the evergreen forum

Pride 2011

2011-06-06T13:03:00.001-04:00

Photos by Jacob French and John Carocci

WOW

2011-06-02T15:30:00.002-04:00

June's Wine on Wednesdays event was held at the fabulous Black and Blue.

Raising the Rainbow

2011-06-02T15:27:00.002-04:00

The rainbow flag was raised on Niagara Square in front of City Hall to mark Pride month in Buffalo.

AIDS Walk 2011

2011-05-22T21:55:00.002-04:00

Big Changes at Evergreen!

2011-04-19T14:56:00.002-04:00

The dust is flying once again at the Evergreen Center! Construction crews are busy at work transforming the building's large open lobby into a more comfortable waiting/reception area for the rapid testing program as well as expanded conference space for Evergreen Health Services. Work is also progressing on the new Evergreen Pharmacy, an exciting new service that will be a great convenience for our clients. Watch this space for updates!

2011-03-16T11:37:00.002-04:00

Alianza Latina hosted a Zumba Happy Hour Party to mark National Women & Girls HIV/AIDS Awareness Day at the Pucho Community Center in Buffalo. The event featured information tables, HIV testing, refreshments, music, prizes, and of course, Zumba!

Bye Bye Winter!

2011-03-07T09:46:00.004-05:00

AIDS Community Services, the Imperial Court of Buffalo and Jamestown's Skybar teamed up to Kick the Winter Bye Bye on Saturday night. The event featured food, fun and a great show, all to raise funds and awareness for the fight against HIV and AIDS in the Southern Tier. Special thanks to Manolo Nieves and AIDS Community Services Outreach Coordinator Richard Baer for putting the event together, and to Skybar for generously donating all proceeds from the event to ACS.

2011-02-17T12:07:00.002-05:00

The Evergreen Association held its Annual Meeting and Awards reception on Wednesday night, honoring and thanking those in the community who have demonstrated exceptional leadership and generosity in the fight against AIDS in Western New York over the past year. Congratulations and thank you to this year's honorees!

For the Love of Chocolate

2011-02-12T17:16:00.003-05:00

Life Changes and the House of Paccioti co-sponsored the first For the Love of Chocolate social event on Friday night.

Wine on Wednesdays

2011-02-10T16:22:00.002-05:00

February's Wine on Wednesdays attendees enjoyed a delicious three course gourmet dinner at East Aurora's beautiful Roycroft Inn, along with a trio of specially selected wines. Next month: Prime 490. Click HERE for details!

Wine on Wednesdays

2010-12-02T18:39:00.002-05:00

December's Wine on Wednesdays event was held at the beautiful 31 Club in downtown Buffalo.

World AIDS Day 2010

2010-12-01T14:10:00.001-05:00

AIDS Community Services teamed up with the AIDS Network and the Burchfield Penney Art Center to mark World AIDS Day with a special display of panels from the Mending of the Hearts Memorial Project in the BPAC gallery.

National Latino AIDS Awareness Day

2010-11-12T09:51:00.002-05:00

Alianza Latina helped organize the annual National Latino AIDS Awareness Day event at the Belle Center. A wonderful time was had by all!

W.O.W. Wows!

2010-11-03T15:35:00.007-04:00

The kick-off Wine on Wednesdays event at La Cascata (in the Seneca Niagara Casino) featured fine wines, delicious gourmet food and a lot of great conversation and laughter. Upcoming Wine on Wednesdays events will be held at 31 Club, The Protocol and the Roycroft Inn (February). For details or to make reservations, contact Kim Harding at 847-0212. Be sure to ask about the Gal Pal discount!

Mending of the Hearts

2010-10-09T16:38:00.002-04:00

The Mending of the Hearts project features nearly 100 fabric panels created to honor and remember loved ones lost to AIDS. ACS hosted a work session on Saturday for people to work on panels. There was an ample supply of fabric, thread, paints, glitter and beads, and volunteers were on hand to assist with designing and creating their panels. Panels from the project will be displayed at the Burchfield Penney Art Center to commemorate World AIDS Day 2010. Stay tuned for details!

Disturbing New Statistics

2010-09-24T09:59:00.002-04:00

Yesterday the Centers for Disease Control released a report saying nearly one in five gay and bisexual men in 21 major U.S. cities are infected with HIV, and nearly half of them are unaware of their HIV status.

Click HERE to read the full story.

Life Changes Barbecue

2010-08-16T15:49:00.002-04:00

Life Changes BBQ

2010-08-09T12:07:00.002-04:00

The 3rd Annual Life Changes Barbecue is this Saturday (August 14) at Front Park from 2:00 - 6:00 p.m. There will be fun in the sun and delicious food from Big Boss Man's BBQ. For more information about this fantastic community event, contact Marcus at 716-847-0315 x443.

Garden Walk 2010

2010-07-25T18:54:00.003-04:00

What a weekend! Thousands of people from all over Western New York - and beyond - visited the beautiful Hope Blooms Garden at the Victorian over the two days of Buffalo's Garden Walk. After experiencing the mad riot of color and fragrance, our guests enjoyed refreshments and air conditioning inside the Victorian. Garden Walk is a fantastic opportunity for us to make new friends and show off what goes on at the Evergreen Center every day.

A Moment in the Garden

2010-07-21T14:40:00.002-04:00

2010-07-19T14:23:00.002-04:00

Join the thousands of people from all over Western New York and beyond who will visit the Hope Blooms Garden at the Victorian on Garden Walk Buffalo this weekend, and be sure to stop inside the Victorian for light refreshments and a chance to rest your feet!

Zumba Party!

2010-07-16T11:32:00.002-04:00

Zumba Party is Here!

2010-07-15T10:11:00.002-04:00

It's Zumba Party Day! Join us at the Belle Center (104 Maryland) between 4:00 p.m. and 7:00 p.m. as we fight HIV and get fit with Zumba. Zumba instructors from Western New York and Rochester will be leading sessions, and there will be healthy snacks and fun all evening. Admission is $10 and supports the programs of Alianza Latina. Get off your feet and ZUMBA!

2010-07-02T11:58:00.003-04:00

Join Zumba instructors from Rochester and Western New York and help stop HIV/AIDS in our familia at the Zumba Party to mark New York State Latino HIV Testing Month. The party takes place on July 15th from 4:00 - 7:00 pm at the Belle Center, 104 Maryland Avenue. There will be free HIV testing, a Zumba basket raffle, and healthy snacks provided, along with free gifts and prizes all night! Admission is $10, and proceeds benefit HIV prevention programs at Alianza Latina. Contact Kat at (716) 852-5969 or at kb.zumba@gmail.com.

Beat HIV

2010-06-27T04:36:00.002-04:00

Verve Dance Studio was jumping at the monthly Buffalo Battle on Saturday night. Verve partnered with AIDS Community Services to spotlight HIV testing as part of National HIV Testing Month. The ACS table was well stocked, and Cathy gave out armfuls of free t-shirts to performers and audience members alike.

2010-06-18T16:28:00.002-04:00

Saturday, June 26 from 7:00 p.m. - 10:00 p.m. at Verve Dance Studios (910 Main Street, above Hyatt's). Admission is $5. Call 847-0315 for more information!

Pride 2010

2010-06-07T15:52:00.001-04:00

Countdown to Pride

2010-06-04T16:48:00.003-04:00

AIDS Walk 2010

2010-05-22T20:34:00.003-04:00

What, you thought a little rain was going to stop us?

AIDS Walk 2010

2010-05-22T18:45:00.001-04:00

AIDS Walk

2010-05-20T13:58:00.002-04:00

It's the last minute crunch over at AIDS Walk headquarters... we're looking forward to walking with YOU this Saturday at Delaware Park. And don't forget, the schedule is different this year. Registration begins at 9:00 a.m. and the Walk steps off at 10:00 a.m. We'll see you Saturday!

2010-05-06T10:30:00.003-04:00

Have you registered to walk in the AIDS Walk yet? There's still time! Register as a single walker or get your family, friends and co-workers to walk as a team. You'll be eligible for some fantastic prize packages, and you'll enjoy a stroll through some of Buffalo's most beautiful neighborhoods. Best of all, you'll be helping improve the lives of thousands of Western New Yorkers affected by HIV and AIDS. How cool is that?

NOTE: this year's Walk schedule is 1 hour earlier than in past years, with registration beginning at 9:00 a.m. and the Walk stepping off at 10:00 a.m.

Dining Out for Life 2010

2010-04-29T11:16:00.003-04:00

Dining Out for Life!

Dining Out for Life 2010

2010-04-28T09:56:00.000-04:00

Did you Dine Out for Life last night? Thousands of Western New Yorkers did... stay tuned for photos, coming soon!

Dine Out - Fight AIDS

2010-04-21T13:42:00.003-04:00

Special thanks to Matthew John who snapped this photo of a Dining Out for Life advertisement on Niagara Square. Dining Out for Life is now less than a week away... have you made your reservations? For an up to date list of participating restaurants click HERE, and we'll see you on Tuesday, April 27!

2010-04-20T11:10:00.002-04:00

The Nutrition Services Department will be presenting a workshop designed to help clients use foods from the food pantry on Thursday, April 29 at 2:00 p.m. at the Wellness Center (206 South Elmwood Avenue, 1st floor). Sample tasty, easy to prepare recipes. The workshop is free, but you must RSVP to Alain at 847-2441 to reserve your space.

Also, a reminder that the Food Express truck will be at the Evergreen Center (206 South Elmwood) on Thursday, April 22 starting at 10:15 a.m. Anyone can access this service. Food will be distributed on a first come, first served basis, and please bring bags or boxes to carry food away.

More Changes...

2010-04-02T13:37:00.002-04:00

More changes in store at the Evergreen Center, this time to accommodate our rapidly growing rapid HIV testing program. Stay tuned for more!

2010-03-12T21:13:00.001-05:00

Alianza Latina hosted a Red Shoe Happy Hour to mark National Women and Girls HIV Awareness Day at La Luna nightclub on the Chippewa Strip.

Handbag Happy Hour a Hit

2010-02-27T22:07:00.003-05:00

The first ever Handbag Happy Hour was a huge success as hundreds of fashion-savvy women from all over Western New York gathered at Salvatore's Italian Gardens for this stylish new event. Hosts John Borsa of WKBW and Rob Lucas of Star 102.5 auctioned off some amazing designer handbags including bags donated by Susan Lucci and MaryKate and Ashley Olsen.

Note: if the video doesn't load due to high traffic, see a high resolution version HERE. It will take a minute or two to load depending on your internet connection.

Mardi Gras at ACS

2010-02-16T18:41:00.003-05:00

The Wellness Center hosted a creativity workshop today, and participants transformed a mountain of feathers, sequins, glitter and glue into some of the coolest Mardi Gras masks ever. Then, it was off to the parade to cheer the AIDS Community Services float! Great job guys, you looked amazing as always!

Annual Meeting/Awards Reception

2010-02-04T11:53:00.006-05:00

The Evergreen Association held its Annual Meeting and Awards Reception on February 3 in the beautiful new Wellness Center, which was a hit with attendees. The honorees were: Courtney Denk (Fundraising Award), First Niagara Bank (Corporate Service Award), Riviera Theater and Performing Arts Center (Community Service Award), Richard W. Plunkett (Fundraising Award), Victor and Corinne Rice (Trustee's Award), Robert D. Gioia (President's Award), Michael and Marilynn Militello (Horizon Award) and James Hill (Volunteer Service Award). Congratulations and thank you for everything you do!

NOTE:
if the video doesn't work, click HERE

Wellness Center

2010-01-26T13:16:00.002-05:00

We're putting the finishing touches on the brand new Wellness Center... The renovations are complete, the heating system works, the furniture has arrived, and now we just have to put all the pieces together. Check back for regular progress reports!

SISTA Reunion

2010-01-08T11:51:00.003-05:00

Over 50% of HIV+ women in the United States are African-American women. SISTA is a peer-led program designed to help African-American women use knowledge, skills and pride to protect themselves from HIV. The SISTA program consists of a two hour session once a week for five weeks. The 2009 SISTA graduates recently gathered for a reunion, and a wonderful time was had by all!

Under Construction

2010-01-05T14:39:00.001-05:00

If you've been to the AIDS Community Services website lately you know things look a bit... well, out of whack. We're in the process of moving the entire website (along with Alianaza Latina, Pride Center, DoingItSafe and Evergreen Association sites) to a brand new server. Things will be up and running better and faster than ever in just a few days. We appreciate your patience!

2009-12-31T10:45:00.004-05:00

At AIDS Community Services, the New Year means exciting new special events just around the corner. Handbag Happy Hour will be a one of a kind cocktail event showcasing designer, celebrity, distinctive and “previously loved” purses that will be auctioned off to trendy divas from throughout Western New York. Handbags from Susan Lucci from All My Children and Mary-Kate and Ashley Olsen have already come in, and trendy clutches, luggage and totes have been donated by local shops such as Modern Nostalgia and Clutch in the Allentown area. Check out Handbag Happy Hour details along with a selection of handbags HERE.

Evergreen Center Update

2009-12-04T12:22:00.002-05:00

Work continues throughout the Evergreen Center! The exterior upgrades are done, including fresh paint on the trim and a new wind shelter at the back entrance. Now workers are giving the lobby a brand new paint job and putting the finishing touches on the Wellness Center. They're also installing new efficient light bulbs throughout the building that will result in energy savings of more than $6000 each year.

Women's Wine Club Photo Gallery

2009-12-03T13:34:00.002-05:00

Click HERE to see photographs from the Women's Wine Club event at Oliver's.

World AIDS Day 2009

2009-12-01T16:47:00.002-05:00

World AIDS Day 2009

2009-11-18T11:48:00.005-05:00

Each year on December 1, the world pauses for a day to remember those we've lost to AIDS and renew our commitment to ending the epidemic. This year, AIDS Community Services and the AIDS Network will co-sponsor A World Without AIDS to mark World AIDS Day 2009. The event will feature a display of the Mending of the Hearts Memorial Project, a collection of beautiful fabric panels created to honor people who have died of AIDS. There will also be a press conference and HIV+ speakers. A World Without AIDS will take place on Tuesday, December 1, 2009 from 11 a.m. until 3 p.m. at the Evergreen Conference Center, 119 Chippewa Street, Buffalo.

Wellness Center Update

2009-11-12T16:07:00.002-05:00

Here's an update on the transformation of the Evergreen Center's first floor into the new Wellness Center at AIDS Community Services. More to come!

Women's Wine Club at Oliver's

2009-11-11T15:32:00.004-05:00

November's WWC met at Oliver's, and it looks like a great time was had by all. Click HERE to see photos. Also, check back soon for photos from Russell's Steaks Chops and More!

Changes at the Evergreen Center

2009-11-02T12:50:00.005-05:00

If you've been in or around the Evergreen Center lately, you'll have noticed there's a lot of construction and renovation work going on, both inside and out. Gary Williams, Assistant to the President at AIDS Community Services, is coordinating the day to day work, so we asked him for an overview of the changes in store at the Evergreen Center.

"For those who may not know, our building at 206 South Elmwood Avenue, The Evergreen Center, formerly known as the Roanoke Arms, was built in 1901 as the Pan American Exposition hotel and is on local, state, and national historic registers. One of the projects we are excited about is the restorative painting around the exterior perimeter of the building. This is made possible by the community Foundation of Greater Buffalo’s Historic Preservation grant.

Secondly, we are able to remodel what was once the Vito’s and Chowbella’s restaurant space into what will be our new Wellness Center, along with offices, a conference room, private meeting space, and a small workout/weight room. The larger open center space will house a lunch program, classroom and learning activities, as well as casual gatherings designed to keep clients engaged in healthy, non-risk activities. This is made possible through the Cummings Foundation and a HUD funded Community Development Block Grant administered by the City of Buffalo.

Elsewhere in the building, we have updated electrical circuits to house 2 additional freezers in our pantry program. We have also been replacing and rewiring some antiquated lighting, replaced security lighting outside the building and installed a security light at the rear exit into the parking lot. We have finished updating all our exit signs with efficient LED lights. We were spending anywhere from $400-$600/year replacing these bulbs that burn 24/7/365. We now won’t have to replace them for approximately 10 years. These have approximately a 2 year payback in the bulb replacement alone, and approximately a year and a half payback including energy savings. Speaking of energy savings, we have switched our electric energy supplier which resulted in a supply savings average of 50%, which is roughly $15,000/year.

Over the next couple weeks we will see some additional activity in and around the parking lot. We will be replacing the rotted and broken stockade fencing with new pressure treated, heavy duty custom fencing. Following that will be the installation of a windbreak/awning over and around the rear entrance/exit of the building. In addition to giving staff and guests a little more protection during inclement weather, this will protect and prevent the back door from being swung open or slammed closed on windy days.

We have also recently been able to replaced the parking pad entrance to the parking lot and the sidewalk into the rear entrance of the building. The parking pad was beyond any small repairs we were attempting and the sidewalk had been heaving and needed to be replaced before it became any more of a safety hazard.

Also in the very near future is the beginning of the update to our fire safety system by replacing the current fire alarm panel with an addressable panel that will allow the monitoring company to detect and pinpoint the location of an alarm or problem, providing early warning and evacuation.

Slowly, one bit at a time, the Roanoke Arms/Evergreen Center is getting a facelift to restore her glory and to provide our staff and guests a safe, warm, peaceful place in which to work and to get and stay healthy"

Thanks Gary - we can't wait to see how it turns out!

Make a Splash II

2009-10-24T20:33:00.001-04:00

Make A Splash I

2009-10-24T20:04:00.003-04:00

Here's Don Zinteck of ZGM Gallery talking about the Make a Splash project. There's still one week left for you to be part of this exciting community art project! ZGM Gallery will be open on Saturday, October 31 from 10:00 a.m. until 4:00 p.m. for splashers. The Gallery is located at 1045 Elmwood Avenue in Buffalo.

There's Still Time to Splash!

2009-10-19T14:13:00.002-04:00

There are still two more chances for you to Make A Splash and fight AIDS in Western New York - click HERE for details!

Making a Splash for ACS!

2009-10-10T00:39:00.005-04:00

Have you ever looked at a Jackson Pollock painting and thought "I could do that"? Well, here's your chance to prove it. The Make a Splash event at the ZGM Gallery on Elmwood Avenue lets you channel your inner Jackson Pollock and, for a $20 donation to AIDS Community Services, squirt, splash or throw paint from a 13 foot balcony onto a giant 10 foot by 18 foot canvas below. This "community art project" will then be sold, raising even more money for the fight against AIDS here in Western New York. You can Make a Splash during on any Saturday in October at the gallery (click HERE for dates and times). Video: recap of the opening reception held Friday evening.

Cameron Wows at the Riviera

2009-10-05T00:23:00.007-04:00

Maverick organist Cameron Carpenter gave an impressive and well-received performance Sunday afternoon at the Riviera Theatre. Cameron's skill was apparent from the very first note, and he performed a variety of classical pieces, many of which aren't typically associated with the organ, including the Gershwin medley that closed the show. After the performance, VIP ticket holders attended a reception where they were able to speak to Cameron and enjoy wine and hors d'ouevres. During the show Cameron noted that the fight against HIV and AIDS is a cause close to his heart, and the performance was a benefit for AIDS Community Services. Thank you Cameron, the Riviera Theatre, media sponsor WBFO and everyone who attended this special performance! Note: I had trouble editing the video, so it's kind of choppy.

UPDATE: read the Buffalo News review HERE.

Countdown to Cameron

2009-10-01T14:49:00.001-04:00

If you haven't purchased your tickets yet to see Cameron Carpenter's October 4th performance at the Riviera Theatre, time is running out! This special performance by the "Maverick" organist is a fundraiser for AIDS Community Services. Click HERE for ticket information.

2009-09-16T11:10:00.004-04:00

The Food Express delivery truck will be at the Evergreen Center on Thursday, September 24th starting at 10:15 a.m. The Food Express truck delivers perishable items such as produce, dairy and meat for immediate distribution to the community on a first come, first served basis. Items vary from month to month, and anyone in the area can utilize this service. Please bring your own boxes/bags to transport the food. The Evergreen Center is located at 206 South Elmwood Avenue in Buffalo, and the truck will be parked in the parking lot behind the building.

2009-09-15T13:13:00.003-04:00

WBFO-88.7 and AIDS Community Services present world famous "maverick" organist Cameron Carpenter, performing live at the beautiful Riviera Theatre in North Tonawanda. The show is a benefit for AIDS Community Services, and tickets are just $20. For tickets, call the Riviera box office at 692-2413 or click HERE.

Another Fabulous Women's Wine Club!

2009-09-03T17:24:00.000-04:00

Check out the pictures HERE!

Updates!

2009-09-03T14:15:00.002-04:00

There's a lot going on at AIDS Community Services these days! Buffalo Wings Kat and Joe are back safe and sound (and sore) from the Empire State AIDS Ride. They rode from Niagara Falls to New York City - 560 miles - in just one week to raise money and awareness for the fight against AIDS. Great job Kat and Joe! The new issue of Pathways will hit mailboxes any day now. If you're not on the Pathways mailing list and would like to be, e-mail me at jcarocci@aidscommunityservices.com and I'll make sure you receive future issues. The new Women's Wine Club is a huge success. Women from all over Western New York are enjoying fine wines and delicious gourmet food at the Stillwater on the first Tuesday of each month and the Verbena Grill on the second Tuesday of each month. WBFO and ACS are teaming up to present organist Cameron Carpenter live at the Riviera Theatre on Sunday, October 4. Visit www.rivieratheatre.org to get your tickets! The Evergreen Center's Testing on Tuesday program offers convenient evening hours for rapid HIV testing - it's free and you get your results in just 10 minutes! For more information on any of these events, programs and services, visit our website at www.aidscommunityservices.com.

AIDS Ride Update

2009-08-20T13:44:00.002-04:00

Alianza Latina staff has been getting regular updates from Kat Boger on the Empire State AIDS Ride. Here's the summary: it's hotter than blazes, but Kat is riding strong. No surprises on either count! Tuesday was "red dress, blonde hair or red hat day" but we decided it was best not to ask for details. We'll keep you posted as updates come in.

2009-08-13T12:08:00.004-04:00

Alianza Latina Senior Director Kat Boger will once again represent the Evergreen Association along with Buffalo Wings teammate Joe Boyler in the Empire State AIDS Ride. The Ride is a week-long 560 mile bicycle trek from Niagara Falls to New York City, and it starts on Sunday! This will be Kat's second year on the Ride, which raises awareness and funds to fight AIDS. It's not too late to sponsor Kat - you can visit her Empire State AIDS Ride web page HERE, and any gift big or small is appreciated! Congratulations and thank you, Kat and Joe!

Women's Wine Club is a Hit

2009-08-07T15:21:00.004-04:00

The Women's Wine Club held its first "meeting" Tuesday night at the Stillwater, and a fantastic time was had by all. Here's the deal: for $55 (if you pre-register) you get a delicious three course gourmet meal and a sampling of some of the finest wines out there, and a portion of the evening's proceeds help support AIDS Community Services! The Women's Wine Club meets on the first Tuesday of each month at the Stillwater, and the second Tuesday at the Verbena Grill. Click HERE for more information or to make your reservations (it's $65 at the door so you save $10 if you pre-register!).

2009-08-06T12:57:00.004-04:00

Traci just told us about the Pride Center's exciting new youth project - the Queer Edge Summer Arts Project. Traci says: "The Queer Edge Summer Arts Project will be offering artistic programming August 17th through August 28th focusing on healthy lifestyles free of substance abuse. Lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, questioning, and allied youth ages 13 – 24 will have the opportunity to work together on a wall size mural for a community arts project, and to participate in dance meditation, educational workshops, drumming, and creative writing workshops led by qualified instructors from the field. For those who are not afraid of the spot light, participants will have a chance to present their creative projects followed by a post production party at the end of the project. The workshops will be held in various locations throughout downtown Buffalo. Refreshments and snacks will be provided throughout the series, and participants who complete the program will have a chance to win one of several IPods." For more information or to register, please call Traci at the Pride Center 852-7743 extension 436.

Life Changes Barbecue

2009-07-29T10:17:00.001-04:00

The 2nd Annual Life Changes Barbecue was a huge success despite a brief (but intense!) summer rainstorm. Thanks to Bon-Bon for these great photographs!

Countdown to the AIDS Ride

2009-07-16T11:09:00.003-04:00

The Empire State AIDS Ride is less than a month away! Our Buffalo Wings Bicycle Team will once again represent AIDS Community Services, riding the 560 miles from Niagara Falls to Manhattan in just seven days. Over the years the Buffalo Wings have raised over $250,000 for AIDS Community Services! Katherine Boger, Senior Director of Alianza Latina, is riding with the Buffalo Wings for the second time this year. Good luck, Kat! For more information on the Ride contact Kim at 847-0340 x 315 or via e-mail at kluangpakdy@aidscommuntyservices.com.

2009-07-09T15:48:00.006-04:00

We're all excited about a brand new special event - the WOMEN'S WINE CLUB! The WWC is a great chance for you and your friends to sample fine wines and enjoy a delicious three course gourmet meal at one of Western New York's finest restaurants. The price is $55 if you PRE-REGISTER, and includes wines, dinner, tax and gratuity. The price is $65 at the door. Best of all, AIDS COMMUNITY SERVICES gets $20 for each person that attends! Enjoy a fabulous night on the town and help fight AIDS with the Women's Wine Club!

2009-07-01T15:16:00.001-04:00

Top: modeling our new LifeGuards shirts, which will identify the Outreach Team at Summer events such as Thursday in the Square. Bottom: giving out condom packs and safer sex information at street outreach.

Alianza Latina in Action!

2009-06-22T11:53:00.002-04:00

At the Niagara Street Health Fair on June 20, 2009.

2009-06-18T12:16:00.003-04:00

The Food Express delivery truck returns to the Evergreen Center on Thursday, June 25th at 10:00 a.m. The truck delivers perishable food items such as produce, dairy and meat for immediate distribution. Anyone in the area can access the truck.

Food is distributed on a first come, first served basis. Because of high demand the line form early.

You must bring your own bags/boxes to carry food away.

The Evergreen Center hosts the truck on the 4th Thursday of every month.

Items distributed will vary from month to month.

Camp Good Days

2009-06-16T10:02:00.005-04:00

Molly sent this along: Camp Good Days runs a residential camping program for children ages 8-14 who are infected or affected by HIV/AIDS. The program, called Camp Courage/TLC, is held on Keuka Lake from July 22 to July 24 . If enough people from the Buffalo area register, a the camp will provide bus transportation from the Buffalo office on Transit road to camp and back. All of the camp’s programs are offered free of charge and Molly says this would be a great opportunity for a child newly aware of their parents' status to be around other kids who are dealing with the same issues in a fun atmosphere. Applications and information are available at http://www.campgooddays.org/. Thanks Molly!

Rural Connections

2009-06-16T09:50:00.003-04:00

HIV+ individuals who live in rural areas of Western New York and don't have internet access may have a tougher time finding information and staying connected to services. Now there's a free* telephone support/resource group held via conference call which is available to HIV+ MSMs (men who have sex with men). Conference calls are held each Thursday from 10:00 a.m. until 11:15 a.m. and are facilitated by an HIV+ MSM. Calls are confidential, but space is limited so you must register to participate: call John at (315) 571-4770. This is a service of the Central New York Health Systems Agency HIV Care Network. Thanks to Mark for the tip!

* the service is free but note this is a toll call from the (716) area code.

The Evergreen Association at Pride 2009

2009-06-08T00:19:00.000-04:00

Oral Sex: How Risky Is It?

2009-06-04T15:03:00.006-04:00

Thanks Cathy for the latest from the CDC:

Oral Sex Is Not Risk Free
Like all sexual activity, oral sex carries some risk of HIV transmission when one partner is known to be infected with HIV, when either partner’s HIV status is not known, and/or when one partner is not monogamous or injects drugs. Even though the risk of transmitting HIV through oral sex is much lower than that of anal or vaginal sex, numerous studies have demonstrated that oral sex can result in the transmission of HIV and other sexually transmitted diseases (STDs). Abstaining from oral, anal, and vaginal sex altogether or having sex only with a mutually monogamous, uninfected partner are the only ways that individuals can be completely protected from the sexual transmission of HIV. However, by using condoms or other barriers between the mouth and genitals, individuals can reduce their risk of contracting HIV or another STD through oral sex.

Oral Sex is a Common Practice
Studies indicate that oral sex (fellatio, cunnilingus and anilingus) is commonly practiced by sexually active male-female and same-gender couples of various ages, including adolescents. Some data suggest that many adolescents who engage in oral sex do not consider it to be "sex;" therefore they may use oral sex as an option to experience sex while still, in their minds, remaining abstinent. Moreover, many consider oral sex to be a safe or no-risk sexual practice. In a national survey of teens conducted for The Kaiser Family Foundation, 26% of sexually active 15- to 17-year-olds surveyed responded that one "cannot become infected with HIV by having unprotected oral sex," and an additional 15% didn’t know whether or not one could become infected in that manner.

Oral Sex and the Risk of HIV Transmission
The risk of HIV transmission from an infected partner through oral sex is much less than the risk of HIV transmission from anal or vaginal sex. Measuring the exact risk of HIV transmission as a result of oral sex is very difficult. Additionally, because most sexually active individuals practice oral sex in addition to other forms of sex, such as vaginal and/or anal sex, when transmission occurs, it is difficult to determine whether or not it occurred as a result of oral sex or other more risky sexual activities. Finally, several co-factors may increase the risk of HIV transmission through oral sex, including: oral ulcers, bleeding gums, genital sores, and the presence of other STDs. What is known is that HIV has been transmitted through fellatio, cunnilingus, and anilingus. In addition to HIV, other STDs can be transmitted through oral sex with an infected partner. Examples include herpes, syphilis, gonorrhea, genital warts (HPV), intestinal parasites (amebiasis), and hepatitis A.

Reducing the Risk

Generally, the use of a physical barrier during oral sex can reduce the risk of transmission of HIV and other STDs. A latex or plastic condom may be used on the penis to reduce the risk of oral-penile transmission. If your partner is a female, a cut-open condom or a dental dam can be used between your mouth and the vagina. Similarly, regardless of the sex of your partner, if your mouth will come in contact with your partner’s anus, a cut-open condom or dental dam can be used between your mouth and the anus. At least one scientific article has suggested that plastic food wrap may be used as a barrier to protect against herpes simplex virus during oral-vaginal or oral-anal sex. However, there are no data regarding the effectiveness of plastic food wrap in decreasing transmission of HIV and other STDs in this manner and it is not manufactured or approved by the FDA for this purpose.

AIDS Walk 2009

2009-05-30T18:01:00.001-04:00

Walk With Us on Saturday!

2009-05-27T11:47:00.003-04:00

AIDS Walk is only a few days away, and with 44 teams and 160 people already registered online, competition among the teams is heating up. The Buffalo Gay Men's Chorus and Team Speedy are neck and neck for the lead in the online fundraising race, followed by Buttercup's Buddies, the HSBC Globe Team and Katelyn Walker's Team. And let's not forget perennial powerhouses Team Special K and the Gap! The rivalry is fun, but all of the teams and individual walkers are working toward the same goal. If you'd like to Walk With Us, click here to register, then join us this Saturday at Hoyt Lake in Delaware Park.

Charts Charts Charts

2009-05-18T09:47:00.003-04:00

Cathy sent THIS LINK to a series of 16 charts from the CDC showing HIV/AIDS surveillance among adolescents and yound adults.

Walk With Us (Part II)

2009-05-15T13:50:00.003-04:00

Update: the meeting location has been changed! You're invited to the parade event of the year - the Evergreen Association will be marching in the annual Pride Parade on Sunday, June 7th, and we'd love to have you march with us! Join us at the Belmont Shelter Corporation (1195 Main Street at Dodge Street). The parade starts at 1:00 p.m. so be sure to arrive early and get your free t-shirt and rainbow flag. If you don't want to march you can still be part of the fun... cheer us on along the parade route (Elmwood Avenue between Summer Street and Bidwell Parkway). Family and friends of all ages are welcome!

Walk With Us

2009-05-12T11:33:00.003-04:00

Each year we invite you to Walk With Us at the AIDS Walk, but this year we really mean it! The 2009 AIDS Walk team roster includes not just one but two teams made up of Evergreen Association staff members. Buttercup's Buddies put the challenge out and Team Speedy answered that challenge with a quickness! The two teams have - so far - managed to keep the rivalry friendly, and we'll find out on May 30 which team comes out ahead. If you haven't registered for the AIDS Walk there's still time! Click HERE to sign up. You can register as an individual walker, join an existing team or start one of your own. It's simple, quick and secure. We'll see you on May 30th, Lakeside at Delaware Park.

2009-05-07T15:31:00.003-04:00

Our Hope Blooms Garden at the Victorian has become one of Buffalo's most talked-about gardens! Each year, the Garden hosts thousands of visits on Garden Walk weekend, and since ACS is going to be an official hospitality station this year we're expecting our busiest year ever. Returning visitors will notice some big changes in the Garden. The large wooden wheelchair ramp that dominated the yard has been removed and replaced with a much smaller motorized lift. The waterfall and fish pond have been completely rebuilt. They're bigger, and a more interesting shape. Our goldfish can't wait to move back in! Finally, the gravel path has been replaced with the brick and granite Hope Blooms Commemorative Walkway. It's hard to imagine, but the chaos shown above will become a beautiful urban garden over the next few weeks! UPDATE: the goldfish are all moved in to their new home, and very happy from all accounts.

The Flu and HIV

2009-05-05T16:58:00.002-04:00

The Swine Flu hysteria presents a good opportunity for a reminder that any influenza carries potential risks for persons with HIV infection. People with HIV - particularly those with low CD4 cell counts - are at higher risk for viral and bacterial lower respiratory tract infections and for recurrent pneumonias. Be sure to use common sense precautions such as frequent hand washing to lower your risk.

Dining Out for Life

2009-04-30T12:15:00.006-04:00

Here are some shots from Dining Out for Life 2009 at La Tee Da Cafe. The atmosphere was electric, the food was delicious, and an entire community came together to enjoy a great meal and make a real difference in fight against HIV and AIDS. Thank you all! If you have Dining Out for Life photos of your own, send them to jcarocci@aidscommunityservices.com and we'll add them to the slideshow.

UPDATE: thanks Eugene and Chris for the great photos from Panos and Chefs!

HIV and AIDS in America: A Snapshot

2009-04-29T12:16:00.002-04:00

Thanks to Tom for sending along this story from The Body which gives a chilling snapshot of the impact HIV and AIDS continue to have in America:

More than one million people are living with HIV in the U.S. (an estimated 1,106,400 adults and adolescents), and approximately one in five of those (21 percent) are unaware of their infections.
An estimated 56,300 Americans become infected each year. On average, that's one infection every 9 ½ minutes.
More than 14,000 people with AIDS still die each year in the U.S.
Men who have sex with men (MSM) account for more than half of all new HIV infections in the U.S. each year (53 percent), as well as nearly half of people living with HIV (48 percent).
While new HIV infections have declined among both heterosexuals and injection drug users, infections among MSM have been steadily increasing since the early 1990s.
Among racial/ethnic groups, African-Americans face the most severe burden of HIV and AIDS in the nation. While blacks represent approximately 12 percent of the U.S. population, they account for almost half of people living with HIV in the U.S. (46 percent), as well as nearly half of new infections each year (45 percent).
At some point in their life, approximately one in 16 black men will be diagnosed with HIV, as will one in 30 black women. The rate of new HIV infections for black men is about six times as high as that of white men, nearly three times that of Hispanic men, and more than twice that of black women. The HIV incidence rate for black women is nearly 15 times as high as that of white women, and nearly four times that of Hispanic women.
Hispanics represent 15 percent of the population but account for an estimated 18 percent of people living with HIV and 17 percent of new infections. The rate of new HIV infections among Hispanic men is more than double that of white men, and the rate among Hispanic women is nearly four times that of white women.

A New Source of Information

2009-04-28T09:49:00.002-04:00

Ray passed along a great new resource for HIV/AIDS information... click HERE to see Pfizer's HIV Pro page.

HIV Work and Social Networking Sites

2009-04-27T10:15:00.002-04:00

According to the Associated Press, a growing number of public health agencies are using social networking websites (MySpace, Facebook, Manhunt etc.) to reach people who may have been exposed to sexually transmitted diseases, including HIV:

Health departments traditionally have used letters and phone calls to set up face-to-face meetings with the partners of people with STIs who visit their clinics, test positive or provide their partner's information to health officials. However, the Internet sometimes allows people to identify their partners only through online names. By accessing popular social networking sites health officials can use online names to contact people's partners and advise them to seek out STI testing and treatment...

6 Days and Counting...

2009-04-22T14:52:00.002-04:00

Dining Out for Life is less than a week away... check out the up to date list of restaurants HERE and join us for Western New York's most delicious fundraiser!

2009-04-20T10:02:00.009-04:00

Tom passed along this editorial from the New York Times:

The AIDS epidemic is spreading faster than previously thought, even as the American public’s concern about it declines. That dangerous disconnect underscores the urgency of a new campaign announced by the Obama administration to combat complacency about the disease and its potential to strike the unwary. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimates that in 2006, 56,000 people around the country were newly infected with HIV, the virus that causes AIDS, a hefty boost from previous estimates of 40,000. Meanwhile, surveys by the Kaiser Family Foundation show a sharp drop in public interest or concern. The percentage of Americans who say they have seen, heard or read a lot about the problem of AIDS in this country fell from 34 percent five years ago to 14 percent today. The number deeming AIDS the most urgent health problem facing the nation dropped from 44 percent in 1995 to 6 percent today. Such complacency may reflect a belief that AIDS is primarily a problem in Africa, or a feeling that AIDS has become treatable, so why worry about infection. The administration’s new five-year, $45 million communications campaign will try to "put the HIV crisis back on the national radar screen," according to the White House. It will feature video, audio, print and online messages about the severity of the threat and where to get information about it and will reach out to the populations most severely affected, such as African-Americans and Latinos. It will also try to enlist community organizations, public health groups and media outlets in the campaign. Mere awareness won’t be enough to curb the epidemic. More than a million people in this country are infected with the virus, and 20 percent of them don’t know it. Their ignorance jeopardizes their own health and increases the risk that they will spread the virus to others. It is imperative that testing for the virus become routine among all those likely to be at risk. The Bush administration achieved notable success in boosting American support for the fight against AIDS overseas; it cut the death toll from AIDS by 10 percent in 12 African countries but did not prevent new cases. President Obama should build on that legacy abroad while also shrinking the size of this country’s epidemic. (Peter A. Laqueur, published April 19, 2009)

2009-04-07T09:58:00.004-04:00

Dining Out for Life® has quickly become one of AIDS Community Services’ most popular annual events, and it’s easy to see why. After all, everyone enjoys sharing a delicious meal with family and friends at one of Western New York’s many fine restaurants and cafes, especially when it supports a great cause. The Dining Out for Life® concept is simple but astonishingly successful. Here’s how it works: on April 28, 2009, participating restaurants will donate a portion of each food check (usually 25%, but sometimes 50% or even 100%) to AIDS Community Services. That’s it. No tricks, no fine print, no hidden loopholes, and, best of all, no piles of dirty dishes to wash. All you have to do is show up and eat.

Response from the public over the past seven years has been phenomenal, and Dining Out for Life® has grown each year as more and more diners embrace this fun, low-impact fundraiser. Western New York restaurants have responded enthusiastically as well, seeing Dining Out for Life® as an opportunity to attract new customers while making a real difference in our community. With close to 100 restaurants already signed on to participate on April 28, there’s sure to be something on the menu to suit every palate and budget.

Volunteer Dining Out for Life® ambassadors will be stationed at each participating restaurant on April 28. Ambassadors greet patrons and explain how the event helps ACS provide essential services to the thousands of Western New Yorkers affected by HIV and AIDS. Ambassadors will also offer diners an opportunity to enter a free raffle, ask questions or make an additional contribution. This personal connection is a great way to thank patrons directly for their support and raise awareness among those who might not have previously known about the event (so that’s why the parking lot was so full on a Tuesday evening!) or about the devestating impact HIV and AIDS continue to have on our community.

ACS presents Dining Out for Life® under the umbrella of the national Dining Out for Life® organization, which was founded in Philadelphia in 1991. Dining Out for Life® events are currently held in fifty two cities throughout the United States and Canada, raising over three million dollars every year to fight AIDS. While the national Dining Out for Life® organization provides ideas, networking opportunities and marketing support, all funds raised in Western New York stay in Western New York. Locally, Dining Out for Life® is growing thanks in large part to the hard work of 2008 event Co-Chairs Michael and Marilynn Militello, who are returning to co-chair the 2009 event.

Please join the thousands of Western New Yorkers as, together, we dine out for life. You can find an updated restaurant list at http://www.diningoutforlife.com/ (we strongly recommend making reservations). Whether you choose a familiar neighborhood favorite or decide to be adventurous and try someplace new, we look forward to seeing you at the table on April 28, enjoying a great meal and helping fight AIDS at the same time. Just remember to save some room for dessert!

Photo: a delicious paella at DiGiulio & Co. on Hertel Avenue, participating in Dining Out for Life® for the second year. Special thanks to Deanna and Bill for their help with the photo shoot!

From the CDC...

2009-03-30T13:55:00.002-04:00

In 2005, HIV disease was the third leading cause of death for black women aged 25-44 years, and the fourth leading cause of death for black women aged 45-54 years. Among all women, HIV disease mortality increased between 1987-1995, then decreased until 1998. From 1998-2005, HIV disease mortality for black women aged 25-44 years increased to 20.7 deaths per 100,000 population, and to 27.9 per 100,000 among black women aged 45-54.

ACS Featured on Garden Walk Website

2009-03-26T11:33:00.002-04:00

(by Christopher Voltz) In a relatively new development, GardenWalk Buffalo selects one of its participant gardens to be featured on its website as its Garden of the Month. This month AIDS Community Services’ “Hope Blooms” Garden at the Victorian has been selected. To view this feature including an article about the garden and the many exciting new developments happening this year click on http://gardenwalkbuffalo.com to visit the GardenWalk Buffalo website.

2009-03-24T11:33:00.000-04:00

2009-03-18T12:47:00.001-04:00

The Evergreen Association Outreach Team were spotted at the St. Patrick's Day Parade. Team members distributed two thousand safer sex condom packets... great job!

ACS in the News

2009-03-09T15:34:00.003-04:00

ACS Director of Southern Tier Services Laurie Matson gets a mention in two excellent stories about HIV and testing that have appeared in the Jamestown Post-Journal recently. Click HERE and HERE to read the full stories. Great job Laurie!

ACS Makes a Splash at Mardi Gras!

2009-03-03T12:48:00.006-05:00

The ACS outreach team made a splash at their first appearance in Buffalo's annual Mardi Gras parade. ACS and Pride Center staff, volunteers and friends donned colorful masks, feathers, capes and sparkles to spread the prevention message to Mardi Gras revelers, and by the end of the parade more than 1200 condom packets* had been distributed. The team even made the front page of the Buffalo News' local section! Great job, guys!

* condom packets include condoms and lube along with instructions for proper condom use, safer sex guidelines and information on HIV testing.

Gene Therapy Advances and HIV

2009-02-27T13:58:00.003-05:00

From New Scientist:

"Imagine going into the hospital with HIV and receiving a single treatment that knocks the virus on the head for good. That dream may come true sooner than we thought following a flurry of progress in gene therapy. The story begins with a man in Germany who last week was reported to be free of HIV following a bone marrow transplant. The donor was known to have two copies of a gene that prevents HIV from invading white blood cells. For the first time, it may be possible to eliminate the virus from the body, as opposed to simply keeping it in check with antiretroviral therapies (ART)."

Read the rest of the story HERE.

Food Express Delivers!

2009-02-23T09:58:00.005-05:00

The Food Bank of Western New York has designated the Evergreen Center as a Food Express Delivery site. On February 26 at 10:00 a.m. a refrigerated Food Express truck will distribute perishable food items (produce, meats and dairy products) on a first come, first served basis. The food is available to everyone - there are no income or residency restrictions, and since future Food Express deliveries will be based on demand, we encourage as many people as possible to take advantage of this service on the 26th. Help us spread the word! The Evergreen Center will host the Food Express truck on the fourth Thursday of every month. Note: bags will not be available, so please bring your own bags or boxes to transport the food. UPDATE: over 170 households took advantage of the Food Express program at ACS.

ACS on Parade

2009-02-21T17:41:00.004-05:00

Heads Up: If you're at the Artvoice Mardi Gras Parade, watch out for the ACS float. We'll have photos here at the Forum as soon as possible.

2009-02-17T16:21:00.008-05:00

We're open late! The Evergreen Center offers HIV testing services "after hours" until 7:00 p.m. on Tuesdays, along with STD screening, syringe exchange, HIV risk counseling, condoms/safety supplies and information about drug and alcohol treatment. All services are FREE and confidential. The Evergreen Center is located at 206 South Elmwood Avenue at Chippewa Street in downtown Buffalo.