For Immediate Release: May 2, 2018
Contact: Erich Weyant | 716-796-1649 |erich.weyant@erie.gov
Baskin Highlights Small Business Owners in District for National Small Business Week
A small business owner herself, Baskin will profile fellow entrepreneurs in a series of videos on her social media platforms
Erie County, NY) National Small Business Week recognizes the vital role that small businesses play in our economy. More than half of all Americans either own or work for a small business, and they create about two out of every three new jobs in the U.S. each year. This year, National Small Business Week is being recognized April 29 – May 5, and Erie County Legislature Majority Leader April Baskin is marking the occasion with a series of videos on her Facebook page. (www.facebook.com/legislatorbaskin/)
Baskin, who founded her own company, the College Simulation Experience, in her living room, wanted to highlight small businesses in her legislative district. “The 2nd Legislative District is the bridge across the City of Buffalo, linking the East Side and West Side,” said Baskin. “It stretches from Kensington Bailey, through the Elmwood Village to Niagara Street. These businesses and their owners capture the energy and diversity of these neighborhoods. As Chair of the Minority and Women’s Business Enterprise Committee, and Vice-Chair of the Economic Development Committee, I am working to expand economic opportunity and I wanted to salute those who are taking risks and succeeding. Small Business Week is about recognizing the vital role small businesses play in our economy.”
The businesses to be highlighted are:
The Pop In - 218 Grant St.
The Pop In is an event space on Buffalo's West Side. Founded by Casey William Milbrand and his partner Jason Lloyd Clement in 2015, the venue hosts events and exhibitions created by Jason and Casey, as well as those curated by the local community. It is hosts pop-up shops, dinner parties, meetings, and photo shoots.
Spa Therapy Luxe – 1913 Clinton St
The realization of a childhood dream, Connie Boyd, opened Spa Therapy Luxe on Clinton Street in 2017. Focusing on providing a spa like atmosphere so relaxing that clients often call it their therapy, the business essentially named itself. Connie has tailored the services she offers based on what clients in the community have asked for.
Macramé by Nadeen – West Side Bazaar, 25 Grant St.
Nadeen Yousef is a refugee from Iraq. A manager at the International Institute discovered her talents and recommended she contact the West Side Bazaar. She opened Macramé by Nadeen in 2015, selling artistic creations handmade to order.
El Batey Dance Center- 289 DeWitt St
In Caribbean culture, a batey is place for the community to gather together, celebrate their culture and pass down traditions to the next generation. Beatriz Flores was inspired to open El Batey in 2017 because she wanted to empower Puerto Rican music and history in Buffalo. She offers classes for children and teens, and private lessons.
ShoeFly – 801 Elmwood Ave
Sue Marfino opened ShoeFly in March 2002 at a small storefront at 822 Elmwood. Located in the heart of the Elmwood Village, ShoeFly concentrates on styles & brands that are not readily found elsewhere in Buffalo.
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