In business…
Eagle Creek Marina in Kendall will be “the” in place for boaters, once funding for a shoreline project is finalized. Jim Freemesser, owner of Eagle Creek for the past 10 years, said a proposed project would allow his marina to offer all new state-of-the-art floating docks with each dock featuring water and electric tie-ins and many of them offering telephone and cable television hook-ups. The marina was the recipient of a $562,000 Small Cities Loan that will be administered through the town. 3-27

The Town of Albion begins talks on the proposed construction of a 155,070 square foot Wal-Mart Supercenter. 2-20

Representatives from Buckman’s Car Wash presented a check in the amount of $2,068.24 to Lakeside Child Care from proceeds raised through their “Penny Power” project. This amount was collected during 2004. 3-20

Walt Eisenhauer, owner of Ledgedale Airpark, was presented a proclamation from the Town of Sweden for all his commitment, dedication and hours of hard work in keeping the airport operation the thriving enterprise it is today. Danielle Windus-Cook, councilperson and representative for the Town of Sweden, and Wayne Zyra, Monroe County Legislator, presented Eisenhauer the proclamation. 6-19

Churchville residents Elizabeth and Jerett Allen opened the Bean & Bin Antique Co-op in the former Churchville Farm and Home store. 7-31Books, books and more books! Books line the four walls, burst from the shelves that line the aisles and overflow from boxes and baskets. Over 100,000 books are what make up Mike Palozzi’s business, The Book Centre. Located in the Village Plaza in the heart of the village of Spencerport, The Book Centre buys, sells, and trades paperbacks and hardcover books along with compact discs, comic books and video tapes. Palozzi started his business over 25 years ago. 9-18

Spencerport custom motorcycle builder, Tony Cenzi, was to be featured in tire posters nationwide. 10-30

Community-wide
A sign stating “Future Home of First Bible Baptist Church” was unveiled at 990 Manitou Road. First Bible Baptist Church has acquired 96 acres of property on Manitou Road in the Town of Greece for construction of its new facility. 1-2

In their continuing quest for justice from Diaz Chemical, residents in the Village of Holley filed another law suit. Holley residents filed a suit on January 4 in the United States District Court for the Western District of New York against Novartis AG, a Swiss pharmaceutical firm, and related companies. 1-9

A hundred and more years ago, the one room schoolhouse was the hub of small towns everywhere. The schoolhouse in Adams Basin was no exception. According to historical records, the Adams Basin Schoolhouse got its start on November 7, 1826 when a local resident, Henry Robinson, deeded a piece of land to the Trustees of School District #1, Ogden, for the purpose of erecting a schoolhouse. The building was erected in 1838. 1-23

Hamlin won the 51st Annual Hamlin-Kendall Euchre Tournament by 22 points over all in Hamlin, and the cry went up, “wait til next year.” The Kendall players agreed that it was a hard fought tournament and gave truth to the old country saying that, “even a blind squirrel finds a nut now and then,” according to Kendall Town Supervisor John Becker. 2-6

Village of Brockport residents were advised they would soon see individuals dressed in orange reflective vests shoveling hydrants, shoveling sidewalks or any other number of community service projects. Village trustees unanimously agreed to reinstitute a community service program in the village for offenders who have committed crimes here. 2-13

The Village of Brockport again received accolades for its historic Victorian downtown. The last designation Brockport received came in the form of being designated a federal “Preserve America” community, an honor bestowed by First Lady Laura Bush. 2-27

The New York State Department of Transportation officials said they would begin studies to extend Route 531 further into western Monroe County. More than 100 people attended a meeting to hear updates on the proposed extension. 3-13

Lakeside Memorial Hospital medical staff physicians that were elected for office were: Mark L. Sarnov, MD, president: John P. Risolo, MD, vice president; Nancy A. Ciavarri, MD, secretary; Pankaj Garg, MD, treasurer; George R. Stefanos, MD, past president; and Robert C. Boon, MD, representative to the Monroe County Medical Society. 3-27

The medical staff of Lakeside Memorial Hospital presented their Excellence in Nursing awards to Gail Ebbs, RN, and Patricia Moran, RN. The award is based on clinical judgment, compassion in patient care and interpersonal relationships with peers, other staff and physicians. 3-27

More than 17,000 tons of contaminated soil and sediment have been removed from the tributary near the former 3M/Dynacolor site in Brockport. Yet, even with all of that work, Department of Environmental Conservation Director Sean Hanna says the clean up “isn’t finished yet.” 4-3

The Town of Riga and the Village of Churchville came together to celebrate the 133rd anniversary of Arbor Day, the national tree-planting holiday. 4-24.

The Village of Spencerport received a $70,000 grant from the Environmental Protection Fund (EPF) to restore, renovate and relocate the Rochester, Lockport and Buffalo Trolley Depot to serve as a visitor center with public restrooms, showers and laundry facilities for canal travelers. The site for the restored depot is a village-owned parcel adjacent to the barge canal on the southeast side waterfront. This project complements work developed under a previous EPF award. 4-24

Village of Brockport officials were joined by state and local officials, dignitaries and volunteers for a ribbon cutting to celebrate the opening of a new canalside Welcome Center. 5-15

For more than 20 years, members of Stop Polluting Orleans County’s (SPOC) environmental group have waged war against landfill placement in the county and they have been involved in numerous litigations. On May 6, a state Supreme Court judge dismissed a lawsuit filed against the Albion Town Board over a decision it made two years ago to deny permits for a landfill proposed in its town. The landfill would have been situated along the banks of the Erie Canal. 5-22

As renovations continued at the Clarkson Schoolhouse, Historian Mary Edwards and other members of the historical society planned a thank you celebration to honor schoolchildren from Brockport’s middle school who sold calendars as a fundraiser for the schoolhouse. 6-12

Spencerport street renovations on Coleman, Coolidge and Barrett Avenues, while an annoyance to residents, were progressing smoothly. The project began in April and was anticipated to be done in October. 6-12

Brockport Sri Lanka Tsunami relief efforts raise $6,500 for an orphanage. Members of the greater Brockport community, SUNY College at Brockport faculty, staff and students and the Brockport Methodist Church worked in a joint effort to aid Sri Lankan children who were victims of December’s tsunami. 9-11

.Broadband wireless Internet service was initiated in the Ogden Farmers’ Library, 269 Ogden Center Road. Library Trustee Corinne Goeke, a former software engineer, installed the wireless hotspot in the library on September 13, making it possible for users with wireless capable devices such as laptop computers, PDAs and cell phones, to access the Internet from all areas of the library. 9-18

Brockport Country Club owners Tim and Anna Burklew presented the Sweden Community Foundation with a $10,779 check representing the proceeds of the 2004 and 2005 Swing for the Hill Golf tournaments. The funds were to be used to expand and improve recreational opportunities in the greater Sweden community. 9-25

Eastern Orleans United Way contributed $5,000 to disaster relief in an effort to help with recovery efforts from the devastation caused by Hurricane Katrina. Eastern Orleans United Way contributed to American Red Cross-Orleans County Chapter for Disaster Relief. 10-9

Sandy Shaw was welcomed as the new director at the Holley Community Free Library on October 12. 10-30

Few individuals renew a connection to their past with more dogged consistency than Arden Travis of Spencerport. This October 10 marked 75 years – uninterrupted – of making the trek up the hill in his native town of Canisteo to where a sturdy oak tree overlooks a ravine. Every year Travis pulls out his pocket knife and carves his initials and date into the tree. 11-6

A new park lodge was constructed in Hilton to honor the Jennejahn family for their contributions to the community. 11-13

A Brockport horse whisperer builds trust in equine-human relationships. Elizabeth Oinen’s life has always revolved around horses and recently her talents have been called into service at Lollypop Farm. 11-13

Sweden residents still opposed to Wal-Mart plan. Wal-Mart officials hosted a public hearing to unveil plans for a larger site plan at the proposed supercenter. 11-20

Hamlin historian Mary Smith has compiled a history of the Town of Hamlin that encompasses 200 years. The book was offered for sale. 11-20

Surgery performed at Lakeside Memorial Hospital provided hope for a hero. Orthopaedic surgeon Dr. Michael Leit repaired severe cut damage to a workman’s arm caused by a sliding sheet of glass. The workman was injured trying to protect a co-worker. The surgery to repair nerve, artery and tendon damage required the use of a new microscope recently purchased by the hospital. 11-20

Events of note …
The seventh anniversary of Max’s Mardi Gras parade was “bigger and better” than ever, organizers said. The annual parade celebrates the life of Max Monaghan, who has served as the parade marshall since 1999. 4-17

Clarkson hosts its first-ever rodeo and equestrian events. The three-day event featured Brahma bull riding, bareback bronc riding and steer wrestling. 6-12

The Spencerport Volunteer Fire Department’s annual parade and carnival is an event that dates back more than 60 years. While the vast majority of volunteers are part of the 109 firemen that make up the Spencerport Volunteer Fire Department, there are also several people who help simply because they want to give back to the community and the fire department. Dale Webster, lifelong Spencerport resident and employee of Bayford Construction in Spencerport, has been involved with the carnival for over 10 years. 6-12

Visitors came to the Harford Barn and Livery Stable in Bergen to celebrate Memorial Day. Veterans from Army, Navy, Air Force and the British Tutorial Army shared memories along with artifacts and memorabilia for this exhibit. 6-12

Brockport artist Helen Smagorinsky’s artwork appeared on the Main Street billboard that was dedicated June 21. The billboard was a joint project of the village and the Brockport Art & Aesthetics Committee which is part of the Walk! Bike! Brockport Action Group. 6-26

A Victorian Garden Party was hosted at the Morgan-Manning House, 151 Main Street in Brockport. It was a premier event sponsored by the Western Monroe Historical Society. With tents, tables and lanterns covering the mansion’s lawn, the event recreated the elegant social life of the Victorian era in America. Punch, hors d´oeuvres and desserts were prepared by the society’s volunteers from authentic Victorian era recipes. Wine tasting was arranged by two regional wineries. Singing and instrumental music was provided. Ladies were encouraged to wear their hats and elegant finery and gentlemen their Sunday best attire. 6-26

Can-imals on parade, the canned goods sculpture contest and kids party relocated to the Brockport Arts Festival. In its fourth year, the award-winning Can-imals on Parade invited teams to collect at least 1,000 cans or non-perishables that are needed by food shelves, show up on Main Street and using the cans, their imaginations and any other materials they want, build an animal-themed sculpture that could promote their agency/cause/idea in a 10' x 20' space. 6-26

More than 100 residents of Hickory Hollow, an age restricted community in Spencerport, gathered for a “Hoedown” and pig roast. Entertainment was provided by the Hickory Hollow Harmonizers, a group within the community which gets together and sings just for the love of music. 7-3

Police officers, firefighters and ambulance personnel came together and welcomed the community to an event that is celebrated across America - National Night Out. The one night event sends a powerful message about neighborhood unity, awareness, safety and police-community partnerships, according to law enforcement officials. Brockport Police Sergeant Mark Cuzzupoli has been the organizer for the event since it kicked off in the village. It has been going nationwide for about 20 years, he said. 7-24

Attendance at the Brockport Summer Art Festival is a “must do” on the calendars of many people as evidenced by the crowds that make their way to this Victorian canal village annually for the two day event. Brockport’s Rotary Club President Rob Blair was at the helm this year. 7-31

The Hamlin Carnival is the last firemen’s carnival of the year in this area and Fire Department President Mike Ross predicted the event was going to be the best and the biggest show in Hamlin. The Hamlin Carnival’s attendance has grown by 40 percent over the last two years. Ross said he is hoping that by shifting the days back, attendance will climb even further. In the past, Ross estimates the carnival has welcomed between 6,000 and 10,000 guests annually, according to department estimates. 8-7

Hilton parishioners welcome a new pastor, Reverend Joseph Catanise, to Saint Leo’s Roman Catholic Church. 8-21

Within weeks of hosting CAN-imals on Parade, a regional sculpting contest/food drive which raised more than 12,000 non-perishable items for local food shelves, the “cool community” of families, kids, agencies and family-focused events-goers in several counties are sending a “Wave of Love” to the Gulf Coast survivors in the form of two community garage sales. 9-18

More than 200 craft vendors displayed their handmade arts and crafts during the Hilton Apple Fest’s two day event. 2005 marked the event’s 25th anniversary. 9-25

Emergency services…
On Friday, February 25, the Hamlin Volunteer Fire Department rescued Harry Schouten, a 69-year-old ice fisherman who had fallen into Sandy Creek. Schouten, an experienced ice fisherman, was preparing for a morning of fishing on the creek near its junction with Lake Ontario when he fell through. 3-6

Lew Gracey is proud of his 38 years of service in the Chili Fire Department. His interest in fire equipment, however, was sparked long before he put on a uniform. His love of the department came together in the pages of a book he co-authored. “Antique Fire Apparatus of Western New York 1798-1978” is the culmination of a three-year road trip Gracey enjoyed with his wife, Jane. 3-6

The Spencerport Volunteer Fireman’s Association purchased and placed into service a new thermal imaging camera (TIC). The camera interprets temperature differences and provides a color image on a small screen and is useful when attempting to locate people trapped in housefires. 3-6

A state grant, a few private donations and a gift in honor of deceased Hamlin man, Jim Kase, have allowed the Walker Fire Department to purchase an off road rescue unit, an emergency vehicle that is unique to Monroe County. The rescue unit is a six wheel ATV equipped with a stokes basket (device used to carry people) and a fully enclosed trailer with a generator. The back two wheels of the vehicle were replaced by bulldozer tracks. 3-13

The Brockport Fire Department re-elected the chief officers of the department. Christian McCullough, Fire Chief, Laurence C. Vaughan, Deputy Chief and Timothy J. Rombaut, Assistant Chief, will serve a second year. 3-13

The Hamlin Fire House received a $1 million makeover to better prepare firefighters and to create a stronger sense of community among the volunteers. Bill Kirchgessner, fire commissioner and second vice president of the Monroe County Fire District Officers Association, helped oversee the renovation, which included the addition of a physical fitness center, more office space, a new lounge and cafeteria, a bunk room, new phone system, fire sprinklers throughout the building, and a significantly updated training room. 3-20

The Monroe County Fire Police Association Gordon Mosier Fire Police Officer of the Year Award for 2004 was presented to Brockport Fire Department Fire Police Officer Kenneth Keim at the association’s annual Installation Banquet. 4-17

Churchville Fire Department members were honored for rescue efforts performed on Sept. 11, 2004 when they rescued a mother and her two young sons from Black Creek when their canoe capsized. 7-31

Hamlin’s volunteer fire fighters received a financial boost in the way of a $10,000 grant for the purchase of equipment and training materials. 8-14

The Morton Fire Company has been awarded a $450 grant from the First Responders Institute. The company purchased 10 “bail-out bags.” The bail out bags are equipped with 25 feet of rope and are designed to aid firefighters escape from a structure when their primary escape route may have been cut off. The fire company also received a matching grant of $1,000 from the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation. That money was used to purchase a positive pressure ventilation fan with a misting ring for firefighter rehab as well as assorted brush/grass firefighting hand tools and equipment. 9-18

The Joint Fire Service Leadership of Monroe County honored five members of the Hamlin Fire Department. Firefighters Mark Jacob and Joe Burke were awarded the Distinguished Service Award for venturing out on the ice over Sandy Creek to rescue an ice fisherman who had fallen through. The Distinguished Service Award is given to firefighters who save the life of a fellow human being. Firefighters Mike Marchetti and Mike Stevenson and fire police officer Caroline Miller, along with firefighters Jacob and Burke, also received a Unit Commendation for this action. The Unit Commendation Award is given for actions performed in a manner substantially beyond normal expectations. 10-30

Government…
The issue of amending the Host Agreement for the Mill Seat Landfill, one that had split the Riga Town Board and the residents, was decided by a divided board. The contentious issue gives town officials a say in future expansion of the Mill Seat site. The Host Agreement could net the town $500,000 to $700,000 in additional revenue. The town’s financial benefit from the changes to the agreement could reach $1.8 million annually. 1-9

Robert Colby was sworn in as Monroe County Legislator for the 20th district. His wife, Sharon, held the Bible as the oath was administered by Monroe County Sheriff Patrick O’Flynn. Colby represents residents in the towns of Ogden, Riga and portions of Chili and Henrietta. 1-16

Tops received unanimous approval from the Hamlin Planning Board on February 7 to move forward with the construction of a gas station at its grocery store site on Lake Road. 2-27

Residents in the Town of Kendall are upset that a historic piece of town history was sold late in 2004. Town Supervisor John Becker said no one has been able to determine the origin of the Civil War era cannon but said it was situated in the town sometime back in the late 1800s or early 1900s. The cannon, valued at approximately $20,000, was sold to a private Civil War Artillery museum in Pennsylvania, Becker said. Many residents were unhappy when they heard the news. Eventually, the cannon was later returned to the town. 3-20

Assembly Republican Leader Charles H. Nesbitt (R-139th District), announced changes outlined in the new state budget for the Empire Zone program include revisions to the Genesee and Orleans County Zones that will double their size and create new incentives for manufacturing and agriculture. 4-10

The Albion Town Board approved rezoning a parcel of land from agricultural/residential to general business. About 130 acres of land in the Gaines Basin Road and Route 31 area is the site of a Wal-Mart supercenter. 4-17

Sweden Supervisor Nat O. Lester, III received a 2005 Public Service Award from the New York State Parks and Recreation Society. 5-1

The Sweden Farmers Museum committee sought donations of historical artifacts related to farming in the local community and any historical artifacts related to the Town of Sweden. The committee is also seeking the donation of wooden display cases to house artifacts. 6-19

As a money saving measure for taxpayers and as a way to set an example, board members in the Village of Brockport voted to rescind the salary increases that were built into the 2005-06 budget. The vote was taken at the July 18 meeting. 7-24

Close to 100 people filled the courtroom in the Town of Sweden but less than a dozen took to the podium during a public hearing to voice their opposition to the proposed rezoning on Redman Road. The potential rezone would include four parcels of land totaling about 130 acres on Redman Road. The project, while residential in nature, needs rezoning from R-1 residential to B-1 commercial. The developer is planning to build single family homes, town houses and patio homes in a variety of residential styles for seniors age 55 and older. Because Sweden’s residential zoning doesn’t allow for the mix of homes the developer is proposing, the rezoning is necessary. 8-7

Mayor Morton Wexler said at the August 15 Brockport Village Board meeting that village officials “made a mistake” when they approved the chief’s contract back in January 2002. They voted three to two to rescind the contract. 8-14

The Water Commission, as the Village of Brockport has known it since almost 1914, will be disbanded. It was voted upon at a meeting of the village board as a money saving measure. 8-14

The extension of Route 531 has been a project that has been years in the making and with recent funding coordinated by Congressman Tom Reynolds’ office, the proposed extension of Route 531 might be coming closer to being reality. “Monroe County received $5.92 million for the proposed project which has the potential to greatly improve Monroe County’s transportation infrastructure; and by better facilitating the transportation needs of employees, customers, and businesses, the project can stimulate economic growth as well,” he said. 9-11

Village of Hilton officials unveil a new municipal electric utility for residents. 11-20

Hamlin and Kendall officials began talks with the Monroe County Water Authority for the MCWA to take over the running of the water operations in both towns. It would mean the dissolution of the Hamlin/Kendall Water Authority. Public meetings were held for residents. 11-27

Spencerport residents were invited to discuss redevelopment concepts at a meeting. The compilation of the document would outline the future of the Village of Spencerport’s southside waterfront redevelopment. 11-27

People…
Terry Wright, long-time Hamlin postmaster, retired after 32 years in the United States Postal Service, 25 of those years in Hamlin. Wright retired in March. 1-9

Following more than two decades of service to Monroe County, Brockport resident Becky McCorry bid the area farewell when she accepted a position with the national American Red Cross Office in Washington, D.C. She became the Supervisor of Advanced Disaster Services. 1-30

Patty Uttaro was honored as the Spencerport Area Chamber of Commerce’s Citizen of the Year for 2004. Uttaro was recognized for her service to the community through her work at the Ogden Farmers’ Library where she has worked since 1996. 1-30

Brockport authors William G. Andrews and William Heyen released books celebrating the 175th anniversary of the Village of Brockport. Andrews’ book, Early Brockport, is a narrative history from the Senecas to 1865. Heyen’s book, Brockport Sunflowers, contains his selections of previously published poems and open letters about Brockport. 3-6

Hometown hero James Mullen and Saralynne Mullen found love after attending a Parents Without Partners meeting. After his wife passed away, James’ daughter urged him to try to meet someone. James is a hero in his local community, serving in the Hilton Fire Department for 42 years with many heroic moments including being one of the first men on the scene of the disastrous Hilton fire of 1965 and pulling a neighbor out of his burning house. James has served as fire chief and held several offices in the Hilton Fire Department Exempt Club. He also worked in the community as Fire Marshal and Code Enforcement Officer for both the Village of Hilton and Town of Parma. 3-27

Ryan Chalmers, of Churchville, has been setting his sights on participating in international competitions for many years. His dream came true when he competed in the 2005 Junior World Games for Athletes with Disabilities on April 8 to 14, in Sydney, Australia. 4-3

The Sweden/Clarkson Recreation Department announced that Monroe County Legislature President Wayne E. Zyra will be the recipient of the 2005 Person of the Year Award. Zyra will be recognized during their Annual Community Awards Banquet on Friday, June 3, in the New York Room at SUNY Brockport’s Cooper Hall. 4-10

Following more than 16 years of service in various capacities for the Village of Spencerport, Pam Gilbert left her position. Gilbert was the village’s clerk since June 2000. 7-3

Marisa Papagilas became the new Hilton Postmaster March 19. As of June 2005, Marisa marked 30 years as a postal employee, having spent the last 23 years as the Customer Service Supervisor in the Hilton Post Office. 5-1

The Gates-Chili Chamber of Commerce announced the recipients of its 2005 Community Awards. The winners were: Chili Paul Plaza, Kravetz Realty - Town of Chili Beautification Award; YMCA - Town of Gates Beautification Award; Gates Albert - Joseph Entress Memorial Award, Economic Development; John Barthelmes - Culture and Arts Award; Lieutenant James VanBrederode and members of the Gates Keystone Club Police Pipes and Drums Band - Recognition of Outstanding Citizens Award; Wegmans - a Special Recognition Award. 4-24

The Rochester Bowling Association recognized Chili resident and professional bowler Mark McClain for his career achievements at their Hall of Fame dinner. McClain, editor of the Greater Rochester Bowler and the Buffalo area bowling publication Spares & Strikes, both published by Westside News Inc., and Ange Cutaia were selected in the Outstanding Achievement Category. 5-1

Kayla Sucy, a Hilton High School junior and a lifelong resident of Hilton, was chosen by the Hilton Apple Fest Committee as the 2005 Hilton Apple Fest Queen. 7-3

Outgoing Brockport Rotary President Gary Zimmer presented Greg Lund with Brockport Rotary’s Community Citizen of the Year Award. The award is given to an individual whose community spirit makes Brockport a better place in which to live. 7-3

Spencerport Rotarian Kathy Magin received two honors at the club’s annual changeover dinner. She received the Paul Harris Fellow Award and the Rotarian of the Year Award for outstanding service to the club and community. 7-3

Cecelia M. Clark, a resident at Lakeside Beikirch Care Center in Brockport, celebrated her 100th birthday with family, friends, neighbors and employees and a family celebration July 3. 7-17

For the third year, Gwen Comstra and Susie Cotsworth rode their personal watercraft around a lake but this year it was for a specific cause. This year, the ride was also more personal for Comstra as she and Cotsworth will be riding to raise money for the Alzheimer’s Association in memory of Comstra’s father, Roy Comstra, who died in mid-July. 7-24

Dustin Klafehn, a carpentry/masonry specialist with the U.S. Army, came home and met, for the first time, Conrad Schott, the Spencerport postal worker who had been supplying his unit with care packages. 8-14

.United Way officials appointed Daniele Lyman as regional director for Genesee and Eastern Orleans United Ways. As regional director, Lyman will be responsible for coordinating fundraising efforts for the annual appeal, and working with volunteer leadership to enhance the delivery of regional health and human care service programs. 8-28

The motorcycle trip started from a desire to work on a float and a comment about driving a motorcyle cross country - some day. The day came on December 27 when Linda and Mike Schaffer of Brockport fulfilled two dreams in one trip. They’d always talked about taking a trip across the country on the bike and working on a float for the Rose Bowl parade. 9-18

David Lavery retired from a career in advertising sales which spanned decades. Committed to customer satisfaction, Lavery not only met the advertising needs of his clients but became friends with legions of business owners and employees as he visited them to prepare ads throughout the years for various publications including those of Westside News Inc. 10-2

Thanks to the help of friends, Ron Lemcke got to do something he had always wanted to do – ride in a fire truck. Village of Brockport Trustee Connie Castaneda, Fireman Tim Rombaut and the Brockport Fire Department helped him realize his lifelong dream. Since he was a child, he loved the fire department and what it stands for and always wanted to be a fireman, but because he is legally blind, it was not an option. Instead, he found consolation collecting more than 100 model fire trucks and photos. 10-23

Chili’s Carole Thoms has always been interested and dedicated to history and genealogy. She’s a member of the Chili Preservation Board and spends time restoring a circa 1825 family farm. So, when the opportunity arose through her employer, IBM, to participate in the National Geographic Society’s Geographic Project, she was quick to volunteer. The Geographic Project aims to plot the migratory journey of humans descended from a common African ancestor who lived 150,000 years ago. By tracking DNA, project scientists like geneticist Spencer Wells, hope to discover the origins of ethnic groups and understand how populations of people moved across the planet. 10-30

Law enforcement…
Deputy William E. (Bill) Larkin retired from the Orleans County Sheriff’s Office, ending a career of almost 29 years in law enforcement. 4-3

Orleans County Sheriff Scott Hess announced that Deputy Jim Halstead received an award from the National Boating Association and the United States Power Squadron. Halstead, supervisor of the Sheriff’s Marine Unit and boating safety certification class instructor, received the 2004 Best Teaching Aid Award for Boat Smart classes. 4-17

Sgt. Dale Barton and Officer Steven Brown retired in June, having given, combined, nearly 50 years of service to the community. Sgt. Barton has been with the Ogden Police Department for 26 years and Officer Brown has been with the department for 20 years. 6-19

AAA Western and Central New York recognized the Village of Brockport Police Department for their success in AAA’s Community Traffic Safety Program. A presentation was made to Chief Daniel Varrenti at AAA’s Annual Adult School Crossing Guard Recognition Breakfast. 7-10

Schools…
Local first place winners for the Lions International Peace Poster Contest were 6th grader Jessica Lovering and 7th grader MacKenzi Martin. The Churchville Lions Club sponsored separate contests at the Churchville-Chili Intermediate and Junior High Schools. 1-2

Holley sixth-grader Julie Brooks was named a winner in the George Eastman Sesquicentennial Celebration Essay Contest. The contest was part of George Eastman’s 150th birthday celebration and was open to fifth- and sixth-grade students in Monroe, Genesee, Ontario, Orleans and Wayne county schools. 1-2

Mark MacEwan, a BHS sophomore and a member of Boy Scout Troop 111 in Brockport, completed a renovation of the swimming record board at the Brockport High School swimming pool. MacEwan was working toward the rank of Eagle Scout and this project fulfills one of his requirements. 1-23

The students at Spencerport High School’s People in Government class raised $3,700 for the Red Cross tsunami relief effort. Students organized “Jug Wars” to raise the funds. 2-6

Kendall Elementary School has been named a “Northeast Affiliate Top 10” by the American Heart Association for raising $9,000 in its Hoops for Heart fundraiser last year. Kendall came in sixth place out of all participating schools in the northeast United States. 2-13

Spencerport approves full day kindergarten programming beginning in September. 2-2

They emptied piggy banks, did extra chores at home and sacrificed their spending money. And when the barrels of change and bills had been counted, the students at Spencerport’s Cosgrove Middle School had raised more than $4,300 to benefit the Red Cross’ tsunami disaster relief fund. 3-20

Aurora Coleman, a first-grade student in Donna Rose’s classroom at Fairbanks Road Elementary School, was presented with a Do the Right Thing Award from the Rochester Police Department. 4-3

Hilton School District’s new $4.5 million Aquatic Center opened in late March to rave reviews. Located at the Merton Williams Middle School, 200 School Lane, the glistening, new facility was to become the centerpiece of the new district project for the community. 4-10

The Hilton Board of Education selected Hilton High School Principal David Dimbleby as new superintendent of schools effective July 1. The announcement was made by Hilton Board President Daniel Wellington. 4-10

Hilton’s 2004-05 Teacher of the Year and Vocal Music Instructor at Merton Williams Middle School for 33 years, Marcia Sheremeta, was awarded a 2005 Rochester Philharmonic Orchestra Musicians’ Award for Outstanding Music Education as a Choral Director. 4-17

For the fifth consecutive year, Kendall Central School District has placed first in Orleans County and in the top third of all school districts in an eight-county region based on a ranking by Buffalo’s ‘Business First’ newspaper. 5-8

The Spencerport School District Board of Education selected Mary Anne Kermis, superintendent at Holley Central School, as the new district superintendent to start July 1. She succeeded Phillip W. Langton, who is retired June 30. 5-22

Barbara Tomasso, BOCES 2 supervisor of Instructional Support and Spencerport resident, was recognized for her leadership in helping districts respond to intensified state standards. 5-29

Five Kendall students were recognized at the 2005 Orleans County Youth Recognition Dinner for their excellent leadership skills and volunteer efforts both in school and the community. Out of the 4,500 students in Orleans County, 35 were nominated by a teacher, administrator or community member and 20 were selected to receive the award. The five students recognized were Nadine Beres (11th grade), Ashley Riviere (10th grade), Karl Driesel (12th grade), Amanda Klafehn (9th grade) and Aaron Wright (5th grade). 6-5

Holley fifth graders Brianna Goodwin and Zachary Vickerson were named the 2005 recipients of the Catherine B. Press Citizenship Award. The award is given annually to a fifth-grade girl and boy who display caring, responsibility and good citizenship and is named after Catherine B. Press, who was a secretary at Holley Elementary School and provided funding for the award. 6-26

The Holley Board of Education appointed Robert C. D’Angelo of North Tonawanda, NY, to the position of superintendent of schools at its August 1 meeting. 8-7

Byron-Bergen Central School District, in partnership with the Byron-Bergen Educational Foundation, recognized four graduates at the third annual Alumni Hall of Fame Recognition Induction Ceremony on Friday, September 9. Inductees recognized were Russell Gillett, Class of 1945; Richard Glazier, Class of 1954; Sharon Bidwell, Class of 1966; and Amy Mercovich, Class of 1989. 9-11

A Spencerport Central School District bus driver is being called a hero for his alertness and quick response to a situation on his bus. Don Tyson was taking students home from Bernabi Elementary School when passengers alerted him to the struggles of kindergarten student Alexander Cona, five, who was choking on a piece of candy given to him by another student. 9-25

Ed Donnelly, a fourth grade teacher in the Hilton School District since 1984, received Teacher of the Year recognition recently. 10-9

Carol Tomaschko was named Hilton Central School’s School-Related Professional of the Year. She works at Northwood Elementary School as a custodian. 10-9

Samantha Jones from Churchville-Chili Junior High School was selected as an M&T Bank RMSC Young Visionary. Students were selected based on leadership ability, outstanding effort and attendance in school, independent thinking and commitment to their families and communities. 10-30

Sports…
The Brockport Basketball Boosters Club dedicated a season’s competition to “Coach” Jack Hogan, a physical education teacher who retired in 2002. 1-30

Hilton High School Sports Hall of Fame inducted five new members on December 30 at Hilton High School. Inductees are: Stacey Amphlett, Class of 1993 Field Hockey, Basketball and Softball; Kristen Clark, Class of 1999 Field Hockey, Basketball and Softball; Steve Gilmore, Class of 1973 Basketball and Baseball; Deb Loughlin, Class of 1981 Volleyball, Soccer, Basketball and Softball; and Don Radtke, Class of 1952 Bowling, Soccer, Basketball and Baseball. 1-30

Dan Pincelli was named as Spencerport’s new varsity football coach. Pincelli takes over for Tony Lipani, who resigned after six years as the Rangers coach, with a record of 21-32. 2-13

Katie Sullivan of Churchville-Chili High and Gabrielle Boley of Brockport High were presented Player of the Year plaques from Birds Eye Foods of Rochester for their stellar play. They were selected by the coaches in the Monroe County I League. 4-3

The Rochester Disc Golf Club and the Town of Parma opened a new disc golf course in Parma’s Town Park. On Saturday, May 14, officials cut the red ribbon, officially opening the newest nine holes of disc golf in western New York. 5-15

John J. Grillo, Holley wrestling coach and athletic director, will be honored at the National High School Athletic Coaches Association (NHSACA) National Awards Banquet in Florida on June 30. He is one of eight finalists from around the country, one of whom will be selected as NHSACA Coach of the Year for wrestling. 6-26

Known as the “Golden Girls” of the Salmon Creek Country Club’s Women’s Tennis League, Gloria Miller of Greece and Millie Gianfagna of Brockport lost none of their luster as they won gold medals for the fourth straight year in tennis in the 75-80 doubles bracket at the 2005 Empire State Senior Games (ESG) held June 6 to 11 at SUNY Cortland in Cortland. 7-3

Former Kendall Eagle and 2004 All-Greater Rochester soccer team pick Laura Gaesser was named Player of the Week for the Mid-American Conference and became the first Central Michigan University player to be named to the Soccer Buzz Magazine “National Elite Team of the Week.” 10-16