254 Search Results

• Crazy for Cupcakes Crazy for Cupcakes

  • From: schumeea1
  • Description:

    It all started with a very, very long workday. I started early, came home late, and texted grumpily: never a winning combination. "You deserve a cupcake," a friend responded to my woes. "Is that some crazy new standard of reward" I wondered? This was almost a week ago. I craved cupcakes from that moment forward.

    Cupcakes have been enjoying a resurgence in recent years, seeing upscale cupcake shops open in many major cities including New York's Magnolia Bakery, credited with starting the "cupcake craze," Georgetown Cupcake in Washington DC, a kitschy retro shop which packages its cupcakes in bright pink boxes, tied with a ribbon, and now Buffalo's Zillycakes, home of the cupcake bar. 

    I have never been to Magnolia, but once spent literally months planning to feast on the wares of Georgetown Cupcake(shown below). I was living in Washington at the time, and frequently read about their uniquely flavored and hugely popular confections in the local cooking magazines my Aunt loved to leave lying around when I was particularly hungry. Since I was usually busy trying to go to class, hold down an internship at USA Weekend, and navigate the metro system without being heinously late for neither, it took me quite some time to get my cupcake. The second I stepped foot into the brightly-colored bakery, I wished I had done so sooner. Sure, the cupcake was a little pricey. I felt slightly silly riding the train home with my little pink box carefully balanced on my lap. Was it worth it? Every penny, every second, every stare. Red velvet cake with buttercream frosting will do that to a person.

    Fast forward to last night, which found me actually inside Zillycakes for the first time. I had walked past their window, stopped, walked back, and oggled the crazy confections many a time, but never actually stepped foot inside the door. For me, going into a bakery is a lot like letting an alcoholic into a bar. There's no such thing as just "looking" at the addictive substances contained therein. Last night, beset by a pretty stressful week, I gave in to my cupcake craving. 

    Zillycakes is best known for their off-the-wall cake creations, including the Obama cupcake portrait owner Zilly Rosen crafted for the election (see below left), but their cupcakes are well worth the trip. Customers have the choice of a large or small cupcake in several flavors, including classics like vanilla, chocolate and red velvet, but this month also featuring a lavender cake, carrot cake, and several other fancy flavors.

    "I'd recommend getting one of the specials," the barista advised(do you call a cupcake peddler a barista? It seemed appropriate)."They're only here for a limited time." Once we decided on a base, we had our choice of several frosting options, and a wealth of decorations and add-ons, including some truly adorable ganache flowers. Not being one to get all frilly with a cupcake I'm just going to devour in a minute anyway, I went with what the barista called "vanilla crumbles" on my lavender cake with rose buttercream frosting. Hey. it was pink and white and sugary all over. In a word: perfection.

    The great thing about a cupcake is it doesn't come with the same guilt factor as a heaping pile of decadence like your average diner dessert. Full disclosure: I have been known to go a bit savage over the peanut butter pie at Pano's at times, and can easily polish off an entire Spot coffee cheesecake. Not that I've tried, mind you, but I know my cake capacity. With one innocent little cupcake, sweet afficionados can have their cake, eat it too, and not feel like a naughty girl an hour later. Bottom line: if you're looking for something fun and frivolous to do with your Friday evening, pop on down to Zillycakes and feed your inner child. A cupcake is a taste of that five year old's birthday party, except the cake is always your favorite flavor, and nobody's trying to steal your toys. I'll take that over a gold medal any day. 

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  • 5 months ago
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• Young Entertainers Get a Taste Young Entertainers Get a Taste of Hollywood

  • From: dmodica
  • Description:

    The Niagara Falls Hard Rock Café welcomed local dancers and vocalists Tuesday afternoon for the second part of the “Heather Morris Hollywood Experience” workshop.  Thirty children and young adults excitedly performed on stage after receiving dance instruction from up-and-coming actress Heather Morris and vocal training from Debbie Bello of Bello Voice Studio.

    Entertainment writer Tim O’Shei hosted the event and gave his insight about how to stay positive and make it in the business. Discussing tips from his book Live! Starring…You! and interviewing Morris about her experience as a rising actress, he gave the audience an idea of what it takes to succeed as a star.

    Best known for her role on the popular television show Glee, Morris originally started her career as a dancer and used her years of experience to train the young entertainers with inspired performances.  She also danced alongside talented recording artist Beyonce on her promotional tour to debut “Single Ladies” and taught the performers the dance to the popular song.

    The young performers who took part in the “Hollywood Experience” learned their dance moves in a short amount of time just like entertainers in the business have to.  Separated into two groups, the “Oh Snap!” members and “Gleeks” energetically danced and sang along to classic songs such as “Somebody to Love,” “Don’t Stop Believin,’” and a medley of Beyonce’s hit “Halo” and “Walking on Sunshine.”

    O’Shei interviewed Morris about her recent stardom in between each performance and further demonstrated the importance of keeping a positive attitude while trying to make it as a star. Morris expressed her excitement about her recent success noting, “Coming here and signing autographs is an entirely new experience for me. It is very humbling for me and I cannot thank everyone enough for being so welcoming.”

    Morris is the perfect example of how hard work can pay off in Hollywood. After touring with Beyonce and performing beside her on Saturday Night Live and The Today Show, she was offered a spot on the superstar’s tour. However, Morris decided to continue to pursue her lifelong dream of acting and turned down the job.

    Not long after she turned down Beyonce, Glee creator Ryan Murphy brought Morris on his set to teach the “Single Ladies” dance to some of the actors. Impressed with her talent, Murphy decided to hire Morris and made her dreams come true when he cast her as a cheerleader named “Brittany.”

    Morris beamed as she expressed her excitement over her first line on the television show. “It was so nerve-racking and thrilling at the same time.” Turning to her “students” she shared, “I hope you all get to experience it someday!”

    Morris and the young performers concluded the entertaining show by performing “Single Ladies” for the supportive crowd.  A highlight of the event, the star’s energy and talent visibly invigorated the children as they skillfully danced and sang.

    Fans of Heather Morris provide more information about the actress on http://heather-morris.com/

    For more information about the book Live! Starring…You! visit http://www.livestarringyou.com/

     

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  • 9 months ago
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• Curtain Up! on Buffalo's 2009- Curtain Up! on Buffalo's 2009-2010 Theatre Season

  • From: schumeea1
  • Description:

    The curtain rose on the 28^th annual Curtain Up! Friday night, marking the beginning of another great season of theater in Buffalo. The evening began with a cocktail hour in the historic Shea’s Performing Arts Center’s Grand Lobby, followed by dinner on the stage before patrons dispersed to fifteen local theaters for the official beginning of the 2009 season. Afterward, Buffalo’s party scene commenced on Main Street as the theater district exploded with dancing in the streets, live music, food and crafts vendors, and plenty of revelry for theater people and theater-lovers alike.

     

    “We’ve been coming to Curtain Up! For five years now,” said Sharon Wood, who started coming after work at a downtown hotel. “It’s our annual girl’s night out, and we wouldn’t miss it!” Wood and her six friends hung out at the Bijou Grill’s outdoor cocktail tables, taking in the four different stages within listening distance.

     

    While the opening cocktail hour was all ball gowns and tuxedoes, the after party proudly flaunted the diverse appeal Buffalo’s theater scene has always boasted. Teenagers in jeans and hoodies intermingled with elderly women in beaded gowns, adult couples in cocktail attire and even a few revelers in costume.

     

    “I wasn’t really sure what to expect,” confessed Chelsey Horwood, a pastry chef at Delish on Elmwood selling her wares outside Shea’s marquee entrance. “I’ve never been before, and I heard people get pretty into it. There’s definitely some really dressy people, but it’s not like anyone would feel uncomfortable in jeans and sneakers.”

     

    With the wealth of entertainment lining the street, it would be hard to believe anyone could feel uncomfortable at this party. A fire-eater strolled up and down the sidewalk, casually swallowing flames while a man in a dapper boater hat jitterbugged with a lady in a sparkly gold shirt in front of a band called “Time Pirates.” A man with a kermit-like puppet conversed easily with the crowd while a magician did card tricks on tables for anyone who would watch.

     
    

    Down the street and across the way, Marcella’s brought its famous drag show outside with several shows throughout the evening. Music wafted from at least four different directions, with nine different acts including local jazz fusion favorites, Babik, the Kindo Duo, Zydeco with Lee Ron and the Latin Jazz Project.

     

    Shea’s rolled out the red carpet for cocktails under the marquee, a posh outdoor bar encouraging patrons to meander from their luxe lobby into the outdoor festivities. Couples danced in the streets until police warned them of oncoming trains, then bogeyed right back as soon as the danger had passed.

     

    Despite a slight drizzle late in the evening, the festivities roared on until after 1am, when many partygoers continued the fun at the appropriately-named Encore down the street or one of the “Chip Strip” locations.

     

    “One thing’s for sure,” said Tony Rizzo of Buffalo as he stepped aside to let a drag queen and a puppet master past,  “Anyone who says Buffalo is dead is fooling themselves. If this party is any indication of how the year is going to go around here, I think we’re going to be okay.”

     

    As the street cleaners began to sweep up the debris and the last night owls trickled home, Shea’s marquee stood sentinel like a benevolent grandfather, its lights burning calmly over a settling city. As the curtains closed on the season opener, one thing seemed certain: it’s going to be quite a year.

     

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  • 1 year ago
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• Catwalk for Charity Catwalk for Charity

  • From: schumeea1
  • Description:

    The fourth annual Catwalk for Charity to benefit Ryan Miller’s Steadfast Foundation took the Town Ballroom back to the nifty fifties Sunday night. "Sock hoppers," "daddy-o’s" and "hep cats" cooled their jets and jived the night away with the Steadfast “Rebels for a Cause.”

    “We wanted something people could really get into,” Ryan Miller explained. “With something as popular as the fifties style, music, and culture, people can get involved, instead of feeling like they’re just spectators.” Why did they go from last year’s Roaring 20’s theme to the Nifty Fifties for the fourth installment? “The thirties and forties are sort of downers,” Miller said with a laugh. “The Great Depression, World Wars. . . we didn’t need to get into that. People like to have a good time, and the fifties are a lot of fun.” 

    The Catwalk for Charity is always a “hip bash” with live music, playful banter by emcee Janet Snyder of Kiss 98.5, both silent and live auctions and the highlight, a fashion show by the Buffalo Sabres and friends. The show included vintage fashions from the fifties and today’s hottest styles from Miller’s own store, the Refinery. Rick Jeanneret, long-time Sabres announcer even made a special appearance in a poodle skirt and wig, shaking his stuff at the end of the runway as a special surprise for the crowd.

    Organizer Therese Forton-Barnes shed some light on the unique atmosphere of the Catwalk: “We offer things nobody else does. Our auction items, like a photo with Ryan in the net, designing your own cap at New Era, dinner with the players, and the fun themed atmosphere, that’s something you can’t get anywhere else,” she said.

    The Catwalk for Charity is always a “flip joint” and the Town Ballroom’s classy décor only adds to the appeal. With Audrey Hepburn, Marilyn Monroe, Bettie Page, and Grease character look-alikes at every turn, it’s hard not to get into the spirit of things.

    A Frank Sinatra crooner set the stage early in the evening, his smooth styles blending perfectly with vintage starburst light fixtures, the rhythmic shake of martini mixers, luxe velvet-draped stage, and of course, a few brave jitterbugs tickling the dance floor. As the evening heated up, the sounds of Elvis and the Grease soundtrack took over, and the hand-jive gave way to fancy footwork and faster beats.

    The Catwalk for Charity never fails to impress, and this year was no exception, despite a slightly rushed planning season for Forton-Barnes and her dedicated committee. “Ryan is projected for consideration for the Olympics, and the team has two weeks off in February, when we would usually hold the Catwalk,” she said. “We got the yearly events schedule in late July, and found out then the only date was November 8th.” How did she pull it off? “I don’t sleep much,” she said with a smile.

    Looking around at the packed ballroom, one would think all that hard work certainly paid off. “It’s a good cause, and a great party,” as Miller put it. The Sabres players, family, friends and fans jump, jived and jammed the night away and raised money for cancer research. It doesn’t get much cooler than that.

    Want more photos? Check out:Catwalk for Charity IV

     

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  • 10 months ago
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• FC Buffalo Debuts, Falls to Ad FC Buffalo Debuts, Falls to Admirals

  • From: Tsuj10
  • Description:

    Two first half goals helped the Erie Admirals coast past National Premier Soccer League debutant FC Buffalo, 3-0.  Admirals’ striker Conor Meade, the ‘Man of the Match,’ played a role in all three goals, assisting the first and finishing the final two. 

    
    

    The home match at Robert E. Rich All-High Stadium marked the Blitzers’ inaugural contest, while Erie, the NPSL runner-up a year ago, sustained its high level of play despite seventeen new faces on the roster.

     

    Midfielder Afrim Latifi put Erie on the scoreboard in the 37^th minute, snapping home a header off Meade’s out-swinging cross from the right wing.  One minute before halftime, Meade doubled the lead.

     

    The former Blarney United FC forward, who moved from Ireland to the United States a fortnight ago, was the beneficiary of clever midfield interplay between David Buckenheimer and Ashley Young.  A short diagonal pass from Buckenheimer sent Meade one-on-one with FC Buffalo goalie Dan Panaro, and the striker finished coolly with a low drive.

     

    “As a coach you always talk about the first five minutes and last five minutes of each half,” Blitzer head coach Jim Hesch said. “[The goal] is tough to deal with, and it’s definitely heartbreaking.”

     

    Until Meade’s first tally seconds before the intermission, the expansion team felt confident that it could compete against the team that fell to the Sonoma County Sol in last year’s final. 

    

    “We were at a state where we could deal definitely with a one goal deficit, but with two, you’re looking at a bigger mountain to climb,” FC Buffalo defensive midfielder Scott Zorn admitted.

     

    Meade completed his brace in the 72^nd minute after Hesch pushed more Blitzers forward.  On the counter-attack, Afrim Latifi dribbled into space and slipped a through-ball into the Irish striker’s path.  The offside flag stayed down, and Meade picked out the lower right corner, rendering Panaro helpless.

     

    “It’s all about winning,” Hesch said, “and when it’s not going your way, you have to start pushing players forward.”

     

    Despite the shutout, the Blitzers were not completely bereft of scoring chances.  Defender Jason Gaylord, whose timely tackling saved FC Buffalo on several occasions, was wrong-footed on a golden opportunity in the six yard box early in the second half, while Mike Unwin created chances in the 76^th and 81^st minutes.  Still, relatively-untroubled Admirals’ keeper Danny Mudd registered the clean sheet.

     

    Against a worthy opponent, Coach Jim Hesch wasn’t too dissatisfied with the loss.  “It was a real nice crowd, but it’s too bad the result didn’t come our way.  Overall for the first day though, [there’s] not too many complaints.”

     

    Zorn echoed his coach’s sentiments, stating, “Nick [Mendola, the club’s part-owner] did a great job.  There were a good amount of people here (200), and I’m disappointed we couldn’t come away with a win.”

     

    The Blitzers will take on the New Jersey Blaze at All-High Stadium (just behind Bennett High School) next Sunday at 3pm.

     

    Squads:

     

    Erie Admirals: Mudd, Clement, Carr, Brookfield, Duggan, Young, Chate, Fahandezh, Buckenheimer, Latifi, Meade.  Subs used: Ott, Washek, Beattie, Blythe.

     

    FC Buffalo: Panaro, Gaylord, Johnson, Larracuente, Steinmetz, Wilson, Zorn, Stucynski, Stevens, Unwin, Tiedt.  Subs used: Grabowski, Catchpole, Stern, Williams, Westerholt.

     

    (Photos compliments of Steve Woolsey, FC Buffalo Season Ticket Holder)

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  • 4 months ago
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• Lewiston Artists Shine at Toas Lewiston Artists Shine at Toast & Jam Open Mic Night

  • From: dmodica
  • Description:

    On Monday, The Lewiston Council on the Arts held its first “Toast & Jam Open Mic Night” of the year at The Brickyard Pub in Lewiston. Artists from as far as Portageville, NY arrived to share their musical abilities with a sizeable crowd full of spirit and support.

    In its eleventh year, this six-week series of open mic entertainment welcomes artists of all kinds to display their talent in a pleasant and friendly atmosphere. Singers, poets, comics, dancers, performance artists and actors of all ages are able to enjoy a moment in the spotlight at “Toast & Jam.” 

    Eva Nicklas, the Artistic Director for The Lewiston Council on the Arts, helped to start “Toast & Jam” eleven years ago and shared some insight about the event’s beginning. “We realized that there was a lot of local talent that needed to be spotlighted. We have performers that have been coming for years and people in the area have really started to look forward to it. We love when we get new performers and welcome everyone to come and show off their talent.”

    Singer songwriter and Open Mic veteran Dale Campbell hosted the event, welcoming the audience and performers and starting the night off with a few country songs. Musicians also bravely performed rock, jazz and blues songs throughout the night that had everyone clapping and singing along.
    
    Solo performers and lively groups of musicians graced the stage with enjoyable original songs and covers of classics. Several of the participants welcomed each other to the stage during their performances to include some harmonizing duets in their sets and add some more fun to the show.
    
    Most of the participating musicians complemented their performances with acoustic or electric guitars but some wowed the crowd with instruments you don’t see everyday. A snare drum, autoharp, bongo and accordion were just a few interesting instruments that were incorporated into the night’s performance and they truly added to the performers’ acts.
    
    A highlight of the night was the energetic collaboration between a young fiddler and a spirited accordion player who met during the show and decided to play together. Kathryn Serianni, the Outreach Coordinator of the Council, expressed her pleasure during their performance stating, “This is just another great example of why Open Mic nights are so great. You have people playing together that have never met before and they put on a wonderful show!”
    
    The Brickyard will host “Toast & Jam” for the next five Mondays, running until March 22nd from 7-10 PM. Performers of all ages are welcomed and encouraged to come and spotlight their talents.
    
    For more information visit http://www.artcouncil.org/events/toastandjam.php

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  • 7 months ago
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• "Sweet Baby James" Rocks Klein "Sweet Baby James" Rocks Kleinhans

  • From: schumeea1
  • Description:

    You’ve got a friend in Bob Stillman. His “Sweet Baby James” music of James Taylor concert at Kleinhans Music Hall on Thursday showed not only can the Buffalo Philharmonic Orchestra rock, they draw a pretty good crowd to do it.

     

    “Sweet Baby James” carried the nearly-full house of Taylorheads through James Taylor’s breakout album in the first set, then conducted a greatest hits jam session throughout the second, culminating in that great link-arms-and-sing ballad, “You’ve Got a Friend.” While the crowd seemed unsure of how to handle themselves in the stately music hall suddenly filled with electric guitars and a full drum kit, a few brave souls clapped along to the catchier numbers, and gradually the audience seemed to relax. Yes folks, it’s okay to clap for the BPO. A cello is generally too heavy to throw anyway.

     

    “We’ve been doing this for almost a year now, and this is our first time playing with a symphony orchestra,” said Stillman halfway through his first set. “It’s kind of cool to have the full crew behind us.”

     

    Indeed, the full orchestra added a full-bodied, almost visual layer of sound to what could otherwise have been a fairly thin band. Where Stillman needed backup on the grand piano, the string section kicked in with lilting threads of melody behind him. Stephen Benson’s guitar riffs and Brian Cassier’s bass stylings needed little support, but the addition of reedy woodwinds and that big-band sound underneath certainly didn’t hurt. As for vocalist Connie James, her smooth, jazzy voice was practically made to pair up with a set of brass.

     

    When people think of the BPO, one thing usually pops into their minds: classical. They expect soft, soothing tones, swelling crescendos, forte and piano, Beethoven and Handel. All that is well and good, but the BPO is breaking out of that box and proving their worth not only as classical crasftsmen , but musical masters in all realms of the art. While this upcoming season includes the familiar classical offerings, the BPO also brings such diverse acts as Ben Folds, Charlie Chaplin, and music from the popular Harry Potter movies. Not a fan of Beethoven or Bach? Try on some Star Wars for size.

     

    “Sweet Baby James” demonstrated that not only can the BPO play popular music, but Buffalo audiences love it. The house was almost full, quite a feat for a Thursday night in busy early September. Despite a timid beginning, the crowd quickly warmed up to Stillman and his band, and by the end of the evening, the whole place “rockabye-d” off into the night. Not a bad beginning to what promises to be a season full of surprises.

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  • 1 year ago
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• Fine Wine and Sunshine Make Ev Fine Wine and Sunshine Make Event a Success

  • From: dmodica
  • Description:

    Artpark hosted the Niagara Wine Trail’s 1^st Annual Wine and Culinary Festival on Saturday, July 25 and Sunday, July 26. Ten wineries from the Niagara Wine Trail offered tastings of their premium wines and local restaurants from Lewiston provided delicious meals for reasonable prices. Live jazz musicians performed during the entire event, complementing the relaxed atmosphere.

     

    Marissa DeMonstoy was enchanted by the ambiance of the event immediately. “Artpark acts as a wonderful setting. The beautiful landscape and the enjoyable music set the mood for the festival and drew me in. I love that they have live music, it definitely enhances the event.”

     

    Tents were set up with cuisine from Casa Antica, Brickyard Pub and Bar, and Tin Pan Alley.  The Barker Chocolate Box offered delectable homemade fudge samples. Even sweeter was the beautiful weather, a rarity of late, which added to the day’s festivities and aided in attendees’ agreeable dispositions.

    

    Amanda Martinez was extremely pleased with the event, particularly the servers who distributed wine and food. “Everyone is very friendly and generous. You can tell that they know what they are talking about and I am thoroughly enjoying myself.”

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

    Visiting the area from Grand Rapids, Mich., Len Reil enjoyed the variety offered at the festival. “My wife and I go to many wine tasting events and it is wonderful to attend an event that offers food as well. It is so nice to have other vendors in between all the wine. It adds a little extra to the festival.”

     

    Jackie Connelly, owner of the Niagara Landing winery and member of the Niagara Wine Trail, has worked since early spring to help organize the successful event and is already looking towards next year’s festival. “The Buffalo Philharmonic and Artpark were very helpful in setting up this event and we were excited to work with both organizations. I am very pleased with the turnout today and the wonderful weather. We are definitely planning on having this event next year.”

                           

    For more information on this event go to http://www.niagarawinetrail.org/

     

     

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  • 1 year ago
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• The dudes abide - Lebowski Fes The dudes abide - Lebowski Fest 2010

  • From: MikeKamo
  • Description:

    The Cohen brothers film The Big Lebowski has a cult following similar to movies like Dazed & Confused or The Rocky Horror Picture Show. Die-hard fans can quote you every line from the film in their sleep and they tend to drink white Russians exclusively (with the exception of the occasional cold one every now and then). So what’s a Lebowski fan, also known as a Lebowski Achiever, to do in between random showings of the movie on Comedy Central and HBO?
    
    The Riviera Theatre in North Tonawanda has just the remedy: Lebowski Fest.
    
    “[The Fest] was an idea that my son and a couple of his friends had,” explains Riviera Theatre executive director Frank Cannata. “I had never seen it before and when I did I never thought it would be this big cult following. We did it last year and the [Buffalo News] Gusto put it on their front cover- we ended up with hundreds and hundreds of people, way beyond what we could possibly imagine.”
    
    The Riviera received a similar turn out this year, with a nearly packed house showing up to watch the Dude (or his Dudeness, which ever you prefer), Walter and Donny drink some cold ones and contemplate life with participating in their favorite past-time: bowling.
    
    “We’re expecting about 800 people this year,” said Cannata, whose Fest is similar to others all around the country. “We’re a bit more prepared this time- last year we went through about 35 gallons of milk for white Russians.” 35 gallons seems a bit much, but the general consensus of the evening was that the film was best viewed with the beverage. “Is there any other way to watch it?” remarked Lebowski enthusiast Sean Lampkin.
    
    The film follows Jeffery Lebowski a.k.a. The Dude (Jeff Bridges), an unemployed booze hound who loves to bowl. When some hit men mistake him as another, wealthier Jeffery Lebowski, the Dude finds himself in the middle of a plot full of ransom, dream sequences full of song and dance, white Russians and missing rugs that really tied the room together
    
    The Riviera’s doors opened up at 6:30 p.m. and fans flooded in from far and wide. “We came all the way from Rochester,” laughed one movie goer. “I wouldn’t miss the chance to see this movie on the big screen for anything.”
    
    Devotees were treated to a stocked bar with all the essentials, as well as live comedy from local comedians before the show started. At 8:00 p.m. the film was fired up to a barrage of cheers. The cheers continued when the Dude first made his appearance, and they continued when the rest of the main cast was introduced- especially when bowling phenom and sexual predator Jesus Quintana graced the screen.
    
    After the show, fans were able to go to the Tonawanda Bowling Center to roll for two hours of open bowling. “It was a great time,” said Lebowski fan Ben Moskal. “With the white Russians and open bowling after, it really made the Fest a fun experience. The Dude certainly would have abided.”
    
    Who knows what’s in store for the Riviera’s next Lebowski Fest, but you can be sure that fans from far and wide will not be out of their element.

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  • 8 months ago
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• Buffalo Bandits - Philadelphia Buffalo Bandits - Philadelphia Wings Live-blog

  • From: Tsuj10
  • Description:

    7:31 - What's up?  The Buffalo Bandits host the Philadelphia Wings tonight at HSBC Arena - two weeks ago, the Bandits throttled the Wings 13-11 in John Tavares return from a calf injury.  The NLL's all-time leading scorer tallied two goals and four assists in the win. 

    7:33 - Buffalo improved its record to 2-5 on the year, and the Wings are a game behind at 1-6.

    7:33 - Surprisingly, two of Buffalo's early season surprises are inactive tonight - Frank Resetarits and Kyle Clancy will not be on the floor tonight for Darris Kilgour's squad.  Mike Accursi is back in the lineup after missing the first match-up with Philly.

    7:34 - Angus Goodleaf, who relieved Kenny Montour and preserved the comeback against Philly, will start in goal tonight.

    7:41 - Philadelphia opens with the ball, but a violation turns it over to Buffalo.

    7:42 - Buffalo defenders Tom Montour and Clay Hillheads to the penalty box, and the Wings will have a two man advantage.

    7:43 - The Wings capitalize quickly on a quick shot from Drew Westervelt from 20 feet out in the middle of the floor.  1-0 Philly with 13:35 remaining in the first quarter.

    7:47 - John Tavares evens the score at one on a screen shot that fooled Brandon Miller, the Wings' goalie.  1-1 with 12:07 left in the first.

    7:48 - With a quick response, Josh Sims splits the wickets of Goodleaf to put the Wings back in front.  2-1 with 9:45 left in the first.  A shot that Angus should have corraled, but the Buffalo D didn't close out Sims quickly enough either. 

    7:49 - Buffalo will head again to the power play!

    7:53 - Not the sharpest two minutes from the Bandits we've seen - an errant shot by Accursi and a Steenhuis turnover were the best threat Buffalo could mount.

    7:54 - Angus Goodleaf pounces out of his net to cut down the angle on Bob McGlone's shot from 10 feet out.  Looks like the backup netminder is getting into the flow of the game after allowing a soft goal early. 

    7:55 - Athletic attempt by Steenhuis is denied by Miller, quieting the crowd.

    7:56 - Punishing check by Brett Bucktooth isn't whistled, but Steve Priolo now heads to the sin-bin to serve an illegal substitution minor; that's the third penalty on Buffalo in the game's first ten minutes.  Darris Kilgour wants his team to eliminate the unnecessary penalties that have haunted them early in the season.

    7:59 - Kyle Wailes hauls in a cross-field pass from Westervelt and beats Goodleaf to the near post as the Bandit goalie could not move across his crease in-time.  3-1 Philadelphia.

    
    

    8:00 - Philadelphia pushes the lead to three, as Dave Mitchell scores on a pretty individual effort in which he outmuscled two Buffalo defenders and a beat Goodleaf.  4-1 Wings with 3:14 left in the first.

    8:02 - Too-many-men penalty on Philadelphia will give the Bandits a chance to claw their way back into contention.  Remember, Buffalo trailed 5-0 two weeks ago before surging back to defeat the Wings.

    8:03 - A quick pass from Roger Vyse to Kevin Dostie in front of the Philly goalie gives the Buffalo forward space to place the ball over Miller's left shoulder to cut the lead to two.  Dostie from Vyse and Tavares brings the score to 4-2 Wings in the final minute of the first.

    We're now late in the 2nd quarter - sorry for the failure to update - both the HSBC wi-fi and the myBuffalo site are not functioning smoothly (read: barely at all).

    8:25 - Buffalo has pulled within 7-6 after two John Tavares goals and one from Billy Dee Smith kept the Bandits from collapsing.

    8:27 - 3:34 left in the half; Buffalo has locked down a bit defensively - the Bandits are still having trouble keeping pace with Drew Westervelt.  Tavares has put the team on his shoulders offensively, while Kevin Dostie has elevated his level of play in the second 15 minutes.

    8:29 - The last two goals by the home team - which brought them back from a 7-4 deficit - have been pretty.  First, a behind-the-back pass from Roger Vyse forced a Wing defender to hesitate in rotation, providing the split-second Dostie needed to release his shot cleanly.

    8:30 - A smart stick-check resulted in a loose ball win and a breakaway for Billy Dee Smith, who drilled the ball past Miller before two defenders could catch up to him.  Smith is a huge dude when you stand next to him, and he needs to be aggressive today against 6'5 Drew Westervelt and 6'4 Mat Giles.

    -------------------------------------------------End of first half, 7-6 Philadelphia------------------------------------

    8:36 - Promising second quarter from the Bandits, as they calmed down a tightened up some defensively after conceding two goals in the first 30 seconds of the period.  The flood gates could have opened, but John Tavares answered back quickly with two of his own - it's clear that Buffalo sorely misses the scoring touches of Frank Resetarits and Kyle Clancy, both of whom are inactive.

    8:38 - Kevin Dostie has continued to show flashes of offensive ability, while Roger Vyse has been frustratingly inconsistent - threading tough passes or dropping a very catchable ball.  Darris Kilgour's blood pressure is suffering because of it.

    8:42 - Hopefully the connection/website will work more effectively in the second half so you can follow the game without these occasional hiccups or ten minute absences.

    8:43 - Westervelt and Giles, Philly's two towering forwards, have each scored twice, while JT has three goals and Dostie has two for Buffalo.  Four minors against Philly, and only three against Buffalo.  The shots are nearly deadlocked - Buffalo has 27 on net, while Philly has peppered Goodleaf with 28.

    

    8:50 - 90 seconds away from the start of the second half - some news from Andrew Kulyk of Artvoice - Clancy and Greenhalgh are healthy scratches for Buffalo, while Resetarits and Montour are missing today's contest due to injury.

    8:51 - Philadelphia is dominating the face-off category, winning 13 of the first 16 - and those extra possessions have been crucial thus far.  The Bandits just have no answer in the center circle.

    8:52 - Ian Llord commits a five-minute major for high-sticking, drawing a groan from the home crowd and putting Buffalo in an early second half hole.

    8:53 - Westervelt rips a shot from near the restraining line that Goodleaf ducked away from - the ball flashed into the net for a 8-6 Philly lead.

    8:54 - Tommy Montour answers back quickly, beating Brandon Miller to a loose ball and slinging the ball into the open net - Miller had over-committed 15 feet out of his net.  Assist to Angus Goodleaf, and that's about the only positive thing the reserve goalie has done today.

    8:55- The score-keeper is getting a work out here, as Dave Mitchell fools Goodleaf to push the margin back to two.  9-7 Philly with 12:30 left in the 3rd.

    8:57 - 10-7 now with 11:52 left in the 3rd, as Geoff Snider caps off a dive into the Buffalo crease with a shot over Goodleaf's left shoulder.  That would have been a difficult save for the Buffalo net-minder, as two Bandit defenders couldn't keep Snider from finding great scoring position in front of the cage.

    8:59 - Kyle Sweeney dispossesses John Tavares at midfield and races in on a two-on-one break and elects to fire a shot himself.  Goodleaf stops the point-blank try with his pads, keeping the deficit at three.

    9:01 - 38-29 is the shots on goal advantage for the visiting Wings - 10-2 in the 3rd quarter so far.  Aside from Tommy Montour's break-away goal, Buffalo has failed to generate any promising scoring opportunities in a halfcourt offensive set.

    9:04 - Wailes guns a shot wide from deep as the shot clock had wound down to 6.

    

    9:06 - Tom Montour's rocket on the breakaway caroms off the woodwork, as Brandon Miller breathes a sigh of relief.  On an earlier attempt, Tavares tried to flip a pass to Corbeil, but the second round pick had it stripped away.  Buffalo has only scored once in the third quarter - there's 4:35 left and the orange and black trail 10-7.

    9:10 - Did you know John Travares is 42 years old?

    9:11 - The Wings obviously don't care, as Philly's Mike Ward bounces home his first goal of the season on a fast-break off a Roger Vyse turnover.  11-7 Philly with 3:45 left in the third, and many fans shuffle out to the concession stands for a bite to eat; certainly a more exciting venture than watching the stagnant Buffalo attack right now.

    9:12 - Vyse, not pleased with that comment, streaks down the middle of the offensive zone and takes a feed from Mike Accursi before depositing his shot past the Philly goalie.  See, it just took a little blogger-prodding to get production.  11-8 Wings with 2:30 left in the third.  Great dish by Accursi.

    9:18 - With the clock winding down in the third, Bill McGlone shields his way to the net from the right corner and places the ball past Goodleaf from in close.  After an officials' review, the goal stands, and the Bandits will start the fourth down four goals.

    ------------------------------------------------End of Third Quarter, 12-8 Wings------------------------------------

    9:19 - Per usual, the Wings win the face-off to start the quarter, and then quickly beat the Buffalo goaltender before the goal is denied due to a crease violation.  Lucky break there for Buffalo - remember the Bandits gave up two goals in the first 30 seconds of the third quarter.  Philly Coach Dave Huntley has thrown the metaphorical red flag onto the field to challenge the call.

    9:21 - No goal.

    

    9:22 - Angus Goodleaf has an abnormally large dome, and this helps in mightily between the pipes.

    9:24 - John Tavares fights back for the Bandits, and his blast from between the face-off circles flies past Miller, who is too slow to react to a shot that was destined for the upper left corner.  12-9 Wings wit 13:15 left in the game.

    9:25 - It's a game!  Kevin Dostie uses his defender to screen Miller on a shot, and the ball screams through the goalie's five-hole to bring the Bandits within 2.  12-10 with 11:45 left.  The crowd is loving this rally!

    9:27 - A good check by defender Joe Smith wins the ball back for Buffalo, but Mark Steenhuis' behind the back shot trickles wide of the goal.  Philly ball again, and the tension mounts.

    9:28 - Goodleaf kicks a shot away, but the Wings are first to the loose ball.  A penalty has been called on Buffalo; Ian Llord doesn't agree whatsoever.

    9:29 - Former Bandit Rich Kilgour, who was voted into the NLL Hall of Fame last week, draws an ovation from the Buffalo fans during a timeout.

    9:30 - It turns out the discussion above was over possession of the ball - not a penalty.  Philly starts with its third straight shot-clock.  Clay Hill scoops up a loose ball for Buffalo, ending almost two straight minutes of Wings' offense.

    9:33 - Tom Montour can't release a shot smoothly in close on Miller, and two long-distance efforts from Steenhuis go awry.  7:20 left.

    9:34 - A great scoring chance for Buffalo isn't finished off, as Brandon Miller stoned Mike Accursi from 15 feet with his blocker.  Good loose ball win by Accursi goes for naught as his pass sails over a teammate, igniting a breakaway for Philly.  The Wings' attacker loses possession however, and both offenses are struggling late in the game.

    9:36 - 13-10 Wings as the explosive Drew Westervelt rises over Goodleaf and finishes resoundingly for Philly.  His third of the night comes with 4:25 left in the game, stalling Buffalo's comeback attempt.

    9:38 - Dave Mitchell slips in alone on Goodleaf on a nice pass from Wailes - Mitchell makes no mistake in-close by slinging a shot over Goodleaf's right shoulder.  14-10 Philadelphia with 2:45 left, the fans are starting to make their way to the exits.

    9:42 - Mike Accursi gets one back for the Bandits - Roger Vyse stole the ball from a Wings' defender, hit Accursi with a pass in front, and after two shot fakes, the Bandit forward whipped a shot over Miller's shoulder.  Let's hope the Canadians don't do that tomorrow at 3pm.

    9:43 - The fans remaining are solely here for the music - 'Born in the USA' by Bruce Springsteen blares on the HSBC Arena sound system.  14-11 Wings with 1:15 left.

    9:45 - Rubbing salt in the wound, Mat Giles gets his third of the night on the two man advantage after penalties on Llord and Goodleaf.  Chants of 'pull the goalie' rain down on Goodleaf, who has been less than stellar tonight.

    -------------------------------------------------End of Game, 15-11 Philadelphia----------------------------------------

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  • 7 months ago
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• Nu gets to know Jericka A. Dun Nu gets to know Jericka A. Duncan

  • From: heathb
  • Description:

     

    On Tuesday, Jericka A. Duncan, WIVB news 4 reporter, stopped by Niagara University for a presentation on “The Future of Television News.” For those of you who don’t know Duncan, she joined channel 4 in August of 2007 as an anchor, reporter, and producer. Duncan takes pride on believing that Buffalo is a “city of good neighbors,” but after realizing she was no longer in Buffalo, she added that “so is Niagara Falls!”

     Duncan’s presentation focused on how today’s journalist have to “do more for less,” by taking pay cuts and learning skills they wouldn’t normally be required to do. Although Duncan didn’t seem too fond of the idea of “VJs” or video journalist, who do both the reporting and video of their stories, she said that eventually it would happen at WIVB. 

     

    The best part of the presentation however was the Q&A, here are some highlights:

    

     

    What’s your most memorable story?

    “Flight 3407 sticks out immediately. Such a dark day for everyone” Side note: Duncan found out about the crash on the news (WIVB of course), as she was packing to leave for New York City. 

     

    Do you think you are objective when it comes to your reporting?

    “ I do best to keep out of the story--I’m not a personality!”

     

    What historical event do you wish you could have covered?

    “The inauguration (of Obama) in Washington DC—wish I could have been a VJ that day” 

     

    What do you see in the future for your career? 

    “I’ve always said I’m not trying to be 70 years old doing this!”

     

    Do you have any other goals you want to accomplish?

    “The camera is rolling so I don’t know if I should be telling you this—you know I love my job!” Later Duncan admitted that she would “like to be a international correspondent one day”

     

    Let’s talk Benjamin’s, what’s your salary like?

    Most start out around 34,000 “which is still not a lot, but it’s less degrading then 18,000 or 19,000” which is what she started out with in the first few years of her career in Elmira. 

     

    In general how do you feel about the news?

    Duncan says a lot of things on TV “aren’t newsworthy, take a look at balloon boy”. “It comes down to what people are talking about.” “Some things I see on our station, I’m like why did they have to do that? It can be embarrassing”

     

    Is there anything you don’t like about your job?

    “Time”—“and not gonna lie being out in the cold for 3 to 4 hours smiling and saying the roads are slippery and it’s cold when it’s 5 am and I’d rather be sleeping”

     

     Have you ever missed a deadline?

    “Yes but it rarely happens it’s funny because it feels like it’s going to happen a lot.” 

     

    Nationally what network would you want to work for?

    Duncan says she honestly has no preference but admits, “I’m not like ‘no I don’t want that job at NBC’ ” I’d be like ‘yall wanna hire me?”

     

    Got any funny stories?

    Jericka says she laughs a lot at things that happen. During the winter Jericka has had her share of slips and spills, luckily (knock on wood) never live on the air. But she says, “Mistakes happen you just have to get over it.” “ Just yesterday I was using a quarter as a prop and I said, it all starts with "toin tost” instead of coin toss. 

     

    I really enjoyed Jericka’s presentation. Jericka Duncan is a refreshing journalist, and is in no way what you’d expect. She was funny, honest, and did I mention stylish! But seriously—her presentation was very eye-opening and a bit scary…jobs are diminishing people! But like Duncan said, if you like the fundamentals of journalism, then you should do it.

     

    -Heather Backlas

    Intern for Buffalo.com

    Niagara University 

     

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  • 11 months ago
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• Williamsville South Stomps Swe Williamsville South Stomps Sweet Home 68-52

  • From: Tsuj10
  • Description:

     

    Home court advantage prevailed Friday night in a contest between two WNY ranked large schools, as Williamsville South’s balanced offense proved too strong for overmatched Sweet Home in a 68-52 victory. 

    

    Phil Stasiak paced the Billies in scoring with 20 points, while senior point guard Mark Coppola added 17 and seven dimes.  In his first start of the season, lanky junior center Erik Hansen grabbed 15 rebounds, creating several extra possessions.

     

    Williamsville South led the entire way – the Billies started the game on a 9-1 run - keyed by two Coppola lay-ups and an open three from Hansen.  The Panthers, however, trimmed the deficit to 26-25 and kept the score within five at halftime.  A nine point third quarter in which Sweet Home shot under 30% from the floor proved costly, and the victors never conceded their double-digit lead in the fourth quarter.  Junior forward Joe Licata, also the Billies’ standout football QB, canned three of his four treys in the second half, receiving many open looks after drive-and-dishes from Coppola and kick-outs from do-it-all forward Kevin O’Connell.

     

    Stasiak’s game has markedly improved since last year’s sectional trip - he seems far less tentative and more confident driving towards the basket.  The Billies’ engine, Coppola, a varsity player since 8^th grade, deserves credit for his teammate’s development as well.  The diminutive point guard splits double-teams with ease, displays excellent court vision, and makes acrobatic, left-handed lay-ups look second-nature.  If Coppola can remain poised and limit his turnovers, Williamsville South will again be a tough Class A-1 foe in the sectional tournament at Buffalo State College. 

     

    Sweet Home’s shifty point guard Keron Briggs led all scorers with 20, while D.J. Nettles added 10 points despite picking up his fourth foul late in the third quarter.  Briggs kept the Panthers in contention through twenty minutes of action, thieving several passes and notching fast-break lay-ins.  Nettles, the All-WNY football cornerback, expended most of his energy on the defensive end trying to slow Stasiak and Licata in addition to battling Hansen on the glass.  Due to foul trouble, the senior forward appeared reluctant to attack the basket, and instead settled for 10-to-15-foot jumpers; the mid-range game is not his forte.

    

    South, the 8^th ranked large school entering the match, improves to 10-3 on the season, while Sweet Home (AA) drops to 10-3.  The two teams will square-off again this Friday at Sweet Home in a ‘Coaches vs. Cancer’ show-case game at 7:30pm.

    Several Videos from the game

     

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  • 7 months ago
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• Niagara University radio hosts Niagara University radio hosts fundraiser

  • From: MikeKamo
  • Description:

    “Mix and More.” That is the motto of WNIA, the student-run radio station at Niagara  University. On Wednesday, the station and its DJs showed NU students and faculty just how much more the station is willing to give during a CD sale held on campus, located just inside the Gallagher Center.
    
    Prospective buyers were able to peruse through thousands of CDs, most of which dated back to the mid-to-late 1990s and early 2000s. Promotional albums, singles and full records alike, a mere $2.00 allowed the shopper to take home any CD of their choice. Ranging from the Deftones to Louis Armstrong to Clutch, not to mention many more obscure bands, the sale offered the Niagara community a chance to take home great music at an even better price.
    
    So was there a problem with outdated music? “There were a lot of unknown bands and artists,” explained Catherine Mason, current promotions and business manager of WNIA. “But I think we found a lot of good stuff that will work for [the students] and open their musical horizons.” Geoff Redick, WNIA General Manager, adds that “it was a great way to get indy-music and some more well known music out to the public.”
    
    The station, which achieved somewhat of a revival in the past two semesters, is now on a completely different format since the days of Niagara’s old radio station, WRNU. “We’ve gone digital, so we no longer needed the old CDs and records,” said Mason.
    
    Like many college stations of the pre-digital age, WRNU dealt exclusively with CDs, vinyl records and cassettes. But since the dawn of the era that is the digital age, all of their music formats became obsolete, hence the need to get rid of all the back stock of outdated, non-digital systems that WNIA absorbed.
    
    And college radio isn’t the only type of radio following this trend; most radio stations now work on a completely digital format.
    
    On top of being more convenient (a simple mouse click is all it takes to play a song, which means no more fumbling for CDs or bulky vinyls), digital is less costly and easier to use. “We’re all technology based students now, so it makes the process a lot easier to teach and remember,” remarked Mason.
    
    One of the upsides to the sale was that, because all the CDs sold were given to the old WRNU station, Wednesday’s sale carried out by WNIA was all profit. All revenue generated from the sale will go towards new equipment for the DJs and any equipment repairs needed down the road.
    
    With the success of the CD sale, WNIA is also hosting a vinyl record sale on Saturday from 9-2 in front of the Gallagher Center on NU’s campus (weather permitting- rain will cause the sale to move indoors, to the lower level of the Gallagher Center). Records will sell for $3.00 a piece and, if the buyer doesn't want to listen to the records or is without aturntable, buyers can always make use of them as wall decorations.
    
    Despite not having a frequency, WNIA streams live over the internet at wniaradio.com, or on campus television, channel 20.

     

     

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  • 1 year ago
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• BPO Ode to Joy Opening Gala a BPO Ode to Joy Opening Gala a Glorious Success

  • From: schumeea1
  • Description:

    The Buffalo Philharmonic Orchestra opened its 74th season at Kleinhan’s with a bang, black tuxedoes, Beethoven and all. The Opening Night: Ode to Joy began with a black-tie evening including cocktails and hors d’ouevres in the lobby followed by a sit-down dinner in the Mary Seton room before the concert. Guests milled around sipping drinks and nibbling on cheese, crackers and fruit while sharply-pressed waiters stood at attention nearby.

    The sweeping architectural lines of the hall draped over the crowd, its crisp, light stairways and soft lighting creating a pleasing contrast with the mostly black-attired clientele. Laughter echoed softly around the room, intermingling with the tinkle of ice, low buzz of conversation and the gentle streams of strings from the ensemble onstage in the dining room.

    The elegantly-decorated Mary Seton room transformed the gala dinner into an ethereal experience with giant floating black and white balloon clusters over every table, sharp, crisp flowers intermingling with shining glassware and tuxedo-like napkin fans. Well-dressed attendees aside, the Gala dinner exuded elegance before the event even began, setting the tone for an evening to remember.

    What an evening it was. The hall filled quickly as excited patrons filled the lobby, eagerly anticipating the nearly sold-out show. The first act welcomed guest violinists Gil Shaham and his wife Adele Anthony. Shaham played Opus 25 from the famous “Carmen” before Anthony joined him on a Bach concerto. From the moment Shaham took the stage, a murmur went through the crowd in expectation of a breathtaking show. It seemed the entire hall held its breath as Shaham tickled his instrument through the lines, running through complicated runs and sweeping largos with a style that was as beautiful to watch as it was pleasing to the ear. The audience leapt to its feet as he finished, a rare display of uncontrolled approval for a truly masterful performance.

    The magic continued when Adele Anthony joined her husband on the Bach Concerto, bringing her own gentler, more feminine signature to the piece. The pair ran the audience through exhausting paces with the first “Vivace” movement before letting it relax through the largo and charging into the allegro to finish. Two violins can often compete with one another, but Anthony and Shaham were clearly perfectly atuned to each other’s style and managed to weave a complicated musical tapestry that left the audience almost dizzy with delight. After a rousing Sarasate encore, the pair left the stage to the orchestra and the chorus and released their captive audience to a much-needed recuperation intermission.

    Even the most musically disinclined could recognize the “Ode to Joy” from Beethoven’s 9th Symphony, and the majestic, powerful sounds it thrusts through the air. From JoAnn Falletta’s frenetic dance-like conducting style to the sweeping bows of the violins, to the vocal strength of soloists Christina Nassif, Jeniece Golbourne, Israel Lozano and Kevin Deas, the second half took Kleinhan’s around the throat and didn’t let go.

    Beethoven’s 9th is a strong piece in itself, but when performed by an ensemble with the musical muscle and delicate nuances of the BPO, it’s magical. The orchestra held its own with aplomb in the first three movements, gently prepping the room for the chorus’ entrance. Even before they began, when the singers rose and draped around the back of the stage, the visual effect was breathtaking. Once the abrasive, throaty sounds of Beethoven’s most famous piece took wing, the hall filled with a wave of sound that could not have left a single audience member unaffected.

    As the last notes faded away,  the soloists took the stage hand-in-hand with JoAnn Falletta. Their beaming smiles carried all the way to the back of the top balcony. This concert will not be soon forgotten. The opulent gala beginning and breathtaking Beethoven finish could easily be called the musical party of the year. And as far as season openers are concerned, the BPO puts on quite a show.

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  • 11 months ago
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• The Bunny The Bear: Ferocious The Bunny The Bear: Ferocious Live

  • From: MikeKamo
  • Description:

    “So what genre would you put yourself into?” I asked The Bunny, one-of-two lead singers of local band The Bunny The Bear. “Reverse-cowgirl-core,” he fired back at me, seemingly annoyed by the question.

    But while he took my question as a joke, he was actually being truthful in a way: it’s really impossible to stick TBTB in a genre. They’re metal. They’re hardcore. They’re rock. They’re a bit emo, and everything else in between.

    The Bunny and The Bear, who get their names from the masks they wear on stage, are responsible for the vocals of the band, with The Bunny screaming and The Bear singing; they each play their parts well. One of the draws of TBTB is that the majority of its songs include screaming, an essential part to hardcore and metal music, and singing, which can draw the rocker crowd. And believe me when I say it, The Bunny can SCREAM and The Bear can SING.

    The rest of the group consists of Brian Dietz on drums, Chris “Chiggs” Cole on rhythm guitar, Derek Anthony on bass guitar, and Erik Kogut on lead guitar; The Bunny does all of the keyboard and piano arrangement on the songs.

    I caught the band at a recent show at The Moose Lodge in North Tonawanda, a relatively small and sweltering venue for a rock show. The headline act of the show, TBTB was joined by Noah’s Ark, Weapon X, and Dead by Dawn, all local metal and rock bands. The crowd was into the other groups, but it was clear who they all came to see.

    “We haven’t played in two months,” explained Dietz on the June 26 show. “This is the first show that will start our mini-tour, which is going through Pennsylvania and down to Virginia Beach.” “This is our first show back, so I’m excited to just get up there and start playing again,” added Chiggs.

    To make clear why the group is so appealing, I went to the TBTB fans. “They have such a refreshing sound, breaking the mold for what popular music is in America today,” commented rock-music buff Nick Wisniewski. “Everyone is sick of these cookie cutter rock groups with no talent - you can really tell that TBTB is full of talented guys that love what they’re doing. People can get into that no matter what they listen to.”

    The talent of the group is unquestionable if you’ve heard its music- seeing the band live boosts its image ten-fold.

    I can’t really explain the show in words. I left absolutely drenched in sweat and amazed at how good a band can be in person. The energy of the group was so high, it was almost scary. The Bunny was on the stage for a total of maybe ten seconds - he was manic, spending the rest of the time jumping every which way, sprawling across the floor, and running out in to the crowd in an attempt to get the fans fired up, all the while making them a part of the show.

    “They have a high energy sound, but where they really explode is in person,” explained TBTB junkie Tom Pearce. “They put on one of the best live shows I’ve ever seen; full of energy and they always seem to take it up a notch on stage.”

    If you have the chance, head to the next TBTB show on July 30th at Positive Approach on Elmwood- a talented group like this won’t stay local for long.

    For more The Bunny The Bear, checkout their myspace page right here

    The video below is for the TBTB single April 11

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  • 3 months ago
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• JOURNEY STILL HAVE IT - LIVE C JOURNEY STILL HAVE IT - LIVE CONCERT REVIEW

  • From: fluxystar
  • Description:

    Journey–a band that has helped sculpt music and influence bands for three decades–is still continuing down the path of their own musical ‘journey.’ The band rolled into the grounds of Darien Lake Performing Arts Center Saturday evening to play their hits and then some.
    
    Led by new lead singer Arnel Pineda, Journey continues to tour in support of last year's Revelation, a triple-disc album package that features a set of eleven re-recorded songs featuring Pineda's vocals, a collection of new material and a DVD of the bands's March 2008 performance at Planet Hollywood in Las Vegas.
    
    Promptly at 8pm, the P.A.C stage became illuminated with bright blue, waving lights and the crowd (which ranged from young teens around the age of 14 (I’m still not sure they really even know who Journey is) to men and women in their 50s) swelled in screaming anticipation. An opening guitar riff of “Separate Ways” began the night of musical beauty.
    
    Pineda–a cover band front-man–was discovered by guitarist Neal Schon while surfing YouTube, replaced former singer Jeff Scott Soto in late 2007. Soto had previously replaced the band's previous lead singer, Steve Augeri in 2006. (Augeri replaced original singer, Steve Perry when he left the band for the second time in the 90s.)
    
    I have to admit, going into the show I was a bit apprehensive to see Journey with Pineda. Steve Perry is a magnificent; one of the best singers out there. However, once I heard Arnel sing, I along with many, were floored. Pineda can really sing!–Almost identically to Perry–from the tremulous vibrato of  “Lights” to the undulation of the monumental “Wheel in the Sky”–this guy was on fire!
    
    Drummer Dean Castronovo also lended a helping hand on vocals, giving Pineda some off time during songs like “Keep On Running” and “Still They Run.” He too, sounded a lot like Steve Perry. Dare I say it, I want to say the voice was dubbed. Though it was awesome, it is almost hard to believe that he could perform with such exillerence. It was to perfect.–But, I could be wrong. (I’ve seen Journey in the past. I don’t remember Castronovo being that great.)
    
    Bassist Ross Valory and guitarist Neal Schon did not go unnoticed. Valory plucked gloriously away at his bass while providing flawless harmonies and Schon flaunted his majestic guitar capabilites, nailing every guitar solo. Pianist and keyboardist Jonathan Cain, playing beautifully on the keys.
    
    While the band beamingly played on, the crowd was gracious.–Continuously cheering and singing along. The band ate it up, especially Arnel. He occupied every inch of the stage, bobbing back and forth, running from side to side while the rest of the band shared the same feverish vibe. The crowd of course screamed the highest and cheered rigorously through the band’s oh-so-familiar “Wheel in the Sky”, “Faithfully” and the huge anthem “Don’t Stop Believing.”
    
    The band left briefly, teasing the longing-for-more crowd before returning to the stage for a one-song encore. “Lovin, Touchin’, Squeezin’,” closed the night with the entire ampitheater crowd singing “Na Na,” arms raised and gleefully swaying.
    
    Even a Steve Perry-less Journey couldn’t stop the nature and essence that is a Journey concert. The night was magical–so musical. The remaining members still know how to rip heavily on their instruments and Pineda had all the right energy.–Perfect for a true Journey fan. Needless to say, those in the crowd, “held on to that feeling.” It's apparent that Buffalo won't “stop believing.”

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  • 1 year ago
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• UB Bulls Outlast Falcons 64-51 UB Bulls Outlast Falcons 64-51

  • From: Tsuj10
  • Description:

     

    NCAA basketball teams that excel in February and March must be resilient.  Slumps, fatigue, and unforgiving rims are inevitable – how a team responds to adversity reveals its collective heart.

     

    The January UB Bulls wouldn’t have been able to recover after squandering a 15 point halftime lead.  Wednesday night, though, the Bulls overcame a shaky start to the second half and rode the hot shooting of Rodney Pierce and Sean Smiley to a 64-51 victory at Alumni Arena.  Buffalo has now won four straight MAC games after losing five of six, while Bowling Green drops to 6-7 in conference.

     

    Pierce led the Bulls with 18 points and 6 assists, while Smiley nailed four threes and finished with 14 points off the bench.   

     

    After leading 35-20 at halftime, Buffalo withstood a furious Falcon 14-2 run, keyed by Scott Thomas’ six points and inspired play from Dee Brown and Otis Polk.  Moreover, Bowling Green’s swarming 2-3 zone forced several poor UB offensive possessions.  Sparked by the hot outside shooting of Pierce, Smiley, and John Boyer, however, the Bulls countered with an 11-2 run to push the lead back to 13.

     

    Quicker ball movement opened holes in the Bowling Green zone, and the Bulls sunk four treys in three minutes during the stretch – two by Smiley and one each from Pierce and Boyer.  A silky pull-up jumper from Pierce, the Mid-American Conference’s second leading scorer, capped off the run.  Forward Calvin Betts played an understated role in the surge; he operated out of the high post – the middle of the Falcon zone – and his comfort handling and distributing the ball created space for the perimeter shooters. 

     

    “Once we got our spacing down and got some people in the game who were a little bit more comfortable with that, we got shots,” Bulls’ Head Coach Reggie Witherspoon elaborated.  “We wanted to move the ball in an efficient manner and make [Bowling Green] chase the ball.”

     

    “We stayed locked in and did the things we did in the first half and the last two games,” Pierce said in regard to the Bulls’ second-half run.  “We had to get our determination level back to where it was [in the first half].”

     

    A floater by Falcons’ point guard Joe Jakubowski briefly cut the deficit to ten, but two traditional three-point plays from Max Boudreau iced the game.  The senior Buffalo forward also sank all six of his free throws to finish with 12 points.  Buoyed by Smiley and Boudreau, the Bulls’ bench outscored Bowling Green’s 30-4.

     

    By shooting 50% from the field (13-26) in the first half and notching 11 second-chance points, the Bulls leapt out to a double-figure lead at the halftime break.  

     

    “I thought we came out on our heels in the first half,” Bowling Green Head Coach Louis Orr said.  “Buffalo was the aggressor.”

     

    Thomas paced Bowling Green with 21 points, hitting at an efficient 8-14 clip from the field.  The swingman converted on several smooth drives down the lane, relying on his length to finish difficult shots.

     

    “Scott Thomas is really growing up and turning into our leader, our competitive leader,” Orr added.

     

    With the victory, the Bulls pull even with Miami (OH) and Ball State at 8-5 in the conference; UB still trails East Division leaders Akron and Kent State by two games.  The top four seeds earn a first round bye in the Mid-American Conference Tournament, so Buffalo will need at least two wins out of three against Akron, Ohio, and Miami (OH) to round out the schedule. 

     

    “We’ve learned from the past that nothing we’ve already done qualifies us to be at less than our best in what we have in front of us,” Witherspoon said.  “We still have to use every opportunity to get better – we had just enough adversity to realize that.”

     

    Buffalo takes on St. Peter’s in an ESPNU Bracket Buster non-conference game at 2pm Saturday in New Jersey.

    Take a peek at Buffalo.com photographer Dave Marino's snapshots of the game.

    Box score of the UB - Bowling Green game.

     

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  • 7 months ago
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• Brad Paisley's 2010 H2O Tour Brad Paisley's 2010 H2O Tour

  • From: billfixit1
  • Description:

                   Brad Paisley's H2O Tour flows thru Darien Lake

         Just a couple days before the official start of summer, you couldn't have asked for a better evening of country music. The weather and the entertainment were as hot as could be as the Brad Paisley H2O Tour took over Darien Lake.

         The main event got under way with Clay Moden from WYRK introducing Justin Moore, as he came to the stage. Moore was sporting a bright white cowboy hat, sunglasses, jeans and a huge belt buckle. He dedicated a song called "Grandpa," to his deceased grandfather and to all deceased grandparents. He said it was his favorite song off his album. During his #1 hit, "Small Town USA," he changed the words of one line to " A little Brad Paisley and a six pack of lite" which got a huge roar from the crowd. Moore wrapped up his entertaining set with a ZZ Top favorite, "Gimme All Your Lovin'."

            Darius Rucker came out next after only about a fifteen minute break. Rucker was wearing a John Lennon t-shirt, jeans and a Nike baseball cap. Rucker is making the transition from his former position as the lead singer of Hootie and the Blowfish to country. Judging by the fans' reaction, I thinkhe made the right move. He sent a shout out to his friend, former Buffalo Bill, Jim Kelly, who was apparently in the crowd. Rucker played his popular country hits and mixed in some Hootie and the Blowfish hits. He sent out a "huge thank you to Brad Paisley." Keeping with the H2O Tour theme he ended his set with a Prince favorite "Purple Rain." Rucker pulled out a sharpie, signed his cap, and handed it to a fan.

           Finally, Brad Paisley took the stage, opening with his hot new single "Water." Paisley came out wearing a black t-shirt, jeans and a white cowbooy hat. It took about nine songs before anyone took their seats. Paisley always puts on a high energy, high entertainment value show. He is constantly running back and forth across the stage. There was a stage in front of the main stage that was closer to the fans, and he spent a lot of time on that stage. During most of Paisley's songs, there was a video playing in the background. Many of the videos were very funny and kept the crowd laughing. At least two of them referenced the Buffalo Bills, which got a great reaction from the crowd.

         Paisley added a new twist to his show as he exited the stage, walked thru the crowd, and sang from a platform at the back of the seating area facing the lawn. There, he talked about being an awkward teenager. He said " I'm living proof that no matter what anybody tells you, high school is not the best years of your life.....now college?" The audience on the lawn cheered in agreement.

         When Paisley left the stage the crowd applauded and beat on the seats pleading for an encore. It was the loudest I have ever heard. He came back out singing his big hit "Ticks" and followed with "Alcohol." During "Alcohol" all the artists that played that day came out on stage. They accompanied Paisley in the song, and signed autographs for some lucky front row fans. Paisley was sure to have Rucker sing the line " Teach white people to dance." There was even a seal and its trainer on stage. The seal had a cowboy hat on and danced with its trainer. As usual, Paisley gave his cowboy hat to a lucky fan.

     

          This was only the beginning of a great season of hot concerts at Darien Lake. Be sure to get your tickets and see a live show.

     

     

     

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  • 3 months ago
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• Starry Night in the Garden is Starry Night in the Garden is the complete package

  • From: dmodica
  • Description:

    On June 24th, perfectly coinciding with the first warm weather day of the season, “Starry Night In The Garden" truly kicked off the summer.

     

    Presented by STAR102.5, all proceeds benefit the Buffalo & Erie County Botanical Gardens, which hosted this charming event for the fifth year.
    
    
    The pleasant atmosphere at the Gardens enhanced the wide variety of activities presented at this successful summertime event. More than a dozen restaurants and around fifteen wineries from the Western New York area provided fine dining and food samples to about 3,000 people throughout the entire evening.
    
     
    
    The Botanical Gardens were open for all to enjoy as SafetySuit, Mat Kearney and Matt Nathanson gave talented performances. Pleasantly strolling through the refreshing mist of the greenhouses, attendees enjoyed the wonderful music as it reverberated through the indoor gardens.
    
     
    
    First time attendee Kristen McCarthy was drawn to the "Starry Night" because of everything offered at the event. "I work nearby and became aware of this event last year...It's nice to try some wine I'm not familiar with, taste food from different restaurants and support a good cause."
    
     
    
    Matt Nathanson fan Megan Vause heard about the event while listening to STAR102.5 . "This is such a nice summer thing to do and the combination of everything adds to the concert."
    
     
    
    Brad Waldron was also drawn to the event to see Nathanson perform and commented on the atmosphere at the Gardens. “I love how everyone came prepared with lawn chairs and blankets. They knew that this would be a nice and relaxing event and came to enjoy themselves.”
    
     
    
    Amanda Koch and Mary Beth Lamparelli were immediately  impressed with the event. Kochnoted, "As soon as we walked in we decided right away that we are coming back next year. There is a great mix of restaurants and wineries."
    
    
    Erin Grajek, the Director of Marketing at the Gardens gave this reporter some insight about the planning and set up for this remarkable event. “We have a very close relationship with Entercom and STAR102.5 and they do most of the work for us. The awareness of the Gardens is developing and the excellent weather and gifted artists that perform each year helps to make this event grow.” Grajek continued with “there is always a nice and mellow crowd that comes each year; everyone relaxes and enjoys themselves.”
    
    
    Opening the show, the up-and-coming band SafetySuit gave a short but well received acoustic set. Performing songs from their newest album titled “Life Left To Go,” the band began with the impressive “Someone Like You” and dedicated their song “Annie” to all the women in the crowd. Crowd members sang along and applauded SafetySuit as they ended their performance with their current hit “Stay.”  
    
    
    Mat Kearney came to the stage next and provided the growing crowd with another enjoyable acoustic performance. Accompanied by one band member, also playing an acoustic guitar, Kearney displayed his gifts as an artist, playing songs such as “All I Have” from his new album “City of Black and White.”
    
    
    Kearney joked with the crowd about his songs being played on Grey’s Anatomy. “It’s funny because you write your songs and pour your heart out in them and then all people talk about is how doctors make out to them.” He also admitted to being a former Bills fan stating, “I really liked the Bills in the fifth grade, I was a huge Andre Reed fan.”
    
    
    Matt Nathanson closed the show with an entertaining combination of his own music from the successful album Some Mad Hope, past hits and a few memorable songs from the 80’s. The extremely talented singer-songwriter had everyone’s undivided attention throughout the performance as he cracked jokes and even challenged the crowd to sing along with his cover of Journey’s “Don’t Stop Believing.” Noting the outstanding weather, Nathanson humorously stated, “I’ve been here about 250,000 times and I have never seen it this beautiful. I’m sweating…in Buffalo!”
    
    
    Longtime Matt Nathanson fan Kelly O’ Brien positively commented on his performance. “Once you see Matt live you become addicted. He always relates to the crowd wonderfully and draws you in because he is a genuine performer.”
    
    
     
    
    Canadian attendees Carie Ferrell and Mary Atkinson both plan on attending this event in 2010 and expressed “everything was just gorgeous, the scenery was perfect and it was well worth the trip.”
    
    
    For information about “Starry Night in the Garden” in 2010 log onto http://www.star1025.com/ next June.

     

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  • 1 year ago
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• Mercy alum Deanna Russo receiv Mercy alum Deanna Russo receives Spirit of Mercy Award

  • From: MyBuffaloDotCom
  • Description:

    

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

    Spirit of Mercy Award winner Deanna Russo (right) with husband Jason Russo.

    Buffalo.com Online Interactive Manager Deanna Russo is one of two recipients of the 2009 Spirit of Mercy Award, an annual honor given by Mt. Mercy Academy to men and women who display outstanding commitment and dedication to their communities.  Ms. Russo accepted her award on Thursday, Nov. 12 at the 10th annual Mercy Honors Dinner at Romanello’s South Restaurant in Hamburg.
    
    Ms. Russo’s work as the founder of Crusade Against Impaired Driving (CAID) was cited as a determining factor in her selection as a Spirit of Mercy Award recipient.  The organization was created in 2007 as part of Ms. Russo’s ongoing efforts to battle drunk driving, an issue that was driven home with terrible consequences in 1998 when her 18-year-old sister, Karen Kwiatkowski, was killed in an automobile accident caused by an intoxicated motorist. 
    
    “The creation of CAID was a natural progression to what I had been doing for years prior,” Ms. Russo said.  “After all, in my mind, more needed to be done - kids, teens, and adults needed to hear a real life story connected to DWI, they needed to be educated about the dangers, and more victims needed to be helped.  CAID’s dedicated to doing all of this.”
    
    Since its inception, Ms. Russo’s work with CAID has allowed her to speak with thousands of area youths on the dangers of drunk driving.  She has also successfully orchestrated three fundraising events, including the establishment of the CAID Annual Softball Tournament and Fundraiser, which raised $4,000 in August 2009.
    
    “She’s a really down-to-earth, really caring person,” said Elizabeth Carey, the mistress of ceremonies for the awards event.  “You could always tell she was hurt by the loss of her sister, which was very tragic…(but) now she seems to really have found her calling with the Crusade, and is really trying to make a difference and trying to make the roads safer.”
    
    The establishment of CAID in her late sister’s memory formalized a decade’s worth of award-winning community service by Ms. Russo.  She is a past recipient of the Sue Wardynski Award for Volunteerism from Western New York Public Broadcasting, a Volunteer Award from the Greenville (S.C.) Humane Society, an Erie County Proclamation/Leadership Award, a Certificate of Appreciation from the Office of Monroe County Executive Maggie Brooks, and a Certificate of Excellence from the Monroe County and City of Rochester Coalition for Crime Victims.
    
    “When I first volunteered to speak out about the dangers of drinking and driving several years ago, I did it for three reasons,” Ms. Russo said.  “I wanted to make our roads safer, I wanted to protect other families from suffering through needless grief - after all, drunk driving crashes are preventable – and, most importantly, I did it to keep my little sister’s memory alive.  I still do it for all those reasons.”
    
    A Buffalo native, Ms. Russo graduated from Mt. Mercy Academy in 1993 and earned her bachelor’s degree in Broadcasting from Buffalo State College in 1997.  She has served as online interactive manager for Buffalo.com at The Buffalo News since 2006.  Currently a resident of Hamburg, Ms. Russo and her husband, Jason, are expecting their first child in March.

  • Blog post
  • 10 months ago
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