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events

Fly-In Breakfast set for June 21 at airport

By Billie Owens

The Batavia Rotary Club’s annual Fly-In Breakfast is set for Sunday, June 21. The Fly-In Breakfast is open to the public and features an all-you-can-eat meal and visits by private aircraft throughout the morning.

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Bikers wanted for Crossroads House Charity Ride

By Billie Owens

Sunday Aug. 2 is when this year's Crossroads House Charity Ride takes place. It benefits the comfort home for the dying in Batavia.

The ride will be held in memory of Dennis Bateman, who was South Byron Assistant Fire Chief and Red Knight Member. Stan's Harley-Davidson, Inc., is the sponsoring dealership.

The self-guided ride begins at Stan's, located at 4425 W. Saile Drive in Batavia. It's off Route 98 just north of the Thruway. The ride ends at the South Byron Fire Department at 7389 Route 237 in South Byron.

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Barbecue and fun to benefit children

By Billie Owens

Clor's and the Rite Aid on West Main Street in Batavia is holding a barbecue to benefit for Children's Miracle Network, which supports Women and Children's hospital of Buffalo.

This is the 2nd annual cookout for kids. It will take place from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday, May 17.

There will be live music from "The Red Hot Trio," 50/50, four gift-bag raffles, balloons and fun for all ages.

Clor's chicken BBQ is $8. Raffle tickets are one for $3 or two for $5. The Rite Aid is located at 4155 W. Main St.

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Local children perform musical at GCC

By Billie Owens

The musical "You're A Good Man, Charlie Brown," performed and staged by local children, is set for 2 p.m. Saturday, July 25. General admission tickets are available at the Summer Special Price of $5. For ticket reservations or additional performance information, contact the Box Office at (585) 343-0055 x6814, or by email to BoxOffice@genesee.edu.

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Children perform musical at GCC

By Billie Owens

The musical "You're A Good Man, Charlie Brown," performed and staged by local children, is set for 7 p.m. Friday, July 24. A matinee is also offered at 2 p.m. Saturday, July 25. General admission tickets are available at the Summer Special Price of $5. For ticket reservations or additional performance information, contact the Box Office at (585) 343-0055 x6814, or by email to BoxOffice@genesee.edu.

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Meeting to promote a smoke-free Genesee County

By Billie Owens

The next meeting of Smoke Free Genesee will be held from noon to 1:15 p.m. Wednesday, May 13 at Bohn's Restaurant.

To attend, call 815-1871 or or email -- clewis@gcasa.org.

The restaurant is located at 5256 Clinton St. in Batavia.

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College admissions info for LeRoy parents

By Billie Owens

The LeRoy School District will hold an information session about college admissions Wednesday, May 6.

It's for parents of middle- and high-school students. It will take place at 7 p.m. in the library of the junior/senior high school, located at 9300 South St. in LeRoy. Phone is 765-8131.

Tonya Lane-Marten, admissions director at Genesee Community College, will lead the session.

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Darien Lake Theme Park to open

By Billie Owens

Darien Lake Theme Park Resort opens for the season Saturday, May 9. Guests this weekend pay $14.99 for both days with a Welcome Back coupon. The coupons are available at the main gate and at various businesses.

Raven-Symone will perform Saturday, which will be the first of three family friendly midway concerts in May. Varsity FanClub will perform May 16 with a special appearance by Jordan Pruitt. Mitchel Musso of Hannah Montana will close out this Season Pass Bash on May 30.

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Kiwanis Spaghetti Dinner Tonight!

By Howard B. Owens

Tonight from 5:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. the Kiwanis Club of Batavia will be hosting a spaghetti dinner at the YWCA, 301 North Street in Batavia.

Tickets will be available at the door and are $8 for adults and $4 for children (12 and under.) People attending dinner or take out dinners will receive one door prize ticket.

Proceeds are used to support various youth organizations in the community.

For more information: www.BataviaKiwanis.com

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Talk on history of Klan in the region

By Howard B. Owens

Ray Cianfrini of Oakfield, will present a program on the  history of the 
"Ku Klux Klan" that existed in Western New York/Genesee County at one time. 
Cianfrini will speak at the April 2nd meeting of the Historical Society of 
Elba. It will be held at the Museum on Maple Ave. Ext. (blue building next to 
Maple Lawn Cemetery.
\\

Cookies/coffee will be served at 6:30 followed by the program at 7 p.m.  A 
short meeting will follow.

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Alvin Parker speaks about Iroquois

By Howard B. Owens

Alvin Parker  speaks about the Iroquois, their history and culture at Genesee County Park & Forest Interpretive Nature Center, 11095 Bethany Center Rd. Alvin is a member of the Heron clan and a descendant of Handsome Lake and Red Jacket.

Cost is $5 per person or $10 per family.

Pre-registration required. For more information and to register, call (585) 344-1122

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Batavia Business and Professional Women's Club

By

The Batavia Business Women's Club will hold their April 2 Dinner Meeting at  Batavia Downs, in the Board Room. Your choice of Steak or Chicken Entrees, $12. The guest speaker will be Genesee County Clerk, Don Read. Please RSVP by March 30 to Mary Ellen at 343-1610 or Diane at 343-1423 ext. 230.

HLOM Antique Show Starts Today at Batavia Downs!

By Holland Land Office Museum

The HLOM Antique Show and Sale begins today at 5:00 p.m. at Batavia Downs.

Over 40 dealers will be setting up booths selling all types of antiques.

Admission for this fundraiser is $4.00. ($1.00 off coupons are available at www.BataviaAntiqueShow.com

The hours of the show is today from 5:00 p.m. until 9:00 p.m and tomorrow from 10:00 a.m. until 4:00 p.m.

See you there!

 

 

 

 

Spring events at the Extension

By Philip Anselmo

From the Cornell Cooperative Extension:

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.  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. Listen to 1180 WHAM AM Radio in case of bad weather for cancellation notice.

March 11 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 16 to 20 - 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 or you can visit the Ag in the Classroom website at: www.nyaged.org/aitc.

March 20 - Registration deadline for Incubation and Embryology Project for the Classroom
Welcome to the Genesee County 4-H Incubation and Embryology Project. This interdisciplinary project is designed to provide youth with a “hands on” experience while classroom teachers have the opportunity to satisfy science, math and ELA core requirements.  If you have questions or are interested about the Incubation and Embryology project, please contact Barb Sturm at (585)343-3040 x122 or via email bbs28@cornell.edu.

March 21 - 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. This event is sold out!

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.

March 27 - Entries due locally to Barb Sturm for the "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.

March 28 - Finger Lakes Region - 4-H Dairy Bowl Contest
The 2009 Finger Lakes Region - 4-H Dairy Bowl Contest will be held at the Cornell Cooperative Extension in Ontario County, 480 North Main Street, Canandaigua.  Registration will begin at 9:30 a.m., Contest will start at 10:00 a.m.  The primary objective of this event is to provide an educational experience for youth enrolled in a 4-H dairy project to demonstrate their knowledge of dairy related subject matter in a competitive setting where attitudes of friendliness and fairness prevail.  County Entries are due March 6, 2009. If you are interested in more information about this contest, please contact Barb Sturm at (585) 343-3040, ext. 122 or via e-mail at:  bbs28@cornell.edu.

March 28 - Finger Lakes Region - 4-H Horse Extravaganza
The 2009 Finger Lakes Region 4-H Horse Extravaganza will take place at Canandaigua Middle School, Canandaigua, NY.  Local youth wil demonstrate their horse knowledge in Hippology and Horse Bowl Contests. The primary objective of this contest is to provide an opportunity for Region II youth to demonstrate the breadth of their equine knowledge in a competitive setting where attitudes of friendliness and fairness prevail. We hope that this contest will generate a rewarding experience for the 4-H members. If you are interested in more information about this contest, please contact Barb Sturm at (585) 343-3040, ext. 122 or via e-mail at:  bbs28@cornell.edu.

April 9 from 6 to 8 pm - Coffee & Dessert Series - "Organic Vegetable Gardening"
Held at Cornell Cooperative Extension of Genesee County.  Cost is $10.00 and includes presentation, handouts, and homemade desserts.  Pre-registration is required. Organic Vegetable Gardening will be taught by Dale Jacobs, Master Gardener and owner of an organic fruit and vegetable business "Crooked Creek" Farms.  Vegetables should be part of everyone's diet. If you don't want to spend a little more for those organically grown and sold in the supermarket, perhaps you should consider planting your own garden.  It is very easy and even a project your children can join in on and have fun doing. If you are interested in the Coffee & Dessert Series brochure or need more information, please contact Amy Berry at (585) 343-3040, ext. 106 or via e-mail at ame29@cornell.edu.

April 16 from 6 to 8 pm - Coffee and Dessert Series - "Annuals and Bedding Plants"
Held at Cornell Cooperative Extension of Genesee County.  Cost is $10.00 and includes presentation, handouts, and homemade desserts.  Pre-registration is required. Christine Quataert, Master Gardener will be talking about annuals and bedding plants, with their seemingly infinite variety of flower colors and plant forms fit into almost any landscape situation  They provide the necessary touch of color to an often drab landscape.  These plants can be grown in containers to add a splash of color to a porch, deck or patio area.  They can also be enjoyed as fresh or dry cut flowers, as well as be a very rewarding hobby. If you are interested in the Coffee & Dessert Series brochure or need more information, please contact Amy Berry at (585) 343-3040, ext. 106 or via e-mail at ame29@cornell.edu.

April 23 from 6 to 8 pm - Coffee & Dessert Series - "Spring Birds" (Back by popular demand) Held at Cornell Cooperative Extension of Genesee County.  Cost is $10.00 and includes presentation, handouts, and homemade desserts.  Pre-registration is required. Back by popular demand, Jan Beglinger, Master Gardener and member of the Buffalo Audubon Society, will be talking about Spring Birds.  Spring brings changes at the bird-feeder, but even more exciting birds that visit other parts of the backyard.  Spring often starts with the departure of old friends that have spent the winter with us.  Do you recognize the spring birds that show up at your feeder?  Are they different from the birds you see in the summer, fall and winter?  Our “birding” expert master gardener will help you identify different birds and show you how to attract them to your yard.If you are interested in the Coffee & Dessert Series brochure or need more information, please contact Amy Berry at (585) 343-3040, ext. 106 or via e-mail at ame29@cornell.edu.

April 25 - 4-H Cloverbud Round Up
If you are interested in more information or to register, please contact Amy Berry at (585) 343-3040, ext. 106 or via e-mail at ame29@cornell.edu.

May 1 - Deadline for 4-H Giant Pumpkin Contest
The contest is open to any 4-H'er/4-H Family in Genesee County.  If you want to have fun, learn about horticulture, and challenge yourself, join 4-H'ers who will grow a giant or tiny pumpkin in spring/summer (125 days to grow) in home gardens or in container gardens all over the county.  We will be using giant and small seeds. The Giant variety is "Dill's Atlantic Giant" or tiny pumpkin varieties includes "Baby Boo" or " Jack-Be-Little".  You can buy your own seeds or we can provide you with them. Educational materials will also be provided to each participant. Weigh-in will be in September (location to be determined).  Register by May 1st.  If you are interested in more information or to register, please contact Amy Berry at (585) 343-3040, ext. 106 or via  e-mail at: ame29@cornell.edu.

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. 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.

Winter events at the Extension

By Philip Anselmo

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.

Batavia Business and Professional Women's Club

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The February meeting for the Batavia Business & Professional Women's Club will meet on Thursday, February 5, 2009 at St. James Church, E. Main St., Batavia. A Fish Fry dinner will be served for $10.00. Social time begins at 5:30 p.m., with dinner to follow at 6:15. The program will be "A Cake Walk." Bring a cake to participate in this fun activity. Contact Diane Burroughs at 343-0759 for reservations by Feb. 2.

Spagetti Dinner & Live Auction

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St. Paul Lutheran Church & School, 31 Washington Ave, Batavia, will hold it's Annual Spagetti Dinner & Live Auction on Sat., Feb. 7. Dinner will be served from 5:00 - 7:00. All tickets are $5. Homemade desserts available for an additional cost. Live Auction will follow dinner. Items to be auctioned include, Buffalo Sabre Tickets, Handmade Quilts, Baked Goods and many other items too numerous to mention. Don't miss the fun!

Looking for something to do...?

By Philip Anselmo

If you're looking for something to do to keep from going stir crazy this winter, you may want to visit our Announcements section. We've always got fresh info posted on upcoming events and happenings around the county. Just today we got up event listings for Richmond Memorial Library and the Cornell Cooperative Extension. Lots going at both. Be sure to check them out!

For those of you hosting happenings, there are instructions on the Announcements page on how to post your news to that section. For more detailed video instructions on posting your own blog, please visit our Help page.

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