My Hometown May 2023

A Westside News, Inc. Publication

Publisher Keith Ryan

Managing Editor Gary Sajdak

Email: gary.sajdak@westsidenewsny.com

Contributing Writers & Photographers Barbara Burke, Maggie Fitzgibbon, Colleen Onuffer, Tami Raco, John Robortella, Joe Territo

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4 Homestead for Hope Holds Ground Breaking Ceremony

5 Camp Inventions’s Summer STEM Program Coming to Chestnut Ridge School

6 Local Author’s Book Sale Benefits Canal Days

8 Longtime Friends Reminisce Reading New Book

9 RHA Receiving Community Visionary Award

10 Chili First Presbyterian Church Donates to Homestead for Hope

13 Celebrating Earth Day in Churchville/Riga

14 Easter Egg Hunt Held in Churchville/Riga

15 Olympian Jenn Suhr Joins Roberts Wesleyan’s Athletics Team

16 GCV&M Offering New Experiences, Exhibits and Events in 2023

18 All About Lilacs

Vicki Caspersson, Karen Fien, Joanne Michielsen

My Hometown Community Farm

Homesteads breaking

Homesteads for Hope, a nonprofit inclusive community farm for people of all abilities, held a ground breaking ceremony on April 12 to celebrate progress on its Forever Homestead Project. The project involves the renovation of and addition to the nearly 200-year-old estate home to create a more than 6,500 square foot community center. The Forever Homestead will include a large teaching kitchen, multiple classrooms, gathering space, staff offices and a five-bedroom transitions apartment for modernized, farm student housing. The project will allow Homesteads for Hope to expand its programs all year round. Construction began in February and is expected to be completed in September.

Jennyrae Brongo, CEO and Founder of Homesteads for Hope, said she was proud to see the progress on the project that has been part of the plan since the purchase of the 55-acre canalside property in 2016.

“We knew that the Forever Homestead would be the heart of our organization with a central place for us to gather, to enjoy our farm to table teaching kitchen, and to expand our programs with new, fully accessible learning spaces. We are especially excited about the farmers’ residence part of this project because it provides choice for our apprentices who want to work and live here. We are finally putting the HOME in Homesteads,” said Brongo. “The Forever Homestead will have multiple opportunities to provide people with all they need to transition to adulthood when the school bus stops coming. That is exactly why Homesteads for Hope was started. We are here for my brother Chucky and for everyone who has been underestimated and wants a place to belong and feel appreciated.”

Former Senator Joe Robach presented Brongo with the State Senate Certificate of Recognition on behalf of Senator Rob Ortt. “This groundbreaking is not only a celebration for the people who attend programs here. This is a victory for our entire community,” Robach said. “This wouldn’t be happening if it wasn’t for Jenny’s leadership and the backing of all the donors, sponsors, and local

contractors who are investing in this important mission. As a father to an autistic stepson, I know on a personal level how needed Homesteads is. We have a place to go and people to turn to that will make sure good things happen no matter a person’s age or ability level.”

Ogden Town Supervisor Mike Zale spoke about how the farm has grown over the years. “I had the great fortune of meeting of getting to know Jenny’s mom who was one of the original visionaries for all of this.

When Luann passed, Jenny and her team stayed true to her vision, navigated the bumps in the road, and because of the firm foundation, this project has come to fruition. There are 600 families that are served here. 600! That’s incredible,” Zale said.

Jennyrae Brongo, CEO and Founder of Homesteads for Hope.

Homesteads for Hope launched its Pave the Way fundraising

continued on page 5

My Hometown Community Farm

continued from page 4

playgrounds, but have we heard of an accessible farm? We will do it here and create a fully inclusive setting for our greater community. The completion of our current phase will triple our impact and it paves the way to housing here at Homesteads!”

For more information on Homesteads for Hope, including it programs and ways to support its mission, visit homesteadsforhope. org.

Provided information and photos

campaign last spring with a goal of raising $3 million and has successfully raised $1 million so far.

Brongo said, “We still have $2 million to our goal and we are looking to all of you to keep dreaming with us and investing in us, so we can get this very important phase done. We need to be open and accessible year-round. We have heard of accessible

Camp Invention’s summer STEM program coming to Chestnut Ridge Elementary School

Camp Invention®, a nationally recognized, nonprofit summer enrichment program, is coming to Churchville-Chili’s Chestnut Ridge Elementary School the week of July 17 to July 21, 2023.

A program of the National Inventors Hall of Fame®, in partnership with the United States Patent and Trademark Office, Camp Invention challenges children in grades K-6 to tap into their natural curiosity and use their creativity to solve problems. Through hands-on activities, Camp Invention promotes STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) learning; builds confidence, leadership, perseverance and resourcefulness; and encourages entrepreneurship - all in a fun and engaging environment.

Each year, the program features a new curriculum inspired by some of the nation’s most world-changing inventors – the National Inventors Hall of Fame Inductees. This year’s Wonder program encourages children to be confident in their ideas and explore their innovativeness though hands-on activities including:

•Catching Air™ – Taking a confidence-building ride through physics, engineering and art, children design and build their own skate park.

•Invention Celebration™ – Campers take on the role of event planners as they throw a party celebrating creativity and innovation.

•MimicBot™ – Children show their unique style when they transform a

robot that mimics sounds into a one-of-a-kind animatronic stuffie.

•Pop-Up Venture™ – Big ideas come to life as campers design their own mini pop-up business.

“Both of my kids loved Camp Invention! They loved having the opportunity to create, innovate and iterate what they had learned,” said the parent of 2022 Camp Invention campers. “They were intensely proud to tell of their work each day and to showcase their projects at the end of the week.”

All local Camp Invention programs are facilitated and taught by qualified educators who reside and teach in the community. Camp Invention serves 118,000 students every year and partners with more than 2,200 schools and districts across the nation. For more information or to register, visit invent.org/camp.

Former Senator Joe Robach presents Jennyrae Brongo Senate Certificate of Recognition on behalf of Senator Rob Ortt.

Hardhat tours of the construction site were part of the day’s activities.

Local author’s book sales to benefit Spencerport Canal Days

Lifelong Spencerport resident, Jay Diedreck, is promoting his fifth fund raiser. This current fundraiser will benefit Spencerport Canal Days which will be held on July 29 and 30, 2023. All sale proceeds will be used to help finance this summer event which includes various forms of entertainment, a vintage car show, the famous Canaligator race, food vendors, a tasting tent, and exhibitors.

All four of Diedreck’s novels have received wonderful reviews and have been sold worldwide. The setting is somewhere along the seaswept coast of Maine in a Victorian village (called Port James), alongside its proud New England lighthouse. His books are filled with adventure, unexpected twists, unforgettable precious characters, as well as family love and fun. His book titles are Klem Watercrest the Lighthouse Keeper, Seaside Journeys of Faith, A Port James Romance, and I Hear My Lighthouse Calling

Each of Diedreck’s novels are available from book sellers in both digital format and book print on demand. The Unique Shop in Spencerport has all four novels available for immediate purchase. The Unique Shop is located at 130 South Union Street, one block south of the canal.

Diedreck says it is a total win to support local small businesses (and a local author), by purchasing uplifting novels that help pay for the cost of Spencerport Canal Days. This current fundraiser will extend through the end of June.

Provided information and photo

My Hometown Sports

On Sunday, March 5, Ogden resident and ChurchvilleChili fifth grade student, Bailey Nordhausen, won the New York State (NYS) United States Bowling Congress (USBC) annual Pepsi Youth Bowling Tournament for a third consecutive year. Rolling a 126, 141 and 131 for a 398 series, the 120 average bowler beat out nine other girls in the U10 division. This is the same division that she won in 2022 with a 446 series. And if that weren’t enough, she won the same tournament in the U8 division in 2021 with a 377 series. Additionally, Bailey took third place in the New York State Bowling Proprietors Association (NYSBPA) Youth Scholarship Tournament on February 26 of this year with a 404 series. Bailey bowls out of ABC Gates Lanes, in Gates, and the tournaments were held at AMF Fairview Lanes in Fairport. Provided information and photos.

Longtime friends reminisce reading new book

by Ron Johnston

Gene Benoit reads as Roger Pimm listens.

“I don’t think he would mind if I mention that he has some vision issues,” Gene says.

Two longtime, retired friends, that’s what Gene and Rog are. The former lives on the east side of Rochester while the latter resides west of the city.

Occasionally, laughter fills the room at Rog’s house on Chili-Riga Road. Riga Center is located in a rural setting just south of the village of Churchville.

Rog, the son of Joe and Lola Pimm, has been at the Riga home for nearly his entire life. He gives a lot of credit to his parents for his upbringing.

“I talk to so many people,” Rog says, “who tell me how terrible their childhood was. We were all blessed the way we were raised.”

Gene is reading the recently-published One-Game Wonder in “installments,” he says. The book is about a record-breaking

Churchville-Chili basketball game and includes tales of the school and community in the 1960s.

“We love it,” Gene says, “a lovingly told, great journey down memory lane.”

Gene pauses.

“I’m really missing our old gang today as a result of reading and talking,” he adds. “Any ears burning?”

Gene and Rog are 1966 graduates of Churchville-Chili Senior High. After receiving their diplomas, Gene continued his education at nearby SUNY Brockport while Rog attended Roberts Wesleyan in North Chili.

Gene went on to marry, raise a family, and teach history to middle-schoolers for 39 years. Rog was a real estate agent for many years and remained an eligible bachelor.

Gene tries to visit Rog as often as possible. “We watch lots of sports together and do the lunch or late breakfast thing,” Gene says.

While Rog lives alone, he never lacks for company. He has his dogs, and he’ll sometimes dine with people like cousin Jerry Spotts, who resides in nearby LeRoy.

Rog also worships at the First Congregational Church of Riga, a short drive and walk from his home.

Not surprisingly, Rog hangs on to Gene’s every word of the book, especially the chapter on Riga Center.

“We always had something to do,” Rog says, “and someone to do it with. It was a gift that we should always appreciate.”

Gene agrees and adds, “Fifty more pages. It’ll be sad to finish it.”

But...wait a minute. Maybe not.

“Why don’t you read it again, Gene,” Rog says.

Ron Johnston is the author of One-Game Wonder and a retired newspaper sports editor/writer.

1966 Churchville-Chili senior photos of Gene Benoit (left) and Roger Pimm (right). Provided photos.

My Hometown Housing RHA receives Community Visionary Award

Chili resident Shawn Burr, Executive Director of the Rochester Housing Authority (RHA), accepted the Community Visionary Award from MRI Software at the 2023 New York State Public Housing Authority Directors Association (NYSPHADA) meeting being held in Verona, NY. MRI awarded the Rochester Housing Authority this honor for consistently sharing user feedback, ideas and suggestions to drive innovations that benefit the community and other Public Housing Agencies.

When presenting the award, MRI cited RHA for providing feedback that has been instrumental in helping them to craft better processes to serve its customers and creating new client services. RHA continuously shares best practices with other agencies to help advance the industry.

Most recently, RHA innovated its communication with residents, applicants, and landlords by implementing a direct texting, calling, and emailing system. Additionally, residents are also now benefitted by being able to easily pay electronically. RHA recently migrated to MRI’s cloud-hosted environment which resulted in the ability to securely conduct business from anywhere with Internet connectivity.

“Rochester Housing Authority is honored to be recognized by MRI,” said Executive Director Shawn Burr. “We are proud of the communication and technology strides we have taken to benefit our communities, and look forward to continuing to enhance our communication, programs, and services into the future.”

Established in 1955 as an independent public corporation by New York State Public Housing Law, the Rochester Housing Authority (RHA) serves more than 27,000 lower-income residents and program participants in a five-county Greater Rochester area including Monroe, Orleans, Livingston, Ontario, and Wayne Counties. Approximately 20% of those reside in the 2,400+ RHA public housing units, while others served receive assistance in the form of voucher or certificate programs that help them afford eligible, private housing

Provided information and photo

From left, MRI’s Matt Grimes presents the award to Executive Director Shawn Burr and IT Director Evhen Tupis.

My Hometown Good Neighbors

Chili First Presbyterian

As part of a “Season of Renewal” outreach project, First Presbyterian Church of Chili has donated a fertilizer spreader and seeder to Homesteads for Hope, which located on Manitou Road. The spreader was delivered on March 27 so that it could be used immediately for spring projects on the community farm. Chili First raising funds to cover the cost of the spreader. Farm Manager, Chris Krivanek, was there on delivery day receive the spreader.

First Presbyterian Church of Chili’s Season of Re newal Team chose Homesteads for Hope because is a hidden jewel in our neighborhood. It offers jobs and training for people with all abilities who wish participate in the various activities of farming as well as all kinds of events and activities for the community to enjoy throughout the summer. There is truly some thing for everyone at Homesteads for Hope – a Farm Store, scheduled community events throughout the summer, music and food every Thursday for families to picnic and watch the sunset over the Erie Canal, a barn to rent for private functions, and much more. People can purchase seasonal Social Memberships, Garden Memberships, and CSA Membership. Each one has various “perks.” For more information, visit www. homesteadsforhope.org.

Provided information and photos

All unloaded and ready to go. Shown are (l-r) from Chili First, Nancy Huffman, Sandra McCauley, Jerry Huffman, Andrew Atwater, and Deborah Lamphron; and from Homesteads for Hope, Farm Manager Chris Krivanek, Helen Draper, and Celina Ramos. Not pictured is Gail McArthur from the church.

The spreader arrives with Andrew Atwater, Chili First, ready to unload it. Chris Krivanek, Farm Manager, is seated on the tractor to the right

My Hometown Sports

Churchville-Chili Outstanding Teammate winners have been announced for winter varsity sports. Shown are (l-r): Ryan Johnson, boys swimming & diving; Abigail Lyon, girls indoor track; Peter Szumigala, boys indoor track; James Southcott, ice hockey; Brooke Lindsay, cheerleading; Chase Shepanski, boys basketball; Cael Raines, wrestling; Brooke Collom, girls basketball; and Nickolas Wetzel, bowling. Provided information and photo.

My Hometown Community

Students from Spain Seek Host Families & Lifelong Memories

by Colleen Onuffer

This summer, students from Spain will be traveling to the U.S. to experience authentic American life. Through the organization Friendships Abroad (formally Global Friendships), a chaperone and 15 students – ranging from 13 to 17-years-old will be staying with host families around Rochester’s west side.

“We want families to be themselves because that’s the experience students want to have the most: real, American families doing what they do,” explained local coordinator, Becky Smith. Becky is assisting this specific group in finding host families across Chili, Gates, Brockport, Spencerport and Hilton for the summer.

“Prior to COVID, I saw a posting for an immediate need for a host family for two cousins from France, Albane and Aurelia, whose placement fell through. My husband and I thought it would be a fun experience, so we volunteered,” explained Smith, who is in her second year as a coordinator with the organization. “I enjoyed it so much, I signed up to be a local coordinator!”

Students will be visiting from June 29 to July 27. If families are unable to host a student for the full month, they can split the visit with another family and each host for two weeks. Host families are responsible for providing students with three meals a day, a place to sleep – whether their own room or a shared room with a same sex “sibling” and some transportation. Students come with spending money so they can participate in various activities with their host family.

“Taking vacations or trips out of town are great for students tag along with their hosts, so they can be exposed to more places and experiences,” said Smith.

She also helps plan activities for the students during their time in the U.S., starting with a 24-hour visit to New York City when they first arrive at JFK airport. Throughout the summer, students will get to take a trip to Niagara Falls, attend a Red Wings base ball game and enjoy a day at Six Flags Darien Lake.

“I also try to take students to a local high school. They amazed at the difference in what our schools are like versus their schools in Spain,” she said.

The summer visit is a wonderful opportunity for students and host families, with lifelong impact.

“This is a life changing experience for the students coming

the U.S. and is often a dream they’ve had since being a young child,” explained Smith. “However, it is equally as amazing of an experience for the host family to form a unique bond with someone they would have never crossed paths with otherwise. I look at it as a small way we can literally change the world. You never know what these students will take home with them and share with others – and it could be a part of your life that you shared with them!”

Smith and her family know this from personal experience.

In addition to the two cousins from France, they hosted a young lady from Spain last year named Miriam.

“My children really enjoyed hearing about their cultures and sharing our culture with them. Hearing and learning the language is really cool too,” explained Smith. “Seeing things from another perspective is humbling because we don’t often think about some things as being different because we are so used to them. The relationships can last a lifetime as well. We still speak with our past students. I even know host families who have traveled to Spain and visited former students and their families years later.

Aside from offering to host students, individuals can help share information by posting flyers at their work, church or local business. Smith added, “Any place that offers a unique experience for students is welcome to reach out to me, and I can offer it to any students interested.”

For more information about the program or hosting a student, you can visit the Facebook page Spencerport, NY Friendships Abroad or email Becky at gfstudents2022@gmail.com.

My Hometown Volunteers Celebrating Earth

by David Thomas Recreation Supervisor Town of Riga

On Saturday, April 22, Riga Recreation marked its 15th year of celebrating Earth Day by picking up and beautifying Churchville Park. In partnership with Monroe County Parks, the Village of Churchville, the Monroe County Sheriff’s Department, and the Churchville LEO Club, three barrels of pharmaceutical waste were collected, trash was picked up, and 100 seedlings were planted by 35 residents and non-residents. A true credit to our caring community!

Chili Fire Department moves to new firehouse

The morning of April 22, members of the Chili Fire Department relocated their gear and apparatus into the department’s new firehouse, located at 3225 Chili Avenue. A post made by the CFD on Twitter read, “We are so excited to continue serving our community from this new facility!” Photo from @ChiliFireDept on Twitter.

Riga Recreation Supervisor Dave Thomas instructs a group of volunteers preparing to clean up Churchville Park as part of the Pick Up the Parks event. Workers gathered at the Church Lodge then spread through the park, joining in clean-up, tree planting and seeding. Provided photo.

Monroe County’s ecopark mobile trailer was stationed at Churchville Park during the event to provide an easy means to drop off old or unused pharmaceuticals. Provided photo.

My Hometown Service Clubs

Easter Egg Hunt held in Churchville/Riga

Lion District Governor Judy MacKnight was the honored guest at the March 14 dinner meeting of the Churchville Lions Club. Lion Judy shared information about Lions International President Brian Sheehan and his theme “Together We Can.” After some District updates she spoke about her project for this year focusing on aiding Foodlink and fighting hunger. A 25 Years of Service chevron pin was presented to club Treasurer, Lion Randy Kehl. Other chevron pins were presented in absentia to Lions Jack Linney (10 years), Sheila Fodge (15 years), and Valerie Potocki (30 years).

Churchville Lions support food distribution at local church

oversees the jelly bean jar guessers.

The Annual Easter Egg Hunt was held at the Harvey C. Noone American Legion Post 954 in Churchville. Due to early morning rains it was held inside the Legion Hall. Riga Recreation Supervisor Dave Thomas handled the jelly bean jars and raffles while Churchville Lion Marty Molinari and LEO Club members Olivia, Jenn and Maria along with Club Advisor Janelle Hernandez helped with handing out eggs and making the Easter Bunny a big hit. The event was a collaborative effort of the Churchville Lions Club, Town of Riga, American Legion, and the LEO Club.

LEOs Jenn and Olivia are handing out 10 eggs full of bunny treats to each child. Provided information and photos

Non-perishable food donations from Fairbanks Elementary School in February, delivered by the Churchville Lions to Union Congregational Church, amounted to about one-third of the items on the shelves shown here. The balance came from UCC’s network of neighboring churches, markets and dairies. The drive-thru distribution system was able to feed 37 families in March. Distribution is made the fourth Wednesday of each month between 4 and 5 p.m. For information, call 293-1665. Provided information and photo.

The Easter Bunny poses with LEO Club Advisor Janelle Hernandez and LEOs Olivia and Jenn. Provided information and photos

Lion Marty Molinari (right)

Lion President Al Arilotta with DG Judy MacKnight. Provided information and photos.

Lion Randy Kehl accepts his 25 Years of Service pin from Lion DG Judy MacKnight.

My Hometown Sports Olympian Jenn Suhr joins Roberts Wesleyan’s athletics team

Jenn Suhr, Olympic gold and silver medalist and three-time Olympian, has joined Roberts Wesleyan University ’s coaching staff as assistant men’s and women’s track and field coach, effective immediately. Following a legendary career in track and field, Suhr returns to her alma mater to oversee training and recruitment for student-athletes competing in the university’s Division II pole-vault program. She’ll coach the team alongside Chris Brhel, who will continue in his role as pole vault coach at the university, working together to build an elite program that will create pathways for future Olympic hopefuls in the sport. Recruiting for next season is now underway.

“We are proud to welcome home a true Roberts Wesleyan University and Western New York sports icon to be a coach in the program that helped vault her into the worldwide track and field spotlight,” said Bob Segave, executive director of athletics at Roberts Wesleyan University. “Suhr excelled as a student-athlete at Roberts and is admired for her many professional pole-vaulting accomplishments. I have great faith in Jenn and her ability to transform the lives of student-athletes and make an impact on the men’s and women’s track and field program into the future.”

In addition to her new role as coach, Suhr was inducted into the Roberts Wesleyan University Athletic Hall of Fame on Sunday, April 30, during the third annual Reggies.

Before retiring from track and field in 2022, Suhr’s prolific achievements within the sport firmly cemented her place as one of the most accomplished pole vaulters in American history. The Fredonia native first competed in collegiate basketball, where she became the all-time scorer at Roberts Wesleyan, before discovering her talent for pole vaulting. After picking up her first pole at age 22, Suhr embarked on a record-breaking 17-year career where she earned two Olympic medals in women’s pole vault — silver at the 2008 Olympics in Beijing and gold at the 2012 London Olympic games.

In addition to her successes competing on the world’s biggest stage, Suhr also holds several world records and set 12 American records. She won her first U.S. Championship title in 2005, just 10 months after picking up the sport. Suhr then went on to win an unprecedented 17 national championships and is the only vaulter in U.S. track and field history to win three Olympic trials. Upon her retirement, she held the world record in the indoor vault (5.03 meters, 16 feet, 6 inches), a record she still holds today.

Since getting her start in pole vaulting at Roberts Wesleyan, Suhr has returned to her alma mater several times over the years,

including for pole-vaulting exhibitions after the 2012 and 2016 Olympics. Her gold medal tour visited Roberts during Homecoming Weekend in 2012. Suhr’s induction into Roberts Wesleyan’s Athletic Hall of Fame further cemented her athletic legacy and impact at the institution. Suhr lives in Riga with her husband and former coach, Rick Suhr.

For more information on Redhawks Athletics, visit https:// robertsredhawks.com.

Provided information

Monroe County golf courses open for the season

Monroe County’s three public golf courses opened for the season on April 14. Opening day was named “Jim Carlucci Day” in honor of local golfing legend Jim Carlucci, who has won club championships at all county-owned golf courses: Durand Eastman, Genesee Valley and Churchville.

“Monroe County’s three affordable and accessible public golf courses add to the tremendous quality of life residents here enjoy throughout warmer months,” said County Executive Adam Bello.

In the past year, county golf courses saw more than $1 million in improvements, including:

•Clubhouse bathroom renovations at Genesee Valley and Churchville

•A new irrigation system, landscaping and paving work at the Churchville course

•A new pump station for irrigation at Durand Eastman

•Infrastructure improvements in equipment and work areas.

Free permits for discounted green fees throughout the season are available for seniors over 62, active military, veterans, youth under 17 and golfers with a physician-certified disability. Qualifying residents can apply for a free permit at any pro shop at each of the three county courses.

Tee times may be booked online at www.monroecountyparksgolf.com.

Provided information

Jenn Suhr. Photo from @RobertsWesleyan on Twitter.

My Hometown Museums

GCV&M offering new experiences, exhibits, and events in 2023

Genesee Country Village & Museum opens for the 2023 regular season on May 6, welcoming visitors to step into the rich history and natural environment of NY State’s Genesee Valley Region. The largest living history museum in New York, and third largest in the U.S., GCV&M encompasses over 600 acres and includes 68 buildings in the Historic Village, an extensive collection of sporting art and historic clothing in the John L. Wehle Gallery, and over five miles of trails and habitats at the Nature Center. Visitors of all ages will find something of interest all year long – farm animals frolicking in the spring, heirloom gardens bursting into bloom in the summer, fall leaf-peeping and harvest, and winter ready-making. Explore a full season of GCV&M happenings at https://www.gcv.org/events/.

Mother’s

Day and Mother’s Day Brunch

In celebration of Mother’s Day on Sunday, May 14, all Moms will receive free admission to GCV&M. The Museum will also hold a Mother’s Day Brunch on Sunday, May 14, with seatings from 11 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Guests can indulge in chef-inspired fare, mimosas, and more, before heading into the Historic Village to explore homes and gardens, learn about motherhood in the 19th century, and more. Plus, shop the Flint Hill Store or enjoy lunch in the Depot Restaurant. Learn more and purchase tickets (sold separately) for Mother’s Day and Mother’s Day Brunch at https://www.gcv.org/event/mothers-day-at-gcvm/.

Becoming Gendered: Garment as Gender Artifact

A thought-provoking new multi-media exhibit in the John L. Wehle Gallery explores how 19th-century Americans performed and navigated a changing landscape of gendered fashion. Becoming Gendered: Garment as Gender Artifact pulls at the thread of how dress provides the world with visual cues to interpret identity. Historic fashion is complemented by historic imagery in the form of daguerreotypes, ambrotypes, tin types, cabinet cards, carte de visite, and early 20th-century photography. What it means to be a man or a woman, both, or neither, evolves across the decades. So too, do the garments that allow individuals to inhabit gender identities. The exhibit begs the question - do we make the clothing, or does the clothing makes us?

Curatorial talks and guest speakers throughout the 2023 season will further enrich the exhibit. Learn more about Gallery talks and programs at https://www.gcv.org/the-john-l-wehle-gallery/curator-talks-andtours/. The exhibit will run for the 2023 and 2024 seasons in the John L. Wehle Gallery at GCV&M, and was made possible with support from Trillium Health. Learn more about the new exhibit at https://www.gcv. org/becoming-gendered-garment-as-gender-artifact/.

Special Events Coming up this Season

GCV&M is rolling out a full season of special events, including some returning favorites and some entirely new experiences in 2023. Collectors of vintage wares can browse and purchase quality antiques (plus handcrafted local goods with connections to 19th-century trades) at the Antiques & Artisans Show (May 13, Preview Party on May 12). Visitors will explore the impact of America’s greatest conflict on the Genesee Valley Region during Civil War Living History Weekend (May

20 and 21). Craft beer lovers can savor tastings and pints at History on Tap (June 2). The sounds of bagpipes will fill the air at the annual Celtic Faire (June 10 and 11). The Museum will bring to life celebrations of emancipation at Honoring Juneteenth (June 17). Families will gather to celebrate the nation’s birth at the Independence Day Celebration (July 4), and so much more. Details for upcoming special events and tickets can be found at www.gcv.org/events.

Historical Happenings Every Day

There’s something for everyone, every season, at Genesee Country Village & Museum. Visit in the spring to see historic kitchens utilizing freshly-grown goods and historic farmers demonstrating agricultural tasks in preparation for the season of plenty. Come in the summer to see heirloom gardens bursting to life and vintage baseball games in Silver Ball Park. Plan a trip in the fall to experience the glory of fall foliage around the Great Meadow and the Village Square. And make sure to come back in the winter for cheerful special events and ready making for the cold months ahead. New stories told throughout the Village celebrate the diversity of life in 19th-century New York and celebrate the broad tapestry that is our shared history. Explore weekly historic happenings at https://www.gcv.org/this-week-at-gcvm/.

Food, Drink, and Shopping at GCV&M

GCV&M is a destination for foodies and craft beer enthusiasts alike, with restaurant locations around the Museum grounds serving up chef-inspired fare. On tap at the Freight House Pub and Pavilion Garden Restaurant are Stocking Hill Ale and Fat Ox Ale, brewed by Rohrbach Brewing Co. referencing historic recipes from the 19th century. Visitors will find samples of historic “receipts” (called recipes, today), around the Historic Village, and can shop authentic baked goods in the D.B. Munger & Co. Confectionery. Picnicking is also welcome at GCV&M. Visitors will find unique gifts, Museum apparel, treats, and village-made goods in the Flint Hill Store.

Deals and Discounts

Again in 2023, visitors who purchase their tickets online in advance will save on the cost of admission for regular daily visitation. Group rates are offered to parties of 12 or more when scheduled in advance. Wednesdays May through Labor Day are Senior Days, during which Museum visitors 62 years and older will get $10 admission. The Museum offers a $3 discount on general and special event admission rates for all military veterans and college students with a valid ID. GCV&M is also a Blue Star Museum, offering free daily admission (including special events) to the nation’s active-duty military personnel and their families, including National Guard and Reserves. GCV&M is excited to now be a member of the Museums For All initiative, which offers $3 per person daily admission to EBT cardholders and their families. Museum Members receive free daily admission during the regular season, as well as guaranteed access to special events, and more. Learn more about becoming a Member at https://www.gcv.org/membership/

Planning a Visit

Genesee Country Village & Museum is open Wednesdays through Sundays, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. from May 6 through September 3, with reduced days of operation throughout September and October. The last day of the 2023 regular season will be Monday, October 9. Visitors are encouraged to purchase tickets online in advance and save – online tickets for daily admission are $18 for adults; $15 for seniors and students ages 13 to 18; $12 for youth ages three to 12; and free for Museum Members and children two and under. There will be an additional $1.50 charge for tickets purchased day-of and at the door. Special event pricing may vary; visit www.gcv.org or email info@gcv. org for details.

Provided information

Visit GCV&M this spring to see heirloom gardens in bloom, costumed interpreters tending to farm animals, hearth fires roaring, historic trades in action, and so much more.

My Hometown Garden

All about Lilacs

by Kristina Gabalski

Spring is here, and it is time for lilacs. The popular shrub is not native to North America, but it has been planted here for the enjoyment of its beautiful flowers and amazing scent since the 1750s. Common lilacs – Syringa vulgaris – are native to Eastern Europe. Another popular species is Syringa patula, which is native to Asia.

While it is true lilacs lack year-round interest, their displays of white, pink, violet, blue, magenta, lilac, and purple blooms in midto-late spring are a welcome sight after a long winter.

Lilacs are very hardy and are adapted to USDA Hardiness zones 3-5. They do best in a sunny site with good air circulation. I like to grow them near the house so I can enjoy their fragrance even when I am inside. Iowa State University Extension notes that lilacs need four to six hours of sunlight each day for best flower production. They will tolerate a wide range of soil conditions but do best in moist, well-drained soils. Space the shrubs 10 to 15 feet apart for specimen displays and five to eight feet apart if you want to create a hedge.

Regarding deadheading spent flowers – it is not absolutely necessary that you do so. The shrubs will bloom the following year even if they have not been deadheaded. It is not uncommon to see old lilacs blooming with abandon in a spot near where a farmhouse once stood. The spent flowers are not attractive, however. If you can reach them and have the time, deadheading can improve the appearance of the shrub and help it put its energy into next year’s flower bud production. This can result in a heavier bloom the following year. If you deadhead your lilacs, make your cut at the base of the flower cluster and just above the uppermost leaves.

Lilacs are suckering shrubs, Iowa State University Extension explains, and they can benefit from pruning. The plants will set their flower buds for the following season in mid-summer – not too long after the spring blooms fade. The best time to prune is immediately after flowering to help encourage the most flowers in the following year and prevent pruning the buds after they are set. Remove select branches at their point of origin or entire branches from the base of the suckering shrub rather than with shearing or clipping, Iowa State University advises. This preserves the natural shape and helps promote new growth that will produce better blooms than old stems. Remove the oldest and largest branches every three to five years to keep the shrub rejuvenated.

can

result in excessive vegetative growth and suppress flowering. Remember that when planting common lilacs, it can take as many as five or more years for a shrub to begin blooming. They need time to grow and become established before they are able to flower.

The dwarf Korean lilac ‘Miss Kim’ can flower within one or two years of planting. ‘Miss Kim’ flowers profusely with intensely scented blooms slightly later than common lilacs, which can help extend your season. I find that their bloom time is shorter, however, especially if early June temperatures are hot.

Overall, lilacs are easy to grow and have few pest and disease problems. Most are subject to powdery mildew, a fungal disease that looks like white, dusty growth on the leaves. Common lilacs are highly susceptible, while Preston lilacs and dwarf Korean lilacs are resistant. Powdery mildew is not attractive, but it does not cause serious harm to the plant. Iowa State University says spraying with a fungicide is not warranted. Planting in a sunny location will help with powdery mildew and also encourage lots of flowers.

Master Gardener Spring Gala in Batavia May 20

Rain or shine, the Genesee County Master Gardeners will be hosting their annual Spring Garden Gala on Saturday, May 20, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Cornell Cooperative Extension of Genesee County, 420 East Main Street in Batavia. This annual plant sale features a variety of perennials, many of which are from the gardens of Master Gardeners. There will also be a selection of house plants. The plant sale starts promptly at 10 a.m.; no early birds please.

Visit the Basket Auction for garden art, gift certificates and a variety of themed baskets. Basket Auction drawing starts at 12:30 p.m. Gently used garden books will also be for sale.

The garden garage sale was so popular last year, they’re doing it again. An assortment of gently used, or maybe never used, gardening items such as containers, tools, signs, and garden decor will be

set up in the parking lot area near the garden shed.

Bring in a soil sample from your garden or lawn for a free pH test. A half-cup sample of your garden soil in a clean container is plenty. Master Gardeners will be available to answer gardening questions.

Don’t miss this chance to pick up some great plants at great prices, plus garden art and other interesting items. Arrive at 10 a.m. for the best plant selection. Proceeds from the sale benefit the educational outreach of the Genesee County Master Gardener Program.

Visit http://genesee.cce.cornell.edu/events for more information. Gala and Master Gardener program updates will be available at https://www.facebook.com/CCEofGenesee.

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