LEGISLATIVE RESOLUTION honoring Becker Farms and Vizcarra Vineyards upon
the occasion of its designation as recipient of the 2013 Business of the
Year Award by the New York State Agricultural Society

WHEREAS, The agricultural industry is part of the foundation upon which
our distinct American heritage is built; and
WHEREAS, This Legislative Body takes great pride in acknowledging
outstanding individuals and businesses associated with the agricultural
industry which clearly contribute to the spirit of excellence that so
distinguishes the State of New York; and
WHEREAS, Attendant to such concern and fully in accord with its long-
standing traditions, this Legislative Body is justly proud to honor
Becker Farms and Vizcarra Vineyards upon the occasion of its designation
as recipient of the 2013 Business of the Year Award by the New York
State Agricultural Society; and
WHEREAS, The auspicious Business of the Year Award was created by the
New York State Agricultural Society in 2001; its aim is to promote New
York's food system and recognize the quality, leadership and innovation
demonstrated by New York agribusinesses; and
WHEREAS, Owners Oscar and Melinda Vizcarra operate the farm alongside
their three children, Amanda, Andres, and Oscar Jr.; today, they contin-
ue to expand with recent developments including a Community Supported
Agriculture program, 100-Mile Radius Meals and a new wedding and event
venue; and
WHEREAS, Becker Farms and Vizcarra Vineyards, located in the Town of
Gasport, Niagara County, was founded in 1894 by Julius and Augusta Beck-
er; from its roots as a livestock, fruit and vegetable farm, the Vizcar-
ra Family has expanded the business to include a winery, microbrewery,
tours and private events; and
WHEREAS, Becker Farms is a 340-acre working fruit and vegetable farm
that has, for the past 100 years, harvested its own fruits and vegeta-
bles to provide fresh produce and a wide variety of products; this
thriving Farm proudly sells its products directly to the public; and
WHEREAS, Innovation, industry leadership, progressive management and a
true love of fruit and vegetable farming have kept the Vizcarra Family
farming for five generations, and have justly earned them a New York
State Agricultural Society 2013 Business of the Year Award; and
WHEREAS, It is the sense of this Legislative Body that those family-
owned and operated businesses which enhance the well-being and vitality
of their community and have shown a long and sustained commitment to
excellence certainly have earned the recognition and applause of all the
citizens of this great Empire State; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
honor Becker Farms and Vizcarra Vineyards upon the occasion of its
designation as recipient of the 2013 Business of the Year Award by the
New York State Agricultural Society; and be it further
RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be tran-
smitted to the Vizcarra Family.