Seth Greene
The News, Eats & Events Shaping Western New York |
Buffalo could welcome professional rugby in 2028, but the proposed Buffalo Thunderbolts are not yet an approved franchise.
Major League Rugby has signed a letter of intent with a local ownership group led by Joe DiPasquale and Mark Winokur.
The group still must finalize its ownership structure, business plan and playing venue; no home field has been confirmed.
Buffalo’s bid draws on a rugby community that includes Buffalo Rugby Club, founded in 1966, and college and youth programs across Western New York.
Its proximity to Canada could help attract fans on both sides of the border.
State Assemblyman Bill Conrad has backed the effort, while the Thunderbolts name honors an aircraft built in Buffalo during World War II.
With the league looking to grow ahead of the 2031 Men’s Rugby World Cup, Buffalo remains a contender, not a certainty. Read More... |
Democrats won across Western New York, but Buffalo’s election results raised a question about who will carry the region’s influence forward.
U.S. Rep. Tim Kennedy defeated Republican Dennis Hannon, keeping the 26th Congressional District Democratic while campaigning on affordability.
Gov. Kathy Hochul won reelection and carried her home county of Erie, while Assemblymember Karen McMahon showed continued Democratic strength in Amherst.
In Albany, Crystal Peoples-Stokes’ retirement after more than three decades in public office leaves Buffalo facing a consequential leadership change.
Buffalo Common Council Majority Leader Leah Halton-Pope is set to succeed her in the 141st Assembly District, but not in her leadership post.
Newer lawmakers will need to build alliances to protect Western New York’s voice in state budget and policy talks.
Locally, voters faced 11 proposed Charter amendments, including Proposition 8, which would expand scrutiny of mayoral budget estimates.
That oversight matters as Buffalo confronts a structural deficit, though scrutiny alone will not close the gap.
The test now is whether election victories bring relief for residents and lasting gains for Buffalo. Read More... |
Buffalo letter carriers have a voice in national union leadership after Branch 3 President David Grosskopf Jr. was elected a trustee of the National Association of Letter Carriers.
Grosskopf joins an administration led by newly elected NALC President James Henry, the union’s first Black president.
Both won in October with the Concerned Letter Carriers slate, which campaigned for better pay, benefits and working conditions and won more than half of its 24 races.
Grosskopf entered the campaign amid frustration over national leadership’s handling of a postal contract opposed by many members.
As president of Branch 3, which represents about 2,000 members, he has also opposed postal processing consolidation.
His local term runs into 2027, keeping him connected to Western New York carriers as he takes on national duties.
For members working long days in every kind of weather, the test now is whether new leadership delivers meaningful improvements on their routes and in their paychecks. Read More... |
📚 Top 5 Best Bookstores in Buffalo & WNY |
From charming independent bookshops and cozy reading corners to shelves filled with bestsellers, hidden literary gems, and unique gifts, Western New York has some wonderful bookstores! Whether you're searching for your next great read, shopping for a book lover, or simply enjoy getting lost among the shelves, here are five local favorites worth checking out.
1. Talking Leaves...Books – Buffalo 📍 Location: 951 Elmwood Avenue, Buffalo 📚 Known For: Independent bookselling, literary fiction, bestsellers, children's books, and unique finds 📄 Details: A beloved Buffalo institution since 1971, Talking Leaves is a must-visit for book lovers! Located in the heart of Elmwood Village, this charming independent bookstore offers a thoughtfully curated selection of fiction, nonfiction, poetry, and children's literature. With knowledgeable staff, interesting recommendations, and an inviting atmosphere, it's the perfect place to discover your next favorite book.
📍 Location: 688 Abbott Road, Buffalo ☕ Known For: Books, coffee, delicious café treats, children's programs, and a welcoming atmosphere 📄 Details: What's better than a great book and a delicious cup of coffee? Dog Ears Bookstore & Café combines both! This cozy South Buffalo favorite offers a wonderful selection of books for readers of all ages alongside a café serving coffee, sandwiches, and other tasty treats. As a nonprofit bookstore, Dog Ears also supports literacy and educational programs for local children, making every visit feel even more meaningful.
📍 Location: 415 Grant Street, Buffalo 📖 Known For: Used books, affordable literary treasures, rare finds, and community events 📄 Details: If you love the thrill of discovering a hidden literary treasure, Rust Belt Books is the place for you! This independent used bookstore is packed with shelves of fiction, history, philosophy, poetry, science fiction, and more. Its eclectic atmosphere makes browsing an adventure, and you never know what unexpected gem you'll uncover. The bookstore also hosts readings, artistic events, and community gatherings, making it a special part of Buffalo's literary scene. 4. The Bookworm – East Aurora 📍 Location: 34 Elm Street, East Aurora 🎁 Known For: New and used books, children's literature, unique gifts, and affordable finds 📄 Details: Located in the charming village of East Aurora, The Bookworm has been a favorite destination for readers since 1986! This independently owned bookstore offers a wonderful variety of new and gently used books, including bestsellers, children's favorites, and unexpected discoveries. Shoppers can also explore a delightful selection of gifts, greeting cards, puzzles, and accessories. With its cozy atmosphere and constantly changing inventory, it's easy to spend an afternoon browsing the shelves.
📍 Location: 1462 Main Street, Buffalo 🧇 Known For: New and used books, literary fiction, poetry, delicious waffles, and community events 📄 Details: Fitz Books & Waffles brings together two wonderful things: great books and delicious food! This unique independent bookstore offers a carefully selected collection of new and used titles, including literary fiction, poetry, history, and thought-provoking nonfiction. Visitors can browse the shelves, enjoy freshly made waffles, and discover books they might never have picked up otherwise. With its creative atmosphere and community-focused events, Fitz makes shopping for books a memorable experience. |
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