[Congressional Record Volume 167, Number 104 (Tuesday, June 15, 2021)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E646-E647]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




  RECOGNIZING THE ACCOMPLISHMENTS AND DEDICATION OF THE BUFFALO BLUES 
                              ORGANIZATION

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. BRIAN HIGGINS

                              of new york

                    in the house of representatives

                         Tuesday, June 15, 2021

  Mr. HIGGINS of New York. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize the 
extraordinary accomplishments of the Western New York-based non-profit 
organization known as ``Buffalo Blues'' and their remarkable service 
and dedication to the Veteran community.
  Buffalo Blues is a non-profit dedicated to using the power and reach 
of music to help Western New York Veterans and military families 
through fundraising and charitable donations. Founded by Bob James, 
Buffalo Blues forms an impactful partnership between the music 
community and Veteran groups. Musicians that partner with Buffalo Blues 
experience professional growth while also helping to raise funds and 
advocating for the needs of the Veteran community.
  On May 6, 2021, Buffalo Blues announced that--with the help of over 
200 musicians--they were able to donate over $100,000 to 18 Erie County 
charities serving WNY Veterans and military families. Through live 
musical performances, merchandise sales, and online livestreamed 
concerts, these 200 musicians used their talents to both raise funds 
for these local charities and bring attention to the issues that often 
face the Veteran community.
  In addition to raising funds, Buffalo Blues has been gathering data 
on the needs of Veterans and Military Families. This research helps to 
ensure that the money they raise goes to where it is most needed in the 
veteran community.
  When the COVID-19 pandemic shuttered opportunities for live, in-
person performances, Buffalo Blues adapted with the changing times. 
Knowing that the difficulties that Veterans and military families face 
weren't going anywhere, they found an innovative solution by 
livestreaming musical performances online until it was safe to return 
to the stages of Western New York.
  Madam Speaker, I appreciate this opportunity to speak today, and ask 
that my colleagues join me in recognizing the persistence and 
dedication of Buffalo Blues and their affiliated musicians. Their 
continual advocacy for

[[Page E647]]

and service to Veterans and military families is commendable, and we 
thank them for their efforts.

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