The News, Eats & Events Shaping Western New York

The WNY Women’s Foundation will hold its annual Leadership Summit on Friday, May 29, at the University at Buffalo’s Center for the Arts.

Registration starts at 8:00 AM, with sessions running through early afternoon.

Participants will take part in specialized workshops on leadership styles, active listening, and nurturing supportive workplaces, designed for professionals at all career stages.

Last year, nearly 900 attended, so early registration is strongly encouraged.

Tickets range from $55 for aspiring leaders to $125 for SHE-Suite and Ally levels.

Meanwhile, Urban Planet is debuting its first regional store at Fashion Outlets of Niagara Falls on Friday, May 22, occupying a 20,000-square-foot space near entrance 6.

Also, the Brothers of Mercy has named Matt McDougall, a U.S. Army veteran with almost 30 years’ experience, as the new Administrator for its Clarence care center.

Buffalo Fashion Week marks its 10th anniversary with a vibrant celebration of fashion and creativity, drawing regional and international attention.

The highlight event, The Bare Maximum, unfolds on May 15 at Babeville, 341 Delaware Avenue, promising an immersive runway experience from 6:00 PM to 9:00 PM that boldly reimagines maximalism.

Featuring designers and models from Toronto, New York City, and Pennsylvania, this year’s showcase reflects Buffalo’s rising influence in the fashion world.

An intimate designer event kicks off the week on May 11 at the Buffalo History Museum, and festivities culminate with an after-party at Oakk House following the main runway show.

Industry Day on May 17 offers networking, panels, and interactive features, strengthening connections across the local fashion community.

Buffalo Fashion Week continues to energize the city’s evolving style scene and spotlight emerging talent.

Clint Holmes, a renowned member of the Buffalo Music Hall of Fame, is returning to Western New York for an 80th birthday celebration concert.

Titled “In Joy: A Birthday Homecoming Concert,” the event is set for Sunday, May 17, at 3 p.m. at North Tonawanda’s historic West Herr Riviera Theatre.

Raised in Farnham, New York after being born in England, Holmes is best known for his 1973 hit “Playground in My Mind” and his acclaimed Las Vegas residency.

The performance will feature songs by James Taylor, Lennon & McCartney, Stevie Wonder, and classics from Sinatra and Bennett, alongside Holmes’ own heartfelt originals inspired by his diverse family roots.

This special afternoon promises a moving musical journey and a heartfelt homecoming for one of Western New York’s greatest talents.

Tickets can be purchased at the Riviera Theatre box office.

🍃 A Plant Lover’s Guide to WNY

• 🌿 Daddy’s Plants — Buffalo
  Trendy, design-forward plant shop packed with rare tropicals, statement plants, and stylish pots. A favorite for plant collectors and apartment plant lovers alike.

• 🪴 Put A Plant On It — Buffalo
  Cozy neighborhood shop with healthy houseplants, cute accessories, and a welcoming vibe. Perfect for gifts or beginner plant parents.

• 🌸 Lockwood’s Greenhouses & Farm — Hamburg
  Massive greenhouse destination with everything from annual flowers to veggie starters and indoor plants. One of the best spring plant-shopping experiences in WNY.

• 🌱 Mischler’s Florist & Greenhouses — Williamsville
  A longtime local favorite known for classic greenhouse charm, quality flowers, and knowledgeable staff who actually know plants.

• 🐝 Urban Roots Cooperative Garden Market — Buffalo
  Community-focused garden center specializing in native plants, edible gardens, and pollinator-friendly landscaping. Great spot for eco-conscious gardeners.

• 🌼 Hi-Way Garden Center — Amherst
  Huge selection of outdoor plants, shrubs, flowers, and landscaping materials. Ideal if you’re upgrading your yard, patio, or garden beds.

• 🍅 Lavocat’s Family Greenhouse & Nursery — Amherst
  Family-owned greenhouse loved for colorful hanging baskets, vegetable plants, herbs, and affordable seasonal flowers.

• 🌴 The Plant Shack — East Aurora
  Boutique-style plant shop with trendy tropical plants, modern décor, and an Instagram-worthy setup that still feels approachable.

• 🌳 Murray Brothers Nurseries — Orchard Park
  Best known for landscaping trees and shrubs, but also a strong destination for outdoor gardening projects and larger property upgrades.

• 🌺 Niagara Produce Garden Center — Elma
  Surprisingly strong plant selection with affordable flowers, herbs, hanging baskets, and seasonal garden favorites alongside its produce market atmosphere.

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