Chautauqua County Community Source 1/27/23

GOVERNOR HOCHUL ANNOUNCES DUNKIRK AS THE $10 MILLION WESTERN NEW YORK WINNER OF SIXTHROUND DOWNTOWN REVITALIZATION INITIATIVE

State

Governor Kathy Hochul today announced that the City of Dunkirk will receive $10 million in funding as the Western New York winner of the sixth round of the Downtown Revitalization Initiative. For DRI Round 6, each of the state's 10 economic development regions are being awarded $10 million, to make for a total state commitment of $100 million in funding and investments to help communities boost their economies by transforming downtowns into vibrant neighborhoods.

"We are writing a new chapter of opportunity and prosperity for Western New York - prioritizing investments that will make the region a better place to live and visit," Governor Hochul said. "This funding will transform Dunkirk by activating the city's waterfront, creating inclusive workforce housing and expanding economic development opportunities. We will continue to invest in Western New York's revitalization efforts, which will help bring a renewed sense of hope to its communities."

The DRI serves as a component of the State's economic development policy by transforming downtown neighborhoods into vibrant centers of activity that oer a high quality of life and attract businesses, jobs and economic and housing diversity. Like past DRI rounds, each selected community will develop a strategic plan through a bottom-up, community-based planning process that articulates a vi-

sion for the revitalization of its downtown and identies a list of signature projects that have transformative potential and leverage further private and public investments. The Department of State will then award DRI funds to selected projects with the greatest potential to jumpstart revitaliza-

tion and realize the community's vision.

Dunkirk Dunkirk seeks to harness its connection to Lake Erie to attract new investment, activate its waterfront and serve as a conduit for redevelopment of its historic business dis-

trict. New investment combined with past investments will create a robust environment for the rehabilitation and adaptive reuse of historic downtown buildings and infill development that incorporates mixed-income residential opportunities. Dunkirk's vision is to amplify the city's unique

sense of place with a genuine and authentic experience that will be catalytic for future organic growth and will foster development that is inclusive while embracing its strong heritage and ethnic diversity. Through this vision, Dunkirk will meet the needs of its diverse and strong manufactur-

ing base as well as its future digital and new biopharma employers.

The

New York Re -

-Downtown is compact, with well-dened boundaries;

-Downtown can capitalize on prior, or catalyze future private and public investment; -Recent or impending job growth within, or close to, the downtown that can attract workers, support redevelopment and make growth sustainable;

-Downtown is an attractive and livable community for diverse populations;

-Municipality already embraces, or has the ability to create and implement policies that increase livability and quality of life;

-Municipality conducted open and robust community engagement resulting in a vision for downtown revitalization and a preliminary list of projects and initiatives;

-Municipality has the local capacity to manage the DRI process; and

-Municipality has identied

Revitalization

-

Downtown Revitalization Investments are a Critical Part of the State's Comprehensive Economic Development and Community Growth Strategy

to Work with Residents, Community Leaders and Public Officials to Revitalize Dunkirk's Downtown

Western

gional Economic Development Council conducted a thorough and competitive review pro

cess of proposals submitted from communities throughout the region and considered all the criteria below before recommending Dunkirk as the nominee:

Photo Submitted

Dunkirk Mayor Wilfred Rosa with Gov. Kathy Hochul

14TH ANNUAL INDOOR TRIATHLON

SUPPORT SUICIDE PREVENTION IN CHAUTAUQUA COUNTY TO TAKE PLACE FEB. 4

a physical event. It is an opportunity to build and strengthen connections to our neighbors and community assets, so we have outlets to lean on when we are experiencing mental challenges.”

people. All proceeds for the Kick Cabin Fever Indoor Triathlon stay in Chautauqua County for suicide prevention efforts.

CHAUTAUQUA, N.Y.:--

The Suicide Prevention Alliance of Chautauqua County is pleased to announce the 14th annual Kick Cabin Fever (KCF) Indoor Triathlon will take place on Saturday, February 4, 2023 at 9 a.m. at Chautauqua Health and Fitness at Turner Community Center, 4840 W. Lake Rd. in Chautauqua, N.Y.

Carri Raynor, Coordinator of the Alliance said, “Chautauqua County experiences the beauty of all four seasons, but we know that the winter months can be challenging for some. We can feel isolated, stuck, down and

even depressed, all normal feelings during this time, so we want to promote a healthy outlet for those who are battling the winter blues and hoping to feel better by participating in a fun activity.”

Cheryl Burns, a local triathlete began the indoor triathlon one year after her brother Marty Miller died by suicide following several years of struggling with depression.

Burns said, “The intent of this event is to get people moving during one of the toughest winter months in Chautauqua County. Kick Cabin Fever is more than

“We have seen this event grow each year and want to encourage everyone of all ages to experience this fun event,” said Raynor. “You do not have to be a seasoned athlete to compete. The three events; swim, bike, and run only last a total of 45 minutes, and you’ll find positive encouragement along the way. Get together with some friends and create a team or come try it solo. Either way, you will leave with new connections and hope.”

There are approximately 20 volunteers, including friends and family, that make sure the day is fun and runs smoothly for competitors. The cost is $35 per individual or $75 per a team of two or three

The Alliance was formed when local professionals from the mental health and other health care fields saw a great need in the community for supports and education around suicide prevention. Over the past several years, The Alliance and its partner agencies have worked together to train local community members in suicide prevention and awareness. To learn more about the events they host and for more information, visit their website at preventsuicidechq.com.

If you would like to participate in this year’s event, register at https://forms. gle/8aT7ch52CFa5Ry3Z8.

For additional information, visit www.facebook. com/KickCabinFever.

Chautauqua Fallen Heroes Scholarships Awarded

Dunkirk, N.Y., January 18, 2023 - The Northern Chautauqua Community Foundation recently assisted the Chautauqua Fallen Heroes Scholarship committee

the Chautauqua Fallen Heroes Scholarship awards. This year the committee proudly awarded the scholarship to Nathan Pakulski.

Nathan, a graduate of Dunkirk High School, attends SUNY Fredonia as a Criminal Justice major, with minors in Sociology and Psychology. He was a member of the Dunkirk High School JROTC Battalion throughout his high school career, serving as Battalion Commander in his senior year. Nathan credits this experience with helping him discover a love of community service and leadership. Following in the footsteps of his father and older brother, who he says are his role models, Nathan plans to begin a career in law enforcement following his schooling.

The Chautauqua Fallen Heroes Fund was established at the NCCF in the fall of 2001. The primary purpose of this fund is to provide support to the families of county heroes – firefighters, law enforcement officers, EMS personnel, and other local uniformed heroes – who have been killed or critically debilitated in the line of duty. The fund also provides scholarships to students interested in careers in public safety. To qualify, applicants must be pursuing a career in law enforcement, firefighting, or emergency medical services.

For additional information on this scholarship, visit www.nccfoundation.org/fallen-heroes-1 or e-mail scholarships@ nccfoundation.org. A list of other scholarships is available on the website www.nccfoundation.org/ scholarships-home.

Since its incorporation in 1986, the NCCF has invested more than $20 million in northern Chautauqua County through strategic grantmaking, targeted scholarships, and leadership and community collaborations.

The NCCF is a tax-exempt charitable organization inherently committed to enhancing the northern Chautauqua community and encouraging local philanthropy. As a nationally accredited community foundation, the NCCF has proven compliance with the National Standards for U.S. Community Foundations, demonstrating integrity, equity, accountability, transparency, and effectiveness in meeting the needs of its community. For more information on the NCCF, visit www.nccfoundation.org or call 716-366-4892.

in presenting

Scholarship Available for Students in Healthcare Field

Dunkirk, N.Y., January 20, 2023- In recent years, the demand for healthcare workers nationwide and here in Chautauqua County has grown, and that trend is expected to continue. Students beginning or furthering their education in the healthcare field are encouraged to apply for a scholarship from Northern Chautauqua Community Foundation (NCCF).

The Chautauqua County Home Auxiliary Scholarship was established in 2015 by former members of the Chautauqua County Home Auxiliary. Students from northern Chautauqua County entering the healthcare field are invited to apply now through April 1, 2023. The committee will consider applications from Chautauqua Nursing and Rehab Center employees and their family members first.

Interested students can find more information and the application online at nccfoundation.org/ cnrc-scholarship. Please contact NCCF Scholarship Coordinator Michele Starwalt-Woods by phone, 716-366-4892, or by email, scholarships@nccfoun -

dation.org with any questions. Completed applications should be sent along with the required essay by April 1, 2023 to NCCF, 212 Lake Shore Drive West, Dunkirk, NY 14048. For more information about this or other scholarships available through NCCF, please visit nccfoundation. org/scholarships-home.

Since its incorporation in 1986, the NCCF has invested more than $20 million in northern Chautauqua County through strategic grantmaking, targeted scholarships, and leadership and community collaborations. The NCCF is a tax-exempt charitable organization inherently committed to enhancing the northern Chautauqua community and encouraging local philanthropy. As a nationally accredited community foundation, the NCCF has proven compliance with the National Standards for U.S. Community Foundations, demonstrating integrity, equity, accountability, transparency, and effectiveness in meeting the needs of its community. For more information on the NCCF, visit www.nccfoundation. org or call 716-366-4892.

DEC Encourages Anglers to Safely Enjoy Ice Fishing this Winter Review Ice Safety Guidelines Before Heading Out

New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) Commissioner Basil Seggos today reminded anglers to be safe when venturing onto the ice this season, especially given recent variations in weather conditions.

"New York State has been experiencing wide-ranging temperatures and weather conditions, from freezing to fairly mild," Commissioner Seggos said. "Given these unpredictable fluctuations in weather, it is critical that winter recreationists exercise extreme caution when doing anything on the ice, including fishing, to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience."

Ice anglers should check the thickness of ice before leaving the shore. Four inches of solid clear ice is usually safe for anglers accessing ice on foot. However, ice thickness can vary between waterbodies and even within the same waterbody, increasing the need to ensure thickness. Anglers should be particularly cautious of areas of moving water and around boat docks and houses where bubblers may be installed to reduce ice from forming. Checking the ice can easily be done with an auger or spud bar at various spots. In addition, fishing with a family member or friend is also encouraged for safety. Local bait and tackle shops are a great source for finding out where there is safe ice and what anglers are catching.

Those interested in trying ice fishing for the first time should mark the weekend of Feb. 18-19 on their calendars. As a designated free freshwater fishing weekend, the need for a freshwater fishing license is waived during these days. This free fishing weekend is also a great opportunity for experienced anglers to introduce someone new to fishing.

For some fish species, ice fishing can be more productive than open-water fishing. Given good ice conditions, anglers normally limited to shore fishing can access an entire

transformative projects that will be ready for near-term implementation with an infusion of DRI funds.

Dunkirk has been awarded $10 million in state funding and investments to revitalize its downtown neighborhood and generate new opportunities for long-term growth following the local planning process. Dunkirk joins the communities of Jamestown, Olean, Lockport, Niagara Falls Bridge District, North Tonawanda and Buffalo's Broadway-Fillmore Neighborhood, which were Western New York's winners in the rst five DRI rounds.

Dunkirk will begin the process of developing a Strategic Investment Plan to revitalize its downtown with up to $300,000 in planning funds from the $10 million DRI grant. A Local Planning Committee made up of municipal representatives, community leaders and other stakeholders will lead the eort, supported by a team of private sector experts and state planners. The Strategic Investment Plan will examine local assets and opportunities to identify economic development, transportation, housing, and community projects that align with each community's vision for downtown revitalization and that are poised for implementation. The Strategic Investment Plan will guide the investment of DRI grant funds in revitalization projects that will advance the community's vision for its downtown and that can leverage and expand upon the state's $10 million investment. Plans for the DRI's sixth round will be complete in 2023.

rello said, "This is great news for Dunkirk and all of Chautauqua County. This $10 million Downtown Revitalization Initiative grant will enable Dunkirk to pursue its vision as a gateway to Chautauqua County and a destination for business, industry and tourism. This investment will enable Dunkirk to redevelop its waterfront and business district to capitalize on the city's historic connection to Lake Erie. It will pave the way for private investment and generate new opportunities for long-term growth in Dunkirk and surrounding communities. Dunkirk is one of only 10 communities across New York to receive a $10 million DRI award. That's a testament to the vision of the city of Dunkirk and its citizens. I want to congratulate Mayor Rosas and thank Gov. Hochul and New York State for recognizing the need to support communities in Western New York as they reinvent themselves and build a brighter future for our residents."

Assemblymember Andy Goodell said, "Governor Hochul delivered great news to the City of Dunkirk in announcing a $10 million downtown revitalization grant. This grant will be a tremendous benefit in helping Dunkirk revitalize its downtown and generate longterm growth and opportunities aimed at making its downtown strong and vibrant."

waterbody.

Beginning ice anglers can download the Ice Fishing Chapter of DEC's I FISH NY Beginners Guide to Freshwater Fishing for helpful information on how to get started. For a more interactive option, DEC released a series of six ice fishing videos on the agency's YouTube channel late last season. Visit the playlist ) to check out the brief instructional videos. Additional information, including a list of waters open to ice fishing, can be found on the DEC ice fishing webpage, and also through the new Tackle Box feature in DEC's HuntFishNY app. Fishing regulations, access information, fish species present and more can be accessed from a mapbased interface, all within the convenience of a smart phone. The use of bait fish is popular when ice fishing and may be used in most, but not all, waters open to ice fishing. For more information on bait fish regulations visit DEC's website.

To protect New York's waters from invasive species and the spread of fish diseases, anglers are advised to take these critical steps when using baitfish while ice fishing: Review and follow DEC baitfish regulations; Ensure the use of baitfish is permitted in the waterbody by checking the special 'regulations by county' section of the fishing regulations guide;

Use only certified diseasefree bait fish purchased from a local tackle store (buyers must retain the receipt provided to them while in possession of the baitfish);

Personally collected bait fish may only be used in the same waterbody from which they were caught; and Dump unused baitfish and water in an appropriate location on dry land.

DEC reminds anglers to make sure that they have a valid fishing license before heading out on the ice. Fishing licenses are valid for 365 days from the date of purchase.

Secretary of State Robert J. Rodriguez said, "New York's Downtown Revitalization Initiative has created a renaissance in downtown resurgence that shows no signs of slowing down, and Dunkirk is the next city to benefit from this innovative program. With this funding, Dunkirk will work to develop projects that activate the Lake Erie Waterfront and connect it to downtown, transforming this neighborhood into a vibrant hub of activity for residents and visitors alike and generating sustainable economic growth for generations to come."

Empire State Development President, CEO and Commissioner Hope Knight said, "Dunkirk's future is as expansive as its Lake Erie views, validated by recent private and public investments that confirm the powerful potential of a shoreline city with a historic business district. DRI funding will enhance that vision, by funding projects that will further catalyze economic development and fuel the vibrancy of this waterfront community."

Western New York Regional Economic Development Council Co-Chair Eric Reich said, "New York State's community-driven DRI program is transforming our downtown neighborhoods into vibrant hubs, and we are pleased to see the City of Dunkirk announced as Western New York's latest DRI recipient. The city will now get to work on a strategic plan aimed at attracting investment, reenergizing the waterfront and redeveloping the historic business district. Dunkirk has an exciting future, and we can't wait to see the city reach its potential."

State Senator George Bor-

Dunkirk Mayor Wilfred Rosa said, "The City of Dunkirk is so very grateful to Governor Kathy Hochul for the New York State investment in the revitalization of Downtown Dunkirk. The DRI will provide funding to leverage prior investment in our Lake Erie waterfront and establish Dunkirk as a regional destination. We will continue the investment up Central Avenue that will reverberate throughout Dunkirk. Thank you Governor Hochul for giving Dunkirk the support our transformative vision that will make a difference."

About the Downtown Revitalization Initiative: The Downtown Revitalization Initiative was created in 2016 to accelerate and expand the revitalization of downtowns and neighborhoods in all ten regions of the state to serve as centers of activity and catalysts for investment. Led by the Department of State with assistance from Empire State Development, Homes and Community Renewal and NYSERDA, the DRI represents an unprecedented and innovative "plan-then-act" strategy that couples strategic planning with immediate implementation and results in compact, walkable downtowns that are a key ingredient to helping New York State rebuild its economy from the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, as well as to achieving the State's bold climate goals by promoting the use of public transit and reducing dependence on private vehicles.

In the first five years of the program, the state committed $600 million investing in 59 downtowns ripe for revitalization and that have the potential to become magnets for redevelopment, business, job creation, greater economic and housing diversity and opportunity. Participating communities are nominated by the state's 10 Regional Economic Development Councils based on the downtown's potential for transformation. Each community is awarded $10 million to develop a downtown strategic investment plan and implement key catalytic projects that advance the community's vision for revitalization and leverage additional private and public investments.

Jamestown, N.Y. – Children’s books are powerful tools to connect children to nature and establish a strong foundation for their educational journey.

Audubon Community Nature Center’s (ACNC) next monthly First Sunday Storytime is February 5, 2023, 12:30 – 1 p.m.

With ACNC storyteller Claire Certo in the lead, children will go on literary adventures with animals, through habitats and seasons, and discover new things with every page.

Doors open at 12:20 p.m. for ages 2 – 8 and their adults for this free, nature-based story time.

The building fully opens at 1:00 p.m. Participants are welcome to stay afterward and explore the Nature Center building.

Both the program and Sunday admission are free. Come for story time and stay to explore the indoor Nature Play Area, live animals, and exhibits. Then go outside to enjoy the outdoor Nature Play Area and visit Soren the Red-tailed Hawk.

Participation is limited to 15.

Although this is a free event, reservations are requested by Saturday, February 5, 2023. To reserve your space, call the Nature

Center during open hours at (716) 569-2345 or go to AudubonCNC.org and click through “Programs and Events.”

Walk-ins are welcome if there is room.

Audubon Community Nature Center is located at 1600 Riverside Road, one-quarter mile east of Route 62 between Jamestown, N.Y., and Warren, Pa. You can visit the nearly 600-acre nature preserve, check in on the live birds of prey, and hike, snowshoe or cross country ski over five miles

of trails dawn until dusk daily for free.

The three-story Nature Center building houses interactive displays, a collection of live animals including the Hellbender exhibit, and the Blue Heron Gift Shop. Visitors are welcome Mondays through Saturdays, 10 a.m. - 4:30 p.m., and Sundays, 1 - 4:30 p.m. Nature Center members and SNAP/EBT cardholders have free building admission daily. Building admission is also free every Sunday for non-Nature Center members.

To learn more about Audubon and its many programs, call (716) 5692345, find Audubon Community Nature Center on Facebook, or visit AudubonCNC.org.

Audubon Community Nature Center builds and nurtures connections between people and nature by providing positive outdoor experiences, opportunities to learn about and understand the natural world, and knowledge to act in environmentally responsible ways.

Opera House Presents Portrait of the Queen

FREDONIA – The 1891 Fredonia Opera House Performing Arts Center presents a special cinematic production in tribute to the late Queen Elizabeth II this Sat., Jan. 28, at 1 p.m.

Queen Elizabeth II was the most photographed, the most loved and talked about, spied upon, praised, criticized, popular woman on the planet. All over the globe and in every moment of her long life, that came to an end at the age of 96, people have wanted to watch her through a peephole, discover new things about her, get to know her better, connect with her and understand her.

Portrait of the Queen offers an original portrayal of the story of the Queen from a totally new perspective: through the most intense, amazing, revealing photographic portraits of her, as shared by the extraordinary photographers who accompanied and often created the image of the Brit-

ish monarchy itself.

Special focus is given to each of the Queen’s most intense, intimate, faithful portraits, symbols of 20th century history, contextualized by the photographers who portrayed Her Majesty – Brian Aris, Jason Bell, Julian Calder, Chris Levine, David Montgomery, and John Swannell.

In addition, sincere, spontaneous comments from British subjects alternate with conversations featuring photographer and Camera Press photo agency co-owner Emma Blau, Valentino Creative Director Pierpaolo Piccioli,

actress, author, philanthropist and model Isabella Rossellini, and Susan Sarandon, actor and activist who met the Queen in person and gives viewers a more private, intimate reflection on the role, obligations and complexities of being a monarch. This special cinematic production runs one hour, 35 minutes

Tickets are $15, ($10 students) and are available in person at the Opera House Box Office or by phone at 716-679-1891, Tuesday-Friday, 12-4:30 p.m. Tickets may be purchased online anytime at www.fredopera.org.

The Opera House is

equipped with assistive listening headsets for the hearing-impaired. Simply request one from any usher or Opera House staff member.

The 1891 Fredonia Opera House Performing Arts Center is a member-supported not-for-profit performing arts center with a mission to “present the performing arts for the benefit of our community and region … providing access to artistic diversity … and high quality programming at an affordable price.” It is located in Village Hall in downtown Fredonia. For a complete schedule of events, visit www.fredopera.org.

Photo Submitted

The first Sunday of every month Audubon Community Nature Center offers a free storytime for 2-8 year olds and their adults. Storyteller Claire Certo leads the next First Sunday Story Time on February 5, 12:30 – 1 p.m.

Opera House Cinema Series to Present Empire of Light

FREDONIA – The next film in the Cinema Series at the 1891 Fredonia Opera House Performing Arts Center is “Empire of Light,” starring Olivia Colman and Colin Firth. It will be screened Sat., Jan. 28, and Tues., Jan. 31, at 7:30 p.m.

Oscar-nominated for Best Cinematography, “Empire of Light” is about the power of human connection during turbulent times. Hilary (Colman) is a cinema manager struggling with her mental health, and Stephen (Micheal Ward) is a new employee longing to escape the provincial town where he faces daily adversity. Together they find a sense of belonging and experience the healing power of music, cinema, and community.

The Washington Post calls the film “a tender, tear-soaked valentine to the ineffable joys of movie-going.” The London Evening Standard calls it “a heartwarming reminder of the joy, comfort and necessity of the big screen experience.” Vanity Fair calls it “an achingly lovely film … something humane and nourishing, a picture of rare thoughtfulness and decency.” ScreenDaily says the film’s “message of love, tolerance and finding family wherever you can should make an impact in darkened rooms wherever it plays.” Rated R for sex-

Teachers Invited to Apply for NCCF’s Service Learning Mini-Grants

Dunkirk, N.Y., January 20, 2023- The Northern Chautauqua Community Foundation is accepting applications for the Service Learning Mini-Grants Program for the 2023-24 school year. Awards will be announced in May.

ual content, language, and brief violence, “Empire of Light” runs one hour, 59 minutes.

Tickets are available at the door the night of each screening. A book of 10 movie passes is available at the door or online at www.fredopera.org. For more information, call the Opera House Box Office at 716-679-1891.

The Opera House is equipped with assistive listening headsets for the hearing-impaired. Simply request one from any usher or staff member.

The Opera House Cinema Series is sponsored by Lake Shore Savings Bank. In addition, Opera House programming is made possible by the New York State Council on the Arts with the support of the Office of the Governor and the New York State Legislature.

The 1891 Fredonia Opera House Performing Arts Center is a member-supported not-for-profit performing arts center with a mission to “present the performing arts for the benefit of our community and region … providing access to artistic diversity … and high quality programming at an affordable price.” It is located in Village Hall in downtown Fredonia. For a complete schedule of events, visit www.fredopera.org.

Local middle and high school teachers are encouraged to apply for projects that combine community service and classroom learning. Projects relating to diversity, equity, and inclusion are highly encouraged and strongly considered. This year, five area schools received 10 grants totaling $4,700. Classrooms from all disciplines participate in this program: art, social studies, trades, science, and more.

Applications are available on the foundation’s website, along with the option to apply electronically, at www. nccfoundation.org/service-learning. Complete the form and return it to NCCF by March 31. The committee will announce the awards in May. To learn more about the Service Learning Mini-Grant Program, visit the website, call our office at 716-366-4892, or send an email to nccf@nccfoundation.org.

Since its incorporation in 1986, the NCCF has invested more than $20 million in northern Chautauqua County through strategic grantmaking, targeted scholarships, and leadership and community collaborations. The NCCF is a tax-exempt charitable organization inherently committed to enhancing the northern Chautauqua community and encouraging local phi-

lanthropy.

U.S. Community Foundations, demonstrating integrity, equity, accountability, transparency, and effectiveness in meeting

the needs of their community. For more information on the NCCF, visit www.nccfoundation.org or call 716-366-4892.

As a Nationally Accredited Community Foundation, the NCCF has proven compliance with the National Standards for

Photo Submitted

Students from Cassadaga Valley Central School participate in a project that combines classroom learning with community service, one of ten such projects supported by NCCF’s Service Learning Mini-Grants this year.