• Read more about the Judge Joseph S. Mattina Community Health Center at kaleidahealth.org/mattina

BUFFALO, N.Y. - February 27, 2004 - Kaleida Health, Western New York's largest healthcare provider, today held a renaming ceremony and unveiled the new "Judge Joseph S. Mattina Community Health Center," on Niagara Street on the city's West Side. The facility is situated on the site of the former Buffalo Columbus Hospital, which served West Side residents for decades.

"As the hospital's Board Chairman, Judge Mattina actively fought to keep the facility open, despite numerous financial and operational obstacles in the early 1990's," said William D. McGuire, Kaleida's President and Chief Executive Officer. His commitment led to the revision of this site and the continuation of good, accessible healthcare for this community."

Mattina, born and raised on Buffalo's West Side, served as Erie County Surrogate Judge for 21 years before retiring in 2003. He is credited for inspiring the merger with Buffalo General Hospital in 1996. This decision helped the Niagara Street site eventually became the Columbus Community Health Center.

"Judge Mattina is a fixture in our community and his benevolence and leadership have served the citizens of Western New York well," said County Executive Joel A. Giambra. "The announcement to re-name this facility the Joseph S. Mattina Community Health Center is a testament to him and all of his good work."

"We are very proud and privileged to honor Judge Mattina in this manner," said Mayor Anthony M. Masiello. "His remarkable commitment to the delivery of quality health care to Buffalo's West Side community is exemplary. The fact that facility will bear his name is a lasting tribute to his vision, his passion, and his hard work on behalf of the community he loves."

Judge Mattina's 39-year distinguished legal career includes time spent on the bench in Buffalo City Court, Erie County Court, and New York State Supreme Court. He currently serves as Chief Executive Officer of Counseling Financial Services in Amherst. He and his wife Barbara have three children, Jackie, Dylan and Todd.