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Announcements

Revived Wolcott Street School PTSO meets Dec. 10 to plan spring fundraiser

By Billie Owens

A revived Wolcott Street School Parent Teacher Service Organization has elected new officers, and will meet Dec. 10 to begin planning for a spring fundraiser.

The Wolcott Street PTSO nearly dissolved this year, after the resignation of several longtime officers left the organization without enough volunteers to effectively continue. The Le Roy school issued a call for volunteers, and new officers were elected at a PTSO meeting on Nov. 26.

Elected to one-year terms were:

— President: Julie Ehrmentraut
— Vice President: Ray Coniglio
— Treasurer: Brittany Morse
— Secretary: Holly Eschberger

The next PTSO meeting will be from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. Dec. 10 in the staff dining room at Wolcott Street School, 2-6 Trigon Park. (Park off Trigon Park and enter through the loading-dock doors.)

The agenda includes planning a spring fundraiser.

The PTSO funds or supports many activities at Wolcott Street School, including book fairs, field trips and more. Each year, the organization provides grants to support projects that directly benefit all students from pre-kindergarten through 12th grade.

The PTSO welcomes the participation of parents/guardians of Wolcott Street students.

For more information call Assistant Principal Jonathan Wilson at 768-7115.

Photo exhibit on Ireland by Batavia native on display at Stuart Steiner Theater

By Billie Owens

An Ireland Study Abroad photography exhibit entitled "Thirty Shades of Ireland Through the Lens of Brittany Morelli" is on display in the lobby of the Stuart Steiner Theater until Thursday.

Morelli, a native of Batavia and photography major at SUNY Fredonia, displays her photographs from a trip to Ireland as part of the GCC Study Abroad program.

"This exhibit features varying perspectives of Irish culture which include architecture, landscape and farm life. These photographs were inspired from my most recent trip to Ireland that was taken through Genesee Community College's study abroad," Morelli said.

The exhibit sponsored by the GCC Study Abroad in Ireland program, which will host its third study abroad trip to Ireland from May 28th to June 12th. For further information, go to: http://www.genesee.edu/academics/studyabroad/programs/Ireland.cfm
 

Free lecture at GCC on William Seward 'Lincoln's Indispensable Man'

By Billie Owens

A free lecture on William Seward will be given by Walter Stahr at Genesee Community College beginning at 7 p.m. on Wednesday, Dec. 5. It will take place in the Conable Technology Building, T102.

History and culture enthusiasts of all ages would appreciate this lecture.

As part of GCC's Civil War Initiative, Stahr will share excerpts from his new published biography entitled, "Seward: Lincoln's Indispensable Man."

The book has already reaped critical acclaim with James McPherson, famous Civil War historian and author of "Battle Cry of Freedom" stating: "After a rocky start during which Seward crossed swords with Lincoln in the issue of Fort Sumter and other matters, the secretary of state did indeed become the president's most indispensable ally. Politician, diplomat, raconteur, a figure of controversy and power, Seward has finally found a biographer equal to his importance."

Presidential historian Doris Kearns Goodwin also noted: "This magnificent biography finally provides what William Henry Seward so justly deserves -- a full, terrific and complex portrait of his endlessly fascinating life."

Stahr also wrote a biography of John Jay, one of our nation's founding fathers and the first Chief Justice of the United States.

For further information: http://walterstahr.com/media-room/ Copies of Stahr's book will be available for sale at the event and Stahr has graciously agreed to autograph copies immediately following his talk.

The free lecture is part of GCC's ongoing initiative exploring the Civil War. You can learn more about it by visiting the history department's blog: http://civilwaratgcc.wordpress.com/.

Pet photo op in Clarence to benefit Genesee County shelter animals

By Billie Owens

Pet portraits to benefit the Genesee County Animal Shelter will be offered from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. this Saturday, Dec. 1, at the USA Bird Supply, 11163 Main Road, in Clarence.

Come and get a photo of your pet or you with you pet for only a $5 donation, which will go to animals in the local shelter. Volunteers For Animals is sponsoring the event in conjunction with USA Bird Supply and Jay Terkel Photography.

Dr. Abdul L. Rathor to retire from UMMC

By Billie Owens

Press release:

Respected local physician, Abdul Rathor, M.D., has announced his planned retirement from United Memorial’s Cardiology and Internal Medicine practice effective Nov. 30.

Dr. Rathor began practicing in Batavia in September 1975 after completing a Fellowship in Cardiology at Albert Einstein Medical Center, a Residency in Internal Medicine at Grasslands Hospital in Valhalla and an Internship at Flushing Hospital. He was a 1965 graduate of King Edward Medical College in Lahare, Pakistan.

Dr. Rathor has served in many healthcare leadership roles including chief of Cardiology for Genesee Memorial. During the merger period of Genesee Memorial and St. Jerome Hospitals, Dr. Rathor joined in practice with Dr. Keun Oh and Dr. Midul Khan forming Genesee Cardiology and Internal Medicine at 229 Summit Street, Batavia.

In 2011, following the retirements of Dr. Kahn and Dr. Oh, the practice became affiliated with United Memorial and Cardiologist Syed A. Shah, M.D., joined the practice.

To provide continuity of care, Susan Riner, N.P., will continue to care for patients and Michael D. Merrill, M.D., has started practicing at United Memorial Cardiology and Internal Medicine. Dr. Merrill serves as the vice president of Medical Affairs for United Memorial and was a hospitalist for the Endion Hospitalist Group.

Patients of Dr. Rathor may choose to continue with Dr. Merrill at the practice or contact the office to have their medical records transferred.

“Dr. Rathor’s day-to-day presence, care and clinical expertise will be greatly missed by his patients and colleagues. We appreciate his many decades of dedicated service and wish him well in his retirement,” said UMMC President and CEO Mark Schoell.

For additional information or to schedule an appointment, patients may call (585) 344-4440.

Knitters' class on Celtic cable stitch at Richmond library

By Billie Owens

Celtic Cable Scarf Class at Richmond Memorial Library

Learn an easy technique to master knitting the Celtic cable stitch. This class for intermediate knitters is taught by Linda Daviau. It takes place from 6 to 8 p.m. on Tuesday, Nov. 27, and registration is required.

Knitters must know how to work a basic cable. Registration is required to attend.

Please call the library at 343-9550 to register. Participants are asked to bring sport weight or worsted weight yard and size 7 or 8 needles.

More information is available in the library and at www.batavialibrary.org.

FYI: Current version of GED test expires at end next year

By Billie Owens

Press release:

GED Testing Service, based in Washington, D.C., announced the launch of its campaign, Your Future is Calling, to alert test-takers who need to finish the GED test by the end of 2013. The current version of the test—the 2002 Series GED Test—will expire at the end of 2013, along with incomplete test scores.

“More than a million adults have started but not finished the current GED test,” said Nicole Chestang, executive vice president of GED Testing Service. “As a nation, we cannot afford to let millions of working-aged adults miss this opportunity to complete and pass the GED test, opening doors to college, training, and better jobs.”

Those interested in joining the campaign can sign up online at GEDtestingservice.com/jointhecampaign.

On the campaign site you can find talking points, outreach strategies, and print materials to help inform test-takers of this deadline and opportunity. GED test-takers can find more information at finishtheGED.com, or by visiting one of their local adult education or GED testing centers.

The GED test contains five parts that can be taken separately, but must all be passed to receive a high-school credential. GED test-takers who have started the 2002 Series GED Test, but not finished and passed every section, have until the end of 2013 to do so. Otherwise, their scores will expire, and they will have to start over again with the new 2014 GED test.

The new test will be based on emerging national and state standards. It will offer dual performance levels where test-takers can earn the high-school equivalency credential as well as an additional endorsement that indicates career- and college-readiness. The test will be delivered solely on computer and offered only in official testing centers.

Last year, nearly 800,000 adults sat for the GED test, which is accepted by virtually all U.S. colleges and employers. As the creator of the only official GED test, GED Testing Service has a responsibility to ensure that the program continues to be a reliable and valuable pathway to a better life for the millions of adults without a high-school diploma.

Currently, 24 states offer the GED test on computer at authorized testing centers. The GED test on computer is the same 2002 series GED test that is currently offered on paper and pencil. Test-takers must take the GED test – whether on paper or computer – in person at an official GED testing center. The GED test is never offered online.

Historic marker to be dedicated at site of former Trumbull Cary mansion

By Billie Owens

On Thursday, Nov. 29, at 1 p.m., members of the public are invited to a dedication of an historic marker for the Trumbull Cary Mansion, formerly at 211 E. Main St.

Ceremonies will begin at Go-Art, 201 E. Main St.

Nicole Walter of the William G. Pomeroy Foundation, the organization that funded the marker, will speak briefly. Her remarks will be followed by those of Larry D. Barnes, Batavia city historian. Barnes will present a biographical sketch of Trumbull Cary and outline the history of the mansion.

Afterward, the event will move to 211 E. Main St. where Sallie Fogarty, a great-great-great granddaughter of Trumbull Cary will unveil the marker. The mansion was built in 1817 and torn down in 1964.

Info session at GCC to focus on scholarships, grants to train for advanced manufacturing jobs

By Billie Owens

This information is from Genesee Community College:

Skilled workers are in great demand for good-paying advanced manufacturing jobs. Unlike traditional production or "unskilled labor" jobs, they require specialized skills, a higher level of training and offer a more flexible approach to creating products.

Anyone interested in a new career to meet this growing demand should attend an information session at Genesee Community College at 6 p.m. on Wednesday, Nov. 28. It will be held in T119 of the Conable Technology Building.

Find out about a new GCC scholarship for a one-credit class in engineering and also a new government grant that covers the costs of a two-year degree in engineering, biotechnology or computerized drafting.

"This is a terrific program for anyone interested in launching an in-demand and profitable career," said GCC Engineering instructor Ronald Schumacher. "An engineering background opens a lot of doors, and with the grants and scholarships offered by GCC, there's no better time to take advantage of this opportunity!"

The new GCC Scholarship covers the cost of the one-credit course, EGR 100 (Introduction to Engineering), which is be offering for the first time during the Spring 2013 semester.

Qualified applicants can receive a $200 scholarship that covers tuition for the eight-week course, which examines the pathway of engineered products from concept and design to production and marketing.

Engineering concepts in all disciplines will be reviewed -- including aerospace, architecture, biomedical, civil, chemical, computer, electrical, environmental, mechanical and nuclear -- and there will be presentations by working engineers and visits to production facilities.

The class will be held from 1:25 to 3:25 p.m. on Wednesdays in room D362 from March 17 through May 11 at the Batavia campus.

To apply for the EGR100 Scholarship go to http://www.genesee.edu/offices/finaid/scholarships/ and complete the online Foundation scholarship.

In addition, a one-page essay is required that reflects on why the applicant is interested in the field of engineering and in the Spring 2013 EGR 100 course. It should be sent to Ronald Schumacher, GCC's instructor of Engineering at rschumacher@genesee.edu. The scholarship application deadline is Feb. 19.

Also at the upcoming information session students can find out if they qualify to earn an associate degree for free through the Advanced Manufacturing Career Pathways Project. It aims to connect students interested in science with existing or emerging new manufacturing industries in the nine-county Finger Lakes region.

GCC is among select colleges now offering Pathways Project grants of up to $8,500 to cover tuition, books and other fees for eligible students to earn a two-year degree in engineering, biotechnology or computerized drafting.

The grants are a new state and federal initiative of the New York and U.S. Department of Labor and are available through Finger Lakes Workforce Investment Board, GLOW Workforce Investment Board, and Rochester Works! It is open to those who meet the following criteria:

•     At least 18 years of age

•     High school diploma or G.E.D.

•     Unemployed

For further information or to sign up for the information session on Nov. 28, contact Kelly Stone at 343-0055, ext. 6215, or kmstone@genesee.edu.

Batavia doctor to speak on celiac disease and gluten intolerance

By Billie Owens

Gastroenterologist, Jeffrey Goldstein, MD, will discuss and answer questions related to celiac disease and gluten intolerance at a free community health talk sponsored by United Memorial Medical Center from 6:30 to 8 p.m. on Nov. 27.

This event will be held in the Healthy Living Classroom in Cary Hall, 211 E. Main St., Batavia.

Celiac disease is an autoimmune disorder triggered by the gluten protein, commonly found in wheat products. As many as two million Americans, or one in 133 people, are estimated to be affected by the illness.

Dr. Goldstein has been a member of the United Memorial medical staff for nearly two years. He is board certified in gastroenterology and opened a private practice in Batavia on Nov. 12, which is located at 229 Summit St., suite 8.

To reserve a seat for this community health talk, please call Healthy Living at 344-5331.

Batavia doctor speaks on celiac disease and gluten intolerance

By Billie Owens

Gastroenterologist, Jeffrey Goldstein, MD, will discuss and answer questions related to celiac disease and gluten intolerance at a free community health talk sponsored by United Memorial Medical Center from 6:30 to 8 p.m. on Nov. 27.

This event will be held in the Healthy Living Classroom in Cary Hall, 211 E. Main St., Batavia.

Celiac disease is an autoimmune disorder triggered by the gluten protein, commonly found in wheat products. As many as two million Americans, or one in 133 people, are estimated to be affected by the illness.

Event Date and Time
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Wanted: socks, hats and gloves for the needy

By Billie Owens

A "sock, hat and glove drive" -- with all donations going to benefit Community Action and the less fortunate in our area -- will be held from 1 to 6 p.m. on Sunday, Nov. 18 at Maurices. The clothing store is located on West Main Street in the Tops Market Plaza.

Erin Coles is coordinating the event.

"'Tis the season of giving," Coles said. "Come out and donate a pair of socks, gloves or a hat...We need items for all ages. New and gently used items only please. See you there!"

Cancer benefit this Saturday for Paul Lamendola

By Billie Owens

A cancer benefit for Paul Lamendola will be held at the Batavia Country Club from 1 to 6 p.m. on Saturday, Oct. 27. Cost is a $10 donation per dinner, which includes pulled pork roast and two sides, plus beverage.

There will also be a 50/50 raffle and Chinese auction.

Paul has been fighting colon cancer since March. He has been laid off from work, lost his medical insurance, and has very expensive medical costs for medicine, surgery and equipment. Please come out and support Paul in his journey.

Paul is believing for full healing and recovery during this trying time in his life. We want to take this day and celebrate how far he has come through this already!

Come out and have some fun with us! The country club is located at 7909 Batavia Byron Road.

For presale tickets contact Andrea Agan at (585) 813-6586 or Paul Lamendola at (585) 331-0669 or send check to Paul Lamendola at 7470 Batavia Byron Road, Byron NY 14422.

Grand View Cemetery taking orders for Christmas wreaths to fund cemetery care

By Billie Owens

The Grand View Cemetery Board of Directors is selling Christmas wreaths either for your door or a grave. This is a fundraiser with the profits going to fund cemetery care.

Wreaths are 22" with red velvet, weatherproof bow, pine cones and holly berries. Wreaths are $20, including an easel stand if desired. Place orders by Nov. 10.

Pickup will be at the cemetery garage from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Dec. 10. Orders may be placed by calling 343-0350 or 343-0877.

GO ART! hosts workshop on fundraising and development for local organizations

By Billie Owens

GO ART! continues its new workshop series “Embracing Innovation: The Business of the Arts” with a presentation on Wednesday, Nov. 14, by Mark Peterson, president and CEO of Greater Rochester Enterprise.

The approximately two-hour workshop is titled "Fundraising and Development for the Local Organization."

It will begin at 9 a.m. at GO ART!, 201 E. Main St. in Downtown Batavia. Light refreshments will be available.

Peterson will share the knowledge he has gained through his various fundraising and development experiences. He will describe strategies that will be useful for “small-town” organizations and those starting out at the grassroots level.

A certified fund-raising executive (CFRE) since 1992, Peterson has an impressive history of garnering substantial monies at several first-class nonprofit organizations totaling more than $120 million.

This workshop is free for GO ART! members. There is a nominal fee for non-members or organizations wishing to attend: $10/individual or $20/organization (up to three attending).

You may pay over the phone, online, or at the door, but advance reservations are required by calling (585) 343-9313 or email info@goart.org.

For more information on the workshop series and future workshops in the series, please visit www.GOart.org

Soccerween 2012 with all teams in costume is Saturday at Batavia Sports Park

By Billie Owens

New York Premiere Soccer is holding "Soccerween 2012" this Saturday, Oct. 27, at the Batavia Sports Park.

Age groups are U7 through U13 and all participating teams are guaranteed three games and all teams compete in Halloween costumes. The best dressed teams for each age will win a prize.

For more information, contact Brian Patterson at bpatterson@newyorkpremieresoccer.com or 292-0788.

Classic silent flick 'The Hunchback of Notre Dame' will be shown at St. James Church

By Billie Owens

St. James Episcopal Church presents a special holiday Spooktacular by showing the silent movie classic "The Hunchback of Notre Dame." Charles Bradley will play the organ in concert with the movie.

It starts at 7 p.m., Saturday, Oct. 27, at the church, located at 405 E. Main St. in the City of Batavia.

Tickets are $10 and the money will benefit the bell tower restoration fund.

The 1923 American film released by Universal Pictures is based on the novel by Victor Hugo. It centers on the tortured life of Quasimodo, a deformed, deaf and half-blind bell-ringer at the Cathedral of Norte Dame in Paris in the 15th Century.

It is known for its spectacular sets and the performance and makeup artistry of Lon Chaney Sr. He was a well-known actor but his portrayal of Quasimodo made him a star and his grotesque characterization set a new benchmark for film makeup. Patsy Ruth Miller plays the lovely Esmeralda.

Phone 343-6802 for tickets or other information. Tickets may also be purchased at the door.

Novelist John Gardner's works celebrated with readings, food and fun at the Pok-A-Dot

By Billie Owens

Batavia-born novelist John Gardner will be celebrated with a night of readings, food and fun on Saturday, Oct. 27.

The John Gardner Society, in conjunction with Genesee Community College, is sponsoring the Halloween-themed celebration at 8 p.m. at the Pok-a-Dot diner at Ellicott and Liberty streets in Batavia.

Gardner, who died in a motorcycle crash near his Pennsylvania home in 1982, was a novelist, poet, critic and teacher, whose best known works include "The Sunlight Dialogues," a novel set in Batavia about brooding police chief Fred Clumly and his pursuit of a magician known as the Sunlight Man, and "Grendel," a retelling of the Beowulf legend from the monster's point of view.

He also penned three influential works on the art of writing: "On Becoming a Novelist," "The Art of Fiction," and "On Moral Fiction." For more information about the celebration, contact Bill Kauffman at (585) 757-2455 or GCC English Professor Charley Boyd at caboyd@genesee.edu.

You can also learn more about the writer by visiting the John Gardner Appreciation page on GCC's website: http://www.genesee.edu/gcc/gardner/.

Historical Society of Elba

By Amy Vlack

The HIstorical Society of Elba would like to thank all of the sponsors of the Third Annual Barn Dance that was held on October 13 In Memory of Ron Komar.  We truly appreciate our sponsors: John and Carol Torrey, Chap's Elba Diner, Boyle's Motor Sales, L&L Transmission, Earl Roth, CPA, Michelle's Bakery, Monroe Tractor, Mike Ranzenhofer, State Street Animal Hospital, Harrington's Produce, Riexinger Crop Spraying, R&W Trucking, Underhill Farms, S&S Restorations.  Thank you also to MAC & Friends, ECS Jazz Ensemble, and Kelly's Old Timers.  A big Thank you to all who attended the dance.  Thank you for your support of the Historical Society of Elba.

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