Researchers Testing Novel Melanoma Vaccine in Clinical Trial

Immunotherapy developed at Roswell Park Cancer Institute exploits immune-boosting functions of ‘heat-shock’ proteins

BUFFALO, NY — A new clinical research study at Roswell Park Cancer Institute (RPCI) will assess the safety and efficacy of a novel immunotherapy approach to treating advanced melanoma. Developed at RPCI by Roswell Park researchers, the investigational vaccine shows promise for treating tumors in patients with stage III/stage IV melanoma, and perhaps as a future therapy for other solid-tumor cancers as well.

John M. Kane III, MD, FACS, a surgical oncologist who is Chief of the Melanoma/Sarcoma Service at RPCI, will lead the phase I clinical trial, which will enroll between 12 and 20 patients over the course of approximately three years. Participating patients with advanced melanoma will receive a series of three vaccinations over six weeks.

The vaccine combines a “heat-shock” protein (HSP) with a whole-protein antigen, gp100. Dr. Kane’s collaborator in developing the vaccine, John Subjeck, PhD, a researcher in RPCI’s Department of Cell Stress Biology, laid the groundwork for the study with his pioneering work in identifying the various functions of HSPs, which normally protect cells by binding to other proteins just long enough to see them through periods of stress caused by heat and other factors. “Although heat-shock proteins act as protective chaperones,” Dr. Kane says, “it appears that they are also very powerful stimulators of the immune system, amplifying the effectiveness of our vaccine.”

The HSP vaccine, Dr. Kane notes, is recombinant, or created entirely in the laboratory, meaning that no cells from patients are required for its manufacture. It can be made in large quantities and is stable for several years. Importantly, he says, “because we’re able to use a whole-protein target, all components of the immune system are stimulated, and the number of melanoma patients who could potentially respond to this vaccine is much greater compared to many other immune-based therapies that target only part of a protein.” No significant side effects were reported from earlier preclinical studies of the vaccine.

Dr. Kane received Rapid Access to Intervention Development (RAID) support for the development of this melanoma vaccine from the National Cancer Institute (NCI), a division of the National Institutes of Health. These highly selective awards provide funding for particular projects, but are not restricted to a set dollar value. They are intended to help new and promising developmental therapies advance quickly to the clinical-trial phase.

This research will be funded in part by a generous donation from the Jennifer Linscott Tietgen Family Foundation, which is dedicated to supporting melanoma cancer research in memory of their daughter, Jennifer.

“When we lost Jennifer at a young age to melanoma, it was earth-shattering for our family,” the Tietgens say. “We knew we needed to do something to make a difference, and the best way we could think of was funding melanoma research projects. The Roswell Park melanoma team has an advanced understanding of this devastating cancer and is working tirelessly to improve diagnostic testing and treatment.”

The study is the sixth launched through RPCI’s Center for Immunotherapy since the Center opened in 2010.

Melanoma, the deadliest form of skin cancer, is the fifth-most-common type of new cancer diagnosis in American men and the sixth-most-common in American women. The NCI estimates that 76,690 new cases will be diagnosed and 9,480 people will die from the disease in the U.S. this year.

The study, A Phase I Trial of a Recombinant Human hsp110-gp100 Chaperone Complex Vaccine for Advanced Stage IIIB/C or IV Melanoma, is ClinicalTrials.gov study NCT01744171. For more information, including details on eligibility criteria, go tohttp://clinicaltrials.nlm.nih.gov/ct2/show/NCT01744171.

University of Rochester Medical Center, Roswell Park Cancer Institute Announce Joint Program to Train Surgical Oncologists

BUFFALO, N.Y. — The University of Rochester Medical Center and Roswell Park Cancer Institute (RPCI) have received accreditation from the Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education (ACGME) for a joint two-year fellowship program in complex general surgical oncology. Surgeons who are accepted into the program will ultimately train at both institutions and, upon completion of the program, will be eligible for board certification in surgical oncology.

Last year, the American Board of Surgery approved a plan to make surgical oncology a board-certified subspecialty, akin to plastic surgery or vascular surgery. The plan requires surgeons to complete a five-year residency in general surgery, a two-year ACGME-accredited fellowship in complex general surgical oncology, and pass written and oral board examinations.

RPCI has had a highly successful surgical oncology fellowship program for decades that is funded by a training grant from the National Cancer Institute. But in order for the program to earn ACGME accreditation, it had to be part of an accredited residency program in general surgery. Roswell Park approached the University of Rochester this past spring, and the institutions submitted a joint application to ACGME.

“The University of Rochester Medical Center has an outstanding general surgery program, and we view this as an opportunity to not only strengthen our fellowship program, but also to strengthen the relationship between our two institutions,” said William Cance, M.D., F.A.C.S., Surgeon-in-Chief and Chair of the Department of Surgical Oncology at RPCI.

“The surgical oncology program at Roswell Park Cancer Institute is nationally renowned, and we think that this joint program creates exciting opportunities for both institutions,” said Mark Taubman, M.D., Dean of the University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry. He added that the partnership may lead to future collaboration on clinical trials, and it may help both institutions compete for research grants.

The program will accept four applicants each year. John M. Kane III, M.D., F.A.C.S., Program Director of the Surgical Oncology Fellowship and Chief of the Melanoma/Sarcoma Service in the Department of Surgical Oncology at RPCI, will continue to serve as program director, and Diane Hartman, M.D., Professor of Obstetrics and Gynecology and Senior Associate Dean for Medical Education at the University of Rochester, will serve as the institutional official. As part of the collaboration, 12 surgeons at Roswell Park who are involved in the fellowship program will receive faculty appointments at the University of Rochester.

Surgical oncologists treat a variety of cancers, including breast, colorectal, pancreatic and gastric, liver, melanoma and endocrine tumors. Because cancer treatment often includes chemotherapy and radiation as well as surgery, surgical oncologists work as part of a team to develop treatment strategies that are tailored to each patient. This multidisciplinary approach has contributed to steady improvements in survival rates for most cancers.

The joint fellowship program is the second formal cooperative effort between the two institutions. The University’s Wilmot Cancer Center and RPCI – the two largest cancer research institutions in upstate New York – launched a research partnership in 2010 and 16 joint research projects, each led by a RPCI and UR/Wilmot investigator are underway. To learn more contact: Jessica Sanderson,
University of Rochester Medical Center, 585-275-3676 or Jessica_Sanderson@URMC.Rochester.edu or Annie Deck-Miller, Roswell Park Cancer Institute, 716-845-8593, 

annie.deck-miller@roswellpark.org

Fitness in the Parks

Sponsored by the YMCA and Independent Health

Sunday	Monday	Tuesday	Wednesday	Thursday	Friday	Saturday
Canalside 6/2-8/31/13 10:00 -11:00 am Yoga	Delaware Park 6/17-8/26/13 9:30-10:30 am Pilates	Town Park Cheektowga 6/18-8/27/13 10-11 Zumba®	Artpark 6/19-8/28/13 10:00 -11:00 am Pilates	Town Park Cheektowaga 6/20-8/29 10:00 -11:00 am Zumba®	Main Street Park Clarence 6/21-8/30 10:00-11:00 am Cardio Dance	Artpark 6/22-8/31/13 10:00 -11:00 am Zumba®
Canalside 6/9-8/31/13 2:00 -3:00 pm Family Recess		Canalside 6/2-8/27/13 Tai Chi 12:00 -1:00 pm	Delaware Park 6/19-8/28/13 9:30-10:30 am Yoga
	Canalside Walks Along the Waterfront 6/2-8/30/13 12:15-1:00 pm		Canalside Walks Along the Waterfront 6/2-8/30/13 12:15-1:00 pm		Canalside Walks Along the Waterfront 6/2-8/30/13 12:15-1:00 pm
	Canalside 6/2-8/26/13 6:00-7:00 pm Bootcamp		Canalside 6/2-8/31/13 6:00-7:00 pm Pilates
	Bassett Park 6/17-8/26/13 6:00-7:00 pm Zumba®	Chestnut Ridge 6/18-8/27 6:00-7:00 pm Zumba® 6/18-7/9/13 Pilates 7/23-8/6/13 Yoga 8/13-8/27/13	Bassett Park 6/19-8/28 6:00 -7:00 pm Zumba®	Ellicott-Creek Park 6/20-8/29/13 6:00 -7:00 pm Yoga

PhRMA, Roswell Park Cancer Institute Announce Release of ‘Research in Your Backyard

More Than 7,000 Clinical Trials Conducted by NY Institutions, Industry Collaborators Since 1999, Report Notes

Buffalo, N.Y. (June 26, 2013) – America’s biopharmaceutical research companies have conducted more than 7,000 clinical trials of new medicines in New York over the last 13 years, working in collaboration with academic institutions, patient advocates, hospitals and clinical research facilities. That’s the main finding of “Research in Your Backyard: Pharmaceutical Clinical Trials in New York,” a new report by the Pharmaceutical Research and Manufacturers of America (PhRMA), which was released today at Roswell Park Cancer Institute (RPCI).

PhRMA spokesperson Kaelan Hollon was joined by state Assemblyman Robin Schimminger, state Senators Mark Grisanti and Tim Kennedy, RPCI clinician-researcher Dr. Myron S. Czuczman and a patient of Dr. Czuczman’s for a press event announcing the findings. Of those 7,000 industry-sponsored clinical trials, the report notes, more than 750 were conducted in Buffalo, at institutions such as RPCI, the University at Buffalo, the Women’s and Children’s Hospital of Buffalo and Buffalo General Medical Center.

“New York is a model for the sort of public-private partnerships that make clinical trials work, and it has paid off — the state hosts more than a third of all clinical trials in the nation,” said PhRMA’s Hollon. “Buffalo has hosted nearly 750 clinical trials since 1999, and continues to strengthen the relationships between local biopharmaceutical research facilities, academia, hospitals and patient groups in the area. Roswell Park Cancer Institute is a great example of this, and today’s report is an exciting explanation of how clinical trials impact Buffalo's patients and economy.”

“Clinical trials give patients access to therapies that rely on the latest medical evidence and the newest approaches — access they wouldn’t have without these studies,” noted Dr. Czuczman, who is Head of the Lymphoma Translational Research Laboratory within the Department of Immunology and Chief of the Lymphoma/Myeloma Service at RPCI. “We have seen many great advances in cancer treatment from the participation of patients in clinical trials available to them at Roswell Park. We’re helping to advance care not just for Western New Yorkers but for cancer patients around the world.”

“When I found out I had lymphoma in 2003, I had no idea what my options were or what my future would hold. Today, my cancer has been in remission for almost 10 years thanks to the study that I took part in at Roswell Park, and I’ve been able to return to the life that my cancer threatened,” said Joseph Buccilli, a lymphoma survivor treated at RPCI. “I learned that there are thousands of clinical trials being conducted in my region at any given time — studies that give hope to so many who have a story similar to mine.”

Highlights of the report include:

Western New York researchers are currently conducting 51 trials of new cancer medicines, many of which still have openings for additional participants. In New York, more than 108,000 new cancer cases will be diagnosed this year, and an estimated 34,240 New Yorkers will die from their cancers, according to the American Cancer Society. 

 
There are currently five active clinical trials for new diabetes treatments in the Buffalo area. About 8.5 percent of all New Yorkers have diabetes, and many of them do not even know it. According to figures from the New York Department of Health and Human services, more than 1 million New York adults have been diagnosed with diabetes, and officials believe another 450,000 cases go undiagnosed.
The Buffalo-Niagara region is home to nine current clinical trials focused on mental illness. In New York, more than 673,000 adults live with serious mental illness, and about 204,000 children live with serious mental-health conditions, according to the National Alliance on Mental Illness.

For a listing of clinical trials recruiting patients and their locations in New York, consult the appendix of the “Research in Your Backyard” report, which can be found at www.phrma.org/innovation/research-in-your-backyard. New York clinical-trial information can also be found at www.clinicaltrials.gov, the trials database of the National Institutes of Health. For clinical research studies conducted at Roswell Park Cancer Institute, visit: www.roswellpark.org/clinical-trials.

A New Potential Treatment for Type 1 Diabetes

A UB research team is testing A New Drug for Type1 Diabetes and They Need Your Help!

by Nitesh Kuhadiya, MD, MPH

Since the landmark discovery of insulin treatment of type1 diabetes has centered mainly on preparations of insulin, but adequate blood sugar control in patients with type 1 diabetes still continues to be a major challenge. Even in patients with an A1c less than 7%, blood sugars are often erratic. This leads to frustration for the patient and the treating physician as new means are being sought to improve blood sugar control for these patients.

In 2011, research conducted at SUNY Buffalo showed for the first time that a once-a-day injection of a drug called Liraglutide (Victoza) in addition to insulin reduced average fasting and weekly blood sugars. There was also a reduction in blood sugar oscillations. Use of Victoza was also associated with a decrease in insulin requirements. Finally, there was a weight loss of almost 10 pounds over a period of 24 weeks!

With the use of Victoza the SUNY Buffalo team has also found similar benefits in poorly controlled and obese patients. These patients had type1 diabetes and an average weight of 212 pounds. This is extremely relevant, since most patients with type1 diabetes are not well controlled, and over 50% of patients with type1 diabetes in the United States are obese.

These results are exciting. Now, the Endocrinology Division of the University at Buffalo is conducting studies to determine the effects of Victoza in local patients with type1 diabetes. If you are interested in participating in this clinical trial please visit www.ubdiabetes.com or call 716-626-7998 for more information.

About the Author

Nitesh Kuhadiya is an endocrinology fellow in the Division of Endocrinology and Metabolism, University at Buffalo. Dr. Kuhadiya is a member of the research team of Dr. Paresh Dandona that is conducting four randomized placebo controlled trials on the effect of Victoza in type1 diabetes.

Be The Match® FREE EVENT! Food and Discounts at Tony Walker to Save a Life

Come to a FREE event on July 16 from 4:30-8:30
You Just Might Change a Life

By Andrew Gaddi

For children and adults with life-threatening blood cancers like leukemia and lymphoma or other diseases, a cure exists. It’s called Be The Match®, and it connects patients with their donor match making it possible for them to undergo a life-saving marrow or umbilical cord blood transplant.

Right now there are thousands of children and adults waiting for a match and they need your help, so Tony Walker and Lenahan Dermatology decided to do something about it. They’ve decided to invite you to a marrow drive on July 16 from 4:30-8:30 pm, complete with complimentary food and beverages from Giancarlo’s. It all happens at Tony Walker Men’s Shop, 5110 Main Street, Williamsville, NY 14221.You’ll also get 10% off any purchases and another 10% will be donated to the National Marrow Donor Program (NMDP).

More important, however, is what you need to know about marrow and blood cell transplants, so here are the facts: 

Marrow and blood cell transplants treat leukemia, lymphoma and other life-threatening blood diseases. More than 30,000 children and adults are diagnosed annually with diseases for which a bone marrow transplant is the only chance for cure. Only 30% will find a matching donor within their family, and you can help by becoming a donor.

A transplant involves replacing the patient’s bone marrow with healthy new blood forming cells that matches the tissue type of the patient.

To become a donor you must be 18 – 44 years old, without any history of cancer, diabetes or heart problems.

Just a simple swab of the inside of your cheek provides the necessary tissue typing information. This is then put into the NMDP computerized registry that records individuals who have agreed to potentially donate marrow or stem cells. From here they are able to “match” potential donors with patients in need.

If you are found to be a match you will receive a call regarding the process. The donor does not have to travel to where the patient lives, as donation can be done locally. Eighty percent of all transplants simply involve donating blood.

There is no cost associated with bone marrow screening. It is completely FREE!

Please consider saving a life by becoming a donor. If you have any questions or would like to volunteer to help please feel free to call Terrie Carbone at 845-8011 or Michael Garbin of the National Marrow Donor Program at 1-888-298-6571 or www.marrow.org

We look forward to seeing you on July 16. It just might make a difference in the life of a young child or a parent who wants to see their child grow up.

About the Author:

Drew Gaddi is pursuing a Master’s Degree in Biology at the University at Buffalo. He is also a volunteer ambassador with Be The Match®. Drew’s close friend was recently diagnosed with leukemia and lymphoma. His physician told him that his only hope for survival is a bone marrow transplant.

Try new healthy options at the taste of buffalo

July 13 and 14 in downtown buffalo

This year’s Taste of Buffalo features reduced fat, cholesterol and sodium taco salad, creole chicken wrap and beef tenderloin napoleon. There will be more than 50 healthy menu items to try from 54 different restaurants, food trucks, and wineries, along with culinary stage competitions, music and more. 

Now entering its seventh year, “The Taste of Buffalo was the first, and remains the only, food festival in the nation in which all participating area restaurants are required to feature healthy menu items,” says Joe Lane, this year’s event Chair. “The Healthy Options program created by Independent Health has been a tremendous success because it offers a healthy alternative as part of the overall experience, and illustrates that food that is good for you can still taste great!”

“Participating restaurants have embraced the Healthy Options program and look forward to offering creative and delicious healthy menu items for people to try,” said Carrie Meyer, executive director, Independent Health Foundation. “It’s often a minor tweak to a recipe that makes it healthier and we’re finding that diners want these options. Eating right can improve your overall health and the Taste offers a great opportunity to try something new that’s healthy and tastes great.”

May Jen Chinese Restaurant owner Sue Leong is one of this year’s participants. Leong works with her chefs to create dishes with less oil, sodium and sugar to help people eat healthier when dining out. May Jen’s healthy option this year is vegetable lo mein. She says, “Offering healthy menu items and encouraging customers to choose these items is our attempt to educate and help people eat healthier. It’s very well received by our customers. It’s what they want and we’re happy to accommodate them.”

Independent Health Foundation has been an integral part of the popular food festival for the past 7 years. This year the top three best-tasting Healthy Options will receive cash prizes of $1,000, $500 and $250 as decided by Taste judges. Presented by Tops Markets, The Taste of Buffalo is the nation’s largest two-day food festival, attracting more than 450,000 people.

The Taste of Buffalo runs from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Saturday, July 13 and 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Sunday, July 14 on Delaware Avenue and in Niagara Square in Buffalo. There is no admission fee, but food items range in price from $2-$4. Tickets can be purchased in $5 increments, and cash, MasterCard and Visa are accepted at the event. For more information, visit www.tasteofbuffalo.com.

Can’t make it to the Taste but want to try some of these healthier menu items? No problem! Visit healthyoptionsbuffalo.com to view a list of all area restaurants that participate in the Healthy Options program, and the healthy menu items they offer. The program is available in more than 90 Buffalo area restaurants and all items are lower in fat, saturated fat, cholesterol and sodium.

Which pets get into the most health trouble at home?

The aspca says 2012 was the year of the mischievous labrador retriever

(BHL) - According to a new list from the ASPCA the Labrador retriever led the pack when it came to cases handled by its Animal Poison Control Center (APCC). The APCC says it handled more than 180,000 cases about pets exposed to possibly poisonous substances in 2012 – and nearly 14,000 of those calls were from worried Lab owners whose naughty pups got into things they shouldn’t have. Topping the toxins list for the fifth year in a row are prescription human medications.

Another discovery: Curious canines far outpaced their feline counterparts in cases handled by the APCC. Domestic shorthair cats were involved in approximately 10,000 cases (second on the list), but canine breeds occupy nine of the top 10 spots on the list. Mixed breeds (8,000 cases), Chihuahuas (4,833 cases), golden retrievers (4,819 cases) and Yorkshire terriers (3,800 cases) complete the remaining top five slots of dog breeds.

"There is no telling what types of calls we will get on a given day at the ASPCA's Animal Poison Control Center, but there are clear trends that surface when we analyze our case data," says Dr. Tina Wismer, medical director at the APCC. "Dogs explore the world with their mouths, so it is not surprising that the overwhelming majority of calls we get are from dog owners. The Labrador retriever is one of the most popular breeds in this country, and evidently they get into the most trouble as well!"

According to the ASPCA, the top five calls into its APCC in 2012 were regarding the following toxins:

1. Prescription human medications: The APCC handled 25,000 cases regarding human prescription medications in 2012. The top three types of medications that animals were exposed to include: heart medications (blood pressure pills), antidepressants and pain medications (opioids and prescription non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs). Many of these exposures were due to people dropping their medication when preparing to take it, and before they knew it, Fido had gobbled the pill off the floor.

2. Insecticides: Insecticides are used in the yard, home and on our animals. While only 11 percent of all calls to the APCC are about insecticides, over 50 percent of the calls to the APCC involving cats are about cats exposed to insecticides. Always read the label before using any insecticide on your pet, in your home or in your yard.

3. Over-the-counter (OTC) human products: More than 18,000 cases that the APCC fielded regarded over-the-counter human products. This group contains acetaminophen, ibuprofen and naproxen as well as herbal and nutraceutical products (fish oil, joint supplements). Many of these products are tasty to pets, and some can be life threatening if ingested.

4. Veterinary products: Veterinary products made up nearly six percent of the APCC’s case volume for 2012. Both OTC and prescription veterinary products are included in this group. Flavored tablets make it easy to give your pet pain or joint medication, but it also makes it more likely for them to ingest the entire bottle if given the chance.

5. Household products: There were more than 10,000 calls to the APCC about household products in 2012. Household toxins can range from fire logs to cleaning products. Some items can be corrosive, while other can cause obstruction of the gastrointestinal tract requiring surgical intervention.

Toxins rounding out the list include: people food, chocolate, plants, rodenticides, lawn and garden products, automotive products and bites and stings. For about a complete list of the top pet toxins of 2012, visit www.aspca.org/apcc. If your pet has ingested something toxic, please contact your veterinarian or the ASPCA’s 24-hour APCC hotline at 1-888-426-4435. Since its opening in 1978, the APCC has handled more than two million cases from worried pet owners

Neighborhood Health Center Renovations Serves Riverside and Black Rock Communities

Neighborhood Health Center renovations to their existing space "creates an unprecedented level of access to health care for local residents.”

The Neighborhood Health Center officially unveiled renovations at its existing facility at 155 Lawn Street, Buffalo that provides health care to thousands of patients in the Black Rock and Riverside communities in the city of Buffalo at an official grand opening event today. The approximate $2 million in renovations included the construction of 18 new patient rooms, a new waiting room and entrance area, expanded space for oral health services as well as $400,000 in technology and related equipment, including electronic health and dental record systems.

The expansion and renovations to the existing space was funded through a $500,000 from the Health Related Services Administration (HRSA) under of the auspices of the United States Department of Health and Human Services, and through a $325,000 grant from the Oishei Foundation and a $25,000 grant from the Cummings Foundation. The remaining funding was provided by the Neighborhood Health Center.

“This is a great day for the local community because our new facility creates an unprecedented level of access to patients who otherwise would have to travel great distances to get their health care or who would not even bother to see a health care professional,” said Joanne E. Haefner, executive director, Neighborhood Health Center. “This project would not have been successful without the strong support of Congressman Higgins and Senator Schumer as well as the generous philanthropy of the Oishei and Cummings foundations. I also need to acknowledge the commitment, perseverance and vision of our board of directors who guided our organization throughout this process.”

A federally qualified health center, the Neighborhood Health Center has approximately 44,000 patient visits annually and provides medical, dental and behavioral health services. The Center serves a population that speaks 41 different languages and provides these services regardless of one’s ability to pay. The renovations to the existing facility expand the Center from 9,900 square feet to 14,500 square feet, 3,500 square feet of which is for dental services and approximately 7,000 square feet for health care services. The remaining space is for administration and staff. The expansion of the Neighborhood Health Center also will create 10-12 new jobs.

“The health care professionals at the Neighborhood Health Center have a long history of providing quality comprehensive care to Western New York families,” said Congressman Higgins. “With this significant investment in improving the patient experience and upgraded technology to include electronic health records, the Riverside and Black Rock communities maintain easy access health care and benefit from the preventative services and holistic health approach that Neighborhood Health Center is well known for delivering.”

“This is a proud day for the City of Buffalo as we celebrate the unveiling of the expanded and renovated Neighborhood Health Center,” said Mayor Byron W. Brown. “I’m proud and encouraged by the dedication of all those involved in transforming Neighborhood Health Center into what we see today. We’re experiencing great success in improving the delivery of health care with our new medical facilities throughout the city, which are also creating new jobs for our residents. This center will continue to serve the Black Rock and Riverside communities, improving the quality of life for city residents.”

“When we took over the Mattina Health Center from Kaleida on Buffalo’s West Side there were some who questioned our commitment about maintaining services at the Neighborhood Health Center,” Haefner continued. “This project sends an extremely positive message to the people we serve that we are not only here to stay but that we are committed to enhancing the care being provided to thousands of city residents who otherwise would have severely limited options for their health care needs.”

Among the other elected officials celebrating the grand opening included Erie County Legislature Majority Leader Betty Jean Grant, Erie County Legislator Lynn Marinelli and Buffalo Common Council member Joseph Golombek.

Award-winning Author and Comic-strip Writer Jewel Kats Visits Museum of disABILITY History

Toronto Native Jewel Kats makes her disability her fortune

Award-winning children’s book author and comic-strip writer, Jewel Kats, will visit the Museum of disABILITY History for a two-day event on Friday, June 21 and Saturday, June 22, at 3826 Main Street in Buffalo.

On Friday, June 21, from 7 to 9 p.m., the Museum of disABILITY History will host “An Evening with Ditzabled Princess Jewel Kats.” An adult friendly interview-style discussion with Jewel will be held where she will speak candidly about her life as a “DitzAbled Princess.” Jewel is the author of the comic strip titled “DitzAbled Princess,” which is based on her own life as a diva who considers her disability her fortune. Jewel’s web comic has become a revolutionary online phenomenon and has over 700,000 fan views. Copies of her comical diary will be available for purchase and signing.

A family-oriented event, the “Your Crowning Achievement” event will be held on Saturday, June 22, from 1 to 3 p.m. There will be a book reading of Jewel’s fairy tale “Cinderella’s Magical Wheelchair.” Children will also have the opportunity to participate in a “make your own crown or tiara” craft activity and take a photo with Jewel. Books will be available for purchase with an autograph session. The event is geared towards children ages five and up.

“Disabilities are a perk. They make you stand out in a sea of ordinary folks. Limitations are just a perceived mindset,” says Jewel Kats, “Nobody… nothing should stop you. You’re entitled to reach for the stars in your very own way!”

Jewel Kats, 34, is an award-winning writer. She’s also one tough cookie! At the age of nine, Jewel endured a car accident. She spent weeks in the Hospital for Sick Children recovering. She has had eight leg surgeries and walks with a hot-pink crutch. Nothing has stopped her from fulfilling her dreams and she is sharing her story with the world. Kats is the author of seven books for Loving Healing Press, including her Mom’s Choice Award winners: “Cinderella’s Magical Wheelchair” and “The Princess and the Ruby: An Autism Fairy Tale.” She is the writer and real-life character behind “DitzAbled Princess” web comic strip, nominee for the Canadian Disability Hall of Fame, former intern for Entertainment Tonight Canada, former teen-advice columnist and was filmed in a documentary for the Oprah Winfrey Network (Canada) Network. Kats resides in Toronto, Canada.

Admission fees apply for both events, which includes admission to the Museum of disABILITY History. Refreshments will be provided at both events. To learn more about Jewel Kats, visit www.jewelkats.comand www.ditzabledprincess.com. For more information about the events or to RSVP, call 716-629-3623.

The Museum of disABILITY History, a project of People Inc., is dedicated to the collection, preservation, and display of artifacts relating to the history of people with disabilities. The mission is to tell the story of the lives, triumphs, and struggles of people with disabilities as well as society’s reactions. The Museum of disABILITY History offers educational exhibits, programs and activities that expand community awareness.

2nd Annual Buffalo LIVING Tour - Condos Lofts & Suites

A celebration of Buffalo's unique architecture, spotlighting one-of-a-kind living spaces of the central city and Buffalo neighborhoods. Special open houses of re-use buildings (six total) plus a special Saturday Happy Hour following the Tour includes a Buffalo food and beverage sampling affair with live music.

Location: Originate at Tour headquarters (or at any of the six locations), Horsefeathers Market & Residences, 364 Connecticut & Normal Streets, Buffalo, New York 14213. Two Tour trolleys travel on a continuous loop, offering FREE rides to all six spotighted condos, lofts, and suites, including the Horsefeathers Market & Residences building.

Prizes for people who visit all six locations at the special Celebratory Happy Hour starting at 4:30pm and going to 7:30pm.

Date: Saturday, June 29, 2013

Time: 11am-4pm. Celebratory Happy Hour at Martin Cooks at Horsefeathers Market will start at 4:30pm that afternoon.

Phone: (716) 553-4061

Web: www.buffalolivingtour.com

Admission: FREE

Buffalo LIVING Tour Guides will be available at convenience stores, retailers, dining establishments, spotlighted sponsors, and the VIsit Buffalo Niagara Visitor's center in the Market Arcade Building, 617 Main Street, Buffalo, NY 14203 or print one at www.buffalolivingtour.com.

The Longest Day - An Event to Raise Awareness of Alzheimer's Disease - June 21

On June 21, 2013, the longest day of the year, dozens of people from the greater Buffalo area will join thousands across the globe to unite in a sunrise-to-sunset event called The Longest Day to honor the strength, passion and endurance of those facing Alzheimer’s disease. The Longest Day is a team event to raise funds to fuel the care, support and research efforts of the Alzheimer’s Association, and to raise awareness about the global epidemic of Alzheimer’s disease. Worldwide, more than 35 million people are living with the disease, and it’s estimated that close to 55,000 of them reside in Western New York. On The Longest Day, teams will gather to participate in activities of their choice, for 16 consecutive hours, to make a difference in the fight to end Alzheimer’s.

In Amherst, a unit from the American Contract Bridge League has raised hundreds of dollars for the Alzheimer’s Association for this event, and will play cards in the Bridge Center at 3362 Sheridan Drive from sunrise to sunset; at the Weinberg Campus at 2700 North Forest in Getzville, staff and residents are planning a number of events, including a parade, crafts and games; Blocher Homes (135 Evans Street in Williamsville) will be awash in Alzheimer’s purple: residents, staff and visitors are encouraged to wear the color, the home will be decorated in purple and will serve purple food throughout the day; and at the WNY Chapter office of the Alzheimer’s Association (2805 Wehrle Drive, Suite 6, Williamsville), staff, volunteers and supporters will make paper chains from 6 a.m. until 9 p.m. to symbolize the link we all share with this disease and the strength we have when we work together.

For more information about Alzheimer’s disease, the local Chapter and The Longest Day, visit: alz.org/wny. A trained professional is always available to answer questions about the disease and association programs and services at: 1.800.272.3900.

Older Adults Invited to "Go Back to School" this Summer! Because the fun of learning never ends!

Specially designed for older adult learners, University Express offers many different topics  - something for everyone!  See this year's catalog at these websites or call 858-7548 -- www.erie.gov/rsvp or http://www2.erie.gov/seniorservices/sites/www2.erie.gov.seniorservices/files/uploads/UniversityExpressSpring2013Catalog.pdf You can still learn!  FREE classes go through August, and include:

Tues.	11-Jun	10am	Victor Hugo, Cheektowaga
Tues.	11-Jun	1pm	Bethlehem Steel Plant, Cheektowaga
Tues.	11-Jun	1:30pm	Never Too Late to Climb Your Mountain, Clarence
Tues.	11-Jun	1pm	Egypt, OP
Wed.	12-Jun	2pm	Mind of Macbeth, Baptist
Wed.	12-Jun	8pm	Vietnam War, Cant Woods
Wed.	12-Jun	1:30pm	Personal Freedom and National Security, Clarence
Thurs.	13-Jun	8pm	Victor Hugo, Cant Woods
Thurs.	13-Jun	1pm	Victor Hugo, OP
Mon.	17-Jun	2pm	Man Speak vs. Woman Speak, Baptist
Mon.	17-Jun	8pm	Man Speak vs. Woman Speak, Cant Woods
Mon.	17-Jun	1:30pm	English Country Estates after WWI, Clarence
Mon.	17-Jun	1pm	Tips for Healthy Aging, OP
Tues.	18-Jun	8pm	DNA, Chromosomes, and Control of the Body, Cant Woods
Tues.	18-Jun	1:30pm	Victor Hugo, Clarence
Tues.	18-Jun	1pm	Turkey as an Emerging Power, OP
Wed.	19-Jun	2pm	Vietnam War, Baptist
Tues.	25-Jun	2pm	Mary Burnett Talbert, Baptist
Tues.	25-Jun	8pm	Red Rubber:  Nightmare in the Congo, Cant Woods
Wed.	26-Jun	8pm	Personal Freedom and National Security, Cant Woods
Wed.	26-Jun	1:30pm	DNA, Chromosomes, and Control of the Body, Clarence
Fri.	28-Jun	1:30pm	Tips for Healthy Aging, Clarence
Mon.	8-Jul	1:30pm	Brainstormers:  To Drive or Not To Drive, Clarence
Wed.	17-Jul	12:45pm	Islam and Democracy, Amherst
Mon.	22-Jul	12:45pm	Protein, DNA and Control of Cells, Amherst
Thurs.	8-Aug	12:45pm	Georgia O'Keefe, Amherst
Wed.	14-Aug	12:45pm	DNA, Chromosomes, and Control of the Body, Amherst
Wed.	21-Aug	12:45pm	Never Too Late to Climb Your Mountain, Amherst

Register for any class by calling the site directly: 

Amherst Senior Center, 370 John J. Audubon Pkwy., Amherst, 636-3059

 Baptist Manor, 276 Linwood Ave., Buffalo, 819-1820

 Canterbury Woods, 705 Renaissance Dr., Williamsville, 929-5823

Cheektowaga Sr. Ctr., 3349 Broadway, Cheektowaga, 686-3930 Clarence Senior Center, 4600 Thompson Rd., Clarence 633-5138

Orchard Park Senior Center, 70 Linwood Ave., Orchard Park, 662-6452

Contact:

Carrie Smith at smithc6@erie.gov or 858-7548    or

Jennifer Mantione | Project Coordinator (Special Events)

Erie County | Senior Services

95 Franklin St., Room 1341 | Buffalo, NY 14202

P:(716) 858-2117 | F:(716) 858-7259

Jennifer.Mantione@erie.gov | http://www.erie.gov