The Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) has five locations listed where Ice Fishing is permitted in Greece.
Braddock Bay - Elevation 248 feet, covers 327 acres with 7.4 miles of shoreline.
Cranberry Pond - Elevation 248 feet, covers 221.6 acres with 2.5 miles of shoreline.
Long Pond - Elevation 248 feet, covers 441.9 acres with 3.8 miles of shoreline.
Buck Pond - Elevation 248 feet, covers 174.1 acres with 3 miles of shoreline.
Round Pond - located off Edgemere Drive in Greece.
Fish species, at all locations, include Yellow Perch, Sunfish, Rock Bass and Northern Pike.
Like open water angling, fishing through the ice requires skill and knowledge. But anyone can ice fish successfully if they do their homework. Learning about the water to be fished, the equipment and its capabilities, wearing proper clothing and taking safety precautions are all part of a successful, enjoyable winter ice fishing experience.
For more information on Ice Fishing regulations, safety, what to wear, methods, lures, bait, sleds and shelters go to https:// dec.ny.gov/things-to-do/freshwater-fishing/learn-to-fish/tipsskills/how-to-ice-fish.
Information from New York State DEC website
COVER PHOTOS: The Jolly family of Hamlin, Holley, Gates-Chili and Rochester ice fishing on Braddock’s Bay for Pike. Shelters on Braddock’s Bay. Photos by Karen Fien Ironwood Tavern at Deerfield 100 Craig Hill Dr. • Brockport, NY 14420
Tavern ROC | Brockport, NY
585-392-3443
GCC’s annual fashion show brings art to life on the runway
Genesee Community College’s Fashion Business Program has unveiled the theme for its highly anticipated 44th Annual Fashion Show: “Masterpiece Unfolding.” The show will take place on Saturday, May 3, 2025 at 5 p.m. in the Richard C. Call Arena, promising an unforgettable evening where fashion and fine art converge.
Throughout history, art has been a driving force of inspiration, shaping culture, design, and personal expression. “Masterpiece Unfolding” will bring these artistic influences to life on the runway, showcasing designs that pay homage to artistic movements throughout history.
“Fashion, like art, tells a story,” said Laura Taylor, Associate Professor of Fashion Business and Merchandising. “This year, our students will translate the essence of legendary artistic styles into wearable masterpieces, celebrating the creative evolution that continues to inspire designers today.”
Attendees can expect an immersive experience where fashion becomes a canvas, and each design serves as a tribute to the art-
ists of the past and present. Through fabric, texture, and design, “Masterpiece Unfolding” will transform the runway into a gallery of living art.
For ticket information and sponsorship opportunities, email fashionshow@genesee.edu or visit gccfashionshow.com. Provided information
Fashion show photo courtesy of GCC.
Register to help “Pick Up the Parks” on April 12
Volunteers must submit registration forms by March 28
Registration forms for the annual “Pick Up the Parks” event are now available on the Monroe County website: monroecounty. gov/parks-pickuptheparks. The clean-up initiative takes place throughout the Monroe County Parks System on April 12 from 9 a.m. to noon.
CCCSD students
Students in Mrs. Brongo’s class at Churchville-Chili Senior High School raised over $1,025.50 this winter crafting and selling holiday Cee Cee decorations. Students crafted 120 decorations this year, working as a team to design, cut, sew and glue the materials together to create the finished product.
Each year, the class chooses an organization to donate the money they raise. Since beginning the tradition in 2005, the class has raised and donated $15,570 for charity.
Volunteers can register to help clean up the parks from the winter accumulation of trash and debris, reduce litter entering local waterways and help get the parks looking great for the spring and summer.
“We’re grateful that every year, hundreds of Monroe County residents come together to volunteer to clean up our parks,” said County Executive Adam Bello. “Community service plays a crucial role in strengthening our neighborhoods, and by volunteering, you’re not only improving the environment but also fostering a sense of unity and pride. If you’re looking for a meaningful way to give back, I encourage you to join with your friends, family or community organization for a rewarding day that will help prepare our parks for the warmer months ahead.”
Specific jobs include: picking up trash/litter and/or loading up trucks to take trash off-site; raking/picking up debris (leaves, sticks, and rocks); additional duties, such as sweeping shelters, lodges and hard surfaces, and mulching and weeding may be available at some locations
Volunteers can sign up to help clean any one of Monroe County’s 22 parks. This is a rain or shine event unless extreme weather is in the forecast.
To register a group, go to monroecounty.gov/parks-pickuptheparks. Registration forms must be submitted by email to mcparks@ monroecounty.gov by March 28.
Provided information
Students presented at check to the CURE Childhood Cancer Association.
This year the class chose CURE Childhood Cancer Association as the recipient. A representative from CURE recently visited the class to explain how the organization helps families in the Rochester area. During the visit, students presented CURE with the check donation, along with supplies they purchased from CURE’s wish list.
This presentation was special for the class, as one student’s family has benefited directly from the organization’s outreach efforts. Before the class presented CURE with the donation, the student took a moment to personally thank the CURE representative and asked for a hug because of how much it meant to them.
You can learn more about CURE Childhood Cancer Association by visiting https://www.curekidscancer.com. Provided information and photo
CES raises over $22K for Kids Heart Challenge
In February, Churchville Elementary School stu dents helped support the American Heart Associ ation’s Kids Heart Challenge. Students around the country participate in the Kids Heart Challenge to learn about the importance of heart health, exer cise and giving back to others. During the event, CES students raised funds to help kids with special hearts, inspired by the school’s very own heart hero Griffin.
This year, 197 students participated in the chal lenge, raising $22,345.97. Top fundraisers were recognized during a celebratory assembly, and the students who raised the most money were able to take on the titles of “PE teacher for the day,” “As sistant Principal for the day,” and “Principal for the day.”
At the end of the assembly, to celebrate their ac complishment, a few lucky students had the chance to pie CES physical education teachers, classroom teachers, Assistant Principal Kim Giancursio and Principal Kate Daly in the face.
Provided information and photos
Join the Empire State Ride to end cancer
You have the power to change the future of cancer care from the seat of your bike.
Empire State Ride (ESR) is a seven-day cycling fundraising event that takes riders across the state of New York – beginning in New York City and finishing in Niagara Falls. This 500+ mile adventure raises funds for critical cancer research and clinical trials at the world’s first cancer center dedicated to research, Roswell Park
Comprehensive Cancer Center.
Riders experience:
•No-hassle tent camping with a tent, chair, air mattress, clean towels and daily delivery of luggage to camp each day
•Catered breakfast and dinner
•Nightly mission-based programs
•A once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to see New York State in a whole new way while raising funds that will make a generational impact on cancer as we know it.
“We all finish together. We ride together. We look out for each other,” said Steve Mars, ESR road warrior. “I signed up for this as a way to honor my mother and others impacted by cancer, and I thought it would be a one-off. Then I went on the ride, and I real-
ized what an incredible life-changing experience it is.”
The 2025 Empire State Ride takes place from July 26 through August 2. Learn more about the ride and sign up to participate at https://empirestateride.com.
Provided information and photo
Some lucky students had the chance to pie their teachers in the face.
The top three fundraising students recognized at an assembly.
w/Mozzarella, 14 Chicken Tenders or 12 Mozz. Sticks or 10 Wings
w/Mozzarella, 14 Chicken Tenders or 12 Mozz. Sticks or 10 Wings
w/Mozzarella, 28 Chicken Tenders or
Homesteads for Hope takes center stage at Inaugural Care Farming Conference
Homesteads for Hope proudly participated in the Inaugural Care Farming Conference at the University of Massachusetts in January. The event brought together over 250 attendees from 26 states to explore how care farming is shaping the future of inclusive agriculture, vocational training, and social impact. Representatives from every department of the organization attended,
movement. The Care Farming Network’s mission – to establish a care farm serving the underserved in every county across the nation – aligns directly with Homesteads for Hope’s commitment to creating opportunities through hands-on learning, meaningful work, and sustainable agriculture. The organization was honored to represent Monroe County on a national stage.
Hope takes the stage
Founder & CEO Jenny Brongo and Farm Manager Chris Krivanek were honored to be featured speakers, leading discussions on:
•Exploring Community Care Farm Models: Structures, Opportunities, and Challenges
•Building Successful Partnerships & Community Engagement
•Lessons Learned: What I Wish I Knew Before Starting a Care
•Preventing Burnout in Care Farming: Balancing Mission and Their insights resonated with attendees, highlighting Homesteads for Hope’s sustainable, community-driven approach to care farming and inclusive workforce development.
Mission moment: Celebrating Steven
A highlight of the conference was the participation of Steven Voelkl, a former program apprentice and dedicated Homesteads
on page 10
Steven Voelkl (left) presenting on a National Panel of Care Farmers.
Steven Voelkl getting ready to present.
Team members taking part in a pre-conference tour of Prospect Meadow Farm, a fellow care farm, to learn about their operations. continued
continued from page 9
for Hope employee since 2021. Voelkl confidently engaged with attendees, proudly shared his journey through printed photos, and took the stage alongside fellow care farmers. He served on a panel of Care Farmers from across the U.S., sharing how his employment at Homesteads for Hope has changed his life and how he takes pride in coordinating the CSA program at the farm.
As Voelkl left campus wearing a red UMass hat, the moment symbolized his success, independence, and the transformative impact of care farming. Stories like his exemplify the mission of Homesteads for Hope – empowering individuals to find purpose and opportunity in an inclusive farm community. “It was incredible to see Steve’s confidence and pride on stage and throughout the entire conference. Nearly everyone I spoke with had already heard about our organization – thanks to Steve, who was truly the networking king,” said Nora Venezky, Development Director at Homesteads for Hope.
Seed starting Get out & grow!
by Kristina Gabalski
Looking ahead
As a founding care farm in the Care Farming Network, Homesteads for Hope continues to help shape the future of the care farming movement. The farm received widespread recognition for its ability to cultivate community-driven support and sustainable programs. Unlike many care farms, Homesteads for Hope grows all its own produce, reinforcing the strength of its CSA Food Share Program.
Additionally, the organization’s long-term vision to eventually offer housing for individuals with disabilities further sets it apart, ensuring that people not only have opportunities for employment and engagement but also the ability to live, learn, and grow in a fully inclusive farm community.
Homesteads for Hope looks forward to continuing its leadership in this field.
For more information on care farming and the Care Farming Network, visit: https://carefarmingnetwork.org.
To learn more about Homesteads for Hope, visit: https://www. homesteadsforhope.org/.
Provided information and photo
by Kristina Gabalski
The weather has been wintery for the past several weeks, but spring is on the horizon, and it is time to start purchasing seeds for this year’s garden. Seeds like corn and beans do better sown directly into the soil late in spring when all danger of frost is past, but starting some varieties of vegetables and flowers inside well in advance of transplanting has advantages.
The University of Illinois says germination rates for seeds started inside are better because you can provide ideal conditions. There is less competition from other plants – including weeds – and fewer insect and disease problems. Additionally, starting plants from seeds gives you a much greater choice in varieties than you will find at garden centers as transplants. There are hundreds of varieties of tomatoes, for example, available by seed compared to what is available as a transplant.
Starting seeds is not difficult, and you can plan to try just a few varieties or many. You can experiment with plants that you have never grown. To start seeds indoors, you need seed, a container, growing media, water, and light.
Choose a seed starting mix, not garden soil for your growing media. Garden soil is heavy and may contain weed seeds or even diseases. Seed starting mix is sterile and formulated with milled peat moss, perlite, coconut coir, and vermiculite. This light-weight and fine textured mix is perfect for starting seeds.
Containers can be egg cartons, eggshells, peat pots, plastic pots, or cell flats that you purchase at the store. Some cell flats are sold with dry pellets of seed starting mix that fit perfectly in the cells. Illinois Extension says that whatever container you choose, make sure there is a way for excess moisture to drain.
Lighting is important and fluorescent growing lights are a great option, but Illinois Extension says regular fluorescent bulbs, a desk lamp, or a windowsill (that is not drafty) will work.
Check your seed packets for planting information, such as when to start seeds inside for transplanting in the garden and how deeply the seed should be planted.
You will need to moisten your seed starting media before plant-
ing. Add enough water so that the medium will hold its shape when you pick up a handful. It should not be dripping wet. Fill your container with the moistened medium and make sure it is settled in the container with no air pockets.
Place two or three seeds in an indentation in the media at the depth recommended on the seed packet. Gently press the media down so that good contact is made between it and the seeds. Remember to follow the seed packet guidelines–some seeds need light to germinate. I always place those gently on top of the seed starting medium and press them down a bit to make contact with the mix.
Gently mist the containers with water after the seeds are planted and cover the container with plastic to keep the seeds warm and moist. Continue to mist the containers by lifting back the plastic until the seeds germinate. At that time, plastic covers can be removed. Keep the seedlings moist until they are planted outside later in the spring.
Remember, warmth is important, so you may need to use a seed starting mat. Light is also important. If you are lighting seedlings from above, Illinois Extension says to keep the lights three inches above the tallest plant. Keep them lighted for 12 to 16 hours each day. Timers are handy for switching lights on and off at the proper time. If seedlings need thinning, snip some off at the soil line with scissors.
Seeds and seed starting supplies are now readily available. Starting seed inside can be a great way to start your growing season. Photo by Kristina Gabalski.
The Gates Historical Society’s March program will be held on Monday, March 17, at 7 p.m. in the Gates Town Hall Annex. The program, “Rochester’s Best-Kept Secret: Unveiling The Mighty Wurlitzer,” will be presented by members of the Rochester Theater Organ Society. This program is free and the facility is handicapped accessible.
Ironwood Tavern celebrates one year of good food, good drinks, and good company in Brockport
Ironwood Tavern, Brockport’s go-to spot for mouthwatering dishes and cozy dining experiences, is celebrating its one-year anniversary. Over the past year, Ironwood has become a beloved destination for friends, families, and those in the local golf community, creating a space where memorable meals meet warm hospitality.
Since opening its doors, Ironwood Tavern has welcomed thousands of guests, offering a menu that showcases everything from delicious shareables to comfort food favorites. With highlights like the fan-favorite Delmonico Ribeye, hearty Chicken Prosciutto, Friday Night Fish Fries, and decadent Creamy Mac & Cheese with Pulled Pork, there’s been something for everyone to enjoy.
“It’s been an incredible year of serving our community,” said Owner, Paul Moriarty. “From day one, our mission was to create a space where people could relax, connect, and enjoy great food. We’re so grateful to our guests and staff for making this year unforgettable.”
Ironwood’s cozy ambiance, featuring its iconic four-sided fireplace and patio fire pits, creates the
perfect backdrop for anything from a quick drink after a round of golf to a casual night out for dinner.
“We’re not just celebrating a year of operations,” Moriarty added, “we’re celebrating the connections we’ve made and the memories created here. We can’t wait to see what the next year brings!”
Ironwood Tavern invites everyone to join in the anniversary festivities and experience the flavors and hospitality that have made it a standout destination. Visit Ironwood Tavern at 100 Craig Hill Drive, Brockport, call 585-3923443, or visit ironwoodroc.com.
Provided information and photos
Jason “J-Mac” McElwain bobbleheads unveiled to celebrate anniversary of viral game
The National Bobblehead Hall of Fame and Museum has unveiled two limited-edition bobbleheads of Jason “J-Mac” McElwain, who attracted international media attention for his performance in a Senior Night basketball game for Greece Athena High School in 2006. The bobbleheads are being released in conjunction with the anniversary of the game, which was played on February 15. The special edition bobbleheads are being produced by the National Bobblehead Hall of Fame and Museum and developed in partnership with Jason McElwain.
Standing on a circular basketball court base bearing his name, the first Jason McElwain bobblehead is in a shooting pose. He is wearing a white basketball uniform with “J-Mac” across the front along with a white headband and black shoes. The second bobblehead, which is also on a circular basketball court base bearing his name, has a smiling “J-Mac” being carried on the shoulders of two smiling Athena fans while giving the No. 1 signal.
final shot – a deep three-pointer from the right wing – right before the final buzzer sounded, the Athena student section stormed the court to celebrate their unlikely hero.
“J-Mac” ended up receiving an ESPY Award in the “Best Sports Moment” category, beating out Kobe Bryant’s 81-point game. He met President George W. Bush, numerous sports celebrities, and appeared on various talk shows, including The Oprah Winfrey Show , Larry King Live, Good Morning America and Today McElwain co-wrote a book with Daniel Paisner titled The Game of My Life. Currently, the 36year-old McElwain travels across the country to help raise funds for autism research and make media appearances as a public speaker. He is also an accomplished marathon runner. On September 23, 2012, he completed the MVP Health Care Rochester Marathon in 15th place in 3 hours, 1 minute, 41 seconds, a time that qualified him for the Boston Marathon. In 2014, he completed the Boston Marathon in 2:57:05.
The bobbleheads, which will be individually numbered to 2,006, are available exclusively through the National Bobblehead Hall of Fame and Museum’s Online Store (https://store.bobbleheadhall. com/products/jmac). The bobbleheads are $30 for the bobblehead featuring McElwain shooting and $40 for the celebration bobblehead or $65 for the set of two. There is a flat-rate shipping charge of $8 per order, and the bobbleheads are expected to ship in July.
Diagnosed with autism at two years old, McElwain was the student manager for the basketball team at Greece Athena High School. On February 15, 2006, coach Jim Johnson gave McElwain the opportunity to suit up for the Senior Night game against Spencerport. With the Trojans holding a comfortable lead, McElwain, wearing No. 52, entered the game with 4 minutes, 19 seconds remaining. After missing his first two shots, McElwain got “hot as a pistol.” He made six three-pointers and seven total baskets for a game-high 20 points much to the delight of the large crowd. After burying his
“We’re excited to unveil these bobbleheads of Jason McElwain celebrating his incredible and inspirational performance,” National Bobblehead Hall of Fame and Museum co-founder and CEO Phil Sklar said. “What ‘J-Mac’ was able to accomplish inspired countless people not only in his community, but around the world and Jason has been doing an excellent job motivating people ever since. We hope these bobbleheads inspire people to follow their dreams.”
When asked about being honored with the new bobbleheads, Jason said, “First of all, I want to thank my Lord and Savior Jesus Christ for this blessing to have a bobblehead of me all the glory to God. It takes talent to get to the top, but you need work ethic and character and attitude to stay there. John 14:1 ‘Let not your heart be troubled; you believe in God also believe in me.’ If you don’t dream it, you can’t become it. It’s so surreal to have a bobblehead done on myself. I would like to thank God for using me for the last 19 years and four years of being saved by the Lord Jesus Christ.”
Provided information and photo
Girls on the Run seeks volunteer coaches for upcoming season
Girls on the Run of Greater Rochester, a nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering young girls through physical activity, confidence-building, and life skills development, is seeking volunteer coaches for the upcoming season. Beginning the week of March 17, coaches will have the unique opportunity to make a lasting impact on girls in the greater Rochester area, using a research-based curriculum that inspires girls to set goals, unlock their limitless potential, and embrace healthy habits.
Each season, volunteer coaches:
•Lead small teams of 15-20 participants twice a week for 10 weeks.
•Build lasting connections with a community of like-minded volunteers.
•Mentor, support, and celebrate girls as they work toward their goal of completing a 5K.
“Anyone can make a difference as a GOTR coach. No experience or expertise in running is required,” said Kelly Fisher. “If you are passionate about inspiring girls, supporting the next generation,
and creating positive change in your communities, Girls on the Run is the place for you. Coaching a GOTR team is so much more than lap goals and stretches – it’s about helping participants realize their potential, and in the process, you’ll find that you’re inspired by their growth as well.”
All Girls on the Run volunteer coaches receive free, comprehensive training that includes education on how to create welcoming environments, foster connections, and adapt the program for girls with disabilities. Councils provide coaches with the research-based curriculum and other necessary materials they need to lead a successful season. Head and assistant coaches must be at least 18 years old, pass a background check, and commit to attending the weekly practices. Each team is assigned multiple coaches to ensure a safe, positive experience for both the girls and the volunteers.
The deadline to sign up as a volunteer coach for the spring season is March 6. Interested coaches can learn more at https://www. pinwheel.us/r/ZlqkMsz.
Provided information
North Chili’s Ben Hinds makes Section V history with state meet qualification
Ben Hinds, a standout swimmer from North Chili and a junior at McQuaid Jesuit, has officially made Section V history. During a meet at Penfield High School on January 23, Ben secured his final state qualification in the 500-yard freestyle, making him the first junior – or younger – in Section V history to qualify for every individual event at the New York State Public High School Athletic Association (NYSPHSAA) Meet.
Ben delivered an incredible performance, completing the 500-yard freestyle in 4:48.42, besting his USA Swimming time
Ben Hinds has qualified for states in every individual swimming event.
from two than the showcasing ent extraordinary has fore Stetzer completed Ben and one region.
In accomplishments, year-round with the Webster BlueFins USA Swimming team, where he has developed the endurance, discipline, and skills that have propelled him to the top of his sport. He has already qualified in every other individual event and participated in all three relay teams. His 400 Freestyle Relay team was ranked first in New York State at the time of this writing.
Provided information and photo
Camp Haccamo summer 2025 registration is now open
A summer of transformation awaits children and adults with special needs as Camp Haccamo opens registration for its 69th season. Camp Haccamo will offer two exciting sessions of overnight camp.
•Session 1 for ages 7 to 18: July 28 to August 1
•Session 2 for ages 19 to 30: August 4 to August 8
Camp Haccamo provides an enriching camping experience for children and adults with diverse special needs. They offer a supportive and inclusive environment where campers can build confidence, develop new skills, and create lasting memories.
Here’s what makes Camp Haccamo so special:
•Exceptional care: 24/7 nursing care ensures the safety and wellbeing of every camper.
•Dedicated staff: A caring and experienced counselor-to-camper ratio of one counselor per two campers allows for individualized attention and support.
•Overnight camping experience: Children and adults with a wide range of special needs can participate in traditional summer camp activities.
•Respite for families: Families receive valuable respite, knowing their loved ones are in a safe and nurturing environment.
•Exciting activities: Campers will enjoy a wide range of activities including ziplining, arts and crafts, water sports, talent shows, a prom, a carnival night, and of course the iconic Haccamo Railroad.
“Camp Haccamo provides a vital service,” says Executive Director Dolly Kujawa. “We create a space where individuals can thrive, build friendships, and experience the joy of a real summer camp.”
“It’s a magical place,” shares Director Logan hart. “The campers and staff create truly special munity, and credible to the growth that happens each summer.”
“Camp Haccamo gave me confidence and changed life,” says Counselor Evan Dorsey. former camper, it’s so meaningful and rewarding for me to help other kids have that same experience.”
Do you have a passion to serve others? Want to help change lives? Apply to be a paid camp counselor by visiting https:// www.camphaccamo.org or by using this direct link https://bit. ly/4goZoOJ.
Camp Haccamo is supported by 12 dedicated Rotary Clubs: Brighton, Fairport, Gates Chili, Hilton, Honeoye Falls-Mendon, Irondequoit, E-Club, Penfield, Pittsford, Rush Henrietta, Spencerport, and Webster. Learn more at https://www.camphaccamo.org, or on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/haccamo. Provided information and photo
Ben Hinds
Thomas is fourth history
Earlier this month, the Section V Class A Diving Championship took place at the Churchville-Chili Natatorium. Churchville-Chili junior Kyler Thomas won this year’s title, posting a total score of 516.30 points to win the meet by 13.5 points. Thomas’ win puts him in good company alongside the three other Churchville-Chili diving champions in program history.
Churchville-Chili’s very first Diving Champion was 2003 graduate Scott Horsington. Scott held both the six dive (265.05) and 11 dive (457.35) school records, won the sectional championship title in 2001 and 2002, and was a two-time state finalist. As a senior, he was named team MVP. After gradu ation, Horsington competed for SUNY Fredonia, winning the SUNYAC conference title three times and becoming a three-time All-American. Scott cur rently teaches high school band at Greece Odyssey and is the Head Diving Coach for SUNY Brockport, where he was named SUNYAC Diving Coach of the Year in 2018 and 2024. Scott was inducted into the Churchville-Chili Athletic Hall of Fame in 2024.
It would be 16 years before Churchville would take home the div ing title again. Jake Calus, who graduated in 2021, was a sophomore at the time, winning the 2018 title while the new Churchville-Chili pool was under construction. Jake went on to break both the six dive (343.05) and 11 dive (586.25) school records, five area pool records, made three state meet appearances, was named MVP three times, earned the Churchville Athletic Department Career Athlete Award, and was named All-American twice. To date, Calus is the only All-American in Churchville-Chili Swimming & Diving history. After high school, Jake went on to dive at SUNY Geneseo, where he was named All-American after a top-eight finish at the national competition. Calus is currently in his senior year at Gen eseo and plans to pursue a career in marine biology.
Churchville’s third sectional champion was 2022 graduate Mer edith Fingler. Fingler joined the diving team as a junior. Having
Scott Horsington
during her time in the program. During her senior year, Fingler performed the hardest dive in Section V and landed as the secondhighest-scoring diver in Churchville girls diving history for both six dives (268.70) and 11 dives (422.10). Her 2022 sectional win marked the first individual win in any event for Churchville-Chili girls in more than 20 years, earning her the team’s MVP award. Fingler is currently a junior at the University of Scranton studying Kinesiology.
The Saints’ most recent champion is junior Kyler Thomas, who won the title on February 1, 2025. With one year left in his high school career, Thomas has already built the foundation of a lasting legacy in the district. To date, Kyler has qualified for sectionals four times and finished second twice. He made state finals in 2024 finishing 14th, and is a two-time MVP. Kyler won the 2025 CC Diving Classic, Webster Yeti Classic, Monroe County Diving Championship, and Section V Class A Diving Championship this season. He currently holds two area pool records and is the second-highestscoring diver in district history for both six dives (308.85) and 11 dives (516.30). This March, Thomas will compete in the 2025 NYS Diving Competition hosted at Ithaca College.
Provided information and photos
Jake Calus
Meredith Fingler
Kyler Thomas
It was a clean sweep for the Gates Chili Spartans who won both the Monroe County Girls and Boys Indoor Track & Field Division II championships. They are coached by Patrick Tindal. Photos from @MCPSAC on X.
6/14 CONCERT BUFFALO! George Strait & Chris Stapleton includes ride and tailgate, Dep. Hen. 4pm ..........................
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All include Bodine Monster Tailgate Buffet, Ride Dep. 7:40AM. Family Oriented Fun For All Ages! 2025 Season: Santis, Bucs, Ravens, Bengals, Fish, Jets, Pats 2 HUGE PRIME GAMES: KC Chiefs, Eagles
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$290+
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5480 County Rd. 36, Honeoye, ny 14471 (585) 329-5440 https://bodine-unlimited-tours-inc.business.site
Departs Henrietta. Itineraries mailed 7-10 days prior to departure. Please read and sign company policies prior to booking. See our ad in the Westside News • Hometown Community Directory
