Announcements

From chaZam marketing:

“I’m not quite cleaning up, but I’m not losing my shirt either,” jokes Chad Zambito, the new co-owner and operator of Grammy O’s Laundry located in the Valu Plaza in Batavia.  All joking aside, Zambito admits the Laundromat business is difficult, not very glamorous and nothing like his day job.  

Zambito, currently the VP of Marketing and Community Development for the Genesee County Economic Development Center, purchased the facility in March of 2008 after several conversations with his then fiancée Jennifer.  “I’ve always wanted to own my own business,” said Zambito, “And when the opportunity presented its self, Jen and I jumped on it.”  It turned out to be a big year for the couple; they were also married on October 18th. 

The Zambitos purchased the facility from Jeremy Sabatino, a local small businessman, and have been hard at work ever since.   “I really feel more like a janitor than a business owner,” added Zambito.  “Keeping the place clean is important but a bit tedious”.

Zambito, who also served as a Marketing Manager at Batavia Downs Casino, is drawing on his gaming promotions background to give the business an edge.  He has kicked off a promotion in which customers have a chance to win $100 if they can find the “Golden Quarter” at the facility.  “It’s been a big hit and I knew from my experience at The Downs how popular cash giveaways can be, plus I know its something that would bring me in to do my wash.”

The facility is named after Zambito’s mother whom passed away in 2005.  “My son called her Grammy O and we knew that was the perfect name.  Every time I clean I think; would I be ashamed to let my mother see the place like this?  If the answer is yes, I keep cleaning.”  The logo was created by Mrs. Zambito’s cousin, Batavia graduate Aaron Long of Rochester with help from another cousin, Stephanie Borgal of Batavia, an Oakfield-Alabama grad. 

With the economy taking a down turn, the couple has had to be creative to keep business steady.  They are introducing “Bargain Alley”, an area of washers that cost just $1.50 and dryers that cost $1.25. 

Apparently the entrepunerial spirit that Zambito is exposed to everyday at the GCEDC is rubbing off.  He has also launched a line of T-shirts called Father Mucker’s.  Its a funny play on words with slogans like, “My Father RAN AMUCK for a living”, which is almost true for the Elba native.  Zambito’s grandfather, Paul “Zeke” Zambito, was a muck farmer who produced potatoes and onions as part of “Five Brothers Farms”.  Zambito is donating a portion of the sales to muck land preservation.  Muck land is rich farm land that is produced when wetlands are drained and are prevalent in Genesee and Orleans Counties.  Recent media efforts have highlighted the ongoing erosion of the precious farmland.  Zambito hopes to turn the idea into a restaurant that would highlight the local farming industry.  “First I’ve got to raise the cash and then I have to convince my wife,” Zambito said with a laugh.  “I’m not sure which one will be more difficult.”  Father Mucker’s T-shirts are available on ebay or by contacting Zambito directly.

From the United Memorial Medical Center:

United Memorial Medical Center (UMMC) is sponsoring a Nurses’ Night Out event for Thursday, February 26, 2009 at Terry Hills Restaurant, 5122 Clinton Street Road, Batavia. This social and educational event is open to all nursing and pharmacy professionals.
 
Michelle Spiotta, BS, RPh, and Pharmacy Clinical Manager for United Memorial will address the 2009 Patient Safety Standard on Anticoagulation during her discussion, “Anticoagulation Management and Heparin Induced Thrombocytopenia.”
 
Registration and Social Hour will be at 5:30 pm. Dinner will begin at 7:00 pm. Attendees should reserve a seat by phoning (585)344-7432 by February 23rd.
 
Non-UMMC employees will be charged $20 per person to cover the cost of dinner.

Genesee County's Department of Health has released its 2009 schedule for anti-rabies immunization clinics. Please click here to download the document.

From Genesee Community College:

Genesee Community College is pleased to announce that Patty Hume has been named January's Employee of the Month. Patty has worked at Genesee since January 2006 and is currently the executive secretary to the Office of Development and External Affairs where she manages a wide variety of details, records, reports and schedules. Patty wears many hats and has many responsibilities in her position; she consistently remains calm and maintains a positive attitude, even during the most stressful of times. She always has a smile for everyone she meets and keeps her sense of humor.

Patty also serves as the executive secretary for Genesee's Foundation Board of Directors and Genesee's Foundation Housing Services Board of Directors. Her work involves providing communication, minutes and general support to both organizations and their respective committees, as well as the reporting and regulatory paperwork for both corporations.

In addition, Patty oversees many special events, including Encore - the Foundation's annual fundraiser; the Wolcott J., Humphrey Symposium - a leadership conference held annually at Genesee; and Cruise at the College - a car/truck show held in July at the Batavia campus. She is also a volunteer member of Genesee's United Way Committee. With the wide range of responsibilities, Patty has shown exceptional organizational skills and a keen attention to detail. She always displays the highest level of professionalism in her interactions, representing the College with the utmost integrity.

Patty received A.A.S. degree from Genesee in 1988 in Office Technology and prior to working at Genesee, Patty worked as the Office Manager at VanDerHorst Geotechnical Engineering in Rochester, was the Donor Relations Manager at The Nature Conservancy in Rochester and was the Executive Secretary at Young Audiences of Rochester.

A resident of LeRoy, NY, Patty enjoys spending time with her husband Ted, son Aiden and stepson Adam. She also enjoys reading, hiking and gardening.

"I really enjoy what I do here at Genesee," said Patty. "The friendly, helpful staff and faculty are my favorite aspect of working here."

Photo Caption: Patty Hume (middle) with President Steiner (left) and Richard Ensman, Director of Development and External Affairs (right)

DRAWING WILL BE HELD AT T.F. BROWN'S (Main St., Batavia) at 7 PM on Friday, Feb. 6th. 

GET YOUR TICKETS NOW!  One Chance for $20 or two for $30

DESIGN YOUR OWN PARTY!

FIVE-COURSE GOURMET DINNER FOR 10 WITH WINE PAIRINGS

HOSTED BY MICHAEL NAPOLEONE MEMORIAL FOUNDATION BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Dinner Prepared by “Chef” Mark Napoleone and Sous Chefs

Limo Service Provided (some distance restrictions)

WHO:  You and Nine of Your Friends

WHEN:  Dinner will be served-Feb. 28, 2009 Beginning at 5:00 p.m.

WHERE:  An Intimate Home Setting in Batavia

For Ticket Information Contact Joanne at 585-343-3631 or Julie at 585-356-2244

Tickets will be available at TF's on the night of the drawing.  Winners Need Not Be Present.

2nd Prize:   T.F. Brown’s/Bowling Alley $100 Gift Certificate

3rd Prize:  T.F. Brown’s/Bowling Alley $50 Gift Certificate

Proceeds benefit the Michael Napoleone Memorial Foundation, Inc. to "Lend a Hand for Hope".   www.michaelshope.org

From the VA Medical Center:

VA Western New York Healthcare System will hold a service for veterans, employees and the community, Sunday, February 1 at 2 p.m. at the Buffalo site, 3495 Bailey Avenue in Freedom Hall, room 301 in remembrance of the Four Chaplains who lost their lives during an extraordinary act of heroism during World War II. Lt. Colonel Allen Douglas Ferry, New York Air Reserve National Guard (retired), and Bronze Star Recipient for combat service and Legion of Merit will deliver the keynote address. At this special event, the Legion of Honor award presentation will also take place. 

The four Chaplains, a Methodist Minister, Jewish Rabbi, Dutch Reformed Church, and Catholic Priest were on a US Army transport ship hit by a German torpedo off the icy waters of Greenland in February 1943. When it became apparent there were not enough life jackets, the four US Army Chaplains removed theirs and handed them to frightened young soldiers, and chose to go down with the ship. They locked arms together and prayed in the tradition of their own faith. Of the 902 on board, there were only 227 survivors. They demonstrated throughout the voyage and in their last moments, interfaith compassion in their relationship with the men on board and with each other.

From the Batavia Muckdogs:

The Genesee County Baseball Club will hold its annual Batavia Muckdogs Hot Stove dinner and auction on Friday, February 20, 2009, from 5:30 p.m.-8:30 p.m. at the Batavia Party House at 5762 East Main Street Road in Stafford.
 
The dinner, a highlight of the winter for the local baseball faithful, arrives during an off-season of great optimism for Batavia fans: The Muckdogs were the 2008 New York –Penn League champs, the first time Batavia has won the league title since 1963; and the coming season will be the second in which the team is operated under a cooperative agreement with the highly respected Rochester Community Baseball, owner of the Rochester Red Wings.
   
The Hot Stove Dinner is a time for good food, friendship, baseball talk, and silent and live auctions of mostly baseball-related memorabilia.  Items to be auctioned this year include autographed baseballs, bats, and photographs; work by noted local artists John Hodgins and Don Carmichael and woodworker Clyde Starkweather; and gift certificates from a variety of local restaurants.
  
Tickets cost $25 ($15 for children 12 and under) and may be purchased in Batavia at Dwyer Stadium, the Holland Land Office, Gerace’s Hair Care, the Williams Law Firm, and the office of Dr. Ross Fanara, and in Oakfield from the office of Dr. Alan Barcomb.

From Richmond Memorial Library:

Chocolate Saturday, Feb.14th, 10:30am at the Richmond Memorial Library, Batavia. Join us in the Children’s Room for valentine crafts, games and snack. Bring the family, all ages are welcome. Please register, we want to have enough chocolate. Call 343-9550 x4.

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.