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Le Roy loses in Attica in swim meet

By Howard B. Owens

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Le Roy's boys swim team met a tough opponent, Attica, on Friday, losing 105-53.

Brady Fix did win two races, the 50 free at 25.26 and the 100 butterfly at 1:04.21.

Photos and information submitted by Tim McArdle.

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American Legion in Alabama delivers boxes of Christmas goodness to local families

By Howard B. Owens

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Jessee Underwood, Wayne Whiteside, Fred Henry, and Myron Cramer are among the member of the American Legion Post #626 in Alabama that annually puts together holiday meal packages for economically struggling families in the western part of Genesee County.

The program has been going for nearly 20 years and this year Legion members prepared 39 boxes for families in the Pembroke School District and the Oakfield-Alabama School District and the Tonawanda Indian Reservation.

One box is going to a woman veteran in the Town of Shelby who works two jobs to try and make ends meet.

“She’s a vet and this a veterans' organization, we’re going to take care of her," Commander Fred Henry said.

The post holds hosts a meat raffle in the spring and a cash raffle in December to raise money for the program but many items in the care boxes are donated.

Piedmont Produce donates trimmings.

  • Kreher's Farm, eggs
  • Bonduelle, the turkeys
  • Star Growers, onions
  • Ronald Bruckner, stuffing
  • Roberts Farm Market, apples
  • Akron Family Dentistry, toothbrushes

Alabama Holly Farms also contributes.

We couldn't do this without the support of the community," Underwood said.

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Democrat drops out of race for NY-27 seat

By Howard B. Owens

Press release from Melodie Baker:

“I am beyond grateful for all of the support and encouragement I have received from residents throughout New York’s 27th Congressional District and beyond," Baker said. "It has been an honor and a privilege to have met so many wonderful people through the process of exploring a run for Congress and I’m excited for the friendships that have been formed with Democratic leaders, community activists, and members of the Labor movement.  

"For me, this year will not be the time for a campaign for Congress and while I appreciate the encouragement to run for Senate District 61, I am planning to support another Democrat for that office. 

"My motivation to serve and make change on issues like education, health care, and economic opportunity has not changed and I’ll continue my work to improve policies as an advocate through the nonprofit organizations I’ve worked with for the past 14 years. 

"Thank you to everyone who supported me, encouraged me, and listened to me. And thank you to all who step up to run for office and serve. Our part of New York needs more voices to bring change.”

Photo: BMS students give back to those who support the school

By Howard B. Owens

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More than two dozen Batavia Middle School students visited offices in and around Batavia today for the school's annual "Give Back Day," when students deliver class-made presents to the people and organizations that have supported the school during the school year.

Among the stops pictured above was the State Police Batavia Barracks on West Saile Drive.

Other locations the students visited today included the Sheriff's Office, Batavia PD, the Fire Department, WBTA, DSS, and Family Court. After Family Court, they went to City Court to see Durin Rogers sworn in as the new full-time City Court judge.

NextEra cuts big check to support Sheriff's K-9 program

By Howard B. Owens

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The Genesee County Sheriff's Office is $10,000 closer to its $50,000 fundraising goal for a second K-9 and handler to work alongside "Frankie" and Deputy Chris Erion after receiving a donation yesterday from NextEra Energy.

And the K-9 fund is getting pretty close to that $50,000 goal, said Sheriff William Sheron, thanks to generous community support.

NextEra is planning a 1,500- to 2,000-acre, 280-megawatt solar energy project in the Town of Byron.

Barbie Starowitz, Star Farms, one of the farms that will lease land to NextEra, helped arrange the donation.

Adding a new K-9 is expensive but the Sheriff's Office has long sought community donations to support the K-9 program rather than relying on taxpayer funds. Costs include purchasing the dog, training, and outfitting a car properly for a K-9 patrol.

“We strive to be a good community partner and are thrilled to have the opportunity to sponsor the county’s newest K-9,” said Keddy Chandran, project director for NextEra Energy Resources. “At NextEra Energy Resources, we believe in building strong partnerships and supporting the communities we serve with initiatives like this.

"We are honored to be part of the Genesee County community and look forward to continuing to work in partnership to develop the Excelsior Solar Energy Center which will bring significant economic benefits to the region, including good-paying jobs and increased revenue.”

Photo: Barbie Starowitz, Keddy Chandran, Deputy Chris Erion, "Frankie," Sheriff William Sheron, and Undersheriff Brad Mazur.

Photo: Deer out on a snowy night in the city

By Howard B. Owens

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Melzie Case submitted this photo from last night of deer strolling through the grounds of the Wilmott Cancer Center, located at 262 Bank St., Batavia.

Introducing the Drooly Kids podcast from Macy Paradise and Nici Johnson

By Howard B. Owens

Elba residents Macy Paradise and Nici Johnson have created a new story-time podcast for children called Drooly Kids.

From the show's description:

Drooly Kids Podcast is a parent's best friend, we will read your child a story from beginning to end... A tale written for kids completely from scratch so fun and exciting, no others will match... Made for your kids, yet staying mindful of YOU! These stories are silly and educational too... so take a breath, sit back, relax and push play, we will entertain your kiddo.

Here are the first two episodes, with second of special interest to Bill's fans looking forward to the coming game against New England.

To subscribe on your favorite podcast platform, click here.

Ortt calls on McMurray, Democrats to distance themselves from Working Families Party

By Howard B. Owens

Press release:

Today, New York State Senator Rob Ortt, Army combat veteran, and candidate for New York’s 27th Congressional District criticized the New York State Working Families Party for calling on candidates to “stop defending taxpayers.” Ortt called on Nate McMurray and all Democrats running for office to publicly declare that they will not seek the Working Families Party line in an election, and to publicly denounce this ridiculous statement.

“New York’s 27th Congressional District is home to hundreds of thousands of ‘taxpayers’ who work hard every day to support their families,” Ortt said. “In fact, these taxpayers pay the highest taxes in the country and are forced to fund the radical proposals from groups like the Working Families Party including free college tuition and driver’s licenses for illegal aliens.

"Any politician who can’t speak out in opposition to these absurd comments from the Working Families Party does not deserve to represent the hardworking taxpayers in any elected position.”

The Working Families Party, backed by progressive donors, often aligns itself with candidates running as Democrats. In the party’s 2020 questionnaire, they state: 

Messages that frame "taxpayers" as an aggrieved or marginalized group promotes an anti-tax, anti-government worldview that is often used to justify disinvestment and austerity policies. "Taxpayer" has also become a racially coded term designed to appeal to white individuals and reinforce the misconception that they are paying taxes to support the needs of people (often implied to be non-white) who don’t pay taxes. Will you avoid messaging that centers "taxpayers" or "tax burdens" and instead talk about "public funding" and the public as a whole?

The New York State Working Families Party has already endorsed several candidates for 2020, including for U.S. President (Elizabeth Warren), U.S. Congress (Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez), and Democratic candidates for the New York State Legislature. In 2018, Nate McMurray ran for Congress on the Working Families Party line. Ortt called on all candidates running for office to denounce the Working Families Party and refuse their support.

“This is an absolute insult to every overtaxed working family throughout New York,” Ortt said. “Anyone who seeks the Working Families Party support is clearly stating that they do not work for the men and women they are elected to represent, but rather a political party tasked with fulfilling the agenda of out-of-touch special interest groups and extreme regressive advocates.”

Law and Order: Washington Avenue women accused of violating an order of protection

By Billie Owens

Melody J. McMaster, 48, of Washington Avenue, Batavia, is charged with second-degree criminal contempt. McMaster was arrested on Dec. 9 on Chestnut Street in Batavia after allegedly violating an order of protection by being inside the protected party's residence at 11:17 a.m. that day. She was issued an appearance ticket for Dec. 24 in Batavia City Court. The case was handled by Batavia Police Officer Peter Flanagan, assisted by Officer Stephen Quider.

Jose Fuentes, 39, of Bank Street, Batavia, is charged with second-degree harassment. On Dec. 17, Batavia Police Officer Peter Post arrested Fuentes in connection with an incident that occurred at 9 p.m. Dec. 13 on Bank Street in Batavia. He was issued an appearance ticket for Dec. 24 in Batavia City Court.

Kyle Schroeder, 23, of Telephone Road, Le Roy, is charged with petit larceny. He was arrested at 9:09 a.m. on Dec. 8 on East Main Street in Batavia after he allegedly took an item out of the packaging while in a local business and then attempted to conceal the item. He is accused of placing the empty packaging on the shelf and continuing through the store. He was due in Batavia City Court on Dec. 17. The case was handled by Batavia Police Officer Stephen Quider, assisted by Officer Mitchell Cowen.

Parent meeting on Jan. 7 about full-day Pre-K option in Batavia City School District

By Billie Owens

Press release:

Many of the Batavia City School District’s current prekindergarten students will have the option to switch to a full-day program beginning this January. The tentative starting date for the full-day option is Jan. 28. Like the current half-day program, there is no cost to families. 

The Batavia school district, along with only 25 others in New York State, was awarded State funding to expand the prekindergarten program. Prior to applying to be considered for the funding, Molly Corey, Ed.D., the District’s executive director of curriculum and instruction, surveyed parents of the current 112 prekindergarten students and found that interest in a full-day option was very high, but not unanimous.

With that parental directive in mind, she applied for the grant and secured funding for 72 full-time slots, or four full-time classes, while still allowing for the half-day option for remaining students.

Three of the full-day classes will be housed at Jackson Primary School, and one will be provided by a community-based organization that is yet to be determined. If more than 72 of the current preschool students apply for full time, a lottery system will be used to place them. No new prekindergarten students will be registered at this time.

An important meeting for parents of current students will be held at Jackson Primary right after the schools’ winter break, on Tuesday, Jan. 7, to provide more details about the expanding program and the changes that it will entail. Two meeting times have been set in an effort to reach all parents: 12 p.m. or 5:30 p.m. If a parent cannot make either meeting, they are encouraged to call Corey’s office for an alternate meeting time (343-2480, ext. 1003).

The meeting will include more information about locations and teachers; information about the overall transition, as well as accommodating new aspects of the school day such as lunch time, rest time, and play time; a sample schedule for the school day; and time for responding to parents’ questions.

'Just Socks, Ma' -- GC Health Department launches new campaign to raise awareness of hepatitis C

By Billie Owens

Above, Tammi Bale, who operates the “Just Socks, Ma” Campaign.

Submitted photo and press release:

There is currently no vaccine available to prevent hepatitis C, but early diagnosis of hepatitis C is important as it can prevent serious liver problems. Approximately 3.2 million people in the United States. have chronic hepatitis C, but most do not know that they are infected. This is exactly why testing is so important!

Hepatitis C is primarily spread through contact with blood from an infected person, even in amounts too small to see. People with hepatitis C often have no symptoms. If symptoms do occur, they can be a sign of advanced liver disease (such as cirrhosis or scarring of the liver).

“Hepatitis C is a leading cause of liver cancer and the leading cause of liver transplants,” said Deputy Director Brenden Bedard of Genesee and Orleans County Health Departments. New treatments for hepatitis C are available and more are in development.

"Today, chronic hepatitis C virus (HCV) is usually curable with oral medications taken every day for two to six months. According to the Department of Health and Human Services, "The homeless population is disproportionately impacted by HCV infection, with an estimated prevalence of 22 to 53 percent (affected)."

Hepatitis C Testing is recommended if you:

  • Were born from 1945 through 1965;
  • Injected drugs
  • Received donated blood or organs before 1992
  • Have been exposed to blood on the job through a needle stick injury with a sharp object
  • Or have medical conditions, such as chronic liver disease or HIV/AIDS.

To increase awareness about Hepatitis C, the Genesee and Orleans County Health Departments are donating socks to Tammi Bale, who operates the “Just Socks, Ma” Campaign, collecting socks to donate to those in need in memory of her son Robert Bale who passed away of a drug overdose in 2016.

“These socks read #NYCuresHepC and is a reminder to get tested and that a cure is available to those who need it," Bedard said. "It’s a small way to give back to the community this holiday season and increase a valuable message."

Referring to deaths caused by overdoses and hepatitis C, Bale said, “Not one more is needed. This is my third year collecting socks and donating them to the homeless in memory of Robert. I wasn’t able to help him because I didn’t know anything was wrong (substance use disorder). He had a good job, was working 50 hours a week and had just gotten a raise.

"No one knew his secret, not even his roommate. It’s good to try to find out what is happening in your child’s life so this doesn’t happen. This campaign makes me happy and hopefully make Robert proud.”

Bale is also giving back by operating a Facebook group named “Angel Mothers Unite” providing uplifting messages to those who need it.

For information about Health Department services contact the Genesee County Health Department at 344-2580, ext. 5555, or visit their website.

Nine projects in Genesee County receive $1.4M in economic development grants

By Howard B. Owens

Today, the governor's office announced $761 million in economic development grants statewide, including $1.4 million for projects in Genesee County.

The local projects:

City of Batavia Advancing Batavia Opportunities The City of Batavia will advance the redevelopment of City Centre and Harvester Center BOA strategic sites within the Batavia Opportunity Area by undertaking pre-development activities including preliminary engineering and architectural studies, legal services, real estate services, zoning updates, and marketing. $193,500 City of Batavia Revitalize Downtown Batavia The City will assist in the renovation of mixed-use buildings in the City's Business Improvement District. $300,000 Genesee County Genesee County 2040 Strategy Genesee County will prepare an update to its outdated 1997 Comprehensive to provide a new direction for the future of Genesee County with a focus on economic development and community revitalization. The plan will be action-oriented and community-driven with an emphasis on priority county- wide revitalization projects complemented by an implementation strategy and performance measurements. $40,000 Genesee-Orleans Regional Arts Council Seymour Place The Genesee-Orleans Regional Arts Council will make needed renovations and upgrades to maintain the fundamental beauty of its historical building while bringing the functionality of the building into the 21st century. $72,500 Town of Byron Town of Byron Wastewater Treatment Plant Improvements Study The Town of Byron will complete an engineering report to evaluate disinfection alternatives at its wastewater treatment plant. $30,000 Town of Pavilion Town of Pavilion Wastewater Treatment Plant Disinfection Study The Town of Pavilion will complete an engineering report to evaluate disinfection alternatives at its wastewater treatment plant. $30,000 Village of Corfu Village of Corfu Wastewater Treatment Plant Disinfection The Village of Corfu will install effluent disinfection at the village's wastewater treatment plant. This project will improve water quality by reducing pathogens in the treatment plant's discharge. $620,000 Village of Elba Village of Elba Wastewater Treatment Facility and Collection System Study The Village of Elba will complete an engineering report to evaluate disinfection alternatives at its wastewater treatment facility. The report will also include recommended actions to reduce the inflow and infiltration in the sanitary sewer collection system. $30,000 Village of LeRoy Village of LeRoy Sewer Inflow and Infiltration Study The Village of LeRoy will complete an engineering report that provides a detailed sanitary sewer collection system capital improvement plan based on investigations of inflow and infiltration in the system. $30,000

Press release:

Governor Andrew M. Cuomo today announced that more than $761 million in economic and community development funding has been awarded through Round IX of the Regional Economic Development Council initiative. Since its inception in 2011, more than $6.9 billion has been awarded to more than 8,300 projects that are projected to create and retain more than 240,000 jobs statewide through the REDC process.

"Throughout the Regional Economic Development Council process over the past nine years, we have seen unprecedented regional investment focusing on a ground-up, strategic model that has spurred tremendous growth in every corner of this great state," Governor Cuomo said. "By bringing together local leaders and stakeholders who are invested in their communities we have replaced the 'one size fits all' approach to economic development with one that is unique to each community, creating opportunities for success all across the Empire State."

"By empowering local officials and stakeholders who know their communities best, we have transformed the state's economic development strategy into one that is not only successful, but is built to last," said Lieutenant Governor Kathy Hochul, chair of the Regional Economic Development Councils.

"Together, we are revitalizing downtowns, supporting and attracting businesses, and welcoming new residents and visitors. Through the REDCs, we are advancing the strategic economic development strategies of each region and supporting growth as part of the Downtown and Upstate Revitalization Initiatives. With a focus on workforce development and growth of high-tech industries, we are adding new job opportunities and strengthening the economy of New York State."

Today, more than $761 million in economic and community development funding was awarded through Round IX of the REDC initiative:

  • Western New York: Regional Council Awardee | $67.3 million supporting 109 projects
  • Finger Lakes: Regional Council Awardee | $64.4 million supporting 94 projects
  • Southern Tier: Top Performer | $88.9 million supporting 109 projects
  • Central New York: Top Performer | $86.2 million supporting 93 projects
  • Mohawk Valley: Top Performer | $82.7 million supporting 81 projects
  • North Country: Regional Council Awardee | $67.9 million supporting 83 projects
  • Capital Region: Top Performer | $84.1 million supporting 120 projects
  • Mid-Hudson: Regional Council Awardee | $65.8 million supporting 105 projects
  • New York City: Regional Council Awardee | $66.3 million supporting 109 projects
  • Long Island: Top Performer | $87.9 million supporting 94 projects

More information on the 2019 Regional Economic Development Council Awards, including a full list of awardees, is available here.

Empire State Development Acting Commissioner and President and CEO-designate Eric Gertler said, "For nearly 10 years, the REDC process has been the driving force behind New York State's economic development decisions, and the model is a proven success. As the process enters the next decade, we are seeing the legacy of past projects being completed and excited about the new economic development opportunities our REDCs continue to identify." 

The REDC process has transformed New York State government's approach to economic development, creating a statewide framework for bottom-up, regional economic growth and streamlining the state funding application process. Established in 2011 as a centerpiece of the governor's strategy to jumpstart the economy and create jobs, the Regional Councils replaced the state's old top-down approach with one that is community-based and performance-driven.

This spring, Governor Cuomo launched Round IX of the REDC initiative and the fourth round of the Downtown Revitalization Initiative. A full list of communities in which $10 million will be invested through the DRI, along with their applications, is available here.

In 2019, all 10 REDCs competed for up to $150 million in capital funds and $75 million in Excelsior Tax Credits for projects identified by the Regional Councils as priorities in their regions. All 10 regions competed for designation as a Top Performer with the five top performing regions being awarded a share of $100 million in ESD capital grants. The remaining five regions were awarded a share of $50 million in ESD capital grants. Each region was also awarded a share of $75 million in Excelsior Tax Credits to help attract and grow business in the region.

The Regional Council priorities this year included working with local businesses and communities to identify childcare needs and develop potential solutions; developing an economic and environmental justice strategy for the region; supporting community investment in place-making and downtown revitalization; and supporting the state's $175 million Workforce Development Initiative. Each council was asked to address these items in ways that complement each regional vision.

During Round IX, the Strategic Implementation Assessment Team (SIAT), comprised of state agency commissioners and members of the New York State Legislature, received presentations on this year's proposals from each of the 10 Regional Councils and assessed the implementation of the regions' strategic plans.

Ortt endorsed in NY-27 by builders association

By Howard B. Owens

Press release:

Today, New York State Senator Rob Ortt, Army combat veteran, and candidate for New York’s 27th Congressional District announced that he has received the endorsement of the Associated Builders and Contractors (ABC).

“I am honored to have the endorsement of the more than 20,000 hardworking men and women represented by the Associated Builders and Contractors,” Ortt said. “I am proud to have had the support of this organization in the past, and I have always believed that America is a nation of builders.

"During my time in the New York State Senate, I have worked diligently to support pro-business, worker-friendly policies that make construction projects safer and less costly, and I will continue to do so when serving the hardworking men and women of New York’s 27th Congressional District in Washington. The American economy is working when these men and women are working.” 

ABC represents more than 20,000 members of the national construction trade industry, helping individuals win work and deliver work safely, ethically, and profitably for the betterment of the communities in which they are located.

“The Empire Chapter supports fair and open competition, not politicians who favor rewarding campaign donors at the expense of every day New Yorkers,” said Brian Sampson, president of Associated Builders and Contractors, Empire State Chapter. “Rob Ortt not only understands the importance of free enterprise and job creation but is a leader on the issue.

"He has seen first-hand the negative impact of tax burdens and poor regulatory policy decisions. ABC is proud to stand with Rob and share his vision to bring jobs and opportunity to hardworking families throughout our great nation.”

Pembroke two-sport standout signs with NCCC Thunderwolves

By Howard B. Owens

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Photos and story by Faith DesRoches.

Mackenna Johnson, a senior at Pembroke Jr./Sr. High School, has committed to attend Niagara County Community College.

She plans to play girls basketball and girls softball and she will be coached by Nate Beutel.

The signing by NCCC is a result of Johnson's accomplishments at Pembroke in both basketball and softball.

Johnson has been a starter on her basketball team for the last four years and a team captain for three of those seasons.

During Johnson's career in basketball, she ranks sixth all-time in points (529), 11th in rebounds (338), second in assists (233), and third in steals (203).

She is the only second Lady Dragon to be ranked in the top five in all four categories. The first person to do it was her sister Breanna Johnson.

As a softball player, Johnson has also been a four-year starter and a captain for three seasons. Johnson has been a Genesee Region All-Star.

Johnson said she's eager to begin her basketball and softball career with the Thunderwolves.

Top photo: Pembroke basketball coach Ron Funke, Mackenna Johnson, and Nate Beutel, NCCC coach.

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The Johnson family: sisters Sydney Johnson and Aralyse Johnson, mother Shannon Johnson, father Jamie Johnson, McKenna, her sister Breanna Johnson, and grandparents Darlene and Dwayne Johnson.

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The varsity girls' basketball team: Nicole von Kramer, Dekari Moss, Emily Peters, Serene Calderone, Casey Wurtz, Allie Schwerthoffer,  Isabel Breeden, Megan Conibear, and Brianna Rindell.

GCC introduces two new administrators

By Billie Owens

Submitted photos and press release:

Officials at Genesee Community College are delighted to introduce two new administrators, both coming to GCC after dynamic terms of service at the State University of New York (SUNY) at Geneseo. Vice President of Development and External Affairs Justin Johnston and Director of Student Engagement and Inclusion, Miguel Baique began their appointments on Dec. 3 and Nov. 20, respectively. 

In his new role at GCC, Johnston (inset photo, left) oversees the efforts of multiple offices and personnel who work under the Office of External Affairs umbrella including Development, the GCC Foundation, Marketing Communications, Alumni Services and Grant Services.

Together, this encompasses approximately 12 College or Foundation employees with many different areas of expertise and responsibility, from philanthropy and fundraising to public relations, advertising, social media, and an array of vibrant grant opportunities. 

At SUNY Geneseo, Johnston served as the interim vice president for College Advancement and the executive director of the Geneseo Foundation Inc. His career has centered on philanthropy for nearly a decade involving fundraising campaigns, operations and analysis, and he is vice chair of the Community Services for Every1 foundation board of directors.

Throughout his tenure, Johnston focused on delivering the results to best serve the needs of constituents. He earned his Bachelor's degree in history and government from Daemen College, his Master's degree in College Student Personnel Administration from Canisius College, and he is currently working toward a doctorate in Higher Education Administration at the University of Buffalo. He lives in Williamsville with his wife, Danielle, and their two young daughters.

Baique (inset photo, right), from Queens, joined GCC in a newly created position, the director of Student Engagement and Inclusion, which oversees many different types of student activities that happen inside the Wolcott Jay Humphrey Student Union and across campus.

He will be working closely with various student-centered departments, advising GCC's Campus Activities Board, Student Government Association, and supporting more than 40 student clubs which provide a wealth of social and cultural programming events, activities and important extracurricular opportunities.

These include but are not limited to Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society to the Computer Repair Club, Creative Writing to CineMagic, Global Education to the New Age Circle, as well as numerous student clubs associated with specific academic interests and careers.

Baique came to GCC after serving as the assistant program director for the Ronald E. McNair Post-baccalaureate Achievement Program -- one of eight federal TRIO programs.

Prior to that position he was an area director for Residential Life at Nazareth College. Throughout his experience in higher education, his focus has always been developing programs that improve student retention and enhance diversity, equity and inclusion.

Baique earned his dual bachelor's degrees in Sociology and Communication (emphasis in critical and intercultural studies) from SUNY Geneseo, and a master's degree in Public Administration (emphasis in Health Care Management) from The SUNY College at Brockport. He is currently working toward a doctorate in Higher Education Administration at the University of Rochester.

"With strong teams in both of these important areas of Genesee Community College, I believe these two new leaders will be a huge asset and are in a great position to further support student success which is the core of our mission," James M. Sunser, Ed.D., GCC president said. "We are excited about the Spring 2020 semester with these new faces who bring great experience and enthusiasm."

Senators secure $2.5M for Firefighter Cancer Registry, $5M for FEMA grants, and $1.5M for cancer tracking

By Billie Owens

Press release:

U.S. Senate Minority Leader Charles E. Schumer and U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand today announced that they secured $2.5 million for the National Firefighter Cancer Registry as part of the bipartisan spending agreement, which is expected to pass Congress shortly.

In June 2018, Congress passed Schumer-backed legislation that established a specialized National Firefighter Cancer Registry, which is now managed by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

Schumer has long fought on behalf of this critical registry that aims to improve collection capabilities and activities related to the nationwide monitoring of cancer incidence among all firefighters, both career and volunteer.

Additionally, Schumer and Gillibrand fought to secure critical, $5 million increases for the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s (FEMA) Assistance to Firefighters Grant (AFG) program and Staffing for Adequate Fire and Emergency Response (SAFER) grant program. 

“Firefighters risk their lives every day, charging into extreme danger, and exposing themselves to harmful toxins and pollutants. We owe it to these courageous men and women to ensure that if they fall ill, they receive first-rate medical care and treatment,” Senator Schumer said.

“That’s why I was so proud to lead the effort in securing a boosted $2.5 million for the absolutely paramount national firefighter cancer registry, which not only helps researchers track the incidence of cancer among firefighters, but also informs efforts to treat and eventually prevent firefighters being stricken by cancer, and major increases in federal funding for two of the grant program our first responders depend on most: AFG and SAFER. I’ll always have the backs of our local heroes—our fighters—who throw themselves in front of harm’s way to protect their communities.” 

“Firefighters put their lives on the line to protect all of us and that risk extends far beyond their firefighting. It is imperative that we give these brave responders access to the medical care they need to combat cancer and other ailments brought on by their exposure to smoke and other harmful toxins,” Senator Gillibrand said.

“I am proud that Congress has dedicated funding for the National Firefighter Cancer Register to better understand the connection between firefighting and cancer and give our firefighters access to the resources they need, and that funding for two critical firefighting grant programs has increased. This is great news for our first responders, and I will continue to advocate for them in Congress.”

According to a five-year study conducted by the National Institute of Occupational Safety and Health, there are twice as many firefighters in the United States with malignant mesothelioma, a rare type of cancer caused by exposure to asbestos, when compared to the general population. The same study also found that firefighters have an increased risk of death from lung cancer and leukemia as compared to the general population.

The senators explained that firefighters are exposed to a range of harmful toxins when responding to emergency situations, often as a result of the noxious flame retardants and other chemicals that are used in everyday items, such as furniture, clothing, and children’s toys.

Experts and scientists have repeatedly sounded the alarm on the danger of these toxic chemicals because they have been found to cause developmental delays in children from long-term exposure in addition to rare cancers in firefighters when these products burn and the toxins become airborne.

Schumer and Gillibrand said research has indicated that there is a strong connection between firefighting and an increased risk for several major cancers, including testicular, stomach, multiple myeloma, and brain cancers.

Prior to 2018, there had never been a long-term registry established to track the potential connections between firefighting and incidences of cancer. Schumer and Gillibrand, therefore, said this national firefighter cancer registry is of the utmost importance, so experts and researchers can more effectively monitor nationwide trends and incidences of various cancers among firefighters – both career and volunteer.

The senators said this registry could also help medical professionals more effectively identify and treat cancer in firefighters over the long-term.

Specifically, this national firefighter cancer registry does the following:

  • Compiles epidemiological information submitted by healthcare professionals related to cancer incidence among firefighters in one comprehensive database;
  • Makes anonymous data available to public health researchers so that they have access to comprehensive datasets that will allow them to expand groundbreaking research related to firefighting and cancer;
  • Improves understanding of cancer incidence, which could potentially lead to the development of advanced safety protocols and safeguards for firefighters on the front lines each day;
  • Allows for increased collaboration between the CDC and epidemiologists, public health experts, clinicians, and firefighters through regular and consistent consultations to improve the effectiveness and accuracy of the registry. 

Schumer supported the creation of the national firefighter registry from its earliest stages, traveling from one corner of the state to the other to push the legislation that eventually established it as one of its original cosponsors.

The AFG Program is administered by the Department of Homeland Security’s Federal Emergency Management Agency in cooperation with the Department’s United States Fire Administration. The grants are awarded on a competitive basis to the applicants that most closely address the program’s priorities and demonstrate financial need.

The SAFER grant program was established by FEMA within the Department of Homeland Security to provide funding directly to fire departments and volunteer firefighter interest organizations to help them increase the number of trained, “front line” firefighters available in their communities.

The goal of SAFER is to enhance the local fire departments' abilities to comply with staffing, response, and operational standards established by the National Fire Protection Association and the Occupational Safety and Health Administration.

America's oldest lighted harness racing track had record-breaking season in 2019

By Billie Owens

By Tim Bojarski, for Batavia Downs

Although the final day of racing was canceled on Saturday (Dec. 14) due to bad weather conditions, the clubhouse that night was still sold out and the 400 or so patrons enjoyed Christmas music instead of race calls. But that was the norm at Batavia Downs in 2019; happy customers having fun at the races. 

Indicators for every aspect of the racing product pointed toward positive territory and in several areas showed record breaking performances. 

Betting-wise the on track handle was up 12.2 percent, driven by a 5-percent increase in attendance, the export signal was up 24 percent and Western Regional Off Track Betting (WROTB) revenue was up 5.3 percent. All tolled, wagering from all sources was up a combined 19.9 percent and provided the highest total handle at the track and the top three highest single night handles since WROTB reopened the Downs in 2002. 

The total handle was also $1.4 million higher than last year and all of this was accomplished with three fewer race days on the schedule. 

“Our customers came out in force, both live and at simulcast to support us all year and we couldn’t be more grateful to them,” said Todd Haight, director/general manager of Live Racing at Batavia Downs. “We gave them some of the best racing in the state this year and they validated it by betting us the whole season.”

There were several reasons for the increases and they were all primarily driven by the eight legs of the New York Sire Stakes (NYSS) culminating in the $1.8 million Night of Champions (NOC) finals in September. Along with the highest overnight purses ever offered at the track, Batavia Downs dolled out more than $8.1 million in total purses this year and that drew top horses and horsemen from across North America all year, providing great betting opportunities for the customers. 

The Downs also took full advantage of the Strategic Wagering Pool sponsored by the United States Trotting Association (USTA) and offered enhanced funds for exotic wagers that also provided free program pages for half the card on those nights. Aside from the NYSS NOC which was the highest handle in the tracks history under WROTB ownership, the track saw its highest total nightly handles on cards where the Strategic Wagering Pools were offered. 

“We had 14 Strategic Wagering opportunities during the course of the season and every one paid off," Haight said. "Many thanks to USTA Director Chris Schick and Social Media Director Michael Carter for their assistance with these wagers."

Two other factors for the increase include the simulcast department doing a great job marketing the live signal from Batavia and picking up many new customers this year which drove the export numbers and the track’s group sales department who brought in 31 percent more parties and events to the clubhouse than ever before and enhanced the live handle. 

“A lot of the people we see during live racing were introduced to the sport by attending our live concert series over the summer," Haight said. "They actually walk across the track and ask questions about horse racing and then come back when the meet starts to see it. It’s really been a good selling point for us and we’ve made many new customers as a result.”  

On the track, Billy Davis Jr. won his first driving title at Batavia Downs in 2019 by averaging two wins a night for the entire meet. His 131 wins, 102 seconds and 83 thirds out of 629 starts earned him a Universal Driver Rating (UDR) of .342 for the meet and $861,336 in purses.

Jim Morrill Jr. was second with 79 wins, 56 seconds and 37 thirds with $921,527 in earnings and Dave McNeight III was third with 78 wins, 61 seconds and 70 thirds with $543,064 in purses.

On the training side, Jim Clouser Jr. also won his first Batavia Downs training title after scoring 51 wins, 29 seconds and 39 thirds out of 219 starts for a UTR of .366 and $361,413 in earnings. His stable members finished in the money 54 percent of the time. 

Finishing second in the trainer race was Maria Rice who scored 43 wins, 31 seconds and 21 thirds out of 190 starts and earned $358,234 in purses with the legendary Gerry Sarama finishing third while making 246 starts with 32 wins, 40 seconds and 32 thirds with $256,619 in earnings. 

Live racing returns to the oldest lighted harness racing track in America on July 22, pending approval from the New York State Gaming Commission.

Le Roy Central School District wins GCC's 2019 Play to Get Fit Challenge

By Billie Owens

Submitted photos and press release:

 Le Roy Central School has won the 2019 Play to Get Fit Challenge hosted by the Health and Physical Education department at Genesee Community College!

The Get Fit Challenge effort began in 2011 to motivate third-, fourth- and fifth-graders in Genesee, Livingston, Orleans and Wyoming counties to get more active. The Challenge is designed to draw students' attention to just how many minutes they spend engaged in physical activity outside of school.

Throughout the five-week program, participating students record their active minutes -- time spent walking, biking, running, skating, swimming, playing a sport, playing tag, playing on a swing set and other active, creative games. (Video games designed for fitness utilizing Wii, Xbox Kinect or other similar gaming systems are not active minutes eligible.)

Recorded minutes are then totaled and an average active minute count is calculated based on the number of students enrolled in third, fourth and fifth grades in each school.

This year, Le Roy Central School generated an impressive 2,831 average active minutes -- beating even their winning count from 2018. The school was awarded the 2019 winning plaque and each student received a certificate recognizing their participation and effort.

In each participating school district the program also recognizes the three most active students:

  • Le Roy -- 1st Lyla Jones; 2nd Jacob Kochmanski; 3rd Abigail Valdes
  • Batavia -- 1st Ryan Bigsby, 2nd Jonah Arroyo; 3rd Dominic Darch
  • Warsaw -- 1st Delaney Baker; 2nd Kinsley Baker; 3rd Jaiden Fries
  • York -- 1st Briana Parsons; 2nd Brody Pangrazio; 3rd Charlie Cuozzo
  • Pavilion -- 1st Ella Brian; 2nd Peyton Gay and Colton Brian; 3rd Jessie Brian
  • Perry -- 1st Reagan Moroz; 2nd Aubrey McCowen; 3rd Tysen Deaton

The three most active participants (based on total minutes recorded) in the region this year were:

  • Ryan Bigsby, of Batavia, with 11,122 minutes
  • Reagan Moroz, of Perry, with 8,620 minutes
  • Aubrey McCowen, of Perry, with 5,540 minutes

"The Play to Get Fit Challenge encourages kids to lead an active lifestyle in a way they can see and understand," said Becky Dziekan, GCC's director of Health and Physical Education. "Each year, the participating school districts see proof that the program works! Congratulations to LeRoy and all of the students who worked hard to be active and enjoy the program."

The Health and Physical Education program at Genesee Community College offers several areas of study related to health, fitness and coaching. The Sports Management Studies transfer degree programs or Associate of Science (A.S.) includes foundations in sports facility management, accounting, marketing and more. The Fitness and Recreation Management Applied Associate of Science degree (A.A.S.) offers a Personal Trainer concentration and the opportunity to earn the National Commission for Certifying Agencies (NCCA) credential through the American Council on Exercise (ACE) as a certified personal trainer. In addition, GCC offers an A.A.S in Physical Education Studies in which students have the opportunity to earn a coaching certificate for NYS non-Certified Physical Education Teachers.

The spring semester starts Jan. 13, so there is still time to register! GCC has more than 80 introductory courses available, including Beginning Personal Fitness (PED259), which teaches basic fitness training and conditioning techniques to help anyone make active choices. The full spring semester course schedule is available here.

Top photo: Le Roy Central School Physical Education (PE) teacher Michelle Sherman; GCC Director of Health and PE Rebecca Dziekan; Le Roy Central School Physical Education (PE) teachers Brian Herdlein and Mike Humphrey; (in front) 1st Place -- Lyla Jones; 2nd Place Jacob Kochmanski (missing from the photo --  3rd Place -- Abigail Valdes).

From Batavia City School District, from left: Amanda Cook, 2nd Place -- Jonah Arroyo; 1st Place -- Ryan Bigsby*, 3rd Place -- Dominic Darch; (back row) PE teacher James Patric, GCC director of Health and PE Rebecca Dziekan.

*Ryan was the most active participant in the region this year with 11,122 active minutes.

Alzheimer's Association of WNY offers free education programs about dementia and caregiver support services

By Billie Owens

Press release:

The Alzheimer’s Association® Western New York Chapter offers a number of free education programs about dementia and support services for those living with dementia and caregivers all across the region and has a program scheduled in Genesee County in January.

Chapter experts will present "Know the 10 Warning Signs" in Batavia on Tuesday, Jan. 21, at 4:30 p.m. The free class, at The Manor House (427 E. Main St.), outlines common changes that may indicate some type of cognitive impairment and lead to early detection and diagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease or other dementia.

“This is a great tool for starting a conversation with your doctor about changes you notice,” says WNY Chapter Program Director Rachel Rotach. “We also have resources across Genesee County to help those living with the disease and their care partners to ensure they are living a full life while making plans for the future”.

Preregistration is strongly encouraged by calling the Chapter during traditional business hours at (716) 626-0600, ext. 313, or 24-hours a day, 7-days a week at 800-272-3900

Additionally, the Chapter oversees several monthly caregiver support group meetings across the county, which allow caregivers to connect with others facing similar challenges and hear advice for overcoming them:

  • 3rd Wednesday (Jan. 15) at 7 p.m. – Richmond Memorial Library, 19 Ross St. in Batavia
  • 3rd Thursday (Jan. 16) at 1 p.m. – Genesee County Office for the Aging, 12 Bank St. in Batavia
  • 2nd Monday (Jan. 13) at 2 p.m. – The Greens of Le Roy, 1 West Ave. in Le Roy

Community social programs, or respites, are also available every month in Batavia and Corfu. This program provides relief to those who care for individuals with Alzheimer’s disease or other dementia and offers them some time to refresh and recharge, while their loved one is engaged in social activities in a safe environment.

St. James Episcopal Church at 405 E. Main St. in Batavia offers a four-hour program, starting at 10:30 a.m. on the second Monday of every month (Jan. 13). Those interested in this respite should call Barbara King at (585) 343-6802.

First Presbyterian Church of Batavia also offers this free service on the fourth Monday (Jan. 27) from 10:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m. For additional information, please call Mickey Rodak at (585) 455-5940.

And Indian Falls United Methodist Church in Corfu at 7908 Alleghany Road offers a respite program on the third Wednesday (Jan. 15 ) from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. For more information, call Celinda McQuiston at (585) 762-9105.

To learn more about other Alzheimer’s Association programs and services, contact the WNY Chapter office at 800-272-3900. You can also access dementia care programs and resources by calling the Genesee County Office for the Aging at (585) 343-1611.

About the Alzheimer’s Association
The Alzheimer's Association is the leading voluntary health organization in Alzheimer's care, support and research. Our mission is to eliminate Alzheimer's disease through the advancement of research; to provide and enhance care and support for all affected; and to reduce the risk of dementia through the promotion of brain health.

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