NIAGARA USA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
2025 CHAMBER HONORS AWARDEES
May 8, 2025 | DoubleTree by Hilton Niagara Falls
BUSINESS OF THE YEAR
Lockport Memorial Hospital
Lockport Memorial Hospital, a campus of Mount St. Mary’s Hospital in Lewiston, stands as a beacon of modern healthcare on land once part of Lockport’s historic Hall’s Apple Farm. Dedicated to serving Eastern Niagara County, the hospital ensures seamless patient care through advanced technology, including telehealth systems that allow specialists from Catholic Health to remotely consult with patients and local physicians.
The facility offers a comprehensive range of healthcare services, including emergency and inpatient care, diagnostics, and a multi-specialty health center providing primary and specialized medical care such as OB/GYN, Cardiology, ENT, and Orthopedics. With a highly trained, versatile medical team and cutting-edge technology, Lockport Memorial Hospital delivers essential healthcare services efficiently and compassionately, enabling patients to receive exceptional care close to home.
BUSINESSPERSON OF THE YEAR
Bob Confer
Bob Confer is the president of Confer Plastics, Inc., a family-owned company founded in 1973 in North Tonawanda, NY. Under his leadership, Confer Plastics has grown to employ 150 individuals, producing popular outdoor leisure products such as pool accessories, patio furniture, sleds, kayaks, and docks.
Bob is deeply engaged in community service, regularly contributing opinion columns to the Niagara Gazette and the Lockport Union-Sun & Journal, as well as nature columns to the Wellsville Sun. He hosts “WNY Tonight” and “Scouting Today” on Lockport Community Television and has devoted over 30 years to Scouting America. A proud SUNY Brockport alumnus, he actively supports his alma mater. Bob and his wife, Bernadette, reside in Gasport with their four children: Alexandria, Warren, Arielle, and Clark.
GROUNDBREAKING AWARD
Big Ditch Brewing Company
Big Ditch Brewing Company began in 2011 with aspiring scientists and beer enthusiasts Matt Kahn and Corey Catalano, who first brewed in a repurposed food-grade bucket. Their passion grew into a fully realized brewery and taproom with investor Paul Iskalo joining their ambitious venture.
Opened in downtown Buffalo in 2014, Big Ditch quickly expanded from keg distribution to operating a thriving Tap Room by 2015, followed by statewide distribution of canned beer in 2016. Today, Big Ditch is Buffalo’s largest brewery and among New York State’s top ten independently owned breweries, celebrated for its quality beers, inviting atmosphere, and commitment to Western New York’s craft beer scene.
FATHER JOSEPH LEVESQUE AWARD FOR COMMUNITY ADVOCACY
Kory Schuler
Kory Schuler is the Director of Government Affairs and Special Projects at Empower, a prominent nonprofit in Niagara Falls, NY, dedicated to supporting individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. In his current role, he engages closely with local, state, and federal officials, advocating for policies and funding that enhance vital community services.
Previously, Kory served for nine years as President and CEO of the Niagara USA Chamber of Commerce, where he played a key role in driving economic development, shaping legislative priorities, and strengthening business advocacy across Niagara County. Known for his collaborative approach, he helped unify regional stakeholders, elevating the Chamber as a significant voice within the business community.
Beyond his professional commitments, Kory is a recognized community leader and a 2016 graduate of Leadership Niagara. His career reflects a deep-seated passion for public service, economic growth, and inclusive community initiatives. His recent transition to Empower underscores his ongoing dedication to creating positive, impactful change for the residents and broader community of Niagara County.
GREEN INITIATIVE AWARD – SPONSORED BY NATIONAL GRID
Kerry, Niagara Site
Sustainable nutrition company Kerry shapes the future of food and beverages by creating healthier, tastier solutions that benefit people, the planet, and society. Partnering with leading global food and beverage companies, Kerry ensures products are affordable, nutritious, environmentally responsible, and delicious.
Following Kerry’s acquisition of Niacet in 2021, Kerry Niacet became the global leader in Food Protection & Preservation, significantly extending shelf life and enhancing safety for Meat and Bakery products. With over 20,000 employees across 124 manufacturing locations worldwide, Kerry serves sustainable nutrition solutions to over a billion consumers annually, targeting two billion by 2030. In North America, Kerry operates nearly 50 manufacturing sites with almost 6,000 employees, generating €3.1 billion revenue in 2024, including significant contributions from its Niagara Falls facility.
COLLABORATION AND INNOVATION AWARD
Arlene M. (Jackson) Doss
Born in Niagara Falls, NY, Arlene Jackson Doss has led a life rooted in service, faith, and community empowerment. She pursued studies in Mental Health and Substance Abuse Counseling at Erie County Community College, earning her Bachelor’s in Social Work from Niagara University and an MBA from Argosy University. Arlene holds a Lean Six Sigma Black Belt, achieving significant savings for the U.S. Army.
Arlene’s remarkable 38-year Army Reserve career includes serving as an Equal Opportunity Officer during Desert Storm and Operation Iraqi Freedom, retiring honorably as Master Sergeant. In retirement, she founded Niagara United Vision, Inc., which revitalizes communities through community gardens, a Juneteenth Scholarship Gala, and recreation space improvements. Arlene is recognized for her resilience, mentorship, and lifelong commitment to enhancing the lives of others.
EXCELLENCE IN LEADERSHIP AWARD
Michael A. Casale
Michael Casale has dedicated his career to fostering economic development in Niagara County since 1993, initially as Director of Tourism, then Deputy Commissioner of Business Development, and currently as Commissioner of the Department of Economic Development. He leads initiatives in business growth, planning, zoning, and brownfield development.
Mike actively serves numerous boards, including Niagara County’s Workforce Development, Agriculture and Farmland Protection, and Invest Buffalo Niagara, and chairs the Niagara County Economic Development Alliance. Passionate about community service, Mike is deeply involved with St. John de LaSalle Church, supporting its Catholic Charities Appeal and food pantry. Mike resides in Lewiston with his wife, Kelley, and their children Zachary, Jacob, Alexandra, and Kristianne.
CHAIRWOMAN’S AWARD
The Wurlitzer Building
The historic Wurlitzer Building, a beloved landmark and gateway to Niagara County, originated as the North Tonawanda Barrel Organ Factory before becoming the renowned producer of theater organs. Today, it uniquely blends historical charm and modern functionality, housing retail spaces like Platter’s Chocolate Factory and premier event facilities.
Wurlitzer Events offers versatile, industrial-chic spaces suitable for weddings, corporate events, and celebrations. Distinctive rooms like the Tower Room, Wurlitzer Room, and Recital Room feature exposed beams, oversized windows, and lush outdoor areas. With state-of-the-art amenities and unique design elements, the Wurlitzer Building continues its legacy as a vibrant hub of community and culture in Western New York.