Some supporters of Eric Massa banded together to demonstrate their token of gratitude towards the former congressman following his decision to resign.

Several supporters sent e-mails to hundreds of residents in the 29th District urging them to display campaign lawn signs to send a simple message of appreciation.

"We have the signs out to show a support for everything that Eric Massa has done during his 14-month tenure in office as our representative," said Robin Wilt, Massa supporter.

Monday was a sad day for Massa supporters like Wilt. She and others are displaying "thank you" signs and campaign signs in their front yard in light of Massa's resignation, which became effective at 5 p.m. Monday.

“We didn’t have a voice with his predecessor. We don’t know if we’re going to have a voice with who comes next but we always knew that we had one with Eric,” said Carol Mulligan, Massa supporter.

Supporters say Massa overcame a lot to win the 29th Congressional seat. Now the vacant seat presents another challenge to fill. Although the signs are in honor of Massa, Wilt said he will be hard to replace.

"He's been a staunch advocate for a lot of progressive issues. He's just strong on environmental issues, obviously health care reform. We're very sad to lose him as a champion of those issues," said Wilt.

Governor David Paterson now has the option to call a special election to fill the vacancy in the 29th Congressional District.

Eric Massa