Almost five years after 9/11, the memory of that tragic day and the many lives lost remain in the hearts and minds of countless New Yorkers, especially those working in the HUD Buffalo Office. To show their continuing support for the United States, to remember the victims, and to keep the City of Buffalo looking beautiful, a small group of HUD Buffalo employees tend to a 9/ll memorial in a small urban park at the intersection of Washington, Genesee and East Huron in the City's downtown.

HUD Buffalo employees: Michele Bauer, Denise Flitton, Claudette Holinaty, Lisa Mrzygut and Michele Bernier.

The small triangular park contains seven beautiful trees around its parameter, and in the middle rests a large stone with a plaque dedicated to 9/11 victims. M&T Bank and the Buffalo Urban League were instrumental in providing financing and debris clean-up. Additionally, Buffalo Place, a non-profit advocacy group, are responsible for the park's daily maintenance.

Every spring a group of HUD volunteers dig flower beds and plant hostas and tiger lilies in the shadow of the towering Electric and Gold Dome buildings. This annual effort began three (3) years ago when a group of HUD employees thought that it would be befitting to acknowledge and honor those who lost their lives on 9/11 and to create a memorial where people could go to reflect and remember that fateful day. The City of Buffalo thought likewise, and donated a small parcel of city-owned land to house the memorial. Since that time, the little urban pocket park has been dramatically spruced up. For example, the Vietnam Veterans Leadership Program donated a flagpole and an American flag, which flies high over the middle of the park. Further, a park bench is scheduled to be installed by Americorps, while beautiful placards can be seen commemorating the project.