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Stephen’s Table soup kitchen closing after 26 years of serving the community

By Virginia Kropf

Photo: Ed and Bev Corcoran, of Batavia, relax in their home, where he is recuperating from surgery. After running Stephen’s Table at the Assembly of God on North Spruce Street for 26 years, health issues have forced the couple to shut the soup kitchen down. Photo by Virginia Kropf.

Ed Corcoran is the first to admit he isn’t a chef, and when he stepped up to run Stephen’s Table at Batavia Assembly of God Church, he didn’t know how to boil water.

Twenty-six years and more than 250,000 meals later, Ed, 75, and his wife Bev, 72, have been forced to close the soup kitchen, after he suffered a fall in May and required brain surgery.

Stephen’s Table was an idea of a late member of the Batavia Assembly of God Church, who asked Ed to help him. After meeting with attorneys to complete the required paperwork and discovering he wouldn’t be paid to run the soup kitchen, the other man backed out and Ed was left “holding the bag.”

 With Bev’s help and plenty of donations from the community, Ed started making soup.

“Soup and sandwich was the thing people wanted most,” Bev said. “And we served a beverage and dessert. A lot of people came because they liked to joke with Ed.”

Ed developed a camaraderie with those he served, feeding not only their stomachs but their souls. Joking back and forth was as much a part of lunch as the soup.

The soup kitchen was a haven for the homeless. Some would come in the morning just to get out of the cold, and sit and have coffee and donuts while Ed cooked.

“At one time Batavia had 45 homeless, and we saw most of them,” Ed said. “It’s heartbreaking to think we had to close the kitchen.”

Stephen’s Table was open for lunch Monday through Friday and most days attendance averaged between 20 and 30. Once, they served 90, Bev said.

“We always had enough food,” Bev said. “God always provided.”

The Corcorans praised the community who supported them with donations of food – local churches, BJs, Walmart, Tops, Pizza Hut and bread stores. Then there were farmers and just people in general who brought in fresh fruits and vegetables.

In the beginning, there was just Ed and Bev, but gradually more people started volunteering to help. In the summer, a lot of youth would come to help. Genesee Justice sent people who had to do community service; GCASA sent their people; for years individuals from the ARC were sent to help.

For the past 17 years, Stephen’s Table has partnered with the Genesee County Office for the Aging’s RSVP program.

“Ed and Bev’s volunteer service this past year alone was more than 1,800 hours,” said Courtney Iberi from the OFA. “Since partnering with RSVP, Ed has volunteered more than 23,000 hours and Bev almost 9,000 hours.”

One of the RSVP volunteers was Tim Tracz, who started helping at Stephen’s Table after he retired from Corrections a year and a half ago.

“I always enjoyed working with the elderly and became a driver for Meals on Wheels,” Tracz said. “When I still had a little more time to give, I asked Courtney what I could do and she told me about Stephen’s Table.”

Tracz said it was amazing to find anyone like the Corcorans who would volunteer for 26 years.

“I saw the dignity with which Ed treated the elderly, the poor, the substance abuser and the mentally ill,” Tracz said. “He and Bev just concentrated on serving the meals, and relationships developed.”

He said this was a story, not only of Ed and Bev, but of the community whose support made it possible and Assembly of God Church which allowed use of the building.

Ed said their agreement with Assembly of God called for rent of $1 per year.

“Basically, we had use of the kitchen for nothing,” Ed said.

Tracz recalled a man named Clarence who used to come to the soup kitchen, not for a meal, but for a place to go. He would come in and just start singing the “good old songs.”

Then there was “Bo.”

“He came more than he needed to because it gave him hope and fulfillment,” Tracz said. “People who came to Stephen’s Table knew they weren’t going to be asked for a donation and nobody was going to preach to them.”

Tracz said volunteering for RSVP at the soup kitchen proved to him, “You certainly get more than you give.”

The Corcorans said no one was ever turned away from Stephen’s Table, as long as they behaved. Only once in 26 years did they have to have two people removed for creating a disturbance.

They will cherish the memories of those they served all those years, such as the homeless man who was so cold he couldn’t carry his bowl of soup. Or the time five teenagers who came in and said they were homeless, having left home because their parents were so into drugs they couldn’t stand it.

The Corcorans are hopeful the poor and homeless will find help at other agencies, such as The Salvation Army.

“I know there is food available to the needy, but not a prepared meal and the companionship,” Bev said. “But with Ed’s health, we couldn’t think of keeping the soup kitchen open.”

Ed and Bev said they always figured they would keep going as long as the volunteers and donations didn’t stop.

“We never thought an injury would stop us,” Bev said.

Editor's Note: Click on the links below for previous coverage about the Corcorans:

Sponsored Post: Crossroads House Annual Garage Sale is July 26-28

By Lisa Ace


This year features more than 6,000 square feet of covered tent and garage space loaded with merchandise. Pictured above are some of our featured items including a handpainted bedroom set from the 1800s (Middleport, NY); and an antique marble top dressing table with mirror featuring all Knapp joints (1870-1900).
 
We have furniture for every budget and taste, modern to antique. Sofas, loveseats, recliners, tables, etc. Housewares galore, collectibles, glassware, antiques, small appliances, brand-new items and more. Items will be replenished throughout the sale, so plan to come each day on School Street behind Ficarella's Pizzeria in Batavia. We will have a preview day again this year on Wednesday, July 25th, from 9 a.m. to noon. There is a $10 admission for that day only and prices will be firm.
 
We will have our expanded, later hours on Thursday and Friday where we will be open from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday we will have a special one price box sale from 9 a.m. to noon. Buy a box for one low price and fill it to the top!
 
As always, hot dogs and drinks will be available for purchase Thursday and Friday, courtesy of the First Baptist Church There are bargains and buys for everyone and 100 percent of the proceeds will help us continue to be a gift TO the community made possible BY the community. For more information on the sale, please click here to visit us online.

Community Action seeks golfers and sponsors for its annual Angels in Action Golf Tournament

By Billie Owens

Press release:

Community Action of Orleans & Genesee, sponsored by Turnbull Heating and Air, is hosting its annual Angels in Action Golf Tournament on Sunday, Aug. 5th, at Hickory Ridge Country Club in Fancher.

*Golfers and sponsors are needed!  

Price for golfing (including cart, lunch, buffet dinner) is only $70!  

Donations of products and/or services are also graciously accepted for our raffle.  

Please join us for a fun filled day with raffles, prizes, food and FUN!

Please call Lisa at 585-343-7798, ext. 116, or Michelle at 585-589-5605.

Proceeds benefit Emergency Services Programs in both Genesee and Orleans counties. Thank you for your support.

*P.S. -- Also Needed:

Community Action of Orleans & Genesee is in need of recycled plastic bags!  

Please bring your recycled bags (no holes and clean) to Community Action at 5073 Clinton Street Road Batavia.

Thank you!

Golfers wanted to tee up for Chef Russell Memorial Golf Tournament that benefits two local charities

By Billie Owens
Press release:
 
We are looking for golfers for our 11th Annual Chef Russell Memorial Golf Scramble set for Sunday, Aug. 12th, at the Batavia Country Club. Alex's Place sponsors this event and it will benefit Crossroads House and the Chef Russell Bugbee Scholarship.
 
For those who have not played in this tournament before, Colleen Kemp does an amazing job putting together a fantastic afternoon with great people, prizes, and drink specials.
 
Deadline for registration is Aug. 1.
 
It is one of the rare weekend golf tournaments out there and spaces fill up fast (we limit it to 128 golfers). Please consider putting together a foursome (we can also put teams together for you if you have less) for a great time, a great charity and a great scholarship opportunity.
 
Crossroads House -- is a comfort care home that serves the residents of Genesee and Wyoming counties who have been medically determined to be in their last stages of life.  It is an alternative to a hospital or nursing home when care can no longer be provided in the patient’s own home. Crossroads is an incorporated not-for-profit organization that provides service free of charge.
 
The Chef Russell Bugbee Scholarship is awarded as a tribute to Chef Russell, who we tragically lost in October 2010. The scholarship will be awarded to an area high school graduate that is not only pursuing an education in the culinary field, but also has the drive and passion that Chef Russell had for the culinary arts.
 
Also note that Hole Sponsorships are available for $150 each. Proceeds will go to Crossroads House and the Chef Russell Bugbee Scholarship.
 
Last year we raised nearly $10,000 toward these two great causes! 

Thank you for considering!

WHERE: Batavia Country Club
WHEN:  Sunday, Aug. 12th
TIME: Shotgun start at 1 p.m. Registration and festivities to begin at 12 p.m.
PRICE: $95 per golfer for registration
 
Includes:
  • 18 holes of golf at BCC with cart
  • Grilled lunch with draft beer and soda at registration
  • Beverage service throughout the tournament including beer specials
  • Buffet Dinner
  • Prizes, Skins and 50/50
  • Giveaways and goody bags for all!

GRAND PRIZE: Three-night stay at Captain Pip's Marina & Hideaway, with one-day boat rental and snorkeling for two from Spirit Snorkeling, in beautiful Marathon, Fla.!

Send payment via check or credit card for tournament registration and/or hole sponsorship -- with golfers' names and/or organization and contact person, addresses, emails and phone numbers -- to:

Alex's Place

c/o  Colleen Kemp

8322 Park Place

Batavia, NY 14020

(FAX: 585-219-4303)

(If paying by credit card, include name on card, card number, expiration date, amount to be charged on paper with your signature.)

Matty


Matthew Gray
Alex's Place
Managing Partner

Buffalo Brothers
Marketing Manager

Office for the Aging and Kohl’s team up to deliver flowers to GC seniors in Meals on Wheels program

By Billie Owens

Above photo of Kohl's volunteers who helped deliver flowers to seniors in Genesee County, from left: Dar Moleski, Corde Smart and Andrea Osewalt-Renz. Not pictured: Jeffrey DeMare.

Press release and submitted photos:

Beautiful bouquets of flowers were hand delivered to more than 80 Meals on Wheels recipients this week, creating a wave of surprise and an abundance of smiles across Genesee County. An individual called to express her gratitude, saying the gesture had made her week.

The Office for the Aging and the RSVP Volunteer Placement Program are pleased to have partnered with the Kohl’s Batavia store for Kohl’s Cares Associates in Action. 

Five local employees volunteered their morning to help bring joy to area older adults. Additionally, Kohl’s Corporation will make a monetary donation to the Genesee Senior Foundation to further support programming for residents 60 and older, their caregivers and younger individuals with disabilities.

The special flower delivery was made possible through the generosity of a private donation, specifically to benefit the lives of our more homebound residents. Anyone interested in donating is encouraged to do so through the Genesee Senior Foundation, a nonprofit affiliated with the Office for the Aging.

Please call Dorian Ely, Services Coordinator at 343-1611 to learn more about charitable donations to the Foundation.

The Office for the Aging wishes to thank everyone involved in making this day special, including staff and volunteers from Kohl’s, OFA, RSVP and the ARC Culinary Program.

Photo below is Doreen Wright, the woman who coordinated the flower-delivery effort between Kohl’s and the Office for the Aging.

Tacos for Toys to benefit Don R. Carroll Toys for Kids is Saturday at Adam Miller

By Billie Owens
To celebrate 100 years in business, Adam Miller Toy and Bicycle is hosting a food event on Saturday, June 30, with all proceeds benefitting Don R. Carroll Toys for Kids.
 
"Tacos for Toys" will be held at Adam Miller from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Donations of $1 per taco suggested.
 
The store is located at 8 Center St. in Downtown Batavia.
 
"Help us celebrate -- stop by and grab some tacos!" says owner John Roche.
 

More than $9K raised by city firefighters in Fill the Boot campaign for MDA

By Billie Owens

From city fire and an MDA press release:

The Batavia City Firefighters IAFF Local 896 is proud to announce that the community raised $9,104.17 for the MDA, according to Firefighter Chris Morasco.

"That is the total for today’s boot drive combined with the 'traveling boots' that are always on display around town," he said.

The annual fundraising campaign helps kids and adults with muscular dystrophy, ALS and related muscle-debilitating diseases to live longer and grow stronger.

Continuing a more than 60-year tradition, dedicated fire fighters from Batavia City Firefighters IAFF Local 896 hit the streets or storefronts with boots in hand asking pedestrians, motorists, customers and other passersby to make a donation to MDA today at the intersections of Main Street (Route 5) and Court Street, and at Ellicott Street (Route 63) and Court Street.

"The dedication of these firefighters to MDA’s mission is unwavering, spending countless hours both with Fill the Boot and MDA Summer Camp to care for the kids and adults in the Buffalo and Greater Rochester Area," said MDA fundraising coordinator Alicia Sinicropi.

Funds raised through Buffalo and Greater Rochester Fill the Boot events in 2018 empower families who inspire everyday Americans to help kids and adults with Muscular dystrophy and related muscle-debilitating diseases live longer and grow stronger, displaying how we all can truly live unlimited no matter what limits we may face.

Contributions also help fund groundbreaking research and life-enhancing programs such as state-of-the-art support groups and Care Centers, including the MDA Care Center at Dent Neurologic Institute Amherst and Orchard Park, Buffalo General Medical Center and Strong Memorial Hospital in Rochester.

They also help send more than 60 local kids to “the best week of the year” at MDA summer camp at Rotary Sunshine Campus – all at no cost to their families.

MDA and IAFF Partnership

As MDA’s largest national partner, the IAFF fuels MDA's mission to find research breakthroughs across diseases; care for kids and adults from day one; and provide families with services and support.

IAFF support for MDA began in 1954 when the organization committed by proclamation to support MDA until a cure is found, and the organization's unwavering commitment to MDA has remained strong to this day. The IAFF raised $100,000 for MDA in 1955, and $1 million in 1970, and fire fighters continue to raise the bar in their fundraising efforts. In 2017, more than100,000 fire fighters participated in Fill the Boot events across the country and raised $24 million. To date the IAFF has raised $630 million for MDA.

About the IAFF
The International Association of Fire Fighters represents more than 300,000 professional fire fighters and paramedics who protect 85 percent of the nation’s population. More than 3,200 affiliates and their members protect communities in every state in the United States and in Canada.

About MDA
MDA is leading the fight to free individuals — and the families who love them — from the harm of muscular dystrophy, ALS and related muscle-debilitating diseases that take away physical strength, independence and life. We use our collective strength to help kids and adults live longer and grow stronger by finding research breakthroughs across diseases; caring for individuals from day one; and empowering families with services and support in hometowns across America.

GLOW YMCA exceeds fund-raising goal in second year of record-breaking support

By Billie Owens

Press release:

The GLOW YMCA on Tuesday announced a second year of record-breaking support as they raised just over $106,000 in its annual Strong Communities Campaign, exceeding a $104,000 association goal.

“We had so much incredible support," said Rob Walker, CEO of the GLOW YMCA. "We couldn’t have done it without our volunteers, members, vendors, staff and community supporters. I would like to publically thank the 559 contributors that helped us exceed our goal."

Walker offered special thanks to Joseph Bellardo, Elizabeth Skakowski, Lance Mark, Wayne Purdy and Christopher White, all of whom volunteered their time, treasure and efforts to lead this year’s campaign.

The Genesee Branch specifically raised $45,113 or 101percent of its 2018 goal. With 85 new donors and 194 renewed donations we had 279 very generous donors help us to achieve this year’s campaign record.

The money raised helps the YMCA meet its charitable mission by offering scholarship support to children, families and seniors in our community that otherwise could not afford to experience the many benefits of the YMCA.

“The Genesee County YMCA is dedicated to identifying the needs of our community and helping to be a part of the solution,” said Jeff Townsend, YMCA executive director. “In 2017 we supported over 650 children, adults, families and seniors with YMCA scholarship assistance.

"So far in 2018, we are on target to help over 700 individuals and families in our community.”

As a leading nonprofit for strengthening community, gifts made to the annual Strong Communities Campaign help the Y advance programming and services that support youth development, healthy living and social responsibility. More importantly, 100 percent of gifts made will make a direct impact on the residents in our communities.

To find out more about how you can help volunteer for the Annual Campaign at the Y or to make a donation that will have a meaningful, enduring impact right in your own community, visit www.glowymca.org or call the GLOW YMCA at 344-1664.

City firefighters want you to Fill the Boot for MDA this Friday

By Billie Owens

Press release:

Members of the Batavia City Firefighters from IAFF Local 896 will fan out across the streets of Downtown Batavia with boots in hand on Friday.

This year's Fill the Boot drive for MDA is June 15th and it's organized by firefighter Chris Morasco.

“In 2017, we set out to break the $10,000 mark," he said. "Our members, with the help of our generous community were successful and able to raise $10,651 for the MDA! Look for us Friday!”

From 8 a.m. to 2 p.m., city firefighters will be at the intersection of Main Street (Route 5) and Court Street AND at Ellicott Street (Route 63) and Court Street.

Photo: File Photo

Fundraiser for nonprofit that aids caregivers is June 15 in Darien Center

By Billie Owens

Ann and Dave Scherff, of Le Roy, are planning a rare getaway, a respite from caregiving for their disabled adult son who lives with them, and someone else is picking up the tab.

It's actually a nonprofit organization in Manlius, east of Syracuse, that is footing the bill for a two-day stay at a bed-and-breakfast inn. The motto of David's Refuge is "Caring for the Caregiver."

It is a mission with an outreach that is growing in Western New York.

Several Genesee County families like the Scherffs have benefitted from this charity, which provides respite, resources and support to parents and guardians of children with special needs or life-threatening conditions.

The goal is to help them be refreshed, restored and renewed in their caregiving roles.

It's easy to burn out.

"Knowing that someone else cares, that we're not alone, being supported -- has given me hope," Ann says.

The couple has a total of five adult children, three of whom have disabilities, but only one remains at home. Still, they have oversight responsiblity for their two other disabled sons, in addition to Ann's disabled sister-in-law.

When they go away, they arrange for professional nursing staff to care for their live-in son.

They have gone on four two-day hotel stays so far. Families aided by David's Refuge are eligible to go on one per year. Afterward, they are also given a $50 gift certificate to enjoy at a local restaurant.

"Doing something to put yourself first," as Ann says, is uncommon for people like the Scherffs.

Families such as theirs not infrequently incur extraordinary expenses while caring for their loved ones; not everything is covered by insurance or government assistance. So splurging on a weekend away is a luxury too rich to contemplate in a lot of cases, even though the results are beneficial to mind, body and spirit.

The widely recognized conundrum provides impetus for the outreach that David's Refuge does.

"We are currently serving 250 families, 120 of whom are from the Western New York area, including Rochester, Buffalo and surrounding communities," said Christine Corbett, director of philanthropy for David's Refuge.

To help their cause, the organization is hosting a fundraiser in Darien Center on Friday, June 15, at the new and beautiful boutique hotel River Spring Lodge. It is operated by David (AKA "Chef Dave") and Carolyn Hamer.

Called "Fireworks for Friends," the 7 to 10 p.m. event will feature a private fireworks display, live music, two beer or wine tickets, free parking and a silent auction. Culinary delights will be served up by Chef Dave, including hors d' oeuvres to pass as well as stationary appetizers.

The cuisine, which Chef Dave defines as "refined American," is highly praised. Guests gush that it is "incredible, exquisite, amazing and remarkable."

Cost per ticket is $50 for "Friends for Fireworks." River Spring Lodge is located at 1961A Church Road, Darien Center.

The Scherffs plan to attend.

To purchase tickets, visit here, or contact Christine Corbett at (315) 382-4204 or email her at Christine.corbett@davidsrefuge.org

To find out more about David's Refuge, click here.

Visit the River Spring Lodge online here.

Zonta Club seeks personal care items for female vets and domestic violence victims

By Billie Owens

Press release:

The Zonta Club of Batavia-Genesee County is seeking donations for their current community project of Personal Care Packages being assembled for both victims of domestic violence and for female veterans.

Items needed to complete care packages are: Full-size shampoo, full-size conditioner, lotions, toothpaste, dental floss, deodorant, female sanitary items, tissues, journals, socks, nail polish, hairbrushes/combs, and shower loofahs. Zonta Club of Batavia-Genesee’s goal is to assemble a total of 100-200 care packages.

Items may be dropped off to Beth Kemp at T-Shirts Etc., 37 Center St., Batavia, by June 15th. For further details and/or questions regarding the personal care packages contact Beth Kemp at 585-993-7747 or bkemp@downtownbataviany.com

About Zonta: Founded in 1919, Zonta International seeks to empower women worldwide by improving the legal, political, economic, educational, health and professional status of women at the global and local levels through service and advocacy.

With the generosity and collective action of Zontians and friends around the world, Zonta International has supported projects in 57 countries, provided scholarships and awards to women around the world, and been a powerful advocate for change in our local and international communities.

Byron-Bergen Builders Club members donate $500 to Behavioral Health Treatment Center at Unity Hospital

By Billie Owens

Student members of the Byron-Bergen Builders Club with Byron Kiwanis Club sponsors and RRH’s David Catalino (right), who gave the group a tour of the recreation center.

Submitted photo and press release:

On May 23, Byron-Bergen Jr./Sr. High School Builders Club members presented a check for $500 to representatives from Rochester Regional Health’s Behavioral Health Treatment and Chemical Dependency Center at Unity Hospital.

Led by Builders Club president, 10th-grader Jacey Donahue, the student delegation was welcomed to the Center by community relations managers Tiffany Carnevale, Valerie Donnelly and Brad Pearson from the RRH Gifts Foundation, along with Center Manager Jennifer Esten, supervisor Kristen Weber and Recreation Director David Catalino.

The group was accompanied by Byron-Bergen teacher and faculty advisor Andrea Feeney and Byron Kiwanis Club sponsors Robert Wood and President Karen Jaczynski.

Members of the Builders Club, who range in age from 7 to 15, have been working hard in their community this year, helping others and raising money through coin collection and raffles.

After researching a number of local organizations, the group decided to donate their funds to the Chemical Dependency Center.

After the ceremony, the group learned more about the operations at the organization and then toured the recreation center, where their money will be put to use purchasing new equipment.

Supervisor Weber explained the importance of exercise at the Center.

“Many people in recovery have not experienced fun, sober activities for a very long time," Weber said. "The exercise and recreation equipment we can purchase with the help of Builders Club funds will aid patients in setting and achieving goals for themselves.

"Thanks to these young people, our patients will build confidence that they can persevere and better their lives.”

Builders Club Member Hannah Catalino (the daughter of the Center’s recreation director), strongly advocated for supporting the organization’s work. She and the other members recognized that the Byron-Bergen community, like many others, is experiencing the problem of substance abuse, affecting fellow students and their families.

Earlier this year, they created handmade cards for the Center to help inspire and motivate recovering patients.

“I think what the Center does is important,” Hannah said. “I see how deeply the people here care for patients. They all feel it in their hearts and we in the Club do, too. We all wanted to help.”

Builders Club has been active at Byron-Bergen Jr./Sr. High School for three years and has about a dozen members. The group began at the Middle School, but has expanded the opportunity to all students in the district who are willing to make the commitment to service.

This year, they’ve volunteered for the Salvation Army and at the Miracle Mile for the Golisano Children's Hospital. They’ve participated in hurricane relief efforts for Puerto Rico and at the Elementary School’s Fall Festival. They can also be seen helping out at community pancake breakfasts.

“Byron-Bergen is a NYS School District of Character and our students support many activities that promote character,” said Club Advisor Feeney. “Builders Club supports the development of character and leadership.

"Everything members do during the year is their idea and their choice. They choose to give back, to better their community and to aid those in need.”

The Byron-Bergen Builders Club members are: Sarah Fraser, Liam Feeney, Andrea Feeney, Jacey Donahue, Hannah Catalino, Claire Williams, Logan Lewis, Robert Wood, Courtney Pakusch, Evan Harter and Karen Jaczynski.

Jam At The Ridge June 15th for a cure to type-1 diabetes with Jason Michael Carroll

By Billie Owens

Press release:

On Friday, June 15th, national recording artist Jason Michael Carroll will headline the Country Jam in Le Roy to support the great research efforts of the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation (JDRF).

Special guests Eric Van Houten and Eric Van Houten will join this great benefit party along with Rebel's Posse. Concert starts at 2 p.m.

As always, this is a family friendly event, so children are welcome and FREE. 

Special-priced lawn tickets are just $10, and VIP with a seat provided just $15 when purchased in pairs. A $2 donation will be made to JDRF Rochester for each of these special tickets purchased.

See a great show and do some good for JDRF. GET TICKETS HERE

The Ridge NY has an outdoor, open-air, concert venue with amazing sound. Bring the children to build memories with activities and even a bounce house.

"The Ridge NY" Team 
www.TheRidgeNY.com
8101 Conlon Road
Le Roy, NY 14482
(585) 768-4883

GC 4-H Sheep Club to hold car wash fundraiser at Batavia Tractor Supply tomorrow

By Billie Owens

There will be a car wash at the Tractor Supply Co. store from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturday, May 26, to raise money for the Genesee County 4-H Sheep Club.

It is located at 4974 E. Main Street Road, Batavia.

All proceeds will go toward fair awards/trophies and barn improvements at the GC Fairgrounds.

Cost is $5 per vehicle.

The club will also be selling hotdogs, chips, soda and water at the fundraiser.

Sponsored Post: Crossroads House Annual Basket Auction is May 19th

By Lisa Ace

Crossroads House is having their Annual Spring Memorial Basket Raffle on Saturday, May 19th from noon to 4 p.m. It will be held at the ARC Community Center located at 38 Woodrow Road in Batavia.

If you can’t make it to the raffle on Saturday, stop in at the Community Center on Friday from 4-6 to purchase and place your tickets. We will have over 150 baskets as well as gift cards, several Mega prizes and two Special Mega’s, the classic Woody Pedal Car and the ½ Day Lake Ontario Fishing Charter.

Tickets for the Special Mega’s are available prior to the event at Crossroads House as well as at the raffle. We have baskets for all ages and for the guys, too!

Lunch, beverages and desserts will be available for purchase. Come on out for great food and prizes all while supporting comfort care right here in our community.

Genesee Cancer Assistance Pearly Fundraiser

By Lisa Ace


Event Title:  Genesee Cancer Assistance Pearly Fundraiser

The girls at Peek-A-Boo Pearls are hosting a Facebook Live Party on Friday, May 4, 2018 6:30PM-10:30PM to raise funds for Genesee Cancer Assistance.

Participants will have their oysters opened to reveal beautiful Akoya pearls in a rainbow of colors as they watch live on Facebook!  Guests can select a cage to keep their new treasure safe then add it to their choice of necklaces, rings, bracelets, and more!  Sterling silver mounted pieces will also be available for their pearly pleasure.

Event Date and Time
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Justice for Children will benefit from this year's Chapin Charity Golf Tournament Aug. 11 at Terry Hills

By Billie Owens

Press release:

Chapin International will be hosting its 11th Annual Chapin Charity Golf Tournament on Saturday, Aug. 11, at Terry Hills Golf Course in Batavia.

Chapin has proudly selected Justice for Children as its charity to support this year. As in the past all funds collected will go directly to the charity.

Please join us this year supporting Justice for Children by a donation, sponsorship or participation. The tournament provides everyone an opportunity to contribute to this truly amazing charity.

Justice for Children was selected out of several other local charities by Chapin's Golf Committee. Many of you may not even know or have heard of Justice for Children. That is a good thing that you never have had a reason to need the services provided. The services are every discreet, provided to protect the privacy of the children in need. All services are free.

The golf tournament is modestly priced at $75 and includes 18 holes of golf with cart, lunch, and dinner. Shotgun start is at 1 p.m.

Every person will receive a prize. Opportunities will be available for chances to win a car in the Hole-in-One contest.

Three local car dealerships -- Ken Barrett, Castilone, and Toyota of Batavia -- offer cars for the contest. All participants will have two opportunities during the tournament to win.

Max Pies Furniture in Batavia will be again offering a lounge chair to the winner of the putting contest held during registration hours before the tournament starts.

Longest drive, closest to pin, and closest to the line will also be available for all during the event. Everyone at all skill levels will have a chance to win. Mulligans and Skins will be offered as well.

Please go to www.chapincharitygolf.com for registration or sponsorship opportunities.

Early registration is advised to avoid missing out, our event fills to capacity quickly.

For any questions or information contact Norm Hubbard, tournament director at nhubbard@chapincharitygolf.com or call/text 409-7575.

About Justice for Children

The Justice for Children GLOW Foundation is honored to be the beneficiary of the 11th annual Chapin Charity Golf Tournament. The mission of the Justice for Children GLOW Foundation Inc. is to provide philanthropic support to enhance the work of the Justice for Children Advocacy Center and multidisciplinary team throughout Genesee, Livingston, Orleans, and Wyoming (GLOW) counties.

The support provided by Chapin will assist us in meeting our goal of ensuring that every child who comes to the Justice for Children Advocacy Center receives the care and support necessary to begin their journey toward healing.

Since opening in 1998, the Justice for Children Advocacy Center has served more than 2,500 children and their families who have been impacted by physical or sexual abuse. In 2018 alone, 287 children and their families benefitted from the services available at the Justice for Children Advocacy Center. These services include victim advocacy, forensic interviewing, mental health counseling, medical exams, and multidisciplinary case review.

The proceeds from the Charity Golf Tournament will be used to replace existing, outdated medical equipment with a state-of-the-art imaging system to be used on site at the Justice for Children Advocacy Center’s Batavia office. This equipment will improve our highly skilled medical providers’ ability to identify, diagnose, and document injuries that have been inflicted upon children who have been physically or sexually abused.

Additionally, this system will create opportunities for continuing education and peer review for our medical providers, allowing them to keep their skills sharp and up to date with current best practices. The welcome addition of this equipment will aid us in our goal of ensuring that all the children we help receive the highest quality care possible.

Nonprofit Hope Center of Le Roy offers eighth annual giveaway of prom dresses April 14

By Billie Owens

File photo from 2016 by Raymond Coniglio, when the event was held at Le Roy's Living Waters Church. Mikayla Radecki is shown on left with Denise Parmenter.

Press release:

The Hope Center of Le Roy, a newly established nonprofit charity, is undertaking the eighth annual “Girls Helping Girls” prom dress giveaway from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Saturday, April 14th. Girls from all over the region are welcome.

Several hundred dresses, some gently used but many brand new have been donated and will be on display at the Hope Center of Le Roy at 42 Main St. in Le Roy.

Girls can find their size and color and try them on, according to Hope Center Director Rev. Henry Moore, whose wife Valerie was inspired to start this give away to relieve families from the pressure of buying a dress for a one-time event, precious as it is. The dresses have come from individuals and stores around the area and are checked for condition and cleanliness.

Volunteers from the local community staff this event to help girls sort through the displays, find matches to their tastes, and guide them to dressing rooms.

“Sometimes people can’t believe that these dresses are really free,” Rev. Moore said, “but there really are no strings attached. This is a gift to the young girls of this region.

"We want them to know that they are loved by God, that He made them beautifully, and that their lives deserve to be treated with dignity and respect.”

The facility is decorated exquisitely and loaded with loving encouragement for the April 14th giveaway.

The Hope Center spreads the benefit of this even beyond American shores.

“From the beginning, we wanted to provide these dresses strictly as an act of kindness, but some people insist on wanting to make cash donations out of appreciation,” Valerie Moore said. “So we decided to keep the ‘Girls Helping Girls’ theme going and pay it forward.

"The dresses are free, and we mean that; but if anyone really wants to make a donation out of gratitude, we will pass on any donations to Tanzania’s House of Hope in the City of Moshi.

"The House of Hope is a large home being built to rescue girls from a life of certain sex slavery; it will be a place where the girls can be equipped and trained for a life of meaning and purpose beyond their wildest dreams. It’s a Win-Win!”

But again, the emphasis is that these dresses are given freely.

The Hope Center was established with a vision to provide spiritual and material support to area citizens and, through the message of hope, call the community to reach its God-given destiny.

Crossroads House celebrates 20 years of providing comfort care, launches $20 campaign

By Billie Owens

Submitted photos and press release:

Crossroads House is celebrating 20 years of providing comfort care to the residents of Genesee, Wyoming and surrounding counties.  The Board of Directors officially recognized the milestone at their meeting this month.

It was held at Batavia’s Original pizzeria, one of the newest Medal Level Business Sponsors of Crossroads House.

Kathy Panepento, along with a core of dedicated individuals, opened Crossroads House in 1998 at 11 Liberty St., the former manse of the First Presbyterian Church. They recognized an unmet need in the area for specialized end-of-life care when in-patient care wasn’t feasible and in-home care was no longer possible.

During these 20 years, the small staff and large core of volunteers have served more than 470 of your loved ones, friends and neighbors by providing the very best in end of life care without charge to the residents or their families.

Panepento remains active at Crossroads House as the director of Resident Care and End of Life Doula Services. The End of Life Doula program is an exciting new opportunity for the community by enhancing the care already provided at Crossroads House and offering doula services beyond the walls of 11 Liberty St.

As a part of the 20th anniversary recognition, Crossroads House has launched a 20 for 20 campaign. This is a one-time campaign to not only honor the two decades of service but to pay it forward and allow Crossroads House to continue caring for the dying for the next 20 years and beyond.

To participate in the campaign, Crossroads House asks for a $20 donation and a challenge to 20 of your friends or loved ones to give $20 and have them challenge 20 of their friends and loved ones and so on.

There are several ways to participate:

You can text to give

By texting GIVE20 to (585) 229-6360

You can give online at:

crossroadshouse.com/20-20-donations/

You can give on our Facebook page at:

www.facebook.com/CrossroadsHouse

You can always give by check:

Simply put “20 for 20” on the memo line

(checks made payable to Crossroads House)

Mailed to:

Crossroads House

PO Box 403

Batavia, NY 14021

Crossroads House would like to thank our generous community for lovingly carrying us through the first 20 years and we look forward to giving back for many years to come.

Crossroads House is “A Gift To The Community, Made Possible By The Community.”

Bring us your bags! Community Action needs clean, holeless recycled plastic or canvas bags ASAP

By Billie Owens

A couple of hours ago, Lisa Wittmeyer, the Emergency Services case manager for Community Action of Orleans & Genesee, sent us a desparate plea asking the public to drop off recycled plastic or canvas bags at the organization's Batavia office.

She implores "NO HOLES PLEASE!" These are to be used for food packages at the Albion office.

The dearth is apparently quite severe.

If you or anyone you know has CLEAN bags like these and can donate them, please drop them off posthaste at 5073 Clinton Street Road.

Call 343-7798 for more information.

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