While we may not like to talk about it at the dinner table, mental illnesses are real and prevalent in our nation, and approximately half of us will have a mental health diagnosis at some point in our lives. And what better time to talk about it than during May, which is also known nationally as Mental Health Month.

It’s no secret that all Americans experience times of difficulty and stress in their lives, and you and I are not exempt from the problems of daily life. When our troubles begin to overtake our mental health, we should all feel comfortable in seeking help and support to manage these times in a compassionate, judgement-free way. 

Vendors are currently being sought for the first annual Collectors’ Expo, a unique event to take place from 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 9, in the historic Buffalo Irish Center, 245 Abbott Road, South Buffalo.

“We envision the event to be something like ‘American Pickers’ under one roof, featuring sports memorabilia, coins, stamps, antiques, original art, trains, toys, bottles, comic books, music and theatre memorabilia, and more,” said Joe Kirchmyer of West Seneca, organizer of the event. “Everyone collects something … and there will definitely be something there for everyone.”

Local entertainment — including two special appearances by the Buffalo Philharmonic String Quartet — will be among the highlights of the 2017 Elmwood Village Farmers Market, which will take place every Saturday from May 13 through Nov. 25 at the corner of Elmwood Avenue and Bidwell Parkway in Buffalo’s historic Elmwood Village.

The market will feature entertainment from approximately 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. each week, unless otherwise noted. Following is the 2017 lineup, subject to change and weather conditions.

May 13: No Illusions, Acousticopia

May 20: Tina Marie Williams, David Adamczyk

May 27: Chris Jones, Porcelain Train

June 3: Nickel City String Band, Rockabilly Steve and BR3