Modeling debut (lol)

I love the folks at Phoenix, A Salon in Williamsville (hi, Amanda!), and was recently featured on their Instagram account (cardi - CuddlDuds on QVC - of course!). [not sponsored - just love this cardi!]

A post shared by Phoenix, A Salon (@phoenix_a_salon) on Aug 31, 2017 at 12:36pm PDT

A Buffalo Girl’s World…

Over the past three years or so, my main idea for this blog changed from aspects of my life that might appeal to others living in or visiting Buffalo to a replacement for my writing outlet at the now-defunct (I love that term) Examiner.com.

Somewhere along the way, I got bored – like, really bored – with that idea, hence my absence the last few months.

I’m feeling the need to restructure, reinvent, reconfigure some things about this blog – and maybe even reintroduce myself…

I’m in my 40s and don’t feel like it.

I have three fashion addictions: nail polish, boots and thumb holes.

I was brought up in auto racing, and consider it an honor to be able to call Turn 2 at Lancaster Speedway my Saturday night home from April through September.

I think I’m a pretty good photographer, but I can’t take a selfie to save my life.

My annual pilgrimage: Cleveland for a Yankees game (even though the Yanks usually lose, the food package with the bus tour I go on makes up for it!).

My favorite place in Buffalo: the Botanical Gardens (but there are lots of places I have yet to visit!).

I’m a self-professed geek: books, television, movies…Star Wars, GoT, LotR, Marvel, Transformers, etc, etc.

Gardening = therapy. Baking = therapy too.

I should own stock in QVC (actually I do…), and more recently in HSN (oh, yeah, QVC bought them…).

I love music, but my tastes totally run the gamut – the last three CDs I bought (yep, I still buy CDs!) were The Killers, Fergie and Shania Twain.

I love a good pick-up truck, and an even better muscle car.

I have a sick addiction to CuddlDuds (it’s the thumb holes…).

I already miss Chip and Joanna.

I’m not sure where this goes from here, but here’s hoping it’s one hell of a journey.

Five Things to do in July 2017

Taste of Buffalo – Saturday and Sunday, July 8-9 on Delaware Ave. in downtown buffalo, from Niagara Square to Chippewa. The largest two-day food festival in the country will feature over 60 restaurants, food trucks and wineries from throughout the area, as well as cooking demonstrations, a beer tent and live music. Hours are Saturday 11 a.m.-9 p.m. (beer tent until 11 p.m.) and Sunday 11 a.m.-7 p.m. – find out more at www.tasteofbuffalo.com.

Old Home Days parade
credit: paulathompsonfreelance.com

Old Home Days – Tuesday through Friday, July 11-14 at Island Park, Main St. in the Village of Williamsville. Events include the giant parade (Tuesday at 6:30 p.m.), bike rodeo (Wednesday at 11 a.m.), midway rides, live music and performances, food and much more. Find out more at the Old Home Days website.

Canal Fest of the Tonawandas – Sunday, July 16 through Sunday, July 23 on both sides of the canal in Tonawanda and North Tonawanda. Features food and beverages, midway rides, demonstrations, live entertainment and more. Events include the Canal Fest parade (Tuesday, July 18), Car Cruise (Wednesday, July 19), Bike Cruise (Friday, July 21) and the Arts & Crafts Show (Saturday and Sunday, July 22-23). Find a complete schedule at www.canalfest.org.

Rock the Barn – Friday and Saturday, July 21-22 at The Big Yellow Barn, 9015 Main St. in Clarence. Two days of music and great food to benefit Meals on Wheels Services in Clarence, Akron and Newstead; Friday features Bon Journey, and Saturday is headlined by Nightrain. Tickets are $20 in advance for both days – free for kids under 10; tickets will be $25 at the door. Find out more about the event at rockthebarn.com.

Glen Park Arts Festival – Saturday and Sunday, July 29-30 at Glen Park in the Village of Williamsville, from 10 a.m.-5 p.m. both days. The festival will feature numerous artisans, food, live entertainment and more. Find out more at the Glen Park Arts Festival Facebook Page. 

BfloGirlSports: July 2017 Buffalo Bisons schedule

credit: Buffalo Bisons

• Friday through Monday, June 30-July 3 – at home against the Syracuse Chiefs (Friday and Saturday– 7:05 p.m., Sunday – 1:05 p.m., Monday – 6:05 p.m.)
• Tuesday through Thursday, July 4-6 – on the road against the Scranton/Wilkes-Barre RailRiders (Tuesday and Wednesday – 7:05 p.m., Thursday – 12:05 p.m.)
• Friday through Sunday, July 7-9 – on the road against the Pawtucket Red Sox (Friday – 7:05 p.m., Saturday – 6:15 p.m., Sunday – 1:35 p.m.)
• Thursday through Sunday, July 13-16 – at home against the Scranton/Wilkes-Barre RailRiders (Thursday through Saturday- 7:05 p.m., Sunday – 1:05 p.m.)
• Monday through Wednesday, July 17-19 – on the road against the Columbus Clippers (all games 7:05 p.m.)
• Thursday through Sunday, July 20-23 – on the road against the Louisville Bats (Thursday and Friday – 7:05 p.m., Saturday – 6:35 p.m., Sunday – 6:05 p.m.)
• Monday through Thursday, July 24-27 – at home against the Durham Bulls (Monday through Wednesday – 7:05 p.m., Thursday – 1:05 p.m.)
• Friday through Sunday, July 28-30 – at home against the Louisville Bats (Friday and Saturday – 7:05 p.m., Sunday – 1:05 p.m.)

Find out more about the Bisons, and find the complete promotional schedule for 2017, at the Bisons’ website.

Western New York 2017 Independence Weekend fireworks guide

credit: Wikimedia Commons/Dori

**fireworks should begin at dusk unless otherwise noted**

Saturday, July 1 –

• Cherry Creek – Ballpark on Main St./Rt. 83
• Collins – Town Park – approximately 9:45 p.m.
• Ellicottville –Holiday Valley Resort (after BPO concert)
• Franklinville – Woods at Bear Creek, 3510 Bear Creek Rd.
• Grand Island – Martin's Fantasy Island (July 1-4)

Sunday, July 2 –

• Town of Niagara – Veteran’s Memorial Community Park, 7000 Lockport Rd.
• Niagara Falls – Seneca Niagara Casino – 9:30 p.m. (rain date July 3)

Monday, July 3 –

• Akron – Veteran’s Park – Buell St.
• Buffalo – Coca Cola Field – after Bisons game and BPO concert
• Clarence – Town Park
• East Aurora – Hamlin Park, 166 S. Grove St.
• Hamburg – Woodlawn Beach State Park
• Newfane – West Pier
• Town of Tonawanda – Kenney Field (rain date July 7)

Tuesday, July 4 –

• Amherst – UB North Campus
• Batavia – Dwyer Stadium, 299 Bank St. – after baseball game
• Buffalo – Canalside
• Dunkirk – Dunkirk Pier (rain date July 5)
• Lancaster – Save-A-Lot parking lot, 10 Aurora St. 
• Lewiston – Academy Park, 890 Center St.
• Little Valley – Cattaraugus County Fairgrounds, 501 Erie St.
• Lockport - Outwater Park
• Lyndonville – Lyndonville Central Schools Softball Fields (rain date July 5)
• Niagara Falls – Hyde Park
• Olean – Bradner Stadium
• Orchard Park – Middle School, 60 S. Lincoln St.
• Pendleton – Town Park (rain date July 5)
• Tonawanda – Niawanda Park (also watch at Gratwick Waterfront Park)
• Wheatfield – Oppenheim Park

Friday, July 7 –

• Salamanca – Seneca Allegany Casino (rain date July 9)

Saturday, July 8 –

• Lockport – West Main St. (part of Erie Canal Bicentennial Celebration)
• Varysburg – Buffalo Hill Village, Rt. 20A – 10:15 p.m. (part of Jam in the Valley)

Find an updated list at www.wgrz.com.

*****All dates and times subject to change and the weather*****

Five Things to do in June 2017

German Sommerfest – Sunday, June 4 from noon-7 p.m. at the Buffalo Niagara Heritage Village, 3755 Tonawanda Creek Rd. in Amherst. Featuring live music and dancing, food and beverage from Schnitzel $ Co., vendors and more. Admission is $8 for adults, $7 for military and seniors, and $6 for children and members – find out more here.

Allentown Art Festival – Saturday and Sunday, June 10-11 in the Allentown Historic Preservation District in Buffalo, from 10 a.m.-6 p.m. both days. The juried event features more than 400 exhibitors and is hosted by the Allentown Village Society. Find out more about the event at allentownartfestival.com.

Buffalo History Museum
credit: paulathompsonfreelance.com

M&T Third Friday and Party on the Portico – Friday, June 16 at the Buffalo History Museum, One Museum Ct. in Buffalo. On the third Friday of every month, admission to the Buffalo History Museum, Resource Center, and select events are free for everyone. During the summer, the Museum hosts happy hour on the portico and steps, featuring music, history-related activities, “happy hour” and more. On the schedule for June: Vinnie DeRosa and Vitamin D. Tickets are $5 for Museum members, $10 for thee general public – find out more at www.buffalohistory.org.

BBQ and Blues Bash – Friday, June 16 from 5-9 p.m. along Illinois St. near KeyBank Center. Support the children and families served by Gateway Longview with live music, beer, barbecue and more. Musical line-up includes Hayden Fogel Band, Tim Britt Band and Miller and the Other Sinners. Tickets for this 21-and-over event are $20 and available through www.bbqbluesbash.com.

Starry Night in the Garden – Wednesday, June 21 from 6-9 p.m., at the Buffalo and Erie County Botanical Gardens, 2655 South Park Ave. in Buffalo, starring Leann Rimes, Johnnyswin and James TW. General admission tickets are $55 and include entry to the concert and the Gardens, a wine glass, and wine, beer and food samples from local restaurants – get tickets and more information here.

M&T First Friday: June 2, 2017

credit: Dave Pape

On the first Friday of each month, the Albright-Knox Art Gallery, located at 1285 Elmwood Ave. in Buffalo, opens the doors to the 1962 Knox Building to the public free of charge from 10 a.m.-10 p.m., thanks to sponsorship from M&T Bank.

• Drop-in Art Activity – 10 a.m.-noon and 5-7 p.m. – free for all ages in the Education classrooms.
• Family Fun Tour – 11-11:45 a.m. – free in the 1962 Building.
• ArtCart – Menagerie: Animals on View – noon-1:30 p.m. – free in the 1905 Building.
• Studio Art Class for Adults: Pen-and-Ink Drawing – 1-3 and 7:30-9:30 p.m. – free for members, $10 for non-members.
• Public Tour – 1:30-2:30 p.m. – free one-hour tour.
• The Buffalo Zoo’s Zoomobile – special event from 3-7 p.m. on the Elmwood Ave. Lawn.
• “What’s Your Vision?” Tour – 4-5 p.m. – free one-hour tour.
• Jazz and Happy Hour – 5:30-7:30 p.m. – live music in the AK Café featuring Doug Yeomans and Sue Kincaid.
• Gallery Talk – Menagerie: Animals on View – 6-6:30 and 7-7:30 p.m. – free lecture with Albright-Knox Godin-Spaulding Curator and Curator for the Collection Holly E. Hughes in the 1905 Building.
• Film Screening: Zootopia – begins at 7:30 p.m. – free in the Auditorium.
• Exquisite Corpse – 8 p.m. in the Sculpture Court – try a unique parlor game invented by Surrealist artists.
• The Art of Drink: Tequila Tasting with Cantina Loco – 8:30-9:30 p.m. in the AK Café - $10 general admission, $5 for members.

Registration is required for many classes and events – call 716-270-8292 to register and find more information at www.albrightknox.org.

BfloGirlSports: June 2017 Buffalo Bisons schedule

credit: Buffalo Bisons

• Tuesday through Thursday, May 30-June 1 – at home against the Toledo Mud Hens (Tuesday – 6:05 p.m., Wednesday – 1:05 p.m., Thursday – 10:35 a.m.)
• Friday through Sunday, June 2-4 – at home against the Charlotte Knights (Friday – 7:05 p.m., Saturday – 6:05 p.m., Sunday – 1:05 p.m.)
• Monday through Wednesday, June 5-7 – on the road against the Lehigh Valley IronPigs (all games 7:05 p.m.)
• Thursday through Sunday, June 8-11 – on the road against the Pawtucket Red Sox (Thursday and Friday – 7:05 p.m., Saturday – 6:15 p.m., Sunday – 1:35 p.m.)
• Tuesday through Thursday, June 13-15 – at home against the Lehigh Valley ironPigs (all games 7:05 p.m.)
• Friday through Sunday, June 16-18 – at home against Scranton/Wilkes-Barre RailRiders (Friday and Saturday – 7:05 p.m., Sunday – 1:05 p.m.)
• Monday through Wednesday, June 19-21 – on the road against the Rochester Red Wings (Monday and Tuesday – 7:05 p.m., Wednesday – 1:35 p.m.)
• Thursday through Sunday, June 22-25 – on the road against the Syracuse Chiefs (Thursday – 6:35 p.m., Friday and Saturday – 7:05 p.m., Sunday – 1:05 p.m.)
• Monday through Thursday, June 26-29 – at home against the Rochester Red Wings (Monday through Wednesday – 7:05 p.m., Thursday – 1:05 p.m.)
• Friday through Monday, June 30-July 3 – at home against the Syracuse Chiefs (Friday and Saturday– 7:05 p.m., Sunday – 1:05 p.m., Monday – 6:05 p.m.)

Find out more about the Bisons, and find the complete promotional schedule for 2017, at the Bisons’ website.

M&T First Friday: May 5, 2017

credit: Wikimedia Commons/Dave Pape

On the first Friday of each month, the Albright-Knox Art Gallery, located at 1285 Elmwood Ave. in Buffalo, opens the doors to the 1962 Knox Building to the public free of charge from 10 a.m.-10 p.m., thanks to sponsorship from M&T Bank.

• Drop-in Art Activity – 10 a.m.-noon and 5-7 p.m. – free for all ages in the Education classrooms.
• Family Fun Tour – 11-11:45 a.m. – free in the 1962 Building.
• ArtCart – Shantell Martin: Someday We Can – noon-1:30 p.m. – free in the Sculpture Court.
• Studio Art Class for Adults: Fresco Techniques – 1-3 and 7:30-9:30 p.m. – free for members, $10 for non-members.
• Public Tour – 1:30-2:30 p.m. – free one-hour tour.
• “What’s Your Vision?” Tour – 4-5 p.m. – free one-hour tour.
• Jazz and Happy Hour – 5:30-7:30 p.m. – live music in the AK Café featuring Bill Bates.
• Gallery Talk – Shantell Martin: Someday We Can – 6-6:30 and 7-7:30 p.m. – free lecture with Public Art Project Coordinator Zack Boehler in the Sculpture Court.
• Performance: Baila Dance – 7:30-8:30 p.m. – free in the Auditorium.
• Studio Art Class for Adults: Monoprint – 7:30-9:30 p.m. – free for members, $10 for non-members.
• Yoga in the Sculpture Court – 8:30-9:30 p.m.  (SOLD OUT)

Registration is required for many classes and events – call 716-270-8292 to register and find more information at www.albrightknox.org.

Five Things to do in May 2017

Check out the Cherry Blossom Festival through May 7
credit: paulathompsonfreelance.com

Buffalo Cherry Blossom Festival – through May 7 at the Japanese Gardens at Delaware Park and other venues in the area. Celebrate the season’s beauty at the fourth annual festival featuring parties, orienteering, a traditional Japanese tea ceremony and more – find a full schedule here.

Shea’s Wine, Food and Beer Festival – Thursday, May 11 from 5:30-8:30 p.m. at Shea’s Performing Arts Center, 646 Main St. in downtown Buffalo. Tickets for the 22^nd annual event at $30 presale, $35 the day of the event – find out more here.

Nickel City Con – Friday through Sunday, May 19-21 at the Buffalo-Niagara Convention Center, Franklin St. in downtown Buffalo. Guests include William Shatner (Saturday), Joe Montana (Sunday), Billy Dee Williams (Saturday and Sunday), Erin Gray (Saturday and Sunday) and many more. Tickets are $15 per day or $30 for a three-day pass; tickets for guest experiences and photo ops are additional purchases. Find out more at www.nickelcitycon.com.

Day Out with Thomas – Saturday and Sunday, May 20-21 and May 27-28 at the Medina Railroad Museum, 530 West Ave. in Medina. This family-friendly event, entitled “The Friendship Tour,” features Thomas the Tank Engine and Sir Topham Hatt, with the train leaving every 45 minutes beginning at 9:15 a.m. Tickets are $21 and are available at www.medinarailroad.com.

BuffaLove Fest – Friday, May 26 from 5:30-9 p.m. at the Buffalo Zoo, 300 Parkside Ave. in Buffalo. The 21-and-over event will feature live music, local beer and wine, Buffalo-area food trucks, Buffalo-area artisans and vendors and more. Tickets are $25 in advance; admission includes two drink tickets. Find out more here.

BfloGirlSports: May 2017 Buffalo Bisons schedule

credit: Buffalo Bisons

• Tuesday through Thursday, May 2-4 – at home against the Rochester Red Wings (Tuesday and Wednesday – 6:05 p.m., Thursday – 1:05 p.m.)
• Friday through Sunday, May 5-7 – at home against the Lehigh Valley IronPigs (Friday – 7:05 p.m., Saturday and Sunday – 1:05 p.m.)
• Monday through Wednesday, May 8-10 – on the road against the Syracuse Chiefs (Monday – 6:35 p.m., Tuesday – 1:05 p.m., Wednesday – 10:35 a.m.)
• Thursday through Sunday, May 11-14 – on the road against the Lehigh Valley IronPigs (Thursday and Friday – 7:05 p.m., Saturday – 6:35 p.m., Sunday – 1:35 p.m.)
• Monday through Thursday, May 15-18 – at home against the Syracuse Chiefs (all games 6:05 p.m.)
• Friday through Sunday, May 19-21 – at home against the Pawtucket Red Sox (Friday – 7:05 p.m., Saturday and Sunday – 1:05 p.m.)
• Tuesday through Thursday, May 23-25 – on the road against the Gwinnett Braves (Tuesday and Wednesday – 7:05 p.m., Thursday – 12:05 p.m.)
• Friday through Monday, May 26-29 – on the road against the Charlotte Knights (Friday through Sunday – 7:05 p.m., Monday – 2:05 p.m.)
• Tuesday through Thursday, May 30-June 1 – at home against the Toledo Mud Hens (Tuesday – 6:05 p.m., Wednesday – 1:05 p.m., Thursday – 10:35 a.m.)

Find out more about the Bisons, and find the complete promotional schedule for 2017, at the Bisons’ website.

Lake Erie Wine Country hosts Wine & Cheese Weekend April 21-23

credit: freedigitalphotos.net/Stuart Miles

Lake Erie Wine Country kicks off the 2017 season with their annual Wine & Cheese Weekend event, taking place Friday through Sunday, April 21-23. Ticket holders can visit any or all of the 22 participating wineries, where they will enjoy a special wine paired with food samples created with Yancey’s Fancy cheeses.

This year, each winery has chosen a country around which they developed their food and wine pairing. Countries including Austria, Mexico, Poland, Trinidad and India will be represented. There is a diverse and delicious array of food offerings for this year’s “international” cheese and wine event. Streusel Kuchen, Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole, Grape Chutney, and Bavarian Cheddar Ale Soup are just some of the food samples that can be savored along with the perfect complementary wine.

Tickets are now on sale for Wine & Cheese Weekend at only $38 per person; one ticket is good for all three days. They may be purchased online at www.lakeeriewinecountry.org before Tuesday, April 18 at 10 a.m. Tickets are usually sold-out before this deadline, so advanced purchase is necessary. 

A designated driver ticket is available for only $20 and includes everything but wine. Friday and/or Sunday only tickets are only $28 each. This entitles ticket holders to enjoy all of the benefits of the event on Friday and/or Sunday only, but not on Saturday. As in the past, ticket holders will receive a food and wine pairing sample at each winery, additional wine tastes, a wine glass, recipe booklet, $5 voucher for wine purchase, and this year, a gift of another $5 voucher.

Ticket holders plan their own itinerary, enjoying each winery on a self-guided tour on Friday from noon-6 p.m.; Saturday from 10 a.m.–6 p.m.; and Sunday from 10 a.m.-5 p.m. 

Wine & Cheese Weekend will kick-off a busy 2017 tourist season in the region. Throughout the summer, the 22 individual wineries will host their own special events that include free concerts in the vineyards, vineyard walks, festivals, winemaker’s dinners and other exciting event offerings. Special events for all wineries are listed at www.lakeeriewinecountry.org. There are also listings for lodging, dining, transportation and other area attractions.

M&T First Friday: April 7, 2017

credit: Wikimedia Commons/Dave Pape

On the first Friday of each month, the Albright-Knox Art Gallery, located at 1285 Elmwood Ave. in Buffalo, opens the doors to the 1962 Knox Building to the public free of charge from 10 a.m.-10 p.m., thanks to sponsorship from M&T Bank.

• Drop-in Art Activity – 10 a.m.-noon and 5-7 p.m. – free for all ages in the Education classrooms.
• Family Fun Tour – 11-11:45 a.m. – free in the 1962 Building.
• ArtCart – Shantell Martin: Someday We Can – noon-1:30 p.m. – free in the Sculpture Court.
• Studio Art Class for Adults: Acrylic Painting – 1-3 and 7:30-9:30 p.m. – free for members, $10 for non-members.
• Public Tour – 1:30-2:30 p.m. – free one-hour tour.
• “What’s Your Vision?” Tour – 4-5 p.m. – free one-hour tour.
• Jazz and Happy Hour – 5:30-7:30 p.m. – live music in the AK Café featuring Gruvology.
• Gallery Talk – Jacob Kassay: OTNY and Eric Mack: Vogue Fabrics –6-6:30 p.m. – free lecture with Curatorial Assistant Jasmine Magana in the 1905 Building.
• Live Short-Order Ekphrastic Poems by Just Buffalo Writing Center – 6:30-8:30 p.m. – free in the 1962 Building’s Lower Level Galleries.
• Gallery Talk – Tamar Guimaraes and Kasper Akhoj: Studies for a Minor History of Trembling Matter and Willa Nasatir – 7-7:30 p.m. – free lecture with Curatorial Assistant Jasmine Magana in the 1905 Building.
• Studio Art Class for Adults: Charcoal Drawing – 7:30-9:30 p.m. – free for members, $10 for non-members.
• Shantell Martin in Conversation with Curator of Public Art Aaron Ott – 7:30-8:30 p.m. – free in the Auditorium.
• The Art of Drink: Bootleg Bucha – 8:30-9:30 p.m.  in the AK Café - $10 general admission, $5 for members.

Registration is required for many classes and events – call 716-270-8292 to register and find more information at www.albrightknox.org.

Five Things to do in April 2017

credit: freedigitalphotos.net/Stuart Miles

Buffalo Wine Festival – Saturday, April 1, with sessions from 1-4 p.m. and 6-9 p.m., at the Buffalo Niagara Convention Center, 153 Franklin St. in downtown Buffalo. Every ticket holder receives a keepsake wine glass, samples, entertainment and more. Tickets are $35 in advance and available at the link above.

Seaster at the Aquarium – Saturday, April 8 at the Aquarium of Niagara, 701 Whirlpool St. in Niagara Falls. Visit with the Easter Bunny ($5 for photo – noon-12:45 and 1:45-2:30 p.m.) and join in the Jello Egg Toss ($5 per egg – Sea Lions – 11:20 a.m. and 1:20 p.m., Seals – 10:40 a.m. and 2:40 p.m.).

Food Truck Tuesdays – beginning Tuesday, April 11 and continuing through October 3, visit Larkin Square from 5-8 p.m. every Tuesday (except July 4) and sample from up to 28 food trucks  around Larkinville. There will also be live music weekly and more fun at the surrounding breweries and distilleries.

Taste of the Trail – Saturday and Sunday, April 22-23 and 29-30, at participating wineries along the Niagara Wine Trail. Tickets include three tastings and food samples at each winery as well as a commemorative wine glass at your first winery. Hours are Saturday 10 a.m.-5 p.m. and Sunday noon to 5 p.m. – tickets are $25 in advance for one weekend ($30 at the door) or $40 for both weekends ($45 at the door).

Sips, Suds and Sweets – Thursday, April 27 from 6-9 p.m. at Fox Run at Orchard Park, One Fox Run in Orchard Park. The fourth annual event is a beer, wine and dessert tasting with a number of vendors plus live music, silent auctions, basket raffles and more – event supports the Senior Wishes organization. Tickets for the 21-and-over event are $50 presale and $60 the day of the event.

BfloGirlSports: April 2017 Buffalo Bisons schedule

credit: freedigitalphotos.net/Stuart Miles

• Thursday through Sunday, April 6-9 – at home against the Scranton/Wilkes-Barre RailRiders (Thursday – 2:05 p.m., Friday – 6:05 p.m., Saturday and Sunday – 1:05 p.m.)
• Monday through Thursday, April 10-13 – at home against the Rochester Red Wings (all games 1:05 p.m.)
• Friday through Sunday, April 14-16 – on the road against the Scranton/Wilkes-Barre RailRiders (Friday – 6:35 p.m., Saturday – 4:05 p.m., Sunday – 1:05 p.m.)
• Tuesday through Thursday, April 18-20 – at home against the Norfolk Tides (Tuesday and Wednesday – 6:05 p.m., Thursday – 1:05 p.m.)
• Friday through Sunday, April 21-23 – at home against the Columbus Clippers (Friday – 6:05 p.m., Saturday and Sunday – 1:05 p.m.)
• Tuesday through Thursday, April 25-27 – on the road against the Norfolk Tides (Tuesday and Wednesday – 6:35 p.m., Thursday – 12:05 p.m.)
• Friday through Sunday, April 28-30 – on the road against the Durham Bulls (Friday – 7:05 p.m., Saturday – 6:35 p.m., Sunday – 5:05 p.m.)

BfloGirlSports: April 2017 Buffalo Sabres schedule

credit: Wikimedia Commons

• Sunday, April 2 – v. New York Rangers – 3 p.m.
• Monday, April 3 – v. Toronto – 7 p.m.
• Wednesday, April 5 – v. Montreal – 7:30 p.m.
• Saturday, April 8 – at Florida – 7 p.m.
• Sunday, April 9 – at Tampa Bay – 5 p.m.

BfloGirlSports: April 2017 Buffalo Bandits schedule

credit: paulathompsonfreelance.com

• Saturday, April 1 – at home against Saskatchewan – 7:30 p.m.
• Saturday, April 8 – on the road against Calgary – 9 p.m. ET
• Friday, April 14 – on the road against Toronto – 7:30 p.m.
• Saturday, April 15 – on the road against Georgia – 7:05 p.m.
• Saturday, April 22 – at home against Georgia – 7:30 p.m.
• Saturday, April 29 – at home against Toronto – 7:30 p.m.

2017 Buffalo Bisons schedule

credit: Buffalo Bisons

• Thursday through Sunday, April 6-9 – at home against the Scranton/Wilkes-Barre RailRiders (Thursday – 2:05 p.m., Friday – 6:05 p.m., Saturday and Sunday – 1:05 p.m.)
• Monday through Thursday, April 10-13 – at home against the Rochester Red Wings (all games 1:05 p.m.)
• Friday through Sunday, April 14-16 – on the road against the Scranton/Wilkes-Barre RailRiders (Friday – 6:35 p.m., Saturday – 4:05 p.m., Sunday – 1:05 p.m.)
• Tuesday through Thursday, April 18-20 – at home against the Norfolk Tides (Tuesday and Wednesday – 6:05 p.m., Thursday – 1:05 p.m.)
• Friday through Sunday, April 21-23 – at home against the Columbus Clippers (Friday – 6:05 p.m., Saturday and Sunday – 1:05 p.m.)
• Tuesday through Thursday, April 25-27 – on the road against the Norfolk Tides (Tuesday and Wednesday – 6:35 p.m., Thursday – 12:05 p.m.)
• Friday through Sunday, April 28-30 – on the road against the Durham Bulls (Friday – 7:05 p.m., Saturday – 6:35 p.m., Sunday – 5:05 p.m.)
• Tuesday through Thursday, May 2-4 – at home against the Rochester Red Wings (Tuesday and Wednesday – 6:05 p.m., Thursday – 1:05 p.m.)
• Friday through Sunday, May 5-7 – at home against the Lehigh Valley IronPigs (Friday – 7:05 p.m., Saturday and Sunday – 1:05 p.m.)
• Monday through Wednesday, May 8-10 – on the road against the Syracuse Chiefs (Monday – 6:35 p.m., Tuesday – 1:05 p.m., Wednesday – 10:35 a.m.)
• Thursday through Sunday, May 11-14 – on the road against the Lehigh Valley IronPigs (Thursday and Friday – 7:05 p.m., Saturday – 6:35 p.m., Sunday – 1:35 p.m.)
• Monday through Thursday, May 15-18 – at home against the Syracuse Chiefs (all games 6:05 p.m.)
• Friday through Sunday, May 19-21 – at home against the Pawtucket Red Sox (Friday – 7:05 p.m., Saturday and Sunday – 1:05 p.m.)
• Tuesday through Thursday, May 23-25 – on the road against the Gwinnett Braves (Tuesday and Wednesday – 7:05 p.m., Thursday – 12:05 p.m.)
• Friday through Monday, May 26-29 – on the road against the Charlotte Knights (Friday through Sunday – 7:05 p.m., Monday – 2:05 p.m.)
• Tuesday through Thursday, May 30-June 1 – at home against the Toledo Mud Hens (Tuesday – 6:05 p.m., Wednesday – 1:05 p.m., Thursday – 10:35 a.m.)
• Friday through Sunday, June 2-4 – at home against the Charlotte Knights (Friday – 7:05 p.m., Saturday – 6:05 p.m., Sunday – 1:05 p.m.)
• Monday through Wednesday, June 5-7 – on the road against the Lehigh Valley IronPigs (all games 7:05 p.m.)
• Thursday through Sunday, June 8-11 – on the road against the Pawtucket Red Sox (Thursday and Friday – 7:05 p.m., Saturday – 6:15 p.m., Sunday – 1:35 p.m.)
• Tuesday through Thursday, June 13-15 – at home against the Lehigh Valley ironPigs (all games 7:05 p.m.)
• Friday through Sunday, June 16-18 – at home against Scranton/Wilkes-Barre RailRiders (Friday and Saturday – 7:05 p.m., Sunday – 1:05 p.m.)
• Monday through Wednesday, June 19-21 – on the road against the Rochester Red Wings (Monday and Tuesday – 7:05 p.m., Wednesday – 1:35 p.m.)
• Thursday through Sunday, June 22-25 – on the road against the Syracuse Chiefs (Thursday – 6:35 p.m., Friday and Saturday – 7:05 p.m., Sunday – 1:05 p.m.)
• Monday through Thursday, June 26-29 – at home against the Rochester Red Wings (Monday through Wednesday – 7:05 p.m., Thursday – 1:05 p.m.)
• Friday through Monday, June 30-July 3 – at home against the Syracuse Chiefs (Friday and Saturday– 7:05 p.m., Sunday – 1:05 p.m., Monday – 6:05 p.m.)
• Tuesday through Thursday, July 4-6 – on the road against the Scranton/Wilkes-Barre RailRiders (Tuesday and Wednesday – 7:05 p.m., Thursday – 12:05 p.m.)
• Friday through Sunday, July 7-9 – on the road against the Pawtucket Red Sox (Friday – 7:05 p.m., Saturday – 6:15 p.m., Sunday – 1:35 p.m.)
• Thursday through Sunday, July 13-16 – at home against the Scranton/Wilkes-Barre RailRiders (Thursday through Saturday- 7:05 p.m., Sunday – 1:05 p.m.)
• Monday through Wednesday, July 17-19 – on the road against the Columbus Clippers (all games 7:05 p.m.)
• Thursday through Sunday, July 20-23 – on the road against the Louisville Bats (Thursday and Friday – 7:05 p.m., Saturday – 6:35 p.m., Sunday – 6:05 p.m.)
• Monday through Thursday, July 24-27 – at home against the Durham Bulls (Monday through Wednesday – 7:05 p.m., Thursday – 1:05 p.m.)
• Friday through Sunday, July 28-30 – at home against the Louisville Bats (Friday and Saturday – 7:05 p.m., Sunday – 1:05 p.m.)
• Tuesday through Thursday, August 1-3 – on the road against the Scranton/Wilkes-Barre RailRiders (all games 7:05 p.m.)
• Friday through Sunday, August 4-6 – at home against the Lehigh Valley IronPigs (Friday and Saturday – 7:05 p.m., Sunday – 1:05 p.m.)
• Monday through Wednesday, August 7-9 – on the road against the Indianapolis Indians (Monday and Tuesday – 7:05 p.m., Wednesday – 1:35 p.m.)
• Thursday through Sunday, August 10-13 – on the road against the Toledo Mud Hens (Thursday through Saturday – 7:05 p.m., Sunday – 6:05 p.m.)
• Tuesday through Thursday, August 15-17 – at home against the Indianapolis Indians (Tuesday and Wednesday – 7:05 p.m., Thursday – 1:05 p.m.)
• Friday through Sunday, August 18-20 – at home against the Gwinnett Braves (Friday – 7:05 p.m., Saturday – 6:05 p.m., Sunday – 1:05 p.m.)
• Monday through Thursday, August 21-24 – on the road against the Pawtucket Red Sox (all games 7:05 p.m.)
• Friday through Sunday, August 25-27 – on the road against the Rochester Red Wings (Friday – 7:05 p.m., Saturday – 6:05 p.m., Sunday – 1:35 p.m.)
• Monday through Thursday, August 28-31 – at home against the Pawtucket Red Sox (all games 7:05 p.m.)
• Friday through Monday, September 1-4 – on the road against the Syracuse Chiefs (Friday through Sunday – 7:05 p.m., Monday – 1:05 p.m.)

Find out more about the Bisons, and find the complete promotional schedule for 2017, at the Bisons’ website.

BfloGirlSports: Buffalo Bisons Family Day – March 12, 2017

credit: Buffalo Bisons

The Buffalo Bisons will host their annual Inspire Dental Group Family Day Open House on Sunday, March 12 from noon-3 p.m. (Season Ticket Holders can enter at 11 a.m.). This fan-favorite free event will feature fun activities, great treats and special offers to get fans ready for Opening Day at Coca-Cola Field. The event is also one of the first times fans can visit the Coca-Cola Field box office to purchase 2017 Single-Game Tickets.

Fans should enter the ballpark through the Inspire Dental Gate at Swan St. The Bisons will be offering Sahlen's Hot Dogs and Coca-Cola Soft Drinks for $1 each, with all revenue raised being donated to the Buffalo Bisons Charitable Foundation. Fans will also be able to purchase an Opening Day Ticket (Thursday, April 6) for only a $5 donation to the Buffalo Bisons Charitable Foundation.

The Inspire Dental Group has added to the fun this year: As you tour Coca-Cola Field, be on the look out for several Hidden Toothbrushes (in Bisons' Blue and Red), which can be redeemed at a special Inspire Dental Group table for a great prize. Also, use the hashtag #GetInspired when posting your Open House photos on Instagram to be eligible to win Bisons tickets or other prizes.

Find out more about the event here and more about the Bisons’ 2017 season at their website.

Ellicottville, Holiday Valley host Winter Carnival and Mardi Gras

credit: freedigitalphotos.net/Stuart Miles

The Village of Ellicottville and Holiday Valley Resort, located on Route 219, will host their annual Winter Carnival and Mardi Gras celebration on Friday through Sunday, March 10-12, with two big parades, fun and games, and a food drive to benefit the Ellicottville Food Pantry.

On Saturday and Sunday, get something to eat at the all-day Safety Patrol Cookout at Yodeler Lodge (10 a.m.-5 p.m.). From 4-8 p.m. on Saturday, enjoy the music of Mo Porter at the Yodeler Lodge, and at 6:30 p.m. watch the Village transform for the annual Mardi Gras Parade.

On Sunday, the Ski Patrol Pancake Breakfast (9 a.m.) is followed by the Costume Parade at noon at the resort (line-up at 11:45 a.m.). The 21-and-over crowd can check out the Wine and Cheese Party with the Ellicottville Ski Club, or the Lederhosen Ski Club’s hot dog cookout, both outside the Holiday Valley Lodge at noon. The popular Dummy Downhill at Yodeler takes place at 2 p.m.

A drop box for canned goods will be located at the area Tops Market on Friday, March 10 from 4:30-9 p.m. and Saturday, March 11 from 9:30 a.m.-6 p.m., as well as downtown during the Mardi Gras parade.

Find a full schedule of events here.

Get more information about Ellicottville and the Winter Carnival at www.ellicottvilleny.com. 

Five Things to do in March 2017

credit: freedigitalphotos.net/Stuart Miles

Cavalcade of Cars – Friday through Sunday, March 3-5 at the Hamburg Fairgrounds Events Center. The 24^th annual show will feature hot rods, classics, custom cars, race cars, motorcycles, vendors and more, plus live music Friday and Saturday. Hours are Friday 5-10 p.m., Saturday 10 a.m.-10 p.m. and Sunday 10 a.m.-6 p.m.; admission is $13 for adults, $3 for kids ages 6-12 and free for kids under 6.

Winter Festival and Mardi Gras Weekend in Ellicottville – Friday through Sunday, March 10-12 throughout the village of Ellicottville. Crown the King and Queen, visit Holiday Valley’s Winter Carnival, check out the Mardi Gras parade on Saturday and much more! Find out more information here.

Fabulous Feast – Saturday, March 18 from 6-10 p.m. at The Atrium @ Rich’s, 1 Robert Rich Way in Buffalo. “MacBeth’s Banquet” will feature a five-course Elizabethan-style meal plus beverages, plus live, silent and ticketed auctions, all benefitting Shakespeare in Delaware Park. Tickets are $90 per person or $170 per couple for SDP members, or $110 per person or $210 per couple for non-members – RSVP by March 6.

Maple Weekends – Saturday and Sunday, March 25-26 at the Buffalo Niagara Heritage Village, 3755 Tonawanda Creek Rd. in Amherst. An interactive family event featuring a lumberjack breakfast (two seatings each day – 9:30 and 11 a.m.), maple science demonstrations and more. Hours are 9:30 a.m.-4 p.m. each day – admission is $10 for adults and $8 for children; make breakfast reservations at 716-689-1440 or here.

Tasteof Paradise – Friday, March 31 from 6-9 p.m. at the Buffalo and Erie County Botanical Gardens, 2655 South Park Ave. in Buffalo. This tropical-inspired fundraiser for the Botanical Gardens features a sneak peek at the Spring Flower Exhibit, food sampling from area restaurants and caterers, cocktails from Captain Morgan, live entertainment and raffles. Tickets are $35 for Garden members and $40 for the general public in advance – price increases to $45 after March 26.

M&T First Friday: March 3, 2017

credit: Dave Pape

On the first Friday of each month, the Albright-Knox Art Gallery, located at 1285 Elmwood Ave. in Buffalo, opens the doors to the 1962 Knox Building to the public free of charge from 10 a.m.-10 p.m., thanks to sponsorship from M&T Bank.

• Drop-in Art Activity – 10 a.m.-noon, 5-7 and 8:30-9:30 p.m. – free for all ages in the Education classrooms.
• Family Fun Tour – 11-11:45 a.m. – free in the 1962 Building.
• ArtCart: Materials – noon-1:30 p.m. – free in the 1905 Building.
• Studio Art Class for Adults: Ink Drawing – 1-3 and 7:30-9:30 p.m. – free for members, $10 for non-members.
• Public Tour – 1:30-2:30 p.m. – a free tour of the 1962 Knox Building.
• “What’s Your Vision?” Tour – 4-5 p.m. – free one-hour tour.
• Jazz and Happy Hour – 5:30-7:30 p.m. – live music in the AK Café featuring George Kane.
• Gallery Talk – Jacob Kassay: OTNY and Eric Mack: Vogue Fabrics –6:30-7 p.m. – free lecture with Curatorial Assistant Jasmine Magana in the 1905 Building.
• Gallery Talk – Tamar Guimaraes and Kasper Akhoj: Studies for a Minor History of Trembling Matter and Willa Nasatir – 7-7:30 p.m. – free lecture with Curatorial Assistant Jasmine Magana in the 1905 Building.
• Performance: Slyboots Drum and Dance Ensemble – 7:30-8:30 p.m. – free in the Auditorium.

Registration is required for many classes and events – call 716-270-8292 to register and find more information at www.albrightknox.org.

BfloGirlSports: March 2017 Buffalo Bandits schedule

credit: paulathompsonfreelance.com

• Friday, March 3 – at home against Rochester – 7 p.m.
• Saturday, March 4 – on the road against Rochester – 1 p.m.
• Friday, March 17 – on the road against Vancouver – 10:30 p.m.
• Saturday, March 25 – on the road against Rochester – 7:30 p.m.

BfloGirlSports: March 2017 Buffalo Sabres schedule

credit: Wikimedia Commons

• Thursday, March 2 – v. Arizona – 7 p.m.
• Saturday, March 4 – v. Tampa Bay – 7 p.m.
• Sunday, March 5 – at Pittsburgh – 5 p.m.
• Tuesday, March 7 – v. Philadelphia – 7:30 p.m.
• Friday, March 10 – at Columbus– 7 p.m.
• Saturday, March 11 – v. Columbus – 7 p.m.
• Tuesday, March 14 – at San Jose – 10:30 p.m.
• Thursday, March 16 – at Los Angeles – 10:30 p.m.
• Friday, March 17 – at Anaheim – 10 p.m.
• Monday, March 20 – at Detroit – 7:30 p.m.
• Tuesday, March 21 – v. Pittsburgh – 7 p.m.
• Saturday, March 25 – v. Toronto – 7 p.m.
• Monday, March 27 – v. Florida – 7 p.m.
• Tuesday, March 28 – at Columbus – 7 p.m.

Five Things to do in February 2017

credit: freedigitalphotos.net/Stuart Miles

Lumagination – February 1-4, 7-11, and 14-21 – 6-9 p.m. except Fridays and Saturdays 6-10 p.m. – at the Buffalo and Erie County Botanical Gardens, located at 2655 South Park Ave. in Buffalo. The annual light show features specialty nights like Family Fun Night (February 1 and 8), Student Night (February 7 and 9), and Valentine’s Day surprises (February 14), plus additional days during winter break (February 19-21).

Buffalo Auto Show – Thursday through Sunday, February 9-12 at the Buffalo-Niagara Convention Center, 153 Franklin St. in downtown Buffalo. In addition to the top new cars for the year, kids can visit with some of the Buffalo Bandits (Thursday), the Superheroes Alliance (Saturday and Sunday), and Buffalo Sabres alumni Danny Gare, Don Luce and Craig Ramsay.

Labatt Blue Pond Hockey Tournament – Friday through Sunday, February 17-19 at Buffalo RiverWorks, 359 Ganson St. in Buffalo. The three-day tournament, celebrating its 10^th anniversary, will host 144 teams.

Polar Bites – Thursday, February 23 from 6-9 p.m. at the Buffalo-Niagara Convention Center. This 21-and-older event will feature food samplings from some of the area’s best restaurants, basket and silent auctions and visits with some Zoo “ambassadors.” Tickets are $30 presale and $40 at the door – includes admission, samplings, two drink tickets and free parking.

Madd Tiki Winter Luau – Saturday, February 25 from4 p.m.-midnight at Buffalo RiverWorks. The third annual winter beach festival features live music and performances, beach games and djs.

M&T First Friday: February 3, 2017

credit: Wikimedia Commons/Dave Pape

On the first Friday of each month, the Albright-Knox Art Gallery, located at 1285 Elmwood Ave. in Buffalo, opens the doors to the 1962 Knox Building to the public free of charge from 10 a.m.-10 p.m., thanks to sponsorship from M&T Bank.

• Drop-in Art Activity – 10 a.m.-noon and 5-7 p.m. – free in the Education classrooms.
• Family Fun Tour – 11-11:45 a.m. – free in the 1962 Building.
• Mobile ArtCart – Stop Me If You’ve Heard This One: Humor and Satire from the Collection – noon-1:30 p.m. – free in the Clifton Hall Link.
• Studio Art Classes for Adults – 1-3 and 7:30-9:30 p.m. – free for members, $10 for non-members.
• Public Tour – 1:30-2:30 p.m. – a free tour of the 1962 Knox Building.
• “What’s Your Vision?” Tour – 4-5 p.m. – free one-hour tour.
• Jazz and Happy Hour – 5:30-7:30 p.m. – live music in the AK Café featuring Doug Yeomans and Sue Kincaid.
• Gallery Talk – Stop Me If You’ve Heard This One: Humor and Satire from the Collection –6:30-7 and 7:30-8 p.m. – free lecture with Curatorial Assistant Jasmine Magana in the Clifton Hall Link.
• Performance: Black Rock Zydeco – 7:30-8:30 p.m. – free in the Auditorium.
• The Art of Food and Drink: Tommyrotter Distillery – 8:30-9:30 p.m. in the AK Café – $5 for members, $10 for non-members.

Registration is required for many classes and events – call 716-270-8292 to register and find more information at www.albrightknox.org.

BfloGirlSports: February 2017 Buffalo Bandits schedule

credit: paulathompsonfreelance.com

• Friday, February 3 – on the road against Toronto – 7:30 p.m.
• Friday, February 17 – at home against New England – 7:30 p.m.
• Sunday, February 19 – on the road against New England – 1 p.m.
• Saturday, February 25 – at home against Toronto – 7:30 p.m.

BfloGirlSports: February 2017 Buffalo Sabres schedule

credit: Wikimedia Commons

• Tuesday, February 2 – v. New York Rangers – 7:30 p.m.
• Saturday, February 4 – v. Ottawa – 7 p.m.
• Monday, February 6 – at New Jersey – 7 p.m.
• Tuesday, February 7 – v. San Jose – 7 p.m.
• Thursday, February 9 – v. Anaheim – 7 p.m.
• Saturday, February 11 – at Toronto – 7 p.m.
• Sunday, February 12 – v. Vancouver – 7:30 p.m.
• Tuesday, February 14 – at Ottawa – 7:30 p.m.
• Thursday, February 16 – v. Colorado – 7:30 p.m.
• Saturday, February 18 – v. St. Louis – 1 p.m.
• Sunday, February 19 – v. Chicago – 6 p.m.
• Saturday, February 25– at Colorado – 10 p.m.
• Sunday, February 26 – at Arizona – 8:30 p.m.
• Tuesday, February 28 – v. Nashville – 7 p.m.

Winter festivals abound in January 2017

credit: freedigitalphotos.net/Stuart Miles

Have some winter fun at one of these upcoming winter festivals throughout the Buffalo area!

Town of Tonawanda Winterfest – Thursday through Monday, January 12-16 at various locations throughout the Town of Tonawanda. Thursday and Friday feature fun for the adults, and the entire family can get involved on the weekend with hockey games, the Buffalo Zoo Mobile, crafts, Kan Jam, family entertainment, food trucks and more – find a complete schedule here.

Chillabration at Canalside – Friday through Monday, January 13-16 at Canalside Buffalo. There will be a petting zoo, ice sculptures, amusement rides, crafts, a local-artist vendors market, live music and more. Hours are Friday 5-10 p.m., Saturday 10 a.m.-10 p.m., and Sunday and Monday, 10 a.m.-8 p.m. – find out more here.

Winterfest in Amherst – Saturday, January 21 from noon-2:30 p.m. at the Harlem Rd. Community Center, 4255 Harlem Rd. in Amherst. There will be horse-drawn wagon rides in the parking lot (12:15-2:15 p.m.), as well as indoor and outdoor activities like the Ninja Gym, face painting, nature activities, crafts and more (snow activities are weather-dependent). Stick around at 2:30 p.m. for a showing of “Finding Dory” in the auditorium.

Larkinville Ice Festival – Saturday, January 28 from 11 a.m.-3 p.m. at Larkin Square, 745 Seneca St. in Buffalo. There will be festivities at Larkin Square, The Filling Station, Hydraulic Hearth, Flying Bison and Buffalo Distilling Company, including outdoor yoga (“Snowga”), the Keybank Hockey Rink, vendors, food trucks, and other activities (weather-permitting).

Winterfest at Chestnut Ridge Park – Sunday, January 29 (postponed) February 12 from 10 a.m.-3 p.m. at the Chestnut Ridge Park Casino, 6121Chestnut Ridge Rd. in Orchard Park. The event will go on with or without snow and feature arts and crafts, hayrides, snowshoe hikes and more.