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ELIZABETH TAUFA Reporter

• FOND FAREWELL - It seems that not too long ago I was writing in this column to introduce myself to the Amherst community. Now I say my goodbyes.

Over the past year, I've enjoyed working with and writing about the many cultures, schools and community service groups in the Town of Amherst. It's been my pleasure to witness the dedication to community displayed by residents of all ages and to report back to the community about the good work being done.

I've also enjoyed my monthly doses of civic duty with the Williamsville Village Board. I now know more about the services the village offers as well as the interworkings of its government than I ever thought I would.

For those of you who are curious, I'm headed out to discover some more of the world - in particular, Portugal, Spain, Italy and Greece. After that, my professional future is somewhat uncertain, which is exhilarating and terrifying all at the same time. I love that feeling.

That being said, I leave you in the capable hands of Andrea Kimbriel, the new Amherst lifestyles reporter. She can be reached at the office at 204-4920 or akimbriel@beenews.com. She is a fine writer with very thorough interviewing skills, and I have every confidence she will serve the Town of Amherst and the Village of Williamsville very well.

• LEARNING TO LET GO - We i nberg Campus will hold a seminar titled "Letting Go," from 4 to 5 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 21 in Amherst Towne Senior Apartments, Weinberg Campus, 475 J.J. Audubon Parkway.

The seminar, led by Debra M. Kroening, a certified hypnotist with the National Guild of Hypnotists, will address questions such as, "Are you filled with negative thoughts about yourself or others? Do you have trouble 'getting over' unhappy events?" Negative thoughts can cause stress, which may harm people physically and mentally. The seminar will focus on relaxation while learning self-hypnosis techniques to "let go" and move forward with a positive attitude. To help relax, wear comfortable clothes and bring a pillow or two. Light refreshments will be served. For information or to register, call 639-3311, ext. 2233.

• OPPORTUNITY - The Peter and Elizabeth C. Tower Foundation has announced the release of two education school-based request for proposals. The first provides support for the implementation or expansion of data-driven instruction, while the second promotes the use of technology-based remediation programs for students performing below grade level in one or more areas. Schools and school districts may be eligible for funds. An application workshop will be held April 3. For more information, visit the Web site at www.thetowerfounda tion.org.

• CAREER FAIR - Buffalo State College and the Niagara Frontier Industry Education Council will host a Career & Technical Education Fair designed for middle-school students from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 28 at Erie 1 BOCES, Education Campus, 355 Harlem Road in West Seneca. The fair will be an opportunity for middle-school students and their parents to learn about careers through hands-on activities with the guidance of experienced technicians. Career representatives will be available to answer questions. More information can be found at local middle-school guidance offices by calling NFIEC at 821-7379 or visiting www.nfiec.org.