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The Clarence Sun / Saturday, November 15, 2014
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Local holiday shopping on Small Business Saturday
Visit with Santa at tree lighting
By Alicia Greco THE SUN EDITOR
After the frantic madness of Black Friday subsides, the nation will be celebrating Small Business Saturday on Thanksgiving weekend. American Express founded the locally dedicated day as a nationally recognized event in 2010. The sole intention is to encourage shopping local. Clarence Center will be participating on Saturday, Nov. 29 for what Meet in the Center has subtitled as a “Holiday Merchant Stroll.” “It’s our Black Friday for small businesses, without a doubt,” said Linda Carpenter, owner of Yours Truly. “All the shops that aren’t usually open at 9 a.m. will open at 9 a.m.,” she said. “Shop small, a shop local movement, that’s nationwide for that particular day.” Participating shops are comprised by Meet in the Center establishments. Meet in the Center is a merchants association — similar to that of a chamber of commerce — of the very small businesses that are located in Clarence Center. “We work together to do the Fall Fest. That is our big event. We all know each other pretty well. We try to use any money we raised to go back into another event or we pay for the banners and signs here in the town,” Carpenter said. Those businesses will have specials for patrons on that day. Yours Truly, located at 6045 Goodrich Road, will give a free money gift
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Gather for the annual Clarence Youth Buraeu tree lighting on Sunday, Nov. 23. By Alicia Greco THE SUN EDITOR
Lights on the holiday tree will illuminate Clarence once again on Sunday, Nov. 23. The holiday tree lighting
Saturday, Nov. 15 at the cafe. According to Owner Nora THE SUN EDITOR Cleary, two ideas drove this concept to fruition. Clarence Center Coffee Not only is this an opporCompany and Cafe open mic tunity for local musicians to performers are back again to spread their talent, but also, release a second compilation it is a means to raise money CD. The Clarence Cross- for charity. roads Volume II CD release party and free wine tasting See “Coffee” will take place at 8 p.m. on on Page A-2. By Alicia Greco
certificate with a $25 purchase. The Perfect Gift and Boutique, located at 6000 Goodrich Road, will have 50 percent off all in-store Vera Bradley products, which will come with a free gift; additionally, there will be a 10 percent discount on
all apparel and shoes. Receive a free money gift card with a $25 purchase at The Hen House II in Clarence Center, as well as at Clarence Center Coffee Company and Cafe. Eat lunch at Gertie’s Restaurant, 6010 Goodrich Road, and get a free mini
scone. Register for a class on that day at Creative Essence craft studio and receive a discount.
See “Merchants” on Page A-2.
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Open mic tunes released to CD
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OBITUARIES ............................................. SECT. A PAGE 5
SPORTS............................................... SECT. B PAGES 1 – 4
PUBLIC HEARING .................................... SECT. A PAGE 2
CLASSIFIEDS ...................................... SECT. B PAGES 5 – 7
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COMMUNITY EVENTS ............................. SECT. B PAGE 8
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BROTHERS OF MERCY SEMINAR............ SECT. A PAGE 3
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The Clarence Sun / Saturday, November 15, 2014
Celebrate local this holiday season during Merchant Stroll Merchants from Page 1 “The Clarence Hollow Association used to do it at the Town Park, and then we were asked to take it over so we gladly did that,” said Dawn Kinney, executive director of the Youth Bureau. A long running tradition, this event provides holiday fun for the residents of the area. “It’s just a fun night for families to come out with the children and celebrate the holidays,” Kinney said. Festivities will take place within the club house. Each child will receive hot chocolate and cookies. A mailbox to the North Pole will be available for children to write letters to Santa. They will also be able to see the goings on of Santa’s workshop and “see what the elves are doing,” Kinney said. Volunteers from the Youth Bureau will be helping throughout the event. “They come and dress up as elves and help out with all the different activities during the night,” she added. Approximately a half hour into the event, Santa Clause will make a surprise visit. According to Kinney, the Youth Bureau is working on a possible surprise grand entrance to entertain
event go-ers. “Santa will be there throughout the whole time, so they can visit with him, sit on his lap and take pictures,” she said, as well as handing out candy canes to the children. Mrs. Clause may also be in attendance, this year. After exploring the different areas of the club house, attendees will make their way to the lawn of Main Street Town Park for the lighting of the tree. That will take place around 7 p.m. In the past, the event has seen at least 200 people. “It seems to work out really well that Sunday before Thanksgiving,” she said. “It’s a fun event for families. We really try to promote family time and family activities throughout all of our programming,” she added, emphasizing the event being affordable. Cost at the door will be $1, per child. No pre-registration is necessary. Parents and guardians are advised to bring their own camera to take photographs with Santa; a professional service will not be on hand. For more information about the Youth Bureau, call 407-2162.
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Coffee from Page 1 “The first CD raised money for the disabled American Veterans and we raised over $1,000 with that one,” said Stewart Shapiro, who has been running the open mic night for approximately nine years. The compilation CD is his brainchild. “Every dime, the cost of producing for the CD was donated, the CDs themselves, printing, studio time and all production work was donated,” he added. Each artist featured on the album were able to make an open suggestion, and from there all those participating voted on a winning charity. It was decided by vote that Buffalo City Mission will be the recipient of funds earned. That charity is dedicated toward helping the hungry and homeless. Open mic nights at the cafe are held at 7:30 p.m., each Tuesday. Sign up begins at 7. “We’ve had as many acts as 20 in one night show up to play,” Shapiro said. “One night this past summer, we had over 100 people at the open mic, between performers and attendees. “In regard to open mic, we accept all levels of performers. At least half of the crowd that shows up just shows up to listen,” he said. Content of performances at the Clarence Center Coffee Company and Cafe open mic night range in variety. “Musicians, comedians, spoken word performances, basically you sign your name on the list and we take the acts in the order they sign up,” Shapiro said.
SUBMITTED
The cover of the second volume compilation CD of WNY musicians, presented by the Clarence Center Coffee Company and Cafe. A variety of genres is reflected on the CD, as well. “There’s all different kinds of music,” Shapiro said, including Jamaican, reggae, blue grass, blues pop, rock ‘n’ roll and folk music. Recording took place at Stu Stu Studio in Amherst as well as Funhouse Studio in Silvercreek, N.Y. The latter is run by Clarence resident Armand Petri, who’s “claim to fame is as producer who produced first three albums of Goo Goo Dolls, and the first four albums of 10,000 Maniacs,” Shaprio said. “He was nice enough to volunteer his time to do the mastering work and the mixing.” Shapiro and Petri met at the State University of
New York at Fredonia, where they both work as professors. “Armand put the album together in such a way that it really flows nicely. You’ll find that every tune really goes with the other ones,” he said. All different musicians from Western New York will feature original songs on the second volume 11-track compilation CD. “These are all artists that appear at the Clarence Center Coffee house open mic,” Shapiro said. Artists will include: Gabby and Ricky, The Hangman’s Beautiful Daughter, Tim Correy, Porcelain Train, Mark and The Machine, No Illusions, Doc Stuart, Jack & Sue Spencer, Heidi Maria, P.A. Line,
as well as Green Tape. At the CD release party, the participating artists will take the stage for a live performance. “They’ll come and perform the songs that are on the CD to help promote the CD and a great way to promote themselves as musicians,” Cleary said. Beer and wine specials will be available. The wine tasting will showcase the variety of wines on the coffee house’s wine list. This event will be open to the public. Table space is limited, so it is advised that attendees arrive early. Clarence Center Coffee Company and Cafe is located at 9475 Clarence Center Road.
Planning board hosts Benderson Development public hearing By Alicia Greco THE SUN EDITOR
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CONSTRUCTION
Open mic performers showcased on CD, raise money for charity
A public hearing of the town of Clarence Planning Board took place on the evening of Nov. 12, in regard to the proposed construction by Benderson Development Company at Eastgate Plaza. The request is for approval of an access driveway from Greiner Road to the Eastgate Plaza. This property is generally located at the southeast corner of Transit and Greiner roads; existing land use is a commercial plaza located in the major arterial zone. The Town Planning Board has been recognized as lead agency of that project. James Boglioli, the proposition’s applicant and an attorney of Benderson Development, was present at the public hearing to present the project to both the board and the attendees from the public. He presented all the studies and information of the project to the board on April 9. With this presentation, he said he wanted to bring the board up to date on the happenings since that time. “The project is still to provide access to Greiner road,” he said. “Since April 9, there have been some changes.” Among those changes, the Traffic Index Statement has been updated “to
address all the concerns raised by neighbors ... after addressing all the comments, all the conclusions remain the same. And those conclusions are there will be no additional traffic east of the access on Greiner Road. “It will improve the Maple/Greiner/Transit intersection in at least two directions,” he said, clarifying those directions will be both from the east and south. “It will improve pedestrian facilities on Greiner Road,” he said, noting the addition of a sidewalk. The addition of signage would be implemented to make drivers more aware of the new construction. “It will improve the convenience and safety of the shopping center and in the area of Greiner Road, especially because we’re adding a center turn lane from Greenhurst, Vista and the shopping center,” he said. Currently, the road operates as two lanes with a wide shoulder, which he said results in an unsafe condition as drivers will use that shoulder to make turns. He mentioned that this new construction will “will reduce traffic on Transit Road;” traffic from east that will enter the plaza and traffic from the plaza to Greiner Road will no longer be exiting onto Transit Road. The second note the Benderson attorney ex-
plained is the addition of a sidewalk between Greenhurst and Vista; all sidewalks will be five feet. Boglioli said that the company has agreed to conduct a post-development study; proposed set time duration will be three years. That study will be conducted after installation of the driveway and will be provided to the town of Clarence and the Erie County Department of Public Works, according to Boglioli. Additionally, Benderson Development will post a $10,000 bond to cover the cost of the study. Reviewed items assessed in that study will include: review available stacking distance from Transit Road southbound left turn lane, revisit the turning movements of the Greiner/ Greenhurst driveway intersection to confirm traffic distribution percentages, as well as a signal warning and accident analysis. “If mitigation is identified in those studies, we have agreed to undertake that mitigation ... and that would be on us,” Boglioli said. The need for this driveway, he said, has a “long history, since 1995,” as he referenced a New York State Department of Transportation letter from that year. He presented visual slides of proposed construction and signage to the planning board as well
as those residents in attendance. Boglioli continued on, saying that this plan will be “consistent with the manager goals of Masterplan 2015 and the Adopted Land Use Access Management Plan.” In conclusion, Boglioli explained that “this is supported by all the prior approvals and all the studies” undertaken. He stated that there will be no additional traffic east of access on Greiner Road and that implementation will have “significant improvement on the Maple/ Greiner/Transit intersection, by the reduction of traffic at that intersection, based on this driveway. “This does significantly improve the pedestrian facilities on Greiner Road, above what they are now,” he said, allowing sidewalks for pedestrians rather than the danger of the current shoulder. After his presentation, the public was invited to speak for a maximum time of three minutes in regard to the Benderson Development Company proposition. A majority of those that spoke to the Clarence Town Planning Board opposed the proposed development. To voice opinions on this topic, an inbox is available via the Clarence Planning and Zoning Board website, at www2.erie.gov/clarence/ index.php?q=planningamp-zoning-department.
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The Clarence Sun / Saturday, November 15, 2014
Brothers of Mercy to host seminar on shoulder pain
Speaker hosted at Brookfield
The Clarence Chapter of New York State Women Inc. will host a presentation and discussion on Tuesday, Nov. 18 at the Brookfield Country Club. Presentation and discussion will be on The Repicci II Unicondylar Program and treatment of knee problems, including the partial and full knee replacement. Cindy Romanowski MD will be the guest speaker. She is board certified in physical medicine and rehabilitation and is also part of the Joint Reconstruction Orthopedics Group. Romanowski presents a class to all patients in the practice that are scheduled or considering knee replacements, as well as fulfilling a role in encouraging patients through their recovery after surgery. There is a cost for both members and non-members. Networking will begin at 6 p.m. followed by the presentation at 6:30 and dinner at 7:15. Reservations can be made by contacting Jean Yanik at 7591072 or emailing thomasthecat@msn.com. Brookfield Country Club is located at 5120 Shimerville Road in Clarence.
Learn about sugar at Wellness Center
Dana Inzeo, a health coach, will present a class at the Clarence Hollow Wellness Center from 6:30-7:30 p.m. on Wednesday, Nov. 19 to teach a class titled “Overcome Your Sugar Blues.” That class will focus on the various affects sugar has on the body and how sugar affects cholesterol. Attendees will also learn about what to look for and avoid when reading labels on food items. The Clarence Hollow Wellness Center is located at 10946 Main St. in Clarence. CPOWNY
Brothers of Mercy Nursing and Rehabilitation Center will host a seminar on shoulder pain on Monday, Nov. 17. By Alicia Greco THE SUN EDITOR
With a stated mission to educate and provide references for services, Brothers of Mercy Nursing and Rehabilitation Center hosts health driven seminars. “What we try to do is partner with local orthopedics or surgeons so that we can share with our residents and the public what options they may have for services,” said Denise Seiro, director of marketing for Brothers of Mercy. “We try to do them every couple of months,” she added. Topics previously discussed have included knee replacement, hip replacement, and nonsurgical options for both. Seminars have also been available to provide assistance for caregivers. Each seminar is held with the intention “to sup-
port the community and give them some resources,” she added. People dealing with those that have chronic illnesses learned how to also help care for themselves and not get burned out doing it. Brothers of Mercy will host a seminar focusing on shoulder pain at 4 p.m. on Monday, Nov. 17. Paul D. Paterson MD, a board-certified orthopedic surgeon for Excelsior Orthopaedics, will be present to discuss various topics that regard shoulder pain. His surgical speciality is in total shoulder arthroplasty (reverse and anatomic), proximal humeral and fracture repair. According to Seiro, Paterson will expand on different pain based on movement, what the pain feels like, as well as discussing options, whether it be surgical or non-surgical. This seminar service will
Energy tips for colder weather (NAPSI)—Here’s news that may warm your heartand your home. There’s now a new resource from the Eldercare Locator to help keep older adults safe and warm during the cold weather months. It’s a brochure called “Winter Warmth and Safety: Home Energy Tips for Older Adults,” and it provides tips about preparing a home for winter weather and saving money on energy expenses. Hints To Help You The brochure suggests you: • Make sure your home is energy efficient by installing a programmable thermostat and sealing and insulating ducts. • Learn about energy assistance programs such as the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Pro-
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gram (LIHEAP) and utility no-cutoff programs. • Avoid the risk of home fires by not using your stove or oven to heat your home. • Make sure carbon monoxide detectors are installed and working properly. • Learn about Weatherization Assistance Programs (WAP). • Be sure to schedule a check-up of your heating equipment. Dirt and neglect are the No. 1 cause of heating system failure. • Insulate water pipes to avoid freezing and bursting. Be sure to drain and turn off outside waterspouts. • Identify alternative living arrangements should extreme weather conditions occur. Have a plan ready.
25,200 Metro readers plan to purchase a home in the next 2 readers regularly 57,148 CPOWNY years read newspaper employment ads. Media Audit Aug.-Sept. 2013
be open to the public. The goal, according to Seiro, is “community awareness, obviously, but to show this is the kind of thing you can have,” in regard to types of services. Brothers of Mercy can also provide rehabilitation after surgery. “It takes one big team to work through peoples issues with shoulder pain,”
she said. The seminar will be free. Those interested are recommended to RSVP by calling 759-7611, but it is not necessary. For more information, call 759-6985 or by visit www.brothersofmercy.org. Brothers of Mercy is located at 10570 Bergtold Road in Clarence.
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Independent Health is a Medicare Advantage organization with a Medicare contract offering HMO, HMO-SNP, HMO-POS and PPO plans. Enrollment in Independent Health depends on contract renewal. *A sales person will be present with information and applications. For accommodations of persons with special needs at sales meetings, please call (716) 635-4900 or 1-800-958-4405 (TTY users call 1-888-357-9167). **Benefits vary by plan. The benefit information provided is a brief summary, not a complete description of benefits. For more information, contact the plan. Limitations, copayments and restrictions may apply. Benefits, formulary, pharmacy network, provider network, premium and/or copayments/coinsurances may change on January 1 of each year. You must continue to pay your Medicare Part B premium. Y0042_C5255 Accepted 10302014 ©2014 Independent Health Association, Inc.
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The Clarence Sun / Saturday, November 15, 2014
Opinions & Editorial W W W. C P O W N Y . C O M
Letter to the editor: Kudos to neighbors Editor: We, the homeowners between Main Street and Sheridan Drive and Harris Hill and Gentwood Drive, would like to thank the canvassers who collected 311 signatures. We are the frequent users of the Westwood Drive egress to Main Street. The 311 signatures are opposed to the Westwood Drive and Main Street expansion of Kenyons Gas Station to a drive-thru Tim Hortons, added convenience store and gas pumps. Credit is due to the following for their door-todoor explanation of the issues and soliciting signatures: Ann Banas, Manny and Kathy Colombo, Mary Ann Endres, Bill Farrell, Jim Morabito, Doug and Marge Pafk, Ann Snowdy, Gary Starck, Dawn Vanfossen, Bruce Torrey and Kristina Young. Special mention to Tom Noonan for organizing, collecting signatures, and completing an in-depth traffic study of the Tim Hortons at Thompson and Main streets; also to Mike Mesi for his exceptional diligence and dedication to the follow-up completions.
A partial list of many concerns included: A) Our only egress to Main Street is from Westwood Drive, Arondale Drive close to Harris Hill Road and Ericson Drive to Harris Hill. B) Our lived experience is that the increased queuing time at Westwood to get on to Main Street would be a chronic inconvenience and possibly hazardous. C) Our constituents are currently satisfied that there are four coffee and donut shops on Main Street within 2.4 miles of the proposed Tim Horton’s. We appreciate the town board’s willingness to listen to our 311 united voices and concerns in formulating their decision. This neighborhood, probably like other in Clarence ,is largely altruistic, neighborly and generous. A few residents favored another convenient coffee spot, but voted for less traffic stress. These involved Clarence residents gave their time to help preserve our quality of life and the common good. A job well done. Frank and Mary Ann Endres Clarence
Youth Bureau to host educational event The Clarence Youth Board and Bureau will host a presentation about the dangers of drug abuse, addition and suicide at 7 p.m. on Monday, Nov. 17 at the Clarence Town Hall. The presentation will be for parents, grandparents, educators and other members of the community on the prevalence of prescription painkiller abuse and the “disturbing” rise in heroin use. The presentation is a continuation of the Youth Board’s community awareness initiative, which over the past six years has focused on drugs, alcohol and other issues pertinent to youth. The focus on prescription painkiller abuse has to do with what experts say is a growing trend among young people. It is crucial that everyone be made aware of the signs and dangers associated with this type of abuse. Unfortunately, due to a lack of knowledge, the signs and symptoms of addiction often go unrecognized. Even under a doctor’s orders, these powerful drugs need to be monitored constantly.
Since 2009 the town of Clarence Youth Board and Bureau has committed to educate the public with their informational speaker series focusing on issues affecting teens, families and communities. Topics presented have regarded underage drinking, depression, bullying, suicide, the internet and social media, teenage relationships, addiction-ways to stop it before it starts and the legalities and consequences of drug use. Guest speakers at this event will include: Mr. and Mrs. Avi Isreal will present their personal experience with prescription drug addiction; Honorable Judge Michael Powers will give an update on the Clarence Town Drug Court and Youth Court; Agent Michelle Spahn of the Drug Enforcement Administration will discuss the increase in heroin use in the suburbs, plus personal accounts from a parent and recovering teen addict. The Clarence Town Hall is located at 1 Town Place in Clarence.
Supervisor wraps up column series on Masterplan 2025 This is a guest column by Clarence Town Supervisor David Hartzell Jr. This is the fourth and final article in a series that has detailed the proposed changes to Masterplan 2025. Over the next twelve months members of the Clarence Town Board, Planning Board, Zoning Department and a professional planning and design firm will be gathering at the town hall to work on Masterplan 2025, which will replace the Masterplan 2015, which is the guiding document that governs all building and zoning changes in the Town of Clarence. In 2001, the town of Clarence formally adopted Masterplan 2015 — this represented the first time that the community officially adopted a comprehensive plan. It represents the goals of the community and identified objectives towards achieving these established goals. With the official adoption, new land use codes have been developed that are consistent with the adopted plan. One means of ensuring that the plan remains current is to hold an annual public hearing on Masterplan 2015 and
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districts within the town of Clarence. Continued cooperation and sharing of information and resources will become even more critical as the burden on property taxpayers increases. Utilization of Adequate Educational Facilities Local Law is a provision that should be used by the town and school districts to cooperatively work for the sustainability of the community. Enforcing and continuing a balanced growth plan will be critical in maintaining quality school districts. Further collaboration on the utilization of the State Environmental Quality Review Act (SEQRA) and the Adequate Educational Facilities Local Law should enhance the lines of communication for project review. – Provide consistent enforcement of land use regulations. – Provide consistent enforcement of land use regulations. Local legislation, including but not limited to signs, zoning, subdivision, landscape and tree conservation, floodplain development, storm water management, satellite towers, clearing filling and
grading, and Town Environmental Quality Review (TEQR), all work to ensure current regulations that are in keeping with changes to the economy and public desires/demands. In addition, the public notification policies of the Town have been upgraded to ensure that adequate notification is the norm. This includes notification within 500 of all projects up for review. Local legislation should be evaluated regularly for the health, safety and welfare of Town residents. I hope that you will come to one of the many public forums that will be held at Town Hall over the next six months. Your input is greatly appreciated! My thanks to the staff of the Zoning Department-especially Jim Callahan, Jonathan Bleuer and Planning Board Chairman Robert Sackett for their help with this article. Should you have any questions or positive comments, please feel free to call my office at 741-8930, email dhartzell@clarence. ny.us or stop by the Supervisors office in Clarence Town Hall. My door is always open!
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the town has now held 12 such annual hearings and amended the Masterplan 2015, accordingly. As the new year is fast approaching, the Planning Board, at the direction of the Clarence Town Board, has begun the process toward developing Masterplan 2025. As an initial step in the process towards developing Masterplan 2025, the Planning Board is reviewing the goals of the community and identifying which goals remain and whether new goals need to be developed. Public input is essential to finalize the future goals of the community. Formal adoption of the Masterplan 2025 is important to the community to ensure that all land use decisions are consistent with overall community goals, providing a stable and sustainable town. With that in mind, let’s take a look at the last two sections from an amended version of the current draft of Masterplan 2025 and see what goals your elected officials and planners have in mind for the future of Clarence. Maintain a collaborative relationship with all school
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To apply for an independent carrier position, you must be at least 11 years of age. Call 668-5223, extension 8161 for details.
A-5
The Clarence Sun / Saturday, November 15, 2014
Rediscover the art of shopping at The Perfect Gift
Obituaries W W W. C P O W N Y . C O M
nieces and nephews. Services will be held Saturday, Nov. 15th at 2:30 p.m. at the Clarence Presbyterian Church, 9675 Main Street. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to East Amherst Fire Department, 9100 Transit Rd., East Amherst, NY 14051. Arrangements by Amigone Funeral Home Inc. Online condolences may be made at www.AMIGONE. com.
By Kathryn Luppi THE SUN CONTRIBUTOR
Deborah Tangelder and her husband Nick were residents of Clarence for just three weeks when their first child, Brooke, was born. Tangelder said their daughter’s arrival acted as a catalyst of change in their lives which lead to the decision to establish The Perfect Gift, in 2003. At that time, she said she wanted to start something creative that would serve the community, but she did not intend to jump into a business and leave her sales position at Xerox Corporation. However, she said destiny intervened when a friend told her and her husband about a rental sign outside of the Eshelman Building at 6000 Goodrich Road in Clarence Center. They walked through its open doors. Although it was not the same building where the sign had been seen and a rental was not being advertised. The landlord happened to be on the premises, that day. “Two hours later, we had committed to renting the 2,000 sq. ft. space,” Tangelder said. Different retail business ideas were considered, including an antique or crafts shop, but she said she realized that these businesses would not be the best fit for her. “I just knew that I liked to decorate and put themes and stories together,” she said. When she decided to find a name for her company she discovered its raison d’être. “My mom had given me a beautiful devotional for moms. She said to read it every day and it would keep me energized and encouraged.” A daily devotion entitled, “The Perfect Gift,” with the Bible verse, “Every good and perfect gift is from above,” reminded her of the gifts of her child and faith, which inspired her to open the gift store. Today, the scripture is framed and hangs in the shop. In 2006, right before the arrival of Tangelder’s second child, Amanda, a boutique for apparel, shoes, jewelry and accessories was added to The Perfect Gift. The boutique is known for a variety of products. More than 40 different artisans offering Buffalo gifts, jewelry and glassware that are ever changing, can be found in the handmade section of the gift store. Handmade pieces have that unique touch that makes them a perfect gift for someone, Tangelder noted. Vera Bradley and Brighton jewelry are popular departments at the store. “We do great with our handbags, accessory lines, and body products,” Tangelder said. “We do a lot of home décor here and seasonal gifts. People love our inspirational greeting cards.” Tangelder, who completed her bachelor of science in business administration at the State University of New York at Buffalo, said she loves to research different retail markets and look for feedback from customers about the products they want. The store offers complimentary signature gift packaging. Tangelder said shopping at the store while feeling fabric, smelling a candle, trying products and getting them wrapped is a more satisfying experience than sitting in a chair and shopping online. “What I’m trying to do is make shopping enjoyable
Matilda Kieser
Jack Leiser
Jack F. Leiser, of Matilda D. (nee Williamsville, died Incao) "Little GrandNovember 6. ma" Kieser, 100, of Williamsville, died Jack was husband of the late Barbara (nee Burdick) November 7.
KATHRYN LUPPI
The Perfect Gift family posed for a photograph outside of the establishments doors. From left: Nick Tangelder, Amanda Tangelder, Brooke Tangelder and Deborah Tangelder. again. I have people tell me, day after day, there’s something different about your store. There’s a peacefulness there,” she added. The Perfect Gift has managed through and weathered the storms of being a small business. “We’ve had our ups and downs with the economy and this and that, and I can’t say that it’s always been an easy road,” she said. “I had some physical ailments and a back surgery a few years ago. There was so much at stake. I actually wear a necklace that says, ‘Never Give Up.’ That’s my motto. I put it on my neck each morning and remember the fact that it wasn’t necessarily meant to be easy; it was meant to be a process of growth, and that’s what this has always been.” With a passion for supporting charitable causes, she has co-sponsored about five hundred organizations and causes including local families, nonprofit organizations, churches and schools. “I believe our store is not only meant to help our community but destined to reach out farther and across the globe,” she said. Since 2012, her company has donated 100 percent of the profits from the business to people in need. “I took a leap of faith and my sweet, beautiful family supported me, and my staff was behind me. Honestly, this staff is like my family. I really do not ever want to take that for granted,” Tangelder said. “I know that can be one of the biggest challenges of owning a small business.” In addition to the “incredible” mental and moral support she receives from her husband, she said her parents, sister and extended family help at the store. Her 8-year-old and 11-year-old daughters assist with their own “departments” at the shop. The store, which features original wood floors and woodwork, high ceilings, and push ladders, is housed in the three-story Eshelman Building, now owned by the Tangelders.
Matilda was wife of the late Clarence Kieser and Gordon Young; mother of Audrey (late Jerrold) Jacobs and Shirley (late Lawrence) Esch; grandmother of Michael Esch, Nancy (David) Zajdel, Linda (late Michael Rich) Jacobs, Colleen (Donald) Silverthorn and Jeffrey (Laura) Jacobs; great-grandmother of 11, great-great-grandmother of 14 and great-great-greatgrandmother of one; sister of the late Peter Incao, Harriet (John) Ponholzer and Evelyn (George "Whitey") Gearin; also survived by nieces and nephews. Visitation was held Nov. 14 at the Delaware Chapel of the Amigone Funeral Home Inc. Prayers will also be offered on Saturday, Nov. 15 at 9:15 a.m. followed by a Mass of Christian burial celebrated from Saint Stanislaus Church at 10 a.m. Online condolences may be made at www.AMIGONE. com.
Billie Jean Gates Billie Jean (nee McKeone) Gates, 83, of East Amherst, died October 31.
KATHRYN LUPPI
The Perfect Gift and Boutique in Clarence is stocked up for the holiday season. That building is listed on the National Historic Registry; tours are available from Doors Open Niagara and other groups. The brick and cast iron building was built during the 1870s by the Eshelman family, who were prominent farmers, and once served as a general store and town meeting place. Tangelder contacted local historians and read books to
learn more about the building’s colorful history. She said the general store, which was given the nickname, the Square Deal Store in the 1900s, set up a credit card system for customers and was one of the first locations for Alexander Graham Bell phones, in the area.
See “Gift” on Page 6.
Billie was wife of the late Harold Gates; mother of Diane (Victor) Tice PhD, Debra Vallett and Bradley Gates; grandmother of David Vallett PhD, Amanda (Dimitri) Scott and Tabatha Tice; sister of the late John (Beverly) McKeone; also survived by
Leiser; father of Wendy L. (Noel) Eberz of Hawaii and Robert J. (Dawn) Leiser of Lockport; grandfather of Kellie N. (Nicholas) Ickowski, Chavella M. Leiser, Jaqlyn L. Leiser and Taylr R. Leiser; great-grandfather of Gavin Ickowski; brother of the late Robert and Roy Leiser; also survived by a sister-in-law Sara P. Leiser (Edward Ziegenfuss) of Williamsville and several nieces and nephews. Jack was the former General Motors Executive at Chevy West Delavan Plant. Visitation will be held Sunday, Nov. 16 from 1-1:30 p.m. at the Amherst Chapel of the Amigone Funeral Home Inc., where a memorial service will follow at 1:30 p.m. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the American Heart Association. Online condolences may be made at www.AMIGONE. com.
Submission guidelines Many businesses, civic groups and places of worship keep the public informed of their activities by submitting press releases to Community Papers of WNY. If your group has some news to share, written releases can be submitted by e-mail to mondesko@cpowny.com or lkirchmyer@cpowny. com. Or by postal mail to the Editorial Department, Community Papers of WNY., 75 Boxwood Lane, Cheektowaga, NY 14227. Deadline for submitting releases is 5 p.m. on the Tuesday preceding each Sunday’s issue. Submitting a press release does not guarantee publication.
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A-6
The Clarence Sun / Saturday, November 15, 2014
Satisfy all of your dress-up needs at Betsy Ross Costumes shop in Clarence
KATHRYN LUPPI
Find costumes for any occasion, not just Halloween, at Betsy Ross Costumes in Clarence. Pictured is Elizabeth Visciano, owner of the shop, who also goes by the name Betsy Ross.
By Kathryn Luppi THE SUN CONTRIBUTOR
Halloween is over but Betsy Ross Costumes, located across from the Clarence High School, is still busy. The shop will be selling and renting costumes and accessories for the annual World’s Largest Disco event this month and then Christmas stock will be brought out in December. The store has collected a wide assortment of costumes and accessories for any major holiday, costume wedding, community theater group, Renaissance faire, private and corporate party or children’s party. Owner Elizabeth Visciano, also known as Betsy
Ross, started the business in 1983 with her mother, Judy. They made all of their own costumes until the store joined the National Costumers Association and started to buy costumes from wholesale sources. With extensive experience making costumes, they understand costume construction, measurements and sizing. Elizabeth Visciano also acts in community theater and works in a Renaissance faire during the summer. The World’s Largest Disco event is an annual party that draws thousands of people for a night of dancing and mingling while raising funds for charity. “We get a lot of repeat customers that go year after year,” Visciano said. “It’s a
fun time. It was a great era. The music was happy and uplifting. People just enjoy it whether they really like disco music or not.” The costume store’s 1970s vintage clothes and accessories could fill the fantasy of any disco queen or John Travolta fan with its collection of disco garb including shirts, pants, suits, jumpsuits, bell bottoms and dresses in loud colors made with different materials including spandex, polyester, sequins, metallic, and glitter. If a customer already has a leisure suit or a Donna Summer-esque dress that he or she plans to dance the hustle in, the store has an enormous amount of accessories to complete their 1970s look. These include
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disco mirror ball earrings, voluminous wigs, retro sunglasses, costume jewelry and funky platform shoes. Often people are looking for guidance in order to narrow down their options when they are looking for costumes at the store, according to Visciano. The Betsey Ross Costumes staff will then jump in to give customers a little tour of the merchandise. “There’s a huge range in cost,” she said. “Package costumes can go as low as $10 and as high as $150 to $200, depending on the item.” Visciano explained that clothing styles can repeat themselves, allowing for a DIY environment. For example, 1940s garments with the big shoul-
der pads that are similar to styles in the 1980s. A packaged soap star costume could be used for the Effie Trinket character in the Hunger Games. Roman and Greek costumes can be used in Biblical plays. There are a variety of pirate shirts that can be interchanged with Renaissance or steampunk costumes. Moustaches are very popular. “It’s a simple inexpensive accessory that changes your whole look and an easy way to make you appear like someone from the past or a character on TV,” Visciano said. She added that it has become common for elementary school students to portray characters in American history such as a pilgrim, George Washington, Ame-
lia Earhart, Christopher Columbus, Paul Revere and Mark Twain. The history character kits and assorted moustaches and beards can be ideal for that purpose. Find extensive descriptions about the costumes on the Betsy Ross Costumes website: www.betsyrosscostumes.com. “I put fabric content, and give measurements so that customers can at least get a rough idea on size as they’re looking at the picture,” Visciano said. A one size fits most or all can be inaccurate; she said she encourages people to visit the store, try things on and see the quality of each costume. Patrons will also have the opportunity to ask staff for tips on how sizes run, what styles might fit certain body types best, or what costumes have more stretch in them. Plus sizes are available at the store, as well. “When you’re ordering online and you’re from out of town, it’s always a risk that it’s not going to fit,” she said. The mannequins displaying costumes in the store will change in December. “We have a new Olaf costume,” Visciano said. “He’s the snowman from Frozen. He’s not only a Disney© character but also a snowman, which fits in with wintertime and Christmas.” Olaf will join the lineup with Santa Clause and Mrs. Santa Clause, reindeer, elves, gingerbread men and the Grinch. Visit “Betsey Ross Costumes of Greater Buffalo, NY” on Facebook to find more photos of costume ideas and updates about activities. Betsey Ross Costumes is located at 9670 Main St. in Clarence and can be reached at 759-8522.
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It’s a family affair at The Perfect Gift Boutique Gift from Page 5 The Eshelmans were “fair, good to customers and entrepreneurial in their thinking,” Tangelder said. In running The Perfect Gift, she explained that she also “strives to serve the community and others by running her business in such a way that treats others honorably, with kindness, and generosity.” She said that there is something fresh to see every time a customer visits,
but the store especially shines during the holiday season. A Countdown to Christmas event will start Monday, Dec. 1, featuring a new item every day on Facebook that will offer promotional pricing for that day. The store will hold a holiday open house on Monday, Dec. 6, and will offer free pictures with Santa from 11 a.m.-2 p.m. A Black Friday sale will
begin at 9 a.m. on Friday, Nov. 28. Small Business Saturday, a nationwide event, will follow on Saturday, Nov. 29; that event will be comprised by numerous merchants of Clarence Center. Customers are encouraged to bring a new item to be donated to the women and children of Cornerstone Mission. For more information, call 741-0722 or visit www. theperfectgiftbuffalo.com.
Clarence SUN looking for freelance writer The Clarence SUN is looking for a freelance writer to cover events each week throughout the Clarence area. The person should have good communication and writing skills and must be a self-starter, willing to find
story leads. The person also must have a knowledge of the Associate Press style and be able to hit deadline on a weekly basis. The person must be able to write three to four stories a week.
Send your cover letter, resume and two writing samples to Managing Editor Matthew Ondesko at mondesko@cpowny.com. Community Papers of Western New York is an equal opportunity employer. No phone calls, please.
A-7
The Clarence Sun / Saturday, November 15, 2014
Clarence Women Club crafts blankets for Brothers of Mercy
Meet the Women Club The Clarence Women Club will gather at Salvatore’s for a holiday dinner on Monday, Dec. 1. Members will be collecting gifts for the Haven House and Clarence Food Pantry. The event will start at 5:30 p.m. For further details, call 310-7674. For more information about the Haven House, visit www.cfsbny.org/programs/haven-house, or for more information about the food pantry, visit www. clarpresby.com/servingyour-needs/clarence-community-food-pantry.
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The Clarence Women Club made lap blankets for the Brother’s of Mercy on Nov. 3 at the Clarence Town Park Club House. The ladies made 17 blankets, that night. From left: Sue Kinnin, Susan Stellrecht and Judy Dickinson.
Clarence Town Park Clubhouse will transform into North Pole Tree from Page 1 Other amenities will be available during the festivities, including punch beverages, cookies, an on-site food truck and more. The Holiday Merchant Stroll is “just a little bit of atmosphere that we’re starting Christmas time,” she said. “[This event is] essentially to define us as a little shopping, dining, boutique zone.” As a defined timestamp
of the oncoming holiday, she added that “by then, everybody just wants to shop, get it done. Let’s go!” Carpenter spoke highly about American Express and the effort to emphasize small business shopping. “For them to even bother (with promotion) is considerable as a small business. It’s nice that somebody as large as American Express
recognizes that.” Not only will the Small Business Saturday Merchant Holiday Stroll encourage local economic growth, but it is a chance for Clarence as a community to shine. “You couldn’t get any more Norman Rockwell small business than Clarence Center,” Carpenter said with a laugh.
Buffalo Niagara Heritage Village plans festive holiday events Several exciting and family-oriented holiday events are on the calendar for December at Buffalo Niagara Heritage Village, located at 3755 Tonawanda Creek Rd. in Amherst. A Tree Lighting Ceremony from 7 to 9 p.m. will kick things off on Friday, Dec. 5. This event is free and open only to members of Buffalo Niagara Heritage Village. For more information on becoming a member, visit www. bnhv.org/membership. BNHV’s annual Home for the Holidays weekend takes place from noon to 5 p.m. Saturday and Sunday, Dec. 6 and 7. A special feature of Home for the Holidays are tours that give visitors a glimpse into a 19th century Christmas. Visitors will be guided through the village to different stops along the grounds to admire the decorations and interact with the villagers as they go about their Christmas festivities. Each tour is approximately
an hour long. Tours start at noon and run every half hour until 3:30 p.m. It is recommended that you call ahead to make your reservation and to purchase tickets. Tour tickets are $15 for museum members and $20 for non-members. Another part of BNHV’s Home for the Holidays weekend is the annual Christkindlmarkt that will take place between noon and 5 p.m. Dec. 6 and 7 at BNHV’s Steffan Building. This event is free. Come check out a number of local craft, food and artisan vendors selling their wares; and don’t forget to check out the museum’s very own gift shop while visiting. Buffalo Niagara Heritage Village also invites the public to join them for their 41st annual Holiday Celebration on Saturday, Dec. 6. Festivities begin at 6 p.m. with a cocktail reception and open bar followed by dinner at 7 p.m. The cost is $75 per person and reservations are required by Nov. 26. Call 689-1440 today
to reserve your seats. Breakfast with Santa takes place on Sunday, Dec. 7. Be sure to bring your camera. Tickets are $5 for members and $7 for non-members, and reservations are recommended. Breakfast will be served at 10 a.m., 11 a.m. and noon. Call 689-1440 for reservations. Additionally, the popular Museum After Hours event is held until 8 p.m. every Thursday. This event is free to Buffalo Niagara Heritage Village members and just $6 for adults, $4 and seniors and military, and $2 for children 12 and under. Museum After Hours events in December will be held on Dec. 4, 11 and 18. For more information on any of these events, call 6891440 or visit www.bnhv.org. You can also follow Buffalo Niagara Heritage Village on Facebook at www.facebook. com/BNHVillage or Twitter at twitter.com/BNHVillage for frequent updates.
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Crossword Puzzle W W W. C P O W N Y . C O M
A-8
The Clarence Sun / Saturday, November 15, 2014
USPS honors one of its own in beautiful Veterans Day ceremony
John Light, the man of honor, and his wife Mary. By Rebecca Gunning LOCKPORT STAR EDITOR
Every year for the last seven years, the United States Postal Service honors one of its own military veterans for his or her courageousness and dedication, both in the service and to the post office. This year, with the sun shining on an uncharacteristically warm November morning at 1200 William St. in Buffalo, John Light, a veteran of the Vietnam War, was honored with the Frank E. Cius Award in front of a crowd of about 50 postal employees and veterans. Light, who has worked as a letter carrier for the post office for the last 34 years, was drafted to serve in Vietnam at the young age of 19. After serving three years, he was honorably discharged when a booby trap went off, injuring both his legs. “It was tough, especially being away from home for
the first time,” Light said. “It made you grow up real quick.” An emotional Timothy McKibbin, Light’s boss, presented the award to him, giving a moving speech. “Only by the grace of God, and the dedicated surgeons and nurses who helped him through his wounds was he able to survive and return home in one piece,” said a tearful McKibbin, who also nominated Light for the award. “I was scared. The war was already going on so you knew where you were going,” added Light, who was awarded a Purple Heart and Combat Award among others for his service. “It was just a matter of making it back hopefully.” After the nomination from McKibbin, the post office’s Veterans Committee, composed of Marty Siminski, William C. Maygar, Kenneth V. Brown Jr., Elena Franjoine, David M. Lisowski and Patrick Gunning, unani-
mously chose Light. “It was a no-brainer. Not only with the job he did over in Vietnam, but also the way he goes about his job here at the post office,” Gunning said. “He does his job the right way, and is an extremely hard worker.” Also in attendance was Cius, whom the award was named for. Cius, also a veteran of the Vietnam War, was part of the crew chief in a helicopter that was shot down. He was captured and spent six years in a POW camp. Seven years after receiving the inaugural award, he is still in awe that the award is in his honor. “I was honored. I just couldn’t believe that the post office was going to create an award,” said Cius, who worked at the post office for 22 years. “I didn’t realize the full extent of it until after I got the award. My name was going to be handed off to someone else to receive this award.”
Cius believes this year’s ceremony was the best so far, and thinks it’s important for people to be understand what’s going on in the world as well as recognize the job former and current military personnel are doing. “I think we should have more recognition for the troops. I think it’s good to know what’s going on,” he said. “If you don’t want to serve, you should be aware of what’s going on around you.”
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Buffalo resident receives first annual Bounce Back Award The Chris Klug Foundation (CKF) is pleased to announce the winners of the first annual Bounce Back Award, presented by Astellas. The award recognizes two transplant recipients who exhibit a great quality of life. Nominations for the award were open Sept. 16 to Oct. 16. Over 75 nominations came in from 27 states across the country, and CKF staff and board members selected two winners. Winner Barbara Breckenridge, of Buffalo, is a 15-year kidney transplant recipient. Since being given a second chance at life, Breckenridge has dedicated her life to advocating for organ and tissue donation. According to Sarah Diina, director of marketing and communications at the Upstate New York Transplant Center, “Barbara provides peer counseling for dialysis patients, transplant patients and their families, and newly diagnosed kidney disease individuals. Barbara facilitates a kidney support group at Erie County Medical Center, and had done many radio and television appearances promoting the Donate Life cause.” Breckenridge has also won over 31 medals at the Transplant Games, and has traveled to Australia, Sweden and South Africa to compete. Breckenridge’s tireless advocacy embodies the spirit of the Bounce Back Award. Winner David Miller, of Semmes, Ala., received a liver from the family of a 13-year-old boy who lost his life after a tragic fall. Their selfless decision to donate their son’s organs gave Miller a second chance at life. Since his transplant, Miller has not let any obstacle slow him down. He educates high school students to teach their peers about organ and tissue donation and to register them as donors. Through his efforts, his group registered 863 organ donors. Miller has also won at the World Transplant Games and participates in 5K runs. Miller leads by example and is truly deserving of the Bounce Back
Award. The winners and one guest each will travel to Aspen, Colo. for the Chris Klug Foundation’s ninth annual Aspen Summit for Life weekend Dec. 5-6. CKF will host the winners and provide flights, lodging and tickets to all Summit for Life weekend events. The Bounce Back Award will be presented on Dec. 6 on top of Aspen Mountain in front of 400 racers and CKF supporters. “We are thrilled by the response to the first annual Bounce Back Award, presented by Astellas,” said Beth Slater, executive director, CKF. “We read so many amazing stories of what is possible after a lifesaving transplant. Picking just two winners was an incredibly difficult task, but we’re so proud of Barbara and David and the way they live their lives.” Chris Klug, founder and chairman of CKF, looks forward to welcoming the Bounce Back Award winners to Aspen. “I couldn’t be more excited to welcome Barbara and David to my hometown of Aspen to celebrate life together and recognize their volunteerism to help others in the transplant community today. All over the country our Donor Dudes volunteers support our work and help us get the word out about donation. Both Barbara and David are officially Donor Dudes. We can’t wait to recognize both winners here in Aspen at the ninth annual Aspen Summit for Life.” Becoming a registered organ and tissue donor is a way to have a lasting legacy, and it’s as simple as going to www.chrisklugfoundation.org to sign up. For more information on this program or on the Chris Klug Foundation, contact Beth Slater at 970-6187120. READ & SUBMIT
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AAA seeks scholarship applicants AAA Members Insurance Agency is seeking applications from local high school seniors for AAA’s seventh annual insurance scholarship for Western and Central New York. The deadline for consideration is Dec. 31 and applications are available for download by visiting www.AAA.com/Insurance. AAA’s 2015 Insurance Scholarship for Western and Central New York will be awarded to six graduating high school seniors that demonstrate excellence in academics and community involvement and plan to attend a college, university or accredited technical school in New York State. Three $1,000 first place scholarships and three $500 second place scholarships will be awarded throughout AAA Western and Central New York’s territory, including the areas of greater Buffalo, Rochester and Syracuse. For more information on the AAA scholarship program or to obtain an application, visit www.AAA. com/Insurance.