My Hometown Magazine August 2022

ENERGY BILLS HIGH? Save Energy & Money While Staying Cool!

Improve the comfort of your home this summer with a home energy audit by taylor!

Our Trained Home Energy Auditors Check For Vulnerability In Your Home including: • Poor Insulation • air leakage • Inefficient appliances • and More!

CALL TAYLOR FOR ALL YOUR HOME SYSTEM NEEDS! • heating & ac • Plumbing • Indoor air Quality • home Performance

Check Out Our Video On Home Performance Services And Call Us Today To See How You Can Update Your Home and New York State Pays For It!

scan here to see Projects In our area

1775 Buffalo RD., RochesteR, NY 14624

www.TaylorHeating.com 2 | My Hometown August 2022

Call for details

*

index 4 A Westside News, Inc. Publication Pubisher Keith Ryan Managing Editor Gary Sajdak Email: gary.sajdak@westsidenewsny.com Contributing Writers & Photographers Barbara Burke, Daniel Hoock, Colleen Onuffer, Tami Raco, Joe Territo (Photographer) Advertising 585-352-3411 Lori Antonelli ext. 133 Rachael Blair ext. 139 Debbie Day Ext. 131 Tami Raco ext. 129 Mary Lou Rockow ext. 134 Gary Sajdak ext. 135 Ellen Stevens ext. 130

6 7 7 8 10 11 12 14 15 16 17

Community Butterfly Garden Continues To Grow In Gates Spencerport FCU Celebrates 60th Anniversary Ogden Police Chief Mears Retires MCSD Welcomes Newest K9 Myra Lions Club Of Chili Builds Beds For Needy Children Fowler Memorial Highway Designation Signed Into Law Get Out And Grow Gardening Homesteads For Hope Wins $200,000 Grand Prize Town of Riga Highway Dept. Recognized In NYS Contest Summer Fun At Genesee Country Museum BBCSD Creates Coordinator Of Student Services Position Rochester Red Wings August Home Game And Promo Schedule

Cover Photo by Joe Territo Photography

Production 585-352-3411 ext. 126 or 128 Vicki Caspersson, Karen Fien, Joanne Michielsen & Suzette Coleman News Submissions: editor@westsidenewsny.com

1776 Hilton-Parma Corners Road Spencerport, NY 14559 Phone: 585-352-3411 Fax: 585-352-4811 westsidenewsny.com info@westsidenewsny.com

My Hometown August 2022 | 3

My Hometown Scouts

Community Butterfly Garden continues to grow in Gates

by Colleen Onuffer Westgate Park in Gates has an expanded butterfly garden thanks to Matt DeLeon. The North Chili resident doubled the size of the park’s current garden, turning it into the shape of a butterfly, with a walkway, wooden bench, and laminated information board.

This accomplishment was Matt’s Eagle Scout Service Project.

But Matt isn’t your typical teenage Boy Scout. The 35-year-old is part of a troop for special needs adults.

Matt first got involved with Boy Scouts in 2006 when he moved into a group home and met two members of the troop. By the following year, he was very involved with the group. He dreamed of becoming an Eagle Scout, the highest rank in the Boy Scouts of America, like his grandfather, a long-time troop leader. Although

4 | My Hometown August 2022

his grandfather passed away before it happened, “that didn’t stop him!” said Karen DeLeon, Matt’s mom.

In order to reach Eagle Scout status, one needs to earn a total of 21 merit badges, 13 of which are required. Kids without special needs have until they are 18 years old to earn their Eagle, but special needs scouts can receive an extension to complete the requirements.

Currently, Matt has around 50 merit badges. “But it took so long for him to complete those required ones,” said Karen.

“They’re hard, especially for a child with special needs.”

One of his most difficult merit badges was the swimming requirement.

“Although Matt grew up with a swimming pool, it took him

Photo by Joe Territo Photography

My Hometown Scouts

three years of summer camp to complete the swimming merit badge,” said Karen. “He doesn’t give up!”

Another requirement for earning the Eagle Scout status is completing an Eagle Scout Service Project, an opportunity to demonstrate leadership while providing a benefit to the community. When it came to choosing an appropriate project, Matt turned to Dan Hoock, Recreation Director at the Town of Gates, where the troop is based.

“Matt loves to work outdoors,” said Karen. “When Matt heard about extending the butterfly garden at Westgate Park, he was all for it.”

Three months of planning and preparation went into the project. The first step was submitting paperwork to get the project approved. Next, Matt drafted a letter to ask for donations from area businesses – including Van Putte Gardens and the Garden Factory, who donated flowers and other gardening supplies.

“A lot of the expenses came out of Matt’s pocket, but he was determined to make this project happen,” explained Karen.

As the big day approached, Matt and his mom arranged food and drinks for the garden volunteers and picked up a first aid kit – just in case.

On July 9, the day before Matt turned 35, he organized his

Matt and his mother, Karen, in this photo. Photos provided.

friends and family who volunteered to help. “It was very, very involved, but we had a good set of hands,” Karen said. The group spent the day putting down topsoil, mulch, and a border around the new garden, which was created in the shape of a wing. They installed a walkway made out of pavers, connecting Matt’s garden with the existing butterfly garden, which was created as an Eagle Scout project by another scout years ago. Together, the two gardens resemble a butterfly.

Matt also created an information board and cemented it into the ground, in hopes of providing a teaching tool for younger school kids. On it, he posted a diagram of a butterfly’s lifecycle, a ten-step list for planting your own butterfly garden, and pictures of butterflies that are native to the area.

“We had butterflies buzzing around our heads as we were planting the flowers,” said Karen.

“That was so cool!” said Matt, noting it was his favorite part of the experience.

The garden benefits the community and promotes healthy pollination. But the project means the most to Matt.

Karen explained, “It’s something he can visit and say, ‘Look what I did… I made this!’”

Now that the garden is complete, Matt will need to submit paperwork regarding his project and go in front of a review board, which will determine if he earns the Eagle Scout status. With that achievement, Matt is expected to receive multiple palms, which are awarded for each five additional merit badges a scout earns beyond the required 21.

From there, “Matt will probably stay with his troop and help others who don’t have Eagle yet,” said Karen. “He’ll stay with the troop as long as they are active.”

The scouts in this group come from all over the Greater Rochester area. “This troop has just been a Godsend for Matt,” she added.

Matt’s butterfly garden can be found at Westgate Park, 1489 Howard Road, Rochester.

My Hometown August 2022 | 5

My Hometown Business

Celebrating the 60th Anniversary of the Spencerport Federal Credit Union

by Barbara Burke Spencerport Federal Credit Union (SFCU) says, “Proudly Serving Our Members Since 1962,” and 60 years later, in 2022, their successes continue to grow.

SFCU was originally established to serve the Spencerport School District. Through expansions in 2006 and 2017, they now serve those who live, work, worship, or attend school in Monroe or Orleans Counties.

What is a Credit Union? According to SFCU’s website, “Credit unions are not-for-profit financial cooperatives that exist to serve their members. Like banks, credit unions accept deposits, make loans and provide a wide array of other financial services. As member-owned and cooperative institutions, credit unions provide a safe place to save and borrow at reasonable rates. Credit Union earnings are exempt from income tax because it is a notfor-profit organization. All profits, after setting aside a proper amount for reserves, go back to the membership in the form of dividends, lower interest rates on loans, or improved services.”

Every adult member of the Credit Union also has one vote in governing and setting policy. Board members are all volunteers, serving a three-year term. SFCU’s services include loans, mortgages, lines of credit, credit cards, and more.

Nancy Bodhorn is the current Manager/CEO of SFCU. She will retire on September 2, 2022, after working there for more than 19 years. Nancy has a rich history in the finance world, starting as a teller at a small savings bank in Buffalo in the 1980s.

She worked in several aspects of branch banking before taking time off to stay home with her kids. Upon her return to the work world, she came back into finance as a Mortgage Officer.

Nancy says credit unions are all about their communities.

“SFCU is known for their great member services and lower rates, and our members love us. Our Board of Directors and Supervisory Committee are all Credit Union members, and they serve as volunteers. It is a three-year commitment, and I have never had any problems finding members to serve. People want to be involved in their communities and want to help their neighbors.

That’s what we attribute our success to.”

During her career with SFCU, Nancy served the community for ten years as treasurer of the Spencerport Area Chamber of Commerce. Through the Chamber of Commerce, Nancy was involved with the Dennis Pelletier Youth Hall of Fame Scholarship.

She also volunteered on the School-to-Career Advisory Council, where a financial program was developed for Spencerport School students that is now a course requirement for graduation. “In the course, students learn about daily finances, how to budget, manage a household, save and invest. The course also provides an understanding of how interest rates work. We have a scholarship that is awarded each year based on financial literacy and on the student’s commitment to community involvement,” Nancy said. Active in her community during her career, Nancy served on many other boards, committees, and public service associations.

In retirement, Nancy plans to travel, visit with her children who live out of state, and spend time with family and friends.

Succeeding Nancy as SFCU Manager is Spencerport native Kate

6 | My Hometown August 2022

Czarnecki. After graduation from Fredonia college, Kate and her family lived in the city of Rochester for eight years. She said, “I really wasn’t looking to change jobs, but when I saw this opportunity in Spencerport, I knew it was my dream job, and I applied.

I am so happy to move back to Spencerport, to work in the community, and for my kids to go to Spencerport schools.”

Kate is no stranger to the financial world. She has worked at other Credit Unions, as a teller supervisor, as a Branch Manager, and in marketing. Her mother was also in finance as the CEO of the St. Pius Federal Credit Union. “Credit Unions have a special purpose - neighbors helping neighbors. People like investing in small financial institutions that serve their communities. The consistency of the management of SFCU over the years gives the feeling of being well run, and the success comes naturally,” she said. When Kate takes over the role as manager, she will be only the fourth manager since the start of SFCU in 1962.

On August 31, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., SFCU members are invited to a special lunch to congratulate Nancy on her retirement and to meet and welcome Kate as the new manager. Spencerport Federal Credit Union is located at 2775 Spencerport Road, Spencerport.

For more information on SFCU membership, services, and history, visit www.spnfcu.org

CAMPER AND BOAT LOAN RATE SALE!!

Rates As low as

4.49%

HURRY!

Sale ends 9/2/22

for up to 120 months on purchases and refinances from other lenders!

2775 Spencerport Road, Spencerport, NY

Hours: M-W 8:30am-4pm, Thurs. 8:30am-5pm, Fri. 8:30am-6pm

585-352-6890 • www.spnfcu.org

Federally Insured by the NCUA. We do business in accordance with the Federal Fair Housing Law and the Equal Credit Opportunity Act. Membership subject to eligibility.

My Hometown Police Department

Chief Chris Mears announces retirement from Ogden Police Department On August 4, Ogden Police Chief Christopher Mears announced his upcoming retirement from the Ogden Police Department.

Mears has served in the Ogden Police Department for 27 years.

His extensive police career includes serving as a K9 handler from 1999 to 2002 and being promoted to Sergeant in 2006. Mears attended the FBI National Academy Session 239 in 2009 and was named Chief in 2015. Chief Mears’ final day will be on Sunday, September 18. An interim chief will be appointed while the Town conducts interviews for a new chief.

“There are no words to adequately describe my gratitude to Chief Mears for his steadfast commitment and service to our town,” said Ogden Town Supervisor Mike Zale. “Throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, Chief Mears demonstrated tremendous leadership and helped us navigate through difficult times. I’m thankful for his friendship and support as I transitioned to the role of Supervisor in January. He has been someone I could depend on, and I’ve always trusted his instincts and dedication to preserving our Town’s public safety.

“We’ve been privileged to have such a loyal and respected public servant at the head of our local police department. I wish Chief Mears a happy and well-earned retirement and congratulate him on an extraordinary 27-year career with the Ogden Police Department,” concluded Zale.

“It has been such an honor to serve as Chief of this amazing group of police officers, civilian staff and volunteers,” said Chief Chris Mears. “I’m grateful to the community for the support I have received, and for the overwhelming support for this Department. I’m looking forward to new challenges and opportunities, but I will dearly miss working with my brother and sister officers and my fellow Chiefs.”

Provided information

Police Chief Chris Mears.

MCSO welcomes newest K9 The Monroe County Sheriff’s Office’s newest K9 partner, Myra, and K9 handler, Deputy Brian Callaghan, recently returned from the Transportation Security Administration’s Canine Training Center in Texas, where they were awarded the “Top Dog Award” for outstanding achievement during their training. Their abilities rate amongst the top of their peers and reflect a great degree of dedication to the profession. The skills demonstrated by Deputy Callaghan and Myra will contribute to a high level of security for the world’s transportation infrastructure.

Myra and Deputy Callaghan are in the process of attaining certification for the detection of explosives. Once certified, they will be primarily assigned to the Frederick Douglass Greater Rochester International Airport in support of the TSA mission.

Provided information and photo

Deputy Brian Callaghan and Myra.

My Hometown August 2022 | 7

Lions Club of Chili builds beds for needy children When Mother’s Day rolls around each year, you can count on the Lions Club of Chili to hold their annual Geranium Sale in an effort to beautify and benefit the community. But that’s not all this group of approximately 20 volunteer members brings to the Chili area.

In June, the Lions Club of Chili built 32 beds for kids who don’t

8 | My Hometown August 2022

have beds. These beds were delivered to area children with a frame, mattress, linen, and pillow. “We had the lumber delivered and cut on Friday, and Saturday, we prepared the beds,” said Mike Donner, President of the Chili Chapter. “There were so many forces that made this work. First, Lion Ron Ronald Tucker convinced the club to pursue this huge undertaking. We con-

tacted the local chapter of Sleep in Heavenly Peace, a national organization that works to make sure no kid sleeps on the floor.

The group supplies the tools and very friendly and experienced mentors.”

Tony Smith and the Chili Recreation Department let the group use their garage and were very helpful on the project. Tim Hortons in Chili donated donuts. Lion Janine M. Wheeler organized a contingent of volunteers to create blankets and quilts to donate to SHP. The Brandel-Murphy Youth Foundation provided the club with a large grant to help make this possible. This foundation supports service organizations that help children in need throughout New York State.

“The club realized this project needed more manpower than we could supply,” said Donner. “We reached out, and our needs were met by some generous groups. The Brockport Lions, Scottsville Lions, and the Hilton Lions all came through big time. Then, the Moose at the Churchville Lodge heard about our project and supplied some very experienced manpower.” Over 70 volunteers took part in the project.

In addition to the beds for kids initiative, the group relies heavily on their annual geranium sale to help fund most of their community initiatives. Each year, the organization takes orders for an average of 5,000 plants from the community. Proceeds from the sale benefit the Lions Medical Loan Closet in North Chili. The closet provides over 100 needy people a month with medical accessories such as walkers, canes, crutches, wheelchairs, and more. Other initiatives include support and funding for the Chili Public Library, Goodwill, Camp Abilities, and more.

The club meets at 6:30 p.m. on the second and fourth Tuesday of every month at Moose Lodge, 5709 Chili Riga Center Road, Churchville. Contact Membership Chair Bert Maggio at 585-2610743 for membership information.

Provided photos

My Hometown August 2022 | 9

My Hometown Memorial

Firefighter Robert Fowler Memorial Highway designation signed into law On July 21, Governor Hochul signed the Firefighter Robert Fowler Memorial Highway bill (A8534) into law which was introduced by Assemblyman Josh Jensen (R,C,I-Greece). Residents will be able to honor the spirit of Fowler’s legacy and heroism for years to come on South Union Street in Spencerport between Lyell Avenue and Nichols Street.

Robert “Bob” Fowler exemplified the true meaning of heroism.

On February 22, 1997, he and his 15-year-old son responded to a call from Spencerport Volunteer Fire Department during a heavy windstorm. While he was in his car on the way to the call, a 40-foot tree fell on his car crushing him and barely missing his son. For over 20 years, he willingly gave all he had to protect his beloved community from harm until he lost his own life in the line of duty.

State Senator Robert G. Ortt said, “The renaming of a portion of State Route 259 in the Village of Spencerport to the ‘Firefighter Robert Fowler Memorial Highway’ is just one way we can help remind residents of the sacrifices our emergency responders make while serving our communities. The heroism and bravery our first responders display on a daily basis is something we should never take for granted. Although Firefighter Fowler may have given his life in service to our Spencerport community that evening in February, the memory of him and his dedication to protecting us will continue to live on for years to come.”

“Today is a special day for the Fowler family, the Spencerport Fire Department, and residents of Spencerport and Ogden, as

10 | My Hometown August 2022

they can continue to honor Robert’s legacy while driving through the village each day. Bob selflessly put others before himself day in and day out, and it is such an honor to be able to memorialize him,” said Jensen.

“We are so thankful to him and his loved ones for their dedicated service to keeping our neighbors safe. It’s a privilege to be able to show Robert Fowler. Photo from the this small token of apprecia- National Fallen Firefighters Fountion for our local hero, Fire- dation. fighter Robert Fowler.”

Jensen also introduced two other bills recognizing local fallen heroes, one that would designate a portion of State Route 259 in the town of Parma between Lake Ontario State Parkway and Dunbar Road as Specialist Jason Hasenauer Memorial Highway (A8535A). The other would recognize a portion of Latta Road and State Route 18 in the town of Greece as Sergeant Gary Beikirch Memorial Highway (A10110). The bills passed both the Assembly and Senate and are waiting to be signed into law by the governor.

Provided information

My Hometown Gardening

Get out & grow!

by Kristina Gabalski Rudbeckia adds interest to the garden Its common names include Black-eyed Susan, Gloriosa Daisy, and Yellow Ox Eye. Whichever name you prefer, Rudbeckia light up the landscape in mid-to-late summer with their bright, golden blooms and dark centers. These perennials native to North America are hardy in Zones 4-9. They are members of the Asteraceae family and have erect stems with alternate, deeply lobed hairy leaves which can feel like sandpaper. The plants form clumps and produce colonies via rhizomes. The two- to three-inch diameter blooms have ray-like petals and a flat, dark eye center.

Most Rudbeckia are perennials, but the R. hirta species is an annual. Other species which are commonly available are R. fulgida, R. grandiflora and R. triloba.

Rudbeckia prefer full sun with more than six hours of direct sunlight a day, but will tolerate partial shade. The plant prefers evenly moist, well-drained soils, but is drought and heat tolerant once established.

Because of its upright growth, Rudbeckia is ideal for mass plantings and naturalized areas as well as in perennial beds. Strong stems mean it rarely needs staking. The flowers attract bees and butterflies and the seeds are relished by birds. Hover flies and other beneficial insects are also drawn to the showy blooms.

Rudbeckia can be subject to several disease problems, although infrequently. These include powdery mildew, bacterial leaf spots, fungal leaf spots, stem rots, downy mildew, and fungal rusts.

Clemson Cooperative Extension says that these pathogens are encouraged by excess moisture on the leaves caused by frequent rain or overhead irrigation. Cultural practices such as proper spacing, removal of dead plant material, and drip irrigation can reduce the risk of infection.

If your Rudbeckia show signs of viral infection or phytoplasma diseases – which cause deformed flowers or leaves – it is best to remove and destroy the affected plant material. Aphids, caterpillars, and Japanese beetles can also damage Rudbeckia. Additionally, young leaves can be subject to slug and snail damage.

Rudbeckia fulgida is the most common species with large, lanceshaped basal leaves. It grows two to three feet in height and two feet in width. Cultivars include the very popular ‘Goldsturm,’ as well as ‘City Garden,’ and ‘Little Goldstar.’

Rudbeckia grandiflora is a rhizomatous perennial species native to the Eastern U.S. This species is huge, growing 39 to 47 inches in height and spreading 23 to 29 inches. The flowers are bright yellow and attract pollinators and beneficial insects.

Rudbeckia hirta is a short-lived perennial species that is treated as an annual. It does self-seed prolifically. The flowers are larger and have more variety in color than other Rudbeckia species.

Cultivars include ‘Autumn Colors,’ ‘Cherokee Sunset,’ ‘Goldilocks,’ ‘Goldrush,’ ‘Prairie Sun,’ and ‘Rustic Colors.’ Varieties such as ‘Prairie Sun’ have bright yellow/greenish centers. Annual varieties of Rudbeckia make wonderful cut flowers.

Rudbeckia triloba is native to eastern North America. It is a short-lived perennial that self-seeds easily and works well in naturalized areas. Bright yellow flowers have a black center and are great for including in native plantings.

A related species, Rudbeckia laciniata is sometimes called the “Outhouse Plant.” Its large yellow flowers are whimsical and work well as cut flowers.

Annual varieties of Rudbeckia have a wider variety of colors and petal shapes than their perennial counterparts. All make great cut flowers, attract pollinators, and add interest to the mid-to-late summer garden. Photos by Kristina Gabalski.

My Hometown August 2022 | 11

My Hometown Neighbors

Homesteads for Hope Community Farm wins grand prize totaling $200,000 in Kubota’s Hometown Proud Contest

As part of its 50th anniversary celebration in the U.S. Kubota Tractor Corporation hosted a Hometown Proud Contest that awarded grants to organizations across the country that are on a mission to revitalize underserved communities with new and promising solutions.

There were two parts to this contest and back in July, local nonprofit Homesteads for Hope learned that out of nearly 900 applications, they were selected as one of the five winners for the first phase of the Kubota Hometown Proud contest. They were thrilled to receive the $100,000 grant and determined to double the amount by securing the most votes in Kubota’s Community Choice online contest. Homesteads for Hope’s mission won over the hearts of people across the nation and reaffirmed to the local community why this inclusive farm is so special. With over 101,000 votes cast, Homesteads for Hope came out on top, which doubled their grant amount to $200,000.

“We couldn’t be happier,” shared CEO and Founder Jennyrae Brongo. “As a grass roots organization, we have made tremendous progress since purchasing our 55-acre farm in 2016, but we needed this boost. Honestly, the entire special needs community needed this win, now more than ever before. We are always applying for different kinds of funding and the process is usually exhausting.

Working with Kubota has been different from the start. They care.

They know we care and together, we will button up Phase 2 here at the farm, which gives people of all abilities a place to learn, work, and grow. This win also gives us the momentum to move onto Phase 3, which includes our eagerly anticipated inclusive housing village, which will give 250+ people a place to call home.”

Grants and Media Coordinator Heather Burroughs was so appreciative of the national exposure and explained, “We currently serve over 600 families and have 3,000+ visitors each year, but our community has fully embraced what we offer and its heartbreak-

12 | My Hometown August 2022

ing to turn away families who are desperate for programming and housing options for their loved ones with special needs. This funding is a very big deal for Homesteads for Hope and we will make the most out of every penny! We are very thankful that our supporters voted for us and helped us win. With this kind of exposure, our intentional community is gaining serious traction and we would love for people to see our mission in-action. No words could adequately describe this place and the hope it stirs inside people. We encourage everyone to come out and see it for themselves.”

Homesteads for Hope is a 55-acre community farm located along the Historic Erie Canal in Ogden. While many nonprofits in the special needs community did not survive the pandemic, Homesteads grew over the last few years, and was able to take in some of the people who had nowhere else to go. Homesteads for Hope uses

My Hometown Neighbors “nature’s classroom” to teach people with disabilities important life skills, how to work real jobs, and is a beautiful model of true inclusion. Anyone interested in learning more about Homesteads for Hope is encouraged to visit their website or Facebook page or, better yet, stop by in person. Shop at their farm market or café or enjoy one of their open to the public events, including the live music nights every Thursday.

The 2022 Kubota Hometown Proud grant for Homesteads for Hope will be used to: expand their Social Garden Program for those with more challenging needs and mobility-based disabilities; double their 80-plot community garden and the program’s impact; and renovate the estate home with new doors and windows to weatherproof the main program spaces for year-round use. With the Community Choice Grant, Homesteads for Hope will also be able to finish the renovation on their 18th century historic barns to include new siding and electrical upgrades and pour new concrete pathways to increase accessibility. These projects will allow Homesteads to triple the amount of people they serve and provide the momentum needed to start their eagerly anticipated inclusive housing village, which will give more than 250 people of all abilities much needed housing options.

Provided information and photo

My Hometown August 2022 | 13

My Hometown Community

Town of Riga Highway Department recognized in statewide contest The NYSLTAP Center - Cornell Local Roads Program (NYSLTAP - CLRP) recognized the Town of Riga Highway Department in its 2022 Build a Better Mousetrap Competition for their outstanding achievement in innovation. The department displayed exemplary ingenuity in the development of its “Shoulder Backup Roller.” The Town of Riga Highway Department’s “Shoulder Backup Roller” allows them to safely compact the edge of the pavement transition area and shoulder vegetation, for a safer transition if a vehicle departs from the road.

“The Build a Better Mousetrap Competition highlights innovation at the local level. The entries for 2022 include a fantastic array of outstanding ideas by the highway and public works departments across New York State,” David Orr, PE, Director of NYSLTAP Center - Cornell Local Roads Program.

The NYSLTAP - CLRP Build a Better Mousetrap Competition is a statewide contest for NYS highway and public works departments held annually to discover and share creative innovations that solve everyday problems. Entries are judged under the criteria

of cost, implementation, transferability, and commonality of the problem solved. Winners go on to be entered into a national competition.

The New York State LTAP Center - Cornell Local Roads Program provides technical assistance and training to highway and public works departments across New York State. Additional information about the New York State LTAP – Cornell Local Roads Program Build a Better Mousetrap Competition can be found online at https://cals.cornell.edu/nysltap-local-roads/technical-assistance/ build-better-mousetrap.

Provided information and photo

The Town of Riga Highway Department’s “Shoulder Backup Roller.”

14 | My Hometown August 2022

My Hometown Events

Summer fun at Genesee Country Village & Museum The summer season is in full swing at Genesee Country Village & Museum, and the month of August is packed with programs and events for the whole family. The museum is open Wednesdays through Sundays from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., and presents daily programming in the Historic Village, opportunities to interact with costumed interpreters and see 19th-century trades in action, meet farm animals, enjoy lunch or a craft beer in the Depot Restaurant and Freight House Pub, shop in the Flint Hill Store, and more. Daily admission tickets are available for purchase online at a discounted rate: https://shop.gcv.org/daily-admission-ticket2022-season.html Kids Free Days on Thursdays in August Thursdays in August are Kids Free Days at GCV&M. On August 11, 18, and 24, all kids 12 and under will receive free general admission. Families will find a wide array of activities in the Historic Village for kids to enjoy, with special themes each Thursday: The Science of Cooking (August 11), Crafts and Trades (August 18), and Fun and Games (August 24). Families can also visit the John L. Wehle Gallery, where they will find hands-on opportunities to create a waterfowl clothespin craft inspired by the new exhibit Duck, Duck, Shoot! The Story of American Waterbirds, as well as a ditty bag craft. The nature trails at GCV&M’s Nature Center will be open for outdoor adventures, families can enjoy lunch in the Depot Restaurant or Pavilion Garden Restaurant, and historic treats will be available for purchase in the D.B. Munger & Co. Confectionery. On the way out, visitors can explore the Flint Hill Store to shop for traditional gifts, historic toys, fudge and goodies, and hand-crafted items made on-site in the Historic Village. It’s the perfect time to bring the whole family out to enjoy all that the museum has to offer. Kids Free Days are sponsored by ESL. Learn more: https://www.gcv.org/events/kids-free-day/ Summer Sunset Concert Series GCV&M’s Summer Sunset Series continues on Friday, September 2, with The SkyCats. Visitors will enjoy live music from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. This series presents a rare opportunity to enjoy the museum grounds after-hours and watch as the sun sets over Flint Hill and

Explore New York State’s musical roots during Fiddlers’ Fair & Making Music Weekend, August 27and 28. enjoy a meal from the Depot Grill. The Freight House Pub and deck will be open for drinks and the Depot Restaurant will be open for dinner, snacks, and ice cream. These events are sponsored by Mercury Print Productions. Learn more and purchase tickets at https://www.gcv.org/events/summer-sunset-series/ Fiddlers’ Fair & Making Music Weekend The museum will dig into the country’s musical roots during Fiddlers’ Fair & Making Music Weekend on Saturday and Sunday, August 27 and 28. Visitors will enjoy an extraordinary musical experience that brings together musicians on multiple stages for a weekend of non-stop entertainment. Explore the influence of Irish musical stylings brought to New York State by laborers on the Erie Canal, meet a luthier crafting stringed instruments on site and learn about his process, listen to a song series focused on the history of the Underground Railroad, and more. Settle in to hear the variety of performers, enjoy food and drinks, explore the Historic Village, and spend the day immersed in live musical performances. This event is sponsored by National Grid and WXXI. Learn more and purchase tickets at https://www.gcv.org/events/ making-music-weekend/ Historical happenings every day Visitors to GCV&M this season will find something fascinating happening around the Historic Village on any day. Meander through expertly tended heirloom gardens and orchards, explore historic kitchens and see 19th-century cooking in action, meet heirloom breeds on the Pioneer Farmstead, enjoy a historical craft beer in the Freight House Pub, chat with knowledgeable costumed interpreters working on trades like coopering, blacksmithing, or weaving, and so much more.

Kids Free Days are back on Thursdays in August, offering free admission to GCV&M for kids 12 years and younger.

Explorations in nature The Genesee Country Village & Museum’s Nature Center and its surrounding miles of nature trails are open to the public for explorations into the flora, fauna, and geological character of the Genesee Valley region. Plus, families can take advantage of a private fishing excursion to Oatka Creek (Sunday, August 21). continued on page 16

My Hometown August 2022 | 15

My Hometown Events

Summer fun at Genesee Country Village & Museum continued from page 15 Pre-registration is required. Learn more about booking a private fishing excursion at https://www.gcv.org/events/fishing-at-lakesurprise/ In John L. Wehle Gallery This month in the John L. Wehle Gallery, visitors have the opportunity to view a new exhibit, Duck, Duck, Shoot! The Story of American Waterbirds. In addition to exploring the new exhibit, visitors can still enjoy “Consuming Desires: The Great American Wedding” on display through the 2022 season in the Gallery, and can attend a series of curator- and guest speaker-led talks including “Sexing the Body: Garments as Gender Artifacts” with curator Brandon Brooks on Saturday, August 20, from 2 to 3 p.m. View a full list of this season’s Gallery talks and programs at https://www. gcv.org/john-l.-wehle-gallery-talks-tours/ Order 19th-century treats from the D.B. Munger & Co. Confectionery Online pre-orders of handmade 19th-century baked goods from museum’s Historic Confectionery are back this season. Visitors

can pre-order cookies, breads, and other confections online at https://www.gcv.org/explore/historic-village/d.b.-munger-confectionery/ and pick them up on select Saturdays from the Flint Hill Store. During the month of August, the Confectionery has Blueberry Hand Pies, Raspberry Preserves Star Bread, and Chelsea Buns. Museum visitors can also shop in the Confectionery on-site Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., as well as Thursdays in August during Kids Free Days.

Purchase tickets online in advance and save With a full schedule of special events on weekends, plus demonstrations and activities throughout the week, Genesee Country Village & Museum will be bustling with fun for all ages in August.

The museum is open Wednesdays through Sundays from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Purchase tickets online in advance to get early bird discount pricing – there is a small additional fee at the door for daily admission and special event tickets purchased day-of. Visit www. gcv.org to learn more and purchase tickets online.

Provided information and photos

My Hometown Schools

BBCSD creates Coordinator of Student Services position Byron-Bergen Central School District has created the new position of Coordinator of Student Services.

The position is designed to provide administrative support at the Elementary School in the areas of student discipline and curriculum development.

This position will also support special education and early intervention services by serving as a CSE and CPSE Chairperson.

“We identified an area to strengthen in our elementary school and are very pleased to have support from the Board of Education in the creation of this new position,” said Director of Instructional Services Betsy Brown. “We are also fortunate that, among a strong candidate pool, we were able to identify an individual to bring experience and passion to the position.”

On June 15, the Board of Education approved the nomination of Kaitlin Kaercher to the position.

Kaercher has worked at Byron-Bergen since 2016 as an elementary teacher for grades 1, 3, 4, 5, and 6. During the 2021-22 school year, she served as a Teacher on Special Assignment (TOSA) as the ELA Content Specialist and RTI Coordinator. She also Kaitlin Kaercher. Photo by Gretchen Spittler. coordinated the 2021 Summer Learning Program.

“I am thrilled that this is the next step in my career,” said Kaerch- Communications from SUNY Brockport and a Masters in Childer. “I get to do what I love, which is to support our students and hood Education from The College of Saint Rose in Albany. She is help them to be successful while they are here at Byron-Bergen. currently working toward a CAS in School Administration from I am excited to continue serving the students and families in our SUNY Brockport. Prior to 2016, Kaercher worked as a teacher in elementary school and working closely with our incredibly com- Brooklyn, NY, and as a staff writer and researcher for the New York mitted and talented faculty and staff.”

State Senate and Assembly. Outside of work she enjoys spending Kaercher holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Political Science and time with her family and is a life-long Buffalo Bills fan.

Provided information

16 | My Hometown August 2022

Watch For The Next Issue Of September 5, 2022 My Hometown August 2022 | 17

18 | My Hometown August 2022

My Hometown August 2022 | 19

Save Now On Hearing Aids Before End Of The Summer Price Increase Learn about the great improvement in

Rechargeable Hearing Aids No battery replacement necessary, only a daily charge.

100% Digital Hearing Aids All Styles, with an Extended 3 Year Warranty!

Includes orientation and follow and follow up adjustments.

ONLY

999.

$

REGULARLY $1800

ONLY Now available on both behind the ear and in the ear styles

At Ontario Hearing Center, we are dedicated to providing quality hearing services so you can enjoy life to the fullest.

Since 1956 we’ve provided timeless customer service with state-of-the-art hearing technology with innovative solutions for our client’s needs.

RECHARGEABLE

1299.

$

*Cannot be combined with other specials or discounts.

• Locally Owned for over 60 years • Hearing Tests • Hearing Aids • Tinnitus Treatment • Ear Molds • Experienced Audiologists • Most Insurances Accepted

The Ontario Team

Contact us to schedule your next visit with one of our knowledgeable team members!

www.ontariohearing.com 20 | My Hometown August 2022

785A Spencerport Rd. Rochester, NY 14606

247-4810