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ARCHIVES - WEEK OF JULY 29, 2012

LOCAL NEWS - WEEK OF JULY 29, 2012

Board members vote that Parma Deputy Highway Superintendent doesn’t meet residency requirements

by Kristina Gabalski

Leaders in Parma have taken the first step to prepare the Town Board in the event it is sued or pursues legal action on behalf of the town regarding a personnel issue in the Highway Department.

Town Board members voted unanimously during a special meeting July 23 on a resolution that their legal counsel James Holahan of Bond Schoeneck & King called a “functional step.”

He says no legal action has been taken yet by either side. “The town hasn’t been served and so far as we know nothing has been filed,” Holahan said.

Supervisor Carm Carmestro said the Town Board took the action in order to legally defend themselves against the possibility of a lawsuit by the Town Highway Superintendent.

Carmestro told the Suburban News that the board was threatened with a lawsuit following their action at a Town Board meeting July 17 when board members, “recognized ... that the office of Deputy Highway Superintendent is vacant by operation of law, because the person appointed to that office is not a town resident.”

The town did not delete or abolish the Deputy Highway Superintendent position, Supervisor Carmestro explained.

The position of Deputy Highway Superintendent is a “public office,” he said and as such, any person appointed to that position must be a town resident.

“In fact, under New York Public Officer’s Law Section 30, the office is deemed vacant by operation law whenever the incumbent officer is not a resident of the Town of Parma,” Supervisor Carmestro said.

He explained that in April, he asked the Deputy Highway Superintendent to provide the Town Board with proof that he is a resident of the town.

“I extended the time to provide that information for several months,” Carmestro said. “The Town Board did not receive any evidence that the Deputy Highway Superintendent is a town resident and the information available to the town indicates that he resides in another suburban town.”

The Town Board is considering the possibility of establishing the position of Commissioner of Public Works - which would be an appointed position - Carmestro added, but there has been no action yet on the issue.

7/29/12


CERT training begins in September

The 27th Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) course will be offered by the Homeland Security Management Institute of Monroe Community College through a grant to the Monroe County Office of Emergency Management. The primary focus of this offering will be to train residents of Monroe County and the Rochester Region Urban Area Security Initiative (UASI) which includes Wayne, Ontario, Livingston and Orleans counties. There are 25 seats available for candidates who are at least eighteen years of age. Registrations will be accepted on a “first-come, first-served” basis until seats are filled. The first seven modules are required for graduation.

Training will consist of three-hour modules, taught over an eight-week period with classes meeting on Wednesday evenings from 6 to 9 p.m. All modules of instruction will begin promptly at 6 p.m. Due to the volume of information presented during each module, it is requested that all participants arrive in the classroom a few minutes early. Training will take place at the Monroe Community College Public Safety Training Facility (PSTF) located at 1190 Scottsville Road. Signs will be posted in the hallways each evening indicating the specific classroom training location.

•September 26 - Disaster Preparedness, Local Emergency Ops

•October 3 - Fire Suppression/Safety

•October 10 - Disaster Medical Operations 1

•October 17 - Disaster Medical Operations 2

•October 24 - Search & Rescue Operations

•October 31 - Disaster Psychology

•November 7 - Disaster Simulation, Final Exam, Graduation

•November 14 - #8 - Adult Cardio Pulmonary Resuscitation and Automated External Defibrillator (CRP/AED) - Optional Module

Participants will be issued a backpack containing Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) and should wear comfortable, weather appropriate clothing and durable footwear (e.g. no open toed shoes or sandals) to each class. Some modules (e.g. Fire Suppression/Safety and Disaster Simulation) involve an outdoor practical exercise for which everyone should dress for weather conditions. The first evening will be spent entirely indoors.

All training, equipment and supplies including CPR/AED certification, will be provided free of charge.

Refreshments will be provided the first evening of training. We will discuss options for the remaining course modules to determine what the class, as a whole, would like to do. Past classes have distributed a sign up list and shared responsibility for bringing in snacks for the remaining sessions, according to information provided by Sgt. Chris Mears of the Ogden Police Department.

This course requires a high level of commitment, Mears stated. Participants must successfully complete all seven modules, the disaster simulation exercise and final exam to graduate CERT training.

For information contact Glenn V. Greibus, Program Coordinator, Homeland Security Management Institute, Monroe Community College, 585-753-3784.

Provided information

7/29/12


Court appearance for Brockport mayor adjourned to August 14

by Kristina Gabalski

Brockport Mayor Connie Castaneda is scheduled to return to Ogden Town Court August 14. An appearance scheduled for July 24 was adjourned until the August date, court clerk Erin Megalo said.

Criminal and civil charges against Castaneda were initiated in March by Brockport Police Chief Daniel Varrenti and Building/Code Enforcement Officer Scott Zarnstorff following citizen complaints and an investigation concerning the alleged rental use of the mayor’s property at 332 Main Street.

Castaneda has been cited for violations of the Brockport Zoning and Building Codes, and the Property Maintenance Code of the State of New York - including an illegal change of occupancy (rental), failure to apply for a permit concerning building alteration, failure to register a rental property, violation of the certificate of occupancy for the property, and/or failure to have an inspection of the property incidental to a change of use.

Criminal charges against the mayor include 14 separate counts of Official Misconduct arising out of her alleged illegal rental of her property at 332 Main Street that constitute failure to perform her duties as mayor - in the enforcement of local zoning laws as required by section 4-400 of the New York State Village Law, Special Counsel Frank Aloi stated in a release dated July 25.

During a special meeting held July 19, trustees hired Robert J. Lunn, a former NYS Supreme Court and Appellate Division Justice, as special prosecutor representing the village to prosecute the pending civil zoning and building code violations against the mayor in the Town of Ogden Court.

The village will pay Attorney Lunn a $5,000 retainer. Minutes from the July 19 meeting state Lunn will bill his time for services against the retainer at a rate of $200/hr. for both out of court and in court time.

The meeting minutes also state Attorney Frank Aloi, Attorney Lunn and Police Chief Daniel Varrenti met in executive session with trustees during the meeting.

Village attorney Robert Leni has recused himself from representing the village concerning the pending charges.

Aloi was hired by trustees at a special meeting June 12 as special counsel to the trustees (other than the mayor) concerning the Notices of Claim filed by Mayor Castaneda and Norm Giancursio against the village and any litigation commenced by either or both based on their Notices of Claim, “and to advise the trustees concerning the pending criminal and civil charges involving the mayor,” Aloi said.

“A lawsuit based on the Notices of Claim must be filed within one year after the filing of the Notices of Claim,” Aloi said. “It is believed that ultimately, the filing of a complaint against the village will depend upon the outcome of the pending criminal charges against May-or Castaneda and Norman Giancursio.”

Giancursio is charged with second degree Reckless Endangerment relating to a fire at 332 Main Street in March of 2011 and his alleged actions during that fire.

Aloi and Lunn agreed to undertake their representation of the village at reduced rates of compensation, Aloi said.

Lunn appeared in Ogden Town Court on July 24 on behalf of the village.

Lawyers for Mayor Castaneda and Giancursio have called the charges brought against the two a “political hatchet job.”

7/29/12



FEATURE STORIES - WEEK OF JULY 29, 2012

Bergen author’s new book addresses concerns of seniors

by Kristina Gabalski

Kathleen FinkSeniors and their adult children will find plenty of help and guidance in a new book by Bergen resident and Lakeside Hospital Emergency Department nurse Kathleen Fink, RN, CEN.

The Golden Years: Keeping Up the Fight - Helping Seniors Maintain Well-Being, covers various topics of concern to older adults including housing options, emergency preparedness, diet regimes and general health and fitness considerations.

Like her first book, It’s My Baby! What Do I Do?, The Golden Years, published by Evenhouse Printing, LLC in Hamburg, NY, is an easy-to-read guide and includes color photographs.

“I see people struggling with changes while aging and their children trying to help,” Fink says. “The purpose of the book is to get information out there in simplified form, for seniors and their adult children, to help steer them to the right things to keep them self-sufficient, independent and safe.”

Fink says this book has a different feel than her first one on babies because, “With babies, you know they will progress and get better. With seniors, you know things are going to decline in the future, but don’t know when that will be.”

Chapters focus on avoiding emergencies and being pro-active - including information on health care proxies and Medical Orders for Life Sustaining Treatment forms as well as activities for stimulating the mind and body. Diets including gluten-free; dental soft diets and low-purine diets (for gout). Fink also provides specifics on when to call the pharmacist, doctor and 911.

The Golden Years is available at Lift Bridge Books and the Lakeside Memorial Hospital gift shop.Other chapters focus on what to do when your home becomes too much work and what housing options are available; changes in memory and mobility; when to stop driving and managing pain.

Fink says she knows these decisions can be difficult, especially regarding when to leave your home or give up the car keys, but she notes these changes don’t have to mean giving up your independence. “You’re not just stuck when you give up the keys,” she says, “there are lift line buses, cabs, and rides from family and friends. It used to be called asking favors, now it’s called networking.”

There’s even a chapter devoted to tips from seniors. One especially helpful suggestion Fink says, is to leave a note on the counter or dry erase board about where you are when you’ve gone out - including the time you left and expect to return. This can be very helpful for others in the household or for those who might be checking in on you.

The book includes a magnetized pocket which can be removed and stuck on the fridge to store emergency information.

Fink adds that her books clearly indicate when situations need to be referred to a doctor.

“It’s been exciting and fun,” writing the books, Fink says. She has already completed additional books, but they are not yet in print.

Her first book on baby care has been printed in Spanish for use in outreach programs by agencies and SUNY campuses that assist local migrant groups, Fink adds.

The Golden Years is available for $13.99 at Lift Bridge Books and the Lakeside Hospital gift shop in Brockport. Fink also has a website - www.simplyhealth.biz - where you can connect with her, and order the books on-line.

7/29/12


Community marks contributions of the late Monika Andrews

by Kristina Gabalski

Former Brockport mayor Mary Ann Thorpe speaks to those gathered for the dedication of Monika W. Andrews Children's Park Saturday, July 21.The sun shone brightly on Monika Andrews Day in Brockport, Saturday, July 21.

Family, friends and community members gathered for a series of events honoring Monika, who died last fall after battling a brain tumor.

The day began at 10 a.m. with a dedication ceremony at the newly named Monika W. Andrews Children’s Park at the corner of Holley and Utica Streets. Monika worked as a member of the Brockport Parks Committee to develop the playground which became the first handicapped accessible playground in Monroe County.

Former mayor Mary Ann Thorpe acted as mistress of ceremonies.

“I rarely drive by that I don’t see children playing here,” she said of the park. “Today we celebrate the many differences Monika Andrews made in our lives, particularly for children.”

The main room at the Monika W. Andrews Food Shelf located at St. Luke's Church. The facility now allows for a client choice feature for provisions.Monika’s husband, Bill, a village trustee, said the playground illustrates Monika’s style of volunteer leadership, “which was one of her most admirable qualities,” he said.

Andrews said his wife spent much time researching handicapped-accessible playgrounds, play equipment and also worked to obtain grant money to help pay for the project.

“She devoted her whole life to serving the needy,” he said.

Brockport Mayor Connie Castaneda unveiled the name plaque for the park which is mounted on stone from Iroquois Rock Products.

At 10:16 a.m., Police Chief Daniel Varrenti shared a message broadcast over his police radio: that the park will now be dispatched as Monika Andrews Children’s Park for the Monroe County Sheriff’s Department, the Brockport Police Department and The College at Brockport Police Department.

At 11 a.m., the dedication of the Monika W. Andrews Food Shelf Main Room was held at the Brockport Ecumenical Food Shelf located at St. Luke’s Episcopal Church.

The ceremonies were overseen by James Pray, president of the Food Shelf.

Brockport Mayor Connie Castaneda unveils plaque dedicating Monika W. Andrews Children's Park Saturday, July 21. “Everyday is Monika Day,” Pray said, particularly at the Food Shelf, noting Monika’s work to establish the client-choice approach now utilized “where people can come in and shop for themselves.”

Pray said he recently talked with some of Monika’s grandchildren, who told him they plan to help out at the Food Shelf when they get older.

“Then her grandchildren took the change out of their pockets and put it in (a donation container),” Pray said.

“We’ve had nothing but positive feedback from clients,” he added about the new client choice set-up, after unveiling the plaque naming the room in honor of Monika.

Bill Andrews said his wife worked to establish the client centered approach at the Food Shelf’s former location in the basement of the parish house at the Church of the Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary but when it became clear that it would not work, “she went looking and St. Luke’s generously offered,” he said.

Brockport Parks Committee members enjoy a new swing in Monika W. Andrews Children's Park donated by BISCO. Commitee Chair Andrea Perry said the swing is a great place for mothers watching their children, seniors and even teenagers. It is the latest addition to the park. L-R: Trustee Kent Blair, Village Board Liaison to the Parks Committee, Hanny Heyen, Sandi Henschel, Andrea Perry; standing: Anita Wicks, Pam Ketchum. Pray said the Food Shelf currently serves 150 families - a number that has doubled since the Food Shelf moved to St. Luke’s.

“We’re going to start our own fundraising opportunities,” he said.

Two events are planned for the fall: An Evening of Music on Friday, September 28 at 7:30 p.m. at St. Luke’s with Emory Morris, baritone and Margaret Johnson, piano; and a 5K fun run/walk - Make a Difference Against Hunger - on The College at Brockport campus at 9 a.m. on October 27.

Monika Andrews Day continued Saturday afternoon with an interment ceremony at High Street Cemetery officiated by The Rev. Douglas Stewart at 2 p.m. and a Remembrance Gathering at 3 p.m. in the Blue Room, Edwards Hall, at The College at Brockport.

 

Members of Monika's family, Bill in the center.


 

Photographs by Kristina Gabalski

7/29/12


Two earn Girl Scout Awards

Girl Scout Gold Award recipients Camaria Long (left) and Amber Michaels (right) shown with Girls Scout Troop 461 leader Jody Grant. Provided photoCamaria Long and Amber Michaels were honored at the Girl Scout Gold Award Luncheon in Buffalo.

Amber Michaels is the daughter of Elise and Robert Michaels. For her project, Amber organized girls to move the existing children’s garden at Genesee Valley Farm Discovery Center and a new, thriving garden was planted. Her project also included coordinating rock painting and garden-themed story time programs for young visitors.

Amber is a graduate of Spencerport High School and she has been accepted into MCC’s 2+2 program with Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute. She’s studying Engineering Sciences at MCC and plans to study Electrical Engineering at RPI.

Camaria Long is the daughter of Aaronda Clarkson and Christopher Long. Her gold award project was completed at Church of the Epiphany in Gates where she organized a church service run by the youth of the parish which had parishioners from two years old to 80 dancing in the pews. It was so well received that many parishioners requested that it become a regular part of the church calendar at least twice a year.

Camaria is a recent graduate of Aquinas Institute. She signed a letter of intent to run Division I women’s track at the University at Buffalo where she will pursue a degree in nursing in the fall.

7/29/12


Area dentist joins in 9/11 Memorial Ride

by Kristina Gabalski

Dr. Steven Thompson will again this year ride in a motorcycle ride to three 9/11 sites. He is shown in New York City for the 2011 ride to the 9/11 Memorial. Bikers filled 7th Avenue as they awaited departure. Provided photoFor a second year, Steven Thompson, D.D.S., whose dental practice is located in the Village of Holley, will participate in America’s 9/11 Foundation Motorcycle Ride.

He calls the experience, “fascinating and moving.”

The ride will take place this year August 16-19. It begins in Pennsylvania and stops at all three 9/11 memorials - Shanksville, PA, where Flight 93 crashed; the Pentagon in Washington, DC and the 9/11 Memorial at the World Trade Center in Manhattan.

Dr. Thompson says the three-day event honors the lives of those who died on September 11, 2001 and raises funds to support active first responders.

“Riders come from all over the country,” he says, “a group from Spencerport consists of 80-100 riders ... most are firemen, EMS and police.”

Anyone who wants to join the ride is welcome, Dr. Thompson says. This year the number of riders is limited to one thousand. For the tenth anniversary of 9/11 in 2011, there were two thousand riders.

“It’s a good bunch of people and they raise a lot of money for a good cause,” Dr. Thompson says.

Riders are escorted by police agencies along their route in a show of support as well as for safe passage, pictured here on Interstate 95 en route between the Pentagon and NYC, Saturday, August 20, 2011. Provided photoBecause the 9/11 Foundation is run almost entirely by volunteers, 90 percent of funds raised go directly to support first responders, their departments and families, including a college scholarship program for graduating seniors.

Dr. Thompson says $180,000 in scholarships have be awarded to children of first responders. “Our local volunteer fire departments are eligible,” he notes. “Fifteen scholarships were awarded this year.”

A wreath is laid and a memorial service is held at each of the sites, Dr. Thompson says. Last year the ride could not get into the World Trade Center memorial because work was being completed for the tenth anniversary. This year they will have access to the memorial and Dr. Thompson says the memorial in Shanksville will also be complete. “It will be dramatically different,” he says.

The ride has a police escort which allows highways to be closed off as the ride passes through.

Last year’s ride was “long, hot and tiring,” Dr. Thompson says, but he was, “amazed by the turnout. People were very supportive, they were waving flags and banners, it was encouraging.”

Dr. Thompson regularly closes his office on September 11 and gives his employees a paid day off.

“I tell them to take the day off and appreciate your family. That’s the lasting legacy (of 9/11) for all of us. It changed your perception of the way things are. It’s important to honor the day.”

As of July 23, there were still openings for those wishing to take part in the ride. Donations are also gratefully accepted. Dr. Thompson has a link on his websites: www.thompsondentalcare.com or www.mysmiledoctor.com.

7/29/12


Children's Walkathon to be part of Brockport Arts Festival

The Walk! Bike! Brockport! Action Group, aided by the Brockport High School Honor Society, is sponsoring a children’s walkathon relay race at the Brockport Arts Festival this year. Children will be grouped by age into relay teams. The relay teams will walk on a course on Market Street in Brockport. Age groups will be 5-6, 7-9, and 10-12.

The race will be held on Saturday, August 11. Registration will be at 9:45 a.m. on Market Street, and the races will begin at 10:30 a.m. Winning teams will receive award certificates.

The Walk! Bike! Brockport! Action Group supports walking as a healthy, fun way to stay fit.

Provided information

7/29/12


Oak Orchard Lighthouse festival includes program by local writer

On the afternoon of August 4 from 2 to 3 p.m., the Oak Orchard Lighthouse hosts an Afternoon Tea, “Simply Messing About in Boats” with Craig Wilson, a feature writer and weekly columnist for USA Today. Random House has published his collection of columns entitled, “It’s the Little Things: An Appreciation of Life’s Simple Pleasures.” Craig grew up in Orleans County and spent many summers messing about in boats at Point Breeze. He graduated from Lyndonville High School in 1967 and is the son of June Wilson and the late Roy Wilson.

The presentation will take place at the Haines Cottage on Ontario Street at Point Breeze, just east of the Lighthouse. Reservations are required with a donation of $20 per person. Contact Dick Anderson at 585-682-4383, or reserve on line at www.oakorchardlighthouse.org.

The Oak Orchard Lighthouse Festival runs from noon to 4 p.m. August 4, Orleans County Marine Park in Kent. Crafts and food will be on site and a wine tasting conducted by Schwenk Wine Cellars are part of the day.

Provided information

7/29/12


 

 

 

 

The 2012 Hilton Fire Department Kiddie King and Queen, William Green and Abigail Lane, are joined by Chief Joe Lissow.

Provided photo

7/29/12



SPORTS NEWS - WEEK OF JULY 29, 2012

AREA

Hunter Safety course scheduled in Parma

Instructors certified by the Department of Environmental Conservation will conduct a Hunter Safety Course August 20, 22 and 25 at the North Star Sportsman’s Club in Hamlin. Those interested in attending need to register in-person at the Clerk’s Office, Town of Parma, located at 1300 Hilton Parma Corners Road, Hilton, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Friday.

The free course is required for first time hunters who wish to obtain a New York State hunting license. Safe firearm handling combined with responsible and ethical hunter conduct will be covered. Pre-course work is required and space is limited so it is recommended to register early.

Students must be a resident of New York state. The instructors prefer students be eligible to hunt (12 years or older) as of August 20. A parent or legal guardian may need to accompany and register students younger than 16 years of age. Proof of age may be requested. Registration is handled on a first-come first-served basis.

For information on this course contact the Town of Parma Clerk’s Office at 585-392-9461. For information on other courses call the Department of Environmental Conservation, Region 8 Headquarters at 585-226-2466 or visit the DEC website at http://www.dec.state.ny.us

Provided information

7/29/12


BERGEN

Bergen foot race attracts runners of all levels

by Kristina Gabalski

The Jenny Kuzma Memorial Bergen 5km has been growing in both participation and prestige over the past several years.

This year’s race is set for Saturday, August 11, at 8:30 a.m. at Hickory Park in the village. Organizer Eric Boyce says so far, 2010 was the largest race with 330 people signed up and 290 finishers. This year’s race is looking to top those numbers.

“The race is ahead of registration numbers from last year and in 2010 when the race had its largest turnout,” he says.

The Bergen 5km is part of the GRTC Rochester Runner of the Year Series, is sanctioned by USA Track & Field (USATF) and this year is hosting the 2012 USATF Niagara Association Championships, Boyce notes.

“USA Track & Field is the national governing body for track and field, long- distance running (including cross country and mountain-ultra-trail running) and race walking in the United States,” Boyce said. “The USATF Niagara Association territory is defined as the State of New York west of and including the counties of Oswego, Onondaga, Cortland and Broome. This includes the metropolitan areas of Buffalo, Rochester, Syracuse, Jamestown, Ithaca and Binghamton. USATF encompasses the world’s oldest organized sports, the most watched events of Olympic broadcasts, the number one high school and junior high school participatory sport and more than 30 million adult runners in the United States.”

Because the Bergen 5km is hosting the USATF Niagara Championship this year, USATF Niagara is putting in an additional $2,900 in prize money, Boyce says.

In Western and Central New York, only the Chris Thater 5 km, held in Binghamton, is usually more competitive than the Bergen 5km; however, last year, Boyce says, the Bergen 5km was the most competitive.

“The race attracts runners from Syracuse, Rochester, Buffalo, international athletes, and some runners from out of state,” Boyce says.

The race is for all levels and gets elite runners who are trying to make Olympic Teams, “but the race also gets everyday runners who are just running for fun, run only a couple of times a week, joggers, first-time runners (and joggers), and walkers,” he says.

Last year’s winner was Linus Chumba of Nyack, NY (Kenya native) with a new course record time of 14:24. Maegan Krifchin of Syracuse - one of the top female USA runners who qualified for the Olympic trials for the marathon (which took place in January) - also set a course record for women with a time of 16:29.

Boyce says the 5km race will have five to eight music spots to entertain runners during the race.

“The race will also feature a raffle to give everyone a chance to win great prizes and will also be a way to raise more money for the scholarship and Camp Good Days,” he says.

Everyone who enters the race will receive raffle tickets. The sooner you register, the more tickets you get, Boyce says.

He adds that raffle tickets can be purchased the day of the race and prizes range from gift certificates to a pair of shoes.

The race has 40 sponsors including Power Bar and Wegmans, Boyce says. Triple O Mechanical is sponsoring a 3km $75 prize for the first male and female to reach the 3km mark. CIT Network Solutions is sponsoring a course record bonus.

“If a runner finishes in the top 50, they will win a pint glass or a performance dry fit running shirt with the Bergen 5k logo on it,” Boyce says. “Not many races give awards for finishing in the top 50.”

The race is named for Jenny Kuzma, who died at the age of 13 in 1990 after a nearly ten year battle with leukemia. Proceeds from the race go to a scholarship given to an 8th grade student at Byron-Bergen. This year’s proceeds will be divided between the scholarship and Camp Good Days and Special Times.

An on-line registration form is available at www.bergenroadrace.com. Registration fees are $15 by July 29; $20 by August 10; $25 day of race.

7/29/12


BROCKPORT 

Stoker serves as Zweigle’s honorary coach of the game 

Brockport’s Alex Stoker, a second grader at Barclay School, served as the Zweigle’s Honorary Coach of the Game at Frontier Field for the Red Wings July 24 matchup with the Syracuse Chiefs.

Stoker, 6, accompanied manager Gene Glynn out to the home plate area to present the Red Wings lineup to the umpires and Chiefs manager Tony Beasley.

Stoker’s favorite Red Wings are the entire team and his favorite school subject is math.

 

 

Provided photo

7/29/12


 

SCHOOL DISTRICT NEWS - WEEK OF JULY 29, 2012

AREA

Floating field trip catches students’ interest

Brockport AP Biology student Jake Parsons (left) works with BOCES 2 student Jason Pette at the water testing station. Provided photoThirty-three middle and high school students from BOCES 2 spent a day aboard the Harbor Town Belle conducting scientific research on the ecosystems of the Genesee River and Lake Ontario.

Students in Mackenzie Marr’s classroom from the Alternative High School, Danielle Manetta and Stacie Webster’s classes from the Therapeutic Day Program and Kristie Holt’s 12:1:1 class at Spencerport High School rotated through five learning stations conducting scientific research together with BOCES 2 Instructional Specialist Kathy Hoppe; AP Biology teacher Rosemary Caitlin from Brockport High School; six Brockport High School AP Biology student volunteers; BOCES 2 teacher aides; and student behavorial assistants.

“We asked students to do real world science that is minds-on and hands-on and occurs in the actual location that they are studying,” said Hoppe. “On this floating field trip the students learned a great deal about the environment of Lake Ontario and the Genesee River, and about the human impact on ecosystems.”

The stations consisted of: water testing for pH, nitrate, phosphate, coliform and dissolved oxygen; collecting a dredge sample; identifying plankton using a microscope; learning about navigation, maps, and lake history; using a fish finder and recording temperature depth. Prior to the lake and river experiments the students studied pond life to compare the different ecosystems. They will also share their findings with other student scientists who will participate in the floating field trip.

“What I like best are the stations, fishing with the fish finder and the boat,” said BOCES 2 student Demitri Dipropero.

For 10 years students have been learning about the floating field trip created by Brockport teachers Caitlin and Marian Klick (retired). For three years BOCES 2 students have participated in the field trip and because of Hoppe, Caitlin and other district science teachers the trip is now possible for even more students.

“I think that there is a passion in all of us to explore the unknown,” said Caitlin. “When students are given an opportunity to go aboard a boat to study a river’s ecosystem versus a lake’s ecosystem, it gives them a sense of accomplishment that they were a real scientific researcher for one day.” Caitlin’s AP Biology students served as instructors at each station. They completed the ecosystem research for their AP Biology coursework in October and then volunteered for the BOCES 2 field trip to share their scientific knowledge with students.

“I really like being out on this boat,” said BOCES 2 student Nassir Addison, without ever taking his eyes off the eyepiece of the microscope, as he looked at plankton from the Genesee River.

Provided information

7/29/12

 

 

 

What heat?

 

 

The Little Red Schoolhouse preschool campers find ways to beat the heat by making ‘Solar’ s’mores, riding through the sprinkler and enjoying popsicles.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Provided photos

7/29/12

 


BROCKPORT

Brockport High School Class of 1952 marks 60th reunion 

Over 40 percent of the classmates remaining joined together for the 60th reunion of the Brockport Class of 1952.

Standing: Richard (Dick) Booth, Ann Butler, Beverly (Park) Wetzel, Marvin Duryea, Pat (Corrigan) Murray, Helen (Magin) Simpson, Donald Cutton, Robert O’Brien, Thomas Donaher, Joan Delahanaty, Dot (Ferries) Meyer, Rex Horton, William Seaman, Alonzo Jacobs, Phyllis (Crowe) Roberson, Charles McCullough, Marion (Morris) Dilger, Ronald Broadbent, Ronald Hamlin; seated: Shirley (Rich) Hicks, Donna (Wheeler) O’Brien, Audy (Mank) Hess, Anita (Held) Wicks, Rita (Barringer) Webster.

Class members plan the next reunion in five years.

Provided photo

7/29/12


BYRON-BERGEN

Byron-Bergen welcomes new elementary principal

Byron-Bergen Elementary School Principal Brian Meister. Provided PhotoBrian Meister has learned that the stronger students are at reading for understanding and problem solving, the more successful they will be in high school and beyond.

As the new Byron-Bergen Elementary School principal beginning July 23, Meister says he looks forward to developing partnerships within the school culture and community through collaboration and communication with faculty, staff, parents, students, and community members.

The continued development in the areas of English Language Arts and mathematics are just a sampling of some of his goals as he enters into his new role.

Among his other goals, Meister said he will work to provide Byron-Bergen students with the knowledge, skills, and confidence to be highly successful at the secondary level.

“As the father of two elementary school students, I also recognize that elementary school is a place where children are to be encouraged to learn and explore in a safe and respectful setting,” he said.

Meister joins Byron-Bergen after serving the last four years as an assistant principal at Cosgrove Middle School and the 6 to 12 grade math coordinator for Spencerport Central School District.

Before working for Spencerport, Meister served as an assistant principal at Newark Middle School for two years. Outside of his administrative certifications, he is certified in Special Education, K-6 Elementary Education, and Pre-K-Adulthood Reading. During Meister’s time in the classroom, he has taught second, third, fourth and sixth grades.

Provided information

7/29/12


 

OBITUARIES - WEEK OF JULY 29, 2012

CHILI

•Carroll, Patrick T., At age 72, died July 20, 2012. Survived by his loving wife of 52 years, Mary; sons, Mark of Chili, David (Kelley) of Connecticut; grandchildren, Jacob and Rachael Carroll; brother John (Debi) Carroll of New York City; sister, Mary (Fouad) Ezra of Ohio. Patrick was a retiree from R.G.& E. after 32 years of service.

Funeral Service was held at the convenience of the family. Contributions can be made to the American Diabetes Association in his memory.

 

•Krenzer, Edward L., July 18, 2012 at age 85. Predeceased by his parents and siblings. Survived by his loving wife of 58 years, Nancy; children, Edward L. Jr. (Denise), Cheryl (Donald) Sheridan, Donna Bater, Mary (John) McDonald, David (Maureen), Billy (Barb), Nancy (Tom) Guelzow, Michael (Debi) and Kevin (Roz Hickey); 17 grandchildren; four great-grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews. Ed was a retired Deputy from the Monroe County Sheriff’s Office after 20 years of service.

His Funeral Mass was said July 24 at St. Mary’s Church, Scottsville. Interment, Oatka Cemetery. Contributions can be made to Lifetime Care (Hospice), 3111 South Winton Road, Rochester 14623 or to Day Star Program, 47 Lochnavar Parkway, Pittsford 14534 in his memory.

 

•Kuzmanovski, Aleksandar, July 20, 2012 at age 76. Survived by his loving wife of 58 years, Ratka; children Mendo (Blagica), Dimce (Sonja); grandchildren, Jasmina, Marija, Tony, Darko; brother, Dusan; sisters, Lena, Zorka, Vasa and Cena; and several nieces and nephews.

A Funeral Service was held July 24 at St. Dimitria Macedonian Orthodox Church. Interment, Grove Place Cemetery, Chili.

 

CHURCHVILLE

•Lonsbury, Kenneth G. “Jerry,” July 22, 2012. Kenneth is predeceased by his daughter, Frances “Franny” Lonsbury. He is survived by his Sicilian Bride of 50 years, Mary C. Burgio Lonsbury; daughter, Helen Carapella; son, Kenneth G. II Lonsbury; grandchildren, Andrew Carapella (Jade Partridge), Maria “Bella”; sisters, Eleanor Vincent, Jackie Marianetti; extended family, Darren Plunkett, Mike and Susie Gilliland, Joe and Betty George; several nieces, nephews, cousins and dear friends.

His Funeral Mass was said July 26 at St. Theodore’s Church, Gates. Interment, Creekside Cemetery.

 

HILTON

•Pirnie, Alexander, died of kidney failure July 24, 2012 at age 80. During his 41 year business career with the New York Board of Fire Underwriters he worked his way up from adjuster to senior corporate executive; during the last 17 years of his career he held the position of CEO which included the running of the New York Fire Patrol. After retiring in 2001 he moved to Hilton. He was involved in the Lions Club, was an active member of the community, most recently the treasurer of the Hilton United Methodist Church, and involved with food banks where ever he lived. Besides fundraising and donating for the charity Bridges, Alec went on seven trips to Nicaragua and one to Nepal with his wife to physically build schools, orphanages and homes all after the age of 65.

He is survived by his wife of 55 years, Beverly; his daughter Kathy and her two children, Fae and Zac; Alex, his wife Patty and their four children, Andrew, Ross, Sarah and Evan; Bonnie Sue; Jeffrey Allen; Ginny and her husband Eugene; Shannon; Tina; and John, his son Mikie and wife Dalainy. He was instrumental in raising many other foster children, (over 20).

Contributions can be made to the Hilton Food Shelf in the Community Center at 59 Henry Street, Hilton, NY 14468 in his memory.

 

HOLLEY

•Wilson, Alvin E., age 84, died July 22, 2012 after a courageous battle with cancer. He is survived by his beloved wife of 40 years, Elizabeth; sons, Richard (Kathy), Michael, Dennis (Amy); grandchildren, Michael, Richard, Hunter, Taylor.

Funeral Services were held July 26 at the Christopher Mitchell Funeral Homes, Inc., Holley. Interment with full Military Honors at Hillside Cemetery. Contributions can be made to Medina Memorial Home Care Services, 200 Ohio Street, Medina 14103 in his memory.

 

OGDEN

•Smith, Gary, July 7, 2012 at the age of 69. Arrangements entrusted to Bartolomeo & Perotto Funeral Home.

 

SPENCERPORT

•Elton, Marjorie (Slater), of Albion, formerly of Spencerport, died July 20, 2012 at age 89. Daughter of the late Frank and Olive Slater. Predeceased by her beloved husband, Robert, of 42 years who was a Kodak engineer with many patents. She is survived by her son, William (Jeri) of Midland, Texas and her daughter, Elizabeth (Neal) Kistner of Albion. She lived in Spencerport for 47 years before moving to Albion. She leaves her sisters, a twin Dorothea Nelson, Brockport, Mary Lou Ott (Carl), of Rochester; many nieces, nephews and dear friends. She leaves her grandchildren Jay (Sara) Elton, Whitney Elton, Samantha Elton, Kelly (James) Pettit, Todd (Rebecca) Kistner, Lee (Nicole) Kistner and Matthew Kistner. She leaves her great grandchildren Ethan, Emma, Lydia, Claire, Andrew and Anna Pettit, Aiden Kistner and Benjamin Kistner.

A Funeral Service was held July 24 at the Fowler Funeral Home, Brockport. Burial in Woodlawn Cemetery, Canandaigua. Contributions can be made to an animal or veterans organization of one’s choice in her memory.



 


ARCHIVES - WEEK OF JULY 22, 2012

LOCAL NEWS - WEEK OF JULY 22, 2012

Six-month extension granted on Clarendon store’s future

by Kristina Gabalski

The historic Stone Store in Clarendon has been spared from demolition for a second time - at least for another six months.

Town Board members voted 3-1 during their regular meeting July 17 to give members of the Old Stone Store Preservation Committee (OSSPC) and the Landmark Society more time to find a buyer for the structure.

OSSPC leader Erin Anheier told board members the group has made remarkable progress over the past year and is “hopeful that in less than (another) year,” a buyer with an acceptable plan can be found.

She said currently there are three interested parties - two developing plans and one with an initial plan. She introduced Tim Seegler who presented his plan to Clarendon Town Board members.

“I don’t know how this fell into my lap, but it has been a blessing,” Seegler said. “I want to bring back the history and aesthetics (of the building).”

He told board members he would like to turn the building into an antiquity and collectibles store and would reside on the second floor with his young son.

Seegler said he would like to fund the restoration/rehabilitation work with commercial loans, but would pursue federal grants if the need arose. He said he estimates the cost of his plan to be about $200,000.

He described the exterior which would include a porch with steps on both sides and a re-grade of the property. There would be large storefront windows, “The idea is to bring the rich history back,” Seegler said, “bring the community back. The building was (at) the (core of the) hamlet for the town and should be brought back to something similar to that.”

“I want you to feel like you are walking back in time,” he said about the interior of the building, which would look like an old-fashioned general store. Seegler added he would use community resources to do the rehabilitation work.

Two residents (both neighbors of the property) raised questions about the plan. They noted parking space at the location is limited and could result in a driveway to the west of the store being blocked by customers. Concerns were also raised over the effectiveness of the proposed septic system.

“The building is an eyesore,” one neighbor said, “there’s nothing nice about that building.”

Seegler agreed parking is a challenge and defended the plan for septic as a viable option. It would need approval by Orleans County.

“We can make this work,” he said, “everybody wants to see this happen.” Board member Paul Nicosia told Seegler he was not criticizing the plan, “I don’t want to defuse your enthusiasm. ... I would love to see it develop into something like this,” but he, too, warned of issues with parking and set-back. Nicosia said the plan would likely require variances and site plan approval by the planning board.

Responding to a question from the audience, Supervisor Richard Moy said there likely is money in the town budget to demolish the building, but he said he would like to save it.

“When a building comes down, it comes off the tax rolls,” he said. “Who makes up for that? You and me.”

Board member John DeFilipps agreed and said he was “in no hurry to tear the building down.”

One long-time resident said to demolish the building without considering proposals would be “short-sighted.”

The only no vote on the six-month extension was cast by board member William Campbell, who said he would like to see the deadline extended by one month so that he could “digest” all the materials provided by Seegler before deciding to make the extension longer.

7/22/12


Park it in Parma celebration canceled

The “Park it in Parma” Summer Celebration traditionally held the first weekend in August at Parma Town Hall Park has been canceled.

This Parma Town Board decision developed last fall when preparing the Town’s 2012 Fiscal Budget. Within the process of presenting a proper budget to the residents, many very tough decisions were made to minimize the overall tax increase. The annual cost of this popular venue and the present economy were factors associated with hosting the event in 2012.

Information from Town of Parma officials

7/22/12


Ogden Heritage Park construction to get underway

The Finger Lakes Regional Economic Development Council announced that the Town of Ogden has begun construction on a new 1,600-foot extension of the Heritage Trail and Park funded in part with a $275,000 grant it received through Governor Andrew M. Cuomo’s Regional Economic Development Council initiative.

“I am very much looking forward to the extension of the Heritage Park and Trail in the Town of Ogden,” said Gay Lenhard, Town of Ogden Supervisor. “As the first park on the canal in Ogden, it will draw more visitors and boaters exploring the historic Erie Canal to local businesses, provide a great new place for town residents to enjoy the outdoors, and improve the overall quality of life in the region.”

The new park will include benches, shaded picnic tables and grills, in addition to an 80-foot dock for boaters. The park will have a parking lot for visitors, but also may be reached by bicycle or hiking on the trail that commences in the neighboring Village of Spencerport by the Trolley Depot. The extension will provide a nearly mile-long multi-use path and park along the canal. Future plans include the construction of pavilions and a lodge with a fireplace and restrooms.

To cover the remains of the total project cost of nearly $550,000, a matching amount will be provided by the town and will include in-kind services by the Ogden Highway Department and certain donated materials.

“I am pleased Finger Lakes Regional Economic Development Council recognized the value of this recreation area,” said Rose Harvey, Commissioner of the New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation. “Parks and trails are fundamental building blocks of vibrant, livable communities. This investment is helping the citizens of Ogden to build a stronger, more prosperous community.”

Last year, a total of $785 million was awarded through the Consolidated Funding Application (CFA) for job creation and community development projects consistent with each region’s strategic plans. As part of that process, the Town of Ogden was awarded $275,000 through the Environmental Protection Fund, administered by the Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation. To learn more about each regional council and their economic development plans, visit www.nyworks.ny.gov.

To learn more about each regional council and their economic development plans, visit www.nyworks.ny.gov.

Provided Information

7/22/12



FEATURE STORIES - WEEK OF JULY 22, 2012

Violin restorations make sweet music

Hilton luthier blends musical and wood crafting talents in avocation

by Kristina Gabalski

Parma resident Doug Wall retired from Kodak in 2005, after working there for 34 years as a chemist. He became interested in violin repair about a year later and used his retraining allowance from Kodak to attend a school in North Adams, Massachusetts. He goes back every year for a week of specialized training. Above, he displays the inside of the top of a violin where he has bridged some cracks with glued cleats. It’s not very often that a vacation leads to a new avocation, but that was the case for Doug Wall, who skillfully restores old violins in a workshop in his home just north of the village of Hilton.

Doug was on a trip to Scotland in 2002, when he heard “wonderful fiddling music.” Intrigued, he decided to learn how to play.

“I was around 50 years old and said, ‘I gotta try that,’ ” Doug says. “I had no musical background at all.”

A year after the trip, he found a teacher, purchased a fiddle and started lessons.

“In 2005, I escaped from Kodak voluntarily,” Doug says. His fiddle teacher, knowing his talents and interest in woodworking, told him about violin repair and restoration workshops where he could learn the craft.

Doug says he attended his first workshop in 2006, led by Hans Nebel at the Massachusetts College of Liberal Arts.

“I fell in love with working on the instruments and am continuing to take classes every year,” he says.

Nebel is a renowned violin repair expert, Doug says. He is a third-generation member of a violin-making family in Germany. He came to the U.S. in the 1950s and is now 73 years old.

“He’s a phenomenal restorer - there’s no way to match what he does, he’s a great inspiration,” Doug says. “He’s one of the few people that people will take a Stradivarius to to get repaired.”

Doug uses an electronic thickness gauge to make sure his work is correct. Doug estimates he has amassed about 400 hours of training over the past several years and says the technical name for his craft is luthier - someone who repairs string instruments. The work he does has changed little over the centuries.

A Fiddle-ette is a vintage redwood violin. It can be played as a full violin or a three-quarter violin. Only a few thousand were ever made. "I like working with old instruments; it can be challenging to restore them correctly," he says. He does crack repairs, neck resetting, scroll grafting, rib repairs, varnish retouching and patching and re-arching. Wall says his wife, Cathy, "Supports my work 100 percent; that's important." About twenty percent of his work is repairs; the other eighty percent is refurbishing and restoring. “If Stradivari walked into my workshop, the tools would seem familiar to him,” Doug explains. Stradivari died in 1737.

Doug enjoys working with people and most often works to bring “attic violins” - instruments long neglected in attics or closets - back to life.

“People will come in with a violin that belonged to their grandfather and want to get it back into playing condition,” he says.

Spool clamps hold the top (the belly) and sides together while the hide glue dries, (overnight).Doug can also help violinists and students who need their instruments repaired and he sells violins, bows and strings.

When a customer brings a violin in, Doug first evaluates the instrument in a multi-step process to ascertain its age and how and where it was made.

“I enjoy working with clients and explaining things to them,” he says.

Once the evaluation is complete, he will discuss options for repair and restoration.

This view of two violin interiors shows the difference between a bass bar that has been initially installed and what it looks like after it has been trimmed. Shaping it properly improves the sound.“Most of the time, I can help out,” he says and will refer a client to someone else if he feels the work that needs to be done requires more skill than he has attained.

A finger plane is used to remove bits of the bass bar. There are 74 individual pieces in a violin. The archeology of the instruments fascinates Doug - the process of determining the age, origin and assessing previous repairs.

“What intrigues me about working on the violins is the puzzle you run into,” he says, “and deciding how to repair them.”

Much of the restoration work must be done by hand, including fitting all the parts to the violin, Doug says.

Many materials are also used in the re-touching process. Doug uses resins to mix colors to match the color of the instrument’s varnish. Powdered soluble pigments are used to meticulously restore even the finest grains.

Clamps hold down the glued bass bar, the major piece running up the middle of the inside of a violin. Doug uses chalk to determine the proper fit of the spruce bass bar to the back of the violin. High points show up with chalk and need to be trimmed back. He uses hide glue to affix the bass bar. The bass bar is the beam that allows a violin to withstand the pressure of the strings. It’s very rewarding to take an old violin and bring it back to playing condition,” he says. “It’s very, very interesting work, fascinating work. I love to do it.”

Note: Other information is available on Wall’s website: www.wallindependent.com.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Photographs by Walter Horylev

7/22/12


“It’s Raining, It’s Pouring”

New children’s book brings out the smiles

The book cover, illustrated by Christine Davenierby Barbara Burke

It’s raining, it’s pouring,
The old man is snoring.
Bumped his head, and he went to bed,
And couldn’t get up in the mornin’.

It’s Raining, It’s Pouring, is a new children’s book featuring a playful visual interpretation of the lyrical text of the legendary trio Peter, Paul and Mary’s cherished rendition of the title song. They originally recorded the song in 1962 for their debut album “Peter, Paul and Mary” which was the first folk album to reach number one on the Billboard charts, staying in the number one position for over a month. The album also included the singles “Lemon Tree” and “If I Had A Hammer,” which became an anthem of the Civil Rights Movement and was sung by the trio at the 1963 March on Washington where Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. delivered his legendary “I Have A Dream” speech.

The new book also includes a CD with the title song as originally performed by Peter, Paul and Mary in 1962 and two more songs, Peter Yarrow singing “Make-Believe Town” and Noel Paul Stookey performing “Glory of Love.”

In celebration of the new children’s book Peter Yarrow and Noel Paul Stookey will be appearing live at a book signing and mini-performance at Lift Bridge Book Shop, 45 Main Street, Brockport on Saturday, July 28 at 2 p.m. The third member of the trio, Mary Travers, died in September 2009.

“One of the greatest joys of performing this song on stage was celebrating Mary’s infectious delight as she played the part of a child counting ‘five, ten, fifteen, twenty …’ and it, quite naturally, became one of our most requested in-concert songs,” Peter Yarrow said.

Peter, Paul and MaryThe book is dedicated “For Mary … and the “little lamb” that brought us together. Love from your boys. - NS and PY.” The “little lamb” is a reference to something very special for the trio. Peter recounts, “The first song we sang together was in fact “Mary Had A Little Lamb.” It was remarkable because each of us took turns singing the lead and the others sang the harmony parts. The song changed dramatically with each lead singer but the sound was always wonderful. From that one experience came the sense that we could be a group and a very special one emerged.”

In a tribute to Mary Travers, Yarrow said, “I have no idea what it will be like to have no Mary in my world, in my life, or on stage to sing with. But I do know there will always be a hole in my heart, a place where she will always exist that will never be filled by any other person. However painful her passing is, I am forever grateful for Mary and her place in my life.”

Stookey said, “I am deadened and heartsick beyond words to consider a life without Mary Travers and honored beyond my wildest dreams to have shared her spirit and her career.”

The book is illustrated in watercolor by Christine Davenier, a Paris-born artist and illustrator known for giving scenes of everyday life a new freshness. She has illustrated numerous children’s books, including the best-selling The Very Fairy Princess, written by Julie Andrews and Emma Walton Hamilton. Davenier has also won a New York Times Book Review Best Illustrated Children’s Book of the Year Award for The First Thing My Mama Told Me by Susan Marie Swanson.

Part of the preparation for illustrating the book came from memories, Davenier said. “When I was a child, I used to spend time at my grandmother’s house with my cousins. Doing this book brought me back to that nostalgic time. I wanted to show the wind and rain and darkness outside and the light, warm, sweet house inside.”

The colorful and lively theme of the book centers around a familiar lament of a houseful of children (eight) looking to banish boredom on a rainy day by playing a game of hide-and-go-seek inside the house. The children are pictured scurrying around to claim hiding places within the homey house, all except one small girl who cuddles up with Grandpa (the old man “who bumped his head and went to bed”).

The text of the book remains faithful to the lyrics as performed by the trio in their unique rendition of the well known children’s song.

Illustrations include apple picking in the yard before the rains come, the children inside the house finding their hiding spots and sharing their secrets, the little girl keeping Grandpa company by reading nursery rhymes, Grandma preparing apple pie in her warm and cozy kitchen and finally everyone, including the nursery rhyme characters and Grandpa playing the fiddle, together again outside in the yard enjoying the freshly baked apple pie.

During the mini performance Peter and Paul will be singing a variety of songs. Peter Yarrow says, “We will sing Peter, Paul and Mary songs because that is our legacy together. We will also sing children’s songs because the audience at these performances are comprised of adults, grandparents and parents along with their children and grandchildren.”

Peter said, “Much of the performance will be improvisation, off the top of our heads, not written lines. We like to take this opportunity when we are together to exchange thoughts and ideas that always turn out to be funny. Part of the reason for this is that Noel Paul Stookey is a natural comedian. When we first met in Greenwich Village that was his main identity. There were three great comedians in the Village at the time - Woody Allen, Bill Cosby and Noel Paul Stookey.

Peter says that they will most likely also perform “Leaving on a Jet Plane.” “This is our way to bring Mary Travers back to us for the moment.”

Another song that will be performed is “Don’t Laugh at Me,” a song that has visited over 22,000 schools in conjunction with the non-profit organization Operation Respect. Peter says, “We sing this song not to amuse but to move people. Sharing a perspective about the importance of respecting each other. Its message is it’s OK to laugh with others, but not OK to laugh at others, it’s OK to be playful but not OK to be bullying.”

Yarrow says that there are plans for more children’s books and CDs of Peter, Paul and Mary songs. “I can imagine a whole series of such books and CDs. The importance of doing these books with CDs is that it is a way to share this kind of music that has so much value for kids. Wholesome, beautiful music that when sung together form the sense of community and acceptance that was so important in the era of Peter, Paul and Mary.”

7/22/12


Local soldiers played crucial roles in Little Round Top battle

Your readers may be interested in a follow-up to the caption for the Little Round Top photo in the article on Ron Zorn (July 15, 2012). The 140th New York Volunteer Infantry, recruited largely in Monroe County, was marching along the backside of Little Round Top toward its assigned position on the second day at Gettysburg when a general from another unit countermanded their orders and sent them over Little Round Top, as two Texas regiments were coming up the other side. Whoever occupied Little Round Top during the battle the next day would have a great advantage. The 140th wheeled and mounted the hill, Companies A and G in the lead. Of the 161 members of Company A, 49 were from Clarkson, 28 from the Town of Sweden, 17 from Brockport, and three from Hamlin. Most of the rest were transfers from the 44th New York Volunteer Infantry or had been recruited in Niagara County.

They had changed course so abruptly that they neglected to load their rifles or fix their bayonets. As they came over the top, their sudden appearance startled the Texans who were unaware that they were not prepared for battle. In some confusion, the Yanks loaded up, fixed their bayonets, and fell into battle formation. Their commander, Col. Patrick O’Rorke, was shot dead at the beginning of the battle and the leadership fell to Lt. Porter Farley and the head of Company A, Milo Starks, a farm boy from the Town of Sweden. Starks was shot four times, but refused to leave the field of battle. The 140th drove back the Texans.

The other end of Little Round Top was being held by a beleaguered 20th Maine and in the middle was the undermanned 16th Michigan regiment. Except for the timely arrival of the 140th, they might well have been out-flanked by the Texans and unable to hold their positions. It may well be that Little Round Top was saved for the Union and tipped the balance in the crucial battle the next day.

Bill Andrews, Brockport

Note: The writer is a retired professor of history.

7/22/12


Bless Brockport now in 5th year

Bless Brockport is celebrating its fifth year of serving the community with random acts of kindness through meaningful acts of service. The week long event runs August 5 to 12 and coincides with the weekend of the Brockport Arts Festival. Free car wash, free bowling, free candy bars and ice cream and a home improvement project for one family in need are part of this year’s event. New this year is a free week-long boys and girls basketball camp at the Sweden Clarkson Recreation Center from 10 to noon Monday through Friday.

To end the week, the first Brockport community Balloon Launch Competition is set for August 12 from 7 to 8 p.m. at Christ Community Church. There will also be live music and free popcorn.

Bless Brockport is supported by volunteers from Christ Community Church and The Bridge Church of Brockport. For details check out the website: www.blessbrockport.org.

7/22/12


Tree talk 15

by Joe Reinschmidt

The (not so silent) Sycamore. July 17, 2012. 8 p.m. Photograph by Walter Horylev.I really didn’t think I would have much more to say, but apparently some folks asked to hear from me again. If you have been watching me you know I survived the winter for 2011-12 but that was easy. It was nothing compared to some of the winters I have experienced. I got a little confused by the unseasonably warm weather we had this spring which started some juices flowing unexpectedly. Although there were also some heavy rains which weren’t unwelcome since my roots have let me know it’s dry down there.

I’m sure you all noticed the winter wheat that was planted last fall and was growing nicely until a flock of geese decided to turn the wheat field into their personal cafeteria. I tried to scare them off by rustling my leaves and shaking my limbs, with little success. Seems like the only time my leaves rustled was when the wind blew. As for shaking my limbs I have to admit that at my age there is not a whole lot of shaking going on. I was quite worried that they would eat the wheat leaves down so far that it wouldn’t recover enough to become a decent crop. Wrong again! The wheat recovered, grew, turned golden with ripeness and was just recently harvested. The straw was baled into the biggest bundles I had ever seen, much too big for a man to handle. Soon a machine appeared that picked them up and loaded them onto trucks, and off they went.

I’ve sensed that many of you are concerned about my future and what my ultimate fate will be. I can tell that I don’t have the slightest idea about that, nor am I spending time thinking about it. Once we are born, or sprout and grow, the only thing we know will ultimately happen is our demise. The how, when or why is a mystery that best remains unknown to us. The important thing is that we use the time we are given doing the best we can and appreciate life as it unfolds uniquely for each of us.

As for me I can just say that it has been wonderful to occupy this spot for so many years and I will remain for as long as the Great Landlord in the sky keeps renewing my lease. I have seen thousands of sunrises and sunsets, but appreciate each of them as if it were the first one. Hopefully you share that feeling.

Note: Writer Joe Reinschmidt’s personification of a century old sycamore tree has enjoyed a devoted following of Westside News Inc. readers. The tree grows in a field on the east side of Route 259 just north of the intersection of 259/Canal Road/Big Ridge Road.

7/22/12


Celebrate summer at Canal Days in Spencerport

by Maggie Fitzgibbons

It’s one of the biggest summer events held in the area and thousands will visit the village on the Erie Canal called Spencerport.

Each year, this annual event called the Spencerport Canal Days, celebrates summer with a host of events and activities for everyone to enjoy. Whether it is the arts and crafts, food vendors, car show, canal event or performances, this community celebration always delights people of all ages.

Canal Days will take place Friday, July 27, Saturday, July 28 and Sunday, July 29 in the Village of Spencerport. The weekend’s events include a car show, a wide variety of artists and performances, as well as the famous Canaligator Race.

The weekend kicks off with a street party on Friday evening at 7 p.m. with a performance by Ruby Shooz. A section of Union Street will be closed from Amity Street to West Avenue for this concert. The stage will be located in front of Abbott’s Ice Cream Shoppe.

“We are excited to begin the festivities with a show by Ruby Shooz. This well-known musical group is sure to provide some lively entertainment,” said Wendy Dandrea. She coordinates the arts and crafts, entertainment and commercial vendors for Canal Days.

The Canal Days Car Show will be held at Pineway Ponds Park on Union Street on Saturday, July 28. Registration is from 9 a.m. until noon, the awards ceremony begins at 3 p.m. This show is free and open to the public.

Over 75 artists will showcase their goods throughout the Canal Days weekend. These artists sell a variety of craft items like photos, jewelry, wooden kitchen items, and garden sculptures. Festival goers can find these crafters along Union Street and in the Firemen’s Field.

The ever-famous Canaligator Race is set for Sunday, July 29 at 4 p.m. Canaligator tickets may be purchased at The Unique Shop until July 27 or at the Canal Days Information Booth throughout the festival weekend. Over $2,000 in prizes will be awarded to the first five and last five canaligators to cross the finish line. Tickets are $5.00 each or five for $20.00.

This year the weekend entertainment schedule includes performances at the Clyde Carter Gazebo located in front of the Firemen’s Field, a stage on Union Street and also at the Spencerport Depot and Canal Museum. On Saturday, July 28 at noon and 3:00 p.m., performers Annie and Al along the Canal, dressed in authentic clothing from the 1800s, will present Erie Canal stories and music. This duo will be located at the Depot. The popular strolling Banjo Man will roam through the village on Saturday from noon until 4 p.m. Steve Ingrahams Magic will present a show at noon and 3 p.m. at the Depot on Sunday, July 29.

Canal Days festival-goers are encouraged to park their vehicles at Terry Taylor Elementary School on Ogden Parma Town Line Road or at Spencerport High School on Spencerport Road and take a shuttle bus to and from the festival area. The shuttle service is free and buses will run every 15 to 20 minutes. Volunteer guides will ride the buses and give helpful information about navigating Canal Days.

For some area community organizations, like the Spencerport Kiwanis, Rotary and the Spencerport Volunteer Firemen’s Association, Canal Days provides an opportunity to raise funds for each of their worthwhile causes. Stop by any one of their food booths during Canal Days and purchase a chicken barbeque dinner, a hot dog or a hamburger or an Italian sausage and help these organizations continue their much needed outreach efforts.

Canal Days is one of the largest community events held in the area, but it also provides visitors with chance to learn about the community.

“Canal Days is a great way for others to see what our village and town has to offer,” said Ginny Swarthout, Canal Days Director.

For more information about any of these events or performances, refer to the listing in this Canal Days section or visit the Canal Days website at spencerportcanaldays.com.

7/22/12

 

Calling all car buffs

by Maggie Fitzgibbon

Do you have an antique car or a collector car that you wish to show off? Enter your prized coupé in the 2012 Canal Days Car Show on Saturday, July 28 at Pineway Ponds Park in Spencerport. Registration begins at 9 a.m. and ends at noon.

This show is judged. Prizes will be awarded based upon body, interior, engine, chassis, undercarriage and safety, and overall detail and appearance. A free dash plaque will be awarded to the first 200 entries. The awards ceremony will begin at 3 p.m.

Registration is encouraged before the day of the show. The registration fee after July 21 or later is $15 per vehicle. All those who pre-register will receive a free hot dog at the car show.

“Last year, we had almost 300 cars showcased, and we hope for more this year,” said John Krywy, chairperson of the 2012 Canal Days Car Show.

DJ Mike Vickers will provide entertainment throughout the day. Barton’s Parkside Hots will offer food for purchase. The Car Show Committee will host a 50/50 raffle with the winner being announced at the awards ceremony.

“This year’s show is changed and will not feature specific classes of cars or trucks. The show will focus on how each entrant has best prepared their car for the show and the judges will look at the body styles of all entrants,” Krwy added.

Resch Auto Services, Galaxie Auto Parts and Suburban News (Westside News Inc.) sponsor the 2012 Canal Days Car Show.

More information about the car show or to obtain an entry form, visit the Canal Days website at spencerportcanaldays.com. Find a registration form in this special section.

7/22/12

 

Volunteers give back to the community through festival event planning

by Maggie Fitzgibbon

The old saying, “Many hands make light work,” holds true in many cases, especially when it comes time for a community event like Spencerport Canal Days. Each year, visitors and residents come to Spencerport for Canal Days to enjoy a weekend full of activities and entertainment. But what most don’t realize is that there is a group of dedicated volunteers who meet year-round to plan this annual event.

Take Ginny Swarthout for example. She’s volunteered on the Canal Days Committee for 30 years. When asked why, she simply says, “I continue to volunteer because I believe in giving back to the community,” Swarthout explained. “Volunteering is a great way to become involved in community activities. It provides an opportunity to meet new people, to form new friendships, to share ideas with others, and to feel you have contributed to something for others,” she added.

Talk to Gail McQuilkin and she’ll explain why she has volunteered for almost 15 years. This long-time Spencerport resident encourages others to do the same. “It’s a lot of fun. You meet new people and get to see old friends,” she said.

This is the second year that Becky Daniels has served on the Canal Days Committee. She helps to coordinate the Canaligator Race and also works in the information booth. She enjoys giving her time to this community event and encourages others to do the same.

“It is a great opportunity to help raise money for the needs of our community and it is fun. Volunteering is a great way to support community initiatives. It doesn’t cost anything. All that’s necessary is a desire to share your time and talents,” Daniels explained.

Are you interested in giving your time to this worthwhile community event? Contact Swarthout at 352-1350 to learn how you can volunteer at Canal Days. Whether you can volunteer for one hour or a day, any time you can give is much appreciated.

7/22/12


2012 Hilton Apple Fest logo chosen

A logo design submitted by Hilton native Shelby Billotti has been chosen as the winner of the 2012 Hilton Apple Fest logo contest.

Having entered the contest in years past, Billotti, who actually entered two designs this year, was particularly delighted and definitely surprised when she heard her logo was chosen. Billotti said she decided to have fun with the idea of mixing different typefaces together, keeping it simple, while adding some pizzazz.

Having grown up in Hilton, she is an Apple Fest enthusiast who looks forward to the festival each year. This year will be especially exciting, since the logo she designed will adorn everything from ceramic coffee mugs, to baseball caps and t-shirts. Better yet, all festival souvenirs are produced by local western New York artisans, further growing the local economy.

Special children’s apparel featuring Corey, the Apple Fest mascot, is also going to be available for purchase at the Apple Fest souvenir tent. As a sign of appreciation, the Hilton Apple Fest board of directors presented Billotti with a $100 check and a sweatshirt embroidered with the winning logo.

The 32nd annual festival will take place Saturday, September 29 from 10 a.m. until 5 p.m. and Sunday, September 30 from 10 a.m. until 4:30 p.m. Visit www.hiltonapplefest.org for other information.

7/22/12


Clarkson Historical Society celebrates completion of academy renovations

THEN The Clarkson Academy, then and now. Area residents are invited to an Open House Wednesday, August 1 to tour the building and to help honor Don Lage who spearheaded the renovation project. Provided photosIn the beginning, there were people with a dream. The focus of that dream was to save the 1853 Clarkson Academy building next to the Clarkson Community Church at Clarkson Corners, the intersection of Routes 19 and 104.

Academies such as these throughout New York state provided the next level of education beyond the mandatory grammar school level that everyone attended. The Academies were structured to provide an advanced education for the young people of the areas who would soon become teachers, lawyers, engineers, mathematicians, doctors, scientists, entrepreneurs and political leaders of our nation. On August 1, the Clarkson Historical Society will celebrate the completion of renovations to the Clarkson Academy and the efforts of member and president Don Lage to bring the project to a successful close.

Historical Society members say the number of people and the hours they put into this project and the monies that they and others contributed is documented and is available to see. The community effort succeeded in rescuing and delivering this 1853 building that was dedicated to advanced education. It stands here as an inspiration for the present and future generations of this area.

On August 1, both the completion of the Academy and the work of Donald Lage, will be recognized. It is over a decade since the first attempts were undertaken to save the building, according to Society members. It was soon evident that only a major engineering effort financed by a major funding effort would save the building. It was at this point that Don Lage agreed to see what he could do to help. Overnight, he became the project manager, the works manager, the contract negotiator, the inspector general, the financial manager and, later, the president of the Clarkson Historical Society, all of these titles at the same time.

NOWOn Wednesday, August 1 from 7 to 9 p.m. the Clarkson Historical Society is hosting an Open House at the Academy, 8343 Ridge Road, to celebrate the completion of the major restoration activities and to honor Don Lage for his continuing inspiration, leadership, dedication and hard work during the restoration of the Academy. Everyone in the community and area can stop in to see the restoration of this beautiful old building and greet Don Lage. There will be light refreshments and a chance to view the transformation from this once ‘near-to-condemned’ building to the asset that it has become to the communities of this area.

 

 

 

7/22/12


“Les Misérables” a unique Westside Theater production

“Les Misérables”: A fitting title for the musical that captures the struggles and sorrows of the French Revolution. When Victor Hugo’s famous novel was converted into a musical, critics insisted that it would never be successful. They were wrong. Few musicals - much less operatic ones - have inspired the enthusiasm that Les Misérables has. But is it any wonder that the show has become one of the most beloved musicals worldwide? This masterful story centers around the life of an embittered and mistreated convict and his reformation, with side-plots touching on the highly tragic history of the French Revolution, the beautiful and sorrowful experiences of young lovers, and the internal struggles of a man torn between duty and conscience. The Thenardiers add a relieving touch of humor, and you are left with one of the best musicals ever written. Full of passion, sorrow, and hope, Les Misérables promises to be a touching and inspirational experience.

Thousands of theater-lovers are preparing to witness Les Misérables on the “big screen,” but before the movie premieres in December, this unforgettable musical will be performed locally one last time before going on tour. Westside Theater Productions’ summer high school camp will be presenting an incredible production under director Kelly Walsh-Lackey, choreographer Molly Dillon, and assistant director Eric Traugott. The dedication and enthusiasm of the cast and crew are already evident as they prepare to give you a chance to be part of this incredible experience. Performances are at Spencerport High School, 71 Lyell Avenue, Spencerport, on Thursday, July 26 at 7:30 p.m., Friday July 27 at 7:30 p.m. and Saturday, July 28 at 2 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. Tickets are available at the door or online at showtix.com.

The performances, music and the story itself are ones theater-goers will not soon forget.

7/22/12


Workshop on cemetery preservation August 7

The Western New York Association of Historical Agencies (WNYAHA) will present “Grave Matters,” a cemetery preservation workshop, at the Cobblestone Museum, and Mount Albion Cemetery in Albion on Tuesday, August 7, from 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.

This one-day workshop provides information and training on preservation issues, documenting a cemetery, and tombstone identification. A hands-on demonstration on proper cleaning and resetting techniques is also offered.

The responsibility for maintaining historic cemeteries is most often in the hands of volunteers who lack any professional experience dealing with preservation issues in cemetery maintenance. Yet these properties are treasured resources for historians, researchers, genealogists and the general public, according to the association.

Too often, attempts to repair damage only make matters worse. Cemeteries are vulnerable to weather, neglect, and vandalism. Grave Matters provides training and information to volunteers that can then be taught to others. This one day workshop offers preservation techniques through classroom instruction and hands-on demonstrations at Albion’s historic Mount Albion Cemetery. Among the presenters for this workshop is Orleans County Historian Bill Lattin.

Grave Matters is sponsored in part by Christopher Mitchell Funeral Homes of Albion and Holley.

WNYAHA is a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit service organization that provides information, training, and networking opportunities to cultural heritage organizations in western New York.

For information, or to register for the workshop, go to www.wnyaha.org, or contact Terry Abrams, administrative coordinator, at PO. Box 39, Getzville, NY, 14068, phone (716) 439-6293, or email at wnyaha@yahoo.com.

Provided information

7/22/12


Brockport Rotary BBQ & Music Fest lots of fun

Contestants at the Brockport Rotary BBQ & Music Fest held July 7 and 8.

 

Thirty BBQ contestants competed in several different categories to earn trophies in everything from ribs to chili.

Although thunderstorms blew over some tents Saturday morning people appeared once the weather improved.

 

Some great music and mighty good eats were big attractions along with getting to meet the BBQ teams who take their BBQ very seriously.

 

Brockport Free Methodist Church sponsored an array of children's activities.

 

Rotarian Cort Fowler found another attraction, a tracked vehicle originally designed for seriously wounded veterans. Particular credit for the event’s creation and execution are due Rob Blair and his wife, Cindy, who along with Rotarians, family and friends put forth an Herculean effort for the event held at Northampton Park.

Provided Photos

7/22/12


 

SPORTS NEWS - WEEK OF JULY 22, 2012

AREA

Andrew Kittel Memorial Ride to benefit Rotary Sunshine Campus

Due to donor generosity, Rochester Rotary’s Sunshine Camp, a program for young people with disabilities, has been spreading sunshine to thousands of campers in the Rochester community for 90 years, free of charge. Andrew Kittel experienced this joyful camp prior to his passing on August 17, 2011, and this benefit is held in his honor. Participants are invited to join in the ride at Sunshine Campus, 809 Five Points Road, Rush, on Saturday, August 11 at 12:30 p.m. for a buffet lunch, raffles, and music by Light Blue. Admission is $15 per person; children under 12 are free. To purchase tickets in advance, donate to the camp, or join in the memorial ride, contact Paul Kittel at 585-474-7920 or kittsp30@rochester.rr.com for details.

7/22/12

 

 

 

LeBron James selected as June Hickok Belt™ winner

Miami Heat forward LeBron James has been selected as the Hickok Belt Award winner for the month of June 2012. Voting was conducted by a select panel of members of the National Sportscasters and Sportswriters Association (NSSA). James was selected based on his outstanding performance in the NBA playoffs throughout the month, culminating with the Miami Heat being crowned league champions and his selection as MVP of the NBA Finals. James averaged 28.6 points, 10.2 rebounds and 7.4 assists per game while shooting .473 from the floor in the finals against the Oklahoma City Thunder en route to his first NBA Championship.

Other finalists for the month of May in order of how the NSSA voters ranked them included: Jonathan Quick (hockey), Matt Cain (baseball), R.A. Dickey (baseball), Tiger Woods (golf), Maria Sharapova (tennis), Rafael Nadal (tennis), Fernando Torres (soccer), John Velazquez (horse racing), and Joey Logano (auto racing).

The Hickok Belt Award was originally presented annually from 1950-1976. Past recipients include a list of the 20th century’s elite athletes including the likes of Muhammad Ali, Arnold Palmer, Mickey Mantle, Willie Mays, Jim Brown and others who defined their sports.

Provided information

7/22/12

 

 

Hunter Safety Class offered

The Holley Rod & Gun Club Hunter Safety Instructor Team will be holding a N.Y.S. Basic Hunter Education Course at the club grounds on Pumping Station Road, just south of the Village of Holley.

The course will begin August 15 at 5:30 to 9:30 p.m. and continue August 17 from 5:30 to 9:30 p.m. concluding on August 18 from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m.

All first time hunters must complete the Hunter Education Course before they can obtain a New York state hunting license. Students must have attained their eleventh birthday in order to attend the class.

Anyone may pre-register for the class any Thursday evening, in person, between the hours of 5 and 8 p.m. at the Holley Rod & Gun Club. Phone 638-8285 for information.

7/22/12


BROCKPORT 

Two new Golden Eagles coaches named

by Warren Kozireski

Jason MoriniThe College at Brockport Athletic Department announced the hiring of Jason Morini as the head coach of the Brockport Men’s and Women’s Swimming and Diving Team and the head Aquatics Director as well as Bethany Schlegel as interim Women’s Volleyball coach.

Morini arrives following after eight seasons at Misericordia University in Pennsylvania where he led the team in setting 32 new school records over the last two seasons and was Middle Atlantic Conference Coach of the Year twice.

Misericordia posted a winning record in each of Morini’s last four seasons. Overall Morini compiled an overall record of 105-63 at Misericordia. Last season the men’s team took second place and the women’s team third in the Middle Atlantic Conference (MAC).

Prior to Misericordia, Morini restored the men’s program at Canisius after a six year hiatus.

In addition to his collegiate coaching experience, Morini also worked alongside the late U.S. Olympic coach and Stanford University head coach Richard Quick at the Richard Quick National Swim Camp for several years.

Morini was a four-year letter winner at Ithaca where he served as a team captain during his senior year and received a bachelor’s degree in anthropology.

Bethany SchlegelSchlegel takes over the Golden Eagles following the departure of Kelly Greapentrog who led Brockport for the past two seasons.

Schlegel takes her first head coaching position following two seasons as an assistant coach for the Golden Eagles. A Brockport alum, Schlegel played in over 500 career games in her four-year career and currently ranks second on the all-time list for digs with 1,774 with a school record 681 during the 2007 season. Schlegel was named to the First-Team All-State University of New York Athletic Conference (SUNYAC) during her senior season.

Schlegel takes over a team that finished 12-25 overall last season and 2-6 in the SUNYAC. A three-time team captain for Brockport, the Golden Eagles were 84-64 record over her four seasons as a player.

7/22/12


CHURCHVILLE

On Saturday, June 23 Riga Recreation held a Grand Re-opening of the renovated Tennis PickleBall courts at Churchville Park.

This was a collaboration between the Monroe County Parks Department and the Town of Riga with the majority of the work completed by the Town of Riga Highway Department headed by Riga Highway Superintendent Tom Klafehn. The courts were painted by the Paul O. Brown Company from Syracuse.

Over 50 players, Riga Town Supervisor Bob Ottley and community members played for over three hours to demonstrate the game and utilize the venue.

Pictured are some of the players that helped celebrate this joint venture.

7/22/12


HILTON

Hilton’s Mee moves to Davidson

by Warren Kozireski

Ryan MeeHilton 2001 graduate Ryan Mee has been hired as assistant men’s basketball coach at Davidson College located near Charlotte, North Carolina. The Wildcats won the 2011-12 Southern Conference title before losing to national runner-up Louisville in the first round of the NCAA playoffs.

Mee joins the Davidson staff after three seasons as an assistant coach at the University of Rochester where the Yellowjackets compiled a record of 53-25 and advanced to the NCAA Division III Championship Sweet 16 in 2011.

“I’m thrilled with the addition of Ryan to our staff,” said Davidson head coach Bob McKillop in a press release. “He has experience as a successful college player and coach in an environment where there is an equal commitment to excellence in academics and athletics. His versatility will be a valuable addition to our program.”

As a student-athlete at UR, Mee played in four consecutive NCAA tournaments, including two Final Fours (2002, 2005) including the 2005 national championship game. His class was the first one at Rochester to win 20 or more games in every season and the first to compete in the NCAA playoffs every year. He is ranked in the school’s top 10 in career three-point field goals made.

Mee also spent one year as an assistant coach at Hilbert College (2005-06) before moving to Elmira College as an assistant coach for two seasons (2006-08). From 2008-09, Mee was an assistant coach at Skidmore College.

“I’ve been going down to Davidson for the last six years or so - since (former teammate) Tim Sweeney was there on the coaching staff and I was able to build a relationship with the staff,” said Mee in a phone conversation. “It’s a neat place very similar to Rochester but it will still be a huge transition.”

Davidson finished the 2011-12 campaign with a 25-8 overall record, marking the fourth time in the last six seasons the Wildcats have posted 25 or more wins. Davidson returns all five starters and the top eight scorers and rebounders from last year’s squad.

Mee graduated from Hilton as the school’s all-time leading scorer with 1,292 career points, career three-pointers with 233, career assists with 301 and was a three-time All-County selection. He also played baseball and soccer and was inducted into the Hilton Sports Hall of Fame in 2006.

It seems the term “coach” must be in the job title if you are from the Mee family. Older brother Cory has been the head baseball coach at the University of Toledo since 2003 and father Ory is an assistant baseball coach at the College at Brockport after retiring from Hilton High School where he was baseball and boy’s basketball head coach.

“After I graduated from the U of R, I tried to fight it (becoming a coach), but after a year in the corporate world, it didn’t work.”

7/22/12

 

 

Hilton team wins Lacrosse Tournament

Coach Lou Goetzman’s Hex Lacrosse Team won the 5/6 grade bracket of the 1812 Shootout Lacrosse Tournament in Sacket’s Harbor, near Watertown on July 14.

The Hilton team fought through a tough overtime victory in the semi-final game before shutting out powerhouse Victor 6-0 in the championship game. Teamwork was the key in the near 90 degree heat to win four straight games in bringing home the champion t-shirts.

Shown front row - Jason Spencer, Ryan Butts, Brenden Howell, Max Chamberlain, Cameron Bostley, Matt Gouger, Michael Laber; back row - Coach Dude, Jordan DePetres, Justin Dude, Adam Wuest, Ray Ottman, Jake Goetzman, Coach Gouger, Jake VanWuyckhuyse, Ian Schwartzmeier, Coach Carpenter, Tyler Carpenter, Coach Goetzman.

Provided photo

7/22/12


 

SCHOOL DISTRICT NEWS - WEEK OF JULY 22, 2012

BROCKPORT

New Brockport board member and superintendent take oath; president and vice president appointed

Brockport's Board of Education, in front (l-r): Marjorie Focarazzo, Tom Langelotti (president), April VanGelder; in back: Ray Gabriel, Gary Zimmer, Mike Andriatch (vice president), Gerry Maar. Provided photo The Brockport CSD Board of Education held it annual reorganization meeting on July 5. Board of Education member Marjorie Focarazzo took the oath of office for a five year term. She succeeds Bob Iveson who did not seek re-election.

Focarazzo is no stranger to the Brockport Board of Education having served on the board from 1998-2010, the last two years of her term as president. Focarazzo has four children who graduated from Brockport High School. The 31-year Brockport resident says she is excited to return to the Board of Education.

“Being a board member is one of the most rewarding positions I have held,” Focarazzo said. “As we are continually asked to do more with less, we must still prepare our children for a world that technologically advances more quickly than any other aspect of our society. As a member of Brockport’s Board of Education it is our responsibility to see that our children are ready to face the challenges ahead of them, and I look forward to being a part of the process.”

At the meeting, the oath of office was also administered to new superintendent Dr. Lesli Myers and to board members Tom Langelotti and Mike Andriatch, who will be serving their third year as president and vice president, respectively.

“Brockport is an incredible community. My family and I are honored that the Board of Education chose me to be the next superintendent of schools. I have started making connections with various stakeholder groups and will continue throughout the summer and school year. I continue to appreciate working with a supportive Board of Education and look forward to actualizing the District’s mission, vision, and priorities.

Regular board meetings are open to the public and are typically held on the first and third Tuesdays of each month at 7 p.m. in the District Administration Building.

7/22/12


GATES-CHILI

Scholarship winner chosen 

Evan Engelbrecht

 

The Session and Scholarship Committee from the First Presbyterian Church of Chili has announced that the recipient of the 2012 First Presbyterian Church of Chili Scholarship is Evan Engelbrecht.

Evan is the son of Marla Guarnieri and Tim Engelbrecht and graduated from Gates Chili High School in June. In the fall he will attend Alfred State College where he will pursue a career in automotive technology and automotive management.

Evan has participated in mission trips, fundraisers, youth group, and helped with roast beef dinners and Youth Sundays. Outside of church he has been in the school band throughout high school, National Honor Society, and achieved his Black Belt in karate. He has been active in Boy Scouts his whole life and recently received the rank of Eagle Scout.

Provided photo

7/22/12

 


HILTON

Hilton HS Commencement rebroadcast on local cable access August 3

The Hilton High School Class of 2012 Commencement Ceremonies were held June 23 at Blue Cross Arena. Tune in to T-W Cable CH 12 Friday, August 3, at 7 p.m. for a rebroadcast of the entire Commencement.

For information about Hilton High School, visit http://www.hilton.k12.ny.us/high-school.htm.

7/22/12


 


OBITUARIES - WEEK OF JULY 22, 2012

AREA

•Ackley, Lorraine E., “Lori”, of Rochester died July 4, 2012 at age 85. Predeceased by her husband, Charles E. Ackley and her son, William “Billy” Ackley. She is survived by her daughter, Wanda (William) Miner; step-brother, Richard (Jean) Thomas; nieces and nephews, including, Judy Paladino; cousins, Grace (Larry) Knickerbocker, Gail Olsen; many friends; special kitty, Titi.

A Celebration of Lori’s life was held July 21 at Brockport United Methodist Church. Donations can be made to the Hildebrandt Hospice Care Center in her memory.

 

BROCKPORT

•Camman, Lawrence A., peacefully on July 14, 2012 at age 88. Predeceased by his wife Betty M. Camman, grandson Matthew DiGregorio and brothers Robert and Lee. He is survived by his daughters Patricia (James) Duchins and Gail (Vic) DiGregorio; grandchildren, Melissa and Danny Guerin, Alicia Duchins, Kate and Stephen DiGregorio; six great-grandchildren; many dear relatives and friends. Larry was a WWII Navy veteran.

Services will be private. Contributions can be made to the New York State Veterans Home, 220 Richmond Avenue, Batavia, NY 14020 in his memory.

 

•Wagner, Edward R., A Funeral Mass will be celebrated on Saturday, July 28, 2012 at Nativity Church BVM, Brockport, 11 a.m. Interment will immediately follow mass in Mt. Olivet Catholic Cemetery, Brockport.

 

CHILI

•Allen, John L., July 16, 2012. Survived by his loving wife of 58 years, Mary; son, John (Laurie Speciale); two grandchildren, Jonathan and Jacqueline; brother-in-law, Earl Hinkson; several nieces and nephews. John was a U.S. Navy Veteran of the Korean Conflict.

A Memorial Mass was said July 20 at St. Pius the Tenth Church, Chili. Contributions can be made to St. Pius the Tenth Church or the Alzheimer’s Association, 435 East Henrietta Road, Rochester, NY in his memory.

 

HAMLIN

•Allen, Rebecca R. “Becky,” July 15, 2012 at age 20. Predeceased by her mother Pamela Allen. She is survived by her father and step-mother Wayne and Michelle Allen; sister Beth Allen; brother Zack Allen; step-sister Shelby Bowman; grandparents; niece Riley Speece; many other family and friends.

Services will be held at a later date. Contributions in her memory can be made to the family to help with funeral expenses.

 

•Bower, John W., July 17, 2012, age 61. Predeceased by his parents, Harvey and Lucille Bower; brother, Michael Bower, Mike’s fiancee, Lynn Lemmon. Survived by his brothers, Gerald and Ricky (Terry) Bower; sister, Lena (Don Frederick) Bower; sister-in-law, Sheryl Bower; nephews, Matthew (Joann), Timothy (Stephanie), Ricky, Austin and Timmy Bower; nieces, Elizabeth (Jamie) Thulin, Sarah and Ashley Bower; his aunt, Phyllis Bower Curtis; several cousins and many friends. John raised Show Pigeons since he was 15 and was a member of the National Pigeon Association.

Funeral Services were held July 28 at the Thomas E. Burger Funeral Home, Inc., Hilton. Private interment, Parma Union Cemetery. Contributions can be made to Open Door Mission or National Pigeon Association in his memory.

 

•Lyons, Jo Ann, on July 12, 2012. Predeceased by her parents Joseph and Marjorie Buckler. She is survived by her daughters, Pam (Jim) Simboli, Denise (Rick) Hare; grandchildren James (Caitlin) Simboli, Joe (Jess) Simboli, Brian Fessler, Christy Fessler, Holly Hare; great-grandson Tanyon Simboli; sister Gerry (Joe) Edwards; several nieces and nephews.

A Funeral Service was held July 16 at the Hamlin United Methodist Church. Interment, private. Contributions can be made to the Aurora House, 2495 South Union Street, Spencerport, NY 14559 in her memory.

 

HILTON

•Arnold, Susan J. (Brady), on July 11, 2012 at age 89. Predeceased by her husband John B. and her son John. She is survived by her children William, Susan (Mark) Wilson, James (Cheryl), George (Elizabeth), Ruth (Rick) Bantelman, Ed (Cindy), Mike (Terry), Paul (Kathy), Mary (Bob) Boccaccio, Larry (Sue); 29 grandchildren; 18 great-grandchildren; two brothers; three sisters; many nieces, nephews, great-nieces and great-nephews.

A Funeral Mass was held July 17 at St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Church, Hamlin. Interment, private. Contributions can be made to St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Church, 3747 Brick Schoolhouse Road, Hamlin, NY 14464 in her memory.

 

•Fritts, Dolores M., July 14, 2012 at age 74 after a long courageous battle with cancer. Predeceased by her mother Thelma M. Bartlow. Survived by her children: Michael (Deborah) Remillard, Michelle (Robert) Peown, Mark (Krystyna) Remillard; grandchildren: Dena, Shawnna, Michael, Frank (Teri), Sunni Jo, Brittany (Dave) and Matthew (Katie); great-grandchildren: Jordan, Alex, Raymond Madison and Charles; brother: C. Taylor Fritts; nephew: Taylor; nieces: Vicki, Carolyn and Alicia.

A Memorial Service was held July 18 at New Comer Funeral Home, Greece. Private interment. Contributions can be made to the American Cancer Society in her memory.

 

•Krause, Hans J., July 5, 2012. Survived by family and friends. Graveside prayer service was held July 17 at Oatka Cemetery, Scottsville.

 

HOLLEY

•Caswell, David A., July 11, 2012 after a courageous battle with cancer. He is survived by his wife Ann (Gentile) of 45 years; children, Douglas (Micky) Caswell of Penfield, Diana (Kevin) Buchholtz of Buffalo, Kris (Julie) Caswell of Chili; grandchildren, Justin DiNapoli, Olivia and Greyson Caswell, Alexandra and Nora Buchholtz. He was predeceased by his sister Sandy Patton.

A Celebration of his Life was held July 21 at the Merrill-Grinnell Funeral Home, Holley. Interment at the convenience of the family. Contributions can be made to Hospice of Orleans or the American Cancer Society in his memory.

 

NORTH CHILI

•Brink, Peter H., July 16, 2012 at age 63 with his loving and devoted wife of 30 years, Patti at his side. He is predeceased by his father, Harvey and sister, Joyce. Survived by his mother, June; son, Ian (Billie Jo); daughter, Tia Junot; granddaughter, Abby; brother, Harvey Jr.; mother-in-law, Peg Schneider; sister-in-law, Susan (Bob) Klueber; brother-in-law, Ron Schneider; and many nieces and nephews. Peter was a United States Air Force Veteran who served during the Vietnam War, a member of the VFW Post #6703, Hamlin and a member of the American Legion Post #1315, Avoca, New York.

Funeral Services were held July 20 at the New Comer Funeral Home, Greece. Interment, Holy Sepulchre Cemetery. Contributions can be made to Caring Bridge Donation Processing Center, P.O. Box 6132, Albert Lea, MN 56007-6632 or to G.R.A.S.P., P.O. Box 26421, Rochester 14626 in his memory.

 

ODGEN

•Loughlin, James G., On July 10, 2012. Survived by his loving wife of 59 years, Anne; children, Linda (Mike) Davis, Thomas (Bonnie) Loughlin, Kathy (Rex) Millslagle and Sue (Matt) Palermo; grandchildren, Rebecca, Kristina and Thomas Jr. Loughlin, Nicholas and Anthony Palermo; great-grandson, Noah Loughlin; several nieces and nephews.

A Graveside Service was held July 14 in Parma Union Cemetery.

 

SPENCERPORT

•Colangelo, Jeanette Barbato, on July 15, 2012, after a brief illness. Predeceased by her parents, Mary and Antonio Barbato; sister, Elizabeth; beloved grandson, Daniel Colangelo. Survived by her children, Louis (Mary) Colangelo, Marie Ann Colangelo and Steven Colangelo; daughter-in-law, Donna Colangelo; grandchildren, Greg, Giacchino, Lyndsey (Matt) Kamm, Scott (Kelly) Colangelo, Stephanie (Amiee) Colangelo-Story; great-grandchildren, Kylee, Brody, Colby, Sebastian, Bella, Paige and Alexander; sister, Jean (Tom) Raisbeck; several nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles, cousins and friends.

Her Funeral Mass was celebrated July 28 at St. John the Evangelist Church, Greece. Interment in Holy Sepulchre Cemetery.

 

•Colby, Reta B. (Bauch), July 14, 2012 at age 83. Reta was predeceased by her husband of 51 years, James A. Colby and her twin sister, Ruth Holman. She is survived by her children, Jean Colby, Charles (Colette), Richard (Darlene), and Robert Colby; grandchildren, Margarita, Chadwick, Camille, Scott, Marc, Sarah, James and Alexander Colby; sister, Marie (Rev. Donald) Cario; brother-in-law, Willard Holman; sister-in-law, Virginia (Joseph) Skrabak; many nieces and nephews, cousins and dear friends.

A Memorial Service was held July 18 at the First Congregational UCC “White Church,” Spencerport. Interment was held privately. Contributions can be made to the First Congregational UCC or the Leukemia Society in her memory.

 

•Eberlin, Paul K., of Rochester, formerly of Spencerport, died March 4, 2012 at age 55 after a courageous battle with cancer. Predeceased by his parents, Kenneth and Doris and brother, Lee. Survived by loving wife, Linda; brother, Donald (Ruth); step-children, Kenneth Spencer and Kriste (Matt) Viele; niece and nephew, aunts, uncles, cousins and dear friend, Don Colucci. Paul worked at RTS for 35 years as a bus mechanic.

A Graveside Service will be held Saturday, July 28 at 1 p.m. at Mt. Hope Cemetery, Rochester. A reception will follow. Contributions can be made to Hildebrandt Hospice, 2652 Ridgeway Avenue, Rochester 14626 in his memory.

 

•McMann, Lee J., After a long and courageous battle with cancer on July 12, 2012 at age 70. Lee was predeceased by his mother Dorothy Maynard. He is survived by his wife of 30 years, Robin O’Brien; his children, Brenda (Chuck) Rozzano, Michael (Sheila), Peter (Christine) and Richard McMann, Thomas (Kristie) O’Brien, Lori (Joseph) Gillett and Tammy O’Brien; his 12 grandchildren; siblings, Harold (Nancy) McMann and Gary (Pat) Stratton; many nieces and nephews; his best friend and dog “Rolen.” Lee owned and operated Peck Collision Inc., with his son Peter McMann for 30 years.

All services will be held at the convenience of the family. Contributions can be made to James P. Wilmot Cancer Center or Lollypop Farm in his memory.

 

AREA

Erma Pettis, co-founder of Pettis Pools

Erma Pettis A good friend, Mary Lou Rockow, made a FROG (Fully Rely on God) comfort quilt for Erma late this winter. Erma treasured the quilt and took it with her to chemo treatments. Her former pastor, Rev. Albert Zoller, says she lived a thankful and grateful life. The Rochester business community suffered a great loss May 18 with the death of Erma Pettis, who along with her husband, Larry, opened Pettis Pools & Patio 50 years ago, in 1962.

“My mother was the hardest working person I have ever known,” says daughter Julie Pettis, president of Pettis Pools & Patio.

Erma was diagnosed with cancer in December 2011, just five months before her death. She will be deeply missed by her family, friends, employees, business associates and all who knew her.

Julie says her mother was born in Dunkirk, New York in February 1930. Growing up during the Great Depression taught her “If it’s to be it’s up to me.”

Erma went to Brockport State and became a teacher. After starting her family, she worked for the Suburban News part-time.

“Money was tight and my father (who was also a teacher) worked summers painting houses and whatever else he could,” Julie says. “Being entrepreneurial at heart, my parents were looking through the ‘business opportunities’ section of the newspaper one Sunday morning and saw the ad that would change our lives: “Fox In-Ground Pool Distributorship Available.”

The first Pettis Pool sign The first “retail store” opened in 1963 in the Pettis’s garage and by 1968, the first retail location was opened in Greece. The East Rochester store opened in the late 1980s.

Pettis Pools & Patio has been recognized 25 times for excellence both locally and nationally and has been voted “Rochester’s Choice #1 Pool Company” for the past ten years. The business continues to be family owned and run and is thriving. Pettis has the largest Softtub division in the United States and employs over 75 people during the summer season.

“She truly was the matriarch of Pettis Pools & Patio,” Julie says. “Her influence has shaped everyone at Pettis Pools & Patio and we will continue to follow her example and make her and my father (Larry died in 2003) proud.”

Mary Lou Rockow, an advertising representative for Westside News, has been the rep for Pettis Pools & Patio for about 30 years, she says. Erma and Mary Lou became good friends over that time.

“She always knew what she wanted and when,” Mary Lou remembers. “I tend to be pushy, and she would remind me gently who is the boss - the customer. She always had beautiful, precise ads.”

Erma and Larry Pettis, founders of Pettis Pools & PatioMary Lou also remembers that anytime Erma would launch an advertising campaign, she would ask for a good deal. The deal was never finalized until after Erma would ask, “Is that your best price?”

When Mary Lou’s family put in a pool, it was Mary Lou who turned the tables on Erma and asked her for a good deal. After Erma gave Mary Lou the price, Mary Lou was sure to ask, “Is that your best price?”

“She was so special, so professional,” Mary Lou says. “She taught me a lot. She was so proud of her employees and told me, ‘Don’t ever retire.’ She never did and I don’t plan to. You have to keep working your brain. Erma loved life and lived it to the fullest.”

Erma and Mary Lou were excited the day they realized they shared the same faith: Missouri Synod Lutheran.

When Erma was diagnosed with cancer, Mary Lou made her a FROG comfort quilt. The letters FROG stand for Fully Rely On God, something Mary Lou says she does and Erma did. Erma treasured the quilt and told Mary Lou she took it to chemo treatments. It has now been passed on to daughter, Julie.

Mary Lou says the folks at Pettis Pools are crediting Erma with a brisk business during all the hot weather this summer. “They know Erma talked to the Big Guy,” Mary Lou says.

Erma’s long-time pastor at St. Paul Lutheran in Hilton was Albert Zoller. He says Erma truly understood the difference between the church as an institution versus the Body of Christ.

“She knew that the Church of Christ was perfect and that the institution was saddled with human weakness. Consequently, she knew the gift of grace and forgiveness that comes through the Body of Christ. Because of her faith in Jesus as her Lord and Savior, and the blessings that are inherent in the Gospel, she lived a very thankful and grateful life, being fully aware of the gifts and blessings entrusted to her from her heavenly Father.”

Dan Kubit works at M&T Bank in Hilton and says Erma always came in personally to do banking because she wanted to see everybody in the branch.

“It was a hard loss,” he says of Erma’s death. “I considered her a friend. She touched everybody that she met and always had a smile. She was the sweetest woman you would ever want to know.”

Kubit says Erma’s three children are the same way.

“She lived by the Golden Rule - (she felt) it’s the right way of doing things in life,” he says. “She would always leave a person better off than they had been before. I always felt good about things after talking to Erma.”

SUNY Brockport always had a special place in Erma’s heart, daughter Julie says. She was active in the Class of 1953 scholarship fund. Tom Taber, a member of the Brockport Class of 1953 says after the 45th reunion of the Brockport State Class of 1953, it was decided to endow a scholarship for students planning to become teachers, to be presented at their 50th reunion as a class gift.

“Erma was enlisted to write fund raising publicity and she produced a series of brochures. We were aiming to raise $5,000 - a lofty sum for retired school teachers. Thanks largely to her efforts, we had over $20,000 by the 50th reunion. Since then, with continued contributions and accrued interest, the sum is now over $60,000. We are now able to give three scholarships annually, with perhaps more in the future,” Taber says.

Erma was also a major force behind a memory book from the 50th, doing much of the organizing and writing, Taber notes. “I give her the lion’s share of the credit for the great success of these ventures. She was a great organizer, a tireless worker, a great classmate and friend.”

Taber remembers that for much of Erma’s life she was called Norky - a childhood nickname. “In the last couple of years, we began calling her Evangeline, a name she chose for Facebook. Whatever the name, she will be long remembered.”



 

 

ARCHIVES - WEEK OF JULY 15, 2012

LOCAL NEWS - WEEK OF JULY 15, 2012

Oath of office administered to two board members

by Kristina Gabalski

Mary Ann Thorpe administers Oath of Office to newly elected Trustee Bill Andrews. Photograph by Kristina Gabalski.Brockport’s newest village trustee took the oath of office during the July 10 regular meeting of the village board.

Bill Andrews asked former mayor Mary Ann Thorpe to administer the oath (Andrews had been officially sworn-in by Village Clerk Leslie Ann Morelli earlier in the day).

Thorpe remembered when Andrews came to visit her during her term as mayor. He didn’t come to complain, she said, but to volunteer his services to the village.

Thorpe said she asked herself at the time, “Can this guy be real?”

Andrews said tongue-in-cheek that he asked Thorpe to administer the oath because, “Mary Ann is more responsible than anyone else for getting me into this mess.”

On a more serious note, he explained that, “I observed and admired her leadership style.”

Brockport Village Clerk Leslie Ann Morelli administers oath to Trustee Margaret Blackman. Photograph by Kristina Gabalski.Andrews thanked his running mate Margaret Blackman (who was re-elected to the board) and the members of the committee who worked on the election campaign.

He also thanked “the 575 voters who expressed their confidence in my ability to do this job.”

During his first report Andrews announced he regards his service to the board, “as a volunteer activity,” and will donate his salary to “various good causes within the village.”

Trustee Margaret Blackman was administered the oath of office by Village Clerk Leslie Ann Morelli.

She said she is looking forward to her new term and welcomed Trustee Andrews to the board saying she admires “his even-handedness in decision making.”

 

Code enforcement issues continue

During their reports, board members briefly discussed a plan by Mayor Connie Castaneda to move the Office of Code Enforcement from the Police Department back to the Village Hall in the wake of the defeat by voters of a referendum which would have switched supervision of the code enforcement officer from the mayor to the police chief.

Trustee Margaret Blackman said the move would create an unnecessary expense and is “not in the best interest of the village. Code Enforcement has been functioning more effectively, efficiently and productively than before.”

Trustee Carol Hannan asked that the issue of moving the office back to the Village Hall be put on the agenda for the next Village Board work session which is scheduled for August 7.

She read a statement from Police Chief Daniel Varrenti warning that if the Code Enforcement Office is moved back to the Village Hall, $3,983.89 in Federal Asset Forfeiture Funds would have to be reimbursed.

Trustee Hannan noted expending that amount of money “would require board approval.”

Mayor Castaneda said the concerns of the trustee would be forwarded to village attorney Robert Leni. She cited an email sent by Leni to trustees dated July 5 regarding the board’s ability to expend funds and direct department heads.

The mayor said she had stated that the village board should wait until the referendum was approved before making the move.

“The public has made a mandate,” Mayor Castaneda said. She argued that the motion made by trustees to move the code enforcement office was an “illegal motion” and that trustees had “no authority to do so.”

7/15/12


Stone Store supporters to ask for one year extension

by Kristina Gabalski

Members of the Old Stone Store Preservation Committee (OSSPC) and the Landmark Society say they plan to ask the Town of Clarendon for a one-year extension of their deadline to find a buyer for the historic old stone store which sits at the busy intersection of Rts. 31A and 237 in the hamlet.

OSSPC leader Erin Anheier says the group is confident the town board will grant the extension at their next meeting July 17. “We’ve made a lot of progress this year,” she says.

The building, constructed of Medina sandstone in 1836, has been vacant since 2007 and is now owned by the town. It was used most recently for apartments and in July of 2011, the town board granted the OSSPC one year to rehabilitate the property and bring it back on the tax rolls. The town had planned to demolish the structure.

The store is “now on the State and National Registers of Historic Places,” Anheier says, meaning that an owner/developer would be eligible for tax credits of up to 40 percent of the rehabilitation costs.

The town board has agreed to sell the store for $1 to the buyer who presents the best plan for redevelopment. Preference will be given to plans providing commercial space or offices on the first floor and the same or storage on the second floor.

Over the past year the OSSPC, under the direction of Anheier and Town Historian Melissa Ierlan, has cleaned-up the building, made immediate necessary repairs and had the property surveyed by Jim Glogowski, who donated his time and services.

Donations paid for the hiring of an architect to prepare a report. “He found that the building is structurally sound,” Anheier says.

She, Ierlan and Caitlin Meives of the Landmark Society say they are optimistic about the building’s future.

“There is one person actively developing a plan and three others who have expressed an interest,” Anheier says.

The three say the community needs to get past what the store has been for the past 20 years - an apartment building - and see what it could be. “Clarendon is more than just a stop sign,” they say.

A potential developer must be a “person who has a vision to visualize something new,” Meives says. She adds that the stone store has been a very important part of the community both visually and culturally.

“Many people have memories of coming here when it was a store. It’s the center of the community,” she says and notes the property is a unique surviving example of an early 19th century commercial building and its rehabilitation has potential economic value to the town.

“It could become a catalyst for development in the hamlet,” she says.

7/15/12


DOT defines alternatives to ease traffic at Routes 531/36/31

by Kristina Gabalski

A grade-separated full diamond interchange like the one at the intersection of Route 531 and Union Street (Route 259) in Spencerport is one option for easing traffic in the Route 31/531 area in western Ogden.New York State DOT officials presented three final alternatives for easing travel conditions at the interchange of Route 531 and Route 36 in Ogden during a public information meeting June 27 at the Cosgrove Middle School in Spencerport.

Two new alternatives show an at-grade intersection and the third alternative includes a bridge to carry Route 531 over Route 36. Improvements to Route 31, which are also part of the project, were also discussed.

Kevin Bush, NYSDOT Regional Design Engineer, said officials have taken into consideration comments made during a public meeting held in September 2010. Those comments included concern over speeds downstream along Route 31 and the difficulty of getting out of side roads and driveways along Route 31.

ThumbnailDave Balthaser, an engineer with Stantec, discussed the three alternatives which he said would improve safety, reduce accidents and congestion.

The first alternative discussed was an at-grade conventional four-legged signalized intersection. Route 531 would connect directly to Route 31 and transition from a four-lane expressway to a two-lane rural arterial west of Route 36. Brockport-Spencerport Road would be severed approximately 2,000 feet west of Route 36, ending in a cul-de-sac.

All three alternatives include the severing of Brockport Spencerport Road and connecting Route 531 directly into Route 31 west of Route 36.

The cost of the first alternative is estimated at $13.8 million and would take two seasons to build.

The second alternative is an at-grade signalized superstreet median crossover intersection.

The median cross-over design would require Route 36 traffic to perform a U-turn in the median to progress either north or south through the intersection with Route 531. Drivers would not be able to progress straight through the intersection, but would have to turn right onto Route 531, make a U-turn and turn right back on to Route 36 (Washington Street).

Balthaser said this alternative “notably improves intersection operations and greatly reduces the opportunity for high speed, right-angle accidents.”

The current cost estimate for this alternative is $14 million and would take two seasons to build.

Many people at the meeting expressed doubts that drivers on Route 36 would be able to pull into Route 531 traffic to complete the U-turn. Officials responded that the design creates breaks in traffic to accommodate the turn.

The final and most costly alternative is a grade-separated full diamond interchange like the one at the intersection of Route 531 and Union Street (Route 259) in Spencerport. The cost of this alternative is $25 million and would take two seasons to build.

Several residents said they would prefer spending more money for the full diamond interchange. One resident, whose home will be taken to facilitate the project (officials say six re-locations are necessary) said that if he has to give up something precious to him, he wants the project to truly benefit those who use the roadway. “I’m hoping to have the best possible outcome for all of us,” he said.

Residents continued to express concerns about speed and accessibility to Route 31 from side roads.

Improvements proposed for Route 31 include realignment of the intersections at Hubbell and Gallup Roads. The Gallup Road intersection would be realigned to the south and incorporate a continuous two-way left turn lane along Route 31 between Salmon Creek Road and Gallup Road.

The Hubbell Road intersection would incorporate a channelized island slightly re-aligned to the north to provide left turn storage to Hubbell and an acceleration lane for a left turn movement out of Hubbell Road. A short segment immediately east of Gallup Road would provide a center lane refuge area before the proposed Route 31 raised median for storage and as an acceleration area for southbound Gallup Road left turn movements.

The purchase of property on the north side of Route 31 will eliminate access to Route 31 from Gallup to the Route 531 tie-in and curves will be added at both Hubbell and Gallup Roads to slow traffic and allow turns to occur in a widened median area at the intersections.

Officials said detours would be put in place during construction. Route 531 would be shut down at Union Street (Route 259) and traffic would be sent along Route 31.

When asked about a change in speed limit along Route 31, officials said there would be no change.

The DOT has $8 million which has been earmarked for construction for this location only, Kevin Bush said.

“We are short $6 to 16 million and have to identify funding,” he said.

He added that the Route 31 improvements now include an eight-foot shoulder which would accommodate bike traffic. The DOT had discussed building a multi-use trail along Route 31 to accommodate Bike Route 5. Bush said a trail is still a future possibility.

The DOT will hold a public hearing this fall to present its decision on the final alternative. Construction could begin in the spring of 2014.

7/15/12



FEATURE STORIES - WEEK OF JULY 15, 2012

Soldiers on the march: Ron Zorn recreates historic battle scenes

by Terra Osterling

Ron stands along just one of many racks of figures he has cast and painted. In all, he has made over 8,000 of them.Living in Los Angeles as a young boy during World War II, Ron Zorn of Churchville remembers seeing Marines passing through, headed overseas, and even then understood their sacrifice.

A generation later, after a 35 year career teaching physics at Spencerport High School, that same reverence for sacrifice and love of country is what has driven Zorn to cast and paint thousands of lead soldiers. His painstaking research has resulted in recreated battle scenes from the Revolutionary War, Civil War and, most recently on display at the Newman-Riga Library, the War of 1812.

“It wasn’t easy,” says Zorn of the military campaigns that have kept our country first independent, then united -- “(These) trials and tribulations to get us where we are … inspired me to do something.”

“So much of our history is based on forts and wars,” says Zorn, explaining that in addition to in-depth reading, he and wife, Alice, have visited forts, cemeteries and historic battle sites to learn about the nation’s early conflicts.

A close up of the figure of Colonel Patrick O'Rorke shows the high degree of detail Ron incorporates in his cast figures. Colonel Patrick O'Rorke, a local hero, led his men to repulse the Rebels. The 140th regiment, a grouping that included many men from Churchville and Chili and some men from Ogden and Brockport; the Rebels were made up of men from Texas and Alabama.In particular, Zorn researches the local 140th Regiment of the New York Infantry and the Civil War battles in which they fought. He also has a special interest in the Revolutionary War.

Some of the cannons Ron built from cast parts. He builds all his figures and pieces on a 1/32 scale.His recent display at the Newman Riga Library was of the War of 1812 Battle of Chippewa at what is now Niagara-on-the-Lake, Ontario, Canada.

“It was the first time the United States had an organized army with uniformed ‘regulars,’ ” says Zorn, much to the surprise of the British, who were pushed back to Fort George. He emphasizes the significance of the Battle of Chippewa because it was the Americans’ first showing as professional soldiers instead of poorly trained militia.

“That’s why I happened to pick that particular battle for the display,” Zorn says of the defining moment in American military history.

Zorn had already once visited Fort Niagara, the American fort now a historic site in Youngstown, N.Y., but needed to make 1812-era soldiers. He got to work on the figures, acquired a map of the battle and began researching in books and on the internet to reconstruct the scene as accurately as possible, including the uniform colors and styling.

A diorama of the battle of Little Round Top, a key Union victory during the Battle of Gettysburg, features simulated rock formations and soldiers from the Union and the Confederate States. Leading the 140th Regiment Union defense is the figure of Colonel Patrick O'Rorke, standing on a high point.During this research process, Zorn discovered that the Americans had switched to gray uniforms around this time due to a shortage of blue fabric. He further learned that the gray West Point Military Academy dress uniform is a replica of the uniform worn by the Americans at the Battle of Chippewa.

He set to work painting gray-uniformed soldiers as well as Native American figures to represent the Mohawk and Seneca, who, he says, had chosen sides for a proxy battle.

A history of loving history

Zorn has been consumed by history since boyhood, admiring the local doctor’s flintlock rifle collection, watching Daniel Boone movies and the Revolutionary War film “Drums Along the Mohawk.” Artistic talent passed down from his mother, who he remembers painting ceramics and beads, was encouraged by his third grade teacher. While he went on to follow math and science through college and career, he returned to art in retirement after receiving figure molds as a birthday gift.

To get different configurations of soldiers Ron casts individual parts like left and right arms, rifles, cannons and other elements. He molds figure's arms (left and right), rifles, cannons to put as much realism as he can into the castings. Parts are put together using Superglue and Tacky Glue. He paints the pieces appropriately, using information he gleans from his library of books about American battles. “It’s more fun to make the molds yourself,” says Zorn, going on to describe the roughly ninety-minute, thirteen-step process from the clay impression, to mold, to completed 1:32 scale lead (or tin) soldier.

“You’re never pressed for time when you’re retired and you don’t want to rush,” he says. One out of every ten soldiers may be returned to Zorn’s melting pot if they don’t meet muster and he is careful to keep his work area ventilated and to protect himself from spills. While watching history programs in the mornings, he paints in both acrylics (for a matte finish and faster drying time) and oil enamels (his preferred medium for a shiny finish).

Zorn concentrates on the details as he paints a miniature soldier for a diorama of a battle. A lover of history, the retired Spencerport high school physics teacher has cast thousands of figures in a 13 step process to complete 1:32 scale lead or tin soldiers. His painting table is surrounded by books, photos, and postcards for reference. Off to one side is a tray of lead arms to be attached later; Ron says that extended limbs easily break off in the casting process so he casts these separately. A wooden block holds increasingly finer paintbrushes, though “you can’t get a brush fine enough for the whites of eyes,” says Zorn of this detailed work.

“No matter the project – if you have the proper tools, you can do anything,” says this grandson of a tool-and-die maker who worked for George Eastman.

“Having the ability to put things together with your hands,” is another of Zorn’s inherited talents and a deeply held value. In fact, lead soldier displays are only one among a long list of projects Zorn has undertaken in retirement.

Together with his entire family, Zorn has built his and Alice’s cabin-styled home in Churchville, homes for his children, and is currently working on centerpieces for his granddaughter’s wedding in the Adirondacks later this summer. In fact, when Alice pondered ideas for the bride and groom’s table, she says that Ron came out of the workshop 24 hours later with beautifully painted wooden loons.

A rack of United States Civil War soldiers is layered over a rack of Revolutionary War figures.Making soldiers involves creating a mold out of an original figure from epoxy and hardener. The mold is split in half and rejoined, then molten pewter, at about 600 degrees F is poured into the mold. After about ten minutes, the mold is pulled apart and later Ron paints the details, even the lips on the faces, using very fine brushes and enamel paint.Zorn’s basement workshop is also the “barracks” – one area of 23 floor-to-ceiling reinforced shelves holds 300 soldiers on each, amounting to nearly 7,000 marching, rifle-aiming and charging figures. In addition to those shelves, nearly every horizontal surface, including overhead basement wall framing, is lined with soldiers at the ready.

“He looks at each as a child, a creation,” says Alice, explaining why Ron doesn’t sell his soldiers and battle scenes, or the fine antebellum ladies, Santa Clauses, Mrs. Clauses, snowmen, nutcrackers and sports figures that become gifts for family and friends.

While wondering whether all this labor will ever do anyone else any good, Zorn answers his own question when he says, “The value is in the doing and in someone gaining some appreciation of our history -- that’s the ultimate reward.”

Zorn continues to research the 140th Regiment and is always pleased for the opportunity to display his work for the community. The Battle of Chippewa was one of a half-dozen displays that have been exhibited at the Newman-Riga Library and the Zorns’ recent visit to Fort Stevens, near Washington, D.C., was in preparation for a depiction of the first Civil War battle at Manassas, Virginia, for Ron’s next display at the Library.

Photos by Walter Horylev

7/15/12


Brockport Area Community Concert Band makes debut at July 4 celebration

Music “of the people, by the people, and for the people” in the Brockport area

“For families who make music, what you put together for Brockport families is just a precious thing, a special memory, and an artistically satisfying experience, a gift to the community.” – Brenda Tremblay

“One of the great things about playing a musical instrument is that you can be active with it as long as you want to be.” – Shawn Halquist

by Doug Hickerson

The Brockport Area Community Concert Band in its premiere performance at the Morgan-Manning House July 4. Its 85 members are directed by Shawn Halquist. Photograph by Rick Nicholson.This year’s “Old Fashioned 4th of July” at Morgan-Manning House saw the rebirth and return of the concert band that had been a major feature of the celebration for 30 years. Last year, the Brockport Central High School Band’s rousing opening concert was missing, due to school district budget cuts. “I was really upset about it, because it was something I looked forward to every summer,” said Michelle Lopez, who graduated from Brockport High School last month. “I was so happy that they brought it together again.” Michelle plays the flute and piccolo. Her piccolo solo during the stirring “Stars and Stripes Forever” concert finale won the audience’s applause.

Michelle was one of 85 members of the new Brockport Area Community Concert Band, with musicians ranging in age from 11 to 70. “It’s even better this year,” she said, “because you get to see not only band people from school, but your teachers, your church members, and others in the community.” It was the regeneration of the high school band for the July 4 event, expanded to include community talent. The variety of musicians included 6th grade and high school band members, band directors of Brockport’s 4th, 5th and 6th grade bands, and returning band alumni. Band directors from other school districts joined. There were three families with four members and several more families with at least two members.

Shawn Halquist, director and producer of the new Brockport Area Community Concert Band, aggressively rounded up the variety of community musicians. Shawn, a director of the Brockport High School Band, noted a “growing movement across the country to create intergenerational bands. One of the great things about playing a musical instrument is that you can be active with it as long as you want to be.” Shawn and Andy Stoker share the directorship of the Brockport High School Band. The two colleagues agreed that the intergenerational community band was the way to go for the July 4 event, “especially with the wonderful support there is in the Brockport community for our music programs,” Shawn said. “We gave it a try and it worked very well.”

Band Members

Doug Briggs, chemical engineer, with son and two daughters

It worked very well for the Briggs family in Brockport. Doug Briggs played trombone, along with his son Sam, also on trombone, and daughters Emily on French horn and Sarah on clarinet -- all of them in the Brockport school music program. Doug is a chemical engineer. He graduated from Hilton High School in 1979 where he played in the band, continued with the Hilton Firemen’s Band, and is now with the Hilton Generations Band. “The new community band was an attractive idea for us,” Doug said. “I played trombone since grade school. It’s been important for me to demonstrate different opportunities for my kids to continue playing as they get older.”

 

Andy Stoker, Amy (Maar) Stoker, and the Maar family musicians

Andy Stoker, his wife Amy (Maar), and the extended family were a strong presence in the new band. Andy plays the saxophone, and so does Amy, a fourth grade teacher at Hill School. Her sister, Holly Sheehan, teaches first grade in Churchville-Chili, and plays the tenor saxophone. Her brother Scott plays the tuba and his wife, Debbie, plays the oboe. Their daughter, Natalie, is in sixth grade and plays the tenor saxophone.

 

Brenda Tremblay, morning host of WXXI Classical 91.5, and her father

Brenda Tremblay is the morning host of WXXI Classical 91.5. She is also the music director at St. Luke’s Episcopal Church in Brockport. She lives in Brockport with her husband, two teens and a pre-teen -- all three in the Brockport music program. Brenda grew up in Albion where her father, Sid Bolton, was band director at Albion High School. She played the bassoon under his directorship. After high school, Brenda did not play the instrument for 20 years, until she read about the new community band in the Suburban News. She contacted Shawn Halquist who welcomed her and provided her with a bassoon. After a few weeks of practice, she convinced her father, now 70 and retired, to join the band with his trombone. “It was the first time I had ever played in a band with my Dad. It was just a fun experience,” Brenda said. “For families who make music, what you put together for Brockport families is just a precious thing, a special memory, and an artistically satisfying experience, a gift to the community.”

Brenda’s compliment was directed to the Western Monroe Historical Society which sponsored the July 4 event and to the Brockport Central School District. The not-for-profit organization and public school system collaborated on bringing back the band to the “Old Fashioned 4th of July.” The Historical Society used part of the “Bring Back the 4th” Liberty Mutual Insurance grant which it had received last year. Shawn Halquist launched the intergenerational community band that exceeded all expectations for the opening concert. A record turnout of about 500 citizens received the community’s gift of music with enthusiasm and generous applause. It was a good day for the Brockport community.

7/15/12


4th of July at The Morgan Manning House in Brockport

 

 

 

The Harradines at the 4th of July celebration at the Morgan Manning House in Brockport: Sarah and Jeff with children Lucy, Lily and Andy. Photograph by Rick Nicholson.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The Excelsior Fife and Drum Band at the Morgan Manning July 4th event. Photograph by Rick Nicholson.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Jeff Brown as Abe Lincoln reading The Gettysburg Address. Photograph by Rick Nicholson.

 

 

7/15/12


Nominate someone for Hamlin Heritage Award

An Open House on Sunday, September 23 at North Star History Center will recognize the winner of the Hamlin Heritage Award. To nominate someone for the award visit www.Hamlinny.com or stop in at the Hamlin Town Clerk’s Office for criteria and nomination forms. Deadline to submit nominees is August 24.

Provided information

7/15/12


Cool Kids! families “Walk their Green Talk!”

Popular series turns recycling from inconvenience to habit - with impressive results

Cory Phillips and daughter Kendall recycle sneakers at Cool Kids! The popular event series attracts a large audience each week Fridays, at 7 p.m. at Sagawa Park, who recycle an average of 1,000- pairs of sneakers annually. Cook Kids! Green Kids! also recycles used school/office supplies each Friday. Submitted photo by Savannah Richards.Cool Kids! events have always encouraged “actively living green” but now the organization is reaching out as never before to turn those green thoughts into fun, active habits through large used sneaker and used school/office supplies drives! Families and communities are invited to bring these items to the “Cool Kids! Green Kids!” event series at Sagawa Park, 100 Main Street, Brockport, Fridays at 7 p.m. through July 27.

“The biggest barrier we’ve found to initiating a green project anywhere - is people’s belief that a new habit causes them an inconvenience. Saving their sneakers or bringing old office supplies to another location is seen as a big pain, compared to tossing them in the trash right now. But here’s what we know: We may talk green, but we don’t always walk green. Kids do what we do - not what we say. Those kids - teach their kids - who teach their kids. That’s the REAL green picture! Taking a few extra steps today - can change entire GENERATIONS long after we’re gone,” says Steve Appleton, Cool Kids! Director.

Cool Kids! collects used school and office supplies for GreenSeeds, a local nonprofit, which sorts and redistributes those supplies to non profits and school kids. Cool Kids! actively works with Nike-Reuse-a-Shoe, Monroe County Department of Environmental Services, and new partners Green Sneakers and Soles4Souls to collect and recycle sneakers to children in need or turn them into astroturf, insulation and more, Appleton said. These two recycling initiatives have resulted in an annual average of over 1,000 pairs of sneakers and 50 boxes of used office/school supplies collected the last four years.

Anyone can bring used school, office or craft supplies and old sneakers to any “Cool Kids! Green Kids!” event in Brockport (as well as other community donation sites) to be recycled. Participants are encouraged to check the complete lists of both recycling initiatives on the Cool Kids website and Facebook page (Cool Kids!).

Appleton sums up going green with this credo: “We really want people to think - at the moment they’re going to toss - ‘Can I recycle or reuse this?’ That’s the start of a new habit! That’s the habit kids pick up on - and pass to their kids! That’s green! That’s action! That’s cool.”

Cool Kids! is actively seeking those who want to start their own school supply or sneaker drives at their local school, office or gym. Contact Cool Kids! at coolkids@rochester.rr.com for simple tips, advice and support for starting your local drive. For a complete list of donation sites and event schedules, visit www.generationcool.biz. or on Facebook: (Cool Kids!) For information: call The Cool Hotline at 585-637-3984. Cool Kids! is a program of B.I.S.C.O. (Brockport Integrated Service Community Organization).

Provided information

7/15/12


Brockport Rotary presents club awards

 

Josephine Matela, former Brockport village mayor and owner of the Red Bird Tea Shop and Cafe, was presented with the Rudy Smith Community Service Award. She is shown with outgoing club president Lorrie D’Angelo, Assistant District Governor Bill Gormont (Greece Rotary) and District 7120 Governor Gaven Hurley (Penfield Rotary). Mary Jo Orzech nominated Matela and related Matela’s many achievements to the group. Matela’s plaque reads: “For being a long time proponent, supporter and leader in the ongoing quest to make Brockport a ever better place in which to live.”

 

 

 

 

 

Fred Kimmel, three-time club president received the Irv Kropman Award for Club Service, an award Kimmel helped create when he was president years ago, and for which he described its origin at the changeover dinner. Everyone enjoyed his complete surprise at receiving the award. Kimmel is shown with ADG Bill Gormont, DG Gaven Hurley and Incoming President Doug Clare.

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The Kendall Community has been celebrating their 2012 Bicentennial throughout the spring and summer.

Since May 1, many community members both young and old, along with others from Hamlin and Medina, have been spending their evenings and Saturdays rehearsing for the community musical presentation of “The Music Man.” Bob Ryan and Cindy Curtis play Harold Hill and Marian Paroo, the lead roles.

The cast includes many mature adults, young adults as well as young teens and even youth ages 6, 7 and 8. The show will be presented on both July 27 and 28 at the David Doyle Kendall Jr. Sr. High School. Showtime is 7 p.m. each night. The performances are free.

Bicentennial memorabilia will be available to purchase including the Kendall Bicentennial DVD, “Kendall, Yesterday, Today and Tomorrow.”

Provided photos and information

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On June 25 members of the Brockport Police Stetson Club and the Brockport Police Explorers purchased, prepared and served lunch to about 150 campers and staff at Camp Abilities. The campers are blind, visually impaired and or have hearing impairment.

The campers come to Brockport every year from around the state to spend a week at The College at Brockport. During their stay they participate in track and field events, horse back riding, swimming and other events.

This is the second year that the Stetson Club has helped the campers by providing a lunch.

Provided photo

7/15/12


Hilton Mayor Joe Lee presents Certificates of Recognition to two people who competed in the Special Olympics, Parma resident Dominic Wenzel, 12, and Hilton resident Shawn Madigan, 34. Dominic competed in the May event held at Rush-Henrietta schools and received a 1st place medal in the 100 yard dash and a 4th and 5th prize ribbon for Skill, Courage, Sharing and Joy. Shawn competed in two Special Olympics, one in Buffalo on June 16, where he received a 2nd place medal in the 50 meter dash and the softball throw, and at the regionals held in Clarkson on June 26, coming in first in both events.

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Churchville Mayor Nancy Steedman and Spencerport Mayor Joyce Lobene joined with other elected officials in the reading of the Declaration of Independence on Saturday, July 7 at Highland Bowl. The reading preceded the Shakespeare at the Bowl production of Richard III. Boy Scouts led the audience in the Pledge of Allegiance followed by the officials each reading sections of the Declaration.

Provided photo

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SPORTS NEWS - WEEK OF JULY 15, 2012

AREA

Local athletes take part in Eddie Meath All-Star Game

The Eddie Meath Senior All-Star Football game was held Saturday, July 7 at St. John Fisher College.

Among those who participated were:

•Jacob DeRooy, Spencerport High School. Played Varsity Football and Varsity Lacrosse. Career football stats: 65 tackles, 7 sacks, 3 fumble recoveries; Season: 35 tackles, 4 sacks, 2 fumble recoveries. 1st Team All-County 2011, All-Greater Rochester Honorable Mention, Scholar Athlete. Academic honors include RIT Computing Medal, Presidential Academic Excellence Award, New York State Boys State Delegate. Plans to attend Clarkson University this fall.

Cheerleaders participating include:

•Brittany Curreri, Spencerport High School. Participated in Varsity gymnastics at Athena, Varsity Cheer in Spencerport. State champion in gymnastics - vault 2006 and 2008, bars 2006, all-around 2006, Gymnast of the Year 2006 and 2008. Received two sectional titles in cheer, sectional title in gymnastics at Athena, Greater Rochester Champions and Elite Eight. High Honor student throughout high school. Plans to attend Monroe Community College to study criminal justice.

•Megan Gooding, Spencerport High School. Participated in Varsity Cheerleading (fall and winter), Track and Field. All County Cheerleader, MVP Outdoor for 2011, Scholar Athlete, Nancy Saxton Leadership Award, US Army Leadership Award, Ontario Honda Scholarship recipient. Team awards: Four time Section V Champions, four time Greater Rochester Elite Eight. Scholar athlete 2010, 2011; High Honor Roll since 2008. Plans to attend Alleghany College to study biochemistry.

•Tielyer Trybus, Hilton High School. Second Team All-County 2010, First Team All County Fall 2010 and Fall 2011, First Team All County Winter 2012. Coaches Award Fall 2011, Diane Miller Award - Outstanding Contributor to Cheerleading 2012. Plans to attend Monroe Community College in the fall.

Section V Coaches of the year, star players, cheerleaders, and coaches were honored at a pre-game banquet on July 6 at the RIT Inn and Convention Center.

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2012 League Champions

 

 

Wolf Pack - left to right, front row: Angelo Piperni, Ethan George, Jimmy McCann, Jonathan Bradfield, Jacob Bagnato; middle row, Dylan Baker, Jason Nau, Jacob Smith, Colton VanBrederode, Zachary Nau, Garrett Bonacci, top row, Coach Baker, Coach Nau, Coach Piperni. Not pictured, Jaicob King and Coach Bradfield.

Provided photo

7/15/12

 

 

 

 

 

 

Golf’s biggest hitters tee it up for longest drive

Red Oak Golf Range will host local qualifying events for the 2012 RE/MAX World Long Drive Championship on Friday, July 27 and Saturday, July 28.

Area golfers are invited to compete in the premier event in power golf. Qualifying begins at noon on Friday and 10 a.m. on Saturday. Depending on number of entrants, ending time may conclude on or before 5 p.m.

Competition will take place in two adult divisions - open, senior (45-54) and super senior (55+). The fee is $40 per entry.

Contestants hit six drives per entry, with their longest (in bounds) official drive determining their place in the final standings.

Top finishers advance to the RE/MAX district regional competition in late August at a Pennsylvania qualifying site. The ultimate goal is to earn a spot at the 2012 RE/MAX WLDC finals, which take place in Mesquite, Nevada in October.

“We’re excited to be part of the first-phase qualifying for this hugely popular international event,” said site director Joe McKain, Red Oak’s owner. “This is our 11th year hosting this event and we’re hoping someone from our area makes it all the way to the RE/MAX world finals next fall. We have plenty of big hitters here in the Brockport-Rochester area, so I think we’ll have a chance to send someone to the show. We’ll see.” Red Oak Gold Range is located at 17071 Ridge Road West, just over the Orleans County line in the Town of Murray. The phone number in the pro shop is (585) 638-1002.

More information about the RE/MAX World Long Drive Championship is available on-line at www.red-oakgolf.com, www.longdrivers.com or www.remaxwldc.com.

Provided information

7/15/12


HILTON

Here’s the score

The Parma Town Hall Park Field Lighting Project which began in 2009 has just been completed with the installation of two scoreboards placed on Baseball Field #2 and Softball Field #4.

This project, supported from a $250,000 New York State Grant secured by Senator Joe Robach, brought field lights to two multi-purpose sport fields, built an outdoor batting cage, updated one of the park softball fields and added the two scoreboards.

Shown in the photo are employees from the Parma Parks Department and Parma Highway raising one of the scoreboards in place.

Photograph provided by Hilton-Parma Recreation

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SPENCERPORT

Spencerport Juniors Baseball 

 

 

 

Minors Division 2012 Playoff Champions - Mets - left to right, front row: Michael Capuano, Sal Sack, Todd Smith, Ryan Choate, Coach Sack; middle row: Michael Laubacher, Gregory Brockway, Brendan Harter, Ryan Davis, Dylan Harter, Mark Neu, David Brescia; top row: Coach Davis, Coach Harter, Coach Purpura, Coach Brescia.

 

 

Provided photo

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SCHOOL DISTRICT NEWS - WEEK OF JULY 15, 2012

AREA

 

Lakeside Twig Association awarded five $1,000 scholarships to students studying in a health related field.

At a regular meeting of the Twig Association held on Saturday, June 2, three of the winners were honored.

They are left to right: John P. Freel, Emily Palmeri and Michaela Burns. Other winners were Kyrin Emerson and Dylan Phillips, but were unable to attend.

 

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Kristy Giovannini (right) was selected Monroe County Young Citizen of the Year and received the recognition from Monroe County Executive Maggie Brooks on June 13.

This recognition acknowledges her hard work and dedication and the contributions made to her school and community. This honor is a reflection of her personal achievements, character and commitment of being a good citizen. Giovannini has been an active volunteer at the Aurora House Hospice Home of Spencerport since it opened in 2010 as well as a member of the Leo Club for six years. She is a recipient of the Gold Award, which represents the highest achievement in Girl Scouts.

She is a 2011 Churchville-Chili graduate and is currently attending Monroe Community College working on a degree in Human Services and has academically achieved the honor of being on the dean’s list this past semester.

Giovannini was nominated for this award by Monroe County Legislator Robert Colby. She is the daughter of John and Janice Giovannini.

Provided photo

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OBITUARIES - WEEK OF JULY 15, 2012

AREA

•Bave, Anne T., of Slingerlands, New York formerly of Brockport, died July 8, 2012 at age 98, after a long and fulfilling life. Anne met her husband, John Windas Bave, while working in New York City, and later moved with him to Brockport to raise a family. After her husband died in 1954, she courageously raised her three daughters, working to support them and send them to college. After retiring from Owens-Illinois and teaching sewing classes in Brockport, she moved to the Albany area to be closer to her daughters and grandchildren. She is survived by her daughters Jean Bave-Kerwin, Barbara Bave-Myers and Jacqueline Bave; her granddaughter and husband, Emily and Augusto Giacoman, and grandson Stephen Kerwin; her sons-in-law, Stephen Kerwin, James Myers and Daniel Dolan; and by her dear friends, Lisa Fox and Carolyn Jonietz. She was predeceased by her husband John, her sisters Natalie and Helen, and her brothers Henry, Louis and Joseph, as well as her sisters-in-spirit Ruth and Lorraine Cardillo.

A service in celebration of Anne’s life was held July 14 at New Comer Cannon Funeral Home, Colonie, New York. Contributions can be made to Unity House in Troy, 504 Broadway, Troy, New York 12180 or the Community Hospice of Albany, 445 New Karner Road, Albany, New York 12205 in her memory.

 

•McCauley, Eileen M. (Bilohlavek), of Statesville, North Carolina, previously from Brockport. Predeceased by parents, Henry and Doris; sisters, Rita and Jody; brother, Ray. Survived by her devoted husband, Robert; children, Wendy Wiegand and Jason Mann both of California; step-children, Kim (Scott) Peggs and Lynn (John) Blair; grandchildren, Chandler, Rachael, Megan, Jack, Austin and Samantha; brothers, Bob (Barb) Stein, George (Jan), Ted (Sharon), Allen (Helen), Hank (Linda) and Tim (Denise); sisters, Carol Hoadley, Chris Hemmerick and Kathy (Don) Batzel; many nieces, nephews and cousins.

A Memorial Service will be held at 1 Cottage Grove Circle, North Chili, on August 4 at 1 p.m. Those wishing can make a contribution to Gordon Hospice House, 2347 Simonton Road, Statesville, North Carolina 28625 in her memory.

 

•Turner, Kimberly D., of Livonia, formerly of Hilton, died suddenly July 7, 2012 at age 37 years. Predeceased by her husband Jon Turner, uncle Brian Schmidt, and grandfather Richard Gavigan. She is survived by her loving son Dillon Turner; mother Melinda (Lynn) Jiacobbe; father Richard (Michele) Gavigan; brother Robert (Sarah) Jiacobbe; nephew RJ; grandparents Leroy and Beverly Schmidt and Shirley Gavigan; uncle Curt (Lori) Roe and step-father Rob Jiacobbe; many nieces and nephews, dear and loving friends and family.

Funeral Services were held July 13 at the Kevin W. Dougherty Funeral Home Inc., Livonia. Contributions can be made to the Humane Society at Lollypop Farm, 99 Victor Road, Fairport 14450 in her memory.

 

BROCKPORT

•Barto, Earl G. Jr., July 10, 2012, age 55. Survived by his children, Jennifer, Sonia, Douglas and Laura; several grandchildren and one great granddaughter; his sisters, Judy and Suzanne; also many nieces, nephews and other relatives and dear friends.

A Prayer Service was held July 13 at Falvo Funeral Home, Rochester. Donations can be made to the Humane Society at Lollypop Farm in his memory.

 

•Stratton, Henry J., July 9, 2012. Predeceased by his parents Harvey and Oakie Stratton, brothers and sisters. He is survived by his loving wife of 60 years, Betty; children Henrietta (Charles) Jenkins, Kathy (Terry) Swanger, Karen (Jerry) Leastman, Larry (Loretta) Stratton; nine grandchildren; 15 great-grandchildren; one great-great grandson; step-grandchildren; one brother; four sisters; several nieces and nephews. Henry served in the US Army from 1952-1954.

A Funeral Service was held July 12 at the Fowler Funeral Home Inc., Brockport. Interment, Garland Cemetery. Contributions can be made to the Lakeside Beikirch Care Center, Brockport in his memory.

 

CHILI

•Farrell, Dorothy, July 8, 2012, at age 93. Predeceased by her husband, Robert and daughter, Janet (Farrell) Kostalnick. Survived by her children, Katherine Farrell, Margaret Bass, Michael (Susan) Farrell; grandchildren, Kevin (Lisa) Kostalnick, Jacqueline, Brian and Lisa Farrell, Meaghan Bass; great-grandchildren, Sarah and Natalie Kostalnick; brother-in-law, Willard Farrell; her sister-in-law, Marilyn Worthington; several nieces, nephews and cousins. Dorothy was a member of the Knights of Columbus Ladies Auxiliary and Knights of St. John.

A Funeral Mass was said July 11 at St. Pius the Tenth Church. Interment, St. Pius Cemetery. Contributions can be made to the School of the Holy Childhood in her memory.

 

•Lloyd, Mary E., July 7, 2012 at age 41. Predeceased by her father Robert Lloyd. Survived by her mother Mary Lloyd; best friend, Tracy Buhr; nephew Dakota Buhr; aunt Mable Scheuch. Mary was a graduate of Wheatland Chili High School, class of 89 and a bartender at Dribbles for 20 years.

Funeral Services were held July 9 at the Leo M. Bean & Sons Funeral Home, Chili. Interment, Grove Place Cemetery. Donations can be made to the American Cancer Society in her memory.

 

•Romero, Bethzaida “Betsy,” July 4, 2012 after a courageous battle with cancer at age 26. Predeceased by her parents. She is survived by her children, Ibby and Sophia; fiance,Greg Graham; brothers, a sister, aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, cousins and friends including the Nasca family.

A Memorial Gathering was held July 11 at the DiPonzio Funeral Home Inc., Gates. Private interment. Donations can be made to Strong Memorial Hospital, 300 East River Road, P.O. Box 278996, Rochester, New York 14627 in her memory.

 

HILTON

•De Meyer, Eugene P., On July 7, 2012. Predeceased by his sisters, Mary and Margaret. He is survived by his loving wife, Marilyn; devoted children, Richard and Elizabeth; two sisters, Clara Koerner, Jeanette (Bill) Symonds; several nieces and nephews. Lifelong farmer in Greece and Parma. Thirty-eight year volunteer and Past Chief at Greece Ridge Fire Department.

A Funeral Mass was said July 10 at Our Mother of Sorrows Church. Interment, Holy Ghost Cemetery. Donations can be made to Uniformed Firefighters Association, payable to Widow’s and Children’s Fund, 204 East 23rd Street, New York, NY 10010 in his memory.

 

•Turner, Ronald D., June 29, 2012 after a long illness. Ronald was born July 10, 1928 in Cooperstown, NY, son of Kenneth and Kathryn Davis Turner. He was raised in Lee, Oneida County. Predeceased by his brothers, Kenneth J. in 1944, and Gary A. in 2008; sister, Marie T. Juby French in 2007. He is survived by his wife of 63 years, Mariah M. Fox; children, Kathryn (Kent) Smith, Donna (Greg) Sommer, Kevin Turner, Kenneth Turner; grandchildren, Cory White, Mathew Turner; great-grandchild, Zoe White; sister, Nancy T. Nash; many nieces, nephews and cousins. Ronald served in the US Marine Corps between 1946-1948, which included a tour of duty in Tsingtao, China. He also served as drill sergeant in Parris Island, South Carolina during the Korean War. He was a retiree from 3M Company in Rochester.

Services and interment will be held at the convenience of the family. Contributions can be made to The Shepherd Home, 1595 Five Mile Line Road, P.O. Box 33, Penfield, New York 14526 in his memory.

 

HOLLEY

•Graden, Robert P. “Bob,” Died July 7, 2012. Predeceased by his brother William Graden. He is survived by his loving wife Missy; son Scott (Debra); daughters, Kim and Angela; son Art (Jill); granddaughter Brittany; siblings Wilma, Kathy, Bev, Gail, Judy and Joyce; several nieces and nephews.

A Memorial Service was held July 10 at the Fowler Funeral Home Inc., Brockport. Interment at the convenience of the family. Contributions can be made to Orleans County Hospice or Lollypop Farm in his memory.

 

KENT

•Woodcook, Veda M., Died peacefully at age 94. Veda was predeceased by her husband Robert. She is survived by her sister Mildred Baker; son Ron (Joan); daughter, Linda (Gary) Crawford; five grandchildren Matthew, Jaclyn, Kate (Dan) Stubblebine, Steven (Tiffany) Crawford and Erin Crawford; three great-grandchildren Hailey, Lindsay, and Kelsey; her loving niece/special friend Carol Petronio as well as several nieces and nephews. Veda worked at GE in Brockport for 10 years and was a life-time member of Concordia Lutheran Church, Kendall.

A Memorial Service was held July 12 at the Fowler Funeral Home Inc., Brockport. Interment, Kent Cemetery. Donations can be made to Concordia Lutheran Church, 1769 Kendall Road, P.O. Box 461, Kendall, NY 14476 in her memory.

 

NORTH CHILI

•Adams, Margaret Mary Shevlin, July 8, 2012 at age 94. Margaret is predeceased by her husband, Steve Adams; brothers, James, Charles, George and Richard Shevlin; sister, Ellen Shevlin. She is survived by her children, Richard J. (Gloria) Adams, Robert E. Adams, Kathleen M. Paul, Patricia L. Nadiak and Paul S. Adams; 13 grandchildren; 11 great-grandchildren; siblings, John Shevlin, Betty Zobel and Thomas (Linda) Shevlin; several nieces, nephews and cousins; many dear friends.

Her Funeral Mass was celebrated July 12 at St. John the Evangelist Church, Spencerport. Interment in St. Joseph’s Cemetery, Albion. Contributions can be made to the School of the Holy Childhood, HolyChildhood.org in her memory.

 

SPENCERPORT

•Bachers, John A., died July 2, 2012, age 70, in Whitefish Bay, Wisconsin with his wife Linda (nee Rohr) and sister Marianne at his bedside after a long battle with cancer. Growing up in Spencerport, he attended Syracuse University where he obtained a MA in Journalism and earned a master’s in library science from Simmons College, Boston, Massachusetts. He was a proud member of the Phi Gamma Delta fraternity. He served in the U.S. Coast Guard Reserves. With beloved wife, Linda, he enjoyed life in the Boston area for many years. He retired in 2008 after 38 years working for Conrail, the former New York Central and Amtrak. Preceding him in death are his parents, George and Martha Anne (nee Burke). He is survived by his devoted wife Linda; siblings Alan of Northampton, Massachusetts, Philip of Hollywood, Florida, Neil and Marianne (Rafael Trujillo) of San Francisco, California; nephew Ryan Bachers; nieces Katharine Huntley-Bachers and Dawn Bachers; many Burke cousins, and friends.

A Memorial Mass was held July 14 at Holy Family Catholic Church, Whitefish Bay, Wisconsin. Contributions can be made to Boy Scouts of America or the Ogden Farmers’ Library, Spencerport in his memory. Please visit the celebration of John’s life at Legacy.com.

 

•Fintak, Frank, age 89, died suddenly June 26, 2012 while vacationing in Ocala, Florida. Pre-deceased by his loving wife, Genevieve, he is survived by his daughter Deborah Olds; son-in-law, Carl Olds; son Gary Fintak; daughter-in-law Carla Fintak; grandchildren Dana Wakley, Samantha Wakley and Garrett Fintak; many nieces, nephews, cousins, and family. Raised by his sweet mother, Martha Fintak, in Point Breeze, NY, Frank had three sisters and two brothers, all predeceased. After serving in the Army during WWII, Frank was employed for over 25 years as a HVAC/R technician with Kodak, retiring in 1983.

A Memorial Service was held July 14 at Calvary Chapel of the Westside, Spencerport.

 

•Koetz, Theodore F. “Ted,” July 8, 2012, age 73. Ted was predeceased by his wife Gloria G. (Green) Koetz. Survived by his daughters, Kim (Mark) Camarata, Kris (Bob) Coffey and son, David (Molly Williams) Gardner; “loved like sons” Paul (Karen) Alguire and Paul (Sue) Condoluci; grandchildren, Caralyn Plimpton, Elizabeth Camarata, Megan Coffey and Sara Gardner; great granddaughters, Madalyn and Zoe; siblings, Jacqueline Koetz, Ellen Mae (Les) Carr, Marylee Koetz and Vincent (Mary Ellen) Koetz; brother-in-law, Richard (Micki) Green; special friend, Sunny Markert and her family; many nieces and nephews and lots of wonderful friends.

A Memorial Service was held July 14 at Walker Brothers Funeral Home, Inc., Spencerport. Private interment. Contributions can be made to Visiting Nurse Service Hospice, 2180 Empire Boulevard, Webster 14580 in his memory.



 

ARCHIVES - WEEK OF JULY 8, 2012

FEATURE STORIES - WEEK OF JULY 8, 2012

Good dogs for good homes

Pilots N Paws and Duffy’s Friends work together in animal rescue effort

by Kristina Gabalski

Neighbor Evie Campbell joins Lori Mufford in holding two puppies recently flown up with ten other dogs from North Carolina by Duffy's Friends, a Brockport rescue group founded by Lori in 1999. Included in the picture is Brody, a three year old Lab-Terrier mix who is Lori's pet. The two puppies, Pirate and Blondie, are ten-week-old Shihtzu mix; they were rescued from a hoarder, a family that had a large number of dogs but did not take proper care of them.Thanks to a group of caring animal lovers in Brockport, hundreds of dogs rescued from high-kill shelters in North and South Carolina have found loving homes and happy lives in this area.

“Hundreds of dogs are put to sleep each week in these shelters, only because they are homeless,” says Laurie LoMonaco, Media Manager and foster mom with Duffy’s Friends, Inc., a rescue group based in Brockport.

“We have contacts in the shelter areas who pull dogs for us and house them until they have transport to Rochester,” LoMonaco says.

On Saturday, June 16, two puppies (from the same litter) were flown into Ledgedale Airpark by John Greco, a Pittsburgh businessman who often flies the dogs at his own expense through the Pilots N Paws group from Goldsboro, North Carolina to Rochester or Brockport.

Subaru is the largest corporate sponsor of Pilots N Paws, LoMonaco says, so she invited Spurr Subaru to be part of the welcome committee at Ledgedale.

Lori Mufford (holding Samuel John, a 16 week old rescue who was flown in mid-April and is owned by Mackie LoMonaco), John Greco (Pilots N Paws pilot) and Randy Spurr of Spurr Subaru were on hand to greet the new puppy arrivals on June 16. Provided photo Spurr presented Duffy’s with a check for $200 that will provide eye surgery for one of the dogs flown in.

“Spurr Subaru in Brockport supports Duffy’s Friends,” Randy Spurr said, “and is proud to represent Subaru, a national supporter of Pilots N Paws. Spurr Subaru will again be holding a pet costume party in October that will benefit Duffy’s Friends,” he added

LoMonaco says the puppies flown in June 16 were the third litter Duffy’s has pulled from the same hoarder since the end of January.

“Animal control... was called in,” LoMonaco says. “Her dogs had never even been outdoors, much less to a vet. People don’t realize how bad the conditions are in the south for dogs.”

Four puppies were born in the litter - two stayed in North Carolina, one because it was critically ill. They will be sent here in the coming weeks, LoMonaco says.

John Greco's plane being unloaded of crates containing nine dogs and one Siamese cat. John said they were wonderful passengers until landing and then they started stressing a little. Greco is part of the Pilot N Paws program. Provided photo“The other two did come and were sick. The male was very sick. Both were taken to and stayed with Dr. Edwards at Brockport Animal Hospital. The male was given a feeding tube and meds through IVs,” LoMonaco explains.

The puppy made a miraculous recovery and both have been adopted together by a woman in Penfield. “All the puppies had Coccidia to varying degrees. While the tests came back negative, they were also exhibiting signs of Parvo,” LoMonaco says. “All are doing wonderful now and will be very healthy dogs.”

Lori Mufford, the founder of Duffy’s Friends, says the group was incorporated in 1999 and is dedicated to matching shelter dogs to loving homes in the Rochester area.

“Our main goal is to assist any overwhelmed shelter that requests help to provide a shelter dog a second chance,” she says. “Not all breeds are good for all people and we hand-select the dogs coming from the shelter that are deserving of a chance to be adopted. It is not the fault of the dog that he finds himself in the shelter, but the inexperience and non-commitment of his first owner.”

The rescue group is named for Duffy - a beloved dog Lori adopted in the 1990s when she would walk through animal control and buy dogs scheduled to be put to sleep.

“My love for a throw-away dog provided me with the reason to keep helping the animals,” Lori states on the group’s website, www.dufffysfriends.com.

She notes that Duffy’s Friends interview prospective adoptive families and match the dog to the family based on criteria concerning (the) dog’s energy level, temperament, training ability, and other characteristics.

“We have placed over 500 dogs in five years and the (number of) dogs returned to our program is less than one percent,” Mufford says.

Laurie LoMonaco, who has been with Duffy’s friends for about seven months, commends Mufford for her dedication.

Lori, Pirate and Blondie smile for the camera. Lori travels to Henrietta every Saturday and brings dogs to the Petco store for adoption. (Check out Petfinder.com). She has brought over 500 dogs from North and South Carolina in the past five years and has been working with shelters for 20 years. There are contacts in the shelter areas in those states that pull dogs for Duffy's Friends and house them until they have transport to Rochester. Spurr Subaru in Brockport provides help to the program.“Lori has a heart like no other when it comes to any animal,” she says. “People who are not involved in rescue do not understand that it is a full-time job in itself. Lori oversees everything. You really need to have compassion to be involved in rescue of any capacity. Lori always puts the welfare of each dog first to ensure each dog gets the best possible home. Lori once told me one of the things that makes her the happiest is the families who come back and adopt a second dog from Duffy’s Friends. We have all established friendships that will last a lifetime.”

Dave and Monica Salin of Greece adopted Bennie from Duffy’s in August 2010 and Genny in March 2012.

“My husband and I have been so lucky to have found Duffy’s Friends,” Monica says. “We have two wonderful rescues: Bennie and Genny. The people who volunteer their time and money into saving animals from high kill shelters are unsung heroes. It takes a lot of work and money and not all animals can be saved, but the volunteers leave no stone unturned in giving these pets a second chance to live full happy lives and move into homes like ours where love awaits them and in return we receive love that only a pet can give a human.”

Benita Greenfield volunteers with Duffy’s Friends and fosters, coordinates foster homes and coordinates rescue transportation from North Carolina.

Volunteering with Duffy’s Friends has been an especially rewarding experience, she says. “By fostering dogs and placing them in good homes, I get to save the lives of great dogs and I learn about many different dogs and enjoy their personalities. Saving the lives of these adoptable animals will remain necessary until we can educate more people on the need to spay and neuter their pets. I also am fostering two wonderful cats who lost their “mom” to cancer a few months ago. Adoptable cats are even harder to place than adoptable dogs.”

Anyone who would like to find out detailed criteria required for adopting a dog from Duffy’s Friends (or would like to find out more about volunteering with the group) can visit www.duffysfriends.com. You can also Google “Petfinder Duffy’s Friends” Lori Mufford says.

“This is an internet site that will list every dog and cat that is being offered for adoption in the United States. It is a national registry for every rescue group and one of the best ways to find an animal needing a new home,” she says.

Mufford adds that during their adoption interview process, Duffy’s Friends selects families that are willing to attend basic obedience classes, crate train and other tools that are necessary to ensure a successful adoption.

7/8/12


Stories from the Battlefield: A panel of Civil War re-enactors tell tales at GCC

Anyone who has ever wanted to volunteer as a Civil Ware re-enactor or is fascinated by re-enactments and encampments is invited to attend a lecture Tuesday, July 10 at 7 p.m. at GCC Batavia Campus - T102, One College Road, Batavia.

As communities across the United States continue to mark the 150th anniversary of the Civil War, including Genesee Community College’s ongoing series of special events, re-enactment events have never been so popular, nor has the call for re-enactors been so great. For under-manned companies, this phenomenon offers great recruitment opportunities for young as well as older citizens. Three dedicated re-enactment veterans will discuss the challenges and rewards of this hobby. Tom Bowers, Simon Taylor and Terri Parker share more than 50-years of combined experiences with encampments, and they will discuss the opportunities available to volunteers.

The panel discussion will be moderated by GCC History instructor Derek Maxfield. Another Civil War Lecture is planned at GCC on August 7. (Details to be announced)

7/8/12


Rowing club forming - youth invited to grab a paddle

by William Matthias

John Bernfield and others escort the McQuaid and Canisius crews through Spencerport on June 15. The crews were enroute 340 miles on the Erie Canal rowing from Buffalo to Albany to raise money for Juvenile Diabetes Research. Provided photoSpencerport resident and champion rower John Bernfield says the part of the Erie Canal that passes through Rochester’s west side is an untapped resource for self-propelled water sports and he is taking advantage of that fact.

The 65-year-old head coach at the Genesee Waterways Center has witnessed the tremendous growth in popularity of rowing on the east side, while interest in rowing on the west side has remained relatively static. Bernfield views the limited rowing opportunities on the west side as a problem with a simple solution.

“It’s difficult for high-school-aged kids on the west side to pursue competitive rowing,” said Bernfield, who has coached three rowing crews on the local level, as well as the Purdue University women’s varsity crew. “Realizing what an ideal venue the Spencerport area is for rowing and learning of Ogden’s plan for developing Heritage Trail triggered the idea of creating a rowing program for these kids,” he said.

With the help of a few fellow residents, Bernfield has kick-started the Spencerport Rowing Club (SRC). The crew is seeking athletes to join the team with hopes of beginning practice in the fall and the possibility of competing in novice events at local regattas next spring.

Given the evolution of rowing on the east side – with the development of crews in Pittsford, Fairport, Brighton and the city ­– Bernfield foresees west side rowing gaining momentum.

A veteran rowing coach hopes area athletes will share his interest in the sport of rowing. He says The Erie Canal on the west side of the city of Rochester makes an ideal course. Provided photo“The programs on the east side continue to take on new members and they cannot get much bigger because they don’t have the space, the facilities or the waterways to do it,” Bernfield said. “And who knows, maybe there’s a kid on the west side who could take rowing as far as Henrik Rummel has.”

Rummel is a 2005 Pittsford Mendon graduate who was recently selected to compete for the 2012 U.S. Olympic rowing team.

“That sends a message to the community that young folks in the area can rise to that level of rowing, to become an Olympian,” said Spencerport Deputy Mayor Ted Rauber, who is also president of the Spencerport Depot and Canal Museum. “The SRC will provide an opportunity for youth to become more proactive in the community and to excel in an area outside of traditional-type sports.”

Rauber, who hopes to use the museum as a “launch site” for the SRC, said the Erie Canal through the suburbs west of the City of Rochester is the ideal place to learn and practice rowing because of limited locks and chatter (wave action). Bernfield agreed, stating that the Genesee River can become “quite treacherous,” and clubs rowing east on the canal are burdened by numerous locks and other divides.

West side rowers have the advantage of the “60-mile-level,” the longest continuous stretch of the 363-mile Erie Canal, between Lock 34 in Lockport and Lock 33 in Henrietta, according to Tom Grasso, president of the Canal Society of New York State.

The SRC is currently exploring ideas on how to generate interest in the club. Rauber said he will “administer” the effort from the “government’s end” and will help educate villagers about what Bernfield is trying to accomplish. Additionally, life-long Spencerport resident Helen Moore has joined in the effort to help spread the word, produce new ideas and make connections within the community to help bring the SRC to fruition.

“This is mostly for the kids,” Moore said. “It’s another outlet to keep them off the streets. But it could also be a great boom for the community, which is great because the state is really pushing tourism along the canal. This will hopefully add another piece to the overall picture of the economy.”

The SRC will be on hand with boat displays at the Spencerport Depot and Canal Museum during Spencerport Canal Days on July 28 and 29 to answer any questions. The group also plans to hold an interest meeting in the weeks following the celebration, Bernfield said. The SRC is open to all Monroe County resident boys and girls of high-school age who are able to tread water.

Bernfield said he encourages eligible residents to join the club because although rowing is a “difficult” sport, it helps youngsters develop a high-level of fitness, a number of friendships and a whole lot of memories.

“You can do it for a lifetime and there’s very low risk of injury,” Bernfield said. “But, most importantly, it’s fun. I wouldn’t have done it for 46 years if I didn’t enjoy it.”

Those interested in joining the crew or obtaining additional information should email the club at spencerportrowing@gmail.com.

7/8/12


Community Memorial Park dedication

Nancy Steedman, Mayor of the Village of Churchville, recognizes and thanks all those in the community who helped in the construction of the Community Memorial Park. Photograph by David Knox.The Village of Churchville and Town of Riga’s 2012 Concert Series was opened on June 27 with Churchville Mayor Nancy Steedman’s, dedication of the Churchville-Riga Community Memorial Park located alongside the Churchville Gazebo. The dedication was jointly sponsored by the Village of Churchville, Town of Riga, and the Churchville Lions Club.

After the Community Memorial Park dedication the Village of Churchville and Town of Riga's 2012 Concert Series began with the Don Newcomb Band. Photograph by David Knox.The park features a path paved with memorail bricks as well as rock wall benches where people can sit to view the memorial bricks as well as enjoy music during the Concert Series.

In her dedication, Mayor Nancy Steedman recognized and thanked all those in the community who helped in the construction of the Community Memorial Park. She also spoke of the park’s history that was first thought of in 2008 when John Rabideau of the Churchville Lions Club came up with the idea. In 2009, plans were finalized for two phases of the project and a cost proposal to build Phase 1. In the summer of 2010, the rock wall was completed by volunteers led by Dave Becker of Churchville, Lions Club member Jim Ehrmentraut, Councilman Brad Obrocta and many others. Also in 2010, Boy Scout Tyler Swetman from Churchville Troop 133 completed the bricked area for his Eagle Scout project under the guidance of Scoutmaster Ray Ehrmentraut and Scout Leader Ron Rugelis.

Nancy Steedman (center), Mayor of the Village of Churchville, along with people from the Churchville Lions Club, Churchville's Boy Scout Troop 133, Village of Churchville, Town of Riga, Churchville Chamber of Commerce, Riga Bicentennial Committee, and Waste Management who helped in the construction of the Community Memorial Park. Photograph by David Knox.The benches along the rock wall were installed in 2011 and donated by the Churchville Chamber of Commerce, Town of Riga, Village of Churchville, the Riga Bicentennial Committee, and Waste Management. Finally, in 2012 phase one was completed with more than 140 memorial bricks installed. The bricks, sold through the Churchville Lions Club, along with a stone sign were engraved by JBR GrafX of Churchville. The dedication ended with comments from John Rabideau who spoke of the significance of the project.

Memorial Bricks are continuing to be sold through the Churchville Lions Club and an order form can be found at www.churchville.net/images/pdf/bricks.pdf or the Town of Riga website.

The heart of the Churchville-Riga Community Memorial Park is a memorial brick walk with names to honor or in the memory of loved ones from the community surrounded by a rock wall and donated benches for people to sit and view the memorial bricks and enjoy music during the Concert Series. Photograph by David Knox. Phase II of the project will be completed in the future and will include a quiet area for reflection along Black Creek.

After the dedication, people from the community attending the dedication were able to walk along the brick walk to find people memorialized using a brick locator handout and listen to the Concert Series music by the Don Newcomb Band.

The 2012 Concert Series continues from July 11 through August 1 and starts at 6:30 p.m. on Wednesdays at the Gazebo.

7/8/12


The Brockport Lions Club held its annual dinner to induct new officers and members at Salmon Creek Country Club on June 20.

Pictured are newest member Nick Unger, new Brockport Lions President Chuck Switzer, Lion Tom Kaznowski (a Lion for 56 years), Lion Frank Sacheli (57 years), Lion Wayne Moore (59 years), and new member Norm Fluet.

The Club celebrated it’s 60th Anniversary last year.

For more information on the Brockport Lions Club or to become a member, contact Greg Lund at lunddargreg@aol.com or call 964-2774.

Provided photo by Jack Bowser

7/8/12


Pvt. Urbine J. CalladineUrb BennettKendall resident Urb Bennett holds a plaque that belonged to his grandfather that was passed down to his mother and has been in his possession for over 35 years. He has decided to donate it to the Marine Corps Museum in Quantico, Virginia.

His grandfather, Pvt. Urbine J. Calladine, served in the North Bombing Group of the 1st Marine Corps Aviation Force during WWI. The plaque has the names of the Marines in Squadron D and pictures taken around LeFene Field in France and is dated October 5, 1918.

Urb is a former Orleans County Sheriff who retired after 20 years of service. He also served in the Marine Corps, 1966 through 1969, as a sergeant and crew chief on Amtracks and did a tour in the Vietnam conflict. He is also a member of the Marine Corps League based in Holley and is the paymaster of the Holley Hellhounds.

Photograph by Walter Horylev

7/8/12


Madeline’s car: The afterglow

Part Four

by Joe Reinschmidt

Bill watches as Madeline checks under the hood, with Lynne looking on.There’s probably never a story written that doesn’t lead to other stories and interesting circumstances, coincidences or connections.

The Rowley Chevrolet dealership (located in Spencerport village where The Feltner Group is now located) was purchased by Dave Durfee and became Durfee Chevrolet on December 28, 1960. The business grew and in the mid 1960s moved to Parma Corners, specifically at 5035 West Ridge Road. The initial building there was soon expanded to accommodate growth. In 1986, Dave sold the business to his son, Pete, who after a number of years sold it to Dean Doan. It still operates today under the Doan name but is owned by another entity/individual. As we speak progress is underway on another major expansion. Bill’s father, Bob Bennett, who had worked at Rowley’s as a mechanic part time, later worked in sales at Durfee’s on Ridge Road.

As was noted in earlier writing about this car restoration project, both Bill and his wife, Lynne, were born in 1955, the year Madeline bought the car. We subsequently learned that Madeline had retired years ago after 39 years as a secretary at Kodak. Lynne retired last year also after 39 years of service at Kodak. Madeline’s secretarial skills carried over to her personal life evidenced by the fact that she saved not only the car’s bill of sale but also all 24 payment stubs for the two year financing she had obtained.

Bill, at the age of 25, was a passenger in a car that crashed. He was very seriously injured and if he lived his prognosis wasn’t good. His mother, Joan, rode with me when we went to Madeline’s residence. In response to my question about the accident she described the devastating, helpless feeling a mother experiences in such a situation. While Bill’s body may have been broken, his will to live was alive and after many months/years of care he substantially recovered, though left with some permanent physical limitations. His love for cars remained and resulted in the restoration of a number of vehicles, most recently the 1955 Chevy. You may be glad to know that Bill isn’t done yet, as he just bought a 1957 Chevy Bel Air two door hardtop to work on, but not to the extent the ‘55 required.

Bill and Lynne are having a home built in Florida, which they will move to this fall. They will be staying at their summer camp until then and hope to spend three months every summer there. The ‘55 Chevy is also making the trip to Florida in a car trailer and will be entered into the competition at a National Auto show in Orlando in February. Bill has promised to let us know if, or we should say when, it wins awards.

When I first met Bill and saw the car, he mentioned how nice it would be to have a Rowley license plate frame for it. My parents purchased several cars from Rowley’s and, of course, I had saved a plate frame that has hung on our garage wall for 50 years or more. I was glad to give it to Bill who did his restoration magic on it. The folks who see it in Florida will know exactly where the car came from. I don’t know if you classify that as having the last word or bringing up the rear. Either way it is a pleasure to have a small part in it.

 

One story often leads to another, notes freelance writer Joe Reinschmidt. This Rowley license plate frame was one his family had on a Chevy they had purchased from the Spencerport dealership.

7/8/12



SPORTS NEWS - WEEK OF JULY 8, 2012

AREA

Ryan Chalmers qualifies for Team USA 2012

Ryan ChalmersRyan Chalmers clinched a spot on Team USA, when he placed third in the 400, 800, 1500, and 5000 at the US Paralympic Trials in Indianapolis last weekend. Chalmers, a well-established wheelchair athlete with several international competitions under his belt, also qualified for the marathon event. He will now begin training with Team USA for the 2012 Paralympics in London this August.

Chalmers has been competing in wheelchair sports since the age of 8. A 2007 graduate of Churchville-Chili, Chalmers has trained for years with the Rochester Rookies Wheelchair and Ambulatory Sports Program and has won numerous awards in wheelchair basketball and track & field events. His athletic career has included Junior World competitions in Australia, South Africa, Ireland, and the US, as well as the 2011 World Games in Christchurch, New Zealand.

Chalmers recently graduated from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, where he attended on a sports scholarship and won first place with his team in the National Intercollegiate Wheelchair Basketball Tournament in 2010. Today, Chalmers serves as a mentor for other disabled athletes. He currently works with Stay Focused, a not-for-profit that uses SCUBA diving as a medium to empower disabled youth and teach leadership skills. Through Stay Focused, Chalmers has obtained Rescue Diver Certification, and he is currently pursuing Dive Master Certification.

Following the Paralympics, Chalmers will continue to focus on bringing awareness to the abilities of disabled athletes and is working on a significant initiative to give back to the disabled sports community.

7/8/12


BROCKPORT 

Lehman signs with LIU Post 

Brockport High School graduate Danielle Lehman recently signed for an athletic and academic Scholarship to Long Island University Post, a Division II school, where she will major in biology and continue her soccer career.

Lehman was a three time varsity letter winner in soccer and one in basketball. She was a Monroe County 1st team selection in her sophomore and senior seasons, All Greater Rochester in her sophomore and senior season, and third team All-State her senior year. Lehman came out strong her senior year, after missing her junior season recovering from knee surgery. She was one of the captains who led Brockport to the Class AA Sectional Championship and a trip to the final four.

“A player like Danielle is a coach’s dream,” said soccer coach Kristy Sherman. “She not only is an extremely talented young woman but I have never coached a player with as much passion and drive as Danielle. She has been an amazing player for the past four years and a great role model for younger athletes in our program.”

Pictured in front are: Danielle Lehman and her parents, Mark and Theresa. In back is her brother Jacob, Coach Kristy Sherman and Assistant Coach Bob Jones.

Provided photo

7/8/12

 

 

 

Steves to play lacrosse at Houghton college 

Brockport High School graduate David Steves will soon head to Houghton College, a Division III school, where he will play lacrosse. Steves played varsity lacrosse for two years at Brockport. He was a scholar athlete and team captain.

Athletic Director Chris Bourne is happy he will continue his lacrosse career at the college level. “David was a great role model in our athletic program,” said Bourne. “He always conducted himself in the highest integrity. His leadership will be missed.”

Steves will major in political science with a concentration in international relations.

He is pictured with his parents Janet and Doug and former coach Jonathan VanHuben (in back, left).

Provided photo

7/8/12

 

 

 

Local racer earns spot at Motocross National Championship

Ryan Mattison, a 16-year-old Brockport student, has qualified for the Amateur National Motorcross Championships. He's been competing in the sport since he was eight. Provided photo Brockport’s Ryan Mattison just made his dream come true. The 16-year-old dirt bike racer has qualified for the largest amateur motocross race in the world, the 31st Annual Red Bull AMA Amateur National Motocross Championships at Loretta Lynn’s Ranch. Mattison took on over 20,000 hopefuls from across America to earn one of just 1,386 qualifying positions, with only 42 of those spots available in his class.

“The Amateur Nationals at Loretta Lynn’s is the event every motocross racer in the country wants to compete in,” said Event Director Tim Cotter. “A win at the Amateur Nationals gives a rider instant national notoriety and can serve as a springboard to a lucrative professional motocross career.” Most of America’s top professional motocrossers, including James Stewart, Ricky Carmichael, Travis Pastrana and Jeremy McGrath, have won AMA Amateur National Championships at Loretta Lynn’s.

Mattison, who attends Brockport High School, is also on the varsity wrestling team and won sectionals in his division as a sophomore this year. He has raced since he was eight years old along with his brother, Michael. He has won many races and championships over the years and competes nearly every weekend, primarily on WNYRacing tracks, including Area 51 Motocross in Batavia where he also spends time practicing, and has recently trained with local experts Mike Metz and Myles Caradori.

Mattison will make the trip to Tennessee in August along with his father, Wayne, mother, Colleen, sister, Erin and brother, Michael. He is racing in the 450 C class on his Kawasaki KX450F, and will be running National top 100 number 57, which is a shortened version of his local number 507.

Mattison is just one of the over 20,000 who spent the last four months qualifying for the event. The top finishers in area and regional qualifiers earn a birth into the National Championship race at Loretta Lynn’s. Racers may enter a wide variety of classes, from minicycle classes for children as young as four, all the way up to a senior division for riders over 50. There are also classes for women and classes for both stock and modified bikes.

Provided information

7/8/12


 

SCHOOL DISTRICT NEWS - WEEK OF JULY 8, 2012

AREA

Students earn GEDs

Maria Harris (left), a graduate of the Monroe 2-Orleans BOCES GED Program, with one of her instructors Mary Lynne Soto. Fifty-eight graduates received their diplomas in a ceremony celebrating adult literacy. Provided photoFifty-eight graduates walked across the stage at the BOCES 2 Educational Services Center to receive their General Education Diplomas (GED). Each graduate had taken his or her own special journey to get to that proud moment. Several students shared their stories.

“I was living in the shadow of who I could be,” said Larry Moss, whose instructor was Raymond Marks. “Now that I have my diploma, I realize that education is the one thing that no one can take from you.”

Kathleen Schneider, retired after 20 years of teaching literacy, was the guest speaker. She gave the audience a glimpse inside a GED classroom where classmates and instructors work together toward a common goal. “Every class is like a family – a family of different races, ages, and religions – and we all help each other,” she said.

The BOCES 2 Center for Workforce Development offers GED Preparation and English as a Second Language programs. Individuals have the option of enrolling in a traditional class or a home study program. All classes are taught by NYS certified teachers who work with students on an individualized education and employment plan that includes an assessment of current academic skills and career interests.

Traditional classes are held at the Center for Workforce Development, Rochester Tech Park, 160 Wallace Way, Building 9. Day and evening classes are available for GED preparation. Home study programs are offered at multiple satellite locations throughout Monroe and Orleans counties. For information, call 349-9100.

Provided information

7/8/12


BROCKPORT

BCSD pursues Capital Project

The Brockport Central School District has announced plans to present a capital project to voters this fall.

After review of the 2010 Building Condition Survey, the Capital Project/Space Utilization Committee presented to the Board of Education on May 15 to recommend moving forward with a capital project. Assistant Superintendent for Business Darrin Winkley answered additional questions during the June 5 Board meeting. The district will bring a capital project resolution to the voters in September 2012, according to a press release from district representatives.

The committee comprised of staff and community members was formed in January by the Board of Education as part of Board Goal 4: Enhance Fiscal Accountability. The project would primarily address health, safety and instructional improvements to buildings, parking lots and fields. The majority of the work proposed in this bond is designed to address maintenance concerns and improve delivery of the educational program.

The last capital project for Brockport school buildings was approved in 2007.

“This project will take advantage of high NYS building aid formulas (more than 90%) and utilize remaining EXCEL funding available for districts throughout New York State, which will minimize the local impact,” said Winkley.

To view the committee’s presentation to the Board of Education and learn more about the project, visit www.bcs1.org/capitalprojec.

Provided information

7/8/12

 

 

 

Annually The Stetson Club and Brockport Police Chief Dan Varrenti present the Cliffton Rife II high school scholarship award.

This year’s winner is Joshua Carlson. Joshua has been a member ofthe Brockport Police Explorer Post for the past five years. He is the son of Don (Rochester Police Department) and Susan (a librarian at the Seymour and Hamlin Library) Carlson.

Joshua will be attending Finger Lakes Community College in the fall studying Environmental Conservation and Criminal Justice.

Shown in photo (left to right) Adam Mesiti, Duke and Billie Rife (parents of the late Cliffton Rife II) Joshua Carlson, Police Chief Dan Varrenti, Stetson Club member Brian Winant.

Provided photo

7/8/12


CHURCHVILLE

Input sought from C-C parents of students in grades 5-12

Churchville-Chili’s Board of Education is seeking input from parents of students in grades 5-12 regarding a specific revision proposal to the District Code of Conduct.

One of the proposals in front of the board for the 2012-13 school year could allow the use of cell phones by students in grades 5-12 for instructional purposes. After data was reviewed from a preliminary survey of students, parents and staff, the board is now in search of additional input specifically from parents of middle and high school students.

An online survey has been created and will be open to parents until July 9 in order to allow for input for the Public Hearing portion of the July 10 meeting, which begins at 6:45 p.m. To complete the survey, visit www.cccsd.org/parentsurvey.

The decision on this proposal in the District Code of Conduct is scheduled to occur during the board’s regular meeting on July 10 in the Board of Education Conference Room.

7/8/12


HOLLEY 

Holley sixth grader recognized for academic excellence

Holley sixth grader Jesse Beach received the Andrew DeCarlo Achievement Award for having the highest grade point average in his class. Provided photoHolley student Jesse Beach was presented with the Andrew DeCarlo Achievement Award at the annual Sixth-Grade Moving Up Day Awards Assembly. Jesse, the son of David and Sue Beach, was selected for the award because he has the highest grade point average in his class - 98.06 percent based on the core subjects of English language arts, math, science, and social studies.

The assembly also included the presentation of other academic, music, physical fitness, perfect attendance, and volunteer awards, as well as performances by the elementary chorus and concert band. After the assembly, students and their families celebrated with brunch then walked over to their new school - Holley Middle School/High School.

Provided information

7/8/12

 

 

 

 

Holley celebrates 63rd annual commencement

Andrew Heath delivers the valedictory speech at Holley High School's 63rd Annual Commencement, 68 years after his grandfather, Robert Heath, spoke as Holley's valedictorian. Provided photo“We stand at the meeting between a happy past and an unknown future having not reached the end but the commencement of our lives. What those lives become depends largely on the foundations we have been building in our high school careers.” That opening paragraph was written 68 years ago and was first read by Robert Heath, valedictorian of the Holley High School graduating class of 1944. It was shared by his grandson, Andrew Heath, valedictorian of Holley’s Class of 2012 at the 63rd Annual Commencement on June 23. Andrew’s brother, Mark Heath, was valedictorian two years ago and is now a student at Harvard University.

Andrew’s speech, he advised his classmates to “Be proud of where you come from – once a Holley Hawk, always a Holley Hawk.”

Class President and Salutatorian Timothy Gallets welcomed graduates, families, board members, administrators and staff. “Do what makes you happy – that will make life great for you,” he told his fellow graduates.

Class Vice President Patrick Stetzel presented several class gifts - a brick for the memorial walkway that will be built in front of the school to honor students, staff and community members; $375 to the school band, which has grown substantially over the past year; $375 to the Yearbook Club; a $375 gift certificate for the Brook House Restaurant to the cafeteria staff, and six $75 awards to graduates in memory of Gary Zastrow, teacher’s aide. The recipients are: Brianna Blackburn, Brianna Goodwin, Cheyenne Hovey, Amber Kenyon, Alyssa Lasch, and Nicole Morales.

This year’s guest speaker was Michael Crissman, Holley social studies teacher for the past 16 years. He advised graduates to create goals that are attainable – “small goals will help you get to bigger goals.” He also told the class to become leaders and to make sure our society does not stand still, and to create a sense of community wherever they go. “Go and do great things. We expect nothing less,” Crissman said.

Before receiving their diplomas, graduates were presented with 57 awards and eight scholarships. “The Holley Class of 2012 earned 935 college credit hours, $15,000 in local and community scholarships, and are eligible for up to $300,000 in specific college scholarships – they should be as proud of themselves as we are of them,” said Principal Susan Cory.

Provided information

7/8/12


 

OBITUARIES - WEEK OF JULY 8, 2012

AREA

•Ryan, Eunice Bennett, 90, of Troy/Cooksboro, New York died June 27, 2012. Born in Troy, she was the daughter of the late Harry and Mary Barnhart Bennett and the wife of the late Donald Wilcox and the late Norman Vandercook Ryan. Eunice was a graduate of Lansingburgh High School class of 1938. She grew up in the Methodist faith. She had been employed by the NYS Police, Rensselaer Valve Co., and the Health Services of Rensselaer Area. Eunice was a former member of the Pittstown Historical Society and the Pittstown Senior Citizens Association. Survivors include four children, Donald Wilcox of Pittstown, Keith (Francine Patella) Ryan of Spencerport, Gretchen Ryan of Troy, and Dale (Laura) Ryan of Cooksboro; a stepson, Charles L. Ryan of Clifton Park; six grandchildren, Jackie Wilcox, Sam (Vickie) Wilcox, Aaron and Kiri Patella Ryan, and Chris and Brad Ryan; three great grandsons, Brock, Whelen and Wade Wilcox; and several nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by her siblings, Orson, Orvin, Orville and B. Alden Bennett and Olive Nadeau. Services and interment were private with Reverend Gaylord Campbell officiating. Donations in Eunice’s memory may be made to the Alzheimers Association of NENY, Pine West Plaza, Bldg. 4, Suite 405, Washington Ave., Ext., Albany, NY 12205.

 

BROCKPORT

•McDonough, Michael C., June 27, 2012, at age 50 suddenly in a motorcycle accident. Survived by his wife, Joyce Ambrose; daughters, Michelle and Anna McDonough; his parents, Carl and Renate; sister, Karin (Tony) Carnevale; grandmother, Mary Bishop; two nephews, Christopher and Daniel Carnevale; and aunt, Lynne DeMeco; sister-in-law, Karen Ambrose.

A Funeral Service was held July 1 at the Leo M. Bean and Sons Funeral Home.

 

CHILI

•Greenfield, Elizabeth J., June 29, 2012 age 93. Predeceased by her husband Frederick. Survived by her daughter, Linda (Robert) Munger. Granddaughter, Christina (James) Miroff. Great grandchildren, Michael and Elizabeth Miroff. Brother, James (Patricia) Kasarjian. Elizabeth was a hostess at Chili Doll Hospital, Victorian Doll Museums. An active member of Chili Beautification and a contributing writer to Suburban News and Gates Chili News.

A Memorial Service was held Sunday, July 8 at the Episcopal Church Home. Contributions can be made to the home in her memory.

 

•Lootens, Gerald N., June 28, 2012. Predeceased by his first wife of 44 years, Muriel; parents Victor and Ruth, and brothers Victor and John. Survived by his bride Patricia; his children, Kathleen Miller-Short, Terri (Jeff) Schumacher, Ann (Dan) Kraus, Steven (Robin) and Christine (Brett) MacWilliams; step-children John (Julie) Schultheis, Michael (Linda) Schultheis, Paula (Joe) Hellaby, Scott (Ella) Schultheis and Sandy (Bryan) Bean; grandchildren Kevin Miller, Bryan Short, Dana and Amy Schumacher, Charlie, Victor and Marin Kraus, Alec Lootens, Landon, Trevor, and Brady MacWilliams; step-grandchildren Allison and Michael Schultheis, Joseph and Mark (Christina) Hellaby, James, Catherine, and Elizabeth Schultheis, Thomas and Katelyn Bean, and loving neighbors.

A Funeral Mass was said July 3 at Holy Ghost Church. Interment Holy Sepulchre Cemetery. Memorials can be made to a charity of one’s choice in his memory.

 

CLARKSON

•Boehl, Bruce N., 76, died June 1, 2012, at home in Florida following a brief illness. He lived in Clarkson, most of his life with his family. He was a U.S. Navy veteran, and a member of the Benevolent and Protective Order of the Elks. He retired from The College at Brockport as a facilities and maintenance worker. He enjoyed train collecting and gardening. Predeceased by his parents, Nelson S. and Ethel “Honey” M. Boehl and sister, Bernadette Nancy (George) Knab. He is survived by his loving wife, Grace R. Boehl; daughters: Marguerite Bennett of Brandon, Florida, Debra (Michael) Lester of Hamlin; son Bruce S. Boehl of Brandon, Florida; his grandchildren: Clinton, Cody, and Carley Lester, Erin and Veronica Bennett; as well as several nieces and nephews.

A Memorial Service was held June 16 in Valrico, Florida at Holy Innocence Episcopal Church.

 

CHURCHVILLE

•Arazy, Ann L. (Lazoration), July 1, 2012. Predeceased by her husband, Chester F. Arazy. Survived by her son, Chester J. Arazy of Voorhees, New Jersey; sisters, Esther Kissling of Pennsylvania, Mary Kearns of New Jersey; numerous nieces and nephews.

A Funeral Mass was celebrated July 5 at St. Vincent DePaul Church, Churchville. Interment in St. Vincent DePaul Cemetery. Contributions can be made to the Crest Manor N.H. in her memory.

 

HAMLIN

•Papoi, Marcia, June 28, 2012, age 60. She is predeceased by her parents, Gilbert Henderson and Pauline LeBeau. She is survived by daughter, LynMarie (Andrew) Liese; a brother, Lawrence (Sandi) Henderson; grandchildren, Alexandra Miller, Donald Miller III and Ålicia Liese; a nephew, Sean Henderson.

A Funeral Service was held July 6 at the Thomas E. Burger Funeral Home. Donations can be made to Hildebrandt Hospice, 2652 Ridgeway Avenue, Rochester.

 

•Strassner, Charlene R., July 2, 2012, age 66. Predeceased by her husband, James, 1999. Survived by her children, Kim (Steve) Stetson, James (Kim) Strassner, Shannon (Michael) Feis; “special daughter,” Wendy Corsetti; grandchildren, Bree, Bret and Brooke Stetson, Hobie, Halie and Makayla Strassner, Kaiden and Kaitlyn Feis; her brother, Charles (Sherry) Raleigh; sisters-in-law, Linda Patten and Delores (Orris) Mosher; many nieces, nephews and dear friends.

A Memorial Service was held July 7 at St. John Lutheran Church, Hamlin. Memorials can be made to her church in her memory.

 

HilTON

•Berglund, Elmer L., June 25, 2012, of Hudson, Florida. Predeceased by wives Evelyn (Arnold) Berglund and Barbara (Brown) Berglund, and survived by his life partner of twenty years, Mary Ann Richardson. Also survived by children Sandra (Robert) Linberg, Shirley (David) Davis, Susette (Dennis) Langston, grandchildren Faith (Michael) Nichols, Sylvia Linberg, Julie Farr and Joyce (Cody) Christensen, 14 great-grandchildren and 10 great-great-grandchildren. After a long fulfilling career as a field machinist with Eastman Kodak Company. He spent more years in retirement than he had worked, enjoying such interests as white water rafting, cross country skiing, hiking with the Genesee Valley Hiking Club, building houses with Habitats for Humanity, working at a soup kitchen and participating in the Florida Senior Olympics Race walking.

Memorials can be donated to a charity of one’s choice in his memory.

 

•Bruning, Brian P. Jr. Suddenly July 1, 2012. Brian P. Bruning Jr., age 29. He is survived by his parents, Brian Sr. and Susan (Fleming) Bruning; his brothers, Stephen Bruning and Michael (Rose) Rowella; his sister, Kristina (Jeremy) Rowella-Neal; grandmother, Marcia Karmedar; nieces and nephew, Lliam and Leah Rowella and Lyla Neal; aunts, uncles, cousins and many friends. Predeceased by his grandparents, Stefan Karmedar, Henry and Carol Bruning.

A Funeral Mass was said July 7 at St. Lawrence Church. Interment, Parma Union Cemetery. Memorials can be made to a charity of one’s choice in his memory.

 

HOLLEY

•Maid, Dorothy E., Suddenly Thursday, June 28, 2012 at the age of 72. Predeceased by her son Robert Maid Jr. and her mother, Helen (Loren) Alexander. She is survived by her beloved husband of 54 years Robert G. “Bob”

Maid, sons Dennis, James (Gail), Donald Maid, daughter AnnMarie (Tom) Stenglein, daughter-in-law Vicki Maid, many grandchildren and six great grandchildren.

A Memorial Service was held July 8 at the First Presbyterian Church of Holley, Holley. A private interment will be held in Byron Cemetery. Contributions can be made to the First Presbyterian Church of Holley in her memory.

 

OGDEN

•Pettit, Drake Ross, born June 1, 2008, passed away on June 29, 2012. Beloved son of Brian and Jaime (Erskine) Pettit and brother of Trevor, Delaney and Tieman Petit. Predeceased by his great grandparents, Nancy DiNitto, Esther Kellogg, Bayard and Cornelia Erskine. He is also survived by his maternal grandmother, Anne Marie DiNitto-Erskine “Nana,” and grandfather, Bayard (Kathy) Erskine; paternal grandmother Lynda Pettit and grandfather Larry Pettit; Haverly Erskine “Aunt Lee Lee,” Aunt Lisa Pettit-Ferri; great grandfather, Frank DiNitto “Poppy” great uncle, Frank DiNitto “Papa Uncle Frank”; Godparents, Julie Ann Wilson and Nathan Burnham; as well as many dear aunts, uncles, cousins and friends.

A Funeral Mass was said July 3 at St. Lawrence Church in Greece. Private interment at Holy Sepulchre Cemetery. Contributions can be made to a children’s charity of one’s choice in his memory.

 

SPENCERPORT

•Maier, Henry J., June 28, 2012. He is predeceased by his parents, Raymond J. and Edna B. Maier; his brother and sisters, Dorothy, John and Mary. He is survived by his brothers and sisters, Virginia, Charles (Carol), Margaret (Earl), Francis (Joanne), Theresa, Donald and Laurie; several nieces and nephews.

A Funeral Mass was said July 2 at St. John the Evangelist Church, Spencerport. Contributions may be made to St. Jude Children’s Hospital in his memory.



 

ARCHIVES - WEEK OF JULY 1, 2012

LOCAL NEWS - WEEK OF JULY 1, 2012

Final Monroe County radio tower installed in Hilton

 

 

Hilton’s Mike McHenry, Superintendent of Public Works, and Mike Lissow, Code Enforcement Officer and Building Inspector, observe the completion of the installation of a new radio tower and supporting building just north of the water tower.

The radio equipment building is hoisted into position to be placed on the pre-installed foundation. Photographs by Walter Horylev.According to Tom Ballatta, Project Engineer, Harris RF, the radio tower is 180 feet high and went up in three sections, taking about two and one-half hours to erect. The support building will house radio equipment. It will be partially operational by January 1, 2013 and usable by the Water Authority, Water Equipment and public works. Eventually it will be used by fire, police and ambulance operators, enhancing the communication systems and improving safety. This is the last of the 17 large towers to be installed in Monroe County.

 

 

 

7/1/12


Two way traffic resumes on Lyell Avenue, Spencerport

Lyell Avenue in the Village of Spencerport was scheduled to be re-opened by the end of the week of June 25.

Monroe County DOT officials told Westside News Inc. that pavement markings were almost complete early in the week and that the road should be re-opened to two-way traffic by the end of the week, weather permitting.

Village-style street lights will be installed in August, officials added.

It’s been nearly a year since work on the complete reconstruction of Lyell Avenue began in August of 2011.

In addition to roadwork, the project included new sidewalks, granite curbing and a new storm sewer system.

7/1/12 


Village court would bring revenue, trustee reports

by Kristina Gabalski

Brockport Village Board members received their third report on the feasibility of establishing a village justice court during their regular meeting June 12.

In this report, Trustee Margaret Blackman focused on village courts in Geneseo and Fredonia, two villages which, like Brockport, are hosts to SUNY campuses.

Blackman opened her report by noting that finances are always an important consideration and that the village would not want to create a court if it would lose the $50,000-plus it receives annually from village ordinance and parking fines collected in the Sweden Town court.

“We want to make sure we would not operate at a deficit,” she said.

Blackman explained that she, Trustee Carol Hannan and Police Chief Daniel Varrenti, traveled to both Geneseo and Fredonia to gather information, talk with officials and take photographs.

She said that although more village courts are currently being dissolved across the state than are being formed, a study done in regards to consolidating the village and town courts in Geneseo found there was no need because of how efficiently the village court operates.

Blackman presented figures comparing SUNY enrollment, population density, police department staffing, arrests and fines collected for Brockport, Geneseo and Fredonia.

She explained that in Geneseo, the village and town share a court facility and clerks and that the court, “realizes $120,747 after all expenses (annually).”

The Village of Fredonia also shares a courtroom with the Town of Pomfret as well as judges and clerks. Fredonia realizes $120,839 each year, Blackman said.

The collaboration between Geneseo and Fredonia and their respective towns, “increases efficiency and saves costs,” she said.

If Brockport had its own justice court, it would be able to collect fines from VTL (traffic violations) and penal law arrests, Blackman said.

“In respect to current VTL and penal law arrests and fines, the Brockport Police Department works for the Town of Sweden at no cost to them,” she said.

In conclusion, Blackman said that after expenses, “We can safely say a village court in Brockport would realize more revenue than we currently receive without a court.” Blackman estimated the village could realize $50,000 to $60,000 beyond what it receives annually now for village ordinances and parking fines.

In her final report, Blackman said she would discuss the start-up costs of establishing a village court, the cost of legal services and where court would be held.

7/1/12


Two community servants recognized by village board

by Kristina Gabalski

The village presented Chief Henry with a Certificate of Appreciation in recognition for volunteer service to the Village of Brockport as fire chief for the Brockport Fire Department in 2011-2012.Members of the Brockport Village Board said good-bye to two important community leaders at their regular meeting June 26.

Brockport Fire Department Chief Mike Henry will no longer be taking part in meetings as a village department head because the village will begin contracting with the newly created joint Brockport Fire District July 1. Trustee Scott Hunsinger also took part in his last meeting as a member of the village board. He decided not to seek re-election. Trustee-elect Bill Andrews, who was elected in the June 19 village election, will be sworn-in at the next meeting, July 10.

Andrews, who attended the meeting, told the board that if Trustee Hunsinger had been willing to stay on the board, he would not have run for a seat.

Chief Henry presented the village board, Brockport Department of Public Works and the Brockport Police Department with a plaque thanking them for 100-plus years of support to the Brockport Fire Department.

“It’s been an honor to provide services to the towns and village through good times and bad,” Chief Henry said during his final monthly report. He explained that the creation of the joint fire district means a managerial change, not a functional change, and that he would continue to be available to answer questions.

The village presented Chief Henry with a Certificate of Appreciation in recognition for volunteer service to the Village of Brockport as fire chief for the Brockport Fire Department in 2011-2012.

Trustee Kent Blair told Chief Henry it had been an honor to work with him. “You are a blessing to the Fire Department,” he said, “and have been a professional no matter what.”

Village trustees voted unanimously during the meeting to authorize the mayor to enter into a proposed fire protection agreement with the Brockport Fire District to provide fire protection services from July 1-Dec. 31, 2012. As of Jan. 1, 2013, the Fire District will become an independent taxing entity, village attorney Rob Leni said.

Hunsinger also received praise and thanks for his four years of service to the village board as trustee.

Police Chief Daniel Varrenti said he and Hunsinger had developed a friendship that will continue into the future.

“As one of two liaisons to the Police Department, he learned first-hand what we do. I sincerely thank you,” Varrenti said.

Department of Public Works Superintendent Harry Donahue also thanked Hunsinger, who served as a liaison to his department as well. “We got a lot accomplished,” Donahue said.

Trustee Carol Hannan praised Hunsinger for persevering for four years. “He has a true love for the village and a great interest in the village,” she said.

During his final report, Hunsinger made a final proposal - that the village discuss smoking restrictions in village parks and buildings.

“It’s a project I will not be able to see through to fruition,” Hunsinger said, but added that Trustee Kent Blair would take it up for him.

“What a long and strange trip (it’s) been,” he said, quoting Jerry Garcia.

Trustee Hunsinger said he began four years ago working to look outside the box to make things better and noted he had been able to help preserve and save the village “from those wishing to harm it and do it ill will.”

He said financially, he feels the village has “righted the ship” and is working to “keep it sailing along.”

He lamented that his final meeting did not take place at the Village Hall on State Street, but rather at the Middle School.

“Until you sit in the big red chair (on the meeting room dais), you don’t understand what comes with it,” he said.

Hunsinger thanked many friends, family members, community members and Brockport leaders, including the Brockport Police Department which, “makes Brockport a safer place to live,” he said. He also thanked Chief Varrenti, “whose intelligence and dedication are to be respected and revered.”

“This is not a good-bye,” he concluded, “but a see-you-soon.”

7/1/12


Board members discuss results of June 19 of proposition vote

by Kristina Gabalski

The recent village election in Brockport and the rejection of a proposition by voters to change supervision of the code enforcement officer from the mayor to the chief of police, was still fresh in the minds of several Brockport leaders at the regular meeting of the Village Board June 26.

Trustee Kent Blair, who supported the proposition, said all those who shared his support should be happy because “they didn’t run a smear campaign and mislead the community.” He said the campaign in favor of the referendum was fact-based.

He also took issue with arguments against the referendum that stated the Brockport Police Department would become an army of tax collectors. “Fines are not taxes,” Blair said and added that any increases in fines would be a village board decision, not a decision of the Police Department.

During his report, Police Chief Daniel Varrenti said the referendum was not about taking away power from or increasing the power of public officials, but about improving management of code enforcement.

“I didn’t ask for added responsibilities ... I (also) didn’t refuse them,” he said.

He said advertising against the referendum was “misleading,” and like Trustee Blair, noted that not everyone in the village pays fines, “only those who violate the law,” he said.

Chief Varrenti argued the change in supervision would not have turned Brockport into a police state. He said the change was about management, policies and procedures for unilateral code enforcement.

Final election results had 481 “yes” votes on the referendum to 560 “no.” Five votes were blank and void.

In the race for the two trustee seats in which Trustee Margaret Blackman (571 votes) and Bill Andrews (575 votes) were elected, 412 votes were listed as blank and void.

7/1/12


July 21 designated “Monika Andrews Day”

by Kristina Gabalski

Monika's husband, Bill Andrews, was presented with the proclamation during the June 12 meeting.Saturday, July 21 will be Monika Andrews Day in the Village of Brockport. Village Board members made the formal proclamation during their regular meeting June 12.

Monika Andrews died in the fall of 2011 after battling a brain tumor. She was very active in a number of community organizations. Several special events are planned for the 21st.

The Utica Street playground will be dedicated in Monika’s honor that day as “The Monika Andrews Children’s Park.” Andrews established the handicapped accesible playground for the youth of the greater Brockport community.

Also on July 21, the Brockport Ecumenical Food Shelf will dedicate its main room to Monika in recognition of her leadership as president of the organization which works to reduce hunger by providing food relief to eligible residents in Brockport, Sweden and Clarkson.

Additionally, friends and family members of Monika plan to gather on July 21 to celebrate her life and inter her remains in Brockport’s historic High Street Cemetery.

Monika’s husband, Bill Andrews, was presented with the proclamation during the June 12 meeting.

He thanked the Village Board, saying he is, “immensely gratified by this very generous gesture.

“Nothing can compensate me or this community for her loss,” Andrews said, but noted it is comforting to have her contributions to the community recognized.

“I’m immensely grateful for it,” he said.

The proclamation states that Monika Andrews Day will recognize and commemorate “Monika’s lifetime of compassionate community service in these (Ecumenical Food Shelf, Utica St. playground) and myriad other volunteer activities including CROP, Habitat for Humanity, Meals on Wheels, Lakeside Twigs and hospice nursing.

7/1/12


On June 14, County Executive Maggie Brooks and County Legislator Dick Yolevich attended a Flag Day event at Hilton’s Northwood School in North Greece. Yolevich, a Vietnam War Veteran, recently received five service medals for his time serving in the Republic of Vietnam, that should have been awarded fifty years ago. Brooks presented the medals in front of the students, parents, staff, other elected officials, and many veterans of all wars during the annual Flag Day celebration at the school. The medals included the Republic of Vietnam Gallantry Cross w/palm, the Air Force Outstanding Unit Award, the Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal, the Vietnam Service Medal w/Bronze Star, and the National Defense Service Medal.

Provided photo

7/1/12



FEATURE STORIES - WEEK OF JULY 1, 2012

Welcome, Salva Dut!

Salva poses with the check presenters Sam Coyle, Jordan Miller, Talia Danno and Brittany Ellsworth. The four students are Student Council officers at the Fred W. Hill Elementary School.There was a deafening roar and burst of applause at Brockport’s Oliver Middle School from about 900 students, teachers and interested others as a check for $8,507.67 was presented to Salva Dut, a “Lost Boy refugee” and founder of Water for South Sudan, by Talia Danno, a fifth grader who attends Fred W. Hill Elementary School. Talia was representing many students in the Brockport Central School system, that Library Department and a host of supporters in the community who helped raise money to sponsor a well in South Sudan. As organizer Kathy Jaccarino, Brockport High School Library teacher exclaimed: “This has been an exciting project. The students have learned so much about conditions in Salva’s country and they have shown a true desire to improve these conditions for the people in South Sudan.” Kathy was helped by a committee of elementary school librarians, including Maria McCarthy, Cathy Mangan, Suzanne Shearman and Ellen Zinni.

Salva Dut gave a talk about his life and the movement to bring fresh water to the inhabitants of South Sudan. Many groups came together to help Brockport schools with this project, including: Brockport PTSA, Lift Bridge Books, Robb Fruit Farm, Image-Pro Embroidery and Screen Printing, the Rotary, PEO Sisterhood, the Brockport First Baptist Church, the Unitarian Church and the Newman Center, The LIFE Program, Brockport Ambulance and Fire Department, The College at Brockport, Seymour Library, Drake Library and many others.This activity on June 18 wrapped up BCSD’s year-long initiative to raise funds and global awareness through reading. Grades 5 through 12 had read Sue Park’s book, A Long Walk to Water, a poignant, true story of one of the lost boys of Sudan, Salva Dut, who finally settled in Rochester.

Brittany Ellsworth, 4th grade, presents Salva with a tee shirt inscribed with the slogan "A Walk along the Water." Part of the fundraising came from a sponsored community walk of 12 miles along the Erie Canal. That walk represented the distance people in Sudan travel each day for water.The program featured videos of the people and the poor conditions in South Sudan and the local fundraising walk followed by personal stories, many of them heartbreaking, from Salva. He related: “We were lucky to have one meal a day (in the Sudan). You are very lucky. You complain too much. We don’t even have birthday celebrations over there; some people don’t know when they were born.”

He was very thankful for what America has given him. “I came with nothing and this country has nurtured me. Thank you for having the heart to help other people.”

Fifth grader Talia Danno gets a hug from Salva after she presented him a check for $8,507.67, with fourth grader Sam Coyle assisting in the presentation. The check was made out to Water for South Sudan, Inc. The money was raised by students who participated in various fundraisers throughout the year along with much help from the community.About the water well situation in South Sudan, he had this to say: “We have drilled over 134 wells so far and drilled 33 in 2012. They are about 300 foot deep. The Brockport-sponsored well will begin to be drilled in January 2013 and be finished in May 2013.”

 

The presentation was organized by High School Library teacher Kathy Jaccarino supported by librarians Maria McCarthy, Oliver Middle School, Cathy Mangan, Fred W. Hill Elementary School, Suzanne Shearman, Barclay Elementary School and Ellen Zinni, Ginther Elementary School.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

7/1/12


Find out what BBQ judging is all about

by Kristina Gabalski

Ever dreamed about what it would be like to be able to judge a BBQ contest?

The Brockport Rotary BBQ and Music Fest this year is offering a certified Kansas City Barbeque Society (KCBS) judging class which will allow those who successfully complete it to apply to be a judge at numerous contests throughout the country.

The class will be held Friday, July 6 from 5 to 9 p.m. at the judges’ tent near the ski lodge at Northampton Park on Hubble Road and will be led by Ken Dakai.

The class is also helpful to contestants because it gives them a better understanding of what to do in order to place well, organizers say.

The cost of the class is $80 for non-KCBS members (includes one year of KCBS membership and the Bullsheet newsletter), $40 for KCBS members.

To register, visit www.brockportbbqfest.com or contact Rob Blair at 585-472-5093/brockportbbqfest@gmail.com.

The BBQ and Music Fest also offers several opportunities to demonstrate your cooking skills.

You can register for three national and state contests sanctioned by the New England Barbeque Society, the Kansas City Barbeque Society and the New York State Barbeque Championship.

The Kansas City BBQ Society Cook-Offs are those that are typically seen on television shows, such as Pitmasters.

Backyard chefs can compete for local bragging rights in the Kids ’Q, the Backyard Rib Cook-Off and the Chili Cook-Off which will be held Saturday, July 7. Cooks of all skill levels are encouraged and teams are welcome.

Organizers add that while you grill and BBQ up your best efforts, you’ll be able to enjoy live music performed by Moose River, Shaded Passion and Bonnie and Collide.

The Kids ’Q is open to ages 6-16 and includes cooking burgers and desserts on the grill. Entries will be submitted to a blind judging panel. Teams of up to three kids are allowed.

To register go to www.brockportbbqfest.com.

7/1/12

 

 

BBQ and Music Fest begins Friday

by Kristina Gabalski

Start stocking up on napkins and wet wipes, the 3rd Annual Brockport Rotary BBQ and Music Fest is set for July 6-8. The event returns to Northampton Park for a second year and will be held at the Ski Lodge area on Hubble Road off Rt. 31 just east of Brockport.

The event features good food, music, vendors, a children’s area, a beer and wine garden, national and state BBQ contests, a cruise-in and motorcycle poker run.

And all the fun is for a good cause. Over the past two years, the BBQ and Music Fest has raised $10,000 for the Wilmot Cancer Center at the University of Rochester Medical Center. This year, organizers say they hope to go well beyond that level of donation.

The weekend gets started at 5 p.m. on Friday, July 6 with a Certified Kansas City Barbeque Society (KCBS) judging class led by Ken Dakai.

A Cruise-In with food, cars and music by the Heavenly Chillbillies is also set for Friday. Live music begins at 6 p.m. Drivers of the oldies may register for $10 per car which includes premium parking and two tickets to the BBQ Fest.

Music Fest bands for Saturday and Sunday include Moose River, Shaded Passion, Bonnie and Collide, Warehouse and Jelly Root.

Contests set for Saturday include the New England Barbeque Society (NEBS) sanctioned competition, Kids ’Q, a Rib Cook-Off and Chili Cook-Off. Awards will be presented at 5 p.m.

Sunday features the Kansas City Barbeque Society (KCBS) sanctioned contest with awards at 4:30 p.m.

Also on Sunday is the 2012 Poker Run from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. to benefit the Wilmot Cancer Center. Registration for the motorcycle run is $25/bike and $10/rider and includes ride, BBQ and Music Fest parking and admission, continental breakfast, BBQ lunch, and entertainment by Warehouse and Jellyroot from 12 to 6 p.m. Registration begins at 9 a.m in the parking lot of the Ski Lodge on Hubble Rd. Check points open at 10:30 a.m.

Food vendors, BBQ product vendors and cooking demonstrators will also be participating.

General admission is $5/person; children under 12 are free. Festival hours are Friday 5-10 p.m.; Saturday 11 a.m.-10 p.m. and Sunday 11 a.m. - 6 p.m.

7/1/12


Hilton Lions present recognition awards

The Hilton Lions and Hilton Lionesses held their Installation Dinner June 7 at Carmestros Restaurant.

Lion President presented Jean Sciacchitano with the Lion of the Year award. Lioness President Dottie Swingle presented the Lioness of the Year award to Bev Pirnie. A special recognition award was given to Norma Ratigan for the 28 years she has served as Lioness Treasurer.

Drawing was held for the Lioness Scholarship Fund Quilts. Winners were Mary Ellen Stanton, Ralph Preston and Linda Tefft.

7/1/12


Historical Society provides patriotic buntings to Brockport’s Main Street stores

Many stores on Brockport’s Main Street will be decked out in red, white, and blue buntings for the July 4 holiday. Twenty buntings are being made available free to merchants by the Western Monroe Historical Society. The Society is using part of its “Bring Back the Fourth” Liberty Mutual grant to help bring a patriotic spirit to downtown Brockport. As of press time, several merchants have accepted the buntings which are on loan for the period and will be given out again next year. “It’s one way to enhance Brockport’s celebration with the grant money, in addition to improvements being made with our ‘Old Fashioned Fourth of July’ at the Morgan-Manning House,” said Alicia Fink, president of the Society’s board of trustees.

The “Old Fashioned Fourth of July” begins at Remembrance Park at 10 a.m. and an opening band concert on the Morgan-Manning grounds starting at 11 a.m.

7/1/12


Nominations invited for Greece volunteer recognition event

Greece Community Partners has again planned a recognition ceremony and reception to honor volunteers in Greece. The event will be Saturday, August 18 at 2 p.m. in the Greece Eastman Room and Atrium. In the last nine years, 220 volunteers have been recognized at the yearly event.

Many organizations in Greece have volunteers that have not been recognized in the past, according to program organizers. Applications are now available to use to submit the names and information about individuals that are worthy of such recognition. Sponsorship of volunteer(s) also gives an organization additional exposure, particularly if they need to recruit new members or volunteers.

Presenters will be NYS Senator Joe Robach, Don Riley, Vice President, Mark IV and Roger Boily, past town supervisor. Each honoree will receive a trophy and gifts.

Submit the names of individuals who have made a significant contribution to the Greece community; they may or may not be a resident of Greece. These are often volunteers that are “in the background” and have not been recognized in the past. There is a submission form fee of $10 per honoree, which covers the cost of trophies. Most of the gifts, food, drinks, floral decorations and other elements will all be donated.

Applications can be submitted by organizations, friends and neighbors. Call Dick Gretzinger, 225-3276, or email richardg11@hotmail.com for information and applications. There is a limit of 25 honorees.

7/1/12


Assemblyman offers Patriot Trip V in September

According to Assemblyman Steve Hawley (R,I,C - Batavia), the fifth annual Patriot Trip for veterans to tour Washington, D.C. is planned. The 2012 installment of this much-anticipated tradition will take place from September 27 through 30. Hawley, who served as a 1st Lieutenant in the U.S. Army Reserves as well as with the National Guard, is a member of the Assembly Committee on Veterans Affairs. The assemblyman is encouraging both new and old faces to join the fifth incarnation of the Patriot Trip.

“It’s hard to believe this will be the fifth year that I have the honor of joining Western New York’s heroic veterans in visiting our nation’s Capital to recognize not only their own service, but that of all the selfless patriots who have defended our freedom and safety as Americans,” said Hawley. “I encourage veterans and their families who have not participated in past years to join us in September and experience the powerful, moving venture that is truly a highlight of my role as a state legislator.”

Patriot Trip V will include roundtrip private coach transportation from Western New York to Washington, D.C. and accommodations at Quantico Marine Base in Virginia. The trip also includes tours of the WWII, Vietnam, Korean and Iwo Jima Memorials, as well as Arlington Cemetery. Most meals are included with the trip cost of approximately $350.

For information about trip details, pricing, or to sign-up, call Assemblyman Hawley’s District Office at (585) 589-5780.

7/1/12


Summer Serenades begin in Brockport July 5

The Greater Brockport Development Corporation hosts Summer Serenades at the Brockport Welcome Center on the Erie Canal beginning July 5.

Free concerts with locally known artists performing a wide range of styles ranging from Blues, Country, Folk, Soft Rock and a Beatles Revival every Thursday evening in July and August at 7 p.m.

•July 5 - 3rd Degree with Dennis Forelich

•July 12 - Brothers of Different Mothers with Miles Watts

•July 19 - The Rick Nicholson Band and Friends

•July 26 - Grand Canyon Rescue Episode with Tom Mahoney

•August 2 - The Band with Don Newcomb

•August 9 - Be Glad and Done

•August 16 - Country Winds

•August 23 - Bruce Jackson’s “Eight Days A Week: a Beatles Revival

•August 30 - High Maintenance with Julie Dunlap

Sponsors are: Pro-Brockport, Wegmans, Rotary Club of Brockport, Duane Beckett, The Red Bird Tea Shoppe, Village of Brockport Trustees, Reid Crosby’s Stores, Brad’s Northside Service, Fred and Terry Carbone, Wal-Mart in Brockport, Java Junction, Greater Brockport Development Corp.

These family oriented concerts are smoke and alcohol free.

7/1/12


Historical Marker dedicated in Parma

Gatherings on the Martin Farm property in blistering heat, (95 degrees), partially offset by a brisk breeze, members of the Martin family, town and county officials, representatives of the Genesee Land Trust and members of the town Farmland and Open Space Committee dedicated a historical marker in Parma commemorating the purchase of an agricultural conservation easement. As Gay Mills, Executive Director of the Genesee Land Trust, stated: “The town did a great job in making this an option. We in the Land Trust want to see this continue to happen. Thanks to the voters in Parma.” Dave Martin, owner of the farm, said: “I’ve been working this farm a long time. My dad bought it in 1920-21. Hopefully, my son will be farming after me. We want farming to continue in New York State. We need farmers to feed the world.”

The Martin Farm was, at one time, the home farm of the Martin family, a family that has been farming in Parma and surrounding properties for generations.

This is the first conservation easement secured under Parma’s Agricultural and Farmland Protection plan, adopted by the town board in April 2009. Preservation of the Martin Farm property was made possible through funding from Monroe County’s Green Space Initiative grant program. The required local matching funds were the subject of a referendum in which town residents voted 3-1 in favor of spending their local tax dollars to begin preserving Parma’s rural and agricultural character.

 

 

 

Photograph and text by Walter Horylev

7/1/12


Holley Rotarian attends convention

Sandy and John HeiseJohn and Sandy Heise attended Rotary International’s 108th International Convention held this year in Bangkok, Thailand.

John attended as Rotary District 7090 Governor.

While there, John and Sandy heard updates on Rotary’s work in eradicating polio in the world. Since beginning the campaign, according to the World Health 0rganization, 99.5% of polio cases have been eliminated. Almost 25 years ago there were 1000 new cases of polio a day. Currently there are only a few hundred. Millions of children now have a chance to lead productive lives thanks to Rotary, the World Health Organization, and a variety of countries such as the United States.

The Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation has donated some $355 million to Rotary to assist in the effort.

Provided photo

7/1/12


Holley Rotary Club presents Paul Harris Fellow Awards 

The Holley Rotary Club recognized five individuals with Paul Harris Fellow Awards.

The Award is one of Rotary’s highest forms of recognition. For each award, $1000 is donated to the Rotary Foundation. The money is used throughout the world to alleviate hunger, fight illiteracy and poverty, and bring clean water and sanitation to those in need.

Receiving recognition for their Rotary Service were (left to right): David Mitchell, Roger DeFrancesco, Joyce Ridley, Sandy Heise and Tim Towne.

Provided photo

7/1/12


 

SPORTS NEWS - WEEK OF JULY 1, 2012

AREA

Level 4 win Team Cup

Ashley Rissew (Rochester), Nia Williams-Matthews (Rochester), Kaylin Keenan (Caledonia), Emily Dix (Gates), Emma Taylor (Spencerport), Emma Flaherty (Churchville), Madison Maas (Churchville), Mya Fisher (Rochester), Gracie Vieira (Churchville), Madeline Burress (Chili), Ava Goosen (Churchville), Lindsay Green (Chili), Rebecca Dorgan (Spencerport), Elisabeth Ferrari (Spencerport), Hannah Cuzzupoli (Spencerport), Sydney Sack (Spencerport), Mary Heyden (Hamlin), Ashlyn Neathawk (Chili). Provided photoThe Bright Raven Gymnastics Level 4 Team had the best possible ending to a great season by taking first place in the large team division at the Upstate New York USAG Level 4 Team Cup. This is the sixth consecutive year a Bright Raven Team received first place at this competition. With there being no age divisions, four members of the Bright Raven Team earned the highest scores in the meet. Lindsay Green and Rebecca Dorgan both earned a 9.70 for their vaults, the highest score awarded in vaulting competition at the Championships. Sydney Sack’s 9.825 was the highest uneven parallel bar score and Elizabeth Ferrari earned the highest balance beam score of 9.875, the highest floor exercise score of 9.85 and highest all around score of 39.10. The top ten scores in each of the four women’s events, vault, uneven parallel bars, balance beam and floor exercise, were used to comprise the team score. The team effort earned Bright Raven first place totaling 381.125 points, just ahead of the second place team, Orchard Park Gymsters of West Seneca, who finished with a 379.675.

The 2012 Level 4 Team Cup was held June 3 in North Syracuse.

7/1/12


HAMLIN

Winners of the 2012 Chili Hot Dog Cup Soccer Tournament held on June 23 and 24 announced 

 

 

 

Five Hamlin Recreation teams in two different age divisions were entered and two teams won the 1st place title, the Boys U15 - Precision Chemical Systems team and the Girls U15 - Sandy Creek Marina team both became champions at the tournament.

 

 

 

 

 

 

7/1/12


 

SCHOOL DISTRICT NEWS - WEEK OF JULY 1, 2012

AREA

Winners of the Catholic Daughters of Our Lady #931 Contest held in May were: Art Awards - Division 1 - First Place - Giuliana Lincoln; Art Awards - Division 2 - First Place - Daniela Lincoln; Essay Awards - Division 1 - First Place - Megan Reilly, Second Place - Cecilia Delisanti, Third Place - Joey Lynch; Essay Awards - Division 2 - First Place - Maggie Seidenberg, Second Place - Olivia Laniak, Third Place - Madeline Dovi; Poetry Awards - Division 2 - First Place - Caroline Quarles, Second Place - Madison Smith, Third Place - Caroline Crilly.

Provided photo

7/1/12


HILTON

It all adds up for St. Paul Lutheran Jr. High Students

St. Paul Lutheran School teacher Betty Benoit tries to instill in her students a love for learning while removing a fear for numbers - and the results seem to be adding up.

Take for example this year’s junior high class. All of St. Paul’s 8th graders passed the Algebra Regents exam, a test that is geared to high school freshmen. As impressive as that is, five of St. Paul’s seven 7th graders decided to take and pass the same exam, all scoring 80 percent or higher.

One of St. Paul’s 8th graders decided to study for the Geometry Regents (in most schools a sophomore class) and scored a 98 percent on the exam. In addition to their regular classwork, Benoit enters her students in MATHCOUNTS. For the second year in a row, St. Paul students have achieved the Gold Level status in the Math Counts Club Program. MATHCOUNTS is a national enrichment club and competition program that promotes middle school mathematics achievement.

“I’m really proud of our students for working hard this year,” said Benoit. “I’m hoping that their success here shows them what they are capable of in the years to come.”

St. Paul’s Junior High School students showed that they aren’t only good with numbers, as every student in 7th and 8th grade passed the equivalent of the Spanish 1 exam.

Provided information

7/1/12

 

 

What are the fashion trends?

How should high schoolers dress for school, fun and proms? Students created looks as part of the Fashion and Clothing course modeled on the auditorium runway stage.

Fashion and Clothing students in the Family and Consumer Sciences (FACS) Department presented their designs on the runway at the school’s semi-annual Fashion Show. An anticipated event each January and June, students work hard to create contemporary fashion design, construction and modeling.

Studying the elements of design, color, sewing machine operation, patterns and textiles, students sewed their creations and study modeling techniques coached by Rochester’s Mary Therese and Kent Freil, professional models.

Students participating were: Tricia Conant, Danielle Danzig, Rebecca Jock, Samantha Mount, Maggie Mumpton, Brenna Paul, Carly Santiago, Amanda Pellechia, Laura Spath, Ciara Veomett and Ho Man Yu.

7/1/12


HOLLEY 

Holley fifth graders recognized with citizenship award

Holley fifth graders Jeremy Crandall and Shawna Lusk are this year's recipients of the Catherine B. Press Citizenship Award. Provided photoFifth graders Shawna Lusk and Jeremy Crandall were recently named the 2012 recipients of the Catherine B. Press Citizenship Award at Holley Elementary School’s Flag Day Ceremony. The award is given annually to a fifth-grade girl and boy who display caring, responsibility and good citizenship, and is named after Catherine B. Press, who was a secretary at Holley Elementary School and originally provided funding for the award.

“This student is always positive and sees the good in everyone,” said Fifth Grade Teacher Brenda Schurr about Shawna. “She listens carefully to directions and always does her best.” Shawna was also described as valuing fairness and being caring, family oriented, and a stellar example of good character. “Respect is part of her being,” said Schurr.

“This student’s mom described him as a colicky baby, but he sure got that out of his system at an early age,” joked Schurr about Jeremy. “He is dependable and always does his very best, and if he says he is going to do something, you can be sure he will do it.” Jeremy is a Boy Scout and is in the band, and hopes to be a Marine someday like his father.

The Catherine B. Press Citizenship Award is a long tradition at Holley Elementary School and came about well before the character education program was implemented. Fifth-grade teachers identify students they think exemplify good character traits, such as citizenship, respect, responsibility, trust, fairness, and caring. Then special area teachers select two students they believe display these characteristics in other areas of school.

The award, which includes a certificate and $50 savings bond, is based on the teachings of Holley Elementary’s Character Education Program. Students’ names are also added to a plaque in the foyer.

Provided information

7/1/12

 

 

 

Club’s visit brings history alive for Holley fourth and fifth graders

During Living History Day, Holley students Viktoria Emery (left) and Sierra Apicella check out Civil War artifacts with Joel Johnstone, a volunteer from the 44th New York Volunteer Infantry Historical Club. Provided photoHolley Elementary School teamed up with the 44th New York Volunteer Infantry Historical Club, Inc. to create Living History Day for the fourth and fifth grade classes. Eight stations were set up at the Holley Firemen’s Field to demonstrate activities that took place during the time period from the Revolutionary War to the Civil War. The stations included women at war, spinning and weaving, Civil War medicine, the Civil War soldier, weaponry of war, blacksmithing, mountain men, and the museum experience.

Teacher’s Aide Mattie Zarpentine, a member of the 44th NY Volunteer Infantry Historical Club, organized the event so students could see history come alive with authentic demonstrations, artifacts and period costumes. “Our objectives include commemorating the heroism and sacrifice of all, North and South, who fought in the American Civil War and promoting education about the history of the Civil War,” she said. This is the second year for the event, which was made possible with help from volunteers and the funds donated by the 44th NY Volunteer Infantry Historical Club.

Provided information

7/1/12


 

WEDDINGS & ENGAGMENTS - JULY 2012

April Cseplo - Shawn Diehl

George and Doreen Diehl of Clarendon are proud to announce the engagement of their son Shawn to April Cseplo, daughter of Jeff Cseplo of Gates and Karen Cseplo of Sodus.

Shawn is a 2002 graduate of Holley High School. He is an auto technician at Northside Service Center in Brockport.

April is a 2006 graduate of Gananda High School and a 2010 graduate of The College at Brockport. She is a teacher at Park Ridge Child Care Center with Unity Health Systems in Greece.

The couple is planning a June 2013 wedding.

 

 

 

Candice Link - Brenden Bedard

 

Candice Link and Brenden Bedard are pleased to announce their engagement and plans for a July wedding.

The bride-to-be is the eldest daughter of Kirk Link of South Colonie, New York and the late Deborah Link. The future groom is the son of Kevin and Denise Bedard of Holley.

Candice is employed as a physician assistant in Western New York. She graduated with a master’s degree from South University, Savannah, Georgia.

Brenden is employed as an epidemiologist in Western New York. He graduated with a master’s degree from the University at Albany.

 

 

 

 

Stephanie Caloren - Christopher Burgstrom

 

John and Sheri Burgstrom of Spencerport are happy to announce the engagement of their son Christopher J. to Stephanie L. Caloren. Stephanie is the daughter of Dave and Phyllis Caloren and Sharron and James Oleniacz of Bemus Point, New York.

The bride-to-be is a graduate of Maple Grove High School, SUNY Fredonia and Keuka College, earning a degree in criminal justice. The future groom, a graduate of Spencerport High School, received a degree in criminal justice from Monroe Community College and The College at Brockport. They are employed by the City of Rochester Special Forces Scuba Team.

Their wedding is planned for September 22, 2012 at Woodcliff Hotel and Spa.

 

 

 

 

Cynthia Shin - Joel Beatty

Lynn and Larry Beatty of Holley are happy to announce the engagement of their son Joel to Cynthia Shin, the daughter of In-Sook and Kwang-Ho Shin of Amherst, New York.

The bride-to-be is a graduate of Poznan University of Medical Sciences in Poland. She is a pediatric neurology resident physician at the University at Buffalo.

The future groom, a graduate of the University at Buffalo School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, is a preventative medicine resident physician at the University at Buffalo.

Their wedding is planned for September 8, 2012.

 

 

 

Susan E. Beatty - William J. Clark

 

 

Lynn and Larry Beatty of Holley are pleased to announce the engagement of their daughter Susan E. to William J. Clark. William is the son of Susan Clark and William Clark of West Seneca, New York.

Susan, a graduate of the University at Buffalo, is a retirement plan account associate at Paychex.

William graduated from St. John Fisher College and is a supervisor in the 401(K) department at Paychex.

Their wedding is planned for November 3, 2012.

 

 

 



OBITUARIES - WEEK OF JULY 1, 2012

ALBION

•VanSlyke, Jeffrey D., Formerly of Elba, age 30, died suddenly June 20, 2012. Son of David VanSlyke of Bergen and Laurie (Norm) Itjen of Elba; brother of Jaime (Jeffrey) Thomas of Bergen and Jodi VanSlyke of Elba; grandson of Jean Branton-Platten of Stafford; special friend of Katie (Chris) Smith of Akron. Also survived by aunts, uncles and cousins. Preceded in death by maternal grandfather, Raymond Branton and paternal grandparents, C. Earl and Elaine VanSlyke.

A Memorial Service was held June 25 at Morganville United Church of Christ, Stafford. Interment, Morganville Cemetery, Stafford. Contributions can be made to the Orleans County Animal Shelter, 4125 Oak Orchard Road, Albion, NY 14411 in his memory.

 

BROCKPORT

•Bennett, Rita M., on June 20, 2012 at the age of 86. Predeceased by her husband Richard J. Bennett, sister Grace Judd, sister-in-law Margaret Porter. She is survived by her daughter Margaret Jackson, son Richard M. Bennett, nine grandchildren, six great-grandchildren, several nieces and nephews.

A Funeral Service was held June 28 at the Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary Church, Main Street, Brockport. Interment at the convenience of the family. Contributions can be made to Lakeside Beikirch Care Center in her memory.

 

•Lavender, Neil L., June 25, 2012 at age 70 after a brief bout with cancer. He was predeceased by his son James and his brother Richard. Neil is survived by his loving wife Paula; son Steven (Anna); daughter Lisa (Peter) McGrath of Florida and Pamela (Nathan) Burne; and three granddaughters, two grandsons, one great-granddaughter; two nieces; several cousins, and best dog Buddie.

A Graveside Service was held June 29 at Lake View Cemetery in Brockport. Donations can be made to Lakeside Foundation, Inc., 156 West Avenue, Suite 101, Brockport, New York 14420 in his memory.

 

•LaManna, Joseph D., Previously from West Islip, Long Island. Died June 24, 2012 at 80 years. Predeceased by his parents Joseph and Rose LaManna. He is survived by his beloved wife of 53 years, Elizabeth LaManna; children Joseph W. (Julie) LaManna, Lee (John) Sheehan, Bill (Diana) LaManna; grandchildren Jessica, Megan, Nicole, Taylor, Joseph and Krista; brother-in-law Donald (Anita) Mitchell.

A Funeral Service was held June 28 at the Hamlin Methodist Church, Hamlin. Contributions can be made to the American Heart Association or to the Disabled Veterans in his memory.

 

•Lista, Vincent Joseph “Vinnie”, on June 23, 2012, at age 82, following complications from a stroke. Predeceased by his parents, Phyllis and Paul; brothers, Raymond and Gerald; and brothers-in-law, William and George Gailor. He is survived by his adoring wife of 56 years, Doris; his children, Vynne-Jo (Curt) Penoyer, Bill (Wendy) Lista, Bruce Lista, Dan (Andrea) Lista and Mary Elizabeth Lista; and twelve grandchildren. He also leaves his sister, Phyllis Lista (Mark Bewicke); aunt, Dolores Dentino; many cousins, nieces, nephews, family members, lifelong friends, and the many new friends at the Legacy at Parklands. Vinnie served his country in Korea, was a locally renowned restaurateur, Lista’s Italian Cuisine which anchored downtown Brockport’s business district for nearly three decades. Later in his career Vinnie served 15 years at SUNY Brockport as chef/caterer for FSA/BASC.

A Funeral Mass was said June 29 at the Nativity BVM Church, Brockport. Donations can be made to Lifetime Assistance Foundation, 425 Paul Road, Rochester 14624; Nativity of the BVM Catholic Church in Brockport, NY; or St. Christopher’s Catholic Church in North Chili, NY.

 

CHILI

•Gelo, Elsie M., June 20, 2012 at age 96. Predeceased by her three loving husbands and brother, Leon J. VanEecke. Survived by her nephews, Alan and Dale (Cheryl) VanEecke; and many cousins from New York to Belgium. Elsie was an active member of the Chili and Spencerport Senior Centers.

A Funeral Mass was said June 26 at St. Christopher’s Church, North Chili. Interment, Holy Sepulchre Cemetery.

 

CHURCHVILLE

•Baldwin, Sara M., June 25, 2012, at age 36 after a courageous battle with ovarian cancer. She is survived by her husband, Dane Baldwin Jr.; children, Jacob Dane and Leah Rose; parents, Barbara and Bernard Bleskoski; sisters, Linda Bleskoski and Nancie Shearing; niece, Taylor Shearing; and many other loving relatives and friends.

A Funeral Mass was said June 29 at St. Mary’s Church, Scottsville. Interment, Ascension Garden. Contributions can be made to Gynecological/Oncology Resource Fund, 125 Lattimore Road, Suite 258, Rochester, NY 14620 or the Aurora House, 2495 South Union Street, Spencerport, NY 14559 in her memory.

 

HilTON

•Freeman, Beverly A., June 14, 2012. Born in Rochester, March 27, 1942 to Geraldine and Edward Fenner. Survived by her husband of 52 years, Norman Harold Freeman. With the loving dedication of her daughter, Shari, Beverly was able to remain home until she passed. Mrs. Freeman is survived by her children, Scott Freeman, Sandy Freeman, Shawn Freeman, Shari Studley (Timothy), Kyle Freeman. She is also survived by three grandchildren, Solomon Mercer (Monika), Alyssa Mercer, Celeste Wardhaugh; and two great-grandchildren, Nathalie and Lauren Mercer.

A Memorial Service was held June 30 at the Kingdom Hall of Jehovah’s Witnesses, Sweden Walker Road, Brockport.

 

•Monroe, Ruth L. (The Collins Family), Suddenly, June 24, 2012, age 97. Predeceased by her husband, Charles, 1994. Survived by her niece, Ruth (John) Collins and their family.

A Private Family Service was held at the Thomas E. Burger Funeral Home, Inc., Hilton, followed by Interment Union Cemetery, Livonia. Contributions can be made to the Lakeside Foundation, 156 West Avenue, Brockport in her memory.

 

HOLLEY

•Hake, Dorothy A., June 26, 2012, age 75. Predeceased by her parents, Edmund and Helen Chapin. Survived by her husband, Milo; children, Joann Montois, Nancy (Gary) Strevens and Douglas (Carol) Hake; grandchildren, Chris, Justin, Brittany, Jason, Nicole, Allison, Brian, Taylor and Brandon; brothers and sisters, Edmund (Jeanne) Chapin, Helen Bonin, Lori Grosskopf and Robert Chapin; several nieces, nephews and many loving friends.

A Funeral Mass was said June 28 at Holy Ghost Church, Gates. Interment Holy Ghost Cemetery. Donations can be made to the Alzheimer’s Association in her memory.

 

OGDEN

•Nau, Richard James “Dick”, Suddenly June 19, 2012 at the age of 66. Dick is survived by his wife, Patricia F. Nau; his daughter Patricia (Scott Hix) Nau-Hix and his son, Timothy (Agnieszka) Nau; grandchildren, Chase, Cassidy and Carter, Nathan and Daniel; siblings, Robert (Anne), Ronald (Diane), Terry (Bonnie) and Larry (Kelly) Nau, Susan (Pedro) Di Gioia and Barbara (Alan) Mason; brother-in-law, James (Barbara) Brownlee; sister-in-law, Jean (Paul) McEntee; nieces, nephews, his aunt and uncle; four step children; four step grandchildren. Dick was a United States Air Force Vietnam Veteran and a Spencerport Lions Club member.

His Funeral Service was celebrated June 25 at Walker Brothers Funeral Home, Inc., Spencerport. Interment, Creekside Cemetery, Churchville. Contributions can be made to School of the Holy Childhood or Spencerport Lions Club in his memory.

 

SPENCERPORT

•Bannon, Donna M. (Fletcher), June 24, 2012 at age 79. Donna was predeceased by her husband of 61 years, on April 19, 2012, Michael C. Bannon; son, Richard Michael Bannon; her parents, Howard and Clara Fletcher; sister Marion (Don) McPherson. She is survived by her daughters, Lynda (Edmund) DeFrank and Wendy (Timothy) Hackett; grandchildren, Doug (Julie) Hackett, Mariane DeFrank, Amy (Matthew Horton) Hackett, Nicole (Alan) Carner, Vicki DeFrank; great grandchildren, Alyssa, Anthony, Aiden, Ava, Helena and Alaina; brother, James (Norma) Fletcher; brothers-in-law, Basil (Anne) and Frank (Grace) Bannon; many nieces and nephews; very special friend, Kathy Wright. Donna was a school bus driver for Spencerport Schools for 25 years, Bus #55.

A Funeral Service was held June 28 at Walker Brothers Funeral Home, Inc., Spencerport. Private interment. Contributions can be made to the James P. Wilmot Cancer Center or Aurora House Comfort Care in her memory.

 

•Conge, Laurie A. (Kane) RN, age 50, died June 23, 2012 in an automobile accident in Phelps, New York. Laurie is survived by her son, James (fiancee Kaitlon Jensen) Conge of Phelps; daughter, Melissa (Kenneth) Salvaggio of Spencerport; the father of their children, Carl John Conge; grandchildren, Ashlea Marie, Elicia, Trinity, Christian, Aiden, Alexis and Xander; brother, James Kane of Washington State.

Funeral Services will be held at a time to be announced. Memorial donations can be made to Isaiah House, 71 Prince Street, Rochester, New York 14605. Laurie spent countless hours working at this hospice house.

 

•Fattore, Michael J., June 26, 2012. Predeceased by his grandmothers, Filomena Scialo and Mary Nitzman. Survived by his devoted wife, Pamela Fattore; loving daughters, Andrea and Angela; parents Bruno and Giuseppina Fattore; brother, Ernest Fattore; nephews, Ernest, Anthony, Brent, Jason; nieces, Dianna and Erica; many aunts, uncle, cousins and friends. Michael was devoted to the Spencerport St. John the Evangelist School Aftercare Program and his property management business.

A Funeral Mass was celebrated June 30 at St. John the Evangelist Church, Spencerport. Entombment, Holy Sepulchre Cemetery. Donations can be made to Michael’s children’s education fund in his memory.

 

•Magliocchetti, Carmela C., June 21, 2012 at age 90. Carmela was predeceased by her husband Ennio Magliocchetti. She is survived by her children, Teresa (Gary) Knighton and Ronald (Donna) Magliocchetti; grandchildren, Aaron (Brandy Stewart) Weinstein, Tasha (Jamey) Orsborn; great grandchildren, Tea’, AJ, and Dominic; sister, Theresa Interieri; brother, Dominic Amuso.

A Funeral Mass was celebrated June 25 at St. John the Evangelist Church, Spencerport. Interment St. John’s Cemetery. Contributions can be made to Rochester Humane Society at Lollypop Farm in her memory.

 

•Mantel, Gwendolyn R. “Gwen”, on June 20, 2012. Gwen was predeceased by her husband, Roman Mantel and her son, Ray Mantel. She is survived by her daughters, Beverly (David) Lamphron and Mary (Harold) Martin; grandchildren, Michael (Brenda), Timothy (Debbie) and Steven (Becky) Lamphron, Teri (Phil) Call, Kimberly Ryan, Keith (Donna) Mantel, Scott (Cindy) Mantel, Robin (Jon) Boomhower and Kristine Martin; 13 great grandchildren; daughter-in-law, Jenny and Barb Mantel; several nieces and nephews. Gwen retired in 1976 as a 5th grade elementary school teacher from Neil Armstrong School, and was a Gates Presbyterian Church member for 58 years, where she served as an Elder, Deacon and Trustee.

A Memorial Service was held June 24 at Gates Presbyterian Church, Rochester. Inurnment will be held privately. Expressions of sympathy can be sent to Local Missions at Gates Presbyterian Church or Cottage Grove Memory Care, 48 Cottage Grove Circle, North Chili, NY 14514 in her memory.

 

•Nothstein, Elwood “Bill”, Retired Tech Sergeant USAF, died June 25, 2012 at age 86. Predeceased by sons, Michael K. and Dennis A. Nothstein. Survived by his wife of 62 years, Lucille “Lue”; daughters, Nancy Knight Nothstein, Penny (Charles) Clemmons; four grandchildren, Andrea (Chris) Stack, April Creech, Dennis and Charles Knight; three great grandchildren; brothers, Ralph and John (Cecelia) Nothstein; sisters, Mae Warncke, Jean Miller, Leona Berhens, Cynthia Kern; nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

Donations can be made to The 2nd Air Division Association (USAF) Memorial Library, c/o Earl Zimmerman, P.O. Box 40897, Indianapolis, IN 46240 or Spencerport Volunteer Ambulance in his memory. Arrangements by Payne & Murphy Funeral Home, Macedon.

 

•Robinson, Tanya M., Suddenly June 21, 2012 at age 46. Survived by her loving husband and best friend of 11 years, Paul. She will be dearly missed by her children, Rachel (Chad) Cropo, Whitney Russell, Danielle Russel, Jennifer (Brent) Harmon and Matthew Robinson; her three precious grandchildren, Sophie, Ariah and Dylan; mother, Sue Arft (Larry Redmond); father and mother-in-law, Gene and Delia Robinson; brother, Thomas Arft; grandfather, Charles Carpenter; many brothers and sisters-in-law; aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, cousins and her loving pup, Roscoe. Predeceased by her father, Thomas Arft.

Funeral Services will be held at the convenience of the family. Contributions can be made to a charity of one’s choice in her memory.

 

•Seuberlich, June V. (Sharpe), June 17, 2012. Predeceased by her husband, Paul O. Seuberlich; son-in-law, Jim Crawford; great-grandson, Joey NaDell. Survived by her son, Paul F. (Dianna) Seuberlich of Washington; daughter, Joan (John R. Olkevitch) Crawford of Spencerport; five grandchildren; 13 great-grandchildren; dear friends, Julie (Pat) Paris of Spencerport.

Interment, private. Donations can be made to the School of the Holy Childhood, 100 Groton Parkway, Rochester, NY 14623 in her memory.