Longtime New York Congressman Stepping Down

It seems that one of the biggest Buffalo backers in Washington, D.C., is on the verge of calling it quits and is looking to make a career move from government service to the non-profit sector.

According to news reports from WIVB-TV, New York State Congressman Brian Higgins is planning to step down from his position in Congress.

It's being reported that Higgins, who has represented Western New York in Congress for nearly since 2005, is on the verge of taking a job at Shea's Performing Arts Center in downtown Buffalo.

Who Is Brian Higgins?

A lifelong resident of Buffalo, Brian Michael Higgins earned his college degree from Buffalo State College. Higgins later earned a Master of Public Administration degree from Harvard University.

Before representing Western New York in Congress, Higgins served as a Member of the New York State Assembly from 1999 to 2004 and as a Member of the Buffalo Common Council from 1988 to 1993.

During his career, Higgins has been a staunch supporter of Western New York in Congress. He serves on the House Committee on Ways and Means, the House Homeland Security Committee, and the House Committee on the Budget. Also, he is the Co-chair of the House Cancer Caucus and the Revitalizing Older Cities Task Force.

What's Happening At Shea's?

Shea's Performing Arts Center on Main Street in downtown Buffalo is the premier theatre in Western New York, which serves as the host of Broadway musicals on tour, along with various special events in Buffalo, New York.

The theatre opened in 1926 and has been without a President and CEO for more than a year.