The News, Eats & Events Shaping Western New York

Lucas West, a SUNY Fredonia senior specializing in Jazz Studies, answered a call that would change his life as he parked in Lot 9D.

He’d been selected to audition for 'The Voice', a moment built on years of dedication and standout performances.

From recording Billy Joel's 'New York State of Mind' in Mason Hall to impressing executive producers, West advanced through multiple audition stages.

His local spotlight, including national anthem performances at Buffalo Bills games, gave him an edge when he faced the show's judges.

During his blind audition, West captivated both Adam Levine and John Legend with Elton John’s 'Bennie and the Jets,' ultimately joining Legend’s team thanks to his soulful vocals and piano work.

He credits supportive Fredonia faculty and ensemble experiences for shaping his artistry, celebrating a journey that now inspires his campus and community.

Antiques Roadshow is making its debut at the Genesee Country Village & Museum in Mumford on June 17, 2026, inviting guests to discover the hidden stories and values behind their prized possessions.

Locals will have the rare chance to meet expert appraisers and receive free verbal evaluations from seasoned auction house professionals and independent dealers.

Each attendee with a ticket can bring up to two items for appraisal, but advance registration is required, with one pair of tickets available per household through a sweepstakes that closes April 6, 2026.

This event coincides with the museum’s 50th anniversary, which features year-long festivities, including the 28th Annual Antiques & Artisans Show on May 2.

For tickets and details, visit the Roadshow or museum website.

Don’t miss a chance to be part of history and celebrate local heritage!

Nestled in Colden, New York, the Buffalo Ski Center has blossomed from a modest family-run club into a thriving local hub for skiers of all levels and ages.

Founded in 1931 by eight families, the center now spans 43 trails over 300 acres, a growth fueled by merging with Sitzmarker Ski Club and Ski Tamarack.

Its freestyle skiing program shines, with 14 alumni advancing to the U.S. Ski Team or Olympics—including Matthew DePeters, an Olympic veteran who recently served as a coach for the 2026 Winter Games in Italy.

Focusing on moguls, aerials, and ski cross, the center’s aerials athletes wow crowds with daring jumps, preparing competitors for global stages.

The annual “Cabin Fever” fundraiser on April 25, featuring tastings, music, and raffles, strengthens local ties and supports the freestyle team.

Now part of the Indy Pass for the 2025/2026 season, the center advances its legacy as a cornerstone of Western New York skiing, connecting tradition with new opportunity.

Out & About in Buffalo: Weekend Edition

• Macbeth – A classic Shakespeare play

  • 📅 When: Fri, Mar 6 & Sat, Mar 7

  • 🕒 Time: Various showtimes (day & evening)

  • 📍 Location: UB Center for the Arts – Drama Theatre, Buffalo

  • 🎟️ Admission: Varies by show

  • 📄 Details: Experience this intense tragedy performed live in classic staging — a great cultural outing for theater fans.

God of Carnage – Dramatic comedy performance

• • 📅 When: Fri, Mar 6 & Sat, Mar 7

  • 🕒 Time: 7:30–8:30 pm

  • 📍 Location: Shea’s Smith Theatre, Buffalo

  • 🎟️ Admission: Varies by performance

  • 📄 Details: Two couples meet to resolve a playground conflict — things quickly spiral into hilarious chaos.

Lords of the Sound Orchestra: The Music of Hans Zimmer – Orchestral music concert

• • 📅 When: Sat, Mar 7

  • 🕒 Time: 7:00 pm

  • 📍 Location: Shea’s Performing Arts Center, Buffalo

  • 🎟️ Admission: Ticketed

  • 📄 Details: Enjoy iconic film scores performed live by a full orchestra

INZO with Know Good – Live music show

• • 📅 When: Sat, Mar 7

  • 🕒 Time: 8:00 pm

  • 📍 Location: Town Ballroom, Buffalo

  • 🎟️ Admission: Ticketed

  • 📄 Details: Local/indie music performance with opening act Know Good.

Orchid & Art Exhibits at Botanical Gardens – Arts & culture display

• • 📅 When: Sat & Sun, Mar 7–8

  • 🕒 Time: Daytime hours (varies)

  • 📍 Location: Buffalo and Erie County Botanical Gardens

  • 🎟️ Admission: Admission to exhibits (Botanical Gardens entry fee)

  • 📄 Details: See beautiful orchid displays, works by AP Gorny, Millie Chen, Victoria-Idongesit Udondian, and more in rotating art exhibits.

JazzBrunch Sundays at Delaware Park – Music & brunch

• • 📅 When: Sun, Mar 8

  • 🕒 Time: 11:30 am–2:30 pm

  • 📍 Location: Terrace at Delaware Park (Marcy Casino)

  • 🎟️ Admission: Free

  • 📄 Details: Enjoy jazz music with food and drinks — a relaxed Sunday vibe.

Explore & More Play Day

• 📅 Date: Saturday, March 7, 2026

• 🕒 Time: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM

• 📍 Location: Explore & More - The Ralph C. Wilson, Jr. Children's Museum

• 🎟️ Admission: Included with general admission (discounts for members)

• 📄 Details: Spend the day exploring interactive exhibits designed for kids of all ages! From hands-on science experiments and creative art stations to imaginative play spaces and climbing structures, this is a perfect indoor adventure for families looking to stay warm and active this weekend.

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