A Life Gone to the Dogs

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Location: Buffalo, New York, United States

My wife and I share our home with 3 greyhounds, 3 cats, occasional foster dogs, and devote much of our free time to finding homes for retired racing greyhounds.

Monday, June 23, 2008

Greyhound Bubble Bath Fundraiser

Twice a year we hold a bubble bath fundraiser for Buffalo Greyhound Adoption. This past Sunday for $15 owners got their dogs washed and nails trimmed, and all the proceeds went to the group. Merchandise was also available, (decorative collars and leads) as were snacks.




Thursday, June 19, 2008

Squash that Squaw Island retreat! :o

Bike Path Robbers Take $20 From Walker
Source: The Buffalo News
Updated: 06/19/08 10:45 AM

A man walking on a bike path Wednesday was surrounded by three men on bikes who robbed him at knifepoint, Buffalo police reported today.

Northwest District police said the victim was walking north on the bike path at the foot of Niagara Street, near the International Bridge, when the three bicyclists approached and one of them kicked him on the back of his knee.

The robber with the knife rifled his pockets, stealing the victim's $20, lighter and cigarettes, police reported. The victim then ran.

The three robbers were described as in their late teens.

As always, maintain your situational awareness - even during daylight hours, exercise a reasonable level of caution (especially if you are approached by a group of young males) and report any suspicious activity directly to Central Dispatch at 9-1-1.

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Also, just the other day in Riverside, about a mile from where I work, a guy was leaving for work around 6:30 am and was attacked by someone with a brick. A BRICK! It's almost Monty Python like in a way except it's true.

Tuesday, June 17, 2008

Lunchtime Retreats II - Squaw Island

Who would think such a secluded, peaceful setting as Squaw Island Park could be found in Blackrock. Travel time: 5 minute walk from work.

(Squaw Island Park)


(Crossing the swing bridge)


(An old rail building opposite the swing bridge on the way to the island. Right next to my office.)

Tuesday, June 03, 2008

Poor Ould Goat review

A nice, unsolicited review of our last gig at The Shannon Pub, courtesy of Emily Dulanski (on buffalo.com). Thank's Emily!
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From the first acoustic chord over the din of the pub, "Poor Ould Goat"'s performance at Shannon's Pub Friday night went beyond background music and became the focus of the customers.

This Celtic rock band obviously derives its inspirations from the Irish culture, but their talented members play more than the classic "drinking songs." Although they appear to be four guys just having fun, they show knowledge of Irish music as well as fantastic musicianship.

Much of the band's music seemed to be arrangements of well-known Irish tunes and instrumentals. However, in addition to putting their own slightly modernized twist on these classic pieces, members of "Poor Ould Goat" have also written their own pieces in the spirit of Irish music.

Most of the musicians of "Poor Ould Goat" are capable of playing more than one instrument, as well. Instruments were changed in between or even during songs to get different effects. Among these were a small flute, a banjo, an accordion, an array of drums, and a guitar. This was quite an interesting mix between the classic and modern instruments.

Powerful vocals coupled with tempo changes kept the music interesting to listen to. Lyrics that told stories and a heavy downbeat kept the mood fun and light-hearted, like a dance. Many customers added to the atmosphere by clapping and all seemed involved with the performance.

"Poor Ould Goat" had a stage presence to match their performance. They were very relaxed and made jokes in between songs, such as offering a round of applause for their new matching beer holders. Their conversational tone and easy-going nature made the audience more comfortable.

The cheerful music of "Poor Ould Goat" was easy to listen to and well-fitting an Irish pub like Shannon's. They are a good band to turn to when in search of a peaceful evening.