The Resource Center recently observed National Direct Support Professional Recognition Week by honoring employees who have done an exemplary job in providing direct support to the people with developmental disabilities who TRC serves.

The agency’s annual Everyday Hero Celebration was an opportunity to acknowledge the efforts of direct support professionals (DSPs) throughout the agency while spotlighting five employees for their efforts during the past year. Those employees were Gladys Alverio, Alta Harding, Pennifer McCartney, Christine Monroe, and Lauri Vincent.

Mark Morton, Assistant Executive Director for Employee Relations, welcomed people to the event, held at The Resource Center’s administrative offices on Dunham Avenue in Celoron.

“We have so many great DSPs,” said Mark. He noted that the interaction between direct support professional and the person they’re supporting is the most important quality measure for agencies like The Resource Center.

“If you think about it, all the activities of The Resource Center really go to supporting that interaction. That is really what this agency is about,” Mark said. “That interaction really drives the mission – helping people be more independent, bettering the quality of life, being more productive.”

He added that the role of a DSP is similar to other jobs that require proficiency in a number of hard and soft skills.

“Like any other recognized profession – whether it’s nursing, teaching – being a professional in direct support requires a multitude of skills, competencies, attitudes, and beliefs. So the people we hear about today bring those skills, qualities, competencies, attitudes, and beliefs needed for the many interactions they have with the people they support, each and every day.”

Mary Jo Hamilton, Director of Intellectual and Developmental Disability Services noted that when she visits TRC’[s homes and Day Programs, she notices all of the ways in which staff are supporting people to have the best lives possible.

“I see all the DSPs paying attention to really all those little, tiny details for each person, so they can ensure that everyone’s comfortable,” Mary Jo said. “Yhey’re ensuring that whatever they want is happening, whether it be going to a Buffalo Bills game or going for a walk in the park. So however big or small it is, you guys are the ones that are making sure that it’s happening.”

Denise Jones, TRC’s Executive Director, praised the DSPs for the support they provide to people with disabilities. She said that when she encounters DSPs, “One of the first things I ask is, `What do you enjoy about what you do?’ And without hesitation, and without exception, the first response is, `We do what we do for the people we support. We love the people that we support, and that’s why we’re here and that’s why we do the job.’ It gives me chills. I have goosebumps right now just repeating that, because that’s where we need you to be, and that’s where our staff are, and I’m so proud of that.”

Denise told the DSPs at the Everyday Hero event, “Your dedication and your support for the people we support is just outstanding and second to none.”

Terri Johnson, Director of Employment and Community-Based Services, told the Everyday Heroes that the work done by DSPs and Community Coaches is what makes TRC successful.

“Without your dedication and hard work, it’s not possible for us to do what we do on an everyday basis. Thank you so much for not only inspiring the people that you support, but the rest of your teams as well,” Terri said. “Now you are part of an elite group of people that all of your co-workers should be aspiring to get to as an Everyday Hero.”

Assemblyman Andrew Goodell dropped by the event to praise TRC’s DSPs and present each Everyday Hero with a certificate from his office. County Executive George Borrello also provided certificates to the Everyday Heroes.

Here is some info about our 2019 Everyday Heroes:

Gladys Alverio – Gladys, a Direct Support Professional at TRC’s home on Eagle Street in Dunkirk, has only worked at The Resource Center for about 18 months, but in that time she has made a positive impression. She is a reliable employee who always is at work when she’s assigned and is willing to work extra shifts when needed. Gladys often cooks with the home’s residents.

“She rallied other staff members around her and shows natural leadership skills,” said the co-worker who nominated her as an Everyday Hero. “Gladys always is heard laughing and has such an upbeat outlook. “Gladys takes new employees under her direction and trains them properly to the daily functioning of the house, for the benefit of the people we support.”

Alta Harding – Alta, a Lead DSP at one of TRC’s homes on Foote Avenue in Jamestown, has worked at The Resource Center for about three years. She is described as a hard worker who is dedicated to enhancing the lives of the people living in the home and who advocates for the residents to experience the best things in life while working toward independence.

“Every day, Alta comes into work with an amazing attitude and makes everyone around her happier,” said a co-worker who nominated her. “Alta continues to find new ways to engage with our individuals and helps other staff in finding new approaches.”

“Alta is very dedicated, she is reliable and is a joy to work with,” said another co-worker. “Alta has a great relationship with all the people she supports and also their families, and her co-workers.”

Pennifer McCartney – Penny is a Community Coach who has worked for The Resource Center since 2003. In her role, she integrates people with developmental disabilities into the community, and she is adept at coming up with fun and interesting experiences. Examples include arranging for people to make chocolate treats during a visit to Webb’s Candy Shop in Mayville, and a trip to the Grape Discovery Center in Westfield to learn about the local grape industry.

“Not only does Penny go above and beyond to provide fun opportunities, she is also very patient and loyal to the people she supports,” said the co-worker who nominated her. “She is a great communicator, brings fun and humor with her wherever she goes and is truly passionate about providing the utmost support to people.”

Christine Monroe – Christine, a DSP Lead in the Discoveries Day Habilitation Program, has worked at The Resource Center for three years. The program offers opportunities for people with developmental disabilities to explore their community and become a part of it. Christine was cited for her efforts in finding places for people to visit.

“She takes the time to make sure that each place in the community they go to is somewhere that the people have chosen,” said the person who nominated Christine. “She makes their time in the community meaningful, enjoyable, and encourages the people to learn and develop relationships.” She has even taken American Sign Language training so that she can help a person she supports to better communicate with people in the community.

Lauri Vincent – Lauri, a Self-Determination Assistant, has worked at The Resource Center for about two years. She was honored for the ways in which she has supported a woman to improve her life by, among other things, obtaining her driver’s license and acquiring a job.

“Lauri is absolutely wonderful in assisting the person she supports,” said the person who nominated her. “Lauri provides support to help her with her anxiety so she is able to be successful in her life. Lauri motivates/encourages her daily and has made a huge difference in her life for the best.”

Thirteen other employees nominated for Everyday Hero recognition received honorable mention: Don Caruso, Alyssa Fardink, Jessica Hatfield, Lisa Hoch, Ashley Luka-Conley, Jason Lutgen, Jill Marsh, Cherish Matteson, Kayla Ormsby, Tanya Schmidt, Cheryl Stow, Nichole Washer, and Margaret Wilson.

Click here to listen to a radio show about the Everyday Hero Celebration.

Click here if you’d like to make a donation to next year’s Everyday Hero Celebration in honor of one of this year’s awardees, or your favorite DSP.

The achievements of people with disabilities and the efforts of those who support them will be showcased when The Resource Center holds its 31st annual Ability Awareness Awards Celebration on Thursday, October 24.

The event will be held at the Chautauqua Harbor Hotel, 10 Dunham Avenue in Celoron, starting at noon.

The awards recognize people with disabilities who have made significant accomplishments, as well as Resource Center employees, area residents and businesses that have improved the lives of people with disabilities. This year’s award recipients are:

• Advocate of the Year – Don Caruso
• Business/Employer of the Year – Servpro
• Community Partnership Award – Fluvanna Free Library
• Bruce Walford Community Service Award – Shelly Pratt
• Health Provider of the Year – William Bowler, PT
• Lifetime Achievement Award – Lyman Buck III
• Edwin Roth Mental Health Award – Laurie Fenton, PNP
• Outstanding Achievement Award – Dione Ransom
• Personal Success Award – Jesterfer Johnson
• Elmer Muench Volunteer of the Year – Sunny Side Up Band

 

In addition, Andrew Dyckes of Fredonia will receive an award for being honored by New York State Industries for the Disabled, Inc. NYSID selected Andy for recognition through its annual William B. Joslin Outstanding Performance Award Program.

Members of The Resource Center, people with disabilities, TRC staff and volunteers, and the general public are invited to attend the Ability Awareness Awards Celebration. A sign language interpreter will be on hand.

The event is being sponsored by The Resource Center and NYSID. The cost to attend is $25. Reservations are due by Thursday, October 10. Click here to make your reservation online. For more information, phone 661-1477 or e-mail [email protected].

The experiences of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities will be shared when The Resource Center presents the fifth annual Sprout Film Festival on Wednesday, September 18.

The festival takes place at 7:00 p.m. in the Reg Lenna Center for the Arts at 116 East Third Street in Jamestown. Admission is free thanks to a grant from Filling the Gap, Inc., which works with The Resource Center to improve the lives of people with disabilities in Chautauqua County.

The Sprout Film Festival features short films that celebrate the diverse lives and creativity of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. The films seek to challenge assumptions and break down stereotypes about people with disabling conditions.

Sprout is a traveling film festival, and each host community selects the films that will be screened locally. For this year’s festival, organizers have chosen 13 films. The films include some that have not previously been shown in Jamestown, as well as memorable films that have aired during the past four local Sprout festivals.

“Since much of the public has not been able to attend every festival, we wanted to re-screen some past years’ favorite films, such as Bumblebees and Ingrid’s Big Jump,” said The Resource Center’s Kevin Anderson, one of the festival’s lead organizers. “These two films were crowd favorites and really get to the heart of what the festival is all about – that people with disabilities are just people, with hopes and dreams like anyone else.”

“This year’s new selections are sure to please as well,” said TRC’s Beth Jermain, who also helps organize the festival.  “We have two music videos that will make people want to dance in their seats.  One film that will be many people’s favorite is Best Friends. It features kids and dogs, so how could it miss?”

For more information about the Sprout Film Festival, phone 485-4602 or visit www.resourcecenter.org/sprout, where visitors can also view the festival trailer to get a feel for some of the films.

Raymour & Flanigan will host an exhibit showcasing the artistic talents of people with developmental disabilities the last week of August.

Works by people in The Resource Center’s Creations art program will be on display at Raymour & Flanigan’s Jamestown showroom beginning August 25. The weeklong exhibit is titled “Art from the Heart.” People can come to the store, located at 1001 Fairmount Avenue in Jamestown, anytime during normal business hours.

The week will culminate with a gala from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. on Friday, August 30. The free event will feature music and refreshments. Those in attendance will have the opportunity to meet a few of the artists and buy some of the works being displayed. Everyone who attends also will be entered into a drawing to win one of the pieces of art at the exhibit!

The Creations program, which has been in existence for about 12 years, gives people with developmental disabilities a way to express artistically what they may have difficulty conveying verbally. Susan Gutierrez, TRC’s art instructor, works with hundreds of people in The Resource Center’s day programs in Jamestown and Dunkirk.

“The show will have approximately 45 paintings with acrylic paint, watercolor and mixed media,” Susan said.  “There will also be photography on display, as well as many ceramic pieces, jewelry and note cards. The artwork is created by people that attend The Resource Center’s Day Programs.”

Creations artists have had their works exhibited in a number of public venues over the years. This marks the third time Raymour & Flanigan has hosted an exhibit of works by TRC’s artists.

“This is an exciting event for the artists of The Resource Center, and we are so grateful for the wonderful people of Raymour and Flanigan for the opportunity to share their talents with the community,” Susan said.

Those attending the art exhibit or gala will have an opportunity to receive a discount in eligible purchases at Raymour & Flanigan through September 30.

For more information about the exhibit or gala, phone Raymour & Flanigan at 483-3111 or The Resource Center at 483-2344.

 

 

Nominations are being accepted for The Resource Center’s 31st annual Disability Awareness and Recognition Awards.

Every year, people with disabilities in Chautauqua County make tremendous strides in their quest to lead productive, meaningful lives. And every day, they are supported in their efforts by a wide segment of the community that appreciates and values the contributions those with disabilities can make, if given a chance.

To recognize the efforts of people with disabilities and those who support them, each year The Resource Center holds a celebration to pay tribute to this deserving group by presenting the Disability Awareness and Recognition Awards. The public is encouraged to nominate people with disabilities whom they know, or people and organizations from the community that have had a positive impact on the lives of those with disabling conditions.

Nominations are being accepted in the following categories:

– Advocate of the Year, recognizing extraordinary efforts in advocating for one’s own rights or the rights of other people with disabilities.

– Bruce Walford Community Service Award, honoring a person who demonstrates the following characteristics: a commitment to the community; selflessness; the initiative and the ingenuity to forge forward and make things happen; and enthusiasm and exuberance that inspire others. This award was established in memory of the late Bruce “Wally” Walford, who was the manager of TRC’s Dunkirk Work Center Program.

– Business/Employer of the Year, recognizing an employer that has improved the availability, accessibility and quality of integrated, competitive or supported employment for people with disabilities.

– Community Support Award, given to a person, service group or business that has provided unique opportunities and experiences to people with disabilities.

– Edwin Roth Memorial Award, recognizing a person with a behavioral health challenge, an advocate, an agency, a professional, or a community member, that has supported efforts to improve the lives of people with mental illness or substance abuse challenges. This award is named in honor of the late Ed Roth, a New York State Office of Mental Health official who was a strong advocate for people with mental illness.

– Elmer Muench Volunteer of the Year, honoring a person who has donated time, talents and/or expertise toward improving the quality of life for people with disabilities. Volunteer service could include interacting directly with people with disabilities, assisting with special events or serving on a board or committee. This award is named in honor of the late Elmer Muench of Fredonia, a longtime volunteer and advocate for people with disabilities.

– Health Provider of the Year, honoring an entity or professional that has enhanced the lives of people with disabilities by providing outstanding health services.

– Outstanding Achievement, saluting a person with a disability who has made significant advancements in developing personal skills.

– Success of the Year, praising a person with a disability who has achieved his or her goals in the areas of community integration and/or employment.

Nominees do not have to be affiliated with The Resource Center. A selection committee composed of community volunteers will decide which nominees are most deserving of the awards.

Nominations will be accepted until September 4. Each nomination must include a narrative explaining why the nominee is deserving of an award, including examples of how the nominee has positively impacted people with disabilities. Click here to submit a nomination. If you want a nomination form sent to you, phone Victoria Trass Bardo at (716) 661-1477. Nominations can be mailed to the Awards Planning Committee, c/o The Resource Center, 200 Dunham Avenue, Jamestown, NY, 14701. Nominations also can be faxed to (716) 485-4612.

The awards will be presented at the Disability Awareness Awards Celebration on October 24 at the Chautauqua Harbor Hotel in Celoron.

Once again, Denise Jones’ business and leadership skills have drawn acclaim.

Denise, The Resource Center’s Chief Executive Officer, is ranked No. 29 on Buffalo Business First magazine’s 2019 list of the 125 most powerful women in Western New York. This marks the fifth consecutive year Denise has been ranked in the top 50 on the annual list of the most powerful businesswomen in the eight-county region. It also marks the second time this year she has been recognized by Business First: in February, the magazine ranked Denise No. 91 on its list of the 250 most influential people in Western New York.

The Power 125 Women list was compiled by Business First’s reporters and editors.

“This list brings women to the forefront whom we deem to be a force in the community and work world,” said Donna Collins, Business First’s Managing Editor. “For purposes of this list, we defined power by the level of influence a woman has in her orbit – at her company, in her city or county, by the length of her career. But truly, there’s no easy way to define power and influence. We all know it when we see it – it’s that simple and that complicated.”

Denise was the highest-ranked Chautauqua County businesswoman on the list. TRC officials were pleased that she again has been recognized by Business First.

“The Board of Directors was delighted to learn that for the fifth straight year, Denise has been included in the Business First listing of the 125 Most Powerful Women in Western New York,” said Patricia Perlee, President of TRC’s Board of Directors. “Denise is dynamic, knowledgeable and well respected within the community. She believes every individual is unique and valued and should be respected. We are extremely fortunate to have a director of Denise’s caliber heading our organization.”

Denise has been with The Resource Center since 1990. She served as Associate Executive Director and Chief Operating Officer for eight years before being named Executive Director and CEO in 2015.

The Resource Center operates three business lines. TRC’s core mission is to support people with disabilities and their families. The Resource Center also provides a variety of health-related services that can be utilized by anyone, regardless of whether they have a disability. TRC also performs subcontracting work for local businesses and the federal government at manufacturing facilities in Jamestown and Dunkirk. To learn more, phone 483-2344 or visit www.resourcecenter.org.

Others from Chautauqua County or the disability services field who made the Power 125 Women list were:

• Rhonda Frederick, President and CEO of People Inc., No. 6
• Bridget Bartolone, CEO of Person Centered Services, No. 25
• Mari Howard, Executive Director of Intandem, No. 40
• Rachel Foley, Chief Financial Officer and Treasurer of Lake Shore Savings, No. 61
• Journey Gunderson, Executive Director of the National Comedy Center, No. 87
• Mindy Cervoni, President and CEO of Community Services for Every1, No. 90
• Anna Dibble, Plant Manager at Cummins Inc., No. 96

Patricia Perlee was elected President of The Resource Center’s Board of Directors at the agency’s Annual Membership Meeting, held in the TRC Community Health Center on East Second Street in Jamestown.

Also elected as officers for the Board’s 2019-20 term were Richard Erickson, Vice President; Marie Carrubba, Esq., Secretary; and Craig Colburn, Treasurer.

Elected to two-year Board terms were Dr. Dawn Columbare, R. Michael Goldman, Esq., Lisa Goodell, and Elizabeth Williams. Dawn and Mike were reelected to the Board, while Lisa and Elizabeth replaced Donna Haenggi and Marlene Sirianno, Esq. Donna and Marlene had both served three consecutive terms and therefore, in accordance with TRC’s by-laws, had to step down from the Board.

Elected to the Nominating Committee for The Resource Center’s 2020 election were Deborah Brown, Wayne Hotelling, Julie McCarthy, Rita Monaco, and Sharon Richards.

Reports on The Resource Center’s 2018 activities were given by Mike, who was the Board President the previous three years, and Executive Director Denise Jones. Craig gave the financial report.

“It’s been a pleasure and a privilege to serve as your President,” Mike said. “When I took over the position, my priorities were to create financial stability, improve staff collegiality, all while maintaining our quality of care. And I’m happy to report and to say, we have done so.”

In his financial report, Craig said TRC had enjoyed a successful year. Revenues were about $79 million while expenses were $76.5 million. He noted that TRC’s 2018 external audit resulted in zero adjustments. “For an organization of this size, and particularly this complexity, for our staff to manage the financials and the books good enough that there’s absolutely no adjustments I think is just phenomenal.”

Denise shared some of TRC’s results from last year. She noted that the organization had supported 181 people with disabilities to have jobs with 148 employers in the community, and assisted 78 people in starting a job. She added that Allied Industries, TRC’s manufacturing division, ended the year with zero customer returns and zero customer complaints, while achieving a 96 percent on-time delivery rate for its products. Financially, she said The Resource Center realized positive operating results for the fourth straight year.

Denise thanked Board members for their volunteer service in governing the organization. “We have a great, interactive Board. Our Board is always more than 50 percent family/blood relatives of people with disabilities, which puts a great focus and a great insight into what we do as an organization, because we know our Board truly cares about what we do.”

She also praised the commitment and dedication of TRC’s more than 1,000 employees.

Following the Election, Patty addressed the audience.

“Thank you all very much for placing your trust in me to lead the Board of Directors for 2019-2020. It’s a responsibility that I will take very seriously but very optimistically,” she said. “We know what fabulous leadership, executive and management teams we have. We know the staff is wonderful. We know where we stand in the community, so it’s with optimism that I accept this position as president of the board of directors.”

In appreciation for his years of service as President, Mike received a painting made by an artist with disabilities in The Resource Center’s Creations Art Program, as well as a plaque. Donna and Marlene also received paintings, as was Thomas Glatz, who left the Board in May after serving for five years.

The meeting included a presentation by Heather C. Brown, Assistant Executive Director for Service Operations, who gave an overview of The Resource Center’s clinical services and how they performed in 2018. While The Resource Center’s core mission is to support people with disabilities, TRC also provides a range of health and behavioral health services that are available to anyone in the community. Before the meeting began, Heather and other clinical staff provided tours of the recently renovated TRC Community Health Center, which offers primary health care, dental services and counseling services.

Heather told the audience TRC offers health services at four locations – on Second Street and Jones & Gifford Avenue in Jamestown; at Jamestown High School; and on Lake Shore Drive in Dunkirk. She said The Resource Center has more than 100 health care professionals on staff, and that last year 10,519 patients were served at TRC.

“Just about 200 people daily enter this location between all the services when we have a full complement and array of providers,” Heather said.

The Resource Center is a not-for-profit organization that has been supporting people with disabilities in Chautauqua County for 60 years. In addition, TRC performs subcontracting work for local businesses and the federal government at manufacturing centers in Dunkirk and Jamestown. For more information, phone 483-2344 or visit www.resourcecenter.org.

On Thursday, June 13, you can join the Dream Team and make a real difference in the lives of people with disabilities.

June 13 will be the second annual #Give Big CHQ, an opportunity for local non-profit organizations to collect online donations from their supporters. The Resource Center is partnering with Filling the Gap, Inc., to raise money for our “Dream On” Kathy Seastedt Memorial Fund. The fund, named for a 25-year TRC employee who died in 2008, provides money to people with disabilities who have urgent needs. For the 2017-18 fiscal year, we spent $20,292.22 to assist 89 people, which averages out to about $228 per person.  And in the case of those who needed help with their rent or utilities, the Dream On Fund enabled about 30 people to keep a roof over their heads or keep the lights on.

#Give Big CHQ is being organized by the Chautauqua Region Community Foundation and the Northern Chautauqua Community Foundation. To spur some friendly competition among the 100 non-profits participating in #Give Big CHQ, cash prizes will be awarded to the organizations that raise the most money and have the most donors during the fund drive, which runs from 12:00 a.m. to 11:59 p.m. There also will be cash prizes awarded to the organizations that raise the most money during designated hours that day. That’s why we’re asking people to make a donation between 9:00 and 10:00 a.m. during the “Morning BUZZ Power Hour.”

Please support the “Dream On” Fund by making a donation on Thursday, June 13. Visit www.givebigchq.org/organizations/filling-the-gap-inc to make your donation and learn more about the “Dream On” Fund. Below are some examples of people who have been assisted by the fund.

Dan Gage took a big step last fall when he headed off to Mercyhurst University for his freshman year. Dan is on the autism spectrum, and he and his family realized he would need special supports in order to have a successful college experience – this was going to be his first time away from home, and social situations were stressful for him. Dan received money from the “Dream On” Fund to enroll in the university’s AIM (Autism Initiative at Mercyhurst) program, which assists people with autism to successfully adjust to college life and to thrive in the college environment. Dan, who is majoring in music therapy, enjoyed his first year at Mercyhurst and is looking forward to returning to school this fall. He credits the AIM program with giving him a positive college experience, and he is grateful to the “Dream On” Fund for helping him to be able to enroll in the program.

 

 

 

Living most of her life in New York City, Ada R. used English Sign Language to communicate. But when she moved to Dunkirk several years ago, she discovered that deaf people in Western New York use American Sign Language. Ada was in a bind — she was living in an unfamiliar place, and she was experiencing difficulty communicating with others. The “Dream On” Fund gave Ada money so she could take classes in American Sign Language. Now Ada can communicate better with others.

 

 

 

After her mom passed away, Rosalie R. of Dunkirk wanted to spend time with her mother’s sister, who lives in DuBois, PA. But Rosalie didn’t have enough money to buy a bus ticket to and from DuBois. The “Dream On” Fund paid for the trip, and Rosalie was able to spend quality time with her aunt.

 

 

 

 

 

Dan Chadwick recently moved in with his mom to help take care of her. But he soon got tired of sleeping on an inflatable mattress. With money received from the “Dream On” Fund, Dan was able to buy a futon bed, a comforter and a blanket. Dan now enjoys comfortable nights sleeping on his own bed.

 

 

 

 

Each summer, about 70 people with intellectual and developmental disabilities get to spend a few days at Camp Onyahsa, participating in the fun activities that camp has to offer. For many people, the annual Camp Onyahsa experience is the highlight of summer. But occasionally, people need assistance in covering the cost of attending camp. Last year, the “Dream On” Fund provided financial assistance to four people so they could attend camp. One of those people was Matt Baran. Matt likes the food they serve at camp, and he really enjoys the experience of sleeping in a cabin. His favorite activities are singing songs, attending the campfire and going on the pontoon boat. And Matt, who enjoys working, had this to say: “I like camp better than going to work.”

 

 

 

 

Golfers didn’t let cool and windy conditions keep them from enjoying a great day on the course at the 23^rd annual TRC Golf Classic, held May 20 at Moon Brook Country Club near Jamestown.

Twenty-four foursomes competed in the four-ball, two-best-ball format. Winning the tournament was the team of Anthony Brothers, William Brothers, Eric Fire, and Joe Fire. For finishing first, they each received a print of a painting made by a person with intellectual and developmental disabilities in The Resource Center’s Creations Art Program. They also will have their names engraved in the champions’ trophy, which is called The Gregg Bender Cup in honor of the retired TRC employee and former longtime Chair of the TRC Golf Classic Steering Committee.

Once the tournament concluded, the traditional Special Olympics putting contest took place. Twenty-two athletes participated, with each Special Olympian getting three chances to make a lengthy putt. Three golfers hit a ball into the cup (and several others came close), requiring a putt-off among the trio to determine the winner. In the end, TJ McDonnell put his putt closest to the hole, so he won the competition.

Following a delicious buffet dinner prepared by Moon Brook staff, awards were presented to the top teams in the tournament, and prize drawings were held.

Again this year, Lake Shore Savings was the Tournament Sponsor. Other major sponsors were KeyBank, the Winifred Crawford Dibert Foundation, HM Insurance Group, Premier Consulting Associates, ALSTAR EMS, Barclay Damon, Brand and Oppenheimer, Jamestown Container Companies, Lutheran Jamestown, The Post-Journal, and Support Enterprises, Inc. Other sponsors included Artone, Buffalo Hospital Supply, Collaborative Educational Solutions, Conrad Office Products, Courier Capital, SM Cristall, Dahlstrom Roll Form, Enterprise Fleet Management, Evans Agency, FSC Systems, Fredonia Beaver Club, Graf Realty, Jamestown Awning, Jamestown Macadam, Johnston Paper, Kinley Corporation, LaBella Associates, Lynn Development Group, M.J. Foley Co., Pharmacy Benefits Dimension, Phillips Lytle, Saxton, Kocur & Associates, Shults Auto Group, Stuart Tool & Die, Truck-Lite, USI Insurance, Weber Knapp, and The Resource Center’s Executive Management Team. Lake Shore, Jamestown Container and Premier have been tournament sponsors for each of the event’s 23 years.

The TRC Golf Classic’s success is due in large part to the efforts of its Steering Committee. This year’s committee consisted of Chris Anderson, Chair; Gregg Bender, Chair Emeritus; Victoria Trass Bardo, Daniel Bender, Adam Dimitri, Todd Frangione, R. Michael Goldman, Esq., Mary Johnson, Mike Kaye, Ron Sellers, Bruce Stanton, Jason Stronz, Timur Tyra, Tad Wright, Esq., and Gary Yager.

Also critical to the tournament’s success were the contributions of its volunteers: Abby Adam, Kevin Anderson, Kayla Bohall, Theresa Butts, Ashley Hammond, Michelle Pattison, Cindy Phillips, Karen Silzle, Jennifer Yost, and Jane Young.

“Even though the weather was less than desirable, our 23^rdaAnnual TRC Golf Classic was yet another wonderful success,” said Chris Anderson, who in addition to being the Tournament Chair is TRC’s Marketing & Development Project Manager and Internet Systems/Ecommerce Administrator. “For the third straight year, we anticipate we will clear $50,000 in net proceeds. That brings our 23-year total to over $1.6 million.  The success of this tournament would not be possible without our generous and committed sponsors as well as the many volunteers who give countless hours to help make a difference in people’s lives.”

We thank everyone who made the 2019 TRC Golf Classic a success! Mark your calendars for next year’s tournament, which will take place May 18.

The second annual Shake, Rumble & Roll motorcycle poker run will take place June 1 to raise money to support services for people who have a traumatic brain injury or post-traumatic stress disorder.

The event is being coordinated by The Resource Center and Filling the Gap, Inc. Participants will meet at The Resource Center’s administrative offices, 200 Dunham Avenue in Celoron, between 8:00 and 10:00 to check in and draw a playing card. Following a blessing of the bikes, participants will head off on a route that will take them to stops in Randolph, Ellicottville and Gowanda before finishing at Sunset Bay Beach Club in Silver Creek, where a victory celebration will be held from 2:30 to 5:00 featuring the Kokomo Time Band.

Riders will select cards at each location. The person with the best five-card hand will win $500, while the person with the best three-card hand will win $300.

The entry fee is $20 per person. Click here to register. Money raised through the event will support programs that New Vision Services and The Resource Center offer to people with TBI or PTSD.

New Vision Services is a Jamestown-based non-profit organization that provides supports to people in Chautauqua, Cattaraugus and Erie counties so they can live at home rather than move into a long-term care facility. For people with a traumatic brain injury, New Vision offers service coordination, home and community support services, independent living skills training, community integration counseling, and positive behavioral support services. A TBI can be caused by incidents such as a stroke, an aneurysm or a car accident.

In addition to supporting services that benefit people with a TBI, money raised through the poker run will support activities that assist people with post-traumatic stress disorder. According to the Anxiety and Depression Association of America, some 7.7 million adults (3.5 percent of the U.S. population) are affected by PTSD. PTSD can occur in people who have experienced or witnessed a traumatic or life-threatening event such as war, natural disaster, physical assault, or sudden death of a loved one.

The Resource Center offers supports for people with PTSD, including a group that uses art therapy and creative writing to explore new ways to process their individual trauma.

Organizers of Shake, Rumble & Roll are hoping for a good turnout from motorcyclists and others who want to support people with TBI and PTSD. People who don’t ride in the poker run are welcome to attend the party at Sunset Bay.

“This event supports services provided for individuals with traumatic brain injury or post-traumatic stress disorder and the behaviors associated with those conditions,” said Victoria Trass Bardo, the Development and Events Manager for Filling the Gap. She added that while The Resource Center is well known for the services it offers to people with behavioral health challenges, not everyone is familiar with the supports New Vision Services can provide to people with TBI and others requiring long-term care.

“Many people in our community who have these conditions don’t know that we are here to help,” Vicky said. “Along with being a fund-raiser and awareness builder, we hope Shake, Rumble and Roll will offer a great deal of fun for the drivers and riders. We hope to see many bike enthusiasts come out and enjoy our scenic route, fellowship and a chance to win some awesome prize money.”

Sponsors of the event include Brown & Brown Insurance, FSC Systems, Greater Chautauqua Federal Credit Union, Hector’s Powersports, Premier Consulting Associates, Real Estate Advantage, Saxton Kocur & Associates, and Smith Boys of Chautauqua. Additional sponsorship opportunities are available. For more information, phone Vicky at (716) 661-1477.