The Genesee Chorale will sing its "greatest hits" from its first 20 seasons in a concert on May 18 called Reflections.

The Chorale will highlight chorale-member favorites at St. James Episcopal Church, 405 East Main St., Batavia, at 4 p.m.

The song selection surveys a range of styles and genres, including pop, classical, sacred, spiritual, and folk music. 

"We are really thrilled at how beautiful this concert is shaping up to be," said member Caryn Wood.

For tickets, click here.

Photos by Howard Owens.

The Kentucky Derby proved to be solid business for Batavia Downs on Saturday, with increases in revenue and attendances, said Ryan Hasenauer, vp of business development for WROTB.

More than a thousand people visited the Park Place event center over the course of the day, and more than 250 attended the Derby Gala in the Clubhouse.

Press Release:

Genesee County Sheriff Joseph M. Graff and his staff were honored at a meeting of the Genesee County Legislature for having achieved reaccreditation of the Sheriff’s Civil Office and the County 9-1-1 Emergency Services Dispatch Center from the New York State Sheriffs’ Association. 

Tom Mitchell, NYS Sheriffs’ Association Accreditation Program Director, presented the accreditation plaques and pointed out that only 31 of the state’s 62 counties have been able to achieve accreditation of their civil office and only 16 counties maintain an accredited communications center. There are 121 standards for Civil and 100 standards for the 9-1-1 center that are required to be met. During the accreditation reviews, assessors usually spend a couple of days at a sheriff’s office to make sure it’s complying with all the standards. Accreditation is for a five-year period and may be renewed indefinitely, as long as the agency continues to meet the established standards.

Special recognition was given to Deborah A. Shea, Principal Financial Clerk in the Sheriff’s Civil Office, and to Robert H. Tripp, Senior Emergency Services Dispatcher, for their work in guiding the re-accreditation effort in their respective divisions.

Press Release:

The Batavia Police Department is committed to creating a safe and respectful environment for all members of our community, both online and offline. As we increasingly rely on digital platforms to connect with one another, it's essential that we address the growing concern of cyberbullying. 

Cyberbullying is the use of technology to harass, intimidate, or threaten someone, often anonymously. It can take many forms, including mean or hurtful messages, emails, or posts on social media, as well as the sharing of personal or embarrassing information about someone without their consent. 

The effects of cyberbullying can be devastating, leading to feelings of isolation, anxiety, and low self-esteem. It's crucial that we take a stand against this behavior and promote a culture of kindness, empathy, and respect online. 

So, what can you do to help prevent cyberbullying? 

• Think before you post: Consider the potential impact of your words on others before sharing them online.
• Be kind and respectful: Treat others the way you want to be treated, both online and offline.
• Report suspicious behavior: If you witness or experience cyberbullying, report it to the appropriate authorities, such as school administrators or law enforcement.
• Support the victim: Reach out to those who may be affected by cyberbullying and offer your support and friendship. 

Together, we can create a safer and more compassionate online community. Remember, our words have power, and it's up to each of us to use them responsibly. 

If you or someone you know is a victim of cyberbullying, please don't hesitate to reach out to the Batavia Police Department or a trusted adult for help and support. Let's work together to create a bully-free online environment!

Previously: Farm workers union organizes protest at federal facility in Batavia after 14 migrant workers detained

In response to a story The Batavian published on Saturday, link above, and was republished by OrleansHub, Lynn-Ette & Sons, the employer of a group of migrants who were taken into custody on Friday morning, issued the following statement:

Lynn-Ette & Sons is heartbroken by the recent Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) action that resulted in the detention of 14 long-standing farm employees.

These individuals are not only vital contributors to our operations but valued members of our extended farm family—many of whom have worked alongside us for years with commitment and integrity.

We are deeply troubled by the manner in which this enforcement action was carried out and the impact it has had on our team and their families. Lynn-Ette & Sons had no prior knowledge of the raid and had no contact with ICE beforehand.

We strongly reject the United Farm Workers’ (UFW) irresponsible and self-serving public claims suggesting that these workers were targeted in retaliation for union activity. These claims are categorically false.

None of the individuals detained were part of the bargaining unit involved in the ongoing union activity on our farm. To insinuate otherwise is not only misleading but irresponsibly politicizes a painful and personal situation for the workers and their loved ones.

Lynn-Ette & Sons remains committed to the fair and respectful treatment of all our employees. We are cooperating fully with legal counsel to better understand the circumstances and to assist the affected individuals and their families where possible.

We call on elected officials and community leaders to ensure that all enforcement actions are conducted with transparency, due process, and human dignity.

UPDATE: In response, UFW issued the following statement:

In response to Lynn-Ette & Sons statement published on this website, Armando Elenes, Secretary Treasurer of the United Farm Workers, issued the following statement.

"There is in fact a bargaining unit at Lynn-Ette farm which covers seasonal workers — as Lynn-Ette is aware, an arbitrator has already been appointed by the State of New York following Lynn-Ette’s failure to negotiate a union contract for them in good faith and we are waiting for the arbitrator to issue their decision. 

It is true that the workers who were detained last Friday are not part of the current bargaining unit. This is because Lynn-Ette itself successfully argued that its year-round workers should be excluded from the unit. At the time, we argued strongly that year-round workers should be included in the same bargaining unit as their seasonal coworkers.

Given that exclusion, several year-round workers were continuing to organize to file a petition for a separate bargaining unit that would negotiate a contract for the year-round workers. Several of the workers who were leading that effort have now been detained by ICE. 

We do now know that ICE came to target the bus as a result of a tip. We demand that ICE be fully transparent about how and why and based on what information these arrests were made, including to the members of Congress who are inquiring about this very issue. 

If workers at any company were to be targeted for immigration enforcement for union organizing, that would be a violation of our Constitution's First Amendment; the right to freedom of association including with your union. Everyone should be concerned about that."

All Babies Cherished Pregnancy Assistance Center would like to invite you to join us for a morning of fitness and support! We will be holding our ninth annual Run Baby Run 5K benefit event to raise money for the powerful and fulfilling work that we do, supporting young mothers, working hard to raise their precious babies during difficult financial times!

Lace up your sneakers and gather all of your friends to join you!  Runners and Walkers are All Welcome!!!  Prizes for top runners in 5 age categories, both male and female. Timing by Spirit Timing! Can’t wit to see you there!!

NEW: Deal of the Day Bundle, Family Fun Downtown!! This special will be included at random in Deal of the Day posts during May. There are only four packages available. Members of Early Access Pass have exclusive access to the Deal of the Day during the first four hours the post is available. To join Early Access Pass, click here. For a discount on EAP, use the promo code SUMMER2025.

Press Release:

As we go about our daily lives, it's easy to overlook the importance of crosswalk safety. However, the reality is that pedestrian-vehicle collisions can have devastating consequences. The Batavia Police Department wants to remind everyone that crosswalk safety is a shared responsibility between pedestrians, drivers, and cyclists. 

Pedestrians: When crossing any street, make sure to: 

• Follow traffic signals and pedestrian signs when present
• Make eye contact with drivers before crossing
• Stay alert and avoid distractions like using your phone
• Use marked crosswalks, especially at intersections and designated areas 

Drivers: When approaching crosswalks, remember to: 

• Slow down and be prepared to stop
• Yield to pedestrians in crosswalks
• Avoid distractions like using your phone while driving
• Be cautious when turning at intersections 

Cyclists: When approaching crosswalks, remember to:

• Follow the same traffic laws as motorists
• Yield to pedestrians in crosswalks Use designated bike lanes and paths
• Be visible and alert to surrounding traffic 

By working together, we can reduce the risk of accidents and ensure a safer community for everyone. Remember, crosswalk safety is a shared responsibility, and every individual plays a crucial role in preventing pedestrian-vehicle collisions. 

Stay safe, Batavia!

Press Release:

Assemblyman Steve Hawley (R,C-Batavia) is announcing this year’s Patriot Trip to Washington, D.C. The trip will run from September 18 to 21 and is open to local veterans and their families. Participants will get a tour of the nation’s capital and its numerous monuments and landmarks that honor those who served. This year’s trip will feature stops at several notable locations in the D.C. area, including the WWII, Korean and Vietnam War memorials and Arlington National Cemetery. Hawley is hoping to schedule a visit to the White House as well.

“This trip is an excellent opportunity to honor not only our local veterans but also those who served before them,” said Hawley. “I am incredibly excited to host this event for another year. We owe our veterans a deep level of gratitude for all they have sacrificed for the freedoms we enjoy in this country, so being able to take them to our nation’s capital to see these historic landmarks is truly an honor.”

Due to the many generous donations from the community, local businesses and organizations, we are expecting the cost to be $450-$500 per person with everything included. Registration by June 13 is required for those interested in a White House tour for the purpose of a background check. To register, contact Hawley’s office at 585-589-5780 or email hawleys@nyassembly.gov for more details.

For those who wish to donate to support this event, please make your donation out to Patriot Trip and send it to PO Box 171, Albion.

Press Release:

The New York State Thruway Authority announced work has resumed on a $36.8 million pavement improvement project on the New York State Thruway (I-90) in Monroe and Genesee Counties. The project began last summer and includes nearly 54 miles between exit 45 (Rochester - Victor - I-490) and exit 47 (Rochester - Le Roy - I-490 - NY Route 19), eastbound and westbound.

Thruway Authority Executive Director Frank G. Hoare, Esq. said, “This project serves as yet another example of how we’re reinvesting toll revenue to modernize our infrastructure across the Thruway system. This stretch of I-90 is vital to local communities, businesses and travelers. This work will enhance the safety and reliability of the roadway for all who use it.”

The project covers approximately 108 lane miles and includes full and partial depth repairs to restore deteriorating portions of the roadway and a new asphalt riding surface. Crews are also resurfacing the interchange ramps at exit 46, all U-turns, the parking area at milepost 353.1 eastbound, and the Ontario and Scottsville Service Areas.

Additional safety improvements include increased vertical clearance to enhance safety and mitigate bridge strikes caused by overheight vehicles, installation of rumble strips, and upgraded drainage. New mile markers are also being installed.

Work will take place primarily overnight to lessen the impact on traffic.

Sealand Contractors Corporation from Rush is the project contractor. The project is expected to be completed by the end of the year.

Motorists are urged to be alert and follow the posted work zone speed limits. Fines are doubled for speeding in a work zone.

Governor Hochul signed legislation establishing the Automated Work Zone Speed Enforcement pilot program to further enhance safety for workers in a work zone. The safety enforcement program began in April 2023 and is in effect in various active construction zones on the Thruway. Work zones with speed camera enforcement will have clear signage leading up to the work zone. Motorists violating the posted speed limit within the work zone will be fined. Violation fines will be issued to the vehicle’s registered owner by mail. More information on the program can be found here.

For up-to-date travel information, motorists are encouraged to download the Thruway Authority’s mobile app, which is available for free on iPhone and Android devices. The app provides motorists with direct access to real-time traffic and navigation assistance while on the go.

Travelers can also visit the Thruway Authority’s interactive Traveler Map, which features live traffic cameras. Motorists can also sign up for TRANSalert emails, which provide the latest traffic conditions on the Thruway.

Press Release:

Starting May 7, the federal government will enforce the REAL ID Act. On that date, you’ll need a REAL ID, Enhanced Driver License (or permit/non-driver ID) or U.S. Passport to board a domestic flight or enter certain federal buildings. The Genesee County DMV wants residents to be fully prepared and avoid last-minute surprises.

To help clarify what’s required—and what isn’t—here are answers to some of the most common questions:

1. Do I need a REAL ID if I already have a passport or an Enhanced Driver's License/Permit/Non-Driver ID?
   1. No. A valid U.S. Passport or Enhanced Driver's License/Permit/Non-Driver ID already meets federal requirements. If you have either, you are already covered and do not need a REAL ID.
2. Is May 7, a deadline to get a REAL ID?
   1. Not quite. May 7 is not a deadline, but the date enforcement begins. From that point forward, standard (non-REAL ID) licenses will no longer be accepted for domestic air travel or entry to certain federal buildings. If you don’t plan to fly or enter federal facilities, you may not need a REAL ID at all.
3. What documents do I need to get a REAL ID or Enhanced ID?
   • You must bring original documentation from each of these categories:
     • Proof of Citizenship or Lawful Status
       • e.g., U.S. Birth Certificate, Valid U.S. Passport, or Permanent Resident Card
     • Proof of Identity
       • e.g., Current NYS issued document or DMV’s 6-point ID system (form ID-44)
     • Proof of Social Security Enrollment
       • e.g., Social Security Card, W-2, 1099, or pay stub (issued within 1 year with full SSN)
     • Two Proofs of NYS Residency
       • e.g., Utility bill, bank statement, mortgage deed, lease, or government-issued documents (must be from different sources and issued within one year)
     • If your legal name has changed (due to marriage, divorce, or other reason), you must bring certified proof of each name change, such as marriage certificates, divorce decrees, or court orders.
   • Photocopies will not be accepted. Only original or certified documents are valid.
4. Who made this requirement?
   • The REAL ID Act is a federal law enacted by Congress to standardize identification nationwide. The Genesee County DMV is here to help citizens meet the requirement, but did not create the requirement.
5. What can I do to speed up my DMV visit?
   • The Genesee County DMV has been very busy as more residents prepare for the May 7 enforcement. To make the process easier:
     • Double-check your documents in advance
     • Bring original paperwork—no copies
     • Use our checklist to avoid surprises

Download a helpful document from the Genesee County DMV here: https://qrco.de/bfnU6u. 

Press Release:

As a young person, the internet is an amazing tool that can connect you with friends, family, and a world of information. However, it's essential to remember that the online world can also pose risks to your safety and privacy. 

Here are some important tips to help you stay safe online: 

Be cautious with personal information: Never share your name, address, phone number, or passwords with strangers online. This information is private and should only be shared with people you trust. 

Think before you post: Remember that anything you post online can be seen by others, including friends, family, and even strangers. Be careful what you share, and avoid posting anything that could put you or others at risk. 

Be kind online: Treat others the way you want to be treated. Be respectful and kind in your online interactions, and avoid engaging in cyberbullying or mean behavior. 

Verify information: Not everything you read online is true. Be cautious of fake news and misinformation, and verify information through trusted sources before sharing it. 

Tell a trusted adult: If you encounter something online that makes you feel uncomfortable or unsafe, tell a trusted adult, such as a parent, teacher, or counselor. They can help you navigate the situation and keep you safe. 

By following these simple tips, you can help protect yourself and others from online risks and have a safe and enjoyable online experience. 

Remember, online safety is everyone's responsibility. Let's work together to create a safe and respectful online community! 

If you or someone you know is experiencing online harassment or exploitation, report it to a trusted adult or authority figure. You can also reach out to organizations such as the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC) or the CyberTipline for help and support. 

Stay safe online, and let's make the internet a better place for everyone!

Press Release:

The Genesee County Master Gardeners will be hosting their annual Spring Garden Gala on Saturday, May 17, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., rain or shine. The annual event will be held on the grounds of the Cornell Cooperative Extension of Genesee County, 420 East Main Street, Batavia.

This annual plant sale features a variety of perennials, many of which are from the gardens of Master Gardeners. There will also be a selection of house plants. The plant sale starts promptly at 10 a.m. No early birds, please.

Visit the Basket Auction for a variety of themed baskets. The Basket Auction runs from 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Winners will be notified on Monday after the Gala. Gently used garden books will also be for sale.

Check out our garden shed sale! We’ll have an assortment of gently used or maybe never used gardening items such as containers, tools, signs, and garden decor. This will be set up in the parking lot area near the garden shed.

Bring in a soil sample from your garden or lawn for a free pH test. (A half-cup sample of your garden soil in a clean plastic container is plenty.) Master Gardeners will also be available to answer your gardening questions.

Don’t miss your chance to pick up some great plants at great prices. Arrive at 10 a.m. for the best plant selection. Proceeds from the sale benefit the educational outreach of the Genesee County Master Gardener Program.

For more information contact Cornell Cooperative Extension of Genesee County, 585-343-3040, ext. 101, or stop by the Extension office at 420 East Main Street in Batavia. Visit our website at: http://genesee.cce.cornell.edu/events for more information. Like us on our Facebook page for Gala and Master Gardener program updates: https://www.facebook.com/CCEofGenesee. 

Press Release:

Two projects submitted to the Genesee County Economic Development Center are projected to generate $5.8 million in community benefits.

The Genesee County Economic Development Center (GCEDC) board of directors will consider an initial resolution at its May 1 meeting for Ivy Village Corp’s proposed second phase construction of 20 units of market-rate adult patio homes in the Village of Le Roy. The first phase included the construction of 10 market-rate senior housing duplexes.

The proposed addition of 20 units of market-rate patio homes would add 24,960 sq. ft in the second phase of a three-phase, 60-unit development on 16 acres. The first phase added 35,312 sq. ft of new buildings for a combined construction of 60,272 sq. ft. The project is investing $3.5 million for the second phase.

Ivy Village Corp is requesting a sales tax exemption estimated at $168,000, a mortgage tax exemption estimated at $28,000, and a property tax abatement estimated at $669,440 based on the incremental increase in assessed value via a 20-year PILOT. The project is estimated to generate $2.7 million in local fiscal impacts, including payroll and tax revenues, for an estimated $4 local benefit for every $1 of requested incentives.

If the proposed project application is advanced, a public hearing will be scheduled in the Village of Le Roy.

The GCEDC board of directors will also consider a final resolution for Appletree Acres, LLC. The company is proposing to add a 20,000 square-foot expansion to an existing 50,000 square-foot warehouse in the Apple Tree Acres corporate park. A smaller version of the project was previously considered in December 2024.

The $1.237 million investment would create four full-time equivalent positions with an estimated annual salary range between $45,000 and $65,000 plus benefits.

Appletree Acres, LLC is requesting a sales tax exemption estimated at $58,800 and a property tax abatement estimated at $213,336 based on the incremental increase in assessed value generated by the expansion. The project is estimated to generate $3.1 million in local fiscal impacts, including payroll and tax revenues, for an estimated $14 local benefit for every $1 of requested incentives.

The GCEDC board meeting will be on Thursday, May 1, at 4 p.m. at the MedTech Center’s Innovation Zone, 99 MedTech Drive, Batavia.

Meeting materials and links to a live stream/on-demand recording of the meeting are available at www.gcedc.com.

Press Release:

In February, Jennifer Howland received the heartbreaking diagnosis of stage 4 pancreatic cancer. Her battle ended Easter Sunday.

Jen was a devoted mother, grandmother, and cherished member of our community. Jen faced this arduous journey with strength, grace, and resilience. While her time with us was far too short, her love, warmth, and kindness touched the lives of so many, and her memory will continue to live on in our hearts.

To honor Jen’s life and support her family during this time, we will be holding a Benefit Event to celebrate her Life and to help ease the financial burdens left by her illness and treatments.

You’re invited to join us on May 31 from 12 to 6 p.m. for a fun-filled day the whole family will enjoy! It will be held at the Bethany Firehall located at 10510 Bethany Center Rd, East Bethany. 

Savor delicious poutine from Buckaroos Food Truck and treat yourself to a sweet dessert from Ice Cream & Chill. Don’t miss your chance to bid on autographed memorabilia from the Buffalo Bills, Buffalo Sabres, and Rochester Red Wings.

We’ll also have a wide variety of raffle baskets, generously donated by local businesses and supporters, and a great selection of vendors for your shopping pleasure.

Mark your calendar and come enjoy food, fun, and fantastic finds—all in support of a great cause!

Press Release:

The Byron-Bergen Bees made history on Saturday by capturing the title in the first-ever Byron-Bergen Spring Softball Classic, held on their home field. In a high-scoring championship game, the Bees defeated the Perry Yellow Jackets by a final score of 20–13 to become the tournament’s inaugural champions.

The victory capped off a dominant day for Byron-Bergen, who opened the tournament with a statement win—27–7 over Red Jacket—in the semifinal round. Perry reached the final with a more defensive 4–1 win over Barker, setting up an exciting championship matchup.

In the third-place game, Barker rebounded from its semifinal loss to defeat Red Jacket, 18–1.

The Bees came out swinging in the championship game, exploding for 10 runs in the first inning and never looking back. Byron-Bergen’s offense was relentless throughout the day, combining patience at the plate, aggressive baserunning, and clutch hitting to pile on runs early and often.

Several players shined offensively for Byron-Bergen during the tournament:

Natalie Prinzi was electric at the plate, going 7-for-8 across both games. Her performance included two doubles, a triple, five RBIs, two walks, and six stolen bases.

Janessa Amesbury showcased her speed and plate discipline, finishing 4-for-6 with four RBIs, four walks, and nine stolen bases.

Lily Stalica, who also pitched both games, contributed a strong day at the plate as well, going 3-for-6 with six RBIs, four walks, and two stolen bases.

Lauren Gartz continued the offensive barrage, batting 4-for-8 with a double, eight RBIs, three walks, and five steals.

Ella Lewis added to the Bees’ run production, collecting three hits in six at-bats, including a double and four RBIs.

On the mound, Lily Stalica took the ball for both games and was credited with both wins. She pitched through heavy offensive matchups, striking out four batters, walking six, and giving up 12 earned runs across two games. Her ability to hold opponents in check and bounce back from occasional defensive errors helped preserve Byron-Bergen’s momentum throughout the tournament.

For her all-around performance, Stalica was named the Tournament MVP.

Following the final out, head coach Steve Ball was full of praise for his team’s effort and perseverance:

“I can’t say how proud I am of these girls,” Ball said. “We had a tough game earlier this week against Oakfield, and it would’ve been easy to let that shake our confidence. But they came to practice, worked hard, and the results showed today. This was a full team effort—from offense, to defense, to support on the bench. To come out on top in the first year of our tournament, on our home field, in front of our fans—it’s just really special,” Ball added. “This is something these girls will always remember.”

Coach Ball also complimented the Perry Yellow Jackets for their sportsmanship and effort:

“That Perry team is well-coached and talented. We knew it wasn’t going to be easy, even with the big lead. They fought hard and made us earn it.”

Despite weather challenges earlier in the week, the tournament went off smoothly thanks to significant behind-the-scenes efforts. Ball credited the school’s maintenance staff and athletic department for preparing the fields and keeping the schedule on track.

“Big shoutout to the maintenance crew. The weather definitely didn’t make things easy this week, but they worked hard to get the fields ready. I have to thank Robbie Nichols and the Batavia Muckdogs for letting us take their field old tarp, without that tarp this tournament wouldn't have happened today. Also, a thank-you to the coaches and players from Perry, Barker, and Red Jacket for traveling and participating. It means a lot to make this kind of event possible."

Submitted photos.

Press Release:

Iroquois National Wildlife Refuge (NWR) announces plans to conduct up to seven (7) prescribed burns on the Refuge during the 2025 season. The goal this year is to burn up to 175 acres of grasslands. The result will be enhanced grassland nesting cover for a variety of migratory birds and other wildlife. Grassland fields will be burned in the spring or summer (April – August). Each burn should take approximately two to six hours to complete.

Prescribed burns are conducted safely and successfully on National Wildlife Refuges and other public lands aross the country. With prescribed burns, fire becomes a management tool removing accumulated fuel loads thus reducing the risk of wildfire. 

Additionally, fire improves Refuge habitats for wildlife by removing invading plants that compete for light and nutrients and exposing the soil to sunlight so that seeds may germinate and grow. At the same time, it releases nitrogen and other nutrients into the soil to nourish the new plants. 

Specific dates cannot be announced in advance due to specific weather requirements, however, law enforcement and other emergency agencies will be notified on the day of the burn. Before a burn can take place, specific weather and site conditions, including wind direction and speed, humidity, air temperature, and fuel moisture must be present. If any one of these conditions is outside of set parameters, the burn will not take place. Refuge staff have been specially trained to plan, ignite and monitor the fire to ensure public safety. 

For further information contact Wildlife Biologist, Iroquois National Wildlife Refuge, 1101 Casey Road, Basom or call 585-948-5445 ext.7032.

Iroquois NWR is located midway between Buffalo and Rochester and is managed by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.

Press Release:

The Le Roy Police Department is proud to announce the launch of a new Therapy Dog Program. It is welcoming its newest and furriest member, Kronk, a professionally trained therapy dog who will work alongside Officer Krysta Tomaszewski, the department's School Resource Officer, at the Le Roy Jr/Sr High School Campus. 

Kronk and Officer Tomaszewski recently completed specialized training through the Brevard County Sheriff's Office Paws & Stripes College, a nationally recognized program known for its work in pairing therapy dogs with law enforcement officers to support mental health, foster positive relationships, and enhance public safety outreach. 

Chief Gregory Kellogg, who has championed the development of this initiative, emphasized the collaborative effort behind the program. 

Kellogg said, "This has truly been a community effort from the support of our Village Board to the commitment of the Le Roy Central School District. Kronk isn't just here for the students's here for the entire community. We're incredibly proud to bring a program like this to Le Roy." 

The Therapy Dog Program is designed to provide emotional support and comfort in a variety of settings, both in the schools and throughout the broader Le Roy community. Whether helping a student through a difficult day, comforting a victim during a crisis, or connecting with residents at community events, Kronk is trained to be a calming and supportive presence. 

Superintendent Meritt Holly echoed the department's enthusiasm, "The partnership with the Le Roy Police Department continues to grow in meaningful ways. Bringing Kronk into our schools will help us support students' mental health and build trust and positive relationships between young people and law enforcement." 

Program Highlights and Benefits: 

• Provides emotional support to students and community members experiencing stress or trauma.
• Enhances community policing efforts by building positive, approachable connections between officers and residents.
• The mission of the Le Roy Central School District is to provide an exceptional, high quality educational environment where all learners are empowered to succeed.
• Supports mental wellness initiatives at Le Roy CSD and other local institutions.
• Offers comfort and reassurance during times of crisis, both in schools and throughout the Village.  
• Creates additional opportunities for outreach at community events, senior centers, and more. 

Kronk will start his first day on the job on Monday, April 7, and become a regular and beloved presence at Le Roy CSD and will also be available for community visits and events coordinated through the Le Roy Police Department. 

For more information about the Therapy Dog Program, or to request a visit from Kronk, please contact the Le Roy Police Department. 
 

Press Release:

The Jerome Foundation is pleased to announce the establishment of the Martha M. Spinnegan Memorial Nursing Scholarship. The award is given in memory of the late Martha M. Spinnegan, who was a Foundation Trustee for over 30 years and served as the Foundation’s administrator for 15 years. 

Martha contributed greatly to the quality of life in Genesee County, serving as Director of the Richmond Memorial Library for 34 years. She was active in community organizations such as the Rotary Club of Batavia, Go Art, and the Children’s Home Board.

The nursing scholarship is an annual $1000 grant for four years, for a total of $4000, given to a deserving Senior graduating from a Genesee County School who intends to pursue a career in Nursing.

The Jerome Foundation also sponsors the William F. Brown Jr. Scholarship, which is given to a deserving Senior graduating from a Genesee County School who intends to pursue a career in journalism, communication, public relations or marketing. 

Applications for these scholarships have been sent to area High School Counselors or can be found at thejeromefoundation.org. Applications are due Friday, May 9, and can be mailed to The Jerome Foundation, PO Box 249, Batavia. If further information is needed, contact Chris Fix at thejeromefoundation@gmail.com.