Instructors

Instructor	Biography
	Adam Kowalyk serves as the Aging & Disability Resource Representative for the Erie County Department For the Aging. He holds a Bachelor of Science degree from SUNY Empire State College with a concentration in Community and Human Services-Mental Health. He is trained in Solution-Focused Trauma-Informed Care and is a Certified Prayer Minister through A Deeper Walk, International's School of Ministry. It's been a blessing for Adam to dedicate more than 25 years to public service with the County of Erie, including 21 years with the Department of Social Services HEAP Division. For the past two years, he has served in his current role as the ADRR, where he oversees NY Connects and HEAP Outreach. Adam is committed to advocating alongside his colleagues for some of the county's most vulnerable populations, approaching his work with deep passion and a strong sense of purpose. -Andrea has been employed with Erie County for over 16 years. She has worked in a few different departments which include the Auto Bureau, Department for Social Services, and for 5 years combine with Department for the Aging. She has her Bachelors degree in Community and Human Services and is also certified in Mental Health First Aid. She has worked with people of all ages and backgrounds. For the last 2 years, she has been part of the Caregiver Team and helps facilitate respite services for those caring for loved ones with memory impairments. In her free time, she enjoys spending time with her husband, children and animals.
	Aileen Gonzalez-Marti is a multidisciplinary artist, community leader, entrepreneur, and advocate for older adults whose work combines cultural expression, creativity, and wellness. Originally from San Juan, Puerto Rico, she has been an active contributor to Buffalo's arts and nonprofit communities since 2011. As Co-founder of Los Artistas del Barrio, Aileen has helped lead public art initiatives, community exhibitions, and cultural projects that celebrate Hispanic heritage while fostering inclusion and cross-cultural connections. Through her work with West Side Community Services, Aileen develops and facilitates innovative programs that promote healthy aging, cognitive wellness, social engagement, and lifelong learning. Through initiatives such as Healing Through Art, creative writing workshops, cultural enrichment activities, and intergenerational programs, she uses creativity as a tool for connection, self-expression, and community building. Aileen is also the founder of Luzdtull, a wearable art and design business that showcases culturally inspired ensembles and artistic fashion. Through both the arts and human services, she remains committed to empowering individuals, enhancing quality of life, and helping older adults thrive.
	Alan Nowicki is the Director of Programming at the National Historic Landmark, Roycroft Campus. He has been a teacher for more than 25 years, having taught in every grade level from Pre-K through college, specializing in art and history. A regular speaker at local schools, libraries, churches, and historical sites around Western New York. Recent presentations have included talks at the Buffalo History Museum, Iowa State University, the Folger Shakespeare Conference, and the Smithsonian.
	Biographies for class presenters will vary.
	Amy is Erie County's Recycling Coordinator. She works on education and regulatory issues related to waste and recycling.
	Ash has a background in geology and museum studies, loves most things science, and is a local LGBTQ+ activist. They spend most of their time with their family, looking for cool rocks, and playing Pokémon.
	Brian Dassero began his career as a prosecutor in the Erie County District Attorney's Office in October 2007. For more than 15 years of his career, Assistant District Attorney Dassero has been assigned to the office's Special Investigation and Prosecutions Bureau, which is responsible for the investigation of financial crimes, such as embezzlement, fraud, identity theft, tax evasion, and elder financial abuse. Assistant DA Dassero has successfully prosecuted crimes against senior citizens, including “grandparent scams,” healthcare aide thefts, mail and check fraud, and criminals who posed as legitimate technical support assistants. In 2024, Mr. Dassero was recognized by the Council on Elder Abuse and received their “Exemplary Service” award for his dedicated work to protect older adults, prosecute the offenders, and obtain justice for crime victims.
	Betsy Vazquez-Aradio has been a public health educator for the Erie County Department of Health since April 2022. She previously worked as a NYS COVID-19 contact tracer and case investigator. Betsy has over 23 years of experience teaching science to children and adults. She has spent over 30 years pursuing a clean and healthy lifestyle by using natural products, doing yoga, and practicing mindfulness.
	Serves the residents of Erie County at a certified health insurance counselor.
	Brendan Chella has been the technology training librarian for the Buffalo and Erie County Public Library since 2021 as well as a professional librarian since 2013. Outside the library world, Brendan is a huge Buffalo sports fan and avid video gamer.
	Brian is a resident rock and fossil educator at the Penn Dixie Fossil Park and Nature Reserve. With an extensive teaching background spanning all educational levels—from kindergarten to PhD programs—his primary expertise lies in the geology of Western New York.
	Budd has been part of the sports scene in Western New York since the late 1970s. A graduate of Clarence Central High School and Syracuse University, he worked as a reporter and talk-show host at WEBR Radio, served as the Director of Information for the Buffalo Sabres, and was a sports reporter and editor for The Buffalo News for more than 23 years. He has written 16 books, many of them on local sports subjects. Budd also serves as a Field Timing Coordinator for the Buffalo Bisons, and writes on local sports subjects for the website Buffalo Sports Page. Stu has spent 35 years at WGRZ TV doing sports. He worked in Rochester & Erie Pa. Now Stu does high school sports for WNYATHLETICS, He grew up in Rochester, moved to Erie in 1978 & Buffalo in 1985. Stu went to Monroe Community College and Syracuse University.
	Carol Ann is a retired award-winning math and science teacher, Master Gardener (Erie County), garden writer and speaker, beekeeper.
	Case Management Staff of ECDFA
	While an attorney by trade, Christine Campbell's first love has always been history. Whether she is providing a walking tour, giving a presentation, writing a book or even attending a Bills game, Chris is always fascinated by the history of our wonderful Western New York Community. She has traveled the world but just as Dorothy learned in OZ: there is no place like home. Chris's goal is to share her love of Buffalo's history with others … and of course to one day see the Bills win the Super Bowl and the Sabres win the Stanley Cup.
	A past president of the West Seneca Art Society and multi year girl scout leader.
	For over 10 years, Courtney Speckmann worked at the White House Historical Association in Washington, D.C., where she served as the Director of Education. She holds a master's degree in Museum Education from The George Washington University and a bachelor's degree from Susquehanna University in History with teacher certification in Social Studies for grades 7-12. She currently serves as the Director of Programs and Community Engagement at the Buffalo and Erie County Naval & Military Park and is a member of the board of trustees of the Buffalo Presidential Center.
	"Cynthia Stewart, PhD, is Executive Director of DART Collective and founding Program Manager for the Center for Information Integrity at the University at Buffalo. Stewart is an interdisciplinary scholar with interests across STEM and non-STEM disciplines. She has over 25 years' experience helping multi-disciplinary teams work together successfully. Her previous positions at UB include Director of Administration for the Institute for AI and Data Science, and Managing Director of the UB Creative Arts Initiative. Stewart also served as Director of Strategic Projects at Antioch University Santa Barbara, Assistant Dean of the Clinical Psychology program at Fielding Graduate University, and coordinator of The International Bible Commentary. Recent publications include: “The Emergence of Disinformation as a Major Threat” and Truth Seeking in an Age of (Mis)Information Overload. "
	Dan Wilke became fascinated by mechanical musical instruments starting at age 3. The interest started to become serious and he started collecting at age 9. He obtained his first street organ 40 years ago this year, and has enthusiastically entertained at Buffalo's Broadway Market organ grinding for 38 of the last 40 Easter Seasons. Other related interests include antique carousels, amusement parks and roller coasters. Dan was one of 12 people who helped move the carousel now at the Herschell Museum in North Tonawanda from London, Ontario Canada 44 years ago, and also co-founded the Western New York Coaster Club that same year. For 23 years, he has been a proud committee member and volunteer at the Olcott Beach Carousel Park where he lovingly looks after their two Wurlitzer band organs and operates the carousel.
	Daniel J. Schuller, Esq. is a graduate of SUNY Buffalo School of Law, cum laude, and received his Bachelor of Science from Canisius College. Dan's practice has is focused on elder law and estate planning. At PB Elder Law, Dan continues to focus his practice on estate planning, trusts, guardianships and Medicaid planning and applications. He currently serves on the Professional Advisory Committee for the Community Foundation for Greater Buffalo. He is also a proud member of various professional organizations. Dan was featured in Artvoice's 2015 Buffalo's Finest Profile Series, a series highlighting Buffalo professionals who demonstrate continued excellence in law, healthcare, education, technology, and business for 2015. Dan also was nominated a Super Lawyers Rising Star each year from 2018-2025. He has also received the Avvo Clients' Choice Award each year from 2015 to 2020.
	David Faix serves as a docent and Education Coordinator for the Niagara Aerospace Museum. A retired Social Studies teacher from the Ken-Ton School District, he has had a lifelong passion for education and aviation and holds a commercial pilot license. He is an author and appears in numerous YouTube videos filmed at the Niagara Air & Space Museum.
	Dennis Upton is a retired teacher with over 25 years of performing in the WNY area. He has a lengthy background in improvisational comedy. He works in 5 colleges and Roswell in patient simulation role play with students and the medical profession. He has a real passion for spreading the history of Joseph Ellicott. After Thanksgiving, you can find him in a Santa suit all over WNY.
	Douglas Kohler is a local historian and author who has written extensively about early Western New York. He taught history at Clarence Middle School for 36 years before retiring in 2025. In 2009, he was appointed Erie County historian. He earned history degrees from Canisius College and Pace University and is working on his PhD at the University of Reading (UK), with a focus on the portrayals of race and gender at world's fairs and expositions. As county historian, he helped to develop content for the Buffalo History Museum's Erie Canal exhibit, and he's currently working with the museum on developing the content for the 125th anniversary of the Pan-American Exposition. He also does research and writing for Buffalo/Toronto Public Media's award winning series, “Compact History.”
	Ed Sapienza retired as a Digital Engineering Advisor/ Systems Architect in 2022 after working 37 years for Aerospace & Defense Companies as an Engineer. He received both a B.S. & M.S. in Electrical & Computer Engineering from the State University of New York at Buffalo. Ed has had many hobbies through the years. Model railroading, slot cars, and video games as a kid influenced his decision to become an engineer. His interest in pickleball led him to sign up for a class at the Amherst Senior Center where he found out about our University Express. Ed also discovered meetups to help find others that shared his interests and develop new ones. In April 2017 he found meetups to play board games, which caused him to start collecting and study the hobby. Ed now runs a board game group at the Amherst Senior Center. He is also a pickleball ambassador at the Village Glen.
	Eileen Healy is the current President of the Board of Directors at Explore Buffalo. She has been a docent with Explore Buffalo since 2019. She currently leads 14 different tours, 6 of which she has authored.
	In 2023 Elizabeth Forkl and Andrew Marts attended the Erie county Fair with a few co-workers, we set up a table, had a 911 simulator, and engaged with kids and adults from all over. It was an eye opener to learn that many people are not as knowledgeable about calling 911. This is our lifeline, our outlet for help, and being able to know what you're doing when you need help is very important. So My coworker and I sat there and brainstormed an idea to pitch to our supervisor, and maybe even higher. An idea to teach, inform and educate the public on how the 911 system works. We highlight the technology we use, information the caller may need, and are able to conduct a practice 911 call on our simulator. From this, “Reach Out To 911” was then created, and have since reached over 25,000 individuals.
	Emily Jarnot is a Preservation Planner with Preservation Buffalo Niagara. Through her local landmark research, she has found many stories that do not make a building historic, but make the building fascinating. That is why she created the Dark History series to focus on those untold stories of Buffalo's past.
	Eric A. Deutsch, Ph.D., J.D., is a historian, educator, and mediator based in Western New York. He has taught history and disability studies at the University at Buffalo and San Francisco State University. His research and teaching explore how history, film, sports, and popular culture shape and reflect the way Americans understand themselves and their society. Eric enjoys making history accessible through stories, discussion, and shared cultural experiences.
	Erie County Cancer Services
	Mark C. Poloncarz is Erie County's eighth County Executive. Before being elected as County Executive, Mark served as Erie County Comptroller for six years. Now in his fourth term as County Executive, Mark works every day to ensure Erie County government is focused on its core mission: providing the programs and services that residents and taxpayers demand in an efficient and effective way. Under his guidance Erie County has enjoyed balanced budgets each year along with lower tax rates and increased investments in county roads, parks, libraries, and cultural organizations. Mark's leadership has been critical to passing new local laws covering public health, governmental ethics, and fair housing, while staunchly advocating for women, seniors, veterans, the disabled, and the environment. He is a graduate of Lackawanna Senior High School, the State University of New York at Buffalo, and the University of Toledo's College of Law. Mark currently resides in North Buffalo. Lindsey Lauren Visser: Lindsey Lauren Visser is the City of Buffalo Historian and a researcher specializing in the history of the Western New York region. She earned her Bachelor's in History & Political Science from Canisius University and her MSt from the University of Oxford in Modern History. She is currently pursuing a Master's of Education from Harvard University with a focus on K-12 social studies education policy. She has worked in several of the area's historical nonprofits, including the Theodore Roosevelt Inaugural Site, The Buffalo History Museum, Forest Lawn Heritage Foundation, and the Italian Cultural Center. Presently, she serves as the Executive Director of the Niagara Aerospace Museum. Lindsey Lauren has served on the boards of the Buffalo Presidential Center and Buffalo Niagara Heritage Village and is currently the Vice President of Membership and Outreach for the Niagara Frontier Council for the Social Studies and the Secretary of the New York Public History Trust. She sits on the Erie Canal Bicentennial Steering Committee and the Niagara County 250th Commission and is an active member of the Association of Public Historians of New York State. She has been a writer and contributing historian for WIVB's Daytime Buffalo, The Buffalo History Museum Podcast, The New York Minute in History podcast, and has written several exhibits for area museums. Most recently, she has been featured on the American History Hit podcast with Travel Channel's Don Wildman.
	The nonprofit Graycliff Conservancy, a 501(c)(3) organization, is dedicated to preserving Graycliff, the summer estate of Isabelle and Darwin D. Martin of Buffalo, New York. Designed by Frank Lloyd Wright in 1926 and constructed between 1927 and 1931, the property features Wright's iconic architecture alongside the gardens and landscape designed by renowned landscape architect Ellen Biddle Shipman. Graycliff is located just 20 minutes south of downtown Buffalo at 6472 Old Lake Shore Road, Derby, NY 14047. To learn more, visit www.experiencegraycliff.org or follow us on Facebook and Instagram @flwgraycliff.
	Glenn Fitzgerald is a veteran electronics retail professional and home media consultant based in Williamsville, NY. With experience managing major electronics stores in three states and witnessing firsthand the evolution of home entertainment technology over several decades, he now specializes in helping Western New York residents optimize their streaming setups and reduce entertainment costs, customizing their own cord-cutting plan through his company CTC Buffalo.
	I am the author of 16 books both fiction and nonfiction. I write mysteries under the pen name Anastasia Goodman and novels under Harriet Goodman Grayson. I have worked in business and government. My novels are based on true events including my own growing up in the 1960's, my grandfather the bootlegger and my father's military service in WW 2.
	Harry is a retired partner from the Hodgson Russ Law Firm where he did industrial and commercial real property law and environmental law. While in College he spent a summer on an exchange program for Economic students working in Athens, Greece for their National Electric Company . There he was able to see and visit many architectural treasures. He is a Founding Member of Explore Buffalo.
	Heather has been teaching Earth Science and Astronomy at Williamsville North High School for 20 years. As a lifelong learner herself, she is excited to share with you her interest in Astronomy.
	Mr. Pogodzinski, a native of Massachusetts, is a retired English teacher having taught British Literature at John F. Kennedy High School in Snyder. He was a former president of the Buffalo Civil War Round Table and is an amateur military historian. He conducted the Civil War tours through Forest Lawn Cemetery for many years, and resides in Lancaster.
	Dr. Hex Kleinmartin holds a Ph.D. in Anthropology and a Certificate in Archaeology from the University at Buffalo, where he also earned his M.A. and B.A. His extensive teaching background ranges from university-level Cultural Anthropology and Geography to Middle and Upper School Mathematics and adult Digital Literacy. An accomplished author and illustrator, Dr. Kleinmartin has contributed to the Expansion of America series and various academic texts. Currently, he serves as a Program Coordinator with Literacy Buffalo Niagara, drawing on a diverse professional background in education and administration.
	Sarah Foels has been teaching history for over 20 years and is currently a history teacher at Depew High School. She also serves as President of the Hull Family Home & Farmstead in Lancaster, where she is passionate about preserving local history and sharing it with the community. Sarah enjoys making history engaging through stories, hands-on learning, and historic preservation, helping people connect with the past in meaningful and memorable ways.
	Jacqueline is a librarian and tech enthusiast with over 20 years of experience working in libraries. Currently she works at the Buffalo and Erie County Public Library assisting the public and staff with their computer and technology-related questions.
	Jane Cameron is a Buffalo-based yoga who has trained under internationally recognized teachers including François Raoult, Bobby Clennell, and Judith Lasater, with direct study at the Iyengar Institute in Pune, India. A retired attorney, she brings a researcher's rigor to yoga's history and philosophy, currently pursuing coursework through the Yogic Studies certificate program, a scholarly curriculum in Sanskrit textual and historical study. Her research has examined Paramahansa Yogananda's 1929 seminars in Buffalo and their intersection with the Bhagat Singh Thind citizenship ruling — a case study in how yoga's American reception was shaped by immigration law and race. She teaches Yoga for Graceful Aging at Carriage House Collective and Tosh Collins Senior Center, and Yoga for Sewists & Fiber Artists at Carriage House and Stitch Buffalo. She treats yoga as a living historical tradition, not a fixed set of postures.
	Ms. Harris is a Partner at Pfalzgraf Beinhauer Grear Harris Schuller LLP, practicing in areas of Elder Law/Medicaid, Estates, Estate Planning and Guardianship. She graduated from the University at Buffalo School of Law, magna cum laude and the University at Buffalo with a B.A., cum laude. Ms. Harris is a member of the New York State Bar Association, the Erie County Bar Association, the Women's Bar Association for Western New York and is admitted to practice law in New York State and the United States District Court for the Western District of New York. She is a frequent presenter on Trusts, Medicaid, Estate Planning and Elder Law topics.
	Jeff Schober is a trustee with the Buffalo Presidential Center. A retired English teacher at Frontier High School in Hamburg, he is the author of ten books, including Bike Path Rapist with Detective Dennis Delano. He is also the co-founder of Buffalo Tales.net
	Jennifer Andres is the Director of Consumer Protection for the Erie County Department of Public Advocacy. Jennifer graduated from Daemen University with a Bachelor of Arts in Adolescent Education and received her Master's degree from the State University of New York at Buffalo. She is a member of the Erie County Enhanced Multidisciplinary Team, Fire Advisory Board and Financial Crimes Task Force, and an alumni of the FBI Citizen's Academy. Outside of work, Jennifer protects the community as a Volunteer Firefighter, keeps busy chasing after her two boys, and enjoys camping with her family in Chautauqua.
	Jennifer has been creating jewelry since 2016, turning her passion into a small business called Neon Lollipop. Inspired by the beauty and healing properties of gemstones, she designs pieces that reflect both creativity and intention. Her work has been featured in runway shows and pop-up events, and select stores currently carry her jewelry. In addition to her jewelry business, Jennifer serves as the Health & Wellness Coordinator for Erie County's Department for Aging. She is proud of her Bangladeshi heritage, which continues to influence her creativity and perspective.
	"Jennifer Johnson is the owner of New Sky Wellness. She is a native Western New Yorker and graduate of Canisius College. Jennifer spent more than 20 years working with local health plans, focused on improving the health of older adults across New York State. Now, she brings fitness and wellness classes to adults of all ages at locations like senior centers, libraries and local businesses. Jennifer is a Certified Wellness Coach, Certified Personal Trainer and Registered Yoga Teacher. She lives in Hamburg with her husband, son and two badly-behaved cats. "
	Jennifer Stanek is the former director of the West Seneca Senior Center. She had a long career in education, has owned a wellness business since 2018, and works as a consultant specializing in fractional leadership. She has a BA in philosophy, Masters in Education & Administration, and her doctoral studies focused on Leadership & Policy. She has certifications in personal training, sports & exercise nutrition coaching, and intuitive training/energy healing.
	Jerry Gallagher has been a pigeon enthusiast since childhood. He has raised racing pidgeons and prize winning show pigeons, and has won many awards in both cartagories. He has lectured throughout the state and is always eager to share his knowledge about these highly intelligent birds.
	Jim Bardot is a dedicated educator, lecturer, and researcher whose career has been marked by both compassion and excellence. He has served in multiple academic leadership roles, including Program Coordinator, Associate Dean, and Dean, and has twice been honored as Educator of the Year — a testament to his impact and commitment to lifelong learning. Jim chairs the Senior Services Advisory Board at the Amherst Senior Center and also co-hosts the Center's Ageless Conversations discussion group, a program designed to foster connection, reflection, and meaningful dialogue among members. Beyond his work in education and senior services, Jim has contributed to strategic planning for local heritage and nonprofit initiatives, bringing thoughtful guidance and a steady hand to community projects.
	Jim van Oss retired in 2024 after a 39-year career at Moog, where he led major advancements in aerospace engineering, digital transformation, and product lifecycle management (PLM). He developed an enterprise-wide PLM strategy centered on a “Bill of Information” data model, enabling broad implementation and integration with manufacturing and business systems. He served as Group Vice President and Chief Information Officer, leading ERP selection, IT standardization, and acquisition due diligence. Earlier roles included engineering leadership and hands-on design work supporting the Space Shuttle, Space Station, and satellite propulsion systems. A mechanical engineering graduate of the University at Buffalo, Jim has taught engineering courses and remains active as a trustee of the Niagara Air & Space Museum and a member of UB's Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering Advisory Board. He is also a dedicated community leader, former Scoutmaster, lifelong hockey player, and avid handyman with a passion for learning.
	An avid Chinese Mahjong player, John Chin has instructed many English speaking friends and family members on how to play Chinese Mahjong and most recently in formal classes held at the Grand Island Library in 2024 and 2025. He organized free weekly informal Chinese Mahjong playing sessions at the Western New York Welcome Center. The number of participants at these weekly sessions have grown considerable over the last two years since its inception. Chin is an American Born Chinese from Long Island, NY. He grew up teaching and playing with friends and family. He loved sharing this social game informally with others as a student in college and as a colleague at work during Asian-American Month activities..
	John Harrigan is the former chairperson of the Communication Arts Department at SUNY Erie.  He is the recipient of the State University of New York Chancellor's Award for Excellence in Teaching. Dr. Harrigan has taught at the Project Zero Institute at Harvard University and was a visiting professor to Singapore. John is currently on staff at Florida Gulf Coast University and has most recently been nominated as a Fulbright Specialist in Communication and Education.
	Julie Ruszala (Mz.Fit) Fitness Coordinator with EC Senior Service, Collegiate level hockey and soccer player. "
	Kae is one of the Research Analysts with Erie County's Department for the Aging. Kae and her mom, Marian, have trained their dogs Samwise and Enzo to be therapy dogs in order to give back to a community that has done so much for them. They are certified handlers with RocDogs, a community working dog group based out of Rochester.
	Kathy Contrino, retired professor and attorney, promotes the use of native plants in residential gardens to improve ecological diversity. She has been growing native plants and designing native plant gardens since 1997. Kathy, former Master Gardener (Orleans County), NYS Master Naturalist trainee, and University Express instructor is currently working on her certification in Medicinal plants, Kathy has been recreating the Great Lakes ecosystem on her 14 acres in Akron, NY and participates in the open gardens section of the Gardens Buffalo Niagara. Additionally, Kathy owns and operates the CW Native Plant Farm and CW Native Botanika. Kathy's approach is centered around her clients taking the time to understand their unique needs and preferences. She sources organically grown native plants and herbs from the farm's expansive 10-acre property, while also collaborating with trusted organic growers.
	Kathy Frankiewich is a Nurse Practitioner in pediatrics and psychiatry, retired, with 39 years experience at Children's Hospital of Buffalo. She is also trained in Myofascial Release, Healing Touch, and LuMarion Healing. She has practiced transformational bodywork for over 30 years. It's her passion to bring increased understanding and healing to others. Kathryn draws on personal experience with healing to bring compassion, respect and sacredness to her work.
	Ken is a retired Civil Engineer, formerly with the New York State Department, with over 37 years experience in highway and bridge design. Ken has spent a large portion of his career in the design and implementation of modern roundabouts throughout the western new york area.
	Born in Melfi Italy, raised in Buffalo NY. Served several years on the United States Marine Corps as military police. Served 5yrs with a the Atlanta police department as an officer, gang unit team leader, narcotics team leader, Swat team leader, and a field training officer. Owner and operator of a remodeling company and is currently employed by the Homeland Security Protective service Divison over seeing 18 officers 3 supervisors and over 5000 county employees, along with investigations and Building assets.
	Madeline E. Bosque, Esq., is a Senior Associate Attorney at Pfalzgraf Beinhauer Grear Harris Schuller, LLP. Madeline's area of practice focuses on elder law, including estate planning, trusts, guardianships, probate, and Medicaid planning and application. Madeline graduated from SUNY Buffalo School of Law and graduated with her Bachelor of Arts from SUNY Buffalo. Madeline is admitted to practice in New York State and is a member of the Erie County Bar Association and the New York State Bar Association.
	Madeline E. Bosque, Esq., is a Senior Associate Attorney at Pfalzgraf Beinhauer Grear Harris Schuller, LLP. Madeline's area of practice focuses on elder law, including estate planning, trusts, guardianships, probate, and Medicaid planning and application. Madeline graduated from SUNY Buffalo School of Law and graduated with her Bachelor of Arts from SUNY Buffalo. Madeline is admitted to practice in New York State and is a member of the Erie County Bar Association and the New York State Bar Association.
	Marla is first and foremost a promoter of Buffalo, a preservationist and a history enthusiast. After retiring from the Department of Homeland Security with 37 years of government service, Marla was certified as a Master Docent by Preservation Buffalo Niagara (PBN) in 2005. Since then, she has trained docents and has written and given numerous tours for that organization. She served there as a Board Trustee from 2006-2011 and as Vice President from 2012-2014. Since then, Marla has given a number of bus and trolley tours for Triple A, the Darwin Martin house and Forest Lawn. More recently, Marla has been narrating tours aboard the Miss Buffalo II and, since 2023, she has been giving presentations for University Express. It is through writing and giving tours and presentations that Marla hopes to continue to engage with community, inspiring both an interest and enthusiasm for Buffalo's rich history.
	Matthew is a meteorologist and the Science and Operations Officer at the National Weather Service in Buffalo, NY since the fall of 2024. Before that, he spent 6 years the the NWS office in Cheyenne, WY. Matthew received his Masters of Science in Atmospheric Science from Texas Tech University where he researched lightning flash sizes in thunderstorms and earned his Bachelors of Science in Meteorology from Penn State. He is originally from the Washington D.C. metro area.
	Michael Olear, MSW is a Licensed Associate Real Estate Broker with Olear Team/ MJ Peterson Real Estate. He has nearly 40 yrs experience in real estate and has specialized in helping older adults with transitions since 1999. Michael is a graduate of the University at Buffalo School of Management - CEL and the University School of Social Work Master's Program. Michael has also served on a variety of boards including the Network in Aging, the Alzheimer's Association Board, the Ashford Hollow Foundation and the University of Buffalo School of Management.
	"Judge Buchanan was elected to a 10 year term as an Erie County Family Court Judge, and appointed as a Judicial Hearing Officer in the 8 counties of WNY. He presided over cases involving Child Custody and Visitation, Abuse and Neglect, Domestic Violence, Juvenile Justice, Child Support, Paternity and Adoption. He created a Nationally recognized program to divert youth from detention. He was a Law Clerk to NYS Supreme Court Justice for 14 years. He is a Volunteer Mediator for Child and Family Services."
	As a fiduciary wealth manager, Paul helps individuals and families design personalized financial plans that reflect their goals, values, and evolving life stages. With 13 years in the financial industry after a prior career in sports marketing, he brings a client-first philosophy to every relationship. Originally from Fairport, NY, Paul now lives in Lancaster with his wife and two sons.
	Peggy Koppman is a Master Gardener of Erie County
	Phil Stevens retired in 2019 after 48 years in the Anthropology Department at the University at Buffalo, State University of New York. He received his B.A. in English from Yale in 1963, then served with the Peace Corps in Nigeria for three years. Those experiences brought him into anthropology, and he and received his Ph.D. from Northwestern University in 1973. He has conducted anthropological research in West Africa and the Caribbean. He is the author of many publications in cultural anthropology and African studies. Among his honors are two awards for excellence in teaching, and an African chieftaincy title! One of his most popular courses at UB was on the anthropology of Magic, Sorcery, and Witchcraft; and his book on that topic was published in 2024 by Routledge. He lectures frequently to community groups on subjects of current concern.
	She is a retired high school teacher from Barcelona (Spain). She has also taught Spanish in England and Illinois.
	Rachelle is a lifelong learner, reader and traveller. She has written 11 books, often collaboratively. A bonafide Millard Fillmore expert and biographer, she decided on retirement to visit all the presidential homes in order to expand her understanding of American history.
	Renee Pratt is the Outreach Coordinator for the Center for Elder Law and Justice. She is always excited to meet older adults in the community and share connections with her agency. Renee is eager to explore ways to hell older adults budget and save money.
	Rhonda Hoffman is the genealogy specialist with the Buffalo and Erie County Public Library's Special Collections Department. She holds a bachelor of arts in history from SUNY Geneseo and a master of library science from the University at Buffalo. Rhonda is the education columnist for the Association of Professional Genealogists Quarterly. Rhonda serves on the board of the Western New York Genealogical Society and is a member of the National Genealogical Society's Delegate Council Steering Committee. In 2024, she was honored by the New York Genealogical and Biographical Society as part of its Preservation in Action series, which spotlights leaders and trailblazers whose innovative work inspires, educates, and has a lasting impact on the genealogy and family history field.
	Rick Falkowski has written five books about Buffalo History and Music. In addition to giving talks throughout Western New York for the past decade, he is the creator and organizer of the WNY Author's Alliance Salon & Soiree events at area restaurants, nightclubs and private clubs. He is also the founder of the Buffalo Music Hall of Fame, Buffalo Music Awards, former publisher of Buffalo Backstage Magazine, assistant curator of the new Cheektowaga Historical Association Museum, coordinator of Tonawandas Gateway Harbor Concerts, a UB graduate, USAF Veteran, Time Warner retiree and owner of Buffalo History Books.
	Robb Poloncarz, otherwise known as the Bucket Hat Chef who is currently working as a Nutritional Coordinator for Erie County Office for the Aging. Robb has 30 plus years of commercial kitchen cooking experience and running resturants. He has spent many years traveling abroad, learning & studying cultural cuisine.
	Robert Lowell Goller is a public historian and former journalist who has served as the town and village historian in East Aurora, N.Y., since 2007. Through his books, monthly newspaper column and weekly videos on Facebook and YouTube, he uncovers previously untold stories of the past and places the history of small towns such as East Aurora in the context of national and international events. His television appearances have included C-SPAN and “Sunday Morning” on CBS. He has written several books and articles on the history of East Aurora. Since 2005, he has donned his signature top hat as the master of ceremonies of East Aurora's annual Christmas Carolcade, a role he has reprised for appearances in holiday movies, including “A Royal Christmas Engagement” in 2020, and the Hallmark Channel's “Holiday Touchdown: A Bills Love Story” in 2025.
	Rose Ann grew up in Western New York and spent her summer vacations traveling with her family to local amusement parks, in particular Crystal Beach Park, which cultivated her love for the venue. As a child, she made up ghost stories for her sister, brother, and cousins. She also enjoyed crafting and painting and earned an Associate's Degree in Commercial Art and a second Associate's Degree in Creative Writing. Most of her writing reflects her interest in amusement parks and the paranormal. Rose Ann has applied her art degree to a career restoring carousel horses and focuses on writing amusement park histories and paranormal mysteries for children. She currently lives with her husband, Tim, in Niagara Falls, New York, where they enjoy the ups and downs of life.
	Sarah is a pharmacist for Erie County Department of Health. She graduated from D'Youville University in 2019 with her PharmD. She started working with Erie County in 2020 and is now part of the Public Health Emergency Preparedness Division.
	Sarah Sanford, Senior Energy Development Specialist-ECLIPSE Coordinator & Adam Kowalyk, Aging & Disability Resource Representative Erie County \| Department For the Aging
	Shane Stephenson is the current Director of Museum Collections for the Buffalo Naval Park. He's been organizing the collections and telling stories about the artifacts including the three tour-able ships since 2018. He also spent five years working as an Archives Technician at the Buffalo History Museum and the past four years as the President of the Board for the Buffalo Presidential Center, a museum located in the Central Library in downtown Buffalo. He is the current Director of Museum Collections for the Buffalo Naval Park. He's been organizing the collections and telling stories about the artifacts including the three tour-able ships since 2018. He also spent five years working as an Archives Technician at the Buffalo History Museum and the past four years as the President of the Board for the Buffalo Presidential Center, a museum located in the Central Library in downtown Buffalo.
	"Shauna Zorich is a Clinical Associate Professor in the Department of Epidemiology and Environmental Health at the University at Buffalo. Dr. Zorich focuses on developing and teaching public health and epidemiology courses at both the undergraduate and graduate levels. She is a native of Buffalo, NY and earned her BS at Canisius College, and her MD and her Master of Public Health at the University at Buffalo. Prior to her career in academia, she was an Active Duty Officer for the United States Air Force where she worked as a Preventive Medicine Consultant for the United States Air Force's School of Aerospace Medicine. "
	"As with many holistic healers, Sherry Lyn started out doing one thing, Architecture. But when a doctor kicked her out of her practice for wanting to follow a diet lifestyle change before choosing surgery, she found that to heal herself she needed to become the healer. She uses holistic techniques & tools to find & resolve root causes. From reading the body, hearing about clients unique situations, together they create a custom regimen that may include food as medicine, healing frequencies such as tuning forks, homeopathy, essential oils, red light, grounding, whatever is needed. These actions help to resolve issues through balancing life & reconnecting to who we are. Our dis-ease & in-jury develop when we are disconnected from the natural rhythms and offerings of our world, and if we look closely, they show us what we need to see, to heal. Mind, body, & spirit are as intertwined in us as the threads in a blanket, as are we within the world we live in. When we listen, reconnect & flow with all aspects of ourselves, we can again find vitality, joy & magic. "
	Sister Judy is a Sister of St. Francis. She is a retired teacher and administrator. She was in education for 56 years. Sister has a black belt in Tar Kwon Do. She is very happy to be an instructor for University Express.
	"Steven McMorrow is a cannabis industry entrepreneur, community builder, and educational promoter based in Buffalo, New York. His cannabis career began in Colorado, where he founded and operated Cannabis Clean, a company serving licensed cultivation facilities during the state's early regulated market. Today, Steven works as an Inside Sales Manager at Thrive Agritech, a horticultural lighting manufacturer serving commercial growers worldwide. He is also the founder and executive director of Buffalo Cannabis Network, which brings together cannabis professionals, businesses, educators, and community members through networking events, educational programming, and strategic partnerships. Through his work, Steven focuses on creating opportunities, connecting people, and helping build a stronger, more collaborative cannabis industry in Western New York. He is especially passionate about sharing his experiences and helping the next generation better understand the realities, challenges, and opportunities within the cannabis industry."
	Susan Fenster is a historian and author with more than 30 years of writing experience. A graduate of Buffalo State College with degrees in History and Journalism, she has dedicated her career to documenting the stories and people who shaped New York State. Her forthcoming book explores the remarkable life of Harry Altman, the legendary operator of Buffalo's Town Casino and the Glen Casino in Williamsville. Once the region's premier entertainment venues, these showplaces hosted some of the nation's biggest stars and helped define the cultural heartbeat of Western New York in the mid-20th century. She is an active member of the Williamsville Historical Preservation Commission and the Williamsville Historical Society. Harry Altman: Buffalo's Master Showman will be her fourth work of nonfiction. She currently lives in the Village of Williamsville.
	Theresa is a retired educator who taught gifted education for 23 years and grade 5 for five years at Clarence Center Elementary School. She holds a bachelor's and master's degree from Buffalo State University. She enjoys reading, quilting and traveling with her husband.
	Dr. Reigstad is a fourth-generation Buffalonian who had parallel careers as a journalist and as an educator. He was a contributing writer and copy editor at the former Buffalo Courier-Express (a paper that Mark Twain worked for) and the Niagara Gazette. Dr. Reigstad is an Emeritus Professor of English at Buffalo State University, where he taught courses in writing, American literature, and preparing secondary English teachers. He was a Researcher-in-Residence at the Center for Mark Twain Studies at Elmira College, and has published articles in The Mark Twain Journal, along with two books about Twain's connection to Buffalo: Scribblin for a Livin: Mark Twain's Pivotal Period in Buffalo (2018), and The Illustrated Mark Twain and the Buffalo Express: 10 Stories and Over a Century of Sketches (2024). Dr. Reigstad served two terms as a board members of the Ken-Ton school district and is currently a trustee on the Town of Tonawanda Library Board.
	Dr. Rosenthal is an author, educator, and retired family doctor.
	Tim Shaw is a psychic medium, paranormal investigator, and author who frequently lectures and appears on shows like Portals to Hell and A Haunting. Raised in a family of Spiritualists in Western New York, he holds certifications in Usui Reiki and Spiritualist Healing. He is also well-known for his extensive "oddities" collection, which includes unusual paranormal artifacts.He has authored several books, including Ghosts of Buffalo, and hosts the paranormal-focused podcast, The Black Cat Lounge. You can read more about his background and services on Dragonfly Art and Soul Metaphysical Shop or find his podcast appearances through MatchMaker.fm.
	Tyler Hamilton is a food waste and compost specialist in the Erie County Department of Environment and Planning with responsibilities related to food waste reduction, composting and habitat restoration. He provides information to residents and municipalities in the County and departments within Erie County government offices on best practices for organic waste management.
	Valerie is an attorney and certified financial planning professional specializing in wills, trusts, estate planning and elder law. Her office is in Williamsville and she lives in Snyder with her husband and little dog, Alfie.
	Veronica Young, Retired Graphic Arts/Printing Professor
	Vicky is a local of WNY, born and raised in Lockport, NY. She has worked in Sports Medicine for over 2 decades at all levels of athletics. Spending 23 years in medicine, she began to learn and embrace the integrative branches of medicine and self-care. In 2018, Vicky became a Reiki Master Practitioner/Teacher. She has been offering treatments and classes in energy work, breath work, centering, and intuition for over a decade. She is a lover of all things nature and is also an avid gardener! She currently married and living in Cheektowaga with her dog Riplee and cat TJ.
	York Norman is a professor of Middle Eastern and Eastern European history at Buffalo State University. He focuses on twentieth century Turkish political thought. He has published a book Celal Nuri: Young Turk Modernizer and Muslim Nationalist in 2021 and is currently working on an analysis of Turkish nationalists from 1923 until 1980.












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