From Buffalo Rising - August 2007

No, it's not a freak bowling pin storm - it's just the Buffalo Jugglers at their weekly gathering in Delaware Park. Each Monday the jugglers arrive at the park bearing bowling pins, tennis balls, yo-yos, batons, diabolos and pretty much anything else that can be thrown into the air and caught. I didn't notice any chainsaws but I wouldn't be surprised.

The group is celebrating its 30th anniversary this year, and judging from the crowd I'd say they're here to stay. The statue of Abraham Lincoln by the Rose Garden was surrounded by jugglers of all ages and skill levels practicing, teaching and yes, showing off for passers-by. Though attendance varies from week to week, there's a core group of about a dozen jugglers, and group members often perform at charity events around the city.

Being what's popularly known as a klutz, I was fascinated watching the coordination, skill and balance the jugglers have developed through hours of practice. It was also interesting to check out some of the more exotic tools of the trade, such as that aforementioned diabolo.

Though the word means "devil" in Spanish, the name actually derives from the Greek words meaning "to throw across." Bust out with that at your next cocktail party and bask in the admiration! The diabolo, a large rubbery hourglass shaped object, is spun and balanced on a cord (kind of like a yo-yo) and is very popular in China.

Look, it's not as if you need an excuse to visit Delaware Park, one of Buffalo's most beloved treasures, but if you happen to be bored on a Monday evening why not go check out the Buffalo Jugglers? For more information visit their website at www.buffalojugglers.org. And if you hear a chain saw... RUN!

Aug 7th, 12:19pm By Why (Not!) Guy in Buffalo Rising