To paraphrase the legendary Buffalo newscaster, Irv Weinstein, “It was a raucous scene on Buffalo’s West Side last night…” And it was! Over at Sweetness_7 Cafe, on the corner of Grant and Lafayette, the first of three Holiday soirees to raise money for the local less fortunate was recently held. And, Mama Mia!, what a fete! The themed evening, Thursday night’s being the 70’s, brought out the vivid orange velour hot-pants and white patent leather platform boots with a vengeance! The Tramps “Disco Inferno” could be heard up and down the Grant Street as the night was danced away and money was raised for those in need.
How did this come about? Well, a little background: Last year, just as it opened, and after hearing the story of a family that was in dire need of a miracle for Christmas, the folks at Sweetness_7 threw together an impromptu gathering that raised well over two thousand dollars and gave that family the miracle, and the Christmas, they needed. People were motivated, a difference was made, and hearts were touched.
Given all that, and as the holidays were on their way this year, well, the proposition was put forth: why not do it again – only bigger! And therein lies the birth of “Share the Holidays – Share the Love!”, the name given to this series of very fortunate events! And Thursday’s blowout was just the first. There are two more events on subsequent Thursday evenings, the 10th & the 17th of December: Holidays With the Heroes – A chance to mingle, and boogie, with local first responders AND A Motown Christmas – Let the music warm your heart and move your feet for a good cause. All the proceeds from these galas will be anonymously donated to West Side families in need.
If you’re interested in attending, or have a suggestion for families in need on the West Side, give Sweetness_7 a call at 716-883-1738 or check out their Facebook page for more info. Or just stop in, especially now that they are staying open until 9pm Monday thru Saturday!
So, come on down! Have some fun! Make a difference! It’s the Holidays, damn it!