Straight from The Horse’s Mouth

I heard a joke a few weeks ago - no offense to any group is intended - "How many Texans does it take to change a light bulb? What? You want to CHANGE the light bulb? My grandfather DONATED that light bulb!" It's a familiar cry - Tradition! It reminds me of the complexity in getting things done in a group, whether it be a church, business or even in a small town setting. Long established practices are difficult to update.

Tradition is the thread that intertwines a people; it shows us who we are, and is a comfortable constant. Most people feel fear when change threatens. We dislike the unknown because it brings a sense of a loss of control. This is normal. Yet productive societies are the ones who are able to maintain their traditions, while forging ahead caring for the future.

Those who've been in Buffalo for generations and the Move-ins are here for the same reasons: the slower pace, the intimate country lifestyle. We reject the frenetic schedule of city life, enjoying quality time with friends and family while managing our livestock, tending our gardens, and doing business in a close community.

Buffalo is at a crossroads, both psychologically and physically. Our geographic location lends the ability to attract commerce that supports families. We need to step out of our comfort zone and allow new ideas for our town to flourish. Our wealth of creative and fearless people can champion progress while retaining our country feel. We have the foundation. We can thrive, both emotionally and economically, all the while maintaining the traditions that keep us here.

The Spring Fling is right around the corner with a number of down-home activities such as a fiddler's contest, horse-shoe tournament, a cook-off and more. It will take place on May 1st at Harriman Park.

We can make our Buffalo Stampede even more traditional and successful. For instance, it has been suggested that we dress in western wear, both current and 'old-fashioned'. (Think prairie skirts and Sunday-go-tomeetin' silk ties) My uncle and his wife started wearing Victorian costumes during Woodville's "Dickens in the Country". It's a tradition now, one that has caught on making their Christmas celebrations more popular than ever.

The Stagecoach Deli hosts the next meeting for the BBoBB group (Bawdy Band of Buffalo Businesses, aka 'that start-up-group') on the 22nd at 6:00pm. (The public is invited.) We are a handful of local business owners who are energized about Buffalo's potential, and excited to be on the front lines. We are developing new ideas and are looking forward to making things happen.

We intend to update our town for success, but also wish to maintain our time honored traditions. Here's to celebrating grandpa's light bulb while showing a new generation how to prosper Buffalo Style.