Since moving to Buffalo in fourth grade, I’ve been lucky to establish many lasting friendships over the years. I distinctly remember the frigid day in February 1969 when my parents informed my five siblings and me that we were relocating to Buffalo. As Norm and Ellie drove us to St. Gregs for our first day, I met Rich Weber, the Leonard twins, and Mark Metz, who have remained my cherished friends for over 53 years. I’ve since formed countless other valuable relationships, which have been integral to my career. “Relationships that last a lifetime” has been my mantra in business, and it’s a principle that has served me well. A friend once told me, “A friendship founded on business is a good deal better than a business founded on friendship,” and I couldn’t agree more.