June 20, 2008

Hockey Stars honored by Legislator Tim Kennedy

As most in this community know, Buffalo has always been a hotbed for hockey talent. Recently, Legislator Tim Kennedy acknowledged this belief, and welcomed two talented young hockey stars to the Erie County Legislature. Michael Ratchuk and Tim Kennedy – not to be confused with Legislator Tim Kennedy – both recently signed deals with NHL teams, and received proclamations from the Legislature honoring their efforts and accomplishments up to date.

Tim Kennedy, a graduate of Bishop Timon-St. Jude High School, recently signed with the Buffalo Sabres. The Sabres acquired his rights through a draft-day trade in 2005, and in doing so, helped fulfill a childhood dream. "Tim, a South Buffalo native, has been working towards this opportunity since he was in kindergarten. He had an impressive career at Michigan State and is an outstanding role model for the children of South Buffalo, not only because of the talent he displays on the ice, but by the way he treats others off the ice," stated Legislator Tim Kennedy. "Tim and I not only share a name, but a passion for this community."

Michael Ratchuk, another South Buffalo native, signed with the Philadelphia Flyers. During his time at Michigan State, Mike earned an Honorable Mention selection on the All-CCHA Team. Legislator Kennedy remarked that the unique South Buffalo friendship Ratchuk and Kennedy shared as NCAA Champions at Michigan State University will be remembered by their hometown neighbors for years to come. Kennedy concluded jokingly, "Mike Ratchuk is another young, talented and personable individual from South Buffalo who will make this community proud, even if he is a Flyer."

Legislator Kennedy went on to say, "Tim Kennedy and Michael Ratchuk now join the likes of Patrick Kaleta and Calder Trophy winner Patrick Kane in carrying on a Buffalo hockey tradition. In doing so, these young men remind the residents of the City of Buffalo, and the nation, just how much talent this area has. Their personalities also act as a demonstration of how committed the families of South Buffalo hockey players are to not only the growth of their children's talents, but to the growth of their character. I know that they will continue to be powerful advocates on behalf of South Buffalo and the Western New York Region."

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