Strictly Business

From Business Today:

Good stuff from over the weekend.

The Buffalo Niagara International Airport is simply taking off. Passenger traffic has soared since the new terminal opened in 1997, and the arrival of several discount airlines has pushed down ticket prices and made the region more attractive for business. It is also the No. 1 U.S. airport used by Canadians, which has contributed to the hotel building boom nearby. All in all, it's a dynamic economic development tool, and it makes vacations much more affordable.

Rocco Termini has some interesting things to say about downtown  development and where it's headed.

East Aurora holds some real gems - from attractive homes to a lovely village - but it also is home to some interesting businessess, like the Beveral Hills Teddy Bear Co., The toy manufacturer has had a string of successes, and it thinks it has another winner for this holiday season.

North Tonawanda native Mark Johnson always showed promise in high school. He was valedictorian of his senior class at North Tonawanda High School and was voted most likely to suceed. His classmates got it right. Johnson just sold his online company Zite to CNN for a reported $20 million. Zite allows users to create their own magazine based on their interests. 

Hertel Avvenue, the bustling, hip commercial strip of North Buffalo, is getting a new tenant. The traditional Hertel News & Tobacco is bring refashioned into the North Park Market, and the Lotto betting room is getting an upgrade.

Senator Kirsten Gillibrand has some encouraging words for women entrepreneurs. And she is also challenging them to step up and create a modern version of 'Rosie the Riveter' to inspire others.

Who is getting hired, promoted and honored?

Some recent real estate transactions.