Antonius "Tony" Melton, founder of Project CKC (Clothing Kills Cancer), shares the deeply personal story that inspired his purpose-driven apparel brand and nonprofit mission. After losing his father to cancer, Tony committed to helping patients and families struggling with medical and prescription costs. Through clothing sales, community fundraisers, and direct outreach, Project CKC provides financial assistance while raising awareness in creative, stigma-free ways. Tony discusses building a brand with meaning, the challenges of nonprofit work, and his vision for becoming Western New York’s leading purpose-driven fashion brand.

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In this episode of 716 Together, Dr. Michael Merrill explains that a hantavirus case associated with a cruise ship is unlikely to spread widely and is far less contagious than viruses like COVID‑19. He notes that hantavirus is primarily contracted through exposure to airborne particles from rodent droppings, not casual person-to-person contact, and while rare, it can become serious once symptoms begin, progressing from flu-like illness to severe respiratory problems. The discussion emphasizes simple prevention steps—such as ventilating areas, disinfecting contaminated surfaces, avoiding vacuuming rodent waste, and wearing protective masks—while also reminding listeners to maintain overall health through regular exercise, social connection, and relying on trusted medical sources for accurate information.

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Kimberly Wilson, founder of Hope & Joy Food Pantry, joins 716 Together to share how her organization is redefining food pantry services in Western New York. Serving hundreds of families each month, Hope & Joy emphasizes dignity, accessibility, and client choice through online ordering, weekly pickup options, and delivery-friendly service for seniors and people with disabilities. Kimberly also highlights the pantry’s thriving community garden, which produces thousands of pounds of organic heirloom vegetables, and discusses upcoming inclusive fundraisers designed to bring the community together while supporting food security.

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Shelly Gerovac of the Smallwood Garden Club joins 716 Together to preview the club’s annual spring plant sale and share the mission behind this long-standing nonprofit organization. Founded in 1956, the club focuses on education, conservation, and community connection through gardening. Shelly explains what makes their plant sale special—expert advice from master gardeners, lovingly grown plants, and an inviting atmosphere for gardeners of all experience levels. The episode also explores seasonal planting tips, butterfly gardens, upcoming educational meetings, and the joy of learning through trial, error, and shared passion.

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In this episode of 716 Together, host Tammy Lee Demler sits down with Dr. Michael Cummings—Vice Chair of Psychiatry at the University at Buffalo and a national leader in autism care—to explore autism awareness, early diagnosis, and the realities families face navigating services. Dr. Cummings shares his unexpected career journey, explains changes in autism prevalence, emphasizes the critical importance of early intervention, and addresses common questions about screening tools, treatment options, and new medications. The conversation highlights both the challenges and the hope in supporting individuals with autism across the lifespan, with practical guidance for parents, caregivers, and providers alike.

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In this episode of 716 Together, host Tammie Lee Demler speaks with Andy Yates, Executive Director of the National MS Society’s Upstate New York Chapter, and Rachel Hohl, Board of Trustees member and MS advocate. The conversation highlights the mission of the National MS Society, the importance of early diagnosis, and the reality that there is “no one face of MS.” Rachel shares her personal journey living with relapsing‑remitting multiple sclerosis, offering an honest and hopeful perspective. The episode also spotlights community engagement through events like Walk MS Buffalo and Bike MS, illustrating how collective support, fundraising, and awareness fuel research, services, and empowerment for people affected by MS.

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This episode of 716 Together features Michael Sawyer, Forestry Manager at the Buffalo Olmsted Parks Conservancy, in a conversation centered on urban forestry, conservation, and community involvement. Michael explains the vital role the Conservancy plays in maintaining Buffalo’s historic park system, shares insight into the year‑round work of managing thousands of trees, and discusses the upcoming Arbor Day Tree Expo at Cazenovia Park. Listeners learn about tree care, native species, invasive pests like the emerald ash borer, and why preserving Buffalo’s tree canopy matters for safety, beauty, and environmental health. The episode invites families, nature lovers, and curious locals to connect more deeply with the city’s green spaces.

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In this episode of 716 Together, host Tammie Lee Demler sits down with Stephan Anderman, Corps Director of the Hamburg Kingsmen Drum and Bugle Corps, to explore the rich history and vibrant future of this iconic Western New York organization. From its 1927 roots with the Hamburg Fire Department to its upcoming 100th anniversary, Stephan shares how the Kingsmen preserve traditional drum corps music while welcoming new generations of musicians. The conversation covers performances, community engagement, veteran support, the Buglers Hall of Fame, and plans for a bold centennial celebration—including the ambitious goal of 100 brass players on the field. It’s a look at music, connection, and tradition that continues to bring people together across generations.

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