A new street sign hangs in Buffalo just a few yards from where a cherished local entertainer performed for many years. That sign at the intersection of Elmwood Avenue and West Utica Street advises passersby that they are on Lance Diamond Way.
The sign was unveiled Friday afternoon in a ceremony led by Buffalo Common Councilmember David Rivera, Mayor Byron Brown and included remarks by the late entertainer's nephew, Daryl Counts.
He pointed out in his comments that Buffalo lacked streets that were known as "ways." He continued by saying it was as rare as a hope diamond, or "a Lance Diamond."
"When you have something that's rare, you have unique qualities, unique characteristics," said Counts. "Lance Diamond was rare. One of a kind."
The sign bearing Diamond's name is located in the same intersection as the site of the former Elmwood Lounge (now Milkie's), where the singer performed for many years and developed a strong, loyal following.
Also on hand to celebrate the new sign and Diamond's legacy were representatives of the organization Music Is Art, which announced a new scholarship program in Lance Diamond's memory.
That scholarship, explained Music Is Art executive director Tracy Shattuck, is available to students in grades 9 through 12 and can be applied to music lessons, summer camps or higher education.
"Essay questions include things such as 'what role does music play in your life?' and 'how will use your knowledge, talent and skills to give back or pay it forward?' just as Lance did," Shattuck said.
Diamond's career spanned four decades and included gigs at local lounges as well as radio hosting. He also collaborated with the Buffalo-based Goo Goo Dolls, recording and performing live with the rock band.
He performed in an annual New Year's Eve show but was forced to cancel his scheduled December 31, 2014 event due to illness.
He died of heart complications on January 4, 2015 at the age of 69.
