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This section displays the last 30 news articles that were published.

03/15/2012 09:03 PM

Excitement Builds on Buffalo's Free Agent Signing

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It was an exciting day for Buffalo Bills fans. Many crowding into area restaurants to talk about the team's latest announcement.

"The fact that they're signing, motivates the players and brings a new energy to the team," said Bills fan, Jack Chiappimelli.

"Young player and one of the best talents in the game right now," said fan, Marshall Cowey.

Over the past few days, Mario Williams started a social media frenzy as talk of him signing with the Buffalo Bills was said to be a strong possibility. And that became reality Thursday.

"For the Buffalo Bills to get this, it says something about the Bills and their commitment to the team," said Pittsford Town Supervisor Bill Carpenter.

Carpenter was beyond thrilled, and predicts that the Bills will become even more aggressive in the free agent market, and bring in more top players.

He said it's a major benefit to the community, as Saint John Fisher College in Pittsford is set to host the Bills training camp this summer. He now expects more outside visitors.

"It's giving people exposure to this community once they see what a beautiful community we have and we tend to run into people later who come back and come in and spend time in our shops and restaurants, and that's good for our businesses," said Carpenter.

Last year, the Bills announced an agreement to continue training camp at Saint John Fisher College. Many label the venue as a first class NFL training camp.

"I think you'll see a lot of people coming out to see Mario and he's supposed to be quite a physical specimen so it's always interesting to see them up close and personal in their practice," Carpenter said.

Many in Pittsford couldn't agree more.

With camp a short drive away from the downtown area, many business owners are expecting almost double the amount of customers this summer.

"This year, we're definitely hoping for a big crowd. It's similar to the TO signing a couple years ago," said restaurant manager, Andrew Columbe. "Obviously this guy is a much better player, but as far as fan fare, it's very similar."

And Bills fans didn't forget to give their team an extra cheer to the upcoming season.

"Just wins, wins, wins, wins!"

"Rochester loves the Bills and I just love going to see them at Saint John Fisher, just because it's so close to home. And it's a great atmosphere to see NFL players," said a fan.