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Office for the Aging to give out Farmers Market Nutrition Program coupons after July 1

By Press Release

Press release:

Office for the Aging with be distributing Farmers’ Market Nutrition Program coupons again this year! This is expected to begin after July 1st, but not before then.

In an effort to keep socially distant, all the distributions will be held outdoors wherever possible. Please bring your own pen to sign for the booklet.

We will be circulating flyers around the county, announcing the distribution locations. There will also be announcements on WBTA, ads in the local newspaper, Pennysavers and online media outlets.

Don’t forget to check the Office for the Aging on the Genesee County website and Office for the Aging’s Facebook page. For additional information, please call our office at (585) 343-1611.

NYS Office for the Aging offers video series to help eligible seniors apply for benefits

By Press Release

Press release:

New York State Office for the Aging (NYSOFA), in collaboration with state agencies and other partners, has created a series of videos on how to complete and submit applications for benefits for older New Yorkers and other eligible individuals.

Many New Yorkers are eligible for a variety of federal, state and local benefits that can put cash in their pockets, help pay for prescriptions, food and heat, have their taxes reduced, and help pay for their care.

These benefits are paid for with tax dollars by the same individuals who need them, however, many are either unaware of these benefits, reluctant to apply for them, or need assistance in understanding and filling out applications.

“We wanted to make it as easy as possible for people to apply for these benefits by showing them how to fill out certain applications and get them approved,” said Greg Olsen, NYSOFA acting director. “and instead of people having to go to the experts, we decided to bring the experts to them.”

The initial videos in the series are available on the NYSOFA website (page link) and its social media pages, including YouTube. Additional video tutorials will be added on an ongoing basis.

Here is a list of the videos and applications they cover:  

  • Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) -- application for food assistance;
  • Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP) -- assistance with paying for heat or air conditioning;
  • Elderly Pharmaceutical Insurance Coverage (EPIC) -- assistance to afford prescription drugs;
  • Senior Citizen Homeowners Exemption (SCHE) and Disabled Homeowners Exemption (DRE) – assistance with housing costs by freezing rent;
  • NY School Tax Relief (STAR) Program -- local property tax reduction;
  • Medicare Part-B - assistance in paying for services from doctors and other health care providers, outpatient care, home health care, durable medical equipment, and some preventive services
  • Medicare Savings Program (MSP) -- assistance in paying for Medicare premiums. In some cases, Medicare Savings Programs may also pay Medicare Part A (Hospital Insurance) and Medicare Part B (Medical Insurance) deductibles, coinsurance, and copayments if you meet certain conditions;
  • Weatherization Assistance Program -- assistance with making homes more energy efficient to reduce energy costs;
  • EmPower NY -- assistance to reduce monthly energy costs;
  • Extra Help -- assistance in  paying for Medicare prescription drug program costs, like premiums, deductibles, and coinsurance.

About the New York State Office for the Aging
The mission of the New York State Office for the Aging (NYSOFA) is to help older New Yorkers be as independent as possible for as long as possible through advocacy, development and delivery of person-centered, consumer-oriented, and cost-effective policies, programs, and services that support and empower older adults and their families, in partnership with the network of public and private organizations that serve them. Stay connected to the New York State Office for the Aging—download the NYSOFA mobile app for iOS or Android; visit the NYSOFA Facebook; follow @NYSAGING on Twitter; or visit www.aging.ny.gov.

COVID-19 vaccine eligibility now includes seniors 65+ and broader category of essential workers

By Press Release

Press release:

The New York State Department of Health on Tuesday posted online the most up to date information regarding those who are now eligible to receive COVID-19 vaccinations.  

Those who are eligible now includes a broader category of essential workers and seniors who are 65 years and older. The eligibility was previously 75 years and older.

Eligible essential workers and seniors should use the online tool to find a location as well as call the COVID-19 Vaccination Hotline for scheduling vaccination appointments at 1-833-NYS-4-VAX (1-833-697-4829).

Finally, and most importantly, Genesee and Orleans counties' health officials are urging patience as the supply of vaccine is extremely limited in the GLOW region and across New York State.

Currently there is only limited amount of doses of the vaccines available in both counties while the number of residents and essential workers now eligible to receive the vaccine is approximately 50,000.

'ask marshall' provides new ways to connect with services for older adults in Genesee County

By Press Release

Press release:

The Muriel H. Marshall Fund for the Aging at Rochester Area Community Foundation is introducing new ways to connect with the great services it supports for older adults in Genesee County. 

A new website, askmarshall.net, shares how the Marshall family of programs supports healthy aging and also provides easy access to resources for aging well. Whether you’re older yourself, care for someone who is, or want to be a part of what makes aging in our county different, ask marshall is the place to start. 

Older adults also can get answers and connect to helpful resources through the new ask marshall helpline at (585) 815-7979 or by sending an email to:   askmarshall@co.genesee.ny.us

Over the past 20 years, guided by the vision of Roxanne Marshall, the Marshall-funded programs have helped thousands of older adults remain independent, engaged and supported as they age in Genesee County. Whether online, by phone or email, ask marshall — makes it easier to connect with these programs wherever you are, whenever you like.

The Muriel H. Marshall Fund for the Aging, was established in 1998 with a $7 million bequest from Roxanne Marshall, who grew up in Batavia. The fund was named in honor of her mother, whose later life experiences helped shape Roxanne’s vision to promote quality of life in later years. Roxanne’s bequest and vision were entrusted to Rochester Area Community Foundation.  

Because of the Foundation’s diligent fund management and leadership, along with guidance from a team of Genesee County residents, the Marshall family of programs has grown over the years to meet a wide range of local needs. 

Since 1999, the Marshall Fund has distributed more than $8.3 million in 225-plus grants to support older adults in Genesee County.

Le Roy Village Green Residential Healthcare Facility allows in-person family visits

By Billie Owens

Press release:

The Le Roy Village Green Residential Healthcare Facility has begun limited in-person visits by families and friends.

“We are immensely pleased to have reached this major milestone," said Samantha Vagg, administrator of Le Roy Village Green. "Our health care heroes worked very hard to comply with all the necessary New York State, CDC and county health department requirements in order to offer limited visits.

"The visits have delighted our families and raised the spirits of our residents. Everyone is so excited to see their loved ones again.”

The in-person outdoor visits began July 28 and they are allowed on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 10 a.m. until 4 p.m. Appointments can be made for 30-minute increments and they are limited to two visitors.

No visitation will take place in resident rooms except for medical necessity or end-of-life services. Le Roy Village Green recognizes that some residents and their families may wish to continue safer forms of visitation such as online chats, which will continue.

New York health officials banned outside visitors to nursing homes on March 13 as part of an effort to contain the coronavirus. Early in the ban, LeRoy Village Green offered virtual visits on tablets.

In July, state health officials announced that nursing homes could resume in-person visits if they met a number of criteria, such as remaining without COVID-19 for at least 28 days, a threshold set by the federal Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services.

In-person visitors must adhere to multiple health precautions.

“This resumption of limited visits does not mean that we are relaxing our precautions in any way," Vagg said. "Our staff will continue to follow rigorous safety protocols and all visitors will be required to do so as well."

Rules for in-person visits include:

  • Face masks covering both nose and mouth for residents and visitors, as well as social distancing of six feet. No touching of residents, hand shaking or hugging is allowed;
  • Visitors may be required to use hand sanitizer, wear additional personal protective equipment and they will be instructed on good hygiene prior to a visit;
  • No resident can have more than two visitors at a time;
  • Minors under 18 years of age must be accompanied by an adult;
  • Screening of visitors includes a temperature check, health questions and travel questions. Le Roy Village Green will maintain records of the screenings.

All visitation areas will be cleaned and disinfected after each use, using an EPA approved disinfectant. Any resident in a 14-day quarantine or observation period will not be allowed visitors, except for end-of-life visits. Non-medical appointments are still prohibited.

'Save Our Seniors' -- peaceful protest Saturday at City Hall against continued lockdown of seniors

By Billie Owens

Friends and family members concerned about lack of visitation with the old folks they love will hold a protest in front of Batavia City Hall on Saturday.

It will be from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at One City Centre in Downtown Batavia.

"We want to see our loved ones," said Oakfield resident and organizer Beverly Noody. "It's not about their living conditions or problems with the local facilities, it's about not being able to visit them."

Although the Finger Lakes Region is in Phase Four of reopening under New York On PAUSE, a regionalized plan to flatten the COVID-19 infection rate, organizers are pushing back on what they say are officials' continued insistence to keep seniors under lockdown.

They disagree with the continuation of the mandate put forth by Gov. Andrew Cuomo, the state Department of Health, and the nation's Centers for Disease Control.

"It's been six months with no end in sight," Noody said.

For example, if they test everyone at a facility on Monday, and an employee receives a positive result, including the possibility of a false positive, they quarantine everyone for 28 days, well beyond the 14-day period it's believed infected people might be able to spread the disease. 

"We have small facilities here -- can you imagine at places three times as big, what that means?" Noody asked. "They'll never be able to have visitors. It's an impossible standard."

The lack of visitation, along with not offering group activities, outside activities, music programs, church services, etc., has taken a toll on the residents and their families, according to organizers.

"It's depressing," Noody said. "Can you imagine that same thing every day? They are encouraged to stay in their room. All they have is TV."

Staff will trim men's hair, but not the ladies'. She's not sure about whether they trim their nails, something family members often took care of.

Seeking change and greater awareness of the situation, those rallying to "Save Our Seniors" will be distributing flyers and "letting people know that these residents need to have their rights back," says Dana Kelley, one of the organizers.

People who share this view are encouraged to speak up, show up and tell others, Kelley added.

Questions? Call Beverly Noody at (585) 356-7581.

There's now a waiting list for Senior Farmers' Market Coupons

By Billie Owens

From the Genesee County Office for the Aging:

There is now a waiting list for the Senior Farmers’ Market Coupons.

Please call 343-1611 to be placed on the list. You will be informed of the date and location of when we will be handing them out.

If you have mobility concerns, you may send another person on your behalf. Please provide this person with a note. 

You must be on the list to receive a booklet of coupons.  

First come, first served.

Walk-ins at Office for the Aging on Bank Street in Batavia will not be accepted.

Senior Farmers' Market Nutrition Program coupons available for income-eligible people age 60 and up

By Billie Owens

Press release:

Beginning on July 7, Office for the Aging will be at the Genesee Country Farmers’ Market every Tuesday from 1 to 3 p.m. and every Friday from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. for the months of July and August.

We will also be at the Le Roy Farmers’ Market every Saturday in July from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m.  This will begin on July 10th.  

If you live in Senior Subsidized Housing, please check with your site manager and/or look for our flyer announcing when we will be at your location.  

The Senior Farmers’ Market Nutrition Program Coupons are for income-eligible individuals 60 years of age or older. You may receive one booklet per person in a household who qualifies. Individuals may provide a note allowing another person to pick up their booklet.  

 2020 Income Guidelines:

  • Household of one = $ 1,968/mo.
  • Household of two = $ 2,658/mo.
  • Household of three = $ 3,349/mo.

Maureen Estabrooks, Office for the Aging’s coordinator for the program, noted, “New this season! If you cannot come to a distribution site and you do not have someone as your Power of Attorney, you can provide a handwritten note naming another person (a proxy) to pick up a booklet on your behalf.

"This person may also be a proxy for other seniors as well. The note must be signed by the senior and presented by the proxy to the Office for the Aging staff at the distribution site.”  

Please note that Farmers Market Coupons are distributed on a first-come, first-served basis. A waiting list will be established if necessary.  

If you have any questions, please call Office for the Aging at (585) 343-1611.

Starting tomorrow Tops markets will offer early morning shopping Tuesdays and Thursdays just for seniors 60+

By Billie Owens

Press release:

In these uncertain times we at Tops Friendly Markets feel the need to address the concerns of our most vulnerable population, our seniors 60 years of age and older.

We've heard you and therefore, effective Thursday, March 19, and until further notice, Tops will open its doors for this select audience only, allowing them to shop from 6 – 7:30 a.m. every Tuesday and Thursday.

Rest assured we will not be asking for identification as we trust the community will not abuse this privilege. Tops also has curbside and pickup delivery as an alternate shopping solution.

Please visit Topsmarkets.com to shop online.

Annual HLOM Senior Bus Tour is Sept. 18: Roycroft Campus, also shopping at Vidler's 5 & 10 in East Aurora

By Billie Owens

Press release:

The Holland Land Office Museum will be hosting its Seventh Annual Senior Bus Trip on Wednesday, Sept. 18th. This year's trip will be traveling to the Roycroft Campus in East Aurora.

The trip will include a two-hour tour of the campus, going through many of the buildings not always open to the general public.

After the tour we will be eating lunch at the beautiful Roycroft Inn, with a choice of entrees: lemon rosemary chicken, garden penne, or salmon.

There will also be time afterward for exploring of Downtown East Aurora, where everyone can enjoy the wonderful shopping opportunities including the famous Vidler’s 5 & 10. It bills itself as the "largest 5 & 10 cent variety store in the world" -- over 75,000 items spread through four buildings on two floors.

The bus will be leaving at 9 a.m. from the museum and returning at 5 p.m. Tickets are $60 per person ($55 for HLOM museum members). Must be 60 years of age or older to purchase tickets for this event.

For more information please contact the museum at 585-343-4727 or hollandlandoffice@gmail.com.

The event is made possible by the Muriel H. Marshall Fund.

Handyman services available to GC residents 60 and older who need minor home repairs

By Billie Owens

Press release:

If you are a Genesee County resident 60 or older (or you know someone who is) and would like help with small repairs to your home, inside or out, let the Handyman help.

The Handyman Program, offered through the Pathstone Corporation and funded by the Muriel Marshall Fund, is a home maintenance and minor repair program.

According to a comment posted by program supervisor John Wiltse, and confirmed by Office of the Aging specialist Maureen Estabrooks, there is no charge for lower-income seniors needing grab bars or hand rails installed or other services with modest materials costs.

Wiltse says seniors may need to cover part of the cost of materials, depending on the dollar amount. For higher-income seniors, the program requests a donation of $10/hr. for handyman labor to help offset program costs.

Call NY Connects/Office for the Aging at 343-1611 for more information.

A sampling of services is as follows:

  • Install grab-bars
  • Repair entry steps Install hand rails
  • Repair porches
  • Electrical repairs
  • Window and door repairs
  • Install weather stripping
  • Gutter repairs
  • Install smoke detectors/change batteries
  • Hang pictures
  • Fix faucets
  • Unclog drains
  • Install mailboxes
  • Install locksets & deadbolts

Volunteers critically needed to help older GC adults with meal delivery, medical transportation, home visits and more

By Billie Owens

Press release:

There is an immediate need for volunteers to help older adults in Genesee County for: Meals on Wheels delivery; friendly home visits; budgeting and bill paying; out-of-county medical transportation; and delivery of library materials.

“My parents live in a town that doesn’t provide much in the way of supportive services," says a volunteer who fits in meal delivery on her lunch break from her job once a month. "As a Meals on Wheels volunteer here in Genesee County, I became aware of just how lucky we are to have this program, as well as so many others that are funded by the Marshall Fund.

"But, of course, even with funding, they wouldn’t be possible without the help of volunteers.”

That's so true, according to Courtney Iburi, director of the RSVP Volunteer Placement Program, “She is so right, the volunteers are absolutely necessary to the continuation of these critical programs.”

For as little as a couple of hours a month, you can help people live safely and independently in their homes. Opportunities are flexible to meet your needs.

Do you enjoy having a friendly conversation, driving, or organizing bills? If so, you can have a major impact in the lives of your neighbors and their loved ones.

Supplemental liability insurance is provided to all volunteers and mileage reimbursement may be available for some assignments.

Interested adults may contact Courtney Iburi, director of the RSVP Volunteer Placement Program at the Office for the Aging, at 585-343-1611.

Alzheimer’s disease programs and services being offered in Genesee County

By Billie Owens

Press release:

Do you know the difference between Alzheimer’s disease and dementia? Learn the facts during a free educational program in Batavia."Understanding Alzheimer’s Disease and Dementia" is a free program that will be presented by experts with the Alzheimer’s Association® Western New York Chapter at 11 a.m. on Tuesday, Aug. 6.

The Genesee County Office of Aging at 2 Bank Street will host the class.

While Alzheimer’s disease currently cannot be prevented or slowed, there are steps to take and recommendations to follow in the areas of diet and nutrition, exercise and cognitive activity that promote healthy aging.

Learn more during a free educational program offered by dementia experts at the Chapter in August. "Healthy Living for your Brain and Body" will be presented at 1 p.m. at the New York State Veterans Home at 220 Richmond Ave. in Batavia on Monday, Aug. 12.

Registration is required for both programs by calling the Chapter office during traditional business hours at (716) 626-0600, ext. 313, or 24-hours a day, 7-days a week at 800-272-3900.

Additionally, the Chapter oversees several monthly caregiver support group meetings across the county, which allow caregivers to connect with others facing similar challenges and hear advice for overcoming them:

  • 3rd Wednesday (Aug. 21) at 7 p.m. – Richmond Memorial Library, 19 Ross St. in Batavia
  • 3rd Thursday (Aug. 22) at 1 p.m. – Genesee County Office for the Aging, 12 Bank St. in Batavia
  • 2nd Monday (Aug. 12) at 2 p.m. – The Greens of Le Roy, 1 West Ave. in Le Roy

Community social programs, or respites, are also available every month in Batavia and Corfu. This program provides relief to those who care for individuals with Alzheimer’s disease or other dementia and offers them some time to refresh and recharge, while their loved one is engaged in social activities in a safe environment.

First Presbyterian Church of Batavia offers this free service on the fourth Monday (Aug. 26) from 10:30 a.m. - 2:30 p.m. For additional information, please call Mickey Rodak at (585) 455-5940.

Local residents now have a second Batavia location for this service. On the second Monday of each month (Aug. 12) St. James Episcopal Church at 405 E. Main St. will offer a four-hour program, starting at 10:30 a.m. Those interested in this respite should call Barbara King at (585) 343-6802.

Indian Falls United Methodist Church at 7908 Allegany Road offers a respite program on the third Wednesday (Aug. 21) from 10:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. For more information, call Celinda McQuiston at (585) 762-9105.

To learn more about other Alzheimer’s Association programs and services, contact the WNY Chapter office at 800-272-3900.

You can also access dementia care programs and resources by calling the Genesee County Office for the Aging at (585) 343-1611.

Silver Sneaker regular at the YMCA turns 98 tomorrow -- an inspiration to her 70-something friends

By Billie Owens

 

Above, Doris Tootell, seated, and her daughter, Joan Stevens, at the YMCA Thursday morning.

Submitted photo and information from the YMCA in Batavia.

Doris Tootell is a local resident who attends the Silver Sneaker exercise class twice a week at the YMCA in Batavia.

That's been her routine for 11 years now and she has no plans to change it. Just because she turns 98 tomorrow (DOB: June 29, 1921) is certainly not reason enough.

"Doris never complains and just keeps going,” says Bonnie Versage.

As for Tootell, she credits YMCA group instructor Becky Swanson for her stick-to-itiveness and says the workouts help with her aches and pains. 

Her friends at the Y are so inspired by her liveliness and get-up-and-go spirit that they held a little celebration for her at yesterday's class.

“(She's the) most caring woman I have ever met,” said friend Nancy Speed.

You know she really cares for you when she bakes you a pie, and her gal pal Brenda Cackett says she bakes pies for all her friends."

We should all be so lucky!

Farmers Market Coupons available to low-income adults age 60 and over

By Billie Owens

Press release:

Farmers Market Coupons will be distributed at the Genesee County Office for the Aging, 2 Bank St., Batavia, on the following dates:

  • Wednesday            June 26         10 a.m. - 12 p.m.
  • Wednesday            July 10           1 - 4 p.m.
  • Tuesday                 July 16           10 a.m. - 12 p.m.
  • Thursday                July 18           10 a.m. - 2 p.m.

Also, the Genesee County Office for the Aging also plans to distribute coupons at the:

  • Le Roy Farmer’s Market from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. on Saturday, July 6;
  • Downtown Batavia Public Market from 11:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Friday, July 26.

Booklets are available to adults aged 60 years and older who are income-eligible. Proof of age identification must be provided.

Income guidelines are as follows: household of one $1,926 per month; household of two $2,607per month; and, household of three $3,289 per month.

Maureen Estabrooks, Office for the Aging’s coordinator for the program, noted, “Anyone 60 or older in a household may receive a coupon booklet as long as they are income eligible. This means that in a qualifying household, multiple individuals may receive booklets.

"This program is a wonderful way to help older adults with limited income purchase fresh produce from our local farmers.”

Questions may be directed to the Genesee County Office for the Aging at 585-343-1611.

RSVP volunteers helped GC seniors with filing for more than $1 million in income tax returns

By Billie Owens

Submitted photo and press release:

RSVP Volunteer Placement Program of Genesee County announced today that 17 RSVP volunteers prepared more than 1,200 federal and state tax returns, bringing back to the community over $1 million in income tax refunds.

The volunteers served 3,500 hours through RSVP in collaboration with AARP and the IRS, who provide training, materials, equipment and technical support for the Tax Assistance Program.

The program is open to all individuals in need of basic tax preparation and is designed to assist low to moderate income households. There is no charge for the service, but donations are accepted.  

For many people, the AARP Foundation Tax-Aide Program provides peace of mind along with their filings. Recipients comment on the professionalism, kindness and accuracy with which their returns are processed.

The RSVP Volunteer Placement Program helps individuals 55+ find meaningful volunteer opportunities with 25 different agencies in Genesee County.  If the tax program sounds interesting to you, please call Courtney Iburi, RSVP coordinator, at (585) 343-1611 to learn how you can help those in need next tax season.

Training is provided and opportunities to serve are flexible.

Congratulations to the dedicated volunteers, who made such a difference for so many people!

Kohl's, Office for the Aging and RSVP volunteers bestowed bouquets on seniors

By Billie Owens

Submitted photos and press release:

In celebration of Spring, beautiful bouquets of flowers were hand delivered on Wednesday (April 17) to more than 90 Meals on Wheels recipients. This delightful surprise brought smiles all across Genesee County -- and even some tears of joy.

The Genesee County Office for the Aging and the RSVP Volunteer Placement Program were pleased to partner 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 and their caregivers.

The special delivery of posies was made possible through the generosity of a private donation, specifically to benefit the lives of those receiving Meals on Wheels.

The Program offers a nutritionally balanced, hot meal at lunchtime, five days per week. The meals are delivered by dedicated RSVP volunteers and Office for the Aging staff. Each person receives social interaction and a safety check with each delivery as well as ongoing case management, an important piece of the program, which supports their health and independence in the community.

Anyone interested in helping with these efforts by way of a donation 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 (585) 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.

Batavia women's senior hockey team wins area's Scottsville tournament

By Billie Owens
Submitted photo and write-up by Head Coach Craig Jackson:

 

The Batavia “Babes on Blades” women’s senior hockey team finished off another strong season this year by competing in and winning the area's annual Scottsville Women’s Senior Hockey Tournament during the last weekend of March for the second year in a row.

In the first game, the Batavia team defeated the always tough Buffalo “Stampede” by a 6 to 1 score.

The second game of the tournament was against the Brockport “Ladies on Ice.” Batavia started fast and were up 3 to 0 at the end of the first period. Brockport tightened up with the teams trading goals. Batavia won the game be a 6 to 2 score.

In the third game of the tournament, Batavia played against the host team Scottsville “Chicks with Sticks.” This game was more of a defensive game between the two teams with Batavia ending up with a 3 to 0 win.

The championship game finished with a rematch against the host Scottsville team again. Batavia scored the first goal about halfway through the first period and never looked back as they ended up with the win by a 8 to 0 score. Strong defensive play and goal tending during all the games was key to the tournament win.

Shopping at The Gift Shop in the Senior Center benefits older adults in our community

By Billie Owens

Press release:

Stop by and visit The Gift Shop, located in the Senior Center at 2 Bank St. in Downtown Batavia between the Arts Council and the YMCA.

The daily display of reasonably priced unique gifts, women's accessories including scarves, ponchos, purses, and jewelry is ever changing and now dressed up for the holiday season.  

Come and enjoy this charming shop and meet the friendly volunteers and staff. The gift shop is easily accessed and open to the public from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Friday.

Browse, and take home fun gifts galore for your loved ones. The bright, beautiful apparel, seasonal housewares and decorations will be perfect for you, your family and friends. 

The proceeds are devoted to providing popular wellness activities for our local older adult population giving them affordable opportunities to socialize and participate in community-related trips, local events, and activities offered throughout the year.

For more information, please call 585-343-1611 and ask for Mary.

Batavia's Frank Gioia maintains a lifelong passion for running

By Virginia Kropf

Frank Gioia, of Batavia, was photographed in Buffalo in September when he won first place in his age group in the USA Track and Field Championships. 

Frank Gioia has been serious about running since he was young. He's 65 now.

A son of Babe and Dolly Gioia, Frank was born and grew up in Batavia, where he ran all through high school, he said. He was the first one from Batavia to qualify for cross country in the state championships, he said. 

He attended Genesee Community College for two years, and for about five years took a break from running to play softball.

“Back then, everybody was playing softball,” Gioia said. “There were ball teams then all over town.”

As a young man, he had married the former Pattie Walker and had three children, during which time his running took a back seat. He went to work as a welding foreman for the railroad, retiring from CSX Transportation.

Now, as a senior citizen, with time to devote to his love of running and the desire to keep fit, he is chalking up some wins on the USA Track and Field circuit.

In 2016, Gioia placed eighth in a USA National 5K Championship road race in Massachusetts. This past August, he was third our of 15 in the nation in a 5K road race in Atlanta, with a time of 21 minutes 6 seconds.

In his most recent victory, he finished first among 14 in the nation in September in the USA Track and Field Championships in Buffalo with a time of 21 minutes 36 seconds.

His first-place finish was 30 seconds longer because it was in the grass in Delaware Park, Gioia said, while the Atlanta race was on pavement. All races were in age groups. 

He has also traveled to races in San Francisco and Virginia.

He thinks what attracted him to running was because you don’t have to be a member of a team to run. 

“I always enjoyed running, and I could just go run any time I wanted to,” Gioia said. “And when you do good, that makes it all the more pleasurable.”

Although all of his children and three grandchildren are serious about sports, none shared his passion for running.

During good weather, he runs nearly every day, but during the winter he runs on the treadmill at the YWCA four days a week.

He is going to take a break for three or four weeks while he waits for next year’s schedule for the national races to come out.

“I have accomplished everything I really wanted to do, and I’m happy now just maintaining what I’m doing,” Gioia said.

Gioia just learned he has been named The Buffalo News “Runner of the Year” in the 65 to 69 age group. Out of the seven races in the series, he won the first six and placed second in the last race.

He also recalled several other honors to his credit, including running the 1983 Philadelphia Distance Classic half marathon in one hour and nine minutes. That placed him 55 out of more than 3,000 runners.

In 1984, he ran the Skylon International Marathon in two hours and 29 minutes, placing seventh out of 1,153 runners.

And, in 1985 and 1986, he won gold medals at the New York Empire State Games in the 10K on the track.

Photo below: In August, Frank Gioia, of Batavia, placed third in the nation in the Masters 5K USA Track and Field Championships in Atlanta.

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