[Congressional Record Volume 168, Number 175 (Monday, November 14, 2022)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1131]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




RECOGNIZING RUSTIC BUFFALO ARTISAN MARKET AS THE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE OF 
                    TONAWANDAS' BUSINESS OF THE YEAR

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                           HON. BRIAN HIGGINS

                              of new york

                    in the house of representatives

                       Monday, November 14, 2022

  Mr. HIGGINS of New York. Madam Speaker, today I am pleased to honor 
Rustic Buffalo Artisan Market, a local market that was opened during 
the height of the COVID-19 pandemic. It was a dedicated effort to help 
local artisans and their families who would be affected by COVID safety 
regulations. It filled the void of craft shows, festivals, and large 
events to sell handmade items. On November 14, 2020, the Western New 
York community embraced this venture and waited in line for hours.
  Since then, Rustic Buffalo Artisan Market has been actively running 
among its three buildings with over 120 award-winning curated artisans. 
In addition, Rustic Buffalo Sip & Shop events are hosted four times a 
year to promote their partnerships with local non-for-profits and 
charities. In just the past two years, Rustic Buffalo has raised over 
$117,000 for local charities and not-for-profit organizations.
  This idea was borne by necessity; the COVID-19 pandemic disrupted so 
much of our local economy, and it would have had even more devastating 
consequences had Rustic Buffalo Artisan Market not been created. I know 
that I speak for countless Western New Yorkers when I say that its 
operation saved many careers and livelihoods. Looking forward, the 
Rustic Buffalo Market looks to expand into new territory, which is sure 
to be just as successful.
  Perhaps most impressive, Rustic Buffalo has one hundred percent 
retention since their opening. Understandably, they have attained many 
accolades since their opening in 2020. These include the Best New 
Business of 2020 (Buffalo Spree), Best Gift Shop (Buffalo News), Best 
New Business in WNY (Buffalo News), and most recently Best Unique Gift 
Shop in WNY (Buffalo Spree). Rustic Buffalo leadership is also a 
contributor to Buffalo Business First New Paper on the importance of 
retention and the continuous need to look for strategies to grow your 
business.
  Madam Speaker, I am honored to recognize this new staple to the local 
economy and commend their team who remain dedicated to giving back to 
our community.

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