'Faces of Niagara' book release happening Saturday in Wheatfield
The Health Association of Niagara County Inc. has a 90-year history of caring for and supporting residents of the Niagara County community. This Saturday, from 2-4 p.m. at the Wheatfield Community Center, 2790 Church Road, HANCI will celebrate a book launch and release for its "Faces of Niagara." The publication, being released to the community for the first time on Saturday, celebrates the lives of almost 70 Niagara County residents aged 90 and older.
"Ninety years ago, a group of concerned and kind-hearted citizens banded together to form HANCI. Their goal was simple: to promote the health, wellness and independence of individuals and families in the Niagara area," said John W. Kinner, HANCI's president and CEO. "Ninety years later, our organization wanted to do something special to applaud the accomplishments and contributions of some very important people who have contributed greatly to our community."
"Faces of Niagara" is a portrait book celebrating Niagara's older generation. The project took a little over one year to complete, including a personalized photo session with professional photographer John Lagomaggiore.
HANCI officials said Lagomaggiore, who donated his services for this project, beautifully captured this extraordinary group of individuals from all walks of life who share at least two things in common: they are all 90 years plus, and have all spent a good portion of their lives in Niagara County.
"I want to sincerely thank these remarkable individuals for sharing their story with us - from their fondest childhood memories, to their loves and loses," Kinner said. "Each person we photographed was so lovely, honest and giving. We fell in love with their stories and pictures. I'm sure each reader will feel the same way."
Over 100 people are expected at the celebration, including 20 "models" from the book, along with their friends and family members, and photographer Lagomaggiore. "Faces of Niagara" books can be purchased for $20 at the event, or by calling HANCI at 716-285-8224, ext. 100.
The Health Association of Niagara County Inc. is a nonprofit community organization that provides caring, proactive, diversified programs and services that promote independence and healthy lifestyles across generations.
