Archives October 2011
ARCHIVES - WEEK OF OCTOBER 30, 2011
Local News - Week of October 30, 2011
The Monroe County Mayors Association welcomed Monroe County Executive Maggie Brooks to their dinner/meeting held in the Village of Fairport on October 20.
Pi
ctured are Monroe County Executive Maggie Brooks (left), Brockport Mayor Connie Castaneda (center), Spencerport Mayor Joyce Lobene (second from right), Churchville Mayor Nancy Steedman (right), Fairport Mayor Fritz May, Hilton Deputy Mayor Walter Horylev (second from left back row), Pittsford Mayor Bob Corby, Scottsville Mayor Peter Gee, Honeoye Falls Mayor Rick Milne.
Provided photo
10/30/11
Sweden plans to honor World War II veterans
The Town of Sweden honors its veterans and active duty service members in a variety of ways – through the annual Veteran’s Day luncheon at the senior center, the Wall of Honor at the community center, permanent memorials at town cemeteries, annual financial support of local veterans’ organizations and the Hometown Heroes banner program.
Two Sweden residents, Ed Perrine and Ray Morris, recently traveled to Washington DC as part of the Honor Flight program which gives World War II veterans the opportunity to visit the World War II Memorial in the nation’s capitol. Both Perrine and Morris have a connection to Sweden town government – Perrine is the father of Highway Superintendent Fred Perrine and Morris is a member of the Environmental Conservation Board.
The Sweden Town Board would like to recognize all World War II veterans residing in the town in the December edition of the town newsletter, the “Snapshots.” The town is working with the Brockport Veterans Club to identify World War II veterans. Anyone who is a World War II veteran or knows a veteran residing in the town, is asked to contact Pat Connors at 637-7588 or Fred Perrine at 637-3369 by November 18. Information may also be submitted to the Sweden Town Board at 18 State Street, Brockport
Provided information
10/30/11
Brockport Lions celebrate 60 years
The Brockport Lions Club celebrated their 60th anniversary on October 15 with a dinner and awards.
Emcee Greg Lund (l), presents a Robert J. Uplinger Award to VP Charles Switzer.
The Brockport Lions Club continues to be a strong community supporter averaging 45 to 50 members and participates in many local activities each year. The Club supports Lions International goals to reduce and eliminate preventable blindness. For information on the Brockport Lions Club contact Greg Lund 964-2774; lunddargreg@aol.com.
10/30/11
Selection of first fire district commissioners defined
by Kristina Gabalski
CLARKSON-SWEDEN-BROCKPORT - When voters in the Village of Brockport, the Town of Sweden and the Town of Clarkson decide on the formation of a joint fire district on November 29, municipal leaders want them to know who the first fire commissioners will be if the district is approved.
“We are accepting applications for people interested in serving as fire commissioners contingent on the vote,” Clarkson Supervisor Paul Kimball told Westside News Inc. “It’s important for people to know who the commissioners will be.”
Those interested can file an application with the Clarkson Town Clerk, Kimball says. Municipal leaders hope to have all applications by November 4.
Three commissioners have to come from the village, one from the Town of Clarkson and one from the Town of Sweden for the initial board, Kimball says.
“All will be appointed for one year,” he explains. “In December of 2012, there will be an open election for them and anyone else who wants to run.” At that time, the top five vote getters would be elected, Kimball says - the one with the highest number of votes receiving a five year term, the second highest vote getter a four year term and so on.
For the first appointments, Kimball says legally the two town boards make them, but practically speaking, a working group of members of all three municipal boards will review applications and make recommendations to the town boards.
Those interested must live within the proposed fire district which includes all of the Village of Brockport, all of the Town of Sweden and most of the Town of Clarkson with the exception of areas covered by the Walker and Hilton/Parma Fire Districts, Supervisor Kimball says.
He notes the appointments are contingent on the approval of the joint fire district. Voting will be held Tuesday, November 29 from 8 a.m. to 9 p.m. in both towns and the village.
During their regular meeting October 25, Brockport Village Board member Kent Blair discussed the proposed fire district during his report.
He asked voters to consider what will happen if the district is not approved and the village has to shoulder costs like a new digital trunked radio system required by Monroe County (at a potential expense of $300,000) and purchasing a new ladder truck coupled with the potential loss of personnel.
“My fear is that if the fire department is divided up, they (firefighters) will go somewhere where they can get more action,” Blair said. He noted firefighters want to make use of all the training they must now undergo.
Blair said right now the average cost of the fire department is $0.82/$1,000 assessed valuation. The proposed budget for a fire district keeps the cost at around $0.83 to $0.84/$1,000 assessed valuation.
Blair said with a fire district, residents would be getting, “.... the same trucks, the same firefighters at the same cost.”
10/30/11
Sweden’s 2012 budget shows slight tax rate decrease
The Town of Sweden’s 2012 preliminary budget calls for a total spending plan of 5.4 million dollars. The total tax levy (inclusive of special districts) will rise by $26,419 to $2,594,812. The resulting tax rate will drop by one cent per thousand in the town outside the village to $4.46, while the rate within the Village of Brockport will drop by two cents per thousand to $2.30.
For the owner of a home assessed at $125,000 in the town outside the village, the town tax bill (exclusive of special districts) will be approximately $558. For the owner of a home assessed at $125,000 in the Village of Brockport, the town tax bill will be $288. The drop in the tax rate, despite an increase in the tax levy, is attributable to an increased tax base.
This information was provided in a press release from Town of Sweden officials.
The taxable assessed value of the Village of Brockport is $202,231,367; the taxable assessed value of the town outside the village is $372,346,448 for a total tax base of $574,577,815. However, there is another $534,410,853 worth of property in the community, which is not taxable. The majority of that valuation lies within the Village of Brockport. Of the 4,408 parcels in the town (including the village), 947 or 21 percent receive some type of exemption, according to Financial Director Leisa Strabel.
Exemptions include all state, county, town, village and school owned properties; religious, hospital, non-profit and cemetery properties. There are 472 veterans exemptions; 119 agricultural exemptions and 196 aged or disabled exemptions, according to the press release.
Some of the major budget line increases include $84,000 for state retirement, $14,000 for health insurance, $20,000 for fuel; $9,000 for workers comp premiums and $7,500 for mandated storm water monitoring.
To offset these increases the town is leaving one highway crew position unfilled, reducing park development expenses; trimming departmental budgets and appropriating additional fund balance.
The new property tax cap law allows the town to raise the tax levy by $97,289 in 2012, an increase the Town Board would not support, the press release states.
“The Board’s goal is to keep both our expenditures and the tax levy as low as reasonably possible,” said Councilperson Patricia Connors. “Our budget reflects our efforts to balance services with property taxes.”
The Sweden Town Board will hold a public hearing on the 2012 budget on Thursday, November 10 at 7 p.m. at the Sweden Town Hall, 18 State Street.
Provided information
10/30/11
Local author Roy Bubb signs a copy of his latest book, From Clarendon to Colon, The Lure of Panama’s Isthmus, for Betty Sherwood Genter, herself an author.
Tracey Robinson, whose life is central to Bubb’s effort, spent 50 years of his life in Panama (and whose father was one of the first to settle in the area) is one of those Bubb has chosen to portray. Well-known area artist Helen Smagorinsky contributed one of her area paintings for the book’s cover.
All sales proceeds go to the Clarendon Historical Society. The book may be obtained ($20) by contacting the Town of Clarendon (TownofClarendon.org) or calling 585-638-6371, ext. 104.
Over $2,000 has been raised to date. Author Betty Genter is the mother of Alexandra whose adoption and growing years were the subject of a six-part series printed in Westside News Inc. newspapers this past summer. Her book about Alexandra is titled My Mama.
Provided photo
10/30/11
Hamlin Town Board adopts 2012 budget
The Hamlin Town Board approved and adopted the town’s 2012 budget on Monday night, October 24, following a public hearing held to review the budget.
The proposed 2012 budget for the Town of Hamlin for General and Highway shows a spending level $21,210 below the 2011 budget. Due to less anticipated revenue, there is a projected tax increase, but certainly below the allowable 2 percent property tax ceiling imposed by law, according to a press release from Hamlin Supervisor Peter Terry.
The board has recognized a savings in contracting with a new revaluation service for the Assessor’s Department, and a savings has been found in Public Safety. Several contractual expense accounts were reduced, including the supervisor’s. The town’s recreation department continues to expand. Playground and recreational salaries, as well as contractual expenses, are increased to reflect demand. On the revenue side, additional recreation income will offset these increases.
Library contractual expenses have to be increased to meet costs passed down by the county library system; workman’s comp and medical for General, and state retirement for Highway are all projected to have double digit increases, the press release stated.
Necessary work on the infrastructure of the town will be better dealt with in 2012 with an increase in the Highway General Repairs contractual expense. The Highway Superintendent pointed out to the board at one of the workshops that the town has to pay the county $20,000 a year to stripe roads and that comes out of General Repairs expense. The price of salt is up for the winter season, for another increased expense to the town, according to information in the press release.
On the revenue side of the ledger, General’s unexpended balance is projected to be $100,000 less, while Highway’s is $50,000 greater. The town’s new lease agreement with Grain Communications will result in a projected doubling of cell tower revenue. However, low interest rates in the financial world do not work in the town’s favor; interest income expectations are lower on the balances maintained.
Residents will see a tax rate increase of 10 cents per thousand of assessed valuation. Twenty percent of that (2 cents) is due to a decrease in the total taxable value of the real estate in town, according to the press release. Following the reassessment of 2010, the town had a sizable increase in the number of residents obtaining valid exemptions for eligible properties they owned, according to the information provided.
Provided information
10/30/11
Newcomer challenges in Parma Highway Superintendent race
by Kristina Gabalski
Mike Clark
Brian SpeerVoters in Parma will decide on a Highway Superintendent on Election Day, November 8. Incumbent Brian Speer, who has held the job for more than 13 years and won the Republican Primary in September, is being challenged by newcomer Mike Clark, who has the Independence and Conservative endorsements.
Clark says it’s time for a change in the Highway Department and that finishing second in a Primary to an incumbent and his party by 50 votes was an extremely tremendous showing for a new entrant into the political arena.
“Bringing more of the troubling issues to light prior to the November 8 election should get the vote out to change,” he says. “The people that know what is going on at the Highway Department are the people that asked me to run for this office. It’s now my job to educate the residents of the Town of Parma to what has been ‘business as usual’ and prove to them that I am the right man for the job. Mr. Speer has offered no solutions to the problems at his department, I find that unconscionable.”
Clark has lived in Parma for over 40 years and resides in the Village of Hilton with his wife, Kelly, and their children, Carter and Ella. He is the vice-president at the Wm Summerhays Sons Corporation, a company engaged in the commercial boiler business. Clark spends his free time coaching and developing children in youth sports through the recreation department’s various programs and as an assistant high school varsity basketball coach and a Hilton Raider football coach.
His background managing work crews and projects of various type for over 25 years has given him a wide array of experience, Clark says. “Union boilermakers, masons and steeplejacks as well as sub-contractors of various trades are all different types of employees I have organized and supervised in the past,” he says. “My main role has been to control the costs of projects by monitoring equipment and materials purchasing as well as the man hours spent to complete the projects. Bringing these under budget through completion of the projects results in a profitable company, a company that stays in business.”
As Highway Superintendent, Clark says he would like to improve the identity of the Highway Department. “By this I mean, give the department a fresh look. Start an interactive website specific to the highway department. Improve roadside drainage throughout the town. Manage the employees with a more direct approach, not through a non-working foreman. I will be the one to direct the employees everyday.”
Clark would also like the Highway Department to be more responsive to the real problems of town residents by visiting troubled properties and determining how to resolve the issues at hand within a reasonable period of time. “People should not have to take extra time from their busy schedules to attend town board meetings to have the highway department come out and look at the culvert under their driveway or other drainage issue. Mostly I would like to do the job I will be elected to do - perform the tasks required of my position; provide leadership and control costs.”
Generating revenue for the highway department to help offset rising costs in the summer months is one of Clark’s proposals. He would also like to cut costs by eliminating personal use of vehicles and cell phones and implement a highway superintendent pay reduction of five percent to hold that salary for two years. Because he doesn’t need (employer provided) health/dental insurance coverage, Clark says he could reduce town premiums by $10,000 annually.
“Increasing summer month revenues would help alleviate the DB fund shortage faced in the last several years and left un-addressed by the current administration,” Clark says. “Expanding townwide drainage projects and water district extensions are just a couple of ideas. I would also propose to evaluate cost saving measures such as unused equipment/asset sell off and removing personal use of vehicles and cell phones.”
Highway Superintendent Brian Speer says his years of experience in construction and as highway superintendent make him the best candidate. “I do enjoy the job,” he says and his primary goal is to provide services ensuring that all who travel the roads in Parma will do so in safe conditions. “My priority is to get our roads in the best shape we can and make them as maintenance free as possible,” Speer says.
Speer has lived in Parma for 30 years and worked for the town for 24 years. He and his wife, Betsy, have three children - Sara, Erin and Bradley.
He says the election is not about him or Mike Clark, “but about serving the people.”
He says with his knowledge of the job, he would never enter into it without related experience like construction work.
Speer says his years of experience include work as a heavy equipment operator, private heavy equipment contractor, heavy equipment mechanic, experience in snow and ice removal, road repair and replacement, and 14 years of attendance at the annual Cornell Local Roads Highway School.
He describes the race for highway superintendent this year as contentious. “There are people in it for all the wrong reasons,” he says. He has been critical of his opponent’s lack of highway/construction experience and what he calls “misinformation and inaccurate statements” about the highway budget.
Speer says the highway department does a good job and that the “irresponsible actions” of the previous supervisor put the department in debt.
“It’s the responsibility of the town board to put taxes where needs are, that’s the point I’m trying to get across,” he says.
Regarding important issues, Speer says drainage is a major one for Town of Parma residents. “It’s a tough town to drain,” he notes, particularly with the flat terrain, “.... we are working on it all the time and with more development it becomes more of an issue.”
When purchasing equipment, Speer says he likes to get as much use out of an item as possible. For example, he says smaller trucks purchased by the department are fitted with utility boxes, and workbenches and also now carry ladders.
“When I buy a machine, I like to put it to multiple uses as much as possible,” he says.
He notes that he secured federal funds with the help of Monroe County to replace three town bridges. One, over Salmon Creek on Hill Road is being replaced this year. Next year the Hill Road bridge over Brockport Creek and the Collamer Road Bridge over East Creek will be replaced.
“Eighty percent of the cost was covered by federal aid,” Speer says, “fifteen percent by the state and five percent by the town.”
He says that although federal funds are beginning to dry up for bridge work, he would like to try to get more bridge work accomplished in the town.
The town is also in the process of building a new salt shed in a joint effort with the Village of Hilton, the Hilton School District and the Hilton Fire Department. The new shed will hold 3,000-4,000 tons of salt compared to the current shed which only holds 600 tons. “We have to fill the building constantly,” he says. The village, town, school district and fire department will all share the salt, Speer notes. “The village took the lead and recognized the need,” he says.
“Once we get the salt shed up there are additional storage facilities we need,” Speer adds.
He also revamped the electrical service to the highway garage and now the entire building and outside lighting can be run during power outages by a generator attached to the mowing tractor. Previously the generator only powered one row of lights and some offices, Speer says.
He says his Republican primary win was significant because it showed ... “I have the support of many people in this town.”
10/30/11
Feature Stories - Week of October 30, 2011
New holiday attraction opening at The Shops On West Ridge
Dianne Dengel
Jack HaldoupisThe Shops On West Ridge, formerly the Craft Antique Co-Op, opens a new holiday attraction for area families this year. In celebration of the 18th annual Dickens Fest, the Shops On West Ridge has staged, “A Journey Through A Christmas Carol.” The new attraction draws inspiration from (for those old enough to remember) Sibley’s Magic Corridor that was part of downtown Rochester’s holiday tradition for many years.
“A Journey Through A Christmas Carol” is a collaboration between three of Rochester’s icons; Jack Haldoupis, theatrical Director of Rochester’s Black Friar’s Theater; Dianne Dengel, internationally recognized artist who calls Rochester her home; and Homer Marple, local entrepreneur and the original promoter of the Dickens Fest. Together, with assistance from many of the shopkeepers at The Shops On West Ridge, they have created a visual treat for all who attend.
“A Journey Through A Christmas Carol” tells the beloved story of Ebenezer Scrooge and the visits of the three ghosts. Visitors will walk through a series of vignettes that bring the story to life. Homer Marple commissioned the new project. “We have made some big changes here at the Shops On West Ridge with new displays and those changes forced us to re-think our festival,” Marple said. “In doing so, we came up with this new idea that I think brings new life to our festival and to the story.” Once the new idea was hatched, Marple turned the project over to his grandson, Nile Marple, who has acted as project coordinator. Nile then turned to two vendors who have shops within the Shops On West Ridge for artistic inspiration.
“We have many vendors in our building with such talent. For this project, with its theatrical foundation, I thought Jack would be a perfect fit. And he has been.”
Jack Haldoupis has been the creative force behind “A Journey Through A Christmas Carol.” A member of Rochester’s Theatrical Hall of Fame, Haldoupis has created an inspired yet simple telling of the classic tale of Charles Dickens. “There are key moments to this enchanted story. We have selected those key moments and recreated them in this adaptation.” Artist Dianne Dengel, whose clients have included the likes of Oprah Winfrey, Fred Rogers and other notables creates cherished paintings which portray life in a simpler time. Dengel has brought her unmistakable trademark faces to the characters from Crachit to Tiny Tim. “We have celebrated the Dickens story for almost 20 years here at the Co-Op. I am so happy to be able to be part of this new adaptation,” Dianne said.
“A Journey Through A Christmas Carol” opens November 12. Admission is free. Hours are the same as the hours for The Shops On West Ridge, which are expanded during the holiday season. Check their web site for other information, www.shopsonwestridge.com. During the holiday season, The Shops On West Ridge accept donations for The Open Door Mission. All donations are then matched by The Shops. The Shops On West Ridge are located at 3200 Ridge Road West in Greece.
Provided information
10/30/11
Frugal homemakers made good use of feedsacks
by Kristina Gabalski
For many folks born after 1950, clothing and other household linens made from feedsack cloth are a bit of a curiosity. “A lot of people don’t know what you’re talking about,” Town of Marion Historian Carolyn Adriaansen says about the items she calls “henhouse linens” which were made from feedsacks mainly from the 1920s - 1940s.
Feedsack cloth, which was most often made from cotton, provided fabric for everything from pillowcases to underwear.
Adriaansen recently presented a talk to the Gates Historical Society on feedsack cloth and its many uses.
The cloth came from sacks and bags that held everything from flour to sugar to chicken feed and grains.
According to quiltersmuse.com, the bags began as a marketing tool to boost sales of feed and grain. The bags were constructed so that when the side seam was opened, more than one yard of usable fabric was available to the frugal housewife. Three sacks were usually enough to make a woman’s dress.
The sacks were especially popular during the Great Depression and World War II. The recycled cloth was sewn into dresses, aprons, shirts, underwear, curtains, towels, dolls, quilts, tablecloths, sheets, and pillowcases.
“During WWII especially, it was important to encourage women to recycle the bags,” information found on quiltersmuse.com reports.
The feedsack cloth came in a wide range of patterns and colors, Adriaansen says. “There were stripes, and little flowers, blues and greens and yellows,” she says. “It only cost a bag of feed and 20 cents more, and you were getting something you could use again.”
Some feedsack cloth was white with labeling ink that would wash out. The printed and colored bags had paper labels which could be soaked off.
Following the 1940s, paper and plastic bags began to replace the cloth ones, quiltersmuse.com states, although there was some limited production of cloth bags into the 1960s.
10/30/11
Morton Fire Department receives donation
The Morton Fire Department received a donation of three Project Breathe pet oxygen masks, courtesy of Invisible Fence Brands of New York. Making the presentation and talking about how to use them properly was marketing representative Chris Shand. He stated that the company is in the business of saving pets’ lives, including being safe from hazards like house fires. He cited industry websites and sources that an estimated 40,000 to 150,000 pets die each year in fires, mostly from smoke inhalation. Emergency responders have not been equipped to deal with the crisis. Invisible Fence Brands of New York is trying to fill this need by starting the Pet Oxygen Mask Donation Program, one kit of three different size masks per station. The Morton Fire Department was the fifth Rochester area station to receive a kit.
The three sizes of Project Breathe pet oxygen masks were put on display; the small one is for cats and small dogs, the middle size is for larger dogs and the large size is for big dogs.
After the talk, members of the Morton Fire Department posed with the donated oxygen mask units. Included in the picture are: front row, right to left: Ken Keirn, assistant chief; Chris Shand, marketing representative; Jill Shipman, EMT; Cliff Burch, chief (back row, right to left) Tory Zinmeister, Explorer Scout; Shawn Delano, firefighter and Andy Gudonis, firefighter. To date, more than 3,000 kits have been donated to fire stations throughout the United States and Canada. To build on their existing program the company opened a donor-advised program with The Fidelity Charitable Gift Fund to collect charitable contributions to support organizations and programs that help save pets’ lives. Donations can be made via this website: http://www.invisiblefence.com/Giving-Back/Project-Breathe.
Photographs by Walter Horylev
10/30/11
Brockport MOMS Club collecting gently loved toys for annual giftaway
The MOMS Club® of Brockport is collecting new and gently used toys and gifts for their 5th Annual Holiday Giftaway. Previously used, good condition toys, gifts, books and batteries may be dropped in the collection boxes at donation sites (beginning the first week in November) in the Brockport area: The Seymour Library (161 East Avenue, Brockport); Java Junction (56 Main Street, Brockport); and The College at Brockport Judo Dojo in Cooper Hall (New Campus Drive, Brockport); Sweden Clarkson Community Center (4927 Lake Road South, Brockport).
Donated items will be distributed to families on December 2 from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. and December 3 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Elks Lodge in Brockport, 4400 Sweden Walker Road.
Questions can be directed to Christine Green at 395-9833 or Carol Ann Pittman at 293-9834.
10/30/11
Sports News - Week of October 30, 2011
BYRON-BERGEN
Bees advance in soccer
by Warren Kozireski
Junior Austin Richardson scored twice and assisted on a third goal as third-seeded Byron-Bergen trounced #14 Warsaw 7-0 in the opening round of the Section V boys soccer tournament.
The Bees took just three minutes to open the scoring as Clayton Lovelace passed to Richardson, who scored on what looked like an innocent feed to the slot that snuck into the net.
In the 17th minute, midfielder Josh Lathan found Richardson who sent a shot toward the net from 30 yards out that skipped on the wet grass past the Tigers’ goalkeeper for a 2-0 lead.
At 31:15, Jake Maurer fed a perfect pass down the slot to break Lovelace in on goal all alone. He put his shot inside the left post to make it 3-0 at halftime.
In the opening minutes of the second half, a cross found Destry Mullen in the box and his pass to Lovelace led to the fourth Byron-Bergen goal at 42:56.
Less than three minutes later, Brad Strzelecki passed to Mullen who put in his own rebound for a 5-0 B-B lead.
In the 66th minute Mason Muoio fed a perfect touch pass up the middle from midfield to Richardson who then passed to Mike Rickard on the left side of the box. Rickard put it into the empty net to make it 6-0.
The final tally came at 71:37 as Luke Audsley sent a through pass to break Dennis Payne in all alone on net.
Bees goalkeeper Jeff Maskell made five saves in net in registering the shutout.
The win advanced Byron-Bergen on to the next round to face Red Creek.
10/30/11
CHURCHVILLE-CHILI
Churchville-Chili Girls clench Division 2 Title
The Churchville-Chili Girls Varsity Volleyball team clenched the Monroe County Division 2 Title with a league record of 14-0.
The Saints were going into Class A Sectionals with a 16-2, overall record, as the #2 seed. The team played their Pre-Quarter match October 27 and the Quarter-finals Saturday, October 29.
Provided information
10/30/11
School News - Week of October 30, 2011
AREA
BOCES 2 SkillsUSA students go to Washington to advocate for Career and Technical Education
SkillsUSA students Jon Page and Tianna Gaffney, of BOCES 2 WEMOCO Career and Technical Education Center, met with Congresswoman Kathy Hochel’s legislative aide, Blake Anderson (left), in Washington, DC to advocate for Career and Technical Education and the Perkins Grant.
The goal of the grant is to develop the academic, vocational, and technical skills of secondary and post-secondary students in vocational technical programs.
SkillsUSA is a national organization of students, teachers, and industry working together to ensure America has a skilled workforce.
Provided photo
10/30/11
BOCES 2 special education students help musical production at Spencerport High School
Student Kelly Brooks sews a headpiece for one of the costumes. Provided photoStudents Lee Richardson, Janelle Wolff, Kristen Pardee, Ben Fesyuk, Tyler Groenendaal, and Charlie Davignon in BOCES 2 Teacher Amy Wood’s special education class at Spencerport High School and BOCES 2 Teacher Kristie Holt’s student Kelly Brooks helped sew the headpieces for the Spencerport High School Musical Production of “Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat.”
“The students worked a little each day on the project,” said Wood. “It was a very relaxing and happy part of their day.”
The students wanted to volunteer to be part of their high school and to be part of something big. “I thought it would be beneficial for the Spencerport community to see my students give back to their school and that they are capable of many things,” said Wood. The students’ efforts will be noted in the program.
Provided information
10/30/11
HILTON
Hilton community works to Make A Difference
Hilton Central School District teacher Coleen Coles is surrounded by helpers at the Hilton Community Center where a food drive to re-supply the Hilton Food Shelf was held Saturday, October 22, as part of national “Make A Difference Day.”
More than 200 volunteers from the school and wider community participated in a variety of projects with help from Hilton-Parma Chamber of Commerce; Hilton/Parma Community Council of Churches; Hilton Education Foundation; Town of Greece; Hamlin Youth Group; Town of Parma; Hilton Lions Club; Hilton-Parma Recreation; Hilton Rotary; Village of Hilton; Paint Parma Green; Napa Auto Parts of Hilton; Branmark Group of Hilton; Maven Technologies; Monroe Tech of Hilton; and the Hilton Central School District.
Among the projects included trail maintenance at area parks, recycling computers and electronic items, winterizing windows and a blood donation drive at Hilton High School.
Provided photo
10/30/11
HOLLEY
Holley students pledge not to text and drive
Holley Middle School/High School students know what can happen in a matter of seconds when someone tries to text and drive - and that the consequences can be devastating. To kick off Red Ribbon Week, grades 7 through 12 attended a presentation about texting and driving after which they signed a pledge to “Remember Alex Brown” and received an orange thumb band to remind them of that pledge.
The Brown Family of Wellman, Texas lost their daughter, Alex Brown, in a single car accident as she drove to what seemed like just another ordinary day of her senior year in high school. The cell phone on which she had sent and received over 10,0000 text messages in the weeks preceding her accident was with her. Alex lost her life to texting while driving. The family now works to educate others about the dangers of distracted driving.
Teacher Willis Haring and Teacher’s Assistant Ben Slate decided to organize the assembly in Holley after seeing the story on Extreme Makeover: Home Edition and after Slate’s brother was involved in a texting and driving accident. Students watched a simulation video of a horrific accident in which a teenager was texting while driving with friends. According to Distraction.gov, the official U.S. government website for distracted driving, the age group with the largest proportion of distracted drivers is the under-20 age group.
Students then watched the Alex Brown video in which her parents and sister talked in great detail about the day of her accident, and how their lives were forever changed.
Science Teacher Dan Goodwin, who is also a dirver’s education instructor, asked students about how long they thought it takes them to send one text. “About two seconds,” answered Maddie Pritchard.
“It only takes five seconds for a car traveling 60 miles per hour to go 100 yards,” Goodwin told students. “You can’t afford to take your eyes off the road for even a few seconds.”
“The teaching of this is very important and I think students took it to heart,” said Freshman Jade Underwood. “Texting and driving is definitely not worth losing your best friend over.”
Provided information
10/30/11
SPENCERPORT
Canal View Elementary School invites votes for playground grant
Canal View Elementary School is a nominee in The Clorox Company’s Power a Bright Future grant program, and needs votes to win funding for an adapted playground for its students with disabilities. After a competitive national nomination period, Canal View has the opportunity to win up to $50,000 through voting from October 24 through December 9.
To vote: Text to vote by texting clorox 1888 to 44144; or vote online at http://www.powerabrightfuture.com/gallery/detail/?nid=1397. One vote per day is accepted.
The program that receives the highest number of votes will be awarded the $50,000 grand-prize grant, and the next top vote-getters in the Play; Create and Explore categories, respectively, will be awarded a $25,000 grant. Clorox’s judging panel will select one additional lucky school to win a $25,000 judge’s choice grant.
Teresa Zappia, the physical therapist at Canal View who has been the driving force of the initiative, said, “Many of us have spent countless hours playing and laughing on a playground. It’s a place where children grow physically, emotionally, and socially. Although a playground is a staple for many kids, there are some more accustomed to watching their peers slide, swing, and climb because this space is not accessible for them. This additional equipment would give all kids in our community the opportunity to learn alongside their peers regardless of ability.”
The idea for an adapted playground began several years ago with the intent to provide an inclusive space for all children to learn, play, and improve their overall health together. Since then, a committee made up of staff, parents and community members has pursued specialized playground designs, grants, and donations to administer the project in phases.
Watch a You Tube video created pro bono by Dixon Schwabl Advertising to learn more, http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GQmYPrjuoQU.
Provided Information
10/30/11
Obituaries - Week of October 30, 2011
Death Notices for the Week of October 30, 2011
BERGEN
•Beedham, Richard C. “Doc”, on October 21, 2011, at age 82. Survived by his loving wife, Nancy P. (Penner) Beedham; five children; 10 grandchildren; two great-grandchildren; many nieces and nephews.
Funeral services were held October 25 at the H.E. Turner & Co. Funeral Home, Bergen. Memorials can be made to the Bergen Fire Department, PO Box 428, Bergen, New York 14416, or the American Legion Post 575, PO Box 207, Bergen, New York 14416. Burial in Mt. Rest Cemetery, Bergen.
•Loiacono, James V., October 20, 2011 at age 93. He is survived by his loving and devoted wife of 43 years, Rose (Murgillo) Loiacono; grandchildren, Corinna (Peter) Kasandrinos, Jennifer (Ronald) Oriel;, and Jimmy (Heather) Loiacono; brother, Louis (Ruth) Loiacono of Seattle, Washington; 12 great-grandchildren and many nieces and nephews. Preceded in death by his son, Jimmy Allen Loiacono; sisters Phylis, Helen and Rose; and brothers, Peter, Joe, Felix, Johnny and Tony. Jim was a boxer as a young man, an avid race-horse owner at Batavia Downs, and a member of the Local Union 435.
A Mass of Christian Burial was held privately. Contributions can be made to the American Heart Association, 2113 Chili Avenue, Rochester, New York 14624 in his memory. Burial in Holy Sepulchre Cemetery, Rochester.
BROCKPORT
•Hafner, Vincent Lester, October 23, 2011 at age 90. Predeceased by his brother, Bernard Hafner and sister, Irene Turoski. He is survived by his beloved wife of 65 years, Bertha Hafner; sons, David (Linda) Hafner, William (Linda) Hafner; granddaughters, Vicki, Kristin, Kelly; grandson, Timothy; great grandson, Brian; brother, Warren (Flo) Hafner; sisters, Dorothy Carroll, Marilyn Sailer, Joyce Dodson; brother-in-law, Will DeRoo; sister-in-law, Irene DeRoo; many nieces and nephews.
His Funeral Mass was celebrated October 27 at St. John the Evangelist Church, Spencerport. Interment in Maple Grove Cemetery. Donations can be made to Lifetime Care, 3111 Winton Road South, Rochester, New York 14623 in his memory.
•Hoak, Luanne E., October 19, 2011. Predeceased by her parents, Everett and Louise Hoak. Survived by her daughter, Lindsay (Michael) Schoonmaker; four grandchildren, Damian, Nathan, Mikey and Kadence.
A Memorial Service was held October 25 at White Haven Memorial Park Creation Chapel, 210 Marsh Road, Perinton.
•Rayburn, Alice Cade, Died October 19, 2011, after a full and blessed life at the age of 101. Predeceased by her husband of 50 years Andrew Rayburn Sr., beloved son Fred, siblings Louisa Babcock, Gladys Cochrane, Edith Hopf and Lawrence Cade. She is survived by her beloved sons Andrew (Norma) Rayburn Jr., Robert (Betty) Rayburn; daughter Jean (Alfred) Love; nine grandchildren; nine great grandchildren; three great-great grandchildren; sister Evelyn Eisenhauer; brother Sydney Edward Cade; several nieces, nephews and many friends. Alice lived in Clarkson 74 years, was active in ministries at Clarkson Community Church, Christian Women’s Club and Cupola/Beikirch Nursing Homes.
Interment will be private. A Memorial Service will be announced at a later date. Contributions can be made to Clarkson Community Church or Lollypop Farm in her memory.
CHILI
•Reimherr, Brenda Mae (Bobzien), Died October 20, 2011. She was a 25 year retiree of Rochester Institute of Technology. Survived by her loving and devoted husband, Arthur; children, Steven (Laura), Debbie (Rick) McCarthy; granddaughters, Lindsay Pajek, Noelle Anderson, Shawna Reimherr and Molly McCarthy; great-granddaughters, Hannah Mae, Dezireigh and Khloe; any nieces, nephews and cousins; brother-in-law and sisters-in-law. A dedicated and active member of the Trinity Lutheran Church in Spencerport, and was faithfully involved in the Ladies Guild, Ladies Bible Study and Men’s and Ladies Bible Study Groups. She was also a member of the American Legion Post 1830 Ladies Auxiliary and the Chili Seniors Center.
A Graveside Service was held October 24 at Grove Place Cemetery. A Memorial Service will be held November 5 at 2 p.m. at Trinity Lutheran Church, Nichols Street, Spencerport.
CHURCHVILLE
•O’Marra, Theresa, October 20, 2011, at age 84. Theresa was predeceased by her husband of 49 years, Richard T. O’Marra and grandson, David O’Marra. She is survived by her children, Richard G. (Reenie), Thomas P. (Patricia) and Timothy J. (Jana) O’Marra; 11 grandchildren; 21 great grandchildren; siblings, Ida Bromka and Thomas (Janet) McGuire; daughters-in-law, Gwynne and Jan O’Marra, Judy Bond and Deborah White.
A Memorial Mass will be celebrated at a time and date to be announced. Interment was held at St. Vincent DePaul Cemetery. Contributions can be made to Lakeside Beikrich Care Center, 170 West Avenue, Brockport, New York 14420, in her memory.
HILTON
•Amo, Dorothy R., On October 21, 2011. Widow of Howard R. Amo Sr. She is survived by sons, Howard (Laurraine), David (Kathleen), and Roy (Valerie); seven grandchildren; seven great-grandchildren; and her sister, Loretta Harrington.
Her Memorial Mass was said October 27 at St. Leo’s Church, Hilton. Interment, Parma Union Cemetery. Contributions can be made to the Second Floor Resident’s Fund at Kirkhaven, 254 Alexander Street, Rochester, New York 14607 in her memory.
•Dawson, Benjamin H., On October 25, 2011. He is survived by his wife, Linda; children, Pamela (Aaron Fender), Melissa (Christopher) Fox, Jennifer (Greg) Manser, Richard (Nichole) Pulliam and Michelle (deceased 1977); grandchildren, Noah, Allison, Caleb, Kyle, Payge, Moses and Hayleigh; brothers, Paul and Michael Dawson; sisters, Sue Rotoli, Mary Lynn Dunn, Catherine Enriquez and Sarah Turbin (deceased 2011).
A Memorial Service was held October 29 at Christ Chapel, Hamlin. Contributions can be made to Veteran Service Agency, 125 Westfall Road, Rochester 14620 in his memory.
HOLLEY
•Alvut, Marjorie K., Age 94, October 22, 2011. Predeceased by husband of 58 years, Clifford in 2000; son-in-law, Edward Weatherbee. Survived by step-daughter Barbara (Stan) Sayles of East Rochester; son Richard (Cathy) of Holley; daughters Diane Weatherbee of Holley, Polly (Lynn) Hill of Albion; 12 grandchildren; 16 great-grandchildren and her cat Spooky.
Funeral Services were held October 26 at the Christopher Mitchell Funeral Homes, Inc., Holley. Interment, Hillside Cemetery. Contributions can be made to Holley Fire Department or an organization of one’s choice in her memory.
•Thompson, Janet L., Died October 20, 2011 at her home in Holley, after a long and courageous battle with cancer. She is survived by her husband of 60 years, James (Jeff) Thompson; her son, Dr. Steven J. Thompson (Candace); grandson, Dr. Steven Michael Thompson (Jennifer); granddaughter, Catherine Thompson; great granddaughter, Charlotte Thompson; brother, Kenneth G. Thompson (Sue); sister, Vera Thompson Treadway (Clinton); aunts: Ella Duckworth and Gwen Ebert; and many nephews, nieces, and cousins. Janet had a 37-year career with the Owens-Illinois Glass Company. Starting as a bottle selector in Charleston, West Virginia, she continued her education at Charleston Business School and moved to the position of secretary to the OI Personnel Director. When the Charleston OI plant closed in 1962, Janet and Jeff were transferred to Brockport, where she later became Credit Union Manager. As the Brockport OI plant prepared for closing in 1985, she was instrumental in helping to establish the Brockport Federal Credit Union, where she served as manager until her retirement in 1997. A woman of many talents and interests, Janet’s primary activities centered around her church and her family. She was an active member of the First Presbyterian Church of Holley and the Holley Garden Club.
A Memorial Service was held at the First Presbyterian Church of Holley on October 29. Donations can be made to the First Presbyterian Church, 34 East Albion Street, Holley, New York 14470, Hospice of Orleans County, 14080 Route 31 West, Albion, New York 14411, or the James P. Wilmot Cancer Center, 601 Elmwood Avenue, Box 704, Rochester, New York 14642 in her memory.
MURRAY
•Cotter, Wesley J., On October 22, 2011 at age 90. He is survived by his loving companion Cora Stavalone; three sons; one daughter; two sisters Betty and Harriet; several grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces and nephews.
A Funeral Service was held October 25 at the Fowler Funeral Home Inc., Brockport. Interment, Garland Cemetery. Donations can be made to the American Cancer Society in his memory.
NORTH CHILI
•Harris, Alta Lucille (Stubbe), On October 24, 2011, age 101. Alta was predeceased by her husband, Walter A. Harris, her parents, Charles and Wihelmina (Kummerow) Stubbe; her five older sisters and their spouses; several nieces and nephews and their spouses. Alta is survived by her children and their spouses, Alan (Erika) Harris and Marguerite (Lawrence Kotowicz) Harris; granddaughter Michele (Jason) Tarantino; nieces, nephews and spouses Helen (Haag) Mays, Patricia (Leo) Haag, Norman and Rowena Haag, Louella (Don) Haag, Herb and Ann Galen and Sandra (McKissock) Bock; many great nieces and great nephews including William Hartwig III who resided with her in her later years, and Alta’s lifelong friend, Florence Pletsch; in-law nephew/niece Dennis (Linda) Harris and Diane (Gerald Billingsley) Harris. She was a member of the North Chili Quilt Club, Trinity Lutheran Church and North Chili First Methodist Church.
Services were held October 28 at the United Methodist Church of North Chili. Interment at the North Chili Rural Cemetery. Donations can be made to Hillside Family of Agencies, United Methodist Church of North Chili or The Jewish Home of Rochester in her memory.
SPENCERPORT
•Everett, Fred, On October 22, 2011 at age 80. He is survived by his loving wife of 59 years Marjorie; two daughters, Sandy (Michael) Fox, Leslie (Michael) Dwaileebe; one son, Norm (Jennifer) Everett; one brother, Lee (Shirley) Everett; eight grandchildren and one great-grandchild. Fred was an avid golfer, enjoyed music, and had started writing poetry within the last year.
A celebration of his life was held October 29 at the Ogden Presbyterian Church. Contributions in his memory can be made to the Aurora House in Ogden.
ARCHIVES - WEEK OF OCTOBER 23, 2011
Local News - Week of October 23, 2011
Chili FD plans 9/11 memorial
Chili's truck and trailer with the artifact at JFK airport Hangar 17 on October 12. Provided photoThe Chili Fire Department recently completed a two year process of acquiring an artifact from the World Trade Center
Three firefighters spent two days driving to New York City to retrieve the artifact from JFK Airport’s Hangar 17 where all of the artifacts have been stored for the past 10 years.
The Port Authority of New York and New Jersey Police have overseen this program since its beginning, with hundreds of artifacts being picked up or delivered to governmental agencies for use as memorials around the country.
Chili’s artifact is an 18 foot “H” beam that weighs just under one ton. It likely fell from the North Tower above the 60th floor, according to experts. The ends of the beam which are an inch thick show the tearing of the massive steel.
Firefighter Brandon McCaughey, who went on the journey, said he felt a “feeling of pride and honor” when the piece was being moved from the Hangar 17. Mark Smith who also was there said he was “humbled” by the entire experience. Through a door in the hangar, a bike rack with five bicycles was visible. They were heavily damaged and stood in the same position as when the people who rode them that day to downtown Manhattan. Those individuals never again touched their bikes.
Paul Jr. from the Discovery Channel TV program Orange County Choppers joins Chili firefighters (l to r) Mark Smith, John Spaulding and Brandon McCaughey. Provided photoDuring the trek home, every stop for fuel drew on lookers. Cell phones were used to snap pictures and people asked questions. Everyone was noticably moved by the piece. One guy named Steve was a burner at the trade center recovery effort. He looked at the beam and described some of the reasons for marks on the beam itself, describing what it took to build it at first, and then, how it most likely came down and was cut. At one point, grease was needed for the trailer. At a Flying J truck stop a mechanic for the Canadian Pacific Railroad loaned us a grease gun. America is a generous place.
On the way home they stopped by Paul Jr. Designs to see if Paul would like to see the artifact, as he is building a World Trade Center chopper. The producer of the show Orange County Choppers introduced them to Paul Jr. who looked over the piece and talked with firefighters. They were also “on camera” for a possible upcoming episode.
The Chili FD will use the next year to design and construct a memorial to honor and never forget the 343 firefighters that perished that day, and also reflect on other firefighter line-of-duty deaths.
The steel beam was brought to Chili on a trailer from Cedar Creek Landscape and was removed from the trailer by Jim’s Service, both of Churchville. Citizens and firefighters alike have stopped by the firehouse to see the artifact. One woman said she felt the need to sit and pray while she reflected.
The tow truck operator, John Alexander, who is also a firefighter, said he was “honored to be a part of it.” His fire department in Brockport has a large monument that is used annually for a remembrance. He said “this evokes a lot of emotion” because of the strong connection to the 9/11/01 and the people it touches.
10/23/1
Clarkson uses grant to install solar panels
by Kristina Gabalski
A view of the interior of a rectifier panel. The circular object in the top compartment is a very heavy coil of copper that rectifies (converts) DC current generated by the solar cells to AC current. The sun will be helping to provide electricity to the Courthouse and Highway Department Garage in the Town of Clarkson thanks to recently installed solar panels.
The panels are up and running and are located on the roofs of both buildings, Supervisor Paul Kimball says.
Telephoto picture of the panelsThe project was facilitated by a grant from NYSERDA (New York State Energy Research and Development Authority) which paid for 90 percent of the $145,000 cost of the project, Kimball says. He notes that the final cost of the project came in significantly less than initial estimates.
Savings generated by the solar panels will pay back the town’s 10 percent of the installation costs in less than five years, Kimball says. He adds that without the grant it would have taken 25 years of savings to cover the expense.
Town of Clarkson goes greener
The Town of Clarkson has gone greener with the installation of solar panels, solar photovoltaic electric generating systems, on the roof of the Courthouse building and the Highway Garage building.
Secured with the help of two Energy Efficiency and Conservation Block Grants (EECBG) from the New York State Energy and Research Development Authority totaling $87,000; the town contributed $14,472 towards the project. The payback period is estimated to be seven years on the town’s contribution. Additional savings will come from feeding any excess electricity back to their supplier, National Grid.
Dave Goodwin, Clarkson Highway Superintendent, is shown, right, outside the Clarkson Court building; the solar panel array is the glossy area on the roof.The winning bidder for the project was earthsponse, out of Binghamton, NY; the actual installation was done by Ecodis, Inc., Brockport.
10/23/11
Riga Town Board adopts 2012 budget
Riga Town Board members adopted its 2012 budget at its regular meeting on October 12. The budget shows a reduction in spending of 19.75 percent and once again the town will remain tax free. Supervisor Bob Ottley said, “The savings in spending was due mainly to the recently adopted Host Community Agreement, which no longer requires the town to pay for trash pick-up and curbside recycling that the town residents have been receiving since 2005. This is a savings of $160,000 per year.”
Residents who are included in the new Water Benefit Area #1 also received good news, Ottley said in a press release. “With construction of the water project nearing completion, the town board moved to do the final piece of borrowing needed for the project. The final bond was issued on September 28, and the town received a rate of 4.25 percent for 30 years,” he stated. This concluded the total amount that the town was authorized to borrow. The combined rates that are locked in are equal to about 4.5 percent for 30 years, lower than the 6 percent for 34 years that was projected when the residents voted to approve the borrowing. The average residential property will save about $5,366 over the life of the loan, according to the press release. The low interest raes are a result of the town being able to present an excellent case on obtaining an AA-credit rating and the timing of the borrowing,” Councilman Brad O’Brocta stated in the prepared release.
According to elected officials, all town residents will benefit from the town not having to utilize the full amount of money that was authorized to be used from the Host Community Reserve Account (Landfill Revenue). “The total project cost appears to be running about $1 million less than the total projected cost,” Ottley stated in the press release.
The zero tax rate will continue and the payments for residents in Water Benefit Area #1 will be reflected in the 2012 tax bills, according to the press release.
Provided information
10/23/11
Two candidates on ballot for Hamlin supervisor post
by Kristina Gabalski
Tom Breslawski
Tom JensenTwo candidates are vying for the position of Hamlin Town Supervisor.
Thomas Breslawski, who has served for four years on the Hamlin Town Council is endorsed by the Republican, Conservative and Independence Parties.
Tom Jensen, who currently serves on the Hamlin Planning Board, has been endorsed by the Democratic, Working Families, and Liberty Parties and the Green Party of Monroe County.
The 58-year old Jensen is a lifelong resident of Hamlin and says he has regularly attended Hamlin Town Board and support board meetings since 2003.
He has been a member of the town’s Zoning Code Committee, Wind Tower Committee, and Playground Committee and is a past president of the Hamlin Volunteer Ambulance Corps.
Jensen and his wife, Karen, have two daughters and four grandchildren, and have both been regular participants and contributors to Hamlin’s annual Haunted House.
Jensen says he has served the town truthfully and fairly for all who came before the support boards he has served on. “I have sought to ensure that the codes are fair and represent the best interest of the town and its residents,” he says.
Regarding important issues facing the town, Jensen says the ongoing question of the fairness of the town re-assessment needs to be addressed and corrected. He says action also needs to be taken on the economic front.
“We have too many empty store fronts in Hamlin,” Jensen says. “More businesses are closing than are coming into town. We should be looking to encourage new business. This will bring valuable services and jobs for all of Hamlin.”
Planning for the future is also important, he notes. “We should be looking forward and anticipating the needs of our people for the next five to 10 years as well as the next generation.”
Jensen says he wants to open town government up to the people. “Information should be readily available so we all know what our town government is doing to spend tax money wisely and save money in the future,” he says. “Being able to look at a current or proposed budget, to see where the money comes from and what the money is used for is a right of every taxpayer. Not explaining the state numbering systems for income versus expense, or making people request specific documents should never happen.”
As supervisor, Jensen says his goal would be to see everyone is treated with respect and fairness when dealing with their government. “Town codes and laws are the same for everyone and should be handled that way,” he explains. “I will seek to bring in new businesses and create new jobs right here in Hamlin. I will push to see that Hamlin is seen as the place people want to be. By demonstrating that Hamlin has what people are looking for, we will encourage business and tourism. I will fight for every person in Hamlin to keep their taxes down and services steady.”
In addition, Jensen notes Hamlin has a long history of rural and agricultural beauty. “We are home to Hamlin Beach State Park, multiple town parks and the CCC/POW camp on Moscow Road. Our recreational opportunities are exceptional, but we have no plan to utilize them to the town’s advantage. We need to show people that Hamlin is where they want to visit and vacation.”
Council person Thomas Breslawski is also a lifelong resident of Hamlin, growing up on his family’s farm and graduating from Hilton High School in 1994.
During his four years on the Hamlin Town Board, Breslawski has served as liaison to the Hamlin Library and the Recreation Department. He worked to supervise the hiring process for the new Recreation Director and also worked closely with her and the Recreation Commission to double revenue for the department.
“The Recreation Director and I estimate that within two years, the department will be able to stand alone on its revenue,” he says.
Breslawski has also served as liaison to the Security Department, Parks and the Town Hall clerks. “This has allowed me to develop working relationships with both department heads and employees that will provide a seamless transition to supervisor,” he says.
Breslawski also served on the Conservation Board for two years, gaining knowledge of how the town’s support boards interact with each other and the problems and challenges they face, he says. He has been a six-year member of the Zoning Review Committee, seeking to update local laws and create new legislation when the need arises, he notes.
“I have worked as a volunteer for Hamlin Recreation’s Free Fishing Day, as well as for Volunteer Appreciation Night,” Breslawski adds. He has been a longtime volunteer for the Friends of the Hamlin Library group, helping with the annual Spaghetti Dinner and loading and unloading books for the annual Book Sale.
Breslawski says he has worked to maintain the town’s low tax rate during a time of cost increases for health care and energy. “I have worked with the Town Board to make changes to our employee health care plan, consolidated services such as the assessor’s office with other towns to save money, and searched for non-tax sources of revenue like the Coast Guard communication tower which was approved by the Town Board and will bring in over $19,000 annually to offset town taxes.”
The new state tax cap, the lack of growth in the town’s tax base and the challenge of how to balance potential growth with the desire of residents to remain rural are the most important issues facing the town, Breslawski says.
“I am the only candidate for supervisor who has a comprehensive understanding of our town budget,” Breslawski says. “Our budget can be managed with sound planning, such as my suggestion this year to increase our contingency account in anticipation of higher costs in several areas next year. Sound planning and seeking out opportunities to bring in non-tax revenue to offset taxes is vital to Hamlin’s fiscal future.”
By using zoning to encourage development in areas where utility services already exist, Breslawski says the town can preserve its rural and agricultural lands while still allowing for some increase in the tax base.
Breslawski says he wants to be supervisor because he loves the Town of Hamlin. “I remember the Hamlin that I grew up in and want to give the next generation the opportunity to grow up in an affordable rural town,” he says.
Breslawski adds that if elected, he would be the first town council person to transition to supervisor in nearly 20 years.
10/23/11
Mission statement would better define local history museum
by Kristina Gabalski
Professors in the Anthropology Department at The College at Brockport are asking Brockport Village Board members to consider their invitation to help in the pursuit of a newly developed mission statement for the Emily L. Knapp Museum and Library of Local History located at 49 State Street in the village.
Assistant Professors Neal Keating and Jennifer Ramsay made a presentation to village board members during the October 11 regular meeting of the board.
Keating and Ramsay brought trustees up to date on a project that began in the fall of 2010 with undergraduate student volunteers working to assess the museum’s collections.
“We were immediately impressed by the breadth, scope and scale of the collection,” Keating said. “It’s rather extraordinary.”
He explained that a grant was obtained from the college to purchase a state of the art cataloguing program to assist in the work of listing tens of thousands of objects in the museum’s collection.
As a result of the project, Keating said the college has developed a museology course. This semester, 20 students are enrolled and are involved in research projects based on the needs of the museum in such areas as strategic planning, fundraising, community awareness and documenting the collection.
A mission statement has also been drawn up and Keating and Ramsay presented it to trustees.
It states: “The Emily L. Knapp Museum is an educational institution dedicated to collecting, preserving and providing access to the heritage and history of Brockport.”
“We are extending an invitation to the village and college to join the Anthropology Department and the museum board in the pursuit of the new museum mission,” Keating said. “We hope you will consider the invitation.”
10/23/11
Westside's first Modern Roundabout Intersection
As part of the ongoing road reconstruction project in the Village of Brockport the intersection of Route 19 and West/East Avenue is closed to all traffic through Sunday, October 23.
Crews worked through the week to construct the westside’s first Modern Roundabout intersection to replace the former traffic signal.
The roundabout features four entrances and is designed to force lower speeds and eliminate left-hand turns, reducing accident frequency and severity. Photos above taken October 17 by Rick Nicholson.
10/23/11
Feature Stories - Week of October 23, 2011
A chronicle of hope
by Maggie Fitzgibbon
Terry WerthIt was a day that will forever be etched on her soul. May 8, 2009. It was the day Terry Werth was diagnosed with breast cancer.
On a beautiful spring day, Werth set out for routine dental cleaning where she happened to run into her radiologist. The two had a brief conversation that led to an appointment for that afternoon for Werth’s annual mammogram. By that afternoon, Werth knew she had cancer.
“My first thought was how my life crashed and burned in an instant and I asked myself - how was I going to tell my husband and kids? My mind raced as I wondered if I would ever see another Christmas,” Werth remembers.
The next day she knew it was triple negative breast cancer-stage III.
“I immediately thought of my grandmother who had undergone two radical mastectomies,” Werth said.
Her treatment would consist of a mastectomy, and the removal of 49 lymph nodes – nine being positive. She underwent eight rounds of chemotherapy and 25 radiation treatments. And during this process, Werth used a familiar outlet, her writing.
A writer by trade and a published author, Werth has always turned to the written word as a way to channel events and emotions.
“Writing has been a way for me to address the inner search for answers,” Werth explained.
Teresa Schreiber Werth is a cancer survivor whose most recent publication, Pink on Pink, evolved from her experiences in dealing with the disease. Provided photosAnd as she journeyed through her diagnosis, treatment and recovery from breast cancer, Werth put pen to paper and guided those thoughts and emotions into a book called Pink on Pink. “I wrote where ever I was and used whatever I could get my hands on, slips of paper, receipts, even napkins,” Werth said. This newly released paperback, a collection of poetry and prose, along with photos taken by her husband, Don Werth, tells her poignant story.
One of the first stories in her book tells of her grandmother, a woman whose own breast cancer had an overwhelming impression upon Werth. She was diagnosed with breast cancer in 1956, and underwent two radical mastectomies. This remarkable woman lived to be 90 years old. As a youngster, Werth spent nearly every summer in Florida with her grandparents. These were the summer days she lived for. But seeing her grandmother’s scars left a mark on Werth that would foreshadow her
own life.
One of the most touching stories in her book tells about her grandson, Trevor. In 2007, Trevor was asked to be in a wedding. His younger cousin was also asked to be in the wedding but was very afraid. Trevor bought a bravery bracelet for his young cousin to wear to give her courage to walk down the aisle for this wedding. Two years later and the night before Werth’s surgery, Trevor surprised his grandmother with a gift.
“Trevor said, ‘Here Nana, this is for you, it’s your bravery bracelet.’ I wore it to every doctor’s appointment, and every chemotherapy and radiation treatment session. It became part of me, and it was magical,” Werth explained.
As Werth journeyed through her treatment and recovery, she learned much about herself.
“It was not a time to be a martyr. I knew the importance of taking care of myself. It was important to let people do for me and my husband. It was good for me and good for them. We were surrounded by an army of family and friends who were our greatest supporters,” she said.
Werth’s poem titled “No Oars” tells of her feelings as she dealt with her cancer, feelings of being adrift in an angry sea, grasping for oars but unable to find any. Werth read this poem at an event in September called One Square Mile of Hope, an annual event that celebrates breast cancer awareness. At this event, 1,925 kayaks and canoes were launched in Fourth Lake in Inlet, NY in an attempt for the Guinness Book of World Records® Title for World’s Largest Floating Raft. “Sports Illustrated” magazine published an aerial photo of this event in its October 3 issue.
“I was so honored to be a part of this celebration and most importantly, I paddled a kayak for the first time into this circle of survivors,” Werth explained.
These last two years have been a time of self-revelation for Werth.
“When something threatens your life, it escalates your awareness to your own mortality,” she said. January 21, 2012 will mark two years from the end of her treatment. She currently has no evidence of breast cancer.
Werth has many hopes for her book, Pink on Pink.
“My book helped me to gain perspective on my life experience and makes me feel hopeful. I hope this book becomes a template for others going through a life-changing event,” Werth said.
Pink on Pink is available at The Unique Shop and Tops Supermarket in Spencerport, Lift Bridge Book Shop in Brockport, or by contacting Werth at terry.werth@gmail.com.
For more information about Werth and her other books, log on to her website at www.TeresaWerth.com.
10/23/11
Senior Citizen Police Academy
Officer Anthony Messura
Deputies John Whitehair and Mike MartinTwenty seven seniors in the Hilton-Parma area are spending time every Thursday in the Senior Citizen Police Academy program. According to organizer Tracy LaFountain, Hilton-Parma Recreation, the nine week session gives insight on how the Sheriff’s department operates. “It’s exciting for the seniors to get a behind-the-scenes look. They appreciate the honesty of the police officers in answering any of their questions,” LaFountain said.
These pictures were taken during the 4th week of the program when all of the police units came to the Hilton DPW area to present talks on their function in the overall operation and a look at their equipment. Special units included Crime Scene, Mounted Police, Scuba, K-9, Swat, Marine Rescue and Critical Incident Response teams.
Officer Pete Johnstone and SammyOfficer Peter Johnstone talked about the role the mounted police play, both as a criminal deterrent and public communication. His horse, Sammy, is nine years old and is a great companion as they travel to different locations every day to talk to people and provide visibility of police in the area.
Deputies John Whitehair and Mike Martin informed the audience about the Marine Rescue Team efforts.
Officer Anthony Messura talked about the features of a bullet-proof vest and the eight pound inserts that provide protection for SWAT team members. He stated that a new 1 1/2 pound insert will soon be used.
Photographs by Walter Horylev
10/23/11
Friends of the Library learn about the life of a Civil War soldier
More than 50 people were on hand for the Friends of the Library meeting at the Ogden Farmers’ Library Monday, October 17 to listen to Dave George, reenactor with the 140th New York Volunteer Infantry, talk about life as a Civil War soldier.
He explained elements of his dress and equipment along with the historical aspects of the 140th New York Volunteer Infantry from Rochester, NY during the Civil War.
Dave George also talked about his passion about Civil War history, how the war between the states affected the area 150 years ago and what the war’s impact means today.
Photograph by Dave Knox
10/23/11
Sports News - Week of October 23, 2011
BROCKPORT
Blue Devils look to clinch
by Warren Kozireski
Senior outside hitter Eric Brawn was dominant with 24 kills and five aces to lead Brockport to a 25-15, 26-28, 25-18, 25-15 boys volleyball victory over Hilton. The win improved the first place Blue Devils’ record to 8-1 in league play and well within reach of clinching the regular season divisional crown.
In game one, the visiting Cadets closed to within 10-8 on a block by Jonah Matula and a kill from AJ Davids before Brockport outscored them 15-7 the rest of the way.
Game two was a back-and-forth affair that Hilton ultimately led 24-21. But the Blue Devils got three consecutive kills from Brawn to tie the game 24-24 before Cadet junior Nick Hagen had consecutive kills to clinch the game and tie the match 1-1.
Brawn knocked down nine of his 24 kills in game three while teammate Kevin Carges added a pair and Bryan Warner added a block for another point in the Blue Devils win.
Cody Gould had two kills and a block while setter Cody Didas added an ace for the Blue Devils to finish off the match.
Senior libero Shane Chichester led all defenders with 25 digs while Didas finished with 31 assists and Carges seven kills and eight digs for Brockport.
Davids led the Cadets with 14 kills, Sean Conte had eight kills and six blocks, Hagen six kills with five blocks and Kyle Donovan 29 assists for Hilton.
10/23/11
SPENCERPORT
Walk for Exercise program offered at three Spencerport schools
Canal View, Munn, and Taylor Elementary Schools will be open for registered district residents to walk in the building hallways between the hours of 4 and 7 p.m. on days that school is in session, beginning October 25 until May 25, 2012.
Registration will be held October 25 and 26 from 4 to 6 p.m. and October 27 from noon to 2 p.m. in the Volunteer Office at Terry A. Taylor School, 399 Ogden Parma Town Line Road. To register, enter by the west door, Entrance 6, and follow the signs.
For information call the Volunteer Office, 349-5682, between the hours of 8:30 a.m. and 4 p.m.
Provided information
10/23/11
School News - Week of October 23, 2011
AREA
Districts team up for professional day
With resources scarce and expectations increasing, administrators in small school districts across New York state are struggling to maintain necessary professional development activities for their teachers. In Genesee County, this requires creativity and collaboration among several districts, according to representatives of the Byron-Bergen School District.
During this month’s Superintendent’s Conference Day, educators from the Byron-Bergen, Elba, and Oakfield-Alabama School Districts worked together with specialists from the Genesee Valley Educational Partnership to translate information on the New York State Core Curriculum Content Standards into their daily practice.
Rich Walker is the sole technology teacher at Byron-Bergen High School. “I am very isolated (as a high school department of one),” he added. “It is very helpful and rewarding to meet and collaborate with other technology teachers from different school districts experiencing the same circumstances. I was able to talk to other teachers to find out what their curricula are like. I was able to share ideas with them. I learned more about the G.C.C. Tech Wars. It would be nice to collaborate with them on an annual basis.”
The day concluded with a program on bullying prevention in secondary schools.
Area schools have also joined forces to provide better educational opportunities. Elba and Oakfield-Alabama students take Advanced Placement courses together, and Byron-Bergen and Elba students play four interscholastic sports on combined teams.
Provided information
10/23/11
BROCKPORT
Vote for Brockport High School Choir Video
The Brockport High School Choir, under the direction of Liz Banner, entered a video contest sponsored by FOX and the television show “Glee.”
In the video, students are singing the alma mater in an American History class during Homecoming 2011.
Winning schools can earn up to $50,000 for their music programs. Voting is open until November 7 and votes may be cast daily. To view the video, visit the www.bcs1.org.
Shown left, the BHS Choir on Blue and White Day for Homecoming 2011.
Provided photo
10/23/11
OMS students take “A Long Walk to Water”
Six graders on team 6-2 took their own "long walk to water" to put themselves in the shoes of children their age in Sudan who walk great distances for water. After reading Linda Sue Park’s book A Long Walk to Water, sixth graders on team 6-2 walked to Corbett Park from the A.D. Oliver Middle School on October 17 to fill gallon jugs with water. To get an idea of how children in Africa feel, many made the one mile trek back to school carrying the jugs on their heads.
“It was pretty hard to walk that far with water on our heads,” said Juliana Viola. “They (children in Africa) walk miles for water and we just have to take a few steps to get to a sink.”
All students in the district are learning about the serious problems associated with the lack of drinking water in many African villages. The library department is working with teachers, principals and the Brockport community on a year-long initiative to raise global awareness through reading.
Molly Falkenstein and Josh Keenan fill their jugs at the pond. Provided photosKindergarten through 4th grade students are reading, One Hen, All the Water in the World, One Well and other grade level appropriate books. Students in grades 5-12 are reading Linda Sue Park’s book A Long Walk to Water, a poignant, true story about one of the lost boys of Sudan, Salva Dut, who ultimately settles in Rochester. The Newbery award-winning author visited the district on October 19 to talk about the book and the writing process.
In a collaborative effort with many community members, including The College at Brockport, Seymour Library, Brockport PTSA and various business and service organizations, the district hopes to support global neighbors by raising $5,000 to sponsor a well in southern Sudan through Salva Dut’s organization, Water for Sudan.
Community members wishing to contribute directly towards a well may write a check payable to Brockport High School and send it to any building librarian or Kathy Jaccarino, Brockport High School, 40 Allen Street, Brockport, NY 14420. All proceeds will go toward funding a well in southern Sudan. Additional information about fundraising efforts can be found on the district’s website at www.bcs1.org.
Sixth-grader Dan Foley felt sympathy for those in Africa after he read the book and listened to Park’s presentation.
“I want to raise money and I am going to set a high goal,” Dan said. “I know my family and neighbors will help.”
10/23/11
HILTON
Hilton Homecoming Parade features “Movies We Love”
Merton Williams Middle School's "Pirates of the Caribbean" Float. Provided photoHilton Homecoming and Spirit Week, Pep Rally, Parade and Football Game culminated Friday, October 14, when Hilton schools and community celebrated with a parade down Main Street.
Coach Rich Lipani’s Cadets shocked Gates Chili with a last-minute win, 35-28.
The parade began at Quest Elementary and ended at LeBeau Field. Spirit Week was held all week culminating in a Pep Rally in the High School Gym. The parade’s theme for 2011 was “Movies We Love” and student participants from each Hilton school were decked out to support their favorite. Students from each school chose the following: Village Elementary - Disney, Northwood - Toy Story, Quest - Ghostbusters, Merton Williams - Pirates of the Caribbean and the High School - Harry Potter.
The parade included some of Hilton’s local dignitaries, organizations, alumni and the Hilton Marching Band. “The Hilton tradition continues as we celebrate our community, Hilton Athletics and our schools,” said Hilton High School Assistant Principal and Coordinator Scott Wilson.
10/23/11
SPENCERPORT
Canal View Elementary School sets out to break record for jumping jacks
Students in this first grade class did their jumping jacks set to music. Provided photoStudents at Canal View Elementary participated in the National Geographic Kids magazine initiative to break the Guinness World Records® title for the most people doing jumping jacks in a 24-hour period. To break the record, more than 20,000 people worldwide needed to complete one minute of jumping jacks within a 24-hour period between October 11 and 12.
Fourth graders in Alissa Dwyer’s class coordinated and monitored the schoolwide event, which included 484 jumpers.
National Geographic posted this challenge on Twitter, and my students wanted to get our school involved. Students in my class planned the event, wrote the announcements, and acted as facilitators in each classroom. It was a great opportunity to remind our students about being active, and staying healthy. We will know in early November if we beat the world record.”
Provided information
10/23/11
Spencerport seeks volunteers for school budget focus group
The Spencerport Central School District Board of Education will convene a Budget Focus Group to provide personal perspectives to members of the board and Superintendent Michael Crumb through the 2012-13 budget development process.
The Budget Focus Group (BFG) volunteers will meet six times from 6 to 7 p.m. on January 24, February 14, February 28, March 13*, March 27, and April 3 at the District Office building, 71 Lyell Avenue. On those same evenings, BFG members are also welcome to remain for the board meetings in which the budget sections are reviewed. *This meeting is only the BFG attending the regularly scheduled board meeting at 7 p.m.
Those interested in joining the Budget Focus Group can call 349-5101 or email the superintendent at mcrumb@spencerportschools.org. For more information on the charge of the BFG, please visit, www.spencerportschools.org>budget 2012-13.
Provided information
10/23/11
Obituaries - Week of October 23, 2011
Death Notices for the Week of October 23, 2011
BROCKPORT
•Kientz, Herman, Age 81, October 12, 2011. Survived by wife Geraldine Monacelli Kientz; three children; three step-children; grandchildren; two brothers; one sister.
Services and interment will be held in Michigan.
CHURCHVILLE
•Shelton, Marion H., October 13, 2011 at the age of 47. Marion was predeceased by her father, Charles Fletcher. She is survived by her mother, Helen Fletcher; her sisters, Kathy (LeRoy) Earsing and Carol Fletcher; her nieces and nephews, LeRoy, Samantha and KayLee Earsing, Jessica (Michael) Denning, David (Roseline) Nesbitt and Jody Townley; brother-in-law, Michael Nesbitt; four great nieces and one great nephew; many aunts, uncles, cousins and dear friends.
Funeral Services were held October 18 at Walker Brothers Funeral Home, Inc., Churchville. Interment, Creekside Cemetery, Churchville. Contributions can be made to Churchville Ambulance or Union Congregational UCC of Churchville in her memory.
•McCormick, Nadine Frances “Mimma”, October 18, 2011 at the age of 59. Nadine is survived by her husband, Matthew J. McCormick; her parents, William and Josephine Barker; children, Dina Bridget (Allan) Nowak (Weingartner), Lawrence Patrick (Kim) Weingartner; her grandchildren and the center of her universe, Ashlee Nichole and Jonathan Allan Nowak, Tyler Lawrence Weingartner; siblings, Susan (Phil) Jones, Jo Ann Barker; her niece Julie Barker and her son Julian.
A Funeral Mass was celebrated October 22 at St. Vincent DePaul Church, Churchville. Interment Creekside Cemetery. Contributions can be made to Livingston County Center for Nursing and Rehab., 11 Murray Hill Drive, Mt. Morris, New York 14510 in her memory.
GATES
•Mastrella, Angelo “Hick”, October 17, 2011, age 88. Angelo is survived by his loving wife, Louise, of 67 years; children, Larry (Joan), Nick; grandchildren, Larry, Brian, Amanda and Max; sisters, Anne (Joe) Digiovanni, Francis (Joe) DeGrazia, Christine (Richard) Prince, Mary (Victor) Tantalo; sister-in-law, Rose Mastrella; many nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by brothers, Pasquale “Pat”, Theodore, Louis, Frank; sister, Colombia; brothers & sisters-in-law, Domenic (Nina), Ralph (Mary), Anthony (Betty), Frank (Helen), Mike (Mary) Mastromatteo, Teresa (James) Keating, Marie (Michael) Sorocthy, Vic Tantalo, Joe DeGrazia, Lebra (Nick) Bianchi. He was an infantry Army soldier in WWII serving in Europe. Angelo was a milkman for many years for Jefferson Dairy and retired from Pfaudler Corp.
His Funeral Mass was celebrated October 21 at St. Helen’s Church, Gates. Interment, Holy Sepulchre Cemetery. Donations can be made to Aquinas Institute of Rochester, 1127 Dewey Avenue, Rochester, NY 14613 in his memory.
HILTON
•Brennan, Marie S., On October 12, 2011. Survived by five sons, Stephen, Andrew, Peter, Gregory and Thomas Brennan; three grandchildren.
A Mass of Christian Burial was said October 17 at St. Leo’s Church, Hilton. Interment, Holy Sepulchre Cemetery.
•Henry, Viola C. “Vi”, Suddenly October 12, 2011 at age 84. Viola was predeceased by her husband, Jack W. Henry. She is survived by her three sons, Robert (Jean) and their children, Robert and Phillip, William (Linette) and children, Dawn, Nicole and Tresa, Jack D. (Maria) and children, Scott, Jason, Rachel, Jonathan; one daughter Patricia (John) Neubauer and children, Chrissie, Joe, Tim, Kelly; great-grandchildren; sister, Arline (William) Shaw; several nieces and nephews.
Funeral Services were held October 17 at Bartolomeo & Perotto Funeral Home, Inc., Greece. Interment, Falls Cemetery.
•Keller, Dr. Charles R., Known by everyone as Tim, survived by his sons, Chris (Lynda), Jon (Claire), Nat (Pam) and Toby (Karen); six grandchildren, Sol (Corrina), Terra (Calvin), Owen (Itala), Elliott, Liam and Aiden; two great-grandchildren, Andrew and Vera Pearl and one on the way. Predeceased by his wife, Anne, in 2006, Dr. Keller was a longtime doctor in Hilton, coming aboard to partner with his father after stints in the Navy and the Air Force in the 1950s.
A Memorial Service will be announced at a later date.
•Lenhart, William R., October 16, 2011 at age 37. Survived by his wife, Jennifer; daughter Kaylyn; son, Kyle; his father William C. Lenhart; sister, Karen (James) Demchock; two nieces, Madeline and Marissa Demchock; several aunts, uncles and cousins. He was predeceased by his mother, Katharine Lenhart.
Private Service and Interment. Donations can be made to 21st Century Oncology, 3210 Fruitville Road, Sarasota, Florida, 34237 c/o Dr. Larry Silverman in memory of William R. Lenhart.
•Scriber, Lawrence A., October 17, 2011, age 84. Predeceased by his wife, Lena and daughter, Debra Neri. Survived by his daughters, Wendy Scriber and Patrice Kopitzki; brother, David Scriber; sister, Gwen McClean; several grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Larry was a U.S. Navy Veteran.
A Graveside Service was held October 22 at Parma Union Cemetery. Donations can be made to Mt. Carmel House in his memory.
KENT
•Clark, Sharon Mae Anderson, died peacefully October 18, 2011. Sharon was a trainer and a member of the harness racing community. She was predeceased by her husband Eugene Francis Clark. She is survived by her children: Kelly Clark, Mark (Noreen) Clark, Cindy (Butch) Christ, Linda (Jack) Schaefer, David Clark, Eugene (Beverly) Clark Jr.; 18 grandchildren; 14 great-grandchildren; and a close family friend Dean Haase.
A Mass of Christian Burial was said October 20 at St. Mark’s R.C. Church-Kendall. Interment at the convenience of the family. Contributions can be made to St. Jude Childrens Hospital, 262 Danny Thomas Place, Memphis, TN 38105 in her memory.
OGDEN
•Scheid, Donna J. (Breiner), of Prattsburgh, formerly of Ogden, died October 17, 2011 at age 55. Donna is predeceased by her brother, Peter Breiner; sister, Suzie Breiner; brother, Ed Breiner and sister, Judy Perry. She is survived by her husband, Peter Scheid; children, Jenna, Patrick, Emily and Haley; brother, Dutch (Sandy) Breiner; sister, Linda (Mark) Eagan; brother-in-law, Keith Perry; many beloved nieces and nephews; dear friends.
Her Funeral Mass was celebrated October 21 at Spiritus Christi Church, Rochester. Interment will be held privately. Donations can be made to Camp Good Days and Special Times (CampGoodDays.org) in her memory.
SPENCERPORT
•Palmer, Frank J., September 20, 2011. Survived by his wife, Diane (Mroczek) Palmer; daughters, Eileen Palmer and Kathie (Bob) Mariano; granddaughter, Halie Mariano; sisters, Barbara (Palmer) Masseau, Ann (Ken) Klump; brother-in-law, EdMroczek; dear friend, Tammy Knittel; several nieces, nephews, cousins and dear friends. Frank was the former owner/operator of Palmer Cleaners in Spencerport.
Services were held October 22 at Walker Brothers Funeral Home, Spencerport. Donations can be made to a charity of one’s choice in his memory.
ARCHIVES - WEEK OF OCTOBER 16, 2011
Local News - Week of October 16, 2011
New owners of Spencerport Plaza support canalside development ideas
by Kristina Gabalski
Apartments and retail space in a three-story building that would be constructed at the east end of the Plaza according to a site plan created for the south side of the Erie Canal in Spencerport. Copies of the proposed development plan can be viewed at the Spencerport VIllage Offices, 27 West Avenue in the village.The Village of Spencerport, the Town of Ogden, an architect, an engineer and the new owners of the Spencerport Village Plaza are joining forces in a proposed plan for development along the south side of the Erie Canal.
The proposal that is just in the beginning stages, includes residential and retail development in the plaza and park and trail development along the canal.
Brothers David and Al Pelusio of Pelusio Holdings purchased the Plaza last spring and are amazed at how quickly ideas for development have taken off.
David says that as he walked the Village Plaza site, he envisioned new construction that would house residential and retail space overlooking the canal at the east end of the lot and was surprised to find plans for such a development already exist.
“It all happened so fast,” David says.
Spencerport Mayor Joyce Lobene says she showed David plans that Spencerport resident and architect Richard LaCroix had done for the plaza a couple of years ago.
“He (David) immediately contacted Dick and together they came up with a remarkable plan for the Plaza’s future,” Mayor Lobene says.
“His enthusiasm and ability to look to the future are remarkable,” Mayor Lobene says of David. “The community is fortunate to have David and Al Pelusio as the new owners of the Plaza.”
An access road just east of the Spencerport Federal Credit Union Building and the existing professional building across the road would lead to a parking area along the canal. "It would complete the trail begun at the Trolley Depot and Visitors Center to a point that would end at Lyell Avenue, just before Hickory Hollow," Spencerport Mayor Joyce Lobene says. Provided plan The proposed plan includes 100 medium to high-end apartments and retail space in a three-story building that would be constructed at the east end of the Plaza. The first floor would house retail including a hardware store that would be visible to patrons entering the plaza, David says.
Apartments would be located on the second and third floors, the second floor being level with the bank of the canal. The development might also eventually include a pool/club house and other amenities for residents, David says.
“I envision it as a mini Corn Hill,” he explains.
And that’s not all. In addition to the plans of Pelusio and LaCroix, Kris Schultz of Schultz Associates Engineering in Spencerport has presented both the village and town with plans for the continued development of the Heritage Trail adjacent to the Plaza.
“It would complete the trail begun at the Trolley Depot and Visitors Center to a point that would end at Lyell Avenue, just before Hickory Hollow,” Lobene says.
She says the park would contain amenities for both Spencerport and Ogden residents.
“Dave Pelusio then contacted Kris (Schultz) and before you know it, the LaCroix plan for the Plaza and the Heritage Trail Park plan designed by Kris Schultz were coordinated into a beauty of a plan that benefits the village, town and the plaza,” Lobene says. “At this point to me, it looks like a plan made in heaven, however, it will take time to figure just how to accomplish all of this.”
Ogden Supervisor Gay Lenhard says the town is looking forward to working with the village regarding the trail and prospective park in the town.
“The three-to-four acre parcel in the town that has the potential of being a canal-side park belongs to the county,” Supervisor Lenhard says. “However, I have made an inquiry requesting the county turn it over to the town for a park. I have been informed that it is optimistically working its way through various county departments.”
Lenhard notes the project is at the very beginning stages and the town will start by applying for grant money.
Mayor Lobene says the village is also seeking grant money. “Residents of the village can rest assured that raising taxes to pay for our share is not an option,” she said. “We will try for a grant and would not consider completing the project until one was available to us.”
Kris Schultz says the trail and park project would open up all canal frontage for use. He says the linear strip of land is about one mile long. The plans include lighting, additional parking, drainage and significant improvements like enclosed pavilions and restroom facilities in the section located in the town.
Schultz says items like benches and landscaping would add the finishing touch.
The extended trail and park could be a site to host “town and village festivals like Christmas on the Canal and Canal Days,” Schultz says. “It would be a natural extension to take those festivals right down to the canal.”
He also notes its the kind of project that is tangible and “will be there for generations to come.”
The area has great potential, Schultz says. “It’s amazing how many people walk the canal.” He adds that once brush is cleared, the area will be opened up and people will be able to see the canal and boats passing through.
David Pelusio says he is working to have electric wires running along the canal bank moved to help facilitate park development. He adds that grants are available to help his business cover those kinds of costs.
Work could start on the village end of the trail as soon as next year, says Kris Schultz.
“Within a year, we will have some significant improvements complete,” he says. “It’s exciting to be at this point and we are doing what we can to get funding.”
Schultz’s site plans for the trail and park are available for viewing at the Village Office.
New businesses in village
On another positive note, two new businesses are coming to the village, according to Lobene.
Dollar Tree will be located in the entire east corner of the building that houses Tops and Rite Aide in the Village Plaza.
“I could not be more pleased,” Lobene said. “This type of store was something the community requested in the survey done last year for our Village Comprehensive Plan.”
Yaeger, Treviso & Associates, an established Webster accounting, consulting and tax service firm is opening a west side office in the Spencerport Professional Building at 129 South Union Street.
“This is a great opportunity to meet with our existing clients on the west side and I am excited to grow our west side clientele,” Yaeger, Treviso & Associates CPA John H. Keele says. “We picked a great place to move.”
Lobene sums it all up like this: “The coming of Tops has done so much for us, both our residents and businesses. The Dollar Tree coming will add another element of success and the future plans which the Pelusios have for the Plaza and that the village and town have for the Canal Trail will be the icing on the cake.”
10/16/11
Roundabout work requires road closure
by Kristina Gabalski
The intersection of Main Street (Route 19) and East and West Avenues in the Village of Brockport will be closed from Saturday, October 15 to Sunday, October 23 as part of the construction of a new roundabout.
Brockport Mayor Connie Castaneda reported on the closure during the October 11 regular meeting of the Village Board.
The roundabout is part of the New York State Department of Transportation’s Main Street/Route 19 reconstruction project.
In other business, village trustees created a new Ad-Hoc Committee on Housing.
Trustee Carol Hannan, who proposed creation of the committee, said the committee will “protect, preserve and enhance this asset (housing) with a reasoned and thoughtful plan(s).”
She read from the village’s current Comprehensive Plan. The Plan’s overall goals call for the village to establish a housing committee.
The proposal adopted states the committee will investigate multiple aspects of current and future housing needs along with methods of protecting and enhancing the unique character of the village’s historical neighborhoods.
“It will assess, for example, the variety and location of historical architecture, determine a healthy and stable ratio of owner-occupied to rental housing, and recommend options for future development/re-development based on projected housing needs,” the proposal states.
Trustees unanimously passed the proposal creating the committee.
Mayor Connie Castaneda told the board she was not opposed to forming the committee, but said trustees should keep in mind bigger problems and challenges facing the village. She told Trustee Hannan that “any and all recommendations need to come before the board.”
Trustee Hannan also proposed a formal complaint form for issues regarding code enforcement be placed on the village’s website.
The proposal passed unanimously.
Trustee Hannan said residents can still call 311 to file a complaint or they can choose to utilize the new online form, or do both.
Three other proposals brought forth by Hannan were tabled by the village board.
A proposal to lower the fee schedule for boats stopping at the Welcome Center on the Erie Canal was tabled to allow for more information to be gathered.
Another proposal to establish a new annual $50 residential rental registration fee was also tabled.
Hannan told the board it was reasonable to expect landlords to pay an additional fee to mitigate the expenses of code enforcement and to help the village meet the new two percent property tax cap. She noted the cities of Troy and Syracuse have yearly fees of $150 per rental property.
The measure was tabled when confusion arose over whether the fee would be per rental property or per rental unit.
Also tabled was a proposal by Hannan that would have posted a thank-you/ feedback letter on the village’s website for residents who have filed code enforcement related complaints.
Hannan said the move would encourage feedback and help the village assess customer satisfaction by having residents rate the code enforcement office’s response to concerns and also give residents a chance to provide comments and suggestions.
The measure was tabled when Mayor Connie Castaneda said she would like the opportunity for herself and the village manager to meet with the code enforcement officer to see what he is already using to gather feedback. Trustee Scott Hunsinger also pointed out that the proposal should be brought forth as a recommendation to the mayor. Trustee Hunsinger also suggested that any feedback should not go to the code enforcement officer directly, but perhaps to someone like the village manager.
10/16/11
New village manager reports to board
by Kristina Gabalski
The Village of Brockport’s new Manager/Treasurer gave his first report during the Village Board’s regular meeting on October 11.
Michael Giardino told trustees his goal is to be well prepared and brief in his reports. He said he will be “working to make up for lost time,” and to remedy the issues at hand.
Giardino said he grew up in the City of Rochester, in the Charlotte neighborhood. He has a bachelor of science degree in meteorology from The College at Brockport and recently retired after serving 26 years in the U.S. Navy.
Giardino said he served as a Navy helicopter pilot and most recently was second in command at the Naval base in Key West, Florida. He said he was at the Pentagon on September 11, 2001 and also served in Afghanistan.
Giardino noted that there are many similarities between the workings of a military base and a municipality.
“It was excellent preparation,” Giardino said, “I gained a great deal of perspective.”
He also thanked the Village Board and the selection committee for the “professionalism they displayed” during the interview and hiring process and the village staff and community members for their warm welcome.
In other business, trustees voted to dissolve the village’s Ad-Hoc Committee which was created to study the feasibility of establishing a village court.
Committee Chair Scott Hunsinger requested the move during his report, saying he would look for “trustees’ help in going forward.”
Trustee Carol Hannan said creating a village court is a complex issue and that the village board has “an obligation to continue to study it.”
Trustee Kent Blair said a re-evaluation of the court issue is a “step in the right direction.”
10/16/11
Spencerport roadway work continues
Lyell Avenue was closed for several days last week as the conduit that carries Nothrup Creek under the road was completely replaced.
Villager Construction crews have been working on various aspects of the Lyell Avenue reconstruction process which began this past summer with the removal of many trees along the street.
The project is to be completed next year but road closures are not expected to be necessary, 
though one way traffic in work zones may be needed from time to time.
Photography by David Knox
10/16/11
Nominations invited for Spencerport Area C of C awards
The Spencerport Area Chamber of Commerce is accepting nominations for its 2011 awards, which will be presented at a special dinner on Friday, January 27, 2012 at the Plantation Party House.
The awards are the Clyde W. Carter Citizen of the Year, the Business Person of the Year and the Civic Beautification Award.
To be considered, the nominee(s) for the Clyde W. Carter Citizen of the Year Award must have been a resident of the Ogden-Spencerport area including the 14559 zip code area in southern Parma for at least 10 years and have a history of community activity dating back at least five years. Also, the nominee must not have received this award previously.
To be considered for the Business Person of the Year, the nominee(s) must own or operate a business in the Ogden-Spencerport area as previously described. The nominee must have had an active history in the business community for the previous five years and can only receive this award one time.
To be considered for the Civic Beautification Award, the nominee(s) property must be in the Ogden-Spencerport area as described above, although property owner need not be a resident of the Ogden-Spencerport area. The project to be considered must have been completed and must be a new or renovated property. Non-profit organizations and municipal governments may be considered for this award.
Past recipients of the Citizen of the Year Award are: Cosmo Morabito (1969); Mary Dishaw (1970); Dr. Knox Brittain (1971); Patricia Brueckner Cleary (1972); William Farnsworth (1973); William Munn (1974); Leon Roets (1975); Gay and Don Lenhard (1976); William Lessord (1977); Ralph Serafine (1978); Helen (Betty) Spencer (1983); Edward Nau (1988); Fr. Robert Winterkorn (1989); William Parkinson (1990); Richard DuBois (1991); Maureen and Glenn Granger (1992); Sgt. Dale Barton (1993); Clyde W. Carter (1994); Alvin “Curly” Zarnstorff (1995); Bill and Jane Sweetland (1996); Donald and Eileen Magin (1997); Joyce Lobene (1998); Richard McQuilkin (1999); Thomas Friedo (2000); Ralph Pembroke (2001); Judy Cole (2002); Thomas Vandertang (2003), Patricia Uttaro and Dennis Pelletier (2004); Bernard Cubitt and Lewis “Bud” Nichols (2005); Jeff and Julie Tewksbury (2006), Francis Maier (2007), Geoff Feltner (2008) Sandie Ville (2009) and Doreen Castano (2010).
Past recipients of the Business Person of the Year Award are: Richard Tallman, Sr. (1992); Keith Ryan (1993); Ginny Swarthout (1994); John Page (1995); Maxine Davison Singer (1996); Richard and Carole Palmer (1997); John Hover (1998); Fred Holbrook (1999); Bill and Ann Hill & Bob Quataert (2000); Joseph Peworchik (2001); Michael D’Angelo Jr. (2002); William Bleier (2003), Tim & Joann Carr (2004); James Barton (2005); Dave Resch (2006), John McGrath (2007), David Wohlers (2008), Glynne & Kris Schultz (2009) and Tops Friendly Markets (2010).
Past recipients of the Civic Beautification Award are: Spencerport Pharmacy (1988); Caldwell Manufacturing Co., Village Square and Cosgrove Jr. High School (1989); Walker Brothers Funeral Home and Village Woods (1990); Vantage Point (1991); Spencerport Family Restaurant, Ogden Community Center and Boy Scout Troop #165 (1992); Pineway Ponds Park (1993); Earthborn Builders, Inc. and Stoffel & Company, CPA, PC (1994); Rohrbach’s Brewing Co. (1995); John and Michelle Soldi (1996); Cardinal Landscape (1997); Gary Inzana (1998); Heritage Furniture (1999); Ginny Swarthout (2000); Dimitrio “Denny” Marra for Barefoot Landing (2001); Whittier Party House (2002); Spencerport Garden Club and Ogden Highway Dept., Monroe County and Roberts Wesleyan College for “Ronald Starkweather Blvd” (2003), Dr. Mary Vadas of Towne & Country Eyecare (2004); Lisa VerSteeg and Maria Parina of Expressions of Dance by Lisa (2005); James Powell and Unity Lodge #479 of the Free and Accepted Masons (2006); the Spencerport Professional Building at 129 South Union Street (2007), Richard LaCroix, of Barkstrom & LaCroix, Architects (2008), The Gizzi family for their Buffalo Rd/Whittier Rd business complex renovation (2009) and Morgan Management for their rehab of the Village Plaza (2010).
The deadline for nominations is October 26th. For further information please call Lisa or Maria at 352-0877. Nomination forms may be found at our web site at SpencerportChamber.org. Nominations may be mailed to the Spencerport Area Chamber of Commerce, Attention: Award Nominations, at 131 Martha Street, Spencerport, N.Y. 14559 or they may be faxed to 352-8087.
Provided information
10/16/11
Two meetings focus on area watersheds
Improving Water Quality in the Black Creek Watershed is the topic of a Tuesday, October 25 meeting at 7 p.m., Village of Churchville, village offices, 23 East Buffalo Street Churchville.
Improving Water Quality in the Oak Orchard Creek Watershed is the topic of a public meeting, Wednesday, October 26 at 7 p.m. at the Orleans County Cornell Cooperative Extension Offices, 12690 NYS Route 31, Albion.
The Center for Environmental Information will present its DRAFT Water Quality Restoration Strategy for the watersheds. A two-year investigation has modeled sources of phosphorus to the stream and recommends the most cost-effective watershed changes to remove the current impairment and restore water quality. Opportunity will be provided for input from all interested stakeholders.
The meetings are hosted by the Village of Churchville and sponsored by the Oak Orchard Watershed Protection Alliance, Center for Environmental Information and NYS Department of Environmental Conservation.
Provided information
10/16/11
Feature Stories - Week of October 16, 2011
All aboard for canal inspection
Spencerport Mayor Joyce Lobene, Trustee Gary Penders (left) and Spencerport Waterfront Advisory Board member Dave Wieme were invited to join New York State Canal Director Brian Stratton (right) on an end-of-season inspection tour of the western portion of the Erie Canal on September 30.
The guests boarded the working tug DeWitt Clinton at Hulberton and traveled to Spencerport. “As we traveled east on the canal,” Lobene said, “I could not help but think what a beautiful area we live in, and how well towns and villages along the Erie Canal are providing welcoming ports for boaters and bicyclists.”
Provided photo
10/16/11
Nature Center work is Eagle Scout project
Andrew Murtaugh recently completed his Eagle Scout project at the Spencerport School District’s Nature Center. With the help of scouts and leaders from his troop, Andrew created a new trail in an undeveloped area of the Nature Center.
The project entailed removing brush, vegetation, and fallen trees from the trail, clearing debris, and marking the boundaries of the finished trail with limbs and trunks from fallen trees.
Andrew, a member of Troop 165 in Spencerport, worked with Dan Milgate, Assistant Superintendent of Schools, in planning his project.
Shown left on work day: (kneeling) Kareem Zarpentine, Collin Murtaugh, Ian Hanley; (standing) Andrew Murtaugh, Bob McGreevy, Jim Hossenlopp, Gary Hampton, Karen Fien, Dave Fien, Nick Nguyen, Toby Zarpentine, Tommy Zarpentine, Derek Hanley.
Provided photo
10/16/11
Hilton Fire Department talks safety to school children
James Kibby, of the Hilton Fire Department, teaches students in teacher Breanna Anadolina’s, far left, primary class at Hilton Quest Elementary School the importance of fire safety this week.
The members of the fire department brought both the quintuple combination pumper (quint), an engine and ladder truck, as well as an emergency ambulance vehicle to the school and allowed students to get up close and see what it takes to keep the community safe.
Among the safety points were the use of smoke alarms and other precautions as fire departments observed October 11 through 14, Fire Prevention Week.
Provided photo
10/16/11
Sports News - Week of October 16, 2011
CHURCHVILLE-CHILI
Saints fall in final relay event
by Warren Kozireski
Churchville-Chili overcame an early ten-point deficit and took the lead with a first and third place finish in the 200-yard freestyle relay before falling in the final event to lose to Gates Chili 93-92 in girls swimming.
The comeback was led by Heather Coloney, who took first in the 200-yard individual medley in 2:31.40, Mercedes McKinney who won the 50-yard freestyle in :27.64 as well as Rina Potocki and Kate Nau who finished 1-2 in the diving competition with 167.40 and 147 points, respectively.
The Saints Marlane Hochgraf was tops in the 500-yard freestyle in 5:47.37 and Allison Crist took top honors in the 100-yard backstroke in 1:08.18.
The team of Coloney, Nicki Coloney, Hochgraf and McKinney also finished first in the 200-yard freestyle relay in 1:53.37.
10/16/11
HILTON
Cadets win on Logory-Prince Hail Mary
by Warren Kozireski
Trailing by three points and 32 yards away with one play remaining, Hilton senior quarterback DJ Logory found Nick Prince at the two yard and he fought his way into the end zone to lead Hilton to a 28-25 comeback win at Churchville-Chili.
The Saints dominated the first half scoring on their first four possessions.
In the first quarter after a Hilton fumble recovered by Alex Chesley at the Cadets’ 38 yard line, the Saints converted as John Iacucci found James Latona wide open over the middle to a 26 yard touchdown pass.
After Hilton tied the game with a Logory to Rob Farina nine-yard slant for a score, the Saints retook the lead as Troy Talladay scampered in from 16 yards out on a screen pass.
In the second quarter, sophomore Paul Fricano hit a 25-yard field goal. Later the Saints scored again to complete a 64-yard drive capped on a third and goal pass from Iacucci to Nolan Jessup to give C-C a 22-6 lead at halftime.
Fricano opened the second half by hitting a 38 yard field goal to put the Saints up 25-6 before mistakes came back to haunt them.
Following an interception by Hilton senior Matt Marek, Logory ran 39 yards on an option and later caught a third down flea flicker pass from Dab Alexander leading to a Derek Richards five yard touchdown run. Richards ran for the two-point conversion to close the deficit to eleven points.
On the next possession, Hilton senior Nadale Fowlks intercepted the Saints leading to another long scoring drive capped by a Richards two yard touchdown run and a Fowlks reception for the two-point conversion to bring the Cadets within three of the lead.
In the fourth quarter, the Cadets defense again held on two Saints possessions - one on a third interception by Logory - leading to the winning drive that started on their own ten-yard line with 2:08 remaining.
Hilton got a third down 25-yard scramble from Logory and converted on fourth down with a pass to Richards with 39 seconds left. That set the stage for Logory and Prince on the final play of the game.
“I play basketball so coach told me to just go up and grab it like a rebound,” said Prince.
Logory finished 10-19 for 130 yards passing and added 111 yards rushing while Richards carried 24 times for 111 yards. Mitch Smith and Marek led the defense with nine tackles each.
For the Saints, Iacucci was 17-23 for 283 yards; Talladay 61 yards on 15 carries and Jessup seven catches for 127 yards while adding 11 tackles on defense.
10/16/11
Siclare scores late for Cadets
by Warren Kozireski
Junior Maddie Siclare broke up a scoreless tie with a little more than five minutes remaining in regulation to lead Hilton to a 1-0 girl’s soccer victory over host Churchville-Chili.
The first half featured up and down play with the Saints earning the first scoring chance in the 30th minute. Roberts Wesleyan bound senior Elizabeth Swan gathered the ball in the right corner and made a move around the defender along the end-line. Her centering pass to Carley Zimmerman and the resulting point-blank shot was stopped by Hilton goalkeeper Jordan Ott.
Hilton senior Danielle Wilkin then had a direct kick and rebound opportunity from 22 yards out blocked by the wall in the 46th minute.
The Saints got their offense untracked later in the second half. In the 63rd minute Zimmerman headed a Swan cross over the net and, four minutes later, a triangular pass play between Zimmerman, Allison Vaccaro and Swan was stopped by Ott.
The Cadets broke through at 74:55 when Leia Hayward ran the left sidelines in the Saints zone and passed to Shannon Page. Her cross to the middle found Siclare, who put a 25 yard shot into the upper left corner of the net.
Ott registered eight saves for her fourth shutout of the season and the Cadets’ fifth as they improved to 7-5-1. The seven wins match their season total from last season and a dramatic improvement from their one-win season in 2009.
10/16/11
School News - Week of October 16, 2011
BROCKPORT
Celebrating Brockport’s best
During the October 4 Board of Education meeting, Trustee Bob Iveson presented James Shen and Dia Gauthier with certificates for their outstanding achievement. Provided photoBrockport Central School’s Board of Education acknowledged the excellence of two fourth grade students, Dia Gauthier and James Shen, by awarding them with this year’s first “Brockport’s Best” award, during their October 4 Board meeting.
The students performed for faculty and staff during their Opening Day presentation, August 31. James amazed the audience when he played two piano pieces without sheet music (“Scherzo B Flat Major” by Franz Schubert and “Two Part Invention No. 8 in F Major” by Johann Sebastian Bach). Dia closed the presentation with a moving performance of Mariah Carey’s song, “Hero,” that was dedicated to all of Brockport CSD’s heroes. Carol Miller, music teacher, rehearsed with the students prior to their debut and also accompanied Dia on piano.
The Board of Education nominated the students for the award in recognition of their talent.
“We are so proud of James and Dia for all of their hard work and dedication to become premier musical talents at such young ages,” said Mike Andriatch, board vice president, at the awards presentation. “We acknowledge both of you for all you have already accomplished and look forward to hearing of your many successes throughout the remainder of your years in the Brockport Central School District and beyond.”
Last year, the Board recognized 29 people and they look forward to continuing the program during Board of Education meetings this year.
In an effort to honor more people, the Board is rolling out a new format for “Brockport’s Best.” Anyone affiliated with the district such as students, staff members, administrators, parents, community members or alumni, may now nominate an individual or group associated with the district from the local to the national level.
“Excellence in education is the fundamental goal of Brockport’s schools,” said Bob Iveson, board trustee. “To achieve this, a close partnership with the greater Brockport community is essential. In recognizing “Brockport’s Best” the community can see some of our outstanding students, staff, and others, who are helping achieve the goal.”
Provided information
10/16/11
Help Hill School students compete in National Pink Glove Dance challenge
Fifth graders at Brockport’s Hill Elementary participated in a music video for Medline’s Pink Glove Dance Competition to raise breast cancer awareness. In the video, 156 students donned pink gloves in their high energy dances to Katy Perry’s song “Fireworks.”
The Hill School video is among more than 135 nationwide, just four from New York state. The video is available at http://pinkglove.co/67 and voting runs through October 21. The three videos with the most votes will receive donations in their names to a breast cancer charity of choice (‘$10,000 for first place; $5,000 for second place; and $2,000 for third place). If Hill wins, the donations would go to the Hill for Hope Relay for Life team.
Upon hearing about the competition, teachers Karen Bourg, Karen Carges, Kelly Kinslow and David Resseguie immediately thought about colleagues and students who have endured cancer. Bourg, Carges, Kinslow and Resseguie say the competition has been a wonderful team-building activity and the perfect vehicle to help raise awareness.
“The conversations held in the classrooms made us all realize that cancer has an impact on all of us. Not only was cancer awareness and education established, but the classrooms have a better sense of a community, therefore making an enriched learning environment. An additional benefit of making this video, which we knew would happen, was that the children had a wonderful time creating an inspirational dance to benefit those affected by cancer. High school students Kevin Carges and Trent Garlipp did all the filming and editing, creating a spirit of cooperation, collaboration and volunteer service at several grade levels. While winning the competition was not our primary goal; instead, like a “Firework,” the kids were able to illuminate the need for education and research to help destroy all cancers,” according to the teachers.
Winners will be announced on October 28.
10/16/11
BYRON-BERGEN
B-B Elementary has upgraded entrance
After 41 years, Byron-Bergen Elementary School has upgraded its building entrance to create a friendly, secure environment for students and a central entrance and exit for the school. The project was made possible by the $20 million Capital Project, which provided improvements to the Elementary, Middle and High School. The district project started in summer 2009, although the elementary building entrance was just recently completed.
The new entrance has programmable doors that allow students to enter the school in the morning, while maintaining a secure building. The new entrance also creates a welcoming atmosphere to the school, according the district officials.
“I noticed it (building entrance) was a lot brighter,” said Chloe Torres Brown, a third grader at the school. “It makes the school look better.”
Parents and visitors will only be able to enter the school through the new entrance. Then the secretary will give visitors access to the building through an intercom. Photo ID cards provide faculty and staff access to the building during the day.
“Although access to the school has become more restricted, it provides the opportunity to have a safer environment for students and staff,” said Supervisor of Buildings and Grounds Michael List.
Provided information
10/16/11
Alumna and Ph.D. student presents at Byron-Bergen High School
Angela Mech (left) talks to high school students about college and environmental science recently at Byron-Bergen High School. Provided photoWith college applications right around the corner, Byron-Bergen’s 1995 alumna Angela Mech visited students at Byron-Bergen High School to talk about college and environmental science.
“I invited Angela to return to her alma mater to talk about her journey from high school, choosing a degree program, and some hot topics she’s working on in her lab,” said Science Teacher Steve Locke. “This will be a great opportunity for high school students to learn first hand how adventurous finding your career path can be, as well as learn about how cool the insect world is!”
Mech is currently working toward her Ph.D. in Forest Entomology at the Warnell School of Forestry and Natural Resources at the University of Georgia.
She started her presentation stating that she had a hypothesis that she can relate any career to insects. Students wrote down their career aspirations. Their responses ranged from movie stars to doctors. Mech was able to apply insects to every career proving that insects are an important part of our lives.
Mech then discussed how students’ college career paths can change and how life doesn’t always go as planned.
“I took the long, more scenic route to figure out what I wanted to do,” said Mech.
She started her college as a pharmacy student at Albany School of Pharmacy. After transferring to Monroe Community College and obtaining her degree, she realized she didn’t like her career choice.
Deciding to take some time off, Mech traveled to Europe where she realized she wanted to work in nature, something she never expected to do. After spending a summer in 1,800 acres of undocumented forest near Asheville, North Carolina, Mech said she fell in love with the Hemlock tree. Unfortunately, she said, the tree is being destroyed by an invasive insect, the hemlock wooly adelgid.
Mech is now earning her Ph.D. with the hope that her research will help to save the Hemlocks, which can be found throughout Eastern North America.
“You have to find something you’re passionate about - it might take some time to figure out what that is,” said Mech. “And, there’s nothing wrong with that.”
Provided information
10/16/11
KENDALL
Kendall select choir chosen for vocal festival
Vocal Effect, Kendall’s select choir, participates in the inaugural Eastman Vocal Festival on Saturday, October 15 at 7 p.m. at the Eastman School’s Kilbourn Hall.
“It’s truly an honor and a privilege for our students to be able to perform at this festival. Eastman is one of the premiere schools of music out there,” said Steve Miller, third-year choir director and founder of the group.
Kendall is one of five schools in the Greater Rochester region begin represented. Vocal Effect was selected to participate after word circulated to the Eastman School of Music and the group’s recordings were reviewed.
Vocal Effect will team up with the Eastman Chorale and the other four schools participating, Webster Schroeder, Brighton, Palmyra-Macedon and Pittsford-Sutherland, for two pieces. Eastman School of Music’s William Weinart will be conducting the performance. The performance is free of charge and open to the public.
The 2011-12 members of Vocal Effect are Leah Payton, Olivia Redick, Sarah Handley, Kristina D’Agostino, Jourdan Heller, Devona Jock, Megan Welling, Carley Lester, Nick Schuth, Preston Vick, Dustin Furness, Tyler Smith, Mike Schuth, David Makowski, Levi Mundt and Mark Washington.
Provided information
10/16/11
SPENCERPORT
Student’s political study and interests may someday put him on the ballot
by Maggie Fitzgibbon
Jared Meagher has some lofty goals. He’s a young man filled with ambition and he’s not afraid to work hard to make his dreams come true. Jared is a sophomore at the State University College of New York (SUNY) at Geneseo. Someday he hopes to become a New York state senator.
His interest in politics began during the 2008 presidential campaign.
“I’ve always enjoyed following politics but I followed this election closely because of the candidates. Hillary Clinton (a 2008 Democratic Presidential hopeful, now United States Secretary of State) is one of the most influential women because of what she has accomplished for our nation,” Jared explained.
Jared is a 2010 graduate of Spencerport High School. His United States History and Current Events teacher, Tony Guzzetta, noticed Meagher’s political interests during his high school years.
“He was eager to learn about politics and government. Jared was an exceptional student in both my US History class and my Current Events classes. He was always well-organized and a great essay writer,” Guzzetta explained.
Political news and currents were common discussions at the dinner table in the Meagher home. Jared’s mom, Donna Brongo-Meagher, worked as a secretary for Supreme Court Justice Judge John J. Ark and also as a paralegal for the law firm Easton, Thompson, Kasperek and Shiffrin. This firm is best known for its work with the Innocence Project, an organization that works to free individuals who have been wrongly convicted and imprisoned for crimes they did not commit.
“In 2010, when Frank Sterling was exonerated of his crime, Jared and his brothers came to court that day and watched his release from prison,” Brongo-Meagher said. (Frank Sterling was wrongfully convicted of murdering Hilton resident Viola Manville and imprisoned for over 17 years.)
During his high school years, Jared’s interest in politics grew. He followed the local races, giving close attention to political analysts. According to Brongo-Meagher, “Jared paid attention to remarks from political commentators. He’s always been knowledgeable on local government issues,” she said.
He spent many hours volunteering for candidates who were running for area political offices. In the fall of 2010, he volunteered for Harry Bronson’s campaign as Bronson ran for Assembly and in 2011, Jared knocked on doors in support of Kathy Hochul’s race for Congress. During his senior year of high school, Jared volunteered at the Monroe County Legislative Office where he drafted proposals on various legislative topics.
“I researched subjects and issues including the inhumane use of double-decker horse trailers and how to gain funding needed to clean up the New York Finger Lakes,” Jared explained.
Jennifer Skoog-Harvey was the staff director of the Monroe County Legislature Democratic Caucus where Jared volunteered during his senior year of high school. As his mentor, Skoog-Harvey oversaw his work at the legislature.
“Jared was organized and very goal-oriented. I appreciated his research and respect the attention Jared gave to every detail. I can see him as an elected official,” Skoog-Harvey said.
As his high school years ended, Jared knew he wanted to pursue politics as a career and when he was accepted at SUNY Geneseo, choosing a path was easy. He decided upon a major in political science with a minor in legal studies.
He spent this past summer interning in Washington, D.C. in Senator Kirsten Gillibrand’s office. During these two months, he learned much about our government and had many opportunities to visit the White House and Capitol building. He has many highlights of this summer adventure.
“I met so many people and networked with many but two of my best experiences were when I met Supreme Court Justice Ruth Ginsberg and Minority Leader of the United States House of Representatives Nancy Pelosi,” Jared explained.
He’s continuing his love of politics and this fall is interning in Senator Gillibrand’s Rochester office.
Jared has set some high goals for himself. After law school, he hopes to make a run for the New York Legislature.
“I would like to make a run for Congress,” he added.
But most importantly, he already has the support of his family as well as his former US History teacher Tony Guzzetta,
“I can definitely see Jared running for political office one day and I would gladly vote for him,” Guzzetta said.
10/16/11
Obituaries - Week of October 16, 2011
Death Notices for the Week of October 16, 2011
AREA
•Jordan, James R., peacefully Saturday, October 8, 2011, at age 66. He was predeceased by his parents, James H. and Anne Jordan; sister, Barbara Shipman. He is survived by his loving and devoted wife of 17 years, Kathryn Jordan; his son, Timothy (Nicole) Jordan; daughter Terasa Jordan; stepson, Douglas Peck; stepdaughter, Jennifer (David) Hart; grandchildren, Caleb, Alexa, Paige, Chloe, Lena, Ashlee, Ethan; sisters, Betty Jordan and Patty Wilson; and the mother of his children, Rebecca Jordan. Jim was a member of the GWRRA Chapter W\Bergen Gun Club, a retired Engineer of the Xerox Corporation after 40 years of service, a United States Army veteran who served his country during the Vietnam War, and a member of the Patriot Guard.
A Memorial Service was held October 13 at the New Comer Funeral Home, Greece. Interment at the convenience of the family. Contributions can be made to the Veterans Outreach Center, Inc., 459 South Avenue, Rochester 14620 in his memory.
BROCKPORT
•Bond, Robert L., October 10, 2011. Predeceased by his mother Jean and brothers Kenneth and Donald. He is survived by his loving wife of 41 years Nancy; daughters Jennifer (Fred) Harrison, Sarah (Darin) Kennedy and Mary (Jeff) Grego; grandchildren Keary, Chloe, Tyler, Camille, Emma, Sean, Leah, and Nathan; his father Herbert Sr.; brothers Richard (Sally), Herbert Jr. (Bobbie), Kevin (Debbie); sisters Debbie White and Linda Bond; mother and father-in-law Dolores (Edward) Perrine; brothers-in-law Fred (Debbie) Perrine, Ken Perrine; sisters-in-law Susan (Bob) Bayer, Joyce (Mike) Ridley; many nieces, nephews, friends and his best friend Ginger.
Funeral Services were held October 14 at the Fowler Funeral Home Inc., Brockport. Interment, Lakeview Cemetery. Contributions can be made to the American Diabetes Association in his memory.
•Kuczmynda, Thomas E., Sr., October 9, 2011. Predeceased by his parents, Edward and Katherine Kuczmynda. Survived by wife, Margaret “Peg” (Nichols) Kuczmynda; children, Thomas Kuczmynda Jr. (Christine) and Tamra Riexinger (Keith); grandchildren, Ashley, Joshua (Samantha) and Brett Riexinger, and Emily Kuczmynda; his brother, Ed (Barbara) Kuczmynda and sister, Karen (Gerry) Blossom; sisters-in-law, Lois Nichols, Joyce Wheeler, Dot (Dave) Clark, Edie Boyle; brothers-in-law, Ray (Heidi) Nichols, and recently deceased, Sonny (Carrie) Nichols and several nieces and nephews. Tom served his country in the Navy for 22 years. He then worked and retired from Eastman Kodak Company after 20+ years. Tom was very active in the local VFW and devoted to serving his local church, First Bible Baptist Church.
A Memorial Service was held October 14 at First Bible Baptist Church, Hilton. Interment private.
•Rister, Irmgard L., on October 6, 2011 at age 88. Predeceased by her husband William. She is survived by her son Frederick (Linda); daughter Maria-Louise (Laurence) Bernhardt; grandchildren Nicole, Justin and Hope; sister in Germany, Doris (Fritz) Schneider and sister in Iran, Hunne Cherafatian; several nieces and nephews in Germany and Iran.
A Funeral Mass was said October 10 at Nativity Church BVM, Brockport. Interment, Lakeview Cemetery. Contributions can be made to the Catholic Kolping Society or the Catholic Daughters of America in her memory.
•Secord, James E., on October 4, 2011, at the age of 86. Predeceased by his wife Allyn, and daughters Kelly Chung and Peggy Goosley. He is survived by his wife Marilyn; daughter Mary Beth (Ken) Dobrovolsky; step-son Karl (Sue) Carpenter; sons-in-law Gary Chung, John Goosley; grandchildren Sara and Dylan Chung, Sean Goosley, Rebekah, Rachel and Renee Dobrovolsky; step-grandchildren Ryan, Patty, Aaron and Nicholas Carpenter; great-grandson Erick Carpenter and special friend Jim-Bo his Boston Terrier.
A Funeral Mass was held October 10 at Nativity Church BVM, Brockport. Interment in North Syracuse will be held at the convenience of the family. Contributions can be made to a charity of one’s choice in his memory.
•Seever, Evelyn E., on October 4, 2011 at the age of 88. Predeceased by her husband Allan Seever, son Larry Seever, daughter Eleanor Seever, grandson Glen Seever and granddaughter Debra Seever. She is survived by her son Robert Seever, Sr.; grandchildren Sue (Steve) Nitto, Larry (Maura) Seever, Robert “Mack” Seever Jr., Brian Seever, Dawn Seever; five great-grandchildren and friends Steven and Joanne Necaster
Interment was held October 8 at Lakeview Cemetery. Contributions can be made to a charity of one’s choice in her memory.
CHURCHVILLE
•Froud, Albert J., October 6, 2011. Predeceased by his wife, Francine. Survived by his dear friends, Jamie and Jeff Wilson and their children; also Ruth and Dan Jamison; many other dear friends. Al was a retiree of Rapidac.
Interment at the convenience of the family.
HILTON
•McKernan, Lynn M., born September 22, 1971, of Rochester, formerly of Hilton, died in a tragic accident on October 6, 2011 near Scranton, Pennsylvania. Lynn was traveling to New York City with her cherished twin brother William McKernan (Bill) when the accident occurred.
Lynn was a 1989 graduate of Hilton High School. She graduated from the State University of New York at Brockport in 1993. For the last six years, Lynn was a Sales Manager at Aycan Medical Systems.
Lynn is survived by her mother Susan (Albert) Hall; her father Charles (Jane) McKernan; her sisters Elizabeth (Dustin) Graupman, Megan (John) Helferty; her aunt, Jane (Art) Prohaska; uncles Quinn Lewis, Doug (Lisa) Lewis, Mike (Kay) McKernan, Bob McKernan, Dan (Pat) McKernan; her nieces Lauren and Ella Graupman; nephew William Graupman; step-brothers and sisters and many cousins.
A Memorial Service was held October 11 at the Hilton United Methodist Church. Contributions can be made to the Multiple Sclerosis Foundation, 6520 North Andrews Avenue, Fort Lauderdale, Florida 33309, www.msfocus.org, in her memory.
•McKernan, William R. (Bill), born September 22, 1971, of Penfield, formerly of Hilton, died in a tragic accident on October 6, 2011 near Scranton, Pennsylvania. Bill was traveling to New York City with his dear twin sister Lynn McKernan when the accident occurred.
Bill was a 1989 graduate of Hilton High School. He graduated from the State University of New York at Fredonia in 1993. Bill was employed by Paychex, Inc. since 1997 in the Information Technology Division.
Bill is survived by his wife Melissa and his step-daughter Paige; his mother Susan (Albert) Hall; his father Charles (Jane) McKarnan; his sisters Elizabeth (Dustin) Graupman, Megan (John) Helferty; his aunt, Jane (Art) Prohaska; uncles Quinn Lewis, Doug (Lisa) Lewis, Mike (Kay) McKernan, Bob McKernan, Dan (Pat) McKernan; his nieces Lauren and Ella Graupman; nephew William Graupman; step-brothers and sisters and many cousins.
A Memorial Service was held October 11 at the Hilton United Methodist Church. Contributions can be made to the Multiple Sclerosis Foundation at 6520 North Andrews Avenue, Fort Lauderdale, Florida 33309, www.msfocus.org, in his memory.
•Plopper, Lynn Marie, October 6, 2011 at age 64. Lynn is survived by her loving husband of 45 years, David M. Plopper; children, Steven (Jennifer) Plopper and Susan (Cale) Tellier; six grandchildren; sister, Luann Mongelli; lifelong friend, Judy Chinappi; several other relatives; many dear friends.
Graveside Service was held October 10 at Parma Union Cemetery. Donations can be made to Lifetime Care c/o Hildebrandt Hospice Care Center (LifetimeCare.org) in her memory.
•Schilling, Mel Jr., October 6, 2011 at age 65. Survived by his wife, Elaine; children, Mel, Wendy (Chris) Mack, Gabrielle (John), James; grandchildren, Damien and Raven.
Services were held October 12 at the Dierna Funeral Home, Rochester.
•VanSlyke, Maureen A., died October 7, 2011 after a short, but courageous battle with cancer. Maureen is predeceased by her husband Chuck VanSlyke. She is survived by her son Michael VanSlyke of Oregon; step-daughter Valerie June of Syracuse; brother Bill (Sue) Chamberlain; nieces Becky (Brian) Shapley and Caroline (Rick) White; nephew Nate (Andrea) Chamberlain; great-nieces, great-nephews, cousins, and dear friends. Maureen was a member of the Hilton Heart & Hand Quilt Guild.
A Funeral Mass was celebrated October 10 at St. John the Evangelist Church, Spencerport. Interment, St. John’s Cemetery. Donations can be made to St. John the Evangelist Church, 55 Martha Street, Spencerport, New York 14559 in her memory.
HOLLEY
•DiPaolo, Mary V., October 11, 2011 at age 78. She is predeceased by her husband, Nicholas DiPaolo; parents, Oliver and Ollie Blackburn; several brothers and sisters. Survived by her sons, Stanley (Mindy), Paul (Kara) Watkins; daughters, JoAnne (John) Derosia, Mary Schultz; 10 grandchildren; seven great-grandchildren; sisters, Lucille Russi of Florida, Josephine Steffens; several nieces and nephews.
Funeral Services were held October 14 at New Comer Funeral Home, Greece. Interment, Riverside Cemetery.
•Gleason, Robert C., age 83, died October 8, 2011, after a courageous battle with cancer. Predeceased by his wife of nearly 55 years, Elizabeth J. Gleason, in 2007. He was the loving father of David (Diane) Gleason, Ruth (Donald) Barone and Rebecca (Richard) Hendel; the loving grandfather of Katherine and Elizabeth Gleason, Michael (Jenny), Andrew and Daniel Barone and Adam and Lauren Hendel, and the great-grandfather of Breia and Ellia Barone. He is also survived by his sister, Janice Wolfer, several nieces, nephews and cousins. He worked for many years for the Rochester newspapers. He was an active member of Social Lodge 713, F. & A.M., an accomplished bowler and enjoyed the area sports teams.
A Memorial Service to celebrate his life will be held at the convenience of the family. Private interment. Donations can be made to the Masonic Care Community, c/o Acacia Village, 2160 Bleeker Street, Utica, New York 13501 in his memory.
NORTH CHILI
•Bassett, Helen G., October 10, 2011. Predeceased by her husband, Harry; brothers, Edward and Paul; sister, Evelyn. Survived by her sister, Carrol Houle; many nieces and nephews; many cousins and dear friends.
Her Prayer Service was held October 13 at Vay-Schleich & Meeson Funeral Home, Greece. Interment, Riverside Cemetery. Contributions can be made to the Presbyterian Home, Cottage Grove, Memory Care Unit in her memory.
OGDEN
•Skelly, Donald J., October 10, 2011, at age 84. Predeceased by his father and mother, Charles and Mary Skelly; brother, Robert Skelly; sisters, Rita Cramer and Jean Casper. He is survived by his loving wife of 61 years, Ann (Anzovina) Skelly; sons, Donald C. Skelly, Jack (Kristine) Skelly; granddaughters, Jennifer (Michael) Jenny, Molly Skelly; brother, Carl (Nancy) Skelly; sister, Dorothy (Ray) Spall; brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law, James Casper, Carmen (Agnes) Zipeto, Robert Zipeto (Pat Avino), Elmer (Sylvia) Zipeto, Michael (Dottie) DeStefano; many nieces, nephews and cousins. Mr. Skelly was a retired home builder, a Navy Veteran of WWII, and enjoyed flying as a hobby.
His Funeral Mass was said October 14 at Holy Ghost Church. Interment, Holy Ghost Cemetery. Donations can be directed to Holy Ghost Church, 220 Coldwater Road, Rochester, New York 14624 in his memory.
•Vasquez, Thomas R., Predeceased by his parents and brother. He is survived by his loving wife, Kathleen; his son, Matthew Thomas Vasquez; stepsons, Joseph and Daniel (Jeanna) Brown; grandchildren; sister, Lehenne; brothers, Antonio, Raymond and Tony; brothers-in-law, sisters-in-law, nieces, nephews and cousins.
A Memorial Service will be celebrated 11 a.m. on Tuesday, October 18 at Gates Assembly of God, 4195 Lyell Road. Donations can be sent to the American Kidney Foundation, 6110 Executive Boulevard, Rockville, Maryland 20852 in his memory.
SPENCERPORT
•Bourbonnais, Gilles L., October 5, 2011. Gilles is predeceased by his wife, Ellen and brother, Andre. He is survived by his children, Michael (Vicki) and Richard; grandchildren, Rachel, Renee´, Regina; siblings, Jeanine (Alex), Jean-Guy (Gisele), Denise (Claude), Rejean (Francois), Pierre (Winola).
Graveside Services were held October 11 in Holy Sepulchre Cemetery, Rochester.
•McKinney, Edward, died October 5, 2011 at age 92. Ed was predeceased by his wife of 61 years, Eleanor “Ellie” McKinney; his son, George R. McKinney and great granddaughter, Anna Elizabeth McKinney. He is survived by his sons, Donald (Jan), Edward (Sandy Barczak) and James (Christy) McKinney; five grandchildren; four great grandchildren; daughter-in-law, Candy Hurlbut; sisters, Betty McAllister and Shirley Quinn; brother-in-law, Rob ert (Sara) Bechtold; sister-in-law, Carolyn Direen; several nieces and nephews, many close and dear friends including all of those from the Legacy at the Parklands. Ed was a past Mayor of the Village of Spencerport, past President of the Spencerport Fire Department, The Monroe County Fireman’s Association and the Fireman’s Association of the State of New York and a WWII Army Veteran.
A Memorial Service will be celebrated on Thursday, October 27, 2011 at 11 a.m. at First Congregational UCC, 65 Church Street, Spencerport. Private interment. Contributions can be made to Anna’s Wish, PO Box 27, North Chili, New York 14514-0027 or a charity of one’s choice in his memory.
•Rinaldi, Aniello “Nello”, October 5, 2011 at the age of 96. Nello was predeceased by his wife of 54 years Mary (Leone) Rinaldi, his sons, Donald (Sheila) and Louis Rinaldi; he is survived by his sons, John (Joanne) Rinaldi and James (Linda) Rinaldi; six grandchildren; five great grandchildren; several nieces and nephews including special nephew, Father William Leone. Nello would be remembered from his family’s business at Rinaldi’s Bar & Grill in Spencerport.
A Funeral Mass was celebrated on October 11 at St. Jerome’s Church, East Rochester. Contributions can be made to Camp Good Days Foundations, 1332 Pittsford-Mendon Road, Mendon, New York 14506 in his memory.
•Vandertang, Nellie, Peacefully October 7, 2011 at the age of 87. Nellie is predeceased by her husband Adrian Vandertang; son Thomas Vandertang. She is survived by her children, Judy (Gary) Gartz and William (Alison) Vandertang; daughter-in-law Sheila (Dave) Wohlers; six grandchildren; 15 great-grandchildren; sister Gladys Stenzel; several nieces and nephews; dog Shelby. Nellie owned and operated the Village Shoe Store in Spencerport with her husband Adrian.
Her Funeral Service was celebrated October 12 at Ogden Presbyterian Church. Burial in Fairfield Cemetery. Donations can be sent to Ogden Presbyterian Church, 2400 South Union Street, Spencerport, New York 14559 in her memory.
•Warden, Michael E., October 10, 2011. Predeceased by his brother, Jack. Survived by his wife, Lori; children and grandchildren; sisters and brothers, Terry (Bobbie), Suzanne (Robert) Comparato, Debbie (Alan) Wander, Trish (Larry) Barker and Chris (Suzie); several nieces and nephews. Michael is a retiree of the Monroe County Sheriff’s Department.
A Memorial Open House will be held at the Thomas residence Sunday, October 16, 1-5 p.m., 40 Hawley Drive, Webster.
ARCHIVES - WEEK OF OCTOBER 9, 2011
Local News - Week of October 9, 2011
Formation of Brockport Fire District goes to voters Nov. 29
by Kristina Gabalski
Voters in the Towns of Sweden and Clarkson and the Village of Brockport will head to the polls on Tuesday, November 29 for a special election that will decide if a joint Brockport Fire District will be formed.
All three municipal boards separately passed a resolution during the week of September 26 setting the date for the election and personal registration dates for those not already registered to vote. The three boards also passed a resolution at separate meetings to establish the Brockport Fire District subject to a favorable vote in the November 29 special election.
Eligible residents not currently registered with the Monroe County Board of Elections as of November 4, 2011, must register personally in order to vote on November 29.
Both the Towns of Sweden and Clarkson will register voters on Tuesday, Nov. 15. Residents in the Town of Sweden (outside of the Village of Brockport) must register at the Sweden Town Hall, 18 State Street, Brockport, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Residents of the Town of Clarkson outside the Hilton Parma and Walker Fire Districts and the Village of Brockport must register at the Clarkson Town Hall, 3710 Lake Road from 1 to 6 p.m. on November 15.
The resolution states that the Brockport Village Clerk shall make and file the registration list of electors on or before November 19, 2011 and applications to revise the registration list of electors may be made to the Village Clerk by qualified voters up to and including November 29, 2011.
Village Clerk Leslie Morelli told Westside News Inc. she is awaiting further directions but believes village residents can register with the Monroe County Board of Elections up until November 19 and then with her after that date.
Applications for absentee ballots may be obtained at the Sweden and Clarkson Town Halls and the Brockport Village Office and must be received by the town clerks and the village clerk by 4 p.m. on November 22 if the ballot is to be mailed to the voter. If the ballot is to be personally obtained, the application must be received by 4 p.m. on November 28. Completed absentee ballots must be received by the towns and village no later than 9 p.m. on November 29, the date of the special election.
During their discussions before voting on the election/registration resolution during a special meeting on September 30, Village Board members questioned village attorney Robert Leni about qualifications for eligible voters.
To be eligible to register for the special election, a voter must be a resident of either the village or the towns (outside the Hamlin Parma and Walker Fire Districts) for at least 30 days prior to the election.
“I have been hammered with criticism that non-property owners can be registered to vote,” Trustee Carol Hannan said.
“Residency is the fair measure, it has always been the fair measure,” Leni responded. He said eligibility for special elections works, “like any other election (so as) not to disenfranchise any voter.”
The proposition that will be voted on states:
“Shall the resolution be approved authorizing the Board of Trustees of the Village of Brockport, the Town Board of the Town of Sweden and the Town Board of the Town of Clarkson, Monroe County, New York, to establish a joint fire district to be known as the Brockport Fire District, which Fire district will encompass the Village of Brockport, the Town of Sweden and portions of the Town of Clarkson subject to terms and conditions set forth in the proposal dated July 28, 2011, as amended August 9, 2011.”
Brockport Mayor Connie Castaneda told this newspaper that all three municipalities must pass the proposition in order for the fire district to be created. Town of Sweden officials also confirmed the special election is really three independent elections, in order for the current proposal to go forward, it must pass in each municipality.
At the village board’s special meeting on September 30, Mayor Connie Castaneda again addressed the continuing criticism from some village residents that the village is “giving away assets” in forming a joint fire district.
“We are not doing that,” the mayor said.
She called the statement of giving away assets a, “...false premise ..... (village assets) are being transferred to the proposed fire district,” she said.
Village Attorney Robert Leni was asked by trustees if the transfer would affect the village’s credit rating and borrowing ability.
Leni responded that because the village is not giving the assets away and that because the transfer is authorized by law, “it will not have a negative impact,” he said.
Voting will take place from 8 a.m. until 9 p.m. on November 29. Voters in the Village of Brockport will vote at the Brockport Village Offices, 49 State Street; voters in the Town of Sweden outside the Village of Brockport will vote at the Sweden Town Hall, 18 State Street; and voters in the Town of Clarkson, located outside the Hilton Parma and Walker Fire Districts and the Village of Brockport will vote at the Clarkson Town Hall, 3710 Lake Road.
10/9/11
Fire Prevention events planned for the Hilton Fire Department
The month of October is fire prevention month and with that there will be a lot of activities that the firefighters and EMS members from the Hilton Fire Department will be participating in. Here is a schedule of events for the month of October.
•October 9, 1 to 4 p.m. is the Hilton Fire Department Open House at 120 Old Hojack Lane. Stop in to see the firefighters and EMS members and take a tour of the firehouse. There will be many displays and demonstrations going on throughout the afternoon.
•During fire prevention week October 11 to 14, the fire trucks and firefighters will be visiting children at the elementary schools.
•On Monday, October 17, 6 to 9 p.m., the fire trucks will be out in the neighborhoods to assist residents with any questions about fire prevention in the home and assist with home escape plans. Firefighters encourage residents to flag down the fire truck when in their neighborhood to get valuable fire safety information first-hand.
The Hilton Fire and EMS Department is a 100 percent volunteer organization. New firefighters and emergency medical members are welcome. For more information on becoming a part of the team, call (585)392-8601 or stop into the fire house at 120 Old Hojack Lane for information.
Provided information
10/9/11
Feature Stories- Week of October 9, 2011
Architect Stu Chait turns to more abstract art
by Kerrie Merz
Stu Chait says his art has become more abstract and often inspired by botanical subjects. "Lime Zest" hangs on his studio wall. Photgraph by Kerrie MerzIn “The Road Not Taken,” Robert Frost wrote that the single traveler faced with two roads diverging must make a choice, but one local man is finding his way by refusing to choose.
Award-winning architect, abstract watercolor artist, and professor, Stu Chait, of North Chili, has decided to follow each path and see where it takes him.
“It’s a journey,” he said, “which I am enjoying the heck out of.”
Chait is an award-winning architect with decades of experience in his own practice, Chait Studios, where he specializes in historical preservation and adaptive reuse. His portfolio includes the restoration of several of Rochester’s historic buildings, including Spot Coffee on East Avenue.
He also spends part of each evening painting, and has work on exhibit throughout the city. In 2010, Chait transformed half of his architecture studio, at 234 Mill Street in the High Falls District in Rochester, into gallery space where he exhibits his own work, as well as that of other local artists.
This year he adds “professor” to his titles, when he teaches a new architecture class he developed for the Rochester Institute of Technology.
“I wanted to be an architect since I was a kid,” he said, noting that his great-grandfather was renowned Rochester architect Charles Eldridge.
Chait said he remembers looking at floor plans and elevations for his own house as a child and instantly understanding them. “It just kind of bit me, “ he said.
Art is integral to architecture, according to Chait, and he studied charcoal drawing, pastels and watercolor while pursuing his architectural degree at the University of Tennessee.
After graduation Chait settled in North Chili, and over the next 20 years established his architecture practice and raised his family, while his paintbrushes stayed in storage.
He never forgot his love of creating art, however. “About eight years ago I told my wife I would like to get back into art,” he said.
His wife, Cindy, is a region coordinator for the Guiding Eyes for the Blind for Monroe County. She is also an artist, and her major focus these days is photography, particularly of the 14 puppies they have raised for Guiding Eyes.
The couple has studio space at home, and Chait says his wife supported him 100 percent when he decided to start studying art again.
He began taking classes with noted art instructor Gail Kellogg, and then with renowned abstract artist Steve Carpenter. Eventually, Chait was invited to exhibit at some local galleries, and was surprised when he sold a couple of paintings on opening night.
“I never anticipated that, I thought this would be a hobby,” he said. As he becomes more comfortable with his art, he has explored new techniques, leading to more exhibits in regional shows and awards.
His first few years Chait said his paintings were more representational. “There were things I had to get out of my system,” he says. “But that wasn’t the way I wanted to paint.”
He said as his work became more abstract he began to experiment with “pouring” and “dropping” techniques. “I was getting frustrated with watercolor paper because it is always behind glass and you are limited in size,” he said.
He discovered a new watercolor canvas, and he says he’s now creating work no one has ever done before. “The canvas is even more spontaneous than paper,” he said. “Certain colors are more aggressive, different colors do different things when you drop them on the paper.”
Much of his current work is botanically inspired, and many are triptychs. “The form resonates with me - the need to make each panel able to stand on its own,” he said. He said when people ask why his art is so abstract, the answer is simple, “I’m an architect, I draw lines all day!”
You can view, and purchase, his work at Chait Studios, which is always open from 5-9 on the first Friday of every month as part of the city-wide “First Fridays,” and for special events, which can be found on his website, http://www.chaitstudios.com/ChaitFineArt/.
His paintings are also on exhibit at the Tap and Mallet restaurant, 381 Gregory Street, through January. Chait said he is considering a series of paintings based on literary references next, or possibly on music theory.
“It is rewarding to me to be able to do work, whether its architecture or art, that people enjoy. It is nice to be able to give back to community, through teaching or the gallery, it helps to complete the circle,” he said.
10/9/11
Demonstrations mark National Lace Day
October 1 was National Lace Day and celebrated at the Spencerport Depot and Canal Museum with demonstrations of how to stitch lace patterns. Museum Director Doreen Castano (center) and Nancy Bagoly (right) watch Jane Cooke (left) as she stitiches a lace pattern. Both Nancy Bagoly and Jane Cooke from Spencerport are members of the Genesee Country Lace Guild. Photo by Dave Knox
Nancy Bagoly of the Genesee Country Lace Gulid demonstrates stitching a lace pattern for National Lace Day at the Spencerport Depot and Canal Museum. Photo by Dave Knox
10/9/11
Spencerport United Methodist Church Supports Military working dogs
K9 Officer Paul Wright and his dog, Jager, a 10-year-old Belgian Malinois, from the Allegany County District Attorney's Office, put on a working dog demonstration for the Military Working Dogs fundraiser at Cosgrove Middle School Spencerport. The Military Working Dogs fundraiser was hosted by the Spencerport United Methodist Church. The Outreach Team at Spencerport United Methodist Church supports three kennels overseas by collecting items for the dogs and their handlers.
Jager is used to search for narcotics for the DA's Office. Photos by Dave KnoxThe group accepts donations for shipping the packages to the Military Working Dog teams. Items being collected include dog treats, collars, retractable leashes for large dogs, Kongs, toys, water bowls that hang on the sides of kennel fences and collapsible water bowls. Doggles and paw protection are also useful. Items for the handlers are also welcome.
Contact Joanie Rogers at fjoni@hotmail.com. Those interested may purchase a decal for a $2 donation. Mail any monetary donations to Joanie Rogers, 49 Village Walk, Spencerport 14559.
10/9/11
Ogden Recreation hosts 2nd Annual Fall Fest
On Saturday, September 24, Ogden Parks and Recreation hosted their 2nd annual Fall Fest at Pineway Ponds Park.
Children of all ages got their faces painted, painted pumpkins, stuffed scarecrows, listened to stories, made crafts, petted the pony and played games. Volunteers and donations helped make it all possible.
Donors included: Jim Maier-H.A. Maier Farm, Rod Stettner-Stettner Farm, Spencerport TOPS Friendly Market, Tina Cope-Alivio Horse Farm, Spencerport Kiwanis Club, Higbie Farm Supplies, and Robb Farms.
Provided photo
10/9/11
Hilton Apple Fest 2011
The Hilton Apple Fest started out under clouds, but rain held off for most of Saturday, October 1. Sunday was both cloudy and rainy (till around 2 p.m. when it kind of stopped), which hurt attendance. Those who braved the elements found good food, a huge variety of crafts, some muddy conditions and very good entertainment.
Judging the apple pie contest was a serious matter as the judges, left to right, Leo Van Damme, Laura Devine, Tony D’Apice, Joe Sciortino and Paul Marvin tasted their way through 10 youth-made pies and 27 adult-made pies. Grace Muir, 15, won first place and Morgan Farrell, 13, won second place in the Youth category. Karen Ciufo won first place in the Adult category; Robin Taney won second place; Dawn Comden won third. The contest committee consisted of Shannon Balbi, Judi Walters and Linda Viney.
Greece resident Gabby Phillips, 9, daughter of Adam and Jen Phillips, assisted magician Bill Gormont in transforming a bunch of ropes into one strand.
You still get the munchies, rain or no - Sandy Parker, Norm Fuller and Joss and Paula Merrill enjoy eating their blooming onion.
The food aisle was doing well in spite of the rain.
Timmy Chaney hawked for the Apple Crisp booth.
Holding aloft their apple cider drinks are Nakiya Mixon, 8, Hilton, Kristina Geraci, 9, Greece, and Lacey Harris, 9, Hilton.
Photographs by Walter Horylev
10/9/11
Apple Pie bakers compete at Apple Fest
There were 37 pies submitted for the Hilton Apple Pie contest held October 1.
In the Youth Division, the first place winner was Grace Muir with a pie made of Cortland and 20 oz. apples. She won $50. The second place winner in the Youth Division was Morgan Farrell with a pie of 20 oz. apples for which she won $25.
In the Adult division, Karen Ciufo won first place with a pie of Empire, Macoun, and Gala apples. She won $100. The second place winner was Robin Taney with a pie made of MacIntosh apples for which she won $50. The third place winner in the Adult category was Dawn Comden with a pie made of Granny Smith and Ginger Gold apples. She won $25. All winners were from Hilton.
Judges were Tony D’Apice of Rochester, Laura Devine of Spencerport, Paul Marvin of Hilton, Joe Sciortino of Rochester, and Leon Van Damme of Rochester.
Volunteers who were instrumental in the success of the contest were Kathy Enright of Rochester, Mary Herring of Kendall, Becky Hibbard of Hilton, Janet Lincoln of Rochester, Joan Marvin of Hilton, and Cheryl Miles of Hilton.
Members of the Apple Pie Contest Committee were Shannon Balbi of Brockport, Linda Viney of Hilton, and Judi Walters of Groveland.
10/9/11
Sports News - Week of October 9, 2011
BROCKPORT
Blue Devils get tenth win
by Warren Kozireski
Brockport’s girls soccer squad scored three times and senior goalkeeper Ryann Sullivan made four saves in registering her sixth shutout of the season in a 3-0 shutout over visiting Hilton.
The Blue Devils dominated play early and were able to convert on their fifth corner kick over the first sixteen-plus minutes of play.
Senior Alley Sharpe placed a perfect corner kick onto the head of classmate Audrey Hayward who found the net to put Brockport up 1-0 at 16:11.
In the second half on yet another corner kick, Sharpe knocked the ball to the far side of the box finding Hayward. She passed to a wide open Isabella Ekeze in the slot for a 2-0 lead at 59:29.
In the 70th minute, the Blue Devils broke up a Hilton corner kick and countered on the break. Hayward fed Chelsea Stahl whose shot was saved by Hilton goalkeeper Jordan Ott. The rebound went straight to Taylor Williams and the senior put it in for the third and final goal.
The defending regular season champion Blue Devils improved to 10-1 with five games remaining prior to the playoffs.
10/9/11
HILTON
Cadets win in 2 OT
by Warren Kozireski
Junior Luke Bennett scored off a direct kick by Adam Lynch with just 13 seconds remaining in the second overtime as Hilton defeated Gates Chili in boys soccer 3-2. The game was one of four varsity games held at Spencerport as part of Rival Cup 2011.
Senior Ben Schrieber scored the first of his two goals in the game when he converted a penalty kick at 30:02 for a 1-0 Hilton lead.
Just four minutes into the second half of a 1-1 game, Gates Chili was awarded a penalty kick, but senior goalkeeper Zach Cole made a dive to his right to knock the attempt away to preserve the tie.
The Cadets regained the lead in the 61st minute when Dylan Schepler led Schrieber from midfield with a perfect pass up the middle for his second goal of the game and team-leading sixth of the season.
Gates Chili pushed everyone up in the final minutes of regulation and was able to generate the tying goal with just 16 seconds remaining sending the game into overtime.
Following a scoreless ten minute OT, Bennett converted the pass from Lynch in the dying seconds of the second overtime for his first goal of the season to give the Cadets their second victory of the season.
10/9/11
Apple Derby runners make it through the rain
Less than ideal weather conditions hovered over Hilton during the 32nd running of the Apple Derby 5 Mile Race on October 1. Through high winds and a damp 48 degrees, a total of 63 runners competed within eight age categories at this annual event.
The overall champion, Jeff Bigham (27:10) out-distanced second place finisher Jason Knarr (27:47) and Paul Glor (29:00) to finish first and three-time champion. Patricia Pirnie (33:46) was the first female, eleventh overall to cross the finish line, and Aida Kuhlkin (34:16) finishing as the second over all female. Kimberly Miller (37:32) was crowned the Roger Messenger Masters Division Champion, outdistancing third place finisher was Sara Ward (35:37). Matt Kellman was the returning Master Champion also winning this special category at the 2010 race.
The Hilton-Parma Recreation Department would like to show their appreciation to the Hilton Central School District, the Monroe County Sheriff’s department, the Hilton-Parma Recreation Commissioners, race co-coordinator Tom Galey, Jim Merkel, Dixie Messenger and all others who volunteered at this year’s race.
Top Ten Finisher
Male Runners
2011 Apple Derby 5 Mile overall champions Jeff Bigham (27:10) and Patricia Pirnie (33:46) at the awards presentation. Provided photo1. Jeff Bigham 27:10
2. Jason Knarr 27:47
3. Paul Glor 29:00
4. Matt Kellman 29:26
5. David O’Leary 30:29
6. Ken Merkel 31:19
7. Samuel Picard 31:24
8. Alan Pogroszewski 31:24
9. Gregory Newahowski 32:05
10. Robert Hass 32:07
Female Runners
1. Patricia Pirnie 33:46
2. Aida Kuhlkin 34:16
3. Sarah Ward 35:37
4. Kimberly Miller 37:32
5. Fran Mance 38:24
6. Jamie Melos 39:05
7. Chris Aguglia 39:24
8. Betsey Reigle 39:55
9. April Knarr 40:03
10. Connie Hibbard 41:02
Overall Male: Jeff Bigham (27:10)
Overall Female: Patricia Pirnie (33:46)
Masters Champion/Male: Matt Kellman (29:26)
Masters Champion/Female: Kimberly Miller (37:32)
Male Competitors:
•Ages 10-18 - Evan Pirnie (36:06), Ben Wilson (42.22).
•Ages 19-29 - Chris Langswager (39:47), Nathan Clark (41.43).
•Ages 30-39 - Jason Knarr (27:47), Paul Glor (29:00).
•Ages 40-49 - Ken Merkel (31:19), Alan Pogroszewski (31:34).
•Ages 50-59 - David O’Leary (30:29), Robert Hass (32:07).
•Ages 60-69 - Bob Kuehl (39:48), Russ Conjerti (51:51).
Female competitors:
•Ages 10-18 - Allyson Strauss (47:35).
•Ages 19-29 - Sarah Ward (35:37), Lindsay D’Ambrosia (45:26).
•Ages 30-39 - Aida Kuhlkin (34:16), Fran Mance (38:24).
•Ages 40-49 - Kristen Progno (42:47), Melissa Scialdone (44:45).
•Ages 50-59 - Dixie Messenger (50:35), Judi Marino (53:14).
•Ages 60-69 - Connie Hibbard (41:02), Lynda McGuire (41:39).
10/9/11
KENDALL
Kendall rallies in second half
by Warren Kozireski
Ashley Malikowski, Nicole Browe and Amber Clay each scored second half goals as Kendall defeated Pembroke 3-1 in a girls soccer game at Jurhs Field.
Following a scoreless first half that featured three Kendall scoring chances, the Eagles got on the board in the 42nd minute. Browe passed to Malikowski on the left wing where she dribbled to center and found the lower left corner of the net for a 1-0 lead.
After Pembroke tied the game 17 minutes later at 1-1, the sophomore Browe scored what would prove to be the game-winner when she took a pass off a throw-in and put the ball just under the crossbar from 20 yards out at 64:00.
In the 71st minute, Malikowski sent a cross that was tipped in by Clay for the final tally.
“We switched from a 5-3-3 defensive alignment to a 4-4-3 in the second half to shore up the middle,” said Kendall head coach Rick Baldwin. “That was the key to generating the offense we did.”
The Eagles improved to 7-3 with the win and were in position to host a first round Section Five playoff game with two weeks remaining in the regular season.
10/9/11
SPENCERPORT
Rangers romp over C-C
by Warren Kozireski
Senior midfielder Brandon Bianchi netted four goals and Jacob Jackson added another to lead Spencerport to a 5-0 shutout over visiting Churchville-Chili in boys soccer.
The Rangers played keep-away for much of the first half dominating the time of possession. That led to the first goal just 9:10 into the game when Mike Roman fed a pass from midfield through the Saints defenders to Bianchi, who found the net.
In the second half, the Rangers scored four times over a 12 minute span to put the game out of reach.
At 45:03, Bianchi gathered a throw-in and put a bullet-shot into the right side of the net from 30 yards out for his second of the game.
Less than four minutes later, sophomore Drew DeJohn found Bianchi in the box with a perfect cross from the right sideline and the senior headed it home for a 3-0 lead.
His fourth goal of the game came at 53:31 again on a header - this time on a corner kick off the foot of Roman.
In the 57th minute senior Pat Sprague took a shot from the left side of the box that was stopped, but the rebound went directly to Jackson who scored to make it 5-0.
With the win, the Rangers improved to 9-1-1 and maintained possession of first place with Greece Athena, their opponent in the regular season finale, on the heels.
10/9/11
School News - Week of October 9, 2011
BYRON-BERGEN
Byron-Bergen celebrates Alumni Hall of Fame inductees
The newest members of the Byron-Bergen Alumni Hall of Fame were honored at the district’s Alumni Hall of Fame Induction Assembly, September 23.
The Byron-Bergen Alumni Hall of Fame was established in 2003, and is a partnership between the Byron-Bergen Educational Foundation and the district’s Board of Education.
Supporting the boards goal of celebrating accomplishments and successes throughout the learning community, the Alumni Hall of Fame (1) recognizes the vast array of achievements and contributions of the District’s graduates to society, and (2) provides students with positive role models.
Congratulations to this year’s inductees:
•Timothy Edgerton, ’78, began his career with the U.S. Immigration and Naturalization Service (now known as Immigration and Custom’s Enforcement). Edgerton developed, implemented and coordinated Operation Child Intercept, which has been adopted nationwide, in 1993 to combat the illicit transportation of missing and abducted children across the international border of Canada and the U.S.
He currently manages the Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Criminal Alien Program for the Buffalo Field Office in Batavia. He is a member of the Oakfield-Alabama CSD Board of Education, and president of Oakfield-Alabama Elementary-Community School Organization.
“Through his outstanding professional, academic and civic accomplishments, Mr. Edgerton serves as an excellent role model for the youth of Byron-Bergen Central School District,” said Emma Phillips, Byron-Bergen High School student and Student Council member.
•Bradley Foltman, ’64, served on active duty with the U.S. Coast Guard for two years following his high school graduation. He then went on to complete a dedicated career in public service lasting over three decades with his retirement in 2007. During these years he served as the safety and public information officer for the Idaho Division of Aeronautics, and then the administration section manager for the Idaho Department of Fish & Game. He also filled two positions in the Idaho Division of Financial Management before being appointed as cabinet level administrator by Governor Dirk Kempthorne, and reappointed by Governor James Risch and Governor C.L. “Butch” Otter.
Currently, Foltman serves as chairman for the Boise City/Ada County Housing Authority, and is a charter member of the Public Committee for the Idaho Non-Profit Center. He is also chairman of the Methodist Counseling Center, treasurer of Eagle United Methodist Church, and a member of the Masonic Lodge of Idaho and El Korah Shrine.
“Through his years of service in public administration and his dedication to civic duty, Mr. Foltman serves as an inspirational role model to the youth of Byron-Bergen Central School District,” said Elizabeth Phelps, Byron-Bergen High School student and Student Council member.
•James Myers, ’66, served in the U.S. Army for two years following his high school graduation, during which time he completed three tours in Vietnam. He received the Paratrooper Badge, the Silver Star for rescuing fellow soldiers, four Bronze Stars for bravery and meritorious service, and a Purple Heart for wounds sustained in Vietnam. His final rank was staff sergeant. He is the former comptroller for St. Ann’s Community, and currently serves as the chief financial officer/director of finance of St. John’s Home.
Myers has been a volunteer in many facets of the community, including for the Veteran’s Outreach Center, Gates Chili Board of Education, Gates Soccer Board, and the Western Regional Council for New York State Association of Home Services for Aging. Currently, he is president of the Chili Library Board
“James Myers has always been a diligent worker and a positive influence in whatever capacity he has been involved -- as a student, a soldier, a volunteer, or a financial expert in the health care industry,” said Briana Strassner, Byron-Bergen High School student and Student Council member. “Mr. Myers serves as an outstanding role model to the youth of Byron-Bergen Central School District.”
Provided information
10/9/11
HILTON
Hilton Schools’ Head Bus Driver named “School-Related-Professional of the Year”
The Hilton Central SRP of the Year for 2011-12 is Paula Schroth, right, Hilton CSD Transportation Department Head Bus Driver. With her are presenters, from left, Karen Jones, SRP of the Year Committee Chair and Kathy Diedrich, President of the HCSEA. Provided photoThe Hilton Central School Employee Association (HCSEA) annually recognizes excellence in its staff members. This year’s School-Related-Professional (SRP) of the Year for 2011-12 is Paula Schroth, Hilton Central School District Transportation Department Head Bus Driver, who was honored by her colleagues for her professionalism and character. The award was presented September 6 at the annual staff convocation at Hilton High School.
A Transportation Department bus driver since 1988, Paula Schroth became Head Bus Driver in 1997. “I deal with parent calls, sub-scheduling, the Transfinder software for route scheduling, field trip and sports scheduling and I’m on call for any busing issues after hours,” she said.
Schroth is also a 19-A bus driver trainer and can do road tests as well as defensive driving tests with new drivers. She holds a CDL-B license.
SRP finalists this year also honored were: Kathy Neefe, teacher’s assistant at the Village Elementary School and Ellen Reitter, Main Office Secretary at Hilton High School.
The Hilton Central School District School-Related Professional of the Year honors the exceptional skills and initiative shown by Hilton staff members. Nominees are members of the Hilton Central School Employee Association (HCSEA) for at least five years prior to nomination.
Provided information
10/9/11
Northwood Elementary teacher honored as Hilton Teacher of the Year
The Hilton Teacher of the Year is Patricia Mee, center. She is joined by finalists Suzanne Waldron; Margret Mason; Sara Unterborn; and Carol Cowan. (Not pictured - finalists Pam Tenny, Lynn Lincourt, Scott Calberg and Margie Emler). Provided photoThe Hilton Central Schools Teachers Association (HCSTA) 2011-12 selection of the Hilton Teacher of the Year was presented on September 6 at the annual staff convocation at Hilton High School by HCSTA President Ed Donnelly. This year’s honoree is Northwood Elementary School teacher, Patricia Mee, who was honored for her “warmth, professionalism, and ability to reach out to everyone including colleagues.”
Nominees are screened by the HCSTA Teacher of the Year committee chaired by Merton Williams Middle School teacher Marie Ward. Letters of recommendation are collected from colleagues, parents and students. Also honored were finalists: Suzanne Waldron, Health Teacher at Hilton High School; Carol Cowan, Family, Home and Careers Teacher at Hilton High School; Pam Tenny, Social Studies Teacher at Merton Williams Middle School; Margret Mason, Elementary Teacher at the Village Elementary School; Sara Unterborn, Special Education Teacher at the Village Elementary School; Lynn Lyncourt, Elementary Teacher at Northwood Elementary School; Scott Calberg, Special Education Teacher at Quest Elementary School; and Margie Emler, Language Arts Teacher at Quest Elementary School.
Nominees must have more than five years of exceptional service to the district, active involvement in the Hilton community, and having made a substantial impact on the lives of their students and colleagues.
10/9/11
Hilton School groups making strides
Hilton teams representing Hilton Girls Soccer, Hilton High School, Village and Quest Elementary schools were well-represented Sunday, October 2, at Rochester’s Frontier Field for the American Cancer Society’s Making Strides Against Breast Cancer walk.
Over the years the teams have donated tens of thousands of dollars to the effort.
Team Tydings from Quest Elementary School made a strong showing. Front row, left to right are Paige Langswerger, Jenna Randisi, Makenna Tydings, Taylor Tydings, Michelle Barton, Beth Meeker; rear row, left to right are Shana Davenport, Loni Butlin, Ann Sanger, Chrsitine Steiger, Carol Jones, Suzanne Pilon, Brenda Carpenter, Becca Kolupski. More than $800,000 was raised in Rochester this year by 8,700 walkers.
Provided photo
10/9/11
HOLLEY
Holley girls soccer makes strides against breast cancer
The rain and cold temperatures didn’t keep Holley’s modified and junior varsity soccer teams from raising over $1,000 for the American Cancer Society Making Strides Against Breast Cancer Walk.
“Donations are still rolling in!” said Rachael Henry, modified girls soccer coach. “I love that the girls got so involved and really worked to raise money this year. Students and student athletes are so used to fundraising for themselves - for warm-ups, jerseys, a trip - but this time they were raising money for and supporting something so much bigger than themselves. I am so proud of my girls!” She also thanked all of the parents for helping the players collect donations, driving them to the walk, and walking in the pouring rain with the team.
Shown are: (front, l-r) Emily Pearson, Sami Barniak, Tiffany Winkleman, Anna Yaroshchuk, Ryley O’Mara, Courtney Winkley, Bailey Papaj, Annie Jewell, Heather Winkley, Brianna Hecht, and Julianna Drewry; (back) Coach Renee Wolf, Emily Kordovich, Diana Yaroshchuk, Kristen Nenni, Lexi Reyngoudt, Nicole Blackburn, Dana Frisbee, Danielle Bevins, Riley Sanger, Mikala Smith, Salina Merriam, Julia Smith, and Coach Rachael Henry.
Provided photo
10/9/11
Obituaries - Week of October 9, 2011
Death Notices for the Week of October 9, 2011
AREA
•Cole, Bonnie J., September 10, 2011 at the age of 63. Bonnie is survived by her siblings, Tom (Paulette) Cole, Deborah (Frank) Bonnewell, Gail Cole and Robert (Suzanne) Schwertfeger; her companion, Harry Kotin; nieces and nephews, Todd (Mara) Bonnewell, Scott (Danielle) Bonnewell, David (Kimberly) Schwertfeger and Ellen (Regina Johnson) Schwertfeger; great nieces and nephews, cousins and many dear friends.
A Memorial Service was held October 6 at Walker Brothers Funeral Home, Inc., Churchville. Interment, Creekside Cemetery, Churchville.
•Flaherty, Donald, age 79, of Steamburg, New York, died October 1, 2011 in the Absolut Center in Salamanca. He was born September 16, 1932 in Rochester, the son of the late Russell F. and Helena S. Beaulieu Flaherty. He was a graduate of Bergen High School, Bergen.
He is survived by his wife of 59 years, Beverly R. Knapp, whom he married on July 10, 1952 in Churchville; three sons, Thomas (Diane) Flaherty of Rochester, John (Catherine) Flaherty of Hamlin and David (Janet) Flaherty of Steamburg; four grandchildren; three great-grandchildren; a sister-in-law, Patricia Flaherty of Leroy; brother-in-law, Thomas Moore of Rochester. He was predeceased by two daughters, JoAnn Flaherty and infant Pamela Flaherty, granddaughter Francine Flaherty, great grandson Joseph Stephens III, a brother Francis Flaherty and two sisters Monica Deacon and Kathleen Moore. Mr. Flaherty was a Veteran of the United States Navy serving during the Korean War from 1951-1955. He retired as food service director from SUNY Brockport and was the owner of the former Flaherty’s Grocery in Steamburg. He was a Communicant of St. Patrick’s Catholic Church in Randolph, a life member of the Hamlin, New York Fire Department and a member of the Randolph American Legion Post 181.
A Mass of Christian Burial was held October 6 at St. Patrick’s Catholic Church, Randolph, New York. Burial will be in the Mt. Olivet Cemetery, Brockport. To send a condolence log onto www.vanrensselaerandsonfuneralhome.com. Contributions can be made to Randolph American Legion Post 181, Randolph, New York in his memory.
•Kingsbury, Dorothy, of Rochester, died September 23, 2011. She is predeceased by her husband, Richard Kingsbury. Survived by her children, Karen (David) Hyslop, Marcia (Pedro) de Oliveira Santos, Ron (Sue) Kingsbury; and her grandchildren, Ross, Emily, Taylor, Daniel, Ashley and Lucas.
A Memorial Service was held September 26 at Northridge Church. Private interment, Riverside Cemetery.
BROCKPORT
•DeSoto, Stephen B., Age 50, died suddenly October 1, 2011. Predeceased by his mother Elizabeth “Betsy”. Survived by his daughter Priscilla DeSoto of Holley; father, Jack DeSoto of Texas; sisters, Kathy (Brad) Cleveland of Texas, Maryellen Tette of Auburn; nieces, nephews.
Funeral Services were held October 6 at the Christopher Mitchell Funeral Homes, Inc., Holley. Interment, St. Mary’s on the Lake Cemetery.
CHURCHVILLE
•Coleman, Wilma A., October 3, 2011. Predeceased by her husband, John P. and son, Richard. Survived by her children, Candice (James) White, Sally Wilby and Don (Mary); 14 grandchildren; six great-grandchildren; sister, Hildegarde Carris. Wilma was a long time member of St. Christopher’s Church.
A Memorial Service was held October 5 at St. Christoper’s Church, North Chili. Donations can be made to Hospice of Rochester (Lifetime Care) or to the church in her memory.
•Kissel, Anne (Duchyns), Died October 4, 2011 at the age of 95. She was predeceased by her husband, Steve Kissel; grandsons, Kevin Kissel and George Bogard; brothers, Anthony, Michale and Joseph; sister, Mary. She is survived by her daughters, Patricia (Raymond) Barber, Kathleen (Fred) Bogard; sons, William (Lynn) Kissel, Steve (Bonnie) Kissel; seven grandchildren; two step-grandchildren; eight great-grandchildren; three step-great-grandchildren; two great-great-grandchildren. Anne had a love of singing and was a member of the St. Josaphat’s Catholic Church Choir.
A Funeral Mass was held October 7 at St. Josaphat’s Catholic Church, Rochester. Interment, Holy Sepulchre Cemetery. Contributions can be directed to Hospice of Rochester Lifetime Care, 3111 Winton Road South, Rochester, NY 14623 in her memory.
GREECE
•Baliu, Marian A., Suddenly on October 3, 2011. Predeceased by her parents, Albert and Edith Phillips. Survived by her devoted husband of 60 years, Jose Raul Baliu; children, Donald (Ila) Baliu and Carol (Thomas) Lotta; grandchildren, Andrea, David, Christopher; sister, Frances (D.Carl) Yackel of Lake Oswego, Oregon; sister-in-law, Natalia Estrabao of Texas; many nieces, nephews, cousins and dear friends.
Funeral Services were held October 6 at the Bartolomeo & Perotto Funeral Home, Inc., Greece. Entombment, Riverside Cemetery. Contributions can be made to the Parkinson’s Disease Center, 919 Westfall Road, Suite 220, Rochester 14618 in her memory.
HAMLIN
•Dorgan, Ruth N., October 2 2011, age 89. Widow of Norman Dorgan. Survived by her children, Edward Dorgan and Bonnie (David) Townsend; three grandchildren; four great-grandchildren; two great-great-grandchildren; her brother and sister-in-law, George and Janice Dorgan; several nieces and nephews.
Funeral Services were held October 8 at the Thomas E. Burger Funeral Home, Inc., Hilton. Interment, Garland Cemetery. Contributions can be made to Hamlin Fire Department Exempts in her memory.
HILTON
•Bernard, Jeneanne B. (Brady), Suddenly, September 28, 2011 at age 50. She is survived by her husband, Adam Peter Bernard; her children, Cameron Bernard, Madelyn (Kailer) Lockwood, Maxwell Bernard; her parents, Thomas and Patricia Brady; brother, Jon (Christina) Brady; sisters, Marybeth (Thomas) Mueller, Jill Brady, Renee (David) Montella; brothers and sister-in-law, Thomas and Shannon Bernard, Michael Penkin; several aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces and nephews; many dear friends.
Her Funeral Service and interment were held at the convenience of the family. Contributions can be made to her children’s educational fund, c/o Marybeth Mueller, 45 Wood Lily Lane, Fairport, NY 14450 in her memory.
•Burgess, Robert, of Ft. Worth, Texas formerly of Hilton, died August 14 2011. Predeceased by his wife, Diane, mother and father, Teresa and Weldon (Dick) Burgess, his sisters Teresa Knapp and Patricia Wood. Survived by his daughter Robin; brothers: Richard (Jane) of Cape Vincent, David (Audrey) of Brockport and John (Barbara) of Hilton.
Funeral Services were held at the convenience of the family in Fort Worth, Texas.
•Dunbar, Margaret G., October 1, 2011, age 64. Survived by her husband, William; her sons, Michael (Brenda) and Paul (Trish) Dunbar; three grandchildren, Zach, Tabitha and Billy; brother, Frank Bires; sister, Cheryl (Dan) Easton; several nieces and nephews.
Services were held October 6 at the Thomas E. Burger Funeral Home, Inc., Hilton. Contributions can be made to the Humane Society at Lollypop Farm in her memory.
•Hafner, Dorothy A., Suddenly on September 27, 2011. Predeceased by her husband, Warren A. Hafner. Survived by her children, Gary (Gail) Hafner and Donna (Pete) Head; grandchildren, Jennifer (Tim) Kennedy, Justin (Sara) Hafner, Melissa Head, Kevin Head; great-granddaughter, Teagan Rose Kennedy; sister, Ethyl Schoeneman; many nieces and nephews,
Funeral Services will be held at the convenience of the family. Donations can be made to Lifetime Assistance Foundation, 425 Paul Road, Rochester, New York 14624 or the Humane Society at Lollypop Farm, 99 Victor Road, Fairport, NY 14450 in her memory.
NORTH CHILI
•Barbato, Ann C., September 27, 2011. Predeceased by her husband, Samuel J. Barbato; grandson, Timothy Barbato; sister, Mary Gould. She is survived by her son, Scott (Donna) Barbato; grandchildren, Nicole and Sandra Barbato; great-grandchildren, Maximus and Tyler Barbato. Survived by several nieces and nephews; very special friend, Dawn.
Services were held October 1 at the New Comer Funeral Home, Greece. Entombment, Holy Sepulchre Cemetery.
SPENCERPORT
•Heffron, Marcia A. (Christ), September 29, 2011 at age 77. A 1954 graduate of Our Lady of Mercy High School, she went on to work for Rochester Telephone, where she met her husband, Bill Heffron, moved to Spencerport and lived the remainder of her active life. Marcia also worked for the Rochester School for the Deaf from 1976-1996. Marcia is survived by her husband Bill; sons Dick, Jamie and David; daughter Maryblaise; three grandsons and two granddaughters.
A Funeral Mass was celebrated October 3 at St. John the Evangelist Church, Spencerport. Contributions can be made to Aurora House, P.O. Box 21, Spencerport, NY 14559 in her memory.
•Megna, Umberto, died September 29, 2011. Predeceased by his parents, Santino and Giuseppa Megna; brothers, Vittorio and Giovanni Megna. Survived by his wife, Florence (DiFrancesco) Megna; children, Josie (Tony) Latore, Santino (Linda) Megna and Charlie Megna; grandchildren, Gianluca Latore, Alessia Megna, Eriana Megna and Anthony Latore; brothers, Enzo, Tanino and Pino Megna; sister, Elvira Pandolfo; brothers-in-law and family. Olindo, Emanuele and Joseph DiFrancesco; many nieces, nephews and extended family in Italy.
His Funeral Mass was celebrated October 3 at St. John the Evangelist Church, Spencerport. Entombment Holy Sepulchre Cemetery. Donations can be sent to the St. Padre Pio Chapel, 1510 Lyell Avenue, Rochester NY 14606 in his memory.
ARCHIVES - WEEK OF OCTOBER 2, 2011
Local News - Week of October 2, 2011
Tops comes to Hilton --
A new sign was installed September 27 on Furnal’s Fresh Market in HIlton and officials gathered there on September 28 to mark the beginning of Tops Friendly Markets 15th location in Monroe County and the 133rd store in the company’s New York/Pennsylvania market.
On hand for the reopening as Tops was company President and CEO Frank Curci (left) who congratulated Rick Furnal for his community service. “I’d like to thank the Hilton community and my associates for 41 years of support, commitment and service,” Rick Furnal said. “I am confident Tops will be a good neighbor and continue to service the needs of the community for years to come.”
Changes to the local grocery store will begin immediately with additional products and services. Renovations will begin in early January 2012 and will include a new store front, interior decor and added self-check-out stations.
(Shown at right,) Hilton Village Mayor Joe Lee, recognizing Rick Furnal’s community commitment, joined by Frank Curci, State Senator Joe Robach and Todd Nettnin, Tops district manager and former Hilton resident.
Photos by Walter Horylev
10/2/11
Two Brockport firefighters honored for heroic deeds
by Kristina Gabalski
Two Brockport firefighters have been honored by Liberty Mutual Insurance with Heroism Awards for their acts of bravery in separate incidents earlier this year.
Fire Department Past Captain William Connors and Lieutenant Timothy Russell were honored Tuesday, September 20 by Matthew Reiter, a sales representative from Liberty Mutual’s Ridge Road office and Richard Fisher, Senior Branch Manager.
Eighty-year old Bill Connors has been with the fire department for 62 years and his role recently has been administrative and supportive rather than active fire-fighting. But this past January when he heard a fire radio report of a house fire two blocks away, he knew he had to help his neighbor and sprang into action.
“I am a firefighter, and that’s what firefighters do,” Connors said, “we put out fires.”
The home he responded to turned out to belong to his fire department’s former battalion chief and Connors used a garden hose left in the yard to begin extinguishing the heavy flames. He had knocked down most of the flames when the first fire truck arrived, preventing a catastrophic loss to the home.
Lieutenant Russell was honored for coaxing a nine-year old boy from the second story window of a burning structure on March 14.
He responded to the house fire with people trapped across the street from his own home. His 12-year old neighbor told him her nine-year old brother was trapped on the second floor while fire raged on the first floor below.
Lieutenant Russell saw the boy at a second story window and told him to jump. The boy hesitated, but did eventually jump to safety after being encouraged by Russell and a Brockport Police officer who was also on the scene.
Of his heroic efforts, Lieutenant Russell said at the time, “I am a volunteer firefighter and I didn’t have time to think about it. I just did what I have been trained to do.”
Family members of both honorees attended the ceremony. Connors was accompanied by his wife, Joyce, older sister Noel Myers, children Anne and Bob, Bob’s wife Patty, their daughter Sarah and her son Angelo. Lieutenant Russell was jointed by his wife, Erica and their children Ben, Emma and Skylar.
The Connors and Russell families and members of the fire department shared a standing ovation. Fire department members thank Liberty Mutual for this recognition.
10/2/11
Rotary District 7120 District Governor visits Brockport Club
(l-r), Brockport Rotary President Lorrie D’Angelo expresses appreciation for District Governor Norma Madayag-Reilly’s (Newark Rotary) support and her wise words to the membership. Assistant District Governor Bill Gormont (Greece Rotary) introduced the governor.
A native of the Philippines, Norma Reilly is particularly suited to lead a district so involved with helping the disabled as she was a teacher of the blind before coming to the U.S. She won a Rotary Ambassadorial Scholarship which began her interest in Rotary. A former president of the Newark Club and benefactor of numerous Rotary projects, she lauded the local club for its many community projects and spoke of Rotary’s current theme, “Reach Within to Embrace Humanity.”
Provided photo
10/2/11
Public invited to workshop about lofts in downtown Brockport
The Village of Brockport is undertaking a study of the feasibility and desirability of having upper-level space in its downtown historic district converted to loft apartments. The project will begin with a workshop on that topic by the Preservation League of New York State, 6:15 to 9:15 p.m., Wednesday, November 16, at the Village Hall, 49 State Street. Owners of buildings in the district and others with similar property in Monroe County or who are interested in historic preservation are especially encouraged to attend.
Following the workshop, an architectural consultant will survey buildings whose owners may participate in the project to assess their suitability, propose possible floor plans, and estimate costs. Also, the Brockport Village Board has agreed to enact a tax abatement program and the Historic Preservation Board plans to seek government grants to subsidize the costs of such conversions.
The project is being funded by a matching grant from the Certified Local Government program of the NYS office of Parks, Recreation, and Historic Preservation. For further information, contact Leslie Morelli, Village Clerk, or Bill Andrews at 727-1748 or wandrews@frontiernet.net.
10/2/11
Scouts are Color Guard
Cub Scout Packs 86 and 316, from Brockport, were the Color Guard for the Red Wing game on September 2.
The Packs’ participation in the game was sponsored by the Rochester Area Ford Dealers. The Packs presented the flags at the beginning of the game for the National Anthem.
In addition to watching the ball game, the Packs received a tour of the stadium and learned how the game is relayed and broadcast.
Provided photo
10/2/11
Lyell Avenue, Spencerport closed for road work
According to Monroe County highway department officials, Lyell Avenue in Spencerport will be closed for road work October 6 through October 12.
During that time culvert replacement work will occur and local traffic only will be allowed, up to the culvert.
This impacts the travel route from Route 259 to the Spencerport school campus. The county’s suggested detour is Gillett Road, Route 31, Route 259.
10/2/11
BISCO donates to library’s “After Hours” fundraiser
Mary Ellen Baker, president of the Seymour Library Board of Directors and co-chair of the “After Hours” fundraiser, along with co-chair Debbie Cody, accept a check for $2,500 from BISCO board member Elaine Bader.
BISCO donates money raised via the Arts Festival back to the community to finance projects normally too large for the individual service clubs (who founded the organization in 1995) to handle.
The amount donated makes BISCO a major sponsor of the event. The After Hours annual fundraiser seeks to raise the Library’s profile and its need for funds to support needs not covered by its regular funds. This year’s event is October 21 and features an evening of entertainment and refreshments. Individual tickets are only $25 and will go primarily to replace computer equipment.
Provided photo
10/2/11
BISCO Duck Derby partner shares in proceeds
Lorrie Skoog, representing the Sweden Senior Singers, accepts a check from BISCO officers (l-r) Treasurer Greg Lund, President George Dahl, Skoog, and Festival Chair Norm Knight.
The Brockport Arts Festival’s Duck Derby event raised nearly $2,500 for each of its three partners. The group will use the funds to help pay its director and provide music. The money directly benefits the approximately 50 seniors who comprise the chorus, and also all of the many people who see and hear them perform throughout the year.
Next year the Duck Derby sponsorship solicitation will take place earlier so that ticket selling can take place sooner and in more locations. Look for the duck derby tent at the August 11 & 12, 2012 Brockport Arts Festival at the intersection of Main and State. Next year’s goal is to approach closer to the record $13,000 raised nine years ago. And, yes, the Duck Derby will be once again on the Erie Canal late afternoon on festival Sunday.
10/2/11
Bergen residents to be honored at upcoming dinner
by Kristina Gabalski
The Bergen Business and Civic Association (BBCA) will honor several residents and the Bergen Fire Department during a Recognition Dinner on Saturday, October 22 at the Batavia Party House.
This is the first time in several years the dinner has been held, BBCA Vice-President Michele Smith says. “We used to do one every other year; we decided it was time to do another.”
The BBCA seeks nominations for the honor and members also make their own suggestions. The recognition is based on “community service or retirement from a town position,” Smith says.
In the past, entire village and town boards have been recognized.
This year’s honorees include:
Bob Patterson for 32 years of service as Town of Bergen Zoning and Code Enforcement Officer; Paul List for 45 years of service on the Town of Bergen Zoning Board; the Bergen Fire Department for 150 years of volunteer services; David Roggow for 30 years of service as the Town of Bergen Highway Superintendent; Anne Sapienza for her unlimited hours of service to the Wrestling Sports Boosters, BBCA and organizing the Bergen Park Festival; Lori Nelson (posthumously) for many years of dedication to the Byron-Bergen School Board, students and community service; Ahnie’s Angels for their impact and ability to reach out to the community with their fundraisers in honor of Ahnie Burke; Peggy Denton in recognition for service as Bergen Town Historian; Skomski Family - Bob, Kris, Jon and David - for all their dedication and volunteer service at the Gillam-Grant Community Center; and the Madziarz Family - Dave, Pam, Kristy Lynn, Daniel, Samantha Peters, Maria Leggo and Kim Clarke for the many years of organizing the BBCA Annual Easter Egg Hunt.
“Lori Nelson was at the top of all our lists,” Smith notes. “She was so involved with students and always cared about them. She would give seniors help with things like college paperwork.” Nelson died suddenly in October 2010.
Bergen Idol Junior Division winner Andrew Magin, a student at Byron-Bergen Central School, will be providing entertainment at the dinner, Smith adds.
A limited number of tickets are still available, she says. They are $20 per person and are available until October 8 at the Bergen Town Hall.
10/2/11
Feature Stories - Week of October 2, 2011
House reborn
By Kristina Gabalski
Somewhere in the vines and brambles at 3773 Lake Road, Clarkson, Betty Nilsson and Dave Joseph found the magnificent Greek Revival brick home they have restored. "Now" (above) and "Then" (right) photos provided by the owners.When Dave Joseph and his wife, Betty Nilsson, purchased the Henry Martin House in Clarkson in 2008, the historic home was in foreclosure.
The Greek Revival brick structure built in 1828 was almost invisible from Route 19 where it sits just south of Route 104 in Clarkson Corners. Wisteria clung to much of the exterior and tree branches literally were lying on the roof.
“You couldn’t see the north wing at all. There were skylights hacked into the roof and three satellite dishes nailed to the roof - all covered by trees and wisteria,” Betty Nilsson says. “The side porch had a collapsed roof and the pillars had been knocked right off the porch. You couldn’t even get in the door.”
Betty Nilsson and Dave Joseph pose next to the oldest fireplace in the former keeping room of the 1828 Greek Revival brick home. The beehive oven is to the right of the main fireplace. Betty is holding the door open that would be used to close it off. Photograph by Kristina Gabalski. Chipmunks and squirrels were using the interior spaces to store hordes of walnuts.
“People who looked at the property were disgusted,” Betty, a real estate agent, notes.
But that’s all in the past now. Over the last three years, the couple have lovingly and meticulously restored the home - which is on the National Register of Historical Places - to its former glory and are preparing to place it on the market.
Dave Joseph restored the interior woodwork by hand - baseboards, windows, the elegant stair railing, and the American chestnut floors that had curled in some places and buckled in others from excessive basement moisture. Walls that had been put up during past renovations were pulled down - sometimes revealing old doorways. Some ceilings were raised and a new, modern kitchen was created in what was once the woodshed in the north wing. Two new full baths were put in upstairs; a new half bath was installed on the first floor.
The house also has all new wiring, insulation and a separate furnace for the second floor.
“We want it to be old, but livable for today,” Betty says. “We tried so hard to get the right blend of the old with the new. It’s a real trick to make it livable for today.”
The new kitchen was created in the historic home's former woodshed so that the integrity of the other parts of the house would be maintained. Special features include exposed ceiling beams and original window panes. Photograph by Kristina Gabalski.The barn/carriage house in back proved to be a treasure trove of old fixtures - such as metal door latches and hardware - that was original to the house. The porch columns were also stored there.
Restoration work included clearing the lot of nearly 40 full grown trees. Porches were re-built and new landscaping surrounds the house.
It’s all been a learning experience for the couple, who also researched the history of ownership of the property
Betty explains that the house was added onto three times. The oldest part of the house is at the rear of the current structure. The final addition included the current facade and porch, now reunited with its original columns.
Dave says the front door is “one of a kind.” It features a narrow fan light above the door and side lights with strips of bent wood - not metal - forming the muntins between the panes of glass.
Betty and Dave did a tremendous amount of research during the restoration process. “You have to be a detective,” Betty says. The couple also turned to local experts and residents for guidance and advice. “The people at Genesee Country Village have been great,” Betty says. “The local people have also been a great resource.”
The front door is now accessible and welcoming in many ways and features muntins made of wood, not metal. Photograph by Kristina Gabalski.The home’s oldest fireplace was found intact in what Betty says was once the keeping room. It includes a beehive oven. “They would make the bread first and then the pies and then finish the baking with bread pudding,” Dave and Betty say.
The American chestnut floors in the home’s front parlor and entry way show an interesting piece of history. Betty explains that American chestnuts died out following an infestation of a borer insect. The floor boards show tiny tunnels the insects made in the wood. “The end of the American chestnut is right here,” she notes.
10/2/11
Kendall Community Scarecrow Festival is October 8
Kendall’s Annual Scarecrow Festival at the Kendall Community Park is scheduled for Saturday, October 8. The Festival runs from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. and includes a scavenger hunt, face painting, storytelling, a pumpkin seed spitting contest, hair painting, scarecrow building, Twistin’ Tim - the balloon man, Richard Hughson - the stilt walking magician and a variety of musical entertainment.
“The great part about all these exciting activities,” said Becky Charland, director of the Festival, “is that they are all free!”
As always, the Festival site will be surrounded by the Community’s Scarecrow displays. This year’s theme is ‘Your Favorite Decade or Year.”
The Festival this year begins with the Kendall Fire Department’s Pancake Breakfast at 8 a.m. and there is a Quilt Trail bike run throughout the day. Food and craft vendors will also be there.
“Everyone should stop by and join the fun,” said Charland. “You’ll get to vote for your favorite scarecrow, there’s always lots of delicious food available and we’ve decorated some antique tractors with flowers and pumpkins, so there’ll be lots of good photo opportunities with your kids - bring your camera.”
For information about the festival, including entering your own scarecrow in the contest or to become a sponsor for the event, go to www.townofkendall.com.
10/2/11
A labor of love: Restoring our first home to its former glory
by Terra Osterling
“I’m afraid to touch it.”
This circa 1920 American Foursquare with an enclosed front porch and full attic has made a gracious first home and provided lots of projects.Photograph by Mark Osterling.Those words spoken by our home inspector as he was crouched over the galvanized steel pipe supplying water to our soon-to-be home sent chills through us. Our agent had made our offer just days before and we were getting the place checked top to bottom.
We were first time homebuyers 10 years ago when we found our gem – an 80 year old American Foursquare with an enclosed front porch and full attic. But along with hardwood floors and gumwood trim also comes galvanized steel water supply lines. As Realtor Lippa suggests, we made our offer contingent upon the home inspector’s report – if anything significant came up with the structure or mechanics, we could request repairs or drop the deal altogether.
Dick Lippa, a local Century 21 residential real estate agent with 34 years of experience, recommends a home inspection for every property he sells. “No home is perfect,” he says, “and you should always get the major stuff checked: roof, structural, and mechanics.”
Our home inspector had found a big contingency.
A galvanized steel water supply pipe corrodes over 80 years (which is why copper became preferred beginning in the 1950s). It could, according to our home inspector, “blow” at any time. The result would be two feet of water in the basement before we knew it.
The plumber we brought in for a second opinion raised the same red flag. Armed with this information, our agent returned to the seller and requested that they replace the water supply line, all the way to the connection at the street, with copper pipe. If they refused we could drop the deal, but they would be required to disclose the issue to potential buyers. In the end, the seller replaced the pipe as we requested, saving us $1,500 and a huge headache.
Aside from the water pipe issue, our boiler was a solid unit that required only a tune-up, we had about five to 10 years on the roof (we got eight years before a preemptive replacement), and most of the electrical had been updated at least in the 1970s.
Stripping paint from trim and mantels in older homes requires basic equipment and lots of elbow grease. Photo by Mark OsterlingCosmetics were another story. About 3/4 of our wood trim had been painted, including the built-in bookcase and mantel around our fireplace.
Returning the wood trim to its former glory has been a labor of love. My husband spent those first couple of months stripping paint from the trim and mantel boards he had crow-barred off of the walls – chemical stripper, heat gun and scrapers were followed by three grits of sandpaper and a painstaking session with a metal dental pick. We later found a local wood refinisher who will “dip” painted wood trim (as well as doors and other large painted wood items) into a chemical bath for about $5 a foot. Not cheap, but efficient and certainly less toxic than the at-home version. Many coats of stain and polyurethane later, we have completely restored original living room trim, bookcases, mantel, newel post and staircase railing.
Expenses for updates aside, older homes tend to be smaller and can be lower priced which is a great combination for the first time buyer, and the current market is good according to Lippa. He reports that there is a lot to choose from and that mortgage rates are among the lowest he has seen in his entire career. He also points out that while “the affordability is there, your credit must be better than in the past.” Fortunately, you can get a lot of house for your money when buying an older home.
The same economic climate that has encouraged low interest rates has also spurred the second-hand and salvage business. Just like starting out with an old car, you learn quickly how to take care of an old house; namely, where to find spare parts. It’s not as difficult as you might think to replace a period door, doorknob, or lock. The same goes for light fixtures, radiators, bath fixtures and even wood trim. All (and more) can be purchased at the classified ads in local and regional newspapers, area salvage shops, on the internet or even picked up from the curb if you have a sharp eye
Our next project? Time warping our bathroom back to the 1920s. We even have a spotless claw foot bathtub at the ready – purchased for a song on the internet, plus the will to move it!
Editor’s note: The author and her husband still live in their “first” home. In addition to wood trim restoration, they have also replaced all their light switches with reproduction push-button units, installed hall light fixtures salvaged from an old church, and splurged on a metal roof.
10/2/11
Boy Scouts help restore Smith-Dunbar Pioneer Cemetery in Parma
Eagle Scout candidate James Brumbaugh organized the effort to restore the Smith-Dunbar Pioneer Cemetery in Parma. Provided photoThe Parma-Hilton Historical Society received a major boost in its efforts to restore the Smith-Dunbar Pioneer Cemetery the weekend of August 25 and 26.
The cemetery is located at the intersection of North Avenue and Dunbar Road just north of the Village of Hilton
Eagle Scout candidate James Brumbaugh of Hilton Boy Scout Troop 99 organized his Eagle Scout Project to help the Society in its efforts to improve the condition of the cemetery. Guided by Town Historian Thomas Burger and John Toal, Brumbaugh organized volunteers to build and paint a new sign as well as remove weeds and replant two gardens. In addition, 45 gravestones were straightened and 191 head and footstones cleaned over a two-day period. In all, 21 volunteers logged over 127 hours assisting with the project. Brumbaugh received donations of materials for the project from 84 Lumber, Sherwin-Williams Paints and Green Acres Nursery.
Weeding, trimming, planting and stone repair greatly improved the historic Smith-Dunbar Pioneer Cemetery. Provided photoAccording to the Society, most of the stones were placed in the 1800s and at least one Revolutionary War veteran is buried in the cemetery. All of the stones have been cataloged. Further restoration efforts planned by the Society’s members include professional repair of numerous broken stones and the wrought iron fencing surrounding two family plots. The Town of Parma provides routine maintenance limited to mowing and trimming. Additional work relies on the efforts of volunteers.
Join Scouts
Cub Scout Packs (ages 6 to 10) and Boy Scout Troops (ages 11 to 17) located in the area welcome new members at any time. Visit www.senecawaterways.org and click on Lighthouse District for contact information to obtain the location of packs and troops.
Scout Troop 99 meets on Mondays at 7 p.m. at the Merton-Williams Middle School Large Cafeteria (school days only, entrance near the swimming pool, with parking behind the school).
Provided information
10/2/11
Sports News - Week of October 2, 2011
BROCKPORT
Blue Devils cap comeback
by Warren Kozireski
Natalie LaCourt took first place in the 100-yard backstroke while Jami Barber and Shannon Slattery finished 1-2 in the 100-yard breaststroke to help Brockport overcome a late deficit and defeat visiting Rush-Henrietta 95-90 in girls swimming.
LaCourt won in 1:03.71 while Barber finished in 1:15.79. Four other swimmers took top honors in their individual events: Emily Briggs the 200-yard individual medley in 2:24.05, Catherin Schultheis the 50-yard freestyle in :25.47, Brittney Champagne the 200-yard freestyle in 2:02.20 and Hailey Beers won the diving with 170.70 points.
The only relay team for the Blue Devils to win was in the meet-opening 200-yard medley with LaCourt, Barber, Briggs and Slattery taking first with a time of 1:59.99.
10/2/11
Altobelli, Humphrey score in win
by Warren Kozireski
Freshman Paul Altobelli (Gates Chili) scored his first collegiate goal in the first half and senior Brian Humphrey found the net in the second as Brockport defeated Buffalo State 2-0 in their men’s soccer conference opener.
Altobelli beat a defender to the corner at 18:36 of the first half to stake the Golden Eagles to a 1-0 lead with an unassisted goal.
“It’s good to see new players get infused into the chemistry of the team,” said Brockport head coach Gary LaPietra. “Paul is feisty with a good touch around the net, so it was just a matter of time before he got his first goal. He looks to score and we need more of that on the team.”
Bergen native Humphrey gave the Golden Eagles an insurance goal in the final five minutes with an unassisted goal on a bullet from 25 yards out that slipped through the Buffalo State goalkeepers’ hands.
Senior Kyle Sauln made just two saves in picking up his fourth shutout of the season.
“Kyle has been spot on and has worked harder than anyone else on the team,” said LaPietra. “He is confident and we have done a great job on defense with the simple things in front of him.
“He’s been around for four years and played some big games for us even as a freshman.”
Brockport improved their record to 4-2-1 overall and 1-0-0 in SUNYAC. They are on the road for five consecutive conference games before returning home October 21-22 versus Potsdam and Plattsburgh - the final two games of the regular season.
10/2/11
BYRON-BERGEN
Bees sweep “Day of Soccer”
by Warren Kozireski
Byron-Bergen made a first-half goal by Kathryn Springsteen stand up in a 1-0 win for the girls and Austin Richardson’s goal in the second overtime lifted the boys to a 3-2 victory as the Bees swept Holley during their Homecoming “Day of Soccer.” The day featured a modified game and two junior varsity contests prior to the two varsity matches.
In the girls’ contest, Springsteen scored from the left side of the box into the right corner of the net after taking a pass from Rachel Kobel to stake the Bees to the 1-0 first half lead and all the offense they would need.
The Hawks had a pair of scoring chances over the final five minutes, but Delaney Williams sailed a direct kick from 25 yards out high in the 75th minute and Rachel Oliver’s arcing shot from 35 yards out was stopped in the 77th minute.
Sophomore goalkeeper Kristen Bailey made four saves in registering the shutout for the Bees while Holley keeper Taylor Zona kept her team close with 13 saves.
In the boys’ contest, Byron-Bergen jumped out to a 2-0 lead with goals less than a minute apart over the first six minutes of the contest.
Richardson passed to Clayton Lovelace whose shot from the right side of the box glanced off a leg and into the net at 4:51. Then Jamie Maskell sent Lovelace on a breakaway for their second goal about 40 seconds later.
Holley pulled to within one in the 28th minute when Sage Hodge was pulled down in the box. The ensuing penalty kick was converted by Zack Clark to cut the Bees lead to 2-1.
Then with just 6:02 remaining in regulation, Holley junior Nick Winkley came off the bench as a sub following a yellow card to a teammate and immediately headed in a rebound after Clark’s corner kick was initially headed on net by Will Barniak.
In double overtime, the Bees’ Josh Lathan’s indirect kick from 40 yards out following an injury stoppage was headed inside the far right post by Richardson for the game-winner at 93:37.
10/2/11
CHURCHVILLE-CHILI
C-C’s Pavone, Swan net county honors
Luke Pavone and Ellie Swan have garnered county-wide recognition while representing Churchville-Chili on the soccer field. Pavone, a junior midfielder and forward, was named Monroe County Division II Player of the Week for September 2 to 10 and Swan, a senior midfielder and forward, earned the same honors for the week of September 12.
Pavone was honored for his play against Hilton and Olympia, during which he scored two goals and notched four assists. With great play by Pavone and his teammates, Churchville-Chili shut out Hilton and Olympia with scores of 5-0 and 6-0, respectively.
For his first assist of the season, Pavone’s pass to teammate Tashko Strembenis was converted into a goal 25 minutes into the first half against Hilton. In the same contest, Pavone netted his first goal of 2011 on an unassisted shot that hit the back of the net in the 36th minutes.
Pavone played a role in each of the first four goals by the Saints against Olympia, scoring one and assisting on three. Chris Shea scored on an assist from Pavone just three minutes into the game and Pavone followed with a goal of his own in the 17th minute. The second-year varsity player found familiar feet in Strembenis and Shea for his third and fourth assists of the season.
In the team’s season-opening game at home against Olympia, just six minutes into the game, Swan assisted on a Carly Zimmerman goal, the first goal of the season for the Saints and the opening goal of the game. Swan wasn’t finished setting her teammates up for success as she connected with Miranda Colon in the 35th minute to put the Saints up 2-0. Olympia answered back with a goal in the second half but Churchville-Chili kept its lead and won the game, 2-1.
After defeating host Spencerport 1-0, Swan and the Saints headed into the Rangers’ tournament championship match against Sutherland. The competition was fierce under the lights and scoreless through the first half. Sutherland netted the first goal of the game 30 minutes into the second half and Churchville-Chili needed to answer back. With five minutes left in the game, Swan served the ball to Claire Benson. Benson shot it past the keeper, and the Saints tied the game. The match ended in a 1-1 tie.
10/2/11
Riga youth to compete in Punt, Pass & Kick sectionals
On Saturday, September 17, Riga Recreation held its 5th annual “NFL Punt, Pass & Kick” competition for boys and girls at Sanford Road Park.
The players compete to see how far they can punt, pass and kick the football and the total footage of all three events determines the winners.
After all contestants completed the three events, the following boys and girls were chosen to represent the Town of Riga in the next stage of PPK competition (the sectionals) at Sahlen Field on October 22 at 9 a.m. The top finishers in this event will represent the Rochester area at Ralph Wilson Stadium in November.
Riga contestants
Girls - 8-9 years old - Jillian Menzie
Girls - 10-11 years old - Abby Pitcher
Girls - 12-13 years old - Audrey Farnsworth
Boys - 6-7 years old - Hunter Warax
Boys - 8-9 years old - Chris Ter Haar
Boys - 10-11 years old - Noah Letizia
Boys - 12-13 years old - Austin Drengo
Boys - 14-15 years old - Tyler Pitcher
Provided information
10/2/11
HILTON
Cadets win at 4th annual Dig Pink
by Warren Kozireski
Hilton rebounded from a 24-21 deficit in the deciding fifth game to defeat Brockport 27-25 and defeat the Blue Devils three-games-to-two in girls volleyball.
The Cadets had little trouble over the first two games winning 25-16 and 25-22 with senior Kate Steger and junior Maria Jackson setting the early offensive pace.
But Brockport tied the match with a 25-19 win in game three as Courtney Blocker registered a kill and a block over the final five points and a hard-fought 25-23 victory in game four as senior Emma Gira knocked down three of her nine kills.
Game five was a see-saw affair that was tied on fifteen different occasions. Brockport had Hilton at game point with a score of 24-21 before the Cadets rallied on a kill several Brockport mistakes and consecutive kills by Steger and Hayley Falleson to win.
Brockport, now 3-6, was led by Blocker’s ten kills and six blocks. Abby Sime handed out 15 assists and Heather Yu added nine digs.
For the Cadets, Falleson led the team with 21 kills and 14 digs with Steger and Jackson each with 14 kills and the setter combination of Miranda DiMaria and Jessica Swanson netting 49 assists as they improved to 9-1 on the season.
Hilton hosted their 4th annual “Dig Pink” event during the match with donations and profits from T-shirt sales going to the American Cancer Society.
10/2/11
SPENCERPORT
Rangers douse Lightning
by Warren Kozireski
Spencerport finished first in all but two events and went on to defeat Greece 102-66 in girls swimming.
Meghan Tyler took a pair of firsts - in the 200-yard individual medley in 2:20.76 and the 100-yard butterfly in 1:03.99.
Chelsea Spiegel won the 200-yard freestyle in 2:10.71, Nicole Almeter won the 100-yard freestyle in 1:01.08, Jamie Cerretto the 100-yard backstroke in 1:09.15 and Samantha Walker the 100-yard breaststroke in 1:13.22.
The 200-yard medley relay team of Cerretto, Walker, Tyler and Erica King finished first in 2:02.19; Walker, King, Allison D’Angelo and Spiegel won the 200-yard freestyle relay in 1:51.12 and Spiegel, Samantha Brown, Almeter and Tyler finished off the meet with a win in 4:04.78 in the 400-yard freestyle relay.
10/2/11
School News - Week of October 2, 2011
BROCKPORT
Walk to School Day” October 5 brings a world event to Brockport
Wednesday, October 5, is set for the sixth annual “Walk to School Day” in the Brockport School District. A similar event takes place that day in 40 countries, involving millions of children, parents, and community leaders. Organized internationally since 2000, it is a celebration and promotion of the many benefits of walking or biking to school to improve the health and well-being of children. The event is supported in the states and communities by the National Center for Safe Routes to School.
Dr. Jim Goetz founded Brockport’s walk in 2006 with over a year of advance work with community and school officials. He was greatly concerned about new reports on childhood obesity. Goetz has been the Brockport School District doctor since 1993. He is a member of Walk! Bike! Brockport. The organization has provided major support, including the purchase of vests for 60 greeters three years ago.
Goetz currently is Chief of Pediatrics at Lakeside Hospital and sees pediatric patients at Oak Orchard Health Center. He has organized the event each year. “It’s an awareness activity,” he says. “I want the kids to say, ‘This is fun, can we do this again next year,’ and perhaps find ways to continue walking to school.”
There are new changes in this year’s event on October 5. Two previous routes have been dropped because they were hardly used, Goetz says. Main Street will be the main route, with parents parking in the former Ryan’s parking lot and walking children up Main Street to turn right at Centennial. There will be “greeters” at each intersection, including elected officials and school officials offering a welcome and encouragement. Goetz said the west side of Main Street will be “absolutely fine” for the walk, while final stages of road construction continue. Also, the round-about at the corner near Ryan’s parking lot will not be started until mid-October.
Sweden Village students will walk directly from Sweden Lane across Main Street to Ellis Drive that leads to the school campus. Also new this year, there will not be an earlier schedule of walkers for middle and high school students. Their participation has been minimal, Goetz said, and he is going to work on encouraging their involvement.
Goetz says the schools have done a good job in continuing walking or other exercise activity after “Walk to School Day.” As examples, he says Ginther will continue Fitness Fridays and a month-long walking event in May. At Hill School the whole school walks at a certain period on Mondays and Thursdays.
The Brockport School District web site will have details posted. Flyers will also be distributed in the community and for students to take home from school.
Provided information
10/2/11
Brockport Board of Education celebrating “Brockport’s Best”
Brockport’s Board of Education is rolling out a new format for their “Brockport’s Best Award,” honoring outstanding achievement. Anyone affiliated with the district (for example, BCSD staff member, administrator, parent, student, community member or alumnus) may now nominate an individual or group associated with the district from the local to the national level, for the award.
The board recognized 29 people since the program started in the 2010-2011 school year and looks forward to continuing the recognition program during Board of Education meetings.
“The community of Brockport succeeds when the Brockport Central School District succeeds,” said Mike Andriatch, vice president of the Board of Education. “We, as a board, want to recognize excellence in our community among our many constituents, including students, teachers, staff, volunteers, alumni and community members. Anyone who makes Brockport’s schools a better place to learn is a winner in our book.”
The first Brockport’s Best awards this year will be presented during the October 4 Board of Education meeting at 7 p.m. in the District Office Board of Education Room. All board meetings are open to the public (except for those exempted by law). A meeting schedule is posted on the district’s website.
Nominations will be accepted on a continual basis and will be reviewed by the selection committee. A printable and online version of the nomination form is available at www.bcs1.org/boe. Contact Debbie Moyer, communications specialist, at 637-1943/debbie.moyer@bcs1.org for information or to have a form mailed.
10/2/11
October 2011 Weddings
Stacy J. Kesselring - Daniel E. Driscoll
Mr. and Mrs. James (Joyce) Kesselring of Hilton and Mr. and Mrs. Edward (Christine) Driscoll of Chili are delighted to announce the engagement of Stacy J. Kesselring and Daniel E. Driscoll.
Stacy is a 2001 graduate of Hilton High School and a 2006 graduate of Monroe Community College. She is pursuing her bachelor’s degree at St. John Fisher College and is employed as an Agency Account Coordinator at Paychex.
Daniel is a 2001 graduate of The Aquinas Institute and obtained a bachelor’s degree in business administration in 2005 from St. Bonaventure University. Daniel is a Financial Advisor in Rochester with Ameriprise Financial Services, Inc.
A June 2012 wedding is planned.
Caitlin J. Weber - Christopher C. Law
William and Robin Weber of Hilton are pleased to announce the engagement of their daughter Caitlin J. Weber to Christopher C. Law, son of Craig and Rosemary Law of Catonsville, Maryland.
Caitlin is a 2006 graduate of Hilton High School and a 2010 graduate of Nazareth College of Rochester with a bachelor’s degree in music education. She is employed as the School-Aged Services and Camp Coordinator at the YMCA in Baltimore County, Maryland.
Chris is a 2005 graduate of Catonsville High School in Maryland and 2009 graduate of Nazareth College of Rochester with a degree in business administration and sports management. He is employed as a Payroll Sales Representative at Paychex in Baltimore, Maryland.
Their wedding is planned for October 7, 2012.
Shannon K. Heckert - Eric M. McDowell
George and Cathy Heckert of Brockport are pleased to announce the engagement of their daughter, Shannon K. to Eric M. McDowell, son of Fred and Carina McDowell of Indianapolis, Indiana.
Miss Heckert is a graduate student at Pensacola Christian College, pursuing her master’s degree in education administration.
Mr. McDowell is also a graduate student, pursuing his master of divinity degree at the Pensacola Theological Seminary.
A June 2012 wedding is planned.
Bower - Thulin
Elizabeth B. Bower and Jamie E. Thulin were united in marriage September 4, 2011.
Servais - Frank
Justin Servais and Ryan Frank announce the marriage of their parents, Dawn M. Servais and Robert J. Frank, Jr. Dawn is the daughter of Cathy and Jeff Costanza of Albion. Robert is the son of Ginnie Howardson of Lake Havasu, Arizona and the late Robert J. Frank, Sr.
The couple were married May 7, 2011 at the Terry Hills Country Club, Batavia.
Jennifer Carr was maid of honor and Ann Bates acted as bridesmaid.
The groom’s attendants were best man Justin Servais and Wade Walker, Sr. with ringbearer Ryan Frank and usher Gaje Papponetti.
The bride and groom reside in Holley and are planning a honeymoon trip to Hawaii in 2012.
Obituaries - Week of October 2, 2011
Death Notices for the Week of October 2, 2011
AREA
•Sanzotta, Angela (Ferrari), died September 23, 2011. Predeceased by her husband, Nicholas Sanzotta and brother-in-law, Robert Everett. Survived by her children, Vincent Sanzotta, Dominic (Nancy) Sanzotta, Tino Sanzotta, Nicholas (Priscilla) Sanzotta and Frank Sanzotta; grandchildren, Elizabeth (Alan) Taylor, Melisa (John) Stallone, Jennifer, Melinda, Dominic (Angelica), Nicholas; great-grandchildren, Alanha, Gabriel and Ava Taylor, Olivia and Juliana Stallone; brother, Frank (Ada) Ferrari; sister, Phyllis Everett of New Mexico; sister-in-law, Angie (Gene) Morell; many nieces, nephews and dear friends.
Her Funeral Mass was celebrated September 27 at Holy Apostles Church, Rochester. Interment, Holy Sepulchre Cemetery. Donations can be made to Holy Apostles Church, 7 Austin Street, Rochester, NY 14606 in her memory.
BATAVIA
•Suhr, George E., 89, formerly of Barre Center, died September 24, 2011 at Strong Memorial Hospital. He was U.S. Army Veteran serving through three wars and also worked at Delco in Rochester for 30 years until his retirement. He was predeceased by his wife Doris; a daughter Debbie, two sisters, and a brother-in-law. He is survived by two children, George (Linda) Suhr Jr., and Terry (Kim) Hellert both of Albion; grandchildren, Jessica Suhr, Ceara Ryan, Daniel Spriegel; two brothers, Fred Suhr, Eddie Lochner; sister, Thelma Acciari; sisters- and brothers-in-law, Velma (Irving) Banker, Parrt (Billy) Wells, Hank (Lois) DePoty; nieces and nephews.
Services were held September 28 at the Merrill-Grinnell Funeral Home. Interment in St. Joseph’s Cemetery with full military honors.
BERGEN
•Cummings, Jimee L., September 22, 2011. Jimee is survived by her husband, Elmer E. Cummings; children, Jim (Lynn) Lasken and Gene (Patty) Cummings; grandchildren, Jenni (David) Andreas, John Hunt, Jamie Barron, Caitlin Cummings and Nathan Cummings; cousins and dear friends.
Her Memorial Service was held September 26 at Walker Brothers Funeral Home, Inc., Churchville. Interment, Creekside Cemetery. Contributions can be made to Bergen Volunteer Fire Department in her memory.
BROCKPORT
•Deitzel, Debra Ann, September 25, 2011. Predeceased by her parents, Ellyn and George Deitzel; brothers, Fred and Thomas; sister, Sandra all of Elmira; Debra is survived by her daughter, Shannon Fedyk and soon to be son-in-law, Steven Sloan; granddaughter, Arianna Sloan; soon to be grandson, Landen Sloan; companion, Richard Beehler; five dogs, Chloe, Elvis, Stripe, Salita and Tickle.
A Memorial Service was held October 1 at the North Ridge Church, Rochester. Donations can be made to the Humane Society at Lollypop Farm, 99 Victor Road, Fairport, NY 14450 in her memory.
•DiPasquale, Domenic S., Suddenly September 21, 2011. Survived by his devoted wife of 34 years Joanmarie DiPasquale; daughter, Junia DiPasquale; siblings, Rose Torres, Joe DiPasquale, Matilda Fatasia, Steven DiPasquale; nieces, nephews, extended family and many dear friends.
A Memorial Service was held September 27 at the Abundant Grace Church, Rochester. Interment will be held privately. Donations can be made to Abundant Grace Church, 4292 Lake Avenue, Rochester 14612 in his memory.
•Donovan, Marjory (Bunny), Died September 15, 2011. Predeceased by her husband, Burton J. Donovan. Survived by her sons: James (Constance) of South Carolina, William (Linda) of Penfield, and Douglas (Anne) of Spencerport; grandchildren, Sommer, Shannon, Kristin, Jennifer, Kyle and Ryan Donovan; and two great-grandchildren, Anna and Donovan; sister, Muriel Rollins of Rochester.
A Memorial Service was held September 28 at St. Luke’s Episcopal Church, Brockport. Private interment, Lakeview Cemetery. Contributions can be made to Lakeside Memorial Hospital or St. Luke’s Church, Brockport in her memory.
•Sheffield, Carol S., September 27, 2011. Survived by her husband, Donald; her children, Amy Sheffield (Chuck Whalen), Jennifer Tricamo (Jayson Martusciello), Holly Sheffield (Gary Frye); two brothers, Jerold (Noreen) and Charles (Melissa) Morgante; two grandchildren.
Services were held September 30 at the Thomas E. Burger Funeral Home, Inc., Hilton. Private interment, Lake View Cemetery.
•VanMarter, Skeeter, On September 23, 2011 at age 81. Predeceased by his daughter, Karen Packard. He is survived by his spouse, Mary Marone; five sons; three daughters; 22 grandchildren; three great-grandchildren; sister, Frances Lucas. He attended East Palmyra School and was a graduate of Edison Tech. Skeeter was a US Army veteran.
A Memorial Service was held October 1 at New Comer Funeral Home, Greece. Private interment, East Palmyra Cemetery. Donations can be made to Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center, 633 Third Avenue, 28th Floor, New York, NY 10017 in his memory.
CHILI
•Vinciquerra, Anita, died September 28, 2011, age 100. Predeceased by her husband, John and granddaughter, Joyce. Survived by her sons, Vincent (Frances) and Samuel (Erma); grandchildren, Linda Fama, John and Kevin; great-grandchildren, John, Kyle, Briana and Diana; sisters, Ann Lettro and Margaret (Tom) Williams; brother, Joseph Peterson; several nieces and nephews.
Her Funeral Mass was said October 1 at St. Helen’s Church, Gates. Interment, Holy Sepulchre Cemetery. Donations can be made to St. Helen’s Church, 310 Hinchey Road, Rochester 14624 in her memory.
CHURCHVILLE
•Unger, Robert H., age 101, died September 22, 2011 at Highland Hospital. He was a retired engineer with Talon, Inc. of Meadville, Pennsylvania, and had also operated an Antique business for many years in Meadville.
He is survived by his wife, Virgilia of Rochester; a daughter, Mrs. Richard (Gayle) Kelly of Churchville; two grandchildren, Melissa Kelley and Diane (Dennis) Mead; and three great-grandchildren.
Burial will be in Meadville Pennsylvania.
GREECE
•Santiago, Noel, September 23, 2011. Predeceased by his parents, Beatrice Torres and Ismael Santiago. Survived by his loving wife, Sherri; children, Allina, Brooklyn and Nicholas; many aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces and nephew. Noel was a machinist at Polymer Engineered Products and a referee with the Rochester Kickball League.
Funeral Services were held at the convenience of the family. Interment Holy Ssepulchre Cemetery.
HAMLIN
•Sullivan, Shirley G., September 25, 2011. Predeceased by her husband, Lyle O. Sullivan and daughter-in-law, Bonnie Sullivan. She is survived by her sons, Daniel (Laura) Sullivan and Kyle Sullivan; grandchildren, Barry, Amy, Daniel Jr. and Eric; great-grandchildren, Lillian and Jaydan; brothers, Frank (Judith) Gilbert, Jr. and Paul (Monica) Gilbert; dear friend and cousin Rita Bassett; many dear friends.
Her Funeral Mass was celebrated September 29 at St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Church, Hamlin. Interment, Holy Sepulchre Cemetery. Contributions can be made to Lollypop Farm, 99 Victor Road, Fairport 14450 in her memory.
HILTON
•Van Dorn, Allen M., September 24, 2011, age 97. Survived by his wife, Violet; his daughters, Barbara Pedeville, Ruth Carter and Patti (Ron) Olivas; grandchildren, Michael (Karen), Scott (Kathi), Todd (Barb), David (Barb Golamb) Pedeville, Amy and Stephen Carter, Julie Solis, Jamie (Lorinda), Eric (Tia); great-grandchildren, Corey, David Jr., Katie, Eric, Shaunna, Maxx, Jacob, Josh, Zachary, Cody, Hunter, Holden, Mateo, Jaida, Noah, Zachary, Miyah, Summer, Lana and Jasmine. Predeceased by his son-in-law, Frank Pedeville.
Services were held October 1 at Kingdom Hall of Jehovah’s Witnesses, Sweden Walker Road. Private interment, Parma Union Cemetery. Contributions can be made to Lifetime Hospice or Hamlin Congregation of Jehovah’s Witnesses in his memory.
•Wadsworth, Arietta Jean, September 22, 2011, age 94. Predeceased by her husband, C. Morton Wadsworth, 1986. Survived by her children, Paul (Phyllis Wadsworth, Carol (Bob) Toner and Gail Wadsworth (Peter Markham); her brother Elmer Walters; her sister, Virginia Jacobson; 12 grandchildren; several great-grandchildren; nieces, nephews and friends.
Funeral Services were held September 25 at the Thomas E. Burger Funeral Home, Inc., Hilton. Contributions can be made to a charity of one’s choice in her memory.
•Wilson, Richard C., died September 25, 2011 at age 50. Predeceased by his mother Helen Wilson. He is survived by his loving wife, Sharon Wilson; father, Charles Wilson; daughters, Heather (Brett) Berry and Amanda (Paul) Kodanko; grandchildren, Hanna, Alex, Kayden and Jacob; brother Lee (Barbara) Wilson; sister, Barb (Ed) Dickerson; father and mother-in-law, Ward (Dorothy) Bailey; brothers-in-law, Ward “Russ” (Judy) Bailey and James (Linda) Bailey; several nieces, nephews and cousins; many dear friends.
His Memorial Service was held September 29 at First Bible Baptist Church, Hilton. Private interment, Elmgrove Cemetery. Contributions can be made to Grace and Truth Sports Park, c/o First Bible Baptist Church, 990 Manitou Road, Hilton 14468 in his memory.
KENDALL
•Vito, George A., September 22, 2011. George is predeceased by his wife Sarah Vito and sister Mary Palumbo. He is survived by his loving companion Pat Howell; children Dr. George Vito, Dr. Richard Vito and John Vito; grandson Gavin Vito; brothers, John (Angela) Vito, Frank (Eileen) Vito; brother-in-law Peter Palumbo; several nieces, nephews, cousins and dear friends.
His Funeral Mass was celebrated at St. Lawrence Church, Greece. Interment, Holy Sepulchre Cemetery. Donations can be sent to United Spinal Association, 75-20 Astoria Blvd., East Elmhurst, NY 11370 in his memory.
NORTH CHILI
•Barbato, Ann C., September 27, 2011. Predeceased by her husband, Samuel J. Barbato; grandson, Timothy Barbato; sister, Mary Gould. She is survived by her son, Scott (Donna) Barbato; grandchildren, Nicole and Sandra Barbato; great-grandchildren, Maximus and Tyler Barbato. Survived by several nieces and nephews; very special friend, Dawn.
Services were held October 1 at the New Comer Funeral Home, Greece. Entombment, Holy Sepulchre Cemetery.
OGDEN
•Chapman, Thomas H. “Harry”, September 24, 2011. Predeceased by his son Ernest and daughter Joyce. Survived by his loving wife of 60 years Thelma; children George (Jane), Arleen (Frank) Seiler, Arthur (Susan), Raymond (Joanne), Terry (Micki), Valerie (Rich) Beam and Noella (Chris) Frail; 20 grandchildren; five great-grandchildren; nieces; nephews and cousins. Harry retired from GRS with 40 years of service.
A Funeral Mass was said September 30 at St. Christopher’s Church, North Chili. Burial in Holy Sepulchre Cemetery. Contributions can be made to the American Diabetes Association in his memory.
SPENCERPORT
•Freeman, Mary (Nixon), September 22, 2011 at the age of 93. Mary was predeceased by her husband, Robert Freeman, son, Robert Campbell; grandson, Michael Campbell; parents, George and Mary Nixon; her brothers, Albert and Bill Nixon and Howard Larkin; sisters, Emily Marr and Helene Larkin; Mary is survived by her grandson, Douglas (Margaret) Campbell; great grandchildren, Kyle, Elizabeth and Melanie; her sister, Harriet Ireland; several nieces and nephews.
A Memorial Service was held October 1 at Ogden Presbyterian Church, Spencerport. Interment, Fairfield Cemetery. Contributions can be made to Ogden Presbyterian Church or Lollypop Farm in her memory.
WALKER
•Kelso, Annabelle E., September 20, 2011 age 87. Predeceased by her husband, John. Survived by her children, Darlene (Rawlin) Sams, Gary (Dixie), Everett (Holly), Paul (Linda) and Mark (Debbie) Kelso; nine grandchildren; 13 great-grandchildren; her sister, Frances Pierce; many nieces and nephews. Also predeceased by her brother, George Kluth and her sister, Josephine Schepler.
Services were held September 27 at the Thomas E. Burger Funeral Home, Inc., Hilton. Interment, Lakeside Cemetery, Hamlin. Contributions can be made to Walker Fire Department in her memory.