Senator Sean Ryan Honors The Monocle As May ‘Small Business Of The Month’

BUFFALO – Today, May 16, 2024, New York State Senator Sean Ryan announced that The Monocle has been selected as the 61st Senate District Small Business of the Month for May. Senator Ryan will present its owners with a New York State Senate Empire Award in recognition of the boutique department store’s contributions to the Western New York community.

Inspired by shopping centers in the United Kingdom and Italy, The Monocle opened on Hertel Avenue in May 2022 as a thoughtfully designed space for customers to enjoy luxury goods and services. The core businesses that make up The Monocle include a furniture boutique (Room), a barbershop (Crockett & Co. Barbershop), and an interior design firm (Michael P. Design). The Monocle also hosts monthly pop-up opportunities for other small businesses, as well as bimonthly artist residences that provide local artists with working space and promotion of their work. 

Owners Michael Poczkalski and David Brugh have demonstrated a commitment to supporting their community through charitable donations and support for local causes. The Monocle has sponsored the VIP tent at Buffalo’s Pride Parade, regularly participates in neighborhood events, and donates to Families of FANA and local adoption agencies.

Senator Ryan will continue to highlight businesses that deserve special recognition for their contributions to the Western New York community throughout 2024. To nominate a business for the June award, individuals should fill out the nomination form here or at ryan.nysenate.gov by Sunday, May 26.

Businesses that will receive special consideration during the selection process include:

• Companies that have created a culture of philanthropy and/or demonstrated exceptional leadership in the community
• Leaders in their industry and/or innovators in their field
• Promoters of economic growth in Western New York
• Family-owned businesses that have successfully passed from one generation to another
• Companies that conduct virtuous ethical practices and/or utilize green practices
   

To be eligible for the award, a business must be located in the 61st Senate District, which includes parts of the City of Buffalo, as well as the entireties of the City of Tonawanda, the Towns of Amherst, Grand Island, and Tonawanda, and the Villages of Kenmore and Williamsville. To confirm whether a business is located in the 61st District, individuals can visit www.nysenate.gov/find-my-senator and enter its address.