Greece News June/July 2024

Published by Westside News Inc.

New Summer Food Assistance for Children

Long-time Food Shelf supporters know requests for help historically peak in the summer when children are out of school. Summer meal program sites operated by the school district offer an option for families with transportation or those who live within walking distance. The final New York State budget for 2024-2025 includes $200 million in funding for a new, permanent program to help all eligible families: the Summer Electronic Benefit Transfer Program for Children.

A family can receive $40 a month for each child for a maximum of three months each summer. The program provides an electronic debit card that can be used to purchase food at grocery stores, farmer markets and any participating retailer.

Benefits will begin in July for those eligible. Children who receive Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) and/or Temporary Assistance (cash) benefits, are directly certified for free meals through Medicaid, or have been determined eligible for free/reduced price school meals by their school will automatically be

enrolled in the program. Other children can apply through the NYS Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance. They must attend a school that participates in the National School Lunch Program and meet income requirements. Provided Information

Greece News

1776 Hilton-Parma Corners Rd. Spencerport, NY 14559

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2024 Youth Hall of Fame

The Greece Regional Chamber of Commerce recently inducted 14 students into the 2024 Youth Hall of Fame, with key support from Presenting Sponsor Rochester Specialty Contractors. Now in its 34th year, the Chamber’s Youth Hall of Fame Program provides an important annual opportunity to recognize outstanding high school students who have demonstrated exceptional leadership and personal development along with dedicated service to our community and their peers.

The Youth Hall of Fame is an initiative of the Greece Regional Chamber of Commerce with support from regional businesses, schools, and government. Inductees are chosen annually by the Chamber’s Youth Hall of Fame Committee. The Committee reviews nominations of area 11th and 12th grade students who have shown leadership and community spirit through exceptional personal, volunteer, scholastic, and workforce achievement. Candidates for the award were nominated by high school teachers, counselors and administrators, area businesses, community youth agencies, service organizations, or area residents.

The 2024 Youth Hall of Fame Inductees are: Vaneathya Davis - Greece Arcadia; Sara DeSantis - Greece Arcadia; Amara Doane - Greece Olympia; Nicholas Fraser - Greece Olympia; Ariana Hawkins - Greece Olympia; Yoneil Hernandez Torres - Greece Athena; Makayla Kolb - Greece Arcadia; Bee QuallsGreece Athena High School & Phoenix Academy; Maria Reinhard - Greece Athena; Malila Ruffino - Greece Arcadia; Nadira SaidGreece Athena; Najma Said - Greece Athena; Kynnedi Thomas - Greece Arcadia; and Antonio Vero - Greece Arcadia.

The Youth Hall of Fame inductees will be featured in a yearlong display at the Greece Regional Chamber’s kiosk at The Mall at Greece Ridge to honor not only this year’s outstanding students but also those from the past 33 years, along with acknowledging this year’s sponsors.

For more information, contact the Chamber at Info@GreeceChamber.org or 585.227-7272.

Provided Information and Photo

Charlotte Genesee Lighthouse

Open for Tours

The Charlotte Genesee Lighthouse is now open for tours through, Sunday, October 27, 2024. In-Season hours of operation are Friday, Saturday and Sunday from 1:00PM to 5:00PM, with the last tour of the Tower at 4:30PM. Groups larger than five people should call ahead, 585-621-6179. Admission - Adults 18 years and older $5.00, Youth ages 5 to 17 years old $2.00, Children aged 4 or younger are Free. For more information call 585-621-6179 or email info@geneseelighthouse.org Provided Information

IILTON FAMILY

10 Greece News June/July 2024

Bike Ride and Rally held

for Accelerated Investments in Safe Bike Infrastructure

On May 3, 2024, the “Ride for the Spine” bike rally was held in support of acceleration of the 2023 Active Transportation Plans, (ATPs), adopted by the City of Rochester and Monroe County, that called for a “spine network” of connected bike routes that are safe and accessible for cyclists of all abilities.

Cyclists, pedestrians, and motorists die at higher rates traveling in Rochester than in any other city in New York. One major reason is the piecemeal, disconnected state of today’s bike infrastructure in and around our city. The ride and rally called upon elected officials to harden resolve, to close the gaps in the bike network, and to demonstrate support for their work completing the Bike Spine Network’s basic central axes, in a matter of years — not decades.

The Ride and Rally highlighted these immediate needs:

1. Build eight miles of protected bike lanes to complete the minimum grid now.

2. Build the seamless, high-comfort bike facility every time. When a road that was envisioned in the ATPs spine is up for repaving or reconstruction, the design must reflect protected bike lanes with connectivity to other parts of the network. Painted lanes only suffice for the envisioned “supporting corridor network” for more experienced riders. Protected bike facilities make all road users safer, including drivers. Low-cost materials are available and widely used nationwide.

3. Build resilience in the face of opposition. City and County

City of Rochester Mayor Malik D. Evans said, “Reconnect Rochester and Black Girls Do Bike have been great partners as we developed the City’s new Active Transportation Plan. We’re seeking to expand options for people who don’t have, or want, a car—options that are safer, more accessible, and available to everyone regardless of where they live in the city. Expanding our bicycle-friendly network is a key part of creating a safe and equitable transportation system.”

County Executive Adam D. Bello said, “Having an active transportation network for walking, using mobility devices and biking is essential to the health and safety of our residents. With our community’s help, Monroe County has completed its first ever Active Transportation Plan and our Department of Transportation is working with our partners in the Towns, Villages, and City to build more bike lanes and sidewalks. I support Reconnect Rochester’s mission of improving our infrastructure to make our community more accessible, equitable and inclusive.”

Congressman Joe Morelle said, “Safe and accessible bicycle networks help connect our community, allowing people to cycle comfortably, stay active, and travel in an environmentally friendly way. Reconnect Rochester’s expertise and advocacy has been essential to the ongoing growth and improvement of our city’s bike network. I am grateful for our partnership and look forward to continuing our work together to increase access to safe, sustainable transportation.”

Michelle R King of Black Girls Do Bike Rochester said, “I often think about something one of America’s great leaders, President John F. Kennedy said: ‘Nothing compares to the simple pleasure of riding a bike.”

Karen Rogers, CEO of EE Pathways said, ”Building and managing a truly inclusive cycling community in Monroe County means involving Black MWBEs at every step of the process It’s not just about creating new bike lanes; it’s about building bridges of opportunity and pathways to better health in historically marginalized communities.”

The Ride for the Spine followed a route from Genesee Valley Park to City Hall and back. Provided Information - Photo by Karen Fien

Tree Planting Ceremony in Honor of Kenneth B. Preston

Every year in observance of Arbor Day, the Town of Greece plants a tree to both honor a member of the community and to promote the importance of trees for our environment.

On May 21, 2024, this year’s tree was planted in memory of Kenneth B. Preston. Kenneth’s wife, Donna, attended the ceremony, along with family members, friends, and colleagues.

“Ken was not just a firefighter, but a beloved spouse, parent to Todd and Tammy, and a cherished grandparent to five grandchildren. Ken’s career journey began over six decades ago when he joined the North Greece Fire Department on July 10, 1962. For an astounding 61 years, he served as an active member. He rose through the ranks, becoming captain and serving as Fire Commissioner for over three decades. Ken also served as the Region 5 Director of the Association of Fire Districts of the State of New York for 12 years. Included in Ken’s robust portfolio is his effort in spearheading the establishment of the North Greece Fire District Length of Service Awards Program. Ken was the recipient of numerous accolades, including the prestigious Monroe County Joint Fire Service Leadership Meritorious Service Award in 2013. Ken is greatly missed by his family, friends, and community,” said Greece Town Supervisor Bill Reilich.

The tree planted in honor of Arbor Day this year was the Autumn Blaze Maple. One of the most striking features of this tree is its foliage. In spring and summer, the leaves are a deep green

color with a classic maple shape. However, it is in the fall when this tree truly shines. The foliage transitions to vibrant shades of orange, red, and sometimes even purple, creating a spectacular display of autumn colors. The tree is located along the Greece Town Campus Walking track on the North end of campus with a monument placed at the base of the tree. Provided information and photo

Members of Ken Preston’s family were joined by Town officials at the tree planting.

The Stutson House Hosts Greece Chamber Networking

The Stutson House, located at 36 Stutson Street, Rochester, recently hosted a Greece Regional Chamber of Commerce After Hours Business Networking event drawing 50+ business leaders from throughout the region. Craig Ristuccia, owner of The Stutson House and Hose 22 was on hand to give a little background of the property and its renovation.

For more information about The Stutson House visit www.hose22.com/special-events-catering-1, email contact@hose22.com or call (585) 621-2200.

Greece Chamber After Hours Networking events are typically held monthly, giving regional business representatives the opportunity to network informally after the business day begins. This and Chamber First Friday Morning Networking events, typically held on the first Friday morning of each month, are very popular with Chamber members. For more information on First Friday networking events or any Greece Chamber events, visit www.GreeceChamber. org or call (585) 227-7272.

Provided Information and Photo

Rotary Club of Greece Golf Tournament

The Rino Pappano Memorial Monday, July 29, 2024 • Ridgemont Country Club Proceeds benefit The Greece Little League’s Challenger Division and The Greece Rotary Foundation.

The Greece Little League Challenger Program is designed to offer children with special needs the opportunity to enjoy the full benefits of Little League participation. The Challenger Division is proven to provide therapeutic and socialization benefits of sports participation and strengthening of the child’s self esteem.

For sponsorship and registration information visit www.greecerotary.org

Provided Information

Erie Canalway Photo Contest – Call for Entries

Deadline for Submission: August 30, 2024

As the NYS Canal System opens for the season, the Erie Canalway National Heritage Corridor is calling for entries for its annual Erie Canalway Photo Contest. Amateur and professional photographers are invited to submit up to three images that capture the canals’ beauty, vibrancy, and character. Winning photos will be featured in the 2025 Bicentennial Erie Canalway Calendar.

Entries must be postmarked by August 30, 2024.

Images will be judged in four contest categories: On the Water, Along the Trail, Canal Celebrations & Communities, and Classic Canal. Judges will select first, second, and third place winning images in each category, as well as 12 honorable mentions.

Submitted images must be horizontal format and taken within the Erie Canalway National Heritage Corridor, which spans 524 miles across the full expanse of upstate New York. It encompasses the Erie, Cayuga-Seneca, Oswego, and Champlain canals and their historic alignments, as well as more than 230 canal communities.

Greece 4-year-old unites neighborhood

by Barbara Burke

According to the Ridge Road Fire District’s press release, “On May 2, 2024, at approximately 8:40 AM, the Ridge Road Fire District responded to a Berkshire Drive house fire, with a person on the roof. Units were dispatched promptly and arrived at the scene in less than four minutes, encountering heavy fire conditions upon arrival. Due to the heavy fire, the homeowner had to evacuate from a second story window onto a porch roof. Firefighters worked quickly to extinguish the fire. Unfortunately, a beloved family pet perished due to the intensity of the fire and smoke. The homeowner received care at an area hospital for smoke inhalation. The cause of the fire is currently under investigation by the Monroe County Fire Bureau. The American Red Cross is providing assistance to the homeowners.”

An engaged couple, Joel Bailey and Rachel Serbicki, lived there with their dog, Bax. Chad, Lea and their 4-year-old daughter Stella Benedict live on Berkshire Drive, diagonal from Joel and Rachel’s house. Lea Benedict said, “The morning of the fire we heard sirens. Many times vehicles use Berkshire Drive as a cut through, but when we looked out the window, across the street, we saw Joel and Rachel’s house engulfed in flames. There was so much emotion in the neighborhood, everyone was crying, Stella was struggling with what she saw happening during the fire, she just couldn’t process what was going on.”

Stella was especially close with Rachel. Lea said, “Rachel is Stella’s person, she just loves her. Joel and Rachel walked their dog Bax at least three times a day. Every time Stella saw them

outside, she excitedly ran to the door and greeted them. After the fire Stella would ask everyday when Rachel and Joel were coming back home. I explained that they will need to fix their house first, and that takes time and money. She even asked if they could live with us. She was having a hard time sleeping, and was very troubled by the fire, and not seeing Rachel everyday.”

Stella said she wanted to help Rachel and Joel come home faster, and wanted to have a lemonade stand like the one she saw at a garage sale. A lemonade sale was organized and held on May 22nd. Neighbors, friends, family members, and the fire department were all invited. Stella even invited her teachers to come out and support Joel and Rachel in their rebuilding effort, which they did.

The lemonade sale was a success, raising over $500. The neighborhood kids all helped out by spreading the word, and flagging down customers by shaking pom-poms and ringing bells. “It was such an all-American scene. People happy and sharing and making donations to help out a neighbor in need. The kids were bringing their own money for lemonade, and to just make a donation to the cause,” Lea said. “The fire department sent two trucks, eight firemen and one firewoman. They brought fire hats, coloring books and took pictures with the kids. They really helped the kids to process what happened and how important it is to help out neighbors, and to practice fire safety. They really continued on page 15

continued from page 14

went above and beyond the call of duty. Everyone from the Fire Department was so kind, and generous. We really want to thank them for what they did to save as much as they could of Rachel and Joel’s house, and then come back to help the whole neighborhood recover and heal from a traumatic experience.”

In their statement the Ridge Road Fire District said, “The homeowner was alerted of the fire by their working smoke detectors. This incident reminds us of the importance of working smoke detectors which serve as critical early warning systems in the event of a fire. Residents are encouraged to reach out to the American Red Cross for assistance in obtaining working smoke detectors. For more information on smoke detectors or if you are

in need of one, please contact the Red Cross.” Red Cross website soundthealarm.org/wny

Joel and Rachel stop by their Berkshire neighborhood a couple of times a week to walk, and talk to neighbors. Over Mother’s Day weekend, Mr. and Mrs. Joel and Rachel Bailey were married, they wanted to bring something positive into their lives. They are rebuilding their Berkshire Drive home, and plan to adopt a rescue dog. Joel’s sister started a Go Fund Me page on Facebook to help with their rebuild efforts. For a link to the Go Fund Me page email Lea at leacory35@gmail.com

For more photots visit www.westsidenewsny.com

Cover Photo: Firemen l-r: Josh Hueber, Kevin Roethel, Shawn Wilder, Jake Lissow and Brian Gebo from Ridge Road Fire Station, meet the Berkshire Drive neighborhood children.

Greece Community Early Learning Center Ribbon Cutting and Open House

On Thursday, May 9, 2024, a Ribbon Cutting Ceremony and Open House were held at the Greece Community Early Learning Center (ELC), 1010 English Road, Greece.

The ELC is unique in that it houses the majority of the GCSD pre-kindergarten classrooms, and was conceptualized and physically redesigned to inspire curiosity in the youngest learners.

During the ceremony the new playzone was dedicated.

The event was open to the community, and attendees toured the school to see the playzone, as well as the new playground, sensory spaces, parent center and updated learning spaces.

The school’s mascot, Westie that Whale, was on hand and arranged a scavenger hunt to help visitors see some of what sets the ELC apart.

For more information on the Greece Community Early Learning Center visit www.greececsd.org/ELC

Provided Information and Photos

Summer Book Sale

The Friends of the Greece Public Library are sponsoring their Summer Book Sale on Saturday, June 22, 2024, from 9AM to 3PM.

Sale will be held at the Buckman’s Plaza, Lower Level, 2590 West Ridge Road.

Book selections include children’s books, non-fiction, fiction, mystery, adventure and romance. Please bring your own bag. Masking is optional.

Provided Information

Get out & grow!

Integrated weed management

by Kristina Gabalski

You may be familiar with Integrated Pest Management, an environmentally sensitive approach to managing pests, especially concerning commercially grown crops, but there is also an integrated approach to managing weeds. Washington State University defines an integrated approach to weed management as utilizing a combination of cultural, physical, biological, and chemical methods to provide the best possible weed management in each situation. Integrated weed management is more environmentally sound, Washington State University notes, and more effective than complete reliance on chemical management – utilizing only herbicides. Taking an integrated approach to weed management in your garden can increase the effectiveness of your efforts and reduce the expense associated with herbicide use.

The most important part of the process is identifying what weed species you have growing in your garden. Positive ID of weeds helps you understand their weaknesses and leads to quick and effective management. There are many references available to help with weed identification, including books and educational resources on the internet. Your county Cornell Cooperative Extension office can also assist. When you know the common and scientific names of weeds, you can answer important questions such as if the plant has an annual, biennial, or perennial life cycle; if it spreads aggressively; and which management methods are most effective for its species. Washington State University says it is important to be realistic when managing weeds. You will not be able to eradicate all of them. The goal, in fact, is not 100 percent control, but to reduce weeds to an acceptable level. Each gardener must set their own threshold: it might be the number of weeds affecting your vegetable harvest or what you can aesthetically tolerate in flower beds.

Here are some non-chemical methods WSU recommends for managing weeds: Weed prevention is one measure. Weeds can be introduced by topsoil, compost, via-seed contaminated clothing or equipment. If possible, try to prevent weeds from being established in the landscape. Avoid bringing soil into your landscape which might be contaminated with weed seeds or plant parts.

The next one is tough, but probably the best all-round way to manage weeds – physical management – including hand weeding, hoeing, cultivating, and mulching. You must be diligent, particularly

with perennial weeds like Canada thistle, pigweed, and crabgrass. The root systems of these plants must be starved by frequent pulling, hoeing, or cultivation.

Annual and biennial weed plants such as common ragweed and purple dead nettle (annuals) and burdock (biennial) can be managed by hand-weeding. Again, for perennials, hand weeding must be done frequently to be effective. Hoeing can help manage annual broadleaf weeds and biennial plants in their first season. Hoeing may not be as effective on grasses where the growing point is below the soil line. For perennials, hoe the area frequently.

Cultural weed management includes drip irrigation to minimize water availability to weeds; maintaining healthy plantings to compete more easily with weed species; timing plantings carefully; and interplanting slow-growing vegetables with fast growing types to minimize open areas where weeds thrive.

Additionally, there are biological weed management strategies, but these are not as applicable to homeowners. Biocontrol relies on the action of one or more natural enemies of weed species, such as disease or insects. In places such as pastures, roadsides, and woodlands, Washington State University says, biocontrol is more viable. Finally, chemical weed management, or the use of herbicides, is the least-preferred management option because of the expense and potential for using them contrary to label directions. If you do resort to herbicides, use only as indicated on the label.

Canada thistle with green narrow toothed leaves - is a perennial invasive weed that needs to be physically removed either by hand weeding or hoeing repeatedly until the root system is starved. Purple dead nettle – the yellowish plant growing beneath the Canada thistle – is an annual weed and can typically be removed by a single hand weeding each season. Knowing your weeds and their growing habits can help you manage them effectively. Photo by Kristina

Gabalski

National Musical Act to perform at the Old Fashioned 4th of July Celebration

The Town of Greece announced that Jefferson Starship will be playing as the featured performer at their Annual 4th of July Celebration. They will take the stage at 8:00 PM and play until our night skies darken and we welcome the best fireworks in the area, “Cause Nothings Going to Stop us Now,” as we light up the night sky to the delight of the thousands of visitors to our campus. Jefferson Starship is one of the most successful arena rock groups of the 1970s and 80s, earning 3 platinum and 8 gold records, as well as numerous Top 40 singles.

Opening act will be Country Recording Artist JB Aaron. JB Aaron was born and raised in Niagara Falls, NY but is now based out of Nashville, TN. He has shared the stage with,

or has opened shows for, various artists over the years including Tim McGraw, Miranda Lambert, Chris Young and Kid Rock.

Full Schedule of Events:

6:30 AM - 5K Freedom Run Registration

7:00 AM - 5K Race Begins

8:00 AM - Super Hero Sprint Check-In

8:15 AM - Super Hero Sprint Begins

4:00 PM - Food Trucks Open and Family Activities Begin

6:30 PM - JB Aaron performs

8:00 PM - Our featured performer “Jefferson Starship” will take the stage

9:45 PM (approximately) – Fire Works Display Provided Information