Small businesses are a driving force behind Western New York’s economy, supporting local jobs, serving our neighborhoods, and keeping our communities strong. We must continue to open doors to new opportunities, connect business owners with the resources they need, and ensure local companies can compete and create jobs right here in Western New York.  For the past three years, Talia Johnson-Huff and RARE Place Inc. have helped make that possible for minority-, women-, and veteran-owned businesses, equipping local entrepreneurs with the tools and connections to grow their businesses. Congratulations to this year’s graduates!

TSA officers are responsible for keeping our airports and skies safe, they deserve respect and dignity, not policies that make their jobs harder. As an occupational therapist, I know that standing on the job without proper precautions takes a toll on back, feet, and joints, and causes long-term health issues. Removing chairs from document-check stations nationwide raises serious concerns about worker safety and health. Officers should be able to do their jobs safely and comfortably, whether sitting or standing.

Team Kennedy checking in here to wish the boss a very happy 50th birthday! He’s the hardest working guy in Washington and no one loves Western New York more than him. Whether he’s fighting for the Buffalo-Niagara region in Congress or showing up for our community back home, his love for Buffalo and the people who make it special is, and always will be, front and center. We’re lucky to work for someone who gives so much of himself to this job. Happy Birthday, Congressman! 🎉

Fixed that for you.

Every time you open your wallet, Donald Trump’s illegal war and tariff tax are taking a bigger and bigger bite. Diesel is now over $6 a gallon, and gas has been over $4 a gallon for over 150 days, meaning everything from your groceries to your medications costs more. @HouseDemocrats are fighting to rein in this out-of-control administration and its inflationary policies. The American people can’t sustain this, and they shouldn’t have to.

Founded on service and fellowship, Paramount Chapter #57 of the Order of the Eastern Star has empowered African American women since 1895. For generations, its commitment to leadership, philanthropy, and mutual aid has strengthened Western New York. We honor that legacy of light, love, and service and carry it forward by continuing to “keep moving forward, doing all things together.”

This Indigenous Peoples’ Day, we honor the history, cultures, and enduring contributions of Indigenous Peoples. Their leadership, resilience, and deep connection to the land have shaped our communities and continue to guide the pursuit of a just and sustainable future. Today, and every day, we must recognize Indigenous voices, honor tribal sovereignty, and recommit ourselves to protecting Indigenous rights and heritage.

It was an honor speaking at the Buffalo International Film Festival, where 'Partners' highlighted the Buffalo Starbucks workers who launched an iconic nationwide movement for union representation in 2021. These workers stood up to one of the world’s largest and most recognizable corporations to demand a seat at the table. Their fight is a powerful reminder that workers’ rights are hard-won and must be protected. As a New York State Senator, I called on Starbucks to bargain in good faith, end retaliation against organizers, and respect workers’ right to organize. Now as your Congressman, I remain committed to standing with workers and defending the rights generations of labor leaders fought to secure.

Women-owned businesses are building the future of Western New York. Our community is stronger when women have the resources, mentorship, and opportunities they need to turn an idea into a business and a business into a lasting success. The Women’s Business Center is creating a space that brings together women entrepreneurs, community leaders, and the partners who champion their success. Supporting women in business means investing in the people who are creating jobs, strengthening our neighborhoods, and driving our local economy forward.

Organized labor is the backbone of Western New York. Working people deserve more than a promise that they will be safe on the job. They deserve strong workplace protections, effective enforcement, and a workers’ compensation system that supports them and their families when they are injured. I am so grateful for all my friends in labor, with a special shout out to @WNYALF President Denise Abbott and Niagara/Orleans Central Labor Council President Jim Briggs, who fight tirelessly for workers and their families. Protecting working people means standing with those who show up every day to fight for safer workplaces, stronger protections, and the dignity every worker deserves.

#Every1KnowsSome1 that has been impacted by domestic violence. This Domestic Violence Awareness Month, let’s do more than raise awareness, let’s take action. Speak up. Check in. Believe survivors. Share resources. Support organizations doing the work. And help create a community where no one has to face abuse alone.