Author: Elena Cala Buscarino

The Brookings Institution’s Metropolitan Policy Program has published its list of the top ten most noteworthy urban and demographic trends affecting U.S. metropolitan regions in 2006. The Metropolitan Policy Program’s mission is to produce independent research and promote effective policy agendas for improving the health and prosperity of U.S. cities and metropolitan areas. These demographic trends present challenges and opportunities for policy makers in WNY and across the nation.

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The good news continues to roll in. Business First is reporting that Amherst has been selected for a major expansion by Citicorp. Officials involved with the project have not confirmed that a deal has been struck however. The financial services giant has apparently chosen Uniland Development’s CrossPoint Business Park for a data center that could employ up to 400 new workers. WNY beat out locations in Toronto, Long Island and Chicago for the project. Citicorp would occupy a new 156,000 sq.ft. office building in the business park that is located off of North French Road at the I-290. The firm…

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One of the city’s largest redevelopment sites is ready for new businesses or owners. 170 acres of the former Republic Steel plant in South Buffalo are on the market for $50,000/acre or $8.5 million for its entirety. One buyer is already interested- the Buffalo Urban Development Corporation. The City agency is exploring acquisition of the site and subsequently seeking developers and end-users for the property.

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Chez Ann, a salon with a sterling 21-year reputation in Williamsville has opened a new location at Delaware and Chippewa, in the same building as Starbucks. Owner, Ann Freer-Caroll opened her original shop at the age of 21 and has been growing ever since in this business that she loves. “I’m a stand-behind-the-chair owner,” she said. “And I’m ready to cut hair at seven-thirty in the morning for my clients who have to go to work. They’re working…I’m working.” Freer-Caroll says she came downtown for a few reasons, not the least of which is the fact that her brother, Tim…

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Get involved. Working For Downtown is holding a post holiday social and reception at the Chocolate Bar on January 29th. The gathering will provide a good way to meet members and become involved in this volunteer community organization, made up of concerned and knowledgeable professionals who want to effect a positive change in downtown Buffalo. From their website: Our power will be derived from the leadership of our members through their active participation, diverse skills, talents, ability to work together, and dedicated interest in the vitality of downtown Buffalo. The end product of our vision will be a downtown which…

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A group of Nardin Elementary students visited the City Animal Shelter on Oak Street today. The seventh and eighth girls were hoping to wash some puppies, but it turned into a day of visiiting with dry puppies who needed some socializing. The girls didn’t mind so much, and neither did the puppies, who enjoy a chance to frolic. Teacher Katie Daly explained that sometimes, pups are surrendered by the boxful and need TLC along with a bath and various other medical and grooming concerns. Kids and puppies; it’s a natural match, and this little guy, named Shane, was up for…

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Where, outside of the Roycroft, would you expect to find an artists,Aeo colony? How about a modern day version at 1219 Main Street? Artspace Buffalo is interested in filling the renovated (36 unit) and new-build (24 unit) site with working artists who fall into a need-based category for affordable housing. There will be a total of 60 loft/work spaces for those who qualify. Imagine the power of living within a building with others who are like-minded about their creative passions. They could call this dream come true: Nirvana on Main. The project is right on time with a July or…

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Jim Tudini is bringing his 12-piece band to Shanghai Red’s tonight to usher in the New Year. Jimmy has put a book together that covers everything from ballads to rock, to Motown, as well as Winwood, Sinatra, Midler, and Chicago (and he’s got the brass to do it well). Couples can either enjoy the sit-down dinner package, or come later just to dance. Call 852-7337 for information and reservations. The Tudini Band doesn’t just play the party–they are the party.

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Sunday was a mob scene today. The feel-good board shop was full of happy skate fans who love their sport, though co-proprietor, JP Gillespie, is quick to point out that it’s more of a lifestyle than a sport. True. Along with splashy boards and gear, you’ll find a lot of sound philosophy intermingled with the good times. On Potomac near Elmwood, Sunday is one of the most positive places happening. It doesn’t matter what age you are,Aeithey don’t dis’ the dinosaurs or talk down to young people. Co-owner, Jim Cielencki, doesn’t say a lot at all, but the BMX king’s…

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Maria Love (1840-1931) was a Buffalo visionary and humanitarian whose work for those in poverty was groundbreaking. Tonight marked the 103rd Maria Love Charity Ball, held in the Buffalo Convention Center, and attended by a total of 1,200 students, from fifth graders to high school seniors. The benevolent agency is comprised of a board of 40 civic-minded women on a voluntary basis under the direction of Jane Hettrick. According to Karen Little, Executive Director of the fund, the agency handled 100 agency referrals this past year, with 900 persons assisted.

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