[Congressional Record Volume 169, Number 172 (Thursday, October 19, 2023)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E997]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




RECOGNIZING THE ACCOMPLISHMENTS OF THE 2023 AMHERST CHAMBER OF COMMERCE 
                             AWARD WINNERS

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. BRIAN HIGGINS

                              of new york

                    in the house of representatives

                       Thursday, October 19, 2023

  Mr. HIGGINS of New York. Mr. Speaker Pro Tempore, today I am honored 
to recognize six businesses, organizations, and individuals that have 
been instrumental to the growth of Amherst, NY. As the pillar of the 
business community in Western New York's most populous suburb, the 
Amherst Chamber of Commerce has the responsibility of identifying many 
of our community leaders. At this ``Excellence Event,'' there is no 
shortage of men and women who have put the interests of their neighbors 
ahead of their own.
  This year's winner of the Stewardship Award is Goodwill of Western 
New York. Their mission of caring for others is not only commendable 
but has a tangible impact on countless individuals within our 
community. Goodwill's programs give those seeking employment a chance 
to showcase their skills and ambition in a productive environment. They 
take pride in helping to lift those from unemployment or 
underemployment while collecting millions of pounds in local donations. 
Annually, Goodwill of Western New York supports well over 1,000 
individuals in their pursuit of workforce development programs. It is 
my hope that Goodwill can continue to expand their services and build 
on the success that earned them this year's Stewardship Award.
  After more than six decades of serving Western New York families and 
businesses, Lawley Insurance is awarded this year's Family-Owned 
Business Award. A third-generation family business, Lawley has become a 
premiere agency in the eyes of the community they serve. Since the 
beginning, their leadership team placed an emphasis on ethics and 
maintaining the strength of the Western New York region. With offices 
across New York, Connecticut. and New Jersey, the current stewards of 
Lawley Insurance have never lost sight of their home in Buffalo. With 
great pride in this local group, I wish Lawley Insurance a bright 
future in our region.
  Spectrum Reach, the advertising arm of Charter Communications, will 
receive this year's Chairman's Award. Just this year, Charter has 
mentored over 700 multicultural businesses.
  This program, ``Pay It Forward,'' is an effort to give businesses 
free advertising, creative services, and educational resources. In a 
fast-paced world so focused on the bottom line, it is reassuring to 
know that local partners at a company as large as Charter have a focus 
on bettering our community.
  Fittingly, Amherst Chamber of Commerce is bestowing Buffalo AKO Art 
Museum with the Commitment to Excellence Award. After nearly four years 
of construction, AKG has transformed their campus to become a 
nationwide leader in art and culture. This $230 million project was 
over a decade in the making and will undoubtedly be the hub to both 
local pride and outside tourism. As a longtime fixture in our 
community, it is nothing short of proper that we recognize the Buffalo 
AKG for their commitment to providing a welcoming atmosphere to feature 
world-class exhibitions while serving as a hub for creative and 
educational programs. Their new campus is nothing short of excellent 
and their recognition at this event is well-earned.
  This year's Woman of Distinction Award is given to Jody Briandi, the 
President and Managing Partner of Hurwitz Fine P.C. A woman of numerous 
awards and recognitions, Jody has experience in state. federal, and 
appellate courts across New York State. Her sterling reputation as a 
professional litigator is matched by her willingness to improve her 
community and assist others. She has invested her time and attention to 
helping women realize their full leadership potential and advocate for 
diversity, equity, and inclusion. Jody is a success in all her 
endeavors and a model citizen in our community.
  Lastly, Gilbane Building Company is spearheading the project to build 
the new Buffalo Bills stadium and being recognized as the Business of 
the Year. A 1.35 million square foot structure, this task is no small 
feat, but will prove to be the home to our fans and community. 
Thousands of workers and hours of labor will be dedicated to this 
state-of-the-art facility under the leadership of Gilbane. Notably, 40 
percent of contracts for this project have been awarded to minority, 
women, or service-disabled veteran-owned companies. Gilbane is placing 
an emphasis on relationships with local businesses and residents to 
ensure that this project will benefit our local economy.
  Congratulations to the 2023 Amherst Chamber of Commerce honorees; 
Goodwill of Western New York, Lawley Insurance, Spectrum Reach, Buffalo 
AKG Museum, Jody Briandi, and Gilbane Building Company. I would like to 
thank each person, group, and company that continues to contribute to 
the growth and prosperity of Western New York.

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