There are some people you meet in life under circumstances you could never plan. My friendship with Chef Martin Danilowicz, owner of Roost Restaurant at 1502 Niagara Street in Buffalo, New York, is definitely one of those stories. It didn’t start over dinner. It didn’t start at a business event. It didn’t even start with
Some people retire from public service and finally take the opportunity to slow down. Rodney Wilkinson apparently had other plans. After more than two decades of public service, including serving as a Lieutenant with the Buffalo Fire Department and serving his country as a veteran of the United States Air Force, Wilkinson could have comfortably
Some connections in life change everything — and mine started in the most unexpected way. Years ago, before I (Darren McDuffie) had my own office, you’d find me at Café Aroma, laptop open, tie on, ready to conquer the world one website and one marketing campaign at a time. Across from me, there was always
In a world where too many leaders speak about change and justice but never truly walk into the places that need it most, Armonde “Moe” Badger stands apart. I like to refer to Moe as The Warrior Pastor. Moe is not only a devoted man of faith but also a Buffalo Police Officer whose life
Some leaders are called to their roles. Others grow into them — shaped by the very neighborhoods they now serve. Chief Todd McAllister is a rare example of both. Born and raised just around the corner from the E District he now leads in the Buffalo Police Department, his story is one of service, education,
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Sahi Chowdhury — a true leader, a cultural ambassador, a community pillar, and a brother in every meaningful way. Sahi isn’t just someone I’m grateful to know — I’m honored to call him my friend. From the very first time he invited me to one of his community gatherings, I (Darren McDuffie) knew I was
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Sometimes life surprises you in the most unexpected ways — and often through the kindness of others. In this case, it was the result of someone being a complete asshole. I first met Rachel Pepe, the founder of Clean Collective Refillery, on what started as a totally ordinary errand at a local health store. Rachel
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Michael Norwood Jr. is one of those rare individuals whose life story reads like a journey through multiple worlds—athletics, public service, creative entrepreneurship, and community leadership. A Buffalo native, Norwood’s path has taken him from the hardwood courts of collegiate and professional basketball, to the streets of his hometown as a respected Police Lieutenant and
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Drip Sanchez’s journey which led to the creation of his first album with Arnuma Records is one amazing story to tell. As you follow his new career in music, you will certainly learn much more about his amazing journey. If you are a lover of music and a lover of the process, you’ll certainly enjoy
Family Life Let’s begin with what’s most important: Married to my high school sweetheart. My wife and I have been together for over twenty two years. We have three beautiful little girls. I often tell my wife she should teach a child planning class as each of our girls were planned down to the month.