can a US citizen get a visa in Toronto? I live in Buffalo, Toronto is a lot closer than NYC.

Fran, if you can provide the valid entry permit for Canada, it's possible to apply from Toronto.

Valid entry permit? I just cross the border with my passport?

Fran, if you live under the jurisdiction of Chinese consulte in NYC, I suggest you go to New York to apply. I know that US citizens can enter Canada without visa. However, I am not sure if you can apply successfully in Toronto. Before you go there, please make a call to the CVASC center in Toronto to confirm whether you can apply there.
Phone: 416-345-8472
E-mail: torontocentervisaforchina.org

Thanks, that was the impression I got on their website.