
• Blues, Bikes, and BBQ. Join John LaMond or The Dean of Country and the Country Crew from WYRK as they shut the street down for the area's Hottest Blues, Baddest Bikes and Best BBQ. 8 PM to 11 PM, 391 Washington St., Buffalo.

Thursday

• Buffalo Bicycling Club Cobblestone Criterium Twilight Series. Watch Western New York’s premier racing cyclists battle for supremacy at this free series on a spectator friendly street circuit in the heart of Buffalo’s Cobblestone District. You invited to check out the action on Scott, Chicago, Perry and W. Market Streets. Racing starts at 6:30 p.m. and the start/finish line is located on Perry Street, Buffalo.
• The Decemberists. A critically acclaimed indie band featuring singer/guitarist Colin Meloy. You’ve seen them on Conan, you’ve seen them on SNL…now see them at UB. 8 PM, UB Center for the Arts, University at Buffalo North Campus, Amherst.


Friday

• Molson Canal Concert Fest: Charlie Daniels Band. The popular country-rocker brings his classic act to the Lock City. “The South Will Rise Again!” At least that’s what Charlie told us in the ‘70s. Check him out. Gates open at 5:30 PM, Ulrich City Centre, Lockport.
• Shakesperience. Shakespearience, (Shakespeare in Delaware Park’s high school apprenticeship program) will hold a performance prior to Shakespeare in Delaware Park’s main stage performance of Julius Caesar. This year’s show is an adapted 40 minute version of Antony and Cleopata with nine area High School Students performing. 6:15 PM, Delaware Park, Buffalo.
• Buffalo Bisons: v. Lehigh Valley. Come see the Bisons – it’s not every day you get to see the team with the least wins in professional baseball! Just the days that the Bisons have home games. Anyhow, these are still fun events with good crowds, and this will be a fridaynightbash! evening, so it should be a good time. 7 PM, Coca-Cola Field, Buffalo.
• Off The Cuff CD Release Party. A celebration of the latest release from the acoustic, Dave Matthews-inspired local jam band. These guys have been really asking for coverage and it would be great to get a photographer and/or a writer out to their show. Should be a good time with great music (and you’ll get a free CD out of it, too). 9:30 PM, Pearl Street Grill and Brewery, 76 Pearl St., Buffalo.

Saturday

• Scottish Festival and Highland Games. Scottish and Celtic music, bagpipe bands, sheep herding demos (oh you read that right), highland athletics, and much more. 9 AM to 5 PM, Amherst Museum, 3755 Tonawanda Creek Road, Amherst.
• Caribbean Islands Festival. It’s a celebration, mon! OK, that was corny. But this will be a great event with a parade, traditional costumes, bands, vendors, and a lot of island flavor. 11 AM to 10 PM, LaSalle Park, Buffalo.
• Takin’ It To The Streets. "Takin' It To The Streets," a popular, inspiring community rally featuring health and job information, food and clothing giveaways, dancing and musical performances, activities for the kids including Bubblefest from the Buffalo Museum of Science, as well as a host of other community-enriching activities, "Takin' It To The Streets" is one of the East Side's largest and longest running events. 11 AM to 9 PM, Martin Luther King Jr. Park, Best Street, Buffalo.
• Loretta Lynn. She’s the queen of country! Loretta Lynn had a string of country hits in the 60s and 70s and she is still considered one of the iconic Americans of the 20th century – she’s the coal miner’s daughter, for crying out loud. A great chance to see a legend perform. 7 PM, Seneca Allegany Casino, Salamanca.

Sunday

• Takin’ It To The Streets. "Takin' It To The Streets," a popular, inspiring community rally featuring health and job information, food and clothing giveaways, dancing and musical performances, activities for the kids including Bubblefest from the Buffalo Museum of Science, as well as a host of other community-enriching activities, "Takin' It To The Streets" is one of the East Side's largest and longest running events. 11 AM to 9 PM, Martin Luther King Jr. Park, Best Street, Buffalo.
• Caribbean Islands Festival. It’s a celebration, mon! OK, that was corny. But this will be a great event with a parade, traditional costumes, bands, vendors, and a lot of island flavor. 11 AM to 10 PM, LaSalle Park, Buffalo.
• Queen City Roller Girls Boot Camp. Yeah, the Bills are in training camp – so are the fierce skaters of the QCRC. Pay a visit to Boot Camp and see who makes the cut and who gets bounced out on their…roller skates. 11:30 AM, Rainbow Rink, 101 Oliver St., North Tonawanda.
• South Park Italian Festival. When you think South Buffalo, you probably think of the Irish first, but this Sunday, the South Buffalo Italian Festival Committee will hold their annual celebration of Italian culture to help beautify South Park. 2 PM to 8 PM, South Park Lake, South Park, Buffalo.
• Local Rock Showcase. All of your local favorites, including such bands as First Step Fall, Fighting For first, I Am Fiction, Rescue Dawn, AKS, City Of Kings, Brierhurst, Holotype. 3 PM, Club Infinity, 8166 Main St., Clarence.
• Carly’s Crossing. Carly's Crossing is a unique open-water swim event featuring timed and non-competitive courses for swimmers of all ages and experience levels, plus a family-friendly party on the beach! Swimmers choose from a one-mile timed or non-competitive course or a 600-yard non-competitive course and raise pledges in support of Carly's Club at Roswell Park Cancer Institute. 3 PM, Gallagher Beach in the Lake Erie Small Boat Harbor (1111 Fuhrmann Boulevard), Buffalo.
• Queen City Roller Girls: “Booty Block” – v. Montreal. The QCRC all-stars take on their high-flying guests from Montreal. Mayhem will ensue. 5:30 PM, Rainbow Rink, 101 Oliver St., North Tonawanda.

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.

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.

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.

This week's events list and other swell news

Buffalo.com photo by Jeff Noto.

Here is this week's events list. You may notice that it is short - being a holiday week, there is not a ton of organized activity in WNY - but each event is a potential goldmine in terms of popularity. Check the list closely! Also, you are always welcome to suggest your own stuff...in fact, I recommend it.

• I just wanted to take a quick second to thank everyone for the outstanding transition you're making to the new site. I know everything doesn't always work perfectly, and that the learning curve can be a pain in the neck, but by and large you are all getting a hang of everything and powering through. Fantastic work, everyone. And if you haven't been active...get active! There's a few of you I haven't heard from in a while. It would be great to get everyone back into the flow.

• I want to organize some kind of social event so the Buffalo.com team can hang out once again - anyone have any suggestions? The Bisons seem like an idea, but people weren't exactly swiping tickets out of my hand last year to sign up. Want to go to a bar? The beach? The Square? Let me know you suggestions and I will see if we can get something planned.

• I have been a bit of a slacker lately, but I do try to update the blog - http://buffalospotted.blogspot.com/ - make sure you're checking it every day or couple days, new stuff does float in there from time to time...

• Deanna is on vacation this week, so I am your man if you have any questions.

Alright, that's all for now - please let me know about this week's event, some volunteers would be great - and have a terrific week.



Tuesday


· Bisons Baseball: Big Brothers/Big Sisters of Erie County’s 6th Annual Night at the Ballpark. A great event – support our hometown ball club and the hard work of the BB/BS team all at one event. A fun and fulfilling night of professional baseball with one of the hardest-working agencies in town. Plus, you get the experience of roaming the ballpark as an accredited media member. The BB/BS party begins at 6:30 PM, first pitch is 7 PM at Coca-Cola Field, Buffalo.

· Elmwood Village Free Summer Concert Series: Neville Francis & the Riddim Posse. Singer/songwriter/guitarist Neville Francis and his outstanding reggae band perform live in one of the funkiest, coolest parts of the city. Expect a fun, eclectic crowd and some genuinely groovy music from Francis and company. The show is slated to begin at 7 PM in Bidwell Park, which intersects Elmwood Avenue, in Buffalo.

· Summer in the Parks 2009: Maestro Paul Ferington and the Buffalo Philharmonic Orchestra. Catch a performance by the acclaimed Buffalo Philharmonic Orchestra out of doors at the Buffalo and Erie County Botanical Gardens. The concert begins at 7 PM.


Wednesday

· Shakespeare in Delaware Park: The Tempest. One of William Shakespeare’s most beloved plays comes to life in the heart of Delaware Park for a mellow crowd of pleasant outdoor theatre-goers. Expecting a stuffy theater crowd? Think again – Shakespeare in the Park is all about lawn chairs, blankets, and a couple bottles of wine under the warm evening sun. Check it out for Buffalo.com – shows begin at 7:30 PM, and the best way into the area is heading into the park by the Rose Garden behind the Albright-Knox Art Gallery.

· Gateway Harbor Park Concert Series: Scott Celani and The Boys of Summer. Two of the area’s favorite local musical acts take the stage in North Tonawanda – singer/songwriter Scott Celani starts off the show at 6 PM, while The Boys of Summer take over at 8 PM. The shows will be at Gateway Harbor Park, Sweeney and Webster Sts., North Tonawanda.


Thursday

· Thursday at the Square: Zappa Playing Zappa. Dweezil Zappa’s project performs the work of his father, Frank, in this high-energy concert that is sure to be packed with thousands of Zappa fans and the usual assortment of party people. Let’s hope it doesn’t rain this week! Deanna is on vacation and I would welcome some help with this show – I’ll be shooting video and will do photo if needed, but it would be great to have a couple photogs and a writer on hand, too. Free concession tickets can be yours! Let me know if you can make it. Meet at Lafayette Square, Buffalo, at 6 PM.

Friday

· Lockport Molson Concert Series: Our Lady Peace. One of the most popular Canadian acts to crossover into the American market in the past 20 years, we here in Western New York were some of the first fans to latch onto OLP – and now they’re coming back with a free concert at the always-popular Molson series in Lockport. Great event for photos, should also be an interesting story opportunity. Gates open at 5 PM, Ulrich City Centre Courtyard, Lockport.


Saturday


· Buffalo’s 4th of July Celebration. Live music, vendors, fireworks, and thousands of people getting together to celebrate this wild place we call America. The city of Buffalo will begin its celebration at 5:15 PM at the Erie Canal Harbor site, but feel free to get there anytime before dark.

Also – if you are attending 4th of July festivities in your own hometown, but don’t necessarily want to write a comprehensive story or take dozens and dozens of photos – please feel free to a.) compose a blog on your own thoughts of the events and your feelings about the USA as we enter its 233rd year, or b.) bring along your camera and shoot some photos of the event, or even c.) break out the video camera and take a half-minute of fireworks or something along those lines. Relax and enjoy – it’s a holiday – but feel free to share some of your Independence Day with us at MyBuffalo, too.


Sunday


· Kiss 98.5 Beach Party/Beauty & The Beach Bikini Contest. And so begins the hardcore beach season in Western New York – the annual bikini contest and WKSE parties are staples at the Sunset Bay Beach Club. Feel free to head on down for the sun, the sand, and to represent Buffalo.com at what is always a wildly entertaining event. The bikini contest usually begins around 4 PM at Sunset Bay Beach Club in Irving. Oh, and the Malibu Rum Mod Squad and Sue O’Neil from 102.5-FM will be at Cabana Sam’s (right next door) from 6 PM to 8 PM.

Miscellaneous

I don’t specifically endorse this event – I’ve heard mixed reviews – but if you are interested, the Friendship Festival takes place throughout the week. Let me know if you’d like to go…

6-16 to 6-21 events and a whole lot of notes

Buffalo.com photo by Tom Kuenzi.

Here is your weekly events list...you will notice that it's a lot shorter than usual. We're going to be focusing on fewer but bigger events in our weekly lists from now on...the old style was getting really unwieldy. HOWEVER you are, as always, welcome to suggest events that may interest you - this list is not the be-all, end-all of activity in WNY - just a starting point, and stuff we'd like to see covered.

Some notes after a wild first week at MyBuffalo.com:

1.) Thanks to everyone for hanging in there through this transition - it's been tricky for all of us, but I feel like the new site is starting to take shape. In the long run, I guarantee you will like MyBuffalo better than the old products - but there is going to be a learning curve. Your comments, suggestions, questions, and ideas are always welcome - help us make a better site for you!

2.) Photographers - the bulk uploader is coming, I swear to you. I don't want it released until it is just right, so we are holding off for another couple days. If the bulk uploader doesn't ultimately make uploading and organizing your photos easier, then what is the point, right? So please be patient while we get the bulk uploader finished...it really is coming soon.

3.) Also - the photos from 2007 and 2008 do, in fact, still exist - they just have not been added to the site yet. More news on this is coming soon...but your pics aren't gone.

4.) Keep checking this blog. I have been updating it a lot lately, and I'd rather have you check stuff out at that blog rather than host one at MyBuffalo.com where everyone can see it...this one is a little more removed from the hustle and bustle. But remember, take a look at it daily!

5.) We had new cards to hand out...and now they're gone. What can I say, we had a great weekend. More are on the way - a lot more. I will do a mass mailing when they get in...which will hopefully be within a few days.

I really welcome everyone to be active at the site! MyBuffalo.com is more than just a passive site where you look at stuff and leave. Get involved - friend your fellow users, send messages, make snarky comments, post your pics, etc. it's somewhat addictive once you get rolling. We have some neat personalities on the MyBuffalo.com site, and this is a great chance to connect with a lot of different people in the program, people who work on Buffalo.com, and other people, as well.

I believe that is it for now...but if you ever have questions for me, just let me know.


Wednesday


· Concerts on the Canal Series: The Strangers and The Diva Show. Check out a total of four – that’s right, four – sets from two of Western New York’s favorite party bands. The Strangers play at 6 PM and 8 PM, while The Diva Show hits the stage at 7 PM and 9 PM. Lots of people love these bands – it would be great to get some coverage – photo, video, story, or otherwise. Let me know! The shows are at Gateway Harbor Park on Sweeney Street in North Tonawanda.



· Ted Leo and the Pharmacists. The underground icon from Washington, D.C. has an extremely loyal following in Buffalo, and it would be great to capture some scenes from what is sure to be an upbeat, positive, and rollicking indie rock show. Doors open at 7 PM, Tralf Music Hall, 622 Main St., Buffalo.


Thursday


· Thursday at the Square: Better Than Ezra. Another big week at the Square – opportunities for photo, video, and giveaways. We have lots of concert tickets and concession tickets to giveaway – and you are welcome to some of those goodies for helping out, as well. We even have our own home base at the merchandise tent. Whoever wants to help out is welcome! 5 PM to 9 PM (try to get there between 5 PM and 7 PM), Lafayette Square, Buffalo.



· Sir Paul McCartney Birthday Bass Ball Gathering. Celebrate the former Beatle’s birthday with a bunch of Buffalo best bassists! The low-end sound will be rattling the windows of Lancaster as bass players from around Western New York gather for a bone-rattling jam session. Starts at 7 PM at the Ellicott Manor, 16 Ellicott Place, Lancaster.



· Shakespeare in Delaware Park: The Tempest opening night. The first performance of the summer for the always-popular outdoor theatrical production in beautiful Delaware Park. Mingle with the laid-back crowd before and after the show, and enjoy a quality production of one of The Bard’s greatest works. Showtime is 7:30 PM near the Rose Garden/Casino in Delaware Park, Buffalo.



Friday


· The 9th Annual Buffalo River Fest. Opening night of the Valley Community Center’s annual party in the heart of South Buffalo’s Old First Ward. In addition to all of the other fun stuff that comes with a Buffalo festival, Friday night will feature a performance by WNY’s #1 party band, Hit-n-Run, from 8 PM to midnight. The River Fest begins at 6 PM. The event will be held in Father Conway Park, which is located between Louisiana and Ohio Streets in Downtown Buffalo, just one mile south of HSBC Arena.



· Buffalo Beatdown Boxing. Want to be ringside? Want a chance to see what happens behind the scenes at a prizefight? This is your chance. X-Cell Worldwide presents the Buffalo Beatdown at the Buffalo Convention Center. Featured boxers will be “Hands of Gold” Nick Casal, Meacher “Major Pain” Major and Buffalo's Lionel Thompson and Excell Holmes. The event begins at 6:30 PM at the Convention Center, located on Franklin Street in the heart of downtown Buffalo.



· Nylon Magazine Summer Music Tour. Want to see some of the hottest cutting-edge bands in the country? Check out Patrick Wolf, Living Things, The Plasticines, and Jaguar Love live in the heart of downtown Buffalo. You may be asking yourself, “Who the heck are these bands?” – but these are the musicians that you’ll be hearing about next year, and the years after, and the year after…a great opportunity to see some edgy and interesting indie music. Doors open at 8 PM at The Tralf Music Hall, 622 Main St., Buffalo.


Saturday


· The 9th Annual Buffalo River Fest. Day Two of the Valley Community Center’s annual party in the heart of South Buffalo’s Old First Ward.

Tons of interesting stuff happens today – the Rigidized Metals River Regatta with canoes, kayaks, and homemade boats begins at 11 AM (head over to the DEC Canoe Launch on Ohio St. to catch the end); live bands will be playing from noon to midnight; there will be a neighborhood reunion at 6 PM; and an 8-team slo-pitch softball tournament will be on the diamonds all day long.

Head over any time from 11 AM to midnight, and you’ll get a good story or great photos. The event will be held in Father Conway Park, which is located between Louisiana and Ohio Streets in Downtown Buffalo, just one mile south of HSBC Arena.


· Creative Black Tie Gala. A huge party featuring cool costumes and swanky outfits to benefit Camp Good Days. The theme this year – “A New Hope,” taking a page out of Star Wars. A very photo-friendly event – and they like having our people out at this event. Begins at 5 PM and goes until midnight at the Hyatt Regency, 2 Fountain Plaza, Buffalo.


Sunday

· Go to the Beach! There’s no specific event scheduled, but Sunday is a popular beach day at Sunset Bay and Angola on the Lake. Go to the beach…bring your camera…I guarantee you’ll end up with a wildly popular gallery. Or writers – head down to the seaside and report back on what music, fashion, and fun is in vogue on the sunny shores of Lake Erie this summer. Let me know if you’re interested!

Late but not lost: The Weekly Events List, 6-2 to 6-7

Buffalo.com photo by Marc Wierzbowski.

Tuesday

• Jack Astor’s 14th Annual Bartender Competition. Some of the area’s top drink jockeys battle for a trip to Las Vegas in this fun competition to benefit Women’s and Children’s Hospital. 7 PM, Jack Astor’s Bar and Grill, Walden Galleria Mall, Cheektowaga.

Wednesday

• Fourth Annual Buffalo Select Chorus Concert. The finest high school singes in Buffalo perform live for a full house at one of the most unique venues in the city. Local crooner Michael Civisca plays host for the evening, 7:30 PM, Asbury Hall at Babeville, 341 Delaware Ave., Buffalo.

Thursday

• 3rd Annual Sabres Alumni Fishing Derby. Check out the weigh-in and awards ceremony at beautiful Olcott Harbor. See some favorite from days of hockey past and how well they do with the rod and reel! 1 PM, Olcott Harbor, Olcott.
• Thursday at the Square: Disco Biscuits. The Disco Biscuits are a dynamic and popular live act with a cult following around the country – but hey, the best part of The Square is the people! Hang out with thousands of men and women from all corners of WNY looking for nothing more than a good time at one of the best weekly events of the summer. 6 PM, Lafayette Square, Buffalo.
• 2009 Corporate Challenge. One of the biggest races of the summer – thousands of Western New Yorkers gather in Delaware Park for a 5K run and a long night of partying. Ben and Deanna will be there running for The Buffalo News! I’ll be doing video, too. 6:45 PM, Delaware Park, Buffalo.

Friday

• Buffalo Greek Hellenic Festival. One of the favorite festivals of the year and a true gateway to summer – the “Greek Fest.” Lots of people, traditional dancing, music, and arts and crafts, and - of course – a party that never stops. 11 AM to midnight, Hellenic Orthodox Church, 146 West Utica St., Buffalo.
• Standard of Living CD Release Party. The up-and-coming punk-pop band from Amherst celebrates the release of its latest album with a special show in the city. 7 PM, Mohawk Place, 47 E. Mohawk St., Buffalo.
• The Bash 2009. Formerly known as “The MASH Bash,” this huge outdoor tent party to support the American Red Cross is truly one of the events of the summer season. Thousands of people, tons of food and drink, bands, dancing, and more make this a raucous good time in the heart of the city. 8 PM, American Red Cross Mansion, 786 Delaware Ave., Buffalo.


Saturday

• Buffalo Feis. Irish dancing, music, story-telling, and generally a lot of people who enjoy this sort of thing (and there are many, as this is part of an international competition). A fun event – but no videotaping is allowed and they are kind of strict about photographing the dancers. Otherwise, it’s an excellent day-long event. 7 AM (you don’t need to get there that early), competition begins at 8:30 AM, Hamburg Fairgrounds, Hamburg.
• Buffalo Greek Hellenic Festival. One of the favorite festivals of the year and a true gateway to summer – the “Greek Fest.” Lots of people, traditional dancing, music, and arts and crafts, and - of course – a party that never stops. 11 AM to midnight, Hellenic Orthodox Church, 146 West Utica St., Buffalo.
• Lancaster-Depew Ponytails Coca-Cola Classic Softball Tournament. The 12U and 14U teams compete in a tournament that will draw ultra-competitive girls’ softball squads from throughout the region. 11 AM, Walden Pond Park, Lancaster.
• Crash-A-Rama…The Wildest Show on Wheels. School bus figure 8 racing, a mini-van demolition derby…all sorts of fun stuff. If you can get some video, too, so much the better. Gates open at 4 PM, racing starts at 6:30 PM. Holland Speedway, 2 N Main St., Holland.
• Traditional German-Irish Night. Two of Buffalo’s largest ethnic groups get together for a party that will certainly include lots of suds and even more fun. 6 PM, Buffalo Irish Center, 245 Abbott Road, Buffalo.

Sunday

• Pride Weekend GLBT Parade and Celebration. One of the most colorful, campy, and all-around interesting parades you’ll ever see – a staple of the annual Pride Weekend festivities and a fun event that will attract hundreds to one of the funkiest parts of Buffalo. Parade runs from Main and Dodge to Bidwell Park on Elmwood Avenue and is followed by a party. Line-up begins at 11 AM.
• Buffalo Greek Hellenic Festival. One of the favorite festivals of the year and a true gateway to summer – the “Greek Fest.” Lots of people, traditional dancing, music, and arts and crafts, and - of course – a party that never stops. Noon to 9 PM, Hellenic Orthodox Church, 146 West Utica St., Buffalo.
• Superjam 2009. A star-studded outdoor blues jam – too many for me to name, but rest assured, if they play blues in Western New York, they will be at this show. Or, if you don’t want to rest assured, do a Google search. But seriously, this is a monster show. 1 PM to 9 PM, Creekside Grove, William St. and Union Road, Cheektowaga.
• Irish Wake for Buffalo Memorial Auditorium. The Aud is almost gone, but it’s certainly not forgotten – and there will be a lot of fun remembering some of those good old days at this fun, memorabilia-packed party. 5 PM, Pearl Street Grill and Brewery, 76 Pearl St., Buffalo.
• Benefit Concert for Bobby Jones. Some of the biggest names in the Buffalo jazz scene – Bobby Militello, Doug Yeomans, even Bobby Jones - take the stage to support one of their own. 7 PM, The Tralf, 622 Main St., Buffalo.

Look at the time fly

Hey, I am working on about 6 projects today and the events list may be a little late...should have it done and out by tonight (although I hope to have it done earlier) and tomorrow morning at the absolute latest. So if you don't have it by this time tomorrow...please let me or Deanna know.

A message from Deanna, or Why We're Late

Buffalo.com photo by Gabrielle Farah.

Due to a long holiday weekend and lots of work in the Buffalo.com office preparing to launch our new social networking site, MyBuffalo…we will be sending out an abbreviated events list for this weekend tomorrow.

That being said, we would like to send a photographer and writer to the first Thursday at the Square concert of the season featuring Gomez. The show begins at 5 pm at Lafayette Square, downtown.

Please let me know if you’re interested in taking pictures or writing an article about that show, otherwise check your email tomorrow for this week’s events list, and as always you are welcome to submit your suggestions.

5-19 to 5-24 events list

Buffalo.com photo by Elizabeth Wagner.

Tuesday

• Buffalo Bills rookies at The Hard Rock Café. The newest members of the Bills stop by the Hard Rock Café for dinner as part of the annual rookie tour of the region. 5 PM to 7 PM, Hard Rock Café, 333 Prospect St., Niagara Falls.
• Erie County Fairgrounds Cruise Night. One of the first of many popular cruise nights throughout Western New York. 5 PM to 9 PM, Erie County Fairgrounds, Hamburg.
• Fine Arts Night. An evening of concert music and student-produced, award-winning artwork. Immaculata Academy, 5138 South Park Ave., Hamburg.

Wednesday

• WBFO On the Border Wednesday Night Concert Series. Concert and live-to-air interview with Type:Relevant, winner of the 2009 Artvoice BOOM contest. 8 PM, Allen Hall, UB South Campus, Buffalo.
• Hillbilly Hellcats. Rockabilly favorites perform live. 8 PM, Mohawk Place, 47 E. Mohawk St., Buffalo.
• Chris Pureka. Alternative singer/songwriter folkstress performs live. 8 PM, Ninth Ward (downstairs from Babeville), Asbury Hall, 341 Delaware Ave., Buffalo.

Thursday

• Celebration of Life Luncheon and Awards Ceremony for Gilda’s Club. 11:30 AM – 1:30 PM, Adam’s Mark Hotel, Buffalo.
• International Institute of Buffalo’s 3rd Annual Global Citizen Award Celebration. Kaleida health and Canadian Consulate General Stephen Brereton are honored for their commitment to the mission of IIB. 6 PM to 8 PM, Burchfield Penney Art Gallery, Buffalo State College, Buffalo.
• WBNY-FM Glorified Rehearsal with The Gifted Children. Local rockers performs live as part of influential college station’s “Glorified Rehearsal” series. 7 PM to 11 PM, WBNY Lounge, Campbell Student Union, Buffalo State College, Buffalo.
• St. Joseph’s Collegiate Institute Commencement Ceremony. With special guest speaker David N. Campbell, Class of ’59, an internationally respected philanthropist. 7:30 PM, Kleinhans, 1 Symphony Circle, Buffalo.
• Ambassadors of Rock “Plug In and Win” event. Live music from Son of the Sun and 97 Rock’s Jickster are out at the Hard Rock. 8 PM, Hard Rock Café, 333 Prospect St., Niagara Falls.
• Chris Trapper. Push Stars lead singer performs live with local support from The Corrections and Bob Fera. 8 PM, The Tralf, 622 Main St., Buffalo.

Friday

• Sunset Bay Beach Club Opening Party. A big night on what is supposed to be a beautiful evening for one of the area’s most popular waterfront clubs. 7:30 PM – close, Sunset Bay Beach Club, Sunset Bay.
• Buffalo Bisons: v. Columbus. fridaynightbash! starts at 5 PM, game starts at 7 PM. Coca-Cola Field, Buffalo.
• Brigadoon. The legendary musical about the mysterious Scottish village hits the stage in Lancaster. 7:30 PM, Lancaster Opera House, 21 Central Ave., Lancaster.
• The Music Man. Niagara Regional Theater Guild presents the classic musical. 8 PM, Cardinal O’Hara High School, 39 O’Hara Road, North Tonawanda.
• Classical Music School 10th Anniversary Concert with the BPO. Muhammed School of Music founder Henri Muhammed and guest MC Beverly Todd present William Grant Still’s Afro-American Symphony. 8 PM, Kleinhans, 1 Symphony Circle, Buffalo.

Saturday

• “Soldiers through the Ages” at Old Fort Niagara. Reenactors portraying Niagara's garrisons from the colonial era through WWII, present exhibits of military vehicles, uniform programs, and tactical demonstrations. 9 AM to 5 PM, Old Fort Niagara, Youngstown.
• The “I Do” cocktail party for future brides and grooms. A special event geared towards professionals interested in hosting a party or corporate affair. Kind of a practice party! 11 AM to 2 PM, Five Fifty Banquet Hall, 550 Genesee St., Buffalo.
• Spirits and More Spirits. The Iron Island Museum was featured on the SciFi channel's "Ghost Hunters" program and was declared haunted by the TAPS team. This wine tasting is being held in conjunction with the TAPS team return to Buffalo. 1 PM – 6 PM, Iron Island Museum, 998 Lovejoy St., Buffalo.
• Buffalo Bisons: v. Columbus. 1 PM. Coca-Cola Field, Buffalo.
• Fashion Affair Runway Show. Seven of Western New York’s finest local designers will be showcasing their latest collections. Shana’s Shoe Box (Shana Feeley) and Kramp Kouture (Shannon Kramp) will be hosting the event. 6:30 PM, Palace Theatre, 2 East Ave., Lockport.
• The Scintas. Native Western New Yorkers-turned-Vegas-stars perform live. 8 PM, Seneca Niagara Events Center, Niagara Falls.
• Studio 54. Western New York’s #1 dance band parties in the Southtowns. 10 PM, Club Paradise, 3950 McKinley Parkway, Blasdell.

Sunday

• Buffalo Marathon. It starts early, but people will be coming in all morning, and there will be a big party afterwards. 7 AM start; finishes around 9 AM – noon in front of the Convention Center. 7 AM – noon, Buffalo Convention Center, Franklin St., Buffalo.
• Southgate Plaza Spring Carnival. Rides, games, carnival excitement and a chicken BBQ – and a fireworks display at dusk. Noon to dusk, Southgate Plaza, 950 Union Road, West Seneca.
• Memorial Day Meltdown. See the 700 horsepower MSA Winged Super Modifieds race around the half mile oval track in less than 15 seconds! Also on the schedule are the 4 Cylinders, Street Stocks, and Modifieds. Special guest driver and reigning NASCAR Whelen Modified Tour Champion Ted Christopher will be competing in the Modified feature. I don’t know what any of those words mean. Gates open at 2 PM, event begins at 54 PM. Dunn Tire Raceway, 57 Gunnville Road, Lancaster.
• Greater Buffalo Youth Orchestra Gala Concert. The Greater Buffalo Youth Orchestra will conclude its 50th season concert season with a Gala concert event. The performance will feature Charles Weatherbee, a GBYO alumnist. 3 PM, Kleinhans Music Hall, 1 Symphony Circle, Buffalo.
• Love, Lust, and Wine. Wine tasting featuring five different wineries, an erotic art display, and live jazz. 6 PM to 9:30 PM, O Restaurant and Lounge, 3047 Sheridan Drive, Buffalo.
• Irish Ceili. Local dance enthusiasts kick up their heels and enjoy the Antrim Square, the Connemarra Reel, and other lively moves. 8 PM, Buffalo Irish Center, 245 Abbott Road, Buffalo.

Cinco de Mayo in our fair city

Buffalo.com photo by Marc Wierzbowski.

You received our weekly events list a couple hours ago...but sitting here, looking at the calendar, I just realized - "Good Lord, I forgot about one of the big party holidays of the year - Cinco de Mayo."

There are many Cinco events going on in Buffalo tomorrow - and you can see a comprehensive list by visiting http://www.cincobuffalo.com/.

Some suggestions that might be popular:

· Buffalo’s Biggest Cinco de Mayo party. The yardstick by which local Cinco de Mayo parties are measured. 2 PM – all nite, Cozumel Grill and Tequila Bar, 153 Elmwood Ave., Buffalo.

· Cinco de Mayo! Good times and a taco bar. Croc Bar, 88 W Chippewa St., Buffalo.

If you want to hit a Cinco bash, just let me know and we can work it out.

Events list: 5-5 to 5-10

Buffalo.com photo by Eric Malinowski.

Tuesday

• HEART, INC. Animal Rescue and Adoption Team Annual Spaghetti Dinner. Lots of food and fun to help our animal friends. 4 PM to 7:30 PM, American Legion Post 567, 3740 N. Buffalo Road, Orchard Park.
• Sisters of St. Francis Food and Wine Tasting. This very special event will feature delicious food, outstanding wine, great fellowship and, back by popular demand, the very irresistible “Nun-Sweeter Bake Sale.” 5 PM to 7 PM, St. Mary of Angels, 201 Reist St., Williamsville.
• The Hills are Alive with the Sound of Buffalo State! The Buffalo State Alumni Association hosts a special reception preceding the Choral Concert in the Performing Arts Center of Rockwell Hall, including refreshments in the Metcalfe Room followed by a joint vocal concert featuring the Silas L. Boyd Memorial A Cappella Alumni Choir, the Buffalo State College Chorale and the Lackawanna High School Choir. This is the first time that all three groups will be performing together. Reception, 6 PM, concert, 7 PM. Performing Arts Center at Rockwell Hall, Buffalo State College, Buffalo.
• Bouncing Souls. Popular punk band returns to Buffalo as part of 20th anniversary tour. 7 PM, Town Ballroom, 681 Main St., Buffalo.
• Mogwai. Scottish psych-rockers perform live. 7 PM, The Tralf, 622 Main St., Buffalo.

Wednesday

• BASH ’09 Gift Gathering party. A fun happy hour at the impressive Red Cross headquarters to collect gifts for the annual Red Cross MASH BASH. 5:30 PM to 7:30 PM, American Red Cross Headquarters, 786 Delaware Ave., Buffalo.
• Gavin Rossdale. Former Bush frontman, husband of Gwen Stefani performs live. 7 PM, Town Ballroom, 681 Main St., Buffalo.
• WBFO-FM On The Border: Mick Hayes Band. The incredible Buffalo bluesman performs live-to-air on WBFO-FM as part of the station’s increasingly popular Wednesday night live series. 7:30 PM, WBFO-FM studio, Allen Hall, UB South Campus, Buffalo.

Thursday

• Art’scool Educators Night Out. Local art teachers mingle, network, and tour the Albright-Knox Art Gallery. 4 PM to 7 PM, Albright Knox Art Gallery, 1285 Elmwood Ave., Buffalo
• Cabana Sam’s Opening Night Party. Popular beach bar celebrates the first night of the summer season. 7 PM, Cabana Sam’s Beach Bar & Grill, Sunset Bay.
• All Time Low. Very popular pop-punk band from Maryland performs live. 7 PM, Town Ballroom, 681 Main St., Buffalo.

Friday

• Regional Preservation Awards Luncheon. Thirteen Buffalo and Western New York projects will be honored for their exemplary historic preservation efforts, ranging from the $7 million adaptive reuse of the former Army Commissary Building at Old Fort Niagara to the skilled restoration of the small, 165-year-old cobblestone First Baptist Church of Newfane. 11:30 AM to 1:30 PM, Hyatt Regency Hotel, 2 Fountain Plaza, Buffalo.
• 3rd Annual Wine Celebration and Farmer’s Market. Join Ari Shapiro of National Public Radio as WBFO-FM offers wine sampling and a sneak peek at the Farmer’s Market. 6 PM, Center for Tomorrow, UB North Campus, Amherst.
• 2009 Boys and Girls Club of Buffalo AkidEMY Awards. Cocktail hour and awards ceremony featuring entertainment, dinner, and fun to honor the amazing youths and outstanding individuals in the Boys and Girls Club programs. 6:30 PM, Adams Mark Hotel, Buffalo.
• Music is Art fundraiser at the Buffalo Irish Center. Live music from big Buffalo bands like Type:Relevant, Free Henry!, and others. Supports Robby Takac’s Music is Art foundation. 7 PM, Buffalo Irish Center, 245 Abbott Road, Buffalo.
• Holland Tulip Festival Queen Pageant and Talent Show. A classic competition at a terrific small-town festival. 7 PM, Holland High School, 103 Canada St., Holland.
• What Goes Up movie premiere and after-party with The Innocent Bystanders. The Innocent Bystanders are a Buffalo pop-rock band with four songs in the new film What Goes Up starring Hillary Duff and Molly Shannon. The band will watch the premiere with fans and then host an after-party at Pure nightclub. PHOTOGRAPHERS: If you are interested, you will obviously need to go to the after-party for photos. WRITERS: If you go, plan on doing both a movie review and interviewing the band. 7:15 PM, Market Arcade Theatre, 639 Main St., Buffalo; 10 PM, Pure, 75 Chippewa Ave., Buffalo.
• Brigham Young University Ballroom Dance Company. The US national champion formation team dances their socks off in this rare local performance. 7:30 PM, Performing Arts Center at Rockwell Hall, Buffalo State College, Buffalo.
• Longwave. Indie rockers from Rochester who have earned a national following perform live. 8 PM, Mohawk Place, 47 E. Mohawk St., Buffalo.

Saturday

• WEDG 103.3 FM co-ed softball tournament. A full day of softball action followed by a big party at Rafferty’s (2794 Harlem Road). 8 AM to 6 PM, Cheektowaga Town Park, Cheektowaga.
• 4th Annual Tails on the Trails dog walk. Pet Connections hosts a special day for dogs, including a pet blessing, demonstrations, and other fun “designed with doggies in mind.” 10 AM to 3 PM, Como Park Lake (begins at the Rich Marino Gazebo), Lancaster.
• Buffalo Niagara Green Expo. Over 75 exhibitors offer info on living green at home, in one’s diet, garden, business, etc. – and opportunities to check out green employers. 10 AM to 4 PM, Main Place Mall, Buffalo.
• St. Luke’s Mission of Mercy Run for Goodness Sake Quarter Marathon. A big race for a good cause at a beautiful spring spot in South Buffalo. 10 AM, Buffalo and Erie County Botanical Gardens, 2655 South Park Ave., Buffalo.
• Buffalo Bisons: v. New Orleans. 1 PM, Coca-Cola Field, Buffalo.
• Raven-Symone: Live at Darien Lake. The Cosby Show and Nickelodeon TV star performs live at Darien Lake. 5 PM, Darien Lake Laser Stage, Darien Lake Theme Park Resort, Darien Center. • The Machine: America’s #1 Tribute to Pink Floyd. We don’t need no education. 7 PM and 9:30 PM shows. Seneca Niagara Casino, Niagara Falls.
• Wine and Dine Fundraiser for Temple Beth Zion. A big party with music by Free Henry! 7 PM, Westwood Country Club, 772 N Forest Road, Amherst.
• Queen City Roller Girls “Bunny Stomp.” The Devil Dollies skate against the Nickel City Knockouts – and then, after the match, members of the Queen City Roller Girls will have their heads shaved to support Roswell Park. 7 PM, Rainbow Rink, 101 Oliver St., North Tonawanda.
• Southside Johnny and the Asbury Jukes. The New Jersey rock legend performs live in Buffalo. 8 PM, Town Ballroom, 681 Main St., Buffalo.

Sunday

• University at Buffalo Undergraduate Commencement Ceremony for College of Arts and Sciences. The big graduation ceremony at UB – thousands of students and their families. 10 AM, Alumni Arena, UB North Campus, Amherst.
• Buffalo Bisons: v. New Orleans. 1 PM, Coca-Cola Field, Buffalo.

Events list: 4-28 to 5-3

Buffalo.com photo by Eric Malinowski.

Tuesday:

• UB Softball: Lady Bulls take on St. Bonaventure, Nan Harvey Field, 3pm
• Big 4 Baseball Classic: Canisius vs. Niagara, Demske Sports Complex, 3pm
  

Wednesday:

• Steelhead Challenge: Fishing tournament to benefit the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation, King of the Cast Tournament reception taking place at Barton Hill and Spa, 100 Water St., Lewiston, 6 p.m.

Thursday:

• 8th District Federated Garden Clubs Annual Installation and Luncheon: The 8th Districted Federated Garden Clubs of New York State to hold Installation of officers for 2009-2011. Day long events include annual meeting, luncheon, and Flower Design program 9am- 3pm, Brookfield Country Club
• Community Health and Wellness Fair: Free advice on many health related topics. Villa Maria College, 240 Pine Ridge Rd., Cheektowaga, 10am-1pm
• California Dreamin’ Reception: Proceeds support a range of experiential opportunities provided to the students in Niagara University’s nationally ranked College of Hospitality and Tourism Management, Salvatore’s Italian Gardens, Transit Road, Depew, 6pm.
• Twiztid: Twiztid returns to Buffalo along with special guests: Prozac, Potluck and Boondox. The Town Ballroom, 681 Main Street, Buffalo, 7pm
• HOME’s 46th Anniversary Dinner Celebration: Fundraiser for Housing Opportunities Made Equal, 700 Main Street, 3rd Floor Buffalo, 5pm
  

Friday:

• UB Softball: Lady Bulls take on Western Michigan, Amherst Audobon Field, 1pm
• UB Baseball: Bulls take on Kent State, Audobon Field, Amherst, 3pm
• The Buffalo Niagara Film Festival: 10-day international film festival and market kicks off with opening ceremony and car show, Riviera Theatre, 3pm
• Dragonforce: Metal legends perform at The Town Ballroom, 681 Main Street, Buffalo, 6pm
• Smelt Festival: The Niagara River Anglers and the Lower Niagara River Region Chamber of Commerce will batter and fry hundreds of pounds of smelt at the Lewiston Waterfront, live music too, 6pm
• Friends of Harmony Annual Show: Friends of Harmony Annual Spring Show "Come Fly With Me" featuring the 50 man a cappella chorus, a parade of quartets and one of the top 10 ladies choruses in the nation, Buffalo Gateway Chorus. East Aurora High School, 1003 Center Street, East Aurora, 7:30PM
• An Evening with Staind: This American rock band has recorded six albums and has had multiple chart topping singles. Seneca Niagara Events Center, 8pm.
• Funny Money: Henry Perkins’ boring life gets turned upside down when he accidentally switches briefcases with a Russian mobster, only to discover that there’s $5,000,000 inside! Lancaster Opera House, 21 Central Avenue, 7:30pm
• GO, DOG. GO! Adapted from the book by P.D. Eastman; Theatre of Youth presentation: dogs are here, there and everywhere. Allendale Theatre, 203 Allen St. Buffalo, 7 pm
  

Saturday:

• UB Baseball: Bulls take on Kent State, Amherst Audobon Field, 1pm
• UB Softball: Lady Bulls take on Northern Illinois, Nan Harvey Field, Amherst, 2pm
• GO, DOG. GO! Adapted from the book by P.D. Eastman; Theatre of Youth presentation: dogs are here, there and everywhere. Allendale Theatre, 203 Allen St. Buffalo, 2 pm
• The AP Tour w. The Maine, 3OH3!, Family Force 5: Extreme dance and techno music at The Town Ballroom, 681 Main Street, Buffalo 6pm
• Showcase-Business, Home & Health Show: Over 80 local vendors will be showcasing their products and services. Lincoln Park Arena 1200 Parker Blvd , Tonawanda, 11am-6pm
• Walk MS Buffalo: Over 1200 participants will come together to walk and raise funds to help create a world free of MS. Coca-Cola Field: 275 Washington St, Buffalo 9am
• 11th Annual Black and White Ball: One-of-a-kind silent auction, food, entertainment, benefits local tourism efforts, Roycroft Inn, East Aurora 7-11pm
• Funny Money: Henry Perkins’ boring life gets turned upside down when he accidentally switches briefcases with a Russian mobster, only to discover that there’s $5,000,000 inside! Lancaster Opera House, 21 Central Avenue, 7:30pm
• Kendra Shank Quartet: The Kendra Shank Quartet and Frank Kimbrough will perform as part of the 2008-2009 Hunt Real Estate Art of Jazz Series, Albright-Knox Art Gallery, 8pm
  

Sunday:

• UB Baseball: Bulls take on Kent State, Amherst Audobon Field, 1pm
• UB Softball: Lady Bulls take on Northern Illinois, Nan Harvey Field, Amherst, 1pm
• Showcase-Business, Home & Health Show: Over 80 local vendors will be showcasing their products and services. Lincoln Park Arena 1200 Parker Blvd , Tonawanda, 11am-4pm
• GO, DOG. GO! Adapted from the book by P.D. Eastman, In this crayon colored adaptation dogs are here, there and everywhere. Allendale Theatre, 203 Allen St. Buffalo, 2 pm
• Funny Money: Henry Perkins’ boring life gets turned upside down when he accidentally switches briefcases with a Russian mobster, only to discover that there’s $5,000,000 inside! Lancaster Opera House, 21 Central Avenue, 2:30pm
  

Monday Bonus Event:

• WWE Monday Night Raw at HSBC Arena: World Wrestling Entertainment's Monday Night RAW is returning to Buffalo for the first time in over a year to HSBC Arena on Monday, at 7:30 p.m.

4-21 to 4-26 events

Buffalo.com photo by Josh Dee.

Sorry that the list is late today...I am working from home and the distractions are many (I do not recommend it). Anyhow, here you go...

...but first, a message from Deanna:

Next Tuesday, is The Buffalo News Kids Day. We’d like to get together a Buffalo.com team to work the corner of Southwestern Blvd. and Lake View Roads in Hamburg. We’ll be out there from 6am-8:30 or 9 am. All proceeds go to Women and Children’s Hospital. So far I have a couple volunteers (including one person who just started in the program)…but if a few more people could get up early…I’ll supply the coffee!

So please consider helping out, I know Deanna would appreciate it.

One note - you have NOT received this list in your email yet. I can't access my contact software from home, so I'll mail you your individual copies tomorrow, first thing.

If you have any questions, please let me know - and have a good night.

Tuesday

• The Holocaust and Art: Differing Approaches. A lecture (begins at noon @ The Drama Theater, UB Center for the Arts) by noted artist and historian, Marty J. Kalb, followed by a panel discussion that will also include noted artists Harvey Breverman and Saul Elkin. Photographer Richard Ehrlich will also be featured. His solo exhibit "The Holocaust Archive Revealed: Bad Arolsen through the lens of Richard Ehrlich," opens at 6:45 p.m. with a reception in the UB Art Gallery, Center for the Arts.

Wednesday

• WBFO On The Border: Them Jazzbeards. Live-to-air radio concert with local jazz legend David Kane’s Them Jazzbeards. *Note: this concert is a road show! It will be held at Medaille, not UB South Campus. 7:30 PM, Main Building Lecture Hall, Medaille College, 18 Agassiz Circle, Buffalo.
• Bill Nye (The Science Guy). A talk with the nationally-known TV science guru. 8 PM, Alumni Arena, UB North Campus, Amherst.
• Russian National Ballet Theatre: The Sleeping Beauty. Internationally renowned ballet troupe brings classic tale to the local stage. 8 PM, Center for the Arts, University at Buffalo North Campus, Amherst.
• The Thing. Described as “absurdly cool” by DJ Magazine, this Scandinavian jazz trio plays wildly enjoyable experimental music that remains surprisingly accessible. 8 PM, Hallwalls, 341 Delaware Ave., Buffalo.
• Tempest. Globally renowned hybrid of electric folk-rock from San Francisco, fusing Irish reels, Scottish ballads, Norwegian influences, etc. 8 PM, Buffalo Irish Center, 245 Abbott Road, Buffalo.

Thursday

• Take Your Kids to Work kickoff event. UB Football Coach Turner Gill and AD Warde Manuel speak and help jumpstart Take Your Kids to Work Day. Includes tours of Alumni Arena. 8:45 AM, Alumni Arena, UB North Campus, Amherst.
• 14th Annual Fine Wine and Food Festival. A celebration of the finer things on the dinner table. 5:30 PM to 8:30 PM, Shea’s Performing Arts Center, 646 Main St., Buffalo.
• Networking with a Twist. Hundreds of young professionals hang out, mingle, and shoot each other with lasers. 5:30 PM to 8:30 PM, LaserTron, 501 N. Bailey Ave., Amherst.
• Snocore 2009 Tour. Static X, Saliva, Burn Halo, and Flood perform live as part of this nationally touring show. 6 PM, Town Ballroom, 681 Main St., Buffalo.
• Disney’s High School Musical 2. The nationally touring version of the insanely popular song-and-dance sensation hits Western New York. 7:30 PM, Riviera Theatre, 67 Webster St., North Tonawanda.
• Hell Hole Honeys. Buffalo director Todd Warfield’s campy tribute to retro “women in prison” movies hits the stage at Alleyway Theater. For adult audiences only (photographers, practice discretion). 7:30 PM, Alleyway Theater, 1 Curtain Up Alley, Buffalo.
• God Said Ha! With Julia Sweeney. SNL alum presents her critically acclaimed one-woman show at UB as part of the Society for the Arts in Healthcare’s annual conference. 8 PM, Center for the Arts, UB North Campus, Amherst.
• Hard Rock Café Battle of the Bands. The Hard Rock is giving local bands Son of the Sun, The Innocent Bystanders, SixPin, The Common Kings the opportunity of a lifetime – a chance to win a spot onstage at Hard Rock Calling 2009 – the U.K.’s most anticipated music festival. 8 PM, Hard Rock Café, 333 Prospect St., Niagara Falls.

Friday

• WECK 1230 AM Ribbon Cutting Event. The Amherst Chamber of Commerce celebrates the opening on the local radio station’s new facilities. Good networking event. 9 AM, WECK Studios, 2900 Genesee St., Cheektowaga.
• Buffalo’s Third Annual Enviro-Fair. Re-Tree of Western New York, WNY AmeriCorps and the City of Buffalo for Buffalo's Third Annual Enviro-Fair featuring booths about ecology, recycling, alternative energy, etc. Mayor Byron Brown and Senator Antoine Thompson are scheduled to speak and trees will be planted by Re-Tree WNY volunteers close by the Square. In case of inclement weather, the event will move to the lobby of the LEEDS certified Blue Cross & Blue Shield building (257 Genesee Street) behind City Hall. 11 AM to 2 PM, Niagara Square, Buffalo.
• Beerology. New Museum fundraising event with samplings from local breweries, snacks, presentations on home brewing, entertainment, raffles, and more. 6 PM to 9 PM, Buffalo Museum of Science, 1020 Humboldt Pkwy, Buffalo.
• Buffalo Bisons Baseball: v. Syracuse. 6 PM, Coca Cola Field, Buffalo.
• Arts in Healthcare Film Festival. The Society for the Arts in Healthcare screens and awards Society member films that reflect the value of arts in healthcare. A post-screening panel discussion with artists and filmmakers will provide a unique view into the filmmaking process. 6:30 PM, Main Ballroom, Hyatt Regency, 2 Fountain Plaza, Buffalo.
• Take Back the Night 2009. This year marks the 30th anniversary of Take Back the Night at Buffalo State College. Take Back The Night is an event dedicated to giving a voice back to survivors of sexual violence. Last year, over 300 students, faculty, and staff attended this event. 7 PM, Campbell Student Union Social Hall, Buffalo State College, Buffalo.
• Threepenny Opera. Directed by Doug Zschiegner, associate director of NU Theatre, this 1928 musical satire of a satire of a satire tells the story of a crime lord of Victorian London who marries the daughter of an outfitting shop for beggars. Their adventures examine the attitudes towards crime and poverty and love and marriage of underground types who want it all. 8 PM, Leary Theatre, Clee Hall, Niagara University.
• Disney’s High School Musical 2. The nationally touring version of the insanely popular song-and-dance sensation hits Western New York. 7:30 PM, Riviera Theatre, 67 Webster St., North Tonawanda.
• Hustle for a Cure. The Seneca Niagara Events Center will be transformed into Western New York's biggest and grooviest nightclub for a night of food, drink, and disco, featuring the talents of Studio 54's hippest DJ John Ceglia and guest video DJ Ray Caputo. Disco attire is optional. 7:30 PM, Seneca Niagara Casino, Niagara Falls.
• Great Performers Series: Steve Tyrell’s “Back to Bacharach.” The distinguished Grammy Award-winning vocalist performs songs from his latest album, a tribute to the legendary Burt Bacharach. 8 PM, Rockwell Hall Performing Arts Center, Buffalo State College, Buffalo.
• Bada Bing! Bada Boom! Music and Comedy Italian Style. Cardinal Synne High School is hosting a special reunion concert featuring The Bada Bings, a male singing group that hasn't performed together in over 20 years. A world premiere side-splitting musical comedy in the style of NUNSENSE , BADA BING! BADA BOOM! features great Italian music made famous by Dean Martin, Perry Como, Jerry Vale, Louis Prima and others. 8 PM, MusicalFare Theatre, Daemen College, Amherst.

Saturday

• 68th Annual Western New York Science Congress. Regional science fair competition for students in grades 5 to 12. 9 AM to 3:30 PM, Buffalo State College, Buffalo.
• McCarthy Park Dedication Ceremony/Medaille baseball and softball. College officials and local dignitaries gather to help dedicate the newly renovated ball field in North Buffalo. Medialle College baseball and softball games follow immediately. Noon, McCarthy Park, Amherst St., Buffalo.
• Buffalo Rugby: v. Stoney Creek. 1 PM, Delaware Park (near the Zoo), Buffalo.
• Buffalo Bisons Baseball: v. Syracuse. 1 PM, Coca Cola Field, Buffalo.
• 9th Annual Choppers for Charity and Hogs Against Hunger Motorcycle Run. Live Music by Blackest Red and The Mike Salerno Band. Hard Tales Magazine on had to pick a Recognized Radical Award. Considered one of the best biker parties of the year. 2 PM to 7 PM, Rhino’s Rock Club, 3700 Southwestern Blvd., Orchard Park.
• Oom-Pah Palooza. A springfest party with traditional German music, dancing, keg tapping, free schnapps shots, special prizes, basket auctions, and so on. 5 PM to 11 PM, Lamm Post, 962 Werhle Drive, Williamsville.
• Amherst Youth Foundation 5th Annual Gala. The theme is “Hollywood Nights” and the event will support youth programs in Amherst. 6 PM to 11 PM, Independent Health Youth and Family Center, 5005 Sheridan Drive, Williamsville.
• Ring in Spring. Hammered dulcimer groups from Rochester and Buffalo perform live. 7 PM, Faith United Church of Christ, Maple and Hopkins Road, Williamsville.
• Disney’s High School Musical 2. The nationally touring version of the insanely popular song-and-dance sensation hits Western New York. 7:30 PM, Riviera Theatre, 67 Webster St., North Tonawanda.
• Visions of a Greater Buffalo. Opening celebration of a unique biennial endeavor that highlights the people and places of Western New York with images created by 100 of its most interesting and influential community members. 7 PM, CEPA Gallery at the market Arcade, 617 Main St., Buffalo.
• Emerging Choreographers’ Showcase. New works by some of the most creative dance minds at the University at Buffalo. 2 PM & 8 PM, Center for the Arts, UB North Campus, Amherst.
• The Doobie Brothers. Popular 70s rockers (“Jesus Is Just Alright With Me,” “China Road”) perform live. 8 PM, Seneca Niagara Casino, Niagara Falls.
• Goofy Song Night. ARTVOICE sponsors a special evening of local bands playing some of the funniest, sappiest, and just plain goofiest hit songs of the rock ‘n’ roll era. 10 PM, Nietzsche’s, 248 Allen St., Buffalo.
• Shock and Awe: Runway 2.0 After-party. The fashion show is over, now it’s time for the real action. 11 PM, Soundlab, 110 Pearl St., Buffalo.


Sunday

• March of Dimes March for Babies. A fundraising walk for the March of Dimes that attracts hundreds (thousands?) of local supporters. 9 AM, Delaware Park, Buffalo.
• Bowl for Kids’ Sake. Star 102.5’s Rob Lucas hosts a day of bowling in support of Big Brothers/Big Sisters of Erie County. Your old pal Ben will be there bowling with his brother, a BB/BS case manager, at 2 PM. Noon to 5 PM, Voelker’s Bowling Center, 686 Elmwood Ave., Buffalo.
• ACF Taste of Culinary 2009. An annual fundraising event put on by the American Culinary Federation. A portion of the proceeds will benefit the Chef and Child Foundation to encourage the fight against childhood obesity, and educate children about nutrition. Noon to 3 PM, Statler Ballroom, Statler Towers, Buffalo.
• Benefit for Simon Ferdinger. Six-year-old Simon has recently received a bone marrow transplant at Roswell Park Cancer Institute. The expense to treat this disease as well as to provide for their family is mounting. Special appearances by Buffalo Sabres Chris Butler and Andrew Peters, entertainment by The Whiskey River Band with Kimberly Ann and The Dennis George Show. Noon to 5 PM, Lakeshore Volunteer Fire Hall, 4591 Lakeshore Road, Hamburg.
• Buffalo Music Hall of Fame “I’ve got the after-the-tax blues” party. Live music from the Hot Guitars (featuring Tommy Z and Dave Constantino) and Cruzin’ Deuces. The Tap Room is also providing free BBQ for attendees…good stuff. 1 PM, Lafayette Tap Room, 391 Washington St., Buffalo.
• Club W Benefit for Wounded Soldiers. A special event to support servicemen injured in combat. 1 PM to 6 PM, Club W, 199 Delaware Ave., Buffalo.
• Buffalo Bisons Baseball: v. Syracuse. 1 PM, Coca Cola Field, Buffalo.
• Disney’s High School Musical 2. The nationally touring version of the insanely popular song-and-dance sensation hits Western New York. 2 PM, Riviera Theatre, 67 Webster St., North Tonawanda.