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Announcements

GC Master Gardeners' fifth season of Garden Talk begins Feb. 7

By Billie Owens

Press release:

2019 marks the fifth year of Garden Talk programs with the Genesee County Master Gardeners. This year we will make a slight change and hold the programs on the first Thursday of the month starting on Feb. 7.

All Garden Talk programs run from 12:15 to 12:45 p.m. Bring your lunch to the Cornell Cooperative Extension office (420 E. Main St., Batavia) and join us. This free series is open to the public. Registration is not required.

Feb. 7 -- “Seed Starting Basics.” Starting your own seeds is a great way to get a jump on the growing season. It also gives you access to hundreds of specialty varieties that you won’t find at your local nursery. We will demystify seed starting at home with easy to follow instructions and insightful tips for both novice and experienced gardeners.

March 7 – “Gardens of New Zealand.” Gardening is rated as one of New Zealanders’ favorite pastimes. Explore the beauty of New Zealand via a photo tour of some stunning gardens.  If you have the winter blahs this will help dispel them!

April 4 – “Composting 101.” Keep your new year’s resolution and start composting this year! There are many different ways to make a compost pile and we’ll explore some of the ways you can make your own black gold for your garden.

May 2 – “Hell Strip Plantings.” The hell strip, the area between the street and the sidewalk, is a challenge to many gardeners. Most are sparse and weed-ridden zones plagued by road salt in the winter and dry, baked soil in the summer. Learn how to avoid the typical pitfalls with hell strips so you can transform yours into a lush and welcoming garden.

Future topics and other Master Gardener events will be posted on the Cornell Cooperative Extension of Genesee County website at http://genesee.cce.cornell.edu/

Rehearsals for new season of Genesee Chorale starts Jan. 14, singers invited to join

By Billie Owens

A new season for Genesee Chorale is about to start. It is a nonprofit choral group drawing singers from Genesee, Wyoming, Orleans, Livingston, Erie and Monroe counties.

Genesee Chorale invites area singers to join in the new season, with Monday night rehearsals from 7 to 9 o'clock beginning Jan. 14 at St. James Episcopal Church in Batavia.

“Voices of the Earth” is the theme for April 5 and 7 concerts, and a May 19 concert will celebrate the music of Andrew Lloyd Webber.

Ric Jones is director, and all skills and voices are welcome.

For further information contact Heather Lovelace at (716) 531-8986, e-mail Info@geneseechorale.com, or visit the chorale's website, geneseechorale.com.

Public Health Column: January is Radon Action Month

By Billie Owens

Public Health Colmun from the Genesee County Health Department:

January is Radon Action Month! Did you know that radon is a naturally occurring, radioactive gas? It has no smell, taste, or color. Radon forms from the breakdown of uranium in soil, rock, and water and circulates into the air you breathe.

When radon is formed under homes and buildings, it can penetrate through cracks in the foundation, leading to high levels of radon, especially in enclosed areas.

Sarah Balduf, Environmental Health director of Genesee and Orleans counties, explains how easily radon can seep into your home.

“Radon can enter your home through cracks in the foundation, walls, joints, dirt floors, opening of sump pump, in well-water supply, and from gaps around suspended floors and pipes. Any home can have high radonlevels, whether it is old or new, has a basement or is built on a slab.”

It is understandable how this colorless, odorless gas can go unnoticed. If high levels of radon in your home are undetected for an extended period of time, the risk for developing lung cancer can occur. According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) radon is the second leading cause of lung cancer. If you smoke and live in a home with high radon levels, your risk for developing lung cancer significantly increases.

Testing your home with a short term radon test kit is the quickest way to determine if there are high levels of radon present in your home. The Genesee County Health Department has an allotment of short-term test kits that are free of charge for Genesee County residents. These test kits are easy to use and contain basic instructions on how to receive the most accurate results when testing your home for radon.

“Testing your home for radon and taking action sooner rather than later could save the health of your family,” Balduf said. "Testing your home for radon is a simple process that is free of charge to Genesee County residents when you request a kit from the Genesee County Health Department."

If you do live outside of the county, inexpensive radon test kits can be purchased at hardware stores. If test results come back and the radon levels in your home are greater than 4 picocuries per liter of air [pCi/L], which is the “take action” level determined by the EPA, a certified radon mitigator can install a radon reduction system in your home. Take action against radon this January!

For more details about the program or to receive any of these services call the department at 585-344-2580.

New photography exhibit called 'Beauty of Western New York' on display at GO ART!

By Billie Owens
A new photography exhibit entitled the "Beauty of Western New York" by Don Fryling is now showing at GO ART!, located in the historic Seymour Building at 201 E. Main St. in Downtown Batavia.
 
The exhibit runs through Jan. 20.
 
There will be an artist reception for Fryling from 6 to 8 p.m. on Thursday, Jan. 17. Tavern 2.o.1 will be open.
 
Gallery hours are:
Thursday, Friday 11-7
Saturday 11-4

Fire Commissioner Board Meeting Schedule for 2019 announced for East Pembroke Fire District

By Billie Owens

Public Notice

This is the East Pembroke Fire District -- Fire Commissioner Board Meeting Schedule for 2019; all meetings will take place at the fire hall, located at 8655 Barrett Drive in East Pembroke, at 7 p.m. Tuesdays on the following dates:                                                                                                            

  • Jan. 8                                              
  • Feb. 12                        
  • March 12
  • April  9
  • May 14
  • June 11
  • July 9
  • Aug. 13
  • Sept. 10
  • Oct. 08
  • Nov. 12
  • Dec. 11
  • Dec. 26                             

William R. Joyce, Secretary

East Pembroke Fire District

St. Joe's hosts Open House Jan. 27 and announces plans for National Catholic School Week

By Billie Owens

Press release:

St. Joseph School in Batavia announces its upcoming Open House and plans for National Catholic Schools Week 2019.

The theme this year is “Catholic Schools: Learn. Serve. Lead. Succeed.” The theme encompasses several concepts that are at the heart of a Catholic education. There is no better way to invest in a child’s future — or the future of our world.

St. Joe's is located at 2 Summit St. in the City of Batavia.

Sunday, Jan. 27th -- Open House
An Open House for prospective families will be held from 10 a.m. - 12 p.m. We will be kicking off the week with “The Great St. Joe’s Slime Off!” from 11 a.m. to 12 p.m. in the school cafeteria.

Monday, Jan. 28th -- Lunch and Bingo/Theme Day/The Great Kindness Challenge/ 8th Grade Robotics Tournament

Parents are invited to join their children for lunch and to play bingo afterward. Grades K-4 will enjoy lunch and play bingo from 11 a.m. - 12 p.m. and grades 5- 8 will follow from 12:15-1:15 p.m. We will be kicking off a kindness challenge with an assembly for all students at 8:30 a.m. in the cafeteria. The 8th grade will have a robotics competition at 1:30 p.m. in the gym. This will be a “theme dress-down day.” Each class will decide on a different theme.

Tuesday, Jan. 29th -- Movie at Batavia Showtime

We will be walking to Batavia Showtime to see a movie (TBD) at 9 a.m.

Wednesday, Jan. 30st -- Bowling/Ice Skating

Students in grades K-2 will be walking to Mancuso Bowling Center to bowl from 9 -11 a.m. Students in grades 3-5 will be walking to Mancuso Bowling Center to bowl from 11:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m.

Students in grades 6-8 will walk to Falleti Ice Arena to skate from 11:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m. A pizza lunch will be provided for all students before they leave.

Thursday, Jan. 31st -- House Activities/Pajama Day

Students will participate in a number of activities in their “houses” including Zumba, Minute to Win It games, technology challenges, team building activities, engineering projects, a scavenger hunt, and a kindness challenge. This is a non-uniform day and students may come to school dressed in their pajamas.

Friday, Feb. 1st -- 7 & 8 Grade Basketball Game/Jump Rope for Heart/Just Dance Craze

All grades will attend mass at 8:30 a.m. At 1 p.m. we will have our annual 7th and 8th grade exhibition basketball game in the gym. Students in grade 6 will be in attendance to cheer these students on. Grades 3-5 will have the choice to participate in a Just Dance Craze or attend the 7/8 grade basketball game. Grades Pre-K-2 will participate in Jump Rope for Heart (sponsored by the American Heart Association) activities in the cafeteria.

Please note: Grades 3-8 will participate in Jump Rope for Heart activities throughout the week. Donations are being collected in the cafeteria and the class with the most money raised will receive a prize.

Northgate church invites people to participate in groups aimed at helping, sharing, coping

By Billie Owens

Press release:

Northgate Free Methodist Church in Batavia is continually opening its doors to the community and inviting everyone to their events throughout 2019. In addition to worship services, Northgate offers dozens of volunteer-led small groups, many of which are open to the public. Several groups relaunch in January, including:

  • Grief Share, a 13-week group designed to help and encourage those grieving the loss of a loved one due to death. The format is a weekly video presentation and discussion time that offers hope and comfort. Find more information at http://www.griefshare.org/about. Meetings will take place on Tuesdays from 6 to 7:30 p.m., starting Jan. 22nd, at Northgate’s North Campus, 8160 Bank Street Road, Batavia. There is a $15 cost for workbooks, scholarships available.
  • Divorce Care, a friendly, caring group of people who will walk alongside you through one of life’s most difficult experiences. Don’t go through separation or divorce alone. Divorce Care seminars and support groups are led by people who understand what you are going through and want to help. You will learn how to heal from the deep hurt of divorce and discover hope for your future. A new 13-week session begins on Saturday, Jan. 19th, from 6 to 7:30 p.m. at Northgate’s North Campus. There is a $15 cost for workbooks, scholarships available.
  • Mothers of Preschoolers or “MOPS” are women who gather together twice a month to share and support each other in the remarkable journey that is motherhood. Meetings consist of relevant speakers, fun crafts, supportive conversations and fellowship. There is always hot coffee and childcare provided at MOPS meetings. Moms can choose a 9 a.m. group or a 6:30 p.m. group. MOPS is open to all moms with children from birth to their youngest child finishes kindergarten. MOMSNext is also available for moms of school-aged children, they meet every second and fourth Wednesday from 6 to 8 p.m. Visit Northgatefmc.com/mops for more information. Each group has a separate membership fee, scholarships are available.
  • Celebrate Recovery meets every Thursday evening at 6:30 (including any and all holidays that fall on a Thursday, unless there is a serious snowstorm). Our CR leaders guide and assist those of us who are gaining joy and freedom in Christ as we apply the 12-Steps of Celebrate Recovery to the hurts, habits and hang-ups we all struggle with. All are welcome! We believe anyone and everyone would benefit by attending this group, where we take off our masks and allow God to transform our lives. We are able to share openly and honestly about our struggles with people we come to trust, who will maintain confidentiality, and who will not judge us. For more info, go to: https://northgatecr.weebly.com/
  • Financial Peace University will be held on Wednesday nights, starting on Feb. 13th, from 7-8:30 at the North Campus (8160 Bank Street Road, Batavia). For more than 25 years, Financial Peace University, created by Dave Ramsey, has helped thousands of people take control of their money. Through this nine-week course, Ramsey’s proven money class will show you step-by-step how to create a budget, pay off your debt, make wise spending decisions, and save for the future. Preregistration is required, so please visit https://fpu.com/1079986 to sign up. The cost for the class is $129, scholarships are available. If you have questions please email john@northgatefmc.com.

For more information about any of these groups or other events, please contact the Northgate office at (585) 343-4011 or email office@northgatefmc.com

Genesee Valley Plein Air Painters to open 14th annual juried art show at Pittsford Barnes & Noble starting Jan. 1

By Billie Owens

Press release:

The Genesee Valley Plein Air Painters will open its 14th Annual Art Show beginning Jan. 1st at Pittsford Barnes & Noble’ Community Room.

This competitive, judged and juried show will display about 90 original paintings recently created throughout the Northeast. The plein air show runs through Feb. 1s.

"Plein air painting," meaning on-site painting in open air (natural light), is popular with artists and their patrons alike. Boats, rural barns, landscape vistas, gardens, cityscapes and waterscapes are all staple subjects in the plein air painter's repertoire.

More than 85 percent of each painting in this show is produced on-site, "in the open air.” Painting mediums include oil, water color, soft pastel, acrylic and gouache.

The Genesee Valley Plein Air Painters Inc. is an association of outdoor artists that promotes and inspires quality plein air painting. It was established in September 2005. Genesee Valley Plein Air Painters Inc.  (GVPAP) currently boasts 64 artist members who live in the surrounding counties of Greater Rochester, the Finger Lakes, Western and Central New York.

Participating artists in the show in Pittsford Plaza reside in Pittsford, Fairport, Canandaigua, Batavia, Macedon, Sterling, Ontario (Canada), Phelps, Kent, Baldwinsville, Livonia, Rush, Caledonia, Dansville and Rochester.

The Pittsford Barnes & Noble Community Room at Pittsford Plaza is located at 3349 Monroe Ave., Pittsford. The Reception and Awards Ceremony will be held from 3 to 5 p.m. on Sunday, Jan. 6.

GVPAP’s Annual Art Show is free and open to the public. Gallery hours are also the store's hours.

For more information see:  www.GVPAP.com or email  paint@GVPAP.com

Presale tickets available for 'Winter Escape' at Catholic church in East Bethany

By Billie Owens
Press release:
 
"Winter Escape" tickets are on sale now! On Saturday, Feb. 2, Mary Immaculate Parish in East Bethany will host their third Annual Winter Escape fundraiser.
 
Escape the winter blues with family, friends, delicious food and live music.
 
The evening will start at 5:30 at the Immaculate Conception Hall with a delicious Farmer's Wife Turkey Dinner. From 6:30-10 p.m. live music will be performed by the Red Creek Band. There will be a gift basket raffle.
 
This fun-filled family event is not to be missed!
 
Tickets are $20 for adults; $10 for children 12 and under. Remember, tickets are limited and presale only so get yours early so you don’t miss out!
 
For tickets please contact Jill Gould (716) 474-0850.
 
The church is located at 5865 Ellicott Street Road in East Bethany. Phone is 584-7031.

Niagara Frontier Radio Reading Service joins Western New York Independent Living Inc. family of agencies

By Billie Owens

Press release:

As of Dec. 1st, Western New York Independent Living Inc. (WNYIL) is excited to welcome the Niagara Frontier Radio Reading Service (NFRRS) as the sixth member of their family of agencies!  

Founded 31 years ago, it's an audio news service for those who are unable to read print publications, such as the blind, dyslexic, those with certain traumatic brain injuries, or who have limited limb use that makes holding publications difficult, etc.

This 24-hour/7-days-per-week service brings community newspapers, magazines, and books into the homes and ears of its constituents all across Western New York and Southern Ontario, Canada. 

This function makes NFRRS a natural to join a collaboration of agencies that work to bring knowledge to people with disabilities who wish to stay informed, make their own decisions, and participate in their neighborhoods.

At present, a listener must have a special radio set to receive the side band audio channel that WNED-FM provides to be able to enjoy it. While they are provided at no cost, an annual donation would be appreciated.   

A cadre of dedicated volunteers reads from The Buffalo News, USA Today, Niagara Gazette, The Wall Street Journal, the Sunday edition of The New York Times, various popular magazines, best-selling fiction and nonfiction books, one hour per week of old-time radio, and, the most popular features: the Death Notices, Horoscopes and Tuesday supermarket ads! 

NFRRS is always seeking more service participants and volunteer readers, including those who can read but have other disabilities. A survey will be going out to existing participants to determine what’s working in the service and what can be improved.

A majority of the more than 100 audio information services in the United States stream their broadcasts on the Internet, and WNYIL is exploring that option to determine if that would be embraced by current and potential participants.

To get additional information on NFRRS, call Program Manager Nick Aldrich at (716) 821-5555.

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.

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.

Job Fair at career center planned for Jan. 17

By Billie Owens

The Genesee County Job Development Bureau along with its partners at the One Stop Career Center invites you to attend our Job Fair.

The event will be held from 2 to 4 p.m. on Jan. 17 at the career center, located at 487 E. Main St. in Eastown Plaza, Batavia.

At least 30 local employers that are actively hiring for multiple job openings will be there.

If you would like to be better prepared to attend the Job Fair, you are encouraged to attend a workshop to hone your job-hunting skills:

  • Interviewing Skills Workshop -- Monday, Jan. 7 -- 2 to 3:30 p.m.
  • Resume Workshop -- Thursday, Jan. 10 -- 10 to 11:30 a.m.
  • Linked In & Twitter Basics -- Monday, Jan. 14 -- 2 to 3:30 p.m.

Free home testing for radon available from county health department

By Billie Owens

Public health column from the Genesee County Health Department:

Did you know that exposure to radon is the second leading cause of lung cancer after cigarette smoking? According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), approximately 21,000 lung cancer deaths per year are related to radon.

Many people are unaware that radon may be a problem in their homes because it is a radioactive gas that you cannot smell, taste or see. The good news is that lung cancer related to radon exposure can be prevented by testing your home.

So where does radon come from? Radon gas forms naturally in the ground from the breakdown of uranium in soil, rock, and water that circulates into the air we breathe. When radon is formed under homes and buildings, it can easily enter through cracks in the foundation, walls, joints, dirt floors, opening of sump pump, in well-water supply, and from gaps around suspended floors and pipes.

When radon enters a home, the toxic gas can get trapped inside. Breathing indoor air with high radon levels can be damaging to your health.

Paul Pettit, Public Health director of Genesee and Orleans counties, explains the dangers relationship betweensmoking, radon, and lung cancer.

“Radon and tobacco smoke from cigarettes (including but not limited to cigars and pipes) can damage your lungs," Pettit said. "When they’re combined, smoking and radon are more dangerous than either one on its own. Smokers who live in a home with high radon levels have a risk of lung cancer that is 10 times higher than nonsmokers who live in homes with high radon levels.”

Testing your home is the only way to know if you and your family are exposed to radon. A short-term test kit is the quickest and easiest way to test your home. The EPA recommends testing the lowest level of your home where people spend time.

If you use part of your basement for living space, like a playroom, office, or den, test there. If you only use your basement for storage, test the first floor. Avoid testing in places that are damp like the kitchen, bathroom or laundry room.

The EPA recommends that you take action to reduce your home's indoor radon levels if your radon test result is 4 pCi/L (pico curies per liter) or higher.

In Genesee County, the average basement screening level is 7.46 pCi/L, and the average first-floor screening level is 4.32 pCi/L.

Due to the high levels of radon, the Genesee County Health Department offers free short-term radon test kits to residents in Genesee County. The department also provides educational in-services and materials about radon, testing and mitigation at no charge.

If your home has an elevated level of radon, you should contact a certified radon mitigator to install a radon reduction system in your home. It is important to note that these systems should only be installed by a certified radon mitigator.

A radon reduction system can be a low cost and effective way to reduce the level of radon in your home. If you are purchasing a new house, make sure the seller completes a radon test and has the results available. If you are building a new home, make sure to have radon-resistant construction features installed and tested prior to moving in.

For more information on radon, please visit here.

For more details about the program or to receive any of these services call the department at 585-344-2580, ext. 5555, ot visit here.

RSVP is seeking volunteer tax preparers

By Billie Owens

Press release:

AARP Foundation Tax-Aide Program will again provide tax preparation services for the 2018 tax season. The program is seeking volunteers to assist in the preparation of federal and state tax returns for low to moderate income individuals.

Excellent training is provided at the Genesee County Office for the Aging weekdays from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Monday, Jan. 14th – Friday, Jan. 25th and Wednesday, Jan. 30. Volunteers must pass a proficiency exam before serving the public, with tax preparation appointments beginning Feb. 4th through April 15.

The program served almost 1,200 households last year and for many people, provided peace of mind along with their filings. Recipients told us ”Like always, the volunteers were very friendly and helpful. They explained the answers to my questions, so I understood.”

This is a wonderful growth opportunity for people interested in learning new skills, engaging with fellow volunteers and serving the public, all while helping to meet an essential community need.

You don’t have to be a tax expert. If you’ve been known to complete your own tax returns from time to time or maybe consider yourself a “numbers” person, please call Courtney Iburi, RSVP coordinator, at (585) 343-1611 to learn more about how you could help those in need this upcoming tax season.

GC 4-H Youth Tractor Safety Program begins on Saturdays in January

By Billie Owens

Press release:

The Genesee County 4-H Program will be offering a Youth Tractor Safety Program beginning in January 2019. The program is open to all youth ages 14 to 15 and covers farm safety, tractor safety, tractor operation and other related topics.  

The National Safe Tractor and Machinery Operation Program is a certification program that enables youth be certified to operate farm equipment for hire. After completing the training course, youth will need to pass a written knowledge test and driving test to receive the certification.  

The program is scheduled to run Saturdays, 8 a.m. to 12 p.m., January through March. The fee for the program is $30. Youth are also required to be current enrolled 4-H members.

Instruction takes place at various farm machinery dealerships countywide.

To request a registration packet or more information, please call the Genesee County 4-H Office at 585-343-3040, ext. 101, or visit the website here.

WWII book about USS Juneau has local connection

By Virginia Kropf

Rob R. Thompson, of Attica, has written 15 books, four of which were bestsellers, but his favorite so far is the story of the Sullivan brothers who were all killed on the USS Juneau during World War II.

Thompson will be at Le Roy’s Moose Lodge today (Saturday) to sign copies of "The USS The Sullivans" until 3 p.m. during the Le Roy Winterfest.

His book is not about the bombs, guns and steel which made up the ship, but rather it combines emotion, history and paranormal events surrounding the ship.

While researching for his book, Thompson spent three nights on the ship anchored in Buffalo’s Naval Park.

Thompson covers the history of the cruiser and details the life of Eugene Straub, originally of Darien, who was also lost aboard the Juneau.

During his research, Thompson located Straub’s daughter, now 75 and living in Utica.

The book is available online, as well as at the book signing.

Meet Pearl and Zeus -- they want to go home with you straightaway

By Billie Owens

Meet pale-coated Pearl, a lovely little buff-and-white, golden-eyed feline that, despite her inherant glamour, was found in a dumpster. She is awaiting a forever home at the Genesee County Animal Shelter.

Pearl is an adult; she's spayed and sweet-tempered. She loves attention. That means she will enjoy having a pal who pets her and laughs when she tries to catch the laser beam at playtime. She prolly goes bonkers with a catnip mouse.

Another solid friend waiting for new digs is named Zeus.

You remember Zeus, king of the Greek gods who lived on Mount Olympus. He was the god of the sky and thunder. His symbols include the lightning bolt, the eagle, the bull, and the oak tree. He was married to the goddess Hera. That one.

Well, this Zeus is not married to the goddess Hera and he's a four-legged canine -- a pit bull-terrier mix who is not as complicated as his mythological namesake.

He likes long walks and is described as simply "a nice guy." He also "trains well for treats." Meaning he's motivated to do all sorts of things, like sit, down, stay, etc., if there's something edible in it for him. He's also very handsome.

If you and your family need a quality companion to make your holidays brighter, look no further that the shelter on East Main Street Road in the Town of Batavia. You won't regret it.

Speaking of the shelter, they could use some supplies. Now that the calendar has put you in a gift-giving frame of mind, why not donate to the Volunteers for Animals? Or bring in some useful items like Purina Cat Chow, plain non-clumping litter, bleach, paper towels, dog food, small pet beds, etc.

For monetary donations, make checks payable to the Genesee County Sheriff's Office and mail to:

Volunteers For Animals
PO Box 1621
Batavia, NY 14021

Visit the shelter at:

3841 W. Main Street Road
Batavia, New York 14020
585-343-6410

Hours of Operation:

  • Sunday, Monday, Tuesday, Friday --  1 to 3 p.m.
  • Wednesday -- 1 to 3 and 7 to 9 p.m.
  • Thursday -- CLOSED
  • Saturday -- 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.

NYS DanceForce announces second year of competition for choreography grants

By Billie Owens
Press release:

The New York State DanceForce, in partnership with the New York State Council on the Arts, announces the second year of the Western New York Choreographers’ Initiative (WNYCI).

The 2019 cycle will expand from 10 counties to 17, supporting choreographers living in New York’s westernmost counties: Chautauqua, Niagara, Erie, Cattaraugus, Orleans, Genesee, Wyoming, Allegany, Monroe, Livingston, Wayne, Ontario, Yates, Steuben, Chemung, Schuyler and Seneca.

The application deadline is Feb. 19.

The WNY Choreographers’ Initiative is designed to help WNY resident choreographers develop their choreographic skills by providing them with appropriate resources that are generally unavailable or unaffordable. These resources include 24 hours of creative studio time, professional dancers, the guidance of a professional mentor chosen by the artist, and a $2,500 stipend.

Two choreographers will be selected for the award in 2019.

“This initiative is a wonderful opportunity for choreographers working in all dance genres,” said WNYCI coordinator Lois Welk. “I look forward to shepherding two artists through the program. Choreographers who have questions or need help completing the application should contact me directly for individualized support.”

The New York State DanceForce is a consortium of 19 dance activists committed to increasing the quantity and quality of dance activity throughout New York State. Each of our members receives an annual allocation to create projects that bring dance artists to Upstate NY communities in customized residencies.

Since its founding in 1994, the DanceForce, through the work of its members, has funded more than 350 projects, raising more than $2.8 million in support of these endeavors.

Complete guidelines and application forms, can be found at www.danceforce.org. For more information contact WNYCI coordinator Lois Welk at loisapril9@gmail.com.

To show support for sexual and domestic violence victims, make teal and purple scarves

By Billie Owens

Press release:

Local victim assistance providers are asking supporters to help raise awareness in a crafty way this holiday season by making teal and purple scarves.

RESTORE Sexual Assault Services, Willow Center and other agencies that assist survivors of sexual and domestic violence, offer free services because they are funded in part by a law titled the Violence Against Women Act, or VAWA. In Genesee, Livingston, Monroe, and Orleans counties RESTORE offers support to survivors of sexual assault.

In Wyoming County, RESTORE is the provider for both sexual assault and domestic violence services. Willow Domestic Violence Center has provided services for the Greater Rochester community for nearly 40 years and reaches more than 7,000 people in Monroe County each year. Sojourner Home: The House of Strength provides shelter, structure, strength, and inspiration to women, their families, and others in need so they are prepared to lead responsible and meaningful lives.

VAWA, a federal funding bill which provides for survivors of all genders, is up for reauthorization soon, and RESTORE, Willow Domestic Violence Center and Sojourner Home are working together and invite the community to show their support for survivors.

Teal is the official color of sexual violence awareness and prevention. Purple is the designated color for domestic violence awareness. To show support for survivors and programs that assist them, donations of teal or purple-colored scarves (knitted or crocheted) are needed for distribution to survivors and their loved ones. Scarves should be at least six inches wide and 72 inches long. 

In Genesee County, donated scarves can be dropped off Dec. 3-12 at: Planned Parenthood, 222 W. Main St., Batavia

More information (or to coordinate a drop-off in Livingston, Orleans or Wyoming county) is available at 585-786-5450 or by emailing scarves@ppcwny.org. 

About RESTORE

RESTORE, a program of Planned Parenthood of Central and Western New York, leads the community response to sexual violence through advocacy and education by providing the safety, support and validation that changes the lives of all those affected by sexual assault.

Trained counselors are available 24-hours a day, seven days a week to provide information and support, enabling clients to make informed choices concerning medical, legal and counseling needs, while offering advocacy and information about their rights. Counselors also offer short-term counseling sessions and legal and medical accompaniment. Services are free and confidential.

Batavia Players announce 2019 schedule with 10 shows at Harvester Theater

By Billie Owens
Press release:
 
The Batavia Players will be performing 10 shows at the Harvester 56 Theater in 2019.
 
The 2019 season is full of variety and sure to appeal to a wide audience. New this season: performances of Shakespeare in Springtime will also take place in Wyoming County at the Wyoming Village Hall.
 
The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Nighttime
Directed by Patrick D. Burk
 
Friday, Jan. 25th & Saturday, Jan. 26th -- 7:30 p.m. & Sunday, Jan. 26th -- 2 p.m.
 
Curious Incident is a triumphant production that explores the abilities and coming of age of a young autistic teen and his ability to learn from the world. TONY-award-winning play.
 
On Broadway TEN – Saving the Best for Last
Directed by Kathy White
 
Friday, Feb. 22nd, Saturday, Feb. 23rd, Friday, March 1st & Saturday, March 2nd – 7:30 p.m. AND Sunday, Feb. 24th -- 2 p.m.
 
Featuring a very talented cast of all ages performing music from the decades of Broadway. Shows to include TONY Award winners: "Wonderful Town," "Bye, Bye Birdie," "Sweeney Todd," "Les Miserables," "Sunset Boulevard," "Jersey Boys" and "Hamilton."
 
Shakespeare in Springtime Presents: King Lear
Directed by E. Jane Burk
 
Friday, April 5th, Saturday, April 6th – 7:30 p.m. & Sunday, April 7th – 2 p.m.
Friday, April 12th & Saturday, April 13th – 7:30 p.m. Special performances at the Wyoming Village Hall.
 
One of William Shakespeare’s best-known tragedies, "King Lear" delves into the themes of family, greed and madness. With Norm Argulski as King Lear.
 
Hollywood Arms 
Directed by Heather Ferris
 
Friday, May 10th & Saturday, May 11th – 7:30 p.m. & Sunday, May 12th – 2 p.m.
 
Adapted from Carol Burnett’s best-selling book "One More Time" and cowritten by her daughter, Carrie Hamilton, this amazing dramedy looks at the lives of three strong women living with poverty. "Hollywood Arms" is based on the life of Carol Burnett and her much-mentioned grandmother and mother.
 
Mamma Mia!
Directed by Patrick D. Burk – Musical Direction by Kathy White
 
Friday, June 7th, Saturday, June 8th, Friday, June 14th & Saturday, June 15th – 7:30 p.m.
Sunday, June 9th & Sunday, June 16th – 2 p.m.
 
Bringing the famed ABBA musical to the stage after its 14-year run on Broadway will be quite the feat! The story features one woman, her soon-to-be-married daughter and three possible dads, along with a cast of incredible characters and a Greek island. "Mamma Mia!" is being staged in this area for the first time at the Harvester 56 Theater.
 
Seussical Kids
Musically Directed by Kathy White
 
Friday, July 19th & Saturday, July 20th – 7:30 p.m.
A tremendous end to our two-week Theater Kids Camp, "Seussical Kids" looks at the world of Doctor Seuss through the use of song, dance and laughter.
 
Newsies (Summer Youth Theater)
Directed by Patrick D. Burk, with Jacquie Siegel McLean as assistant director
Musical Direction by Kathy White
 
Friday, Aug. 9th, Saturday, Aug. 10th, Friday, Aug. 16th & Saturday, Aug. 17th – 7:30 p.m. & Sunday, Aug. 11th – 2 p.m.
 
Adapted from the Disney Movie "Newsies the Musical," this major production looks at the lives, loves and day-to-day struggles of New York City’s famed newsboys during the heyday of newspaper publishing. Staged during the 1899 real-life newsboys strike in New York City, this musical is jam-packed with great songs, incredible dances and historical characters. Newsies is performed by the Summer Youth Theater; actors range in age from 13-21.
 
August: Osage County
Directed by Anthony Baldwin-Giambrone
 
Friday, Sept. 13th & Saturday, Sept. 14th – 7:30 p.m. & Sunday, Sept. 15th – 2 p.m.
 
Set in Pawhuska, Okla., this Pulitzer-Prize-winning play looks at the lives of a once-famous published poet and his quirky, demanding and damaged family. A longtime hit on Broadway as well as a TONY Award winner.
 
The Rocky Horror Picture Show
Directed by Michele Stamp – Musical Direction by Kathy White
 
Friday, Oct. 4th, Saturday, Oct, 5th, Friday, Oct. 11th & Saturday, Oct. 12th – 7:30 p.m. & Sunday, Oct. 6th, Sunday, Oct. 13th – 2 p.m.
 
Brad and Janet stumble upon a delightful castle that is occupied by Frank-N-Furter and the FUN and Time Warp begin!
 
A Charles Dickens Christmas
Directed by Patrick D. Burk – Musical Direction by Kathy White
 
Friday, Dec. 13th, Saturday, Dec. 14th, Friday, Dec. 20th & Saturday, Dec. 21st – 7:30 & Sunday, Dec. 15th – 2 p.m.
 
A tender and poignant musical on how Charles Dickens' life was inspired and shaped while writing one of his most famous stories. Chock-full of holiday favorites as well as some incredible new music, this is a must-see production for the holiday season featuring a cast wide ranging in age.

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