The News, Eats & Events Shaping Western New York

The U.S. women’s hockey team triumphed over Canada 2-1 in a dramatic overtime finish at the Milano Cortina Games, capturing their third Olympic gold medal.

Megan Keller netted the game-winning goal 4:07 into overtime, capping off a thrilling comeback sparked by captain Hilary Knight’s late equalizer.

Western New York shone brightly, with standout performances from Buffalo native Hayley Scamurra and Bishop Kearney alums Laila Edwards, Caroline Harvey, and Ava McNoughton.

Laila Edwards also made history as the first Black woman to score for Team USA in Olympic hockey.

Local pride soared as fans celebrated at Barry’s Bar in Fairport, while coaches and alumni from the area cheered on their players’ success.

Team USA dominated the tournament, finishing undefeated and outscoring all opponents 33-2, inspiring young athletes across Rochester and New York.

Raising Cane's, the iconic chicken finger chain, is preparing to open its first Western New York location in Amherst, targeting the former Red Lobster site on Maple Road.

This marks a major step in the chain’s East Coast expansion, drawing excitement from fans of its focused, high-quality menu.

If all goes as planned with the property purchase, the project will move through local approvals, with construction projected to start no earlier than 2027.

The arrival of Raising Cane's further energizes Buffalo’s food scene, complementing a recent surge of restaurant openings — especially on Hertel Avenue, where new spots like a craft brewery, Italian bistro, and vegan café have enhanced the neighborhood’s culinary appeal.

Buffalo’s dining community is buzzing as it awaits Raising Cane’s debut, welcoming another fresh flavor to the city’s evolving table.

Shea’s 710 Theatre has announced its dynamic 2026-27 season, launching in September with the award-winning musical “Hair.”

Audiences can expect an eclectic lineup, including “Sweeney Todd,” “Frozen,” “The Wedding Singer,” and “Beautiful: The Carole King Musical.”

The Frey Electric series will spotlight “The SpongeBob Musical,” “Miss Holmes,” and “Mean Girls.”

Brian Higgins, Shea’s President and CEO, highlighted how this vibrant season strengthens Buffalo’s Theatre District as a hub for arts and community.

Recently, Shea’s 710 Theatre celebrated a transformational $5 million renovation, unveiling a two-story lounge, updated amenities, and a new outdoor patio overlooking Main Street.

Patrons eager for an unforgettable theater experience can reach out to Shea’s box office by phone for tickets and additional details.

Buffalo’s Best Bets This Weekend

• Monster Jam Freestyle Mania
  📅 Date: Sat, Feb 21 2026
  🕒 Time: 12:00 PM & later shows
  📍 KeyBank Center, Buffalo
  🎟️ Admission: Ticketed motorsport event
  📄 Details: High-energy monster truck action with freestyle stunts and competition, fun for families and motorsport fans alike.

• A Gentleman’s Guide To Love & Murder (Theater)
  📅 Dates: Fri 20 – Sun 22 Feb 2026
  🕒 Various showtimes (e.g., 7:30 PM Fri, 3 PM & 8 PM Sat)
  📍 Shea’s 710 Theatre, Buffalo
  🎟️ Admission: Ticketed musical comedy
  📄 Details: Catch this acclaimed Broadway musical comedy about love, murder, and outrageous antics this weekend at Shea’s.

• SNOW JAM 2026
  📅 Date: Sat, Feb 21 2026
  🕒 Time: 3:00 PM – 10:00 PM
  📍 Buffalo Irish Center, Buffalo
  🎟️ Admission: Starts around low cost (Eventbrite)
  📄 Details: Annual winter festival with live music, snowy vibes, and local performers — part of Buffalo’s winter event series.

• 42 North Brewski at Knox Farm State Park
  📅 Date: Sat, Feb 21 2026
  🕒 Time: 12:00 PM – 3:00 PM
  📍 Knox Farm State Park, East Aurora (near Buffalo)
  🎟️ Admission: Ticketed seasonal brew event
  📄 Details: Outdoor winter brewery celebration featuring tastings, socializing, and local craft breweries.

• U.S. Navy Concert Band – FREE Performance
  📅 Date: Sat, Feb 21 2026
  🕒 Time: 7:00 PM
  📍 Buffalo State Performing Arts Center, Buffalo
  🎟️ Admission: Free (reserve in advance)
  📄 Details: Enjoy a live performance from the U.S. Navy’s premier concert band as part of their national tour.

• Live Music & Nightlife at Hofbräuhaus Buffalo
  📅 Dates: Fri Feb 20 & Sat Feb 21
  🕒 Times: Vary (e.g., Live German music & DJ nights)
  📍 Hofbräuhaus Buffalo
  🎟️ Admission: Typically free or small cover
  📄 Details: Friday night DJ set and Saturday live German band performance — great for food, drinks, and social evening entertainment.

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