By Tom McClimon
March 24, 2008

“The arts play an important role in the economy of Buffalo and the nation,” was the theme of remarks given by Conference of Mayor Executive Director and CEO Tom Cochran at the 22nd Annual Arts Awards Luncheon held March 14 by the Arts Council of Buffalo and Erie County. Speaking before some 500 arts patrons and artists in the Buffalo region, keynote speaker Cochran told the audience that the nation’s mayors are pushing the presidential candidates to establish a cabinet level department on culture and tourism. This annual arts awards luncheon recognizes artists, arts patrons and arts organizations in Western New York.