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President Steve Harrison
General Manager Manuel Karam
Creative Director Kelly Nolan
Assistant Creative Director Kara Ivison
Production Supervisor Jeff Wasson
Prepress Supervisor Mike Pratt
Circulation Manager Kristy Rapone
Member Colleen Mann
Members of: PO Box 340 • 1471 Route 15 Avon, NY 14414 • Fax: 585-226-3390 Phone: 585-226-8111 www.gvpennysaver.com Email: mail@gvpennysaver.com
TIPS FOR BUYING A TEEN’S FIRST VEHICLE Is the time right? Everyone in the household may be anxious to add an extra car to the mix because it may alleviate trying to juggle use of one of the other family cars. However, do not rush into the transaction. In recent years, a lack of inventory related to the pandemic drove up the prices of both new and pre-owned vehicles. Families may need to wait until inventory increases and prices drop.
Inc. WEEK OF SEPTEMBER 8, 2025 What to watch & where to watch it:
TIPS FOR
youronline order!Use codeGVPS10 so much to love.
TAKING STUNNING NATURE PHOTOS
Study what you want to capture. The best photographers do their research. If you want to grab a great photo of an egret by the water’s edge, spend time watching these birds in their habitat and learning their behaviors.This might help you predict when to snap the best photo.
Residential/Commercial Serving Western New York 585-335-7902
Fair Housing Statement
All real estate advertised in the Genesee Valley Penny Saver is subject to the Federal Fair Housing Act, which makes it illegal to advertise any preference, limitation, or discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, age, marital status, handicap, familial status, or national origin, or intention to make any such preference, limitation or discrimination. We will not knowingly accept any advertising for real estate which is in violation of the law. All persons are hereby informed that all dwellings advertised are available on an equal opportunity basis. Fair Housing Enforcement Project Monroe County Legal Assistance Center 1 W. Main St., Rochester, NY 14614 (585) 325-2500 • www.lawny.org
EQUAL HOUSING OPPORTUNITY
WAYS TO SUPPORT LOCAL BUSINESSES
Use social media to give your recommendations on small businesses that go above and beyond in quality and service.
Each numbered row contains two clues and two answers. e two answers differ from each other by only one letter, which has already been inserted. For example, if you exchange the A from MASTER for an I, you get MISTER. Do not change the order of the letters.
FINDING THE RIGHT FENCING
Chain-link fences may not add the aesthetic appeal homeowners are looking for, but they are relatively inexpensive, durable and functional. Chain-link fences are low maintenance, though homeowners looking for fences to provide some privacy may need to get creative if they install chain-link fencing. Planting flowers, shrubbery or trees near chain-link fences can add some aesthetic appeal and a little privacy.
DID YOU KNOW?
According to the American Osteopathic Association, one in five teenagers will now experience some form of hearing loss. That rate is roughly 30 percent higherthanitwas20yearsago.Though various factors have contributed to that increase, the AOA notes that many experts believe an increased use of headphones among teenagers is partly to blame. Listening to headphones at high volumes for extended periods of time can lead to lifelong hearing loss for children and teens. Parents can encourage children and teenagers to listen to music at reasonable levels when using their headphones,and one effective way to control volume without sacrificing sound is to use over-the-ear headphones instead of earbuds. The Cleveland Clinic notes that over-theear headphones are generally more effective than earbuds at cancelling outside noise. That allows over-the-ear headphone users to listen to music at lower volumes, which can significantly reduce their risk for noise-induced hearing loss.
BENEFITS OF HIRING PROFESSIONAL CONTRACTORS
The DIY movement has inspired many homeowners to tackle home repair and remodeling projects on their own. DIY projects can be rewarding, and many homeowners who have embraced the DIY movement have discovered talents they never before knew they had. But no matter how simple popular home renovation television shows make remodeling projects appear, homeowners should know that such undertakings are far more difficult than they appear on television. Homeowners who overestimate their abilities and the time they have to complete projects can cost themselves substantial amounts of money. In fact, there are a variety of reasons homeowners might want to work with professional contractors when tackling home improvement projects.
Design and Installation
~Reginald Farrer, In
FREE HOME ENERGY IMPROVEMENTS
(Family Features) Here are three things you can do to help protect your mobile devices and your identity: Password protect your device. A recent study by Javelin Strategy and Research found that even though many smartphones are being used to handle sensitive financial information, only 33 percent of smartphone owners password-protect their devices. If your phone falls into the wrong hands, you could make it very easy for someone to access your personal information and steal your identity.
Review your social network privacy settings. It’s not just advertisers taking advantage of the personal information you include on your social network sites. As the use of social networking continues to increase, it’s expected that the use of malware will rise, too. Cybercriminals are always looking for ways to steal information and money. So you need to review your privacy settings frequently, be careful of what apps you install, and never “friend” someone you don’t know.
Consider getting extra protection. There are a growing number of tools available to help you monitor and protect your identity as well as restore your name and credit, should your identity get stolen. For example, Mobile Rhino is a specialty insurance program that not only insures your device, but also offers an Identity Monitoring Service that alerts you of any changes that could indicate someone else is using your information.
By Fifi Rodriguez
1. FOOD & DRINK: The Middle Eastern dish called falafel is made mostly of what ingredient?
2. GEOGRAPHY: Which country has the most UNESCO World Heritage sites?
3. TELEVISION: What is the name of Hawkeye’s living quarters in the “M*A*S*H” sitcom?
4. ANIMAL KINGDOM: What is a male swan called?
5. LITERATURE: Which Irish author wrote his last novel in crayon?
6. MEASUREMENTS: How many square feet are in a square yard?
7. SCIENCE: What’s the main function of red blood cells?
8. MOVIES: Streaming movies became eligible for the 2021 Oscar awards for what reason?
9. ANATOMY: What type of acid is found in the human stomach?
10. U.S. CITIES: Which city was named for a British prime minister?
ANSWERS
Chickpeas
Italy.
The Swamp.
A cob.
James Joyce.
9.
To carry oxygen.
COVID-19 pandemic.
Hydrochloric acid.
Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania (William Pitt the Elder).
DatafromtheUnitedStatesDepartment of Justice indicates that partner violence accounted for 20 percent of all violent crime in the U.S. in 2018. The World Health Organization defines intimate partner violence as behavior within an intimate relationship that causes physical,sexual or psychological harm. Such violence can include acts of physical aggression, sexual coercion, psychological abuse, and controlling behaviors. Violence perpetrated by both current and former spouses and partners falls under the umbrella of intimate partner violence. Domestic violence is so prevalent that the National Network to End Domestic Violence reports that it fields more than 19,000 calls on a typical day. Anyone who is a victim of domestic violence or suspects a loved one or acquaintance is being abused is urged to call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-7233 (SAFE) or 1-800-7873224 (TTY) right away.
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SNOWBLOWER
UNDERSTAND HARDINESS ZONES BEFORE PLANTING
Gardening benefits the environment in myriad ways. Maintaining natural landscapesandpreservinggreenspacescanreducethecollectivecarbon footprint of the human race. Trees, flowers and other greenery filter the air and create welcoming habitats for all species of animals and insects.
Many home gardeners set out each spring to create landscapes that cater to all of the senses. But choosing plants that are unlikely to thrive in certain climates can lead to dissatisfaction and premature plant demise and may require gardeners to use more fertilizers, pesticides and other not-so-Earth-friendly techniques to help plants thrive.
One of the more important steps gardeners can take before spring arrives is to educate themselves about plant hardiness zones. Hardiness zones are defined by the average climatic conditions of the region and are broken down into various zones. The USDA Hardiness Zone map divides North America into 13 separate zones. Each zone is marked by 10 F incremental differences from the last zone. In some versions of the map, each zone is further divided into “a” and “b” regions.
The National Gardening Association says the USDA Hardiness Zone Map was revised in 2012. The latest version was jointly developed by the USDA’s Agricultural Research Service and Oregon State University’s PRISM Climate Group. To help develop the new map, the USDA and Oregon State University requested that horticultural and climatic experts review the zones in their geographic areas. As a result, the zone boundaries in the 2012 edition of the map have shifted in many areas. Canada’s Hardiness Zone map, updated in 2010, uses nine different zones.
Zone maps are tools that show where permanent landscape plants can adapt. Home gardeners who are looking for shrubs or perennials to last year after year should recognize that such plants must tolerate year-round conditions, including the lowest and highest temperatures and the amount of precipitation. Snow cover and humidity also can impact a plant’s propensity to thrive.
While zone maps are not perfect, they can be useful in planning and ensuring the survival of future gardens. Plant and seed manufacturer Burpee says that other factors to consider that also affect the viability of plants include wind, moisture and soil conditions. The company offers an interactive zone finder on their website that will indicate the hardiness zone as well as average first and last frost dates. Visit www.burpee.com/ findgrowzone to enter a zip code.
home services
FALL CLEAN-UP
• Trimming
• Leaf removal
• Cut back hedges & bushes
Free estimates & references
Fully Insured
Sawyer's Landscaping
Jeff: 585-737-2702 • Over 25 years’ experience 100% Satisfaction Guaranteed!
Various issues can cause grass blades to thin. Working with a landscape professional is a great way to combat such issues before they compromise the look of a lawn.
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Sharpening Special!
Sept. 7th-13th, 2025
Drop them
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Hours: M-F 8am-6pm, Sat. 8am-4pm & Sun. 10am-2pm
Why mulch?
$1.95 per blade! + Tax
Mulching can benefit plants around a property in various ways. Many people lay mulch because the mulch helps soil retain moisture in the summer, when temperatures tend to be at their hottest. This can help plants survive summer heat waves.
Mulch also can be used to suppress weeds. Weeds, which steal moisture plants need to build strong roots and survive summer, need light to grow. When laid correctly, mulch deprives weeds of the light they need to grow. Organic mulches can even provide homes for crickets and a type of beetle that feed on weed seeds.
Mulch also can deter harmful pests depending on the type of mulch homeowners choose. When purchasing mulch, homeowners will have to choose between the aforementioned organic mulch or man-made mulches, which may be made of plastic or rubber. While man-made mulches may repel pests, they also can have adverse effects. Plastic, for example, can heat up in the summer and cause plants to burn. Certain organic mulches can repel insects that can threaten plants. That’s because the majority of organic mulches increase the amount of beneficial bacteria in the soil, and they also increase the presence of helpful insects that do not pose a threat to plant life. Those helpful insects help keep harmful insects at bay. Compost is a type of organic mulch that may attract harmful insects. While that does not mean homeowners should shy away from using compost as mulch, they should know that they may need to employ organic insecticides to combat their unwanted guests.
GUIDE TO PROPER TREE PRUNING
Trees may require pruning for a variety reasons. Storms may have damaged branches, necessitating a pruning. In other instances, trees may have outgrown their yards, overpowering the landscape. Autumn and winter, when trees largely go dormant and fallen leaves make it easier to see the branches beneath, may be prime times to prune. Pruning during the dormant period also minimizes sap loss and stress to the tree, and can help cut down on the growth of fungi. In addition, insects are less likely to be problematic during the colder months of the year.
Ready, Set, Read!
Literacy is worth celebrating yearround—books and reading offers lifelong benefits for every age group!
BABY TALK
Foster Literacy Skills by Reading to Babies
10 TIPS TO GET KIDS READING MORE
Ask your child to read a book to you. Play a board game together.
Take your child to get their own library card. Read newspaper comic strips or comic books. Ask kids to write a short story and read it out loud. Read and prepare a recipe together. Make bedtime stories a nightly routine. Play word games like reading tongue twisters, doing crossword searches or unscrambling words.
Take a book with you wherever you go, so you can read together at any opportunity.
Keep a book on your child’s nightstand, so they are prompted to read if they wake up early.
It’s never too early to begin reading to babies. In fact, reading to infants beginning at birth helps support their cognitive development and their bond with parents. It also increases the likelihood that parents will continue reading to children as they grow, improving language skills and concentration to prepare them for academic success.
Zero to Three, an organization focused on early childhood development, recommends these book-type guidelines for babies and toddlers:
Birth to 6 Months - chunky board books, soft fabric books and vinyl bath books
6 to 9 Months - board books with short, simple stories and colorful illustrations
9 to 18 Months - board books with simple stories, stories with rhymes and phrases that repeat, and stories with pictures of other babies and familiar objects like animals
18 to 24 Months - longer, slightly more complex stories; humorous stories; and stories featuring silly rhymes
24 to 26 Months - books with paper pages, nonfiction stories about things like animals or seasons, and books that discuss jobs
ANDDON’TFORGET… studies show that good reading habits in older adults can help improve memory, sharpen decisionmaking skills, reduce stress and protect against Alzheimer’s and dementia.
Servicing most brands for over 46 years! Open Monday-Friday, 9am-6pm. Saturday, 9am-3pm.
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Shout Out to e Hemlock Fair
I’m Sorry
You used the center turning lane as a passing lane. I raged out and called you a bad name. You responded in kind. I should have let it go. I am sorry.
Food is Far Too Expensive
Another great fair week in Hemlock this year. Thank you to all who run the fair. My family had a wonderful time. Also a shout out to the 4-H Youth. It was great to see the animals and how well taken care of these animals were. You all did an amazing job. Can’t wait for next year’s fair.
Unbelievable Kindness
Finishing up at Canandaigua Wegmans self-checkout, I found both my credit card and my Shoppers Card were not in my purse. When I told the attendant I had cash, she directed me to the Service desk. There I was asked my name, where upon I was handed both of my cards. They had fallen out of my purse in the parking lot. (Note to self - ALWAYS ZIP YOUR PURSE.) A very good Samaritan had brought them into the store. Whoever you are - a million thanks.
Very Kind People
I was at a local Tops grocery store recently. I use the bus. Had several heavy bags in the rain that day. A stranger with a dark blue van asked if I needed a lift. Went out of her way to get me back home.
Over the past 6 months, the price of groceries has increased exponentially. A 12 oz bag of coffee cost 4 dollars more. A pound of Angus beef increased from $7.50 to $10.00. Produce is expected to increase by 40 percent because there are no longer workers to pick the crops. Times are hard and they will only become worse.
Dog Walkers with No Regards
It is great that you walk your dogs, it is good for both of you. What isn’t great is that you don’t pick up after them. And there are some that do pick up, but decide it is ok to leave the little bag on a lawn or the sidewalk. PICK UP the bag and take it home, or find a dumpster nearby, usually there are plenty of them. It is not right that you leave your mess for others to take care of!
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GUIDELINES: Submissions published as space allows. We reserve the right to decline/edit/omit info. We assume no responsibility for submissions. Submissions must include phone # or email. Noncommercial use only. 20 word limit. Please call to remove listing once item is taken/received.
FREE STUFF OFFERED FREE STUFF WANTED
• Whirlpool WASHER and ELECTRIC DRYER. Good condition. Works well. Pick up in Livonia. 585-346-5804
• Loose GRANDFATHER WALL CLOCK PARTS - springs, clock face, pendulum, nice cabinet. Must take all. Pick up in Fairport. cszilagyi1@rochester.rr.com
• Remaining STUMP of downed tree. Dead & ready to use. You cut and take away. Oakfield. clkendall57@yahoo.com or text 585-202-4872
• MAGAZINES – 1970 or older (Sports Illustrated, Life, Pro Football, Quarterback, Times, and Newsweek). In good condition. Fairport. 585-388-0318
• UPRIGHT PIANO Melodigrand with bench! You move! Canandaigua ktyler2@rochester.rr.com
• KEURIG coffeemaker-not working. For parts/repair. Pick up in Henrietta. 585-334-0077
• PRINTER: Canon Pixma 3600. Condition good. Needs new printer cartridges. Installation disc included. Pick up in Henrietta. 585-334-0077
• Sonata WINTER FLOOR MATS, front and rear. Pick up only. Batavia. r18ich@gmail.com
• ORIENTAL CARPET 7’5” x 10’11”. Small tears at fringe end. Red, dark blue, light blue, cream, tan. Batavia. reich17@aol.com
• HOSTAS and DAY LILIES. You dig. Victor. 585-742-3687
• Five SHOE and BOOT BOXES. Various sizes. 585-345-4261
• HAMMOCK and TIKI LIGHTS. Victor. Sport3940@yahoo.com
• TIGER LILIES and YUCCA PLANTS. You dig. Palmyra. 315-584-3626
• Small quantity of HANDMADE QUILTS. Some may need minor repair. For nonprofit organization only. Caledonia. 585-944-2793
• YAMAHA PIANO. Excellent condition. You pick up. 585-474-9473
• Eight boxes of COAL. Rochester. marussell44@gmail.com
• 1983 SUNSHINE HOUSE TRAILER. Webster. jwissick@rochester.rr.com
• OLD WOODEN STOCKADE FENCE FOR FIREWOOD. Already dismantled. Pick up, Dansville. 585-245-4869
• PACKING MATERIALS. Styrofoam packing peanuts and other types. Bring something to put in as I need my containers. East Rochester. 585-733-8211
• UPRIGHT PIANO, circa early 1900s. Rebuilt 1996. Pick up only, Churchville. djohnson009@rochester.rr.com
• Used or new BARBED WIRE. 585-363-0218
• PET ITEMS: Cat food, cat litter, dog food, Advantage or Frontline. holdfort@rochester.rr.com
• RECORDS, speakers, receivers, tube amps, turntables, amplifiers, guitar amps, neglected guitars in any condition. 585-766-8842
• VINTAGE SKATEBOARDS for decoration. 585-766-8842
• ATV or DIRTBIKE for father/son project. Gas powered. Running or not. Call or text Matt 315-576-1278
• WEBER GRILLS wanted. Gas or charcoal. Call or text 315-576-1278
• Looking for RINGS from Phillips Avent baby bottles. For my special needs granddaughter. jenabrado@gmail.com
• COAT TREE, SOCK ASSIST, and a CROCHET SET. 585-507-8788
• Small, round, outdoor hexagonal or octagonal PICNIC TABLE. Delivery or pickup. Penfield. 585-354-7049
• Two-drawer dark wood FILE CABINET. 585-507-8788
• FIREWOOD – hardwood logs or felled trees. No bugs or core rot. 585-581-0193 leave message
• SOFA SLEEPER BED. 585-813-4725
• GREEN WIRE GARDEN FENCING. Any length, any height. 585-733-1090
• Used WEGHT TRAINING Equip. for Youth Football Players/Wrestlers - Weights, bars, and benches. TEXT ONLY 585-465-0133
• ANTIQUE BICYCLE. 585-746-6435
• Lightweight, portable ELECTRIC SCOOTER. 585-415-8513
• CAR, VAN, or TRUCK in good working condition to drive around town and to appointments. 585-498-8083
• A properly working large kitchen REFRIGERATOR with freezer as soon as possible 585-305-8037
hometown events
There’s so much happening at your local libraries!
Bloomfield Public Library
9 Church St., Bloomfield • 585-657-6264
M-Th 10-8; F 10-6; Sa 10-2
Mendon Library
22 N. Main St., Honeoye Falls 585-624-6067 • mendonlibrary.org
M-Th 9-8; F 9-5; Sa 9-3; Closed Su Victor Farmington Library
15 W. Main St., Victor • 585-924-2637 victorfarmingtonlibrary.org
M-Th 9-8; F 9-6; Sa 10-4; Su 12-4
Grilling season has arrived, and amateur grillmasters everywhere are gearing up for another summer of backyard barbecues and family dinners outside under the summer sun. But once you fire up that grill and cook your first hot dog of the season, your work is not quite done. Cleaning the grill after you have eaten makes it easier to prolong the life of your grill and ensure the foods you eat are safe to consume.
* On Sept. 6, 1943, a new highspeed train traveling between New York City and Washington, D.C., derails, killing 79 people and seriously injuring 100 more.The Congressional Limited traveled at a then-unprecedented speed of 65 mph.
Guidelines for Hometown Events
To Post Your Event:
Log in and submit your event online at www.gvpennysaver.com/calendar or in person at: 1471 Route 15, Avon, NY 14414 Submit your event by the Monday 2 weeks prior to publication date.
Events must occur on a specific date and time. Event submissions may not include businesses or schools seeking registration for classes or programs, or organizations seeking crafters, vendors, or item donations.
Genesee Valley Penny Saver reserves the right to approve/reject events for publication. Events are published as space allows.
Small businesses benefit one another, as a 2017 report from the Canadian firm FreshBooks found that 66 percent of small businesses outsource services to other small businesses.
HOW STUDENTS CAN HANDLE THE TRANSITION TO MIDDLE SCHOOL
Find a middle school buddy. Ask an older sibling or invite someone who is currently enrolled in the school to speak with your child and answer any questions he or she may have. Hearing directly from a fellow student may make your child feel more comfortable about what to expect.
&body mind
Conception and childbirth are miracles of life. While parents experience many joys during pregnancy and delivery, they must discuss potentially uncomfortable conversations that need to be addressed. This includes the potential that babies will born with birth defects.
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Over the last year, microcephaly, a rare but serious disability, has garnered substantial attention. Microcephaly is a neurological condition in which an infant’s head is significantly smaller than the heads of other children of the same age and sex, advises The Mayo Clinic. The condition is typically the result of the brain developing abnormally in the womb or not growing as it is supposed to after birth. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says microcephaly can be an isolated condition, or it can occur in combination with other major birth defects. Depending on the severity of the condition, children with microcephaly can face any number of symptoms. According to the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, symptoms of microcephaly include impaired cognitive development, delayed motor functions, dwarfism, seizures, difficulties with balance, and other neurological abnormalities.
Although microcephaly is rare, according to the National Birth Defects Prevention Network, it may become more common. That’s because microcephaly has been linked to mothers who were exposed to the Zika virus while pregnant. Exposure to in utero substance abuse, as well as genetic or chromosomal issues, also can lead to microcephaly. Dr. Nassim Zecavati, an assistant professor of pediatrics and neurology at the Georgetown University School of Medicine, says essentially anything that slows down brain growth in the womb or causes a severe deprivation of oxygen and blood flow before, during or after delivery can be problematic. Unfortunately, no treatment exists to return a child’s head and brain to normal size. Instead, treatment focuses on reducing the impact associated with neurological disabilities and subsequent physical disabilities. Early childhood intervention programs that include speech, physical and occupational therapy may be part of a child’s course of treatment. Certain medications can be prescribed to help with seizures or hyperactivity. Thanks to its link to the Zika virus, microcephaly has garnered considerable attention over the last year-plus. Though still rare, microcephaly is something expecting parents and couples planning to have children should familiarize themselves with.
EXPLAINING METASTATIC CANCER
Cancer survival rates are on the rise, and that rise can be credited to a host of factors. Advancements in cancer research and treatment have played a big role in rising survival rates, as have the efforts of various organizations to promote cancer prevention and raise awareness about the disease.
The World Health Organization notes that between 30 and 50 percent of cancers can currently be prevented by avoiding certain risk factors and implementing evidence-based prevention strategies. However, people can be vulnerable to cancer if they do not pay attention to their bodies or make an effort to protect themselves against certain risk factors for cancer. In such instances, cancer may already have spread to other parts of their bodies, or metastasized, before they are even diagnosed, greatly reducing their likelihood of surviving the disease.
Cancerthatspreadstodistantparts of the body is known as metastatic cancer and is often referred to as “stage IV cancer.” According to the National Cancer Institute, when observed under a microscope, metastatic cancer cells feature traits like that of the primary cancer and do not mimic the cells in the part of the body where the cancer is found. That is how doctors can tell that the cancer is metastatic cancer and has spread from another part of the body.
When doctors diagnose metastatic cancer, they will refer to it with the same name as the primary cancer regardless of where the metastatic cancer was discovered. For example, the NCI notes that breast cancer that has spread to the lungs will not be referred to as lung cancer, but metastatic breast cancer. In addition, when treating the disease in this example, doctors will treat the cancer as stage IV breast cancer, not as lung cancer.
Understanding metastatic cancer can help recently diagnosed men and women better comprehend their disease and their prognosis.
Jumping Into Deals!
Dr. Julie Labrecque
By Keith Roach, M.D.
Physician Bills Patient for Exam But Wasn’t in the Room for It
DEAR DR. ROACH: When I have appointments with my physicians at our local, highly rated academic health system, they no longer do a physical exam. But in the after-visit note, there is a documented and complete physical exam that doesn’t reflect reality. This happened on all types of visits, including annual visits and pre- and post-surgery visits.
If I am examined by a resident, the attending physician will attest in the aftervisit note to having examined me alongside the resident when, in actuality, the physician was not in the room. I find this appalling, but it seems to be common practice. These doctors are billing for services that they do not deliver. Do you see any effort in the medical world to respond to this? -- J.H.
Q. A.
ANSWER: The new electronic medical record systems make it easy to document a complete physical exam, sometimes with a single click. If this happens once, it’s a mistake. If it happens consistently, this is at least a system error, if not deliberate deception. The term used in the industry is “upcoding” because documentation of a complete examination allows for higher billing to the insurance company.
Physicians need to be very careful not to document a physical exam that they didn’t do. A less-kind word for consistently doing this practice is “fraud.” Penalties can be up to tens of thousands of dollars per false claim.
The rules for resident supervision are complicated. In general, billing can only be done for services that are provided by or are under the direct supervision of the attending physician. There are exceptions to this, such as resident physicians who provide primary care. However, once again, saying that you were there supervising the resident when you weren’t is against the law.
Now if the attending physician comes in the room and asks questions to confirm the key findings of your medical history, they do not have to do a complete examination to fulfill the obligations for the primary care exemption.
Outside of primary care, the attending physician must be physically present for the key portions of the services that are being billed.
Q.
DEAR DR. ROACH: I saw your recent column about the wife with intractable depression.I can relate,but you barely glanced over what has been life-changing for me as a treatment: TMS (transcranial magnetic stimulation).
It is quick, easy and painless, and most insurance companies (even Medicare) fully cover it.To be frank, Doc, not nearly enough suffering people have ever even heard of TMS as an option. Would you illustrate to your readers just a tad more about how powerful it can be as a treatment option? -- R.F.W.
A.ANSWER: Most people with depression respond well to treatment with a combination of psychotherapy and one of the standard medications, but some people need to try several medications before they find one that works for them. Unfortunately, there are people who do not get good results with medication. TMS is an option in these situations (but you don’t have to fail with multiple medications to try TMS).
Even in people who have failed with multiple medications, about 30% will have a “marked” improvement or a resolution of their symptoms. TMS doesn’t cure everybody, but I agree that it’s a therapy that needs to be more widely used. The biggest problem is that it isn’t available everywhere.
Dr. Roach regrets that he is unable to answer individual questions, but will incorporate them in the column whenever possible. Email questions to ToYourGoodHealth@med.cornell.edu.
Inc. All Rights Reserved
HANDMADE GLASS CREATIONS:
The Art, Heart, and Family Legacy of Ron Frear
BY LORI BRUTON
A spark of inspiration flickered to life for Ron Frear when he discovered a kiln le behind by a tenant, reminding him of the ceramic artistry his mother had always encouraged in him. With a background in construction, plumbing, and block masonry, his new endeavor was founding SiOx Ltd.
It’s a family affair. e artistic inspiration and business have always been a collaborative venture. His sister helped him brainstorm the company’s name: SiOx Limited, representing the silicon oxide that comprises glass. Ron’s wife has stood by his side through every season of the journey. eir children, introduced to the family business as little ones, have grown up helping at art fairs - learning to greet customers, wrap packages, and master sales and sincere conversation.
e Frears’ booth became a revolving door of returning friends and customers, many of whom watched the children grow from show to show, year a er year. Ron says, “ e strength and support of our family and the people we’ve met has kept us going.”
What began in 1986 as a practical way to earn a living soonblossomedintoasourceofpassionandpride.Ron’s earliest pieces, floral patterns stenciled and infused in glass, mirrored his lifelong love for flowers and nature. Irises, poppies, lilacs, and bird designs adorned dinnerware, bowls, and complete place settings.
His wife requested small glass flowers to use as wedding favors, and these became a customer favorite, growing into one of SiOx’s defining creations, with glass flowers and wall art now bringing color and creativity to homes locally and across the world. Small and large interchangeable glass flowers in a variety of styles and colors make a home pop with color inside and out yearround. Ron’s intricate wall hangings and large-scale flower sculptures cra ed from steel and copper are also seen in such spaces as the University of Buffalo Dean’s office.
As the Frear children grew, so did the business, expanding its repertoire and drawing a loyal customer base that returns year a er year, many for new designs and many for the memories.
Ron helps bring out customers’ artistic abilities as they design and collaborate to create a personalized product with the customer’s preferred colors, shapes, and designs. He has several molds to choose from to make a stunning piece and prized possession.
Ron says nature’s vibrant palette inspires his cra , with Western New York’s ever-changing seasons, especially Spring, when everything comes back to life and colors blossom.
"The strength and support of our family and the people we’ve met has kept us going."
RON FREAR
Some of Ron’s favorite stories rise from customers determined to take his art wherever life leads. One Pennsylvania woman sold her home, leaving her beloved Frear glass flowers in the yard as part of the deal, then ordered more to plant at her new home.
Ron’s visually vibrant and stunning creations have been commissioned by Cooper Vision, Salvation Army, the sheriff’s department, and even a special set of dinnerware for Warren Beatty’s “Dick Tracy” movie. But, for Ron, the true reward isn’t fame or accolades; it’s validation from a devoted client and the joy of creating art that makes people smile.
Ron’s artistic journey is self-taught, shaped by trial and error, creative curiosity, and the guidance that sometimes it’s okay to say “no.” at’s a lesson Ron has learned himself, brought to the forefront when he thinks about the invitation he received in 1986 to attend glassblowing classes at RIT’s prestigious School for American Cra smen. ough he graciously declined at the time, he looks back and admits: “If I had to do it over, maybe I’d have gone.” Still, his masterful fused glass process of melding color, light, and nature using a kiln has become his signature.
When he’s not cra ing masterpieces or traveling for shows, Ron and his wife retreat to the ousand Islands or state parks, camping, boating, and enjoying the outdoors as they did when their kids were young. is season in their lives allows them to travel for fun, not just for shows.
His advice for aspiring artists? “Don’t give up. Keep your nose to the grindstone. I tried for years to get into some shows. e competition was fierce. But persistence pays off. And keep good records: write your color ‘recipes’ down so you can replicate your best work.”
is rewarding business is a family legacy that lives on. rough every stage of trial and error, bloom and setback, show and homecoming, Ron Frear’s SiOx glasswork proves that the most beautiful creations, like the strongest families, are shaped with patience, passion, resilience, and plenty of heart.
For more information and upcoming shows, visit www.sioxglass.com or like @sioxglass on Facebook!
Share your original stories about local heroes, community events, school achievements, or hidden gems–email your story idea to hometown@gvpennysaver.com!
Visit Ron at the Clothesline Art Festival September 6th & 7th!
pet place
Kinser
is a Chinese Shar Pei and is almost 16 years old! He loves sunning himself on the deck and has always had that “no care in the world“ attitude. He is an extremely friendly guy and is loved very much.
“Appreciation
can make a day, even change a life. Your willingness to put it all into words is all that is necessary. ”
Margaret Cousins
Go to www.gvpennysaver.com and submit your BRIGHTER under the tab
By Sam Mazotta
Pill Time Solutions
DEAR PAW’S CORNER: I read your article regarding the cat not swallowing his medications. My father taught us years ago to teach our puppies to eat wet food off a spoon. Now that the dogs are older and our vet has them on glucosamine and vitamins C and E, we put the pills with the spoonful of wet dog food and voila, they eat it! In fact they look forward to their pill time. I don’t know if the same method would work with a cat, but I would think so. -- Sharon A., via e-mail
DEAR PAW’S CORNER: After reading your column on getting cats to swallow pills, I wanted to share information about a product I found to be helpful in this regard. It is called Pill Pockets, and it is available at many veterinary hospitals and most major pet stores. The product is essentially a treat with an open side to allow the pill to be put inside and then closed up by pressing in the sides. It comes in pouches of approximately 45 treats and in different flavors like salmon and chicken.
My cat loves the treat, and it allows me to give her a pill without any hassle or stress for either of us. It is also available for dogs. Please check it out. Your readers may find this product helpful. -- Elaine B., Belmont, Calif.
DEAR SHARON AND ELAINE: Many thanks to both of you! I received several helpful tips from readers on giving medications to pets, from hiding the pills in food to ordering custom preparations from pharmacists. Sometimes a pet owner will have to try more than one method to see which works best, and I’m grateful to everyone for their suggestions.
From Silver Lake to Conesus, dogs love a good splash but not all are strong swimmers. If you’re boating, consider a doggie life vest. It makes retrieval easier if they fall in, and yes, they come in adorable patterns too.
CSportsmanship principles
all young athletes should know
ompetitive sports have a lot to offer young people. In addition to exposing children to the thrill of competition, competitive sports can set a foundation for a lifetime of healthy living. One study published in the American Journal of Preventive Medicine in 2014 found that afterschool physical activity programs were the most effective strategy to reduce childhood obesity among children between the ages of six and 12.
Competitive sports also teaches valuable lessons about humility and respect. Sportsmanship is a vital and valuable component of competitive sports, and that’s a lesson no athlete is too young to learn. Coaches and parents can work together to emphasize these principles of sportsmanship to young athletes.
• Always respect officials. In the era of instant replay in professional sports, criticism of officials has become more common. Such criticism can easily move from the professional to the amateur arena if players are not taught to always respect the officials. Unfortunately, many amateur sports officials continue to be the victims of overaggressive behavior on the parts
of coaches, parents and athletes, and many have simply chosen to walk away rather than subject themselves to abuse. Estimates from the National Association of Sports Officials indicates that the group’s membership has dropped by more than 20 percent since March 2020. Coaches and parents can practice what they preach when teaching young athletes to respect officials at all times, regardless of how games unfold on the playing field.
• Respect the rules. Respect for officials should coexist with respect for the game itself. Every game has rules, and knowing and adhering to those rules is a vital component of good sportsmanship. Coaches and parents can set the tone for this by encouraging kids to play by the rules during the games, but also by adhering to rules governing practice times and offseason workouts when no one is watching too closely.
• Respect opponents. Showing respect for opponents is another principle of good sportsmanship. Social media provides a readily available platform for athletes to disparage their opponents before and after games. Such platforms have even proven too tempting to resist
for some professional athletes. But showing respect for opponents, even in defeat, illustrates to parents and coaches that young athletes are mature and cognizant of the fact that participation in sports requires good sportsmanship.
•Respectcoaches. Good sportsmanship also involves respecting coaches, even when they make decisions players and their parents do not necessarily agree with. That respect has been dwindling in recent years, and it’s contributing to a coaching shortage in youth sports. One survey of more than 200 coaches in the Syracuse, N.Y., area found that nearly 60 percent of coaches had considered quitting over conflicts with parents. Many coaches volunteer their time to teach young people the game, and players should be taught to respect coaches at all times. That includes those times when players feel like they aren’t getting enough playing time or when they disagree with coaches’ in-game decisions.
Sportsmanship is a vital component of sports participation. Teaching young athletes the principles of sportsmanship adds one more unique benefit to sports participation.
LOVE TO WRITE?
Have a way with words and a love for your community? We’re looking for someone who can shine a light on the everyday stories that make our community special!
FULL-TIME CONTENT WRITER
Grow our network of stories in print and digital media. You’ll have the opportunity to connect with community leaders across the region to shape and share the stories that matter most to our readers.
SKILLSET:
Creativity to generate interesting stories, deadline-driven and organized, strong command of contemporary writing styles and traditional grammar rules.
WORK FROM HOME!
We offer a hybrid work model. Occasional local travel for interviews may be needed.
JOB DUTIES:
Prepare weekly written content for our publications in print and online.
Construct written content for a number of town directories and niche publications across the region.
Assist with proofreading ads, articles and print work.
$17-19/hour based on experience. Will consider part-time for the right candidate.
Please submit a resume, cover letter, and 1 or 2 writing samples to our Lead Content Writer, Suzie Wells: suziew@featuredmedia.com Apply Today!
KEEPING IT LOCAL, TOGETHER.
Lately, it feels like the world is moving faster than ever — with constant talk about technology, artificial intelligence, and big changes coming our way. It’s easy to feel overwhelmed by it all.
We want to give you a break from all the noise when you read the Penny Saver. We want to continue to curate a product that you feel good about reading, where you can learn about what’s happening with your neighbors and feel proud about living in our beautiful region. e Penny Saver has been many things to many people but the one constant for the publication has been a focus on “local.” To that end, we want to expand all that we share with you to make this the best and most useful publication. So what does this mean?
e bottom line is we want to create and share more local content. at might include stories about high school athletes, highlights of local trails and other natural gems to visit, homesteading tips, reviews of new books coming out from local authors, shared local poetry, new playground reviews, and even local generational recipe sharing! ese are just a taste of what we want to build. However, our focus will not be on hard news. Politics and police blotters have never been
100% of your contribution goes toward growing our editorial content!
our specialty, and we want to leave that type of reporting to the folks in the news who do that best.
ere is a reality to these ambitions. Costs continue to rise, especially for postage and revenue is unpredictable due to an ever-changing advertising landscape. We’ve worked hard since the pandemic to lower our costs and provide the same great service to you, but adding content to better serve readers requires more resources.
It’s said in our industry that the health of a local publication is a direct reflection of the community it serves. Our commitment to local goes beyond our content. Our paper is printed right in Avon, NY by employees, managers, and owners who live here in Western New York. We hope to remain strong for many years to come and even foster the next generation of readers who share the love of “local.”
We’ve included the form below for your support. What we’re asking for is a small contribution from readers to help us fund and grow the local content we provide. Please feel free to share what other types of stories you would like to see in the Penny Saver. 100% of your contribution goes toward growing our editorial content!
ank you.
$5.00$20.00$50.00Other COUNT ME IN! Donate Online: www.gvpennysaver.com/donate - orMail Your Donation + Form to: GVPS-Mail PO Box 340, Avon, NY 14414
I’m excited to support local with my donation of: What kind of stories or features would you love to see in the Penny Saver?
Email: The Genesee Valley Penny Saver & Featured Media Management Team
Please make checks payable to: Genesee Valley Penny Saver
polltime
Crafted from 800+ pounds of butter from Batavia’s O-AT-KA Milk Products and recycled after the fair to help power a Pavilion farm, the butter sculpture is a staple of the NYS Fair. What do you enjoy most about the annual sculpture?
- I’m indifferent or apathetic about the butter sculpture
Poll ends 09-09-2025
Poll ended 09-02-2025
According to current data, the average home price around our area is up 8–15% year-over-year, with homes selling for about 15% above asking. What do you think the local housing market will look like over the next year?
33.3% Home prices will keep going up 11.1% Prices will level off or even dip 22.2% Things will balance out — fewer bidding wars, more normal sales 22.2% Homes will still sell above asking 11.1% More houses will come on the market
SENIOR NEWS LINE
By Matilda Charles
Retirement regrets?
I was eavesdropping on two senior ladies in a big box store, specifically in the furniture aisle. Being discussed was a very large TV cabinet with doors and shelving. While it was on sale, the price was apparently not enticing.
“I regret not buying a big television back when I had the money for one, before I went on Social Security,” said one.
“I hear that,” replied the other one. “But my regret is moving into a place that’s too small for me to even have a big TV cabinet like this.”
And there I was, enticed. What is it we all most regret now that we’re seniors? I posed the question to AI (artificial intelligence).
Our most common regret, says AI, is that we didn’t save enough for retirement. Or that we didn’t start saving early enough in our lives. Money was a major theme, according to AI, especially when it came to underestimating health care expenses.
For a different take on things,I turned to my local informal poll group. The replies ranged from “I regret moving into a community with no sidewalks” to “I regret not getting a cat because now I’ve reached the cutoff age and the animal shelter won’t let me adopt a very young cat because I might die before the cat does.” The third one chuckled, “Well, I regret encouraging my son to take that job across the country because now he’s not around to do heavy lifting.” Another was serious when he replied, “I wish I’d bought a boat. It would be paid for by now. I’d head for the Bahamas.”
If you’re curious about what kinds of regrets seniors have about retirement (especially if you haven’t yet retired and have time to make a course correction in your retirement plans), do an online search for “biggest regrets of retirees,” or something similar.
Submitted by a local reader as part of our annual Pen-A-Poem contest. Share your thoughts at gvpennysaver.com/hometown
e Secret of a Poet
By Ralph J. Adams, 97 years of age
Cli on Springs, NY
A poet is made of love, of life and time, And tires to put his feelings into a verse that rhymes. From sunrise to sunset, the miracles that he sees, Is noticed and remember by a poet like me.
With pen in hand, to write down a verse or two, To describe to others, the wonders he sees for you.
So, each morning when you awake, just get up and smile, Just look out your window, for just a little while.
Notice the flowers and trees, bending with the breeze, And see the birds soaring in the air with ease.
Try to remember the beauty, and put them down on pad, And try to explain to others, the inspiration you had.
God has given each one of us, each a special little gi , Maybe your little words, will give someone that special li .
You will be inspired in your soul, and you will agree, You made yourself a poet, like little old me.
If you notice in the morning, the dew upon the grass, e sun emerging in the east, and the shadows that it cast.
Crowning every tree with a bright and golden glow, e rainbow a er a rain, with its beautiful colored bow. Trees with their colorful leaves, swaying in the Autumn breeze,
And each little wave that reaches the shore from the foamy sea.
A butterfly fluttering, landing on a tulip bright,
A bird singing in a tree, an eagle in its flight. e mountains hued with purple, with their majesty, A background of beauty for the naked eye to see.
God has given us these wonders, for all of us to embrace, So, take the time in your day, and try to slow your pace.
To put this picture into words, how gratified you will be, Transferring beauty to others, you will be a poet like me.
now hiring!
Administrative Assistant
e Honeoye Falls United Methodist Church is in search of a new Administrative Assistant. We strive to be an all-inclusive and welcoming environment.
Responsibilities include: Providing vital administrative and organizational support. Candidate would be responsible for managing communications, records, calendars, bulletins and newsletters. Candidate would work closely with the Pastor to ensure the smooth operation of church activities while maintaining confidentiality.
Requirements: High school diploma, computer skills and organizational skills.
Salary: $15.50/hour - $16/hour
Position is flexible hours, some on-site work. Interested candidates can send resumes and references to: nandelwin@aol.com
Dental Hygienist Wanted
Small, friendly family practice seeking licensed RDH, Mon.- urs. 8am-5pm (flexible).
Competitive pay, paid holidays, PTO. Compassionate care & great team environment.
Send resume to: alana.claffeydental@gmail.com GO FIGURE Answers
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