Westside News EAST Edition – June 23, 2024

Salmon Creek Country Club 2024 EVENING JUNIOR GOLF CAMPS

The goal of this four week program is to provide your child with a positive and enjoyable golf experience. This will entail instruction on swing fundamentals, long game, short game, putting, etiquette, practice drills and safety. The program is taught by PGA Professional Gary Tatar.

Camp I: Mondays, July 8, 15, 22, 29 (Sign-up deadline July 5)

Camp II: Tuesdays, August 6, 13, 20, 27 (Sign-up deadline August 2)

Camp Time: 5:30 pm to 7:00 pm. Instruction starts promptly at 5:30

The camp is open to children ages 8 to 14. Camp is limited to the first 20 children. An adult is welcome to observe.

Golf is available following instruction. Children play free, however must be accompanied by an adult. If the adult plays a twilight fee is required.

Cost of the Camp is $100. Price includes instruction, range balls.

All Camp dates will be held as scheduled. In case of inclement weather, the camp sessions will be extended an additional week. All Juniors will be required to have an adult present if you choose to play the golf course following the camp.

Registration form can be found on the Salmon Creek website under Lessons with Gary Tatar. Return Registration to: Salmon Creek Country Club

355 Washington St., Spencerport

Contact Gary Tatar 585-233-8863 protatar1027@hotmail.com

Exile McBride mystery solved inside abandoned Brockport cemetery

by Mike McBride

When Exile McBride – the famous Irish freedom crusader – fled Ireland in 1864 to avoid persecution from the British, he came to the United States. Of the countless locations throughout America where Exile could have settled, he chose the small town of Brockport, New York. Why did he sail all the way from Ireland, end up traveling down the Erie Canal, and finally exit in Brockport? Was he sick, did he get lost, or possibly run out of money? Why was Brockport Exile’s final destination?

As Exile’s great-nephew, I have given 24 presentations on his incredible life story and am also completing a book. Until recently, I had only been able to speculate on this lingering question of why he chose Brockport. However, this mystery would soon be solved when I received a phone call from Kevin O’Brien, a professional genealogist in Buffalo.

Kevin had been researching the McBride family tree. He mentioned that he had discovered some McBride family members who settled in Brockport. They had apparently done so many years before Exile arrived from Ireland in 1864. Kevin also stated that if I could possibly locate one of their old graves, that it would really help “lock things up.”

Excited to find one of these old family members’ graves, I anxiously asked Kevin what cemetery I would be going to for my search. Kevin said this might be extremely difficult since it was known as the Old Catholic Cemetery. This cemetery was listed as having been abandoned as it closed way back in 1891 because of flooding. It was reportedly in terrible condition. The location was off East Avenue, not far from Brockport’s Seymour Library. I realized that my chances of success locating and identifying a McBride grave were probably minimal. However, I was certainly willing to try.

Driving to the cemetery, I went by the unmarked entrance a few times before discovering a poorly defined opening. It was very secluded by high grass and brush. As I started hiking through seemingly jungle-like conditions, I felt like I was on a safari. I was carrying mosquito repellant, a shovel, a broom, hedge clippers, and water for cleaning. Soon, I began to wonder if I was lost since there were no indica-

Mike McBride searched the Old Catholic Cemetery in Brockport, looking for the proverbial needle in a haystack – and he found it! He located the grave of Exile’s aunt Catharine McBride, who died in 1867 at age 36. With the discovery, Mike could answer a question he had pondered ever since learning about his long-lost great-uncle, a famous Irish freedom fighter. Exile settling in Brockport after fleeing Ireland was no coincidence. He had family already living

in a distant clearing; it read “Old Catholic Cemetery, 1847-1891.”

This was definitely an abandoned cemetery in complete shambles. It looked like a gravestone junkyard, with almost all of the stones either broken, unreadable, or covered up. This environment would have been the perfect setting for a spooky Halloween movie.

I thought to myself that this would truly be a hopeless exercise in futility. You might call the situation a “grave matter.” However, there were still a few intact and potentially identifiable stones. As I was trying to clean off these possibilities, I noticed one partially buried in the ground. I could not believe my eyes when I saw the name “McBride.” Wow, I felt like I was on an archaeological dig.

The date and names that I found made sense, and I continued shoveling off the dirt and then washed the stone clean. The engraving mentioned Catharine McBride, who died in 1867, as being the wife of James McBride. This information supported and reinforced Kevin O’Brien’s McBride family genealogy findings. It had linked James and Catharine McBride, as Exile’s uncle and aunt. They also had three children – Exile’s cousins – who had grown up in Brockport.

I knew many Irishmen had worked on the Erie Canal only a generation earlier. They frequently settled in new canal towns such as Brockport. There was a good chance that James McBride had been one of these laborers.

Whatever the case, Exile definitely had family members already living in Brockport before he fled Ireland. It was no coincidence that he chose to settle in Brockport after traveling all the way from Ireland. As Exile became established, he eventually brought his parents and siblings to Brockport.

I am extremely fortunate to have solved this Brockport mystery and am most appreciative to Kevin O’Brien. It was also incredible that the vital wording I needed was on one of the few remaining gravestones when almost all of the other gravestones were in shambles! Perhaps I also had a little “Luck of the Irish” inside this abandoned

Washington Street closure

Monroe County Department of Transportation has announced that a section of Washington Street between Dresser Road and Lyell Street in Ogden will close beginning at 9 a.m. on Monday, June 24, for a culvert pipe

replacement. The road is expected to remain closed through 5 p.m. on Friday, June 28.

Motorists are advised to seek alternate routes. A detour will be posted. Provided information

Reed and Bocach elected Brockport Village Trustees

The Brockport Village election was held Tuesday, June 18, with four candidates vying for two trustee positions.

Ben Reed and Joanne Bocach, who ran on the Better Brockport ticket, were the top two vote getters, receiving 372 and 345 votes, respectively.

Both were elected to serve four-year terms on the Village Board, through June 30, 2028.

The Revitalize Brockport candidates, Shawn Halquist and Linda Ketchum, received 214 and 212 votes, respectively.

Provided information

Sweden’s equalization rate returned to 100 percent

Following the Town of Sweden’s 2024 re-assessment project, its equalization rate has been returned to 100%. The 2023 rate had dropped to 93%, which meant that the market value of houses was exceeding the assessed valuation. New York State requires towns to maintain assessed valuations at 100% of market value or be assigned a punitive equalization rate.

Equalization rates may limit municipalities access to some state aid, effect their share of sales tax, and put them at a disadvantage across shared taxing districts (schools,

counties, fire districts, etc.). It also means that houses that are truly at 100% of market value as assessed end up paying more in taxes than they should when assigned an equalization rate that is across all properties in a given town.

Sweden’s return to 100 percent ensures equitable taxation across property owners beginning with the school tax bill in September 2024. The actual amount of school taxes paid depends on the budget adopted by the school board.

Provided information

Bash at the Beach Celebration at Hamlin Beach State Park

The Bash at the Beach will take place at Hamlin Beach State Park at 1 Hamlin Beach State Park, Hamlin, on Saturday, June 29, from 1 to 10 p.m. With admission to the park, attendees can enjoy a fun-filled day of free events to celebrate 100 years of the NYS Park system.

This family-friendly event will include nature outings, food, a kids sandcastle competition, a semi professional wrestling show, live music, fireworks, and more. Events include:

•1 to 1:30 p.m. – The Friends of Hamlin Beach State Park (FOHBSP) ribbon cutting in Area 3 for the installation of Mobi Mats making the beach accessible to all.

•1 p.m. – Other events in the park

get underway, including Empire Jeep show, park interpretive experiences, and food trucks.

•2 to 3:30 p.m. – The FOHBSP are sponsoring a free sandcastle event for kids; enjoy the beach and build a sandcastle (bring your own buckets and shovels).

•3 to 6 p.m. – Semi-pro wrestling show

•6 to 10 p.m. – Concert in the park

•10 p.m. – Fireworks

This event will take place outside along the beautiful beachfront.

Leashed dogs are welcome.

To join the FOHBSP, email fohbsp@gmail.com and follow them on Facebook.

Provided information

Summer EBT program helps provide food for eligible children

Beginning in summer 2024, New York State is implementing Summer EBT, a new federal program to help low-income households with children purchase food over the summer when school is out of session and children can no longer rely on access to free/ reduced-price school meals.

The Summer EBT benefit of $120 per eligible child will be issued on an Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) card that the family can use just like Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits to purchase eligible food items at SNAP participating grocery stores, farmers markets, and other retailers. The new program is in addition to free meals that children ages 18 and younger can get at summer meal sites in their communities.

Most children will be automatically eligible for Summer EBT and do not need to do anything to enroll. To be automatically eligible:

•A child must receive Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) and/or Temporary Assistance (cash) benefits, or be directly certified for

DONATE BLOOD. HELP SAVE LIVES. GlowGolf

BLOOD DRIVE

The Mall At Greece Ridge

271 Greece Ridge Center

Rochester, NY 14626

Tues., July 2, 2024 • 12 pm to 5 pm

The Village of Hilton is seeking laborers and Motor Equipment Operators, CDL preferred but not mandatory at date of hire. Competitive Wages and benefits. Apply in person at the Village Office, 59 Henry Street or at hiltonny.org

free meals through Medicaid, or

•A child must be determined eligible for free/reduced-price school meals by their school during the 2023-24 school year.

An online application will be available in July for children who are not automatically eligible and who live in a household that meets the income requirements for free/reduced-price school meals and attend a school that participates in the National School Lunch Program.

To learn more about Summer EBT, including when and how food benefits will be issued, visit OTDA. NY.gov/SummerEBT. The Summer EBT Customer Service Helpline is 1-833-452-0096. Families should seek answers to specific questions using the website before calling the helpline. The helpline will be able to answer questions about a specific child’s eligibility beginning July 1, 2024. Information is also available at hungersolutionsny.org/federalnutrition-programs/summer-ebt/. Provided information

Westside News

We always, all ways give you more www.westsidenewsny.com (585) 352-3411 • FAX (585) 352-4811 P.O. Box 106 1776 Hilton-Parma Corners Road (Route 259) Spencerport, NY 14559

Staff and Contact Information

Publisher Keith A. Ryan ext. 125

Office Managers Emily Antinore, Linda Michielsen

Editorial Department email: editor@westsidenewsny.com

Classified Advertising ext. 124 email: classified@westsidenewsny.com

General Information “0” for the operator email: info@westsidenewsny.com

Digital Marketing Director

Gary Sajdak ext. 135 gary.sajdak@westsidenewsny.com

Advertising Representatives and Contact Information

Ben Albert 585-851-8092 (cell) ben.albert@westsidenewsny.com

Lori Antonelli ext. 133 lori.antonelli@westsidenewsny.com

Debbie Day ext. 131 debbie.day@westsidenewsny.com

Joe Korn 585-469-1426 (cell) joe.korn@westsidenewsny.com

Tami Raco ext. 129 tami.raco@westsidenewsny.com

Mary Lou Rockow ext. 134 mary.lou.rockow@westsidenewsny.com

Ellen Stevens ext. 130 ellen.stevens@westsidenewsny.com

Trish Walter ext. 138 trish.walter@westsidenewsny.com

Ad production manager Karen Fien ext. 128

Asst. production manager Joanne Michielsen ext. 3 email: production@westsidenewsny.com

Production Emily Antinore, Vicki Caspersson, Suzette Coleman, Linda Michielsen, Donna Stultz.

Website -- Donna Stultz email: editor@westsidenewsny.com

Writers & contributors

Maggie Fitzgibbon, Kristina Gabalski, Warren Kozireski, Rick Nicholson, Joe Reinschmidt, Tami Raco, T.R. Hendrick.

Circulation & distribution -Don Griffin, Linda Tefft. ext. 123 email: circulation@westsidenewsny.com

Editor Emerita Evelyn Dow

Team Leader Emerita Marilyn Brown

Published each Sunday by Westside News Inc., Westside News circulates by private carrier and the U.S. Postal Service to free distribution recipients and paid subscribers in Bergen, Brockport-Sweden, Chili, Churchville-Riga, Clarendon, Clarkson, Hamlin, Hilton-Parma, Kendall, North Greece, and Spencerport-Ogden. Business offices are located at 1776 Hilton-Parma Corners Road (Route 259), Spencerport, NY 14559. (585) 352-3411. Entered for mailing at Spencerport, NY 14559. Subscription rates are $50 per year; $30 for six months or less.

NOTICE TO ADVERTISERS

All advertising in this publication is subject to approval before publication. We reserve the right to edit, refuse, reject or cancel any ad at any time. We shall not be liable for any loss or expense that results from the publication (whether published correctly or not) or omission of an advertisement.

COLLECTION NOTICE

In the event of non-payment when due, an advertiser’s account may be turned over to an attorney for collection and will be liable for all charges paid by Westside News Inc. for collection. If judgments are received against the advertiser, the name of the person and the business will appear in this publication until the judgment is satisfied.

Blood Drives

•Upcoming blood drives: June 26, 1 to 6 p.m., Riga Town Hall, 6460 Buffalo Road, Churchville; June 26, 1 to 6 p.m., American Legion, 691 Trimmer Road, Spencerport. Make an appointment to give blood or platelets by using the Red Cross Blood Donor App, visiting RedCrossBlood.org or calling 1-800-RED-CROSS (1-800-733-2767). Those who donate through June 30 will get a $15 e-gift card to a merchant of choice. See RedCrossBlood.org/ DoGood for details.

•Blood Drive on Tuesday, July 2, noon to 5 p.m., at GlowGolf, 271 Greece Ridge Center, Rochester. Call 1-800-RED-CROSS (1-800- 733-2767) or visit redcrossblood.org and enter: CUREkidscancer to schedule an appointment.

Events

•The Spencerport High School Jazz Ensemble will perform at the Rochester International Jazz Festival on Monday, June 24, at 5:15 p.m. on the Jazz Street Stage. Free. For information, go to www.rochesterjazz.com.

•The Hilton-Parma Gazebo Band will celebrate its 40th anniversary with free summer concerts on Wednesday, June 26, 7:30 p.m., at Hilton Baptist Church, 50 Lake Avenue, Hilton; and Wednesday, July 10, 7:30 p.m., at Orchard Community Church, 2285 Latta Road, Greece.

•Wegmans Concert by the Shore series takes place at 7 p.m. every Wednesday at Ontario Beach Park, 50 Beach Avenue. Free and open to the public. The Skycoasters (high energy party band) on June 26. For the complete schedule, call 585-865-3320 or visit www. ontariobeachentertainment.org.

•Homesteads for Hope Community Farm hosts Thursdays at the Farm on Thursday evenings from 5 to 8 p.m. Enjoy live music and grab a bite at the Pizza Grill or Farm Store and Café. There will also be vendors and pony rides. Zero Gravity performs June 27. Homesteads for Hope is located at 2185 Manitou Road, Spencerport. For information, visit homesteadsforhope.org.

•Spencerport’s Music on the Canal concerts are held Sunday evenings from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m., rain or shine. Admission is free. Bring a lawn chair and the whole family. Executive Order Band (Classic Rock) performs on June 30.

•Hilton-Parma Recreation presents Summer Food Truck Wednesdays at the Parma Town Park. Food trucks will be at the park, near the playground area, on Wednesdays from 4:30 to 8 p.m.

Some nights will include live music entertainment as well. June 26 - TBA. For updates, follow the 2024 Food Truck Wednesdays on Facebook or contact Hilton-Parma Recreation at 392-9030.

•Hilton High School Jazz Ensemble performs at the Rochester International Jazz Festival on Thursday, June 27, from 6 to 7 p.m. in the Big Tent at the corner of Main and Gibbs, Rochester.

•Finger Lakes Opera presents the world premiere of Two Corners by B.E. Boykin at 7 p.m. on Friday, June 28, and 2 p.m. on Sunday, June 30, at Monroe Community College Theater, 1000 East Henrietta Road, Rochester. The opera explores the friendship between Florine, a black woman, and her childhood friend Sarah, a white woman in rural Alabama during the civil rights movement. Learn more and purchase tickets at https://www.fingerlakesopera.org/.

•Fireworks and fun at the Sweden/Clarkson Community Center, 4927 Lake Road, Brockport, on Wednesday, July 3. Scheduled activities run from 7 to 9 p.m. and include pony rides, bounce house and other inflatables, games, activities, and food trucks. Portable restrooms on site. Bring lawn chairs and blankets. Fireworks at dusk. Rain date is July 5. For information, call 431-0090.

•Town of Greece Old Fashioned Fourth of July 5K Freedom Run registration is now available. Pre-registration is $25, day-of registration will be $30. Pre-register online at https://runsignup. com/Race/NY/Rochester/Greece5KFreedomRun.

A t-shirt will be provided to every person who preregisters and a medal will be provided to every participant.

Fundraisers

•Online registration is now open for the Daniel’s Race, a 5K run/walk in memory of Daniel Myslivecek that is being held at Churchville-Chili Middle School on Saturday, August 17. Register or donate by clicking the Register link on www. daniels5k.com. The registration fee is $25.

•Stunning Gardens – By Ordinary People Garden Tour ’24 will be held Saturday, July 20, from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. (rain date July 21). Spend a leisurely afternoon with a self-guided tour of multiple gardens located at homes in Brockport, Clarkson, and Sweden. Enjoy the design, vibrant color, and variety showcased by these local gardeners. Tickets are $25 per person. Make reservations at the Seymour Library, call 585-637-1050, or email seymourlibraryfoundation@gmail.com. Presented by the Foundation of the Seymour Library Inc.

•Trunk salers, crafters and vendors are needed for the Dog Days of Summer and Pet Blessing event at Hilton Baptist Church, 50 Lake Avenue, Hilton, on July 20 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Space reservations are $15 and can be made by calling 392-7990.

•Join the Chili Presbyterian Food Cupboard Committee for a fun filled Toilet Bowl Toss Game, as they Fund-Raise for Food, Saturday, June 29, at the Chili Summer Fest, 3 to 10 p.m., Chili Avenue at Chili Center. For $1, get four chances to win prizes and support the monthly Food Cupboard, which helps to feed over 90 families in the Chili neighborhood.

•The American Legion Auxiliary #379 will serve a Lasagna Dinner on the second Wednesday of the month and a Chicken & Biscuit Dinner on the fourth Wednesday of the month to help support the Brockport Area Veterans Club, 222 West Avenue, Brockport. Both dinners are from 4 to 6 p.m. and are available for dine in or take out. Cost is $12 per person, $6 for veterans. For reservations, call 585-637-5012. (Dinners may vary in the coming months.)

•A Journery Through Time at Ellwanger Estate Tour and Sale is Saturday, June 29. Tour two adjacent historic houses built as residences for the Ellwanger family in the mid-1800s. The Ellwanger and Barry families contributed greatly to the wealth built in Rochester: their development of seeds and nursery stock still contribute to the beauty of Rochester. They gave land and plantings that became Highland Park and founded the Landmark Society. Select furnishings, art, and collectibles will be for sale and a light breakfast will be served. Also visit the Landmark Society’s Ellwanger Garden. This is a one-time event to benefit the Memorial Art Gallery. Tickets are limited must be purchased in advance at bit.ly/Ellwanger24 or by contacting the MAG Council at 585-276-8910.

•41st Spencerport Rotary Golf Tournament will be held at Timber Ridge Golf Club on Saturday, August 10. 11 a.m. registration, lunch, putting contest; 1 p.m. Shotgun Start. $125 entry fee per player includes 50/50 entry and raffle tickets. Scramble format, men’s, ladies and mixed team awards. Beverages on course, gift bags for golfers, BBQ dinner. To register or for information, contact Stu and Laura McFarlane at mcfarlane2000@gmail.com or lauramcfarlane1961@ gmail.com. Partial proceeds used to support Eagle Star Housing.

Government Meetings

•Chili: Library Board of Trustees – June 25, 6 p.m., at 3237 Chili Avenue, New Community Center; Zoning Board of Appeals – June 25, 7 p.m., at Town Hall - Main Meeting Room.

•Churchville: Board of Trustees – June 24, 7 p.m., at 23 E. Buffalo Street.

•Clarkson: Town Board – June 25, 6 p.m., at Town Hall.

•Hamlin: Conservation Board – June 24, 7 p.m.; Town Board – June 26, 7 p.m. at 1658 Lake Road.

•Kendall: Planning Board – June 25.

•Riga: Conservation Board – June 24, 7 p.m.

•Sweden: Town Board – June 25, 6 p.m.

Health/Help

•Veterans with Cancer Support Group meets the second and fourth Tuesday of the month from 5:30 to 7 p.m. at Cancer Support Community at Gilda’s Club, 255 Alexander Street, Rochester. Call 585-423-9700 x304 or visit www.cscrochester.org for information.

Historical

•The Ogden Historical Society presents Joel Humphrey – Spencerport’s Story Teller – for a talk about Spenceport’s Time Capsule on June 26 at 7 p.m. at the Ogden Historical Society, 568 Colby Street, Spencerport. Free and open to the public.

Library Programs

•The Hamlin Public Library is open Mondays/ Wednesdays from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.; Tuesdays/ Thursdays from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.; Fridays from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. The library will be closed Thursday, July 4, in commemoration of Independence Day. Digital Literacy of Rochester is at the library every Monday from noon to 3 p.m. providing tech help. Adult Book Club is Wednesday, June 26, at 2 p.m. Summer Storytime with Mrs. Carlson is Monday, July 1, at 10:30 a.m. and includes fun books, active songs, early literacy activities, and playtime with friends. Fiber Friends program on Monday, July 8, from 3 to 5 p.m. is open to anyone with an interest in knitting, crocheting, spinning, weaving, or felting. Card-making class is Tuesday, July 9, from 2 to 4 p.m. and 6 to 7 p.m. Summer Reading kicks off with an interactive story theater program of fantastical stories on Thursday, July 11, at 11 a.m. in the Hamlin Town Hall gym. Call 964-2320 to register for programs. Visit the library’s Facebook page or www.hamlinlibraryny.org for more information.

•Newman Riga Library, 1 South Main Street, Churchville, is open Mondays/Wednesdays/Fridays from 11 a.m. to 5 p. m.; Tuesdays/Thursdays 11 a.m. to 8 p.m.; Saturdays (until the end of June) 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Summer Reading Game begins Thursday, June 27. Open to children Pre-K through Grade 12. Kick-Off event with Mayukwa Kashiwa’s African Drumming Program Thursday, June 27, at 2 p.m. For information, call 293-2009, go to newmanrigalibrary.org, or visit the library’s Facebook page.

•The Ogden Farmers’ Library, 269 Ogden Center Road, Spencerport, is open Monday 10 a.m. to 8 p.m., Tuesday through Thursday 9 a.m. to 8 p.m., Friday and Saturday 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. (every third Friday opening at 10 a.m.). Summer Reading for adults, teens, and kids starts on July 1 – read books and win prizes. Adult events: Newspapers as Genealogical Resources – June 24 at 6 p.m.; Book Group – July 9 at 2 p.m.; Campfire Paintalong – July 19 at 2 p.m., Genealogy Presentation: Underground Railroad – July 22 at 6 p.m. Call 617-6181 to register. Find kids and teen events at facebook.com/ogdenfarmerslibrary.

•Parma Public Library, 7 West Avenue, Hilton is holding the following events (no registration unless indicated): Virtual Tour Tuesday: Everglades National Park – Tuesday, June 25, 1 to 2 p.m. Learn how the largest subtropical wilderness in the U.S. uses its varied ecosystems to provide habitat to the myriad of animals and more. This jam-packed wildlife session features experts from the park. Gazebo Storytime – Wednesday, June 26, 10:30 to 11 a.m., recommended for ages 2 to 6. Join Ms. Zuzu at the Hilton-Parma Rec Center Gazebo to read stories, sing songs, dance around, and blow bubbles. Bring blankets or chairs. In the event of rain, storytime will be held at the Parma Library. Backyard Conservation: Creating a Native Oasis on Your Own Property – Wednesday, June 26, 2 to 3 p.m., registration required. Jacob Kearney from the Monroe County Soil & Water Conservation District will be presenting on aspects of backyard conservation including native plantings, supporting native pollinators and other wildlife, protecting water quality, and more. Feel free to bring questions. Summer Reading Kickoff: Braddock Bay Raptor Research – Thursday, June 27, 1 to 3 p.m. Celebrate the start of summer reading with the birds from Braddock Bay Raptor Research, and then enjoy ice cream and a craft. Pick up summer reading gameboards to start tracking your mini challenges. For information, call 392-8350 or visit www.parmapubliclibrary.org.

•This is a sample of programs held at the Seymour Library, 161 East Avenue, Brockport, 637-1050. For complete information, visit seymourlibraryweb. org. Programs marked with an * require advance registration. Penguin Story Time – Tuesday, June 25, 11 to 11:30 a.m., for ages 0 to 8. “As the Pages Turn” Book Club – Wednesday, June 26, 11 a.m. to noon, and Thursday, June 27, 6 to 7 p.m. This month’s book is American Dirt, by Jeanine Cummins. IBib Sumo Robots – Wednesday, June 26, 3 to 8 p.m., for anyone interested in IBiB’s new sumo robot league. Watch small robots compete in matches that mirror traditional sumo wrestling. Movie Night – Wednesday, June 26, 5:30 to 8 p.m. Homeschool Hour: The World Under Our Feet with Cornell Cooperative Extension* – Thursday, June 27, 1 to 2 p.m., for grades K-8. Learn how soils can be classified and explore the possible colors of soil through painting. Summer Reading Kickoff – Thursday, June 27, 5 to 7 p.m. features free activities for the whole family. Mad Scientist Lab Egg Drop* – Friday, June 28, 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., for ages 5 to 12. Enjoy a science demo followed by a hands-on activity. In Stitches* – Friday, June 28, noon to 2 p.m., features ice dyeing.

Meetings

•Hilton Apple Fest Committee meets every fourth Monday of the month at 6:30 p.m. in the Hilton Community Center, 59 Henry Street, Hilton. The meeting room is on the second floor, room 202. Everyone is welcome.

•Hamlin Morton Walker Board of Fire Commissioners holds a workshop meeting the fourth Thursday of the month (June 27) at 7 p.m. All meetings are held at the Hamlin Morton Walker Fire District Building, 1521 Lake Road, Hamlin.

School Boards

•Churchville-Chili Board of Education meets Tuesday, June 25, at 139 Fairbanks Road, Churchville. Work Session at 6 p.m. in Professional Development Room #3802. Code of Conduct Public Hearing at 7 p.m. in Administrative Board Room #3808. Regular business meeting to follow immediately after public hearing.

•Hilton Board of Education meets June 25 at 7 p.m. in the auditorium at QUEST Elementary School, 225 West Ave., Hilton.

•The Spencerport Board of Education will meet on Tuesday, June 25, at 6 p.m. for a Business Meeting. Check the district’s website for details. Seniors

•The Parkinson’s Foundation Estate Planning team is hosting a free educational webinar, Get to Know Medicare, on Tuesday, June 25, from 1 to 2 p.m. on Zoom. Speaker will be Renee Harberts, CLTC, CRPS, Independent Insurance Broker at Associated Professionals, Ltd. This is a free event, but registration is required. RSVP at Parkinson.org/MedicareWebinar to receive a link to the program.

Volunteer Opportunities

•The Brockport Arts Festival needs volunteers. Opportunities leading up to, during, and after this year’s festival are listed at https://tinyurl. com/3zfw9925 where you can find more information and sign up. Volunteers receive a t-shirt to be worn during their service.

Care closer to home: Child and adolescent behavioral health expansion at OOH

by Robin Govanlu, LMHN, LAC, LPC, Chief of Behavioral Health, Oak Orchard Health

Although many aspects of daily life appear to have returned to some sense of normalcy since the pandemic, there is an increasing impact and cultural shift in the need for mental health services, especially for children and adolescents. Since the start of the pandemic, Oak Orchard Health (OOH) continues to see the demand for behavioral health services on the rise, with limited resources to respond to that demand in the rural regions that we serve.

Since 2020 we have continued to see immense growth year after year with a 119% increase in all behavioral health visits and a 164% increase in pediatric visits since the start of the pandemic. Our Brockport and Albion sites are our largest volume sites serving many of our child and adolescent patients. Unfortunately, that has resulted in longer than usual wait times for an appointment. As a parent, we know how difficult that can be, so we’ve been partnering with many organizations to help improve this situation.

Oak Orchard Health has served as a lead agency for many years on the Western Monroe County Child and Adolescent Behavioral Health Coalition, which includes important community partners such as The University of Rochester Strong Pediatric Comprehensive Psychiatric Emergency Program (CPEP), Rochester Regional Health, SUNY Brockport, and the Brockport Central School District. The collective data from this coalition further demonstrates the need for expansion of pediatric behavioral health services in Western Monroe and Orleans Counties, and the surrounding areas as many families that live west of Rochester experience significant challenges with accessing care closer to home.

To adequately address the behavioral health crisis in our regions and keep more children out of the hospital we need more mental health services in our community and that’s where Oak Orchard comes in. Getting our young patients connected quickly to the

services that they need is vital to their well-being and ongoing development. Therefore, OOH will be expanding child and adolescent behavioral health services at the Brockport Health Center and the Albion Wellness Center. This expansion will include hiring additional therapists with a specialty in pediatric behavioral health. We’ll also be hiring support staff and a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner within the next year. Services can be provided inperson and through our telehealth program which allows for audio or video communication between the patient and mental health provider using their phone, laptop, or iPad.

Another goal is to reduce the wait from time of referral to time of intake to get kids and families the help they need sooner. With the new therapists hired in the coming months, we expect to be able to see new patients this summer. We plan to care for kids from as young as two to 21 years of age. Please share with others and we look forward to partnering with schools and parents in the area regarding the expansion of this program. We hope to make a major impact on the youth in the region.

If you have any questions or want to make an appointment for the July/August period, call Oak Orchard Health at 585-637-3905 extension 2102.

Churchville-Chili’s Chestnut Ridge School celebrated its 65th birthday on June 17. Alumni from each decade returned to the school to tour the building, reminisce, and share stories of their time at CRS with students. There was even birthday cake served during lunch for all students. Photo from @CCCSDtweets on X.

HAGE-HOGAN BOYS & GIRLS BASKETBALL CAMP

July 8-July 11, 2024

Summer is the ideal time to improve as a basketball player and athlete. We are committed to assisting you in elevating your game. Our approach focuses on the basic fundamentals of shooting, ball handling, passing, receiving, footwork, defending, cutting and screening in helping you build a solid skill set. During the week our campers have daily instruction, practice, drills, and competitions under the supervision of our highly qualified coaching staff. The coaches will concentrate on solid ball control skills, court sense, execution of fundamentals, quickness, and finishing strong, which are the essentials of the best players. We will strive to build your confidence, work ethic, and develop your passion for the “World’s Greatest Team game.” Come join us and become the best you can be! It will be our pleasure to work with you.

Instructors: Charlie Hage (former Brockport High School Boys Varsity Coach) and Jack Hogan (former Brockport High School Girls Coach).

Camp Begins Monday, July 8

Campers in grades K-2 are to report at 7:45am to Sweden/Clarkson Community Center, Campers in grades 3-12 are to report at 7:30 am to the Brockport Central Middle School to sign in before start time! At this time you will receive your basketball and Hage-Hogan T-shirt! Campers will be broken up into age and fundamentals groups.

42nd Year running and have had over 5,000 campers over the years.

Basketball Camp Grade Divisions

Grades K-2, Location: S/C Gymnasium 8:00-9:15am

$45/$50NR

Grades 3-6, Location: Middle School Gymnasium at Brockport Central 8:00-12:00pm

$95/$99NR/2nd Participant $85

Grades 7-12, Location: Middle School Gymnasium at Brockport Central 8:00-12:00pm

$95/$99NR/2nd Participant $85

*Registration Fee Includes T-shirt & Ball

Please make checks payable to TOWN OF SWEDEN

Register In Person or Mail To: Sweden/Clarkson Community Center 4927 Lake Rd Brockport, NY 14420 (585) 431–0090

Robin Govanlu, Chief of Behavioral Health, Oak Orchard Health, with a patient. Provided photo.

The following students were named to the spring 2024 president’s list at SUNY

Cortland:

•Sarah Adams of Rochester

- Major: exercise science

•Isabelle Anderson of Hilton - Major: inclusive childhood education

•Elisabeth Daley of Rochester - Major: speech & hearing Science

•Travis Firkins of Hilton - Major: communication studies

•Dylan Harter of Rochester

- Major: political science

•Riley Letta of Hilton - Major: psychology

•Matthew McDermott of Rochester - Major: exercise science

•Alayna Miller of Hilton

- Major: psychology

•Layla Myers of HamlinMajor: international studies

•Hannah Ricotta of Hilton

- Major: early childhood and childhood education B-6

•Sophia Striemer of Rochester - Major: early childhood and childhood education B-6

•Cleo Wadkins of Rochester

- Major: speech & hearing science.

Julia Zigrossi of Spencerport, was named to the spring 2024 dean’s list at James Madison University, Harrisonburg, Virginia. Zigrossi is majoring in accounting -BBA.

The following students were named to the 2024 spring dean’s list at Alfred State:

•Faith Avedisian: continuing education Non-DegreeHilton Central High School

•William Banner : heavy equipment operationsBrockport High School

•Brody Bonczyk: welding technology - Brockport High School

•Kenneth Carr : architecture - Churchville-Chili Sr High School

•Sophia Christopher : welding technology - Churchville-Chili Sr High School

•Noah Cummings: computer science - Churchville-Chili Sr High School

•Silas Egenlauf: construction management - Spencerport High School

•Brianna Fagan : architecture - Spencerport High School

•Karlee Hargather: health sciences - Hilton Central High School

•Aiden Hoffarth: building trades-building construction - Spencerport High School

•Connor Ingham: surveying & geomatics eng tech - Wheatland-Chili Central School

•Lexington Jackson : forensic science technology - Spencerport High School

•Erin Kuhn: criminal justice - Churchville-Chili Sr High School

death notices

•Lillian LaShomb : individual studies - Brockport High School

•Elaina Luce: criminal justice - Brockport High School

•Jacob Malone : financial planning - Spencerport High School

•Ariana Mateo: diagnostic medicals onography - Brockport High School

•Colby Pokracki: construction supervision - Churchville-Chili Sr High School

•Jacob Rightmyer: architectural technology - Brockport High School

•Nicholas Rosipayla: elec cons & maint electricianSpencerport High School

•Ezra Schmeer: elec cons & maint electrician - Spencerport High School

•Alexander Shakeshaft : heavy equip T & D technician - Churchville-Chili Sr High Sch

•Bennett Zarpentine : heavy equipment operationsHilton Central High School

•Ethan Kuhn of Holley, biological science

•Julia Buck of Holley, financial planning.

Samantha Place of Brockport, achieved a perfect 4.0 GPA during the spring 2024 semester, earning a spot on the provost’s list at Hofstra University, Hempstead, NY.

Samantha’s major is accounting.

and drama and dance critic, posts which she continued for Rochester’s City newspaper. She met and married Ronald A. Watts, a fellow journalist at the Democrat & Chronicle, with whom she had three children. The couple moved to Brussels where they worked for the International Federation of Journalists for six years, he, arranging journalism training in Africa and Asia, and she, editing The Journalist’s World. In 1968 the couple returned to work in public relations at SUNY Brockport. Sarah taught journalism courses. Ronald Watts died in 1987.

After more than fifty years apart, she reunited with Thomas Bolam. They were married in 2003 and moved to Houston, TX and maintained a summer home in Brockport, NY and followed their interests in golfing, reading, and traveling.

The Watts and Bolam families will hold an Open House celebrating the life of Sarah at the Morgan-Manning House, Main Street, Brockport, NY on Friday, June 28 from 3 to 6 PM.

Anna Conjerti of Hilton was named to the spring 2024 dean’s list at Iowa State University, Ames, Iowa. Her major 2, general preveterinary medicine.

Amanda Stevens of Rochester, was named to the spring 2024 dean’s list at The College of Saint Rose in Albany, New York. Stevens is majoring in music industry (BS).

Abigail Sarmiento of Rochester (14626), was named to the spring 2024 dean’s list at Lincoln Memorial University, Harrogate, Tennessee.

The following students were named to the Phi Theta Kappa (PTK) honor society for two-year colleges:

•Casey Stappenbeck of Churchville

From Rochester:

•Tommy Baggett

•Matthew Callon

•Melissa Carroll

•Johnny Chandler

•David Everson

•Sheri Facey

•Jayzia Gaskin

•Davin

Gomulak-Cavicchiom

•Danielle Graham

•Laura Gruttadauria

•Dannetta

Lee-Singletary

•Jonquil

Persico-Glasgow.

long time Gates and Spencerport resident, passed away peacefully on June 12. She was 94.

husband of 50 years, William Rauch. She is survived by her daughters Ellen Rauch, Rebecca Robbins, Amy Donovan (Scott), five grandchildren, five greatgrandchildren, her sister Susan Melander (Larry) and one niece.

date. More information can be found at www. beanandsonsfuneralhome.com.

The following students were named to the spring 2024 dean’s list at LeMoyne College, Syracuse:

•Sierra Edwards of Rochester, a management and leadership major

•Matthew Frisa of Spencerport, a psychology major

•Anita Jepchirchir of Rochester, a nursing major

•Jamie Laemlein of Rochester, a management and leadership and marketing major

•Katie McKee of Spencerport, an accounting major

•Casey O’Gara of Rochester, a psychology major

•Emilee Polvino of Rochester, a biology major.

The following students were named to the 2024 spring dean’s list at Slippery Rock University, Slippery Rock, Pennsylvania:

• Isabella Buono of Spencerport

• Tyler Cerame of Rochester

•Nicole Masi of Rochester

• Italia Romano of Rochester.

Tim Buonaugurio of Rochester, earned a degree from Grove City College on May 18, 2024. Buonaugurio earned a bachelor of science degree in accounting.

Lucia Rosa La Gamba of Rochester, was named to the spring 2024 dean’s list at Shenandoah University, Winchester, Virginia.

The following students were named to the 2024 spring dean’s list or president’s list at The University of Alabama, Tuscaloosa, Alabama:

•Nicholas Teta of North Chili was named to the president’s list

•Joshua Barron of Rochester (14626) was named to the dean’s list.

Nicholas Teta of North Chili, received his bachelor of arts degree from the University of Alabama, Tuscaloosa, Alabama during its spring commencement ceremonies.

Jorge Oropeza of Rochester was named to the spring 2024 dean’s list at Russell Sage College, Troy, NY.

The following part-time students were recognized for academic achievement during the spring 2024 semester at SUNY Canton:

• Melanie R. Bostick of Brockport, a crime analysis major

•Christopher Balonek of Churchville, an emergency management major.

William D. Donahue

William D. Donahue, a longtime resident of Spencerport, New York, passed away on June 15, 2024 at the age of 76.

Born in Rochester, New York, Bill spent the majority of his life in the Spencerport community, where he enjoyed a successful career as a real estate broker. An avid Yankees fan, Bill’s other great passions included boating, fishing, and restoring classic Penn Yan Sealiner boats. He even served as the Erie Canal Dockmaster in Spencerport for a period of time. Bill was predeceased by his parents, William and Winifred Donahue, as well as his brother, John Donahue. He will be missed and is survived by his six children – Laurie, Diane, Bill (Jackie), Katie (Leamon), Michael, and Tom – along with 13 grandchildren, 3 great-grandchildren, and his special friend, Barb. Visitation will be held on Monday, July 1st from 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM at the Walker Brothers Funeral Home, 15 West Ave. in Spencerport. The funeral Mass will take place the following day, Tuesday, July 2nd, at 11:00 AM at St. John the Evangelist Church, 55 Martha St. in Spencerport. In lieu of flowers, the family has requested that donations be made to the National Kidney Foundation, in recognition of the exceptional care Bill received from the staff at Unity Dialysis in Spencerport over the past 5 years.

be made to Anchor Baptist Church, 518 North Greece Road, Hilton, NY 14468 or to Hospice of Orleans County, 14080 NY31, Albion, NY 14411. Arrangements entrusted to Thomas E. Burger Funeral Home, Hilton.

hilton

•Murray, Virginia Marie, died June 18, 2024 at age 87. She was predeceased by her parents, Paul and Marie Klem; her husband, John “Jack” Murray (2010); her son, John J. Murray (1978); and her sister-in-law, Marge Klem. She is survived by her son, Paul Murray; her brother, Paul Klem; her caregiver, Mary Jo Murray (Paul) Sawyko; and several nieces, nephews, cousins, and many friends. Virginia was a devout member of St. Leo’s Catholic Church, where she belonged to the choir and the Resurrection Choir. She enjoyed reading, word searches, baking, crewel embroidery, cross stitch crafting and in her younger years, horseback “reining.”

Her Funeral Mass was held June 21 at St. Leo the Great Church, Hilton. Interment at Holy Ghost Cemetery, Gates. Contributions in memory of Virginia can be made to the Muscular Dystrophy Association, PO Box 97075, Washington, DC 20090-70751. Arrangements entrusted to the Thomas E. Burger Funeral Home, Hilton.

Sports & Recreation

Spencerport’s Gorton new head coach at St. Andrews University

by Warren Kozireski

Spencerport and SUNY

Brockport graduate Henry Gorton was named the new men’s volleyball coach at St. Andrews University in North Carolina. This follows four seasons on the Spencerport High School coaching staff (2020-2023) where the team garnered a Section V title every season and finished second (2021 and 2022) and third (2023) in the New York State championships, and this past season as an assistant coach at St. John Fisher for one year (2023-2024).

“I’ve played volleyball for years and started working after college in a field that I was disinterested in, because I thought that’s what I had to do to be an adult,” Gorton said via email. “Around five years ago, something clicked in my head, and I decided I would rather put some more effort in and find a job doing something that I loved.

“Around the same time, my high school coach, Aaron Austin, reached out to me and asked if I would be interested in getting involved with the program that I played for in high school. I fell in love with coaching and began taking every opportunity I could to work with kids from all ages, elementary school to college level, improving their skills and getting them excited about the sport.

“This past year I assistant coached at St. John Fisher with head coach Matt Cohen and assistant coach John McCarty and realized that this could be a career, and with coach Cohen’s help, I was put in contact with St. Andrews University down in Laurinburg, NC.”

The Cardinals finished with a 25-6 record and, along with the Section V success, drew the attention of the Knights.

“As a head coach for Henry Gorton (as he graduated from Spencerport) and now a colleague, I have taken pride in mentoring him, supporting his desires to be a passionate, hard-working, strategy-oriented leader,” said Aaron Austin, Spencerport boys volleyball head coach. “He has grown as a person and coach through hands-on experience and continuous feedback. Henry is ready to challenge his team and prepare them for the on- and off-court challenges and responsibilities of college volleyball and life. I am confident in his ability to inspire and lead his own program.”

“I have learned so much from all of the coaches I have been around for my playing and coaching career,” Gorton said. “My mother has always said you can learn from every person you meet. Coach Austin is amazing at getting athletes bought into the program and making kids passionate about being a part of the team. Coach Cohen is so good at staying calm under pressure and being able to convey whatever message needs to get through during an otherwise frantic situation. I hope to use all the tools that I have learned from past coaches and be the best coach that I can.”

After his high school playing career, Gorton played men’s club volleyball while attending SUNY Brockport and that provided one of his favorite memories as a player.

“My favorite memory playing volleyball is keeping Brockport’s club D2 State Championship run going (state champions from 2009 to 2023) and winning the 2018 ECVA East Coast Championship my senior year and being awarded 2018 ECVA D2 MVP.

“My favorite coaching memories are watching players grow from timid middle schoolers to confident and competent teammates and leaders in their later high school years. I enjoy running into alumni at events or now at college matches, and being able to see just how much they have grown and benefited from sports and the lessons sports teach us.”

2024 Spring College SportS HonorS

by Warren Kozireski

•St. John Fisher women’s lacrosse junior and Hilton grad Sydney Carpenter was named Empire 8 Offensive Player of the Year for the second time in her career and First Team All-Conference and earned First-Team All-American Honors by USA Lacrosse and Third-Team Honors by IWLCA. She earned First Team All-Region honors by IWLCA for the third straight season. She led the Cardinals in goals (42), assists (26), and points (68) during the regular season, then added 15 more goals and three more assists during postseason play. She finished the regular season second in the conference in assists per game (1.63) and tied for second for points per game (4.25).

•Hilton native and Utica College senior outfielder Jason Story was named Empire 8 First Team All-Conference in baseball and to the American Baseball Coaches Association/Rawlings All-Region III Second Team, becoming just the seventh player in program history so honored. Story set the new single-season program record with 11 home runs which also led the Empire 8. He slashed .355/.460/.674 with 20 total extra-base hits, 38 RBIs, and 42 runs scored while going 11for-13 on stolen bases.

•Churchville-Chili grad and Geneseo sophomore attack Alaina Reina was named Second Team All-Region by the Intercollegiate Women’s Lacrosse Coaches Association (IWLCA) and Second Team All-SUNYAC in women’s lacrosse. She tallied a team high 46 goals including 22 assists for 68 points on the season. In just her second season with the Knights, she eclipsed the 100 goal and 100-point mark in her career.

•Spencerport’s Connor Mesh was named First Team AllConference in Empire 8 men’s lacrosse for the second consecutive season after the St. John Fisher junior short-stick defensive midfielder placed fourth on the team in caused turnovers (11).

•St. John Fisher junior Veronica Duell (Byron-Bergen) earned Empire 8 First-Team recognition in the long jump (5.68 meters) and was involved in the 4x100 meter relay team (0:52.89) that made the Third Team.

•Churchville-Chili grad Sophia Podszebka of Roberts Wesleyan was named All-East Region Second Team and earned East Coast Conference Midfielder of the Year honors after she set a single-season Roberts record of 163 draw controls, which was second in NCAA Division II. The senior also had 31 points on 20 goals and 11 assists. Teammate Emma Blumenstock was a first team selection as an attacker after scoring 104 points on 42 goals and 62 assists in the season to lead the Redhawks. Annie Mulhall, Madelyn Robinson, and Lucy Rugaber were also Second Team All-Region honorees.

•Nazareth College junior and Spencerport alum Andrew Bodensteiner was named Second Team All-Conference in Empire 8 men’s volleyball, ranking third in the conference in attack percentage and fourth in blocks.

•Hayden Penna (Hilton) of St. John Fisher earned Empire 8 First-Team All-Conference honors in men’s track & field after

clearing the bar at 4.60 meters. Teammate Sophia Leach (Hilton) earned Second-Team Empire 8 recognition in the 400-meter dash (1:00.08) and 400-meter hurdles (1:07.88).

•SUNY Brockport junior defense Tim Hubbard (Hilton) was named Second Team All-SUNYAC in men’s lacrosse. He finished tied for 10th in SUNYAC in ground balls and recorded a team-high 18 turnovers. Teammate Nick Askin was named the 2024 SUNYAC Men’s Lacrosse Offensive Player of the Year, with brother Nate Askin joining Hubbard on the Second Team. Nick Askin rewrote the Brockport record book in his lone season as a Golden Eagle setting new singleseason records in both goals (63) and points (70), in addition to breaking the Brockport single-game goals record with a 10-goal effort against Westminster on March 9. Nate Askin finished the season with 15 goals for 28 points and ten ground balls, finishing with a team second-best 13 assists.

•Geneseo junior outfielder Tori Guary (Spencerport) was named Second Team All-SUNYAC in softball after hitting over .300 on the season, good enough for top six on the team and top 40 in the league.

•Brockport HS and SUNY Brockport senior Eliza Gonzalez was named First Team All-SUNYAC in women’s tennis singles and Second Team in doubles with partner Olivia Raschiatore. Gonzalez was named to the SUNYAC AllConference Team for the third time after posting a 7-5 record as Brockport’s #1 singles player with a 15-8 record across both doubles and singles play. Serving as Brockport’s first doubles team, Raschiatore and Gonzalez finished with an 8-4 record as a duo.

•SUNY Brockport track & field produced several All-Americans highlighted by Rebecca Heuler, who was the National Champion in Javelin and First Team All-American. Her 47.35m throw set a new outdoor program record and is the 16th longest in Division III history.

Brockport HS grad Jacob Miller (Men’s 400m), Jonathan Zavala (Men’s 1500m), Mia Montgomery (Women’s Long Jump), Matthew Jackson (Hammer Throw), and the 4x400 Relay Team of Craig Duffy, Ayden Grinion, Michael Durski, and Miller were named Second Team All-American.

•Brockport senior gymnasts Maren Eramo and Emma Grace Sargent were named All-Americans by the Women’s Collegiate Gymnastics Association. Eramo, a first team selection, was the co-champion on the Vault with a score of 9.825 at nationals while Sargent earned second team status on the Uneven Bars with a school-record season-high of 9.850.

•Roberts Wesleyan head men’s volleyball coach Mike Dedee was named the East Coast Conference Co-Coach of the Year and Moises Jimenez was named the ECC Libero of the Year with five players earning All-Conference honors for the firstyear program, which was the No. 2 seed in the ECC Championships and won a National Christian College Athletic Association Invitational Title. Jimenez led the conference in digs this season with 219 in total – fifth in the country. Paul Fillion, Jonah Grbic, Noah Liousfi, and Griffin Monrad were all named All-Conference with all having over 100 kills on the season.

•Roberts Wesleyan fifth-year pole vaulter Brynn King was named the ECC’s 2024 Outdoor Track and Field Female Athlete of the Year and Mark McCown, who guided the Redhawks men’s program to their second consecutive ECC Championship, was named the ECC’s Men’s Outdoor Track and Field Coach of the Year. King set a personal, meet and NCAA Division II record by clearing 4.68 meters (15-4 1/4). She also broke a 13-year-old meet record (4.51 meters, 14-9 1/2) by winning the Kansas Relays on April 19. McCown has led the men to three ECC titles in the past four seasons.

•Four members of the Roberts Wesleyan University men’s lacrosse team have earned postseason honors from the East Coast Conference. Junior attack Gunner MacMillan and sophomore defender Brady Kustra have been named to the ECC First Team and senior attack Jordon Deats and senior long stick midfielder Luke Delavak have been selected to the Second Team. MacMillan established a Roberts single-season record with 62 goals this spring and tied for the ECC lead with 78 points. Kustra caused a team-high 30 turnovers, which ranked fourth in the conference. Deats scored a career-high 36 goals and led the team with 35 assists. Delavak ranked second on the team in ground balls with 68.

•SUNY Brockport baseball had five Second-Team All-Conference picks in Justin DelVecchio, Jason Mansell, Zach Eldred, Cole Traudt, and David Belsito. DelVecchio led the Brockport pitching staff with 50 strikeouts to go with a 3.50 ERA (third in SUNYAC). His 126 career strikeouts rank eighth in program history. Mansell registered a team-best 200 putouts at catcher with 23 assists and just two errors for a .991 fielding percentage. Eldred completed his senior season with 133 career hits, 16 home runs (fifth all-time) and 101 RBIs (eighth all-time) for his career. Traudt was second in hits (34), first in doubles (9), first in triples (2), second in homers (2), third in RBIs (22), and hit .386 at the plate. Belsito totaled 129 putouts, 13 assists, and just two errors for a .986 fielding percentage.

•The Golden Eagles had seven players earn All-SUNYAC honors in women’s lacrosse while Tristan Davis was named the SUNYAC Rookie of the Year. Cassidy Burnash and Alayna Foos were First Team selections while Davis, Sarah Kilburn, Kaeli McCarthy, Journey Naab, and Adrianna Reed were Third Team. Burnash is now a three-time AllSUNYAC selection after she set career-highs of 83 points (second in SUNYAC) and 41 assists (third in SUNYAC) to go with 42 goals to finish her career at Brockport with 250 points (fourth All-Time), 160 goals (fourth All-Time), and 90 assists. Foos is also a three-time All-SUNYAC player after she set career-best numbers across the board offensively with 52 goals (sixth in the SUNYAC) and had 14 assists to give her a career-best total of 66 points. Davis made an immediate impact on the field for the Green and Gold and finished the year third on the team with 40 total points and was second on the team with 45 draw controls. Kilburn snagged a team-best 70 draw controls (8th in the SUNYAC) and finished fourth on the team in total points (30).

Henry Gorton on the sideline coaching the Rangers.

Photo by Krissy Berry.

Henry Gorton. Provided photo.

Gorton inherits a solid program that finished third in the regular season with a 22-10 overall record before losing to eventual Appalachian Athletic Conference champion Reinhardt in the semi-finals. And a roster that featured 23 underclassmen including 17 freshmen, seven of whom played regularly.

DOUGLAS

Robotics Team 3015 honoring their exceptional 2024 season. This year, the team won the Buckeye Regional in Cleveland, Ohio, securing their 20th blue banner. Additionally, they earned two Autonomous Awards and qualified for the FIRST World Championship in Houston, Texas, for the eleventh consecutive year.

“Every year, my family looks forward to attending local robotics competitions to witness the spectacular and innovative robot technology on full display,” said Ogden Town Supervisor Mike Zale. “We’re fortunate to have access to such a unique and advanced program at Spencerport Central School District. It’s always special to see our community come together to support our Ranger Robotics team.

It was a pleasure to recognize this close-knit team for a tremendous season and to highlight the hard work and dedication that makes this program so successful.”

Ranger Robotics Team 3015 participates in various robotics competitions, collaboratively designing, building, and programming robots to compete in specific challenges. This offers each participant the opportunity to develop critical skills in teamwork, programming, engineering, and problem-solving.

“Thank you to Joe Gallina, Zac Case, and all the devoted mentors and volunteers who make this program possible. Your steadfast commitment provides students with invaluable hands-on experiences and memories that they will cherish for a lifetime,” concluded Zale.

Provided information and photo

the Year Award for her dedication to the club.

Provided information and photos

The Chili Lions Club recently held their Installation End of the Year Picnic 2024 to celebrate another year of hard work and dedication to the community. New officers for next year were sworn in by Greg Lund of the Brockport Lions Club. The officers for 2024-2025 will be (l-r) Tail Twister Dorinda Foos, Director Bonnie Platt, Vice President Bert Maggio, Treasurer Tom Platt, Cristina Candelaria – Marketing, Secretary Keri Neathawk, and President Joe Korn. Not pictured area LCIF Director Karen McCloskey and Mike Donner – Membership.

Outgoing President Karen McCloskey (left) presented Debbie Mancini (right) with the Lion of

Brockport Lion Greg Lund (left) presented Keri Neathawk and Larry Lazenby (right) with a pin for sponsorship towards the 1.5 Million Lions International goal.

Outgoing President Karen McCloskey (left) with 2024-2025 President Joe Korn (right).

The Needles Mission Club of the First Congregational Church of Spencerport, UCC began in 2009. At first, they met as a group once a month and socialized while they knitted (or just chatted), at times giving lessons to newcomers. Sometimes the group saw consistent faces, other times people drifted in and out, and the group always had friends who participated from home. At times there have even been mystery contributors, where a knitted square or blanket just appears at church. While the club has lost some of their original gang, they are still using Elaine Hay’s yarn stash.

As times evolved, the monthly gatherings ended, and folks did what they could at home. At first, there were only knitters, then crocheters joined, and sometimes a quilter or sewer would contribute as well (hence the name “Needles” – it doesn’t matter what kind). The primary product was always lap robes/blankets; hats were added in

Needles Mission Club marks 15 years

2020 during the pandemic (the lockdown definitely encouraged greater productivity in 2020 and 2021).

The club has never had more than six or seven members at any one time, each contributing in her own way – knitter, crocheter, and sewer (and delivery driver). But from this modest group has come amazing things over the past 15 years.

Since 2009, Needles Mission Club has donated 742 blankets and 158 hats, plus an assortment of other knitted items (shawls, baby clothes, baptismal hats, etc.). Recipients have been primarily the Wilmot Cancer Center, Roswell Cancer Center, and Spencerport dialysis center, but also the Batavia VA, a Girl Scout Gold badge project, and others, as well as individual patients that were church members and family and friends of the church. Club members plan to proudly continue their mission.

Provided information and photo

schools all celebrated

on

with songs, performances, and readings. At Canal View, service club students led the ceremony, with a special tribute in honor of the veterans in attendance. Photo from @SpencerportCSD on X.

Spencerport’s four elementary

Wanted - golf course mechanic, retirees welcome. Part-time gardener needed, cook, night and weekend rangers needed. Fill out application at the Golf Pro Shop, Salmon Creek Country Club, 355 Washington Street, Spencerport.[TFN).

Shop Local • Hire Local

Become a published author. We want to read your book! Dorrance Publishing trusted since 1920. Consul-tation, production, promotion & distribution. Call for free author’s guide 1-877-729-4998 or visit dorranceinfo.com/ads Safe Step. North America’s #1 Walkin tub. Comprehensive lifetime warranty. Top-of-the-line installation and service. Now featuring our free shower package & $1600 off - limited time! Financing available. 1-855-417-1306

Wesley Financial Group, LLC Timeshare Cancellation ExpertsOver $50,000,000 in timeshare debt & fees cancelled in 2019. Get free info package & learn how to get rid of your timeshare! Free consultations. Over 450 positive reviews. 833-308-1971 Don’t let the stairs limit your mobility! Discover the ideal solution for anyone who struggles on the stairs, is concerned about a fall or wants to regain access to their entire home. Call AmeriGlide today! 1-833-399-3595

sistant will complete numerous clerical tasks (phone, correspondence, parish records, coordination of calendars, ect.) to help ensure effective communications and office operations. Preferred qualifications include an Associate’s Degree or higher and/or previous secretarial or office administrative experience. This will be a full time position with hours being Monday-Friday, 8:00-4;30. Salary is $16.00$18.00/hr. based on experience. Resumes and requests for a full job description can be emailed to ksb82857@msn. com. Application deadline is July 10, 2024.[6-30]

and help your neighbors. Email chuckbradybvac@ gmail.com or medic2397@ yahoo.com for more information: Visit us on our website at www.brockportambulance. org. Non-Emergent call - 585431-3337. Please leave a detailed message with your name and phone number. We will get back to you as soon as we can. Neighbors Helping Neighbors since 1962.[TFN).

Bills passed to strengthen EMS and level the playing field in short-term rentals

In the final hours of the 2024 State Legislative Session, bipartisan majorities of the Assembly and Senate adopted pieces of legislation supported by the New York State Association of Counties (NYSAC) that will strengthen local Emergency Medical Services (EMS) and enable counties to collect sales tax and hotel/motel occupancy tax (outside of New York City) from short-term rental companies like AirBnB and VRBO. Both pieces of legislation were among NYSAC’s top priorities for this year’s Legislative Session. One bill, S.8486-A (Hinchey)/A.9102-A (Kelles) authorizes EMS providers to receive reimbursement for treating patients at the point of emergency and transporting patients to non-hospital healthcare facilities. The legislation was part of NYSAC’s “Rescue EMS” legislative package.

“This is a significant step forward for EMS systems struggling to stay solvent amid rising costs and outdated funding formulas that impose a ‘one-size-fits-all’ requirement for ambulances to transport patients to a hospital,” said NYSAC President and Albany County Executive Daniel P. McCoy. He also thanked lawmakers for their “commitment to ensuring

EMS providers are fairly compensated for providing patients with the care they need.”

Another bill, S.885-B (Hinchey) / A.4130-A (Fahy), requires short-term home rental agencies, such as VRBO, AirBnB, and others collect sales tax and hotel/motel occupancy tax (outside of New York City).

“By working constructively with our partners in the State

Legislature, we’ve been able to achieve significant progress on measures that will provide a critical lifeline to local EMS and establish a fair system for short-term rentals that will directly benefit local communities by funding essential services, such as public safety, social services, and infrastructure improvements,” said NYSAC Executive Director Stephen Acquario. Provided information

Hawley praises pay raises for correction officers

Assemblyman Steve Hawley (R,C-Batavia) recently commented on the newly announced pay raises for correction officers in New York. The New York State Correctional Officers & Police Benevolent Association, Inc. (NYSCOPBA) announced they reached an agreement on a new three-year contract with the state earlier this spring. On top of wage increases, the contract also includes new bonuses, reduced health care costs, and up to 12 weeks of fully paid parental leave. Hawley believes this new deal is a step in the right

direction toward supporting our correction officers. “With the threat of prison closures across our state, our correction officers need all the support they can get,” said Hawley. “Providing pay raises and better benefits is just one way we can repay them for all they do to keep us safe. This new contract is a great sign of progress in supporting our correction officers and I hope we continue to see more strides in this area as we provide for our law enforcement personnel.” Provided information

LegaL NoticeS

Legal Notice

Village of Churchville

Please take notice that the Annual Financial Reports for the fiscal year March 1, 2023 – February 29, 2024 for the Village of Churchville are on file in the New York State Office of the State Comptroller and at the Village Clerk’s Office, 23 E Buffalo Street, Churchville, NY and are available for inspection during regular office hours.

Stacy

L. Stanton Clerk/Treasurer

Village of Churchville

Legal Notice

ADVERTISEMENT FOR BIDS TOWN OF CLARKSON CLARKSON, NEW YORK

WATER IMPROVEMENT BENEFIT AREA NO. 1

General Notice

Town of Clarkson (Owner) is requesting Bids for the construction of the following Project:

Water Improvement Benefit Area No. 1

In accordance with Section 103 of Article 5-A of the General Municipal Law, sealed Bids for the construction of the Project will be received at the office of the Town of Clarkson, located at 3710 Lake Road, PO Box 858, Clarkson, New York 14430, until July 16, 2024, at 10:00 AM local time. At that time the Bids received will be publicly opened and read.

The Project includes the following Work:

The proposed improvement consist of the installation of approximately 71,000 linear feet (LF) of 8” water main, directional boring of 8” water main, valves, hydrants and appurtenances along portions of Drake Road, Ireland Road, Lawton Road, Monroe Orleans County Line Road, Redman Road, Sweden Walker Road and West Avenue in the Town of Clarkson.

Sealed Bids are requested for the following Contract: Water Main Installation

Obtaining the Bidding Documents Information and Bidding Documents for the Project can be found at the following designated website: www.avalonroch-planroom.com (New York Projects)

The Bidding Documents must be obtained through the Avalon Planroom in order to be considered a Plan Holder of record. Bidding Documents obtained from any other source are for examination only, are not considered complete and are not valid for bidding purposes.

Bidding Documents may be examined at the offices of MRB Group (The Culver Road Armory, 145 Culver Road, Suite 160, Rochester, N.Y. 14620) on Mondays through Fridays between the hours of 9:00 AM and 3:30 PM. Bidding Documents will not be available from MRB Group or the Owner.

A pre-bid conference for the Project will be held on July 10, 2024 at 10:00AM at 3710 Lake Road, Clarkson, New York 14430. Attendance at the pre-bid conference is encouraged but not required.

Instructions to Bidders.

The Town of Clarkson, Monroe County, New York, reserves the right to reject any or all bids, or to waive any informalities, or to make an award to other than the low bidder. It further reserves the right to limit the amount of the award.

Attention of the bidders is particularly directed to the requirements of the conditions of employment to be observed and minimum Wage Rates to be paid under the Contract.

The Town of Clarkson does not discriminate on the basis of handicapped status in admission or access to, or treatment or employment in, its programs and activities.

Bid security shall be furnished in accordance with the Instructions to Bidders.

For all further requirements regarding bid submittal, qualifications, procedures, and contract award, refer to the Instructions to Bidders that are included in the Bidding Documents.

American Iron and Steel

Section 746 of Title VII of the Consolidated Appropriations Act of 2017 (Division A - Agriculture, Rural Development, Food and Drug Administration, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2017) and subsequent statutes mandating domestic preference applies an American Iron and Steel requirement to this project. All iron and steel products used in this project must be produced in the United States. The term “iron and steel products” means the following products made primarily of iron or steel: lined or unlined pipes and fittings, manhole covers and other municipal castings, hydrants, tanks, flanges, pipe clamps and restraints, valves, structural steel, reinforced precast concrete, and Construction Materials.

The following waivers apply to this Contract: De Minimis, Minor Components, Pig iron and direct reduced iron

This Advertisement is issued by:

Owner: Town of Clarkson

By: Susan Henshaw

Title: Town Clerk

Date: June 17, 2024

Legal Notice Notice to Bidders Town of Ogden Library Heat Pump Replacement

PLEASE TAKE NOTICE the Town of Ogden requests bids for the replacement of the Town of Ogden Library Heat Pump in accordance with the bid specifications presently on file at the Town of Ogden Clerk’s Office, 269 Ogden Center Road, Spencerport, New York 14559 where they may be examined by all prospective bidders.

All bids so received will be publicly opened and read aloud on July 8th, 2024 at 10:00 am at the Town Clerk’s Office.

A pre-bid walkthrough is available by appointment. Contact Tony Mattia 585-506-5728 to schedule.

The Town of Ogden reserves the right to accept or reject all bids so received and to apply the Town of Ogden Best Value Contract Local Law in awarding the bid.

Noelle

Town

Burley

Clerk, Town of Ogden

Legal Notice

Town of Sweden

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that, pursuant to the provisions of Town Law, and the Town of Sweden Land Use Development and Subdivision Regulations, a public hearing will be held by the Planning Board at the Town Offices, 18 State Street, Brockport, New York, on Monday, July 8, 2024, commencing at 7 p.m. to consider the following:

Application of Jason and Bethany Matsko, 17 Long Point Lane, Brockport, New York, for approval of the Matsko Subdivision, being a resubdivision of Lot 108 of the Northview Subdivision, Section 1, located at 17 Long Point Lane, Brockport, New York. Applicants are proposing to add ±0.500 acres to the west of the existing lot. The property is owned by Jason and Bethany Matsko, tax account number: 083.01-1-43 and 083.01-1-27.3 (part of).

Also, application of William and Teresa Allocco, 35 Sequoia Drive, Rochester, New York, for approval of the Grandland Subdivision, being a resubdivision of Lot 1 of the Tyler-Allocco Subdivision, located at 203 Swamp Road, Brockport, New York. Applicants are proposing to subdivide the property into two lots. Lot 1, ± 0.925 acres, including the existing house, and Lot 2, ±8.402 acres. No new development is proposed. The property is owned by William J. and Teresa M. Allocco., tax account number: 099.04-1-2.11.

Maps and information are on file in the Town of Sweden offices and may be inspected during regular business hours.

TOWN OF SWEDEN

Craig McAllister Planning Board Chairman

Legal Notice

PROBATE CITATION File No. 2022-122/A and /C

SURROGATE’S COURT - GENESEE COUNTY CITATION

THE PEOPLE OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK

By the Grace of God Free and Independent

TO: Tara Jo Nichols, if she be living, and if she be dead to her heirs-at-law, next of kin, distributees, if any such there be, all of whom and all of whose names, ages, places of residence and post office addresses are unknown to the Petitioner and cannot after due diligence used be ascertained and Hon. Letita James - Attorney General of the State of New York.

A petition having been duly filed by J. Craig Nichols, who is domiciled at 57 Sequoia Drive, Rochester NY 14624.

YOU ARE HEREBY CITED TO SHOW CAUSE before the Surrogate’s Court Genesee County, at Genesee County Courts Facility, Suite 200, One West Main Street, Batavia, New York, on 1st day of August, 2024 at 9:15 o’clock in the forenoon of that day, why a decree should not be made in the estate of David K. Nichols lately at domiciled at 6461 Swamp Road, Byron NY 14422 admitting to probate a Will dated 10th day of March, 2011 (a Codicil dated - n/a -) a copy of which is attached, as the Will of David K. Nichols deceased, relating to real and personal property, and directing that

•Letters Testamentary to J. Craig Nichols

•Letters of Trusteeship to J. Craig Nichols

Hon. MELISSA LIGHTCAP CIANFRINI Surrogate

Stephanie Lewandowski Chief Clerk

Dated, Attested and Sealed 5th day of June, 2024

Timothy Pellittiere

Spencerport HS hosts job fair for graduating seniors

Spencerport High School held its first annual job fair on June 7, where area employers met with seniors on opportunities in the workforce after graduation.

Seniors, who are still undecided on their next chapter, learned about construction, education, law enforcement, manufacturing, trades, landscaping, automotive, and jobs at companies such as Tops and Wegmans. In addition, students came prepared with questions and resumes. One student said of the fair, “It opened up my eyes to opportunities I didn’t know existed.” Another added, “It made me more confident for after high school.”

Business representatives also weighed in saying, “The students were engaged and came with great questions. (The fair) gave our company a chance to be in front of potential employees, and that is a worthwhile experience.”

Businesses that participated in the district’s first job fair included Campus Construction, Monroe 2 BOCES, Town of Ogden, Fossil Rock Landscape, Tops, Wegmans, Monroe County Sheriff’s Office, Ironworkers of Rochester, West Herr Automotive, Gorbel, and Spencerport Human Resources.

Provided information and photo

LegaL NoticeS

Legal Notice Village of Churchville Notice to Bidders

Please take notice that pursuant to Section 103 of the General Municipal Law, the Board of Trustees of the Village of Churchville will receive sealed bids until 2:00 p.m. on July 8, 2024 at the Village Office located at 23 E. Buffalo Street for the following:

NEW SINGLE PHASE PAD-MOUNTED DISTRIBUTION TRANSFORMERS

Specifications may be obtained at the Village Office, 23 East Buffalo Street Churchville, New York at any time during regular business hours, 8:00 am to 4:00 pm Monday through Thursday, and 8:00 am to 1:00 pm on Friday.

No bidder may withdraw his bid within 30 days after the date set for the opening thereof, but may withdraw same at any time prior to the scheduled time for the opening of the bid.

The Board reserves the right to reject any or all bids.

Stacy L. Stanton Clerk/Treasurer

Legal Notice

Town of Riga

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN pursuant to Section 276 of the Town Law that a Public Hearing will be held by the Riga Planning Board on Monday July 1, 2024 at 7:00 PM, Town Hall, 6460 E. Buffalo Road, Churchville, New York, at which time all interested persons will be heard with regard to the following applications:

1. APPLICATION by Anne and Michael Lingeman, 932 Churchville Riga Road, Churchville, NY 14428 for a site plan for a single-family home. The 13.63acre property is located at 288 Malloch Road in the Town of Riga RA Rural/ Agricultural Zoning District. The proposed project consists of construction of a +/- 3,840 SF single-family home with an attached garage. Tax Account # 169.04-1-23

(585)347-2840

Attorney for Petitioner Telephone Number

Pellittiere & Johnson, PLLC, 441 Penbrooke Drive, Suite 12, Penfield, New York 14526

Address of Attorney

Attorney Email Address: tim@pjestatelaw.com

Copies of the above-referenced site plan maps may be seen at the Town Clerk’s office during normal business hours, 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Monday through Friday.

Dated: June 14, 2024

Trish Minni Town of Riga Planning Board Secretary

Legal Notice

Parma Public Library Public Hearing

Notice is hereby given that the Board of Trustees of the Parma Public Library will hold a public hearing on Tuesday, July 2nd at 6:00pm at the Parma Public Library, 7 West Ave, Hilton, New York regarding the use of reserve funds, up to $165,000, towards an ADA compliant repair and renovation project. This includes bathroom repairs and upgrades, and front door and exterior door replacements. Immediately following the public hearing will be a special called meeting of the Board of Trustees.

Dated: June 23, 2024 Grace Engelbrecht Library Director

Legal Notice

Town of Parma

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN THAT PURSUANT TO SECTION 276 OF TOWN LAW AS AMENDED, A PUBLIC HEARING WILL BE HELD BY THE PARMA PLANNING BOARD ON JULY 1, 2024 AT 7:00 PM IN THE PARMA TOWN HALL, 1300 HILTON PARMA CORNERS ROAD, HILTON, NEW YORK FOR THE PURPOSE OF CONSIDERING THE FOLLOWING:

1) Todd Ophardt, Owner of 1209 Peck Road

The applicant is requesting preliminary site plan approval for 1 lot. This property is located on the south side of Peck Rd approximately 1,670 feet east of Clarkson Parma Townline Rd. The total area of the property is approximately 8.7 acres. A single-family home with a garage is proposed in accordance with current zoning regulations.

All persons will be heard at this time. Interested parties may obtain further information by calling 392-9449 or by inspecting the project file in the Parma Town Hall during normal business hours.

Parma Planning Board

Keep up with projects in your neighborhood. Read WN Legal Notices.

Graduating seniors had the opportunity to meet area employers and learn about different career options.

Six Churchville-Chili students selected for summer ceramics residency program

Six Churchville-Chili Senior High School ceramic artists will have the opportunity to participate in a new high school residency program through Flower City Arts Center this summer.

Flower City Arts Center is hosting a ceramic studio high school residency for high school students in Monroe County. Through a portfolio review, application, and interview process, eight students in the county were selected to take part in this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity where they will have full access to the studio and materials all summer, along with a two-hour weekly coaching session with Studio Manager Kyle Lascelle and Teaching Artist Jacob Dambra.

Thirteen schools in Monroe County had students apply for the residency, with 35 students chosen to participate. The six Churchville-Chili student artists who were chosen are: Addisyn Klug (9), Allie Snyder (9), Madison Alley (11), Shavonne Callahan (11), Morgan Randolph (11), and Arlo Sushko (11).

During the residency, students will learn all aspects of managing a studio practice, including making clay and glazes, firing work, repairing kilns and safety best practices. They will also participate in demonstrations and critiques to build their understanding of the material and its potential use for personal expression.

Provided information and photo

Local pastor spends part of sabbatical at Princeton

Michael L. Sloan, pastor of the First Congregational Church UCC of Spencerport, is spending a portion of his sabbatical as an Engle Fellow at the Joe R. Engle Institute of Preaching at Princeton Theological Seminary.

He will transcribe and analyze 10 to 15 sermons of the noted African

American Minister, James Forbes, using the methods learned at the Joe R. Engle Institute. In 1993 and 1994, James Forbes was named by Ebony magazine as one of the greatest preachers in the nation.

This sabbatical project follows up on some of Rev. Sloan’s Doctoral research

on Rev. Dr. Forbes’ ministry at Riverside Church in Manhattan.

The Rev. Sloan has been the pastor of the First Congregational Church since February 2019.

Provided information and photo

SUNY Brockport to host Camp Abilities sports camp for children with visual impairments

Camp Abilities, the educational sports camp for children with visual impairments or deaf-blindness, will kick off its 29th annual camp at

SUNY Brockport from June 30 to July 6, 2024. The goal of the camp is to provide one-on-one instructional situations for each camper. The camp

will welcome 45 campers and over 60 dedicated coaches from around the world, including two Paralympians.

This year’s camp will feature multiple sports and activities many campers have never participated in before, including beep baseball, disc golf, high ropes course, stand up paddleboarding, and more. The camp continues to innovate in its 29th year, offering blind tennis to campers for the first time. Campers will also march in the July 4th parade that goes through the village of Brockport starting at 9:30 a.m., showcasing their tandem biking with both two- and seven-person bikes.

Camp Abilities continues to make an impact around the globe, offering camps in multiple countries around the world. International students from Ireland, Switzerland, Iceland, England, Canada, and Latvia will take part in training that will help them direct their own camps outside of the United States.

Detailed information about the camp schedule and activities can be found on the Camp Abilities website at https://www.campabilities.org/.

Provided information and photo

Host families needed for summer exchange program

New York families will have the opportunity to welcome a young person from Japan into their home for one month this year through the States’ 4-H International Exchange Program being offered by Cornell Cooperative Extension 4-H.

Host families are needed for 20 Japanese youth (aged 13 to 17) and their adult chaperones, who will visit New York from July 22 through August 15, 2024.

Host families provide the exchange youth with room and board and a chance to experience daily life in America. Families are urged not to alter their daily routines or lifestyles during their visitor’s stay. Exchange youth provide their own spending money, and the sponsoring organization furnishes comprehensive insurance and 24/7 support to families at the state and county levels.

All types of families are welcome to apply to become hosts, including urban, rural, single-parent, and non4-H families. One requirement is that families must have their own child of the same gender and approximate age as the international visitor. A 4-H volunteer will conduct an inter-

view in the home of the prospective host family and they must attend an orientation before the arrival of the Japanese youth.

Last year, 28 families from across NYS hosted delegates and greatly enjoyed the cultural exchange opportunity. As one host mother said, “I think it sparked interest for the kids to see new places and cultures. It will remind us to look outside the box we live in.”

Those interested should contact Autumn Lavine at 607-731-5075 or email aml84@cornell.edu

To apply, visit http://states4hexchange.org/host-families/ and complete the online application. For more information about this and other 4-H international exchange programs, please http://www.states4hexchange. org/.

Cornell Cooperative Extension is an employer and educator recognized for valuing AA/EEO, Protected Veterans, and Individuals with Disabilities and provides equal program and employment opportunities. Contact the program office at 845-340-3990 if you have any special needs. Provided information and photo

Japanese delegate, Kotomi, introduces her host sibling, Ella Davison, to traditional Japanese attire. Photo by Gail Davison.

Student artists (l-r) Shavonne Callahan, Addisyn Klug, Morgen Randolph, Arlo Sushko, Madison Alley, and Allie Snyder.

WE ARE OPEN FOR SERVICE!

NEW CUSTOMERS

Get A Sneak Peek Friday Mornings!

Digital copies of the Westside News print editions are now available for viewing Friday mornings. No need to wait for our carriers to deliver our publications to you. Plus, you can take a screenshot of anything in the paper for personal use. So, clip that coupon, save that article, send that photo to an out-of-town relative.

Local American Idol contestant to perform with Brockport Big Band

The Brockport Big Band is welcoming Spencerport High School senior Brianna Collichio to sing with the band on June 26 at the Rochester International Jazz Festival. Brianna appeared on American Idol in 2021 and made the trip to Hollywood. She will be joining the Brockport Big Band for all of their summer concerts.

Performances are scheduled for:

•June 26, 6 to 7 p.m., Jazz Festival big tent

•July 9, 7 to 8 p.m., Brickstone, Rochester

•July 16, 7 to 8 p.m., Legacy Fairport

•July 24, 6:30 to 8 p.m., Chili Senior Center

Get out & grow!

by Kristina Gabalski

Growing root vegetables

by Kristina Gabalski

Root vegetables are very satisfying to grow. You don’t really know what to expect until you harvest, but when you do, it’s like unearthing jewels for the table. However, growing root vegetables can also be disappointing because the crop does not always develop as it should. Understanding how root vegetables grow can lead to a better harvest.

Michigan State University Extension says that when we eat a root vegetable, we are eating the portion of the plant that grew below the ground. Root vegetables like beets, radishes, carrots, turnips, parsnips, and rutabagas are considered cool-season crops. It is best to grow them in the spring or in the fall, as hot weather can cause them to “bolt.” Root crops bolt when they produce flowers and seeds, which causes the root to have a bitter taste or very little taste at all. Soil, not surprisingly, is another important factor in growing root crops. Heavier soil makes it difficult for root crops to expand the edible portion beneath the soil. Michigan State says to loosen the soil to about 12 inches deep, but be careful not to over-till. Over-tilling can cause the soil to lose its structure, and when it gets wet, it repacks itself into an almost concrete-like consistency. Mix in compost or composted manure to your tilled soil. One-fourth of the volume of your soil should be compost or composted manure, meaning you should mix three to four inches into your soil. You can do this in two applications. Michigan State says the goal is to have five percent or more organic matter in your soil.

Soil pH for root crops should be slightly acidic - close to 6.5. You can purchase soil tests or take a dry soil sample to your local Cornell Cooperative Extension for testing. They can advise you if you need to adjust your soil. Fall is the best time for soil tests, as you have time for amendments to work before the next growing season. Proper soil pH helps plants get the nutrients they need to grow well.

Make sure that large stones and rocks are removed from the area where you will grow root crops, as these can also impede growth. If a carrot root runs into a hard object, it will develop another root or become crooked or misshapen. When harvest time comes, it can be very easy to damage the root.

Seeds for most root crops are tiny. After germination, carefully remove some of the seedlings to thin out your planting. Thinning allows more root room for the plants that remain. The tops or greens of some root crops can be eaten and are highly nutritious. Beet greens are one example - when you thin your crop, save the greens to eat.

Mulching also helps root crops by discouraging weeds and keeping the soil cooler and more moist. Straw, shredded paper, or leaf mulch works well, as they will break down after the season. Wood chips may end up as root blockers in future years.

Root crops like full sun, although beets will tolerate some shade. Keep them well-watered, as over half the mass of your vegetables is water. One inch a week is best, but plants will need more water during dry periods. Radishes are a fun, quick-growing crop. Carrots and beets take longer, but they can also withstand cold temperatures. Carrots left in the ground in the fall can become more sweet if harvested after frost. Some of the best carrots I have grown were harvested in January after a period of severe cold.

Beets are attractive plants and both the root and the greens on top can be eaten. Photo by Kristina Gabalski.

Brockport Big Band. Provided photos.