For additional information, contact:

Jeff Paterson, APR

Director of Communication and Advancement

Office: 716-285-8224, ext. 234

Cell:   716-990-6178

Email:  paterson@hanci.com

HANCI to present honors,

announce plans for 931 Michigan Avenue

NIAGARA FALLS, N.Y., May 5, 2010 - The Health Association of Niagara County Inc. will present several awards at its annual meeting and luncheon at noon on May 18 at the Crowne Plaza Hotel, 300 Third St. The nonprofit agency will also make an announcement about its plans for the vacant building at 931 Michigan Avenue, formerly intended as the site of Zion Lutheran Church's Ezekiel Project. HANCI announced last year that it will acquire and reopen the building.

The New York State Health Foundation will receive the Outstanding Sponsor Award, while the City of Niagara Falls will receive the Outstanding Partner Award. The Heart of HANCI Award, which has been renamed in honor of recently deceased Niagara County Office for the Aging Director Christopher Richbart, will go to Gary Hall, president and chief executive officer of WTS Inc. and Larry Montani, managing director of Niacet Corporation. They will be honored for their efforts to raise money for HANCI's Reading All-Stars after-school program. The President's Award for Distinguished Service will be presented to Michael Gormley, a board member and former president of HANCI. Pamela Jensen, a volunteer at the Dale Association, will receive the Karen Albond Courage in Caring Award, which is presented annually to an individual who perseveres in service to others despite a disability. New York State Senator Antoine Thompson will receive the Commitment to Caring Award.

Tickets are $25 each. Reservations are being accepted at 285-8224, ext. 211, or postmaster@hanci.com. Reservations are due by May 12.

#     #    #