The cancellation of major events and fundraisers due to the ongoing pandemics has made it a challenging year for the West Seneca Chamber of Commerce, a nonprofit business organization of approximately 270 members. But in an effort to generate new revenue, the organization is turning to some unique West Seneca-themed products.
The products will be unveiled during the annual West Seneca PBA Car Show from 12 to 4 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 6, on the grounds surrounding West Seneca Town Hall. The Chamber will also hold a large basket raffle at the same time. Funds raised will be used for future Chamber programming.
“Everyone loves the commemorative plates that we have on display in our office featuring the artwork of the late Stan Smigiera,” said Chamber Executive Director Joe Kirchmyer, “so we reached out to his son Brian and received permission to reproduce the West Seneca artwork from those plates onto different items and then sell those items as a means of raising funds for the Chamber. Brian was pleased to know how much his father’s work is still appreciated. Not a week goes by that someone doesn’t stop in our office to talk about the plate collection.”
With permission granted, the Chamber turned to two local artisans to reproduce the 16-piece collection of Smigiera’s artwork onto lanterns and coasters. The lanterns, created by Maura Beres of Catch a Falling Jar, come in black or white, and consumers can select four pieces of Smigiera’s historic artwork to adorn the panels, or choose from a selection of pre-made lanterns. The lanterns light up using three AAA batteries, which are included with purchase.
The coasters, created by artist Stuart Goodman of Impress Apparel, will be sold in sets of four, and once again the consumer will be able to select four pieces of West Seneca artwork to create a custom set, or choose from a selection of pre-made coasters.
The 16 pieces of historic artwork include: Bellwood School, Community of True Inspiration of Ebenezer, Ebenezer School #1, Fourteen Holy Helpers Church, Gardenville Fire District #2, Glassworks, Leins Park, Leydecker Bridge, Library, Seneca Indian, St. Peter’s United Church, Toll Gate, Town Hall, Trolley Car, Vigilant Fire Co. and West Seneca Post Office.
Additionally, the West Seneca Chamber of Commerce is working with Goodman to produce the very first of what will become an annual collectible — a West Seneca holiday ornament! The 2020 ornament will feature Smigiera’s artwork of Fourteen Holy Helpers Church and St. Peter’s United Church. Ornaments will come in two shapes, Christmas tree and wreath.
Lanterns and coaster sets will be priced at $25 each. Ornaments can be purchased at a cost of just $10 each. All prices include sales tax.
A limited number of pre-made coasters, lanterns and ornaments will be available for purchase during the West Seneca PBA Car Show. In the event of a sellout, orders will be taken. Payment is due at the time the order is placed. When ready, orders can be picked up at the Chamber of Commerce office, typically within two weeks. Cash or check payments are preferred, but credit cards will also be accepted.
“We are very excited to work with these talented local artisans to bring the work of West Seneca artist Stan Smigiera back into the limelight,” Kirchmyer added. “If these products are successful, we will look to expand our sales efforts to include other items that will help shine a spotlight our town. We think they will be very popular for the upcoming holiday season, especially for current residents, formers residents who may have moved away and miss their hometown, and local businesses and organizations that just want to support and promote our local community.”
Additionally, the Chamber’s third annual West Seneca Community Guide and second annual Discount Card will also be available for the first time at the PBA Car Show. The 16-page, full-color Community Guide, featuring stories and information about the West Seneca community, are free of charge.
The Chamber Discount Cards, available for a $5 donation, feature special offers from 20 Chamber members. The cards can be used repeatedly and are valid from September 2020 through December 2021.
Businesses represented on the discount cards include Bases Loaded Sports Collectibles, Best Value Wine & Liquors, Eileen’s Bakery, Elle Therapeutic Massage, Freewheel Mobile Bike Shop, Gardenville Blooms, Great Lakes Pizza, Just Pizza, MAC Fitness 100, Paula’s Donuts, Plain Jayne’s Gift Shop, Pre-Owned Pros, Queen City Meadery, Retro World Toys and Games, Rusty Nickel Brewing Co., Schwabl’s, Shell Fab Countertops & Casework, Spices & Teas by Milly, Spot Coffee and West Seneca Chamber of Commerce.
Finally, Chamber staff will also be holding a basket auction during the PBA Car Show. Tickets will be priced at $2 each, three for $5 or 15 for $10.
For more information, please call the Chamber at 674-4900, visit westseneca.org or stop by the Chamber office in the West Seneca Community Center & Library. Office hours are 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. weekdays, and by appointment.
