Fillmore boys win Sec. 5 title with 74-38 blowout over Jasper-Troupsburg
ROCHESTER — After a close first quarter, Fillmore exploded for 25 second-quarter points and left little doubt in downing Jasper-Troupsburg 74-38 in the Section 5 Class D Championship held March 8 at Rochester’s Blue Cross Arena.
Fillmore (20-3) had four players reach double figures in scoring, led by Cam Mucher (25 points) and Jonah Bialek (22 points). Mucher and Bialek (Tournament MVP) both earned All-Tournament honors for their performances.
Fillmore also received representation from JD Bialek and Isaiah Sisson on the All-Tournament Team, and Jameson Rhett earned the Section 5 Sportsmanship Award.
Sisson and JD Bialek each added 11 points in the win.
“Offensively, we just did what we always do,” Fillmore coach Randy Crouch said. “Jonah got us out early
in transition, JD was big inside, (Isaiah) attacked the rim and Cam did a little bit of everything. We averaged 10-plus made threes a game, but I told the team in pregame that we needed
to push the pace and attack the rim. They really responded and played the game we needed to be successful.”
After the game’s first eight minutes, the game was 19-14 in favor of
Everyone is Irish for Wellsville’s Shortest St.
BY KATHRYN ROSS
WELLSVILLE — Get out your shamrocks and shillelaghs because it’s time for the third annual, Ancient Order of Hibernians Shortest St. Patrick’s Day Parade celebration from Friday in downtown Wellsville. The fun is set for 4 to 7 p.m. — the parade steps off at 5 p.m.
The event was organized by the local chapter of the Ancient Order of Hibernians initially to give residents something to do as winter thaws into spring. One of the organizers, Brian Cannon, said it is
a way to bring people to Wellsville’s restaurants and businesses, provide family-friendly entertainment and celebrate the area’s rich Irish heritage. At just 12 feet long — the distance between From The Hart, an Irish boutique, and the Wellsville Brewing Company pub — the parade route is the shortest known St. Patrick’s Day parade route. Although not officially recognized, each year, the route is carefully measured by a certified surveyor and village trustee, one in the same. Green lines are painted on the pave-
ment to designate the parade route.
The shortest documented St. Patrick’s Day parade takes place in Hot Springs, Arkansas and is 98 feet long. Cannon is quick to point out that is 86 feet longer than Wellsville’s parade.
Cannon explains that while the parade could be certified, the cost of getting it certified and documented in the Guinness Book of World Records is significant.
He said the AOH would rather put funds raised by the parade into the area food bank, among
Fillmore. From there, the Eagles outscored the Wildcats, 55-24. Fillmore has won its three playoff games thus far by an average of 36 points, eclipsing 70 points in all three games to earn its first sectional title since 2010.
“I am really blessed to coach this team,” Crouch said. “We knew J-T would present some challenges. They have a bunch of guys capable of hitting perimeter shots. Zver and Ainsworth in particular are tough to guard. I thought Jameson Rhett was huge tonight in holding Landon to five points. Cam really locked down #3 after the 1st quarter as well. Isaiah was also great in
pressuring the ball in the full court all game.” Fillmore will play Section 6 representative Panama (20-2) at 1:45 p.m. March 15 at Rush-Henrietta High School in the state quarterfinal. Panama has won 12 straight games and easily dispatched Forestville in the Section 6 Class D Championship, 83-38. The winner advances to the state semifinal on March 21 or 22 in Binghamton.
FILLMORE GIRLS
FALL TO ELBA
The Fillmore girls fell to Elba on Saturday in the Section 5 Class D Championship.
Photo provided
The Shenanigan Sisters have a whole new routine planned for this year’s Shortest St. Patrick’s Day Parade.
Photo provided
Fillmore boys basketball poses with medals after defeating Jasper-Troupsburg 74-38 in the Section 5 Class D Championship on March 8 in Rochester’s Blue Cross Arena.
More than $11,000 raised for family of Allegany County man who faces heart, liver transplants
Matthew was to receive his heart and liver transplants.
In addition, Hearts For Isabella organized a raffle and benefit at Raymour & Flanigan, which also contributed $500 to the cause, on West State Street.
Not too long after that he suffered a stroke and it was discovered he had a blood-clotting disorder, although his condition stabilized by age 3.
The non-profit Hearts For Isabella was in the lead on efforts to raise more than $11,000 for a Belfast man, born with a rare congenital heart disease at birth, who will receive heart and liver transplants in New York City. Matthew Wooding, who turned 25 in December, was born with half a heart — the condition is called hypoplastic left heart syndrome — and he has had many surgeries starting from birth and into his adult life. His cause was taken up by Hearts For Isabella, a non-profit started by former Olean residents Bill and Tabitha Dombrowski, who lost an infant daughter, Isabella, to congenital heart disease (CHD). Funds raised through the GoFundMe will help support Matthew and his family with expenses traveling to and staying for extended periods in New York City, where
“Isabella’s impact and the many fighting like Matthew with #chd is what inspires us and many to stand behind each other in this fight against congenital heart disease,” the Dombrowskis said in a statement announcing the total raised for Wooding. “We are truly blessed to know Matthew and equally honored to help another Heart family in our local community in such an impactful way that exceeded many of our expectations.”
Shortly after his birth, Matthew Wooding was taken to Syracuse University for his first surgery, then back after six months for a second surgery.
However, 15 years later, doctors started talking about a heart transplant, while, having gone through transitions with different physicians, one started looking at Matthew’s liver and discovered he also has cirrhosis, caused by medications over the years. He went through all the testing to be sure he met the criteria for transplants — and then the consulting surgeon left the region.
The family was referred to a New York City medical facility, which recommended that the heart and liver transplants be performed together.
Hearts for Isabella urges continued sharing
Photo provided
Matthew Wooding (center), born with a congenital heart defect, faces heart and liver transplants in New York City. More than $11,000 has been raised to support the family for travel and expenses regarding the surgeries and followup care.
Matthew Wooding continued on PAGE 2
WELLSVILLE — The Arc Allegany-Steuben invites the public to view its 2025 Arc Art exhibit at the Wellsville Creative Arts Center, 124 N. Main St. Arc Art is on display through March 31.
Auxiliary chicken BBQ March 27
WELLSVILLE —
The annual JMH Auxiliary chicken barbecue is planned for 3 to 6 p.m. March 27 in the Jones Memorial Hospital lobby. The meal includes a Stearns half chicken, coleslaw, baked beans a buttered roll and cookies. Tickets are $15 and can be purchased at the hospital gift shop now through March 20. For more information, visit the event on Facebook.
“We are honored to have partnered with the Wellsville Creative Arts Center for 18 years to promote disability awareness, and to encourage people with disabilities to explore new activities and discover their inner artist,” said Carrie Redman, The Arc Allegany-Steuben’s development director. “Arc Art is a celebration of self-expression by artists with differing abilities and this year’s Arc Art exhibit coincides with March being National Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month.
“Arc Art honors people with disabilities throughout Allegany and Steuben Counties and provides a stimulating and supportive environment that promotes creative expression, independence, dignity and community integration.”
The goal of the Arc Art program is to encourage arts among people with intellectual and developmental disabilities by giving them a place to exhibit their
Sydney Reilly starred for Elba with 25 points while Mattie McCumiskey led Fillmore with 16 points.
“We knew coming into this game that if we were going to be able to compete with this team that we would need to have one of our better games of the season on both sides of the ball,” FIllmore coach Thomas Parks said. “There were times when we did just that and there were moments where we weren’t able to sustain it. When you play a team with the pedigree of Elba, you almost have to play perfect. They have great balance and so many different players that can hurt you.”
It was still a great season for the Eagles, going 21-2. They just ran into an undefeated 22-0 Elba squad.
“There were so many unknowns at the beginning of the season,” Parks said. “We graduated six of
Arc Art on display at the Wellsville Creative Arts Center
work while increasing awareness within the general population about the creativity and talent of people with disabilities Redman said.
“Over 25 artists are displaying their work in the Arc Art exhibit,” sdhe added. “The works on display demonstrates the extraordinary creativity of its makers through an abundance of styles and images. In some instances, the artist’s disability directly influences their art; in other cases, their disability has little or no effect on their work.”
➡Fillmore Boys Basketball
eight kids including all five starters. We have no seniors. It’s never a good feeling when your season ends, but to end
with 21 wins, a league championship and a trip to the finals feels pretty remarkable considering our circumstances.”
➡Matthew Wooding
continued from PAGE 2
and spreading awareness for the Wooding family. The GoFundMe campaign will remain active through the end of March to continue to raise funds for anyone still interested that will directly benefit the Woodings.
Hearts For Isabella was created in memory of Isabella Annelise Dombrowski, who lost her life at only 3 months old, living 97 days after losing her battle to CHD following complications of open heart surgery.
The Dombrowskis have nodted that one in every 100 babies — or every 15 minutes — a child is born with CHD, the most common yet most drastically underfunded birth defect in the region, the Dombrowskis said. Isabella was born with half a heart, a diagnosis and condition called tricuspid atresia — hypoplastic right heart syndrome (HRHS), a more complex and rare CHD that is a 1 in 10,000 statistic.
Photo provided
This canvas created by Amy Adderly is one of many Arc artworks that can be seen on display at the Wellsville Creative Arts Center.
home improvement
Spring into Stain Season with the Hottest Outdoor Color of 2025
(BPT) — Exterior wood requires regular upkeep to prevent weather damage and preserve its longevity. Coming off a long winter of snow and rain, it’s important that homeowners tend to their decks and outdoor furniture to maximize the lifespan of their wood.
Spring marks the ideal time for homeowners to prepare their outdoor spaces for the warmer months ahead. With BBQs, summer holidays and dinner parties just around the corner, homeowners are looking to level up their exteriors with a new stain.
that complement their modern, minimalist eras while adding depth and character to their spaces.
“There’s been a notable shift over the years from light, muted colors toward richer, deeper hues that exude warmth and comfort,” said McCollum. “Like in their homes, people are trying to add bolder colors to personalize their spaces.”
Oxford Brown is ideal for wood that has lost its luster over time. Its design versatility makes it well suited for exterior spaces that are both future-inspired and classic designs.
for anyone looking to level up their exterior.”
“In addition to its functionality, wood stain can noticeably transform an outdoor space,” said Ashley McCollum, color expert. “Whether you’re updating your deck, furniture or fence, a new finish can significantly enhance your curb appeal.”
Before embarking on a stain project, it’s
important to select the color and level of transparency that will achieve the desired finish, specific to each wood type. According to the color experts for popular woodcare brands Olympic Stains, Pittsburgh Paints & Stains and Flood wood finishes, this year, homeowners are searching for fail-proof stain colors that empower them to design their spaces with ease. While modest blacks and subtle white oaks previously dominated the color space, homeowners appear more drawn toward warmer stains
A popular choice that is most known for transcending design styles, Oxford Brown, was revealed as the top trending stain color for 2025. As a warm, earthy hue that evokes a rustic vintage charm,
“Oxford Brown can adapt to both a modern, rustic look or an aged, historic style,” said McCollum. “Its timeless and adaptable properties harmonize with all environments, making it a truly versatile choice
After selecting a color, there is an option of transparency type. Oxford Brown is available as a semi-transparent and solid stain, so homeowners and DIYers can select the option best suited for their project.
For a rich finish that enhances the wood
grain, woodcare experts recommend Oxford Brown in a semi-transparent stain and sealant, such as Olympic Maximum, Pittsburgh Paints & Stains Paramount or Flood Wood Finishes
Pro. For a deeper, alternative look better suited for weathered wood, homeowners can opt for Oxford Brown in a solid ready-mix stain. Homeowners and DIYers can consider updating their outdoor spaces with one of the following stain projects:
• Beautify your deck and furniture. Choosing the right stain color and transparency can enhance the natural beauty of the wood. A semi-transparent stain adds a subtle color and enriches the deck’s
natural grain, while a solid stain provides maximum protection to aging wood surfaces.
• Protect your pergola against the elements. While rain can warp and crack wood, leaving residues of mold and mildew, the harsh sun can be just as damaging for your pergola. Intense heat can dry and discolor the wood, causing it to split and turn gray. It’s recommended to stain and
seal your pergola every one to three years to protect it against these harsh conditions and preserve its natural beauty.
• Revive your fence from years of weathering. Fences can easily detract from a house if the wood looks faded and unkept. A semi-transparent or solid stain can add major curb appeal, reviving wood that has lost its luster over time in three steps (See www.olympic.com/ advice/how-to-staina-fence).
This year’s stain color of choice for homeowners and DIYers, Oxford Brown, is available at The Home Depot, Menards, PPG Paints stores and independent retailers.
Bolivar-Richburg’s MacDonell places 2nd in NYS wrestling championships
Senior Tavyn MacDonell placed second in the 170-pound class March 1 for Bolivar-Richburg in the NYSPHSAA Wrestling Championships.
MacDonell won three matches to get to the final as the No. 1 seed in the bracket, but fell to No. 2 Kayleb Martin from Sackets Harbor by major decision in the final.
“You always expect the best, but when you are at that level, you get the best of the best competition,” Bolivar-Richburg coach Andrew Taylor said. “I’d love to have seen him pull it off, just a bit short.”
MacDonell received a first round bye, then took on Marcus Bazelais from Island Trees in the second round. It was quick, MacDonell racked up points at ease and earned a 16-1 tech fall victory.
“He has been high scoring all season,” Taylor said. “He takes kids down, gets a turn, and gets them back on their feet.”
In the quarterfinal, MacDonell then defeated Kazio Jellick from Maine Endwell by a 10-2 major decision. “He has been a very
the many charities the local AOH supports.
Each year the number of participants has grown and at this year’s parade watchers can expect to see some new entrants.
“The world’s Shortest St. Patrick’s Day Parade will have most of the units and participants as last year and few new entries including Kate Martell’s Dance Studio from Wellsville,” Cannon said. “The Shenanigan Sisters are rumored to be working on a new routine. They are always a hit with the crowd.”
He said it is hoped the hometown 2024 New York State softball champion team will be in the in the parade along with Wellsville High’s Kaylee Oswald, who is the state shot put champion.
dominant wrestler so far this season, it didn’t change leading all the way up to the final match,” Taylor said.
In the semifinal, MacDonell faced some stiff competition in a familiar foe. Noah Leitten from Perry is from Section 5 and the two wrestled twice previously with MacDonell prevailing each time. It was close, but MacDonell was able to beat Leitten again, winning 6-5. “It’s really hard to beat somebody three times,” Taylor said. “But he held on to win the 6-5 decision.”
Unfortunately, the run for a state title ended when he lost in a 13-2 major decision
“It is always great to honor our local high school state champions,” Cannon said. “Jeff’s Truck Repair may also have a new Blarney Bus in our parade, too.”
This year’s Parade Grand Marshall is Allegany County AOH member Mike McCullough, who will lead his AOH Division in the parade. He joins the ranks of Sister Alice Roach, the first Parade Marshall, and Rosie O’Grady, who led last year’s parade. McCullough’s wife, Kay, is also expected to march with him to help kick off the parade. Local bagpiper Steve Walker of Walker Metalsmiths and Celtic Jewelry in Andover will again escort the Grand Marshall. O’Grady and Sister Alice are also expected to join the pa-
to Martin. “He hurt his shoulder early in the first,” Taylor said. “He just couldn’t string a couple moves together to get himself into position to score. If you mess up, they are probably going to score on you at this level.”
Still, MacDonell and the Bolivar-Richburg wrestling program can hold their heads high.
Teegan Sibble won a state title for the girls, and a second place finish is still pretty impressive.
“It’s been a great season having Teegan and Tavyn on the team,” Taylor said. “Really pushing each other to be the best that they can be.”
Bolivar-Richburg students raise $10,000 for heart health in annual Kids Heart Challenge
RICHBURG — For the 10th year, Bolivar-Richburg Elementary School partnered with the American Heart Association to raise awareness about the importance of keeping hearts healthy through the annual Kids Heart Challenge. The Kids Heart Challenge encourages students to focus on whole-body wellness, helping them improve their physical health and develop strong character while raising life-saving donations for the American Heart Association. Funds raised help children who face heart-health challenges and support programs promoting heart health.
Throughout the challenge, students worked to improve their jump rope skills, earning ninja belts in the process. Additionally, all students participated in educational activities, watching videos on performing hands-only CPR and recognizing the signs of a stroke.
Bolivar-Richburg Elementary students and their families raised $11,312.40 for the American Heart Association. The top fundraiser, Levi Miller, brought in $1,126.43, and was rewarded with the opportunity to slime a teacher and toss a pie in the face of another. Six other top fundraisers also had the chance to pie a teacher at the schoolwide assembly.
rade. The Emerald Fire Department’s hook and ladder truck will also be featured in the parade, although the vehicle is longer than the route and will straddle it.
The annual fundraiser is a fun and impactful way for the school community to support heart health while making a difference for kids in need.
Nick Davis of Genesee Valley Media is expected to have footage and broadcasts from his drones, weather permitting. It will be available on Facebook and YouTube.
From Fassett Street to Madison Street, the street will be closed to through traffic from 4 to 7 p.m. friday. The village’s “open container law” is lifted in that area during that time. Local restaurants throughout the village will be offering authentic Irish dishes and delicacies for sale.
A band will also be playing outside at the Wellsville Brewery and green beer will be on tap.
For more information about the parade or to enter a unit contact Cannon at aohcannon@ gmail.com
“We hope everyone comes out to see the parade and enjoy downtown Wellsville as we say goodbye to winter and welcome spring,” he said.
Photo by Spencer Tullis Bolivar-Richburg’s Tavyn MacDonell (right) wrestles his way to a quarterfinal victory in the NYSPHSAA Div. II wrestling championships in Albany.
Photo provided
Village Trustee Mike Roeske measures the route for the Shortest St. Patrick’s Day Parade.
Photo provided
Levi Miller, the top fundraiser for the Kids Heart Challenge, celebrates with his physical education teacher Mrs. Auman.
NYCBL’s Houghton Rapids introduce 2025 manager
HOUGHTON
The Genesee Rapids, a member of the New York Collegiate Baseball League, is preparing for its 11th season, with home games played at Houghton University.
At a recent event to promote the team and the coming season, the Rapids’ new general manager, Thom Kettelkamp, said the mission for the organization remains, in the words of founder Ralph Kerr, “To present to baseball players, coaches and all whom they influence, the challenge and adventure of living for Jesus Christ in a needy world, through the game of baseball.”
Kettelkamp introduced the new head coach for this summer, Spencer Crane, a former Rapids player for two seasons who currently is serving this spring as a graduate assistant with his alma mater, Ohio Christian University in
Circleville, Ohio. In 2023, Crane was named first-team All-Conference in the River State Conference and holds the home run record at OCU. In 2024, he received the Champion of Character award for being an excellent teammate and outstanding leader.
Having played two summers for the Rapids, Crane “experienced significant growth in his faith with Jesus Christ and is passionate about helping his players do the same.”
Crane shared his excitement about having contracts from 26 players including a dozen pitchers and in turn introduced new pitching coach Gary Puccio. Assistant coach Bill Swanson is returning as well. Kettlekamp also shared the upcoming 42-game schedule —
the Rapids open the season June 6 at home against Danville — and in-season annual special events, with Kids’ Day, Kids’ Camp, an Old Timers’ Game and a Fireworks Game planned and new initiatives in the works for 2025.
Sponsors Valley Bread & Bounty of Fill-
more and Jockey Street Coffee of Houghton provided refreshments at the Rapids gathering.
Kettlekamp also noted there are 40 community volunteer positions, various assigned tasks to date and he reminded the community of the critical need to fill a few more important roles that include host homes
for players, player meal preppers and national anthem performers. Anyone interested in joining community-wide volunteer efforts may email Thomas.Kettelkamp@ houghton.edu. To learn about sponsorship opportunities, email michael.j.burgett@gmail. com.
Green promoted to VP of human resources at Jones Memorial in Wellsville
WELLSVILLE —
Jones Memorial Hospital announced that Kris Green, a native of Wellsville and a U.S. Air Force veteran, has been promoted vice
president of human resources.
Previously serving as director of human resources since 2021, Green was named VP late last month.
“People are at the core of what we do in the healthcare industry, whether that be our patients, family members or our hospital staff,” Jim Helms, CEO at Jones, said. “We have made great investments over the last few years in our associates and their engagement; Kris has been a driving force in that effort.”
Retired from the Air
Force as a senior master sergeant in 2017, Green joined Jones Memorial in 2021. He has worked as an HR professional in construction, manufacturing and distribution at LC Whitford, Alstom and Amazon prior to his career in healthcare. He graduated from Thomas Edison State University with Bachelor of Science degrees in Business Administration and Human Resources Management. He earned his Masters of Science in Human Resource Management at State University of New York at Stony Brook. A native of Wellsville, Green lives in the village with his family, where he can often be
found coaching his son’s baseball team. He is involved in the American Legion and is a trustee on the David A. Howe Public Library Board.
In his new expanded role, Green will oversee a team of HR associates and team members and hopes to grow the department as well as advance JMH as an employer of choice.
“I am honored by the trust Jim (Helms) and the hospital have placed upon me for this new role,” he said. “Every day I continue to be amazed at the work our Medical Staff and associates do to take care of patients, families and each other.”
Spencer Crane
Green
Alfred State hosts Skills USA competition for 36th time
ALFRED — Students from across Western New York came to Alfred State to compete in the Skills USA Region I competition. This is the 36th time Alfred State has hosted the event.
Nearly 800 students competed in 47 different competitions that were held on both the Alfred and Wellsville campuses. Students arrived on campus and competed versus students from 20 different schools. The top performers advance to the NY State competition with a chance to compete at the Nationals in June in Atlanta, Ga.
“This is one of my favorite days and events,”
Court
commented Alfred State Professor Emeritus and Coordinator of the event
Mike Ronan. “We have teamed with Skills USA
affirms
An Allegany County Supreme Court ruling has affirmed that former legislator Adam Cyr vacated his seat by moving from the district he represented.
Legislature Chairman Brooke Harris said in a statement that vacating the seat in District III was lawful and confirmed by the March 5 ruling after a hearing on the matter.
“Unfortunately,
to host this event for a long time, and it is great to have students compete on both of our campuses. Congratulations
to all that competed and continued success to those that advanced to the NY State competition.”
On the Alfred campus, contests included animal careers, criminal justice, health knowledge bowl, photography, and TV/video production while on the Wellsville campus students participated in auto service basic, commercial baking, power equipment, precision heavy equipment and wiring.
Attending were contestants from Genesee Valley, Calspan Career and Technical Education Center, Career and Technical Education Center
at Belmont, Charles G May Career-Tech Center, Coopers Campus, Edison Tech and Occupational High School, Eastern Monroe Career Center, GST BOCES Pauline Bush Campus, Harkness Career and Technical Center, Hewes Educational Center, Kenton Career and Technical Education Center, LoGuidice Center, Niagara, Olean CTE Center, Orleans Career and Technical Education Center, WD Ormsby Educational Center, Potter Career and Technical Center, WEMOCO Career and Technical Education Center and GST BOCES Wildwood Campus.
Vice President for Academic Affairs Carrie Cokely congratulated the competitors for their efforts. “Everyone should be proud of what they accomplished today. Many of you stepped out of your comfort zone to compete and all you put forth effort to display the skills you are learning in the classroom. I encourage you to continue to pursue your passions and to explore future education opportunities.”
Alfred State students, staff, and faculty participated as contest judges, guides or provided support.
Allegany County vacating legislature seat
there is no legal mechanism available to recuperate attorney fees associated with the county’s defense of Mr. Cyr’s failed litigation,” Harris said. “We’re looking forward to filling the vacancy and reestablishing full representation for the residents of District III.”
Cyr said in a statement he could appeal but he will instead focus on his campaign
for county treasurer.
“I was advised by a lawyer that, according to a 1993 case, if I was still a registered voter in Allegany County, I could change my address during the term,” he said.
Harris announced in early February that the seat was vacated after Cyr moved from the town of Wirt to the town of Andover.
In announcing his
health & Wellness
run for treasurer in August, Cyr indicated he lived in Bolivar, which is in District III.
A Republican — as are all members of the 15seat county legislature — Cyr was elected in 2021, representing the towns of Alma, Bolivar, Genesee, Independence, Scio, Willing and Wirt.
The county noted in February that Andover is in District IV, and
under Section 30 of the New York State Public Officer’s Law and an Allegany County local law, legislators who change their addresses to outside a legislative district vacate their positions.
Cyr reiterates that Harris and other county officials have wanted him out as a legislator because he is running for treasurer and he’s questioned spending
and taxes.
“They did not want any no votes for the 1.5% (sales) tax increase,” he said. “In the past three years they pulled $28 million dollars out of the county savings account and that covered the difference of the budget going up so nobody would notice. I am the only one talking about this.”
5 ways to boost healthier living during National Nutrition Month
(BPT) — Have you ever thought about all the ways food brings people together? The theme of this year’s National Nutrition Month®, “Food Connects Us,” created by the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, encourages individuals to explore the importance of making informed food choices while developing healthy eating and physical activity habits.
Sharing meals brings people together in ways that hold deep cultural and social meaning across communities worldwide, providing opportunities to learn about food preparation, the origins of ingredients, and the history behind the people who create the dishes.
Health, memories, traditions, seasons and access all play a role in shaping people’s relationships with food and sharing meals can enhance social connections and strengthen community bonds. While all these factors influence the foods you eat, that food in turn also affects your health.
Herbalife is fully embracing National Nutrition Month®, with its nutritionists and scientists highlighting how food connects people to their cultures, families and communities - both
their own and others.
As a global health and wellness company present in over 90 countries and known for its science-based nutrition products, Herbalife has built a worldwide network of distributors, many of whom operate independent nutrition clubs, to encourage learning about healthier lifestyle habits.
Registered Dietitian Nutritionists (RDNs) and Nutrition and Dietetics Technicians, Registered (NDTRs) such as those at Herbalife, all play a critical role in helping people understand the connection between the foods individuals and communities eat, and how these foods impact everyone’s health throughout their lives.
Here are tips from the experts at Herbalife for improving your health during this National Nutrition Month® and beyond.
1. Make time to learn
Experts like the registered dietitians who make up the Dietetic Advisory Board and members of the Nutrition Advisory Board at Herbalife dedicate significant time in educating their distributors and their customers to help them achieve the nutrition they need for
a healthier lifestyle.
Learning how to read and understand nutrition labels is one crucial step, along with understanding the importance of eating nutrient-dense foods - ingredients containing many essential vitamins, minerals and other nutrients you need, without a lot of empty calories that are devoid of nutritional value.
To help you get started, there are plenty of online resources on nutrition, such as Herbalife.com, where you can find tips for shopping and meal planning. Focusing on ways to prepare well-balanced meals, rather than opting for the quickest and easiest snacks, is key to fostering better health and well-being for you and your family.
2. Find community and connection
How you cook and eat together with family, friends and your community can impact your health and wellness goals. Activities like shopping, cooking together and having children spend time with you in the kitchen can help your whole family build healthier habits. Your children will learn from your example as you prioritize choosing quality ingredients and
prepare them with care to make healthful meals. You can also enhance that sense of connection by sharing meals with extended family, friends and other community members. Becoming an Herbalife distributor or joining one of their nutrition clubs are ways to engage with your community and continue to learn and grow.
3. Practice mindful eating Pay attention to the origins of your food, as well as how you consume them. Learning where ingredients come from and how they are best prepared can enhance your appreciation for meals and encourage healthier habits.
Increase mindfulness by turning meals into special occasions where distractions (like phones) are set aside. Spend time enjoying the food and each other’s company as you share the meal together. Slow down to appreciate each bite of food so you can not only savor the flavors and the social occasion but help decrease everyone’s tendency to overeat.
4. Prioritize nutrition
Focus on creating well-balanced meals that include a variety of nutrients. Even when you do your best, statistics show that the American diet does not always provide the proper amount of some key nutrients that are needed for the body to function optimally. It’s all too easy to lean on convenience over substance, which can have a negative impact on long-term health. Herbalife products can help supplement your diet with essential nutrients, ensuring you get the nutrition you need.
5. Stay active together
“Herbalife is more than just a provider of nutrition products - it’s a trusted community that helps millions of people around the world achieve their health and wellness goals every day,” said Susan Bowerman, M.S., R.D., CSSD, CSOWM, FAND and senior director, Worldwide Nutrition Education and Training at Herbalife. “We focus on creating lasting behavioral changes that enhance overall health and quality of life. Herbalife’s commitment extends beyond products, with our networks of independent distributors offering coaching and motivation to help customers reach their goals.”
Explore healthy living habits, nutrition tips and how to participate in a community focused on wellness at Herbalife. com.
Combine more nutrition-focused eating with physical activity with family or friends to create a healthier lifestyle for everyone. Herbalife encourages incorporating exercise into your daily routine, through group activities at nutrition clubs, personal workouts and/ or family outdoor activities. You can start with simple family walks or bike rides before or after dinner.
Photo provided by Alfred State College
Alfred State Vice President Dr. Carrie Cokely addresses students at the Skills USA competition prior to the awards ceremony.
