T
he Lehigh Valley Commercial & Industrial Real Estate Foundation has announced its 31st annual awards breakfast, set to take place on October 25 at the ArtsQuest Center at SteelStacks in Bethlehem. This year's honorees are the Da Vinci Science Center and Dick Bus, president of ATAS International.

    The Da Vinci Science Center has been named "Project of the Year" for its significant impact on the community through real estate development that creates jobs and stimulates economic growth. The center recently opened a new facility in downtown Allentown, marking a major milestone in its mission to inspire science learning.

    Dick Bus, president of ATAS International, has been recognized as "Person of the Year" for his leadership in commercial real estate and commitment to giving back to the community. In addition to his work at ATAS, a manufacturer of metal panels and accessories, Bus has served on industry associations and advocated for education programs that promote careers in manufacturing, architecture, engineering, and construction.

    Last year's breakfast drew over 465 attendees and raised more than $180,000, with proceeds supporting the Neonatal Intensive Care Units of St. Luke's University Health Network and Lehigh Valley Health Network. This year's event will also benefit these organizations. Frank Smith, a founding member of the LV CIRE Foundation, expressed enthusiasm for the impact that the annual breakfast has had on raising funds for local healthcare initiatives over the years.