Sad Weekend

Val and I are up early today to attend the funeral of Rocco A. Celeste of East Amherst, retired Buffalo firefighter, former Muscular Dystrophy Association leader and, most importantly, father of our dear friend, Pine Dogs and former Outlyers drummer Jim Celeste, as well as father to another son and daughter, husband and grandfather.
We are also mourning the loss of Buffalo News reporter and incredible all-around person Jay (John F.) Bonfatti, who died Wednesday night while on vacation with his family in Cape Cod, Mass. One of the most friendly, conversant, talented repoters and major music, sports and food fans around, he has left a large group of sad friends in the wake his death. I will try to write something a bit more deserving of Jay later today.