Welcome to Hertel Avenue with HBA's President, Judy Porto-Fiorella

/ Hertel Ave. /
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Explore Hertel

Eat. Shop. Play. Explore. Create. Community.

Some of you may have seen this video on North Buffalo that was on the local news and social media channels this past week, if you ask me my opinion I think its a great video showcasing that part of our Western New York community which segues well into my blog feature today. On a Monday evening back in September (yes, September) I had the chance to sit down with Judy Porto-Fiorella, President of the Hertel Business Association (HBA). Judy and I met a few years back when the Italian Festival moved from Hertel to the Outer Harbor and I’m so happy I met her.

(Photos above are from HBA’s FB page)

Judy has lived in North Buffalo and has been involved with the North Buffalo community for many years. For those who aren’t familiar with the HBA, the board is made up of volunteers that include both residents in the Hertel community as well as business owners. The association helps with a number of things from helping businesses open, and helping residents in the area, to the beautification and decor along Hertel Ave. They meet the second Tuesday of each month and our on a yearly term.

If you’ve been down Hertel recently you will see there has been a lot of new businesses and development taking place as well as public art down Hertel Alley. That is the whole reason the HBA is in place - to attract more visitors to the area.

Judy’s favorite thing about being involved is the community work she is able to do - whether it be working with the council members, helping business owners or residents in the community or just being a part of helping North Buffalo thrive, what ever the case, she enjoys it all.

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That doesn’t mean that there aren’t challenges her and the board face because there are, but they listen to those concerns and do the best they can to solve the problems that the community faces. Such as the parking, that is the main complaint if anything.

When I asked her what the biggest reward is she said it’s meeting new people in the community and seeing what they are doing. It’s a friendly community and those a part of it are always willing to help each other. It’s like a mini family, where we all respect one another, they enjoy collaborating and learning new things.

This or That:

  • White or Red wine: White

  • Football or Hockey: Football

  • Enjoy making - Pasta or Italian Wedding Cookies: Italian Wedding Cookies

To stay up to date on all that is going on, on Hertel and in North Buffalo make sure to check out the HBA’s website and Facebook page. Judy, thank you for being the rock star and amazing woman that you are.

-B

Some of the places to check out next time you’re on Hertel:

Restaurants:

  • La Talpa

  • Garage Cafe

  • Kostas

  • Burning Buffalo

  • The Little Club

Shops:

  • PS Accessories

  • Daisy’s Doghouse

  • Start with Sleep

  • Antique Lamp Company (cool finds in there)

  • Core 5 Pottery

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