Page 4 - RR-5-21-26

4 • • Thursday, May 21, 2026 “It is foolish and wrong to mourn the men
Buffalo briefs who died. Rather we should thank God that

such men lived.”

Chimera honored among
“Women of Distinction”
NY State Senator Jeremy J. Zell-
ner honored Lisa M. Chimera, dep-
Yonce-Swain to lead WEDI uty county executive of Erie
Courtney Yonce-Swain has County, as a New York State Senate
Women of Distinction recipient dur-
stepped into the role of interim ex-
ing a ceremony held recently in Al-
ecutive director at the Westminster
bany, recognizing her lifelong
Economic Development Initiative.
commitment to education, public
WEDI was formed by Westminster
service, and community leadership
Presbyterian Church to improve the
during Teacher Appreciation Week. The Northwest Buffalo Com-
quality of life for residents of Buffa-
lo’s West Side Chimera’s recognition high- munity Center seniors celebrat-
lights her 34-year career as a special ed another May birthday. Elsie
Yonce-Swain said, “My journey
with WEDI started in 2017 through education teacher in the Kenmore- Marcotte
Tonawanda School District, where
AmeriCorps ABLE, and from the
very beginning, this work has meant she helped advance inclusive in-
structional practices and co-teach-
so much to me. Over the years, I’ve
had the privilege of growing along- ing models. She later served 14
years on the Tonawanda Town
side this organization – working
with incredible students, dedicated Board becoming the first female
Democrat elected in town history
colleagues, and community partners
who inspire me every day. What has and as an Erie County Legislator,
where she chaired the Health and
always stood out to me about WEDI
is the heart behind the work – sup- Human Services Committee and the
Minority and Women Business En-
porting families, creating opportuni-
ties, and building a stronger, more terprise (MWBE) Committee.
In county leadership, Chimera
connected community. I’ve seen
firsthand the impact of programs has focused on expanding mental
health and public health initiatives,
like those at the West Side Bazaar
and in our classrooms, and it’s what including the Erie Path Smartphone
App, the SMART Collaborative,
continues to drive me.”
Crisis to Care efforts, and Live Well
Erie.