Fundraising efforts to focus on district planetarium
Williamsville Hall of Fame Nov. 9

Measer

The Williamsville Education Foundation Inc. has pledged its continued support of the district planetarium for the upcoming year, setting a goal of $125,000 to fund additional projects at the facility.

The planetarium, located at North High School, is the only operable school-based planetarium in the Erie-Niagara region. In partnership with the school district, the foundation secured $275,000 in grant money last year to upgrade the facility with new, digital projection equipment and programming software.

"We have made a commitment to this particular project because it truly is a unique educational asset that serves not only school children but also our entire community," said Trey Measer, foundation president. "People of all ages have an opportunity to experience incredible star shows free of charge on special program nights during the school year. As a community, we are extremely fortunate to have this rare resource in our own backyard."

In addition to its support of the planetarium, the foundation provides grants to teachers to enhance the educational opportunities for students and help fund worthwhile programs or activities that cannot be supported by the district's annual budget. Since the program began in 2001, the foundation has provided 19 mini grants totaling nearly $8,000 for projects directly impacting students. Last year, six grants were awarded.

"As our funding capability grows, we hope to expand this valuable program," Measer said. He also noted that a large, anonymous gift received earlier in the year would help support the mini grant program.

The foundation also hosts the biennial Williamsville Wall of Fame, spotlighting outstanding alumni who have distinguished themselves in their profession and in service to their communities. The 2007 Wall of Fame Induction will take place Nov. 9 and will honor 13 alumni representing the district's three high schools. Ticket information for this premier event will be available in September.

Foundation officers

named

The Williamsville Education Foundation Inc. has announced officers for the 2007-08 year, with Trey Measer, publisher of Bee Publications and a 1968 graduate of South High School, remaining as president. Other officers elected are: Jeffrey H. Katz, Partner, Katz & Bahre, vice president; Charles Fadale, a partner with Dopkins & Company, LLP Certified Public Accountants, treasurer; and Dr. Richard Hitzges, retired Williamsville assistant superintendent for finance, secretary. In addition, Eileen Buzzard, Waterford Village Bank, was named to the board.

Established in 1996, the foundation's mission is to "gather and administer private resources to enhance the educational activities of the Williamsville Central School District and help ensure that its students receive the highest level of education."

To learn more about ways to contribute, visit the foundation's Web site at www.wedf.org.