Country music legend Clint Black to bring ‘Back on the Blacktop Tour’ to casino in 2026
Encouraging children to be physically active can be an important step in helping them to be healthier later in life. The Physical Rehabilitation Network (PRN) says active kids are more likely to become healthy adults. Studies have shown that being physically active and
Did You Know?
making smart food choices while young can lead to a reduced risk of developing many serious health conditions later in life, which can include diabetes, high blood pressure, obesity, heart disease, and even certain cancers. What’s more, Better Health Victoria in Australia says evidence
Garage storage solutions
Who doesn’t have a space at home that serves as a catch-all for items that seemingly have no other home? For many, this storage wasteland where items go to be forgotten tends to be the garage. Before long, clutter can overwhelm the space and create an eyesore. Garage clutter also makes the space less functional by making it harder to park a vehicle or store equipment.
Organizing a garage takes work, but the end result can improve the appearance, free up space, make work more efficient, and make it easier to find and use tools more readily. Here are some ways to get started on organizing your garage.
Start with cleaning and culling
One of the first steps when organizing a garage is to thoroughly analyze what is needed and what can be removed from the garage. If items belong elsewhere, such as in a shed or the basement, move these items first. Discard damaged or broken items. Next, move on to tools or gear that hasn’t been used in some time. Will you use it again? If the item has been collecting dust for years, you likely already know the answer to that question.
Pile all items in the driveway so you have a clean slate with which to start. Measure the room to figure out the dimensions so you’ll know how much wall space is available for storage.
Free up floor space
The ultimate goal
suggests that physically active children also are more likely to mature into physically active adults. Developing fitness skills early in life is a wise choice. However, one in six kids between the ages of 2 and 19 in the United States are obese, and just one in three are physically active
each day, reports the PRN. Families can work together to help kids get on paths to better health and to become more active. This may involve putting limits on screen time and encouraging outdoor play and group active activities like sports or dance.
of a garage storage renovation is to make floor space available, according to Stacey Schweiger of Sunshine Organizing. Lifting items off the floor makes access easier, and protects items should there be a flood or leaks. A combination of wall shelves, overhead shelves, cabinets, and wall hooks can help homeowners create more floor area. Organization becomes easier when everything has a designated space where it can be easily returned to.
Consider weight When investing in shelving and racks, remember that many of the items stored in garages tend to be heavy. It’s important to ensure that shelves and hooks are heavy-duty and able to withstand the weight of pressure put on them. Verify the maximum weight so that racks will not buckle or tip over and cause issues.
Utilize overhead space
Overhead storage can be reserved for items that aren’t used
frequently, such as seasonal decorations or luggage.
Out of sight
Some items should be stored out of sight and beyond the reach of children and pets. Cabinets and containers can be used and locked to secure materials, such as fertilizers, paints, solvents, and other chemicals.
Additional ideas
Magnets, pegboards, organization bins and systems, and similar products can be used to corral small or errant items like hand tools, fasteners and more. Garage organization
will take some planning and time, but the end result can be well worth the effort.top of already chaotic schedules. If money and situation allow, plan a getaway during a particularly tough stretch of the project so the noise, mess, and disruptions will not induce headaches. Consider spending a few nights at a hotel or a friend or relative’s house to escape the constant grind of the project.
Home renovation projects add value and functionality to homes. Such undertakings can go more smoothly with some sound planning.
VFW donates $50,000 to WNY homeless veterans’ health services
See Page 5
Country music legend Clint Black to bring ‘Back on the Blacktop Tour’ to casino in 2026
BY KELLEN M. QUIGLEY
SALAMANCA —
The Seneca Allegany Resort & Casino is welcoming a bona fide country music legend back to the road in 2026. Clint Black is bringing his “Back on the Blacktop Tour” to the Seneca Allegany Events Center on Saturday, April 11. Tickets go on sale Friday at 10 a.m. Black has led one of the most storied careers in country music. He exploded onto the scene with his tripleplatinum debut album “Killin’ Time,” which produced an amazing five consecutive No. 1 singles.
A string of platinum and gold albums followed throughout the 1990s. Through it all, Black recorded a list of more than three dozen chart singles, including 22 No. 1 hits such as “A Better Man,” “When My Ship Comes In,” “A Good Run of Bad Luck,” “Like the Rain” and “Nothin’ but the Taillights.”
Black is one of the most successful singersongwriters of the modern era, selling over 20 million records, collecting nearly two dozen major awards and nominations and earning a star on the Hollywood Walk of
Fame. “I try to make records that don’t fit into a trend,” Black explains on his website. “I never wanted to
start a trend, and I’m not going to chase a trend, either. To me, a great band will always sound great, today and in ten years. If you
listen to this record, it’s not about fitting into today’s country, or yesterday’s country, or tomorrow’s country, it just is.”
Black has also ventured into acting, having made appearances in a 1993 episode of the TV series “Wings” and in the
1994 film “Maverick,” as well as a starring role in 1998’s “Still Holding On: The Legend of Cadillac Jack.” Now, Black is back on tour to share his signature sound with sold-out crowds of music lovers. Tickets start at $38.50.
In addition to Clint Black, other upcoming performances at Seneca Allegany Resort & Casino include:
• Sept. 20 – Bret Michaels: Parti-Gras Tour 2025. Tickets start at $50.
• Sept. 27 – Bare Knuckle Boxing. Tickets start at $45.
• Oct. 25 – Aaron Lewis & The Stateliners. Tickets start at $50.
• Nov. 7 – Ron White. Tickets start at $50.
• Nov. 8 – Dwight Yoakam. Tickets start at $55.
To purchase tickets, Seneca Resorts & Casinos uses all paperless ticketing for all events at all of its properties. Tickets may be purchased online at senecaalleganycasino. com or ticketmaster. com. Tickets may also be purchased in person at The Logo Shop inside Seneca Allegany Resort & Casino. A secure link, sent by either email or text, allows guests to save tickets to their phone or mobile device.
Former Great Valley Inn demolished after decades sitting vacant
BY KELLEN M. QUIGLEY
Road,
decades. But with the cooperation of the property’s previous owners, the Town of Great Valley has demolished the vacant building at 5988 Route 98, leaving the future open for development on the lot.
Town Supervisor Dan Brown said addressing the dilapidated building
in the heart of the hamlet and finding a new use for the property had been on his to-do list for decades. He also thanked Fred Perkins of A&F Trucking for handling the demolition.
The property was purchased by the town for $5,000 on May 22, according to
Cattaraugus County real property records. Although the lot is small — just shy of half an acre, according to country records — Brown said its location along the Great Valley Creek and near the bridge that carries Route 219 over the creek could make it a popular space for the community, and
the town is open to suggestions. The town bought a similar piece of property on Route 219, which also sits along the Great Valley Creek on the southwest side of the same intersection, in 2023. Brown said the town is in conversation with the DEC about making that a fishing site.
Photo courtesy of Clint Black Clint Black performs in May at the Country Thunder Music Festivals in Florida.
Photo Provided
An excavator from A&F Trucking takes down the former Great Valley Inn building on Route 98.
Photo Provided The Town of Great Valley is open to suggestions for use of the empty lot where the Great Valley Inn once stood.
BY BOB CLARK
Locals are encouraged to not waste water as the area is reclassified as being in a drought watch.
Governor Kathy Hochul and the state Department of Environmental Conservation announced an additional 30 counties have been added to a drought watch, including Cattaraugus County. Currently, 50 of the state’s 62 counties are included in the watch. State officials encouraged residents in affected counties, particularly
People looking to eat healthier are undoubtedly aware that there’s no shortage of diets claiming to help people utilize food to get healthy. Many diets live up to such claims, while others fail and some even threaten individuals’ short- and long-term health.
Dietitians, physicians and nutritionists warn that fad diets may do more harm than good,
Area added to state drought watch
those dependent on private groundwater wells, to conserve water whenever possible during the coming weeks.
“The dry conditions experienced by many regions throughout the summer are continuing into September,” Hochul said. “New York state experts are closely monitoring data and conditions on the ground to safeguard our water supplies and recommend appropriate action, which now includes taking simple steps everyone can do to help conserve water.”
“With the
expansion to 50 counties now under a drought watch, we’re strongly encouraging everyone to do what they can to conserve water at this time,”
DEC Commissioner Amanda Lefton said. “DEC will continue to monitor the conditions and work with our agency partners to ensure the health and safety of New Yorkers.”
A watch is the first of four levels of state drought advisories — watch, warning, emergency and disaster. No mandatory restrictions are in place under a drought
watch. While few public water-supply challenges have been reported due to dry conditions, belownormal precipitation during the last several months, low stream flows, and low groundwater levels prompted the need for action to ensure adequate notice to public water supplies. Local public water suppliers are urged to assess the current situation, promote voluntary conservation, and take appropriate actions to manage risk.
Another monitor for droughts had
already listed the counties as areas of concern. The U.S. Drought Monitor, which uses different methods to determine drought levels, reported a week ago that Cattaraugus, Allegany and Potter counties, as well as the northern and western portions of McKean County, were rated as abnormally dry — the lowest of five drought categories — while the southwestern portion of McKean County was listed as in moderate drought, the second tier of drought categories. Water levels remain low in the
Nutritional benefits of seafood
and studies support that advice. A 2022 study published in the journal Frontiers in Nutrition noted that nutritional inadequacy is a common concern with fad diets, which have a tendency to completely eliminate one or more essential food groups in an effort to facilitate fast weight loss. An effective approach for people without medical conditions that might
limit what they can eat involves a well-balanced diet rooted in moderation and paired with routine physical activity.
Seafood is one type of food that can offer substantial nutritional benefits. Recognition of those benefits may compel people to consume more seafood as they seek ways to live healthier.
• Fish can be hearthealthy. The American Heart Association recommends eating two servings of fish each
week, with a particular emphasis on fatty fish. Fatty fish like salmon are good sources of omega-3 fatty acids, which the Mayo Clinic notes benefit the heart in various ways. Omega-3 fatty acids can help to lower blood pressure, reduce triglyceride levels in the blood and reduce the risk for irregular heartbeat.
• Consumption of some types of seafood can promote bone health. A 2016 study published in the journal Nutrients found
a positive association between the consumption of fish and shellfish and bone health among men and postmenopausal women over 50. The authors of the study noted the link was found among Korean participants but not Americans, though they did recommend further research regarding a potential link between seafood consumption and reduced risk for osteoporosis in populations with different ethnic backgrounds.
Allegheny River, which has seen less than three feet of water at the Salamanca station at the wastewater treatment plant since Sept. 10, according to the U.S. Geological Survey’s database. As of Tuesday, the water level in the river was about 2.5 feet. The drought situation is not expected to reverse in the near future. The National Weather Service reports sunny skies between now and Saturday evening, with a chance of precipitation in the forecast for Saturday evening and Sunday.
Though further study is welcomed, WebMD notes that salmon and other fatty fish contain vitamin D, which helps the body utilize bonestrengthening calcium.
• Seafood tends to be lower in calories that other main courses. Seafood is typically the main course of a meal in much the same way that red meat and poultry tend to be the featured component of a meal. A single serving of popular fish such as cod and flounder contain far fewer calories than the same serving size of meat. For example, a four ounce serving of New York strip steak contains roughly 230 calories, whereas the same size serving of flounder contains around 103 calories.
Seafood is a nutritious option for anyone looking to diversify their diets and eat healthier.
Did You Know?
According to the 2024 Work in America Survey from the American Psychological Association, 43 percent of workers feel tense or stressed during their workday. That stress is not being left behind at the office, either. In fact, 76 percent of employees indicate workrelated stress is affecting their sleep. Though workplace stress does not discriminate based on age, the APA survey found more than half (51 percent) of workers between the
ages of 26 and 43 report feeling workplace stress. By comparison, 42 percent of employees between the ages of 44 and 57 report feeling stressed at work while three in 10 workers between the ages of 58 and 64 indicate they feel tense or stressed at work. Burnout is a notable issue many workers are now facing, and 20 percent of those experiencing burnout report that their employers are not doing enough to prevent employee burnout.
VFW donates $50,000 to WNY homeless veterans’ health services
BUFFALO — In a display of solidarity and compassion, the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) has announced a $50,000 donation to support health services for homeless veterans in Western New York.
This generous gift represents not only a tangible investment in the well-being of those who have served but also a powerful affirmation of the enduring bonds that unite veterans across generations and backgrounds.
“At a time when the challenges faced by homeless veterans are more urgent than ever, this act of giving stands as a beacon of hope — a reminder that the call to serve does not end with military
discharge, but echoes through continued acts of kindness and
advocacy, living up to our motto: ‘No one does more for
veterans,’” VFW officials said in a statement.
Safe medication management strategies
Medications are necessary to manage health conditions, improve quality of life and prevent illnesses. According to the National Health Interview Survey conducted by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, American adults between the ages of 18 and 64 take an average of 3.9 prescriptions per person per year. Those age 65 and older take an average of 5.1 prescriptions per year. It is essential to manage medications properly to avoid serious health risks. Medications can interact with one another and cause adverse drug reactions when paired with overthe-counter products and even certain foods and beverages. Drugs.com reports drug interactions are a major cause of hospitalizations and side effects. A 2024 study published in Scientific Reports found that 5 percent of hospitalizations among patients age 65 and older (78 being the median patient age) were caused by side effects associated with polypharmacy (multiple medication use). This underscores the importance of managing medications properly. The following is a guide to help manage medications effectively.
Know your
medications
The first step in safe medication use is to be fully vetted about every medication taken. This includes the brand and generic name, dosage, frequency of dosage, timing of taking the drug, how it should be administered, side effects, storage, and interactions. It’s important to keep an updated list of all medications taken, including vitamins, supplements and OTC drugs to share with each health care provider at
every appointment.
Follow directions
Strictly adhere to the information on the medication label and any instructions provided by the doctor or nurse. Never alter dosage volume or frequency without first consulting a health care provider. Complete a full course of antibiotics even after symptoms improve to prevent antibiotic resistance. Do not share medications with others or take someone
JESUS SAID, “I AM THE WAY, THE TRUTH, AND THE LIFE. NO ONE COMES TO THE FATHER EXCEPT THROUGH ME.” (JOHN 14:6)
HOUSE Memorial Chapel 8077 East Loop Road Jimersontown Salamanca, NY 14779
else’s prescriptions.
Communicate effectively
Open a dialogue with health care providers to get further clarification about medications and questions that come up. Report side effects promptly and inquire about alternative medications that may be available. Also communicate if the cost of a specific drug is prohibitive, as failing to take a medication due to cost can be a health risk.
Keep organized Utilize an effective system for storing and organizing medications to prevent missed or accidental double doses.
Use reminders on smartphones or health trackers to remember when to take medication doses. Always store drugs in their original containers, away from children and pets. Safely discard old medications when the expiration date has passed. Many communities offer drug take-back programs, and the Food and Drug
Administration (www. fda.org) provides instructions on how to dispose of certain medications where take-back programs are unavailable. Ask for help Anyone who is experiencing difficulty managing medications should reach out to a relative, friend or caregiver service for assistance. Managing medications safely is a vital component of senior health care.
NON-DENOMINATIONAL
INDEPENDENT BIBLE
BELIEVING FELLOWSHIP
WORSHIP TIME SUNDAYS 10:30 AM For Ministry Info: (716) 945-5607
BIBLE BELIEVING FELLOWSHIP ..Where Jesus is The Way, The Truth,The Life WORSHIP TIME SUNDAYS 10:30 AM For Ministry Info: (716) 945-5607
Photo provided
The Veterans of Foreign Wars recently donated $50,000 to support health services for homeless veterans in Western New York. Pictured (from left): Junior Vice Commander Marcelo Rotunda, Department of NY VFW; Danny Williams, State Patriotic Instructor, Department of NY VFW; a representative from the Healthcare for Homeless Veterans Program in Buffalo; and Daniel Kell, Past Commander of the Department of NY VFW.
Good for the Soul comedy fundraiser Sept. 20
ELLICOTTVILLE
— Tickets are on sale for a comedy show to help local suicide prevention efforts.
The Trauma Informed Coalition of Cattaraugus County and Connecting Communities in Action will host the Good for the Soul stand-up comedy show on Sept. 20 at the Holimont Main Chalet, 6921 Route 242. The show will
Visiting a local apple orchard and picking one’s fill of apples is a quintessential fall activity. Apple picking is an ideal way to spend time outdoors when the weather tends to be cool and pleasant. Gathering fresh-from-the-tree fruit to turn into favorite fall desserts like cobblers and pies is irresistible.
According to the Economic Research Service, Washington state is the leading apple producer in the United
feature Aidan Park, a comedian and founder of The Yay Foundation. Park leads tough conversations about mental, emotional, and physical health into something downright enjoyable, organizers said. He will also coach community members to tell their stories through stand-up comedy. The group’s shows and workshops use humor as a tool for stigma
reduction around mental health and to make connections with the audience.
Along with the performance, raffles, vendors and a Mental Health Market will be available, as well as a cash bar and door prizes.
General admission tickets are $30, while VIP package tickets are $75 and include preshow mingling with performers at 6 p.m.,
early access to raffles and the Mental Health Market, a dessert bar, two door prize tickets, five raffle entries, reserved seating and other perks.
Proceeds will benefit suicide prevention training and events.
For more information, visit https://www.ccaction. org/events.
Apple picking pointers
States. It is followed very distantly by New York and Michigan. Apples were first cultivated in Canada by early French settlers, with the first trees planted in Nova Scotia’s Annapolis Valley around 1633. Today, New Brunswick, Quebec, Ontario, and British Columbia have become strong players in the apple business. While other areas may not be apple meccas, those looking to pick their own have plenty of options across North American to enjoy this pastime.
Prior to an apple picking adventure, people can do a little preparation to ensure the afternoon is fun and fruitful.
• Do some research.
Before individuals head out, they should do research into the available orchards and which apple varieties they specialize in. Ripening seasons vary, so certain varieties may not be available at all times. Call ahead to learn which apples are ripe and when.
• Visit early. The best apples are often available
early in the season before the trees have been heavily picked over. It’s also a good idea to visit the orchard early in the day, which means cooler temperatures and smaller crowds.
• Dress appropriately. Orchards can be dusty, muddy and buggy. The ground also may be uneven. Individuals can wear comfortable clothes and closed-toed shoes that can get dirty. Also, they should dress in layers, as it can be chilly early in the day and
then warmer later on.
• Pick correctly. Instead of yanking on the apples, which can damage the tree and apples, people should gently roll or twist the apple upwards from the branch. If the apple is ripe it will detach easily with stem intact.
• Avoid bruising. It’s wise to inspect the apples to make sure they are firm and brightly colored. Those with bruising or insect damage should be left behind.
• Don’t overload. Only
pick what you need. Apples are delicate, and overloading the apples into bags can crush or bruise the ones on the bottom. Plus, over-picking means that the apples may spoil before they can be eaten.
After a day at the orchard, apples can be stored unwashed in a cool, dark place, which will help them stay fresher, longer.
Santa & his reindeer really “ y” ‘round and ‘round! All aboard for the merriest Christmas ever!
Music & Motion!
Thomas Kinkade’s Wonderland Express Christmas Tree
A wonderland of endless fun is yours to enjoy every Christmas! As Santa and his reindeer joyously y into the Christmas night, the Wonderland Express slowly chug, chug, chugs its way ‘round and ‘round the peaceful, little village nestled amongst the snow-kissed evergreen boughs. Now, inspired by Thomas Kinkade, the “Wonderland Express Christmas Tree” Masterpiece Edition captures this wondrous night in a very special collectible available exclusively from The Bradford Exchange.
With four levels of rotating movement—including Santa and his sleigh—you’ll watch as the Wonderland Express “climbs” ever higher up the tree. With 12 brilliantly illuminated buildings and over 30 gurines, this meticulously handcrafted, hand-painted masterwork lavished with a blanket of glittertouched snow—and playing a medley of beloved holiday carols—is certain to be the ever-so-perfect addition to your holiday decorating.
Exceptional value; attractively priced.
This Masterpiece Edition can be yours for $189.99, payable in 4 easy installments of only $47.49, the rst due before shipment (plus $24.99 shipping and service*). But don’t wait. Strong demand is expected. Send no money now. Just mail the attached coupon or shop online today!
