Announcements

Congradulations to:

Lindsay Harman  and   Matt Magill 

on the birth of they're son

Logan Thomas born 1/13/09  UMMC

From the Cornell Cooperative Extension:

Cornell Cooperative Extension of Genesee County will be offering a variety of upcoming events. More information can also be found on our website - http://genesee.cce.cornell.edu or by stopping by the Extension Center at 420 E. Main Street in Batavia.

Tuesdays, January 6th through February 10th - Positive Parenting Series - 3:30 p.m. to 5 p.m. at Cornell Cooperative Extension of Genesee County, 420 East Main St., Batavia. Nutrition and Parenting Educator Mariellen Woodward-DeFelice will teach the following classes: Anger in the Family, Responsibility and Your Children, Disciplining Your Children, Setting Limits and Expectations, Winning Ways to Talk with Kids, and Family Enrichment. The series is offered at no cost to Genesee county residents and at a nominal fee for residents of surrounding counties. The next series will begin February 24th. For more information or to register contact Mariellen by phone at 343-3040, ext. 105, e-mail mew33@cornell.edu, or stop by the Extension Center located at 420 E. Main Street in Batavia.

January 28th from 8:30am to 3:30 pm - 2009 Corn Expo
Waterloo Holiday Inn, Waterloo, NY.
Guest Speaker - Dr. Danny Klinefelter Professor and Extension Economist, Texas A&M University specializes in agricultural finance and management development. He has worked with some of the best and brightest farm business men and women throughout the United States. His presentations are featured through Farm Futures' Seminar Series. You will not want to miss this very dynamic thought provoking speaker. Click HERE for the agenda and registration form.

January 28, 2009 - Ontario County Maple Beginners Workshop
For more information contact Russell Welser, Cornell Cooperative Extension Ontario County, 480 North Main Street, Canandaigua, NY 14424, Phone: 585.394.3977

January 29, 2009 - Farmland Protection and Purchase of Development Rights
7:00 to 9:00 pm Genesee County Building II, 3837 West Main Street Rd., Batavia
This workshop is designed for community leaders, farmers, grant writers, town planners, town attorneys, appraisers and anyone with an interest in farmland protection in our region. The workshop provides a comprehensive review of the process for creating successful Purchase of Development Rights projects and programs in your communities including a review of grant applications and case scenarios. Please RSVP to Holly McAllister, Genesee County Planning Department at 585-344-2580 ext. 5467 or hmcallister@co.genesee.ny.us.

February 2nd at 7 p.m. - 4-H Local Government Intern Program.
To be held at the Old County Courthouse, Batavia, NY. This orientation program is designed for For Juniors and Seniors in High School. For more information on this program contact Chip Malone at (585) 343-3040, ext. 130. Click HERE for more information.

February 4 from Noon to 4:45 pm - Greenhouse Growers Seminar
Held at CCE-Monroe County, 249 Highland Avenue, Rochester.
Topics include: nutrient management and its role in growth regulation, pest and disease management, pest management, plant disease management and greenhouse sanitation. Registration begins at noon the day of the event. Program cost is $15. Contact Karen at 585.461.1000x225 or email ksk8@cornell.edu to register. Click HERE for more information.

February 4, 2009 - WNY Soybean/Small Grains Congress
Batavia Party House, Stafford. Click HERE for more info or contact Cathy Wallace at (585) 343-3040 x138.

February 10 - Becker Forum on Ag Labor
Holiday Inn Liverpool, Syracuse, NY. Contact NYSVGA@twcny.rr.com.
Proactive Approaches to Immigration and Workforce Issues. A variety of speakers will present at the Forum providing their unique perspectives on the changes occurring in agricultural labor, and will also provide practical and positive approaches for agricultural employers to apply with regards to public perception of the immigration issue and human resource management. Pre-registration required. For more information go to http://www.nysaes.cornell.edu/hort/expo/

February 11 and 12 - Empire State Fruit and Vegetable Expo
Oncenter Convention Center, Syracuse, NY. Contact NYSVGA@twcny.rr.com.
Two full days of tree fruit, vegetable and berry educational sessions including information on production, pest management, organic marketing, soil health and more! Pesticide Credits and CCA Credits will be available. The Expo trade show will feature the newest products, services and specialized equipment for the fruit and vegetable industries. Trade show sessions will be held in the exhibit hall both days. Contact the NYS Vegetable Growers Assoc. at 315-687-5734. For program information go to http://www.nysaes.cornell.edu/hort/expo/.

Beginning on February 14th from 8 a.m. - Noon - NYS Tractor and Farm Machinery Safety Course.

To be held at various dealerships in Genesee County. Course instruction and intensive training in tractor and farm machinery safety, leading to certification is being planned for Saturday mornings at various dealerships in Genesee County. Classes include general tractor maintenance, safe farm equipment operation and safety issues in general. This training is offered only once a year and is for youth ages 14-16. For more information on this program contact Amy Berry at (585) 343-3040, ext. 106. Click HERE for more information.

February 16 - Small Fruit IPM Scout Training
10 am to 3 pm at CCE Wyoming County, 401 North Main St., Warsaw
This is the first of 4 sessions on small fruit production practices. Sessions 1 & 2 will be held as classroom sessions while sessions 3 & 4 will be held at Green Acre Farm in Rochester. Click here for the brochure. Contact Lutie Batt at 585-786-2251 for more information. Registration deadline is February 6. Cost is $75 for all 4 sessions.

February 18 - Online Courses for Beginning Farmers
The NY Beginning Farmer Project announces the next round of online courses designed to help plan new farm enterprises. Starting February 18, “Taking Stock: Evaluating Your Resources and Choosing an Enterprise†is 5 weeks long. The second course, “Marketing and Profits: Making Money Selling What You Grow†is 6 weeks long and begins March 18. Both courses are designed to stand alone, or build on each other by being taken back-to-back. They will be taught by educators from Cornell Cooperative Extension, and both courses will incorporate real-time interaction with webinars. Register soon as space is limited. Cost is $100 per course or $150 for both.
See http://beginningfarmers.cce.cornell.edu/index.php?page=onlinecourse for computer requirements and registration details.

February 20, 2009 from 10:30 am - 12:30 pm. Crop Insurance Meeting
Cornell Cooperative Extension - Niagara County, 4-H Training Center 4487 Lake Avenue (Rt. 78 just north of Lockport)

Agenda:
10:30 am Welcome/introductions: Paul Lehman, CCE, Extension Educator
10:40 Crop insurance policies with March 15th sales closing deadlines, such as corn (IIP, APH, CRC, GRP), soybeans, dry beans, grain sorghum, oats, processing snap beans and oats. Adjusted Gross revenue-Lite (AGR-L). Minimal treatment of specialty crops - Charles Koines, Consultant
11:25 Break
11:30 Comments from crop insurance representatives
11:40 SURE disaster program - Farm Bill provisions - Jim McNeil, Director, FSAUSDA,Niagara County; Jim Bittner, Singer Farms
12:30 pm Program ends - lunch
Lunch will be available for those who contact Karen (716-433-8839 x221, or kmk27@cornell.edu) by Feb. 19th.

February 21st from 9 am to NOON - 4-H Public Presentations.
To be held at Byron-Bergen Middle School. This event will help 4-Her's develop poise, self-confidence, organizational skills, ability to think ahead and become more comfortable speaking in front of others. Family and friends are welcome to attend this event. For more information on this program contact Barb Sturm at (585) 343-3040, ext. 122.

February 23 - The First Annual Farmer-Chef Conference
This day long conference will offer Western New York's chefs and other food industry professionals the opportunity to network with local farmers and artisan food. Details are pending. For more information visit their website at http://www.fieldandforknetwork.com/ To receive up-to-date information about the Farmer-Chef Conference, please send your email address to FieldandFork@gmail.com

March 6 from 9:30 am to 3:00 pm - Winter Dairy Management - Dairy Modernization
Held at the Batavia Party House, Stafford, NY
Topics covered:
>Business Planning for a Successful Project
>Is your Farmstead Master Plan Still Workable?
> Renovating the Old Free-stall for Milking Cows, Heifers or Special Needs
> Replacement Parlor Options (including Robots & Manure handling)
>Evaluating environmental issues on your farm
For more information contact Cathy at 585-343-3040 x138. Click HERE for the registration form. Cost is $20 which includes lunch.

March 10 from 8:30 am to 3:30 pm - NYS Dry Bean Meeting
Held at BW's Restaurant, Davis' Countryside Meadows Golf Course, 11070 Perry Rd., Pavilion

For more information contact Carol MacNeil at 585-394-3977 x406 or crm6@cornell.edu. For those enrolled in the Cornell Cooperative Extension Vegetable Program cost is $20 pre-registration ($25 walk-in). For those NOT enrolled - $30 pre-registration ($35 walk-in). 2 DEC and CCA credits have been requested. Click HERE for the agenda and registration form. Listen to 1180 WHAM AM Radio in case of bad weather for cancellation notice.

March 11th from 9am to 11am - Weed Management Workshop for Commercial Pea Growers.Held at Batavia First United Methodist Church, 8221 Lewiston Road in Batavia.
Dr. Robin Bellinder, Cornell will be the presenter. DEC/CCA credits available. Cost: $5.00 per person. To register or for more information, contact Julie Kikkert, 585-394-3977 ext. 404 or jrk2@cornell.edu.

March 16th to 20th - Ag Literacy Week.
Ag Literacy Week unites communities and schools. Volunteers bring New York agriculture into local schools by sharing a special story and leading educational activities. Volunteer in your community and get this year's book donated to your school or library.

This year the program will highlight the NYS Apple Industry and with the help from the NYS Apple Association and their generous donation will also mark the first year in which the book that is used will be written by New York Ag in the Classroom (NYAITC) staff. This book will be the first in a series that will highlight New York Agriculture and is titled: The Empire State Investigator: The Applesauce Bandit.

For more information on volunteering or to sponsor a book for Ag Literacy Day, please contact Barb Sturm at (585) 343-3040, ext. 122 or via e-mail at bbs28@cornell.edu. Click HERE for more information.

March 21st - 7th Annual Celebrate Agriculture Dinner
Held at the Alexander Fire Hall, Route 98 in Alexander, NY. Sponsors of the event include Cornell Cooperative Extension of Genesee County, Genesee County Chamber of Commerce, Genesee County Farm Bureau and Genesee County Soil and Water Conservation District. This extremely popular community tradition has become firmly established as a festive, fun filled get-together, and an opportunity to come together and socialize before the beginning of another growing season. Open to the general public. Tickets are $25 per person or $230 for a table of 10. Only 400 tickets will be sold and no tickets will be sold at the door. For more information or to purchase tickets call Michelle at 343-3040, ext. 107.

March 26 1pm to 4pm -Regional Berry Workshop - Pruning and its Impact on Pest Management
Livingston County CCE, Mt. Morris.
Agenda: Pruning Blueberries and Brambles
Pruning and Pests - A Closer Look
Sprayer Calibration's easier to do and more important than you think
NYS DEC pesticide applicator credits will be available for categories 1A, 10, and 22. Registration fee is $10. To register contact Jennifer at 585-658-3250. For more information call David Thorp, 585-658-3250 x109 or email dlt8@cornell.edu. Click HERE for the registration form.

Entries due locally to Barb Sturm March 27th - Be Aware of NY Agriculture Contest
The Be Aware of New York Agriculture Contest is a great way to expose students (Pre-K - 6th grade) to agriculture and the food system, and to meet the New York State Learning Standards in your classroom. Students can learn more about where food comes from and why it is important that they understand agriculture in New York State, while creating art and writing projects.

The contest is divided by grade level categories and statewide winners (1st, 2nd, 3rd, and 2 Honorable Mentions) are selected for each grade level.

* 1st place individual for each grade level is awarded a $50 U.S. Savings Bond.
* 1st place classroom and school receive agriculture-related books and /or videos.
* 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place winners receive T-shirts.

All awardees receive Certificates of Recognition. Winning entries will be exhibited at the Great New York State Fair.

If you are interested in more information about this contest or need an entry from, please contact Barb Sturm at (585) 343-3040, ext. 122 or check out the New York Ag in the Classroom website at : www.nyaged.org/aitc.

2009 Agriculture Enrollment - This service provides subscribers with up-to-date information on trends in the agricultural sector by utilizing research-based knowledge from Cornell University. Included in this service, at no charge, are direct mailings of "emergency information" for commodities of interest to you and voting privileges at the Extension Association's annual meeting to determine organization leadership. The deadline for enrollment in the 2009 agriculture information service is February 1, 2009. Call Cornell Cooperative Extension of Genesee County at (585) 343-3040 ext. 126 or visit the Extension Center located at 420 East Main St. in Batavia for more information and enrollment packets.

4-H Participants - Please check the Extension website and refer to the monthly calendar for new and on-going events and deadlines. If you are interested in joining the 4-H program contact Amy at 343-3040, ext. 106 or stop by Cornell Cooperative Extension, located at 420 East Main St. in Batavia.

4-H Local Government Intern Program - Designed for high school Juniors & Seniors. Orientation meeting 7 pm on February 2nd at the Old County Courthouse in Batavia. For more information on this program contact Chip Malone at (585) 343-3040, ext. 130.

Coffee and Dessert Series - If you want to socialize and learn about gardening, why not consider participating in the Coffee and Dessert Programs offered by Cornell Cooperative Extension of Genesee County. This is the fourth year of this popular program of classes presented by Community Educator Gail Culver and Genesee County Master Gardeners. During the program participants will enjoy a cup of coffee or tea along with desserts homemade by the Master Gardeners. For more information and to register call Amy at 343-3040, ext. 106 or stop by the Extension Center located at 420 East Main St. in Batavia.

Eat SMART New York - This free, confidential program for food stamp participants and limited income individuals and families explores parenting strategies, healthy meal options, and ways to stretch food dollars. For more information and to schedule an appointment, call the nutrition and parenting education program at 343-3040, ext. 134 or stop by Cornell Cooperative Extension, located at 420 East Main St. in Batavia.

Master Gardeners - Get answers on everything from landscaping to pest management. Free service. Call 343-3040, ext. 127, 10 a.m. to Noon, Monday through Friday or e-mail geneseemg@cornell.edu, or visit the Master Gardener Office at Cornell Cooperative Extension of Genesee County, 420 East Main St., Batavia.

Master Gardener Home Diagnostic Service - Genesee County Master Gardeners conduct on-site visits to diagnose plant and pest problems, test soil pH, advise homeowners on gardening practices and more. Cost is $25 for the first hour and $15 for each additional hour. Fee includes informational packets, soil testing and diagnostic results. To schedule an appointment, contact Gail Culver, Consumer Horticulture Educator at Cornell Cooperative Extension of Genesee County, at 343-3040, ext. 132, e-mail gac11@cornell.edu, or visit the Master Gardener Office at Cornell Cooperative Extension of Genesee County, 420 East Main St., Batavia.

Master Gardener Speakers' Bureau - Providing talks on a variety of topics, such as wildlife, local bird life, organic gardening, landscaping and more. Programs can be tailored to meet audience needs. Fee is $50, or $25 for non-profits in Genesee and surrounding counties. For more information call Gail Culver, Consumer Horticulture Educator, at 343-3040, ext. 132, e-mail gac11@cornell.edu or stop by Cornell Cooperative Extension, located at 420 East Main St. in Batavia.

From Genesee Community College:

The Spring 2009 semester has already started at most colleges, however, it's not too late for 'Late Start Classes' at Genesee Community College's Arcade Campus Center. Late Start classes begin February 17 for prospective students who may have missed the January 20th Spring 2009 semester start, or who may have unexpected career changes in just the last few weeks. There are currently four classes available for Late Start leading students toward new career paths.

With the impact of the economy on local businesses, many industrial and manufacturing plants have been forced to down-size or close their doors all together. Many of those employees have few options for alternative employment. Numerous workers are now turning to new careers, sometimes with the help of training funds offered in their lay-off packages or by a local unemployment office.

"Retraining funds are an excellent way to explore or start a new career path, but the funds often have limited use periods," Deborah DiNoto, associate dean of the Arcade Campus Center said. "We hope every person who is looking at a lay-off will consider the opportunities that await them by getting a degree or immersing themselves in higher education."

Four Arcade Campus Center classes that begin on February 17 and continue for 12 weeks until May 16 are:

• Public Speaking (SPE108) - Tuesdays and Thursday, 10:50 AM - 12:45 PM
• General Psychology (PSY101) - Fridays, 8:30 - 11:45 AM
• 3D Design (ART127) - Fridays, 12:05 - 4:15 PM
• Human Nutrition (BIO108) - Tuesdays and Thursday, 1:40 - 4:00 PM

Many of these courses are the foundation or building blocks to a new degree that can be earned completely at the Arcade Campus Center such as: Human Services, Office Technician, Teacher Education Transfer or a degree in Criminal Justice.

For example, PSY101: General Psychology is a requirement for the Human Services curriculum and still has many seats available. A Human Services degree can lead to many exciting job opportunities in the local communities. Numerous careers are available with a Human Services degree, such as:

• Early Childhood Education Aide and Teacher Aide
• Nursing Home Activity Aide
• Social Work Aide
• Special Education/Developmentally Disabled Child Care Aide
• Social Services Youth Worker or Parent Aide
• Alcohol/Substance Abuse Program Aide: Rehabilitation and Prevention Program
• Recreation Youth Worker
• Mental Health Therapy Aide

There may be a limited window of opportunity for employees to take advantage of training funds from previous jobs and College officials advise individuals to check with the employer or the local Job Corp or Unemployment Office to investigate all available training funds and expiration dates for using these funds.

To apply online for classes at any Genesee Community College campus location, new students should go to http://www.genesee.edu/index.cfm/general/dspArticle/admissions.apply/default.cfm or stop by the Arcade Center at 25 Edward Street in Arcade, NY or call 585-492-5265.

From Genesee Community College:

The BEST Center at Genesee Community College is pleased to welcome Salvatore (Sam) Campanella as a new Small Business Development Center (SBDC) advisor. Funded, in part, by the Small Business Administration, the SBDC delivers counseling, training, and industry-specific research to small business entrepreneurs. The BEST Center has hired Campanella to advise potentially new and current small business owners in Genesee, Livingston, Orleans, and Wyoming counties.

"Mr. Campanella brings over 20 years experience in all phases of management in manufacturing, industrial and retail organizations," Jerry Kozlowski, dean of The BEST Center said. "He has a proven ability to research and implement new methods and procedures to achieve cost savings and improve cash flow. He also previously advised small businesses through his work with the Henrietta Chamber of Commerce."

Campanella is currently the owner of Notary On Demand in Rochester, NY, a company that specializes in providing loan closing services for banks and title companies, individual notary services, identification verifications and field service audits and inspections. He previously had been a co-owner and the vice president of Genesee Financial Corporation, a financial organization that provided alternative funding to small and medium sized companies to improve their cash flow through accounts receivable funding. In addition, he has owned several retail businesses in the Rochester area.

Campanella brings a unique blend of skills that span from industrial and retail management to real estate sales. He is a New York State licensed real estate salesperson and is presently a real estate investor. He is affiliated with the NAR (National Association of Realtors), the NYSAR (New York State Association of Realtors) and the GRAR (Greater Rochester Association of Realtors).

"The current economic climate is really an ideal time for people who are struggling with layoffs and plant closings to develop creative ideas for new business ventures," said Campanella. "I'm excited to start advising those people who have dreams and want to put them into action."

In addition to his professional work, Campanella is the Treasurer of The Caltanissetta Society of Rochester, an organization that provides charitable contributions to families in need of medical funding assistance for an ill child. He is also a member of the Italian-American Sports Club of Rochester, the Italian-American Business Network, and the Greece Chamber of Commerce.

Currently residing in Gates, NY, Campanella holds a bachelor of business administration degree in finance and marketing from Saint John Fisher College. He is married to his wife Stella and they have six children. In his spare time, he enjoys golf, bowling and spending time with his family.

He is looking forward to his new role as a BEST Center advisor and hopes to help individuals understand what is required to start and own a small business.

For more information about the BEST Center, to register for one of the upcoming workshops, or to make an appointment with a counselor, call (585) 345-6868.

From Genesee Community College:

Robert Boyce of LeRoy, Broker/Consultant, Tompkins Insurance, and an active member of the Genesee Community College Foundation, volunteers as general chair of the Genesee Community College Foundation's 2008-2009 annual campaign, Our Best Investment.

At the opening meeting, Boyce remarked that his College involvement is a natural extension of his interest in helping the region reach its potential. He said, "As a community, we need to recognize that we can help the region prosper by attracting and retaining our residents and by training them in jobs that support the local economy. Today, more than ever, we can truly make a difference in the lives of students as well as invest in a stronger future for our region."

At the meeting, he introduced the chairs assisting him in reaching the campaign's $364,750 goal.

Community divisions are chaired by:

Wyoming: David DeLavergne, Senior Vice President, The Bank of Castile, Perry Office
Livingston: Les Cole, President, Commodity Resource Corporation, Caledonia
Genesee: Michael Grammatico of Batavia, Financial Advisor, Merrill Lynch, Inc.
Orleans: Wendy Kelly, Branch Manager, HSBC Bank USA, Albion Office
Five other divisions complete the team:

Faculty and Staff: Ray and Patty Chaya of Batavia and co-chair Marirose Ethington of Pavilion
Leadership: Roger Christiano of Batavia, Foundation Board member, Christiano Cellular
Alumni: Lori Stupp of Batavia, Regional Representative, Genesee Country United Way
Associates: Joe Teresi of Batavia, Account Executive/Vice President, Tompkins Insurance Agency
Heritage: Patrick Forsyth, CPA of Batavia
The Faculty and Staff Division is already underway. Ms. Chaya, Associate Dean of the Warsaw Campus Center, stated, "As our opportunities for providing scholarships to worthy and deserving students have increased, many of our faculty and staff see a positive influence on student achievement and are so generous to the Foundation drive giving nearly 10% of the goal. Students view scholarships as an investment in them and they want to do well. It is truly our best investment."

Ms. Stupp, a 1989 alumnus of the College stated there are nearly 20,000 alumni of Genesee. She said that she and her team of enthusiastic volunteers will contact in person, by telephone, or through the mail as many as possible.

Boyce summarized the meeting saying that the campaign theme, Our Best Investment, reflects the desire to support academic excellence in the classroom through scholarship incentives to students who have demonstrated high academic achievement, as well as to make a college education available to all capable area residents, regardless of their ability to pay. He said, "The College is an asset. As we invest, we are rewarded with better informed citizens and a well-trained labor force."

The Genesee Community College Foundation is a not-for-profit organization dedicated to providing service and support to Genesee Community College. A thirty-member board of directors is comprised of local business and civic leaders. The Foundation, formed in the mid-eighties to provide philanthropic support to the College, provided 389 scholarships to Genesee students last year totaling $301,513.

Gifts to the campaign may be sent to the Genesee Community College Foundation, One College Road, Batavia, NY 14020. Pledges may be made online at our web site www.genesee.edu. For further information, call (585) 345-6809 or write to foundation@genesee.edu.

From the Batavia VA Medical Center:

Veterans in Dunkirk and surrounding areas can learn about their VA health care and other veterans benefits at an event being held at the VA clinic in Dunkirk, 166 East Fourth Street, Saturday, January 24 from 10am to 1pm. Staff and veterans benefits counselors will assist veterans with eligibility for VA health care, and other state and federal benefits that veterans may have coming to them that often go unused. Benefits have recently been extended for veterans returning from combat that includes five years of free medical care for most conditions from the Department of Veterans Affairs.  The five year window is also open to activated Reservists and members of the National Guard, if they served in a theater of combat operations after November 11, 1998 and were discharged under other than dishonorable conditions. The five year limit has no effect upon veterans with medical conditions related to their military service. Veterans may apply at any time after their discharge from the military, even decades later for medical care for service-connected health problems.

Representatives from the VA Dunkirk Clinic, NY State Division of Veterans Affairs, Chautauqua County Veterans Service Office and VA Western New York Healthcare System will be available to answer questions. Photo identification cards will be provided to eligible veterans.  Bring discharge papers and financial records for accurate benefits counseling.  For more information, you may contact the VA clinic in Dunkirk at 203-6474.

From Genesee Community College:

Genesee Community College is kicking off the start of the spring semester with a Blood Drive on February 5 and 6 in the Forum at the Batavia campus. It is sponsored by the Student Government Association along with the American Red Cross. Each day the drive will run from 11:00 a.m. until 4:00 p.m.

As an added incentive to students and community members, the Red Cross is offering participants who donate blood during the drive a chance to win a year's subscription to NetFlix, an online DVD rental service that offers flat rate rental-by-mail and online streaming to its customers. This service offers over 100,000 DVD titles to rent with no late fees.

To give blood for transfusion to another person, a person must be healthy, be at least 17 years old, weigh at least 110 pounds, and not have donated whole blood in the last 8 weeks. "Healthy" means that a person feels well and can perform normal activities. If a person has a chronic condition such as diabetes or high blood pressure, "healthy" also means that they are being treated and the condition is under control.

"Sponsoring a Blood Drive is an excellent way to start the spring semester off on the right foot," said Joanna Barefoot, Assistant Director of Student Activities at Genesee. "We hope to encourage not only faculty and students to donate, but also the community to come together to donate for a great cause."

Pre-registration is strongly encouraged for donors. Signup sheets for donors and volunteers to work either day are available in the Student Activities office at the Batavia campus. Donors and volunteers can stop by the office, or call 585- 345-6832 to register.

For further information, please contact the office of Student Activities at 585-345-6832, or visit www.donatebloodnow.org.

From the Office of U.S. Rep. Chris Lee (NY - 26):

Congressman Chris Lee (NY-26) today commented on Barack Obama’s inauguration as the 44th President of the United States:

“It is inspiring to see Americans from all walks of life come together to mark this historic moment for our country. Today is certainly much more than another orderly transfer of power.

“President Obama’s inaugural address set the right tone for the work that lies ahead in repairing our economy and restoring the public’s trust in their government. I am hopeful that today marks the beginning of an era of progress grounded in a commitment to bipartisan solutions.

“I know my constituents join me in congratulating our new president, vice president, and their families.”

The “Take Charge” Chronic Disease Self-Management Program is an evidence-based program that was developed at Stanford University.  This program is 2.5 hours, once a week, for six weeks.  Take Charge is open to anyone in the community who is dealing with a chronic condition and wishes to enhance their ability to manage their own health care.  The program is also open to family members, friends and caregivers of those with chronic conditions.  Participants will learn how to:

Work with their doctor

Goal Setting

Problem-solving

Brainstorming

Communication Skills

Manage Fatigue and Frustration

Manage Symptoms

Relaxation Techniques

Eat well/Develop Exercise Program

The Program is FREE!

If a participant would like to keep the book and additional supplies at the end of the program, it will be $40

Follow the instructions at the website listed below to view a video about this program:

http://www.oregon.gov/DHS/ph/livingwell/video.shtml

 For more information contact:

Christi Hayden

Consumer Engagement Assistant

Lake Plains Community Care Network

56 Harvester Avenue, Third Floor, Suite 1

Batavia, NY 14020

(585)409-9077

chayden@lakeplains.org

From the Historical Society of Elba:

The Historical Society of Elba has removed the Christmas display at the Pinehill Fitness Center on Main St. in Elba.  In it's place is a display of all the items that the Society has for sale.  Many of them are at discounted prices.  The maroon and blue Elba throws are now $35.00 including tax.  T-shirts $5.00 and sweatshirts $10.00.  "Give a Gift of Elba History" for birthday, anniversary, graduation, shower, wedding or any occasion that you may have to celebrate.  The Walk Way Bricks originaly were sold to raise money to move an 1842 home(the Griffin-Hill house)into Elba.  It was set next to the Museum that was erected in the 80's.  In 2008, the Society was able to build a barn to add to the Museum complex.  We are using the money from the current sale of the bricks to help offset the cost of the barn. These are great for a permanent memorial for a loved one, organization, family etc.

The Museum is closed now for the winter but will reopen on Memorial Day following the services at the Maple Lawn Cemetery in the morning. Coffee and donuts are served at the Museum.

If anyone is interested in any Historical Society of Elba memorabilia please call Ann at 585-757-9356 or June at 585-757-2791 for more information.

Alabama Fire Dept. Chicken Barbeque

Sunday, March 22, 2009 at the Alabama Recreation Hall on Judge Road in South Alabama.

Cost is $8.00 an adult for complete meal.  Chicken only is $4.50 per half.

Menu:

1/2 Chicken, Salt Potatoes, Baken Beans, Hot Vegetable, Roll and Butter, Drink and a HOMEMADE Dessert.

Eat in or  Take Out.  Serving starts at 12 Noon.

Call the Fire Dept. to purchase tickets.  948-5760.

Attention all Batavia HS Link Crew members:

Link Crew is sponsoring Cocoa and Cram on Thursday, January 22, 2009 from 6:00-8:30 p.m. in the BHS cafeteria. This is a Freshmen-only study session for upcoming Mid-Term Exams. Cocoa and Cram is an excellent opportunity to set everything aside and prepare for midterms.   Link Leaders will be on hand to help Freshmen study and review material that will be on their exams. Free hot chocolate and cookies will be provided. Cocoa and Cram is sponsored by Dunkin Donuts and Mr. Pat Burk.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact the BHS Counseling Center at 585-343-2480 ext. 2002.

Enjoy a short stack for a tall cause! You're invited to an Applesbee's Flapjack Fundraiser breakfast to support BHS ICE DEVILS

Tickets: $5.00 and available from BHS ICE DEVILS Players.  Or call 343-0157 for tickets.

When: Feb 1, 2009, 8a.m. - 10a.m.

Were: Applebee's Neighborhood Bar & Grill 8322 Lewiston Road Batavia NY

 Come enjoy a good breakfast and help us out...Thanks!

From the Office of U.S. Rep. Chris Lee (NY-26):

Congressman Chris Lee (NY-26) issued the following statement after voting to reauthorize the State Children’s Health Insurance Program (SCHIP):

“I am proud to support legislation that strengthens SCHIP’s ability to provide children living in poverty with access to affordable health insurance. This program has a solid track record of covering children in families who don’t have enough resources to keep pace with the rising costs of health care.

“Ensuring taxpayer dollars are spent responsibly is one of my highest priorities, which is why I am pleased that this measure does not add to the federal budget deficit. At the same time, I have concerns about whether this legislation does enough to focus coverage to help children most in need. We cannot tolerate any loopholes or abuses, especially now in the middle of an economic crisis, when the situation for many families is dire. I hope the legislative process will yield a better final product that addresses these concerns and ensures that SCHIP continues to serve the needs of low-income children first.

“Today’s vote is a victory for Western New York families, but it is only a first step in our efforts to reform America’s broken health care system.”

SCHIP is a bipartisan program first established in 1997 as a joint venture between the federal government and the states to provide low-cost health insurance for children living in poverty. The measure Congressman Lee supported, the Children’s Health Insurance Program Reauthorization Act, reauthorizes the program through September 30, 2013. The bill passed the House by a final vote of 289-139; it now advances to the Senate.

To learn more about Congressman Lee and the 26th district, visit http://chrislee.house.gov.

From Genesee Community College:

The BEST Center at Genesee Community College is proud to announce new online career training programs. The BEST (Business Employee Skills Training) Center, along with ProTrain, will provide over 180 courses and several certificate programs that will help participants attain increased job productivity and new career skills. These in-demand career courses will help conquer the evolving challenges that face small businesses by increasing productivity and ROI (return on investment).

ProTrain courses are affordable and self-paced, and feature online certification to train participants for the latest job skills. The new program areas include:

• Leadership, Management, and Accounting
• IT Certifications
• Trade and Industrial
• Internet, Web, and Multimedia Design
• Healthcare Field
• IT Security
• Homeland Security
• Green, Renewable Energy

Online training programs offer flexible, anytime, anywhere learning. Nearly every program includes mentor support from an industry expert. With these online courses, participants can earn a wide variety of career skills or certificates. From a medical billing certificate to an interior design certificate, job seekers can earn a certificate to achieve today's in-demand jobs or current career-minded people can take additional courses to further their job skills, such as website development or income tax preparation.

"Online courses are an excellent opportunity for first-time career endeavors, or for people who want to switch career paths," said Jerry Kozlowski, Dean of the BEST Center. "Earning a certificate online is a cost-effective pathway to career success."

For more program information and course descriptions, please visit www.bestcenter.org and click on "Online Training". For enrollment information, contact The BEST Center at 585-345-6868 or Lauren Dickinson at 585-343-0055 Ext. 6602 or lmdickinson@genesee.edu.

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The Young Adult Book Discussion group meets at Present Tense on Friday, January 16 at 4:30 pm to talk about The Mysterious Benedict Society by Trenton Lee Stewart. Click here for more information: http://www.presenttensebooks.com/events/yabookdiscussion.php

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Lunchtime Book Group at Present Tense meets tomorrow, January 14, at noon. The book for this month is The End of the Alphabet by CS Richardson. The Lunchtime Book Group meets on the second Wednesday of each month at Present Tense.

From the Office of U.S. Rep. Chris Lee (NY - 26):

Congressman Chris Lee (NY-26) has been appointed by House Republican leaders to serve on an economic recovery solutions working group that has been tasked with developing constructive ideas to help put the nation’s economy on the path to recovery. Congressman Lee is the only newly elected member named to the working group.

“This working group provides Western New Yorkers with an opportunity to have their voices heard on the front lines of our economic recovery,” Congressman Lee said. “I believe that my business experience will help me bring to the table new ideas for creating jobs and easing the strain on middle-class families and small business owners.”

The working group is being headed up by Congressman Eric Cantor (R-VA), the House Republican Whip, who commented on Congressman Lee’s appointment: “I am pleased to announce that Congressman Lee has been selected to serve as a member of the economic solutions working group. The group was formed in response to President-elect Obama’s request that Republicans offer ideas to help put America back on the path to prosperity.”

Congressman Cantor is the second-ranking House Republican.
 
“The ultimate goal of this working group is to present ideas to the President-elect and Democrat leaders that could be included in a bipartisan economic recovery package,” Congressman Lee added. “We should not squander this opportunity to work across party lines and craft an economic recovery package that strikes the right balance between short-term stimulus and long-term growth.”

As part of his participation in the working group, Congressman Lee will attend a hearing on Thursday morning featuring top national experts and leaders, including former Gov. Mitt Romney. Gov. Romney and other panelists will offer innovative ideas and solutions to help revitalize America’s economy.
 
“As a business leader and former governor, Mitt Romney knows what Washington should – and should not – be doing to create jobs and spur future growth,” Congressman Lee added. “I look forward to hearing his ideas for how we can revitalize our economy.” 

Congressman Lee’s appointment to the working group comes less than a week after he was named to the House Financial Services Committee, which will play a leading role in creating new jobs and strengthening our economy. Financial Services is the go-to panel on housing, insurance, and banking issues; it oversees the Treasury Department, the Federal Reserve, the Securities and Exchange Commission, and mortgage giants Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac. The committee is expected to have a robust legislative agenda in addressing the severe challenges facing America’s economy and financial institutions.

To learn more about Congressman Lee and the 26th district, visit http://chrislee.house.gov.