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Announcements

Speedy weeny dogs sought for annual race at Batavia Downs

By Billie Owens

Submitted photo (of some previous contestants and their handlers at the starting line) and press release:

Do you have a speedy Dachshund? That’s what Batavia Downs officials are wondering as they have announced registration opening for the Genesee Feeds 2016 dachshund (wiener) dog races to be held on Sunday afternoon, Aug. 28.

The wiener races that begin approximately 4:15 p.m. are the final event on its annual Family Fun Day at the Races at America’s oldest lighted harness racetrack.

All entered dogs receive a doggie gift bag courtesy of Genesee Feeds. The owners of all heat winners receive gaming free play, and the top three in the championship race, receive Clubhouse buffet certificates and free play for the gaming floor.

The winner’s total prize package including the gaming free play is valued at $200.

Dashing Dachshund owners wishing to participate should call Batavia Downs’ Wiener Dog Race coordinator Arna Tygart at 585-343-3750, ext. 6437, and leave a message. Staff will call back to confirm. The races are limited to the first 80 dogs that register. 

Global Big Latch On breastfeeding event set for Aug. 5 at Jerome Center, Batavia

By Billie Owens

Press release:

For the second year in a row, local health care organizations, Rochester Regional Health United Memorial Medical Center and Oak Orchard Health will be hosting an event for breastfeeding mothers that will attempt to break international records as well as raise awareness on the important health benefits of breastfeeding.

Pregnant women, breastfeeding mothers and their children are invited to attend the event that will be held from 9:30 a.m. to noon at the Jerome Center at 16 Bank St. in Batavia on Friday, Aug. 5.

It's part of the Global Big Latch On, a synchronized breastfeeding event that will include thousands of breastfeeding women and their babies/children across the world. In addition to the 10:30 a.m. count, the Latch On event at the Jerome Center will also have Foodlink’s Curbside Mobile Market, a baby clothing swap, refreshments, freebies, face painting, car seat check, and door prizes.

Anyone who wishes to donate gently used baby clothing for the swap can drop it off at Oak Orchard Health WIC at 314 Ellicott St. in Batavia by Aug. 4 or bring it to the event. Attendees can register at the event or pre-register at www.biglatchon.org

The Global Big Latch On was organized by the World Alliance for Breastfeeding Action as part of World Breastfeeding Week to raise awareness on the important health benefits of breastfeeding. Breastfeeding contributes to the normal growth and development of children, and children who are not breastfed are at increased risk of infant morbidity and mortality, adult obesity, diabetes, cardiovascular disease, osteoporosis, and premenopausal breast cancer and ovarian cancer.

The World Health Organization recommends breastfeeding exclusively for the first six months of a baby's life to optimize these benefits, continuing to breastfeed for 2 years and as long thereafter as is mutually desired by a woman and her child. World Breastfeeding Week will take place Aug. 1-7.

Nominations sought for 48th annual 'LeRoyan of the Year' award

By Billie Owens
Press release:
The American Legion Post 576 Le Roy is seeking nominations for the 48th annual LeRoyan of the Year award. Deadline is Aug. 26th.

The Botts Fiorito Legion Post is asking that each club, church, society and organization submit an applicant to be considered as the 2016 Le Royan of the Year.
The Le Royan Award Program honors a man, woman or child who exemplifies: 

1.  The true spirit of Americanism, its ideals, love of flag and country regardless of race, color or creed. 

2.  Good citizenship by carrying out these principles, often beyond that expected of him or her.

3.  Service to the community, signified by excellence in life of purpose and accomplishments.

Applications for the award can be picked up at the American Legion Home.

Mail applications to: 
American Legion Post 576 
Attn:  Jerry Diskin 
53 W. Main St. Le Roy, NY 14482 

Cornell extension to offer Master Gardener Training on Wednesday nights this fall, registration deadline is Aug. 26

By Billie Owens

Press release:

Cornell Cooperative Extension of Genesee County will be offering Master Gardener Training on from 6 to 9 on Wednesday evenings, starting Sept. 7 and running through Nov. 16. There will also be a full day on Saturday, Nov. 5. Classes will be held at the CCE office at 420 E. Main St., Batavia.

Each class will focus on a different horticulture topic throughout the training. By attending the Master Gardener training, you will become a more knowledgeable gardener.  Participants will learn about the following horticulture topics: botany, diagnosing plant diseases, entomology, soils & fertilizers, lawn care, herbs, vegetable gardening, weed identification, woody ornamentals, pruning, tree and small fruits, perennials and annuals, nuisance wildlife and organic gardening.

Anyone interested in learning more about gardening may attend the course. Pre-registration by Aug. 26 is required. Class size will be limited. No walk-ins will be accepted. The fee for this horticulture training is $225 per person, which includes all class sessions and materials, as well as the Cornell University Master Gardener Manual on CD.

If you have a passion for volunteering and gardening, this training is the first requirement to becoming a Genesee County Master Gardener. Graduates of the program (Genesee county residents) are then eligible to apply to become a Genesee County Master Gardener volunteer. (Other county residents should contact their local Master Gardener program.) A Master Gardener volunteer should have a willingness to give back to the community and help put into practice what they learned at training. Enthusiasm for sharing their skills and knowledge is a must.

For an informational brochure or to register contact Brandie Schultz at 585-343-3040, ext. 101, or stop by the Extension office located at 420 E. Main St. in Batavia.

Blue Devil Softball Pitching Camp offered Aug. 10-12 at BHS

By Billie Owens

Press release:

Whether you are just learning or have some experience on the mound, this camp is designed to take you to take the individual pitcher to the next level of performance. From beginner to advanced, camp members will be be able to refine their mechanics and gain new drills for individual pitches. Cost is $50.

Each pitcher must supply their own catcher.

For more information or to register, please contact Coach Kevin Walkowski at 716-983-5809.

WHAT: Blue Devil Softball Pitching Camp
WHEN: Aug. 10th - 12th from 9 a.m. - noon each day
WHERE: Batavia High School Softball Field, 260 State St., Batavia

High school participants wanted for GC Youth Lead Program, deadline to apply is Oct. 5

By Billie Owens

Press release:

The Genesee Community College’s Accelerated College Enrollment (ACE) Program and Genesee County Youth Bureau are partnering to offer Genesee County sophomores, juniors and seniors the Genesee County Youth Lead Program.  

We are currently recruiting our fifth class and are looking for 15 youth representing our nine high schools who would like to improve their leadership skills and expand their knowledge on the community and resources therein.

Genesee Youth Lead is designed to help our youth assess their strengths, weaknesses and potential for personal and intellectual growth. We provide the opportunity for students to develop their leadership skills by being a part of a team, the community and by hands on learning within the county. Last fall, students were able to take field trips, speak directly with government officials, and so much more.

The Youth Lead Program will take place at Genesee Community College & Genesee County Youth Bureau beginning Oct. 15th at GCC with a Meet & Greet and then class to follow.

The class sessions are 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturdays; Oct. 15, 22, 29; Nov. 5, 12, 19; Dec. 3 and 10.

The program will cost $55 and the students will earn one college credit through Genesee Community College. If there is an economic hardship please contact the Genesee County Youth Bureau.

The areas of the community to be explored during the fall program are Government & Law Enforcement, Health & Human Services, and Agriculture.

Applications for the program will only be accepted until Oct. 5th and can be found at: http://www.co.genesee.ny.us/departments/youthbureau/. Please contact Chelsea at the Genesee County Youth Bureau with questions at (585) 344-3960 or at Chelsea.Elliott@co.genesee.ny.us

Morganville pastor thanks donors who supported bike trip to raise money for Crossroads House

By Billie Owens

A letter from Pastor Jim Morasco, in submitted photo above, of the Morganville United Church of Christ:

I would like to thank all who contributed to my bike ride from Pittsburg to Washington, D.C., raising money for Crossroads House. Your prayers and thoughts of encouragement were warmly felt and supported me as I peddled in the heat and humidity. Together, so far, we raised over $600, and donations are still coming in.

Blessings to you all.

City resident wanted to fill vacancy on Board of Assessment Review

By Billie Owens

Press release:

The City of Batavia Board of Assessment Review currently has one position to fill. The term is a five-year term and will begin in October. The Batavia City Council is seeking a City resident who is interested in volunteering as a member of this committee and has knowledge of property values.

Residents interested in applying for this position can obtain a Committee/Board Volunteer Application from either the City Clerk’s Office or on the website at www.batavianewyork.com under Documents. The deadline to submit applications to the City Clerk’s Office is Aug. 15.

For further information, please contact the City Bureau of Assessment at 345-6301.

Assemblyman Hawley urges New Yorkers to wear blue this Friday in show of support for law enforcement

By Billie Owens

Press release:

Following a string of deadly shootings against law enforcement in Dallas and Baton Rouge, La., in recent weeks, Assemblyman Steve Hawley (R,C,I-Batavia) has reiterated his full support of law enforcement and is encouraging New Yorkers to wear blue on Friday in a massive wave of support for police officers.

Hawley emphasized the need for unity in these frightening times and inspired constituents to stand behind those who put their lives on the line to protect us each day.

“The recent attacks against police officers in Dallas and Baton Rouge have been nothing short of tragic and a painful reflection of the evil that still exists in society,” Hawley said. “In these tumultuous times, the best solution is to come together and show our support for the men and women who put on their uniform every day not knowing what dangers they will inevitably face.

"They are the frontline protectors of justice and order in our community and deserve nothing short of our utmost gratitude and respect. Please join me in recognizing the heroism of our police officers and participate in ‘Our Blue Day’ on Friday by wearing blue in support of our friends fighting crime. They need our encouragement and backing now more than ever.”

Western NY Independent Living seeks experts on seniors to speak at Buffalo convention in September

By Billie Owens

Press release:

Western New York Independent Living, Inc., (WNYIL), which has an office in Batavia, will be holding its third Biannual Summit on Aging and Independence: “Shaping Health and Wellness for the Future” on Sept. 29-30 at the Buffalo Convention Center, and they need knowledgeable people to share their expertise.

WNYIL is recruiting individuals who work with seniors, OR who are part of an organization, business or service providing support to individuals who are over 55 years old, OR are doing research specifically focused on the senior population, to participate as presenters, as plenary speakers, or in panels or interactive workshops. There is no charge to make a presentation, which is limited to 75-minutes long, and those accepted will be given breakfast or lunch.

The purpose of the Summit is to identify and reveal critical efforts, ideas, research and issues related to aging, independence, wellness and change, but it also affords participants a great opportunity to represent and exchange knowledge regarding concepts, programs, services, trends, etc., which can impact individuals who are in the 55+ group.

To be considered, would-be presenters should prepare a proposal that fits one of these categories: Practical and scholarly work on issues important to aging populations; Lecture-style presentations; Hands-on workshops or simulations; Presentations on or by community groups that interact with aging populations; Presentations by students on aging-related course assignments or volunteer work; Panel Discussions; and Interactive Workshops.

While proposals can involve any appropriate topic, some potential areas are: Health Care Provision; Managed Long-Term Care; Assistive Technology Advances; Gerontology; Care-giving; Research; Independent Living; Public Policy or Systems Advocacy; Healthy Lifestyles; Cultural Diversity; New Trends; or Outcomes. The Summit is divided into five tracks to appeal to the perspectives of different attendees: Service providers or advocates; healthcare professionals; consumers; caregivers; or researchers/educators.

The intended audience should be identified in the proposals, which will be scored by the Steering Committee based on how well they address the content area, plus clarity, objectives, method of presentation, likely interest to participants, and overall program balance.

For more information, and to request Proposal Guidelines and application forms, please call Heather at (716) 836-0822, ext. 146, or Katie at ext.166, and we will be happy to assist you! Applications are due by Aug. 15 to WNY Independent Living, Inc. – Summit on Aging, 3108 Main St., Buffalo, NY 14214, or to hmattiuzzo@wnyil.org. Those accepted will be notified by Sept. 1.

The Western New York Independent Living, Inc., family of agencies offer an expanding array of services to aid individuals with disabilities to take control of their own lives.

City police officers and firefighters team up to promote children's bicycle safety at Lambert Park

By Billie Owens

Submitted photo and press release:

The City of Batavia Police along with the City of Batavia Fire Deptartment conducted a Bicycle Safety Program at Lambert Park on Wednesday. It is located at 100 Verona Ave.

Several children had their bikes inspected and licensed. Children were also instructed in the proper use of bikes on the roadway. Free helmets were supplied courtesy of the Batavia Lions Club and a New York State Grant supplied via the City of Batavia Fire Department.

Microchipping to be offered at Hogs for Paws at Stan's Harley Davidson on Aug. 13

By Billie Owens

Information provided by Volunteers for Animals:

Volunteers For Animals will be offering a microchip clinic during Hogs for Paws at Stan's Harley Davidson from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturday, Aug. 13th. The motorcycle dealership is located at 4425 W. Saile Drive in the Town of Batavia.

Cost of microchipping is $30 per animal, which includes the injection, a collar ID tag and national registration. Accepted payment is either cash or checks (made out to Volunteers For Animals), sorry no credit cards. No preregistration necessary.

Each dog or cat must be accompanied by someone who can control it. Cats MUST be in carriers. You will need an email address for registration purposes. Free registration is done through FoundAnimals.org

What is a microchip?
The microchip is a tiny computer chip which has an identification number programmed into it and is encapsulated within a biocompatible material. The whole device is small enough to fit inside a hypodermic needle and can be simply injected under the skin of our pets, where it will stay for the life of the animal.

This provides a permanent, positive identification which cannot be lost, altered or intentionally removed - a safe, simple and inexpensive way to protect your pet against loss or theft. The computer memory in the microchip contains a unique number -- no two animals will ever have the same number. A radio signal is used to read this number through the skin of your pet. It is routine for animal shelters and veterinarian offices to scan pets for microchips.

Real stories about local pets...

Molly the dog, pictured right, was found in Oakfield after being missing for TWO YEARS. After setting traps, leaving food and lots of patience, they were finally able to catch this bedraggled pooch.

Molly was taken to the Genesee County Animal Shelter and that is when they found she was microchipped.

They called the owner and gave her the incredible news that her dog who had ran away two years ago was at the Shelter. It was quite a reunion which never would have happened had Molly not been microchipped.

Microchips talk for animals when collars and tags go missing.

Chevy was a stray cat, pictured left, that came into the Shelter from Summit Street in the City of Batavia.

She had been on her own throughout the winter. She had a BB lodged in her side and patches of fur missing, most likely from a car engine fan.

She was posted for adoption on our website and within days her family spotted her on the website. They came into the Shelter and sure enough it was her. They lived a block away on Tracy Avenue.

Chevy had bolted from the house in the fall. They were lucky in many ways: the nice person on Summit took her to the vet for her care and brought her to the Shelter and they spotted her on the website.

Had Chevy been microchipped, the folks at the shelter could have found her family more quickly without risk of her being adopted by someone else. Even house cats need to be microchipped!

Summer Kick Off Classic Horse Show a hit with exhibitors, says GC Ag Society

By Billie Owens

Press release:

An inaugural series of three shows recently sponsored by the Genesee County Agricultural Society was a big success for organizers and exhibitors alike, according to the Genesee County Agriculture Society.

The Summer Kick Off Classic Horse Show series was held at the Genesee County Fairgrounds, on Route 5 in Batavia. Exhibitors came from all over Western New York and as far as Auburn, Grand Island, Franklinville and Angola.

Attendance at the first show, held on Father’s Day, was good, but not as good as what would follow on the July 4th holiday weekend. Shows held on July 2nd and 3rd made for the first-ever two-day open horse show to be held at the fairgrounds. Ample parking, camper hookups and superb food service kept exhibitors and spectators happy, while excellent footing and roomy box stalls in a bright and airy barn kept the horses content.  

Generous show sponsors helped organizers provide fantastic prizes, including series end Grand Champion belt buckles. Vendors provided a great shopping experience during the show as well, with giftware, tack and grooming products available for purchase. A professional show photographer was on the grounds and did an excellent job capturing beautiful memories for exhibitors. 

Professional judges, unique prizes, and friendly office staff helped to make the series a success. Before the shows were even complete, local trainers and exhibitors were asking for more dates to be added to the calendar.

The Genesee County Agricultural Society members, all volunteers, have worked hard at upkeep and improvements at the grounds. Next year’s shows promise to be even better, with more upgrades to facilities in the works. If you didn’t join us this year, plan on adding a trip to the shows next year. And if you did join us this year, we’re glad you came and thank you for your support and sportsmanship -- you made the shows the grand success that they were! 

For more event highlights, to view the professional photos taken at the show, and to keep informed about future events, be sure to “like” Summer Kick Off Classic Horse Show” on Facebook and/or provide your contact information to boldt2@yahoo.com.

Award Highlights:

Series Grand Champion Open:  Dona Scharping, Serenity Lonesome Cruz

Series Reserve Grand Champion Open:  Selah Lowery, Another Legacy

 

Series Grand Champion Open Walk-Jog/Trot:  Tammy Gavenda, LGF Just Too Ironic

Reserve:  Denise Willard, Lopin Loud & Lazy

 

Series Grand Champion Youth:  Emily Boldt, Zips Roan Ranger

Reserve:  Kailey Kalet, Inspired to Win

 

Series Grand Champion Youth Walk Jog/Trot:  Miranda Gallo, JDS Jackie B Smooth

Reserve:  Samuel Grimmelt, Too Easy to Zip

 

Champion English Horse:  Inspired to Win, Kailey Kalet

Champion Western Horse:  Serenity Lonesome Cruz, Dona Scharping

Super Horse:  JDS Jackie B Smooth

Sportsmanship Award:  Tim Jones, Two Eyed Te Catalina

 

Sweepstakes Winners:

Hunter Under Saddle:  Inspired to Win, Kailey Kalet

English Pleasure:   Mocha, Lizzie Storm

Walk-Trot English Pleasure:  Rosabelle, Charlotte Saraceni

Ranch Riding:  Gretas Red Jet, Emma Klaver

Western Pleasure:  Zips Roan Ranger, Emily Boldt

Trail:  Zips Roan Ranger, Emily Boldt

Walk Jog/Trot Trail:  Lopin Loud N Lazy, Denise Willard

Walk Jog Western Pleasure:  Gotta Be Him, Paige Klotzbach

Showmanship:  I Wanna Rock, Cassy Platko

'Kingdom Omega' Vacation Bible Camp for ages 5-11 to be held July 23 at Alexander United Methodist Church

By Billie Owens

Alexander United Methodist Church is holding the "Kingdom Omega" Vacation Bible Camp for ages 5 to 11 on Saturday, July 23. It's free and runs from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. and a Royal Family Ice Cream Gala will be served afterward.

"A royally fun time awaits you!"

Cordially invited are little knights, princesses and young nobles to this place "where kids stand strong in the battle for Truth." The church is located at 10540 Main St. in Alexander. To find out more about this regal event, phone 591-1765.

Professional education and skills training offered for drug and alcohol abuse recovery coaches and advocates

By Billie Owens

Press release:

Genesee/Orleans Council on Alcoholism & Substance Abuse (GCASA) has teamed with Meaningful Trainings to offer the first, single-source professional education and skills development course of study for Recovery Coaches and Certified Recovery Peer Advocates (CRPA) in New York State.

Registrations for fall are now being accepted.

GCASA is a leader in community resource building for addiction education, prevention, treatment and recovery services throughout Western New York. The GCASA Recovery Learning Campus offers more than 95 NY Certification Board (NYCB), NY Certification Association (NYCA) and OASAS-approved education hours for the following credentialing requirements:

Certified Addiction Recovery Coach (CARC) – initial & renewal

Certified Recovery Peer Advocate (CRPA) – initial & renewal

CASAC -- renewal

CPP/CPS -- initial & renewal

“As the landscape shifts nationally, GCASA is committed to being a leader and Advocate throughout Western New York and the Eastern United States, for the elevation and utilization of recovery, recovery coaching and Recovery Oriented System of Care (ROSC), says John Bennett, executive director.

“This initiative addresses the need for an easily-accessible, consistent, self-paced, durable resource for organizations and individuals dedicated to the preservation of proven peer principles and practices, who seek to support pathways of recovery and wellness for those they serve.

“We have also finalized dates for the launch of our Recovery Leadership Collaborative, a unique opportunity for organizational leaders to develop much-needed infrastructure (supervisory, HR, etc.) and capacity (skills/tactics) to support peer Recovery Coaches/CRPAs, employees and volunteers. We’ve invited a variety of recovery thought leaders from around the country to come to Batavia share their experiences and practical advice in terms of ROSC development.

"At the same time, we’ll host Meaningful Trainings’ Effective Supervision for Recovery Coaches/CRPAs workshop, a three-day experiential learning opportunity. Our state leaders, rightly so, dedicate much time and energy to facilitating economic growth, yet as the number one health challenge facing each and every community across New York State, substance use and addiction work in direct opposition to these economic development efforts.

"Communities will only realize the opportunities of economic development if they are healthy. Therefore, it is GCASA’s goal to offer resources to any community seeking to nurture a recovery mindset and/or to create a fully functional Recovery Oriented System of Care.”

Beginning Aug. 4-5, and continuing throughout the year, the GCASA Recovery Learning Campus will offer the nationally recognized Connecticut Community for Addiction Recovery (CCAR) suite of workshops – Recovery Coach Academy, Spirituality, Ethical Considerations –  along with Meaningful Trainings Recovery Professional Series – MAT/MSR, Self-Care, Recovery Capital, Effective Communications & A(a)dvocacy – for Recovery Coaches & CRPAs.

Information on course listings, dates, times and fees can be found here.

Information on The Recovery Leadership Collaborative: Practical Perspectives - A National Discussion Supporting Recovery Coach/Peer Supervision can be found here.

Bicycle safety program offered at city parks on Wednesdays this summer

By Billie Owens

Press release:

Batavia Police along with the Batavia Fire Department and the Batavia Lions Club are presenting a bicycle safety program to the City of Batavia Parks programs.

Each Wednesday during the summer the police and fire departments will be visiting a park in the City of Batavia where the Batavia Youth Bureau hosts children recreation programs. Remaining dates are: July 13, 20, 27 and Aug. 3.

Officers will instruct the children on the proper rules of the road for riding a bike and then supervise them through a simulated road course. The fire department inspects bikes and advises the children on the proper care of their bikes.

Along with training, helmets are offered to children who register their bikes or are in need of a helmet. The bike helmets are provided by a grant from the Batavia Lions Club as well as a NYS Grant received by the Batavia Fire Department. The Helmets were purchased by Adam Miller Toy and Bicycle, of Batavia, at a reduced rate. Adam Miller Toy and Bicycle has also donated its time to help fit children’s helmets for this program.

To find out times and specific parks and dates call the Batavia Youth Bureau at 345-6421.

REMINDER: Basketball Camp at BHS July 18-22 for boys & girls in grades 3-8

By Billie Owens

Press release:

A 2016 Summer Basketball Camp will be held July 18-22 in the Batavia High School Auxiliary Gym. 

It will be held from 9 a.m. to noon Monday-Friday.

The camp is open to boys and girls entering grades 3-8 in the fall. Cost of the camp is $65 and includes a camp T-shirt. Participants are asked to bring their own basketball every day and have their name on it.

The camp will feature Coach Jim Fazio, Batavia Jr. Blue Devil Youth Director, coaching intern Antwain Richardson, youth coaches, and current and former Blue Devil players.

Camp benefits: The camp will focus on the offensive fundamentals of the game including shooting, passing, dribbling, and ball handling, with a major emphasis on shooting. Sportsmanship, fair play, and safety will be emphasized all week. There will be daily contests with full and half court games.

Batavia City Schools are not responsible for injury that may happen during camp. Please enter and exit the high school in the front circle.

Contact info: jfazio@gvboces.org    585-356-0901

Make checks payable to: Batavia Boys Basketball Boosters.

Mail to: Jim Fazio 5190 Ellicott Street Road, Batavia, NY 14020.

Also, provide this information:

  • Name
  • Address
  • Town
  • Age
  • Grade entering in Fall
  • School
  • Phone #
  • Medical concerns
  • T-shirt size (Youth S-XL; Adult S-XL)
  • Parent/Guardian signature

Independent Living teams up with arts group to offer opportunities to artists with disabilities

By Billie Owens

Press release:

Batavia’s premier consumer-run human service and advocacy agency for people with disabilities, Independent Living of the Genesee Region (ILGR), is “art partnering for the disabled” with the University Heights Arts Association (UHAA), a group of artists in North Buffalo with a commitment to community that places art in businesses and nonprofits through an established Art Partnering program.

Having the stated purpose of showing that “art is for everyone irrespective of disability”, the groups’ “ARTiculations Ability Exhibitions promote the inclusion of artists and audiences with disabilities into the rich network of exhibitions offered throughout Western New York."

The program provides opportunities for artists with disabilities living in Genesee, Wyoming and Orleans counties to enter works for jurying (judging), which meet criteria such as medium, framing, size, wall-hanging hardware, etc. Those accepted will be displayed in ILGR’s office at 113 Main St., Suite 5, in Batavia, in quarterly solo and group exhibitions.

If they wish, artists can offer the works for sale at the end of the exhibition, and retain all proceeds, but they are not required to sell their works to participate. Neither of the sponsoring organizations will be charging the artists to enter.

Artists must email photographs of at least three different artworks to fineart@uhartsgroup.com to be considered; dates and times will be arranged for the accepted works to be dropped off, and then retrieved after the exhibition closes.

Artists will be welcome to participate in an annual reception at ILGR for all the ARTiculations Ability Exhibitions that have taken place that year. For more information, or to request a prospectus with the criteria and an entry form, call Donna at (585) 815-8501, ext. 411.

STOP-DWI Night at the Ballpark is July 15, with fireworks, chance to win a bike, and more

By Billie Owens

From left, Bill Sheron, Genesee County undersheriff; Matt Landers, STOP-DWI coordinator; Jocelyn Sikorski, STOP-DWI board chair; and John Roche, owner of Adam Miller Toy and Bicycle.

(Submitted photo and press release.)

Come on down to the Batavia Muckdogs game and enjoy a safe summer night with us! STOP-DWI Night at the Ballpark is happening on Friday, July 15, gates opening at 6 p.m. The Batavia Muckdogs will play the Aberdeen Ironbirds.

NYS STOP-DWI, Genesee County STOP-DWI and the Genesee County Youth Bureau are sponsoring this evening. There are giveaways for the first 500 who enter the gate, and several interactive booths for families and children to visit including: Sheriff’s K-9 Officer, City Police, Le Roy Police, Probation and the STOP-DWI display.

A grand prize giveaway, a youth bike, sponsored by Adam Miller Toy and Bicycle, will be on display and a winning ticket drawn that evening. So join us for a great night at the ballpark and the Friday night fireworks!

Independent Living helps Batavia couple with disabilities to replace bad section of roof with grant from Home Depot

By Billie Owens

Press release:

Independent Living of the Genesee Region (ILGR) is delighted to have played a role in replacing a portion of a residential roof whose leaks had caused heavy damage to the home’s kitchen, its furnishings, floor and electrical system, and created a mold problem.

The potential ultimate consequence could have been the collapse of that part of the home. Wishing to remain anonymous, both the husband, a military veteran, and his wife, who volunteers at ILGR, have disabilities that prevent their working, and left them without means to repair it themselves.

The couple had sought assistance from various programs, without being able to qualify for them. But ILGR staff connected them to the Community Impact Grant Program (CIGP) of the Home Depot Foundation, which helps improve existing homes or buildings, with the involvement of an IRS-registered tax-exempt public service organization, and with the actual work to be done by volunteers from the community.

Once they were approved in December, the Foundation provided a $2,000 gift card, which purchased materials for the highest priority repair, the roof, to stop the leaks and ongoing damage, and also some electrical wiring. The “sweat equity” was provided by relatives and friends of the family who had some skills in home building, and recently completed the roof work.

The family is looking into used cabinets and kitchen furnishings, and is saving up their limited funds for work on the next priorities, repairing the damaged floor and electrical system, and remediation of the mold. They are very grateful for the kindness of the Home Depot Foundation, the support of friends, and the initiative of the staff at ILGR, which enabled them to have a home that is becoming increasingly livable.

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