Golfers, mark your calendars and grab your clubs! The inaugural HomeCare & Hospice Golf Classic tees off Tuesday, June 24, at the scenic and celebrated Terry Hills Golf Course in Batavia. HomeCare & Hospice has been servicing the Wyoming and Genesee Counties since 2000.
Recognized as Western New York’s #1 Public Golf Course and home of the famed Jim Kelly Celebrity Classic, Terry Hills offers 27 meticulously groomed holes and a reputation for providing an exceptional yet challenging experience for golfers of all skill levels.
Registration is $100 per golfer or $400 per foursome, which includes: Greens fees and cart, Lunch out on the course, Dinner at the evening awards ceremony, Swag bag of goodies, and Fun contests and on-course surprises.
More than just a day of golf, the event supports a deeper purpose. Proceeds benefit the HomeCare & Hospice Foundation, helping deliver compassionate care and vital services across Allegany, Cattaraugus, Wyoming, and Genesee Counties.
"It’s a chance to enjoy 18 holes on a top-tier course, spend time outdoors with your colleagues or friends, and know that your day on the green is directly supporting families in our communities," said Melissa Sullivan, CEO of HomeCare & Hospice. "It’s meaningful fun—with a mission behind every swing."
This year’s classic features favorite contests like mulligans, closest to the line, and longest drive, as well as two unique events:
Putting Contest – $5 for one ball or $10 for three. Sink a hole-in-one and you could win $500 cash, courtesy of Both, Branch & Hendrix of Olean. If multiple players make it in, we’ll draw from the names of those top putters to crown the winner.
Air Cannon Shot – Ever launched your golf ball from an air cannon? Now’s your chance—for just $10, take aim and fire!
While HomeCare & Hospice has hosted golf tournaments across its four-county service area in years past, this marks a new beginning. Following direction from the organization’s Board of Directors to alternate fundraising events between the northern and southern regions, Batavia was selected as the site of this year’s tournament to strengthen support in Genesee and Wyoming Counties—while welcoming teams traveling north from Allegany and Cattaraugus Counties.
"Hospice doesn’t have a location—it impacts families everywhere,” Sullivan added. “And we’re excited to see the southern counties show their support by hitting the road for a great day of golf in the north."
Sponsorship opportunities are still available, including hole sponsors, swag, lunch, cocktail hour, specialty tee signs, and golf hole discs. For more information, contact HomeCare & Hospice at 716-372-2106.
Twelve teams already committed include: Portville Central School, Databranch, Kinley Contractors, National Fuel, Paul Brown Chevrolet, Siemens, Tim Keller / Vision Financial Group, Wright Beverage, Lawley Insurance, HomeCare & Hospice, Bradford Publishing, and 7 Mountains Media.
The event committee is seeking to fill a field of 20 foursomes, and spots are filling fast. To register, call 716-372-2106 or visit homecare-hospice.org. Swing big. Give back. Make a difference.
The Building Champions Basketball Camp is set to return this summer, offering athletes in Grades 1 through 7 the opportunity to develop core basketball skills in a fun, structured environment. The camp will take place from July 7–10 at the newly designated location, Zambito Gymnasium at GCC, located at 1 College Road, Batavia.
Campers will receive training in fundamental basketball areas including dribbling and ball handling, shooting, passing and catching, defense, footwork, and movement. Each day, participants will have access to a hydration station and a healthy snack, with a pizza party planned as part of the experience. All athletes will receive a camp T-shirt and have the opportunity to be recognized as “Camper of the Day” or to win the “MVP of the Week” trophy.
Camp Schedule:
Grades 1 - 3: 2 - 4 p.m.
Grades 4 - 7: 5 - 7 p.m.
Registration Fee: $125
For more information, contact Camp Director Coach Zambito at 585-813-8592 or ciaci4zambito@gmail.com.
Eau Claire County Bridge in Wisconsin, the first InQuik bridge to go up in 2023. Photo from InQuik website.
Stepping briefly into her future role as Public Works commissioner, Laura Wadhams reviewed a laundry list of 18 items with Genesee County legislators in the absence of Tim Hens during Monday’s Public Service meeting.
Though it won’t be long before Hens hangs up his commissioner’s name tag for good, as he is set to retire May 30. Wadhams steamrolled through the list of county road, airport and bridge projects and related financial requests, including the way in which they’re approaching a replacement for Colby Road Bridge.
David Jeffery Pinkerton, 32, of Main Street, Le Roy, is charged with assault 2nd and criminal possession of a weapon with intent to use. Pinkerton is accused of fighting with two people at around 1:58 a.m. on May 18 in the parking lot of the 7-Eleven in Bergen. He allegedly caused physical injury to one person who was transported to UMMC with a deadly weapon or dangerous instrument. He was held pending arraignment.
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Elba and Lyndonville met for the second time in four days on Monday, with Lyndonville coming out on top 10-7 in a game that went to extra innings.
Elba took an early lead in the second inning, scoring twice on a walk and an error. Lyndonville rallied in the sixth, putting up five runs on four hits, including a two-run double by Braelynn Dillenbeck, to move ahead 6-2.
Elba answered in the bottom of the sixth, scoring five runs of their own to reclaim the lead, 7-6. Bri Totten delivered a two-run single after a long at-bat to cap the rally.
Lyndonville tied the game in the seventh, taking advantage of an Elba error. In the ninth, Isabela Groves doubled to drive in the go-ahead run, and another error allowed Lyndonville to extend the lead to 10-7.
Brea Smith pitched all nine innings for Elba, allowing 12 hits and 10 runs (five earned) while striking out six and walking three. Arnie Sturtevant went the distance for Lyndonville, giving up seven hits and seven runs (three earned) with 11 strikeouts and six walks.
Maddie Hall and Bri Totten led Elba with two hits each. Totten and Lauren Hawkins both drove in two runs. Elba drew six walks and turned a double play on defense.
Lyndonville finished with 12 hits. Addison Dillenbeck and Isabela Groves each had three hits and two RBI. Elena Barry added two hits, while Dillenbeck stole five bases as Lyndonville totaled seven steals in the game.
Evan Fitzpatrick struck out 14 and allowed just one hit over seven innings to lead Elba past Notre Dame, earning the win in a 2-1 decision Monday. Fitzpatrick finished with no walks and three hit batters.
Notre Dame’s Mason Vigiano took the loss, pitching four innings with seven strikeouts and two earned runs.
Nicholas Scott led Elba at the plate, going 1-for-3 with a double. Fitzpatrick added a 2-for-4 performance with three runs scored and a double.
For Notre Dame, Chase Antinore went 2-for-4 with a run.
Coach Andrew Boyce of Elba credited Notre Dame’s preparation.
“Hats off to Rick and his guys they always are ready to play when it comes to Elba ND games,” Boyce said.
Boyce noted his team’s slow start.
“I thought we came out of the gates a little flat today, and when you make a few mistakes against a team like that, they're gonna take advantage,” Boyce said.
Elba finishes the regular season on Tuesday before heading into sectionals.
“The last regular season game is tomorrow, and it’s already sectional time after that. We need to be playing our best baseball right now. It’s go time,” Boyce said.
Please be advised that our team will be performing necessary repairs to both the water and sewer lines on Dellinger Avenue beginning Tuesday, May 20th.
Work is scheduled to commence shortly after 7:00 AM and will continue throughout the day until the repairs are completed. During this time, there is a strong possibility that road access will be limited or, in some areas, completely closed to through traffic in order to ensure the safety of the crew and the public.
Additionally, please be aware that there may be temporary disruptions to water service for properties located within or adjacent to the work zone. We recommend preparing in advance for the possibility of reduced water availability during the day. As always, when the water is restored it may be discolored. Please refrain from doing any laundry until the water runs clear.
We appreciate your understanding and cooperation as we carry out this important infrastructure work. Estimated time of completion is undetermined. If you have any questions or concerns, please feel free to contact our office at 585-345-6329.
The jury in the upcoming murder trial will want to know why Michael Poole, an Olcott resident, was shot in the head and his body was abandoned in the trunk of a car and left in the town of Alabama, District Attorney Kevin Finnell told Judge Melissa Lightcap Cianfrini in Gensee County Court on Monday morning.
Casey F. Spencer, the defense attorney for Edward Dunn, the man accused of killing Poole, argued that many of the specific details Finnell wants to bring up at trial -- jury selection set to begin on June 6 -- are too prejudicial without much value to proving the guilt or innocence of her client.
Dunn, a former Lockport resident, is accused of killing Poole on March 17, 2024.
One of the prosecution witnesses is Kathryn Henry, Dunn's former girlfriend and a good friend of Poole. Finnell said he would need to explain to the jury why Henry did not immediately come forward and report the crime. Henry was initially charged with murder in the second degree in connection with Poole’s death.
However, on August 22, Henry entered guilty pleas to two lesser charges: hindering prosecution (a Class D felony) and concealment of a human corpse (a Class E felony). She is no longer facing a murder charge. Henry is scheduled for sentencing in County Court on August 18.
The case that Finnell would like to present to the jury would include information about Dunn's prior criminal record and Dunn's alleged burglaries and attempted burglaries, as well as information that indicates Dunn has violent tendencies and that Henry feared for her safety.
That fear, Finnell argued, is why Henry did not come forward immediately after the alleged crime.
On March 27, 2024, Dunn, Poole, and Henry allegedly drove Barker intending to commit a burglary at a laundromat, but the "conditions," Finnell said, were not conducive to a burglary. Finnell indicated that Henry would testify that Poole warned Dunn to be more careful because people were becoming suspicious that he was involved in a series of burglaries.
Finnell's theory of the case is that Dunn was motivated to allegedly kill Poole because he suspected Poole of telling people about the burglaries.
He said Henry would also testify that in the short time they were a couple, Dunn said he had committed other violent crimes outside of New York State and she knew that he was facing a felony assault charge in Niagara County from December 2021.
According to Finnell, Henry would say, if permitted by Cianfrini, that Dunn owned a rifle that he always carried with him, and that weapon was the same rifle used to kill Poole.
When Dunn was arrested by a parole officer, according to Finnell, he was found hiding in a crawl space of the residence he shared with another witness, Norman S. DuBois, and the rifle in question was also in that crawl space.
All of that is highly prejudicial, Spencer argued, to her client.
Criminal evidence rules generally prohibit the introduction of criminal records and uncharged crimes in trials because the information is likely irrelevant to the case before the jury and could paint the defendant in a negative light. The jury is supposed to consider only the evidence relevant to the case before them.
Monday's hearing was based on case law, which provides standards for a judge to consider regarding the admissibility of prior offenses.
Spencer argued that there are other potential motivations for the crime available in the investigative record and the details of the alleged prior crimes are not necessarily needed to say that Henry feared Dunn.
Finnell argued that without the evidence he wishes to present, the jury would be left with a "blackhole" for the jury to understand the true nature of Henry's fear, and since only Dunn and Henry were reportedly in the car when Poole was murdered, they jury could easily wonder why Henry wasn't the actual killer.
Spencer also argued against revealing that Dunn was on parole at the time of his arrest.
Finnell said all these pieces of potential evidence are "woven into the fabric" of the case and can't be separated. Henry's knowledge of the prior assault case goes to her state of mind when considering her options after the alleged murder, and the parole arrest and potential evidence uncovered in the search are critical to the case.
Cianfrini raised the issue with Spencer that the arrest parole officer would like to testify at trial, which would indicate that Dunn was on parole at the time of his arrest.
Spencer acknowledged that jurors could draw that conclusion based on the appearance of that specific witness, but it is unnecessary to tell jurors specifically that Dunn was on parole.
The 39-year-old Dunn is currently serving a 2 1/2 to 5-year prison sentence, assigned to Clinton Correctional Facility, for a prior and unrelated burglary in the third degree conviction in Orleans County.
Cianfrini will rule on today's motions prior to trial.
He is currently being held in Attica so that he is available to appear in Genesee County Court and to meet with his attorney as the case moves toward trial.
John Bolton celebrates his Lifetime Achievement award and Key to Le Roy on Sunday afternoon at Le Roy High School, while Evan Williams, background, joins the applause. Photo by Howard Owens.
John Bolton graced a Le Roy High School stage many times 45 years ago, but he may never have beamed more joyfully than he did Sunday afternoon after receiving a Lifetime Achievement Award from his alma mater.
Bolton has done more than achieve success on Broadway and on television. Throughout his career, the New York City resident has given back to the community that nurtured him and gave him room to grow as an artist.
Bolton is an acclaimed performer who never forgot his roots.
“I am so grateful to you all," said Bolton, a 1980 graduate, "and I may not have found the arts in Brighton, a much bigger school district, and I was able to find it here, and it is largely because of this lady right here, Beth Ann Lambian Hooker.”
There were a couple of hundred Le Royans in attendance, many of whom he's known throughout his life—teachers, mentors, friends, classmates, and the students he's helped guide through Le Roy's award-winning musical theater program.
During his acceptance speech, Bolton noted that he's often asked, "What's your favorite role?" He said he always answers, "The next one."
He was grateful, he said, to be honored at a time when he's still looking forward to his next role.
“I’m so glad you’re doing this now, and not, you know, after I’m gone,” he said, smiling.
BethAnn Hooker, Bolton’s former music teacher, expressed her gratitude for Bolton's consistent support of the students coming up through the program behind him.
“The COVID shutdown was so devastating, but you sparked inspiration in a moment when there was uncertainty," Hooker said. "Thank you for showing up to the production of Chicago. You're coming and speaking to the students, the inspiring words that you said -- your words matter, your time matters, and you know that, and you’re so humble in how you approach everything you do. We are so grateful. I am grateful for your commitment and for your inspiration.”
The event was lively from the start, punctuated by laughter, applause, and a palpable sense of community pride.
Master of Ceremonies Nathan Yauchzee and Evan Williams welcomed the crowd and set the tone for an afternoon focused on Bolton’s career and his ongoing connection to Le Roy.
The program featured a medley of Broadway numbers from Bolton’s repertoire, performed by alumni Jack Diskin, Haily Grasso, Suzanne Scott, Andrew Tomidy, Evan Williams, Nathan Yauchzee, and current senior Aubrey Puccio.
The musical tribute brought Broadway energy and polish to the Le Roy stage.
Speakers throughout the afternoon shared stories that highlighted Bolton’s generosity, humor, and commitment to giving back.
Millie Tomidy-Pepper, a classmate and close friend, recounted his early struggles and determination.
“John’s initial attempts to secure performing roles in seventh and eighth grade didn’t produce the results he had hoped for," Tomidy-Pepper recalled. "However, those disappointments pushed him to reach deeper and try, try again. By his senior year in 1980, he had earned the coveted role of the Scarecrow in the Le Roy High School musical, The Wiz. That experience confirmed his passion for the performing arts, and from then on, acting became his life’s passion, one stage and one role at a time.”
Tomidy-Pepper described Bolton’s generosity, recalling how he arranged for students in Le Roy’s Curtains production to receive personal phone calls from their Broadway counterparts.
“This is only one of the shining examples of John’s generosity and selflessness," she said. "John has consistently taken the time to share his time and talent, and has encouraged countless aspiring performing arts students to continue working towards their dreams.”
Hooker shared memories of his early performances and his willingness to help others.
She recalled Bolton’s memorable audition and performance as the Scarecrow in “The Wiz,” highlighting his dedication and comedic timing.
“Auditions happened, and it came down to about four young men who could all sing, dance and act the part beautifully of the Scarecrow. I had to find a way to break the tie, and the Scarecrow had to fall off a small stand about two feet high after being attached to a trellis. Each young man and when released by Dorothy, they were all to fall down, but they saved themselves as they fell, except for John, of course, one arm was released, then the other, and before his arm even got to his side, John fell to the floor as if there wasn’t a bone in his body, just the pile of straw is to say they got departed in the fall of 1980.”
Bolton had a lively sense of humor, Hooker said.
“In 1979, John played Junior Babcock in Mame," she said. "One of my favorite lines was when Mame (played by Suzanne Scott) called him that Son of a Baker Babcock. John decided to add what he thought a college boy would do in his scene with Mame’s nephew, Patrick Dennis. He pulled out a Playboy magazine and held it open to the centerfold. I rose from the pit and almost kicked him from the stage, not so much for the magazine itself, but the fact that Playboy wasn’t even published until 1953, and this was the 1930s. Sorry, I always tried to be time-period correct, if I could. I think John thought it would be a funny bit, until he saw my face in that reaction. I can laugh about him now, but then…”
Hooker described how Bolton returned to Le Roy after graduation to help with junior high productions, choreographing scenes and even writing original plays for the school.
"How very lucky am I? Of all the gin joints, excuse me, I mean, high schools, in all the world, LHS can claim that this talented, incredibly humble gentleman started here,” Hooker said.
Holly Valentine, director of education for the Rochester Broadway Theater League, reminded the attendees that Bolton's impact isn't just local. It's regional.
“He inspires everyone around him, particularly the next generation of performers," Valentine said. "I am here today, not only as his friend, but as a voice for Rochester Broadway Theater League, where for close to 10 years he has been a key member of our Stars in Tomorrow program where he is guiding, influencing and encouraging students from the Greater Rochester region and all over New York State. It’s incredible to watch his work as he mentors so many students with immense generosity, truth, kindness and love.”
Village of Le Roy trustees Bill Kettle and Jim Bonacquisti formalized the recognition by presenting Bolton with a proclamation and the village key.
The proclamation recognized Bolton’s accomplishments on and off Broadway, national tours, television work, and selfless contributions to generations of Le Roy theater students. The village board declared May 18, 2025, John Bolton Day in Le Roy.
Bolton’s remarks at the ceremony's end captured his gratitude and trademark humor.
“I grew up in Brighton the first 10 years of my life, and they said, ‘Hey, we’re moving to this town called Le Roy, but you’ll love it. It’s a beautiful town.’ I was really mad," he recalled. "I loved our schools in Brighton. I loved the diversity, I loved the arts, and I came here grudgingly. Well, after about two days here, I fell in love with it, and have remained in deep love with this beautiful town ever since, its scenic beauty, its rich history and its people.”
He credited the community for nurturing his talent and spirit.
“It truly takes a village. I have wonderful upperclassmen who are so cool and kind to me…so many neighbors," Bolton said. "There was a wonderful woman who worked with my dad at the bank, Mary Wright, who was extremely kind to me and supportive. I want to mention the support I received over the years in wonderful notes along the way and private, wonderful conversations from the great Nancy Baker, my late, dear, hilarious, genius friend, Jan Howard, Sherry Boylan, who remains one of my best friends to this day.”
Bolton’s gratitude extended to the teachers and mentors who shaped his journey.
“I may not have found the arts in Brighton, a much bigger school district, and I was able to find it here, and it is largely because of this lady right here, Beth Ann Lambian Hooker.”
Bolton teased his former classmates, Bonacquisti and Tomidy-Pepper, quoting from freshman-year annuals. The notes his classmates provided new punchlines for Bolton's remarks.
Quoting Bonacquisti’s playful message: “John, you’re such a slob, but you’re a great guy. Don’t ever change.”
He then turned to Pepper Tomidy’s advice, reading her words: “John, it’s been fun having you in class. Watch out for the girls next year -- they’ll be after you!”
He noted, too, the sign-off she wrote in the yearbook, "'I know someday I'm going to see you' -- and this was underlined -- 'on Broadway.'"
Bolton's acceptance speech included many memories of Le Roy. Clearly, his love for Le Roy, especially the Le Roy of his youth, never waned.
He recalled, "making the bank my playground on weekends for $1 an hour to empty waste baskets and shred the neverending stack of print out statements in the basement; working at Super Duper, where I hated being a stock boy and begged them to let me be the first male check out boy -- and they let me! Working as a bank teller with great people at that little branch inside the Ben Franklin and watching the wonderful Canali family buzzing around, running a wonderful business. Roller skating parties at Holy Family. Bike riding the back roads. Kick the can with East Main kids; skateboarding on our perfectly sloped driveway; sledding the big hills of the Le Roy Country Club; tennis with friends at Stafford; the enormous shrimp at George Peck’s Meat Market, 'Where friends meet for meat;' Ice cream at Genesee Farms, the meatball sub at Pizzaland, the sauce at the Casino. Wonderful memories, but it’s all really about the families who welcomed me with open arms. They set extra places at dinner for me, arranged sleepovers, and chauffeured me all around.”
Bolton ended with heartfelt gratitude to his friends and the community that once again showed up to see him grace a Le Roy stage.
"Thank you all for the home you were during those wonderful years way back then," Bolton said. "For the home you found (for) me in performing arts, and for the home you will always have in my heart. Thank you for the love you've shown me then and now, and thank you all for being my family. I love you all. I'm very grateful."
John Bolton and Jim Bonacquisti during the key presentation. Photo by Howard Owens.
John Bolton Photo by Howard Owens.
MIllie Tomidy-Pepper Photo by Howard Owens.
Following the ceremony, Bolton was swamped by well-wishers. Photo by Howard Owens.
Jack Diskin, Andrew Tomidy, Evan WIlliams, and Nathan Yauchzee. Photo by Howard Owens.
Hailey Grasso, Aubrey Puccio, and Suzanne Scott. Photo by Howard Owens.
Nathan Yauchzee Photo by Howard Owens.
Taste of Le Roy following the ceremony. Participating restaurants were Capish!, Henry’s Deli, Kade's Scratch Kitchen, Le Roy Country Club, Mama Chavez, McPherson's Tree-To-Tin Bakery, The Red Osier Landmark Restaurant, Settlers Select, and The Smokin’ Eagle BBQ & Grill. Photo by Howard Owens.
Kate Welshofer, former TV anchor and Communications Strategist for National Comedy Center. Photo courtesy of GCC
With a bio that shares how she uses humor at the heart of her storytelling to encourage, inspire and heal, commencement speaker Kate Welshofer had a lot on her plate Saturday during Genesee Community College’s 57th annual graduation ceremony.
It’s fair to say the Western New York native — a former television news anchor, reporter and producer who made an abrupt shift after 27 years to pursue a more creative path with the National Comedy Center — did not disappoint.
At the crux of her message was for graduates to locate their innermost free spirits and act accordingly.
“In the grand scheme of things, it's pretty easy to create an existence that looks good on paper, good grades, great internships, decent jobs, respectable salaries, prestigious awards and on and on and on. But how does it all feel in here? Where is your heart in all of it? When it comes to answering that question, I highly recommend consulting your inner weirdo. That little voice inside that makes you sometimes, maybe a lot of times, makes you feel like you have no idea what you're doing,” she said at the Richard C. Call Arena. “I will tell you I tried to mute mine for a long time, but she is incredibly persistent. The little weirdo in all of us can be a great guide. It is filled with very unique magic that is all yours.
"It is the best of you, trust it. It will carry you. And I know, because mine has carried and continues to carry and sometimes pushes me," she said. "Whether you realize it or not, your inner weirdo got you here. It has already helped you carve your unique place in this world, and it will continue to help you build what will be your life and eventually your legacy.”
She also cautioned them against rushing these fleeting moments, which are already fleeting enough. Along the lines of stopping to smell the roses, she suggested that they “celebrate, exhale, relax, and enjoy.”
Society seems to have a way of wanting to know “what’s next” after one reaches a milestone such as graduation, in a dash to find out what plans are in store for the next chapter. Welshofer encouraged these students, whom she addressed as scholars, as did her professor father, to take a pause for this special time before pressing onward with life’s demands.
“Often there’s pressure to do more and do better,” she said, sharing her father’s philosophy. “He saw education not as a means to an end, but as an opportunity. His approach to life was with a sense of whimsy and wonder. He was always asking questions, always.”
He taught her lessons outside of the classroom, including that life didn’t have to be taken so seriously; a little levity can go a long way to connect people, she said.
That’s advice she has apparently incorporated on her way to becoming an award-winning writer, speaker, content creator, owner of Welshofer Creative LLC, columnist, and more recently author of her book “You Monster! (That’s a Compliment),” released in December 2024, with a second one in the works.
Her father perhaps best demonstrated his devilish humor by listing a three-letter alleged degree on his bio in the GCC catalog. Tickled with himself, he flipped open the newly printed publication and showed her the page. After she gave up on what the letters S.F.B. stood for, he told her: Short, Fat, Bald. They each got a laugh out of that, though mom didn’t seem as pleased, Welshofer said.
“The things that make us us, those are the things that matter,” she said, asking that everyone lightly wrap their arms around themselves in a hug and close their eyes. “If no one has ever told you this before, you are the most wonderful miracle to anyone who has or will have the great pleasure of knowing you. Cherish this moment and all it took to get you here, knowing that you are and always have been, in good hands, yours.
"Give a little squeeze. Trust yourselves, trust your instincts. Trust that your joy, if you let it, will pull you in the direction of your very greatest potential," she said. "Whatever you do, don't let the what-if steal the infinite joy to be found in what already is.”
Being president of the Academic Senate and history professor at GCC has earned Charles Scruggs a continuing place at the podium, and this year he talked about learning the difference between gorillas and guerrillas. That early lesson led him down a path of seeking answers and unlocking one of the best gifts life has to offer: tuning into news and songs that aired on his blue portable Panasonic radio given to him by his parents in the early 1970s, he said.
The radio was a reward gift for his persistent spirit of finding out all he could about the five “gorillas” he had first heard about on the car radio with his folks and sister. They had taken over an airplane, and he couldn’t believe that the hairy animals would do that and was perplexed as to why. His dad, a teacher, used it for learning moments to define the difference between those creatures and the people who had hijacked a plane.
Scruggs had just turned 5, and his fascination with all that emitted from the radio grew after receiving his own device, he said.
“I held the magic of Marconi in the palm of my hand, and thanks to the miracle of my opposable thumbs, I could now dial in with an endless array of pop songs, live sporting events and business reports and pump up the volume or turn it down, as my heart desired. Even with my limited life experience, a lot of what I heard coming through that speaker spoke loud and clear and made a good deal of intuitive sense,” he said. “You don't tug on Superman’s cape, you don't spit into the wind, you don't pull the mask off the Lone Ranger, and you don't mess around with Jim. I've come to think of these as the four noble truths of the late great Jim Croce.”
He waxed nostalgic as he took students on a trip to his childhood and back again, sharing bits and pieces of what he learned on the “racetrack of life” and how not to let it become an inevitable hamster wheel.
A few tips to keep in mind:
One, tap into the power of stories to instruct and inspire, using material that you know best, such as family.
Two, thank the people who are there to support you and cheer you on as you navigate the racetrack of life.
And three, run the race that allows your unique gifts to breathe. In other words, love what you’re doing rather than merely pursuing the big paycheck and material wealth.
As for his love of that little blue radio, it helped him to literally — and figuratively — discern the right direction for his own path while not losing a beat.
“It trained me to find the signal amidst the noise,” he said. “So, graduates, please follow my lead. Be sure to thank mom and dad and as you sturdy your ships and prepare to set sail from what is now the safe harbor of your alma mater, it is our hope at GCC that you make your own kind of music and sing your own special song. You can count on us to listen.”
GCC Foundation President Scott Gardner presented a posthumous Alpha Medal of Service award to Gillian Romano, wife of the late Russ Romano, who died in July 2024.
“This prestigious award is the highest honor bestowed by the Genesee Community College Foundation,” Gardner said. “It recognizes individuals who have demonstrated extraordinary volunteer service and generous philanthropic support.”
Russ Romano served on the Foundation’s board of directors for 20 years, including two years as president, and also held leadership roles on the housing board of directors, stewardship committee and development committee.
"Through this work, Russ has guided others in strengthening the college's programs, mobilizing community support for capital initiatives, and making high-quality facilities available to students. Russ led by example and had engaged generously and selflessly with his financial resources in support of Foundation projects and created and funded the Russell and Gillian Romano scholarship to assist deserving students in their educational pursuits at GCC,” Gardner said. “Russ was deeply committed to the preservation and growth of our local communities.”
Romano was a founder of Genesee Cancer Assistance and an enthusiastic supporter of the community, and exemplified the “highest standards of volunteer service and inspired all those around him with his loyalty, commitment and honesty,” he said.
Photos courtesy Genesee Community College.
Professor Laura Taylor takes selfie with one of her students.
Mrs. Gillian Romano accepting the Alpha Medal of Service Award from Scott Gardner, president of the GCC Foundation on behalf of her late husband, Russ Romano.
Oakfield-Alabama Central School District has a 2025-26 budget of $25,555,345 -- a 2.13% increase from the current academic spending plan -- for voters on Tuesday.
If approved, it will introduce significant changes to the OACS District, including the purchase of three new diesel-powered buses, enhanced funding for contractual and equipment expenditures, and increased investment in instructional facilities and services.
Notable areas of expanded support include special education, substitute teaching, textbook procurement, athletics instruction, career and technical education, and mental health counseling.
Additionally, $5.33 million is proposed to fund expenses necessary for the completion of the 2025 Capital Project, which aims to refurbish the OACS track, football field, and its associated parking lot. To offset these financial allocations, reductions will be made to line items such as instructional salaries, media and library funds, co-curricular activities, BOCES services, and the summer school program, which saw ‘insufficient turnout’, according to Principal Matthew Peterson.
Taxpayers can expect a 2.5% tax levy increase, if passed, from last year.
Since the tax levy increase exceeds the tax cap limit, the district is required by law to obtain a 60% or higher approval rate from voters in order to pass the proposed budget.
The district office has stated that its primary point of focus with this year’s budget is maintaining the ability to provide quality instruction to students and revitalizing on-campus facilities.
If the budget is denied, the Board of Education may choose to present the proposed budget to voters a second time in June or instead adopt a contingent budget plan.
The terms of Justin Staebell and Matt Lamb are up in June for the Board of Education, and two candidates filed nominating petitions for the two available seats: Kevin Beuler and incumbent Justin Staebell. The available seats are for three-year terms, beginning July 1, 2025.
Polls will be from 11:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. in the Middle-High School Library.
Le Roy walked off with a 3-2 extra-innings win over Dansville on Sunday, capping a tense pitchers’ duel with a single from Jagger Smith in the bottom of the ninth.
Alex Spezzano went the distance for Le Roy, allowing no walks and striking out six while scattering eight hits. Dansville’s Nolan DeZorn pitched eight strong innings, striking out 14 and giving up seven hits.
Le Roy struck early. Spezzano led off the game with a single, advanced to second on a sacrifice bunt by Brady McClurg, and scored when Adam Woodworth and Jake Higgins hit back-to-back doubles for a 2-0 lead.
Dansville responded in the third. Jake Kreiley was hit by a pitch, and the Mustangs followed with four consecutive hits. Carson Mays drove in a run with an RBI single, and the tying run scored on an error. Le Roy left fielder Jude Sherman ended the threat with a diving catch, leaving the bases loaded.
In the ninth, Austin Cordaro singled with one out, moved to second on a passed ball, and advanced to third on a sacrifice bunt by Jude Christ. Smith then delivered the game-winning RBI single on the first pitch he saw.
Le Roy improved to 14-3 and will finish the regular season Monday night at Livonia.
Andre' Miller, owner of Zoom n' Groom, along with assistants, was parked outside the Genesee County Animal Shelter on Sunday afternoon, trimming the nails of dogs as a fundraiser for the Volunteers for Animals.
From oncology floors to community centers, tech startups to charcuterie spreads—Western New York is filled with people quietly (and boldly) making a difference. Now, their stories are taking center stage in a brand-new series from the global podcast Powered by Authenticity.
The Powered by Authenticity WNY Changemakers series, hosted by Batavia native and PBA Consulting CEO Emily Carlson, officially launched today and will feature weekly episodes over the next six weeks.
Each episode dives into the real, raw journeys of local leaders who are challenging the norm, giving back in big ways, and redefining what it means to lead with purpose.
“This series is truly a love letter to Western New York,” said Carlson. “These are the folks who roll up their sleeves, build something meaningful, and lead from the heart—whether they’re running a business, treating patients, or lifting up entire communities.”
The guests aren’t household names—yet. But they’re the kind of people who make WNY proud: a nurse practitioner pushing cancer research forward, a nonprofit leader transforming how support reaches families, a tech advocate lighting the way for digital inclusion, and an executive who traded spreadsheets for charcuterie boards (yes, really).
Listeners can expect unfiltered conversations, unexpected inspiration, and a reminder that leadership doesn’t always come with a title—it often starts with a question: How can I make things better?
Now streaming on all major platforms, Powered by Authenticity’s WNY Changemakers series is for anyone who believes in the power of local stories to spark global change.
First episode will be available on May 16. New episodes drop every week for the next six weeks.
Listen in, get inspired, and meet the people who are putting Western New York on the map—one bold move at a time.
Listen to Emily's new podcast series here on Spotify.
The U.S. Department of Transportation’s National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) is urging drivers to buckle up ahead of a national Click It or Ticket seat belt safety campaign. The national high-visibility seat belt enforcement effort, which coincides with the Memorial Day holiday, runs from May 19 to June 1.
“Seat belt use should be an automatic habit for drivers and passengers alike,” said Assistant Police Chief Chris Camp. “It’s not just a safe thing to do — it’s the law. During the Click It or Ticket campaign, we’ll be working with our fellow law enforcement officers across local and state lines to ensure the message gets out to drivers and passengers. Buckling up is the simplest thing a driver can do to limit injury or save a life during a crash. We see the results of not wearing a seat belt all the time. So often, it could have been prevented.”
The national seat belt daytime use rate in 2023 was 91.9%, which is good — but it can be better. The other 8.1% still need to be reminded that seat belts save lives. Participating law enforcement agencies will be taking a no-excuses approach to seat belt law enforcement, writing citations day and night.
One of the focuses of the Click It or Ticket seat belt high-visibility campaign is nighttime enforcement. NHTSA data shows a higher number of unrestrained passenger vehicle occupant fatalities happen at night. Also, seat belt use differs among females and males. Of the males killed in crashes in 2023, more than half (53%) were unrestrained. For females killed in crashes, 41% were not buckled up.
“If the enforcement effort alerts people to the dangers of unrestrained driving, we’ll consider our mission to be a success,” said Assistant Police Chief Chris Camp. “We are asking friends and family to remind each other to buckle up when they drive, and to consider changing their habits if they don’t. Help us spread this lifesaving message before one more friend or family member is killed as a result of this senseless inaction. Seat belts save lives, and everyone — front seat and back, child and adult — needs to remember to buckle up.”
For more information on the Click It or Ticket seat belt high-visibility enforcement campaign, please visit NHTSA.gov/ClickIt.
The Batavia City School District (BCSD) is proud to announce it has once again been honored with the 2025 NAMM Foundation’s Best Communities for Music Education designation, recognizing its continued excellence and longstanding commitment to comprehensive music education.
The designation honors districts that demonstrate exceptional achievement in ensuring access to high-quality music education for all students. This marks the second consecutive year BCSD has earned this national honor, further solidifying its reputation as a leader in music education.
Superintendent Jason Smith said of the honor, “We are incredibly proud to once again be recognized as one of the Best Communities for Music Education. Receiving this distinction two years in a row is a true reflection of our district’s commitment to fostering a well-rounded education where the arts—and especially music—play a central role. From our elementary school instrumental and vocal programs to high school ensembles, marching band, and theater productions, Batavia students have access to meaningful, enriching music experiences at every stage of their education. As someone who personally benefited from our music program, I’m thrilled to see our students and staff receive this well-deserved national recognition.”
“Being honored with this award for the second consecutive year speaks volumes about the strength and depth of our music program here at BCSD. Our students engage in everything from voice and instrument lessons to performing in chorus, orchestra, rock band, pep band, and musical productions. This achievement belongs to our students, our passionate music educators, and the families and community members who continue to support the arts. We are building something truly special in Batavia, and I’m excited to see where we go from here,” said Melzie Case, BCSD Music Department Chair.
To qualify for the Best Communities designation, BCSD answered detailed questions about funding, graduation requirements, music class participation, instruction time, facilities, support for the music program, and community music-making programs. Responses were verified by school officials and reviewed by the leading arts educational research firm, WolfBrown.
Two awards are given each year: Best Communities for Music Education (BCME) for school districts and the SupportMusic Merit Award (SMMA) for individual school sites. Both reach K-12 schools and districts throughout the U.S. and offer opportunities to increase awareness and support for music programs. Over 1,000 districts and individual school sites (public, private, charter, parochial) were recognized for having the highest commitment to producing exceptional music programs.
Emmanuel Baptist Church’s Community Garden is looking for green thumbs to come and grow! We have 20 raised 3X4 garden plots, water, tools, seeds, and fertilizer. We need gardeners! Do you want to provide fresh from the garden veggies or flowers for your family? Come grow with us!
The Sun is shining and the plots have been re-done with new soil but not enough people signed up for plots! We still have several in need of gardeners. Plots are free till gone! Call 585-343-4905 or email ebcbatavia@gmail.com to sign up!
Mikayla Yohon (middle) with her parents. Back: (l-r) Sara Stockwell, Ethan Heim. Photo by Gretchen Spittler.
Press Release:
On May 15, 2025, Byron-Bergen senior Mikayla Yohon committed to continuing her formal education after graduation at Genesee Community College (GCC) where she will compete as a member of the swim team. The official signing was witnessed by Byron-Bergen Le Roy Varsity Swim Team Coach Sara Stockwell, GCC Head Swim Coach Ethan Heim, and Yohon’s parents.
“I’ve coached Mikayla for 5 years,” said Stockwell. “She joined in the 8th grade. She is extremely talented, especially at the butterfly. It’s been a pleasure watching her swim and I’m going to miss her personality and the times when she really was a leader on the team.”
While at Byron-Bergen, Yohon participated in Varsity Cheerleading, Gymnastics, Swim Team, and Track. In her time on the Byron-Bergen Leroy swim team, she set three new team records and won countless events. Her fastest event times include the 100 Butterfly (1:05.5), 50 Freestyle (25.98), 100 Freestyle (58.76), and 50 Butterfly (27.50).
“I would like to thank both of my coaches, Fix and Stockwell, and my teammates for really helping me in the pool setting and making me the swimmer I am today,” said Yohon. “In addition, I want to thank my parents for helping me succeed and achieve my goals.”
Yohon plans to enter GCC’s Health Studies program with the intent of a career in nursing.
When the new $6.3 billion data center was recently announced at STAMP in the town of Alabama it was hailed as an economic boon to Genesee County and rightly so.
What should not be overlooked though have been the various benefits to the residents and taxpayers in the town of Alabama since the inception of STAMP twenty years ago.
This is due to the foresight, leadership and wherewithal of the town Board over the last two decades which continues today.
Town leaders have repeatedly demonstrated decision making and vision in the best interests of the residents and taxpayers pertaining to STAMP. That is what they are elected for, and despite some recent unfounded claims and accusations, PILOT payments to the town to date have totaled almost $665,000. The town leadership has been steadfast in their support of STAMP.
From a public health perspective, the infrastructure investments at STAMP have significantly enhanced access to public drinking water in the town. This is a very serious public health issue in rural communities across the GLOW region and upstate New York for that matter, but particularly for Alabama because of its unique geography as one of the highest points in the county which poses engineering challenges.
The build-out of water infrastructure at STAMP through the support of New York State resulted in Phase 1 and 2 of the town’s $12 million water project to be completed. With these phases completed the town was able to do Phase 3 on its own and now approximately 94% of town residents have access to an abundant supply of safe, clean drinking water. Those water lines also provide access to clean drinking water for the Tonawanda Seneca Nation and the town has reached out to them but have not heard back yet.
Another aspect to public health and quality of life as a result of STAMP are going to enable the town to plan for investments to modernize town hall, the town’s fire department and its emergency services facility.
From an economic development standpoint, STAMP is poised to create several hundred jobs in the near term as Edwards Vacuum nears Phase 1 completion of its state-of-the-art manufacturing facility to support the fledgling semiconductor industry.
Edwards Vacuum’s $127 million Phase 1 investment will create 280 new jobs. Ultimately the company will invest $212 million and create approximately 350 jobs while generating approximately $644 million in economic impact, including payroll.
This figure also includes future revenues to local governments, including the town of Alabama. The fact is that the current two projects at STAMP are providing tax payments to the town at a rate 50 times more than if the property remained undeveloped farmland.
A familiar refrain in the business sector is that economic development is a marathon and not a sprint. STAMP is the epitome of this mantra and that is why over the long term, STAMP has the potential to create several thousands of jobs as a result of a robust pipeline of companies interested in the site.
What this means to the town of Alabama is continued growth, financial investment and opportunities for generations of residents to come.
Mark Masse is president and CEO of the Genesee County Economic Development Center.
NOW HIRING seasonal agribusiness positions. CDL A & B Drivers to deliver bulk crop nutrients. Potential long-term opportunities. Great for retirees! GENERAL LABOR positions. Daily variety of indoor/outdoor responsibilities. Loader experience a plus. SIGN-ON BONUS and plenty of OT during spring/summer months. Apply in person at: 8610 Route 237, Stafford, NY www.cecrocker.com
