Since 1984, the Preservation League of New York State’s annual Excellence Awards program has shone a light on the people who are using historic preservation to make all our lives better — through exemplary restoration projects, indispensable publications, individual action, and organizational distinction. [Read more…] about Preservation League of New York State Names Excellence Award Winners
Erie County
The Story of Empire Airlines, 1976 – 1985
Empire Airlines was founded in the 1975 as Oneida County Aviation, a small carrier based in Utica, NY.
After the passage of the Airline Deregulation Act in 1978, the airline saw potential to grow a hub operation at larger nearby Syracuse using a fleet of 80-seat Fokker F28 Fellowship twin jets and smaller 19-seat Swearingen Metro II propjets. [Read more…] about The Story of Empire Airlines, 1976 – 1985
12 New Locations to New York State Birding Trail
Twelve new locations have been added to the New York State Birding Trail. These new locations bring the total number of birding trail locations across the state to 344 and provide a wide variety of quality birding experiences for everyone, regardless of age, ability, identity, or background. [Read more…] about 12 New Locations to New York State Birding Trail
New 624 Area Code Takes Effect For Western New York
Beginning September 11, 2023, customers in the 716-area code region in Western New York requesting new mobile or landline telephone service, an additional line, or a move in the location of their service, may be assigned a number in the new 624 area code. The creation of the new area code is expected to provide additional needed phone numbers for residents and businesses in the existing 716-area code region for years to come. [Read more…] about New 624 Area Code Takes Effect For Western New York
New York State Library Announces Grants to Preserve Library Research Materials
The New York State Library recently announced the 2023-2024 Conservation/Preservation Discretionary Grant Program awards to preserve deteriorating library research materials. [Read more…] about New York State Library Announces Grants to Preserve Library Research Materials
Great Lakes Action Agenda Updated
The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) has released an updated Great Lakes Action Agenda (GLAA) 2023, a strategic, ecosystem-based action plan to guide restoration and conservation and foster sustainable, resilient communities in New York’s Great Lakes region. [Read more…] about Great Lakes Action Agenda Updated
Zoar Valley Improvements Update
New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) has announced ongoing work to improve public safety at Zoar Valley Multiple Use and Unique Areas in southern Erie and northern Cattaraugus counties and reminded visitors to prepare for outdoor adventures prior to visiting. Zoar Valley is one of Western New York’s most scenic and ecologically diverse natural areas. [Read more…] about Zoar Valley Improvements Update
Dutch-American History: The Phoenix Tragedy, 1847
I love to make evening walks in the town of Winterswijk, where I was born. The Dutch habit of keeping curtains open makes strolls resemble visits to a museum, with the windows framing paintings that offer ever-changing views. I like to discover routes to find new, unfamiliar places.
One evening, in December 2020, I passede the old graveyard of Winterswijk, a place that usually gives me the creeps. For some reason — I still don’t know why, — I decide to walk across the graveyard this time. I immediately spotted a brightly lit memorial: two bollards holding up a colorful plaque. The sign reads: “The Phoenix Tragedy, 1847.” [Read more…] about Dutch-American History: The Phoenix Tragedy, 1847
Watchable Wildlife: Birding at Tifft Nature Preserve
Just a five-minute drive from downtown Buffalo and situated on the Outer Harbor, Tifft Nature Preserve encompasses 264 acres of restored habitat with five miles of trails and boardwalks. It’s a great place to see wild birds in action. This week one visitor spotted 35 different species. [Read more…] about Watchable Wildlife: Birding at Tifft Nature Preserve
Watchable Wildlife: Clear Lake Wildlife Management Area, Erie County
Located on the north side of Genesee Road and west of NYS Route 75 in the Town of North Collins, Clear Lake Wildlife Management Area is a 526-acre property that includes the serene Clear Lake Reservoir. [Read more…] about Watchable Wildlife: Clear Lake Wildlife Management Area, Erie County