2-5pm Mon.-Fri. Starting at $10! Includes entree, sliced French bread, choice of soup or salad
Consider breakfast burritos. Pre-scramble eggs with diced peppers and onions and store in containers in the refrigerator. In the morning, place the mixture onto a tortilla, top with cheese and heat in a skillet or in the microwave.
Purchase furniture that doubles as storage. Storage ottomans and benches can help clear common areas and bedrooms of clutter such as blankets and bed linens that can make rooms feel more claustrophobic. Storage furniture might not get excess items out of the house, but such furnishings can create a more comfortable, welcoming environment.
MVP? AREYOUTHE FOOTBALL MVP?
A winner will be chosen from entries to receive a $50 gift card
Mail to: GVPS: Football MVP Contest, PO Box 340, Avon, NY 14414
Postmarked by: 1/31/2025
Winner and trivia answers will be in our 2/7/2025 editions
Name: ___________________________
Phone: ___________________________
Email: ___________________________
Town: ___________________________
Sponsored by:
TEST YOUR KNOWLEDGE TO FIND OUT IF YOU’RE THIS YEAR’S FOOTBALL MVP!
1. Which two conferences compete in the NFL’s annual championship game? ___________________________________
2. Who holds the record for the most championship wins by a player? ___________________________________
3. What year was the first NFL championship game played?
4. Which team has the most championship wins?
5. What is the name of the trophy awarded to the champion?
6. Which team has made the most appearances in the NFL’s championship game? ___________________________________
7. What is the only team to go undefeated in the regular season and win the championship? ___________________________________
8. Which city has hosted the most NFL championship games?
9. What is the largest margin of victory in a championship game?
10. Which quarterback famously guaranteed a win in the 1969 championship game? ___________________________________
11. Which team was the first to win the championship in their home stadium? ___________________________________
12. What is the most-watched halftime show performance of all time? ___________________________________
13. What team scored the most points ever in a single NFL championship game? ___________________________________
14. Who was the first defensive player to win MVP in the championship? ___________________________________
Marketing that Keeps Delivering
Leave a lasting impression with eye-catching banners, branded apparel, and so much more. With 1,000s of products available, we offer a range of services tailored to meet your needs! Whether you’re planning a special event, boosting your brand visibility, or showing support for a team, we’re ready to bring your vision to life.
Did you know
Ready to show off your brand? Give us a call at (585) 226-8111 with your ideas or get inspiration at www. pennylanepromo.com and explore our products and services.
Let’s work together to make your brand shine!
Branded apparel like shirts and sweatshirts have a remarkable staying power! Most houses have an average of 30 promotional products and some promotional statistics show that roughly 40% of consumers keep their promo merch for over ten years!*
*1338tryon.com
Pen-A-Poem Contest
Submissions will be featured on our website then cast your vote for the winner out of our top 5 favorites!
• Entries Accepted: 1/24/25 to 1/3/2025
• Voting: 2/4/2025 to 2/10/2025
• Winner Announced: 2/14/2025 editions
Contest Guidelines:
Must be 18 or older. Poems must be original. GVPS employees/families are ineligible
Meet
Sweetie
Sweetie is a 15 1/2 year old Jack Russell who’s a huge Bills fan!
INTERESTING FACTS ABOUT GREYHOUNDS
Greyhounds are very fast. Some retired racing greyhounds can hit speeds as high as 45 miles per hour. While they only achieve such speeds for very short periods of time, that’s still pretty fast.
Send us a photo! and a brief write-up of your pet and we’ll feature it! Submit at: gvpennysaver.com under Share With Us or mail to: P.O. Box 340, Avon, NY 14414. Pets will be published at discretion of GVPS.
PAW’S CORNER
By Sam Marzotta
DEAR PAW’S CORNER: I adopted a puppy about two months ago. “Spencer” seemed to housetrain just fine, but for the last couple of weeks, he has been pooping on the bathroom rug. It’s not diarrhea, just regular healthy poos. He does it between walks – even though he poops as normal during walks! What is going on?
– John D. in Burlington, Vermont
DEAR JOHN: Even though Spencer seems healthy, take him to the vet to rule out any underlying health issues. In the days prior to the vet appointment, get out a notepad and write down his behaviors, what time he poops each day, if he’s doing a lot of barking –anything. Bring that to the appointment; it might give the vet additional insight.
Puppies go through phases during their growth, and it’s not too unusual to see some regression in housetraining periodically. For example, when they’re teething, or as they enter their “teen” phase at around 8 months or so, you may see a change in behavior patterns or “forgetting” commands you know they’ve learned.
If there is no health issue to worry about, focus on training. Go back to basics and teach him how to alert you when he needs to go outside. Work on his basic commands. Observe him closely when you’re at home to see whether his behavior is changing.
You may need to adjust your schedule as well. If he’s an especially young puppy, his body is changing rapidly and he may need more potty breaks than the training guide says. Be prepared to make those adjustments as you patiently retrain him. And don’t worry, he will fully housetrain, as long as you remain diligent.
Send your tips, comments or questions to ask@pawscorner.com.
COMMON CAUSES OF TOOTHACHES
TO YOUR GOOD HEALTH
By Keith Roach, M.D.
Probiotics May Help Restore Good Bacteria in the Gut
DEAR DR. ROACH: You recently wrote that you do not recommend probiotics in healthy people. I am a 78-year-old male who, three years ago, underwent an esophagectomy to remove my esophagus and part of my stomach because of cancer. I was put on 30 mg of pantoprazole, which was later increased to 40 mg. I’ve read that prolonged use of this medicine isn’t recommended. My understanding is that this medicine is used to reduce the chance of acid reflux. I have read that it also kills bacteria (both bad and good) in the stomach. I asked my primary care physician about this and whether she was OK with me starting probiotics to help restore the good bacteria. -- E.M.
ANSWER: Proton-pump inhibitors like pantoprazole are often used in people after surgical treatment for esophageal cancer. They reduce acid reflux and consequently prevent a stricture where the remainder of the esophagus meets the remainder of your stomach. While it is true that proton-pump inhibitors do have the potential for side effects with long-term use, there are times when the benefits outweigh the risks. Many esophageal cancer experts feel that the benefits outweigh the risks in esophageal survivors like you.
Long-term acid suppression does lead to changes in the gut bacteria, called the microbiome. Using probiotics to improve the quality of the microbiome has been studied, and preliminary studies showed that taking probiotics daily can get more healthy bacteria in the gut. What isn’t clear is whether this translates to better outcomes for the patient or whether any of the long-term adverse effects of proton-pump-inhibitor therapy will be reduced. It makes sense that it might help, but it is unproven as yet.
There is the potential for harm in probiotic treatment, but it’s not common. A very few cases of infection have been shown to be transmitted by probiotics. The main harm is mostly financial, since some probiotics are expensive.
DEAR DR. ROACH: I am 81 years old and in pretty good health. I often have a hard time getting to sleep and staying asleep. A couple of months ago, I was dealing with a sore lower back from overdoing yard work, so I took two ibuprofen tablets before going to bed for several nights in a row. What I noticed is that I was able to get to sleep quicker.
I have continued to take ibuprofen as a sleep aid, and it continues to help me get to sleep. But I am wondering if there might be any medical issue that could arise from the continued daily use of ibuprofen. -- J.T.N.
ANSWER: Most people don’t find that ibuprofen helps or hurts their sleep, so I don’t recommend it as a sleep aid in general. In fact, some people find that ibuprofen can be disruptive to their sleep. Others, however, find that it makes them sleepy.
In any case, the risk of two ibuprofen tablets at night, or even every day, is small. A person with a history of ulcer disease or abnormal bleeding shouldn’t take ibuprofen daily without discussing it with their doctor.
Tooth damage: Dental caries, or cavities, can cause toothache, as can tooth abscesses and tooth fractures.
Sue DeBruyne, Au.D. Doctor of Audiology
THREE WAYS TO RELIEVE ARTHRITIS PAIN
by Dr. Bob Arnot
(NAPSI) — Over the course of my career as a physician, chief medical correspondent and war correspondent, I’ve been exposed to a wide variety of pain management drugs and approaches. One thing I’ve seen is that the United States is much more reliant on taking pills for pain than the rest of the world, where topical analgesics, physical therapy and other approaches are more widely used.
A problem with pills is that many of them come with side effects that can be severe, especially if the medications are used in greater quantities or for longer than they’re supposed to be. That’s one reason for back, muscle and joint pains, I believe it’s best to start with topicals. What’s more, the Centers for Disease Control, the American College of Rheumatology and other medical experts agree it’s a safer approach.
Fortunately, if you are an arthritis sufferer and want effective relief, there are two topicals that are FDA approved the same way Ibuprofen, Naproxen Sodium and other prescription pain medicines have been through the demanding new drug application process. While both help relieve arthritis pain, it is important to know the differences between Salonpas Pain Relief Patch Large and Voltaren Arthritis Pain gel.
Salonpas Pain Relief Patch Large was the 1st topical approved by the FDA and provides relief for up to 12 hours. It begins to work in one hour and can provide clinically meaningful pain relief in the first day. Since it is a patch, the medicine is pre-measured and easy to apply. Not only does this patch help relieve arthritis pain, but it also works for back, muscle and joint pain as well.
On the other hand, Voltaren Arthritis Pain gel is not labeled for immediate relief and may take up to 7 days to help achieve relief. To apply this gel, you must first measure out an amount based on a dosing card. Voltaren is effective for up to 6 hours and should only be used for arthritis pain.
In addition to topical relief, joint and muscle pain can be treated with physical therapy. It can keep stiff joints from getting stiffer, reduce strain on joints during daily activities and help you get back to normal life without pain or difficulty.
Also helpful are hot and cold compresses. Heat is good for joint stiffness and cold compresses can ease joint pain. Just remember, don’t apply heat to a joint that’s already hot. If you feel a burning sensation in your joint, cool it with the cold compresses.
Dr. Arnot is board certified in internal medicine and an award-winning journalist, author of twelve books on nutrition and health and host of the Dr. Danger reality TV series. You can find more helpful healthcare and pain relief information from Dr. Arnot at https://us.hisamitsu/.
Jefferson Park Senior Apartments
$896/mo.
Affordable Rents - $821/mo. Includes Heat & Hot Water
Discounted Cable TV • Pet Friendly - No extra fees
Private Patios and Balconies
Resident Activities
DID YOU KNOW?
Prospective real estate investors who hope to buy, hold and rent out their investment properties should first interview potential property managers before buying homes. While it’s possible to find property managers willing to manage single-family homes or duplexes, the financial resource Bankrate.com notes that many property managers prefer to manage large apartment complexes instead. Managing properties is hard work, and without skilled property managers on their side, real estate investors may become overwhelmed by the responsibilities of taking care of their real estate investments while simultaneously trying to maintain their own residences. Before buying investment properties, prospective real estate investors should interview various local property managers or property management firms, inquiring about their fees and what is included in those fees. If the cost of hiring property managers drastically cuts into the profits investors hoped to make off their investment properties, they might be better off looking to invest their money in areas other than real estate. Prospective investors can compare the potential return on investment after the cost of property managers has been factored in to the return they might get from more traditional investments to determine if investing in real estate is a sound financial decision.
Fair Housing Statement
All real estate advertised in the Genesee Valley Penny Saver is subject to the Federal Fair Housing Act, which makes it illegal to advertise any preference, limitation, or discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, age, marital status, handicap, familial status, or national origin, or intention to make any such preference, limitation or discrimination. We will not knowingly accept any advertising for real estate which is in violation of the law. All persons are hereby informed that all dwellings advertised are available on an equal opportunity basis.
Fair Housing Enforcement Project Monroe County Legal Assistance Center 1 W. Main Street Rochester, NY 14614 (585) 325-2500 • www.lawny.org
EQUAL HOUSING OPPORTUNITY
SOUND CONTROL KEY TO A CALM, RELAXING HOME
Inside and out, life can be loud. Retreat from the hustle and bustle of the world by making your home, or specific rooms within it, a calm, relaxingsanctuary.
There’s a room in every house that could benefit from greater sound control, whether it’s a home theater, music room, studio, home office, children’s play room, bathroom, mechanical, or laundry room.Insulatingproperlywillallow you to really enjoy your home that much more and achieve a higher level of comfort.
Experts suggest selecting a dense insulation with a non-directional fiber structure to combat airborne noise such as music, speech and foot traffic. This insulation material creates an excellent sound barrier that effectively absorbs noise and reduces the transfer of sound waves from one room to another. Its resistance to fire is an added benefit that also adds passive fire protection to your home, a type of fire precaution that is part of the core of the building and will help controlfirebylimitingitsspread. Certain sound dampening measures, such as carpeting, might also help alleviate echo and reverberation, as will acoustic panels that prevent sound reflections throughout a room. With basic DIY skills, you can simply and affordably construct your own acoustic panels using a stone wool rigid board which is effective at reducing the intensity andpropagationofnoise.
STRANGE BUT TRUE
By Lucie Winborne
* The first footprints on the moon will remain there for a million years.
BIG REASONS to Shop Small
Not just on Small Business Saturday, but every day that you can. Need milk, eggs, bread, or beer? Go to the local corner store instead –Say “hey” and get to know the owner who’s paying taxes to keep your neighborhood in tip-top shape.
Get vocal on social Post pictures, tweets, and status updates of either the small business you own, or of yourself shopping at one, and be sure to use the hashtag #ShopSmall. Also write positive Yelp reviews for the small businesses you love and support. Sign up for local business’ loyalty programs – Does a local business have a customer loyalty and rewards program? Sign up for it –not only will you be supporting a local business, but you’ll get discounts and rewards for it, too.
LOYAL to LOCAL
active senior living
Here’s A Tip
BYLINE: By JoAnn Derson
* Lunchbox tip: Assemble your sandwich the night before (without veggies). Wrap in waxed paper and freeze. Add veggies and a condiment packet in a separate bag. Your sandwich will thaw by lunchtime and will stay cold!
* “Plant banana skins in your garden, just below the surface. ey rot quickly and provide nutrients for growing plants.”
-- A.R. in Ohio
* “Always keep two needles threaded, one with black and one with white. When you have a rip, a button comes off or a hem comes out of your clothes, and you are in a hurry, you can use one of these for a quick repair.” -- J.R. in Virginia
Hocus Focus
BY HENRY BOLTINOFF
BeHeard!
BRIGHTER
Thank you
Thank you to whomever turned in my wallet at the Avon Tops. It was the week before Christmas too, no less. Thank you.
KUDOS
THANK YOU to our local town/village of Avon for keeping our roads cleared so far this winter. They are always out early, late, and inbetween, helping to make sure we get to our destinations safely. We appreciate you!
Please Drive Safely and Smartly!
Please be sure that your headlights are on whenever your wipers are. It is astounding how many vehicles do not follow this LAW. It is required of drivers to use their headlights when visibility is low, at dawn and dusk, and when it's raining, snowing, or sleeting. It's not just to help you see where you're going - it's to help others see YOU/your vehicle. Pleasedrive safely and smartly!
Electric Shopping Carts
I felt bad for this elderly lady (80+). She was dropped off at the door. She could hardly walk or stand and had an oxygen tank. She had to wait, quite a while, until an electric handicap cart was brought in from outside by an employee. Everyone of the handicap carts were being used by other people. Most walked ok from their vehicles that were parked far out in the lot. Yes, some do require the use of a handicap cart but it amazes me that they feel more entitled than to someone who really does need one.
Leah Ou’s Pipa: Transcending Musical Boundaries through the Fusion of Tradition and Innovation
BY SUZIE WELLS
Leah Ou’s musical journey began in Chengdu, China, where she was born and first picked up the pipa at the age of six. “Starting at such a young age laid the foundation for my lifelong passion for music,” she reflects. Her early training was rigorous, but it helped establish the technical skills that would become the cornerstone of her artistry. She participated in numerous bands and ensembles throughout the years, honing her ability to adapt to various musical settings and deepen her appreciation for collaboration.
Learning the pipa, however, was not without its challenges. Leah vividly recalls her family’s dedication to her cra : “My mom or grandma would take me to lessons by bicycle, with me sitting on the back holding my pipa tightly. I’d eat instant noodles before class because our schedules were too packed to cook.” Despite moments of physical strain – “I remember crying sometimes from the soreness in my fingers a er practicing too much before competitions” – Leah found joy in the music itself. “ e joy of feeling the music move through my body, discovering the stories behind each piece, and seeing people’s amazement at this unique instrument made the journey incredibly rewarding,” she shares.
Leah’s passion for the pipa began with a deliberate choice. “My mom took me to a music store, and I was immediately drawn to its beautiful pear-shaped design and intricate details,” she recalls. She almost chose the Chinese flute, but the pipa captured her heart. One of her earliest and most transformative experiences with the instrument came when she encountered the ancient composition “Ambush from Ten Sides.” “ is piece, which depicts an ancient battle, initially shocked me with how much dissonance and noise it included,” she says. “It broadened my sense of the pipa’s incredible versatility.” Over time, it has become one of her favorite pieces to perform.
A er moving to Rochester, Leah began an exciting new chapter in her musical journey. She released her debut album, O’s Pipa, which showcased classical and traditional pipa compositions. Her latest album, Nomad, is a testament to her ability to innovate while respecting tradition. “ is album represents a blend of classical Chinese techniques and my own compositions,” Leah explains. Nomad also highlights her collaborative spirit, featuring instruments like guitar, piano, synthesizer, flute, and drums alongside the pipa. For this project, she also recorded on her second Chinese instrument, the ruan. “ e ruan holds a special place in my musical journey,” she adds, noting that she learned it during an internship with the TianZi Chinese Orchestra, part of the Sichuan Symphony Orchestra.
Leah’s artistry has been shaped by the guidance of remarkable mentors. She credits her long-time teacher, Tang Wenting, a National First-Class Pipa Performer in China, for instilling a poetic understanding of the instrument. “She told me to ‘feel the music’ and strive to achieve the sound of ‘big and small pearls dropping on a jade plate,’” Leah recounts. e imagery, drawn from an ancient poem, “ e Ballad of the Pipa,” continues to inspire her approach to music.
Another pivotal figure is Wu Man. “At the Silkroad Global Musician Workshop, renowned pipa virtuoso, Wu Man taught me the importance of being relaxed in my music and my head,” Leah says. “She also inspired me to dive deeper into traditional Chinese pieces.”
Recently, Leah explores new territory with rock band, Mountain –River – Traveler, which creates a fusion of traditional Chinese elements and modern rock energy, with the pipa, ruan, electric guitar, bass, and drums. e band’s innovative sound, which they call “supercharged Chinese folk,” blends powerful grooves with intricate time signatures to push musical boundaries, with the goal of making music that feels “fresh yet familiar, traditional yet modern, and transcends musical boundaries.”
Leah’s proudest moments as a musician o en come from sharing her music with others. “I cherish moments of practicing alone, becoming immersed in the stories behind the music, and meticulously preparing for performances,” she says. From the adrenaline of preshow preparations to the quiet satisfaction of packing up a erward, these experiences ground her and affirm her connection to her art.
Leah’s upcoming performances reflect her diverse musical endeavors. On January 27th, she will present on the pipa and perform a concert for the Rochester Guitar Club (open to the public) at 1010 East Avenue, Rochester. On February 2nd, she will perform with Mountain – River – Traveler at the Lunar New Year Festival in Hamburg. On May 24th, she will appear at the Hillbrook House Concerts ROC series.
To follow Leah’s musical journey and discover her work, visit her websites linktr.ee/imospipa, ospipa.bandcamp.com, or find her on Facebook: imospipa.
rough her dedication to both tradition and innovation, Leah Ou continues to enchant audiences, proving that the pipa’s rich legacy has a vibrant place in the modern musical landscape.
Love to write? You could earn CASH when you share your original story, personal experience, community happening or school event with us! It may be featured on our popular website for all to see and even selected for print! Go to My Hometown at www.gvpennysaver.com or email hometown@gvpennysaver.com!
Leah Ou with her pipa in Rochester
Magic Maze THINGS THAT PILE UP
January 20, 2025 commemorates the legacy of Martin Luther King Jr, who “had a dream” that boys and girls could school together, regardless of race, religion, creed, or color, judged only “by the content of their character” and not “the color of their skin.” 61 years later, where do you think we stand as a nation?
- We have achieved Dr. King’s vision
- We have made significant progress, but there’s still work to be done
- We have made little to no progress toward this vision
- We are now moving away from Dr. King’s dream
Poll ends 01-28-2025
Poll ended 01-21-2025
Each mumbered row contains two clues and two answers. e two answers differ from each other by only one letter, which has already been inserted. For example, if you exchange the A from MASTER for an I, you get MISTER. Do not change the order of the letters.
With wildfires devastating tens of thousands of acres, tornados ripping apart the Midwest each year, tsunamis washing away oceanside cities, Western NYers may feel fortunate to “only” deal with snow and ice. Are you ready for an emergency evacuation?
13.3% I have an emergency kit ready at home
26.7% I receive alerts for severe weather/emergencies
33.3% I feel somewhat prepared but could improve
26.7% I am not prepared
We love hearing from you! Vote and make your voice heard when you visit www.gvpennysaver.com!
MOMENTS IN TIME The History Channel
* On Jan. 30, 1835, Andrew Jackson becomes the first American president to experience an assassination attempt. Richard Lawrence, an unemployed house painter, shot at Jackson, but his gun misfired. A furious 67-year-old Jackson confronted his attacker, clubbing Lawrence several times with his walking cane.
DEPEND men’s underwear, size XL. 14 left in package. Pick up, Henrietta. Call or text 585-435-3594
Full size SLATE BOTTOM POOL TABLE with all accessories, cues, etc. Avon. Text or call 585-576-6828
1960s PLAYER PIANO player with bench, rolls and sheet music. The player mechanism needs repair. Avon. Text or call 585-576-6828
Large bag of JEWELRY BOXES - a variety of sizes. Fairport. 585-388-0318
1990 SONY 5-disc player. Works great. Pick up near MCC. aimeen@juno.com
About 20 / 2 lb. bags of WHITE RICE. You pick up, Springwater. sunteelee@yahoo.com
Several boxes of WOMEN’S HEAVY ABSORBENCY UNDERWEAR (small/medium) and BOOSTER PADS. Also, several FLOWER VASES. Gates. 585-402-8870
COLOGNE: L’Homme Suave by Capucci, 100 mil. half full bottle. Dior Sauvage clone/copycat. Penfield. jeff21973@gmail.com
COLOGNE: Imperia by Rayhaan, 100 mil. bottle, 90% full. Creed Aventus clone/copycat. Penfield. jeff21973@gmail.com
HEATING OIL. Siphon or take tank. About 100 gallons. Livonia. 585-346-5898
20, one dozen CARDBOARD EGG CARTONS, 60+ TOILET PAPER ROLLS - great for crafts or seed starting, 20+ VHS MOVIES. Penfield. 585-736-2749
Approx. 25 bags and pails of CHESTNUT COAL. Wayland. 585-278-4119
Collection of CATHOLIC CHURCH HISTORY from 1869 taken off of microfilm from churches in Avon, Honeoye, Honeoye Falls, and Lima. 585-229-2186
OAK DINING ROOM TABLE in good condition. 585-381-6546
1990s COMPUTER MONITOR and an older TYPEWRITER, manual or electric, in good working condition. 585-200-0667 leave message
Set of DUMBBELLS - anywhere between 12lbs-15lbs. 585-455-4923
RELIABLE VEHICLE to get back and forth to work. 585-213-0181
Working JEWELRY MAKING KILN, kiln and jewelry making accessories. susan5257@yahoo.com
FLAT ROCK for edging. jzornow001@gmail.com
Submissions published as space allows. We reserve the right to decline/edit/omit info. We assume no responsibility for submissions. Submissions must include phone # or email. Noncommercial use only. 20 word limit. Please call to remove listing once item is taken/received. Submit at www.gvpennysaver.com under Share With Us - Give & Take or call 226-8111 x 111
WEBSTERPUBLICLIBRARY:
East Rochester Public Library
317 Main St., E. Rochester, NY (585) 586-8302
www.eastrochester.org
Mon. 9am-7pm;
Tues.-Thurs. 9am-6pm; Fri. 9am-5pm; Sat 10am-2pm; Sun. Closed. (ERPL Book Nook: open Mon., Wed. & Sat. 10am-1pm Fairport Public Library
1 Fairport Village Landing, Fairport (585) 223-9091 www.fairportlibrary.org
Events should occur on a specific date at a specific time. Due to the increasing number of submissions, we will no longer be able to publish the following items:
• Businesses/schools seeking registration for classes or program
• Organizations seeking crafters or vendor
• Organizations seeking donations of items
Genesee Valley Penny Saver reserves the right to approve/reject events for publication. Events are published as space allows. Event deadline is Monday, 2 weeks prior to publication date
REGISTER AND SUBMIT YOUR EVENT ONLINE AT Log in to your account or register on our website to start submitting your events today! www.gvpennysaver.com under ‘Share With Us’ Events may also be submitted at: 1471 Route 15, Avon, NY 14414
Attention Town of Penfield Residents
Are you concerned about the Clark House & Barn at Shadow Pines?
Informal Public Meeting
by a resident for the residents. Tuesday, February 4, 2025 • 6:30pm Penfield Public Library • Ruth Braman Room
If you believe in preserving history, don't miss this public meeting to learn more and view public documents showing town plans to this historic site.
*Not a sponsored program of the Penfield Library.
A whole season’s worth of dirt and dust accumulates during the cold winter months. A deep clean inside and out can restore your home to its former glory. Inside, take time to launder all of your linens, including curtains, rugs and bedding. Move furniture to vacuum behind and below, and don’t overlook dust and dirt magnets like mirrors, light fixtures and the insides of cabinets, especially higher shelves that see infrequent use. Outdoors, hose off or power-wash surfaces like windows, siding, decks and concrete to restore a crisp, clean appearance.
2025 Annual WINTER SALE!
TIPS FOR REALIZING GOALS IN THE YEAR AHEAD
Thedawnofanewyearrepresents a chance to start anew and set goals for the months ahead. New Year’s resolutions are often made to provide the motivation people need to improve their lives and make a new year as productive and happy as possible. While people who make New Year’s resolutions fully intend to realize those goals, few actually stick to the game plan. According to researchers at the University of Scranton, just 8 percent of people who make their New Year’s resolutions actually achieve those resolutions. While that might make it seem like the odds are against men and women who have resolved to improve their lives in the year ahead, adults can realize their goals for the new year and beyond.
OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES THAT ARE PERFECT FOR SENIORS
Hiking: Hiking provides a great workout and an ideal opportunity to spend time in an idyllic setting. The U.S. National Park Service notes that hiking helps individuals build stronger muscles and bones, improves their sense of balance, has a positive effect on heart health, and can decrease the risk of certain respiratory problems. Hiking is an especially attractive outdoor activity for seniors, as many parks feature trails with varying degrees of difficulty, ensuring there’s a trail for seniors whether they’re seasoned or novice hikers.
HOMETOWN
BEAT CABIN FEVER WITH WINTER RENOVATIONS
When the weather outside is frightful, homeowners and renters can turn their interior spaces into something delightful. Residents can banish feelings of cabin fever by using time spent inside to make subtle or even substantial improvements to their living areas.
Individuals may find that winter is a great time to tackle delayed or unfinished projects or to put plans for major renovations in motion. Homeowners may find that they have some extra time on their hands when weather and early evening darkness reduces how much time they can spend outdoors.
One of the easiest ways to transform the look of a room is with a fresh coat of paint. Painting a room or rooms is an inexpensive project that can be completed over the course of a single weekend. Painting in lighter colors can help illuminate dark spaces and make a home feel more vivid and inviting, especially during the winter. And painting need not be reserved for walls only. Homeowners may want to sand and paint furniture to give items a trendy arts-and-crafts feel.
Address drafts and other inefficiencies. Colder temperatures alert homeowners to drafts, leaks and even insect or rodent infiltration. Homeowners can scout out rooms and remedy situations.
Organize the home. Rainy or snowy days are great moments to address organizational issues, such as messy mudrooms or cluttered kitchens. Get a jump-start on spring cleaning before the warm weather arrives.
HANDYMEN/WOMEN
Alex Korol, Owner
• Custom full Kitchen and Bathroom Remodeling
• Custom Deck and Deck Railing Solutions
• Custom Wood Projects
• Basement Remodeling
• Professional Tiling
• General Repairs - Plumbing, Electrical,Carpentry
• Deck Repairs
• Vinyl Plank Flooring Installation the_erie_canal_handyman Fairport, New York 585-690-1670
• Deck Sanding,Washing,and Staining
FREE HOME ENERGY IMPROVEMENTS
The PathStone Weatherization Assistance Program is available for income-eligible households in Monroe County located outside of the city limits.
COLD WEATHER WILDLIFE IN HOMES BOOSTS DISEASE AND PROPERTY DAMAGE RISKS
Many people may practice the “love thy neighbor” creed, but when it comes to four-legged wildlife such as raccoons, squirrels, and opossum that often seek refuge in yards and homes when outdoor temperatures dip and food sources become scarce, they are best kept at an arm’s length. As community development has thinned natural habitats and forced these critters into residential areas and lessened their fears of people, the National Pest Management Association (NPMA) has found that many areas of the country continue to report increased encounters with nuisance wildlife.
“While it can be a unique experience to spot wildlife in neighborhoods, these animals should be discouraged from taking up residence,” advises Missy Henriksen, vice president of public affairs for the NPMA. “ Not only can they damage property, many are vectors of disease, most notably rabies.”
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), about 40,000 people are exposed to rabies each year, a viral infection passed through the bite and saliva of an infected mammal. Raccoons, foxes, skunks, coyotes and bats are the most commonly reported animals infected with rabies. Because of the risks associated with these pests, homeowners should take extra precautions to protect against them.
By Fifi Rodriguez
1. TELEVISION: Who created the retro TV series “Stranger Things”?
2. U.S. STATES: Which state is the home of Yellowstone National Park?
3. ASTRONOMY: Which is the only planet in our solar system to rotate on its side?
4. MOVIES: What is the given name of the large bird in the animated movie “Up”?
5. GENERAL KNOWLEDGE: Which three zodiac signs are considered earth signs?
6. LITERATURE: What is the name of Hagrid’s half-brother in the “Harry Potter” book series?
7. GEOGRAPHY: What is the capital city of Australia?
8. FOOD & DRINK: What type of nut is used in the chocolate spread Nutella?
9. SPORTS: What kind of sports match is divided into 7-minute periods called chukkas?
10. ADVERTISEMENTS: What type of horses often are used in Budweiser beer ads?
Lack of sunlight: All plants need the proper ratio of sunlight to grow. Too much sunlight and plant blades can scorch. Too little sunlight and grass may turn brown and die. Although there are shade-tolerant varieties of grass, homeowners also can explore alternative landscapes. Work in a garden bed or create a design that utilizes
or mulch. Avoid aggressively pruning back trees to give the lawn more sunlight in that area, as this may just damage the trees.
Emphasize time management. Hectic schedules can quickly derail resolutions. Many people want to eat healthier and exercise more but find their time is stretched pretty thin, which can make it difficult to get to the gym or prepare healthy meals at home. Finding ways to manage time more effectively can make it easier to stay committed to New Year’s resolutions. Right down your daily schedule and look for ways to free up time. If you routinely take an hour for lunch each day, use that time to exercise and eat at your desk when you return from your walk, workout or jog. Try to wake up 30 to 60 minutes earlier each morning to exercise, and make use of time before bed by preparing a healthy lunch for the following day.
HOW COUPLES CAN BENEFIT FROM HIRING
LOCAL
WEDDING VENDORS:
Local vendors will be familiar with the area and possibly even the location where the wedding will be held. That can help couples avoid having to give directions, discuss venue protocols, and handle other tasks that must be worked out with non-local vendors. For example, local photographers familiar with a particular venue will know all of the best places to get shots, and some vendors may have preexisting relationships with venue representatives that could ensure wedding day operations go smoothly.
ECKANKAR
The Path of Spiritual Freedom
Eckankar Center of Rochester
312 W. Commercial Street • East Rochester, NY Phone: 585-288-4721 • email: eckankarrochesterny@gmail.com
Public events on Sundays at 11am: www.eckankar-ny.org/public
Learn about ECKANKAR at www.eckankar.org
WHAT CONSUMERS CAN DO TO SUPPORT LOCAL FARMERS
Buy fresh foods at your local farmers market. Farmers markets are many foodies’ favorite places, but they aren’t exclusive to individuals with a passion for food. Everyone needs to eat, so why not eat foods grown locally, which are generally more fresh and appetizing than imported fruits and vegetables sold at chain grocery stores? Even individuals who don’t typically eat fresh fruit and vegetables can find something delectable at a local farmers market, where anything from homemade tomato sauces to locally raised fresh beef and pork might be on sale.
SCHOOL BUS MONITORS AND DRIVERS
• Paid Bus Monitor to Driver training available
• Must be at least 21 years of age
• NYS Employee Retirement System pension
• Health and dental benefits Visit www.webstercsdjobs.org or call 585-216-0205
FAIRPORT CSD IS HIRING!
• Payroll Clerk
• Teacher Aides
• Bus Drivers
• Custodians/Cleaners
Visit our website to view all openings and apply: www.fairport.org/humanresources
OPEN Job Fair
Production, Utilities and Maintenance roles
Hiring for all shifts. Competitive benefits and shift differentials.
Feb. 1, 2025 • 10am-2pm at the Avon Inn 55 East Main Street • Unit 1 • Avon, NY 14414 140 Spring Street • Avon, NY 14414
Apply Now: careers.kraftheinz.com
STEPS TO LEAVE A JOB GRACEFULLY
Deciding to leave a job is seldom an easy decision. However, it’s a more common decision than many people may know, as the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics indicates the average worker holds 10 different jobs before age 40.
People change jobs for a variety of reasons. Some do so because of better opportunities elsewhere, while others simply need a change. Regardless of what’s motivating a job change, leaving a place of employment can elicit various emotions, including some that may contribute to negative thoughts about a current employer. But it’s always best to leave a job gracefully, which can pay dividends down the road.
WEBSTER CSD IS HIRING!
• Teaching Assistants • Student Aides
• Clerical Staff
• Food Service Staff
• Health Office Aides
• Cleaners
To see all openings and apply, visit: www.webstercsdjobs.org
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STAY SAFE AND WARM DURING WINTER WORKOUTS
Athletes devoted to outdoor workouts do not abandon their routines when winter rears its chilly head. While it can be difficult to embrace the great outdoors when temperatures hover around the freezing point, maintaining your motivation at such times bodes well for your fitness goals the rest of the year. Staying warm is a top priority for athletes who exercise outdoors during the winter months. While there’s no guarantee winter winds won’t test your willpower, there are some ways to stay warm when working out in colder climates.
