Can You Help?

Lawrence (Henry) Martell benefit

•On Saturday, June 5, from 4 until 9 p.m., there will be a spaghetti dinner benefit with basket raffles and a 50/50 split for Lawrence Henry Martell. The benefit will be held at the American Legion, 8643 Buffalo Ave., Niagara Falls.

The cost is $15 per adult and $7 per child. 

This benefit is to help Lawrence (Henry) and his family with his overwhelming medical bills. In 2008, he was diagnosed with lung cancer. He has recently been diagnosed with brain cancer, Agent Orange, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. He currently receives treatment from Roswell Cancer Institute for this horrible disease.

Lawrence (Henry) is originally from Sawville, Pa. After graduation, he joined the military and did a term in Vietnam from February 1966 to November 1967 in the 199th Light Infantry Division. After his honorable discharge from the military, he immediately relocated to the Western New York area where he has resided for the past 43 years.

After relocating to the Niagara County area, he found employment with Nabisco at the Niagara Falls location from 1967 until it closed its doors in 2001. He then retired for a brief time but, because of his fun-loving demeanor toward his community, he briefly took a position with Marshalls until his failing health eventually took over.

Now Lawrence (Henry) spends most of his time at home with his loving and supportive wife, Carol (Scrivano) Martell, at their Town of Wheatfield residence where they have lived for the past 20 years. During this difficult time he also has the support of his daughter, Tina, and between treatments spends as much quality time with his grandchildren Mitchell, and Remi, as possible.

His family and friends ask you to join them at this benefit for a man who has contributed so much to his country and community. At this time, they are still looking for donations for basket raffles. Also, if anyone would like to make a financial donation because they cannot attend this dinner, it will be accepted at any M&T Bank for Lawrence (Henry) Martell c/o Lawrence & Carol Martell.

With the support of local business associations and residents, the team behind Lawrence (Henry) is hoping to help alleviate some of his debt, and the stress that he feels on a daily basis.

For more information, contact Pam Martell at 236-7470.

Michael Frederick benefit

•The family and friends of Michael Frederick will hold a fundraiser on Saturday, June 19, at Mallwitz's Island Lanes, 1887 Whitehaven Road, Grand Island.

On April 1, Michael tragically lost his life in an accident. He left behind a young wife, Kristia Gatti Frederick, a 3-week-old baby, Maverick, 4-year-old Charlotte and 11-year-old Ian.

To help offset the financial burden placed on Michael's loved ones, a benefit will take place at the bowling alley. It runs from 3 until 7 p.m. and features food, desserts and baskets. Prizes include an autographed Steve Tasker Buffalo Bills jersey and a necklace.

Tickets are $20 for non-bowlers and $25 for bowlers.

Donations (monetary, gift certificates, baskets, food) are gladly accepted. Items may be dropped off at Century 21 Winklhofer, 1770 Grand Island Blvd., Grand Island, attention Shari Schmidt (743-6292). For more information, call 697-6188.