City of Night 2014 Recap

Silo City is one of the neatest places in Buffalo nowadays, at least in my eyes. Last year I did a kayaking and walking tour of the grain elevators and learned a lot about the past history in Buffalo. A couple weekends back my friends and I went to City of Night. A night filled with art, history and music. The event is put on by the Emerging Leaders in the Arts Buffalo {ELAB}.

A variety of artists, musicians and local performers came out to show us their talent all while utilizing a unique space - the grain elevators. Some of my favorite moments were seeing Communify Buffalo's booth, the fire and hula hooping performance, the Chinese lanterns that lit up the sky, the graffiti art inside the silo and the row of food trucks that were on hand for people to experience.

If you have the chance to go to Silo City or to attend City of Night next year, definitely do so. You won't be disappointed.

To learn more about ELAB click here.

-B

#BuffaloLinks

With the holiday weekend a day away what is better than to get outdoors and do some activities. Paths, Peaks and Paddles, Inc. offers a variety of fun things to do {kayaking, canoeing, hiking, etc.} for any level. Check them out.

With an upcoming golf tournament I have to start practicing on my "golf game." Where are some good driving ranges to go to practice? Are there any on this list that you recommend?

Not only is it a great weekend filled with country music and ice cold drinks, but it also has one of the best firework displays in the area. For more info click here: Jam in the Valley

#BuffaloLinks

Check out the summer concert series on Elmwood and Bidwell this season. 7pm on Tuesdays.

The Celebrity Basseye Tournament is this Thursday and Friday. For more info click here.

This Saturday the 50 Year Finish is taking place. My first half marathon, I'm so nervous and excited at the same time. Can't wait for it!

Check out the Ooo La La Fashion Truck and other vendors at the Intune Festival in Williamsville this Saturday.

An event I didn't get to go to last year and am looking forward to this year. City of Night down by Silo City is from 4-1am. Can't wait to check it out!

#WorldCup2014 Canalside Buffalo

Sunday Canalside Buffalo held a viewing for the USA vs. Portugal game. The weather was beautiful, the scenery was great and the game was, well so-so. Its great to see a "little" life come back to downtown and what's even more better is to see all the activities starting to take shape down at canalside.

There were a lot of people who turned out to view the World Cup Soccer game on the big screens, the Cheesy Chick food truck and beverage tents were on hand as well. While I think the viewing screens could have been a little bigger it was nice they were allowing people to bring in their own food and drink, some brought the family down and had picnic's set up. Those people were smart because they didn't have to wait in long lines.

There was even what I am calling a "Buffalove" tent set-up for people to purchase Buffalo shirts and pictures. For putting the event together in just a couple days, the turnout was great and people not only showed their American pride in Red, White and Blue, but they showed their Buffalo pride too.

-B

#BuffaloLinks

Today Delaware Park is going to be filled with thousands of people for the annual JP Morgan Chase Corporate Challenge. Good luck to everyone participating!

Tonight kicks off the first play being held by Shakespeare in Delaware Park this summer. Come out for a free performance of Henry V. Performances take place Tuesday through Sunday at 7:30pm.

The annual 5K Stiletto Run is taking place down on Canalside Friday evening. People - guys and gals "dress" up in some high heels and race to the finish line. Check out this fun event if you have the chance!

While I don't think the New York Power Authority would have events going on, the Niagara Power Project Visitors Center offers the opportunity to experience interactive exhibits like how much power goes into Niagara Falls and observation decks for guests to look out. What a neat place to go with your children or even as adults!

Clinton Bailey Farmers Market

Yesterday my Mom and I made a stop to a couple farmers markets, one being the Farmers and Artisans Market on Main St. in Snyder. The place is quant and cute, but was more of a market to eat at instead of the traditional farmers market where you actually buy directly from the farmers. I would definitely go there for lunch some time, but for what I was looking to get we opted to leave and check out a different place. Since we wanted to walk around outside and pick our fruit and vegetables we decided to go to the Clinton Bailey farmers market. Because it was a Sunday and most markets are closed this was a good choice, there were no crowds of people and we were able to get some good fruit and veggies. We even picked up a few Gerber Daises for the garden. Open daily check them out some time.

What are some of your favorite farmer's markets?

-B

#BuffaloLinks

Today starts the first Thursday of the summer to check out concerts at Canalside. For a complete list of who is performing go here.

The weather looks beautiful for this weekends 57th Annual Allentown Art Festival.

One thing I want to do this summer is get to Artpark, whether its for a concert or not, Lewiston is so beautiful in the summer time.

This weekend I want to check out the Farmers & Artisans Market in Snyder. What are some other good farmers markets to check out this summer?

{People Who Move Buffalo} Bryan Furtak, BMF Contracting

{Photo courtesy of BMF Contracting}

This week I'm excited to tell you about a person who moves Buffalo in many ways, Bryan Furtak, owner of BMF Contracting does just about everything, from replacing doors and windows to new roofs and insulation, if you're looking for a contractor I highly suggest Bryan.

Let's face it if you're a home owner or business owner there are always things that need to be fixed around the home and office. Like most people you probably don't have time to get around to home improvement projects and you don't know who to trust or go to for these type of projects. BMF Contracting is the place to call to get things done! Offering free estimates, licensed, insured and credible you really don't have anything to lose. Check out my interview with Bryan below.

-B

{Name/Business Name}

Bryan Furtak, Owner of BMF Contracting

{How did you get started in the contracting world?}

I have always been handy and always loved building things so 10 years ago I began as an apprentice for a contracting company.  Within 3 years I worked my way up to Forman and began leading my own team on jobs.  With all the experience I gained over the last 10 years,  last July I decided to open BMF contracting and I have been busy ever since!

{What do you love most about your job?}

The rebuilding aspect.  I love seeing the transformation that takes place when rebuilding older homes and making them brand new again.

{Any favorite projects you’ve worked on or are working on that make you enjoy what you do more?}

I have to say the jobs that really stick out for me as favorites were the projects I did for a couple of Buffalo sports figures.

{What do you specialize in?}

Residential contracting.  Complete home renovations and improvements including siding, roofing, window and door installation, and insulation.

{What do you love most about Buffalo? Favorite bar, restaurant, part of town you like the most? Why?}

I love the architecture around our city. I also love being a part of the Buffalo community because of the pride that people from Buffalo share over our city and our sports teams. 

{How can people get ahold of you?}

Contact me directly at 716-628-0056 or email me at bmfcontracting13@gmail.com

{Any other information you’d like to share?}

  All estimates are free.  Check out our Facebook page here

#BuffaloLinks

Because you never know when you will need a support group, resources, or you just want to volunteer your time to a great organization. Breast Cancer Network of WNY is a great place to check out if you are currently battling breast cancer or if you are a survivor.

I am loving this local company who makes nail polish, hosts nail polish parties, and names them after Buffalo related things. One of my new favorite businesses, Gridlock Lacquer.

Another brewery opening soon is Big Ditch Brewing. Buffalo is definitely forming a craft brewing scene.

I didn't even know we had a Lobster Fest in this area. On June 19th the Greater Niagara Frontier Council for Boy Scouts of America is hosting the 24th Annual Lobster fest at Woodlawn Beach. Check out all the event information here.

#BuffaloLinks

Love all things Buffalo, then make sure to check out the 2nd annual Buffalove Fest at the Buffalo Zoo on Friday from 5:30-9pm. Its a great event that hosts a lot of local Buffalo vendors. Check it out if you can!

For those looking for prop rentals for special events, check out Nickel City Novelties for your event needs.

Because everyone has ideas, so why not bring them to life, 19 Ideas Buffalo

With Memorial Day kicking off the warmer days ahead All WNY.com provides a list of all the campgrounds in Western New York. For those who like nature and the wilderness check out the site for places to camp this coming summer.

Being A Little Crafty

Once or twice a month Modern Nostalgia  and Blue Collar Buffalo host a Makers class where guests can be crafty for a few hours after work. Last week my sister and I attended the class on how to make your own clutch. The class was $38 and included all of the materials, snacks and 15% off any purchase you made in the store that night. Oh and you could bring in your own wine or beer as well.

We received step by step instructions from Gretchen on how to put together your one of a kind item. The class was a lot of fun. Each class offers something different. If you like being creative and making your own things I highly suggest you follow Modern Nostalgia and Blue Collar Buffalo on the social media outlets and come to the next Makers class.

Create a stamp of your own.

-B

#BuffaloLinks

I can't wait to kick off the weekend with a happy hour at Don Tequila on Allen St. I've never been there, but have heard great things, let's see if its just as good or even better then Cantina Loco.

Looking for a place to take the kids this weekend, check out the Safari Tours from 10-6pm Friday and Saturday and open from 10-3pm on Memorial Day Hidden Valley Animal Adventure.

The Buffalo Marathon is this Sunday, good luck to all those running in it! Start time is 7am for those looking to come out and cheer on the participants.

One place that is sure to see high volumes of people this holiday weekend is the Buffalo Airport. Did you know there are 110 daily flights with nonstop services to 23 different cities. If you're traveling like me this weekend remember to get to the airport early and be patient.

#BuffaloLinks

There's still time to order your presale tickets and help out the Naval and Military Park. Come hang out at the ballpark on Saturday for the Armed Forces Tribute Day and show your support to our Military!

With the warmer months approaching we will be enjoying some cold brews. Stay up to date on the craft beers in NYS by liking this page {NYS Brewers Association}

Give 4 Greatness raises funds, awareness and provides opportunities for the arts and cultural organizations in WNY. To learn more about this project or to donate go here.

With prom and wedding season now upon us, if you're looking for a make up artist check out Groom Service inside the Hotel Lafayette.

#BuffaloLinks

I'm looking forward to hearing the lineup for who will be performing at this years Canalside Concerts. Find out today at 5:30pm

Stop by Fat Bob's on Friday for this fun event The Dude Hates Cancer. Proceeds benefit The Leukemia and Lymphoma Society

The students in the Fashion & Textile class at Buff State are showcasing their work Saturday at the annual Runway 7.0 event. There are 2 shows {3pm & 8pm} stop out and see how talented these students are!

As I made a visit to General Mills this week I saw a sign for River Works coming soon. I can't wait to see these grain elevators transformed into breweries and attractions for people in the area. This area is full of so much history that many don't know about, it only makes me want to learn more about Buffalo history.

A trip on Hertel

I will say I don't get the chance to visit Hertel Ave. that much, but when I do I always enjoy walking down the street and visiting the local shops that reside there. One of my favorites to visit is Modern Nostalgia. I was on a mission to find a couple new pieces of clothing that I could wear multiple times as different looks and combine with pieces I already have at home. The store is so comfortable, I love the chic and rustic vibe it gives. And Morgan was great, she helped me pick out pieces that looked good and I was comfortable in. Definitely check them out when you're in the area or if you're looking for new pieces to add to your wardrobe. -B

{ Jasmine green tea from Spot and my Modern Nostalgia purchases }

{ I couldn't resist to snap a picture of this lovely Elephant jacket #trunksareup #goodluck }

{ This mirror in the dressing room is so pretty and the maxi dress on the hanger is so comfortable #feminine #chic }

{ You can always spice up an outfit with the right accessories and Mod Nos has a variety to choose from }

#BuffaloLinks

This Saturday from 3-7pm stop by the village of Hamburg and take a stroll on their Hamburg Wine About 2014. For $20 take a trolley and taste a variety of wines from different wineries at local shops throughout the village.

Buffalo's first and only polish food truck Betty Crockski. Make sure to check their schedule daily to see where they'll be.

I haven't been to Rapids Theater in a few years. I'm looking forward to the upcoming concert their on Monday evening.

Springfest at Marcy Casino that was supposed to take place this Sunday is postponed until May 31. I missed last year and am hoping to make an appearance at this year's event.

Dyngus Day Wrap Up

Dyngus day has come and past and while I enjoyed my time with friends I must say I have to voice my "concerns" on how I feel about the event this year. Going down to the Polonia District in the east side of Buffalo is a tradition. It brings back memories of my old neighborhood, where I grew up and celebrating at the Central Terminal is a great time.

This year there were crowds and crowds of people, more so than in past years {I think the nice weather had something to do with that}, but with that came no sense of organization on the event planners part, people were cutting through fences, more garbage lined the streets than normal, the bands didn't stick with the tradition of playing just Polka music, I'm sorry but in past years that's all that was played, no modern music was played. There was no TYSKIE beer {how can you not have Tyskie Beer at Dyngus Day}, I thought there was a "lack of security" and I felt $5 per drink ticket was fairly high. Where does this money go to? If you have Sobieski Vodka or a beer sponsor, sponsoring your event, where does the money go from ticket and drink sales? Does it go to help renovations at the Terminal or Churches that are still open on the East side of Buffalo? I would like to know.

I don't like to be negative, but after attending this past yea,r all of these questions arose and I thought I would put it out there. All things aside I had a good time, the weather was great, the company was better and I'm looking forward to 2015, hopefully back inside the Terminal.

-B  

#BuffaloLinks

Starting April 23 through May 4, Buffalo is hosting a Cherry Blossom Festival at the Japanese Gardens next to the Buffalo History Museum. This is a kick start to enjoy the beautiful Buffalo gardens over the course of the next few months.

Saturday Communify Buffalo is hosting the 2nd annual Show How event. Learn from people in various industries, crafts and trades at this event. For tickets and more info go here.

Do you love shorts? How about stylish, vintage shorts? Vintage Chameleon offers a variety of options in the shorts department. Perfect for the summer months ahead. Check her facebook page out here.

SSet is a new store that opened on Elmwood Ave. in Buffalo. If offers housewares, antiques and vintage pieces for those looking to makeover a room in their home or for you new home owners. Check them out!

Brewing in the Burbs

The other day Lacey, Nicole and myself went to Hamburg Brewing Company in Hamburg, NY. What a beautiful place it is! While we went to attend an event held by the Buffalo Beer Goddesses the event didn't seem to really exist, but regardless we had a good time. We each ordered a flight that was $8 and came with the opportunity to choose 4 beers out of a handful of options including the Derailer that has a 9.4% alcohol content. The brewery has a beautiful pond with a nice patio and gives off a lodge type feel. They offer light appetizers, like soft pretzels with mustard and such.

I was with two ladies who have their Cicerone so I was able to learn about the beers I was sampling. Hamburg Brewing Company is a place I would definitely go back to and tour the facility and enjoy a few brews outside next time. If you can't make it out to Hamburg check their Beer Finder to see if a local bar or restaurant serves it near you!

Cheers!

-B

{ the first thing you see when you walk in - the brewery }

{ a picture wouldn't be complete without two thumbs up }

{ the list of brews to choose from }

{ Cicerone Lacey }

{ beer flight }

{ saloon type doors in the ladies bathroom }

Its a Polish thing!

Happy Dyngus Day! Today is one of the best days of the year! Buffalo hosts the largest organized Dyngus Day celebration in the world according to Wikipedia and honestly I believe it. Thousands upon thousands of people (not even Polish heritage) come down to the historic Polonia District on the east side of Buffalo to celebrate the festivities, show Polish pride, flirt with Pussy willows and squirt guns and listen to the best polka bands around.

While I choose to celebrate at St. Stanislaus and the Central Terminal, other local bars and venues host opportunities to polka, drink some Tyskie beer and enjoy the start of spring. Some are the Polish Villa on Harlem Rd., Pott's Banquet Hall, and Black Rock Kitchen just a few to name. For a full list of places go here.

If you're planning or thinking of coming out stay up to date on best places to park, etc. on Dyngus Day Buffalo's Facebook Page.

Remember to wear red!

-B