Coffeehouse dedication to take place Saturday
by JILL SCHMELZER Reporter

Melissa Reed Chudy was a driving force who dedicated countless hours to the Amherst Youth Foundation.

She led the efforts to open the Independent Health Youth and Family Center Coffeehouse, which was started by a group of teenagers looking to pursue a career in business.

Mrs. Chudy lost her battle with breast cancer on Oct. 1, 2006, but her spirit and enthusiasm for Amherst youths will never be forgotten.

Family and friends of Mrs. Chudy will gather for a dedication ceremony from 2 to 4 p.m. Saturday, March 10 at the center, 5005 Sheridan Drive, when the coffeehouse will be renamed Melissa's Coffeehouse.

"Melissa was such a driving force, a spirit, behind the foundation's efforts to both acquire the building and create the coffeehouse," said Joe Bachovchin, director of the Amherst Youth Foundation. "Even after being diagnosed with breast cancer, she continued to work through it all. Her spirit and energy were so positive and inspiring."

Mrs. Chudy brought Starbucks and the four Rotary Clubs on board with the coffeehouse project.

Starbucks representatives mentored the high school students as they designed a business plan and implemented it once the doors opened for patrons.

The Rotary Clubs raised nearly $100,000 for the coffeehouse, and the Jolly Boys of Williamsville donated approximately $55,000.

"Melissa was somebody who helped get those groups on board to help fund the resources to make (the coffeehouse) a reality," Bachovchin said.

Mrs. Chudy's family will be at Saturday's event, including her husband, John, and two sons, Robert and James.

The dedication will include the unveiling of a mural and plaque with "Melissa's Coffeehouse" engraved on it, Bachovchin said.

For more information or to help, call 633-6773.

e-mail: JSchmelzer@beenews.com