Worship leader and songwriter Tiffany Hudson (Elevation Worship, ELEVATION RHYTHM) releases her new live worship album, “When You’re In The Room,” available today on all streaming platforms here. 

Recorded live during Elevation Church’s “Presence Nights,” the 10-track project captures the atmosphere of extended evenings dedicated to worship, prayer, and God's presence. Rather than recording in a traditional studio setting, Hudson chose to capture the songs in the same environment where they first came to life.

“This project was born out of a hunger for the presence of God,” she shared. “My prayer is that these songs help people encounter Jesus in a real and personal way. More than anything, I hope they create space for people to know him.”

The album follows the recent releases of “Jesus The Only” featuring Davide Mutendji, “Room” featuring John Wilds, and “Fire In My Bones,” introducing listeners to a project centered on adoration, surrender, revival, and a deeper pursuit of Jesus. Additional guest appearances on the album include Leeland Mooring.

Designed to remove distractions and focus entirely on Christ, “Presence Nights” became the foundation for the project and its title. Recorded live in those gatherings, “When You’re In The Room” preserves moments of congregational worship, prayer and devotion while inviting listeners into a deeper awareness of God’s presence.

“Why do people want to spend eternity with a God they don’t even know?” Hudson reflects. “We have this invitation right now to know him. That’s my hope for every person who listens to this project.”

At its core, the project reflects the longing that has shaped Hudson’s life and ministry, an invitation not just to sing about God, but to truly know him.

More about Tiffany Hudson: A worship leader, songwriter and recording artist, as well as a member of the award-winning collective Elevation Worship, Tiffany Hudson is known for leading songs such as “More Than Able,” “SO BE IT,” “New Thing Coming” and “Jesus Be The Name.” She has become one of the group’s recognizable voices. As part of the multi-Platinum-certified ensemble, she has earned a Grammy Award, two Billboard Music Awards, nine GMA Dove Awards, and a K-LOVE Fan Award, with numerous songs appearing in the CCLI Top 100 and multiple No. 1 Christian radio hits.

Hudson released her debut solo project, “Hidden Here,” in 2023 and continues contributing to new worship music across the Elevation family, including collaborations “At The Altar” with ELEVATION RHYTHM and Abbie Gamboa, as well as her own song “The Wonderful Blood,” co-written with Josh Holiday and Gamboa. 

M&T Bank press release & logo

M&T Bank has introduced the “Meet Me Downtown” initiative, a collaborative effort bringing together public, private and nonprofit partners to strengthen the vibrancy of downtown Buffalo. Spearheaded by M&T Bank, “Meet Me Downtown” empowers local groups to create and expand community-focused events through grant funding, sponsorship support and strategic, hands-on assistance. This summer, the initiative will help mobilize six events beginning in July, featuring a variety of experiences.

M&T executives were joined by Erie County Executive Mark Poloncarz, Buffalo Mayor Sean Ryan, Visit Buffalo President and CEO Patrick Kaler, Buffalo Place Executive Director Peter Burakowski and event organizers Thursday at Buffalo City Hall to announce the initiative.

“ ‘Meet Me Downtown’ is a call to action to engage, discover what’s happening across the city, and bring others with you. By aligning partners and driving participation, we’re building momentum that increases foot traffic, supports small businesses and drives economic activity downtown,” said Tracy Woodrow, M&T Bank chief administrative officer and Western New York regional president.

M&T Bank’s “Meet Me Downtown” builds on its “Mission Main Street” initiative, a successful 2025 pilot program that directed grant funding and assistance to events in Buffalo’s Main Street corridor. After evaluating last year’s learnings and initial momentum, M&T worked with more than 60 community partners to design a more robust program that reaches across the downtown district and aims to engage more people.

This year’s “Meet Me Downtown” will feature six headline events:

•"Home By 10” block parties – July 11 and Aug. 8, Chippewa Street: Hosted by the Chippewa Alliance, these events will bring together eight venues for a nostalgic dance party featuring 1990s and 2000s music. Designed with parents and early risers in mind, the events offer adults a fun night out without late-night hours. Doors open at 6 p.m., with a 10 p.m. close. Tickets are $10 and available in advance for the July 11 and Aug. 8 events.

•Street Soccer Cup & World Cup watch party – July 18, Chippewa Avenue: A collaboration between Buffalo Pro Soccer and the Chippewa Alliance, this joint event features an all-day 5v5 soccer tournament for ages 10 and older, followed by a World Cup third-place match watch party. Teams can register for the Street Soccer Cup here.

•Picklefest – Aug. 16, Buffalo RiverWorks: Organized by The Mind Over Foundation, this all-things-pickle event returns with a one-day pickleball tournament, along with pickle-themed food, beverages and experiences from Buffalo’s favorite vendors. Participants can sign up for the pickleball tournament here.

•The Main Block Party – Aug. 29, Fountain Plaza: Led by Buffalo Fashion Runway, this free, all-ages celebration combines fashion, culture, music, food, small businesses and community. Following a successful inaugural year, the event returns with expanded vendors, entertainment, family-friendly activities and interactive experiences. RSVP and learn more here.

•Circle the Square 2 – Sept. 26, Niagara Square: GOBike Buffalo rounds out the 2026 lineup with a family-friendly relay to complete 150 laps around Niagara Square. Participants can ride bikes, scooters, rollerblades and more – as long as they are nonmotorized. Participants can register here.

“Summer is here and, as people are looking for things to do and ways to get together, the ‘Meet Me Downtown’ event series will have entertainment and events that will be fun for all, easy to attend and will make the summer months even more enjoyable,” Poloncarz said. “These will be opportunities to enjoy the downtown atmosphere all over again while spending time with family and friends. Erie County is proud to stand with the team that brought this concept to life. This summer when people are wondering what to do for fun in Buffalo, they’ll just say, ‘Meet Me Downtown!’ ”

Ryan said, “Building a better Buffalo requires strong partnerships and a shared commitment to investing in our city. ‘Meet Me Downtown’ is the kind of innovative collaboration that we need to create a more vibrant downtown. This initiative will encourage residents and visitors to experience everything Buffalo has to offer beyond the traditional workday. I'm grateful to M&T Bank and all of the partners helping bring new energy and excitement to the heart of our city.”

Kaler said, “Downtown Buffalo is the front door to the Buffalo-Niagara Region and often makes the first impression on visitors. Initiatives like ‘Meet Me Downtown’ help create the kind of energy that makes people want to explore, stay longer and visit again. We’re proud to partner with M&T Bank and so many community organizations to showcase the experiences, businesses and people that make downtown Buffalo such an important part of our tourism economy.”

Burakowski said, "Strong downtowns are built through partnerships, shared investment and a commitment to creating experiences that bring people together. ‘Meet Me Downtown’ is an exciting example of what can be accomplished when the public, private and nonprofit sectors work toward a common goal. M&T Bank has long been a valued partner in Buffalo Place's efforts to activate and strengthen Downtown Buffalo, including its support of the 10th Anniversary season of Thursday & Main and the 44th Anniversary season of the Downtown Country Market. We are proud to join them and so many community organizations in expanding opportunities for residents, workers and visitors to discover all that Downtown has to offer while supporting the businesses, venues and institutions that contribute to its ongoing growth and vitality."

“Meet Me Downtown” is M&T Bank’s newest downtown vibrancy initiative, adding to its longstanding commitment to the neighborhood that has been its headquarters for 170 years. M&T also sponsors the “Thursday & Main Concert Series,” Downtown Country Market, “Third Thursdays at Explore & More – The Ralph C. Wilson Jr. Children’s Museum,” and is the presenting sponsor of the Buffalo Waterfront’s July 3 “Sound & Sky on the Waterfront” fireworks display.

Earlier this summer, M&T Bank directed grant funding – and M&T employees provided volunteer support – to the Buffalo Urban Development Corp. to help complete improvements at three key intersections. Together, these efforts boost local economic activity and contribute to a more dynamic downtown.

M&T is a financial holding company headquartered in Buffalo. Its principal banking subsidiary, M&T Bank, provides banking products and services with a branch and ATM network spanning the eastern U.S. from Maine to Virginia and Washington, D.C. Trust-related services are provided in select markets in the U.S. and abroad by M&T's Wilmington Trust-affiliated companies and by M&T Bank. For more information about M&T Bank, visit www.mtb.com.

New album, ‘It’s A Dying Art,’ out Aug. 28 via MCA; preorder & save here

Press release

Multi-Platinum Grammy Award-winning Little Big Town – Karen Fairchild, Kimberly Schlapman, Phillip Sweet and Jimi Westbrook – have shared their new song, “Sucker For A Sad Song” featuring Ashley Monroe. Listen here. Watch the official music video here, directed by Becky Fluke. Written by Fairchild, Monroe and Shelby Lynne, the song blends clever wordplay and a simmering, easygoing swagger, serving as the opening track from their forthcoming album, “It’s A Dying Art,” arriving Aug. 28 via MCA. 

Little Big Town also announced an exclusive D2C “Champagne” vinyl variant of the “It’s A Dying Art” album, with limited copies available exclusively at littlebigtown.com. This variant will be signed by the band and available while supplies last.

Co-produced by two-time Grammy winner Gena Johnson (Jason Isbell, Dolly Parton, Brandi Carlile) and Little Big Town’s own Fairchild, “It’s A Dying Art” blends intimate storytelling, emotional balladry, and a focus on human-made music shaped by imperfection and lived experience. The album features collaborations with friends including Monroe, Isbell, and Kelsea Ballerini, and reflects more than 25 years of chemistry and trust within the band.

Little Big Town first previewed the project with the poignant “Hey There Sunshine,” which debuted at the 61st Academy of Country Music Awards to widespread acclaim (The Tennessean calling it “a hopeful, healing moment,” and Billboard praising it as “a timely message from one of country music’s greatest vocal groups”). They followed with “Over and Over,” which Billboard hailed as a “top-shelf post-breakup anthem.” Additional standout tracks include the relationship-worn “The Door” featuring Isbell, the late-night soul of “Closing Time” with Ballerini, the fiery “It’s Coming Around,” and the visceral “The Idea.”

Next up, Little Big Town is set to perform at “Alan Jackson’s Last Call: One More for the Road – The Finale” – the last full-length concert of Jackson’s touring career – taking place this Saturday, June 27, at Nashville’s Nissan Stadium. The band will also appear live on the “Today” Plaza on Sept. 1 as part of “Today’s Citi Concert Series."

This fall, Little Big Town will kick off their “For The Art Of It Tour.” Produced by Live Nation and in support of the forthcoming album, the U.S. and Canada dates kick off Sept. 24 in St. Petersburg, Florida, and include stops in Atlanta, Boston, Philadelphia, Dallas, Houston, Chicago and Toronto. Prior to that, LBT performs July 10 at Fallsview Casino in Canada. For tickets and more information, visit https://www.littlebigtown.com/tour. 

Follow Little Big Town: Instagram | X/Twitter | YouTube | Facebook | official site.

√ To release ‘Let Love In (20th Anniversary Edition)’ July 24 via Warner Records; preorder here

Press release

Goo Goo Dolls premiered a live and intimate rendition of their track “Stay With You.” The new release appears on the “Let Love In (20th Anniversary Edition),” an extended version of the band's acclaimed album, which is due July 24 via Warner Records. This 21-track, limited-edition release features the original album and 10 "Live and Intimate" recordings from a special session captured at Capitol Studios. Originally released in 2006, “Let Love In” peaked at No. 9 on the Billboard 200 and was certified Gold in 2019 by RIAA. 

The 20th anniversary LP is pressed on red eye vinyl and includes a 12-page lyric booklet, but does not include the “Live and Intimate” session.

Listen to/share "Stay With You (Live and Intimate)" here; preorder “Let Love In (20th Anniversary Edition”) here.

On the heels of going viral, the band’s Diamond-certified hit “Iris” is experiencing a massive boom with the “Mom/Dad, what were you like in the 90s?” trend, which has accumulated over 10 billion views and counting. Sparked by Drew Barrymore’s Instagram post on Feb. 24, this trend has exploded and now features contributions from key celebrities such as Will Smith, Serena Williams, Dwayne Johnson, Reese Witherspoon, Sharon Stone, John Stamos, Backstreet Boys, Brooke Shields, Halle Berry, Usher, Jessica Alba, Snoop Dogg, Shaquille O'Neal, Anne Hathaway, Aerosmith and SZA.

The four-times-Grammy-nominated track has garnered over 6 billion streams to date worldwide, amassing over 1 billion streams in 2025 alone. Originally released in 1998, “Iris” continues to reach new audiences around the world. Most recently, the track was nominated for “Best Throwback Song” at the American Music Awards.

Fresh off a sold-out Las Vegas residency in May, the band will take its lauded live show back on the road this summer with an extensive run of U.S. tour dates with Neon Trees. Kicking off July 24, the tour includes performances at Minneapolis’ Mystic Lake Amphitheater, Richmond’s Allianz Amphitheatre at Riverfront, Milwaukee’s BMO Pavilion, Cincinnati’s Rose Music Center at The Heights, Pittsburgh’s The Pavilion at Star Lake and Charleston’s Credit One Stadium. Tickets and information for all tour dates can be found here.

New York State Department of Environmental Conservation Commissioner Amanda Lefton announced a “Free Fishing Weekend” will take place June 27-28 as part of six designated “Free Fishing Days” that take place each year in New York. During these days, the fishing license requirement is waived for freshwater fishing on state waters.

“With summer officially here, the timing of these ‘Free Fishing Days’ couldn’t be better,” Lefton said. “New York is home to thousands of angling opportunities across our abundant freshwater lakes, ponds, streams and rivers. Fishing is an affordable and rewarding pastime and I encourage everyone to get outside and visit New York’s waters during this ‘Free Fishing Weekend.’ ”

DEC’s “Free Fishing Days” program began in 1991 to give New Yorkers who might not fish a chance to try the rewarding sport of freshwater fishing at no cost, introduce people to a new hobby, and encourage people to support conservation by purchasing a New York state fishing license.

“Free Fishing Days” further support Gov. Kathy Hochul's “Get Offline, Get Outside” initiative that promotes physical and mental health by encouraging New York’s children and families to put down their phones and computers, take a break from social media, and enjoy recreation and outdoor social gatherings. One of the ways teens and youth can find ideas to get offline is through DEC’s “Get Offline, Get Outside Challenge,” which offers 50 fun and interesting activities for youth to complete by the age of 19.

In addition to “Free Fishing Days,” there are also “learn to fish” opportunities available through DEC-approved free fishing clinics. For a list of currently scheduled programs, visit DEC’s website.

To help make fishing more affordable and help inspire the next generation of anglers, DEC has also partnered with libraries across the state on a fishing rod lending program. While borrowing a book, library patrons can sign out fishing equipment (spin casting rods, bobbers, hooks). This program offers an opportunity for people to try fishing before deciding to purchase their own gear. For more information and a list of the more than 80 participating libraries, visit DEC’s website.

“Free Fishing Day” participants are reminded that, although the requirement for a freshwater fishing license is waived during “Free Fishing Days,” all other fishing regulations remain in effect. Outside of free fishing days, anglers over the age of 16 must have a valid fishing license. For more information on purchasing a license, visit DEC’s website.

The New York State Department of Health provides advice to anglers about what fish are safe to eat and how often. Visit DOH’s website to search by waterbody location.

The remaining “Free Fishing Days” of 2026 will take place Sept. 26 (National Hunting and Fishing Day) and Nov. 11 (Veterans Day).

Erie County District Attorney Michael J. Keane announced jury found Julian E. Taylor, 32, of Buffalo, guilty of one count of attempted murder in the second degree, one count of assault in the first degree (class B violent felonies) and one count of criminal possession of a weapon in the third degree (class D felony). Jurors rendered their decision Thursday afternoon after approximately six hours of deliberation following a two-day trial, convicting the defendant of all counts in the indictment.

On Thursday, July 31, 2025, at approximately 8:14 p.m., the defendant was involved in a verbal dispute with his girlfriend outside of their shared residence on Greene Street in the City of Buffalo. During the argument, the defendant hit the victim with his hands until she fell onto the driveway. The defendant intentionally caused serious physical injuries to the victim by means of a dangerous instrument while she was on the ground. The defendant attempted to cause the death of the victim by striking her multiple times in the head and body with a shovel before a witness intervened.

The defendant was quickly apprehended by a responding police officer. The victim, a 29-year-old female, was taken by ambulance to ECMC where she remained hospitalized for several weeks to receive treatment for serious physical injuries, including multiple skull fractures and injuries to her arms.

Taylor faces a maximum of 25 years in prison when he is sentenced before State Supreme Court Justice Deborah A. Haendiges. He remains held without bail. Temporary orders of protection, issued on behalf of the victim and a witness, remain in effect.

Keane commends officer Aaron Stenzel, Det. Lauren Sterlace, Det. Nicholas Skalski and Det. Scott Seifert of the Buffalo Police Department for their work in this investigation, as well as the Buffalo Fire Department, paramedics and medical personnel at ECMC.

The case was prosecuted by Assistant District Attorney Jordynn-Celeste Harter of the domestic violence bureau and Assistant District Attorney Monica J. Benjovsky of the felony trials bureau.

If you or someone you know is a victim or may be at-risk of domestic violence, help is available through the BE SAFE domestic violence victim advocacy program. While the staff specializes in trauma-informed support and victim advocacy following the arrest of an offender, you do not need to have a pending criminal case to speak with an advocate and access services. For more information on BE SAFE, call 716-858-4630 or visit www.erie.gov/besafe.

Niagara Hospice is looking forward to the 13th annual Hospice Gran Fondo bike ride, taking place Aug. 1. “Gran Fondo” originates in Italy, where long-distance bike rides are followed by large celebrations. The event starts and ends at the Niagara Hospice campus, located at 4675 Sunset Drive, Lockport.

The Hospice Gran Fondo offers riders the choice of a 15-, 33- or 62-mile route. Each one features a number of rest stops stocked with refreshments. Following the ride, participants return to the Niagara Hospice campus for the post-race celebration, featuring food, drinks and live music by MJ & the Way. Those who do not participate in the ride may purchase a separate ticket to attend the after-party.

Many individuals ride in memory of a loved one. Proceeds from the event support the specialized care and services provided by the nonprofit organization. Anyone interested in registering for the Hospice Gran Fondo can visit www.hospicegranfondo.com. Call 716-280-0766 for more information.

As I conclude my second term as mayor, I want to take a moment to express my sincere gratitude to the many people who have supported me throughout this incredible journey.

First and foremost, I want to thank my family. Public service requires countless hours, sacrifices, and unwavering support from those closest to you. I could not have served our community without their encouragement, patience and love.

I also want to thank the residents who placed their trust in me, voted for me, and supported me over the years. Serving this village has been one of the greatest honors of my life. After 43 years of service to the village in various capacities, I leave with a heart full of gratitude and pride in all that we have accomplished together.

While election results did not go our way this time, I am incredibly proud of what we achieved during my tenure. Together, we worked to make our community stronger, improve services, support local businesses, and enhance the quality of life for our residents. These accomplishments belong to all of us.

A special thank you goes to my deputy mayor, Vic Eydt, whose guidance, friendship and support over the years have meant more than words can express. I am also grateful to my running mate, Rob Nichols, for his dedication, hard work, and commitment to our community throughout this campaign.

Over the years, I had the privilege of working alongside four mayors, learning valuable lessons from each and gaining a deeper appreciation for the importance of public service. I have also had the opportunity to collaborate with countless government officials, community organizations, business leaders, and residents. Through those relationships, I have developed many lasting friendships that I will always cherish.

To our village staff: Thank you for your dedication, professionalism and friendship.

To the Department of Public Works, the Recreation Department, Police Department, boards and commissions and all village employees: Your hard work often happens behind the scenes, but it is essential to the success of our community. I am deeply grateful for everything you do.

I would also like to thank my fellow board members, both past and present. While we did not always agree on every issue, we shared a common goal of serving the best interests of our residents and moving our village forward.

Finally, to our residents and business owners: Thank you for your investment in our community, your ideas, your support, and your belief in our future. It has been a privilege to serve you.

As I step away from this role, I do so with tremendous pride, gratitude, and optimism for what lies ahead for our village. Public service has been an important part of my life, and I will always be thankful for the opportunity to have served this community that I love.

Thank you for allowing me the honor of being your mayor.

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Editor-in-Chief

Improvement projects occupied much of the discussion at Monday’s Lewiston Town Board session.

Among them, a new location for the pickleball courts proposed earlier by Supervisor Steve Broderick. He said the town’s $750,000 pickleball court project submitted for Niagara River Greenway Commission review in April included one pickleball court at Richard F. Soluri Park on the west end of the Portage Road plateau. A second pickleball facility would be located on the grounds of Lewiston No. 2 Fire Co. park on Saunders Settlement Road.

He said that, following the town’s April meeting with the Niagara River Greenway Commission – plus input from Lew-Port Youth Football parents and recent election changes with the Village of Lewiston – the town is now considering pickleball at Pletcher Road Park instead.

Greenway officials are scheduled to meet on the project again in September.

This week, Broderick revealed a change in plans.

“When we went to the Greenway Commission for approval, the Greenway Commission’s recommendation was we move them,” Broderick said.

He noted commission members were concerned about the court’s impacts to a nearby bird sanctuary on the plateau’s west end and suggested a location further east. Broderick said he learned the location could also interfere with the Lew-Port youth football program that’s nearby.

“The football players play up there; we had two meetings (with) the parents. They definitely voiced some concerns about losing territory, and we were going to clear some more area on the north end of the plateau,” Broderick said.

He added, “With the new administration (in the village), we need to take a step back (on the plateau site) and put it kind of on the back burner and maybe revisit the plateau at another time.

Broderick said, “We still want to move forward with pickleball, so I’m going to make a motion that we change the location from the plateau to Pletcher (Road) Park with the pickleball court.”

He stated the Pletcher Park option includes a nearby pavilion and would “save us a little bit of money” overall, while not disrupting the second pickleball court planned for the Lewiston No. 2 site. Broderick also said the Pletcher Road location corresponds with the Niagara Greenway mission and would be “an appropriate use of Greenway funds.”

Broderick’s proposal was seconded by Councilman Bill Burg and approved soon after by a 4-0 vote. Councilwoman Sarah Waechter was absent.

Chamber repairs

More projects discussed Monday included a town plan for repairs at the Upward Niagara Chamber of Commerce offices and welcome center at Academy Park. Broderick said the building, a former veterinary office that was moved and renovated about 15 years ago, is in need of significant repairs to its roof, doors and windows.

“We reached out to the chamber. When I was there last winter, there was snow coming in the windows, snow underneath their door, in their roof. You could actually see through the roof in small patches,” he said.

Village of Lewiston Engineer Mike Marino spec’d out the building rehab project so as to put it out for bid. Broderick presented a proposal submitted by Walter Johnson Building Co. of Niagara Falls for $167,905 to cover the overall repair work. Included is $111,000 for a new roof, along with one door and nine window replacements.

The numbers immediately caught the attention of Burg, a former town Planning Board member and a business owner working in construction materials.

“In my opinion, that’s a lot of money to replace windows that are 20 years old,” he said. “That’s way above what the market generally bears for window replacements or roofing.”

Broderick said the work with Walter Johnson would be a municipal contract with prevailing wages for the roof labor. In addition, the building’s roof would be of a higher-price cedar shake-type material, which had to clear the village’s Historic Preservation Committee criteria, along with other considerations on the historic building that drove up costs.

Still, Burg had questions.

“I’m saying the roof repair and for replacement of windows, that is way above the market,” he said.

Broderick explained the town has been unable to secure bids for government municipal work projects, mentioning the no-bid responses he has faced for work at the Lewiston Senior Center and a similar problem the Niagara County Water Department has been facing.

“We made a promise to the Chamber that we get them new windows and doors and a roof. We have the money in the H-98 (energy) account. I would like to move forward on it,” he said.

Attending board members said they wanted an opportunity to further review the construction specs and costs. At Broderick’s suggestion, the matter was tabled until the board’s next regular meeting in late-July.

In other news

•The town approved a $5,375 Swann Road traffic study to be performed by Invictus Civil Engineering of Lewiston. The work would entail an intersectional analysis of Swann and Model City roads “to identify and evaluate intersectional/traffic control deficiencies or potential improvements at the intersection.”

Funding would come from the town’s H-97 account for infrastructure.

•Town Highway Superintendent Mike Weiss reported on paving updates, as well as improvements planned at the Lewiston Dog Park. Weiss said paving was recently completed on Bronson Drive and, next up for crew work, is the Hillside-Orchard neighborhood, with milling to start July 14.

At the dog park, the board approved for $13,600 in ready mix concrete construction to address muddy conditions at the entrances and other transit areas.

Funding will come from the town’s H-97 recreation fund.

•Jeff Ritter, of the Lewiston Water Pollution Control Center, reported on ongoing work in the Morgan Farms neighborhood sewers.

“We’re putting the Morgan relief sewer in,” he said. “It’s going to take a lot longer than we expected, but the guys are making great progress.”

Ritter forecasted a late-July completion date.

Senior Contributing Writer

Eco Island is a place where Grand Island students have the opportunity to explore nature and overcome fears, said director Cyndi Booker.

Eco Island, which is owned by the Grand Island Central School District, is open three to five days a week from October to June.

On April 30, a group of second graders from Kaegebein Elementary School visited Eco Island to learn about insects and other animals. They looked at insects through a magiscope, which is a type of microscope. They made models of bees, they heard about the life cycle of frogs, and they learned about birds.

“I hope that they develop an appreciation for nature,” Booker said. “I want them to be able to ask questions and to really appreciate things. For example, some (children) might be fearful of some animals. I’d really like them to overcome those fears with knowledge. For instance, understanding how bees are and the difference between bees and wasps. Making sure they understand how important bees are and the importance of insects in general, because a lot of kids are pretty squeamish about insects. However, when they take a look at them under a magiscope, all of a sudden, it creates a new world for them to take a look at.”

Booker said Eco Island is designed to provide interactive learning for the students, as well as for the parents, who function as chaperones.

“It makes it more meaningful,” Booker explained. “I think that every person actually benefits from a hands-on learning experience, both young and old. I make it my mission to try to make it as engaging as possible. If we can make little model representations of what they actually see, it’s going to stay more permanently with them.”

Watching students experience nature at Eco Island is something Booker said she lives for. She said she likes to see “the joy on their faces when they ask questions and when they get excited about coming here. Especially when you hear them saying, not just to me but to themselves, ‘This is the best trip ever’ or ‘I’m having a great day.’ They charge me up in that way. I guess you could say I live for that. I also get a lot of those kinds of comments from parents, too. ‘I never knew that before.’

“Parents are the child’s first teachers. So, if they can get excited about seeing things that their children are doing, that’s going to be passed off to the entire family.

“But I also love the opportunity for kids, as well as parents, to teach me a few things, too. I’m not done learning.”

David Conboy, President

The Grand Island Neighbors Foundation is deeply grateful to have received a generous $4,500 donation from the Greater Buffalo Track Club (GBTC), made possible through the proceeds of the Grand Island Half Marathon held at Beaver Island State Park on May 2.

We extend our sincere appreciation to the Greater Buffalo Track Club, especially its president, Roger King, and the many sponsors, volunteers and participants whose support made this successful event possible.

Thanks, as well, to Neighbors Foundation board member Sue Nicol, whose leadership and dedication were instrumental in coordinating our involvement with this important fundraiser. Her efforts helped build a strong partnership that benefits the entire Grand Island community.

As an all-volunteer organization, the Neighbors Foundation relies on the generosity of individuals and organizations such as the GBTC to fulfill our mission of “Neighbors Helping Neighbors.”

These funds will be used to provide confidential food assistance to Grand Island residents facing food insecurity, helping ensure that local families have access to the support they need.

To learn more about the Neighbors Foundation, request assistance, or donate, please call us at 716-775-7998 or visit www.GINeighbors.org.

“Neighbors Helping Neighbors!”

Niagara Falls High School Class of 1964 is having an 80th birthday party and reunion! It will be held from 4-8 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 24, at the LaSalle Yacht Club on Buffalo Avenue with dinner, mingling and music. On Friday, there will be a tour of the old NFHS building on Portage Road and Pine Avenue from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

Organizers said, “We’ve had many reunions through the years but, since all the class members will be or are turning 80 this year, this reunion will be something very special. Dinner, dancing with a partner, wheelchair, walker or cane (all modes of assistance welcome), listening and singing along to the songs of the ’50s and ’60s, reminiscing about the good old days, favorite teachers and classes, and then having a birthday cake to signify this very special celebration will make it a fun time for all. 

“Committee members have been earnestly trying to contact classmates in surrounding areas and those out of town. If you are a NFHS ’64 grad, haven’t received an email or call from someone, or know a classmate who may like to attend, please have them contact Jennifer Vitello by email at javern46@yahoo.com or 716-799-9337.

Looking forward to a fun-filled reunion!