Being A Docent in Buffalo

Krystal outside the Richardson
Olmsted Complex

This year, I've taken my Buffalove to another level by training to be a docent (tour guide) in Buffalo. I went through the training program with Buffalo Tours over the winter months, and then a training with the Richardson Olmsted Complex in early spring. In late spring, I was also offered a job with Buffalo Bites Food Tours as a tour guide.  

A question I always get on my tours is "How did you get involved?". For me, The Richardson Olmsted Complex had always been a mystery. Going to college at Buffalo State, I always drove past it, heard stories about the Complex, and wondered what was going to happen to such a vast land of buildings. Last summer, they offered a short tour season, and I was lucky enough to get a spot on one of the in depth tours. From the moment I walked inside the Complex, I was in love. It may seem like an odd reaction for a mental health facility, but hearing about the history of the Complex and seeing the simple beauty in the architecture, I saw firsthand this true "gem". 

Towards the end of the tour, our tour guide mentioned they would be looking for volunteers to help at events throughout the year. I quickly grabbed a card and think I sent an e-mail before that weekend was over. I volunteered at the Museums by Moonlight event held in the Fall and then learned they would be adding a group of docents for the 2013 season. It was a no brainer. 

As for Buffalo Bites Food Tours, my boyfriend and I took a tour with the owner, Laura Reed, last summer. We had an absolute blast, and Laura and I kept in touch after the tour. Early this year, she approached me to see if I would be interested in joining her team, and I couldn't say no. The Buffalo Bites Food Tours explore the Elmwood Village of Buffalo. Throughout the three hour tour you walk to six food stops and learn about the history of Buffalo and the Elmwood Village along the way. What could possibly be better?

Since my training has been completed for both, I've had the opportunity to lead, co-lead and chaperone various tours this summer. The response has been outstanding. People are genuinely interested in Buffalo, have a passion and excitement for the way things are going in our City, and always leave the tours with a good impression. It's an incredible feeling sharing my passion for Buffalo with those around me, and I can tell they all appreciate the small additional tidbits we throw in!

Here is my "insider" perspective on tours:

Richardson Olmsted Complex - The Richardson Center Corporation, the non-profit Board that is overseeing the redevelopment efforts of the Complex, is offering over 30 public tours this summer from one hour basic tours ($15), two hour in depth tours ($30), plus photography tours, family tours and more. All tours take you through the first floor of the Towers Administration building and ward buildings, and the specialty ones add additional floors. Throughout the tours the docents discuss the history of the Complex, its key players (H.H. Richardson, Frederick Law Olmsted/Calvert Vaux and Dr. Thomas Kirkbride), the present state of the Complex and the future. 

If you don't know what's happening at the Complex, rehabilitation efforts are underway, and the Complex currently boasts a gorgeous showcase space that shows off the potential of the Complex. 

Whether you are an architectural nerd, a Buffalo history buff, or have driven past the Complex a million times but never really knew what went on there, this is a tour for you. This summer is the perfect time to get on a tour; come fall, redevelopment efforts will begin to kick into full swing and getting the before and after perspective will be an added bonus! 

If you are planning on taking a tour, my suggestion - ask questions! I always tell my tour goers that my goal is to have them learn something new about Buffalo, one of the key players of the Complex and have fun. If you are taking a tour, remember you MUST wear closed toe shoes (no flip flops or sandals). 

If you can't make a tour, get down to the Complex in August anyway. The newly redone 9 acre South Lawn will be open as a public park for all to enjoy. I've had the pleasure of watching it all come together each time I have been at the Complex this summer. The project should be completed by the end of the month and it already looks gorgeous. 

The new location of Firefly Cupcakes
is just one stop!

Buffalo Bites Food Tours - Three hours of sampling some of the best food Buffalo has to offer? If that isn't motivation enough, add the backdrop of the eclectic Elmwood Village and some Buffalo history to the mix and you have the perfect afternoon in Buffalo. Worried about eating all that food and ruining your summer diet? Don't worry, we walk almost 2 miles over the 3 hours and I've been told there are actually no calories on food tour food (actual results may vary)! 

The tour costs $42/person, although Laura posts $10 off coupon codes - check her Facebook/Twitter pages for discounts. You receive enough food to be comfortably full, with time in between food tastings to walk it off. 

Owner Laura Reed was inspired after taking a food tour with some girlfriends in New York City. Her dream was to bring that concept to Buffalo, and last summer her dream became a reality. In its 2nd year, Buffalo Bites Food Tours are gaining popularity and there have been talks of adding a second food tour in a different neighborhood in Buffalo. 

Whether you are a lifelong Buffalonian or visiting from out of town, there is really something for everyone on a Buffalo Bites Food Tour. While I've spent many days and late nights on the Elmwood Strip, and frequented many of the restaurants on the tour, Laura gives you some history on the businesses and the foods you sample, and business owners have been known to chat with patrons during the tours. 

If you are planning on taking a tour, my suggestion - try everything! Unless you have a dietary restriction (which you can let the team know about beforehand and they can accommodate you with another food selection), give everything a try. In some tasting locations you have a choice on which item you get, so pick one you never have tried before. It will make the tour that much more enjoyable. 

Be a tourist in your own City this summer, Buffalo! Make sure you bring all your out of town guests with you too! 

Ride For Roswell 2013: Pre-Ride Thoughts

Almost twelve years ago, I watched cancer take my Grandma from me. I’ll never forget the moment I found out about her diagnosis of pancreatic cancer as my Dad fought back tears telling me, “3 months to live.” This vibrant woman who cheered on the Bills at every home game, polkaed away at parties, and found time to be at all our soccer games and dance recitals, was quickly slipping away from me. 

No one in our family would ever be the same. She was the glue that kept us all together. After the night we learned of her diagnosis, it only took a few weeks before she was gone.

This is just one story, and I’m just one person, but this morning I’m riding 30 miles in memory of Carol Sondel and all the other Grandmas out there who have missed out on watching their grandchildren grow up because of cancer.

7,999 others are biking with me this morning on various routes, all with stories of loss, love and overcoming the odds.

While there will surely be tears shed as I ride through those 30 miles, there will also be a happiness I can’t quite explain. A pure joy knowing others out there want to take a stand against cancer and raised millions of dollars to help find the cure. A pride in knowing Roswell Park is in Buffalo, NY, making a difference for people all over the world.

Thank you to everyone who donated to my Ride (Dick Sondel, Bernie Youra, Debbi Testa, Sharon DeFelice, Matt Testa, Aaron Mason, Alyson O'Connor, Angela Keppel, Suzanne Kashuba, Elizabeth Kresge, Jill McAnaney, Julie Tobin, Lisa Yuhnke, Laura Reed, Steve Foster, Catherine Janese, Casey Herko & Cindy Wagner).

Thank you to all the volunteers that will cheer me on throughout the 30 miles this morning. 

A special thanks to my boyfriend, Geoffrey, who will be biking beside me through it all. 

And thanks Grandma, from wherever you are watching me. I’m so proud to be your Granddaughter, and so lucky to be a Sondel.

Follow along with me on Twitter throughout the day. Don't worry, I won't be riding and tweeting, but will post before, at rest stops and after. I'm looking forward to also serving as a Ride Marshal for the 30 mile route. To everyone participating, stay safe! Ride right, pass left!

See you at the finish line! 

#Ridespiration #RFR13

Still Lovin' On Buffalo...

The end of 2012 and the beginning of 2013 have brought about a handful of changes and new endeavors in my life. In January, I began a new full-time position as the Development & Community Relations Coordinator with Deaf Adult Services. I am continuing to stay on at St. Mary’s School for the Deaf, part-time as their Public Relations Coordinator. I have also been teaching ZUMBA classes two evenings a week.

If that wasn’t enough, I began training to become a docent (tour guide) in Buffalo in January through Buffalo Tours. My Saturday mornings have been spent expanding my knowledge on Buffalo and Western New York, and getting the chance to tour some historic places in Buffalo. In early March, my docent training will take me to my favorite building in Buffalo, the Richardson Olmstead Complex. I can’t even begin to tell you how thrilled and excited I am to be able to share my love of this Buffalo gem with fellow Western New Yorkers and visitors to the area.

With all these exciting changes in my life, I haven’t been able to keep up with Lovin’ On Buffalo as much as I had hoped. I have many interviews saved up, and many posts that I need to get out there, so I have reinvested myself in this website, and the mission of getting out the stories of WNY small business, people, restaurants and more.

Starting next week, you will regularly see new posts. For now, stories will be posted on Tuesdays and Fridays each week. I am hoping to be able to get more than two up a week, but that is a great starting point for 2013.

2012 was a special year for Lovin’ On Buffalo. I was able to help many deserving organizations through my “12 Missions in ‘12” campaign, and am going to continue to help those and other organizations in the coming year.

I was thrilled to receive some local press, and an Artvoice “Best of Buffalo” nomination for my Twitter feed linked to Lovin’ On Buffalo.

Now that I am adjusted to the changes that have been taking place in my life, I am ready to hit the ground running with Lovin’ On Buffalo again.

I look forward to sharing my love for Buffalo with all of you the rest of this year. As always, if you have a story about a local person, organization or business in WNY that deserves some free PR, please contact me!

Thanks to all of you for your support! Buffalo truly is the “City of Good Neighbors!”

Krystal's Favorite Buffalo Things - 2012

Here is year two of Krystal's "Favorite Buffalo Things" (Oprah style). The following list includes memories, food, drinks, places, meals, attractions, etc...that I experienced in 2012. 

There are 29 categories - one for every year I've been alive. The list is in no particular order...it was whatever came to me first!!

Enjoy the list!

1.) Favorite wine - Vineland Estates Sparking Riesling. During the 2012 Ice Wine Festival in Niagara on the Lake, my boyfriend and I had the chance to try this champagne for the first time. We fell in love with this. I know it's not "Buffalo", but it's close enough and I consider Niagara on the Lake our close friends!

2.) Favorite meal - Black Rock Kitchen & Bar. The meal was grilled shrimp over soft polenta with roasted cioppolini onions and Gorgonzola cheese. Throw in a lump crab and cucumber salad to start, some local Flying Bison brews and the best atmosphere in Black Rock, and it left me inspired and excited about Buffalo food. 

3.) Favorite menu item - Falafel Bar's mushroom hummus - it's a meal in itself topped with mushrooms and caramelized onions and served with warm pita bread. Perfect anytime of the year!

4.) Favorite dessert - Lake Effect Icecream's Loganberry was my favorite last year, and I can't help but put the local artisan ice cream shop back on my list this year. This summer they introduced "The Aud" a beer infused ice cream with chocolate covered peanuts. It is absolutely outstanding and is "Buffalo sports" in a scoop!

5.) Favorite cheap eat - I was absolutely honored to be selected as one of the "foodies" this year in the Buffalo Spree's November edition of Buffalo "cheap eats". In that issue, I gave my top five list, but there was one that without a doubt stands above the rest...Cantina Loco! It is the hot spot for dinner/drinks with friends after work, with family for a fun night out, and with a date. The $4 veggie quesadilla is outstanding (and loaded with veggies and cheese). The $28 pitcher of margaritas may not seem cheap, but believe me, it's an extra large pitcher that will fill a lot of glasses! 

6.) Favorite concert spot - I continue to be impressed with the work that has been done at Canalside. The venue change for Thursday in the Square (to Thursday at the Harbor) and the Buffalo Rocks the Harbor concert series have been my favorite summertime way to spend an evening. The generous space down at Canalside allows for comfort and many options. You can stand next to the water, bring a chair to sit on the grass or get up close if it is a band you really enjoy. I am excited to see what is next for Canalside in 2013!

7.) Favorite local shop - Tea Leafs WNY - As someone who starts pretty much everyday with a cup of tea, this store is a little bit of heaven to me. With probably close to 100 (or more) different loose leaf teas available for purchase, owner Sydney Hoffman has expanded the perfect niche shop, located on Main Street in Williamsville.

8.) Favorite blog - Angela Keppel's "Discovering Buffalo, One Street at a Time". The blog tackles one street in Buffalo per post and explores the history of the street, its name and more. Angela, a local urban planner, has a great passion for Buffalo and its history, and I love learning more through her eyes. Stay tuned for an upcoming post about Angela's blog and other local blogs that I enjoy reading.

9.) Favorite fundraiser - Ride For Roswell - 2012, was my first year participating in the event, and I cannot get over how well run and just beautiful the event was. I participated in honor and memory of my Grandma Sondel, who passed away in 2001 from pancreatic cancer. It was the first time I'd been on a bike in over ten years, and I was terrified with the amount of people participating that things wouldn't turn out well. Every aspect of the event is run perfectly - from food for riders, to stations to hydrate, road guards at nearly every turn, and the whole general flow for the event. Outstanding event, that raised over $3 million dollars for one of Buffalo's greatest resources. I am already looking forward to 2013's event in June!

10.) Favorite hidden gem - H.H. Richardson Complex - At around 59 acres, the complex can hardly be called "hidden" but many people don't know about the rehabilitation work going on at the complex to make it a functional space again. I had the chance to tour the inside of the complex over the summer for the first time, and it has become my Buffalo obsession of 2012. Every aspect of the building is fascinating and the architecture is so deliberate and beautiful. I am thrilled to begin docent training in January - March to learn about the building more and be able to share my passion and love for it with others in 2013. Stay tuned for dates :)

11.) Favorite "family" activity - Rotary Rink ice skating - If you haven't had the chance to go downtown to check out the ice skating rink, it is something you need to do this winter. If you own your own skates, there is no fee to skate around. Skate rentals are $2 for children and $3 for adults. There are a handful of free skate rental days as well, so check out the Buffalo Place website for more details! 

12.) Favorite community moment- I had the chance to participate in B Team Buffalo's "City of Light" event in December which decorated over 50 houses in Buffalo's Old First Ward. The extreme dedication to the City of Buffalo that the B-Team Board members (and all members and volunteers that day) was uplifting and inspiring. In addition to decorating houses, a carnival was held, giving out gifts to the local children, and dinner was served for the entire community. These type of events continue to give Buffalo its name "City of Good Neighbors" and I was thrilled to participate in it this year.

13.) Favorite "car ride away" trip - East Aurora, NY - The City of Buffalo is full of hundreds of things to do throughout the year, but on top of that, we are positioned in the state just a car ride away from so many other things. Take East Aurora for example (a 25 minute car ride) - the Main Street is filled with fun shops and restaurants where you could easily spend an afternoon...but add in the historic Roycroft Campus and you have a day filled with history too! If you head out there make sure you stop at Vidler's 5 & 10 and stop at Firefly Cupcakes for a sweet treat!

14.) Favorite outdoor spot to exercise - Canalside strikes again! What could top FREE outdoor Zumba, Pilates and Yoga classes all summer long? Working out while looking at the waterfront and getting to watch the sunset as class wraps up is definitely one of my favorite memories in 2012. If you aren't one for fitness classes, jogging along the water or walking is the perfect activity - filled with so many great sights to see (just don't stop at the ice cream stand afterwards!). I'm already looking forward the classes in 2013.

15.) Favorite local athlete - Jenn Suhr. This summer, while it was a beautiful one in Buffalo, I spent a lot of time in front of the television watching the London Summer Olympics. I followed pole vaulter Jenn Suhr's story closely and couldn't wait to watch her represent WNY and America in early August. She took home the gold and also has a silver medal from the 2008 Olympics. It was definitely a proud moment for Buffalo, and brought a tear to my eye!

16.) Favorite festival - I fell in love with the Glen Park Art Festival in Williamsville. While it's not a very large festival, the two day affair highlights local artists and has a full lineup of local musicians. Glen Park is absolutely beautiful to visit in the summer. I took my boyfriend's seven year old son to the event this year (just the two of us), and we had a blast. It was fun bonding time, and we walked away with some cool Buffalo items (and an ice cream cone from Sweet Jenny's)!

17.) Favorite "quick bite" to eat - Peking Quick One in Tonawanda. Tucked away in a plaza on Somerville Avenue (the street I grew up on) it was a hidden gem until this past year when many bloggers and food critics started reviewing it! If you want authentic cuisine

18.) Favorite "Buffalo" tour - I had the pleasure of checking out a handful of different Buffalo tours throughout the year, but I absolutely fell in love with Open Air Bus Tours. My favorite one was The Whirlwind Tour that captured many of Buffalo's architectural gems. 

19.) Favorite Buffalo political race - I might get a lot of flack for this one, as I'm not a seasoned political writer or expert. In fact, I usually make it a point to NOT talk about politics. That being said, I really enjoyed watching the race for Erie County Comptroller. Growing up, I knew the name Stefan Mychajiliw as a public relations professional (and often commented on how I wanted his job in the Ken-Ton Schools) . When I heard he was running for the position, to say I was surprised was an understatement. While I'm aware he has very little "experience" for the position, I thought his campaign was a fun public relations story to watch unfold. I'm going to be watching his new position closely and am interested to see what he can accomplish in the position. I think he can offer a lot to the City and I'm looking forward to seeing what is next!

20.) Favorite Buffalo inspired food - I had the chance to try sponge candy ice cream this summer when I took a Buffalo Bites food tour on Elmwood Avenue. The ice cream was made at Watson's, and it was incredible. Watson's did a great job incorporating the flavors, and it is the perfect indulgence on a warm Buffalo day!

21.) Favorite "sight" - I had the chance this summer to get on the water in friends boats and also aboard The Spirit of Buffalo sailboat. Whether on water or land, the Buffalo Lighthouse always makes me smile. You can enjoy it while sitting at The Hatch, or anywhere along the waterfront. It is just beautiful and I think I've photographed it from every angle possible! Check out the "Around Buffalo" tab for some shots of it through the years.

22.) Favorite not-for-profit - In its first year, Special Spaces Buffalo was able to makeover bedrooms for a handful of Buffalo children fighting diseases. The organization is solely run on donations and volunteer help and we are planning a fundraiser for them in early 2013 to fund a room makeover for a beautiful young lady. More information will be coming soon, stay tuned!!

23.) Favorite concert of 2012 - I attended a handful of free concerts throughout the year, but my favorite was O.A.R. at Artpark on August 1st. Fun venue, good crowd and great performance by one of my favorite bands. Only downside, getting out of that place is a mess!

24.) Favorite Lovin' On Buffalo moment - 2012 was a wonderful year for Lovin' On Buffalo. I had two newspaper articles written about the blog, was featured in Buffalo Spree in November and  was nominated for "Best Local Twitter Feed" in the Artvoice Best of Buffalo awards. The last one was quite a surprise to me and I couldn't be more thrilled. Social media is not only a passion of mine, but part of my job description, so to be recognized by the community (all write in votes) for this is truly awesome. While I didn't win, I had a blast at the awards ceremony with my boyfriend and am hopeful I'll be nominated again this year!

25.) Favorite "new" restaurant - I checked out so many wonderful restaurants during the year and it's impossible to list a favorite, but here's my top 3: Liberty Hound, Pan American Brewery & Cantina Loco. Each has been a great addition to the food scene in Buffalo and each offers such a different, but great atmosphere. If you haven't checked any of them out yet, make it a point to in 2013!

26.) Favorite Buffalo connection - This year, I met so many great people who really are making a difference in Buffalo. If I had to pick one I'm glad I can call a "friend", it is Robyn Zimmer, creator of the Embrace The Difference line of jewelry. Robyn's line of jewelry (I received a piece of the line for Christmas thanks to my boyfriend!) is not only gorgeous but is benefiting charities throughout WNY. Of course, there is a two degrees of separation story there too, I found out my boyfriend taught Robyn's children at Amherst High School! There's ALWAYS a Buffalo connection!

27.) Favorite street - Well Elmwood will always be my favorite street, but this past year I really got to know Hertel Avenue better. They have great restaurants, fun shops and I can always find a parking spot! Plus, The Cheesy Chick (my favorite Buffalo food truck) spends a decent amount of time on Hertel!

28.) Favorite "12 Missions in '12" Moment - I had a great time providing support to as many charities as I could in 2012. It was a lofty goal, and while the last two charities will have fundraisers that had to be pushed to early 2013, I am really proud of all I was able to accomplish. I especially LOVED dropping off the hygiene bags to Catholic Charities. The staff was so appreciative and they made me take a picture! I know they will go to good use and I'm excited to drop off a few more boxes I have put together in the past few months!

29.) Favorite Buffalo customer service moment - If you are from Buffalo you are either a Wegmans shopper or a Tops shopper. For me, it's Wegmans and I can't get enough of their customer service. They are active in social media and anytime I need something always respond back quickly. However, there were  two other occasions where I needed something and they went above and beyond. In March, my boyfriend and I were looking for small cannoli shells and they didn't have any on the shelves. A bakery worker took them out of boxes they use in the bakery and personally wrapped them up so they wouldn't break. We didn't ask her to go to all the trouble, but it was outstanding. Later in the year, one of my favorite types of sushi was not on the menu for the day, and when the sushi chef noticed me walking away they asked if there was something else they could make for me. I told them what I was looking for and they prepared a fresh roll for me within a few minutes. It was the best sushi I've had and a wonderful, wonderful customer service moment!

PHEW! 2012 was a great year for Lovin' On Buffalo and I can't thank all of our dedicated readers enough for all your support throughout the year. Here's to 2013!!

Krystal's Buffalo Summer Finds

With the change in weather this weekend, I guess I have to come to terms with the fact that summer in Buffalo is over. This past summer I explored Buffalo like never before. I had the opportunity to take a good look at the gorgeous architecture in the area, and learn about its history. Living in this area all my life, I've always known the basics, but taking the time to really get to know specific buildings and neighborhoods was an extremely fun way to spend the summer. 

Someone asked me the other day what my favorite outing of the summer was. If I really had to choose just ONE it would be number five on this list, but there were a handful of great NEW finds for me this summer. 

Here are my top five favorite things from the summer in Buffalo (in no particular order):

1.) Buffalo Bites Food Tour - With the tagline of "Eat. Explore. Experience Buffalo.", the food tour was the number one thing on my summer to-do list. I took one of the tours in July along with nine other people (four from out of town). We started the tour at The Globe Market and then went to an additional five stops over the course of two hours. Owner and tour guide, Laura Reed gave us a little history lesson on each of the food stops we made along the way. Many of the stops were places I'd already been to, but I learned something new everywhere we went. We sampled traditional Buffalo food (the chicken wing and sponge candy) and were offered other desserts, snacks and drinks along the way. The food  portions were generous and everything we tried was absolutely delicious. By the end of the tour, I was very full and satisfied! We broke up our sampling by walking around historic Elmwood learning about architecture and influential people during the time. The tour offered something for everyone. We were fortunate that it was a gorgeous summer day as we walked around and explored. The tour costs $42, and was definitely worth it. The season of tours has wrapped up, but Buffalo Bites will be back in 2013! If you have guests in from out of town, or are looking for a fun date, outing with the girls or gift, check out Buffalo Bites!

  

Sponge candy ice cream from Watson's and chicken wings from Cole's

2.) Free fitness classes at Canalside - This summer I had the opportunity to check out some of the free fitness classes offered by Canalside. Fitness enthusiasts had the chance to choose from Pilates, Yoga and Zumba classes held Monday - Wednesday evenings. I was only able to get down for a few, but the classes were an absolute blast. The ones I attended each had a great turnout and people were energetic and lively. The instructors were fun and provided a great workout, without it ever feeling like you were working out. The sun set towards the end of the classes and it was the perfect spot to be!  If you belong to a gym or take group fitness classes, this is the perfect alternative one summer night to being cooped up inside. 

Instructors from Catalyst Fitness lead a Zumba class

3.) Social Media Club Buffalo - As someone who works in social media, I wasn't even aware Buffalo had a social media club until I joined Twitter towards the end of last year! At the end of June, the club hosted "Social Media Day" inside The Statler Lobby Bar. It was a 'happy hour' type of event with food, drink and a chance to network with other local professionals. The event was a great time and I am looking forward to participating in more events with the club. They typically host monthly meetings and offer other activities throughout the year. If you work in social media in Buffalo, it's really a must join club. Buffalo is filled with professional development opportunities for whatever field you work in, you just need to do a little research!

4.) Open Air Buffalo Tours - In July, I took one of the Whirlwind Tours done by Tim Thielman from Open Air Buffalo Tours. The two hour tour was a fascinating look at different architectural hot spots in Buffalo, filled with so many great tidbits of information I didn't know about the area. The stories, the history and the plans for the future make it a must do if you are a Buffalover. If you aren't, odds are you will be after you take the tour. The tours typically run around $20, and they offer a handful of different ones throughout the summer months. 

     

City Hall and The Guaranty Building in Buffalo

5.) The H.H. Richardson Complex - I've always been fascinated with the Complex, but in August I had the opportunity to take an in-depth tour of the facilities and I've fallen completely in love with the property and its history since. The complex, put simply, is a masterpiece. It's a reminder that Buffalo was and can be again an extremely prosperous city where builders want to build. I had the opportunity to volunteer at Museums by Moonlight in September, and spent the evening talking about the building, and seeing people's faces light up when they walked in it for the first time. The Complex will be offering more tours next year, and this winter will begin training docents (myself included!). The Complex is currently being rehabilitated and restored. By 2015 it will become a boutique hotel and the Buffalo architecture center. The progress they have made so far is outstanding. Outside the building they are creating a new public park, which should be open in 2013. It is truly a testament to the strong group of preservationists in the area. 

Fall in Buffalo and the surrounding area is beautiful too, and as I finish up this post, I'm getting ready to go pumpkin picking and check out the leaves in the area. I can't say I'm quite ready for winter yet, but I'm looking forward to posting my Fall Finds later this year!

Stay tuned!

Are You Ready For Some Football, Buffalo??

There are a lot of great Buffalo sports blogs out there, and I am definitely not one of them. While I feel very confident in my ability to talk sports on a high level, I am a fan first and foremost. I have an allegiance to my teams, win or lose, and while I'm known to rattle off swear words at my television during games, I'll almost always defend my teams in public. 

I very rarely report on local sports even though Buffalo's sporting venues are where much of my free time is spent. As a season ticket holder for both the Buffalo Bills and Buffalo Sabres, I invest a lot of my time and money in these two entities.

This Sunday, the Buffalo Bills will kick off the season away against The New York Jets. It's just a "game" people tell me on a daily basis, but the Bills are more than just a team in Buffalo, they are a way of life. 

Like so many people in this area, my love of sports was passed down from previous generations. Both my Grandpas and my Dad were die hard fans, and it didn't take long for me and my brothers to follow suit.  Sundays were always spent in front of the television and the Super Bowl was more than a game, it became a holiday where special food was purchased and we were allowed to stay up late. 

Every season I start out with a pretty high level of what I like to call "reserved optimism". There were years when I honestly thought they wouldn't be good, but my optimism carried me through, at least the first half of the first game. Being a Bills fan is a roller coaster of emotions. Over the past few seasons there have been times when we started out great: 5-0 one year, then beating the New England Patriots to take us to 3-0 early last season, and most of Buffalo had us playoff bound (myself included). Slowly as things started to spiral out of control both of those years, and in other recent years, the "same old Bills" attitude many Buffalonians have came out from hiding. 

This season feels different to me. As I listen to player and coach interviews, I get a different vibe from this team. They sound like they are more comfortable with the system. They talk as though they are more confident in themselves and their teammates. Management has invested in the team and made key acquisitions throughout the off season. During the preseason games there were glimpses (very short ones) of some incredible plays and drives and it leaves me extremely hopeful for this season. Even some nationally known media personalities have picked the Bills to make it to the playoffs this year. 

So while I won't make any bold predictions on the season, here are my Bills expectations for 2012:
I expect them to win more games than last year. 
I expect Fitzpatrick and Stevie to give us more moments where we rewind our television sets to see passes/catches over and over again. 
I expect Freddy to break through tackles and find the holes en route to a Pro Bowl season.
I expect the defense to be top 5 in the league.
I expect the offensive line to continue to drive me crazy.
I expect the cornerbacks to have difficulty.
I expect they will be playing "meaningful" football far into the season. 

As I wake up Sunday morning, my life will feel complete again. For the next 17 weeks (at least), I'll wake up on Sunday and know that I get to spend a few hours watching the team I love, with the people I love. I'll reconnect with friends I haven't seen enough over the summer and won't be able to keep up with the amount of text messages I receive/send. I'll reach out to the ever growing Bills Mafia family and make new friends as I tailgate away at The Ralph and tweet during the games. I'll laugh, I'll cheer and I'll probably cry too!

So here's to another football season in Buffalo! Let's Go Bills!!

Bills Home Opener 2011

One Year of Lovin' On Buffalo

Today officially marks the ONE year "birthday" of Lovin' On Buffalo! I've had such a great time spreading the word about Buffalo and Western New York, and have met a lot of interesting people along the way. 

In year one, we kicked off our "12 Missions in '12" campaign, received some nice local media coverage, and posted 73 blogs about Buffalo. I tried over 20 "new" (well new to me) restaurants, was able to help spread the word about more than 10 not-for-profits in the area, and pointed out a bunch of great spots for Buffalonians and visitors to check out. 

I've been fortunate enough to receive some great feedback from the community through comments on the blog, emails from strangers and conversations with friends and family. 

It's truly been a year of Buffalove for me, and I cannot say thank you enough for all your support, kind words, and story ideas! Buffalo has been the "City of Good Neighbors" to me for my 29 years of existence, and I am so thankful that I have an outlet to give back to the community. 

So what's next for Lovin' On Buffalo? I guess, with a great first year under my belt, I have some high expectations for the coming year. 1.) Double the amount of blogs posted, 2.) Continue to work on "12 Missions in '12", 3.) Try out at least 20 more restaurants and 4.) Create a project for 2013 to help additional not-for-profits!  


Here's to another great year of Lovin' On Buffalo!!!

Unique First Date Ideas In WNY - Krystal's Picks

I was in a relationship for a long time. About ten years to be exact, so when that relationship ended and I was thrown into the dating world for the first time in my adult life, I was kind of lost on where to start. A few friends suggested I try online dating, so I gave it a shot.

I had no clue what I was really looking for, but I knew I wanted someone who loved this area, and loved exploring it as much as I do. Besides that, my only pre-requisites were that they were a Buffalo sports fan and that our first date included more than just dinner or drinks or a cup of tea.

I went out on a lot of first dates in the past few years, and to be honest, a lot of good ones. With the exception of someone wanting to take me out to Mighty Taco on a first date, (I respectfully declined) I can honestly say I didn’t have any horrible experiences! It can be hard to put yourself out there, but I’m so glad I did because I’ve definitely found a keeper!

A few days ago, while I was reading the book “Buffalo Gals” by Amy Strychasz, I started thinking about first dates and thought a great blog post would be about unique first date ideas in Buffalo and WNY.

First dates can be awkward. They are filled with all the basic “getting to know you” questions, and sometimes dinner or drinks where the focus is solely on that can be difficult. I am an active person, I like exploring and I like being on the go, so I came up with my top five list of unique first date spots for all your singles out there looking for a great date idea!

In no particular order…

1.)    The Buffalo Zoo – I went to the Buffalo Zoo on a first date and it was a great time. I hadn’t been to the Zoo since I was little, and walking around, on a gorgeous summer day, and exploring the Zoo was a perfect way to get to know someone. It made for a bunch of laughs and honestly, I learned a decent amount about the guy I was walking around with (and the animals)!

2.)    Niagara Falls – My boyfriend, Geoffrey, suggested Niagara Falls for our first date, and I have to admit I was a little nervous about it all. We met up outside The Hard Rock Café on the American side and walked across the border and along the Falls on the Canadian Side. How many times can you say you needed your passport for a first date? It is an incredibly romantic place for a walk, and a first kiss in front of one of the 7 Wonders of the World isn’t too shabby either!

3.)    JP Bullfeathers on Elmwood – Yes it is a place to eat and get drinks, but when I went on a first date there we played darts and then took a walk down the Elmwood strip. Nothing like a little friendly competition on your first date. The drink prices aren’t bad either, and the food is pretty good! Split a couple appetizers and a few beers, play some darts and enjoy.

4.)    Niawanda Park – Pack some snacks and enjoy the water, or walk up to Mississippi Muds or Old Man River for some ice cream. There is a really nice path along the waterfront to walk on, or if you are really adventurous, bring your bike or roller blades! Maybe you will even get lucky and your date will have a boat! 

5.)    Albright Knox Art Gallery – it’s the perfect year round place to visit. Even if you aren’t a lover of art, it’s a fun place to check out and it's always interesting trying to decipher art pieces! If it isn't snowing out or too cold, you can always follow it up with a walk down by my favorite place in Buffalo, Hoyt Lake!  

If you aren't as adventurous as me, and prefer dinner or drinks, here are my choices for top five restaurants to check out on a first date: Toro Tapas Bar, Black Rock Kitchen & Bar, Cecelia's, Encore and if you share a common love of beer, Blue Monk! 

I figure I should follow up the "where to go" list with some places I don’t recommend going to on a first date. First of all, I don’t recommend your first date be to one of the awesome summer festivals in Buffalo. Check those out with your friends and family instead! Odds are you are going to run into about 20 people you know at every festival you check out. It can make for awkward moments introducing who you are with! Since I'm a huge sports fan and my world kind of revolves around the Bills and Sabres, I'm not big on taking someone to a sporting event early on in a relationship. And guys, please don't offer Mighty Taco as your first date meeting place. Don't get me wrong, I love Mighty, and I'm sure you do too, but splurge for Cantina Loco instead!

I feel like I could keep rambling on about places to go, but this gives you some great options, especially some summer date options! There are so many great, romantic and fun places to check out with a date, so if you find yourself in a dating rut or need some adventure in your life, shake things up and get out and explore Buffalo and WNY with your next "first" date!


Don't forget to report back to me on how things went! Happy dating!