Ed Rath

11/16/2020

Erie County unveils Shop 716 eGift Card Program encouraging residents to shop local

PLEASE SHARE:

Erie County has launched phase two of its Back to Business program. It is called ‘Shop 716’ and encourages shoppers to buy from small businesses in Erie County.

How does it work? When you sign up, you will receive an e-gift card and Erie County will match your amount up to $25. You can use your e-gift card at participating businesses.

The Covid-19 pandemic has taken a toll on the local businesses we know and love. I really hope everyone in my district will take advantage of this offer and do their part to help save these establishments in Erie County.

Don’t wait—the buy-one-get-one free promotion ends November 30th.

The eGift cards will not be accepted at large box retailers or grocery stores; they will only be accepted at participating independent local businesses.

11/11/2020

Take time to thank a veteran today, and every day.

We appreciate all of our veterans, including the many right here in Erie County. We are forever indebted to you.

11/09/2020

PLEASE SHARE: Akron residents, help paying your heating bills could be just one application away.

I am hosting an outreach to help with the HEAP application process.

Please contact my office as soon as possible at 716-858-8676 to schedule a phone appointment for Tuesday, November 17th. Time slots begin at 9:30am and go until 4:00pm.

We look forward to hearing from you!

11/06/2020

County legislators, advocates again demand transparency on Covid-19 outbreaks

Transparency is key. I am glad this common sense resolution was passed unanimously in the Erie County Legislature.

If we are going to help stop the spread of COVID-19 on a local level—it is imperative that we know where a good chunk of those cases are coming from.

https://buffalonews.com/news/local/county-legislators-advocates-again-demand-transparency-on-covid-19-outbreaks/article_2c76e8be-1f8b-11eb-b819-aba29e902de2.html

This is not the first time the Legislature has called for more county transparency. And this isn't the first time Erie County has been criticized for lack of openness.

11/03/2020

It is here—Election Day 2020!

If you haven’t done so already, head to the Board of Elections website to find your polling place: https://elections.erie.gov/

As an American citizen, remember that it is your civic duty to participate.

11/02/2020

SMSD Mock Election 2020: Rath, Ed

To instill good habits in children, you need to start at a young age. That is the idea behind the mock election held at St. Mary's School for the Deaf in Buffalo every year.

The mock election takes young students though the election process, step-by-step, so they become familiar and comfortable enough with it and eventually carry out that habit after their 18th birthday.

Due to Covid-19, this year’s mock election will look a little different—but it won’t stop St. Mary’s from carrying out the tradition. I, along with my colleagues, had the chance to record video messages for these students—giving us a chance to let them know that their vote and participation really does indeed make a difference.

Thank you, St. Mary’s School for the Deaf, for this opportunity! Nothing but greatness ahead for your students.

10/29/2020

Adjusting to the new normal in a creative and entertaining way.

My colleague Legislator Frank Todaro and I recently stopped by the Nativity of Mary School in Williamsville to check in with one teacher who is making the most of virtual learning for three to five year olds.

Sandy Hamilton created Mrs. Hamilton’s Classroom—a virtual teaching hub for early learning and Kindergarten Readiness. Mrs. Hamilton posts videos to be completed whenever it is convenient for your family.

Legislator Todaro and I presented Mrs. Hamilton with a proclamation for her ingenuity and dedication to providing a quality education for young children during the Covid-19 pandemic.

Thank you, Sandy, for paving the way for a bright future for these children!

10/29/2020

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month and a new business in Williamsville is welcoming fighters with open arms.

Au Naturel Boutique on Main Street is Western New York’s only full service mastectomy boutique—they offer certified fitters, private fitting rooms and a professional facility for women who have recently gone through the surgery.

I presented a certificate to owner Eileen Tramont for her compassion and support to the woman who are going through their biggest fight. Thank you, Eileen, for providing comfort where it is needed the most.

10/28/2020

REMINDER FOR ERIE COUNTY SMALL BUSINESS OWNERS: There’s still time to apply for the county’s Back to Business grant program.
Your business has the potential to receive funding anywhere from $10,000 to $45,000.

If you are interested in applying, head to www.BacktoBizGrants.Org. Don’t wait, applications close on Monday, November 2nd.

If you have any questions, comments or concerns please give my office a call at 716-858-8676 or by email [email protected] .gov.

Everyone please SHARE this post.

10/28/2020

Recognizing the heroic men and women who dedicate their lives to helping others.

Today is National First Responders Day and I want to take a moment to thank those brave individuals—whether they be a police officer, firefighter, paramedic or Emergency Medical Technician.

You make our community a safer place to live and because of that, we are indebted to you. Thank you!

10/26/2020

The Western New York community does it again!

On Sunday The BFLO Store and I, hosted a contactless food drive for FeedMore WNY and the turnout far exceeded my expectations.

By the end of the drive, several huge donation boxes were filled to the brim. These donations will help put food on the table for those who need it the most.

Thank you to everyone who stopped by—including my colleague Legislator Frank Todaro!

10/25/2020

REMINDER:

No Sunday morning plans? No problem.

Grab some non-perishables and head over to the Eastern Hills Mall, 4545 Transit Road, from 9AM to 12PM.

I am hosting a contactless food drive, along with The BFLO Store, to benefit @FeedMore WNY

Items sought include: peanut butter and jelly, canned food, tuna, baby wipes and diapers.

Bring the kiddos—you can expect a special guest appearance from Buffalo's Best Batman!

Hope to see you there!

10/23/2020

PLEASE SHARE:

On Sunday I will be hosting a contactless food drive along with The BFLO Store to benefit FeedMore WNY.

It will take place at the Eastern Hills Mall on 4545 Transit Road from 9AM to 12PM.

Items needed include: peanut butter and jelly, canned food, tuna, baby wipes and diapers.

You can also expect a special guest appearance from Buffalo's Best Batman.

I hope to see many of you out there as we come together to help our neighbors in need.

10/21/2020

A local non-profit is celebrating 50 years of helping others.

Formed back in 1970, People Inc. helps those with developmental disabilities, special needs, and older adults to help them live healthy and productive lives.

Recently, I presented a proclamation to Rhonda Frederick, President and Chief Executive Officer, recognizing the organization’s hard work and dedication to helping those in our community who need it the most. Thank you!

10/17/2020

Celebrating 20 years of quality care for our seniors.

Recently I, along with Legislator Jeanne Vinal, honored the Amherst Center for Senior Services on its 20th anniversary.

Opening back in 1963, the center cares for the community’s older residents-- providing them with recreational and educational activities to keep up with their physical and mental well-being. To help keep up with their mental well-being, the center offers over 80 classes covering topics such as: Academic Studies, The Arts, Music, Technology and many more.

That’s not all--the Amherst Center for Senior Services assists seniors with Medicare and tax forms, Telephone Assurance Program, Amherst Meals On Wheels and many other programs to make sure they are taking advantage of all the help that is out there and available for them.

Thank you to everyone over at the center for serving over 10,000 older adults in the Western New York community.

10/16/2020

Celebrating hard work and dedication.

I want to take a moment to congratulate Simone Fancher for being named a Woman of Influence in 2020. Buffalo Business First selected 25 women across Western New York who are helping to create a legacy at their family-owned business or company.

Simone Fancher was born in Dunkirk, and is a current resident of Clarence. Not only is she a community activist, but also the owner of The Cheesy Chick Café and Food Truck- which offers cheesy creations from grilled cheese to mac n’ cheese and everything in-between. Her business launched back in 2013 just when food trucks started to pop up in the Buffalo area.

After great success with the food truck, Fancher opened a brick-and-mortar location on Main Street in Williamsville. Despite the Covid-19 pandemic putting a damper on small businesses, Fancher worked longer hours to provide meals for essential employees and got to know staff at local hospitals and nursing homes on a personal level.

Keep up the hard work, Simone. I am so proud to have had the chance to meet someone who is making such a large impact in the community.

10/15/2020

Celebrating community champions.

I want to send out a big congratulations to Carla Todaro-Pantano for being named a Woman of Influence in 2020. Todaro-Pantano was selected by Buffalo Business First, along with 24 other women, for their contributions to business and the Western New York community.

Carla Todaro-Pantano was born in Buffalo and is a current resident of Williamsville as well as the Vice President and Owner of La Nova Pizzeria. Her father, Joe Todaro, launched the pizzeria from the ground up in 1957. Carla first began working at the family business back in 1989.

Her and her father, the dynamic duo, launched La Nova Wings, Inc. which are sold in all 50 states. Together, the family built an iconic brand—having been named “the official pizza” of the Buffalo Bills, Buffalo Bisons and the Buffalo Sabres.

Carla’s contribution to Western New York doesn’t end there—she is also a staple in her community. Todaro-Pantano helped raise money for the Erie County Medical Center Foundation, Buffalo Heading and Speech, and raised hundreds of thousands of dollars for Summit Educational Resources in Buffalo.

Thank you, Carla, for your work that has made a tremendous difference in our community.

10/14/2020

I recently had the chance to tour Niagara Label Company, a mid-sized label manufacturer in Akron, as part of Small Business Week recognition.

A thank you goes out to General Manager Keith Hatswell and his sister, Inside Sales Manager, Michele Vanderlinden for showing me the ins-and-outs of the business. Their outstanding company has more than 33 years of experience!

10/14/2020

ATTENTION SMALL BUSINESS OWNERS: Help could be one, small step away; if you are struggling from the financial effects of the Covid-19 pandemic, keep reading.

Yesterday, Erie County launched a Small Business Assistance Grant Program. Your business has the potential to receive funding anywhere from $10,000 to $45,000. My colleagues and I in the Minority Caucus have questions on criteria for how the money will be spread out, but as your legislator, I still encourage you to apply.

If you are interested in applying, head to www.BacktoBizGrants.org, you have until November 2nd to do so.

If you have any questions, comments or concerns please give my office a call at 716-858-8676 or by email [email protected] .gov.

Everyone in my district is encouraged to please SHARE this post to help spread the word and save small businesses in our community. Thank you!

10/14/2020

Please share!

On Sunday, October 25th, I will be hosting a contactless food drive along with the The BFLO Store to benefit FeedMore WNY

It will take place at the Eastern Hills Mall on 4545 Transit Road from 9AM to 12PM.

Items needed include: peanut butter and jelly, canned food, tuna, baby wipes and diapers. You can also expect a special guest appearance from Buffalo's Best Batman.

I hope to see many of you out there as we come together to lend a hand to those in need.

10/13/2020

PLEASE SHARE!

TO ALL SMALL BUSINESS OWNERS: Help could be on the way. There is a Small Business Assistance Grant Program that has been launched by Erie County. Your business could receive key funding, from $10,000 to $45,000. You have until November 2nd to apply, just head to www.BacktoBizGrants.org .

As your legislator and representative of your district, I urge you to apply, although there are some lingering questions my colleagues and I have about how the grants will be allocated.

Help spread the word and share this post so no small business in the area misses out on this opportunity.

Thank you!

10/08/2020

Located on Main Street in the Village of Akron, the Akron Pharmacy is a small town drug store, providing residents with anything they may need, from scripts to gifts.

As part of our Small Business Week recognition, I presented a proclamation to pharmacist Cathy DiChiara to show her our appreciation for the excellent service she and her staff provide on a day-to-day basis.

10/07/2020

Agriculture is incredibly important to our communities and local economy.

A new wage requirement proposed in Albany would hurt our farmers and their workers, which is why I introduced a resolution opposing it in the Erie County Legislature. I am proud to continue supporting our local farming industry.

10/06/2020

Wild Birds Unlimited of Amherst, NY is dedicated to bringing people and nature together. I had the opportunity to tour the pet supplies store in East Amherst as part of our Small Business Week recognition.

Thank you to owner Angel Swann for showing me everything they have to offer, from bird houses to garden accessories.

Be sure to check out the store’s page for tips and tricks on where you can find different species in parks and preserves throughout Western New York.

09/30/2020

There are so many great small businesses in Erie County and I was happy to visit some in recognition of Small Business Week.

I’ll be sharing more of my stops in the coming days, but one of the owners I presented a proclamation to is Deborah Tangelder of The Perfect Gift in Clarence Center, NY. Deborah’s store is located in a historic building and is full of unique gifts. I appreciate her taking the time to show me around!

09/29/2020

Proud to take part in cleanup efforts this past Saturday at Akron Falls Park.

It’s important we all do our part to help protect the environment!

09/24/2020

Happy to proclaim this Saturday, September 26 Hunting and Fishing Day in Erie County!

Please consider taking some time to get outdoors and enjoy what nature has to offer or participate in volunteer efforts to help clean up the environment.

I’d also like to thank the Erie County Federation of Sportsmen's Clubs and all other area sportsmen’s clubs for everything they do to support environmental conservation throughout our region.

Below is a copy of the resolution I had submitted and approved by the Erie County Legislature this afternoon:

09/23/2020

Congratulations to BankOnBuffalo on opening the new Amherst branch!

It was great to be part of yesterday’s groundbreaking.

09/22/2020

The The Great Pumpkin Farm in Clarence is celebrating 25 years!

I presented a proclamation to owner Kelly Schultz this past weekend thanking him for all he’s done to create one of our community’s favorite fall traditions. Wishing him a successful season followed by many more!

09/22/2020

Had a great conversation with Erie County Clerk Mickey Kearns and Dominic Cortese this past Saturday on WBEN. We discussed problematic Zombie homes throughout the community and Clerk Kearns’ fight to hold those responsible accountable.

I am proud to collaborate with the Clerk, WNY Law Center, and other local leaders to get these troublesome properties out of our neighborhoods.

09/18/2020

ICYMI: Today is Constitution Day and Citizenship Day to commemorate the signing of the U.S. Constitution in Philadelphia on September 17, 1787.

We pause to honor the enduring document that governs our republic and enshrines our freedoms.

09/17/2020

Legislators propose using federal funds to help restaurants extend outdoor dining season

My colleagues and I are proposing we take a portion of CARES Act funding to help our local restaurants create, enhance, or expand their outdoor dining space as colder weather moves in. It could be used for heaters, tents, or anything needed to keep patrons warm.

Many of these restaurants are still forced to operate at limited capacity under the governor's guidelines. This would allow them to get creative and continue serving customers throughout the seasons.

This afternoon, I spoke with the The Buffalo News about our proposal:
https://buffalonews.com/news/local/legislators-propose-using-federal-funds-to-help-restaurants-extend-outdoor-dining-season/article_3957eb5c-f905-11ea-96ec-2fffe0344566.html#tracking-source=home-top-story

The coronavirus health crisis has upended typical business for restaurants, with more people feeling safer eating outdoors, if they eat out at all.