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.

Press Release:

The Batavia Muckdogs are excited to announce their next five signings of the 2025 season.

Batavia will welcome back two returners, two western New Yorkers, & a new face this summer. 2024 Returners RHP – Garret Beaver and C/OF -Cooper Romich, Batavia Native, RHP – Jaden Sherwood, North Tonawanda Native, LHP – Jake Szlis & RHP -Cole Taylor join the Dogs this summer at Dwyer Stadium. 

Garrett Beaver returns to the Muckdogs for his third season, bringing veteran leadership and a dominant presence on the mound. The 6’3 right-handed pitcher from Waynesboro PA, is currently a junior at Salisbury University. Over the past two summers with Batavia, Beaver posted an outstanding 1.075 ERA. During the 2024 season with the Sea Gulls, he earned All-C2C Honorable mention, finishing 3rd in saves, and ranking 10 th in both strikeouts and wins. 

Cooper Romich returns for his second season with the Muckdogs after a strong summer showing in 2024. A versatile catcher and outfielder, the 5’10 sophomore from North Chili, is currently playing at Le Moyne. Last summer, Romich appeared in 40 games with Batavia, posting a solid .276 batting average and driving in 34 runs.

Jaden Sherwood is a 6’0 right-handed pitcher from Monroe Community College. A native of Batavia, Sherwood comes home for his first season with the Muckdogs this summer. Sherwood has struck out 15 batters in 14 innings this season with the Monroe Tribunes, showcasing his excellent abilities. 

Jake Szlis is a 6’5 left-handed pitcher from Alfred State University. From North Tonawanda, Szlis was dominant for the North Tonawanda High School Lumberjacks, pitching to a minuscule 1.04 ERA over 67.1 innings, striking out 99 batters.

Cole Taylor is a 5’11 freshman right-handed pitcher from Spring Hill, TN. A student at Columbia State Community College, Taylor is yet to allow a run this season. He recorded his first career collegiate hit and RBI on February 25.

Opening Day is Saturday, May 31 at 6:30 p.m. vs the Elmira Pioneers with free post-game fireworks. If you know someone who has an interest in sponsoring the Muckdogs, season ticket information, hosting a group event, or picnic, please contact General Manager Marc Witt (mwitt.canusa@gmail.com). The Muckdogs full schedule is available online at www.canusamuckdogs.com. 

Submitted photos.

The YWCA of Genesee County honored its 2025 Women of Distinction on Saturday afternoon with a luncheon at Terry Hills.

This year's honorees, in photo from left:

• Mary Kate Hoffman, recognized for her role in inspiration, superintendent of Pavilion Central School.
• Lucy Sackett, recognized for her leadership in education, a community volunteer with a passion for teaching young people to swim, and currently a volunteer at Crossroads House.
• Leadership Genesee Book Club, represented by Brenda Lee Heinemann, Laurie Mastin, Barb Shine, and Donna Morill
• Karyn Winters, recognized for her role in leadership in education and business as director of the Genesee County Business Education Alliance
• Dr. Emily Fraser-Branche (not pictured), recognized as an entrepreneur as owner and founder of Three Little Birds Pediatrics.

The awards are bestowed as a tribute to women who are "shaping the future with vision, strength, and purpose." 

The keynote speaker was Linda Dynel, author of Leaving Dorian: A Memoir of Hope, which deals with intimate partner violence. 

For more on the winners, click here.

Batavia High School hosted its annual track and field invitation at Van Detta Stadium on Saturday, and 28 schools from throughout the region participated.

The Blue Devils won the meet in both Boys and Girls divisions.

Top three for the Girls:

• Batavia, 133 points
• Niagara-Wheatfield, 89
• Webster Schroeder, 66

Top three for the Boys:

• Batavia, 107 points
• Niagara-Wheatfield, 85
• Kenmore, 82

For full results, click here.

Top performances for the Batavia girls:

• Karizma Wescott won the 100m (12.57), won the 200m(26.05), and was on the winning 4x100m (49.50) and winning 4x400m (4:12.56) relays!!
• Ella Shamp won the Long Jump with 17' 7" and won the High Jump with 4' 10" and was also on the winning 4x100m relay.
• Adi O'Donnell was on the winning 4x100m relay, 4x400m relay, and placed 2nd in the 200m (26.58)
• Campbell Riley placed 2nd in the 400m (61.43), 2nd in the 800m (2:26.43), was on the 4x800m team that placed 2nd (9:57.08) and anchored the winning 4x400m relay team
• The relays mentioned above are 4x100m (Ady O'Donnell, Nevaeh Thomas, Ella Shamp, Karizma Wescott)  4x400m (Ava Anderson, Ady O'Donnell, Karizma Wescott, Campbell Riley), 4x800 (Mallory Boyce, Amelia Tripp, Jenna Higgins, Campbell Riley)
• Batavia also won the freshman-sophomore sprint medley relay (Mallory Boyce, Natalie Battaglia, Nevaeh Thomas, Sophia Lawrence) with a time of 4:40.15.
• Mady Smith placed 2nd in the 100m Hurdles (15.24)
• Ava Wierda placed 2nd in the shot put (33' 9.5")

• Sheldon Siverling won both the shot put(58'8") and the discus (170'1").
• Karvel Martino 2nd shot (53'9") and 3rd in the discus (134'2").
• Cameron Garofalo won the 1600m (4:30.23), placed 4th in the 800m (204.89), was on the 4x800m relay team that placed 2nd (8:23.19) with teammates En'hazje Carter, Grant Gahagan, and Jamari Irvin.
• Justin Smith won the high jump (6'2"), Grant Gahagan placed 2nd in the high jump (5'10")
• Isaic Varland won the 200m (23.46)
• Greyson Betances placed 2nd in the pole vault (10'6")
• The freshman-sophomore sprint medley team, consisting of Enhazje Carter, Jamere Reeves, Greyson Betances, and Keagan Calmes placed 2nd (4:00.25)

Genesee Community College hosted its 44th Annual Fashion Show on Saturday in the Richard C. Call Arena.

Presented by GCC’s Fashion Business Program, Masterpiece Unfolding, offers students an opportunity showcase their creativity, talent, and innovative spirit. 

This year's show drew its inspiration from the world of fine art with each scene interpreting the elements and spirit of a specific art movement through fashion.

Photos courtesy Genesee Community College

President Danielle Torcello, along with committee chair Vicki Wolak and her team of Susan Boyle, Brenda Bennion and Diane Fioentino, awarded 13 scholarships to Genesee County students from various high schools.  Each student was presented with an award certificate and received a thousand-dollar scholarship. They are:

• Allison Pullybank, LeRoy, Nursing
• Ava Anderson, Batavia, Journalism/Marketing
• Emily Yager, Pembroke, Music Education
• Emily Pietrzykowski, Alexander, Nursing
• Grace Nickerson, LeRoy, English / Psychology
• Kaitlin Kratz, Notre Dame, Nursing
• Kelsey Kirkwood, Batavia, Biology
• Lillian Szymkowiak, Alexander, Biology
• Molly Osterman, LeRoy, Law/Political Science
• Norah Manurung, Pavilion, Social Media Marketing
• Piper Hyde, Oakfield-Alabama, Nursing
• Rose Wilson, Byron Bergen, Nursing
• Anna Panepento, Notre-Dame, Biomedical Engineering
• Sue Sherman, All Babies Cherished
• Jennifer Schaffer, Crossroads House
• Frances McNaulty, Genesee Senior Living and Office of the Aging
• Susan Maniace, Liv Luv Breathe
• Carl Hyde Jr., Western New York Cemetery Honor Guard

Alex Doty, LeRoy, Business Management, was presented the Jill Spence Memorial Scholarship Fund award.

Vicki Wolak, committee chair, and her team of Susan Boyle, Brenda Bennion and Diane Fioentino presented service awards to the following non-profit organizations in Genesee County. Each received a check for $400.

Joy Hume received the 2024 Woman of the Year award. 

To view or purchase photos, click here.

Press Release:

Tops Friendly Markets has promoted Stanley Alexander to the position of Grocery General Manager. He previously held the title of Grocery Supervisor, a role he held for four and a half years.

In his new role, Stanley will be responsible for all grocery department functions, including shipping, receiving, auditing, safety, sanitation and KPI metrics. He joined Tops in 2020 as a Grocery Supervisor.

Stanley resides in Batavia with his wife Katie and their five children.

Press Release:

Byron-Bergen second-grade students were invited to participate in the Arbor Day poster design contest in partnership with Genesee County Soil & Water Conservation. The purpose of the contest is to highlight the importance of trees and for students to gain an understanding of the effect trees have on the environment. This year's theme, "Trees are Superheroes", inspired participation from second-grade students throughout Genesee County. 

The contest winner was Byron-Bergen student Malia Hillabush. The winning poster was announced on April 24 by special guests Laura Bestehorn and Jared Elliott from Genesee County Soil & Water Conservation. Malia was very happy to have her creative poster chosen.

"Arbor Day is a special day to reflect on trees and all they do for us and our environment. They truly are real-life superheroes." said Elementary Math Intervention Specialist Lara Ezard. 

Malia’s poster will be on display at the Genesee County Fair and will be highlighted in the GCSWC newsletter. All Byron-Bergen posters entries are displayed at the Elementary's front foyer to show all the elementary students about trees’ superpowers. Each Byron-Bergen second-grade student who entered the poster contest received a sapling to plant at home.

Press Release:

Beginning in October of this 24/25 school year, St. Paul Lutheran School, has had the privilege of partnering with Genesee Community College (GCC) Physical Education Department. G.C.C. students have worked with the St. Paul students to provide instruction for the Kindergarten through 6th Grades. 

The freshman and sophomore students, under the direction of the Director/Professor of the Health and Physical Education Department, Rebecca Dzieken, and Krystal Forsyth, Instructor, Health and Physical Education Department, have planned the curriculum for the year. 

Throughout the year they led classes in soccer, basketball, team building games, volleyball and exercise
fundamentals. On Friday, May 2 they planned to lead the St. Paul students through the experience of a Field Day. The G.C.C. students had planned six different stations that will challenge the St. Paul students. 

The G.C.C. students include Evan Frier, Cayden Lilleby, Cody Costello, Aaron Birkby, Ryan Winters, Saunders Mireault and Michael Hayes. The G.C.C. Physical Education class have done an amazing job interacting with the St. Paul students.

Submitted photos.

Press release:

Veteran Buffalo sportscaster Paul Peck, a familiar face to the bowling community through his commentator role on the Beat the Champ television show, will be the guest speaker at the Genesee Region USBC Annual Banquet on May 10 at Batavia Downs Gaming.

The buffet dinner gets underway at 6 p.m. at the Genesee Banquet Room on the second floor of the Park Road facility.

Strikes and Spares. Touchdowns and Sacks. Slam Dunks and Three Pointers. They’ve all been a part of Peck’s 36 years in front of the camera.

For the last 25 years, he’s called University at Buffalo football and basketball on radio and TV as the “Voice of the Bulls.” In 2024, he reached a significant milestone, calling his 300th UB football game on the Bulls Radio Network.

Last fall, Peck joined Buffalo Bowling Hall of Famer Sue Nawojski in the revival of the long-running Beat the Champ bowling competition show. The show just finished recording its debut season on the MSG Network, with a second season coming in the fall of 2025.

For this past Buffalo Bills season, Peck was a part of ESPN Radio’s national coverage as sideline reporter for the broadcasts from Highmark Stadium.

He previously served as sports anchor, reporter, and producer at WIVB-TV (CBS) for 24 years. In that role, he covered all four Buffalo Bills Super Bowls, the Buffalo Sabres in the Stanley Cup Finals, the NCAA Basketball Tournament and the Daytona 500.

For 10 years, he served as the radio sideline reporter and host for the Buffalo Bills Football Network. Peck also has been the Master of Ceremonies for the Greater Buffalo Sports Hall of Fame, one of the largest sports banquets in Western New York.

The GRUSBC previously announced that Scott Culp of Honeoye Falls and Darwin “Auggie” Dale of Piffard will be inducted into the association’s Hall of Fame.

Tickets for the dinner are $40 per person. Reservations close on Saturday (May 3). To purchase a ticket, email mikep@bowlgr.com or calling 585-861-0404. For more information, go to www.bowlgr.com.

Press release:

As of May 3, 2025, Route 5 between Kelsey Road and Lewiston Road (Route 63) is reopened to public travel, and the surrounding area is considered safe. However, an investigation into the fire remains ongoing, and crews will continue work at the site in the days ahead.

Operations at the Genesee County Jail and Animal Shelter have returned to normal, and County Building Two will reopen to the public on Monday.

The Genesee County Office of Emergency Management sincerely thanks the community for their cooperation and patience, and extends deep appreciation to the fire departments, emergency responders, and law enforcement agencies involved in the response.