Unfortunately, Performance doesn't have any stores near Buffalo, NY, so the OP would have to go quite a distance to find a performance store. They only ship their bikes to their retail stores. (And the other poster who lives in Alabama would have to go to Atlanta to find a Performance store.)

That being said, there are other stores that sell Fuji's, and they should certainly be included in the discussion.

But someone did bring up a good point. Is the bike meant to be a commuter even in the winter? If so, then the OP should probably consider a Gravel / Adventure bike, as they will do better on the snow covered roads than more true road bikes with skinnier tires.

Also, is $1000 the budget for only the bike, or is it the budget for the bike and accessories?

For commuting, the OP is probably going to want fenders, pannier, racks, headlight/taillight. Many road bikes do not support fenders and racks, so he'll need to ask specifically about those features, and it will probably narrow down his choices to Endurance bikes, Gravel/Adventure bikes, and Touring bikes. Also, with all the muck of the snow during this time of year, the OP might want to get disc brakes. I don't often suggest it as a necessity, but in Buffalo in the winter, it might be reeeeeeeeeeeeeeeally nice to have.

My Fuji Sportif does support fenders/racks, and comes with 28mm wide tires. It also has disc brakes. It might be able to support 32mm tires, but it would be close, because of the chain stays.

I also agree that the OP should find a LBS, because fit is the most important thing for a new rider. I'd also suggest going to several LBSs and road testing several bikes that they suggest will fit your budget and riding preferences. Unfortunately, this may not be the best time of year for road testing bikes in Buffalo.

Good Luck,

GH