Ryan Miller's Fabulous Fifties Fundraiser

Ryan Miller's swanky "Catwalk for Charity" has quickly become a "must-attend" event on Buffalo's social calendar over the past three winters.  The Sabres netminder has hosted themed-parties to raise money for Miller's Steadfast Foundation--an organization that supports families whose children are battling diseases. The previous events have greatly contributed to the foundation, raising over $500,000 the past three years, and are packed to the rafters with Buffalo's fabulous socialites.

On the verge of the 2009-10 season, Miller announced plans for the next "Catwalk for Charity." With New-Era Cap's Christopher and Lindsey Koch as the event's honorary co-chairs, the event will take on a "Fabulous 50s" theme. Queen City event planner Therese Forton-Barnes will once again have the Town Ballroom and their patrons hark back to the days when Ford Thunderbirds ruled the streets and poodle skirts and grease-slicked hair were a big part of your personal appearance.  This year, the party's fourth edition will happen on Sunday, November 8, 2009 at the Town Ballroom in downtown Buffalo.  The event has traditionally been held in the late winter months, but due to a compressed NHL schedule an earlier date was selected.

A fashion catwalk featuring Miller's Sabres teammates has become the event's signature activity and namesake, however it becomes pale in comparison to what the entire event is about.  Simply by walking in the door, attendees realize that they are not at an everyday fundraiser. And as a tribute to how beloved Miller is by the region, the event is a who's who from the Buffalo community. It's nothing to see sports stars mingling with political figures and mixing it up with a Hollywood celebrity or two. The city's finest restaurants always rise to the occasion at this event and will be onhand throughout the venue, serving their favorite dishes.  The Catwalk's live and silent auction is an event in itself, with some of Buffalo's biggest spenders battling it out for jaw-dropping items.

As always, if you're attending a big shindig such as "Catwalk," you have to dress the part. 1950s attire is encouraged, but any fun, funky attire is accepted, including anything from shoptherefinery.com. Prizes will be awarded to the best male and female1950s outfits.

Many sponsorship and ticket opportunities are available here. A limited amount of individual tickets will be available for sale to the public on October 12, 2009. 

Image by Joe Cascio