Erie Cattaraugus County Community Source 2/10/23

School Vacation

Week Activities to be Offered at AndersonLee Library

Anderson-Lee Library, located at 43 Main Street in Silver Creek will offer the following activities during February vacation week. Registration is required for storytime on Thursday morning. All other activities, feel free to drop in during the stated times. Please call the library at 716934-3468, stop by 43 Main Street, visit us at www. andersonleelibrary.org, or message us on Facebook!

Tuesday, February 21 from 1-5pm: Board Games, Puzzles, and Popcorn with Miss Jill! Did you know that the library has an extensive collection of board games and puzzles? Stop in and play a game or do a puzzle and eat some popcorn with Miss Jill!

Thursday, February 23 10:30am: Hedgehog Storytime with SunDance-Kids Farm. Meet a hedgehog, hear stories and do a hedgehog craft!

Thursday, February 23 from 1-5pm: Building Mania! Come build with Legos, Lincoln Logs,

traditional blocks, Keva Planks, and more!

Thursday, February 23 from 1-3: Learn to Crochet. For all skill levels and ages 10+. Bring 4-ply yarn and an H crochet hook.

Friday, February 24 from 1-5pm: Crafternoon! Come craft to your heart’s contents with all of the odds and ends we will be pulling out from our craft closets!

Friday, February 24 from 2-3: Chess Club will meet to play and learn. All skill levels welcome. For ages 10+ Anderson-Lee Library is open to the public Monday and Tuesday from 12-8 pm, Thursday 10 am to 8 pm, Friday 12-5 pm, and Saturday 10 am-2 pm. The library is closed Wednesday and Sunday. Fax and copy service is available anytime the library is open. Visit our website at www.andersonleelibrary. org or our Facebook page at https://www.facebook. com/AndersonLeeLibrary for the latest up to date information.

2022-2024 Community Health Assessment and Community Health Improvement Plan Available to the Public

MAYVILLE, N.Y.:-

The Chautauqua County Department of Health and Human Services (CCDHHS), Brooks-TLC Hospital System, Inc., UPMC Chautauqua and Allegheny Health Network Westfield has announced the completion of the 20222024 Community Health Assessment and Community Health Improvement Plan. CCDHHS would like to thank all members of the Chautauqua County Community Health Planning Team (CCCHPT) for their collaboration, support, flexibility, and willingness to try new health improvement initiatives. This group consists of representation from UPMC Chautauqua Hospital, BrooksTLC Hospital System, Inc., Allegheny Health Network Westfield Memorial Hospital, The Chautauqua Center, The Resource Center, Chautauqua County Office for the Aging, KEE Consulting, Prevention Works, Chautauqua County Mental Hygiene, and the Chautauqua Health Network.

The Community Health Assessment is in conjunction with the New York State Department of Health (NYSDOH) Prevention Agenda. The Prevention Agenda for 2019-2024 is New York State’s health improvement plan; the blueprint for state and local action to improve the health and well-being of all New Yorkers and to promote health equity in all populations who experience disparities. This assessment researches data trends in Chautauqua County, compares data trends across New York State and provides a plan for the upcoming years to improve public health

Two More Events in the LERGP Winter Conference Series

event, to see registration and cost options, and to register you can visit https:// lergp.cce.cornell.edu/event.

php?id=563#.

The Lake Erie Regional Grape Program is a cooperative effort between Cornell and Penn State Universities; the participating Cornell Cooperative Extension Associations of Chautauqua, Erie, Niagara and Cattaraugus Counties in New York and Erie County in Pennsylvania; and participating industry partners National Grape Cooperative (Welch’s), Constellation Brands and Walkers Fruit Basket. The LERGP extension team provides research-based educational programming for commercial grape growers throughout the year at venues across the Lake Erie grape belt. For more information on LERGP, call 716-792-2800 or visit our website at https:// lergp.cce.cornell.edu/

concerns.

CCCHPT is committed on using assessment information to educate our community on problematic health trends in our county. There are five areas of focus throughout this assessment that include:

· Prevent Chronic Diseases

· Promote a Healthy and Safe Environment

· Promote Healthy Women, Infants and Children

· Promote Well-being and Prevent Mental and Substance Use Disorders

· Prevent Communicable Diseases.

"I applaud the partners involved for their hard work and dedication to provide the County with this much needed information.” said Chautauqua County’s Interim Public Health Director, Michael Faulk, M.D. “I look forward to engaging with community partners in the coming months to collaboratively work to overcome some of the obstacles facing our County.”

More information about the New York State Prevention Agenda can be found at https://www.health.ny.gov/ prevention/prevention_ agenda/2019-2024/. You can find the full 20222024 Community Health Assessment and Community Health Improvement Plan on Chautauqua County’s website: https://chqgov.com/healthand-human-services/AnnualReports.

-BY KIM KNAPPENBERGER

PORTLAND, NEW YORK

(February 2, 2023) – The Lake Erie Regional Grape Program is excited to be able to host 2 more events in the Winter Grower’s Conference series for grape growers. The series is a hybrid of virtual and in-person events designed to give growers access to recent research being done that can be applied in vineyard practices. The first meeting was held virtually on December 9th.

The next meeting to be held will be a virtual Zoom event on Thursday, February 9th from 10:00AM until 12:00 noon. Justine Vanden Heuvel will join us first, she

is a Professor of Viticulture at Cornell University. In addition to teaching the upper level viticulture course, she leads a research program that has been studying bioinoculants for several years. Her focus for this meeting is reporting on an industry inspired study on agricultural bioinoculants containing fungi and/or bacteria which represent a potential opportunity to reduce the dependence of grapevines on agrochemicals. Our own Kevin Martin, the LERGP Business Management Specialist, will follow her talk with information about current integrated approaches to fertilizer management and their costs. There are no pesticide credits available at this meeting.

The final event of the series is our in-person 2023 Grape Growers’ Winter Conference to be held on Thursday, March 16th at the SUNY Fredonia Williams Center, SUNY Fredonia Campus. This will be a full day from 8AM to 4:30PM and will feature speakers from Cornell University, Rochester Institute of Technology, NYS Integrated Pest Management Program, and Penn State University. In addition, there will be vendors available to talk with and learn about what is available. As always, a delicious lunch is included in the registration fee. Pesticide credits are available.

To learn more about either

The Lake Erie Regional Grape Program is one of many programs offered by Cornell Cooperative Extension of Chautauqua County (CCE-Chautauqua). CCE-Chautauqua is a community based educational organization, affiliated with Cornell University, Chautauqua County Government, the NYS SUNY system, and the federal government through the United States Department of Agriculture’s National Institute of Food and Agriculture. For more information, call 716-664-9502 or visit our website at www.cce.cornell.edu/chautauqua. Cornell University Cooperative Extension provides equal program and employment opportunities.

Alternatives to common Valentine’s gifts

adults have access to hot meals.The Feeding America network is a nationwide network of food banks that secures and distributes meals. Individuals can learn more about volunteerism or how to make donations at feedingamerica.org/.

Traditional: Lingerie

Alternative: Time spent together In a poll of more than 350 women, Business Insider discovered that lingerie was one of the gifts women did not want to receive on Valentine’s Day. In fact, 97 percent of respondents weren’t fans of receiving lingerie on Valentine’s Day. Spending time together doing something couples are passionate about may be more well-received.

Millions of people are set to spend untold dollars on Valentine’s Day gifts or experiences this year. Data compiled by InfographicPlaza.com indicates that individuals traditionally spend the most on jewelry, a night out, flowers, apparel, and gift cards on Valentine’s Day. Fifty-two percent of people who buy Valentine’s gifts will spend money on candy, particularly chocolate.

Though tried and true gifts never fail, those looking for something a little different this Valentine’s day can consider these alternatives.

Traditional: Candy/choco -

late Alternative: Baked goods

Bite-sized baked offerings can be a welcome change to boxed chocolates or chocolate-covered strawberries. Consider petit fours, which are tasty layered cakes about one to two inches in size. The popular franchise Nothing Bundt Cakes also offers Bundtinis™, which are slightly smaller than cupcakes and can be mixed and matched in a variety of cake flavors.

Traditional: Bouquet of a dozen red roses

Alternative: Flowering

plant Even well-maintained cut bouquets only last so long. A flowering plant can endure much longer. Beautiful interior flowering plants include African violets, Bromeliads, Orchids, Peace lilies, Amaryllis, Christmas cactuses, and Jasmines.

Traditional: Dinner out

Alternative: Feed the needy Civic-minded sweethearts may appreciate the thought of donating the time and money they might normally spend on a restaurant meal by helping to ensure needy children and

Traditional: Stuffed animal

Alternative: Adopted animal There are only so many stuffed animals, particularly fuzzy teddy bears, an adult can collect. Instead, why not adopt a shelter animal or donate to an animal rights organization? Before gifting a pet, confirm the recipient is on board with the idea. A pet is a years-long emotional and financial commitment that requires forethought and planning.

Couples can look beyond the traditional when shopping for Valentine’s Day gifts this year.

Planning Your Garden! Coming to Anderson-Lee Library

The Silver Creek Hanover Garden Club is partnering with the Anderson-Lee Library to bring you - Planning Your Garden, a presentation by Master Gardeners Tamara Bacho and Shannon Rinnow. Learn about seed starting, how to read a seed packet, soil testing and why it is important, composting, pest and weed management and the importance of native plants and pollinators. Get your questions answered!

Planning Your Garden, Saturday February 11th, 11am at the Anderson-Lee Library. Located at 43 Main

St, Silver Creek NY. Preregistration is encouraged. Register onlineandersonleelibrary.org or by phone (716) 934-3468

Members of the Silver Creek Hanover Garden Club will be in attendance if you are interested in joining the club, maintaining a garden space or have any questions. We will also have free seed packets available while supplies last. Check out our newly opened Community Seed Library housed within the Anderson-Lee Library. We can't wait to plan our gardens! Join us!

Photo Submitted

2022 Winter Grower’s Conference during a session

Two New Programs Starting at AndersonLee Library in Silver Creek

Anderson-Lee Library, located at 43 Main Street in Silver Creek will offer two new programs starting in February.

Chess Club: All skill levels are welcome to come to Chess Club! We will meet on Fridays, starting February 10, from 2-3pm. For ages 10+ and registration is not required. Please stop in and play!

Learn to Crochet: A six week learn to crochet class will meet on Thursdays from 1-3pm and starts February 23. All skill levels are welcome. You do not need to commit to the 6 weeks to participate. Each participant should bring a 4-ply yarn and an H crochet hook. Ages 10 and up are

welcome. Registration is requested, but not mandatory. Drop in if you can!

Anderson-Lee Library is open to the public Monday and Tuesday from 12-8 pm, Thursday 10 am to 8 pm, Friday 12-5 pm, and Saturday 10 am-2 pm. The library is closed Wednesday and Sunday. Fax and copy service is available anytime the library is open. Please call 716-934-3468 for more information about our programs and services. Visit our website at www. andersonleelibrary.org or our Facebook page at https://www.facebook. com/AndersonLeeLibrary for the latest up to date information.

NCCF Accepting Letters of Interest for Community Benefit Grants

Dunkirk, N.Y., February

6, 2022 - The deadline is fast approaching for Letters of Interest for the Community Grants Program of the Northern Chautauqua Community Foundation. Organizations wishing to apply should submit Letters of Interest no later than Wednesday, March 1, 2023. Please visit nccfoundation.org/grantsprograms for complete eligibility requirements and guidelines.

The Community Benefit Grants Program considers grant proposals from nonprofit organizations biannually in March and September. Grant proposals must efficiently and effectively address identified community needs or new opportunities. Letters of interest should not exceed two pages in length and should include the following:

A brief project description, including how this project furthers the organization’s mission.

The anticipated and measurable impacts of the project, including the number of people who might benefit, specific community benefits, or both.

The total project cost and specific amount requested.

The signature of the Executive Director or President of the organization and the name and contact information of the primary person responsible for the proposal.

After review by the NCCF Grants Committee, selected organizations will be invited to submit full grant applications. Letters of Interest should be sent

DEC Reminds Visitors to State

Lands to Love Our New York Lands and Leave No TraceTM Enjoy Winter Recreation Safely

The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) today reminded visitors to the Adirondack and Catskill Forest Preserves and all State lands to recreate safely and responsibly and practice Leave No Trace™ this winter. Everyone who recreates on New York's State lands has a responsibility to adequately prepare themselves and protect natural resources for future generations. Following the Seven Principles of Leave No Trace™, set forth by the Leave No Trace Center for Outdoor Ethics, is one way visitors are encouraged to Love Our New York Lands. This weekend, temperatures are expected to drop to -45 degrees Fahrenheit in the Adirondack High Peaks. DEC encourages anyone with plans to venture outdoors to consider changing those plans. In dangerously cold weather, as forecast for this weekend, frostbite only takes 10 minutes to take effect.

"In the Northeast, we are no strangers to the cold, but this weekend's weather is different and we need to take precautions when outdoors," said DEC Commissioner Basil Seggos. "With wind chills reaching -50, there is a risk of rapid onset of hypothermia and frostbite. While DEC's Forest Rangers are prepared to rescue anyone in need, outdoor adventurers are advised not to put themselves or first responders in unnecessary danger. The Adirondacks, Catskills, and our many forests, wildlife management areas, and other State Lands will still be there to enjoy and share when temperatures rise."

water, navigation, warm layers, snowshoes and traction devices, a headlamp, first-aid kit, emergency kit, emergency shelter, and matches or a lighter. Stay up to date with current weather reports leading up to a trip. If the forecast calls for harsh conditions, consider rescheduling. Make a timeline, including a turnaround time, and stick to it. Always leave trip plans with someone who will call for help if you don't return on time. For more tips on preparing for a safe outdoor winter experience, visit DEC's winter hiking safety page.

Travel and Camp on Durable Surfaces

Impacts

Confirm that fires are permitted before you build one. Use designated fireplaces whenever possible and only burn dead and downed wood. When you're done with the fire, extinguish it completely. Never leave a fire unattended or have a fire inside a structure such as a lean-to or tent.

Respect Wildlife

electronically to NCCF Program Coordinator Eileen Ardillo at eardillo@ nccfoundation.org.

The Community Benefit Grants Program is made possible through the generosity of donors who have established or contributed to Community Funds at the NCCF. Community Funds allow the NCCF’s Board of Directors flexibility to address the community’s emergent needs and maximize opportunities as they arise. To contribute to an already existing fund or to establish a named Community Fund, visit nccfoundation.org, call 716-366-4892, or mail your contribution to NCCF, 212 Lake Shore Drive West, Dunkirk, NY, 14048.

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.

Lincoln Arms Housing

When weather conditions are more suitable than the cold weather this week, there are steps visitors can take to help protect themselves and the places they visit, however, they choose to recreate. The Leave No Trace™ Seven Principles provide helpful guidance for reducing impacts on the environment and keeping everyone safe.

Plan Ahead and Prepare

Proper planning is vital to a safe winter adventure. Know personal limits, set realistic goals, and choose an experience appropriate for everyone in the group. Research trails and routes before setting out and contact DEC or other knowledgeable parties with questions.

Winter weather can change rapidly. Prepare for every occasion by bringing the 10 Hike Smart NY essentials, including food,

Stick to designated trails and campsites as much as possible. Skis or snowshoes are recommended whenever there is significant snowpack and are required in the Eastern High Peaks when snow depths reach eight inches. Snowshoes make walking in deep snow easier and help prevent postholing, the act of creating deep holes in the snow with bare boots. Remember that snow will likely be deeper at higher elevations. Use traction devices, such as crampons or microspikes, to travel safely on icy trails.

Dispose of Waste Properly

Pack out garbage, food scraps, broken gear, and pet waste. Dispose of trash in a designated can at the trailhead or at home. 'Go before you go' and use toilets or outhouses whenever possible. While the ground is frozen, making cat holes hard to dig, be prepared to pack out poop where toilets aren't available.

Leave What You Find

Leave trail signs and markers so others can find their way. Leave historic artifacts and natural features for others to enjoy. Last but not least, don't carve or graffiti rocks, trees, or backcountry structures.

Minimize Campfire

Appreciate wildlife from a distance. Don't follow, approach, or feed them. Human food can harm wildlife and feeding animals can create bad habits that lead to dangerous human interactions, unnatural habituation, and unsustainable dependency.

Be Considerate of Other

Visitors

Help all visitors have a safe

and enjoyable experience by following winter trail etiquette. Wear snowshoes or skis on snowy trails to avoid post-holing and separate ski and snowshoe tracks when possible. Yield to downhill skiers, keep to the right side of the trail, and use the left to pass. Snowmobile riders are reminded to respect posted signage and slow down when passing pedestrians or traveling through densely populated areas. For more information about snowmobile safety, go to the NYS Parks website. To learn more about safe, responsible recreation in all seasons, visit the Love Our New York Lands page on DEC's website. For more helpful tips on preparing for your next adventure, check out the Outdoor Recreation playlist on DEC's Youtube channel.

Melody Meadows Home Construction Inc. Hogg Builders Inc. 8930 Erie Rd. Angola, NY 716-549-5995

Opera House Cinema Series to Present A Man Called Otto

FREDONIA – The next film in the Cinema Series at the 1891 Fredonia Opera House Performing Arts Center is “A Man Called Otto,” starring Tom Hanks. It will be screened Sat., Feb. 11, and Tues., Feb. 14, at 7:30 p.m.

Based on the comical and moving Swedish novel “A Man Called Ove,” a New York Times bestseller, “A Man Called Otto” tells the story of Otto Anderson (Hanks), a grumpy widower whose only joy comes from criticizing and judging his exasperated neighbors. When a lively young family moves in next door, he meets his match in quick-witted and very pregnant Marisol (Mariana Treviño), leading to an unlikely friendship that turns his world upsidedown and proving that some families come from the most unexpected places.

The Washington Post calls the film “a cozy crowd-pleaser.”

The Chicago Sun Times says the film provides

“another memorable performance from the veteran actor (Hanks), backed by a crackling good supporting cast.”

Playlist says the film “has earned a space in the list of worthy remakes for its big heart and emotionally charged performances that don’t skimp on the comedy.” Rated PG-13 for mature thematic material involving suicide attempts, and language, “A Man Called Otto” runs two hours, six 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 membersupported not-forprofit 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.