So many times we hear “Oh! Cassadaga has a lake?!” It is shocking to us because the chain of three lakes are a core part of everyday living for those of us who call Cassadaga home. They continually feed our senses with indescribable sunsets and sunrises, billowing rising mists and dancing rain drops, sightings of herons and eagles overhead and frogs, jumping fish, beavers and turtles off your bow. The silent meandering of kayaks, canoes and fishing boats leave rippling trails and, in the winter, footprints and silhouettes of deer, foxes and coyotes crossings leave their trails in the blowing blanket of snow. And in the Fall, there is little as spectacular as the mirrored reflection of intense skies and vibrant foliage. Even after sundown the lakes give us a symphony of peepers, bull frogs and night owls as the stars and moon bounce back off the black waters. These ever-present natural wonders are a living treasure.

As if this natural beauty is not enough, the lakes are a playground for all kinds of fun, entertaining and educational activities. Each season has its own way of getting residents and visitors out on the water for the sheer joy of it! Tapping your feet and singing along to band concerts on the beach’s floating stage, taking yourself to the extreme and being cheered on by a beach full of spectators as you take a polar dip into the freezing waters, going all out decorating your vessel in hopes of winning a coveted prize ribbon in the boat parade, cheering your designated ducky down the outlet at the ducky derby, hoping for the “big” one in the youth and bass fishing tournaments, and giving it your best try as you push through the swim leg of a triathlon are all some of the regular happenings on our lakes.

The lakes just about have it all covered and we do our best as a community to protect their health and safety for the lasting enjoyment of generations to come. The DEC launch, the Everwild Land Trust Cassadaga Lakes Nature Park on Route 60 and the public beach provide local access, and more and more, it is easier to get yourself or your boat into the water so that you can experience being one with the waters.

Good stewardship of the lakes is critical. Financially the lakes are supported through area municipality stipends, grants and membership to the Cassadaga Lakes Association. Each year, there is sustaining membership and gracious donations of time and money that ensure the lakes get the attention and priorities they deserve. Obviously, the investment is priceless.

So, if you are one of those who asks “Cassadaga has lakes?” give yourself a gift, break away for an hour or a day or a week and treat yourself to the peaceful, picturesque offerings of the Cassadaga Lakes. You will not regret it and in fact, we dare say you will keep them in mind for return trips!

Photos Credit: Nancy Wickmark

Rural populations want to be, and are, part of a group, a community, where we are heard and feel the connection with our neighbors. The Seymour Library (Mary E. Seymour Memorial Free Library and Cassadaga Branch), with locations in Stockton and Cassadaga, recognizes this desire for connection and works diligently to create community and draw in the members of both communities. It is our desire to be the first place people think of when they need a resource, be it information or a safe place to work or meet.

In a county with a dwindling population, a concerted effort is required to grow our community, and Cassadaga library. Beyond population, there are several drivers of change shaping the future of rural communities, including internet connectivity, education, economic development, and creation of place. Libraries have been on the forefront of these areas. The Seymour Library is determined to become an even more integral part of the community and its growth by embracing all of those things listed.

As active community member Nancy Wickmark says: “Our local library, in the heart of our little village, naturally brings us together and nurtures a sense of belonging and collaboration around exploration and education within our community.”

Residents of Stockton and Cassadaga are proud of their communities and work to build connection. The Seymour Library recognizes this connection and works to reinforce that bond. As Seymour Library director, I take the local relationship seriously and to that end am on several community committees; Citizens for a Better Cassadaga, Main Street Master Plan, and Cassadaga Business Alliance.

Through the business alliance, I have made active connections with Witco (King Kone, Fermentation Station, and Valero Gas, et al), 3 Lakes Café, and Cassadaga Hook and Paddle, forming partnerships with them all. From these connections, classes, story times, reading and craft events, and other upcoming events have resulted. This summer, the library board supported the library at the Floating Stage Concerts.

Local business owners share their skills in classes on power tools for women, yoga, chair yoga, sewing and more. Offers of more classes and events have been made that we expect to offer soon. There is truly great wealth of knowledge here, along with a generosity of spirit to share that knowledge.

The Seymour reaches out to other organizations in the area to expand the services and opportunities available. The local Job Corps built and installed a Little Free Library; a Medicare consultant works with patrons, and there are supervised visitations, to name a few.

In this rural scenario, seniors in particular may be held back by transportation issues and be unaware of what is available. To remediate this, the Seymour Cassadaga will hold a Community Resource Event later this year. This event will have representatives from many of the Chautauqua County organizations that serve us, but are not accessible to those without transportation. We also offer a series of classes by the library and the Alzheimer’s Association, in addition to Alzheimer’s activity kits, which can be checked out.

The Seymour Library is proud to be a member of this village. Please stop by and join our community!

When Cassadaga’s first settlers began arriving in around 1808, they noticed several unusual formations underneath the old growth trees that filled the land. The formations appeared to be manmade, but by whom? The indigenous populations that were here in the 1700s claimed no connection to the culture that made the mounds and breastworks and referred to them as the “ancient ones.” Speculation that they were made by earlier European settlers could not be substantiated from any historical records.

Of all the other mounds located throughout Chautauqua County, Cassadaga had the most extensive remains, found all around the lakes and on the peninsula. The larger mounds ranged in size from 115 feet in diameter to 82 feet in diameter and were twelve feet tall. Some were connected by breastworks that appeared to be raised roadways that enclosed several acres of land.

In the early 1990s, the wonderful Cassadaga Historian Willard “Record” Barris invited me to take a tour of the mound sites around his community. I had studied the Mound Builders of south central Ohio and was fascinated to learn that there were mounds in Chautauqua County as well. Record was born in 1905 and knew so much about the county’s history and prehistory. We spent an afternoon driving around Cassadaga while he pointed out locations where mounds had once stood and where the remains of mounds could be found underneath houses and plowed fields. Unfortunately, I was the chauffeur for the excursion so I couldn’t take notes and was too foolish to record Mr. Barris. What a loss!

Fortunately, the Elial T. Foote Papers, housed at the Chautauqua County Historical Society in Westfield, include information about Cassadaga’s mounds, as well as correspondence between Foote and some of the area’s original settlers. Foote’s papers were used by Andrew Young to write the History of Chautauqua County, published in 1875. It tells us that a mound at the north end of the lake was excavated in 1822 — not a scientific excavation by any means. Still, it is fascinating to think that the pioneer settlers recognized that the mounds were unique features and that they took the time to explore them while still trying to clear their land, build cabins, and plant crops. The mound opened in 1822 contained a mass burial, and caches of grave goods. I suspect many local families had keepsakes from the mounds that were opened when fields were plowed or foundations were dug.

We are so fortunate that Elial Foote had the foresight to start collecting county history while the county was still in its infancy. Foote solicited accounts of settlers’ travels to the county and building their homesteads. Without these first hand accounts, would we realize the hardships they endured, and the very real perils of traveling to the wilderness of western New York?

Ichabod Fisher came to Cassadaga from Oneida County in 1808. He, like many others, traveled down the shore of Lake Erie from Buffalo because there were no roads or bridges across the many streams that fed into the lake. After spending the first few winters back in Oneida County, Ichabod returned again in 1812 with a load of leather for Leverette Barker of Fredonia. Traveling along the lakeshore was perilous enough, but we were now at war with England. A boat from Canada (British territory) accosted Fisher, plundered his wagon and took everything but the clothes on his back and his ox team, probably because the team wouldn’t fit in their boat. Sometimes wagons got mired in the sand, or a fast moving storm brought waves crashing into them. The Fisher family settled along what is now North Main Street in Cassadaga and stayed for several generations.

Another Cassadaga pioneer, Obed Taylor, arrived in 1817, having walked the entire way from Massachusetts with a 24 pound pack on his back.

Another fascinating letter in the Foote papers, from the Smith family, recounts their arrival in Cassadaga, only to find that the creek to their parcel was too swollen to cross with their wagon, which included a large iron kettle for making potash. One son decided to use the kettle as a boat and climbed in, attempting to row it across the creek. The kettle ended up at the bottom of the creek until the water level was lowered sufficiently for them to retrieve it.

I would encourage anyone with an interest in local history to utilize the resources that we are so fortunate to have in Chautauqua County. The Elial T. Foote Papers are digitized and available on the county historical society’s website. Other valuable digital resources include the Historic Structures Database and the Anti-Slavery Map, also available through the county historical society (cchsmcclurg.org).

The use of large earthen mounds dates back to the Woodland Period (200 BC to AD 500). Native peoples most likely used them for communal burial of the dead. Mounds usually contained multiple burials and artifacts that were ceremonial in nature. Because there are no written records for this period, we do not know why so much work was dedicated to making the mounds and their connective breastworks, the structure that served as elevated roadways connecting the mounds. The documented Cassadaga mounds were located throughout the perimeter of Cassadaga’s lakes. Most have now disappeared through modern interface like plowing and construction.

The Citizens for a Better Cassadaga are thriving and have delivered since our inception in 2014. For twelve years, we have been bringing joy and improvements to our community. The CBC, became a designated non-profit in 2016 which enabled our eligibility for various grants. Grant awards in the last 10 years include a beautification grant, signage, improved accessibility, security, and playground equipment at the beach, an AED for the Community Room and a grant to renovate the historic bandstand. The CBC was instrumental in securing the walking path around the lake and making our village a “Complete Streets” community. Recently, the CBC secured a large grant for a feasibility study for a multimodal trail to the Cassadaga Lakes Nature Park.

The CBC also presents the summer concert series each year. Our concert series is a huge hit. We present 7 concerts each summer. Attendees from throughout the county and beyond come to witness the quality live performances on our unique floating stage. Some come in boats, some by land. Our local economy is boosted and best of all, village residents can enjoy a true slice of Americana right here in our backyard.

The CBC organizes and presents the annual Winter Festival, the Strawberry Social, the Labor Day Festival and a holiday event dubbed “Light Up Cassadaga” which is coming up on December 5th at 4:00. We plant flowers in Ames Common, sponsor our Farmers Market and support the local celebration of National Night Out. We welcome new businesses. A volunteerism award is given annually to a deserving CVCS senior.

The CBC always welcomes new members from throughout the area — not just within the village. No dues, no membership forms, no pressure.

The CBC holds monthly meetings on the second Thursday of each month at the Cassadaga branch library at 7PM. Check our website www.cbcassadaga.org or our Facebook page for updated information on meetings and events. Feel free to talk to any of our Board members to learn more. Please join us!

The celebration is over. The lights of the new Highmark Stadium have dimmed, the banners have come down, and the Buffalo Bills can finally turn their attention to what comes next.

And what comes next is the Los Angeles Chargers.

Buffalo enters Sunday’s game riding the excitement of a 41-31 victory over the Detroit Lions in the first game played at the new Highmark Stadium. It was a memorable night for Bills fans, but the NFL has a way of making sure there is very little time to enjoy yesterday’s success.

The Chargers come to Buffalo for a 1 p.m. Sunday matchup in Week 3. Los Angeles opened its season with a 26-14 home loss to the Arizona Cardinals, putting the Chargers in a position where they will be looking to get their season moving in the right direction.

For Buffalo, the challenge is different. The Bills have opened the season with victories over Houston and Detroit, and the offense has already shown the ability to put points on the board. Josh Allen has been at the center of it all, including a five-touchdown performance against Detroit.

But good teams cannot live on momentum alone.

The Chargers present a different type of challenge than the Lions. Los Angeles is led by quarterback Justin Herbert, who has established himself as one of the league’s most recognizable young quarterbacks. Buffalo’s defense will have to be ready for a passing attack capable of creating problems if Herbert is given time and space.

That makes the matchup in the trenches particularly important. Buffalo will need to pressure Herbert while also staying disciplined enough to prevent big plays. On the other side, the Bills’ offense will have to continue finding ways to keep the Chargers’ defense on its heels.

There is also something else working in Buffalo’s favor: the Chargers are coming into a Bills environment that should still carry plenty of energy.

The opening of Highmark Stadium was the big story in Week 2. Now the building gets its first Sunday afternoon game of the regular season. The novelty may be gone, but the home-field excitement certainly is not.

The Bills have taken care of business through the first two weeks. Now comes the next challenge.

No matter what happened Thursday night, Buffalo cannot afford to look backward. The Chargers are the next opponent, and they will arrive with something to prove.

For the Bills, Sunday is about taking the next step — not celebrating the last one.

Senator George Borrello joined state and local leaders, economic development officials and energy experts last week at the Upstate Nuclear Conference in Waterloo to discuss the growing interest in nuclear power and what new nuclear development could mean for communities in New York.

Senator Borrello participated in the conference’s Community Impact Panel, which focused on the jobs, investment and other economic benefits that nuclear facilities can bring to host communities, as well as the importance of involving local residents and leaders throughout the process.

Senator Borrello has become involved in the discussion over New York’s nuclear future since the City of Dunkirk signaled its interest in potentially hosting a new nuclear facility. Dunkirk is one of eight upstate communities that responded to the state’s request for communities interested in exploring new nuclear development.

The opportunity comes as New York is making a major new commitment to nuclear energy. The state has set a goal of developing at least 5 gigawatts of new nuclear generation, including a New York Power Authority initiative to develop at least 1 gigawatt in upstate New York.

“Once Dunkirk raised its hand and said it was interested, I wanted to learn as much as possible about what this could mean for the community and our region,” Senator Borrello said. “Part of that means learning more about advanced nuclear technology and sharing that information with the public. There are still misconceptions about nuclear power, and it’s important that people understand how far the technology has advanced and have confidence in its safety and reliability. The state is moving forward with an ambitious nuclear agenda, and my priority is making sure communities like Dunkirk have the facts they need to understand the opportunities, the challenges and what it would take to be part of this investment.”

One of the presentations underscored why nuclear is attracting renewed attention as New York looks for ways to meet growing electricity demand. Nuclear plants can produce power nearly around the clock, generating about 92 percent of their maximum potential over the course of a year, compared with about 15 percent for solar sited in New York. Nuclear also requires far less land. A nuclear facility may occupy about one square mile, while producing the same amount of electricity with solar could require as much as 100 square miles.

“We need to be realistic about what it takes to keep the lights on 24 hours a day, 365 days a year,” Senator Borrello said. “Nuclear produces highly efficient, zero emission baseload power from a relatively small footprint. As demand for electricity grows, that is an advantage New York can’t afford to ignore.”

The renewed interest in nuclear isn’t limited to New York. Interest in nuclear energy is growing across the country, with dozens of new nuclear projects moving through the planning and development process and several advanced reactor projects already under construction.

“Our current and prior federal administrations have prioritized the development of nuclear, which has helped spur the nuclear resurgence happening across the country,” Senator Borrello said. “For communities like Dunkirk, decision making has to include consideration of the opportunities to bring back good jobs, grow our tax base and create economic opportunities that will be here for generations.”

Senator Borrello has also been working to make sure local leaders have the information they need as the state explores new nuclear development. In June, he hosted a “Nuclear 101” forum that brought together local government, education, economic development and business leaders to learn more about advanced nuclear technology and discuss what a potential project could mean for Dunkirk and Chautauqua County.

“No decisions have been made about Dunkirk, and there is a long way to go,” Senator Borrello said. “But this is an opportunity worth exploring. We need reliable power, Dunkirk wants to be an energy community again, and there is tremendous potential for new investment and jobs. We should be doing everything we can to make sure Western New York has a seat at the table as this next chapter of nuclear energy takes shape.”

Chautauqua Striders has announced the start of its On-Track Tutoring Program for the 2026–2027 school year, providing academic support to K-12 students throughout Chautauqua County and beyond.

The On-Track Tutoring Program is designed to help students build foundational academic skills, improve classroom performance and stay on track for graduation. Students from any school district are welcome to participate, and the program can also accommodate post-secondary students.

Tutors provide support in a variety of grade-level subjects, including English Language Arts, mathematics, Earth science, Chemistry and social studies/history.

Tutoring sessions are offered in person at the Chautauqua Striders offices at 301 E. 2nd St. in Jamestown, as well as online. Students may participate in small-group sessions with a ratio of one tutor to up to five students or receive individualized, one-on-one instruction.

In-person small-group tutoring is available Monday through Thursday in two-time blocks: 3:15 to 4:15 p.m. and 4:30 to 5:30 p.m. Individual in-person sessions are available by appointment Monday through Thursday, with one-hour appointments scheduled between 3:15 and 6:30 p.m.

Online small-group sessions are offered Monday through Thursday from 4:30 to 5:30 p.m. and 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. Individualized online tutoring is also available by appointment, with one-hour sessions scheduled between 3:30 and 7:30 p.m.

The registration fee is $65 per semester or $130 for the full school year. The fee includes access to small-group tutoring sessions. Individual tutoring is available for an additional $35 per hour.

In addition to On-Track Tutoring, Chautauqua Striders offers SAT workshops, Regents preparation courses and other academic programming throughout the school year and summer.

The On-Track Tutoring Program has demonstrated positive academic outcomes for participating students across the county, with an average of 92% of students passing their classes during the final quarter or semester of the school year. Chautauqua Striders would love to welcome your student for this semester! Registration is ongoing, and students can sign up at any point during the year.

Families interested in learning more about the program or registering a student can visit chqstriders.org/home/academics/

Chautauqua County Executive Paul M. Wendel Jr. will present his 2027 Tentative Executive Budget next week, outlining a spending plan focused on affordability, fiscal responsibility and protecting the essential services Chautauqua County residents rely on.

Wendel will deliver his annual budget address on Wednesday, September 23, 2026, at 6:30 p.m. during the Chautauqua County Legislature meeting in the Legislative Chambers, 3 N. Erie St., Mayville. The presentation is open to the public, and residents are encouraged to attend in person or watch the address live on the County’s YouTube channel at youtube.com/@ChautauquaCounty.

This year’s budget presentation is themed “Putting Money Back in Your Wallet,” reflecting Wendel’s focus on affordability and responsible stewardship of taxpayer dollars.

“At a time when families are feeling the pressure of higher costs for groceries, housing, utilities and everyday necessities, every dollar matters,” said Wendel. “Government has a responsibility to be just as disciplined with taxpayers’ money as families are with their own. This budget is about protecting the services our residents depend on while making responsible decisions that recognize the financial pressures facing our families.”

During his address, Wendel will outline how the County plans to maintain and strengthen essential services while continuing to protect Chautauqua County’s strong financial position and responsibly manage taxpayer dollars.

“Our goal is clear: provide accessible, responsive and effective County services while making sure we are delivering them in the most efficient, effective, impactful and fiscally responsible way possible,” Wendel said. “Residents deserve a County Government that understands the value of every dollar and works hard to make sure their tax dollars are put to work where they matter most.”

The 2027 budget presentation will highlight the administration’s approach to managing mandated costs, like SNAP and safety net, maintaining essential services and making strategic investments while continuing a record of fiscally conservative budgeting.

Wendel will also unveil key elements of the 2027 budget proposal that are designed to provide greater financial relief for County taxpayers while positioning Chautauqua County for continued stability and growth.

“This is a budget built around the people we serve,” Wendel said. “We are going to continue strengthening the services our residents rely on, protecting our financial position and making decisions that put our taxpayers first. I look forward to sharing the details of this plan with the Legislature and the people of Chautauqua County.”

For more updates from Chautauqua County Executive PJ Wendel, visit chautauquacountyny.gov/county-executive/welcome and follow him on Facebook at @CountyExecutiveWendel.

The Phillips family and the Chautauqua Region Community Foundation announced the creation of the Patricia Phillips Prize for Excellence in Volunteer Engagement, a new annual award recognizing nonprofit organizations that strengthen the community by meaningfully engaging volunteers in service.

The Prize honors the legacy of Patricia M. “Pat” Phillips, whose commitment to volunteerism touched countless organizations and enriched Chautauqua County for decades. Alongside her husband, Jim, Pat helped build and run their family-owned business, Acme the Appliance Store, where she served as vice president. She also dedicated countless hours to volunteer leadership across the community. Recognized as the Jamestown Area Woman of the Year in 2001, she served organizations including the Chautauqua Region Community Foundation, Jamestown Community College Foundation, WCA Hospital Foundation, Crèche, Jamestown Concert Association, Reg Lenna Center for the Arts, St. Susan Center, and many others.

Pat believed that every community is stronger when people choose to show up for one another. That belief inspired not only her own lifetime of service but also the creation of this new award. Beginning in 2026, the Patricia Phillips Prize will annually recognize one nonprofit organization that exemplifies this spirit. The recipient organization will receive a $10,000 unrestricted grant to support its mission.

“Our mother didn’t just teach us the importance of volunteering. She inspired us by the example she set every day,” said Jason Phillips, Pat’s son. “She believed deeply in the power of service to bring people together and strengthen communities. Creating this Prize is our family’s way of carrying her legacy forward by recognizing the organizations that make volunteerism meaningful and inspire others to serve.”

Community members are invited to nominate nonprofit organizations whose volunteers make a meaningful impact. Anyone with firsthand knowledge of an organization’s volunteer efforts, including volunteers, board members, clients, partner organizations, and other community members, is encouraged to submit a nomination.

“We are looking for nominators to simply tell the story of how volunteers help the organization fulfill its mission and strengthen the community,” said Tory Irgang. “The Foundation has established an ad-hoc committee to review the nominations. While only one nonprofit will receive the $10,000 prize, we look forward to the nomination process as a celebration of the wonderful organizations serving the Chautauqua region.”

Nominations will be accepted at crcf.me/phillipsprize through October 26, 2026. The inaugural Patricia Phillips Prize will be presented on December 1 as part of Giving Tuesday.

“We hope the Prize will celebrate the spirit of volunteerism that has long been a hallmark of Chautauqua County and inspire future generations to continue that tradition,” added Jason Phillips.

For more information about the Patricia Phillips Prize, contact the Chautauqua Region Community Foundation at (716) 661-3390.

The Busti Apple Festival will once again fill the Busti Historical Society’s 1850 campus the last weekend in September. “We have continued working on adding more vendor space for artisan, commercial and nonprofit groups to bring more of our communities together, all to improve the two day event,” said Brad Buck, Board President, “the Apple Festival will be Saturday and Sunday, September 26 and 27, from 10 AM to 5 PM each day. And we are always looking for volunteers to help at the event.” New this year is a schedule of events to make sure visitors don’t miss a demonstration, Civil War drill or the restored mill grinding grain. The Hazeltine Library staff are holding a story time both days. The schedule will be posted on the Apple Festival Facebook page prior to the festival as well throughout the festival and in the handouts available at the gates.

The new FREE PARKING LOT area is off of the Busti-Sugar Grove Rd, just south of the 5-point intersection in Busti. From Jamestown, take Forest Ave. Ext. “Please use our free parking lot. Do not pay for parking to get closer, we have handicapped parking and a shuttle to move our guests to and from the parking lot,” said Mr. Buck.

Admission is still only $5, cash, or $5.50, card, at the gate for adults, children under 12 are free. “The Busti Apple Festival is held rain or shine, and we strongly ask that you leave your pets home,” he added, “we are encouraging families to start a new tradition of taking a fall photo at the festival using one of our fall sceneries.”

In the past few years, the Busti Historical Society received grant funding for the campus improvements from the Chautauqua Region Community Foundation and the Hultquist Foundation to fix the parking lot area, add electricity access for vendors and add drainage to the vendor area.

Children’s activities are throughout the festival. From learning how to milk a cow to playing with old-fashioned toys and games, along with talking with the old-time craft demonstrators who are basket weaving, leather working, woodworking and more. The wagon and pony rides are also available for a small fee.

Sponsors for the event are Brad Buck Trucking, Lakewood Runnings, Todd R. Allen Financial Advisor, Morgan Stanley, The Frewsburger, The Bucket, Lakewood Rod & Gun Club, Maple Springs Tree Service and Ecklof’s Bakery and Deli.

Up to 150 vendors will fill the campus from the 1839 grist mill to the new parking area. Over 125 hand-made craft vendor spaces are available with an added area for commercial and non-profit vendors. One area is set aside for food trucks, plan to spend the day.

The festival features many volunteers who will be demonstrating old-time everyday activities that are no longer done by hand. To be a demonstrator, please email bustihistorical@gmail.com. “We welcome anyone that is interested in everyday tasks from the mid-nineteenth century. If you would like to learn any of the tasks, please let us know,” said Victoria Parker, Demonstrator Committee. She added, “last year we asked our visitors to wear their historic inspired costume to the festival, we would like more to do so this year. Over the years our volunteers have dressed in colonial or Victorian era outfits to help set the atmosphere. This year we would like to invite more guests to join us, so break out the hoop skirts and top hats and come join the fun.”

Of course, many visitors come for apples, cider and homemade fruit pies. The Busti Cider Mill is a vendor at the festival selling bags of apples and gallons of cider. The Country Store, which is filled with handmade crafts and food items benefits the Busti Historical Society. And of course, pies, over 200 handmade pies will be available for sale either by the slice or as a whole pie.

The event features the restored 1839 grist mill. The mill is one of only a few working mills left in the northeast. Along with the mill is the miller’s house which is being lovingly restored to its 1846 elegance. Flour, buckwheat and corn meal, all ground at the mill, will be available for purchase. The mill will be running throughout the festival with educational tours available. “The campus also has a museum about Busti history with several hands-on exhibits for children. Even if you have been to the museum every year — this year will be different,” says Joni Blackman, Director, “we have added a shuttle service this year to help move people through the parking area. It looks like a train and is donated for the event by Brad Buck, Board President.”

Additional information can be found on the Busti Historical Society’s Facebook page, facebook.com/bustihistoricalsociety and the website, www.bustihistoricalsociety.com.

Teenage Sex and Death at Camp Miasma (Fri., September 25 at 7 p.m.) is the new horror film from Saw the TV Glow director, Jane Schoenbrun. After years of slapdash sequels and waning fandom, the Camp Miasma slasher franchise is handed over to an enthusiastic young director for resurrection. But when she visits the original’s star, a now-reclusive actress shrouded in mystery, the two women fall into a blood-soaked world of desire, fear, and delirium. Teenage Sex and Death at Camp Miasma is rated R and is 112 minutes long.

Mary Oliver: Saved by the Beauty of the World (Wed., September 30 at 7 p.m.) considers the poet’s long lifetime of work in context, capturing the uniqueness of her world and the natural beauty that inspired her. The documentary features interviews with her close friends, including John Waters, never-before-seen personal photos, notebooks, and correspondence from her archive, and recitations of her work by Stephen Colbert, Lucy Dacus, Steve Buscemi, and Oprah Winfrey. Mary Oliver: Saved by the Beauty of the World is unrated and is 91 minutes long.

Upcoming movies at The Reg include: a free showing of Reelabilities: 25 Prospect Street presented by The Resource Center (Sept. 23 at 7 p.m.) — The Rocky Horror Picture Show (Oct. 30 at 10 p.m.) — Cat Video Fest 2026 (Nov. 14 at 2 p.m.) — and a screening of A Christmas Story (Nov. 21 at 6 p.m.) hosted by one of the actors from the film — Scott Schwartz — who played “Flick.”

Tickets for most Movies at The Reg are $8 in-person at the box office and $10 online (reglenna.com) & by phone — 716.484.7070. Family showings are $7 in-person at the box office and $9 online & by phone. Special engagements are priced differently. The theater and box office at The Reg are located at 116 E. 3rd St. in Jamestown, NY. The box office is open Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays 12-5 p.m. and one hour before movies and events.

The Chautauqua County Partnership for Economic Growth (CCPEG) and the Chautauqua County Department of Planning and Development (CCDPD) are excited to announce the start of a new public art mural at Bemus Point Village Hall, 13 Alburtus Ave., Bemus Point, NY 14712. Chicago-based artist Michael Ferrarell, of Anytown Mural & Sign Co., will begin work at the mural site on Thursday, September 24, as part of the 2026 Paint CHQ mural program, an initiative dedicated to enhancing communities across Chautauqua County through transformative public art.

Ferrarell’s large-scale installation will bring color, creativity, history, landmarks, and local claims to fame to Bemus Point Village Hall. The project reflects Paint CHQ’s mission to celebrate local identity, inspire community pride, and contribute to the ongoing revitalization of Chautauqua County’s cities, villages, and business districts.

Community members and visitors are encouraged to stop by the site during the painting process to watch the artwork take shape and learn more about the impact public art can have on community development and economic vitality.

As part of the project, the public is invited to attend an artist talk on Tuesday, September 29, at 6 p.m. at The Landing at Bemus Point, 59 Lakeside Dr. Ferrarell will share insights into the mural’s design, creative inspiration, and artistic process. The event will offer attendees a unique opportunity to engage directly with the artist and gain a deeper understanding of the story behind the work.

The project will conclude with a mural dedication event on Saturday, October 3, at 4 p.m. at the mural site, celebrating the completed artwork and recognizing the partnerships that made the project possible. Residents, business owners, community leaders, and visitors are encouraged to attend, take photos, and celebrate the new addition to the community.

“Paint CHQ continues to demonstrate how public art can serve as a catalyst for community engagement, placemaking, and economic development,” said Rebecca Wurster, Planning Coordinator for CCDPD and CCPEG. “We are excited to bring our fifth mural to Chautauqua County through the Paint CHQ program. We hope the mural at Village Hall brings additional foot traffic to Main Street and Alburtus Avenue, creates a unique experience in the Village’s public realm, and generates additional patronage for local businesses. I believe this mural will be another wonderful addition to Bemus Point’s quality of life, generate excitement among local residents, and continue to enhance community pride.”

Paint CHQ is an initiative of CCPEG and CCDPD that supports the creation of high-quality public art throughout Chautauqua County. By transforming public spaces into vibrant community assets, the program helps strengthen local identity, encourage tourism, and enhance quality of life for residents and visitors alike.

About CCPEG: The Chautauqua County Partnership for Economic Growth (CCPEG) serves as the main convener of economic development partners and resources to advance key projects that achieve economic prosperity in Chautauqua County. It also serves as the catalyst and broker of resources for advancing economic prosperity efforts and is the central coordinating entity for improving the quality of life in our communities, thereby attracting people and businesses to Chautauqua County to live, work, recreate, and invest. It is an initiative of the Chautauqua Region Economic Development Corporation (CREDC). For more information visit CHQPartnership.org.

At its September 10th Conservation Celebration, the Western New York Land Conservancy presented Chautauqua County residents Drs. Bob and Anne Deming with its Henry J. Kreher Conservationists of the Year Award. Since 1991, the Land Conservancy, based in East Aurora, has permanently protected more than 8,500 acres with significant conservation value in Western New York.

As a James Joyce scholar and literature professor at several universities, including Fredonia, where he served as Chair of the English department, Bob Deming understood how to dig around in the linguistic soil of great books to find meaning. As a certified master gardener in both Ohio and Delaware, he was also expert in digging around in actual soil to grow plants and vegetables, and he loved to instill in others the joy of gardening. After earning her doctorate, Anne Deming embarked on a career that brought her to SUNY Fredonia as a faculty member, counseling psychologist, and administrator. She then left to accept vice presidencies at universities in Pennsylvania, Tennessee, DC, and Ohio — where she retired as the President of Notre Dame College.

This year, their 50th on the lake, the Demings went out of their way to assist the Land Conservancy in its efforts to protect the 311-acre Bear Lake Preserve. But they were awarded the Henry J. Kreher Conservationists of the Year Award because of their tireless, years-long efforts to keep Bear Lake’s rare wetland habitat intact.

Since the last glaciers retreated, this freshwater kettle lake in Stockton, NY has been an integral part of Western New York’s wetland ecosystem. For thousands of years, wetland complexes like the one at Bear Lake have provided habitat to a broad range of plant and animal species, filtered drinking water, and protected human communities from flooding. In New York State, more than 60% of wetlands have vanished, including once extensive freshwater wetlands that encircled Lake Erie. These critical systems have been lost or degraded by development, drainage, and changes to hydrology. At Bear Lake, however, the wetlands the Land Conservancy will protect remain connected and functional.

That is in large part thanks to the work of conservationists like the Demings. During her tenure as President of the Bear Lake Association, the community developed the bio control program that — for more than sixteen years — has managed invasive weeds and prevented toxic algal blooms while protecting native weevils, a vital component of the bio control program. In addition, the Demings have lovingly chronicled the community’s rich past in three books: A History of Bear Lake (2018); Camp in the Woods on Bear Lake (2021); and most recently, A History of Bear Lake, 2nd edition (2025). The Demings have educated the entire region about this wondrous place.

Bear Lake is located within a WNY Wildway corridor that includes the previously protected Land Conservancy properties Floating Fen and College Lodge Forest, as well as two Everwild Land Trust properties, totaling nearly 1,000 acres. The WNY Wildway is the Land Conservancy’s plan to create an extensive series of protected lands that connect the vast forests of northern Pennsylvania to the Great Lakes and link up with the Eastern Wildway. Once protected, the Land Conservancy will turn the Bear Lake Preserve into a publicly-accessible nature preserve. Visitors will be able to enjoy recreational activities like birdwatching, hiking, and paddling.

To learn more about the Bear Lake Preserve and the Land Conservancy’s efforts to permanently protect it, visit the Land Conservancy’s website: WNYLC/Bearlake.

Pictured with Anne and Bob are Andrew Gaerte, Director of Development and Communications; Marisa Riggi, Executive Director. Photo credit: Western New York Land Conservancy

The Chautauqua County Chamber of Commerce has welcomed two new members to its team: Ashlan Davis as Operations Coordinator and Jackie Greene as Director of Marketing and Communications.

Davis will support the Chamber’s day-to-day operations and help strengthen connections among local businesses and community organizations. A graduate of SUNY Jamestown Community College with an associate degree in Media Arts, Ashlan Davis brings experience in administration, nonprofit leadership, community service and communications. Before joining the Chamber, she served as office manager for the Mayor of the City of Jamestown and previously worked as executive assistant to the CEO of a nonprofit organization.

Davis is also a photographer and owner of New Leaf Photography. Her creative background complements her work with the Chamber, particularly in storytelling, communications and community engagement. “I’m passionate about supporting local businesses, building meaningful relationships and contributing to the continued growth and vitality of our community,” Davis said.

Jackie Greene joins the Chamber with experience in marketing, communications, community outreach and relationship building, as well as previous Chamber leadership experience. She previously served as executive director of the Wellsville Area Chamber of Commerce and has worked in communications and outreach roles with nonprofit, healthcare and workforce development organizations.

Most recently, Greene worked with Goodwill Industries of Western New York, focusing on community outreach and enrollment for a workforce development program. She developed partnerships and promotional strategies to connect individuals with employment and training opportunities. A native of Angelica, N.Y., Greene is a graduate of Ithaca College with a bachelor’s degree in communications. Her experience includes social media, newsletters, website content, public relations, event promotion, presentations and community outreach.

“I’m excited to return to Chamber work and to have the opportunity to use my communications and community engagement experience to support businesses and organizations throughout Chautauqua County,” Greene said. “Having made this community my home, I’m especially excited to contribute to the county and help tell the stories of the people and businesses that make it such a great place to live and work.” Outside of work, Greene enjoys spending time with family and friends and exploring Chautauqua County.

CHQ Chamber President and CEO Daniel Heitzenrater said the two new team members bring valuable experience to the organization. “We are thrilled to add Ashlan and Jackie to our staff,” Heitzenrater said. “Their experience and knowledge will strengthen an already dynamic team.” The Chamber said Davis and Greene will play important roles in supporting Chamber members and strengthening connections throughout the Chautauqua County business community.

The committee of the annual Framed in Pink fundraiser is carrying forward the event’s mission in a new way this year. Following the recent closure of a local bowling alley, organizers have pivoted from the long-running Framed in Pink Bowling Over Breast Cancer event to a cornhole tournament scheduled for September 27 at the Celoron Moose, 52 Dunham Avenue, Celoron, NY. Registration begins at 12:30 p.m., with cornhole beginning at 1 p.m. The cost is $40 for a team of two.

Founded in 2014 by the late Sue Lamb, Framed in Pink Bowling Over Breast Cancer began as a bowling fundraiser and quickly became a beloved community tradition, drawing nearly 150 bowlers each year. To date, the effort has raised more than $91,600 with the support of the WCA Foundation endowment’s investment. All funds are directed to care for local women and men receiving treatment for breast cancer.

Proceeds from this year’s fundraiser will support the mammography expansion at UPMC Chautauqua, helping enhance access to breast imaging services and support early detection for patients in the community. Although this year’s fundraiser will look different, the committee is determined to build upon their success through community support, sponsorships, raffles, and other giving opportunities connected to the cornhole tournament.

Sue Lamb passed away in 2021 from health issues unrelated to breast cancer. Today, her daughters, family members, and friends continue raising funds and awareness in her honor. Julie Abramson and her sisters are helping lead the ongoing effort to continue their mother’s legacy. “My mother took great pride in making a difference for patients, helping them live beyond a breast cancer diagnosis and enjoy life to the fullest,” said Julie Abramson, Lamb’s daughter.

Generous donors and local businesses will help ensure the success of this year’s fundraiser, continuing the strong community support that has made Framed in Pink Bowling Over Breast Cancer a triumph year after year.

As family and friends prepare for the September 27 Framed in Pink Cornhole Tournament at the Celoron Moose, 52 Dunham Avenue, Celoron, NY, those interested in registering a team of two for $40, making a financial contribution, sponsoring the fundraiser, or donating a gift basket may contact framedinpink@gmail.com or call Julie Abramson 716-485-8456. Updates are also available on their Facebook page Framed in Pink Bowling Over Breast Cancer.

For more than two decades Audubon Community Center’s Enchanted Forest has delighted children and the adults — parents, grandparents, aunts, uncles, friends — fortunate enough to accompany them.

On this magical, non-scary evening, follow a guide through the luminary-lit trail to meet human-sized animals who will engage your imagination, maybe make you laugh, and teach you something about wildlife in the region. You can expect to be charmed and delighted by the captivating life stories told by the Pileated Woodpecker, Little Brown Bat, Black Bear, and others.

As it is a reservations-only event, now is the time to reserve your slot for Friday or Saturday, October 2 or 3. Starting at 6 p.m., walks go out every 10 minutes and last about 40 minutes. The last walk starts at 8 p.m.

After the walk, stop in the backyard to enjoy a campfire and live music. Snacks and drinks will be available to purchase. Inside the Nature Center building will be crafts, live animals, and exhibits to explore.

Admission is $14 for adults, $10.50 for Nature Center members and children ages 3-15, and free for children 2 and under. Reservations can be made by calling (716) 569-2345 or going online AudubonCNC.org/enchanted-forest. No tickets are sold at the door.

Enchanted Forest happens rain or shine, so be sure to dress for the weather. For protection from biting insects like mosquitoes, long pants, long-sleeved shirts, closed-toe shoes, and insect repellent are recommended. Halloween costumes are welcome.

Audubon Community Nature Center is located at 1600 Riverside Road, one-quarter mile east of Route 62 between Jamestown, N.Y., and Warren, Pa. Learn more at AudubonCNC.org.

There is a new face behind the desk and around the studio at Pearl City Clay House as the community arts center begins another year of classes, workshops, walk-in projects, and creative experiences in Downtown Jamestown.

Pearl City Clay House, a program of Infinity Visual and Performing Arts, is pleased to welcome Olivia Reynolds to its team as Receptionist and Studio Tech.

For Reynolds, joining the Clay House also means stepping into a new area of her own creative work. A graduate of Warren Area High School and current Fine Arts student at Jamestown Community College, Reynolds has primarily focused on drawing and painting and has received recognition for her work in both mediums. Now, surrounded by wheels, kilns, glazes, and plenty of clay, she is looking forward to exploring a different way of creating.

Reynolds plans to continue her fine arts studies in Edinboro. Her artwork frequently draws inspiration from nature, with plants, animals, and other elements of the natural world appearing throughout her work. Outside of art, she enjoys hiking, caring for her houseplants, and scouring antique stores for stained-glass lamps to add to her growing collection.

As Receptionist and Studio Tech, Reynolds will be part of the day-to-day activity at Pearl City Clay House, welcoming visitors into the space while also supporting the behind-the-scenes studio work that keeps its pottery and visual arts programming running.

Since opening Downtown Jamestown in 2022, Pearl City Clay House has grown into a space designed to make creating accessible to people with a wide range of ages, interests, and experience levels. Someone walking through the doors might be trying a pottery wheel for the first time, painting a piece of pottery with family or friends, taking a multi-week ceramics class, visiting a gallery exhibition, or experimenting with a new contemporary craft.

That environment of exploration makes Reynolds a natural addition to the team. While she brings her own experience as a developing visual artist to PCCH, the position also gives her an opportunity to continue learning alongside the artists, instructors, students, and community members who use the space.

Pearl City Clay House is located at 220 East 2nd Street in Downtown Jamestown, across the street from Infinity Visual and Performing Arts. In addition to pottery wheel instruction, PCCH offers walk-in pottery painting and creative projects, classes and workshops, gallery exhibitions, special events, and other opportunities for community members to make and experience art.

PCCH is both a community arts center and a program of Infinity Visual and Performing Arts. Proceeds generated through Pearl City Clay House help support Infinity’s youth arts education programming, connecting the creative experiences happening on both sides of East 2nd Street.

Aspire of WNY and the WCA Home Board of Directors are thrilled to announce the official finalization of the WCA Home transfer. On August 20, 2026, the historic property was officially closed and transferred to Aspire of WNY as a generous gift.

The WCA Home, which unfortunately closed its doors early in 2023, will now serve as a vibrant Northern Chautauqua Community Hub for Aspire of WNY. The “WCA” will remain and the location will become “Aspire of WNY at the WCA,” with WCA now standing for: We Connect All. This naming pays homage to the legacy of the WCA home and modernizes it to fit Aspire of WNY’s nonprofit mission supporting children and adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities. This gift will allow the agency to consolidate its current Northern Chautauqua operations and significantly expand its continuum of care.

“Entrusting this historic building to Aspire of WNY guarantees that our century-long mission of care will not just continue, but truly thrive for generations,” said Lori Poniatowski, Board President of the WCA Home. “When we met the team at Aspire of WNY, it was clear to me, and the board of directors at the WCA, that they were the right ones to carry on an important mission in this home. Seeing the doors open again, with human services being provided to support the health and wellness of people in our community, means everything to us.”

The transition was years in the making. In March of 2025, after plans to sell the historic property were not meeting the vision of the WCA Home Board or the needs of the community, the WCA Board put out an ask in the community: are there nonprofits we could gift the home to for legacy continuance into the next 100 years?

After a series of proposals, the WCA Home Board selected Aspire of WNY, a nearly 80-year-old nonprofit agency serving Erie & Chautauqua counties, to be the recipient of the estate.

“We are profoundly grateful for this gift, which allows us to expand our person-centered services and ensure this beautiful property remains a cornerstone of the Fredonia community,” said Renee A. Filip, President & CEO of Aspire of WNY.

The generous gift unites two organizations dedicated to human services. Community members, when notified of the formal transition after a zoning board hearing earlier in 2026, were overwhelmingly positive. Neighbors of the property in Fredonia, NY showed their support by coming to the meetings, posting publicly online, and sharing letters with both Aspire of WNY and the WCA Home administrative teams.

“This space allows us to enhance community-based services for the people we support,” said Carrie Spence, Chief Operating Officer at Aspire of WNY. “Having a homebase in Northern Chautauqua County gives families in this community the opportunity to see their children receive support beyond what we could have hoped.”

“The WCA Home has the space for us to provide incredible training opportunities to our workforce,” said Melissa Roth, Chief Human Resources Officer. “Our commitment is to provide hands on learning experiences like those they will encounter while supporting people with disabilities. The WCA Home gives us that ‘homelike’ environment, with the space for classes and technical work. We are so grateful!”

Aspire of WNY plans to operate various community based programs from their catalogue, including iXpress art, Supported Volunteering & Lifestyle Enrichment (SVLE), Day Hab without Walls, Respite, Community B.R.I.D.G.E.S (connecting people with real life skills for independence in the community), Vocational Services, ADAPT Fashions (retail style training with opportunities for professional garments), workforce training, administrative support, and much more.

“A gift like this is incredible for our organization,” said Jennifer Ball, Chief Financial Officer of Aspire of WNY. “Without the care, commitment, and community-oriented leadership of the WCA Board, this historic asset would not be what it is today. We are proud to carry on the legacy and are honored to be the partners chosen to lead the WCA Home into its next chapter of life.”

To celebrate this new chapter, the public is warmly invited to Aspire of WNY at the WCA’s Open House to tour the facility, meet the team, and learn about upcoming programs. Please note that parking is limited and street parking, according to rules, is expected. Aspire of WNY hopes to have a shuttle service and will be announcing details closer to the open house:

Date: October 7th, 2026

Time: 5:00 PM – 7:00 PM

Location: Aspire of WNY at the WCA, 134 Temple St. Fredonia, NY

To learn more and register, please visit: www.aspirewny.org/events

The Lakeshore Humane Society will hold its 22nd Annual Pat McGee Memorial Dog Walk on Saturday, October 3 at the Lakeshore Humane Society Adoption Center, 431 E. Chestnut Street in Dunkirk. This event is named in honor of the late New York State Senator Pat McGee who worked to fight animal cruelty and supported the Felony Animal Cruelty Law, also known as Buster’s Law. This activity is rain or shine. Dress-up your dog for this costume walk and contest (but all dogs are welcome to participate, even if not in costume)! There will also be doggie activities following the walk. Please note that, unlike in recent past years, the Dog Walk will take place on Saturday.

Dog Walk check-in the day of the event begins at 10 am. The Walk begins at 10:30 am. Registration is $22. This includes a Dog Walk t-shirt and goodie bag. Pre-registration is strongly encouraged to ensure receiving a shirt. (September 21 is the payment deadline to guarantee choice of t-shirt size.) Registrations are considered as non-refundable donations to the Lakeshore Humane Society. Each dog must have proper I.D. on a collar or be microchipped, be on a non-retractable leash at all times, and have an up-to-date rabies vaccination certificate to present at check-in.

For registration forms, come to Open Adoption Hours at the LHS Adoption Center Wednesdays from 6 pm to 8 pm and Saturdays from noon to 3 pm, or go to the Shop page of the Lakeshore Humane Society website — lakeshorehumanesociety.org/shop.

All ages and members of the community are encouraged to take part in this fun event, while helping the efforts of the Lakeshore Humane Society.

For more information, see www.lakeshorehumanesociety.org or LHS’s Facebook page, or call 716-672-1991.